#i just saw this prompt and was like 'im sorry how is that not ominous as hell??'

[the1975attheirverybest]

Winte(ring)

A/N: for @abiiors 12 days of Christmas prompts. Sorry I’ve abruptly abandoned them. IM SORRY ITS SO SHORT I CANT WRITE FLUFF OKAY.

Inspired by my first winter away from home during the 2014 snowmageddon in Boston. If you know you know. Let me know what you think!!

Prompt: Snowed In

Warnings: nah.

———

“Darling, please! Put that down!” Matty trailed after his girlfriend as she dashed around their rented cabin, gathering her belongings and stuffing them into her suitcase.

“I promised Denise-“

“I promise you that my mum does NOT want you to drive in the middle of a snowstorm just to be there for presents. She’ll understand.” Matty squeezed her shoulder urgently.

“If you wanna stay here all alone, then, suit yourself. But I’m leaving.” With that, she hauled one of the bags over her shoulder, turning doorknob open.

“Are you mad? You think I’m going to let you drive in the middle of-“ Matty stepped outside in his slippers, nearly slipping at the doorstep. “Jesus fuckin Christ!” He gasped when he saw the giant icicle looming down from the dam on the roof, ominously, threatening to break off at any moment and stab them.

“Come with me, then! Get dressed and let’s go before snowfall resumes. It’d be much safer if we could make it back before dark.”

Matty knew that was the logical thing to do, but that wasn’t the plan. THE plan. The one that he’d booked this cabin trip specifically to carry out. “But I’m- I’m sleepy. And- uhhh….ive still got to shower. And I haven’t packed-“

“Instead of standing here arguing with me about it, you could get started with all that!”

She could hear him mutter something under his breath about her being the most stubborn person he’d ever met. Shaking his head, he rushed back inside, his slippers completely drenched, his feet aching.

She shrugged, pressing the button on the car remote and listening to it beep twice. She was in the middle of loading up the car when she heard Matty come back out; with a feeble jacket on, a layer not strong enough to protect his precious body from the elements. He had certain not changed or packed, but at least he had his boots on. She glanced at him quickly before turning back to return to her task. Behind her, Matty was mumbling.

“I knew you were gonna be the death of me the moment that I met you. I just never expected us to die in a snow storm, for fucks sakes.”

Ordinarily, this is what would instigate a fight. He would share his inside thoughts out loud, inevitably saying something to set her off, she’d bite back with something quipping and sarcastic, and they’d kick off their competition for who would have the last word. But, considering that they were in a hurry to get on the road, she let his complaints slide.

“It’s my fault. Should’ve known you’d make this an impossible task. But no, I had to plan this fuckin romantic shitshow.”

Her brows furrowed as she moved their bags around inside the car, trying to fit them together like Tetris pieces. Behind her, she heard Matty zip and unzip his backpack repeatedly. Was he planning on loading up his stuff one individual item at a time?

She pushed the back of the car closed, sighing loudly in an attempt to exhale the annoyance out of her body. But, then, she turned around.

“Oh- my- fuck-“ she was stunned.

Before her eyes, Matty knelt down on one knee. Among a huge bed of rose petals that were presently sinking into the snow, slowly being covered up with white, disappearing. He popped the little box in his hand. A gorgeous diamond ring sparkling from within.

“Will you marry me?” Matty asked as soon as their eyes locked. “My darling—“ he swallowed. His heart beating against his coat. “will you do me the honor of being my wife you stubborn, relentless, ridiculous human being?” Marty was shocked at how nervous he’d felt. Despite the fact that they’d been together forever, talked about spending the rest of their lives as a couple, discussed marriage, starting a family, felt comfortable in their decision that they never wanted to be with anyone else, ever again. Matty still felt vulnerable and scared. To offset the unnerving feeling, he did what he does best: rant. “I had this whole thing planned. It was meant to happen inside! By the fireplace. Tonight. Dinner. Just you and me. There was going to be wine- umm…I can get the wine actually!” He went to stand up “probably shouldn’t get up before you answer. I just….theres nobody else I’d rather be snowed in - or out- with. I suppose you could say- the storm….it’s an awfully clear metaphor for- you know….the unexpected ups and downs of life that come your way in a marriage- or something obvious and dramatic like that….i just mean I love you and only you. I never want to love anyone else for the rest of my days. And I can’t think of a better way to honor that, than, like, marrying you, so I think we should be husband and wife. Forever and-“

She knelt down, kissing him with tears in her eyes. The sudden, added weight, threw him off balance, his knee sinking into the soft snow.

“Yes.” She whispered giggling into his mouth. “Yes I’ll marry you, you pretentious dickhead. Give me the ring…”

[heyheyitsstillgay]

Respect the Dead

Phandom Phic Phight Entry #2 based on a prompt from @whosvladagain

#TeamGhost team leader @ibelieveinahappilyeverafter

Previous Entry ; Also available on FFN ; Next Entry

Words: 3,635; Status: Complete

TW: Panic, Vomit mention, themes of death.

Okay, he looks significantly less friendly than Wulf. Though, perhaps a tad nicer than Cujo's angry form. Maybe Danny can calm him down, slowly lead him somewhere safer. Coax him away from Casper High, without getting into a fight that promises to be filled with sharp teeth and claw marks. Clockwork forbid the school bell goes off when a ghost wolf who clearly has a lot of pent up anger is stalking the halls not far from the gym.

"Easy, boy." Phantom mutters, hand stretched in front of him in what he hopes is a non-threatening manner. When he first tried to aim the thermos at him the ghost-wolf lashed out. Danny's unsure if the animal knows what the thermos can do, or is aware it's a threat, or perhaps is confusing the metallic contraption for a gun. Either way the ghost boy is too close to the animal right now to try anything like that again without getting his glove bitten off. Sure, his Hazmat got ruined all the time, he's slightly more concerned about the hand residing in the glove though. It would be nice to return to class in one piece rather than partially digested by a wolf or exposed to some kind of spectral rabies. Maybe? Do ghosts have rabies? Okay, we'll be wondering if bacteria has the possibility for an ecto afterlife when we're in a slightly less half-life threatening situation, perhaps.

Danny keeps his knees bent and his stance wide to improve his balance and increase his reaction time whilst still making himself smaller in hopes of appearing less threatening. He moves around the spirit in a circle, not wanting to risk getting any closer. Maybe if he can find a blind spot he can shoot the thermos from there. He's hesitant to put distance between them. Surely the last thing to do when faced with a growling wild animal, is give chase. Would the animal freak if he floated or phased? Was hiding in the air vents a really idiotic plan?

Given the direction he was walking he was about to hit a wall, or rather go through it and into the boys locker room. If he left the wolf's line of sight he had no doubt it would bolt after him. After all, Phantom's the only person the wolf has seen here, if he's going to try to hunt anyone down then it's him. Class is still in session so there's no humans nearby enough for the wolf to go after.

There is a door to the boys locker room which would make entry less hazardous than phasing, he thinks. Going through that entrance however would require moving closer to the beast, which isn't going to happen.

Side hitting the wall, he phases through. From within the plasterboard he kicks upwards into the ceiling as he hears the crash of the animal splintering the wooden door open. Great. More property damage. He floats into the air ducts and regains his solidity. For some reason the crashing sound hasn't stopped. The wolf is yelping, growling, whimpering, the clattering going on sounds almost metallic as it echoes through the vents. Danny tentatively places his fingers onto the walls around him. Tail rippling as he meanders forward, slowly, towards the light leaking in from below, the grates of the vent. If he can aim the thermos through it unnoticed, then that's this confrontation solved.

"Damn it! Pesky mutt!" Danny freezes as a deep voice reverberates from below. "Where did he go?!" It growls as a sickening splat cuts through all other sounds of chaos. Danny's habit of breathing stops as he remains as still as he can. That sound… that wasn't good.

The smell of copper and formaldehyde bites at his nose hairs and he almost chokes. He can taste it at the back of his throat against the rising acid. Ectoplasm.

That wasn't all, Skulker is down there. Quiet settling over them that yelled louder in his ears than anything previously from that room.

The wolf was gone. Must have been. Scent alone told him that much. Smoky as though it's very ectoplasm had been grilled. He knew the smell of destabilisation. Skulker swore. Why could Danny smell pine needles now? And fresh grass? Why did that make the urge to vomit even harder to suppress?

He doesn't want to see, doesn't want to know. Unbidden, his body floats forward without him telling it to. He reaches the grate, can finally see the state of the locker room below him. Pupils shrinking to the size of pinpricks, his throat closes at the sight.

Skulker isn't looking at him, fortunately, though it's clear the hunter can sense his prey is still nearby. The wolf, the bait, Danny realises, is barely recognisable. It's clear where it happened, a glowing blue net loose against the wall next to the door. With his enhanced hearing, Phantom can hear the net humming faintly. Was it, supposed to do this? The halfa wonders to himself.

Chunks of green lie below the net, barely touching it. Ectoplasm was usually viscous, think cornstarch in water, able to change between thin liquid and liquid thick enough to stand on its own. The chunks down there looked more like raw lime jello. With lines of black from where it had clearly made contact with the net. Dark smoke continued to rise from it in wisps. None of the discernibly wolf features remained. A light in the pile, a natural forest green compared to the now dark rotting green of the rest, it glowed like a flickering light. Something was oozing from it, but it wasn't ectoplasm, it was something deeper, more important, vital. It evaporated into mist immediately after contact with the air. The wolf's core had ruptured, cracked, shattering, it was bleeding out right in front of them and neither of the ghosts were trying to do anything about it. There wasn't anything they could do. An involuntary shiver wracks Danny's body as another wave of tree bark and pine passes over him.

They shouldn't be so close, this is so incredibly personal. No one should be looking at this, no one should be smelling this. But the animal died with them. It shouldn't be alone for this. It's too much, a new level of suffering and death that no spirit should ever have to go through. It's essence and soul is clinging to the scents in the air around them. Phantom and Skulker are the only people who can accept it, so they must.

It takes another fourteen minutes for the glow to leave the core and the smell around them to disperse. After which time, Skulker lowers his head. Placing a hand against his chest plate, the hunter mumbles an apology in ghost speak before he turns tail and leaves the room through the wall. This was hardly a situation to continue the hunt, so he doesn't.

Danny didn't like toast already, why the hell would Skulker have a ghost toaster? It was barbaric. Intentional core damage was very taboo, by everyone's standards, not just Walker's. The ghost boy moves through the vent and descends until he drops onto the floor by his toes. Neither of them have moved the net or disturbed the remains. Regular ectoplasm would evaporate naturally over time, he hopes that's able to happen now. He feels a slight territorial growl at the thought of any humans interfering with the animal husk. Glaring at the splintered door, he drags a bench in front of it. Stepping back with his head at a tilt, he uses his ghostly strength to stack another bench on top of it, in hopes that the humans would get the message. Stay Out. Sighing to himself, he mumbles a "good luck" in ghost speak before turning and leaving via the wall.

"Oh good grief." Ms Tetslaff grumbles as she passes the boys locker room on her way to the gym. She doesn't care who did it but if she does find out who then they're in for one hell of a kickboxing match. She slams her fist into her other palm and cracks her knuckles. How could someone cause chaos like this on tonight of all nights!? They needed to have the gym looking it's best! If she discovers even a hint of disturbance in that room too, she just might lose it.

