#and all though its comforting to see such an important part of my life staring back at me

[xxs0d4p0pxx]

reminiscing.

yearning

[ro-is-struggling]

Safer In His Arms || Geralt of Rivia x Reader

Requested by anon

Summary: Since you were little you always dreamed of meeting a noble and brave knight, falling in love and marrying him to rule your kingdom together until the end of your days. But as you looked around at the men that had come to the banquet to ask for your hand in marriage, it was clear that those dreams were nothing more than a fantasy. Or at least that's what you thought until fate crossed your path with Geralt of Rivia. The witcher, with his hard expression and cold stare, was the last person anyone would describe as warm or chivalrous. But not you. From the moment you met him, you saw nothing but kindness in his eyes. And when he managed to rescue you from the hands of bandits, you knew that maybe there was still some hope that your fantasy could come true —just maybe not in the way you had always imagined. 

Warnings: hurt/comfort, angst, mentions of sexual assault (nothing happens but if it’s triggering for you I wouldn’t read it), protective!geralt, SMUT MINORS DNI, virgin!reader, inexperienced!reader, loss of virginity (not accurate this is just porn!), dirty talk, oral sex (f receiving), penetrative sex, creampie, aftercare, fluff

English is not my first language

Word count: 13500 (not even sorry)

Notes: I don't know why I keep giving every princess I write a sad/tragic story, sorry about that. Also this ended up being way more smutty than I anticipated, sorry about that too (not really). It was supposed to be a fun little hurt/comfort fic about Geralt saving the reader but it developed a mind of its own and ended up being another excuse to write more smut. I tried to make the smut a bit more fluffy than normal since it's supposed to be the reader's first time, but I didn't want it to be too fluffy given that they technically barely know each other, so there's no actual love between them (if that makes sense?). So, sorry if it's a bit all over the place!

The cold breeze of the summer night hit your skin the moment you set foot outside, reminding you that you should have taken a coat. While the days tended to be hot this time of year, once the sun set over the horizon a cool breeze embraced the entire kingdom, courtesy of the ocean forces that surrounded the borders of the land. It was quite peaceful. On a quiet night you loved to sit in the courtyard listening to the waves crashing against the rocks and smelling the scent of the salty water that was carried by the winds and mingled with the sweet perfume of the garden flowers. It seemed to always bring peace to your troubled mind, and that was exactly what you needed right now.

You could still hear the noise coming from inside the castle, though it was slowly getting lost in the sound of the sea. The laughter, the chatter, the joyful music, it all faded into the background as you plopped down on one of the seats in the courtyard, allowing yourself a moment to take a deep breath and let the beauty of your kingdom impart some of the wisdom you so desperately needed. All the guests were there for you —to talk and dance with you, to make unattainable but romantic promises in exchange for your hand in marriage— and yet all you wanted to do was disappear. You were tired of the politics, the diplomacy, tired of feeling the pressure of having to decide the future of your life and your kingdom in one night. The choice of a husband was very important to your parents, to your people and it should be to you too, but all you wanted was for the day to be over.

"I'm glad to see I'm not the only one feeling overwhelmed in there." A deep voice startled you. 

Looking up you were met with a tall man leaning against one of the stone pillars supporting the roof of the covered section of the courtyard. His arms were crossed over his chest, muscles showing through the fabric of his clothes. His white hair hid part of his face, though you could still make out his hard expression and defined jaw. But what caught your attention the most was not the size of his muscles or the fact that the clothes he was wearing seemed too elegant for someone like him. No, what caught your attention the most were the amber eyes that watched you, admiring you from a distance, hiding behind a few rebellious strands of hair. You had never seen such beautiful eyes before. They were piercing, and yet there was a softness in them. Like the sun on a summer afternoon, they shone with an intensity that would have blinded anyone. But you were mesmerized by them, unable to look away. 

"Though I must admit I did not expect to find you here, your highness, given that you are the center of the party."

"I needed some fresh air." You managed to say, forcing yourself to look away from his eyes. "I lost count of the number of men I danced with tonight...I just needed a break."

"That bad, huh?" His lips curved upward slightly, giving his hard expression a softer look. "I suppose if any of them had made a good impression at least you would remember their name."

"It wouldn't matter anyways. My parents have a very strong opinion about the one I should choose." You let out a bitter chuckle. "This banquet is just a formality, a contingency plan.... Give everyone a false sense of hope so they won't attack us for feeling left out."

"I'm sure you still have some sort of control over the whole thing. You're the one getting married after all."

"Since when does a woman's opinion matter when there's wealth and power involved? I'm just a pawn in their political game." Your gaze dropped, focusing on the embroidered details of your dress to avoid facing the intense gaze of the man in front of you. "When I was a girl I used to dream of growing up, meeting a brave and honorable prince and falling in love with him... now I know that feelings come after marriage, if they come at all."

Geralt watched you walk arround the courtyard, your fingers tracing the petals of the flowers that decorated the place without paying much attention to your movements. You had a blank stare and a sad expression adorned your delicate face. He was not a big lover of royalty —he didn't care about politics and didn't like the arrogant tone with which most of them used to speak—, but you were different. When he looked at you he didn't see a spoiled, arrogant princess or a manipulative political figure capable of anything to get their way. He only saw a sad and disillusioned young woman, confused about her future and the responsibility that fell on her shoulders. 

Geralt felt bad for you and had an inexplicable urge to hug you, though he restrained himself. He opted to move closer to you, just took a couple of steps forward and he was already able to breathe in the scent of your perfume. His nostrils were pleasantly assaulted by the sweet scent emanating from your skin and hair. It was special, a blend of jasmine, vanilla and a hint of sea water. It was like nothing he had ever smelled before and he was sure that your scent would linger in his memory for a long time.

"It is still your life." He spoke behind your back and you turned to look at him. He seemed much bigger now that he was closer to you. His figure towered over you imposingly, yet his eyes were soft. "You can always take back your control over it." Your lips curved upward slightly and Geralt thought the smile suited you much better than the grimace of sadness. 

You appreciated his effort to improve your mood. He was a complete stranger who had no reason to listen to your complaints about a life that many considered privileged. And though his words were simple, they accomplished their purpose. You felt so helpless and trapped that you were unable to see that things didn't end there. Yes, you were forced to marry someone you did not love for the sake of your kingdom, but that was not the same as giving up your life, your control and power over it. There was still hope.

"Thank you..." you trailed off, realizing at that moment that you had opened yourself so sincerely to a man whose name you didn't even know. 

But before he could introduce himself, a voice in the distance interrupted you, answering for him.

"Geralt! There you are! I have been looking everywhere for you. You are supposed to protect me, you know."

Geralt let out an irritated sigh as the man you recognized as one of the many musicians hired by your parents to play at the banquet approached you. You had to stifle a chuckle as you realized that rather than escaping the noise of the party, he had come there to get a break from his friend's vibrant and cheerful personality. They were an odd pair, but you had no doubt that there had to be trust between them from the way the bard addresses him.

“I’ve been doing the impossible to hide from Lord Kaius for ages! What the hell were you doing out her–” The artist's complaints were cut short when his eyes finally rested on your figure. "Your highness." He gave a subtle bow, the tone of his voice changing to a lower, more subtle one from one second to the next.

"I'm afraid it's my fault. I was preoccupying your friend with the problems that afflict my mind on this fine evening and he was too kind to interrupt me. He was a great help, but you can take him back now. You clearly need him more than I do."

"Won't you come inside, your highness? You wouldn't want to miss your own party." The bard asked and you smiled at him. 

"In a moment. I'd like to enjoy the peace and fresh air for a while longer."

Geralt didn't know why, but his eyes kept searching for you in the crowd of people dancing and eating like there was no tomorrow. After Jaskier dragged him back to the banquet hall —and after saving him from the fury of the man whose daughter had lost her innocence in the hands of the bard—, he kept his eyes on the big dark wooden doors, waiting to see you enter. But the minutes passed and there was no sign of you anywhere. He hadn't seen you come through the door and he couldn't find you in the crowd of people or see you at the royal table sitting next to your parents. You had disappeared and some people were beginning to notice.

For a moment, Geralt wondered if perhaps his words had encouraged certain behaviors in you. Maybe your way of taking control of your life was to run away from there, leaving your parents, your suitors and your responsibilities behind and start from scratch. He was wondering if perhaps he should go out to look for you, when his thoughts were interrupted by the sudden entrance of a man running towards the king and queen waving a paper in his raised right hand.

"The princess has been kidnapped." He announced loudly, causing the entire room to fall into a deep silence. 

The musicians stopped playing, the people dancing stood motionless in the middle of the room and the queen almost fainted at that very moment. There was a collective sigh and then nothing. Pure silence while the king read the note that had been left behind by the bandits, establishing a payment for the recovery of the princess.

However, the silence did not last long. It was a room full of princes, knights and lords who were there to win the heart of the princess —or at least, the political interest of her parents— so chaos was bound to break out at a time like that. Lord Einar, the one who had found the note in the courtyard, was the first to offer his services to save the princess. His bravery set off a chain reaction of man after man appearing before the king to justify why they were the best suited for the task and not their competitors. And as they fought among themselves, Geralt decided to take matters into his own hands. 

He finally felt comfortable as he inspected the courtyard and its surroundings for some sort of clue as to your whereabouts. For the first time since he had arrived at the castle he felt as if he actually had something to do there. Banquets and politics weren't his thing, but tracking down and hunting evil was. And while his area of expertise was monsters, he was willing to make an exception —anything to find an excuse to get him out of the political mess unfolding in the banquet hall.

His senses enhanced by the mutation allowed Geralt to follow the path that your scent had left in the air. He only had to take a couple of deep breaths and he immediately caught the fragrance of jasmine and vanilla that he had smelled on your skin. It stood out above any other scent near him, almost as if he had you in front of him once again. All he had to do was follow it to the outskirts of the castle, where his tracking skills allowed him to form a clearer picture of the situation.

They were heading north, away from the ocean and into the forest. The four pairs of footprints in the dirt indicated the presence of three heavy men who were accompanied by a fourth subject that was not so pleased to be there. The footprints were more shallow and imperfect. They belonged to a person of smaller build who was being dragged by those men. Geralt found no blood on the path, so he felt optimistic. You were conscious and had no serious wounds that would leave traces of your blood on the road, so there was a high chance that he would arrive in time to save you.

Following the path became a little more complicated the deeper he went into the woods, but fortunately for him the vegetation was not so lush and the bandits had not hidden very far away. Soon he was able to hear their angry mutterings in the distance. The night wind carried your sobs with it and Geralt followed them as if it were a map straight to your whereabouts. 

You were being held captive in what appeared to be abandoned land. There was a dirty old shack and behind it, in the distance, Geralt could make out a barn that he had no doubt was in the same condition. A dim light was escaping through the half-open wooden door, so he knew that was where he had to go. 

Two of the bandits scattered around the property to control the perimeter while one remained inside with you. Geralt was able to slip past them unseen with ease. Clearly, they were not men of great intellect and wisdom. Only a fool would kidnap a princess on the one night she was surrounded by strong and capable noble knights looking to prove themselves to her. Although glancing around, he was the only one there, so perhaps the bandits had a point.

Geralt was very careful with his movements, seeking to stay in the shadows as long as possible to assess the situation. He knew he could take out those men without breaking a sweat, even if they attacked him all three at once. But he had to consider that you were in the middle and any mistake he made could end badly for you. So he took his time, stealing a glimpse of the barn through the cracked door. His vision was limited by the odd angle from which he was forced to observe the scene, as well as the dim light that illuminated the room. Geralt was considering going in with his sword held high and end it all, when a sudden movement forced him to retreat so as not to be found.

Still, he got to see the way the man was mistreating you, pushing you violently against a pile of hay while you cried and begged for your life. And he got to hear the string of degenerate words he spat at you, enjoying the fear in your voice as you struggled to keep your distance from him. It made Geralt angry. Very angry.

The next sequence of actions happened so quickly that it was hard for you to process it. Although, to be honest, your mind wasn't quite there either. A part of you was completely missing, preparing to face the worst. When your captor lunged at you, effectively imprisoning you against the hay and almost completely restricting your movements, your mind transported you to another place. You could still hear his voice in the distance, smell his unpleasant odor and feel his weight on your body, but it all felt distant, muffled by the sounds of the ocean waves crashing against the rocks and the smell of salt water. Your body was still struggling to break free and tears were still streaming down your cheeks, but your mind was preparing to face the horror you knew was coming.

"You can cry all you want, no one is coming to save you." The man clicked his tongue, an evil smile forming on his lips. "A castle full of people and not a single man in sight, what a shame! But don't worry, princess, the time has come for you to know what a real man is." He moved his hands to the buttons of his pants, his leering gaze roaming over your body. You felt like screaming, crying and vomiting all at the same time, but you remained immobile, not knowing how to react. You simply closed your eyes, concentrating on the images of the sea you loved so much, waiting for the moment to pass.

But instead of feeling the weight of your captor's body on you again, you felt the splatter of warm liquid on your skin. Droplets rolled down your cheeks, mixing with your tears, and streams fell on your clothes. When you opened your eyes you found the sharp point of a sword poking out of your captor's pierced stomach. It was his blood that drenched your body, his blood that stained your clothes. It poured down on you from the wound in his stomach and from the cut in his throat that prevented him from producing more than broken cries as he drowned in his own blood.

It took you a few seconds to understand what was happening. Your confused mind, on high alert for new dangers, was not able to comprehend that the death of your captor was something positive for you. You only saw blood in quantities you had never seen before and could not help but scream as you watched in horror as the sword disappeared inside the bandit's body —splashing a few more drops of blood on its way out.

In the blink of an eye, the dying body of your captor was removed from above you and was replaced by a hand that pressed over your mouth to silence you. You struggled against it, your own hands snapping out of their state of shock to clutch at the arm of the new danger in an attempt to separate it from you. But then your eyes focused on the man leaning over you, the one who had saved you and who was desperately asking you to keep quiet.

A surge of calm ran through your body as you made contact with those golden eyes that intrigued you so much. You knew then that you were no longer in danger for Geralt had come to your rescue. Your heart was still beating almost inhumanly fast, pumping adrenaline throughout your body, and your breathing was still rapid, but you were able to calm your whimpers of protest under his hand. You stopped fighting him, trusting that you would be safe under his care.

"There are more-" You tried to warn him as he removed his hand from your mouth, but Geralt shushed you.

"I know, they're outside. That's why I need you to stay quiet and hide while I deal with them. Can you do that, your highness?" You nodded slowly, letting Geralt lead you to the back of the barn. He settled you behind a pile of hay that was large enough to hide your crouched figure, asking you to stay there until he came back for you, no matter what you heard outside.

"Wait! Don't leave me!" you panicked as he took a step away from you. Your hand flew to his arm, clinging to his clothes in an attempt to keep him from leaving. You knew what he had to do, but the thought of being alone again terrified you.

"Everything will be fine." Geralt tried to calm you, his voice a soft whisper. "I promise I will come back for you." 

He gave you a moment before trying to leave once again, waiting for you to let go of his arm willingly rather than forcibly push you away. Geralt knew you were terrified and needed support, and he was more than willing to give it, but first he had to take care of the bandits that were still on the loose. And it would not be wise to fight them while you were present. It would only distress you further and put you in unnecessary danger. So, with a slight nod, he left you in the barn once more, disappearing into the night to finish what he had started.

You curled up in your place, listening to the distant sounds of the fight as you let another wave of tears roll down your cheeks. The smell of blood and dirt surrounded you. You were covered in it —in dirt, from being pushed back and forth around the place; in your captor's sweat, after he threw his body over yours; and in his blood, thanks to Geralt's fierce but effective attack. It made you want to vomit. The reality of the situation was starting to sink in, and your mind was slowly beginning to understand the great danger you were in and how lucky you were that Geralt showed up when he did.

“Princess?” 

His voice brought you back to reality. He was kneeling beside you, looking at you with concern in those beautiful yellow eyes. The skin on his face was stained with a few drops of blood, as you imagined yours to be, but that did not lessen the softness of his expression. You threw yourself into his arms without a second thought, hiding your face in his neck as you sobbed in relief to know that the danger was over.

"It's okay, you're safe. I'm here, it's going to be okay." Geralt muttered against your hair, pulling you into his arms hoping that would be enough to help ease your nerves. 

He held you against his body for as long as you needed him to, stroking your back with his hand in a slow, delicate way to inspire some sense of calm in you. He didn't move for a moment, not even when your sobs began to fade and your breathing became regular. No, Geralt waited for you to make the first move, breaking away from him when you were ready to do so. 

"It's all right. You're fine. Just breathe with me. In...and out...in...and out. All right." 

You let the soft but deep tone of his voice slowly wash away the paralyzing fear and nerves that plagued you. You focused on the warmth of his body and the way his arms wrapped around you, making you feel safe. You mimicked the rhythm of his breathing, letting him slowly guide you back to normal. 

When you opened your eyes again the world around you was no longer spinning. Your vision was still a little blurry from the tears, but you could make out perfectly the yellow eyes, bright as the summer sun, watching you carefully.

"There you are!" Geralt gave you a small smile. "Did they hurt you?" You shook your head. Most of the blood on you at that moment wasn't yours, thankfully. Beyond a couple of bruises on your wrists from the bindings, and a split lip from a slap, you weren't injured. Your head hurt and you had twisted your ankle in an attempt to escape but it was nothing you couldn't handle.

"Who were they?" You asked in a shaky voice as you tried to stand up. You winced in pain as you put weight on your injured foot, but Geralt caught you in his arms before you lost your balance.

"Trust me, you're not going to like the answer to that."

A collective sigh was heard as you and Geralt entered the war room, where the king and queen were coordinating a rescue party with some soldiers and half of the suitors present at the banquet. It was a sigh of surprise rather than relief. It was clear that no one expected to see you there, much less with the disheveled appearance you had. 

Your mother was the first to react, running up to you with tears in her eyes. Although she couldn't bring herself to hug you, the blood that stained your ball gown was still fresh, so she settled for holding your cheeks in her hands while repeating over and over again how happy she was that you were safe. Your father reacted by sending the guards to arrest Geralt as his worried mind believed that the witcher somehow had something to do with your kidnapping. You had to stand between them, taking your savior's hand in yours to make your position clear. 

"What you imply is ridiculous! He saved me, father. I wouldn't be here if it weren't for him." you stated firmly, keeping your head held high and holding back tears in your eyes. 

"He very well could still be behind all this. He's a witcher who wasn't officially invited to the festivities and conveniently vanished in the middle of the night without a word. No one can attest to him but that bard..."

"No offense, your majesty, but I just felt as though the situation was not being treated with the necessary urgency." Geralt interjected, speaking in a calm and slightly defiant tone. "I knew for a fact that she couldn't be far away and that time was of the essence, but everyone at that feast seemed more interested in proving themselves worthy of glory and respect than saving your daughter's life. I just did what had to be done."

"How dare you speak that way about these noble men, witcher! Any one of them would be more than willing to give his life for my daughter!"

"He is right, father. If you want to find a culprit, you should direct your gaze to Lord Einar."

The room fell silent as all eyes turned to him. But his gaze was focused on you, staring at you with a fury you didn't know if the others were able to detect. He took a step forward and you tightened your grip on Geralt's hand, instinctively seeking his support. He stuck to your side, silently letting you know that he was ready to come between him and you if necessary —though he seriously doubted that Einar would be stupid enough to try to hurt you in front of the king.

"This is absurd!" Lord Einar complained with exaggerated outrage. "I will not allow myself to be disrespected in this way! I was invited to this feast to formalize my interest in the princess, which is greater than that of anyone in this room, if I may add. Have you forgotten that it was I who noticed the princess's strange disappearance? If I had not gone out to look for her, perhaps the news of her disappearance would have come too late. And may I remind you, your majesty, that it was I who first offered my services to bring her back safe and sound."

"That was the plan, wasn't it?" Geralt spoke through gritted teeth. "To pay some coins to a bunch of desperate bastards to take her so that you could rescue her and thus win her and the king's heart."

"I will not allow this... thing to disrespect me like this!"

"Your scent was on their clothes. Your name was the last thing they uttered before I slit their throats. You knew you didn't stand a chance with her, so you found a way to force your name to the top of the list."

Intimidated by Geralt's cold, hard stare, Lord Einar turned to look at the king. "These are nothing more than baseless accusations made by someone who clearly wants to distract us from his own guilt and involvement." he said, keeping his head held high as he lied through his teeth. "I beg you, my king, to consider punishment for this insolent witcher."

"Is this proof enough for you?" you snapped, tossing an object on the table. 

After the bandits were dead, Geralt had searched their bodies for some kind of proof that their words were true. That's how he had found a ring in the pocket of one of them that clearly didn't belong to them. It was made of a fine metal and in the center, engraved in gold, was the seal of a noble family: the Blakesley family.

The ring rolled against the dark wood, exposing Lord Einar's lies with each flick of the ring before the gaze of all present. There was nothing he could say to avoid the punishment that was coming, so when your father gave the order and the guards took him by force, he decided to take his rage out on you. His voice echoed through the corridors as he was escorted to the dungeon, shouting a string of insults at you. He questioned your honor and your ability as a ruler, claiming that he only wanted to marry you to ensure that the kingdom would not perish when your father died. 

Those were nothing more than the words of an unstable man who was filled with spite, angered by your rejection. You knew it meant nothing, but you still couldn't help but feel humiliated as he shouted all those things in front of so many people. Your eyes filled with tears and you clung to Geralt almost instinctively, hiding your face in his neck so no one would see you cry. He wrapped his arms around you, ignoring the very unfriendly looks that several of the men in the room gave him. 

Your mother ordered the room to be emptied, realizing that the crowd was doing nothing to help your condition. The last thing you needed at that moment was to feel watched and judged by a bunch of people, so she personally closed the doors behind the last guard to leave the room.

"You should take a long bath, my love. I'll send someone to prepare the tub and clean clothes for you. That will certainly make you feel better." Your mother spoke in a soft voice, placing a hand on your back. "And you, witcher, are more than welcome to stay tonight. I'll have a room prepared for you and bring you some clean clothes. We can talk more in the morning."

You gave your mother a smile as you wiped your tears with the back of your hand, trying to convince her that you were fine. She knew you weren't, but she also knew you well enough not to push you at that moment. So she left the room without adding anything else, leaving you alone with Geralt once again.

"Thank you... for everything." Your voice broke the silence, your eyes traveling from the door to Geralt's face. "I just realized I didn't thank you yet." 

"You don't have to." He didn't need to hear it from your mouth, he could see in your eyes how grateful you were. Your expression hadn't changed much since he had found you, even though you tried hard to hide it, there were still traces of fear and distress in your eyes.

"Of course I have to! You have saved me from a terrible fate, not only at the hands of those bandits, but also at the hands of that... man." There were other words with which you would have liked to describe him, but you decided it was not appropriate for you to utter them. He didn't even deserve that from you. "I'm glad you were dragged here... I don't know what would have become of me without you tonight, Geralt."

The room fell silent as you looked into each other's eyes. You lost yourself in the amber that surrounded his pupils —which seemed to be more dilated, although it could well be an effect of the light, you thought—, trying to discover the secrets hidden in his eyes. Geralt was not easy to read, no matter how hard you tried, you had no idea of the things that could be going through his head at that moment. And yet, there was something in his eyes that calmed you. When he looked back at you, there was a softness in them that invited you to continue to admire them forever. It was a connection unlike anything you had ever felt before. It piqued your curiosity and some other things you didn't quite know how to explain. 

Your hand was still intertwined with Geralt's and you weren't entirely sure for how long. Although you weren't complaining, you found the warmth of his skin against yours extremely comforting. It made you feel less alone, less vulnerable. You trusted him with your life, you knew that as long as he was around nothing bad could happen to you. And boy did you need that at that moment. You were still quite affected by everything that had happened and the idea of being alone terrified you. You needed company, but not just anyone. You needed his company.

"Would you mind escorting me to my chambers?" you broke the silence, clearing your throat to make sure your voice sounded firm. "My foot still hurts a little and I wouldn't want to fall down the stairs."

It was a foolish excuse. You knew it. Geralt knew it. The twisted foot you got while struggling with your captors was not a cause for concern. It hurt a little, yes, but you could still walk normally. All you wanted was an excuse not to be separated from Geralt and luckily for you, he played along. He allowed you to take his arm for stability and walked with you to your quarters. You appreciated his proximity, enjoying the feel of his body pressed against yours as his warmth enveloped you. But unfortunately it only seemed to aggravate his absence when he pulled away from you, willing to leave you alone so you could rest.

Your hand closed around his arm almost as an unwilling reflex. Your body craved his closeness. Your mind needed his company to be at ease. As much as you wanted to, you couldn't let Geralt leave. Not tonight at least. His eyes lingered on your hand, admiring how small it appeared when compared to his arm, before he looked up into your eyes, searching your expression for an explanation.

"Stay, please." Your voice was almost a whisper. Your eyes had trouble making eye contact with him for the first time since you had met. Geralt knew then that you were embarrassed of uttering those words. "I need you. I... I don't want to be alone tonight."

"Are you sure?" He said after a few seconds of silence, his expression firm but gentle. You nodded, looking at him with pleading eyes as you released his arm from your grip. Geralt sighed and finally crossed the threshold of the door, closing it behind him. 

Geralt allowed you to guide him across the room to a door that hid a large private bathtub on the other side. It was already filled with water and salts, ready for you to use it. Everything smelled of you, of that delicious combination of jasmine and vanilla that Geralt found so special. It was intoxicating, like he was breathing in your scent straight from the source. 

"Would you mind helping me with the lace?" Your voice brought him back to reality. Geralt watched as you turned around, gathering your hair over one of your shoulders to expose your back to him so he could unfasten your dress. He knew it was inappropriate and that he was probably breaking some rule —not to mention, taking advantage of the king's hospitality—, but he couldn't bring himself to stop. Not when you were offering yourself to him like that.

Geralt's hands caressed your back first, his fingers slowly tracing a path from your shoulders to where the lacing of your dress ended. You closed your eyes, holding your breath as you felt him slowly loosen your dress. You could feel his imposing figure towering over you. He was so close that you could hear his breathing and feel the heat radiating from his body. You liked the proximity, probably more than you should.

When Geralt finished his work and your dress began to slide down your shoulders, you knew you should have been embarrassed. You were used to being naked in front of servants, but they were always women you trusted, handmaidens who had taken care of you since you were little and helped you dress or bathe. You had never been so exposed in front of a man before and you should definitely feel ashamed, but you were not. You simply let the dress fall to your feet and stepped into the tub as if there was no man present.

The water was warm and the tub was deep enough to hide your modesty if you sat in the right position. The dim candlelight also helped, though ultimately you really didn't mind feeling Geralt's gaze on your body.

"Join me, please. The water's nice and there's room enough for both of us."

Your curious eyes unashamedly traced the muscles of his arms and torso as he revealed himself to you. You noticed the scars that marked his skin, some smaller and some larger, and you couldn't help but wonder what the stories behind them were. Geralt was an exceptional man, unlike anyone you had ever met in your life. He was so rigid and reserved, and yet he had shown nothing but kindness and gentleness in your presence. He was a mystery and you wanted nothing more than to discover what he hid behind those beautiful amber eyes.

Out of respect —and some embarrassment—, you looked away as his hands undid the buttons of his pants. You focused your attention on the jasmine petals floating in the water, feeling your cheeks grow warm as a small voice in your head encouraged you to look up. 

Geralt settled next to you in the tub, avoiding being too close or sitting in front of you so that you wouldn't feel uncomfortable or self-conscious in his presence. However, you needed his closeness, so you shortened the distance as much as you could, pressing your arm against his. When he didn't complain, you went a step further and rested your head on his shoulder. Geralt stood still for a moment, debating once again whether his actions were appropriate, but in the end he relaxed. 

He put his arm around your shoulders, effectively pulling you closer to him. A smile formed on your lips as you adjusted yourself in the new position, hiding your face in his neck. Geralt's fingers traced soft lines on the skin of your arm, a caress that both relaxed and excited you. That kind of intimacy was something new to you. Feeling his naked skin against yours, inhaling that musky scent mixed with something you couldn't describe as anything but his own essence, feeling the soft caresses of his calloused fingers, everything made you feel a certain way inside. You didn't have the exact words to describe it. It was like a flame, a warmth spreading through you that was both comforting and exciting. Ultimately, you didn't care about being able to put a name to what you felt. You just wanted to stay close to Geralt for as long as you were allowed.

Without even realizing it, your hand traveled up to his chest, your curious fingers tracing the jagged lines that marked his skin. You used the scars as a map to his body, letting them guide your path as you explored his chest with your touch. And as your fingers moved, you imagined the heroic stories behind each one, wondering what kind of monsters had inflicted them and if there were any that were human-made.

"I wonder how many princesses you've saved to end up like this." You broke the silence, your voice soft as you got lost in thought. It was mostly a joke, but there was some genuine curiosity hidden in it. 

"Surprisingly, less than you're probably imagining."

You didn't quite know why, but hearing Geralt say that put a smile on your lips. It made you feel special, in a way. He hadn't been hired to save you —technically he hadn't even been invited to the party—, he had no obligation to you or your family, and yet he had risked his life to help you. There was something in you that awakened in him his noblest instincts.

"I'm sure that's what you tell everyone." You laughed, looking up at him from your position on his shoulder. You could admire his profile, his sharp jawline and the way his lips curved upward slightly as he let out a huff.

"Often delicate young women like you find my methods to be too... grotesque. They don't see me as being much different from the monsters I kill." Geralt spoke honestly, remembering the horrified expressions on the faces of the maidens he had sought to save from danger in his past, when he had little experience as a witcher. He was young and naive at the time and believed he could use his skills for more than just hunting monsters. After all, evil came in all shapes and sizes, even in humans. It didn't take him long to understand that humans didn't see a knight of noble spirit when he intervened in such situations, only a mutant designed to kill.

