#and if i'm talking to someone who managed to buy their own home without parental aid then they're probably going to think i'm a lazy bum

[mastermatoyas]

I mean, I call myself a nepo baby because I live in a unit that my parents own (middle-class university-educated late boomers/early Gen X) (I do pay rent) (but significantly less than market rate). It kinda seems to have become shorthand for "person relying on their parents' money on some level to an extent that the average person their age would envy."

[letorip]

Can you do headcanons about meeting/first date with Jenna’s characters?

meetings & first dates

very funny to think about, i really did have quite good fun writing this one. thank you as always to the anon who requested, i was happy to oblige. also this isn’t what i originally planned to put out but casual [iii] should be out soon so maybe this’ll fill the void. i'm also on holiday at the moment, so that's why i'm posting at a weird hour (5 am) my ass had a plane to catch

i think i cooked on the lorraine one, would y'all want that one too

wednesday addams

you meet her in jericho, working behind the counter of the hardware store your parents own, when she stomps inside in her rain soaked boots and down a random aisle without a word at you

when she comes back with a shovel, some duct tape, a taser, and some rope, you have to awkwardly joke that it looks like she's trying to kill something

she doesn't laugh at your joke, instead staring right back at you, and you feel yourself gulp

that's your first interaction, and you don't see her again for a few days, until she comes back to buy a box of nails, and then a week later, a bucket, and a few days after that, a plunger

you won't know it until later, but she didn't actually need the nails or the bucket, she just needed an excuse to go back to the hardware store and buy some stuff so she could get up close to you

after four or five trips of her buying the most odd, random shit, she works up the courage to actually start talking to you a bit more. after a few more trips after that, you ask her what the stuff is all for, and she lets you in on the creature in the woods killing the locals, and that she claims to have seen it

for what it's worth, you believe her immediately, about rowan and the hyde and crackstone, and you listen to her theorise, leaning on the counter until someone else comes in and asks you where the plywood is, and you have to actually go do your job. wednesday stares down the intruder, trying to smite them with her eyes, but you always give her an apologetic smile before you leave

she tells you later when you're better friends and she's confessing, but she thinks of you as an odd comfort and home that she never realised she desired, and being in the hardware store and having you smile at her gave her a single fluttering of that warmth

eventually she brings you on her investigations and her cold, dead heart is running a million miles an hour the entire time, but you have to hide how close you are to wednesday from your father, because of his passionate dislike of outcasts

wednesday comes to your back window and chucks rocks at the glass to get your attention, romeo and juliet style, so that you can sneak out

when you actually ask her out, it's before you've even kissed, and wednesday wordlessly nods yes with her mouth hanging open, before she grabs the collar of your jacket and messily kisses you for the first time

your first date is to a movie, and to a horror movie, to be more specific. you take her to get food at a local diner that's open 24 hours, super late at night, and though she makes a remark about how these restaurants were unhealthy and an indicator of what's wrong with america, she thoroughly enjoys her waffle and you even manage to get her to wear one of those silly diner hates for a moment. she doesn't admit it, but she likes making you laugh

the movie is an incredibly rough experience. you despise horror movies, but wednesday is left smiling at the screen as a man is ripped to shreds in front of your eyes

that is until she realises your discomfort, and she realises you only did this because you knew she would like it. the realisation literally blows her mind, and she watches your face contort in disgust and fear, before gently reaching over and hastily grabbing your hand

she doesn't say another word, struggling to process the new emotions until you're both done with the movie and walking home. you're ranting about how gross it was and how you would be having nightmares for weeks because of it, and then she reaches up to the back of your neck and pulls you down into another fiery kiss, right as it starts to rain

tara carpenter

you've known tara for years, since you're also from woodsboro. you went to the same elementary school and she’s known of you for a long, long time since you chased her around the playground with a lizard in your hands

tara's always liked you, and you've both always had some attraction to each other and magical chemistry, but there's always been something to keep you apart

tara's involvement with amber and then chad, and then your own girlfriends, it was never the right time for you both to explore whatever electricity you could feel between you, so you didn't until you were both well into your year at blackmore

you only really get close until you take the same film class as tara. tara takes it because she's a film major and you take it because you need the credit and it's the only option of a class that takes place after 8 in the morning

you sit right next to each other and for the whole semester, you two slowly grow closer and closer, poking each other and whispering stuff while the professor prattles on

she's the de facto film buff of the group, only rivalled by mindy, and so you go to her whenever you're working on a project, because you're definitely the type to watch stupid shit, and not the high-brow film stuff the class requires

it means you end up hanging out a lot, at the library, at the coffee shop, on the couch of her apartment. you both set up the '1 for 1' rule, in which she gets to show you a movie for ever movie you get to show her

and she shows you really annoyingly good stuff, while you make her watch utter garbage. neither of you admit it, but you end up liking some of the high-brow art she pushes and she ends up having fun with the stupid movies you show her

when she makes you watch the babadook, you make her watch hot tub time machine, when she makes you watch citizen kane, you make her watch bridesmaids, and when she makes you watch la la land, you make her watch zoolander. it's a mutual exchange of interests, and you both lean against each other when you watch them on the couch or on her bed

paddington absolutely makes tara carpenter cry, there, i said it, and you show it to her and hug her when she does

things are genuinely just so easy and perfect with you, and it's so natural in a way that is unnatural for tara, but in a good way. you're unlike anyone she's ever been with, and it's refreshing and new in a way that's so exciting when you both kiss during the movie before sunrise

that's why it's so funny when your first date goes absolutely awfully

it rains on you, while you both walk to the restaurant and neither of you brought an umbrella because it wasn't projected to rain. then the sushi place you're bringing her to completely forgets your reservation and you're both waiting 30 minutes to get a table, and to top matters off, you end up being allergic to a fish you try for the first time, and need to get taken in hospital

you're not even choking really, just broken out into hives and feeling lightheaded, and tara's in the ambulance with you on the way there, and you're both talking casually, like "how was your day?"

you both get there and realise tara forgot her phone at the restaurant, and whereas anyone else would be pissed and call it a terrible date and give up, you both are fucking laughing your heads off at how cartoonishly awful the date went, even though it's a hospital, and that probably isn't the right place to be laughing in

when you're released super late that night, you both end up just wandering around new york until the late hours of the morning, just talking and occasionally holding hands. tara mentions that it reminds her of la la land, and you kiss, and what would've been a deal-breaking, awful date for anyone else just becomes something you shared with each other, and brings you even more in love

reminds me of the song ant pile by dominic fike

lorraine day

you meet lorraine as the kid of the new corn farmer in town, after your grandfather gets too old to be able to maintain his land by himself. your father has to come back and take over, due to his declining health, and you first see each other when lorraine and her daddy come to say hello and talk business for cow feed

she spots you in the back, leaning on the fence next to the field with your arms crossed and your hat pulled low, and you're just watching her and her dad talking to yours with a frown

she's set on edge by your presence, even though you're not really part of the conversation. she has to stop herself when she realises she keeps looking over at you every couple seconds, and you're still just staring at her and her father in a way that isn't exactly friendly

your dad is a generally nice guy, and he gives her your name in a passing mention and graciously accepts the pie lorraine's momma made to bring to the new partners, but it overall isn't a great first impression, and she decides right there in her daddy's truck on the ride home that she doesn't like you very much

when you're brought up again, it's by her father a week or so later. he's mentioning how helpful you are around your grandfather's farm over dinner, saying how your grandfather is blessed to have someone so good-hearted, and lorraine can’t help but remember the look of you glowering against the fence at them and doubt how true that is

she still doesn't like you, when you actually talk for the first time. RJ is bringing her home after an incredibly awkward date and gets a flat, and just as it starts to rain, guess who spots her and decides to pull over in their rusty ass pickup truck with a weird look on your face that lorraine can't help but assume is smugness

your truck bed is full of tools and supplies for your grandfather's farm and you haven't got a spare on you, but you know there's one in the shed on your farm. there's only one seat open in your truck, and even though lorraine heavily hints to RJ that she doesn't want to go, she's volunteered, as RJ doesn't want to leave his van on the side of the road, even though there's not many people who would touch the piece of junk

you snort when he insinuates that lorraine wouldn't be strong enough to fend off anyone who would take the van, and even though she's equally as miffed by RJ's assumption she's a bit annoyed by you defending her

the ride home is incredibly tense and neither of you say much until you're pulling into your yard and you say, "for the record, i highly doubt he'll be fending anyone off either." it's funny and it almost makes her laugh until she remembers she decided she didn't like you and she has to get serious again, and tells you not to talk about her boyfriend that way, and you don't say anything for the rest of the time you're helping her

she sits in the truck watching you from the wing mirror as you roll the spare out from your shed and then hoist it into the truck bed, looking sweaty and muscles tensing with effort. even though you're kind of annoying, you're tanned and you're fit, and it's something she can't help but notice whenever she goes to your farm in search of her father, who sometimes comes over to buy corn for his cattle

you both naturally start to grow into something resembling a friendship. you'll shoot the shit when you're not working, leaning on the handle of a shovel half in the ground, and lorraine will walk over and just kind of talk to you for a while. she doesn't even really realise the annoyance has melted away until it smacks her in the face that she was really wrong about you

your first date isn't actually a date until it's over. lorraine is at a lake day with her friends when one shows up with you in tow. she didn't even realise you had friends, but you're there with them and you look damn good in your swim suit, and you actually start talking a little bit about leaving the big city for your grandfather

you're all having fun, swimming around and talking, and she sees you're pretty funny when you want to be. it's kind of jarring to see just how wrong she was about you, and you both end up dancing around to your friend playing guitar and singing along

you end up being her ride home, and though there's still an underlying tension in the air, this time your truck is full of laughter and you're both actually talking. about halfway through, you accidentally let it slip that you asked your friend if lorraine was going to be there, and though the tips of your ears are red and you're apologising, lorraine can't help but reach right over and kiss you, and suddenly everything feels right in the world

cairo sweet

you meet her on the first day of creative writing, as the new student at your school, and mr. miller's seating chart places you directly next to her. she stares at you a bit, as if unimpressed by your existence, and you stare right back at her, equally as unimpressed

though you're new, you quickly skyrocket to incredible academic success, and cairo is enraged to find that with the transfer of credits, you're now really the valedictorian, sweeping it from underneath her feet at the very end of her senior year

with that, she absolutely despises you and everything you stand for

you have to trade papers for peer grading and while you calmly grade it at first, when you see that yours is covered in marks and cairo is being absolutely brutal beyond belief, nitpicking every little punctuation mark and symbol she can, you get a bit annoyed and start doing the exact same thing to her

it's a giant game of one-upping the other, and you guys repeatedly mess with each other like a chess match of fucking each other over. neither of you will admit you find the other annoyingly magnetic and captivating, you instead resort to messing with each other's standings

you both are duking it out over each little test grade, as cairo desperately tries to regain her spot at number one and you attempt to fend her off and keep your place. she'll brag about her perfect score on the calculus exam, and then you'll clap back with your extra credit. you absolutely dominate her in maths and sciences but she has you beat in creative writing and histories

winnie is greatly amused by the whole ordeal, and keeps insisting to cairo that you both should get it over with and fuck already but she scoffs and claims to resent the implication. doesn't mean she hasn't thought about it, though

her involvement with mr. miller is something she's only doing to maintain her spot as mr. miller's favourite student. cairo has the writing skill to back it up and is incredibly gifted with the pen, but you ooze a certain charisma that makes the teachers around you all giant fans, and she would be lying if she didn't say she was worried you would pull mr. miller's recommendation letter with it, and steal it right out from under her. it's entirely possible for a teacher to write more than one recommendation letter, she just wants the satisfaction of being the first one to get it

when you're partnered up on a group writing project that needs to be done in pairs, cairo sees it as the perfect opportunity to gather intel on you. another thing she hates is how mysterious you are, and how not many people actually know that much about you, other than how pleasant you are

she insists it has to happen at your house, and though you try to argue, she insists it has to be the case. it surprises her, when she puts your address into her phone and she sees it's a small one bedroom apartment in a bad part of town, without air conditioning and with terrible plumbing, and that your father works three jobs to support you

she doesn't know what she expected, but that's definitely not it, with your ability to dress and intelligence. suddenly her arch nemesis gains a third dimension, and she understands just how hard you work

though you're guarded at first, you both actually slowly discover that you don't exactly mind the other that much. you still want to keep your spot and she desperately wants it for her own, but you say something silly and it makes her laugh- really laugh- for what feels like the first time in a long time

you work together on the project more and more, and suddenly she's enjoying your company and wanting you around. she's definitely a little bit disgusted by that at first, but it's something she can't deny

she asks you on your first date to a poetry reading on a saturday, and you're a bit confused since the group project is already over, but you decide to go anyways and you have a great time. you say something profound after one of the poems, and cairo's eyes just drop to your lips in a weird amazement

she's dragging you to the bathroom immediately before the next poem can even start, and i don't think i have to say what happens next, but it's messy and there's lipstick everywhere

your father snorts when you get home that night, and there's dark red lipstick smudged all over your lips and a bit down your neck, and you roll your eyes at him with a smile

[csuitebitches]

What do you think about consumerism in relation to the "hypergamous" lifestyle?

Great question. I'm going to be honest with you. There’s no point in sharing my opinion, I’d rather share my observation.

there is this perception that you have to spend crazy $$, wear designer, go on expensive holidays, be a part of exclusive member-only clubs in order to bag a wealthy guy. The thinking is, “if I look the part, I will fit right in.”

let me break it to you. If you’re Asian, Middle Eastern - you come from a culture that basically defines marriage as something between two families and not individuals - you could live the above lifestyle, live way beyond your means but your chances of bagging a wealthy guy are low. If you do not have the family background or education level to support your lifestyle to be with a rich guy, it’s going to be very difficult, not impossible. You could bag someone who is upper middle class, but definitely not the 0.01%.

While it’s true that the rich do spend like crazy - you have to understand that (especially in Asians) the level of spending is completely different. They can book a first class emirates flight without caring about rates, they have access to concierge services, the circles are small but tight. It is extremely difficult to break into these if you don’t have the money or are extremely good friends with someone who is in this circle. To keep up with this circle is another financial headache.

The consumerism is crazy, it is high yes, but often it’s for things you might not expect. “Silent luxury”, investing in jewellery, properties, experiences, hobbies, drivers, PAs, 24/7 staff to take care of your home, having personal managers at the banks that have your accounts, seeing the top CEOs, politicians, actors etc as regular people - keeping up is not easy. Even if we look at normal stuff, like shopping for clothes - they’re able to blow this thousands of $ on a simple Hermes tea cup set, break it, and buy another one very nonchalantly. Not to mention the constant social gatherings, the clothes (god forbid you repeat), your life’s experiences etc etc. Women here don’t work to maintain their lifestyle, they work to enjoy what they are doing. Even if they stop working tomorrow, they will be financially taken care of by their families or husbands.

hypergamy here is completely different and obstructed. Let’s take my own example. I date boys that my family picks out for me - boys whose families own massive conglomerates, who are cultured and sophisticated, etc etc. I ended things with my last boyfriend because of multiple things, but what mattered most was that my father felt that he wouldn’t be able to provide for me the way I was used to all my life. (Even tho my ex came from a wealthy background too). At every social gathering that my parents organise or take me to, I’ve got my parents friends asking my parents if I’m single, if I’m interested in meetings their sons, etc etc. Dating and marrying hypergamously in Asian and Middle Eastern cultures is very much a family affair. There is a lot of talk that happens in these circles - who married who, whose kids are dating who, did you hear that A’s son fell in love with some middle class girl he met in college - not to your face, but behind your back.

What I’m trying to say is - you could look the part but still not bag the guy. You could dress nice, you could wear expensive perfume and make up but in the end, backgrounds are vetted extremely carefully. Especially in today’s day and age where looking the part has become easier than ever. So now when you tie this to consumerism, you can see why it can be difficult to keep up with this level of consumerism and spending. And even if you can - that may not guarantee anything. Unfortunately life isn’t like kdramas and some rich guy isn’t going to take pity on you and transform your life when he could just be with someone who has a similar upbringing which is more comfortable.

I’m not sure if I answered your question correctly, but I assumed that you were basically asking me if looking the part can get you any points in the hypergamy scene.

[manawari]

Our story.

tagging— @julyarya @i-bring-crack @winter-1023 (you guys gear up cuz this is hecking LONG)

He was six, and so was she.

Jin-woo held his mother's warm hand tightly as he pressed himself against her side. In front of him was a woman and a little girl around his age, with short blonde hair above her shoulders and fair skin, which was complimented by the light blue shirt she wore and a jean skirt.

"Go on, Hae-in," the woman said to her daughter. "Say hi."

The girl, Hae-in, stepped forward and tucked her hands behind her. She dipped her head a little to not meet his gaze. "H— hi."

Jin-woo felt his mother nudge him gently. "What should you say, Jin-woo?" Kyung-hye asked.

"Hello." He said to her.

She looked up, flashing him a bright smile, and giggled.

Hae-in lived two houses away from his. Jin-woo would catch her passing by with her parents, bouncing as she held both of her parents' hands, and her smile was as broad as the daylight. And in some occasions, he'd find her walking by herself, which made him curious to know where she was going. Jin-woo hardly left the house unless he wanted to go with his family, so seeing someone around his age walking outside brought wonders to him.

And it all had to take was his father to push him into going outside whenever Hae-in was walking across. Ill-hwang had figured his son must've been seeing her, yet never had the courage to talk to her.

It was a success. Jin-woo managed to approach her without tripping over his feet. Turned out, Hae-in was heading to the convenience store to buy some food since her parents were away due to work, so she had to rely on herself to get through the day until they were home.

Jin-woo was astounded. Hae-in, a six year old like him, buying her own food? Neither he nor his sister could even imagine if their mother had not left some food for them.

He ended up accompanying her.

"Why didn't your parents leave some food for you? In that way, you won't have to go out." Jin-woo told her as they went past the shelves.

"My mom said they are too busy to cook food. But they already taught me how to do chores." Hae-in replied and took a pack of ramen from the upper shelve on her toes. "What about you?"

"My dad works as a firefighter!" Jin-woo answered, albeit boastfully. He had always admired his father that he would proudly declare it if he was asked. "Although my mom stays at home, she sometimes go out for errands. She doesn't want to leave me and Jin-ah alone."

Hae-in chuckled. "Wow, I'm quite jealous! Mom focuses on her work because it's for my future. She knows how much I want to be an athlete one day."

"Athlete?"

"Yeah! The ones who run around very fast!" She said. "I want to be like them too."

Jin-woo chuckled and was about to reply when he noticed her grab another pack. He raised an eyebrow. "You are going to get two of those?"

"Yes, because the other one is for you," said Hae-in. "I hope you like seafood since that is the least I can do for you coming with me!"

He walked with her to her house and took off his shoes. Everything was too quiet for his own good, considering how Hae-in must've been spending days all by herself; he felt his heart squeeze at the thought — if he had approached her on those days where he found her walking alone, perhaps she wouldn't be as lonely as she was now. The entire house was clean, he wondered if Hae-in always maintained cleanliness or she hardly touched any corner, and Jin-woo had settled on the floor next to the table in front of the couch.

Meanwhile, Hae-in stood on a chair as she placed the pot and turned on the stove to let the water boil. She tore the two packs of seafood noodles and poured them into the heating water, stirring them with two metal chopsticks to soften the noddles. There were three containers stacked next to her in the counter, which must be containing other ingredients. So, Jin-woo got up and made his way toward her.

"Can I help?" He asked.

Hae-in turned over her shoulder and shook her head. "No. You are a guest here, so you must wait. I can handle this just fine!"

"Then, mind if I help wash the dishes with you?" Even though he didn't know how, Jin-woo thought he should start learning a thing or two. He was certain it would make his mother proud.

"Okay." Hae-in nodded with a smile.

They ate afterward. Hae-in had added several chopped shrimps and vegetables, her mother had cut them into small pieces fortunately, so all she did was to put them onto the food. And as promised, Jin-woo helped her clean the dishes as they both stood on top of their chairs, although all he did was rinse since Hae-in knew how to scrub the soap on the utensils.

"Thanks for everything, Jin-woo!" She said to him as she walked with him to the door.

I didn't even do a lot. Jin-woo thought to himself, then he looked around the house. "When are your parents coming home?"

"They'll be home by five."

Hae-in still had a few hours left of being alone. . . Part of Jin-woo wished he could stay longer, but he knew his parents would probably be worried if he chose to spent the rest of the afternoon with Hae-in. After all, his dad only told him to go talk to her and hang out for a bit.

Suddenly, an idea sparked in his head.

At dinner, the whole Sung family was gathered in the table where they indulged in the meal Kyung-hye had prepared. Jin-woo sat across his mother, who was helping Jin-ah with her food, and glanced at his father, who was fondly watching the two as he drew his spoon to his mouth. The oldest child, however, had left his food untouched as thoughts whirled in his mind.

"Can I play with Hae-in tomorrow?" Jin-woo asked.

All eyes were drawn to him in an instant. Kyung-hye let out a smile. "Of course. Her mother had told me she and her husband are busy at work that Hae-in was all by herself at home."

"Then. . . Are we going to have leftovers after this?"

"What are you going to do, son?" Ill-hwang asked him.

Jin-woo just smiled in return.

The next day, he went to Hae-in's house with a bag that carried two tupperwares he had asked his mother to help him prepare. He marched up on the stairs and knocked on the door, he took a step backward to wait for the door to open, but it wasn't long until it was opened by none other than Hae-in. She had her short hair into a ponytail and wore a shirt and a pair of pajamas while she held a broom; sweat beaded on her forehead and some had streamed down her cheeks.

He helped her clean the house.

By lunch, they shared the leftover Jin-woo had brought along. In that way, Hae-in wouldn't have to rush out to buy food. They watched movies in the TV after they had cleaned the dishes and chattered — they both realized how talkative they could get unlike the first time their mothers had introduced them to each other. Jin-woo would talk about the show he had been obsessed about, which was a show filled with shadow monsters and the armored general they went battles with, and Hae-in would just listen in intrigue.

Usually, he would feel bad for talking too much, but looking at Hae-in, Jin-woo felt carefree.

They would play outside of the house if they had gone bored being cooped under the roof. And in some days, Jin-woo would bring his sister along to meet Hae-in, and surprisingly, little Jin-ah was instantly fond of her. Being the only child, Hae-in had witnessed what was it like to have a sibling in shows, but after meeting Jin-ah, it felt like the idea had come to reality — the younger girl was more energetic than her brother and Hae-in wouldn't mind her company.

After a few weeks of being alone in the house until weekends, there was no doubt that Hae-in had been feeling lonely and only watched other kids from the window, not mustering the courage to ask them if she could join. But it wasn't until Jin-woo came and went along with her to the convenience store. Hae-in felt a gradual change since she began to hang out with the boy within her neighborhood; like her, he hardly left the house.

