#cereza's writing

[fl3shm4id3n]

ᵢₜ wₐₛ ₒₙₗy ₐ ₘᵢₙᵤₜₑ

𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: 𝐘𝐨𝐮'𝐯𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐛𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫, 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬, 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐮𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐢𝐦. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐧.

ꜰɴᴀꜰ x ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ, ꜰᴏxʏ x ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ (ᴘʟᴀᴛᴏɴɪᴄ), ꜰᴏxʏ x ꜱɪꜱᴛᴇʀ! ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ (ᴘʟᴀᴛᴏɴɪᴄ)

Tw: Spoilers? Missing children, child abduction, mentions of death, FNAF stuff, slight mental illness, mentions of getting committed, a bit emotional with an almost good ending?

A/N: I choose Foxy because he is my favorite both in the game and movie. Hope ya'll like this fic.

Masterlist

You were just gone for a moment, you had to use the bathroom, you thought that he'd be okay with the other kids. When you came out, he was nowhere to be seen. You looked for him everywhere, in the arcade, the ball pit, the bathroom. Then you heard that other kids also went missing. The police got called, you told your mom what happened. You were growing scared and desperate to find your brother. But weeks turned to months, and months turned to years. The police just stopped looking because they didn't find anything. No suspicious activities or of that sort. No one was found and they didn't even find one single body. It was as if they vanished like thin air. But you? You didn't stopped, you didn't plan on stopping until you found what happened to your brother.

Not only that, but your dreams got all sorts of weird. You had always dreamt of the same thing. You were at the Pizzeria, stepping out of the restroom, wearing the same clothes as you did that day, except the place would get darker and more sinister. The people around you have become faceless and the music sounded much more dimer. You'd spot your brother for a moment, then he'd vanish into thin air. Every time that would happen, you'd call out to him. Screaming his name around the pizzeria. You'd also hear a voice, it sounded robotic. It would always spell out something that you couldn't quite catch. But there were some letters that you could make out. 'C...O...M...E... F...I...N...D M...E...'. You were never able to hear it clearly, it sounded like a broken cassette tape. Then you'd wake up. The dream went on for years, you never really dreamt of anything else. If you did, it would always be something that happened in your childhood, evolving your brother. A lot has changed since he turned out missing.

Now it was the early 2000's, you were already an adult. Working a nine to five job at a Target at the mall and living with your mom still. That early morning, you've woken up from that dream. Again, that same dream. You walking out the bathroom, still wearing that outfit you wore that day and the place was full of faceless people and that music. God that music made shivers run down your spine. You did what you'd always do, look for your brother. It always ended with with you entering the main lobby, near the small single stage. And again, that voice. 'C...O...M...E... F...I...N...D M...E...'. You never could make out what he was saying. Then you'd wake up. You didn't understand it. You never understood it. You got ready for work. You put on your red polo shirt with your name tag and your light brown kaki pants. Before you left the room, you looked at a picture sitting in your night stand. It was of you and your brother, on his birthday. You remembered that summer how he had a pirate themed birthday party. He loved pirates. You remember how he would walk around with a black eyepatch and a hook on his right hand. You would even play with him when your mom would be out working late. You always choose to be a mermaid or the villain in his games. You missed those times.

Besides that, you never really planned on going to school for anything. That was the last thing you would be worried about. So you decided to work, maybe save up enough money to maybe hire a private investigator or someone who can help you find something. Now you were at work, doing what you'd normally do. Just helping customers and ringing them out. It was just a regular day. It felt slower than most days. You heard from your coworkers that a security guard got fired, before he punched a guy who he mistook as a kidnapper. If you were in his situation, you'd probably do the same. Now a-days you didn't know who you could trust or you couldn't even look away from a moment because something could happen with a blink of an eye. It was understandable, at least to you.

You've been invited to do things with your coworkers, except you've declined. Always telling them that you were busy or you just didn't feel like going out. It was hard for you to make friends, you had basically isolated yourself from everyone when your brother turned up missing. You never really tried to make friends again. This worried your mom. Since you'd only go to work, go home, eat and sleep. It was a repeated cycle. She had talked to you about going to see a therapist. But you always declined. You didn't want to go and talk to somebody about how after many years you're still on the hunt for your brother. They'll probably medicate you or get you committed into an asylum. You you avoided that topic.

After work, you were back home. In your room, looking through your book. This book had news paper articles, along with police reports, pictures and other things that you've kept for years. This was your kind of evidence that you kept. You'd study these stuff day and night, for the last couple of years. You never gave up. Not only that, but you've tried asking the owner of the place 'William Afton' if you could go into the place to investigate, except the guy never picked up the phone or responded to your letters. You've even tried to get the job as a security guard, but Steve Raglan, who was a career counselor didn't give you the job. He'd always say that. 'It wasn't good for your mental health' or that 'He needs someone who's more calm and collected'. What he probably meant was that he needed someone who wasn't crazy.

You were busy looking at the old, now yellow news paper. Re-reading the article about the missing kids. You've read it many times by now, you might even memorize it. Then you heard someone knock at your door, then they came in. It was your mom. Who had a face of worry. "Y/n? Have you ate anything?" She asked, looking over you saw that she still had her work uniform on, she must have got back. "No, not yet." You responded, then she got closer. Seen what you were reading. She let out a sigh, as if she was exhausted of some kind. "Again? Y/n, we've been over this." She said, then you looked over at her. "I know, but... I just got to find something." You added to her.

She looked at you, seen the dark circles under your eyes. Indicating that you didn't get much sleep. "Baby, it's been years." She said, while looking at you. "You just... have to accept that he isn't coming back." She said sadly, as if she didn't want to say it, but she did. "I know... I just... want to know what happened to him.. or at least who took him.." you added in defense. Your mom then fidgeted with your hair a bit, as if she was fixing it. "So do it, but... you have to stop this obsession. It's not good for you." She said to you. It went silent for a moment, then your mom let out a small sigh. "I'll get dinner started, I'll come to get you in a bit." She said, giving you a small squeeze to your shoulder and she left your room. You sighed, placing your hands on your cheeks and leaned on the desk. Trying to think of what your mom said. Then you looked at picture sitting on the night stand for a moment. After a whole silent minute, you got up from the desk and went into the kitchen where your mom was, to help her with dinner.

You were at the food court, you had taken your lunch break, now you were heading back. You weren't watching where you were going and you've bumped into somebody. Making them drop a book of theirs. "Shit, I'm sorry." You said, picking up the old looking small book with the title which read 'Dream Theory'. Interesting. "It's alright." He said, then you handed the book to the guy. He was cute. He had messy brown hair and slightly tired eyes. The same description as the security guy who got fired.

"Are you... the guy who got fired from security?" you asked him. He had a look of embarrassment, but he nodded. "Yeah, that's me." He said. It was quiet for a moment, but you spoke again. "What you did was understandable." You said, making him look at you with his eyes slightly wide by your words. "You think so?" He asked. "Yeah, now a-days, you don't even know people's intentions or motives. I would have probably done the same if I were you." You explained. He only nodded at your words, at least someone also thought like him. "Well, I better go, hopefully I'll see you around." You said with a small smile. He nodded and returned the smile. Afterwards, you headed back towards your work place, while he also left to his destination.

You were back home, counting the money you kept in a shoebox underneath your bed. It was enough to fire an investigator, but you knew that you'll need more. This would probably cover the bear bare minimum. It was frustrating. You've spent a whole year saving, yet it didn't feel like it was enough. You knew that you should have got a job sooner, than later. Again, you went through the same old articles and pictures. Trying to find something again. But nothing, it was the same old thing. The same words and the same people in the pictures. Of kids playing around the arcade and one of a person dressed as a yellow bunny. That was odd, you don't remember that bunny at the pizzeria. When was he added? When you looked at the picture of him posing with a girl with blonde hair in pick tails, it felt creepy in a way. Almost unsettling. You didn't really notice this picture or you probably didn't notice it at first.

It was another day, you were in the register, ringing people out. You sighed, in exhaustion. Your feet were hurting and time felt much slower than usual. Another costumer came to the register. You gave them the best smile. "Hello-" you were cut off guard, seen that it was that guy you met the other day. "Oh, it's you. Find everything alright?" You asked him, like you'd normally asked every costumer. You scanned the box of crayons and paper, along with a few things he had in his basket. "Yeah, thanks." He said, while grabbing his wallet. "Found a job yet?" You asked him, out of politeness. "If you haven't, I'm sure you could send in your application." You said. "I actually already did, but thank you for the offer." He responded. You nodded, as you placed the items in a white plastic bag with the red Target logo. "What did you find? If you don't mind me asking." You asked him. "A security guard, at some pizzeria. The pay isn't good, but it's something." He explained.

This caught your curiosity. "Really? What pizzeria?" you asked, putting the packet of bacon in the bag. "It's called, I think. Freddy's Fazbear's Pizza, something like that." He explained. No fucking way. You looked at him wide eyed. "For real?" You asked him, he only nodded. Then he gave you the amount of money that was due. As you handed him his receipt, you hesitated a bit. "When can I see you again?" You asked. "Hm, I don't know, maybe in half an hour while I still have time? Why?" He asked, now curious on why you'd want to see him. "It's cause... I'd like to talk to you about something. It'll be worth your while, I promise." You said, he thought of it for a minute, then he nodded. "Alright, I'll meet you in the food court... When does your shift in end?" he asked. "In about an hour, what's your name by the way?" You asked him. "It's Mike." He told kindly, as you hummed in response. Watching him leave in a bit of a hurry, you went back to work hoping that the time would go by fast.

After that hour, you were at the food court, waiting for Mike to arrive. He finally did. "Thanks for coming." You said almost shyly. "No problem, but just make it quick. I got to get back home to get ready for my first shift." He explained. You and him sat on a table. "Look, I know you've only known me for a bit. But, please hear me out." You said. Mike nodded, allowing you to processed. "Could you, maybe let me in the pizzeria, while you do your job. I'm just looking for something." You explained to him. He looked at you with a look of confusion. "Don't worry, I'm not going to steal anything, I'm just looking for something." You explained to him. But he wanted to know a bit more. "I don't know. What exactly are you looking for? Treasure of some kind?" He asked. "Well, almost something like that." You told him, but he still not very convinced. You didn't know whether you should tell him the whole story on why you're interested in going into the pizzeria. You just skipped the subject.

"Not only that, but I'll pay you for your troubles. I just want to go in and look, then I'm out." You added, as soon as you said 'paid' he looked at you with more reason. "How much?" he asked. "Two-hundred dollars per night. It'll just be this week and no more." You told him, seen the look of shock in his face. He thought for a minute. Then he nodded his head. "Alright deal, but, you have to pay first. I don't want to get scammed or anything." He said, then you grabbed your wallet and handed him two fifty dollar bills. He took the money and looked at it, in almost as if he'd never seen that amount in while. "That's all I have for now, but I'll give you the rest afterwards." You explained to him. Mike nodded, he seemed as if he was convinced. "Alright, it's a deal then." He said. After that was settled. "Before I go, here's my house number. Call me if anything." You explained to him, writing your house number on a piece of paper and gave it to him. You normally wouldn't give your number to anyone, but you knew that you'd be seen him for the next couple days.

Back home, you told your mom that you'd be going out at night for the whole week. For some kind of night shift and you'd be back at 6:00 am. You left home and headed to the pizzeria. It was 11:55 pm. You were sitting in your car, waiting for Mike to arrive. A few minutes passed and he had arrived at 12:00 am. On time. He told you to just be smooth and not make it seem as if you were here. He sounded as if he really needed this job. You nodded understandingly and went to search.

Like before, you searched everywhere that you could. Except you got to look more. In the kitchen, boiler room and in the back. But nothing. Despite not finding anything, you'll be back tomorrow night. When you got back to the main lobby, you heard strange movements coming from the single stage. It had dark purple curtains like the main one. You got a bit close, trying to listen and see closely on what was making the inside of the stage move. You reached out and tried to pull the curtains, until you heard the Mike called out to you. "Hey, it's 6:00, we gotta go." He said, you nodded at him, you looked back at the stage. Before you headed out. "Here's the rest." You told him, giving him the other two fifty bucks. He took them. "Thanks." He said, putting the money in his pocket. "No, thank you for letting me do this. I know it's risky." You said with a small smile. "It's nothing really, I just... really need the money and the pay here is not so great. From what I was told." He explained. You nodded. "I understand." You responded to him. "Well, I'll see you later tonight?" you asked him. "Yeah. See ya." He responded with a small awkward smile, then headed to his car. You did the same.

You went home, slept for a few hours. You had that dream once again. But, there was a slight change. When you got to the small single stage, the voice sounded much different than before. 'Y...O...U... F...O...U...N..D... M... E...' You could slightly make out the letters, but the words completely. Then you woke up again. Like always. You got ready and went to work and after work you went home, then you left to the pizzeria at the same time as you did before. Mike arrived, you paid him the while two hundred dollars and you got to doing what you were doing. You searched in the same places, but this time you looked more in the main lobby. It felt as if you were getting closer to finding something, and that something was in the main lobby. You looked under the tables, bathrooms and even in the trashcans, but nothing. But it still felt close. Looking over at the single stage, you noticed that the curtains were open. You walked over to it, and saw that it was empty. Dammit, you thought something would be in there, before you could leaned close to look inside. You heard a loud thud in the office.

Quickly you ran towards the office. "Mike?" You called out to him, seen that he was on the floor groaning in pain. Bleeding from his arm. You went over and helped him up from the floor. "You good? What happened?" you asked him, setting him back on the chair. "I think so, dunno how that happened." He said, referring to the wound on his arm. It looked nasty. You looked around the office, trying to find a first aid kit. When you found it, you helped him patch up his wound. "What did you do?" You asked him, as you tightened the bandages on his arm. "I have no idea, I just dreamed of this kid, with a pirate hook. I chased after him, then he slashed me." He said, this caught your attention. 'Boy with a pirate hook.' That must have been a sign somehow.

