#hes a real fancy guy w a smooth voice

[mechawolfie]

anyway. here's a guy I'm drawing (he's a wizard)

[around1302]

XIV. CHEAP WINE

SPARE PARTS: a series (14/20)

PARIS, FRANCE

(W) strong language, alcohol use, oral (female receiving), (implant protected) sex, fingering.

5k of a lot of angst and pining, so beware lol

a/n yes i did link a visual of one of the sex positions i describe (not porn, real educational stuff i swear) because i felt like i was doing a shit job of explaining it. IN MY DEFENCE i’m a lesbian. idk how straight positions be working, okay!

THIRD PERSON’S POV

Harry can narrow down where he realised he had it a little too bad for Charlie Greene to roughly one moment. 

Circa 2016, when they were freshly recognised and began the recording process of their first album. When they were all still practically strangers, suddenly flung into this new world of songwriters and producers and media scrutiny. When Harry was late to their first ever recording session, and Charlie ripped into him so hard even Paula (ambitiously taking on five teenagers with mediocre talent and a dream) had an ounce of respect for her.

All he remembers was standing there in his ugly (but defensibly comfortable) purple trainers, fists shoved into an old hoodie pocket, jaw clenched and mouth set just… watching her. She was so stressed out and so mad, but Harry couldn’t give two shits. All he could do was stare at her mouth and imagine what it would be like to leap forward and shut her up with his own.

But he didn’t. Harry made a dumb joke about how hot she looked in that top, and decided to make dumb jokes every time he had that same urge. That all-consuming, stomach-churning urge that he thought would die the more he told himself to hate her. He managed to half convince himself she was nothing more than a stuck-up princess who only ever cared about whether he was late or high or covered in hickies he thought would work as a cover for any cracks.

Which they did. A little too well.

It’s why Harry’s watching her laugh with Zayn from behind her glass of red, and why he can’t do anything about the way Zayn’s eyes undress her in that dress. Fuck, that dress. Harry hasn't been able to let his eyes wander for more than two seconds at a time, because this is a fancy establishment and his trousers forgive nothing. Every time his gaze trickled down the neckline or to the creases that tugged at her waist he felt my trousers tighten, forcing him to cough and shift and think about something else till he can’t help but steal another look.

Around 0.2 seconds into his allotted time, Amelia’s chair squeaks against the floor and her ring tapping the edge of her wineglass silences the table. Harry’s eyes stay on Charlie a beat longer across the table, watching how she shifts in her seat and gives him a whole other angle to ache after.

He coughs and shifts and thinks about something else.

“I just wanted to say that I’m so proud of you guys,” Amelia keeps her voice low, despite the vacancy of the restaurant. There has to be a maximum of five other tables in here, considering the group stayed three hours after their last bites. “It’s been amazing to watch you all grow over the last six years, and to see it this close up is such an honour.”

Niall looks at Amelia like he could propose right there and then. Harry feels a twinge of jealousy he mislabels as happiness for his friends.

“And to Poppy,” she holds her glass in Charlie’s direction. Harry steals another glance. This time, though, his chest lurches in a different way. Her eyes gloss over and her lips twitch in that wobbly way that says she’s holding back a sob, “she’d be so proud of you, babe.”

Charlie smiles sadly, tilting her head as if saying the words ‘thank you’ aloud would burst that lump she’s visibly trying to swallow. So, Harry reaches for his glass to do it for her.

“To Poppy.”

Charlie’s head whips to face his, a tear escaping her and running a path down her cheek. Harry holds her stare, nodding toward her as everyone raises their glass in a cheer.

Then his eyes flicker lower, to the jewels encompassing her smooth neck, and his mind flashes to a few hours ago.

Returned from the graveyard and sprung with the news they’d all be going out to some sophisticated dinner in Poppy’s honour – Charlie called Harry in her room for a rant. Her subconscious would call it company, but she would never dare admit that.

Harry willingly complied, posted up on the bed while Charlie flurried around her room in a tornado of glitter and dress options and heels, whining about how going to a fancy dinner is the last thing she wanted to do and that she loves her friends – she really does – but how can they make this same mistake so many times?

Somewhere between grumbling about the uncomfortablity of stilettos and the way the airlines had tarnished the floral scent of her favourite perfume, Charlie struggled with her necklace. Harry, eyes lasered to her every movement, had been staring at her fingers tangling with the metal for five minutes before he had to do something about it himself.

“Here,” he mumbled, his tone somewhat annoyed as he rose from the bed and stood behind her in the mirror. He shooed her hands away, ignoring her confused mutterings to focus on the task at hand. 

Charlie, albeit brows furrowed and a line of questioning stuck in her throat, just… watched him. She didn’t even notice her lips curling as his forehead crinkled and his tongue poked at his bottom lip in concentration, and she definitely didn’t notice the sigh that left her lips when he locked her necklace in place and trailed his knuckles lightly against the open back of Charlie’s silk dress.

When he looked up to meet her gaze in the glass, he fought a smile at the way she was looking at him. It made his stomach twist and knot and he knew he was only tumbling deeper into the rabbit hole with every second he held her stare, but he also thought he’d die if he looked away.

“What?” Harry deadpanned, trying to regain some lucidity.

Charlie bit her lip, dimming her grin as she turned and thumbed at the curls straddling his collar. Harry swallowed thickly.

“You know, we could just not go to this dinner.”

“We have to.” Harry lilted, his attempt at biting that smile back starting to fail.

“Do we?” Charlie toyed with the material of his shirt, swaying him closer. He inhaled sharply, hands flying to her waist as her perfume (which, to him, was most definitely not tarnished) swallowed him whole.

“I sometimes think you’re trying to kill me, Greene,” Harry nudged her nose, kissing her chastely once on the lips before preserving with some self control, “res' is at eight, hurry it up.”

Blinking back to the bleak reality of realising he was an idiot for not taking up Charlie’s offer, Louis says the best thing Harry’s heard all night.

“Anyone fancy shots?”

“M’trying to fuck the guy in the black suit, y’think I have a chance?”

Harry smiles, trying not to laugh at Charlie in the middle of this badly lit bar. They (finally) moved from the restaurant to the first place they could find, which happened to be this kind of dingy looking dive bar down the street from their hotel. Trashy, but apparently not enough to stop them from welcoming the sticky tables and knock-off vodka.

Charlie’s had a few more than the rest of them and has been leaning into Harry’s side of the crimson booth, adorned with holes and stretch marks, for the last ten minutes, feeding him the worst pickup lines he’s ever heard.

It’s so far been the best ten minutes of his life.

“You know,” Harry shifts, moving his arm so it rests behind Charlie’s now slightly mussed curls tangled from the dancing with Amelia and Niall only half an hour ago. Her sleepy eyes drift into something tranquil, safe - something he could relax into and get lost in - but he keeps his cool, “if you keep hitting on the guy in the black suit, you’re going to scare the poor fucker away.”

Harry’s lying. He knows that. She knows that. Not a thing in the world right now could drive him away. But she gasps dramatically and feigns offence regardless. He bites his bottom lip to try and reign his grin back a bit.

He fails.

“Y’think m’comin’ on too strong?”

Harry squints, pinching his index finger and thumb and trying his hardest not to imagine what it would be like to pinch her chin. 

“Well,” Charlie abruptly stands, swaying slightly. He rushes to steady her waist, but pulls his hand away before anyone can see. Everyone was already confused by the day they spent together, the whole ‘crying in his shoulder at a graveyard’ ordeal. A tipsy hand on the waist would completely screw them, “in that case.”

Harry’s chest doesn’t drop until hes sees her palm find Zayn’s bicep by the bar while he talks to someone serving drinks, Zayn’s interest in the bartender seemingly dropping the second Charlie touches him. Harry’s jaw tightens and he clears his throat to stop any stupid, responsive lump forming. His eyes harden on the contact – the way she makes him instantly laugh, the way he tucks one of those stray curls behind her ear, the way he looks at her like she made the sun.

“Es-tu seul, mon amour?”

Harry’s gaze tears away, landing on someone tall and blonde and fucking gorgeous, but he can still see Zayn and Charlie laughing together in his peripheral and his retinas burn beneath the sight.

“Sorry, I don’t speak French.”

He can’t even bother to convincingly lie about his knowledge of the language. He knows this mystery woman is asking him if he’s alone, and he knows she’s about to offer one of the drinks in her hand up. Harry looks at Charlie and Zayn again.

“Mind if I sit?”

He pokes his tongue in his cheek, waiting for Charlie to look back at him with a playful glint, some sort of hope or hint that she’s only messing with him and she’s going to come back to him any minute.

She doesn’t.

“I’d love it if you did,” Harry forces himself to smirk, “one of those for me, darling?”

The group had been dropping like flies for the last hour. Niall and Amelia had left after they had gotten predictably close to fucking in the bar’s bathrooms, and Liam had to take Zayn back to the hotel after one too many shots. Louis has been in the corner with a brunette, flirting badly yet oddly successfully for the last ten minutes. Leaving only Charlie and Harry at war with each other.

It started when Charlie turned and saw Harry with the girl who bought him a drink, smile on her face, expecting to see him seething with jealousy. When that wasn’t the case, an unfamiliar feeling of something undiagnosed bubbled within her chest, and she sought out the first person (who was not Zayn) who would make Harry feel like she had.

That was roughly an hour ago. 

Now, Charlie’s dancing against a stranger to shitty jukebox music and Harry’s doing a terrible job of pretending to be apart of the conversation he’s meant to be having with a girl he’s pretty sure is a done deal.

Except he doesn’t want her. The girl he wants is grinding her ass against some sleezebag’s boner while he gawks at the fact a woman that beautiful would actually give him the time of day. Charlie’s eyes, hazy, have been set on Harry’s the whole time. Her teeth sinking into her bottom lip every time she saw his throat bob or his jaw tighten, letting that bubble in her chest melt with every solidification Harry is dripping in jealousy. His fist is clenched so hard around his glass it’s a surprise it hasn’t smashed, and when the poor girl speaking to him says something else he can’t be bothered to faux-listen to, he brashly apologises to go and rip Charlie away from her toy.

“Hey, man!” The guy, tall and broad and the blueprint of all Chads, booms as Harry grips Charlie’s bicep and pulls her away from the asshole. Despite the desired effect being achieved, Charlie frowns and yanks her arm from Harry’s harsh grip, his rings already having left blush indents in her brown skin.

“Charlie, quit playing. We’re going.”

Harry’s never liked that feeling of jealousy. He could never place it before – but now he realises that was because he was stuck for years unable to do a thing about it. In this moment, a moment where he can do something about it, all he wants is to get away from this suspect bar and fuck some sense into her.

“No, you’re not the boss of me,” Charlie had sobered several gross men ago, and in all honesty wanted nothing more than to leave. But she has a point to prove, God dammit. Whether that’s to herself or Harry, she’s unsure, but she’s going to prove it regardless.

“Let her be, dude. We were havin’ fun.”

The guy’s American, and Harry can’t help but roll his eyes at his Texan drawl as he tries to assert some all-man, all-masculine dominance. It’s so unbelievably predictable.

“You’re not allowed to tell me what to do, remember?” Charlie spits, forgetting entirely about the guy behind her. Harry was halfway through staring daggers into his soul before his gaze drops to Charlie. “No strings and all that. Go back to whoever you were planning on fucking tonight.”

“Charlie, you’re drunk–”

“I’m in a bar, dad. Fuck off.”

Harry can’t help but laugh. Bitter and humourless, but shit can he not do this anymore. 

“Yeah–”

“Shut up!” The two of them shout simultaneously, Charlie being long tired of this guy who two minutes ago was gripping her waist a little too tight, breathing down her neck a little too heavily. He was gross, and not her main concern right now.

“Jesus,” Chad murmurs, ego deflated, “crazy bitches out here.”

He saunters off in search of another mission, leaving Harry and Charlie at the bar.

Harry licks his lips, running his hand through his hair as he tries to collect what he wants to say. He doesn’t want to do it in this bar, in this situation, surrounded by the potency of cheap alcohol, but he knows better than to try and drag Charlie out again – so here it is.

“I get you wanted no strings,” his throat runs dry, “but that’s just not very fucking realistic anymore, Charlie. I care about you enough to know I don’t like seeing some pervert grind on you like that, and by the way you were staring at me, you fucking know that.”

Charlie folds her arms across her chest, hiding the way she anxiously plucks at her nails. 

She doesn’t like Harry. That would be absurd. He’s been nothing but a pain in her ass for the last six years, he’ll fuck anything that moves, he’s unreliable, messy, moody. A dickhead, an annoyance, a tease, a kiss, a touch, a fuck.

The lines begin to blur, and the easiest thing to do when those lines cross is to give in to either box Harry fits into. To either yell at him or get an orgasm out of him – but then he holds her in his hotel bed, or spends the day being Paris’ worst tour guide to distract her from Poppy’s grave, or holds her while she sobs into his chest because she can’t face her sister.

She hates him even more for it. 

“What are you saying?” Charlie utters. With the way Harry’s glued to her lips, it doesn’t matter they’re surrounded by chatter and music and 1 AM bar background – he hears every word as if it’s whispered in his ear.

Harry searches her eyes, trying to figure out how she’d respond if he said he’s saying he wants to know her in the morning as he does at night. That he wants to stop having to act like her presence annoys him when really it’s the only thing that’s kept him grounded all these years. That he wants to hear about her day, and hold her hand, and have her scream at him for domestic, stupid shit like how he forgot to wash up again rather than have her scream at him for being covered in hickies from someone he wishes is her.

“Fuck it,” Charlie sighs. She doesn’t have to wholly admit it to herself, that maybe she does crave Harry’s touch a little more than she should, but she can act on it in the only way she knows how. “Let’s just go back to the hotel.”

Harry’s tongue pokes in his cheek and he realises as she brushes past him that he’s been his own worst enemy this whole time.

Charlie pushes him against her hotel door once they reach the safety of the dim room, his lips quickly melting against hers — the action’s muscle memory at this point. He brings his hands up to her face, thumb brushing her jaw as he kisses her back, swallowing her sharp breaths and low moans as their tongues tangle. 

When her hands trail lower, tugging on his belt loops, Harry pulls away.

“What is it? What’s wrong?” Charlie pants against his mouth, her dress straps draping her shoulders. Harry’s eyes follow the thin silk, his warm fingers tracing her neck and giving her goosebumps (to which he tries to hide his smile) as he hoists them back up.

“Let’s just move slower, yeah?” Harry nudges her nose with his, his lips just brushing hers before she leans back.

“Why?” She narrows her eyes, sceptical.

If there’s one thing Charlie Greene is excellent at, it’s denial.

“Sweetheart,” Harry kisses her jaw, his hands finding her waist and pulling her close to him. He kisses her neck, Charlie sighs and puddles into his touch, “we have all night,” he kisses her throat, then her collarbones. “We don’t need to rush all the time.”

Bullshit for: I’m terrified this is the last time you’re ever going to want to touch me again after that near-confessional. Nevertheless, Charlie accepts it and sinks her fingers into his hair as she meets his lips again – slowly.

Harry backs her up till the backs of her knees hit the mattress, then he sits her down.

She perches on the edge of the bed, looking up at him as he removes his blazer, leaving him in his black shirt and trousers. Her eyes level with the butterfly just peaking from the material, she slides her palms back on the sheets till she can sit back and look at him in his entirety.

“You’re…”

The word gets trapped in her throat. Is it too intimate? Is it too weird?

“What?” Harry murmurs, dropping to his knees to take Charlie’s heels off.

She chews on it for a moment, tilting her head while watching him lean down and kiss the area of shin that’s visible behind her dress, ghosting his lips up the deep thigh slit. When he reaches her waist, she lays back, letting him climb over her.

“Charlie, what?” He repeats, curls tickling her cheek.

She reaches up, tucking his hair behind his ears. 

“You’re beautiful, you know that?”

Harry swears his heart stops beating.

“Sorry,” Charlie panics at the silence, “I’m probably just still dru–”

She can’t finish her nervous ramble because Harry’s already kissing her into the bed. Her legs instinctively wrap around his waist, trying desperately to grind against him as he pins her waist and cocoons her with his other arm.

“No one’s ever called me that,” Harry breathes against her lips, starting to struggle with his whole ‘slow’ idea. Charlie pulls him back to her mouth, needing the taste of him just as much as she needs the feel of him. She guides one of his hands down, pushing it beneath her dress. He presses his middle finger to her clothed cunt, swiping it over her clit and teasing the bundle of nerves.

“Please,” Charlie bucks into his hand, trying to reach some pressure, “I need you.”

Harry’s chest leaps.

She needs you to fuck her, idiot. She doesn’t need you.

… oh, fuck it. I can be delusional for a minute.

“Up,” Harry’s voice lowers as he nods up the bed, and they shuffle around so Charlie’s head hits the pillow. “No,” he quickly swipes her waist, nearly making her yelp with how swiftly he pulls her atop of him. He grabs her face, not caring that her hair’s tangled in his rings, “I meant up.”

Charlie frowns, not understanding till…

Oh.

“You mean…?” 

“Ride my face.” 

Charlie’s breath catches in her throat. She musters a heavy nod.

Sitting up, he helps her pull her dress over her body, leaving her only in those lace knickers Harry doesn’t know if he wants to frame or rip apart. His hands smooth over her silky thighs, pushing her back so he can take in the full sight of her. All her tattoos and marks and bumps and bruises – every perfect inch of her that he could drink in forever if he could.

He finds her eyes, nodding to signal he wanted – needed – her on his face. Now.

Climbing up the bed, Charlie clings onto the bed frame as she hovers above him, gasping at the feeling of his long fingers moving her knickers to the side, his cool rings brushing her mound. 

“Charlie, I said sit on my face.”

Never having done this before, Charlie glances down, her pussy still inches from his mouth, hesitant to sink any further.

“I don’t want to suffocate you.”

“You can kill me for all I care, just sit the fuck down.”

When Charlie scowls, Harry softens.

“I promise you won’t suffocate me. I’ll be more than fine.”

Keeping one hand occupied on her knickers, Harry wraps the other around her thigh to bring her down to his mouth. Tense, at first, Charlie just watches as his lips circle her cunt, his tongue just flickering at her clit. When he looks up, his seafoam eyes dark jade, Charlie’s stomach tightens and she throws her head back.

Harry pulls her further down, aiding her in rocking against his face as his tongue works her clit in hard, slow notions. Charlie leaves one hand on the bed frame, using her other to sink into his hair and tug – eliciting tunnelled groans from his throat to her pussy – as she begins to find a rhythm.

“Oh, shit, Harry,” she gasps, her hands flying back to his chest, now.

Harry tweaks at her nipple, rolling the bud between his fingers before feeling every part of her. Her stomach, her breasts, her arms. He settles on her thighs, keeping her impossibly close as Charlie moans and gasps through her orgasm.

Harry keeps her there until she can’t stand it, letting her climb back down his body after she tugs on his hair. Finding his lips as quickly as she can, Charlie tangles the taste of her on his tongue with her own, working to unbutton his shirt and trousers as she reaches in and feels how hard he is. He’s practically leaking pre-cum already, and grinds into Charlie’s touch as she works him a little.

“Christ, Styles,” she pants, smirking against his lips, “for me?”

“No, for that blonde girl I was talking to at the bar.” Harry jokes, laughing into her mouth when she stops palming him. “Of course it’s for you, dumbass,” he rakes his fingers through her hair, smoothing the nape of her tense neck with his finger tips. Kissing her, he mumbles, “always for you.”

He flips them over, arms caging her in as he kisses her neck. “You don’t understand,” kiss, “what you,” kiss, “do to me,” kiss, “Charlie.” kiss.

Head tilted into the pillow, nails raking the muscles that ripple his back, Charlie closes her eyes and wraps her legs around his waist. 

“Show me then,” she lifts her hips, brushing her wet core against his erection.

“Side,” he demands, sucking a nipple into his mouth and brushing his teeth against her puckering flesh.

Charlie quickly obeys, practically dripping for him again as his large hands sprawl her hips. She lays on her side, her cheek falling to his bicep as he lays behind her and lifts her leg up.

“Ready for me, hm?” Harry trails a finger between her folds, feeling how wet she is before tasting her on his thumb. “Always so fuckin’ wet,” he grabs the base of his dick, poking at her entrance before rubbing against her clit. She gasps, pushing back against him and grabbing his hip behind her. Harry leans down to her neck, teeth nipping at her earlobe as he slides in with ease.

Charlie’s eyes flutter shut, a low moan escaping her throat as he fits her. Harry’s own breath shudders, and he drapes her right leg over his side, gasping into into her neck as he feels her pulse around him. Snaking her arm around his nape, Harry starts thrusting, and the deep position echoes a symphony of filthy notes around the room. 

“Fuck, Charlie,” Harry whines in her ear, hand slipping down her thigh to circle her clit.

“Oh, my God,” Charlie chokes, shifting so she lays on her back and can swallow his moans with her lips. He squeezes her left breast, toying with her nipple till she bites down on his bottom lip and pushes her head into the pillow.

“Every time,” he groans, sinking his teeth into her shoulder, “you feel so good, every time.”

“Don’t stop,” Charlie’s fingers blanch around the sheets below them, “s’good, don’t stop.”

At that, Harry went harder, faster. Fuck the ‘slow’ rule.

“Charlie, baby, I’m gonna come,” Harry moans into her neck, trying to speed up his fingers so she can reach that peak sooner. Instead, she removes his hand, squeezing her pussy around him so that he tightens his grip on her waist and gasps sharply.

“Please do,” she directs all her focus on him, now, wanting so badly for him to, “fill me up, please, Harry.”

“Yeah?” 

“Yeah.” She rubs her own clit, slowly, feeding off his desperate little pants.

Fucking her so hard he nearly concusses them both on the headboard, Harry reaches his high, crying out into her neck. Charlie moans with him, scraping her fingers through his tangled curls as he slows down. 

“Did you finish?” He pants, breathless. Charlie shakes her head.

He pulls out, wincing as he shifts to lay her flat on her back, his cheek pressed into his palm. She finds his lips, kissing him softly despite his fingers curling filthily inside her. When it becomes too much to kiss him, when his thumb comes into play on her clit and the hard circles he rubs brings her closer and closer to her high, Charlie grabs his face and kisses his bottom lip once.

“Stay the night.”

Harry nearly stops. “Really?”

Charlie nods, and Harry kisses her, moving down her torso and making her come for a second – but not the last – time tonight.

taglist: @lilfreakjez @be-with-me-so-happily @sirtommyholland @tpwksm @b-reads-things @tiaamberxx @daphnesutton @mleestiles

[mlobsters]

supernatural s14e1 stranger in a strange land (w. andrew dabb)

pre-ep recap being ac/dc shot down in flames much better fit than metallica's nothing else matters from 13x01 vibe-wise and matching the pace of the clips. good job, guys. and smooth segue to it being on in the car

s14e1 / the matrix

wtf jackles, what is this speaking voice/cadence. reminds me of keanu reeves?? usually when i make really out there sound associations, i'm a little high. but that is not the case today. he's acting more like an agent than neo, but getting the keanu vibes :p i can't think of what movie specifically i'm thinking of. the devil's advocate and constantine are the other two keanu movies i've seen a bunch, but i dunno

never good when i'm pulling a clip in the first few minutes 🥴 gonna be a 2-3 day watch i'm guessing.

also don't really understand the styling choices. i get that it helps make a big visual difference between michael and dean, but like. dude wasn't dressing like this old timey fancy man with a flat cap in the au world. is this 20s-ish? never seen peaky blinders but this seems kinda similar? reading about collar pins and bars now. lol

is this the grief beard i've heard about. well maintained, if so

MARY Sam, we’re gonna find him. Ketch is working that thing in London. Castiel is in Detroit. I know it’s been three weeks since Dean… Something will break. It has to. SAM Yeah. Yeah, you keep saying that.

so like why does sam need to be in charge and involved in this vampire thing with this bunker full of people? they were fully self organized and fighting before they came here. even if sam is de facto leader for whatever reason; delegate, my guy. no help to anyone if you're not sleeping. call jody in, i bet she could talk some sense into him. also vaguely funny that we're all Team Family Go! but the family i connect with the most for them is jody and her girls

CASTIEL Does any demon know where Dean Winchester is? KIPLING I’m sorry, did you just say you lost a Winchester? Because, one -- that’s… interesting. And, two, how is that you lost Dean? I thought the two of you were joined at the… [Kipling glances down in a suggestive way.] …you know, everything.

in a way i wish i could have watched this without any knowledge of fandom because my knee jerk response is, ew. because i just don't see anything between dean and cas, i have a hard time grasping they're even close, i've just tried to accept it because the show tells us all the time. but maybe i could have come around to it more if i didn't know about the screaming zeitgeist that is destiel. or maybe i'd have the same reaction, i don't know. but anyway perpetually disgruntled knowing that my reaction is always colored somewhat due to fandom. i try to watch objectively but i know my feelings on things outside the show color my feelings of stuff inside the show

oh, cas. what have you gotten yourself into this time.

mmmk

SISTER JO Why would he say “yes” to you? MICHAEL Love.

short and sweet

man i know jackles is trying to do something different but i do not enjoy the way he's speaking as michael. ok now i'm getting umm. brad pitt in interview with the vampire?? like when he's talking to what's his face. for the interview. lol. christian slater! kind of slow, flat fairly emotionless narration.

um. how in the world is nick's soul in his vessel? didn't crowley remake it or whatever? or did he not die at any point in the ... 7 years intervening between lucifer dumping him in s5 and getting popped back in during s12

from 12x13 CROWLEY I managed to pervert that spell. So your essence wasn't sent back to the cage, but instead, we found your discarded vessel a few years ago… repaired it, improved it, making it a fitting final home for the real you.

whatever, man. nothing makes sense to me anymore. also thinking about jimmy novak called being possessed by castiel like "being chained to a comet" - for all those years

NICK Ow. I don't get it. I don't understand how Lucifer could die and I could live. SAM Yeah, um… I think that maybe it's because the archangel blades were made to kill the archangel inside a-and not the person they, uh -- NICK Possesses and uses to almost end the world twice?

sure. SURE. that makes sense. not at all how anything else ever works on this show, but sure! i mean, i love mark pellegrino too but come on, guys.

SAM Stop saying that, please. MARY What? SAM “It's gonna be fine,” that everything's gonna be fine, we're gonna find Dean, and -- MARY We are. SAM You don't know that. Dean's gone, and we have no idea where he is or -- or if he's even still alive. You know, Michael could have… burned him out or… worse, and… MARY I know. I know he's out there, scared and alone. I know. I know he might never come back. Never think I don't know that. But -- I can't -- I have to think about the good, Sam, because, if I don't, I will drown in the bad. For Dean's sake, I can't do that. We can't do that.

that's fine and reasonable but it's also reasonable that sam doesn't want to hear a baseless placation.

jack getting a grandpa bobby now too apparently

completely zoning out on this demon monologuing. why did they bring the girl along who isn't a hunter. what happened to the devil's trap bullets? and couldn't they make the bullets made out of the angel blades they had on the au world? because with all the dead angels they surely must have a stockpile. wouldn't get this several minute action sequence with fake tension though so

SAM Enough! There will be no new King of Hell. Not today. Not ever. And if anybody wants the job, you can come through me. Understood? (breathing heavily) So, what's it gonna be?

lol okay

SAM It's the -- It's the magic egg that kicked Lucifer out of the President. I thought we could use it on Michael, but -- Ketch can't find it. So, that's another dead end, which is just awesome.

i'm glad the show remembered because i completely forgot about that thing. thanks for preemptively ruling it out

CASTIEL Sam, are you all right? SAM Yeah, I've been better. I've been worse. You? CASTIEL I'm -- I'm just sorry. I should never have gone to those demons. SAM Cass, I -- No, I-I-I don't blame you. I… Honestly, I-I wish I'd have thought of it first. If it meant finding Dean, I-I'd work with -- I'd do anything.

❤️ take what i can get. (still need to sleep, sammy)

MICHAEL Now, you -- you know exactly what you want. You don't pretend to want to help people or save the world. Your want is pure and simple and clean. And that's why you are worth saving. That's why we are going to work so well together. Because you -- you just want to eat.

LOL what. michael loves vampires!

!! omg lol i just reread my 13x23 with my whole "can't kill michael now that he's wearing dean" is that the whole reason we get pellegrino back as nick, so we can find out that archangel blades don't kill the vessel?? 😂

[biggest-stupidhead]

Bad Timing (Levi x reader) Part 11

Summary: How do you tell your friends that you’re falling for your big brother’s best friend? 

Word Count: 8.2K (longest one yet) 

__

The next few days flew by in a snowy blur. Most of your time was spent wrapping gifts and packaging baked goods to deliver to family friends. You grunted as you leaned heavily on top of the Tupperware container as you shoved in more sugar cookies. This particular batch was going to Erwin's coach and his family. The sound of wrapping paper tearing made you cringe, turning around you saw Hange holding up the two uneven lengths of paper. She smiled sheepishly at you before shrugging and taping the pieces together once more. Your mom and Erwin were currently out shopping at the mall, which was a good hour away from the hick town you lived in.

You and Hange had already been out shopping the other day. It had been very stressful shopping for all your friends and family. You were glad to have gotten the ordeal over with. Although it was stressful, you had enjoyed picking out the perfect gift for your loved ones. Some highlights included: a camera lense for Armin, a set of chain necklaces for Mikasa, a turkey hat for Sasha, a safari hat for Connie, and your personal favorite was a set of fancy tea cups for Levi.

You really had outdone yourself this year, even going as far as buying Erwin supplies that he would need for College. For Hange you had purchased her a fresh set of glassware for her experiments, since she was majoring in Chemistry and enjoyed doing work outside of the classroom you thought it was a fitting gift. Hange held up her finished product proudly, judging by the size of the box you guessed it was a pair of shoes.

"I can't wait to give these to him!" she gushed as she set the box to the side and began folding a sweater that the two of you had purchased for your mom.

"Yeah I'm sure he'll love them." you agreed. You weren't the only one who had splurged this year. Hange had bought Erwin a fresh pair of cleats for his freshman season at college.

"I hope so!" she chuckled as she boxed the sweater and the pair of earrings for your mom.

"What did you ask for this year?" you asked as you set the stuffed container of cookies to the side.

"Oh nothing special." Hange waved her hand dismissively. You weren't surprised, she wasn't exactly interested in possessions. She valued knowledge above most things, so the closest you could get to filling that need was to give her books or items that helped her learn and shit. You had learned that the hard way, a few years ago you had given her a nice bracelet, which was currently collecting dust on her dresser.

"Well what about your parents, are they doing something special this year?" you inquired, you knew that she had learned to appreciate knowledge from them. They used to go on trips and spend Christmas soaking up the culture of wherever they went. One of their most notable trips was to South America, Hange's favorite trip to date. They hiked in the jungle and learned about the environment and shit.

"Aw sadly no, they wanted to take a break and focus on their research here." She shrugged as she wrapped the box in snowman wrapping paper.

"Really?" you mused, although Hange's family was unconventional you admired their free spirit.

"Yeah, I'm particularly interested in my mom's project, she's studying these penguins in South America right now-" she continued to ramble on about her mother's studies and her father's work. Both of her parents were very active in the zoology community. Hange's rant was cut short by the sound of her phone ringing, she apologized before answering the call, walking out of the room for some privacy. Which you thought was odd, she usually wasn't so private with her phone calls, which at times could be annoying. You brushed it off as most likely being a conversation about gifts. You picked up your phone, taking the opportunity to answer the text that Mikasa had sent you earlier that morning.

"We'll be over around 7." her text made you feel giddy with excitement. Although this year would be a bit different you were still excited to see all your friends.

"See you soon!" you responded, you realized that it was probably a good idea to start dinner for your mom. She should be home any minute but still you set about preheating the oven for the casserole and the ham. Thankfully the Jeagers brought dishes as well, Carla made a mean pumpkin pie. You weren't expecting Kenny to bring anything other than booze. You fell into an easy rhythm as you prepared the vegetable casserole. It couldn't have been more than an hour later that your mom and Erwin stumbled in the door and dropped the bags down by the card table where we had been wrapping gifts. Your mom was quick to wash her hands and start the mashed potatoes as you checked the ham. Hange had began to set the table with Erwin, a christmas playlist had been playing to set the mood.

The Jeagers arrived right at 7, just in time. Grisha's arms were full with gifts, Carla toted two pies, Eren held a board game, and Mikasa had two bottles of red wine with ribbons around the necks of the bottles. Hugs and formalities were exchanged as they entered and put their gifts under the tree. Carla joined your mom in the kitchen to finish carving the ham. You and the other teens finished setting the table as everyone trickled into the dining room.

