#i live for his vibrant mc energy

[ppomumgranatum]

truth or dare.

also available on Ao3

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!MC

type: one shot, you POV, house-neutral reader

word count: 6.5k

Rating: M

Warnings: use of profanities, mild sexual content, Intense make out sesh 😳, characters are in their 7th year.

Summary: Truths emerged and friendships were tested as you found yourself confronting two years' worth of suppressed feelings towards Sebastian. Drunk.

It was girls night for you, Imelda, Natty, and Poppy at the Three Broomsticks. The warmth of the crackling fire danced across the cosy interior of the Three Broomsticks as the four of you settled around the table just by it. The mood is relaxed, the air thick with the aroma of butterbeer and laughter. Shirts and ties, usually stiff and proper, now hang loosely as you let yourselves unwind, embracing the comfort of casual company.

Behind the bar, Sirona moved with practised efficiency, her long apron swaying as she poured drinks and served food with a smile. The clinking of glasses and the clatter of plates blend with the lively chatter of the patrons, creating a vibrant symphony of sound that fills the room.

She made her way over to your table not long after Imelda signalled for another round of butterbeer. If anyone was keeping count, it might have been your third glass, and the beverage had everyone feeling increasingly lighter.

The Slytherin quidditch captain suggested that they should play a game of truth or dare, knowing the game would make the night more exciting and perhaps deepen their friendship.

The rules were simple: each of you would take turns spinning a bottle to determine who would be asked the truth or dare. The chosen person would then have to decide between revealing a truth or completing a dare, no matter how daring or embarrassing it might be. If anyone refuses to do so, they must chug their entire glass of butterbeer.

Imelda, always the adventurous one, volunteered to go first. With a mischievous twinkle in her eye, she spun the bottle and watched eagerly as it came to a stop, pointing straight at Poppy. Without hesitation, she immediately challenged her Hufflepuff friend, “I dare you to dance in the middle of the Tavern.”

Poppy, ever the good sport, rose to the challenge with a laugh, “Natty, I know you’re the Gryffindor, but let me show you bravery.”

With a confident smile, Poppy gracefully made her way to the centre of the bustling tavern. The eyes of the other patrons followed her every move, curious and amused by the unexpected spectacle unfolding before them. She began to dance, her movements fluid and graceful, drawing cheers and applause from the crowd. With each twirl and leap, she seemed to radiate a contagious energy, filling the room with a sense of joy and excitement.

They cheered her friend on from the table, her dare proving to be a testament to Poppy's drunken adventurous spirit and unwavering bravery.

“I can’t believe she’s actually doing it.” you laughed, feeling disbelieved that drunk Poppy is very funny.

“Go Poppy!” Imelda clapped and cheered at her tiny friend who’s twirling in the middle of strangers.

As Poppy completed her final twirl, she accidentally collided with a taller guy, and his arms instinctively encircled her petite waist to steady her, preventing any stumble.

“Oh! Sorry!” As Poppy apologised, she quickly realised the man she had bumped into was none other than Ominis.

Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, but Ominis just chuckled good-naturedly, “Nice moves.”

“T-thanks.” She knew that Ominis was simply being courteous because obviously, he couldn’t have seen her doing all those moves.

“Oi! Poppy, no!” Imelda shouted from across the room, prompting the two people to turn their heads to the loud girl calling out for her “It’s girls night. Come back!”

Poppy chuckled, shaking her head at Imelda's exuberant interruption. "Looks like I'm being summoned," she remarked, casting a playful glance at Ominis before walking away from his embrace. Ominis smiled understandingly as Poppy made her way back to our table, her steps light with amusement.

Your gaze followed Ominis as he made his way back to his own table, and you found yourself locking eyes with Sebastian, who obviously came with his best friend. You were having so much fun with your girls you didn’t notice they were here. You didn’t even know that Sebastian was planning to visit the Three Broomsticks as well.

His piercing gaze held yours for a moment, a knowing smile tugging at the corners of his lips, and you returned his smile. It felt as if your gut was twisted and turned, in the most enchanting way possible because, Merlin, that man is beautiful as hell.

Natty nudged you to get your attention back and smiled kind of teasingly but you didn’t really bother.

The night went on and the game kept on going. The dares became increasingly daring, you found yourselves caught up in the exhilarating energy of the game, revelling in the thrill of pushing each other outside of our comfort zones.

Natty spun the bottle with a flick of her wrist, the anticipation building as it whirled around before coming to a stop and finally it was finally your turn to take up on the challenge.

A playful smirk danced across Natty's lips as she posed the inevitable question, "Truth or dare?"

“Truth.” You said.

Imelda scoffed and raised her eyebrows in mock surprise at your choice, “I thought the girl who fought goblins and dark wizards to save Hogwarts would be more daring.”

Imelda's playful taunt elicited a round of chuckles from the rest of the group, but you remained unfazed, a smirk playing at the corners of your lips. You knew that sometimes the most revealing truths could be just as daring as any physical challenge.

“Don’t worry, I have a good question for this one.” Natty assured, "What's the deal with you and Sebastian?"

Your heart skipped a beat at the unexpected question, but you couldn't help but smile at Natty's boldness. The other girls quickly leaned in eagerly, clearly intrigued by the topic.

You took a moment to gather your thoughts, feeling a rush of emotions swirling within you. Sebastian had been a constant presence in your life ever since you started your Hogwarts day, his friendship was a source of comfort and strength through both joyous and challenging times. But there’s all to it– friends.

It was not the first time someone threw that question at you. You understood that the close bond you shared with Sebastian might inadvertently lead others to misconstrue your relationship. It wasn't uncommon for people to mistake deep friendships for something more romantic, especially when the connection was as strong as yours and Sebastian's. While you cherished his companionship more than words could express, what you two have was purely platonic.

At least that’s what you like to convince yourself.

Although you’d be lying if you never wondered what it feels like to run your fingers through his brown hair, or how comfortable it would be to rest your head on his chest, or.. how soft his lips might feel against yours. You couldn't deny the allure of such fantasies, the temptation to explore the unknown and experience the intimacy that might lie beyond the boundaries of friendship. But as quickly as the thought had surfaced, you pushed it aside, unwilling to entertain notions that could potentially complicate your relationship with Sebastian.

So in conclusion, do you like Sebastian? Yes.

Will you admit it, even to yourself? No.

But still, you were determined to cherish the friendship you shared with him for all that it was– a source of comfort, support, and hearty companionship. This wasn’t something you’d be willing to risk losing.

“I don’t know how many times I have to tell you guys, but there’s nothing going on between us.” you lifted your mug to have a sip of your butterbeer as you replied.

“And I don’t know how many times I have to tell you– you’re clearly lying.”

You chuckled at Natty's persistent teasing, her playful banter a familiar soundtrack to your conversations about Sebastian. Despite your repeated assurances, your friends seemed determined to challenge the authenticity of your claims.

With a good-natured shrug, you replied, "Believe what you want, guys, but I assure you, there's nothing romantic."

“Really?” Imelda chimed in, “You’re saying, all of those late night ‘studies’ you often share, those ‘adventures’– for two years, neither of you ever had any momentary lapse?” She pressed on as she made some air quote gestures with her fingers.

Sure, there were stolen glances, and perhaps touches. Not anything raunchy, but like when Sebastian wordlessly reached out and took your hand in his during your walk home from Hogsmeade on a chilly night to keep you comfortable.