When you got back home, your mom was getting ready to leave. You talked for a bit before she left. When she did, you went to catch some sleep before work. You went back to that same dream, back at the pizzeria, except you were in the last place where it ended. At the single stage, it was open. But it was empty. You got close, leaning in to look inside, but it was dark. All most like a bottomless pit. You stoke your hand in to see if you might find something, inside but you felt something grabbing your hand in the process. You heard the voice again. 'Y...O...U... F...O...U...N..D... M... E...'. Then the house phone rang. Making you wake up with a loud gasp, a bit frightened. Groaning that you've been woken up. You got up and walked towards the living room. You picked up the phone and answered.

"Hello?" you asked through the phone. "Y/n? Hey it Mike, sorry to interrupt whatever you were doing, but. Did you break into the pizzeria earlier this morning?" He asked, sounding worried in a way. "No? I was home the whole time. Why what happened?" You asked him. "Apparently someone or a group of people broke in. I just wanted to conform something." He explained. "That was it, sorry for interrupting." He apologized. "It's alright, I get it. I'll see you later tonight." You said, then you hung up. Who the hell would break into the pizzeria? That was a bit suspicious. You looked at the time and saw that it was close to being time to go to work. You sighed, walking back to your room to get ready.

Later that night, you were back at the pizzeria, waiting for Michael. He arrived, once he parked and stepped out of the car, then he went to the passenger door and opened it. A little girl stepped out with a small back pack. They both approached you. "Sorry, I couldn't get a hold of the babysitter and I just couldn't leave her alone." He explained to you. "Are you Mike's girlfriend?" she asked. Making you giggle and her brother's face turned a slight red. "Nah, just a friend." You replied to her. "Hm, I didn't think he'd have any." She said, making you laugh and Michael's face becoming redder. After you had a small introduction, you went in.

The place was trashed and a mess. While Mike went to put Abby to sleep, you decided to get some cleaning supplies to help clean the mess. You went to the janitor's closet to find some things, you spotted how on the door there was a dark liquid that had been splattered on there. Weird, it looked almost similar to blood, it was probably an old stain of some sort. You got brooms, dustpans, a bucket, mop and cleaning products. Then headed back to the main lobby. When Michael arrived, you and him got to cleaning. You both swept, mopped and you stocked up the chair and tables. Afterward, he went back to the office while you went on your search. Trying to find any kind of new clues maybe, but nothing. Some 'evidence' must have been cleaned up. You headed back to the office and saw that Mike was asleep and Abby had woken up. "Can you take me to the bathroom please?" She asked. You looked over at her sleeping brother and back at her. "Yeah, lets go." You said, taking her hand and leading her to the restroom.

You were waiting outside of the restroom, waiting for her to finish so that she could go back to her brother. The door opened and she walked out. "Done." She said with a small smile. Then a small noise was heard in the stage. You and Abby looked over for a minute. "Stay behind me." You said, then you slowly walked towards the lobby, with Abby behind you. You saw how the stage slightly shook, you kept the younger kid behind you, grabbing a broom. To defend yourself. Then the curtains of both the stages opened, revealing the animatronics. Of a bunny, bear, and a chick. They were all in good condition, with a bit of dirt and dust on them. The single stage had a fox, a bright red one that was more tattered than the rest, also with some dust.

They all moved their heads, towards your direction. Then they began to walk towards you both. You don't remember them doing that. You held the broom tightly, and kept Abby behind you. Except she peaked and looked towards the animatronics. "Those are my friends." She said, removing herself from behind you and going up to the four animals. "Abby wait." You said, getting closer to them. She seemed as if she knew them. Did she? You kept your broom in hand, watching as Abby interacted with them as if she's known them all her life. You felt something touch your shoulder, looking over, you saw the red fox. He was moving his ears and hook for a hand excitedly. Instead of feeling scared, you felt some kind of attraction? "It's okay, he just wants to hug you." Abby said to you, now the animatronics were looking at you. "He does?" you asked her, she then nodded.

Turning to face the fox, that was twice your size. You set the broom aside, then you extended your arms and moved closer to him. He did the same. You wrapped your arms around the cold fur like robotic body. His arms were around your smaller body. It felt a bit odd, but the more you hugged him, it felt comforting. You felt his hook for a hand giving you small pats, as a way to ease you. This felt nice, then you pulled away from him. Looking at him in his single eye. He moved his jaw excitedly, as well as his ears. It was cute in way. You gave him a small smile. Out of nowhere Abby began to laugh, you looked over and saw how the others were tickling her. She just laughed, which lead to some playful screaming and her telling them to stop. It was all fun and games, until you heard Mike run in to see what was happening.

As soon as he got there, he assumed Abby and you were in some kind of danger, he then grabbed a chair and held it up, as Freddy approached him. About to fight him. "It's okay Freddy, he's my brother Mike." Abby said towards Freddy, who had seemed to have calmed down. Allowing him to let Mike pass. "Mike, this is Bonnie, Foxy and Chica. Everyone, this is Mike." Abby introduced everyone to on another. "This is... is a joke right?" He asked, looking confused at you. "I thought I was tripping, but no." You responded to him. "It's okay Mike, they just want to play." Abby told Mike, then Chica turned to her and gave her a wink, making her smile.

"Alright, it's time to go, come on." He encouraged Abby. "Hold on." She responded to him, then she grabbed her little notepad and a red marker from her pocket. She drew something real quick and tore it off the notepad. Bonnie held out his hand, letting Abby put the picture on his palm. He then showed the picture to Foxy who looked very interested in the heart drawn on the paper. "I had a lot of fun." Abby told them, she then walked towards Mike. But stopped and gave Freddy a nice hug. Freddy returned the hug back. You looked at Foxy, who was waving his ears and jaw rapidly again. Also waving his hook around as if he was waving at you. "I'll see you around?" you asked him, he nodded his head. Then you walked out of the place with Mike and Abby.

"That was something." Mike said, watching Abby get in his car. "Yeah, it was." You responded, looking back inside, seen that Foxy was near the door. You guessed to make sure that you would all leave. You turned back to Mike who was closing and locking the gate. "So, find something?" He asked again. "Not yet, but I'm much closer than before." You explained to him. After he finished locking up the door. "I better get going. I got work in a few hours." You told him. "Alright, I'll probably stop by." He teased, making smile. "Alright, don't be a stranger." You told him, then you looked at Abby. "Goodbye Abby." You said kindly to her and she gave you smile, then you headed to your car, turned on the engine to get home. Back home, your mom wasn't there. You assumed she went to work early. You took off your shoes and just jumped on the couch, getting comfortable. Taking yet another nap before work. Hopefully afterwards you could get some better sleep. You fell asleep shortly afterwards.

You back at the pizzeria, except wasn't almost scary looking and dark like before. It seemed more friendly and nice to be in. You were standing outside the bathroom, the same clothes as before. Looking around, you saw someone in front of the single stage, they were small, like a child. You got closer to see who it was. Your eyes widen when you saw the back of that person's back of his head. They slowly turned around. You saw that it was your brother, he looks just like how he did when he went missing. He had on his orange shirt with blue jeans, shoes and his pirate hook that he had made.

"You found me." He said, you felt your eyes watering. It's been so long since you've seen your brother. You almost forgot how he looked like. You said his name in a whisper, then you went over, getting on your knees and pulling him into a hug. "Oh...I'm so sorry, I was only gone for a minute. I knew I should have been more watchful of you." You said, as you cried more, hugging your brother. "It's okay. You found me" He responded to you, all you could do was hug him and cry. As much as you wanted to continue to hug and be with him, you couldn't. This was only a dream. You pulled away, and looked at him in the eyes. "Please... I have to know... who took you?" You asked him, hoping that he'd give you answer or a clue. He didn't say anything. "Please tell me, who took you from me and mom?" You asked him again, but again. Nothing. Before you could ask him again. You woke up.

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[tarjapearce]

Mi Dulce Cereza (Pt. 6)

Ranchero! Miguel O'Hara x Reader

WARNINGS: Tender smut, daily snippets of life, telenovela coded drama, family feud, and more drama.

Summary: Unexpected visits are not Miguel's thing.

Couldn't wait til tomorrow. My bad

Miguel's lips slurped your neck, leaving a wet trail of kisses on your skin. His hands roamed your waist until they reached your cheeks and cupped them lovingly.

Eyes softened upon locking with yours, a gaze full of love and adoration as he buried himself between your hips. You bit your lip with a soft and inviting mewl.

Your eyes stared at him, a soft blush splattered on his amorous yet lustblown face. Meaty lips parted as he panted. Both of his hands entwined tightly on yours, leading them above your head. His body trembled and his breathings hitched. Self control menacing to go out the window as you clamped around him.

"Mi amor" He warned, and you whimpered in return at the tortuous yet delicious pace. You could feel him inch by inch, stretching you.

His thrust firm, deep yet slow. He didn't want to hurt you or the baby, and no matter how much you pleaded for him to go rougher on you, he refrained from ravaging you just the way you liked.

Your legs wrapped around him, squeezing his toned and narrow waist, urging to go deeper.

"No me tortures" (Don't torture me)

He slid one arm underneath your back to cradle you closer as he pushed in once more. Legs immediately wrapped at the base of his hips, squeezing him. Your arms were around his neck, lips devouring, desperate and panting at each other's.

Your body bounced underneath him and his strong limbs. Breast flattened against his scorching torso. Hormones and need in their peak. A loving and tender way to consummate your marriage almost a month later from your courthouse wedding. Baby bump a little more prominent.

He was too far gone in your scent, your delicious and sweet sounds only he could provoke. Your hair tickling his forearms. A flurry of I love yous came in between blown breaths on both mouths as he kept burying himself inside you.

To say you both missed the sensations was an understatement.

With a whimper and a violent tremor, your walls spasmed so deliciously against him, milking his cock. He came as he held tenderly your convulsing body close to him. Emptying himself inside you. His frame swallowing you whole as the ripples of his back contracted and pulsed. Just like his cock.

Your toes curled and you smiled. A few of his front strands tickling your face as he rested his forehead on yours. Panting yet giving little chucklings at your reaction. Sweat sticking on your skin while you melted in his arms.

"What's so funny?"

He kissed and bit your cheek softly, earning a little squeal from you.

"Nothing. I feel like a ragdoll next to you."

"You're perfect, Cerecita. Specially like this."

He laid you down carefully and caressed your cheek with an oeillade your way.

"What?" Your wispy lashes fluttered and he smiled.

"Almost a month later and I can't believe we got married."

"Is that regret I hear?"

He nipped your neck and you giggled.

"Don't ever think that. I'm just surprised as how time flies."

"I hope it flies away for this little bean inside too."

He chuckled and laid next to you, a hand rubbing soothingly on your lower and growing belly.

He looked at the clock, ticking at 3 am.

Your nausea had subsided a bit as Vicky kept feeding you with the right things. But there was nothing she could actually do when it came to the waves of raging hormones that hit you in the least expected moments.

It was almost embarrassing how you ogled at Miguel whenever they did. And they hit hard. And today, you both had finally found a much needed relief after constant teasing.

He had always treated you with such finesse and love, way even before you were pregnant. Kind of reminded you of that first kiss you shared in the barn.

He was a natural for kissing and so many other things that had you swooning. The golden ring on his hand filled your chest with pride and contempt. He was one of the few choices in life you didn't regret rather embraced.

Your mind was full of peace and joy knowing that he not only reciprocated, but gave the extra mile at your affection.

You curled in his chest and he kissed your forehead.

"Te amo. Stop thinking"

You grunted tiredly. He lulled you to sleep by caressing your hair.

-----

"Miguel? Levántate, mijo. Ya es tarde" (Wake up, Mijo. It's late)

Vicky's voice echoed from the other side of the door. He stirred awake with an annoyed groan.

"Voy" (Coming.)

Your naked leg hooked on his. He sighed with a smug smile.

"I need to go, corazón"

"Five more minutes? I don't get to see you until lunch."

He kissed you.

"Just a couple of hours."

"What do you want for lunch?"

He got up and you slapped his ass with a mischievous smile.

"You. And for dinner as well. But, knowing that's not possible at the moment, anything you decide to do will be good. I know so. "

Your cheeks grew warmer at his words.

"I love you."

Your words earned a loving and tender hug from him and another kiss.

"I love you too."

He took a shower and got dressed. Hard duty jeans, that clung to his muscular and toned legs and glutes, a cotton long sleeved shirt that he rolled on the elbows, a belt, his boots and his hat, that rested on his back. A small cord holding it around his neck.

He blowed a kiss your way and left to attend his duties.

Despite the construction work force returning there was still alot to do around. The barn was finished within a couple of days, and then they moved to the insides of the estate.

The second floor had the windows installed at last. A group worked on the electricity as the others focused in finishing the final touches as some walls were bare. Pure brick and concrete.

Little by little your love nest was taking shape. And being involved in the process made you feel valued and respected. Miguel didn't take any further choices without consulting you.

Your orchard was worked and nurtured every day and seeing the little sprouts of some things made you cry in happiness.

Vicky always accompanied you, you helped eachother. One thing you adored was the fact that most of the workers knew their ways in the kitchen. If Vicky or Miguel would spot them slacking, they'd be sent to help out in the lunch or dinner prepping.

Paco had just entered his eighteens, he was tall, lanky but strong. You'd seen him carrying the concrete bags like they were feathers. He didn't talk much. Brown eyes, light caramel skin with curls ontop of his square shaped face.

He came from a family close to Vicky and Miguel. He was like a nephew to el Patrón. (The Boss)

Joseph on the other hand was on his young adult phase. Twenty one, light brown hair tied in a bun behind his oblong shaped face. A light beard, body more sculpted and toned with a few tattoos on his arms and ankles, hazel eyes and a mean demeanor that was only a decoy for the true goof he was inside.

You'd often find him joking with Paco or the constructions workers. Miguel had found him, freshly thrown into homelessness by life circumstances. He wouldn't admit it, but Joseph saw Miguel as a mentor. Everything he knew was thanks to him.

The both helpers slept comfortably in one of the cabins. After all, the workers area was the first thing Miguel sent to repair. He didn't want for them to go through what he did in your farm.

Sure, the barn had it's own place already built, but that didn't mean it was in good conditions.

He never told you but the first night he barely slept due the bead creaking noises and the crawlers that jumped out of nowhere on him.

