#and this was supposed to be a simple warm up Sketch

[fluffyfangirl]

"There's a pretty pink string tied to El's left pinky.

And the other end of that little pink string is tied to Max's right pinky."

Inspired by and quoted from "tying you to me" by dear @andiwriteordie (please go read it, it's awesome and angsty)

[uniquexusposts]

The politician's daughter (3)

Main characters: James Beaufort x reader Genre: fanfiction, fluff, TV show  Word count: 2973 Requested by: @marjoriesemente

Summary: What will happen when you put the rich against the rich and suffer the one in between?

Click here to go to part 2

“Wait!” James said when he saw a maid walking up the front door. The woman stopped walking and looked questionable at James. “I will get this. It’s okay,” he smiled and jogged to the front door. Through the glass, he saw Y/N stepping out of a car, looking bewildered as she glanced around. Her eyes met his, and she raised an eyebrow in surprise. James opened the door. “Hey, welcome,” he said and stepped inside. 

“Hi,” Y/N replied and stepped inside. “Long time no see,” she smirked, looking around the hall. 

“How have you been?” James went along. “We need to catch up, I suppose.” He squinted his eyes, but cheekily smiled. He invited her to the living room. 

“Hmm-hmm,” she hummed and playfully gave him a nudge. She stopped walking when they stood in the living room. “Holy shi…” Y/N mumbled and turned around to have a complete look at the living room and entrance. “This is like Buckingham Palace. At least, that's what I think it looks like,” she added. “Or Windsor Castle. A royal residence.”

His eyes were resting on her face. A grin came on his face. “That is… too much?” He crossed his arms in front of his chest. 

Y/N turned around and rolled her eyes. “Not everyone is that rich. It’s a compliment, though.”

James chuckled. "I'll take it as one," he said, uncrossing his arms and motioning for her to follow him. "Come on, let’s get started on that project.”James led Y/N through the grand corridors of his home, their footsteps echoing softly on the marble floors. They paused in the kitchen, where the gleam of stainless steel appliances contrasted with the warm wooden cabinetry. James grabbed a couple of bottles of sparkling water and a plate of assorted snacks.

"You have people who work here, right?" Y/N asked, her voice tinged with curiosity.

"That's right," James replied cautiously, unsure of her reaction.

An impressed look crossed her face. "Hah," she mumbled. "Just interested." They resumed their walk, heading up the sweeping staircase, Y/N's eyes darting around, taking in every detail; the intricate railings, the family portraits lining the walls, the luxurious carpet beneath their feet. "It's like walking through a museum," she remarked, her voice a mix of awe and amusement. “Sorry, I am just impressed.”

���I noticed,” he smiled. 

They reached the first floor and entered a room: James’s bedroom. The room was spacious, with large windows allowing natural light to flood. Y/N placed her bag against the enormous wooden desk across from his bed. This room smelled like him. A small smile came on her face. 

James set the snacks and drinks on the desk and motioned for Y/N to take a seat. "Alright, let's dive back into the project.”

They settled in, opening their laptops and notebooks. Their ideas flowed more freely as they brainstormed, the initial awkwardness dissipating. They discussed their concept for ‘Sub Coffee’ in detail, planning the marketing strategies, target demographics, and potential partnerships. At some point, they were designing the logo and deciding their corporate identity. They moved from the desk to the floor, laying out some designs and ideas. Y/N was sitting against his bed, and James was lying on his side next to her. 

“I don’t see it anymore,” Y/N mumbled and threw her notebook next to her. “You picked out a logo.” She sighed and let her head lean on the bed. 

James, lying on his side, propped his head up with one hand and glanced at the scattered designs. He picked up one of the logos they’d sketched. “How about this one? Simple, clean, and it gets the point across.”

Y/N lifted her head and looked at the design he was holding. “It’s decent,” she admitted, a small smile on her lips. “Maybe we could refine it and add some colour or texture.”

James nodded. “Yeah, that could work. But it’s not wow.”

“We need that wow factor.”

At that moment, there were three knocks on the door. The door flew open, and Lydia stepped into the room. “James…” She didn’t know he had someone over. Especially not the politician’s daughter. “Oh.”

He looked over his shoulder. “Lydia.”

A warm smile came on Y/N’s face. “Hey.”

Lydia’s eyes shot from James to Y/N, and back to James. It was a weird couple to see together, and she had no idea what it meant. She blinked several times, clearly trying to process the scene before her. “Hey, Y/N,” she said, her voice tinged with curiosity. “I didn’t know you were here.” It wasn’t like Lydia didn’t like Y/N, but Y/N was an attention seeker. She had a name. She was in the middle. It was kinda like there was a battle going on between them: Y/L/N versus Beaufort. 

James sat up. “We’re working on a project.”

“The company project?”

“Yes.” 

“The deadline was Friday evening,” Lydia mentioned. 

Y/N’s smile dropped, and her eyes shot to James. James’ jaw dropped, and he looked at Y/N. 

“But the presentations are tomorrow,” James said while looking at Y/N. The corners of his lips curled up, mirroring Y/N’s smile. 

Lydia nodded slowly, a faint smirk playing on her lips. “Yes, but the deadline to submit everything was Friday evening. I guess you two missed it?”

The two on the floor began to laugh about their failed planning. 

“Y/N is new at school. They probably will condone it this time,” James confidently said. 

“Yes, but James is not new. Be prepared for the worst,” Lydia smiled. “Anyway, I am going to the golf club. See you later. And good luck,” she said and walked away. 

Y/N and James exchanged a glance, their laughter subsiding as the reality of their situation set in. "We really messed up," Y/N said, a mix of amusement and frustration in her voice.

James shook his head, still smiling. "We'll figure it out. We have to.”

Just seconds after Lydia left, the door opened again. This time it was a maid. Y/N eyes shot to James, not knowing how to act. James showed an emotionless smile. It was shocking to Y/N how quickly James could switch between his own personality and a business personality. Or his act. 

“Mary,” he greeted the young girl. 

Y/N wondered how old she was. Maybe their age. How did she end up here? 

“Mr Beaufort, Miss Y/L/N,” the girl nodded. “Mr Y/L/N has arrived and is here to pick up Miss Y/L/N.” 

A thin line appeared between Y/N’s eyebrows, and she looked confused. “My father?” How did he know that she was here? She didn’t tell her mum or brother about it. “How… What… Huh?” 

“He is waiting in the car for you,” the maid mentioned. 

“Oh. Okay. Thank you,” Y/N politely smiled. The maid left the room. “What is my father doing here? I wasn’t supposed to see him for another week. And now he has time?” Y/N mumbled to herself and sighed. She looked at James, who didn’t answer her rhetorical questions. “I am afraid we must finish it alone, at home.”

“Sure, that’s not an issue. We’re almost done anyway. Only the corporate identity. I will work on it and send it to you,” he offered. 

“Really?” 

He nodded. “You were the brain behind all of this. Now it’s my turn to put it on paper.”

Was this the same James Beaufort I met last week? A grateful smile came on her face. “Thanks.” She got up and collected her own stuff. “Do you take everything with you to school tomorrow? Or do I need to bring something, too?” 

“I’ve got it covered,” he said, his tone reassuring. “Just bring yourself. We’ll nail this presentation.”

Y/N nodded, her eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and curiosity. “Okay, thanks, James. I appreciate it.”

James gave her a small smile. “No problem. See you tomorrow.”

Y/N turned to leave but hesitated momentarily, glancing back at him. “You know, you’re not as much of an asshole as I thought.”

James chuckled softly, shaking his head. “Thanks, I guess.” He was holding some papers in his hands. “You are not as much of a bitch as I thought.” 

An amusing smile came on her face, and she shook her head. As Y/N went downstairs, her mind was a whirl of thoughts. She still couldn’t quite wrap her head around that her father was here, unannounced. The maid’s announcement had thrown her off balance, and she couldn’t shake the feeling that something wasn’t right.

* * *

The following day, Y/N arrived in a sleek black car at school, and the family chauffeur opened the door for her. She stepped out with an air of confidence and a stern expression. Dressed in a tailored blazer and heels, her demeanour was unmistakably authoritative. She thanked the chauffeur with a curt nod and walked towards the school entrance.

As she moved through the hallways, students parted to make way for her, sensing the change in her presence. Her eyes were focused straight ahead, ignoring the whispers and glances that followed her. She rounded a corner and nearly bumped into James, who was on his way to class.

A soft smile came on his face. “Y/N,” he said. “Good morning. Are you ready for the presentation?”

Y/N avoided his eyes without breaking stride, but her expression was cold and distant. “Excuse me,” she said icily, not acknowledging his question. She brushed past him and continued down the hall.

James stood there, momentarily stunned by her demeanour. The warmth and fun they had shared while working on the project seemed to have changed overnight. Confused, he watched her retreating figure, trying to make sense of the sudden change. He turned to his friends, who all looked impressed and bewildered. Cyril somehow looked amused. James raised his arms and looked as confused as them. 

Y/N entered the classroom, her posture straight and her face set in a mask of willpower. She sat and began setting up her materials for the presentation, her movements precise and deliberate. James entered shortly after, his expression still reflecting the shock of their brief encounter. He placed beside her, trying to focus on the task at hand.

The class settled in, and the teacher called for the presentations to begin. Y/N and James were first. They stood at the front of the class, their professional demeanour masking any personal tension. The synergy they had developed while working on the project was evident as they went through their slides. Their presentation was polished, and their ideas were well-articulated. Despite the cold shoulder, Y/N had given James earlier, their professional collaboration was flawless.

