#childlike spirit and heart

[shaibtheherbanlegend777]

I made it to 27 I'm grateful for the years, lessons and growth and more miracles, more fun times and amazing things to come

[loveemagicpeace]

🐚Creativity and Focus💿

🌙5th house & 12th house are considered houses of creativity. Only for the 5th house, it shows itself through hobbies, visibility, activity, impulsiveness, fun, joy, passion, and the 12th house through the deeper art with which we show our emotions and our imagination.

🦋Pluto in the 5th might confer the gift of writing a good detective novel; being creative in other ways, can be an all-consuming and transformative experience, giving rise to a deep and unassailable power within yourself. 🌱Uranus here might suggest that creative ideas fall like heavenly sparks, trying to find a place to land and take root. You have potential for genuine creative originality, although your challenge might be to allow it to land and take form, because each idea is rapidly superseded by the next. You can create something very unique and different. These people usually have very interesting and unique talents.

🪐Saturn in 5th house-maybe you find creativity through the lessons of life (everything you've learned). Real creativity can come later in life and so can the inspiration you find. Saturn in the 5th house brings a strong desire for fame, recognition, and success but may result in delays and disappointments in love life and artistic creations. Your chosen pastime might be chess or something equally strategic. Creative work can become a honed skill, from event planning to sculpture or pottery.

🧜🏼‍♀️💫Neptune in 5th house- your creativity shows through your imagination, which is limitless. Many times people do not understand the creativity and hobbies that these people have - because it can be something completely different, mystical. They have a vivid imagination and often surprise others with it. You find a lot of your inspiration or creativity by the sea or places that are more emotional. Music or poetry might appeal to you, and you may find it easy to lose yourself in artistic activities. These can bring a sense of emotional and spiritual fulfilment.

❤️‍🔥Jupiter in 5th house- traveling is your passion and you can also do something that involves traveling. You can find hobbies everywhere. These people are many times famous abroad. You might opt to have a large family or just enjoy indulging in holidays and recreation. Taking time out to play can be rejuvenating.

⚡️Mars in 5th house-For you, sexual potency might well be a form of self-expression. Games are competitive and having children could bring your fighting spirit to life. You can show your creativity through sports, especially more dangerous sports or sports that require a lot of energy. You like things that give you an adrenaline rush.

🩷Venus in 5th house-Romance needs to be at the heart of a relationship for you, a sense that your worth and attractiveness are admired. Creative skills might involve design or fashion. You can also show creativity through the love or feelings you have for someone.

🎄Mercury in 5th house- Your creative impulse might involve words and communication - inventive writing or storytelling. You seek praise for this, since this is a side of you that can shine. You can have many mental abilities. People may see you as a person who can solve a lot or a person who can compete well in words.

🌙Moon in 5th house- Attuned to the playful world of children, you have an easy creativity and fun-loving side. You might also want your personal needs to be placed centre stage. You feed your mind through different learnings and attaining knowledge. You are likely to have a strong desire for creative self-expression.

☀️Sun in 5th house- You can be a natural performer or creative artist, happy to take a place in the spotlight or put your heart into your creative work. You seek attention and praise. You need to give yourself permission to be who you really are. You are gifted with the ability to remind others about the importance of creativity and fun. You can have a very beautiful childlike energy.

🎞️Chiron in 5th house- Perhaps adoption or surrogate children are part of your experience. Any form of play can help to nurture the wounded child within, both in yourself and in others. It suggests that you are a creative and unique person but sharing your gifts with others is not always easy for you. You remind people how important it is to be you and express yourself.

🌟12th house energy. This is a place where you can conjure images and connect to non-ordinary worlds.

🥑Mercury here you might be interested in myths and fairy tales, or be attracted to symbolic languages (such as astrology!). You might be curious about the spiritual or intangible dimensions of life, including myths and symbols. Imaginative story telling allows your voice to be heard Or with Venus here, perhaps art or photography appeal to you, or losing yourself in a romantic novel (or writing one). The perfect lover probably does not exist - but hold the image in your head and you might then recognize it as a projection of your own beauty or gifts. Even Saturn enters into the spirit in this house - Saturn here might serve you well if you are a designer, a composer, or the manager of an art gallery, giving form and substance to imaginative conceptions. Remembering you are not responsible for the world's suffering can help you to focus your dedication around truly worthy causes. You have a gift for bringing order to chaos.

🩵Mars in 12th house- On your own you might feel as though your efforts do not hit home - yet you can fight effectively and courageously on behalf of those who are weaker or less fortunate. You find your creativity through passion, energy, actions - you can have many hobbies and you are very good at many things. You have many hidden talents. You can also express art through anger. When you're angry and you doing things you do things better. Mars here suggests that you can solve problems in a unique and creative way. You can use your planet here for making art, writing, or in any creative way. The 12th house is the house of fantasies, illusions, music, acting―with placements here, you can easily tap into the ocean of the unconscious and turn into something unique and beautiful.

🌛Moon in 12th house- Care work might appeal. Focusing your compassionate efforts in this way can be more fruitful than trying to care for the whole world. You find yourself emotionally connected to people and understand their emotions on a subconscious level.

🌞Sun in 12th house- many times you show your art through things that others cannot see. You want to show what people can't see.To go into the unknown and unconscious. With your artistic expression, you often inspire other people and people can find you as someone who helped them a lot through (music, writing, dance...) whatever you do, you do it to inspire others. You can talk a lot about mental health or how to find the light. Your identity and purpose can emerge from a life dedicated to service. You may shine as a performer or actor, easily shifting into character.

🔥Jupiter in 12th house- Bliss might be the perfect trip abroad or time spent celebrating in jovial company. For as much as you give generously, you might also feel blessings magically arrive. You can bring happiness to the people around you. You can do a lot of things that are fun, optimistic and inspire a lot of people with your work.

🫧Neptune in 12th house- Perhaps you give everything to the cause, leaving nothing for yourself - but you can be a beacon of compassion in a troubled world. These people express their art through the most spititually imaginative things. They have their own imagination. They live in their own fantasy world and many people find their work very interesting.

🪁Uranus in 12th house- Perhaps you hide your unconventionality so as to fit in - reclaiming this can heip set you free. Your radar for collective trends can put you ahead of your time. You often have a unique and unconventional personality. People with this placement usually try to avoid being in the spotlight.

🏹Pluto in 12th house- If you do not accept your own power (or feelings of powerlessness) you can undermine your efforts. You have the capacity to probe the psychology of the collective mind. You can leave a mark with your work. Many powerful people hold this position. ( Steve Jobs, Marilyn Monroe, Kurt Cobain, Jennifer Lopez, Katy Perry, Lana Del Rey, Tom Hanks..)

🛼Chiron in 12th house- This suggests a desire to heal the collective and show compassion to all. Perhaps you have had to conceal your own suffering, making you sensitive to others' hidden pain. You have the potential to become a remarkable psychologist for others. By overcoming your fear of self-exploration, you can understand the mechanisms of healing and utilize them to heal others with subconscious wounds.

✨Ig-bekylibra✨

🎸For personal readings u can sign up here: https://snipfeed.co/bekylibra 🎸

-Rebekah🫧💿🦋

[funky-astrologer]

Your most nurturing qualities :

🤍Cancer Ascendant/1st house: your presence, your appearance & the way you carry yourself

🤍Cancer 2nd house: your voice, the food you make, the way you cultivate comfort with ease

🤍Cancer 3rd house: your soft spoken voice, your easy, gentle way of communicating

🤍Cancer 4th house: your compassion, your kind heart & calming nature

🤍Cancer 5th house: your style, your joy & childlike innocence

🤍Cancer 6th house: your generous & giving spirit, the peaceful environment you help to create

🤍Cancer 7th house: your graceful nature & ability to make others feel cared for

🤍Cancer 8th house: your intuition & insight, your ability to deepen bonds and generate trust

🤍Cancer 9th house: your free spirit, your ability to make anywhere feel like home

🤍Cancer 10th house: your willingness to help, your patience and devotion to improvement

🤍Cancer 11th house: your gentle spirit, your soulful way of inspiring others

🤍Cancer 12th house: your awareness of things hidden & the way you put others at ease

-S.

Thanks for reading 🌙🤍

[cupidddd-d]

heart eyes

aww, they're in love with you !

peter

"h-hey," peter's voice cracks as he tries to speak, clearing his throat as a blush creeps up his cheeks. "i-i mean, hey."

his hands fiddle with something underneath his robes, his freckles slowly disappearing as his flush grows darker.

"hi peter, what's up?" you offer him a polite smile as you try not to laugh at how adorable he is.

"s-so i noticed that um...y-you're really good at, um, ch-charms. c-could you maybe...tutor me? i-i mean, i-it's fine if y-you don't!" he stutters.

he clears his throat again as he stares down at the ground. preparing himself to be slapped. for what? he doesn't really know. maybe for even daring to talk to you, let alone asking you for anything. why would he deserve to hold even an ounce of your attention?

"sure, that's fine. i'm free anytime, so let me know when you want to meet in the library," you shrug simply, your eyes widening in shock as he shoves 3 boxes of chocolate frogs in your arms.

"okay, thanks, bye!" he rushes off before you can respond, practically running away from you.

"um...bye, i guess?"

james

"merlin-!" your neck almost collapses as james places his elbow on your skull, casually using you as an armrest and leaning his full weight on you.

"has anyone ever told you how short you are?" he ponders, letting out a quiet oomph when you shove him off.

"get off me, you...ogre!"

"sweetheart, i'm hurt. anyhow, have you heard of what happened to malfoy? i set his mattress on fire," he looks at you with a childlike grin, eager for your approval. "you said he was insulting you behind your back, didn't you?"

"oh, that's not...that's not really a prank. that's just, um...arson." you scratch the back of your neck awkwardly, your lips twisted into a weak grimace.

his smile dips slightly. "well, i didn't exactly consult the boys about it. was more of a personal project. for you. don't you like it?"

"um...it's the thought that counts, right?"

as dubious as your answer is, it causes james' spirits to lift once more, and he tackles you in a hug (which subsequently cuts off your air supply--who knew he'd have such a strong grip?).

"i knew you'd love it!"

sirius

"ahh, good evening, love. sitting at the fireplace all by your lonesome?" sirius says loudly as he plops down on the couch next to you, throwing an arm over your shoulder.

"not anymore," you gingerly pick up his hand as if it's radioactive, tossing it aside and leaving it dangling behind the couch--but most importantly, away from you. "what are you doing, black?"

"you're so cold to me," he sighs, raking a hand through his hair. "you didn't notice anything new about me?"

you shake your head cluelessly.

"nothing? really, love? shoes? haircut? rings? clothes? you don't notice anything?"

you shake your head again.

"i'm heartbroken! devastated! anguished! inconsolable, even! i did all this to fit your tastes, you know!" he complains. "can't i have a little kiss to heal my shattered soul?"

he puckers his lips, leaning in with a hopeful expression.

"yeah, maybe in your dreams, black." you snort as you get up from the couch, moving as far away from him as possible.

he bites his lip as he watches you leave, idly rubbing his jaw.

"oh trust me, i'm dreaming...hell, i'll do a lot more than dreaming..."

remus

"i couldn't stay for break, so i wanted to give you an early yule present, if that's okay?" remus rummages around in his bag and hands you a strange rectangle.

upon closer inspection, it seems to be a (poorly) wrapped gift, but it's the thought behind it that warms your heart and causes an involuntary smile to spread across your face.

yes, too much wrapping paper was used, and there's tape in unnecessary places, but remus made a gift for you. who cares that it looked like it had been constructed by a blind toddler?

"thank you, remus," you say sweetly, your voice dripping into his ears like warm honey. "can i open it?"

