#doesn't help that (a) the heat went out earlier and i had 2 call in an emergency technician

[aeide-thea]

usually when nef gets anxious abt weather noises i'm like 'aw bud it's okay!' but actually this time i'm like 'no i'm with you this wind is kinda scary :('

[betterthana-six]

| MUSIC TO MY EARS - [ABBY ANDERSON] - CHAPTER TWO |

PAIRINGS: stoic!rugby player abby x fem!reader

SUMMARY: you and your new(ish) roommate, Abby Anderson, have gotten into an argument. about what? unclear at the moment. but it's got Abby in a fit of shame. until late one night she hears you outside with someone whose voice she doesn't recognize and listens in.

WARNINGS: yall. whats up. let me know if you like it pffffft. this is definitely a slow burn, but lots of pining, yearning, and, yes, smut to come. TRUST. so, mdni. there are a lot of flashbacks between now and when they met so we get the full story eventually. this is more of a light hearted story but it does deal with coming to terms with sexuality (and who best to help you along that journey but rugby playing and stoic Abby Anderson?). anyways, i hope that the five people who might read this like it.

Chapter 1 | Chapter 2

Music To My Ears: Chapter 2

.・✫・゜・。..・✫・゜・。..・✫・゜・。.

Without a plan for what to say nor a thread of rationality, Abby swings the door open. She half-expects you to fall back on her feet when she does it, but you are nowhere to be found. Only in your absence does she realize how hard her heart is pounding.

She takes a beat, feeling dumb in surprise. In all of the heat of her anticipation, Abby must have waited too long. Too late, she realizes. 

To the left, she peers into an empty hallway. The overhead lighting forces her eyes closed. The walls are covered in paper flowers where students wrote their plans for Spring break in permanent marker. 

To the right, Abby sees a group of people she somewhat recognizes all crisscrossed on the floor, encircling and packing what she presumes to be joints. Spearheading them is her friend, a fellow rugby player, who sees Abby and playfully lifts a joint in the air, gesturing an invitation.

Abby closes the door gently behind her and walks over.

“Care to join? We’re going to the balcony once we’re done here,” her friend says. Abby just looks over her shoulder.

“Nah. Nah, I’m good. Hey, did you guys see anyone out here a minute ago?” Abby asks.

“If you’re looking for your roommate, pretty sure she went to the bathroom. She wasn’t looking too hot.”

“What did you see?” Abby nearly hisses. 

The friend raises their hands up in the air so as to claim innocence. “Shit, man, I don’t know. I think her date went bad or something.”

By the time the friend stops talking, Abby has already turned the other way, headed straight for the bathrooms, mumbling a vacant ‘thanks’. 

She peers around the corner and slowly pushes the door in to listen for movement. All the lights are on. The motion sensors had been activated, which is strange considering the floor is usually dead at this hour.

The bathroom stalls are empty but there’s a shower going. 

Abby calls your name faintly but gets no answer. She walks closer to the sound of running water, and through it, a distant voice singing. 

“More than a feelinnnnnnnnnn’, more than a feelin’, when I hear that old song they used to- more than woaaah woahhh’, I begin dreaminnnnnnn…’”

Abby’s heart settles a bit as she walks down the white, linoleum hall. She calls your name again.

The singing stops abruptly but someone sniffles.

“What-uh?” You call out. It is the perfect sound to Abby. A sound she’d grown accustomed to hearing whenever she pissed you off. She doesn’t have to guess for a second that it’s you. And, the exaggerated “-uh” you added to your words when she teased you only confirmed it.  

“I didn’t know there was a concert going on. I would’ve come earlier.”

You stay silent, knitting your brow.

She knocks on the tiles outside your stall. “It’s Abby.”

“Abby… Abby… what can I do for you, Abby?” You ask, your voice illuminated drunkenly as you roll her name over in your mouth. 

She laughs. “Um, are you decent?”

“Are you decent?” 

“Okay, princess,” Abby says a bit more sternly now. “I’m trying to make sure you don’t drown. Either by vodka or the shower. Now, can I, please?”

“Come in, come in.” Abby draws the curtains open to see you finally. She hides a smile and adjusts to the sight before her. She can feel her heart swell a bit. Your legs are sprawled out on the floor, heels still on. That can’t be comfortable. She sees the redness around your ankles. There’s mascara running down your face and not an inch of you is dry. You’re wearing your special occasion maroon dress, as Abby suspected, which now clings to your body with the weight of the water that drenches you completely. Abby has to avert her eyes. She knows you’d never let her see you like this if you were sober. “Hey, crib. Welcome to my MTV,” you say.

Then Abby sees the flask in your hand.

“Alright, hand it over,” Abby says. She kneels down to you with an open hand.

“Hand what over?” You smile big and clutch the flask closer to your body. “I’ve never realized how big your hands are,” you lie. Deflect.

You have Abby. Just like that. Her ears bent to every one of your words and her entire body enslaved to your stare. She is taken aback from how much you affect her. 

She feels it in her stomach. 

Your lips are full and dark, stained vibrantly with some berry. Maybe wine, she thought. You look up at her now, with that full deep smile, and Abby forgets for a moment that you were ever crying on the floor outside your room. 

You look acutely into Abby’s eyes, testing her. 

“Princess…” She elongates the word, staring at you. “Come on, now.”

“Alright, alright,” you concede. You take another swig and give in, handing Abby the flask. “Those damn puppy dog eyes.” 

Abby laughs. She smells the flask and grimaces a bit. She turns the shower handle until the water no longer flows.

“Bad night?”

“Best night of my life.”

“It sounded pretty grim.” She shoots you a knowing look. 

“Shit, how much did you hear?”

“Enough,” Abby says, looking at the floor. She’s almost skittish. “Enough to understand why you’re laying underneath a running shower at almost midnight. I mean, shit, you were right outside the door. It was kind of hard not to listen in.”

“Okay, fuck you very much,” you laugh. “I figured you were asleep.”

“I pretended to be,” she admits with a guilty smile.

You scoff. 

“Well,” Abby says. “I’m glad you have a sense of humor about it now.”

“Yeah,” you hiccup. “Totally hilarious. God, I look fucking pathetic.”

“You look fine,” she says, looking you over, slowly making way up to your eyes. When she gets there, she can’t read your face.

“I don’t want to talk about it. So, don’t ask.”

She nods her head like it was the simplest thing. 

“Let’s go,” Abby says. 

She reaches a hand out to you. You lean into her for stability, soaking her clothes with your own wet mess, but Abby doesn’t shy away from it. Rather, she grabs your waist and puts your arm around her shoulder, squeezing you tight and concentrating ahead to ensure a clear path.

You, however, are looking up at Abby, though her gaze is fixed elsewhere. 

In her arms, you feel like you’re floating. There might as well be a halo of stars swirling above your head. Your legs trail a bit behind hers as she guides you down the bathroom hall. Suddenly, it’s all so incredibly simple. Or, perhaps, all the happiness vodka afforded you is working its magic tenfold, pulsating a warm thrill through your body. It overwhelms you in a dreamy state of mindlessness. You stare at the sharpness of her cheekbones. Her mouth, downturned and focused. Her arms, her arms…

“Wow…” you whisper, eyes locked on her face, arms messily draped around her. Your nose is inches from her neck. Abby just grins.

“I somehow actually didn’t know,” she says, “you curse like a sailor when you’re drunk.”

“Yeah, well, there’s actually a lot you don’t actually know about me actually, so...” You boop her nose with your free hand and shine a wide, stupid smile at her.

.・✫・゜・。..・✫・゜・。..・✫・゜・。.

Once you get to your dorm room, Abby sits you down on her desk chair and covers you in one of her towels. She brings you her water bottle and nods to you, indicating a command: sip. 

The only light in the room is her desk lamp, and it shines a warm and dusky yellow onto your face so Abby can see your puffy eyes and wine stained mouth in clear view. Abby contains herself as best she can. This is not the first time she’s caught herself staring at you, far from it; she turns her head away when you look up at her, keeping her composure, as always. 

She takes a small rag and starts dabbing the makeup running down your face. 

A sudden pang of guilt permeates your floating feeling. It sobers you up a bit, letting in the very feelings you were trying to avoid. As quickly as you were starry-eyed, swept up in Abby’s hold, you are washed over in a wave of grief, a twinge of pain piercing your heart.

“I’m sorry,” you say, straining your voice. “I’m a mess.”

“Don’t worry about it, seriously.”  Her eyes focused everywhere but yours. She continues to dab your cheeks softly.

You huff, tears threatening to make their way out. You hiccup and take another sip. “I don’t want to go to bed,” you say. “Not yet.”

“That’s fine,” Abby says. She kneels at your feet now, unbuckling the tiny straps of your shoes delicately. “You don’t have to do anything you don’t-”

“Abby, please, can you look at me?” 

The question came out more impatient and whiney than you planned. But Abby obliged, her hand resting on your ankle. 

“Abby,” you say, shaking your head in defeat. “Abby, I screwed everything up tonight.”

“You didn’t screw anything up.”

“I did,” you insist. You place your hand on her face and she stays still, afraid to move or even breathe.

Then, Abby sighs, her eyes soft. “We can talk about it in the morning. I’m sure everything’s fine,” Abby says lightly, smiling at you.

She goes back to taking your shoes off.

“You were right about me, Abby,” you whisper. She looks up at you again and you don’t break eye contact. You tell her everything in those few words. You repeat, “You were right.”

Now, Abby stops what she’s doing and looks up. You see her in full. The light from behind consumes her in a shadow but it strengthens her definition and the fine edges of her face. 

She moves her hand and clasps your wrist, the wrist that cups her own cheek. 

She takes in your serious look and returns it with softness. 

Finally, black tears come spilling down your face, but you don’t necessarily sob. You don’t close your eyes or keel over on the floor. Instead, your face is resolute and still, as though you are simply lost in thought. Eyes on Abby but somewhere else entirely.

“Hey,” Abby says. She instinctively pulls you in. “It’s okay.” Her arms wrap around your body, sheltering you with her own. She breathes you in, holding you tight while tears fall down your face and onto her shoulders. “It’s okay.”

You succumb to her embrace and let your body go a little limp. It’s a warmth you haven’t experienced in years. The room is spinning; you can’t tell if it’s from the alcohol or the catharsis of being held by her. Either way, you breathe deep and shiver on the exhale, and, as if responding to you, Abby squeezes tighter. There’s no sense of urgency from Abby to end this embrace. It could go on forever, and you both would let it. 

It was clear. 

This is what it felt like to surrender to yourself, your burning heart linked inarguably to the fire in Abby’s. Pressed against each other like old friends, finally reuniting after being apart for too long, in an act of true intimacy. 

All of the tension and anxiety you felt around her these last few months dissipates. You can’t even remember why it was really there to begin with. You tilt your head into her, smelling her, digging your face into her neck like a child.

When finally you pull back, Abby looks at you as if seeing you for the first time again. As if her eyes were divinely predisposed to not simply look at you but really see you.

.・✫・゜・。..・✫・゜・。..・✫・゜・。.

This wasn’t a new sensation for Abby. 

It had even become somewhat of a mindfulness practice to contain herself around you, if anything, which was a problem she’d never experienced before. 

If December Abby could watch tonight’s spectacle, the irritated way she eavesdropped and the tenderness when she touched you, she would likely be mystified by this soft version of herself.

Her December self was far more regimented. Disciplined. Focused. 

Especially during season, Abby had to excel.

You do what you need to do to get it done. Keep your head down. Study hard, lift harder.

This was her mindset, philosophy, way of life. Whatever you want to call it, she navigated it with steadfast conviction. 

Her days were filled with routine. She woke up early and headed to the gym. Her protein shake waited in her bag after an hour or two of conditioning and her fifteen minute ice bath. She showered, and then she was onto her classes. Rugby practice lasted until early evenings most days. Then it was dinner and bed. 

Weekends were almost her own; she spent most of her hours reading.

Distractions did come every so often in the form of girls. Who doesn’t need to be a little distracted sometimes? 

They come and go. It’s never anything really serious. Abby had made peace with that. She preferred it, actually.

Abby wasn’t the type to force anything.

Her outlook was that if it was meant to happen, it would. She let it all fall into her lap. 

Just like Gillian did, and Ally. And Mara.

She’d been told by her teammates that that’s what makes her “quite the magnet”. Girls always like the quiet thing, a friend once said, someone fierce on the field and tender in bed. Talented in both areas.

All of that, Abby very much knew, was a tad disingenuous on her end. She just wasn’t invested, so naturally there wasn’t much for her to say. 

Get her laughing with an old friend, though, or anyone she’s really comfortable with, maybe when she’s drunk, and she becomes a talker. All silly and red in the face from giggling. It didn’t happen too often. 

So, at first, it didn’t cross her mind to be concerned with you. You two would be good roommates, she thought. Maybe friends, if it happened naturally. 

That was her rationale talking. Shower thoughts crammed her head not so long after she found you perusing her rugby trophies. She involuntarily assembled every view of you that she got from that brief introduction. 

Abby pictured your cheeks and nose. They were still pink after coming in from the cold. And your hair was pulled back with strands windswept messily over your face. You looked like a storybook character, someone totally imagined, pulled from the page into real life. 

And, there was something in the way you squirmed at the sight of her body. How your breath hitched when she bared her chest to you. It made something so completely obvious to her, but you seemed oblivious to it.

She couldn’t help but smile to herself like a fool while she thought it over. For fuck’s sake, Abby was grinning each time she turned away from you. She grinned all the way down the hallway on her walk to the showers.

You were intriguing to Abby. Undoubtedly. 

.・✫・゜・。..・✫・゜・。..・✫・゜・。.

When she got back, you were sat down on the floor unpacking your clothes into small, wooden drawers.

Abby had her towel wrapped around her whole body.  She nodded to you as a short re-greeting and searched through her closet. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw a guitar case. She noted the stickers on it - some obscure bands, some random abstract art.

“You play?” She asked. 

You looked up to what she was pointing at.

“I’m studying classical guitar.”

“Cool,” Abby responded absently. “You sing?”

“Uh, to myself. In the shower. Sometimes.”

“I’ll have to stop by for a concert.”

You laughed, shaking your head. 

“What about you? What do you study?” You forced out. You knew you sucked at small talk, and, god, you were so fucking awkward it killed you sometimes. The words came out like sludge. Abby didn’t seem to notice, or, if she did, she didn’t let on.

“Marine biology,” she answered. “Actually, it’s ichthyology. I study fish.”

“Marine biology sounds way cooler.”

“Yeah. That’s what I usually tell people. Makes it seem like I don’t just stand around all day hunched over a microscope. People tend to envision me in a scuba suit taking photos of massive animals, like, a hundred feet deep in the ocean, so I let them.”

“I’m still impressed,” you said. “I was never good at science, but I love aquariums.”

“I love aquariums,” she agreed, earnestly. 

You both looked up at each other then.

You were about to say something else, but Abby started drying herself off, revealing her body, muscular and lightly tan.

“Oh,” you blurted and turned sharply away from her. “I- sorry.”

Abby laughed, and asked, “Am I offending you?”

“No, no. Sorry. I didn’t realize you were doing that. I’m good, though. Let me know when you’re done.”

“I mean, we’re gonna be roommates ‘til June. This might be something you have to get over.”

“Yeah! No, I know,” you trip over yourself trying to explain. “You’re very…comfortable… being naked in front of strangers. I wasn’t expecting it.”

She chuckled at that. “I didn’t know I was in the presence of royalty.”

“That’s not what I’m saying.”

“You’re squeamish,” Abby pointed out. “You’ve never had a roommate before.” 

She literally pointed her finger out at you, like she finally decided on your guilty verdict.

“Fine, you got me. My last dorm was a solo. I didn’t want you to think I’m some creep, okay? We met, like, an hour ago.”

Your voice went all high-pitched in a way you could never control when interrogated.

Abby stayed quiet for a moment, letting your words sit in the air as she grinned to herself and wrung out her hair.

“I definitely don’t think you’re a creep,” she said eventually. “A bit innocent, maybe…”

“I’m not in- ” You snapped, whipping your head around. 

Abby stood tall and relaxed staring at you. She was fully clothed now, wearing a tight shirt and sweats. Her arms were bulging from the sleeves. 

Something about her demeanor was sweet though, even with her “who me?” face. She wasn’t trying to be mean.

“Sorry, sorry,” Abby said. “You’re just very polite is all. Like a princess.” 

You felt your face get hot. You turned away from her again and went back to organizing your stuff. Abby plopped on her bed indifferently and cracked open her book. 

.・✫・゜・。..・✫・゜・。..・✫・゜・。.

An hour passed in complete silence. You worked away, slowly unraveling your belongings into neat separate storage units. 

You thought about calling your mom. No. How many times will it take for you to remember that she only makes you feel worse? There was really no one else to call then. It’s fine, you reasoned. You understood well by now that self-reliance had its growing pains.

Every once and a while you snuck a quick glance at Abby. You didn’t mean to, of course. It was more to see what she was reading. You couldn’t look too long. It was almost like she knew exactly when you were doing it, like she could feel your eyes on her, and she would instinctively catch you in the act, only to recoil nonchalantly in her book as soon as she spotted you.

Eventually, you stood up on your bed to string fairy lights across the ceiling and stick your posters on the wall.

“Is that Janis Ian?” Abby asked, breaking the silence and startling you. You turned around. Abby’s face peaked above her book. You looked back at the poster. 

“You know Janis Ian?”

“I think…” Abby says thoughtfully. And then she sang in a quick and quiet mumble, “I learned the truth at seventeen, that love was meant for beauty queens… right?”

You couldn’t help but beam a bit as you nodded a hesitant ‘yes’. She really didn’t look the type to start singing Janis Ian. 

You turned to stick another poster up when Abby laughed aloud. 

“What?”

“No, nothing, nothing,” she said, concealing a smile and hiding her head behind her book again. 

You cocked your head at her. “What?”

“Nothing. I just didn’t realize that you were a 60 year old lesbian.”

The light on your face suddenly went dim. You scoffed and looked up at your wall. You had stuck a pink 1994 tour poster with the Indigo Girls posed casually on it.  

“They’re all really great guitarists,” you said, plainly. “I grew up with their music.”

“You don’t have to defend yourself to me,” Abby said. 

“They just happen to all be old lesbians, it doesn’t mean that I am one.”

“I’m not judging,” She said, and threw up her hands. “I fuck with it, really. Old school gay vibes. That’s awesome.”

“I’m not- ” You said, raising your eyebrows at her. “I’m not.”

“Okay,” Abby said. She was agreeing with you. Truthfully enough on paper, but you still couldn’t tell if she was fucking with you. “I got it.”

Abby tried to decipher something in your face, but you shot her a chiding stare and dropped down from your bed.  

“I’m going for a walk.” 

You felt Abby’s eyes following you as you left. 

You walked around your dorm floor aimlessly until you reached an exit. It was the post-dinner lull of the night where some students were already in bed and some were already out.

Right or left, it didn’t matter where you went. You had no real idea of where you were anyways. All memories of touring the place weeks ago had flown from your head as soon as they’d entered. The ‘where’ of your transfer wasn’t the point at the time.

It didn’t matter. You walked to a bench a few blocks down and pulled out your pack of cigarettes. You only had them because they looked cool but always felt a little stupid every time you smoked one. They also came in handy when you needed one. Which you did.

You couldn’t put words to exactly what was bothering you about her. 

She hadn’t said anything outright offensive. She was joking around.

Abby just seemed like someone who thought she knew everything about everything and everyone. Yes, that’s what it was. She was too confident in her own intellect. And far too proud of her body. It annoyed you. And, you weren’t looking for friends who put you on edge anymore. You weren’t interested in being tested.

Abby knew she was testing you, however clueless an act she put on for you. 

It wasn’t something she did often. Not with strangers. At the very least not when she was sober. 

It was something drunk Abby does at parties. The drinks go directly to her head thus emerging a butch Casanova who shamelessly flirts with straight girls. 

“Straight.” 

Not that the goal was to hook up with them necessarily. The thing is, Abby just had a little theory that everyone’s a little gay. Some people just try to hide it, if they can help it. And many people can succeed for a while. Unless the closet door were to be cracked ajar by an innocent, drunken conversation or two…

“Are all the rugby team fucking each other?” They’d ask. “Be honest.”

To which she’d respond: “Why, are you trying to join?”

Or, something like that.

She didn’t know why it was coming out around you on a random Monday evening. She felt weirdly invigorated.

You so quickly became imperative to her, though she tried to refrain from taking the feeling seriously. She couldn’t explain it to herself well enough, but it felt as though something new was beginning.

Everything about your demeanor said you wore your heart on your sleeve yet you acted like a closed book. It was obvious in the way you spoke, like you had some secret to hide and were aching to scream it. And there was something to your features. Starkly beautiful, that was obvious to Abby, but it was more than that. She felt she needed to see your face again and again to remember the details. Even in two conversations, she felt an urge to fix her gaze on you repeatedly. 

.・✫・゜・。..・✫・゜・。..・✫・゜・。.

She feels the very same thing now. The absolutely fatal desire to look and look and look at you until she was acquainted with every feature.

Even with bitter sadness written across your face, you are gorgeous. 

The light grazes your skin. Your hair still drips small water beads, and tears fall from the corners of your eyes like diamonds. You shake slightly in her arms.

You pull away, inches from Abby, breathing in her air. 

“I don’t want to go to bed yet…” You say again, and the only thing you can hear is her breath and the buzzing in your ears.

Your faces are just inches away from one another. Abby’s blood pumps so hard she thinks you can hear it. 

You tilt your head up to hers, lost in a trance. 

How wonderful it would be, Abby thinks, to take your face in my hands and kiss you.

She wants to. God, and she’s wanted to. For longer than she’s willing to admit. But she retreats.

You look up at her with hungry, eager eyes. 

Abby clears her throat.

“So, let’s not,” she says. You snap out of it. Your hungry eyes turn confused. Abby’s face changes per something that dawned on her. 

“Let’s not go to bed, princess,” Abby says and grabs your hand. “I have an idea.”

Chapter 3

Comment if you want to be on this story's taglist!