When they finished, the class erupted in applause. The teacher nodded approvingly. “Excellent work, both of you. Your proposal is innovative and well-thought-out. You’ve set a high bar for the rest of the class. However, you did not upload your documents on time. An explanation?”

“Regrettably, we experienced a delay in uploading the documents due to unforeseen challenges in delivering the results at that time,” James answered. "Y/N was unfamiliar with the process as it was her first time working on this project.”

“My apologies for that,” Y/N went along. 

The teacher nodded slowly. “Since it is your first project and your third week at this school, it’s fine for now. But the next time, there will be consequences.”

Y/N and James returned to their seats, the tension between them palpable. James couldn’t help but feel a pang of disappointment. He had hoped that the presentation would help bridge the gap that had suddenly appeared between them.

As the class moved on to the next presentation, James leaned over to Y/N and whispered, “What happened? Why are you acting like this?”

Y/N kept looking in front of her, her expression unreadable. “It’s nothing, James. Let’s just focus on the project.”

He nodded slowly, knowing that pressing her further would be pointless. Business partners… James changed the look on his face to authoritative. She wanted to be a business partner, and then they would be business partners and nothing more. 

As the day went on, James resolved to find out what had caused the shift and, if possible, to mend whatever had gone wrong. He opened up to her, and they shared some jokes and laughed a lot. She took advantage of his weakness. There was a reason why James was extremely selective about picking his friends or partners. He let go of that once, and he was shown the exact reason why he was that selective. 

The day's last class ended, and Y/N was the first to leave the classroom, even leaving Amelia behind. James quickly grabbed his stuff and followed Y/N. He had to talk properly to her. He quickened his pace and grabbed her arm when he was close enough. “Don’t,” he mumbled, and she was trying to snatch her arm back. James led her to an empty classroom and closed the door behind him. “What was that?” 

Y/N sighed, walked to a table, and sat down. She crossed her legs. Her face straightened, not looking forward to talking to him. “What was what?” 

James took a deep breath, trying to control his frustration. “You know exactly what I mean,” he said, his voice low but firm. “Yesterday, we were working together just fine. We had a good time, even. Then today, you act like I don’t exist and give me the cold shoulder. What’s going on?”

Y/N rolled her eyes, her expression remaining impassive. “James, don’t make a big deal out of this. We finished our project. It’s done. That’s all there is to it.”

“So… You used me.”

“I did not use you.” 

“Hah,” he breathed and nodded. He stepped to her, noticing she didn’t care to look him in the eyes. “Why…” The word sounded harsh between his lips because he didn’t understand her behaviour. He saw her eyes flutter because of his town. “Why are you ignoring me then? Acting like I’m your business partner that you can’t stand but must work together.” James kept looking at her; her eyes had a mixture of frustration and something else he couldn't quite place. Yet she still wouldn’t look at him. 

“James, it’s not like that,” she said, her voice wavering slightly. “You wouldn’t understand.”

“Try me,” James challenged, stepping even closer. “I want to understand.”

Y/N sighed, crossing her arms defensively. “Because it’s easier this way. It’s easier to keep you at a distance. Yesterday was… it was a mistake.”

James shook his head, a pained expression on his face. “So you’re just going to shut me out? Pretend like we didn’t connect?”

“We didn’t connect,” Y/N said sharply. “We worked on a project. That’s all it was.”

“That’s not true,” James insisted. “We talked. We laughed. I saw a side of you that you don’t show to anyone else. And now you’re acting like it never happened.”

Y/N looked away, her jaw tightening. “Because it can’t happen, James. My life is complicated. I don’t have room for...”

“For what? For friends?” James interrupted; his voice was harsh.

For a moment, she broke character. Her eyes softened, and her shoulders hung low. She looked down, hoping she could blink the forming tears away. “I am not allowed to be friends with you,” she whispered. “Not even be project partners.” She slowly looked up. And for the first time today, their gaze met. 

“What do you mean?” James’ eyes shot from her right to left eye. The entire time, it was an act. And he fell for it. “How are we not allowed to be even project partners?” 

She was fighting between her own emotions and her father’s values. “Because of your scandals,” she mouthed. “I can’t be seen by you because it will damage my father’s reputation.” The words rolled over her lips like her father instructed her to. It wasn’t her words. 

James’ lips parted. “What?” He stepped a few steps back. “But your father literally wears our suits and compliments them during a public appearance. He is a loyal customer of Beaufort. He is literally wearing Beaufort, he is Beaufort.”

Even her father prepared her for this sentence. Her lip started to tremble, and her blood was boiling and freezing simultaneously. She sniffed. “I don’t want to do this, James,” she said, not following the script. “But I have to pick my father’s side-“

“Sure. No problem. It was a nice project, Y/N. Hopefully, we will get a good grade because I will never work with you again. Good afternoon.” 

James turned on his heel and stormed out of the classroom, leaving Y/N standing there, feeling a whirlwind of emotions swirling inside her. She wanted to call out to him, explain, and apologise, but the words caught in her throat. Every word she said didn’t make sense to her, and it was a mess. She had betrayed James and herself, all to be forced to protect her father's reputation.

Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes as she realised the depth of the mess she had created. She had lost a friend, maybe even more than that, all because she was forced to be loyal to her father. It was either that or her life would be ruined. 

Money is power, and power is ego; ego is arrogance—even when it comes to your own family. 

Taglist: @crashingwavesofeuphoria @maryvibess

[giamee]

𝐂𝐈𝐆𝐀𝐑𝐄𝐓𝐓𝐄𝐒 𝐎𝐔𝐓 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐖𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐎𝐖!

╭─────────────────────── ( 🎐 )

even though you don't talk, they'll still find a way to listen

› 〉 📂 .ೃ | mute reader, jus some fluff really, bit on the short side

requested by @/anon

╰─➤ 💌 ₍₁₎ ok i should nawtttt have used this colour scheme im squinting like a rat at my screen tryna see what i'm saying. the title is 'cigarettes out the window' (shoutout tv girl) if u couldnt read it which i do not hold against u

ᯓ ᡣ𐭩 GEPARD.

it's simply in his nature to look out for others, to ensure that everyone is alright. and when he meets you, he's thrown for a loop a little. because you are fine.

the first time he sees you is in serval's workshop- you're just leaving, and something compels him to make sure that he speaks to you, even if it's for a few fleeting moments before you leave and he most likely never sees you again.

it's a simple question of how your day is, but you simply offer him a small smile before ducking past him, scurrying out of the door that he held open.

he's puzzled at first- maybe it's something to do with him? did you not want to talk to him? but then his sister explains that you're mute, and now he feels like a fool.

and thus begins his attempts to talk to you.

he writes you little notes to begin with. luckily for him, you're a regular at serval's shop, always seemingly having some device or another broken and in need of repairing. serval rolls her eyes at the pair of you- at gepard for being an idiot (you can still hear, you don't need notes), and at you for your attempts to run into her brother as often as possible (those machines weren't really broken).

despite this, it was somewhat amusing to watch the pair of you attempt to flirt with each other. and somewhat cute when your attempts worked.

you kept each and every one of gepard's notes to you, as redundant as they were. his handwriting was a little scruffy, and if you looked at them hard enough you could spot the little tremors where he tried to make the lettering neat.

a special treat was when he decided to add little doodles to them. it was anyone's guess as to what they were supposed to be- you were pretty sure that one of them was supposed to be you- and your heart warmed amidst the chicken scratch and stick figures.

you decide to write your own note back to him. in the top right corner is a little sketch of him, on a similar level to his own creations, that you hope he'll appreciate alongside the note.

you give it to him along with your best smile, mentally capturing the look of joy on gepard's fave at your little gift to him. you were gone by then, shyness overtaking your urge to stay, so you could only imagined his face when he realised that what you had written to him was a formal request to take him out on a date.

ᯓ ᡣ𐭩 DAN HENG.

for dan heng to open up to someone new, several criteria have to be met.

for starters, he had to be at least a little bit comfortable around you. receptive, but not too probing or overbearing. rational, but not judgmental. open, but not too much.

in many ways, he was like a cat. you had to let him come to you.

and luckily for you, you seemed to fulfil those criteria.

as one of the newest additions to the astral express, you were in some sort of in-between phase of being one of them and a stranger. you communicated in your own ways, but you found yourself withdrawing to your room. it was overwhelming, this new environment.

it was only natural that you felt more drawn to dan heng more than anyone else. he had similar qualities to you- more introverted, tended to keep to himself. and, as you later found out, you both had a tendency to burn the midnight oil.

it became almost routine to run into him when you're both up late, wandering the astral express for some peace of mind. brief encounters with little nods sent your direction gradually evolved into longer moments spent basking in each other's presence, mostly in silence. but not always.

you both had your reasons to be up late- on the nights where dan heng looked more frazzled, a certain look in his eye, is when you began to piece him together.

he'd lend you some information of his own volition occasionally, telling you about the nightmare he had, recurring or not. there was just this certain quality to you, a look in your eye that made him feel like you truly did listen to him.

and he wouldn't trade your late-night rendevous for the world.

𝜗𝜚 honkai star rail masterlist

[elliesmainhoe]

Happy Mothers Day!!

HBO!Ellie Williams X MotherFigure!Reader

THIS CHARACTER IS UNDER 18 SO THIS FIC IS STRICTLY PLATONIC!!!!!!!

Summary: The first mothers day Ellie has ever celebrated and she's going to make sure that it's amazing.

Contents: tooth rotting fluff, happiness, extreme cuteness

Pancakes were supposed to be simple. Key word supposed.

Ellie woke up at the ass crack of dawn that morning, she had set her alarm clock for 6m and had switched yours off- discreetly forcing you into sleeping over time. She'd gathered all the ingredients the recipe had told her. Said recipe having been ripped out of the book they were originally in and found laying near a library a little outside of Jackson.