The gym is fine, thankfully. Principal Ishiyama is in there with Mr Falluca, discussing the layout for the room. Tonight was supposed to be prom night, they had around 5 hours to decorate before students were meant to be arriving. Laraine calms herself and marches over to the folded tables to set them up along the wall.

"An Inspector Calls! Laraine!" Edward Lancer poked his head through the doors to the gym, exasperated. "Could you lend us a hand please? It seems that door has been barricaded from the inside, as well as broken into pieces!" Mrs Tetslaff nods and sets down the table she was carrying.

Ghosts then? She huffs. At least that means the students will live to see another day, unless the culprit is still inside. In which case they won't be having anything to do with tonight's celebrations if she gets a say in it. She punches her arm through the wide crack in the wood and grasps tightly onto the edge of whatever's blocking it beneath. Bracing her shoulders against the door, she flicks her wrist and shoves against it. They all hear the clatter of the barrier as she steps back and slams against the door again. This time it gives, they force through into the room.

Mrs Tetslaff's eyes dart around the mess. Yep, definitely ghosts. Wheeling his cleaning cart next to her, the long suffering janitor heaves a huge sigh and grumbles to himself. She shoots him a sympathising look before returning to the gym with Edward.

In the past, proms at Casper had always had themes; Medieval times, Fantasy, 70's night. Some genius on the PTA decided this year's should have a supernatural theme. Oh the hilarity. Some adults were in one corner blowing up black balloons and preparing to decorate the walls with the Halloween supplies, while the librarian and Mr Falluca seemed to have had the idea of putting an orange feather boa on the skeleton from the biology department. As if that could only ever end well. Mrs Tetslaff finished setting the tables up, lined with black plastic table cloths, ready for punch, nibbles and candy.

"Oh for- The Legend of Sleepy Hollow!" Laraine marches over to the exasperated English teacher.

"Whatever is it now, Edward?" The man was reaching the end of his tether and responds only by shoving the Halloween bunting into her hands.

"Ah." Or rather, the remains of the Halloween bunting. Disintegration appears to have occurred while it was in the box. Although, upon closer inspection, the plastic maintains an unnatural cold and there are faint scorch marks at the edge of the ribbons. Ghosts, again. So they were going to have a prom in a room with a skeleton and a lot of black balloons, seems more like a particularly gothic funeral than a celebration for teenagers.

"What are we supposed to do now?" Mr Lancer sighed, picking through the box and watching it all turn to dust at his fingertips.

"Quit mopin'," she began, "I'm sure we'll think of something. I'll head to the shops and see if there's anything I can find."

"But it's the middle of May?!" He exclaimed, she simply levelled him a glare and stepped towards the gym doors with heavy feet.

On her way out when she crossed paths with the janitor, something in particular catches her eye. She does a double take, taps the elderly man on the shoulder and points towards the object in question.

"Can I borrow this?" She asks, "I might just have had a really good idea." She remembers the art teacher is stood just a room away, he is going to love this.

The trio had left for prom a tad early, expecting to be caught up in ghost attacks and ending up fashionably late. None of them want to inconvenience any dates so they've decided to go together as friends, just in case. If somehow no ghosts attack and Tucker ends up meeting someone he likes while they're there, then good for him. Danny and Sam will just have to despair at his absence. As if they don't have the pleasure of seeing him everyday.

For once in their lives, however, Amity was actually being pretty quiet tonight. The trio are left to their own excitement for the upcoming party. Tucker is smiling gleefully, pride rolling from his shoulders over his hand-made costume.

"I say we have a contest tonight, see how many girls Danny Phantom can get, versus how many girls the far superior, younger, fresher, finer, Tucker Phantom can get?" He brushes his fingers through his white anime wig and glances over to his friend.

While said friend is undeniably Danny Phantom, at this time he's just Danny Fenton, black hair, red trainers and blue jeans. The only difference being his shirt, while still white, this shirt has black text that reads 'Nobody knows I'm dead.'

"Or you can spend tonight enjoying yourself in ways that don't involve pressuring someone into showing you affection." Sam rolls her eyes playfully at her friend.

"You're just jealous that you couldn't put together a cool ghost cosplay in time!"

"Um- you think I'm a cool ghost?" Danny cracked a smile.

"Hell yeah man, you're friends with me aren't you? That alone makes you the coolest, never mind the awesome super powers and the teen idolisation." The halfa just shakes his head and feels his cheeks heat in response.

"For the record," Sam spoke up "I don't feel the need to dress up as a ghost, not to infringe on or appropriate the culture of spirits or anything, but I'm dead inside all the time anyway. I can be a creature of the night any old day of the week." she stated with pride. It's not like she isn't making an effort, this year she has a black gothic dress with green and gold detailing, no one questions how she is able to speak so clearly with those fangs in her mouth again.

"Speaking of effort," Tucker redirects his attention, "Hey Danny, what happened to cutting some holes in a bed sheet and layering them over that outfit? You know no one's going to get that t-shirt, right?"

"Firstly, you've met my dad. In what universe is it safe to walk within 9 yards of him with a bed sheet over your head, regardless of species. Secondly, you guys get the t-shirt and I'm not wearing it for any one else, I'm wearing it for me because it is hecking hilarious. I paid good money for this online okay? You can't take this away from me, I won't let you." He pouted exaggeratedly at Tucker while the teen giggled at the imagery of Jack Fenton single handedly destroying a whole bed section of a store.

Turning into Casper High, Sam's heels click against the concrete as they walk towards the back entrance to the gym. An aged looking banner adorns the entryway, the double doors are closed. Nearby stood the ticket stand, the line for which is considerably short, though it makes sense considering how early in the night it is.

The trio slow their pace as they near the queue. A slight chill is in the air, Sam folds her arms into her torso, Tucker's jaw clenches, something like liquid nitrogen tries to crawl up Danny's throat. It's not too unusual, it's early evening but more notably - they live in a ghost town. Usually there's plenty of cold spots dotted around the place, even more so when the halfas are around, which is why he's not particularly off put. That is, until the couple at the front of the queue head inside, the moment the door cracks open.

A sense of foreboding increases tenfold. The first thing that hits him is the smell. It's odd but his head still snaps up and his breathing slows instinctively. He's not sure why it has his attention. It reminds of cheap watered down bleach, or the stuff he uses to clean his parents lab when there's been a particularly bad explosion that demands his attention. It looks fairly dark inside, but there's an unpromising quality to it, a light glow that resonates within him. Eyebrows creasing, Danny remains silent as the three teens take a few steps forwards in line.

Eye contact is maintained with the door the whole wait. If Sam and Tucker notice his examining gaze then they don't comment on it. Next time the door opens it has his full attention. The room, it almost has an aura of its own. His core doesn't poke towards it in curiosity like it would a ghost and obviously his ghost sense hasn't gone off, so what's going on? Maybe there's some kind of giant ghostly relic that's somehow found its way into his school gym. Okay, that sounds stupid. They're almost in anyway, he'll see what's happening for himself then.

When they reach the table the ghost boy doesn't spare a glance for whoever's manning the stall. He simply slams his money down and marches over to the door, arms outstretched. With a tug of the handle he drags the door wide open.

The lights are off, but it's not pitch black. The walls are covered with something that he's certain everyone else here is under the delusion of being glow in the dark paint. It forms shapes that dance across the walls, little characters whose faces are mock attempts of scary, but it's not the smiles that are sinister. His friends are at his side as the realisation settles further. That is not glow in the dark paint.

Yes, it smelt like his parents basement. Ectoplasm mixed with disinfectant. He recognises the smell now there isn't a barrier in the way. His pupils faded from his eyes as realisation dawned, exactly where this ectoplasm was from, who this ectoplasm was from. Green is all he can see, it's swarming his senses, filling his oesophagus, thrashing against his sides.

No, that wasn't the ectoplasm. People had their hands on him, grabbing him, holding him, trying to drag him one way or another. It feels like he's drowning but his mouth is dry, his chest is constricting. Faintly, a part of him is surprised that his soul hasn't left his body yet. His core is flaring, trying to reach out.

He wants to hunt down whoever is responsible, wants to hurt them. Wants to rip the building down by shaping the ectoplasm in his fingers into claws, wants to chase everyone away and carefully peel the remains from the walls and find somewhere safer to put them. Idiot. Leaving someone's final remains in a public school. What were Skulker and himself expecting from humans?

Woah, back up. Stop. He could calm down from this. Blinking, his eyes burn with un-shed tears. He grips the grass between his fingers until his knuckles turned white. He releases a shaky breath and takes another one. Regaining his bearings, it registers that he's sat in the grass a little away from the building but still on school grounds. His head feels too heavy for his neck to hold, so he drops it. Facing down towards his knees, he clasps his eyes shut and focuses on evening his breathing to that of a regular human being. He shoves down the panic that rises as his vision is clouded by eyelids that carry a faint green tinge. His throat feels red raw now that the numbness is leaving his body, like someone had forced him to swallow acid. He hadn't vomited had he? He cracks his eyes open to check his surroundings. Tucker is sat next to him, hovering a hand over Danny's shoulder but hesitant to actually touch him. The techno-geek looks startled, the thumb of his left hand moving swiftly across his PDA as his eyes scan the text. Sam isn't nearby. She's a distance away, closer to the gym than she is to him, waving her hands frantically in the face of one of the chaperones.

Danny rubs the heels of his hands against his eyes and fully raises his head. The movement draws a flinch out of his best friend whose head snaps up to check over him with wide eyes.

"You okay, man?" The boy asks, voice soft and steady, "Blood Blossoms gone?" "Blood Blossoms?" the halfa croaks, hand clutching at his throat in a vain attempt to fix the cracks. "Yeah, it looked pretty bad. I couldn't see the red lightning like last time though. I was trying to check if there was some other subspecies with slightly different properties, we couldn't see the circle anywhere either. You seemed kind of… mad when we tried to get you away but you started to calm down after a minute or so, so like…" He trails off and smiles reassuringly, Danny pretends not to notice the dark circle beginning to blossom on his friend's jaw or the feeling of drying red blood cracking beneath his own fingernails. The trembling across his form is dying down as he shakes his head slowly. "That wasn't-" His voice creaks and he tries again "wasn't Blood Blossoms. Th-they, um…" biting his cheek to centre himself, he swears, it comes out as a shaky whisper.

"What kind of awful, terrifying creature, lines their walls with the blood and broken soul of the dead and gone?"

Based on WhosVladAgain’s Prompt: They're doing prom decorations and ran out of glow in the dark paint; luckily ectoplasm does too…

[angstyaches]

ooh let’s have some fluff to welcome you back!!

i have a very very specific scenario in my mind (that Im not even sure fits into the timeline?) but you can tweak it however you want obviously

so it’s elliot, felix, charlie and shayne chilling at the Aldridge’s house, ya know, being a family, banter and teasing and stuff, BUT here’s the thing, this is mid elliot transformation so he’s feeling pretty nauseous here, but the thing is, he’s been sick so often recently that both him and felix are kinda used to it, so they just,, sort of acknowledge that elliots gonna throw up soon but never make a big deal out of it? So it’s more like,,, absent comfort from felix? Kinda like that distracted caretaker prompt list. Like they’re just talking and suddenly elliot just gets up and it’s like “yup it’s gonna happen brb” except when he comes back the vibes changed slightly because hes now Exhausted and felix is sympathetic?