Just as the ham was placed on the table and glasses of wine were poured, the doorbell rang once more. Kenny had arrived, surprisingly only thirty minutes late. He had a huge bottle of vodka and another sizable bottle of whiskey. Your mom greeted him, taking the liquor from him and pointing him to his seat. Now that all guests were accounted for you began to dish out food and recount the past holidays that your families spent together. It didn't go unnoticed that Kenny was a tad uncomfortable, but thanks to Grisha's easy going nature and Carla's friendliness, he slowly eased up. Of course you and the other teens had your own conversation separate from the adults.

"-Do you remember that one year that I creamed you guys in Just Dance?" Hange gloated as she waved a forkful of ham in Eren's face.

"Ugh yes, but only because that was the year that Mikasa's ankle was sprained." Eren deflected, lifting his own fork to push hers from his face. Mikasa blushed and shoved a spoonful of mashed potatoes into her mouth.

"Well I guess we'll just have to see if that was the real reason after a rematch!" Hange teased before biting into the hunk of meat.

"I guess we will." Eren narrowed his eyes as he watched Hange chew the meat.

"We should play Mario Kart first, I want to redeem myself." Armin was quick to change the subject. Always quick to avoid possible conflict.

"Yeah I totally creamed you last time!" you gloated a cocky smile on your lips.

"W-What! No I had the most wins!" Eren's eyes were alight with anger. He was too easy to piss off.

"Wrong!" you said in a sing song voice.

"Knock it off you two." Erwin scolded from across the table, Eren's cheeks flushed when Erwin scolded him but you simply rolled your eyes. In the last few months Erwin had taken to hovering over you and your friends. It was strange, he had never shown so much interest in your social life until recently. At first you had been eager to tell him what was going on in your friend group, but now it was becoming annoying.

"Lay off Erwin, it's all talk." you scoffed with a roll of your eyes. Erwin's eyes hardened at your snarky tone, your guests eyes flickered between the two of you as you glared at one another. Until finally you snorted and looked away with a shake of your head.

"Uh...so who wants pie!" Armin, ever true to his anti confrontation nature filled the thick silence between the teens. Meanwhile the adults had continued to yammer on about all the hot hospital gossip.

"I-I would." Eren played into Armin's excuse to change the subject.

"Yeah sounds good." you sighed, defeated. Armin scrambled out of his seat and ducked into the kitchen, returning a few moments later with the pies. He dished out three pieces onto you and Eren's plates before serving himself. By the time he had returned, Hange had already changed the topic to the party the following day. You sat in silence as she rambled about the logistics for the party at your house.

"I think that Nanaba is bringing mac and cheese, Mike is probably going to bring those snicker doodles that he always makes-" You tuned her out, not interested in her current rant. Tomorrow's party wasn't the party you were really excited for. So you instead turned to Mikasa, hoping to talk about your plans for the 26th.

"So what time are you going to Annie's? Would you like to ride together?" you asked as you angled yourself to face her to better tune out Hange.

"We are heading over around 9, and sure I'm driving." Mikasa responded as she stretched to serve herself a piece of pie.

"Perfect, are you spending the night there?" you quizzed, unsure if you also wanted to spend the night there.

"No, we were going to go back to Armin's but I can drop you off here if you want." Mikasa answered as she took a bite of pie.

"Alright that sounds good!" you agreed, knowing that Mikasa was always a reliable designated driver.

__

Dinner had gone relatively smooth, despite the tension that now hung in the atmosphere between you and Erwin. The rest of the evening was spent in the living room opening gifts with a Christmas movie marathon playing in the background. The Jeagers left around eleven, which was later than they usually stayed. Kenny took the guest bedroom in the basement, since he was spending Christmas day with your family anyway. You checked your phone with a heavy sigh, already it was twelve am. You contemplated texting Levi to tell him happy birthday, but you weren't sure he would be awake. It was already six in the morning in France, and usually he got his three hours of sleep between four and seven in the morning. But you decided that if he didn't answer you could leave him a voicemail or shoot him a text. So after you changed into your pajamas and had snuggled beneath your covers, you pulled up Levi's contact, your thumb hovering over the small phone icon. Finally you just said 'fuck it' and pressed the button, the phone rang three times before he answered.

"Hey." his voice was thick and gravely as he spoke, immediately you felt bad. You knew that you must have woken him up and you cringed internally.

"Hey happy birthday!" you greeted, making sure to keep your voice low so you wouldn't disturb Erwin and Hange.

"Tch thanks." Levi mumbled, you pictured him running a hand down his face as he tried to wake up.

"you're welcome birthday boy." you teased as you fell back onto your pillows.

"shut up." Levi scoffed, you could hear his footsteps as he walked through the apartment, presumably to get his morning cup of black tea.

"you know you love it." you sighed.

"keep telling yourself that." Levi's voice was becoming clearer now that he was more awake.

"I think that I will." you answered with a light laugh.

"you still going to that party tomorrow?" Levi interrogated, you groaned. You had almost forgotten how he liked to stick his nose in your business, even when he was across the fucking ocean.

"Yeah what about it?" you huffed, feeling a bit defensive.

"Shouldn't you stay with your family or some shit." Levi sounded frustrated.

"My mom said I could go." you pouted childishly.

"Whatever." Levi grunted, and you frowned, unsure of where his frustration was coming form.

"Aw come on no need to be jealous, I'm sure you can find some rager in Paris. Not like you'll be missing much here." you chuckled, trying to lighten the mood.

"Hmph." Levi scoffed, you could hear the tinkling of his spoon as he stirred his tea.

"So....when are you due to be home?" you asked, deciding it was best to change the subject.

"Next week." Levi's tone was clipped.

"I'm so jealous." you sighed dreamily.

"Yeah Paris is way better than Shiganshina." Levi responded nonchalantly, you weren't sure if he was being serious or sarcastic. Either way he was telling the truth.

"No need to rub it in my face." you chuckled.

"Tch." He scoffed, you liked to imagine him smiling as he did so, even if he wasn't.

"Well I hope that this next week goes by fast, as much as I hate to admit it I've... missed you." you confessed, the tips of your ears scorching hot with embarrassment. The silence was deafening as you waited for him to say something, hell anything even if it was making fun of you.

"Whatever." he huffed, the butterflies in your stomach fluttered at the sound of his baritone voice.

"Just don't stay out late tomorrow." he quipped and you frowned, why did he care how late you stayed out?

"No need to worry about me, I'll probably just stay sober with Mikasa." You told him, only half honest.

"Never said I was worried about you." Levi sighed.

"Hmph fine be like that." you scoffed and rolled your eyes, not surprised with his response.

"Be like what?" He asked, genuinely curious what you meant.

"Like an ass." you quipped.

"Tch I'll quite being an ass when you stop being such a brat." Levi snapped, clearly you were approaching dangerous territory.

"Okay okay chill." you muttered, backing down before things got too heated.

"You're the one that brought it up.." Levi pointed out.

"Yeah and now I'm regretting that" you sighed, wishing he wouldn't be so stubborn for once. He sighed as well and you heard a small clatter on his end of the line, you figured he was starting the dishes.

"Look I've got some shit to do, I'll call you later okay?" Levi's voice was a tad strained and in the moment of silence you heard the sound of Isabel and Farlan bickering in hushed tones.

"Y-Yeah sure of course." you couldn't help but feel a bit disappointed.

"Happy birthday Levi." you wished him once more.

"Thanks, talk to you later brat." and with that he hung up, leaving you totally alone in your dark room. You plugged your phone in and rolled over onto your side, he could be so annoying. You inhaled sharply and decided that you would enjoy the party tomorrow to it's fullest. What he didn't know wouldn't kill him.

___

"Hey can I borrow your lip gloss?" you asked Mikasa as you leaned forward to apply another coat of mascara to your lashes.

"Sure which one?" she asked as she pulled her hair into high pigtails on top of her head.

"The cherry one." you answered after a moment of contemplation. She finished her hair before reaching into her makeup bag and pulled out the tube of clear gloss.

"Thanks." you said as you took the make up from her. You didn't usually put this much effort into your appearance when you went to parties but you figured since it was the first time you would be going to Annie's that this was a special occasion. Also you had a sneaking suspicion that two of your exes would be there and you at least wanted to look hot if you were going to get black out.

Plus Mikasa was also dressed up, she wore a tight fitting black top with long sleeves and a low cut neck line that showed off her pale collarbones and neck. She had chosen to wear a choker that had metallic studs surrounding the black leather along with some other layered necklaces. To match her top she had selected a red plaid skirt and some torn tights. You weren't dressed nearly as edgy as she was, but you too had gone for a grungier look. You'd opted to wear a tattered pair of mom jeans along with a black cropped tank and an oversized flannel to cover your shoulders.

You sighed as you finished applying the gloss and frowned, Eren and Armin were in the next room over blasting Post Malone. You assumed that Eren was on aux since Armin usually listened to Surfaces or Khalid.

"You ready?" Mikasa asked as she pulled on her Doc Martens and double checked her earrings.

"Yeah." you assured her as you stood up to grab your small backpack with an extra change of comfy clothes in case you ended up staying the night. The two of you left the room and knocked on Eren's door that was down the hall.

"Just a minute!" Armin's shrill voice sounded a bit panicked but Mikasa simply shrugged and headed towards the kitchen. The Jeager's house was a ranch style house with one main floor and a nice basement. The two of you waited patiently in the kitchen for the boys, it was already well past nine. You scrolled through your snapchat, most of the stories were the regular group picture of friends having a sleepover, the druggie kids showing off their weed, and of course Sasha and Connie posted a video showcasing the house party at Annie's. From what the short video showed, her house was dark except for some LED lights that flashed through multiple different colors. The music was deafening, and the kids that you could see seemed to be swaying to the pulsing music.Sasha spun the camera around as she knocked back a shot with her arm around Connie who blew a puff of vapor at the camera.

"Looks fun." Mikasa scoffed, you knew that she preferred more low-key parties.

"If you end up not liking it we can always dip." You shrugged, knowing that this wasn't exactly your speed either. Mikasa hummed in agreement and turned to look down the hallway as Eren's door opened. The boys emerged from Eren's room, Eren wore a pair of black jeans and a dark forrest green long sleeved shirt. Armin wore a baby blue knit sweater with a collared shirt underneath and black jeans as well.

"All set?" Mikasa asked as she turned to pull out a bottle of titos with a cute little sweater over it. You smiled at the cute accessory and nodded.

"Yep!" you said popping the p as the four of you all made your way out to Eren's car. You slid into the back seat next to Armin who was fiddling with the hem of his sweater nervously. Eren resumed his hype music as Mikasa backed out of the drive way. Eren pulled out his puff bar as soon as the car was out of the drive and took a long drag. Mikasa scoffed and cracked the window for him. He blew the billow of smoke out the window and reached to turn the music up. He reached back and dangled the puff for you to take, after a brief moment of hesitation you accepted it and cracked your window before taking a hit. Armin watched with wide eyes as you inhaled and blew the vapor out the crack.

"Since when did you vape?" Armin asked, his mouth agape in awe.

"I don't...at least not regularly." You admitted sheepishly.

"That's what they all say." Eren chuckled, smoke curling out from his lips as he smirked.

"Shut up I'm serious!" you snapped a playful smile on your face. Thankfully Annie's house wasn't far away, about a twenty minute drive. You pulled up to the house, it was huge. Standing at least three stories tall, with a long winding driveway. Mikasa pulled up behind one of the many cars in the drive way and parked the car. Mikasa led the way around to the side door, which was unlocked, piled of shoes littered the hallway. The sound of loud music greeted you as you walked into the kitchen on the main floor to set the alcohol you'd brought down. The real party was in the basement.

The lights were off, leaving the only source of light to be the flickering LED lights, you couldn't even tell who was who. The air was heavy with the mingling aromas of cologne, vapes, and weed. Armin practically clung to you as the four of you waded through the crowd to get to the seating area in the center of the room. As you got closer the overpowering scent of weed assaulted your nose. There on the large L shaped couch was Annie, she held a large bong to her lips as Bertolt held the lighter under the weed, she inhaled deeply and the bong bubbled. She pulled back and blew a puff of smoke right in Reiner's face, the blonde's face scrunched up in disgust as he turned away to cough.

"Yo." Annie greeted Mikasa who leaned down to dap her up. Once Annie had greeted Mikasa she turned her attention to Eren who was eyeing the bong.

"You want a drag?" Annie offered, patting the sofa next to her. Eren nodded and dropped down between her and Bertolt, who once again struck the lighter for Eren. Mikasa rolled her eyes and waited patiently for Eren to finish his drag. Once the bong was out of the way she lowered herself down onto his lap and pulled her puff bar out to take a long drag. Armin shifted awkwardly behind you and tugged on your sleeve.

"Want to go get something to drink?" he yelled over the booming music, you glanced at the bong longingly but decided that Armin needed you right now so you nodded in agreement.

"Sure." the two of you pushed through the crowd to the minibar where an impressive amount of liquor was waiting. You poured some Bacardi into a glass of and added some pineapple and orange concentrates before handing the cup to Armin. He thanked you and quickly got to work on finishing the mixed drink. You poured yourself a rum and coke and then two shots of Malibu for you and Armin to take. The two of you knocked back the shots before wandering back over towards the couch. The crowd had thinned out a bit, something about watching a movie in Annie's in home movie theater.

"-No that's bullshit, I know for a fact that you pissed your pants in the second grade Eren!" your eyebrows shot into your hairline at the words leaving Annie's mouth.

"Just because I'm quiet doesn't mean I don't notice shit." She huffed as she lifted the juul in her hand to her lips and took a long drag.

"I-"

"Just take the L Eren we all remember." Bertolt shook his head and chuckled at Eren's flushed cheeks. You glanced at Mikasa, usually she would defend Eren but she seemed content to let him struggle through this one on his own, still perched on his lap.

"We've all had accidents before." Armin said with an awkward chuckle as he sat down beside Annie, who looked at him with a blank expression.

"Like that time you tripped down the stairs and broke both your legs in fourth grade?" Annie quipped, a small smirk curling onto her lips. You choked on your drink at Annie's remark, she was an absolute savage.

"Exactly..." Armin flushed, lifting his own cup to his lips. Your phone buzzed in your pocket, but you were too invested in the conversation to be bothered to pick it up.

"Want a hit?" Annie offered the bong to you, you nodded. Although you'd never had weed before, you'd tried asking Levi for some of his but he always denied you. Annie held her hand out to Bertolt who placed the lighter in his open palm. She packed some more weed into the bowl before handing you the bong.

"You ever done this before?" She asked as she kneeled in front of you. You shook your head,

"Okay so I'll tell you when to inhale, and you've got to take a huge breath so you can get the smoke in your system. But then you'll have to take another breath to get it in your lungs." she instructed as she pressed the weed deeper into the bowl.

"Okay." you agreed, she nodded and struck the lighter, holding the flame over the weed in the bowl. You pressed your lips to the mouth piece and waited for her instructions.

"Inhale." she said once the weed was lit. You sucked in a big breath and the water in the bong bubbled. The smoke burned the insides of your throat as you inhaled it, you pulled the bong off your mouth and sucked in once more to get the smoke into your lungs. She nodded in approval as you coughed, smoke curling out of your mouth.

"Not bad for your first time." she commented as she took the bong from you and passed it to Mikasa who took a long drag before passing it to Bertolt.

"Thanks, that stuff burns." you coughed, Annie sat down next to you on the couch and draped her arm over the back. You felt the buzz from the weed and the shots you'd taken earlier, making your head spin a bit. Annie's thigh brushed against your own, you tried to focus on what she was wearing, a pair of grey sweats and a cute cropped peachy colored tank top with spaghetti straps.

"I like your top." you complimented, her hand fell from the back of the couch to your shoulders.

"Thanks." she said, turning to gauge your reaction to her touch. You swallowed a bit nervously, you'd known Annie since kindergarten, but you'd never really been friends before, she was always so quiet.

"I always thought you were a good kid." Annie smirked, her eyes a bit playful.

"What made you think that?" You giggled, shuffling closer to her.

"Your brother is like the school's golden boy, and you are always in all the honors classes." she shrugged, you frowned. You were used to people coming up with these assumptions. She was right though, you did take honor classes, but that didn't mean you couldn't party!

"I guess...But that doesn't mean that I don't enjoy partying." you countered.

"I suppose." she chuckled, taking a hit from her juul and blowing the smoke away from your face. Your phone rang in your pocket and you frowned, as you dug it out of your pocket. Your frown deepened at the sight of Hange's contact lighting up your screen.

"Hang on I should take this." you apologized, moving to stand up to find a quiet place to answer the phone. Annie snatched your wrist and pulled you back down on the sofa, the room spun as you fell back down and slumped against her shoulder.

"Slow down there sweetheart." Annie chuckled as you leaned against her.

"I got to go answer my-"

"Nah just stay here, enjoy yourself." Annie pulled you closer, but your head was too foggy to protest, thoughts of your phone already fading into the back of your mind as Annie held the bong to your lips once more.

__

"She's still not answering." Hange chewed on her knuckle as she glanced at Erwin who was gripping the steering wheel. His brows were knit tightly together with worry, Levi shifted in the back seat, tapping his fingers impatiently.

"This is stupid, she can wait until tomorrow to see me." Levi huffed, trying his best to sound indifferent.

"Oh don't say that Levi." Hange frowned as she looked back at Levi, her eyes deep with worry.

"Don't worry about it." Levi grunted, turning his attention back to his phone. He opened snapchat, and scrolled through the stories. His eyes widened slightly when he stopped on Sasha's story, the video of the party played, he found himself looking for your silhouette among the swaying bodies. He tapped on his screen, expecting to move on to the next story, only to find a new video, added to her story less than ten minutes ago. A video of you with a red solo cup in one hand, and a juul in the other. You were leaned up against a blonde girl who was pushing a bottle of Pink Whitney against you, the pink alcohol sloshing in the glass.

"Come on (Y/n) finish it off!" Sasha encouraged as the other kids on the couch picked up on her chant.

"Finish it, Finish it." the crowd cheered as you sat down the cup and took the bottle from the blonde. You looked at the camera as Sasha shuffled closer.

"No pa-paparazzi please." you giggled, hiccuping half way through your sentence. You lifted the bottle to your lips and tilted your head back, the liquid spilled down your front, making your skin glisten in the colorful lights as you chugged the alcohol you managed to get in your mouth.

"Fuck yeah!!!" Sasha jeered, spinning the camera around to her face. The video ended and Levi felt his blood boil. He'd never seen you so out of it before and he hated it. He hated how easily you had given into doing something so stupid, he hated the sight of the juul in your fist, he hated the way the girl's arm was tightly wrapped around your waist, but most of all he hated that he wasn't there.

"Wait, I think Sasha's snap map is on." Hange mumbled, her phone screen casting a pale glow over her glasses as she zoomed in on Sasha's bitmoji. Sure enough Sasha's bitmoji was on the map, surrounded by at least twenty other bitmojis gathered in one location.

"Okay let's head that way then." Erwin sighed as he started the car and backed out of his parking spot in the airport parking lot. Erwin pulled out of the small airport that was about thirty minutes away from your town and set off towards Annie's house. Thankfully Annie lived on the outskirts of town so it wasn't as far of a drive. It wasn't long before Erwin was pulling up a long winding drive that was full of cars. He parked at the back of the line of cars and got out of the car with a heavy slam of his door. Levi slammed the back door of the minivan as hard as he could, the two of them marched up the driveway silently with Hange following nervously.

"You guys please slow down it's icy out here." Hange begged as she slipped on one of the steps to the side door. The three of them piled into the house, Hange knew it was bad when Levi didn't bother to kick his shoes off before continuing towards the basement steps. Erwin stormed down the steps, the music getting louder as they descended. Erwin paused at the bottom of the steps to take in the scene, cups littered the floor, the room was hazy with smoke from juuls and the scent of weed clung to the air. A group of partygoers was crowded onto the couch, Levi's eyes narrowed onto the back of your head.

"Yoooo that's ice cold." Eren's loud voice could be heard over the music as the teens passed the bong between one another.

"No it's the truth." you slurred, the empty bottle of alcohol still in your fist.

"Well sorryyy that I forgot that I had gum in my mouth." Connie said, waving his hands in front of his face.

"You're an idiot." Sasha laughed boisterously as she shoved a handful of pretzels into her mouth.

"damn straight." Annie agreed, taking the empty bottle from you and setting it on the coffee table. Erwin stalked across the room and stood behind Bertolt, who was now on the floor. The conversation came to a halt at the sight of the uninvited guests.

"Woah I think I'm seeing things." you said, tilting your head downwards as you tried to understand why you were seeing your brother.

"Me too." Reiner agreed, his own distant gaze honing in on his team captain.

"Get up we're going home." Erwin's voice was cold and commanding as he glowered at you.

"I don't wanna leave." your eyes hardened with denial. Erwin stepped over Bertolt, once he had moved your eyes landed on Levi, who was glaring at you with those dark eyes.

"I'm definitely seeing things." you grunted as Erwin pulled you off the couch and away from Annie's warmth.

"Hey man she said she didn't want to go." Annie snarled, jumping to her feet, her icy blue eyes sharp.

"Yeah well she's drunk as shit and doesn't know what she's saying." Levi snapped back at Annie, who had a hand clamped down around your arm. Hange shifted nervously behind the couch as she watched the scene unfold.

"You need to leave." Annie growled, pointing a finger at the stairs.

"That's what we're trying to do dumb ass." Levi growled, taking a step closer to the circle of teens.

"Leave her alone she can make her own decisions." Reiner quipped, rising to his own feet.

"Stay out of this Braun." Erwin ordered, releasing you so he could turn and face Reiner.

"I'm just saying, she chose to come here on her own and she's enjoying herself so let her be." Reiner shrugged.

"She's had enough tonight." Erwin countered, shifting his gaze back to you as you swayed on your feet.

"No I haven't" you frowned up at Erwin.

"Yes you have. We're leaving end of discussion." he said with finality, once more reaching for your wrist.

"I'm not leaving Erwin." you protested, pulling yourself free from his grasp. He snatched your wrist once more and tugged you away from the circle. You gasped and stumbled after him, the protests of your friends echoing loudly in your head. Erwin hauled you up the stairs and out the side door, Levi and Hange close on your heels. He only slowed once you were walking down the driveway. You wrenched yourself free once more with a strangled cry.

"I said I don't want to leave!" you screamed, a few tears sliding down your cheeks.

"You always embarrass me in front of my friends just give me this one night!" you cried, the cold air making your face beet red.

"You'll thank me later." He said simply before turning to continue down the driveway.

"No I won't I'm going back inside." you turned on your heel and marched back towards the door, only for Levi to catch your wrist.

"You've had enough for one night." He scolded as you struggled against his hold. Hange chewed on her bottom lip with worry at the sight, this was not how she planned your reunion.

"Levi let me go." you said with finality as you met his eyes.

"No, you're going home." Levi's voice was tense.

"No I'm not."

"(Y/n) you're going home and that's final." Erwin sighed, running a hand down the side of his face. You spun around and glared at him.

"You're not my fucking dad Erwin so quit acting like it! Jesus it's so annoying I'm tired of it!" you screamed, your chest heaving with frustration, your breath coming out with puffs of vapor. Hange and Levi stood deathly still, knowing that the topic of your father was a sensitive one.

"Fine be that way." Erwin snarled and marched to the van and climbed in with a slam of his door. Hange rushed to get in the car without a second glance over her shoulder. Levi remained firmly rooted to the ground, his hand still wrapped firmly around your wrist as you cried.

"Get out of here Levi." you sobbed, shaking your arm to throw his hand off. He finally let you go, his head tilted down to the ground. You huffed, wrapping your arms around your chest before turning on your heel and stalking back towards the house. Levi stood there a moment longer just listening to the sound of your receding footsteps before he padded back to Erwin's car and slid into the backseat.

__

Your head was spinning as you pressed your back against the bathroom door, your lip quivering as you tried to contain your tears. You knew that you'd hurt both Erwin's and Levi's feelings, you also knew that they were only trying to help you. But there was only so much help you could except from them without them toeing the line between helpful and overbearing. You slid down the door with a whimper, you hugged you knees to your chest and rested your chin on top of them. A knock startled you out of your moping,

"(Y/n)? You in there?" You groaned when you recognize Jean's voice.

"Open the door please." He said softly and you felt more tears fall down your cheeks as you reached up for the knob to unlock the door. The lock clicked and you shuffled to lean agains the wall so he could open the door.

"Hey" he said as he stuck his head in, his amber eyes soft with worry.

"Hey" you sniffled, turning your head up to meet his gaze.

"What's wrong?" He asked, slipping into the small bathroom and closing the door behind him. He crouched down in front of you, his elbows propped on his own knees as he got onto your level.

"Well for starters, you kissed someone else when we were talking." you said a bit venomously. He cringed and plopped down to sit criss cross applesauce instead.

"I'm sorry I know that I shouldn't have done that but, I've been really confused....like sexually I guess." He rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly and your frowned.

"I know, but it still hurt my feelings." you mumbled, a few fresh tears falling from your watery eyes.

"I shouldn't have led you on like that, it was a real jerk move." Jean agreed, his eyes still soft and comforting. You'd missed being his friend you realized as you sat on the cold tile.

"I've missed talking to you." you spoke your mind, managing a small smile.

"Me too, let's be friends again?" he proposed, offering his hand to you. Your smile grew wider as you extended your own hand to grasp his. You shook hands briefly.

"So are you and Marco a couple now?" you asked.

"Sort of.." Jean chuckled.

"You want to go back to the party now?" He asked, jutting a thumb towards the door. You nodded, although now you were beginning to sober up. He stood and offered his hands to help you to your feet. You accepted his hands and he pulled you to your feet. The two of you walked slowly down the steps to rejoin the circle of teens in the living room. Jean stopped at the bottom of the stairs his hand held loosely in your own. He squeezed your hand, asking for your attention. You turned and faced him, a questioning look on your face.

"You've got some-" He chuckled, lifting his thumb to his mouth and licking it before wiping away some rogue mascara off your cheeks. You gasped in mock offense as he wiped away the makeup.

"You're not my mom." you teased, pulling your face free as you turned to head back into the fray, trusting that Jean got all the black marks off your face.

"Nobody could replace Angie." Jean agreed as he followed you into the basement. The group of previously rowdy teens was now subdued due to your brother and his meddling party crasher friends.

"Hey look who's back!" Reiner greeted, causing all the heads to turn back to you. You smiled sheepishly and dropped back into your seat next to Annie.

"You alright?" She asked, her eyes scanning you meticulously for any signs of injury.

"Yeah I'm- I'll be alright." you stumbled over your words as the group watched you carefully.

"You want a uh beer or something?" Connie asked, lifting up an unopened can.

"No she doesn't you idiot!" Sasha snapped, elbowing Connie harshly.

"Ow well I was just trying to make her feel better!" Connie cried, turning to tackle Sasha. The two began to tussle, rolling around on the floor grunting as they struggled. You smiled, the pair never failed to make you happy. Annie draped her arm over you again as the boys began to place bets on who would come out victorious.

"If Sasha wins you've got to drink one of Connie's mixed drinks!" Eren said, leaning over to Bertolt who scoffed, his boyish features contorting with disgust. Connie was known for making the worst mixed drinks.

"You're on Jeager." he reached over Reiner and the two shook in agreement before turning their attention to the scuffle.

"Come on Sasha!" Eren jeered as Sasha bit down hard on Connie's hand. The boy yelped and tried to desperately pry her locked jaws off his hand. He gave up quickly and resorted to hitting her head with his closed fist, his face wild with panic.

"Tickle her neck" Mikasa suggested as she lifted a red solo cup to her lips. Your eyes widened in surprise, Mikasa usually kept quiet during these scuffles, unless of course it was Eren being thrown around. Connie's free hand flew down to Sasha's armpit and immediately Sasha released his other hand to roll away from him. Connie regained the upper hand, pinning Sasha beneath him as he tickled her ruthlessly. Jean groaned and slapped a wad of bills into Reiner's open palm as Sasha slapped the ground in defeat. Connie threw his hands into the air and rolled off Sasha who was fighting for breath.

"Traitor" she moaned, her brown eyes glaring at Mikasa who shrugged indifferently. Eren groaned and frowned at Mikasa.

"Why'd you do that?" He asked as Bertolt looked relieved. Mikasa shrugged once more a sly smile on her face as Eren pushed her off his lap.

"So" Connie jumped to his feet and clapped his hands together.

"About that drink." he turned and strutted over to the mini bar, followed by a sulking Eren and a smug Bertolt. You turned to Sasha who was now straddling Mikasa her hands around Mikasa's shoulders as she jostled the girl.

"Come on Mikasa why'd you sell me out like that?" she whined as she shook the girl, Mikasa's drink sloshing in her cup. Mikasa smiled as her eyes drifted to the group of boys, Connie had a large bottle of Tito's and a two liter of Mt. Dew in his hands as he inspected the two, his face scrunched up with concentration.

"Come on Sasha it's not like you wouldn't do the same if it were me." Mikasa scoffed with a roll of her eyes. You snorted at Mikasa's response, knowing that she was indeed correct. Sasha gasped and shook Mikasa harder.

"I would never do that to you! Besides you would win in any fight you fought." Sasha objected, leaning back on Mikasa's lap her arms extended.

"Psh whatever." Annie scoffed, a playful smirk on her lips.

"Not all of us are masters at kickboxing." Sasha pouted as she climbed off Mikasa's lap and dropped onto the empty space next to her. You knew that Mikasa had participated in the sport for the past few years, but you were confused when Sasha looked between Annie and Mikasa.

"What you didn't know?" Annie asked with a smirk. You shook your head,

"No I guess I don't know." you laughed as Annie licked her lips and she threw her arm back over your shoulders.

"Mikasa and I are on the same kickboxing club." She shrugged as you settled back into her side. Your mouth opened into an 'o' shape in realization as Annie dug her juul out of her pocket and took a hit. Mikasa nodded in agreement, her eyes shifting back over to the boys, who were laughing loudly as Eren chugged a cup of mystery liquid.

"Really? I had no idea." you said as you followed Mikasa's gaze. Eren was now leaned over gagging as Armin patted his back with a worried expression.

"-You dodged a bullet there!" Reiner quipped as he patted Bertolt's back as the tall boy watched with a disgusted face.

"Hey where did Ymir and Krista run off to?" Sasha asked, whipping her head around to look for the pair.

"Probably making out in some corner." Reiner scoffed as he dropped back onto the sofa, the rest of the boys rejoining the group as well. You nodded in agreement, it was no secret that the pair had been seeing each other recently.

"Guess so." Sasha sighed, slumping back into the sofa, throwing a glare at Connie who was now seated next to her with an arm over the back of the couch. Eren and Armin were the only once unaccounted for, you assumed that they had fled to the bathroom given the state Eren had been in after drinking Connie's concoction. Jean had managed to slip away with all the commotion, probably to return to Marco. Annie sighed, glancing at her phone with a frown, it was well past three at this point and you were starting to feel the fatigue.

"Well I think that I'm heading off to bed." Annie yawned, the others seemed to be mellowing out as well.

"You guys can crash here or my brother's room is open as well as my sisters rooms." She said as she stood up. You immediately missed her warmth as she lingered by the couch.

"I call Eric's room!" Sasha perked up, also standing up to run towards Annie's younger brother's room.

"No fair!" Connie yelled, giving chase. Mikasa sighed and stood up as well.

"I'd better go check on Eren and Armin." She mumbled as she stalked off towards the bathroom.

"Are you staying the night then?" Annie asked you as you also stood up, not sure if you should go after Mikasa.

"I'm not sure, Mikasa was going to take me back to her place..."

"You can sleep in my room with me." She offered, tilting her head towards the stairs. You bit your lip as you weighed your options. Mikasa had been drinking and smoking and you knew that she wasn't stupid enough to drive so you figured that you weren't leaving any more.

"We'll sleep in Sarah's room." Reiner said as he and Bertolt began to retreat up the stairs. Leaving just you and Annie in the basement living room, she raised a brow as she waited for your answer.

"No pressure." She said as she began to walk towards the stairs.

"Yeah I'll sleep with you." you blurted as you jogged to catch up to Annie. She smirked at your wording and you flushed.

"Not like that!" you slapped her arm as she led the way up to the top floor which was a maze of closed doors. She slipped into one of the closed doors, into a large bedroom with a queen sized bed in the center of the room. She emptied her pockets before climbing into bed, pulling the covers back for the both of you. You slid into the open side and sat your phone on the bedside table. Annie sighed with relief as she nestled into the covers, scrolling through her phone as you closed your eyes in an attempt to sleep. After a few minutes Annie put her phone down and rolled over, now her front was facing your back.