Or other moments when Sebastian would act sweet and protective towards you, but you figure it’s all a natural thing. Like how he would come between you and the oncoming attack, shielding you from harm with his own body during your battles with dark wizards. It was merely a fleeting instance of a friend's deep-seated desire to ensure the safety of their companion, just like how you took the Cruciatus curse for him in the scriptorium.

But then again, nothing ever goes beyond any of that. No confessions nor pursuits of something romantic were ever explicitly made. Those moments always dissolved into other lingering echoes of unspoken words.

“Hey, Natty asked the question and I answered.” you stayed persistent with your statement “There is truly nothing.”

“Don’t you wish there was something, though?” Poppy innocently remarked.

Well, isn’t Poppy Sweeting just fucking delightful when she’s drunk, asking all the right fucking questions.

You hesitated, eyes shifted around your friends who were staring at you, anticipating the answer. You couldn't shake the unsettling feeling in the pit of your stomach. They knew you well enough to sense what you were possibly feeling, but as friends who are supposed to be annoying to each other, they just want to hear it coming out of your mouth. The confession– the admittance of your long profound feeling towards the Slytherin boy whose longest relationship was with detention.

Taking a deep breath, you met their gaze with a forced smile, “No, Poppy. Sebastian and I have always been close, but–” You replied as you were trying to choose your next words carefully. "I know you guys want this to be something so bad but I value our friendship too much to risk anything.”

It was a half-truth, a carefully crafted response designed to conceal the true depth of your feelings. The other three shot you a look of disappointment because yet again another lie came out of your mouth.

"Anyway, why is it always about me and Sebastian?" Your frustration bubbled to the surface as you interjected, unable to bear the spotlight focused solely on your relationship with Sebastian. "What about Poppy and Ominis? Aren't they just as obvious as whatever you think is going on with me?”

With a determined edge to your voice, you redirected the conversation, shining a light on the dynamics between Poppy and Ominis. After all, they too shared a close bond that was evident to anyone paying attention. Poppy's cheeks flushed slightly as the attention turned to her.

“Hey, don’t try to change the subject, alright?” she was refusing to have their own relationship coming under the same scrutiny.

There was a momentary silence as Imelda and Natty exchanged glances, like a sudden moment of realisation dawning upon them that they also don’t know much about what’s going on with Poppy.

“So..” Natty carefully started, “Have you guys kissed yet?”

“Stop it.” Poppy insisted.

Imelda chimed in, her tone light but her question holding a curious edge. "You know what I always ponder about?" she mused, her eyes flicking between her friends. "If he's blind, do you reckon he'd still know where.. everything is?" Her hand swept in a casual arc, encompassing Poppy's figure in a playful gesture.

“Imelda Reyes!” Poppy’s eyes widened in disbelief at her friend's vulgar question. You and Natty could only let out a satisfied laugh at the remark. Imelda shrugged nonchalantly, a mischievous grin playing on her lips as she revelled in the reaction she had elicited. It was moments like these that reminded you all of the genuine bond you shared, forged through laughter, support, and the occasional inappropriate joke.

The banter continued unabated, with Imelda persistently needling the annoyed Poppy, her playful jabs met with a mixture of exasperation and reluctant amusement. Meanwhile, Natty, ever the peacemaker, interjected with lighthearted comments and gentle nudges to steer the conversation away from the edge of tension.

As you watched the amusing interactions among your friends, you realised that your glass was running empty. So you took a final chug at the remaining butterbeer and excused yourself from the lively conversation. You made your way to the bar, eager to replenish your beverage.

At the bar, you signalled Sirona for another round, patiently waiting as she bustled about, attending to the needs of other patrons. Leaning casually against the polished wood, you watched as she deftly mixed drinks and served customers.

In the midst of your wait, a man sidled up beside you. You took a glance at him and realised it was a Ravenclaw student, Andrew Larson. A charming grin played on his lips and you returned his smile. He raised his hand to catch Sirona's attention, signalling his order with a casual wave. With a quick nod and a warm smile, she acknowledged him before returning to her tasks. As Andrew turned back to you, his gaze lingering a moment longer.

“Hi." he greeted, "Haven't had the pleasure of seeing you around here lately.”

You returned his greeting with a warm smile. “Well, it’s our final year, with the N.E.W.T coming up–” She sighed, “You’re a Ravenclaw, you know the rest.” As a resident of the house that embraces learning, she figured he would be able to relate the most.

Andrew's charming grin widened at your response, his eyes twinkling with curiosity. "Well, I'm glad you’re here now." he said, his voice smooth and easygoing. "This place is always more enjoyable with good company."

Did he just.. flirt with you?

The hottie of Ravenclaw– the tall, broad shoulder, blonde, Andrew Larson was flirting with you? It was flattering, surely, but your heart wasn’t exactly there.

“Can I get you–” As he was about to offer you a drink, Sirona came with your fully filled mug of butterbeer. Andrew halted his sentence, a bit embarrassed, but made quite the quick comeback “something else from the bar? Snack, maybe? Or more drinks?”

You couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt as you noticed Andrew's flustered reaction to the unexpected arrival of your butterbeer. It was clear that he had been planning to offer to buy you a drink, only to be thwarted by Sirona's timely arrival.

"Actually, I think I'm all set for now," you replied with a grateful smile, gesturing to the mug of butterbeer in front of you. "But thank you for the offer."

“Are you sure?” He persisted.

“Yes, Andrew.” You gave him your warmest and sincere smile.

Andrew nodded understandingly, a faint blush still lingering on his cheeks as he recovered quickly from the momentary embarrassment. "Well, if you change your mind–”

“I don’t think she will, mate.” Before Andrew could finish his sentence, Sebastian's voice cut through the air, his presence suddenly dominating the scene. He leaned casually against the bar, his arm resting just behind your back. It almost felt like he was about to embrace you, his proximity drawing you in.

With Sebastian's taller frame towering over you, it felt like your face was almost nestled somewhere around the crook of his neck. Amidst the chatter of the tavern and the scent of butterbeer, you couldn't help but catch a whiff of his cologne—a captivating blend of fresh, woody, and spicy notes that seemed to envelop you in its seductive aura.

“Excuse me?” The sweet and soft look on Andrew’s face was replaced by a subtle hint of defensiveness.

“She doesn’t want anything from you, so.. run along, Larson.”

Caught between the two men, you felt a surge of unease wash over you, unsure of how to diffuse the tension that hung thick in the air. Andrew didn’t even bother to argue with Sebastian, he just excused himself and the two of you were left alone.

Your hand instinctively reached out to smack Sebastian's chest, the action fueled by a mixture of frustration and confusion. "What the fuck was that?" you demanded, your voice low but laced with an undercurrent of anger.

Sebastian flinched slightly at the unexpected gesture, his expression shifting from defensiveness to contrition. "I was just trying to protect you from that undoubtedly sleazy guy who's trying to worm his way into your clothes. You're welcome."

"What?" you exclaimed, caught off guard by Sebastian's blunt statement.

"It's Andrew Larson," Sebastian clarified.

Your face twisted into a puzzled expression as Sebastian stated the obvious, and you replied sarcastically, "Oh, pardon me, I thought it was Ominis."

Sebastian rolled his eyes in exasperation. "You know how he is."

Sure, whispers were circulating about Andrew, portraying him as a womaniser whose primary goal was to seduce as many girls as he could. But you weren't some naive ingénue who could easily be swayed by sweet words and charm. Despite feeling flattered by Andrew's attention earlier, you were offended by the implication from Sebastian, of all people, that you were incapable of protecting yourself. After all the battles you've faced and triumphed over, you knew you were more than capable of handling any advances or situations that came your way.