----

"Look at you, so glowy and pretty. Fun night I suppose?"

"Vicky!"

Victoria laughed at your blushing cheeks.

"Ay chamaca. Es normal!" (Oh, girl. It's normal)

She cleaned some red beans before tossing them into a large pot

"And you better seize that at every chance you have cause once that little O'Hara pops out, you'll barely have time to sleep."

"Alright, jeesh."

Vicky then put the pot to boil and begun peeling some green plantains.

"You know? When Miguel first spoke about you, I had my doubts."

"Oh? How come?"

Vicky sighed and looked at you.

"You'll see. The many women, and by many, I mean two, he'd ever introduced me with, were not good. One was too competitive with him, they'd spend more time arguing than anything, her parents didn't approve of him either."

Vicky sighed at the memory of the many times she'd have to console him and take away the bottle of mezcal from his hands before he got too drunk.

"It wasn't nice, the other one cheated on him with Gabriel. Bien mamoncilla la morra." (Such an unbearable woman)

Your eyes widened and you covered your mouth.

"Do they... talk? I mean Miguel and Gabriel?"

"From time to time. They're no longer at odds, though. Or at least that's what I want to believe. But don't worry, Mija. You won fair and square."

You chuckled.

"Did I?"

"Well, you've got the ring, his last name and pregnant with his child. ¿Qué más quieres pues?" (What else you could possibly want?)

You laughed bashfully.

"Make him happy. Just the way he is making me"

"Ay. Ustedes los jóvenes... So sappy" (Ah you youngsters)

You giggled sheepishly.

"I mean it, Vicky."

"I know, corazón. Sólo estoy bromeando. Just hope you're prepared to meet  Conchata, eventually. Or never, hopefully" (Just kidding)

"Conchata? Whose that?"

"Miguel's biological mom that shows up from time to time just to pester my boy."

You gave Victoria droll look as you kept slicing the meat.

"Between you and I, I'm more mother to Miguel and even Gabriel than that woman ever was."

"She sounds... complicated"

Vicky rolled her eyes, "Irresponsable es lo que es." (Irresponsible is what she is.)

"She never let me do anything, but didn't do shit either. Had to whip Miguel's and Gabriel's ass to get them right. Not proud of it, but someone had to teach them values."

"If something is worth saying? He is a great man. You did amazing."

"Ah don't worry. Miguel knows better to fuck around with me."

You both laughed silently. The complicity on her tales not only offered more and more knowledge about Miguel, but a better way to understand him.

"You know? My mom sure was there in her own way I guess but... she married my dad just for money."

"Bet she did. Don't get me wrong, mi niña. Miguel told me everything about her, and by God, I wanted to go where he was and slap some sense into her." (Sweetie)

"Is it wrong to admit that... same?"

Vicky faked a gasp and smirked.

"Ay, Cerecita. Getting out of that house is the best decision you have done. And I mean it."

She pointed at you with her finger, "You were so damn stressed when you came that slept for almost twelve hours straight."

You finished preparing and let the heat do it's job.

"But now you're here. Safe. How do you feel about it?"

"It's scary, the changes I mean. But I've never felt so free and good about a decision I've done. I don't regret it."

"That's the important. When is the next check up?"

"Within a week or so, haven't told Miguel. I forgot about it too. Gotta look for a new doctor. Don't want my family to drag her down to this mess either."

"I know someone. Is the family's doctor. We'll discuss this later. We gotta finish lunch."

----

The goal was to finish renovations in a couple of months. Miguel was aware that it would need a good amount of time, specially the main house of the hacienda. After all, that's where his future family would be living and his own business would develop. (estate)

Naturally, he'd want it to be everlasting and good and pretty. Perfect to grow old in it.

He'd oversee every detail that the architect and designer were adding and scratching off. He'd want to make some things baby proofed for his future child. He poured his heart and mind on this life project whenever he wasn't with you. But otherwise, you'd be the main focus of his attention and devotion.

He'd be having meetings with direct providers to increase his cattle. Cows, goats a bit of sheeps and pigs. He had enough chickens for now. But there was something that got him concerned.

Given that your parents were purebred horse traders, they were well acquainted with the main suppliers. Sure he had acted like a third party when Margarita and Manchas, a Mustang mare with her foal, had arrived to the enclosure as their new addition.

He learned a lot. But meddling with the suppliers was something he thought twice, since he didn't want any unnecessary trouble. He'd consult you about it later.

He'd often think about Agustín. A Friesian purebred horse that nearly breaks Joaquín's legs, another Mustang horse, in the initial training. He was quite surprised to see such a noble and calm tempered breed being aggressive towards others. A clear sign of past abuse before he was brought with your parents.

Agustín had been a lucky purchase from your dad. A lucky shop that was surely missing his morning strolls with him. Or getting his hair braided and groomed.

As much as Miguel wanted him back, he knew there was little to nothing he could do. He had the money to buy it, but the property weighed more, priority wise.

You had hit the 10 week mark of your pregnancy. And that only motivated him to keep working hard. You did your own fair share of things around besides domestic chores.

You were in charge of supervising the fencing and also helped with the finances. Sometimes you'd spend hours with him making the balances to fit in the numbers.

The electricity had been installed completely on the second floor and so was the water system. It was the little milestones that put a smile on his face.

And what a better way to celebrate that the cattle was growing and a new main door were installed, than a big dinner with the construction workers and helpers.

Hacienda O'Hara was getting onto it's feet.

There was food, drinks and much to your happy dismay, Miguel took you to dance in the middle of the people's circle that clapped and cheered. Vicky danced with Miguel and other coworkers.

There was no envy, no back handed comments disguised as actual compliments, zero pretense. You were having fun.

Your 'friends' no longer called you, neither texted. But being apart of them had also brought you peace. You had changed your number. After all, it was a new start.

The only numbers you kept were neutral providers that had helped you to get new horse traders contact.

Before your mind kept wandering into business mode, Miguel pulled you out of it with a deep kiss.

But joy wouldn't last much when Paco came running towards Miguel with an alarmed expression that instantly made you frown. Miguel's scowl only deepened the dreading worry that crept in you as he listened to Paco.

"Miguel? What's wrong?"

"Stay here."

"W-What?"

"No dejes que salga, Victoria." (Don't let her out)

Vicky puckered and held you in her arms, trying to soothe your nerves

"Miguel!"

You could only watch as he put on his hat and take the gun Paco gave him. Your eyes widened at the revolver.

"You need to stay calm, mija. I know you are concerned, probably is another iperson that wants Miguel's property. Those cabrones are persistent."

Her words fell upon deaf ears since that harrowing hunch set deeper in your gut.

It didn't helped that Joseph rounded up some people as he looked at you with a concerned expression as he talked through his phone.

Go

Your mind rumbled, Vicky's words offered little reassurance. But something felt wrong. And then a gunshot was heard.

"Miguel" Your eyes filled in with tears and you rushed in the direction he had gone to. Vicky called as she followed you with pleading words.

---

As soon as Paco came to him and muttered your parent's last name, he knew things wouldn't end well.

He had been careful enough to not drag any unwanted attention towards him and his property. But trouble had this annoying way to find in the least appropriate of times.

Paco gave him the gun, just for safety measures. He didn't like resorting to violence, but your parents had this knack to press his buttons so fast that is was maddening. Why wouldn't they give up? Why would they keep messing with his life? But most important, how did they find you?

His scowl only deepened upon seeing your parents there, leaning against their expensive car with a small group of people. Some were armed too.

"Where is my daughter?" Your dad spoke as he approached the sturdy metal doors. The name Hacienda O'Hara engraved in them. Miguel towered over him, but your father didn't back away.

"I've allowed her eloping nonsense enough as it is. It's time for her to return with us."

His tone calm, yet sneering.

"What makes you think I'll give my wife back to you, sir?"

"Your wife?!" Rosaura huffed as she came into picture, her cashmere poncho draped around her shoulders as she got off the car, "How dare you?! Give my daughter back, you lowlife!"

Miguel scrunched his nose in disgust at her words.

"Sorry ma'am, can't hear your yapping from here."

"Canalla! You think this door will protect you?" (Scumbag)

Mahonagy eyes flashed red at her threat.

"¿Se atreve a amenazarme en mi propiedad, señora? Ya no estamos en su rancho. Aquí mando yo. Así que bájele sus tres rayitas."

(You dare threaten me in my property, ma'am? We're no longer in your estate. I'm the one that runs things here, so tone the fuck down)

His voice lowered an octave, there was no kindness or politeness behind it.

"A mí no me hablas así, desgraciado -" (You won't talk to me like that, you jerk!)

"Pues le hablo como quiero! ¡¿Cómo la ve?! Ya me hartó usted con sus insultos pendejos." (I will talk to you however I want. How about that? I'm sick of your fucking disrespect.)

"Me devuelves a mi hija a la de ya!" (Get my daughter back now!)

"I'm her husband. Deal with it."

"I'm not letting my respectable daughter to give birth to a wretched-"

A gunshot.

Your mother and the small group stilled as Miguel fired his gun at your dad's words. The men behind him pointed his weapons at the door.

"Listen to me very carefully, suegrito." His nostrils flared in rage and his teeth bared as he sneered the word, "You had the guts to come all the way here, to disrespect me, my wife and my unborn child."

He inched closer and as tempting as it was to grab your dad by the collar he was sure that would make things incredible sour for both sides. His fist clenched in anger as he put the gun away.

"My patience can stretch for so long, and you're testing it's limits too fucking soon. Don't make me the bad guy."

His jaw clenched as your dad gulped discreetly.

A round of collective gasps echoed as you approached with a disturbed look upon seeing the guns in the worker's hands. Vicky calling for Miguel as Joseph and a group of armored men trailed behind you.

"Perdóname, mijo. Se me escapó cuando escuchó el disparo" (Im sorry, mijo. She escaped once she heard the gunshot.)

Your name was chided by your dad

"Pack your things and let's go home. This... foolishness has embarrassed us long enough."

"I am home." Your tone though calm, seethed with brewing anger. Your dad's workers put their guns down.

Your mother scoffed, "I know you, sweetheart. You will get tired of him once he has no money and will return to-"

"Then you know shit about me. You think I am like you?! You might be the one that birthed me, but I do not owe you respect."

Your mother's eyes widened in shock

"He washed your brain, didn't he?"

"No! Stop blaming him for your wrongdoings! Just look at yourselves! You bring armed people to a private property, and expect me to just go with you after all you said?! Are you insane?!"

"I will not tolerate this-"

"You think I care?"

Miguel had to get in between you and the gate, but you weren't having it. Your anger had been simmering long enough to just let it slide.

"I am married to him! Why can't you accept that?! Legally married to him!"

"It means nothing if the church doesn't recognize your marriage"

"Like if I want to." Your father's eyes widened, clearly disturbed at your words.

"He isn't worthy of you!" Your mom spoke and you laughed

"Not my fault you never met love, mom. Not my fucking fault you settled with the first man that gave you a couple of bucks your way and you mistook that for love!"

Every words just made your mother recoil in horror, just as your dad.

"You brat!"

"Cerecita, let's go-"

"No! Miguel. I'm tired of this." You raised your hand and showed your ring to them.

"I'm his wife. I love him. And I am home. Like it or not, It's my choice, is that clear?"

"You don't know what you're saying-"

Your dad tried to reason but your mother's temper seeped through your bones.

"I don't want to see you ever again around here. So get lost!"

"You will come home to us, one way or another. And if I have to ruin this place, so be it."

Your dad spoke to both Miguel and you, to then turn around and get in the car.

"I wanna see you try, cabrón " Miguel’s tone warned.

With those words, you were taken inside by a concerned Vicky despite your mother calling you over and over. Miguel and the other workers didn't leave until you were gone out of sight.

" No matter what I do, they won't leave me alone, Vicky."

" You're safe here, mi niña. None will let you harm come to you. Much less Miguel!"

"I just keep adding problems to his life" You hiccuped as Victoria poured some hot tea onto your cup along a natural blend of Herbs that would put you to sleep.

Your nerves were too fried to think rationally. The party was long over, soured by the family feud.

"Stop saying stupid things, corazón. now drink this. You're too nervous and that is not good for the baby."

This is by far how everyone imagined to end the day. You specially.

Even though Victoria's words made you a little ease, it was your dad's words that you secretly feared.

You knew he was a man of word. He'd do anything to make you come home, even if that meant to ruin Miguel’s hardwork.

"Where is Miguel?"

"He'll be here soon. Just making sure your parents left."

You hiccuped and wiped your eyes, anger slowly melting in tears.

"I'm so sorry, Vicky. I knew they were complicated but this... This is pure spite."

Vicky prepared your bed and then tuck you in.

"Todo va a estar bien, ya vas a ver." (Everything will be fine, you'll see.)

"What if they try to harm Miguel?"

"They better not, cause that means they'll have to deal with me. Me ves toda viejita, pero sé mis trucos." (You see me old and stuff, but I know my tricks.)

"You have us now, cariño. Get some rest, ok?"

"I need Miguel."

You'd mumble sleepily, the herbs worked wonders in your brain, relaxing you a bit too much after you finished the cup.

"He'll be here soon." Vicky rubbed your lower back until you were asleep and, then left your room with a sigh.

She knew your family was complicated but witnessing the real deal made her worry. You had all the right to be anxious and concerned as they were unpredictable.

Bloodshed was avoided. Miguel was wise enough to not instigate a fight and makes thing worse as they were.

He approached while he instructing Joseph and the others to keep an eye on the entrance.

"Miguel?"

"Ahorita no, Ma." (Not now, ma)

Vicky sighed and took him by the arm gently.

"Mijo, I know things are difficult right now. But she needs you. She is scared."

"I can't be at ease knowing that they can return anytime soon and try to take her away again."

"They won't, Miguel."

"How are you so sure? I don't even know how they got this address."

Vicky sighed but held him by the waist. His arm went around her shoulders.

"Cause I know you. If it's not your stubbornness, it's your love that will convince them to leave you alone."

"I hope so, cause I'm tired of this stupid feud. And I won't tolerate their disrespect in my own house."

He sighed and leaned on Vicky. Your bravado made him smile softly

"Did you see how Cerecita..."