"You awake?" She whispered, you rolled over to face her as well.

"Yeah" you answered, resting your head on your arm as you focused on her features as best as you could in the dim lighting.

"You wanna make out?" she asked, your eyes widened in shock. You weren't sure if she was being serious or not.

"For real?" you blinked rapidly as Annie shuffled closer and pushed a lock of hair out of your face.

"I mean yeah." she huffed a shy smile on her face. You pursed your lips in thought, you had never kissed a girl before, and it wasn't like the thought of doing so had never crossed your mind. You shrugged and leaned slightly into her touch.

"Yes or no." She said as she propped herself up on her elbow so she was looking down on you.

"Sure." you agreed, she leaned down as soon as the words left your lips. Her lips were so soft compared to the boys that you'd kissed in the past. Her hand that had been in your hair now traced over your cheek bones as she licked your bottom lip. You opened your mouth for her to slip her tongue in, the taste of weed and pink whitney mingling on her breath. You met her tongue a bit timidly as she licked your bottom teeth. She pulled back after a moment to readjust herself so that she was now laying down on top of you, caging you in her arms as she leaned down to kiss your chin.

"You're so cute." she mused, her lips pressed against the corner of your mouth.

"You're really pretty" you breathed as her lips hovered over your own once more before connecting her lips with yours once more.

[crypticpaw]

Table For Four - chapter 1

Entrapta X Hordak fic! (with Netossa and Spinerrella’s participation)

Author’s note: Guess who’s back with more puppy/kitty fics nobody asked for?! That’s right, it’s me! Really wanted to make a double date involving our beloved mad scientists, and with fanart this time! I really hope you guys enjoy this one and tell me what you think! I love hearing you guy’s criticism!

Read it on Ao3!

-Pink-ish, or purple-ish? Pink-ish... Or purple-ish...? Hummm...

Entrapta compared both bow ties, one in each paw, trying to decide which one best matched with her new tuxedo. In other cases, she would ask Double Trouble, who by far had a better knowledge of clothes and "style" than her. But they were busy today. And in other, other cases, she would ask Hordak, who was also busy at the moment, putting on his own dress. -Entrapta? Is something wrong? -Hordak asked from behind the fitting room's door. -No, nothing's wrong, I just don't know which bow tie would look good with my tux! -She said, frustrated. -Could you help me? -In a moment, dear! Entrapta growled. She didn't have a moment! Emily, noticing her frustration, looked up at her from beneath the large bed and beeped worryingly. -Oh! Emily! -The princess jumped down from her comber. -Which one? The dog raised the bow ties for the robot to see. She looked between both for a moment before settling on the one at her left paw. -Purple-ish it is! -Entrapta declared, tossing the pink-ish bow tie over her shoulder. She hummed a tune while going back to her comber's mirror to tie it to her tuxedo. Her ears raised as she heard rustling behind her and steps. Probably just Hordak getting out of the dressing room. -Did you need something? -He asked. -Uh, no, I solved that problem, but now I have another one! -She said. -Can help me tie my- Uuuhhh...! He was absolutely dashing. His dress wrapped perfectly around his hips and loosened around his legs, leaving them in clear sight. A long cape on his back dragging on the ground with his tail. He had black lipstick and nailpolish on, and a rogue lock of fur fell on his eyes in a curl. What a lucky dog she was! She whistled at him in a teasing tone as he walked up to her. -Oh, stop it! You've seen me in this dress a thousand times before! -I've seen the sunset a thousand times before, doesn't make it less beautiful! -She said, her tail wagging. A low purr escaped him as he helped her with her bow tie and adjusted the plastic flower on her pocket. The last time she tried with a real flower, she wouldn't stop sneezing. Emily beeped at them sadly as she handed Entrapta her very small top hat. Hordak pat her in a gesture of comfort. -Oh, I'm sorry, Emily. I know you wanted to come. But this is a date! Meaning "only couples allowed"! -The Princess said. -But Kadroh will stay with you! And you can watch movies with Imp! Emily beeped excitedly again, rolling around the room, knocking things off shelves and tables. Entrapta laughed at her companion, and Hordak raised a paw for Emily to stop when she approached them again. -If Double Trouble shows up unnannounced again -He told her. -Shoot at will! The robot beeped an understanding sound, ready to follow his orders. She ran out off the room when Entrapta opened the door into the corredor. -Are you ready for our first "fancy date", lab partner? -I am. -He said, his tail held high. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- -I'll show you a thing or two about romance! -Netossa said in an awfully confident voice. Spinnerella rooled her eyes and chuckled. She loved her wife's overconfidence on herself, and this date had been her idea after all. She rested her tail on Netossa's hip and they kissed. Her wife's gaze changing from confident to love-struck, and she couldn't help but smile. -Good afternoon, my ladies! -The receptionist exclaimed. He, just as the rest of the staff, wore a tux and had his fur straightened with gel. -Good afternoon! We have a booking under the name "Netossa"! -Hmmm... I'm sorry, my lady, but I don't believe we have a booking under that name. -What?! Oh, no, did I call the wrong restaurant?! -Real smooth, "Juliet"! -Spinnerella laughed. -D-do you have any tables for two available? The receptionist checked on a list in his table. -Not at the moment, I'm afraid, but the waiting time is 20 minutes, if my ladies don't mind waiting. -He said, apologetic. -Of course it is... -She sighed, her ears dropped in defeat. -I'm sorry, Nella. Do you wanna go somewhere else? Spinnerella smiled wide, her tail wagging, as she hugged her wife in comfort. -I don't mind waiting! We did want to try a new place! Netossa smiled a little, her tail wagging as well. -We'll wait! -I'm glad! Just wait in the reception, please! I will call you when the table is available! They sat on a little red bench with large cushions, others sat with them, waiting for their tables as well, talking. A large window on the opposite wall gave a beautiful view of the outside, a large garden and the sun setting behind it, giving place for the stars. -I have a good feeling about this! -Spinnerella held her wife's paw on her own. Netossa raised their paws and kissed Spinnerella's. -I have too! They stare into each other's eyes, stuck in their own little world, until they hear a very familiar shrill laugh. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- -So fancy! -Entrapta exclaimed. She raised her paws to look at the large red carpet underneath them. Her tail wagged madly with excitement, making her whole backside wiggle, and while Hordak found it most endearing, it earned some strange stares. Either that, or his own presence. He couldn't tell. Hordak knew better then to judge others for their appearance, but he couldn't help but make assumptions. Some in the line behind them whispered and pointed, some in the front tried looking at them without being noticed. Entrapta was distracted, touching everything she could. It was all very velvety and she enjoyed the feel of it. Hordak had to nudge her gently to get her attention back when their turn came. -Hello! -She approached the receptionist. -Oh! Princess Entrapta! What an honour! What brings you here toda-AAaayyy... -The receptionist's expression fell from welcoming to absolutely terrified for his life when he saw Hordak. -Do you have a table for two? -Entrapta asked. -Oh! W-well... We have a waiting list of about 20 minutes, if you don't have any bookings, my lady... -He said, trying to recompose himself. -Which, of course, I completely understand if you don't want to wait that long! Hehe... M-maybe choose another restaurant... -No, we can wait! Right, Hordikins? -She turned to Hordak. -You don't mind waiting? -I don't mind at all. In fact, waiting may be better. It'll help my appetite. Hordak tried to keep his voice calm, but he couldn't help but pin his ears back. He had his eyes fixated on the receptionist, and opened his mouth to lick his lips, purposefully showing as much of his sharp fangs as he could. The receptionist's ears dropped and his face was turning pale. -R-right... Just wait at the reception, I'll call you when there's a table available... Entrapta smiled as she walked past him, Hordak followed after her, but shot the receptionist the nastiest side-eye he could manage. The princess chose a nice little red bench to sit on, right underneath a large window. The sun had just set and the night sky was filled with stars. Entrapta rested her paws on the window stop to admire them, her tail still going. Hordak smiled and sat beside her, her ear wrapping around his tail. -I'm still not used to them! They're so beautiful...! -They are. A moment of silence, and Hordaks smile fell. His worries starting to aggravate him, and feeling other's stare wasn't helping at all. Entrapta noticed his anxiety and took his paw in hers for him to look at her. -Hordikins? Is something wrong? -I'm not sure... -He sighed. -I suppose... I'm just not very confident. We are incredibly out of our element, and I don't know what to do with myself... -I understand. It wasn't easy for me when I first starting hanging out with the other princesses too. -She wrapped her ear around him and pulled them closer together. -But you don't gotta do anything! We're here for us! We'll have a nice dinner and it'll be super fun! You'll see! -Correct, as always, my dear. -He smiled at her and nuzzled her cheek, purring. He wrapped his tail around her as they held each other and Hordak felt his anxiety start to calm. -Entrapta?! Their ears raised and they turned to look at the awfully familiar voice calling the princesses' name. -Hi! -Entrapta wagged her tail. Hordak recognized the dogs sitting behind them, though they were wearing much more expensive clothing. They were princesses, married to each other. He had seen them before in previous Princess Meetings, but he couldn't remember their names. But Entrapta seemed to recognize them, and they seemed to recognize Entrapta. -What are you guys doing here? -What are YOU guys doing here?! -The taller dog asked. -We're out on a fancy date! -Entrapta said, proudly, pulling Hordak closer as to show him off. -Really? -The smaller said. -We didn't know you liked this kind of place! I mean... We know you have trouble with food sometimes... -Yeah, I do! But I really, really wanted to try a fancy date! And Double Trouble said this place was good! -Entrapta turned to the cat. -You guys remember Hordak? -How could we ever forget...? -Netossa! -What?! -Hordikins, do you remember Netossa and Spinnerella? -I do. -Ah. So that was their names. -Pfft! "Hordikins"? -The one they called Netossa laughed. -Only Entrapta calls me that! -He growled. They stared at each other aggressively. -Netossa! Quit it! -Spinnerella barked at her wife. -S-so, you came here on a date, right? What a coincidence! We're here on a date, too! -Are you?! That's awesome! -Entrapta gasped, an idea forming on her head. -You know what we should do?! We should do a DOUBLE fancy date! -Oh, yes! -What?! -Hordak and Netossa asked at the same time. -It's been so long since we've had a double date, Net! -Spinnerella said. -And we for sure never spent enough time with Entrapta! Or Hordak! -Uhhh... You sure about this, honey...? -I have to agree with... Netossa, beloved. I don't believe this to be a wise idea. -Hordak hesitated, the princess' name unfamiliar to him. In a strange place, with strangers, in such an intimate occasion. Hordak knew it wasn't as serious as he was making it, but the fear of something going completely wrong clawed at him. Entrapta raised herself to his eye level and put a paw on his shoulder. -Don't worry, it's gonna be fun! I promise! -Entrapta reassured him. Spinnerella left Netossa's side only to approach the receptionist once again. -Excuse me, could we maybe move to wait for a table for four? We found our friends here, and we would like to sit together! -She asked him politely. -Oh, of course, my lady! -He looked over her shoulder at Hordak, and the cat glared at him again. The receptionist gulped. -W-well, if you choose to move to a table for four, we have one available right now. If you still wish to dine here, o-of course! But I'm sure you don't- -Oh, yes, please! That would be wonderful! -Ah. Follow me... Defeated, the receptionist guided them through the tables to a nice sofa at the end of one of the corners. He tried to ignore Hordak for the most part, though he could feel the cat's gaze burning on the back of his neck. Though it was somewhat far from the other tables, Netossa couldn't help but feel others' gaze on them. It wasn't unusual. They always earned a few stares when they went out, after all, they were princesses, everyone knew who they were, but she noticed an awful lot more of stares than usual. -Here are your menus. -The receptionist said hastly. -I'll have a waiter come and take your orders in a moment! Before Spinnerella had the chance to thank him, he ran to the kitchens followed by two other waiters. Confused, she turned to the others. -So, what are we eating tonight? -There's no pictures on this menu! And all the names sound weird! -Entrapta said. -But I'll eat anything if it's tiny! How about you, Hordak? -Red meat. -He answered, still looking at the menu. -I really want some pasta! -Spinerrella said, sharing her menu with Netossa. -Darling, do you mind sharing it with me? -As long as it got a bunch of cheese, I'm good with it! -Netossa licked her lips. -Are we ready to order, then? Before anyone would answer, Netossa had already called a waitress who was passing nearby. She approached them with a smile, but her expression fell when she noticed the large red-eyed cat. She gulped. -Good afternoon, my ladies! What would you like to eat today? -she asked with a notepad on her paws. -Do you have any pasta? -With cheese? -Yes, we do have our "Gnocchi Alla Bava", it's our special for today! -the waitress pointed at the name on the menu. -Then one of those for us both, please! -Netossa held Spinnerella's paw. -How about you guys? -Do you have anything tiny? -Entrapta asked the waitress. -Well... We have the "Mozzarelline Fritte"... But tha- -Great! I want one of those! -Entrapta interrupted. -Alright... And what for the main course, my lady? Entrapta didn't respond until Hordak whispered in her ear the waitress was still talking to her. -Huh? What main course? -"Mozzarelline Fritte" are appetizers, my lady. You are suppose to order an actual dish for dinner after the appetizers... -Oh. Uhhh... What else is tiny other than that? -Entrapta read the menu again. -Nothing, my lady... -Then I'm just gonna want that! -You sure, Traps? -Netossa asked. -What if you're still hungry afterwards? -Then I can order more! Netossa and Spinerrella exchanged looks. -Well, alright... -the waitress said, turning away from the table. -I'll take your orders to the chef, if that is all- -That is not all! -Hordak growled. -You haven't taken my order! The waitress gulped and turned back. Instead of asking she just gestured for Hordak to speak and refused to look him in the eyes. -Do you have red meat? -he asked. -"Brasato al Barolo". -the waitress answered coldly. -I'll have that. Well done. She turned to the kitchens without another word. Which they all found quite rude. Entrapta on the other hand, had her tail wagging madly and clung to Hordak's paw like her life depended on it. -This is so exciting! I've never been to a fancy restaurant before! -Never before? Never, ever? -Netossa asked. -You don't know what you're missing, Traps! We love coming to "fancy restaurants"! -Oh, yes! The food is good, the waiters are very polite- -To you, maybe. -Hordak growled. Netossa shot him a side-eye and wrapped her tail around Spinerrella's hips, bringing her wife closer to her. Spinerrella, noticing her wife's worries, rested a paw on her shoulder as to calm her down. -Maybe she was just in a rush! -Entrapta told him. -Maybe she didn't want to look at your fa- OW! Netossa had whispered to herself, but Spinerrella had over-heard her and given her a pinch to stay quiet. Hordak pretended he didn't her the dog's almost offense and turned to Entrapta, who fidgeted with her paws while looking around. She noticed a table full of older dogs, also wearing expensive dresses and jewelry. They looked over their shoulder, pointed and whispered. Entrapta smiled and waved at them, thinking they were trying to start a conversation, but they turned back around when they realized they were noticed. Hordak pinned his ears back. Intimidating the waitress had taken his attention from the rest of his surroundings, full of whispering and strange looks. He told himself it was because of him, but a voice inside his head made him question if it wasn't because of Entrapta. For all they knew, she was secluded, had an unstable political relationship with the other Princesses, and worked for the Horde. For him. With him. And she made it very known and clear to all that she enjoyed every second of it. The thought disgusted him, but as he looked at her again, she noticed his eyes on her and gave him a smile. The cat couldn't help but smile back. In a small moment of relief, he bent down and kissed her cheek. So let them stare. -So... you both! -Spinerrella said awkwardly. -How are things for the two of you? Back in Dryl, I mean? -It's great! - Entrapta exclaimed. -The Brothers are having an easier time adjusting and I finally got Hordak to take an actual bath! -Entrapta! -he hissed. -That is personal information! -I understand it completely! -Spinerrella pointed at Netossa. -This one still has a fit over eating her veggies! -Veggies are disgusting! How very dare you! -Netossa barked. Entrapta cackled at the other couple's squabble. Hordak was still suspicious. Of what or who, he wasn't sure, but he wasn't as at ease as his lab partner. -You both are Princesses, are you not? -he implied to them. -But I do not seem to remember your kingdom from any map. I heard it's quite small... -And what if it is?! -Netossa growled. -Netossa! Shut! Your! Mouth! -Spinerrella turned to Hordak. -Yes, it is! It actually wasn't recognized as a kingdom of it's own until very recently, with Netossa's grandmother! -Really? How come? -Entrapta tilted her head, confused. -It basically works like a fief! -Netossa puffed out her chest. -There are rulers who the subjects give their services to, and in return, the rulers let the subjects stay and live on their land! Nana was pissed at Bright Moon at the time because they refused to count us as a kingdom or part of the Princess Alliance, even if our fief was enormous and we were the main source of sugar, cattle and wheat! They wanted us to keep paying taxes! -Fuck taxes! -Entrapta interrupted in an unfamiliar angry tone. -That's right, Traps! Fuck taxes! -Netossa cheered, her tail waging, while Spinerrella shook her head. -Nana stopped exporting resources and Bright Moon had to swallow their pride and let her in the Princess Alliance, or else they would have starved! -That's clever! I'm just glad Glimmer gave up on trying to make me pay my taxes! -Entrapta said. -I hated doing them! -I am glad too! -Hordak said, wrapping his tail around her. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- -So we're not going to do nothing about it?! -the waitress whispered, indignant. -What are we supposed to do? -the receptionist whispered back. -It's Hordak! Those claws cut through flesh like a hot knife cuts through butter! We can't just tell him to leave! -You're both right! -the chef said through the kitchen window. -Nobody wants him here, but if we tell him to go home, he'll rip our tails off and shove them down our throats! -He's bothering the other customers! I've had multiple complaints about him! -He's just sitting there! As long as he doesn't do anything, let's not turn his attention to us! -Hi! They all jumped. Expecting a claw to his face, the receptionist raised his paws to shield himself, only to realize it was not Hordak, just Princess Entrapta. -O-oh! My lady! Apologies, are you in need of something? -he recomposed himself quickly. -Yeah, where's the bathroom? I really gotta go! -she said. The receptionist pointed at a small corridor next to a bookshelf, near the kitchen. Entrapta turned from them. -Thanks! By the way, when is our food coming? We're really hungry! -In a few more minutes, my lady! -the chef said. -Apologies for the wait, but we have a full house tonight! -Oh, okay! Thanks anyways! -and she ran off. They all sighed in relief after the Princess was gone. -She doesn't look hurt, does she? -the chef asked, worried. -Even if she doesn't, I wouldn't be surprised if he hits her! -the waitress said. -We're getting too ahead of ourselves here! -the receptionist barked! -Just act normally and DON'T do anything stupid! The waitress huffed. -Watch me!

That’s it for this chapter! I’m nit sure how long this will be, but I will try my best to update it soon! Reblog if you liked it and I wish you the happiest pride month!

[falcor-thee-luck-dragon]

Rough Night

Bucky Barnes x (f)werewolf reader

Summary: Your life is already so weird, thankfully Bucky loves you through it all.

Warning: fluff, reader being a sass master w/ no filter

side note: couldn’t think of any cool avenger powers and then brain went werewolf so here we are

Masterlist

If you had a dollar for every time you’d ended up in the woods with ripped clothes and no shoes, well, let’s just say you could probably afford a real nice two bedroom apartment in some real pleasantly fancy building with a great view and all. Too bad green doesn’t just rain down from the sky every time the full moon comes round to knock you back into another world of blurry confusion.

You won’t lie to yourself, being what you are is strange and not very common in the slightest, obviously. It’s even weirder that you weren’t bitten one night and turned just like that, oh no, all passed down through the bloodline of other strange relatives. So you’re gifted with the curse, forced to inevitably change into a furry beast every single full moon, so what you’re still a mostly pleasant individual.

Well luckily for you, being born with the gift does happen to have its perks which do come in handy. For instance, you’re incredibly strong, quick on your feet, and have heightened senses, plus the ability to shift on command. It’s not all bad, well......most of the time.

Honestly you truly thought life couldn’t get much stranger for you and your whole hidden secretive situation, until low and behold some random red head found your little hideaway in a remote mountain side village far off in the Himalayas.

Everything was completely fine and under control and then BAM, she showed up with some important documents and something called an Avengers initiative and well shit, guess some time spent with the real world couldn’t hurt. I mean come on, some more friends seemed like a nice idea and uh, somehow they knew who you were so too late to run and hide.

Also at the time, considering you lived like a recluse on the edge of the village and of course for good reason, but damn if the red head didn’t just hand you an open invitation for some real adventure. Who were you to say no?

Fortunately for you, all seemed to go in your favor and fantastically enough, they had a nice big strong cell for you on nights when the wolf was inevitably bound to come out. A fridge full of plentiful snacks, a training room to lay off some steam, and a big safe and secure room all your own. It was perfect. Only problem was, there happened to be a very attractive and very wary of you super soldier who undoubtedly caught your attention.

How could you not, he smelled divine, muscles for days, thick thighs that could make a girl swoon, and he just seemed like the best goddamn hugger alive. Okay listen, maybe you were touch starved and deprived of human affection but dammit if your little monster heart didn’t skip a beat every time he was near you.

And yes, the few months it took to get him to crack was just down right torturous. But with some coaxing from Steve and encouragement from Sam, the winter soldier at long last did talk to you. Turned out he thought you were scared of him all along, how hilariously ironic you thought when he told you that.

But as time progressed and you both opened up more and more, a blossoming relationship sprouted forth, eventually evolving and manifesting into a big beautiful flower called love. Cheesy yes, but you couldn’t have dreamed of anything better.

And seriously, he wasn’t freaked out about your whole hidden hush hush secretive gift that usually either goes in your favor or ends up causing you major legal trouble. The man himself, Bucky Barnes, thought you were a marvel to behold, so odd and fantastic that he couldn’t stay away even if he tried.

And for that you could love him forever, especially now after a full moon while you’re out in the middle of nowhere. Hoping that the team will send your hundred year old boyfriend out to find you in the brisk dark morning after a grand unrememberable adventure. Which would be very nice of course, considering you have not a damn clue what you’ve done.....or where you are.

Cracking your back, you stretch your hands up to the dawning sky as a tired yawn escapes you. It’s been a long night and you look like a wild woman with your hear a fluffy nest and your clothes ripped in various unrevealing places thankfully.

Your surroundings are simply trees and small scraggly bushes, green grass underneath your bare feet and a small stream flowing in the near distance. With a second to listen, you can hear a highway a couple miles away to the east, guess that’s a start.

Rubbing your eyes you set out in that direction for about twenty minutes before a blue and gold Mercedes comes into view from the side of a country back road, it stops when you guess the driver spotted you from the tree line. Keeping a wary eye on the fancy sports car, you keep walking towards it until a figure gets out and leans against the passengers side door all cool and casual, then on further inspection you realize the driver is Bucky.

Yes! My knight in shining armor is here!

Trudging through the grassy field in the dewy morning light, he watches your every move, eyes crinkling in amusement as you come to stand a couple feet in front of him. Undoubtedly looking a bit wild, and very tired as you fold your arms underneath each other, giving your dark haired lover a shy almost fangy smile.

“I know I look like a hot mess.” You mutter with a shrug, biting your lip as you dart your eyes to the fields behind him, slightly embarrassed of the current disheveled state you’re in.

Bucky smirks before pushing himself off the car and engulfing you into a big Bucky bear hug to your pleasant surprise, “Y/N I’m just glad you’re okay and nothing bad happened to you.” He mumbles into your shoulder as you press yourself closer to him, letting yourself have this wonderful moment to relax and feel at ease.

Slowly pulling back to look up at him, you smile, “Aww Buck you were worried about me?”

He returns the grin, leaning down to press his head flush against yours, “We all were, me more then anyone else of course...and maybe for the general civilians nearby.”

You laugh nervously, “Oh right, yeah. Well hey, I didn’t destroy anyone's car this time. I think I’ve made progress.”

He pauses for a brief moment indicating he’s not sure if he should tell you something and this does make you nervous before Bucky finally lets out a little laugh, “You ate a whole cow Y/N.”

Snorting in surprise you quickly pull your head from Bucky’s, “What? Did I? Please tell me you’re joking.”

“Yeah, uh I wish.” He admits with a casual reassuring squeeze to your arm, “We tracked you with Sam’s suit tech, yunno Red Wing, and uh....you seemed to be having fun.”

Mentally and just about physically cringing at yourself, you purse your lips together in slight embarrassment, “Shit. Was it gross?” You ask, making a face that causes him to chuckle.

“A little.” Adds Bucky with another casual shrug to make you feel less terrible.

“Is the farmer going to see everything, I mean shit they’re gonna be so pissed.” You worry, biting your lip anxiously as you break eye contact from him. “Why am I like this.”

“Uh, that’s not going to be a problem.” Inquires Bucky causing you to find his blue eyes once again.

Eying him up suspiciously you raise a brow, “And why’s that.....Bucky what did I do?”

Taking a breath he gives you a small apprehensive smile, “Y/N...you uh, kind of ate......everything.”

“I what?” I did not! No way, right?

Giving you a quick kiss on the cheek he smiles affectionately, “I’m going to be honest with you here it looked like a kid with a piece of cake who has no impulse control, and loves cake....like a lot.....Rodney almost puked.”

Rolling your eyes you fake glare at him, “Oh god who all watched my little horror show?”

“Mostly everyone.”

“Jesus.”

“It’s like a car crash Y/N, we don’t want to watch but we can’t look away. Sorry doll.” He confesses apprehensively, though honest and sincere knowing you do feel bad for what you do when out of it.

“No.” You say honestly, pausing for a moment, “It’s fine. Seriously Buck, I’m just relieved you guys keep taps on me while I’m out, god knows I can’t help what I do and where I go. It’s nice to have people making sure I don’t injure any innocent bystander.”

“Yeah I guess so huh...alright Y/N/N,” Chirps Bucky with a beaming grin as he attempts to shift the mood to a less dull one, “let’s get out of here, I mean unless you want to sniff around the place for awhile...it is a nice forest over there and all but I guess we can stay and I’ll let you...”

“Alright Barnes, can-it or maybe I’ll bite you.” You tease with a playful squeeze of his bicep before breaking out of his strong grasp.

“Depends on the context maybe I’d enjoy it.” Adds Bucky sarcastically, side eying you with a half smile as you move to open the car door.

Shaking your head in playful disapproval you lightly shove him aside, “Believe me you wouldn’t.”

——

The ride back to the Avengers base or headquarters or facility, who the hell knows at this point, was actually quite smooth and peaceful. Then again you fell asleep as soon as Bucky made it onto the highway, and continued to catch a much needed nap for the next hour ride home.

No one ever said you were easy alright, but let’s be real, Bucky would let you put him through anything and he’d be happy about it.

After parking and walking down the sidewalk past some early morning trainees catching a run, the two of you made it into the Avengers official HQ where all your rooms and other luxury’s are located. But of course not before walking past the facilities giant living space and huge kitchen.

Just keep looking forward, keep walking, walk faster you idiot!

“Y/N!” Shouts Sam in that stupidly peppy obnoxious early morning voice of his, no doubt gaining the attentions of Steve and Natasha who are seated at the kitchens bar talking about some mission report.

Pausing in the large doorway that’s not giving you or Bucky a whole lot of hiding space, you take a deep breath before turning to acknowledge him, “You’d think people would be sleeping considering it’s only six in the morning.”

Chuckling, Sam raises his protein shake, “Weird,” He says while giving you a knowing smirk, “we missed you during training this morning.”

Nat and Steve conceal their amusement as you simply roll your eyes, “Yeah well it was a long night.” You mutter unenthusiastically, earning the tiniest laugh from Bucky which causes you to throw him a glare. Knocking that smile right off of his handsome stubbly face.

“Well we got all these shakes here if you two love birds want one. Hate to have em go to waste.” Adds the smiling man with a nod, if he doesn’t just love seeing you looking like shit. No Sam I do not accept this invitation for you to tell me how crazy I look.

Sam means well of course, but damn he loves teasing you in front of Bucky for a fun reaction out of him. And it’s kind of working, but not on Bucky.

“It’s fine Y/N, you don’t have to have one if you don’t want to.” Calls Natasha before taking a sip from her mug. “Just ignore Sam, he’s been annoying since the gym.”

Before Sam’s even able to speak you quickly narrow your eyes at him, holding up a finger before making hasty steps across the room. Stopping right in front of him, “Give it.” You deadpan.

Brows raised in surprise he glances from a confused Bucky, then back to you again, “Listen I only made so much, Y/N this is my breakfast okay you can’t just...”

Ignoring his rushed rambling you pull out the whole glass blender full of protein shake before taking a step back as the whole room goes quiet, then never breaking eye contact you heartily drink up the whole entirety of its cold contents without missing a beat. Yeah, definitely needed that.

After you’re finished you lick your lips in satisfaction, taking a step closer towards a speechless Sam as you set the blender back in its place. Giving him a satisfied smirk before walking back over to Bucky where you tug on his jacket to follow you down the hall and away from everyone else.

Sometimes you can’t help but be a little dramatic.

——

Laying sprawled out on yours and Bucky’s giant mattress, you stare up at the ceiling as he folds your clean and freshly scented laundry, your mind swirling with thoughts of what duties you have to be apart of today. Blah, work.

Sighing gently you glance at Bucky to see if he heard you, not getting anything from him you sigh again with more grandeur this time. Nothing. Rolling your eyes you suck in a deep breath before practically soft yelling out your exhale like the dramatic little beast you are.

Glancing over to Bucky, you watch as he turns around to put some of your pants away in a drawer. Okay then, that’s how it’s gonna be. Quickly sitting up, you smirk a devilish grin before silently reaching over to pick up a small pillow, once in hand you don’t think twice before launching it at full speed directly headed for the back of his head.

But before your decently soft projectile can smack his precious flowing locks does a metal arm swiftly reach up to catch it mid flight. Oh, shit. Bucky’s head turns to you, brow raised at you before tucking the pillow underneath his arm, and going back to his usual domestic duties for the day.

Okay, killer of fun Mr. James Buchanan Barnes.

Frustrated from lack of a reaction out of him, you stand up on the bed like a warrior about to give a great battle cry. Eyeing his cute butt up for a moment, you smirk once again before launching a sneak attack pillow right for his head. It sails magnificently across the room before a metal hand stops it in its place. 

Well, shit.

This time he gives you a proper look, full of mischief and a new profound playfulness that sends an excited thrill throughout your entire being. As fast as one of Thor’s lightening bolts does the pillow soar in your direction, but conveniently for you he’s forgotten just how quick you can really be. This is just what you wanted.

Dodging to the left you watch in almost slow motion as the fluffy cloth just misses your face, instead opting to smack against the back wall with a loud thud. Snapping your attention back to Bucky he narrows his blue eyes at you suspiciously while you let out an admittedly scary villainous chuckle.

Let’s party my love.

He hands you a smirk right before shifting his body to the right, arm cocked back and thrust forward just as quickly, launching his second pillow attack without an ounce of mercy. You see it coming a mile away and as graceful as a dancer do you flip off the bed, landing perfectly on the carpeted floor just as the pillow smacks hard against the door. Thwack!

Slowly standing, eyeing him up like a lioness to her prey, you give him a satisfied smile, “Missed.” You tease.

Letting out a breathy laugh, Bucky takes a cautious step in your direction as he tests the waters, “Y/N what are you doing?”

“Getting your attention you ass.”

Chuckling he takes another step forward, “Was I ignoring you?” Duh, that’s why I, oh wait he’s playing you.

“Well you certainly weren’t doing anything interesting.” You sass as he steps again closer, this time about an arms length away.

The corners of his eyes crinkle in amusement, “Okay that’s fair, but was the pillow really necessary?” He asks, though his tone is still humorous.

Not falling for his alluring charm you tilt your head to the side, a knowing smile breaking out across your face as he tries to register what your true intentions are. “Yes, and so is this.” You quip before dropping to the floor for a side sweep of his legs, in an instant he’s on the ground and looking wide eyed up at you.

God he looks beautiful. No, focus.

“Y/N!” He whines breathlessly, brows furrowed as he holds himself up by his elbows, “Now you’re gonna get it!”

Taking a quick step back you snort, “Oh really now?”

And he’s fallen for the plan.

“Yes, and when I get you, you won’t be laughing anymore.” He grumbles, trying to keep himself from laughing as well.

“Alright then hot stuff try and bring me down.” You snap back playfully as he rises to his feet, “First one pinned has to run with Sam later, and we both know how much fun he is to run with.”

Bringing his arms up into a defensive position he readies himself for an attack, “Yeah, I’d rather not be his jogging buddy today. I mean it is raining outside, but I know you’d look real nice after a wet run.” Teases Bucky with a smirk.