You couldn't help but roll your eyes in response, a mixture of annoyance and amusement bubbling within you. It was typical of Sebastian to jump to conclusions and assume the worst about others, especially when it came to your interactions with guys.

"Yeah, I know," you replied, your tone tinged with sarcasm. "Because Andrew is clearly the biggest threat to my virtue in this entire tavern."

“Merlin, did your butterbeer contain five percent alcohol and ninety-five percent sarcasm?” Sebastian let out an exasperated sigh as his frustration was evident in the way he pinched the bridge of his nose. "I'm just looking out for you, okay?" he muttered, his voice softer now, almost pleading.

You softened slightly at his words, "I’m sorry," you said while offering him a small smile of reassurance. "But, maybe I wanted to be swayed and flirted with by some cute guy tonight.” Those last statements came out a bit soft but Sebastian could still hear it.

Sebastian chuckled softly at your admission, his eyes softening with amusement as he took in your slightly flushed cheeks and the playful glint in your eyes. "Wow, you're really drunk, aren't you?" he teased gently, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

You grinned sheepishly in response, nodding slightly. "A little bit, yeah," you admitted, feeling a surge of warmth spreading through you at his lighthearted response.

You felt a shiver run down your spine as you caught Sebastian's intense gaze locked onto yours. There was something magnetic about the way his eyes bore into yours, drawing you in with an almost hypnotic allure.

His appearance only added to the intensity of the moment. His hair was tousled in a way that made him look effortlessly handsome, his shirt untucked and his tie slightly loosened, giving him a casual yet undeniably appealing air. The sleeves of his shirt were rolled up, revealing the veins in his arms, and you couldn't help but feel a flutter of attraction deep in your chest.

Merlin's sake, he looked so hot.

For a moment, you found yourself momentarily lost in the depths of his gaze, captivated by the raw energy that seemed to radiate from him. It was as if the world around you faded away, leaving only the two of you locked in a silent exchange that spoke volumes without a single word being uttered.

"So, you girls having fun?" Sebastian asked with a casual tonel as he attempted to steer the conversation back to lighter topics.

You nodded, grateful for the change in subject. "Uh, yeah, we're just playing truth or dare," you replied, gesturing towards the table where your friends were gathered.

Sebastian's eyebrows lifted in surprise. "Oh, is that why Poppy randomly started dancing then?" he asked, a hint of amusement colouring his voice.

“Yeah, something like that," You chuckled. “Anyway I think I should go back before Imelda starts screaming at me.”

Sebastian nodded in understanding, a small smile playing on his lips. "Yeah, probably a good idea," he agreed. "I'll see you around?"

You returned his smile with a nod, feeling a sense of warmth and gratitude wash over you. "Definitely." you replied with genuine affection.

It sounded like an assurance– like a promise that you will always be around.

As you rejoined the lively group at the table, the warmth of Sebastian's presence lingered in the back of your mind. Immediately, you were greeted by a chorus of playful cheers and teasing remarks from your friends. Imelda, in particular, couldn't resist the opportunity to poke fun at your brief absence, teasing and winking suggestively in Sebastian’s direction.

You knew this would just add more fuel to the fire of assumptions your friends are already burning. Your cheeks flushed at the teasing, but you couldn't help but laugh along with them. Throughout the night, amidst the laughter and banter, you couldn't help but steal glances at Sebastian, who was seated across the room. His presence seemed to draw you in like a magnet, and no matter how hard you tried to focus on the conversation at hand, your gaze would inevitably wander back to him.

It’s getting late, and your group is getting aggressively more drunk. Everyone was so out of place, Imelda, with her usual flair for the dramatic, had climbed onto a nearby chair, belting out a tune that she had seemingly composed on the spot. Her voice echoed through the tavern, a mix of off-key notes and drunken enthusiasm that drew both cheers and laughter from the patrons.

Natty, meanwhile, had succumbed to the effects of the alcohol, her head resting on the table as she dozed off into a peaceful slumber. You couldn't help but smile at the sight of your friend, her normally lively demeanour replaced by the serene expression of someone lost in dreams.

And Poppy– oh dear, sweet, Poppy, was sitting on Ominis’ lap with her tongue down his throat. you caught Sebastian's eye, and you couldn't help but give him a sympathetic look. But to your surprise, he simply shrugged, a faint smile playing on his lips. It seemed that even he couldn't resist feeling a twinge of satisfaction at the sight of his best friend finding some unexpected romance amidst the chaos of the night.

With a chuckle, you shook your head in amusement, realising that despite the drunken antics and the questionable decisions, nights like these were what memories were made of.

Despite your best efforts to keep up, you found yourself feeling increasingly out of sync with the chaotic energy of the group. The alcohol seemed to weigh heavily on your senses, dulling your reactions and leaving you feeling disconnected from the revelry around you.

You noticed Sirona, the bartender, casting concerned glances in your direction. Her furrowed brow and subtle gestures of worry did not go unnoticed amidst the chaos of the tavern.

Finally, she approached your table, her expression a mix of concern and gentle determination. "I hate to interrupt the fun, but perhaps it's time for you all to call it a night." she said softly, her voice carrying a note of genuine care.

With a sigh of resignation, you understood that it was up to you to take charge and ensure your friends made it home safely. Despite Poppy's protests, you gently coaxed her away from Ominis' embrace, linking arms with her as you led the group out of the tavern.

As you walked, Poppy violently let go of your arm and ran to stroll by Ominis’ side, their laughter and whispered conversations filling the night air. Imelda and Natty stumbled along behind them, their steps unsteady but their spirits high as they chatted and laughed amongst themselves.

Bringing up the rear, you found yourself walking alongside Sebastian, the two of you trailing behind the rest of the group. You were stumbling a little bit so you reached out instinctively to steady yourself, grasping onto Sebastian's arm for support. Your fingers wrapped around his muscled and strong biceps, finding purchase in the solidity of his frame.

"Whoa, easy there," he chuckled, his voice warm and amused as he shifted slightly to support your weight. "Looks like someone's had a bit too much to drink."

You couldn't help but laugh at his teasing, the sound echoing through the quiet streets of Hogsmeade. "Guilty as charged." you admitted, leaning into his solid presence as you regained your balance.

You couldn't help but blush at the unexpected closeness, the warmth of his touch sending more heat to your face. You still have your arms tightly secured around him as you navigate the streets of Hogsmeade together. As you and Sebastian walked, your pace noticeably slower than the others, you watched as your friends gradually disappeared ahead of you. Imelda's infectious laughter echoed down the street, followed by the soft murmur of some other conversations.

“Hey, let’s play truth or dare.” you proposed, a mischievous twinkle in your eye as you glanced at Sebastian.

Sebastian chuckled, a smirk playing on his lips. "Oh, I don't know if I'm ready to share all of my secrets." he teased.

You chuckled at his remark, the alcohol still coursing through your veins lending a sense of boldness to your suggestion. "Come on, it'll be fun."

Sebastian's lips curled into a smirk, his gaze lingering on yours for a moment longer than necessary. "Alright, you go first. Truth or dare?”

You paused for a moment, considering your options before finally replying, "Dare."

A mischievous grin spread across Sebastian’s face as he formulated a challenge. "I dare you to.. serenade the next person we pass on this street.”