You noticed his thoughtful expression, his eyes looking straight ahead as if his mind was transporting him to another place. You wondered what kind of memories he might have swirling around in his head at that moment, outraged to think that someone could treat him badly after he saved their life. You admitted that he had quite an imposing figure and that his expression wasn't very friendly most of the time, but you still couldn't understand how anyone could be afraid of him. Even before he saved you —when he was just a stranger who took the time to listen to your problems— you saw nothing threatening in him. His beautiful yellow eyes inspired nothing but trust in you from the first moment you made contact with them.

“Then they were all fools." You sat up straight, one hand resting on Geralt's cheek to force him to look at you. "I don't understand how anyone could look at you and see danger in you. Even covered in blood, all I see is... safety and comfort." You gave him a small smile as your finger carefully wiped a small spot of blood from his cheek.

"Or maybe you're being naively nice."

Geralt took a cloth that rested on the edge of the tub and dipped it in the warm water. Then one of his hands cupped your chin, tilting your face slightly so he could get a better look at you in the candlelight. The flames danced in the air, creating shadows on your delicate skin. But even in the dim light he could still see the splashes of blood that stained your beautiful face. They made such a contrast that it was impossible to ignore them. The implication of such a violent act had no place on the delicate face of a princess like you. He hated to see the scratch on your lip, the dirt on your cheeks, the dried blood on your skin. You should not have been subjected to such horrors and he wanted to do everything in his power to erase the evidence from your body. So Geralt took the trouble to wipe the blood away, carefully running the wet cloth over your skin until it was all gone.

You remained silent as he worked on you, completely immobile while you watched him closely. His eyebrows were slightly furrowed, but his expression was gentle. His hands moved delicately over your skin, as if he was afraid of breaking you if he wasn't careful. You could barely feel the cloth brushing against your cheek from how slow and gentle Geralt was being. But his fingers... his fingers were another story.

They were warm against your skin, caressing every little spot the cloth passed through to soothe any possible irritation the fabric might arouse. They awakened a tingling sensation as they traveled down your face. When they reached your neck, you knew that Geralt could feel the accelerated pulsing of your heart against his fingertips. It was impossible that he couldn't when you could hear the beating in your ears yourself. His hands felt so big against your neck. If he wanted to hurt you, he could probably do it with just one hand. That should have scared you, considering he was a man you barely knew, but it didn't. You knew he wasn't going to hurt you, not when he caressed the sensitive skin of your neck and collarbones with such gentleness.

"Maybe I'm naive," you broke the silence, your voice barely more audible than a whisper. "But I honestly don't think a mutant designed to kill, as you say, would go to the trouble of caring for me the way you are doing."

Geralt's eyes looked up at you, that intriguing yellow you loved so much capturing you in a transe. They were calling you, daring you to dive into the ocean of honey and mystery that was his gaze. And you obeyed without the slightest resistance, letting your heart take the reins of your body. You leaned towards him, slowly. His hands were still on your neck, but he didn't use them to stop you. On the contrary, he leaned towards you too and when your lips finally collided, he used his grip on your jaw to deepen the kiss.

The kiss started slow, a quick brush of your lips as you finally let yourselves indulge in your deepest desires. But as you became more comfortable in each other's arms, the kiss intensified. You let Geralt guide you, knowing that he would undoubtedly have more experience than you. You surrendered to his lips and the caresses of his tongue, giving yourself to him completely as you struggled to keep up with him. 

That wasn't your first kiss, however, it was the first kiss that felt like this, so... intense, passionate. You barely remembered the boy who had given you your first kiss, but you knew you would remember Geralt for the rest of your life. You didn't know how he did it, but the simple touch of his lips and the strokes of his fingers on your skin turned you to mush between his hands. You had never felt anything like it before and you didn't want to stop. But despite your protests, Geralt suddenly pulled away from you.

"What are you doing?" He didn't sound annoyed or confused, more concerned. 

"I'm taking control of my life." You leaned into him once more and Geralt accepted your kiss, his desperate lips demonstrating his true intentions. He let his desires consume him for a moment before regaining control over his body and pulling away from you again.

"Are you sure?" It wasn't that he wanted to stop, but the voice of morality in the back of his mind compelled him to make sure you wanted the same. He needed to know that he wasn't taking advantage of you, that you weren't throwing yourself into his arms as a result of your vulnerable state after the attack.

"For as long as I can remember, I have always dreamed of meeting a noble prince who would protect me from danger. We would fall in love and live a long and happy life together after our marriage. Now I know that is impossible. I cannot choose who I marry. I cannot choose to marry for love. There's nothing I can do to change it, that's just the way things work." You paused, your hands reaching for Geralt's to entwine your fingers. "But I can still choose who to give myself to, body and soul, for the first time... and you're the closest thing I have to that fantasy."

There was a sadness in your eyes that made Geralt feel bad for you. He didn't know you very well, but he knew you deserved better than a future you didn't want. The inability to choose your own path in life was something that seemed to affect you greatly, and if he was able to bring you some peace he was willing to do so. But the tub full of dirty water was not the place for it, much less considering it would be your first experience of something like that. 

"Speak freely." You said after a few seconds of unbearable silence. "If you don't want to be with me because you don't like me I'll understand. But please don't turn me down just because you think you're guarding my honor or something. I want this... I want you."

Those last words seemed to do the trick, because Geralt's lips joined yours once again. Only this time the kiss was different, much slower and more sensual, though just as desperate. His lips moved in time with yours, tongues intertwined in a sinful dance as Geralt allowed his hands to slowly explore your body. His fingers ignited flames on your skin in their path, pleasure and anticipation building inside you. 

The water in the tub swirled violently as Geralt lifted you into his arms, moving you to sit on his lap as if you weighed nothing. You clung to his shoulders for support, feeling his fingers dig into the sensitive skin of your hips. But it didn't hurt, at least not in a bad way. It was a pleasant ache that made you feel alive. Just like his kisses, which trailed down your jaw to your neck, sucking and nibbling on the sensitive skin. 

Geralt's kisses continued their way down and you couldn't help but buck your hips against his when his lips closed over your nipple. You pushed your chest into him instinctively, giving yourself to him as one of your hands got lost in his hair. Pure pleasure traveled through your veins as his tongue played with your breasts, giving attention to one before moving on to the other. He held you tightly against his body, one strong arm stretched across your back while the other wrapped around your waist, pulling you against his growing erection. 

You both moaned as your cunt made contact with his cock. The sensation you felt when the tip brushed against your little bundle of nerves was unlike anything you had ever felt before. The pleasure was much more intense, much more raw. You could feel it spreading through your body and into your bones. So, naturally, you sought it again, creating a rhythm that had you panting in no time. 

You were forced to stop when Geralt suddenly stood up, carrying you in his arms. Your moan of pleasure turned into a cry of surprise, the water in the tub moving violently, flooding the room as he moved towards the exit. You clung to his shoulders, afraid of falling, as you asked him what he was doing.

"We can't do it here. It has to be done properly, in a bed where you’ll be comfortable, and not in a bathtub full of filthy water."

You couldn't help but smile to yourself as you understood the meaning of his words. Once again, Geralt was looking after you, worrying about you and your well-being more than any other man in your life had ever done. He wanted to make things right, to make sure that your first sexual encounter was a positive experience. And while he wasn't exactly the man you had imagined doing it with, he was quite close to it. Every thing he said, every gesture he made to you, made you feel more confident in your decision.

Geralt carefully laid you down on the bed, making sure you were comfortable before continuing his assault on your body. He kissed you again and, as you let his tongue explore your mouth, you couldn't help but think how much bigger he felt now that he was leaning over you. He had one arm on either side of your head, holding himself up so he wouldn't crush you with his weight. One of his toned legs rested in between yours, keeping you open and exposed to him. You were essentially trapped under his body, completely at his mercy, and you liked it.

The pleasure building up inside you was starting to feel too overwhelming. As much as you enjoyed Geralt's wet kisses, you needed more. You needed relief. So you pushed your hips into him once more, seeking that intoxicating pleasure you'd felt in the bathtub. Your wet pussy slid easily up his thigh and a wave of pleasure coursed through your body. 

"Fuck!" Geralt moaned as he felt your wetness trickling down his leg. You looked so sensual moving your hips against him with adoring desperation, struggling to find some relief. The little moans that fell from your lips in between ragged breaths drove him crazy, making it difficult for him to control his instincts. He had to be gentle with you, it was your first time and no matter how much he wanted to, he couldn't pin you down and fuck you until your legs shook.

"Tell me, princess, have you ever touched yourself?" Geralt spoke against your skin as his lips continued their path of wet kisses down your body. "Perhaps when you were alone at night, hidden in the darkness of your chambers."

It took you a few seconds to process Geralt's words, your mind distracted with the way his kisses slowly trailed down your chest, barely pausing on your breasts before continuing to travel down. It made your body tremble with anticipation, wondering what he was up to. He was watching you from his position on your abdomen, lips barely pulling away from your skin so he could observe your face more comfortably, waiting for an answer. The color of his eyes had darkened, the yellow glowing like the flames of the candles that lit the room. There was hunger in them. Geralt was looking at you like a wolf at its prey. You couldn't help but feel a little self-conscious, managing to answer him with a simple negative shake of your head. 

"So you don't know what real pleasure feels like, huh?" You weren't sure if it was a question for you, but you shook your head again anyway. You felt Geralt's lips curving into a smile against the sensitive skin of your lower belly and a shiver ran down your spine when you heard his next words. "I'm going to change that."

Despite the firmness in his voice, Geralt was slow and gentle with each movement he made next. He was careful to position himself between your legs, pushing them open and revealing your most secret part to his hungry gaze. He noticed almost immediately the way you tensed with embarrassment, feeling vulnerable, so he was quick to spread sweet kisses on your right thigh, while gently caressing the skin of your left. He could smell the scent of your arousal with every breath he took. It was intoxicating, the sweet nectar he had been waiting to taste all this time. But first he had to make sure you were comfortable. He was there to pleasure you, nothing mattered if you didn't enjoy it.

"It's okay, my sweet. You don't have to be ashamed, you're beautiful." He spoke against your skin, his voice a raspy, sensual, whisper. "I have to get you ready for my cock, all right? This will feel so good, I promise. But if it doesn't, I want you to tell me, can you do that?" You nodded, but that wasn't enough for him. "I need you to use your words."

"Yes, Geralt, I will."

"Good."

Geralt gave you a few seconds to relax before diving into your cunt, spreading wet kisses down your inner thighs as he got closer and closer to the place where you needed him most. When his tongue finally made contact with the sweet nectar trickling down your folds, he let out a sound that vibrated in his chest with force. All hint of self-control disappeared then, buried under the primal desire that the taste of your arousal awakened in him.

He ate you like a starving man, his tongue exploring your most intimate place with expert skill. Your hips jolted as his lips closed over your small bundle of nerves, your whole body convulsing as you felt pleasure like you had never felt before. It was so intense it was almost too much. It scared you in a way, as it felt like your own body didn't respond to you —like it didn't belong to you. It belonged to Geralt now, and only responded to the stimulation he gave your body.  You were torn between the need to pull away from his entrancing lips —which were no doubt uttering some spell to claim ownership of your innocence— and your body's carnal desire to surrender to his clever tricks in order to continue to feel such pure pleasure.

"Does it feel good, princess?" Geralt spoke between your legs, his warm breath crashing against your pussy and sending shivers down your spine. 

"Yes! So good... please don't stop." You didn't recognize your own voice as you spoke. It sounded raspy from all the moaning, and there was a hint of desperation you'd never heard in yourself before. It wasn't the first time you had begged someone for something you wanted, but it was the first time you actually meant it.

"I won't, I promise. I'm here to make you feel good." Geralt assured between slow, long licks, focusing his attention on your clit before continuing. "But if you're going to take my cock, I'll need to stretch your tight hole." You tensed again and once more he used his strategy of stroking and kissing your thighs to calm you down. You knew that penetration was an important part of the whole thing and you were ready to face it, but still, the unknown scared you a little. "I'm going to insert a finger inside you, is that all right my sweet? It might feel a little uncomfortable at first, but I promise it will feel great afterwards. But first I have to know that you still want this."

"Yes, Geralt, I want this. I trust you, please." You gave him a shy smile, looking at him with complete admiration. He saw the desire in your eyes, mixed with anticipation and a hint of fear. But you were confident in your decision, so he continued.

"Relax, I'm going to take care of you." He murmured against your skin, his kisses slowly moving closer to your wet cunt. "Just focus on the pleasure."

Geralt's voice echoed in your mind, your body obeying his commands as if he had cast a spell over you that left you with no other choice. You focused on the fire burning inside you, on the skillful way he flicked his tongue against your abused bundle of nerves and on the knot in your stomach that tightened with each passing second. You tried not to tense up as you felt Geralt's finger press against your entrance, biting your lip and taking deep breaths to calm your nerves. His tongue was doing a good job of distracting you, but you could still feel the slightly painful drag of his finger inside you. 

"You're doing so well for me." Geralt complimented you, keeping his finger still inside you to give you time to get used to the new sensation. You couldn't hide how much it pleased you to hear those words, because your walls clenched around his finger, revealing your deepest desires. Geralt grunted against your pussy, fantasizing about how good your tight hole would feel around his cock. 

It took you a moment to get used to the strange sensation of his intrusion. It wasn't painful exactly, mostly uncomfortable since your walls weren't used to stretching like that. But eventually the discomfort faded into pleasure, bringing new sensations as he slowly began to move his finger inside you. 

Your moans became uncontrollable, increasing in volume with each of Geralt's caresses. If you weren't so wrapped up in your own pleasure, you would have worried about the possibility of being overheard by some servant or guard walking down the corridor. You knew it might potentially ruin your reputation, but you couldn't focus on anything other than the way Geralt's long, thick finger stretched you, making you feel full in the most pleasurable way possible. 

"Geralt I-" You tried to speak, but the air caught in your throat as you felt the knot in your stomach becoming incredibly tight, threatening to snap.

"I know, my sweet, I know." Geralt interrupted you as he noticed your trouble forming coherent sentences. He could sense you were getting close to relief in the way your walls tightened around his finger, your juices dripping down your legs and soaking his hand. "Just let yourself go. I've got you."

Geralt added another finger inside you, stretching your walls even further. He was careful, his movements slow and precise as he both prepared you for his cock and brought you closer to the edge. His mouth focused on your clit, his lips closing around your sensitive pearl as his fingers explored your insides, reaching that spongy place deep inside you and rubbing it until your whole body shuddered with your orgasm.

It felt like your insides exploded, the tension that had been building in your core suddenly snapping as wave after wave of pleasure coursed through your body. Your mind went blank, eyes rolling back as Geralt did his best to hold back the violent spasms of your muscles. 

And then your body fell limp on the sheets. You could barely hear the world around you over your racing heartbeat that throbbed in your ears. You knew Geralt was muttering things against your skin as he kissed his way back up, but your mind was too lost in the pleasure to make sense of his words. Your chest was rising and falling rapidly, your body desperate for oxygen as it struggled to regain control.

"There you are!" Geralt gave you a soft smile as you opened your eyes, his face slowly coming into focus on your clouded vision. "How are you feeling?"

"Fine! That was..." you paused, searching for the words to describe it. Although explaining your feelings proved to be more difficult than you expected. You were convinced that there were no words in any language you knew to describe what he had made you feel. So you let out an airy laugh, hiding your face in his neck and spreading small kisses over his skin.

"Do you still want to go through with this?" Geralt asked you, pulling away from you a little so he could look into your eyes. You kissed him back, tasting the sweet flavor of your arousal on his tongue. It was strangely erotic for you to feel your own essence on him, like a mark that, though temporary, showed to whom his lips belonged. It sent a rush of desire and confidence through your body, igniting the fire inside you once more.

The pressure of his cock was nothing like his fingers. While the stretching sensation was not completely foreign to you, Geralt's cock was much longer and thicker than his fingers so it hurt a lot more when he began to push it into you. The mixture of your arousal and his saliva helped his member slide more easily through your walls, but you still couldn't hold back the whine of pain, which vibrated against Geralt's lips. 

"It's all right... you're all right. Just a little more." He crooned as he rested his forehead against yours. His fingers caressed the skin of your hip, giving you comfort as you clung to his shoulders. "You're doing so good for me, my sweet." His voice was soft, but erratic, laced with the clear pleasure that sliding so torturously slow inside your tight walls brought him. 

Geralt remained immobile once he bottomed out, spreading kisses all over your face and neck as he gave you time to adjust to his size. It was the hardest task he had ever had to do in his life. Facing any monster was easier than staying still when your warm, wet walls wrapped around him so well. He was desperate to move, pull out of you almost completely only to slam back in, thrusting his hips against yours as he pinned you against the bed. But it was your first time, so he had to be gentle with you. You weren't ready for that kind of rough loving, so Geralt pushed his dark desires aside and waited for you to give him the signal to move. 

After a while, your moans of discomfort turned into whimpers of protest, not from pain, but from the growing fire inside you that wasn't being tended to. You experimentally moved your hips against Geralt's, just to see what it would feel like. It was a small movement, but it was enough to push his cock deeper inside you, sparking a pleasurable tingling sensation that spread throughout your body. So you did it again, moving with more confidence this time. And again, only this time, Geralt met you halfway, grinding his hips against yours.

Your walls tightened around his cock and the growl that escaped his lips was so deep and primal that it almost pushed you over the edge once more. Something about knowing that you were the cause of those moans, that your body, your pussy, your caresses, were responsible for such reactions was so arousing. Knowing that even though you were inexperienced you were able to elicit such pleasure in him made you feel more comfortable and confident. You were turning his world upside down as much as he was turning yours.

"You look so beautiful like this." Geralt said as he slightly increased the rhythm of his hips. "So small and fragile underneath me, eyes filled with lust as you try your best to take me in your tight hole." 

You moaned into his mouth, desperately searching his lips for something to keep you grounded as pleasure took over your body and mind. Your cunt clenched at his words, finding the mix of softness and roughness in his action incredibly arousing. His hips moved against yours in a consistent and deep, yet slow and sensual rhythm. His calloused fingers roamed over your body, caressing you in such a subtle way that it gave you goosebumps. His filthy words perfectly balanced flattery and roughness, awakening feelings you didn't know you had. It was all a dangerous, overwhelming mix, slowly getting to you close to the edge.

"Does it feel good? Do you like feeling me deep inside you?" You could only moan incoherently in response, hiding your face in the crook of Geralt's neck as your nails dug into his back. "I like it too. You feel so good wrapped around me, my perfect princess."

"Yes, I'm yours! I'm all yours, please..." You begged, for what, you weren't sure. But that didn't really matter, you just wanted Geralt to do whatever he wanted with you. You knew there was no future in your relationship, but this was no time to think about tomorrow. At that moment you were giving yourself body and soul to him, allowing him permission to use and explore your body as he wished.

"Yes you are, but not just for tonight." Geralt moaned in your ear, his voice a deep hoarse whisper. He sucked a mark just below your earlobe, nibbling the sensitive area playfully before continuing to speak. "You will always remember this night and think of me when your future husband takes you to bed on your wedding night. He's not going to compare to me... to how good I'm making you feel. But that's fine, because at least you had a chance to know what it feels like to be adored like you truly deserve, my princess."

"Fuck, Geralt! I'm-" Your warning was interrupted by a moan as you felt him sink his teeth into the sensitive skin of your neck at the same time he pushed his member incredibly deep inside you.

"I know, I can feel you squeezing me so tight. It's alright, just let go for me, my sweet. I want to feel you as you come undone on my cock." 

His hand traveled south, calloused fingers pressing against your abused bundle of nerves, drawing circles over it. The way your pussy clenched around his cock made it hard to focus, his own orgasm approaching with alarming speed. But he kept a steady rhythm, his hips moving in a slow, sensual way to make sure his cock brushed that special place inside you without causing you any pain.

"That's it, keep making those pretty notices for me. You're doing so good for me, my beautiful, perfect, princess. Just let go, I've got you. You're safe with me, just let go."

It was the softness in his husky voice that finally pushed you over the edge, your whole body shaking with the intensity of your orgasm. Geralt's name was the last thing you uttered before the world around you disappeared behind the waves of pleasure. It was a pathetic whimper, a plea for mercy as you felt frightened by the sheer intensity of your orgasm. Geralt was sure he had never heard a more sensual melody. The way you had uttered his name just before the pleasure exploded inside you was something he was never going to forget.

"That's it, my sweet. You did such a good job for me." He complimented you, slowing down the rhythm of his hips to give you time to recover. "You're alright. I'm here, I've got you. Just breathe... that's it." 

Geralt's voice helped you refocus on the real world, his sweet kisses slowly lifting the fog that clouded your mind. You could still feel him inside you, his cock throbbing desperate for relief. The shallow thrusts weren't enough and you needed to feel him falling apart inside you. You needed to know what it felt like to have a man —and especially him— come inside you. And you knew it was safe with him since witchers were incapable of fathering children as a result of their mutations.

"Geralt, please... I want to feel you." You managed to say between gasps, locking your legs around his hips to keep him in place, pressed inside you. He let out a deep growl as he understood the meaning behind your words, his eyes darkening with lust. You were definitely going to be the death of him.

"Of course, my sweet, how could I deny you anything?" He murmurs against your lips, slowly increasing the rhythm of his hips. "You want to feel my seed deep inside you, is that it? You want me to fill you up, leave a part of me inside you so you won't miss me so much when I'm gone?"

His words alone were enough to ignite that flame inside you again. Your body was tired, but still screamed for more. Geralt's thrusts became erratic with each passing second, desperate to reach his own relief. And in the search for his pleasure he was taking you with him to a new limit. 

"I will give it to you, my princess. I will give you all of me. I could never deny you anything, my sweet, beautiful girl."

His sweet words contrasted with the harshness of his movements, hips crashing against yours in desperate thrusts. He was getting closer to his relief and he could feel in the way your cunt clenched around his cock that you were too. His thumb focused on your clit once more, one, two, three strokes accompanied by his thrusts and you were crying his name again. But he didn't get to enjoy much of the way you tightened around him, because he came seconds later, shooting his load deep inside you.

Geralt collapsed on top of you, his body crushing you against the bed as you both tried to catch your breath. But even though he was much bigger than you, it wasn't an uncomfortable position. The weight of his body felt comforting against yours. You liked the way he hid his face in your neck, breathing heavily against your sweaty skin. It gave you the opportunity to stroke his back and run your fingers through his hair. It felt intimate, in a completely different way than the sex you'd just had. 

You whined in protest as he rolled to the side, feeling the mixture of your arousal and his sliding down your legs now that his cock had left you. It was a strange sensation to feel empty without him inside you. You didn't know such a feeling was possible, for you that used to be normal, the only way to feel. But now that you had had Geralt buried deep inside you, that you had felt his seed filling you to the brim, you would always be aware of that strange emptiness between your legs.

"How are you feeling?" you heard him say and you struggled to open your eyes, your eyelids heavy with exhaustion. He was standing at the foot of the bed, a cloth in his hand, and you wondered when he had moved from your side without you noticing.

"Great! That was... great." You mumbled, still unable to find an adequate word to describe how good he had made you feel.

Geralt gave you a small smile before lowering his face to your legs, placing small kisses on your skin as he moved closer and closer to your center. "Open up for me, my princess. I need to clean you." 

You reluctantly complied, feeling much more exposed and vulnerable now that the deed was done. However, he was gentle with you, moving carefully as he cleaned you so as not to irritate your sensitive, abused cunt. And when he was done, he kissed his way down your face, caressing your skin with his lips, culminating his journey in your mouth.

"What about you?" you tried to sound casual as you spoke, though you failed miserably. "Was it... good for you too?" You immediately regretted your choice of words, worrying that you had ruined the moment.

"I thought I had been quite clear if not with my words, with my actions at least." Geralt let out an airy laugh and you followed suit, feeling a little more relieved. 

Then the room fell into silence. It wasn't an awkward or uncomfortable one, but a peaceful one. You got lost in Geralt's eyes, admiring the yellow glow that was much softer now, though just as captivating. The candlelight reflected in them in a special way, highlighting their unique beauty. You could stare at them for hours if it weren't for the tiredness that was slowly beginning to take hold of you. 

You didn't realize you had closed your eyes until you felt Geralt move beside you. You stopped feeling the weight of his body on the bed, so you opened your eyes immediately. Your hand flew to his arm, fingers closing around his wrist. "Please don't go," you begged as you saw that he had sat up in bed. "I want you to stay with me tonight."

Geralt smiled, the corners of his lip curving slightly upward as he reached out with his free arm to grab the blanket that had been left forgotten at the foot of the bed. His eyes lowered to your hand and his expression turned hard as he noticed the ligature marks on your skin. He hated to know the horrible treatment that someone as delicate and beautiful as you had to go through at the hands of those bandits. Even though he had rescued you before something even worse happened to you, as he looked at the marks on your wrists he feared he had not been quick enough.

Noticing the change in his expression, your eyes followed Geralt's gaze with curiosity. You felt embarrassed when you realized what he was looking at with such intensity and released his grip on his arm, seeking to hide your injured wrist. But he didn't let you. Geralt intertwined his fingers with yours and brought your hand to his lips. His eyes didn't break contact with you as he scattered delicate kisses over the irritated area of your wrist, showing you that you had nothing to be ashamed of with him.

"I'm not going anywhere if you don't want me to, my princess. I'm here to serve you tonight." Geralt said as he lay down next to you once again, covering you both with the blanket.

You took advantage of his words and his desire to please you by curling up against him, resting your head on his chest. Geralt wrapped his strong arms around you, pulling you even tighter against his body as he let his fingers trace invisible patterns on your skin. It was extremely relaxing, his gentle touch and the warmth of his body enveloping you was exactly what your tired mind needed to rest. All the fear, the terrifying memories of your attackers and the feeling of danger completely disappeared as he held you in his arms. 

"Good, because I feel safer when I'm in your arms." You mumbled as you closed your eyes, feeling sleep slowly overcome you.

It was hard to say goodbye to Geralt when the time came for him to leave. He had only stayed at the castle for a couple of days at your father's insistence, but that had been more than enough for you to grow fond of him. He was not a very talkative person, but that only made your conversations more interesting. He was intriguing, a closed book that only opened with the pronunciation of the right words. You had fun unraveling some of his history, hearing about his adventures and the monsters he had faced. He was definitely the most interesting man you had ever met - far more interesting and noble than most of the men who were competing for your hand in marriage. And now you had to see him go.

You always knew that your days were numbered, that Geralt would eventually leave and you would have to go back to reality. You thought you could do it, enjoy his company and the illusion of freedom you had created with him and then say goodbye as if nothing happened, but you would be lying if you said you weren't a little sad about his departure. Especially because you didn't know if you would ever see him again. Maybe on your wedding day, if you invited Jaskier to play at the festivities he would bring him as security again. Or perhaps, if the kingdom was haunted by some evil creature he would find his way back to you. But nothing was certain and that made you feel quite sad.

"I guess this is our goodbye." You watched Geralt settle his horse's saddle, tucking away his swords and clutching his bag as he prepared to leave. You tried to hide the grimace of sadness that wanted to form on your face, but the disappointment in your voice betrayed you. "I'll never see you again, will I?"

Geralt stopped what he was doing to look you in the eyes. You could have sworn you saw a glint of sadness in the golden fire of his irises, though it disappeared as he blinked. "It'll probably be a while, yeah." He sighed. "But nothing is set in stone. Maybe the search for a job will bring me back down these roads."

You smiled. Even moments before he left, he was still making an effort to make you feel good. "I'd like that." You took a couple of steps closer to him, taking his hand in yours to feel his skin against yours one last time. "The gates of this castle will always be open to you, Geralt of Rivia. And as long as I am alive, you will always find safe passage through these lands."

"Thank you, your highness. It is an honor." He bowed slightly even though he knew it was not necessary. Formalities had been forgotten between you since your night together. Then, he took your hand and brought it to his mouth. His lips caressed your skin gently, planting a soft kiss of farewell. "Until we meet again."

You held back the urge you had to taste the flavor of his lips one last time, knowing that there were too many eyes around you that would deem such behavior inappropriate. And perhaps they were right, after all, a respectable maiden like you, in search of a husband to marry and rule with, could not be seen kissing anybody. You knew you would probably regret it for the rest of your life —especially if Geralt never stopped by again—, but it was the right thing to do. Your days of freedom were over, now you had to resume your responsibilities as a princess and that meant holding back the urge you had to run after Geralt, get on his horse and let him take you wherever he wanted. So you just watched him leave, seeing how his figure became smaller and smaller on the horizon while you wished with all your soul that fate would cross your path again.

[noira-l]

𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠

⋆ ★ '𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞' - 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬

chapter summary: You are falling into darkness and meaninglessness. Satoru refuses to let you do that.

pairing: gojo satoru x f!sorcerer reader

warnings: hurt/comfort, lots of comfort, after 'premature death', after suguru deflection, describtion od depression, apathy, lost meaning in life, slight eating disorder, sleeplesness.

author's note: We finally get to see his softer side, though as is his fashion, he does it in his own way.

4 months after Suguru defected

"I know that the situation that happened has left its mark on you, however, you must not give up like this."

Yaga had been trying to reach you in his office for several minutes. To no avail. Your gaze was still blank, staring at a single point on his desk since you sat down, it didn't seem like you were present in any way.

Silence. You didn't answer anything. Just as you always do.

This is not your first meeting with your Sensei. Yaga has been trying to make his way to you for about a month.

A void in your head, so great and black that it swallowed you whole. Your body indifferent to every sense that reached you, you did not analyse it at all. If Satoru hadn't dragged you here, literally holding your hand and leading you, you wouldn't have come here at all. You didn't have the will or the strength for it.

Everything stopped at that moment. It ended. There was nothing left. Anything important and beautiful in your life was taken away from you by the terrible malice of fate. Your house burnt down. Your beloved had descended into madness. You no longer had anything to care about. Your entire past no longer mattered. Everyone is literally dead.

Even you died that day.