“Touché you smartass.” His lips twitch into a grin as you ready your own stance. “Now let’s dance.”

[raichijin]

⋆͛♡⋆͛ the hangover; mirio edition.  ❥ a one-shot.

━━━━━ 𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐂𝐇𝐈𝐉𝐈𝐍 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓. (tba)

preface; writing this was honestly so painful. a testatment to why i should never 1.) do collabs ever 2.) write long things. i am drained.

word count; 5k words.

starring; mirio, mina, shinsou, denki, unnamed boyfriend.

summary; after your boyfriend forgets about your anniversary, you spend some time with friends to forgive and forget about what happened. then it gets worse.

warnings; reader gets called some nasty names towards the end of the fic. watch out for that.

you were supposed to be spending this weekend with your boyfriend. at a resort, poolside, on vacation, or on a beach, or where ever he’d fancy peeling off the nice (read: expensive) swimsuit he’d gotten you for your five year anniversary.

he was kind, is kind, but not as committed to your relationship as he was to his job. not even a call as the clock struck midnight, almost an hour past your reservation, but a text the morning after with a short apology, and the sudden announcement that he’d be working late. again. you didn’t cry. wouldn’t, because shedding tears would cause a mess and a headache, and self-doubt is what’s tucking you in at night, telling you that maybe for tonight, tomorrow and the day after your feelings don’t matter.

cause his job is the one keeping you afloat. (your interest in the arts is cute, to him; like a hobby. nothing you could stay afloat with. it’s too risky, he insists, so to you, it became nothing. to others? it became offhand remarks at his high-end office parties. a joke to your in-laws. a breathed sigh of relief from your parents.) so more time is what’s best for the both of you.

that has to be it.

your friends figure out something might be wrong when you go ghost for days, bordering on a week.

you mention how it’s easy to lose track of time when you’re by yourself as you are, but they don’t buy it. say you need to loosen up, take a vacation of your own even when you say you don’t need it because you’re not working, give you sharp glares whenever you object. you don’t know why you thought you had a choice in the matter — especially when mina’s sugar mommy gives her enough money to afford 2 full suites at one of the most expensive hotels in the area.

denki also tags along, just cause, and brings his boyfriend; shinsou, with him.

if they know what’s going on, they never mention it. 

and it’s a little easier to cope that way.

you dip your toes, ease yourself into the night, before you’re being pulled into the deep end and your mind’s been left at the door, but your body is having a field day.

you should’ve blacked out two margaritas ago.

you think you did.

you’re too drunk to recall all of the rash decisions you made, or whether or not you maxed your credit card, but you’ve must’ve gotten separated from your friends somewhere along the way, because when you wake up, you are distinctly not in your bed, not in a tastefully decorated room, not in a hotel.

and mina, shinsou, denki? unless they’re in the adjacent room, they’re not here with you either. you’re still in your clothes from last night. your shirt is missing a button and you don’t have your shoes on, but beyond that, you’re perfectly fine.

a scraggly bed head lies next to you, who is, notably, more nude than you are.

he has no shirt. no shoes. no pants. his blonde hair is unruly and you’re so shocked you actually start to wake up. your eyes widen and you’re sitting up so fast you’re a bit dizzy from the sudden motion.

the room is spinning and you feel sick, the headache behind your eyes making you want to grind your molars into dust. and just as quickly as you sat up, you lay back down; shaking the bed with the force. the guy next to you isn’t as heavy of a sleeper as you hoped, though. he blinks open tired eyes, showing you the most exquisite navy blue, and the little bit of drool dripping down his chin might’ve been cute if he wasn’t a complete stranger.

though you can’t stave off the creeping anxiety, the silence as he comes to his senses doesn’t feel wrong, and you’re more confused than scared.

he rubs his eyes with the heel of his palm, and gives you a criminally bright smile, and though his voice is wrecked when he says “...g’morning, sunshine.”, you doubt yours sounds much better. 

the nickname makes you feel fuzzy, if only for a second.

“i, uh … good morning?” you sound awkward, but the guy manages to find humor in your predicament when he chuckles gently, sitting up without so much as a second thought. you can see more of his body when he does so, and when his hand comes up to ruffle his hair, you can catch the glint of a silver band, resting on his ring finger. 

then everything clicks into place.

did you cheat? was he cheating?

all of the things you’d been beating yourself up over settle thick over top like smoke clouds and a raging fire. you feel like you’re suffocating, and don’t realize you’re freaking out until a strong hand is wrapping around yours, which, in your panic, you squeeze.

you spot a matching ring on your hand, that you know for a fact wasn’t there before,

and you think that’s when you pass out.

you wake up (again) to a room with tacky but charming decor, the smell of breakfast, and considerably less of a headache than what you started with. now more lucid, with the strength in your body to walk and think, your first priority is finding your phone. you tap your pockets, check the bedside drawer and tables, under your pillow, in the cracks of the bed, under the bed.

no cigar. you’re digging through miscellaneous memorabilia, trinkets and clothes that aren’t yours for at least a minute before the guy you were laid up in bed with comes back to just to see you picking through the corners of his bedroom, banana in hand.

he stands in the doorway and clears his throat. he has clothes on this time, pants. “you’re awake? are you feeling any better?”

you startle, straighten your back and stand upright, your arms falling to your sides. “um, kind of. i — have you seen my phone?”

he shakes his head, offers you the banana. “you should have this though! it’ll fix that hangover, i think.”

“i … thanks.” standing and eating a banana in someone else’s bedroom is certainly … a time.

“i made some breakfast,” he says when you’re halfway finished, “if you want some.” he ends with a smile, and you feel those 3 shots of serotonin go straight to your brain.

granted, you shouldn’t be that happy.

he takes the lead and turns around, leading you down a narrow hallway into a quaint kitchenette with a lovely beach view and all the good summer vibes condensed into a single, small room. it makes your heart hurt even more when you realize you have someone home, someone expecting you to come back.

to a hollow apartment, a cold bed, a lukewarm welcome.

you have to force your brain to be quiet to even hear a fraction of what blondie is saying.

“alcohol basically just dehydrates you. the potassium stops that, gets you all your minerals and stuff back. i heard it works with beer, so i was thinking it works for other stuff too!” he sounds so chipper that it brings your mood up just to hear his voice.

so bold and sure, warm and kind.

“but if it doesn’t clear up in 30 minutes, i have some advil i can give you! don’t want you having a headache all day now.” he’s sitting you down at his small table and sliding some pancakes in front of you, some orange juice. eating feels like a chore, but you know you have to, or that you should try at least.

while you push around your food, blondie chatters away, and even if you just met, he has you entranced by the way he speaks. smooth like the butter on his toast as his stories flow effortlessly into one another, how easily he can chat you up is amazing; getting you from gentle chuckles to full blown belly laughter before you can get your first bite in.

there’s lulls in the conversation if you count the moments he takes to actually eat, but he keeps you on your toes with his personal anecdotes, and questions about yourself, forcing you out of your shell, little by little.

the thought of your boyfriend pushed back into the depths of your mind.

until you broach the topic of your friends.

you learn quickly that he’s a good listener, completely silent unless prompted, asking questions or making jokes only when you’re finished speaking. when he asks, you tell him about the ones that got you here, shinsou, denki and mina.

his eyes flash momentarily, a look of recognition, or maybe understanding, passing over him. he hums gently, head swaying as he does so.

“they’re a little rough around the edges but they’re like family, you know?”

“i get what you mean. they were very nice when i met them. especially at our wedding!” he sips his coffee.

“i — are you alright? you’re choking!” that you are. the guilt you felt when you first woke up and the rising panic ram into your gut like a freight train, and suddenly, you don’t want to eat anymore.

"what do you mean we're married?" you rub small circles into your forehead as this idyllic morning goes right back to being cruel hell. 

"yesterday, at the chapel," he twists his wedding ring with warm familiarity that makes your stomach churn. "i can't really believe it myself, like maybe we were meant to be? i know the universe works in strange ways like that."

you're sorry to burst his bubble, but you save the happily ever afters for fairy tales, not real life.

you pinch your forehead and heave an exasperated sigh.

"i have a boyfriend." you wrap your arms around yourself, trying to seek lost comfort. "and we don't know each other to begin with. can't even remember your name, i was so drunk."

you cradle your face in your palms, feel his stare bore into the top of your head.

"togata." you perk up.

“what?”

“my name. it’s togata. mirio togata.” 

“oh.” you rub your cheeks, pull them back with the heels of your palms.

“that’s a nice name.” an uncomfortable silence washes over you both before someone speaks up. mirio.

“so what do you want to do?”

you answer a little bit too fast in response. “i don’t know. i … i should call my friends. i still need to find my phone—” you stand up, ignore the onslaught of nausea, and look around the kitchen.

“help me look? and then … and then we can figure out all the other details later.” mirio carries both your plates to the sink, and busies himself with dishes for a brief moment, allowing you to find the bathroom nook and reorient yourself. you fix yourself up a bit, straighten out your shirt and fix your hair up. no time to take a shower.

you cup a hand in front of your mouth, breathe and sniff. eugh. 

“hey, uh, togata; got an extra toothbrush?” his heart might’ve lept when you called him by his given name.

“um! yeah!” rushing water obscures his voice a bit, but if he shouts he’s loud enough to hear. “check under the sink? i should have some there.”

“thanks.”

you rummage around in his cabinets, and in that time he’s managed to clean up the leftover food and put a shirt on. 

your phone having gotten lost or being stolen becomes more of a possibility the longer you think about it. you doubt you came back to his house to do anything but sleep. how many places could you have dropped it? you come out of the bathroom to mirio sitting back at the kitchenette table, holding his phone in his hand.

“hey togata … do you think you can call me?”

“i mean, sure, but i don’t know if i have your number...”

your anxiety makes you a bit snippy even when you don’t mean to be rude, but you can apologize when you get your phone back.  ”just give it to me then. i’ll do it.”

it rings a few times before someone picks up, which is a step up from going to voicemail, and the situation goes from okay to great when the croaky voice of shinsou answers, worn out and tired, but awake enough to make a greeting.

he says you’re not here to pick up the phone right now, you interrupt and say that this is you, and that you just borrowed togata’s phone to figure out where yours was.

“togata? who?” 

“my, my um. husband.” gingerly said, you can see mirio tense up in the corner of your eye.

“oh,” someone’s snickering away from the mic. denki probably. you can’t help but roll your eyes. “mirio?” you’re upset that he can remember his name but you couldn’t. “how is he?” you shoot mirio a look, he gives you a thumbs up.

“good. so, uh, where are you guys?”

two hours away. they’re two hours away by car and mirio’s pickup truck is exactly what you’d expect from him. it’s big, beat up, it’s blue, and it’s his pride and joy, even if it’s slow to start up. if anything, it feels a bit humbling to hear the low hum of the buzzing engine. brings you back down to reality, out of the lap of luxury.

reminds you of the way mirio laughs with his whole chest. that gentle, rumbling purr.

you’re sinking into the crunchy leather seat with a groan, then a laugh from togata; to which you swat at him. you give him the address so he can set it up with his gps, and get going. he messes it up a bit and then it’s your turn to laugh, much to his displeasure. he blushes from the embarrassment, and you pat his shoulder, still chuckling. it feels natural. waking up together. having breakfast together. unofficial road trip to meet back up with your friends because you got blackout drunk and are 100 miles away.

oh, right. you sigh softly and mirio looks over, thinking to comfort you by turning on the radio, greeted by soft pop and slow guitars.

the silence carries.

fifteen minutes into the drive, he thinks to ask about your boyfriend.

“what’s he like?” togata drums his fingers on the wheel with an air of anxiety almost, though you can’t imagine why he would be — unless he thinks you won’t react well to his question. you don’t mind however, and sate his curiosity without as much as a glance.

“oh, he’s nice,” your statement lacks the enthusiasm you’d expect when someone talks about their significant other. it seems sincere, yet exhausted.

“buys me whatever i want, when i want it, loves his job to death, and … we were supposed to be celebrating our anniversary this week.” dejection is visible in the way you slouch your shoulders, interest waning. mirio can’t help but exercise a little concern, filling in the gaps while he’s at it..

“and you couldn’t, because you came here?” you shake your head.

“what? no. i came here because he was too busy, and my friends thought i could still have some fun on my own. his job is important to him.”

“and your relationship isn’t?” your eyes narrow, glaring at him from the passenger's seat.

“the fuck’s that supposed to mean mirio?” 

“well, an anniversary is supposed to be more important than some job— don’t you think he should just take a day off? it wouldn’t hurt.” you lean against the car door, shoulder propping your head up as you peer out the window.

“i mean, i guess. but he’s keeping us afloat, so i can’t really complain.” togata’s eyebrows shoot up.

his tone is incredulous. “what, you don’t work?”

seeing you cringe away out of the corner of his eye is what makes him back track almost immediately.

“i’m so sorry! i’m — wow, that was completely out of line,” your embarrassment lessens when he apologizes, and you inhale sharply. 

“don’t worry. it’s, it’s fine.” you can’t help the way your fingers dig into the flesh of your arm, gnawing the inside of your cheeks, afraid of getting laughed at. mirio wouldn’t laugh at you, would he? 

“i, i used to make music. i was in a band in highschool, actually.” though mirio’s forced to keep his eyes on the road lest you two crash, you can see the way his smile reaches his ears, the silent ‘wow’ of awe making your cheeks heat up. high brow company doesn’t have much use for your talents unless it’s the violin, or something else that fits their lame-ass agenda. your bass chills in the back of your closet, a relic of the past, but a neat decoration.

you shake your head, too caught up in your own train of thought that you didn’t realize togata was speaking.

“i’m sorry, what’d you say?”

“oh! i was just curious, i asked if you sing?” you snort, then full on laugh, though mirio doesn’t seem to get the joke.

“oh, hell no. i don’t have the voice for it, nor the patience to do vocal training. i just played bass! thought it was easier than guitar because it only had 4 strings. i was wrong. maybe i could … show you sometime? i mean, it’s been a while, but i think i remember a few songs: have you heard of seven nation army?”

you talk with mirio about music at length, and learn that he’s a pretty big enthusiast himself and while he’s never played an instrument, he’s been interested in learning guitar. he brings up your band, and the memories of your senior year come flooding back; mina and denki convincing you to audition, your stage fright, recruitment later in spite of it. 

mirio can see the stars in your eyes when you speak, speaking so animatedly with clear adoration at the topic at hand, and he starts getting a creeping suspicion that back where you’re from, you don’t get to talk about this as nearly as much as you like. he realizes in the same breath that he doesn’t mind indulging you. he participates enough so you don’t feel like you’re chatting his ear off, but quiet enough to hear you fill in the empty space.

the way your hands move as you tell stories is adorable and so is your enthusiasm, he could hear you ramble for hours and never get bored. and he nearly does, it’s been an hour and you’re still talking — but then you take a breath, and apologize for no good reason.

he squints at you, confused.

“what’re you apologizing for?”

“i’ve been talking waaaaay too much. i’ve barely heard a word out of you for the last thirty minutes!”

“i thought you were having fun! i know i liked listening. besides, it looks like that you don’t get to talk enough about the stuff you enjoy. i’m willing to listen, so talk all you want!” the assumption makes you furrow your brow, and you hate that you feel like he’s right. 

your boyfriend either talks about his job, your friends, his parents, or nothing at all. no interest in music. no time for it. your friends enjoy reminiscing on occasion, but you don’t speak enough to them to get all nostalgic.

it’s … nice that he takes your feelings into consideration. you smile to yourself, saying nothing in response.

“we’re getting closer to the hotel — it’s 30 minutes away now.” it gets quiet again, before all the sounds you hear are the other cards and the slow hum of low volume music you’d forgotten about, coming from the radio. you turn towards the window to take in the scenery while mirio catches glimpses of you in his periphery, surprised at how adorable you look, doing even the most mundane of things.

mirio couldn’t remember much from the night before, well, can’t remember anything that wasn’t you. you weren’t completely out of it when you met him, but he could’ve misjudged, considering he wasn’t quite in his right mind either. didn’t know if it was the alcohol that made you so bold, but everything about you was so charming. 

from something as simple as your smile to how easily you chatted him up, despite his tendency to be a tad overbearing, you would take him and his attitude in stride. running around town, dipping in and out of nightclubs with your friends close behind, getting kicked out of said clubs, dancing and laughing together in another—

he huffs, pouting to himself. your boyfriend was so damn lucky.

he steps on the gas and starts going a little faster. you don’t seem to mind.

the rest of the trip was silence, and it wasn’t until he parked and stepped out of the car and said something.

“wow.” he whistles, low and long, until you pinch his arm to stop from attract the stares of passerby. “you guys could afford this? gosh. that’s like, three of my paychecks, maybe.” you chortled as he helped you out, quick to clear up any confusion.

“not me,” you walked in the lobby with him, going straight to the elevators after checking in with the front desk. “i could barely afford it! mina’s … uhm, girlfriend, paid for a room for all of us.” he arches a brow at the emphasis on girlfriend, but if he has any objections, he holds his peace.

“mmh. wonder what it’s like to be rich.” 

you laugh as you’re carried up a few floors, specifically to the more expensive suites, at least 12 floors up. “me too dude! mina is lucky.”

you’re barely knocking on the room door before denki is throwing it open and screeching, ushering you both in. they remember mirio from last night, which is upsetting, considering they don’t remember anything else: not how you got to mirio’s house, not how they got back home. not how they found your phone in the bathroom either, apparently.

“speaking of bathrooms, i’m gonna take a shower. keep mirio company, i guess." 

you have to look through your luggage for a change of clothes, and find your phone on your bed in your room, charging and you don’t think about going through it until after you’re clean.

coming back to nearly forty notifications from your boyfriend wasn’t on the agenda, and quite frankly, might’ve been a sign. some were calls but most were all lower case texts, each more foreboding than the last. holding your towel up with one hand, you scroll through your messages with the other.

 what the fuck is wrong with you?

 who the hell is this guy?

beneath it, a video of you and togata. your pupils dilate, and a deeply rooted sense of dread clutches your heart. it looks like a screen recording off of denki’s instagram account, of you two dancing. not overtly scandalous, but too close for comfort.

have you been cheating on me? 

for how long

how desperate are you? i say i have a business trip and you take it as an excuse to slut it up somewhere else?

you’re fucking pathetic.

heart slowly sinking, threatening to beat out of your chest, you can’t find it in you to scroll through the rest. you barely have pants on before you’re calling him up, frenzied and feeling out of breath. the phone barely rings twice before you’re going to voicemail and hearing the beeping tone. 

fuck. fuck fuck fuck.

you hang up, and try again.

this time, he picks up on the first dial tone.

“baby?” you nearly yell into the microphone, while the other end remains silent.

“what is it.” his voice is hollow, not even asking a question; rather making a statement. you choke on your words, are quiet for a few seconds at most before he’s barking at you. “i don’t have all day. i’m busy.”

“t-that video. it wasn’t, it wasn’t anything—” something slams in the background that makes you flinch, and he takes it as a good opportunity to cut you off.

“so the wedding wasn’t shit either? the way he was holding you, looking at you like that, like some lovesick fucking puppy?”

“w-what? what’re you talking about honey? it’s nothing like that—”

“don’t get fucking cute with me. i’ve seen the photos. that girl mina doesn’t know how to not publicize your life.” you feel like dying. 

“i knew i should’ve never settled for you.”

“you don’t mean that—”

“shut the fuck up.” there’s more shuffling on his end, a deep sigh. you’re too shaken to speak. “i wasted so much on you. gave you a house, a home, just for you to repay the favor by being a two-bit whore, sit on your ass all day and complain, and waste my time with those stupid fucking hobbies of yours.” what’s more terrifying is that his voice doesn’t wane or waver. he means it.

“... honey, please. please just let me explain!” you hadn’t even noticed the tears until you’re wiping them off your cheeks, your sniffling getting louder until you’re full on sobbing.

“there’s nothing left to explain. get your shit out by tuesday. we’re done.”

the line goes dead after that.

you don’t realize how much time has passed since you went to go shower initially, only that it’s been a while, considering how urgently mina starts knocking on the door.

“baby, are you alright? you’ve been in there for half an hour!” you can’t find it in you to respond. all it results in is choking on your own words, coughing and sobbing and tears and this fucking headache.

you don’t want to be seen.

mina announces that she’s coming in, and conversation behind the door quiets down until you can’t hear it anymore. just your own thoughts. she opens it and finds you in the corner, your knees to your chest while you’re just barely dressed, hair soaking wet. crying feebly until she rushes over and asks what happened.

you show her your phone. the texts.

she wraps her arm around your back and helps you up. hands you a towel so you can finish drying yourself off, and picks out some clothes for you to wear. when she turns around, she’s greeted by the concerned faces of your friends. mirio.

her face morphs from a look of concern to pure rage.

“what the fuck!?” she all but snatches your phone away from you, to which you pull your hands back and cradle you legs again. “who the fuck does this asshole think he is?” she looks down at you just then, and sees the red in your eyes, the tear tracks that stain your cheeks and a few drops dripping off your chin. you need your help more than you need her rage and half hearted insults. 

“you yelled.” shinsou states plainly. “is everything alright?” mina approaches them and ushers everyone out, closing the door, presumably to give you some privacy.

you dress slowly, the few minutes feeling like an eternity before you’re reaching for the door handle, clean and feeling like shit, for different reasons other than a hangover.

when you emerge from your room, mirio gives you a hug.

a hug that you melt into. one that you weren’t expecting but squeeze him back just as hard, tears that didn’t quite make it out seeping into the spot where you press into his shirt. his arms are comforting and strong, rubbing and patting your back gently, until the room is silent beyond your heartbeat and your sniffles, your friends milling about in the background.

“he said i have to move out.” your fingers dig into togata’s shirt. “pack up all my stuff and leave but i don’t know where i’m supposed to go—”

there’s a smaller hand patting your back when mina speaks up.

“d-don’t worry.” you can feel her hugging you too, a special warmth blooming in your chest. 

“we’ll figure something out.”

while you’re leaving the hotel, mina makes a call to her girlfriend camie to explain the situation, and by the time you’re back in mirio’s pick up, she said that camie offered to rent you an apartment in her name. the earliest she can get it was by monday, so she offered to let you spend the night for a couple days as well. denki says that he and shinsou could help you with things around the house: shopping, redecorating, etc.

togata is the one who offers to help you get your stuff. you arrange the date for monday, actually exchange phone numbers, and meet up at 8.

it makes sense; his car has enough space in the back, you don’t have much of your own stuff, but you nearly regret accepting the offer in the first place. something about moving out with your … husband in tow doesn’t sit well with you. almost seems like it’s too soon. 

but mirio’s charming enough to make the whole ordeal seem less like a fever dream. you’re beaming at him by the time you’re all done, laughing and smiling and so infectiously happy. by the time you both wind down you’re out of breath, wheezing in the front seats of the car.

he smiles fondly at you.

you can feel your cheeks heat as you return the sentiment.

then both of you are back on the road. the musics louder this time, and you get to show him how shitty you sing; which he insists isn’t so bad after all. it’s after twenty minutes of this that you’re suddenly struck by the irony of it all. 

“i can’t believe our first date with you was me moving out of my exes apartment.” mirio chokes on his spit, cheeks bleeding red as he does a double take, eyes flitting from the road, back to you, back to the road.

“wait.”

“that was our date?”

𝔱 𝔞 𝔤 𝔩 𝔦 𝔰 𝔱 ;  @mitsusuri​ @okayshin​ @tamasoft

[nothing-but-dreamy]

TRUE COLORS ~ Ch. 1

Summary:

Maya is the sister of Gary Kayes, the Chicken Feed food truck owner, and from time to time, she helps him out. Everything seems to be as usual until a certain android comes along.

Suddenly, she sees herself faced with the task to explain emotions to an android who seems to be kinda lost in the world.

Pairing: DBH!Connor x OC!Maya

Words: 1.450

Warnings: small cursing? (It's Hank you know....)

A/N: So, this is my first series for DBH. I hope you enjoy it, guys. Feedback is always appreciated. Have fun :)

It was raining… again… well, as always…

As Maya looked at the gray sky, she asked herself how much water could be held in clouds generally AND if Detroit was the only place on earth where it rained so much. The weather forecast already announced snow coming the next few days. Different weather phenomenon, still wet. Maya was sure she could already smell the upcoming weather change in the air. There was something special before it started to snow.

Gary, Maya's older brother and the proud owner of the Chicken Feed, greeted the next customer Pedro and brought her out of her thoughts back into reality.

As Pedro spotted Maya, he greeted her with a wide, winning smile, showing off his white teeth and curved one brow what should look like flirting she guessed.

"What a beautiful sight for sore eyes. You should show up more often, sweetheart."

"Come on, bro. You already know that: no flirting with my baby sister.", Gary said playfully very serious.

"Yeah.. yeah… yeah... Calm down Gary, you just think no one would ever be good enough for her."

"Because it's the truth.", Gary said convinced but with a smirk on his lips.

"Excuse me, brother, but do I have to say something about it, as well?", Maya asked with crossed arms and one tapping feet. Gary turned his head slowly into her direction and pretended to think.

"No, not really.", Gary admitted grinning and shook his head. Maya rolled with her eyes and caught sight of a familiar, old car that had just arrived: Hank Anderson. He came over for his usual lunch break. It seemed to be a day like everyone else. Hank left the car and crossed the street, almost hit by an independent driving taxi.

"Hey, Hank. The usual?", Gary asked as the older man stood in front of the truck. Hank nodded.

"Hey, Hank! Long time no see."

"Hey, Maya. Good to see you.", Hank greeted her with a smile.

"Plastic with you?", Gary asked as he saw the android sitting in Hank's car. Maya looked curiously into the same direction and tried to catch a glance at it. The android left the car and crossed the street to reconnect with its partner.

"Only temporary.", Hank answered after he gave Pedro a small amount of money for the next bet. Pedro waved goodbye and left. The android stood behind Hank and waited patiently. Hank needed a moment to realize that the android was behind him.

"Oh, god damnit!", Hank cursed as he noticed the android next to him. The android was soaked by the pouring rain but it didn't seem to care at all.

"You don't have to follow me around like a poodle!", Hank grunted but the android didn't seem to be impressed.

"I'm sorry, Lieutenant, but my instructions are very clear.", the android answered. Maya noticed its smooth voice. She liked the sound of it and was intrigued immediately.

"Your new partner, Hank?", Maya asked very interested and looked at the android with a smile.

"Yeah...Unfortunately.",Hank muttered under his breath and rolled annoyed with his eyes.

"Don't listen to him. Hank's always a bit moody. I'm Maya. What’s your name?", she introduced herself to the android because she knew no one else would do it. It looked at her, inclining its head to the side. In that moment, she noticed the incredible warm shade of his soft brown eyes. As the light incided into them, she even noticed a hint of gold.

"My name is Connor. I'm the android sent by CyberLife.", he introduced himself politely.

"Nice to meet you, Connor.", Maya said smiling. The android watched her curiously, nodded and showed a soft smile as if he was imitating her behavior.

"Since when are you Hank's partner? I haven't seen you around here before."

"Officially, I became his partner today. But we already worked together yesterday."

“Every second is far too long.”, Hank muttered.

"Ignore him. He doesn't mean it like this.”

“Yes, I do!”, Hank insisted but Maya waved his complaint aside with her hand before she focused back on Connor.

“And how's working with Hank, so far? I hope it's not too challenging.", Maya asked and leant out of the truck while she listened to Connor with interest.

"I'm programmed to adjust to unpredictable human behaviour-"

"Here you go.", Gary said a bit louder than necessary and gave Hank the ordered food and drink to cut off the android. He shoved Maya out of the way to stop her conversation with Connor. Hank took the food and walked to the next table.

"Hey! Don't leave this thing here!", Gary shouted.

"Don't worry. It follows me everywhere.", Hank said. Connor looked after his partner excused himself from Maya politely and followed Hank as promised.

"See.", Hank said, pointing out. Maya turned back to work but now and then, she glanced over to the place where Connor stood, talking with Hank. She wasn't very good at hiding her curiosity because slowly, Gary appeared into her field of view and stood next to her.

"What are you staring at?", Gary asked as he saw that Maya was distracted by something.

"W-what? Nothing!", she hurried to say and turned away.

"Don't lie to me, little sister. Your attention has faded since this plastic thing appeared."

"Don't call him that! That's rude."

"And you shouldn't refer to it as him. That's rude to real living beings."

"I can't believe that you say things like this!"

"Maya, I don’t want to have this kind of conversation again with you!"

"Yeah...right...because you won't ever change your opinion.", she muttered annoyed.

"That's right.", Gary said seriously and turned back to the next customer.

Once again, Maya was distracted by the android. He spoke with Hank about something even if Hank didn't seem to be delighted about it. There were snippets she heard about calories in the food and a question about a highway earlier this day. Maya heard how Connor asked if Hank might want to know something about the android. Immediately, Maya had several questions in her mind she would like to ask. Hank shook his head but stopped and asked something about the androids goofy appearance and weird voice. Maya couldn't understand this point of view. Both were things she already liked about the android.

Maya was indeed fascinated by Connor. He was tall with a slim figure. His brown hair was looking soft with one hair flip falling into his face. Maya imagined how smoothly it would be if she would slide her fingers through it. Maybe it was as soft as feathers. She had never seen an android like him before with his fancy suit and friendly, polite appearance. Maybe humans would trust him more easily because he looked so...cute? CyberLife really outdone themself with this model.

"Come on! Stop that shit!", Gary muttered under his breath more angry as he saw Maya's glance at the android as it crossed the street to go back into Hank's car. Maya made a face and stuck out her tongue to her older brother.

Then, she had an idea. She took a cardboard cup and filled it with Hank's favorite lemonade: pineapple passion. She took the cup, put a straw in it and left the food truck under Gary’s observing glance.

"Here you go.", Maya said and placed the drink in front of Hank.

"Thanks but I.. I didn't order this."

"I know.. I-It's on the house.", Maya said and looked over to the car where Connor sat with closed eyes.

"Maya?"

"Y-yeah?", she responded...a bit too late. Hank noticed that and watched the young woman with a raised brow. He looked from her to his car and back at her.

"What's so interesting over there?", he asked even if he already knew the answer.

"Uhm, oh...nothing."

"Bullshit. You're watching the android, aren't you?", Hank stated and watched how Maya's cheeks turned slightly pink.

"Uhm.. w-what? No! No, of course not!", Maya chuckled nervously but Hank saw that it was a white lie.

"Maya?", Hank asked more serious to build a bit of pressure on the young woman.

"Connor seems to be nice.", she admitted low.

"This piece of plastic?", Hank asked confused with a hint of annoyance in his voice. Maya noticed it and frowned why everyone seemed to despise the android.

"I like him.", she admitted with a shrug and was about to leave but looked one last time to the car. Hank watched her closely. Two more times, the young woman looked over at his car before she bumped into the corner of the truck and finally, she disappeared inside.

[pale-goblin]

A Little Twisted.

Chapter One: The King

Co written w/ @desertdwellerdanny

  It was late, later then Steve wanted to leave work. Working for his father’s business had been the worst mistake of his life. The long hours, business trips, and paperwork killed him. The only thing that added fun to his life was his body count and not in a sex way. Every business trip, he left a crime scene behind; it was an excellent hobby, a fun game. 

As Steve unlocked his car that was parked in the darkness of the street, he heard sounds coming from the alleyway—harsh breaths and muffled screams paired with the tell-tell sounds of struggle. There, barely visible in the alley between two abandoned shops, was a tall man dressed in dark denim and golden strands that fell over his shoulders in beautiful curls. He was pretty, despite, or maybe because of, the deep scowl etched into his features. The closer Steve looked, it seemed there was another person there, pushed up against the man and the dirty brick of the wall.

The curiosity got the better of him, and rather than sidle back into his car to drive 40 minutes to a dull house with boring people and boring television; he found his feet carrying him closer. Steve was friends with the shadows, staying well within them to edge closer to the struggle. It was when he had just made it to the opening of the alley that he heard the all-too-familiar crunch of bone and a strangled scream for help that sounded more gurgle than yell. The man was standing, staring down at the body and the bloodied mess he’d made of the wall and his hands. Shining, wet blood covered the front of him, splatters adorning the smooth skin of his face.

It was gorgeous. He was gorgeous.

Steve watched the rage boiling in the man’s face turn sour, listening to him swear under his breath. His blood-covered hands reaching for his blonde curls to smooth it out of his face. Steve smiled in the alley’s dim light. Seeing the reaction of a man’s first kill was titillating to witness. 

