#i just didn’t expect it to be so soon.. like star rail is just entering its 2.x era

[lameow-l]

( he also says smth like “you might think im going to go to natlan next” before this i just didn’t take screenshots)

1) wtf liben?? somehow you’re smarter than all akademiya’s researchers and you’re here giving me primogems for fowl and 2 apples??

2) SO?? is our next adventure not in natlan but related to star rail?? maybe in the transitioning patch leading to natlan!!! are they gonna finally reveal traveler’s origin.. or maybe say that akivili once visited teyvat?? that the leylines are actually affected by a stellaron or a stellaron in itself

and since everyone is speculating (idk if it’s actual leaks) that natlan’s archon is a himeko, maybe it’s related to her and that her fate is to be a nameless or smth

like all im imagining is a synchronized patch between the two games that’s the exact same story but from different perspectives.. i mean genshin patch releases are only 7 days earlier than star rail (after they shortened 1.4 in hsr) and they both update on wednesdays

they could pull it off right?? riiiight?!

[saiqherrr]

.princess (a. todo)

.pairing aoi todo x fem!reader

.content warning smut, nsfw, praising kink, breeding kink, “princess” pet name, oral sex (f!receiving)

.synopsis todo just wanna make love to you dawg🤷

.a/n OKAY, i wrote this because for some reason nobody on this app wants to write a todo fic that doesn't mention his idol??? and when y'all don't include her it just don't hit so, i'm gonna come here and save the day.

.wc 2.1k

YOU TRIED TO FINISH TOSSING THE SALAD in the big, plastic bowl, however, you were distracted by big, tan hands lazily massaging your shoulders that later stroked your arms and eventually cupped your ass.

“todo quit it...” you half-jokingly urge him, yet a small smile rested on your face. you bit your lip as you felt yourself gradually becoming aroused by his sensual touch. he didn’t stop, his hands rubbing one cheek before sliding his finger in between your panties. he had easy access, being that you were only wearing one of his big t-shirts, underwear, and ankle socks. his finger brushed over your outer lips, causing your breath to hitch.

you sighed heavily, realizing there was no telling todo “no” right now and you softly giggled. you pushed the bowl to the side and out of the way before turning around to face the tall, incredibly buff man in front of you. he looked down at you, giving you a lewd smirk. you returned a smirk that wasn’t any less naughty.

“have your way with me, todo,” a phrase you both agreed upon that gives him the “go”. todo expressed that he was super serious about consent and you both came up with safe words the first night the two of you made love. he wanted to cherish you and protect you.

you could never forget that night. he kissed every last inch of your body, from your head to your toes. he took care of you with fastidious consideration, for he was highly aware that he was a big guy (and his length certainly lived up to your expectations). he fucked you so good. so good that you swore you saw stars. he took care of you afterward, rinsing you in the shower before giving you a warm bath, massaging your back and feet, chasing away all the strain that devilishly rested in the interior of your body. 

once he heard those six words, he started to pull your panties down and you subsequently stepped out of them once they reached your ankles. you kicked them to the side before todo placed his hands on your hips. he picks you up and sets you on top of the counter, pushing your shirt up barely enough with the goal that he could get a nice view of your cunt. you spread your legs more extensive and he upheld them, holding them up by your thighs. you supported your upper body with one arm leaning on the counter, while the other ghosted over your cunt before slowly rubbing your clit.

todo bit his bottom lip at the sight. you kept your eyes on him as he kept his eyes glued to your hand, mesmerized by the way you scoured your sensitive pearl in circular motions. you tilted your head back a bit, small breaths slipping from your mouth once your lips parted.

“you look so pretty touching yourself like that, princess. such a good girl, my good girl,” he commends with a sensual tone. you grin widely hearing his praise. while you were still pleasing your clit, he leans down and kisses your inner thighs on each side. sometimes he got too carried away in one spot for too long and started sucking on it, leaving trails of love marks along your inner thighs. pleasing yourself could only go on for so long. you couldn’t push yourself enough to bring yourself to an orgasm, naturally pulling your hand away when you were getting so close.

and todo knows this. so he moves your hand away from your swollen cunt and replaces it with his thin lips, sucking on it feverishly, earning a couple of sweet moans from you. the hand that wasn’t holding you up was wrestling with the hair tie in his hair, pulling it off so that you could run your fingers through his loose, tangled curls. he dragged his tongue over your opening before giving it quick, kitten licks. your hand desperately gripped his hair, closing your eyes and wincing when his tongue came in contact with your core. he gave you this feeling that was so intoxicating, so fucking addictive, you swore you couldn’t live without it. his cool tongue goes back and forth between licking and sucking your clit while a finger teases your entrance. your cunt clenched around his finger in an attempt to feel more, get more. your moans gradually become louder, more pleasurable, your whiny voice was that of a beautiful song to todo’s ears. he hums with amusement against your warm, drooling pussy, feeling every vibration settle in your thighs.

“it-it feels so good, todo, fuck...” you manage to utter the words as you were steadily approaching your first climax. “fuck!” you squeal as your body flinches when he unexpectedly is sliding a second digit into your pulsating cunt. your slick glazed his fingers as a result, leaving them glistening like a gossamer. the moment he curls his fingers, you lose it.

the arm that was holding you up gave out on you, but to your luck, todo’s reflexes are sharp, dropping one of your legs to then occupy his hand with your back. your stomach folded into rolls as you watched the way he feasted on your pussy like it was his last meal while simultaneously satisfying your needy hole.

“’ gonna -mmph, fuck! - cum...” you mutter in a broken voice, suspended by lascivious moans.

“cum for me then, princess. no one is stopping you, love,” he exhorts you with sweet, erotic words. they were the icing on the cake, fully sending you over the edge before you saw white.

your eyes roll into the back of your head, your eyelids flitting frantically as you felt your release all through your body. the release stupefies your body from the waist down while it convulses from the fast-spreading sensation. your juices were obscenely seeping onto the kitchen counter. todo’s head lifts while he continues to finger-fuck you through your orgasm, watching you with keen eyes. you’re able to catch a nimble glimpse of his handsome face, his lips wet from his saliva and your juices. the bottom of his face was so doused that it was dripping from his sharp chin. you came right onto his thick fingers and he bites his lip when he feels the warm liquid running down his fingers. his other hand was still supporting your back until you finally find the strength to push yourself up with your arm again, breathing heavily. he slides his fingers out of your gaping cunt and brings it to his mouth. he cleans your messy, sticking release off of his fingers with his tongue and you lazily watch through limited eyes.

“you taste so good,” he mumbles before he’s leaning in to kiss your plump lips. you taste some residue of your release on his lips, humming as you slide your tongue into his mouth. he breaks away before the kiss gets any deeper and hoists your weak, recovering body onto his waist, and carries you to the living room.

he lays you on your back on the couch, your head resting on the armrest, legs instinctively spreading open. he loved how ready you always were for him, always anticipating your movements. the two of you loved a certain way, a way in which there was no need for verbal communication to exchange thoughts with one another. you both just knew.

todo runs his hand through his chaotic hair before he takes off his sweatpants, an undeniable bulge in his boxers. he rubs himself through the cotton, hissing sharply as he admired how you were laid out with your legs spread, juices running down your pink pussy. he takes off his boxers swiftly before getting onto the couch on his knees, situating himself in front of your entrance. the heat of his shaft emitted as it hovered over your pussy. he slapped his tip teasingly against it a couple of times, pulling a couple of whimpers from you.

he leans down, burying his head in the crook of your neck before he passionately sucked on your neck in all of your sweet spots. he kept you distracted with the sensitive feelings on your neck while he slowly was stretching your hole as he entered you. tension in your thighs increased once you felt each inch of his dick pushing into you. he went slow, as always, for no matter how aroused you were, you were never loose enough for his girth. he pushed in so deep that the tip of his veiny cock kissed your cervix before he pulls out, lifting his head to look down at his length coated in your juices. he comes back into you a little faster than before, inducing you to yelp, the stretch burning. he strives to take his time with you, but sometimes he has to move with a little more urgency.

as he began to go at a steady, uniform pace, you reach out and hold onto his bicep, wincing as the discomfort doesn't go unnoticed. it soon wanes when your walls adapted to his length. he picks up his pace, his hips pulling back only to be yanked forwards again, right back to you like a magnet. he groans, his mouth gaping and his eyes closing as he feels your gummy walls milking his cock so well. he takes your leg and boosts it up to let your plushy thighs press against his chest. his other hand is pressed firmly against your stomach before it starts inching closer and closer to your chest, groping your breasts lovingly as he rails into you. he continues to plummet into your heat, sinking inside of you each time, muttering praises just loud enough so you could hear.

“you take me so well, baby...” he groans as he closes his eyes, letting his head fall back a bit, but his pace never falters. in fact, he goes faster, moving the couch you were laying on underneath you with each thrust that he delivered to your cunt. each time he came out, your walls just sucked him back in. he was overwhelmed, falling in love with your perfect pussy all over again. the sound of the couch creaking was drowned out by your whimpers and moans and the clap of your skin hitting each other. “you’re so good to me, y/n.”

he leans down, crashing his lips into yours. the kiss was slightly sloppy, teeth meeting occasionally as both of your tongues frantically searched around each other’s mouths. your moans were muted by the kiss and you were only able to breathe spasmodically through your nose as your second climax was approaching.

his climax was reaching him, too. he breaks away from the kiss, still staying considerably close to your face. “you want me to cum in you?”

you babbled incoherent words that he could barely make out, chuckling at how undone you were. you were so out of it and, oh, was it a sight to see. one eye was shut while the other was just hardly opening, your eyeball rolling around as he fucked you senseless.

“use your words, princess...” his pace slowed down a little but the strokes came twice as harder. he repeats his question. “do you want me to cum in this pretty pussy?”

you nod your head desperately, biting on your lip and your eyebrows furrowed as you felt your body tingling with immense pleasure. “p-please fill me u-” you were cut off by your second orgasm, going lightheaded and feeling that numbing sensation again. your thighs shake violently against him and your back involuntarily arches, head angling back. you let out what sounds like a cry, an inaudible plead as you release, cumming on his throbbing cock. your toes curl and you rub your feet together as if to ease the overwhelming feeling. he groans as he feels your warm juices smearing his cock. you find the strength to give him a proper answer to his question, gulping before you do. “fill me up, baby...please.”

“i will, baby, i will.” the promise pulls a moan out of you. “i’m gonna fill this pretty pussy with my cum, princess. you’re gonna keep all of it in, right?”

you feel tipsy, intoxicated by his cock as he fucked you through your orgasm, struggling to form a response. “yes,” you whimpered. “yes, yes, yes, please...”

he doesn’t hesitate to do as he promised, his cock twitching inside of you before multiple groans escape his lips. his hips stutter and his pace becomes lazy and arrhythmic as he finally fills you to the brim with his cum, painting your walls white. you can see his stomach clenching and his bicep (that you were gripping so hard) was tensing up as he slows down before coming to a full halt, panting heavily. sweat covered the expanse of his forehead and he lets your lifted leg fall on the side of him as he takes his hand and wipes the sweat off with the back of his hand.

he leans down to give you a calm, sweet kiss, another one for you to savor, cherish and remember whenever you laid eyes on him.

[ofstarsandvibranium]

Swipe Right

Fandom: Marvel

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x F!Reader

Summary: Bucky has been your neighbor for a few months now, so he likes to think you two are friends. Which is why he thinks you're the best person to go to to help him get back into the dating scene.

AN: inspired by one line of dialogue from the first ep of Falcon and the Winter Soldier. lol also, FALCON AND THE WINTER SOLDIER EP 1 SPOILERS!

Bucky felt lost. Well, he's always felt lost ever since he suddenly came back along with have of the world's population. He was pardoned by the government and now a civilian. He was going through therapy to deal with his 70+ years worth of trauma and trying to navigate his way through the modern world. Everything was new and exciting but also overwhelming and exhausting.

His therapist encouraged him to date and make friends. So that's what he did, or at least, tried to do.

He considers you a friend. You live in the apartment right beside him, gave him a friendly smile and helping hand when he first moved in. You two chatted when you'd run into each other in the hall or in the laundry room. You were nice, attractive, funny. He honestly thought about asking you out a few times, but you were his friend, his only friend it seems. So he couldn't ruin that. Therefore, he resorted to online dating.

He signed up to a bunch of dating websites and apps: eharmony, match.com, plentyoffish, tinder-SO MANY. Why are there so many dating apps?!

He's scrolling through his phone, so overwhelmed by the different pictures and information. What does DTF mean???

He scowls, tossing his phone onto a pile of dry laundry he should be folding. You enter the laundry room with a chuckle, "Everything alright?"

He glances over his shoulder and sees you. He immediately smiles and faces you, "Hey, um, yeah," he gestures to his phone, "Just, um..." he lets out a sigh and asks, "Do you know anything about dating?"

You look at him curiously and reply, "A little. Why? What's up?"

"I'm just," he nervously scratches his head and places his hands on his hips, "I'm trying this online dating thing and it's...a lot."

You can't help but snort, "I feel ya," you give him a reassuring smile despite your heart dropping to your stomach, "So, uh, what sites or apps are you on?"

"Um...all of them?"

You snort again, "No way. Let me see your phone." you hold out your open palm to him and he places his phone into your hands after unlocking it. You swipe through his apps and your brows shoot up to your hairline, "Well it's not all of them , but it's definitely a lot." you look up from the phone to Bucky, "Can I give some advice?"

"Please, I'll take anything you can give me," he replies desperately.

You hop onto the washing machine and hold up his phone, "Okay. These apps are usually for the older crowd. Like thirty five and up, so if you're not picky about age, feel free to keep these. Now, these apps are what the younger generations use. Tinder is usually for hook ups, one night stands and all that. Not many people take Tinder seriously. Bumble, is a level up from Tinder. You'll find people who are more serious about finding a relationship with also a mix of people looking for something casual. Hinge, I think, is a level up from Bumble. You don't see people's typical lame ass bios, but their answers to some fun questions, what kind of relationship they're looking for, if they smoke or do drugs, etc. Also, I'm not sure if you know this, but you can change the age range on all of these apps. So instead of having it from 18 to 50, you can narrow it so 25 to 35 or however you want."

You look at Bucky and see his brows are furrowed in...concentration? Confusion?

"Was that too much? Do I need to slow down?"

He shook his head, "No, no, that's not it. Um, thanks, Y/N," he shoots you a grateful grin and you smile back, "No problem, Bucky." You see the gears turning in his head and you ask a question, he might be scared to ask you, "Do you want me to help you find some potential dates?"

"Will you?" he asks in that same desperate tone from earlier.

Again, you put on a smile, despite your breaking heart, "Sure!"

You tap on Hinge, double checking on his preferences, and then going to the main page.

"Oh! Look here. She's a single mom, but she's also a nurse. On the weekends, you're most likely going to find her wine drunk and watching movies with her kids. She has pets. She'd like to have more kids some day. She sounds nice. How 'bout it, Bucky?"

"Sure. She-She sounds good."

"Cool! So you tap on the heart on whatever thing on her page. So let's like her....answer here. If you want, you can comment something, but if not, you just forward it and hope to see that she'll like you back and you can start messaging her! Also, it looks like some people already like you! So you just tap on this icon here and you can scroll through the different people who've liked something on your page and it's up to you if you want to make contact or not."

Bucky hums and plucks his phone from your hands, "Wow. This-Thanks Y/N. This really helped."

"No problem, Buck! If you ever need more help, just let me know!" you hop off the washer and proceed to start up a load of laundry. You mind running back and forth about how you should shoot your shot, but you were too afraid of ruining the friendship you and Bucky have.

______________________

Bucky: Hey

You: What's up?

Bucky: can you come over? I need more help with this online dating situation.

You: sure!

You let your phone fall to your side with a sigh, Bucky has been asking for your help with his online dating for two weeks now and while you're always happy to help him, it just sucks seeing someone get his attention that you wish you had.

You roll out of bed, not caring about how you looked and exit your apartment, knocking on Bucky's door.

He swings open to reveal him in a tight blue henley and some black jeans, "Hey!" he shoots you a grin and moves aside to let you in, "So, um, this girl, Janine. We've been messaging for a few days now and she wants to meet up. Is that too soon? And where should I take her? I've," he pauses to chuckle to himself, "I haven't dated since the forties so..."

Despite your feelings for him, you knew Bucky deserved to be happy, especially after all the shit he's gone through.

"Hm, well, what kind of vibes are you getting from her?"

"Vibes?"

"Yeah, um, what feelings do you get when you talk to her? Do you feel happy? Do you want to get to know her more?"

"Uh, yeah, I suppose so. I think it'd be nice to meet her in person and get to know her more face to face."

"Then yeah, take her out. But since it's your first time meeting her in person, it should be something casual. Low key, no pressure. A decent restaurant or a bar is probably best."

Bucky nods, "Yeah. Okay. Um, do you think you could help me pick something out?"

You can't help but laugh, "Bucky, I'm sure whatever you choose to wear, you'll be fine."

"Okay. Thanks, Y/N," he slowly wraps his arms around you for a hug, but not too tight in case you're uncomfortable. You surprise him by hugging him back, giving him a little squeeze, "You're welcome, Bucky."

It was Saturday and you didn't have work. You friends asked you to hangout with them, but you didn't want to. You wanted to stay holed up in your apartment, wallowing because Bucky would be going on his date with Janine tonight.

You're mindlessly watching tv , curled up on the couch. You turn your face into the pillow and scream in frustration. You should've just asked him out when you had the chance, but now that chance is gone.

You groan as you roll off the couch and head to your balcony. You just need some fresh air. You push up your window and climb onto the metal balcony. You sit on the outdoor chair you have there and stare up into the night sky. The stars are twinkling, the moon is shining. It looks like a perfect night for a date and here you are, alone.

"Hey-"

"AAAHHH!" you scream by the sudden appearance of Bucky on his own balcony. You're staring at him wide eyed, hand on your chest.

Bucky couldn't help but laugh at your expression, "Sorry."

You shake your head and stand to meet him, "It's fine. What're you doing here? I thought you were on your date."

"Yeah, uh, turns out Janine didn't, what phrase did you use once, pass the vibe check?"

You snort, covering your mouth as you giggled. Bucky's smile grows at the sound and you pull yourself together, "Um, yeah that's it. But I'm sorry."

He shrugs, leaning against the railing, "Honestly, it's okay. I don't think the online dating thing is really for me. I think I'll probably stick to the old fashion way: meeting in person and asking them out on a date."

"That's understandable," you say with a nod.

"So how 'bout it?"

You look at him confused, "How 'bout what?"

"Do you wanna go on a date sometime?" you give a look of surprise and Bucky immediately adds, "But I totally understand if you don't want to. I just-you're nice, and beautiful, and funny I thought maybe-but we're friends so I totally understand if you don't-"

"No, no. Bucky, I just-I'd love to go on a date with you."

"Yeah?" You nod and he holds out his hand, "Come on then."

You give a nervous chuckle, "What?"

"I picked up a pizza after that disastrous date. We can eat and watch a movie. Casual and no pressure, right?"

You look from his striking blue eyes to his outstretched glove hand. You reach out to place your hand in his but then pull back, "Wait. I should probably change."

You step back to head back into your apartment, but Bucky grabs your hand, "You don't have to. You look great."

You chuckle and begin to climb from your railing to Bucky's, with his help, "Alright, Prince Charming. I expect to be wooed tonight."

"Of course you do, which is why I ordered pizza from your favorite place and I'm letting you pick the movie we watch."

"Bucky Barnes, I could kiss you!" you exclaim thoughtlessly but then you realized what you just said. You shook your head and began to ramble off excuses, "No no! I mean not now! Now that I don't want to kiss you. You're very kissable. Not that I imagine kissing you or anything it's just-"

Bucky leans in and gives you a little peck on the cheek, "I don't kiss until after the date's over, doll. So will that suffice for now?"

You could feel your cheeks heating up as you nodded and squeaked out, "Yup!"

He chuckled, taking your hand in his again and leading you to the couch where the pizza was waiting for you.

[ellewords]

atsumu was like the sun. he shined and glowed and warmed people just by being near them. without a single thought, he was able to brighten the mood in ways that no one else could. even on his darker days or when his being felt too harsh, he left an impact that made everyone long for more. you couldn’t always see him, couldn’t always feel his presence, but that didn’t mean he wasn’t there somehow, unseen but known.

by association, that sort of made you the moon. you could shine brightly and leave a warm glow and comfort others when they felt like they were in the dark. but all of that wasn’t possible without the sun. without atsumu.

people didn’t know you unless you were by atsumu’s side. they didn’t spare you a glance until atsumu brought attention to you. but you didn’t mind. all you wanted was to have him by your side, to support you when you couldn’t hold yourself up, to be brilliant beside him even if you would never outshine him. you were content in your current situation.

so why did it hurt so much seeing him continue to shine? why did his warmth suddenly feel so cold? why couldn’t you be as bright as him all on your own?

or, atsumu will always be the sun, you always the moon. maybe now it’s time to accept that you’re nothing without him so you can finally shine for yourself.

-💛

—  from elle ! 💛anon you never miss, do you? aaaa this was so good it lived in my head rent free ever since i first read it >_< i just had to write an addition to this for the way you made my heart actually ache. i hope i did your drabble justice :<< this just hit a lil too close to home ngl thank you for reading everyone, i hope you like this! reblogs are appreciated, they help a ton <3

fic notes / warnings : timeskip!miya atsumu x gn!reader, angst, fluff (-ish? kinda) ending, oneshot, wc: ~1.52k (!! my longest margins addition so far omg)

᠃ ⚘᠂ ⚘ ˚ ⚘ ᠂ ⚘ ᠃

atsumu has a gravitational pull, that much has always been clear to you and everyone else; a pull so strong that you can’t help but orbit around him. every room he walks into, he commands the attention of everyone present. one can’t help but simply be drawn to him — with his bright smiles, boisterous laughs, and larger than life movements. it’s no wonder why everything seems to bend to his will, how the universe seems to revolve around him. 

you’ve moved around him for as long as you can remember, every now and then, he lets you borrow his light. the world has associated you with him and you don’t blame anyone one bit. 

his name has always come first. setter for the inarizaki volleyball team, miya atsumu. invited to the all-japan youth intensive training camp, miya atsumu. captain of the inarizaki volleyball team, miya atsumu. setter for division one volleyball team, the msby black jackals, miya atsumu.  

meanwhile, yours is treated as an afterthought, an attachment, a footnote in the awe-inspiring narrative of his life. you’re known as his childhood friend. his best friend, the one who cheers him on from the stands in every single one of his games. alleged significant other, according to whispers in the hallway and to the tabloids and paparazzi. his eventual confirmed significant other, ln yn. 

atsumu and who’s that with him? atsumu and his best friend. atsumu and his significant other. atsumu, oh, and yn’s here too. it’s always atsumu before yn; his name before yours. sometimes, you wonder if anyone would know your name if he hadn’t started dating you.    

you walk behind atsumu, not beside him, when you enter a room. fingertips loosely intertwined with his, you attempt to keep your head up as atsumu introduces you around. they spare you a quick “hi”, before beginning a conversation with your sun. 

though he’s not really your sun, is he? you’ve always had to share him with everyone else. everyone needs a little sunshine in their life, a little warmth; his brilliance is dazzling, like everyone else, you revelled in his glow. 

the world has always associated you with him, but it never worked the other way around. atsumu has always shined on his own; you needed him to have light for yourself. 

