Text
3.187 Passing the keys
That night, I went back to the rental website to fill the vacancy because it didn't make sense to wait. The house had been sitting all this time, waiting to generate income for us, and it was past time I did something about it. I decided to rent to the older gentlemen, but his application was no longer available. I was kind of bummed because I had already formed a picture in my mind of what he would be like based on the information he shared on the application, and now I'd have to start over. The plus side is that I found a young family like I originally wanted, so I accepted their application right away. In the morning, I got a notification saying they had moved in already, so I went over there after breakfast to introduce myself and get to know them. The application stated they were a married couple with twin infants. The house wasn't exactly setup for two babies, but they can make it work.
As I approached the door, I overheard them arguing, and my whole body tensed up. They reminded me of Mama's friends, who stayed with us and argued literally day and night. I hope to the Watcher these two are not like that. I pressed my ear to the door to see if I could get an idea of what the issue was. It turns out the woman was flustered because she saw a lost dog who needed help but ignored it. She felt guilty about it and wanted to go back and find the dog, but the husband didn't get it. He was very dismissive and said dogs get lost all the time and it was none of her business if someone can't keep track of their animal. Oh boy. This better not be a bad omen. I knocked, hoping to interrupt him berating her, and they let me in. Owen and Jilliana Sage are their names. Owen works at a store and seemed to have a good sense of humor, so maybe he's not so bad. Jilliana is more serious and super smart. She works at the space center, but I don't remember what she said she does there.
She tried to introduce me to the babies, Xavier and Zahava, but they both started screaming because Owen had the TV way too loud. Xavier calmed down enough to let me hold him, though. He was so tiny and made me miss Desiree at that age. I didn't intend to spend the day with them, and they clearly had things to do, so I told them to call me if they needed anything and made my exit.
I had to pass by Chi Chi's house on the way back home, so I stopped by to tell her we were moving to Gibbs Gardens soon. She was bummed about not being around the corner from us anymore, but relieved we weren't leaving the city. Behind her eyes, however, there seemed to be more than just disappointment at losing her favorite neighbor. I asked if something was wrong, and in Chi Chi-like fashion, I got way more than I bargained for.
As she began this tale, my initial reaction was to beat myself up again about not being a good friend because the details of her story started a while ago. But I stopped those thoughts before my brain ran away with them. We all have super busy lives. No one has time to be involved at such a granular level anymore, and no one is expecting us to know everything. I am a good friend, and I don't have to know every detail to prove it. Come to think about it, my friends—minus Dub—know less about me than I know about them. Needless, I'm done with stressing myself about this.
Chi Chi's woes began with her birthday a few weeks back. Like many women her age (especially when they are as fine as she is), she didn't handle the adult birthday well. Of course, she knew her body would change, but like me, seeing it hit differently. Between that and the little lines creeping from the corners of her eyes and across her forehead, she's feeling frumpy. I almost laughed. She is still one of the most beautiful women I've ever seen. Frumpy where?? She would turn heads wearing a paper bag. I bet she could gain 300 pounds, shave off her hair, and still have a trail of thirsty men following her everywhere. Still, if the aging stuff was the only thing she had to deal with, she would be fine in time. The problem is all her other worries reinforce the aging issues, and she is struggling. The short version of the story is her life has not turned out how she imagined. She once told me she wanted to remarry and have more kids, but all the dates she's been on led nowhere. Now, as an adult, she's thinking about giving up on that dream, especially when she's about to be a grandmother! Karmine, her daughter, is grown grown now. She moved her boyfriend into the house without even discussing it. Then, she got pregnant and moved out, so Chi Chi is all alone in the house with nothing but these crushing thoughts to keep her company, and she's not doing that great.
I had no idea if it would help, but I decided to share my midlife crisis story. It felt wrong at first because I never told Sophia I was struggling, but if Chi Chi can walk away feeling better, the discomfort will be worth it. Even though her story is different, I identified with everything she said because I realized life rarely turns out exactly how we plan. The reason is because we never factor in trouble or change. Our plans are always perfect and positive. When change and trouble comes, we feel out of control, like our world is falling apart. But the world isn't falling apart. It's the same as it always was. We just haven't taken off our rose-colored glasses yet.
I told Chi Chi everything would be okay, and she should look at it from a positive perspective. Because she's not starting a new family, and is an empty nester, she's got so much extra time to do all those bucket list things she's been looking forward to. And since she won't have any young children to raise, she has time to time to be super grandma and help her daughter through those oh so difficult first two stages. She's still really young and can reinvent herself if she wanted. And when love finally finds her again, and I believe it will, it will be all about them with no one else coming between them. They'll grow old together and be annoyingly in love.
Like I said, I have no clue if my little pep talk helped, but at least I left her smiling. Kinda like grieving, she'll find her way to accepting her new normal, and when she does, she'll appreciate the picture I painted for her.
#ISBI challenge#sims 4 story#sims 4 gameplay#adolting#adolting gen 3#luca winston murillo#owen and sage#xochitl luna#tenant drama courtesy of eavesdropping and secrets lol
15 notes
·
View notes
Text
these "what to get for someone you care about for their birthday" websites are utterly useless and i want my time back.
#seriously! im not buying your overpriced and rather unnecessary product that she wouldn't like anyway.#im not asking you to give me a product im asking you to give me ideas for what i can get my Friend#for her birthday. which is in november#am i being too anxious for something i have about two months to prepare for? i am. i do not plan to stop#ahem! i do hope to get her a black t-shirt but that is not enough by itself at all#i already set the norm for what sort of gifts i'll be getting her yesterday when i brought her an entire assortion of gifts in an -#- overpriced box.#and i am more than hoping to keep that up! especially for her birthday! come on...#what else could be special for her?#i've already given her a journal of diaries directed at her. and a keychain. and an astronaut eraser/pencil sharpener. and chocolate bars#she doesn't like jewelry so i can't get that...#hm. ten millions explosions#🌙rambling#delete later
2 notes
·
View notes
Note
For the reader rejecting her soulmate by hiding the fact that they're soulmates drabble, can we get that with Gojo Satoru?
Coming from clan of sorcerers and being one of the most promising heirs, reader was hoping that her soulmate was just a regular human being so that she could have a reason to abandon the Jujutsu world and live a normal life. But unfortunately for her, her wishes were granted backwards. So backwards that she got someone from a prominent clan who also happened to be the strongest sorcerer known to man. Not wanting to deal what fate has given her, she hid her true mark made up a fake one and informed her clan she's leaving to keep her "soulmate" safe. They were disappointed but accepted none the less, and just like that she left for a normal life.
Despite thinking she avoided fate, what she doesn't know is that a simple faking of a mark does not sever a soulmates' connection. Especially when fate has forcibly involved her with someone like Gojo.
I love this and I love you for coming up with it. NGL I was influenced by the amazing @envy-of-the-apple and the INCREDIBLE Gojo fics they've made. Don't get your hopes up for this story, it's not nearly as good as theirs LOL
Title: I Don’t Want Love
Pairings: Gojo Satoru x Reader
WARNINGS: yandere themes, swearing, violence, implied murder
“If I leave before you
And I walk out alone
Keep your hands to yourself
When you follow me home
I don't want love
I don't want love”
-From “I Don’t Want Love” by The Antlers
You would turn eighteen at exactly 1 am, on the dot. You had set up a mirror on your bed, aimed straight at your upper arms.
12 seconds to go…
You wondered which arm it would appear on. That isn’t what really mattered, of course.
7 seconds…
You wondered if you could tell if the person was average or ordinary by just the symbol alone.
3…
2…
1…
The silence in your room suffocated you. Your heart sank into the pit of your stomach.
It looked like a hand with the index and middle finger twisted together. You knew that symbol. You’d seen it every damn day.
Gojo Satoru. Your soulmate was Gojo Satoru.
The weight of your fate crushed you. This was even worse than the outcome you had feared the most. You had prayed for an ordinary person, someone who could whisk you away from this world of curses and responsibilities. You just wanted someone who could offer you the normal life you so desperately craved.
Instead, fate had bound you to the most powerful sorcerer alive, a man whose very existence was a magnet for danger and chaos. A man who would never, ever live an ordinary life.
“No fucking way…” you whispered to yourself, shaking your head frantically as though you could just simply deny what was seared into your right shoulder. You couldn’t accept this. You wouldn’t accept this.
You knew what you had to do. Your clan was skilled in concealment techniques and, with a bit of effort, you covered the mark on your right shoulder, and created a false mark on your left. It was a simple sun, unremarkable in every way. The perfect lie you could craft to fool your family, the world, and maybe even yourself.
The symbol could belong to anyone. Anyone but Gojo Satoru, who had been showing off his mark since his 18th birthday last year.
When the next morning came, your parents’ faces fell at the sight of the ordinary sun on your left shoulder.
“Oh, I was hoping you’d get a powerful sorcerer,” your mother had never sounded more disappointed, “Someone like that nice Satoru boy.” You hid a wince.
Your father crossed his arms, “Are you sure you want to leave our world behind for some ordinary man?”
You shrugged, acting like the decision was out of your hands. “I can’t drag an ordinary person who can’t even see curses into our world,” you replied.
Your parents agreed and, without much more resistance, you headed out to a world where everyone was oblivious to the existence of curses.
A world you had always wanted to be a part of.
—-----------------------------------------------------
1 am on the dot for Gojo Satoru was like waking up in a bath filled with ice cubes. He shot out of his bed, panting and ready to fight whatever curse had found its way into his room. Then, he felt a warmth spreading over his soulmate’s mark and he relaxed, a smile playing across his face.
His soulmate had reached her 18th birthday!
Gojo’s smile widened as he pulled up his sleeve and studied the mark on his arm, the intertwined fingers that must match yours. For months, he had anticipated this moment- the day his soulmate would finally know of their connection!
Then, a strange, muted feeling. As if all of the warmth had been sucked out of him and his senses had been dulled. His smile sank into a frown.
His soulmate was attempting to hide their bond.
He was no stranger to concealment techniques- he was a sorcerer of unparalleled strength. But why would his beloved soulmate try to hide her mark?
It bothered him, but also piqued his curiosity. You must know who he was (everyone did), so why were you trying to hide from him?
Gojo’s frown deepened as the muted sensations got stronger. His soulmate was actively hiding from him. He couldn’t help but wonder, irritation spiking, why you would go to such lengths.
This wasn’t some simple concealment- you were rejecting the bond itself. And how dare you? He was the strongest sorcerer alive, you should be goddamned proud to be his soulmate!
He took a deep breath and tried to remain calm. He’d wait until the morning and find out whose birthday it was. Then, he’d approach you and figure out what you were playing at.
—------------------------------------------------------
One month had passed since your birthday, and you had already gotten yourself a job as a receptionist at a law firm. Your parents’ money would buy you an apartment for a few months, but you’d be expected to take care of yourself after that.
One of the lawyers, a tall, handsome man named Akira, was always stopping by your desk, flirting casually with you. You encouraged it full-heartedly. He was handsome, kind, intelligent and best of all…
He was normal.
Akira smiled as he stopped by your desk for the third time that day, “So, I was wondering-”
Briiiiing
“Sorry, hold that thought,” you winked up at him, picking up the desk phone, “Thank you for calling Hashimoto Law Firm, my name is (Y/n), how may I assist you today?”
There was no response, except for heavy breathing. Unnerved, you tried again, “Thank you for calling, how may I assist you?”
More heavy breathing followed and you gave it one last shot, “If you are speaking, I’m unable to hear you. Please call back again if you are in need of our services.”
You hung up, heart pounding for a reason you couldn’t place. Your right shoulder began to burn and your heart just about stopped altogether.
“What’s the matter?” Akira asked, concern in his voice.
You straightened up, avoiding his gaze, “Just a prank call.”
Akira took the answer with a nod, still looking concerned for you, “Don’t take prank calls too seriously. It’s usually just a kid on the other line.”
You swallowed thickly- you had a feeling you knew exactly who was on the other line.
Akira looked up at the clock, “Ah, it’s time to clock out for the day.” You followed his gaze and your stomach twisted unpleasantly.
“Will you walk me home?” you blurted out.
Akira’s eyebrow raised, “Did that prank call spook you that badly?”
“I’m worried it may be my ex,” you lied, “And if he knows where I work, he could be waiting outside for me.”
Akira smiled and offered you his hand, “No ex-boyfriend will get anywhere near you if I have anything to do with it.”
You smiled back.
The walk to your apartment had your heart pounding in your chest and your hands shaking. Akira’s larger, warmer hand slipped into yours and you squeezed it for reassurance.
You were nearly to your apartment complex when Akira whispered, “Someone’s following us.”
You realized there were not two but three pairs of footsteps walking down this street. You didn’t need to look back to know who it was- the burning on your right shoulder told you all you needed to know.
“You keep going, I’ll tell him off,” Akira said.
You wanted to tell him to stay with you, to not risk his life over you. You wanted to tell him that the person he was going to face was infinitely stronger than him.
But you were selfish.
As soon as Akira turned around, you broke into a run. You heard the man make a confused sound, as though he had tried to punch air (or, more likely, infinity) and then a bloodcurdling scream cut off by the pained, guttural noise of someone being punched so hard that their organs were being ruptured.
Maybe it wasn’t that bad, maybe that was your imagination running wild, but you didn’t turn around to see if you were right. Each time you heard that fleshy sound of a fist caving in someone’s chest, you just ran faster.
As soon as you had reached your apartment, you bolted the apartment door shut, grabbed your suitcase, and began stuffing things inside with trembling hands.
Akira was most likely dead and all you could think about was how you had to change jobs and move right away. Were you heartless?
Maybe. But your soulmate mark wasn’t burning anymore and that was all that mattered.
—----------------------------------------------------
The next morning, you arrived at the law firm, ready to quit. You walked inside and found your boss already waiting for you. “Have you seen Akira? He was meant to be here an hour ago?”
“I haven’t,” you murmured, “Look, I have to quit-”
The door opened behind you and you spun around, hoping it was Akira, safe and sound. Instead, you were met with the sight you wanted to see least.
A tall man with white hair and a blindfold around his eyes. Gojo Satoru in the flesh.
“Oh, Mr. Gojo! Yes, you must be! Ah, why don’t you take that thing off your face?” your boss was quick to welcome the man, “Take a seat, (Y/n), you can take notes for us since Akira’s slept in.”
You remained standing, frozen in place as Gojo walked by you. Your soulmate was scalding hot, burning your skin so hotly that you let out a small hiss of pain.
“I’ll keep this on, if you don’t mind,” Gojo said, his voice carefree, “Now, about what we talked about yesterday…”
You began to inch towards the door.
“(Y/n), please take notes,” your boss said sternly. You jumped at the sharp tone of voice and found yourself helplessly obeying.
I need to quit. I need to leave!
Your thoughts didn’t match your actions. All you could do was hope that Gojo didn’t feel anything on his soulmate mark.
“So, Mr. Gojo, I understand you wanted to start a legal case about securing your soulmate?” your boss asked.
All of the blood drained from your face.
“Yes,” you couldn’t see Gojo’s stunning blue eyes but you knew they were looking directly at you, “You see, she’s a shy one. But, legally, I own her since she’s my soulmate. And she owns me, of course, too, but she’s not the one filing for an arranged marriage here.”
The two men shared a laugh as you began to feel faint. Unsteadily, you wobbled for a moment, before you collapsed to the floor.
“(Y/n)?” your boss stood up, surprised, “Should I call for medical attention?”
“Oh, that’s alright,” Gojo said, reaching out for you with a vicious grin.
“You see, I know just what she needs.”
#yandere#yandere x reader#yandere one shot#one shot#yandere gojo#gojo satoru#yandere jujutsu kaisen#jujutsu kaisen
407 notes
·
View notes
Text
reminiscing ꩜ ln4
type: instagram/twitter au
Fans suffer days leading to love's holiday without their favorite couple.
lily said: hi! my first fic here, my first social media au ever, hope u enjoy :) will be a part 2 and 3..maybe more as well. whatever my heart desires and such
call her daddy podcast, 2/6/23
alex cooper and special guest: y/n l/n
y/n l/n: my friends keep trying to get me on dates, but i don't know, i'm just too much of a homebody right now. trying my best, but i'm rusty.
alex cooper: right, and i totally don't want to bring it up, if you don't want it out, but...
y/n l/n: no, it's totally fine. and yes, i'm single. it's one of those things i figured people will start to pick up on, it's kinda how life like this goes.
alex cooper: like a microscope on your relationship?
y/n l/n: exactly. made stuff super stressful, especially since we started dating when we were 19.
alex cooper: shit, 5 years is longer than i thought!
y/n l/n: we grew up together, had so many highlights and growing pains, and i don't want to get on your show and wallow or pout, that's really not what i feel. and i hope no one thinks anyone did anything wrong, it's just a growth thing. some people, as they grow, grow differently. and apart, i guess.
alex cooper: but you still have love for each other, i know that for sure.
y/n l/n: i'll never ever lose that love, i don't think.
Liked by pierregasly, arthur_leclerc, and 1,264,997 others
landonorris Quite a birthday today! Another year around the sun, another year of me kissing your face. Love you the most.
user1 yassss OUR girlfriend!
yourusername To the moon and back baby!!!!
yourusername Not pictured: his slobber on my cheek
landonorris You quite like my slobber, no? oscarpiastri I surely don't
user2: you two really are growing up together :')
View more comments...