Tag babies: @soupycloud @femme-historian @ichokedonmyoreo @paleidiot

.・✫・゜・。..・✫・゜・。..・✫・゜・。.

[shiraki-yurara]

On-Screen Lovers Part 2 Story Event - Hitaki - Chapter 3 - Sweet End

Disclaimer: Morganatic Idol belongs to CYBIRD & ABC Frontier, Inc.

My Notes: Translation is for entertainment purpose only. Translation may or may not be correct. Please ignore any grammar mistakes.

Hitaki: Would you like to have a "home date" with me now?

After hearing that, I was urged back to the apartment-----

---

Rina: Are we going on a date here?

Hitaki: There's a scene where she cooks a meal for me, so I wanted to recreate that as well.

Hitaki: You often cook here, right? I don’t think it will be difficult for you.

Rina: But as far as acting goes, didn't you get the hang of it on our date earlier?

Hitaki: I think it would be safer to have a deeper understanding of that.

When Hitaki-san said that, I was at a loss for words.

(I wonder if I can make something that suits his taste…… But since I said “I'd do anything”, it would be hard to refuse.)

Rina: I understand. Then, I’ll make something.

It was nearly dinner time so I decided to make cheese risotto.

Hitaki: Oh, you use a skillet?

Rina: It requires less washing up and is surprisingly easy to do.

After cutting all the ingredients, I stirred fry them all at once in a skillet.

It was a task I was used to, but having Hitaki-san watching me made me feel a bit nervous.

Hitaki: Fufu, is it hard to do when I'm watching?

Rina: Er,err.

Hitaki: That's right. Since I’m here, why don't I help you?

Rina: Eh?

Hitaki: Because that kind of thing really sounds like a "home date", right?

Hitaki-san quickly walked into the kitchen and stood next to me.

Hitaki: That said, there doesn't seem to be much I can do. I'll make a salad.

Rina: Are you sure?

Hitaki: It's okay. I can do that much too.

As he said this, his movements while cutting the vegetables were so smooth, it even seemed graceful.

(Hitaki-san can do anything with ease.)

Hitaki: Why are you looking at me so much? Your hands have stopped moving.

Rina: ……I’m sorry.

My heart leaped at the sweet, whispering voice, and I hurriedly resumed my work.

(Then mix the tomatoes, cheese, and rice……)

Once I had finished seasoning, all I had to do was heat it until the cheese melted.

By the time the timer was set, Hitaki-san had finished making the salad.

Hitaki: The only thing left is the dressing. I think we had wine vinegar……

Rina: Ah, you need a bowl.

When I handed Hitaki-san the bowl and whisk, he smiled and said, "Thank you."

The brightness of it took my breath away, and at the same time, I found myself tickled.

(Even though cooking together is not something we normally do. This feels as if we were……)

"Like a real couple" was the phrase that came to mind.

(I……, what am I thinking? Ever since we went to the city, I've been thinking too much.)

The moment I took a deep breath to calm myself down-----

Hitaki: Cooking side by side like this, we're just like a real couple, right?

Rina: ……!

Hitaki: Oh, you thought so too? It's written all over your face.

Rina: ……Yes, I did.

(Wh, why did I reply honestly!? This is so embarrassing……)

I looked away and tried to smile deceptively.

Rina: But……, at first I thought I wouldn't be able to be Hitaki-san's partner.

Rina: So, even if it's just pretend, I'm relieved that I was able to fulfill the role as your girlfriend.

Hitaki: …………

Rina: ……Hitaki-san?

I timidly called out to Hitaki-san, who had fallen silent.

Then-----

Hitaki: Do you feel inferior to me since I am an idol?

Rina: Eh?

Hitaki: I value you regardless of your position.

Hitaki: You’re considerate and hardworking. You’re the kind of person who can do things properly.

Hitaki-san stopped what he was doing and looked at me quietly.

Hitaki: At the city, you suggested the fruit candy and even paid attention to the escape scene……

Hitaki: I was surprised to learn that you even scouted locations.

Hitaki: It was very entertaining and I never got bored because you did unexpected things.

Rina: That, that’s too much praise.

I instinctively shook my head and Hitaki-san slightly raised the corner of his mouth.

Hitaki: Really? I'm just telling you my honest feelings.

Hitaki: And…… I'm sure you worked hard today to prepare for your role.

Hitaki: For my part, I wish you were more conscious of me.

Rina: Eh……!?

His suggestive words made my heart skip a beat for a moment.

(What did you mean by that?)

(It's like…… It's like he's saying he wants to be my real boyfriend.)

My heart was pounding rapidly and I unconsciously put my hand on my chest to calm it down.

Rina: Err, you’re teasing me again, right?

I asked, remembering the night I first heard about the movie.

Hitaki: Ah, you mean when I got you backed up against the wall?

Hitaki: It’s true that I did that because I wanted to see how you would react, but……

Hitaki: For this time, I wonder. Which do you think it is?

Hitaki-san smiled sweetly and reached out to touch my cheek.

I almost squealed at the feel of his smooth stroking.

Rina: ……

Hitaki: You look so cute confused like that. Let me see more……

The moment Hitaki-san's face came closer and I was captivated by his bewitching eyes.

Pipipipipi!

Rina: Ah!

The sound of the timer ringing brought me back to myself, and I instantly moved.

I quickly turned off the sound and before I knew it, he was back to normal.

Hitaki: Looks like it's done. Let's eat it then.

Rina: Ye, yes.

We quickly got the food ready and sat facing each other.

When I took a bite, a gentle flavor spread throughout my mouth.

Hitaki: Yes, it's delicious. It's such a shame that it's only for today.

Rina: That's an exaggeration. But I'm glad you enjoyed it.

Hitaki: So, will you continue to make them occasionally from now on?

The gentle smile reminded me of our earlier conversation, and I nearly fell victim to the illusion again.

Rina: ……Does that mean you want us to practice roles again?

When I asked for confirmation, Hitaki-san smiled and frowned slightly.

Hitaki: Now, no matter what I said, you will connect it to the movie.

Hitaki: If that's the case, that's fine. I'd be happy to have more contact with you, even if just for the duration of the filming.

Rina: Eh……

Hitaki-san's eyes were full of love as he looked at me.

(Just looking at it makes my heart race……)

In the first place, it was impossible not to be conscious of him-----

(Because I'm so happy to hear what you just said.)

As I continued to eat, I silently envisioned a future with him in the back of my mind.

[ga-yuu]

Yoritomo & Yoshitsune - Chapter 7

----Part 1----

Yoritomo: "Yoshino, can I ask you to help me?"

Yoshino: "Of course."

Just then Yoshitsune-sama turned to look at the both of us.

Yoshitsune: "....Wait. Yoshino, are going to do the same thing you did to me, to my brother?"

Yoritomo: "What's wrong?"

Yoshitsune: "----No. Nothing."

(....The last time, when I was taking care of Yoshitsune-sama, my body felt strange)

Because of my connection to heroes might, as the eight-headed serpent calls it.

I recall that every time I absorbed his power, my body temperature went up.

(But it was an emergency...)

Yoshitsune: "It would be better if you both are out of sight. Hurry up, you two, get inside the tent."

..............

After parting ways with Yoshitsune-sama, I and Yoritomo-sama entered the tent.

Yoshino: "I'm about to do it, please relax."

Yoritomo: "----Okay."

Yoritomo-sama, who sat without a trace of hesitation, looked much more overwhelmed than he appeared.

(...He has a strong will power)

Yoshino: "Okay then."

I placed my palm on Yoritomo-sama's chest and concentrated.

Yoritomo: "Nn..."

(I feel...hot)

Even Yoritomo-sama moans faintly as he feels the heat in my palm.

Yoritomo: "Wai...Wait."

Yoshino: ".....Please bear with me."

A sweet tingle builds up in my lower belly, although I was prepared for it.

(Even though it's my second time, I'm still not used to it)

Yoritomo: "Mm....so this is what Yoshitsune meant earlier."

Yoritomo: "Ah...damn. I totally get it."

Yoshino: "I-It feels weird, huh?"

(Yoritomo-sama's impassioned expression is very rare....)

Yoritomo: "Mm.."

Yoshino: "This is important, so we have to bear with it."

Yoritomo: "...Yeah."

My heart skipped a beat when he suddenly grabbed my wrist which was on his chest.

(...!)

He pulled me and hugged my body and my face rests on his chest.

Yoshino: "Yoritomo-sama!?"

Yoritomo: "...Keep going."

A somewhat sweet murmur hits my ear.

Yoritomo: "This way---we won't be able to see each other's faces."

Yoshino: "Yeah, but..."

(Actually, I'm even more embarrassed)

(And this position doesn't help at all...)

The overlapping heartbeats are extraordinarily fast and I can no longer tell which one is which.

When I had no choice but to concentrate on absorbing the power, every touch made my body temperature go up.

Yoritomo: "Ahh..."

(Mm...)

Yoritomo-sama slowly raises himself, while still holding me.

The eyes, misty with heat, have not yet lost their usual strong light.

Yoritomo: "Haa...enough."

Yoritomo: "I feel much better now."

Yoshino: "....Yes."

(I haven't seen Yoritomo-sama's face yet...)

I stood up and fidgeted cooling the fire in my body.

Yoshino: "If anything happens after this, please don't hesitate to call me."

Yoritomo: "Yeah...also Yoshino."

When I was about to leave, Yoritomo called me suddenly.

(Hm?)

Yoritomo: "You help me, so---"

Yoritomo: "Thank you."

I looked back at Yoritomo-sama who smiled gently.

Yoshino: "You don't have to, it's my job."

Yoritomo: "Not only for that....but also for Yoshitsune."

----Part 2----

Yoritomo: "Not only for that....but also for Yoshitsune."

Yoritomo: "Because I couldn't earlier. So I wanted to do it now."

(Yoritomo-sama...)

(Perhaps it was Yoritomo-sama's own shyness that prevented him from thanking me in front of Yoshitsune-sama)

Yoshino: "Fufu..you're welcome."

I smiled and bowed.

.........

A few days later....

(Finally, we're back to our normal routine again..of course, until the next corpse attack happens)

Back in Kamakura, I was out shopping in town for the first time in a long time.

Townspeople 1: "Have you heard? The rumors about the corpses."

Townspeople 2: "Yeah, it's scary."

I quietly pass by.

The stories about corpses had recently spread amongst the general public.

Townspeople 2: "But both Yoritomo-sama and Yoshitsune-sama are fighting, aren't they?"

Townspeople 1: "Yes, but...these days, I hear there are a lot of people who ask for God's help."

(Everyone is scared. I hope these trials end soon)

As I think about that----

Shigehira: "Yoshino-san!"

Yoichi: "What's wrong with your face?"

Someone suddenly called me from behind.

Yoshino: 'Shigehira-kun, Yoichi-san!"

(I can't believe these two are together)

Yasuchika: "Such an unusual duo, isn't it?"

(Ah, Yasuchika-san!)

Yasuchika-san appeared from the nearby store.

Yasuchika: "But it's good! Since they're enemies, I thought it would be a good idea to make them my minions."

Yasuchika: "Minions...?"

Yasuchika: "Yeah, I wanted to go out and buy a few things, so I begged them to help with the luggage."

Yoichi: "Begged? When did you beg?"

Shigehira: "He forcibly dragged us out...If I had known Yoichi-san would also be coming, I would have avoided it at all costs."

Yasuchika: "Isn't shopping fun?"

Yasuchika-san listened to them with a big smile.

(So strong-minded...)

Yoshino: "So, what did you buy?"

Yasuchika: "Ah, some demon-related items and cursed scrolls."

Shigehira: "Wait...you mean these vases and paintings are dangerous?"

Yoichi: "..............Ugh, let's just throw it away and go home."

Yoichi-san quickly shoved the bag he was holding at Shigehira-kun.

Shigehira: "Hey! Hey!!"

Yoshino: "There..there.."

Yasuchika: "Now now, fighting is not good."

(I don't understand what Yasuchika-san is talking)

Yasuchika: "Look, learn something from those two?"

Yoshino: "Who?"

Everyone turned their eyes towards the direction Yasuchika pointed....

(Ah!)

Yoichi: "Is that Yoshitsune-sama?....and"

Shigehira: "Yoritomo-sama? Didn't he say that he had an inspection, today...."

Yoichi: "So he asked Yoshitsune-sama to accompany him? But why..?"

They both don't seem to notice us and were walking together.

Yoritomo: "Yoshitsune. Do you have any plans after this?"

Yoshitsune: "Training."

Yoritomo: "As expected."

Yoshitsune: "Yorito....brother, you should do the same. You're weaker than me."

Yoritomo: "You..."

(It really has become a much more relaxed atmosphere....)

Yoshitsune: "I think you should start from today."

Yoritomo-sama looks sideways at Yoshitsune-sama, who is looking down with a straight face and smirks at him.

Yoritomo: "---If you wanted to train with your Onii-chan, you should have come out and said so?"

Yoshitsune: "! In your dreams."

Yoshitsune-sama's voice shrank.

After thinking for a moment, he tilted his head.

Yoshitsune: ".......Will you train with me?"

Yoritomo: "...."

Yoritomo: "Don't ask me like that, idiot."

Yoritomo: "My god, you're so cut----ahem, so good at messing up with people's minds."

(Does Yoshitsune-sama become a bit more straightforward when he opens his heart....?)

(Hehe, after all, these brothers are so cute :))

Yoichi and Shigehira: ".............."

Next to me, I see both SHigehira-kun and Yoichi-san, their mouth open.

(I see. They don't know yet that the relationship between Yoritomo-sama and Yoshitsune-sama is changing)

Yasuchika: "Surprising, isn't it? I couldn't believe my eyes when I passed them in the hallway this morning."

----Part 3----

Yasuchika: "Surprising, isn't it? I couldn't believe my eyes when I passed them in the hallway this morning."

Yoritomo-sama and Yoshitsune-sama finally noticed us as they were passing by.

Yoshitsune: "...! Interesting. We have people from all three forces together."

Yoritomo: "What are you doing here, Yasuchika?'

(They saw us....)

Yasuchika: "Teehee."

Yoshitsune: "I'm not sure what you're up to...but please take care of Yoichi for me."

Yoichi: "Don't ask a stranger to do something for you."

Yoichi: "By the way, I'm the one taking care of his things, not the other way around."

Yoshitsune: "Yoichi is so mature and dependable."

Yoichi: "No, I didn't ask for that much praise...."

Yoshitsune: "I even like that about Yoichi."

Yoichi: "......"

(The power to charm people with praises...is so natural)

Shigehira: "..........................."

Yoritomo: "Don't sulk Shigehira. There are times when you're just as good as Yoichi."

Shigehira: ".......I can sense where this is going. Just so you know, I'm not expecting any praise at all!"

Yoritomo: "Like, you have the loudest mouth in all of Shogunate."

Shigehira: "I knew it! That's because I'm around people like you....!"

Yoritomo-sama laughs, perhaps satisfied with Shigehira-kun, who shouted in a particularly loud voice.

Yoshino: "Fufu..."

I giggled and my cheeks relax too.

Yoshitsune: *Blushing*

Yoshitsune: "Yoshino, you really do smile like a blooming flower."

Yoshitsune: "I had heard those expressions before, but I never thought I would one day use them myself."

(What are you saying with a serious face....)

Yoshino: "If I look like a flower, then it's a plain-looking flower or something, I'm sure."

(But come to think of it...maybe I haven't laughed heartily in front of Yoshitsune-sama very often)

(I was always concerned about his relationship with Yoritomo-sama)

Yoshitsune: "Plain?...for example?"

-----Options----

I don't know (Yoshitsune +4/ Yoritomo +2)

Dokudami?(Yoritomo +4/Yoshitsune+2)

----------

Yoshino: "I'm not quite sure."

Yoshitsune: "Well, as far as I'm concerned, you look like a bright, dainty-colored flower."

(What should I do? It's embarrassing enough to be praised...and Yoshitsune-sama has no malice intent)

Yoritomo: "Well, at best, we'll have to get used to Yoshitsune's crazy behavior."

Yoshitsune: "..........."

Yoshitsune-sama looked dissatisfied when he heard the word 'crazy'.

Yoshino: "Well. Even Yoritomo-sama has crazy behavior."

Yoritomo: "You think?"

(Hey!)

Yoritimo-sama ruffled my hair as if I were a kitten or a puppy.

Yoshino: "Hey, what are you doing?"

Yoritomo: "Cause you're so cheeky---Anyways, see you later."

Yoshitsune: "I would have liked to talk a bit more....but I'll see you later at the Palace."

Yoshitsune: "Of course! See you."

After seeing them walk away....

Shigehira: "What...how did it happen?"

Yoichi: "...Yeah, I mean I still can't get my head around it."

Yoichi-san whispered to himself.

Yoichi: "It reminds me of the old days."

Yoshino: "Yoichi-san...was a vassal of Yoshitsune-sama since he was under Yoritomo-sama, right?"

Yoichi: "Yup."

Yoichi: "So that's why......I hope the same thing doesn't happen again."

Yoichi-san's words stung me.

(It's only natural to worry)

(Because I think the relationship between those two people is still fragile, because they've only just come to terms with it)

...............

After Yoritomo-sama and Yoshitsune-sama parted ways with Yoshino and others....

They were walking along the road to the Imperial Palace training ground.

Yoshitsune: "....Yoshino attracts a lot of people."

Before turning the corner, Yoshitsune suddenly looks back as if reluctant to leave.

Yoritomo: "---Are you."

Yoritomo stopped and looked down at Yoshitsune.

Yoritomo: "If you're in love with her, I'll support you guys."

Yoshitsune: "Love....?"

Yoritomo: "......Are you unaware or just being possessive. Either way, it's going to be tricky."

-----Part 4-----

Yoritomo: "......Are you unaware or just being possessive. Either way, it's going to be tricky."

Yoshitsune frowns.

Yoshitsune: "Don't you like Yoshino too?"

Yoshitsune: "You've been around her for so long, how could you not know how attractive she is?"

Yoritomo: "Well..."

Yoritomo: "Of course, I do like her."

Yoritomo: "A dismaying positivity, a cleverness to get out of a tough situation....a pure, strong heart."

Yoshitsune: "Oh."

Yoritomo: "But that's not the same thing as a love affair. I'm the Seiitaishogun after all."

Yoritomo: "I'll never be able to give a woman the happiness she deserves."

Yoshitsune listened to Yoritomo's words with a somewhat unsettled expression.

.............

The next day....

(Hm? Why is it noisy outside?)

When I was in my room making medicines.

I hear someone approaching my room.

Yoritomo's vassal: "Yoshino-san, are you there? Please come quickly."

When I sensed the urgency in the voice, I immediately get up.

Yoshino: "What's wrong?"

I immediately opened the door and came out.

Yoritomo's vassal: "Come quick! Yoritomo-sama has been poisoned."

Yoshino: "Eh!?"

My mind went blank and I immediately rushed towards Yoritomo-sama's room with my medicine box.

Yoritomo's vassal: "Please go in! I'll be here to make sure no one enters."

Yoshino: "Yes! Please excuse me."

I entered the room without knocking and----

Yoshino: "Yoritomo-sama, are you okay?"

Yoritomo: "Oh, come in, Yoshino."

(Huh? He looks...fine...)

When I was looking at him anxiously, Yoritomo-sama greeted me calmly.

Yoshitsune: "Your patient is here."

Standing in the back of the room, Yoshitsune-sama calls me.

A man was lying unconscious beside him.

Yoritomo: "He is my poison taster. Just a few moments ago, he collapsed after eating a meal that was supposed to be served to me."

(Oh! I should have asked for the details before I rushed here)

Yoritomo: "We made him vomit right away, and gave him water to drink..."

Yoshino: "Okay, I get it. I will examine him immediately and formulate an antidote. I hope it works...."

Yoshitsune: "If we can help with anything, then please let us know."

Yoshino: "Thank you!"

After that----

The treatment was quick, and the poison taster's life was saved.

(Great....)

After seeing off the poison taster, who was taken to another room to rest...

Yoritomo: "You did well."

Yoshitsune: "You're such a reliable pharmacist."

Yoshino: "No, it was thanks to you two calling me right away, so we were able to save the man's life just in time."

Yoshitsune-sama's expression then turns cloudy.

Yoshitsune: "That said, we must quickly find out who tried to poison big brother as soon as possible."

Yoshino: "That's right."

(There is someone in this palace trying to harm Yoritomo-sama)

When the three of us looked at each other....

Suddenly there was a noise outside.

???: "Yoritomo-sama! Please excuse us....!"

(Woah)

A few soldiers entered the room with grim faces.

Yoritomo: "I thought I said no one is allowed to enter."

Yoritomo's vassal: "Please forgive me."

The vassal who called me, hurridly apologized.

Yoritomo's vassal 2: "We heard from the person who brought the poison taster to the other room, so we took the liberty of coming here."

Yoritomo's vassal 3: "You can punish us for our rude behavior! But first...."

They all looked at Yoshitsune.

(Eh....?)

Yoritomo's vassal: "Please let us arrest Yoshitsune-sama."

Yoritomo and Yoshitsune: "........"

----Part 5-----

Yoritomo's vassal: "Please let us arrest Yoshitsune-sama."

Yoritomo and Yoshitsune: "........"

Yoshino: "Wait!"

I raised my voice anxiously.

Yoshino: "Yoshitsune-sama even offered to help the patient. How could he be..."

Yoritomo's vassal 5: "It may have been an act of innocence."

(....Yoshitsune-sama is not someone who can do such a cowardly act)

(Above all, he would never take such an ungrateful means as poisoning)

(....But, I'm sure they won't listen to me)

Yoritomo: "I have already made peace with Yoshitsune and as we have been given the same heroic powers, we need to corporate with each other."

Yoritomo: "Yoshitsune has no reason to kill me."

Yoritomo's vassal 6: "But it's true that...Yoshitsune-sama hates Yoritomo-sama."

Yoritomo's vassal 6: "Three poisoning had taken place and the fallen man was the last in charge."

Yoritomo's vassal 6: "First in the kitchen, second in the middle of serving food, and third is in this room."

(The fact that the first and second-time plans didn't work out...)

Yoshino: "....In such a short time."

The vassals picked up my whispers.