Hae-in soon had begun to spend more time in the Sung residence whenever her parents were out after Kyung-hye and Ill-Hwang expressed how welcome she was in their home. They had become a second family to her. They filled the missing gaps in her soul that she didn't realize they were there.

And, of course. . . There was Jin-woo. The two had gotten closer that nobody would think there was a way they could be separated. Even the entire neighborhood couldn't imagine them playing with other kids when they were much lively around each other.

Jin-woo didn't like to run for a long time as it always exhausted him. Hae-in liked to run, which was why she taught herself how to stretch. Jin-woo was good in maths. Hae-in was good in English. Jin-woo was not easily scared. Hae-in would flinch at a sudden sound. Jin-woo liked to play games in the internet cafe. Hae-in preferred to play in her phone.

These were the difference between them as their friendship extended throughout their growths. However, they didn't go to the same school since Hae-in studied in a private school while Jin-woo studied in public, the same school as his sister, but they would always hang out once they were home or their parents allowed them to help each other on homework.

It was quite tough for Jin-woo when his closest friend was in another school. His friends all lived in a different neighborhood than him, so he was left to go home by himself once they were done playing. Jin-ah had gone home two hours before him.

I'm starving. His stomach grumbled. Lucky for him, he was passing by a convenience store, and remembering he still got some allowance saved, Jin-woo decided to head inside.

Only to feel like someone had grabbed him by his backpack.

"Oh, look! It's Mr. Brilliant!" One of his classmates— er, bullies— smirked. These were the people Jin-woo tend to avoid, yet failed because they had been targeting him right from the start where the teacher had announced he got the highest test score in class.

They never stopped taunting him.

"Let me go!" Jin-woo glared as he pulled the kid's wrist off him.

Then, another kid placed an arm on his shoulder. The bully snickered at him. "Looks like you are buying snacks! Mind if we tag along? Papa sure gives you a lot money."

"Those are my savings!" Jin-woo exclaimed and raised his foot, but someone grabbed his arm to keep him from making any more move. "Let go!"

"Like hell we will~"

"On one condition first! Haha!"

"What are you going to do? Run to your mama and papa?"

"HEY!"

All of the boys steered their heads and saw Hae-in, whose face was burning with ire. Her hands were clenched into fists against her sides. Then, she began to stalk toward them and suddenly, chills ran down Jin-woo's spine.

"Let Jin-woo go!" She scowled.

The three boys spared a look at one another and burst into laughter.

"HAHAHAHA!"

"Who is she? His little friend?"

"This is none of your business, so run off, squirrel." The boy smirked. Hae-in's glare grew sharper. However, he was unfazed. "I don't know where you came from, so just— ow!"

Hae-in kicked him in the back of his leg and quickly grabbed Jin-woo by his arm to drag him away.

"She took Sung!"

"They are getting away!"

Jin-woo managed to catch up on her pace as they dashed across the street, getting away from the bullies as possible. Hae-in kept a firm grip around his wrist. And even though they had gotten farther, their legs couldn't surrender and just kept on running as though an army of monsters were chasing them.

In the end, they found themselves at the ice cream shop.

With Jin-woo's rumbling stomach, mixed with exhaustion, and so was Hae-in, they decided to treat themselves something cold and sweet. Their favorite. But, even with his hunger being satisfied, Jin-woo felt a huge hole inside of him, thinking back to the way his best friend had stood up for him, he felt so vulnerable.

It wasn't the first time Hae-in had defended him against the ones who were picking up on him. She was fierce and brave. She was not afraid to face others despite how bad they were. Unlike him. . . With a futile body and only had his brain to get through anything instead of brawn.

"Are you okay, Jin-woo? You've been silent ever since we sat down." Hae-in said to him.

Jin-woo frowned. After swallowing the chocolate ice cream in his mouth, his set his spoon into his cup and faced his best friend. "You are always the one who protects me, Hae-in. I will never stand a chance against bullies. . . I want to be strong!" He said. "I want to be the one who protects you this time!"

"Jin-woo. . . " Hae-in released a chuckle. "Don't make it into a burden. I'm just doing what I do as your friend, right? Besides, you always help me out with my studies."

"But still," he pouted. "You've been standing up for me, so I want to do the same. I hate being weak."

"Who says you are weak?" Hae-in raised a brow. "Remember when you climbed a tree to get your sister's balloon? That's actually brave of you!"

Jin-woo rolled his eyes. "But I never done something for you. Maybe if I can get strong enough, I'll deal with bullies myself and then—"

"You talk too much." Hae-in cut him off and leaned forward to grab a spoonful of chocolate ice cream from his cup in one sweep.

"Hey! That's mine!"

She pulled out her spoon out of her mouth and smirked. "Not anymore!"

Jin-woo glared and leaned forward to do the same to her cup, but Hae-in dragged it away and poked her tongue at him.

. . . And just like that, all problems were forgotten, and what was left was two best friends making a fool out of each other while finishing their ice creams. It was almost as if nothing had changed between them right from the start. Hae-in would always be successful in cheering Jin-woo up, knowing which things to crack his face into a smile, and how to uplift his spirit.

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He was seventeen, and so was she.

The students walked out the campus, disintegrating into various groups as they headed to their own way. Jin-woo was walking with his small group of friends, he listened to them chatter and laugh about what happened in their classes, then they were thinking about eating tteokbokki before going home. They turned to him and asked if he was available.

Jin-woo opened his mouth to respond when he felt his phone vibrate against his pocket. It was Hae-in.

[ Hae-in (Pickaxe): the match is starting in a few minutes. Are you sure you are coming? ]

Pickaxe — the nickname he placed in her contact as the reminder of the weapon she used to win against him in the mobile game they had played.

"Shit!" Jin-woo couldn't help but curse. He promised her that he would come and watch the competition in the sport's festival of her school. He turned to his friends. "Sorry, guys, I had to go!"

"What? You can't bail us now, Sung!" Tae-woong whined.

"But I made a promise! Don't worry, I'll hang out with you guys next week."

"Next week is finals, dumbass."

Jin-woo sighed. "Maybe tomorrow— see you guys!"

With that, he sprinted across the street and held his hand up to the incoming bus to climb up into the vehicle in hasty steps. Meanwhile, his friends were left in shock. They knew Jin-woo was a man of word, so whatever promise he made, he must fulfill it even if it meant abandoning whatever responsibility he had. They were also aware of that pretty blondie whom he had been best friends with since he was a kid.

"He will never stop prioritizing his other friend, huh?" Tae-woong deadpanned.

Younggil shrugged his shoulders. "What can you say? Hyung talks about her a lot."

"Whatever. Let's move along and eat." Tae-woong intertwined his fingers on the back of his head and led the way. "I won't be surprised if I wake up the next day and they're dating each other."

One of his friends laughed. "You're just afraid that he will get a girlfriend before you!"

"Please, Jin-woo is an idiot when it comes to love," huffed Tae-woong. "I pity him with all my heart."

Jin-woo pushed through the crowd and squeezed against the people as much as he could until he reached the front where a couple of runners dashed past him. He quickly scanned the field, hoping to catch a glimpse of that passionate athlete among them. He got stuck in traffic, so he had no choice but to run all the way to the venue.

Finally, he saw her.

Hae-in, who had been jogging and exercising to maintain her athletic physique, was running ahead of her competitors. Her determination was strong on her face. Jin-woo began to cheer and shout for her even though he was not sure if she was going to hear it. Over the years, Hae-in had been first place, with a few second places, in all competitions she had participated, she had brought home medals that had become the diamonds in her parents' eyes.

Jin-woo had got into track and field in his school as well, yet never chose to be involved in competitions. He had only joined the sport since it gave additional grades for being a member of a club. And it also gave him a new habit to run with Hae-in during their weekend mornings. Hae-in helped him out and became his personal "coach".

He stood near the finishing line, therefore it gave him the clear opportunity to witness the winner. And as expected. . . Hae-in was the one who tore through the ribbon. The crowd went wild, but Jin-woo cheered for her name and waved his hand in the air to catch her attention. Hae-in met his gaze and her lips curved into a broad smile in the midst of her panting breaths.

Her smile had always been the brightest thing ever.

Hae-in was easier to smile than Jin-woo. She wouldn't hide her smile from anything that brought her joy. She was serious about the things she had put her heart into, namely her rising hall of fame in track and field, which was the reason why she always succeed. She never gave up.

[ Jin-woo (Shady Monarch): I'm at the entrance. ]

[ Hae-in (Pickaxe): okay! Wait for me there:) ]

Jin-woo stashed his phone into his pocket. People walked past him as they departed from the festival. He thought of treating her for a meal as a reward for the sweat she had poured herself into just to get to the finishing line. Then, he saw a bunch of girls heading to his direction.

"Hi~" the first one tucked her hair behind her ear. She giggled. "I've never seen you around. What are you doing here, handsome?"

"I'm waiting for someone." Jin-woo answered simply.

"Is that so? Well, the girls and I are wondering if you could join us. We are also meeting some boys as well, so—" the girl paused, noticing he was scrolling through his phone. "Uh, are you listening?"

No response.

"Don't leave us hanging! We can include your friend to our—"

"Jin-woo!"

Jin-woo raised his head and his eyes lit up and left his spot to make his way toward Hae-in, leaving the group of girls as though they did not exist. "Let's go?"

She nodded. "Yes, we should—"

"Oh, I didn't know the star athlete has a boyfriend," the girls walked up to the pair. Their eyes glinted in mischief. "Now I get why you are ignoring us."

Hae-in rolled her eyes. "He's not my boyfriend. He is my best friend."

"Really? In that case," a girl grabbed Jin-woo's arm. He widened his eyes at her. "He is single, right?"

Hae-in caught Jin-woo's helpless look. He was uncomfortable when someone he didn't know touched him so shamelessly. She sighed and stepped closer to the girl. "You should probably let him go. It's making him uneasy."

"She's right." Jin-woo pried the girl's hand off him. He cleared his throat to speak in a blunt tone. "And no, I will not go out with you."

His answer left the girl dropped her jaw in aghast and so did the rest of the group. Jin-woo and Hae-in took the chance to get away from them and left the campus by taking the bus. Right, growing up together meant helping each other out when one was in a terrible situation, and by terrible — having people ask them out on a date.

Jin-woo got to experience them the most. Sure enough, puberty had been too kind with him and blessed him with a fine physique and handsome features, which were enough to attract ladies. He made sure to stay away from them and not entertain them further since he was not into the topic of dating. He preferred to focus on graduating rather than be in a temporary relationship with someone.

Hae-in was the same. With her popularity in sports, male athletes had become enamored with her that Jin-woo heard her stories of guys pestering her. It always aggravated him to know how people kept breaking into her boundaries. He even punched a guy once when it happened right in front of him.

They both struggled and just covered it up with a joke. But, of course, there were times they got teased as lovers and had people, mostly Jin-woo's friends, ask them if they were in a relationship. The two would laugh it out and deny it since they were only best friends.

Jin-woo didn't think of Hae-in as anything else except she was the first and longest friendship he had ever had. And Hae-in shared the same sentiment. They knew each other better than anyone else and were most comfortable when around each other.

They would let their guard down around each other and become the safe place they needed.

. . . Especially when one of them were having the roughest time in life.

When Jin-woo had opened the door, he saw Hae-in, whose eyes were stained with tears and so did her cheeks. Before he could ask, she immediately rushed to his arms and buried her face against his shoulder, sobbing terribly. Jin-woo wrapped his arms around her and rubbed her back with his palm to try soothing her down, feeling his chest clench in pain at the state his best friend had gotten into.

"I need you, Jin-woo," Hae-in whispered and sobbed.

Jin-woo led her to the couch without letting her go from his arms. Jin-ah rubbed Hae-in's back while Kyung-hye placed a glass of water on the coffee table. Ill-hwang sat on the sofa and waited for the conversation, he could tell Hae-in must've ran from home since she couldn't handle the conflict under her roof.

"Hey? What happened?" Jin-woo gently asked her.

Hae-in swallowed and wiped her tears with the back of her hand. "M— my. . . My parents. They were fighting and decided to get a divorce."

"Oh, dear. . . I'm so sorry." Kyung-hye frowned. "I am sure none of it is your fault, so don't blame yourself."

"I'm trying not to." Hae-in murmured.

Jin-woo squeezed her arm. "Everything will be fine, Hae-in. It may take a long time, but I am always here. My family too."

She sniffled. "Thanks, Jin-woo."

"You can spend the night here, Hae-in, if you are not ready to go home." Ill-hwang suggested.

"Dad is right. You can't handle getting home in this state." Jin-woo agreed. "We can watch a movie with Jin-ah since we don't have school tomorrow."

"Yeah! I will make some snacks too." Jin-ah grinned.

Her brother flashed her a disapproving look. "Who says you can step into the kitchen already?"

Hae-in let out a chuckle and wiped her tears without moving away from Jin-woo's side. Kyung-hye decided that she would be the one in charge of the food to stop her two children from bickering and called Ill-hwang to assist her. It was the right decision for her to go to her best friend's house instead of lingering in hers, which was filled with angry shouts coming from both for her parents that reached to her bedroom.

Part of her wished she had a family as happy as Jin-woo's family. The kind of family where all problems would be solved without yelling. But— what would happen now? Could she handle spending her days with having only one parent?

Hae-in shook her head and saw the small smile in Jin-woo's face. It was as if he was telling her not to worry too much. She smiled back.

He was always there for her. . .

Like how she was there for him.

Hae-in was there when he injured himself. She was there when he was having a panic attack due to his mother being admitted to the hospital after fainting. She was there when he was having a hard time with school. She was there when he had lost confidence on himself. . .

They were inseparable and were there for each other in good and bad times.

But. . . How long could they be there for each other?

"Ah, Jin-woo! Are you looking for Hae-in?" The woman asked. "She's in her room."

"Thank you, Mrs. Cha." Jin-woo dipped his head in gratitude and made his way to the direction of her room.

The door was not locked, thankfully, so he first knocked on the door. "Hae-in? It's me. I got your message."

No response.

So, Jin-woo twisted the knob and pushed the door open. Her room had always been clean, as if nobody was occupying it, but it was empty — she wasn't here. The window was open though. Jin-woo made his way toward it and peered his head to the outside and looked up. There she was.

He climbed up and walked across the roof and sat down beside her. The wind was chilly, so it was fortunate that he wore his black hoodie, and the night sky was incredibly vast above them. He turned to Hae-in, who wore an oversized brown sweater over her blue long-sleeved shirt and a pair of white sweatpants.

She caught his eyes and her lips tugged into a smile. "Watch the stars with me? They're beautiful tonight."

Jin-woo flickered his gaze to the sky, specked with countless of stars. He smiled softly. "They are."

"I wish I can stay like this forever, you know? Looking at the stars without thinking about a single problem. . . Everything is so at peace." Hae-in inhaled the gentle, cold air. "Don't you think the same thing, Jin-woo?"

He nodded. "You are right. The night has always been beautiful."

"I probably won't see anything like this. . . " Hae-in murmured. "Because I will be leaving the country."

Jin-woo had never turned his head so fast that he could snap his own neck. "You— what?"

"I am." Hae-in nodded without looking at him. She tucked her knees close to her chest. "A week after my parents were officially separated, my mom met someone from America and decided to move there."

"But we still haven't graduated from school. . . "

"Exactly. But my mom already had everything prepared. I will be spending my college years there too." After a sigh, Hae-in looked at him and smiled, her eyes beginning to glimmer like the stars. "You'll miss me, won't you?"

Jin-woo held back his tears. "Of— of course! What kind of best friend am I if I am not going to miss you?"

"Good to know." Hae-in chuckled. "Do you. . . Do you think everything will change between us, Jin-woo? I'm— I'm scared. What if there will be a day where we—"

"Hey! Nothing is going to change between us. I will still be the Jin-woo you know." He told her. "And you are still the Hae-in I know. Distance means nothing, alright?"

A single tear slid down her cheek. "I don't wanna go."

Me neither. Jin-woo wished he could say the words in his mind right now, but he knew they wouldn't be helpful in the situation. He would only bring Hae-in's spirit down. She needed to do this. She must go with the only family she had left.

He wrapped her into his arms. Even if this might be their last moment, Jin-woo wanted to hold his best friend, protect her from everything, for the last time. He couldn't imagine what his days would be — void of the person who had been in his life ever since he was a kid. They grew up together. They spent so many memories together that they were still not enough.

Hae-in's embrace was firm and strong, almost enough to crush someone. But Jin-woo was used to it. When Hae-in hugs, she was hugging with all her heart, and all words that were left unspoken were there. In their situation, she didn't want to let go, and neither did Jin-woo, she wanted to live her life with the ones she dearly loved close.

"Can you keep a promise?" She murmured. "A promise that you'll come meet me once I return?"

"Of course," he said within a heartbeat, "I promise that I will definitely meet you again."

Two best friends, made a promise under hundreds of stars. That no matter how long their distance was going to be, they would always meet each other, never let their memories together be buried.

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Communication with someone who was thousands of miles away was hard. They tried to reach out to each other as much as they could. But the lines could not meet. It was painful that at one point. . . They just stopped trying. They let their chances dwindle into the air like ashes and could only grasp onto the promise they had made to each other.

Several years marched on, they lived their lives without the knowledge of what the other was doing.

Jin-woo had turned twenty-five.

. . . And so did Hae-in.

After years of living in America, Hae-in was finally given the opportunity to fly to South Korea, her true home. Antares, her stepfather, had already prepared a car that would be awaiting for her arrival in the airport to bring her to the hotel he had accommodated for her.

Her new life wasn't as bad as she thought. Antares was a rich businessman whom her mother had been working for and had been in love with each other. But the thought of their love story made Hae-in's stomach clench in disgust, realizing how easily her mother had given in to the divorce because she was already in love with someone else, so she chose not to think about it and respected Antares as her stepfather.

Antares was actually gentle toward her, unlike in his job where he was strict and known for having a burning temper, though he had never done anything wrong or even laid a hand, so it was difficult for Hae-in to dislike him. He helped her and supported her throughout their years together.

"Are you settled in your room now?"

Hae-in sighed. "I just arrived in the building, dad."

"Okay, that's good. Don't forget to rest as you still have a jet lag from the flight."

"I know."

"I will tell your mother that you have arrived in South Korea. Oh, and—" Antares paused. It took a minute for him to return to the call. "Right. Your Aunt Esha came and told me to remind you to wear the clothes she bought for you."

"Fine. . . "

"Stay safe, Hae-in."

The call ended and the limo stopped in front of the entrance. Hae-in opened the door and snuck out whilst two employees came to bring her luggages out of the back of the car. When she stepped into the building, she was instantly greeted by a familiar face whom she met in college. His glasses glistened under the bright lights and his red hair was parted above his left eyebrow, standing tall and professional in his brown and black suit.

"Look who arrived!" He grinned at her.

"Jong-in." Hae-in smiled in spite of her slacking state. "Have you been waiting long for me?"

"Yes, I have been standing here all night just for you!" Jong-in said, then he flashed her a look. "No, it was your stepdad who told me to wait for you after you had left the airport."

Hae-in laughed. "Well, I should get some rest. See you la— KYA!"

"Surprise!" Someone wrapped their arms around her from behind.

Ah yes, she knew that voice all too well. . . Esil Radiru. One of her closest friends in school and had a soul full of sunshine despite her style of black, gold, and purple. Even so that she had dyed her hair purple since she was young.

"Esil! Since when did you get here?" Hae-in asked. Her jet lag seemed to wear off because of her lively friend.

"I'm just right behind you, duh!" Esil giggled.

Meanwhile, Jong-in sighed and nudged his glasses. "You two should keep it down. I don't want to face the hotel manager because of the ruckus."

The two girls laughed and made their way to the elevator, followed by the hotel employees who were carrying their belongings. They parted ways when they reached their designated floor and the first thing Hae-in did when she entered the room was to drop herself on the bed.

She was in South Korea. . . Home at last.

She missed the weather, the cold season, the streets, the food, the fresh air, the parks, the blossoms, and— her friends.

People whom she was forced to leave behind, but. . . She was here now. Could they still remember her? Hae-in had stopped communicating with any of them due to the timing conflicts and schedules. She took out her phone and scrolled through the numbers which she kept over the years with the hopes of being able to get in touch with them.

She called the first contact.

"CHA HAE-IN?!" It was Lee Ju-hee, one of her closest friends in high school

Hae-in had to move her phone away due to the voice. She laughed. "Yes, it's me."

"Oh my God!! When did you arrive?" Ju-hee asked. "How are you? How was America? Did you become an athlete there too?"

"Easy with the questions!" Hae-in said. "Yes, I arrived just a few moments ago. I've been doing great, most especially now that I still managed to contact you in spite of all these years."

"Of course! I had your number saved no matter what because I knew you'd be going back just like what you said." Ju-hee's smile was evident in her tone that Hae-in could picture it in front of her eyes. "And, it's perfect that you're back! We are having a reunion party and I was hoping that you could come."

Hae-in shifted to the other side of the mattress. "Of course, I will. Where is the party located?"

"At Hotel SSS."

Hae-in suddenly sprung upward. "That's where I am staying!"

Her friend gasped. "Really? OMG!"

Sleep forgotten, the two girls spent the next few hours chatting with each other, catching up on the days Hae-in had missed since she was living in the other side of the globe. Ju-hee was one of her closest friends in high school, along with others that Hae-in was yet to meet again, and she was also now a professional nurse in one of the country's best hospitals.

It was amazing how one of her dearest friends had become successful in life. Hae-in could only wonder what would it be for the rest once she crossed path with them again. After ending the call, she realized she got five hours left to prepare, so lucky for her, Esil was around and she was the only one who could help her.

Hae-in brought out a luggage, which was filled with lavish clothes purchased by Querehsha, Antares' adopted sister, the day before her flight. It took several tries of the clothes before Hae-in chose the right one — she didn't wish to stand out just because she came from another country.

The attire had hugged her figure comfortably. It was a black blouse that showed her shoulder blades, matched with a pair of soft trousers and a golden belt around her waist to accentuate the look; her feet was adorned with brown sandals and her wrist had a silver bracelet that was the same color as her dangling earrings. Her makeup was light and her lips were coated in soft pink to blend in her skin tone.

She was both anxious and thrilled. What would others think of her? Would they still see her as the same Hae-in they had last seen? Hae-in didn't want to make it look like she had changed. She hoped they wouldn't view her as a stranger, and she hoped their reaction would be the same as Ju-hee's.

When the time hit eight o' five, she felt she was ready.

Jong-in and Esil were with her since Ju-hee said it was alright to tag other people along since she would also be bringing along some people to the event. Hae-in wanted to introduce her two friends to her other friends because she thought they deserved to know the ones who had kept her company.