Steve’s first kill was cleaner, more planned, and he was 12. He had many years to fine-tune his skills and make sure he was hidden from people’s noses, Of course, unless he was too excited like now. Steve hadn’t noticed the can at his feet which he kicked into the dead body when he shifted his weight. 

The man got spooked, and in fear of losing this beautiful man, he put his hands up, showing himself.

“Wait, Wait, don’t run.”

The man’s hands were shaking, slight tremors running up and down his spine as he took Steve in. Those sharp, light eyes dragged over his suit-clad figure, and if Steve had been the type of man to blush, his cheeks would be dusted pink with the intense attention the man gave him.

“Who- I didn’t. He was,” his voice cracked, wide, terrified eyes looking down at the bloodied mess the victim’s face was, “What did I do?”

“Looks like you killed him,” Steve said calmly, eyeing the man’s messy job. “Poorly, I might add,” Steve kneeled, being careful not to get blood on himself. “Good spot though, dark alley, broken cameras.” Steve eyed the area, breaking it down for himself to see how easy this would be to cover up.

The man’s eyebrows furrowed, his body screamed defensive, waiting for Steve to shout or call the cops or something. But he didn’t.

“Who are you?” He spat, top lip pulling up into a snarl. He looked like a cornered animal, faced with a variable that had the ability to ruin him. Hell, he’d murdered someone in a blind rage—he’d already been ruined if it wasn’t for Steve, and isn’t that a nice little bit of luck.

Steve smiled when he locked gazes with the fear-filled blue of the man’s eyes. “Seems like I’m your guardian angel.” Steve winked—the excitement building in his chest was impressive; honestly, he was kind of turned on by all of this. “Wait here; I have a kit in my car. I promise I’m here to help you.”

The man stood flabbergasted, the blood coating the front of his shirt and up and down his arms starting to chill with the cold wind. Steve turned and made his way back to his car, nonchalant and even a slight spring in his step, the blond stranger left in the disturbing quiet of the alley. The silence was deafening, and it roared in the man’s ears.

Steve returned moments later, holding a large black case, wearing a rudder-looking apron and gloves. He had a smile on his face that seemed not to fade. "Can I ask you some questions? About this friend of yours, about tonight?" Steve placed the case on the ground, wondering if this was weird for him, this well-dressed stranger who happens to be a psychopathic murderer. "What's your name?”

The man’s mouth dropped open a bit, taking Steve even before giving a small, unbelieving chuckle and mumbling what the fuck under his breath. “You’re a nutcase, aren’t you?” He gave Steve a cautious side-eye before facing him head-on, meeting his gaze, “You can call me Neil. And that,” he said, pointing at the body, “is not my friend. But ask away if you gotta.”

Steve completely ignored Neil's stab at him for being 'crazy' Steve wasn't crazy—far from it.

"Did you have sex with him?" Steve mumbled as he pulled out a plastic sheet from his case and laid it on the ground.

Billy licked his lips nervously, hands tightening into fists at his side. “No! N-no,” he hesitated, stomach rolling uncomfortably at recalling what had made him do… this… in the first place, “He was trying to— he put something in my drink. But it must’ve been weak or some shit because I could still move. Kinda. I came-to here and kinda, just,” his nostrils flared with fury, eyes even beginning to blur with tears just remembering. He didn’t want to remember. “I didn’t give him the chance to.”

Steve snorted at himself as he dragged the body onto the sheet. Not at Neil's misfortune but the fact that he helped throw the defense case out the window if he got caught. "Then good riddance to this ass hole--" Steve went through the victim’s pants, pulling out a wallet but no car keys. Sad, he couldn't make it look like a car crash. "-- Mr. Bates." Steve read the ID in the wallet, pressing his lips together with a chuckle, "not anymore."

“Bates? That’s his name?” Neil gave an unbelieving laugh, giggles pouring out of him, quickly turning into hysterics, “Oh god. I’m sorry, it’s just. Like that one movie? American Psycho? Bates?” He covered his mouth with a trembling hand to quiet the chuckles forcing their way out of him, “Guess it’s not him that’s the killer this time, though.”

Steve loved hearing the laughter pouring out of Neil's mouth. It was sweet and gave Steve goosebumps just listening to it echo off the walls. He kind of forgot to give his name. He was still tied up in the blood and the blue of this man's eyes. "I'm Ste--no- uh Steve" Steve stumbled the words out of his mouth, giving Neil his real name with so much trust. His beautiful face was throwing Steve off his game.

Neil squinted at him, chuckles finally calming down a bit as he watched Steve work. “Steve,” he said slowly as if testing how the name tasted on his tongue. He must’ve approved because he nodded once before leaning back against the wall opposite to where he’d bashed the man’s head in and slid to the ground. He stretched his legs out, his foot just barely touching the body’s foot, and gave a little kick before letting his head thump back against the brick. “Well, what the fuck are we gonna do, Steve.”

        "Well, I'm taking this man home with me" Steve rolled the guy in the plastic sheet just not to make a mess of his car. "Since this was not planned, I will have to figure out how to get rid of the body, but we will clean up the blood and…" Steve's eyes flicked over Neil's body as he sat on the ground, which made Steve let out a disappointed sigh "...and we will get you cleaned up at my house."

“You’re literally helping hide a murder right now,” Neil raised an eyebrow at him, weariness pulling his features down and narrowing his eyes, “Why, pray tell, the fuck should I trust you enough to get into your car?”

Neil was on edge, hackles raised and expecting the worst from Steve. He’d narrowly avoided being attacked already tonight and instead managed to become a murderer in that short amount of time. 

“For one, you don’t have to trust me, and I don’t expect you too” Steve pulled a spray bottle out of the case. “But I’m the only chance you have right now” Steve kind of felt like he was

forcing Neil to come with him, but he wasn’t. If Steve wanted to have his way, Neil would have been knocked out and hogtied in the back of his car. Steve started cleaning the blood off the walls taking his time even though no one probably came down here much unless they were also criminals. 

Neil let his head thump back against the wall again, closing his eyes. His stomach was cramping with anxiety, and he still felt sick from earlier—the panic and disgust of being so vulnerable settled like lead in his chest.

“Maybe,” he peeked one eye open, lazily watching Steve scrub and spray at the chunky red mess on the wall, “Once I know for sure you’re not gonna fuck me over.” Neil still felt the fear clawing its way up from his chest, and yet in that mess of emotions, not one of them was guilt over what he had done. It had felt...right to kill him. Good, even.

Steve enjoyed the clean-up more than the kill itself; it added some kind of normal part to it for him. Steve never felt guilt but knew he wasn’t normal, but he didn’t care if he was. Steve looked back at the guy exhausted against the wall of the alley. “The anxiety will pass,” Steve mumbled, giving him a shy smile. “Then you will taste true freedom.”

Neil snorted, taking a deep, shuddering breath. “You sound like you’ve done this before, pretty boy. Run into a lot of murders, do you?”

Steve laughed. “I don’t run into a lot. It’s not like we have a club or anything,” Steve cleaned up the last bit on the wall before moving to where the body has been sitting. “But, I have done this before, 42 times counting helping you; I’ve even got a fancy killer name now.” 

Neil’s eyebrows shot up, face sobering, “Really now?” He looked nervous. Funny almost, like there’s a difference between killing 42 or 1 with his bare hands. “And what would that be? How so many?”

Steve licked his lips as he looked up at Neil. “They call me the King; I haven’t been caught because I don’t kill in the same city twice in the same year. They only connected the dots a few months ago.”

Neil’s eyes grew big, mouth propping open as he took in the killer who had just started to take over just about every news story as of late. “Holy fuck. Bullshit.” he sat up against the wall, pushing up off of it to stride over to Steve as if getting a better look at the man would help him make the connection to a faceless serial killer. “And you’re helping me? Now?” his face screwed up in confusion, taking yet another step towards Steve, “Why?” he said quietly, peering into his eyes as if trying to find the answers to all the questions clogging his brain there.

Steve shrugged. “My life is boring, and you’re just the excitement I needed today.” Steve stood up and finally finished the rest of the work. He watched Neil check him out, trying to figure out what was not very hard if you knew how to look. “Do I scare you?”

Neil didn’t answer right away, keeping his intense eye contact and considering the question with a low hum. “No. You don’t.” He settled on, stating it firmly and with conviction. Steve was terrifying, but the shine in Neil’s eye confirms that he would rather die than let him know that.

Steve made a face when he looked interested more than he was before in Neil. "Well, come on then" Steve put his stuff away, closing the case up and handing it to Neil with a wink, "unless you want to get caught, that is" Steve smiled faded at the possibility that Neil could just say no and run, but Steve would make sure his actions had consequences.

Fortunately, it seemed Neil had better common sense than that and hesitantly stepped forward to take the case. “You look like you know what you’re doing. I’d rather take your lead than to spend the next 30 years in prison.” Neil replied in perfect deadpan. He wasn’t a fool—he knew what happens to boys like him if he was targeted before being in a building full of men with his being as pretty as he was… well, that’s just asking for trouble, isn’t it?

Steve smiled. "Smart boy." Honestly, Steve would have so much fun with this guy; maybe they would even kill together. Hmm, the idea of that, the excitement of it. 

Steve picked up the body, throwing it over his shoulders like it was nothing to him--it was unfortunate he would have to get rid of his suit because of this. Hunting in clothes you wear is never a good idea with fibers getting everywhere. 

"My car's not far."

Neil slowed, eying how easily Steve had manhandled a grown man’s dead weight. He wasn’t sure if that added to the intimidation or stirred something in him. Neil gave his head a slight shake before gripping the case in his hands tighter and following Steve back out to his car.

It was a fancy thing, sleek black and probably more expensive than Neil had ever owned or even touched.

Steve opened the trunk of the car and placed the body down into it. Honestly, all of this tonight made him yearn for another hunt, but he wasn't going on another trip for a few weeks. 

Steve let out a sigh as he grabbed the case from Neil and put it in with the body, and removed the extra attire he was wearing. 

"Get in the back seat. I already put a sheet down for you" Steve opened the back door like a gentleman. Steve wondered what Neil was feeling, how much excitement was kicking in? Did he feel good? Steve always enjoyed the thrill of it all, but he wanted to know how other people thought.

Neil pulled a face at his commanding tone, but climbed in anyway, face passive save for his ears’ tips that flushed a pretty red. “M, not a damn dog, yknow,” he mumbled out, although he understood the reasoning given the front of his shirt was splattered in blood.

He shuffled in, careful not to touch anything that wasn't the plastic sheet lining the inside of the car. “What’re you going to do with him?” he asked quietly, the meekest Steve’s seen him all night. 

Steve got out into the car’s front seat and fixed his mirror to see Neil in the back seat, getting to see him in a slightly better light before the overhead light in the car went out as he turned the car on. “Well, dump his body somewhere in a few days,” Steve smiled, thinking about how he could take credit for it. “Maybe cut something into his skin, take the top of his skull, and put it on my wall.”

It’s not something that’s been disclosed by the cops yet, at least not officially. Reporters have spread the news like cockroaches in hidden corners, whispering about how the serial killer King takes the crown of the victims’ scalps. It’s terrifying, really. Neil narrows his eyes a smidge.

“Why do you do it?”

Steve had never thought about why he did what he did; he only started doing it three victims into this game of his. Sometimes he does it when the people are still alive, watching the fear dripping from their eyes until the shock sets in. 

“They don’t deserve a crown.”

Neil hummed, “Who deserves a crown, then?”

Steve pulled out of the parking spot, locking eyes with Neil in the mirror. “I do.”

Neil held his gaze—feeling trapped by Steve’s shockingly clear brown eyes, and yet he felt no struggle or want to break out of it.

Neil is prey. Interesting, pretty, entertaining prey.

And Steve was going to eat him alive just to force him to submit to him. To admit how scared he is of The King.

Co written w/ @desertdwellerdanny

[idkthisisjustforfanfic]

two years too late, chapter t w e l v e

If there was anything in this moment that you hated more than Harry, it was the fact that you’d navigated all the way out to JFK in the rain to accompany your friends back into the city. 

Getting there was no easy feat in sunshine--but when the weather picked up and you made the trek on public transit, it seemed a bit too friendly for your current state of mind. Sure--they’d never been here before and maybe the subway system was a bit different from the tube or anything else they’d ridden overseas (rats eating pizza wasn’t unheard of, after all), but it still felt like a lot of effort to bring them all the way back over the bridge and part ways to avoid Harry altogether. 

You knew you’d have to see him at some point, but a Friday night after a full week of work left you too tired to deal--especially when you spent the day before (the 14h day of February) using all of your power to not sucker punch any single person who even mentioned love or relationships or any type of positivity whatsoever. 

Alyssa and Owen were the only exception--partially. She’d claimed it was too soon to do anything with him, but her tune changed when he happened to have tickets to a comedy show. She flew out the door with a scarf around her neck, promising to bring you any leftovers from dinner before she kissed you on the head. 

Everyone else was excited for the wonderful week ahead. Jessie had texted a selfie of the four of them--cheeks pressed together in first class before take off--you responded before you realized Harry was in the chat. Alyssa was begging to see them tonight instead of tomorrow morning, seeing as she’d had many FaceTime encounters but never the real thing! But when Jake informed you only thirty minutes ago that they’d landed, you knew it’d be a while before they got through customs and made their way to you. 

So you sighed, shoved your hands in your pockets and tried to ignore the echoing overhead voice of an airport worker. American Airlines Flight 1290 from Madrid: now at baggage claim 7. 

But then there was a voice, a tap on your shoulder and you swiveled quickly, a pair of blue eyes and a five o’clock shadow smiled down at you. “Hi--sorry to bother you--are you Y/N L/N?”

A nod--you tried to find words, but confusion took over your tongue. You were used to being stopped by girls your own age--people who read your work or followed you on twitter. Every once in a while it happened to be a guy, but it had yet to be one as attractive as the blond head  of hair in front of you. Adidas sweatpants, a backwards baseball hat on his head. 

“Yeah, hi--” you pulled a hand from your pocket and offered it towards him. “Nice to meet you!”

“I’m Patrick Martin, I work for Digitize--we’re a social media firm over in Long Island City--I thought I recognized you from your picture on The Scoop.”

“Oh god,” you scrunched your nose, an immediate flood of embarrassment through your bones. “I did not know it was staff picture day and I never wear my hair like that--”

“It’s a beautiful picture,” he laughed, “really.” An awkward beat. “But I just wanted to say hi. We’ve done some stuff with Whitney Hall--d’you know her?”

“Oh yeah, she’s my editor! She’s fantastic.”

“Yeah!” He adjusted the shoulder strap of a duffle bag he carried. “She’s great--I didn’t mean to bother you but I’ll give you this,” he fiddled with his wallet, produced a small black card that had his name, email, and phone number. “If you’re ever interested in growing your online presence independently of a media outlet, we’re here for that.”

You took it in your hands and flipped it over. “Thank you--yeah, I’ll uh, I’ll be in touch.”

“I’d love to take you for coffee or something sometime.”

“Incoming!” A crash to your side, arms wrapped around you before a gap tooth smile was in front of your face, freckled cheeks red from the running she’d done to leave the others behind.

“We’ll get in touch online,” Patrick smiled, his eyes scanning over Jessie as she adjusted the jacket she wore.  

“Sorry,” she laughed. “Didn’t mean to interrupt.”

“All good,” he said, his accent American and stark in contrast to Jessie’s. “Nice to meet you.”

“You too,” you offered a hand again, another smile when he turned and waved goodbye, a nod to your friends who’d undoubtedly cut him short. 

When you turned to see them, a grin stretching towards your ears, Jake opened his arms. “Smalls in the flesh--in America--how cool is this?”

“Pretty fucking cool,” Adam answered, shoving past Jessie to wrap his arms around you. “Happy almost birthday!”

“Another two days of being twenty-three!” Bryn took her turn enveloping, she reached a hand up to smooth your hair from Jessie’s crash landing. “Gettin’ old, yeah?”

You rolled your eyes. “Feels that way! You all got through customs that easily?”

“For fuck’s sake, Smalls, don’t say it like they should search us again,” Jake looked over his shoulder, hoping no one would decide to give them a harder time than they’d apparently gotten. 

“M’not! M’not, I was just prepared to wait a lot longer.”

“Well we’ve got to get our bags and then we’re all yours!” Jessie offered another grin, taking a few steps towards the carousel that would soon spit out their belongings. 

“All Harry’s tonight, actually.”

“Oh god,” she let out a groan, her arms crossed over her chest quickly. “Is this some type of split custody thing? Mom and dad fighting again?”

“Very funny,” you made a face at her, “you’re staying at his cause I don’t have the room--and I’m tired. Worked a whole week, you know. Big story on my hands.”

They didn’t ask, luckily. A shrill noise came from the carousel, it started moving and soon delivered all seven items they’d been waiting for. Four suitcases, two duffle bags. Jake and Adam lugged them off one by one, dropping them by their feet until Bryn pointed to each one. “That’s all of them!”

“Alright,” you said, pulling out your phone. You figured that it’d be easiest to just take the AirTrain over towards the A Train--right up through Brooklyn and home by 9pm. “We’ll take the shuttle thing over here,” you pointed in the direction of the doors, leading them out to a concourse where cars had already lined up for their arriving passengers. 

When you crossed the threshold, Adam pointed towards a man with a sign. “Think that’s for us?”

Jessie, Jake, Bryn, Adam, Y/N--a big white board in Roger’s hands. 

“Oh thank god!” Jessie immediately moved towards the big SUV--windows so dark you couldn’t see inside. 

“What are you doing here?” You tried to hide the disappointment--and anger--in your voice.

Roger offered a smile, clearly unaware of the recent developments. “He said it might be a tough trip back with all of these,” a gesture to the bags by your feet as he started to push them into the open trunk.

“No--we’re taking the subway!” Your feet were planted on the gum-stained cement, hands back in your pockets to protect from the unforgiving wind. 

“Not if we have this option we’re not,” Bryn smiled over her shoulder, a look in her eyes pleaded with you to just roll with it. You stood, still, watching as they climbed one by one into the waiting vehicle. 

“S’fine--he’s just being nice,” Jake came and tugged at your arm, his voice low enough so the  others wouldn’t hear. 

“Headed to yours or to Harry’s?” Roger asked, the last of the bag fitting perfectly against the others--Roger had apparently played airport Tetris before. 

“Harry’s please!” Jake answered quickly, giving you a gentle shove towards the back row of seats. You did it begrudgingly. You settled in between he and Bryn--too stubborn to admit that the subway would have sucked. 

So you listened to them laugh about the fancy toilets in first class--Bryn had tried to eat her weight in peanuts and Adam was asleep before they even taxied the runway. Jessie listed off the things she wanted to do and Jake begged for dinner as soon as you crossed over the Manhattan bridge. 

When Roger pulled up to the big glass doors on Greenwich St, you climbed out alongside them, arms crossed as you watched them all try to pull their suitcases from the mountain Roger had built. 

“Good?” Jake reached up to shut the trunk after taking one last look. Jessie moved towards the entrance, the doors parting to reveal a hooded Harry, he didn’t even look at you. 

“Hi lovie!” Jessie wrapped her arms around his neck, Roger offered a wave before climbing back into the car, promising to see you soon while Harry offered hugs. 

“Coming inside?” Adam turned to watch you over his shoulder, a gust of wind blew hair in front of your face. 

“M’exhausted--breakfast in the morning?”

“Y/N are you serious? We just flew ourselves all the way over the ocean to see you and you’re going to sleep?”

“What? I just--I worked, I dunno.”

“Come up for tea, at least,” his voice was smaller than the others, a shrug of his shoulders, his hands hidden in the middle pocket of his jumper. Fleeting eye contact, another gust of wind that seemed to kickstart Adam into motion.

“Yeah, tea, Smallsy, come on,” he was the first to make a move, he picked up his luggage and headed for the door, Harry’s eyes still on you.

If Roger hadn’t already driven away--his assumption that you’d also be staying the night only spoke to how out of the loop he was--you wouldn’t have followed them in past Mark, offering a wave before Harry swiped into the elevator. 

“This is so fucking fancy,” Jessie giggled, her face only a few inches from yours. 

You reached for your phone in your pocket, composing a desperate plea to Alyssa as the lift rose up to Harry’s floor. 

Come to Harry’s--stuck here for a while. Pls!!!!

They did the same oohing and aahing that you had done--wide eyes tracing circles around the room. The high ceilings, the hardwood floor, the art on the walls and the rug on the floor. 

Harry headed for the stove to put on a kettle, he told you to show them the two extra bedrooms. 

“This one has a king so--if Jake and Adam are going to be weird about being in one bed and wanting to build a pillow wall between them, this should be theirs.”

“We already decided to alternate each night between the bed and the couch,” Jake laughed, earning an eye roll from Bryn. 

“You’re both fucking wankers--you’re not going to accidentally touch willies in the middle of the night.”

“Girls down here,” you ignored their bickering, flipping on the lights in the farthest bedroom, navy walls and a white duvet. 

“M’gonna change really quick!” Jessie dropped a duffle onto the bed, unzipping it when Jake spoke from the doorway behind you. 

“Yeah I’ve gotta wee!”

They all seemed to disappear into their rooms, changing, using the loo, inconveniently leaving you to walk back to the living room alone, a message on your phone informed that Alyssa was on her way. 

“Milk?”

“Hmm?” You looked up from your phone, swallowed down the anxiety when you realized it was just the two of you.

“In your tea--milk?”

“Yeah.”

He already had six cups out--each with a tea bag resting inside. He rested his hands on the counter, lips parted as if he was about to speak, when the kettle whistled. 

“Much better!” Jessie appeared in sweatpants, her hair up on top of her head. “I smell like airplane, but I'll live.”

Harry pushed a teacup towards you on the counter, lips in a thin line when you picked it up and locked eyes with him. 

“You alright?” Jessie watched him closely, he cleared his throat when he realized she was referring to the way he was looking at you. 

“Yeah--just, uh, tired. Had a bunch of meetings today.”

You had no clue if that was true or not--it’d been a week since you’d last seen him, a week since  you knew what he was doing or where he was. A week since you’d stood in his living room with tears on your cheeks and anger in your veins. 

“Both of you, Jesus. Want us to fly home?”

“No,” you said. “We’re fine. So tell me about the meeting you had with the programme director. You like him?”

“I mean,” Jessie let out a laugh, reaching for her own cup before walking to join you on the couch. “He’s a total babe. Terribly smart, I think, too.”

“Most important part is that he’s single and his last wife died--” Bryn emerged from the loo, her face a mix of amusement and mockery. 

“Well if he was divorced that would be a red flag,” Jessie tried to reason. 

“But you’re excited to start?” Harry came around to the living room, he sat in a chair opposite you, his eyes on Jessie has if nothing happened. It almost felt like you were back at square one--back to a time where your feelings were a secret and like you’d never even dream of being honest with him. 

**

July 2014

“I can’t believe he made us come all the way down to London when they played in Manchester the other night,” Jessie looked at herself in her front camera, using the pad of her forefinger to wipe lipstick from her teeth. When she looked up at you, her eyebrows furrowed. “Can’t believe you’re not mad at him, honestly.”

“Oh relax,” you said, a strange energy seemed to spread through you, starting in your core and out towards your fingers when you reached down to pat her on the shoulder. 

She was seated on a couch--one in a green room somewhere inside the winding corridors of London’s O2 Area--Bryn was too busy trying to flirt with someone’s sister. Cool air blew through the overhead vents--a steady hum that did a good job of masking the buzzing in your veins.

You’d all done the math in the car on the trip down, a whole six months since you’d seen him in passing over Christmas. A quick hello at Annie’s--his last day in town before he was heading on vacation with his mum. 

Sure--maybe your friends expected you to be less than thrilled to see the boy you once dreamed about, but things felt different. Mature and grown up and far removed from the sad 15-year-old he’d left behind. 

And besides, there was Charlie. 

“We just found a signed picture of Jennifer Lopez in the hallway,” Jake’s voice was low and measured, as if he expected you to be just as excited as they were. Charlie and Adam nodded beside him, their eyes wide with excitement.

“She’s so hot,” the words fell out of Charlie’s mouth without much thought, clearly. 

“Right,” you said, a quick nod as if it didn’t sting--as if you didn’t practice calling Harry three times in Bryn’s bedroom to ask for another ticket for your boyfriend. 

Is it serious--like, you really like him? Harry’d asked on the phone like it was any of his business. 

Super serious, you’d said, as if alliteration had your back. He might be the one. 

So he tagged along, given a fair warning at your parents’ house that morning that he wasn’t allowed to take the piss or give Harry an ounce of shit--after all, Charlie wasn’t the biggest fan of boy bands. He’d made that clear the minute he found out that your heart held a special place for the five-piece group. 

There was commotion from the other side of the room--people stirring when a door opened, Jessie stood from the couch. 

His hair was long--longer than the last time you’d seen him, part of it pulled up on top in an elastic as he locked eyes with Jake. A black silk shirt, unbuttoned low enough to see a bit too much of his chest--especially if you were running with the whole no feelings whatsoever idea. 

“Hey man,” he pulled Adam in for a hug, both their hands patting the other on the back before releasing Harry to greet the rest of you. He made his rounds, finding you and Charlie last. One hand in his pocket before sticking out the right one for him to shake. “Nice to meet you,” he said. “M’Harry.”

“Charlie,” he nodded. “Thanks for having us.”

He brought his eyes to you, lips curled into a small smirk, dimpled cheeks. “Smalls,” he opened his arms, letting you get a good whiff of whatever cologne he now wore. 

“How was the drive down?”

“Terribly long,” Jessie complained, her shoulders slumping. “Why couldn’t we come to Manchester?”

“Because--I told you--this is the better show to come to. Everyone brings friends in London. Better after parties, too,” he let an arm snake around Jessie’s shoulders, smiling down at her with raised brows. 

“Like--with famous people?”

“If you’re lucky--heard Ed Sheeran might come say hello at some point. David Beckham, too.”

“Fine,” Jessie said quickly, not missing a beat. “That would be cool.”

“Always so composed, Jess,” Jake teased. 

Harry’s assistant--he had his own now, not just one he shared with the other boys--offered cocktails, something to hold in hand while you made smalltalk with the friends of the other boys. The kids who grew up next door to Niall, Louis’ siblings and Liam’s best friend from college. 

It was nice to be in a room with other people who knew what it felt like to be left behind. Maybe they didn’t all label it like that, but you knew that they understood what it was like to wonder about the next time you’d see your friend. 

You reached for another drink the second Harry got you alone, a question about how you met Charlie. 

“Lived on my floor during my first year. We were friends for a while--or, in the same friend group, I guess.”

He nodded, he elbow resting on top of a water cooler he made a face before letting words slip from between his lips slowly. “He seems...nice.”

“What?” You laughed, “what is it? How could you not like him when you’ve spoken like ten words to him all night?” 

“I never said that!” He smiled, raising a hand in the air in defense. “Just--dunno--hope he’s not a tosser.”

You let out a small laugh, a space filler while you tried to gather your thoughts, or rather, your emotions. The idea that Harry cared about who you dated sent a spark through your system, but the rationalizing that soon kicked in--it’s because you’re friends, he’s just being nice--seemed to put out whatever fire had been momentarily ignited. 

After a while he was pulled away by someone whose job it was to manage his time--warm ups in another room and maybe one last puff of hairspray. You were left with the others to consume more alcohol, eventually led to your seats by men in bright yellow shirts with flashlights.

Charlie was entertained enough--he laughed with Jake and Adam and clapped for the opening act. He made a face at the screams when the lights went down again, but even Jessie typically pulled something similar. 

Ten songs, three more drinks, and a small bladder eventually had you wandering the corridors alone, tracing your way back to the room with the oriental rug and comfy couches. When you found the peaceful quiet of bottled waters and granola bars on the counter, you found yourself taking your time--staring at yourself in the mirror when you washed your hands. 

“Hi,” Bryn’s voice sounded from behind you. “Y’alright?”

“Yeah,” you said, a solemn nod. “Just--kind of weird, you know, to have them in the same place.”

She hummed, coming to rest a head on your shoulders. “I figured.”

“I really like him, you know?”

“Harry?”

“Charlie!” You rolled your eyes, but a piece of you knew that Bryn’s words weren’t false. You turned around to lean against the counter. “He’s great--he’s funny. I just--I dunno. I hope at some point I stop wondering about the what ifs.”

There were tears in your eyes--a small enough amount that you could claim it was an eyelash or a yawn, but with Bryn, you didn’t feel the need to. “You will,” she reassured. 

“And besides--s’a pretty good way to make them both jealous. Bring your new boyfriend to the concert of your friend who’s a rockstar? If Harry has half a mind, it’ll make both of them pretty antsy.”

You laughed, unsure of if inspiring jealousy was what you were going for. If anything, at this point, you wanted peace. Maybe things with Harry would never happen--after four years, it was safe to say that he’d moved on from your small town. Maybe another four years and you’d never see him again, save for tabloid covers in Sainsbury’s. 

“What’s up?” Jessie asked, leaning against the door from the greenroom. The bass line thumped through the cement wall--you were sure your eyeliner was smudged. 

“Just realizing she’s still not over Harry,” Bryn said quickly, no emotion in her words--as if it was as simple as discussing the weather. 

“Bryn!”

“Y/N,” Jessie seemed to laugh a little, coming over to brush your hair with her fingers. “Charlie’s great--he’s funny and he’s handsome and he’s--”

“Not Harry,” Bryn said, a shrug of her shoulders when you looked up at her with narrowed eyes.

“He’s great though, she’s right,” you said, enough conviction to convince yourself that you actually believed it. “Who cares if he’s not the one--he can be fun for now, yeah?”

“Yeah,” they said.

Locked arms when you went back to your seats, wristbands granting you access to the floor with ease. When you found Charlie you let him wrap his arms around you, hoping that one day, he’d be enough to erase the memories of the boy on stage. 

**

“Thank god you’re here,” you greeted Alyssa right in front of the lift, voice low enough so the others couldn’t hear you. 

She shrugged off her jacket and made a face. “That bad?”

“Hi Lyss,” Harry’s voice echoed over Bryn’s laughter--they all turned their attention towards your roommate as she smoothed out her blouse. 

“Hi,” she said. “Nice to finally meet you all!”

“Welcome, welcome,” Jessie laughed. “Many a FaceTime call!”

Harry seemed to watch in silence as you took your place back on the couch--Alyssa settling onto the carpet before looking up at him, a closed lip smile was the only interaction between the two. 

It didn’t feel as bad as you thought it would--or maybe it was the glass of wine that Bryn poured you an hour later. That paired with the laughter that laced itself through conversation left your heartbeat steady, easily ignoring the fact that Harry’s eyes would linger a second too long every time you spoke. 

Jake went off to bed first--claiming dramatically that his body really thought the sun should be rising. Adam made him promise to construct a sturdy enough pillow wall--Bryn once again pointed out their subtle homophobia with a raise of her wine glass. Twats, she said, once Adam left the room. 

But she was next to fall, slumping down the hallway while Jessie sang along to whatever song Alyssa played from her phone. So once you’d decided it was time to head out, Jessie disappeared into a dark bedroom and Alyssa used the toilet--leaving you to trail behind Harry as you brought tea cups and wine glasses back to the sink. 

“I hope it’s okay that they’re here.”

“Them?” You threw a thumb over your shoulder--reality setting in when you realized you’d yet to actually communicate with him about the birthday surprise. Anger fought its way up your throat. “S’fine--they’re my best friends.”

“Yeah,” he said, the next words came lazily out of his mouth like an afterthought. “Mine too.”

Back to the living room to get your coat, pulling it over your shoulders as if he hadn’t followed behind you, watching quietly when you scooped your hair out from the jacket. 

“Maybe we can talk in a few days. I know they’re here, but, you didn’t even hear me out.”

“Hear you out? You were seeing two girls at once and you want me to hear you out?”

The door to the loo shut--Alyssa appeared in the hallway but faltered when both you and Harry took a step back from each other.

“Relax,” she said, her eyes wide for a second as she came to meet you near the door. “S’just me. I know you broke up.”

You rolled your eyes at that--Harry’s expression was calm. “I’ll see you in the morning?” His voice was hopeful--his eyes watched yours for any sign of emotion. 

“Maybe--Jessie wants to do Times Square so I doubt you can come. And besides, we still need to minimize the amount we’re seen together. If people see you with them and then me with them they’ll start to put things together before--you know.”

“Before what?”

“Before I can figure out the story and telling Whitney, alright? If we have to be sneaky about this so people don’t know that I’ve known you forever--I vote that you’re the one to hide.”

His head tilted to the side, as if you’d started speaking a foreign language. “Hide?” 

Alyssa slung her purse over her shoulder. 