I know you said detailed but I think this is too much afsdgha🍄

I'm not 100% happy with how this came out, I'm sorry if it sucks! It's another weird weekend for my brain.

Word Count: 2343

CW: vampire transformation, nausea, stomach ache, belching, insults/banter.

___

Somewhere nearby, a film was playing. A fire was gently crackling in the grate. The lights were dimmed and the curtains were pulled shut against the greying evening and the rain that pattered lightly against the windows of the townhouse.

Elliott could hear all of these things in far too much detail. He was beginning to wonder if his heightening senses were contributing to the nauseous spells that continued to plague him.

He could only hope that everything wouldn’t always be so overwhelming.

His eyes were shut, which was probably making his ears even sharper. He was slumped low on the larger sofa, head tilted back against the cushions. Felix’s shoulder was pressed lightly against him, and they each had a hand resting on the other’s thigh.

Before he’d closed his eyes, Elliott had been aware of the way Charlie and Shayne were basically tangled up in each other on the other sofa, and he’d wondered if Felix would have preferred something like that, but… there was the occasional ominous gurgle in Elliott’s stomach that suggested he was better off in a position conducive to a speedy getaway.

“A fun fact about this film,” Felix announced, his voice cutting through every other sound that was assaulting Elliott’s head, “is that I first saw it when I was… I suppose I was twelve? And…”

Elliott’s eyes may have been closed, but he could picture the exact face Felix would have been making at that moment; eyebrows raised, one edge of his mouth slightly raised. It made me realise…

“It made me realise I was bi.” The statement came out sounding like a brag, like Felix had deciphered the meaning of life and was gracing everyone in his presence with his newfound wisdom. “My bisexual awakening was to this movie.”

“Okay, what?” Shayne murmured, sounding as though he was half-asleep. “I’m – I’m sorry, but which guy made you realise that?”

Felix gave a gentle laugh. “So, it’s not obvious?”

It may not have been obvious to everyone, but Elliott knew the answer. He wasn’t about to chime in, though. Even if he’d been feeling well, he’d never interrupt Felix while he was talking about Interview with the Vampire. That was one sure-fire method of losing one’s cuddling privileges.

A sudden wave of heat in his stomach caused Elliott to swallow harshly. False alarm. He had no bucket close to hand; he’d have preferred to stick his hand in the fireplace than give himself the option of throwing up in front of Charlie and Shayne. If needs be, he knew he could run and make it to the downstairs bathroom before disaster struck Nancy’s precious upholstery.

The contents of his belly, currently, were a small amount of water to make sure he didn’t dehydrate, and a quarter-cup of blood – LMD, to be specific. Ryan had assured him that human blood was much easier to stomach on top of nausea. Elliott wasn’t so convinced. The last thing he’d swallowed was one of Nancy’s tonics, one that she’d claimed would relax the muscles in his digestive system and ease the spasms; that was, of course, if his system would relax enough to absorb it. So far, he was thinking no.

“Was it Brad Pitt?” Charlie asked.

Felix chuckled. “Nope.”

Elliott braced himself for another sickly lurch in his gut, this time making sure to swallow a lot more steadily. He could feel himself losing the battle, but it wasn’t the end yet. Felix must have sensed the shift in his posture, because his fingers traced reassuring little circles into his leg where his hand rested.

“The other guy, then?” Shayne asked.

“Tom Cruise,” Charlie filled in.

Yep, Elliott thought. He didn’t need to be looking at the TV to refresh his memory of the fictitious blonde vampire.

“Yep!” Felix chirped. “I don’t even like Tom Cruise in any other film, so it was absolutely the character, and not the actor.”

Elliott lifted one hand to his mouth, feeling his stomach churn slowly inside of him before giving a sharp twist. Felix’s hand stopped rubbing his leg, in favour of giving it a gentle squeeze instead.

“Wait. So, the blonde guy?” Shayne murmured, to which Charlie responded, “Yes.”

“I suppose, in a way, if I hadn’t seen this film…” Felix went on, his hand moving back up to Elliott’s hair now.

Elliott exhaled slowly. His jaw started to tremble. I wouldn’t have been so prepared when –

“I wouldn’t have been so prepared,” Felix half-laughed, as though the thought had just occurred to him, when Elliott knew for a fact that it hadn’t, “when what happened to Louis basically happened to me. You know?”

“So, Louis is the blonde guy?” Shayne asked.

Elliott almost rolled his eyes, but knew Felix probably had him covered.

“No, no, Louis is Brad Pitt,” Charlie quickly said.

“The brown-haired guy?”

“Yes,” Felix chimed in. “He’s Louis, and Tom Cruise’s character is called Lestat.”

Shayne loudly clicked his tongue. “Why would they give them both names that both start with L? That’s just fucking confusing.”

“It’s based on a book,” Felix shot back in a soft voice. “The screenwriters didn’t choose the names.”

“Wait, so –” Charlie cleared his throat. There was the sound of straining leather, as though he was rearranging himself on the other couch. Elliott even thought he heard Shayne let out a groan, like he’d been elbowed or leaned on. “I don’t think I’ve ever heard that story, Felix.”

“It’s not that similar,” Shayne muttered.

“Hey!” Felix’s posture straightened as he protested. “There are similar aspects! Like –”

Elliott suddenly burped against his own hand, his stomach echoing the sound with a deep, sloshy grumble. Felix fell silent, and so did the rest of the room, aside from the TV. Elliott pried his eyes open to look across at Charlie and Shayne; Charlie had one arm on the armrest, chin propped up by the heel of his hand, with Shayne’s head on his chest.

They were both eyeing him warily, just as he was sure that Felix was doing from above.

“Sorry,” he murmured, folding his arms across his chest and settling his head against the back of the sofa again. “Continue.”

“I’ll tell you the story another time,” Felix told Charlie, his voice lower than before. “Watch the film. I think you two will enjoy it.”

Felix wriggled about gently, as though trying not to disturb Elliott’s position, and curled one arm over the back of the couch. His fingers brushed delicately against the back of Elliott’s head, eventually curling deeper into his hair and smoothing down its silky length. It was stupidly long these days, but Felix seemed to like it.

Every so often, Elliott could tell that Felix was holding his breath for a few seconds, and he felt a tingle in his chest as though his face was being looked at. He squeezed Felix’s knee, just a short, pulsing motion to reassure him.

After about fifteen minutes had passed without anybody speaking over the movie, Elliott’s eyelids twitched. There was a weird crackle of tension in the room. He pried one eye open the barest amount. Charlie and Shayne were still in his line of vision; Charlie seemed enthralled by the movie, but Shayne was looking right at Felix and mouthing… something.

Elliott’s heart dropped.

Is he okay?

Shayne was asking Felix if he was okay.

Elliott felt Felix give a gentle shrug; if he hadn’t had context, Elliott mightn’t have even read into the shift in his partner’s body. His insides burned with extra queasiness at the concept of being talked about from across the room.

With one eye open to the narrowest slit, Elliott saw Shayne lift a hand up to his own mouth, mimicking the act of throwing up.

“I can see you, fuckface,” Elliott muttered, opening both eyes the rest of the way.

“Oh.” Shayne pressed his lips together and tilted his head, meeting Elliott’s gaze. “Doin’ okay there, old man? Need someone to take you to your coffin?”

Elliott grunted. He was in no mood to whip up a witty response. ‘Fuckface’ alone had almost done him in. “Yeah, well, you’re… short.”

“Hey!” Felix exclaimed, his gentleness momentarily abandoned. “I’m shorter than him, Elli!”

“Yes, but you’re cute, and you don’t annoy the shit out of me.” Elliott managed a weak smile as he closed his eyes. “Not as often, at least.”

“Jeez, thanks, darling,” Felix murmured, scratching lightly at Elliott’s scalp. Elliott reckoned he’d have gotten a lot more verbal protesting from Felix, if Felix hadn’t been somewhat clued-in to how awful he was feeling. He’d pay for it later, maybe, but for now, he’d enjoy these subtle shows of affection.

“Oh…” Shayne clicked his fingers after nobody said anything for a few minutes. “I get it now.”

Felix’s fingers slowed to a stop as he became distracted again. “Get what, bud?”

“This Lestat guy is an asshole, right? And you had a crush on him, Fee, so that explains…” Shayne gestured towards Elliott. “You know.”

“Lestat,” Felix hissed, his voice strangely low, “is not an asshole. He is complex and misunderstood.”

Elliott didn’t have time to wonder why his partner was jumping to defend a fictional character, instead of his non-fictional life companion, because that was when a strained, sickly groan rang out in the room. Maybe it was just that Elliott’s senses were going haywire, but it seemed as though it was louder than the audio of the movie.

Elliott’s eyes flew open, darting once over the room as though there could be some other explanation for it; a wild animal loose in the house, a faulty fixture about to give out. When he was hit with a cramp that made his breath hitch, he couldn’t convince himself that it’d been anything other than his stomach losing the battle with his nausea.

If Felix realised things were escalating as they were, he was acting very nonchalant about it. His fingers were still carefully working through Elliott’s hair.

Elliott shifted so that he was leaning over his knees, eyes glazed as he stared at the floor.

“Oh,” Felix said softly. His hand hovered near Elliott’s head as it lifted from his lap. “Is it…?”

Elliott pressed the side of his fist against his mouth to stifle the deepest burp yet, feeling the air rush and churn through his insides. His belly felt so heavy, like it was filled with bricks. The mental image didn’t exactly make him feel better about what he was about to do.

“Yeah,” he forced out, voice thick. He felt Felix take his other hand. “It’s about that time.”

“I’ll come with you –” Felix was already getting to his feet.

“No, no. Watch your movie. I’ll probably be back in a few minutes.”

Felix gave a tiny whimper of protest, but sat back down.

___

Elliott was shaking after, and he cursed his stupid hands as he cupped them under the tap and lapped up a few mouthfuls of cold water. His insides felt the cold more intensely these days. He supposed his throat and stomach were constantly expecting blood, hot and fresh from the vein, not water straight from a pipe. He tried not to think about the liquid trickling into his disturbed stomach; it’d just stopped flipping itself like a pancake.

He eyed the stairs with weary desire as he wandered back into the darkening hallway. Felix wouldn’t be mad if he abandoned the movie and went on up to bed, and Jesus, did bed sound like absolute bliss over the chaos that was happening on the other side of the door to the front room.

And yet, with his brain fogged with exhaustion, he found himself heading back through that door.

All eyes had been watching the movie, but quickly shot to him.

“Again,” he mumbled, “don’t mind me.”

Charlie abruptly did as he was told. He and Shayne had swapped positions since Elliott had left; Charlie was lying on Shayne now. Shayne looked back towards the movie a second or two after Charlie did. The overall atmosphere in the room left no doubt in Elliott’s mind that he’d been talked about in his absence.

He could feel Felix watching his every step as he came back to their sofa. A sympathetic smile spread across the smaller boy’s face as he patted the cushions and opened his arms for Elliott to sink into.