"o-of course, and if you don't like it, i also have a sweater in my dorm for you. i um, remember how you'd always compliment my sweaters, so i thought i might get us a matching pair." he offers you a shy smile that makes your heart melt.

"you're so sweet, rem," you say softly. you delicately tear the wrapping paper, not wanting to ruin his hard work.

"it's my favorite book. i thought you might like it, and i annotated it. i highlighted the lines that made me think of you, and i also wrote little comments in the margins," he explains quietly, picking at his cuticles. "but now that i'm saying it out loud, it seems stupid..."

"it's not stupid, rem! i love it! it's really sweet and thoughtful! thank you," you say earnestly. "i'm really excited to read it over break. i mean it,"

"you're welcome, dove,"

[wileys-russo]

off limits (6) II a.putellas x león!reader

part one part two part three part four part five

off limits (6) II a.putellas x león!reader

"ale where are we going?" you laughed, leaning back into your seat more as your girlfriend sped down the highway. "stop asking me princesa, it is a surprise!" was all you got in return alongside a toothy grin as barcelona raced past her window in a blur.

you adored when alexia was in moods like this; so jovial and free spirited, lowering her stern serious facade and allowing a more bubbly and playful one to shine through.

as a friend, team mate, role model, footballer, sister, captain, lover she had many sides to her and you'd argue till you were blue in the face that some of those she reserved only for when it was the two of you, such as the childlike joy which currently oozed from her.

you'd only been back from training long enough to shower and change before she'd cornered you in her living room, grabbing your hand, twirling you and kissing her way softly up your arm, informing the two of you were to now go for a drive together.

you hadn't questioned it, well you hardly had time to before the taller girl had thrown you over her shoulder and smacked your ass, stating you needed warmer clothes as she tossed you down on her bed.

she'd shut up your questions then by throwing herself on top of you with a grin and peppering your face with kisses, biting your cheek playfully and murmuring in catalan that all would be revealed soon enough.

your heart soared to see her so carefree and happy that afternoon, the two of you bundling up a little more and leaving her apartment hand in hand. unable to show much affection all day you were both admittedly touch starved, making sure at all times that at least a centimeter of your skin pressed against the others.

alexia going as far as to challenge you to a race once you entered the carpark the two of you sprinted off laughing like children as you beat her there, rewarded by her pressing you against the vehicle and kissing you so hard it had stole the air from your lungs.

now as the two of you drove away to an unknown final destination you looked at her with a soft smile and hopelessly lovesick gaze.

her ever alluring and warm hazel orbs stayed hidden behind her most favorite pair of sunglasses. you once teased she liked them more than you when she'd tackled your sister to the ground to get them back as mapi stole them off her head after training one afternoon.

no one but the two of you knowing the truth behind your relationship at that stage you'd left separately, quickly meeting up at your apartment where you'd taken your turn to steal her glasses. the taller girl chasing you around and around till she'd finally caught and taken you down to the floor as well, your combined laughters filling the cosy atmosphere of her apartment.

grinning up at her you'd simply slipped the sunglasses on and pulled her down into a passionate kiss, pretending not to notice how eager she still was to take them off your eyes and hide them away in her pocket, not breaking the kiss for even a second as she did.

now back to your pining stare toward her in the drivers seat her pink hair fell down her shoulders in gentle waves, gradually fading back to blonde with each wash much to your insistent bothering that she should dye it pink again, but you knew you were fighting a losing battle.

the top of her head was tucked away beneath a black beanie, loose strands of hair whipping around in the wind from where her window was wound down. the late afternoon sun was glorious and bathed her in its golden glow, highlighting her tanned sun kissed skin and sharp jawline which as far as you were concerned could have been carved by the gods themselves.

her plump pink lips stayed curled into a cheeky grin, white pearly teeth flashing out at you as one hand stayed on your thigh and the other gripped the steering wheel.

at alexia's insistence you had on matching nike hoodies, hers a pale pink and yours a mint green, the midfielder ignoring your teasings about how cute it was that she wanted you two to match, shutting you up with a loving kiss.

"take a picture, it will last longer than staring at me bebita." the older girl smirked, her laughter bouncing around the car before being snatched away in the wind as you grabbed your phone and did exactly that.

"i am not staring, i am admiring my beautiful girlfriend." you retorted happily seeing a slight blush creep up her neck at your words, her eyes darting off the road for just a fleeting second to look at you, shining with a type of tender adoration she'd not felt warm her heart before you had turned her world upside down.

"okay amor put this on por favor, but backwards so you cannot see anything." alexia reached down beside her and handed you a bright pink balaclava. "why do you have this?" you'd laughed so much your stomach hurt, clutching at your aching abdomen muscles.

"it is albas! just put it on before we get there, i told you it was a surprise and you are going to ruin it!" alexia whined with a playful grumpy pout. you rolled your eyes but did as she asked, your girlfriend waving her free hand in front of your face a few times to check you really couldn't see.

"if you are taking me somewhere to murder me i must warn you that i have not written you into my will yet so you will get nothing." you'd smirked beneath the soft fabric of the balaclava hearing a raspy chuckle beside you.

"if i was going to murder you cariño it would not be for your money, i have more than enough of my own." alexia shook her head in amusement as you felt her take a few turns, the road a little bumpier now.

"okay la reina sorry i forgot you could just sell one of your millions of trophies. how much is a ballon d'or worth on the black market? if i make it out of this alive maybe i will just rob you. i have a balaclava now they will never know it was me." you mocked her, squirming as she pinched your leg for the teasing.

"are we nearly there?" you groaned, starting to feel a little ill as the car turned and bumped and you stayed in the dark. "si niña bonita, soon." her fingers interlocked with yours, bringing the back of your hand up to her mouth and kissing it sweetly, repeating the tender gesture over and over until finally you heard gravel crunching and cracking under the tyres and felt the car still, engine cutting off.

she let go of your hand as her door opened and closed, still unable to see you jumped as yours suddenly opened next, your girlfriend reaching over to unbuckle you. "can i take this off now?" you asked, alexia grabbing your hand before you could.

"almost." she helped you up and out of your seat, arms locked around your torso and helping you to walk, steadying you as you tripped a few times, her lips kissing your neck apologetically.

"joder." you hissed quietly with a wince as suddenly she yanked off the balaclava and sunlight pierced your eyes. "sorry." she mumbled with another kiss to your cheek this time, still wrapped tightly around you as her chin came to rest on your shoulder.

"oh alexia." you smiled in surprise as your vision adjusted, the two of you stood at the lookout of turó de la rovira, a 360 degree view of barcelona greeting your eyes.

golden hour almost over and the sun starting to set the sky had turned a soft coral, streaks of bright orange and yellow dashed across it like god was painting the sky just for the two of you.

"do you like it?" your girlfriend mumbled, hugging you even tighter as you nodded. "i love it, its beautiful. i have not been here since i was little." your smile was nostalgic and soft, alexia melting at the look of awe and wonder on your face.

"buena hermosa." alexia sighed happily, your hands finding hers and intertwining, her arms still tightly encasing you as the two of you watched the sunset together in a peaceful and comfortable silence.

in that moment you were certain that you'd never felt more loved by someone. never more appreciated and tenderly adored than by the tall catalan hugging you tightly and lazily kissing your jaw, whispering soft confessions of just how much she adored you over and over in your ear.

never in that moment did you once think things between the two of you would end up how they had right here right now.

"my contract is up this year with barca ale, and i will not be renewing it."

sat across from her in the physio room you watched your ex lovers heart physically break as you delivered the final blow, unveiling a secret which had haunted you for longer than you dared to dwell on.

"what do you mean you are not renewing it? I-" alexia struggled to get out her words as you looked on, eyes swirling with a storm of guilt, relief, pity and empathy. "barca is your home. you cannot go somewhere else!" she forced out, fists balled by her sides.

"that is why i am here so late, i just had my final meeting with jonatan about it. the decision is made alexia, there is no going back now." your voice was firm though not unkind, despite what was going on between the two of you this news was not something you would ever use as a means to make her feel guilty.

"no no no por favor amor por favor." within a second she had wedged her body back between your legs, clasping your face in her hands, tears welling up in her eyes.

"it is done, the lawyers were there and everything." your voice was barely above a whisper as you squeezed your eyes tightly shut, unable to bring yourself to look into her broken ones any longer. your heart felt like someone was closing it in a tight fist as you heard her try to stifle back her tears.

"oh ale." you sighed, wrapping your arms around her neck as she moved to push her face into your shoulder, her hands tightly gripping your hips as if she could hold you to stay there forever.

you held her for as long as she needed, there was more you wanted to explain but you knew she needed time to process what you'd already said.

you weren't even sure if you'd processed it yourself. there was still six more weeks of active games in between breaks, and you would still be on the team for each one of those.

but the fact that after that this would no longer be your home, no more would you don the infamous red and blue colours of your team, surrounded by girls who you looked at like family, was a terrifying prospect you refused to think about just yet.

"sorry." alexia mumbled, pulling herself away and wiping her nose, the two of you letting go as she moved to sit back on the bench opposite you.

"where will you go?" she questioned quietly after she'd taken a moment to compose herself, embarrassment now joining the boiling pot of emotions bubbling up inside her. "that is the other thing." you exhaled deeply, shifting uncomfortably at the rest of your news as alexia frowned curiously.

"i won't." you started simply, fiddling with your hands in your lap. "i do not understand." alexia's frown deepened as you sighed again, forcing yourself to look away from the floor and back into her eyes.

"i am not moving to any other team ale, after this season i am retiring from football all together."

"que? why?" was all the older girl could manage to spit out, her head a spinning mess of questions and thoughts and feelings, all far too dizzying for her to make sense of any of it.

"because of me?" she followed up quietly, daring to allow her eyes to look at you for a moment before they moved to look at the wall beside your head. "not completely, i promise there is much more to it than that." you answered honestly.

"but what happened with us is a part of it." alexia stated more than questioned as you nodded, now the one to push yourself off the bench, moving to stand in front of her and gently grabbing her hands as she flinched momentarily in surprise.

"i love barcelona more than life. i love living here, i love that my friends and family are all here, i love how it has been playing football and a name for myself here, and I will always be a culer till the day I die-" you started softly, squeezing her hands to get the girl to look at you.

"-which is why i could never play for another team. but i would be lying if i said just because i love living here doesn’t mean it feels like home here anymore alexia, because you were a big part of that feeling and now you are gone from it." you forced out, hating the way her face fell at your words.

"i am not gone, i am right here!" alexia whispered desperately. "then why does it feel like you are so far away?" you smiled sadly, knowing your words would hurt her but needing her to hear them none the less.

"a part of me will always love you alexia. but that same part aches that as much as I love you, you are not mine to love anymore." you paused to take a shaky breath, hands still tightly holding onto hers.

"like i said i am so tired. i am so tired of fighting with you, arguing with my sister, feeling angry all the time is exhausting. and so is being unsure how to fix and mend relationships which mean so much to me, while still trying to get over how much it hurt for them to break in the first place." you poured your heart out honestly.

"football has always meant a lot to me but i need more, i crave something out of life that football can no longer give me. and i promise i was thinking about that before anything happened with us." you spoke sincerely, again not wanting her to blame herself for a decision that held a lot more meaning to you than you were currently able to explain.

"i hope that with some time and some distance to grow maybe we can be friends again one day ale, I know you will always be in my sisters life as her best friend and she will need you when i leave." you smiled, wiping away a stray tear which threatened to fall.

"you have not told her?" alexia asked, struggling to process what you were saying, struggling to breath as with each word you spoke the room seemed to feel smaller and smaller.