There were already a lot of people in the event when they had arrived in the top floor. Many familiar faces were seen, yet Hae-in only aimed to meet the ones she had dearly missed. It didn't take long for her to find them, they were gathered next to the table that featured desserts as they chattered.

"Ju-hee!" She called out.

Ju-hee turned around and instantly stretched her lips into a broad smile. Her ginger hair was made into a half-ponytail and loose waves down to her waistline. She wore a beautiful green dress that traveled below her knees. "Hae-in!"

The two girls rushed to each other for an embrace, squeezing each other tightly to express how long they had been longing to reunite, then they pulled away. Ju-hee looked over her shoulder and waved her hand. "Guys! She's here!"

Baek Yoon-ho was the next one to greet her. "Hae-in! It's been so long since the last time I'd seen you in school."

"Likewise, Yoon-ho," chuckled Hae-in. She gestured to her two friends. "These are Choi Jong-in and Esil Radiru. They are my friends when I was studying in America."

"Hello! Hae-in told me so much about you all!" Esil smiled with a light bounce in her grey dress.

On the other hand, Jong-in just dipped his head and placed his hand to his chest. "Pleased to meet you."

Yoon-ho huffed. "I didn't know you are friends with royalty, Hae-in."

"For your information, I was raised in a high class family, which is why I have manners." Jong-in told him with a subtle glare.

"You sure don't know how to take compliments, Mr. Choi."

Hae-in rolled her eyes at the two and found another face in their circle. "Byung-gyu! I didn't think you'd be here too!"

"Ju-hee forced me to tag along." Byung-gyu shrugged.

"You two know each other?" Hae-in raised an eyebrow.

"Well, yes. Technically, we are— ow!" Byung-gyu winced when Ju-hee had hit him on the side with her elbow. "What was that for?!"

"I told you I am going to be the one to announce it and you'll announce the other thing!" Ju-hee said. She turned to Hae-in, who was still looking at them in confusion. "Byung-gyu and I are dating. We met in college and thanks to having similar friends, we hit off."

"That's great to hear! I wish you happiness in your relationship." Hae-in smiled.

"Gee. . . You hadn't changed at all." Byung-gyu chuckled. "How did you manage being the same person? Usually, people who hadn't seen each other for a long time will notice major differences."

"I guess that was my goal when I was in the states," Hae-in shrugged. "Mom did say I changed quite a bit, but I didn't mind it too much."

Byung-gyu smiled. "That's good."

"And what is the other thing that you are going to announce, Byung-gyu?" Hae-in asked.

Ju-hee smiled at her boyfriend with an anticipating smile. Byung-gyu rubbed the back of his neck and opened his mouth to speak.

In an instant, Hae-in felt her heart race.

Jin-woo rinsed his hands with the running water and switched the faucet off. He faced his reflection in the mirror and lightly ran his fingers through his hair and fixed his fringes on his forehead, making sure they hadn't left their arrangement. Once he was satisfied, he made his way out of the comfort room and returned to the party to go to his friends.

Tae-gyu was the one who saw him and flashed his signature smirk. There were Jin-ho, Byung-gyu, Yoon-ho, Ju-hee, Hee-jin, and two other people he did not know. He was sure he hadn't seen them either when he was standing amongst the crowd.

He did not understand the point of these events — these were just people showing off how far they had come in life. And since he didn't had one, Byung-gyu dragged him and Tae-gyu because his girlfriend had told him to go. Jin-woo didn't understand how he managed to give into his friend's wishes, and yet, he was here.

But at least it was his excuse to skip his shift in the precinct.

"Hyung! Where did you go?" Jin-ho asked him.

"I just went to the washroom." Jin-woo said. "Did I miss something?"

"Oh, you missed big time!" Tae-gyu placed his hand on his friend's shoulder. "Before anything else, I'd like to introduce you to our guests — Choi Jong-in and Esil Radis."

"It's— Radiru." The purple-haired girl held her index finger.

"You must be Sung Jin-woo." The one with glasses and a maroon suit, Jong-in, spoke.

"The one and only!" Jin-ho chimed in with a toothy grin

"Nice to meet you, Mr. Choi." Jin-woo nodded.

Jong-in grinned in return.

"Wait— are you Jin-woo?" The girl next to him piped up.

"You just heard his name, Esil." Jong-in sighed.

Esil suddenly appeared in front of him and covered her hands on her mouth to let out a gasp. Jin-woo blinked. "Yes?"

"This is so amazing! I finally got to meet the guy Hae-in tells me a lot about!" Esil squealed.

Jin-woo blinked again. But as the words dawned on him, his eyes widened. "Hold on. . . Hae-in is here?!"

"She just got here after you had gone to the washroom." Ju-hee said. "She went outside to get some fresh air, I think."

"Maybe she's just too nervous." Hee-jin giggled. "I can see how her expression changed when Byung-gyu told her about you."

"I'll have to excuse myself, guys," Jin-woo declared.

"Don't worry about us. Go and see Hae-in! Just don't take too long, otherwise we might be speculating interesting things." Tae-gyu wiggled his eyebrows.

He sent him a death glare. "Shut up."

Jin-woo went to the terrace and a breeze swayed his dark blue necktie past his chest. There were less people around here than in the inside, partly due to the frigid atmosphere. He walked around and scanned his surroundings. He wasn't sure if he'd be able to point which one was Hae-in. But Ju-hee said she was here, therefore she could be just around the corner or at the edge to see the city below.

For the first time ever, Jin-woo felt his heart race.

It wasn't the thrill of capturing criminals, and no, it wasn't the thrill of catching up to his favorite episodes either. It was the thrill of meeting the person he had been waiting to come back. She left when they were seventeen, gone for eight years, came back when they were twenty-five.

What should he say to her? Hello? Hi? Jin-woo needed to calm himself down. . .

By the time he got back to his reality, he found her. She had her back facing him while she had her attention to the vast world. Jin-woo had a pounding feeling that it was her, it was the short blonde hair that he knew all his life, so it must be her.

Jin-woo opened his mouth, and then closed it, every word etched in his mind had faded away. He extended his head as if to reach out to her. And finally, his voice came in a whisper like the subtle wind.

"Hae-in."

The world came into a pause. . .

Their eyes met. Memories crashed like waves kissing the sand. Jin-woo had never felt so surreal. . . And just then, a body was pressed to his own and a sweet scent of strawberries wafted in his nose in tresses of gold. Her arms were around his neck — and it all had to take was his arms to envelope her waist to cause his heart to do somersaults.

"You are here." God, her voice sounded like the first drop of blossom would be.

Jin-woo sighed through his nose. "You came back."

"You—" Hae-in failed to hold back her own laugh after she untangled herself from him. "Idiot!"

"What did I do?" Jin-woo looked at her in confusion.

Hae-in smiled widely. "Nothing. I just missed you so much, Jin-woo!"

"I missed you too, Hae-in." Jin-woo chuckled. Much more.

"You look like you're still the same boy I last saw." Hae-in said. "How is it going, Jin-woo?"

"I. . . " Great, he was loss of words again.

She frowned. "Are you okay? Aren't you the one who said that distance means nothing?"

"No, I mean— yes! I—" Jin-woo sighed and scratched the back of his neck. "I'm sorry, Hae-in. I guess I am just too surprised to see you again after almost a decade."

"It's all right. I feel quite the same." Hae-in smiled softly. "If you want, we can sit somewhere and talk."

"That'll be great." Jin-woo smiled back.

They found an empty bench and sat next to each other. The only problem was that there was a few inches of distance between them. At first, they were silent rather than talking in the way they were supposed to. Jin-woo couldn't help but feel frustrated at himself, remembering all those words he had said to her that night, he told her that nothing would change. They were still best friends.

"It's nice to be back in Seoul. I missed this place a lot and never spent a day without thinking about it." Hae-in began. "For the first time in eight years, I felt freedom and at home."

"Well, you made a lot of memories here. And I'm sure you made new ones in America too." Jin-woo said.

"Yeah, but it isn't the same as here. I had a hard time adjusting to everything, especially when you're the stepdaughter of a powerful businessman, but. . . I got through it. I stuck close with Esil and Jong-in." Hae-in said

"That's nice to hear."

"What about you? How have you been in these eight whole years?" She turned to him, her earrings swaying in the light breeze as her hair.

Jin-woo sighed. There had been a lot of things that had happened to him. . . He got through high school with his friends, got a job as a detective, helped his sister with her college fees, witnessed Jin-ah graduate, supported his father when it came to finance, and many others that he lost count of.

To be frank, he had not realized how far he had come. Until now.

"I became a detective." He answered.

"Wow, that is amazing. I remember you once mentioning it, though I can't recall the exact day." Hae-in pondered.

Jin-woo chuckled. "It's been many years, so no need to pressure yourself into remembering it. We start to forget many things as we grow older."

"Indeed." Hae-in concurred. "So. . . Byung-gyu and Ju-hee are dating. What about you? Any particular girl?"

"You won't actually believe if I tell you." Jin-woo snickered. "No, I am not dating anyone."

"What? But you're twenty-five! And look at yourself, I'm sure a lot of women must be swooning over you."

"I just don't have the time."

"You said the same thing even when we were in school." Hae-in huffed.

Jin-woo rolled his eyes. "In that case, let me ask you the same thing. Are you involved with some handsome guy in America?"

"Nope!" Hae-in said, popping the 'p'. "I don't find any suitable guy. Sure, most of them are nice, but I just couldn't see myself getting involved with them in any other way."

"Seems like we are still in the same page after all." Jin-woo grinned.

They talked some more after that. There were little bits of laughter, some teases, some smiles, and subtle glances to remind themselves that this wasn't a dream. Hae-in still looked the same, but as Jin-woo looked closely, she had somehow matured while having that youthful glint radiating from her. She was still as bright and sweet as before.

They eventually stopped when they realized they had left their friends inside and were probably wondering what was taking them so long. So, they got up from the bench and Hae-in suddenly shivered in the wind, Jin-woo peeled off his dark blue blazer to drape it over her shoulders. She smiled at him in return. Jin-woo felt at ease, which he remembered the day he wrapped a towel around Hae-in's body after she was soaked in the rain.

He didn't know how long he had spent talking with Hae-in until he noticed there were some people who were heading to the exit. It seemed the party was over. But his friends were still around though, chattering with Hae-in's new friends.

"There you two are! Geez, have you forgotten about the time?" Yoon-ho said.

"I told you, hyung, they are having a very special moment in their lives!" Tae-gyu said. "How are you feeling, Jin-woo?"

"Good." Jin-woo nodded.

"What about you, Hae-in? You look like you're getting tired." Hee-jin remarked.

"Oh, well, I haven't got some shut-eye since I came to the hotel." Hae-in chuckled. "I think I should head back even though I badly want to catch up with you all."

"Don't worry about it! We can set a date to hang out again." Ju-hee smiled at her in reassurance.

"Thank you, Ju-hee," Hae-in smiled back. She took off the blazer from her shoulders and handed it back to its owner. "Thanks for lending me this, Jin-woo."

"It's alright. Just get some rest." Jin-woo said, taking back his jacket.

Hae-in nodded her head at him and left with Jong-in and Esil out of the hall. Jin-woo watched her departing figure, his mind replayed the time they had spent together in the terrace — the first time they had been around each other in many years. His emotions when he saw the cab drove her away came clashing like it happened yesterday.

"What are you going to do next, hyung-nim?" Jin-ho went to his side.

"What do you mean by that, Jin-ho?"

"Well, since Hae-in is back, surely you have other plans, right?"

Jin-woo looked at his friend with an odd look. "What plans?"

"God, have you lost your braincells during your talk with Ms. Cha? Your childhood best friend is here, so how are you going to hang out with her?" Tae-gyu elaborated. "Besides, we don't know how long she is going to be in Korea."

Oh. It finally dawned on him. Hae-in did mention to him that she had been trying to convince her mother and stepfather to let her go back to South Korea, and only did when she had managed to proved herself enough that she could take care of herself. But she did not mention him how long she would stay. Or even Jin-woo had asked her to. He was too caught up that he had forgotten about such a thing.

He pressed his lips together. "I don't know."

"What do you mean you don't know?"

"It's been several years, Tae-gyu. How many days she had left before going back again?"

Tae-gyu sighed then rubbed his friend's shoulder. "Admit it, Jin-woo. You are just afraid to see her go away again."

Maybe I do, maybe I might. Jin-woo bit his cheek. "You know what? Let's just go. We still have a shift with Jin-chul tomorrow morning and we can't have him chop our heads off, can we?"

"Right." Tae-gyu chuckled. He turned to the rest. "Hey! Jin-woo wants to go home. Anybody wants to ride with him?"

Jin-woo's eyebrows shot up. "What?!"

"Me!"

"Oh! Can you drop me off at the bookstore?"

"Wait for me, hyung!"

Sigh. . . Jin-woo scratched the side of his hair.

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"Ahhhh!!!!" Esil squealed as she rolled around the bed. She pressed a pillow close to her chest. "Hae-in! You never told me how handsome Jin-woo is!"

"Is that even necessary?" Hae-in said, scrubbing her hair with her towel.

"Oh, come on~ you gotta miss seeing his face!"

She chuckled. "Maybe I do. But it's not like I'm going to babble how good he looks. I don't need words to prove it."

"Ha! So you do agree he's handsome!" Esil pointed her finger at her friend.

"Shut up." Hae-in rolled her eyes. Deep inside, it felt breathtaking to see his face again. That timid boy she had met and grew up with had grown into a man. If anything, she felt as though she was seeing a different person, learning how he had been throughout these years. . . It pierced her heart.

Esil cleared her throat to get her attention. "Are you two going to hang out?"

"I'm not sure, Esil. Jin-woo seems pretty busy with work and I don't want to disturb him into hanging out with me." Hae-in told her.

"But he's your best friend! You haven't seen each other for a long time."

"We're adults now. Not high schoolers. But, I do hope that we'd get some time together just like we used to."

Esil sighed and flipped to her back, placing the pillow on her stomach. "You know, when you two came inside, you look cute together. Are you sure Jin-woo doesn't have a crush on you or you crushing on him?"

"Pfft— me and Jin-woo? No!" Hae-in huffed. "I was gone from his life for eight years, that's impossible."

"But, if you hadn't left, do you think there is a possibility?"

Hae-in fell silent. She continued to scrub her hair with her towel and headed to the bathroom to drape it over the rack then walked back to her room where Esil was patiently waiting for her answer. But instead, she sat on the edge of her bed, letting the mattress dip on her weight, and plopped down.

"I don't know either." She said.

Not once she had thought of herself and Jin-woo being more than friends. Surely, he felt the same way. And yes, Jin-woo was indeed an attractive man in both inside and outside, he could sweep a woman off her feet just by his gaze. But Hae-in had never pictured herself being that "woman".

Besides, Jin-woo would find himself falling for someone else sooner or later.

And Hae-in? She had no hopes for a love life on her own. Her life in America had proved it, and with her status as the stepdaughter of Antares, businessman would come to her and offer her hand in marriage to their sons. That was also the reason she used to persuade her family into allowing her to get flight tickets.

She needed to get away.

After getting a sufficient sleep, Hae-in woke up to a message from Ju-hee, inviting her for lunch. She immediately got up and spent her breakfast with her two friends, Hae-in offered them to come with her, but they declined — Jong-in had a meeting with someone and Esil wanted to see the blossoms. A few moments later, Hae-in left the hotel and went on a cab to bring her to her desired location.

Ju-hee greeted her, along with Hee-jin, Byung-gyu, Yoon-ho, and Tae-gyu, who was wearing a detective uniform with an I.D lace. Hae-in waved her hand at them. However, she noticed there was someone missing in the table. A small part of her crushed, but she didn't want to ruin the mood when she could be with her friends once again.

Like she said, he was busy with his work.

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"You're back early."

Jin-woo looked up from his computer. "Oh, hey!"

Jin-chul rolled his eyes and took a sip on his coffee. "I am surprised Lim Tae-gyu isn't around. The two of you usually return in the office together."

"Well. . . He went off to spend lunch with some of our friends."

"Then why didn't you go?"

"I have some work to do."

"Work? Don't make me laugh, Sung," scoffed Jin-chul. "Since when do you get back to office work so fast? The only time you get motivated is when it's time to chase criminals."

"Ha ha." Jin-woo rolled his eyes. He grabbed a paper from the stack next to him and scrolled down the screen.

"Oh, I heard your childhood friend came back from another country. Are you going to leave work early?"

"I'm not sure." Jin-woo said.

His senior raised an eyebrow. "Why are you not sure? Or maybe you just don't want to?"

Jin-woo stopped moving the mouse.

"Gotcha." Jin-chul let out a grin and took another sip. "A piece of advice, don't hold yourself back because of whatever fear you have. And don't make excuses either. Think about what she feels and do something about it before it's too late."

He walked away after that, leaving Jin-woo in his pool of thoughts.

No, he had a great time when he got reunited with her. All his emotions were true. Sure, he hadn't seen her for so long that he forgot to act normally, but that could've been just one thing. Jin-woo needed to register his emotions before he do something foolish.

He waited for her every day.

When they stopped keeping in touch, Jin-woo still checked his phone. He held on the hope of her coming back no matter how long it would be. If he could, he'd rather keep her in his arms and—

Jin-woo shook his head and concentrated on his work before Jin-chul catches him and says something else. Then, he heard his phone let out a ding.

[ Jin-ah (gremlin): big brother! Can you buy some chicken? Mom's tired from cleaning the house and dad isn't home yet. ]

[ Jin-woo (Psycho Brother): you got a job now. You do it. ]

[ Jin-ah (Gremlin): pleaseee!!!!! JUST THIS ONCE! ]

[ Jin-ah (Gremlin): *sends a bowing gif* ]

Jin-woo sighed.

[ Jin-woo (Psycho Brother): fine. ]

And so, after ending his shift, Jin-woo grabbed his bag and jacket off his chair and bid farewell to his co-workers. He got into his car and drove to the restaurant that served roasted chicken in takeouts. The cashier flashed him a sweet smile in the entire time, yet he chose to patiently waited for his order to arrive.

After his order came, with the chicken being served in a container inside of a plastic bag, Jin-woo took it and made his way out of the restaurant. His car was parked right in front of the place, he took his keys from his pocket when somebody suddenly bumped into him, causing the keys to slip out of his fingers.

"I'm so sorry! I wasn't looking properly in my path!"

As soon as he retrieved his keys from the ground. Jin-woo looked to his right side and his eyes suddenly stretched wide. "Hae-in?"

"Jin-woo!" Hae-in parted her mouth in surprise. She cleared her throat. "It's— it's nice to see you here."

"Same here." Jin-woo nodded his head. He bit his cheek and looked at the bag he was holding. "Uh, do you want to come with me? My sister asked me to buy dinner and since you're here— you should meet them."

She blinked. "Really?"

"Of course. They missed you too, you know?" The corner of his mouth twitched into a grin.

Hae-in smiled and accepted his offer.

The car ride was quiet, almost awkward for his own good. Jin-woo kept throwing furtive glances at Hae-in, who was looking through the window, and not even the music from the radio made a big help. His fingers curled around the steering wheel as he contemplated which sentence to say.

"So. . . You had lunch with the guys." He began.

"Yeah." Hae-in nodded.

"I'm sorry if I wasn't there. I had to finish some work, so I wouldn't have to overtime."

Hae-in's lips twitched into a smile. "I understand."

And just like that, the conversation died.

Was this the effect of an eight-year miscommunication? Everything was just so. . . Awkward.

Fortunately, after enduring another painful few minutes, they finally arrived at the house. Jin-woo pulled into the driveway and turned off the engines. He and Hae-in simultaneously got out of the vehicle and headed to the door; however, Jin-woo could sense her jittery, so he reached out and lightly squeezed her hand in reassurance. They got inside and took off their shoes whilst he handed her a pair of slippers to wear.

"Brother, is that you?" Jin-ah appeared. Right when her gaze found the family's unexpected visitor, she let out a gasp. "HAE-IN!"

Hae-in suddenly had Jin-ah's arms around her tightly. Her face broke into a broad grin. But with her arms trapped in the girl's embrace, she laughed. "I'm so glad to see you, Jin-ah! You've grown a lot. . . "

"I thought you are never coming back!" Jin-ah exclaimed as if she was close to tearing up. She looked at her brother and glowered at him. "Why didn't you tell me that she's here?!"

"Call it a surprise." Jin-woo shrugged plainly.

Ill-hwang and Kyung-hye soon appeared because of the ruckus, they too were elated upon seeing Hae-in in their home. They settled in the dinner table and spent the entire night talking to Hae-in, asking how she had been, and the smile in her face could lit up the entire world. Jin-woo almost lost focus on his meal as he was too occupied with glancing at the woman next to him, it was amusing how his family treated her the same way like before — his parents genuinely adored her and Jin-ah couldn't be happier with the girl who was like a sister to her.

Back then, Hae-in used to eat dinner with them if her parents were still not home. She would help around with the dishes and chatter along. Kyung-hye even let her help with cooking.

Jin-woo chuckled silently to himself. Everything was perfect.

Hae-in stayed longer after dinner to continue talking with Kyung-hye, Ill-hwang, and Jin-ah until Kyung-hye decided it was time for her to get some rest. As expected, Jin-woo would take her home. Jin-ah embraced Hae-in once more and told her to come more often; Hae-in caressed the younger girl's hair and nodded.

If the first car ride was filled with silence, the second one was filled with voices this time. Hae-in expressed how much she missed his family, Jin-woo laughed and gave her more details that she had missed. They joked around through the whole journey until they arrived in the hotel's vicinity, Jin-woo pivoted the wheel around to turn his car's direction to the front.

He walked his best friend to the entrance and stopped as he waited for her to go inside. However, she just stood next to him.

"Jin-woo." Hae-in spoke.

"Yes?"

"You're not. . . Avoiding me, are you?"

Jin-woo paused. The look on Hae-in's face was enough to crack his heart, the sadness and hopefulness whirling in her eyes, and the way she clutched on her bag's strap as if to brace herself. At first, he lowered his head and stashed his hands into his pockets, then he gazed up.

"No. Why would I be avoiding you?" He said.

Hae-in sighed, a small smile curving across her lips. "Nothing. I had a feeling, but I guess I'm just being too sensitive."

Jin-woo stepped closer to her, flashing her a wider smile than hers. "I'm still the same guy, you know?"

"Right. . . " Hae-in chuckled. She threw a glance at the door behind her. "Well, I should head inside. I'll see you soon?"

"Of course."

He watched her walk into the hotel after she waved her hand. Jin-woo's smile slowly subsided, her question repeated in his mind like an echo, his chest clenched at the expression on her face while saying those words.