You wondered what was still alive.

Or at least that's how you explained it to yourself, unable to accept that the same person who promised you the world had just taken it away from you.

You were lifeless. It didn't take much to conclude that.

All that remained was a fragile, frail and empty shell of a person once filled with love, dreams and passion.

You no longer had the strength to cry, or to utter any words. If it wasn't for Shoko, you wouldn't even eat, and if it wasn't for Gojo, you probably wouldn't sleep.

You could smile altogether now. The world of jujutsu never broke you, the person you loved did. But you didn't, even though it crossed your mind.

What an honour to be the exception to the rule.

Yaga sighed leaning against his expensive chair.

"(Y/N)." he called out, though you didn't even flinch "I don't want you to end up like this. As your teacher, I recognises your self-doubt as his personal failure. The situation that has befallen you is a very difficult one and I understand that you would need time to get things back to normal."

He leaned towards you "However, in this world we live in, we cannot afford such a luxury." you knew his eyes were drilling into you.

"It has been more than four months. Your condition is not improving, only getting worse. At your request, I have specifically let you skip part of your training." you heard him grinding his teeth, but not out of anger, but out of helplessness "I'm doing my best not to send you on missions in this condition, because I know that even if something attacks you-" he paused.

-you won't even try to defend yourself.’ you finished for him in your head.

He was right, you knew it, and so did anyone who would just look at you. You lost a lot of weight, your skin turned pale got a shade of gray, and your eyes lacked their former spark.

You could see that Yaga, in that silence, couldn't find the right words. When he opened his mouth to say something, you finally muttered, pausing his speetch.

"But Sensei, you should…" you raised your gaze from the one point where it was cumulative to look the man deep in the eyes

"..let something finish me off. It's all meaningless anyway."

★ --

Yaga sat in his office, surrounded by a silence that seemed to deepen his worries. Outside the window, the rain drummed against the glass as if to wash the weight of anxiety from his soul, but it only deepened his sense of helplessness.

Your words, haunted him.

‘Let something finish me off. It's all meaningless anyway' constantly echoed in his mind, like a silent cry of despair that gave him no peace.

Never before had he seen such emptiness in someone's eyes - an emptiness that testified that all hope, all will to fight, had been sucked out of you.

He was incapable of seeing Geto Suguru roll into a similar spiral.

It was a failure that has pursued Yaga, reminding him of the fragility of the human mind.

You are reminder of that too.

Now he saw the same symptoms in your - empty eyes, unresponsive to sensory input, avoiding contact with others.

Every day when you came to training was like seeing a ghost moving among the living, unable to fully return to life. You was physically there, but you soul seemed to be elsewhere, trapped in a place you couldn't get out of.

In this state, Yaga knew he had to seek advice from others.

He must act. He will not make this mistake again.

You will not be a case to regret.

And he had a lot of them.

He was the first to go to Shoko. He met her in the corridor, as busy as ever with her work, locked in a world where medicine was everything.

"Shoko, have you tried to talk to her? Something about her condition?" he asked, although he already knew the answer. Shoko sighed, not stopping for a moment.

"I'm not good at such conversations." she replied briefly, looking at him fleetingly, as if those words would explain everything. Yaga knew that Shoko was doing as well as she could, but he also knew, that she was avoiding emotion like a fire. She couldn't help you in this battle that was going on inside. She was only capable of healing you on the outside.

The next stop was Nanami. Always serious, always composed, Nanami was someone who could be counted on in the most difficult of times. However, when Yaga asked him the same question, the answer was equally overwhelming.

"I understand what she is going through. I've tried to reach out to her, but… she's silent. I don't know how I can help her when she won't talk.’" there was a note of helplessness in Nanami's voice that had never been there before. Yaga knew that he sympathised with you, that he had tried, but that he himself could not break through this invisible barrier you had built around yourself.

Last was Satoru, always the enigmatic one, always full of contrasts. Yaga found him in one of the training rooms as he watched the younger students' classes.

"Satoru, did you talk to her?" he asked, knowing that Gojo was someone who could see more than others.

"I don't talk. I just sit by her when she's awake. That's all I can do." replied, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

Yaga felt a mixture of relief and sadness upon hearing these words. Satoru, in his typical style, had found a way to be beside you, but even he, with all his unlimited potential, could not pull you out of your state.

★ --

3 weeks after Suguru defected

Gojo was initially not supposed to get so involved.

He kept repeating to himself that he wasn't good at such things, that he didn't know how to talk about such topics, couldn't find a solution for you or show you something he should.

Your storm you showed him that day left a mark in him. It awakened something in him. He couldn't deny it. He just kept living in the belief, that he wasn't capable of doing anything about it. He didn't feel that there was anything in him that he could offer to help you. He never knew what to say, he never knew what to do. He felt hopeless about it. Satoru was not the kind of person who makes the same mistakes twice or never learns from them.

He blamed himself for Suguru's departure. He felt that his corruption was his fault. His lack of attention, his lack of interest, his powerlessness - his failure to adapt to such situations.

Gojo Satoru was the strongest, that was the reason he was born. It was what he was made for.

He was not made to come into contact with the problems of humanity, he was always above others, he never touched such topics. And now here you are. In front of him. You are showing him this.

You bring him closer to this subject, you prove to him that he, despite his title, is still human.

He feels exactly what you feel.

You are proof that the feelings he has inside him - make him human.

What ultimately made him abandon the idea of leaving the subject to himself was the sight of you. Soaking wet for long moments on the training field.

He saw you from a distance, as he walked with Shoko to class. He separated from her to letting her go ahead, saying he would catch up with her. The rain was dark and heavy. he didn't need an umbrella, so he walked throught it like was nothing. A white beam of light, walking throught the dark.

The sight of you, sitting on the training field with a bamboo sword, completely soaked - stuck in his mind. It was an image that spoke more than a thousand words. You were physically there, but spiritually you seemed to be far away, in a place where no words could reach you. Satoru, though usually full of energy and humour, this time simply walked up to you and without a word took your hand, pulling you out of the rain. You didn't even defy him as the force lifted your body and made you float slightly above the ground.

He sat you down in his room, giving you a towel to dry you off. Gojo left for a while, leaving you covered in towels and a warm blanket.

He quickly teleported to the kitchen, to brew a mug of warm tea for you. He waited patiently for the kettle to boil the water, tapping his fingers against the kitchen counter in thoughtfulness. He thought about bringing Shoko to you, as you might have caught a cold. Suguru had mentioned that you catch such colds quite easily.

As he moved back, he set his mug down on his notebook-cluttered desk and looked at you. You stood at the window, watching the rain that had kept the world quiet all day today.

"Why the rain?" he asked, trying to strike up a conversation. You did not answer immediately, still staring at the raindrops reflecting on the window.

After a moment, you raised your gaze, looking at him with a blank stare. "Because the rain is clean. It washes everything away. Maybe if I stood there long enough, it would wash me away too." Satoru felt his heart squeeze with pain at those words, but he didn't allow himself to have any emotional outbursts.

You sat like this for a long time, he beside you, looking out at the rain. In the silence that surrounded, he could feel how devastated you were, how much you had lost the will to live. He knew that these feelings would not disappear overnight. He was aware of that.

So from that moment on, Satoru implemented a plan that seemed strange and effective, exactly his style.

★ --

1 month after Suguru defected

The first month was a time of anticipation and patience for Satoru.

When he first entered your room, he felt the dense atmosphere almost overwhelm him. The quiet, enclosed room seemed as if trapped in time. You were sitting on the bed, your back turned to the door, shoulders tense. It was clear that your thoughts were far away.

Satoru closed the door behind him, then took a seat against the wall, far away from you, right next to the door. He sat down on the floor, pulled his gameboy out of his pocket and began to play, pretending it was a normal everyday situation.

At first you did not even look at him. Your gaze remained fixed on one point, as if you were trying to find a meaning in it that you could not find anywhere else. Satoru, however, was not bothered by this silence. He concentrated on the game, allowing you to get used to his presence while giving you space. Managing the space was his special skill.

Every day he would spend a few dozen minutes in your room, sometimes playing, sometimes bringing something to eat with him. Often he would sit there with a meal in his hand, eating slowly, and the sounds of munching were the only sounds in the room. He never tried to get you to talk, knowing that your personal space was crucial at that moment.

★ --

2 months after Suguru defected

The second month brought slight changes. Satoru, feeling that your reactions to his presence had become more bearable, decided to get closer.

Instead of sitting on the floor by the door, he took a seat in the chair by your desk, which stood slightly closer to the bed. When he entered the room, you looked at him - that was a success! Noticing change in his behaviour, but you took a quick glance at him, so he couldn't be happier. He passed you a small smile, that was a welcoming greeting.

Satoru stretched out comfortably in a chair, pulled out a book and began to read. Occasionally he would reach for his headphones to turn on some music for himself, shutting himself off from the world but still being there, at arm's length, if you need him.

There were days when he couldn't concentrate on reading, so he would just sit, watching you out of the corner of his eye. As time went on, he began to notice that you would sometimes glance at him, as if trying to understand why he came here almost everyday that was free for him, even though you didn't exchange a word with each other. Even when he was busy, your room was the first stop when he came back from any mission.

★ --

3 months after Suguru defected

In the third month, Satoru felt he could risk the next step.

When he walked into your room one day, instead of sitting in a chair, he walked over to the bed and sat on the edge of it. He felt your body tighten as soon as he sat down, but you didn't move away or ask him to leave. This was the sign he had been waiting for.

He pulled out his gameboy, fired up the game and started playing, sitting next to you. For a while, the silence was almost overwhelming, but as time passed, the atmosphere began to relax. Satoru noticed that although you still didn't speak, your presence had become somewhat more conscious.

He started bringing you food when Shoko couldn't. He felt that when he brought you something, you were more eager to glance at it. And you even took a bite of the sweet roll he left with you one day.

There were also moments when you started to move, as if you wanted to say something, but the words were stuck in your throat. Satoru did not push. He felt that these small gestures were a sign of progress.

★ --

4 months after Suguru defected

In the last month of this silent coexistence, Satoru decided to go all in.

When he entered your room, he didn't stop at the door or the chair. He immediately headed for the bed and lay down beside you without a word. He felt you body stiffen at first, but after a while you relaxed, accepting his presence. This was so strange, but so.. welcoming.

Both of you lay side by side, arms barely touching, but it was enough.

Satoru pulled out his mp3 player, turned on quiet music and placed it between you two, letting the soft sounds fill the silence. He watched the ceiling, occasionally glancing up to look at your face. The sight of it, now devoid of such deep pain as it had been in the beginning, made him relieved. He knew that your emotional state was still fragile, but he was sure that his presence was helping you in some way. You were helping him too, he just couldn't say that to you.

His presence in your room become such a small tradition, which he often looked forward to. Besides your dorm was a good escape for him, when he was looking for, there was never any thought that he could be at your place.

One day, as both you lay like this, you gently turned towards him and looked at him with a slightly softer expression on your tired face. You didn't need to say anything - your gaze said more than words.

Satoru smiled slightly at you, then closed his eyes, feeling that you had reached a state of understanding that was only possible through months of patience and perseverance.

He was content, that he could see your eyes weren't so empty or full of tears. That was a breakthrought, that he was so eager to welcome.

★ --

4 and a half months after Suguru defected

Satoru has not visited you for a week.

You knew he was back from a mission, because Shoko bringing you food mentioned it. She also said that it had been a long and exhausting one, on which they had sent him alone, with no support from even specialists.

It was already very late in the night, you had been waiting for him for a long time, and yet he had not come.

For the first time since moths, you got out of bed by yourself.

You poked your head out, to see if the light in his room was on, it still was. You were overwhelmed by a strange feeling, that you could not quite describe. You wondered what the reason was for breaking this little tradition you shared between the two of you.

You came to the conclusion, that he probably needed the space himself and was just using it. Although this seemed to you to be completely unsuitable for a person you came to know. Should you do something about this fact? You nervously bit your nail.

What if he now needs the same treatment that he used to give you? What if he just needs to be alone?

A conflict arose in your mind. You didn't know what to do, how to behave. You felt a little stressed as you slowly sat back down on the bed.

What should you do?

Your decision was made, when your foot visited the kitchens for the first time in months to brew a tea for him.

All you could hear in the quiet corridor was the soft creaking of the floor, as you approached the door of his room. The wooden gates were slightly open, as if Gojo didn't have the strength to close them fully. You carefully pushed it open with your hand, peering inside.

Satoru was lying on the bed, with his arms spread, as if the weight of the world was crushing him to the mattress. His white hair, always so perfectly styled, were a mess. Fortunately, he had managed to change into his pyjamas. There was an expression of extreme fatigue on his face, but when he heard quiet footsteps, he lifted his eyelids.

Your gazes met. You gently closed the door behind you, then stepped deeper into the room, setting your mug of warm drink down on the desk. Just as he had done this to you one time. Your limbs tremble slightly from the cold. Going to the kitchen in just your pyjamas and flip-flops at this time of year was a stupid idea.

You didn't exchange a word with each other. You blandly started playing with the sleeve of your nightshirt. You didn't need words to understand how tired he was, the slight bags under his eyes and messy look told you all you needed to know.

He changed positions on the bed, moving more towards the wall, grabbed a corner of the duvet and lifted it up. He made an inviting gesture with his head and his slightly glowing eyes went out.

You sat on the edge of the bed first. Feeling a little on unfamiliar ground. You had only been in his room a couple of times. The main place for you to hang out as a group was Suguru's room. Immediately you felt the warmth emanating from the sheets.

With a slow movement you lay down next to him, letting the warmth of the duvet and his scent greet you. The mattress bent slightly under you weight, as you turned to face him. You could feel how soft and molded his mattress was, how his pillow was pleasantly arranged. Your body slowly began to warm, heat waves spreading through your body, soothing your mind and dulling your senses. The air around you was warm, enveloping, and his presence added a strange sense of security that you hadn't felt in a long time.

You could feel your body relaxing more and more with each breath. You could hear the calm rhythm of his breathing, which worked on like a lullaby. You were so warm, not only physically, but also internally, as if this place, this moment, was exactly where you were supposed to be.

You slowly closed your eyes, feeling sleep begin to embrace you with it's softness. The thoughts that had been swirling around in your head just moments before, began to quiet down, giving a way to a blissful emptiness. The warmth of his body and regular breathing were like an focus points that, allowed you to pull your head away from your worries and sink into a peaceful sleep.

Finally, you allowed yourself to fully surrender to the moment. You fell asleep, with his hand still gently resting on your waist, in a place that seemed the safest in the world.

★ --

Satoru slowly opened his eyes, feeling the soft rays of the sun on his face. For a while he lay still, savoring the quiet of the morning and the warmth that beat from the body, cuddled into his. You were sleeping peacefully, your breathing was steady and deep, and face expressed the kind of calm he hadn't seen in you in a long time. He smiled slightly, pleased that you could finally truly rest.

He didn't want to wake you, but he knew the day was calling him. He shifted cautiously, reaching for the phone that lay on the bedside table. For a moment, he pondered how to play it, but quickly decided that the only person he could ask to do it - was Shoko.

you: "Take care of everything today? Thanks. >ᴗ<"

7:43 am

Sent a message, not waiting for a respond, he put the phone aside, before turning back to you.

He glanced at your face once more. You looked so peaceful, as if for a moment you had forgotten everything that had overwhelmed you for months.

Gojo gently ran his fingers through your hair, trying not to wake you up. He smiled, seeing how you moved slightly in his arms, as if you instinctively knew he was there.

He was so proud of himself, the sight of your sincere rest soothed his heart somehow. Thanks to him, you were finally able to rest. He felt satisfaction and contentment at the thought. He finally didn't feel so helpless and powerless. He felt that he had just done something, that at least one person, by some screwed up luck, had managed to be saved by him.

With a slight sigh, he closed his eyes, allowing himself to sink into sleep again. He knew that he didn't have to rush anywhere, that this was a day they could spend relaxing, even if he had responsibilities and pressures on him, at this point he totally didn't give a damn. He fell asleep quickly, holding you close to him, enjoying the moment of comfort you brought to him as well.

You two slept all day, cuddled up to each other in warm cozy embrace.

With the peace and quiet you finally rested, as you both deserved.

© noira-l 2024 | all rights reserved. do not copy, translate, modify, or redistirbute my work without permission

tl (open): @kalopsia-flaneur

[queenie-ofthe-void]

“Led Zeppelin? Never heard of them,” Steve lies, like a liar. Of course he’s heard of them, thinks maybe Hop’s mentioned them before. Doesn’t really know the band well, and probably definitely couldn’t name a song. But the comment serves its purpose, and the trap is set.

Eddie calls it the Zep Campaign. Every day they’ll listen to one album, and Steve will pick his favorite song from each. Eight days for eight albums. On the last day, they’ll narrow it down to one song to rule them all– because apparently even Led Zeppelin likes the Mordor books Dustin doesn’t shut up about. 

Each day, Steve struggles to pick a favorite. Day four isn’t bad– doesn’t mind a song that is actually called Rock and Roll, which is just a lazy title in his opinion– but they’re only half way through and the songs are all starting to sound the same. An endless stream of too-fast guitar melodies and weird, wobbly sounds he’s sure he’s never heard before. The vocals are his favorite part, but the lyrics are vague and confusing.

Long story short, he’s not a fan.

But this growing thing between him and this ridiculous metalhead is new, fragile. So if it’s important to Eddie, it’s important to Steve. 

“Stevie, we really don’t have to keep doing this,” Eddie concedes. It’s day eight, the final album, and he thinks even Eddie might be desperate to listen to something different. “You’ve listened to every other album and honestly this one is the worst. They were all on drugs, and this isn’t even their sound ya know? Like it’s not even real metal.”

And honestly, Steve does know. He’s been listening to this band for eight days and yeah, all the songs sound the same. But these ones are different. Softer. He’s made it this far, and he’s nothing if not persistent for the people he loves.

Sprawled out on the floor next to the boy he likes, passing a fading joint back and forth, he thinks he can suffer a bit longer. 

“No Eds come on, we’re halfway through anyways. Just flip it over and we’ll smoke while we finish.” Eddie huffs a sigh, but Steve can see the slight uptick of his lips, reminding him of why he’s doing this. He flips the record and crawls back, presses himself flush up against Steve’s side.

The next song is long, too long to keep his attention. They burn down their joint and Steve leans heavily onto Eddie’s open chest. He gets lost staring at the vinyl art. A guy dressed in a fancy white suit sits alone in a dive bar, the only splash of color against a dull background. The bartender looks gruff, like the rest of the bar, making the man stand out even more. He wonders if that’s how he looks posted up at the Hideout during Eddie’s shows. Wonders if he looks just as out of place in Eddie’s life as this man does, even though he looks comfortable there too. 

Eddie shifts his arms around Steve, bringing him back to the present. The song has changed and Steve feels the slow melody wash over him.

“Wait,” Steve cries out, flailing up and out of Eddie’s arms as he registers the new song. It’s soft with a steady beat. It’s got synth-- the sound Eddie told him he likes in pop music. This song isn’t loud and chaotic like the rest. The voice is soothing and the lyrics are mostly simple enough. It’s different, and he can’t believe it but–

All of my love, all of my love

all of my love to you, oh

“This one. I like this song. Like actually like it.”

Eddie sits up and stares at him. He can see the dramatic shock and annoyance on Eddie’s face. But it’s doing nothing to hide his broad smile and shining eyes. 

“Steven. Stevie. Baby, sweetheart, this absolutely cannot be your favorite Zeppelin song. Out of all the songs on all the albums and all the hours of poetic melodies I’ve forced upon you, you choose the most non-Zep Zeppelin song.” Steve laughs sweetly as he watches Eddie fail to keep the glee out of his supposedly annoyed voice.

The cup is raised, the toast is made yet again

One voice is clear above the din

“This song isn’t even metall!" Eddie screeches. He rants and raves, waiving his arms as he regales Steve with all of the reasons he should absolutely not like this one particular song. He's shining with happiness, dial turned up to a hundred and it's all aimed at Steve. He can't help but to gaze back fondly, enraptured in the adorably obnoxious spectacle.

"It’s all synth, almost no guitar because Page didn’t even write this one! He wrote all of them except two songs, Stevie, and of course that’s the one you chose. No one who knows good music even likes this album. It’s not even metal music and honestly I almost didn’t show it to you, that’s how bad it is!” They're both giggling, leaning falling slowly into the other's space. Facing one another, their feet tangled together, Steve twists and pulls on Eddie's rings. Just to touch.

“Well, maybe that’s why I like it,” Steve snarks, taking his hand. “Plus it’s a love song.” Daring to reach out.

All of my love, all of my love, yes

All of my love to you

Eddie’s smile dims a bit, softens at the edges as he grows serious. “It’s not a love song Stevie, not like that.” He’s looking at Steve but he isn’t. Looking past him into the back of his thoughts. “The lead singer, he wrote it for his son. His kid died of some kind of bad illness while he was on tour. Didn’t make it back in time.”

He pauses, and Steve waits. Knows Eddie has more to say, hoping his patience will pay off. Eddie’s sight refocuses and he heaves a heavy sigh. His eyes glisten as they lock onto Steve.  

“My mom used to sing it all the time. While she was cooking, or putting me to bed, or pulling weeds in the garden. She’d sing it constantly. Hell, she didn’t even know all the words, but she’d still try and sing the interludes– ya know, the music between the lyrics.” He laughs lightly, a stray tear just barely hanging on. Steve tightens his grip around Eddie’s hands and presses a kiss to his knuckles. A silent sign of gentle support and encouragement. 

“Sounds like a love song to me,” Steve whispers. Leaning forward, he presses a kiss to his forehead and pulls Eddie into a tight hug. 

All of my love, all of my love, to you now

“A love song just for you, from both of us.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I've always headcanoned that Eddie loves Led Zeppelin, because he plays guitar and loves metal and reads Lord of the Rings so of course he would.

[funlovinzara]

Sukuna x reader “Your boring…and basic.”

Warnings: sukuna is very degrading, angst, threats

Your Yuji’s girlfriend, you stayed over at his dorm in jujutsu high because you didn’t feel good and he insisted you stay to rest..you’re a bit scared about your safety.

A/n: Im still sick while writing but i feel a-lot better today so i might as-well get something out for the time being💥

—————————————————————

It felt like you just got hit by 10 trucks. You don’t know why Yuji insisted on letting you stay in his dorm, he was only gonna get sick too. But you were really comfortable in his bed, it was really pillowy, soft and a bit bouncy which made you fall asleep nearly 3 times.

But you didn’t want to sleep yet, you wanted to wait until Yuji came back at least. You haven’t gotten to see him all day and you really missed him, but at the same time if he were to return by now and you were still awake he would scold you by saying “Sleep is the most important part of recovering during a sickness!! Go to bed!!” I mean you didn’t really care though, as long as he came home safe.

This was almost your 4th time falling asleep until you hear the door swing open, you turn on the other side of your chest to see Yuji finally walk in.

“Yujiii…..” you slur trying to say his name but it comes out in a groggy, sickend voice.

“Hey…im gonna go shower. Im tired.”

He shuts the door violently, the dorm room shaking in response. Thats odd. Well maybe he probably had a bad day is all, but that was still weird with the very short greeting. Oh well, He’s back safe. You and Yuji have been together for a while now, he was the one who confessed first but you needed a LONG time to think about it. Why? Because of Sukuna duh!

If Sukuna came out ANY time while you two were together its gg’s for you, thats why it was so hard to date him. Besides Sukuna you loved Yuji a-lot but with that curse basically bound to him for life it’s scary. Well hey, bonus points for Sukuna being attractive but those measly points don’t add up to the other tall rack of points of him killing you. Why did you even give in? Because love is a sick thing.

You love Yuji so much you dated him anyway regardless of the fact that a deadly, unmerciful curse was latched to him at all times watching you from place to place, hour to hour, minute by minute. Snapping back into reality, your were completely zoned out while Yuji was showering. You heard the water turn off and you decided to turn back on your other side not facing him.

You hear the door open and footsteps walk throughout the dorm room, was he looking for something? Ah right, earlier that day you did fold his clothes and put them somewhere else for the time being.

“If you need your clothes there in the little cabinet…”

“Thats not what i need brat.”

You froze. Your heart beating quicker…and quicker…Oh my gosh.

Please, please please tell me this is just a prank he set up with his friends. It’s just a joke…it’s just a joke..

You’ll be fine! You’ll be fine. Your mind is racing with possible outcomes, are you going to die?? What do you do what do you do.

Very slowly, you turn onto your other side again and land your eyes on Sukuna who was digging through Yuji’s bag, with only a towel on his waist. He looks up at you and you flinch.

“Do you have a staring problem human? Your in your weakest state, i could kill you right now.”

The air in the room gets thicker and tense, you don’t know what to say. The pressure is too much to bear..

“Sorry.” Was the only word you could push out, he was right. Maybe if you were fully recovered you could be able to put up a fight. But not for long anyway…Sukuna is strong. You take your eyes off of the curse and look into a corner of the room, but from the corner of your eye you can see Sukuna walking towards you. He examines you, your face, your eyes, and your nose, that is drooping extremely because you’re too scared to move and wipe it.

“Pathetic.”

You’re on the verge of pissing yourself, this was the most scariest encounter of your entire life.

“This is what this Yuji brat is into? I can tell you’re so so weak. I can crush this boy’s dream and end you.”

He grabs you by the neck, it was already hard to breathe because of your nose. So all you could rely on was your mouth but your throat was getting clogged more and more by his hand. He lifts you up to look at you even closer, handling you like a rag doll.

You were choking and struggling to breathe, you could feel death pulling on your leg. That is until he lets you go, your body flopping on the bed hardly moving because of how sore you feel.

“I find absolutley no pleasure in killing you, at least not today.”

What the heck does he mean by that-

“But, I’ve never seen you try your hardest. I will test you, i wanna see if you’re as good as this Itadori boy says. If not, you deserve to die. Your boring…and basic.”

“You wench.” He spat at you before collapsing onto the bed. That…really hurt. Psychically and mentally. Tears slowly fall before you quickly stop them, you back yourself away from Yuji’s body, scared to see what will happen.

“Y/n…Y/n???”

He regains his humanity and looks up you seeing your frightened form. “Im sorry for what just happened i was too tired and i couldn’t control him-.”

“Yuji.”

“Yes..?”

“We should break up.”

———————————————

Umm i have a love hate relationship with sukuna💥💥💥

[poichanchan]

Hiii, someone relatively new to the phandom having just played through p5r, but can I ask how the swap au premise works? I'm curious what your own takes might be on how the situations for both joker and akechi happened to lead for them to be on opposite sides in comparison to the game! I tried to look it up a bit, but there's a lot of different headcanons, but I love your concepts so much I wanted to see if you had any particular thoughts on the setting :3

Hiiiii welcome to p5 brainrot jail haha! (genuinely though, welcome and im happy you enjoyed p5r!) Everyone has their take on swapAU, I specifically wanted to play with the idea of Goro and Akira swapping their ROLES ONLY.

In my AU Goro Akechi is still the son of Shido who is largely out of his life. Goro's life is a mess, his moms in rehab, and he is sent to Tokyo on probation (to his mother's friend Muhen the owner of JazzJin). I've adjusted Goro's life just enough to have him keep his childish love for justice. He finds his found family in the PT. Goro is a Snarky, whole, intelligent, a little mean, energetic, gets flustered, but also is passive and observant when he needs to be. HIS ROUGH LIFE MADE HIM GRUFF AND HONEST BUT HE ISNT JADED. Akira hates how shallow and transactional his life is. He has his awakening, ends up on Shido's radar via the research group he has in place to explore and exploit the metaverse. Akira's parents probably work around the research team somewhere and didn't think too hard about what they were getting their son into... a mix of negligence and wanting to get more opportunities as a family/bootlick. From there he has his forced 2nd awakening and gets ensnared in Shido's conspiracy. There is a lot of resentment in his life because of this, and when he is faced with Goro's existence, the literal SON OF SHIDO WHO HAS THE SAME POWERS yet life turned out so different for him because their roles are swapped its terrible. Akira is also very good at adapting to who he talks to like in canon. He is good at socializing and charming, thus the detective prince facade becomes a thing to help him gain access to deeper levels of mementos blah blah blah

Akira is also rationalizing a lot, he is seeing himself weeding corrupt people out, a hero getting hands dirty and sacrificing self for greater good. The metaverse is his stage. And he is THE showman. Detective prince Akira is more sweeping/showy/charismatic/flirty, his joker vibe comes through more normally. APART from the resentment Akira has for seeing Goro live his life the way he does, the resounding ITS NOT FAIR he feels in his heart, he also reeeeeally want the stupid phantom thieves to 'cherish your normalcy. stop messing with my plan. how fucking naive do you have to be to think THIS is justice?' COLD SEETHING FOCUSED FURY FROM AKIRA Its such a mess lol But i think hit Akira in the places that would make him play out the detective prince and Black mask bits without losing too much of his own flavor. His rationalizing is important, otherwise i felt he would feel the moral conflict harder and withdraw instead of being showy and sweeping. Also for their social links i have thoughts, i think detective Akira's special place would not be... jazzjin. I think he would drop by like canon Akechi drops by Leblanc, but nothing more. I have in mind a place up high at a height, something like the Shibuya Sky observation deck as a place he personally visits often to reflect and stare at the massive view of the city from. It felt right to have him up there looking down alone but comforted by it. Plus eventually share the view with Goro who he sees as this actual fated rival for all the reasons above. Their outfits are the way they are because i did not want to change them too severely in colorpallette or essence but wanted to play up some parts of their personality and represent it in the outfits. AND BECAUSE THIS IS A SHUAKESHU BLOG I NEED TO STRESS THAT because they are less jaded, because Akira is bolder and flirtier and Goro is more stubbornly optimistic about this dark world akira sees, they get closer alot faster, which makes the whole black mask and interrogation room bit very messy/

added pix to make post spicier THIS IS A MASSIVE POST BUT IM GLAD YOU ASKED BECAUSE I DUMPED MY THOUGHTS IN ONE PLACE FINALLY. there are some other things ive thought out a tiny bit, like hobbies etc but i put them down later when ive developed it more etc @ anyone reading, thank u for reading and these are my personal thoughts i am thingying to entertain myself!!!!! dont be mean to me thanks ;v;

[kasdeyalilith]

A Love Too Late

Note: So the most voted character in the poll is Diluc! Almost beating Xiao by 1 % so I decided to add him too and another surprise character in another fic but knowing my works you already have some clues hahahaha. Anyways here's the requested piece also thank you all for voting and stuff it's super fun.