Liked by zendaya, kendalljenner, and 1,754,132 others
yourusername Sweet boy took me for a picnic, had too much wine hahaha. Thank you all for the birthday wishes, my heart is singing!!!! 23, woah am I close to getting old?
user1 SWEET BOY oh you people are sick
landonorris The most stunning girl, even napping
landonorris and yes you're old now user2 CORNYYYY (i'm ready to end it all) user3 "you're old now" and what are you??
emrata Wine's always a good idea
bellahadid happy birthday baby! come visit soon
user4 does that say lando on her necklace . i'm gonna snap soon
sza Loveeeee. U my favorite, Happy Solar Return!
View more comments...
Liked by alpinegoss, paddocktea, and 16,821 others
f1gossipcentral submission from a fan today in monaco:
i met lando today with a few others, he was so nice! we didn't want to ask flat out about y/n, he actually brought her up in passing when someone mentioned being from the same hometown as her, and he pointed it out himself. he didn't have the same energy we're used to when speaking about her, but it's obvious there was love in his voice, a lot of it. he's still got her friendship bracelet she made him last year on, but i think it's the type you'd have to cut to get off. regardless, i hope the best for him, and her too.
user1 you're telling me just the name of her hometown and he BLURTS about her?? AFTER being broken up??? yeah we're never seeing pearly gates atp
user2 is this what a broken home feels like?
user3 SHATTERED home. and yes. user4 y/n lando please. come home the kids miss you
user5: single y/n...don't hate me but i would love a baddie era
user6: oh this is not a safe space for you.
View more comments...
#f1 imagine#f1 x reader#lando norris imagine#lando norris x reader#social media au#f1 social media au#f1 instagram au#f1 instagram edit
1K notes
·
View notes
Text
okay so i keep thinking about this post that i made about a polywagon soulmates au where they have eachother's birthdays on their arms (including hermie's like... three years ago and 1912) and im not gonna write it but i AM gonna think about how differently the teens would handle it
Taylor:
taylor would be SO thrilled, he thinks it makes him extra like an anime protaganist to have not only four soulmates, but also one long dead soul mate (perhaps the SAME soulmate, thats been reincarnated to the youngest soulmate, god thats such an ANIME PLOTLINE--)
he shows them off, and knows at the very least about normal from when they hung out as little kids, but anytime someone asks if he knows who they are he just mysteriously goes 'heh'
hangs out with normal a lot more pre-canon, considers him his main "sidekick"
when he was little his mom tried to explain that the two weird dates were sort of common, and that sometimes soulmates can be platonic, sometimes they don't cross paths time-wise, etc, but he literally could not give less of a shit he thinks it's COOL
Normal:
normal is so excited!! he has FOUR soulmates!! four!! so many people are destined to love him as foretold by the UNIVERSE!!
lark 100% has tried to disillusion him on the whole thing (the other kiddads know about link, especially after their kids were born with a soulmark dating back to the TITANIC and grant had to come clean) but it didn't really work
he knows about taylor from when they were little kids, and he ABSOLUTLEY hunted down a school directory with everyone's birthdays to try and find everyone else, so he knows about scary, he's just waiting for her to bring it up first
very clingy to taylor pre-canon and definitly annoys scary trying to get her to hang out with them
he's a firm believer in being able to have More Soulmates than just your soulmark, so from pretty early on he's really trying to manifest hermie and link into also being his soulmates (and is SO EXCITED to find out he's right)
Link:
sad boy :( he thinks that taylor and normal are HIS soul mates but he isn't either of theirs :(
his dads definitely just chose the day they found him to be his birthday since they don't know exactly when he was born, so not only does the year of the 1912 soulmark not match, but his birthday doesn't even either
grant is REALLY worried about link getting found out as a Titantic Baby/trying to keep him safe that he actually actively decides to go the most upsetting approach by telling link basically that sometimes it happens where soulmates don't match up perfectly
marco isn't really for THAT, and tries to push nontraditional soul-matches and platonic soulmate things but it's not really effective
it's part of why link is So clingy to his dads and doesn't like the idea of siblings/pets, he already is predisposed to the idea of there not being enough love to go around
he's really happy but also SO MAD after the titanic discovery
i'm trying to decide if it's funnier if hermie is his soulmate or if link is the only person who ISN'T soulmates with hermie
hermie's soul-date is replaced by fuckinnnn chris from the simulation's birthday for link hfjdkl
Scary:
when she was little she was so so so so so so so excited about soulmates, especially having FOUR
she was super sad about her presumably dead 1912 soulmate, and really hopes that they had other soulmates too that matched up with them better
kind of hopes the much younger soulmate IS a platonic soulmate so she doesn't have to wait longer to meet them
she 100% threw secret birthday parties for her soulmates when she was little
her parents weren't soulmates, but her mom and terry jr are, which just adds to her hurt and confusion when they get together
once she becomes emo TM she starts one wearing long sleeves to hide her soulmarks and claims that she doesn't HAVE any to sound edgy (even though a lot of people know that she does because like,,, a year ago she wouldn't shut up about them)
tries to deny for a really long time that her and the other teens are soulmates but when she gets doodlerized doodle-scary exposes her and shes UPSET about it
hermie:
kind of refused to acknowlege the teens are his soulmates, no matter how obvious it is
baffled when it becomes clear HIS birthday is the one on everyone elses arms but just from like,,, three years ago becuase that's not??? when he was born???
he's half convinced his soulmarks are part of some scam instead of being real and... honestly so am i
build-a-bear hermie either has no soulmarks or they're in a different place from regular hermie's, like they're not exactly... real?? and it makes it even sadder/more confusing from everyone emotionally after everything (except taylor, whose like 'idk still hermie')
bonus d00d:
idk i just want them to be included :) maybe everyone has like a random string of numbers somewhere exceedingly non traditional like their ankle that mean nothing to them until woah eldritch monstronisty yeah that would do it
they dont have soulmarks but they make themselves look like they do becuase really what is a soulmate if not the friends we made along the way
#polywagon#dungeons and daddies#dndads#taylor swift dndads#normal oak#normal oak swallows garcia#lincoln li wilson#scary marlowe#hermie the unworthy#d00d#soulmate au
63 notes
·
View notes
Note
Can you make a Batmom story where she gets kidnapped and brainwashed by the joker?
YOU'RE STILL IN MY HEART!
She opened her eyes feeling the bright light hit her. She looked around for a second taking in her surroundings, she was definitely in a hospital because of the hideous clothes she was wearing and all the tubes and sorts. She saw two kids sitting on the chairs sleeping peacefully.
She slowly got out of bed, gently walking towards one of the boys. Shaking his shoulder, suddenly he woke up and gazed at his mother. "Mom, are you okay, how are you? wait no you need to get back into bed," she was confused about why on earth this boy called me her mom. "Umm, sweetie I am not your mother and actually where are your parents?" What the fuck was Dick's face at this moment. Did his mother just forget who he was, panicked he woke up Damian. "What do you- UMMI are you okay, I was so worried". But to his surprise, she just stared at him.
She called the nurse and asked for the children to be taken to their real parents, but the nurse only said to wait a moment and returned with a man. Y/N was relieved but for the wrong reason, "Excuse me sir, but your kids keep calling me mom and I don't find that appropriate". Now Bruce was even more confused, "Honey what are you talking about?" Moving closer to her only for her to step back. She claimed she didn't know who he was, Bruce tried to explain that they were married and these were their kids Dick, Jason, Tim, and Damian. But all she said was why would I name my child Dick? this made Dick not happy and refused to say anything after this humiliation.
They took her to Wayne Manor where she was astonished that she even lived here. Alfred had hoped for Mrs.Wayne to be alright but was hurt by the discovery of her loss of memory. Their children especially Jason wanted to take revenge on the Joker but because of Batman no killing rule he couldn't kill him but theirs no rule for torture.
Bruce decided that he would sleep in the guest room tonight till his wife was comfortable. Jason volunteered to take to her room, helping her up the stairs to her room. Jason didn't take the news well, he was always a mama boy and would always say he loved mom more than dad (it was true).
A few hours later it was time for dinner usually Y/N would ask how everyone's day was but she just sat in silence playing with her food. It was awkward, to say the least, Tim felt all emotions when looking at his mother but was especially sad she didn’t even glance at him or care he was drinking coffee at night in front of her. But to everyone's dismay, she left sitting on the couch staring off into the distance. Guys, why don't we show her some pictures and tapes of us together, she will surely remember, Damian had said to bring our hopes up. It was worth the shot, Bruce exclaimed getting up along with Alfred to get everything ready.
They set up everything with the utmost perfection, they all gather around the TV ready to show their mom everything.
Dick was the first one to show. "Good morning everyone it is currently 7:30 am, and we're here to wake up little dickie for his 11th birthday", his mother said next to her was his dad. "Honey, he's the only one who was probably watching this-" only to be interrupted by his wife shushing him. Bruce aimed the camera towards their son laying their drooling on his pillow. "Alright, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!" They screamed together only to cause Dick to fall off his bed and onto the floor but he quickly recovered hugging his parents and blowing out his candles. "What did you wish for Dick?" Y/N asked, hoping her son would give some hints, but he kept his mouth shut, stuffing himself with the chocolate cake. "Best birthday Ever!!" Dick said with a toothy grin with cake all over his mouth.
Seeing this brought very vague memories but it was very slowly coming back. It looked so perfect, they were so perfect. Bruce looks over at his wife seeing something spark within her deciding to move on to Jason's video.
Batmom was holding the camera with excitement all over her face. "Can you believe this, it's my baby bird's first Prom" Suddenly she started crying like a child not ready to let him go. Jason hugged his mother wearing a fancy black suit with his hair styled nicely looking like a prince. "Mom, don't cry I will always be your baby bird no matter what", trying to calm his mother down by rubbing her shoulders. "You better keep your promise," Y/N said in a threatening tone. She took many pictures of Jason and his date together before they were off in the limo. Their Y/N was hand in hand with her husband reciting all their Prom memories together sharing heartfelt laughs.
It was Tim's graduation video next, It shows Y/N and Bruce holding flowers and a poster saying congratulations on getting out of school, with excited grins. Finally, Tim's name was called with honors only to be interrupted by his mother screaming and shouting that's my son! Tim had made valedictorian and boy was Y/N proud of her Timmy. She took many videos, silently remembering to brag about this to the other moms. Tim ended his speech with a final thank you to his parents, especially his mother. "Ohhh Bruce, did you hear that? he thanked me for his accomplishments," crying and sobbing at the same time. Many people turned around but the Bat family did not care with proud grins on their faces. Everyone later congratulated Tim with his mother repeatedly kissing his forehead and hugging him so tight.
Tim watched the video remembering everything that happened that day after they went to his favorite restaurant with a giant cake his mom ordered just for him. He couldn't hold back his tears and hugged his mom and to his surprise, she hugged him back just as tight with tears in her eyes.
next was Damian video, It was Christmas day, and all the children raced down the stairs to open their presents. It was also Damian first Christmas with the Bat-family. "Ok, kids since it is Damian's first Christmas with us he will open his presents first," Batmom said handing her son his first gift with an excited grin. Damian and the rest of the kids heard Meow Meow, Damian ripped to wrapping paper off the box opening it to find a cute small black kitty cat. Damian was ecstatic hugging his Ummi and father. "What are you going to name it?" Bruce said with a lace of curiosity in his voice. "I vote Demon spawn," Jason shouted only to receive a murderous glare from Damian. "I am going to name it Alfred the cat," Damian said. "I guess we have Alfred the first," Y/N said while pointing at Alfred who was sipping his tea. And Bruce finishes and says Alfred the second while holding the adorable cat.
All the kids looked over to see their mother crying with tears streaming down her eyes ruining her mascara not like she cared. All her babies ran to her including Bruce hugging her tight trying to stop the tears. "Oh kids, I remember and I am so sorry I have forgotten but looking at you all, you make me so proud." Now it wasn't just Y/N who was crying but everyone was even Alfred who shed a tear, "Come on Alfred join us," Y/N said pulling Alfred in the hug and not letting his reply. It was perfect, they were perfect no matter how chaotic her family gets they will always have each other no matter what.
#batfam x batmom#batfam x reader#batman#bruce wayne x reader#batmom#batmom imagine#batmom!reader#batmom imagines#jason todd#dick grayson#damian wayne#tim drake#damian al ghul#batman and robin#bruce wayne#bru
260 notes
·
View notes
Text
can we talk about how foolish is the best and most caring person???
just based off of pepito’s birthday party: the only person that showed up was foolish and they spent the entire time having a blast. he made sure pepito was having fun, made his dream of being a superhero come true (gave him his only spiderman head), didn’t bring up the lack of people, treated the entire party as normal.
but not only that, but with leo, he is so patient, even when she is being incredibly stubborn. if she doesn’t want to do something, foolish always finds another solution to make her feel comfortable (even if he acts begrudgingly about it). he has made such an effort to communicate in her first language. doesn’t coddle her, but will still spoil her at times. has helped her in so many ways!
and with the other eggs? he doesn’t treat any of them differently. he doesn’t treat them like fragile little babies and instead sees them as normal as anyone else. he isn’t afraid to punch them or fight them, isn’t afraid they’ll get lost or hurt if they wander off. everyone else treats them like these incredibly fragile pieces of glass, but sometimes they just want to live normally and be treated normally.
and with his irl friends? whenever he isn’t on the qsmp, he’s always sitting in a voice call just in case anyone wants to join and maybe play games or just hangout and vibe. he always acknowledges his friends in chat, and is always willing to do what others want to do. he makes time for everyone when he can.
even the other islanders on qsmp. foolish is always willing to play along and do what they want to do, and help out especially. he’s been working hard on his spanish so he can communicate better, but he’s always been willing and trying to learn french and portuguese when he can from others. he’s always including people, not leaving anyone behind or forgetting about them.
and finally, his chat! thousands of people watching him for hours almost everyday, and he doesn’t treat any of them differently than others. he makes such a safe space to be normal and whoever they want to be while maintaining some routine for everyone. he does his best to update when he’s streaming and when he isn’t (even if the times are always off LMAO). he reminds the doozers not to get their hopes up so he doesn��t disappoint them when things don’t go as he once said. he keeps things very light and relaxing most of the time, just a perfect place to vibe and hangout, or have the stream in the background. he never fails to make anyone laugh, or feel welcome, or safe in general. he keeps the lonely doozers company with the long and almost daily streams.
and on top of all of this, he never asks for praise. he never asks even for acknowledgement. he’s just doing what he loves, and that’s what matters to him.
foolish is one of the best people i know. and he deserves more credit and love than ever. but i am just happy to have him around. we need more people like him in the world.
#he deserves more love#he’s amazing tbvh#idk what id do without him#foolish gamers#foolish#qsmp foolish#qsmp
157 notes
·
View notes
Text
Rice, Rice, baby | Chapter 1
Summary: Liv and Declan, Declan and Liv, or the story about how a born and raised Tottenham girl falls in love with an Arsenal player... and its consequences.
Author’s note: Best way to celebrate my birthday? By sharing a new story about my beloved 🥳🫶🏻 I started writing this story back in October after making this gif (that's how Declan looks on this first chapter), and I got so inspired that I even managed to write like a script with everything I wanted to happen from beginning to end, which doesn't happen very often or never tbh 😅 I hope you like it as much as I do, and as always, thank you for reading! 💜
Next chapter
Masterlist
"And don't forget about the national team staying with us next week. We need to be at our best, the club wants them to keep coming here and not go back to Carrington or any other training centre" our boss says.
"We always are at our best."
"I know, Alex. But you know what I mean.”
"Yeah, we have to kiss their asses" he mutters.
"Shh" I tell him, hoping our boss hasn't heard him.
"You know it's true" he whispers. "Since we don't have enough with our princesses, now we'll have new ones. And I'm sure they are even more annoying."
"If you dislike football and this job so much, why don't you quit?"
"I don't dislike football, Liv. I dislike football players, it isn't the same” Alex says. “And I don't quit because Tottenham is the team me and my dad support, they happen to pay really well, and I need the money. Besides, what will your dad say? He helped me get this job, I can't disappoint him."
"He'll survive" I chuckle.
"I don't think so. If I'm not here, who will make sure his daughter doesn't end up sleeping with a football player? Especially now that we are gonna have some Arsenal ones in the building. They are the enemy."
"That is so stupid."
"The rivalry between Tottenham and Arsenal isn't stupid, Liv. Please show some respect."
"Whatever" I reply, trying to focus again on what our boss is explaining.
━━━━━━❃━━━━━━
"Ready to meet our new princesses?" I ask Alex.
"No."
"Well, too late. They are here" I say when the doors of the cafeteria open and the players from England's national team start walking in, Harry Kane leading them.
"Urgh, not him" Alex groans.
"Shut up and get to work. And don't forget to smile."
"I don't want to smile at him. Or at any of them."
"Hello, guys. Nice to see you again."
"Harry, hi!" I say. "How are the Germans treating you?"
"Good, all good. How are you around here?"
"All good too" I smile. "Same as always?"
"Same as always, Liv."
After Harry some other players like Rashford, Stones or Bellingham also come get their orders, and then…
"Hi, what can I get… you" I say, getting lost in the most beautiful blue eyes I have ever seen.
"A latte, please" he smiles.
"A… a la… a…" I mumble.
"Liv… Liv… Olivia!" Alex says, hitting my arm.
"Ouch! What?"
"His order" he says, nodding towards the blue eyed God in front of me. "Didn't you hear him?"
"I… Yes. A latte."
"That's it" he smiles again, the most stupid giggle ever leaving my mouth. What an amazing first impression, Olivia.
"I… Umm…" I mumble again.
"Liv, hey! Long time no see!"