Vicky chuckled

"¿Ves que si te ama? Ella tampoco dejaría que algo te pasara." (See? She loves you too. She wouldn't let harm come to you either)

"I need to increase the security. Be right back."

Vicky stared him with pained eyes.

Everyone knew this was far from over. But right now, her and Miguel’s priorities were simple. Keep you and the baby safe.

After a couple of hours of switching rounds, he went to bed. A deep sigh came his way upon watching you sleep.

You didn't back down from the challenge. Something he had to thank your dad for. Your words only invigorated him to fight harder for you, just like you fought for him.

Miguel changed into something more comfortable and curled next to you, his arms embracing your body as he kissed your hair.

Your breathings evened as he laid there, next to you whispering sweet nothings into your ear.

"Nadie me va a alejar de ti. Te lo prometo." (None will keep me away from you. I promise.)

[veemimis]

Sketch from my desire to see Jeanne's braids out of that cinnamon roll hairstyle or whatever it's called

[ravenwitch45]

Story time with the Goetias! Imagine if, whether little Stolas is reading by himself or adult Stolas is reading to little Octavia, he gets to read a new storybook that he's never heard of before.

This storybook is called "Cereza and the Lost Demon".

Part 1:

What do you think would be Stolas's (and Octavia's) thoughts, feelings, and opinions when reading this part?

Okay the moment I saw this I loved it, so sorry for the delay I was sick but I'm better and up to this now. This is such a unique concept for a crossover of these two series I love, so completely down for this. I decided to go with Adult Stolas reading this to Octavia so we get two reactions, plus I found it more fun that way. Stolas I feel, along with general intrique at the start, thinks of Rosa and Balder's love as quite sweet, them choosing to embrace it despite the rules against it. A true love he's only maybe felt once. Stolas is a hopeless romantic to me and starcrossed lover stories seem like they'd resonate with him a lot.

Octavia also at that age probably would find it really sweet, but the moment it's made clear they suffered for it, I feel she'd be really sad and confused. Not old enough to understand how people could be so cruel to break up a family like that. While also maybe connecting with the discomfort about the emotional distance she may have noticed between her own parents if she had at this point.

Both would probably really feel for Cereza. As just being able to see the unfairness in her situation. Seeing Cheshire has a nice but little comfort in her situation, though there happy someone at least took her in. And hoping for a happy end to her story. Of course Octavia is a lot more open about her feelings while Stolas acts as a good narrator for the text so far. It's gonna be a long tale after all.

[subsequentibis]

im finally getting the first pages of underbelly down and AAA... first appearance of sal.............

[umbranstilettos]

SWEET DREAMS, LITTLE ONE PART 1/?

IN UNIVERSES BETWEEN LIGHT, DARK AND CHAOS, INTERTWINING IN UNTOLD LAYERS…

"Sweet dreams little one", Were the last words that left an impression to her as she felt her mommy's fingers caressing her cheek, softly crooning about flying her to the moon, letting her play among the bank of stars twinkling among the galaxy only to see what spring is like on Jupiter and Mars.

It was a long day of exploration for her, mommy and that man with a funny scarf seeing her mom casually out and about Vigrid fighting the monsters brought a smile to her face as she tries to catch up with her, even the red ribbon was close second to catch up with her mommy as it flows with each movement that was the reason which made her envious tugging on it the moment she had the chance to do so.

It was a scary day too when she had to hide from the monsters fitting herself inside the small compartment the loud banging noises of their sharp weapons banging against the metal invaded her space as it began to bend locking her inside overwhelming her senses, tears running from from her face as she kicked on the bent emulating the courage that her mommy had fronted when she faced the monsters telling her that it was alright to be scared for the first time before she heard gunfire peeking behind the latch, scared and enamoured by her technique did she just put one in a rotisserie and cooked it to perfection?

That would be a neat trick for her next tea party with Jeanne they always had the newest toys to play with along with the other girls in school. The other adults seem to look at her funny when she approach other children asking the Umbran Elder if she was the impure child the result of their 'aff-ei' that word it was one of the most common words to describe her mother but she always moves on to her other Witchy stories it was a fair trade for her not to ask about the definition she always seem to get more stories when she asks about it when other adults mention it.

The Umbran Elder warns her not to mix with the other Umbran royalties when playing with the others she doesn't have much to offer compared to the carefully crafted tea sets from France and dolls made exclusively by cootierurs from all over the world, when the adults say it it brings a pride on their faces saying it was real expensive to provide for their children, but to her and the pair of mismatched eyes of Cheshire it made their eyes roll to the back of their heads.

It was funny for Jeanne too being the heir of the throne, she didn’t treat her any different and would often sneak out with her to see her mommy and they would listen her stories, refusing to leave her side often getting scold by Rosa when their eyelids flutter when they feel sleepy to go back to their quarters, saying that lying on the damp and cold floors of the Umbran Clock Tower was not the way to live.

When she asked her mommy why she does it, Rosa would only reply that being the most formidable Witch and her contracted demon, Madama Khepri by her side to control the flow of time in the impregnable fortress, and that would shield them from the outside forces and the monsters saying she was the one keeping the place together, her mother being the most powerful of the clan often gets mistreated and being starved and fed only once per day was a question that plagued her mind.

[ua-moved]

( from cereza, @wiitchtime ) : she had actually debated on letting her sleep in, after all... it was her birthday. she needn't tip toe around the heavy sleeper but she still makes a quiet attempt to come over to her, her hand smooths up her back having chosen to sleep on her front with her face buried in the pillow with beautiful, platinum hair acting as a second blanket around her shoulders and all over claiming the sheets. she can only imagine how that was could be comfortable for her poor back until her hand reaches her shoulder does she gently shake it, the click of ceramic on wood as cereza places a cup of green tea on her bedside. “ jeanne... it's morning. ” if she ignores her attempts to rouse her, which happens more often than than not, she may have to get creative in waking the birthday girl.

if there was anything to know about jeanne, it was never to wake her. whether it be from a quick nap or a deep slumber, the waker would be met with the wrath of a thousand suns... ideally. in actuality, they would be met with the refusal of a toddler. jeanne felt like she has barely gotten any sleep in her entire life because of rigid schedules constantly plaguing her since her youth. majority of which were not by choice ( the only time she actively chose to go against her need was her time as cutie j but that was another story ). it was the only time she would have any semblance of freedom growing up in the clan. not only that, a rapidly changing world where demands and stress were incessantly high, sleep was greatly needed. it was the only thing that stayed consistent ; a nice escape to look forward to at the end of the day.

jeanne knows she regained consciousness when she suddenly hears the not-so-comforting voice of cereza. however, she doesn't dare open her eyes, wanting to be consumed by the darkness. if she doesn't see her, she doesn't exist therefore, she can go back to sleep... yet the woman groans. loud. her body hasn't moved from its freefall position since she went to bed last night and she liked it that way. arms crossed, hugging a small pillow as her head sinks into its fluff—it's cozy. the shake makes her shoulder pull away from the contact. adjusting herself by inching slightly to the other side of the bed, jeanne tightens the chokehold she has around the pillow and turns her head so that her mouth sinks into the pillow's folds.

[t3mp0-lol]

Short Section from "Too Late"

written by me :3

"The witch of genesis clutched onto the body for what felt like hours. Her chest was aching due to how fast she had been inhaling and exhaling the polluted city air and her nails were being tainted with the all too familiar sight of blood as they pierced through Jeanne’s pale skin. Bayonetta knew she needed to let go or, at the very least, loosen her grip but she couldn’t bring herself to do so. She knew what happened to a witch that died. If she let go, she may never see Jeanne again. Clutching onto the twisted and mangled remains seemed infinitely better than such a horrid prospect.

A single tear rolled off of the elder’s cheek and onto the white haired woman’s jaw. Bayonetta wiped it away only to find it immediately replaced by another. And another. And another. It wasn’t long before the witch’s tears were acting almost like rain drops on top of the platinum witch. One tear even managed to land right below the younger one’s eye, making it look like she too was crying. The mere concept brought more tears pouring like waterfalls out of Bayonetta’s eyes. She always hated seeing Jeanne cry. It broke her heart in ways she never thought imaginable. However, knowing now that Jeanne would never be able to cry again simply sent her careening down a slope of terrible thoughts. Thoughts she hadn’t experienced since the loss of her beloved mother…"

[fl3shm4id3n]

Wₕₒ ᵢₛ ₜₕᵢₛ ₘₐₙ?

𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: 𝐁𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝, 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐰𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠. 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐝 𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐝 𝐜𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬.

ᴘᴀɪʀɪɴɢ: 2099 ꜱᴘɪᴅᴇʀ-ᴍᴀɴ! ᴍɪɢᴜᴇʟ ᴏ'ʜᴀʀᴀ x ᴡɪꜰᴇ! ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ

Tw: Smut, sexless marriage, mentions of affairs, heated make out session, titty sucking, giving (m), size difference, mating press, technically cheating? breeding? Not edited

A/N: I wish I were y/n so bad.

Masterlist

ʙᴇꜰᴏʀᴇ ʏᴏᴜ ɢᴏ ᴀɴʏ ꜰᴜʀᴛʜᴇʀ, ᴛʜɪꜱ ɪꜱ ɴꜱꜰᴡ/ꜱᴍᴜᴛ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ, ɪꜰ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡɪꜱʜ ᴛᴏ ɴᴏᴛ ʀᴇᴀᴅ, ꜱᴋᴇᴅᴀᴅᴅʟᴇ, ɪꜰ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡɪꜱʜ ᴛᴏ ᴘʀᴏᴄᴇᴇᴅ, ᴛʜᴇɴ ʀᴇᴀᴅ ᴀᴛ ʏᴏᴜʀ ᴏᴡɴ ʀɪꜱᴋ.

Was this how marriage was like? It's already been three years and you were married to the love of your life Miguel. Things had changed, he was working more and was always tired, you understood since he was working on his business that he had dreamed of making. You had supported him on everything, he was your lover and now husband, but was this kind of life really worth it.

It began a not that long ago, he'd come home tired from work, you had made him dinner and even offered him any kind of relief, but he'd always tell you that he already ate and that he didn't have the energy. You didn't think much of it, until he began to happen of a regular. He'd basically come home to sleep and eat sometimes, your once dream home felt like a hotel and you were the one that maintained it.

You had thought about going back to work since you had a lot of free time at home, but your husband told you that you didn't have to work, he's the one bringing home and money. All you had to do was cook dinner, clean the house, wash the clothes and whatever other chore, might as well get paid to be a house keeper since that's what you were basically, you just weren't getting paid. Your other job was to also make sure the bills and everything was paid for.

You really tried to get his attention, you had tried everything. You wore heavy makeup, wore tight dresses, even wore clothes that you didn't normally wear, lingerie, and were even naked at some point, but no. Miguel couldn't see the difference, and when he did he'd say that you didn't need that much makeup or he'd ask you were you going. He even told you to put on some clothes. What was wrong with him? Has he lost interest in you? Did he no longer love you? What was it?

Since that didn't work, you just stayed in your pjs all day or just wore some yoga pants and a sports bra. You didn't bother to put on make up, you just had a clean face on and you didn't go to the salon to get your hair or nails done. You just stopped trying to look your best for your husband, you just did your own thing while he did his. What bothered you was when your so called husband would tell you to smile more or that you should wear something pretty. Now he noticed? After everything that you try and do to get his attention? Wow. You were beginning to regret getting married to him.

In the other dimension, Miguel had known about his other self and his wife. That same wife that he had in his dimension, the one he had lost along with his daughter. He'd do anything in his power to get both of them back. He hated that fact that his other self had been neglecting you. You were the perfect wife that anyone could have asked for, you were you despite being from another dimension.

It angered him seen you so alone, yeah you had everything a woman could ask for, but where was your husband? No where to be found. He'd also known that you had began to think about having kids one day with his other self, but your so called husband didn't seem interested in that idea that you had been thinking about. Miguel couldn't take it any longer, you did not disserved this kind of treatment, so he had a plan.

That night was one of those nights that Miguel was going to arrive home late. This was becoming a regular thing, he didn't even need to remind you that he was coming home late, you were just used to it at this point, you began to believe there was another woman. Whatever.

You had got out of the cold shower and got ready for bed, as you were applying lotion to your body, you stopped and looked at yourself in the mirror. You leaned closer to the bathroom mirror, to get a better look at yourself. What caused your husband to lose interest in you? Did he no longer find you attractive? Was there something that you're seeing? What is it? You just sighed and left the bathroom, going to your closet to find something to wear for the night.

At the same time you didn't feel like putting something on, you were just tired and wanted to lay in bed, you doubted that he'd even notice you sleeping naked, he began to sleep on the couch so it shouldn't matter. You just went over to turn off the lights and headed towards the huge bed. As pulled the covers and sheets off the bed so that you could lay down, you heard the door open. Turning around you saw that it was your husband.

"Miguel? I thought that you had work until late?" you said, looking at him confused, the more you looked at him, the more the man almost seemed like a different person. It wasn't possible since this man looked just like your husband, were you beginning to see things? "I know, but I decided to cancel and decided to come home" he said, all you did was nod. He didn't seem to mind that you were flat out naked in front of him. "Are you hungry? If so they're left overs in the fridge, just heat them up in the microwave." You said coldly, turning back to what you were doing, until you felt your husband's presence, behind you.

You turned to look at him, when you locked eyes with the man, there was some kind of need and desire, that was odd. Miguel then placed his eyes on your hips, making you flinch by his sudden touch. He then leaned down and gave your naked shoulder a kiss, making you hum, and your face heat up. "Miguel? Are you okay?" you asked, feeling your body beginning to heat up, his hands moved from your hips and up to your torso. "Yes, now that I'm with you" he purred against your ear and gave the shell of your ear a kiss, causing your legs to shiver by his words. Are you sure this man was your husband?

He then turned you around, so that you could face him. Your face was all heated up by his actions. You couldn't help but notice how much bigger he had gone, has he been working out and you haven't noticed? He then helped you lay down on the soft bed and give you a kiss on the lips, it felt like ages since he last kissed you. You kissed him back, wrapping your arms around his neck, god you missed this. Miguel then pulled away and began to strip naked, you watched as he removed each article of clothing, exposing his bare toned skin to you.