Warning/s: Angst

Character/s: Diluc x Reader; Xiao x Reader

Synopsis: Grasping at the end of the thread in the hope of rekindling the lost love with you, but they're too late because you've already decided to marry someone else.

DILUC

A knock echoes across the room before Barbara peeks in and told you that the wedding will begin. She excused herself, fidgeting in embarrassment, when she realized that you were preoccupied fixing your dress and checking your reflection in the mirror. A pathetic excuse, really, anything to delay making the most important decision of your life.

Marrying Kaeya was-is the best decision for you to make, after everything went downhill with Diluc he was always there to comfort and help you whenever you need it.

Yet there's always that nagging feeling that something is still missing, because even though you're happy with Kaeya now, the love you felt with Diluc is different. A love in its purest form that was ripped from you before you could even save it.

Loving Diluc will always be the best part of your life, but it's time to move on; even if you love Diluc, you know your relationship will never be the same again after what happened.

Sighing, you left your room tightly holding the bouquet of Kaeya's favorite flowers closely after making your decision.

You crossed the halls, counting the pillars before the looming door of the Cathedral came into view.

Caught up in trance you didn't even notice the shade of red before being led away. Your body, as if possessed, yields to his touch without even knowing who your captor is.

You have memorized and engraved that very scent and the curves of his hands, the dips of his shoulders.

He stopped walking but never let go of your hand, holding it closer as if you were about to vanish before his eyes.

“Don’t do it” he pleads

Head pounding from what’s happening, you drew your hand away in disbelief. Your eyes glaring at him as if anything could be so simple after what had happened.

“You don’t love him like I-”

“Don’t even start saying that bullshit again Diluc, we’re done and I know I’ll be happy with Kaeya”

His eyes shifted as the name of his brother leave your lips.

“By marrying him?”

He moves closer to you after he realizes you won't respond. His usual hard exterior is now bare and pleading as he stares into your eyes.

“I know all those things I did is unforgivable. I won’t even forgive myself but I am still in love with you (Y/n). I know I treated you poorly when you’ve been nothing but supportive and loving especially when my Dad- I shouldn’t have done all those things to you”

“But you did it anyway Diluc, I’m getting married now and the only thing you could do is to let me go”

“I can’t”

You faced him, your heart was burning and breaking so much that even crying won’t even be enough to show your pain, he's here expressing his everlasting love for you while in the past you've waited and waited for him to tell you that he loves you even if he's warming the bed of some woman he met at his tavern.

“You’re selfish you know that? Barging into my life again as if you can undo all that hurt you caused. Well shits been done Diluc, I’ve moved on and because I’m stupid and a pathetic excuse of a human I know that even if I marry Kaeya I’ll still care for you and that I can’t live without you but don’t make me prove that I can”

He moves to take your hand again but stops when you both heard someone running to your direction.

“(Y/n)? We’re all looking for you, if you’re having doubts and or anxious, I understand we can- what are you doing here?”

Kaeya's relief at seeing you was quickly replaced with a sneer directed at his brother.

“You’re not a part of this brother, best to leave us-” Diluc tries to hide you with his body but you stepped out of his reach before he can hold you again.

“No Diluc, we’re done here. Least you can do is respect my decision”

Turning your back to him, you keep your shoulders square as you brave your way through the halls.

You waited until the walls obscure your view of him before collapsing on Kaeya's embrace, silently crying on his shoulder as you ignore Diluc's shouts of your name.

XIAO

He could feel the wind shifting, he can trace the nostalgia gleefully dancing with the gale.

The yaksha leans into the breeze as he surrendered to it, his clothes flapping against the wind. It was almost like the sound of their laughter, clear and calming even against the howl of the wind.

“Haven’t seen you relaxed like this since forever” you teleported beside him

Xiao stumbles as he regains his composure, you’re always like this, even the vigilant yaksha can be caught lacking when it comes to you. Only you.

“What do you need (Y/n)?”

He tries to be stern, crossing his arms for good measure but blushes when you walk closer to brush a single leaf from his hair.

“I’m here to deliver this”

The adeptus was just opening the envelope you gave him when you started speaking, drumming your fingers against the wooden railing to hide the nervousness in your voice.

“It’ll mean a lot to me if you come Alatus”

A wedding invitation, adorned with red and crimson borders contrasting his teal blue hues. The sides of the paper crumples under his hand before he give it back to you.

“Don’t expect me to make an appearance, the adepti are very busy to even entertain such occasions”

“But Cloud Retainer and the others are coming! Even Morax and Barbatos and Ganyu even Madame Ping!” your voice reaching a note higher to make a point.

“Why even invite me? Besides you’re tying yourself to that mortal. A foolish act honestly, you’re an adeptus and you’re going to waste your life with someone whose life is but a fickle?”

“That mortal saved and loved me when I’m in my lowest-”

“And I do not?!”

Surprised by his outburst, you tried calming him down as you smile hesitantly.

“That’s not what I’m trying to say Xiao and you know it”

“Then leave me be, go and waste your life away with him. I don’t care”

“Let go of my hand then”

Xiao only glares at you, his grip on your hand never faltering.

“You’re always like this, you always push me away then act as if you love me back. I tried Xiao, I really did but I grew tired of all this. It was like always crossing a tightrope with you. When you ended the relationship, I respected that and still tried to be there for you because before all this you were my friend but I’m so tired Xiao. I don’t think I can even be in your life anymore”

“No. (Y/n), I- let’s try again. This time I promise to not hurt you so please don’t- I don’t think I can live in a world without you in it”

He speaks softly, his breath catching as he waits for your answer.

“If you asked me years ago Xiao, I would have said yes but I can’t betray Kazuha like that”

Xiao's heart breaks for you again as he gazes at you. He can't see the love you had for him in your eyes as you usually do, he can’t accept the fact that he’s too late and already lost you to someone else.

You sighed, used to him disappearing on you in the past, as he vanished in a whisp of curling black smoke before you could move. Unbeknownst to you, a teal feathered bird was circling the mountains of Liyue, his song crying of regret and heartbreak.

[legacyshenanigans]

Part 10 (part 2) to my Marvolo x MC series. This is so dramaticcccccc, but I personally love it and enjoyed writing it.😅

Marvolo x MC 💚

The Calm after the Storm 🐍

Little angsty, little fluffy, NSFW, DRAMA.

He sat at the edge of the lake in the Forbidden forest, since MC, it had become his favourite place, he stared out into it, all the times he'd spent there with her, flashes of them together playing on a loop in his mind, Rerek slithered next to him, looking at him, Marvolo turned his head to look back at him giving him a small grin.

Rerek: Urgh.

Marvolo: Heh..What?

Rerek: I see right through that fake grin you just gave me..

Marvolos face dropped slowly back into a thoughtful frown as he looked back towards the lake.

Rerek slithered up onto him, coiling around him like a comforting scarf, giving him a slight squeeze before resting his head on Marvolos shoulder.

Rerek: I've known you since you were a child, Master..You cannot hide such feelings from me..You know what you must do.

Marvolo: I know, Rerek..

Marvolo lifted a hand, giving Rerek a gentle scratch on his head.

Marvolo: *sigh* ...Let's go and see how this works out shall we...

Marvolo approached his home, stepping inside and heading upstairs. He took in a deep breath as he knocked on Ominis's bedroom door, hearing him call out to enter. He walked in, seeing Ominis relaxing sitting on a chair as he looked in the direction of the door before standing.

Marvolo: Its me.

Ominis: Oh, Marvolo.

Marvolo: Listen..Can we talk?

Ominis pulled a curious face, raising a brow.

Ominis: ...About?

Marvolo: About something..Important.

Ominis sat back down on the chair at the small table in his room, and gestured for Marvolo to take the other chair. Marvolo sat, his eyes not leaving Ominis.

Ominis: Father told me you are set to be wed..And that you kicked up a fuss about it..Has it got anything to do with that?

Marvolo: I suppose..In a way..I mean, yes.

Ominis: Well..Go on..Talk to me if you wish..

Marvolo: I shan't be marrying this women..I refuse.

Ominis leaned on the table with intrigue.

Ominis: Interesting...And whys that?

Marvolo sighed, his heart pounding in his chest..

Marvolo: I'm in love Ominis..For the first time in my life..I've found it..And I don't intend for a second to lose it..

Ominis's eyes stared in his brothers direction, he didn't say anything at first, just sat. Marvolo could tell he had something to say, as they simply made eye contact. Ominis spoke out.

Ominis: I've kept quiet..But I need you to be aware..That I know, Marvolo..

Marvolo: (?)....What is it you know?

Ominis: Its MC..

Marvolo froze, staring into the eyes of his younger brother, he didn't know what to say, though, Ominis didn't look angry, he didnt look uncomfortable, he didn't look upset.

Marvolo: ..How long have you known?

Ominis: a while..Though I must admit, love was something I never expected to be on the cards..I thought it was just..Sex.

Marvolo: ...And how did you actually find out?

Ominis let out a small chuckle.

Ominis: Rather uncomfortably..When Sebastian started acting a little weird..So I asked him to tell me what got him acting strange..He told me of the nights the..Three of you..Had spent together.

Marvolo felt slightly uncomfortable for a moment, and even blind Ominis sensed it.

Marvolo: Surprised you didn't instantly try and rip my head off...Or talk to MC.

Ominis: I thought about it..But times past since then, I calmed myself..Dont get me wrong, Sebastian got an earful..And it wasn't until at a later date Sebastian told me he tired to flirt with MC one evening and she turned him down..Thats when I knew something else was happening behind closed doors, you had changed slightly, and so had MC, and I felt that, Marvolo..I'm not stupid..

Marvolo: I love her Ominis..

Ominis: Do you really?

Marvolo: I really do.

Ominis sat for a moment in thought, Before he sighed, leaning forward and putting a hand on Marvolos shoulder, Marvolo looked at his hand, before looking back at him.

Ominis: She is my friend, Marvolo..A good friend..Just..Don't hurt her..Please.

Marvolo: I promise you Ominis...And I'm sorry its taken me so long to tell you..

Ominis stood, as did Marvolo, the two of them facing eachother, Ominis leaned forward and gave his brother a small uncomfortable brotherly hug, which surprised Marvolo, at first he didn't know what to do, then his arms came up and he hugged him back, after a moment the two of them pulled away.

Ominis: I will hold you to your promise..And I wish you luck telling father..You're going to need it..

Marvolo: *sigh* I know...Thank you, Ominis. For taking this so well..I didn't think for a moment that you would..

Ominis: *small chuckle* Life is strange, Marvolo. You being in love has proved that.

Marvolo: *chuckles* ..Very true.

When evening came, Marvolo and MC lay in bed in the private room of The Three Broomsticks. The last time the pair had been in that room was back when they were both confused about their feelings for eachother, they'd come a long way since then. MC lay atop of him, his hands running down her bare back as the two of them made out softly. Marvolo let out a small chuckle as he flipped her around, with him now being ontop of her, he continued the kiss, he tenderly kissed at her jawline, before licking down her neck and to her chest, his hands all over her, the pair of them letting out small desperate noises in this moment.

MC: God's..I love you.

Marvolo: Mmph..I love you too...

He moved himself down the bed, kissing her body as he did so, settling himself between her legs, holding them as he licked at the skin of her inner thigh, making eye contact with her. MC giggled blissfully, which always made him smirk, he brought his head forward, still looking up at her as he took that first lick, MC moaned, her head sinking back into the pillows, Marvolo gave a wicked grin before his tongue pushed up onto her clit, swirling, and flicking against it, his hand coming down, slithering its way to slide a finger inside of her as his mouth continued to pleasure her.

MC: Mmph, fuck, M-Marvolo~

Hearing the way she moaned his name was his favourite noise by far..He furrowed his brows, as he tongue moved faster, as did his finger, rubbing at her sweet spot. MC's hand gripped his hair as she felt that deep build up, letting her sinful moans leave her lips, she thrust her hips up crying out as she released, Marvolo gave her a smooth devilish chuckle of satisfaction, as he took in her essence. His body moved back up to her face, kissing her passionately, MC clung to him once more, her breathing heavy, tasting herself on his tongue. Marvolo brought a hand down to his cock, sliding himself inside of her, he let out a low growl, MC bit her lip, her slit now incredibly sensitive, moaning his name once more, they held eachother as Marvolo rolled his hips against her, their heavy breathing in eachothers ear. He eventually brought his hands down further underneath her, gripping at behind as he bucked faster, the postion now making him hit her deep. MC moaned erratically, clinging to him for dear life, Marvolo himself now letting loud grunts and moans escape him. He felt every inch of his body tingle as he gave a final push, spilling inside of her, a feeling he would never tire of, his head collapsed to her shoulder.

Marvolo: *panting* Mine. *kisses her neck before moving to lay down next to her*

MC: *breathless giggle* Likewise *turns to face him*

He ran a hand over her cheek, giving her a genuine smile.

MC: I'm glad Ominis was OK..About everything, when he spoke to me he seemed surprisingly calm..Having said that, part of him is terrified that you'll hurt me and break my heart. But another part of him believes you won't, after the talk he had with you..

Marvolo: ...I can't blame him, that's my usual nature..But I have never felt love for anyone like I have with you MC..I would never want to hurt you..You know that, right?

MC: I do.

Marvolo: I need you to believe my words..

MC: Truly, Marvolo, I do.

He pulled her in for an embrace. The two of them just lay bare on the bed together.

Marvolo: Good..*sigh* I must leave soon..To tell my father..

MC: I'm scared.

Marvolo: Don't be.

MC: You say that.. But I understand the risk, I understand how your family do things..I know this will not end well..

Marvolo: MC...I adore you, and want to be with you..And that's EXACTLY how its going to be..

MC: *small concerned smile as she holds him tightly*

Once back at his home, with Rerek by his side, Marvolo entered the living room where he knew he'd find his father, Aleister turned and stood, tooking at Marvolo with narrowed eyes.

Aleister: Ready to Apologise?

Marvolo: Pffft, for what?

Aliester: The Drama from the other evening..I hope to god you've come to your senses Marvolo, you're marrying that women.

Marvolo clenched his fists, as Rerek made his way across the room, hissing deeply, his eyes on Aleister, and settling nearby, but ready for action. Ominis heard the start of their conversation from the top of the stairs, and rushed to his room, enchanting a quill to write down his words.

"MC, come to the Manor, I feel you need to be here"

He quickly shoved the letter inside an envelope and let out a whistle near his open window, their family owl coming to collect it

Ominis: Take this to MC..Hurry.

And with that the owl flew off into the night.

Downstairs, Marvolo and his father were still having a stand off.

Marvolo: I'm NOT marrying her father..

Aleister: Why are you making this SO difficult?!

Marvolo: BECAUSE I LOVE ANOTHER!!

Aliester glared at him confused before he let out a wicked laugh.

Aliester: You've never loved another being in your whole DAMN LIFE Marvolo!

Marvolo: Well NOW I have! And I DO! It's her a want to be with! It's HER I love!

Aliester took out his wand, Marvolo quickly doing the same, as they aimed at eachother.

Aliester: *speaks through gritted teeth* ...Who?

Marvolo: *Spits back equally as aggressive* MC...

Aliesters eyes widened, his breathing becoming shakey and heavy.

Aliester: That DIRTY little half breed?!

Marvolo: Yes! The half breed!

Aliester: HOW DARE YOU TRY AND EMBARRASS THIS FAMILY!!! HOW DARE YOU WISH TO TAINT OUR LINEAGE!! *Growls and yells, shooting a spell towards Marvolo*

Marvolo dodged it, quickly yelling out and shooting a spell back at him, Rerek dived out with a hiss at Aliester, but he quickly and aggressively knocked Rerek out of the way, Marvolo gasped before giving his father an utterly furious look, both of them shouting, their bodies smashing into different areas of the room being hit with eachothers magic and the room itself getting destroyed in the process, Ominis came running in, panicked and angry.

Ominis: STOP THIS!!!!!

But Marvolo and their father were too filled with aggression to listen, both of them cut up and bleeding, hissing and hollering, parseltongue coming out in their anger.

Aleister: I CANNOT ALLOW IT MARVOLO, YOU KNOW I CAN'T!!!

Marvolo: ITS NOT FOR YOU TO DECIDE, FATHER!!!

The continued the fight.

Ophelia ran into the room, bewildered and concerned.

Ominis: Mother?! Do something!!

She was in shock at what she was witnessing. Rerek made his way over to Ominis, Ominis felt him at his leg.

Ominis: Rerek?!

Ominis knelt down on the floor next to Rerek, to not take the risk of getting hit with spells which he could hear were flying all over the place.

Ophelia: ALEISTER! MARVOLO! STOP!! STOP AT ONCE!!!!

The two still continued their rampage at eachother..

Aleister landed a hit on Marvolo, making him yell out and his wand flying out of his hand, Aleister had lost it completely, raising his wand for a final time.

Aleister: AVADA KEDAVRA!!!

Ophelia: ALEISTER!!!

Ominis: FATHER!!!

As the green bolt flew towards Marvolo, Rerek quickly dived up in front of him, taking the hit...His lifeless body hitting the floor, the green hue lingering on his scales.

Marvolo: NOOO!!!!! NO NO NO NO NO!!

Marvolo dropped to his knees, picking up Rereks body, staring at him, his breathing becoming shakey, as a tear rolled down his cheek, and his face twisting into pain. Aleister snapped out of his rage, and gasped, dropping his wand, and shaking.

Aleister: God's..Oh gods!!.. M-Marvolo, I-

Marvolo: *points at his father* NOT ANOTHER FUCKING WORD!!!!

Ophelia ran to Aleister.

Ophelia: Are you out of your mind?!!!!

Aleister: I...I don't..I..

Ominis sat next to Marvolo on the floor, a hand on his shoulder, as Marvolo cradled Rerek in his arms, holding him to his chest, silently crying. MC burst through the front door, seeing the mess in the living room and running in, she gasped at the sight, Aleister shaking in the corner in shock, Ophelia upset and concerned, Ominis and Marvolo on the floor..And Rereks body.

MC: Marvolo..

She ran over and got down next to him, her face looking horrified and devastated as Marvolo cried, whispering in parseltongue to Rereks dead body..Even Ominis's eyes were welling up with tears..She gently reached forwards, taking Rerek from Marvolos arms, he turned to look at her, puffy faced and red eyed with exhausted confusion..MC lay Rerek on the floor in front of her as the Gaunts remained silent, she closed her eyes and held her hands out over Rereks body, her ancient magic seeping from her hands themselves, a stream of blue energy pouring out over him, his body glowing, her nose started to bleed from this intense magic she was attempting to do, her hands shaking, she let out a sharp cry before her magic waned. There was nothing but silence for a moment..

Rereks body twitched slightly, making Marvolo move forward, wide eyed.

Marvolo: Rerek?!

Rerek: *groans* ..Master? What..What happened?

Marvolo grabbed him and held him.

Rerek: Woah..Heh...Ok?

Ominis moved forward and put his hand on Marvolos shoulder again, reaching out and giving Rerek a pet with a grin. MC smiled at them, a tear rolling down her own cheek, before looking over at Ophelia who gave her an understanding and thankful look, Aleister still in shock..

A couple of days passed, MC wandered into the Gardens of the Gaunt Estate, seeing Ominis and Marvolo sat under a tree, with Rerek lay on Marvolos lap. She approached them.

MC: Hey *grins*

Marvolo: *smiles at her*

Ominis: Hello *smiles*

MC: Not that I care..But how's your father?

Marvolo: Pfft. *chuckles*

Ominis: He will unfortunately be ok..Hes still at St Mungos, had some kind of mental break, it was a long time coming though..

MC: That doesn't surprise me..And how are you Rerek? *sweet smile*

Rerek slithered up her, coiling her, giving her a little squeeze, like a hug.

Rerek: Alive, thanks to you. *boops his nose against hers.

MC: *giggles* I'm sure whatever you just said, it was nice..

Ominis: Anyway, come along Rerek, we shall leave you both to it *grins as Rerek slithers onto him and he walks off towards the house*

Marvolo stood, giving her an endearing smile, wrapping his hands around her waist and pulling her into him for a tender kiss.

Marvolo: I cannot thank you enough.

MC: *smiles gleefully, wrapping her arms around his neck* You've thanked me plenty these last couple of days.

Marvolo: *smooth chuckle as he tucks her hair behind her ear* It will never be enough..

MC: *plants a kiss on his lips before pulling away* Well..You're welcome..I'm sure to find some way for you to repay me *chuckles*

Marvolo: *smiles* Anything, for my future wife..

~

[flurry-of-stars]

𝑀𝓎 𝐿𝑜𝓋𝑒, 𝑀𝒾𝓃𝑒 𝒜𝓁𝓁 𝑀𝒾𝓃𝑒

𝓟𝓪𝓲𝓻𝓲𝓷𝓰: Dad Sigma x Fem Reader

𝓖𝓮𝓷𝓻𝓮: 18+ content ahead First time, foreplay, cunnilingus, blowjob, penetration, no protection, climax (male and female)

No Abilities AU, wedding night, fluffy romance~♡ 𝓢𝓾𝓶𝓶𝓪𝓻𝔂: "You had been waiting for this moment for two years. You had always respected Sigma’s want to wait until marriage to go the whole way but now that it was almost time… You felt…nervous."

𝓦𝓸𝓻𝓭 𝓬𝓸𝓾𝓷𝓽: 9.2k

𝓐𝓾𝓽𝓱𝓸𝓻'𝓼 𝓝𝓸𝓽𝓮: Weeeeeee happy 100 followers, yayyyyy! ٩(ˊᗜˋ*)و ♡ Sorry it took so long, life, issues, blah blah blah, BUT IT'S HERE NOW (˶˃ ᵕ ˂˶) Actually, the part that took the longest was actually the opening part! I spent forever looking up and researching vows and stuff ( ≧ᗜ≦) It's been a few months at this point but I'm still super grateful to everyone who's followed, reblogged or even just liked my works. You guys are awesome! ( • ᴗ - ) ✧ Also WOW, this takes the place as my longest fic so far ( ≧ᗜ≦) Hope you all enjoy! ദ്ദി(˵ •̀ ᴗ - ˵ ) ✧ 𝕽𝖊𝖇𝖑𝖔𝖌𝖘 𝖆𝖗𝖊 𝖛𝖊𝖗𝖞 𝖆𝖕𝖕𝖗𝖊𝖈𝖎𝖆𝖙𝖊𝖉 ♡

The rich scent of freshly cut roses enveloped the air, tickling your nostrils with their elegant fragrance. The faint hint of salt from the nearby rolling sea mingles with it, creating a refreshing and invigorating combination that awakens all your senses.

A warm Spring breeze cascades the scent through the crowd gathered in cute pink and white chairs as the sun begins to dip in the horizon, as though it too would be watching the ceremony and giving its blessing to the newlyweds. The sky is a kaleidoscope of vibrant pinks and purples, matching the beautiful pastel decor to a tea, a few white clouds dotting the sky lazily as the string ensemble plays a sweet, heartwarming melody.

It tickles your heart, causing it to pound just a little faster in your chest. You can hear the rapid pulsing of it in your ears, your pale pink veil covering your face and, you hope, hiding the nerves bubbling up to be present in your eyes like an unwelcome wedding guest.

You steal a glance at your about-to-be husband, hoping you weren’t the only one who felt like you were about to throw up a swarm of butterflies. His two-toned hair is tied into a thick braid, dotted with pink and white roses- compliments of the children of his important guests of the casino.

His grey eyes that you’ve come to know and love are turned to the side, anxiously staring at one of the many buckets of flowers nearby.

You see the way his eyes dart about frequently, his lips moving as if muttering to himself. He isn't wearing a traditional suit but a light pink vest, a white dress shirt, and black dress pants. His familiar white high heels have been recreated and adorned with a matching flower pattern to go with the white frilled coat he has on. The ruffles of his coat are patterned with the same flowers on both his high heels and on your elegant, light pink princess dress, trailing down from the waist to the bottom of the beautiful gown. The sleeves of his coat have also been stitched to look like flower petals, fitting with the theme well. As the string ensemble quiets down, the wedding officiant, an older gentleman who has supported both you and Sigma since you first arrived at the casino two years ago, offers a warm, excited smile to both you and Sigma.

The joy in his smile makes his eyes sparkle as he clears his throat in preparation.

You offer a quick smile, glancing at Sigma, taking quick notice of his hands wringing together and the quick, deep inhales he’s taking, his gaze never remaining in one spot for long.

With a small smile, you step the tiniest bit closer to him, capturing one of his hands with yours. He flinches in surprise, swiftly looking down at you.

His breath hitches in his throat as he gazes down at you, the sight of you in that stunningly crafted princess dress, your pink veil hiding the soft blush growing on your cheeks but not the reassuring, comforting smile on your face. The word heavenly comes to his mind but simply doesn't do you justice.

But Sigma is astute; he sees the nerves shining through your gorgeous eyes, brought to life by the artistic light of the setting sun.

Even though you’re anxious, you’re still offering him comfort.

A silent chuckle escapes him as he squeezes your hand. That familiar bloom of warmth, accompanied by the sensation of someone pounding against his chest with a mallet from the inside was so powerful, he thought the gathered guests would be able to hear it.

“Thank you all for being here today,” your eyes turn to the officiant as he addresses the crowd, your other hand beginning to fiddle with your bouquet as you listen with a soft smile. “I’m convinced that the foundations of a successful marriage begin years before the wedding day is even on the horizon.”

“Nothing has brought me greater pleasure than watching the lovely couple before you grow over the years. I could see the sparks of their relationship from the moment this young lady arrived to help clear our manager’s name.”

You feel warmth rising to your cheeks, a soft giggle escaping you, your hand continuing to gently wring the bouquet. Your now shy smile grows as Sigma looks away, a timid smile tugging onto his lips once more.

After a heartbeat, his lips quirk into a wider smile that radiates with warmth and gratitude. His eyes close for a moment. Were it not for you, he wouldn’t be a free man right now.

The officiant continues, his dark brown eyes falling on you. There’s overflowing gratitude in his eyes as he addresses you personally, “Now, I know both the employees and the guests of the Sky Casino have already personally thanked you multiple times over these past two years.”

“But I just want to take a moment to truly thank you. Sigma is like a son to me–” You suppress a giggle as you notice Sigma’s eyes snap open, his gaze darting away quickly, his brows furrowing slightly as the officiant keeps speaking.

“--So I will always be forever grateful to you for saving him from a life behind bars. And for making him happier than I’ve ever seen him before.”

His eyes turned to Sigma, who slowly meets his gaze. He squirms, resembling a son bashfully introducing his first crush to his father.

There’s an almost fatherly look on the older man’s face as he nods towards you, “I have no doubt that you will, but please make sure to take good care of her, Sigma. You won’t find another girl like her.”

Sigma gives a sheepish smile, his grey eyes flickering towards you, his brows furrowing deeper as you offer a sweet, though bashful, smile. The officiant continues, “Why this foundation is so important is because a marriage will continue to build and adapt for the rest of your lives together.”

"This wedding isn't just a big, fancy party to show us that you love each other. It's a commitment to love each other now and forever, despite any challenges life may bring, and no matter how you both change in the years to come."

“It’s going to be hard work,” he continues, offering you both a playful smile, “But I’m sure after all you’ve been through together, marriage will be a walk in the park. It’ll feel more like a break to you both, won’t it?” You giggle quietly, your ears twitching as you hear a huff escape Sigma. Turning your gaze towards him, you see the warmth in his smile, his brows relaxing slightly. Your own smile grows as the officiant continues. “You both must feel anxious right now- I’m looking at you, Sigma.” The crowd chuckles while Sigma huffs, his face turning as pink as the delicate roses in his braid.

You can’t suppress a giggle as he continues, “But this shouldn’t be too scary for you both. After all, I think you both know this was meant to be.” “I’m sure I speak for everyone here when I say we have no doubt you two are going to have a long and successful marriage. So with all that being said, I’m going to ask you both some questions so you can prove your commitment to each other.” He clears his throat. Your eyes wander, meeting Sigma’s gaze. His eyes look like pools of silver, ripples of nervousness trembling within the sea of warmth and devotion. You gaze into his soul as the questions begin. “Do you choose to be each other’s partners in life? Do you choose to respect and trust one another, to support each other, through good times and bad? Do you love what you know about one another today and trust what you do not yet know?” You take a shaky breath, exhaling all your doubts and anxieties as you look up at Sigma. His smile, once filled with anxiety, now radiates warmth and love as you speak together, saying, “We do.” The officiant’s lips turn up into a joyous smile as he nods, taking a step back, “Wonderful. Then I believe it’s time for your vows.”

He nods towards Sigma first, who flinches a little. He lets go of your hand, reaching into his coat a little hastily, patting around for a few moments. Then, he pulls out a folded piece of paper, unfolding it with shaking hands as he clears his throat. Your lips tug up, offering him an affectionate, reassuring smile, encouraging him to take his time. You watch his grey eyes almost frantically flicker between you and his vows. “I…ah…” He shakes his head, inhaling sharply. His voice steadies; the next words out of his mouth make you stand up a little bit straighter. “Cara mia.” At last, those moon-colored eyes meet yours. The bashfully loving smile that tugs itself onto his face makes your heart flutter, a familiar flame burning in your cheeks.