"Madders, we saw each other three days ago" I say, my brain remembering how to work after hearing his voice.
"It feels like an eternity" he smiles. "Have you met Dec yet?"
"Uh?"
"Mr. Declan Rice. The most expensive English football transfer in history" he laughs, wrapping his arm around the blue eyed God's neck and messing up his hair, somehow making it look even better than it already did.
"You… what?"
"You hadn't recognized him?" Madders says. "I know he's had a big glow up, but he hasn't changed that much since the Euros."
"Yeah… I…" I say, feeling my cheeks on fire and the stupidest person in the world. How did I not recognize one of England's best players?
"Anyway, can I get the same as always?"
"He asked first."
"But he plays for Arsenal and I am a Tottenham boy, Liv. What will your dad say?" Madders smirks.
"Her dad?" Declan asks with a confused look.
"He's been working for Tottenham since before we all were born and hates anything Arsenal" Madders explains. "So if he finds out that you are favouring him over me…"
"You are so annoying, James" I say, rolling my eyes.
"Yet you love me" he smiles. "So, can I get my usual?"
"No" I say, turning around and getting Declan's order ready.
"You are so rude, Olivia…"
"Yet you love me" I reply, making Declan laugh. "Your latte."
"Thank you, Liv" he smiles as he takes his cup, our fingers barely touching but being enough to make my face burn once again.
"You're welcome" I giggle. You are so lame, Olivia. Dear God.
"Can I get my coffee now or are you gonna keep smiling at each other like two teenagers in love?" Madders asks.
"What?" Declan and I say at the same time.
"Flirting with an Arsenal player, Liv… What will your dad say?"
"Shup up, James" I say, turning towards the coffee machine to hide that my face now must be the same colour as Declan’s Arsenal shirt.
"You are an idiot, bro" I hear him say before walking away.
"What? Why? What did I say? Liv, hey. What did I say?"
"Just go drink your coffee, James" I sigh.
"But…"
"Go."
"You two are so weird… Made for each other" he winks, making me roll my eyes again.
Once I'm done with all the orders, I can't help but check around the cafeteria looking for Declan. During the Euros he had already caught my eye, but he didn't look as hot as he did right now. He was definitely aging like fine wine.
When I finally spot him, he's sitting next to other Arsenal players, a soft smile on his lips while sipping his coffee. And then… Then he turns to look at where I am. At me. And his smile grows wider, making my knees feel like jelly.
"Best coffee ever" he mouths, remarking each word.
"Thank you" I reply, definitely smiling like an idiot.
"Olivia, Olivia, Olivia…"
"Holy shit, Alex" I jump when I hear him next to me.
"Flirting with an Arsenal player at work? And him among them all? Your dad is gonna be so disappointed…"
"Shut up, Alex" I say, giving him a push that doesn't move him from where he is standing. "I'm gonna go check that we aren't running out of anything, you know how picky the boss is with that."
"Yeah, run away."
"Fuck you" I reply, showing him my middle finger and hoping no one from the national team has seen it. The least thing I need right now is someone complaining to our boss because of my bad behaviour.
As I leave, I can't help but look at Declan one last time, and to my surprise, he also is looking at me. And when our eyes meet…
"Holy shit" I whisper. Can you get turned on by a wink? Because I'm pretty sure that just happened.
#declan rice#declan rice fanfic#declan rice imagine#declan rice x reader#football fanfic#football imagine
71 notes
·
View notes
Text
◈—⌈ SENTFROMWOLVES ⌋ writeblr introduction ²⁰²⁴
Hi everyone, and welcome to my writeblr 2024 introduction. My name is Eran (they/he & freshly thirty) and I've been on writeblr for awhile, so you might've seen me around. ( •̀ ω •́ ) This is my yearly post to introduce the projects I'll be working on this year, what I write, and who I am. I'll be keeping it short and sweet.
I'd love to meet more writers this year, so if you write any of the following, or just like these genres, or even just wanna shout about ocs together, come holler and I'll give you a follow!
◈ — sci-fi and fantasy of any kind! cozy fantasy, romantasy, epic fantasy, space opera? this is my bread and butter, and I love shouting about it from the rooftops with others! ◈ — found families, ot3s, complicated soulmates. I am almost always writing about soulmates who have either killed each other at least once in the past or are planning some sort of murder. Complicated relationships, especially found families that aren't all rainbows and butterflies, are right up my alley. ◈ — queer and trans protagonists, large queer casts! all of my wips feature trans/nonbinary leads, and I'm always looking for more queer writer friends to connect with! ◈ — hope at the end of the tunnel, but hell to get to. I write stories with hopeful endings, with the sun on the horizon, with the promise that something better might now at long last be on the way. I love seeing characters get put through hell, but I love it even more when they make it to the other side. (if you write tragedy though, please know I will still cry on your doorstep if you'll have me) ◈ — corruption arcs, redemption arcs, sometimes both! Deeply nuanced characters with messy attitudes, and even messier actions. I'm just as equally obsessed with cool worldbuilding as I am with character-driven things, and I will yell about ocs all day, and maybe draw them too >:3 ◈ — big, epic, and sweeping worldbuilding! I am a huge fan of delving into the worldbuilding aspect of my wips. I love building magic systems, cultures, geographies, and more. One of my 2024 projects is doing a worldbuilding experiment blog at some point. I am always down to clown over worldbuilding, whether to sound board or just holler together!
There's a lot more I could say here, but this post can only get so long! Σ(っ °Д °;)っ my dms are always open, and I will follow back most of the time! But just to get all of the basics outta the way:
◈—« here's a quick and dirty rundown of how I work! »—◈
➺ I interact and follow from @calamityeden, so if you see that username, it's just me.✌️I am most active on discord, and if we become friends, you're more than welcome to ask to add me there. ➺ I am open to being tagged in writeblr games! Just know that I am not online all the time, and might be slow to respond to them. 🐌 ➺ My ask box and DMs are open, just please be respectful. I love meeting new writers and talking about projects! I am happy to chat and make new friends. You're always welcome! 💌 ➺ This is a strictly 18+ writeblr. Please DNI with me if you are a minor and respect my boundaries.
🪄You can find my core tags here under my writing and my graphics, as well as writer reminders, game train and catharsis. (❁´◡`❁) And now onto the fun part! My 2024 main project line up!
I have my main four listed here that you'll probably hear me yelling about pretty consistently, but I've also got a lot of other projects rattling around in my brain. So if you're ever curious about a project that's not here, feel free to yell at me about it! >:3
Genre: Dark Urban Fantasy Standalone.
Status: First Draft Complete (117k)—Revising for beta round one.
There's a clock tattooed on Nemesis's wrist, and when it reaches midnight on his 21st birthday, it will kill him. It doesn't help that his mom is the one that cursed him, and the demon currently possessing his car ate her before Nemesis could convince her to break the damned thing. Thankfully, Judge came prepared with an alternative: help him break into a mythical living city and steal its heart, and in return, he'll shatter Nemesis's curse for free. Accompanied by a three-headed hellhound, a haunted holy sword, and an excommunicated exorcist, Judge and Nemesis set their sights on an impossible heist. But the closer Nemesis gets to the heart, the more he begins to realize that he isn't the only one under a curse. And if he doesn't find a way to break Judge's soon, his own life will be forfeit as well.
Genre: Space Opera
Status: 2024 zero drafting from scratch
Two hundred years ago, humanity expanded to the stars only to find a cosmos filled with graves. But then their children began displaying the strange ability to commune with the alien ruins scattered across the planets, waking ancient, extrasolar mecha from their sleep, and turned the struggling colonies of space explorers into the fledgling galactic nation of Sol Galatea. Now, Wren Akane is on the run from the whole galaxy, wanted for the strange alien powers throbbing through his veins. His luck runs out when he accidentally awakens an ancient Relic in the desert of his planet, only to be embedded with the memories of its last pilot and the revelation that the war that littered the cosmos with graves is far from over. But no one believes Wren when he tells them that continuing to wake the Relics will bring the hostile alien empire that destroyed them back to Sol Galatea’s doorstep. Only Wren’s rival pilot, Marek Khalid, seems interested in a word Wren has to say. But Marek doesn’t want to save Sol Galatea. He has big plans for what to do when the aliens arrive, a rebellion to lead, and if Wren isn’t on his side, he’s in his way. With time running out, Wren must soon decide how far he’s willing to go to save the people that never tried to save him—or if Marek is right, and he should let the stars burn instead.
Genre: Adult Romantasy
Status: First Draft (1k/100k)
Once a year, Celestials from all across the Lumina Kingdom gather together for Eventide, the season of courtship, hoping to win the hand of the most eligible star at court. Sirius knows the game they play all too well: by day, he is the forgettable, miserable daughter of the Lumina Family, least of his seven siblings and wanted only for the royal blood running through his veins. By night, however, Sirius is the Starweaver—the mysterious dressmaker taking the kingdom by storm. Everyone wants to know the identity of the one responsible for elaborate outfits that turn even the quietest Celestial in the room into the star of the show, outshining even Sirius’s luminous sibling, Diana. When the infamous King Beyond Midnight arrives with the intent to wed Diana, Sirius finds his secret in jeopardy when the condition for their hand in marriage is a simple challenge: reveal the Starweaver's true identity. There’s no outsmarting Octavian for long, and soon, Sirius will have to make a choice: give up on his passion and stay hidden forever, or risk everything to stay true to who he really is.
Genre: Second World Urban Fantasy
Status: Outlining
Something changes the day that Nakano Touya returns to the crumbling city of Soma Lux. It starts with voices in the radio static, blurry figures caught on camera, always out of focus. When a monster crawls out of Touya's television screen and eats him, the last thing he expects is to find a strange, shadowy otherworld lurking on the other side. But his biggest problem isn't the monsters of the otherworld that want to eat him, or the talking cat that saved him, now living in his apartment without a care in sight. Soma Lux is experiencing a strange new epidemic—one that Touya is completely unaffected by. But when his half-sister falls comatose, Touya knows he has to get to the bottom of it all to save her—and find out why he's the only one immune. Accompanied by his jaded ex-boyfriend, Touya’s nosy classmates, a part-time fortune teller, and a cantankerous old hag, Touya dives into the murky underbelly of Soma Lux, where the realities have begun to bleed together between his world and the next.
That's all for now! >:3 Here's to an amazing 2024! (also my actual blog is a mess right now please do not mind it ksjndfskfn)
#writeblr intro#writing community#writeblr#my writing#my graphics#hey all hehe i just decided i'll probs do a fresh one of these every year to make sure i can pin an accurate wip list to the top#especially as i change wips from year to year!#i mostly am on discord#but i want to be able to meet new writer friends here too especially as the community grows!#seriously feel free to holler anytime#i'm usually around somewhere :3
107 notes
·
View notes
Text
Illicit Affairs | Chapter II: Right Where You Left Me
Pairing: Neteyam x Human!Reader (later Avatar!Reader)
Chapter I Chapter III Chapter IV Chapter V Chapter VI Chapter VII Chapter VIII Chapter IX Chapter X
Synopsis: You were one of two kids stuck on Pandora after the war took all the Sky People back to Earth. After a series of events left deep scars behind, you are now forced to deal with your trauma - and your lingering resentment towards Neteyam - head-on.
Warnings: angst, mentions of death, blood, injury
Word Count: 4,7k words
A/N: So I didn't expect the last chapter to do so well, but I am happy so many people enjoyed it. I have really enjoyed writing this and I am happy to say I am almost done with Chapter III, as well. I am feeling all the feels doing this, and I hope you do, too.
“I cause no harm, mind my business If our love died young, I can't bear witness And it's been so long But if you ever think you got it wrong … I'm right where you left me”
The next couple of weeks were uneventful. You haven’t seen Lo’ak since that afternoon, although Kiri’s dropped by a couple of times to keep you company while you worked. Getting her to put on a lab coat and goggles was an adventure in itself, but she eventually relents and does as she’s told.
She’s shooting you a sly smirk as you are busy pipetting a reagent on your samples under an aseptic hood. “Your birthday’s coming up soon, do you have any plans?” You could hear the smile in her voice, which you found odd. You pushed the feeling aside. Kiri’s odd, and the things that bring her amusement sometimes elude you, and you love her for it.
“Oh yeah, big party planned, I was thinking pres in the gym, then main party in the dining area and a wild after party in the lab.” You roll your eyes. Birthdays seem fun in movies and TV shows, but it really isn’t the same stuck in a tiny confined space with nothing to do. You were turning 18. Not of much significance to you, although this birthday does seem to hold some relevance back on Earth. 18 is the age you become an “adult”, where you become legally allowed to do all sorts of human things, like drink, smoke, vote, be held liable for your actions (this one still confuses you), get married, drive and so much more. It seemed strange to you that so much weight was placed on this day, and you wondered if when the clock struck midnight a few days from now, you will feel different, like something in your brain will click and you will have answers to all the questions you have been silently asking yourself at night.
“Thought so. Well, we do have a surprise for you.” She says, still smiling from ear to ear.
Has everyone you loved collectively decided to forget that you hate surprises? With a groan, you got up from your chair, removed the samples that you quickly placed back in an incubator, shut the hood and motioned for Kiri to follow you out of the lab.
It was later than you expected when you finished, and you knew Kiri would have to leave soon so she can make it back home in time for curfew.
“Anywayyy…” she says, refusing to let your sour mood damper her own, “I was thinking you could join us at the home tree for your birthday party. The family prepared something for you and you haven’t visited in so long, everyone misses you, especially Tuk.”
“Kiri…” You wanted to go, and were touched that it seems that the family actually wanted you around, but you were scared. You knew it was stupid, but deep down the guilt of what your species did, what your own dad might have done, eats at you every night. You knew that whilst the Sullys and maybe other Na’vi as well were more than welcoming, others regarded you as a curse, an alien with demon blood that should have been sent to her dying world long ago. You couldn’t deal with knowing your very existence was a reminder of their lost family, their destroyed home, their battle scars.
“Come onnn, girl, you can’t spend every damn day of your short human life in this place. I mean, I like this place, don’t get me wrong, but if I had to spend every minute of the day here, I’d kill myself. I mean the foooood, the artificial lightinnggg, the stuffy aiiiiir…” she dramatically dragged every word to make her point, and despite everything, you couldn’t really argue with her.
“I’m not leaving ’til you agree.”
“I mean I just have to wait long enough that curfew begins, and I’m pretty sure I’m gonna see you run out of this place leaving a Kiri-shaped hole in the wall of the lab.” you said, laughing at the frown that settled on her face at your stubborness. “Fine, Kiri, my God, I will be there.”
“Yay! Thank you, you won’t regret it, I promise!” You couldn’t help crack a smile at her enthusiasm, and you hugged your friend that was sitting on a chair, short enough this way to enable you to do so.
“Do you want to see Grace before you go?”
You forget sometimes Kiri isn’t Jake and Neytiri’s biological daughter. I wonder if they forget, too. Kiri is a miracle child, of sorts. Born out of Grace’s avatar, she was like a gift from Eywa herself. She always visits her Ma when she comes to see you.
Kiri shifts uncomfortably in the chair, prompting you to raise an eyebrow. Strange, you think to yourself.
“No, I should really go, I don’t want to be late getting home and I want to pick some herbs I saw on the path on the way here. I think they’ll be good for the illness going around.”
You wanted to push, but decided to let it go. You couldn’t blame the girl for maybe not wanting to be reminded that as well as Spider and yourself, she, too, was an outsider.
You said your goodbyes, and deciding against dinner with everyone in the lab, you made your way back to your room. You picked a book from the shelf of your mum’s old book collection; another thing that apparently became obsolete on Earth with time, your mum revelled in collecting them. She said the only way to properly experience a story is with a physical copy of it in your hands. You agreed. There were a lot of electronic copies of books in the directory, and while you spent so much of your life dedicating yourself to them, nothing compared to the feeling of holding a book, that you know has been held and experienced by another human. You found notes and dried up tears on the pages of these books even to this day, and every time, it brings you closer to your mum, to your grandparents, to a home you’ll never know for yourself. You fell asleep with one of the poems you read that night still fresh in your mind.
“I felt a Funeral, in my Brain,
And Mourners to and fro
Kept treading - treading - till it seemed
That Sense was breaking through -“
You woke up in the forest. You recognised the place immediately. Secluded from the village and near enough to the lab that even a child could find their way back, it was the perfect hiding spot for little Y/N. You didn’t go there anymore, you’ve barely allowed yourself to even think about it these days, but your dreams spoke to something deep inside you, a yearning you couldn’t drown out no matter how hard you tried. You looked towards the clearing, where the riverbank was almost unrecognisable past the foliage and rocks and allowed yourself a moment of respite. You were startled by a high pitched laugh, and turned your head towards its origin. A little girl, no older than 10, was running towards the bank holding on to an oxygen mask pack, giggling as she looked behind her to an emerging second figure. She was so happy, so…alive.
Her eyes were glossy from unshed tears, happiness so loud it expressed itself physically. A second child emerged from the shadows, just behind where you stood. A boy, tall and blue, with the same innocence behind his eyes, quickly caught up to where the girl now lay on a rock by the river.
“I won, Neteyam! I beat you!” The girl says, panting, laughing and crying all at once. The boy’s expression softened, and as he took his place next to the girl on the rock, gave her a small smile.
“You did! I didn’t try that hard, though. I want a rematch.”
��You’re on!”
The two kids sat in silence for awhile, enjoying the peace and quiet, the hushed whisper of the water and the bustling chirping of insects and birds hidden from view.
“I have something for you.” The boy suddenly said with a gummy smile.