You scoffed at the challenge, deeming it far too easy to pass up. As an older gentleman, dressed impeccably in a top hat and proper suit, approached, you seized the opportunity. Stepping boldly in front of him, you launched into a spontaneous serenade, belting out a random song from the depths of your imagination.

The man's reaction was one of sheer bewilderment, his eyes widening in disbelief as he continued walking, shooting you a perplexed glance over his shoulder. But you were undeterred by his reaction, pouring your heart and soul into the impromptu performance.

Sebastian couldn't contain his laughter, doubling over with amusement as he watched the scene unfold. With a grin, he pulled you away from the bemused gentleman before things got too out of hand and you got reported for harassment. "Alright, you lunatic," he chuckled, shaking his head in disbelief. "That was not too shabby."

You grinned triumphantly as you kept on walking, feeling a rush of exhilaration at having completed the dare. "Hey, I aim to please." you replied, your voice filled with satisfaction.

As the two of you continued down the street, still chuckling at the absurdity of the situation.

"Okay, your turn." you said to Sebastian.

"Truth." Sebastian replied, his expression curious yet composed.

You hummed thoughtfully, considering your question carefully before finally deciding on one that would test the waters. "Do you think I'm pretty?" you asked, your voice tinged with playfulness.

Sebastian's eyebrows shot up in surprise, caught off guard by the unexpected question. He paused for a moment, his gaze searching yours before a small smile tugged at the corners of his lips. "Of course," he replied sincerely, his voice soft yet earnest. "I think you’re beautiful."

You hummed in amusement and couldn't suppress a giggle. "I think you're beautiful, too, Sebastian Sallow." you admitted, feeling a rush of warmth at the confession. As you rested your head on his arm, a comfortable silence settled between you.

He chuckled at the sight of your sly face leaning on his arm and eyes could barely manage to stay open “You’re so drunk.”

“I told you I wanted to be swayed by a cute guy tonight.” you mumbled, your words slurred slightly from the effects of the alcohol.

"I think you've had enough swaying for one night," he teased, his voice warm and affectionate.

You let out a soft giggle in response, the alcohol making everything feel hazy and surreal. "Maybe," you conceded with a playful grin. "But it's your turn. Quick.”

“Fine. Dare me.”

“Alright,” you replied. This time, you took your time considering what dare to give him. You want to make sure that you’re optimising this opportunity. You didn’t know what had gotten into your head aside from the obvious alcohol, but spurred on by a sudden surge of courage, you somehow managed to say, “I dare you to kiss me.”

Sebastian laughed at your request, and thought you were kidding, but it quickly died down and stopped at his feet when he saw your face looking serious “Wait, you’re serious?”

You held his gaze steadily, “Yes.” Despite the sudden rush of nerves coursing through your veins, you stood your ground, determined to see this dare through. “Kiss me.”

His expression shifted from amusement to something more contemplative, like his eyes were searching yours for any hint of hesitation. But your gaze was unwavering as if urging him to finally close the distance you’ve been dreaming to perish.

Sebastian took a step closer and lifted your chin with his finger to get a better view of your lips. As he leaned in closer, you closed your eyes in anticipation of your first kiss with Sebastian, feeling the warmth of his breath against your skin. When his lips finally met yours, there was a surge of energy coursing through your entire body, sending shivers down your spine.

It was a soft and tender kiss, nothing deep, but it filled with emotion that had been kept away for two years. It was truly a moment that took your breath away. Surrounded by the quiet beauty of the night, you felt a connection between you and Sebastian that transcended words. It was as if the universe had aligned just for this moment, bringing the two of you together in perfect harmony.

He pulled away, and your gazes locked. You could tell his breathing was shallow from the nerves. The look on his eyes was something you’ve never seen before like a mixture of desire, longing, and a hint of vulnerability. You didn’t want him to stop. You wanted him to devour you– to be lost in you with passion.

In that moment, you felt a surge of boldness coursing through you, fueled by the electric connection between you and Sebastian. Without hesitation, you reached out, tangling your fingers in his hair as you pulled him closer, your lips crashing together in a fierce and hungry kiss. It was like a wildfire consuming you both, igniting a passion that burned hotter with each passing moment.

Sebastian wrapped his arm around you and pulled you closer until your bodies were pressed tightly together. A soft moan escaped your lips as you felt the heat of his touch. It was as if every nerve in your body was alight with lust, and you couldn't help but respond to the intensity of the moment.

As if spurred on by the sound of your moan, Sebastian deepened the kiss, his lips moving with a hunger that matched your own. You felt his crave coursing through him, a raw and primal energy that left you breathless and wanting more.

Without hesitation, you parted your lips, inviting him to explore the depths of your mouth with his tongue. Sebastian tilted his head so he could gain better access. It was a dance of passion that's been kept away for two years and each movement sending waves of pleasure coursing through you.

It was truly magical, and sensual even. You didn’t care about the fact that the two of you were standing in the middle of the road or if someone passed by and stared, because in that moment, it truly felt like you finally owned each other. It made you think of all the sinful things you wanted him to do to you and It was as if a silent understanding passed between you, a shared desire that fueled the intensity of the kiss. Without a word, Sebastian guided you backwards until your back met the sturdy trunk of a tree by the roadside.

As his lips trailed along your jaw, ear, and down to your neck, you couldn't help but lose yourself in the sensation of his touch. Every brush of his lips against your skin sent heat to your loin. When his hand found its way to your breast, cupping and squeezing it with a firm yet gentle touch, you couldn't contain the moan that escaped your lips. Your body truly felt as if it was on fire, craving his touch with an intensity that left you breathless.

Instinctively, you lifted your leg to his side, drawing him closer and inviting him to explore further. The consuming lusts between you was fucking evident.

As Sebastian's hand explored your chest, eliciting waves of pleasure with each touch, you couldn't help but release another soft moan of pleasure “Oh.. Sebastian..”

At the call of his name, it was as if a sudden wake-up call had jolted Sebastian out of the passionate haze. He pulled away abruptly, his gaze locking with yours, his eyes filled with a mix of realisation and apprehension. In that moment, it was as if the weight of what had just transpired between you both crashed down on him like a ton of bricks.

All you could think about was the sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach, the realisation dawning on you that your friendship with Sebastian was officially ruined. The two of you were breathless and exhilarated. Your lips swollen and tingling with the remnants of his touch.

He took a couple of steps back away from you.

Fuck, fuck, fuck, you screamed in your head. He remained silent, his eyes locked on yours, leaving you to wonder what the fuck was going on? Was he regretting it? The uncertainty gnawed at you, and you couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled over you as you tried to decipher the expression on his face. It was like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces, and you couldn't help but feel a sense of dread creeping in.

“Sebastian..” you whispered.

“I’m sorry.” He finally said as he looked away, “I didn’t mean to..”

“It’s okay..” You replied.

Your words echoed in the silence that followed, and you felt a pang of disappointment wash over you. It was as if reality had come crashing down, shattering the illusion of the moment you had shared together. But then, unable to resist the urge to seek reassurance, you blurted out the question that had been lingering in your mind. "Do you like me?"

Sebastian's expression softened as he looked back at you, his eyes searching yours with a depth that sent a flutter through your chest. “Of course, I do.” He replied rather softly.

“Like a friend?”

A lump formed in Sebastian’s throat, making it hard for him to swallow as nervousness crept over him. He took a deep breath, steeling himself for the conversation they were about to have. “Well, friends don’t do the things that we just did, do they?”