I'm sorry. Came the unspoken words. I didn't mean to make you feel that way, Hae-in.

Many people, including his friends, looked up to him for being a very brave person. His job brought him into many situations that involved fighting with his bare hands and going against various weapons. But it all had to take was a very special person in his life to crack his armor. . . Jin-woo didn't know how he should face her once more days would begin to pass.

Before her return, he used to dream a lot of what would it be once he crossed paths with her again. But now that she did, it seemed his expectations turned upside down. The line between friendship and something else morphed into a blur. Jin-woo suddenly felt conflicted the more he contemplated deeper into his emotions— why am I feeling this way?

"Sung Jin-woo?"

He turned around and saw a tall man with red hair and a pair of glasses. It was the guy Hae-in had brought along with her in the party. "Oh, it's you— er, John."

"John?" The man widened his eyes in shock at his response. "God— it's Jong-in."

"Sorry." Jin-woo scratched his neck in abashed.

"I'll let this one slide." Jong-in sighed and nudged his glasses. "What are you doing here, Jin-woo? Did you come for Hae-in?"

"No, I just brought her here."

Jong-in nodded. "Then why are you still here? Shouldn't you be heading home now?"

"I am." Jin-woo said and began to make his way to his car, only then to feel a hand on his shoulder.

"You seem conflicted," said Jong-in.

"Not really. . . "

His lips curled into a smirk. "Don't fool me. I studied psychology before I take on business. So tell me. . . Are you feeling anything for my friend, Cha Hae-in?"

"Why do you people always think like that?" Jin-woo groaned and pried Jong-in's hand off his shoulder. He walked to his car and grabbed the door handle.

"She won't stay long in Korea, you know?"

His hand froze.

"Her stepdad only gave her the chance to fly just for her vacation. Sooner or later, she would be called to return to America." Jong-in continued. "Hae-in missed her friends a lot, which is why she plans to spend time with them as much as she can. So I suggest you should stop acting strange."

"Why are you talking like I have feelings for her?" Jin-woo grumbled.

"You don't?" Jong-in scoffed. "My, when Hae-in was telling me about you, I thought you are a rational person. But it seems my judgement has wronged me for the first time."

Jin-woo rolled his eyes and climbed into the driver's seat.

She won't stay long in Korea, you know?

His grip on the steering wheel and in frustration, Jin-woo pressed his forehead against it. He didn't want her to leave. . . He wanted her to stay. Living eight years without learning a single word from her had been a struggle, to the point he felt like it was killing him. He feared that if he spent time with her, the less time she would have left before leaving the country again.

Almost like Hae-in would be the one to break his heart.

"Don't leave me again." He whispered to himself.

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It had been a few weeks since she was back in Seoul. Antares or her mom would call her once in a while, and Hae-in happily answered their calls, telling them how great she had been doing with her friends. Esil and Jong-in also found themselves amongst her old friends, they would come along with her whenever everyone was up for lunch or dinner at a restaurant.

But there was always something missing. . . Jin-woo.

Sure, he would appear every now and then, but he wouldn't take long and leave because he had important things to do. Hae-in, being Hae-in, understood. But sometimes. . . She had enough.

Even their messages had fallen short.

She felt something had changed since the night Jin-woo had brought her back to the hotel. He was different. Strange even. Hae-in felt like he was avoiding her, Ju-hee tried to reassure her that he just liked to put his work first, but part of it didn't sit well with her.

It was night and everyone was gathered in the table. Two sets of stove were settled and a bunch of stripped meat sizzled on the pans. They laughed and chatter to one another in chorus; meanwhile, Hae-in was listening to Jin-ho's plan about setting his own company instead of following his father's footsteps.

"I was thinking if I should name it 'Beautiful World'." Jin-ho said. "What do you think?"

"Uh. . . How sure are you with that name, Jin-ho?" Hae-in asked and grabbed a pork with her chopsticks to put into her mouth. "Any other ideas?"

Jin-ho groaned and took a single chug on his drink. "You could've said it sounds cliche. I need to think of a better name so my father will—"

"Guys! It's Jin-woo!" Byung-gyu exclaimed. "He made it!"

Everyone turned their attention to the newly arrival and Tae-gyu patted on the empty spot, which was right next to Hae-in. However, Hae-in got up.

"I need to go." She said.

"I'll come with you." Esil piped up.

Hae-in held her hand up. "No, just stay here, Esil. I can go home by myself."

Esil nodded. "Okay."

"Hae-in?" Jin-woo looked at her.

"I'm tired, Jin-woo," Hae-in murmured and brushed past him.

"Wait!"

She walked faster to the exit.

She had enough. She had created many new memories with her friends, but not with Jin-woo. Hae-in hadn't gotten to hang out with him as she anticipated for a long time. Work here, busy that. He was really showing that he wanted nothing to do with her.

Hae-in truly lost her best friend.

Tears pierced into her eyes, but she clutched on her bag to stop them from flowing. She glanced forward and checked if there was any transportation vehicle heading to her way.

Then, she felt someone grab her hand.

Hae-in was about to yank it away, but the person kept it firm.

"Hae-in." It was Jin-woo.

She refused to meet his gaze. "What do you want? Shouldn't you be with them?"

"I know." He replied. "But. . . Can you go out with me tomorrow? I'll text you the location."

Hearing those words, Hae-in finally looked up to him.

"I will explain everything."

Everything? Did he mean the reason why he was acting all strange? But, what if he would leave her out of the blue?

No! She silenced her thoughts. Jin-woo was a man of his word, so if he said something like that, he meant it.

" . . . Okay." Hae-in accepted his offer.

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The following day came like a breeze. Esil squealed when Hae-in told her about where she was going and Jong-in just nodded his head, saying that Jin-woo better not mess everything up or else he'd burn his brain. Hae-in somehow couldn't quite understand what her friend meant, yet listened regardless.

She wasn't certain what she should feel once she went out to meet Jin-woo.

For the first time since she came back, not once she had hung out where it was just her and him. Like in the old days. But Jin-woo said he would explain everything to her. . . Could he be using his work as an excuse all this time?

Whatever the reason was, Hae-in deserved to hear what he was about to say. She endured her resentment toward him enough. Idiot, idiot, idiot! She'd scream through her mind every time he slipped into her thoughts.

"I hope you'll have a great time, Hae-in!" Esil smiled brightly from the doorframe. "I'm rooting for the both of you!"

Hae-in playfully rolled her eyes and wrapped her scarf around her neck. "What are you going to do tonight, Esil?"

"I'll just watch TV. Jong-in had left a while ago to meet up with Yoon-ho in the restaurant for a business offer."

He never rests from every opportunity he sees. Hae-in sighed and faced her friend fully. "How do I look?"

She had a blue coat over a black long-sleeved shirt, a brown skirt over her tights, a pair of sneakers, and a white scarf around her neck to protect herself from the cold atmosphere brought by the night. She was only meeting up with Jin-woo, her best friend, after all.

"You look so pretty." Esil smiled genuinely. "Like you are going on a date with Jin-woo."

Her heartbeat increased. Though, Hae-in elected to shake her head off it and spoke. "I'll be heading off now!"

She left the building and rushed across the street to reach for the cab that was about to drive past her if she hadn't summoned it quickly.

Jin-woo told her to meet him at the park. She hoped she wouldn't be late since he hadn't mentioned a specific time, he just said in the message to go to the location by night.

People littered the whole place, merging into small groups or in pairs. Several vendors stood at the corners to attract customers with the deliciously served food and other trinkets sold in cheap prices. Fairy lights stretched across the whole area, glimmering brightly beneath the dark vast sky.

Hae-in scanned through the crowd in search of that tall, dark-haired man who owed her an explanation for his foolishness. After a couple of moments of walking around like a lost puppy, she brought out her phone and began to text him.

[ Hae-in (Pickaxe): where are you? ]

Damn, she didn't realize her contact name was still the same.

"Hey!"

"AH!" Hae-in let out a yelp, causing her steps to lose balance. Luckily, his arm quickly snaked around her waist and she found herself pressed against him.

"Caught you." Jin-woo said.

Noticing the proximity between their faces, Hae-in's cheeks heated up then pushed herself away from him.

She cleared her throat. "I believe you owe me something, Sung."

"I know." Jin-woo let out a smile. "Walk with me?"

Hae-in noticed his outstretched hand and took it. He kept his grip firm, as if he wouldn't allow her to let go, yet it was warm like their embrace in the terrace. But she knew just because they finally had some time together didn't mean his actions from the past few weeks were covered up.

Looking at his face, it was as if Jin-woo was at peace.

But even as much as she liked to appreciate their moment, the resentment was still burning in her heart. Jin-woo better had a proper explanation, otherwise she just wasted her time coming here for him and got her hopes up.

"I know you're probably mad at me." Jin-woo began.

"You think so?" Hae-in failed to resist the urge to scoff.

Jin-woo ignored her tone and continued. "I've been wanting to hang out with you since the beginning, Hae-in. My senior even told me that I am free to leave as early as I'd like after getting tasks done, but then, I chose to be stubborn and let you feel like this."

"Whose fault was it? Have you ever thought of my emotions if you keep leaving out of the blue?" Hae-in said. "Did my departure really affected you so much, Jin-woo? Then, I'm sorry."

Jin-woo felt her hand slipping away from his grasp, but he kept their physical contact intact. "No. . . You did nothing wrong. I am. Which is why I am going to fix everything that needs to be fixed between us."

"Good luck with that. I'd like to see how you are going to make up for the times I dealt with the fear of us becoming strangers because of your excuses!" Hae-in gritted her teeth. All those pent up anger were finally about to be released. "I don't want to lose my best friend, a person who means so much in my life. Tell me, does distance truly mean nothing to us?"

Jin-woo saw a stray tear coming down from the side of her left eye, so he reached out, but Hae-in moved her head away and so did her hand. He swallowed to keep himself together. "Look, I said that I will explain everything, right? I'll do it now and—"

"And then what? Will we still be the same after?" Hae-in's bottom lip quivered.

Jin-woo's heart shattered.

She strode away from him and blended into the crowd.

You failed, idiot! A voice yelled at him from his mind. Shaking his head to fight against it, Jin-woo took off and searched around the place for her. Perhaps if he could've just listened to Jin-chul and his friends, he wouldn't be like this. He and Hae-in wouldn't have been in this situation if he acted like a rational person.

But it was not a right time to blame himself, he must not ruin everything further. Hae-in still had so much to hear from him.

He was sorry. He didn't mean to break her heart.

She was most wonderful person he had ever met. And above all, he had spent a lifetime waiting for her.

Finally. . . He found her at the bridge. The lights still illuminated her figure and the wind brushed her hair in gentle dances, the waves sang softly below her, and Jin-woo approached her carefully. He wouldn't want her to run away from him again. Because this time, not a single word would be left unspoken.

He wrapped his arms around her from behind. Hae-in flinched, so he spoke before she could fight. "I was scared."

She calmed down.

"And I still am. I know you're going to go back sooner or later and I have no right to make you stay." He said. "In fact, I never wanted you to leave at all. But I knew you had to. And since you're here. . . I let myself drown in the fear of seeing you leave again, because believe me, you don't know how hard it will be for me."

"Why are you telling me all of this just now? You—" Hae-in's voice cracked. She hung her head low, her nails digging into the sleeves of his coat. "You're the reason why I wanted to come back so badly, Jin-woo."

"I'm sorry." Jin-woo pressed his forehead on her shoulder. "I'm so sorry. For being a coward."

She laughed humorlessly. "I am glad how aware you are this time."

"I am willing make up for it, Hae-in. Just tell me what to do. You're still my best friend and you always will be, but. . . " Jin-woo trailed off. He gently spun her around to face her completely and kept his arms around her waist whilst her hands found his chest. He briefly pressed his eyes shut, only to open them with determination blazing in his pupils, a juxtaposition to Hae-in's confused ones. "I'd like us to be more than that. I want to love you with no boundaries between us, Hae-in."

If he wasn't so dense, he would've realized that the moment his feelings for her changed the second he saw her again.

He loved her when she was his friend. So he was going to love her like his whole world if she allowed him to.

"Jin-woo. . . " Hae-in managed to let out. "Are you sure?"

"I've never been so sure in my entire life." His lips stretched into a smile.

Her cheeks blushed as she smiled broadly that she dipped her head, her fingers curling against his chest, and even though he couldn't not get a glimpse of her expression, her happiness was palpable that synced with the way his heart was beating against his chest.

Hae-in looked up to his eyes, wearing that smile he wished to treasure so much, and her arms stretched across his chest, locking around his neck to bring his face down while she stepped on her toes. His grip on her waist tightened. As their faces inched closer, they stared into each other, grinning like a pair of idiots.

He had done it. He mended the cracks.

Jin-woo held the back of her head and his gaze lowered to her lips, awaiting and inviting, then crashed them with his own in a quick plunge of his head. Their lips collided furiously, mixed with happiness and sweetness that was planted since the day they had met each other. He swore to himself that he would protect her, though he might not completely did due to various events, but he was certain he wouldn't miss a single thing this time.

She was his. And he was hers.

Jin-woo was no longer afraid. Hae-in took all those fears away as they stood together in the bridge, wrapped in each other's arms while their lips continued to clash, utterly forgetting about the world.

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

"Ah, Hae-in! It's a miracle that you called first this time." Antares said. "Did something happen, dearest?"

"Nothing. But, can I ask you a favor, father?" Hae-in asked and flashed a brief look over her shoulder. "Don't worry, I will tell mom and Aunt Esha later."

"What is it?"

"I'd like to cancel my vacation here." Her lips curved into a smile. "Because I will be living here from now on, so I was hoping that you'd accept my decision."

Her stepfather turned silent. But after some moments, he spoke. "Well. . . If that is what you want— what about your work here? You are a track and field instructor."

"I'll move my job as well."

Antares chuckled. "It seems there is nothing that I can do, huh? Very well. I hope you will live a great life there, Hae-in."

"I already am." Hae-in smiled.

Their call ended. And when she kept her phone into her bag, she heard a voice.

"Ready to go?" Jin-woo said after he had just left the restroom.

"Yep!" Hae-in got up from the chair and took his hand before they make their exit out of the restaurant.

Snow had piled up on every corner of the streets, with people heading out to clear the path in their stores, and the piercing cold wind flying throughout the city. Jin-woo and Hae-in walked hand-in-hand, they looked around their surroundings and Hae-in couldn't help but maintain her smile, she dearly missed this season. Winter had always felt different when she was out of the country.

But here, winter came like an angel.

"Seems like you're in deep thought even when you are smiling." Jin-woo remarked.

"Well, something great happened just now!" Hae-in said.

Jin-woo raised an eyebrow. "What is it?"

Hae-in moved in front of him and threw her arms around his neck. Even in his state, Jin-woo enveloped his arms around her waist just like he always did.

"You don't have to worry about me leaving, and I don't have to worry about being called back either." She smiled brightly. "I told my stepdad that I wanted to live here and he accepted it!"

Jin-woo's face instantly cracked a smile as if the sun had shone above him for the first time. He pulled her close into an embrace. Hae-in laughed at the way he had her in his arms — firm like he wouldn't let her get away even though she made it clear that she would be stuck with him for the rest of their lives. And her friends too, there was no need for them to say goodbye when they would see her often now.

"You're not gonna let go even though we're in public, are you?" Hae-in jested.

Jin-woo pressed his lips on her forehead, thus sending a wave of warmth across her body. "Nope. I don't care either. You're here and that is all I care about."

Hae-in laughed. Oh, how she loved this man. . .

They met when they were six. Hae-in was alone, Jin-woo came and became her best friend. They had each other's backs throughout thick and thin. They were inseparable and cared for each other unconditionally. An unexpected twist of fate drove a wedge between their paths, burning those dreams they still wished to achieve together, and lived in promises they had left behind. Hae-in came back, and Jin-woo saw a different fate. . .

He fell for his best friend. And so did she.

[tramin2025]

TO DO LIST (

CALL FOR PHOTO RESTORE

BUY ICLOUD

STUDY EVENT MANAGEMENT

FIND AN ORGANIZING SYSTEM

WRITE DOWN ACTIONABLE PLAN FROM READING THE BOOK "THE PERFECTIONIST'S GUIDE TO LOSSING CONTROL"

MASS CHURCH

WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO ME SINCE I PARTICIPATED IN TRIANGULATION FOR TOO LONG (INVOLVING IN PARENTAL ARGUMENT, SNACKING MY DAD WITH MY MOM, LISTEN TO MY MOM'S UNRESOLVED PROBLEM WITH MY DAD)? WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF NO LONGER PARTICIPATING?

feel like i'm responsible for any of their problems/ emotions

drain my energy

feel like an adult (over mature too early)

wanting to kill anyone who does me wrong

feeling used

feeling resentful, can not concentrating around them, keep thinking about how these people affect me instead of my goals, my dream, and what i am working on

-> establishing clear boundaries

"Another example of triangulation in romantic relationships could be a person calling their friend to vent about their partner every time they have a fight. When this happens frequently over time, the person’s venting to the friend can become a more comfortable outlet than ever addressing the cause of the fights directly with their partner. Additional problems in the romantic relationship can result, and the friend could feel overburdened or even used due to this triangulation tactic."

but the strength?

i feel like when i'm being put in a position of a therapist for too long, when i meet other people, i can easily connect with them (1-1) and listen to them also. that's sort of what i've been conditioned to do for a long time, like a training dog, i have known all the tactics to make people feel okay. when someone asks about me, it's very unusual thing for me. and i usually left feeling like i over share (if they are very close to me, in my perspective, or that i can trust them at some points)

In a hyperjudgmental home, your true self is often exiled.

Do small things that say: “I exist.”

Dress how you want.

Speak your thoughts (even just to yourself or your journal).

Follow people online who reflect your ideal future.

Make a Pinterest or moodboard of who you're becoming.

If your living situation is temporary, plan your exit:

Start saving money.

Research safe part-time jobs or internships.

Build quiet emotional support networks (online, friends, journaling).

One day, you’ll walk away — emotionally whole. But the work begins now.

You don’t have to win. You just have to stay sane.

Say less. Smile less. Be invisible when needed.

Choose where your energy goes — you don’t owe them access to your full emotional system.

Save your spark for the life you’re building — not the chaos you’re escaping.

You don’t always need to say “I’m setting a boundary.” Just change your response:

When they judge you: Don’t defend. Let them be wrong.

When they overshare: Change the topic. Leave the room.

When they get loud: Say you’re tired, and remove yourself.

Your consistency is the boundary. Not your words.

-> stay sane. use my spark for the life i'm building.

Stop Playing the Therapist (It’s a Trap)

Why: Triangulation makes you the “safe one,” so they dump their mess on you instead of fixing the real issue. It keeps you stuck and them comfortable.

What to say:

“I care about both of you, but I can’t be in the middle.” “That sounds really hard. I hope you two can talk directly.”

No fixing. No rescuing. No advice unless asked. Let silence do the boundary work.

Emotionally Detach Without Going Cold

What it means: You can care without carrying. Detach from their chaos, not from your own peace.

How to do it:

Internally repeat: “This is not mine to hold.”

When they dump emotional baggage, nod, listen briefly, then shift: “I’m sorry you’re dealing with that. I hope you can talk to [the person involved] about it.”

Keep your face calm, voice neutral. Don’t absorb. Don’t react.

Think of it like an emotional raincoat. You don’t stop the storm. You just stop it from soaking in.

[unfilteredgrounds]

Place

Whenever it seems like people are about to talk shit about where I live, I automatically get defensive. Because, well, duh, it's my home. I was born and raised on my farm, and once my parents die it will be my farm. Most of the time when people talk shit, they're just being classist assholes who have never taken the time to learn anything more about rural people than what they glean from Jeff Foxworthy specials and the worst of us running rampant on Facebook.

There are drawbacks with living out in the middle of nowhere. It's not like I can just have an aesthetic morning where I do a cute little jaunt to get brunch at one of numerous cafes, hit up the indie bookstore, maybe buy some flowers from a flowershop and go make pottery all in one day. I don't need to go through all that the small towns that are near where I live don't have to offer, because that's literally all other people who have migrated from small towns can ever talk about (the worst are those who do it with a sense of superiority, look, if you really love your town so much, why don't you go sell insurance there, townie-- I'm getting off track here). We do have a cute little cafe run by swedish immigrants, and SO MUCH lush forest life all around.

The plus sides to living in the middle of nowhere mean that I can go outside without my stupid brain reminding me that other people exist, and are probably looking at me. Being able to lay in the grass of whichever pasture I choose, doing whatever I want, is a godsend, and I now know that I'd be miserable without it. I love the animals on my farm, because animals are easy to understand and easy to get along with, and I love just being in the middle of nature, and the ability to pretend I know nothing of what happens outside my farm's borders (the world is on fire).

But it occurred to me, as my partner delicately mentioned the other day that "I think you could do with some time away from... that farm," that no place is simply bad on its own (I'm sure there are exceptions but I'm not here for that), it's the people that make it bad. When the words left his mouth, I immediately felt a sense of hurt, of betrayal-- he knows how much this farm means to me. But, thinking on it later, I realized he was trying not to say what really has had me in this rut. My parents. My lack of reliable social system. Of course he has no ill intent against the gravel roads, or the trees, it's that to an outsider, the people in my life, well, they look kinda shitty.

This realization is one of the reasons I don't talk about what bothers me, because I hate making other people look bad, and I hate looking like someone who only ever talks shit. Most of that is conditioning, but also because two of the most important people to me, my parents, are really bad at being that sometimes, and no kid wants to admit that. I love my parents, and I owe them a lot, so when I talk about the not-so-great things they say and do, I feel so guilty, like a traitor to some big alliance. But then things like my dad getting upset with me because I simply answered a question from mom and she (honestly idk how she managed to get pissed off at him from what I said that woman can make anything personal and insulting) got mad at him ? (he did not explain) happen, and I feel like my parents forget that I am their kid, not some hired hand to help out on the farm who's supposed to pick sides or whatever. At least with Dad, he forgets he's upset as easily as he forgets most other things.

I also felt guilty about even asking to take an extended trip. Which I shouldn't-- I don't often ask for things, and I certainly have done enough to earn it. I never complain when Mom takes me as an accessory to the trips she goes on-- I am once again dreading the trail ride this year because it will just be a lot of me sitting and being ignored while she and her friends hang out, and then get the occasional reprimand for "not being happy" enough even thought I get to come with. And yeah, I like riding, but I also like getting to talk to people who are interested in what I have to say, and every year I've asked to bring a friend, she gives me a scathing look and is like "oh so you don't want to hang out with me?" As if me sitting silently in the back while she and her friends talk about work is "hanging out."