From behind his back, he retrieves a bracelet. It was green, made up of numerous beads and tiny rocks that complemented each other so well, it seemed they were put on this planet for the very purpose of adorning a Na’vi’s body.
You recognised the bracelet and the sight of it tugged at your heart. You felt your eyes tear up and cursed your mind for putting you through this again.
“This is like your bracelet!” The tiny girl says, with a wide smile.
“Yes, I told ma I lost mine and asked her very nicely to make me another and she did! I want you to have it. This way I have one and you have one. Just you and me.”
Just you and me. Just you and me. Just you and me.
You woke up in tears, eyes locked on the bracelet in question that was still residing on your nightstand. You didn’t wear it anymore, but couldn’t find it in your heart to part with it fully. It now lay next to your head, a bitter reminder of yet another road not taken. You cursed Neteyam for coming back into your life, if only briefly, just to resurface hurt you are yet to deal with or even acknowledge fully. You curse him for the bracelet, and the memories and yet another pain you have to deal with on your own. Always on your own.
The next few days went by in a blur. You spent the days buried in work, and the nights exercising and field stripping weapons. You refused to think, or sleep, or read or play music or really anything to would give your heart the opportunity to take over again. You passed out last night in the gym, but it was a dreamless slumber, which you were grateful for. This night was your last night at 17. You were waiting patiently for the clock to strike midnight as you were finishing up your last experiment for the day. You glanced at the clock, once, then twice, then three times. Eventually, it happened. And then nothing. No answers, no epiphanies, no nothing. Disappointed, but not entirely shocked, you chuckled at yourself for thinking life would give you an easy way out. After all, it never did. A little after 1AM, you made your way to your bed. You took one last look at your empty nightstand, then passed out.
“HAPPY BIRTHDAAAAAAY!!!”
Your entire body snapped in an upright position at the sudden auditory onslaught. Your face settled in a deep frown as you were trying to make sense of the scene in front of you. At the edge of your bed on all sides were people. Kiri, Lo’ak, Norm, Max and Spider. They all had big smiles on their faces, a big contrast to your own. You actively tried to remove the frown from your features, and found it easy enough when you realised these people, these people you loved were here, for you.
“Thanks guys. Anyway, could I get some privacy so I can put some clothes and thank you properly??”
With a grunt that definitely came from Lo’ak, they all left you to get ready for the day. When you appeared in the dining room, you found a big basket filled with incredible Pandoran food, and you were happy to see your favourites as the most prominent.
“Oh my GOD, Banana fruitsss!! How did you guys find these??”
“Lo’ak may or may not have spent an inordinate amount of hours waiting for a couple to drop out of the push fruit tree that grows a few clicks from the village.” Kiri said, laughing and poking Lo’ak sides with her fingers.
You felt a lump in your throat form at the admission. God, you were so grateful for this boy. You could live a thousand lives and still not deserve him. Feeling you getting emotional, he dropped to his knees and opened his arms. You made your way to him and hugged him, as tightly as you could. You were not great with words, but you put all of your unspoken thoughts in that hug. Your size difference made both of you snicker, and with one last tug, you let go.
“Thank you, guys. You are great, really, I couldn’t ask for better people to be around today.”
“Come on, let’s eat. We have big plans awaiting.”
“Sing!!”
You spent the morning eating and talking, Lo’ak complaining about the training and the ass kicking he got from his dad after your last meeting. You were laughing at his exaggerated manner of speaking, excited to finally have him around to get you out of your funk.
“You guys always want me to sing, you need to pay me if you’re gonna treat me like a jukebox, you know?”
You picked up the guitar that Norm brought for you out of the recreation room. You took it in your arms and strummed the chords, making sure they were tuned correctly. You thought long and hard about a song, and you found it eventually, buried in your brain, along with the memory of your mum singing it to you as a child with tears streaming down her face.
“… Did you ever hear about the girl who got frozen?
Time went on for everybody else, she won't know it
She's still 23 inside her fantasy
How it was supposed to be"
You felt the tears coming, but you willed them away. Your heart was strong, but it couldn’t contend with your mind. You continued, pouring all of your frustrations with Neteyam, with yourself, with this life in the song.
Time went on for everybody else, she won't know it
She's still 23 inside her fantasy
Did you hear about the girl who lives in delusion?
Break-ups happen every day, you don't have to lose it
She's still 23 inside her fantasy and you're sitting in front of me"
You looked across the room and felt weird, sick ecstasy at the faces of the people around you, all of which looked sad and glossy-eyed. You didn’t want to make anyone sad, but you loved the power that music held. You loved that it brought people together, no matter the species, the language, the tone, the mood, you could always rely on music to provide unison.
If our love died young, I can't bear witness, and it's been so long
But if you ever think you got it wrong, I'm right where you left me
As you played the last chord of the song, you looked up and froze at the sight of Neteyam sitting by the door of the room, an unreadable expression marking his features. You registered people talking in your direction, but couldn’t decipher the words as you lay there, on the ground, guitar in hand, staring at the beautiful boy who did not allow your eyes to leave his own. You swear you saw a flicker of sadness in his big, yellow eyes you used to know so well, but as you were trying to decipher them, Spider’s oh-so-human face flooded your line of sight.
“Hello!! Earth to Y/N”
“It’s concerning how many times this happens”, Lo’ak intercepts.
You finally focus on the people who have come here for you, and put the guitar down with a small laugh.
“Sorry, guess I got way too into the song.”
“Yeah, what the hell’s up with that? It’s your birthday, it’s supposed to be a celebration and you’re making us depressed, instead.” Spider says, frowning.
“Sorry!” You whine, hoping the childish tone would earn a quicker forgiveness.
They all somehow roll their eyes simultaneously, which you find amusing.
“Mum and dad say it’s time.” It takes a second for your brain to register the Na’vi sentence. The deep voice breaks through the chatter and everyone turns their heads towards the oldest Sully sibling.
“Right!” Lo’ak says, patting his knees and getting up suddenly. “Let’s go, let’s go, let’s go!’
You knew it was dumb, but you were nervous, too nervous, to make your way to the Home Tree after so much time. It’s been years since you have been there, maybe since you’ve been anywhere, and it scared you more than you wanted to admit to yourself, or to anyone around you. Nevertheless, you put on your mask and secured your oxygen cartridge behind your back.
You bid a swift goodbye to Norm and Max, who said they will try to make it to the celebration later in the evening. You then stepped outside, eyes finding it hard to adjust to the natural brightness of Pandora. You found the mask uncomfortable, having been so long since you needed it last, and took a deep breath in your attempt to calm down and take it one step at a time.
Lo’ak was, as always, Neteyam thought, leading the pack. Spider followed suit and you and Kiri maintained a steady pace behind the two boys. Neteyam was quietly walking behind you. He was deep in thought, not being able to shake the image of you playing guitar and singing that song he had never heard before. He hasn’t heard you sing in so long and hearing it again opened a hole in his chest that he thought was long closed. His eyes followed you closely, taking in all the details about you he hoped he wouldn’t notice. Your hair was lighter than he remembered, not by much, but enough that it was there, present for him to see. You were tall, taller than you used to be, and taller than most human women he’s seen. You were wearing a skirt, he thinks it’s called, that flows every time the wind touches it. It’s black and it looks soft, and Neteyam can’t help but want to feel it for himself. Your top is braided and beaded, and it seems like a mix between human clothes and Na’vi wear. You back is completely bare short of a string that ties the top together and the man feels his heart picking up pace at the sight. Cursing under his breath, he moves his gaze on a piece of jewellery adorning your arm. A intricate bracelet, green and red, definitely Na’vi make. He remembers briefly Kiri making it for one of your previous birthdays and smiles sadly at the thought. Finally, his eyes settle on a deep scar on the back on your left leg. Before he can help himself, the memories flood his being…
Neteyam found himself once again, waiting outside the big metal building for you to come out. He was excited for today, too excited to put into words. It always took convincing for you to come out, especially recently, but he loved that you said yes to him, and not to Lo’ak or Kiri, for once. He knew you have been sad for a while, and was happy to do anything in his power to help. He jumped out of his skin when the door opened, and you laughed at him for being what you called a “scaredy cat”.
“I’m happy to see you, Neteyam”, you said, in Na’vi. He smiled to himself at your accent, but loved how hard you tried to speak to him in his own tongue. “Not happy you’re dragging me out, but if it means spending some time with you, I guess I will let it slide” You continued in English.
“I think you will be happy to be out for this”, Neteyam interjected. You walked together in comfortable silence, only speaking when you found a plant or animal you didn’t know the name of.
“Oh my God, this is so pretty, what’s it called?” You ask, enthusiastically.
“A’o” Neteyam answers you, smiling softly, never getting bored of your incessant line of questioning. Like with the language, he was just happy you cared.
“What are you wearing?” Neteyam asks, unable to stop himself.
“Oh, this?” You say, looking down at your choice of attire. “It’s just an old T-shirt I found in one of the drawers of the living quarters. I’m not sure whose it is, but I assume a big old man’s, cause it’s more a dress than a t-shirt at this point.”
“A T-shirt…” Neteyam said, contemplatively. He looked at it closer and saw an image he couldn’t quite understand on it and the word “Metallica” written on it. He didn’t know what it meant, so he dropped it. At least he learnt a new word today.
You walked like this for over an hour, but eventually reached the end of a cliff, that overlooked a beautiful waterfall. Neteyam thought this sight alone will make you feel better, but he had bigger plans in mind.
“Wow, this is beautiful! This was almost worth the fresh hell I felt when that bug went in my nose like 20 minutes ago.”
Neteyam laughed, and he revelled in the way only you seemed to be able to make him feel like this. Free and alive.
Standing on the edge of the cliff, Neteyam let out a high pitched yell, then turned around to look at you with a mischievous gleam in his eyes. He smiled as he heard the trees on the other side of the cliff ruffle, and watched with pride as a big bundle of green, yellow, red and blue emerged from the foliage and landed in front of him. He turned to you and let out a big laugh when he saw your face, jaw dropped in horror and amazement, eyes wide with the glint of curiosity he’s come to love so much.
“You did it!! I’m so so so proud of you, Neteyam!” You screamed, running at him and launching yourself as high as you could, knowing he would catch you in his arms. “And at 13, too! This has to be some sort of record, right?”
“I doubt it, but it still felt good doing it. I was shocked Mum and Dad even let me try it. Anyway, I wanted you to meet her.”
He swung you in his arms with ease, not weighing a lot more than his baby sister, who was just around 3 years old. He finally placed you back on the ground with care, right in front of the Ikran. He made tsaheylu and waited patiently as you were building it up the courage to approach the mighty being that was lowly cooing and nudging its head against Neteyam’s. He felt his heart skip a beat at the sight of your beautiful face, and said a silent prayer, thanking Eywa for still being able to bring that expression to your otherwise crestfallen figure.
Once it seemed you became comfortable enough around her to pet, he clicked his tongue and motioned for you to get on. You let out an incredulous laugh and shook you head.
“No way in Hell, are you insane??”
“Come on, Y/N. I never pegged you for a coward.”
After this many years, he knew how to push you buttons. He saw your smile drop and your eyes take on that expression that almost frightened him. Thank the Great Mother you were human, cause you would be a force to behold as a Na’vi.
“Damn you, Neteyam.” You said, slowly getting up on the banshee and making yourself comfortable in front of the boy. He felt your back flushed against his bare chest, and suppressed a shudder that threatened his body.
“It will be fun, you will see. Here, hold on here, and don’t let go. I will have my arms around you at all times, and I promise to make her go slowly.” You refused to acknowledge him, and he found himself laughing, again.
Without any other words, he willed the ikran to take off. You let out an involuntary yelp, but otherwise you were brave and strong, just like he knew you to be. Once you were above the forest, he found you staring in awe beneath you, his gaze locked on the side of your face and on the smile that made him happy to be alive at the same time as you, just so he can experience it over and over. You flew like this for a long time, just taking in the beauty of this world that you both called home. A beauty that he knew you never got to experience, not the way you should have, not the way you deserved. He saw a tear escape your eyes and make its way down your cheeks and settle in between your lips, and cursed himself for not being able to take it away, the pain he knew clawed at you every waking moment since your mum died. You have never been the same since.
“Thank you for this, Neteyam.” You said, softly. “I wish there was a way to show this to her, a way to share this experience. I know she would have loved it as much as I do, maybe more.” You settled comfortably on his chest and sighed.
He didn’t get a chance to formulate a response, though, as a loud shriek came from his Ikran and he felt the panic overtake him as the tsaheylu made the feeling echo in between them. Looking up, he saw what no man wants to see: Toruk, his dad’s former pet, launching itself at the two teenagers and their ikran. Clearing his mind, Neteyam removed a hand from the reigns for balance and banked left abrubtly, diving straight for the trees, that were fortunately not too far below them. As if life suddenly stopped to a halt, he was able to experience the next harrowing moments in slow-motion - the diving, the terror of watching your frame slowly disappear from his line of sight, your voice screaming his name as you dropped towards the ground, his own voice getting caught in his throat trying to call for you, willing his Ikran to go faster than he thought was possible in an attempt to catch you, the pool of red liquid spilling from your frame as you impaled your leg on a broken Pxiut hitting the ground. He quickly removed himself from the Ikran and ran to you, picking you up in his arms, trying to ignore the way the blood was spilling down his torso and dripping on the ground. He looked at your unconscious body in his arms and felt the first crack in his heart form, a crack yet to be healed to this day. He pushed back the tears that were starting to pool and got back on the Ikran, flying as fast as he could through the foliage. As soon as he could see the outline of the metal building, he stopped the animal and got off, running with you in his arms. It’s all a blur afterwards. He remembers going home, your now-dried blood still marking his skin like a tattoo, he remembers crying in his mum’s arms, he remembers the guilt that poisoned his mind and heart and he remembers sitting on a cold floor next to what humans called an operating room, waiting to hear if the damage he has caused you will plague you for the rest of your life.
His eyes never left the scar on your leg, and, as he forced himself out of the torturous memory, couldn’t help noticing the slight limp with which you walked towards the village.
Crack.
Tag list :-): @mashiromochi
#neteyam#neteyam fanfic#neteyam fanfiction#neteyam x human!reader#neteyam x avatar!reader#avatar#avatar fanfic#avatar twow#atwow#atwow fanfic#avatar loak#loak#loak fanfiction
644 notes
·
View notes
Text
Iris Flowers
Ollie Bearman x fem!reader
From this request
Summary: You and Ollie had been dating since secondary school and everyone was envious of your perfect relationship. But not everything was as perfect as it seemed.You had a terminal illness, and even though Ollie was always with you, your body couldn't take it anymore. On your birthday, a year after you died, Ollie came to visit you.
WARNINGS:terminal illness,very angst, death,cemetery,not edited writing
A/n: I literally cried while writing,I hope you will like it
You and Ollie have been dating since secondary school. Everyone around you was talking about the perfect harmony and bond between you.Everyone wanted that "fabulous" relationship. Of course you weren't that happy behind the scenes.Since childhood you had a heart condition that got worse as you got older
You knew this disease had fatal consequences, Ollie knew too, but he was always trying to support you.He was trying not to let you quit, doing everything he could to discourage you if you tried to refuse a treatment.Of course, it was very difficult, especially from a young age, it was even more difficult to fight them.
And you were tired, in your heart and in your body, your pure heart that couldn't take any more stopped beating one day.It was so hard for Ollie to digest your death, not to mention getting used to it, the shock he felt when he got the news, his heart stopped when you died.Everything started to feel very difficult, it was very difficult to live and breathe for him
Of course, as the days progressed, Ollie had to move on with his life, and you'd want that too.But he never forgot you you were his soul mate you were his everything.For a while he was just devoted to his work and people around him were worried about him but it was all he could do to stop thinking about you.
But there was a special reason that Ollie was standing by the grave with iris flowers in his hand that day. It's been a year since you've been gone and today is your birthday.Ollie knew how much you loved Iris flowers, he left them on your grave and stared at the sky for a while to keep from crying."Happy birthday darling, I am here,I brought you your favorite flower, just like these flowers, I wanted to give you some comforting news."
Ollie tells you what he's been up to lately, he bluntly talked about how hard it was to get over you, he said he was trying to keep his promises to you.Tears filled his eyes as he spoke, and he was struggling not to cry.He missed you so much and it made his heart hurt.
"I don't want to lie to you Y/N, I feel like a piece of my soul has died.I tried, I really tried, but no matter how much I tried, it always seemed to make things worse I give myself to work but I know I worry people around me but it doesn't work without you" he sniffed "I wish you were here".
Then he thought of what you talked about before you died "Remember when you asked me to date someone else to replace you? I think I'm going to be single for my whole life"he chuckled to himself "There's not single soul that will ever replace you. I hope you know that, wherever you are"
"My beautiful angel thank you for...for all these beautiful years. I just wish I had more time to spend with you. Sorry I always far because of racing. I'm so.... sorry". He couldn't hold back any longer and started crying now he needed your hug more than ever.Then he felt a hand on his arm and looked over to see an old lady smiling slightly and handing him a napkin.
The old woman looked at the grave as Ollie thanked her and wiped his eyes."You seemed to love her so much. May I know who is she?"A soft smile formed on Ollie's face and he looked at your grave."I really do, she's my beloved" The old woman looked sadly at Ollie. "Sorry, it must be very hard for you" Ollie glanced briefly at the woman, then back at the grave. "It is. She was everything to me. I still feel like I'm just waiting for her to come back"
The woman rubbed Ollie's arm and slowly walked away. A white butterfly landed on your tombstone, causing Ollie to smile.He knew your soul was with him somewhere around here."My beautiful darling, every time I can come to you, no matter how hard it is, I will bring you these flowers. My sweet paradise, please don't suffer any more where you go, or I will never forgive myself for leaving you alone." he put his hand on the ground in your grave "I love you darling happy birthday again, i will come again soon" before walking away he took one last look at your grave and remembered you as you were holding the iris flowers in your hand because you always wanted to be remembered like that...