Miguel then joined you on the bed, he was on his knees and he pulled you up to his lap, boy was he strong. He picked you up as if you were as light as a feather. You were now straddling his lap, with your arms wrapped around his neck again and Miguel's arms around your waist. Again he had pulled you into a kiss, this time it was more heated then the first one, this felt amazing, you had your wishes come true? You couldn't help but grind yourself onto him, trying to feel some kind of friction. You had been wanting feel your husband for years now, ever since the honeymoon phase was over.

He then pulled away from you, causing you to whine for the absence of his lips on your. Instead, Miguel began to kiss down your neck, making you let out a soft moan, he then kissed down to where your collarbones were and he had stopped. He got a hold of your right breasts, giving it a small squeeze and placed your sensitive nipple in his mouth. "Ohh~~" you moaned loudly, as he continued to suck on your nipple, he then pulled away and sucked on the other one, while he pinched the other neglected one. "Miguel~" you moaned softly by his action.

He then pulled away, completely, still pinching and squeezing your breasts, you had to return the favor. "Miggy, want to taste you" you said, then you got off his lap and slid down to the floor. Miguel then turned around and sat on the edge of the bed. You were on your knees. "You don't have to do it if you don't want to" Miguel pointed out, feeling his face get hot by you being on your knees in front of him. "But I want to, It's been a while since I last tasted you" you said while looking up at him, making him blush even harder. You then got a hold of his cock, it was already erects and leaking of precum. You gave it a small kiss on the tip, then you wrapped your lips around his tip, slowly pushing your head down and took him into your mouth. Miguel let out a long breathy moan and his legs to slightly shiver, it's been a while since he had been intimate with anyone. Not even his hand could make him feel the way you're feeling him now.

You moaned around his length, enjoying the feeling of his cock in your mouth. You then began to move your head up and down slowly, allowing your drool to get coated around him. Miguel groaned and gripped tightly onto the bedsheets, this felt amazing, this version of yourself still had it. "..Mmm!.." he bit his lip hard, as you continued to suck most of his length. You wanted to put his whole cock in your mouth, but that was impossible, so you did what you could, you could tell that he was loving it by the way his legs shivered and how he was biting his lip.

"Mi raina!" Miguel let out a loud moan, causing the his voice to eccho in the empty room, followed by the slipring done by you. Miguel felt himself about to cum, but he didn't want to cum in your mouth, instead he wanted to give you the child that you always wanted. "S-Stop!" he said, making you pull away from him, you had drool on chin and a string of saliva connected to your lips from his cock. "What's wrong? Did I hurt you?" you asked, worriedly. "N-No! You're doing amazing! But I want to make love to you now" he said with growl and a smirk, making you fell yourself clench around nothing.

Without a warning, Miguel had picked you up again and gently threw you on the bed, making you bounce. He then pounced on you, getting a hold of your legs, you yelped as he lifted them up all the way to your torso, exposing your pretty wet fold. Miguel stared and he couldn't help but feel his cock twitch by the sigh of you. "Look at you, all ready for me~" he purred, making your face heat up by the comment, he then moved closer to you and placed his cock on your desperate entrance, his tip touched your folds, making you shiver by the feeling of his mushroom like tip touching you.

"Estas lista?" he said in his mother tongue in a whisper, making you even more desperate. "Y-Yes.." you said, as if you were already drunk of him, even though he hasn't don't anything. Miguel them thrusted inside your, making you let out a loud moan, very similar to a scream. "Fuck!" he growled, feeling your cunt around his pulsing cock. He slowly began to move, making you cry out in pleasure, loving the feeling of his huge monster like cock stretching out your cunt.

Miguel had barely began to thrust into you and you were already feeling yourself face into an abyss of pleasure. It was slow at first, but soon he began to pound into you. Causing your legs to burn by the position they were in and your pussy was getting filled by his cock, rapidly. "AH!!~ M-Miguel!!" you moaned, and wrapped your arms around his toned back, digging your nails into his skin. This felt like as if it was the first time you and him were intimate with one another.

He then got a hold of your breasts, he grabbed and squeezed them, he leaned down to suck on your nipples, causing you to let out a small shriek. He then pulled away from your nipple and went up to give you a kiss on the lips. You were to drunk of him that you couldn't kiss him back properly. As he kissed you, he moved his hand down to were your puffy clit was. "You want a kid don't you?" he growled next to your ear, feeling him rubbing slow circles on your clit. "Y-YES! YES!" you basically screamed as he continued to pound into you. "Then Let me give you one~" he said.

Suddenly, his pounding became animalistic and the circles rubbing around your clit got faster. At this point you were screaming and begging for more, you felt yourself getting weak by the pleasure. It was amazing, the best pleasure that you had got since three years ago, you wished that this could last forever or that it could happen more frequently. You enjoyed it for as long as it lasted. Finally you both had cummed at the same time, you let out a loud scream as you covered both his and your body with your juices, while he simply grunted as he filled his cum into your womb.

He didn't pull out right away, instead he leaned down and gave your a sweet kiss on your sore lip. You lightly whimpered but kissed him back. "Are you okay?" he asked, now kissing your cheek and cheekbones. "Oh... I'm more then okay.... that was... god.. I can't even describe how I feel..." you said while trying to catch your breath. He slowly pulled out, causing you to let out a small moan. He then laid next to you and pulled your body against his closely. "Sleep now Mi Amor" he gave you a kiss on your head. As much as you wanted to stay awake, you couldn't, you were feeling tired already. You snuggled close to him and fell asleep against his chest.

The next morning you woke to an empty bed, you were wondering where he could have gone, but you knew that he must have gone to work. You sigh, wishing that maybe you could have a shower together and maybe even do it again before he went to work. Or was this all a dream? You sat up, but you felt your legs feel sore, you then realized that it was not, this actually happed. You felt yourself giggle and squirm around the sheets. Again, was this man really your husband?

[tarjapearce]

Mi Dulce Cereza (Pt.5)

Ranchero! Miguel O'Hara x F!reader

WARNINGS: pure fluff undercut.

Summary: Miguel shows you another part of your future world together.

Inspo by @choppednerdtriumph ❤️❤️

Intro:

Minutes kept ticking, and the road just stretched more and more before you. For how long had he been driving? Maybe two hours, you weren't sure. All you cared was that you were free.

Free of the leash your parents had conditioned you, free of the deceiving and pretense games, free of your mom, free to make your own desicions. Free.

The initial smile on Miguel’s face had disappeared after an hour of driving, he took a detour to the next town. Trees and dry land were the only scenarios that you had seen so far, then another one joined.

If your town was small, this was even smaller. A few states here and there, some dinners around, a little drugstore, gas station and of course a couple of hotels and a white, one floor building; the words 'Canew Valley Courthouse' engraved in the banner. Miguel parked before it, and then rushed to open your door.

"C'mon."

He kissed it and helped you out from the car, a red Ford F-150 that needed another layer of sanding and painting. He guided you into the building, hand in hand.

"Excuse me, ma'am?" He tipped his hat at the lady as he greeted with a polite smile.

"May I help you, sir?"

"Yes. Are the magistrates still on duty?"

"Of course, you'd have to wait a couple of minutes if your intention is to be wed. They are officiating one in this moment."

"It's fine. Thank you very much, dear." You smiled and followed Miguel. You both sat outside the main office. He sighed deeply and looked at you.

"Cerecita?"

"Yes, Miguel?"

"You scared?"

"A bit, yeah." Nodding, you rested your head on his bicep. Toned but the perfect pillow for you.

"But it's fine. To feel afraid, I mean. We're eloping" a chuckled escaped your lips.

"I know you probably pictured a big wedding with a shit ton of people. You will have it. Promise, just -"

"Miguel."

You sat properly and cupped his cheek

"Darling, you don't have to worry about that. They'd probably just assist to see what they could criticize and they'd be probably people that I wouldn't even know. By this time I'm pretty sure the news are spreading through town."  Your hand entwined with his

"This is the realest thing I can have of getting married."

"It will be better, I promise"

"It's alright. As long as you don't get the cold feet?"

His head shook with a loving smile.

"Jamás." (Never)

You understood better than you actually talked spanish. If it wasn't for your mother raising you mostly in english, you would've be able to comunicate with him perfectly.

After a good half hour, the door was open and another young couple left the main office, their laughs and giggles made your stomach bubble. Golden band around each finger and a paper folder in a hand. You both were instructed to enter and give your respective ID documents and your witness.

"Witness?"

"Yeah, you need at least two of them to get married." The judge had explained to you.

"Anyone?" Miguel asked

"Sure."

You couldn't help but feel your cheeks getting warmer as he asked the front desk lady and another assistant to act like your witnesses. Then you filled in the paperwork.

Do you take this woman as your lawful wife?

"I do" His eyes gazed lovingly at you as his hand held you with utmost care.

Do you take this man as your lawful husband?

"I do" You smiled, he beamed.

Mrs. O'Hara. You were now a married woman. A legally married woman.

The judge gave you the certificate and as soon as you both left the office, he swooped you off your feet and kissed you deeply as you giggled.

"Mrs. O'Hara." He'd squeeze you after thanking the front desk lady.

"Yes, Mr. O'Hara?"

"You're mine now. Mi esposa." (My wife)

"All yours."

"Are you feeling good?"

"A bit nervous, and hungry."

"Let's get you some food."

-----

He spoiled you with a little feast at the local dinner, Good old brunch, a tall glass of orange juice and of course a bit of cherry pie. He stared as you ate with contempt. As sun was hiding behind purple and peach skies, you were back on the road again before getting you some suplies like tissues and a little travel pillow for your neck.

The destination seemed another hour to go. If it wasn't for him stopping at every 30 minute mark for you to puke on the road, you'd have surely arrived alot earlier. You were deep asleep when the car stopped.

"Cerecita" Miguel stirred you gently, you curled into his touch, "Mi amor, wake up"

"Hm?"

"We're here."

The truck lighted up to reveal a creaky and rusted yet still sturdy pair of metal doors, that opened after he honked the truck a couple of times. Pebbled road crunched underneath the truck's tires as he drove further into the property. You barely could see past the dense foliage and some construction supplies perched up in different spaces.

You removed the collar pillow with a yawn and tucked the blanket around you. Air quality was pure, a stark contrast from your old home. The air felt stuffy, heavy and sometimes even dusty. But here, in Miguel's property, it was different. Air was pure, with  distinctive tints of pinewood and fruity trees, along some earthy undertones.

Your nausea had stopped. Your eyes wandered at the place, a white two story colonial styled home. Rounded archs as collumns, of course more construction supplies laying in a corner, a hammoc in the left, only the lower floor was lit up. An elder woman, probably in her early fifties, chubby, energetic, with a sharp look, dressed in a long skirt and cotton shirt, a loose braided bun adorned her round yet gentle face came into view.

Her eyes lit up with a motherly kind of joy upon watching him approach the entrance. Her colorful poncho draped around her chest.

"Mijo!" Miguel squeezed her in a tight hug, then gave her a loving smooch on her weathered cheeks.

"¡Por Dios, por fín regresas!" (My goodness you've finally returned!)

There was a warm feeling spreading through your chest as you watched their interaction.

"I know, I know. Took longer than I should've. But...-"

"Ay si si, luego me explicas. Where is she?" (Yeah, yeah, tell me about it later)

You stepped into view and she smacked his chest.

"Ah canijo, no que no te gustaban las citadinas?" (You Imp, though you'd said you didn't like city girls.)

Miguel chuckled and helped you closer to her.

"Cerecita, mi amor, she's Victoria Huerta. My mom."

"Uy, mi amor. Hear yourself"

"Ya pues!" (Enough)

Victoria giggled and patted his shoulder, then cupped your cheeks and smiled at you as Miguel crossed his arms.

"Si es que está chulísima!" (She's so gorgeous!)

Your smile stretched nervously at her words.

"He's always had a thing for girls with Ya know" Her hands mimicking curves and you giggled. Your name rolled of your tongue

"Nice to meet you, Victoria"

"My pleasure to meet the woman that finally tamed this cabrón." She gave a gentle pull at Miguel's ears, "At your service, querida. How far are you?"

You blinked and stared at Miguel, which smile widened at the warm welcome Victoria gave you.

"U-uh, I'm seven weeks"

"Brough this man and his brother to the world. Can't believe I'm gonna bring yours now. I've got you, cariño"

"Thank you, Mrs. Huerta"

"Don't be so polite Mija, call me Vicky. Are you hungry?"

"Not really-"

"None of that. I'll get you some hot cocoa. Probably puked in the way here didn't you?"

You nodded with a bashful smile

"You need something to sit your stomach. I'll go prepare it, I'll tell the boys to help you out with the lugage."

"Thank you, Vicky"

She had left and Miguel cradled you in his arms.

"She's so loving."

"Nosy and annoying too" He chuckled fondly, "Raised me when things got difficult. I owe her so much." His hands took yours as he lead you inside.

The lower floor seemed done, new tiles that extended in colorful yet intricate patterns, unlike your once plain white titled floors. The doors shone in fresh lacquer, the livingroom had a furniture set and a large tv in the middle, at this point the construction materials seemed a staple.

You sat on the couch and Miguel followed, two young men greeted him and he gave them instructions to get your lugage to the main bedroom.

-----

Clock ticked 10 pm, and you yawned. At this time you'd be tucked in your large bed, duvet draped over your body, not worrying about a thing.

It wasn't that different from what you were experiencing, You wondered about your parents, what they'd be doing, what would they be saying. Nothing good probably. None of that mattered when you had changed into one of his shirts since you couldn't remember the suitcase you had stored your pajamas in.

He slipped into bed next to you. Hands immediately hoarding you in his arms. The cup of hot cocoa Vicky prepared you made wonders in your stomach, her stories about Miguel being a serious yet goofy kid had only helped to soothe your tense nerves.

"Hey"

You smiled and kissed him

"Hey."

"Feeling good?" He nuzzled your neck

"Better with you here."

"Still scared?"