"no, not yet. and i am trusting you one last time not to tell her about this, not to tell anyone. i will tell them when i am ready and in my own way." you requested, again squeezing her hands gently in yours as she nodded.

"i cannot change your mind, can i?" she returned it with an equally sad smile of her own. "no, nobody can." you confirmed, letting go of her and taking a step back.

"but if barcelona is not your home anymore, then where do you plan to go?"

~

"hola." mapi looked up in surprise as you stood in front of her, already changed after training with your bag slung over your shoulder ready to go.

"hola hermana." your sister greeted slowly, taken aback by the casual nature of your approach, not having properly spoken to her for well over a week now.

"would you and ingrid want to come over for dinner?" you asked with a raised eyebrow, the norweigen sat a few lockers away glancing over hearing her voice, tapping aitana's leg signalling she was no longer listening as the girl spoke with her.

"tonight?" mapi asked, eyes wide in shock as your own rolled. "no next week. si maria, tonight." you replied much more curtly, tapping your foot impatiently when you didn't receive an answer.

"we will be there." ingrid answered you with a soft smile when her girlfriend didn't. "buena, come over whenever." you sent her a smile and shrugged then with that you were gone.

"estás bien mi amor?" ingrid moved to sit beside her girlfriend who seemed lost in her thoughts, mapi nodding that she was okay and bending down to continue lacing up her shoes as aitana handed ingrid her bag with a smile, wishing them both goodbye.

"see i told you, you just had to wait and to let her come to you."

~

dinner had been going as good as it could have been so far.

things were a little awkward and frosty at first, but with ingrid acting as a buffer you managed to settle into a much more comfortable conversation style.

you'd dished up dinner, grateful to have cooking it as a distraction as you encouraged your guests to do majority of the talking. the two planned to go to norway soon during international break as she had national team commitments.

they were going to see ingrids family and take a few days to themselves in between games finishing and needing to return to barca, and spent time telling you all about what they had planned to do and see there in the short while.

ingrid had of course extended the invitation for you to join them, your sister also eager for you to come. you'd met ingrids family before so you knew it would not be an issue, however you had already committed to malta and wouldn't put it past the younger putellas to track you down in another country to drag you there with her, having been texting you repeatedly about it.

so you waved off the invitation, grateful for it but making a series of jokes about not wanting to third wheel as you ate. though eventually you could no longer stomach the polite conversation and you knew you needed to come clean, the longer you avoided it the more nervous you'd become.

“ingrid, maria. I need to tell you something.” you blurted out much more abruptly and awkwardly than you'd intended. the entire plan you'd spent the afternoon creating all gone out the window, as had your prepared speech.

her smile dropped at the use of her full name, attention now entirely yours to command as you glanced at ingrid beside her who nodded to you to continue, seemingly just as concerned.

“i’m not renewing my contract with barca.” your voice was barely above a whisper but your words fell on your sisters ears like an anchor. you flinched as her cutlery fell to her plate with a loud clatter and she shot to her feet.

“what the hell do you mean you’re not-“ she started with a scowl leaning across the table, ingrid firmly squeezing her leg and giving her a pointed look, nodding to where you sat across from them staring down at the floor, anxiously playing with your fingers as you awaited her oncoming wave of rage.

swallowing the bitter anger and frustration which was rapidly bubbling to the surface knowing that was not what you needed right now, mapi took a deep breath and slowly sat back down.

“hey, look at me.” the girl ordered as you nervously glanced up to meet her eyes which to your shock were glazed over with worry. “what do you need from me hermana?” she asked softly, her reaction catching you a little off guard.

“not to hate me.” was all you managed to breathe out as you crumbled and the tears you’d been fighting off began to well up in your eyes.

your sister quickly moved around the table to sit by your side as you collapsed into her awaiting arms, tears wetting her collarbone as she cradled your head tightly.

“no I could never ever hate you niñita, never. I promise.” the older girl assured softly, murmuring it over and over as she held you tightly as you tried to calm yourself.

not wanting to overstep ingrid quickly gathered your empty plates, moving to the kitchen to wash them up and giving the two of you a moment of privacy.

you pulled away from her and wiped your eyes with your shirt, a little embarrassed at your emotions as ingrid returned, handing you a few tissues. "come, we need to talk about this." your sister encouraged, nodding for you to all move to the sofa.

"so you are leaving barca." she sighed a little as you nodded after you'd all settled in. "to where?" she asked the same questions alexia had. "not another team." you started, the confused faces staring back at you also mirroring that of your ex lovers.

so with a shaky inhale, you repeated the same words you had to her.

"retiring?" with that your sister could hold her tongue no more, once again shooting up to her feet.

"are you injured?" "no." "do you still like football?" "yes." "have you been told you need to stop playing? forced into this by someone?" "no."

"mierda i have just named all the possible reasons for retiring!" the tattooed spaniard snapped, ignoring ingrid who tried to reason with her.

"not mine." you replied calmly, the two words catching your sister off guard as she faltered for a second and fell quiet, slowly taking her seat again and wordlessly waving for you to speak as ingrid moved closer in an attempt to comfort her.

"i am not happy anymore." you started simply, moving to cross your legs underneath you and turning your body a little more to look at the couple sat a few feet away whose faces softened at your words.

"si, i like football. no, i am not injured or being told i cannot play anymore. but i no longer love football, i do not have ambitions to win awards or trophies or tournaments. i cannot represent my country anymore, i cannot continue to pretend like i feel the same when everyone speaks about these things." you began to explain, feeling lighter with each word you got off your chest.

"i have always done what you have. you played football in the backyard, i played football in the backyard. you played for the junior national teams, i played for the junior national teams. you played for barca, i played for barca. you stood up for the way we were being treated, and i stood beside you." you recounted, the look on your sisters face not easy to decipher what she was thinking, though she remained quiet and allowed you to continue.

"but now, now i need to figure out what i want and what i need and what i love. barcelona does not feel like home anymore and it will always be so special to be but i need more." you sighed, rubbing your face with your hands and taking a pause to reset.

"i need to feel like i am giving more, doing more, like whatever i leave behind is worth something. i just want more from life." you sighed, struggling with your words as to not undermine anything or anyone.

"this has been the hardest decision i have ever made. all i know is football, all i am associated with is football, all i know i am good at is football and that is no longer good enough for me anymore." your voice broke slightly and you wavered, taking a deep breath.

"it hurts more than i can explain and i am terrified but i am also just so tired. i am tired of fighting with alexia, i am tired of feeling like i need to walk on eggshells around the two of you. i am tired of worrying about injuries or playing well or not playing well. so si, i will play the rest of of this season with barca and then i will retire, everything was made official today." you rambled on, stopping yourself before you could spiral any further and falling silent.

the couple shared a few looks as if speaking without words which made your stomach knot up again with nerves, anxious for what they would both have to say about it as they gave one another a small nod and turned back to you.

"okay." your sister started softly, a small frown creasing into your eyebrows. "you're not mad?" you asked, still apprehensive for her reaction. "no hermanita, how could i be mad at the cost of your happiness? i am disappointed that the fierce barca legacy of the león sisters is no more, but that is only on the pitch." she started with a smile.

"i am not mad but i am worried about you, why did you not come and speak to me about it? about any of this?" she asked, her hurt disguised in her voice but not in the glint of her eyes.

"actually after everything i can see why, and that is my fault." mapi quickly corrected, forcing a pained smile.

"i am so sorry for not being a better sister or making you feel like you could come to me about this and about your relationship with ale. i have blown up a big part of your life and i will never stand in the way of you trying to start a new one again." your sister promised sincerely as you nodded.

"if not barcelona anymore, where will you go?" ingrid finally spoke, sending you a kind smile as she grabbed her girlfriends hand. "i am going to volunteer with the united nations. they have a six month program that sends you around the world wherever aid or help is needed." you answered, both older girls across from you with wide eyes at your words.

"wow." mapi breathed out. "how did you-"

"alba helped me. she has a friend who heads the recruitment, got me in touch and put in a good word. i actually only heard back yesterday with an offer for a spot." you responded somewhat shyly, still trying to wrap your head around the opportunity.

you didn't have time to say another word, two bodies launching at you and wrapping you tightly in a hug as your sister kissed your cheek repeatedly mumbling about how proud she was of you.

"bueno bueno! thank you for the support but get off." you laughed, unable to even begin to describe the sense of relief at the weight which was melting off your shoulders finally having come clean, and it having gone a lot better than you worried.

"have you told mami? or the team? or your-" "si, mami knows. alba knows. alexia knows. the barca staff know. but i am not ready to tell the team just yet, por favor." you pleaded, both girls assuring they would not tell.

"so you spoke with alexia then?" ingrid asked cautiously, unsure if this was something you'd wish to speak about. "yes. we had an....honest conversation." you sighed, settling back into the sofa.

"the two of you..." mapi trailed off now, also with an air of caution not wanting to overstep. "no. i do not know what could be done to fix things now, the damage is done and it is there and it still hurts. but with some time apart, maybe we could become friends again." you forced a smile, trying to remain optimistic despite the dull thumping ache in your chest any time you thought about the blonde.

"okay hermana. are you still going to go to malta? pina mentioned alba convinced you to go, and we know alexia is also still going." your sister asked with a raised eyebrow, the two of them not going as norway had two games to play during the break which mapi planned to go and support ingrid at.

"yes, we still have the rest of the season to go and i do not want to have to keep arguing and avoiding her. i think after our talk we have a sort of, understanding." you winced slightly, knowing no matter if you wanted to go on the trip or not alba would be forcing you.

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

part seven

i would like to lovingly remind you all before you implode that this is not yet the endddd, we still have at least one, maybe two, chapters left to go

[bblovetarot]

{𖨆♡ 𖨆} Who will be your next partner?

ʚ ═══･୨ꕤ୧･═══ ɞ Pick a Pile ʚ ═══･୨ꕤ୧･═══ ɞ 

. ༄ . paid readings . ༄.

。°⚠︎°。follow your intuition when choosing a pile. if you're drawn to more than one pile, that's okay! you may have messages in more than one.

。°⚠︎°。tarot readings are not 100% accurate, and do not dictate your future. please keep in mind that you have free will. these readings are also general and aren't specific to one person, so please take what resonates and leave what doesn't! 

Pile 1

Pile 1, your future partner seems like a bit of a mystery wrapped in a dream. They're the creative type, always eager to lend a hand but not so great at asking for help themselves. It seems they've been through the wringer in love before, maybe coming out of a tough situation when you meet them. This person feels things deeply, maybe even gets lost in their emotions sometimes. They might seem distant to others, but that's just because they struggle to express what's going on inside. Misunderstood as aloof, they're actually just wrestling with a jumble of feelings. Despite this, they're not ones to shy away from adventure. They've got a spark for exploration, a childlike wonder that's both bold and brave. When it comes to decisions, they're all about following their heart, even if it leads them into uncharted territory. So, get ready for a partner who's a bit of an enigma, but with a heart full of courage and a spirit yearning for new experiences.

Pile 2

Pile 2, your potential match is a real go-getter, always aiming to steer their own ship. They might seem a tad controlling, but really, they just value their independence and don't like being told what to do. Rebels at heart, they're not big on following the crowd or taking advice from others – they trust their gut above all else. They're come off as confident and may have a bit of an ego. They might prefer short-term flings over long-term commitments, relishing their freedom and not feeling the need to settle down. They could be a bit of a catch, with plenty of admirers vying for their attention. Living life on the edge is their style, always chasing the next thrill. Yet, beneath that daredevil exterior lies some emotional baggage from past hurts. They might not have fully dealt with it, which sometimes leads them to push the limits. Despite this, they handle it with grace, giving off an air of composure. They're more laid-back than they let on, though, trusting their intuition and going with the flow. Life's too short to sweat the small stuff, and they're all about making the most of every moment. Your next partner is someone who has equal parts spontaneous and soulful, ready to dive into life headfirst and enjoy the ride.