Yoritomo's vassal 6: "We believe it was served in this room."

Yoshitsune: "---I see."

Yoshitsune: "The only three people in this room at them were Yoritomo, me, and the poison taster."

The vassals look away from Yoshitsune-sama, who stares at them without blinking as if they were under pressure....

One of them appealed in a trembling voice as if his loyalty to Yoritomo-sama had won out.

Yoritomo's vassal 1: "....Yoritomo-sama, I understand your faith in your brother."

Yoritomo's vassal 1: "But this is a matter of great importance for the Shogunate. Please, as you have done in the past, judge it impartially."

Yoritomo: "..............."

(This is not good)

From the outside, it certainly appears that Yoshitsune-sama had a motive and was capable of committing the crime.

Yoritomo: "We need to investigate the circumstances."

Yoritomo: "----Yoshitsune is not to leave his room until he is cleared of suspicion."

Yoshino: "No..."

Then we suddenly hear footsteps outside the room.

???: "Excuse me."

Yoichi: "Sorry to bother you at a busy time. But I'm here to defend our lord?"

(Yoichi-san!)

Although he is smiling, Yoichi-san's eyes are sharp.

Yoshitsune: "----Yoichi, why are you here?"

Yoichi: "While this was happening, in the meantime, I've been trying to keep an eye out for any notable developments within the Shogunate."

Yoichi: "Rumours about Yoritomo-kou's poisoning case are already spreading like a wildfire. There are many who are pointing their fingers toward Yoshitsune-sama."

Yoichi: "That's why I'm here on behalf of the vassals who believe in Yoshitsune-sama."

Yoritomo: "I see. My brother has excellent vassals."

Yoritomo's vassal 2: "Don't be selfish! Nasu no Yoichi. No matter how much former renegades like yourselves defend it...."

Yoichi: "Huh?'"

Yoichi-san's voice lowers and Yoritomo-sama's vassals cower at the sound of his fierce presence.

Yoichi: "Don't tell me that 'renegade' include Yoshitsune-sama too, does it?"

(This is the first time I've seen Yoichi-san angry....)

Yoichi: "My lord---if he were to kill Yoritomo-kou, he would kill him fair and square."

Yoichi: "Yoshitsune-sama's army is not so modest that they will remain silent when someone questions their lord's integrity."

Yoshitsune: "----It's okay, Yoichi. Thank you."

It was Yoshitsune-sama who settled the tense atmosphere with just one word.

Yoichi: "But"

Yoshitsune: "Being innocent, I don't need to be suspected."

Yoshitsune: "Yoritomo-kou."

Yoritomo: "Yeah."

Yoshitsune: "Let us follow the fashion of the Shogunate."

Yoshitsune: "However, in claiming to be fair and impartial, we must like everyone else, be...."

Yoshitsune: "I do not want house arrest in a room, but confinement in a prison cell."

(Nn...)

Yoichi: "........................"

Even Yoichi-san clenched his fists.

Yoritomo: "----Yoshitsune."

Yoshitsune: "There will be no objection. Now show me to the prison."

Yoshitsune-sama turned his back on Yoritomo-sama as if to reject him.

(How did this happen?)

(What if their bond is breaks once again....)

[hazy-dr3am]

Big Bro Giyuu To The Rescue

Tomioka Giyuu & Tokito Muichiro

pairing/s: muichiro x gn!reader

summary: how come giyuu notices the all the pining? the fond smiles?

warning/s: japanese honorifics

a/n: i know relationship worked differently in the taisho era but yk-

also the honorifics thing isn't really a warning, it's just for those who find it cringe ig

!NOT A SHIP! {Giyuu & Mui}

lowercase intended

not edited

{MASTERLIST}

what the hell.

how come he was witnessing two (2) oblivious teens pin after each other but no one else?

wasn't he supposed to be the emotionally constipated one?

giyuu repeatedly watched muichiro and y/n, the said oblivious teens interact for the 100th time.

he saw the look in y/n's eyes as they oh-so patiently helped with the mist pillar's memory about them.

he saw the said pillar's face soften when they took their time with him and never seemed to be annoyed with his forgetfulness.

but giyuu also saw that when they would leave, muichiro's would face turn sour. mad at himself for forgetting who they were. mad at himself for feeling things he didn't know he could feel.

he saw how conflicted he was.

so, giyuu went to the a local store that sold notebooks and bought one or two.

and when he came back he witnessed his daily dose of oblivious teens.

there they were, standing in front of each other. y/n explaining who they were once again and muichiro trying to rack his brain for recognition.

they seemed to have conversed for a minute or two until y/n bowed and went their merry way.

perfect.

the water pillar walked towards the youngest pillar, calling out softly his name.

"tokito-kun."

muichiro slowly turned around to giyuu, giving him the same look he must've done to y/n.

without saying anything else the water pillar offered him the notebooks and the mist pillar looked at him confused.

"who are you again?"

the long black and mint tinted haired boy titled his head to the side.

(a/n: that's a mouthful-)

"that doesn't matter right now, take these."

giyuu said, watching on as muichiro takes the notebooks and watch them curiously.

"just read what i wrote on the front page, you'll understand then."

and in a blink of an eye the young boy watched the older man walk away. he glanced down to the books given to him, deciding to do what he was told before forgetting later on.

"i gave you these notebooks for a reason.

i like to call them memory books, you can write down what you'd like to remember and if you forget you can read through your book.

hope you put it to good use. :)

- giyuu tomioka

{i wish you luck with you and y/n's future relationship.}"

muichiro felt his cheeks heat up at the last comment, he didn't think it was obvious he had some sort of attraction to his friend.

hm, maybe if tomioka knew his little crush he could help him? he should ask the next he sees to thank him as well.

he was gonna write that down but realized he didn't have anything to actually write with. he felt conflicted, because if he doesn't note it down now he'll end up forgetting to what he wanted to do.

that is until muichiro saw an old looking crow fly towards him with a pen(?) and a little letter. the crow dropped the contents onto his open hand and quickly flew away. (with struggle-)

"almost forgot a pen, my apologies.

maybe i should a memory book as well. :>

- giyuu tomioka"

muichiro felt himself chuckle at the letter, quickly taking the pen and joting down notes.

reminder;

• thank giyuu

• ask for help with m/n y/n

(an: m/n = misspelled name)

──•𓄹𖠲۪۫ᮀ〭｡｡ timeskip a week later

muichiro held his notebook and flipped through the pages, smiling fondly. he couldn't thank tomioka enough for helping him ask out y/n, his now significant other.

he had asked them out earlier today, with tomioka's advice and help of course.

muichiro now was trying to find the water pillar, he wanted him to be the first one to know of his new relationship.

he doesn't know why though, maybe because his help and advice was heavily used?

i mean, he did feel this sort of comfort around him.

his black haired friend helped him write down any information about the other pillars, the kamaboko squad, which estate is which and certain locations he went to more.

muichiro never felt unsafe nor judged around tomioka, he never underestimated when he first joined the pillars.

oh well.

speaking of which, he completed one notebook due to tomioka's help and he even made him a little quick way to find things.

he got a little color organization for him;

pink = y/n information

green = hashira information

blue = estate locations

purple = kamaboko squad information

orange = certain locations information

which was honestly muichiro's life saver.

so muichiro quickly turned to the blue section, flipping pages a few times before landing on the 'water pillar estate info;' page.

after reading what he needed to know he was quick to go to said estate.

once he arrived to tomioka's estate, he knocked on the door. not waiting for a minute he entered the oh so- quiet establishment.

muichiro was almost confused on how he managed to tomioka's bedroom but shook off the thought as quick as it came.

the young boy called out to the man, hearing a 'come in' was all it took to swing the door aside.

both of them looked at each other, giyuu raising his eyebrows in amusement and confusion. it wasn't the first time muichiro barged in randomly but he felt a lighter aura around the young boy.

"is there anything you need?"

the taller man asked, noticing the slight change in the young pillars face. it looked brighter, his eyes had an unsual but pretty shine to them. not only that but he was fidgeting with his sleeves and swishing side to side slightly.

"y/n is now my partner."

now he might of said it with a straight face but all muichiro could feel was the buzzing of excitement.

giyuu's face morphed to such a soft way.

a small genuine smile, pure eyes that crinkled up and a very relaxed posture. he could only look at the young boy, who he saw as a little brother of sorts- with fondness. 

"i'm so glad to hear that, i'm very proud of you mui." 

giyuu could only offer his most sincere smile, not even noticing the little slip up.

not being able to contain himself, muichiro rushed towards him, warping his arms around giyuu's waist, squeezing tightly.

the man almost fell back, letting put an 'oof', not expecting weight to crash onto him.

fortunately he quickly gained his balance and pressed muichiro's head to his chest, happy to know that everything worked out in the end. (not that he had any doubts or anything)

"i'm so happy for you both, mui."

"it's all thanks to you, yuu-nii."

[maranello]

Alright. This is not a proper debrief because I did not watch the race, and from what I know based on what I’ve read, I do not intend to experience it.

I am not here to talk about Ferrari’s disastrous strategy because honestly all that needs to be said and analyzed has already been done. The data is out there, I’m sure you all have seen enough. It was an incomprehensible and catastrophic strategic mistake, even factoring in how the F1-75 seems to have more trouble performing in cooler conditions. But I am not here to talk about the failure of Ferrari’s strategy department.

I am here to talk about Ferrari’s response. Or rather, the failure of its leadership.

I think I’ve been fair enough to Mattia Binotto through the past year. I gave him the benefit of the doubt many times through 2021 and even earlier this year when people don’t want to. I try to be understanding, I really do. Even as he increasingly says things I deeply disagree with, I can understand that sometimes you need to tell the public one thing but do another. However, by now, I see no signs of Binotto doing what is necessary to help the team get better.

What Binotto keeps doing is making excuses. Explanations. With strategic fuck-ups specifically. He deflects the blame from the strategy team. It’s the changing weather conditions. It’s the car, even, this time.

And you know what? There is a time and place for that, when a good leader shields the team from all the public criticisms and gives them the time and space and stability they need to work their way up from the bottom. In 2020, in 2021, this was the right way to go about it, and the hardworking mechanics and engineers of Maranello have given us a really good car. The pit stops have improved. It was a remarkably quick turnover for Ferrari.

But a good leader doesn’t just shield the team from public wrath so they can keep their heads down and do their work, a good leader also holds the team accountable for their mistakes, so that they may learn from it.

The first disastrous mistake in Monaco, I can understand taking the heat off the team. It was the first disastrous mistake in strategy this year, the team has not been in title contention in a long time, the changing weather conditions were genuinely a completely unexpected curveball, and hurt as it may for Charles especially, the team did not do too badly on the scale of a whole. It was just massively disappointing for Charles and also the fact that we should have had a 1-2. For a first mistake, early in the season, yes, you can say that you as a team will learn from it. But then Silverstone, you lose sight of the bigger picture as a whole and it cost the driver who was still at that point your best shot to somehow save this championship. I have never seen so many tifosi so mad about a Ferrari win. Binotto maintains that they made the right call. And now Hungary.

Let’s take a look at Binotto’s comments after the race, shall we? Here are some of his comments at Budapest to corriere:

"There is no need to change but to build, other teams don't change and after ten years they win the championship. If anything, we have to grow and improve. I am for stability."

"Whatever tyre we were using was no good. For the first time this year we didn't have the speed and pace to fight for win. This misstep weighed more than others. I don't think it's all down to the weather, in other races in the cooler weather we did well."

"We have to analyse and understand [what went wrong with the car], now there is no explanation, that's the first thing to do before we get back on track at Spa at the end of August."

To motorsport.it:

"The approach is not to change, but to add. Understand what doesn't work, and correct it. And by add I mean try to improve. We have a strong base, guys who show the right mentality, determination and ability. Obviously we still have to grow to do even better."

"There is nothing to change on the pitwall. I think other teams make mistakes and for 10 years they keep the same team, then they win the world title with the same people. I don't see why Ferrari has to change the pitwall for every single mistake."

"This race weighs heavily, because after Friday we expected quite different things. We knew we had a competitive package and the others didn't turn up in Hungary with any big changes. So this is the first real misstep of the season."

"It is a disappointment, but above all there is the desire to understand what happened and react immediately. We didn't prepare the car for hot asphalt, because we knew that wouldn't happen. But we based ourselves on Friday's data to prepare."

"What didn't work I honestly don't know. We have a week before the summer break to work on it and understand, and then we can start again in Belgium without any problems."

If I did a detailed breakdown with everything I hate about his statements after the race, we’d be here for a very, very long time. But we’ll touch on a few:

First of all, what a fucking disrespect it is to the engineers and mechanics who have worked their asses off for two years full of all sorts of ridicule you can imagine to make this car happen, and then!! when a strategic fuck-up happens, your boss blames the car for not having pace when openly sourced data says otherwise, when just fans on the internet can clearly see otherwise.

And if everyone, everyone from the merest of fans to journalists/experts of the sport everywhere can see what a colossal fuck up that was, to not acknowledge it or to deflect the responsibility of this result elsewhere is just unbelievable. Not only that, to undermine and alienate your own team, from engineers at the factory to your own driver, in order to defend a strategy department that is clearly in the wrong is even more unjustifiable.

In this situation, I am not even asking Binotto to throw Iñaki Rueda, Head of Race Strategy, to the wolves. Quite the opposite in fact, I am saying that Mattia Binotto needs to take responsibility for the fact that Iñaki Rueda, the Ferrari strategy department, fucked up in a completely detrimental way for the THIRD time in a season where we have both the car and the driver to win. Clearly they learned nothing from the first time, and not the second time either. It’s as if they do not regard those strategic failures as failures at all.

And that brings us to the last and most thing about Binotto’s statements: the blatant refusal to change. Whatever this team has going on? Strategy wise? It’s not fucking working. Hasn’t been for years. Iñaki Rueda has been the Head of Race Strategy at Ferrari since the end of 2014. The pit wall has been a longstanding issue at the Scuderia since Ross Brawn left. I do not understand how he manages to outlasts literal team principals when he has been responsible for some of Ferrari’s greatest failures. It should be well clear by now that there is something wrong with our strategy department. And yet Mattia Binotto thinks no change on the pit wall is necessary?

Then maybe, just maybe, Mattia Binotto is part of the change that needs to happen at Scuderia Ferrari. I have respect for his long career at the Scuderia and how he had been able to turn Ferrari around in such a short time on the technical front. Perhaps he can still play a critical role with his expertise.

However, at the mid-point of the 2022 season, this is where he glaringly fails as a team principal. He has not held the strategy team accountable for their mistakes, and he has not taken responsibility for making sure that they improve. It is his duty as a manager to do so, and he has failed. Instead, he is obstinate in insisting that the team does not need to change when they not only keep making the same mistakes but fail to show any sign of awareness, much less improvement. In doing, so he has made a complete laughing stock of the Ferrari team—its name, its history, and its legend—in the motorsport world. It is unacceptable.

The strategy this season has just been flat out embarrassing, and the post-race comments and false apologies even more so. It’s humiliating enough as a fan to agree with those ridiculing your team, but even more insulting that your team itself seeks to pull the hood over your eyes on where they have failed you and your drivers and the rest of the team.

This failure of leadership has lost us race wins and has effectively lost us this championship. If it loses us our greatest generational talent in decades, the one that has gone through the ranks of our academy and stuck by us through the hard times, as well……..

Then I pray that God will have mercy on Mattia Binotto, because the tifosi sure as hell won’t.

[translytherins]

Saiki's What Now?!?

Pairings: Saiki Kusuo x Male! Calm! Slightly Clingy! Fiance! Reader

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A/n: I got this idea from a story on Wattpad about their male oc being Saiki's fiance and I thought that It was adorable and I wanted to write one myself. Hope you enjoy!!

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It was the end of the school day and all Saiki wanted was to go home right away because his parents said that they had a suprise for him and that he has to back home right away after school and he couldn't tell what is was through his parents minds because all of their thoughts were either 'Kusuo's gonna be so happy!' and 'I can't wait to see his reaction!' he was secretly hoping it was a lifetime supply of coffee jelly.

"Hey Saiki! Wanna go get ramen?"

"He's not getting ramen with you because he's helping me track down Dark Reunion! Right Saiki?"

"I'm not going with either of you"

"Aww... Why?"

"Because my parents need me home"

And with that Saiki left his "friends" and went straight home to see what his parents had in store.

-

As Saiki approached his house, not only could he hear his parents thoughts but he could feel another person's presence coming from his house. He was slightly confused about who it was but as he comes closer to his house he felt a familiar aura that made his eyes widen slightly. He picked up his pace his heart beating rapidly, silently hoping it was who he thought it was. He opened the door to his house and saw a familiar male with [hair coloured] hair sitting and talking with his parents at the dining table. In a blink of an eye he had his arms wrapped around the [hair coloured] male whom jumped slightly before the male smiled softly and pecked Saiki's lips making said male smile. Who's the male you might ask? It's Saiki's fiance, (M/n) (L/n). Now you might be wondering why they're already engaged? Well... That a story for another day and if you want it please drop a request.

"Hey Ku... Welcome back... I missed you so much..." (M/n) said softly which made Saiki smile before he buried his face into (M/n)'s neck.

"I missed you too..." Saiki spoke out loud instead of telepathically because most of his powers doesn't work on (M/n) which Saiki was happy about.

They just stayed in that position while ignoring the fact that Saiki's parents were cooing and taking pictures of them until Saiki's mom cleared her throat to catch the couples attention which worked.

"I'm happy that you both are reunited again after a year of being away from each other! You both make such a cute couple! Also Kusuo... Little (M/n) over here Hey! I'm not little! will be joining you're class tomorrow!"

As Saiki heard that, Saiki was absolutely ecstatic before he realised that he had to share his (M/n) with his "friends" but that went unnoticed by his family and fiance as Saiki's mom continued to talk excitedly.

-

The next day came earlier thank Saiki would have liked because he would rather stay in bed and cuddle with (M/n) in his bed but (M/n) managed to convince threatened him that they had to get out of bed and get ready for school or no more cuddles for him :(. And with that Saiki reluctantly got out of bed and started to get ready for school.

-

Saiki and (M/n) were making their way towards PK Academy with their arms intertwined and (M/n) laying his head on Saiki's shoulder. Saiki was feeling very content right now. Just him and (M/n) and no one interrupting their mome-

"Hey Saiki!"

An annoying voice called out to Saiki which turned his content mood very sour. Him and (M/n) stopped turned their heads towards where the voice came from, arms still intertwined, and Saiki saw his "friends" Toritsuka, Kaidou, Aren and Nendou..

"Woah Saiki! Who's this hottie!" Toritsuka said, whistling slightly What the f*ck did I just write😂 before he was smacked upside the head by Aren.

"That's no way to treat someone Toritsuka!"

"I'm sorry! I was just stating facts!" Toritsuka whined before he got hit by Aren again.

Saiki just glared at them before wrapping his arms around (M/n)'s waist and pulled him closer towards him making (M/n) giggle slightly before he decided to introduced himself.

"Hey there. I'm (M/n) (L/n). You must be Ku's friends. *Saiki pinched (M/n)' s waist slightly* Hey! Stop that Ku. I'm talking to you're friends. Anyways... It's nice to meet you" (M/n) said and gave them a dazzling smile which left them slightly breathless and blushing.

He was so pretty! Maybe even prettier than Teruhashi!

Saiki glared at them before he unwrapped his arms from (M/n)'s waist before he picked (M/n) up bridal style, which earned an adorable squeal from (M/n), and continued walking to school which made his friends snap out of their thoughts and they started fast walking to try and catch up with them as Toritsuka and Kaidou were yelling at Saiki to slow down which only made Saiki walk faster with (M/n) in his arms as (M/n)'s arms around wrapped Saiki's neck and he snuggled up to Saiki's chest which made Saiki coo at him internally.

-

As Saiki and (M/n) were walking through the hallway, with (M/n) still being carried by Saiki, Saiki felt everyone staring at them and Saiki heard their thoughts ranged from 'Their so cute!', 'Eww... Disgusting gays' well f*ck you too or 'Is that the new student? He's pretty sexy ;)' the last one made Saiki slightly bitter but he just ignored them as they made their way towards their classroom. Usually Saiki tried to avoid attention from his peers and schoolmates but he couldn't find himself to care as he just focused on (M/n) who was still cuddled up to his chest. That was until he heard a familiar annoying voice that belonged to a certain glowing blueberry.

'Is that Saiku? It's Saiki. When are you going to get it right? Maybe I should go up and say hi to him! Surely today is my lucky day and he'll finally say oh wow to me'

And with that Saiki started walking faster to try to avoid her.

'Why is he walking so fast!?'

Saiki and (M/n) reached their classroom, losing the glowing blueberry along the way, and entered before Saiki placed (M/n) in a seat much to his (M/n)'s annoyance which he expressed with a quiet groan. Saiki chuckled lightly before he kissed (M/n)'s forehead and sitting down in the seat in front of him, facing (M/n) and grabbing his hand and intertwined their fingers. (M/n) smiled towards Saiki before he placed light kisses on Saiki's face which made Saiki's face heat up slightly but it wasn't noticeable. He continued to ignore the eyes on them and the thoughts running through everyone's heads and just focused on (M/n).

'There he i- Huh!?! Who's he and why is he kissing Sako!?! It's Saiki'

"Good morning Saiki! 'Huh... She finally got my name right'. Who's this cutie?"

'He might be pretty and handsome but I'm much better than him because I'm perfect inside and out!'

'(M/n) will always be 10 times better than you'

(M/n) stopped placing light kisses on Saiki's face and turned his attention towards her. He just stared at her for a few seconds before looking at Saiki, silently asking if he wanted him to awnser. Saiki nodded his head before (M/n) turned his head towards the blueberry again.

'Huh?! No 'Oh wow' from him!? Maybe he's shy just like Saiki? Yeah! That's probably it because no one can resist the perfect pretty girl! Alright! You're on shy guy!'

'Please leave us alone' Saiki thought to himself before (M/n) awnsered her.

"I'm (M/n) (L/n). I just transferred from [country name]. It's a pleasure to meet you" (M/n) said before giving he gave her his smile that always left everyone breathless including the glowing blueberry.