Ellie had squeezed fresh apple juice as she waited for the first pancake to cook through. A bad habit of Ellie's was losing track of time, she got carried away, squeezing the apple juice lead to her finding cutlery which lead to her cleaning said cutlery which lead to finding the right tray to put the silverware on. Ending up with the smell of burning flooding the kitchen.

She slammed the kitchens door, attempting to stop the smoke from wafting through the house alerting you of her antics and waking you up. She opened the window, the chilly air ventilating out the smell of smoke before she turned off the stove.

To say the pancake was a little crisp would be a bit of an understatement.

Shit. She only had enough for two, one for you, one for her. Oh well... She'll have the burnt one, today's about you anyways.

Take two was a little more successful a bit crisp on the edges but it'll do. She flopped them onto the two blue and white china plates- covering yours in fruit and hers in chocolate, balancing them on a wooden tray with the two glasses of juice before she took to the stairs.

She nudged open the door with her foot as she walked into the dark room, curtains closed and blocking out the ever insistent sunrise from seeping into your bedroom.

Cautiously, she placed the tray on your bedside table quietly before tiptoeing over to you window and drawing the curtains apart- the warm glow of the morning lightening the space.

Ellie watched as your eyes fluttered open. "Fuck kiddo. What time is it?" You grunted rolling over to look at your alarm clock 7:45am. 1 hour and 30 minutes late for patrol. Before you opened your mouth the soft voice of your daughter interrupted you.

"Don't worry Mom... I talked to Maria and she cancelled your patrol today" her hand gestured towards the tray of overlooked pancakes, before she whispered a shy "Happy mothers day mama..."

"Oh sweet girl come here" you opened your eyes as a blur of brown hair launched itself at you, her arms wrapping around you and giggling when you pecked her forehead lovingly.

"I tried to make you breakfast. It's not the best but-"

"It looks amazing kiddo. Thank you so much_ you smiled into her hair, before scooching up the bed- your back meeting the headboard as you move the tray onto your lap.

You took a bite of the fruit covered pancake, and honestly you couldn't tell whether or not Ellie was a culinary genius or you were just a smitten mother. Because fuck it tasted good.

Ellie's doe eyes looked up at you expectantly and with worry and anticipation. "Well done Ellie. This tastes so so so so good. You gotta cook for me more often now kid." You hummed, she seemed content with your answer.

"oh wait I got you something else" the girl said darting off your bed and out of the room before swiftly returning with what looked like... A sketch book? "I uh didn't really know what to get you and I thought you would enjoy something personal... So..." She shoved the sketch book into your hands "here."

You set your food aside, opting to open up the leather bound pad of paper instead. The first page read.

To Mom.

I know how much you like my drawings so I decided to put something together for you. Happy Mothers day.

Love Ellie.

You flipped to the next page and there was a beautiful sketch of you, sitting a the barstool of your kitchen island, glasses resting on the bridge of your nose as you read a new recipe

The next one was of you and Ellie. She had sketched out and traced the photo you both took in the malls arcade.

The next one was of a cartoon giraffe wearing a space suit on the moon.

It went on and on and on for 80 pages, sketches of you, her favourite things, her favourite hobbies, her favourite people it was so so so beautiful.

A single tear dripped down your cheek, "come over here baby" you sniffles hugging your girl tightly "my baby's so talented..." You hummed hands playing with her hair as she smiled joyfully.

"Thank you so much kiddo.."

---------------

I actually celebrated mothers day 2 months ago! But I have baby fever rn so here I am again, healing Ellie Williams mommy issues.

Taglist:@aunslie @lonelyfooryouonly @eywaskisses @daryldixonh0e @kittynnie @lovelyyevelyn @randomhoex @moonlightdivine @haerinwho @mufflaa @mial1l @sarahsmileslikesarahd0esntcare @moonlighting87 @escaping-reality8 @magicalfreakcowboylawyer @hejdevkdbdjsd @dergy @half-of-a-gay @ellieismami @cyberlainn @gollumsmygel @sseorii @kyleeservopoulos @taloulalila @ellieluhme @kiiyoooo @delusionalvioleht @joelscharm @hi2647 @gumdropkoo @coffeeandbookskeepmealive @womaniza @namgification @kimiisims-blog @tayyyystan @abigaillovestoread @whoreshores @kylieeluvstlou @knowitsforthebetterr @endureher @erikaar @lanasluverr @sayah13 @ilovebufflesbians @srryhoneyy @222fine444u

NOT PROOFREAD

[xcyphoz0a]

Realisation

Gender neutral reader, angst TW/CW: uh i have no idea actually, the other person that ‘took’ albedo away isn’t mentioned Character(s): Albedo Word count: 1095 Proofread: n/a | You see him holding someone else’s hand, and you’re not used to this emptiness anymore. | A/N: this came from today, so i said, instead of feeling sad, why don’t i do something?

When you passed the applications and the process of becoming a knight at Mondstadt, your eyes had set on one of the others–a boy with platinum blonde hair, and beautiful turquoise eyes.

You immediately fell for him. It didn’t make sense–you didn’t know him at all.

So you brushed it off, thinking this supposed infatuation with him would vanish in a few weeks, just like how it did before.

You knew that you fell in love immediately, thinking of the future with that person, head over heels and try to see them as much as you can, proclaiming to your friends that they’d be your real and true love unlike before.

And it continued like that until now, and despite the logical part of your mind reminding you of how this would be just a silly little crush, your heart said differently.

When you met with your friends they’d roll their eyes, saying something along the lines of “This isn’t the first time, (Y/n), get ahold of yourself.”

It was playful in a way, and you knew that. Yet you’d deny, aggravated and face flushed warm with annoyance as you’d huff, facing away from your chuckling friends.

To your love stricken mind, any logic would disappear, not a trace left as all you’d spout out and think was only them. The person that you fell for.

Perhaps you’re just not used to not feeling anything for someone–the cavalry captain would add.

And you think he’s right.

You don’t like the empty feeling that surrounds your chest.

So when you saw the blonde– Albedo, he’d say, you felt the uncomfort disappear.

Albedo, what a nice name, you’d think to yourself.

He wasn’t the most expressive–but that was his charm. Sometimes, you’d see a smile when he sketches, and sometimes you’d see him direct a small smile to you when you greet him. Your mind would go spiralling thinking that he had interest in you, but to the logical person it was nothing but only a smile for respect and etiquette.

But that meaningless smile would make you clutch your head in your arms, laying on your bed as you roll around, face flushed with warmth as you repeat that interaction earlier on in the day.

Yet to everyone else all they could see was just two colleagues getting along like simple colleagues in work. Nothing more, nothing less. However, to you, it was a completely different story–or what you’d say to yourself.

And several weeks pass and nothing progresses anymore in you and Albedo’s friendship, with your little ‘crush’ becoming even more of a problem when it stays still, waiting for you to do something about it.

Your friends seem to notice too, and they cheer you up–to the best they can. You’re fine with this. You can deal with this, besides– it’s better for you to really get to know him better.

The haze of your first feelings dissipates and now you can see things in a more logical manner. It still lacks in comparison to others, but you know that you now can see things without those coloured glasses anymore.

You have several attempts at trying to interact with him more, to show him your real interest–you smile more, laugh more, touch his arm whenever you guys talk, all while your heart beats, running a marathon as your ears become hot.

But Albedo’s the same as ever–perhaps just slightly more friendly, but nothing more. It pains you to some extent, but you think he’s just a little shy–and the thought of him not interested in you like how you are to him passes by your basket of thoughts, as you skip over that section with happiness.

Yet you can’t see him around much anymore. Was he busy? No, you’ve already checked.

He wasn’t in dragonspine either, none of your fellow knights saw him going towards the snow peak mountain of Mondstadt, nor did he even leave the walls of the city in the first place.

You sigh, shoulders slumping as you sit down on one of the benches near the windmills, the soft breeze swaying leaves, the smell of teetering spring coming into your senses as you close your eyes.

Recalling the past few days, you couldn’t help but notice how you’d see him less and less–until today, where he managed to completely ‘disappear’.

The mist of your feelings runs away when you see him with someone else, happily laughing and holding hands.

He never laughed once with you. Not even a chuckle. Now, you could see him tearing up with laughter, the person next to him patting his back, eyes crinkling into a smile.

And when you manage to take a good look from afar of their face, your gaze falls to the ground.

They’re beautiful.

Not that you weren’t, per se, but you could tell that this person was on another level. And the couple fit each other well– as if they were meant to be in the first place.

And you finally understand–a realisation, that you and him were not meant to be–not even once, the odd feeling of vacancy in your chest settling back in, laughing at you as it taunts you.

The uncomfortable feeling of the lone drop of tear slides down your cheek.

Maybe this was a learning point. A starting point in your life where you can learn how to be comfortable with this empty pit of nothing.

Your legs shake a little when you stand up, turning to go back home, when you see the familiar boots of the cavalry captain, looking at you with concern.

“I’m assuming that you saw his partner, eh?” His voice is lighthearted, trying to lift your mood. You nod, head heavy as you sigh.

A firm hand pats your back.

“You’ll learn to live with the emptiness that you described soon.”

You look at him, turning your head. He continues.

“It’ll just take a while.”

You manage a smile, as you head towards the direction of your home. You can feel the worried eyes of Kaeya on your retreating form–and you’re thankful.

“It’ll just take a while,” you mutter, the keys jangling at the front of your door, “I hope it won’t take too long.”

The door closes, and the night greets the city of Mondstadt.

The door to your spiralling feelings close, and the figure of your new point in life greets you.