See, if things really were as shiny and great with my parents as I present, I wouldn't have these feelings in the first place, and, as much as I hate to admit when men are right, my partner is right. I need a break from whatever the hell my family dynamic is. Even though our temps are far more bearable, and the pastures are green, mom has been texting and calling every day about rain, heaving dramatic sighs and grumbling when my answer is no. I really want to snap "Will you shut up about the damn rain already??? We're FINE. The sheep are FINE. Can you just relax and be content for fucking once?"

But whatever, it's been nice having a break from the doom hanging over the house when she's home at least, and I can go outside without wanting to die, so, plus for that. And I will have a good time away, regardless of whether other people approve of that or not.

[localcactushugger]

Does anyone else ever get sad thinking about the abuse Hawks went through as a kid? Because I keep making myself sad thinking about it.

It's so many different kinds of fucked up that just mixed together and created one huge toxic environment.

#1) The physical abuse.

Right off the bat, Chapter 299 starts with Keigo getting hit by his father for leaving the house. It doesn't actually show Keigo being smacked, instead it shows a panel of their "home". (although it's extremely small and looks more like a broken down shack in a field to me)

But the sound of the "smak" is very much punctuated in the panel, followed by Keigo hunched over with marks on his face:

The marks on his face are prevalent. Even in the smaller panel, Keigo still has a very obvious bruise under his eye and above his eyebrow.

THEN he gets kicked in the side/stomped on for "turning his back" on his father?? (Aka doing nothing. Literally what did he do?? Wtf?):

He's getting smacked and kicked around, but instead of crying or getting upset he just endures. Which brings me to:

#2) The Emotional and verbal abuse. (Strap in cause there's a lot of it.)

Keigo apologizes after his father kicks him for no reason, then he curls up into a ball, clings to his Endeavor plushy, and listens as his own father rants about how much he wishes that Keigo was never born.

^^^^^^^ LOOK AT WHAT YOU DID ASSHOLE. HE'S LITERALLY CLINGING TO HIS PLUSHY FOR COMFORT!! WHY ISN'T ANYONE HUGGING HIM??? CAN I HUG HIM??

Keigo says that he knew his parents were broken, so he endured because he wanted to avoid their fate.

Basically: "I know my parents are broken, but need to endure because I don't want to become broken too."

That's a horrible mindset for a child to have?? He's basically saying that he just needs to take the abuse and hope that he doesn't break because of it?

And I don't know how he wouldn't break from it with the way his parents talk to him, and all the horrible things they say:

The constant screaming/yelling. Like Shit.

"Don't do a damn thing!" " Who did you sell me out too?? You can't fool me!!" "Don't leave this house!" "Don't you dare lie to me!!" "Don't go talking to anyone!!" "You thought you'd get away with it didn't you??"

"How many times have I told you not to turn your back on me??"

"If only that punk was never born I'd be free."

"Why were you even born?" "Why do you even have those wings?"

He's gotten it from both parents. And every time it happens he just hugs his plushy a little tighter.

#3) The neglect.

In pretty much all panels of Keigo's home theres Trash everywhere. If you go back and look at the house there isn't a single panel without some kind of trash in the frame. I see beer bottles, wine bottles, wooden planks, trash bags, newspapers, dirty rags, dirty laundry hanging from the wall & hangers, floor boards coming up, leaks from the top of the walls.

The "house" is barely holding together as it is. It looks like it's about to collapse, and the inside makes you think a tornado ran through it. Nobody is bothering to clean up the mess. In fact the only person who seems to be patching up the house is Keigo. This seems to be a routine for him since he can be seen picking up a wooden plank to fix the wall. Too bad his father kicked him before he could repair the hole 🙃.

Seriously does the "house" even have running water? The windows are broken the walls are made of tin roofing tiles. Does it even have heating or insulation? It's obviously not suitable for a child. I'd be afraid that the roof was gonna fall on me while I was sleeping.

I understand they can't buy a proper home. But it wouldn't be so bad if someone acutely bothered to clean the inside a bit. At least maintain the house so your kid doesn't step on a nail, or glass from a beer bottle. IF A CHILD CAN PATCH UP A WALL SO CAN YOU. WHY IS KEIGO DOING ALL THE WORK?

You people are gonna get rats and bugs. (If you dont have them invading your "house" already)

And that's only the house.

What about Keigo? He doesn't even have shoes. His shirt is torn at the seams. And his parents didn't even notice when he left? Keigo's dad yelled at him for leaving the house and going outside, but was anyone even watching him in the first place? How does your child leave the house and make it halfway to the city before you notice? This little bird looks like he weighs 5 pounds! He's gonna get kidnapped!!

His mom is obviously unstable and she stares at the wall all day. And his dad hates him for existing. So I guess no one was watching him?

His mom also doesn't really seem to care when Keigo gets yelled at, hit, and kicked either. She just kinda stares at the wall. Then when her and Keigo become homeless and start living in a train station she guilt trips him into stealing for her. Like Really??

HE GOT INTO A CAR ACCIDENT TOO! You sent your child out to steal for you and he literally got into a car accident. He managed to save everyone involved but still, are trying to get your son hit by a truck? This is why I have so many mixed feelings about Tomie.

#4) Being held hostage in his own home.

This one is self explanatory. Keigo got hit in the face just for going outside. He was held hostage in his home for so long that he didn't even know heroes existed. And this is a society where heroes are everywhere. I'm sure it was a lonely childhood, kinda hard to make childhood friends when you get beaten just for leaving the house.

#5) Whatever the fuck "rough training" was.

I know we haven't seen Keigos "rough" training yet. Horikoshi only went into a little bit of detail about it when he mentioned that the commission taught Hawks negotiation skills as a kid. And then theres that one image in the Season 4 outro where Keigo has a blindfold on as a child during training.

But I still would like to know more.

Why would you put a child through "rough" training, strip him of his name, and tell him it's all because he's gonna become a "special hero" right after you've pulled him out of an extremely abusive situation. Like, you aren't gonna wait a bit? Preferably until he's a teenager? Not gonna give him therapy or something?

Isn't pulling a child out of an abusive situation and putting them through "rough training" kinda like transfering them from one abusive household to another?

LET THE BOY REST! LET THE KID BE A KID. YOU ONLY HAVE ONE CHILDHOOD AND HE'S ALREADY MISSED OUT ON MOST OF HIS!!

The training can wait.

If you want help him and support his family, do it out of the kindness of your heart and not because you think he'd be a useful hero.

I honestly don't know how this "training" went for Keigo, but considering that he doesn't currently have the best relationship with the HPCS . . . Well I don't know. All I know is that he never really seems too happy around people from the commission. He doesn't seem to agree with any of their ideologies either.

Honestly I just want him to find peace!

Based on what we've seen so far, (*cough* especially from the Todoroki family *cough*) you really shouldn't be training a child to become a hero in the first place. The training can start as a teenager if someone chooses to train.

Look at the way you massacred my boy! Give the kid a break for fucks sake!!

And these are just the early years. Don't get me started on everything else ✋🙄

[astromaki]

part 2 of 5000 $ - shoto todoroki x fem!reader (1597 words)

part 1. (previous)

tw ; minors dni, angst, nsfw, toxic relationship, mention of cheating and breakup, shoto is a complete bastard here

you finally did it.

you broke up with him a week ago. for real this time, not like the last hundred times you'd yelled at him that he was a heartless jerk. just so he could get you into bed the second you calmed down.

no, you threw him in the trash the day after that party. by message, but it was a start.

even your social media status had gone from 'in a relationship' to 'single <3', you'd even reinstalled tinder, and accepted follow requests on instagram from those boys in the same class as you in college.

and shoto seemed to have abandoned you too. no news from him, and you hadn't even run into him on campus in the last few days.

so why did it still hurt to think about him ? why did your lips refuse to say his name ? and why the fuck did your sheets still smell like him despite the many machines ?

so you could tell that you felt a little joy when you saw this message.

he had sent you this two days ago.

and it's been two days, you've been wondering if it was a good idea to see him again right away.

never mind, you were already at his door. besides, you didn't have to talk to him, just take back what belonged to you and go home. it couldn't go wrong ? right ? it's ridiculous, you even had to convince yourself now.

you knocked, once, twice, three times. you could hear someone inside. and you knew he didn't have a roommate. this rich kid could buy the whole building if he wanted.

fuck. you just had to go in and get your stuff, and it's like you were never there. he wouldn't notice you were there.

you opened the door, and were surprised to see a second pair of shoes at the entrance next to shoto's sneakers. which is more like a pair of rather feminine shoes, pumps.

a strange feeling made you shiver. it wasn't like you to track down your exes, but you don't remember seeing a new girl with shoto on social medias.

slight, imperceptible sighs escaped from his room a little further into the apartment. bed squeaks, that male growl you knew all too well.

fuck. fucking hell.

you knew what it was, you knew what those noises were, who was causing them. why he had asked you to come and get those so-called forgotten things.

and yet you still walked to his room, your brain screaming at you to turn around and stay away from that boy and his unmitigated evil. your heart telling you the opposite, to keep going to find out if he still cared about you. no matter how small, you wanted to know, you had to know, if you ever meant anything to him.

or if you were just a joke, that he could throw a little money around.

"shoto, fuck, yes, right there oh fuc-"

you felt tears welling up in your eyes when you finally saw shoto vulgarly fucking a girl in that room, where you used to spend all your evenings.

but that wasn't the worst part. it was that he had taken your best friend to bed, ochako.

"you're so fucking good, i -" he says in a low voice.

he had already created that crack in your heart. but now ?

his blue and gray eyes finally met yours, his gaze was nothing but arrogance and contempt. the only things he ever felt for you. and even though he was fucking your best friend, busy pacing back and forth, he had the nerve to look you up and down. a smirk lit up his face.

and that asshole finally said the three words he never disdained to say to you.

"i love you ochako," he finally said, looking you straight in the eye. you're the best sex i've ever had. "

his words were spoken clearly, slowly, so that they were articulate for you to hear. a mixture of anger, and sorrow suddenly overtook you

as if you had come back to reality, you suddenly left the room. your steps were disordered, you had lost all your balance, gravity seemed to be slightly stronger. your hands dropped some objects on your way.

what was wrong with you? why?

ochako had finally noticed you after her orgasm, and weakly called out your name, as if begging you to come back would make things better. that he was cheating on you was one thing, but with her ? the one who had pushed you to leave him?

you could hear heavy footsteps following you down the hallway to the front door. and a muscular hand grabbed your wrist to turn you around in one simple motion.

obviously, who else ?

"so you just walk into people's houses without knocking now?"

wow, how did he manage to make you hate him a little more every time he opened his mouth ?

"stop it. don't mess with me. you sent me a message to come in today to get my stuff." your voice was firm.

his face was as haughty as ever, yet he already seemed a little more natural and relaxed than the other times. you would have found it attractive if it wasn't after a romp with your best friend.

"ah, that's right. and so it's okay? you got everything? "

his deceptively kind voice made you want to scream. to take anything and throw it at him. he still had this annoying habit of driving you crazy even after you'd broken up. you wanted to hurt him like he'd been hurting you for months.

but your shaky, broken voice didn't reflect your desires. you were about to cry.

"i don't understand why? why you're being so mean to me. i'm not stupid, shoto, i know that you invited me here today just to see you fuck her."

his face hadn't changed, nor had his eyes. he was glaring at you miserably. as usual.

"i was hoping we could talk if i came to your door so we could maybe work things out, get off to a good start." and it's true, that message he sent you had falsely given you false hope. and you had fallen off the deep end.

a slight sigh escaped his lips. that slight sigh that made the cup overflow.

"why do you care ? we broke up, right ?"he said it in such a carefree tone.

"fuk you shoto. fuck you. you don't even realize how fucking toxic you are! you throw money around to get what you want, you fuck with people and play with their feelings! you're a fucking asshole. and you're a lot like your father for someone who hates him deeply. "

your words of hatred and anger that you had been building up for weeks, for fucking months, poured out on him like a lava flow.

it was mean, it was sincere, and it hurt shoto. it hurt him to see that he had done too much this tim.

his emotionless gaze watched you get angry, cry, push him, hit him, dry your tears that he couldn't tell if they were of melancholy or rage. he saw you push his hand away as he tried desperately to calm you down.

you couldn't see it, too busy screaming and drying your tears, but you managed to wring a sincere expression from shoto.

he was just panicking. he was panicking because he knew he had crossed the point of no return. that not even $5,000 or $10,000 or even $50,000 would bring you back.

his love, full of flaws, who never knew a healthy role model from his parents, would not be enough to make you stay. not to leave him alone.

because we know the cliché, the rich boy who didn't know how to love. didn't even know how to make the one person who always cared about his own selfish self, stay. but that was shoto though. he was that boy who only had toxic love to give.

but please don't leave him for good, he was begging you mentally.

if he had put his pride aside to express himself or even make you understand, maybe you wouldn't have left.

"i hate you shoto todoroki. i fucking hate you. but know that you'll end up alone, you and your stupid money. and i'll be the first to laugh. "

fuck fuck fuckfuckfuckfuck.

" i- y/n just wait- "

he didn't think you'd hate him so much. the young man knew he was just an asshole with a fat bank account. he just thought that by fucking your best friend he'd get you to come back to him, out of desperation, out of a desperate love.

he didn't think he would feel such a pressure on his chest when he saw you slam the door, leaving him alone in the apartment with your best friend and a big hole in his heart.

he didn't think he'd regret his actions. he was a rich guy who always wanted what he wanted, whether it was money or sex. so you were easy. right ?

he never imagined that he would miss your perfume, your exasperating smiles, that he would miss you.

you were barely gone, and he knew he would miss you.

a/n ; i've never written such a nasty shoto sorry 😟 kinda want to leave this story like this...

please lemme know what you thought about this second part, should i make a third one ? (+ reblogs are appreciated <3)

🔖 taglist; @deepestranchgoopdeputy @kizuatonoaiko

[mattsvn]

CHANCE BALL LOVE!

Pairing: Ushijima Wakatoshi x gn!reader

Genre: Meet ugly! strangers to lovers! Getting hit in the head with a volleyball!

Warnings: Blood, head injury, concussion, did I mention getting hit in the head with a volleyball? Food hehe, that's all.

WC: 2.4K

Summary: After being hit with a volleyball by the ace and U19 athlete, Ushijima Wakatoshi, you find yourself laying in the nurse's office, with a bag of ice on your head and a boy apologizing every two minutes for that terrible accident. As the times goes by, you realize that not only you were hit by a ball, but by destiny, and more important, love.

A/N: I'm so excited for this piece! This is a collab for HQHQ (now Anilysium!) The masterlist is here! I hope you like this piece! Reblogs are appreciated!

Life is made up of 90% causality and 10% coincidence.

That was what your mother used to say, with her hands covered with flour up to her elbows, while she prepared one of those delicious desserts. Possibly as a result of all her years perfecting her technique as a pastry chef, but, as in that, she considered that everything had to be planned, measured, and calculated.

On the other hand, your father was always talking about how fate made everything line up perfectly for things in his life to come in abundance, he would happily tell about the coincidences in his life, although the answer was always the same, a debate between the two of them as to what was the truth.

A skeptical pastry chef and a dreamy lawyer, a match made in heaven.

Whatever it had been, causality or causality, you never thought a hit of luck would be so...literal.

It was unusual for you to be in Shiratorizawa's volleyball gymnasium, if you had managed to get into such a prestigious high school it was because of the impeccable grades you always had, sports were not a priority.

You weren't afraid of balls, but, the way everyone was spiking the ball was about to cause you a headache, especially Ushijima Wakatoshi, the school's ace, one of the best athletes in the country.

"Why are we here, again?" you asked, your gaze wandering between the various players and the sound of balls hitting everywhere making the conversation feel distorted.

"Because they" one pointed out, to the rest of the girls looking around the court excitedly "want to see Semi Eita, the pretty boy with the grey hair" she gestured to the boy in the corner, slamming the ball to the ground unaware that they were watching.

"Ah" you replied, somewhat bored, grabbing your backpack and standing up. "Good luck with that, I have to get home early" you said, waving goodbye to everyone.

To leave, or at least, to do it in a faster way, the door that led out of the building, and through which you had to go through the court, was the best option, as it took longer to take the way inside the corridors. The only option as you made your way down the bleachers.

The only thing you heard, with your eyes glued to the ground, trying to go completely unnoticed was a "WATCH OUT!" that made you look up before you saw nothing but darkness.

"I don't know, Wakatoshi-kun, looks like you did kill her" a voice was heard in the distance, the light irritating your eyes if you tried to open them. Still, only because of your stubbornness, you tried to get up without anyone else's help.

"I don't think it's best if you stand up now" you heard a deeper voice, but you didn't know exactly where it was coming from.

"I'm fine" you whispered, placing a hand on where you assumed you had been hit with the volleyball, feeling a warm liquid staining it. It wasn't possible that a spike had cracked your forehead open, right?

Right?

"I'm fine, I have to go" as you stood up, opening your eyes, everything was spinning. An arm went around your shoulders, stopping you from falling back to the ground, firm, but at the same time gentle.

"You need to go to the infirmary, you're bleeding" the voice now seemed to be closer, a little more stable, but, no way did you feel you could even move without throwing up or passing out again, what the fuck had that hit been? Could someone hit someone that hard just with a serve?

The answer was yes, and the name, Ushijima Wakatoshi.

You barely felt it when, just like that, he lifted you off the ground, although it seemed that your body felt it. A piece of something, probably cloth or gauze stopped the bleeding. You kept repeating that at least they let you walk, that you were okay, even though, clearly, you had the symptoms of a concussion.

"Are you all right, can you tell me where you are?" questioned Ushijima, entering a room. You had finally managed to open your eyes and recover from the dizziness.

"I'm fine, we're at the high school" you whispered, looking at Ushijima for the first time.

Even if you had gone to games before, you had never seen that look on Wakatoshi's face, a mixture of fear and worry, accompanied by his pale face and a barely noticeable bloodstain on his shirt.

"You can wait outside, dear boy," said the nurse, slightly terrified by what had happened.

A couple of hours passed before they managed to let you go, after calling your parents and making sure you didn't leave the building unless you were accompanied. You didn't need stitches, and that was a huge plus, but still, you left the infirmary with a gauze pad on your forehead, some candy, and a chance to take the rest of the week off to rest, which wasn't such a bad outcome.

You closed the door behind you, looking sideways at Wakatoshi on the floor, who got up almost immediately, still looking scared, even his gaze lingered for a few seconds on the patch on your forehead, which reminded him of the fact that he had accidentally hit you with a volleyball while practicing his serves.

"How are you feeling?" he asked, looking disheveled, and as if he had done nothing more than wait in the hallway until everything was in order.

"Oh, don't worry, Ushijima-san, I'm fine" you assured, but it didn't seem to be enough for him.

"I'm so sorry, let me take you home to be sure you arrive safely" he asked, with his hands behind his back and his head slightly bent down, like a child discovered stealing the candy from the counter.

"My parents are here to take me home, don't worry" you assured, glancing sideways at the door, somewhat far away. "You can walk me to the car, if you like."

"Of course" he nodded, walking beside you. Up close he looked even taller than he was, his expression calm and his gaze fixed straight ahead, though, he seemed to have a doubt that would leave his lips at any moment "Would you allow me to walk you to school tomorrow?"

You looked at him with raised eyebrows, somehow, the sound of just both of your footsteps in the hallway was comforting, soothing. It wasn't awkward, or uncomfortable. Ushijma didn't believe in awkward silences, because to him actions said more than words, and, that a question shouldn't be answered right away. So, the way to the entrance was nothing more than waiting for an honest, and safe, answer.

"I got permission to miss classes for the rest of the week, in case the concussion gets complicated, because I have to rest" you began, letting again the calm silence take center stage for a couple of seconds. "Then I won't be back until Monday, but maybe you can come for dinner tomorrow?"

"If you accept that as my apology for hurting you, then by all means" he took the door, allowing you to leave before him, there was still a bit of a walk to the main entrance. "Although, I would like to cook"

"Oh, I didn't know you cooked," you smiled, looking up at him. Ushijima looked down, and, you could swear he was smiling too. "If that's what you prefer, I'd love to."

The rest of the walk was quiet, and calm. Ushijima said goodbye to you after introducing himself to your parents, and apologizing again. In the rearview mirror you saw him standing there, waiting until he didn't see the car to go home.

He was really worried, and it would probably take him a few days to stop being scared about what had just happened. He was even willing to be scolded by the coach for missing two days of practice, just to make sure everything was in order.

Likewise, even if it would be a whole day before you saw Ushijima, he decided to call you just before he went to bed. And at lunchtime, because doing it earlier would surely have woken you up. He didn't talk too much, he let you talk about how annoying the doctors at the hospital had been when you went to check that everything was okay, and all the boring time you spent there.

He called back as soon as he got out of school, to make sure the details of the dinner were ready, he would bring the food, and some dessert, and, you would bring the drinks. You had to convince him though, otherwise he would have bought everything, he would have even brought plates and silverware from his own house.

Wakatoshi took the job of bringing the food seriously, as much as he could buy anything on the way home, he decided to make something himself. The menu was simple, yakisoba, yukari rice balls with an egg on top of each dish. As for dessert, he decided not to risk it, and preferred to buy those box cakes that had been quite popular lately, and, some condensed milk truffles that Tendou gave him as a gift as, he assured, you would love them.

Your parents could be quite reluctant to invite a boy to the house, but, after proposing the idea that you could clean up the picnic table you had in the backyard, where there was a space convenient enough for them to peek in just a little to feel safe, they agreed almost immediately.

During the afternoon, the question you wanted to ignore came out of nowhere, could that be considered a date, and should you dress for the occasion? It didn't seem like anything would match a forehead injury, or that anything would hide it. The result ended up being something you would wear if you were going out with friends, simple, and appropriate for the sunny day out.

Ushijima arrived exactly at the appointed time, and, reluctantly from your parents, you opened the door without them intruding. Looking at him, you failed to understand the nervous feeling that traveled from your heart to the tips of your fingers, making them tremble. Standing with a bag in his left hand, his hair slightly tousled and a bouquet of flowers in the other. Yet another gesture of apology, right?

"Hi, I brought some flowers" he pointed out, extending them. Your hand gently brushing his as you took them, white roses with green accents that made the bouquet look incredibly elegant.

"I already told you that you didn't have to keep apologizing, Ushijima" you mentioned, taking the flowers. "We'll eat outside then you don't need to take off your shoes, but let me go get a vase."

"You look good today" he spoke out of nowhere, making you look at him even though you were already halfway down the aisle. "You look good in those clothes" he seemed to be trying to smile, but you weren't sure. You smiled anyway, grateful for the compliment.

You returned with the bouquet, which would now serve as a decoration for the picnic. You could feel the intense gaze of your parents even if they tried to hide when they peeked, or, according to them, "watched" that everything was in order.