~

no one blames the sun for burning a little too bright; it’s simply the way it is. similarly, you’ve never blamed atsumu for being the way he is. he doesn’t know, didn’t mean to do it in the first place. atsumu has always existed for himself, lived life the way he sees fit.

you can’t blame him, no matter how much you wanted to. even if you forced yourself to. 

staring at the sun is fascinating, but do it long enough and it starts to hurt. the warmth is no longer comforting, but harsh and prickly. the light is no longer magical and dazzling, but blinding and terrifying. it took some time, but you eventually convinced yourself to look away. 

“ya sure ya wanna do this?” atsumu asked, immediately recognizing your hesitance. he doesn’t want to break up, he wants you to take your words back, he wants you to tell him that this was all just some sick prank. but right now, it doesn’t matter what he wants. what matters is how you feel, the emotions he didn’t realize you had been feeling. 

“no…” you mumbled. the intensity of his gaze makes your knees buckle, but you stand your ground. even in the chilling darkness of his living room, he radiates light and understanding, making everything all the more difficult. you bite the inside of your cheek, letting a few beats pass before your next words, “but i have to.”

“i believe in you,” atsumu nodded, stuffing his hands in the pocket of his jeans. he lets out a quiet exhale, eyes gazing on the suitcases in your hand, “yer gonna do so many amazin’ things.”

your grip on the bag’s handle tightened. it was the end of an era, one that you didn’t expect would be ending at all. but it had to be done. for the first time since you met atsumu, you finally began to think of yourself. a small smile plays on your lips, hoping that he picks up on the pure gratefulness of your tone, “thank you for lending me your light.”

his reply would play in a loop in your mind. even in a breakup, the darkest the night has ever been, atsumu offers you a little bit of light. as expected from the sun.  

~

the moon goes through several phases. some days are better than others. it’s a wave of several highs and lows, but you grow to understand that’s how things are. on some nights it’s as invisible as they come, the clouds blocking out what little light it already produced. though it glowed on other nights, you often feel like nothing has changed. but you learn to trust the process either way. 

gazing at the moon is calming, not dazzling and exceptional, but calming. it provides peace, serenity. you often gazed at the moon, especially on the nights where you could only toss and turn. a cold breeze would blow past you and send shivers down your spine, painting your bare skin with several goosebumps. leaning on the balcony railing and taking in the sounds of a city that barely slept makes you think of him. 

you miss the sun; you miss your sun. you miss his presence and the warmth he brings you. atsumu checks in every now and then, asking how you’re doing and wondering if you’d ever want to meet for a cup of coffee. you’ve never accepted any of his offers for fear of only getting pulled back in. 

you’ve never realized that you always had a gravitational pull of your own. atsumu spends most of his nights gazing at the moon. when his heart raced and his mind buzzed, the moon brought him tranquility — as did you, his anchor. 

[ miya atsumu ] : the night sky is nice tonight, it makes me think of you. i like that we’re always looking at the same one. 

[ miya atsumu ] : i hope you’re doing okay.

he’s right, the night sky does look nice. the moon is full and shining the brightest you’ve ever seen it shine. gleaming, enchanting, and breathtaking doesn’t seem to do its beauty any justice. perhaps the poets and artists had been right all along, the moon is the perfect muse. your thoughts almost convince you that its light isn’t artificial. but twinkling beside the moon are the stars, shimmering high above the world you know, their light completely their own.   

you’re not okay. being the moon may not be too bad, but you’ve already realized that you want to be amongst the stars as one. 

~

days turn into weeks, and eventually months. sometimes they blend together when nothing of interest or importance happens, though you strive for events that are worth remembering. you’ve found a job that you actually like, one that you truly excelled at. you’ve started to put yourself out there, to meet people that pushed you to be better than you had been the day before. slowly but surely, you began to create your own light.

some days your light faltered, some days are dimmer than others, but it was a light of your own. it’s one that didn’t need another’s glow to exist. soon enough, you find yourself accepting one of atsumu’s many offers for a cup of coffee.

he’s now brighter than ever. setter for division one volleyball team, the msby black jackals, miya atsumu, has turned into setter for japan’s olympic team, miya atsumu. his radiance is as blinding as ever, the largest grin on his face as he waves his hand out the second he caught sight of you.   

but you’re brighter now too, weaving through the cafe tables with your head up high. you’re more sure of yourself, standing taller, making each step towards him with purpose. you’ve lost the tension in your shoulders, the weight that built in your chest. and atsumu notices it too.  

“you’ve changed.” he smiles, much softer than you’re used to. his gaze is fond as you settle in the seat in front of him.  

“i know,” you reply, the corners of your lips twitching upwards, “but thank you for lending me your light.”

atsumu’s smile remains that same soft one that you’re not used to as he recognizes your words almost immediately. he leans back in his seat, gesturing a hand to you, “never gave ya anythin’, this is all you.”

he replies with the same words he said several months ago, the latter half of the sentence being the only addition. warmth fills your chest as he never lost a single ounce of sincerity. the only difference? this time you actually believe him. 

atsumu may still be the sun, but you’ve become a star in your own right; you no longer need him to shine. maybe someday you’ll shine bright enough to allow yourself to exist beside him. but for now, this is enough. 

᠃ ⚘᠂ ⚘ ˚ ⚘ ᠂ ⚘ ᠃

send me a hc / or a scenario ! <3 |  written on the margins masterlist

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[majesticarlette]

Could you please write Zoe Lee x Famous Singer Reader where Reader was Zoe’s only friend in New York and then Reader moves to Paris for concerts and to be with Zoe?

my apologies if requests are closed or if you don’t want to write this

Impulse

Zoé Lee x Reader | ONE SHOT 🌷

"I heard that (Y/n) (L/n) is here in Paris."

"No way, the (Y/n) (L/n) who has 2 successful albums?"

"You're stating the obvious, but that's them!" People could be heard fussing about the singer. Well, who wouldn't be excited when a famous person could be a few meters away from you? Your appearance in Paris isn't what you really thought about or even your goal to begin with. You're here because of someone you knew for a long time, and you can't wait to meet her again.

"We're here, let's go. We have a hotel reservation at 3:00 this afternoon, we can't be late." Your manager said while picking up her things. Your bodyguard on the other hand is already holding your bags. "Thank you." You smiled at him and faced your manager. "What time is it, Bellum?" "It's already 1:40." He responded after looking at his watch. You left the airport after double checking your things and head straight to the popular hotel in the city, Le Grand Paris.

You told the hotel staffs that you don't want anyone to know you're staying there. You want to keep your stay lowkey as possible until the days nearing the concert. Well, you went there ahead of time, not following the schedule designed for you. After your team finalized your world tour, according to them: Paris, France would be the last destination. You were ecstatic about the news, and couldn't wait to visit. So, as soon as you finished the recent concert, you flew all the way to Paris.

Once you reached your destination, your manager checked in for you while you stayed in the car. He came to pick you up after and you went to your room. "Finally, a bed." You flopped on the bed and it was so comfortable to the point of falling asleep in a span of minutes. "What's on the schedule today?" You faced your manager. "Wow, that's a first." He fixed his glasses and looked at his tablet. "Fortunately your schedule is not loaded for the day--" "I'm going outside." You quickly responded. "Are you going to meet, Ms. Zoé?" "Duh." He turned around after you started undressing yourself to fit new set of clothes. "That's why you're in a hurry of coming here." "Come on, she's your friend too. Aren't you excited to meet her too?" You started putting on your bottoms and shoes. "I am, it's just that it's not professional to act impulsively about coming here when you have a loaded schedule on your last destination. I had to fake your sickness for you to come here." You tapped his shoulder and he finally turned to you. "And that's why I love you. I'm gonna get going, do not follow me." You're in a disguise and left the room.

While looking around Paris, you stopped at a bakery to try their baked goods. "Hello, would you like to take an order?" A dark haired girl greeted you on the other side of the counter. "Hello, I'm new here. Do you recommend anything?" "All of our baked goods are delicious, but the best selling here are our macarons." "I'll take a box." She prepared your order but when she's about to hand it to you she stopped for a moment she must have noticed something. "That bracelet... Are you (Y/n)?" "Pssh... No, I'm not." You chuckled nervously. "It is you!" "Shh!" You stopped her cheers of excitement by placing your pointer finger on her lips. She's calming her self down but it doesn't seem to be working.

"You should come with me! I'll take you somewhere!" She uttered suddenly which made you step back a bit. She noticed her words and tried to explain. "I-I mean, I'm inviting you to a get together, 'cause my friends will perform their song at Liberty this evening. You'll enjoy it for sure." "Liberty?" You asked, confused by her response at you. You were startled when she face palmed herself hard. "What am I doing?! They have a busy schedule!" She started talking to herself which disturbed you a little bit. "Hey, what's Liberty?" You spoke trying to break her out of her rambling state. "Well, it's a name of a boat my two friends live in. They're into music, so there are music performances on the boat quite often."

Well, there's no harm in joining a get together. But, you're just new here, no one would know what might happen. Also, her invite seems legit, it must be nice to party on a boat while there's live music. Eh, you're still not so sure. What if she'll trick you into coming on a secluded area and take your organs? Now, you finally made up your mind.

"I'm totally going."

"Come on, Bell. I'll only be there for a couple of hours." You begged your manager to let you go. "Nuh uh." "Puh-leaaaase?" "Nope." "I promise, this'll be a one time thing." You gave him a puppy-eyed look while crossing your two fingers at the back. "Okay, I've made up my mind." Your eyes lit up and smiled at him. "No, you can't go." He smiled at you which made your smile drop. You flopped on the bed and sulk. Bellum chuckled at your reaction, "Alright you can go, bring Ollie with you." You got off the bed and prepared your things and left the room.

"(Y/n)!" Marinette called from the ship. Her friends quickly looked at your direction and gasp. "Hi." You entered the ship nervously, you're expecting a lot of touching and autographs but they never came. You were only greeted by smiles and handshakes welcoming you to Paris. But somehow, you could sense they wanted to really bad. "Uhm... Do you want me to sign you autographs?" You offered a bit embarrassed. They all nodded their head, they immediately handed you their owned albums you made. "You know, we really wanted you to sign our albums but it might overwhelm you." The girl named Mylène told you. "Hey, it's okay, I just dislike it when people rush up to me and they'll point their phones close to my face, and pulling of my clothes and limbs. You finished signing their albums and offered to take a group photo.

"(Y/n)?"

You looked at the direction of the voice and saw the person you're looking for, Zoé. "Zoé!" You hugged her and she returned it back. "Who knew the new girl would be friends with an international star?" The girl named Alya commented and they just smiled.

"1, 2, 3!" The drummer counts and Rose sang their debut song. The song was great and catchy, she's really telling everyone she loves unicorns. "So, why are you here in Paris so early? Isn't your concert will be in three days?" Zoé asked you. "Well, I missed you, of course. When you left New York, I began to miss our time together." Zoé chuckled at your response. "That sounds childish." "I'm serious, you were my only friend in New York, Zo." You held her hand and smiled at her. You swear you could see her cheeks tinted in pink.

"(Y/n), sing!" Marinette and her friends asked you to sing your songs but you promised you'll only sing one and keep the others for your concert. Bellum would scold you for sure if he heard that. Everyone cheers at you and admire your voice. "She is real." Juleka uttered "What did you expect? An illusion?" The others laughed at Alya's comment.

You swore that was the best night of your life, thank goodness you agreed to go.

You spent the remaining days before your concert with Zoé touring Paris. You're always in a disguise so not so many people would recognize you. You also left your bracelet at the hotel, you didn't know you could be recognized by that. "I'm glad I could be here with you in Paris." Zoé spoke while leaning on the railings on the top of the Eiffel tower. "Are you not going back to New York?" "I may not be, I found my comfort here in Paris. I met new friends and I could express myself freely." She smiled while gazing at the night view from up there. You could see that she's happy here than when she was in New York.

You smiled sadly, you never saw her this happy. You only have a limited time here in Paris and it's not enough for you. At this moment, you're desiring to be with her and stay by her side. You always knew your feelings for her ever since you became her friend but you didn't want to confess because you're afraid that it might cost your friendship. But you're not that (Y/n) anymore, you've waited for so long of keeping your feelings to yourself. Now that you've met again, it's time for you to tell it.

"Zoé." You spoke breaking the silence. "Yes?" she looked at you, waiting for your response. "I wanna confess something, I've been waiting to say this for a long time and I think it's time. Zoé, I like you. Not just as a friend but more than that. I wanna fulfill our dreams here in Paris, together." You held her hands as she just looked at you. "You mean, you're going to move here?" You nodded at her as an answer. She let go from your hold and just stared at you. "(Y/n), I've known you for a long time. I know you want to fulfill your dream as a successful singer who is known in the whole wide world." She rested her elbows on the railings and gestured the round world. You're just listening to her, confused at what she's saying. "And, you staying here in Paris isn't enough. I came here to be with my family, I had a desire and a goal to win their hearts but it didn't go my way. Instead, I found a new purpose. To be myself, not pretending anymore." She looked at you. "You, you started building your dreams in New York. You're just starting yet, you may say that you're already there, but it's not over yet. My point is, I don't want you to move all the way here just because of me." She pointed out. "I want you to move here because you planned to, you loved to, and you settled to be."

"I really want to, I promise." You replied and she just shook her head. "No, please reconsider. Now is not the right time." She cupped your cheeks. "What about my feelings for you, is that also rejected?" She just chuckled and pinched your cheeks. "I'll wait for you here, so don't pursue another person." She giggled and let go of your cheeks. "I'm kidding, you can date whoever you want, but I'll be here waiting for your return." You pouted from her answer. "I won't do that, you're the only one I'm going to pursue no matter how long it takes." You declared surely of your answer. You took something from your pocket, "This is a necklace my mother gave to me. When I get back here permanently I'll retrieve it from you." She smiled and hug you.

You both went home that time, you walked her to her room and then you finally entered your own room. You flopped on the bed and waited for tomorrow's event. You slept soundly that night, might be the most memorable night that happened here in Paris, and of course in your life.

You could spot Marinette and her friends in the audience while you were performing on stage. They were all shouting and admiring you from their spots. You waved at them which made the crowd shout louder. Of course, you wouldn't forget about your crush. You spotted her along with her family in the VIP seats.

You performed all of your songs and mentioned special people you met here in Paris. You swore you could see the gang's faces proud and happy. The experience as always was fun but never thought you'd meet new friends here. You swore you'll get back here as soon as possible, so have to give your all.

"Thank you all for coming here." You told the whole gang. "No, thank you and your bodyguard for letting us personally bid a celebrity goodbye." Nino responded and you just smiled. "Hug?" You offered and they all accepted. "Wow, I'm really waiting for this, I can't hug you at first because I know you'll get uncomfortable." Rose spoke and get to be the first to hug you and the rest follows. "These camera flashes are literally blinding me." Alya commented while covering her eyes, meanwhile Chloé's posing in front of the cameras. Yep, Chloé's here. "(Y/n), let's go. We don't wanna be late." Bellum suddenly spoke which breaks your conversation with the group. "I'll see you all soon." You waved them goodbye, you noticed Zoé discreetly giving you a flying kiss. You smiled at her and finally entering the terminal area.

"You finally told Zoé, huh?" Bellum spoke to you.

"I'm glad I did." You scrunched your nose at him.

[an-obsessed-writer]

Mind Over Matter

Summary: Everyone knew the Baron Helmut Zemo, you’d have to be living under a rock to not recognize the name of the ridiculously wealthy royal attending your university. He was the school’s top bachelor, a sophisticated and confident man who obviously was wealthy. That was enough to make any woman at the university swoon, but he was always known to never keep a girl for long. What happens when (Y/N) finds herself meeting him at one of his parties?

(A/N): i think i’ll turn this into a series, but not sure yet! im a whore for zemo rn as everyone is, let me know if you’re interested in reading more <3

Word Count: 2.2k

“(Y/N)!” Wanda plops onto your bed after she runs into the dorm, and smiles sweetly up at you. “Wanna go to a party tonight? Word has it that Zemo is throwing a major bash for the new school year.”

Everyone knew the Baron Helmut Zemo, you’d have to be living under a rock to not recognize the name of the ridiculously wealthy royal attending your university. He was the school’s top bachelor, a sophisticated and confident man who obviously was wealthy. That was enough to make any woman at the university swoon, but he was always known to never keep a girl for long. Fortunately, you didn’t live under a rock, just too immersed in your studies to care much about him. You’ve seen him walking on campus before, with his fur coat and maroon mock turtleneck, and you could see why he was such a popular man. It’s known that Europeans always have the best sense of style.

“I’ve already got a major essay to finish for my philosophy class next week, maybe next time?” You frown at your roommate, feigning sadness that you wouldn’t be able to make it, but by the look of her face, she wasn’t going to let you get out of this one.

“You promised you’d attend a party this year! We’re juniors and you’ve been to only a handful. Besides, his parties are super classy, everyone gets all dressed up. It’ll be fun, I swear.” Wanda looks up at you with pleading eyes, and you couldn’t help but think about the opportunity presented.

It was true, you hadn’t been to many parties since college started. Your grades were stellar, your reputation even more so. Studying as a pre-med was no joke, resulting in your non-existent social life, but you honestly didn’t mind it much. You kept your head down because college was expensive enough as it is, you couldn’t afford to get distracted. Closing the laptop on your lap, a sigh escapes your mouth, and Wanda took it as a silent submission for what she had planned.

“Perfect! It’s tonight at his mansion. Who knows? Maybe you’ll be able to get him wrapped around your finger by the end of the night,” she winked and immediately began rummaging through her closet for the perfect outfit. “I heard the theme was the 20’s, I’ve always loved the flapper girl outfits.” A laugh escaped from Wanda’s lips, and a mischievous smile was displayed on her face. 

If there was anyone you trusted at this place, it’d be Wanda Maximoff. Her brother Pietro came as a close second, but she’d been your rock throughout your educational journey. Everyone loved her, everyone wanted her at their parties, but she chose to stay in with you to watch movies and talk about guys on more than one occasion. Coming from Sokovia, Wanda and Zemo talked often because of their love for the Sokovian language, but nothing romantic ever stemmed from their interactions with each other.

Truth be told, you were a pretty girl. This never went unnoticed by the guys around you, leading to a few regretful hookups. Your confidence oozed from your cheeky smile and subtly flirtatious comments when appropriate, but you were adamant on not entering a relationship until school was over. However, you were the realist out of this duo, and you knew for a fact you’d never be able to pull a guy like Helmut Zemo. With his looks and amount of money, he could get the most sought after movie star (which everyone was fairly sure he hooked up with Megan Fox at one point, but that was just a rumor).

“Do you still have your flapper girl costume from Halloween a while ago? I’ve got mine, and I don’t think we have enough time to shop before the party,” Wanda inquired.

“Of course I do, it’s my go to Halloween costume now if I ever go out again.” You smiled, reminiscing over the memories from last Halloween, and stumbled off your bed to find the outfit. 

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

The music was blasting, and you couldn’t help but look in awe of your surroundings. A double curved staircase with red carpeting was in front of you and Wanda, with grand railings connected to the marble floor below. The home was obnoxiously large, you could talk and an echo would rumble through the room. 

Wanda gives you an encouraging look, and grabs your hand to lead you towards the party room upstairs. The silver tassels from your mini dress rubbed against your dress with every step you took, and you knew there was no turning back now. Besides, there was no way you could leave this beautiful home anytime soon, you simply wanted to drink in it’s beauty forever.

Once upstairs, a man in a suit smiled at the two of you, and asked for your invitations, which Wanda gladly handed over. With a nod, he opened the doors that were taller than any of you, and the sight immediately took your breath away.

White, translucent balloons hung from the ceiling. Art deco inspired tables with feathers and gold tassels lining over them containing copious amounts of alcohol were in the middle of the room. Intricate white and golden wallpaper covered the walls, which helped bring everything together, but the flashing disco lights allowed a modern feel to this 1920’s inspired party.

Not too long after entering the room, Vision strutted over to the two of you after catching sight of his girlfriend. “Hello (Y/N),” he flashed a quick smile to you and placed a kiss on Wanda’s cheek, “Care if I steal my girlfriend away for a dance?”

“No problem at all,” you waved your hand to dismiss the two of them, and Wanda went off to the dance floor with her love. 

This was normal, Wanda would be whisked away by Vision, and you typically found a guy to bring you attention for the night, but something felt different. Right now, all you wanted was a drink, and you found yourself making a beeline towards the tables full of alcohol. 

The bartender was dressed in one of the finest suits, and you couldn’t help but wonder “If his employees are dressed like this, what was the Baron wearing?”

“What would you like?” Your mind blanked trying to think of alcohol that you liked, it’s been too long.

“Surprise me, it’s been a while.” You smiled sheepishly, but your attention was caught by the feeling of another person behind you.

“That won’t do, you look like you need something strong.” A thick, European accent filled your ears, and you couldn’t help the way that your body tensed up. With a turn of your head, your eyesight took hold of the one and only, Helmut Zemo.

He looked even more delicious standing so close to you. As expected, Zemo didn’t mess around with his looks. A burgundy, pinstripe suit hugged his figure, and you couldn’t help but take note of the way his arms looked under the tight sleeves.

“Something strong would be nice,” you say holding your chin up, not wanting to embarrass yourself in front of the most well known man in the school. With a wave of his finger and a command in a language you didn’t know, two shots of clear liquid were slammed on the table, and Zemo picked one up with a cheeky smile.

You narrowed your eyes at him and nervously picked up the shot glass with shaky hands. Lifting it up to your nose, your face contorted into an expression of disgust at the smell of acetone. “What is this?”

With a rumbling chuckle from Zemo, your cheeks blushed slightly, silently scolding yourself for losing your composure. He raised his glass and with a tilt of his head, he responded “Rakija, essentially European moonshine. I’ll take a shot with you, it can be too strong for some Americans.”

Silently, you nodded and raised the shot glass, mimicking his actions. Once he swiftly threw back the liquid into his mouth, you followed, and immediately wanted to gag. It burned as it went down your throat, the taste of pure chemicals became overwhelming, and you managed to keep a straight face through it all. Zemo slammed his glass back onto the table and took a step towards you in order to be able to communicate over the loud music.

“I apologize for being such a rude host, but I don’t recognize you.” The smell of rich cologne flooded your nostrils, and you could’ve melted right there. His eyes peered down onto you, being that you were significantly shorter than the man towering over your body, and you licked your lips.

“I usually stay in my dorm, I’m pre-med.” You held your hand out politely, “(Y/N).”

Zemo’s rough hands took hold of your own, lowering his head to leave a kiss on the indents of your knuckles. Without standing up straight, he raises his eyes to look at you through his eyebrows, “It’s a pleasure to meet you (Y/N), I hope you’re enjoying the party.”

His voice was like smooth caramel and melted chocolate, just the right mix of salty and sweet. His thick accent burned into your head with the way he said your name, and your hand was tingling from where his lips met your knuckles. After hearing the stories of his charming ways, you wanted to call bullshit, but experiencing this first hand was completely different. There was some truth to the rumors of the mysterious Baron, and you couldn’t help but feel drawn to find out more. The man simply oozed sex appeal.

“I actually just got here with Wanda. She’s off somewhere with Vision.” You were proud of how you managed to keep your voice at a steady level, knowing that your mind was going crazy with how close the two of you were.

Zemo’s eyebrow perked up at the mention of Wanda’s name and held out his hand with the corners of his mouth turning up ever so slightly, “Any friend of Wanda’s is a friend of mine, care to dance (Y/N)?”

Every fiber of your being wanted you to run, knowing that if you went to dance with him, there was no turning back. Still, you couldn’t stop your hand from being placed into his, and he swiftly pulled you along towards the dance floor. 

Sweaty bodies surrounded the two of you, but you could only focus on his eyes engulfing the way the dress hugged your body in all the right spots. He placed his hand on the small of your back where the dress was open, the touch sending shivers down your spine. The Baron’s hands were warm, completely contrasting the iciness of your skin. 