As she was about to speak, the teacher entered which made the students who weren't sitting, sit down in their seats and Saiki turned around ro pay attention to the teacher.

"Good morning everyone! As you all know today we have a new student so I want you all to welcome him to the class! Can you please come up here and tell us you're name?"

(M/n) nodded his head before he got up from his seat, made his way to the front and stood next to the teacher.

"My names (M/n) (L/n). I transferred from [country name]. It's a pleasure to meet you all and I hope we can all get along without an issue"

(M/n) said before smiling at them taking away everyone's breath as always.

"Is there any questions that you want to ask (M/n)-san?"

Almost most of the class had their hands raised and (M/n) calmly awnsered them.

"What's you're relationship with Saiki?" Teruhashi asked.

"I'm his fiance" (M/n) said happily while shooting Saiki a soft smile.

"WHAT!?!"

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A/n: There was supposed to be more but I got tired of typing. Request or comment if you want a part 2 about the wedding! Have a good day everyone!

Edited: Part 2 is already out! Go check it out! Just Got Married!

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[tastyykpop]

𝑆𝑤𝑒𝑒𝑡 𝐶𝑜𝑟𝑟𝑢𝑝𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛

•pairings: enemy, barista and student!jaemin x student and barista!reader

♡𝑠𝑚𝑢𝑡♡

<next>

•warnings: dom!jaemin, brat!reader, brat taming, crying kink, hair pulling, choking, small praising, small size kink, degradation (slut, whore), dumbification (sexual and non sexual use) nanas kinda mean :( but gets a lil nicer :), jaemin refers to himself as nana a lot mostly when they do the dirty, bulging kink, pet names (princess, baby, baby girl, little girl, pretty girl), unprotected sex (please be safe), slight face slapping (he slaps her once), rough sex clearly, some sexual tension, I hope i got everything

You were fuming!

The boy in front of you not even batting an eyelash, just laughing at the mess dripping down your face.

You smelt like an iced americano.

People around you held their hands to their mouths in shock and others tried to hold back their laughter. Some even pointed at you or gave sympathetic looks.

It wasnt like people were surprised anymore. Jaemin always had something up his sleeve for you. But he never went as far as pouring his coffee on you.

"Aw poor baby. Do you need a napkin?" He faked sympathy with a pout and his friends began laughing. You just got up and walk by them, making sure to bump into jaemins shoulder on your way through.

It was almost everyday that Jaemin would do something so uncalled for. It was like he was made to push your buttons. Even as you're walking out of the college building, you can still hear the boy laughing at you. Or maybe it was the other students. Either way, you wanted to kill him.

As you trudged towards your car, a sense of relief washed over you. A great happiness that only comes when you finished your classes and could go home. Only this happiness stayed for a good 2 hours until you have to go to your part time job at the cafe with your favorite person of course. But its not like you can quit. You need the money so you can live and get the education you need, no matter how hard it is being with him.

It was then when you sat in your car and the squishing in the seat made your face curl into a scowl, only made you think of ways to get away with murder. It was gross really. The seats were sticky, plus your hair and clothes were sticking to you like lip gloss. A shower would be perfect right about now.

"Hi y- oh..." Your roommate, jimin, stared at your messy state. Giving you a good up and down before shrugging his shoulders, "jaemin?"

You sighed, walking over to the kitchen to grab a bottle of water, "Who else? Its always him."

Jimin gave you a small smile and came closer as if ready to hug you but didn't because he didn't want to get sticky. "You know, maybe you should quit that job."

"No."

He groaned and snatched the water that you were about to sip, "Why? You'd only see jaemin in school. And you wouldnt have to stick with his bickering in work." He huffed, shaking his head, "Girls are so difficult sometimes."

You tried leaping up to grab the bottle from jimin, but all he did was hold it above his head. You stomped on his foot in return. Jimin huddled over and you snatched the bottle, smirking with victory as you put it to your lips.

"You fucking snake." Jimin hissed in pain.

A laugh fell from your lips as you walked by him, completely ignoring his words and his pain, "Im gonna take a shower."

Once you got to your room, the first thing you did was grab your work clothes, a towel, and underwear and got ready for the warm shower.

After you switched on the water and let it heat up, you stepped in and immediately felt at peace as the water cascaded over your body, cleaning off the almost dried coffee. Your hair felt lighter, like a feather and your fingers could now slip through the strands easily without an issue. The scent of your body wash overpowered the coffee smell and you felt much better. Water, soap, and coffee were beginning to fill the drain as you finished washing up. You rolled your eyes at the sight of the murky water. What a bastard.

For once you were actually happy to wear your work clothes after what had happened earlier. The clothes actually felt comfortable and jimin was becoming more and more confused as to why you were hugging yourself with a huge smile on the couch.

"No one should be that happy after a shower." He started flipping through channels on the t.v.

"Dont tell me how to feel, I dont smell like jaemins coffee anymore." You gushed overdramtically. Jimin could only role his eyes.

"Please...you act like he's a demon of some sort."

You squinted your eyes at jimin and flared your nostrils, "he is. Hes a nasty, dumb, annoying, self centered-"

"Okay okay I get it! You hate jaemin! The funny thing is you can never get his name out of your mouth." Everything stopped and your head snapped in jimins directions.

"What are you saying?" A frown found itself on your face, jimin leaned closer.

"Im saying that maybe you might like him."

You shrieked in disgust, blocking your ears with your hands. Jimin laughed at your reaction. Almost falling off the couch in the process. "Ew! Gross! Why would you even think that!"

"Like I said, you can never get his name out of your mouth. I think its pretty obvious you like him." He was still giggling at you except your face was anything but happy, more grossed out at how he thought you could like such a person

"I can't stand you. I'm leaving for work." You stood up and jimin did nothing to stop you from going. Even though you still had about 15 minutes until you normally leave. "Ill be back at 9." The door slammed behind you, leaving jimin alone with another laughing fit.

You got in the car and drove off to your work, still trying to come up with a reason as to why jimin is saying all this. Sure maybe you talk about jaemin a little lot but that doesn't mean you like him. Its very much the opposite and jimin should know that. It only frustrates you the more you think about it. Liking someone like jaemin? Please. That would be your nightmare.

As you pulled up to the cafe, there were only a few other cars parked. Few were from other workers but the majority were most like customers or people just trying to get a free parking space. Lucky for you, there were many open spaces, unlike when you come later and they're filled. Maybe leaving earlier wasnt such a bad idea. It saved you the 3 minute walk.

"Y/n! You're just on time!" One of your coworkers, irene, called out as you stepped inside the shop. "We need help back here!" You had no time to even begin to say your shift hasn't started yet when irene took you by the hand and dragged you to where the coffee was being made. "We have a bunch of online orders coming in so can you please help us with the coffee and food?" She tossed you a brown apron for you to put on and you nodded, trying to get your brain to speed up with everything in the world.

It was so quiet when you walked in that you never even realized that the back was busy. Coffee cups were filled and put into trays for orders, food was being heated or baked. It was a chaotic place right now and all you could do was help. So as fast as you could, you began with the first order on the screen. A large mocha with extra extra sugar, whipped cream, and chocolate curls. Easy enough you thought as you reached for a cup but a hand beat you to it.

Your eyes looked up at the person in front of you and just when you thought everything was going fine, it wasn't, "What are you doing here so early?" You asked bitterly.

"I always come in early. What are you doing here so early?" Jaemin asked whilst holding a death grip on the cup.

"Just felt like coming early." You muttered, watching as jaemin turned away with a scoff, quickly cutting the conversation short. "Bastard."

Jaemin was busy making what you were originally going to do, so you looked for another order to get ready. It was just two cake pops and a small strawberry banana smoothie. Something you've been craving recently from the lack of sweetness and fruit in your day to day life.

The cake pops and smoothie were quick to make and were soon sent off to the customer. You happily beamed and wished them good day once they left.

After then there was a familiar face with a friend right next to him, he was quite handsome you must say. He was indeed so handsome that he just looked unreal. "Hey jimin. Whose this?" You nodded towards the bright black haired man.

"This is taemin! He wanted some coffee so I brought him- hey stop staring at him!" Jimin snapped you out of your trance and taemin chuckled.

"Its okay shes cute." He eye smiled, showing off his perfectly white teeth. He's definitely not real.

Jimin tsk'd, "Until you get to know her."

"Yeah yeah... whatever." You smiled at him, completely oblivious to what he just said.

They both ordered and took a seat next to the window. You were still staring at taemin with your head in your hand until someone tapped your shoulder, "Who are they?" Jaemins voice rang in your ears, making you stand up straight.

"Thats my roommate, jimin, and his friend taemin." You glanced back at the boys, mainly at taemin and just stared like he was your first crush.

"Quit staring your gonna scare him away." Jaemin said earning himself a chuckle from you.

You stuck your tongue out, "He called me cute."

The boy smirked from ear to ear and leaned in close to your face, "He was lying." You grumbled and pushed him away from you, getting annoyed by his presence very quickly.

"Jaemin and y/n, get back to work we have orders to do!" Irene called out. Both of you quickly returning to your stations and getting things ready.

"Look at him. Hes basically waiting for me to come over to him." Seulgi, another person in this school you dispise, said as she looked at jaemin in the back of the room. She wasn't very quiet either considering you were only a few seats away from him. So it only meant that jaemin could hear her, but chose to ignore it. Typical boy.

"Honestly. He looks so good today too." Sana, her best friend, commented.

"Oh and did you hear what he was planning on doing today to y/n? Apparently he's gonna-"

"Class get back in your seats, we have much to discuss." The professor stood in the front of the class. Everyone shifted and moved to their appropriate places and waited for the teacher to begin. Unlike you, who was wondering what seulgi was going to say next. If its something worse than coffee being poured on your head, you may just have to bury yourself six feet under after this.

As you were taking notes something flung towards your head and hit you on the side, looking over was jaemin with a smirk was he held his fingers in a sling shot shape. A rubber band was laying on your lap. Then another one. One even hit your cheek creating a small smack sound as you winced in pain. Oh you desperately wanted to get out of this seat and punch the boy in the face.

"Excuse me sir!" You called out, raising your head. The whole class looked at you and your cheeks began to heat up. "May i go to the restroom?" The professor nodded and you headed out. Not until you stopped in your tracks from a loud smack to your butt, causing the whole class to turn around again.

Jaemin was enjoying this, the way you stared at him with wide eyes and open mouth, made him just want to do it again. He never thought this reaction from you would be so entertaining and he tried his best not show it, with only a small smirk covering his face.

You rushed out of the room, faster than ever and leaned against the nearest surface you could find. Not only were you questioning reality, but also why jaemin just did that.

"That little bitch." You said to yourself as you paced back and forth in the hallway, staring at the ground.

"Excuse me?" Jaemin voice rang in your ears as you looked up with a angry red face. Steam was even coming out of your ears and nose. "Did you just call nana a bitch?" He put his hands to his chest and pouted, "Little girl you need to learn some manners." Jaemin tilted his head to the side and began walking forward.

"Shut up." You had nothing else to say as you grit your teeth, looking at the ground.

Jaemin didnt like that and grabbed the back of your neck to make you look at him, "What? Did your stupid head stop thinking? Your normally so chatty for nana what happened?"

"Jaemin i-" you cut yourself off as you felt jaemin grip the back of your neck tighter causing you to moan in pain.

"Stupid girl." Jaemin whispered, forcefully pushing you away. It was not strong enough to make you fall but at least stumble.

You glowered, earning yourself a chuckle from him. "What will it take for you to leave me alone!?"

"Bring this to table 15 please! Thanks!" Irene smiled as she handed you a small cup of iced coffee and you took it, taking it to its designated place. What you didn't except was to see taemin again, gleaming up at you.

"Hi y/n." He smiled and you tried to remain calm.

God how is someone so beautiful?

"Hey, I didnt except you to come back." You returned the warm smile and started to play with the apron around your waist.

Taemin giggled, "I actually quite like this place, its cozy." He began to take a sip from the straw, eyes still trained on you. If only you weren't so awkward with him, you wouldve found something to say other than staring at him and indulging in the beauty before you. But lucky for you someone behind the counter called for you, quickly averting your attention back to work.

The next order was a shake, so you grabbed the correct ingredients and began using the blendor, when someone came next to you, doing the same thing "You seem like your having fun flirting around." The unwanted conversation with jaemin began, "makes nana kind of jealous."

"Hm funny." You ignored him and continued blending the ice cream.

Jaemin casually rolled his eyes and glanced down at your nonchalant face before returning back to the blender, "you know you really do piss me off."

You sneered and snickered to yourself, "what are you gonna do about it?"

"I was thinking of fucking you dumb or until you know your place but maybe thats a bit too rewarding."

The cup was removed and set aside from the blender with your hands placed on your hips, "Im sorry what?"

"Did I stutter?" Jaemin raised an eyebrow and also put the cup down. You went silent, not knowing whether or not to just laugh it off or quickly run away. "And I'm still waiting on my apology."

"One, I am not going to apologize to your bitchy ass. Two, even if I did let you, you could never 'fuck me dumb', it just wouldn't happen. Now stop trying to get in my pants."

Jaemin opened then closed his mouth about to say something, but didn't and just put on a sweet smile, "Go take these to table 7 for nana." He said like he was testing yoj.

"Why? You made them."

"Nana told you to do something little girl, now do it." Jaemins sweet smile was still plastered on his face yet it intimidated you enough to do as he said.

Taemin was long gone when you walked out and you were kind of sad as you weren't able to say goodbye before he left. You placed the shake down on the table and was ready to walk away when you heard your name being called.

"Y/n? You work here?" Seulgis voice spoke as you turned around. Both her and sana were looking at you with shit eating grins.

"Doesn't jaemin also work here seulgi?" Sana asked the girl in front of her and seulgi looked as if she got the brightest idea.

"Oh yeah! Y/n can you get jaemin over here? Pretty please?" She asked sweetly yet with a hint of sourness and you listened, not feeling like ignoring her at the moment.

You told jaemin that seulgi and sana were out front looking for him and he nonchalantly went out without question. Leaving you to do some of the work alone, which you didn't mind considering its jaemin, the annoying bastard who won't leave you alone, but he does help you whenever you need it. And right now, it was a bit busy, and you needed it.

After doing 4 more online orders and sending them off through the driveway, jaemin finally came back with a scowl on his face looking ready to beat someone up. "What the hell is wrong with you!?" He raised his voice only loud enough for you to hear. But you were quite confused on what was happening.

"What are you talking about?" You asked, tilting your head to the side like a puppy.

Jaemin groaned, "I knew you were fucking dumb but come on y/n! Why is seulgi covered in the shake i gave you?"

You paused for a moment, unable to answer that. Is he assuming you spilt her shake on her? Why would you even do that in the first place. Yeah you don't like her, but you're not going to stoop to her or his level. "I dont know."

He slammed his hand on the wall near your head, startling you a bit, "You dont know huh?" You shook your head slowly. "Seulgi and sana both said you purposefully spilt the shake on seulgi. Now answer me honestly. Is that true?" You shook your head again, feeling really small and helpless under his strong gaze.

"I-i didnt spill t-the skake." You muttered quietly.

He inhaled sharply, "Then who did huh? Or maybe you don't know because you're so dumb."

"S-stop..." you frowned, looking down at floor, but jaemin had other plans and made you look up at him. A single tear slide down your cheek and you swear you saw a small grin appear on his face.

"Tell nana what happened." His voice became softer as he swiped away the stray tear on your face.

You huffed, still afraid that he'd do something to you although you knew he wouldnt purposely cause you pain. "W-well she asked me to go get you, which I did, a-and her shake was perfectly fine when I left."

"Are you saying she purposely spilt the shake on herself to make me angry at you?"

"Y-yes."

"Ill believe my little girl for now, but if I find out you are lying, you will be in big trouble got that?" Jaemin lifted his hand off the wall and proceeded to walk back out of the room. Leaving you shocked at his words and still frightened by an angry jaemin.

You went to the cash register once jaemin left to get ready to count the bills until you heard jaemin and seulgi arguing. Lucky for them, no one but you and him were working right now. Irene went home earlier and the normal crew always leave around 6:30, leaving just you and jaemin.

"It was only a prank nana. No need to get so worked up. And besides you didn't even prank her today, be glad I did for you." Seulgi said smiling at the boy in front of her.

Jaemin physically cringed when he heard his nickname roll off her tongue, "you didn't have to do that."

You stood there watching, astonished how jaemin was standing up for you. Hes supposed to hate you. Jaemin didn't even bother going with the girls when they offered him a ride, instead he stayed with you and even helped close. Something he normally doesn't do because he leaves before you and gives you all the hard things to do.

"Hurry up and finish." Jaemin spoke. A little bit of anger still laced in his voice.

"Whats your rush?"

He sighed, "I wanna go home. Plus I can't stand this place right now. I'm pissed."

You finished wiping down that last table and walked over to him, "Just go home then."

"Not without you."

You gave him a dirty look, "im not going home with you."

Jaemin leaned down, his face only inches from yours and whispered, "Remember what I said earlier hm? I wanna fuck you dumb." He then grabbed your waist bringing you closer to him, if that was possible, "Can I do that pretty girl? Can nana fuck you so hard you won't even remember anything but my cock?" You were so lost in your mind that everything became a blur. Jaemins words sounded so sweet but were so lewd. And you were so close to kissing him until he put his finger on your lips, "But you have to wait." You frowned and were only getting more angry by the second. You went from not wanting anything to do with jaemin to just about ready to beg him to kiss you. Was it that easy for him to get in your head? Or were you so sex deprived that now jaemin seemed somewhat interesting?

You laid on jaemins bed getting bored with the constant teasing. He never did anything but that. Jaemin would get close to your lips and back away as you chased him. Hed chuckle and coo at you for being so desperate. But that wasn't the point of all the teasing. He really just wanted you to beg him to kiss you. No words will come out of his mouth telling you to beg, he just excepted it to happen sooner or later. But youre too stubborn to do so, so you grabbed the back of his neck and pulled him down to kiss him, catching him by surprise.

Jaemins hands gripped your wrists and pulled them off his face, pinning them to the bed, "You didnt even ask to kiss me." Jaemin pulled away, raising his eyebrow high, "Dont you think thats a bit mean."

"So was teasing me, but I let you continue." You huffed, trying to free your wrists from his death grip but it was no use.

"You dont have a say on whether i continue or not. I'm in charge here and you take what I give you, understand?" You rolled your eyes. It was your intention to make jaemin angry. You wanted to push his buttons.

What you didnt know was that not answering jaemin correctly would earn you a slap to the face. And jaemin was not even fazed by it.

"Dont roll your eyes and answer nana." Jaemin smiled. "Can you say 'yes nana'?"

"Y-yes nana."

"Good girl." Jaemin muttered and began slowly kissing your jawline down to your neck, sucking here and there creating shades of purple and red marks. Oh how he loved the marks he was leaving.

You so desperately wanted to grip onto jaemins hair and pull it but he never budged his hands, only tightening his grasps. As he continued attacking your neck, you began to lift your hips up to get some sort friction. Jaemin noticed and shifted so that his thigh was in between your legs and rubbing against your clothed core. A spew of quiet moans left your lips but you wanted more. Jaemin was going to soft and slow for your liking.

"I thought you were going to fuck me dumb?" You said and jaemin lifted his head to give you a quick kiss on the lips.

"Patience baby. You aren't ready yet." He let go of your wrists and took your shirt off. The cold air made you shiver and jaemin chuckled. "I wanna make you cum at least 2 times before I fuck you."

"Then stop talking and do it." You replied, pushing your hips up to rub against his thigh, but they were pushed back down on the bed.

"Didnt I say to take what I give you?" Your head slowly moved up and down and jaemin smiled, "so why arent you happy with what nana gives you?"

"I want more..." you sighed as he started to slide your pants and panties off, discarding them somewhere in the room. His mouth slowly started kissing your inner thighs and you could feel your heat dripping with anticipation. You whined for more but only got a slap to the thigh telling you to be quiet. Needless to say you didn't listen and continued to try to get him closer to where you needed him most but pulling his hair.

Jaemin groaned grabbing your wrist again and pushed it away roughly. His patience was wearing out. You were more stubborn than he thought, but that doesn't mean he can't still break you. "Next time you do that, I'll flip you over and beat your ass till its purple." Your breath hitched and as much as you were tempted, you wanted to be able to sit for a few days so you stayed put and kept your hands to yourself.

But the desperation was getting to you and you wanted relief which jaemin wasnt giving you until you felt his two fingers circling around your clit. "P-please jaemin." You moaned as he flicked your clit with his middle finger. Then soon enough he stuck two fingers inside you. Your pussy automatically clenching around his digits as he moved at a steady in and out pace.

It felt so good. His fingers felt so good. They made your body twist in pleasure as more moans left your mouth. Jaemin was watching your face closely as it contorted with pleasure. He loved seeing your eyebrows bunched together, so focused on the way his fingers worked inside you.

"My pretty slut. Taking nanas fingers so well." He gushed, still watching your face. Jaemin could feel himself get even more painfully hard but he didn't want to fuck you just yet. He meant it when he said he wanted you to cum 2 times. So he picked up the speed with his fingers, your hands landing on his forearm that was resting on near your hip. "Are you gonna cum for nana princess?"

You frantically nodded your head as a wave of pleasure washed over you. You could feel your cum leak out of you as jaemin leaned down and began eating away at your cunt.

"J-jaemin! So...go-good!" Your head flew back as his tongue sucked on your clit and a loud moan filled the room.

Jaemin smirked against your heat, "I haven't even fucked you yet and your already sounding like a dumb whore. Its so easy to break you princess."

"N-no its j-ju-...." you whimpered as your brain wasnt even trying to help you function right. His tongue was extraordinary. "Mmmm."

"Aw my dumb little princess is so cute." He muttered diving back into lapping at your soaked cunt. It was almost as if on cue and without warning, you were cumming again. Jaemins hasty tongue took it all. Groaning at the taste of you in his mouth.

He sat up over you, grabbing your neck, pulling you into a deep kiss. You tasted yourself on his tongue. Deepening the kiss by grabbing the back of his hair, jaemin couldnt help but moan a bit as his cock brushed against your thigh. He felt big. Bigger than the few guys you've been with and you were ecstatic.