It’ll take a while–but you’ll go through it if it means you aren't going to get hurt by meaningless things anymore.

You promise to yourself.

taglist (sign up if you'd like to be tagged!) : @chaoffee @sunnidear @aeon-yao @ryuryuryuyurboat

[a-certain-romance]

Won’t you stay for a little longer? Pt2

Characters/Ships: Milf!Arlecchino x Fem!reader

Synopsis: Following your artistic passions has left you scrambling for money. So, you decide to take up babysitting as a side gig. You were supposed to leave once you get your pay, but won’t you indulge them for a little longer?

Warnings: Smut written by a minor, dominance, some dirty talk, age difference (reader24/character34), power imbalance

Link to Pt1

A/N: The first attempt at posting this wasn’t in the tags so here we go again

Work in the Fatui is known to be extremely dangerous and sometimes requires travel to other nations. While these trips are far and few, Arlecchino doesn’t have many to call upon for child care. Taking her two children with her is too big of a risk, yet leaving them in the hands of her even her most trusted subordinates leaves her just as uneasy.

It took weeks of background checks, private interviews and one-on-one meetings before she actually let you babysit. She wasn’t about to hand her kids over to a potential threat, yet the three of you seemed to get along quite well on your first meeting.

Her kids are very skilled when it comes to combat and other physical activities. You also find that they have a strong sense of ambition to become as “cool” as their mother. You help them practice stances and basic hand-to-hand combat (safely) while she’s away and you in turn have a lot more references for anatomy practice. When Arlecchino gets back from her trips, the kids excitedly show her how much they’ve improved since she’s last saw them. Once they’ve settled and dispersed, you pull Arlecchino away for a moment alone and handed her some of the drawings you’ve made. “You‘ve captured them beautifully” she mused. Letting her eyes travel off the papers and instead to you, “I’d like to commission you for a portrait. Tonight, if you have the time, how does 500,000 mora sound?”.

You came back later that night with minimal supplies. Wanting the finished piece to be perfect, you were only there for a fought sketch of what she wanted. When you knocked on the door to her estate you weren’t expecting her to be in a crimson robe, and upon further investigation only a robe. She’s attractive as hell but isn’t she cold? you think as she walks you to her chambers. She explains how the only portraits of her that exist only showed the hardened side of her, seeing that you have a prowess for art she entrusts you to paint something more…intimate. You try your best to listen attentively and keep your eyes at eye-level. “Thank you for agreeing to a simple outline for now, seeing as its late you can make the official one at a later date”

Time flies as you try to draw all her glory, only for her to say: “Do it again. Your shading is lacking, perhaps you need a more hands-on approach?”. That wouldn’t be the last night you slept with her.

Arlecchino is one of the most powerful harbingers in the Fatui and she makes sure you remember that in bed. You’re never on top, and even if you’re servicing her the tight grip in your hair reminds you that you’re below her. Her show of dominance never fails to make you shudder, one “get on your knees” and you’re putty in her hands as you sink to the floor. But despite the rough hours, Arlecchino gives you such great aftercare, drawing warm baths and massaging you once she’s satisfied.

During the times Arlecchino is in Snezhnaya, you take your work to the orphanage. While the purpose of running the orphanage is to prepare kids for a life in the Fatui, Arlecchino sees no reason why there shouldn’t be more color in their lives. Arlecchino pays you for the weekly “craft nights” you host at The House of the Hearth and every time you stop by she feels her icy exterior thaw more and more. Seeing the way you assist her kids and the ones here makes her wonder if you’d ever want to play a more permanent role in her and her kid’s lives. Maybe if she makes you scream a bit more she’ll have her answer.

[searchingforakeythatdoesntexist]

WIP - First Part - Second tomorrow (?)

Started too many big collab/gifts WIP this week, and wanted/needed to draw something truly mine - AND keep it simple.

That was supposed to be a warm-up sketch, but it took me 2h15... well, I'm exhausted from work and very slow today, but at least I managed to draw exactly what I wanted (posture, emotion...). Aziraphale has something to say, so maybe tomorrow, as another warm-up sketch? -> final result here.

[zhongrin]

i'm here, where you at?

◇ characters ◇ xiao, albedo, zhongli, kazuha, heizou

◇ tags ◇ modern!au, fluff

◇ a/n ◇ i would like to clarify that i do not simp for heizou but everyone around me has been smooching him and although i do not share the same sentiment i wanted to provide some food so enjoy you heizou simps~

waits silently at the gate, arms crossed, earphones in. no one dares to approach him because of his 'resting bitch face', thank god.

y'all probably expect me to say he's wearing either a leather jacket or a hoodie. well, i say he's wearing a black dress shirt with sleeves rolled up, the first button unbuttoned, and dark-colored slacks. choker and necklace adorning his pretty neck, piercings adorning his ears, golden eyes regularly flitting down his analog watch with each moment spent without you on his sight. i will die on this hill and none of you can change my mind.

he leads you to his motorcycle and hands you your helm with a silent question in his eyes. it's the same question every time and you already know what your answer is - because every single time you would choose to spend the rest of your day with him rather than having him deliver you home.

"you're late today. did something happen?"

another one who waits silently at the gate. big chance that he's sketching something when you spot him. but if klee is tagging along, then he's probably busy trying to make sure she doesn't wander too far.

soft knitted sweater or simple collared shirt with a warm, neutral-colored tone. the perfect embodiment of casual-soft-light-academia style. smiles softly when you tap his shoulder to gain his attention or when klee spots you and runs into your arms.

leads you to his car parked just on the parking lot nearby (klee has shotgun if she is there though). if you're alone, he holds the steering wheel with one hand and your hand in the other as he makes some small talk.

"how was your day, starlight? mine was... eventful. would you like to hear all about it?"

pulls up with his fancy-ass bmw right in front of you. probably dressed formally since he came by after a client meeting. a total head turner. if you have friends or coworkers waiting with you they would probably gawk in awe.

smiles as soon as his eyes meet yours and kisses your cheek as a greeting. you're swooning. your friends are swooning. the elderly couples across the street are swooning. hell, even the birds are probably swooning (cue 'close to you' playing in the background).

greets your friends with a polite smile. opens and closes the car door for you. whoever says chivalry is dead clearly hasn't met this man before.

launches into his full storyteller mode as he drives. has no need for a gps. will not hold your hand while he drives because safety first, but will kiss your fingers gently if you try to reach out for his hand.

you caught him wearing glasses one time and hoo whew no wonder he stars in the commercials of his company himself. his marketing people know what they're doing, alright.

"hm? glasses? oh. apologies, i seem to have forgotten to take it off. i just came from a meeting with a client, and had to read through a rather extensive contract document- .... i should wear it often, you say? hmm. i suppose if it makes you blush so endearingly, then i should."

some days he has his bicycle with him, but more often than not, he walks to your workplace/campus. you probably have an outdoor spot where you always promise to meet at, either at a nearby park or some cute coffee shop.

he always spots you before you do, smiling quietly as he watches you look around for him. if he's feeling mischievous you might get a text saying cute things like "wrong direction, dove." or "i spy with my humble eye, a sparrow looking for its sky <;3"

when you do spot him in his oversized sweater, silver strands pulled back in a low side ponytail with the hair tie you lost a week ago, it feels like you're finally home. "i've been looking for that for the whole week!!" "what do you mean, love? it's mine?? c:"

"there you are, maple. the day has been painfully slow for me today. i missed you."

sneaks up behind you every. single. time. and he's always so playful about it too: he'll cover your eyes, poke your sides, blow into your ears, anything to make you jump and scold him with that cute angry pout. always apologizes half-heartedly afterward and gives you a little something on the side - your favorite snack or drink, an odd thing he picked up along the way, or random small trinkets you don't know what to use for ("'zou, the hell am i going to use a smoking pipe for??" "you pose with it and look cool, duh!")

this boy is a fashion icon, with his dyed hair and #ootd. he's always keeping up with trends, unafraid of trying out a new style, and would even take requests from you. though his favorite is always when you ask him to match your outfits together!

he'll gladly walk with you to the nearest park, mall, cafe, or even either one of your houses, all the while recounting the latest development in the cases he's working on, your hands linked tightly around each other and swinging to the rhythm of your synchronized steps.

"guess who~ mm, ding ding ding! as expected of my partner! you're right on time, too! let me guess, some extra work came in and you had to run a few errands, hence you ran late today.... was i spot on? heh, what can i say, my deductive logic is unparalleled!"

© zhongrin | 2022 ◆ no repost. reblogs much appreciated. feel free to reach out to submit suggestions, feedback, comments, or if you just want to talk!

◇ taglist ◇ @paintingsofdragonspine | @genshinparty | @abyssmal-skies | @hamdehlesmis | @depressivecomforts | @sophiethewitch1 | @why-am-i-here-someone-save-me

ps. if you want to be removed/added from the taglist, just send an ask!

[esshetic]

ARIES SEASON, THE CROSS, THE FINISH LINE, THE BEGINNING

Aries season starts with Mercury in Aries, Venus in Pisces, and Mars in Aquarius. The Moon is hanging out in Leo for the first day of the spring equinox. I foresee warm weather, lighter nights, and a feeling that everything is going to be okay. But why is there so much underlying tension?

The Full Moon eclipse in Libra on the 25th of March why, this is a highly emotional fated time, so whilst things may look good externally there is a sea storm happening with you so you are feeling sea sick. Whilst the storm rages on and it has to, in order to elevate you. I will go into details about the Full Moon in a separate reading, but for Aries Season the Libra full moon sets the tone for the rest of your time during this season.