With another hand on your waist and a smirk, he began moving his hips, which you soon followed. As the song went on, the distance between you got smaller and smaller, until your chest was practically smushed against his. You lifted your left hand to run through his chestnut brown hair, and it was as soft as you expected it to be.

“Of course it is,” you thought to yourself. “A Baron deserves only the most expensive products.”

“You’d think I would know everyone on campus, but your beauty caught me by surprise.” His breath felt hot against your ear, and you swallowed thickly.

“Not many people know me,” you countered.

“What a shame, isn’t it darling?” The use of pet names was enough to make your knees buckle, especially when paired with the Sokovian drawl, but you shook your head in defiance.

“He probably says that to all the girls.” Even so, you wished your mind would be quiet so you could appreciate this moment for what it is. The chance to dance with the bachelor everyone was pining for, but he was only paying attention to you.

You didn’t respond, only picking up the pace of your swaying hips, grinding against his thigh. Zemo exhaled a quick breath, and wasted no time to smash his lips onto yours. This action sent electricity through your body, the taste of the alcohol on his breath only made him more alluring, and your mouth copied his movements. Teeth clacked against one another, but neither of you cared. The only thing you could think about was the feeling of his fingers trailing down your back, and the way you fit with him like a lost puzzle piece.

Zemo grabbed at the nape of your neck, signaling to deepen the kiss with a tightening grip and a nip at your bottom lip, but you pulled away before you did something you regret.

With a confused look, Zemo licked his lips. “Care to go upstairs to my room?”

“Actually,” you say breathlessly, “I think it’s better if I head out.” Regretfully, you untangle your bodies and take a step back from the powerful man standing in front of you.

Without taking a second to think about what you’ve just done, you turn and make your way to the exit, but not without glancing at the Baron one last time. 

His eyes never left you, and he stood still as you walked through the doors.

[headaching]

more titanic au?? 👀

Azula scrutinized Sokka with squinted eyes causing uneasiness flashed across his face. “For the record,” she jeered, “next time you want to stage an accidental falling, maybe keep your boots and jacket on.”

Sokka shot a panicked look at Zuko, who only shook his head. Sokka sputtered, “We…We were…”

“You don’t have to answer to her,” Zuko told Sokka apologetically.

“I don’t really care,” Azula snapped. “In fact, I think it’s sweet you made a friend.” Zuko crossed his arms over his chest. He didn’t dare look at Sokka. “I’m just saying, you might want to get your story straight.” She winked at Zuko before turning on her heel. Zuko’s blush was furious and so quick it sickened him. For that, he was thankful Sokka stood behind him. “Are you coming?”

“Leave without me,” Zuko growled, and she cocked her head in his direction.

“What if you get lost on the way there, and there isn’t a third-class passenger to guide you back?” Azula’s voice was both sharp and cold, cutting and dull.

Zuko conjured his most menacing tone and said, “Azula, stop talking. Leave. Now.” Slowly, Azula’s head straightened, and she walked away without a word. Zuko watched her go, slightly impressed with himself.

When Zuko turned back to face Sokka, he was lacing up his boots. “I’m sorry about her,” Zuko apologized, and Sokka looked up from his shoes to grin at him.

“Don’t worry about it,” Sokka said as he finished tying his laces. On went his jacket, and he turned toward the water while he adjusted it. His gaze remained on the ocean as he leaned his elbows against the railing. “I’d like to see you tomorrow,” Sokka announced, not a demand, but a wish. Zuko approached Sokka, though he maintained a good distance from the ledge.

“You will, at dinner,” Zuko replied, and noticed his own rapid blinking. Sokka shot him a playful look over his shoulder, then turned around and occupied the remaining space between them.

He stood an inch or two taller than Zuko, and his head bowed forward. Though Zuko’s head tilted upward, he was only brave enough to stare at Sokka’s lips, which were full and soft-looking and slightly parted.

“I meant besides dinner.” This was the closest they’d been face to face without the impending threat of treacherous death, and the air seemed harder to take in because of it. “It’s okay if you don’t want to,” Sokka added, and Zuko noted a hint of nervousness in his voice.

“No,” Zuko croaked, “I do.”

Sokka smiled. “Okay. Meet me here tomorrow, say, two o’clock?”

“Sure.”

“It’s a date.” Sokka’s voice was quiet, but it rang through Zuko’s ears and spiked his blood, churning it hot through his veins.

As Sokka turned to leave, Zuko found himself saying, “Sokka, wait,” with an outstretched hand. It suspended in the air with his index finger pointed at Sokka’s chest. Sokka’s eyes darted from Zuko’s hand to his eyes inquisitively. Zuko straightened his fingers to offer Sokka a handshake.

“Thank you for saving my life,” Zuko said formally with a stiff nod. Sokka laughed, and a few strands of hair fell around his temples. For an isolating moment, Zuko felt like an idiot, until Sokka’s hand closed around his. They shook hands with a firm grip, and it seemed to last longer than a usual handshake.

“Thank you for not jumping,” Sokka murmured, and stilled their hands, but didn’t pull away. The fingers on Sokka’s opposite hand caressed Zuko’s wrist, and Zuko tried to remember if he’d ever been touched so gently.

Eventually, Sokka stepped back, and their hold was broken. He slipped his hands into his pockets and eyed Zuko, then exhaled through his nose in a quick laugh.

“Is something funny?” Zuko asked reflexively, then cleared his throat at the sound of his raspy voice.

“Maybe.”

“Maybe?”

“Do you always have to know all the answers?” Sokka teased, and Zuko crossed his arms. Sokka had no idea how few answers Zuko actually received, or how long ago he gave up the pursuit of seeking them.

Zuko couldn’t manage a response. He realized he was shivering; he must have left his coat on his chair at dinner. Sokka noticed, too, and questioned, “Are you cold?” He didn’t wait for Zuko to answer before taking his jacket off.

“No, I don’t need—” Zuko began to protest through chattering teeth, but was interrupted by Sokka draping his jacket across his trembling shoulders.

“You’re shaking,” Sokka dismissed quietly, practically affectionate. He pulled the opening of the jacket closer together in an attempt to insulate Zuko, then placed both hands over his crossed arms when they were exposed to the cold air despite the effort.

As Zuko watched carefully, Sokka unfolded his arms and brought Zuko’s clenched fists to his mouth. Sokka exhaled a heated breath onto Zuko’s hands, while his own drifted down to cup Zuko’s elbows. Their eyes met, honey and pale blue, and neither averted their gaze.

Zuko imagined breaking one hand free to caress Sokka’s cheek, and when Sokka’s lower lip just barely brushed against his finger, the fantasy morphed into one where they were kissing.

Zuko’s heart raced at the possibility of gliding his fingers along Sokka’s toned bare arms, the nape of his neck, the sharp angle of his jaw. Maybe Sokka’s hands would hold Zuko’s waist, draw him in, entice him to step closer. Sokka’s jacket might plummet to the deck floor if their hands were frantic, or stay perfectly in place if the embrace was slow and peaceful.

Though Zuko had little romantic experience, the image of kissing Sokka was easy, dangerously so, and the possibilities were endless.

“Zuko?” brought him back to reality, where Sokka’s hands had shifted. Sokka seemed to be holding him in place with a firm grip and one foot braced forward. Zuko blinked and noticed his fingers had fallen from their clenched position to grip Sokka’s forearms. He considered pulling away, but stayed still.

“I’m sorry. W-What happened?” Zuko’s face was smoldering, and he desperately wished to conceal it.

“You checked out for a second, then seemed like you were gonna fall,” Sokka explained, and though he sounded concerned, Zuko detected a smirk on his face.

“Oh,” Zuko mumbled, and looked away pointedly.

“Seriously, are you okay?” Sokka asked, the happy traces in his face replaced with worry. Zuko sighed, inwardly cursing his inability to play anything cool. “I mean, you just had a near death experience. Of course you’re not okay.”

“That wasn't my first near death experience,” Zuko replied before thinking better of it. His throat constricted when Sokka’s eyes flickered to his scar, but he found solace in the gentle squeeze Sokka gave his arms. Sokka looked down and nodded slowly. “I’m just clumsy, like Azula said,” Zuko added, gratefully getting him to crack a smile.

“I’d hesitate to take anything she says to heart,” Sokka laughed, and Zuko breathed a silent sigh of relief. Sokka stared at him for a moment with a twinkle of amusement still in his eyes, then said, “Maybe I should walk you back, though. You seem out of it.”

“You have no frame of reference,” Zuko retorted, and though his voice was agitated, Sokka took a small step forward, somehow still possible with their close proximity.

“Not yet.” His reply was an easy, clear indication that he intended to find out. Zuko focused on the dreaded task of evening his breath, but his mind inevitably wandered to their hold on one another and how it still had not ended.

“Not yet, but not tonight,” Zuko said eventually, as gently as he could. “My father will be expecting me soon.” Sokka nodded, and glanced at their arms pointedly, then back into Zuko’s eyes with raised eyebrows. “I can walk myself,” Zuko scoffed with an eye roll. He took the opportunity to remove Sokka’s jacket, but a firm hand halted his own.

“Keep it,” he insisted, and Zuko shook his head.

“I don’t need your jacket,” Zuko responded stubbornly, but drew the garment closer together in an attempt to disguise his shivering.

Sokka’s eyes glanced down, and somehow, the grin that spread across his face left Zuko wishing he could disappear and never leave Sokka’s sight all at once. “You contradict yourself a lot,” Sokka noted. Zuko decided disappearing would be better.

“And you’re infuriating,” Zuko muttered, his eyes on the deck.

“Is that any way to thank a kind stranger for his hospitality?” Sokka teased, and Zuko brushed past him with a hard jab of his elbow.

“Thanks,” Zuko said sarcastically.

He grinned to himself when Sokka yelped, “Ow!” followed by an airy laugh. When Zuko reached the gate, he glanced over his shoulder past the fabric of Sokka’s jacket to give him a smug smile. Sokka’s laugh faded into a closed-mouth dreamy grin complete with squinted, glistening eyes, and for that Zuko’s nerve was almost wasted.

“You’re not a stranger anymore,” Zuko said quietly, unfamiliar with the flirtatiousness of his voice. Sokka’s face fell, but with a focus that made Zuko wish he could read his mind. “Goodnight, Sokka,” he mumbled and turned away before Sokka could notice any further blushing.

“Goodnight, Zuko,” Sokka called after him. “See you tomorrow.” It was much quieter, and so light Zuko wondered if the wind had tricked him. Before leaving the gate, Zuko stole one more look to find Sokka splayed across a bench with his hands padding the back of his head. He looked up at the stars with a peaceful grin.

After watching Sokka longer than Zuko would have cared to admit, he finally left the deck. As he entered the interior of the ship, the warmth of whirlwind excitement began to fade. The farther he got from Sokka, the more he wanted to turn around, occupy the space next to him on the bench, and outstretch luxuriously with his palms resting under his head. How simple it would have been, to watch the stars.

To be free.

send me the title of a wip for an excerpt!

[awritingtree]

Always have

James Potter x reader

Summary: James and Y/N have always been two peas in a pod, never straying far from the other. Even through James’ endless pining and ramblings about his ‘Lilyflower’, Y/N never left his side. But what happens when Lily’s rejections go too far one day? And what happens when Y/N realizes she’s starting developing feelings for her best friend?

Words: ~5.8k (oops?)

Warnings: fluff, angst, a bit of cursing, pining, making out

A/N: I did not expect it to be this long, I swear. This isn’t the best, especially the angst. I just didn’t know what to write because I kept with both sides of the argument. Anyways, I hope you like this <3

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Important! I just want to say that I have nothing against Slytherins. I love all houses. This was purely for the fic and nothing else. No hate <3

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5th year

James Potter, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, Peter Pettigrew, and Y/N Y/L/N, otherwise known as the self-proclaimed Marauders, could be found near the back of the Transfiguration classroom on a cold morning in the middle of January. It was unusually quiet for a room filled with more than one of the Marauders. The night before yesterday had been a full moon and all the four friends were still exhausted from helping their friend with his furry little problem.

James suddenly sat up from the desk he was laying his head on, trying to catch up on some sleep before the day started.

“Hey Evans! Go-,” he started.

“No,” said a voice sharply in response.

“You didn’t even let me finish what I was going to say, Evans,” said James, a cheeky smile painting his lips.

“No, I will not go out with you, Potter!” Lily Evans replied, not even bothering to glance at him.

James huffed and looked away as Sirius, Peter and Y/N tried to hold back their snickers behind their hands. James rolled his eyes at the sight of his idiotic best friends and laid down onto the desk, his head in his arms.

He felt a hand squeeze his upper arm. “Hey, don’t worry. She has to come around at some time.” He twisted his head to the side to look at Y/N, a hint of a smile still on her face from the transpired events. “And even if she doesn’t, it’s her loss,” she shrugged, her hand returning back to her side.

Before James could go off on a rant about how it wouldn’t be his Lilyflower’s loss, it would be his loss, Professor McGonagall’s voice drifted through the classroom, beginning the lesson for the day.

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“It’s been years and she hasn’t shown even the slightest bit of interest. Are you ever going to give up, Prongs?” Peter questioned as the Marauders walked from their last lesson, Potions, towards the Gryffindor common room.

“She’s interested, Wormtail. She’s just playing hard-to-get. I’ll wear down though, I know it. After all, how can-” James started off before a certain redhead distracted him.

“Hey Evans! Go to Hogsmeade with me?” James called after Lily.

“Never in a million years,” said Lily swiftly, rushing away from any more potential offers to go to Hogsmeade from an arrogant toerag.

“See, that means she is thinking about the possibility of us happening after a million years,” said James smiling wistfully.

Sirius groaned at James’ response to, yet, another rejection and grabbed Y/N’s hand. “Come on, darling. I need your help in getting that girl from Hufflepuff to go out with me this weekend,” he said as he dragged her away.

“Why me!? Ask James for his help!”

“I’d luck out of all future dates with Prongs’ help if his experience with Lily has anything to say,” muttered Sirius to Y/N, hoping James wouldn’t hear.

“HEY!” they heard James exclaim from behind. Sirius laughed, quickly turning around the corner of the hallway before James could throw a shoe, or something, at his head.

6th year

“Today’s the day. I know it. She’s going to say yes. She has to. She’s been throwing looks at me all day,” James rambled to Sirius, sitting in front of the Gryffindor common room’s fireplace on a Friday evening.

“And by throwing looks, he means glaring and plotting his murder,” said Remus, as he turned a page of the book in his hands. James jerked his head up as the portrait hole opened up, sighing sadly when he realized it was another student, returning from the library by the looks of it.

Y/N looked up at James from the ground, where she sat doing her Arithmancy homework. “James, I don’t think it’s the best idea to ask her out again. After what happened last year,” she trailed off.

“She’s over that,” he said hesitantly. “She has to be, right? I mean, they don’t even talk anymore. And she refuses to forgive him."

"Even if they don't talk anymore, they were best friends. And what you guys did was wrong."

Sirius, Remus, and Peter winced, looking down in shame.

"I know. And we are sorry," James looks down guiltily, looking like a kid caught for stealing cookies. Y/N smiled softly at the sight.

"I know. But she doesn't. And she's not going to want to listen to anything any of you have to say right now."

But James was not listening, for Lily had just walked into the common room with Marlene and Alice. He stood up, a determined look on his face.

Realizing what James was about to do, Y/N reached out to hold him back, "James don't-"

Paying no mind to Y/N, James marched over to a corner of the room where Lily sat, laughing at something Marlene said.

“He’s got a death wish,” said Sirius as he watched his brother walk towards his impending doom.

"Fancy seeing you here, Lilyflower," James said, leaning against a chair, a cocky smirk on his face. Lily looked up, a sour look overcoming her face after seeing who was next to her. "What do you want, Potter?" she asked with a snarky tone.

"You. Me. Hogsmeade. Tomorrow."

Lily scoffed and looked away from him.

"What? Did I say something funny?" James asked, his eyebrows furrowing.

"Just the fact that you think I'll agree to go anywhere with you."

“Now why would that be funny. We all know it’s going to happen sooner or later,” he said, you know, like an idiot; thinking it would make the situation better. Upon getting no response, James tried again, “Oh come on, Evans, you know- “

Lily stood up abruptly, an angry look over her face. “I knew you were an arrogant, good-for-nothing toerag but I did not take you to be daft. I don’t know what it will take for you to understand that I will never ever go out with you. You think you’re so high and mighty when you’re nothing but a bully! You’re no better than those Slytherins! I hate you. I would rather die than go out with the likes of you,” spit Lily venomously.

The entire common room fell silent at her words. James stood in shock, his limbs forgetting how to function. All he could do is stare at his Lilyflower with a hurt look. The silence was broken by the sound of a book being slammed onto a table which seemed to do the trick and snap James out of his shocked state. He turned on his heel and headed out the portrait hole without sparing anyone a glance, not even his brother and best friends.

“What is wrong with you!?” shouted Y/N as she approached Lily. Sirius, Remus and Peter sat wide-eyed, internally praying for someone to come and save Lily from Y/N’s wrath.

“How dare you!? Got your revenge for your precious Severus, have you, by humiliating him publicly!? I get that you don’t like James and he’s not exactly been the kindest to Snape but that was just cruel! He did not deserve that, nobody does. You may not see it, but James is one of the most kind-hearted and best people out there. I honestly pity you for not seeing anything good in him. Although, I do find it strange how up until last year, you could find the good in Snape no matter what he did or said but for some reason, James is always the devil incarnate. I honestly don’t know what he sees in the likes of you,” seethed Y/N. She turned around heading to the portrait hole, fuming.

She suddenly paused, turning to face Lily, “You know if him asking you out bothered you so much, you could have sat down with him and made him understand maturely and firmly that you were not interested when he clearly failed to take a hint. But the fact that you kept saying no but not taking it any further to make him stop his pursues makes me wonder if you like all his attention after all.”

Without waiting for Lily to form a coherent response, Y/N stormed out of the Gryffindor common room. Slowly, quiet murmurs started to fill the silence left behind by the raging Y/N; everyone discussing the events that had taken place a few moments ago right in the centre of the common room.

Sirius looked at Remus with wide eyes, “Should we go after-?”

Remus shook his head, “I think it’s best if we let her find James. She’s the only person that can comfort him right now and he’s the only one that will be able to calm her down.”

Y/N shivered making her way up to the Astronomy Tower. ‘Should’ve run out with a blanket,’ she thought grumpily, rubbing her arms trying to keep warm.

“Aw is ickle Jamsie sad because his Lilyflower said no again?” she heard the unmistakable voice of Peeves in the distance.

Y/N rushed up the rest of the stairs. “Leave him alone Peeves,” she said as soon as she was within hearing distance.

She entered the Astronomy tower to see Peeves floating up to her. “Oh, lookie here. It’s Jamsie’s girlfriend come here because his Lilyflower upset him,” he said in a mocking baby voice.

‘That doesn’t make any bloody sense’ thought Y/N. She looked at Peeves dead in the eye and sternly said, “I mean it, Peeves. Go away or I’ll call the Bloody Baron.”

Peeves rolled his eyes and left through the wall grumbling, “You’re no fun.”

Y/N slowly walked to the edge of the tower, where James stood leaning against the railings looking out at the night sky. She leaned against the railings next to him. It was a cold, clear night. The stars twinkled against the velvet black background. The stars looked near enough to grasp with the stretch of an arm from where they stood. The crescent moon hung in the sky, lighting up the dark world in a soft, dim bluish glow. A sudden cold breeze blew her hair onto her face and into her mouth, obstructing the beautiful view in front of her eyes. She spat out her hair, her hands trying to stop the breeze from blowing her hair onto her face.

James chuckled watching her struggle before he turned her around so that her back was facing him. He gathered her hair in one hand and held his other hand out. Y/N removed a hair tie from her wrist putting it on James’ outstretched hand. She waited as he carefully tied her hair into a low ponytail before turning around to get a look at his face. She felt her heart crack at the heartbroken look on his face. She quickly wrapped her hands around his shoulders and pulled him into a hug. James reacted instantly, his hands finding their place around her waist whilst he buried his face in her neck. Cold tears wet her neck as she felt James’ shoulders shake with sobs causing her to pull him closer and hold onto him more tightly.

They stood there for a few minutes, or it could’ve been a few hours. It didn’t matter to Y/N; as long as James felt better, she would spend all eternity there holding him as he let out his sorrows.

After a while, James pulled away from Y/N, his hands still wrapped around her waist. Y/N moved her hands from his shoulders to gently cradle his face. Her thumbs wiped off the tears on his cheeks as he silently looked down at her.

“She doesn’t deserve you, Jamey,” she whispered, her eyes looking into his. She reached up to fix the glasses sitting crooked on James’ face. James didn’t reply for a while. He continued to look down upon his best friend. Her nose and cheeks red with cold, lips drawn into a frown; her eyes sparkling from the moonlight reflecting off her unshed tears.

“But what if she’s the best I can do?” his voice hoarse from crying.

“I don’t believe that. You are a wonderful human being, James. You are smart and kind. You are brave, chivalrous and a true Gryffindor. You sneak out to the kitchens when one of your friends is feeling low and is in need of some hot chocolate. You are ready to drop anything and everything when someone asks you for help. You became an illegal Animagus so that your friend wouldn’t be alone during his worst moments. You would sacrifice yourself for those you care about without any hesitation. I cannot, for a second, believe that Lily Evans is the best you can do,” said Y/N.

James searched her face for any hint of a lie or doubt in what she said, but there was none. James felt a small smile creep onto his face. He leaned down to press a kiss to her forehead. “Thank you, Y/N/N,” he mumbled, his lips still pressed against her forehead.

He pulled away, moving to sit down with his feet dangling off the edge of the tower. He looked up at Y/N, “Care to join me, love?”

Y/N smiled widely and quickly sat down. She shifted close to James, resting her head on his shoulder as he wrapped an arm around her shoulder, resting his head on top of hers. They stayed like that, gazing at the stars above them.

“Can I tell you something? Full disclosure, but don’t feel offended,” Y/N spoke after a while, lifting her head up with a hesitant look on her face.

James turned away from the sky to look at her. “Of course, Y/N/N. You know you can always tell me anything.” His eyes scanned her face curiously, trying to decipher what she might want to talk about but found nothing.

“I just-” Y/N paused. She closed a deep breath and closed her eyes, trying to prepare herself for what she was about to say. She didn’t know how James would react. Would he get mad? Would he hate her? Would he never speak to her again? There was no way to really know.

James, on the other hand, felt concern. What could Y/N possibly have to say that would get her so nervous? Is she okay? Did something happen to her, but he was too busy prancing about fawning over Lily to notice? He really hoped that was not the case.

“I just think you should maybe decide to move on. You’ve been asking Lily out for years and she has yet to show any interest. Truthfully, she treats you like shit, James,” said Y/N, looking over his shoulder not daring to look at him, fearing his reaction. Maybe that’s why she wasn’t sorted in Gryffindor (or just ignore this sentence if you are a Gryffindor).

“So, you think I should just give up?” questioned James with an underlying tone of irritation. “You-”

Y/N cut him off abruptly, “No, of course not! What I mean is I think you need to stop setting yourself up for hurt and disappointment. You deserve happiness in your life, and I don’t Lily is going to give you that happiness.”

James removed his arm from Y/N’s shoulder and turned around to face the night sky again. Y/N sighed and made a move to stand up, but a hand gripping on her forearm stopped her.

Her eyes trailed the hand up to look at a confused-looking James. “Where are you going?”

“I thought you won’t want me around right now,” Y/N admitted anxiously, looking down at the floor.