You tugged on jaemins pants and shirt as a way to tell him to take them off and he did after getting off of you and sitting on the edge of the bed. His abs were more defined than you thought and when his cock sprung free, your mouth started watering. Jaemins smirk only grew watching you stare. He was starting to get cocky

"What? You wanna suck my cock?" Jaemin asked sweetly.

"Yes please." You reached over to try and touch him but he didn't allow you. And smacked your hand away. It was a way for him to tease you and you hated it.

"So kind for nana now. Ealier you were so cock hungry that you decided to be a brat. Did nana finally break you?" Jaemin whispered as he moved a piece of hair out of your face, looking at you with fill admiration.

"No you didn't break me. But I wanna suck you off." You whined as jaemin picked you up and sat you just above his cock, the tip teasing at your entrance.

"Too bad. Now I want you to sit." Jaemin said looking into your eyes. You obeyed with a little hesitation. His cock was surely going to hurt you so you took it slowly and started lowering your hips. "Fuck...thats a good girl." Jaemin praised, watching his cock dissappear between your legs and your tummy get full with his cock. "My baby's so tiny you can see my cock in your belly." He said, pushing down on the area where he was imprinted in you.

Slowly you started moving, lifting your hips up and down. You were wet enough that he could easily slide in and out with no problem.

Jaemins head fell back as he sighed with relief, grunting as you picked up the pace, "So tight for nana." He whispered and you moaned back loudly. His cock stretched every inch of you to the point where it felt like you'd split.

"More more more." You whined against jaemins neck, gripping his shoulders tightly. Carefully jaemin flipped you both over so he was on top and continued pounding into your destroyed cunt. He kept a hand around your neck squeezing it every so often as a choked out moan left your throat.

His cock was so deep and fast that you couldn't think straight. You kept blabbering about his cock. Only thing on your mind was how nice he felt inside you. Jaemin bit his lip as he smirked at you, grabbing your hair and bringing your face close to his, "Now will you admit that I fucked you dumb and say your nanas dumb slut?"

"Y-yes, I'm na-nanas dumb sl-slut." You cried, tears falling down your face from how good he felt inside and if you thought jaemin couldn't go any faster, he did. His thrusts were hard and rough, sure enough to hurt your thighs tomorrow as he pounded relentlessly. "So close." Your voice came out choked as your eyes rolled to the back of your head. You held on to jaemins hand that was on your neck as he helped you with your orgasm.

Jaemin wasnt far behind you with his and groaned loudly, "fuck, where do you want it princess?"

"I-inside." You moaned as the feeling of hot cum was shot inside you. Jaemins hips kept moving him through his orgasm until he slowly came to a stop. Both of you panted loudly, there were even a few tears falling down your cheek here and there.

Jaemin slowly pulled out, making sure not to hurt you, and he laid beside you. "You did so well." He kissed your forehead. "Cmon ill carry you to bathroom so we can take a bath." He said picking up your worn out naked figure with so much care. Making you forget he was your enemy.

[sillyrabbit81]

Her Heavy Cross

Summary: Three years after tragedy hits, Lana she decides to start dating again. She meets Will through a dating app and they begin an online romance. After months of constant requests, Lana relents and agrees to meet and go on an irl date with Will. But is Will who he says he is? Lana is quickly pulled into an intense relationship forcing her to confront her tragic past. Will Lana face it or will she close her heart forever?

Pairing: OMC x OFC

Word Count: approx 2.3k

Warnings: swearing, recreational drinking

Authors Note: The story started as a Henry Cavill fanfiction but I changed it to be an original character, but shades of Henry are still there. Hope you enjoy the story and thanks for reading.

Part 2

Part 1

"It's a cruel, cruel world to face on your own,

A heavy cross to carry along..."

Heavy Cross - The Gossip

He's not coming. I took a deep breath in. I knew this would happen. Why did I believe for a second that he was going to show up? He was only 5 mins late, and he could just be parking his car. I was sure he said he was getting an Uber.

No, he was late, it's the first date, and he seemed like the kind of guy who is 10 minutes early for everything. His watch could be slow, and he thinks he is on time. Except everybody has a smartphone, so everyone knows the correct time.

Why wouldn't he message to say he was late? He had messaged me to say he would call late last week. If you're the type of guy who messages someone when you're going to call them 10 minutes late, surely you'd message if you were late to actually meet them.

Damn him. He's the one who pushed for a date. After nearly three months of chatting online, texting, calling, he finally wore me down. Then he doesn't show up? Dick move.

I looked around the pub again, hoping to see him come in. The pub was dark but not unpleasant. It wasn't very crowded for a Friday night. It was the kind of place you dropped into, have a few quiet ones, and head out somewhere else.

I was the only person sitting at the bar. The bar runners smelled faintly of stale beer, earthy and sweet. I breathed the smell in, letting it soothe my nerves.

Three 20-something women were sitting at a table. A group of four guys were sitting at another not far away. Each group kept eying the other off, the girls exploding into giggles when the guys looked at them. I rolled my eyes, willing the guys to get off their arses and talk to them.

I looked over to two guys in their 40s drinking wine. They seemed so in love sitting there playing with each other's hands. I could see them playing footsie with each other under the table. One of them caught my eye. Sprung. I smiled briefly and looked away.

I jumped as the shrill ring of the pokie machines spilled out of the gaming room. I needed to calm down. I took a drink from my vodka. I wanted a cigarette.

I rechecked my outfit. I shouldn't have worn a white skirt. I don't know what I was thinking. Looking down, I noticed a bit of my bra was visible. I pulled my baby blue singlet up. I should have worn jeans and a t-shirt. Wasn't dressing like this false advertising?

The shirt felt tight. I sat up straight and checked for fat rolls. Then I slouched and checked again. Nope, not a good look. I ran my hand over my hair, checking to make sure it's still neat. It didn't feel frizzy. I put a stray curl behind my ear.

I looked at my phone again. No messages. Maybe...

"Hello, excuse me," a voice from the stool next to me said. I flinched. That was Will's silvery voice. I smiled, relief easing over me.

Turning around, my smile faltered. That's not Will.

The man sitting next to me was living proof God had favourites. He had dark curly hair, a bit long on the top but short on the sides. He had blue, almost green eyes framed by thick, dark eyelashes. Coarse stubble covered but didn't hide his strong jaw and dimpled chin. He was an Adonis. A Hellenic God brought to life.

I wanted to run a finger along his jaw, feeling his skin and prickly hair. I shivered.

"Sorry, I just saw your phone cover, and I wondered if you could help me? I'm sure I've seen that symbol before. What's it's from?"

Simultaneously, my jaw dropped, and I tried to swallow. I made a strangled noise from my throat and started to cough. I grabbed at my drink and took a huge gulp, regretting it instantly as the vodka and bitter soda caught me off guard. I managed not to spit it out, barely.

The Adonis patted me on the back as I choked. "Are you ok?" he asked.

He wasn't from around here, English like Will. But Will doesn't look like this guy. The Adonis was looking at me, his eyebrows coming together. Oh yeah, he asked me something.

"Uh," I cleared my throat. "Ah, it's the Allomantic table of elements from Mistborn," I explained.

He smiled. I giggled. I. Fucking. Giggled. I felt the heat in my cheeks.

Still smiling, Adonis raised an eyebrow. "That's where I know it from. They are great books. Have you read other Brandon Sanderson?"

He was built like a rugby player. His shoulders were broad, and he had thick thighs. I could see the definition of his muscles through his dark denim jeans. He was wearing a light grey knitted jumper. It was so light and thin that it clung to his chest and tufts of dark hair poked out the top. He had pushed his sleeves up, exposing his forearms which were, like every part of him it seemed, toned and defined. Everything about this guy screamed masculinity.

He was very likely out of my league. Although he looked around his late 30s, guys who look like him are after 22-year-olds, not girls who were 30 last birthday. Yeah, that was it. He isn't hitting on you; he was actually curious. This realisation was what I needed to stop being a dribbling mess and return to a normal state of being.

"Yeah, I have a bit. I'm really enjoying The Way of the Kings." I felt my shoulders relax. I hadn't realised I was clenched up.

"Yeah, I've read that too. It's great. My name is Liam, by the way."

"Lana," I replied and stuck out my hand. He took my hand and shook it firmly. His hand swallowed mine.

"Pleased to meet you, Lana," Liam said in an almost formal way. He was still holding my hand. I felt the return of the Dribbling Mess. His hand was so warm. My stomach reminded me of a book I  read as a kid, 'there was an old lady who swallowed a spider, that wiggled and jiggled and tickled inside her.'

"Yeah, you too," I managed. I tried to take as much of my Australian accent out of the reply as possible. He sounded so posh, and I sounded like a bogan.

He smiled again, or did he smirk? He let go of my hand. I was barely able to stop myself from putting my hand to my cheek to feel the warmth still there. I smiled back at him and turned back to the bar. My hand went to my cheek.

"Can I buy you a drink?"

I looked back at Liam to make sure I had heard right. Yes, he was looking at me expectantly, his finger pointed to my drink. "What are you drinking?"

"Vodka, soda and fresh lime." It was my usual drink, and I said it instinctively. I could say the order even when I'm three sheets to the wind.

Liam signalled the bartender and ordered. I took the time to calm myself. I counted to 5, breathing deeply through my nose and out through my mouth. It worked, and my muddled thoughts cleared.

I had forgotten Will. I supposed it's not a good look for a random guy to buy you a drink when you're supposed to be on a first date. But then, Will wasn't here. I checked my phone, no messages or emails. Nothing.

Liam got himself a beer, grabbed my drink and stood up. "Would you like to go to the beer garden? It's a nice night out, and I'm really enjoying this Sydney weather."

"I uh... I'm waiting for someone."

Liam sat back down. "Surely they can find you outside when they get here. It's not that big a place."

"Yeah. I guess, but..." I was interrupted by the group of women I had seen earlier. They were bouncing as they stood, eyes flashing and huge grins on their faces.

One of them asked, "sorry, excuse me, are you, Liam Cross?"

Liam looked at me. His eyes clouded for a moment, and then an awkward smile was plastered to his face. He looked back at the women. "Yes, I am. Would you like a picture?"

Excited squeals and jumping came from the women, but I zoned out. Liam Cross. What the fuck? I stared at him. How the hell did I not recognise him? I've watched nearly everything he has done since he started acting.

I never really thought much of him playing superheroes or spies. Then I saw his last movie where he played a magic enhanced warrior, and he entered my fantasies. A strong, rough, capable man of action with a heart and moral code, what wasn't to love?

My God, it really was him. Liam Fucking Cross.

Liam cleared this throat, and I snapped back to reality.

"You're really him," I said.

"Sorry?" Liam cocked his head to one side.

"You're really Liam Cross."

"Oh yeah. I am." Liam grinned.

"I'm sorry I didn't recognise you. I don't know. I guess it didn't even enter my head, even when you said your name."

"And here I was thinking you were playing it cool," Liam said.

I scoffed, and before I could stop myself, I said, "yeah, nah, nothing about me was cool from the moment I laid eyes on you." I wanted to die.

Liam laughed, a proper belly laugh, and his shoulders seemed to bounce up and down. "Well, alright then, you weren't playing it cool. But it's ok. I don't need to be recognised by everyone I meet."

"Yeah, but I should have recognised you. I've seen heaps of your work." Just stop talking, Lana!

Liam waved his hand. "Don't worry about it. Where were we before we were interrupted? Beer garden, you and me."

I nodded. I grabbed my bag, and Liam took our drinks. "After you," he said, gesturing and inclining his head.

As I walked outside, I could feel my skin heat up. It was a warm March night and only slightly humid. A cool breeze was coming in from the harbour. We were close enough to smell the salt in the air.

"Where did you want to sit?" I asked. Only one bloke was having a cigarette outside, so plenty of tables to choose from.

Liam looked around and indicated to the tables down the back. "Down there, I'm less likely to be noticed there."

"That must suck."

"Yes and no. I like that people like my work and want to tell me and meet me. It feels good. It's just that sometimes, like now, I'd like some private time."

We sat down, Liam with his back to the pub. I sat opposite him.

"If you want some private time, why go to a pub?" I said. I covered my mouth. "Sorry, it's not my business," I added.

"Direct, aren't you?" Liam's lips twitched. "I am also here to meet with someone."

"Oh shit, Will." I rechecked my phone. "30 minutes late." I sighed, "I think I got stood up."

"Really? He must be an idiot." My eyes widened. Liam's lip twitched again. Was he laughing at me? "How long have you been dating?"

"This was supposed to be our first date. We met online, been chatting for a few months." My voice was quiet.

Will isn't coming. The realisation hit me, and I felt like I'd had a brick hit my chest. I turned away from Liam. If I was going to cry, I wasn't going to cry in front of him. I'm an ugly crier.

"Oh, Sweetheart, I'm sorry." Sweetheart? It must be an English thing because Will calls me that too. "Have you called him?"

I shook my head. I didn't entirely trust myself to speak yet.

"Why don't you?" Liam asked. "If he has a flimsy excuse for not coming tonight, then at least you'll know where he stands, and you can stop worry about it."

I took a few deep breaths. "I guess you're right." I got my phone out of my bag and stood up, "Give me a minute?"

Liam nodded. Twitchy lips again. What's with that?

I walked a couple of metres away and called Will. I started to pace, glancing at the back of Liam's head every few steps. Liam's phone began to ring. After a few rings, Will picked up.

"Hello Lana, how are you?" He sounded nonchalant. Did I get the day wrong then? No, I was sure I had it right. I had checked his message so many times.

"I'm ok. I am waiting for you at the pub." I paused and looked at Liam. He was on the phone too. "Did I get the day wrong?"

"No, you didn't. I'm here." I let out a breath I didn't realise I was holding.

"That's great. Did you just arrive? Can you see me?" I looked around. I couldn't see him. I looked back at Liam. He was still on the phone but had turned in his chair and was looking at me.

"I can see you. You can see me too," Will said. I turned around in a circle. I still couldn't see him.

"I'm sorry, I can't see you at all."

"I'll come to you then," Will said.

Liam got up out of his chair and walked towards me. Liam was close now, and he stopped. Liam hung up the phone, and the call with Will went dead.

My heart thundered in my chest. I could hear the blood rushing through my body with each tremendous beat. The ground seemed unstable, and I wobbled. This isn't happening. It can't be happening.

Liam bent to my ear, his breath tickling my neck. His lips brushed my skin as he whispered in a low voice, "I'm right here, Sweetheart."

Part 2

[karla-the-elemental-dreamer]

KH-OC Week - Catch Up: Day 3 - (3 AUG 2021)

@khoc-week

For this day, I will be covering 2 prompts: 'Loss' and 'Heartless/Nobody appearance'.

Firstly, for 'loss', I ended up having a dream, which seemed to play on the BBS scene where Eraqus was struck down (so relating to this theme; losing Eraqus; losing someone dear to you). Only in the dream, Xehanort didn't have his way, and the Land of Departure remained in existence. And then it seems like the situation was swapped, and Terra seemed to bring a 'you get what you give' experience to my end:

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

Dream No. M79A - Master Eraqus' Second Chance (24 JUL 2021):

The dream started with me at the Land of Departure, outside, witnessing the cutscene after Terra (KH-BBS appearance) fighting Master Eraqus, for myself. In the same way, Terra went “What have I have done?”, as he then started crying. However, I quickly came and wrapped myself around Terra (now suddenly in KH3 appearance) from behind and closed my eyes, but it wasn’t just an ordinary hug. I seemed to be able to exercise the power to bring Eraqus back to life, that is, if I was able to say the right words (while in the void via Terra) to Eraqus to convince him to come back.

It wasn’t long before Riku (KH3 appearance) came up to me and gently said, “Terra’s grieving”, suggesting I leave Terra and go with him. For some reason, I seemed to trick Riku into thinking I was feeling slightly remorseful that I couldn’t help Terra; I kept to myself that I had already acted, and in a profound way. So for the time being, neither Terra or Riku knew what was about to unfold, and Terra continued to weep outside as Riku took me into the halls.

The dream then seemed to play from a third-person perspective for some time, as Terra walked in, but seemed surprised when he noticed Eraqus standing on the top level. Terra shouted “Master!” as he ran up to the second level to meet Eraqus. With Terra being literally gobsmacked that Eraqus was there, they went into a side area to talk. Terra asked Eraqus, “Was it Aqua?”, in which Eraqus responded with no. “Was it Ven?”, Eraqus said no again. But, realising that Terra couldn’t possibly guess anyone else…

Eraqus continued something like, “It’s someone who has a very special place in your heart. She told me to come back. In-fact I can show you what she said to me”. With Terra closing his eyes, the scene went to when I was in the black void, floating in-front of Master Eraqus as I said something like, “It wasn’t Terra’s fault, Eraqus, please forgive him. (forgotten in the middle), I hope I’ve done enough, and that you decide to come back”. As Terra opened his eyes, there was a quick sub-scene at the front of the halls, of Kairi and I standing side by side as Terra’s voice said, “There’s two princesses of light”.

The dream went back to the main scene, from my perspective again now. I was standing with Riku at the front of the halls as Terra walked out of the side area. I approached Terra, who had a look of awe on his face, as when I was right in-front of him, he wrapped me in a tight hug. The dream camera showed Riku first of all looking confused, but then the awareness of my situation seemed to hit him, and he sighed and gave a close-mouthed smile with the energy of ‘you cheeky dreamer’.

As Terra released me, my phone went off; Terra going to join where Aqua and Ventus were standing, while I went closer to Riku to answer my phone. It was my mum, and she seemed to be crying over the phone. She told me that I had to come home; that my grandma had died. I grew upset and started crying as I approached Riku and said, “we have to go home”, telling him what happened. With a look of sorrow, Riku gave a remorseful groan as he welcomed me into his arms.

After a lengthy hold, Riku released me and I thought we would now be going. But then for some reason, I didn’t know how Riku and I could get home. I looked over at Terra and said that Riku and I could use his help, in which he softly nodded and left Aqua and Ventus’ area. Terra realised what I wanted as he equipped his armour and opened some sort of portal in the room. Like in an earlier dream, Terra got me to sit in-front of him as he leaned over me, while Riku seemed to be hanging from the vehicle like he was holding onto some monkey-bars.

Landing in my house, I went to my mum who was in the front room, visibly very upset at what had happened, while Riku and Terra watched on from the side of the room. And I too ended up crying again at the inescapable feeling that my grandma was gone. After a few moments of me just standing there and sobbing, Terra slowly walked over to me and draped me in another long, tight hug, me now crying on his shoulder.

When he released me, that’s when the dream went to the next scene, but it felt like it was playing as a sub-scene. My grandma was standing in-front of the central heating unit, and was talking, seemingly how she was explaining how she was back. But it sounded weird as she was saying all these complex English sentences, and English isn’t her first language IRL. At first, I was wondering how she came back, but then an energy hit me, and I realised it was Terra. When he held me in the front room, he was returning the favour; he basically did the reciprocal of how I had brought back Master Eraqus for him. After a while of my grandma saying some weird stuff, the dream ended.

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

Secondly, the 'Nobody/Heartless' prompt:

Firstly, my name as a nobody would be Xalkra; and I have my own Organisation XIII. As for appearances, I haven't really considered it much yet. Xalkra would obviously be wearing the black coat. Like Larxene, she has a bratty demeanour and can be quite devious. Xalkra is the leader of the Org, and has the title of 'The Mastermind'. I use my academic gifts and abilities for good things; she uses hers for ulterior motives.

And then in my AU, I have two side main characters, two teddies (a male and a female) called Selvian and Sierra. In adapting them to the KH AU, they are like my Donald (Selv.) and Goofy (Sier.), and we would form a KH trio in itself if the criteria required. I have an archived drawing (from my GIMP days) of the two bears as their nobody forms, Lexavnis and Serrixa. For height perspective, the bears would come up to my pelvic bones:

Today I know more about KH than I used to; and now I understand that the nobodies aren't necessarily fully evil. So if I had to revise their appearance today; I would. Lexavnis and Serrixa seem to have a heartless palette going on here.

With my previous fan-fic AU, Lexavnis and Serrixa would do Xalkra's bidding. In the story, Xalkra said that Selvian and Sierra had to race Lexavnis and Serrixa (our Org can could co-exist at the same time; so like Sora and Roxas), and the prize was the spare vessel that Selv. and Sier. had to try and win to revive/re-create Repliku, after we thought he was killed off in KH3.

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

Bonus (still Heartless/Nobody) - Horace:

I do have other teddy bear OCs, but they don't feature as much as they are not the main two. They would also make up Xalkra's Org 13. There's one bear called Horace, who I have concepted to be an obese bear that doesn't know his limits, so much so that he even goes around and eats furniture (eg. why does your bed only have 3 legs?). He is quite 'dumb', he doesn't speak, just wanders around, 'rumbles' and eats things. Others have to keep him away from objects/structures, and vice-versa.

His nobody is called Raxeoch. Once again, he can't talk, he may appear 'dumb', BUT he is actually smart, otherwise how can he eat things to help Xalkra's motives? Unlike Horace, Raxeoch knows what to destroy. In the fan-fic I wrote, the start of the assault on Riku's Destiny Islands property was when Riku caught 'a teddy bear', trying to stuff a sun lounge chair into his gob. I never finished the fan-fic; I was eventually going to get Raxeoch to eat Riku's (or maybe somebody else's) keyblade.

Let me know if you ever want a drawing to be done of Horace (I currently don't have one).

Edit: Forgot to mention that teddies cannot wield keyblades.

[niawritess]

The Lovestruck~Chapter 10

(4 December Saturday)

10:23 am

"So how was your date?"

You glanced at your bestfriend confused by her sudden question. "Date?"

She nodded enthusiastically. "Yesterday, you and Baekhyun Sunbae went to date, right?"

You brows knitted. "That wasn't a date."

"Why? It was only you and Baekhyun Sunbae tho." She smirked and you rolled your eyes.

"Shut up, that's because Rose couldn't come. Now stop with your nonsense and look ahead." You pointed your chin towards the stage where the rehearsal was going on.