As he leaned into the embrace, Elliott ventured a glance towards the TV screen. Louis and Claudia seemed to be meeting Armand for the first time, but the colours and lights still felt like tiny explosives repeatedly hitting Elliott in the corneas.

The little groan that escaped his throat was involuntary.

Felix pressed a kiss to his cheek, then leaned back to examine his face. The little crinkle of concern between his eyebrows never failed to make Elliott’s heart flutter. He carefully held his breath and allowed his head to tip downwards into Felix’s lap. He hummed in trepidation as the ache in his stomach throbbed, and curled his legs up loosely on the sofa cushions.

Felix touched Elliott’s head as he picked up on the anxious sound he’d made.

Elliott peered up at his partner from below. He let himself smile at the way Felix's fingers felt in his hair.

The crinkle between his eyebrows didn’t soften, but Felix’s eyes brightened at the smile. His fingers lightly tugged a lock of hair loose and began to twirl it.

Elliott shut his eyes again.

Somewhere nearby, a movie continued to play. Felix made little comments here and there, educating Shayne and Charlie on the significance of his favourite parts. Shayne told him to shut up at one point, but Felix didn’t. Somewhere nearby, the rain continued to fall and the fire burnt itself out, but Elliott didn’t focus on anything but the lap under his cheek and the fingers in his hair.

[outerbanx-4]

Dang Kooks

Prompt;; JJ and you had been friends since you could remember. While JJ being on the more “kook bad pogue good people” you tended to, while understanding where he came from, were a little more lenient. Until the day you ran into Rafe Cameron.

WARNINGS ;; Violence, angst, swearing, sexual content(no actual smut), fluuf(slight)

`this is my first time writing anything, so it will most likely be TRASH.

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

The air was muggy on the cut today, pretty much clinging to your body the whole time you were walking back from John Bs chateau. You couldn't believe how hot it has been recently and were praying that it would cool off, even just for a day. The walk from the chateau to your house was a fairly quick one, passing by familiar landmarks with the dirt road underfoot. You surprised yourself a little when you decided to choose a different route home. 

Deep in thought about what you and your fellow crew were going to do later in life you had wandered a bit further away from your house then you had noticed. You were known to space out, “lost in the twilight zone” as JJ called it, from time to time especially while walking home.  Coming up to an older playground where the swings were broken and the latter to the slide was missing rungs here and there you decided to sit and think.

Without realizing almost an hour has passed, looking at your phone and the screen lighting up to tell you that it indeed was 5pm and you told your parents you'd be home by 430p to help set up for dinner, you got up and made your way towards the road and back to your house. While on your way you took note of the broken tree branches, and just the general unkempt state of the lawns you passed by. While unkempt isn't really unusual for this part of the cut, the storm that had recently brandished its way through the island seemed to only make it much worse. Sighing you kicked some rocks as you walked. 

“Now should someone as pretty as you really be walking by herself?” you heard a voice call out from behind you making you jump in surprise and go to retort about how you are indeed and big girl and can handle yourself the gravelly voice continues his words “especially with how some of you pogues act. Never know who you're going to run into” 

Rolling your eyes you turn around and groan inwardly as you see the one and only Rafe Cameron. Everybody knew him. He was the worst of the worst. With the second worse being Topper of course. Sanding there in his stupid khaki cargo shorts and expensive pink polo he eyed you up and down in a way that made your skin crawl just by standing in his presence. “What are you doing here Rafe? I thought you hated this side of the island?” the contempt and hatred flowing through your syllables easily. 

“Oh I thought what a beautiful day it was and thought to myself.. Hmmmm where can i go find some cheap pussy?” he wiggled his eyebrows at you in a suggestive manner. Looking closer in his face because even though you know rafe cameron is a horrible person you even couldn't believe he would be this horrible and nasty. Low and behold you noticed that his pupils were dilated almost to the point of his entire eye being an ominous jet black shade. 

“You’re gross Rofe Cameron, why dont you go find some stupid touron or kook to take advantage of?” you asked as you turned back around and started to walk away. By now you had managed to make it closer to your house. Breathing a slow sigh of relief you hoped you would be able to make it home without any more issues. 

Suddenly you felt a hand grab your wrist and yank you backwards, and as your body unwillingly followed the momentum of the pull and your head whipped around to see who it was that happened to be touching you you noticed; you didn't know if you noticed because you were now scared or because of something else, something e;se you had started to notice had been happening recently. You where right in front of your best friends house, and while he was generally not at home and at the chateau you hoped and prayed and sent everything you could that he was home, because it was Rafe who had grabbed you and pulled you into his chest. One of his arms securing you, unwantedly, up against his body making you let out a groan.

“Rafe seriously let me go!” you all but yelled, purposely talking louder in hopes someone would hear you. Your best friend, the neighbors, your parents, heck even your best friends horrible father! Just anyone that would come and pry this ass off of you. Instead of letting go he pulled you in tighter. Chuckling he spoke quietly into your ear “Shhhhh now baby you know you're enjoying this.” and with that he grabbed at your ass and latched his mouth onto your neck. At this point you were helplessly flailing your arms in any hopes that one of the many hits your arms did would make him release you.  At one point he let his teeth sink into your neck which caused you to let out a squeal that you couldn't contain and made him grunt in approval.

Suddenly Rafes entire body pressure was off of you and not pushing up against you and within not eve none second the muffled thudding of someone's fist flying into Rafes cheek bone was evident. Stumbling but catching your step you saw the tall silhouette of your best friend, JJ, standing in front of Rafe, his toned arm rippling with each punch he threw, you could see that blood started to pour as each time his fist drew back his knuckles where coated.

“JJ! JJ! Stop please, hes down im safe!” You cried and you ran up to him and grabbed onto his arm as he raised it. Knowing how JJ got in these you knew you had to something more as he threw another punch ripping through your mesly grasp. “J come on please stop!”

Thinking for a minute at how mad he would be if ke knew what you were about to do, hed scold and yell andbe mad but there was no one else here to hold him , to stop him. Pope went home to study, John B and Sarah were out doing god knows what and Kie’s parents where making her work all day. You had nothing else to do.

Watching as Rafe stumbled backwards stood up and he'd managed to get a good swing in and landing it right on JJs perfect peach mouth, and you saw his lip rip open an start to bleed, and his normally sparkling cerulean blue eyes seemed to be a dark and stormy grey color. His fist reached back again and about to step towards Rafe. This is when you make your move, running and standing in front of him grabbing his wrist again and yelling more worried this time.

“JJ please stop!” His eyes snapped to yours for a second, still stormy as they bore down into your eyes, they flicked back to Rafe and he tried to push forward again. You dug your feet into the ground and brought your other hand up to graze his cheek and pulled his face down again. The eclectic sparks shooting through your body surprised you a little as the radiated from each and every touchpoint that you had on his face. 

“Ya JJ listen to your girlfriend just stop” Rafe mocked your  voice as you held JJs face now in both hands as his fist started to lower slightly. The storm started to clear out of his eyes a little as he finally looked at you and slowly nodded. Stepping back he moved slowly out of your embrace and glared at Rafe. USing his voice for the first time, “Stay off the cut you damn kook, no one wants you here.” 

Turning away you both followed him, that is until all of a sudden Rafe  spoke up and said the one thing he never should have, “Yeah ok Maybank but make sure you keep your girlfriend in line, stop letting her dress like a fucking skank.”

You knew it was over and JJ just turned and smashed Rafe a hard one to the jaw and Rafe fell to the ground blood gushing from his nose as his eyes rolled back. JJ just grabbed your hand and walked you towards his house. “Y/N you ok? Did he hurt you?”

Shaking your head you relished the feeling of his rough hands in yours, he stopped in front of his house and lightly cupped your cheek and gazed into your eyes. His eyes seeming to be released of the storm, he leaned down and pressed his lips firmly to yours. Releasing your lips fro his but keeping his forehead on yours he goes “I promise i will always be here for you to protect you. I love you babe “

  Smiling and pressing your lips against his again you mumbled “i love you too JJ”

He pulled away and started leading you to your house. 