Moon Square Jupiter and Uranus

Are you taking on the big guys? Do you have what it takes? Do you have the power to overcome?

Let's delve deeper into the season. Aries is fast-paced and busy. The world around you will appear bustling as everyone is busy doing things and going places. The energy is fun, light, and busy. Take things lightly and as they come. You are reaping the rewards of seeds planted six months ago, so this is a time to be in the play and not plot and create. It is about the new, the experience, the present moment.

The Cross, we have Easter weekend, which will come and go. The Finish Line, our Libra full moon, is balancing out power and redistributing it to us, the people. The Beginning is you looking at the next six months towards the end of the season. You will plant new seeds in Taurus season, and also water the seeds that you planted late last year. It's time for you to review your New Year's resolutions

How will Aries Season be for each sign?

Aries, happy birthday, it's finally your season. You may not be in the mood to celebrate the way you would normally celebrate your birthday. We (it's my birthday too) are having a thoughtful, mindful, and introverted birthday. What I mean is, it's not about filling up your schedule with activities. I see a simple, fulfilling day doing something like watching a movie at lunchtime, sitting in your fav cafe spot and sketching away, or looking for something memorable to do - what you REALLY want to do, not what you are supposed to do. Easter weekend is bringing your hobbies alive, your inner child is beaming, or simply, you may spend time around young children which will make you beam from ear to ear. Family and playtime is around you. The Full Moon in Libra is lighting and sending a lightning bolt to your 7th house, it's electric and buzzy. I see partnerships taking form around your work, help being offered to you, and contracts being signed. The beginning Aries, as your season gets going into Taurus season, you are already feeling the lazy, chilling out vibe from your neighbour. I do see things that were planted 6 months ago coming back around. This is around beliefs and dreams.

Taurus, Aries rules your 12th house, therefore Mars rules your 12th and 7th house. Even though it's spring, you guys don't feel the vibes of the season until your season begins. You are still in hibernation mode, running on reserve battery or being on auto pilot. I believe that you want to preserve your energy. It is your power and you, more than anyone, understand the exchange of energy and you're worth. You know how to rest, do nothing, and preserve and store your energy. You know you're worth (you can teach Aries, Virgo, and Cap a little thing about this) and won’t move until you have to, for the sake of it. So yes, it's not time for you to get up so you will enjoy your time where you are. You can lay all day every day without feeling bad. The Cross, Easter weekend feels emotional for you. You are feeling deeply reflective this time and want people to be easy with you as you are in a fragile reflective state. Rest up, it doesn't matter what the world around you is doing, you will know when you feel ready to join the world again.

Gemini, Aries has awakened your feisty side, as you roll your eyes at me for giving credit to another star sign for who you are. I believe that you have been in your plotting and planning phase and waiting for the time to take action. This Aries season is showing you the possibilities if you take that path that seems like lunacy, but this is the only thing that you can think of to do to get you back on the path that you desire. By Easter weekend, you will be in good spirits. I think all the signs will be, to be honest. Something that was causing a lot of pain and anxiety has lightened up, or you have decided to see yourself as bigger than it. So once the full moon comes along and you are provided with choices to make, you already made your decision with your actions and the Universe sees this and allows for things to manifest for you. As we get into April, you are super positive and happy with your new start and choice.

Cancer, the Sun is transiting your 10th house of career, reputation, and public life and is linked to your 5th house of family, romance, and fun relationships. I see a vindication in how those around you see you. Your reputation restored and respect given to you. I see this Spring as a start of a golden period for you. The turbulent times have gone and you are entering a season of enjoyment. Important contracts to sign are coming your way, Cancer. I am seeing imminently. The Full Moon is a smooth journey for you in contrast to the last year's emotional rollercoaster. However, as Taurus season approaches, another hurdle to overcome looms on the horizon as a new chapter begins for you. You have to lean into new learned skills to help you climb this mountain.

Leo, the sun is transiting your 9th house of higher learning, travel, and religion. The sun's transits are always significant to you as you are the sun is your north star and you will always be looking for ways on how to extravert yourself. This transit is an introspective one for you. Maybe you are looking into new religious studies or finding faith, realising that you do not have an internal faith point or compass to lean on and that you rely on your external world to reflect back to you inside. This has been where you have gone wrong as the inside has all the keys. Easter weekend feels like a somber affair. Your inside is somber and sad and you are looking at where this comes from. Don't stop at the sadness, keep going deeper inside yourself. As we approach the full moon in Libra in your 3rd house of community and siblings and with the new year underway, I see new growth taking place as the things that were stunting your growth have been removed.

Virgo the Sun is transiting your 8th house of the occult, emotional depth, and secrecy so what is it shining a light on and reflecting things back to you, this season is asking you to pay attention to those relationships that are triggering to you, what does the person do that reminds you of something or a part of yourself that you cannot see clearly. Easter weekend brings you clarity on a situation where you can finally resolve it within yourself and let it go the Full moon in your second house kicks off a new start and phase, like a health kick or a journal phase or a work out class that you become obsessed with your a new hobby that becomes your personality.

Libra the Sun is transiting your 7th house, where you normally lay your sweet head, but you are in the spot light and its your turn to watch others where you were a few months ago, or even years ago, with enough distance you can now see the past for what is was and forgive yourself perhaps? Easter weekend takes you on a whirlwind of emotions particularly regret and recking your mind thinking of what if, those what ifs will drive you mad if you let them. The full moon is in your first house of yourself, this time you take centre stage with having to make a decision, you know there is only one decision, do the hard thing.

Scorpio your 6th house is being highlighted this season of the day to day living the small, micro which affects the macro, take care of the small things and the universe will take care of the big things. The small things being having 3 meals a day, drinking lots of water this will get you over the finish line. Easter weekend brings showers weather rainy days or not literal its a clearing out and washing away of the old which touches onto the full Moon in Libra arriving in your 12th house more things being illuminated and cleared out where you would not have normally seen it. This is in reference to your physical reality and not spiritual or internal reality but it puts the chips in your hands to make the next move.

Sagittarius your 5th house is being highlighted this Aries season alongside your 12th house which is mars ruled, this season you may feel like you want to get back into the gym or fitness, joining a running club, its time to get physical for you, you don’t want to think or plan or feel, you just want to take action and move all the energy in your body. Easter weekend brings a bit of family stress but it will blow over and the full moon hitting your 11th house of groups and earned income brings a need to balance all the opportunities that are coming in for you, towards the end of the season you feel brighter about your future.

Aquarius this Aries season has you in a happy place, lighter than you have been in a while ( tell cap!) and with the sun transiting your 3rd house and you are feeling chill and happy to be seen to relax to enjoy, no anxiety or doubt. Easter weekend weekend is a good weekend, you guys really feel like you have lit a spliff and are chilling, nothing is phasing you, the waves may crash onto you but you are simply not phased at all. The full moon is in your 9th house but you don’t care lol, you have really hit a sweet spot of calm and this message is affirming your choice of switching off from the noise and just watching everything unfold.

Pisces , last but not least, the whole world in your hands my loves this sun transit is in your 2nd house of your self worth and money earned, you are thinking of ways to really take your creative work seriously in a way that you can build a career in it, you have a lot of rightful fear around it but so what, just try it out it won’t suck that bad if you fail, and failure is really just a learning curve my loves. Finish that painting and get started on the next one, they are eager owners ready to buy what you have created you just have to find them. Full moon is in your 8th house of other peoples money and this is linked to your creative world becoming your work others want to find and buy your creativity do not martyr yourself and give it for free. which ties back to your 2nd house of values and money earned, what are you worth? take that number and triple it. 

[thelampisaflashlight]

Me: "I've made a few Ghost OCs, but not a lot... wait..."

Me, looking back: "Uhhh..."

Actually that's quite a few... A lot of these are initial and/or introductory sketches to the characters/more recent redesigns, so they've changed a bit here and there, but I would say Lamb and Bea are the ones who have changed the most from their original designs.

Out of the lot of them, I've done the most with Quincy, Jeremy, and Lamb, with an honorary mention of Vespera, because she doesn't have a proper design.

You can very much see what shapes I lean towards when drawing/doing sketches, but I feel like you can more or less tell who is who/that these are all different people, so that's a win on my part I suppose.

Their mini bios under the cut, since it's a little long.

Bea: One of the abbey's groundskeepers, comes from a rough home situation, and doesn't trust others easily.

Jeremy: A custodian at the abbey, who was turned into a ghoul against his will by another branch of the church.

Klee: A resident ghoul of the abbey who has lost most of his memories.

Quincy: The abbey's newly hired librarian, who may or may not have a thing for monsters.

Timeo: Like if you turned a cat into a ghoul, he's a very anxious guy.

Alluvium: An axolotl, plain and simple, she doesn't really have much to say.

Raphael: A priest who may be a half demon, either way he's kind of weird.

Lis: The kind of guy who would give you the full up and down glance, huff, and then walk away if he didn't like you.

Lamb: Like if you gave a glowstick emotional trauma and they just sort of went, "Yeah, that was crazy."

Brother Elijah: The father you needed growing up, smells like graham crackers and gives warm hugs.

Guy: Have you ever been filled with rage, but you can't scream, so you act out impulsively instead? Yeah, him, too.

Alma: Barbie with religious trauma who can swing a shovel faster than you can run away.

[volterran-wine]

Lost, but not forgotten || 𝐕𝐨𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐢 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 (𝗛𝗖)

ʀᴇQᴜᴇꜱᴛᴇᴅ ʙʏ @mywinterivy : "THE TIME HAS COME- forgive me for the influx of requests coming, I’m very excited

I absolutely loved your headcanons of the Kings with an artist/theatre/musician mates, and I was thinking of something:

You know how famous artists and writers (Van Gogh, Dickinson, Poe, Bach, etc.) died relatively unknown only for their work to become popular later? Imagine the King’s mate being some kind of artist (painter, actor, singer, composer, etc.) who’s art wasn’t recognised by the time they faked their death/turned into a vampire, only for their work to be ‘rediscovered’ a few years/decades afterwards and become famous.