#violetszone#violetszonerequest#f2 fanfic#f2 imagine#f2 x reader#f2 angst#f2 social media au#formula 2#formula 2 imagine#formula 2 x reader#ollie bearman x reader#ollie bearman#ollie bearman angst#f2 fic#f2 one shot#f1 imagine#f1 blurb#f1 fluff#f1 angst
355 notes
·
View notes
Text
Now That Your Rose is in Bloom
happy day 2 of @sjmromanceweek everyone! Elucien won in my poll so I had to make sure to get to them <3 title from Seal's Kiss From A Rose for... obvious reasons haha.
it's been a long, long time since I've written Elucien so apologies in advance if this is ooc or what have you. but I hope y'all enjoy!!
Summary: Lucien buys Elain a bouquet of flowers for each year they've been together.
Word Count: 2,385
Read on AO3 here!
♡♡♡♡♡ Elain
Valentine’s Day dawned bright and early in the Archeron-Vanserra townhouse, and Elain groaned as the sound of Lucien’s alarm woke her up. She didn’t have to be up for at least another hour, but he had to be at work by eight instead of nine today, hence her sleep being interrupted.
“Happy Valentine’s Day, Munchkin,” Elain heard Lucien say. She mumbled something incoherent back and fell asleep to the sound of his low laughter, snuggling further into the pillows as he quietly got ready for work.
When she woke up again, Lucien was already gone for the day. Elain didn’t fully wake up until she was five minutes into her shower, and the only thing keeping her going was the promise she’d made to herself that coffee was coming soon. Once she was moisturized and her skincare routine was done, she put on a pink sweater to be festive. She loved big holidays like Valentine’s Day, but she was also a grad student. There was only so much energy she could spare, especially when she knew she’d need it for whatever Lucien had planned for today.
Elain and Lucien had been dating for just over five years now, and around their second year together, Lucien had come up with a little tradition for Valentine’s Day: one bouquet of flowers for every year they’d been together. It hadn’t been so bad in the early days of their relationship, but now that they lived together and were talking about spending the rest of their lives together, things had gotten a little… out of hand.
Lucien had never missed a birthday, anniversary, or Valentine’s Day, and he clearly wasn’t going to start now. There was a modest bouquet waiting for Elain when she walked downstairs to make herself some breakfast, a mix of pink, red, and white flowers brightening up their counter as they waited to be noticed.
Even though she’d known it was coming, that didn’t stop Elain from smiling as she read the little card waiting beside the vase. This one had a gnome on the front and said Valentine, there’s gnome-one like you!
She laughed as she opened the card to reveal Lucien’s familiar, prep-school handwriting. Happy Valentine’s Day, Elain, he’d written. I love you more than I can possibly explain. Yours, Lucien.
“Always the romantic,” Elain murmured fondly to herself. She gently placed the card back in its original spot and snapped a quick picture before opening up a new text to her boyfriend.
Elain Archeron, 7:57 AM
[Attachment: 1 Image] Stop trying to one-up me so early in the day, Lucien!
Lucien Vanserra, 7:58 AM
Why, is it working? ;-)
Elain snorted and put her phone away, focusing on getting through the rest of her morning routine instead of going back and forth with him. She had a quick breakfast, packed her lunch, and made it out the door on time for once. There thankfully wasn’t a lot of traffic for once, and she got lucky while looking for parking, so by the time she strolled into the biology building it was shaping up to be a wonderful day.
“Hey Elain,” Nuala, one of the other grad students in Elain’s program, greeted her as she walked into the graduate office. She and her twin were both students here, though Cerridwen hadn’t yet made an appearance yet. “There’s a delivery waiting for you at your desk.”
“Thanks,” Elain replied. She made a quick pit stop at the fridge to drop off her lunch before circling back to her desk, her jaw dropping at the bouquet waiting for her. “Oh my God.”
“Lucien strikes again?” Cerridwen asked from behind Elain, finally making her appearance this morning. She walked over to Elain’s desk and made appropriately impressed noises at the bouquet and accompanying card. “Wow. He’s really not playing around this year.”
“He’s ridiculous,” Elain answered. Judging from the sound of the twins’ chuckles, neither of them quite believed her. “He does this every year!”
“Trust me, we know,” Nuala responded with another laugh. “How do you think he gets them past security?”
“By batting his eyelashes and flirting with whoever’s at the front desk,” Elain fired back without missing a beat. “We’ve been together a long time. Trust me, I know all of his tricks.”
“No wonder he got so good at them,” Cerridwen teased. She winked at Elain before heading back over to her desk, her long, dark braids swinging behind her as she did. “Guess you two got in a lot of practice!”
Once Cerridwen left for her desk, Nuala wasn’t far behind. Elain let the sounds of the rest of the biology department trickling in fade into background noise as she reached for her second card of the day, this one with a picture of an orange cat on the front. The caption read, You had me at meow!
Elain flipped open the card to reveal another few lines of Lucien’s handwriting. You’re purrr-fect for me, Elain. Love, Lucien.
Elain Archeron, 9:13 AM
[Attachment: 1 Image] It’s barely 9 am!!!
Lucien Vanserra, 9:14 AM
What can I say? You’re all that I knead 😻
Elain shook her head fondly before she pulled up her schedule for today, looking forward to TAing classes and working on her own research. She responded to a few emails and set some reminders for herself before grabbing her backpack and heading upstairs for her first class of the day, and by the time she made it back downstairs to the grad office for lunch, there was yet another bouquet waiting for her at her desk.
“He’s really stepping it up this year,” Cerridwen said once Elain got back to her desk, already nodding with approval. Nuala wasn’t in the office, so it was just the two of them for now, a reversal of this morning when Elain had first arrived. “Two bouquets in one day? Sheesh.”
“You know he does one for every year we’ve been together,” Elain replied, smiling as she gently brushed her fingers across the pink and white peonies. “I have two bouquets to go before I’m done for the day.”
“You did tell me that.” Cerridwen sighed wistfully from her desk. “Does he have any sisters?”
“Unfortunately, no,” Elain answered. “He’s one of seven boys, if you can believe it.”
“Jesus. His poor mother.”
“You can say that again.”
They fell into comfortable silence after that, Cerridwen going back to whatever she was working on while Elain reached for the card. This one was science-themed and pulled a soft laugh out of her the second she read it; the front had a molecule on the front and said, We’ve got a strong bond!
Happy Valentine’s Day, (almost) Dr. Archeron, Lucien had written. We’ve got some awesome chemistry!
Elain pulled out her phone to take another picture and sent it to Lucien immediately.
Elain Archeron, 12:23 PM
[Attachment: 1 Image] I’m not a chemist, you dork
Lucien Vanserra, 12:25 PM
Doesn’t matter
You should change your name to Enzyme the way you make me react
Elain rolled her eyes, quickly taking another picture — this time, of herself looking annoyed — before sending it over to him. He’d made that joke every single time Elain reminded him that she was in a biology program, not a chemistry one, but it didn’t stop him from making it anyway.
Elain Archeron, 12:26 PM
[Attachment: 1 Image] Can you feel my disappointment.
Lucien Vanserra, 12:28 PM
I’d much rather feel something else 😈
Elain hoped no one had seen her choke on her leftover spaghetti and meatballs as she read her boyfriend’s text. Cheeks pink, she quickly texted him back while trying not to die getting her food to go down the right pipe.
Elain Archeron, 12:29 PM
Don’t start with me I have office hours at 1!! Let me enjoy my lunch in peace you scoundrel
Lucien Vanserra, 12:30 PM
That’s 30 minutes from now, Elain Don’t be like that
Elain Archeron, 12:30 PM
GOODBYE, Lucien
Lucien just sent back a series of laughing emojis, so Elain rolled her eyes and went back to finishing her lunch in relative peace. Once her break was over, it seemed like the rest of the day flew by, between meeting with a few students for office hours, working on a study guide to distribute to her sections, and grading some quizzes she’d meant to finish last week.
Elain startled as someone knocked on her desk, looking up to find Cerridwen fixing her with a look. “Elain, get out of here already.”
“I’m almost done, I promise,” Elain replied. A quick glance at the time showed it was already 4:30, and if she wanted to get home in time to bake Lucien something sweet, she knew she needed to get a move on. “I just have a few left—”
“Come on, you know Thesan won’t care,” Cerridwen insisted. Thesan was one of the professors they both worked with, and he was well known for his more relaxed vibe in the biology department. “Just finish them up tomorrow and come on already.”
“Okay, okay, fine,” Elain agreed, holding her hands up in surrender. “Twist my arm.”
Cerridwen waited for Elain to finish packing up her things, and then the two of them were off to the garage. With Cerridwen’s help, they managed to get the two bouquets to Elain’s car without dropping anything, which was a minor miracle as far as Elain was concerned. Once they got off the elevator onto Elain’s floor, Elain somehow got her keys out without jostling anything too badly, and she almost didn’t notice the bouquet of red roses already inside until Cerridwen made a surprised noise.
“Oh my God,” Elain said incredulously once she noticed there was somehow another bouquet inside her car. “That sneaky motherfucker!”
Cerridwen gently laid the bouquet she was holding down on the backseat while Elain went to investigate the roses in the passenger seat. “He’s smooth as hell, I’ll give him that.”
“He’s ridiculous is what he is,” Elain replied, laughing off her surprise. “How did he even know where I parked!”
“He probably drove around looking for your car,” Cerridwen suggested. “Now that’s a keeper.”
“That he is,” Elain agreed. There wasn’t a card to go with this one, so Elain shrugged and put the rest of her stuff in the backseat with the other two bouquets. “You want me to give you a ride to your car?”
“No, I’m okay,” Cerridwen responded. She waggled her eyebrows as she added, “I don’t want to interrupt however you’re going to thank him when you get home.”
“Goodbye, Cerridwen,” Elain told her, ignoring the way Cerridwen was laughing at her pink cheeks. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”
Cerridwen was still laughing as she turned and started walking back toward the elevator. “See you tomorrow, Elain. Enjoy your V-Day!”
Elain managed to make it home in one piece, and thankfully no other surprises were waiting for her when she got through the door. She had to make two trips to carry the ridiculous amount of flowers Lucien had gotten her inside, and since the stems had already been cut, she made quick work of finding vases to put them all in.
From there, she got started on dinner and dessert. Lucien may have been a sneaky wizard when it came to leaving her flowers, but Elain was a true mastermind when it came to the kitchen. She’d been planning this meal for at least two weeks, and it felt good to finally put her plans into action. She poured a lot of love into her Marry Me chicken — aptly named, if you asked her — but the real star of the show was the lava cakes she was making from scratch. She’d been secretly testing the recipe out and she prayed tonight wasn’t going to be the night things went wrong.
Of course it wasn’t. She was just that good.
By the time Elain looked up at the time, she realized Lucien was probably going to be home in the next couple of minutes, so she ran to the bathroom to quickly freshen up. She made it downstairs just in time to see the lock turning in the door, and even though she’d long since gotten used to the sight of her boyfriend coming home, it still sent a happy little shiver up her spine every time he came home to her.
“You’re absolutely ridiculous,” Elain called out the second Lucien got through the front door. Lucien was waiting for her with a final bouquet, the sheer amount of roses stuffed into this one making it a little difficult to see his handsome face over the tops of the flowers. “Lucien!”
“My love knows no bounds, Elain,” Lucien said back, setting the frankly ridiculous bouquet down on the coffee table so he could wrap her up in a warm embrace instead. “Mhmm, I missed you today. Happy Valentine’s Day.”
“Happy Valentine’s Day to you too,” she replied. Her voice was a little muffled from where her face was pressed against his chest, but neither of them minded. “How the hell did you get flowers into my car?”
“A gentleman never reveals his secrets,” he answered, pulling away so he could steal a kiss instead. He tasted like chocolate, and she hoped it was a sign he’d enjoy his dessert tonight. “But if you must know… I took the emergency key and drove around looking for where you parked.”
“Of course you did,” she responded, shaking her head fondly. She reached onto her toes and pressed a kiss to his cheek, savoring the way his eyes crinkled around the edges as she did. “Come on, Mr. Romantic. I made us dinner and dessert.”
“It smells amazing in here,” he told her. He was still holding onto her, one of his warm hands sliding under the hem of her sweater to touch the small of her back, and suddenly she wasn’t quite thinking about the same kind of dessert. “Can I send my compliments to the chef?”
Their food was a little cold by the time they made it to the table, but that was alright. Elain wouldn’t have it any other way, and neither would Lucien.
tag list: @perseusannabeth | @bookstantrash | @charming-butt-insane | @oversizedbats | @melphss | @sv0430 | @podemechamardek | @autumnbabylon | @live-the-fangirl-life | @julemmaes | @that-little-red-head | @jmoonjones | @sayosdreams | @thewayshedreamed | @hiimheresworld | @brieq | @pearlfortears | @swankii-art-teacher | @nerdperson524 | @snickerdoodlechittybangbang | @imsointobooks | @nesquik-arccheron | @sweet-pea1 | @champanheandluxxury | @dustjacketmusings | @mrs-shadowsinger04 | @unlikelypersonalknight1 | @goddess-aelin | @arinbelle | @talkfantasytome | @simpingfornestaarcheron | @duskandstarlight | @letstakethedawn | @vidalinav | @c-e-d-dreamer | @dealfea | @katekatpattywack | @burningsnowleopard | @thatsowlmazing | @avidromancereader | @a-little-disguised | @kale-theteaqueen | @talibunny30
#sjmromanceweek2024#acotar#acosf#elucien#elain archeron#lucien vanserra#moodymelanistwrites#elain x lucien#lucien x elain#pro elucien
66 notes
·
View notes
Text
DEFENDERS OF BERK | HTTYD SERIES | BREAKING DOWN HICCUP
Blog Post Series: Breaking Down Hiccup
Title: The Night and the Fury
Ep/Season: Episode 3, Season 2 (Defenders of Berk)
Premise:
Hiccup and gang set out on a training exercise on Dragon Island in hopes to train their stealth / combat skills without help from their dragons. Unfortunately, they run into a very, very unlikely "friend"...
IN ASTRID WE TRUST
It's no secret that the team needs some polishing. And we're hoping, Astrid's obstacles could do the trick. I love how they groaned, knowing that her tests is going to be difficult. It's very like them to do that and very like her to make things tough.
This exercise is fertile ground for individual members of the team to grow. For example:
(1) TUFFNUT TAKES ON THE RESPONSIBILITY OF WATCHING THE DRAGONS
(2) RUFFNUT GOES OUT ON HER OWN
(3) FISHLEGS, WELL, IT'S JUST ANOTHER DAY FOR HIM REALLY. I.E., DOING SOMETHING HE'S SCARED TO DO
(4) HICCUP, DEALING W DAGUR
(Can we also take a moment to appreciate the little confidence boost Hiccup gives to Fishlegs? We can? Ok. Here you go.)
If you started watching RTTE without first seeing ROB/DOB, you might wonder why Dagur calls him brother. Well, to be fair, I still don't know why he does, but at least from this episode, you'll know when the supposed familial relationship began.
P/S: Look at how small & cute baby is.
It's also really cute that Hiccup tries, for the most part, to keep the peace with Dagur, though for the most part, I hate to watch them pandering to him.
THE DAGUR FIASCO
This episode is where I feel DOB kicks off. Hiccup's in a very precarious position. The last time Dagur showed up, Stoick lied that Berk was still at war w dragons and that they still killed them. For the sake of peace, Hiccup didn't have much of a choice but to play along and reassert the lie.
This episode is definitely one of my favourites, especially in terms of the Hiccup-Dagur dialogue.
It's hard to not enjoy the "bro-mance" sequences. Just look at this one:
In fact, if you only watched RTTE, you might've missed where the Dagur v Snotlout situation also began. And it might surprise you to realise, that Snotlout was very much, a fan of Monsieur Deranged here.
HICCUP'S STAND
But nothing beats, that moment when Hiccup takes his stand.
It was such a DEFINING MOMENT, because Dagur has been looking down on Hiccup for years and NOW, NOW?! He realises what a genuine threat Hiccup could be. And more importantly, how easily his pride is wounded.
I'm all here for HEROIC HICCUP. And what an artistic way to show how much Dagur underestimated him. He even underestimate his shield! Much to his lost...
Also, don't you think that it is very Captain America of Hiccup sometimes, when he's wielding the shield?
And let's not forget, Hiccup is one sassy protagonist. I mean, you know you're an enemy when he burns you.
This episode is way more significant than I realised it at first. This whole time, Alvin was Berk's only viable threat. But his beef was with Stoick, initially at least.
But now, Dagur is another. And the person he's going after is Hiccup. Dagur is Hiccup's first archenemy.
And it doesn't help that he's insane.
So, what I loved about this episode was, it heightened the stakes of the entire show AND also, showcased how Hiccup can out-wit, out-smart and challenge Dagur, who I think, must've been a pretty tough contender to command the massive armada he ends up leading.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JAY BARUCHEL (9.4.2023)
I know this may come off super random, but it is Jay Baruchel's birthday today. I think we can all agree that Jay is the life and soul of Hiccup. If you follow me on twitter @reviewinghiccup, you should know that I am down the rabbit hole of Jay Baruchel movies, interviews and podcasts.