“Just because you said something I don’t want to particularly agree with doesn’t mean I don’t want you around Y/N,” James said softly, gently tugging her arm telling her to sit back down.

Smiling, Y/N took a seat next to James, again.

“Just think about it okay?” she said after a while.

“I will,” sighed James. He turned his head to the side to shoot her a small grin.

7th year

Y/N didn’t know when it happened. She didn’t know when she, Y/N Y/L/N, started having feelings for her best friend, James Potter. Was it recently? Or were those feelings always there but she never realized it? “Stupid, stupid, stupid,” muttered Y/N angrily to herself. “How could you fall for your best friend!? Especially right after he seems to be moving on from his long-time crush?”

“Hey Y/N/N.” Y/N jumped at the voice and feeling of an arm around her shoulder. She looked to the side to see Remus looking at her with an amused look.

“You okay?” he asked.

“Of course, Remy. Why wouldn’t I be?”

“Other than the fact that your voice suddenly became high-pitched, you were talking to yourself there earlier.” Y/N cursed at herself internally. She was really hoping he wouldn’t’ve noticed. Unfortunately, this was Remus, he noticed everything.

“I’m fine. Just stressed. Nothing to worry about,” she said with a forced smile as she continued to walk towards the DADA classroom with Remus.

Remus shot her an unconvinced look. Before he could question her any further, Sirius interrupted them. “Moony! Why’d you leave so quickly? We were just getting to the good part of the planning!”

James and Peter came running behind him, out of breath. Y/N’s eyes connected with James’, staring at each other. Y/N felt her face burning as she looked at the beautiful boy in front of her. They only snapped out of their gaze when Peter asked, “You okay there, Prongs? Your face looks pretty red.”

James’ face flushed a deeper red as he mumbled, “It’s nothing.” He stumbled into the classroom, taking a seat at the very back. He placed his hands on his cheeks, trying to cool his face. ‘What an idiot,’ he thought.

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“Today, we shall be brewing the Memory Potion as a review from last year,” announced Slughorn. “You will work in pairs with the person sitting beside you. I shall be grading this as your second test; therefore, you cannot refer to your textbooks. You can get started right away. Good luck everyone!”

James got up mumbling, “I’ll get the ingredients, you can set everything up.” He walked away awkwardly without waiting for a response from his partner.

He soon returned; his hands filled with all the ingredients needed for the potion. Y/N having already set up the cauldron, was writing the recipe down from memory in her book so that they didn’t miss any steps preparing the potion. They got to work as soon as she was done. They worked in silence, knowing exactly what to do to not get in the way of the other but still work as a team.

Y/N searched for the mortar and pestle to crush the sage when a hand holding onto exactly what she needed stretched out to her. James smiled at her sheepishly.

“Thank you,” she mumbled, taking the mortar and pestle. Their fingers brushed lightly. Electricity spread through their bodies from the small amount of contact. Y/N started to crush the sage into a fine powder, attempting to hide the blush forming on her cheeks. Little did she know, James was going through the same struggle.

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“Hurry! Wormtail won’t be able to hold him off for long.”

“Shut up! It’s almost-” he said finishing off their masterpiece with a sticking charm. “There. It’s done.”

James and Sirius stepped back to admire their work.

“Achoochoo!”

“I can’t believe we agreed that would be the warning,” exclaimed Sirius as he ran away from the direction of the heavy footsteps.

“It’s not like ‘Meowie-ow’ was a better choice,” James pointed out. Turning a corner, he toppled over, bringing down whatever it was that he bumped into.

“Ow!” a voice cried out from underneath. There was Y/N, underneath him, with him lying on top of her. Her hair was left loose in its natural waves, face free of any makeup. She smelled like sandalwood, he observed. She wore a blue jumper, his cheeks coloured scarlet as he recognized the jumper as his. She looked mesmerizing. His eyes drifted across her face to her lips. And he started to lean in.

Y/N stared wide-eyed at the sight of James on top of her. His jet-black hair was messy as it always was. He wore a green jumper which brought out the hazel colour of his eyes. She loved the colour of his eyes. She noticed his eyes glance at her lips before starting to lean in. She thought he was going to kiss her for a moment before-

“Godric Y/N/N! I’m so sorry,” he apologized, moving to get off her, stopping himself from ruining a friendship. He leant her a hand to pull her up from the ground, putting a hand on her waist to steady her. Time seemed to stop as their eyes connected. The sounds faded into nothing and the things around them seemed to melt away. All James could see was Y/N and all Y/N could see was James.

The sound of a throat being cleared had them jumping apart, realizing that they had been leaning in again. Y/N reached down to collect the books that flew out of her hands when she crashed to the ground, her head hurting from the impact.

“He-here let me help,” stuttered James, kneeling down to help her collect her books.

“Thank you,” she said softly. James smiled at her bashfully, handing her books back.

“I-um. I should go,” said Y/N.

“Yeah. I should too,” replied James.

None of them moved for a small period of time. Y/N smiled at James before walking away in the direction she came from. James stared after until she climbed up the stairs at the end of the corridor.

“So, what was that about?” asked Sirius. James turned around to see his brother standing there with a knowing smirk on his face.

“What was what?”

“Don’t play coy with me. You know exactly what I’m talking about. You like Y/N.”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about,” James brushed off Sirius.

“Don’t lie to me! I am your brother. I know exactly what it’s like when you like someone.”

James continued to look at him with a blank look. Sirius looked back with a pointed look saying, ‘Don’t lie to me.’

“Okay fine, yes. I like her,” admitted James in a quiet voice facing his feet.

“I knew it!”

James didn’t say anything, continuing to look down at his feet. Sirius stared at him. He had never seen James this way, it seemed as if he was almost shy? But that wasn’t possible, James Potter was confident, some would say cocky and arrogant. James Potter was not shy.

“You love her,” stated Sirius.

James sighed and looked up at his brother.

“I think I do,” said James, ruffling his hair. “I think, maybe, I always have.”

James slid down the wall and sat down on the floor, urging Sirius to do the same.

“I realized it a few days before this year. During the summer holidays when Moony, Wormtail and Y/N/N came over. We were all in the back garden. You three were messing around with some muggle device as I was sitting down in the garden and Y/N was helping Mum with the sandwiches for lunch. I looked over her and that’s when it hit me. She looked so beautiful, Pads. Her hair was up in her usual ponytail, blowing lightly in the summer breeze. The sun lighting up her face as she laughed at something Mum said. I don’t know what they were talking about, it doesn’t matter, but the smile on her face took my breath away. When I saw her and Mum interacting, I just- I realized I want to see them interact like that, like mother and daughter, for the rest of my life.”

Sirius gawked at James from this sudden revelation before shaking himself out of it. “You should tell her how you feel, James.”

“No, I can’t,” James shook his head, then pushed his glasses, that almost fell off, up his nose. “Every time I’m around her, my breath gets stuck in my throat and I can barely breathe yet talk.”

James groaned and buried his face into his hands. “How stupid am I?”

“I don’t think you’re stupid at all. But I do think you’re stupid to not tell her,” said Sirius, patting James on the back. “You need to tell her, mate. For your sake and hers.”

James contemplated; he thought out all the ways telling her how he felt could go wrong. Then he thought about all the ways it could go right. He nodded.

“I will.”

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“Hello darling.”

Y/N looked up to see Sirius sitting across from her.

“What are you doing here?” she asked suspiciously.

“What? I can’t come and spend time with my favorite girl?” asked Sirius, a mocking hurt look on his face.

Y/N rolled her eyes at his dramatics, “No, it’s just that you’re here. Alone in the Library. Without any of the others. I have a right to be suspicious with all of your history.”

Sirius chuckled, “We’re not pulling a prank on you, I promise. I actually came here to talk to you about something.”

Y/N raised an eyebrow in question, gesturing to him to go on.

“You like James, and I want to know why you haven’t told him yet.”

Y/N started to cough, choking on air. She didn’t know what she was expecting but it was not that.

“What gives you that absurd idea?” she squeaked out.

“Um the reaction you just gave and the way you look at him when you think no one’s watching; like he put the stars and moon in the sky.” Y/N felt her cheeks heat up at his words. “The funny thing is, he would bring them all to the ground for you if you asked.”

Y/N stayed quiet. Sirius had to be joking, right?

“I’m not joking, darling.”

“Then I think you’re wrong in what you see. He couldn’t possibly like me,” Y/N countered.

“And why would you think that?” asked Sirius, leaning back on his chair.

“He can’t, Sirius. I mean, look at the type of girls he likes. Lily Evans; beautiful, smart, kind, head girl. I’m nothing compared to her.”

Sirius furrowed his eyebrows. How could she think that? Sure, she wasn’t head girl, but she was a Prefect. And maybe Y/N could come off as mean at times, but she was the sweetest thing when she isn’t angry. She was just as beautiful, just as smart, just as kind as Lily, if not more.

“Hey, I don’t believe that,” Sirius spoke softly, placing a hand onto hers. “You are an extraordinary person Y/N. James should be honoured to have someone like you return his feelings.”

Y/N smiled at him but with an unconvinced look causing Sirius to sigh.

“Look, why don’t we go to the kitchens and have some chocolate cake. Let’s forget about all this James business for now.”

Y/N’s smile widened at the idea. “That sounds perfect.”

⭑*•̩̩͙⊱••••✩••••̩̩͙⊰•*⭑

A few weeks passed by without anything happening. To say that Sirius was getting impatient and frustrated would be an understatement. He was tired of all the shy glances when the other wasn’t looking and the flirting, so subtle, that none of two realized what was happening.

James on the other hand was pretty content with how life was at the moment. He would sit next to Y/N in all the classes they shared, giving him the opportunities to look over at her as much as he wanted or cause a small ‘accidental’ brush of their hands, jolting sparks up his arm. He enjoyed the subtle flirting and her response as she flirted back, but he didn’t think she realized what she was doing. They were really close friends, after all. They had always been more affectionate and comfortable with each other than any other normal friendship.

A paper hitting the back of his head snapped James out of his daydream of kissing Y/N, how it would feel to have her run her hands through his hair.

“Tell her or I will.” said the note. James turned around to see Sirius with a serious look on his. James didn’t get a chance to reply as the bell rang, ending the lesson.

"I mean it, Prongs. Do it or I swear I will," said Sirius, walking down the corridor with James and Remus.

James looked at Remus for help, but Remus shook his head indicating he was not getting involved in this. Remus knew the two liked each other way before than they, themselves, did. He thought they suited each other perfectly and was waiting for one of them to make a move. But like Sirius, he was left disappointed and frustrated.

"Ah look, there she is" Sirius pointed in the direction where you were walking with one of your Hufflepuff friends, having got back from Herbology. Your cheeks were flushed red from the cold outside, your hair was slightly ruffled from the wind. Your uniform, however, was tidy as always; your shirt tucked in, and tie pulled up to the neck. Others might say you're prim and proper, but James adored how you always wanted things in place; neat and tidy, because 'I have enough of a mess in my head, I don't need it out here too.'

Next thing he knew, he was being shoved into a small, cramped room. The room was lit by the small amount of light seeping through the gap between the floor and the door. James could barely make out what the shelves in the room were stocked with when the door opened behind him, another person getting shoved in.

"What the fuck are you doing, Sirius!?"

Y/N.

"You both know why you're in there. And you're not getting out until it's sorted. Have fun children." They both could hear the teasing smirk on Sirius' face.

Nerves started to wash over James’ body as he realized there was no way out of this. Either he told her how he felt or Padfoot would do it for him which he was sure no one would like. He wiped his sweaty palms on his trousers and took a long, deep breath hoping to calm himself.

He heard some shuffling as a small, soft hand grabbing his, hesitantly. When James made no move to pull away, Y/N intertwined their fingers. “James?” she whispered into the darkness. James took in a shaky breath, finally looking at her. She looked as nervous as he felt.

“Can I tell you something? Full disclosure,” her voice shaking.

‘Is she as nervous as I am? Is her palm sweating, or is it just mine? Godric, how is she not repulsed by how sweaty my hand is?’ James thought.

“Of course. You know you can always tell me anything,” James spoke in a hushed voice as he tried to keep his voice from shaking.

Y/N mumbled something inaudible out.

“I’m sorry, what was that?”

“I said, I’m in love with you. I think I always have been,” she whispered out, eyes shifting to their conjoined hands.

James’ eyes widened upon hearing those words; those words he knew, now, that he’d been waiting years to hear; not from Lily, but from Y/N.

Something snapped inside of him.

He slammed his lips to hers and pushed her against the closed door. He moved one of his hands to her hips while the other found its place at her small of her back. His body heated up at the feeling of her lips moving against his. They were slightly chapped, but still soft, exactly how he imagined they would be.

Y/N was shocked. This was not what she thought would be happening when she confessed her feelings. She thought he would surely walk away, never to look back. What gave her the confidence to say her feelings out loud, she’ll never know, but she thanked Merlin she did. At the feeling of James’ hands against her body and his lips moving against hers, in a slow but passionate embrace; it felt like a fire lit up inside of her and was spreading, burning through her entire body. Y/N moved to run her hands through his soft hair, messing it up even more. She pulled him closer, moving her head to the side to deepen the kiss. James squeezed her hip making Y/N let out a small gasp. He took the opportunity and slid his tongue inside her mouth. James let out a groan at the feeling of her tongue against his, pushing her further against the door, leaving no space between their bodies.

Y/N held in a whimper as their lips detached. The feeling of James’ lips against her jaw, leaving kisses down her neck sent shivers down her spine. James sucked on a spot above her collarbone, eliciting a low breathy moan from Y/N. She tugged on his hair and brought his lips back to hers in a slow kiss before they pulled away from each other.

James breathed heavily, staring at the sight of a flustered Y/N against his body.

He tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear, leaving his hand to cup the side of her face. His thumb moved soothingly against her flushed cheeks before tracing her lips.

“I don’t think, I know I always have been in love with you,” he breathed out, his eyes filled with adoration for his girl, wrapped up in his arms.

A smile spread across Y/N’s face, happiness and love shining through her eyes. She pulled him back down into a kiss. Unlike their first kiss, this one was soft and gentle, both of them trying to express years of pent up feelings to each other through the kiss.

Suddenly, the door was yanked open. Y/N fell back with a yelp and James fell on top of her.

“Detention, both of you.”

They both looked up to see Professor McGonagall peering down at them through her glasses with a disapproving glare.

“Put yourselves together and head to class. You’re already late as it is,” she said strictly before turning around to head towards her office with a hint of a smile on her face. ‘Flitwick owes me 5 galleons,” she thought happily.

Y/N gaped up at James, surprised by what had just occurred.

“Did we just get detention for snogging in a broom cupboard?”

“Reckon it was worth it,” said James with a cheeky smile before pressing his lips to hers, pulling her in for another kiss.

⭑*•̩̩͙⊱••••✩••••̩̩͙⊰•*⭑

If you enjoyed reading this fic, please like/comment/reblog! Your opinion/feedback is welcome, appreciated, and motivating :)

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[taechaos]

I was thinking how would a day in the Family of the Jeons looking like? Could you make a drabble of it? Of course only if you want to :)

OOOOO OK OK OK I LOVE THAT

Jungkook hasn't cracked a single smile throughout the whole day. You tried comforting him before his ride back home for the majority of the spring break, but nothing can save his depression from being around his mother. There isn't one good memory that involves her presence in his life.

He was willing to stay in his dorm throughout the whole three weeks of vacation, but tough luck, there was a cockroach infestation a day prior to his holiday. Only his dorm. Fate has different plans for him, and he's not religious or anything, but Satan might just be lurking around him.

Your house isn't available because of your strict mother, his friends are leaving town and staying with Taehyung is arguably worse than temporarily living with his mother. At least he doesn't have to share a room with her.

The scowl on his face only deepens when he comes face to face with his first home. It's like ripping off a bandaid when he opens the door, unlocked as usual, before entering.

The living room greets him with crickets. Utter silence and empty with no one around. The walls are chipped, the couch is washed out and the hardwood flooring has scratches on them. He enters and makes the effort to not make a sound as to not summon his mother, but like clockwork, the moment he steps foot inside, she appears from the kitchen.

"Jungkook!" she gushes and tackles him into a bone crushing hug. Her eye makeup is smudged and her outfit is merely a black nightgown.

He knows her excitement will wear off soon enough; they're bound to argue in a matter of minutes about his "disrespectful behavior." She's unpredictable in that regard, but it's clear that absence makes the heart grow fonder.

He groans and yanks her arms away. His greeting is merely a question, "Is anyone else here?" He knows his mother like the back of his hand: incapable of being alone and constantly searching for her next soulmate. The only serious relationship he's had was with his father, who is basically missing.

"Only my boyfriend and his daughter." She leaves room for him to take off his shoes and throw his bag full of necessities on the floor. "She's really pretty by the way," she whispers.

"Not interested."

"Oh come on, you haven't even met her–"

"Babe?" A stranger with a gruff voice steps out of the master bedroom while fixing his bed hair. It's 2 PM and he looks like he just woke up.

"Good morning sweetie," his mother brightly grins at the man before introducing her son. "This is Jungkook, my boy I was telling you about. Kook, this is Jinyoung." She leans into him threateningly, "Be nice."

"How fucking old is he?" he whispers back, perplexed.

"Thirty-seven."

"Are you serious?" he groans and stands straight before picking up his bag. "Good luck," he plainly greets the man before walking off to his bedroom.

Upon opening the door, a young girl sitting on his bed with music blasting from her earphones enters his sight. She squeals when she looks up to see the intruder and yanks the buds out in panic.

"What the fuck? Mom!" he whirls around to find her in the kitchen again. "Why is there someone in my room?"

She doesn't look up from the stove where she's practically burning scrambled eggs and her calm tone contrasts his angry one. "That's Yeri, the girl I was telling you ab–"

"I don't give a fuck, why is she in my room?!" The chaos is already making his head hurt.

"She's been staying there for a while now."

Jungkook slaps a hand on his forehead and inhales until his lungs hurt. He stomps back to his room with a death glare. The girl hasn't moved an inch out of surprise and the music continues to come out of the earphones. "Get out. You're taking the couch."

"A-Are you Jungk–"

"Out."

She shoots out of the bed and scurries to the living room with a fearful expression. He sighs and kicks a stray bra lying on the floor out of his way before dropping his bag with a thud.

This sucks. He considers running off to Taehyung in a moment of desperation, but he hasn't reached the level to go through with it yet.

He starts unpacking and ignores his mother's announcement of breakfast. He collapses on his bed with a grunt and massages his temples, but even one second of peace is not an option in this household when his mother barges in to repeat her announcement.

"I'm not hungry," he spits.

"At least sit with me. I've missed you so much–"

"I'm tired."

"Stop being a brat and come."

She leaves no room for argument when she slams the door shut. "You're so annoying!" he shouts past the thin walls before smacking his head at how childish he sounds. Is this Hell?

He shoots you a quick message before trudging to the dining room.

♡ the love of my life ♡: kill me

He slumps down on the only idle chair next to Yeri and leans back without even glancing at the dish. He lost his appetite the second he came here.

No one's touched their food yet, presumably from waiting on Jungkook, and just as Jinyoung picks up the utensils, his daughter nervously chimes in, "Let's say grace!"

The couple is surprised by her words. "You're the one who always whines about it," her father states quizzically.

His mother scoffs playfully. "She wants to hold Jungkook's hand, sweetie," she nudges her boyfriend with her elbow.

Yeri blushes and looks down at her lap as Jungkook mutters exasperatedly, "Jesus fucking Christ..."

He crosses his arms when she meekly holds out a hand to him and her father, and his mother frowns upon the action.

"Jungkook," she drawls.

"I'm not fucking Christian!"

"Just hold her hand!"

"I don't want to!"

"When a girl is interested in you, you're expected to respond accordingly."

The other family in the table stare at them in bewilderment, thrown off by their bickering.

"Yeah, I'm responding with rejection."

"Get over this I-hate-girls phase already, you're twenty years old!"

"I have a girlfriend!"

"Oh please," she dismisses him with a flick of her wrist, "I'd love to meet her in your dreams."

"She's real," he growls with a snarl, "and she's certainly not a kid." He gives Yeri a pointed look.

"I'm seventeen!" Her father clears his throat uncomfortably.

A notification from his phone disrupts the conversation, and he checks it to escape this mentally draining interaction.

You: oh baby what's wrong:((

♡ the love of my life ♡: mom is breathing

"Who is it?"

He scoffs at his mother without looking up from the screen, "My girlfriend."

Yeri whines with a pout as his mother jumps from her seat to take a peek.

"What the hell are–"

She smacks the back of his head after reading his last text in a millisecond. "Mom is breathing? You brat! Who is this girl? Show me a picture," she gushes excitedly, completely forgetting her earlier attempt at matchmaking.

"None of your damn business," he hisses before he gets another notification. Him and his mother immediately look down at his phone.

You: i'm trying to make the best of staying with my mom >_< you should try as well!

♡ the love of my life ♡: with this woman?|

She coos as she snatches the phone out of his hand. "Hey!"

"She sounds so nice! Take her advice, you imbecile–"

"I'd rather die," he deadpans as he tries not to hurt her while reaching for his phone.

"Listen to me," she uses her authorative tone that has Jungkook pulling back with a frown. Old habits die hard, such as rebelling against his mother before she becomes genuinely intimidating. "You're stuck with me for a month. Don't make me turn this house into a living hell."

He resists the urge to say it already is.

————

Smoke swirls in the open air from the lit joint that hangs off Jungkook's lips. Finally, some peace and quiet in the balcony. He came prepared with a stash of cannabis for when things get too overwhelming in the house, and it's only the first day.

The sky is bland with no stars or clouds, a boring view of midnight black from the balcony where he leans against the railing. He enjoys watching the busy street instead, and he feels less shitty about his current living situation.

And yet his newfound happy daze fades too soon when the joint is snatched from his fingers. "Give it ba-" he pauses when he sees his mother taking a puff from his stick. He looks away lazily.

"Don't worry," she blows out the smoke, "I'm not here to scold you for smoking weed."

"I don't care."

"You're old enough anyway." She follows his line of sight and takes another drag. It's quiet for a minute until she asks, "You met her in college?"

"Yep."

"Truth be told, I can't imagine you asking out a girl when you're so spiteful. How did it happen?"

He can't believe he's having this conversation, or why he's responding without being so snarky. He chuckles instead. "I didn't really ask her out. She made a deal with me where she does my homework and I pretend to like her back or whatever."

She laughs quietly. "You used her feelings for you to your advantage? You take after your mother," she jokes.

"She offered," he shrugs with a smile, " and I was struggling with my courses. I chose law as my major when I was mad at you so I could sue you or something, but it's so fucking boring."

"Oh, how much you love your mother," she huffs with a giggle. "I deserved that. Being a single mother didn't exactly work out for me."

"You were no mother," he scoffs, "all you did was ignore me or insult me when you weren't introducing me to my next step-dad. Did you know that this is my first relationship?" he glances at her with a bitter lopsided grin. She turns to look back at him and passes the joint. He inhales the filter before continuing with a mouthful of smoke, "I didn't want to date anyone because I didn't want to turn out like you. I didn't want to have relationships that only last a week before moving onto another one. I can be alone."

"Let me guess, you didn't believe in love either," she mocks in a silly deep voice.

"Fuck off."

She sighs as a peaceful silence settles over them aside from the running engines. The truth hurt.

"Tell you what, son. You turned out a lot better than I did. My parents didn't exactly raise me either, only left me with more issues than I can bear." Jungkook listens intently without reacting. This is the only normal conversation he's ever had with his mother. "I have practically no redeeming qualities, and having sex is the only way I can pass the time."