"Are you feeling better then?" he asked, looking at how simply decorated the picnic table was but somehow looked incredibly cozy, with perfect tree shade.

As was now usual, Wakatoshi didn't talk more than usual, at least not at first, he wanted to hear about how you were feeling, and how many days you would be out of school, although you assured him that you would be back to your activities by next Monday, and that, your friends would take care of sending you the homework you needed. Then the questions about him began.

You learned a lot, how he learned to play volleyball at a young age, his interest in cooking but his almost zero ability to make desserts. My mother could make some, you laughed, drinking some cranberry juice in a wine glass, your father's idea. He told you about his new interest in plants, and his father's work out of the country. Even some good anecdotes about the volleyball team.

Dessert was something completely different, by that time, she started to excitedly explain his last game, and what it was like to be in the Olympics. Although it wasn't as noticeable, you could tell in the way his lips curved into a slight smile as he tried to find the right words to define how he felt.

Reluctantly, and after offering to do the dishes, you said no, keeping the bento boxes with the promise that you would bring lunch on Monday for both of you, and now a wide smile on his face, even when he had to go home.

The following Monday came terribly slow, with the only thing that made it better being that Ushijima had not stopped her constant calls, the day possibly delayed by dark clouds heralding torrential rain.

"You don't have to keep apologizing anymore, look, even the wound has healed" you said, to Ushijima who was standing at the entrance, now with a box of the truffles you had liked so much, and which he had now made.

"I know. But I'd really like to walk with you at school" he smiled. "If you'll let me.

"I'd love to."

Life is made up of 80% causality and 20% chance, and, although you wouldn't want to repeat the literal hit of luck you received, you hadn't wanted it any other way.

Going to the gym because your friends wanted to see a cute boy on the volleyball team, having to leave early because you had things to do at home, leaving through the door you had to walk through on the court, getting hit in the head with a volleyball, only to end up walking to school with him, fingers barely brushing, a tender kiss on the cheek before he left.

Eating now inside the house, holding hands, a kiss on the corner of the lips. Waiting in the bleachers for practice to end, a number one jacket covering you from the rain.

The worst way to get to know each other, and, somehow, it seemed you were made for one another.

[heejojo]

Love Isn't Beautiful But With You It Was

✰ summary: y/n and niki's journey from being enemies to friends to much more than that.

✰ pairing: Niki x fem!reader (and a Jay apperance)

✰ genre: fluff, angst, enemies to childhood friends to lovers

✰ warning: a few sad scenes but I'm not sure they'll be too bad! death

✰ word count: 1.8k (the most so far tbh)

a/n: this is my first fanfic so please leave comments about what should be improved. if you have any requests feel free to leave them! it's past 12am now and I need to sleep but I hope you have a nice day!

prompt gotten from @moonlight-chi77 thank you!

“Love isn’t beautiful but with you it was”

Life disappears in the blink of an eye, but the memories created and the human connection formed does not. The memories created are embedded in our hearts and follow us through different paths of life. Whether those memories are good or bad, they become something we reflect on in later moments.

Nishimura Riki couldn’t exactly remember the first time he met you but all he knew was that he had never hit off with someone the way he did with you.

September 2012

Although Niki couldn't pinpoint the exact date you guys started talking, he knew it was in September of 2012. He knew at first he disliked you and wanted nothing to do with you because you had stolen his spot on the swings.

“That's my spot, I told Jay I was going to stay here forever,” he said while his friend who was behind him nodded enthusiastically, backing him up.

“Your name is not on it and you didn’t buy it so why should I leave?” you asked him without coming down because you got there fair and square.

“I called dibs on it,” he said while puffing out his chest.

“Dibs are for babies,” you say while continuing to swing. “I’m not a baby,” he retorts.

“If you say so, then why are you wearing a Talking Tom T-Shirt?” you ask and his face begins to turn red. “It's cool, isn't it Jay?” he nudges his friend asking him for support. “Cool man, girls just suck” Jay responds and they both leave. “At least I dress myself!” you yell at their retreating figures

After that day, Niki made it his mission to disturb you every day and never wore his Talking Tom shirt again after that day.

August 2016

“Niki!!” you screamed as you felt another water balloon hit your leg. At this point, your entire body was soaked. The young boy continued to laugh and run as you chased him. You were beginning to regret spending your summer break with him when you could be watching TV instead. Eventually, you give up chasing the blond-haired boy and go into the house to dry off. Thirty minutes later, Niki comes in with a bottle of orange juice as a form of apology. You snatch it without further thought and drink it. Looking up at him after you finish drinking it, you both burst into a fit of laughter. “You’re lucky I love food,” you say. Maybe spending the summer with him wouldn't be so bad.

December 2018

Your crush on Niki was painfully obvious to everyone but him. Your friends teased you, his friends teased you yet when you were together you denied it with so much vigour. Niki had liked you for a few months now. Everyone was enjoying the slow burn that was going on between the two of you; the soft glances across the room, the way you always looked for each other among crowds, the way he knew where your secret birthmark was even though your close friends didn’t.

It was the way you complimented each other that made everyone cringe and aw at the same time. The jacket you got him for his birthday was his most prized piece of clothing and the only person he let touch it was his mum. This year though, you gathered enough courage and told him how he meant to you and how you were content with being just friends even if it hurt a little. But you weren’t expecting Niki to say he felt the same way, even more so. Your friends heaved a sigh of relief and choruses of ‘Finally’ were echoed.

It felt good being with someone.

January 2019

Everyone argued with people they loved right? Your parents did, the old lady that sells fruit and her boyfriend did so you and Niki weren’t an exception. After being childhood friends for so long you’d think you could trust each other enough to talk about the things that bothered you but he refused to, claiming that he didn’t want you to see him in a different light and how it would hurt his pride. You would tell him that no one knew him more and cared about him the way you did. At times, you’d let it go not wanting to push him but that day you couldn’t take it.

“We need to talk. Why have you been avoiding me these past few days?” you asked him.

“I’ve just been busy” he replied.

“No, you’ve been avoiding me. I know you well enough to know when you're hiding something” you said.

He wouldn't budge, he never did especially when you cornered him like this. He started to get irritated and said, “I said I’ve been busy so forgive me if I can’t give you attention all the time. Not all of us are as clingy as you” You winced; it was your fault for pushing him to the edge like that. Nevertheless, you wouldn't give up. “ I just want you to say how you feel and what bothers you. I’d never look at you in a different light and you know that. You might want to be strong but it’s okay to show some sort of emotion, it doesn’t make you weak rather it makes you look like someone that acknowledges what is wrong and doesn’t try to ignore the problem or solve it on their own” you comforted him. As the words entered his ears, you could see the walls surrounding his heart crumbling. “It’s okay to ask for help or just to rant to someone. Even if we won’t be able to provide an immediate solution, it should help” you added taking a few steps forward and grabbing a hold of his hands. You squeezed them tightly.

“I...I’m just scared you’ll leave once you see the not so perfect side of me” he managed to say. “I will stay with you, why don’t we make the best of everything without worrying about the future?” you asked while smiling. He returned it and pulled you in for a hug. “Thank you, truly,” he said and you smiled under his embrace.

After a few minutes you spoke up, “Oh yeah, Niki?” you called his attention and he hummed in response. “Don’t ever shout at me like that again, I can deck you and you know it” you said.

“Got it, boss. Sorry for being a jerk”

June 2020

You usually went on diets and exercised a lot but you were losing weight at an extreme rate and you weren’t even on a diet. Niki was worried but you brushed it off telling him it was stress from school but it got worse. You found it difficult for you to balance yourself, you felt nauseated, getting even more frequent headaches and being tired all the time so Niki decided that enough was enough and took you to the hospital. Neither of you had expected the result of the scans that were run.

“I’m sorry but there is a tumour in your brain,” the doctor said. The air left your lungs. “You can choose to get the surgery and live in the hospital for 8 months or live with the tumour for 3 months” he continued. You thanked him and left the hospital. The elephant in the room was very much alive and neither one of you wanted to address it. Did you want to stay in the hospital for the rest of your life or did you want to say with your loved ones? You thought that they would go through and that won’t be worth it.

“Niki” you called out.

He looked at you with a sad smile and just pulled you in for a hug, careful not to hurt you. “Do you want to tell your parents?” You nodded. You couldn’t just leave without saying anything. Picking your jacket, Niki drove you to your parents house.

“I just wanted you guys to know, I couldn’t just leave without saying anything,” you said with your eyes cast downwards. You couldn’t bear to look at your mom who was already crying or your dad who was blaming himself even when it wasn’t his fault or your sister who was basically your best friend. Niki had given you guys privacy but you knew it was just an excuse for him to be with his own feelings.

“I’m going to stay close to home in the meantime so I can be closer to you guys,” you said. Your eyes were already becoming glossy with tears. You inched towards your mom, taking her hand in yours and said, “You did an amazing job of being my mom and I love you so much”. Moving to your dad, you said “You did a good job of protecting me so don’t think otherwise. Let’s make all the memories we want to now without any regrets”. At that, your sister burst into tears “I… I can’t bear to lose you” Your heart clenched. “I can’t bear to lose you too” She continued crying. Your mom wiped her eyes and said, “From today, live the way you want to. Eat what you want and do what you want.” From the corner of my eye, I saw Niki staring watching the whole scene. After an hour, I stood up and went home with Niki. The car ride was a long and awkward one. When we got home, we just slept hugging each other.

Starting tomorrow I was going to live.

July 2020

The pain is getting worse but the smiles on my family and friends faces are enough to keep me going. I wrote letters and got gifts for them. Niki looks at the calendar every day, I can’t tell him to stop because I can tell he’s hurting so much. Why can’t I just be okay for everyone?

August 2020

The time comes faster, Niki and I went on a getaway for a few days. He deserved a break from everything that has been going on.

September 2020

I never thought I'd die as silly as that sounds. I asked my parents and sister to leave when I got to the hospital. Niki refused to leave and stayed there till I took in my last breath. He kept crying begging me not to go and how he’d do anything.

“Does it hurt a lot?” he asked between sniffles

“No it doesn’t, it just feels like a needle” it hurt like a truck.

“Liar”

I chuckled and held his hand till I couldn’t anymore. “I love you’’ I say as the lights fade.

╔═*.·:·.✧ ✦ ✧.·:·.*═╗

Dear Nishimura Riki,

When you see this, it means I’m already gone. First of all, don’t beat yourself up too much. I could write for ages about how much I love you but now that I need to, my mind goes blank. You’ve done so well for putting up with me, hats off to you. You might not want to but move on, even though id like you to remember me; let your heart heal and be happy.

Take care of yourself and don’t skip any meals. Eat well and be happy, make sure you visit the places we never got to visit and enjoy yourself. Live life the way you want it every day. Be nice to people and smile more.

Thank you for all the happy memories, my love, I’ll be forever grateful for you. You made my life colourful and worth living.

Love isn’t beautiful but with you it was.

Yours truly,

Y/N.

[liptonsbabe]

Chains of a family [B.W]

Bill Weasley x Grant! Reader

Chapter 1, Chapter 2

Summary: Molly knows about the reader’s relatives and she’s not so sure to put her trust in a girl that had just betrayed her own family

Word count: 1.9K

Warnings: Swearing

A/N: Hi! i’m so happy that you guys liked this thing! thank you so much for your support and, again, if you want to keep reading this let me know. Same note as ever, english not my mother language, so tell me if something’s is wrong.

Chapter 2: Not your family

The next morning turned out to be quieter than you imagined.

You slowly got out of bed and looked at everything around you noticing how quaint Bill's old room was. The ceiling was lined with grainy wallpaper with stacks of photographs of Quidditch players hanging from the reeds that moved from side to side, simulating the playing field; the right side of the room had a huge hole behind the small stool that tried to hide it, and from that hole a small garden gnome was sleeping peacefully with a small piece of cloth on top of his head. You stood up, walking towards the huge window that gave you a beautiful view of the Weasley's garden that at that moment was covered by a thin layer of drizzle that had fallen during the night.

Molly's fruit trees gleamed under the faint rays of the sun and you saw how a doxy from between the leaves poisoned Mrs. Weasley's apples, causing them to fall from the tree branches in a thick black mass with a foul smell coming out of it. You shook your head, excited to witness a very different way to wake up.

Even though several minutes have passed since you woke up, the house continued to remain in a strange silence that made you think that the family had decided to leave the burrow with the intention of buying more supplies or something like that. You knew that Bill wasn’t at home precisely for his obligations within the Order, so you didn’t worry about looking for him around the room, so you decided that a better option was going down to the dining room and know what was happening.

As you went down the spiral staircase, you cursed in a whisper when you forgot to put on your slippers before leaving the bedroom cause the floor was so cold that you slipped a couple of times. Back in the days, when you were still welcome in your parents' house, you had many servants who did all the things for you - putting on your shoes as soon as you woke up was one of those things - but now that your life had changed so much, you assumed that you would have to adapt and start taking care of your own needs.

Your curious eyes roamed the walls covered in family photos that caused a big warmth in your chest. In each of those photographs, all of Molly's children appeared along with their father, smiling for the camera and sending effusive greetings. A pic was hanging at the fireplace were Molly and Arthur were carrying a small white bundle crying his lungs out. You assumed it was Bill as his parents seemed too young back then and even as a small baby, you could recognize those tantrum features anywhere.

A giggle escaped your lips when you noticed a funny sequence from that same photo in which, even with Bill crying in his mother's arms, his father tried to carry him for a moment to calm him down, however the baby's cries didn’t stop. The baby was so annoyed that he ended throwing up  the milk ration that he must have had before the photo session on his father's neat shirt.

You laughed because you knew that William's impertinence was something he had carried with him for several years now.

"Bill hates those photos." You jumped in your place scared to see Molly standing behind you. Your cheeks turned red “He says that it’s embarassing but i think that’s nonsense. He was an adorable baby”

"he was," you answered, looking anywhere but into Molly's shrewd eyes. "but I guess displaying them in the fireplace isn’t the right thing to do."

“Is it not?

"No, they should be at the front door where everyone can see them”

Molly giggled as you watched the sequence of photos over and over again. A silence settled between you, but surprisingly it was not an awkward silence, but one that was allowing you to create a bond that neither of you expected. Mrs. Weaslsey brought up a rag, wiping it around the corners of the photo from the dust.

"Arthur and I had to save up for months to take those pictures," she mentioned wistfully, "we just had Bill and it seemed like a good idea to welcome him into our family with a gesture like that. Arthur was new in the ministry and wasn't earning too much, but we had that quirk and decided we could afford to skip certain things to pay for the pictures. It cost us ten galleons and it still took us four months to gather them”

“Oh” You didn't know what to say, but you just kept looking at the photograph feeling a bit uncomfortable. You never had those problems at home because your family was insanelly rich thanks to the inheritance in life that your grandfather Tim had left to his son and later to his grandchildren. Even the descendants of your grandfather's servants came to work in your house, reason enough for you and your siblings to grow up with no sense of responsibility other than your own wishes. Molly sighed remembering those times when life seemed to be easier.

"So when Bill asked me to remove it from the fireplace, I refused. He doesn't know how hard it was to raise that money, but I think he has nothing to be ashamed of, he was too adorable!

"I don't doubt it for a second, Mrs. Weasley."

"You can call me Molly," she said, walking back to the kitchen where you continued watching the way the pans moved back and forth preparing breakfast. You were not very good at cooking - in fact, you had never cooked before- however, that didn’t stop you from offering your help. So you took a pan, placed it on the stove, and decided that you would find a way to make a good mountain of strawberry-filled pancakes just like your dear nanny did. Molly observed you carefully. "I think that now that you are living with us it is appropriate to have a more cordial treatment.My son told me a lot about you”

“Just the good things, i hope”

“Kind of” You stopped mixing ingredients to look at her carefully” He told us a bunch of marvelous things about you and how you two met. Actually, what worries me the most is what he didn’t tell us”

And there was the recrimination you were waiting for. You were aware that it had to arrive sooner or later, however, you would have been grateful that it did it when Bill were by your side to give you the opportunity to defend yourself properly. You cleared your throat uncomfortably, knowing that what Molly needed to hear from your own lips was which family you came from. You continued your task with the pancakes, turning out as bad as you expected.

"I'm sorry it turned out this way, Mrs. Weasley."

"Molly," he corrected.

"Molly" you smiled slowly "But believe me when I tell you that it was me who asked William not to mention anything about my last name or where I come from. I know that in this case, with the war above our heads, it is necessary to be certain of the people who enter your family and I apologize for that, it's just ... Bill is very important to me” Molly's eyes narrowed “Since we met ... I have found a home in him and well, all that feels when someone is in love. "Mrs. Weasley shook her head, understanding the feeling." I have experienced the rejection before. When people know that Tom Riddle is my family ... they run away in fear, curse my family and even walk away from us, as if sharing a blood bond makes us as evil as he is.

“And it’s not like that?” Molly asked with a hand on her neck. She didn’t want to be like the others and judge you without knowing the full story, just as she had promised Bill the night before that she would, but it was so difficult not to remember the death of his brothers by Voldemort’s hands and to pretend nothing had happened in the past. You sighed because the eggs you cracked on the bowl got mixed with their own shell “ I've heard of the Grants before, they're all Death Eaters, including your siblings!”

“It is difficult to have to choose a side  when you don’t have your own convictions”

"And you have it?"

You looked at Molly in pain. Of course you expected those reactions from Bill's mother, she was within her right to be upset that her oldest son never told her that he was in a relationship with a girl who seemed to have the most fucking powerful and evil wizard in the world as a great-uncle. No, Molly wasn't mad, she was deadly angry, she felt like she was bursting!

Her hands became fists and without knowing how, you found yourself between the wall and Molly's big arms from one second to the other. The pancake batter was forgotten, as was the woman's promise to treat her son's girlfriend in a good way.

"How is it possible ..." Molly questioned in an agitated voice, pressing your arms against the wall, "... that a single deer leaves the nature of its own herd?" How can you ensure that one rotten apple even in a gold container doesn’t rot the others?”Your breath caught at the questions of the woman in front of you. Once again, you were aware that your presence wouldn’t be good news to them, but at least you hoped they understood your motives before judging you “Explain to me, (Y/ N) Grant, when have you seen a pig away from his equals?”

Your words caught in your throat at Molly's fierce question. Bill had talked a lot about the temper of his mother. Even if she could be really grumpy at times, she was in general a very sweet, pleasant and maternal woman with everyone; however, you didn’t fit into that generality because it seemed that the woman was determined to kill you with her own hands.

"If my presence bothers you so much, then you shouldn't have let Bill and I to stay here."

“He's my son! All I want for him is to be happy, and that's why I don't understand what he managed to see in you”

"Maybe the same thing you saw in your husband." Molly's lips twitched in anger, but you didn't stop. You hoped that she would at least understand what your words meant, because that would make it easier for both of you to try at least get along better, even if Molly seemed not to want to do it under any circumstances. How is it that this haughty little girl dared to compare herself with her dear and wonderful husband? "I'm sorry, but I don't think this conversation is going to take us anywhere."

"If someone betrays his own family ..." Molly stopped you before you walked out the front door. The others got down the stairs, seeing the scandal formed in the kitchen “The rest of us can't expect too much, can we?

Your eyes blured.

[boop-le-snoot]

PARTY FAVOURS I CHAPTER 31

First time reader click here

it's a mental breakdown *off-key kazoo*. One (1) incident of physical abuse from a parent. And Stephen Strange arc begins opening. Kind of angsty, but more of a filler chapter to resolve the parents-suck thing.

A couple of days was all it took for me to get back on my feet... Figuratively speaking. Neither Bruce nor Tony was particularly excited about me being up and about, I was carried to my desired destination point by one or the other on most occasions. Physically, my body grew tired very easily - I took a lot of sporadic naps throughout the day, more often than not falling asleep in someone's arms. Nobody minded, really - even Loki, who wasn't a touchy-feely person by any means, relented and acted as a body pillow for me when we crashed on the common room couch to catch up with the TV show episodes I'd missed.

Tony was very obviously on the verge of a nervous breakdown. During the few hours I had spent being chased by the Cursed Box Demon in my nightmares, all the leads towards the contractor proved to be cold. Natasha was the most irritated of them all - a late-night talk with Clint through the vent above my room revealed that she took it as a personal insult, unprepared for a simple merc to be so good at evading the world's most notorious spy.

Hulk kept taking over Bruce's body - eyes shining fluorescent green - at the times we were together, periodically clutching me to his chest with clumsy but careful movements. I pitied the mercenary should he encounter my gentle scientist - I didn't think Bruce would even attempt to hold back Mean Green. They seemed to have achieved some sort of symbiosis those days, switching between the two personalities in one body almost effortlessly. Circumstances aside, I was very happy that the tension and the persistent internal conflict inside Bruce had almost disappeared.

What made me upset was Strange. The sorcerer was behaving, well, strangely. He began avoiding all of us - his excuses of helping the search for the merc were flimsy, and Wong's long, deep sigh, when asked about the sorcerer's state of mind, spoke volumes. I suspected Stephen was either seething with anger or drowning himself in the sea of guilt; I had a hunch he was similar to Tony in a way that he hid his vulnerability behind an impenetrable wall of malice and sarcasm and dry wit.

Perhaps I was wrong. But the pent up frustration resulting from the conflict between my overactive brain and my uncooperative body had to blow - and my mother was the fire to my already short fuse. Somehow, she got ahold of the information that I was hurt indirectly because of the actions of the Avengers - and she had called the first available phone she found, which meant Pepper Potts got an earful of vitriol regarding Stark Industries, SHIELD, Tony, and everyone else, including my father. Stoic as she was, Pepper took it all with grace, replying politely to my mother until she hung up on the redhead.

Pepper placed an urgent call to Coulson immediately after that, making the already uncomfortable situation spiral into something truly disgraceful. It ended with strict orders for me to return home - not that anyone besides me and Coulson knew about it. I was a legal adult, I could choose to stay in the tower and my mother was told so on numerous occasions... Knowing her, I was well aware she wouldn't be above storming Tony's home with a small army of her lawyer friends.

Inwardly seething, melting with the anger sitting in the pit of my stomach like a sharp piece of ice, I managed to convince Tony to have Happy escort me home at the guise of gathering more necessities. Tony, being Tony, offered me to buy anything and everything I needed, but relented under my puppy-eyed pleading. It was getting harder and harder to lie to any of my men, the weight of it settling unpleasantly bitter on top of my already foul mood.

Happy grumbled in displeasure at being tailed by a nondescript black SUV - I knew SHIELD would have eyes on me 24/7 now, at least until they catch the rogue mercenary - but seemed to be happy at my general state of relative wellness in his own... Happy... way. Five-second side-grin and "Glad you're up and about, Princess," was probably the most I was going to get from the man who's nickname contradicted his personality. In my humble opinion, he should've been called Brick instead. He was built like a shit house, too.