“Dang kooks.”

~~~~~~~~~

ok i know its terrible im sorry but it just fell into my head

[crystalessenceswrites]

I bet you thought you had seen the last of me. HAHAHAHA *evil laugh* Hey! (sorry for that). I wasn’t home when I sent the first request and I couldn’t see more of your prompts. Now I looked at it all and I have one more, if I may?

Marcus suffered a lot, so the fandom in general likes to set him up in cozy and relationships that he deserves. 40. “I was just thinking… maybe we should move in together.” is such a good one. I am obsessed with the concept of reader being the one to be forward since after everything I believe Marcus would try to hold back a little to not end up hurt again. I am a sucker for reader making it very clear that she loves him and wants all the big stuff. So.... can I request one with s/o asking Marcus to move in? Maybe not even a big thing, just being like “you could just bring your things over, you know. Waking uo to your pretty face everyday would be like a fucking dream” when he asks what she wants for her birthday or something.

Oh, this is too long. Im sorry 😂 but I always jumo on opportunities of more Pike fics. Thank you xoxo

You can have as many Marcus prompts as you want!! This was too cute, Marcus deserves someone who wants him as much as he wants them.

Marcus Pike x gn!reader (there’s one use of the endearment hun because Marcus is a sweetheart)

Warnings: swearing?

Two years ago one slightly scruffy but incredibly charming FBI agent walked into your life and you’ve been on cloud nine ever since. Marcus had swept you off your feet when you met, even despite his hesitance. You understood now why he was cautious and guarded with his feeling, two serious relationships crashing and burning like that would leave anyone jaded. Yet after moving past the initial bumps in the road Marcus was anything but. He was the most attentive, caring and open man you’d ever met, and you found yourself falling more in love with him everyday you spent together. You had known for some time now that Marcus was your one- the one you wanted to wake up to every morning, to come home to every night and to be with through thick and thin. While you had come to that conclusion you had yet to voice it. Every step in your relationship had been careful and slow. A gentle push at each of your boundaries, nothing rushed. There were two coffee dates, a lunch date and one night out for drinks before Marcus had walked you to your door and kissed you for the first time. The depth of your feelings now almost worried you, the last thing you wanted was to push to far and scare Marcus away. Nothing could be rushed. That was okay. You wanted to make Marcus as happy as he made you. You could wait… there were still other steps you two could make before taking the plunge. That still required one of you to ask though.

There had been a few times in the last month you thought Marcus would be open to the idea of moving in together, that he might even ask you first. Something always seemed to stop him, right on the edge of the question. So now you found yourself trying to find the right time to bring it up. To find your courage. It gave you some major appreciation for Marcus and every time he sat down with you to talk about your relationship. He always wanted to be clear on what you both wanted, where you saw things going and how and when you wanted to get there. Communication was key after all. So why was it so hard? He always told you how much he loved you, he would never think less of you for asking, even if he wasn’t ready.

“What’s going on up there?” Marcus’s fingers ghost over your brow, a familiar attempt of his to soothe you. He could always tell when you were wrapped up in your own mind.

“Marcus,” you sigh, sinking further into his embrace, “it’s nothing. Just things…”

“Just things? Not ominous at all,” he chuckles.

“Well when you say it like that!”

His lips ghost down your throat, “so tell me.”

Lolling your head back onto his shoulder you give in, not that its ever been difficult for Marcus to get you talking. “Just everything coming up. Busy next few weeks at the gallery. Lots to think about.”

That was not a complete lie, the gallery you worked for had four exhibitions and fundraisers in the next three weeks. You were bogged down with planning and details. You’d discussed some of it with Marcus before. Even after his long days of chasing down art thieves he still wanted to hear all about you and the gallery.

“Oh hun,” he coos, pressing kissed to the apple of your cheek, “has that been stressing you out?”

“Oh no! I’m on top of everything.” Thank the lord for that. “Just got to thinking, is all.”

“You’re sure you’re alright?”

Bless Marcus and how much he cared about you. “I’m sure, Marcus.”

“Mhmm,” another series of kissed pressed to your cheek, “have you been thinking about what you want to do after the events are over?”

“What do you mean after?”

Marcus has a full body laugh, the kind that has his whole chest rumbling against your back. “In all your planning have you forgotten what next month is?”

The first thought to cross your mind is your anniversary and guilt washes over you. That was the last thing you wanted to forget… but you hadn’t. Your anniversary was two months ago. You’re not that awful with dates. There’s no holidays coming up that you two have any big plans for. No vacations coming up either.

“Did you forget your own birthday, (Y/N)?”

Oh shit, that was next month wasn’t it.

“You did, didn’t you!” he laughs again.

“Just because I haven’t thought about it doesn’t mean I forgot it,” you pout.

“Oh sure,” he teases nipping at the shell of your ear, “so have you thought about what you want for your birthday?”

Hard no on that front.

You were happy. A good job that you enjoyed, an incredible boyfriend and a tight group of friends. There wasn’t anything you needed. Sitting in Marcus’s arms there was nothing else you could ever want. Except maybe what you’re already all twisted up about.

“Well… there’s one thing…”

“There is?”

He does not hide his excitement well. You can feel his smile against your neck. Like a kid about to learn a big secret. Why did that make this harder?

“Well… I-I was just thinking… maybe we should move in together…”

His arms tense around you and you swear he stops breathing. The panic sets in moments after. You had pushed too far, too fast. He wasn’t ready and you’d been misreading it all. Asking too much of him.

“Or- I mean it doesn’t have to be that… you could just bring some of your things over or I could, you know. I was just thinking waking up to your face every morning would be a gift and we could spend more time together- but if that’s not what you want that’s okay… I don’t want to push-”

Marcus cuts off your rambling with a desperate kiss, pushing you back into the couch. You match his fervor with your own, tangling your fingers in the hair at the nape of his neck. Running his tongue along your bottom lip he asks for entrance and you happily allow it, letting him have his way. He leaves you breathless and speechless when he finally pulls away.

“That’d be more of a gift to me than a gift to you,” Marcus grins, “to go to bed and wake up with your everyday would be a fucking dream.”

[nobeliumoxygenoxygenmisc]

asra || you are my sunshine

based on ‘you are my sunshine’ (>1.5k words) - moments in asra’s life, from small snippets of being with you to a journey to a certain island 

--

You are my sunshine

“What are you smiling about?” 

“It’s too bright. Did we forget to set up the tent again?”

Asra blinked blearily up at you as you gave him a quizzical look. “No? We’re inside the tent, Asra.”

“Oh.” He couldn’t help his grin from widening. “I guess I just mistook your brightness for the sun.”

Your answering blush and exasperated laugh was enough to last him the rest of the day, and even though you promptly dumped your blanket on his head, Asra did not regret setting up the conversation just to say that one line. 

My only sunshine

The ride back to Vesuvia was the same as always--the beast sprinting through the desert at breakneck speed, Faust entwined around him and watching their progress with delight. And yet every time he travelled with you, Asra swore he felt happier than the last. No matter if you were talking amiably about whatever had piqued your interest that day, or sleeping, like now.

This time, you sat in front, for he did not want you slipping off as you slept, but whether you sat behind or not, it was always a comfort to feel your presence, your breath on his skin, your hair tickling his face even as he buried himself in it, relishing in your scent. 

You shifted in your seat, mumbling what he made out to be something that sounded suspiciously like “Give me the food, Asra.” He chuckled, the arm around you tightening to reposition yourself. That was both a mistake, and not, for you woke up then.

“How long was I out?”

“Only an hour so far. You can go back to sleep, Y/N.”

You shook your head. “You can sleep this ti...” Your words trailed off as you yawned, and you ducked your head in embarrassment. You didn’t have to turn to see Asra’s smug expression.

“Yes, Y/N?”

“Sleep!” Faust said.

“Faust says sleep,” Asra relayed.

“Fine, fine, I get it you two. I’ll go to sleep again,” You grumbled, settling back into his chest as he laughed once more.

You make me happy

The shop was probably one of the most unconventional shops there was in Vesuvia. There was never a set opening and closing time, and most regular patrons just had to be accustomed to a kind of feeling they had to cultivate to determine whether or not they would be open. And yet there were times when handling customers and doing readings did become mundane, and too much of a routine for Asra’s liking. 

Still, you always seemed to make everyday just a bit different.

“So I didn’t know whether to buy the pumpkin bread or try Selasi’s new recipe because I know you were craving the pumpkin bread today but, but the new bread looked and smelled heavenly so I bought both and well, um, we have…” You mumbled the rest under your breath, seemingly too embarrassed to continue.

“We have..?” Asra prompted, giving you a reassuring smile. You looked sheepish, but Asra knew that whatever you did would never be able to anger him. 

“We now have nothing else for lunch or dinner now,” You finished. “I’m sorry!” You added quickly, continuing. “But we have lots of bread and I think bread for dinner is nice, right? Selasi’s bread has never failed us after all and--”

Asra did not like interrupting you, but he couldn’t help the laugh that spewed out. Pretty soon, you joined in, leaning against the counter to allow Faust to poke her head into the bags full of loaves.

“Y/N,” He began when he cooled down. “You don’t have to look so worried. Of course we can have bread for lunch. And dinner.” You relaxed, smiling. “Even if it’s just bread.”

When you had both settled down upstairs, you handed Asra his bread loaf and a knife, giving him a silly grin before saying, “Your meal, master Asra.” He snorted and took a bite. “Is it to your liking? Or would master Asra prefer another dish?”

He played along, giving a contemplative ‘hm’. “What would the chef recommend?”

“More bread,” You said at the same time Faust squealed “Bread!” happily.

He smiled. “Then I shall take their recommendation.”

When skies are grey

Some days were hard. Long days in the shop, when the desire to travel had reached its peak, for one. And the anniversary of his parents’ death, for another. 

Asra had always thought he preferred to be alone for that day, save for Faust curled up around him. Muriel had understood, but he’d always ensured Faust stayed with him to keep him safe, and most importantly, grounded. Asra had never realised just how much your presence, even silent and still, was so, so wanted.

His head lied in your lap, face pushed into your stomach and his arms wrapped awkwardly around you. He wasn’t sleeping, neither of you were, but though it was silent and you mindlessly stroked his hair, it was enough. 

For now, it was enough.

You’ll never know dear

There were so many moments that you never saw Asra looking. 

Like the times when you laughed too hard at something--hopefully at something he had said--, eyes shut, doubled over, the twinkling of your laughter literal music to his ears, as cheesy as that was. Or the late nights when you and he talked about anything and everything, sometimes until your eyes couldn’t stay open but you continued to talk and listen. Or when you’d go into the market and he’d wait on the side as you bartered and bought whatever you two needed. Early mornings when you woke up later than him--admittedly rare mornings--, not awake enough to notice Asra’s gaze. When you’re talking about something that you’re passionate about, stars in your eyes, frowning a bit when you catch him just staring and not quite listening. 

So many moments that you never caught, just because you weren’t looking. So many smiles that were reserved just for you.

Always just for you.

How much I love you

“Clearly I love you more, Asra.”

“Y/N, there’s something you have to know.” You gave him a challenging raised eyebrow. “You need glasses, because what’s clear here is that I love you more.”

Rolling your eyes, you playfully pushed him away as you both lay in bed. “Hm, I’m not so sure about that.” You got up on your elbows, grinning down at him. “Let’s see, I wouldn’t be able to count all the ways I love you on all the hands of the people in Vesuvia.”

Asra grinned back, a mirrored challenging gleam in his eyes. “Ah, but I wouldn’t be able to count all the ways I love you on all the hands of the world.”

You momentarily pouted, before persevering for there was no way you were going to lose now. “I was wrong. I meant, I would need all the stars in the galaxy to count the ways I love you.”

He only smiled wider. “And I would need all the stars in all the magical realms and this one to count the ways I love you.”

“Oh, but are there stars in all the realms?”

“Maybe not all of them, but I already know the Magician’s realm does, and that’s already a galaxy on it’s own.”

There was a competitive glint in both your eyes now.

There was no way either of you were going to lose, it seemed.

Please