Ria groaned rolling her eyes. "I don't want to look at her! She's showing off her boyfriend more than acting."

You laughed. "Then get a boyfriend for yourself."

"Ha ha! So funny!" She scoffed. "Like it's so easy but you're gonna get it soon."

"What?" Your frowned confusingly as you looked at her to see her smiling mischievously before you realized what was she talking about.

You slapped her arm and glared at her. "I told you not have any weird thoughts about it!"

"What? I didn't even said anything!" She shrugged her shoulders and you shook your head ahead before she giggled at your flustered state.

Later, as you were about to walk out of your campus, you got a call from your brother's school, informing you that daniel has got injured during his basketball game practice and asked to pick him up.

You panicked at first but fortunately he didn't got injured badly and you got relieved before making your way to his school while texting Ria about it.

***

12:56 pm

Arriving at his school, you went straight to the infirmary and saw your brother sitting on the bed with his foot bandaged talking to her classmate which you assumed.

"Good afternoon." You greeted the doctor who was typing on her laptop looked up at you before giving you a polite smile and Daniel did the same.

"You must be Daniel's sister whom i talked to earlier?" She asked and you nodded before she stood up from her chair making her way to Daniel's bed while you following her.

"Is he okay? Is it bad?" You questioned worringly eyeing his bandaged foot and the doctor chuckled.

"Don't worry, he sprained his foot but it will be fine within two or three days after giving it a rest." She explained and you nodded relieved.

"Then can I take him with me now?"

"Yes, I have gave him the pain killer so you can take him."

"Okay, Thank you." You smiled at her and she nodded going back to her desk before you helped Daniel standing up and led him outside.

"Daniel! Your bag!" A girl shouted from the back as you both were walking down the hallway before she approached you and handed him the bag.

"Hello. I'm Daniel's friend, Kim jieun." She grinned and you smiled back before glancing at your brother who's cheeks were a little red as he stared at her making your jaw dropped internally.

She quickly bid her goodbye as she got called by the teacher and you both walked out of the school then back to your home.

Reaching home, you helped Daniel into his room and giving him time to change his uniform before something popped into your mind.

You fished out your phone and opened your contacts searching Baekhyun's number but then you realized that you don't have his number and texted rose instead, asking her if you could take a day off while telling her the reason.

After receiving her text saying yes, you smiled but then you tilted your head to the side confused as why Baekhyun popped up in your head when you don't even have his number. You thoughts got interrupted when your brother called you from his room loudly enough to make you startle and you groaned walking into his room with a thud.

Meanwhile, Baekhyun entered the Cafés as usual before a frown crept on his face as he didn't see you but then shrugged it off thinking you would come later.

Thirty minutes passed, but you still were not here causing him get confused and at last he asked Rose about it then got to know the reason behind your absence.

When she told him about Daniel, he got worried as he has gotten close to him but was also a little bit sad that you didn't tell him, he knows he shouldn't be feeling like this but he couldn't help it.

His day was passing slowly that's what he thought and was feeling lonely too since you were not here beside him so he could talk to you which got him confused as it wasn't the first time you took a day off but it was the first time he was feeling this way.

***

Next day (5 December)

2:24 pm

Time flew by fast with all the hectic day you had in college and now were on your way to the café. Entering the Café, you spotted Rose and Baekhyun behind the counter before smiling as you approached them.

"Good afternoon, Rose!" You greeted her as you stood by the counter causing Baekhyun's head jolted towards you and his face lit up but he immediately masked it with his normal facial expression.

"Hey! You're here and how is Daniel?" She asked.

"He is alright. His foot is getting better now." You replied, walking inside the kitchen to wear your apron and came back before standing behind the counter.

"Hey." You smiled at Baekhyun and he smiled back which didn't reached his eyes like how he always smile which got you frowned wondering if he's in a bad mood and shrugged it off.

However, the whole day he was being the same, giving you a nod or hum if you were asking something. He didn't really talked which led you think if he is mad at you but you haven't done anything wrong which you could think about.

You wouldn't admit it but you got a little bit sad with his sudden cold behavior but didn't let it get to you, thinking he's just in a bad mood and without you even realizing it was already closing time.

Rose closed the café and drove off to her home before bidding goodbye to both of you. Now Baekhyun and you were standing beside eachother in silence which you were hating and hence decided to break it.

"Sunbae?" You called him out and he looked at you as he was facing ahead. "Are you upset with me or something?"

"What?"

"I don't know what happened but you didn't talked to me like you do today, have I done something wrong?"

Baekhyun looked at you with wistful eyes and bit his lips before looking away while letting out a exhasperated sigh. He doesn't even know why he is feeling like this and now he's feeling apologetic towards you by his behavior.

"I'm sorry, it's just today I was kind of in a bad mood." He explained and you nodded in understanding while feeling relieved.

"Honestly," He started making you look at him. "When you didn't called me, I mean about Daniel like we have gotten close you know, I kind of got a little sad as I thought we became friends or is it just me who thinks that?"

"No! We are." You immediately replied and his eyes lit up before you scratched the side of your neck. "The thing is, I also wanted to tell you but then I realized I don't have your number."

Realization hit Baekhyun and he closed his eyes turning his head opposite direction of you, feeling embarrassed before looking back at you and you both stared at each other before chuckling.

He suddenly held out his palm towards you and you stared at it perplexed before glancing back at him then at his hand and high-fived it.

He looked at you incredulously before shaking his head. "I meant your phone."

"Oh." You bit your lip smiling sheepishly before fishing out your phone and gave him.

He typed something and gave it back before his phone started ringing and picking it up he saved your contact.

"Baekhyun."You mused looking at the name as he has saved his number as in your phone and he smiled at how his name rolled off your tongue.

"Yes, Baekhyun. I know you would have saved it as Baekhyun Sunbae and its too formal to save a friend's name like that." He explained and you smiled as he was right.

"Then what did you saved my name as?"

He held up his phone showing your contact info with your name written as 'Coffee bean'.

"Seriously? Coffee bean?" You frowned and he giggled causing you smile automatically before a thought crossed your mind.

"Wait, so were you sulking about it the whole day?" You looked at him amused and he blinked feeling heat rushing to his ear.

"No, I wasn't." He looked away feeling embarrassed and you smiled finding him cute before looking at your watch.

"I have to go now, Daniel must be waiting for me."

"Okay, i'll walk you home today since Daniel won't be coming."

"No, it's okay. I can go by myself." You refused not wanting to bother him and he looked unsure to send you alone which you noticed.

"I have been coming back and forth alone for a while so, it's fine." You assured him hoping he wouldn't insist anymore and he he didn't.

"Alright, but text me when you get home." He ordered and you almost laughed feeling as your dad was ordering you before nodding.

"You too, go home safely."

He nodded still hesitating before you walked away from him while he was still standing there watching your figure disappearing in the street.

Not long before, he walked over his car and got in before starting the engine while on the way his phone buzzed and taking his phone out, he checked the caller ID showing 'Coffee bean' which made his lips stretched in a smile.

However, his smiley face turned into a frown as it hasn't been even five minutes since you both parted ways and you couldn't have reached home in that short time.

As he answered the call, he couldn't even utter a word when he heard your shaky voice. "Someone is following me."

He immediately pressed the brake vigorously bringing his car come to halt with a jerk before comprehending your words. "Are you okay? Where are you?"

You bit your lip feeling scared as you can hear the footsteps behind you getting closer causing you walk more faster and heart beat increasing rapidly before you pressed your phone more close to your ear.

"Um, I'm close to my home but he- he is still following me." You stuttered breathing heavly making Baekhyun more worried and scared as he was already, before he started the engine coming over to you.

You brought your hand to your bagback which was hanging on your shoulder before reaching out and took out the paper spray while ready to kick the stalker.

"Y/n!"

You heard a familiar voice calling you out and tilted your head to see Jenna coming out of the convenience store walking towards you making you relieved as you rushed towards her.

"I'm safe now." You told Baekhyun who was about to make a U turn but sighed in relief before stopping his engine.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes, I'm with my neighborhood aunt."

"Okay, text me when you reach home."

After hearing your reply, he hung up and leaned his head against his seat while closing his eyes before exhaling deeply making his heart steady which was beating fast till now.

Never in the dreams, he imagined that his heart would be at the verge of jumping out because of a girl. He has never got this scared and this relieved before you entered his life. What were you doing to him? That was the thing he wondered before driving off to his home.

On the other hand, the man which you thought was stalker turned out Jenna's husband Alaric who was coming back from the walk.

"Seriously! Alaric, you scared me!" You complained calming your heart and Jenna slapped his arm before side hugging you while he scratched his back apologetically.

"Did I scared you? I'm sorry." He patted your head and you sighed.

"I was about to spray the paper spray on you." You told him making both of their eyes widen before you three walked towards your house as their house is opposite of yours.

Reaching home, you bid goodnight to them before walking inside and saw your brother in the living room playing video game. You rushed towards him and threw your arms around him and he flinched with your sudden act before you pulled away sitting straight.

"Did something happen?" He asked pausing his game before staring at you concerned and you shook your head not wanting him to worry.

"Nothing, I just miss mum." You replied honestly what you were feeling right now and he nodded sighing.

"Then call her."

"Eung, i'll wash up first and will make dinner." You stood up and ran upstairs to your room.

You entered your room before throwing your bag on the bed with yourself with a deep sigh swinging your legs side slowly before you grabbed your phone and texted Baekhyun.

You: I've reached home and sorry for troubling you.

Not getting a reply, you assumed he's busy so you got up and walked towards your bathroom to change and freshen up.

Baekhyun got out of his washroom in his pajamas after washing up and hung his towel around his neck before walking towards his bed and grabbed his phone from the nightstand.

Unlocking it, he saw your message on the notification bar and checked it before replying.

Baekhyun: No you didn't. You sure you are okay?

He was waiting for your reply but getting a voice from downstairs calling his name, he placed his phone on the bed and walked out of his room.

***

11:48 pm

You were lying on your bed staring at the ceiling and thinking about earlier which made you shiver. Although it wasn't a stalker but the scary feeling you had that time was still there, not letting you sleep as it kept appearing in your mind.

"Should I watch something to distract myself?" You muttered before grabbing your phone from nightstand and was about to play a drama but got interrupted as you got a text from Baekhyun.

Baekhyun: Are you asleep?

You: No, why?

Baekhyun: I texted you but you didn't replied so I was worried.

You frowned before scrolling up a little to see his message and immediately replied him.

You: I'm sorry I was busy so couldn't check it.

Baekhyun: I texted you but you didn't replied so I was worried.

You frowned before scrolling up a little to see his message and immediately replied him.

You: I'm sorry I was busy so couldn't check it.

Baekhyun: No problem, but do you often sleep late?

You: No, I sleep early but I can't right now.

He didn't reply making you frown and you almost assumed that he fell asleep or something but then his text appeared.

Baekhyun: Can I call you?

You blinked immediately sitting up before leaning against the headboard while contemplating what to reply as you're more of a text person.

On the other hand, Baekhyun bit his lip tapping his phone with his fingers wondering if he scared you or something before you texted back.

Coffee bean: Sure.

A smile made his way to his lips before you instantly got a call from him making you jump as you cleared your throat and answered the call while placing your phone to your ear but didn't said anything.

[Hello? Y/n, Are you there?]

[Uh, yeah sorry.]

[If you're not feeling comfortable, we can just text.]

You smiled. [No, it's okay.]

Baekhyun hummed leaning against the headboard. [Are you feeling better? You must have been scared.]

[Yes, I was and whenever I'm scared or something I always talk to mum but she isn't here.]

["Oh, I'm sorry.]

You frowned as his voice sounded a little sad before your eyes widened.

[What are you thinking? She's in scotland with my dad.]

Baekhyun sat up feeling embarrassed. [I'm so sorry, i thought-]

You chuckled. [It's alright.]

He smiled. [Well, at least you laughed, but you have to be careful now and did you told Daniel?]

You sighed. [No, he would feel guilty then and don't worry I carry pepper spray with me which I almost sprayed it on a innocent person.]

[Innocent person?]

[He wasn't stalker but my neighbor and I can't believe this happened second time.]

You mumbled the last sentence which was loud enough for him to hear.

[The stalker thing?] Baekhyun asked worringly.

[No, no. Actually I was on a family trip and there I felt someone following me and I sprayed the pepper spray on him but turns out he was the manager of the guest house we were staying in.]

You heard his laughter on the other side causing you roll your eyes before you lay down comfortably.

[Then what happened?]

[I got scolded by my parents and apologized to him but the whole week he stayed away from me.]

He chuckled. [Well that's how you are.]

[What do you mean?]

[Don't you remember that man at the Café? You totally scared him away.]

You bit your lip feeling embarrassed and heard his chuckle making you automatically smile. You both talked for minutes without even knowing and felt yourself getting sleepy as you let out a yawn while feeling your eyelids heavy.

["Y/n?]

Baekhyun called you but didn't got response but instead heard your soft snores from other side causing his lips stretched in a smile and cut the call before whispering softly.

"Good night, Coffee bean."

_____________

@wooya1224 @buttercupbbh

[sick-in-luv]

Yandere!Alien (Atlas) Pt1

A/n:Got this idea and just had to write it👽

Warnings⚠️: gore?

'So this is what they meant when they said humans are made of stars' Altas thought,scoffing as his hands dug deeper into the open chest cavity of the man laying in front of him. The smell of iron was heavy in the air as blood pooled around them,staining the overalls Atlas had taken from him

"ꉓꂦꎭꍟ ꂦꈤ! ꀤ ꀭꀎꌗ꓄ ꈤꍟꍟꀸ ꌩꂦꀎꋪ...ꍏꃅ ꃅꍏ!" The man was still alive,his quick breaths coming out gargled as blood gathered in his mouth. Atlas moved his hand up into the man's throat, his fingers wrapping around his larynx.

He pressed his pointed nail into the soft tissue,a glowing green liquid flowing into the mans veins,spreading across his face and neck. Atlas sighed as he watched the man squirm,his strength slowly fading.

"ᖘ꒒ꍟꍏꌗꍟ ꌗ꓄ꂦᖘ ꎭꂦᐯꀤꈤꁅ ꃅꀎꎭꍏꈤ. ꀤ ꂦꈤ꒒ꌩ ꈤꍟꍟꀸ ꓄ꂦ ꓄ꍏꀘꍟ ꀤꈤ ꌩꂦꀎꋪ ꒒ꍏꈤꁅꀎꍏꁅꍟ ꍏꈤꀸ ꌗᖘꍟꍏꀘꀤꈤꁅ ᖘꍏ꓄ꍟꋪꈤꌗ. ꅏꂦꈤ'꓄ ꌃꍟ ꒒ꂦꈤꁅ." True to his word,Atlas moved his hand out of the man only a few seconds later,a satisfied smile on his face.

"There! Ain't that much better?" He said gleefully,testing out his new voice,the slight southern drawl making him pause. "Weird,not what i expected it would sound like after i heard you scream."

Atlas shook his head " well I guess it doesn't matter. Now,lets close you up shall we?" He smiled,moving to stand up and walk back to his landing area to find the tool he needed.

He froze however when he heard a click,followed by something cold and hard pressing against the back of his head.

"M-make one move and I'll blow y-yer goddam brains out!" Atlas sighed and stood up,hearing the person behind him gasp and stumble backwards, falling over and dropping his gun in the process.

Atlas turned around and looked down at the terrified man,blinking in surprise as he saw the striking resemblance between him and the other man who was barely clinging to life behind him.

"D-demon" Atlas heard the man mumble as he picked up his shotgun,pointing it at the 7ft tall blood coved figure in front of him. "Y-you killed my brother"

Atlas frowned,trying to find the right words to tell the man that his brother wasn't dead. He moved forward only to stop when he heard a loud bang,followed by a seering pain in his side as the man pulled the trigger.

👽👽👽👽👽👽👽👽👽👽👽👽👽👽👽👽👽👽

You always loved coming to visit your uncle. His small cabin in the woods was so peaceful,a huge change from the city life that you were used to.

There was nothing but farmlands and forests for miles, so apart from the occasional sound of an animal,it was quiet.

You were alone in the cabin. Your uncle left earlier to go to work,leaving you to do what you wanted until he came back.

Of course, there wasn't much to do,so you opted for sitting in front of the old box tv in the livingroom,eating microwave pizza and trying to solve crossword puzzles

It wasn't much,but it kept you entertained. The TV was only on for backround noise,but occasionally something interesting caught your eye,like when the news broadcaster started talking about a foreign object entering orbit.

It didn't hold your attention for long though,because soon after she said that the signal cut out,leaving nothing but static on the tv. You sighed but didn't bother to try and fix it, only shrugging before going back to your puzzle.

About half an hour and 3 puzzles later you decided to go to bed,seeing as your primary source of entertainment was down and you already finished the last slice of pizza.

After a short shower,you threw on a oversized t shirt and went to brush your teeth,moving sluggishly through your suitcase to find your toothbrush.

After finally finding it along with your mouthwash and hairbrush,you moved back to the bathroom. You desperately tried to keep your eyes open as you moved the toothbrush through your mouth,nearly falling asleep at the sink before a loud bang sounded out outside.

You let out a short scream,your toothbrush slipping through your fingers as you jumped. You scrambled to try and catch it only to loose your footing and fall over backwards,hitting your head on the side of the tub.

You sat there for a second,toes curling in pain as your hands shot up to where your head was throbbing.

The pain subsided after a few seconds,and you cursed your neighbors for thinking it was okay to start shooting at this hour of the night,slowly standing up and making your way back to your room.

"Stupid Clive and his stupid guns. It's 2 am for god sakes. I'm gonna give him a piece of my mind when i see him again that no good little-" you stopped abruptly as you heard something shuffling outside.

"Whaaaatt the fuck" you whispered to yourself,slowly moving towards the front of the cabin to peek out the window. You grabbed a phone on the way,getting ready to call your uncle if it was something serious.

Pulling back the plaid curtain,you scanned the dimly lit porch,holding your breath in anticipation.

Once you were certain that there was nothing there,you let out a relieved sigh,moving to close the curtain and finally go to bed,when a very large blood covered hand slammed against the window.

You let out a scream,your knees going weak, once again sending you towards the ground. You grabbed the phone,filled with adrenaline as you started dialing your uncles number until-

"H-help. Puh-please! I-I need help" you paused putting the phone down and listening. You heard a pained groan followed by a weird chittering noise.

You slowly got onto your knees,peeking out the window,passed the bloody handprint,to see a person laying on the wooden porch,covered in blood.

"Oh shit!" You ran towards the door,not even hesitating as you threw it open,rushing towards the person.

"Oh shit oh fuck a-are you okay? Oh damnit! come on lets get you inside." The man groaned and sat up slowly,and you had to keep yourself from gasping at not only his height,but also the mess of unnaturall, almost glowing neon green hair on his head,almost completely covering his eyes.

"Holy shit." You heard the man let out a pained chuckle "wow your teaching me all sorts of new words"

You raised your eyebrow,wanting to ask him what he meant when he let out another groan. "Ah,lets get you to the bathroom yeah? We got a first aid kit in there i think." You quickly stood up,throwing his large arm over your shoulders and trying to help him up. He must've noticed your struggle, because he let out another chuckle and supported more of his own weight, only occasionally leaning on you as you led him to the bathroom.

It was only when you saw him under the florescent light when you noticed that his skin had a strange greenish hue to it,and he was wearing clothes that didn't really seem to fit him properly. You paid no mind to it as you helped him sit down on the toilet,frantically scrambling to find the first aid kit.

"What happened to you? You look like you were run over." You cringed at yourself. You really didnt mean to sound so blunt but you were still filled with adrenaline from the big ass scare he gave you.

"A silly human shot me with his primative weapon. Unfortunately i couldn't reach my ship in time to grab any of my healing supplies or any proper covering so i opted for finding the nearest form of civilization."

You paused at his words,slowly turning to look at him,first aid kit clutched in your shaking hands. You looked up at his tall form sitting calmly with his hand pressed against the wound in his side,his jet black eyes looking straight into yours.

Wait a minute

Black eyes.

"H-human? Ship? What the fuck are you on about my guy?" He smiled sweetly,showing off his razor sharp teeth. Al three rows of them.

Your eyes widened as you slowly backed away,causing his smile to fade. "Oh! Oh nono no human don't look so afraid! Im not here to hurt anyone! And I'm certainly not going to hurt you after you let me into your home"

You shook you head and stood still,not letting your gaurd down just yet. "How do i know your telling the truth? What are you?"

He made a little chittering noise,moving a bit of neon green hair out of his eyes. "Ah yes. I forgot your species hasn't had any public outside contact yet. My name is Atlas. I am what your kind know as an 'extra terrestrial' or an 'alien' or whatever" he stood up,slowly moving towards you.

He stopped just inches away and bent down to look you in the eye,his own black orbs glistening in the light. "As for the whole truth thing,well I really don't have any reason to lie to you pet."

He placed his large hand over the first aid kit,gently pulling it from your grip and moving closer towards your face,his nose brushing yours. You felt heat rise to your cheeks as he sighed softly.

"Your a good little human right? So i really have no desire to hurt you." He suddenly stood up straight, making you squeal softly. "But i do really need you to help me repair my injuries."

You let out a breath that you didn't know you were holding,before looking up at Atlas,who was struggling to open the box,turning it over in his hands multiple times.

After taking a few more deep breaths,trying to process everything,you giggled softly making him stop and look at you.

"What are you doing?" Atlas huffed and felt around the box again. "Where is the scanning device?? How do you open this stupid thing??" Your giggles turned into full blown laughter as you took the box from him,pressing the small latch and opening the box.

He looked at you in awe for a second before crossing his arms. "Primitive human devices" you snorted as you laughed harder ,bringing your hand up to your mouth to try and stop the noises.

Atlas gave you a deadpan look scoffing and sitting back down on the toilet. Once you calmed yourself down enough,you moved over to him. "Wow i can't belive i was terrified of you a second ago" you smiled pulling down the straps of his overalls.