The moment I stepped into the living room, wearing Wanda's spare sweats and Tony's hoodie, I took a slow look around the room and immediately knew this was it. Most of my anger had receded, courtesy of finally being able to get out of the tower and do something, but the ice in my stomach persisted. The smell of whiskey and cigarettes hit me like a wall, news playing on the TV doing very little to dissolve the viscid, tense silence.

"Sit down," My mother instructed me in the tone of voice she used on people in the courtroom - convicts, people who knowingly broke NDAs.

"I don't think so," I replied, refusing to give in to her bullying. I was being absolutely reckless, I knew it, and still it didn't stop me from standing up for my men. Logically speaking, it could have happened to me anyway, Avengers or not. The cursed box came along long before I'd even met Peter Parker or any of his rag-tag superhero friends.

"Fine," She turned around, steely eyes leveled on me. I was but a speck of dirt under her nails - for the first time in my life, I felt terrified of my mother. I knew what she was capable of. "Listen well, daughter of mine. I'm going to only repeat myself once," She started in that deceptively calm tone of hers. "You are to stop mingling with Stark and his... Company. Immediately. I do not want to hear any more of that Parker boy, either. You will not destroy your future and our family's legacy over some fling with a man twice your age. This little game has gone long enough and it's time for you to get back to reality."

The more she spoke, the higher my eyebrows rose. I was supposed to take orders from my own mother now? Something thin, something thin and crackling with electricity within me just snapped - like a live wire. The hairs on my nape stood up, goosebumps appearing all over my skin. "And what if I do not?" I asked, just as quietly.

I was not prepared for her reaction. One second, she was sitting on the couch and the other - my cheek was burning and my mother was standing over me, breathing the stench of alcohol and tobacco right in my face. I saw the whites of her eyes. "Then you are no daughter of mine. I did not raise you to be someone's cumrag and all this play-pretend scientist shit had to have ended in middle school. I hoped you'd grow up but apparently, you insist on being a baby," She was full-on screaming in my face, so rabid she was shaking.

All I could think of was... How wrong she was. How wrong she would be, her sad little world broken when she finds out just exactly how much I'm capable of. Long gone were the days where I timidly questioned my scientific contributions; thanks to my men - the same men she'd hated so much - I knew my value. I knew I could achieve the things that I wanted.

"If that is your choice, you have thirty minutes to get your shit and get lost. I will not have a whore of a daughter living under my roof," I had missed a good part of her rant; most likely, it consisted of nothing but meaningless insults anyway. After she'd finished, she gave me a shove towards the stairs.

It didn't bother me as much as it should, I think. My cheek smarted and somewhere deep inside, I knew that the eerie calm that had settled over me wasn't normal - on the surface, I felt only relief. The things I suspected all along, finally came to light - she didn't even perceive me as a human being, I was no more than a means to her end. A tool. A thing.

The waterworks started when I frantically shoved most of the shit I could fit in my three suitcases. Upset as I was, my scatterbrain did me a favor that time and I gathered most of the important things. Notebooks full of my research - projects that my mother had called a child's game, projects that could be patented in a week, add a tweak or two. With sudden clarity, I realized I needed none of her money. None of her... At all. In short, I was emotionally all over the place and at the end of it... None of it made sense.

I threw the credit cards with her name on them on the coffee table as I hauled out my suitcases, not sparing the bitch a glance. She was equally quiet, boring into my back with those steely eyes of hers. I felt my skin peel under her stare. In my distraught state, hauling and dumping the suitcases in my car was quick work. Detaching the house key and tossing the last things that connected me to her house on the floor at her feet was a spur of the moment decision; my mother was right, to some extent, and I still had childish tendencies. "You had no right to call yourself my mother in the first place. All you were was an egg donor with more money than you could make sense of. Enjoy your hoard, you damned dragon," I seethed, seeing her frozen in place with her arms crossed and chin held high.

Some part of me hoped she would apologize. That naïve, childish part - I knew my mother and I knew myself, and the trait that we shared was stubbornness. I sped out of the estate without ever looking back, driving aimlessly for a while until the honking coming from drivers around me began reaching alarming levels of volume; tears began flowing down my face at some point, all but obscuring my vision. I parked in the nearest place I could find, in front of a Waffle House out of all places.

Crying in a Waffle House parking lot, how pathetic was that. Logically, I knew at least five people had my back: Tony and Bruce, who surprisingly loved me back; Loki, who had become strangely clingy after my declaration - clingy in the best way. Together with Wanda and Peter, they made my heart warm and my eternally racing brain feel calm and safe.

I called my dad, he didn't pick up. I don't know what I expected of the man, but any and all remnants of my respect for him shattered, breaking into tiny little pieces as I helplessly banged my fists against the steering wheel in a fit of desperate rage. One look in the mirror and my already ashen complexion was made worse by red, puffy eyes and the blooming bruise on my cheek where my mother had slapped me. It was the first time she'd laid a hand on me; I wanted to throw up.

I sat in the car until my breathing slowed; completely and utterly clueless as to what to do. I had no home of my own, three suitcases worth of clothes and research that was useless without a lab to run experiments in, my car, and a small trust fund in my name. The recent incident with the curse box had left me mentally drained as it was, now, I could surely say that my head was empty: no thoughts.

And throughout it all, Stephen's avoidance crossed my mind. As if the self-loathing wasn't enough, as if my own blood, the people who were supposed to care for me, rejecting and ignoring me wasn't strong enough of a blow... The sorcerer's avoidance raised more anger within me. I didn't know why but the thought of him made me want to cry and seethe once again.

Logic gone out of the window, I typed in the Sanctum's address into my GPS with shaking fingers, figuring that if he wasn't willing to do the legwork, I will come to him myself and clarify things for all at once. The mixed signals were just a cherry on top of my sky-high problem sundae.

I banged on the door and it flew open immediately, a surprised sorcerer quickly turning concerned and panicky, noticing my general state of appearance. I was still wearing the same clothes and my hair was in disarray, my face looking somewhere between a coke bender and a manic episode.

"You," I stated darkly, taking a deep breath. "You need to tell me what the fuck is wrong with me and reject me, so I can move on already. And you," I poked the man in the chest, right above the fancy eye-shaped necklace, "Need to stop it with the mixed signals. Stop wallowing in self-pity. Whatever you are doing, STOP IT," My voice involuntarily raised in pitch from all those emotional rollercoasters I've been on that day. "Get back to being normal. Let me fucking live," I finished my tirade as the man stared at me, frozen and open-mouthed.

"I..." He stammered, eyeing me with concern. "What in the multiverse happened to you? What..?" He was so confused, pulling out his phone the moment I bailed my fists.

"My mother threw me out, my father doesn't give a fuck about me, apparently I'm a cheap whore with delusions of grandeur. You're avoiding me and everybody is waiting for me to blow up," I screeched, all but vibrating in my spot. "This is me blowing up. I want answers!" I demanded.

Strange recoiled from me, frowning and pocketing his phone. A deep sigh left him, the kind that made his whole body sag. He ran a careful hand through his hair before looking away and slowly pulling me against his chest, the door shutting behind me and keeping the cold out. I hadn't even noticed I was freezing; my feet were wet from the NYC winter slush and mud.

Stephen's embrace was warm and tender; I wanted to lean into it and push him away at the same time. I was so messed up, it was embarrassing. There was nothing acceptable about this situation - I felt guilty as soon as his face fell.

"Jesus Christ, baby," He mumbled quietly. "Sounds like you had one hell of a day. Let's go, I'll put on some tea," He rubbed soothing circles on my back, something that confused me - I just had stormed in and dumped a bucket of bile right on top of his head.

"I should go," I mumbled, yet had no real strength to move away from him.

"You're not going anywhere. I suppose I need to explain myself, too," He sighed, and despite his obvious discomfort, picked me up, letting my limbs to wrap around his torso like a monkey. I was careful to keep my weight off his hands, even if the trip to the fireplace room was short. As soon as I was placed onto the couch and my shoes were removed, Cloaky drifted over from a dark corner, urging me to take off my soggy hoodie, and wrapped itself tightly around me.

Turns out, semi-sentient cloaks were quite warm.

THE TAG LIST IS NOW OPEN! @another-stark-sub ​ @mostly-marvel-musings  @vozit ​ @littlegasps ​ @pilloclock ​ @shereadsinquiet @downeyreads ​ @hermione-grangers-wife ​ @individualistfem ​ @sleep-i-ness @capbrie @lillsxd @agustdowney @dee-vn @justanotherblonde23 @fanngirl19 @persephonehemingway @softie-socks @schemefrenzy @letsby @cutenessloading @romeo-the-cactus @jelly-fishy-babie @mikariell95

[missmentelle]

Hello So i'm about to move from my parents house into an aprtment with my best friend and her friend as roomates. Do you've got any tips on how to make sure we won't get into huge fights, learning how to be responisble with the bugdet and getting to know her friend more? I am really stressed out about it but there's no going back now

It can definitely be nerve-wracking to live with people you aren’t related to for the first time, whether you are moving in with friends, your partner, or random roommates off the internet. I’ve lived with many, many people over the years - most of them strangers I found online - and the best advice I can give you to make the experience more pleasant is to set ground rules and boundaries early, and to make sure that everyone is on the same page. Even close friends can have very different expectations when it comes to sharing a living space, and the big things that you’ll probably want to figure out are:

Shared expenses. Are common staples like margarine, ketchup, salt, dish soap, toilet paper and cooking oil going to be shared by the entire household, or does everyone have to buy their own? If you are sharing stuff, can one person decide to just go buy stuff that’s running low and ask for reimbursement, or do you all need to agree in advance? My roommates and I used to keep a communal list on the fridge that one person would use to make our monthly Costco run, and we’d all just pay one-third of whatever the total ended up being. You might prefer a similar approach, or you might just take turns paying - ie “I bought the last pack of toilet paper, now you buy the next one”. It depends on your budget, and how good your housemates are about holding up their end of the bargain. If you are on a smaller budget than others, or if one roommate tends to use more than their fair share, it might be less of a headache if everyone just buys their own stuff. It’s also important to figure out how rent and bills will be paid - whose name are they in? Are you paying rent with three separate cheques, or is one person writing a cheque for the whole rent? If one person is writing a cheque, when do you need to give them your portion of the rent each month?

Shared household items and appliances. If everyone has brought some kitchen items - cups, mugs, plates, etc - into the household, is every item totally up for grabs, or are there any special items (like a favourite mug or expensive blender) that not everyone is allowed to use? How is fridge and pantry space going to be divided? Are everyone’s items just put into the cupboards together, or do you each get a cupboard for the things you individually own? Does anyone have any allergies or dietary restrictions - like Kosher or Halal requirements - that make it important for other people to not use their dishes? My roommates and I always put our kitchen stuff together in a jumble and just went with it, but I have friends with strict Kosher roommates who cannot share any kitchenware at all. Will you all chip in to buy shared items like a couch and coffee table, or will one person buy the item and own it by themselves? 

Chore schedule. Different people have different standards of cleanliness, and it’s important to figure out how often cleaning should be done so that no one feels like they’re living in a hovel. How quickly should people be doing their dishes - as soon as they’ve finished cooking? Within 24 hours? Or will you eat together and take turns washing dishes? How often will non-daily chores - like mopping the floors, cleaning the shower stall, and cleaning the oven - be done, and who will do them? My roommates and I used to block out 2-3 hours every Sunday as “cleaning time” when we would all deep-clean the apartment together, but you might prefer to have assigned individual chores that you can do on your own time. 

Guest policy. Overnight guests and partners are probably one of the biggest sources of tension in a roommate relationship. Namely, how long can you have a guest stay in the apartment with you before they need to start chipping in with the bills? Do you need to give the other roommates advance notice before a guest comes to stay for a while? How many days out of the month can someone’s partner stay over before they effectively become part of the household and need to pitch in with bills and chores? Is it even okay if someone’s partner is staying over constantly, or are you not cool with that at all? Are roommates allowed to give their partners a key to the apartment, or does everyone in the apartment need to be on board before that can happen? My roommates and I had a lot of long-term guests in our tiny Manhattan apartment, but that only went smoothly because everyone was 100% okay with having long-term guests, and we had a hard limit on how many days someone could stay out of the month before they needed to start putting money in our “toilet paper and dish soap” fund. 

Shower schedule. If everyone in the apartment is working on a similar Monday-Friday, 9-5 schedule (which is less likely to be the case these days, but still), it’s important to work out a basic schedule for who gets to shower when in the mornings. There is nothing that will make you want to flip out on your roommate quite like being late for work because they took a 45-minute shower when you needed to get ready. If you don’t each have your own ensuite bathroom, figure out who gets the bathroom when in the mornings, or decide who is going to shower at night to avoid conflict. 

Quiet hours. At what hours of the day is it inconsiderate for a roommate to be making noise or watching TV in common areas while people are trying to sleep? The answer may depend on the layout of the apartment, your individual work schedules, and how sensitive everyone is to noise. If you have roommates that work nights or are working from home during the day and need quiet for their conference calls, that’s something else to keep in mind. 

Breaking the lease. What happens if something comes up, and one person needs to leave before the lease is over? How much notice do they need to give the other roommates? Is it the departing roommate’s responsibility to find someone to take over their bedroom, or would the remaining roommates rather choose who they are living with? If you all pitched in to make a big purchase together - like a couch or a kitchen table - how will that work if one person leaves the lease? And how will the damage deposit be handled? The majority of leases I’ve been on have not had all the original roommates stay until the end, and it was important to plan for that in advance so that no one felt like they’d been tricked into living with someone new that they never agreed to live with. 

Above all, the secret to living with roommates is to communicate, and to try to be as considerate of others as you can. The way that you live and manage your finances directly affects your roommates’ quality of life, and everyone needs to put in some serious effort to make sure that everyone gets to enjoy the living space that they are paying for. The money stuff is especially important - talk to your roommates ahead of time about what costs you will be sharing and what costs you won’t, and make sure that you are setting aside the money you need for shared expenses each month so that no one is left holding the bag. And be sure to speak up if other roommates aren’t respecting your needs either - the occasional dirty coffee cup left in the sink or wine spilled on the rug is just a part of life and probably not worth fighting over, but if someone is consistently neglecting their chores, making huge messes, making lots of noise at night or failing to pay their fair share of household expenses, that’s a situation that you need to speak up about, so that you can all try to find a way to resolve the issue. Living with a friend, roommate or partner is all about finding a balance between accommodating other people and sticking up for yourself, and it’s a balance that will be become easier with time. 

It’s also important to find time to just enjoy hanging out with your roommates. Yes, living with other people can be scary and stressful, and there may be times when you’re ready to scream because someone ate your ice cream without permission and no one remembered to buy more toilet paper, but there will also be good times, especially if you are living with someone you are already friends with. Some of the best memories of my early 20s were just from hanging out with my roommates - like the time that we got drunk on cheap wine and painted some silly paintings because we couldn’t afford to decorate the apartment properly, or the time we got a huge box of breakfast food from the local diner and stayed up all night watching Game of Thrones, or the time we had to spend all day taking all our IKEA furniture apart in the lobby and carrying it up to our walk-up piece by piece because none of us could lift the boxes, and we barely made it up the stairs because we were laughing so hard. Being young and kind of broke and living with your friends can be a very fun time in your life, and it’s important to enjoy it - hang out together, do silly things, enjoy making mistakes because none of you have any real idea what you’re doing. Just because you have financial responsibilities and a chore chart doesn’t mean that you can’t have fun.  Best of luck to you! Miss Mentelle

[unsaid-stardust]

Home is Wherever I'm with You

Even though Luke gained some closure with his mom thanks to his brightest burning star, he still finds himself going to his parents’ house every now and then. 

He doesn’t exactly know why, there’s no thought process behind it. He just gets this pull in his chest every few days that seems to take him to his house. Maybe it’s a part of being a ghost. They do say that ghosts go where their soul latched onto and while Luke always thought his instrument was more attached to his soul than anything else, his house was still a part of him, even if it was small.

The visits didn’t make him feel the way they used to before ‘Unsaid Emily’ was finally seen by Emily. Luke still didn’t feel like he probably should, sad merely for the fact that he misses them. Instead, he felt numb. Which he guessed was better than leaving the house feeling like an anchor was lying down on his chest the way he did before. But, he’d rather feel something, anything. 

He just didn’t expect it to be betrayal.

Luke had poofed into the kitchen and found his way back onto the countertop. He didn’t remember when he started doing that, it was just a thing he always did, ever since he was little even. Alex and Reggie joke that he likes to feel tall, but in reality, Luke feels like it ironically grounds him. 

As he took in his surroundings, Luke realized that he heard music playing. The source? A record player that he had no idea his parents still owned; The Who blasting with “My Generation”. Soon, Luke spotted his father cooking dinner, shaking his head to the rhythm and singing along to the stutters in the chorus. 

Luke gripped the sides of the counter. He had never seen his dad like this. If he had, then maybe there would’ve been more incentive for Luke to stay. And then he wouldn’t be here the way he currently was. He wouldn’t be....no. Luke couldn’t start thinking like that again. Just because his dad was listening to music doesn’t suddenly mean that he had a secret passion for it. 

Luke’s thoughts were thankfully shed away as his mom’s laughter sounded the kitchen. 

“Well someone’s in a good mood,” She commented as she hugged her husband from behind. Mitch smiled brighter than Luke had seen during any of his visits.

“Yeah, I was sifting through some old boxes and found a bunch of our records. Made me think of Woodstock again,” He responded.

If Luke had a heart, he was pretty sure it would’ve stopped in that moment. Woodstock? Like the 3 day music festival that was all about music and peace Woodstock? The festival filled with drugs and alcohol and-and sex Woodstock? 

The festival that was about everything Emily and Mitch stood against as parents Woodstock?

“Oh yeah, those were the days, huh?” Emily reminisced. Mitch hummed in agreement.

“I still remember the first time I saw you in the crowd at the Janis Joplin set. Don’t think I could forget it even if I tried,” Mitch proclaimed. 

“Yeah? I still remember you putting me on your shoulders during Hendrix’s set. You dared me to crowd surf, but for some reason, that’s where I drew the line at that festival,” Emily laughed. 

“You did always know when to quit. Unlike me who thought it would be a good idea to buy our son a guitar so that he would be like Jimmy Hendrix.’ 

Luke froze, the anchor starting to reappear on his chest. His dad....his dad wanted him to be like one of the greats? That didn’t make any sense. 

“Hey, I'm just as much to blame. I thought it would be a good outlet for him. He was always so stubborn, so bottled up, I thought maybe if he couldn’t talk to us he could-- It was--it was just supposed to be a hobby,” Emily explained, her voice starting to give out towards the end. Mitch turned around and brought her in for a hug. 

“It’s ok, it’s ok. We couldn’t have possibly known, Emily.” Mitch soothed. 

Luke felt dizzy. And nauseous. And-could ghosts even feel those things? Oh, well, it didn’t matter, because Luke was feeling those things. And tears were streaming down his face uncontrollably, his body shaking to try and keep it together. But, he couldn’t. 

He brought his sleeve up to his face, trying to wipe away and remnants of tears. He couldn’t go to Julie’s like this. But, he had nowhere else to go, and he definitely didn’t want to be here.

So, he poofed through the tears and landed in the studio of all places. Normally, he’d be more than okay with that, but he just didn’t wanna see--

“Hey, man, where have you been? Rehearsal started like 15 minutes ago,” Reggie interrogated. Luke didn’t stay to entertain. Instead, he just walked away without a word, not looking anyone in the eye. 

He didn’t know where he was going, he just couldn’t stay there. At some point, Luke managed to find solace on the porch swing in front of the Molina’s house, and he crumbled into himself, pulling his knees to his chest, resting his head on top of them. 

How could his parents do this to him? How could they act like music was this terrible thing, the absolute worst thing, their son could get passionate about when they clearly were the ones that passed it onto him?

“Luke?” A soft voice sounded causing Luke to lift his head up. 

Julie. 

Of course it was Julie. 

Good, kind hearted, loving, actual angel on earth, Julie. 

He didn’t want to talk, but that was the thing about Julie. She got him. Because as soon as he looked up at her, she moved to make her way towards the swing, sat down beside him and rested her head onto his shoulder. 

She didn’t say anything. Didn’t ask what was wrong. Didn’t say his name. Just sat there with her head on his shoulder because she knew him. She knew that’s what he needed. And god, did he need that. 

He needed the smell of her shampoo, peaches on a summer day. He needed the sound of her breathing reminding him that even though he didn’t have a breath anymore, he still needed to follow her rhythm. 

He needed her.

Luke doesn’t know how long they sat like that. The warmth of Julie’s living body radiating onto his own skin, the slight L.A breeze gently pushing the swing they sat on. But, Luke did know, that being there with her made him feel the way he should; Calm and alive at the same time, the way the waves looked after a raging storm. He felt like he could tell her anything, like the way it should’ve been with his parents. 

“My parents...” He broke the silence and Julie lifted her head off of his shoulder so that she could look at him, but she placed her hand on his wrist gently, knowing what he needed. 

“They met at a Woodstock. They....they loved music...” he managed to choke out.

Julie parted her lips, and god if he wasn’t so sad at that moment, he would’ve kissed her. 

“But...if they loved music...why didn’t-why didn’t they love that you loved it?” She chose her words carefully. But, Luke still felt overwhelmed. Because how couldn’t he?

How couldn’t the tears make their way back into his eyes without his consent? How couldn’t his chest feel tight? How couldn’t he lose it?

“I don’t know-I don’t know,” Was all he could manage to say as he shook his head, the tears continuing to fall. 

Julie pulled him back into her, his head burying itself in the crook of her neck, his hands twisting themselves in her hair. 

“Hey, hey. You still got me, yeah? And Alex and Reggie. And Flynn and WIllie. We all love you and we love that you love music. That’s what matters right? We may not be the same family as your parents, but we’re still your family. And you did that all on your own. You found us. Not your parents. Not the universe. Not Caleb. You. And I think that’s something pretty amazing,” Julie explained. 

Luke pulled back from Julie, the tears drying on their own, his eyes finding a home in hers. 

He never thought of it that way. Because, around Julie, he always felt like they were meant to know each other. Like some sort of invisible string tied them together way before either of theme existed. But, she was right. The universe may have placed them in a path where they could find each other, but he was still the one that found her. And Luke was so fucking lucky to have found her. This-bright burning star. This wicked beauty. This wrecking ball of a talent and any and all other metaphors that describe just how amazing she was. 

And not only did he find her, but he found someone that loves him. Truly, really, genuinely, loves him. All of him. Not just his pretty stuff, but the ugly parts too. His stubbornness, his one track mind, and most importantly, his passion. 