“Yes, hide. You can hang out with us but you’re on your own for making sure you don’t draw attention to us. This is my birthday gift, yeah?”

“Yeah,” he nodded, a sigh from between his lips when he looked to Alyssa. “Thanks for coming.”

She offered an awkward smile--you wondered what she’d say to him if you weren’t there, how they’d interact just the two of them.

“See ya,” you tugged Alyssa by the coat sleeve into the lift. You pressed a button and shut the door between you, welcoming the bitter air on the sidewalk. Quiet on the walk home--you would have taken the subway or called a car, but Alyssa probably knew you needed the silence.

A direct message on twitter that night when you climbed into bed. You didn’t even know Pat--his name sounded familiar and you trusted that he had to be decent at his job if Whitney had worked with him, but when you agreed to meet him for coffee next week, you wondered what it would feel like to love someone that wasn’t Harry. 

You hoped one day you’d know. 

**

The neon glow of Times Square was much more impressive at night, so the five of you stood in the center of a cement island, taxis and buses honking beside you as Jessie and Adam stared up with open mouths. 

“S’brighter than I imagined,” Jake said, pulling the hood of his jacket up over his ears. “So much electricity.”

“S’beautiful,” Jessie cooed, the reflection of the lights bounced off her irises. When she turned to look at you, she wrapped an arm around yours. “Thanks for taking us.”

“My pleasure,” you laughed. “You come less and less to touristy things when you live here. S’like how we stopped doing the Eye or riding the double deckers.”

“Right,” Bryn laughed, a shopping bag in her right hand. “Or how we wouldn’t let Jake take any more pictures with the guards at Buckingham Palace.”

“They’re funny,” he defended, shooting Bryn a look of anger before resting an arm on her shoulders. 

Adam looked around the group of you, a smile on his face when his eyes landed on yours. “Glad we’re here, Smalls.”

“Yeah,” Jessie said. “I can see why you like it so much.”

“Can see why you don’t want to come home,” Bryn added, another sweeping gaze of the billboards above. She counted the colors, pinks, blues, greens, yellows, reds. A cup of coffee sitting on the red chairs scattered about, laughing at costumes and watching the people who’d pass by. 

After a good hour and a half you navigated over to Hell’s Kitchen, walking through side streets to find the restaurant that Harry had chosen. 

Don’t see why he gets to choose, s’my birthday dinner, you complained as your boots shuffled along the sidewalk. 

He’s paying, Bryn reminded. That’s why. 

You were sat in a back room, wine was poured before Harry appeared in the doorway, shrugging out of his jacket before placing it on the seat across from you. 

“Sorry,” he said, “had a meeting. Happy birthday.”

“S’not my birthday yet,” you sipped at the Cabernet that’d been offered, setting it on the table before giving him a challenging glare. 

“S’your birthday dinner, though. A day and a half early, if you can forgive me,” a hand to his heart before Bryn raised a glass. 

“Here’s to Y/N--kicking ass in New York City and carving out an amazing career for herself.”

“You’re probably the coolest person who lives in New York, Smalls,” Jake lifted his glass and let it hit yours, a scowl came across Harry’s face as he held his wine in the air. 

“Was I even up for consideration?” He asked, a playful frown on his face. 

Jake tilted his head. “Of coolest people who live in New York?” 

You rolled your eyes--now wasn’t the time for his sensitivity. “M’the one who actually lives here,  Harry.”

“Is the rent I pay not enough to convince you that I live here too?”

“Not when you jet set off to LA or London for a week just because you feel like it.”

“So business travel? That automatically disqualifies someone from considering themselves a resident just because they travel for business? Probably disqualifies half the population then.”

Adam tensed beside you, an awkward sip of his cocktail when he looked at Jessie to say something.

“What type of visa do you have?” You asked, leaning forward to rest your elbows on the table. 

“What? I don’t know--my manager handles that for me.”

“I have an H1B, extendable to six years,” you said matter-of-factly. Jessie’s eyes were wide as she sucked some sangria through a straw. 

“Alright,” Bryn tried to hold up a hand, unable to steer you down the right path. 

“Well I don’t think the American government is going to kick me out any time soon.”

“They will if you lie to them,” you narrowed your eyes, a bit too much emotion in your voice. 

“Do you need us to leave?” Bryn’s voice was quiet but snarky, Harry’s head snapped over to her and he picked up his wine, leaning back in his chair. 

“No,” you both said at the same time--but you pushed back from the table and cleared your throat. “I’m using the loo.”

You heard Jessie say something about going after you, Harry’s voice stopped her, I’ll go. 

You walked straight into the single bathroom in the back, shoes clicking on the shiny floor. A waterfall sink and polished copper faucet reminded you of the caliber of restaurant this was. Too fancy of a bathroom to cry in. 

There was a knock on the door. “Let me in, Y/N, let me talk to you.”

You opened the door quickly, pushing your head through the crack to see him waiting in the dimly lit hallway. “No--I’m not doing this here.”

“You don’t want to do it anywhere, apparently.”

“Exactly,” you went to shut the door, his hand reached up to stop you from shutting it, fingers gripped around the oak. 

“Two minutes,” he said. “Just give me two minutes to explain something to you.”

You let out a sigh, hoping to calm your pulse before you pulled open the door and let him take two steps inside. He shut it behind him. 

“Go.”

“I just--I was seeing her, casually, yes. But the only reason I saw her after we got back here was to say I couldn’t see her again. I told her it was done.” 

You pushed out your lips in thought, a head tilt to show him you meant business. “Did you sleep with her?”

“No.”

“Did you talk to her all the time?”

“No, Y/N. We had dinner and hung out with some friends and sure we kind of hooked up but we didn’t have sex.”

“Did she keep a deodorant in your bathroom?”

“What? No,” he laughed, a step towards you, hand on your arm. “I saw her maybe five times--I don’t know, it wasn’t--it wasn’t anything serious.” A pause, shifted weight on his feet. 

“We’re not--we can’t do this Harry,” you said, kicking a boot against the black marble floor. “This never should have happened.”

“How do you figure that?”

“Because it would have worked by now if it was supposed to! It would have happened a long time ago! I was in love with you. I waited for you to come home and I hoped that one day you’d love me back. But it’s too late. I was here living my life on my own and you don’t get to just pop in and out whenever you please.”

He watched you, almost as if you’d laugh and say you were only kidding. Like a simple smile or a joke could take all of it back, wash it clean, and restart. 

“So what, then?”

“So what? So nothing. I shouldn’t have slept with you--it was...unprofessional.”

His chest deflated, a huff of air through his lips when he scratched at the back of his neck, tired and confused. The door swung open and Jake stood, blond quiff of hair reflecting the overhead light, eyes glancing between the two of you. 

“You’re lucky I fought Jessie off to come back here because they’re all bloody suspicious. So if you’re still keen on keeping this a secret,” a finger waved in the air between you, “you should get back to the table.”

“You know?” Harry’s head swiveled around, eyes locking on Jake’s. 

“Of course I know--I’m surprised they’re all daft enough to not know, really.”

You rolled your eyes, giving Harry a shove out of your way before passing between them, wiping beneath your eyes to hide any evidence of emotion. Bryn’s posture straightened when you got back to the table, her voice a quiet whisper so Harry wouldn’t hear.

“Are you alright? What on earth is going on between you two?”

“Nothing,” you said, pulling your napkin back onto your lap. “He’s just a twat--you know how it is.”

Her eyes narrowed, Jessie listened--uncharacteristically quiet. Adam typed away on his phone, as if the entire scene hadn’t just come to close with Harry and Jake back at the table, slumping in their chairs when the server asked if another round was needed. 

“Yes,” all six of you said in unison.

come talk to me about tytl

read the other parts here

AN: again this is kind of short but I wanted to update for y’all!!!! 

tag list:  @clorenafila @ainsleesolareclipse @castawaycths @harryspirate @wanderlustiing @ursamajor603 @thurhomish @omgsharry  @stepping-into-the-light @rachkon @jdcharliewhiskey @sad-little-asshole  @shawnsblue  @gendryia @g0bl1nqueen  @laula843  @flooome  @a-woman-without-a-plan@awomanindeniall  @shaw-nm @staceystoleyourheart @ohprettylittlemind-deactivated2 @anssu-amry @my-fandomful-life2 @stylesfantasy @bookingbee  @mleestiles  @haute-romance-quotidienne  @craic-head-horan @talk-british-2-me-britbritharry @at-least-im-1 @paigemck00 @rawmeharry @pinkpolaroidgirl @blackxxmagicc @sksspotkitty @nearbyou @kalesouffle @sunnflowerchild @lmk12310​ @sing-me-a-song-harry @afterstylesmadeit @myhat @caritocp @liquor-and-intellect

[monochromemedic]

This isn’t finished and probably wont be but i wrote alot so

Benny Benny Benny Benny BENNY I shifted the revolver in my hands, moving it from hand to hand as I moved with Arcade and Boone, trying to track down Benny after I tried to let him go.   Forgive and forget.  Be the bigger man. Turns out Benny was a lying asshole and sent in his cronies as he left for god knows where. And when raided the Legion I saw him tied up with the asshole in charge himself but when I went to get him after it all he disappeared.   It was becoming a trend.  I see him, Benny fucks me over and runs away. When I saw him in the Tops I noticed how he talked, how he walked, how hot he thought his shit was when actually he seemed like a dork. I joked about it with my friends, trying to cover the anger and frustration I felt but we all knew how upsetting it was.  But we always seemed to find his trail.  Then again it wasn’t that hard since he constantly kept his checkered suit on. And now we were following the trail again. After everything in Vegas... after Hoover dam, we still hadn’t found him. And so I took my two best friends, and traveled with the Followers of the Apocalypse, abandoning them for a moment at the sound of a smooth talker in a checkered suit.  Usually Arcade would stay with the Followers, trying to guide the group or halt them until I came back. Or guiding them to where I heard Benny had went. After all, America was fucked and they could use help everywhere, so it didn’t take much persuasion. Meanwhile Boone and I ran ahead, the urge of vengeance driving us both. Why Boone was so pissed off as well was weird, since it was my problem, but it seemed like he was just as eager to put a bullet in his head as I was. But this time... the trail was strong. Arcade was getting sick of us chasing ghosts and wanted to end it as much as I did and followed us. Benny was hold up at some... pleasure house. One for real fancy rich folks and had been there for a while under some alias but slipped up one too many times with saying his real name.  It was enough for me but when we learned that he kept favoring one girl in the club and took up a more permanent room we knew it was our chance. He’d be there for a while or at least planned to. We needed to move when he was settling down The three of us stood in the lobby of the hotel, women and men walking by in seductive get ups, some lounging on couches and beds beckoning a few of us to join in for the right amount of caps. I walked to one of the men who, rolled his hips seductively to the low music playing from a jukebox not too far away, a smile on his lips. “Hey baby, you looking to relieve some tension? Those boys of yours not fufilling you’re needs? I got you... Name’s Johnny Flood. You wanna know how I got that last name?” I cleared my throat and stared at Johnny, concealing the small revolver in a pocket. “Not today, but I do need you for some information.” “Hmm and what would man like me know?” I looked over Arcade who stepped up beside me. “Do you happen to know a man of Danny that’s been staying here recently? Black hair, strange way of talking like he’s trying too hard to be cool. Owns a black and white checkered suit?” “I’m sorry but that’s the Temptation Palace’s secret, we can’t give out that kinda information to just anyone.” Johnny teased “What if we paid you?” “Well... maybe i’d be willing to let my lips squeak out a bit of info...”  I pushed my hands in my pocket and held out a bag of caps to Johnny, shaking it slightly so he knew that it was legit. “200 caps. Just for anything you know about the guy.” Johnny’s eyes widened as he took the bag and opened it, smiling at the sight of the shiny caps within before pocketing it and begging us with a finger to follow him. He lead us to a spare bedroom, closing the door behind us as he sighed and sat on the bed, his flirtatious facade fading a bit. “I do know a bit about him. Not alot but, i’ll be an open book about what i know baby. What’s he to you? He’s your husband?” I shook my head and eyed the room, checking to see if it was really secure. Boone was already doing the same, so I knew that he’d keep a look out while me and Arcade chatted him up. “No... he might as well be with the amount of times he’s fucked me.” “Can we not say that joke in front of strangers?” Arcade interjected before I continued. “He did some bad things to some people, and I just wanna talk and settle the score. I don’t want him hurting anyone else.” Johnny face fell a little, rubbing his face nervously. “Damn... well... alright. What I know about Danny is that he’s been hanging around Peaches way too much.  I mean I was happy for her that she was getting a steady job but now that your saying that I guess I have noticed he’s a bit weird. I wear i’ve seen a gun on him but I always thought it was just for a little protection but It’s kinda big.” “Is it engraved?” “I couldn’t tell you, I never got that close. Just sort of seen the handle peaking out of the hem of his pants at times so I just assumed it was a gun in his pants and not his dick.” I looked at Arcade who, gave a tired sigh before continuing “Is he still here?” “Danny? I think so. Then again it’s hard to tell who comes and goes when you’re in and out of bedrooms. But he does seem to have a little room to himself that he rented. Only hardcore costumers do that so, I’d assume he planned on staying for a while longer. If you wanna talk to him he’s on the 3rd floor, I think it’s room 307. You might need a key to get in if you wanna... do anything.” I gave a slight nod and headed for the door, giving Johnny thanks for his information. Boone already had the door open. He got the information he needed. “W-wait.” I turned to Johnny, who became a bit nervous. “Listen I don’t know what you’re gonna do to him, probably nothing good but... this place is good and Peaches is a good girl. Make sure she’s safe and... if your gonna ... kill him then try not to be so loud. The Temptation Palace is suppose to be a place for people to relax and murder is one thing that turns alot of people off.” Boone only gave a quick, “No promises” as he left as I gave a more helpful answer. “I’ll keep her safe. And believe me, i’ll be as quiet as a mouse.” I stood outside with Arcade and Boone at my side as we kept silent, walking up the stairs to the third floor with one mission in mind. Even though we didn’t speak, we know we didn’t have to. There wasn’t anything to talk about that wasn’t what we already from talking about the situation night after night. I felt the goosebumps begin to form on my skin, and a shutter of adrenaline fall over me.  I wonder if he could feel it too. The dread... the anticipation. When we got to the door it was locked but a few tries with a bobby pin caused it to open, a small creak from the hinges as we entered the dimly lit room, seeing Benny in his underwear, drinking at a small bar full of liquor. I could feel the scar begin to ache at the irony of it all, how similar this all was seeming. Just like the first time. “You’re like a damn cockroach you know that babes? I keep on stomping you out but you just keep on coming back no matter where I head.” Benny’s voice seemed to echo in the darkness. I raised my pistol at him, anger filling my mind and my body. All I wanted was to pull the trigger and end it, but I forced myself to stop. I still had questions. I always did. “Hard to hide when you never change your look from that dumb suit you wear. You really gotta try harder, it’s like you wanna be found.” “Maybe I do... maybe I do.” He took a swig of what was left in his glass and began to poor a half empty bottle of whiskey to refill it, before turning to me. As soon as he turned Boone and Arcade raised their concealed guns as well, causing Benny to chuckle. “Damn baby, you  got that whole gang back together. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t flattered about the reunion but you caught me in my birthday suit.  I wouldn’t go and try to chum me up or else I might just start turning red.” “Jesus can you shut up already. Jenna take the shot and just end this.” Arcade barked out “We have him, we can’t let him get away again, just end it.” “Arcade stay out of this.” Boone growled back, “You don’t know what it’s like?” “What wanting to shoot an idiot? Because if that’s the case then you’re mistaken because I want to do that every day.” Benny sipped his whiskey and laughed, placing the glass on the counter with a smarmy grin on his face “I always love to see two broads going at each others throats... all just for me, i’m flattered.” “Shut up Benny” They both barked back, turns fixating back at the man I walked forward, inching closer and closer to Benny’s body until I was just a foot away. He looked a little weathered but otherwise the same.  It seemed that running away from the constant mob of people chasing him was taking it’s toll. Good. “Why? I gave you a chance back at the Tops and you threw me under the bus. You think I wouldn’t be good for it? You never thought that sometimes people can be the bigger man and forgive? Now look at you. Alone, no casino, no chip, in a random sleezy hotel miles from home because you couldn’t accept the fact that I wanted to give you a second chance. Now i’m all out of chances Benny and i’m pretty fucking pissed.” “No one gets out scott free, not you, not me, not no body. I couldn’t take the chance of a backstab when I had the cards in play. It was just precaution, nothing more. You think too hard, i’m surprised that you haven’t broken that head of yours with all that thinking you must be doing, thinking there’s some bigger meaning. It’s a dog eat dog world, and sometimes killing friends is the best way to insure the dog’s don’t bite the hand that feeds, you dig? You’d probably do the same if you were where I was sittin.” “‘Maybe Khan’s kill people, but I ain’t a fink, you dig’“ “Dirty. Using my own words against me like that.” Benny said, a bit of venom in his tone. “So now what. You gotta pull the trigger and put me in a shallow grave? Cause you better do it quick or i’ll finish this entire bottle of whiskey while you’re mulling it over again.” My finger that hovered over the trigger began to quiver as I pushed it down against the smooth metal of the gun. Just a simple reaction, a little push and it’d be over. Benny would be dead in front of me. So why the fuck couldn’t I do it? I tried to force my finger down but the more I tried the more my hand tensed up, the harder I felt it getting to swallow. He ruined my life, my memory, everything who I was before the bullet.  He deserved it right?  “Come on doll face, just do it.” He urged, making me try again only to no avail. I took a step back, my head aching and my eyes beginning to tear up. I couldn’t speak, it all felt so wrong, so... bad. I was so tired of chasing but so tired of the blood constantly on my hands.  “Jenna...” I turned to Boone, a look of concern on his face. “C...craig.” I whimpered back, shame overcoming me as Benny gave a somber exhale. “Can’t even do it. That’s sad pussycat, real sad.” Benny muttered, starting to get up only for Arcade to jump forward and hit him with handle of the gun, causing him to yelp and fall against the ground, a stream of blood coming from his temple. “Stay down or I will put a bullet right between your eyes.” Arcade growled, keys focused on Benny. He gave a cautionary glance at me before speaking. “We can’t play this game forever Jenna. You either have to be the one to do it, or we will. I don’t know how it’s difficult for you since this guy is a major pain but... it needs to be done. It’ll be better for everyone if we just bookend this.” “You can’t just take that away from her. You either let her do it, or let her decide who gets to.” Boone told Arcade

[shooter-nobunagun]

Quarantine UST 6

//Suggestive content

“Um, s-sorry about this...”

“Nah, it’s fine. Though, maybe I should be askin’ if you’re alright with this...yer quakin’ like a leaf.”

“A-Ah, uh...”

“...”

The girl shook her head. No, this was her idea in the first place; it would be rude to back out now...especially after all the trouble they went through to acquire the supplies. “No, I’m...sure. So, please do your best, Adam-san...I’m in your hands, literally...”

Adam was not sure if the sniper was aware of her word choice and the innuendo it carried, but nodded solemnly anyway. Armed with a comb, hairdryer and specifically, a pair of sharp salon scissors, he tied a sheet around her neck and spritzed the girl’s unruly bob down, prepping it for a trim.

After two weeks of trying and failing to clip her hair back, the sniper had given up and then sheepishly asked him to help her trim it. At first he was confused as to why she didn’t ask Jess, considering the woman was a model, but one look at those round maroons and he agreed before he knew it. Though Adam didn’t have much experience with hair styling in general, he had trimmed his own hair before on occasion, and reasoned if she just wanted it shorter, then he’d probably do all right.

Probably.

“Eeek! Th-That was a bit too close of a shave,” the sniper squeaked as the scissors chopped off a good chunk of her bangs. “...You didn’t cut too much off, did you? My forehead feels more bare than normal...”

“Uuuuhh...n, no, you look...fine.” Adam tried to make his voice sound neutral, but one look at the sniper’s face and he instantly knew he’d fucked up. ‘God fucking dammit...real smooth, Adam.’

“...Well, worst case I guess it’ll eventually grow back.” Sio muttered, now seriously wondering if it had been a good idea to ask the guy who housed the soul of a throat-slasher to help cut her hair. ‘But you’d think a guy who’s so skilled with a blade on the field would be dexterous enough for hair cutting...’

“Hey now, you’re the one who asked, squirt; I’m doin’ you a favor here...cut me some slack,” Adam muttered, still smarting over his mishap. “I ain’t a hair stylist or anything, surprised you asked me instead of someone like Jess...”

“W, Well, th-that just shows how much I trust you!” Sio blurted out, before realizing what exactly she’d just said. ‘Oh crap! I hope he doesn’t read too much into that...’

Of course, Adam read exactly as much as Sio feared he would. “...I’ll try. Just...don’t expect anythin’ fancy.” He had to pretend to busy himself with sweeping away the hair to stop himself from shaking. Did she really say she trusted him? ‘What the hell does that mean...well, I guess it means at least she doesn’t think I’m a total arse anymore...’ Thankfully, the rest of her hair was easier to contend with, though it was hard not to get distracted as he hovered in front of her face, doing his best to make sure the ends were even and not ragged.

‘Oh boy, he’s standing so close...! I can feel his breath on my face...and that nice scent...’ The sniper gulped nervously as Adam pulled her ends and squinted, trying to determine if it was level or not. ‘I wonder if that scent is from his shampoo, or laundry or...maybe he wears cologne?’ 

He didn’t seem like the type though, upon further thought. Or maybe that’s his natural scent, a naughty voice in her head joked, and it took everything fiber of her being to not just jump out of the chair (lest she get another too-close shave). She prayed her face wouldn’t turn red as Adam moved to the back, now cutting off another inch or so.

“Hmm, is this good? You said you like it just below your ears, yeh?”

“H-Huh? Oh yeah, that’s good. I just want it away from my neck...it gets so itchy otherwise.”

“Right. Got it.” Brushing away the loose hair, he switched to the scissors. “Gonna see if I can give you some more layers back here...otherwise, it’ll look bad within a week...”

Sio sat nervously as she watched bits and pieces of brown hair litter the yard. The sun was shining; not too high yet, but she hoped they would finish before it got overhead. The days were definitely warming up, and more than once Adam came downstairs complaining of how stuffy the attic was, to which Mahesh could only reply that he’d made the choice to take it.

“I did give you a choice when we first arrived, and you were the one who said you’d take it, so...”

Something soft brushed against the nape of her neck and she squealed. “Th-That tickles...!”

“Sorry; anyway, think I’m almost done. Just need to blow off the stray hair and comb it back out...” Adam blew off the rest of the hair, before combing everything neatly back into place and then gave a final nod of approval. “Alright, I think that’s good. Hm, not too shabby, if I do say so myself.” He handed the girl a small mirror. “So, verdict?”

“Oh...” Sio studied her own reflection, turning this way and that. Aside from her bangs (they were definitely too short, she sighed), it wasn’t half bad. He’d actually managed to give her bob a bit of an angle, so it was slightly more stylish than the flat cut she usually had. “Hey, not bad. I like it...well, the bangs are too short, but...”

“I’m sorry, alright? It’s a bit hard to get it right when you’re squirming around so much...” Adam grumbled. “Next time, when I say don’t move, I mean it.”

“Well, it’s not my fault my neck got itchy,” Sio stuck her tongue out briefly, but Adam knew she was just joking. “But still, thanks...finally, I have short hair again! It feel so nice...” She brushed the back briefly, enjoying the puffy strands. “Heh, I think your hair is now longer than mine,” she teased, glancing at his silvery-white strands that now just touched his shoulders. “Sure you don’t want a trim as well?”

“No thanks; I’ve seen what you can do with a knife, I’d rather not risk it,” he replied flatly, cleaning up the supplies. 

“Hey! Jerk,” she muttered, but he had a point. If it’d been up to her, she’d probably just have gotten the kitchen scissors and chopped it all off in one go. When she announced her original plan to Adam, he stared at her for a few seconds with thinly concealed horror, before managing to convince the girl that it would be worth it to get a pair of scissors just for this.

As Adam returned everything inside and swept up the stray hairs, something brushed against the back of his neck .”What th—” he jumped in surprise, before realizing the sniper was combing his hair.

“Your hair sure is getting long, though. Maybe you should tie it back; after all, don’t you know your vision’s gonna go bad like that?” She scolded, fingers running through his bangs that were, admittedly, starting to become a nuisance.

“...That’s just an urban legend,” he murmured, trying not to blush. Her fingers were delicate and small as they touched his skin, then through his scalp as she smoothed everything out with a brush. He nearly moaned as they brushed down his neck, but he bit it back just in time. “If you’re so concerned, then why don’t you tie it up for me?”

“W, Well then, I might just do that!” With a steely glint in her eye, the sniper returned with a hair tie and comb, now determined to make this work. “Seriously, how do you even see half the time?” She raised an eyebrow as she pulled his bangs back. “Oh hey look, you do have two eyes! Who’d’ve thought.”

“Right. Sure.” He rolled his eyes, trying to maintain his cool. Her cute little face filled his vision as she squinted those maroons in concentration, pulling his hair back. It felt nice to have someone brushing his hair, and even moreso, when she ran her fingers through it...he shivered slightly as the sniper started to rub his head a little more...

“Uhn...wh-what are you—”

“Is it nice? I read that head massages are a great way to relax...and it’s super easy to do,” she cooed into his ear, and that definitely sent a shiver down his spine. Was it just him, or did she suddenly seem more...mature than usual? This couldn’t possibly be happening, could it? The Sio he knew was shy, awkward and bumbling; the only time she ever showed any dominance was during battle...

‘Wait a minute, don’t tell me she’s being influenced by her e-gene even when we’re not in battle?’ 

Adam didn’t have anymore time to ruminate on that, however, as Sio massaged his scalp in earnest. His eyes fluttered shut, but he still had enough control left to not just start moaning, though it did feel really good. Just before he passed out though, she pulled his strands back a final time, tying it into a low ponytail just around the nape of his neck.

“There, all done. Huh, you look kinda different with your hair all back like this...but, not bad. It’s...different, but I like it.” She smiled as she handed him the mirror this time. “You should grow it out really long!”

“Heh, well at the rate things are going, who knows...” He glanced at the reflection. It did make him look different, but at least he didn’t look like one of those hipster ‘bros’. Also, it was true that he could see a lot better now, as much as he didn’t want to admit it. “Thanks, Ogura.”

“Mmn hmm. Consider things between us even now.”

Both Jess and Mahesh commented on their new styles as they went back in, although Sio was still very self-conscious of her now-bare forehead.

“I don’t think it’s that bad, dear. Besides, you have a cute forehead! Just think of it as not needing a trim for a while.” Jess consoled.

“Trying for a new style, Adam? I think it suits you. Maybe you should try the ‘man bun’ next, I hear those are in,” the Indian teased, getting out of the way before their leader could throw something else at him.

“Do you two wanna get your hair trimmed?” Sio offered, but they shook their heads. Jess already had long braids, and Mahesh, well, he apparently couldn’t care less how disheveled he looked.

“It’s not like we’ll be going anywhere or seeing anyone, aside from just...well, us. I don’t see the point, frankly.” The group was lounging about the living room, most still in their sleepwear; Mahesh still didn’t wear a shirt, but at least he threw on a jacket, and Jess had graduated from knickers to short shorts. Sio was making herself some toast and jam while Adam was busy with his Final Fantasy VII file, everybody else watching in great amusement or else shouting at the screen.

“Dodge dodge! No wait, do a counterstance!”

“Whoa, that’s a lot of damage...”

“That’s a lot going on at once on the screen.”

“Oy, would you all shut yer traps?! You’re not helping,” Adam groused, narrowly avoiding a game over with a phoenix down. “If you’re not going to be giving me useful advice, then can it!”

Sio giggled slightly to herself, taking in the scene before her as she ate her bread. ‘Even though it’s not the best of circumstances, it is nice to be able to spend time with everybody, like this.’ Back aboard the Logan, or even the Forrester, everyone mostly kept to themselves, except for perfunctory meetings or battle. To live an everyday existence with her teammates, and get to know them beyond their e-genes... Sio felt a warm glow within her, glad she got to experience this. 

At last Adam stopped for food, lunch consisting mostly of leftovers from the night before and whatever they had lying around. Sio slowly finished a packet of instant ramen with spam, as Adam made a smorgasbord out of leftover breakfast items.

“Y’know, if it weren’t for the fact that we’re kinda forced to be here and the circumstances, it feels a bit like uni,” Jess commented as the group sat around the table. “Though I can’t say I experienced much of ‘traditional’ university life.”

“Hn; yer romanticizin’ it too much,” Adam retorted. “Trust me, actual dorm life with a bunch of other strangers wasn’t exactly something I enjoyed. There’s a big difference between living in a giant dormitory versus a single house...”

Sio perked up at the conversation. ‘That’s right, Jess said Adam was just beginning college when he left for DOGOO...I wonder what his school life was like?’ The sniper herself hadn’t even begun to think about university, even before everything happened, and now she wasn’t sure if college was in her future. Not that she had an inkling of what she might study, anyway.

“Um, so what is it like, anyway? College?”

“Thinkin’ of applying after this is all over, squirt? Well, let me tell you it’s not all fun and games,” Adam warned as he finished off the rest of his plate. “Especially if you’re not used to taking care of yourself...”

“Th, that’s��are you implying something...” She met Adam’s eyes with a stare, which was returned in equal fervor. “A-Anyway, I doubt I’ll have to think about that for a while...who knows if I’ll even go back after all this.” Most of her classmates were already talking about their final senior year trip abroad, which, from the sound of things, might actually include San Francisco—once the pandemic was over, of course. “I’m not even sure what I’d major in, or where to go...”

“Well, it never hurts to think about your future after all this. With any luck, we’ll still be able to get on with our lives...eventually.” Mahesh commented breezily. “Who knows, maybe you’ll come out of this whole EIO thing with a better idea of what you actually want.”

Sio pondered those words over in her mind as everybody picked up their empty plates. ‘What I actually want...’ Well, for the immediate time being, it would be to get through this pandemic without dying. And maybe (hopefully?) figure out how to navigate her increasingly-complicated relationship with Adam. ‘Urg...I know I really shouldn’t be entertaining those thoughts, but still...I can’t help it if I feel this way. Is it really so wrong to like him?’

She climbed the stairs up, debating if she wanted to relax a bit before she hit the gym, or play games, or go for a walk. It was interesting to realize that, despite not really being able to go anywhere, she still had a fair amount of choices and autonomy within her daily life here. Even small things, such as deciding what to do for meals, or how to spend her free time, were things she never really considered back when every other second was spent fighting.

“Oh baby, can’t live without you baby, I’d give it up for you... You know I love you—”

“Huh? Where’s that sound coming from...” She cocked her ear up, realizing the sound was drifting through the attic door. “Oh, I guess Adam’s listening to music.” It was some low-key, jazzy R&B in English; she never would’ve guess Adam was into anything other than rock, but curiosity got the better of her, and before Sio knew it she was knocking on his door.

“Eh? What’s up, Ogura?” Adam looked at the girl in surprise, not expecting her to come knocking. “Need something?”

“Ah, uh, not really...I was, um, just...” She squirmed, hoping she didn’t sound too forward. “Just, I heard music coming from your room...a-and, I...was curious to what it was...”

Oh. “Ah, sorry about that...guess I should turn down the volume,” but Sio shook her head.

“N-No, I like it...er, well, from what I’ve been able to hear, anyway...a-and it’s not like you’re disrupting me or anything, just...” She shyly looked down at her feet, wondering what was the best way to invite herself in, if possible.

“...You, wanna come in?” The sniper looked up in surprise, face blushing a pink before she could control herself. “Since you’re curious about my taste in music and all,” he teased, but she simply nodded, and Adam stepped aside. “I’ll admit, I kinda messed up in choosing this room, ‘cause it’s hot as fuck when the sun comes in...but eh, whatever. I don’t feel like movin’ everything all over again...plus I doubt Mirza’ll be interested in switching, anyway.”

“Oh! I’m sorry to hear that...I mean, if it really bothers you, I’d be willing to trade rooms?” The sniper looked up with those round maroons, but Adam merely smiled and shook his head. 

“Nah, I’m just grousing. It’s fine, don’t worry about it, squirt.” He picked up the a jacket and pair of pants off the bed. “Sorry for the mess; wasn’t expecting a visitor.”

“A-Ah, s, sorry...” Though, just a quick glance around and Sio thought Adam must have very high standards for cleanliness. The bed was made, no dirty laundry piled anywhere, and the desk was neatly set up with a couple documents and a laptop, which was playing the music. ‘Seriously, if he stepped inside my room, he’d probably pass out first...’