Arguments were rare. Of course, there were the almost daily play fights, sometimes even escalating into a pillow fight that constituted the only physical violence--if one could even call it that--between you two. 

But if anything became too strained, it was almost a tie to see who would apologise first. Sometimes you were stubborn, so most of the time Asra won. But other times he had to take a walk around Vesuvia just to get his thoughts into an organised order before he could return, and by then both of you were willing to apologise or compromise.

It was very, very rare that Asra left Vesuvia completely after an argument. For if there was one thing he had to do before going on adventures you couldn’t accompany, it was making sure you knew just how much he loved you before he left. You had once joked that it sounded too much like he was leaving for good and he’d told you that that would never be true. You had then said, “Well, don’t make it sound so much like you’re going to die out there or something, okay?” You two had shared a laugh back then, you playfully telling Faust to take care of Asra in case his fluffy white hair joined their cloudy brethren in the sky, leaving him vulnerable to whatever was out there.

Neither of you had thought that the day he couldn’t say anything to you would come.

Neither of you had thought that it would be you who would not return. For in a sense, you were each other’s homes.

Don’t take

Running through Vesuvia had never been as terrifying as that moment. 

Asra ran; Faust and him giving alleyways quick glances, every hooded face a look, scanning crowds and everyone and anyone who passed him.

The crowds thinned the closer they got to the docks. 

Shipments to the Lazaret that day had ended, so the docks were ominously empty, save for the few sails men tying up their boats. 

Asra had all but jumped into the one boat left untied, the sailor crying out in confusion more than anger, for when they saw Asra’s sweating pain-stricken face, they all but backed off.

Especially when they saw how he looked at the island with more fear than anyone should had ever known.

My sunshine

He had felt it.

He had felt it as if it was burning his own skin.

The flames tearing into him, melting his very being and yet, at the very same time, doing absolutely nothing.

For it was not him who had gone through that pain.

It was you.

The pain in his fingers was nothing compared to that. Compared to the ache in his chest, as if something that was supposed to be beating inside was not, as if it had been carved out and the weight of the object in his hand was not the handful of ash and dirt, but his own heart instead, slipping through his fingers.

Falling, falling, falling.

Even though you had brightness to rival the sun, Asra knew that those flames would have stopped at nothing to devour all in their path.

You were gone.

You were gone.

Away 

--

asra and angst just go hand in hand im so sorry. i was hoping my second arcana fic would be happier lmao - thank u for reading tell me if you liked it?

[yourhero404]

what's up! it's ya boy! got a good one for you i think. "our best friend's dragged us to this super creepy large cemetery, and now they both ditched and it's just us out here with the graves, and oh shit did you hear that? was that coming from the church?" AU with Amajiki and a gender neutral reader? (i would've gone with trans male but i think this should be for everyone to enjoy!! so gender neutral for everybody!!) i imagine that the reader hates being outside in the dark but stays brave!

A/N: Yay, you’re back!! (ﾉ^ヮ^)ﾉ*:・ﾟ✧ I love this prompt oh my god askldjfh (also, you’re so sweet ily so much already, im glad to see you♥) (also please forgive me if there’s errors?? I finished this up during work since im swamped this week o o f )

TAMAKI

The two of them walked behind their much rowdier friends, keeping close to one another as their eyes darted to their surroundings. (Y/n) kept their spine abnormally straight with their chest puffed out, though their nervousness was evident by their tight-lipped expression- the same could not be said for their dark-haired counterpart. 

They glanced at him from the corner of their eye, noticing how hunched over his stature was- more than usual, that is. His eyes were swimming with fear, darting around him so fast it was hard to tell just what he was focused on, if he was focused at all. Neither of you paid attention to the pair of braver people in front of you, leading to you staggering backwards after running into a stronger back.

“How ya guys holding up?” Mirio asked, giving them both a thumbs up, despite whatever answer they gave, “Good!”

“Do you remember a time he ever gave us a chance to answer?” you lean towards Tamaki and whisper.

“No, not really,” he mumbled back.

(Y/n) took a moment to actually look around, letting their eyes adjust to the darkness and make out the figures looming in the shadows- the four of them had stopped for some reason that their paranoid mind had tuned out. The moon lit up the backs of tombstones, the breeze caused empty branches to shake, and a large, ominous building sat a few yards away. Their focus fell on that rather than the creepy idea of them being surrounded by the deceased- it was a run down church of some sort and seemingly untouched for decades, vines had taken over as different parts started to crumble and allotted dirt and grime plagued the once crisp, holy walls. Their eyes had to have been playing tricks on them- there was no possible way the curtains in the window pulled themselves shut. They must have been staring for far too long or their body seemed far too stiff, causing Tamaki to lightly brush his fingertips against their wrist to snap them back to reality.

“(Y/n), are you alright?” he asked, letting his fingers linger against their skin, “You seem tense.”

“Tamaki, are you really one to talk?” they teased, trying to reign their brave-faced façade back in, “You’re always tense.”

“Exactly why I’m concerned; I’m always nervous but you… aren’t usually like this,” his voice grew quiet, afraid of crossing a line.

“Ah, it’s nothing…” they laughed half-heartedly, “It’s just uh… just a creepy place to be if you think about it. We’re surrounded by dead people in the middle of the night- wait… what are we even doing here-“ they turned to where Mirio once stood, now blinking in surprise in the realization that he was gone, “Where did Mirio go?”

“He and Nejire left a little while ago- said something about needing to go head back to town to get something…”

“How long ago did they leave?”

“…10 minutes ago-“

“You stood there and let me space off for 10 whole minutes?” they asked, their expression a mixture of confusion and despair.

“I didn’t want to interrupt you incase it upset you…”

They sighed, shaking their head and raising a hand to point at the church- their hand shook violently and concerned Tamaki to the point that he gently pushed their hand down to their side, neither of them realizing just how long he held on to them afterwards.

“That, that’s what I was spacing out on. Doesn’t it seem weird to you?”

“(Y/n), everything about this trip seems weird to me.”

“Well, you aren’t wrong…” they squinted in attempt to focus their vision, honing in on the window they previously saw movement in, “But I… I saw something in there. Actually, I saw the curtain move, not an actual person… but still, I definitely saw something-“

“Please don’t say that,” he stammered with a nervous smile.

“I’m not kidding Tama,” the use of the simple nickname they gave him let him know they meant business, “I watched the curtain pull shut. There’s someone in there.”

He looked between them and the building, slowly shrinking as he folding into himself out of fear. Without warning, he jumped up with a small squeal which caused them to do the same- the wind blowing through the empty branches above them made a soft whistling sound that could be mistaken as a howl. Just as the two of them started to settle down and catch their breath, their attention was turned to the loud calling of a crow, startling them enough to cause shivers down their spines. 

They huddle close together, standing close enough to relish in each others body heat and let silence fall upon them as a comfort. Leaning against the closest tombstone, they felt Tamaki lightly brush his fingertips against their arm, keeping his eyes glued to their shoes; (Y/n) welcomed the action by moving to intertwine their fingers together and smile at the blush that took over their friends face.

“Scared, Tamaki?” they teased, their cheeky smile dropping the instant he looked at them as though they were ridiculous.

“What kind of question was that!” his voice came out shrill, “Besides, you’re scared too!”

“I’m not scared! I’m just… unsettled by the idea of being out here… at night. I already said that.”

“Afraid of the dark?”

“Afraid of what’s in the dark!” they swung their intertwined hands in emphasis, “Think about it- who knows what’s really out here! Anything can come up and-“

“Please stop that,” Tamaki begged once again, cutting them off by placing his free hand over their mouth. 

Both of them took a moment before realizing just how close their bodies had become, causing a blush to spread across every inch of exposed skin between the two of them. Tamaki removed his hand and instead moved to scratch the back of his neck nervously- though (Y/n) kept their hold on his other hand. 

“Sorry…” he started, clearing his throat and staring at the ground, only looking at them with quick glances, “It’s just uh… that story Mirio told us- I don’t want you to accidentally jinx it.”

“Which story? He’s always spouting out nonsense.”

“The one about…” his eyes trained on the church, leaning his face in close to whisper as if something could hear him, “The nun.”

“Uhg,” they whined, “Why did you remind me! Now what I saw made more sense!”

The two of them turn their full attention to the building now, letting their eyes hyper-fixate on any view they may have into the building. 

Recalling the story Mirio made, they envisioned each and every scene, letting it play out in front of their eyes in real time. It was a simple story, really; A soft, gentle nun who was loved amongst everyone had met her untimely end with a brutal swing of the axe held by one angry teenage orphan who couldn’t handle rejection well. But the details Mirio had used to spruce up his story, sound effects and all, set up a terrifying and gory play; (Y/n) and Tamaki both cringed, knowing just what the other had pictured.

“(Y/n)…” Tamaki whispered, “Do you see that? The stain glass window.”

They looked through the colours, watching a dark shadow pass behind the shards of glass on the second floor. It moved from one window to another- the closer it got to the clear window at the front of the building, the tighter their hands held one another’s. Before either of them could process what they had been witnessing, a bright, white figure smacked against the window, a loud, screeching howl following suit. The figure seemed crazed, eyes bulging and mouth opened wide to compensate their scream- Tamaki and (Y/n) noticed the tattered habit it dawned, the fear finally striking their hearts.

Screams bubbled up both of their throats- though Tamaki surprised them almost as much as the ghost had. Watching the ghost of nuns past must have overrode his fear, kicking his hero instincts into high gear- surprisingly strong arms lifted them from the ground, throwing their face against the side of his neck as he carried them bridal style, running in the opposite direction of the church- fighting back a lecture the entire way and settled on simply screaming about how they warned them about jinxing the story as he ran as far away as he could without looking back.

Little did the two of them know, their friends had made their way into that church as (Y/n) and Tamaki had been distracted- stood together and nervously attempted their version of flirting. Mirio and Nejire had planned from the beginning to scare the new awkward friends into staying as close as they could, comforting one another in an attempt to finally get them together- though it seemed to work a little two well. They laughed at their plans, watching as Tamaki had somehow found the courage to whisk (Y/n) away, but what were the two of them watching on the floor above?

[hwarangbangbang]

mark tuan » better. much better.

i got the idea of doing this from reading a bed sharing AU i found on Tumblr, you can find it here. i take no credit for these prompts or gifs, however i do take credit for writing these stories.

mark | jaebum | jinyoung | jackson | youngjae | bambam | yugyeom

title - better. much better. prompt - “we've had this tradition as besties to have a sleepover once a year but ths year... it feels different... were your pajamas always this cute?? did I always have butterflies???” pairing: mark tuan/fem!reader tags - hella fluff cause it's what I do, kissing, hickies, friends-to-lovers, angst I guess?? JFC just read it. pls be nice bc im soft af, who doesn't love frazier, and forgetting sarah marshall coME ON, ask me about me weiner, sry not sry word count - 3,012 words author's note - this is one of the longest oneshots i've ever written, it's just barely over three thousand words I know I'm weak I'm sORRY. enjoy!

Four years. Four years was how long you'd gone without seeing your best friend. Four years since he moved to South Korea from his home in Los Angeles to become a trainee under the JYP Ent. corporation and become an idol. Four years since you two last hugged, last physically saw or touched each other face to face.

But more importantly, four years since you'd had your annual best friend sleepover.

On those nights for the first two years, the third weekend in the month of July, you two would FaceTime and Skype as much as you could, with Mark's apologies that he couldn't be there, and you two just talking and catching up. However these past two years, he never called. And when you would attempt to get in touch with him, he'd either be too busy with schedules to pick up, or too tired to answer.

Either way, you got nothing.