Pile 3

Pile 3, your next partner might not be so new after all – you might already know them. It could be someone you've had a bit of a break from. Work seems to have been a big priority for them, maybe even causing some strain in your relationship. You both decided to take some time apart, but it was always with the understanding that it wasn't goodbye forever. This isn't a case of ghosting; it's more like a mutual agreement to hit pause for a while. Deep down, you both know there are things that need to be hashed out, conversations waiting to happen. They've been sending mixed signals, leaving you feeling a bit confused and maybe even rejected. But hey, you've moved past that – your gut tells you there's more to this story. It's time to have that heart-to-heart you've been putting off. Who knows? There could be some big revelations waiting for both of you. Despite the ups and downs, you trust your intuition when it comes to this person. So, get ready to dive back in and see where this journey takes you.

[khylamarieren]

Femininity is not the absence of strength. It is the confidence and deliberate act of being exactly who God created you to be. Women are powerful in their softness, their nurturing spirit, their creativity, and their childlike wonder. A caring heart towards the people around them is often more impactful than stepping into a setting for the sole reason of trying to prove their worth to men or for the sake of proving their independence/value in some material form. Regardless of what the world says women ought to be in this age, I would like to be warm, gentle, a lover, and a friend. The creator of a home, and the giver of peace &  joy to those I love. It’s okay to want to be a feminine woman.

[weebsinstash]

When I say with my entire being in my heart of hearts that I know with certainty that this-this-this THING right here would do the absolute most unbelievable petty gross obsessive dahmer level shit to you

He's petty he's evil he's got a childlike fascination for seeing what breaks people down and I hate him I hate him I hate him but ALSO what that dick do tho? 🤔

Mahito is the yandere over here doing shit like imprisoning you for his own selfishness and perhaps genuine affection but making you live in absolute deplorable conditions because He's Not Fucking Human And He Doesn't Even Know How To Feed You. He locks you away and disappears for an entire day and comes back with like a single can of wet dog food that he watches you eat from a squatting position like 5 inches away looking at you like Harley Quinn and the egg sandwich. Motherfucker would take all your clothes because he wants to see more of "the natural shape of you" and then doesn't understand why you start shivering. Or he deliberately keeps you like that because he wants to see how long it takes you to crack and beg him for help. He wants to see the depths of your pride as you refuse to grovel, curious of the lengths you'll go, the limits of your body against the chill

This depraved fuck will do dehumanizing little emotional experiments on you where he does shit just because he wants to see how you think and feel and what you'll do and I mean like he'll do SOME REAL SHIT. I'm talking maybe he's stalking you and you can't fight or use cursed techniques and you think he's just like, a human shaped spirit or something who's just a trickster, he's not being violent or getting you alone or anything yet, and then you come home to your apartment one day and he's literally disemboweled your cat on your coffee table and he's playing with pieces of it and says you were giving it more attention than him and sits there pouting as you scream and even tries to like touch you or hold your hand or hug you with. The fucking blood covered hands. like he would be so fucked up on purpose, "awww do you need me to hold you? You're so sensitive but i dont mind :3"

This man out here like "wdym you want me to stay away from you, all I did was kill your cat kill your mom kill your neighbor kill your best friend kill your boss' cousins' landlords' newborn baby BUT WAS THAT REALLY SO BAD 🥺" and does something infinitely worse to scare/coerce you into tolerating his presence

I'm not really uh into body horror or gore but as a side detail I feel like. Uh. There's like a legitimate risk of him actually unintentionally REALLY hurting you and has to use his powers to heal you. Like the one good thing he does is if he were to have you on death's door or like horribly injured he could just. Fix it. He twists a limb in a way he doesn't know it's not supposed to go and breaks it and then puts you back together like a broken toy while ooo'ing and aaa'ing at the way your skin stretches over the grotesque misalignment. Dare I say the horror of "him putting things that are way too big or weirdly shaped in you" also yeah he's one of the things he's putting in you and he's got a really gross like fascination with learning all about that stuff

He's really living just to see how many different ways he can make you cry and how many different emotions he can get you to display, just absolutely dedicated to terrorizing you while also chasing his own internal weird repressed desire for his own sort of belonging. You could be sitting there sobbing and he's either borderline getting off on it or he's standing there MAKING FUN OF YOUR CRIES like deadass even fake crying back to you

And the worst part is he'll do all this fucking shit to you and then the night comes and he'll still be over here like "and you'll let me cuddle you while you sleep right? 👉👈" and he'll be doing that Every. Single. Night. And what are you gonna do, try and kill yourself? Have fun risking accidentally making yourself a Curse and being stuck with him basically FOREVER

[aheartofgold]

Muriel, though? Muriel, who is so pure of heart, so naive, with such a childlike spirit? Muriel, who didn't listen in the private conversation because it wasn't their business? Muriel, who helped Crowley without thought even knowing that Crowley is a demon? Muriel, who Metatron called dim without a second thought for them?

Muriel is going to be sooooooo important

[satorusugurugurl]

Blueberry Pancakes

Pairing: Choso Kamo x Reader

Word Count: 633

Warning: Pancake fail, nothing just fluff!

A/N: I was working on a Geto fic for Fluff Friday but I feel like we all needed a little fluffy Choso in our life! 🥲

The morning sun shone through your bedroom window, causing you to stir in bed. Slowly lifting your head, you grumbled, noticing that your boyfriend was nowhere to be found. Your fingers sped across the bed, feeling his lingering warmth, which meant he wasn’t far away. Letting the sheet fall from your bare body, you grabbed his shirt from the ground, slipping it on along with a clean pair of his boxers.

As you snapped the band over your hips, you heard a crash from the kitchen, followed by a curse and the smell of something burning. Hurrying out, you walked into a slightly smokey kitchen, finding Choso with his back turned to you. One hand held the handle of his frying pan while the other tried scrapping at something in the pan with a spatula.

You said nothing, joining his side as you peered into the pan. Inside was, well, something? It was lumpy, charred, and full of blueberries.

“Cho?”

“Yeah?” The spatula aggressively smacked and prodded at the substance in the pan.

“What are you doing?”

“I was trying to make pancakes.” Your boyfriend winced as the ‘pancake’ bubbled a mysterious smokey bubble. “But well, it uh—” this time the substance hissed, “it didn’t exactly go as planned? I’m pretty sure I’ve failed at making food, yet succeeded in making a cursed spirit out of pancake mix.”

You glanced at the bag full of blueberries and the bowl of batter he’d made. You’d told him how much you wanted blueberry pancakes the previous night. You felt like he reached into your chest and squeezed your heart. He was too flipping cute! So cute, you reached up gently, biting his cheek.

Choso sighed softly, allowing you to nibble at his cheek with a gentle smile. “I suppose you eating my cheek would be more suitable instead of,” the lumpy concoction hissed again, “well, this.” It bubbled more until you stepped in, removing the pan from the heat.

“No worries, we got this.” You scraped the hissing smoking substance into the sink before wiping the pan out. “Let’s see.” You eyes his batter. “All it needs is a little TLC.”

Choso helped you fix the batter, adding more water, sugar, and vanilla to the lumpy substance. Once you deemed it suitable, you sprayed the pan with non-stick spray, poured in the batter, and handed some blueberries to Choso. He patiently waited until tiny bubbles formed at the top before he added them in, making the cutest little smiley face.

“And now we flip!” Choso watched in awe as you flipped the pancake over with a flick.

Choso’s eyes glittered with childlike excitement. “Amazing!” His eyes watched as you lipped the pancake again.

“Yeah?” His warm eyes were focused solely on you. “I should put pancake flipping on my resume.”

Choso shook his head, stepping behind you, his arms snaking around your waist. “I wasn't talking about the pancake flipping.” His lips gently pressed against your cheek. “I was talking about you.” Tuck your face felt like it was on fire at Choso’s words.

“I think you're pretty amazing yourself, Cho.”

“Even though I made a cursed spirit out of pancake batter and blueberries?”

“Especially because of that.”

That was god's honest truth, and Choso knew it too. He smiled wide before leaning in and biting your cheek, winning your giggle. In the warm rays of light that morning, you and Choso stood in the kitchen, flipping pancakes with your lover's arms wrapped around you—one of the best mornings of your entire life.

Forever Tag List!

@darkstarlight82 @pandoness @nealeart @simp-plague @sugurubabe

[celluloidbroomcloset]

It's amazing how young Ed and Stede look during the academy scenes in the first season. That contrast between Ed with the full beard and then clean-shaven, yes, but both of them turn into teenagers, a little wobbly and confused and so sweet with each other. Then Ed's excitement after Stede agrees to run away with him, where he's practically bouncing around, and Stede's anxiety and uncertainty that Ed misses because he's so excited.

It makes their shifts back into their old lives, and how incredibly painful those old lives are without each other, so much harder. We see them move from this combination of childlike joy and anxiety to these increasingly stultifying adult worlds where neither of them really fit anymore, where their spirits are being crushed back into shape.

A lot of OFMD is a move from innocence to experience, for both of them. When they meet again, they've both grown. They've suffered and struggled and lost pieces of themselves and found others, but they've been in each other's hearts the entire time.

That's the hope that Ed kept and the faith that Stede had.

[soneblomsblog]

can you write seokchan fanfic where reader is a little bit childish and seokchan is being patient with her. he's such a silly little green flag 🫶🫶🫶

Seokchan x reader

Seokchan being a green flag and all the cuteness

In the bustling world of Sweet Home, where monsters lurked and shadows whispered, you found solace in the company of Seokchan. His vibrant spirit, like a green flag fluttering in the wind, beckoned you to embrace a touch of childish joy amidst the chaos.

As monsters roamed outside, you and Seokchan built a haven of laughter within the confines of the apartment. Your playful antics, like a splash of color in a monochrome world, captivated Seokchan's heart. His patience, a gentle breeze that never faltered, allowed your childlike wonder to bloom.

In the dimly lit rooms, you found refuge in silly games and innocent laughter. Seokchan, the guardian of your whimsy, became a beacon of comfort. His laughter echoed in the hallways, a sweet melody that chased away the looming shadows.

Together, you navigated the challenges of the Sweet Home world, hand in hand with Seokchan's patience lighting the way. His silly green flag, a symbol of unwavering support, waved proudly in the face of adversity, reminding you that joy could thrive even in the darkest corners.

[kitkatscabinet]

All I want for Christmas

For my lovely wife @juvenillia as a part of the secret Santa exchange. I'm sorry it took so long love

Simon Riley x f! reader

Summary: Your holiday plans are thwarted when the task force is abruptly called away for a mission.

Word count: 3.2k

A/N: reader celebrates Christmas.

You’d always been ambivalent towards the holidays, especially the christmas season. The wonder that had illuminated your childhood at the lights, the decorated trees and the general spirit people exuded had long since faded. While you didn’t hate the holiday season, it was hard to muster up the same level of excitement and magic that children seemed to naturally conjure. 

When it came down to it, you supposed the issue in truth was your family, or rather the lack thereof, most of the remaining members of your jagged family being low, to no contact completely. Atleast, that was the case until your old lieutenant, John Price, had dragged you into his new off the books task force. Sergeants Kyle Garrick and John Mactavish were hard people to hate, not that you’d tried, and both had very quickly wormed their way into your heart through the high stress situations you’d endured together over the years. 