He groans. "I did not have to know that."

"Oh, I'm sorry, did you want me to tell you about the birds and the bees first?"

"I get it, you're a prostitute with no salary."

She whacks his head before bursting out in laughter. He suppresses his own laugh and merely chuckles through his nose.

"You would've been a better mother if you were high all the time."

"Nah," she shakes her head, "I just needed to be more present throughout your childhood. It's too late for me now." She shrugs as her lips fall into a hard line. Jungkook's smile falters and he doesn't say anything.

When she feels tears welling up in her eyes, she blinks repeatedly and lets go off the railing. "Good night, Kook. I'll see you in the morning."

He nods at her and watches her leave. Beats staying with Taehyung.

"Night," he murmurs to himself before putting out his joint and entering the living room. All the lights are out, but he's still familiar with the layout of the place.

When he passes the couch, he flinches at the sound of Yeri's voice. "G-Good night–"

"Shut up."

Before jumping on his bed, he checks his phone to see if you've sent any texts.

You: good night and sleep well baby!! i love you sm <33

♡ the love of my life ♡: gn and ilym

♡ the love of my life ♡: lets meet up tmr

[kelieah]

surprise (peter parker x stark!reader)

summary: you give peter a gift he would have never expected to receive from you

word count: 2.9k

warnings: angst angst angst, fluff, language

edited: sorry this is super late :(

a/n: hehe, happy bday to the cutest puppy of all! thank you to everyone who helped me come up with ideas for this fic, ily all 3000

masterlist

You and Peter have been dating for almost a year now. You both decided to get together after all the chaos that took place in Europe. You two have been friends for quite a while before that, so the fact that your friendship with Peter flourished into something even better is one of the many reasons why you adore him.

His birthday is tomorrow and you wish to make it as special as it can be. Though you’re not exactly sure how to do that. You know your dad would’ve easily bought something tremendously big and written a cheesy yet short letter with it, and Peter would love it. But if you did the same, it wouldn’t be right. Right?

The night before his birthday, you were in a spiral. You had already planned a surprise party for him at his apartment though that was the least of your worries. You were pacing around your room, unsure if the gifts you’ve been preparing for weeks was enough or if you should add more things. 

Over the years you’ve been friends with him and the months you’ve been dating him, you put together memories and experiences all in a scrapbook. It looked cute and simple on the outside, but once you opened it up, the pages were filled with photos, letters, doodles, and colors. Many references or inside jokes were scattered along the side margins and stickers were put accordingly. You made sure it was perfect, but your gift still felt incomplete to you.

You wanted to be extra. You had to be extra. You remember your mom saying it was something you got from your dad. That man was always one for his dramatics. So you stayed up a bit later than you should’ve, making tiny little paper stars with sweet compliments, affirmations, and advice in them. Then you made as many as you can to fill up a glass jar shaped like R2-D2. 

Though to you, that still wasn’t enough. So you searched and searched and eventually found some vintage Star-Wars comics. Ignoring the fact that they were over a thousand bucks, you bought a dozen or so. His gifts were spread across your bed and you stared at it for what felt like hours.

Is this enough? Is this too much? Will he love it? Will he even like it? Shit.

You remember wanting to sleep and putting it all aside to figure out in the morning. You might’ve forgotten his birthday was the next day with how much you focused on the gifts than the actual date, so you woke up with panic.

You also remembered there was one last thing you wanted to get for Peter but once you glanced at the clock, it was already noon. You overslept.

You feel your heart drop immediately realizing that you weren’t able to text or call Peter a happy birthday or good morning. You assume he must be worried, or hurt or maybe upset? You place your face in your hands and fall into deep thought. Then it hit you, the surprise party is in three hours.

“Morning Friday, read my text messages and voicemails please,” you groggily lean against your bed rest.

“Are you sure, Y/n? You have 243 text messages and 94 voicemails,” Friday informs you. 

Your eyes widen and you shake your head, “Uhm, actually just read the ones from Mom, Peter, Aunt May, and Happy please,” you mutter.

“Understood,” Friday responds, beginning to go through your messages and voicemails, “Mom has messaged you, “Morning honey. Had to go to some meetings. Nanny is leaving at 1, please watch Morgan. I’ll meet you at the party. Could you bring Morgan with you when you go?” Peter has not messaged or called you. Aunt May has messaged you, “Hi dear! I’ve already baked up some cherry pies for the party, when are you going to be over to decorate? By the way, Peter went out and is probably patrolling,” with a smiley face and heart. Happy has messaged you, “Hello, I already ordered the catering, and went over the invite list. Are you up yet?” and he also left the voicemail saying, “Hopefully you’re up by the time you get this. Most of the Avengers are coming, except Thor, the Saviors, no wait, the Guardians of whatever they’re called, and Captain Marvel. I’m sure you could figure out why. Give me a call when you’re up.” Done.”

“Shit,” you whine loudly. You throw yourself out of bed and get to your morning routine. You quickly tidy up your room, take a quick shower, go through your skincare routine and get dressed up. You decided to put on some makeup and wear nicer clothes for once given it’s your boyfriend’s birthday.

You look around your room and inhale deeply, “Just that one last thing,” you remind yourself and walk off. After getting what you need, the nanny informs you that she’s leaving. You walk over to Morgan’s room and knock the door before entering, “Hi princess, you ready for Spider-Man’s birthday?”

She turns around, all dressed up in a pretty floral dress, “Hi sissy, yes! Don’t you mean, your friend boy?” she giggles, running up to you.

You roll your eyes playfully, “You mean boyfriend? Yes, c’mon pretty girl. We’re going to go now.”

An hour or so later, you’re making your way over to Aunt May and Peter’s apartment with Morgan in the backseat. You felt bad for not greeting Peter at all today but you decided to make it a part of the surprise. “He still has a tracker in his suit!?” you burst out in laughter as you stop at a red light.

“Seems like Tony didn’t get rid of it before, I don’t blame him,” Happy mutters. “You got everything right? Morgan, Peter’s gifts, the decorations, and your head?”

“Yes Happy,” you glance into your back seat, checking in on Morgan and seeing the piled clutter. “I feel like Santa Clause with a bunch of gifts and an elf in the backseat,” you chuckle. Morgan gasps and makes a silly expression at you that brings a smile to your face.

“Maybe you are with all the cookies you eat,” he jokes.

“You’re one to talk, anyway where’s Peter now?” you ask as you drive off as soon as the light turns green.

“He’s swinging around, I saw the news. He’s interacting with fans and interviewers, a pretty rare case.”

“True, he must be trying to distract himself. Am I the only one who hasn’t greeted him yet?” you ask, nervously biting on your bottom lip.

“Yep.”

“Shoot, well I’m sure he’ll understand.”

“Let’s hope so, I’ll see you and Morgan when you both get here. Gotta help May out with the pies.”

“Sure, the pies,” you tease, causing Happy to roll his eyes and end the call.

You feel your heart stop as Peter suddenly gives you a call. You fight the urge to pick up and shower him in reassurance and love, but ignore for the sake of the surprise. 

Ten to twenty minutes later, you and Morgan arrive at May and Peter’s apartment. You smile and knock on the door, struggling to hold everything in your arms while holding Morgan’s hand.

“Hello hello, you two,” Aunt May opens the door with a bright smile on her face. She lets you in and helps you out, “Took you long enough.”

“Sorry, I overslept. I wasn’t sure if my gifts were enough,” you pout and kiss her cheek. 

“That’s okay. Morgan baby, Happy’s in the kitchen.” May smiles and ruffles Morgan’s hair. Morgan hums and hugs her leg, running off.

“These are all your gifts for him? Sweetheart, it’s his birthday not Christmas,” she giggles. “I’m sure he would love anything you get for him, even if it was a cheap lego set.”

“I know I know, it’s just Peter has been through so much. I feel like he deserves the world,” you say bashfully.

“You’re so cute,” she hums and helps you place the many gifts on a certain table. “Remember, you have been through a lot too.”

“Yes, but today’s his day,” you cross your arms. “Anyway, enough chatter. We should decorate now, everyone’s coming over in an hour right?”

“Yep. I also told Peter to swing around for a while and bring Thai food home at 4. He thinks it’s just going to be him, Happy and I. I told him you have work,” she says, grabbing some decorations.

“Okay, perfect. I feel so bad, I haven’t communicated with him since last morning,” you huff and grab some streamers.

“I’m sure he understands, kid gets busy too,” Happy walks over from the kitchen with Morgan trailing behind him. “Man, are these all your gifts for him?” he glances over at a table filled with only your gifts.

“Y-Yes? Why is that such a bad thing,” you groan.

“It’s not, I think,” he glances at May who gives him a look. He puts his hands up in defense and slowly walks back into the kitchen.

“You’re fine, honey. Also, I love your dress, isn’t that?” she tilts her head.

“Yeah, it’s the dress I was wearing on our first date,” you smile to yourself, glancing down at your cherry red dress. It fit perfectly, not too loose or tight and it had pockets. Something you and Peter were always amused by.

After the three of you finish decorating, the guests begin to arrive. Most of the team showed up and you and Peter’s close friends. You let out a sigh of relief and lean on the fire escape railing, looking out at the city. You glance at your watch, “Almost time.”

“Hey there,” you hear from behind you. You look back and see Happy.

“Hey.”

“You doing alright? Peter’s coming soon,” he says and walks next to you, leaning against the railing.

“I know, I just feel like. I did too much? Too less? I’m not sure, I just wanted this day to be perfect for him especially after last year,” you mutter and glance at Happy with teary eyes.

He smiles sadly and pulls you into a hug, “It’s absolutely perfect. You know, Peter isn’t going to be the only one who’s proud.”

“Who else? You?”

“Well, besides me and a bunch of other people. Your dad,” he murmurs.

You feel your heart tighten and you stifle a cry, stuffing your head into his chest. He sighs and hugs you close, “Thank you.”

“No, thank you. Sometimes I feel like he never left, because everyday I see him in you,” he pulls away, holding your shoulder.

You smile softly and nod, “T-Thank you, Happy really,” you sniffle.

“Of course. You should probably tidy up, your makeup’s running,” he takes a step back.

You laugh half-heartedly, “Alright. Could you tell everyone to get in their places?” you begin to walk towards the apartment.

“Got it,” he nods and follows you back inside.

Your heart was racing, everyone wasn’t sure if he was going to show up at the front door or his room. Happy gives the signal that he’s arrived and everyone goes silent. You feel a slight sense of relief when you hear noises from the front door. If he came through his room, he probably wouldn't be that surprised. 

Peter sighs and holds the bag of Thai food in one hand, opening up the door with a key in the other. His senses have been all over the place today and his heart didn’t feel like it was in the right place. He was beyond worried about you, he didn’t even care that it was his birthday. He just wanted to know if you were okay.

He opens the door, calling out for May. “May, I’m home-”

“Surprise!” Everyone appears out from their spots, greeting Peter with bright smiles and confetti. 

Peter instantly jumps and places a hand over his heart. “G-Guys!? Bruce? Scott? Wait, Ned? MJ!?” he stammers, looking all over the place.

“Happy birthday, Spidey,” you come out of your hiding spot, smiling warmly at him.

“Oh my god, Y/n,” he breathes out and rushes over to you, pulling you into a hug. You let out a gasp as he picks you up and spins you around. He places you down and hugs you closer. He pulls away and glances at your dress then at you, “Well aren’t you a sight for sore eyes,” he sighs, kissing your cheek. 

You blush at his comment and fiddle with your dress. “Thank you,” you smile, hoping he notices your outfit.

“Wait, isn’t this the dress from our first date?” he holds some of your dress and glances at you. You grin and nod, he sighs happily and pulls you back into a hug.

Everyone reacts sweetly until Flash, who was surprisingly invited yells out, “Get a room!” Everyone instantly glares at him and he shrivels up, smiling sheepishly.

You roll your eyes and Peter ignores him, peppering your face with kisses. “I thought you were mad at me or something, or hurt, or just forgot about me,” he rambles, holding your face.

“Well, luckily none of those are the cases. I just wanted to surprise you,” you hum.

“You planned all this?” he gapes, glancing around his apartment once again.

“Yes, but I had a lot of help,” you hum.

“Friend boy!” Morgan squeals and rushes over, hugging you and Peter’s legs. “Happy birthday,” she beams.

Peter’s eyes soften and his bends down, “Thank you cutie,” he grins.

She squeals and hugs him, “Can you be my friend boy?”

You gasp dramatically, “Morgan, he’s my friend boy.”

“I don’t know babe, Morgan looks amazing in her little princess dress,” he picks up Morgan, holding her close.

You pout and cross your arms. Morgan bubbles happily and wraps her tiny arms around his neck.

To say Peter was overwhelmed with happiness was an understatement. He felt relief, appreciation, love and support. This whole time he was worrying that he had done something wrong when really nothing was wrong and everyone was just hiding and being quiet for his surprise.

After catching up with some of the Avengers and friends and eating dinner all together, it was time for cake and presents.

You couldn’t express how unbelievably happy and emotional you felt for Peter as he stood in front of his cake as everyone sang Happy Birthday to him. His face was filled with pure joy and you wish that could stay on his face forever, because to you, that’s what he deserves and more.

Not much later present time begins and Peter starts to open up everyone’s gifts. You told him to open yours last. You absolutely adored this boy and your heart swelled up every time he held a genuine smile to his face as he opened his gifts. He got up, thanked and hugged every single person who had got him a gift. You truly are smitten for him.

“Who are all these gifts from?” Peter asks, glancing at the huge piles of gifts left. “I thought I had opened everyone’s except Y/n’s already,” he chuckles. 

“Those are all mine,” you walk over, sitting next to him.

“Oh, flower,” he mutters softly and pouts out his bottom lip. “You didn’t-”

“Ah, please open them and shut your mouth,” you cross your arms. Everyone laughs in amusement at your sass and watches as Peter begins to open up the gifts.

Peter first opens up the comic books and jars filled with little letters, “Oh my god, you didn’t,” he whimpers happily. “This must’ve cost a fortune,” he holds up the comic books.

“What? All I did was write on little pieces of paper and-”

“Babe.”

“I know! I’m joking, on to the next please,” you coo and kiss his cheek. 

He huffs and unravels the next gift, his eyes beginning to glisten with tears. He slowly flips through the pages of the beautiful scrap book you made for him. He comes across a page where it was you, your dad and him in multiple photos. He lets tears slip form his eyes and glances at you with softened eyes, “Y/n,” he mutters.

“Larb you,” you kiss his cheek. He places the scrapbook aside and pulls you into a hug, kissing your forehead.

“I larb you more,” he sighs. 

“I thought that was our thing,” May pouts, causing everyone to chuckle at her comment.

“It can be our thing too,” Peter teases. “Is that all?” he sniffles, glancing back at you.

“One more thing,” you smile cheekily.

“Oh man,” he sighs, placing his forehead on your shoulder. “I don’t know if I can take it.”

“Morgan,” you look up, running your hands through Peter’s curls. She grins and grabs the last small box, bringing it to Peter.

He looks up and smiles, silently thanking her. “You want to help me open it?” he asks her. She nods and sits on his lap, helping him pull away the ribbon. As they both do so, the box falls and reveals the gift your mom once gifted your dad, then to you. Peter covers his mouth, “No, I can’t-”

“Peter,” you shake your head.

He sniffs once again, tears beginning to stream down his cheeks as he glances at the glass case with your dad’s arc reactor inside. He glances down at the words surrounding the arc reactor, “Proof that Tony Stark has a Heart,” he sobs.

You glance up seeing that your mom smiles sadly, wiping away some tears. “Happy birthday,” you repeat, kissing his cheek.

“Why are you giving this to me?” he stammers, hugging Morgan back as she hugs him close, nuzzling her head into his neck.

“Mom, Morgan and I already have many parts of dad with us. You don’t have as much and we all know how much he meant to you. You really are a part of our family too Peter, and I felt like you deserved this. Now you can see that his heart also belongs with you,” you smile warmly, cupping his cheek and wiping his tears away.

Everyone watches the heart-touching moment unravel, a sad yet understanding smile appearing on their faces. “I love you. I love all of you, and you,” he pokes Morgan’s nose, causing her to giggle.

“We love you too Peter,” everyone chimes in.

“I love you more,” you whisper, kissing his nose.

“I love you 3000,” Morgan pouts, playing with his shirt. You and Peter look at each other with sad smiles.

“I love you 3000 too.”

tagging some mutuals who might be interested! @ariistotles @cosmicholland @petersholland @tonguetiedholland @theamazingtomholland @tombrina @spideyyeet @toms-gf @peterspideysstuff @chloecreatesfictions @mcdwcman @hollandsrecs @the-salty-asian @fallinfortom @hermayone @allegra-writes @waitimcomingtoo @futuremrspcy @dreamofaprilsblog @t-lostinmendes @musicalkeys @icyhollands @beverlyparkerr​ @marvelhoesworld​

[kaistarus]

Surprise First Dates

Pairing: Nishinoya X Reader

Words: 3.9K

Summary: Noya wants your first date to be a surprise. His plans have a track record for ending in worst case scenario, so fingers crossed your night doesn’t end in complete disaster.

Notes: This could be thought of as a sequel to this fic, although you don’t need to read it to enjoy this one. It ended up pretty up a little long... but I love Noya so what can I say. It was bound to happen :)

Masterlist // Ko-Fi

You kept your eyes glued to the sidewalk as you walked beside Noya on a late autumn night. In your fall jacket pockets you fiddled with the ends of your sleeves in an attempt to calm the irregular beating of your heart. Internally, you cursed yourself for behaving so awkwardly.

Briefly you glanced over to Noya to see how he was fairing, but tore your eyes away when they met his curious amber stare dead on. In your peripheral you saw him tighten his grip on the straps of his backpack he’d brought for some reason before clearing his throat.

“You, uh, look really pretty by the way.”

“Oh, um, thank you,” your cheeks warmed and you squeezed your eyes shut. You needed to snap out of this before Noya thought something was wrong. “So, where are we going?”

“Surprise.”

You looked back over with a raised brow, “Well, what are we doing?”

“Surprise.”

“Okay, well what’s in the backpack?”

He met your suspicious gaze with a half-assed glare, “do you know what surprise means?”

“Obviously. I’m just trying to guess if it’s illegal or not.”

He scoffed. “Like I would ever do something illegal.”

You deadpanned at his response and he smirked back with a mischievous glint in his eyes that left you all kinds of suspicious. The only thing you knew about this date was that he seemed really panicked yesterday when the forecast said it might rain. As you scanned the sky now, however, there wasn’t a cloud in sight. There was a bit of a chilled breeze, but that was to be expected this time of year.

“So…” Noya picked at the straps hanging down on the backpack, “how was your day?”

“It was good,” you smiled to yourself and kicked a small rock that appeared in your path. “I chose the book I’m gonna write about for the essay we have for Tuesday. Haven’t actually started it though.”

Noya whipped his head toward you with his eyes wide. “We have an essay!? What are you-” He froze in realization and slowly turned back toward his shoes. “I mean… Yeah, heh, I haven’t started that either.”

You bit your bottom lip to hold back a laugh and nodded shortly. The path you were taking started to become a little too familiar; you'd recognized it as one you took nearly every day. Although it wouldn’t make sense for Noya to be taking you there...

“So, how’s practice going? You have nationals soon, right?”

“It’s awesome!” A huge smile covered his face. “I’ve been practicing overhand receives and Rolling Thunder, of course. Kageyama, Shoyo, and Four Eyes were selected for training camps which is good for us-well, Shoyo didn’t. This guy snuck in, which is fucking hilarious and I’m so proud of him. Daichi was pissed though, holy shit.”

You smiled fondly as he ranted on which seemed to throw him off once he realized how animated he’d become. His cheeks turned pink when he turned to you and he rubbed the back of his neck. “Sorry. I mean, it’s all good. I think we have a shot of doing really good this year.”

“That’s awesome,” you gave him a lopsided smile. “I can’t wait to watch you.”

“Really? You’re coming?”

“I mean, is that okay?”

“Yeah, that’s more than okay.” You watched him smile to himself as he examined the path ahead. “I just wasn’t sure if you’d want to.”

“Of course I do.” You picked at the material of your sleeves again as your heart rate increased. “Hey, what’s a Rolling Thunder?”

“Oh, it’s when I receive the ball with one arm and then I… on the... “ He grimaced, “you know what? Nevermind.”

You raised an eyebrow, but decided it wasn’t worth pressing the matter. The school’s main building came into view in the distance, so it turned out you were right. He had been leading you toward school.

“I thought you didn’t like school?”

“Oh I hate school with every fiber of my being,” Noya confirmed before pulling a set of keys from his jacket, “but we’re not heading there.”

You looked at him wearily, but followed him past the hauntingly empty main building. Realization only hit you when you began cutting through the courtyard toward the athletics area. “Are we breaking into the volleyball gym?”

“It’s not breaking in if I have the key,” he said confidently, the keys jingling as he spun them around his finger. You hummed doubtfully at his unsound logic.

“You normally carry the gym key?”

“It’s usually Daichi, but he trusts me.” He said while you continued eyeing him with disbelief. “Fine, I agreed to finish late night cleaning for the next few weeks.”

“Gross,” you grimaced.

“Yeah, but it’s worth it.”

A smile crept onto your face as you watched Noya unlock the doors to the gymnasium-only failing three times before finding the right key. Noya bowed like a mock gentleman to gesture you into the gym, and you briefly wondered what could be so exciting about the volleyball gymnasium at night. Especially interesting enough that he would offer to do cleaning.

You bent down to slide your feet out of your outdoor shoes-setting them aside-before stepping onto the gym’s linoleum flooring before addressing Noya, “are we playing volleyball or something?”

It was really the only conclusion you could come to as you observed the room illuminated solely by the moonlight outside; the barred windows casting elongated shadows on the floor. It was eerie seeing the place normally filled with rambunctious boys so silent.

“Nah, I’m all volleyballed out for today,” Noya claimed, seated at the entrance to pull his sneakers off. “Besides, I’ve got tons of my own stuff at home, so we can do that anytime we want.”

Your chest tightened at the implication of his words, but his expression seemed nonchalant as he strolled past you toward a staircase that led to the overhang. Maybe he meant friends hanging out and playing volleyball together and you were the one who jumped to the dating conclusion. A blush crept up your neck as you focused intently on the hood of his sweatshirt while trailing behind him.

You needed to calm down. You weren’t even halfway through the first date.

You snuck a glance down at his free hand that swung carelessly beside him and wondered if it would be weird for you to grab it. People held hands on dates, right? Not that you had been on one, but that definitely was something that went along with dates. He was probably expecting it to happen too...

You furrowed your brow while probably overthinking something miniscule when you abruptly ran into Noya’s back.

“Are you okay?”

“Yep,” you answered while rubbing your aching nose. You realized Noya had led you to a door you’d never noticed on the far end of the viewing area. “Are we, uh, going in there? Where’s this lead?”

“Roof.” He unlocked the door more easily this time, once again signaling for you to enter first. You cocked your head to the side, mulling his answer over before narrowing your eyes at him.

“We’re definitely not allowed up there, Noya.”

“I have the keys though.” He said, jingling them for emphasis.

You groaned while debating the pros and cons of your situation. Cons were getting caught could get you in serious trouble with the school, while pros were you would get to continue your date with Noya. You let out a deep sigh before taking the first step up the staircase followed by Noya’s triumphant fist pump. You rolled your eyes fondly at how much of a freaking dork he was, but it still made your chest warm.

You were so screwed.