“Not really.” You replied. The weight of his words sobering you up almost instantly. It was as if a veil had been lifted, revealing the stark reality of the situation between you.

The silence that followed was heavy with unspoken emotions, each of you grappling with the implications of what had just transpired. You took a deep breath and with a shaky hand, you reached up to straighten your messy shirt and ran your fingers through your dishevelled hair, trying to regain some semblance of composure.

"Do you want it to be more than just a friend?" he finally managed to say.

You felt your heart skip a beat at his question, the weight of his words hanging heavy in the air. You looked into his eyes, seeing the vulnerability reflected in them, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. “Do you want it to be?”

“I asked you first.” He quickly and assertively interjected, “Do you want it to be something more?”

"Yes," you replied softly, your voice barely audible over the sound of your pounding heart. "Yes, I do."

"Then, how come you never said anything?" he asked, his tone tinged with a mixture of frustration and longing.

“How come you never said anything?”

He felt a pang of guilt at his words, realising that he had been holding back his true feelings for far too long. "How was I supposed to know?" he shot back, your voice tinged with defensiveness.

"Oh, because we've only been hanging out together every day for two years, we shared countless life and death moments, was that not enough?" you added sarcastically, the weight of your unspoken emotions finally surfacing. “Am I.. not enough?”

Sebastian's expression softened at your words, a look of understanding crossing his features. He took a step closer. "You are more than enough," he said softly and his voice was filled with sincerity. "You are everything to me."

“Everyone wonders why we aren’t together,” you echoed softly. “Well, little did they know I also wondered the same thing.” You looked up at Sebastian, meeting his gaze with a mixture of hope and uncertainty. And as you stood there, lost in each other's eyes, you could find everything you’ve ever wanted.

He took another step forward, “I want you.” and another, until he could reach out to caress your cheek, “I’ve always wanted you ever since you kicked my ass in Hecat’s class.”

You couldn't help but laugh at his response, a mixture of relief and joy bubbling up inside you. It was like a weight had been lifted off your shoulders, and suddenly, everything felt right in the world. His fingers tracing the curve of your jaw with a tenderness that made your heart flutter. In that moment, all the doubts and fears that had plagued you seemed to fade away.

“I want to love you.. to feel you..” He continued, “Way more than what we just did.” He smiled, but you could tell he was a little bit nervous.

"Well, you made me wait two years," you teased gently, a playful glint in your eye. “Don’t make me wait anymore.”

Sebastian's smile widened at your response, a sense of relief washing over him as he realised that you felt the same way. In that moment, you knew that you were both ready to take the next step in your relationship, to explore the depths of your love together with open hearts and open minds.

And as you leaned in to capture his lips in a tender kiss, you couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement for the journey that lay ahead. With Sebastianfinally by your side, you know everything is going to be great.

[sparklingbluerose]

TWST x Fatui Harbinger! Reader

You are a Fatui Harbinger, one of the most well known and second to none. Beyond realization, you tell a secret about your delusion that everyone did not realize was such a big deal until now.

A/N: THIS IS SUCH A BRAINROT OMG

☆

TW: Angst, Fluff, Comfort

GN! (Y/N) 《Other Genders Will Be Made》

☆

Riddle Roseheart

Let me be honest on this, the moment Riddle was interested in you was when it all went downhill.

When you fought the overblots together, mainly Leona he had always been drawn to the delusion hanging right on your hip. It...mesmerized him.

He always found it cool how you use it on the battlefield, knocking sense into any opponent who went against you. Man, he sure was glad he doesn't remember anything about his overblot at all. It would give him PTSD.

But then he start to notice you start getting more slower in movement and tired. Did you not rest enough? Why isn't your delusion being as vibrant?

Yet when he simply asks, all you replied with had shaken him to his very core. You'll...die?

Regrettably, you told him everything about your delusion and how much you tried to make him stop panicking so much but he just couldn't.

"Please, MC...please. Stop using that delusion; it's draining your life energy. We'll think of other ways to make you fight i promise." He was so hurt about it.

But there was nothing to be done. As long as you kept being stubborn and kept using it your life would be on thin ice.

More unless you DO listen to him he'll be so relieved. This man is whipped for you, having you so bluntly say you'll die to him is literally dumping salt and alcohol on a wound.

Of course, you'd still need to use it when you go back to your world. But this dude would not stop pestering you.

He won't let you take your life. To hell with it, no matter what happens you will live. He swears on it.

"Laws of The Queen of Hearts...Rule #851: "Always take care of MC and bring them tarts everyday."

Leona Kingscholar

Will not take any of the bullshit. You're strong, you beat all the overblots with barely any help and even fought against a literal GOD in your world!

What makes you think you can't fight against this issue? He'd be annoyed at your reasoning, you will not die.

Not unless he's around, he'll always order Ruggie or Jack to check on you to make sure you aren't using that filthy delusion. It's taking away your life and he hates it.

And you allowing it to happen is basically suicide. You helped everyone with their problems, now they'll help you. That's fair right? He finally has someone who sees his worth, who enjoys being around him so much.

Leaving him would tear him apart. Not unless you'd promise you won't use it he'll stop being so ignorant.

Everyone was seriously surprised to notice he hasn't even been sleeping as much as he used to; is this the end of the world!? Goodness, what have you done?

Nap with him everyday, always sit beside him when you have lunch. That'll make him more reassured.

If he had to choose between his life and yours, funny enough, he'll choose you without a doubt. This arrogant lion will be soft for you, so take responsibility.

"Stop resisting, MC. You're being dumb if you actually think any one of us would let you die. You'll be safe here."

It haunted you for days when he said your actual name. Seems he's serious about it.

Azul Ashengrotto

Similar to Riddle, he'll be really weary and slightly panic over the news. Of course, you had this conversation before but he didn't think it would happen so soon.

"I am a harbinger. Death can come to me at any given moment so i must be willing." Is what you said.

The way his soul left his body when you said that so calm and bluntly; can't you be more considerate about his poor octo feelings!?

This man will do everythin to keep you from using that dreadful vision. Give you a magic pen, have you use your weapon, quit your job, etc.

At some point, once Jade notices your vision becoming duller he'll probably turn pale as hell.

Would act very calm when confronting you, but internally this man is screaming so hard. Why...? Why didn't you trust him to tell him this before?

Once he feels miserable and out of options, he'll ask you one more time. To understand your decision.

"MC, be honest. Do you really want this..?" It comes off sincere unliks any other time he spoke to you.

If you say no, he'll finally smile and give you a contract. One he made himself. Don't worry, it'll last long. He'll take away your delusion, and in return, stay with him. Please.

Don't leave him all alone. Things were bound to be this way, but it doesn't have to end like this.

If you say yes, well, it doesn't matter. He'll still have you sign the contract either way. You will be free. And together, maybe things can take it's turn for the best too.

Kalim Al-Asim

He'll cry. Like...pretty loud, it had to really take both Jamil and some othed Scarabia students to calm him down.

Like dude, why would you ever want to die? He was scared and broken. It would be heartbreaking to see tears begin to form on his eyes so slowly...

He sobs while hugging your fatui coat so tight you'd have to take it off so he would suddenly rip it apart from his grip.

Jamil would be in a harsh decision. He has to pry Kalim off you and apologize for almost staining your outfit. Of course, it was nothing as you were worried for him.

"But– But it's not fair! We just got to know each other and become best friends, why does this have to be!? Please, don't tell me this is real MC!"