Though given the way Soap had seemingly latched on with both hands and refused to let you go, dragging you to his concernigly empty home in Scotland to spend the holidays together a few years back let you know that he was likely just as lonely. Kyle had hosted the next, Captain Price had been bullied into opening his apartment for the third, and then when it became apparent this would be a 141 tradition, surprisingly Laswell and her wife had welcomed you all with open arms into their home. 

It was through your team, your family, that you started to once again regain that childlike wonder for the holidays. Even Simon, grinch that he seemed to be was always present, glass of Eggnog in his hand as he watched his teammates engage in childlike behaviour from the corner. Soap had tried to pester the large man into wearing the matching pajamas that you, Kyle and him all now proudly wore but that was apparently a step too far. 

You weren’t fooled by his nonchalant persona though, not when you could still so clearly picture the shock and vulnerability that had settled over his pretty unmasked face the first time you’d handed him a full stocking decorated painstakingly with his name in silver thread. The stockings you’d made for your team were incredibly shoddy, a labour of love not skill. Yet even two years later, frayed and chunky, they were still in use. Johnny had been genuinely aghast when you’d tried to take them back, to buy them new, better quality ones. 

With the way your eyes seemed to naturally gravitate towards Simon it would have been impossible not to notice the way he had flinched slightly at your suggestion, hands protectively clutching his stocking. Nor could it escape your notice that every year as the stocking frayed more and more, Simon’s still seemed to be in immaculate shape. Somedays you could swear it seemed to be better off than when you’d first gifted it, though that was probably wishful thinking.  

Your fifth Christmas with the team was rapidly approaching, a fact Johnny wouldnt let you forget, practically vibrating out of his skin at the exciting prospect of celebrating Christmas at your place. As you and Simon were the only remaining members who hadn’t hosted the onus had fallen on you even if you hadn’t volunteered. It seemed the entire squad had silently assumed it would be you, not the paranoidly private Simon, yourself included. 

The apartment you lived in was small but comfortable, and with two weeks until Christmas it was already decked out with lights, tinsel and a small tree covered in garish ornaments. You’d received some odd looks from people in the shopping centre but you were too excited to care. Presents had been bought, multiple for each of your teammates in fact when you kept finding better gifts. Or rather, you’d gathered an assortment of gifts for everyone but Simon. Nothing seemed to quite fit. Sure, there had been a few bits and bobs that you could have settled for, but in your mind nothing had been good enough for him, his gift needed to be perfect. An announcement that the centre was closing ringing through the stores PA system had you dejectedly walking back to your car, the determined promise of tomorrow for sure ringing through your mind. 

Tomorrow is thwarted when the phone you keep in the bedside drawer rings urgently at 3am, rousing you from the light slumber that was characteristic of all your nights sleep. It only takes a few minutes for the gorgginess to exit your system as Price’s grim voice filters through the speaker as you roll out of bed with a less than professional whine. Couldn’t the terrorists or whoever have waited until after the holiday season? Until March even?

Johnny’s just as pouty as you and though the two of you form a coalition to turn your best puppy dog eyes on Price to try and convince him to pawn whatever bullshit mission you’ve been called on to another squad, the captain apparently doesn’t find the act cute enough. Simon jokes that Soap’s ugly mug probably hindered more than anything and thus you were stuck between the two as a sacrificial lamb before things escalated. 

Between the early wake up call and the prospect of being called out so close to Christmas tensions were running a little high. The lack of decent intel further fraying the nerves of everyone bar the ever unflappable Ghost who sat rigid and alert as ever even when you slumped down in the seat next to him on the helo. You’d barely been given a few hours to prep before you were already getting shipped off to Chechnya where the team was then tasked with entering the country very illegally and covertly. In otherwords the whole thing was a shit show and a half and it was felt through the silent tension that thrummed in the air. 

Simon’s large muscled frame pressed lightly against your side, something you were increasingly aware of as the flight droned on. Heat emanating from his body and sinking into your skin. Pressed so closely, you could smell him before he was marred by sweat, dirt and blood, a rarity. He didn’t wear a nice cologne, smelling like simple soap and washing detergent, but it was nice nonetheless. It was nice because it was just so Simon. 

Exhausted already both physically and mentally, you quickly fall asleep to the lull of the whirring blades and warm pillow of muscle sitting to your left, head lolling to slump against his arm. Lost in your slumber as you are, you completely miss the way he tenses minutely at the sensation before quickly relaxing, shuffling just a little to ensure your maximum comfort. He spends far too long staring at your sleeping face, warm eyes committing every little detail to memory. It’s not until he reluctantly tears his gaze away from your peaceful visage that he sees Captain Price’s amused look, brow raised pointedly as he stares at his two subordinates. Not for the first time in his life Simon is thankful for the mask, leaving none of the pink blush marring his skin visible. 

The mission goes totally fubar almost immediately, because of course it does, the whole thing was fucked from the start. Somewhere in the back of the alarms whirring in your mind as you ran through the dense woodlands you recognise that maybe Kyle’s theory of foul play wasn’t so farfetched. 

Price is barking something over the gunfire that you don’t hear over the chaos and deafening ringing  in your ears, Johnny’s swearing over the comms as he switches between sniping and hightailing it down from overwatch to the exfil location. You’re half dragging, half carrying Kyle along as he mumbles deliriously, head slumped into the crook of your neck and left leg hanging nearly limply as you both blindly stumble. 

You’re fucked. You and Kyle are so unbelievably fucked it’s a little funny, and if it weren’t for the fact your lungs were burning and working overtime to expand and provide you with desperately needed oxygen you’d probably be laughing. 

You’re fucked. You’re probably going to die. You and Kyle, who’s useless without you, who’s relying on you to get him to safety. That’s the part that stings the most, that causes your lower lip to wobble traitorously and tears of panic to build in your lashline. Not the fact that you’ll die, forgotten and buried in a cover up orchestrated by your government, but the fact that you’ll take Kyle with you. Sweet, loyal, driven Kyle who wormed his way into your life and into your damn heart. Your confidante. The only person who knew how you really felt about… Simon. 

Simon Riley. The goddamned smug, cocky, bastard that had taken it a step further than the rest of your teammates when he smashed his way into your life. The man you eventually came to realise was nothing like the fear tinged rumours. Sure, the Ghost was scary and more than a little rough around the edges but Simon was kind, generous, gentle, funny, and looking back on it you suppose you’d been doomed from the start. 

You were going to die and he was all you could think about. Where was he? Was he hurt? Was he safe? What if he didn’t make it out? Would he die alone, bleeding out in the snow, not knowing that you loved him?

Moving on a cocktail of adrenaline, muscle memory and desperation you finally burst out of the treeline and towards the road where the exfil vehicles were already roaring to life. A quick head count has you sagging in relief despite the situation. Johnny. Price. Simon. They’re all waiting for you and Kyle, and though it’s impossible to gauge any injuries just yet, it seems that you and Kyle are the worst off by far. 

The relief abruptly leaves your body with a yelp as you take one step down the small hill towards the road only to immediately trip, legs giving way as you and subsequently Kyle fall forwards and tumble down through the slush. Between one blink and the next the shouting starts up again and you’re ceremoniously pulled up from the ground and tugged into a vehicle in a mess of confusion and limbs. 

When your vision finally focuses it’s to the sight of brown eyes crinkled with more concern than you’d ever seen surrounded by a signature skull mask. Trying to sit up, the world tilts precariously once more as a large hand pushes your sternum back down against the seats and a gravelly accent barks something at you. Any other time you’d be elated at the touch but right now you couldn’t even begin to think to appreciate it.

Simon’s yelling something that sounds vaguely like your name, as if trying to get your attention between whatever he’s screaming at who’s driving. Your head lolls to the side in an attempt to better gauge your surroundings but the movement does nothing but send your vision spinning, a sudden sharp burning pain radiating from near your collarbone. Clumsily one of your hands attempts to clutch the aching site, attempting to locate the problem. You end up missing in spectacular fashion, blinking in confusion at your sudden lack of motor skills until there’s a hand on your chin, tilting your face back up to look into uncharacteristically alarmed eyes. 

Simon’s other hand pushes down on your shoulder harshly and pain anew lights your nerves on fire as you scream, tears streaming down your cheeks as you thrash. All you achieve is further agitating your injuries and expending the very little adrenaline fuelled energy you still had. 

“-me. Look at me!” Your hearing suddenly kicks back just in time to hear the tinge of desperation in the Lieutenant’s voice, the black spots in your vision clearing just a little to allow you one last look into Simon’s eyes. Even when they’re wide with terror you can’t help but think how pretty his eyes are, the sentiment might even slip past your tingling lips though you can’t be sure as you abruptly lose the battle and your body shuts down into unconsciousness.  

It’s a steady, consistent beeping that your mind registers first, before your eyelids that feel like they’re weighed down with glue even open. Your lack of vision quickly becomes second on the list of priorities when you try to breathe, only to find yourself gagging and choking on an obtrusion in your throat. You struggle blindly for what feels like an eternity, panic mounting as you fight for oxygen and to get your leaden, useless limbs to cooperate. 

Suddenly hands are grabbing at you, firm voice speaking over the now rapid beeping of what’s probably the heart monitor. Your eyes burst open at the same instant the trachael tube is pulled out, leaving you to gasp and cough for air as a warm hand cups your cheek tenderly whilst helping you sit up. It takes a few more seconds for the blur in your vision to completely clear but when it does it’s to the visage of Simon’s soft brown eyes once again. 

He’s not wearing his mask, giving you the perfect view of his deep purple eye bags and greasy, dishevelled hair. “You look like shit,” your voice is a croaky rasp, throat like sandpaper and Simon’s handing you a styrofoam cup of water before you can even ask. You take small sips of the cool liquid, savouring the soothing nature. 

“Pot meet kettle” he grunted, slumping down into the far too small chair that had been pulled to your bedside. You watch in appreciate silence as he brings one arm up to rub the back of his neck, the muscles in his biceps flexing beneath the sleeve of his shirt. Though after a few more seconds of observation the corners of your lips dip into a frown, he seemed far too used to the room, almost as if he was used to it. Had he been watching over you? Waiting for you to wake up?

You don’t comment on it though, a sudden panic smacking you square in the chest as you sit up instinctively once more, ignoring the pain that shoots up the left side of your body once more as you suddenly remember, “Oh god Kyle-” 

“Garrick’s fine, already discharged. We’ve just been waiting for you to get your lazy ass up sleeping beauty.” You hate the way your traitorous heart skips a beat at his words, the monitor betraying your emotions and given the way Simon smirks at you it’s clear he noticed. 

Though the embarrassment is quickly flushed away by a second round of panic, “wait, what’s the date today? What happened? How long have I been out?” the questions fly out rapid fire. He answers all your questions calmly and with patience, not at all angry. You’d been shot, which certainly explained the fierce ache in your chest and arm even through whatever drugs they’d doped you up on. That made sense you supposed, but it was hardly as alarming as when the date registered in your mind. 

“Wait it’s the 26th?” devastation coloured your tone, “I missed Christmas?” It was such a silly, trivial thing to get upset over. You’d almost died, but that was nothing in the face of missing getting to celebrate with your team. Your lower lip starts to wobble dangerously before you can stop it as Simon’s eyes widen in alarm, standing so quickly the chair falls over with a clang that gets ignored as he hovers anxiously, taking your clenched hands in his own and rubbing calming circles over your pulse point in your wrist. 

“It’s ok lass, nobody’s upest with you. We’ll celebrate when you get discharged yeah?” Looking back on the memory you’ll laugh, but right now you’re too emotional to react logically. 

“S’not just that, I didn’t have time to get you a present! Everything was s’posed to be perfect and now it’s all ruined” you exclaim. The two of you must make quite the sight from an outsiders perspective, a near hysterical woman more upset over the prospect of missing Christmas than the fact she’d been shot and a hulking man in black hovering somehwat frantically in an attempt to soothe. 