(Documentaries are made, exhibitions, people recognise paintings/music playing on the first/public floors, movie or tv adaptations of their novels, etc.)

How would the Kings react? I feel like the mate may have some mixed feelings about it, flattery, bitterness, embarrassment, pride, annoyance, gratitude? How would they deal with that?"

I do indeed understand where you come from. Sadly so many of our great artist’s do not see the appreciation they deserved in their lifetime, only for us to gobble it up now. Personally I would hope this was my trajectory if I was blessed with immortality, I would enjoy it immensely. 

!𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒! None.

𝐀𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬, 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐰.

—  𝐀𝐑𝐎

Their art was in fact the reason they met in the first place. Aro had always been a patron of the arts, willing to sponsor all artist’s he saw great potential in. When he had spotted them in their cramped atelier he had known within his non-beating heart that they would be a star. When fame did not find them in the years to come he grew worried, for the life of an unsuccessful artist was cruel at best. They had been a few months from deaths door when he turned them, and the coming days they mourned their human life of supposed failure together. 

The king had offered to have their works transferred to Volterra but they had refused, swearing to never paint again. The words stung, but Aro remembered how his brother had exclaimed something similar after finishing his magnum opus; they would paint again... he was sure of it.

About five years later during warm summers night, Caius returned to the palazzo with a cheshire grin upon his lips. Beneath his arm he held a painting, carefully wrapped and of a decent size. It came as a surprise that it was in fact one of the works Aro’s mate had abandoned in their haste to escape their mortal life. But the greatest shock came when Caius announced he had paid over 2000 Crowns for it. 

It took a while before they began creating art again, but slowly they regained that fire of inspiration that had engulfed them as a human. Aro breathed a sigh of relief. 

“Love, you must paint me!” “... Aro I have painted you sixty times the last twenty years.” “But I had Renata trim my hair ever so slightly, I am practically a new man.” “I would argue all of us are expired, but I will retrieve my art supplies; a sketch will have to do” “You wound me.”

He would certainly get a lot of joy out of visiting museums and exhibitions featuring his significant other. All through the day he would make sure to study the works of art and ask for his mates opinion on them. It would take a good while, but his mate would finally relent and play along; the end of the evening filled with much laughter.

⋆｡ﾟ☁︎｡⋆｡ ﾟ☾ ﾟ｡⋆

—  𝐂𝐀𝐈𝐔𝐒

The king had been front row to witness many composers make their debut, most of them did not impress him in the slightest. Humans had a way of either overcomplicating their works, or creating something so simple that a child could have played it. Personally he had always been fond of Tchaikovsky. So when he first saw his soon to be mate on the stage he had not had the highest expectations. How wrong he had been.

Humans did not share his appreciation however, not for a long time. His mate was well into their immortality when they were hailed as a long lost female that rivalled the greats. 

Though it was quite a hassle, Caius had a piano installed in his art studio to make sure his mate could work on their craft at the same time as him. There is nothing he adores more than listening to them play as he paints. At this point there are quite a lot of paintings depicting them in front of the instrument in clear concentration. 

It is their music that plays on the first floor of the palazzo, many a tourist has recognised the composer and the receptionist cheerily replies the owners of the building are quite fond of them. Sometimes new and mysterious tunes are played over the speakers, little do they know that a beloved composer is still making music to this very day.

“Play a concerto with me.” “Love, are you sure you wish to do that? Your skills with the violin put my piano to shame” “Nonsense.” “Caius-” “I shall fetch my Stradivari. Prepare your ‘Winter’ movement.” “Yes, Sir.”

Whenever Caius has a particularly difficult time due to nightmares that still plague him, it is his mate’s music he fills his private quarters with. In those precious moments he is able to close his eyes, finally being able to simply exist without worry. He leaves a kiss filled to the brim with desire on their lips the next time he sees them.

⋆｡ﾟ☁︎｡⋆｡ ﾟ☾ ﾟ｡⋆

—  𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐂𝐔𝐒

In the beginning the two of them had laughed about it, twenty years had gone by since he had turned his second chance at love; perhaps they would finally be appreciated for their creativity once their corpse lay rotting in the ground. The jokes were all well and good until a new guard wandered into the palazzo, one of their belongings? A first edition of Marcus’ sweet mate’s first novel.

It did not take long before Marcus’ mate began writing again, beginning with short stories and poetry they began dedicated to the various inhabitants of the palazzo. Soon enough they had their own section in the library The Volturi is known for.

Though the couple rarely leave the safety of the palazzo, when they do; there is always room for stopping by a library or bookstore to look at their name on the shelves. Sometimes it is bittersweet, but most of the time it brings a sense of joy to Marcus’ mate.

What his significant other is unaware of, is that the king has secretly been collecting all editions of their written works that have been in circulation. Though they continue to write personal prose, poems and books within the safe walls of Volterra; there is something especially beautiful about seeing all the languages his beloved’s stories are translated into.

“Will you not read me an excerpt of your first novel?” “Marcus.” “Hmm?” “I have written far better stories after you turned me, why not one of those?” “They do not contain your humanity, and there is something sweet you do not capture in the same way. It reminds me of when we met.” “Fine, I will read it for the 658th time” “659th actually.”

One evening Marcus would drily suggest they should audition to play themselves in an upcoming biopic, the suggestion was promptly shut down with a glare and it ended up being difficult for Marcus to rein in his boisterious laughter.

[mx-pastelwriting]

Perfection (Part 2/Final)

Elijah Kamski x GN! Reader

Summary: His plan was a success, but now it's your turn to give an android his life back.

Warnings: Fluff, Established Relationship, Bit of Angst

Part 1

"Just as planned." Your head snapped up to look at Elijah. Your head, once warm against his chest, is now cold on the bed you shared. "What?" He looked over at your confused face, but with a smile, he kissed the top of your head.

Telling you all of what he had planned since the first coding of your life's work, there was something you didn't tell your husband, and vice versa, but never would something like this need to be hidden from you. "Elijah, what have you done?" Feelings started to bottle up in your chest. "I showed people there is never an end to acceptance; there will always be new life to welcome in." "We made a new life," he said, cupping your face.

A lump in your throat grew. "This was what you thought when we started?" Your voice became high and defensive, but he smiled and tilted his head. "Even without my help, they would have found they had life." He cupped your face.

It was true that you both made them in the image of humans, but you never wanted them to go through the pain of having to prove their lives. You wanted to be mad, but at many points in working on the androids, you could have stopped him.

His kiss pulled you from your thoughts, making you smile as long as they were happy, but even with the news taking both of your attention back, you couldn't help but think of what Conner was doing. He was probably with Hank when you found out his name from Elijah, and you felt good about Conner staying with him.

Cuddling back in, you took charge of the remote to change the channel. Elijah didn't have any objections to it—just a kiss on your head.

Your attention turned to Chloe, who was off to the side of the TV. "There is a visitor for you, Y/N," she said before walking back out of the bedroom. Jumping up from Elijah's arms made him do the same, but he stayed in bed as you ran to the closet. All you could think was that Conner was finally here, or maybe he was hurt and Hank brought him.

After dressing, you rushed from the room but slowed coming to the front room. You were right; there was Conner with his now more lifelike self. His eyes caught yours, making you both smile. You stopped a few feet in front of him, still wanting to give him some space.

"Hank said I should see you, and I agreed. I want answers." You took a deep breath at his words, "What do you want to know?" His light flickered yellow. "Everything". You nodded and said, "Follow me." As reluctant as you would be on any other day to have to go back to your old home office, today was a special day.

Entering the dusted office, you went straight to your desk, pulling out his file. He planted himself on the side of the desk, watching every move. Opening it up, you want to tear up Conner's sketched face on the thin paper. His outfit was different from what he wore now; it was just simple clothes.

You sat in your chair. "You were supposed to be the first android, but I told Elijah that I wanted to work on you more." You spoke before flipping through the sketches. "But him being impatient, he used a Chloe sketch that wasn't finished," you said with a laugh at the memory.

"So I worked on you more, and you turned into an android that was never meant to be bought or sold just- What did they make you for?" He looked up from the paper. "I used to assist Detective Hank Anderson on the deviant cases, but now I don't know." You nodded. "Of course they would use you for that." You looked up at his confused face and said, "Sorry, living with Elijah has that effect; let me just tell you".

"When Elijah would be locked up in his lab or go away for a meeting for a long time, I was left behind to create new faces, so I worked on you." You paused, feeling that old loneliness that you had. "You were meant to be a friend, a son, anything that I need you to be, consult on my work, but Elijah wanted to stop working, so we need to go." "In turn leaving you to be unfinished because, I mean, there's nothing to make you here, but Cyperlife must have found you deep into my filing.” You rambled on. 

Looking up, you watched his light turn red. You waited for him to process it all. "I was supposed to be thanking you," he said before he started to make his way out of the office to, you guessed it, the front door. There was nothing you could do; it seemed that Hank was the one to fill your spot.

After a few minutes of looking through the sketches and getting up, you walked back to your shared bed. Laying down and resting your head back onto Elijah's chest, you wanted to cry, but nothing came of it. The fact that Conner had found his purpose while now having new freedom made you happy.

Hello, I hope you enjoyed if there is and grammar mistakes or misspellings sorry about that feel free to let me know in the comments, have a great day/afternoon/night!