“Well, make yourself at home; I’m just taking care of some stuff from DOGOO...” Adam muttered as he scanned the latest email from Saint-Germain, which contained details about an all-hands to discuss the Objects’ next potential moves. “Seriously, what the hell? They want to meet 10pm our time...”

Sio stood around nervously, unsure if she should just leave if he was going to be busy, until Adam caught sight of her just standing to the side. “Oh, feel free to sit on the bed or whatever; it’s fine by me.”

“O-Oh, okay...” She resisted the urge to just flop into it, but the moment she sat on the coverlet she could smell the scent that was very familiar by now. ‘Oh no...of course his bed is gonna smell like him...!’

“Anyway, MONKEY MAJIK’s playin’ right now, but if you wanna change the tunes, let me know.” Adam turned the volume down slightly. “You heard of them before? They’re actually founded by two Canadian brothers who went to Japan to teach English, but ended up starting a band.” As if to emphasize it, Adam changed the track to a Japanese/English one.

“Nanoni kokoro mitasa rezu Nakushita kakera sagashite Mitsukedasenai Dubai Paris Shanghai”

“Eh? Whoa, they’re so good...” The music wasn’t bad, either; it was definitely a departure from the stereotypical J-pop that she heard so often, or even the J-rock songs she liked to listen to. “Heh, it’s actually kind of fun to listen to, if you can understand both languages...” Smiling, Sio closed her eyes, simply enjoying the music.

“Dokoni ite mo I need your love Umi wo koete I’m giving you love Donna toki mo, soba ni iru yo Kore kara mo share my life with you...”

Sio blushed as she listened to the lyrics. ‘I’ll always be with you, and share my life with you. I wonder if Adam knows what the words mean...’ Actually, he most likely did; she knew Adam could speak and understand Japanese at a near-native level, which was impressive considering he’d only ever studied it in school. ‘Although, I guess I’m not half-bad with English, considering I never used it until now...’

As much as she enjoyed MONKEY MAJIK’s romantic, R&B tracks however, she was starting to become just a bit too self-conscious, as each track seemed to be more passionate than the last. “Er, um, A-Adam-san? Sorry to bother you...but, I was wondering if...if we could listen to something else?”

“Oh yeh, sure.” Adam swiveled around on his chair. “What’re you in the mood for? Alt-rock? Top 40? Pop?”

“Uh, I was wondering...you know that song that you played when we were doing VR? Beat Saber?” Adam looked confused as he searched for his memory, until he finally his mouth made an ‘o’. 

“Ah, you’re talking about Camellia then. Japanese EDM? Didn’t know you were into that...”

“Well, I don’t know about that, but it sounded really good...also, you sure like Japanese music, don’t you Adam? Are you one of those people who got into Japanese culture ‘cause of anime and games?”

At that comment however, the white-haired main spun around, a rather annoyed look on his face. “Alright look, I can see why you’d say that—and yeh, I’ll admit I first got into it ‘cause I watched a bunch of anime on the telly after school and I did study Japanese. But I am definitely not one of those waifu-worshipping Japanophiles who think it’s a paradise and can do no wrong. It’s a country like any other, just like the U.K. It’s cool and all, but it’s not perfect.” 

Sio nodded timidly, not wanting to upset him. “Of course, Adam-san...I’m, actually glad you think that, ‘cause as somebody who is from Japan...yeah, it’s definitely got some serious problems...”

“Sorry; I didn’t mean to badmouth your homeland like that...” Adam sighed and mentally berated himself for letting his mouth run, again. “Anyway, there’s several songs in the game apparently, but my favorite album is the first one, Crystallized.” 

“Rain of Amethyst...” Sio muttered to herself as she peeked at the track listing. “It sounds really pretty...” As the music chimed in though, she decided not only was the title pretty, but the song itself was beautiful. The delicate chimes mixed with piano, before the synthetic notes burst in; all accompanied by a heady, thumping bass track. It was quite different than what she usually listened to, or even heard in Japan. Not being one to frequent nightclubs or similar places that would feature this type of music, Sio found herself falling into a trance almost, concentrating on the echoing chimes and sounds that she never knew could exist.

Even though the songs barely had any lyrics worth mentioning, they were just as layered and nuanced, if not more so. All the different layers of sound, music, notes and beats combined seamlessly, the music’s flow never stopping, it seemed. Certain tracks made her feel like she was flying through space, or time, the way it washed over her. Notes flowed like water, occasionally interspersed with delicate piano or other crystal-like tones; then all of a sudden the music’s beat would kick up, sending a rush of brilliance through her ears.

‘Oh, it’s this song...!’ Finally the track Adam had been playing started; she recognized the gradual piano build-up, before the song dove headfirst like a rollercoaster into a seemingly-impossible combination of beats and notes. Closing her eyes, the sniper didn’t even realize herself sinking onto the bed, too caught up in trying to absorb the music as rapidly as it slipped her by. ‘It’s amazing...I never knew music could make you feel like this...’

“Well, that’s the album. Did you like it squirt?” The album finally ended and Adam turned around, only to find the sniper curled on her side on his bed, seemingly fast asleep. “Uh...squirt?” He looked at her slumbering visage, eyes closed and a peaceful expression on her face, and smiled to himself. 

“Heh, you’re really somethin’ else, Ogura.” Gently, so as to not disturb her, he pulled a light blanket over her, then quietly went downstairs. ------- What th...where am I? She was floating in a nebulous space, darkness all around but it wasn’t frightening at all. Beyond the horizon, a faint glow stretched into forever, her view lit with the glow of countless stars.

She looked down. Her body was nude, but she wasn’t embarrassed or cold. No, it was natural after all. It was perfectly normal. Making a wave-like motion, she discovered just a simple movement could propel her at what felt like light speed, and she struggled to stop herself from flying off into infinity.

Whoa! Slow down, get a hold of yourself... But it was like moving through molasses; each movement greatly exaggerated no matter how careful she was. In the end, she decided it was easier to go with the flow instead of fighting it. She shot forward like a rocket, marveling at the blurs of light that flew past her vision.

Suddenly she could see the Earth; only this time, there was a web crawling around, like a sinister shadow. Hey...what’s going on? And before she knew it the planet was sucking her in like a black hole, no matter how hard she tried to stop it. It was like being sucked into a whirlpool, a vast, endless depth of blue-black water (?) and though she didn’t know how, it felt like she’d become the planet itself, integrated with the very life force of Earth.

Wait...stop, what’s going on? Why am I like this? Am I trapped...? When can I get out? There was no answer, only an unsettled feeling that somehow never grew into a full panic. This can’t be real...no, I don’t believe it, it’s not real...!

“...Ah. Uhn...huh?” A low rumble of voices combined with the occasional clink of silverware greeted her as Sio opened her eyes, still bleary with sleep. “What th...that was one whacked-out dream.” She didn’t forget it like last time, but even then it made little sense. Floating in space, and then becoming part of...the planet? Even though she knew it was just a dream, probably influenced by the ethereal tones of the music she was listening to, it was still slightly disturbing. “Nnn...remind me to maybe not listen to music that gives me an out-of-body experience before bed...”

Still yawning, the sniper descended the stairs, realizing it was already past dinnertime. The skyline was a barely visible twilight now, and the smell of food made her stomach rumble. 

“Oh...sorry guys, I somehow overslept...”

“Sio! Don’t fret, we figured you’d probably want food eventually, so there’s plenty.” Jess got up and pulled a chair for the sniper, along with a bowl. “It’s curry tonight; Mahesh made it less spicy so we wouldn’t die.” 

“That was some kip you took, Ogura. You feelin’ alright?” Adam cast her a curious look as she piled her bowl high with fragrant basmati rice and the thick, creamy-orange chicken curry. “Also, nice bedhead...” Sio’s hand flew to her hair at his comment, frantically trying to smooth out the stubborn strands.

“No, I’m pretty sure I’m okay...though I wasn’t expecting to just pass out like that... I guess your bed is just too comfortable, Adam-san,” Sio said innocently, unaware of the weight her words carried. Adam choked on his tea, and Jess and Mahesh raised an eyebrow at each other. 

“...What? Is there something on my face? Why’s everyone looking at me?”

“...Nevermind, squirt.” Adam sighed and prayed the other two wouldn’t say anything else, though it was too late to try and deny that anything happened, even if it was all completely innocent in nature. 

“I did have a really weird dream though...it wasn’t exactly scary, but...well, it was just weird.” The sniper frowned, trying not to get pulled too deep into it. “Meh, oh well. Oh man, Mirza-san, this is soo good...I could eat two bowls of this...”

“Well, help yourself, there’s plenty. I’m definitely taking that as a compliment. Sure you’ll still be able to sleep tonight?”

Sio laughed sheepishly. One thing she never said no to was more sleep. “I think I’ll...manage.” Besides, if she needed to release some pent-up energy, there were definitely ways to do that, her brain suggested naughtily.

As she helped clean up the table, Jess and Mahesh now finally pitching in regularly as well, she noticed Adam was still at the table, quietly sipping his tea and seemingly lost in thought. “Hey, you...okay?”

“Hmm? Oh, it’s nothing. Sometimes you just wanna ruminate a bit...” He shrugged, reaching for a biscotti to dip into his tea. “Although, this means you missed today’s training, squirt...” Sio groaned dramatically, but Adam only laughed. “I’m just kidding, Ogura. I know you didn’t do it on purpose.”

“Then why do you keep reminding me,” she grumbled, lips formed into a pout. “Do you enjoy making my life miserable?”

“Hn. Depends on what you mean by that...”

“Jerk,” she muttered under her breath, but there wasn’t any real anger behind it. Truth be told, he was a lot better than say, the beginning of this quarantine. Perhaps living as normal people for once had a mollifying effect on everybody’s personalities? Given how stressful their lives were most of the time, it made sense that everybody’s real natures would come out, when they could relax and be themselves.

“...Is it wrong if I wish this could go on longer?”

He raised a white eyebrow at her. “You mean you actually enjoy voluntarily being imprisoned in this house?” She was about to retort when he laughed. “I know I know, I’m just teasin’ ya; sorry, but you are just a bit too easy sometimes...”

“Baka.” Then, before he knew it, she stole the latter half of his biscotti, causing the man to let out a cry. 

“Oy! Get your own biscuit!” 

“Hmph, that’s what you get for being a meanie,” she stuck her tongue out at him, before chomping the treat up in two bites.

“If gettin’ outta here means I don’t have to worry about you stealin’ my food, then I’m all for it,” Adam muttered. “...But I know what you mean. It’s been a long time since I’ve lived like a ‘normal’ person.” He gave a rueful smile. “Sometimes, it seems like I’ve almost forgotten about my life before DOGOO...”

Certainly, his life before all this hadn’t exactly been exciting, and oftentimes a younger Adam secretly wished for something to happen, to have some guiding direction in his mundane life. Be careful what you wish for, huh? Who would have thought that all it would take was a spontaneous cruise trip, right after his freshman year of college, and everything was turned upside-down? Sometimes Adam wondered what life would’ve been like, if he hadn’t discovered his powers; would he still be wishing for something to break up the ordinary, everyday monotony?

“Well...that’s why, we should take advantage of it now. ‘Cause I’m sure, even though right now I’m complaining about being bored...once we go back to the Logan, I’ll be missing this, a little bit...” Those maroon eyes seemed a bit more melancholy, her face a bit more mature for once.

“Hn. Same Ogura, same.”  

[wilsonsnest]

[w&s] date night

more general store/diner au because everyone needs that extremely specific au in their life. i only posted the last one to ao3 because it was a spicy meatball. you can find both previous parts of wilson’s & stucky’s here.

every time i write one of these it gets increasingly fluffier.

pairing: samsteve, sambucky word count: 2,972 summary: sam and steve go on a date, then bucky and steve cross a boundary.

Steve often considers that anywhere else, hell even the next town over, what they were doing would be considered outlandishly weird. But he and Bucky had basically grown up in each other’s pockets, the only brief interlude being when Bucky had shipped off with the Army. Even one less arm and ptsd between them couldn’t shake their unbreakable bond.

So the fact that the ended up falling for the same guy wasn’t all that surprising. Them both agreeing to share had been a little more unexpected, especially since Steve knew he could be a possessive bastard when he wanted to be. But if there was anyone he was willing to share Sam’s affections with, it was Bucky. And Sam clearly adored Bucky, and he’d give Sam the world on a platter if he could.

It worked out for the most part. They spent a lot of time together at Sam’s place, though Bucky tended to sleep over more. Though their relationships often intertwined, there were some major differences. Bucky and Sam almost never went out on dates. Occasionally, they’d stop by Red/Hawk’s for a quick drink and to catch up with everyone. But they never stayed for long and Bucky always grew more uncomfortable the more crowded the bar got.

Steve and Sam on the other hand, went out as often as possible. The town of Ridley was about a 45 minute drive, and while it wasn’t huge, it had a movie theatre and a few chain restaurants that made for a fairly good date night. Steve absolutely treasured those nights with Sam. Holding his hands in the dark theatre while they giggled and scoffed at the latest stupid action thriller.

Before Sam, Steve had thought mainstream dating culture was tedious. Now that he was with Sam? He sort of hated that Bucky wasn’t able to experience the same thing.

Case in point. He was leaving the closing up tonight to Bucky while he and Sam caught a 10pm movie. He changed in the employee bathroom, running his fingers through his hair to try and look a little more presentable. Ducking into the kitchen, he caught Bucky slipping his phone back into his pocket.

“Hey, Buck, I’m about to head out. You good?” Steve had asked him at least twice already. Worrying about Bucky was second nature at this point.

“M’fine, Steve.” Bucky over at him, his mouth twisted into a complicated not-quite frown. “Your gonna be late if you don’t get outta here.”

“I’m getting there.” Steve huffed, smiling a little. “If you need anything—“

“Call you, yeah, I know.” Bucky rolled his eyes. “Tell Sam I said hi.”

“That all?”

“Fuck off, Steve. Don’t do anything stupid.”

“I make no promises.”

x x x x

The movie date ended up being quite successful. They strategically chose a movie that had been out for quite a while, hoping to avoid the Saturday night crowds. Of course, being the weekend meant there were a few other patrons in the theatre. But Sam and Steve had arrived early and managed to commandeer the very back, and none of the other moviegoers seemed interested in sharing space. The scattered crowd meant that they could spend the movie holding hands and leaning over to whisper to one another during the frankly uninteresting feature.

Sam leaned over into Steve’s space, while grabbing a handful of popcorn from their shared bucket. “You still chugging through the Hobbit or did you give up?”

He couldn’t see Steve’s grimace in the darkness of the theatre, but he knew it was there.

“I haven’t ‘given up’.” Steve muttered, nudging Sam with his shoulder. “I’m just reading at my own pace. Taking it all in.”

Sam snorted and ate a few pieces of popcorn. “It’s boring, isn’t it. You hate it.”

“I don’t hate it.” Steve said stubbornly. “It’s just not my usual taste.”

Sam barely stifled a laugh. For some reason they started watching movie franchises. It had started after he, Bucky and Steve had watched all of the original Star Trek together and then decided to add on the films. Sam had suggested they do the Lord of the Rings trilogy, which they had all enjoyed immensely. Bucky’s suggestion came in the form of The Matrix, which kind of outshined Sam’s choice in a big way. Then of course Steve had to go ahead and suggest the Hobbit movies and Sam had put his foot down.

He asked Steve if he had ever even read the book. And if he really thought watching a children’s novel be spread out over three full length films was really the best use of their time. Steve had asserted that no he hadn’t read the book, and thus a deal was struck. If Steve could get through The Hobbit and still wanted to watch the movies Sam would acquiesce.

It had been five months now and updates from Bucky suggested that they still had a long ways to go before Steve was anywhere near finishing. They had moved onto the X-Men movies, much to Steve’s annoyance.

“By time you finish they’ll have remade the Lord of the Rings movies.” Sam said playfully.

With an exaggerated yawn, he stretched his arms up over his head, before looping on arm around Steve’s shoulders. He could feel his boyfriend shaking with laughter, trying to constrain his noise level. Sam smirked triumphantly even as Steve playfully slapped his chest.

“Real smooth, Sam.”

“Hey, I gotta take my chances where I see ‘em.”

They turned their attention back to the movie, which seemed to be in its final act as explosions seems to be setting off and everyone had very serious, determined looks on their faces. They finished the movie in silence, their hands occasionally brushing in the popcorn bucket. As soon as the credits hit, Steve stood, brushing the crumbs off his t-shirt and looked down at Sam.

“What’d you think?” He asked as he offered Sam his hand.

Sam smiled, Steve could be such a gentleman at times. It was endearing as hell. “5 out of 10, no idea what happened but everything seemed to work out at the end so I count that as a win.”

“Your generosity is one of the things I love about you.” Steve said cheekily. He swiped Sam’s coat before the taller man could grab it and helped him into the sleeves before Sam shrugged it the rest of the way on himself.

Steve led them out of the theatre, dutifully depositing their popcorn bucket in the trash as they headed out into the dark lobby. There were still a few movies playing, but the theatre was otherwise closed.

Out in the parking lot, the air was crisp and Sam quickly buttoned his coat. Winter was moving in much faster than Sam had anticipated, and it was one thing he was not looking forward to. He sighed in relief as Steve unlocked the door to the truck and climbed in immediately.

“You wanna stay the night?” Sam asked as he buckled his seatbelt.

“Hmm.” Steve reached over to turn on the heat and then the radio. “Actually, I was wondering if you wanted to come over to ours?”

Sam raised an eyebrow at that suggestion. Sam spent very little time at Steve and Bucky’s home. It was a beautiful two-floor stone cottage type, fairly close to lakeside. Sam liked the place, but it always felt like there were boundaries all over the home. Places were Steve wouldn’t cross and Bucky wouldn’t cross. Sam’s home truly was neutral territory for all of them.

Still the temptation was there. He would love to see Bucky tonight instead of just calling him before bed.

“He’d never say it,” Steve started as he pulled out of the parking space. “But he misses you when we go out like this.”

“Ah,” Sam sighed, looking forward out the window. “Do you think it bothers him?”

“No. Well,” Steve paused and tried to figure out how he wanted to phrase the next part. “When he goes to your house, I can always just drop by and visit. But he can’t… join us for stuff like this. It sucks.”

Sam wasn’t surprised to hear the depth of emotion in Steve’s voice. He could see his boyfriend’s hands were tense on the steering wheel. It was always so heartwarming to see how much Steve and Bucky truly cared about one another and their relationships with Sam. He remembered in the beginning, thinking that all three of them were going to date. Steve and Bucky had quickly assured him that they had no desire to date each other.

They were best friends. Brothers, really.

Sam thought it was more than that, platonic soulmates at the very least. But he knew both Bucky and Steve would just scoff at the suggestion. Sam was just happy to know that they cared about one another so fiercely. It made worrying less harrowing when you had someone else to do it with.

“It does kind of suck.” Sam admitted. He loved his date nights with Bucky. They would pile pillows and blankets onto the couch. Sometimes even light candles when they were feeling fancy and just watch re-runs of tv shows for hours. It was soothing, and Sam cherished those nights deeply.

But sometimes he wished he could do more for Bucky. His dark-haired boyfriend couldn’t quite hide the disappointment of not being able to take Sam out for movies, or dinner, or any of the other traditional date night activities.

“It’s alright though,” Sam murmured quietly, almost forgetting Steve was next to him. “I just like it when we’re together.”

He felt a hand rest gently on his thigh and looked up to see a soft smile on Steve’s lips. Sam couldn’t help the warmth that flooded his chest as he considered just how lucky he was.

x x x x

The lights were off by time they pulled up the gravel road to the lakeside cottage. Bucky probably wasn’t expecting Steve home and had likely gone to bed.

They hurried out of the car and into the home, trying escape the cold air, especially being so close to water. Steve flipped on one of the lights, while Sam shrugged out of his coat and shoes to hang them by the door.

“I didn’t bring anything to sleep in.” Sam whispered the realization. Since he rarely stayed over, it usually wasn’t a problem.

“You should be able to fit something of Bucky’s.” Steve finished taking off his coat and beckoned Sam to follow him.

They went to the small closet laundry room and Steve pulled out a shirt from the dryer. It was gray and worn, and far too big for Sam. It smelled delightfully of the detergent he had come to associate with both of his boyfriend’s.

Sam smiled gratefully and immediately pulled off his long-sleeved shirt, trying not to smirk at the way Steve’s eyes lingered on his body as he changed. Perhaps he was being a bit naughty, taking off his jeans right there in the hallway, but it was worth it for the look Steve gave him. If it weren’t so late, perhaps.

Sam bundled up his clothes and put them on top of the washing machine. He opened his mouth to speak when Steve quickly pressed him against the appliance. Sam felt his ass digging into the cold steel and he made an abrupt noise of surprise.

“Too damn tall.” Steve groused, as he pushed a knee between Sam’s leg and reached up to pull Sam down.

Amused, Sam obliged and leaned down to kiss his shorter boyfriend, sweet at first. Steve made a noise of regret as soon as they pulled away and tugged Sam down again for a much more intensive exploration. Sam could practically feel himself melting, the irresistible taste and feel of Steve tempting him.

He pulled away, trying to keep a cool head even as he looked down at Steve’s wet, reddened lips. “It’s way too late for this.”

“I can be quick.” Steve said cheekily, though his mood seemed more relaxed.

“You’re a mess, Rogers.” Sam laughed and shook his head. He leaned down and pressed a kiss to his forehead before playfully pushing him away. “D’you think Bucky would mind…?”

“I think he’ll be pleasantly surprised.” Steve answer encouragingly, putting a hand on Sam’s back. “Go on.”

Sam flashed him a grateful smile before heading up the stairs to Bucky’s bedroom. The door was only half closed, which made it easy for him to quietly enter. The room was fairly dark, though the glow of the clock on Bucky’s dresser made it easier to see. He carefully sat at the foot of Bucky’s bed, not wanting to startle him.

He reached out until he felt the lump of a foot underneath the comforter and called gently. “James?”

For a moment, he’d thought perhaps he had been too soft when he heard a shuffling and then movement underneath his hand.

“Steve?” Bucky’s voice was rough with sleep and he sounded adorably confused.

“Nah, the handsome one.” Sam replied.

In an instance, light flooded the room as Bucky turned on the lamp nearby. Sam squinted, startled by the sudden brightness and could see Bucky doing the same. His boyfriend’s hair was a mess, sticking up at odd angles and twisting around his head. He still looked half-asleep, blinking at Sam like he wasn’t quite sure of what he was seeing.

“Sammy?” Bucky finally asked, the question lilting upwards at the end.

“Hi Bucky.” Sam ducked his head, suddenly feeling a little shy. He watched at Bucky’s eyes flickered to the shirt Sam was wearing as realization dawned.

“Sammy.” His voice was almost achingly soft.

Sam couldn’t resist anymore and crawled up the bed to Bucky, smiling as his boyfriend immediately wrapped his arm around him. Barely awake, but looking at Sam like he was the most wondrous thing he’d ever laid eyes on. Sam smiled brightly before leaning in and kissing Bucky, heart fluttering at the other man eagerly kissed back.

“I missed you.” Sam said when they pulled away, looking up at Bucky from under his lashes.

“How was your date?” Bucky asked, the slightest protective streak coming out.

Sam reached up and cradled Bucky’s cheek, touched by his concern. “Perfect, well,” Sam shook his head. “The movie wasn’t good but the company was great.”

“Oh good, about Steve. Not the movie.” Bucky’s brows knitted together before he yawned loudly right in Sam’s face. “Oh, God, sorry.”

Sam’s shoulders shook with the effort of stopping himself from laughing. “No, you're exhausted, I’m sorry I woke you up.”

“Don’t be sorry.” Bucky tugged him closer. “Glad you’re here.”

Sam smiled and tucked his head under Bucky’s chin. He sighed as Bucky laid back down, pulling Sam on top of him. The light was still on, and Sam was the closest, but he just wanted to lay there for a moment. Bucky’s familiar lavender soap and lemon-scented clorox wipe smell easily relaxing him.

“Where’s Steve?” Bucky murmured quietly, seemingly in no hurry to move either.

Sam didn’t have the answer as there was a knock on the door and then Steve poked his head in, probably seeing that the light was still on.

“Just saying good night.” He said sheepishly, probably feeling like he was intruding. “Closing went alright, Buck?”

Bucky let out a mock over-dramatic sigh. “Yes, Steve. I managed to survive the night.”

“I’m very proud of you.” Steve’s voice was so earnest that both Sam and Bucky had to laugh. “Seriously, I appreciate it. We had a good time.”

“Glad you're both back safe.” Bucky’s voice was warm, his eyes looking from Steve then down to Sam nestled against his chest.

“G’night then, Bucky. Love you Sam.” Steve reached to close the door when Bucky stopped him.

“Wait, wait.” Bucky raised his voice just a little. He bit his lip, hesitating only for a moment before he jerked his head up. “C’mon, the bed’s big enough.”

Steve’s eyes widened so much that Sam had to close his eyes to keep form laughing. The blonde just stood in the doorway for a moment, too surprised to even respond. This was not a boundary they had crossed over at their home. Sure, they’d done it at Sam’s because that was the only bed available, but here?

Sam finally looked and saw that Steve was obviously calculating the pros and cons in his head. But he also knew the longer Steve hesitated, the more anxious Bucky was going to get.

“Steve, its a cold night.” Sam spoke up, trying to ease the tension. “I’ll definitely need the extra body warmth.”

Both Bucky and Steve snorted at that. Steve’s body was about as useful as a heater as a thin towel in Alaska. Despite that, the sentiment seemed enough for Steve to take up the offer. Bucky scooted over so that Sam would be in the middle and Steve climbed into bed on Sam’s right. He turned off the lights before snuggling up against Sam’s back, sighing contentedly.

“S’just like when we were kids, huh, Buck?” Steve whispered, his breath ghosting pleasantly against Sam’s back.

“Sam’s a much better cuddler than Mister Honeysuckle.” Bucky asserted.

“Mister Honeysuckle?” Sam asked, confused.

“Big stuffed giraffe we won at a carnival.” Steve explained as a he wrapped an arm around Sam.

Sam hummed in understanding before letting out a yawn of his own. Quiet fell as all three of them began to answer the tempting call of sleep. Sam couldn’t help but be so grateful to be able to have them both like this.

“I won that giraffe, Rogers.”

Was the last thing whispered into the night.

[lady-charinette]

Life is a song, Love is the lyrics - Lukanette

Originally posted on FFnet: https://www.fanfiction.net/s/12886816/4/Of-Compasses-and-Statues

Rated: T

NOTICE: The small paragraph with Luka's lyrics is purely made up by me!

Life is a song, love is the lyrics

He's the guitar player that will melt your heart and make your compass go crazy.

At least, that's what Alya's most recent comment made Marinette believe.

"Girl, you know I'm like, the biggest Adrienette shipper on this planet," her friend's smile turned sympathetic but sad as she rested a hand on her shoulder, "But you've been running after Adrien for long enough, I think maybe something new may not be so bad. Who knows," she smiled encouragingly.

Marinette frowned, "N-no! You're wrong Alya! I-I can't just…just forget Adrien!" she played with her fingers nervously as they neared school, "I mean…I just met Luka a few days ago on the music festival. W-we were just talking after all and he just gave me his guitar pick, it doesn't mean anything!" she laughed nervously, trying to forget the fact that she was carrying the gift in her pants pocket right now.

…She didn't even have a guitar!

Alya sighed, "Marinette, I'm not saying to forget about Adrien, okay? I'm just saying that… a new ice-cream flavor may open up a whole new perspective!" she grinned and winked.

Ice cream? Weren't they talking about compasses and statues? Ugh!

Alya's gaze narrowed before her whole face suddenly broke into a smile and she waved, "Hey! Over here guys!"

For a moment, Marinette thought she was waving over Adrien and Nino, and her heart did that nervous pitter-patter thing again. She could feel the familiar urge to stutter rising in her chest. Yes! This was the Marinette she knew! Right! Adrien, Adrien, Adrien, Adri-

"Hey," Marinette's eyes flew open at the too deep, too smooth voice calling out to them.

Wait…Adrien didn't have such a deep voice…Nino didn't either…just who-

"Hey girls," wait…Juleka?

Marinette's heart plummeted to her stomach and soared up again to her throat when she noticed just who stood right in front of her.

It was Juleka.

With Luka.

"Hi guys, fancy meeting you here," Alya's comment was more directed toward Luka than Juleka and the guitarist picked up on it with a smile.

"I'm just accompanying my sister to school, see what it's like and all," Luka's eyes didn't stay on Alya for long as he turned his attention to Marinette, "Hey Ma-ma-Marinette," he chuckled, shooting her a reassuring wink.

Marinette the compass combusted.

"O-oh, uh, h-hi L-L-Luka!" Marinette froze, inwardly cursing herself, "I-I mean, hayo!"

Alya giggled beside her. Hayo? What was that?!

Luka seemed to be amused at her stuttering, "Hayo? Oh you mean 'ohayo'?" he grinned, "Well, it's still morning, I guess," he chuckled good naturedly and Juleka smiled at Marinette's attitude.

"I didn't know you knew Japanese too," Juleka commented with a small smile and a raised eyebrow, watching her brother's face soften.

Alya looked at the blue-haired girl with raised eyebrows, crossed arms and a smug smirk.

Marinette wanted to die, "Oh, uh, Japanese, right, right. Well, I…h-have relatives in Japan too! I just know a few words really," the god of all kwamis help her if she survived this encounter with a few bruises.

Luka smiled, "Really? That's awesome, I've always wanted to learn a language like that. Maybe you could teach me sometime?" his smile was innocent and friendly, but to Marinette, it spelled all kinds of trouble.

Her poor brain was melting, 'ME?! HIM?! STUDYING?! JAPANESE?! BUT I DON'T KNOW JAPANESE! WHAT DO I DO, WHAT DO I DO?! I NEED TO LEARN JAPANESE! NO, WAIT!' Marinette's mouth was open but no sound came out and Alya waved her hand in front of her face to snap her friend out of her trance-like state.

Luka frowned worriedly, "Are you okay Marinette?" his hand was on her shoulder in concern and she could suddenly smell his subtle cologne and -he was so close- and he was looking at her with those worried, blue eyes of his and -he was so close!- she was pretty sure she wasn't even talking but just staring at him and smelling him, and he smelled so nice and it made her head spin and-he was so close!

"Hellooo? Earth to Marinette?" Alya gently knocked her knuckles against the side of her friend's head and that seemed to do the trick.

"You s-smell nice," Alya's jaw dropped and Juleka's visible eye widened considerably as Marinette muttered these words and they both knew she hadn't meant to say them out loud.

Luka seemed….stunned, "T-thanks," Juleka's gaze switched to her brother, did he just…stutter? "You smell really nice too, Marinette,"

You smell really nice too, Marinette.

You smell really nice too, Marinette.

You smell really nice too, Mari-

"T-thanks!" she squeaked when she felt the sharp finger jab at her spine and Alya's surprised but elated look focused on them entirely.

Luka chuckled, seeming a bit flustered at the sudden but welcome compliment and he just…looked at her with a fond smile.

Juleka cleared her throat, "Shouldn't we head to class?" she was pretty sure they had madame Mendelev and she wouldn't want to be late to her class.

Alya grinned like a fox, "You're right Juleka! What a great idea!" Alya winked but Juleka shook her head with a smile and Alya smiled back, "Let me just find Nino, see ya later guys!" she waved as she sprinted toward school in speed Marinette had rarely seen her in.

Luka chuckled as he started to walk alongside his sister and Marinette, Juleka having started to slowly start walking toward school so they wouldn't be late to class, but still not miss this moment.

Marinette blushed, "So, uh, you said you were coming to see the school?" she looked up at Luka to find he was already looking at her.

He shared a look with his sister, "Yeah, I wanted to see where my sister went to school and what her friends were like. I've seen some pictures, but I wanted a few names with the faces," he pointedly looked at Marinette, "And I guess walking on land is a nice change of scenery from the sea," Juleka and him both chuckled, knowing how their mother disagreed.

Marinette smiled and giggled, relaxing, "Oh, I see. Well, I hope you'll like it." When Luka looked back at her, she blushed, "I mean, your visit to school and all and meeting the others," she scratched her neck, wishing the ground would swallow her up before she found a safe topic, "Wait, but don't you have school too?" she rose an eyebrow.

Luka sighed, "No, I was homeschooled until now, but I'm thinking of applying to a real school," he smiled sheepishly, "There are many schools to choose from, it's kind of a hard pick." Marinette rose an eyebrow.

Luka was sending Marinette a sidelong glance, "You know what they say about us guitarists," he smiled, "We are picky about the things we like," he winked at Marinette and Juleka could see her brain was slowly malfunctioning.