"No. Just thinking"

"About me, I hope"

You chuckled and ran a hand through his  hair

"Always. Yeah."

"Good. That's good."

He put a hand on your lower belly and rested his head on your chest. Heart giving steady and deep beats.

"Promise It'll look better."

"Hm?"

"The place. I know it's not like what you're used to-"

"Miguel."

His hands tensed on your hip.

"Look at me, Miguel"

His eyes gazed yours, soft hands reached for his stubbly cheeks.

"It's perfect. It's yours."

"Ours" He corrected and your head gave a gentle shake.

"It's yours. You've earned it on your own. I can't just... barge in and take credit for something I haven't helped in."

"Its ours." He insisted and you squeezed him.

"Te prometo que... te haré feliz." (I promise you that I'll make you happy)

"What makes you think I'm not?"

Warm eyes stared at him, conveying something only he knew. Love and understanding.

"You're such a wonderful man, I've got you for myself entirely, None is gonna bother us for loving eachother. None will talk ill about our child."

His face frowned a little, ruining his lovesick expression.

"None will ever make you feel like you're less, cause, you're everything I could ask for."

His heart leaped and he squeezed you, earning him a squeal.

"I was supposed to say that."

He kissed your forehead and cradled you closer, relishing your heat and warmth.

"Too bad."

"Still, I wanna give you everything."

"I just want you." You mumbled sleepily.

"Wait..."

"Hm?"

His body separated from yours to search something in his drawer. You sat down on the bed with a lazy smile.

"What is it?"

"Give me your hand. Forgot something important"

Your hand stretched towards him and he placed a ring on your finger.

"Perfect fit." He smiled and your eyes went wide.

"Thought I had forgotten about it?"

"I wasn't thinking in the rings if I'm honest"

You picked the other one from his palm and slid it through his finger

"There."

His hand brought yours and nodded, looking at both rings in each finger.

"Me gusta. Me gusta cómo se ven" (I like it. I like how they look.)

"I love your hands" He cupped your face with them and you kissed his palm.

"I love you. Whole."

Your heart swelled in contempt.

"I love you too."

----

You woke up alone, with another colorful duvet ontop on you. Morning sickness seemed to take a break from tormenting you, and allowed you to rest properly for once. The cold metallic band around your finger made your lips curve. The pillow smelled like him, your hands pulled it closer to sink your face in it.

A little of fabric softener mixed with his natural musk. It was nerve soothing, lulling you back to sleep.

The door was knocked around 11, Vicky's voice called in before entering.

"Mija? You ok?"

You stirred awake in the bed and smiled at her.

"Sorry, I overslept"

"Nada de eso. You're pregnant. It's good. Seems you needed it." (None of that.)

"I wanted to make some breakfast for Miguel, but I was so tired"

"He's working on the barn."

You rolled your eyes at the piece of info.

"The day that man isn't working in the farm or stables I'll know something is wrong."

"He told me about your family"

"Ah... them. Yeah."

"Sorry to be nosy or seeming so. He just tells me everything."

"He told me about you too."

"Good things I hope"

Her lips turned into a smirk, you just followed.

"C'mon. I'll make you something to eat. Then I can show you around."

"Thank you, Vicky"

-----

The Brunch was delicious, full and of course it had stopped briefly your nauseas. With Victoria's knowledge in babies, she was feeding you things that would do little to upset your stomach.

Once you were fed and ready, Victoria took you to the barns, to see Miguel.

The property seemed to be under massive renovations, since the barn still needed the roof and the doors were missing. Miguel was installing one of the doors when you arrived.

"Morning" Your voice stopped his doings,  he embraced you with care.

"Buenos días, Cerecita. Slept well?"

Nodding you kissed him and Vicky just patted his lower back.

"I'm showing her around."

"Good."

"See you later then"

He just kissed you and went back to work. Vicky walked alongside with you. She took you to another part of the estate. Pebbles extended in every path you walked, crunching under your shoes.

"I apologize for the mess, the workforce is in vacations and will return within two weeks."

"It's fine. Really. He also apologized for it. There is no need. These places take their time."

"When he first told me that he would work for someone else, it got me concerned. He isn't one for... y'know such things. His temper is short"

"It's odd to hear that when he has been nothing but loving and sweet with me"

"That's cause he loves you and you're his wife, Mija."

You giggled.

"When he first came to my parent's estate, he was quiet, always hardworking even tamed a horse my dad was about to sacrifice."

"Agustín?"

You nodded and sighed.

"I told my dad that I would return for the horses later, but that can wait."

"Do you think it's a good idea to go back?"

"I know it's risky, but can't leave the horses in there, knowing something could happen to them."

"Sounds difficult"

"Yeah. If not? Then, I'll come up with something."

Victoria took you through the places. The barn was smaller, but it was the most complete area so far, then, she took you to a parcel, ready to be used for growing things. Victoria had explained that Miguel initially was going to use it for an extension of the stables, but quickly changed his mind when you had told him that you'd love to have your own orchard.

"So this is for you. Not ready yet, but it's yours." Vicky held you by your shoulders with a kind smile on her face.

"I could work in this in the mean time."

"He'd probably say no and want you to. rest, but its good to keep yourself active, makes the birth a bit less painful"

"Say no more then."

Vicky and you spent a good time chatting as you visited the places. To your surprise, there were a few fruit trees. Apples, oranges, mango, lemon and guava trees. A couple of bushes of wild roses here and there, and some other wild flowers. Land was fertile enough for life to be sustainable enough

Miguel owed a little cattle. A couple of cows, goats and sheep, two young horses, Lalo and Lyla. A coup of chickens and a bull named Tito who was in charge of work the land.

It was small, but it was his. And they all seemed healthy. His heart was put in it and it showed. All those six months he spent working at your parent's state had granted him enough money to start renovating his own place. A gift from his late father.

It would take time, but certainly the place had potential.

Vicky had explained that once the upper floor was done, You'd move upstairs.

You helped her with lunch. It made sense for her to be the only one helping out with the domestic things so far, but that didn't stop her for doing other things. She was a farm woman at heart as well.

"You think he learned all that with the horses by himself? No, no. Yo le enseñé. Miguel le tenía pánico a los caballos." (I taught him, he was terrified of the horses)

You laughed and plated he food.

"And look at him now, a horse whisperer"

You snorted as Miguel and the helpers rounded up.

"Food's done." You gave big portions to each, as they all sat on the same table as you were. Your mother surely would have a heart attack if you ever got to mingle with the servants. But sitting together, like a big family made you feel homey. Welcomed even.

"I'll start working on the orchard tomorrow." You announced while taking a sip of your lemonade.

"You need to rest up. Leave that to me"

"No, I wanna help."

"Cerecita..."

"You said it was our home. So, I will help too."

"Es igualita a ti de terca." (She's just as stubborn as you are.)

The workers gave respectful but silent laughs. Paco and Joseph were their names.

"Besides, Vicky said that it's good to keep oneself active during pregnancy. So, yeah. I'll fill it up with many things."

He took your hand and kissed it with a little smile.

"As you wish, mi amor."

----

The evening came and Miguel took a bath, then joined in your shared room. You were folding and organizing your working clothes in a little space left in the closet. The fancy and pompous sort of things remained in the bigger luggage bags.

"I was thinking"

"In me, I hope" He chuckled as you used his words.

"Always, yeah" He plopped on the bed and watched you.

"Maybe we can have our wedding once the estate is finished."

"Oh?" You sat on the bed and laid your head on his lap. Larger hands immediately going through your hair with soft caresses.

"I mean, we're already married."

"I know, but want it to make it right. I wanna see you in a white dress, all beautiful."

"Can I see you in a Charro outfit?" Your giggles only echoed a bit louder as he placed a hand on your tummy, rubbing in circles.

"You'll have me in a Charro outfit."

"Will have to make a custom dress though, the belly will be big enough by then. Or who knows, the baby might be born by then."

"You want a boy or a girl?"

"I don't know really. It doesn't matter. I'll love my child the same. You?"

"A girl"

"How would you name her?"

"Gabriela."

"That's a cute name, yeah. And if it's a boy?"

"Miguel Jr."

You giggled and pulled him down for a kiss.

"Joking. I don't know. Haven't thought about it if it's a boy."

"What if they're twins?"

"Double prize? I mean, that wouldn't stop me from trying in giving you a third one"

"Miguel!"

He cradled you in his arms and his his face in your neck. A place that seemed to bring him comfort. Your hands caressed his hair, soothing and gentle as you straddled him. There was no words that needed to be said at the moment, so you just sat there, basking in each other's company and loving embrace, until Vicky called you both for supper. Once, twice and the third time she knocked on your door.

"Ya sé que más embarazada no la puedes dejar, pero déjala que coma siquiera, Miguel!" (I know you can't get her any more pregnant, but at least let her eat!)

Vicky's words only made your cheeks burn and Miguel grumble.

"Ya vamos!" (Coming!)

"My god."

"Better get used to that"

He kissed your forehead and soon both joined Victoria and the helpers. Life was just starting to take shape for you, and of course, you couldn't be more grateful and happy.

[stvknt2]

3. Fallow.

Cereza sat in Vinnie's office waiting for him to get back in. Things are running very slowly at the casino. In fact, Vinnie says it's somewhat worrisome. People not coming in is obviously bad for business. He worries that another casino may be getting his business.

Cereza won't admit it, but she’s glad the casino is less active. It means that she doesn't need to fling herself at every man she sees, hoping that he'd be willing to buy some time with her, Vinnie and his wife aren't expecting their ladies to have much money, how can they? It would be setting the ladies up for failure. Cereza is just glad that she gets to spend some alone time with Vinnie. No looking over his shoulder and making sure no one would catch them.

There's a lot of that these days. As Vinnie and Cereza get more serious, things get more complicated. Sometimes she wonders how she got into this situation in the first place. She wasn't supposed to be the other woman. She was going to be a hook up at most. But he has a way of talking to her that just makes her melt. Not to mention how he looks at her! It drives her insane. It's been such a long time since she has been desired like this by someone. Her husband was similar, but there's always been an edge to him. Thinking about her husband made her stomach twist.

Slow days like this make her think about what led her here in the first place. She could curse out her husband if given the chance, if she wasn't so afraid of him.

She shook her head violently, hoping to shake the thoughts about him out of her head. There's no need to think about her husband, not when Vinnie will be back at any moment. They'll lounge around and talk about their days, so close in an intimate way she couldn't be with her husband. Just talk. She never has to worry about saying the wrong thing, she never has to walk on eggshells. Vinnie cares about her, all of her.

[entreldolorylanada]

L’home. <3

https://www.instagram.com/nachovegasig/

https://www.instagram.com/pacolocostudio/

[ravenwitch45]

Story time with the Goetia household! Whether a child Stolas is reading by himself or an adult Stolas is reading to a little Octavia, they are taking the time to read a new storybook. [Part 7]

This is a continued reading of "Cereza and the Lost Demon".

Moving on...

Special mention of a celestial event: The full moon of the bissextile night ⬇️

(Would that mean anything to the Goetia prince?)

Enochian summoning chant: BAATAIVA TORZU ("Elemental King of Air, arise!") ⬇️

Demon fact #1: ⬇️

Demon fact #2: ⬇️

What thoughts, feelings, and opinions do you think Stolas (and Octavia) would be having when reading this part?

Okay so actually had to do some googling for what Bisextile means, which is an old name for a leap day, meaning this is specifically happening on a full moon on Febuary 29th of that year, just found that intersting. Anyway, of course we know Stolas holds a Full Moon as a special event, which I feel was a thing even before his 'arrangement' with Blitz, so I'd think he'd find it very cool it's mentioned like this as the zenith of power for the Umbra. Maybe sprinkling a little bit of his own feelings on it to Octavia. Though I feel she'd be entranced by Morgana's brace just like Cereza. BTW thanks for the translation, I feel Stolas would at least know enough Enochian to recognize it, even though usually Enochian is just angellic unlike in Bayonetta, so I feel he'd appreciate an somewhat accurate incantation of magic even if he's not much of a summoner, maybe telling Octavia what it means before the dog shows up.

The first fact would certainly be tense as the Dog leaps at Cereza before vanishing, Stolas possibly inwardly chuckling in memory at how some who've summoned him panicked at not being able to control him, before Octavia looks up at him, asking if they'd also die by staying too long in the human realm, Stolas pulling her onto his lap before explaining it's not a concern for them, it's just storied intrepertation with no bearing to them which calms her down.

I think both would be upset at Morgana's reaction, Stolas probably more angrilly while Octavia just has second hand pain from Cereza clearly being hurt by the whole thing, overall a very emotional end to this part, Stolas pratically glaring Morgana's retreating image and Octavia twiddles her tiny claws awkwardly.

[subsequentibis]

2, 7, 9 and 10 for laz, sal and john?

wooo let's put this one under a cut!