And what I love so much about this guy is the respect and reverence he has for the show. I mean, he constantly praises it and not just because of his role, which he believes pales in comparison to the artists designing and working the animation, but its obvious that he's a HTTYD superfan.
I love it when an actor pays their respects to the franchise and I do enjoy his take on the work and how much the line between who Hiccup is and who he is, as a person, is blurred.
He's an eloquent speaker and tries to produce, write and direct movies now, instead of act in them. He's based in Canada.
Anyways, something interesting I learned about him was, in an interview w Tom Power, he talks about the book he wrote and what being a fan means to him. Him being a fan of hockey and how precious it can be to live within a franchise or something as massive as indulging interests. It sorta validates me a little, specially since I've dived deep into HTTYD fandom since changing careers.
youtube
And just like Hiccup, there is way more to this guy than it seems. He's funny, humble, kind and generous with his time. He wears his heart on his sleeve, and he's pretty jittery in real life too. But what kind of broke me, was finding out that even with his own father, he felt like he wasn't the kind of son his dad wanted.
Apparently, he had a complicated relationship with his dad which I believe may have bled into his work.
If you've watched enough of his interviews you'll know that he's had to support his mom and sister at 14-years-old with acting gigs because his father left and passed away when Jay was 21 following a drug overdose. Yet, he still remains so kind. I mean, his upbringing was tough, poor and difficult, yet you can still see him trudging through humbly, not wanting to draw attention to himself as much as he can help it.
In an interview article I read this morning, he explained that he wanted to continue being a good husband, son, brother, friend and I thought that was such a genuine Hiccup thing to say. He shoulders all these responsibilities and have been since he was a kid. Look, I don't know the guy personally, but from the expansive notes and recordings I've looked into, he seems pretty decent and I am such a huge fan.
As I grow older, I understand people on a different level. I accord respect so differently from how I would've years ago. And right now, I think what makes Jay Baruchel interesting is his sheer promise to do better for his family. And I think, in the absence of chiefing, running a village and saving the world, Hiccup is very much the same in that aspect too. A chief protects his own, which seems to be the mantra ringing in my head as I listen to Jay talk about his life.
You guys have no idea how much I know about this dude. I have possibly stalked him silly right now. And am a little embarrass as I admit this. Anyways, all I want is for him to succeed, in his work, life and family.
#HTTYD#DOB#Defenders of Berk#Series Review#How to Train Your Dragon#Breaking Down Hiccup#Dagur the Deranged#captain america#chris evans#happy birthday#jay baruchel#she's out of my league#alice eve#Youtube#hiccup#hiccup haddock#hiccup horrendous haddock iii
203 notes
·
View notes
Note
What game 2 scenes are most excited to see brought to life in the show?
For me personally, the first scene I want is the prologue. It's so important to see Ellie already distancing herself from Joel and him trying his best to win her over again, showing her how much he cares with a song because he can't find the words.
Another scene, and a very important one, is the porch scene. I swear to god, if they make Ellie act all bratty towards Joel in that scene, I will lose it. In the original, Ellie is mad at him; she even calls him an asshole, but you can still see how much she hurts to hurt him this way. They've already made Ellie bratty in the show (more than necessary); I just hope they won't keep it up. But with what I know about game Ellie from Part 2, I worry they might make her a little more 'hostile' towards Joel in S2, no matter what scene. They've already done everything they could to foreshadow Ellie going on a killing spree in S2 by giving her a 'violent heart' (ugh, I still hate that). I'm just gonna hope they won't do that. Because it would fucking kill me to see Ellie be too mean to Joel in the show. I just see Pedro's curls and his sweet, sad face, and I can't...
Another scene that MUST HAPPEN is the SPACE SHUTTLE scene. Like, for real. If they don't include it (they have to, really; it's the number one favorite moment for ALL OF US) I might cry and never stop. One thing that is more beautiful about this scene than the moment itself is the fact we will be able to experience it again. My heart is happy just to think about it. This must happen. The whole birthday flashback must.
And of course (I don't want to sound like a masochist), but Joel's death scene is important too. That's going to be such a rollercoaster, and hearts will bleed because many of us won't be able to cope after that scene. Especially those who never played the game and had no idea that Joel died. It will hurt me immensely, but I need to see it on the screen. It's too big of a scene that should be done with respect. And it's needed to happen in the exact same way it happened in the game, because otherwise Ellie and Joel's conversation on the porch wouldn't give us what it's supposed to give us. It's in this scene where we realize that Joel died knowing Ellie was ready to forgive him (which we wouldn't know for the whole game play until the very end).
Who am I kidding, though? I need to see the weed den scene with Ellie and Dina too. If they are not gonna add it- now I'm just repeating myself. Well, give us the scene, okay? And when you're at it, make the make-out scene a little bit longer, k? Also, let's not forget the winter dance scene. I need to see the kiss. I need to see it.
They should also give us some scenes with Ellie and Tommy. In the game, we only saw them bonding when Tommy was teaching her long-distance shooting. But they will have a lot more opportunities in the show to give us Ellie and Tommy in many other scenes. At least I hope so.
Also, Ellie beating up Nora? Fuck me, that is going to be so wild. I am shaking just thinking about it. The scene where Ellie's mask breaks and Dina finds out she's really immune will be so awesome in the show too.
When it comes to Abby, I would love for them to maintain her bond with Lev because it was my favorite thing about Abby's part in the game. Lev is such a purely lovable character, I bet a lot of people will like him once he's on the screen.
#the last of us#tlou#ellie williams#ellie tlou#joel miller#joel tlou#ellie and joel#tommy miller#tommy tlou#ellie and tommy#tlou game#tlou hbo#pedro pascal#bella ramsey#tlou season 2#elliespuns answers
27 notes
·
View notes
Text
Oh Deer - Part Five
A/N: I’m back!!! I’m so sorry for the random hiatus, it was finals and my birthday and and and… anyway, I’m back to it now and am happy to be back to writing and posting!! Also HUGE thank you to everyone sending requests!!! I’m so excited to go to more of them and will be posting a few this week!! Again, just a big big thank you if you are reading this post at all!
Masterlist
I licked the blood off my claws, pleased with my conquest over one of my lookalikes of the woods. A fine dinner that doubled as an outlet for my pesky emotions that had taken over me tonight. Lilly, she had truly gotten to me tonight. It was one thing when I was the one toying with her affections, but for that little demon to play with mine? It simply pushed me to the edge. I hate letting another soul have this power over me, even more I hate how easily it comes to her. How all it takes is a blink of her eyes and I’m finding myself wondering what she is thinking. Especially tonight, I can feel the agitation creeping back just thinking about how she looked under the glow of the candlelight. She had smelled so sweet when we danced, cradled in my arms, it made me wonder if she would taste just as pure. I had been ready to demolish every soul in attendance at that party if it meant we could have the privacy I craved, ready to unfurl my frustrations onto her back in my room, ready to show her exactly what she did to me.
I caught my breath, swiftly cleaning myself and my dinner up. I steadied my mind. It was wise to send her away instead. I knew she would be safe back here at the hotel and it gave me the space that I desired to clear my head. My anger dissipated as I decided to check on her, no doubt curled up under her blanket or maybe at Husk’s bar if she had stirred.
Quietly, I melted into the shadows of my room and made my way to hers. The lights were off, it was all shadows, but upon inspection it appeared not only was her bed empty but it had not been slept in. I frowned. Maybe she had gone straight to the bar for comfort or something, she seemed to have an affinity for keeping a drink in her hand anyway. I slipped downstairs to the lobby and could see it was only Husk at his stand. That was not what I was hoping for, I stepped out of the shadows and placed a grin on my face, asking if he had seen Lilly tonight. The cattish demon gave me a sideways look, he suspected something was afoot, but wouldn’t dare press, and informed me that he had not.
That agitation grew within me again, I found myself searching the entire hotel for any sign of her. The kitchen? Angel’s room? The library? The study? The roof? Nothing, not even her scent. My anger bubbled inside of me at the realization, baring my teeth, I ran a clawed hand through my hair.
She was gone.
•
A giggle escaped my lips even as I held my glass in front of my face in order to hide my smile, I couldn’t help myself. I had found myself in a group with one of the overlords Alastor had introduced me to earlier in the night, Rosie. She had linked arms with me when she spotted me stuck in a less than interesting conversation upon my rearrival and allowed me to join her little group. Now I stood with her, one of her cannibal friends, and three other surprisingly pleasant influential demons. Rosie was good company, I understood why Alastor enjoyed her so much. She may not be the most outright powerful overlord, but he certainly seemed to understand the power of a charismatic personality, which Rosie had.
“Oh! Lily sweetie, would you please let me introduce you to a dear friend of mine, I’ve just spotted her!” Rosie asked cheerfully, seemingly to glance across the crowd to someone I couldn’t quite see. It was hard to say no to a smile like hers.
“Of course Rosie, I’d be delighted.” I smiled softly and she relinked our arms, quickly excusing us from the group as she promised we wouldn’t be long.
We took only a few steps before she asked me “So, how did you shake Mr. Broody? I didn’t think you’d be able to!” It sounded like she had been wondering the whole time. I felt my face warm as I thought back to the scene in which I had left him. Or more so in which he had demanded my dismissal. I couldn’t tell her how it had happened, it was simply too much to get into.
I waved away the question with my glass still in my hand and drew on a playful smile. “Oh he said he had enough of the crowd then something about preparing his next broadcast. He had wanted me to come with him back to the hotel, but I insisted my night was not over just yet.” We continued forward and she hummed a response. I couldn’t tell where we were headed at this point, but she seemed confident.
“Al’s just trying to look out for you, he plays all big and scary, don’t tell him I told you this, but he’s a softie deep down!” She sang and giggled at her gossip. “He must think you’re something rather special though, he seemed wonderfully caught up with you. It would be nice to see him happy like that more.” The last sentence was more so to herself than to me, it brought a dull ache to my chest.
How could I tell her how wrong she was, how he could barely stand the sight of me, it would seem. I wanted to believe she was right, but clearly he had no real feelings for me based on tonight. The fact that he couldn’t even bring himself to look at me, despite his physical attraction to me, which he had admitted to, Alastor must hate me.
“I’m sure he is.” Is all I say, looking around I’m still not sure where we are headed, surely by now we would have reached whoever she saw? “Rosie, who were you going to introduce me to again?”
“Oh sweetie, that bunch are just all huge gossips I wanted us to have some sort of privacy. Thank you for indulging me! Please feel free to stop by Cannibal Town anytime you’d like, I’ll have some fresh fingers ready!” She smiled cheerfully and I believed she meant her invitation. With that the one delightful demon I had managed to meet tonight went to rejoin her friends and I knew I was back on my own.
My eyes swept the room and lit up at the sight of the one demon I wanted to talk to right now, Angel Dust. He was lounging on a couch with a few other sinners it looked like and Valentino to his right. I was not so bold as to invite myself to such a scene, but it was good to see his face and know he is nearby.
Instead I became acutely aware of the sound of a familiar pair of heeled boots clicking up to me.
“Good there you are bitch,” Velvette, always a charmer. She was wearing an admiringly beautiful purple and black floor length dress, it glimmered gently under the dim lighting. The halter top style was unusual for her, but it looked very nice tonight. I straightened my back as I pivoted to face her, what could she need right now? “The waiters are almost out of all of the good food, make sure more is made, and here-“ she snapped her fingers and my clipboard fell into my hands, a long list of minute details to be fixed already typed up for me. “Fucking fix this shit!” She barked and then waved me away. I wanted to huff and tell her I’m not here as an employee, but I was still under her roof.
Besides, it was a needed distraction. As I bounced between the kitchen and soothing bickering guests my mind would have no time to linger on Alastor, which I was grateful for.
Steadying myself I drew back on a smile and headed off to check in with the kitchen as my first task. I quickly flag down the grumpy head chef to see if there is anything he possibly needs in order to keep up with the demand.
I had gotten all the bars restocked, fresh food was just starting to pour out of the kitchen, all of the tables were still in perfect order, and as asked the band would play the Vees’ favorite songs for the rest of the night.
I was halfway through my list when I felt a hand on my arm. “Lilly! Babe, I've been looking for you for an hour!” It was Angel, he sounded as happy to see me as I was to see him. I tilted my head back to meet his eyes, smiling back to him. He frowned at my clipboard though, plucking it from my arms and glancing over it.
“Angel, c’mon I need that back Velvette asked me-“ I strained my arms up to reach for it, but the effort was futile.
“She’s got you doing lackey work tonight when you look like that? No way, none of this shit is even important, it’s just an excuse to boss you around!” Angel said glancing over the list, he was mostly right, of course I had knocked out all of the actual important things first, everything left was petty work. But it was my petty work to do. I rolled my eyes at him.
“Yes, she is my boss Angel, that’s what she does!” I said, putting a hand on my hip to accentuate my displeasure. Part of me agreed with him though, I wanted to keep myself busy, but not like this.
Angel flagged down a miscellaneous employee who quickly trotted over. The spider demon shot me a look that told me I was being ridiculous. His plan was clear to me and when the sinner approached I at least recognized them as not an idiot. Angel passed the worker my clipboard and I shot them a dry smile.
“The Vees need you to complete this list of tasks, Velvette asked me to make sure you were given it once the important things were taken care of, thank you!” I politely instructed and the demon simply nodded nervously and skittered away. I felt slightly bad, but not enough to call them back and to take care of it all myself. One act of selfishness, I think I’ve earned it. Angel grinned as he started to lead me forward in the ballroom.
“Perfect! Now, how did you ditch your admirer, anyway?” Angel teased, batting his eyelashes at me. That pit in my stomach returned and I felt my face fall for just a moment before I restored my smile. I wanted to confide in Angel, but not here, not now. I needed a full blown debrief session fitted with pajamas and ice cream and a corny movie playing in the background to fill the silence between my shaky sentences.
I settled for a half truth. “Please, you know that's not how it is. He was tired of the crowd and I wasn't, so my night has continued without him.” I said, I could tell Angel didn’t quite buy my explanation by the quirk of his eyebrow, but he didn’t press the issue.
“Alrighty then,” He mused, sparing me, “Do you know how to play black jack? We got a guy in the North Lounge setting up friendly games, nothin’ serious! I bet ‘cha you’ll like it!” he steered us in that direction, walking through a doorway not too far away to another room off on the main one. Luckily I am familiar, the rules were simple enough: You want to hit a sum of twenty one with your cards, with face cards all equalling ten and aces flexing to equal either eleven one one, whichever was better for your hand. You wanted to stay at or under twenty one, but also beat the dealer’s hand which you can’t see all of. Every turn you would ask for a ‘hit’, being another card or you would pass.
“I might have played a few times before, this sounds fun!” I smiled as we walked over to the playing table. A demon who had taken on the form of a sort of fox was the dealer, four other figures sat at the table and I watched as they each either asked for a hit or not. At the far end of the table from us a demon who resembled a well dressed calico cat grinned as he had beat the dealer that round. Another, who seamed to be a muscular hell hound with dark grey fur celebrated as well. The other two groaned and muttered their goodbye’s apparently having had enough.
“Me-ow handsome! Could you be a doll and deal us in this next round?” Angel flirted with the dealer, taking a seat next to me and propping his chin up with his palms as his elbows leaned on the table. He turned our way as he passed out the first round of cards, throwing a wink to me as he did.
“A lady like that can play as long as she’d like at my table.” He smirked, running a claw against his slicked back hair before refocusing on the game at hand. The dealer was admittedly handsome, and his outfit didn’t match the sets I had laid out earlier so he was a guest who simply enjoys playing if I had to guess. His white button up had the first two buttons popped open and his suit vest was a deep forest green, contrasting the deep orange hue of his hair.
Finally I looked down at my card, an eight, pretty good. Impossible to bust on my next hit, but after that it is more of a gamble. Flicking my eyes over to the other two patrons I saw one of the pervious victors groan as his sum exceeded twenty one after his first hit. The same happened to the second man. Then it was my turn. The dealer politely asked if I would hit or pass, from half lidded eyes.
“Hit, ah, please.” I added, it never hurt to be nice to your opponent, even when luck was involved.
A queen, sum eighteen.
I wouldn’t be able to ask for any other cards, the odds of drawing a three or less were absurdly low, I could only hope his cards totaled less.
My eyes drag over to Angel’s cards, sum fourteen, it was worth taking a card at that point. A seven point difference was enough of a gap to make it fairly possible and with a low sum like that he was more likely to lose if he didn’t hit anyway. When prompted the dealer gave him his third card, bust!
“Damn, sorry Angel.” I placed a hand on his shoulder but he wasn’t exactly heart broken over the game.
Angel smiled back at me, “You’ll just have to win for the four of us then!” He said and I nodded, a small promise to do my best though it was out of my control by now.
“Sooo, winning the game for your boyfriend then huh?” The dealer quipped, he was holding the stack of cards but had not drawn his own next card yet, keeping me in suspense. Both me and Angel laughed at the idea, we’re not exactly each other’s type after all. He clutched his stomach with laughter which only made me laugh more.
“Please, that’s sweet and she’s a hottie so I’d be lucky, but absolutely not!” Angel giggled, dramatically wiping a tear from his eye. I brushed a strand of hair from my face, calming my fit.
“Angel here is great company, but no, I’m just going to win for my friend tonight.” I stressed the word friend, the dealer had been obvious as to what he was getting at, it was a nice contrast in my evening.