You opened the door at the top of the staircase with a nod of acceptance. The breeze was way chillier at that higher level and you wrapped your arms around yourself after stepping your socked-feet onto the frigid concrete roof. You made your way to the metal railing, which stung your hands at how cold it was as you looked over your small prefecture. The lights illuminated the darkness and even from this height you could admire how the street lamps decorated the dark.

“Okay, I’ll give. This is pretty awesome,” you looked over your shoulder adorning a smile that turned to confusion when you saw Noya in the center of the roof opening his backpack. “What are you doing?”

“Stuff,” he muttered, pulling out a folded piece of cotton fabric from his bag. You watched him puzzled as he shook it open to reveal a large blanket-dark red with volleyballs everywhere-and spread it across the ground.

You walked up to him as he kneeled down to straighten it all out and smirked, “cute blanket.” You teased.

“Shut up, my sister got it for me.” he grumbled, which only made you smile wider. Your cheeks were beginning to hurt with how much you’d been smiling that night.

After nodding to himself that the blanket was to his satisfaction Noya laid down, glanced up at you, and patted a space beside him. You tilted your head in confusion, but followed his lead by crawling near him and lying on your back.

A few moments of silence passed and you glanced over to Noya. His face was bright red and you furrowed your brow, puzzled. You turned back toward the sky to mull over your thoughts. Why was Noya so nervous all of a sudden? He’d been completely fine all night. If anything you’d been the one who was a nervous wreck.

You took a deep breath and just let yourself admire how beautiful the moon was. It was nearly full so it was bright enough that you go without a flashlight, but not enough to overpower the stars that speckled the ebony sky. You were fortunate to live in a smaller prefecture and not somewhere like Tokyo-even the smallest stars could shine bright in your sky.

You really had gotten lucky with the change in weather. It was a perfect night for-

 “Are we stargazing?” You asked, whipping your head toward him so fast you nearly got whiplash. His mouth was set into a straight line and he nodded slowly while avoiding your eyes. Your jaw fell slack at the admission. “Shut. Up.”

“I didn’t say anything,” He said, his tone offended when he turned to you with a scrunched up nose.

“Sorry, that’s not what I-” You flopped back onto your back and let out a breathy laugh. “I’m just surprised.”

“Oh… a good surprised?”

“Yeah.”

“Cool.”

You heard the smile in his voice and it set off a flurry of butterflies in your stomach. For someone who you’d tried to convince yourself you hadn’t liked he was having an obnoxious affect on you tonight. You had an arm slung over your stomach while the other laid limply on the blanket and when you peeked down you noticed his was lying conspicuously close to yours, drumming his fingers anxiously against the ground.

You weren’t stupid. You could connect dots. You glared at your own hand as you begged it to move just several inches over, and cursed every second that it wouldn’t. You sighed in defeat and a shot of panic pulsed through you when Noya chuckled.

“What are you doing?”

You looked at his amused half-smile nervously, “what do you mean?”

“You looked like you were trying to poop.” Noya laughed lightly causing a blush to cover your face and you pulled that hand away embarrassed. His eyes widened at your reaction, “but like in a cute way.”

“Poop in a cute way?” You asked, dumbfounded at the concept.

“Yes?” He cringed at his answer before sighing and poking you in the bicep with puppy-dog eyes. “I’m sorry. Can you please put your hand back? I was trying to nonchalantly hold it after fifteen minutes of awkward tension.”

You pretended to contemplate before lying it back on the blanket. Instead of the promised fifteen minutes though Noya just grabbed your hand unexpectedly and your chest tightened in surprise. Your heart exploded at how weird it felt-not in a bad way, but in a comfortable and normal way. You liked how easily his fingers fit interlocked with yours and you nibbled on your bottom lip to stop yourself from smiling like an absolute idiot.

“Want to see something really impressive?”

You hummed in agreeance, not trusting yourself to form proper sentences at the moment, and saw Noya point to the sky in your peripheral vision.

“So that really bright one. That’s the end of the little dipper,” He said with a nervous tint to his voice. “Which is kind of basic, but there are cooler ones like cygnus which is really just a sky umbrella. That’s those two over there for the bottom...” he pointed around while continuing to describe the sky, looking over every few moments to make sure you were following. You nodded in acknowledgment when you found the ones he spoke about and your heart skipped at the excited smile that would filter onto his face.

“My favorite is triangulum though because what kind of constellation is a triangle? Also, did you know Hercules is just a bunch of squiggles?” He scoffed while drawing a pattern into the sky with one eye closed. “Like, he’s a Disney hero. You’d think he’d get something cooler than that.”

“How do you know this?” You eventually asked, rolling onto your side to admire how nice he looked illuminated by the soft light cast from the moon. His hand in yours flexed and he turned toward you with a nervous smile.

“Would you believe that I have a random interest in stars that no one’s ever known about?”

“Not particularly.”

He laughed nervously and began fiddling with the blonde part of his hair, then eyed you carefully. “Promise you won’t laugh?”

You chewed on the inside of your cheek while you mulled it over, “I suppose.”

He rolled onto his side, as well, and you gave his hand a light squeeze for encouragement. “I may or may not have studied the constellations.”

Your eyebrows shot to your hairline at the confession, “why would you--you hate homework.”

“It wasn’t homework,” he rolled his eyes. “I just… really wanted to impress you.” He dragged a hand down his face. “I don’t know. Now it sounds stupid.”

“Noya…” You brought your conjoined hands forward to softly press your fist against his face, smushing his cheek. “I already think you’re cool.”

“Wait, seriously?” He leaned into your knuckles with a confused brow raised. “Are you sure?”

“Yes,” you laughed.

He let his eyes fall closed with a breathy laugh. As he nuzzled gently against your hand you let yourself truly live in the moment, take in the serene smile on his face and feel the softness of his cheek against your skin. It was so surreal seeing him calm like this-a complete flip from his usual chaotic behavior at school. Being able to see him truly at peace like this filled your chest with a sense of pride.

“I know I’m not like the best at all of this, but I…” An eye peeked open as he spoke and you felt yourself tensing to combat the nervousness in his voice. “I really want to try.”

His sudden confession hit you like a train and you fumbled over the right thing to say, but the words you wanted were stuck in your throat.

“Sorry, I shouldn’t have-” He winced at himself. “It’s just I like you and I’m having a lot of fun so… but I understand if you don’t like me like-”

“You really like me?” You asked, hopefully. “You mean it, no bull shit?”

His eyebrows rose and he looked absolutely baffled. He released your hand-your heart sunk at the sudden cold-but he quickly reclaimed it, cradling the back while he pressed it against the center of his chest. You looked up in surprise when you felt his heart pounding rapidly against your palm. He stared back at you with a determined gleam in his eyes, but his cheeks were a rosey shade of pink.

“No bull shit.”

He looked at you so earnestly and all you could was stare back in awe. This idiot just barrelled through every ounce of nerve he had and it was all you could do to maintain eye contact. You felt his grip loosening as the hope leaked from his eyes with each second you remained silent. After everything he’d done-the surprise date, studying to impress you, trying to ask you out again-there’s no way you would be the reason this didn’t work out.

Your gaze flickered down to his lips as they moved quickly with nervous chatter that you were too in your head to hear. He deserved something equally bold, you thought, as your hand resting on his chest fisted the material of his sweatshirt, beginning to pull him forward.

“But my sister was like, ‘Yuu no one will like you if you can’t match your socks’ and I was like ‘get out of the bathroom I’m trying to take a-” He paused with a deer-in-headlights stare as you began leaning toward him. “Are you about to punch me?”

You blinked in surprise at his conclusion. “What?”

“Oh my god, were you going to kiss me?” His mouth went slack as a blush crept onto your cheeks. “Holy fuck. Okay, wait-no, don’t wait. I’m ready-wait-I’ve never kissed anyone so don’t have high expecta-”

You rolled your eyes before leaning the rest of the way to press your lips against his. The angle was pretty awkward, your bicep hurt from the awkward position you were propping yourself into, but it was definitely your new favorite way of shutting him up. The kiss probably would have been better if Noya wasn’t all tensed up and not participating though.

When you pulled back you were comforted that Noya’s face was equally as crimson as yours probably was, except he was completely spaced out. You cocked your head and waved a hand in front of his face, jumping in surprise when he jolted up to sitting.

“That wasn’t fair,” he said, pointing an accusatory finger down at you. “I wasn’t ready.”

“Noya, you literally said, ‘I’m ready’.” You snorted, pushing yourself up to sit cross-legged across from him.

“Yeah, but I was still talking!” He said frantically, leaning close into your personal bubble.

“You’re always talking,” you pushed his face back, but he grabbed your hand with pleading eyes. Your heart was fighting hard to beat out of your ribcage from the kiss alone and him being this close was going to give you cardiac arrest.

“Well, I always have something important to say.”

You shook free of his grip and flopped onto your back again. It was your easiest escape route from the conversation. If you had to keep looking at him you were probably going to pass out or something pathetic.

You tried to calm yourself by searching for one of the constellations Noya had explained to you earlier in the night, but was rudely interrupted when Noya’s face replaced the sky. You took a sharp inhale when he placed his hands on either side of your head to help prop himself above you. His gaze dragged slowly across your face with hooded eyes and you decided that he really was intent on killing you that night.

He opened and closed his mouth several times before finally, barely above a whisper, he asked, “can I kiss you?”

Before you could even finish nodding he was pressing his lips against yours. Your eyes widened in surprise, but you quickly sunk into the moment absorbed in the contrast now that you were both fully participating.

As his lips moved slowly against yours you anxiously struggled with what you were supposed to do with your arms. He had shifted onto his forearms so the warmth from his chest radiated across your own, and as your heartbeat in a frenzy you wondered if he could feel it’s rhythm every time your chests pressed together. His fingers became interwoven in your hair and instinctually you gripped at the cotton fabric near his waist to keep yourself grounded.

You realized then that these careful, long kisses with Noya under the moon’s glow might be the most romantic moments in your entire life.

Eventually you had to pull apart, only enough to lay your foreheads against each other while taking exhausted breaths. When your eyes met you both took a moment to take each other in before he broke out into a dopey smile that you couldn’t help but mirror.

“So,” he started casually. “Does this mean you like me too?”

“No, Noya,” you began sarcastically, bringing your hands up to smash his cheeks together. “I spend all of my Saturday’s making out with random people on rooftops.”

“Well, I don’t know.” He gave a half-assed glare that did no damage with his face smushed together. “I just want to make sure I don’t misread anything.”

“I don’t know how you could possibly misread this,” you snorted, dropping your arms back to your sides.

“You’d be surprised what I’m capable of,” he said, propping himself up while wiggling his eyebrows.

You snorted, pushing against his chest to roll him off of you which he did with an exaggerated whine. A bubble of laughter left you and your head rolled to the side to face him with a bright smile.

“I like you,” you clarified for him, chest tightening at the sun rivaling smile that filled his face. “A lot.”

“Cool,” he let out a breathy laugh and swung an arm over his eyes. You saw him biting down his lip while the corners of his mouth fought their way into a smile. The butterflies in your stomach were in a frenzy over how absolutely adorable he was. You still had a hard time processing that this was actually happening to you.

Noya then turned back to you with a more mischievous look in his eye, “you realize what this means, right?”

“No?”

“It means I get to tell everyone that you have a crush on me,” he smirked, seeming incredibly satisfied with himself.

“Oh no,” your hand flew to your mouth in mock horror, “but my reputation.”

“If anything, I’m going to improve your reputation tenfold.” He rolled onto his stomach so he could grab one of your hands again which you offered to him willingly. Noya’s adoring smile as he played with your fingers made it hard to keep teasing him.

“That’s the opposite of what’s going to happen,” you watched him fondly and your clearly content demeanor didn’t match the mocking words. “Is it too late to take it all back?”

“Oh yeah,” he said, interlocking your fingers together. “You like me. I heard it, and now I’m going to brag about it to anyone within hearing distance.”

“No,” you whined. “You’re the worst.”

“Probably,” He laughed, dragging your conjoined hands to rub the back of your hand against his cheek, “but you get to deal with me now.”

Your eyes softened as he nuzzled against your hand. You couldn’t argue with him on that one, and truth be told you didn’t even hate the idea of everyone knowing about your feelings for Noya. At that moment, you sort of wanted to scream about them over the gymnasium rooftop’s railings for all of Miyagi to hear about.

So, if he wanted to tell every person he ran into that he was officially your problem then who were you to stop him.

[guiltydumpling]

The Guard: Chapter 5

[KUVIRA X READER ROYAL AU]

Summary: “I called you all here to announce that we have a guest arriving sometime later today. Princess Y/N of the Kingdom of Elysian” The people in the throne room looked at one another confusingly. “Their palace was under sieged and the king had to send the princess away to keep her safe from any assassination attempts. Their kingdom has done a lot for us and has proven to be great allies for generations. She’s come a long way and has been traveling for a week, I expect nothing less than for all of you to treat her as you do a member of the royal family and to attend to everything and anything, she might ask for… This poor child has already been through too much.” There was silence in the throne room for a while, as they let the information sink in. “Dismissed.”

A/N: Hi beautiful beings <3 Holy crap i’m back and I know it took me like a thousand years to update and I really have no excuse for that but I’ve been receiving messages and question about whether or not I will continue this story and guess what... YES I WILL! there’s only about 2 chapters left after this and an epilogue so watch out for that and thank you so much for the support! This is my first ever fic so I never expected to get this much love from the readers! anyway... Enjoy ;)

Word Count: 4.7k

~ ~ ~

He’s dead… your father is dead. They told you he was poisoned by the wine that was served during the peace negotiation meeting, that the poison didn’t take effect until he was brought into his chambers for the night and his mouth started to foam, blood coming out of his nose and ears, before he collapsed on the floor and that his body wasn’t discovered until the next morning when his servants would usually get him ready for the day. You were saddened by your father’s death but mostly angered.

You were sat on the training grounds on the bench where you first opened up to Kuvira about your kingdom’s situation. You felt your eyes burn from all the tears you have shed for not only your father but your home. You stared at the stars that lit up the dark sky and all you could think about in this moment was your sister. How different things would be if she were still here you thought.

A few moments later and you did not move from your position when you hear someone walking towards you. You didn’t have to turn around to see who it was because you already knew who would be stupid enough or brave enough or both, to follow you when you clearly wanted to be alone.

“I’m sorry about your father” Kuvira spoke a few feet from where you were sitting.

“Why are you sorry? You weren’t the one that killed him” you said coldly. All manners and sensitivity abandoned.

She didn’t speak for a while and you turned your head to finally meet her eyes. They were sad and full of worry for you and somehow you felt a pang of guilt, she just wanted to be there for you. “Sit with me?” you ask her in a softer tone, and she does. You grab her hand to intertwine your fingers with her and you place it on your lap turning your attention back to the stars as you both sat there quietly.

Kuvira loved to banter and tease, it was basically her form of endearment not only towards you but to everyone around her that she cared about. Despite that, she knows exactly when you just needed silence and her presence alone. This was one of those times and you were so thankful for that.

“I guess I’m a queen now” you say as a matter of fact and she hums in response.

“I would be lying if I said that I never wanted to be queen. I’ve thought about it once or twice when I was a stupid child, but I would always push the thought back when I would come to the realization of what exactly being queen would cost me.” And you were right. It cost you everything. Your sister, your father, your home, your happiness, your freedom, everything.

“Have I ever told you about my sister?” you asked her, not tearing your eyes away from the sky.

“No. But I know you two were close” She says

“We were.” You gently smiled at the memory of you and your sister running around court, hiding from your guards because all you wanted to do was play in the garden all day. You two were inseparable.

“My father would often joke about how we were practically joint at the hip.” You continue and you see Kuvira smile gently from your peripheral.

“We were both opposites in everything. From our duties, to our skills, even to our aspirations. You see, my sister loved being a firebender. You should have seen her when she first discovered her gift, she nearly burned down the garden.” You say with a slight laugh.

“Our father had her trained by the best masters in our kingdom and she became a master herself. She was stubborn as well, that’s what made her a great fighter. She was outspoken and rowdy and very much like my father when he was in his youth. Or at least that’s what our servants would tell me. I on the other hand took from my mother, I was quiet and timid, I devoured book after book, practiced the discipline of art and music, and I wanted pretty much nothing but to be able to see the world and its beauty and culture. That was my destiny. To share my gift of knowledge to the people around me, and hopefully contribute to it. However, my sister, was destined to stay in Elysian and be responsible for our family’s line and heritage. But she had other plans in mind. She wanted to become a soldier, she wanted to fight, and that meant having to renounce the family name and her title in order to do so, and you can only imagine how furious father was when she told him. They got into a huge fight after that conversation and they barely talked afterwards. That’s when their relationship started to wither. She would often escape at night to go to town and observe civilians living their life according to their will, she told me it was fascinating, and she was jealous of them all, then she met this man. He was just a farmer’s son and he didn’t know the real identity of my sister, so he pursued her, and they fell in love. But one of the roaming soldiers caught them half undressed in one of the stables behind the man’s home and they dragged the man away for violating her highness.” You paused for a while, remember the poor man’s face, he was so terrified and clueless at the time. Dragged in chains, when all he was doing was spending the night with the woman he loved and thought he knew.

“They sentenced him to be exiled and had his family’s land stripped from them as payment for dishonoring royal blood with peasant hands. I heard his father was killed in an alley by angry citizens because of the deeds of his own son, and that his mother died from a disease that could not be treated because they no longer had the means to pay for medication, leaving his little sister to sell herself to desperate low-life men just to be able to fill her stomach. My sister had every right to be furious. She was put under supervision the entire day and had the guards stationed in her chambers doubled at night. Chantou ordered the exile sentence of the man and told my father that he should find my sister a husband soon so that this kind of thing does not happen again. And that’s what my father did. He wrote a proposal to one of our allies and they agreed that marrying their offspring would make a better knot than any treaty would.” You shake your head in disapproval of the memories and let out a sigh of pity for your sister.

“Months passed and her marriage was nearing. She barely left her room so I only saw her once a week at best, and whenever she would have conversations with my father it would end in a screaming match or at least one of them storming out of the room. My father believed that what he was doing was for the best, or at least that’s what he told himself when Chantou was basically gaslighting my father into forcing my sister into submission… The night before her wedding, she didn’t leave her room the entire day. It was late at night when I heard a crash in her room since I was only across the hall from her. When I tried to check on her myself, she was being held down by two of the guards and she was thrashing around, blood on her feet and knuckles while her handmaiden tried to calm her down. She was having a meltdown basically. When she saw me enter the room, she settled down quite bit and just started crying hysterically while her handmaiden looked at me with pleading eyes not knowing what to do anymore. The room was a mess, there were shards of glass on the floor and flipped furniture but all I could think about was how I barely recognized her. She was much thinner, her eyes were circled dark, and her hair was all over her face. I felt so bad for her.” You say feeling your chest tighten.

“I told the guards to let her go and that I would take care of her which immediately got her to finally settle down and I had her handmaiden and guards leave us alone so I could personally attend to her. Which I did. None of us spoke as I cleaned her up and put her in bed before I attempted to clean up the mess, she made in her room. I didn’t want to leave her just in case she woke up and had an episode again, so I decided to sleep on the couch of her room. A few moments later I was woken up by a cold breeze and when I opened my eyes, I saw the balcony window wide open and I immediately searched for my sister on her bed, but she wasn’t there anymore.” You feel the tears start to brim in your eyes, but you held it down not wanting to cry anymore.

“I immediately got up and went straight to the balcony and that was when I saw her… just standing still on the railings, wind blowing her nightgown and unkempt hair. I didn’t know what to do and I… I was frozen in place. But I called her, and she looked back at me with tears in her emotionless eyes as she told me she loved me. I told her I loved her back and that I would always be there for her… I was begging her to come down from the railing, but she just stared at me…then she asked me if I really loved her, which of course I said yes to, and then she smiled, for the first time since the day of her lover’s exile she smiled… the only reply she gave me was “good. Then take care of everything for me okay?” those were her last words and she just… jumped. And I don’t remember much but I think I was screaming? Or maybe I was trying to, but nothing seemed to come out. But I passed out on the balcony and woke up in my room with my father sitting on the foot of my bed only to tell me that my sister committed suicide.” You finish, and you swallow the lump in your throat as you held Kuvira’s hand tighter.

“Is that why your sister’s death took such a big toll on your father? Perhaps he felt like it was his fault?” She asked carefully and you nod your head to confirm.

As much as Kuvira felt bad for your sister she couldn’t help but feel her blood boil. How could your sister do that to you? Leave all the mess she created to you? Even the audacity to take her life in front of you while you were begging her not to. Why did everything have to fall on your shoulders?

And now your father is gone, your home is in a civil war, and you were blaming yourself for everything when none of this was ever in your control. You had such big dreams, and you had such a big heart. Why is that all being wasted on a mistake you didn’t make?

Call Kuvira biased, but you absolutely did not deserve any of this.

After a while you chuckled lightly at the stars before you, causing Kuvira to raise an eyebrow at you. “What’s so funny?” she asks, and you simply shrug

“When my sister died, I was so angry… I wanted to lash out on everyone and everything but my father… He was silent. I would often catch him sitting on my sister’s balcony at night staring at the sky and when I asked him why, he told me that he used to do that too when my mother passed away. He said that our ancestors used to say that when somebody we love crosses the afterlife, they become our guardians… and the stars we see are actually their eyes looking down on us from the heavens.” You explain

“That’s beautiful” She comments

“It’s bullshit” you state abruptly. “I always thought it was stupid, something old people would say to comfort the young when they would lose someone” you paused, eyes still searching the stars. “But why is it that all I’m trying to do right now is look for their eyes?” you wonder out loud. Desperation perhaps? You wanted a sign, anything, that will indicate what to do next. If the stars were really your loved ones watching over you, then why has nothing in your life worked out for you?

You felt alone. Then you turn to the person beside you. The person who was still holding your trembling hands and sat beside you in your darkest moment and will continue to do so as long you allow her to. You weren’t alone. You had her. She was the only one you had.

You turn to her, taking your free hand, you bring it to her face and slowly caress her cheek. She looks at you with a slight confusion at the sudden affection but places hand above yours anyway.

“Promise me something.” You whisper to her “Promise me that your different. That you’ll stay… Promise me you won’t leave me?” you whisper in a desperate tone, tears threatening to fall from your eyes and Kuvir smiles gently at you. “I love you. Spirits know how much I do… I promise I’ll never leave you.” Kuvira whispered back, lump forming in her throat.

She promised you that she will never leave you and she knew in her heart and her soul that she never could even if she tried. But everything’s different now. You had duties; you were queen. No amount of love in this stupid world could ever provide you a legitimate heir with her. It was you who had to leave her.

She pulled you into a hug and you pressed your cheeks against her chest, letting your tears flow freely once more. “I love you so much” you sniffled.

~ ~ ~

You were now seated on the edge of your bed with Kuvira sprawled on the sheets beside you.

“I think the Avatar may be paying us a visit tomorrow” She stated

“Yeah?” You asked unconsciously eyes glued to your lap. You feel Kuvira shift from her initial position to crawl over to your side on the bed before snaking her arms round your waist, resting her chin on your shoulder. “hey…” she whispered gently, and you hummed in response, still not moving a muscle.

“You need to rest” she said her tone laced with concern for you.

You did need rest. Your eyes were sore from crying and you simply don’t have enough energy to even hug Kuvira back. You were so tired.

You nodded you head and turn your face towards her and kissed her cheek as you smile gently at the woman. “Scoot over” you say, and she does exactly that.

You laid under the covers in the dark, your legs tangled with Kuvira’s arms wrapped around you as you rest your head on her chest feeling her calming breath.

“What are you thinking about?” you asked after a few moments of silence.