Sure, he'd text you an 'I'm sorry,' but after that and a few hours of messages, you wouldn't hear anything. And it's not like he didn't care.  He was busy -- and you understood that. And as that third weekend in July began to come up, you weren't surprised to hear your phone ding while you were in the middle of grocery shopping. However what you were surprised to see was that it was a text message from Mark.

I have a surprise for you, (Y/N)~

Your brows furrowed in confusion, sending a quick message back before you began to pile your groceries onto an aisle's conveyor belt so you could pay and go home.

You somehow managed to get me a date with Gong Yoo? Ooh, no! Wait, let me guess, Park Hyung Sik?

A small smile graced your features and you had to remind yourself that he was your best friend. Your best friend who you totally weren't crushing on at all. You planned to tell him before he left for Korea, but considering it was so sudden, you hadn't mustered up the courage when his parents drove you both to the airport so you could say goodbye to him with them.

His parents shipped you two more than all of the Aghases in the world shipped MarkBam. His mother would constantly ask you when you would be giving her grand children, when you two were going to finally get together, it was rather endearing, but it always had to come to a stop when you realized you couldn't actually do that. Because you didn't want to fuck things up in the end. The only thing it did was get your hopes up.

You didn't tell him because you didn't want him to feel like he had obligations to you. Because you wanted him to go live his life and enjoy it without worrying about you. Because you didn't want to fuck up the one good friendship you'd had since you guys were four years old. Because you were scared of the rejection you knew you'd face.

You pulled out your money and paid for your groceries, giving a small smile to the bag boy and told him to have a nice day, before rolling the cart out to your vehicle. It was dark outside, very dark, it was almost ten at night, but you had gotten caught up late at work so you had a late start getting groceries. After you got all of them in, you got in your car and put on your seatbelt, starting the engine.

And there goes your phone again, dinging from where it sat in the passenger seat.

Better. Much better.

Ominous. Very, very ominous. You didn't know whether to be excited or scared. Regardless, you put your phone back down after replying and began your drive home.

You're scaring me, Tuan. Should I be worried?

Your phone dinged once more as you were driving, but given that you can barely walk and chew gum at the same time, it wasn't wise to try and read a text message while piloting a huge piece of machinery. As you pulled into your driveway, you picked up your phone, killing the engine.

However, just as you were about to reply, a FaceTime request with Mark popped up. You tilted your head slightly in confusion but clicked accept.

"(Y/N)! Are you ready to see your surprise?"

You could barely see him apart from the streetlights on the small screen of your phone, and his did little to illuminate his own face.

"I'm a little nervous... But su-"

The reason you didn't finish your sentence was because you let out an earth shattering scream.

Because there was a knock at your window, which startled you. And peering closer, you saw that none other than your best friend, Mark Yi En Tuan was the one knocking on said window.

It took you a good few minutes to process it. But then you were ecstatic. You threw open the car door, at risk of ripping it off it's hinges, and you embraced Mark in the biggest and tightest hug you ever thought imaginable. You buried your face in his neck, small squeals of surprise and happiness overtaking you as he lifted you off the ground and spun you a bit, hugging you just as tight as you did him.

And you felt your heart ache a little when you two parted.

"What the hell are you doing here?! I thought you were still waiting for your comeback in Korea?"

A beautiful smile graced his face. "This tour is spread to the U.S. as well, and our second concert is in a few days here in L.A."

Your eyes grew rather big as you thought it over. "So does that mean... d-does that mean we can have our amazing spectacular best friend sleep over this year?"

Mark gestured to a miniature suitcase that was on the ground next to him that you assumed had clothes and other necessities in it.

"Yes. This means we can have our amazing spectacular best friend sleep over that I've missed the past four years."

~*~*~*~*~

Mark helped you bring in the groceries and you put them away while he got changed into his pajamas for the night. You couldn't believe this... Your best friend after four years finally comes back -- he remembered and he didn't forget about you and it made your heart swell with contentment. After putting away the groceries, you pulled out a few bags of popcorn and set them in the microwave one by one, filling the huge bowl you had stuffed away in storage, used only once a year at the sleepover. It definitely was dusty, but a good wash had it clean in no time.

You hadn't heard Mark walk in until he came over and rested his chin on your shoulder, a small gesture that you had completely forgotten about and it made you jump slightly. "Popcorn smells good." Mark commented, rubbing his hands up and down your arms, trying to warm them up since externally you were freezing.

However having him this close, with how much he'd grown up and how long you'd been apart, was making your cheeks warm in no time.

"Would you mind watching it for a minute? I'm gonna go change." You told him and he nodded, rubbing your back in a small departure gesture before you scampered off to your room to go change.

This kid was gonna be the death of you eventually.

You decided on a pair of black shorts and a white tank top with a pair of fuzzy grey socks, appropriate sleep over attire, making sure nothing important was on display before you walked out to see him pouring the last of the popcorn in the bowl, filling it to the brim.

You watched him as he did it. He certainly had matured from the awkward, cute kid you knew him as... He had gotten much taller, and thankfully they had let his brown hair live to see another day. It was slightly long, not too much, and his skin was tanner though only by a little. His shoulders were more broad, his shirt leaving little to the imagination as it clung to his body. He wasn't muscular, but lean -- and the veins in his forearms were definitely not helping with your act of playing cool around him.

"(Y/N)?"

You snapped out of your daze, just in time to see him throwing a few pieces of popcorn into his mouth, sucking off the butter and salt from his fingers and dear god that wasn't helping. You tried to ignore the smirk on his face, walking up to him and grabbing a few pieces of popcorn for yourself. Opening the fridge, you grabbed a few sodas and walked out to the living room, setting down the sodas on the entertainment center before going to pull out the futon.

"So-" Mark began, putting down the popcorn and nudging you aside so he could do it for you -- though not that you were complaining, it gave you ample time to lowkey watch his physique. "What are we watching tonight?" He said with slight strain to his voice as he pulled it out, grabbing the pillows off the floor and tossed them on the bed, plopping down with the bowl of popcorn in hands.

"Well, as much as I wish to torture you with romance films and chick flicks-" you started, sitting up at the far right corner of the bed, grabbing the blanket as you were cold, "I think I need a few laughs. You up for a comedy?" You asked and he grinned brightly. "When am I ever not up for comedy?"

You two ended up watching White Chicks, followed by Anchor Man, and then binged on a few episodes of Fraizer. You missed it. Laughing with him until your sides hurt, throwing popcorn at one another, poking each other randomly just because -- you missed the friendship, the closeness, you missed him. God, it'd been four years since you'd seen him and it felt good to laugh out the frustration you had the past few years without him.

"(Y/N)? Wanna play a game?"

This caught your attention. Games with Mark were dangerous.. Mainly due to the fact that it was typically truth or dare, and the last time you played that with Mark you nearly broke your ankle after running around outside in nothing but a BatMan onsie, yelling "ASK ME ABOUT MY WEINER" at four in the morning four a solid minute.

That was when you were thirteen and ''Forgetting Sarah Marshall'' was the shit.

But for some reason, you always agreed.

And here you were, six truths in from either side, and two dares from his side. You found out what kind of girls he dated in Korea if any, he found out that you watched the same K-Dramas Yugyeom did. They were all normal and not as mean as you knew Mark out to be in these types of games.

Which was suspicious as all hell.

"Alright, Mark. Truth or dare?" You had an overly dramatic tone to your voice, and he chuckled lowly, his eyes never leaving yours from where he sat on the opposite side of the bed before answering just as dramatically. "Dare."

Well that was a change.

You thought for a minute before a small smirk came over your face. He'd been playing with you all night, at least it felt that way in your head, with lingering stares and touches, so now it was time for a little teasing in return.

"Mr. Tuan, I dare you to tell me your kinks."

Mark pinked sightly, but brushed it off easily. "And here I thought you were going hard on me-" he laughed and you thought you'd caught a glimpse of silver, but you just nudged it away as he responded.

"Well, it's definitely been a while...Almost too long since I've gotten any with schedules. But my kinks definitely revolve around," Mark licked his lips and you saw it. The two silver barbells just underneath his tongue. "Using my tongue." Fuck, if that didn't have your panties flooded by now, you didn't know what else would. You often imagined what it'd be like to kiss Mark, but after seeing those it brought a whole new perspective into light.

You shook your head slightly, running a hand through your hair. "Y-Your t-turn."

Mark pretended to think for a minute before biting his lower lip, looking down at you. "Dare or Dare?" You scoffed, "it's truth or dare!" You protested and he shook his head. "No, you've been picking truths all this time! Come on, (Y/N) live a little!"

With a groan, you planted your face into your palms. "Fine, dare." You grumbled.

"I dare you to give me a hickey."

Your head shot up, eyes wide and mouth slightly agape.

"I-I beg your p-pardon?"

"Give."

"Me."

"A hickey."

"You know, those marks you leave on someone's neck or chest or hi-"

You squeaked at his teasing words, scrambling to shove your hands over his mouth. "H-Hey, I know what it is! I don't need an explanation!" You yelled and he laughed, grabbing your wrist and pulling you fully to sit on his lap, your legs wrapped around his hips and your faces dangerously close.

"If you're not comfortable, we don't ha-"

Mustering up what little courage you had, you cut him off mid sentence.

"I'll do it."

That certainly got his attention. A big smirk spread across his face, and he bit his lip before slightly lifting his head so you got more access. "Do your worst, (Y/N)." And you were more than happy to. All the teasing from his end was about to get handed back to him, and you couldn't be more enthralled.

So, you got to work. You made little kitten licks up the side of his jugular, blowing cool air on his skin to which you saw goosebumps forming already. You placed a small open-mouthed kiss just at his pulse point, feeling him shudder and he could feel you smile against his skin as he gripped your thighs slightly.

"Someone's enjoying themselves."

He scoffed, "don't make me laugh, (Y/N)-"

To cut him off, you bit down into the skin, just hard enough to get his attention, you sucked lightly at the skin until a small red and purple mark formed, and you pulled back after a small kiss of apology to the blooming bruise on his neck. He was breathing heavy, his lower lip worried in between his teeth so badly you were fearing he'd draw blood. He wouldn't let go of your thighs either, his grip having hardened throughout the ordeal.

"Are you satis-"

Then he attacked. His lips clashed with yours, one hand moving up from grabbing at your thighs to grip the back of your neck, pushing your lips closer together if that was even possible, the other still massaging his own set of bruises into your thigh. He lightly pushed you down towards the bed, and you felt two small, cold steel balls at your bottom lip, asking for entrance.

He had his tongue pierced, as you previously suspected. That was fucking hot.

You allowed him entrance, and the two of you kissed languidly, your hands curling in his hair and when you pulled away, he was still chasing your lips for more. His hands were halfway up your shirt, dancing along your ribs and pulling it up but not all the way to where you'd be entirely exposed to him.

"D-Does this m-mean that-"

"Yes, (Y/N), it means I like you back. And it also means I'd very much like to stop being your best friend and start being your boyfriend."

A small flush of pink dusts your cheeks as you looked up at him in awe. "You knew I liked you? All this time?"

He smiled brightly, a small laugh leaving his throat. "I had the suspicion when I left for Korea. You only confirmed it just now with that hickey. No person I know would give their best friends a hickey that well if they were just best friends-" He brushed a strand of hair away from your face. You sighed, opening your mouth to make a smart ass retort when he leaned down and gave you another kiss that took your breath away in seconds.

He let his lips trail further until they were at the top of your sternum, just between your breasts and he sucked a dark mark into the skin, doing the same to the spot where your neck met your shoulder. Oh, your friends were never going to let you live that down. But then again, you were almost positive that you didn't mind it with how he was making you feel right now. It blew your mind to think that your best friend of so long could make a fire erupt in the pit of your stomach in mere seconds.

However, he stopped and pulled back, a concerned look on his face. "So is that a yes?"