“I see, my apologies sweetheart, I just figured no way a doll like you was here all alone.” He said coyly. I found myself leaning slightly forward across the table towards him. Out of the corner of my eye I could have sworn Angel was shooting me a little thumbs up.
“Sadly it would seem so, now please tell me Mr. Fox, how long will you hold our game in suspense? I’m dying to know which of us wins.” I was flirting back, my tone was soaked in it, but I didn’t mind. The demon didn’t reply, instead he simply revealed his own cards to me. A Seventeen. I had won. I had won!
Angel cheered for me and as I have a sarcastic mini bow and a round of thank yous to a made up audience
“Thank you, I could not have done it without all of you! Thank you so much!” I dramatically blew kisses to Angel, the dealer and the two other grumpy demons who did not seem to enjoy our antics.
Angel clapped along for me as the dealer demon collected our cards and began to shuffle, it looked like he was just about to speak when his ears flattened back and he diverted his eyes ever so slightly. I looked at Angel and our eyes met, both of us confused at the sudden demeanor shift and I hardly had time to notice the furthest catlike demon leaving. My confusion fizzled out as it was quickly replaced with understanding and the immense urge to shrink away as well when the sound of the familiarly chipper and overly characteristic voice filled the room.
I didn’t have to turn my head any further to see them. Vox was accompanied by a succubus demon, she was stunningly beautiful as they always were, blue skin and horns as she held onto his arm. His his other side was a taller slender sinner, an ashy grey tone, dressed in a very well made suit, he looked to take great pleasure in his appearance. The trio strode in and while Vox tried to hide it I noticed how his somehow sinister grin drew up even further at the sight of me. I felt far less confident without Alastor behind me, even though I hated the realization, his presence is what had given me confidence earlier.
Angel met my eyes as they slid back his way. While Vox didn’t own either of our souls there was an understanding that when another Vee is present you were to be respectful and perhaps slightly on edge. I hadn’t had the opportunity to brief him on my earlier interaction with Vox, nor had I confessed to my discussion with him and Valentino a couple of days ago, so to Angel it was only a slightly tense situation. For me, I knew I had to be walking on eggshells right now.
The dealer walked to the other end of the grand table where the trio made themselves comfortable. I was thankful that he was further away, perhaps I could just ignore his presence from five feet away.
Angel raised an eyebrow at me, as if to ask if I wanted to go. It would look like I’m running away from him if we left now and somehow that sounded even worse. I didn’t want to seem intimidated, like I was skittering out of his sight. I’d have to hold my ground. I gave him a tiny head shake ‘no’ and he obliged.
“Tell me,” Angel said, a little louder than necessary. “What’s it take to get some cards down here?” He teased, leaning on the table pseudo-flirtatiously. Mr. Fox didn’t look our way, in fact the only way I knew Angel had been heard at all was due to the flick of his tall ears in our direction. I pushed down my anxiety from his loud remark the best that I could. Drawing attention to us wasn’t exactly what I would have preferred. I busied my hands by pulling my hair over my right shoulder, turning my head to the left like a barrier between me and the TV giant across the room. Mostly pointless, but it gave me some semblance of defense.
“Angel, please.” I half whispered, he gave me an apologetic smile upon realizing my discomfort, but Mr. Fox did indeed begin to deal everyone in. It was obvious that I was no longer our dealer’s primary interest, I couldn’t blame him of course, but he still threw me a wink as he flipped my card in front of me. My focus shifted back to Angel at this point. I was stuck here, but at least I wasn’t alone. “What did you get?” I asked him peeking over his way.
Angel held up his card to me between two fingers, kicking his legs a bit. “A ten, what about you?” I glanced back at my own card, shrugging my shoulders. It wasn’t great, a five.
“Little bitty five, kinda whatever.” I would have to hit, but my next card would either make or break me. If I’m lucky I’ll get a second low card and then my third would be higher, but that’s a bit of a big ‘if’ the way my night has been.
From the corner of my eye I could see Vox swirling his martini as he seemed to charm his guests, they were enough to keep him preoccupied. For years, maybe even decades at this point, I avoided any real attention from the other two Vees. Of course as soon as I start to try to improve my life in one facet, it crashes in another. I get a stable living situation, a couple of friends, just for fate to keep me in line by sabotaging my work life. I guess it is hell after all.
Maybe it would be best to distance myself from Alastor more, it was the whole reason Vox had any interest in me in the first place. Maybe Al knew that and wanted to protect me in his own way, however, I’d find it easier to believe that he just likes seeing how he can twist me around at this point. I’m sure his sadistic nature lends him to enjoying seeing just how far he can push me away before I run back to him for more. Maybe it was a mix of both even.
“So,” Angel started, drawing me out of my own head, “how are we going to get that cutie’s attention back on you where it belongs? I’m thinkin’ if we get him to relax just a little bit more you’d have no problem scoring him!” He was an excellent wing man I must admit.
“My competition is steep, if Tall, Dark, and Blue isn’t enough distraction I’m afraid I don’t have much on one of Asmodeus’ girls.” I yielded propping my chin up on the palm of my hand . Angel rolled his eyes at me. We spoke a little quieter.
“Oh please babe, he’s just keeping the big man happy right now. Besides, what do you do when you want Al’s attention? I betcha it’ll work even better on him!” He flicked his eyes over to our subject at the end, a grand smile filling his face. I, on the other hand, felt my face burn at the mention.
“Please Angel! I don’t do anything to get-” I cleared my throat suddenly feeling mindful of my choice of words. Even in hushed tones I felt as though we were being listened to. “- Alastor’s attention. He hardly even gives it to me in the first place. Tonight was an anomaly that I don’t see being repeated.” Unfortunately. I thought to myself.
But in honesty I knew exactly how I had gotten his attention tonight. He is territorial and jealous and anyone could see that from a mile away. That real hard part for people is figuring out just what he is territorial of. It was easy to tease those aspects though, especially if I feigned naivety.
The problem was I didn’t know that about this demon, I hadn’t even gotten his name yet let alone figured out what made him tick. What I did know is that he might be a bit of a flirt based on our brief encounter, and he knows when to shut up and pay attention, a good trait to have.
I watched him across the table, maybe on a better day it would be easier to pick out these things, maybe if my thoughts didn’t keep trailing off back to Alastor’s room, the feeling of his arms holding me against him, the way he had been as close as possible to kissing my neck. This guy…he might have decent looks, but he doesn’t have what Alastor has. I sighed in defeat, earning a groan from Angel as he gently shook his head at me. His star pupil, failing miserably.
“Lils, what’s really got you all wrapped up?” He asked softly. I couldn’t tell him here, not with prying eyes and ears around. Maybe we should call it a night and head back to the hotel, maybe—
My thought was cut off by the loud decisive ringing of a phone—Angel’s—he immediately had that look of regret and exhaustion spread over his face. Valentino. Angel flashed me an apologetic smile as he got up from his seat to go answer and even when I couldn’t see him outside the doorway any more I could hear his anxious pacing not far away occasionally peppered with “Yes Val”. I could only imagine that he was being beckoned back to Valentino’s side, if so I think it truly might be time for me to go home and stay home this time. I gave it a shot at least, that’s a start, maybe at the next gala in 100 years I’ll try harder.
Angel walked back in, clearly trying hard not to look put off, but I knew it before he could even say it. “I’m sorry to leave mid game, but Val says he needs me back asap.” He took a breath and pulled a smile back on, “Says he’s got someone for me to become acquainted with who just showed up, I promise we will resume our conversation tomorrow no way you’re getting off that easily!” He giggled to himself as he started to turn away. “That’s my job!” That did draw a smile out of me at least.
“I’m only ever a call away, you know where to find me.” I told him softly and gave his hand a reassuring squeeze, but his mind was also elsewhere already.
“Thank you” his eyes flashed behind me and he gently lifted his chin up to motion. “Good luck.” His long legs were already carrying him out of the room by the time I followed his gaze to the dealer, he was finally headed back my way.
“Wow, was his hand that bad?” He quipped, running a hand through his hair, it made me giggle despite myself. I leaned forward on my elbows again into our banter. Maybe he doesn’t have what Al has, maybe he has something of his own.
As we chatted I was too distracted to notice the succubus that Vox had entered with leaving with the singular demon who had stayed upon their entry, even less so did I notice the well dressed demon on his way out a few minutes later. I should have, I should have noticed the lack of noise in the room, but I didn’t want to break out of our little bubble. I also should have noticed the eyes that had become trained on me, that the sound of boots walking my way weren't headed towards the door this time. I didn’t notice any of these things, or how the air suddenly hung stale in the air and was just a touch too cold for the amount of skin I had exposed.
It wasn’t until a heavy hand fell on my right shoulder did I notice anything was different in the room. Mr. Fox stopped talking immediately, straightening his back. He looked even more tense than when Vox had originally entered the room. I found myself tense as well, in fact I could have sworn I stopped breathing. I did not dare speak even if I wanted to scream when my admirer gave a curt nod to the overlord behind me and ducked out of the room. We were alone. Me and Vox, and white the note we had left on earlier in the night I was not excited for the expedited reunion. My mind raced as my heart pounded against my chest filling my ears with the sound of my own blood pumping through my veins.
Finally, he sighed.
“So you were able to ditch the guard dog?” Vox mused, his tone was flat, it was more just a statement.
A statement to point out how completely and utterly alone I was. I held my tongue, of course he was not expecting a reply from me so he continued.
“I’m glad you chose to stick around, well more so return to us, you and my old friend had scurried off at some point, but that means I won’t have to wait until morning to do-“ His almost casual grasp of my shoulder instantly tightened painfully so; he pulled me backwards out of my seat and onto the floor. “-This.” My shoulder connected with the stone flooring absorbing the brunt of my fall, causing a yelp of pain to escape my throat. Speaking still didn’t seem like the right choice, nor did any kind of running away or defense. I wasn’t going to out run Vox, or overpower him, I would need something else entirely if I wanted to escape his fury.
Still I attempted to gather myself on the floor, even an extra inch of space between us felt better. My breathing was labored as he approached my pitiful position. “I mean really one of our employees-“ he reached down to me, grabbing a handful of my hair and using it to yank my head up to look at him. “-coming in with my biggest rival! How the fuck do you think that looks?” His boot connected with my abdomen, a painful kick that knocked the air from my lungs. Still, he held me up in this half sitting position in front of him. I couldn’t stop myself, as soon as I got any air back in them I would spend it on useless pleadings. His face contorted to a disgusted frown as he stood before me. “And then-“ a second powerful blow to my stomach, elicited another desperate shriek out of me as I heaved. He did not seem to mind my screams, in fact he relished in them. “-when I give you a very gracious night I say, offer to stop embarrassing us what do you do? You.” Another kick “Say.” Another kick “No!” He releases my hair, not expecting it my head slammed against the flooring sending a sharp pain through my head. His foot connected as another blow to my abdomen sending me flying backwards until I slammed against the wall.
I feel dizzy as the aches and pains forming in my body spread and connect, I try to focus on getting more air as tears collect in my eyes from the pain.
“I’ll be better, I’m sorry—I’m so sorry, please Mr. Vox I—“ I sobbed, it was all I could do. There was no running, no hiding, no winning. I had made my bed and now I’ll have to lay in it. The overlord was not interested in anything I had to say. I could feel the blood dripping from where I had hit my head on the floor, my head was spinning, and honestly at the point passing out would have been merciful. Instead I feel his fingers intertwine with my hair again and he yanks me back up. I do not bother to lift my head to look, but he forced me to.
Vox has an unhinged look in his eyes, bearing his teeth at me like an animal ready to snap my neck. I couldn’t look away from his eyes though and slowly I felt a wave of calm wash over me. It drowned out the adrenaline my body was pumping through me to keep me alert, my senses felt dulled and either I couldn’t hear my own heavy breathing or I had finally gotten enough air. “You tell Al, this-“ he gestures to my over all appearance. “-this will keep happening every day because of him. And because you continue to embarrass me, and Velvette, by associating with him.” I felt compelled to nod to agree, somewhere in me I knew every muscle I had was begging me not to move so much, but I felt compelled. Vox released my hair sending my head back against the wall. As I looked at the ceiling I felt all the pains and aches pooling in my muscles and throughout me returning. I could hear him straighten his suit and his footsteps faded away from me.
I wanted to take stock of myself, to see how bad my injuries were, how much blood I’d lost, but I couldn’t bring myself to expend the energy. I let my eyes gently flutter between half open and closed as I sat propped up against the cool wall. That was my only solace, it was like an ice pack for me even if it was deeply uncomfortable. As I fade in and out of consciousness I thought about what I would possibly tell everyone back at the hotel, especially Alastor. Would he even care? Maybe just that it was Vox, not that I was hurt. At least that’s what I was telling myself.
Finally I could not keep my eyes open any longer, I let my mind find rest as I slip into unconsciousness, hopeful that rest is all I need, hopeful that someone will come across me at some point.
It felt like I was on a lifeboat floating alone in the deep ocean as waves pushed and pulled me in conflicting and nauseating patterns. It was hard to tell what was dreams and what was real, my mind was so foggy and when I opened my eyes all the way it felt like I was continuously falling down some infinite sinkhole so I preferred to keep them closed.
It felt like hours had passed, maybe they had. It made me feel that much more tired. Even when I was asleep I wasn’t resting. My dreams filled with what tonight could have been like if Alastor had not rejected me, if I had stayed home with him. How he would have run his hands through my hair afterwards, gently pulling out any tangles he ran into. How he could have held me against him as we drifted into sleep, his arms wrapped around me while I listened to the rhythm of his chest slowly rising and falling. My state made it feel so vivid, it was like I could actually feel his body heat and arms around me at one point.
At some point I realized I was in my bedroom. I don’t know how I get here or how long it had been since I was placed here. Maybe just maybe that meant it was all a dream. A ridiculous dream that never happened. I stayed home and went to bed like normal and never tried to do anything fun or risky or new and I never would ever again! But I was still dizzy and when I tried to sit up the poignant pain in my stomach told me I had absolutely not dreamt any part of last night’s events. My recollection of the night washes over me again and I let out a pitiful groan; I think I would like to stay here and never have to discuss the entire evening ever again and if it wouldn’t hurt so much I would like to grill up into a ball and never leave my bed again.
When I do get up I will have to face the consequences of my actions though, I’ll have to at least tell Angel everything, I’ll have to avoid Alastor, then I’ll have to go to work and take whatever abuse Vox and Velvette throw my way that day. God, Alastor. My chest ached like I’d had the air knocked out of my all over again at just the thought of him. I’m sure it was Angel who would have brought me home, he might have been discreet for my privacy. If so that means as far as anyone else in the hotel knows I had a lovely night out, good. I don’t want all the fuss if they know Vox attacked me and even though I have this nagging voice in the back of my head begging me to tell Alastor, the rest of my brain agrees that it wouldn’t change anything so why bother him with it.
A soft knock at my door draws my attention, I turn my head and smile softly when I see it’s Angel, I must have been right. He face lights up a bit seeing that I’m awake.
“You’re awake!” He leans his head back out of the door to speak to the hallway, “She’s awake!” Immediately I head husked voices excited chatter not too far away while Angel strides over to my side. “Damn toots you gave us, me, one hell of a scare with that shit!” He tells me, stealing and fluffing a pillow with one set of arms and then shaking pain medicine out of a bottle for me with the other. The rest of the hotel files in shortly after Angel, save one, and Charlie goes straight for the other side of my bed.
“Are you okay?! What happened? Was it someone we know? Are you okay? Do you need anything? How can I help?” She rapid fire asks, lifting my arms and seemingly checking for deadly injuries that will take a much longer time to self heal.
I smile at her. “I’m okay, really, just a bit of bed rest until I can repair and I’ll be good as new, my head already feels much better.” I tried to reassure her, but she didn’t seem as sure as I was.
“But, what happened after I left?” Angel asked frowning, sitting on the foot of my bed. I scanned my eyes across the room, Nifty had gotten distracted by a roach in the corner, but Husk and Vaggie did look rather somber as well. I tried to push myself up into a sitting position rather than laying down but it sent shocks of pain through my whole torso. Angel and Charlie each grabbed my arms to help comfortably move me up, my muscles strained, but I managed.
“Thank you.” I said softly and gave them each a reassuring smile. My hands fiddle with the blanket now in my lap and as I feel a bit better I finally remember to feel a bit embarrassed that I’m still wearing my dress from last night. “I promise it’s not a big deal, just…” I trailed off, I hadn’t had time to think of a convincing story. “A shitty party go-er pissed off that I play a better game of black hack than he did. To be fair he hadn’t tried flirting with the dealer.” I say and try to laugh, but it comes out a pitiful wheeze instead leading to a coughing fit.
“No big deal? Lilly, look at you!” Angel raised his voice just a bit but stopped himself taking a breath. “You can’t even sit up, or laugh, you didn't even call me and I could have been there to help you! Instead Alastor of all people turned back up and found you passed out, bleeding, in that room all by yourself! And what, it was just some stranger?” His voice was filled with concern and I could tell he wanted a better explanation.
“Alastor? What was he doing there, no, he left, he wasn't there.” I furrowed my brow, that didn’t make sense, why would he come back? If he did, where is he right now? I felt my face flush as the picture of him walking up to the pathetic scene of me curled up in the ground bleeding and unconscious, embarrassing. Why would that be embarrassing? But I couldn’t shake that deep sense of anxiety and regret even if it didn’t make sense. I held the blanket tight in my hands, electing to studying the stitching of it rather than look at my company.