The moment he gazes into your adoringly beautiful eyes, his voice trembles again, the tremor in his hands growing. “I…I never thought this day would come,” he begins slowly, his voice soft, “True love was something I thought only existed in storybooks. Or was something that only those who were lucky enough to win the lottery of life would get to experience.”

You suppress a laugh as his cheeks flush to match the roses surrounding you both. The sound of ocean waves crashing against the rocks fills your ears as he continues. “I never went looking for ‘the one’ because of that,” he continues, his voice finally becoming steady. “Instead…my heart ached for a place to call home. A place where I felt like I could truly belong, surrounded by the people I cherish and care about. At first, that was the casino. I believed it would always be where my heart called home.” “That was until the day you walked into my life,” His smile grows, his gaze unwavering as he stares into your eyes.

A shiver runs down your spine as a rush of affection floods through you, creeping upwards and pooling in your heart and cheeks. His smile grows more tender as he reaches out, slender fingers caressing your warm skin.

When he whispers to you next, his voice is smooth and sweet like honey. It engulfs you in a warm, pleasant sweetness that finds its way into your ears, creeping down towards your chest, causing your chest to come alive like the fluttering wings of a butterfly.

“My cara mia. Being beside you makes me feel like I’ve finally found my way back home. You’ve made me understand that sometimes, a home isn’t a physical place. It’s not always a building or a location…that sometimes, home is a person.”

You shiver as his fingertips gently caress your cheek. You feel your lips tugging higher, your smile growing as your vision begins to grow a little blurry.

“I promise to love you for who you are, today, tomorrow and forever. Even during dark times, I will cherish you with my entire heart, protect you with every fiber of my being.”

His hand gently rests against the side of your face as you smile up at him, your heart fluttering and skipping in your chest.

“You are the person I want to spend forever with. I love you, more than words could ever truly express. You are my sun; I begin and end my day with you and I never want it to be any other way.”

You feel hot tears welling up in your eyes. You swallow roughly trying to keep your emotions in check. Your free hand moves up, intertwining your hand with his.

For a moment, you swear you can feel the love he has for you radiating from the very tips of his fingers. Your fingers lace together, slotting in perfectly between the spaces between his fingers. A silent promise of your unity and devotion.

The world around you fades, leaving the both of you engulfed in a small bubble of affection, your focus entirely on your about-to-be husband.

As you gaze into the depths of his eyes, now trembling and shimmering with unshed tears of his own, you feel a deep sense of peace finding home in the deepest depths of your soul.

Every word he speaks strikes the cords of your heart, eliciting the melody of your soul from within. A spark ignites within your heart that dances cheerily and merrily within the confines of your chest. In this moment, illuminated by the soft glow of the setting sun and the delicate aroma of roses, you come to realize that you have found your home in him as well. His presence is a balm to your own restless spirit. A beacon guiding you through life’s tumultuous waters. Your voice shakes with emotion, your vows already memorized from many wakeless nights of staying up rehearsing them.

But in this moment, they spill from your lips with a newfound sincerity and depth you couldn’t accomplish just rehearsing them in the mirror, “My love.” Your voice is barely a whisper. Yet that whisper is filled with unwavering conviction, “You are my rock. My shelter in the storm. My guiding light through the darkest of nights.”

Your hand tenderly squeezes his as you watch his smile curl upwards, reaching his eyes without a shred of anxiety remaining. “Even when we first met, you made me feel seen. Heard and eventually, loved in a way I never thought possible. You’ve awakened a part of me that lay dormant, waiting patiently for the right person to breathe life into it.”

A surge of emotions fills your entire body, making you tingle down to the very tips of your toes. Gratitude swells in your heart for the man who stands before you with tears sparkling in his eyes. He’s ready to embark on this journey of eternity together with you. “I love you Sigma,” you whisper in a voice overwhelmed with love.

“If I could weave my devotion for you into the stars so you could see it every night before bed, I would in a heartbeat. I would make the night sky shine for you with my love. I promise that I will always love you, today, tomorrow and forever. For all eternity…” The words spoken between you both resonate in the air, wrapping around the two of you like an invisible thread, intertwining, binding your souls together as one. You can sense the weight of each promise made, each vow made, setting into the very foundation of your hearts.

In this moment of vulnerability, love and devotion, time seems to stand still, as if the universe itself is holding it’s breath, witnessing the powerful connection forming between you both. You feel that small bubble of intimacy fading away, leaving you both standing beneath the night sky as the stars above twinkle to life like late guests, racing to see the moment of your unity.

The sweet fragrance of roses surrounds you both once more, a gentle whisper of a breeze caressing your skin, teasing your veil almost playfully. With a smile radiating nothing but pure love, Sigma reaches up, finally pulling your veil back revealing your soft face as the tears begin to fall.

He cups your cheek with his free hand, his touch delicate. His thumb caresses your cheek, wiping away the tears as they trail down your face. As you gaze into each other’s eyes, a deep sense of understanding passes wordlessly between you, a silent agreement that transcends any need for spoken words or promises.

In this very moment, you know with unwavering certainty that your souls are intertwined in a dance as old as time itself, destined to walk through life together hand in loving hand, come what may. Six little words reach both yours and Sigma’s ears, too soft to break the spell of love you find yourself under, “You may now kiss the bride.” You can hear the roar of blood pounding in your ears when Sigma leans in closer, his grey eyes locked onto yours with a tenderness deeper than anything you have seen from him before.

Your heart flutters in your chest with anticipation, like the beating of a thousand butterfly wings, your legs feeling like they're made of jello. The world drifts away completely once more until only the two of you remain, cocooned in a moment that feels suspended in time. As his lips meet yours, a surge of emotions rushes through you like a crashing tidal wave. Love. Happiness. Gratitude. A deep sense of fulfilment and belonging. The kiss is soft, pure as the driven white snow yet filled with an intensity that strikes that spark dancing in your heart into a burning flame within, setting fire to a passion deep within your soul.

His lips melt against yours perfectly. As if this moment was always destined to happen, written a millennia ago into the stars. In this fleeting eternity of a moment, you feel the warmth of his touch and the delicate softness of his lips and realize that this is just the beginning of something beautiful. The beginning of a journey filled with laughter and tears, challenges and triumphs. But most importantly, a journey filled with an abundance of love shared between two kindred souls who have finally found their way back home to each other. The sound of applause finally breaks the spell, drawing your attention back to the beautiful world around you. Gathered friends offer their joyful congratulations, their faces alight with smiles and tears mirroring your own. As your pure kiss is broken, you gaze up at your beloved, your hearts overflowing with love and gratitude for this moment of vulnerability and intimacy, shared amongst you, your new husband and those you care the deepest about.  ⋆⁺｡˚⋆˙‧₊♡₊‧˙⋆˚｡⁺⋆

Your arms wrap tighter around Sigma’s shoulders as he carries you carefully upstairs towards the penthouse of the luxurious hotel you would be spending your first night in as newlyweds. The smell of alcohol lingers on both of your breaths, but thankfully you were both only a little tipsy. Both of you wanted to remember this evening after all. In all honesty, you would’ve been more than fine staying in the Sky Casino. Sigma’s- and now your- bedroom was the perfect blend of comfort and pure, artistic elegance.

Sigma was the one who insisted on spending your first night as husband and wife somewhere outside of the casino. As you arrive on the top floor of the hotel, Sigma carefully lifts the keycard for the door, pressing it against the identification device. The screen lights up green and you hear the door satisfying click unlocked.

You reach out, Sigma’s hand over yours. You look up, the corners of your lips tugging up into a small grin, "Ready?" "More than ready," Sigma whispers, offering you a sweet smile in return as you open the door together. The penthouse is nothing short of magnificent. The floor-to-ceiling windows catch your eye first, offering a panoramic view of the city skyline, glowing and glittering like a thousand fireflies in the night. Grey walls and ceiling surround you, contrasting with the soft, cushy white carpet. In the entry room, a mini crystal chandelier hangs from the ceiling, above a glass table, rimmed in gold.

A gift basket is carefully placed on the glass table, containing an expensive-looking champagne bottle and some other goodies. A small envelope is in front of the white wicker basket, reading ‘To the newlyweds~’  You see a small set of black stairs nearby, leading up to another room. The bedroom and bathroom most likely. Sigma walks forward, still cradling you, his precious wife in his arms as he approaches the view. He pulls you closer, inhaling softly as he looks out across the city. “Isn’t it beautiful, cara mia?” You shift in his arms as you look across the city skyline. It was impressive, sure, but– “It doesn’t compete with the views the Sky Casino has,” you fondly reply, turning your head to smile up at Sigma.

He returns it with a warm smile as he leans in to press a gentle kiss to your lips. You return it softly, savouring this delicate moment as husband and wife. A rush of warmth and contentment washes over you; this is exactly where you’re meant to be.

As Sigma’s lips rest close to yours, he murmurs against your lips, “The Sky Casino may have the more beautiful view, but I’ll make sure we make some beautiful memories while we’re here to make up for it…” A shiver runs down your spine in anticipation of what is to come, heat pooling in the depths of your stomach and cheeks as a few flustered sounds escape you.

Sigma, his cheeks returning to that same pink shade as the roses at your wedding venue, chuckles softly, though a tad timidly. He carries you towards the stairs, each step he takes making your heart beat a little faster, a mix of excitement and anxiety beginning to form in your chest.

You had been waiting for this moment for two years. You had always respected Sigma’s want to wait until marriage to go the whole way but now that it was almost time… You felt…nervous. What if, after all this time, Sigma still wasn't ready? You would understand and respect his decision, but you dreamt of starting a family with him.

More than that, you longed to demonstrate the depth of your love for him. You yearned to show him the extent of his significance in your life, not just through words but also through physical affection.

As you reach the top of the stairs, Sigma carries you into the spacious bedroom, into the luxurious space that would be your intimate sanctuary for the evening.

The soft glow of candlelight dances across the room, delicate pink rose petals are scattered across the white sheets and fluffy carpet, their scent lingering in the air. Your cheeks burn like a fire, the intimate, romantic aura of the room washing over your being instantly as Sigma walks forward, setting you down on the plush king-sized bed.

He kneels on one knee before you, his hands gently working to remove your high heels. His fingers are delicate as they trace your ankle, slowly removing each shoe and placing them at the end of the bed. Then, his hands envelop your waist as he gazes up into your bewitching eyes. Without breaking eye contact, his hand lifts to caress your cheek with a tenderness that makes your heart swell with all the warmth of the candles surrounding you.

His touch is like a gentle breeze on a Summer’s day, comforting and reassuring. You feel your worries starting to melt as if his fingertips are delicately drawing them out of your body with each caress. Your heart surges, each beat replacing your anxieties with bursts of desire and love for the man kneeling before you. The flickering candlelight casts mischievous shadows on his face, accentuating the strong lines of his jaw and the softness of his lips.

His eyes, the shade of polished silver, glimmer like precious jewels, gazing up at you with pure adoration and love. Just by looking into his eyes, you know that you’re the centre of his entire universe.

At this moment, every aspect of him seems amplified, making his appearance even more stunning and ethereal to you than ever before.

When he speaks, his voice is a whisper, barely above a breath. His voice echoes with the same intensity it did when he spoke his vows to you hours earlier, “Cara mia…oh, my cara mia…my heart has always belonged to you.”

His thumb caresses your cheekbone delicately. “From the moment I met you, I knew that you were the one I had been waiting for.”

“And now–” He holds onto your waist with a firm grip as he stands up, gently helping you to lay back on the large, plush bed. You let out a small gasp as you sink into the soft mattress. “--If you will permit me, I want to show you just how truly and completely I love you.”

His words linger in the air—a promise of unwavering devotion.

You’re drawn, captivated by the intensity of his silver gaze. The weight of all your years of shared moments together has led up to this.

He leans in closer, his breath warm against your skin, sending an intense surge of anticipation and desire through your veins. With a tenderness you’ve always known him for, his lips trace a path of featherlight kisses along your jawline, down the curve of your neck. A soundless gasp escapes you, your hands raising to lightly grasp at his arms, feeling his strength and warmth under his clothing.

The sensation of his lips against his skin makes you tremble, that flame that was once confined within your heart igniting into a blaze that envelopes your abdomen, pooling in the depths of your stomach before finding its way between your legs. Sigma’s touch is gentle, yet growing more eager as his lips explore your skin.

One of his hands moves gently, caressing one of your shoulders while his lips trail along your other collarbone, a soft moan tumbling off your lips as you hear the gentle thump of his own high heels hitting the carpet as he kicks them off. As you feel your panties grow more damp, your body arches into his careful touch, his hand moving up to touch your neck. His fingertips stop at the fluttering pulse in your neck, caressing your soft flesh with a gentle touch.

You can feel the hunger in his touch and yet he remains delicate and slow. At last, as his hand gently grasps the back of your neck, Sigma’s lips finally reconnect with yours- this time, more hungrily.

You groan, eyes slowly closing as his tongue slides against your bottom lip, his teeth gently nibbling against the plush flesh, encouraging you to part your lips for him. Your hands begin to roam upwards, gently caressing his slender shoulders and down his back, your hands aching to touch the flesh beneath his clothing.

Your hands begin to move back the way they came as Sigma’s tongue slips gently into your mouth, encouraging you to moan into his own as his tongue begins to explore your mouth. You try to unbutton his vest, your hands clumsily fumbling with the buttons as your tongue begins to wrestle with his.

You pant softly, quiet moans escaping both yours and Sigma’s lips as your fingers struggle with the buttons on his vest. But eventually, you manage to slip them free. A gasp escapes you, eyes fluttering open as you feel Sigma’s hand gently caressing your right breast over your wedding dress. His hand is delicate, curious.

His hand gropes carefully, his fingertips gently caressing it and eliciting another shudder and gasp of pleasure from you, your knees squirming and rubbing together. He pulls his lips back, panting softly in time with you. A thin line of saliva connects your mouths as your hands pause. You both go still, taking one another in.

Sigma’s cheeks are flushed a shade of scarlet, his silvery eyes full of a burning need for you, yet a desire to take things slow. “Cara mia,” the sensual way he rasps your name has your stomach doing flips. You swallow shakily, his hand trailing up to play with one of the small puff sleeves of your dress, “I think it’s time we got this dress out of the way.” You nod shakily, slipping your arms slowly free of the small sleeves, Sigma helping you out of the confines of your dress.

The silky fabric pools at your waist, exposing the matching floral embroidered lingerie you have on. The fabric is completely see-through, leaving nothing to the imagination. His breath hitches, his eyes darkening with desire as he growls huskily, “Ah, so this is what you were hiding under that gown.” His voice has a hint of a tease in it, his hands slowly moving up the curve of your waist, leaving a trail of fire in their wake. “I never knew you could be so...naughty~” You shudder as his hands glide across your belly before suddenly hesitating as they reach the bottom of your bra.

That fierce hunger is still present as ever in his eyes, and yet as his fingers move closer, he cups each of your breasts carefully. His eyes never leave your face, watching your reactions as you gasp shyly. His lips quirk up slightly; it was endearing to see you like this. Normally, you were the one who couldn’t keep your hands to yourself. You were the one who wanted to experience this intimacy with Sigma for two, long years.

Yet now, here you were, a shy mess under his touch. He swallows, his mouth suddenly becoming dry as he feels his trousers tightening. He becomes acutely aware of his own madly beating heart, drumming away within his chest. You had always been as beautiful as a goddess to him, but right now, you were downright sexy.

He licks his lips as he feels his cock throbbing needily in his pants, his primal urges pleading with him to say to hell with it and take you right now. But he restrains himself. The air crackles with tension as his eyes gaze into the depths of yours, noticing the way they shimmer with desire and want under the flickering candlelight.

His hands move behind your back, his fingers fumbling with the hook for a few moments. As he works on getting your bra unclasped, he feels your hands pushing at his jacket. He takes the hint, moving his right arm back to shrug it free, before alternating with his left.

The fabric rustles as he throws it and his unbuttoned vest to the floor, leaving him in his dress shirt and pants. Unhooking your bra, he gently slides it off your body, tossing it aside, his eyes falling back to your breasts.

Before he can even consider touching your bare flesh, he feels your hands fumbling with the buttons of his dress shirt this time. A chuckle rumbles in his chest, his face warming with amusement as he whispers, “Need some help, dear?” “Why did you choose today to wear so many damn buttons?” You grumble, encouraging another amused snicker from him. His hands caress the back of yours as he begins assisting you. “I had to get you to take things slow somehow,” he teases softly, his hands handling the top buttons while you take care of the bottom ones. “Or else you would’ve thrown yourself on me like a wild animal.”

“Can you blame me?” You ask back, an amused undertone to your needy voice, “I’ve craved you for two years now. Do you know how hard it is to crave someone as hot as you?” Your admission of desire makes Sigma’s heart skip a beat, his cock throbbing a few times in his pants. He bites his tongue, holding back a groan. He leans in again, his forehead pressing against yours as he pants heavily, a deep growl escaping him, “Good god, don’t I. It’s taken all my willpower to not bend you over my desk somedays, cara mia.” A loud moan shakily escapes you, your body tingling and shuddering as you feel your panties growing damper by the second. Your hands reach up, frantically gripping at the last few buttons of his shirt when suddenly, his hand snatches up your wrists, pinning them down above your head. "Oh darling~" He whispers huskily in your ear, gently nibbling on your lobe. Your legs tingle and quiver as he continues, "It's our wedding night. We must..." He sensually licks your earlobe, sending shivers down your spine. "Take things..." His lips move to the corner of your jawline, placing soft kisses that make your heart race as he purrs sensually into your ear, "Slowly..." His lips continue to travel down your neck, leaving a trail of fiery and teasing kisses along your racing pulse. He grips your wrists tightly before pulling away to undo the remaining buttons on his shirt with one hand.

You tilt your head back, letting out a soft moan as he takes off his shirt and discards it with the rest of his clothing. As you lean forward to touch his bare chest and explore his toned muscles, his hands quickly move towards your dress still gathered around your waist.

You make a small noise of effort as you squirm and wiggle, freeing yourself from the dress as he peels away the layers of fabric. Finally, your soaked, see-through panties are exposed for him to see. More than that, his eyes finally get to soak in the sight of your pretty pussy. A low groan escapes him and this time, you see the hard bulge already straining against the fabric of his pants.

Your body trembles faintly, your palms beginning to sweat as your eyes stay glued to his hardening bulge. Sigma himself can’t seem to take his eyes away from your dampening arousal either.

His hands reach out, gently touching the soft skin of your thighs. His fingers glide up to your hips, his nails trailing down slowly and sensually, encouraging soft moans and sighs from you.

He watches every move you make. The way your chest rises and falls. Your eyes half close each time his fingertips trail close to your panties.

“You’re so soft, my love…” He whispers, a tone of admiration beneath the haze of lust. His hand wraps around your thigh, giving it a gentle squeeze, encouraging a soft sound of pleasure from your lips.

His other hand reaches up, gripping your other thigh, preparing to spread your legs. But he pauses. 

His gazes flits to yours as your breath hitches, your lips slightly parted as you softly pant, that heat burning intensely within you as he asks in a sweet, tender tone, “May I?”

Your heart beats like a drum as you swallow nervously. You gaze down into his fervorous eyes, burning with need as his touch remains delicate and sweet.

Your heart aches with a mix of anxiety, lust and love.

Your mind lingers in the grips of uncertainty and anxiety, your body aching to be claimed by the man you love more than anything else in this world. Inhaling softly, you slowly nod, whispering shakily, “Yes…please…”

His face brightens with a look of reassurance, his hand gently caressing your thighs for a few moments more, his eyes glittering with a mix of relief and hunger. His gentle smile contrasts with his hungry eyes as he takes a few extra moments to soothe you.

Once he’s sure you’ve relaxed a little, he gently spreads your legs, his pulse pounding in his neck.

His fingers move slowly, deliberately as they grip the hem of your panties, drawing the damp fabric down your thighs. His breath hitches as he catches a glimpse of your glistening arousal, the sight making him feel dizzy, his brain short-circuiting for a moment.

“Cara mia,” he whispers raggedly, his mouth feeling parched as he swallows roughly. It takes every ounce of his self-control to continue slowly pulling the lacy fabric down past your knees, towards your feet.

He groans deeply in arousal, his cock throbbing almost painfully in his pants now. “Oh, love…oh, you’re absolutely breath-taking…” With your panties forgotten on the floor, Sigma’s hands tremble eagerly as they trace the soft skin of your inner thigh. His short nails rake gently down the tender skin, earning more of those beautiful sounds from your lips.

The sight of his eyes, as pale silver as the moon, full of an intense desire to ravage you, yet still tender with the desire to take care of you, is almost too much to bear.

Wetness continues to gather between your thighs as he moves in closer, creeping slowly across the bed towards you, slipping between your legs as he parts them a little more. He looks at you like he’s absolutely ravenous.

You watch his tongue slide against his lips as he begins to lower his head towards your pooling heat. Your heart pounds wildly in your ears as your hands reach down, softly touching his silky hair as his tongue rasps against you.

Your legs tremble, a gasp escaping you as you close your eyes for a second, “O-oh god–” Your sentence is cut short as his tongue rasps along the length of your wet slit, the tip of his tongue lightly rolling against your little bundle of nerves this time, causing your hips to jerk upwards.

“S-Sig!” You cry out. You whine as you feel his hands gripping your hips, gently holding you down. His breath is hot and heavy against you as he takes his time savouring you.

Your taste, your sounds…he can feel his cock pulsing again, throbbing with desire, encouraging him to groan deeply against your slit. 

Your sounds of pleasure encourage him on, his tongue moving a little faster, a little rougher now. You taste heavenly on his tongue, your sounds a beautiful symphony for his ears alone. He could stay between your thighs like this all day and he would never get sick of your taste.

He feels your hands gripping at his braided hair, your moans growing more breathless as he laps hungrily at you, groaning and moaning like you're the best meal he's ever had. You can’t help but try and rock against his tongue as he feasts upon your juices. His hands move from holding your hips down to caressing your plush thighs, squeezing them tenderly as his tongue slowly delves inside of you, licking and caressing your inner walls inbetween lapping at your wet folds. “O-oh! Oh-oh, Sigma–!” You cry out, your legs squirming slightly as that fire begins pooling in your lower abdomen.

You feel a coil of tension tightening inside of you as Sigma breathlessly moans and groans against your pussy, his tongue dipping, thrusting more eagerly as he feasts on your juices. Then, one of his hands moves towards your clit, his index and middle fingers gently teasing the area around your nub. Your body squirms, your hands gripping tightly at his hair as his index finger finally makes contact and begins to rub. All at once, you feel yourself coming undone. Pleasure ripples through your body like jolts of electricity as a needy, pleasure-filled moan escapes your lips. Your hips jerk desperately without you realizing it as you come on his face. A rough moan escapes Sigma as he hungrily rasps his tongue along your slit, slurping, greedily licking up the juices you’re spoiling him with, the taste divine on his tongue while dragging out your orgasm.

You writhe slightly, gasping and moaning under his tongue as his fingers roughly tease your clit. “A-aanh ooh f– S-Sig, Sig!!~” You beg, your writhing growing more desperate. Your head feels hazy, pleasure shooting through your body like sparks of electricity as you wiggle, “T-too much!~ Too–” You gasp in relief, laying your head back and closing your eyes for a second as he finally pulls back, panting heavily. He sits on his knees, licking his lips, wet with your arousal as he purrs in a low tone, “Sorry darling, I couldn’t resist..” “You taste so good,” he moans, your eyes opening to watch his tongue glide against his glossy lips, his chest rising and falling heavily as he moves closer to you.

His hand reaches out, tenderly cupping your cheek as he leans over you, purring in a softer, more playful tone, “Would you like a taste~?” Before you get the chance to respond, his lips hungrily capture your own. Not waiting for permission this time, his tongue darts into your mouth, a low, muffled moan escaping you as you taste yourself on his lips. His tender hand moves from your cheek to grasp the back of your neck as he deepens the kiss, his lower half slowly pressing between your spread legs, the fabric of his pants straining against his hard, pulsing cock as he needily grinds against you.

Your eyes widen slightly as you pants softly against his mouth. Placing a hand on his shoulder, you give it a gentle squeeze. He notices the gesture, pulling back instantly as he leans over you, your heavy pants for air intermingling as he whispers, “What is it, love?” Swallowing slowly, your meet his gaze for a moment before your vision trails its way down, your body shivering as you see the way his cock is straining desperately against his pants.

Saliva begins to pool in your mouth in anticipation, your hand tenderly caressing his slender shoulder. “May I..?” The color of Sigma’s cheeks change as he shifts. You guide him with your hand on his shoulder to switch places with you as he chuckles softly, “Darling, this night was suppose to be about spoiling you.” As he lays on his back, you settle yourself between his legs, your hand moving down his body and caressing his bare skin. You smile at him affectionately as he groans under your touch, “It’s your wedding night too, love. You deserve to be spoiled as well.” He shivers under the soft touch of your fingers, your hands following a familiar path down towards his belt. With a praticed elegance, you unbuckle his belt smoothly, earning a small, amused huff from him, “Show off.” You giggle as you remove it, tossing it off the bed. It clinks to the floor as you flash him a teasing look, “You’ll get better with my bra in time, don’t worry mon ange~” Sigma blinks a few times, that soft color in his cheeks darkening as you curl your fingers around his pants and underwear.

He chuckles softly, suddenly sounding a touch more shy as he teasingly replies, “Finally picked a nickname, mm cara mia?” He reaches down, his fingers threading themselves soothingly through your hair, “I like it~” You giggle softly, pride swelling in your chest for a moment as you drag the last fabric of his clothing off, your eyes widening at how eagerly his cock springs up, standing at attention. Precum is already leaking from the tip.

You tremble, realizing just how aroused he is. “You’ve never been this eager before I’ve even touched you before,” you purr, your hands sliding up his thighs softly. You feel him tremble beneath your touch, a low groan escaping him as you move towards his swollen, pulsing erection. “Can you blame me?” He huskily whispers, his silvery eyes never leaving yours, “The sight of you all wet and eager for me..” He closes his eyes, a low moan escaping him, the sound sending ripples of pleasure down your spine. “God…I’ll never get sick of that view~” You gasp lustfully, his words sending another spark of electricity straight to your core as one of your hands ventures high. Your soft fingertips slowly caress their way up his length, delicately touching him.

He moans shakily, his hips already bucking faintly. A soft giggle escapes you. “Oh so eager,” you coo seductively in a hushed tone. Your fingers continue their slow, gentle path up to the head on his cock, rubbing your thumb over the tip, smearing his precum around. Sigma pants and groans, visibly more sensitive than usual as you crawl closer. 

Lowering your head, you lazily run the tip of your tongue along the tip, Sigma’s hips bucking up desperately, “Aanh!~ L-love..” He rasps, panting softly as he looks down at you with half-lidded eyes, “Don’t tease me like this…” You giggle, continuing to gently lap at the tip of his cock, letting your warm saliva run down his length, lubricating it more. You wrap your hand around it as it throbs, gently pumping your hand up and down as you coo at him, “But you’re so much fun to tease~” Each time your tongue licks at his tip, Sigma’s groans grow heavier, his eyelids twitching as they threaten to close. He hisses a breath between his teeth as he growls in a low tone, “You’re playing a dangerous game here, darling..” A smirk tugs at your lips as you take up his challenge. You keep licking slowly away at the tip of his cock, gliding your tongue along the slit while keeping eye contact with him.

You watch as his groans slowly become moans, one of his hands reaching down to run through your hair right as your hand reaches the base of his length and begins to gentle tease his balls. “O-o-oh f-f-f–” His head rolls back, a loud, shaky moan escaping him. A wave of mischievousness washes through you. You’ve given Sigma multiple blowjobs before but he’s never looked this vulnerable before, writhing and wiggling beneath your slightest touch. You listen as the sweet melody of his moans grow louder, encouraging you on. You carefully increase the pressure of your hand as you jerk his cock upward. His hips buck shakily, craving more of your touch and tongue and you can’t help but oblige. With each lick and stroke, your movements become more deliberate, causing Sigma’ response to grow more fervent.

He groans your name, his head shaking from side to side as he lays it back, the flowers in his braid coming loose around him as a soft, strained plea escapes him between his moans, “L-love, love, love, o-oh please baby–” His fingers weave through your hair, grabbing a fistful of your hair to hold you in place as you decide to give him what he wants. It is your wedding night after all. Your hand dips back down, teasing his balls as you take the head of his cock into your mouth, sucking softly. Your tongue traces the delicate curves of his sensitive head, the taste of his salty precum causing ripples of desire the ripple through you.

He gasps, his grip tightening on your hair as he feels your warm lips wrapping around him, taking him deeper into your mouth. His body stiffens, a small, strangled groan escaping him. You can tell he’s getting close. His breathing is laboured as he gasps, “Oh yes, yes…just like that, love…” The vibrations from the small, mischievous giggles that escape you drive him wild, his hips bucking up slightly, trying to thrust his cock into your mouth. But you gently hold his thigh, your other hand still gently teasing his balls as a hoarse, shaky groan escapes him. “B-baby…baby, I-I’m gonna–” Relaxing your grip, you pull back slowly, letting his glistening cock slide free from the warm, pleasurable confines of your mouth. Sigma whines, groaning in disappointment as he twitches and throbs, desperate for release. Before you get the chance to even catch your breath, you gasp at how quickly his hands reach out, grabbing you by the waist and flipping you onto your back again, the bed sheets rustling from the action.