His crying wasn't helping, everyone passing by had to check the commotion too. It would make you cry.

This man would ask everyone he knew no matter the reputation because that's how legit his love for you is. Of course, it was you. So no one refused.

You were a fatui harbinger. You killed others and did so many guilt-eating commissions.

But was it said you have to be a good person just to receive love and care? Happiness and adoration? No. He will make parties for you every week, spoil you with presents, give you cuddles, everything.

He won't leave you alone, not until you never give a single look at that delusion on your waist will he forgive you.

You didn't come to NRC just to make everyone happy, give them unforgettable memories then breal their hearts. No matter what, he promises he won't let you pass.

Vil Schoenheit

Honey, please give him a warning. Don't give him a heart attack nor tears and dried makeup.

This man would most likely look at you with an angry face, telling you not to say such a scary joke until you say it's real. Only then would he snap out of it.

His nervous chuckles and quick responses were enough to tear you apart. You didn't want it but it had to happen.

"MC...please. No, it's not real. Tell me it's a joke." He will much likely be the one mostly to avoid the truth. He distracts himself with other students and makeup so that he can manage to cope through.

But it's you, after all. How long can he even manage to stay put when he knows about your fate?

"..No. I can't let you pass away like this. I will not." His looks could deceive. No matter how much he convinces others he's alright, he'll bound to break again soon.

Rook and Epel had to calm him down before he could make any rash decisions. And so, he'll take a breath and think.

What could he do in a time like this? Of course. Anything to save you from the unbearable pain you seek to live through. He'll look for any spell book, any potion that could stop you from your terrible pain. And it will work.

Then somewhat he'll create one. To strengthen your life span, or to even give you a chance to live...

If anyone or anything dare disrupt the peace he was blessed for with you, he will destroy it.

He will ask everyone and EVERYONE he knows. It doesn't matter who, as long as they can help they will.

He noticed your delusion was beginning to suck your life span by the end of the time. For Seven's Sake, he can't let go of such a precious jewel like you.

Idia Shroud

He thought your delusion was really poggers and wanted to know how it worked. Lol, didn't turn out so well as he thought it would huh...

Fear begins to creep into him, horror and flashbacks returning to his mind about Ortho.

...He shakes his head. No, he can't do the same to you. You are a person, someone too special to be botheted by any other mechanism or robot.

Truth to be told, this guy would be the calmest out of them all believe it or not. He knows you'll die, yes. But he's already felt the pain. It'll be fine to feel it again right? Right..?

He's conflicted of what to do or even to know what to do on such a complicated case. What does the delusion do?

And the slightest panic urges in his body when he asks to see it, finding it barely shining and is just a simple jewelry you can find anywhere in Twisted Wonderland.

Please...help him. Now he can't hold back, he will sob in his room when you aren't there. He will breakdown.

You may say it's not as bad as the others. True, it isn't based on built relationships with you. But if it's based off of his own experience...he will and can feel the most pain.

Slightly in reluctance, he will do all he can to reverse your fate and turn back everything how it should be.

Fellow harbinger or not, you deserve a better life too. And so, he'll attempt to give that life to you no matter how hard.

Malleus Draconia

God forbid him even KNOW about your situation. If he hears about it, no joke, all hell will break loose.

First meeting with you, of course what tied him to you was your strong will and bravery. Had you always been this...nice? Admirable? He doesn't know how to say.

When he saw you beat up some Diasomnia students in less than a single minute he was really impressed.

And perhaps, stirred a certain something in his heart. He admired the sparks, all the magic when you gracefully defeated your opponents. And so swiftly too!

He loved it. You built up the wonderful feelings of warmth in his chest so delicately...

...Only to crush it beyond redemption of your horrendous words and reckless actions.

Why? Was is not ENOUGH for you? Simply torturing his heart with your simple words of retreating, he couldn't believe it. He just stares at you so...wounded.

He never felt this way before. He was powerful, anyone feared him and yet here he was, sad over you.

No, no. He can do this. His child of man was strong and can endure anything. He'll definitely defy the laws of time, break every rule of reality and destiny just for you. He will not accept this and will tell you to keep your delusion.

Somewhere you'll never ever have to see it again. Just as long as you're there, he'll cuddle you in his arms and make sure you're safe and sound with him.

(I wrote this in one shot without even taking a break and it's now 12:25AM, my fingers hurt. Imma sleep bye lol–)

[coeluvr]

all right, then! what do the buns look like? are they hybrids, or full-on animals?? what is Asha to bunny!Fadiya???

My bunny au is literally full on animal bunnies because if they're hybrids I think it would be weird with the whole adoption thing. So pets!

They would look pretty similar to how they look now because regular colors are boring.

Fadiya

She would have soft, fluffy fur that's a vibrant shade of ruby red and amber eyes. Her ears would be long and perky, twitching with curiosity as she explores her surroundings.

She would be a lively and talkative bunny, hopping around with energy and exuding a sense of joy. I think she'd be quite protective of MC, I imagined MC and Vincent adopting a bunny!Fadiya only for her to hate him and had a laugh.

I think in this AU our Asha would be a toy frog that Fadiya had even before getting adopted.

Helios

He would have snowy white fur and pale blue eyes that sparkle with warmth.

At the beginning, Helios might maintain a slight distance, however, as time goes on and trust is built, he would gradually warm up to MC, allowing his friendly and affectionate side to shine through. He would always want to be close to MC as well.

Hunter

They would have sleek black fur, deep blue eyes, and their bunny ears would stand tall and curious.

They would eagerly participate in games, eagerly seeking out toys and treats, and engaging in playful interactions. Their energy runs out pretty fast so they need lots of naps during the day.

They wouldn't really be clingy, instead they'd want to spend some time alone doing whatever bunnies do.

Soarine

Soarine would have soft and fluffy fur in a beautiful shade of light green with mint eyes that exude mystery and intrigue.

She would hop and bound with agile grace, her movements exuding a sense of energy and liveliness. She would be curious, poking her nose into everything and keeping you entertained with her antics.

If MC thinks they picked her then they're wrong, she definitely picked them the moment they stepped into the adoption center.

Vincent

He would have a soft and velvety fur coat in a rich shade of brown, mimicking the wavy texture of his hair. With deep green eyes that hold a hint of wariness, Vincent would exhibit a cautious yet observant gaze.

He would maintain a certain distance initially, keeping to himself and carefully assessing his surroundings and wondering why MC adopted him out of all the other more friendly bunnies. Once he warms up to MC, he would become glued to them. His presence would provide a sense of comfort, knowing that he is always there by their side.

[astroa3h]

past life reading: jacob elordi ✨

For a past life reading I first look toward a clients South Node placement. Jacob has his South Node in Pisces @ 23 Degrees, not only an Aquarius Degree, 23 Degrees brings about unexpected shifts and extreme dramatic changes. Then, I look toward their Nodal MC (In Jacob’s case) or IC line, paired with my intution I can pick up where this past life took place. I believe Jacob lived in Los Angeles, California during his most recent past life. *yes I'm on a Jacob Elordi kick lol*

The Piscean energy, known for its depth, intuition, and spiritual inclinations, resonates with the artistic and creative life he led in Los Angeles. It implies that Jacob's current life is a continuation of that journey, bringing forward lessons, talents, and unresolved quests. The unexpected shifts and dramatic changes he experiences, especially in high-profile relationships and his unique personal style, are echoes of the past. They are invitations to explore deeper layers of his soul, to understand the complexities of human relationships, and to embrace the artistic and intuitive gifts he has carried over from that past life.