“I know he was looking for you,” Husk offered, hands buried in his pants pockets. “Didn’t say why, maybe you know better than me, checking the fancy shmancy party y’all went to seems like a pretty sensible place to start looking I guess.” That only made my heart pump faster, he specifically was looking for me? Why?
“I, uh I see.” I sputtered out, I look back up to see all eyes on me expectantly, as if I would explain why Alastor might have been looking for me given we had headed out all together. I didn’t have an answer that I wanted to give them though. “I think I’d like some more time to rest now, and probably change out of this dress.” I scrunch my nose up looking down at myself, it was not in the pristine condition I had hoped to keep it in. There were dirty footprints on it and faint signs of blood that had dropped down, at least those should wash out alright of the black fabric. Angel nodded gently, giving my hand a little squeeze as Vaggie began ushering the other residents out.
“You heard the lady! Let’s go, Pentious, account for your egg boys too please.” She prompted them motioning towards the door. The serpent scooped up his little creatures and a chorus of ‘let us know if you need us’ ‘we aren’t far’ ‘feel better!’ ‘Wait! There’s one more bug I need!’ trailed out with them. Angel didn’t move though, his eyes were too busy trying to read me. Charlie was the last at the door, she raised an eyebrow to me as if to ask if I wanted him to leave as well, but I shook my head no and she left us to debrief. I knew that’s what he was looking for. Angel had become quite good at knowing when I wasn’t saying my whole truth quite quickly. He didn’t say anything so I knew I would have to figure out where to start, particularly difficult with your whole body is screaming in pain.
“Last night was…a long night.” I said with a sign. It earned a sarcastic snort from him.
“You don’t say?” He said with a smile, I playfully pushed his shoulder, breaking into a smile myself.
“Listen, it’s a long story so get comfortable.” He grabbed a pillow that I wasn’t using and hugged it in his lap, fully sitting on my bed now, and nodded when he was ready. I replay the whole night for him, enjoying his commentary and short booing at Vox every time I bring him up the first few times. By the end though, he stops playing around when I confess that it was Vox who roughed me up, and his ongoing threat. Angel looked to be deep in thought when I finished, as if he was looking for my next steps or some great solution. I knew there wasn’t one. As we stood, I would just have to live with Vox’s abuse on top of Velvette’s at work now and my relationship with Alastor, well there want even really a relationship to have ruined. Still, why wasn’t he here right now? What had his attention instead? It was hard for me to understand his actions from the last twelve hours, you don’t care, but then you do, then you don’t again, finally you really do, but then you stop all together?
I groan aloud from my internal dialogue, throwing my head back follow immediately by a wince at the pain it caused. Angel took that as a cue to get out of his own head as well. “Well, work is fucked, but as far as Alastor goes, it’s looking promising.” He remarked, happy with his conclusion. I raised my eyebrow and felt my lips part, then frown, and repeat a few times as I struggled to find the train of thought to follow.
“Alastor looks promising?” How the hell did you come to that conclusion? From where I’m standing the demon can’t stand me and any part that can is being beaten down buy the rest!” I huffed, crossing my arms across my chest
“Sorry, maybe now isn’t the time for humor.” Angel admitted, offering me a hand. “Maybe you should get changed instead.” He was right. I desperately wanted out of this dress now, a shower wouldn’t hurt while we’re at it either.
“Thank you,” I told him, sincerely, taking his hand to help me swing my legs over the side of the bed and slowly transition my weight into my feet. If my body didn’t like sitting up, it utterly despised standing. There was nowhere else to pawn the brunt of the stress onto, forcing my muscles to work double time, but I forced myself to do it anyway. Step by agonizing step I made it to my dresser, which despite only being four feet away from my bed made my heart beat like I’d just run a marathon. “I can take it from here.” Angel didn’t look convinced. I couldn't blame him. He crossed his arms over his chest.
“Yeah, you’re the fucking opitome of health right now.” He said sarcastically, his other set of arms still holding onto me.
“Angel I can dress myself, I promise, you need rest too. It must be nearly four in the morning.” I said looking at his face closer, I was right, I could see the dark circles forming under his eyes. He was also still in his party clothes and his hair had seen better days. “Please.” I added with a half hearted smile. Angel sighed and relinquished his hold on my arm.
“Alright, be you yell or text me if you need anything!” He says over his shoulder while walking towards the door.
“Of course, goodnight!” I say and he echos goodnight back before leaving me alone. I ache and groan, but eventually do find a suitable pair of pajamas and outfit for work in a few hours. I push work out of my mind again though, instead hobbling over to my bathroom and taking a much needed shower. The hot water helps relax my tensed bruised muscles and alleviates some of the duller aches. I desperately needed the relief it provides.
It is only once I have gotten out, dressed, and am tucking myself into bed that I had a searing sensation that I am not alone. Maybe it’s nerves, but I suspect it could be the man I wish to avoid, lurking in the shadows somewhere. His idea of checking on me I guess. Normally I would want to poke the beast, tell the abyss that he should just come out and speak to me, but I didn’t want confrontation tonight. I wanted to get my well earned two hours of sleep before I had to be back at Vee tower and face the day. So instead I whispered out a goodnight to the shadows in my room and turned off the light finally allowing my tiredness to win.
Masterlist
tags: @cannibalcoyote @thereeallink @asainfrustration13 @lexx-exe
#hazbin hotel#hazbin hotel alastor#hazbin hotel fanfic#alastor x reader#alastor x oc#radio demon#slow burn#wrenposts#alastor fic#alastor fanfiction#oh deer#angst?
13 notes
·
View notes
Text
a birthday kiss
after a month of dates, it’s time for a birthday kiss
a/n: hi amores! I originally wrote midnight kiss as a fun little piece to start the year and there was the idea to write their first kiss for each holiday and what better way than to do it for harry’s birthday. hope you enjoy, friends 💜
word count: 2562
a midnight kiss
+
January is a month that Y/N feels she can never fully enjoy because one moment, it’s here, and the next, it’s gone. Although, this year, she seemed to keep track of every day because a new day meant new memories with Harry. After their midnight kiss, Harry walked her home, no longer wanting to be at a party where everyone was drowning themselves in alcohol because all they wanted was to extend their time together.
A few hours later, he returned to her door, inviting her for a late lunch. She’d be a fool to say no. Especially when he greeted her with a sweet kiss at the door. She was left craving more of Harry and more of his kisses. Days together turned into weeks; before she knew it, it had been a month together.
Harry thought boyfriend was the appropriate term to use for him when introducing her to their friends, and she found it really cheesy but knew he was right. It was too soon to call him “her person” because it had only been a month, but she felt like she’d known him for years. That there had never been a moment he wasn’t in her life.
“It’s the middle of the week, darling. Don’t want to spend it at a party.”
They’re spending the night in his apartment, coming home from a walk around the block. Y/N liked to remind him it was important to stay active each day, even if it was a short walk or working out at the gym. His birthday was tomorrow, and Y/N told Harry he had to attend the dinner party his friends were throwing for him.
Y/N sighs, “but Mitch said all your friends will be there.”
His birthday was his, and although he had a month to plan something out, he knew he only wanted to spend the day with Y/N. Kisses and cuddling sounded perfect to him.
“Mitch really wants you to show up. It’s just dinner,” Y/N tries again.
“Thought we were going to make an order of dumplings and eat them in my bed,” he grumbles.
“Your friends want to celebrate you. I can’t be selfish and keep you all to myself,” she explains, kissing his cheek. He melts against her, and she knows she’s close to surprising him.
“It’s my birthday,” he reminds her. Y/N sighs there is not getting through to him. “And if you promise to show up, then I’ll go.”
Y/N’s face lights up because, of course, she was planning on attending. She wanted to stick to Harry’s plans, but Mitch told her this dinner had been in the works since new years. Mitch shared that Harry goes all out for his friends, and this year they wanted to do something they knew he’d enjoy with his closest friend (Y/N now included).
“Pick me up from work, and we’ll go,” she promises him
Harry groans, “you’re working?”
Y/N sits back against his comfortable velvet green couch and laughs because he knew she is working. Her work schedule is written under his in purple ink. The color of her eyeshadow the night they shared their first kiss. Y/N, with time, had come to learn how sappy Harry could be, from having her favorite snacks stored in the pantry to buying lotion for when she came to stay the night with him. It was the little things that reminded her he cared.
“You know I am.”
“But it’s my birthday,” he pouts.
Y/N shakes her head, “you know my brother is trying to hire another receptionist, but even if he does, I’ll have to show her the ropes. I’m off at five, honey.”
Harry sighs, a red blush falling over his cheeks. It was damn endearing knowing that Y/N had that effect on him.
“Let’s go to bed.”
“It’s only ten,” Y/N laughs but follows behind him as he pulls her to his bedroom.
“The sooner I wake up, the sooner I’ll get a kiss from you.”
Y/N giggles. She can’t argue with that logic.
+
Harry glanced at the clock on his nightstand, the time staring back at him: 12:03 am. He looked down at Y/N cuddled close to him, blankets tangled all around her, her hair a mess looking like a perfect angel.
“Happy Birthday to me,” he whispered, wishing he would be lucky enough to share his future birthdays with her.
+
At seven am, Y/N was coaxed from Harry’s warm bed and dragged herself down to his kitchen to prepare her birthday boy a lovely breakfast. As she finished cutting up the strawberries, her phone rang, and she sees it her brother stating it was an emergency. She contemplated telling her brother someone else could help, desperate to be here, wanting to shower Harry with love and affection, but she knew her brother wouldn’t have called her if he didn’t need her.
“I’m on my way,” she assures her brother.
Y/N knew Harry’s alarm was set to ring in a few minutes. She knew he’d roll over and bring her close to his chest, but today he’d wake up to find her missing. She left him a messy note and his breakfast prepared on his side table. She would see him in a few hours.
Harry woke up on his birthday to the smell of coffee and Y/N’s special waffles but with no Y/N. He searched for her throughout his apartment, although he knew he wouldn’t find her. There was a note beside the tray holding his breakfast, a promise that she didn’t want to leave but would see him later because she owed him a birthday kiss. He knew she would be good on her promise.
His day was calm. He went down to the coffee shop Y/N loved and introduced him to. He was a fan of the lavender oat milk latte, maybe because he knew it was Y/N’s order, but he also loved it had that perfect balance of sweetness.
“Morning, H,” Sabira greets. “Do you want your usual?”
“Yes, please, oh and a scone,” he adds. He pulls out a twenty, ready to hand it over, but Sabira shakes her head.
“Already paid for.” She leaves no room for argument, and he knows who was up to this.
“Did she? When did Y/N come in?”
Sabira laughs, “yesterday. She’s a special one.”
Harry nods, thanking her because he got so lucky that Y/N chose to give him a chance. He’s counting down the hours until he reunites with her. He spends a few hours in the coffee shop reading a book he took from Y/N’s apartment because he saw how old and marked up it was, wanting to learn more about her through her favorite things.
+
Mitch had been bugging him if he was on his way for over an hour when he very well knew he wasn’t. Harry was on his way to see pick up his girlfriend, and if he took over an hour to get to a dinner he didn’t want to go to, then so be it.
Harry walks into the familiar tattoo shop and is instantly disappointed when he doesn’t find Y/N sitting behind the counter waiting for him. It’s eerily quiet, and Harry knows she must be in the back with her brother.
“Harry!” Gus greets coming out of his office with a client. Gus bids them goodbye telling them they are all set for next week before turning his attention back to Harry. “It’s good to see you, mate.”
“Hi Gus, you too. Where’s Y/N?”
Gus’ eyes widened in realization, “shit, I sent her on a bank run. It was urgent. I’ve needed her help all morning. I’m sure I’d be lost without her.”
You and me both, Harry thinks.
“Did she say when she was coming back?” Harry asks.
Gus shrugs. Not the most helpful bloke, but a nice guy. Harry decided calling her would make this all easier. Gus leaves him be, and on the second ring, Y/N picks up, blurting out apologies.
“H, so sorry. Gus was extra annoying today. Are you at the shop?”
“Mhmm…I miss you. Are you almost here?” Harry stepped out of the shop, hoping he could spot her.
She lets out a deep sigh. “Do you just want to meet at the restaurant?” Y/N hates thinking she’s ruining his day.
“Baby, are you sure? You said we’d arrive together,” he sighs, disappointed. All he wanted was to spend his day with her, and it was proving to be complicated.
When he woke up this morning, all he wished for was a birthday kiss.
“I’ll wait for you out front.” He stays silent. “Please, honey.”
Harry sighs, giving in. “I’ll be there soon.”
Y/N giggles, “Happy Birthday, honey. I’m sorry I wasn’t the first to say it.”
Before Harry can argue that it’s okay and not to worry, she hangs up. It makes him feel lucky to know she cares for him as much as he does for her. Although he thinks he likes her a bit more, he loves spending time with her and hearing all these different stories about her life. Harry knew he could spend the rest of his life with her and would never get tired of her.
The twenty-minute ride to the restaurant felt quick as he listened to Y/N’s favorite playlist. She loved finding playlists that were made for books she’s read. Harry liked getting to know a bit about the stories she was reading even if he wasn’t reading the book because he knew Y/N would end up telling him about her favorite parts and the juicy plot twists.
He quickly pulls into the parking lot and spots Y/N standing by the door. He hurries out, eager to greet her. She’s dressed in a pretty flowing dress. It has a slit up her leg and hugs her in all the right places. Y/N turns around, hearing his heavy steps, and he gasps, taking in the large bouquet of pink and white peonies in her hands. Harry feels his face heat up as she greets him with a mesmerizing smile, partially hiding behind the flowers.
“Happy birthday Harry,” she greets with a shining smile.
Harry giggles, shaking his head, bringing her in for a hug and breathing her in. “Y/N,” he laughs, unable to get over how sweet she looks holding flowers for him. “You didn’t have to get me anything.”
Y/N pulls back, “birthdays are special, or so you told me a couple weeks ago.”
That is true. This would be his best birthday because he got to spend it with Y/N.
“Let’s go on in.” Harry intertwines their hands, ready to lead them inside, but Y/N pulls his back. “What’s wrong?”
“Before we go in, I want to go over something with you,” Harry nods for you to go on. “I know you don’t want to celebrate with all your friends for some odd reason,” she teases before he can interrupt her. She keeps going. “I went inside and spoke with them. I’ve convinced them that you’ll go in and thank everyone. Let them sing you happy birthday, and I’ll drive us to your apartment.” Y/N looks at him with a timid smile.
Harry stares at her, surprised. “We aren’t staying?”
“Nope,” she grins, seeing that Harry’s dimples are beginning to pop out. She knows she made the right move. His friends had good intentions, but Harry wanted a quiet night in, never one to make a big deal out of the day he was born. “We won’t be longer than ten minutes. Mitch even promised to drop your car off at the apartment.”
“I’m so lucky,” he whispers as he leans in to press his lips against hers. He’s waited for this moment all day.
“H,” she breathes out. Her eyes trained on his lips before flicking up to meet his gaze. “Don’t you want your birthday kiss to be special?”
Harry tucks a loose piece of hair behind her ear and leaves a soft kiss on her nose. “You’re special, Y/N. So so special. You’re the best gift I could ever receive, and I’ll remind you every day you allow me to be at your side.”
The flowers are being squished between them, but neither seems to mind too lost in their own world. Y/N knows she has never felt like this with anyone. Being with Harry is all-consuming; the second he’s in a room, all her attention is directed toward him. She hangs on to his every word and doesn’t let a moment go by where she is not close to him, holding his hand, kissing his cheek, or a simple graze on his back. A sign that shows her he’s there and he’s hers.
“Think you’ll remember this kiss then?” Y/N asks as Harry is a breath away from closing the gap between them.
“I remember every kiss we’ve shared. From the kiss you gave me last night before drifting off to sleep to when you kissed me in the supermarket as you sent me to grab tomatoes, leaving my head spinning. To our very first kiss in someone’s backyard as the new year began.” Harry promised he’d cherish every moment with Y/N, and he has. She’s been a gift from the moment she entered his life over a year ago. Now he gets to remind her how special she is each day.
“Well, happy birthday, honey,” she whispers, and with that, Harry kisses her softly.
He doesn’t rush the kiss, instead allows his hands to settle on her waist while Y/N moves her hands to cup his cheeks, not wanting him to pull away (not that he would want to). Y/N takes like her strawberry Chapstick, one she has in every bag she owns, going as far as to leave a few in his car for emergencies. It’s a familiar taste and one he’ll never get sick of. Y/N sighs against his mouth, taking a moment to pull away. Before she can get far, Harry brings her back in. He’s careful not to take it too far, still mindful they are in a public place, their lips move in perfect sync. She was made for him.
“Aye, lovebirds,” they pull away, startled, making Harry turn Y/N away from the door but relaxes when he sees it’s only Mitch. “The candle’s melting onto the cake. Hurry it along,” Mitch grumbles.
Y/N buries her face against Harry’s chest, hating to be caught in such an intimate moment. Harry rolls his eyes before giving Y/N a kiss on the top of her head. “In and out, baby. Then we’ll go home and order food. Just me and you.”
She leans back, “I placed an order for us to go. Dumplings for dinner, H,” Y/N cheered.
As they make their way inside with her hand intertwined with his. Everyone begins to sing. Harry faces embarrassment because Y/N stares at him with the brightest smile, and he knows he would do anything to see her happy. Harry knows he’s falling in love.
#harry styles#harry styles one shot#harry styles story#harry styles x reader#harry x reader#harry fic rec#harry story#harry blurb#harry styles x y/n#harry styles au#harry styles fluff#harry fan fic#fanfiction#harry one shot#harrys house
288 notes
·
View notes