2. Why does your oc look the way they do? What are your reasons for their appearance?

sal is pretty heavily inspired by most of the tall gangly awkward sweaty weirdo scientist/researcher characters i recall fondly from a lot of media i liked growing up, plus hair that's fun to draw and that mimics the fungus's tendril shapes. she started out looking fairly different as my vtm character, but then i fell a little in love with dev patel (and this was also when i was still drawing her as a man) so she ended up closer to his look in david copperfield. purple is a color that doesn't exist much in nature, or so i've heard, so it can have a mystical/spooky/unnatural feeling to it, especially i think a kind of paler ghostly purple, which is why i chose it for her sweater. similarly i gave her grey eyes because i feel like they give off a slightly unusual or unnatural vibe while also being very beautiful. she gets a turtleneck because i gave her my fear of/discomfort with having my neck touched to an extreme degree, she doesn't even like feeling the wind on it. the rest of her clothes are brown/dark tones to give her an earthy and grounded feel. i'm not very good at thinking of outfits so i made her like a cartoon character that only has one set of clothing but just gave her sensory issues so she has a whole wardrobe of nearly identical sweaters, pants, and jackets for comfort. originally i was going to have the fungus able to chameleon-esque shift color so it would be mimicking her hand and eye almost exactly except for almost imperceptible lines where the tendrils meet, but i ended up not liking that idea so much and gave her gloves & a glass eye to hide the bits that she loses over the course of the story. she's long and spindly because i tend to think of her hunched up and curling in on herself, like she's always felt just a little bit too big and is trying to compensate for it, and also because that's very fun to draw.

lazarus is pretty heavily inspired by john constantine, sam vimes, columbo, hellboy, any cigar/cigarette-chomping long coat-wearing detective or investigator with a dry sense of humor. he's gone through a couple versions actually, he was my character in several different ttrpgs until i settled on him as a detective npc for an urban shadows campaign i ran and that really nailed down a lot for him looks and attitude-wise. grey raincoat to help him blend in a little more with the city, i like to think he could lean against a concrete wall and almost disappear. big stompy boots or heeled shoes because he's short as hell and wants to look taller. red as an accent color for blood/fire/etc. actually i debated red eyes as well for a bit and finally settled on orange because, of all things, pilferingapples drew bahorel with these really lovely orangey whiskey colored eyes and that always struck me as gorgeous. i just cranked up the orange to make them obviously not natural and as a connection to lava. he's a bit of wish fulfillment for me as a trans man - short but with a broader build, fairly strong shoulders and hips but a bit of stomach to fill out between so he's not really hourglass-y at all. hairy all over, big obvious top surgery scars that will get an update to probably look like flames or claw marks soon, and covered in interesting scars. i always wanted to come up with a story behind all of them but i only ever figured out ones for two, one on his knee and the brand on his chest that ties him to his demonic patron. he had a shitty tiny ponytail for a long time because i love getting my hair just long enough to have a tiny shitty ponytail, but his hair started getting longer over time and now i like him with long hair. cringefail facial hair. he cannot grow a mustache to save his life but that's not gonna stop him.

ok so john. john was originally a hotel podcast oc, as in like i had this idea that the owner might have once been a human guy and got yoinked and twisted to fit the hotel's needs. so john was just my design for the owner but a little more saturated, like he goes semi-greyscale when he gets got. i ditched the turquoise bolo tie when i decided i wanted him in underbelly and i'm trying to fill his wardrobe out a little more with clothes that a divorced dad trying to find his feet again after a painful break up might pick for 'fun'. where laz was my wish fulfillment as a trans man back in college, when i was barely beginning to believe i could possibly be genderweird, john is my wish fulfillment as a trans man now. tall, beefy, hairy, big shaggy sideburns. he's got less thought put into him than the others because he's not been around as long, give him a few years to mature in the soup and i'm sure he'll develop.

7. Does your oc have any notable skills or good personality traits? Why did you give them those traits? Why do they exist in-universe?

see prev answer for sal!

lazarus is somewhat similar to sal in that he's quick to pick up on tiny details, but i would call him more street smart than book smart. i wanted the two of them to have a bit of a battle of the minds going on, not quite like death note levels but more like your average columbo episode. laz is in total control of himself at pretty much all times, as well - he is driven primarily by anger, but he's had enough time to figure out how to use anger instead of being used by it. sometimes he loses control but it's rare. he has a good relationship with a lot of people in the underbelly, he makes a point to help out where he can and engages in a lot of favor-swapping. i really want him to be a pillar of the community sort of guy, someone really intensely invested in the space they've helped to build because he's been aimless and wandering in the past and it's no way to live. he's a bit world weary and can come across as cynical, but deep down even if he doesn't believe in the inherent goodness of man, he thinks man can be dragged kicking and screaming towards some kind of goodness.

john is a good natured and good hearted kind of guy, despite his flaws he has a fairly strong sense of right and wrong and he's really fiercely loyal and protective of his loved ones. frankly see that one post that's like 'character that's submissive in the way a guard dog is submissive'. he's lost people and relationships in the past for various reasons so when he finds something that sticks he's desperate to keep them close and safe and intact.

9. In a group dynamic, what kind of role does the oc usually fill? Are they a worry wart? A troublemaker? The straight man?

sal is the worrier for sure and the one who goes home early because she's not having fun. laz is the one you think is the straight man until a third act subversion and then he's either covered in other people's blood or has challenged the biggest guy in the bar to a drinking contest that he will win and then make out with said guy. john is the designated driver.

10. What is your favorite trait regarding your oc?

i love sal's cowardice. it's really meaningful and special to me how little she wants to do with anything happening to her and how she figures out how to deal with it anyway and succeed while never really getting over how much she wants to just go home and get in bed.

my favorite lazarus trait is his anger, because i love a character who lets their rage bubble and boil under the surface while appearing completely calm until they just explode, but like a controlled demolition.

i love john's ability to adapt. when he ends up in the underbelly it's not long at all before he's got a stable job & a place to live & people who call him friend because he just goes with the flow and makes it work. yeah he's got goat eyes and horns and he sleeps on a pile of hay now bc he's too big for his bed most nights but hey, could be worse!

[cerezagyaru]

It's like 3 a.m. or something, but I can't stop thinking about this scenario.

Every time you see someone drinking something with a yellowish color, you can't stop yourself from doing this.

Paimon: *drinking apple cider peacefully*

You: paimon.. that's not what you think it is..

Paimon: *really confused and a little scared*

You: Because that's PIAZZZ

Paimon: *screaming*

Diluc: *explain things about apple cider* Look carefully your grace, for reference. On the right, it is what good apple cider should look like.

You: *thinking* So let me get this straight. You're telling me, good apple cider.. has to look like PIZZZSSS

____________

Yeah I been laughing so hard with these types of tik toks 🤧 anyway. If I feel right tomorrow, maybe I will write more ejen4ofk

🪼Cereza🪼

[rosachaotic]

Talbott x MC(Cereza)

Silent bloom

"It's Valentine's Day at Hogwarts, and love is in the air, along with a whiff of that tricky amortentia potion. Snape teaches the fourth year students about amortentia, the potion stirs unexpected emotions among students, unraveling concealed affections for their fellow classmates, including Talbott, who finally realizes he's got a thing for his best friend Cereza. On the flip side, Cereza, clueless about Talbott's feelings, hears about the whole amortentia drama and decides she needs to find out what went down."

(I dont really like the first valentines day sq so I decided to write my own story because why not?)

It was Valentine's Day, and the air was thick with love, intermingled with nervousness, shyness, and, unfortunately, quite a bit of rejection. And then there was Amortentia – that enchanting elixir of infatuation and intrigue. Professor Snape had orchestrated a lesson on spotting and detecting Amortentia's intoxicating aroma for the students, hoping to arm students against the temptation should anyone ever offer them the love potion.

Cereza, a Hufflepuff with a penchant for curiosity, had already endured this peculiar class alongside her fellow Hufflepuff housemates and even the enigmatic Slytherin students from the fourth year. The room had buzzed with embarrassed and befuddled teenagers as they inhaled the scents that sent their hearts aflutter. Cereza's Amortentia had, at first, been pleasant, but then it transformed into something reminiscent of the owlery. Perplexed but also confused, she decided to ignore and carry on.

After her class, it was time for Gryffindors and Ravenclaws to undergo this intriguing experience together. Cereza's twin brother, Michael, a proud Gryffindor, was next in line, and she couldn't help but be curious about what his Amortentia would smell like. In the meantime while she waited for his class to be over, latecomers exchanged Valentine's Day letters, chocolates, and other romantic tokens, and Cereza watched with a wistful gaze, yearning for such a day in her future.

Her thoughts were abruptly interrupted by Michael's irate arrival at the Hufflepuff table, despite his Gryffindor status, cheeks ablaze and an angry pout on his lips. Cereza, aware of her brother's notorious temper, couldn't help but say, "Uh oh. What now?"

Michael mirrored her question, his anger seething. "What now?!" he repeated, his voice ringing through the Great Hall, causing Cereza to caution him against a house points debacle.

"Calm down, and don't yell. Professor Snape could hear you, and you know what happened last time," she warned him, making her twin roll his eyes, as he knew exactly what she was talking about.

"I don't give a darn…" he muttered, though he knew Cereza was right.

Cereza sighed and fixed her gaze on him. "Was it the Amortentia class?" she inquired.

"OF COURSE, IT WAS THAT RIDICULOUS LESSON!"

"Merlin's beard, don't shout!"

"Sorry," Michael grumbled, still visibly embarrassed and angry. "It's just that I may have let slip something that could attract unwanted attention."

Cereza's curiosity piqued, and she rested her chin in her hands, her golden eyes gleaming. "Oh, embarrassing revelations? Tell me more," she prodded, earning another eye-roll from her brother, who still seethed with annoyance.

"Whatever, I just blurted out my thoughts..."

"What did you say?"

Michael, to keep it brief, explained that he may have mentioned that the Amortentia scent reminded him of someone, but before he could reveal the name, he had shut his mouth, inadvertently letting the entire class in on his secret crush. For Cereza, this came as no surprise; she knew her brother was enamored with a particular Slytherin student with a gentle heart.

"At least my reaction wasn't as bad as Winger's," Michael chuckled mischievously.

This comment left Cereza both curious and concerned. Talbott Winger was her best friend, a mysterious student with very few friends, making her unique connection with him the talk of the school.

"What happened to him?" she asked, her worry evident as her brother swiped a sandwich from her plate and began to munch.

"I don't know. When he smelled the Amortentia, his eyes went WIDE," he answered between bites. "His face turned as red as a tomato."

"Really???"

"Yeah, and he was so surprised, that he stepped back and knocked into the table behind him, nearly causing a commotion. Professor Snape noticed and reprimanded him, shifting the attention away from me."

Cereza shook her head in disappointment that her brother found humor in this, especially given the peculiar rivalry between Michael and Talbott. "I don't find it funny. What happened next?"

"Oh, he bolted from the classroom."

"HE WHAT?!"

"Whoa, remember what you said about not yelling?" Michael teased, causing Cereza to react with indignation; she was just worried about her friend, especially given that Talbott wouldn't leave class out of nowhere. "But anyway, Tulip offered to chase after him, but Snape advised against it. He did lose quite a few house points, though."

"Oh dear... Why do you think he reacted that way?"

"Are you serious? Isn't it obvious?" Michael stared at her, his expression a mix of disbelief and amusement. "He's got a crush on someone, Cereza. I feel bad for whoever that poor, unsuspecting soul may be."

Cereza came to Talbott's defense, her anger evident. "Don't say that!"

"But it's true!"

As Michael continued to pilfer her food, Cereza couldn't help but ponder who Talbott's secret crush might be. Was it Penny? It wouldn't be surprising, given her beauty and intelligence and for some reason this caused a heavy feeling in Cereza's heart and she didnt understand why it made her feel that way... He was just a friend, right? But anyways who wouldn't be smitten by Penny? If it wasn't her, then the question remained: who was it that had captured Talbott's heart?

—---

Beyond the castle walls, Penny, a bright and young Hufflepuff with a profound affection and talent for potion-making, was on a determined quest to find her friend, the mysterious Ravenclaw, Talbott Winger. The murmurs of the Amortentia incident had reached her ears, and an urgent sense of purpose compelled her to seek him out. After her not finding nowhere inside the castle she knew exactly where to go: to the owlery, a place shunned by many for its owl chatter, the perpetual dirt, and distinctive aroma. For Talbott, however, it held an inexplicable charm, a sanctuary where he retreated when lost in thought and be alone and Penny knew that.

Climbing a set of stairs, she found him amidst the fluttering feathers and soulful hoots, his attention fixated on a specific owl, gently caressing its head, an act of affection returned by the feathered creature.

"There you are!" Penny exclaimed, her voice resonating with genuine concern, nearly shouting in her relief. Talbott, her fellow Ravenclaw, shifted his surprised gaze her way. "I was so worried for you."

Talbott turned his gaze toward Penny, then back at the owl, his expression a cocktail of embarrassment and an attempt to mask it. "What do you want...?" he inquired, his voice carrying a subtle tone of irritation.

"I came looking for you. I heard you vanished after Snape's class, and I was genuinely concerned," Penny explained, her voice subtly conveying, 'Why are you even asking? We're friends, after all.' "WE were worried."

"We?" Talbott repeated her words, staring at her with a quizzical expression.

"Yeah! Me and Cereza!" She explains as Cereza herself also came to her a while ago, asking if she knew where Talbott was.

Talbott's eyes widened as he heard the other’s Hufflepuf’s name, and he shook his head, turning his gaze away as if he hoped to shield his reaction. "So, others besides you also know about it."

"Duh, it's the talk of the school," Penny chimed in with a playful smile. "Everyone's dying to know who has captured the mysterious Talbott Winger's heart."

"And by 'everyone,' you're also including yourself, aren't you?" he asked, his arms crossed, his gaze carrying a tinge of judgment, and a raised eyebrow.

"Yep!" Penny replied, revealing a layer of honesty that made Talbott snort with amusement, his apprehension momentarily lightened. At least Penny was straightforward, and he genuinely enjoyed her company, viewing her as a friend.

"It's not you, so don't worry," Talbott jokes, trying to joke about the conversation as a way to make it less awkward for him.

"I know it's not me, you idiot," Penny laughed. "But I think I've got a pretty good idea of who it is." Talbott rolled his eyes at her statement as she almost sang it.

"No, you don't."

"You're not as good at hiding your emotions and gazes as you think, Talbott," she teased, strolling around him.

"Oh, really?" he countered. "So, who is it?"

She met his gaze, her blue eyes sparkling mischievously as she circled him, playing with her blonde braids. "Well... it's someone you adamantly claimed you weren't friends with until you finally relented..."

Penny began to describe, and Talbott's discomfort grew as he attempted to hide it, still with his arms crossed to his chest, his posture shifting from confidence to that of someone who'd been caught.

"Someone who likes helping others, has a soft spot for even the most dangerous magical creatures..."

Oh no.

"Someone who is kind and gentle, has the cutest afro puffs..."

Talbott's cheeks started to burn as Penny continued.

"Has the most beautiful golden eyes I've ever seen, and is freckled from head to toe..."

Penny smirked, noticing the effect her words were having on Talbott as his posture shifted once more, from confident to revealed.

Her eyes danced with excitement as she continued, "Someone who's a fellow Hufflepuff but also... a curse breaker!" Her words brimmed with enthusiasm as she proclaimed, "The lucky person who has your cold heart in her gentle hands is none other than...