I believe he was deeply rooted in the arts and culture scene of Los Angeles during The Golden Age of Hollywood (1920s-1950s). Not merely a spectator, but a creator, a mover in the vibrant world of creative expression. His career was marked by an innovative spirit, likely intertwined with the burgeoning film industry, which was flourishing in Los Angeles during this period. His work was more than a job; it was a calling, a way to leave an indelible mark on the world, merging artistic vision with the palpable energy of the city.

His face reflected determination and intelligence, with sharp, possibly deep-set eyes. These eyes, a dark hue, would have conveyed depth and insight. His eyebrows might have been prominent, lending an air of intensity to his expressions. His olive skin tone was influenced by a mix of ethnicities. He may have worn minimal jewelry, with a pocket watch being a very imporant staple in his every day life. His walk and posture likely exuded confidence and purpose, with a straight-backed, assertive manner of carrying himself. 

However, there are a lot of set backs in his past life and a feeling of failure in his career. Confirmed by his South Node square his Midheaven. The early to mid-20th century was a time of significant social and cultural shifts. Adapting to these changes, especially in a diverse and dynamic city like Los Angeles, might not have always been easy. He could have found himself at odds with the evolving societal norms or struggled to find his place during times of change. Like many in the creative fields, financial stability might have been a challenge. There could have been periods of financial hardship, where sustaining his artistic endeavors or maintaining a certain lifestyle became difficult.

xox astro ash

Get your own Past Life Reading @ astroash.net

TikTok - astroa3h

[honeybeewhereartthee]

My Darling Dolls

Chapter 34

Previous | current | Next

- MC -

"Wow, your good at this." Toujou peak at your work as you just draw him and write your entre in the back.

"You should made a living out of this." He says as he inspect it in different angle then he saw your writing in the back. " Is this another part of your art? I don't understand it. Is this supposed to be person?"

"... It's my writing." You mumble. "Ahahaha ?say what now? Y-your writing... Pff--" He laugh his ass of as he hear you says that.

You sigh and let him laugh.

You look around not noticing certain purple fluff fluff went to your shoulder and look up to you adoringly. Looking far off of the distance. Yet you never seems to be able to see it still.

It been few months since you arrive in this place and time period. You just manage to produce your handmade paper after a while.

"Your hair looks very white." Toujou says as he point at your white hair that you realize turn white after you come to this time period. It's like old people white hair. It's probably because you went over the top with your wishes and one of the punishment.

"Like snow." He smile. You look at him and rolled your eyes. You went back to your drawing and you unconsciously draw a familiar grin of someone.

"...who's that?" Toujou peak at your work but you hide it. "Someone." You smile as you went outside so he won't Able to view it. The purple fluff follow you and peak at it. It start to shake again in glee it float around you and rub its fluff on your cheeks.

"Hey..." You turn your head to look at Toujou whos eyes widen as your lips touch the fluff which seems to be surprised at your action and fainted with it's friend went and try to reshape his puddle of joy in the floor. Yet you did not see any of that. Toujou held his mouth as he just bare witness you stealing a kiss from a hopeless fluff-- cough, a soul.

" What. Why are you looking at me like that." You saw his tearful gaze and disapproval look at you. You walk back to the table walking pass the purple fluff who regain it's shape and follow you again.

"MC..." He suddenly enter parent mode as he look at you. "What?" You mumble as you pick up another paper to draw something in. "You have to take responsibility! You just stole a kiss from it!" he then point at the purple fluff you cannot see.

"Hmm is this your screw lose again?" You cross your arms as you once again listen to his oddity. He keep saying about things you can't see. He keep insisting some fluff likes you for some reason.

" If the fluff you speak of have purple and blue in color. And name Mayoi. Then fine." You sneakers as you said that. It's clearly impossible --

"Oh my! How did you know those!" Toujou heard the purple fluff whisper to him it's name. "It's indeed name Mayoi, purple and blue in color!" He says which made you pause.

...

"Hey what did you say those fluff is again..." You suddenly felt you miss out something very important when you discovered that name.

"Don't you dare change the topic!" Toujou cross his arms in disapproval.

"I'm not changing the topic! I'm being serious!" You complained.

"I..." You wanna say something but keep it in. "Fine." You sneakers.

"Where's the fluff?" You look at Toujou who point at your cheeks where the purple fluff is. 'is this...' you try to held the fluff you cannot see in your palm, it float to your palm in glee.

'mayoi ayase... Does this means it's before that time...' you thought as you try to imagine what he looks in that soul form of his. "*Chuu." You smile as you kiss him. You felt your energy being drained but he slowly become visible in your eyes.

"Cute." You hug him.

"Oh wow. What did you do?" Toujou saw the fluff become vibrant in color when you kiss it just now. "Also you just kiss it again. Double responsibility!" He point out. "I know you don't have parental supervisor in your life. So I will tell you, kissing someone shouldn't be taken lightly!"

"If people drown. Then life guard shouldn't conduct CPR to save their life. Because it mean they'll be married to many people." You rolled your eyes at his words. You look down to Mayoi soul who seems to be very happy.

"I-..." He narrowed his eyes at you. He then frown and look at you. " They already unfortunate enough to not be born as human yet you still treat their first love and kiss so lightly?! How could you!" He start rudely pointing finger at you.

"...agh." you cover your ears as he start to nag you like a naggy old man.

Mayoi nudge you in comfort and you smile as you hug him softly again.

"Don't you dare cover your ears, young one!" He pulled your ears and start retelling stuff about this and don't to your ears. You felt you wanna punch someone but don't. You have respect to the elderly people... Well he is older than you in your time period.

"Stop yelling!" You complain as you try to run away from him. But he follow you like that annoying trumpet guy.

"COME BACK HERE. DO YOU NOT FEEL GUILTY? HOW COULD YOU! GET MARRIED TO THE FLUFF QUICKLY!"

he ordered you as he rudely point at you. You throw a middle finger at him and he smack you in the head with his fan. "Your being rude with that gesture again!"

"Stop it!" You rub your shoulder he hit. "I will dislocate your shoulder if you hit me again!" You threatened with a fist up. "Aw!" You once again hit by a fan. "Be thankful I'm not raising a slipper on you, child." He says.

"You--"

Suddenly in that moment you and him saw bright shooting down from the sky and landed in the forest near his property. An explosion of wave of wind comes and blow you both to the wall. The fluff around you all fly to the wall too.

"...w-what..." You felt your headache as it hit the wall far too hard and slowly lost consciousness.

...

- KANAME TOUJOU -

"I FOUND ANOTHER ENTRE!" kaname boosted as he manage to get an entre of your journal in the past.

"Seriously. Why did you drag me in this." Jun who's force by Kaname to tag along with him says, he have better plan than this. He could be reading bunch of Manga right now!

"Come on, Jun-kun! It's fun to look around and find some time capsule!" Hiyori who tagged along at the mention of MC as he don't see you for a while now. He also want to see some old things a certain famous Toujou of the Idol industry is.

"Shhhh..." Kaname shut them up as he flip open the folded page. He saw a drawing of meteor landing site.

[ ???? (????)

A shooting star landed on the backyard.

That old man is lucky I get knock out before I smack him to oblivion for hitting me with his fan. He better sleep one eye open. >.>

-MC- ]

"...that's one ugly hand writing." Jun commented as he look at the handwriting he can't understand shit in.