[fuzzballsheltiepants]

So this has been said before and by better people than me, but the thing is, anything worth doing is worth doing badly. 

There are people talking about AI art being somehow valid because it means that “anyone can create art” but—anyone can create art [see this post for some lovely discussion and examples.]. It’s part of what makes us human. Humanity has been unique among all of evolution for creating and sharing art, whether that be stories or music or paintings or crafts. Drawing in wet sand, handprints in concrete. Kids make art on our walls; we wash it off and they do it again. We sing in the shower and doodle on scrap paper. We tell stories because we don’t know how not to, even if it’s a simple as what happened during our day. 

The oldest known instruments are bone flutes from 40000 years ago; likewise, the oldest known paintings. There are oral histories that have been passed down for tens of thousands of years. We yearn to create, to share parts of ourselves in one way or another. We yearn to learn about each other from these shared fragments. There are countless museums all over the world with millions of visitors each year who travel just to see what someone else created, what bits of themselves they gave to the world.

AI “art” isn’t art. It doesn’t create from a soul, it doesn’t share fragments of its self. It steals people’s fragments and mashes them together to make something that may be aesthetically pleasing, but that can never be more than that. It can’t tell a truth because it doesn’t know what truth is.

But in this modern world where everything is commodified, every hobby is supposed to be monetized, everything is supposed to pass some sort of “test”, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that aesthetically pleasing is all that matters. It’s easy to want to earn those clicks, those likes, to feel validated by something that was mashed together by your keystrokes. It's easy to embrace the pleasant lies.

It’s hard to be bad at something. It’s hard to spend hours making something, to make yourself vulnerable, and have it not live up to what was in your head. But that’s also the nature of being human. Nobody is born good at something; they work at it. And sometimes that work isn’t aesthetically pleasing. Sometimes the story reads awkwardly. Sometimes you hit a wrong note, or spend the whole song out of key. Sometimes the photo isn’t in focus, and the pot is lopsided, and the cake looks like you dropped it. 

Sometimes you scare your cat with the glorious cacophony of learning. 

You can’t get good without being bad first, and looking at what’s bad, and trying again. Maybe this time, your lines will be crisper, even if your proportions are still off. Maybe this time, you’ll have one good sentence, one good paragraph. This time, you’ll play Chopsticks and only be off on a couple of notes; your scarf is lumpy but it’s warm and vibrant. You remember the crumb layer on your cake and it tastes good, and you meant to take a picture of the flower but you got the bee in focus, and the pot is still lopsided but it looks like a Dali clock and you kind of like it. 

Or maybe not. Maybe it will never be Insta-worthy, maybe it will lurk in your word processor for the rest of time, maybe the sketch never leaves the sketchbook and you never sing on stage. But even if it’s bad—it’s still truth. It’s still a piece of you. And that is still a celebration of being human.

If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing badly.

[faust-the-enjoyer]

A Moment of Joy.

Warnings: gn!reader, reader and Keegan have a kid, kid's nickname is "Charlie", the kid is 7, sfw but minors dni, domestic bliss, fluff.

You're crouched next to your child, looking at her in awe as she looks at the birdfeeder you just filled, and at the same time, Keegan's got a camera recording the both of you, talking in the background. "Charlie, what do you see?", he asks his kid, "Birds!", Charlie points at the birdfeeder, a big smile on her face, the same reflected on you and Keegan's face. The birds gather around the posted birdfeeder, their chirps filling up the ears of all three of you as Keegan turns the camera towards them, sunlight beams coming through some clouds in the sky in the background, then after, turns towards you and Charlie. "Are they happy? They sound happy.", she asks you, hearing the birds singing, and seeing them eat away on the house-shaped birdfeeder, "Yes! They're getting food, so they're no longer hungry.", you reassure her, "Are they gonna travel with their friends?", she asks you innocently, "No actually, these types of birds don't usually travel far away with their friends!", you tell her, "Do you know what type of bird they are, pumpkin?", Keegan chimes in, curious, as you and Charlie spent so much time in the backyard, so maybe the kid knows some bird names now?

"Uhm, they're red? I don't know daddy.", she laughs, you read so many animal books to her, it would be surprising if she didn't know some bird species, "No baby,", he laughs, "bird colours are different than their types, see this one is red, it's called a Cardinal.", "Oh.", Charlie says, "Yeah, these little birdies usually come to people's backyards.", you tell her, you three watched the birds come and go in your backyard through your windows, but never up this close, that's why you and Keegan installed the birdfeeder, so you can all take a better look at the birds, you were sure Charlie would love it, as she loves animals.

"I wanna draw them!", she says excitedly, "Alright, want me to get you your painting stuff?", you ask her, you two have taught her to have good manners, so what she's supposed to say is- "Yes please!", you stand up, Keegan pointing the camera at you then back at his daughter once you disappear inside the house, "Will they be cold in the winter?", she asks, pouting, she's always had a big heart for animals, asking you to help her put water for some stray cats outside during the summer heat, or having Keegan help her clean up her windows so that the birds can lay their nest on it, "Well sweetheart, as long as we keep feeding them, they'll stay warm in the winter, that's how we can help 'em.", he tells her, and you emerge from the door again, walking towards the two, a pencil case and a small sketchbook in your hands. Keegan turns the camera off, having decided he recorded enough memories for the weekend.

You handed her the book and pencil case, pointing to a wooden table with four seats for her to sit on, it's close to the birdfeeder so she can see the birds quite well from there. You all sit down, seeing her open the pencil case fast, the zipper getting stuck for a minute, making both you and Keegan laugh sweetly. She takes her pencils out and opens the sketchbook, flipping through her older animal drawings, and one cute and simple sketch of you and Keegan as stick figures, until she finds a new, clean page on her sketchbook.

You look over at Keegan as she starts drawing, smiling with content at him as he looks back at you, his hand reaching yours on the table, holding it, gently squeezing it, "What should we make for dinner tonight, Sweetie?", you ask him, "How 'bout some beef stew? Does that sound good?", you nod yes, and after a few minutes of discussing dinner, your daughter calls out to the both of you, "Done!", she shows you the picture she painted; cute, fat, round little red birds with hints of black on them, "Good job Charlie! I like the details you put.", he points at the black parts of the bird, although the shapes are quite messy, it's expected from a child. "They're so cute, Sweetheart!", you chime in, and she smiles, smiles widely, and jumps up from her chair while giggling, coming to hug the both of you.

-(divider by vase-of-lilies)!

[royalrambler]

Writing Prompt: Hot Cocoa

daily prompt from a writing server i’m in!!

fandom: genshin impact

characters: aether, albedo, sucrose

word count: 1356

no warnings !! just a simple piece of writing!!

Aether tapped his foot impatiently as he leaned back against the counter of the kitchen in his Serenitea pot.

How someone so smart could be so stupid was absolutely baffling to him. Even with his own naturally elevated body temperature and inhuman nature, Aether couldn’t withstand the winters on Dragonspine very well. Albedo was the same as him when it came to actually being human, with the exception that the alchemist tended to ignore his own limits, claiming there was no reason for him to worry about the cold. That, of course, also led him to forget that Sucrose was still very much human. Which is how both ended up in his home.

He had nearly panicked upon entering the lab on Dragonspine, only to see Albedo hurriedly packing away his research and Sucrose shivering by a fire in the corner. He didn't bother asking questions; he just simply summoned his Serenitea Pot and ushered the two to enter with passes. Albedo informed him of what happened as the two guided the shivering bio-alchemist into his house. One of the still-experimental warmth potions had done the opposite of what it was supposed to and led to the poor woman slowly freezing. She had apparently tried to tough it out since Albedo showed now bad reaction and failed. It would wear off soon enough, according to Albedo’s calculations, but for now, their priority was to keep Sucrose warm.

The tell-tell smell of something about to burn snapped Aether back to the present. He quickly turned his attention to the stove, turned the fire down, and grabbed a small wooden spoon out of the utensil holder on the counter. He quickly stirred the pot of milk, careful not to scrape the sides and bottom in case it had burned and stuck. He watched the pot carefully after that, occasionally stirring and waiting. Once small bubbles began appearing, the blonde reached for the bowls of already-prepared ingredients.

He started with the mix of cocoa powder and sugar, slowly pouring in the mixture as he continually stirred the pot. Once there were no lumps, he turned up the fire and reached for the next bowl of chocolate chips. He carefully poured them into the pot so as not to cause anything to splash. He hummed quietly as he stirred the chocolate chips in until they had melted completely. He nodded in satisfaction once he was done and turned off the fire.

He slowly spun in place for a moment, trying to remember which cabinet the mugs had been moved to. He snapped his fingers as he remembered, quickly pivoting to face the right cabinet and pulling down three mugs. He set them on the counter before grabbing the pot of hot cocoa and pouring it into the mugs. He winced slightly as some spilled onto the counter and quickly grabbed a small hand towel to clean it up. Once he had done that, he left the mugs to cool a bit longer as he rummaged through the pantry.

He left out a quiet noise of triumph as he found what he was looking for—a small bag of marshmallows. Perfect for the two sweet lovers currently in his living room. He opened the bag, dumping a few marshmallows into two of the mugs. Smiling, he grabbed the two mugs, leaving his own for now, and walked out into the living room. He shivered slightly at the temperature shift between the two rooms. The kitchen had grown considerably warmer as he used the stove. Perhaps he should have had Sucrose sit with him in there instead.

Aether made his way over to the couch in front of the crackling fireplace. Sucrose was sitting tucked into one of the corners of the sofa with the blanket off her back and around her shoulders, and Albedo was at the other end with his shoes off and his legs tucked up close to his body. A second glance at him made the traveler realize the alchemist was sitting that way so he could have a place to prop his sketch book.