With a huge grin, you nodded in response.

"But that makes me better than Gong Yoo and Park Hyung Sik, right?"

With a chortle, you rolled the two of you over so you were straddling his waist, you leaned down and kissed him sensually, your knew-found knowledge of making out servicing you well. When you pulled away, you dismissed his worries.

"You're better. Much better."

general masterlist

[indigomasquerade97]

A Shift In Perspective pt3

Okay, here’s the final part to my entry for @arc852 . Enjoy!

'Where the bloody hell is he?' Jack asked aloud, glancing again at the clock on the wall. It was nearly lunchtime, and Mark still hadn't returned home. He'd been gone nearly twelve hours now.

Jack fidgeted on the couch cushion. Mark had never done this before. He'd never just stay out all night like this.

Worst case scenarios began to form in his head. What if Mark had gotten hurt on his walk? Or kidnapped? What if the giant goober was dead? If anything had happened, there would be no way for Jack to find out. He couldn't open the door or windows, and even if he somehow found a way outside, he'd just be walking aimlessly in a world built exclusively for humans. And if any of them saw him, they were likely to snatch him up and he'd be stolen away from his search. Away from his best friend.

There would be no way for him to fight them, and they wouldn't listen to his pleas for search and rescue. He was just a dumb animal to humans, after all. Why would they ever listen to him?

Click.

Jack's head snapped up at the noise. The front door was creaking open. He sniffed, wiping at his wet eyes. He stood up, determined to hide his moment of indulging in depressive thoughts. He had a giant to reprimand.

As soon as Mark walked through the hallway, Jack let him have it.

'Mark Edward Fischbach! Where the fook have you been? I was worried sick, dude!' He yelled out, used to having to raise his voice to be heard by his human. His natural loudness helped immensely. Mark froze, his relieved smile turning into one of uncomfortable shock. Yeah, you'd better look uncomfortable, Jack thought irritably. How dare his human scare him like that!

Then someone was chuckling. A human wearing a dark cape sauntered in after Mark, looking thoroughly amused by the standoff.

'And I thought Takota was a handful.' He joked. He seemed amused that both of them had green dye through their hair, though the humans was a lighter, more vibrant colour.

'Uhhh... who's that?' Jack asked, trying to repress his initial fright at being around an unknown human. Mark was here. Jack was safe.

'Um... this is Jason.' Mark introduced awkwardly, and Jason waved pleasantly. He was shorter than Mark by a few inches, and younger than Jack first thought. He couldn't be older than eighteen. But he seemed non-threatening.

'Okay, pleasantries aside... Mark, where were you?' Jack demanded. Back on track. I'm mad at 'im!

The two humans shared a glance. Mark looked like he was lost for words. Jason looked amused, silently laughing at his struggle.

'Um... would you believe me if I said I was abducted by giant aliens? And Jason's one of 'em and saved me?'

Jack glared heatedly. Really? Mark was going to go with a ridiculous story like that?

'Do I look like a fookin' idiot?' He asked. Jason snorted, failing to hide his mirth.

'He ain't bluffin, half-pint. I got him and a bunch o' others out of the beginnings of a major slave trade. We only just got around to getting him home, since he's been trying to convince me to come for a drink the last hour.' Jason said, smiling warmly. Jack rounded his glare on him.

'Look, I know you humans think my kind are stupid and gullible, but aliens don't exist!' Jack declared. Jason raised an inquisitive eyebrow.

'A hundred years ago, humans didn't think you guys existed, either,' He said, leaning forward almost ominously, 'Just because you haven't met one, doesn't mean we don't exist.'

Then something frightening happened. Jason's form began to melt and pixilate, becoming a swarm of colours that squirmed and waved before returning to their initial pristine shape. Jack felt himself pale, especially when the kids eyes began flashing different colours.

'Expand your horizons, eh mate?' Jason said, leaning back casually with a small chuckle.

'Uh, anyone want something to drink? Okay, in here.' Mark quickly led Jason into the kitchen, which gave Jack a moment to compose himself. He blinked, a hand clutching at the thick fabric over his heart. Jesus, that was terrifying!

Mark returned soon after, holding a bottle cap full of soda and a giant cookie. He gingerly placed them in front of Jack.

'I, uhh... I'm sorry about scaring ya, dude,' Mark said timidly, smiling hopefully, 'Forgive me?'

Jack glared at him, then glanced at the cookie bribe. It was a chocolate chip, and looked delicious.

'Never! I'll never forgive you for abandoning me!' Jack declared dramatically, bending down to drag the cookie closer, 'I'll just take this with me!' He sat down and pulled off a chunk, taking a bite. Just as chocolatey as he'd hoped. Mark was smirking at him almost triumphantly. Jack pointed at him mock accusingly.

'This means nothing!' Mark laughed, gently nudging him with his knuckle. Jack nearly did a double-take; the familiar action was much slower and gentle, as opposed the the careless speed Mark usually portrayed.

'Whateva you say, leprechaun.'

'You two are adorable, you know that?' Jason said, leaning against the doorway to the kitchen. He held a small cup of water in one hand, which he didn't drink from.

'You aren't gonna have your drink?' Mark asked. Jason smiled, gently placing the cup on the coffee table.

'To be honest, this form can't actually consume food or liquids like that.'

'Then... why did you come over?'

'Truth be told, I wanted to see your relationship with Jack,' Jason said, looking sheepish, 'You guys really are close friends, huh?'

'Yeah...?' Jack said, glancing up at Mark. But he was too distracted to notice his silent look of inquiry.

'Actually, I was wondering if you two would like to partner up with us,' Jason continued, sitting down in a chair opposite them, 'I need to send a memo to my mentor so she knows this planet is liable to go down a dark road. We want to try and avoid that if possible.'

'And... where do we fit?' Mark asked. Jason sighed.

'This “pet trade” is unacceptable,' He said heatedly, 'I want to create a movement to outlaw the trade and form legal rights for the smaller folk.'

The two friends glanced at each other. A movement to put an end to the horrendous trade? Sure, their friend Phil was a lawyer and was doing what he could to help, but there was little support from the general public to support such a reform. But, if the alien truly wanted to help...

'How would we do this?' Jack asked, his interest peaked.

'We need to show the population that your kind is not the stupid, lesser beings that the media claims you are. If we can prove that, we can begin to show how both your species would benefit from a mutual agreement rather than a master/pet one,' Jason explained, 'They need to see a Tiny being treated as an equal rather than an animal. With enough exposure and prompted discussion, eventually the people will become more open to the idea and we will have a stronger case.'

'Well... it's Jack's choice, really.' Mark stated after a moment.

The two looked down at Jack, who felt put on the spot. He gulped, thinking it over. Their friends were very vocal about their views of Tiny's, and they were practically ridiculed for it. If they went on a higher scale like this, that mild ridicule could morph into full blown hate and death threats. It was risky...

But he thought about his family back in Ireland. They were constantly in fear of being discovered by humans. And if they ever were, they would be damned into a life of servitude for some human. There was no guarantee they would find a kind human, and even most of those still saw them as mere animals. If they could do this, they would not have to live in such fear. They would be free. He, and all his other friends would be free of the looming threat of losing ones free will.

'I want to help.' He declared, feeling determined. Nothing would deter him from this!

'Excellent,' Jason said, standing up, 'I will get in contact with you at a later date. For now, I need to get everything sorted.'

And then Jason fizzed out of existence, leaving no trace of his presence. The two friends were left alone. They looked at each other.

'So... you were serious before? About him being a giant to you?' Jack asked.

'Yeah.'

'… Did he grab you? Or pick you up?'

'… Yeah.'

'Did ya squeal like a wee girl?' Jack grinned as Mark blushed with embarrassment.

'A little, yeah.' Jack began to cackle with amusement.

'Ha! Oh jasus! Now you know what its like!'

~

Marshal strolled through the hallway, practically ripping his hair out. He tried desperately to ignore the men squabbling around him like seagulls, but found it harder than he thought.

'Sir, please-'

'Slow down-'

'Mr President-'

You have been missing for hours-'

'Where have you been?'

They were too loud. He needed to get away. He needed to think. He needed time alone!

He rushed towards his office, the gaggle of men still on his heels. He sighed, turning to face them once he got to his door.

'I will inform you of my whereabouts at a later date,' He said, discretely backing into the room, 'But for now, I need a few minutes to recuperate myself.'

He quickly shut the door, locking himself from their concerned demands. He sighed, resting his head against the cool wood. It was nice to be alone for a moment, even if he could still hear their muffled voices on the other side.

He turned to his office, the symbol on the polished floor shining despite the relative dark. Faint sunlight lit up the edges of the closed curtain, and he reached out to switch the light on. The lights remained stubbornly off, despite the repeated attempts.

Marshal sighed in annoyance, rubbing his temple as he strolled towards his desk. Light outages weren't common, and it made the actual occurrences all the more annoying. But he didn't open the door to inform anyone of the problem. If he did, the room would be invaded by the very people he was trying to get away from. But maybe a nap would be better than catching up on paperwork, anyway?

'Afternoon, sir.'

Marshal gasped, flinching back at the unexpected voice. His big chair spun around, revealing a pretty teen girl. She was wearing modest clothes, all black and making her partially blend into the dark. She had her arms crossed, a serious glint in her blue eyes as she silently appraised him. He took a deep breath, frowning at her. How did a sixteen year old girl get passed security?

'Who are you?' He demanded, 'How did you even get in here?'

'You can call me Ashley,' She said, smirking as she added sarcastically, 'and I fazed through the wall.'

'You aren't supposed to be in here!' Marshal said, stepping closer so he would loom over the shorter girl. His attempt to seem intimidating fell short when he tripped over his own two feet, planting a hand on the desk to keep himself from falling on his ass. She rolled her eyes at the pathetic attempt.

'I have to disagree,' She said, calmly standing up, 'We have a lot to talk about.'

Marshal shook his head, turning his back to her. He had to call in security. While he doubted the girl was a real sort of threat, he still couldn't allow someone to simply break into his office.

But he froze when he noticed the second intruder, idly throwing an apple in the air like a softball. Marshal felt his heart begin racing. Familiar dark green eyes, flaming lime hair, shimmering grey cloak... Jason smirked at his look of horrified recognition.

'Hey mate,' He muttered, cocking his head as he tossed the apple again, 'Didn't I saw we'd see each other again?'

Marshal opened his mouth to scream, but a slender hand covered it and effectively silenced him. He struggled against the girl, but her willowy form betrayed her strength. She had no trouble dragging him to his chair, dumping him into it.

Marshal was near hyperventilating, eyes darting between the two beings. There was little doubt in his mind that the two were aliens, though he didn't know how they were able to appear before him like this. Weren't they meant to be huge?

'W-what do you w-want with me?' He demanded, trying to keep himself from stuttering, and failing miserably. The girl looked sheepish, rubbing the back of her neck awkwardly. Jason's hard expression never changed as he tossed the apple.  

'Your planet is progressing to the point where our enemies are becoming aware of you,' She said, shrugging apologetically, 'We need to form a contract with you so we can legally get involved when they inevitably attack.'

'But... your just talking to me?' He asked. First contact should have been important enough to warrant a meeting with all world leaders, right? Then why were they only talking to him?

He flinched when Jason snorted, twirling the apple absently in his hands. As it was twirled, Marshal noticed a large slice had been cut out. With how he concentrated on twirling the fruit, it was almost reminiscent of a calming exercise... His eyes were quite red at that moment, though he never looked right at Marshal.

'Don't let your head swell, mate. The others are talking to other leaders as we speak,' He said, eyes flashing as he looked up to glare heatedly, 'Your not special enough to warrant special treatment!'

'Okay Jay,' Ashley warned, placing a calming hand on his shoulder, to which he backed down immediately, 'The world leaders will be getting in contact soon enough. We just wanted to have a word with you first.'

Marshal gulped, believing he knew exactly where this was going.

'Word about what?' He asked, hoping playing dumb would help him now.

'About that.' Ashley said, nodding to the cage sitting on a nearby desk. It was empty, the bowl of pellets untouched. His young female Tiny was instead sitting on the desk with her blanket over her shoulders, contentedly munching on a slice of apple as she watched the confrontation. When their eyes met, she smiled, but her eyes were full of dark glee and resentment.

Oh fuck...This isn't going to end well.

The end?