He scoffed again and bared his teeth. "Oh you should be terrified now little human. Lauging at my struggles. How dare you" you laughed again,before lifting his shirt amd kneeling between his legs to be eyelevel with his wound. "My name is (Y/n) by the way. Not "little human" you stared in slight surprise at the odd dark blueish color of his blood before grabbing a rag from the box and covering it in rubbing alcohol.

Atlas made a noise as you pressed the alcohol covered rag onto his wound,leaning back to grant you more access.

He hummed as you continued to clean the wound,a small smile on his face. "I'll call you whatever i want little human" you looked up at him,confused at his happy tone.

"Doesn't this hurt? Why do you look so happy?" Atlas chittered again and looked down at you "I like the burning."

You blushed a bit and opened your mouth to say something before a loud knock came from the front door.

"Damnit what now?" You stood up slowly,throwing the rag in the sink. "Just be quiet,they'll think no ones home." You grabbed a bandage from the box and went to bend down again and finish fixing his wound before a familiar voice stated yelling at the door as the banging continued.

"(Y/n)! You in there? It's Clive! Ya gotta get out here i think that thing made its way into your house!" You raised your eyebrow and looked back at Atlas.

"Thats the human who shot me. He must've followed my blood the cretin." You sighed and put down the bandage "I'll be right back okay? Just lemme go take care of this."

You only got so far as the bathroom door before you felt arms wrap around you,pulling you back. "No! Your MY human. I wont allow that disgusting cretin anywhere near you."

You looked up at Atlas,who had his teeth bared. He was starting intensely in the direction of the front door,where the banging now turned frantic,along with the voices.

"Atlas just let me get him to leave. I won't be long i promise."

He looked down at you,his eyes gleaming dangerously. You squimed a bit,feeling his grip falter as you pulled out of his arms. "I-ill be right back okay?"

You pushed him back into the bathroom,closing the door behind you and making your way over to the front of the house.

"I'm coming Clive calm down." You sighed as you opened the door,putting on your best 'just woke up' look. "What do you want? Its really late."

Clive looked panicked. His flannel shirt was covered in a mix of dark blue and crimson and he had a shotgun in his hand.

"(,Y/n)! Thank God your okay! I was bouta break down the door cause i thought somethin' happened to ya. Theres somethin'out here. A demon or somethin'. It killed Marcus. It killed my brother" you stared at Clive as he sobbed,not sure what to do.

He couldn't be talking about Atlas right? He said it himself,he didn't come here to kill humans. You looked back at the bathroom and saw Atlas standing there,a feral look on his face. "Fuck" you whispered moving outside and closing the front door.

Clive calmed down and looked at you confused. "S-sorry Clive. I haven't seen anything. But if you want I'll call the cops for you okay? Or the ranger?" Clive ignored your frantic words and tried to move passed you to the door

"Are ya hidin' it in there? You are arent ya? Let me in there (Y/n). I'm going to kill that fucking thing!" You moved in front of him

Trying desperately to stop him from going in.

"Wait Clive you can't just-" you squeaked as he grabbed your arms trying,throwing you to the side and opening the door,his gun ready.

He moved into the house and you scrambled to get up and stop him,only to be pulled back down,a hand covering your mouth.

You looked behind you and saw Atlas glaring at the door,his sharp teeth bared. He picked you up and threw you over his shoulder,you groaned a bit as his shoulder knocked the wind out of you,and Clives frantic footsteps could be heard rushing back towards the porch.

Before he made it out the door,Atlas had already started running across the open field in front of the house.

You heard Clive yell something before running out after you,but at this point it wasnt likely for him to catch up.

"A-Atlas where are we going?" He let out a grunt and stoped,putting you down but not letting go of your arm. "We're going to my ship. That stupid human ruined everything. And he has the gull to blame me for his brothers death? Honestly."

You stumbled after him,desperately trying to keep up. ""S-so you didn't kill his brother?" Atlas scoffed. "Of course not. That idiot just got on the way before i could

Heal him."

You raised your eyebrow as he finally came to a stop,letting go of your arm and dashing towards the green and blue pod that stood on a scorched plot of grass. "What do you mean heal..."

Your question died in your throat as your eyes landed on what you recognized to be Clive's younger brother Markus,laying on the blood stained grass with a blank look in his glassy eyes. His chest was ripped wide open,displaying all of his organs.

"He got in the way of my ship before i could grab the device i needed to heal him. I never meant for him to-" Atlas looked up from his pod,having already found what he was looking for to heal his wound,only to see you backing away,tears slowly dripping down your face.

"Hey. Whats the matter? Huma-" Atlas was cut off when you turned around and started running back towards your cabin. He let out a low growl before sprinting after you,catching up in a matter of seconds and grabbing your arm.

You struggled as he turned you around,trying to get you to stop squirming. "Listen! I didn't kill him!" You struggled more as you heard Clive's voice in the distance,screaming for you.

Atlas growled again and pushed you to the ground,pinning your arms to your sides. "I didn't kill the human,but if you don't stop struggling right now I AM going to kill that one."

You instantly stopped,looking up at him with tearly eyes. "Wonderfull" Atlas said,picking you up once again and carrying you towatds his ship as Clive came into veiw.

"I didn't lie to you human." He started,gently placing your shivering form in his ship. "I didn't come to this dirt planet to harm any humans." He got in next to you and you could only watch as the ship fired up,flashing bright blues and greens before slowly starting to hover,just as Clive showed up.

"I came here to find a pet."

[dzifasblog]

Chapter 3

Word Count:900

https://dzifasblog.tumblr.com/post/656153095221477376/chapter-2

Amelia, just as expected, came as soon as siesta period was over. She looked so excited, and I could hardly blame her.

She had been eager to finally flex her director work on something major for her college application, and shooting the video for the school's cheerleading squad would be a good stepping stone to filming for the varsity teams.

"Gosh, I am so excited! If this goes well I might actually shoot for the hockey team pr maybe....even the football team" she gasped, shutting her mouth with her hand as soon as the words came out. "I don't want to jinx it."

I wanted to roll my eyes at her antics, but I knew this was very important to her. It was the only thing that stood between her and a smooth sailing into filming school. That was why I couldn't bring myself to call Magdeline out on insincerity earlier, Amelia needed this, and I was not about to ruin it for her.

It was also the reason I walked to Amelia's house and back. Well, I also wanted to get away from Magdeline and her laser eyes that always seem to hold me in place. But a bigger part of it was helping Amelia get over her anxiety on our way here.

I walked into the room with Amelia behind me, Magdeline and Mimi Sanchez (head cheerleader) were engaged in a heated debate. Which probably started as soon as I went to collect Amelia from her dorm. The two girls cut their conversation as soon as they saw us. Magdeline flashed a dazzling smile our way;

"Amelia, we are so glad you could make it." She practically cooed.

Such a charmer.

Not!

Amelia beamed at them. "Yep, I got everything here." She patted her side bag.

"That's great! Well, I'll be leaving now. Got to hit the books." Tossing her bag on her shoulder, she started making her way towards the door which we were standing in front of.

I was content with ignoring her till she left, but I didn't have that privilege. She brushed her entire body against mine on her way out. Leaving with nothing but the scent of her floral perfume stuck in my mind.

As it turns out, Amelia didn't really need to do any shooting today. She and Mimi hashed out a schedule and their goals for the project. All of which took about 40 minutes.

Amelia left, she had to send the camera's back to the AV room. With nothing left to do, I pulled out the Jackie Collins book from my bag and lay on my bed to read. About 10 pages in, Mimi got up announcing she had a cheer meeting. Leaving me to my own devices.

I tried going back to the book, but my mind was suddenly plagued with thoughts of Magdeline. I didn't think she would want much to do with me after that night, but I was wrong. There was also the issue of me not being gay, or at least not knowing I was gay. I had a whole boyfriend, for Christ’s sake.

It's not like he ever satisfied you. My traitorous brain was right, Lance sweet as he is had never brought me anywhere close to a climax, but that doesn't mean he deserved to be cheated on. I had to put a pin into this entire Magdeline business, there wasn't going to be a next time. 

"What are you thinking so hard about?" Speak of the devil. I was so deep in my musings that I hadn't heard the door open. Magdaline's eyes darkened as she looked my entire body over. Her gaze making me feel hot in ways I definitely shouldn't.

"Back from the library so soon?" I said, trying not to clench my thighs together.

"It got boring," she said, sliding beside me. My nostrils were attacked by her floral scent, and it had my resolve weakening. "I figured there were much more interesting things to do here." Her voice was so husky, and she was so close to me. Steeling my resolve, I sat up in the bed to put some space between our faces.

"Magdeline, we need to talk." I almost cringed at the desperation in my voice, but I knew it needed to be done. "I have a boyfriend."

I wasn't sure what reaction I was expecting from her, but a laugh wasn't one of them. I'm not sure what, but it annoyed me. "What's so funny?"

"I'm sorry, but I really do not care about that," she got out between laughs.

"But I do, what I did last night was wrong, and I feel bad." My outburst seemed to have sobered her up.

"Look, I like you, but I'm not going to force you to do something you don't want. It's not me." She sat up and turned my head to look at her. "Just say the word and I will never bring it up again."

"And you'll leave me?"

"I was never holding you," she said with her eyebrows raised. "We can be friends. That cool?"

"Yeah, friends is cool." I say with relief. We can be friends and I will still keep my boyfriend and everything would go back to normal.

A part of me knew things would not be normal after this, but I just squished it and reached out to hug Magdeline.

[jokertrap-ran]

(未定事件簿) 莫弈 SSR [心悬一线] [Tears of Themis] Mo Yi SSR [Heart hanging by a Thread] Card Story Translations (Part 3)

*Tears of Themis Masterlist / Mo Yi’s Masterlist *Spoiler free: Translations will remain under cut *Smoldering Mo Yi is...an experience.  *Next up: 小陆总 !! ...After I finish the Video Call aha-

Part 1 / Part 2 / Part 3 / Video Call

Location: Forest

He didn’t pay any heed to my protests, heading back towards the Suspension Bridge. Soon, he returned with the Supply Box in hand.

MC: (Thankfully, it was only threatening but not dangerous...)

MC: Sorry, Dr. Mo, for getting you involved in all this today.

My heart had almost leapt out of my throat when he turned and went back to the bridge.

Thinking about it, Mo Yi and I shared the same feelings when we saw the other party alone on the bridge.

Mo Yi: It's fine; as long as you're safe.

Mo Yi: Your injury needs to be seen to as soon as possible. Let me have a look at it.

☆⋅⋆…⋅─────────── ⋆⋅✾⋅⋆ ───────────⋅…⋆⋅☆

MC: !!!

Mo Yi knelt before me, opening the Supply Box and taking out the medical supplies.

I lowered my head and found his silvery hair before me, fluttering gently along with the gentle breeze that blew through the Mountains. It looked absolutely soft.

He held my injured leg up in front of him, treating it as carefully as one would a treasure. Taking off my shoes and socks, he gently turned my ankle, his slender fingers passing on warm touches. 

Mo Yi: Does it sting?

He raised his head, fixing me with a serious look, eyes filled with care.

MC: No...it doesn't…

Mo Yi: Looks like your bone wasn't injured from it.

Mo Yi: I'll help you disinfect it so bear with me for a while.

He lowered his head back down, slowly but carefully rubbing the wound with alcohol.

MC: Ngh…

Mo Yi: Did I hurt you?

Mo Yi: Sorry, I'll be gentler…

He blew on the wound that had just been cleaned by the alcohol, bringing about a refreshing feeling to combat the stinging pain that came with it. I could feel my cheeks heat up for no reason at all. Flustered, I quickly stopped him. 

MC: It's fine Dr. Mo... just...just bandage it already.

He smiled, taking out the bandages and skillfully wrapping the wound up for me. After handling the wound, he sorted out the supplies as I blushed and thanked him. 

☆⋅⋆…⋅─────────── ⋆⋅✾⋅⋆ ───────────⋅…⋆⋅☆

MC: Thank you, Dr. Mo.

Mo Yi: There's no need for you to be so humble with me. The wound you sustained is on your leg, so it wouldn't be terribly convenient if you did it yourself.

Speaking of wounds, the question that had been lingering in the forefront of my mind earlier resurfaced once more.

MC: Oh, right...how did you end up coming all the way here to find me?

Mo Yi: Since you've already agreed to wait back there for me, there's no way you'd have just upped and left for no rhyme or reason.

Mo Yi: And your personality is such that you won't break an agreement just over your own personal issues.

Mo Yi: So, once I saw Ji Tang's reopened wound, I guessed that you must have gone off in search of the Supply Box.

MC: Haa… You didn't come back after so long, so I thought that you must have been held up by something.

MC: And Ji Tang's wound couldn't just be left alone as it was since it'll be even more troublesome afterwards if it got infected.

Mo Yi: What you did was correct.

Mo Yi: That area isn't far from the bridge, so I thought that you'd head there.

Mo Yi: Needless to say, I managed to find the marks you left behind on the trees nearby.

Mo Yi: So, I followed the marks to you.

Having said that, he frowned, looking at me a little sternly.

Mo Yi: I don't blame you for leaving the place, but don't hide it from me the next time you're injured.

Mo Yi: If you must know, it’s dangerous to be scratched by decaying wood.

Mo Yi: Thankfully, your wound isn’t so deep as to require a Tetanus Shot.

I lowered my head, looking at the carefully bandaged wound and feeling a little downtrodden about it.

MC: I had originally wanted to use this to treat Miss Ji’s wound, but I’d never have thought that I’d end up using it on myself…

Mo Yi: It’s my fault for not being able to hurry back faster.

Mo Yi told me that it had taken a long time to find a place with signal, which had greatly exceeded his initial expectations.

Eventually, he finally managed to get the line through to the Staff, but no one was picking up.

And that was why he had been delayed for so long.

Mo Yi: I did say that I don’t blame you for it, but when I rushed back there and saw neither hide nor hair of you, I...

MC: Sorry, for making you worry.

Seeing the sweat beading on his forehead, I lowered my head apologetically.

Mo Yi: Thank god…

MC: Hm?

Mo Yi: Nothing, it’s just great that you’re okay.

☆⋅⋆…⋅─────────── ⋆⋅✾⋅⋆ ───────────⋅…⋆⋅☆

We sorted out the contents of the Supply Box, deciding to give part of it to Ji Tang and take the rest along with us.

After that, we followed the trail I had marked back. Soon, we reached the place where Ji Tang was.

Ji Tang looked relieved to see both of us back.

Ji Tang: Dr. Mo! I thought...I thought you wouldn’t come back anymore…

Her eyes were filled with surprise and her words were tinted with accusation. Seeing the supply box that Mo Yi held in his hands, she moved to shyly tuck her hair behind her ear.

Ji Tang: You found the Supplies? That’s great, Dr. Mo!

Although the bandage that had been wrapped around my leg was conspicuous, she didn’t seem to have noticed it at all.

Mo Yi: ……

Seeing that Mo Yi wasn’t replying to her at all, she pursed her lips, a pleading look on her face.

Ji Tang: I was especially scared just now when neither of you were here.

Ji Tang: I accidentally reopened my wound and now it hurts so much…

Mo Yi: And why did you think that I wouldn’t come back?

In an utterly rare display for someone like him, Mo Yi unceremoniously interrupted Ji Tang.

Ji Tang: Because...Because I let this little girl up and leave on her own…

She hung her head, wringing her hands together as she stuttered.

MC: I left on my own?

Ji Tang: You suddenly said that you were leaving and I...I should have stopped you.

MC: Miss Ji, I was only going to look for medicine for you. And in your eyes, that was me, leaving of my own accord?

Ji Tang: And how would I know that you had really gone off to look for medicine for me…?

I was so mad at her words that I laughed.

MC: Miss Ji, you really “never cease to amaze me”!

At this point, I had completely reached the last straw of my patience when it came to talking to her.

MC: Forget it. Let’s go, Dr. Mo.

The moment she saw Dr. Mo turn to leave together with me, she threw another fit. 

Ji Tang: Wait, you-! You...you guys are just going to leave me alone here like this?

Mo Yi: I’ve already contacted the Staff. They’ll send people nearby to come fetch you.

Mo Yi: According to my calculations, they should be here within 15 minutes or so.

Mo Yi’s self-control made him keep a calm and level tone with her, but it was painfully obvious that he, too, had gotten angry.

Ji Tang: Did I do something wrong, Dr. Mo? Why must you treat me so?

Mo Yi: If you didn’t throw a fit, neither would she have had to leave alone, nor would she have gotten injured.

Ji Tang: And how would I know that she’d go off and get herself hurt… She has a compass on her, along with food and water. She’ll be fine alone.

Mo Yi: Same goes to you. You have food and water on your person, so nothing will happen to you even if you sit here alone.

Ji Tang was shocked speechless by his one line, stunned and unable to utter another word.

Mo Yi: She got injured for your sake, but you pretended to turn a blind eye to it. Instead…

Mo Yi: Instead, you’ve been overly affectionate towards me right from the start. Do you really think that I wouldn’t see through your motives?

He placed the Supply Box next to her, eyes filled with contempt.

Mo Yi: You shouldn’t lust after someone who doesn’t belong to you.

His words made my heart skip a beat, but Ji Tang was still present, so I had no time to savor the moment.

MC: The Supply Box contains everything you need. There are also a few Flare Guns, should you require it.

☆⋅⋆…⋅─────────── ⋆⋅✾⋅⋆ ───────────⋅…⋆⋅☆

Seeing Mo Yi and I turn to leave, Ji Tang struggled as she attempted to grab the corner of Mo Yi’s clothes, only for him to move sideways to avoid her.

Ji Tang: I know what I did was wrong, Dr. Mo!

Ji Tang: I did say things that I shouldn’t have said, and I shouldn’t have kicked up a fuss either.

Ji Tang: But...you-! You shouldn’t treat me like this!

Mo Yi: Why?

A blush formed on her face, her words a little hasty.

Ji Tang: Because… you’re like a Hero to me, one who appeared out of nowhere!

Ji Tang: You were so nice to me, even going so far as to comfort me...]

Mo Yi: That was just me, the Doctor, and my compassion for the injured.

Ji Tang: Then why would you remember me, of all people, among the many other Participants in the Event? What else could this be, if not fated?

Mo Yi: Remember only you? Haha, don’t get it over your head. I simply wanted to confirm your identity at the time.

Mo Yi: People like you who don’t know their own place and don’t know how to be grateful disgust me.

Ji Tang: W-What…?

He faced Ji Tang with a smile, but it didn’t reach his eyes. Instead, his gentle voice and faint smile were as sharp as knives.

Mo Yi: I’ll repeat myself again; you shouldn’t lust after someone who doesn’t belong to you.

It was my first time ever seeing him this angry, so much that it unsettled me a little.

MC: Let bygones be bygones, Dr. Mo. I’m sure you’re already tired out from all the events that have transpired these couple of days. Being angry at her will only do more harm than good to your health.

Ji Tang: Wait! Wait a minute…! Doctor Mo!!

Ignoring Ji Tang, Mo Yi patted my arm comfortingly and led me out of the area.

☆⋅⋆…⋅─────────── ⋆⋅✾⋅⋆ ───────────⋅…⋆⋅☆

Location: Forest

MC: You rarely get that angry, Dr. Mo…

MC: I hardly lose my temper with ignorant people, but I certainly did lose my composure today.

MC: I never thought that you would, either…

He halted, turning round to face me seriously.

Mo Yi: Did you perhaps think that I was mad because of the attitude she had towards me?

MC: Was it not? I feel like you aren’t always so… cold to people.

Mo Yi: I most certainly hate her, not because she was going after me, but more because she had placed you in danger.

MC: ……

MC: I’m partially at fault too. I shouldn’t have let her lead me by the nose like that.

Mo Yi: You’ve already done well enough.

Mo Yi: Not only did you manage to find the supplies alone, but you also remembered to leave marks behind to mark your way.

Mo Yi: Others might not have done as well as you did.

MC: Haa… You’re always like this, never wanting to put any blame on me.

Mo Yi: Actually, I too, have a question I’d like to ask you.

MC: What is it?

Mo Yi: If we had a chance to re-do all of this, would you still have chosen to stay with her?

His question made me pause. I mulled over it seriously for a while before laughing helplessly.

MC: Miss Ji might be a handful to get along with, but considering the circumstances back then, I think I’d most likely choose to stay behind again.

MC: Life is the most important thing in the world, so even if the outcome isn’t exactly satisfactory, it still won’t change my own principles in handling things.

Mo Yi: I know. Actually, one of the reasons why I agreed to let you stay behind earlier was because I wanted to see what you would do, when faced with someone like her.

MC: So, do I pass?

Mo Yi: No matter what outcome, you’ll still stick with your own beliefs. However, that’s not to say that you’re lacking in principles and won’t compromise...

Mo Yi: This is the answer you gave me. Not only did you pass with flying colors, but you’ve also even exceeded my expectations.

The sun had been a little skewed at this time, and the golden sunlight filtering through the leaves illuminated Mo Yi’s face, making his smile even warmer.

☆⋅⋆…⋅─────────── ⋆⋅✾⋅⋆ ───────────⋅…⋆⋅☆

Two weeks later.

Location: Library

After coming back from the Treasure Hunting Event, Mo Yi and I were both back in Stellis City, absorbing ourselves back into our work.

On the weekend, I had come to the Library to return the books I borrowed when a familiar voice suddenly sounded from behind.

Mo Yi: What a coincidence, (Y\n). You’re here at the Library too?

MC: Huh? Oh, Dr. Mo!

Mo Yi: Here to return books? What have you borrowed?

Looking at his inquisitive gaze, I hurriedly hid the books behind my back. But my hand slipped…

The books fell to the ground with a thud.

Mo Yi picked up the fallen books and his expression morphed into one of surprise upon seeing their respective titles.

Mo Yi: “Love Psychology”? “Behavioral Psychology of Love”? You’re reading these books?

MC: (He saw them… how embarrassing this is...)

MC: I’m actually not borrowing them on a whim.

☆⋅⋆…⋅─────────── ⋆⋅✾⋅⋆ ───────────⋅…⋆⋅☆

Location: Base Camp

Back when we had been preparing to return to the City, I had caught sight of one of the Security Staff that had been responsible for the search back then. I asked him about Miss Ji’s situation.