Cereza Gomez herself! Am I correct, Talbott?" Her playful tone held a hint of anticipation, a touch of mischief in her sparkling eyes.

"...I have no idea what you're talking about," Talbott stammered, his voice revealing his discomfort and embarrassment. He attempted to leave the conversation, his cheeks still burning with embarrassment, and his nervousness more palpable than ever, but Penny stood her ground, blocking his path.

"Wait-"

"Leave me alone!" Talbott blurted out, his frustration and unease apparent. He hurried past her, his hurried exit a clear sign that he was running away, not just from Penny, but from the emotions he couldn't bring himself to confront. Penny noticed that the owl he was petting early had a worried look as if it understood the situation and Penny immediately recognized who this owl was from: It was Cereza's.

Penny pouted, her finger gently pressed against her chin as she contemplated the enigma that was Talbott Winger. She watched him disappear from the owlery, knowing he was in denial about his feelings for Cereza. She didn't mean to make him this uncomfortable but the question remained – how could she help him face the truth and his true emotions?

—----

As Talbott briskly exited the owlery, the cold air outside offered no solace for the internal tempest raging within him. He fixed his uniform as a way of showing he was fine. Penny’s words echo the turmoil in his mind. He found himself at a crossroads, caught in a dilemma that demanded a decision — confront his true feelings for Cereza or bury them deep within, shielding himself from the potential pain of rejection and the risk of ruining their friendship.

As he roamed the Hogwarts corridor, Talbott couldn't escape the intense scrutiny of fourth-year students; whispers trailed him like shadows. Deciding to retreat to his dorm, he flopped onto his bed. Staring at the ceiling, thoughts of Cereza took over, a rollercoaster of emotions he hadn't signed up for. Initially unimpressed by her and her brother, time had woven a connection, evolving from attachment to full-blown admiration, spiraling into something beyond his control.

Laying on his bed, his mind drifted to Cereza. Her kindness felt like a cozy blanket, wrapping around him. Sweet nature characterized by caring gestures to friends, himself included. The mental image of her, beautiful and cute with freckles like stardust, sent a blush creeping across his cheeks.

The way she effortlessly brought a smile to his face whether through a simple chat or her captivating antics. There was one memorable occasion when she proudly unveiled a magical creature she had successfully tamed – a lively Niffler. As she introduced the creature, it took mere moments for the mischievous Niffler to spy something glittering in her pockets. What ensued was a delightful chaos. Cereza, determined to safeguard her shiny possession, engaged in a whimsical battle with the persistent Niffler. Picture her attempting to pry the creature off, only for it to cling back with unmatched tenacity. The comical scene unfolded as Cereza, in a mix of laughter and exasperation, maneuvered to keep her sparkly find out of the Niffler's mischievous grasp.

Talbott, an unexpected spectator to this spectacle, couldn't help but find the chaos caused by the Niffler funny. Talbott never imagined he'd be charmed by such a scene, finding the mix of cuteness and humor hilarious. Even now, the detailed recollection brought a smile to his face.

But it was Cereza's determination that seized him most deeply. Her relentless drive to help, fix, and tackle the seemingly impossible fueled an unspoken admiration within Talbott. Her ability to turn challenges into possibilities left him in awe, finding both captivation and solace in her strength and resilience.

Yet, fear crept into his thoughts as he mulled it over. The idea of laying bare his emotions, risking their friendship, scared him to his core. The delicate balance between friendship and something more weighed heavily on his heart. Talbott's mind became a battleground, torn between a yearning for connection and the dread of losing someone dear.

Within the quiet confines of the Ravenclaw dorm at Hogwarts, Talbott faced a pivotal choice. Would he muster the courage to acknowledge the emotions swirling within, or would he opt for the safety of silence, protecting their friendship? The room held its breath as the weight of his decision hung in the air, an unspoken tension settling within the Ravenclaw dorm. However the day wasn't over yet and Talbott had a surprise waiting for him.

—----

Strolling through the castle, Penny pondered how to create the perfect setup for her friend Talbott to confess to his crush. Ideas swirled in her mind, but the risk of things going south lingered in every scenario.

"Okay, Penny, how can I make this work?" she mused, determined to play matchmaker for her dear friend and another close companion who happens to be her housemate.

"Penny!" Speaking of the devil, Cereza dashed over, a worried expression etched on her face. "Have you seen him?"

It dawned on Penny that Cereza was also on the hunt for Talbott. Suddenly, a mischievous glint in Penny's blue eyes met Cereza's innocent golden gaze, and an idea sparked.

—----

Talbott, succumbing to hunger's insistent tug, decided to brave the Great Hall despite the persistent gossip. The clatter and chatter within, however, drove him away, and he opted for a quieter place for him to eat away from the gossip.

Securing a plate from the Ravenclaw table, he embarked on through the castle's labyrinth, eventually finding himself perched on a secluded staircase, hidden away from the whispers echoing in the corridors.

Lost in his thoughts, Talbott failed to detect the soft footsteps approaching until a familiar voice disrupted his solitude.

"Tal?" The gentle call startled him mid-bite, making him almost choke, and he recognized that one only person called him by this affectionate nickname– Cereza.

Turning his head towards the voice, his eyes widened as Cereza stood at the top of the staircase, her usual Hogwarts uniform replaced by a cozy ensemble: a red sweater from Bill, a white shirt underneath, and a black skirt. The golden hues of her eyes met his startled orange-red gaze as he put his plate aside.

"Cereza?"

"There you are! I was looking for you." Her voice, laced with concern, accompanied her descent to sit beside him. Proximity played its part, and Talbott's face flushed, caught off guard.

"W-What brings you here?" he stuttered, attempting to regain composure.

"Penny told me everything!" The revelation struck like a lightning bolt, sinking Talbott's heart as he felt his body freeze and his stomach act weird.

She did what?

The revelation hung in the air, tension intertwining with the quiet corners of the staircase. Talbott's voice, tinged with a mix of anger and embarrassment, broke through the silence. "She did what?!" The sting of betrayal etched into his words, as he trusted Penny to not tell anyone. “I can't believe she—"

Before he could continue, Cereza's arms enveloped him, pulling him into a hug. Though not a fan of hugs, especially in this awkward situation, Talbott hesitated before slowly reciprocating, feeling his face burn and turn red. The hug, despite its unexpectedness, offered an odd comfort, leaving Talbott uncertain about how to respond as his heart raced.

"I... I didn't want you to find out this way. I wanted to tell you myself," he muttered, his embarrassment palpable.

"It's okay, I'm not mad or anything like that," she consoled him, snuggling closer with her chin on his shoulder. "It's not like this ruined our friendship or anything."

Relief washed over Talbott, but uncertainty lingered. Did her acceptance mean reciprocation, or was it merely understanding?

"How... exactly do you feel about this?" he asked, a mix of excitement and nervousness evident in his voice as he awaited her response.

Cereza took a moment before answering, "What do you mean? Why should my feelings matter about this?"

Confusion knitted their expressions as Talbott withdrew from the hug, staring at Cereza with a puzzled look mirrored in her eyes.

"What exactly did Penny tell you?" The Ravenclaw inquired.

"Uh... that you had feelings for someone, but they rejected you," she answered. "And she wanted me to comfort you because she said you wouldn't open up to her, that's why I hugged you because you know I know it must be hard to deal with these feelings."

Talbott blinked a few times, a surge of realization flooded Talbott. The embarrassment hit him like a wave. Almost confessing his feelings without realizing Cereza didn't know about it and fell into Penny’s lies. He took a deep breath, covering his face in his hands, a mix of frustration and embarrassment washing over him.

"H-Hey! It's okay; no need to feel embarrassed!" she comforted him, attempting to ease the awkwardness. "It was that person's loss anyway!"

Talbott's eyes peeked through his fingers as he still hid his face.

"I mean, you act very serious and sometimes a little cold, and when I first met you, I thought you were a little scary," Cereza nervously giggled, recalling the initial apprehension due to fake rumors and his cold nature. "But... as I got to know you, I saw how smart, nice, and talented you can be. You are an amazing person with a good heart and can be funny at times."

Talbott could feel his heart get warm as Cereza's words hit him, did she really think that about him?

"And besides you are handsome in your way as well." Talbott was caught off guard as Cereza, without much thought, complimented him, calling him handsome in his own way. He felt a flutter of butterflies in his stomach, wondering if such compliments were normal between friends.

"She...thinks I'm handsome...?" he mused to himself.

Before he could process the compliment fully, Cereza, with a kind smile, handed him a pink envelope, its seal adorned with a red heart seal. Talbott took notice of it earlier but hadn't given it much thought until now.

Snapping out of his contemplation, he accepted the envelope as Cereza cheered, "Happy Valentine's day!" Her smile was infectious, leaving Talbott in awe. "I handmade this myself and wrote something for you."

"Thank you," he replied, still captivated by her, holding the letter in his hands. "But...I have nothing for you."

"Don't worry about it. I'm used to not getting something for Valentine's day," she awkwardly giggled, earning a puzzled look from Talbott.

“Really? I thought you had a lot of admirers,” he questioned.

“I mean, only if their letters get eaten by the owls,” Cereza joked, her laughter filling the air. “But either way, I don't really care. Unlike some, I don’t crave attention, and I don’t have a crush on anyone, so it's not like I'm waiting for a Valentine's day gift from anyone, really.”

This revelation surprised Talbott, but it also sparked a glimmer of hope. Maybe she didn't have feelings for him yet, but her lack of interest in others left room for possibilities.

“I'm just surprised that you didn't get anything. I mean, look at you,” Talbott blurted out his thoughts without much consideration.

Cereza, curious and a bit surprised, asked, “What do you mean?”

Caught in his own statement, Talbott mumbled, feeling the heat rise in his cheeks. With a deep breath, he decided to lay his thoughts bare.

His words danced uncertainly through the air, a hesitant escaping his lips. "I mean, you're... you know," he stumbled, gaze shyly drifting away. "Beautiful, kind, gentle—like one of the most remarkable person I've ever known, you truly are a someone with a golden heart. You're incredible, courageous and talented and it baffles me that others haven't seen that.”

As he looked back at her, he was taken aback by her reaction. Cereza appeared surprised, eyes sparkling with awe, her mouth forming a small "o," and her cheeks blushing a shade of red.

“Y-You…r-really think that about me?” she stammered, looking at Talbott in disbelief.

“Yes,” he replied, surprised at his own boldness.

Cereza, unsure of how to respond, nervously tapped her foot, scratching the back of her head. “T-Thank you,” she mumbled shyly, adjusting her round glasses and looking down.

Was she shy? Talbott wondered, questioning the effect his words had on her.

—----

Talbott found solace in the owlery, the quiet refuge where his thoughts could echo undisturbed. Holding the delicate envelope, he replayed the events from hours ago, a smile dancing on his lips—a smile that only someone who has been in loce would understand.

"Did my plan work?” The tranquility shattered as Penny's voice punctured his musings. He turned to find her, a mischievous smirk adorning her face.

"Not as you envisioned," Talbott replied, a roll of his eyes punctuating his words. "Your scheme could've jeopardized my friendship with Cereza."

"I just wanted to help," Penny defended, her tone lingering on a hopeful note. "But you don't look sad or angry, so does that mean..."

"What? Can't I be in a good mood?" Talbott retorted, a hint of sass coloring his voice.

"You're never in a good mood. That's why it's odd," Penny teased, her words dripping with playful mockery.

"Whatever you say, it's not ruining my mood," he hummed with subtle defiance.

Penny's gaze fixated on his hand, noticing the open envelope and the letter within. Curiosity ignited her blue eyes. "Oh, someone got a letter! It's from Cereza, isn't it? She said she was working on something for you after I told her your tragic fake story."

Talbott rolled his eyes once more, still not believing that his friend orchestrated narrative behind his back designed to bring him closer to Cereza.

"Can I see it?" Penny's excitement and curiosity bubbled over.

He clutched the letter protectively, an angry pout decorating his face. "No."

"Come on! It's all thanks to me that this happened," Penny pleaded, with a pout on lips which didn't affect Talbott.

"I don't care, Penny. You are not seeing it!" Talbott continued to deny, frustration audible in his groan.

Penny lunged, attempting to snatch the letter, but he resisted, pushing her away.

"Let me see it!"

"NO!"

—----

In the bustling Great Hall, Cereza sat amidst the lively ambiance, sharing a meal with her brother and the Khanna twins. Yet, her thoughts lingered in the echo of a conversation that unfolded hours ago, casting a spell of distraction. A hand cradling her chin, she stared at her untouched plate, lost in contemplation.

“Cereza?” Rowan's voice cut through the haze, a gentle but insistent call.

Her gaze shifted to the Gryffindor opposite her, Michael by her side. Confusion etched on their faces mirrored her own.

“What?” Cereza responded, her confusion evident. Glancing at Rowen, the Hufflepuff beside her, she noticed he had a concerned look.

“We called you a few times, and you didn't answer,” Rowan explained, her voice tempered by worry. “And you haven't touched your food since we got here. Is everything alright? Did something happen?”

“I-I'm fine, really. I'm just...thinking,” Cereza murmured, her fork absentmindedly tracing patterns on her untouched meal.

“Bullshit!” Michael growled. “You’ve been like this since you talked to Winger. What did he say to you?”

Cereza's eyes widened, cheeks ablaze with a sudden revelation. “How did you know I talked to Tal?”

“I was looking for you earlier, and Penny told me she sent you to talk to Talbott because of his little problem,” Michael explained, his protective tone surfacing. “If he said anything bad to you, I swear—”

Cereza's hands slammed onto the table, her figure rising in an assertive stance. “Stop always assuming the worst of him! Talbott didn't do anything wrong; he's an amazing guy!” Her voice resonated through the Great Hall, drawing glances from nearby students, including her surprised brother.

Shyly retaking her seat, embarrassment colored her features. “Sorry…”

Michael wore a perplexed expression, unused to this side of Cereza. Meanwhile, the Khanna twins, Rowan and Rowen, exchanged knowing glances, sensing that whatever has happend between Cereza and Talbott that day awakened something and whaterver it was, it was starting to blossom.