“Honestly? Your guard.” She said with a slight chuckle

“What about him?” you asked in curiosity

“He must be wondering why I still have not left your room” she responded, and you gave a light laugh

“Don’t worry… He’s a great secret keeper” you assured her, and she simply nodded, trusting your judgement.

“Stay with me ‘til I wake up?” you asked her, and she lets out a sigh causing you to look up and meet her emerald eyes. “Please?” you pleaded, and she looks at you sadly, already giving you the answer to your question. “It’s fine.” You simply say turning away from her once more and you feel her hand gently caress you.

“You know I would if I could… please don’t be upset.” She explained and you simply shook your head

“No, I’m not upset… I understand you have your duties, it’s just… sad.” You explain

“Damn… love sucks.” Kuvira mutters and you couldn’t help but give light chuckle nodding your head in agreement.

“Yeah… it does.” You responded.

After a few moments you started to feel your eyes go droopy and you felt Kuvira’s breathing slow down as well. “Stay beside me in the meeting tomorrow, okay?” you muttered half asleep earning a hum of acknowledgment from Kuvira as you both gave in to the comfort of sleep.

~ ~ ~

You woke up the next morning from the sunlight peeking through your curtains and you slowly open your eyes. Instinctively, the first thing your body does is stretch your arm across your bed to Kuvira’s side only to feel a pang of disappointment when she was no longer there. You knew she wouldn’t be. But you couldn’t help but hope.

As per usual, Zhu Li helped you get ready for the day, dressing you in all black as a sign of grief and the next thing you know you were seated in the war room across the Avatar. Your guard and Empress Suyin were in the room as well, with Kuvira seated beside you.

“We received a message from Elysian, it’s addressed to you, your majesty.” Your guard starts, retrieving an envelope and handing it over to you.

The room was quiet while they patiently waited for you to finish the letter. It was from Chantou. And he was asking your hand in marriage. Why were you not surprised?

Chantou was not a nice man. He was greedy and always wanted what he could not have, but even though, he was smart about everything. All his moves calculated from the very beginning or you wouldn’t have been in this mess otherwise.

You knew exactly why he was asking your hand in marriage. Your marriage would make him legitimate because as of now, to the eyes of your people, he was a usurper, which was exactly what he was. But with you as rightful heir, Elysians will accept him. Your people loved the royal family and for a traitor like Chantou who did not have any claim to the throne, it was no question if the Elysian people might kill him themselves. He needed you. And as much is made your stomach churn, you needed him too. At least for now, as you try to claim your birth right. You needed the nobles on your side again, and right now, they were loyal to him.

You look up from the letter to meet 4 pair of eyes on you, eagerly waiting for you to tell them what was on it.

“Chantou’s asking my hand in marriage” you finally say, and their reaction were exactly what you expected. Confusion, anger, disgust, and for the woman beside you, fear.

“Like hell you would!” The avatar exclaimed but you simply kept quiet.

“He must be crazier than I thought if he thinks you are ever going to agree to that!” Kuvira commented but still, you remained silent. “Right?” she pressed, her eyes trying to meet yours, but you refuse. Instead, your eyes meet Suyin’s. She knew exactly what you were thinking, and she knew exactly why he was asking your hand in marriage. In her time as an empress, she has probably seen all kinds of tactics people use just to gain the power they didn’t deserve. This was one of them.

“Your majesty.” Kuvira speaks once more, this time in a lower more demanding tone and you finally meet her eyes.

“I’ve decided to accept it.” You finally say and together with the avatar and your guard, Kuvira give you a look of disbelief.

You decided to explain yourself and your decision to them. Talking to them about why he asked your hand in marriage and why you were willing to accept such terms. The Avatar, being her usual brash self, told you to just take Elysian back by force. But you rebutted by arguing that you did not have enough men or resources to do such thing. Meanwhile, Kuvira was kept silent.  Her jaws were clenched and was breathing heavily but you tried your best not pay much attention to it as you stood by your decision.

After a few moments of discussion Suyin finally speaks up. “Maybe we should give this a little more thought and process… Of course, I’m not suggesting that you have not your majesty” She said, careful to not offend you. “But perhaps its best if we let ourselves clear our heads and we can come back maybe later in the day to discuss your final decision. If you still wish to accept his proposal… then I personally will support, you.” She finishes and you give her a gentle smile.

You doubt you were going to change your mind but for everyone’s sake, you agreed and had dispersed.

~ ~ ~

You were near the training grounds shooting arrows to a target with your guard a few feet behind you. Shooting arrows used to be an activity that got your mind off of things, but now it just achingly reminds you of your father. A few shots later you heard steps coming towards you. You didn’t bother looking when you knew exactly who those footsteps belong to.

The footsteps came to a halt and you saw Kuvira’s figure in your peripheral. You already knew her purpose for finding you and you just honestly did not have the energy or the heart right now to tell her that you were going to push through your decision. Choosing to ignore her, you continue shooting arrows.

“Leave us.” Kuvira states, tone filled with authority. No wonder why the other guards around here are terrified of her. You thought.

The look at your guard to give a nod for approval and he distances himself from the two of you, far enough for conversation privacy but close enough that he can still keep his eyes on you.

“What do you want Kuvira?” you ask in the most neutral tone you could muster as you shot another arrow.

“Don’t act like you don’t know why I’m here Y/N” she answers, tone still laced with authority.

You took a deep breath before shooting another arrow. Bullseye. You put the bow down and turned to finally look at her. She was fuming. You couldn’t quite put your finger on the exact emotion she was expressing just yet, but you knew it was anything good.

You took a deep breath before answering her, “I’ve made up my mind. I’m going through with my decision. If you don’t like that, then leave.” You say, trying your hardest to not show any emotion. You couldn’t.

“How could you say that? To me, of all people! Do you honestly believe that marrying that son of a bitch is the only way out of this?!” She raises her voice taking a few steps towards you and you almost stepped back, but you held your ground.

“No! It’s not the only way! I can just easily declare a civil war right now and hold on to my pride and title as I let nameless soldiers die on the field while I sit in my chambers drinking tea waiting for a victory, I didn’t take part in! Or I can stop it. Right here. Right now. Without anybody else getting hurt!” You challenged her. It was true. You thought about the options you could take and it all just ended up either more people dying or simply losing. This wasn’t the only way to win back your kingdom, but it was the best way to do it.

“Then don’t.” Kuvira states and you raise a brow in confusion. “That’s what I just said… I don’t underst--what? Haven’t you been listening to what I’ve been saying since the meeting?!” you groan in frustration. Kuvira takes a step towards you not turning her eyes away from your evidently confused features.

“Don’t declare a civil war. Let us do it.” She explains and you feel your breath hitch. You shake your head and take a step back trying to process what she’s saying. “This is madness Kuvira… even for you…”

Having Zaofu declare war on behalf of your family was a huge risk to their empire. You can’t say the thought never crossed your mind when you arrived in Zaofu and you saw the thousands upon thousands of elite soldiers, bender and non-benders alike, not to mention the resources they have remaining stagnant. You knew that you had nothing to lose and that’s what makes declaring a war yourself moot, you had nothing to bargain with but your claim to the throne. How selfish do you have to be just to claim back your kingdom? Your home?

“You’ve seen Zaofu yourself your majesty, we have more strength and power than the wealthiest kingdoms combined. Declaring war on your behalf won’t even cost us half of our excess” She explains, basically confirming your theory. “And what of the empress? What will she have to say about this rash decision you are proposing to me?” you ask as a matter of fact. Your heart was racing, and your palms were getting clammy from this conversation. Why? You’ve yet to figure that out yourself.

“Su just lost one of her most loyal and strongest allies and her best friend. She’s not about to let the remaining daughter of the two people she cared about the most, to sell herself to a usurper when she gave her word that she will protect you at any cost.” Kuvira states and she takes your hand into hers eager to see your face to give her a hint of what you’re thinking right now. Your hands were trembling, and you were feeling guilt eat your heart and soul. Is this the cost for salvation? Selfish drive and wishful thinking? What would your father do? What would your mother say? What would your sister tell you?

You lightly shake your head, still not fully accepting this decision “no… I don- ugh! Spirits, I don’t know what to do!” you let out in frustration. And Kuvira put her index below your chin to gently tilt your head up to meet her gaze. “You are the smartest woman I know. You always know what to do…” She whispers and you feel tears forming when you let out a sigh.

You knew what to do. You just didn’t want to admit it. Your first plan had a lot of flaws in it to start with. Chantou could just easily poison you like he did with your father and declare you died of illness to your people after he gains their favor. You would’ve never ceased the throne back, not to mention you had to have eyes at the back of your head 24/7 knowing that nobody was loyal to you in the palace anymore.

Kuvira’s proposal was exactly what you needed. A display of external power and allies. A reminder to Chantou that his claim to Elysia threatened our close powerful allies, and that they would not sit idly by as they watch their sister kingdom perish. It was the right thing to do.

It’s the right thing to do.

Kuvira cups your face into her hands, and you are forced to look at her once more. “Su loves you. Your people love you. I love you. And I know that your father would never want you to go through your original plan because he died to save you and Elysia. Please… Let Zaofu fight for you… Let me fight for you”

You feel the tears forming in your eyes cascade down your face and you give her a gentle smile. The first time you did anything for yourself was when you confessed your love to Kuvira. And now… you’re letting yourself be selfish once more.

“Okay.” You finally answer.

[under-the-cherrytree]

The Phantom of the Opera chapter 2❣︎

Phantom Hanako x reader

Previous chapter (chapter 1)

A/n: Lets be honest, I didn't expect to continue this-

I didn't know what to do for chapter 2 so I just did whatever came to mind...

I do know what is going to happen in chapter 3 tho!

Anyways, I hope you enjoy and have a good day or night!

You put your hand on the stair railing leading to the top floor where the curtain fell.

“Don't worry… there is nothing up there” You reassured yourself. Before you could take a step you felt someone put a hand on your shoulder causing you to jump.

“Oh sorry for scaring you! You’re Y/n l/n, right?” The stranger asked.

“Yeah that me… and you are..?” You turned to the boy. He had light orange hair and bright blue eyes and was holding what looked like an umbrella.

“I’m Kou! Kou Minamoto!”

“Oh you are the manager's younger brother! Sorry for not recognizing you sooner!”

“It's fine, It's not like I perform on stage or anything” He nervously laughed.

“Do you need anything?” You asked.

“Oh not really, I just wanted to know if we could perhaps be friends!” His cheeks turned pink and he looked down. He reminded you of a kid.

“Of course!” You smiled.

“Y/n!! Kou!!” The cream haired girl called out to us.

“Oh hey Nene.” You turned to her.

“Mitsuba is on his way to the hospital… did you see what happened Kou?” She asked.

“Yeah, it was crazy…” Kou looked at me with a worried expression. “Well lets get going now, I bet they will want us in the front of the stage!”

“Yeah!” Yashiro said, “Lets go!”

“I’ll be right there, give me a second okay?” I nervously smiled.

“Okay!” Yashiro grabbed Kou’s hand causing him to turn red and she ran off with him.

You walked up a one of the stair steps, determination on your face. You looked up and your eyes widened. A small envelope fell from the top floor. You picked it up and opened it.

“Dear Y/n,

I thought I told you, you were going to be that star of the show.

Please don't disappoint.

- The Phantom of the Opera”

You puffed your cheeks out in annoyance.

“Well I don’t want to be the star!” You shouted, throwing the envelope on the ground. You ran to the front of the stage, meeting with Kou and Yashiro.

“So do you know who might perform for the opera next week?” You asked Kou.

“Uhm… no not really…!” Kou threw his hands up in defence. “But most likely Yashiro, since she is the understudy of Mitsuba. But are you interested in doing it at all Y/n?”

Interested? Why is he asking me? I’m just a ballerina, nothing special. I can be replaced easily.

“No, I’m not really into the whole performing thing..!” You nervously laughed.

“Oh, okay…” Kou kept his eyes on you.

“Yeah I can do it!” Yashiro's eyes lit up. “And the boys will notice me and I will be popular and hopefully manager Teru will notice me as well-”

“My brother?” Kou turned to her in shock.

“ECK-! I FORGOT HE WAS YOUR BROTHER-” Yashiro was flustered. “IT’S NOTHING KOU! DON’T WORRY ABOUT IT!! PLEASE DONT TELL HIM!!!” She was begging on her knees giving him puppy dog eyes.

“I-I won’t…” Kou blushed and looked away.

“You're acting like he doesn’t already know you are obsessed with him…” I face palmed.

“Hello everyone!” The owner of the voice placed his hand on my shoulder. I turned to see manager Teru with a wide smile on his face.

“Teru-nii!” Kou smiled.

“M-manager Minamoto-!!” Yashiro blushed madly.

“Oh Yashiro, I need to tell you something important! I’m sorry if I startled you!” He apologized.

“I-It’s fine!” Yashiro nodded her head rapidly.

“Well, Yashiro, you’re going to be the replacement for Mitsuba on stage.”

“Okay! I won’t let you down Manager Minamoto!”

“I hope you won’t…” Teru turned to you, hand still on your shoulder, he was a little too close.

“I will be seeing more of you soon…” He whispered in your ear before letting you go and walking off the stage.

‘Seeing more of me…? What does that mean…’ You thought as you watched him enter his office. Kou noticed your weird expression and pulled you out of your thoughts.

“H-hey Y/n..! So Yashiro seems pretty happy about this, has she always been like this?” Kou pointed to Yashiro who was rambling to herself about falling in love with some prince on set.

“Yeah, well for as long as I could remember… I knew Nene for a while now and she has always been like this.” You sighed.

“I think it’s kind of cute-” Kou stopped himself from finishing his sentence but you heard enough. You were going to tease him for it but was interrupted by the ballet teacher.

“That’s all for today ballerinas, you can go home now..” She spoke with such grace. The ballet teacher was the only person who actually acknowledged the ballerinas. She knew we were working hard even if we were just background dancers. She has even been seen as a mother figure to some of the ballerinas here… she was flawless.

“Y/n, can I talk to you for a minute?” She turned to you.

“Oh yeah sure…” You walked over to her waving bye to Kou. “What do you need Miss Sakura?”

“Did you fix the skirt that Akane requested you too repair?” She asked, concern in her green eyes.

“I did!” You smiled.

“That’s good. Are you going to stay late tonight as well?”

“Maybe…”

“Okay, I just wanted to know.” She lightly smiled “Stay in good health Y/n.”

“Okay… y-you too..!” You responded and she walked away.

That was… weird…

----

You hummed to yourself as you sketched the moon on a sheet of paper. It was dark so you could barely even see your drawing so you didn’t even know if it was good.

“I’ll find out tomorrow…” You sighed and stood up. You looked at the clock and it was 9, time for you to head home. You grabbed your bag and started to walk to the door then you remembered the experience from the night before. When you found the letter from the Phantom of the Opera.

Did you believe in the Phantom? No, that stupid. But… it wasn’t impossible. You have heard Sakura talk to the ballerinas about the phantom before. Does she believe in the phantom?

“Y/n~” A childish voice was heard. You looked around to see no one, but of course it was dark so you questioned if someone was actually there.

“Yes..?” You squinted your eyes but still saw no one. Suddenly the curtains of the stage opened and a little light entered the room. You saw a silhouette of a short boy. He wasn’t anyone you recognized.

“W-who are you..?” You asked.

“I’m a phantom of the opera!” He had a childish voice, he sounded around your age.

“The phantom of the opera…” You repeated, wide eyed.

“Yes! You can call me Tsukasa!”

Was he the one who has been sending you those two letters? Was he insane? You knew you needed to get out of there.

You took this opportunity to run. You approached the doors of the opera house but stopped when you felt a hand on your mouth.

“Shh my dear, we can’t have you running away now~ not when someone has taken quite an interest in you…” He whispered in your ear. Tears formed in the corner of your eyes as he placed two fingers on your forehead.

“Now go to sleep for me~”

[pocketseizure]

The Flower Thief

A young boy comes to Hyrule and meets a princess with a terrible destiny.

Or, Ganondorf visits Hyrule for the first time as a child and falls in love with the green and beautiful land, even as he is warned away by the woman who will become Zelda’s mother. 

This story was written for Ties of Time, an Ocarina of Time and Majora's Mask fanzine, which you can find on Twitter (here). The story is also (on AO3).

. . . . . . . . . .

Ganondorf had never been beyond the mountains separating the desert from the plains. The road from the fortress to the waystation was, if not well-traveled, safe enough for a child in the company of an escort. He’d crossed the bridge leading to the canyon pass a few times, always pausing to peer down through the railings at the great river rushing along the gully below, but this was the first time he was allowed to accompany a caravan through the Gerudo Valley pass and into Hyrule.

He thought he knew what to expect from Hyrule. He’d heard all manner of stories from travelers, and he was given Hylian books to study as he learned the language. Yet as the red earth and dry gravel gave way to healthy swards of grass, he could not open his eyes wide enough to take it all in. There was so much green, so much luxury. 

The climate changed as the caravan traveled east. The mornings were cool but not cold, and the days were warm but not hot. The sun was veiled by clouds that drifted like floating islands across the blue sea of the sky, dappling the light into gentle shadows.

Ganondorf was not prepared for the rain. Everyone took notice when the afternoon became dark and the air grew heavy, but no one seemed concerned. He was familiar with the storms that pummeled the open desert, fierce and veined with jagged lightning, and he was afraid of what the blanket of clouds might portend. He was even more afraid of the disdain of the adults, however, so he held his tongue. If he cried when the first drops fell on his skin, each tiny splash as soft as the finest silk, his tears went unremarked.

Vast fields spread before him as they rode east. Brightly colored wildflowers pushed their way through the tall grass on leafy stems, and the wind was fragrant with the sweet smell of growing things. The caravan turned north at the first ranch they encountered, skirting along the low fence marking its perimeter. Ganondorf was amazed to find that the crooked and neglected fenceposts were made of wood. He realized that, to the local farmers, timber must be far more common than stone. As their party joined the main road, the trees grew larger and the flowers became even more colorful. The early summer greenery seemed almost blasphemous in its profusion. Stalks of young wheat swayed in the breeze, and cows dotted the rolling plains.

At last, upon ascending the crest of a low hill, Ganondorf saw Hyrule Castle, its spires stretching bravely into the sky. This architectural feat would have been impossible in the desert, where the gale winds would quickly strip the tiles from the towers if lightning didn’t strike them first. The town spilling down from the castle walls was just as bold. Roads and houses spread along the wide valley of a river with no regard for how disaster might strike and send the water roiling from its banks at any given change of the weather. Hyrule was, he thought, a miracle.

Once the road approaching the castle town began to grow crowded, one of Ganondorf’s aunts pulled him aside as they watered their horses. “You must dress as we do,” she said. “The people of this kingdom are guided by superstition, and they will not look kindly on someone that they cannot fit into the stories they tell themselves. You will be in danger if anyone learns that you are different from us, and we may not always be able to protect you,” she warned him as she twisted his hair into a high ponytail and secured it with a jeweled band.

Taking care not to be noticed, Ganondorf exchanged his robes for loose pants and a sleeveless tunic. He had learned to appreciate being seen as special, but there had always been a part of him that wanted to dress like the girls his age. The thought occurred to him that perhaps it was only in Hyrule that he could be normal. Ganondorf resolved to use this situation to his advantage. He would break off from the group as soon as it was expedient to do so.

The women shed their travel cloaks in Castle Town as they merged into the throng of people converging in the central market plaza. Zora and Gorons jostled for place among the Hylians in front of the stalls, and Ganondorf spotted the leafy foliage of a few Deku Scrubs and even the broad shoulders of a Moblin. Almost no one paid any mind to the group of Gerudo that gradually split apart as they went their separate ways. A few people paused to cast glances in their direction, especially men, and Ganondorf’s companions seemed to enjoy the attention.

Ganondorf kept his own cloak drawn around his narrow shoulders. The bearded faces of Hylian men were strange to his eyes. He was disturbed by their large and clumsy hands, whose thick fingers sprouted coarse hair. Ganondorf didn’t want to attract their notice, and he was much more interested in seeing than being seen. He watched a team of laborers eating at the base of a tree emerging from the paving stones of the plaza, throwing their breadcrusts into a bed of flowers overgrown with weeds. In an alley leading away from the market, a woman emerged from her townhouse to throw water onto the cobblestones before whisking the puddle into a drain with a broom. And then, wonder of wonders, a fountain burbled its lazy jet of water toward the sky with no other purpose than to provide a pleasant breeze for the cat napping on its stone rim.

All of this was fascinating, yet Ganondorf was not satisfied. He wanted to see something even more rare and beautiful. If the town below the castle was filled with marvels, he could scarcely imagine what treasures might be contained within the castle itself.

It was not difficult to sneak past the guards posted along the outer wall. They were slow and he was small. Just to be safe, Ganondorf used his modest measure of magic to quiet his footsteps while shifting the color of his cloak to reflect his surroundings. He had a fair amount of practice evading the watchful eyes of his mothers and aunts, and he liked to think he was skilled at avoiding detection. Or perhaps it was simply the case that the soldiers standing at the castle gates did not expect anyone to enter. Perhaps they assumed that no one would dare.

The courtyard on the other side of the outer wall was surprisingly pedestrian. Wooden crates were piled near the servant entrances, and a small moat ran between uneven patches of grass that had been trampled by men and horses alike. Ganondorf challenged himself to make his way beyond the castle’s inner wall, which was somewhat trickier but not beyond his abilities. There wasn’t much to be seen here either, nothing more than a few narrow walkways lined with mossy stones sunken into the spongy earth between overgrown shrubs.

Ganondorf was disappointed. The curving rows of proud cypress trees surrounding the Gerudo fortress and the tiled mosaics glittering under its shaded awnings were much more impressive. Ganondorf paused at a muddy puddle lingering in the shadow of the castle’s mold-spotted wall. He debated whether to continue on or turn back, wondering if perhaps Hyrule’s beauty lay more in its wilderness than its towns. He decided that he had seen what he’d come to see. There was no need to remain here.

As he turned, Ganondorf caught a breeze that carried a sweet fragrance unlike anything he’d ever encountered. Intrigued, he followed the scent along the inner wall of the castle until he found himself at the gate of a secluded courtyard garden. 

Tall bushes with glossy leaves separated the garden from the bare stone of the castle walls. Each of the bushes bore a profusion of white flowers as large as his palm. The scent was stronger here – richer than jasmine and as fresh as the sky after the rain.

Before he was aware of what he intended to do, Ganondorf found himself slipping his knife from the sheath at his belt to cut the thick woody stem of one of the flowers, whose petals spread elegantly from the golden shimmer of the nectar at its center. He had never seen anything so beautiful before, and he wanted to hold it. He sliced through its stem and watched as tiny beads of sap welled from the incision. As he withdrew his hand, clutching the flower alongside his knife, Ganondorf heard the soft murmur of a woman’s voice, quiet but resonant.

“He’s a good man, I think,” the voice said as it grew louder. “My honored mother wouldn’t have chosen him if he weren’t, Hylia rest her soul. He’s kind, and he has a strong will. And that’s the problem; that’s precisely the problem. He will make a good king. But then what need will there be for a queen?”

Ganondorf watched as a young woman stepped into the garden. The deep chestnut of her hair was accented by her dress, which was dyed with an indigo as deep as the sky at twilight. A white-haired woman of the same age trailed along behind her, as silent as a shadow. 

“Tensions are mounting at our borders,” the woman continued, “and Hyrule does not need a king. Hyrule needs peace. I will do what I can, yet I worry about the signs in the stars…”

Ganondorf knew he should flee, but the princess was so beautiful in her garden that he couldn’t help but stare. It was like a scene from a fairy tale. He was transfixed.