MC: How’s Miss Ji now?

Staff Member: Miss Ji’s alright now. Thankfully, her bone wasn’t fractured.

Staff Member: It’s a sad story, really. I hear that it was her first time participating in such an Event, and she even got abandoned by the partner that she had initially been acting with…

Staff Member: But I heard that this Miss Ji got along swimmingly with one of the members of the rescue team that she had been in the care of!

MC: ???

Staff Member: Man! The Hero saving the Damsel in distress; I’m sure you know of it!

☆⋅⋆…⋅─────────── ⋆⋅✾⋅⋆ ───────────⋅…⋆⋅☆

MC: I had originally thought that Miss Ji came to like you because of the Suspension Bridge Effect…

Mo Yi: The Suspension Bridge Effect?

MC: Yup. I once heard you talking about it and thought that it quite resembled the situation that Miss Ji was in.

MC: But after hearing that she had come to like another guy in such a short span of time… I can’t help but to doubt myself if I had just guessed it wrongly…

MC: But even if it isn’t the Suspension Bridge Effect at play, her current boyfriend’s still someone who had taken care of her while she was placed in a predicament.

Mo Yi: You couldn’t understand it no matter how much you mulled over it, so you borrowed these books?

Seeing the smile that played at the corner of his lips, I nodded awkwardly. He lowered his head and flipped the book in his hands.

Mo Yi: This book is easy to understand, but not in-depth enough.

MC: Then what do you think of this?

Mo Yi: You’re correct. Miss Ji was in fact, under the influence of the Suspension Bridge Effect when she thought that what she felt was love.

Mo Yi: But these feelings are not true love.

Mo Yi: In the end, the Suspension Bridge Effect is only, but a misunderstanding, so these emotions of hers will be short-lived.

Mo Yi: Once out of the environment that resulted in it, this illusionary love will also dissipate along with it.

MC: So, the reason why she was able to move on so quickly was...because the Suspension Bridge Effect wore off?

Mo Yi: Her original personality also probably had a part in it.

Mo Yi: It’s possible that her original personality had a part in it.

When talking about this topic, Mo Yi's words held no emotion. It was as if Ji Tang was simply a Case Study to him, and not someone that we had actually interacted with.

Mo Yi: How did you feel, back when we were on the Suspension Bridge?

MC: What?

Mo Yi: Did your heartbeat speed up when you were on it together with me?

MC: !!!

MC: N-No…!

He suddenly sprang a question at me, and I didn't quite know how I should answer it. 

But enthusiastically denying it would only expose my true feelings.

I looked at Mo Yi, hesitating for a moment before deciding to tell him the truth. 

MC: (I can't hide my thoughts from him anyway…)

MC: Seeing you suddenly make an appearance back there actually felt... like something right out of a dream.

I adverted my eyes away from his face and tried to get ahold of my emotions.

MC: I actually couldn't bring myself to really any further, but with you there with me, I felt like it wasn't that scary anymore…

His eyes fell upon me and he could see that I was quite broken about the matter.

MC: You can just laugh at me if you want…

Mo Yi: Why would I?

MC: ……

Mo Yi: Have you felt right from the start that this reliance you have on me was caused by the Suspension Bridge?

MC: Your guess is right on the dot as always…

Mo Yi: What about now? Do you still think that it was due to the Suspension Bridge Effect?

MC: No, I've finally thought it through and understood it. This kind of trust is something that's been slowly built up over a long period of time.

MC: You've always been helping me, so that's why I'd think of you whenever I'm scared. This has nothing to do with the Suspension Bridge Effect at all.

A smile spilled across his golden orbs upon hearing my words.

Mo Yi: You think of me when in danger, and the name you call, is also mine. For that, I am extremely happy.

MC: D-Doctor Mo! Did you...overhear…?

Mo Yi: Mo Yi. The name that you yelled back on the Suspension Bridge was undoubtedly mine.

MC: !!!

MC: That was just something that slipped out in a moment of panic…

Mo Yi: I still think that it's way better when you call my name, rather than calling me Dr. Mo.

MC: !!!

Mo Yi: And as to whether this is all a result of the Suspension Bridge Effect at play, you don't have to worry. Only time will tell.

☆⋅⋆…⋅─────────── ⋆⋅✾⋅⋆ ───────────⋅…⋆⋅☆

The warm sunlight poured into the corridors, the white clouds in the sky slowly morphing, changing their appearances.

The afternoon breeze that blew through the windows were exceptionally cool, almost as if it had sensed the heat within my heart.

What Mo Yi said was right. Leave it all to time, and time will tell.

——𝔉𝔦𝔫.——

[sainadazai]

Chapter 2

There was a certain essence of security in the fact that one kid would be sent home today, still there was a horrible feeling inside you that you'd be the one leaving.

There was no reason for you to fail, Mr.Aizawa didn't seem to be singling anyone out, though.

That alone made you nervous, if he didn't have someone specific in mind, then it was free reign whoever would be booted at the end of the day.

Bakugou threw a softball more than seven hundred meters, you were sure your primary school record was less than 30 meters. With your quirk you didn't need dense muscle, it required lean muscle and mostly on your back.

Manipulating the state of matter in metal wasn't really difficult, but lifting it with your mind was.

Even more, it was especially hard to keep it in its semi-liquid state while you manipulate it. Cause many people have conjuring quirks, hell probably somebody in this class had a quirk that could make things, yours was just also limited to one specific material.

It took a long time to perfect your own unique fighting style. You didn't wanna be like cementoss, or Best jeanist, although they were great heroes.

Being a carbon copy of a hero that already has existed served no joy to you, you were y/n, and that's who the world oughta know.

Was that really gonna help you now, though? What were these eight tests he was talking about?

test one: 50 meter dash

Should be easy enough, why use your quirk on something you already excelled in during school. Y/n L/n - 100 meter dash - 12.67 seconds. It couldn't be hard to half that at least, maybe even quarter it, you wouldn't use your quirk here.

You really need to stop underestimating people, in your heat, the first at that, were Tenya Iida and Tsuyu Asui. The boy was well built, muscular, tall and his legs seemed to have engines in them. He was sure not a good match to make you seem strong or fast.

The girl had long, green hair and beautiful round eyes, she seemed to have some sort of frog hybrid quirk. Probably much faster than you as well. Not really the best time to second guess yourself, you already assessed this test. No quirk. Don't waste your energy.

Ugh, but shouldn't heroes go a hundred percent all the time? God this was infuriating.

"Go"

Well, there you have it, first day and you're already overthinking. Without letting your worry get to you, you sprinted towards the speedometer hoping you wouldn't get discouraged by the fast boy in front of you. The air flowed against you, pushing your hair back. You had forgotten about the tension air creates when you run against it, but it didn't matter. As quickly as it started you heard Iida's score, the Asui's, but you knew 50 meters was easy. You knew you were fast even without your quirk, you would prove it.

"6 seconds"

"Without a quirk?"

"What even is her quirk?"

"I don't know, she wasn't in my exam."

The others after you seemed to be faster than you too, even if by seconds. However, it was helpful to learn exactly what their quirks were.

Uraraka- zero gravity

Iida- engine

Bakugou-explosion

Knowing all this made you unique compared to them, because now, you know their quirks and how they work for the most part, but only a few even can guess yours. Maybe it won't help you too much now, but in the future this knowledge will.

Test two: Grip strength

Easy, this can be done without even touching that little machine, but sure, you'd give me a show.

"Woah, you hit 500 kilograms?! You're such a beast"

The boy with extra arms seemed to do well on this, you could obviously guess why. Still, you had no fear at all in this test. What were they thinking putting an object entirely made of metal and wires in your hand? Rigged in your favor to be honest.

You took the contraption in your hand, avoiding the eyes of the few watching you to see what your quirk was. Jokes on them, cause with this test, it'd take a genius to tell. Applying a decent amount of pressure from your hand, you began to feel all of the particles in the tiny machine, moving them closer and closer together. Pushing them down with each breath out. Until the machine beeped.

12,000kg

You almost smirked at that, you technically didn't have that much plain grip strength, but the teacher said use your quirk, anything goes.

"Twelve thousand!? No way!" the yellow haired boy spoke with astonishment, not anger, but the words felt accusing,

"sorry.."

The students were left dumbfounded. However, at the mention of such a high number, todoroki began to seek out your face, he recognised the girl who had tried to speak with him earlier. Looking at the floor and avoiding the quite obvious compliments, he couldn't help but feel it wasn't out of modesty.

Test three: Standing long jump

The ring on your finger would serve well enough for this one, removing it, you liquified the metal ring until it was a non-Newtonian liquid- or a liquid that is solid under pressure. It soon multiplied until it was around a foot high line of liquid metal, then you curled it into a spring shape. Jumping straight up you landed both feet on the outer edge of the spring and flew into the air launching it with you and quickly turning it back into a tiny ring around your pinky finger.

Then apologizing again as more questions floated in.

Next was repeated side steps, then ball throws. By then, the other students had acknowledged the uncomfort you seemed to have around them, and only admired from afar.

To others the ball throw seemed like the most important test, but it didn't really feel like that to you. Despite having some restraint, you wanted to be the best in every test. Well, maybe not this one, after the gravity girl sent a ball to infinity.

Still, you held the softball, all eyes on you, not feeling so shy, considering you knew these were supposed to be your friends, you wanted them to like you, more than anything. So you would just have to woman up soon.

You tossed the ball to yourself a couple times, feeling for any metal particles, baseballs were usually full of string on the inside, maybe that would work? No, too risky for now.

Feeling pressure to hurry, you took a quick glance around, locking eyes with the boy who sits by you. He still was stone faced, but looked a little intrigued to see what you would do. Was he curious about you? He was so strong though, you'd seen it earlier. Well, best live up to expectations.

No luck with metal in the ball, but there was plenty all around you: iron in your blood. Taking your pointer fingernail, you scratched a quick cut on your opposite palm, maintaining eye contact with the boy. His stiffness faltered for a second, confused and maybe worried at your actions.

Quickly you dragged your blood out of the cut in a thin, rope-like flow, wrapped it around the ball, and took a deep breath. Then you closed your eyes, just how you taught yourself to, and imagined the blood pulling the ball into the air. Arm swung back and ready you released the image along with a throw high into the air.

Continuing to focus on where your blood would take it, you imagine not a place, but a number, and a force. Applying that force to the blood and ball, long lost in the sky, you finally sighed out and looked around, waiting for a score.

Your peers seemed confused about what had just happened, all except for the red and white haired boy, he seemed to have caught on to some extent.

"1,609 meters"

"A mile, exactly? How?"

"Your blood? That doesn't match up with everything else you've done today!" A girl with recognizably large breasts and thighs spoke, she was gorgeous. Hair tied up in a black ponytail, and even her voice sounded sophisticated.

"Uhm-"

"If you say sorry one more time i'm gonna blast you to space, ya hear me!?"

The fire boy, Bakugou screamed at you, and you would have been scared, but it actually made you feel comforted. The realization that people here were not asking for your apologies.

"Yes sir." you winked.

Why did you wink? Did you forget you weren't talking to mochi? A yellow haired boy, whose name you thought was denki turned red and fainted. You felt incredibly stupid, and flustered, and mad at yourself for slipping like that.

"AAAaaa im so sorry, pleaseforgivmeidontknowwhatiwasthinkingwinkingayoulikehatwhenyoubarelyknowmeohnopleasedonthatemenowimsorryimsorrymochiwillyellatmelater!" you screeched out, falling subject to your now loose personality.

Then you went to hide among the crowd of them, slowly shrinking in on yourself.

The next one up was the green haired boy, Deku? That's what bakugou called him, right? You didn't know you were standing next to shouto todoroki, but he sure knew he was standing next to you.

He wanted to confirm his suspicions about your quirk, and also he subconsciously wanted to know what a conversation with you would be like. You didn't seem too eccentric, or obnoxious like some of the kids here. Plus for some reason you were flustered at any and everything,and well, it was stupidly adorable.

Todoroki shouldn't be thinking these things, but he is. On the first day of school no less.

It seems, though, you weren't the star of the show today. He tore his eyes from you at the sound of your gasp. The boy who hasn't used a quirk all day had thrown the softball barely a few meters. So how did he get in? He seemed nice enough, but it sparked the question, how would someone quirkless make it to the hero course?

Or maybe he wasn't, it seemed, the teacher had nullified whatever quirk he tried to use. They were talking for quite some time, until Mr.Aizawa removed his restraint on the kids quirk and he was left to throw.

His lips pursed, deep in thought. Deku really had to get this one right. There may not be a better place to apply his gifted quirk. He really didnt wanna go home, either, so this was it.

Blinking, he thrust his hand back and before you could process what was happening an incredible force of wind flew back on you. The ball launched high into the air, a trail of pure power following it. You didn't take your eyes off that ball until it dropped. A puff of dirt flying up around it.

705.3

So you looked back to the boy, eyes wide just like everyone else, and your eyes found a bloodied purple finger. Broken in every sense of the word. Deku, though, was smiling, the brightest smile you'd ever seen. Proud. He was proud of himself. What could you be but proud of him, too?

You'd known him less than a day, spoken to him all but once, but his smile was pure. You used to smile like that when you were working out your quirk in the forest behind school. It was beautiful.

"Awesome.." you whispered through a smile clad lips.

Teeth white and shining under the sun, and todoroki heard you. Even looked down(or up) at you. He wanted to see that smile again from you, and for the love of god he couldn't tell himself why....

A/n this isn't a deku fic but I love him, and it IS his show, so- don't be surprised if i write about him like he is the most precious gorgeous blessing on earth.

[katedrakeohd]

This is for you @sirbeepsalot 🌹🥀🌺🌻🌼🌷⚘

I've had a bunch of asks in my inbox forever and need to finally get around to them. I was inspired by @drakeandcamilleofvaltoria and her one shot about Drake meeting Camille at her flower shop. I went in a totally different direction, but hopefully this little story is just as fluffy. 💗

....

Paint me a Picture 🎨🌷🌼

Drake hummed happily to himself as he stepped out of his office. He had just finished a conference call with his fellow council members finalizing the plans for Kate's upcoming baby shower. They had put off the party for the past two months amid fears of the Coronavirus spreading into Cordonia. Kate's due date of March 12th was fast approaching and they had reached the decision to reduce the guest list to under ten people. This suited Drake just fine because he wasn't much of a party person, plus Kate found too much attention and fussing around more tiring than exciting at this point.

Checking his watch, Drake realizes that his call had taken him well into the lunch hour and he was quite hungry. The plush carpet of the stairs muted his footsteps as he descended toward the main hall. He could feel the empty space blanket him in its silence, and he wondered where Kate, Hana and the corgis were.

When he had last seen Kate that morning she had been reorganizing the supplies in the nursery for the fourth time. He had chuckled at her restless nesting and kissed her on the cheek before leaving to make his phone call.

"Go get some fresh air and sunshine, it'll do you good."

Kate sighed, rubbing her aching back. "I guess so. I wonder what Hana's up to this morning."

Drake shrugged, "Send her a text to come get you and take your mind off baby stuff."

"Thanks, I will."

..

As he turned the corner toward the kitchen, Drake could smell toasting bread, and the delicious aroma of chicken soup. His mouth waters and he swallows, breathing deeply as his stomach rumbles. The sound of laughter, clink of plates and drawers opening and closing made him smile. Over the past 8 1/2 months the kitchen staff had become familiar with Kate's unusual cravings at all hours of the day. Early on she had wanted salty snacks, and then halfway through her second trimester her cravings had her wanting sweets, during the last month she had started combining the two in odd ways. It made Drake shake his head in wonder, but he obliged her desires. And if Kate was happy, Drake was happy.

Walking into the kitchen unnoticed, he sees the staff loading up a tray with a platter of sandwiches, and a pitcher of iced tea.

"Good afternoon Ladies," he says, and the laughing chatter amongst the women stops.

"Lovely day indeed, Your Grace." Marie the head cook replies with a smile.

Drake eyes the sandwiches on the platter hungrily. He could imagine sinking his teeth into the golden toasted bread, and hearing the crunch. "Are these for Kate and Hana by any chance?"

"Why yes they are. They're taking lunch in the sunroom. I can add another drinking glass and another plate if you'd like to join them."

Drake nods, "That would be wonderful. How about if I take lunch to them then?"

Claire, the young kitchen helper, protests as she sees Drake reach for the tray. "Oh my goodness, Your Grace, let us do that. You go on ahead and we'll bring lunch to you. "

Drake grabs half of a sandwich, "Well, if you insist. I'll just take this to go then, thanks."

Turning around to leave the kitchen Drake raises the sandwich to his mouth and checks the contents before taking a bite. Lettuce, tomato and a slice of swiss cheese. Not bad, but could use some bacon.

..

In the sunroom the atmosphere is that of a bright summer's day despite the dull late winter landscape outside. Lush greenery, tropical flowers and golden sunshine fill the space and give it a pleasant warmth. Off to one side, chair cushions are clustered together on the tiled floor. At the moment they're serving as lounges for sunbathing, sleeping, corgis; but earlier the cushions had served as a comfy surface for a gentle yoga session for Kate and Hana. Now the two friends were standing at easels and painting, chatting back and forth about what to hang in the nursery.

"So you and Drake still don't know if you're having a boy or a girl right?"

Kate nods, "As much as I want to know now, it's still a mystery. Our doctor knows though."

Hana purses her lips in thought as she dabs some blue on her canvas, "So do you mind if I paint a gender neutral landscape instead of flowers?"

"Not at all. I'm still sticking with flowers though. The ones in here are just too beautiful not to paint. If it doesn't suit the theme of the nursery I'll just hang it somewhere else."

Hana rinses out her brush, setting it aside and selects a different one to line in some happy little trees in a dark brown. "I suppose Drake is hoping that you have a little boy."

"He won't admit it, but of course he does. He's itching to go camping and fishing, to kick a football around, toss a baseball with a son."

With a shrug Kate draws in some green stems on her yellow daffodils, "Of course these are all activities he could do with a daughter as well. I remember tossing around a baseball with my Dad in the backyard."

Opening the door and stepping into the sunroom Drake is met by the wall of heat and fragrant scent of flowers. He immediately feels overdressed as a trickle of sweat runs down his neck. "How do you ladies stand it in here?"

Kate turns away from her painting to look at Drake, "Oh Hi Honey, welcome to summer in March."

Under the shade of her Sun hat, Kate is wearing one of Drake's old denim shirts as a painter's smock, the sleeves rolled up to her elbows. There's a green smudge of paint on her cheek. Drake notices that it appears that she's wearing little else other than flip flops.

"Uh, Kate? Are you naked under my shirt?"

Kate giggles, covering her mouth, putting another smudge of green on her face. "No silly. I'm wearing a bikini top and shorts." She glances down at herself, "I can see it looking that way though."

Hana is wearing a short summer dress, and her own Sun hat. "You look a little warm there Drake. I wouldn't mind if you decided to take off your shirt."

Kate snickers as she goes back to her painting, "Yeah Honey, don't be shy."

Drake clears his throat, loosening his top two buttons and rolling up his sleeves. "I think I'll just open a couple of windows instead."

Kate watches Drake crank open a window, appreciating the flex of the muscles in his forearms. The fresh air blows the fabric of his shirt against his chest, making it stick to the sweat on his skin. She realizes that he isn't wearing a tee underneath. Probably why he was reluctant to remove his shirt in Hana's company. Drake notices her watching him and gives her a wink as he walks across to open another window. "So what are you ladies painting today?"

Kate feels the cool breeze brush the hair off the back of her neck and she shivers with delight. "Thanks honey, I didn't realize just how warm it was getting in here."

Drake does a quick bow with flourish of his hand, "Always pleased to be of service, Your Grace."

Hana giggles, "We're painting flowers and landscapes, to answer your previous question."

Drake settles down on the floor with the corgis, resting his elbow on a cushion and rubbing a belly as one dog happily rolls over. "I have the pleasure of informing you ladies that iced tea and sandwiches are also on the way, for our lunch."

Hana wipes her brow, "Anything with Ice in it would be welcome right now. I first experienced cold tea when we were in Texas for Savannah's wedding. I wasn't sure if I'd like it."

Kate sighs, "Mmm, I love lemony iced tea in the summertime. I miss it from being back home."

Drake's stomach growls again, causing one of the corgis to give him a look and then retreat to a spot in the shade, "Sorry Fluffers, didn't mean to disturb you. Don't worry I'm not hungry enough to eat you, close but no."

"I could go for a big bowl of spaghetti and meatballs right now," Kate says wistfully as she paints a tomato red poppy onto her canvas bouquet.

Drake groans, folding his arms behind his head as he leans back on the cushions and closes his eyes, "Oh stop, you're just making me more hungry."

Kate bites her lip, "Ooh, or pizza. A nice big slice of ole New York thin crust with extra cheese."

"STOP IT!" Drake barks out a laugh, chuckling as he wipes the sweat off his brow. "I ate half a sandwich on my way here, and it's really tasting like another half right about now."

Kate wipes her hands on a rag, "Ooh, what type of sandwich?"

Drake shrugs, "I dunno, there was cheese and some lettuce in there, maybe tomato?"

Kate kicks off her flip flops and walks across the warm floor tiles to stand over Drake, casting a shadow across him, hands on her hips. "And you didn't think to bring the rest of the sandwiches with you?"

Drake cracks an eye open to look up at his wife, his face scrunching up in amusement at her paint smudged face and raised eyebrows. "Hey, I tried to take the tray with me. But I don't think the girls in the kitchen trusted me to get the sandwiches this far without eating a few."

Kate nudges his leg playfully with her foot. "So true. We've all seen how much you like to eat."

Drake growls playfully, reaching out to grab for her ankle but she steps back out of his reach, "Can't help it if I'm a hungry man, c'mere you. I bet you taste like chicken."

"Nah ah, if I get down on those cushions with you I might never get back up. I'm going to wash up my hands and then take a seat over there at the table. Besides I think cannibalism is frowned upon in Cordonia."

Drake smirks at her and rolls over on his stomach, watching her walk away. "Mmm, golden fried chicken. You know how much I'm a breast and leg man."

Hana bursts out laughing, "Geez guys get a room."

Continue on to the next part