“You waking up is the best present I could’ve asked for darlin’” he finally murmurs, so quietly that you almost don’t hear. His long, calloused fingers entwined with yours as he sat on the edge of the mattress, having finally disengaged the finnicky railing. 

“That doesn’t count” you weakly protest, once again cursing the heart monitor for giving away your internal struggle, “‘sides, Johnny and Kyle got three things.” Some of the humour has returned to the situation for Simon, and your pout only deepens when he smirks at you. 

“Did they now? You playing favourites?” You know he’s teasing but you still can’t help but squawk of indignation. “You’ll have to make it up to me,” he continues on, completely unphased even as you smack him on the arm like a child throwing a temper tantrum, “How bout a kiss? That should be enough yeah?” The heart monitor blares like thunder in the background in a way you’ll know will probably alarm the nurses but you can’t think about that. Can’t think about anything other than Simon. The baritone lilt of his voice that had trailed off as he dipped his head towards you, leaving enough of a gap for you to pull away if you wanted though the warmth of his breath still fans across your face. 

His lips are rough, chapped and the scruff of his unshaven face is uncomfortable against your skin but the kiss is perfect nonetheless. Even with the blaring monitor and the burning fire that consumes the left side of your body in agitation from your sudden movement you don’t pull back just yet. Both hands cupping his cheeks reverently as you all but threw yourself at him. Despite the pain and slight embarrassment, it’s perfect. 

When your lips part neither of you pull away, and Simon rests his forehead against your own as you hum contentedly, the both of you leaning desperately into each other’s touch. It’s not until you hear a whooping holler and a series of whistles that you both startle and jerk away from each other in alarm. Kyle’s clapping and jeering alongside Soap whilst your captain simply sighs in exasperation at the scene, though there’s amusement detectable in his smile. 

“And here I was thinking ye’d need this” Johnny grinned mischievoulsy, waving around what you quickly realise is a bushel of mistletoe, causing you to roll your eyes at his theatrics as Simon huffed. 

“Just cause you need an excuse to get kisses doen’t mean I do Johnny” Simon quips and it’s your turn to laugh at the blatant offense that covers the Scotsmans face. The four of you are then promptly made subject to unintelligible Scottish blathering as Simon presumably gets cussed out. Your laughter is briefly interrupted when you feel fingers entwine with yours and you briefly shoot Simon a look from the corner of your eye before you squeeze his hand, face beaming as you turn back to look at Soap. 

It may have been a day late, but as you sat surrounded by your team, with Simon by your side, thumb stroking circles over your wrist you had to admit that it was the best Christmas to date. 

Taglist: @ghostslillady @bunnyreaper @tokusho@ohworm-writes @kmi-02 @dumb-fawkin-bitch @jumpofmyclif @tiredmetalenthusiast @Chibijustuff @cooliofango @101crows

[rcerwrites]

Racing with Melted Hearts || LS2

─ mini summary ❨ where you and logan find solace in winter's embrace, chasing dreams side by side. ❩

─ pairing ❨ logan sargeant x gn!reader ❩

─ warnings/notes: none, just tooth rotting fluff ( implied romantic relationship if you squint really hard )

─ word count: 366

The snowfall was serene, each flake descending from the sky like a delicate dance of winter magic. Amidst the flurry, the karting track stood silent, its curves and straightaways blanketed in pristine white. Logan stood at the edge of the track, marveling at the peaceful scene before him. He had always found solace in the snow, a fleeting respite from the fast-paced world of motorsport.

As Logan watched the snowflakes drift lazily to the ground, he heard the sound of footsteps approaching. Turning around, he spotted you, a fellow driver and close friend, making your way towards him. A playful grin plastered on your face, eyes sparkling with childlike wonder.

"Look! I caught a snowflake in my mouth!" You beamed, opening your mouth to reveal a tiny snowflake resting on your tongue.

Logan chuckled, the corners of his lips curling into a smile. "You never cease to amaze me, Y/N.." he remarked, admiring your infectious enthusiasm.

You grinned back, cheeks flushed red due to the cold. "It's the little things in life, Logan. Sometimes, you just have to stop and appreciate them," Your voice soft yet sturdy.

They stood together in comfortable silence, the snowflakes swirling around them like a winter symphony. In that moment, amidst the tranquility.

As they continued to watch the snowfall, Logan couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for your presence in his life. You brought light and laughter wherever you went, and he found himself drawn to your magnetic energy.

Suddenly, You turn to him, as your eyes shine with mischief. "Race you to the finish line?" you challenged him, a mischievous grin tugging at your lips.

Logan laughed, the sound echoing through the stillness of the winter air. "You're on," he replied, his competitive spirit igniting at the prospect of a friendly race

With that, they dashed off in a sprint, running throughout the windy karting track, your laughter combining, mingling with the soft crunch of snow beneath your feet. In that moment, as you raced side by side through the winter wonderland, Logan realised that he was exactly where he was meant to be – with you by his side, chasing snowflakes and racing towards their dreams together.

[zapreportsblog]

Hey babyyyyy,

Can we do some more poly!volturi kings x reader where the reader has a great family bond with the guards? And the kings are so proud like "that's the kind of queen we needed."

This sounds perfect, hope you enjoy it ✨

↳ bonds beyond blood ↲

➘ summary : the three volturi kings are proud that their mate is getting along so well with their top guards

➘ aro x reader x caius x marcus, twilight x reader , volturi x reader

In the heart of Volterra's ancient citadel, where shadows danced and history whispered through the stones, the Volturi reigned supreme. Aro, the charismatic mastermind; Marcus, the contemplative soul; and Caius, the unyielding enforcer, ruled with an iron grip, their names synonymous with power in the supernatural realm.

But the immortal facade these kings presented to the world belied the intricate web of emotions they harbored for one human: (Y/N), a woman whose presence ignited a transformation within their centuries-old hearts.

The tale began on an unassuming evening, when (Y/N)'s fate collided with that of the Volturi. Lost in the labyrinthine streets of Volterra, she wandered into their world, unaware of the enigma that awaited her. Aro's gifted sight caught the glimpse of a mortal, a fragile soul amidst the immortal world. Intrigued, he beckoned her forward, a single interaction setting in motion a destiny no one could foresee.

As (Y/N) stood before the thrones of the three kings, her heart pounding, she couldn't ignore the inexplicable pull she felt. Aro's penetrating gaze, Marcus' contemplative demeanor, and Caius' unyielding aura seemed to draw her in, weaving a connection she struggled to understand.

The kings' curiosity grew as they observed her, each captivated by the essence she brought to their lives. Aro's laughter became more vibrant, Marcus' rare smiles more frequent, and Caius' stern façade softened in her presence. A silent understanding flowed between them, forging a bond that transcended human limitations.

While (Y/N)'s presence changed the kings, it also ignited an unexpected kinship among their loyal guards. Alec and Jane, the gifted twins who once struck fear into the hearts of enemies, found in (Y/N) a maternal figure they had never experienced. Her warmth and wisdom touched the depths of their immortal hearts, transforming their relationship into one of unwavering trust.

Felix, the formidable protector, discovered an unexpected gentleness in (Y/N), a trait that resonated deeply with his own spirit. Demetri, the master tracker, admired her determination, finding a kindred spirit in her unwavering resolve.

But it was Alec and Jane who held the most unique connection with (Y/N). With their childlike appearances frozen in time, they looked to her as a maternal figure they had never known. (Y/N) nurtured them with her wisdom, guided them with her love, and in return, the twins showered her with unwavering loyalty and adoration.

In the shadowed halls of the Volturi castle, an intricate dance of relationships unfolded. Kings and guards, vampire and human, became bound by bonds that defied tradition and expectation. (Y/N) stood at the heart of it all, an unwitting catalyst for change and unity.

As the days turned to nights, and (Y/N)'s presence continued to weave its magic, none could anticipate the challenges that lay ahead. Threats both old and new would test the strength of their bonds, and the very fabric of their existence would be shaken.

But in that moment, as the castle's stone walls whispered secrets of centuries past, the Volturi kings and their beloved human mate reveled in the newfound harmony they had forged. They were yet to understand that this harmony would become their greatest strength in the trials that awaited them.

In the heart of the grand Volturi castle, (Y/N)'s presence continued to illuminate the lives of both kings and guards. The bond she shared with Aro, Marcus, and Caius flourished, growing stronger with each passing day. It was a connection that transcended time, defying the very laws that governed their supernatural existence.

As (Y/N) navigated the intricacies of the immortal world, she found herself drawn into the lives of the twins, Alec and Jane. Their once-uncertain existence had transformed into one filled with warmth and acceptance, all thanks to the woman who looked upon them with the eyes of a guardian. She provided guidance, friendship, and a motherly love they had never experienced.

Alec and Jane, once feared for their devastating abilities, now wielded their powers with control and restraint, a testament to (Y/N)'s patient guidance. They had found in her the stability they needed, a figure of trust they could confide in and look up to.

Felix and Demetri, too, had been touched by (Y/N)'s presence. Felix's exterior, once unyielding, softened in the glow of her compassion. He had found solace in her calming influence, a touchstone of gentleness amid the tumultuous world he inhabited. Demetri, with his unerring tracking skills, marveled at (Y/N)'s strength and resilience. He respected her as an equal, an ally, and a friend.

As days turned to nights and the castle's halls echoed with secrets, (Y/N) embraced her role within the Volturi's inner circle. The kings, once distant figures of power, now confided in her their thoughts and hopes, their fears and aspirations. Their bond with her had opened a door to vulnerability, allowing them to share a side of themselves that had long remained hidden.

However, the tranquility that (Y/N) had brought to the Volturi world would soon be disrupted by shadows that lurked on the horizon. Rumors of a rising force, one that sought to challenge the very foundations of their rule, began to circulate. It was a threat that no one could ignore, and the unity forged among kings, guards, and their human mate would be put to the test.

As tension mounted, the intricate relationships woven within the castle walls would be shaken to their core. Loyalties would be questioned, and the limits of love and friendship would be pushed to their breaking point. The kings and their newfound family, bound by love rather than blood, would have to stand together to face the storm that approached.

And so, as the sun dipped below the horizon and cast long shadows across the ancient city, the Volturi prepared to confront a challenge that would either strengthen their bonds beyond measure or shatter the delicate harmony they had built. (Y/N)'s presence, once an unexpected thread in the fabric of their lives, would prove to be the source of strength that held them together in the face of adversity.

Within the towering walls of the Volturi castle, a sense of anticipation hung in the air. As (Y/N) moved through the grand halls, her steps were now accompanied by an underlying tension. The threat that loomed on the horizon was palpable, casting a shadow over the unity she had helped foster.

The kings, Aro, Marcus, and Caius, convened in their private chamber, their expressions etched with a rare mixture of concern and determination. (Y/N) was there, a steadfast presence amidst their deliberations, a living testament to the bonds they had forged.

Aro's eyes gleamed with his usual curiosity, though there was an edge of worry that betrayed his usual confidence. Marcus, ever the observer, seemed to contemplate the future with a weight that surpassed his years. Caius, the embodiment of authority, clenched his jaw, his resolve unwavering in the face of impending conflict.

Beside them, Alec and Jane stood, their faces a mirror of their guardians'. The twins who had found a maternal figure in (Y/N) were now mature beyond their years, their commitment to the family they had formed unwavering. Felix and Demetri flanked the group, their expressions a mixture of vigilance and readiness, ever prepared to defend those they held dear.