A moment later the spell was broken, but it was a moment too long. Ganondorf pulled his foot back to retreat, but the princess’s Sheikah attendant was on him like a cat at the slightest hint of movement.

“What have we here?” she murmured, her voice as soft as velvet. “Such a pretty girl, with such a sharp blade.” The Sheikah bent his hand so that the bones of his fingers twisted. Ganondorf dropped his knife but managed to hold on to the flower.

“A girl after my own heart,” the princess remarked with laughter in her voice. “Bring her closer, Impa, if you will.”

The Sheikah released Ganondorf, but not before giving his hand another painful squeeze. The warning in her touch was clear. Ganondorf understood that he was trapped, utterly and completely. He waited for panic to rise in his throat, but it never materialized. He realized that he might be forced to remain here, with soft grass under his feet and the delicate scent of white flowers lingering in the air. Perhaps such a fate would not be so terrible.

“On a tour of the castle, were you?” the princess prompted.

“Who sent you?” the Sheikah hissed with narrowed eyes. “Tell us and you might survive.”

The princess raised her hand, and the Sheikah fell back.

“How do you find my castle?” the princess asked as she gestured to the flower in Ganondorf’s hand. “Do the gardenias please you?”

Ganondorf knew that neither force nor speed could extricate him from this situation. Words were the only thing that had any chance of saving him, but his tongue was like lead in his mouth. He could only gaze at the princess, who seemed to glow in the pale sunlight. His fingers tightened on the flower.

The princess saw this and smiled. “It seems a shame for us to keep all of these gardenias to ourselves,” she remarked, switching to fluent Gerudo. “We can stand to part with one. I hope you will consider it a gift, but take care not to touch it. Its petals will blacken at the slightest contact with your skin. The flowers cannot survive after they’re removed from the plant.”

She began to reach out, perhaps intending to draw Ganondorf’s hood away from his face, but she allowed her hand to drop to her side. “We will release you,” she told him, “but you must not be caught on your way outside the castle. Nothing will protect you should one of the soldiers find you within these walls.”

The princess smiled again, but her eyes were like ice. “There is nothing here to be stolen that cannot be freely given,” she said, “but remember always, child – Hyrule does not take kindly to thieves.”

Ganondorf did not need to be told twice. He turned and ran, bending to snatch his fallen knife from the grass as he fled from the princess and her garden.

He was careful not to touch the gardenia as he made his scurrying and surreptitious way back outside the castle, but the flower’s petals were already tinged an unhealthy shade of gray by the time he was able to stop to catch his breath. They had begun to curl at the edges, and their sweet smell had grown sour.

Now there was no reason not to touch the flower. Ganondorf stroked its smooth white petals and touched his nose to the golden center of its blossom as he crouched against a dirty wall in a back alley of the market. Even as its petals spoiled before his eyes, the gardenia was divine in its beauty.

Ganondorf used his knife to cut away the rest of the wooden stem and tucked the flower into an inner pocket of his tunic. He wanted the fading flower and the memory of the castle garden to be close to his skin. The furious beating of this heart had slowed now that the danger of being caught had passed, but Ganondorf was still haunted by the cold eyes of the princess.

He would have to be more careful next time.

[livvynka]

The Vacation (Kamilah & Amy) - Part 4

Warning: SMUT and angry s*x.

I’m not native english speaker, feel free to correct me (i would be actually glad).

NOTE: This part is shorter than usual, but I still have break. Hope you like it. I would be glad for any tips or requests.

About 800+- words.

Tag list: @fal-carrington @samanthadalton @vonda-b-real @drmmyrs @straightlikewetspaghetti @blaine-hayes @lizielasyd @mrskamilahsayeed @millasayeed @ntoraplayschoices @ilove-kamilah-sayeed @kamilah-is-queen @rhonda-sayeed @queenkamilah @domakir @kwaj115 @fundamentalromantic @somethindarker @crimsonvrose @glowriter @leenasayeed

Please consider following these people. They are talented and their blogs are great! If you want to be tagged or do not want to be tagged anymore, please, contact me.

And thank you for your support. I appreciate all likes, reblogs, comments. You are all amazing!

DISCLAIMER: I do not own these characters, they are property of PixelBerry studios!

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3

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Amy freezes for a moment, she is so tired how Kamilah controlling their lives. She turns in her arms to face her and without hesitation kiss her. It is the kiss which leaves you breathless. Hunger and rage still dancing in Amy's eyes. It leaves Kamilah surprised, but she did not pull away. Amy then takes Kamilah's hand and flip their positions. Amy hurl forward and restrain Kamilah against the wall. Kamilah let out a yelp.

Amy: Not everything sorts out immediately, Kamilah.

Kamilah: Amy, I don't expect you forgive me instantly, I just want to let you know, I'm truly sorry.

Amy: Let's go back to our hotel room and talk privately.

Amy takes Kamilah by hand and with vampire speed run to their hotel room. She is crashing her hand, she really is angry, Kamilah thought. Kamilah didn't know Amy is so fast. Even Kamilah have a problem to follow her.

When they arrive at their room, Amy slams the door behind them so hard, that the door almost break from the joints. It leaves huge cracks in the wall.

Kamilah: Amy, please, listen to me. You radiate too much power again. Let's cool down for a bit and talk about this.

Amy: Stop. Telling. Me. What. I. Should. Do.

With that the pushes Kamilah to shoes cabinet near to them. Amy's eyes change to red color and her fangs fling out. She closes the space between them in flash and harshly kiss Kamilah. Kamilah automatically grab Amy by hips. But she pulls away again.

Amy: DON'T TOUCH ME! You need to deserve that first.

Kamilah: Amy .. I - I

She pulls Kamilah down from the cabinet by her silk hair and smack her ass hard.

Amy: You are always so demanding and controlling. You manipulate with me and think I'm some stupid chick! I'm your wife. But this ends now, Kamilah!

She kisses Kamilah again with her fangs out. She punctures her bottom lip and starts walking with her hand on her neck. She stops in the bedroom and with vampire speed and strength rip off Kamilah's cloths. Amy practically throws Kamilah into bed.

Amy: You are not allowed to speak or touch me. Lay on your back. Hands behind your back.

Kamilah nod and did what Amy says. Amy straddles her. Holding Kamilah steady. She grabs her neck and pulls her close, so she can kiss her again. Amy continues to Kamilah's jaw, neck and collarbone, suck her skin and then bite, Kamilah scream Amy's name and arch with every movement Amy do. Amy's hand still choking Kamilah's neck lay her with her weight, Kamilah onto her back again. She starts teasing Kamilah hard clitoris through the fabric of her panties with light touch, hardly touching her. Kamilah pants heavily. Her hearth beats so fast, she starts to think it escapes her chest. Amy unclip Kamilah's bra and with a quick move rip her panties.

She continues kissing and biting her, make a path at her stomach, lower abdomen. Amy split her thighs, bite her way to the center of Kamilah. Kamilah moans with anticipation. She wants to touch Amy so bad. Amy didn't wait too long and suck her clitoris hard. She knows Kamilah is close. She slows her movements and makes circles around the place Kamilah need her most. She put one of her hand on Kamilah's stomach, trying to hold her in place. She enters three fingers into Kamilah. Kamilah blink and hold her breath. With every moan, every pant, she quicken her movements and pump her fingers with brutal force. Kamilah starts to see stars and crying with pleasure.

Kamilah: Don't stop, please! Oh my god. I can't take this anymore. AMY! AMY!

Amy: Come for me, my love.

Kamilah let go. She has one of the strongest orgasm she ever had. Amy continues with light movements. Kamilah comes again. Amy smirks at the beautiful woman. How she makes Kamilah body tremble. Amy kiss Kamilah again, she does not care if Kamilah taste herself.

Kamilah: That was, wow. Let me make it up to you, let me touch you, please.

Amy: Later. We need to talk now. I need fresh air.

Amy stands up and extend hand to Kamilah, she accept it. Amy takes Kamilah to terrace. Amy leans on the railing. She takes a few deep breaths and look at the Kamilah.

Amy: Listen, Kamilah, I love you more than anything and I would do everything, so we can be together. But this is not going to work. I know we have, I hope, centuries, but I want to be with you now, really with you. I want to share with you every moment, every small victory, all the happy moments.

Kamilah: I understand and you are right. I love you, and I wasn't being honest with you, even with myself. When we will come back, from this vacation, I transmit my company as soon as possible.

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BE CONTINUED.

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3

[high-warlock-of-brooklyn]

And baby I'll rule, I'll rule, I'll rule, I'll rule, let me live that fantasy (Chapter 2/2)

Ao3 LINK, Chapter 1 LINK

Chapter summary: It's time for the Hunter's Moon Ball! After the fated encounter in the Brocelind forest, Fate brings Alec face to face with the gold eyed boy once again. This time, Alec decides to have a word with the elusive Prince of Magii.

Chapter 2 Square filled: Hunter’s Moon (for @shadowhunterbingo)

Alec’s first Hunter’s Moon was, from the start, unexciting. His usually busy parents were practically non-existent for their children due to the wartime efficiency in planning the Hunter’s Moon required from both of the royals. 

Isabelle was only ten years old, and more interested in learning secrets of the trade from their old Spymaster, Hodge Starkweather. The little time she didn’t spend learning how to blend into crowds or how to obtain answers from cryptic messages, she spent it in her own personal closet. The Princess’s closet is still a thing of dreams among the servants, and Isabelle allows few in it, even though she’s more than generous to them in matters of gifts.

Alec, being only thirteen at the time, as well as a young Prince at risk for assassination during the festivities, was kept far away from large crowds. And while he appreciated being left alone for once, it had also left him incredibly bored. So when Jace had asked him to slip away from the castle to see the comet up close, Alec had taken him up on the offer after only a little of his friend’s pestering.

The castle watchtower, being the highest point in all of Idris, was understandably the best place for watching the stars. Jace had nicked some of his father’s whiskey compartment, and while Alec had only a few sips, the two had talked for hours of courtly duties and what every courtier sounded like, and tried to make a caricature of it. Dawn had come sooner than they’d expected, and Alec, fearing a riot at hand after the guards found his room empty, had motioned to leave.

On his way down, there had been this boy, hidden away in an alcove, watching the stars, feet dangling down the balcony in a dangerous decision that rivalled some of Jace’s own. Alec had wanted to go ask his name, but Jace had whispered about hurried footsteps of guards, and they had to leave anyway.

All the commotion made the boy turn his head, and all Alec remembers, crystal clear from that night, are eyes of molten gold, framed in silver lines above the cheek.

Like liquid sunlight and moonshine trapped in human form.

And now, after twelve years of searching, that boy is standing in front of Alec, having saved an innocent animal with an impressive set of knife skills.

Alec tries to ask him something, his name, which of the kingdoms he’s from, anything. But his guards intervene, Underhill leaning in to inform him about some recent development and the Queen’s orders for him to come home as soon as possible.

He catches Jace’s eyes, jerking his chin towards the crowd as a question. Jace bows slightly, a gesture meant to convey that he will take care of this all. Assured, Alec mounts his horse once more, galloping as fast as he can towards the castle.

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“Your Majesty.” Alec courtesies as soon as he reaches the throne room, panting after running the whole way from the stables. “You wanted to see me.”

“Yes, Alec.” Maryse calls out to the courtiers and the guards. “Leave us alone. Isabelle, stay please.”

“Of course, Mother.” Isabelle puts away the paper at hand. Alec sends a quick glance towards his sister, silently asking if she knows what this is about, getting a soft nod in return.

“Isabelle tells me that the Prince of Magii has reached our kingdom.” Maryse leans back on her throne. Alec recognizes the gesture, the one he’s seen countless times during strategic meetings.

“I thought King Asmodeus wasn’t looking forward to joining us after the talk of the accords fell through eight years ago.” Alec turns to look at the Spymaster. “What changed?”

“The King has fallen out of commission. Too ill to rule. Left behind a vacancy.” Isabelle’s red lips stretch in a deadly smile. “A Prince-shaped one.”

“Perhaps the young Prince can be persuaded towards a treaty, then.” Maryse muses. “In any case, I want you both on guard.”

“Of course, Mother.” Alec nods.

“An unknown element being introduced like this….” Maryse looks between her children, “Alec, you would be running point on this. Isabelle, refer to your brother in case of any major decisions. And keep me apprised of what happens. Be on guard. If all these years of rule has taught me anything, it is that you can never be too cautious of who your allies and enemies are. Do you understand, Alec?”

Alec stands a bit taller, well aware that this will be a test for him, not just to his mother or his country, but to himself.

“I understand, Your Majesty.”

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“Stop fidgeting, you look fine.”

“I’m aware of that.”

“Then stop doing that.”

Isabelle slaps Alec hands away from where he’d been fiddling with his cuffs. After years of battlefield training, Alec feels naked without a bow in hand, or at least a sword, and his hands itch to fly to the only detachable parts in reach.

Isabelle has truly outdone herself with their outfits, Alec thinks as he smooths a hand down his jacket front. His sister looks radiant in her black ball gown, a slash of gold right down her chest up to her waist in an immaculate arc. Anyone looking at her dark ruby necklace and complicated updo might not think of her as a deadly warrior, but she prefers it this way. Even though Alec knows the truth of the sharp knives lined up in the hidden holster round her thigh, a twin to the one sitting snug around his ankle.

Alec, on the other hand, looks nothing less than a King. The navy of his tuxedo is a shade dark enough to be mistaken as black in dim light. The only splash of brightness is the gold bow tie Isabelle insisted he pair it with. He’s a shining beacon of royalty to anyone and everyone, just as he asked his sister to present him to be. If he’s going to rule, he might as well start looking the part.

The bow and arrow cufflinks however, are utterly unmatched to the rest of his outfit, at least to people not privy to their origin. King Robert had been an excellent ruler, a perfect swordsman, and a good husband, but it seemed that his perfection had trickled low when it came to being a parent. Robert had been dubious of Alec choosing a bow at such a young age, thinking it somehow tainted his skill with the sword. Alec had entered the annual championship hosted by the Five Kingdoms out of sheer pettiness, disguised himself as a commoner, and had won the prize with nothing but his bow and quiver.

Standing today before so many dignitaries holding his every movement, every word under scrutiny, Alec feels seven year old again.

“Alec,” Isabelle nudges him with her elbow, “your speech.”

Alec takes the flute of champagne Isabelle offers, clinking his spoon against it as customary. Everyone turns to face him, silence blanketing the hall like a shawl in a cold afternoon.

“My honoured friends and allies, welcome to the Hunter’s Moon ball.”

A roar goes up from the crowd. Alec smiles warmly at the Lupine dignitaries cheering for him, right alongside his own subjects.

“It is customary for the ruling monarch to deliver the first toast of the ball, but I have been informed this is a special occasion.” Alec faces the Magiis seated by a large window, the golden-eyed man noticeably missing. He tries not to let his eyes wander too much in the crowd in search.

“For the first time in more than half a century, all Five Kingdoms have been reunited under this very hall.” Alec raises his flute. “Let us start off the season with hopes of peace anew, and bonds forged in light as bright as the comet itself.”

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The party starts full-fledged after that, everyone mingling and drinking and having fun in a way that is entirely impossible anywhere outside these sacred halls. The Law of the Moon forbids any conflict inside the hall as long as the party lasts, and the patrons seem to take full advantage of it.

“I thought the host was supposed to be inside the venue.”

Alec turns to face the owner of the smooth voice, trying to contain his surprise when a pair of molten gold eyes stare back at him. “Just collecting my thoughts.”

“I’ll leave you to it then.” The man offers a smile, turning to leave.

“You can stay. If you want, that is.” Alec wants him to stay.

“Okay.” He comes to stand next to Alec, body twisting to lean against the railing, the witchlight in the balcony casting sharp shadows on the deep golden skin. “I’m Magnus.”

“Crowned Prince of Magii.” Alec notes, half to himself, before extending an arm in greeting. Magnus returns the gesture. “You weren’t at the toast before.”

Magnus heaves a sigh. “Some news arrived from Magii. I left my father ill at home. I was afraid it might’ve been something drastic.”

“How is he?”

“He’s stable, for the time being.” Magnus says.

“I’m sorry about your father.”

“While I appreciate your concern, my father is a- complicated man, to say the least. I know you must’ve heard the rumours. We haven’t seen eye to eye on anything since I was a child. To say I have mixed feelings about him would be an understatement.” Magnus barks a humourless laugh. “Now that he’s ill, I honestly don’t know what to think.”

“He’s your family. Family is always complicated.” Alec takes a swig of his champagne. “May I ask you something?”

“What’s in it for me?” Magnus raises an eyebrow, a hint of a challenge gleaming in his eyes.

“How about an exchange? An answer for an answer?” Alec offers.

“Deal.”

“The night of the last Moon, twelve years ago. Were you in the southern alcove of the palace?” Alec asks.

“I was. And yes, before you ask, I did see you and your friend that night.” Magnus answers, eyes boring into Alec’s own. “Now you owe me two answers.”

“Fire away, then.”

“Okay.” Magnus regards Alec closely, eyes running from head to toe. Alec feels a sudden urge to squirm under the intensity of that gaze. “I heard you don’t use a sword in the battle, that you favor bow and quiver more. I’d like to know why.”

Alec smiles to himself. “It started because my best friend said mastering a longbow will be harder than mastering a sword. I liked the challenge, I suppose. But then- you know how us royals never truly lead a battle in the front lines?”

“I’m aware.” Magnus’s jaw ticks.

“It’s always the foot soldiers dying in the front line while the monarchy hangs back to strategize and secure. I suppose I wanted to be useful, even if I’m kept away from the course of action. With a sword you can only stab and kill and maim, it’s all swashbuckling. But with a bow you can aim, and know who you kill, and be aware of exactly whose life you’re responsible for.”

Magnus points at Alec’s hands. “Is that why the famed Idrisan Prince is wearing a decade old pair of cufflinks?”

“No, these-” Alec looks down at the slightly marred pieces of gunmetal, “these I won at the Five Kingdom Championship when I was nine. I wanted to prove to my father that I could be just as much of a king with a bow as I would be with a sword. I disguised myself as a farmer boy so they wouldn’t throw me out of the competition or accuse me of being played favourites.”

Magnus regards Alec closely. “You continue to surprise me, Prince Alexander.”

“In good ways, I hope.” Alec finds himself smiling bashfully, the Magii Prince returning the gesture generously.

“So, is this the ball where you try to find a suitable match?” Magnus asks, eyes suddenly faraway. “Prospects are abound. Surely there has to be someone that catches the eye of the man who would one day be king.”

“Why, do you have any suggestions?” Alec asks, curious.

“Me?” Magnus lets out a self-deprecating chuckle. “I wouldn’t know the first thing about marriage for love. It’s all saving the bloodline and securing a legacy. Love has no business in a palace. Or so my father tells me.”

“I’ve always known that my sister’s eldest will inherit the throne.” Alec nods determinedly.

“Don’t want any children?”

“My ability to procreate is rather limited, given my…. inclinations.”

“That’s the fanciest way I’ve ever seen someone come out as gay.” Magnus tries to hide a smile. “For what it’s worth, I’m bisexual, and do have the option. But I’d rather not.”

“You don’t want heirs from your bloodline?” Alec asks, feeling curious.

“Well, let’s see.” Magnus faces Alec. “My father was betrothed to the daughter of the most influential person in the kingdom. But after the marriage, they found out that the new queen could not bear children. My father took the matters in his own hands.”

Magnus looks away from Alec, eyes focusing on something far away, and in a way, Alec supposes he is too at the moment. “There was no love lost between my parents. It was rather like a business transaction, you can say. She was a lowly farmer’s daughter who wanted better things for her poor family, and my father only wanted an heir. She died during childbirth.”

“I’m sorry.” Alec says, voice low.

“It’s quite alright.” Magnus seems to come back to the present once more. “As it happened, Queen Lilith didn’t want to share the throne, or anything else with another woman’s child. She wasn’t very maternal, so to speak. Even so, she somehow held my father together. I was six when she was assassinated. It seemed my father changed overnight almost.”

“So to answer your question, Prince Alec, no, I don’t want to continue this bloodline.” Magnus’s gold eyes seem to light from within. “Especially with the family curse still a possibility.”

“Beg pardon?” Alec asks, confused.

“Surely you have noticed my eyes are not the most usual in nature.” Magnus makes a two fingered gesture at his eyes. “When I was born, my father said I was blessed by Sammael himself. I call it the curse of the Magii.”

“You’re descended from Sammael?” Alec chuckles. “Sammael is a bedtime story for little kids.”

“What are you Idrisans ever so fond of saying?” Magnus pretends to think the question over. “Oh that’s right, all the stories are true .”

“You can’t be serious.”

“Like a heart attack.” Magnus answers. “Only he was not so much of a dragon as a evil warlord. Though changing his form does nothing to attribute his lust for wealth. King Jonathan lead the rebellion against him. The same Jonathan I’m sure you are descended from.”

“The two bloodlines reunited under the Hunter’s Moon after a thousand years.” Alec takes a deep breath, the crisp night air slowly turning warm as dawn approaches.

“I suppose fate can sense the impending kinghood on both of us.” Magnus comments. Alec opens his mouth to say something, only to be cut off. “Please don’t insult the capabilities of both our wonderful spymasters by trying to deny it, Your Highness.”

“I wasn’t going to.” Alec answers. “Actually, I was going to propose an alliance between our kingdoms.”

“An alliance?” Magnus sets his champagne flute on the balcony railing, turning to face Alec head on. “What makes you think I’d be interested?”

“The fact that as kings, neither one of us are inclined to continue the legacy of war that our ancestors started.” Alec says matter-of-factly. “You are ready end the royal bloodline for the sake of a new chapter, and I’d like Idris to be a part of that story.”

“Tempting.” Magnus’s eyes flicks downwards from Alec’s eyes, only for a moment, before coming back up. “We’d have to negotiate the terms, of course.”

“Goes without saying.” Alec adds.

“But, I will consider this as a not-so-distant possibility.” Magnus says.

Alec smiles, satisfied in the knowledge of a possibility of peace. Another possibility jumps up in his mind, and he straightens his shoulders. It’s now or never.

“Would you like to go out for a drink?”

Magnus glances exaggeratedly between the drinks at hand. “I thought that’s what we were doing already.”

“I meant more like a date.” Alec takes a deep breath, anxiety wracking his brain piece by piece already. “I’ll even show you the secret royal wine collection.”

“Giving up state secrets already?” Magnus’s gold eyes twinkle with mischief. “What will your council think?”

“That I’m very, very gay and I really want you to say yes?” Alec smiles nervously.

“In that case,” Magnus plucks the empty flute from Alec’s hand, setting next to his own, “I thought you’d never ask.”

Magnus reaches up on his toes to kiss him, and Alec meets him halfway, eyes closed, heart pounding. The kiss is gentle, the two still testing waters. Alec never wants it to stop.

Finally Magnus pulls away. “Well, you certainly know how to keep a man on his toes.”

Alec laughs, throwing his head back, a full on body shaking laughter, vibrations of which shakes Magnus too, the latter still holding onto Alec. Alec looks back at the party through the ceiling length glass doors, his sister twirling Lady Clarissa, both radiant in their joy. Jace looks happy as he talks animatedly with Jonathan Wayland, Lady Roberts deep in conversation with them. He finally catches the eye of a member of the waitstaff, beckoning him forward for a refill for them both.

“To new beginnings.” Alec raises his glass, clinking with the one in Magnus’s hand.

“May they usher in peace,” Magnus stares into Alec’s eyes, “and love.”

Inside, a roar of clapping goes up as the sun rises and Hunter’s comet passes fully. Outside, the future Kings smile, eyes radiant in the sunshine, a new dawn ushering.