You pant, eyes widening as you gaze up at his hungry silver eyes. However, despite how clearly desperate Sigma is for his release, he still manages to maintain control. He pants shakily, his breathing laboured as he grabs your thighs, spreading them again. Biting your bottom lip, you watch as he moves closer, the head of his cock pointing eagerly at your glistening pussy. “Cara mia…” he whispers breathlessly. One of his hands lifts from your thigh to tenderly cup your cheek. His thumb traces your soft skin, his brows furrowing in a familiar, slightly anxious gesture as he whispers in a tone strong with desire, but brimming with love, “Are you ready?” You swallow, those familiar butterfly wings fluttering in your chest once more. You reach up, placing your hands on his shoulders. You squeeze softly as you nod up at him, excitement pumping through your veins. This was it. “Yes…I’m ready…” However, much to your surprise, Sigma doesn’t move your passionate dance along. He squeezes your thigh, his other hand moving down to caress the curve of your waist as his tone becomes a tad more bashful, “Are you sure you don’t want me to put a condom on first?” His gesture elicits a sweet smile from you as your hands slide down his shoulders and gently caress his chest. You shake your head slightly in response, leaning in to press a soft, sweet kiss against his lips. The taste of him, familiar, intoxicating, sends another excited shiver down your spine. “We don’t need that,” you purr softly against his lips. “I want to feel you...” A small gasp escapes him at your words, your fingertips tracing his warm skin as his eyes soften at your words, the burning desire in his eyes now accompanied by adoration that makes that butterfly in your chest flutter faster. With a gentle urgency, he guides you to lay back down, his touch reverent as he trails kisses along your jawline and down your neck, sucking and nibbling gently along the way.

Every brush of his lips against your sensitive skin sparks a fire in you. Sigma’s hands move with purpose, worshipping every inch of you as if committing your very essence to his memory. Then, they find hold on your hips. He moves closer to you, the tip of his cock finally touching your glistening folds. A gasp escapes you. You can hear your heartbeat throbbing in your ears as you gaze up at Sigma, arms wrapping around his neck. “Sigma,” the breathless whisper of his name tumbles from your lips as tension builds within you. 

He leans down, his forehead touching yours as he gazes deeply into your eyes. Your warm, heavy breaths intermingle as he slowly starts to push inside of you.

The sensation of his thickness filling you encourages a low, drawn out moan of lust to escape you, your legs instinctively wrapping gently around his waist. As he fully penetrates you, a low groan rumbles from deep in his chest. His hands slide up from your hips to grasp at your waist, pulling you closer. He watches your every expression, listens to every noise you make.

Once he’s sure you’re okay, he slowly begins to thrust into you. “Aaah..” A fluttering moan leaves you as he begins to move, setting a rhythm that leaves you feeling weak in the knees. Your eyes drift closed, your nails digging into the soft skin on his back, urging him to go deeper, faster.

It takes him a few seconds to understand your silent cue, but slowly, he begins picking up the pace. “C-Cara mia…oh love..” He moans breathlessly, whispering sweet words of endearment between gasps. His hand glides up from your waist to fondle your breast. You can't help but writhe and moan as he combines rough thrusts with gentle touches. The sensations overwhelm you, pleasure surging through your body at his skilled touch and the way he caresses your nipple with his thumb. Your legs lock tighter around his waist, your nails scratching down in his back, making him groan loudly in pleasure, his thrusts growing more fervent, his moans of pleasure more frequent.

Each thrust, grind and brush of his hips against your makes that fire inside you burn more brightly, pushing you towards a climax that threatens to consume you. A cry of pleasure escapes you as you arch your back, meeting his every thrust with equal intensity. His lips find yours, his kiss more fierce and hungry now, filled with the raw passion that burns through you both. The sound of skin slapping against skin, of hands grasping, squeezing and caressing and bodies moving fill the candlelit room, along with yours and Sigma’s gasps and moans, creating a symphony of pleasure made for just your ears. Sigma thrusts begin to lose their rhythm as he moves faster, more sporadic as he sinks deeper into you.

Your toes curl as his cock finds the sensitive spot inside you, your pleasure increasing suddenly, “O-oh fuck, S-Sig!!” You cry out, your legs tightening desperately around him, whimpering in a delirious tone, “Fuckfuckfuck–!!” “Oh god, cara mia…god, god you’re soooo gooddd…” Sigma breathlessly groans, his eyes tightly shut as he chases his climax.

His thrusts become more erratic as he pounds into you, desperate to reach his high. Panting heavily, his voice becomes a beg as he moans, “Come with me…oh god, god my love, come with me, please…!”

At once, you feel that fire in your lower belly overwhelming you as your climax floods through your body. You finally move your forehead from Sigma’s, throwing your head back into the soft, white plush sheet under you as you cry out in pleasure, “S-Sigma…Sigma, o-oh fuck, fuck I-I’m coming–!!”

A deep groan escapes Sigma, the sheer intensity of your orgasm taking him by surprise.

His eyes shakily open as he grunts and growls, his thrusts growing wild as he buries himself deep inside of you as he spills into you. His lips desperately find your neck again, kissing and biting gently but swiftly, his breath heavy and hot against your flushed skin.

Finally, as the last of his climax spills into you, he slumps against you, his chest heaving. His heart drums violently against his chest, beating against your own, which aggressively flutters in your chest. You lay there, panting heavily as you bask in the afterglow of your passionate dance.

Your hand shakily raises, running through his now messy braid, picking the crushed, ruined roses from it for him. He closes his eyes, nuzzling his face comfortably against the side of your neck as your fingers work their way through his hair, removing the last, twisted remains of roses from his hair.

He rolls gently onto his side, tugging you closer into his embrace, creating a cocoon of exhausted but satisfied love. Sigma’s lips keep pressing featherlight kisses against your neck, tiny gestures of love and endearment as you run your fingers through his messy braid, soft, tender whispers of love being shared with each breath you both take.

You giggle as he kisses your cheek before he pulls away enough to gaze at your face, the burning desire in his eyes now replaced with tender devotion and love.

He cups your cheek, his thumb tracing it once more, “I think this was worth the two year wait. Wouldn’t you agree, cara mia?”

You give a small nod, a tired yet loving smile playing on your lips, “More than worth it, mon ange.”

Sigma’s eyes glow with fondness as he pulls you in for one last deep, passionate kiss, your tongue meeting and dancing with his as the final embers of overwhelming desire are extinguished.

The intensity of the kiss slowly becomes gentle and sweet, your lips tenderly meeting with his as you breathe in harmony, your heart pounding against your chest as if trying to reach out to his own.

Once the kiss is broken, Sigma pulls you into his embrace, your head finding its usual resting place over his heart. His fingers comb their way through your messy locks, twirling some between his fingers as your fingers create small, comforting circles on his chest.

“I’m glad we’re finally starting this chapter of our lives,” he whispers affectionately, his chin resting on top of your head. He cradles you close, continuing to twirl your hair between his fingers as your eyes flutter closed. “It’s a little scary but I’m looking forward to what the future holds for us.”

You find solace in his arms, his voice your own personal lullaby as you feel his hand caressing your back now, his fingertips gently tracing patterns on your skin.

You hum sleepily, your arms wrapping tight around him as you whisper, “Scary, yes...but as long as we’re together, we’ll manage, just as we always have…” A soft chuckle escapes Sigma as he lets his eyes close, his lips brushing against your temple, his voice growing even softer, “No matter what waits in store for us, I promise I’ll always be by your side.” As your eyelids grow heavy and sleep beckons you, Sigma leans in close and leaves a final kiss on your cheek.

"Rest now, my darling. Tomorrow marks the first day of our new beginning together…”

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*𝓣𝓪𝓰𝓵𝓲𝓼𝓽*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

@tecchoussuperlady @hearts4heidi @lovestruckbook @wixxlemuff @twinkaesop @livelaughyo @yonseibananamilk @honeyangelsblog @soggyoreoinmilk @verminthorr @lunarmin716 @cherridove @slowlyfoulenthusiast

18+ divider and pink sparkle dividers by @/anitalenia Wedding ring divider by @/steddiecameraroll-graphics

© 𝐹𝓁𝓊𝓇𝓇𝓎𝑜𝒻𝒮𝓉𝒶𝓇𝓈-𝟤𝟢𝟤𝟦

[riitah]

[late night talks] - geto suguru x gn!reader

SYNOPSIS: to put it short, you had insomnia. very bad insomnia.

ever since you found out about the jujutsu world and why you saw these strange creatures everyone insisted weren’t there all throughout your life, you just...couldn’t sleep.

so here you were, roaming the dorm hallways, your steps careful, light. but your peaceful stroll was interrupted by a certain classmate -- not that you minded, but still.

“what are you doing up so late, (y/n)?

WORD COUNT: 1.9k

HONORABLE MENTION: special thank-you to my beta reader “henry rumpelstiltskin III of the nuclear sock kingdom”! you caught a lot of typos for me in this one ✨

AUTHOR'S NOTE: This is like, just a fluff piece. More of spending time quality time with Geto than anything too intimate. High school reader and Geto 🎉

Also, falling asleep cuddling Geto sounds so comforting ngl

Trees. Branches. And the occasional (howling) whisper of the wind. Perfect for falling asleep.

For most people, anyway.

For you, it’s been at least 23 hours since you last slept. Only 8 if you counted the 30-minute nap you took during class. And four since you tried every method to get your brain to fog up like it did whenever your teacher droned on and on about the importance of controlling your cursed energy flow.

Please just let me sleep. The teacher’s gonna yell at me again for doing it in class.

The wooden ceiling only stared back at you, offering no support whatsoever.

With a sigh, you sat up. The bed creaked at the movement, and your blankets fell from your shoulders, exposing you to the chilly night air. You pulled your knees to your chest, waiting for sleep that won’t be due until probably a few hours later.

I wish I could talk to someone right now.

It was weird. During the day, you had so much anxiety about everything that you could barely concentrate on what was happening. But now that you had the time, there was nothing.

Though you could probably start with this pre-existing world that you had just been tossed into a few weeks ago. Your parents were more open-minded than you had thought and immediately agreed to enroll you into Jujutsu Metropolitician Technical High -- or whatever it was called, you didn’t really pay attention -- as soon as they realized it was safe.

You had snorted at that. Was the school safe? Maybe. But was the job it was preparing you for safe? Not at all. A part of you wondered if they had some bias to begin with; after all, it meant that the things you saw all throughout your childhood -- things that everyone thought were your imaginary friends though you had constantly denied it -- and continued to see throughout your middle school years were real, and you weren’t just crazy.

It did bring some comfort knowing that other people saw these things too, but other than that, knowing that you had to fight them someday -- for a living, too -- made your heart fill with dread.

Maybe this wasn’t the right path for you. You had always been content with taking over your family’s soba shop, anyway.

Is it too late to unenroll myself?

15 minutes passed in silence as you rocked back and forth, and the clock lighted up to show that it was officially 2AM. Deciding that there was nothing better for you to do anyway, you left the warm comfort of your sheets and sat on the edge of the bed. Your bare feet brushed against the cold floor as you felt around for your slippers, sending goosebumps rising all over your skin.

After a few moments, you had found them (somehow, they were lying all the way at the corner of the bed). Gently, you slipped into them, and then stood up. Hoping that the walls were thick enough to prevent the sound of your footsteps from reaching your dorm neighbors, you took light steps towards the door.

After making sure that nobody was on the other side, you slowly opened it, holding your breath. Thankfully, it didn’t creak on its hinges, and you exited your room.

You couldn’t describe it very well, but the air out here was crispier and sharper, somehow. The environment was still as unfamiliar as ever, however, and you longed to be back home, away from all of this nonsense.

You looked out the window. The moon was surprisingly bright tonight, illuminating the hallways and casting long shadows along the walls.

You took a careful step forward. No sound.

You tested the floorboards a few more times before you were comfortable enough to walk around without taking six seconds per step.

This is peaceful.

You quietly hummed to yourself as you walked down the hallway, trailing two fingers that occasionally bumped into the wooden framework along the cool glass.

“(Y/N)?”

A familiar voice suddenly interrupted your night stroll, and you jumped. You turned your attention away from the stars and directed it at the person who called out your name.

Suguru, you realized. He was your deskmate, and always had a friendly smile on his face whenever the two of you talked. You weren’t best friends, but you were far from acquaintances.

Far enough for you to have caught feelings for him and for you to crave for something more.

“What are you doing up so late?” He closed the distance between the two of you by a few meters, his tone concerned.

“I, was, uhm--”

You gawked at his face for a few moments. His hair, which was usually up in a bun, framed the sides of it, giving him an almost ethereal look in the soft lighting. And his features were--

“You were...?” he repeated, amused, dragging you out of your thoughts.

You cleared your throat, embarrassed. “Taking a walk. I couldn’t fall asleep.”

He had a thoughtful look on his face. “I see.”

“So. What are you doing up so late?”

“I needed a glass of water. The training was pretty intense today. Wasn’t enough to tire you out, though.”

“I think we both saw how I walked right into Mei Mei’s crow. It’s okay, you can laugh.”

He cracked a smile as you rubbed at the area where the bird had hit you with its beak. And it was starting to throb again.

“You wanna talk?”

“Huh?”

“You clearly have a lot on your mind.”

“Says who?”

He shook his head. “Keeping it all in isn’t healthy, so what’s up?”

You reluctantly agreed and sat down, leaning against the wall. He did the same, taking a seat right next to you.

“It’s just been kind of stressful lately. Actually, ever since I started coming here, I couldn’t fall asleep. Like at all.”

He nodded in understanding. “It’s pretty hard getting used to this place.”

“Really? You seem to be taking it all in pretty well, though.” Despite also coming from a normal, non-sorcerer family, he had fit right in at this school since day one. Unlike you.

He chuckled at your response. “Trust me, I’m struggling behind closed doors. But it gets easier.”

Does it, though?

“I’m really worried about everything.” You looked down at your hands, playing with your fingers. “I don’t know if I want to get involved in all this curse stuff. I don’t exactly have the courage to face these things, you know? I thought I just needed to deal with seeing them all the time, but no, I have to fight them, too.”

“I get it.”

“You do?” You looked at him, puzzled.

“To a certain extent. Sometimes I get anxious about dying and wonder if I made the wrong choice.”

“How do you...’get rid’ of that fear?”

“The thoughts don’t go away, but remembering that I’m doing it to help people helps a lot. By taking on this role, I’m helping those who can’t protect themselves from these curses. We sorcerers exist to protect non-sorcerers -- that’s what I believe, but it’s not wrong to want to run from it all. We just have to get stronger so our chances of dying slim down.” He tilted his head to one side, looking at you with a kind smile. “I personally think you’d make a great sorcerer someday, (Y/N). Even if you don’t think so right now.”

Your cheeks heated at his words. After mumbling a quick thanks, you changed the subject to something else, the majority of your anxiety seemingly having dissipated into the air after hearing what he said. He didn’t question it.

You didn’t know how much time had passed as you two talked about random things, the topics ranging from home life to funny moments at your middle schools. By the end of the conversation -- which was marked by your yawns slowly integrating themselves into your sentences and your slow responses -- you felt as if you had known him your entire life.

He walked you to your room’s door, still laughing at the story you told him earlier. “Well, goodnight, (Y/N),” he said, wiping a tear from his eye with a finger. “I was mildly annoyed at having to get out of bed, but I’m glad I did.”

You grinned back at him, your hand on the doorknob and twisting it. “Likewise.”

The door didn’t open.

You turned to look down at it, confused, and twisted it again.

Still nothing except for a rattling sound.

You glanced at the position of the door in the hallway, eyebrows furrowed. “I’m sure this is the right door...”

Oh, crap. I think I locked it out of habit when I closed it.

“Is it locked?” Suguru asked, peering over your shoulder. “You can sleep in my room if you want.”

Your heart skipped a beat at his offer, but you shook your head. “Yeah, it is. And I can’t do that.”

“If you’re worried about anything happening, I’ll sleep outside. Make yourself comfortable.”

“Wait, no, that’s not what I meant--” You turned to him and shook your head frantically. “Suguru, I trust you a lot. I just don’t want you to lose sleep. Especially since you stayed awake for me.”

“Then I’ll take the floor,” he suggested.

“I’m not letting you sleep on the cold hard ground in your own room...”

“And I can’t have my friend who’s staying over sleep on the ‘cold hard ground’ either. You’ll catch a cold both ways.”

“Friend,” huh.

You stared at him. He stared at you back.

“...”

“...”

“I mean...I wouldn’t mind if we just shared the bed... Unless it would be too uncomfortable for you?”

He chuckled for the second time that night. “Not at all. I’ll take your reply as a yes, then?”

You nodded meekly, and he guided you to his room by placing his hand on the small of your back, sending shivers up your spine. His door unlocked with a soft click and he let you in first.

You couldn’t see very well, but from what you could make out, it was a lot tidier than you had expected. The floor wasn’t littered with dirty laundry or empty instant ramen boxes everywhere, at least.

The overall layout of the room was the same in every dorm, so you made your way to where you remembered your bed being. And thank god you were correct, because you tripped on something and fell face-first.

“You okay?” Suguru called out as he made his way to you, his voice worried.

“Yeah.” Yours was muffled, your face still buried in his blankets that smelled too much like the laundry detergent your family used, too tired to get up. “I just tripped a little.”

“Sorry about that. I didn’t get much of a chance to clean it today,” he apologized. “Ah, you’re finally worn out, aren’t you?”

“Mmhm...”

He turned you around and you felt his arms go behind your back and under your legs, but you were too tired to care. He lifted you up and gently placed you on one side of the bed before slipping in next to you.

His chest was pressed against your back despite his best efforts to maintain some distance, allowing you to feel his heartbeat. It was fast but rhythmic, and gradually slowed after he pulled the blankets above the both of your shoulders.

All of that had alerted you from your sleepy state, and you thought you were back to not being able to get a few hours in because of the proximity, but you were wrong. No sooner had you uttered a soft “goodnight” back, you had fallen asleep, the last thing on your mind being you reminding yourself to go out late at night more often.

Not hearing the quiet “I love you” from the person behind you that followed.

[bratshaws]

through the hourglass 162. brb x oc

a/n: hello i still feel like...something and I'm not proud of this chapter. not really my favorite. *shrugs * (reblogs and comments are super encouraged <3)

pairing: plus size!oc x rooster

warnings: none, just fluff.

goodness gracious (pls read this one to know more what this fic is about!!)

chapter

1/

116/117/118/119/120/121/122/123/124/125/126/127/128/129/130/131/132/133/134/135/136/137/138/139/140/141/142/143/144/145/146/147

/148/149/150/151/152/153/154/155/156/157/158/159/160/161

(pls let me know if you want to be added to the taglist! )

taglist: @mirandastuckinthe80s @roosterschanelslut @wiipes @lcahwriter @novastories @gretagerwigsmuse @frenchtoastix

@lizzie-rdj @fanboyluvr @atarmychick007 @comebacktoearthpls

@peachiicherries @mak-32 @lizziespidiepridie @roosterswifey @ollyoxenfrees @piceous21 @sqrlgrl22 @hofficoffi @lexhalstead3 @lorilane33 @legendarydreamersharkparty @luckyladycreator2

@emilybradshaw @j-6o @louisahale @leobabbyyy @booklover2sblog @winter-run @ktjmac @graciereads @bigpoppajes @taytaylala12

@caitsymichelle13 @becks-things @caatheeriinee07 @fanboyswhore9 @jesfreedark @katiemcrae @lilmonstrjedi @hobiismyhopeu @teacupsandtopgun @insominac23 @gh0stsgoodgirl @mygyn @chavivaelisheva @genius2050

-

The sun cast a warm glow on the quiet suburban neighborhood, its golden rays painting the houses in shades of amber and illuminating the few flowers that lined the streets. It was a picturesque scene, a scene that Beatrice loved to see every time she woke up.

Their neighborhood was nice, it was calm and it had the obvious ‘american dream’ feeling to it. She found it strange to not hear music during the weekends or loud voices on the street, unlike the ones she heard while growing up.

As she sips her morning…cocoa, because she couldn’t have coffee, she takes a quick look on her phone to check the time, she’d visit her dad in a few minutes, she just had to wait for Rooster to go to work. She taps her nails on the porcelain cup, chewing her lower lip because she was worried, albeit she shouldn’t be. She knew what his job was about, she had these thoughts many,many times before, she mentally prepared many times before…so why was she scared?

Why was she nervous?

She hears his footsteps going down the stairs, turning her torso in time to see his broad frame appear on the threshold, one arm stretched as he adjusted his watch on his wrist, looking up only when he noticed Beatrice staring at him, “Gorgeous,” he whispers, “So this is where you’ve been.”

“Well,I was preparing breakfast.” she laughs softly, nodding to the fresh toasts, tapping her fingers on the porcelain cup, “And um…I couldn’t sleep that well, so…”

“Again?” she nods quietly, “Oh,baby…” he wastes no time in walking up to her and kissing her forehead, “It’s okay, do you think you can nap at the hospital?”

“I think so,I’ll ask um, Bri to take Nikki out for a bit so I can sleep.” she rubs her eyes, the movement preventing her from saying how she ‘wasn’t sleepy at all’ when in fact she was really sleepy, “I’m okay though,it could be much worse.” she shrugs weakly, giving him a small smile, “I…I just…you know, life is–”

He hates when she rambles because of her anxiety, because he knows her brain is confused and her heart is about to burst. He could see the slight tremble on her fingers from sleep deprivation, “How long were you up?”

“Hm?”

“How long?”

She parts her lips, looking at the side guiltily.”I don’t know, it was still dark when I woke up.”

Rooster's concern deepens as he observes Beatrice's fatigue and the toll it's taking on her, gently taking the mug from her hands to set it aside, his wife makes a confused noise but stops when  his hand reaches out to gently cup her face, his touch warm and comforting. "You need to take care of yourself, Bea," he says softly, his voice filled with genuine worry. "I know it's hard, but you can't keep pushing yourself like this. Your well-being is important."

Beatrice leans into Rooster's touch, closing her eyes. She takes a shaky breath, her voice filled with a mix of exhaustion and determination. "I know," she admits, her eyes welling up with tears. "But I feel guilty when I rest, especially with everything that's going on. I want to be there for Dad, for Nikki, for you."

Rooster's gaze softens, his thumb gently wiping away a tear that escapes her eye. "Bea…”

“I know.I know.I shouldn’t feel guilty,” she groans, “I know it’s my self doubt and my fear of disappointment being louder than normal and taking control of me, but…I-I can’t help it. I’m worried about my dad,I’m…trying to handle how I’ll be when you leave, and-and like I am pregnant and I can’t have these thoughts.”

Rooster's heart aches as Beatrice blurts out those words, they appear heavier than normal. He pulls her into a tight embrace, propping his chin on the top of her head. "You're allowed to have these thoughts, Bea," he says gently, “You know that very well.”

Beatrice clings to Rooster, seeking comfort in his strong arms. She sniffles softly, her voice muffled against his chest. "I know, but it's hard not to let the fear consume me sometimes," she admits, her voice trembling. "I know you said I don’t burden you but sometimes I still get these flashbacks and I can’t help it.”

Rooster pulls back slightly, his hands cupping Beatrice's face, his eyes locked with hers. "Ah,I forgive you.” he chuckles and she joins him seconds after, her cheeks reddening “ We're a team, remember? That's what being a couple is all about. Or did you just think I was just marrying you because you have an amazing ass?”

Beatrice’s eyes widen and she sputters a laugh, playfully shoving his shoulder, “Shut up!” 

Rooster grins, the familiar lightness returning to his expression as he enjoys Beatrice's laughter. He wraps his arms around her once again, pulling her close. "Mmmmmmmmake me.," he purrs to her ear, playfully biting the curve of her jawline, his voice filled with affection. "You can try, we both know how that will go.”

Beatrice's laughter subsides, and she looks up at Rooster, leaning back onto his chest, “Do we?”

“We do.” Rooster's smile softens, and he brushes his thumb gently across Beatrice's cheek. "We both know it can be…interesting." he says, his voice filled with tenderness, hearing her quiet ‘mhm’ "But hey, we’ll be alright, you know that.”

Beatrice nods, finding solace in Rooster's words and the warmth of his embrace. She takes a deep breath, allowing herself to relax in his arms. "Yeah, we'll be alright," she whispers, her voice filled with a mix of relief and gratitude, giggling when he smacks her cheek with a wet kiss before backing away to get his morning coffee. "So what’s going to happen today?" she asks with her arms crossed, “You uh, will talk to someone else about the deployment or…”

Rooster pours himself some coffee, blowing the steam before he takes a short sip, only answering her when he swallows, “Pretty much,I’ll also talk to new pilots,I need uh…a debrief, basically, since I’ll lead the whole thing.” he takes another sip of the warm beverage, allowing it to hit his stomach and heat him up from the inside, “And then we need to get ready to leave.”

“...right.” she quickly waves her hands when he looks back at her with worry in his eyes, “N-No, no it’s fine. I’m just,well I’ll just miss you…but I know you’ll be okay.” she smiles, waving her hands to break the tense atmosphere, “I swear I’ll be fine. I swear…do you think you’ll be able to call us?”

“I’d break the rules to do so.”

“Rooster.” she admonishes, but then smiles, “...you don’t have to break the rules to call us.”

“True,I don’t.” he laughs, “But even if I’m tired,I’d still call you.” he leans his lower back against the counter, holding himself upright with his hands so he could keep his eyes on her, “But I’d love to hear from you when I’m away…helps me sleep.”

“Mhm.”

“What about you?” he questions, tilting his head, “What are your plans today besides visiting your dad?”

“I think…those are the plans I’ll have.” she whispers, shrugging at him,”Then I’ll come back home and enjoy the night off…I appreciate Penny letting me stay home.She’s an amazing boss.” she smiles as she drinks more of her cocoa, “Maybe I’ll…take Nikki to the park,I don’t know.”

Rooster's eyes soften as he listens to Beatrice's plans for the day. He walks over to her, setting his coffee aside and taking her hand in his. "That sounds like a good plan," he says, his voice gentle. "Spending time with your dad and taking Nikki to the park will be wonderful. And don't forget to take care of yourself too, okay?"

Beatrice nods, intertwining her fingers with Rooster's. "I will," she assures him, her voice filled with determination. "I'll make sure to rest when I need to and take care of our little ones." She looks down at her belly, a loving smile on her face. "They're counting on me, after all."

Rooster's gaze shifts to Beatrice's belly, “So am I,gorgeous.” he says sweetly, then looks at his watch with a groan, “I gotta go.” his lips meet hers in a gentle kiss "I love you," he whispers, “Walk me to the door?"

Beatrice’s cheeks hurt from smiling, “Of course.” she does check on Nicole via the video app and she’s happy to see their little girl is still asleep, “I’ll give you a call,alright?” she tells him once they walk to the garage, her arms crossing over her bust to protect her front from the chilly winds, “Oohh it’s cold today.”

“A little.”

“You do know what cold is,Virginia Boy.”

Rooster laughs, he’s honestly so happy to see her joking and laughing, it was a nice break from the tense atmosphere from these past days. He watches as the garage door slowly rolls up and he drops his shades over his eyes, “I do.” he smirks, “But I also know how to warm my wife up if she so desires.”

“Stop.” she’s blushing,trying to hide her smile with her hand, “Go to work.”

“One more kiss and then I’ll go.” he smirks,pursing his lips, “I’m waitin’.”

Beatrice playfully rolls her eyes, but she can't deny the warmth that spreads through her at Rooster's words. She steps closer to him, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Alright, just one more," she teases, leaning in to press her lips against his, cupping his cheeks so their lips would meet.

Rooster deepens the kiss for a moment, savoring the connection before reluctantly pulling away, his lips curving into a satisfied smile. "Alright, now I really have to go," he says, sliding his lower lip into his mouth, almost savoring her taste one more time, “I love you.” He gives her a quick wink before turning to head towards the Bronco.

“I love you too.” Beatrice watches him go, a soft smile on her face. She wraps her arms around herself, shivering slightly in the cold, but her heart feels warm. She knows it won't be easy to say goodbye, but she takes comfort that she’ll still have a few hours with him before he leaves for real. 

As Rooster gets into his truck, he rolls down the window and leans over, his eyes fixed on Beatrice. "Take care of yourself, Bea," he says, “And sleep a little too,gorgeous.”

"I will," Beatrice replies,”Take care of yourself too, handsome. I’ll be waiting for you."

Rooster nods, his eyes lingering on Beatrice for a moment longer before he starts the engine. "I will," he promises,  giving her a two finger salute that turned into a wave, he drives away, leaving Beatrice standing in the chilly morning air, watching him go.

Beatrice takes a deep breath, her hand gently resting on her belly as she walks towards the sidewalk. She should’ve grabbed a jacket or one of her cardigans, because that wind made her regret walking out immediately. She turns back around in a hurry, meeting Jolene’s huge head peeking out of the door, “Inside Jojo! It’s too cold!”

The pitbull however waits for the brunette to close the garage and finally walk into the warm comfort of their home. Beatrice sighed, leaning her back against the door and slowly sliding to the floor, bringing her knees up to prop her arms on it, and then cup her face in her hands as she stares ahead.

She was okay.

Sort of.

As Beatrice sits on the floor, Jolene taps closer, flopping next to her with her head on her lap and those honey colored eyes giving her the biggest and cutest puppy dog eyes ever, “...thanks Jojo.” she smiles, her body begging to rest but she couldn’t. Hell she might call Michael to pick her up, she couldn’t drive. Her head feels so heavy. “...I’m scared,Jojo.” she whispers to the dog, scratching her behind the ears “...I…I am scared,” and the tears pool on the corners of her eyes, “I didn’t want him to go.”. 

Jolene whines, still looking up at her human only to see Beatrice wiping her eyes with her fingertips, “Augh,I hate-” she sniffles, wiping her face with her sleeping shirt, “The hormones. I’ve been crying so much these past days.” with good reason, a voice in her head replies, “God I just…I…I don’t know if it’s my dad’s hospitalization plus Rooster’s deployment, but something feels so off.” 

Jolene senses Beatrice's distress and presses herself closer, offering comfort in her own way. The pitbull's warm presence brings a small measure of solace to Beatrice as she continues to wrestle with her emotions. Tears stream down her face as she blows an angry raspberry out of frustration with…everything.

But after a while Beatrice takes a deep, shuddering breath, trying to steady herself. She knows she can't let her fears consume her completely. She reminds herself that it's normal to feel scared and overwhelmed in the face of such significant challenges, repeating it to herself over and over because she knows it’s true.Everything going on is undoubtedly taking a toll on her emotional well-being.