As the kings deliberated, (Y/N)'s gaze shifted to the window, her thoughts a whirlwind of emotions. She had become a part of this intricate tapestry, her life interwoven with those of kings and guards alike. The unity they had cultivated was a source of strength, but it was about to be tested in ways they couldn't predict.

News had reached the Volturi of a faction that sought to challenge their dominion, a group that believed their way of life was threatened by the kings' rule. The realization that their world could be on the brink of upheaval sent ripples of tension through the castle's inhabitants.

With a sense of resolve, Aro turned his gaze toward (Y/N), his voice steady yet tinged with urgency. "My dear (Y/N)," he began, "we are faced with a challenge that demands our unity. The bonds we have formed must not falter in the face of adversity."

Marcus, his usually somber eyes showing a glimmer of determination, continued, "We have faced countless challenges throughout history. Our strength lies in our ability to stand together."

Caius, the embodiment of authority, spoke with a conviction that sent shivers down the spines of all present. "We must protect what we've built, even if it means confronting those who seek to undermine us."

And so, a plan began to take shape, a strategy that relied on the unique strengths of each individual. (Y/N)'s role in this impending conflict was not to be underestimated; her presence had already proven to be a beacon of strength, a source of inspiration for those who fought beside her.

As the sun dipped below the horizon and cast long shadows across the castle walls, a sense of anticipation settled over the Volturi stronghold. Bonds forged through love and shared purpose would soon be put to the test, as the unity of kings, guards, and their human mate stood against the gathering storm.

And as the first drops of rain began to fall, (Y/N) braced herself for the challenges ahead, ready to stand by the side of those she held dear and face whatever trials fate had in store.

[ultrone]

𝗨𝗡𝗗𝗘𝗥 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗣𝗔𝗟𝗘 𝗠𝗢𝗢𝗡𝗟𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧 ┊ 𝖿𝗐𝖻 𝗍𝗈 𝖿𝗋𝗂𝖾𝗇𝖽𝗌 𝗍𝗈 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾𝗋𝗌

+ best friends jackie and lottie

synopsis. after the crash, your friends with benefits arrangement with nat takes an unexpected turn. the two of you become inseparable, seeking solace in each other's company and ignoring the past that tied the two of you together — will the feelings you once concealed resurface, or remain hidden under the surface? (click here to see request)

cw. minor nsfw — descriptive hook-up session & mentions of masturbation, — jealousy, cursing.

wc. 4.4k

It had been a few weeks since the crash, and to say it had been tough would be an understatement. One day, you were brimming with excitement, ready to head to nationals with your team. The next day, you found yourselves stranded in the heart of the woods, far from any signs of civilization. However, amidst this dire situation, you were grateful to be surrounded by familiar faces — your teammates and your closest friends.

The crash had deeply affected the group, leaving everyone shaken to their core. In the aftermath, everyone clung to each other for consolation and support. For you, Jackie, Lottie, and Nat became your closest sources of comfort.

Jackie was quite the character. From being the team captain and wielding great influence, she had become the most "useless" member of the group. Although she made attempts to lift everyone's spirits, she showed little effort in actually assisting with any of the tasks. Even the simplest chores, like fetching water from the lake, made her pull a face and inwardly complain. You loved her a lot, as she was one of your closest friends along with Lottie, whom you've known since middle school. But her behaviour could be irritating at times, and you often felt burdened by her childlike demeanour.

“Jackie, you have to push it harder,” you told her, observing how she struggled to cut the meat with the knife. "And don't bend your wrist like that; you might hurt yourself," you advised.

“I am pushing,” She responded. She made another attempt, applying slightly more force, but her posture clearly revealed her lack of genuine effort. Holding the knife with one hand, barely gripping the back end, and raising her other arm in a nonchalant manner, she was far from giving it her all.

"No, you're not," you asserted, taking the knife from her grasp. “You have to push it ‘till it pops, just like Shauna taught us yesterday,” you demonstrated, doing it correctly.

“Yuck, gross,” she exclaimed, cringing and chuckling, moving away in disgust. “Ew.”

"It's not that bad," you replied, washing your hands in a bucket of lukewarm water placed on the table.

“Yeah, I’m not doing that,” she declared while crossing her arms, causing you to roll your eyes at her.

It wasn’t always bad though, after all, Jackie had always been the kind of person who knew how to brighten everyone up. Whenever you felt down or hopeless about the whole situation, she would find a way to comfort you, even if she herself felt the same. Whether it was through uplifting words or coming up with fun distractions, she always knew how to make you feel better.

But there was this one time when things took a turn. Around two weeks ago, Jackie came up with an idea for a spiritual game, similar to Charlie Charlie, and everyone agreed to play — except for Tai, Laura Lee, and coach Ben. The rest of you gathered on the second floor of the cabin, forming a circle and lighting candles in a sort of ritualistic manner. Shauna took on the role of the "messenger" or something like that, holding a pendulum to contact the spirit of the dead man who had been in the cabin when you arrived.

At first, it was fun, with questions about crushes and gossip floating around. However, as time went on, the tone shifted dramatically. Javi's question about the possibility of death out in the wilderness cast a somber cloud over the group, plunging everyone into a more serious mindset. And that's when everything took a turn for the worse. The ambiance abruptly shifted when all the candles extinguished simultaneously, and Lottie appeared to be possessed. She muttered incomprehensible words in French and injured her forehead, causing it to bleed. The situation became so alarming that Laura Lee instinctively grabbed a Bible and threw it at Lottie, which eventually snapped her back to reality. However, she was never the same after that incident.

Looking back, Lottie and you became friends back in middle school. One day, while you were playing alone on the swings, a young Taissa suddenly pushed you and ran off, laughing mischievously. You ended up falling on your knees and scraping them, causing a small amount of bleeding. Trying to hold back your tears, you heard a gentle voice coming from behind you.

"Are you okay?" You glanced up and saw a girl with long brown hair cascading over her shoulders. She had two strands of hair tied up at the back with a pink bow.

You nodded shyly, trying to keep a tear from falling as you rubbed your eye.

"Don't cry!" she said with concern. "Come on, let's go to the bathroom and get you cleaned up," she suggested, extending her hand toward you with a warm smile.

You slowly smiled back and took her hand. "Thank you," you said softly. She assisted you in standing up and then guided you carefully towards the bathroom.

"By the way, my name is Charlotte, but everyone calls me Lottie," she introduced herself with a wide grin. "What's your name?" she asked, curiosity evident in her eyes.

"My name is Y/n," you replied, returning her smile.

Ever since you were young, Lottie had always been an incredibly caring and loyal friend. She was full of fun and wit, and if anything bad ever happened, she would defend you as if her life depended on it. But after the incident at the cabin, something changed within her. It was hard to put into words. She was still the same Lottie you had always known, yet somehow different at the same time.

You had been aware of Lottie's struggle with schizophrenia for a few years now. She had entrusted you with this information, being the only friend she had opened up to about it. After the crash, you became increasingly concerned because you knew it was only a matter of time before she ran out of her medication. Gradually, you began to notice peculiar behaviour from her, and she acknowledged it as well. Still, you tried to reassure her, believing that her odd actions were merely a result of adjusting to a lower dosage of her pills.

However, after the incident, strange occurrences started happening that left you questioning whether Lottie's diagnosis of schizophrenia was accurate. How could she have stopped Tai's sleepwalking problem and even attracted a bear to the cabin when everyone was on the verge of starvation? It felt too coincidental to ignore.

Nevertheless, despite any of these events, your relationship with both Jackie and Lottie remained intact. If anything, those experiences only strengthened the bond you shared with them. However, if you were being completely honest, the person who provided you with the most comfort at the moment was Nat. She seemed like the only stable presence in your life, unaffected by childlike behavior or unpredictable episodes. She was simply the same old Nat you had always known, perhaps a bit more apprehensive, but still maintaining her usual chill and nonchalant demeanour. 

Nat and you had an unusual story, if you could even call it that. You first met during soccer practice, although you didn't interact much at the time. You held the co-captain position while Jackie excelled as the team's captain. Though you weren't as skilled at leading as Jackie was, you were known for being one of the kindest souls on the team, getting along with pretty much everybody — and of course, your skills on the field were top-notch, — which led to your selection as co-captain.

On the other hand, Nat wasn't as involved in the team dynamics as you were. She was a talented player and got along well with most of your teammates, but she spent most of her time hanging out with Kevyn or her own group of friends, usually getting high or drunk during school hours. The only moments you really shared with her were in the empty locker room, either before anyone else arrived or right after everyone else had left. Interestingly, many of your memories together involved her grabbing your ass and sticking her tongue in your mouth. Not that it bothered you in the slightest.

“Fuck Nat—,” you groaned faintly as the girl attacked your mouth with her tongue, tenderly biting your bottom lip. She was pressing you against the wall, and your hands were tangled in her hair as her hands slowly worked her way up your abdomen, seeking your breasts.

Just as she was about to grab them, a loud whistle from outside the locker rooms interrupted the moment, followed by a grunt from Nat.

"Fuck, we've got to go," you said hastily.

"Do we really?" she responded casually, pushing you harder against the wall and sliding her hands to your breasts, holding them tightly. She peppered open-mouthed kisses along your neck, eliciting soft moans from you. But mustering all your strength, you gently pushed her away.

"Yes, we do," you said, giving her a quick peck on the lips before darting out of the room. Glancing back at her, you motioned for her to follow. She rolled her eyes but quickly caught up with you.

Before the crash, you never imagined Nat and you would become close friends. In fact, if someone had told you that you would spend most of your time together, doing things and just hanging out, you would have probably laughed at them. Both of you came from completely different worlds, and while you didn't actively avoid each other, she was seen as an outcast while you were considered popular. The fact that the two of you were secretly involved with each other was already a big boundary crossed. But the crash changed everything. It not only took away your innocence, but also erased any social barriers that had previously prevented you from interacting.

And so you did.

The first time you interacted with each other was right after the crash. You woke up in the galley, trapped under a fallen food cart. Panicked and surrounded by the increasing flames, you struggled to free yourself. No matter how hard you pushed, the cart wouldn't budge in the narrow space. It felt like the end. But then, in a swift move, Nat appeared and managed to move the cart aside. She reached out her hand, and you grabbed it, escaping just seconds before an explosion engulfed the area.

You owed her your life, and a simple thank you didn't seem sufficient. So, you started assisting her with tasks and accompanying her on hunts, as a way to repay her. But what began as gratitude quickly became something more. Spending time together became your favourite activity. The more you talked, the closer you grew, finding solace and comfort in each other's company. Yet, you both consciously avoided discussing your pre-crash relationship, as if you had made an unspoken agreement to forget the past and start anew, as if you had only met in the aftermath of the crash.

However, you couldn't deny that sometimes you found yourself staring at her lips for longer than you should, or imagining the sensation of her hands against your skin. Even mundane tasks like watching her handle equipment or lift something heavy would trigger images of her effortlessly carrying you or holding you against a wall. Initially, you indulged in these memories, closing your eyes and relishing in them while trying to find release on your own. But as time went on, these memories intertwined with your growing feelings for her. What was once a simple burning in your core, started to evolve into butterflies in your stomach and a persistent ache in your heart.

So you stopped.

You made a conscious decision to stop dwelling on those thoughts. You went cold turkey, cutting off any mental imagery or fantasies that surpassed the boundaries of friendship. And so far, this self-imposed restraint seemed to be working.

It had been a chill day, with everyone finishing their tasks ahead of time and not much else to do but engage in conversations or let their minds wander. Jackie, as always, came up with an idea to make the evening more special. Instead of having dinner at the cabin as usual, she proposed building a cozy bonfire by the river and enjoying quality time together, reminiscent of the day of the plane crash when all of you gathered around a bonfire on that first night, sharing stories and laughing. Everyone readily agreed, and it was decided to meet at the designated spot once darkness had fully descended upon the sky.