"Uhm, w-well I really hope you like our-m-my- uhm, this school!" she giggled nervously, "I mean, we could use someone like you with your skills with the guitar in choir and uh, with our school's music festivals and- I bet the monsieur Damocles will be thrilled to hear you play!" she grinned widely, too widely.

Juleka giggled, hoping her brother's playful side wouldn't overwhelm her friend too much, if only Luka wouldn't overdo it-

"Woah," Luka suddenly stopped walking, before smiling at Marinette with his half-lidded look, "Was that an earthquake or did you just rock my world?" he chuckled when he saw Marinette's face turn a new shade of red. He had to confess, the unexpected compliments swayed him slightly, he hadn't expected that from the shy girl.

Juleka shook her head, "You're horrible," Luka shot her a small smile, watching as Marinette tried to string together words with her tomato face.

The bell rang and both girls had slightly panicked looks on their faces, "Sorry but we have to hurry to be on time!" Juleka waved at her brother as she raced toward the hallway, "Come on Marinette!" the girl nodded, on the verge of taking off, before it hit her.

Luka punned.

Twice!

An image of Chat Noir suddenly appeared in her mind and Marinette violently shook her head, "No, no, no! That can't be! It's impossible! Luka can't be Chat! Luka's been chained up during the akuma attack while Chat Noir was up fighting Captain Hardrock!" she groaned.

Luka rose an eyebrow bemusedly as he watched the girl despair, "Better hurry Marinette," he watched the girl break out into a dead run when she spotted him watching her, her flushed face made him chuckle.

"What a girl…" he muttered under his breath, sighing as he took out his small, black notebook and produced a pen from his pocket, scribbling something down.

Dark blue hair

Bright blue eyes

Cutest face and sweetest smile

Turning my world upside down

I feel like I could drown

Shy, sweet, smart on her feet

She stutter's in a heartbeat

And rocks my world

Along with my heartbeat

Luka smiled, closing his notebook and putting it away, looking at the school building, "A guitarist may be picky, but I think I just found what I was looking for."

He smiled and adjusted his bag slung over his shoulder, his application forms for school already in hand.

[imagineiero]

little bird

Your best friend Frank questions his sexuality - Friends to Lovers AU.  (Smut Warning!)  Era: Revenge!Frank

“Hey Y/N?” Frank spoke softly, you could tell he hadn’t been paying attention to the movie for a while, he’d spaced out in thought and you’d been sneaking glances at him for the last half hour “How did you know you were bi?”

“Um.. well, I just realised I liked guys and girls” You shrugged nonchalantly “I was probably 14 when I realised for real but I’d had little crushes on both since I was a kid really”

“I just-.. I was with Gee for so long..” Frank sighed “..-and we were so young when we first got together I think that maybe I didn’t really give it much thought, I was just too busy chasing him”

Frank was 21 now, you both were - you’d met at one of his shows a few years back and hit it off instantly and he’d quickly become your best friend, you were inseparable to the point where you’d happily let him move in with you when he broke up with his boyfriend Gee. They’d been a cute couple, childhood sweethearts who’d grown up together but drifted when Gee started his final year of Art college, you’d all remained friends - it was an amicable split and you were glad for Frank’s sake if anything.

“Well, did you like any girls when you were growing up?” You ask, turning your attention away from the film and focusing solely on him, sat with his back against the headboard of his bed

“I guess-.. I mean, sure I thought girls were pretty and all but.. I don’t know, I just always liked Gee-.. ever since I could remember he’d been Mikey’s dorky big brother” he smiled fondly

“Well how about recently, I mean-.. you’ve been single for a while now.. any girls take your fancy, or guys for that matter?”

“Hm.. that guy at the coffee shop the other day was kinda cute I guess” Frank shrugged, looking thoughtful “and-..” he trailed off, chewing on his lower lip

“and?” You tilt your head, coaxing a blush from him as he finally revealed “Well.. there’s this one girl, I guess..”

“Yeah?” You perk up, finally getting somewhere “Tell me about her, what’s her name?”

“I can’t say her name” He shook his head instantly, eyes wide

“Okay..” You smirk, tugging him down so you’re both side by side on the pillows - the movie long forgotten in the background “So tell me about her, what you think about her”

Frank thought for a moment, pursing his lips “She’s real pretty, and smart.. uh.. she makes me laugh..” he smiles shyly as he lists off her qualities “She’s fun to be around, makes me happy..”

“Okay-..” You nod, thinking it over “Well.. I guess you could think of friends like that too so I don’t know if it mean you’re bisexual, Frank-..”

“But what about-..” He clamps his mouth shut, shutting his eyes momentarily before continuing “Don’t laugh but.. I er.. think of her a lot when I’m.. y’know-..alone” he emphasises the ‘alone’ with an eyebrow raise but you decide to drag it out a bit more, embarrass him a little

“Oh yeah?” You hum “What sort of things do you think about, Frankie-boy?”

“I can’t tell you that!” He scoffs, blushing furiously as he covers his face with his arms

“Come on!” You tease, tugging his arms away “I’m trying to help you here, tell me what you think about”

Frank sighs defeated, glancing at you for a second before laying on his back and closing his eyes with a long exhale “I swear to God you’re lucky you’re my best friend” He groans “If you repeat any of what I’m about to say to anyone I’ll fucking kill you”

“Oh the deep, dark mind of Frank Iero..” You sigh dreamily, receiving a backhanded slap to your thigh as you chuckle, laying down next to him on your back “Okay, spill it, Iero”

“Okay.. because this isn’t awkward at all-..” he snickers, biting his lip as he composes himself “Right well.. I mean obviously I think about her body and stuff..”

“Yeah but like, in general or specifics?”

“Does it matter? I’m thinking about a girls body with my dick in my hand is that not enough for you bisexuals?” he laughs childishly

“God, Frank.. I never took you as a shy boy-..” You tease, knowing that it’ll only spur him on and damn, you’re interested now, you kind of want to hear the inner workings of Frank’s mind.

“You’re insatiable” He groans loudly “Fine, I er.. I like her hips.. they’re all curvy and.. yeah.. and-.. she’s got these red panties that she sometimes wears and I like those too-..”

“You’ve seen her panties?” You snort, making him laugh

“I’m not like a fucking creep!” He defends “I could see the waistband when her shirt rode up”

“Yeah? What else?” You push, you can’t help but think that you have a pair of red panties that you like to wear but no, it can’t be you.. a lot of girls have red panties..

“Her skin’s real smooth” He explains “Like, I don’t know-.. soft and-.. feels nice, y’know?”

“You’ve touched her, you weirdo?” You laugh, bringing yet another snort from him “Should we inform her about restraining orders, Frankie?”

“I’ve hugged her!” He laughs, bringing his hands up to his face “and like, I don’t know-.. held her hand and stuff.. I don’t go out there touching up random girls, Y/N!”

“Are you sure that’s all there is Frankie?” You tease, rolling onto your side to poke him playfully “You gonna tell me you know what she looks like in her underwear next? Any secret birthmarks you’ve got stored away in that memory of yours?”

“No, no birthmarks-..” He laughs breathlessly, as you tickle his side “J-Just a tattoo!”

“What tattoo?” You pressure him, as he tries to bat your tickling fingers away, both of you laughing breathlessly until he nearly falls onto the floor “Come on Frankie, don’t hold out on me now!”

“O-Okay-..O-Okay-..I-I give-..” He pants trying to stop your tickle attack as he laughs so hard his face reddens “It’s just a little bir-..” he stops abruptly, eyes bugging out as he clamps his mouth shut

You pause your movements, hovering over him with your hands pressed to his torso - his own hands loose around your wrists as you both stare silently, processing the admission he’s just unwillingly blurted from his mouth. He looks mortified and it takes an extra second for you to register the fact that you have a tattoo of a tiny bird on your right hipbone below the waistband of your underwear, one he could only have seen if he’d been paying extra attention when you dressed in the same room or shared a bed like you did some nights.

“Y/N-..” He trails off, seemingly unsure what he should say in this situation. His hands remain around your wrists that stay planted, effectively pinning him to the bed.

You’re not upset, or even weirded out by the fact he’s seen your intimate ink - you’re just shocked. You’ve liked Frank for a long time, almost since the moment you’d met him but you’d settled with the fact that he’s gay and wouldn’t share a second glance with you. It’s like at this moment all your dreams have come true but neither of you know what to do with that information.

“H-How do you know that?” You whisper quietly, eyes searching his as he swallows nervously - probably thinking you’re about to slap him and tell him to leave

“I-.. I er.. I swear it wasn’t intentional-..” He whispers back, voice shaky “You were here one night-..” he says, referring to his bed “..- your shirt rode up and I-.. I caught a glimpse.. that’s it, I swear-..”

He looks panicked now, like he’s waiting for a bomb to go off - you swear his eyes have widened to double their size and you can feel his heart racing underneath your hand

“How long?”

“H-How long what-..”

“How long have you felt like this?”

“I-.. I don’t know-..” he admits, swallowing thickly - his eyes are glassy, beginning to wet slightly “I’ve always-.. always felt strongly for you but-.. but I didn’t know what it was until recently-..”

You nod slowly, unable to process what you’re hearing - you feel like you owe him some kind of response but the words dissolve on your lips and you’re nervous, it’s like all these feelings you’d buried are beginning to resurface and you’re terrified they’re going to seep from your pores and you won’t be able to control them.

“I-I’m sorry Y/N-..” he whispers hoarsely, his voice is broken and cracking “I never meant for this-..”

His eyes look like they’re about to spill over and you can’t deal with that, you don’t ever want to see him cry, you’ve seen it before and it breaks your heart to witness. You cut him off before he can break any more, catching his lips mid-word and silencing any apologies. He stills for just a second, gasping against your mouth but then he’s catching up with your assault, moving his lips skilfully against your own, his hand coming up to cup the back of your hair lightly. You break away slightly, leaving your lips brushing against his own as you let out a shaky breath, his eyes opening to meet your gaze.

“W-Wow..” he whispers, hand still caressing the back of your hair “I-.. Wow, Y/N-..”

“You have no idea how long I’ve wanted to kiss you” You whisper back, your heart racing from the adrenaline

“I think we’ve wasted enough time, don’t you?” He murmurs, eyes falling to your lips again before he tugs you back in and kisses you more passionately this time.

You rise up on your knees, straddling him blindly as he slides his tongue past your lips and moves his hands to your waist, bringing you down against his body and holding you securely. You move your hands up to tangle in his hair, tugging gently as he moans quietly into your mouth, rubbing his crotch up against your heat. You moan as you roll your hips down, his hardness pressing against your panties - you’re thankful that you’re wearing a nightshirt and not anything restricting because you want to feel everything.

Frank lifts a leg, kicking his foot off the mattress to roll you over and pin you to the bed roughly with a quiet grunt, not breaking away from his hold on your lips. You sigh as he grinds his arousal down against you, pulling your bare legs around his waist as his hand finds its way beneath your shirt. You whimper desperately as his fingers graze over your nipple, feel his smirk against your lips as he tugs at the sensitive bud, flicking and twisting gently until you’re whining and arching your back as best as you can underneath him.

“Yeah? That good?” He hums, moving away to sweep his tongue against your throat, grazing his teeth against the skin

“F-Frankie-..” You gasp out as he bites down, running his tongue over the flesh as he sucks a bruise into your neck “F-Fuck Frankie, Yes-..”

“Mm..Fuck, you taste better than I imagined-..” He groans, dragging his tongue across the abused skin - you wonder where the shy, nervous boy has disappeared to but you’re pleasantly surprised with his replacement “I want you, Y/N-.. All of you-..”

“Please Frankie-..” You sigh, as he blindly unfastens the buttons on your nightshirt, pushing it from your body with ease and leaving your swollen pink nipples to grow impossibly harder in the cool air “A-Anything Frankie-.. N-Need you-..” You whine desperately, arching your back off the bed as he gazes down hungrily at your exposed body.

You should feel nervous to be so naked in front of him, just your panties shielding you from his gaze but the way he’s staring down at you so lust-filled has you overflowing with confidence and you can’t help but reach out and tug at his shirt, bringing him from his trance just enough to tear his own shirt over his head and reveal the tattoos that you’ve seen so much of, you can’t wait to taste them.

Frank moves to mouth at your nipple, sucking it between his teeth and biting down with just enough pressure to balance you on the fine line between pain and pleasure. You gasp and feed your fingers through his hair, tugging at the messy strands with a whimper until he releases and blows on the hard buds, the cold air from his lips teasing them and making you shiver.

He navigates his way down your torso, mouthing at every ridge in your abdomen - his hands trailing up and down your sides gently until he reaches your hips, shaping your curves repeatedly with each stroke. He dips his tongue into your navel, swirling it around before dragging it lower and lower, nipping at the waistband of your panties until you gasp out a “Please Frankie-..” and buck your hips from the bed, allowing him to tug the remaining material down past your ankles.

His thumb finds your tattoo, tracing in circles over it until he replaces the digit with his mouth - tonguing at the pretty line-art and leaving wet, open-mouthed kisses against it until he gets lower, following your V-line down until he’s breathing against you, tantalising your soaking wet heat even more than just the sight of him between your legs. He uses two fingers to part your folds, sweeping his tongue from your perineum to your clit in one movement and you can’t help but wonder if he’s been watching pornos to get an insight in what to do, either way his tongue is working double-time like a fucking champ.

It’s dipped inside your hole now, swirling around before coming out to trace against you, his tongue flat against your throbbing clit, he must be able to feel it - pulsing against his mouth, desperate for release. He slides two fingers inside you, groaning loudly against you - the vibrations radiating down to your core “Fuck Y/N, such a pretty little hole-.. so fucking tight for me-..” he hums, flicking his tongue repeatedly against your clit as he angles his fingers, locating your g-spot almost instantly and bringing a punched-out moan from somewhere deep inside you.

“R-Right there-.. Oh Frankie!” You whimper, legs beginning to quiver already and it’s barely been a few minutes.

“Fuck, I’ve been waiting to hear you make those sounds-..” he bites his lip, driving his fingers repeatedly into your spot “..-wanted to be the one to-.. to make you moan like-..”

“A-Ah-.. F-Frankie!” You cry out, thighs trembling either side of him as you reach your peak.

He’s relentless with his movements, thrusting his two fingers over and over as you ride out your wave - removing them only to press his face against your heat, his tongue lapping up your wetness and the roughness of his shaved jawline driving you wild as his hands grip underneath your thighs, pulling you ever closer while he teases you through the aftershocks.

“Ohh-.. Oh Fuck Yeah-..” You sigh dreamily, rocking your self against him slowly as he steadily comes to a stop, kissing his way upwards until his chin is resting on your lower stomach and your hands are loose in his hair.

“You’re amazing” He mumbles, pressing a soft kiss just below your navel

“W-Where did you learn to do that?” You respond breathlessly

He chuckles lightly “Not bad for a first timer, huh?”

“How about you show me what else you can do, huh?” You tease, rolling your lower lip around between your teeth

His eyes light up mischievously as he crawls the length of your body, pressing his forehead against yours “You asking me fuck you, Y/N?”

“You know I am” You grin, nipping at his bottom lip playfully

“Some manners would be nice, baby-..” He teases, rubbing his boxer-clad erection over your bare crotch “Ask fucking nicely”

“Please Frankie-..” You moan, widening your eyes as you pout “..-I’ve been a real good girl, will you please fuck me?”

He groans, leaning forward to kiss you hungrily “Fuck, I’ll never get bored of hearing you moan my name like that”

You’re vaguely aware of him kicking his boxers away while his tongue explores your mouth, he breaks away only to reach into the drawer of his night-stand and pull out a familiar foil square, ripping the corner with his teeth before expertly rolling it over his length. He moves his mouth to your jaw and then neck, all teeth-and-tongue ravaging the sweet spot below your ear as he lines himself up - the mixture of sensations making you repeatedly sigh his name, your hands buried in his hair.

He hooks his hands underneath your thighs, adjusting you until your legs are wrapped comfortably around his waist, one hand on your hip and the other planted next to your shoulder - holding him above you as he slowly pushes inside. You share a mutual gasp as your heat engulfs him and by the time he bottoms out he’s sucking softly at your neck, leaving tiny hickeys as he tastes every inch he can reach.

“Fuck, you’re so tight-..” He groans, beginning to rock his hips gently “..-F-Feels amazing”

He builds up his pace rather quickly, encouraged by your moans and compliments - by the time he’s found his rhythm you’re both slipping out expletives and the air is thick and hot. You’ve got one hand buried in his hair, tugging roughly just the way he likes it and your other is leaving crescent moons and scratch-marks down his spine. He surprises you with a circle of his hips, slamming back into you and pounding into your g-spot, the loud moan that erupts from your throat should be embarrassing but it drags an even louder one from him and it’s enough to make the heat start pooling in your lower half for the second time.

“F-Frankie-.. ‘m so close-..” You whimper, your thighs beginning to quiver beneath his grip

“Me too-.. Me too-..” He pants out, resting his forehead against yours as his thrusts grow sloppy

He’s slack-jawed and sweaty, his eyes half-lidded and darker than you’ve ever seen them before - his hips stutter barely a minute later, pulling a final punched-out moan from him as he releases inside of you. The blissed-out look on his face when his furrowed brow softens and his eyes roll back is enough to tip you over the edge, your walls clenching around his already sensitive cock and dragging a spent-out whine from his lips. Your back arches off the bed and you’re sure you’ve blacked out for a moment, sated and exhausted in the best way - you’re vaguely aware of him pulling away, he’s gone for a short while, probably disposing of the condom but before you know it he’s crawling over you again - peppering your face in soft, slow kisses until you crack your eyes open, smiling tiredly as he presses a gentle kiss to your lips.

“Please tell me that wasn’t a one-time thing-..” He murmurs, rolling from your body to the bed and pulling you with him so you’re pressed into his chest comfortably “..-because I don’t think I can deal with never feeling like that again”

“Me too-..” You smile, sliding a hand up to rest on the side of his neck - his pulse is still racing beneath your palm “..-I’ve wanted this for so long”

“You never told me” Frank whispers, nudging his nose against your softly “Would you ever have, if I hadn’t have said all that tonight?”

You shake your head “I never knew you were into girls, didn’t want to ruin what we had for you to not feel the same way as I do”

“Tell me-..” He tucks your hair behind your ear gently “..I want to know everything”

You smile shyly, and though you’ve just had sex you can’t help but feel a little bashful telling him all about your schoolgirl crush.

“I knew as soon as I met you that I felt an attraction, didn’t know how strong it was until later on” You admit, tracing your fingertips down his chest “When you moved in here it just-.. I don’t know, everything fell into place, it felt like home - I’ve never felt this safe and secure and loved around anybody before-..” you trail off

“You’re my best friend” He whispers, smiling down on you “but it’s more than that, even before tonight - it was more than that, I couldn’t imagine not waking up with you here-.. you’re the first and last thing I think of, always-.. I-.. I’m sorry it took so long for me to tell you..”

“Don’t apologise, you were working yourself out-.. I understand” You reassure him with a soft kiss “Besides, it’s better this way.. it doesn’t feel rushed, it just-.. it’s natural”

“Well I’m not wasting any more time trying to figure things out-..” Frank presses another kiss to your lips “..-I know what I want now, and it’s you - it’s always been you”

The words were music to your ears, it had been a long time coming but so worth it in the end. You never slept in your own room again after that night, taking up the space where you belonged in Frank’s arms - a year later and you were still strong, enough for him to sweep you off your feet with a romantic engagement, you said yes - of course - planning the halloween-themed wedding of the century for the following October.

Your tattoo had become a special reminder of how your relationship, and later marriage came to be - it was on Frank’s birthday that you decided mid-honeymoon to pay a visit to a tattoo shop local to your hotel - adding your wedding date and his initials to the little bird that spilled the secret of your requited love that night, watching movies in your room-mates bed.

You never did get to see the end of the movie.

[murkrees]

older brother! nct (hyung line)

Taeil

okay so

let me start with taeil

cute floofy taeil okay

taeil just gives off these warm brotherly vibes u know???

like honestly you were b l e s s e d to have moon taeil as ur bro

ever since childhood he’d just be so naturally protective over you like

it wouldn’t be overprotectiveness like a certain someone (ty track cOUGH) but it would just be so subtle

as in if you both would be on the bus he would give you the seat closer to the window and stand up while keeping an eye out for anybody who even tried to touch you the wrong way

would be the best if you needed help with your homework

didn’t understand an equation? mOON TAEIL AT YOUR SERVICE

if u ever brought friends over and he would accidentally walk out with his bed hair, oversized tee and boxers

happens way too many times is2g

he’d just stop in his tracks and stare at you all with a blush on his cheeks before whirling around on his heel and walking back to his room without a word

hES SO AWKWARD ITS PRECIOUS AAA

he wouldn’t be the type to glare daggers at a guy you brought over

he’d just stare at him while trying to calm himself down and gulp nervously, eyes shaking like they were in nct life paju during yaja time

he’d clear his throat so much and ask so many weird questions

"so how long have you been dating my sibling”

"around two months?”

"uhh, that’s great, congratulations”

he wouldn’t be super aggressive w you than he would be with the other nct members

but during christmas don’t expect him to be above shoving you outta the way to get to the presents first

moon taeil is precious protect him

Johnny

JOHNNY

MY MAN

u guys would be sibling goals af ngl

would always back down in fights cause he hated fighting w u

always always always ruffles your hair

can get aggressive sometimes but its okay you get aggressive back

would be ur no.1 supporter

have an show at school??? expect him to have front row seats while holding a handycam in his hand, cheering the loudest 4 u

fundraiser????? he’ll be standing by your booth and persuading everyone to buy your cupcakes cause let’s be real this boy has looks and enough smooth talk to churn butter

going on a date to a fancy restaurant? it’s johnny’s fashion evaluation

"wear the red dress we bought two months ago and use the pearl earrings mom gave you for your birthday”

"what are those heeeeels use the other pair woman!!! ur legs will look better”

wouldn’t be the overprotective type if you brought a guy/girl over

would try to get along as well as he could w him/her to make you comfortable

he always puts you first and makes sure you know that

Taeyong

lee taeyong!!!

real sweetheart

would b so overprotective of u and he wouldn’t even realize

if u brought a guy over he’d just make up random excuses to tail you around and “supervise”

cough cough glare at him the whole time

but halfway through he’d just kinda snap back to reality and realize how he’d been acting

and just kind of tone it down a little

ngl your friends would love going over to your house because of him lmao

you guys would just have that kind of relationship where you just completely understand and count on each other

like if you had a nightmare you’d just knock on his room door and peek in and he’s writing lyrics with only his desk lamp on

and he looks up at you with bed hair and home clothes and he sees your face

you guys don’t even exchange words before he understands you had a nightmare and you just trudge over and flop on his bed and fall asleep there as he continues to write lyrics

or if he had a particularly stressful day and he’d come home looking like shit

you’d just bring out the pillows and blankets and lay them out on the sofa with two tubs of ice cream with your favorite flavors

and he’d just plop down next to you and you’d just listen to him vent

honestly taeyong wouldn’t even be in the position he was in now if it weren’t for you

sibling support 100000000%

Yuta

this boi

probably made you cry a lot during your childhood lbr

there’d be times where he’d tease you for your pigtails

“mooooom yuta’s teasing me again!!!”

“moooooooooooooooom yuta’s teasing me again!!!!!!!!!!” (yuta’s imitation of your voice)

but as you both grew up he matured and so did u

of course there’d still be times where he’d tease you but they’d be more playful and less intense

“what are you going on, a date? who’s the unlucky guy stupid enough to go on a date with you”

“funny because the last time i checked he was in that idol group of yours”

cue yuta choking on his spit

there’d be times where you’d be cooped up in your room studying for exams

and he’d knock on your room door licking a stick of ice cream and handing another one to you while asking if you needed a break of a ride to the nearest café/starbucks for a change of scenery

or times where he’d be in a pissy mood and you made sure to give him space to cool down

but u do knock on his door and tell him quietly that you have a plate of his favorite food in the microwave

and he never answers but by the morning the plate would already be washed

brags abt u a lot to the other members (not that you would know that)

tbh i honestly think he’d be even more protective than taeyong

wouldn’t be above threatening your boyfriend if they ever hurt you

if u ever come home crying he’d go ballistic

“tELL ME WHO THE HELL I NEED TO BEAT UP ONLY I CAN MAKE MY SISTER CRY”

secretly a big softie for you no lie

Kun

the nicest older brother to ever exist

the most understanding person you’ve ever met

treats you to food all the time

never allows you to pay after

“what kind of older brother would i be if i cant even treat you for a meal??”

you go to him for advice,, like,, all the time

a great listener

went home crying after some school drama? better expect kun already there with some ice cream and blankets ready to listen to your latest emotional rollercoaster

your parents could always trust him to take care of you if they had dates or had to go out so you never had babysitters

all your friends wish they had kun as their older brother

(pretty sure some of them had crushes on him, but i mean,,,, who wouldn’t)

can be savage if he wants to but only if you poke fun at him

doesn’t look like it but can be quite playful

sometimes you’d tease him and he’d just look at you with that done-ass face

drives you everywhere!!! even accompanies you to the mall or to do some shopping

actually so touched the first time you bought him a meal with your own money

“my baby’s growing up…” sniff

“shut up this is literally a two dollar street snack”

in his eyes you’re still a little kid

love older brother kun thanks

Doyoung

ngl he’d be the type to not know how to act around you when you both were young??

“what do you want for your christmas present?? what do girls ur age like??? what do children like keep me up to date what are fedgeet speeners”

only comes out of his room to grab some food

as you both grew older he’d be more comfortable around you

before performances he would send you selcas of him to ease his preperformance nerves

tons of selcas his gallery would be filled with them tbh

“whos ur favorite brother”

“obviously me ahaha who am i kidding”

“its not gongmyung right”

“right???”

“(y/n) pls answer me”

always remembers to buy you random trinkets from his tours abroad bcs he knows how much u love them

u always go to him when you need help with your schoolwork or study but always roasts you about your grades

“what do you mean you don’t understand trigonometry its literally the easiest thing in the book”

his savage side always shows up whenever u two hang out together

“oh u like that necklace? buy it urself”

ends up buying that necklace for u anyway

showers u with gifts cause he doesn’t know how to show his affection otherwise

nags u a lot but that’s because he lovs u

(and bcos ur a mess)

“you ate dinner right?? im not accepting a ‘yes’ if you ate instant ramyeon”

“i don’t care if you have finals you are bathing at least once a day ya stinkie”

“wash those dishes piling up in your sink (y/n) gross”

be grateful for older brother doyoung keeping you in check

Ten

oof

you know he’s that one bitch

one of the most annoying™ people you’ve known growing up

kind of distant to you while you were teens because of how hectic his life is

still doesn’t exempt his love for teasing you though

i mean,,, have you seen that one picture of ten casually taking a selfie as his mom scolds his sister right beside him,,, yeah

probably the type to wake you up saying you were late for school just to record you running around the house like a madman and going out the door just to realize its 4 am on a saturday

but you grew up watching his antics so you knew what not to do when you got older

as the both of you shifted to adulthood you got closer

ended up as you taking care of him and making sure he doesn’t accidentally get in trouble most of the time

still teases you playfully though

“no ten the market is this way jesus christ get off your phone”

“oho so you do care! if you care about me that much why don’t you pay for our meal—”

“go choke”

being ten’s sibling automatically makes you friends with johnny no ifs ors buts

ten brought him along to one of your hangout sessions without telling you beforehand and now he’s just,,, there

you don’t even bat an eye at him anymore

or the other members he brings along

probably tried to set you up with johnny more than once but the both of you have already caught on and are just playing along to amuse him

automatically makes you good friends with lisa too

lowkey doesn’t want to introduce bambam to you oops

is so subtly protective of you but lbr who could get intimidated by his 169 cm ass

like that time he caught jaemin glancing your way for a tad bit too long and he just gave him the look™

never likes the guys you hang out with

“that kind of guy doesn’t deserve you (y/n),,, you need someone gentlemanly, someone nice and tall like johnny-“

“if you like him that much why don’t you date him instead”

you may have grown up but in his eyes you’re still that little girl with pigtails he used to pull

older sibling ten is annoying but you love him anyway

Jaehyun

jaehyoOons

growing up with such an attractive brother was both a blessing and a curse

sure he was attractive and that itself was a plus point but then you had to deal with all the fakies that came at you just to get closer to your dorky older brother

not to mention the countless times he accompanied you somewhere or picked you up from school and heads would just turn

it got annoying at times but then you got used to it

now you just enjoy the perks of having such an attractive brother because honestly, who wouldn’t

not to mention good lucks are hereditary lucky you ;)))

good brother,, always follows your parents instructions so if anybody ever got in trouble it was you

if you were up to mischief and he found out he always covered for you,,, no exceptions even if he didn’t approve of whatever you were doing

the little sneak got good at lying from all the times he covered for you

always ALWAYS always there to comfort you whenever you had a bad day or if you were crying

not necessarily protective but still ready to give a little “warning” to whoever messes with you

talked to you a lot ever since you were children

by a lot i mean a lot

because he’s pretty shy at school when he was younger he makes up for it by discussing alien conspiracy theories with you

now that he’s opened up more it doesn’t mean that you both don’t enjoy a good conversation about whether or not mars had living beings

whenever you both had meals together or dinner with the family there wasn’t a moment where he didn’t steal your food

“food tastes the best when it’s on another person’s plate”

rly sneaky about it but you always notice

gets angry at you if you don’t take care of yourself properly

like the time he ignored all your messages and calls for two whole days cause he found out you consecutively skipped lunch and dinner

makes sure you have your priorities straight

older brother! jae is amazing lucky you

Winwin

whatta weirdo

ever since you were children he’s always been an oddball

clings to you wherever you go

even though he’s older than you sometimes it feels like you’re the older one who has to take care of him

honestly if it weren’t for you he probably wouldn’t have survived the first 15 years of his life

not to mention the multiple times you had to guide him whenever you were in malls or in a crowded marketplace just to make sure he doesn’t get lost or distracted

would fool around with you during family gatherings

inside jokes are a thing no ifs buts ors

whenever something reminds you of that inside joke you’d just look at each other from the other side of the room and make eye contact before smirking

all your other siblings are so done with you two,,, especially your parents

like the time the both of you attempted to bake a cake for fun and eggs ended up on the ceiling

don’t ask

it took all your willpower to stop winwin from burning the place down

when you guys finished you were covered in all sorts of ingredients and spend 15 minutes laughing about it

but you got closer thanks to that!!

even though winwin should not be allowed in the kitchen or near a stove anymore sometimes when you two hang out and want to reminisce you just start baking

always ends up in a mess but you two have fun anyway

as you two grew up there wouldn’t be much that changed

he texts you random korean words or phrases just to show you how much he’s been improving

actually convinced you to take up learning korean too

you would call him and talk to him in korean to practice and he would cheer you on or correct you if you got any words wrong

lowkey doesn’t want you to meet any of the nct members except for renjun lmao

would probably try to set you up with renjun,,,, but ended up as you two being rly good friends so it was a win/win situation ha ha

has actually had to fight yuta to make sure he did not get your number

“but if winwin is this cute then how cute could his sibling be??? come on pls”

you know all his embarrassing secrets,,, and always made sure to bring it up whenever he has members over

he would whine for you to be quiet about it and stop

older sibling! winwin is too lovable u are blessed

Jungwoo

s o f t

literally the best older brother you could ask for

took care of you so much when you were children

basically coddled you

fell down in the playground and scraped your knee? expect older brother jungwoo to run around finding a bandaid before putting it on your knee as he told you to be more careful

forgot lunch? jungwoo will 420 blaze it to your classroom and hand over his lunch saying that he’ll steal some food off of his friends

had arguments with you whether or not cow was spelt with a c or a k

someone made you cry? the moment you entered the house you’d just hug him and cry to his sweater

he’d just hug you back and tell you it’s okay while caressing your head

older brother jungwoo is soFT

he probably wouldn’t change as you got older

still coddled you nonstop 24/7/365

“its going to rain today don’t forget to bring your umbrella”

“yes mom”

soccer nights are a thing and tradition to never forget or break

you always wanting to meet nct and jungwoo chuckling nervously

“(y/n),,,, im not sure that’s a very good idea,,,”

you teasing him playfully

“I saw that new meme on instagram about you,,, can you try saying ‘skorret’ again”

“dO YoU havE JunGwOOiTis?”

“(y/n) pls stop”

“you know the general public and your members seem to have the image that you’re real soft i wonder if they know about the time where you-“

“ssssssshhhhhh”

but all is good because jungwoo loves you!! and you love him back don’t forget that