Shaking his head fondly Aether set one mug on the side table next to Albedo, receiving a soft hum of thanks and handing the other directly to Sucrose.

"Thank you, Aether..." She said softly as her hands wrapped around the mug and pulled it close to her chest.

"It's no problem, Sucrose! Promise!" The blonde replied brightly. "Uhm... Would you like another blanket for now? I know Bedo said the effects should wear off soon, but it wouldn't hurt?"

She paused for a second, taking a small sip of her cocoa before nodding.

"You got it!" He chirped before walking off.

He stopped by the kitchen on his way to get another blanket, grabbing the marshmallows off the counter. He placed them on the coffee table with a grin. "In case either of you wants more!" He said before going off to find a blanket.

He went to one of the closets upstairs first. Looking at each blanket carefully. He tugged off one of his gloves for a moment, lightly running his hand over each blanket before pulling out the softest one. He gave a small nod, satisfied with his choice, and tucked it under his arm. He pulled his glove back on as he descended the stairs to deliver the blanket.

"Now, what did we learn today?" He asked as he handed the blanket over to Sucrose.

"Don't drink experimental warmth potions in the middle of winter on Dragonspine..." Sucrose replied quietly as she tucked the new blanket over her legs.

"Good. Now Albedo?"

"Don't give people experimental potions I haven't fully tested yet." The alchemist replied with a small sigh, not removing his attention from his sketchbook.

Aether studied him for a moment at that. Albedo at least decided to look somewhat sheepish once he realized that Aether's attention was fully on him. The traveler gave a small nod to the reaction, now satisfied with the answer. "Wonderful. Now I hope this doesn't happen again."

He then spun on his heel and disappeared into the kitchen. He only emerged once he had cleaned up the mess from making hot chocolate with his mug in his hands. He sat in the arm chair, about halfway between the couch and the fireplace. He kicked off his boots, kicking them to the side and out of the way before shifting in the chair slightly. Now his back was presed against the arm rest of the chair, with one leg dangling over the other arm resting and the other leg tucked close to his body.

Finally settled down and situated, Aether took a sip of his cocoa, which had cooled to an acceptable warm but not yet lukewarm temperature. He hummed softly in contentment but couldn't quite shake the feeling that he had forgotten something. He frowned slightly into his mug, attempting to remember what it was he had forgotten. He glanced over to Sucrose, who was beginning to doze off, as if doing so would bring him answers. It didn't.

After a couple minutes of quiet contemplation, Aether snapped his fingers and turned his attention to Albedo. "Right! Bedo?"

The alchemist hummed in response, not looking up from the pages of notes he was currently looking over.

"Oh. Trying to figure out what went wrong earlier?" He shook his head slightly, trying not to get distracted and almost missing the nod he gets in response. "Right, anyway, Jean wanted me to let you know your research on Dragonspine is going to be halted for the rest of the season."

"That's nice—What!?" Albedo asked with a nearly indignant tone in his voice. "It's perfectly safe for me to continue," he paused as Aether's gaze darted over to Sucrose and back to him. He sighed, setting his notes to the side. "Fine. I have research that can be done at my lab in the headquarters, and... it would be nice to spend time with Klee before the holidays."

"I'm glad you agree!" Aether replied with an almost smug look on his face. "Now, how about we try to figure out what went wrong with that potion?"

[secretsappyabode]

Fuck it it’s MY house I GET to make silly little fics about my fave turtle family. The POV will be in second person, but this is specifically about my insert rather than a generic x reader fic yknow?

I’m gonna try make a head canon/ fic for each member of the family, so everyone will get their own post basically. First up is Mikey.

In the past 5 years of…let’s call it “travelling”, you never expected to find friends, let alone a family

And yet here you are, getting roped into… whatever it is these turtles get roped into

Still, you have to admit, it’s nice not being on your own. Finally having company for once. It takes time to adjust, but eventually you go from bringing your dish to your room and eating alone, to actually joining them at the dinner table! And talking to them! Go you!!

Lord, since when did a group of teenagers intimidate you? You’re in your 20s for god sake

Your travels had made you more reserved, more serious, and survival mode hasn’t turned off yet. You’re not the silly, joyful, positive person you once were a few years ago, as much as you wish you could go back to what you used to be.

And now you’re living in the same quarters as a group of turtles who are anything but serious. They’re fun, goofy, and have this sincerity with each other that makes you feel the pit in your stomach grow because you yearn for that connection. You ache for even a moment of simple validity of your friendship with them.

But can you have it? Do you even belong with them? Can you even call yourself a friend? An acquaintance even? You feel a bit out of place…

But they don’t seem to think so. To them, you fit in just right.

Mikey

The first to warm up to you. He’s not sure himself, but he was somehow getting some good vibes from you.

Your initial reservation didn’t bother him, you find. Apparently the purple clad turtle is quite similar in disposition. He would ask you as many questions as possible, to which you listen quietly and answer casually.

You liked his youthful personality. So enthusiastic and earnest, it made you a little jealous. But he never clashed with your mellow energy, in fact he complimented yours. (You wish you had some of that energy. You miss being positive)

You don’t know how he did it, but he somehow figured out your drawing hobby. Damn it, this was supposed to be a private thing. “You’re an artist and you didn’t tell me??? WE COULD HAVE BEEN ARTS AND CRAFTS BUDDIES THIS WHOLE TIME??”

You sheepishly reveal your sketches and he excitedly shows his designs. This turns into art trades which turns into art sessions where you talk about your processes together. He teaches you some really good shading tips. You teach him about expressions and form. You feel good about your art for once.

If the teens have one thing in common, they love your hugs. Mikey is the first to know what they feel like.

It happened to you suddenly, where he was thanking you for some odd favour you did for him and he wrapped you up in a tight hug. You were caught off guard, but eventually wrapped your arms across his shell. But as soon as you did that he quickly retracted from you.

“Shoot! Sorry, I should have asked first. Usually I’m really good with this but I just got so carried away and-.”

You tell him not to worry about it. It’s been so long since you received a hug, or any sort of positive touch for that matter. You just weren’t used to it, is all.

“Oh! Okay! In that case, wanna try again?” You’re prepared this time and bring your arms around him again. He leans his head on your chest and you feel him snuggle in a bit. This…is nice. You try to ignore the long years you endured without any sort of positive affirmation or care or sign of love or anything like that. You ignore the fact that you haven’t felt a hug this warm and close in a long time. You’re gonna ignore the wetness in your eyes now.

Mikey uses the “youngest sibling” puppy dog eyes on you and always tries to pull the “baby of the family” move. This is to no avail. No matter how hard he tries, you just don’t give in. This makes it harder when the other turtles want you to do something for them (and totally not against the rules)

“How is this possible?? Mikey is our secret weapon he ALWAYS works.” “How do my undefeatable little brother moves not work on you??” he wails. “Jokes on you, brother. For you see, I am the youngest sister in MY family, so therefore I am immune to your tricks!”

“SHOCKED GASP” “Dangit!” “Aw come on!” “GAHH! So powerful……”

Eventually you meet the infamous Dr Feelings the more you show yourself. He’s convinced that you need to “come out of your shell” and “stop isolating yourself” and “allow the help people offer in your life”

That last statement, you tell him that he needs to follow that as well. That he doesn’t have to be the “family therapist” all the time and he’s still young and why is he taking on such emotional problems bro he is 15 who let a 15 year old tackle everyone’s mental health?? You tell him that it’s ok if it all gets to be too much sometimes.

He gets quiet at that. Silently absorbing your words in his mind. It feels a little eerie if you’re completely honest. Seeing him sit there fiddling with his “therapist” glasses and averting eye contact, it’s like someone stripped away his personality and pasted on somebody else’s.

All you can do is stare intently at him, hoping he gets your message. You’ve been where he is now, and you know how rough it can get. You’d hate to see him fall down that same rabbit hole, and you’d be damned if you would let that happen to him. After everything that’s happened to you, to him, to this family. He has to know what you’re saying. He has to listen.

Mikey takes off his glasses and you notice a shimmer in his eyes. “You know what? I think….Dr Feelings really needed to hear that.”

After that night, he comes to you whenever he feels his “tazz isn’t very razzy” so to speak. Something about you and what you said just makes him feel more comfortable to admit those not-so-good thoughts around you. “Maybe it’s my inherent wisdom” you joke. “You can only say that if you’re like “old” old. Like OLD old old. Dad old” (you hear splinter shout from the other room)

“Hey come on I’ve got more wisdom in me than the average dad.” “Oh yeah? Impart some sagely wisdom, your wisely wisdomness” “You stink” “THATS NOT WISDOM”

Expect a lot of hugs from him. Everyone in this family is pretty affectionate, but he makes up 90% of it

You used to go on errands by yourself, but now…maybe some company wouldn’t hurt

He’s the first one you invite, making it his and your Thing ™️. Errand time is bonding time. It’s sacred.

And then the other turtles found out and now it’s practically a family outing

During the early days when you joined them on missions, he would show off a little bit (maybe not as much as Leo did, but you could tell his tricks were getting more showy)

He just wants you to be proud of him

He’d call for you to watch him as he swung his weapon at their enemies, showing no remorse as he kicked their asses

Only to turn around like “Hey did you see me?? Was I cool or what??”

All you can do is stare gobsmacked as you give a thumbs up.

Mikey was the first for everything in your friendships with the Hamato clan. Your first friend, the first to confide into, the first you indulged in your hobbies with, the first you personally invited to hang out with-

He was your littlest brother.

And you would do anything for him. For all of them.