As Shauna took charge of preparing the meat, Van and Tai pitched in by gathering wood for the bonfire. Lottie, Mari and you took on the task of gathering blankets to ensure everyone would be warm and comfortable. The remaining members of the group found various tasks to assist with, each contributing to the preparations in their own way.

When the moment arrived, all of you met at the designated spot and settled into your seats. Jackie positioned herself between Shauna and Lottie, and you found yourself sandwiched between Lottie and Nat. The rest of the team took their seats accordingly, creating a circle around the fire. Each person grabbed a stick and skewered a piece of meat, holding it above the flames to cook it to perfection before taking a bite.

"The things I'd do to have a working walkman right now," Tai said with a sigh, chewing a piece of her meat.

"It's okay, we’ve got Crystal to bless our ears, right you guys?" Van joked, making everyone chuckle, except Crystal, who blushed in embarrassment.

"What was that song Y/n was obsessed with? The one she always played in the shower after practice," Jackie asked while laughing at the memory.

"Wasn't it Pump Up The Jam?" Shauna asked, trying to remember.

"No, it was—" You got interrupted by Lottie and Nat, who spoke up at the same time.

"Be My Lover," both of them said with smiles on their faces. They looked at each other and chuckled when they realized they said the same thing. However, you noticed that Nat's smile fell too quickly to be genuine, but you didn't mention anything.

"And then she stopped listening to it because the last time she did, she slipped while dancing in the showers and pulled the curtain down with her as she fell," Van began, laughing loudly.

"And then Coach Ben walked in and saw her on the floor," Jackie finished, laughing along with everyone else.

“And now that image is forever ingrained in my memory,” Coach Ben said with a hint of humour, making a grimace.

“I thought we all agreed not to speak of this ever again,” you said with an embarrassed huff, unable to hide your growing smile.

For the rest of the evening, all of you continued to joke around and share stories, until all the meat had been eaten and the firewood was nearly depleted. Eventually, everyone returned to the cabin, ready to catch some sleep.

You had been lying down with your eyes closed for an hour already, but for some reason, sleep eluded you. Growing impatient, you wondered whether a walk to the lake could help you relax. 

In stark contrast to the city, the sky here remained untainted, free from any traces of pollution, affording you an unobstructed view of the shimmering stars. Not only that, but the hush and serenity of the night filled you with a sense of tranquility; there was something enchanting about being awake while the rest of the girls — and the world — slumbered.

While lost in thought, you caught a faint sound of sheets shifting. You turned to your left and saw Nat moving under the covers. She scratched her head, indicating that she was still awake. You moved closer to her and softly rested your hand on her shoulder, causing her to jump a little.

"Hey, Nat," you whispered, softly calling out her name, ensuring only she could hear you. She turned towards you, her weary eyes showing a hint of concern.

"What's up? You good?" she asked, her brow slightly furrowed.

"Yeah, I'm fine. I just can't seem to fall asleep," you confessed, toying with the edge of the pillow using your fingers.

"Same here," she admitted, biting her lip.

"Wanna come outside with me?" you asked, a glimmer of excitement in your eyes.

"And do what?" she inquired, curiosity evident in her tone.

"Just come," you replied confidently. Without hesitation, you gingerly slid the blanket off your body and rose to your feet, moving stealthily towards the door, careful not to make a sound. Nat quietly trailed behind you, mirroring your every move.

As soon as you stepped outside, the autumn weather greeted you with a contrasting mix of warmth and a chilly breeze caressing your skin. Walking ahead, Nat followed closely behind you, the sound of fallen leaves crackling beneath your shoes as you made your way towards the lake.

"Are we heading to the lake?" Nat inquired.

"No, we're actually going to Seven Eleven," you responded in a sarcastic tone.

"Ha ha," she chuckled in the same tone, nudging your shoulder with a grin.

You continued walking until you reached the edge of the lake, coming to a halt. Closing your eyes and inhaling deeply, you felt a wave of relaxation wash over you, as if the scenery before you had a calming effect. Opening your eyes, you swiftly removed your pants, letting them fall to the ground, and proceeded to take off your shirt while making your way towards the water.

"It’s like three in the morning, Y/n. Are you insane?” She asked incredulously.

“What? You scared?” You playfully teased, dashing into the water.

She let out a huff, a chuckle escaping her lips as she watched you. Unable to resist the temptation, she stripped off her own clothes and followed closely behind you, a smile lighting up her face as she raced towards you.

As she drew closer, the water already lapping at both of your knees, she playfully gave you a shove, causing you to tumble into the water with her falling on top of you. Laughter erupted from both of you as you playfully wrestled in the water. Eventually, you managed to wriggle free from her grasp and swam farther into the lake, the water gradually rising until it reached your neck. It had a pleasant temperature, neither cold nor warm, just perfect.

Submerging your head underwater, you emerged with a graceful backward flick, water droplets cascading from your fluttering eyelashes. As your vision cleared, you spotted Nat floating in the water right in front of you. Her platinum-white hair floated gracefully around her head, her eyes peacefully closed, and her lips slightly parted as her breathing slowed down after all the splashing around. The moonlight above you cast a gentle glow, reflecting off her wet body, creating an ethereal illumination that highlighted her features.

Under the soft glow of the moon, her body appeared breathtakingly beautiful, captivating you completely. You found yourself unable to tear your gaze away, consumed by a feeling of longing. You swam closer to her, mirroring her position but facing the opposite direction, aligning your head next to hers. Closing your eyes, you took a deep breath and exhaled, relishing the gentle caress of the water against your body. The only sounds that filled the air were the rhythm of your breaths and the tranquil melodies of nature. Amidst the aftermath of the plane crash, there were small moments like this that held a special allure—dashing to a lake in the dead of night, immersing yourselves in the water, far from the flickering lights and urban clamour. It was just the two of you and the tranquil embrace of nature.

"I wish we could stay like this forever," you murmured, your voice filled with yearning. Nat simply hummed in response, fully engrossed in the moment and not even bothering to muster a reply.

A couple of minutes passed in peaceful silence before you broke it once again. "You were acting weird today," you remarked, your tone tinged with curiosity.

"What do you mean?" she asked calmly, her voice a little raspy from not having spoken for a while.

"I don't know, your energy just felt off," you explained. "You seemed somewhat uncomfortable when Lottie and you coincidentally named my song at the same time."

Her eyes slowly fluttered open at your words, unsure of how to respond. She gazed up at the twinkling stars, momentarily losing herself in their beauty.

"That's quite a specific observation," she chuckled lightly.

You joined in with a soft laugh. "I guess I just noticed." You started, "Whenever the three of us are together, you seem to grow tense, but I can't really explain it," you continued. "Did you and Lottie have a fight or something?"

"No, it's not that..." she replied, her voice laced with uncertainty.

"Then what is it?" you pressed, looking for an answer.

"I don't know," she replied, her voice uncertain. "I guess she's always talking about you and wanting to be around you," she trailed off.

"But we're best friends, isn't that normal?" you asked, genuinely puzzled.

"Well, yeah, but she's annoying about it," she continued, frustration creeping into her voice. "She acts like she knows you better than anyone else, and-"

You interrupted her. "So you're jealous," you said, a playful smile forming on your lips.

"What? No," she replied incredulously, chuckling nervously.

"Mhm," you teased.

"I am not jealous," she insisted, her voice firm.

"Then why are you blushing?" you asked, turning to look at her and noticing a faint red hue on her cheeks.

"What?" she exclaimed, her hand instinctively reaching up to touch her flushed cheeks. Realizing how warm they felt, she abruptly stopped floating and stood still, swiftly moving her hand and splashing water onto your face.

"Hey!" you exclaimed, water rushing up your nose. Coughing lightly, you stood up and retaliated by splashing water back at her. Anticipating your comeback, she quickly covered her face, but you managed to splash water at her again.

Laughter erupted from both of you as you continued wrestling in the water, playfully throwing water at each other. She reached for your arms to halt your assault, but you surprised her by submerging her head underwater briefly before releasing her.

"You little...," she laughed, coughing and rubbing her nose with her hand.

Seeking revenge, she pulled you closer, causing your legs to instinctively wrap around her as her hands gripped your waist tightly, and she sank the both of you beneath the water's surface. After a few seconds, your need for air grew too strong, and you began pushing her shoulder, signalling for her to surface, which she did.

With your legs still secured around her waist, you used your hands to push your wet hair back and rub your eyes. As your vision cleared, you rested your hands on her shoulders and suddenly realized how close you were. Your legs held tight, and you felt the lingering touch of her left hand on your body as she rubbed her eyes and nose with her other hand. When she finished, she met your gaze, slowly placing her hand back on your waist.

Both of you locked eyes, your breaths and heartbeats increasing in sync. The suppressed thoughts and desires you had kept hidden for so long began resurfacing, and this time, you made no attempt to suppress them. Her intense gaze lingered on you, her eyebrows slightly furrowed, her dilated pupils captivated you with each flutter of her wet eyelashes, and her half-open, moist lips tingled with anticipation. Fuck it, you thought. Without a second thought, you swiftly pressed your lips together in a passionate kiss, leaving no room to breathe. It was a slow and fervent kiss, conveying the depth of your longing and how much you had yearned for this moment, for her. Your hands traveled from her shoulders to her hair, while your lips captured her bottom lip, gently sucking on it. She loosened her grip and instead embraced you, pulling you closer against her body, craving the warmth of your body against hers. Reasserting her dominance, she lightly nibbled on your lip, silently asking for entrance. It only took a slight pressure of her centre against yours under the water for your mouth to part slightly, allowing her agile tongue to explore your mouth as you let out a groan. 

Your lips continued their rhythmic movements, growing plump and red, pulsating with a delightful ache, while your lungs screamed for much-needed air. Finally, the two of you reluctantly broke apart, the silence broken by your words.

"Fuck... You don’t know how much I've missed this," you confessed, locking eyes with her, your fingers tenderly caressing the nape of her neck.

"Me too," she breathed, her gaze fixated on your lips. Her hands moved from your waist to your cheeks, gently cupping them as she pulled you into another kiss, this time filled with tenderness and love. You wrapped your arms around her neck, drawing her closer, fully immersing yourself in the moment.

She pulled back slightly, her breath caressing your lips. "I'm so fucking jealous of Lottie," she admitted with a raspy voice. "She makes me so mad," she confessed, before capturing your lips in another soft kiss, laced with a hint of frustration. "I hate it when she makes you laugh," she murmured between kisses, "And I hate that she's always following you around like a lost puppy." She gave you one last kiss before pulling away, her face just a few centimeters away from yours, and using one of her thumbs to softly caress your swollen bottom lip.

Her words left you puzzled, but deep down, they were everything you had ever longed to hear from her. Gathering your thoughts, you responded, "Well, you don't have to worry about that too much."

She slowly shifted her gaze from your lips to your eyes, her brows furrowing slightly as she stared at you with a perplexed expression.

"Because I love you," you confessed, causing Nat's heart to skip a beat at your unexpected declaration.

"What?" she stammered, her eyes searching yours for any signs of deceit.

"I love you, Nat," you repeated, your voice brimming with sincerity and honesty. "I've loved you for so long that I honestly don't know how I've kept it to myself all this time," you confessed. "I love you," you reiterated once more.

"Fuck, Y/n," Nat uttered, her face reflecting disbelief and astonishment. "I love you too," she finally said, unable to contain her emotions, before pulling you into another tender kiss. The two of you stood there, savoring each other's embrace, only illuminated by the soft glow of the pale moonlight.