Maybe, his soul wasn’t as attached to his literal home, but Luke thinks that the the home he found in Julie Molina made up for that. 

tagging: @moony221b @willexx @littledancersun @blush-and-books @lydias--stiles @romantiquesnouvelles

[acciocriativity]

The First Meeting ||Harry Potter

Pairing: Harry Potter x You

Summary: Your life takes a 360º turn when you discover that you are a witch and that you are going to study and live in a world completely different from yours. In the midst of so much change, you meet a boy who is feeling the same. 

 

Word Count: 2.4k

N / A: This is the first fanfic that I am posting on Tumblr, so it would be very important to me if you leave your opinion here and also English it's not my first language, if I made a mistake, I'll like to know and correct it.

 The day started rainy, which is not surprising considering that I am in England, more specifically in the city of London. However, I, as an immigrant from hot lands, consider rainy days bad luck, because something always happens wrong. 

And to my despair, today was supposed to be perfect. 

It was only a month ago that I discovered to be a witch and for my happiness, it has nothing to do with pointy noses and pure evil. Apparently the only similarity is the hats, since in the two moments I was around real wizards, I saw several people wearing them.

 My family, for the most part, being a completely devout Catholic, did not accept my new reality so well, not to say it was hell on Earth. In short, if I went, I wouldn't be able to set foot in the house again, as they weren't going to house a sinful witch. 

That bearded gentleman was kind enough to help me find another place to stay, while my parents would think better of it. Although I was unable to thank him or at least speak after being expelled from my home, or old home.

 

I've been staying at the Leaky Cauldron ever since, but because of the latest events in my life, I just went out to buy the materials. Being a witch had cost me a lot and I wasn't ready to face that until yesterday. It took me a long time to decide whether to go to Hogwarts or not, but now the certainty that I made the right choice was growing in my chest. 

 Right after having breakfast at one of the bar tables, I waited seated by the person in charge who would accompany me to Kings Cross station, where I was supposed to catch a train. I knew about it the same day that I discovered the magical world but only today I was anxious for that. I must admit that I imagined that we would fly, obviously all the stories lied to all the non-magical children on Earth.  

A few minutes later, a man in a turban appeared through the door and walked towards me, his expression showing no particular emotion when entering or even seeing me sitting, but what scared me was the fragility and fear in his voice.

- Miss Garcia, good morning, are you ready to leave? - He leaned on one leg while looking around worriedly. 

- Yes sir .. is everything ok ?? The bathroom is on that side - I knew it was inconvenient but I couldn't hold my curiosity as I watched his expression change.

- It will be a short trip but we must go now, to not risk losing the train, let's go - his posture was suddenly rigid and his face looked shaken but this time, I kept my thoughts to myself.

 At least he was kind enough to help me with the two suitcases, which were quite heavy due to the amount of books that were inside, I got some History of Magic extra books to learn more about that world. 

And he was not wrong, the path was fast despite the light rain and wet streets. We didn't talk beyond the formalities, I just found out that he is one of my teachers that year, Professor Quirrel and nothing else.

As soon as my feet took a step into the station, the man said goodbye with a nod and left to go his own way with a weird expression, but I didn't care about that for more than 2 seconds. 

I took a deep breath and started to walk following the small crowd of people who would possibly go to work in another city, since I didn't know the way to the platforms. Honestly, I didn't think it would work until I saw the license plate numbers, and I quickly hurried on, because mine was ahead. 

- 7 ... 8 ... 9 ... 10 ?? - I stopped walking at the same moment I realized that mistake, there was nothing between 9 and 10 - I don't believe it ... 

 I stood leaning against a wall looking around as if looking for someone, but in fact I wanted to find a miracle or at least an angel who could tell me what to do in that situation. 

Millions of thoughts crossed my mind within 2 minutes, most of them negative, until something drew attention out of my despair, or rather, someone. A red hair had just gone through the wall, it was so fast I could hardly believe my own eyes. 

Two more people did the same before I managed to close my mouth and walk over there, in shaky, uncertain steps. They hadn't noticed me and I thanked them mentally for it, because I wouldn't be able to pronounce a single right word. The good news is that they were certainly wizards, by the way they dressed and the most logical conclusion is that they would know the right way. 

 I waited for everyone to cross to get closer to that wall, I couldn't hear the conversation but I noticed that the right way to enter is to run. Again I took a deep breath and looked around to see if anyone was noticing me, with the station full, my answer came as a quick no. 

 I closed my eyes and ran about three short steps until I felt a sensation unlike anything I had felt so far. The stone wall seemed to have turned into a wind wall and I easily managed to get to the other side. I immediately opened my eyes after hearing the sound of a train and when looking to the side, there he was. The Hogwarts Express was written right in front of the locomotive.  

 It only took me 10 seconds to notice the difference, the clothes were definitely different and there was an absurd amount of children and teenagers, as I was walking closer to the train entrance, more people were showing up, in a way I didn't know how to explain.  

 The trip was smooth to Hogwarts, I found an empty car as soon as I arrived but soon the seats were being filled and I ended up sharing my cabin with two more girls, I soon noticed that they were sisters and that was the initial topic of our conversation. They were nice and helped me get into the current context of the wizarding world, explaining the basics about Hogwarts as well. 

- And he's here, the boy who defeated you-know-who's going to study with us! - the oldest of the brunettes spoke excitedly with a huge smile on her face. 

- One of my friends told me earlier that she met him in the hall, what is he like? - the youngest asked even knowing that none of us would know the answer. 

 This topic remained for a while, until they decided to take a walk on the train while I read, enjoying some quiet time. Honestly, I wouldn't like to be in this boy's shoes, not only because of the tragedies in his life, but also because of the amount of attention, comments and theories about him.

But I cannot deny it, I would like to meet him, who would not be curious after everything that was being commented on? 

 People got in and out of the car where I was sitting and I tried to have a decent conversation with everyone, but then when two older students came to tell us that we should change clothes, as we were arriving. I preferred to wait because a hurried crowd of students wanted to go first, so I ended up being one of the last to get dressed, but one of the first to leave the train. 

 All the way the view had been impressive but nothing had prepared me for the vision I had when I approached the lake, where we were supposed to go. It was dark and it wasn't raining, the moonlight reflected on the water of the Black Lake like a mirror and I was almost sad to see that we were going to cross by boat, because that image would be blurry. 

I could only see the outline of the huge castle on the other side, but it was enough to see all the splendor of that place and for a few seconds I was paralyzed absorbing the beauty of everything around me, until a voice brought me to reality. 

- Only 4 people on each boat, kids! - I glanced at the giant man, who was talking animatedly to some students, before I sat down in an empty space.

 As soon as we reached the other side, we gathered in a small group on the castle entrance stairs to hear one of the teachers. I remained behind and silent as I was paying attention, until I saw someone passing by and right after I felt a foot stepping on top of mine for several seconds. 

- Hey! Can't you see I'm here ?? - I said indignantly but as low as possible looking at the red-haired boy beside me.

- I ... I'm sorry, I didn't see you - he replied without even looking at me, his face turning as red as the color of his hair.

 I thought about replying but as the teacher was still talking, I just preferred to nod, accepting the apology. Only then did I realize that I caught the attention of two more students, a curly haired girl who cast a disapproving look at the redhead but smiled at me gently and at another dark haired boy, who noticed my gaze and shifted his look to the other side immediately. 

 It didn't take more than 15 minutes before we were inside that incredible hall, instead of a concrete ceiling just like outside, above my head was the most beautiful starry sky I have ever had the pleasure of seeing, with floating candles to complete the view. To my relief, it didn't seem like a common thing for most first year students, who talked quietly among themselves so I didn't look like an idiot admiring alone. 

We were instructed to stay in a queue, I had no idea what was going to happen so I was distracted looking at the stars, which never seemed so achievable until that moment. I wish I could go up there and take at least one, but it would be impossible. 

 We walked slowly until we stopped in front of the other students, who were spread out over 4 tables, my eyes never left the illuminated sky and as a result, I didn't notice that I was too close to the boy in front of me.

I got my first embarrassing moment of the year in less than 10 minutes, because I stepped on the cover of the boy in front of me. All the consequences of that went by very quickly before my eyes. In a second I was out of balance and fell, but that's not the worst part. I accidentally pulled his cloak back, the boy fell out of balance and fell with me, his back to me. It hurts, too much. No more than the weight of my humiliation and shame, but it still hurts.

 My face took on a pinkish tinge as I silently prayed that no one noticed, but that's not what happened. Today was definitely not my lucky day. I could hear half the room laughing and half whispering, so I knew for sure that I had made a big impression on people and a bigger one on the Hogwarts floor. 

- Sorry ... I was distracted - I spoke as quietly as possible looking at the ceiling and again at him.

 He didn't look at me for more than 2 seconds before looking away in that same direction and back to me again. His nod was minimal but noticeable and he soon stood up, which I had forgotten to do in those few seconds.

 What surprised me more than anything in the last month was his hand extended to help me, it didn't take me long to accept the help and so I got up and straightened my clothes trying not to show shock. This was an act of kindness that I couldn't expect from my brothers, considering how angry they would be in a situation like this, but other than shame, I couldn't see a hint of anger in his green eyes. 

- I'm really sorry ... - I said again, loud enough that only he could hear me. 

 The director had called everyone's attention, so most had stopped laughing although that redhead from before just stopped after the mini punch that the brunette gave him. 

- It's okay, it will just be another reason for people to talk about me behind my back - he gave me another small smile on the side but his tone was not the happiest. 

- And why?? I don't know who you are - I was curious because I had not met anyone important in the magical world until then.

 I could see a flash of surprise in his expression but before he could answer me, the names started to be called and little by little the children walked to the stool, where the hat was placed on their heads. After that he didn't answer me, no one else had the courage to say a word because they were very anxious to get their turn and also curious, like me, to know which house the famous Harry Potter would go to. 

- Potter, Harry - called the teacher with a serious but serene expression and a different look in her eyes. 

 From then on, the students' not-so-low whispers started again and I, who was already at the Hufflepuff table, could only be surprised to notice that the boy I dragged to my shame was actually Harry Potter himself. I didn't have the courage to look at him for more than 5 seconds, because again the embarrassment consumed me but this time harder. I only looked at him again when the Gryffindor table radiated in cheers and laughter as soon as he was drawn there and then our eyes met for the last time that night.

Harry Potter Masterlist

[oddeyecadia]

aren't humans supposed to be scared of death?

lucifer/main character

also posted on ao3

__

His glare alone could kill a thousand souls.

It wasn't a fair battle for (M/C) only had one, the same soul that was almost some demons' dinner earlier.

Most of the time when his eyes would fall on her, her heart would skip a beat and she'd forget how to breathe. Right then, she was still at lost for breath, but only because it seemed like he wanted to rip her lungs into pieces. A contrast to how gentle he was holding her in his arms moments ago.

It was times like these that (M/C) wished she had even half of Beel's athleticism. Adrenaline wasn't enough to increase her speed, but at least it helped with distracting her from her aching feet. There were two– no, three demons chasing her. If it was only one, she would've decided to fight, but their number didn't give her a choice but to run for her life.

She turned to an alleyway hoping to find somewhere to hide and found nothing but a dead end.

"You done wasting our time yet?" A panting voice came up behind her.

Trying to catch her breath, (M/C) quickly turned to the owner of the voice. The same demons who she turned down– one she might've given a black eye –were blocking her way. There were five of them now, five demons with hungry eyes starting at her. Where the hell did the other two come from?

She backed up and widened her stance. Running away and hiding from them were crossed out, there was no way she could get out of this situation without at least trying to defend herself. With a sprained feet and a trembling body, she for sure wouldn't win, but what choice did she have?

One of them spoke. "If only you just accepted our offer. You really had the guts to reject us, you, a human!" There was a hint of disgust in his last words.

She was about to say how she would rather lose her soul than accompany them to The Fall when the same demon aggressively pulled her by the wrist, making her squeak. His grip was so tight that it stung her skin, but she couldn't careless. All she wanted right then was to give the demon multiple kicks in the balls.

The others cheered him on as his face moved closer to hers. Gritting her teeth, she tried to pull away but his grip only tightened. She could feel his breath on her neck when he said, "Such a pure soul too. Free dinner's about to be good."

Her stomach flipped in the most unpleasant way as she shut her eyes, expecting to meet pain. Memories of soft crimson eyes flashed through her mind and she found herself internally calling for its owner.

It was only then that the fear started to sink in.

As if her prayers had reached the celestial realm, in a matter of seconds, the tight grip on her wrist disappeared and her feet was off the ground. Harsh wind blew through the alleyway and the scent of musk she loved so much hit her nose. She didn't need to open her eyes to know who was holding her but when she did, the same crimson eyes met hers and suddenly, all the tension in her body faded away.

She had always felt safest in Lucifer's arms.

(M/C) could almost taste the bitter atmosphere filling his office as Lucifer stood in front of her with his arms crossed. Daring to look him in the eye once, she regretted that decision immediately when a chill ran down her spine. She held onto her own arm for comfort.

Whenever his brothers would misbehave, he'd scold them for an eternity as one of the many punishments. He haven't said a word ever since he fought the group of demons who tried to murder her tonight, though. She'd rather have the repetitive reminders and sarcastic remarks than his silence that was more terrifying than the Devil King himself. She haven't even met said king.

After moments of hesitation, she finally found her voice. "Lucifer, I'm–"

"Mind telling me what you were doing alone in the streets of Devildom in the middle of the night?"

(M/C) gulped at his sharp tone. "I just– I needed to buy supplies for my school project due tomorrow, so I went out to get some."

"And you chose to go alone?"

"Well, everyone's already asleep."

"You of all people would know that I would still be in my office even at this hour. I would have been willing to accompany you if you asked." It was obvious that he was trying his best to keep his composure, but the way his voice was getting louder and more aggressive was ruining his facade.

She took a deep breath, praying to his father that her next words wouldn't fuel up the fire too much. "I doubt that you would even leave your desk if I ask you. Besides, the store wasn't that far and I didn't wanna bother any of you."

"That is not an excuse!" She didn't know it was possible but the furrow on his brows got even deeper. "It is irresponsible to do school projects the night before the deadline, first and foremost."

He lost her at the word irresponsible. (M/C) was pretty sure she had received this very same talk for over a million times, she didn't need to hear it again.

The way he spoke with such authority reminded her that she was talking to Lucifer, the Vice President of the student council and Diavolo's right hand man, not the Lucifer who would wake her up early in the morning so they could have the table on their own during breakfast or the Lucifer who put his coat on her when she accidentally slept on the couch.

This was the Lucifer his brothers would daydream of punching on a daily, but still the Lucifer she'd risk everything for.

"What's wrong? Having trouble falling asleep?"

(M/C) only blinked at the demon. She should've known she would run into Lucifer when she decided to roam around the halls of the House of Lamentation when everyone was asleep. It was rare for him to leave his desk at this hour, though. Perhaps luck just wasn't by her side.

"Uhm, yeah kind of." She answered honestly.

"May I ask why?"

She could only bite her lip. Was it a good idea to say she was just missing her room in the human world? Or that she was craving for her parent/s' hug? Would he even understand what homesickness was? It didn't matter, she wasn't scared of opening up to him but knowing Lucifer, he'd probably report this to Lord Diavolo and knowing Diavolo, who knew what ridiculous human event would he attempt to pull off if he found out. Although, it would be fun to watch the crown prince try, it would only remind her more that she wasn't in the human world with her family.

She gave Lucifer a hopefully convincing laugh. "Oh, it's pretty stupid. Levi and I watched a horror movie earlier. It's kind of hard to sleep when the creepy stuff keeps replaying in my head."

"Hmm. I never thought you'd be the type to be scared of fictional monsters, (M/C)."

He was right. (M/C) was in literal hell for Devil King's sake. No monster or ghost could ever scare her anymore.

"I guess you just don't know me as well as you thought." She said, keeping the act.

It took him too long to speak again that she was afraid her lying abilities were getting rusty. "Well then, I have a suggestion." A grin formed on his lips. "How about we share the bed?"

Her breathing stopped as the room grew several degrees higher than usual. Share the bed? Share the bed?

It seemed like her head didn't have control of her mouth for she just said, "Sure. Why not?"

Later as (M/C) felt the other side of Lucifer's gigantic bed dip, she started to realize why Why not? was such a stupid thing to ask.

It was like she was on her first day at RAD again, growing an interest in the most powerful demon in Devildom. She couldn't help it, he was undeniably attractive and the way he so confidently presented himself was gravitating. Lucifer was, for lack of a better word, hot.

But that was only what he was to her, an eye candy that was way out of her league. He was too much of a stuck up for her anyway, so she decided not to let her feelings grow into anything more.

She thought she had managed to forget about her embarrassing crush, but the way her heart almost jumped out of her chest as she felt him lay down beside her told her otherwise.

"(M/C)." He called.

"Yup?"

"You're going to end up falling off if you stay on the edge there. It is much comfier here in the middle, come."

The way his voice dropped at the last word made her feel things, particularly in her lower region. She shook off the thoughts before it could conquer her whole body. Giving the wall she had been staring at for minutes an internal farewell, she finally faced him for the first time she lied in his bed that night.

The butterflies in her stomach flying around for fun were now in chaos.

Right before her was Lucifer in a plain black shirt, looking as ethereal as ever. With a cheeky smile on his lips, his gloveless hand gave the space beside him a pat and she settled closer beside him like the fool that she was.

"Happy?"

He chuckled, most likely at how her face was heating up. "Very. So what's the true reason?"

"Excuse me?"

"What was the reason you couldn't sleep?" He must have noticed how she froze for a second for he let out another snicker. "Don't act so surprised. You laugh for no reason whenever you aren't being truthful. A pretty bad liar for someone so cunning."

She should feel embarrassed but the way he noticed this little fact about her just made her grin. "Alright, you got me. I didn't lie about the horror movie, though. We did watch one but... yeah, it's not the reason I couldn't sleep."

Crimson eyes just stared at her as if asking her to continue. (M/C) sighed. "I was just missing my life back home. That's all."

"Are you not enjoying your stay here?"

"No! No, of course not. I like it here. You and your brothers are like family to me. Sometimes I just miss my family in the human world, you know?"

He hummed in what seemed like understanding. "It can't be helped. You've never been away from them for this long, correct?"

She shook her head in response, chest getting heavy at the fact that she haven't talked to her family in months. "No. I guess this is normal, though, I'm just naturally a family person. I rarely even go to sleepovers just because it feels weird not being a room away from them."

"Is that so?" His eyes avoided hers. "We aren't as different as I thought."

Most people would be taken aback if they heard his last words, but (M/C) knew better. Lucifer wasn't the most affectionate brother. In fact, he seemed like someone who'd leave all his brothers tied up on a railway if he could, but in truth, he would just leave to destroy the train itself. "You don't like sleepovers too?" She joked.

Something in her chest blooms when a small laugh came out of him. "If what we are doing now is what you consider a sleepover, then no, it is certainly to my liking." Their eyes met again and she swore she melted right then and there. "Regardless, the purpose of a sleep over is well, to sleep. Unless you really are terrified because of that horror film."

"Pff. Why would I be terrified? I'm with the strongest demon in all of Devildom."

"You are aware I could kill you, no?" It was almost funny how causally he just said it.

She shrugged. "So could anyone."

"Death doesn't scare you?"

"I mean, honestly I'm much more scared of hurting the people I'd leave behind." She answered without hesitation. "You're probably the one not scared of it." Could you even die? She thought of asking but decided to keep her mouth shut.

An odd expression grew on his face, a look she haven't seen before. It was much softer yet gloomier for some reason. "No." He let out a deep sigh as he avoided her eyes again. "Losing someone because of death, however..."

He didn't continue, and he didn't have to. The sorrow in his voice already had the weight of a thousand words.

"You know how dangerous it is out there, especially for a human. May I remind you that you're nothing but a walking dinner for most demons." He continued.

"I know that, alright? You don't have to remind me. I promise, I won't do it again." She said, taking defeat for she just wanted to get this over with. Running away from a gang of demons as she feared for her own life took a lot of energy out of her and she just wanted to rest, but she knew Lucifer was far from done.

"You better. Can you imagine what would happen if I didn't find you sooner? Not only would you get hurt and ruin the exchange program but you also–"

Something in her snapped, heart dropping deep into her stomach.

Of course. Of fucking course.

"I also what?" She asked confidently despite her whole body trembling. She didn't miss how his eyes widened for a second. "Could've damaged yours and Diavolo's reputation? Could've given you more paper works and bills to pay?"

(M/C)'s fists clenched, slapping herself internally for even thinking that he actually, genuinely cared for her, that she was important enough for him to risk his life protecting her when all this time, he was just protecting someone else's name.

All the hand holding, the good night kisses, the times he asked her to stay in line on the phone for comfort, the soft smiles, it was all done for business. He must've noticed how fond she was of him and took it to his advantage.

He was doing all of those only to make her experience at the Devildom more pleasing so she wouldn't write anything negative about the student exchange program. It was all about the stupid exchange program. In the back of her head, she already knew this could be the case, so why did it still leave a heavy weight in her chest?

She scoffed pityingly at her own foolishness. "What else, huh? I could've ruin Diavolo's dreams of strenghtening the relationship between the three worlds–"

"This isn't just about that." He let his fists fall on his side.

With tears forming in her eyes, she dared to step forward. "Well, sorry, Vice president! I didn't mean to give the student council another headache."

"(M/C)."

"I'm sorry for leaving a bad record to Diavolo's precious–"

"–YOU COULD'VE DIED!"

In the aftermath of the shout, the silence seemed so deafening. It was his turn to take a step closer and it was only then when she noticed it.

He was shaking. "You could've died." He said, softer this time. "This is more than just because of the program. I nearly lost you." There was that odd expression again.

Tears rolled down her cheeks as her mind went back to one of their previous conversations in his bed. Not missing the way his hand kept slightly lifting up and back down as he talked, she took the initiative and placed her own on his cheek. "But I'm still here." She said, almost in a whisper for they were so close, their bodies were almost touching.

He put his hand on top of hers, gently kissing its palm as an unspoken apology. It wasn't much, he was still the avatar of pride after all, but it warmed her heart that he was trying.

Taking her hand and intertwining it with his own, his head dropped to her shoulder. His soft breathing tickled her skin. As she thread her fingers through his hair, she couldn't help but appreciate this side of him. This was the Lucifer no one had ever seen, the Lucifer who despised even the thought of not being by her side, the one who loved hand holding, the one who'd turn into a blushing mess whenever she'd kiss him out of nowhere, the Lucifer only she got to see.

With a deep sigh, he finally spoke again. "What am I going to do with you?"

She tried to pull away to respond but as soon as she moved, his arms wrapped around her waist and pulled her back in. (M/C) couldn't protest, she didn't want to, so they stayed close for a long while.