Resting her head against the door, Beatrice lets out a shaky sigh. "I just...I wish things were different," she whispers, her voice filled with longing. "I wish my dad didn't have to go through this, and I wish Rooster didn't have to leave." Her words hang in the air, her own voice coming back to her ears.

Jolene nudged Beatrice's hand with her snout, so it landed on top of her head and so Jolene could protect the growing bump with her massive frame. Beatrice takes comfort in the pittie’s presence, laughing tiredly, “I’m sorry Jojo…I’m a broken record sometimes.” she says, chewing the inside of her cheek as she looks back to the sink, where both of their mugs were. Hers was still steaming, “...you know,maybe I should take on a new hobby with Rooster gone,maybe it’ll help me.”

Jolene stays close to Beatrice, the little dot brows moving with interest at her owner’s suggestion. “I don’t know…anything.Really,anything...to make this whole thing stop.” she gestures to her head and then covers her eyes with her hands, “...nevermind,I need to call Mike so he can pick me up.” she gently moves Jolene’s head away, not before kissing the pittie’s snout in thanks, “So I can sleep in the hospital, for a little bit.”

Jolene reluctantly moves her head away,standing up only to stretch her whole body as Beatrice walks upstairs to make the call. She does stop by Nicole’s door when she sees Eleanor and Jack up, their tails wagging and noses pointed to the crib, where a sleepy looking Nicole sat, squinting her eyes at nothing.

Beatrice smiles softly as she watches Eleanor and Jack, eagerly gathered around Nicole's crib. She walks over to them, her exhaustion momentarily forgotten as she takes in the adorable scene. "Hey there, little sleepyhead," Beatrice coos, reaching down to gently scoop up Nicole in her arms. "Did you have a good nap?"

Nicole blinks up at Beatrice, her tiny hand reaching out to grab onto one of Beatrice's fingers only to change target and move towards her eyes, rubbing her face instead. Beatrice's heart swells with love as she gazes down at her daughter, fixing the little onesie collar around her neck. "You're growing so fast," she whispers, pressing a gentle kiss to Nicole's forehead.

  A sudden weird and dark thought shows up in her brain, making Beatrice still as if she was    being hunted by something, and that something was inside her brain. She clenches her eyes, shaking her head “No, not this. Not now– come on Nikki, let’s call uncle Mike and…go visit your nonno.” she had to ease her mind, especially after that.

And she hated how her heart felt cold when that happened.

[iggydabirdkid]

So this was supposed to be a short thing. And it turned into the seconds longest thing I've written 😅 Don't @ me with when this is set because I got no clue. Sometime after the end of Retribution at least, with Annie being more open despite the situation. Enjoy!

My Ao3

Title: Anniversary

Word Count: 6258

-----

You’ve been awake for longer than a human body is supposed to go without sleep. You’re not quite sure why. No that’s a lie. You don’t like to sleep, or more accurately, you dread the dreams that sleep brings. The nightmares that wrap you up so tight, dig their claws into your soul and slip in through the scars left in your marbled skin.  

You suppose you have slept, in a way. Your body has at least. Jumping into to other people’s minds is the only way to sooth the aches and pains of your own form but recently things have felt… off. You’re not sure why, but it’s such a gut feeling that even in bodies so different from your own your mind refuses to switch to match. Leaving your brain to run into overtime. Clocking hours that would normally be spent furthering your plans and instead leaving you feeling drained and jittery. Because your mind is the most important part of you. It is you. It’s all that you are.

You’re not even running on fumes. At this point you’re a tank that’s been empty for a concerning amount of time, struggling to keep on moving as it splutters and coughs.

You know it’s dangerous. Even for someone like you so used to restless nights. There must be something else that keeps sleep at bay. Something your addled mind can’t remember. A shadowed blur out the corner of your vision has your head snapping to the side. You stare wide-eyed and unblinking at the empty kitchen space where you swear… You struggle to your feet, abandoning the comfort of your couch in favour of checking your cabinets, draws, nothing out of place. Nothing amiss. You rub your hands over your face as you sigh and the temptation of sleep tugs at your weary limbs.

The high-pitched screeching of something cuts through your thoughts and you jump. Your heart stutters in your chest and it takes you far longer than you’d like to recognize the shrill ring of your mobile. Even longer to remember that it’s snug in your pocket. You fumble for the device, feeling like its buzzing may time out and you answer the call before checking to see who it is.

“Hello?” you mumble, voice quiet as you lean your hip against your kitchen counter.

“Hey Annie. Sorry, did I wake you?” Julia. Of course. You hope the huff you make sounds more like a laugh than it feels to your ears.

“I wasn’t sleeping,” you reply, “What’s up? Something the matter?” you ask.

“Does something have to be wrong for me to call you?” you can picture the grin on the other end, yet something in her tone sounds different than it would do if she were simply teasing you.

“No. But you normally call me for a reason.”

“Maybe it’s just to hear your voice?”

“Ha ha Julia.”

The silence that stretches afterwards turns awkward when neither of you speaks. You’re struggling enough as it is staying upright, forcing coherent sentences through your lips as your mind buzzes. You don’t know what her excuse is.

“Annie?”

“Hmm?”

“Are you okay?”

“Why do you ask?” You frown as your gaze wanders over the expensive furniture of your open plan living space.

“Because of what day it is?” her voice sounds strained, though that may just be your imagination.

“What day it is?” you parrot back, unable to form a better answer.

“You don’t… Do you not…” You sigh.

“Haven’t been super good at keeping track of things the last few… well… most of my life really,” you chuckle then. Self-deprecation is always your go to.

“Nooo, really?”

“Smartass.” Her turn to laugh now, the sound is brief and light and ends far too soon to be anything other than an expected reaction.

“Do you really not know the day, or are you just pretending?” she sounds skeptical and you don’t blame her.

“Jules, I can’t even remember what I had for breakfast this morning. Or if I even ate breakfast at all.” You didn’t. You can feel your stomach knawing away at your insides yet you can’t find it in yourself to care.

“It’s the anniversary of… of Heartbreak.”

Oh.

You feel your breath stopper in your throat and the space before you seems to stretch out into an eternity, becoming narrow and cramped as you feel sweat bead on your forehead and roll down your back. The air seems too warm and there’s a buzzing in your ears and an aching in your legs and you can’t focus-

“-nie? Annie? Are you still there?”

It takes you a while to reply and you feel like it took just as long for Julia’s words to reach you.

“Still here.” Your voice is hoarse and your vision swims.

“I’m sorry.”

“Don’t. Just…” you trail off as you struggle to find the right words, any words, “Did you really just call to remind me of a day I’d rather not think about?” You’d erase the entire nightmare from your mind if you could. Scour the ridges of your brain till they bled but where would that leave you then? Who would you be without your trauma binding the pieces of you together?

“I normally spend this day inside, alone. But I thought, maybe you wanted to come over?”

“Come over.” You repeat. You don’t want her to see you like you are now. You know you can’t look good. But what else could you say that wouldn’t make her even more worried than she must already be. If you were in better shape you could probably think of an excuse, a way to wriggle free of this impending encounter. But you’re not, so you can’t, so instead you let out a long sigh as you tilt your head back and stare at the ceiling, lights flickering above not quite there. You close your eyes, “Sure. Sure.” She must hear it in your voice. Your reluctance.

“You don’t have to.”

“I said I’m coming alright.” You will your words to sound harsh but you can’t muster the energy, “I’ll be there when I can.”

“Alright,” her voice is soft and your heart aches, “Be safe.”

You hang up, let your arms drop to your sides and stare into space with your brain thinking of nothing. This is a bad idea. You feel like you’re floating, tethered by a single thread as you stare down at yourself from above. Aware of your body while the world around you feels false and fickle. You can almost hear Doctor Finch’s voice in your mind, and then you do hear her and you snap back as your head shoots up just in time to see a shimmer of a form fading fast from your eye. Your hand clenches tight around your phone and you push off from the counter.

You really do need to sleep. But now you have plans. And cancelling them will only lead to Julia snooping. And that above all, is what you don’t need right now.

+++++

It takes all the willpower you have to keep your legs moving and your eyes open and the whispers at bay. It’s not safe for you to be out but if you can make it to Julia’s you’ll be safe. She can keep you safe. Her static will help if anything. And if not? Well then maybe just having another presence by your side will be enough.

Your hands are deep in your pockets, your fingers curled into fists gouging crescent shaped grooves into your palms as your feet move you forwards with no thought. You think you’re drawing blood but the sharp piercing pain helps ground you just enough for your vision to clear and you realize you’re outside Julia’s apartment. You have no idea how you managed to get here in one piece, let alone how long it took you. You stand on the sidewalk and you know there must be bleed over. You know you have to be projecting as no one gets close to you. Skirting around your bubble and crossing the street before drawing near and normally you would put that up to you just being you. With your dead-eyed stare and general leave me alone expression but when you turn your head to watch those around you, you find them staring back.

All of them. Staring. With eyes the same shade of green.

Dead eyes.

Her eyes.

“Annie?”

The voice startles you enough that you stumble, almost tripping over a crack in the pavement before you regain your footing. Julia stands before you with an open face plastered with concern. Its not an expression she wears much around you anymore. You had been doing better. Had being the key word.

“Are you okay?” she asks with a slight tilt of her head. She’s been growing her hair out and it spills around her shoulders, framing her face with waves of chestnut brown streaked with shoots of grey. A smile finds its way onto your face and through the haze that is your vision you see her frown deepen as she takes a step towards you. The late day sun illuminates her form and her warm brown eyes are flecked with the subtlest hints of gold…

“Annie?” she’s right in front of you now and one hand reaches for your face. You let her, too tired to protest and she cups your jaw and you lean into her touch, “Are you okay?” she repeats. Firmer this time but no less soft.

“Just tired,” you mumble as you close your eyes.

“You sure?” her free hand finds one of yours and you lace your fingers together.

“Mhm.” You open your eyes and your vision blurs again and she smiles at you sadly as she drops her hand.

“Come on.” She motions towards the door with a jut of her head and her static is already working wonders. Blanketing your mind in comforting white noise and when she goes to pull your hands apart your grip hers harder, too hard if her wince is anything to go by and you wonder what she sees when she looks back at you. Trying to keep it together and if you didn’t have her hand in a death grip it would be shaking. She opens her mouth to speak but then closes it without saying a word, grips your hand tighter, and leads you inside.

The doorman gives you a quick nod and you spy a flash of green in his otherwise hazel eyes. You squeeze your own shut and allow Julia to lead the way but when your foot hits the bottom of a step, your eyes fly open.

You always take the stairs so of course she would think nothing of taking them now. But she wasn’t with you, didn’t see what you saw with her mind protected as it is so she doesn’t know. You take a few steps back, pulling your hand free as you fight to keep your fraying composure.

“Annie?” She approaches slowly with her arms out showing her intent and you shake your head, clamping your mouth shut as you plant your feet firmly on the ground. She stops and backs off, lips pursed and brows drawn and your arms are ramrod straight at your side as you gaze at the stairwell. Its shape twists and melts in front of you, “How can I help?” She steps into your line of sight and you blink out of the trance you had been falling into. You move your head to look for the elevator that you know is here somewhere- ah. There.

“Can we take the elevator?”

“Yeah of course.”

You know she’s worried about you. You’re worried about you. Pressed up to her side as you are, you’re thankful that she stays quiet during the short ride to her floor.

/////

You step into her apartment and as she closes and locks the door behind you with a short beep you finally feel as if you can breathe. The second floor isn’t as far above the world as your apartment, but any distance between you and the minds of those consumed in the rat race of everyday life is a blessing. You breathe in deep through your nose, hold the breath for a few beats, and finally exhale long and hard through your mouth. The sound is audible in the quiet space and as you turn you realize that Julia is stood by the entrance, watching you with folded arms and a small smile.

“Hey,” she speaks as she pushes off from where she’d been leaning back against the door. You meet her halfway, linking your arms around her middle as you bury your face in the crook of her neck. You inhale her scent as she hugs you tightly, humming a tune you don’t recognize as she rocks you side to side. It’s nice. In this moment. Quiet and calming, comfortable. Safe. The whispers don’t seem so sinister here and the pull of sleep is dangerously strong. Your eyes flutter close and you feel yourself relax entirely. That is until strong hands grab your shoulders and squeeze, “Annie? Hey!”

The voice is loud and irritating and you feel yourself scowl almost out of reflex as you jerk upright and blink rapidly before finding the floor beneath your feet again. Her hands are gripping you vice-like, concern drawing her features tight and suddenly her touch feels caustic so you pull away abruptly, tearing free of her hands, “Don’t shout at me,” you snap, resisting the urge to sneer as you turn and take a seat on the couch.

“Annie what’s wrong?” she comes to stand in front of you and you lean back into the cushions as you look up at her, “Please, just tell me what’s wrong so I can help.”

“I told you,” you start, “I’m just tired.”

“Bullshit. This isn’t just regular fatigue, I should know.” She would know. Shit. You can’t even come up with a convincing argument. Your brain is just a mass of fog and constant noise.

“I haven’t been sleeping.”

“Well?”

“At all.”

“For how long Annie?”

You just grimace and attempt a shrug but your shoulders barely move, “I was busy. Keeping myself busy, I think. To avoid thinking about…” you trail off and your gaze slips from her face as you stare at your reflection in the dark of her tv screen. It’s probably just your rotten mind, but you swear your eyes are emitting a subtle glow. When your words don’t return to you Julia lowers herself to the couch.

“It’s alright,” she hushes, “You don’t have to continue.” You sigh and lean against her completely, resting your head upon the solidness of a broad shoulder as you close your eyes.

“I’m so tired Jules.” She strokes your hair and you feel her shift, leaning forwards before an arm wraps around your shoulders.

You hear a click as a sound fills the apartment and when you open your eyes you see the scenes of an old movie playing upon the tv.

“It’ll be some background noise,” Julia tells you before she starts to move again. Lifting one leg up and trying to squeeze it behind your back, you shuffle forwards as she stretches the limb across the length of the couch, “Here,” she says and you turn your head to fix her with a wry smile, “Not like that!” She laughs and wraps her arms around you, drawing you into her as she leans backwards into the couch. You rest your cheek against her sternum and turn onto your side as you listen to the steady thumping of her heart. You watch as she lifts her other leg onto the couch to keep you from rolling off and now you are confined within her limbs, kept safe by the presence of her body, “Sleep Annie,” she whispers as she trails her fingers feather-light down your back, “I’ll be right here.”

And that’s enough.

You don’t fight it when your eyes start to close and the tendrils of sleep ensnare your mind and drag you down into the dark.

+++++

In the depths of sleep you find yourself somewhere familiar. You used to come here often with them both. The diner, the dumpster of which Julia found you in the first time you ever set your eyes on her. The first place you ever sat down to eat as a group. The place you’re sitting in right now.

The scene seems far more solid than it ever has, due to your fatigue perhaps? You have a sense, a terrible feeling however that that isn’t it. That it’s because Julia just had to remind you of what today was. But you think your mind knew all along. Somewhere deep down, buried amongst the memories of your daily routine. You don’t have a calendar for a reason but it seems that the incident has been imprinted onto your soul and are you really surprised at that?

A bell chimes out signaling that someone else has entered the establishment and you frown as you turn in your seat, only to see the door swing shut with no one in sight. Still, you keep on staring until the world past the windows starts to morph into a view that has fear spiking through your chest. You spin back around and almost fall out of the booth in surprise as an all too familiarly freckled face stares back at you with a wide and toothy grin.

“Anathema?”

“Miss me?” she grins. You close your eyes and rub your hands over your face. You don’t need this. Not now. Not today. Not with other memories oh so close to the surface.

“You know I do,” you confess in a moment of weakness and when you look back at her the smile has fallen to be replaced by an expression of guilt.

“I’m sorry,” she says and you laugh.

“You’re sorry?” you reply, the absurdity of it all shaping your mouth into a grin, “I should be the one apologizing to you!” The brief moment of mania passes as you breathe out, “It’s my fault you’re dead after all.”

“Don’t say that Annie. Please don’t say that.” She sounds like she’s pleading and you can’t look at her, “It’s no one’s fault but that things’.” You watch her hands sizzle as she clenches them into fists and you lean away, an unease making its home in your stomach.

“I held you back because I was getting a migraine. A fucking migraine!” you spit out in anger and she tilts her head, smile going sad as her orange curls bounce around her cherub face.

“I’m sorry.”

“Stop apologizing!” you shout and your voice echoes through the diner, the world seeming to shake along with your unjust anger. She flinches, jerking her hands back across the table and onto her lap as her eyes flit away from you. You wince, your face pulling into a grimace as you reach for her across the wooden surface, “I just…” you trail off, “I don’t know what this is.”

“What do you mean?” she asks, still not facing you.

“This place, this situation, these strange meetings cooked up by a mind on the brink.”

“Maybe it’s your guilty conscience?” your frown as she meets your gaze head on, something dangerous sparking behind those green eyes.

“I… Maybe. Shit.” You bury your hands into your hair as you drop your head, “I wish I had done something more,” you mumble at the table, “I wish I had stopped you. I wish we had never gone inside that fucking building.” Your fingers are like a vice on the back of your skull, “You were my best friend.” Your voice cracks as your face warms, “And now the only time I see you is in my dreams when my brain and body are so fucked that I struggle to wake up at all.”

“I know. I know.” Her voice sounds garbled and you sniff, blinking back tears, “And I am sorry Annie. I’m sorry you had to see that.” Her words sound strained and as you hear the tell-tale sound of her acid eating away at the table you think you were wrong to assume it was emotion that had taken control of her voice, “I never wanted you to see that.”

DON’T LOOK

The voice screams in the back of your head but you are powerless in this mindscape, your hands dropping to the table with a muted thud, hardly heard over you struggling to breathe. Your head moves slowly, so slowly, to look up at your friend and a shock of fear so potent you feel your heart stop, floods through your veins.

Acid eating away at her hands. The smell of rot and iron heavy in the air.

Not again. Please.

She’s raising her hands towards her face and your brain is screaming at you to do something.

Do something.

DO SOMETHING!!!

You lunge forwards and take a hold of her wrists like you wish you had all those years ago.

“Themmy stop! Please!” You’re pleading, crying. You can feel tears roll down your cheeks and you watch as the image of your hands shimmers like a mirage from skin and scars, to gloves of turquoise and grey, “Please stop.”

“I can’t.” Moving still, even though you are tugging with all your strength, “You can’t help me.”

“Why?!” you croak. Keep pulling. Keep holding. Even though the scent of death envelops you like a blanket in winter.

“Because you didn’t save me then.” Her arms slip from your grasp like you weren’t even holding on. Because you weren’t. You hadn’t. She’s right, “I never wanted you to see me die.” You watch in horror, frozen on the spot just like you had been and the world around you begins to split at the seams, visions of a dark hallway peeking through the cracks.

You’re helpless. Useless. And all you can do is watch as she grasps her face with her hands.

You’ve had years of new memories, good and bad, to try block out the sound of acid chewing away at flesh.

You should never have bothered.

She doesn’t even scream as her eyes pop and her skin sloughs off her skull, the bone shiny and white and not at all like it had been. But all you can focus on is the rancid smell of burning meat and the fact that she is still seated and her mouth is still moving, still trying to talk despite her tongue now sitting on the table before you.

And you can hear her.

Even though your mind is screaming at you to wake up.

Her words sound like dry grass and ash beneath boots.

“I never wanted to die.”

/////

You wake with an abruptness you didn’t think possible.

A desperate cry of her name flies from your mouth as you clamber to your feet, reaching for a figure no longer present. Your heart thunders an unsteady rhythm in your chest and you’re sweating enough that you hair sticks to your forehead and you clothes lay plastered against your skin. Your feet are rooted to the ground and your vision flickers in time with you roiling stomach.

A voice speaks up behind you and you can’t make out the words but you can’t turn, won’t turn. Don’t look. There’s a shimmer to the air and a heat at your back and you heave in desperate breaths to inflate your struggling lungs but it’s no use.

The room shifts and slides, changing right in front and all around before solidifying as a scene that causes a wheeze of a whimper to leave you. The apartment shrinks into focus, the carpet a dirty brown beneath your feet but this can’t be real. You know this can’t be real. You know. You know. (Do you?) But you’re panicking. You know the signs. Trembling body, shaking hands, head full of noise and unable to focus.

You need to move but there’s a window in the way.

The glass cracks, spiderweb lines spreading from a focal point created by something you can’t see.

You can see your reflection however.

And it doesn’t belong to you.

Snaking cables and inky darkness and something moving, sliding its way through the black and if you look down you can see the crack in the pavement four floors below. The smell of rot and antiseptic is overpowering and there’s a hand on your back, just between your shoulders blades and you fall forwards into nothing-

.

.

.

Your hands are buried in the shag rug of Julia’s living room, fingers curled and gripping it like a lifeline as you empty your stomach of its contents all over the designer pattern. Not much comes up, you don’t think you’ve eaten for at least a day but still the bile burns your throat and lips and stains the throw a lovely shade of yellow. There’s a figure besides you and a hand in the middle of your back and you have to remind yourself of where you are to keep from flinching away at the contact. You manage. Barely.

You dry heave and retch until there’s nothing left for you to do but sit back on your haunches as you wipe the back of your hand across your mouth and stare at the puddle soaking into the fibers. The shape at your side vanishes only to return a few moments later, warm hands handing you a cool glass which you take gratefully between your shaking ones. You close your eyes briefly as you swallow back any remnants before you bring the glass to your lips to wash the rest away. You drain the water in one go, alternating between gasps of breath and swallowing down air as the glass is pried from your fingers. You close your eyes again and the world stops spinning long enough for you to feel Julia slip a hand into one of your own.

“S’rry about the rug,” you choke on the stretched laugh that forces itself up your throat. She doesn’t take the bait.

“You’re not well Annie.”

“Tell me something I don’t know…” you grumble, “It looks worse then it is.” When you look to the side she stares back with an eyebrow raised so high it almost disappears into her hairline, “Physically I’m fine. I just haven’t slept in 3 days and, well, that’s about the time when hallucinations tend to start.”

“Jesus Annie. Maybe you should move your appointment with Doctor Finch forwards?”

Your fingers twitch, “… Maybe,” you concede, “But I’m more after an immediate solution, unless you want me to paint your furniture some more?” you smirk and she huffs, a flicker of a smile brightening her features just a touch.

“I think I still have some sleeping pills lying around somewhere.”

Knowing her they’ll be strong ones. They should knock you out deep enough that not even the nightmares will be able to dig their greasy fingers into you. You nod and let her help you to your feet. The tv is off now, the remote discarded on the floor and you almost step on it as you flop down onto the couch. She leaves you again, footsteps soft as she heads into depths of her apartment and you hunch forwards with a groan, placing your elbows on your knees as you bury your face in your hands. How mortifying. You’re thankful that the smell of bile is almost imperceptible though you still swallow back your nausea as you hear the tap in the kitchen run briefly before Julia returns.

“Here.”

The couch dips besides you and you sit up, one hand reaching for the refilled glass while the other turns palm up, allowing her to deposit the pills into your waiting grasp. You swallow both at the same time, flushing them away with water before placing the half-empty glass back on the table in front of you.

“Thanks.”

“No problem.”

Silence falls but as you look to her face to find her features shifting and mouth twisting you know there’s something on her mind.

“I can’t help unless you say something. Can’t read your mind remember?” you chuckle.

“Do you want to talk about it?” You go rigid and snap your gaze away as you clench you hands in your lap. Julia laughs quietly, “What a stupid question. Of course you don’t.” You smirk and your hands unfurl as you straighten out the fabric of your pants, “Can I ask you a question at least?” she asks.

“Might not answer it, but sure.”

“Do you dream about her often?” The question is soft, hesitant. And yet you still tense up, the scent of death reasserting itself over anything else. You blow out a breath, push those thoughts, that smell (those sounds) from your mind as you try pull your shields a little tighter, “Annie?” a hand on your own and you can’t look at her.

“Yeah I do.”

“I’m sorry.” That makes you laugh.

“That’s what she always says.” The smile on your face is as fake as your sobriety and you lean back into the couch as you close your eyes. Julia nestles against your side, knees touching and your mind begins to drift along the waves of static noise afforded by her proximity. You can feel yourself relax, thoughts fleeing your mind and after a long while you speak again, “I watched her die Julia.” And you know that no amount of talking will ever help you get over it.

“And I watched you die,” her words are hollow but she squeezes your hand.

She knows what its like, the feelings, the grief of it all. But the difference is that for her you came back. Sure you came back wrong, broken and hurting but you’re still alive aren’t you? Her heartache will still be there, you know, for the person you used to be. For the person you’re trying so hard to return to. But you’ll never truly get to hear Themmy’s laugh again, to hear her make another joke or to plot another shenanigan. Your sorrow is a part of you as much as the orange that stains your skin and for that reason you know it will never leave.

You don’t realize you’re starting to drift off until a stray touch to your cheek has your eyes opening when you never knew you had closed them.

“Come on.” Julia’s voice is soothing as she takes your hand and helps you stand, helps you stumble down the hall and through the doorway to her bedroom. You would protest but you’re falling asleep on your feet and her bed is softer anyways. You sit on the edge of the covers as she bends to take your shoes off and you take the opportunity to run your hands through her hair.

“M’ glad you’re deciding to grow it out,” you slur, words heavy in your mouth as she slips one runner off and places it to the side, “Should let me braid it sometime.” Your other foot is free and you wiggle your toes as she chuckles.

“You’d really do that?” she speaks as you remove your hands from her mane, shuffle up further onto the bed and slip under the covers.

“Yeah. I always loved to braid your hair. It’s so soft and smooth.” You smile lazily up at her as you rest your head on a pillow that must be stuffed with clouds for how soft it is. She stands at the bed side and your happiness turns dour as you look into her eyes, framed by grey above and wrinkles in the corners. You distantly wonder if you’ll get old enough to look the same. You reach up and cup her face in your hands, smoothing your thumbs over her dimpled cheeks as she smiles down at your frown, “When did you get so old…” you mumble, a hitch to your voice and she squeezes her hands over yours.

“That’s just life unfortunately.” She smiles with that crooked tilt of her lips you love so much and you pull her down towards your face to trap her in a kiss. A ruse she seems happy to be tricked by if the sigh she lets out is any indication.

She pulls away when your hands fall slack against her face and she places your arm back upon the sheets. She looks worried as she turns to leave the room and through half-lidded eyes you watch her pause in the doorway, look back over her shoulder and flash you a thin smile.

“Te amo cariño. Duermas bien,” she whispers, dimming the lights to a soft glow before she steps out, leaving the door slightly ajar as she disappears from your sight. The call of sleep washes over you like waves lapping against the shore and you can barely keep your eyes open. Until you realize you don’t need to. And you allow yourself to be washed out to sea.

+++++

You awaken slowly, eyes opening to the smell of food wafting in through the cracked door and accompanied by the sound of singing coming from somewhere in the apartment. You yawn as you sit up, stretching your arms above your head before rubbing the last traces of sleep from your eyes as you pull back the covers. You swing your legs out of the bed and onto the carpeted ground and you bend to touch your toes before straightening back up with a sigh and a smile. You feel more rested than you have in a very long time and your shields no longer feel brittle and non-existent. You’ll have to grab the name of those pills.

You pad towards the door opening it slowly and turning the light off as you step out into a brightly lit hallway. The singing continues and you realize there’s no music playing to sing along to as you turn a corner to see Julia standing at the stove. You don’t want to break this moment and so you quietly take a seat and rest your arms upon the benchtop laid with condiments as you watch her cook. Layers of dark waves spill down her back and you remember what you said last night, sighing as you soak up the heaven-like ambience that you seem to have landed yourself in.

“Morning! Pancakes?”

You startle, rattling the stool as she turns around. You didn’t realize she had heard you.

“Uh yeah. Yes please,” you smile and she slides the flat disc onto a plate before placing it down in front of you, “How long did I sleep for?” you ask as you drown the breakfast in thick syrup before cutting a large chunk off and shoving it into your mouth.

“Almost 15 hours,” comes the reply as she turns her back to you and returns to cooking.

“Damn. Well, I needed it.”

“You certainly did,” she chuckles. You wipe the syrup from your chin and turn in your seat, leaning the stool backwards as you peer into the living room to see that the space beneath the coffee table is bare. You grimace.

“I’ll buy you a new rug.”

“Annie you don’t have to!” she laughs as she turns once more with her own cake plated up and comes to next to you.

“C’mon Jules. You’re telling me you wouldn’t love to have something I’ve bought you displayed in your apartment?” you raise a brow.

“You got me,” she snickers as she starts to devour her breakfast. You finish yours quickly, getting to your feet once done and heading to the bathroom, “Where are you going?” Julia asks with faint amusement in her voice.

“Just wait!” you throw the reply over your shoulder as you enter the tiled room, grab a hair tie from where it rests near the edge of the sink (no wonder she keeps losing them), and return to the kitchen. She’s still eating, still watching you as you sit back down and motion for her to turn around.

She does without question after taking the last bite of her food and you reach for her hair, running your fingers through it to rid of any tangles before taking the length between your fingers and separating it into three. You hear her hum in content, sitting as still as she seems to be able to as you fold and twist and ignore the streaks of grey you uncover with your work. It’s nostalgic, reminding you of happier times and you find that the smile comes to your face with ease. Sooner than you’d like you’re finished and you loop the band at the end of the braid to keep your job from unravelling.

“There. Done.” You scoot back and watch as she reaches behind her, running her fingers along the bumps with such care that your heart thuds against your ribcage.

“Thank you.”

“No problem.”

She turns around on her stool and grins at you with shining eyes, “How do I look?”

You’re treated to a vision of her from her younger days. The same eyes and same smile but with skin unblemished, free of scars and wrinkles and missing all the signs of age that (although you’d never admit it) you’ve grown to love.

Your words get caught in your throat.

“Beautiful,” you reply as you smile back, “You look beautiful.”

[rogermeddowsx]

office parties suck part 10

word count : 1.9k 

contains : tw slight mention of sa

author’s note : happy 3 years of office parties suck! i know it's been a year since the last part but it was a toughie. now it's a goodie though so i hope you enjoy this part and enjoy as ops gets cheerier...maybe ;)

part nine is here if you need to catch up x

“He what?” 

Ben lurches forward, grabbing your face in his hands, forcing you to look at him. He’s clever in doing this. His once light green eyes have turned deep and dark, the boring stare encouraging you to continue. 

“It happened a while ago, before I met you,” you say, feeling Ben’s thumb slowly caressing your cheek. “It wasn’t as bad as you think.” 

“I’m hoping not because my mind is going wild.” 

Ben is calmer than you thought he was going to be. Not only does he have a temper but since you’ve been together, he’s become insanely protective of you. In this moment however, he knows it’s important for him to stay calm, and let you talk. 

“He worked for my manager, when I was signed. I didn’t know him too well but he made me…” 

Your breath hitches. Then, you shake your head dismissively. 

“You know what? It doesn’t matter.” You shuffle down into the bedcovers, rearranging your head on the pillow to make yourself comfortable, then close your eyes. Ben hasn’t moved and you can feel his stare boring into your skin. After a minute, you pry open your eyes to find your assumptions correct. He’s still in the same position you left him in, eyes glossy from not blinking. Your hand reaches forward to take his. He meets your gaze. 

“It matters to me.” 

The words seem so easily said from his lips. You take his face in your hands and place a tender kiss against his lips. 

“I love you, Ben.” You whisper when you pull away. “Like, really love you.” 

“Then tell me.” He whispers back. “If not for you or me, but for Holly.” 

That sneaky little guilt-tripper. 

— 

‘You’re young. You’re somewhat pretty. You know what you’re doing. You’ve got this.’  You tell yourself as you walk into, well, the rest of your life. 

The building in front of you looms over, creating a shadow over what would have been a sunny day. You’d been flown into LA that morning, so jet lag was really starting to get to you. The company building was cylindrical and had a 12 foot spike on the roof that you were wishing you could impale yourself on. Despite the 4 cups of coffee you’d had in just the past hour starting to make your stomach cramp, you picked up your guitar in its case from beside you, and lugged it into Illuminate Records. 

— 

“Hi, I have a meeting with Noah Miller.” You say confidently, trying to hide that you were hoping the receptionist couldn’t see you wriggling around uncomfortably as your bladder screamed at you. Really shouldn’t have had those coffee’s. 

Victoria told you to act confident and like you belonged there even if you didn’t feel it. Which you really didn’t right now. So you wore deep black sunglasses and your favourite ‘model off duty-esk’ outfit. Was it totally lame to wear a Led Zeppelin tee while having a meeting with your new record label?  The sudden wave of anxiety over your outfit was overlooked as the man you assumed to be Noah Miller walked into the foyer. 

He was tall. Very tall. Dark-skinned, muscular. His tight fitted t-shirt hugged all the right places, and his dark, tailored slacks sat tightly around his waist. He was young, around mid twenties and unbelievably handsome. 

“Hi, are you my 1 o’clock?” He said, in a casual American accent. 

“I assume so?” You respond, blushing. You were not going to get any work done around this man. You knew that already. 

“Come this way, 1 o’clock.” 

— 

6 months later. 

You’re almost 20. This should’ve been your big break. Instead you’re sitting in Noah Miller’s hotel room, on the edge of his bed with your makeup streaking down your face. 

“1 o’clock, it was a mistake. A silly one at that but we can come back from this. We worked too hard to go home now.” 

Noah stands over you, placing his large hands on your shoulder. His thumb caresses your skin. If he was anyone else at any other time, you’d forget about the tears rolling down your cheeks and you’d kiss him. But the looming memory of 2o minutes ago hangs over you and out of pure embarrassment, you decide kissing him probably would not be the best idea. 

“Look,” Noah says, grabbing your chin up towards him, so you’re forced to look upwards, “every performer gets stage fright. You’ve just got to push through it.” 

Tonight was your debut performance on a late night talk show, to promote the album you’d spent the last 6 months writing. You weren’t famous, barely anyone knew who you were but there was a slight buzz surrounding the newest signing to Noah Miller’s record label. Right about now, you were meant to be on stage, performing your debut single but you chickened out. You ran straight back to Noah’s hotel room and sat outside the door, in tears, until he followed you from the TV studio. 

“I can’t do this, Noah.” 

He crouches down so that he’s level with you on the edge of the bed, balancing himself with his hands either side of you. The veins in his arm twitch every time he shuffles his feet to reposition himself. You notice this, because you cannot bring yourself to look at him, the closeness between you two causing your breath to fasten. 

“Hey, you absolutely can do this.” 

In the past 6 months, yourself and Noah had grown to be more like friends than boss and employee, with countless nights spent in his penthouse, playing him the songs you had written in the studio that day. Your favourite day in LA so far had been rushing to his penthouse immediately from the studio, bounding through the door to find him in pajama bottoms only, a takeout box of Chinese in his hand, and Led Zeppelin blasting through the speakers. 

-

“Noah! You have to listen to this song we wrote today. Best one yet, if I do say so myself.” You say, in a jokingly cocky voice, connecting your phone to his bluetooth speaker, without asking. 

“Hey 1 o’clock,” he laughs, holding out his takeout box, “want some?” 

“Absolutely.” You take a mouthful and press play on the future hit you’d just written. You hoist yourself up onto his counter, still chewing. 

Noah only shakes his head, like your being in his kitchen is a completely normal ordeal. As your voice silkily plays, you look out onto his penthouse. You’d been here countless times, but never this casually. 2 walls out of four were glass panes, floor to ceiling, overlooking the city. Noah only ever had dim lights on at night, so the majority of the room was filled with the light of the rooms in the skyscraper across the street. He lived a minimalist lifestyle, meaning there was little to no character in the big open plan space. There was something about being there and bringing some laughter to a room that had probably never heard any that lit up your heart. Noah’s too. As the song built, the box of Chinese had made its way into your hands, Noah stood opposite you, hands resting on  the counter he leant against. His eyes had fluttered shut and  his head bopped to the beat as he absorbed the sweet sound of your voice in the demo. It got to the bridge before you started singing along, breaking free from the constraints you’d given yourself before to let him fully listen. You jumped down from the counter, leaving the food next to you, and lurched forward to grab Noah’s hands. He opened his eyes when your fingers connected, as you dragged him into the middle of the room, your faces illuminated by the lights of the city and you started dancing. Jumping around as you sang, and Noah, formally stiff, business Noah, letting go and enjoying you as you flung both yours and his arms around. When the song lulled to an end, he grabbed your face and kissed you, hungrily. Taken aback as you were, you gave into the kiss, allowing it to go on for only a few minutes. You pulled away sheepishly. 

“The song is amazing, 1 o’clock.” Noah said nothing else as he walked back to the counter, where he finished the rest of the food. 

-

The two of you had never spoken again about that night, not out of awkwardness, but just because there wasn’t a need to. It was the start of the change in your boss-employee to friends relationship though. 

The memory allowed you to look down into his eyes, brown, and boring into yours. He leant forward into your space, and closed the distance between you. 

It didn’t feel right, though. 

You could feel the wetness of your cheeks, as his skin moved against yours. 

“Noah, we shouldn’t.” You managed to whisper against his lips. 

He only pushed your back against the bed, forcing you to lie down. He suddenly seemed so overpowering as he hovered over you on the bed. The muscles you’d once found sexy, you were afraid of. 

“Noah, really.” You pushed against his shoulders gently, hoping he’d get the hint. 

“Darling, you’ve just cost me. You’ve no idea of the press we’ll have to do now. Don’t you want to make it up to me?” 

His eyes darken as you shake your head ‘no’ and try to wriggle your way out of his grip on your wrists. He pins them above your head. 

“1 o’clock…” 

“Noah, please. I don’t want to.” 

He kisses you again, despite your pleas. 

“Noah. I said no.” You say, as his lips get to your neck. You muster as much strength it takes to push him off you and you leave him, his hotel and LA. 

Later that week, you were back with Miles and it was like nothing had happened. Except for the fading bruises on your hip from where you were held down. But that was a minor detail.  

---

You tell Ben every detail. Leaving out the first kiss you and Noah had shared. That memory hadn’t been tainted for you yet. You wanted to remember Noah like that. 

“So this is why you were kicked off the label?” Is Ben’s response to that story. 

“Kicked off, left, quit. All the same thing.” You wave it off, actually making yourself comfortable enough for sleeping, but Ben isn’t finished. 

“It’s not the same thing. If he fired you because you wouldn’t sleep with him then we can fight that. You could go back to doing what you love.” 

“I don’t love it though. I loved making music sure but the actual performing part? No, thanks.” 

“So you could be a writer. You could write for other people.” 

“Noah would make sure I’d never get a job anywhere.” 

Ben says nothing, and hugs you instead. While nestled in the crook of your neck he says, 

“I need to go home.” When he feels you tense he continues, “I love you. But my sister, she’s with that guy, right now. I’m sorry, Darling, do you mind if I go home?” 

You shake your head, and watch as he starts to pack up the things he’d only just put away. 

“I’ll call you when I’m home.” He says, halfway out the door.  “I love you.” 

He’s gone. And you’re alone. 

authors note : and there you have it. part 10!! i don't know if it makes a difference to anyone but i imagine noah as rome flynn not sure why haha and i was listening to treacherous by queen taylor so thats the song i imagined reader to have written. okay love u all <3

[phobylee]

Decided I'd start actually making fics for this AU, so here's the first one! Spun up the idea for this AU roughly eight or nine months ago now with the idea that Caleb's a ghost who stuck around for a long, long time with the purpose of haunting Philip for his bullshit. That's about the gist of it.

Now, you will be warned. This fic has some mild gore, body horror and of course topics around death and the feelings behind it. If you don't like angst, this isn't your AU. I've been working on it for a long, long while but I've been too afraid to go into detail about it aside from sharing some art for it here and there.. but that stops now! Going to get into what Philip's doing as well later.

Enjoy below the cut!

Familiar Spirits

Blessed Be

___

Caleb suddenly found that he could no longer breathe. Maybe it was the sudden surge of stress that filled his body, or the aching cold that made him want to tear open his own flesh to expose his nerves to the warmth.

The man gaped and sputtered, unable to even gasp through the pain. With each slight movement, a new agony stabbed his chest. He could do nothing more than stare up, watching blankly at the fading world as scarlet flames licked his hair.

For a long while, Caleb couldn't remember why he was even there. It was like putting together a jigsaw puzzle in his mind, where his thoughts slowly came to the surface before disappearing again from his fingertips. He could feel some things, though. He felt warm, sticky blood clouding his left eye, his neck, his mouth, chest and arms. He felt the fear and panic from god knows what ebbing away. And last of all, what he hated the most: he could feel the pit of confused emptiness left behind in fear's place.

One more attempt at a breath and he'd given up. His brain felt fuzzy and tingly. Bright, vivid flashes flew past his darkening vision. He could see faces in those peculiar images; they were familiar faces, ones he assumed were very important to him. Oh, how he wished he could reach out to touch them. Before his very eyes, Caleb saw the film of his entire short life play out. Growing up, grieving, growing, fitting in, losing faith, losing hope, gaining that hope again, pushing forward and… inevitably..

Dying.

That's what is happening now. He's dying, isn't he?

When the memories concluded and the world went permanently black, Caleb struggled to call for help. By then he was already in a deep void. It was cold and lonely and awful. Echoing along the endless walls, he could hear a faint voice. It was almost too faint to hear. It was beckoning him, begging him, comforting him– it made promises and told him he would be okay. And then they just stopped. He couldn't hear it anymore. Just silence.

Caleb managed to sit up on his knees, staring in horror at the endless blackness all around him. Maybe if he tried to find a way out, he could respond to that voice. He could see their face. He could assure them that he was fine, that he wasn't dead yet– that he–

"I'm afraid it's too late for that, my child," whispered a new voice. Caleb stiffened in fear and whipped around, searching for it on his hands and knees. What he couldn't see, he tried to feel.

"H-hello?" Caleb asked shakily. "Who's there? Who are you? Where am I?!"

"Your subconscious, dear," the voice came again. It echoed and moved in a way that was almost ethereal– a heavenly voice– but Caleb was not at all comforted by that fact. It solidified that- yes, he was indeed dead. "The last part of your mind to die," they went on.

"How long will I be trapped here?" Caleb barely managed to mutter, biting back a whimper.

"Not too much longer, I'm afraid. Once your brain finishes shutting down, it's off with me to the final destination."

Final.. destination? Caleb squinted, trying desperately to see the owner of the voice. It was hard to, but he could just barely make out a mass of wings, a slender beak, and glistening eyes all over its body.

If he could sweat right now, he would be.

"Oh dear, don't be afraid," the angelic creature reassured, drifting over to meet the top of his head with one of their wings. "It isn't a hard journey."

"But I'm not ready," Caleb quickly said, shaking in anger and fear. "I'm not READY to die! My wife! My kid!" It was coming to him now. "I can't just leave them here! I can't make her raise them all on her own! And my brother, he– what if he.."

"Hurts someone else?" The figure tilted their head, gently stroking his hair in an attempt to put him at ease. "So you feel there is.. unresolved business with your family, yes?"

Caleb nodded meekly.

"Mm, I see," They huffed, removing their wing. Slowly stepping back, they urged him to sit. Caleb did as told, though warily.

"I can allow this.. but there are.. conditions. If you're certain you'd like to stay, I need to ensure you will not pass on after this. And to do so.."

"Yes, please!" Caleb shouted before she finished, covering his mouth. "I'm.. I'm sorry."

"You needn't apologize, dear," the figure hummed, putting a clawed finger to her beak. The sound she made was hard to hear– but something seemed to respond. Something moved, the darkness shuddered and shuffled, and before Caleb could so much as speak, something lunged at him. A beast of feathers and claws, horrifying and wrong, bowed its head and sniffed at his face. It surrounded him and enveloped him, greeting him with a snarl.

"This.. will be your other half," the "angel" spoke, ruffling the creature's mane. "To keep you tied to this Realm, since you are not of this world, this Beast– not alive nor entirely dead– will act as your anchor. You cannot leave the Living World until you are both at peace. Together. Is that understood?"

"I… I.." Caleb stared into the beast's white, bitter eyes. They were narrowed and distrustful, examining Caleb closely.

"I don't know if I can–"

"Good," the angel said, clapping her feathered hands. "I'll send you both back then."

"Wait, what-??" Caleb started, scrambling forward to object. "You can't just–"

"Goodbye, Mr. Wittebane." Her head tilted once more, and before he knew it he was back in the fire.

[dbphantom]

for the fic thing, numbers 4, 20, 33

Ah thank you!!

The fic writer questions post

I'm sorry in advance, this got really long, so I had to switch to desktop halfway through to format it so it wasn't just a big block of text 😅 Like... I'm sorry. Genuinely, I am really sorry.

4. What detail in [insert fic] are you really proud of?

I'm going to do Alkali [ffxv H2O AU] because it's the one I'm currently knee-deep in. I hope that's alright! Truth be told I'm proud of a ton of tiny details in that fic, but my favorite is the change in what fire represents as the fic goes on to parallel Ignis's feelings about himself and the others. It's one of my favorite little descriptions to 'hide' throughout while I'm writing because there's just so much you can do with it.

Fire is dangerous, but it can also represent safety and home. Also it looks beautiful and provides comfort, but if you get too close it will burn you. Something something masquerading as light and leaving only blackened ash something something. Lux Et Umbrae or whatever. Generic stuff. You know. It's enrichment for me though, so I have fun with it.

I think the point where his view on it begins to pivot for the better is after the diner scene with the TV when him and Noct have a chat at camp that night, because Noct is the light of my fucking life surprisingly good at saying awkwardly nice things. Like, okay, he's actually awful at it, but the sentiment is there. Also fire is actually really important in the backstory fic [hang on, I'm getting ahead of myself-] and there's a similar evolution in its meaning for Celor [Ignis's uncle] as well, though his development with it is a bit more straightforward and... Obvious? I guess XD

If you want something a bit more silly, I've hidden exactly 7 H2O: Just Add Water and 2 Aquamarine references in the parts I've written out so far. And 3 Ariel references in Ardyn's dialogue. Oh, you poor unfortunate soul...

20. If you wrote a prequel to [insert fic], what would it involve?

CELOR. cough. I technically have one fully planned [chapters and all], the catch is I actually have to finish the current fic first and oh boy. This backstory fic is technically split into 2 parts. Celor B.B [before baby] and Celor A.B [after baby]. <- I wish I were kidding, but that's how it's split in my brain. It's a lot of years!

Before is the whole 'King Regis and his sluts the gang go on that funky little road trip during the war' thing, which basically establishes Celor as a character, the Scientias in relation to the royal family, and his relationships with the other OGs [Old Guys]. Basically, it goes into detail of what happened in Altissia that caused Weskham to get injured and how the other guys found out about Celor.

It also details the events of that one throwaway dlc? Like some dude showed up in Insomnia? Idk, it was so weird. U might not remember it [joking. Episode Ardyn, M.E 734]. Celor wasn't there for the main event, so he doesn't! He was off working with Drautos to evacuate civilians and stuff. Which kinda starts off their whole one-sided rivalry because Drautos sees some stuff and is like '🤔' about it. Celor is... well, to put it nicely, an oblivious idiot and doesn't even realize, so Titus is snooping around and everyone in the Citadel is like 'dude stop' except for the guy he's actually investigating. I also believe that Drautos has pretty much always been working with the empire. It's not specified when, but you don't become high commander of an army overnight [stares down Ravus]... Just kinda weird that he had time to pull that while also captaining the Kingsglaive, so I think he's always been allied with the Imperials. I digress.

After this attack is over the kids are all born (or cloned, lol) [basically... give it like 2 years and everyone exists] and we enter the A.B era where Celor proves just how bad of a parental figure he can be. For the record, I don't normally like killing off parents in fics too often but, well, Ignis doesn't have any mentioned in canon, so it feels weird to just have them suddenly exist in present-day... Celor is already toeing the line of being a full-fledged OC because there are TWO LINES in the audio story Parting Ways where Ignis's uncle speaks and then I did ALL OF THIS with him. 😮‍💨

Anyway, Ignis's parents' names are Julia Scientia and Harry [who married into House Scientia and took the name]. I named Julia for one of the OG mermaids in H2O, who likely had Rikki's power, and Harry for Rita's fiance in Mako Mermaids who ISN'T a total jerkface, thank you, Karl, you fuckboy- his sole existence made me distrust Karl MM so hard my first time through lol. Anyway, given their names you can probably guess their stories, but also they both die at the end. As parents do when you're discussing protagonist backstories [stares in Aulea].

Julia is the identical twin of Celor [yes, I'm implying he's transgender, do you think their parents named her Julia and him CELOR? Hell no, that's a transmasc name if I've ever picked one-] and Ignis takes after her, and therefore looks a lot like Celor (a lot of people confuse him as being Celor's son). That's why, in chapter 1 of Alkali, Ignis is standing there musing if the mermaid-looking daemon Noct killed in the arcade game would've looked like him. It's not explained why he thinks that in the text, but there you go. Reasons! Oh, also, Julia and Harry are killed by a mob for suspicion of housing a daemon after Julia is discovered, leaving their house burning to the ground and Celor returning with a 2 year old to... that... [seriously, the civilians in this universe are kind of hardcore and not in a good way...].

Celor takes Ignis back to the Citadel after a lot of [kinda superficial because pretty much everyone knows what happened] questioning and Regis (who is also actively mourning his fucking wife and raising a newborn) is like "whatcha got there, bud" and Celor's like "trauma" and Regis just nods and lets it happen. Not... not actually, but that's basically how it goes. Dude gets it. By god bahamut does he get it. Clarus is working overtime so hard to help them both learn how to be a dad. Anyway, you can imagine Celor's surprise when Ignis comes into his magic and it turns out to be temperature control. AKA this kid can now light stuff on fire whenever he wants. Even more bad when it's emotionally-tied. Celor and Cor, uh, put a lid on that ticking time bomb real quick. Just, fully shoved it in the shoe box and wrapped it in 7 layers of duct tape and buried it in the woods. It's not still ticking. IT'S NOT. [It is. :(]

To make things... a little more clear, Celor isn't a bad parent, he's doing his best, but also he's absent-minded and kinda paranoid about keeping the secret after what happened to his sister. Which, you know, a very valid reaction, but also causes him and Ignis to argue a lot over it, especially regarding Noct, especially after the whole Marilith thing. Celor actually argued against Ignis becoming Noct's advisor at all, but Clarus eventually pushed him into it because the kid's gotta live his life at some point, you know? [You might notice some parallels between Clarus and Gladio throughout, because they tend to be the voice of reason :V (most of the time lol)]. But yeah, after the whole Marilith thing, while Noct and Regis are in Tenebrae, Ignis and Celor get into a huge fight about who gets to know about the secret, Celor takes Ignis to the Lux Et Umbrae museum exhibit to make things up to his nerd of a nephew, and I get to loredump about Solheim and how merpeople came to be under Leviathan :) Of course the museum is a little... off... on the details given they view merpeople as a legend about variants of darkness daemons, but still. Shapeshifters show up on full moon nights to steal the bodies of your loved ones and make you one of them, blah, blah. Celor explains it better from what he knows, and Ignis learns about their connection to Leviathan.

Which, oops! Because this kid is pretty determined and he near immediately formulates a plan to summon Leviathan and bargain with her to become 'normal'. Hence the necklace. Which, yeah! Iggy's skull necklace is an important part of Alkali. I don't really bring up too often until they reach Altissia. See, the bargain ended up working... for about a month, until Leviathan intentionally meddled with the set rules to get what she wants (as you do when you're a jealous, vengeful god that also wants your other god friend to, you know, NOT nuke the entire planet). Because Ignis even bargained with her in the first place, and due to the rules she set, he basically gives up his half of the bargain to 'save' Noct's life (it was not actually in danger... parallels!) and still has to pay Leviathan back for her half. The necklace is his reminder of that. A literal chain around his neck. Anyway during this whole thing, oops, Drautos sees some stuff and is like '??????' and passes this info on over to Ardyn who is like '👀👀 interesting...' because, you know, he's an immortal bitch with memories from tons of people and also literally Ifrit. Who was there when Leviathan made merpeople because she was jealous. Jealous and vengeful. Not a good combo... But, yeah, Ardyn easily puts two-and-two together. So, when the Titan roadtrip caravan scene happens in Alkali, it should make a bit more sense. It didn't really NEED explaining, because it's Ardyn, but hey. I did. Bite me.

[And, YES, technically Leviathan was sleeping at this time, but it's more of a dream-state of her being summoned than actually her. I... didn't exactly want 7-8 year old Ignis summoning a literal, very miffed god in the middle of Insomnia's bay. If you know the first ever scene of the water dragon appearing in Mako Mermaids, it's something like that. Water and moonlight and rancid vibes. That's actually another plot point in Alkali, because when they're in Altissia Leviathan wants to wake up on her own terms, so she's trying to get Ignis to the Altar of the Tide Mother to wake her up permanently with his blood. Hey... it comes full circle... ... I should write an offshoot of this where it actually works and angst happens. Hmmm...]

Anyway, things happen after that pretty much as written in Alkali already, though this backstory fic would also cover the fall of Insomnia from Celor's perspective and his death :( It's funny because throughout this, Celor goes from loathing fire, seeing it as the brutal destructive force, to seeing it as hope and joy as seen through the eyes of kid Ignis learning his magic [contrast that to how Ignis views his own magic after training lol], and then after Ignis leaves Insomnia, fire goes back to being this awful uncaring force of nature that ends up getting Celor killed. Well, okay, it was mostly Drautos. But fire played a big part in it. And that's Celor's story. Pathetic merman uncle.

33. If you write chaptered fics, what’s your ideal chapter length to write? Is it different from your ideal chapter length to read?

Um, well. If the above showed you anything, I tend to write a lot... Sorry about that. I would say 20ish chapters is normally what I plan, but then everything goes off the rails. I intended for Alkali to be about 15 chapters, then it hit 20, then 30, now we're at 67 in planning and counting. Now if only I could actually write it all XD

And no, I love all kinds of fic!! One-shots, multi-chapters... So long as the premise is good, I'm here for it. I won't guarantee I remember to finish all the fics I start reading, but the chapter length has never held me back on starting them before. I just have a bad memory and never check my bookmarks :( Which I should do more often!!! Maybe I will do so tonight...

Anyway, thank you so much for letting me ramble about this! I really appreciate it, I'm always itching to talk about the stuff that lurks in my brain. 💙💙 I owe you one.

[biscuits-of-bagend]

DnDoc, The God of Rock 'n' Roll #7 - A Part of Me

Part 1 Part 6

Previous stories: DnDoc, Coming Home DnDoc, Space Band DnDoc, A Man's a Man

God of Rock & Roll by McFly Title is a reference to It's Not Dead by Twin Atlantic

---

"To the Gorr," they all said, tapping their sealed cups of tea together.

   The Doctor had found some blankets and cushions, so they were all now huddled together back in the living area, trying to unwind from the day's events through the power of a pillow fort. Rogue had slipped his hand under the Doctor's shirt so the Doctor could feel the warm touch of his skin. He rubbed his hand back and forth, providing a nice, steadying rhythm in the aftermath of the crashing chaos.

   After they'd all sat sipping their tea for a while, Jordan let out an almighty sigh and said, "I just feel so lonely. I know what we did was right, I can see that. But the past six years have just been so grey. And now I've got The Gorr to grieve as well as Tanya… It's just going to be a rough time, I think. And I'm not looking forward to it."

   "I've been thinking about this," Ruby said. "Before I met the Doctor - before I knew about TARDISes and sonic clouds and gods - music was already really important to me. I played keyboard in a band with my friends, and my mum had loads of different music on in the house when I was growing up. Sometimes, when I was really missing my biological mum, even though at the time I'd never met her, I'd listen to this playlist I'd made of songs I thought we might like to listen to together. It helped a lot - it was comforting, you know? But it was just music, just normal music made by humans here on Earth." Ruby looked to the Doctor. "I know we caused a bit of magic with the whole Sutekh thing but this was before all that, right?"

   "I think so," said the Doctor. "It never snowed when you thought about her until that first time on the space station with all the Space Babies, right?"

   "Yeah."

   "Then yeah, I think everything before that was just normal human stuff. Magical in its own right, but not godly," said the Doctor.

   "Human music's wonderful though," agreed Rogue. "Life affirming, soul enriching, whatever you want to call it. But I mean, you know this. It's just that now you'll be using it to feed the fire inside yourself rather than offering it to a god."

   "A god who healed my soul in return," Jordan reminded him. "They didn’t just take and take like Maestro."

   "True," said Rogue. "And hey, they're still out there somewhere, y'know, like a normal god. And everything they stand for is down here, in you and, by the sounds of it, in a whole lot of other humans."

   The Doctor leaned in against Rogue, proud of him for doing so well at chit-chat.

   Rock and roll is good for the soul, rock and roll is good for the soul…

   "Woah, where'd that come from?" Jordan stared at the blanket walls of the pillow-fort, then glanced at the Doctor.

   The Doctor lifted the sonic screwdriver to his ear. "I think the spirit of The Gorr is in sonic clouds as well as humans." He passed the screwdriver to Jordan so he could hear it.

   "What is a sonic cloud?" Jordan asked. "There was a lot to take in when you and The Gorr were talking about it."

   The Doctor did his best to explain the concept and its seeming interest in linking the Doctor and Rogue - or at the very least their ships - together. As he was talking, the screwdriver started to jerk about in Jordan's hand. The Doctor leaned across and opened the flap that would let the cloud out into the air. Immediately the sound started to concentrate itself around Jordan.

   "Woah, that's weird," he said. "It's like I can only hear it out my left ear."

   "I think it's on your left shoulder," the Doctor said. "It seems to really like you."

   The Doctor glanced at Ruby, then twisted his head round to look at Rogue. It still wasn't easy for him to tell what Rogue was thinking just by reading his face, but surely he was thinking roughly the same as the Doctor anyway.

   "I have a feeling the cloud would like to hear any more songs you have to sing to it," said the Doctor.

   The sonic spiked in volume, as if in agreement. Rogue's hand stopped moving on the Doctor's back for a moment, but then he resumed. He kissed the back of the Doctor's neck - a tiny, airy peck, but so much clearer to the Doctor than his facial expressions. The Doctor felt confident taking this as approval. After all, Rogue was the one who'd said the sonic had a mind of its own.

   "If it would like to stay with you," said the Doctor. "We won't stop it."

   "Woah!" Jordan's eyes widened and he started whipping his head from side to side as the sonic circled around him. "Where is it coming from? I can't keep up!"

   The Doctor smiled. "I think that's its version of a hug. It's not a god though, okay? You sing to it, it'll sing to you. It's like a clever record player. But maybe it can keep you company while you get used to life again."

   Jordan nodded, attention mostly taken up by the cloud zipping around all over the place.

   "There's just one condition," said the Doctor. "You've got to be able to give it up, okay?"

   Jordan looked up at him.

   "When the time comes, I mean. Someday, when you're feeling better, if you meet someone who could really use the help of the sonic cloud, you have to be able to let it go live with them instead," said the Doctor. "And then they have to be able to pass it to the next person, and so on, and so on."

   Jordan pursed his lips and nodded, patting his stomach. "The fire's got to be in the belly, not the cloud or the god, I know. I'll be okay."

---

Part 8

Last sentence is also an oblique reference to I'll Be Okay by McFly but I didn't want to share that at the top because that would be spoilers for Jordan's emotional state I guess?

@off-traveling-in-the-stars @casavanse @monster-donut @randomwholocker (let me know at any point if you no longer wish to be tagged in each post)