"Shut it! The handwriting is clearly fine! You all just too dumb to not understand it!" Kaname rolled a textbook he found and hit jun with it.

"Fuck. Stop it!" Jun complain. "It's an ugly and not readable handwriting! I'm not lying!" He point it out as he run off far from Kaname reach of smacking paper roll.

"How dare you insult MC handwriting!" Kaname don't like any of that.

"Oh... Oh my... But the only case of such event is from..." Hiyori who pick up the entre and manage to read a bit of it because he seen such handwriting from Ibara before. Ibara likes to decodes those stuff he get from his ancestor. He said he probably discovered a secret of a true Businessman from it when he finally able to read all of it.

"What?" Jun who look surprised and bewailed at Hiyori and Kaname who look at him with sparkling eyes. "YOU CAN UNDERSTAND IT TOO?!" kaname held hiyori hand as he finally have another buddy who could understand MC alien-- cough beautiful unique handwriting.

"Hmm. Just a bit. Ibara have a bunch of those in his office..." He give back the entre to Kaname as he search an event in his phone. When the search load, his eyes narrowed.

"Kaname-kun. Why does the date says over a hundred years ago..." He show the article of the only shooting star landing in the country over the last hundred years.

"..." Kaname held the phone and the drawing. ' MC that time period is so lame, there's no phone there. Can't you pick a better place to visit?' he thought hopelessly.

...

- MC -

"With that blood on the top of your head and your white hair. You remind me of a male chicken." Toujou says after he put a lousy bandage on your head injury.

"I will call you, little cock." He said very proudly at his new nickname.

"...." You get some of the blood from your head and smack your hand to his face. "Your a bitch." You hiss at him and his stupid Nickname.

"What? You mean like female dogs? Dogs are cute. So it's fine I guess." He don't seems to understand that your insulting him at all.

You felt bad for calling him that for a moment.

"Come on little cock. Let's go search the site!" Toujou beam as he put his footwear.

"..." Nevermind that so called feeling just now. He still calling you little cock.

"~~!!" You felt something soft rub against your face as you wear your footwear to follow your landlord. "Mayoi~" you giggle as you held him in your palm and give him a little kiss. "*Chuu chuu."

"Stop kissing it! It's a sin!" You get smack in the back by Toujou who sees such vile act in his eyes. "Only kiss when you get married ok?" He then proceed to drag you to the crash landing site and Mayoi gasp on you shoulder to follow you along. Colorful balls of fluff float to follow you two as well.

"Tks. Don't you know curiosity kills the cat." You grumble as you two force your way deep in the forest

...

When you two arrive in that place. You see a huge hole in the ground. "We could fill this and make a pool." You mumble as you take note of the area as you jump down to the hole, and sliding down.

"LITTLE COCK!"

"Ah..." You accidentally mess slide and now your rolling down. "AWW.." you grumble as you finally rolled to the flat round. Your body only knows pain. "I hate this."

"Same." You heard someone grumble beside you. You turn to look at a kid with fluffy hair and snow white skin tone. You look down and quickly look up again when the fluff covered your eyes.

"~!!" Mayoi says as made sure you won't see any ding dong. "Lilia really have to throw me off this far..." He grumble as he stood up but lost footing. "Fuck." You heard him says before you felt intense coldness around your surrounding.

"Hmm~ " you heard a humming tone and everything around you become frozen paradise.

"LITTLE COCK!" you heard Toujou says as he finally able to get down as a staircase down just created out of nowhere.

"I found you!" You felt him hugs you before he remove the fluff covering your eyes.

"Goodness. Your in a bad shape." He mumble and you look at the place that suddenly cover with ice and winter.

"I'm fine." You move away from him and stood up. Through your body still wounded and in pain all over.

You look around and saw the kid earlier have some cloths now. You went and pick him up but his too heavy. "Helpp." You called out Toujou who quickly assist you to bring back the other person who fall down the hole.

...

- KANAME TOUJOU -

"Pff-- little cock and bitch. AHAHAHAh." Jun laugh his ass off after he finally learn how to read your writing after spending a whole week with Kaname and Hiyori. They currently in McDonalds getting treated by Hiyori with his fancy black credit card.

"I don't teach the dumb ass like you to laugh at it!" Kaname once again grab a flayer from the table and roll it to smack jun with it.

"Come on Jun-kun. People back in the day really don't think vulgar words of today as vulgar and rude as we do today." Hiyori says as he sigh while he sip his cola.

"Tks. What a kill joy." Jun rolled his eyes as he turn his gaze back to the last entre that show a picture of a stranger with fluffy hair being taken in by 'toujou'

RING RING.

"Ah! big brother!" Kaname pick up his phone to answer his older brother call with a smile, he likes it when his big brother call him. It makes him happy and wanted.

{ Kaname can you bring groceries. I'll send you the list. }

"Oki!!" He smiled and nodded. He quickly stood up and gather his stuff. "Ahm I need to pick up groceries for everyone in the house." Maybe this time he could assist them making that doll! His eyes burn in determination.

"House... WAIT DID YOU MEAN THAT HAUNTED HOUSE?!" Jun have heard about the house the Darling dolls live at. "I WANNA TAG ALONG!" his eyes sparkle at the thought of seeing a real life haunted house. He did read some horror manga lately and very interested to see one.

"I'll tag along too! ii Hiyori!" Hiyori raise his hand as he want to join the fun. "Ehh... But I have to buy groceries first." Kaname don't want to bring people in MC place when MC isn't there to allow them.

"I'll pay for groceries!" Hiyori the rich kid says.

"...ok!!" kaname agreed in a heart beat.

...

❌ Tag List: @valeriele3 @emikoisdead @allimili

[jozigist]

After three-year hiatus, SA artist Thabsie returns with Dubai Tourism deal

After three-year hiatus, SA artist Thabsie returns with Dubai Tourism deal Bathabise Biyela better known as Thabsie described her partnership with Dubai Tourism as a step in the right direction especially after her three year break from music due to Covid-19.

The star entered the music industry as a R&B vocalist and is popularly known for hit singles, African Queen, and Ngiyaz'fela Ngawe. In the latter, she featured in the song belonging to multi-award-winning rapper Kwesta. This song was one of her gateways into the spotlight. Thabsie has also been a backup vocalist for a number of artists such as Cassper Nyovest, Donald, Black Motion, Khuli Chana, and Proverb.

"Covid-19 was my saving grace to take a break. For most of 2020 South Africa was in lockdown. This meant no gigs so I thought to myself how else can I still be creative while being in my home. Content creation was a very nice departure for me and also it worked for the times. It was lockdown, I couldn't perform as much, making music was a bit harder, festivals were closed so the music kind of had to take a back seat, " said Thabsie.

With just over a million followers on Instagram, this new creative avenue for the singer has become a successful brand extension. She also says because she's a multifaceted creative, creating content on social media allows her to not limit her creative abilities at a time when it was challenging to do so The star lives by the saying " to make the world smaller, start travelling." And having recently partnered with Dubai tourism as an ambassador she felt inspired because of how similar Dubai and SA are when weighing them on the same scale.

"In SA we love shiny things and feeling good, Dubai is that place. Without faulting Dubai for the stigma it has gained in SA this place is inspirational, aspirational and gives many opportunities. South Africans love to laugh and share our vibrant energy. Our music brings so much joy and it has become far reaching across the world, especially in Dubai. To me, this country has opened my eyes to how big and amazing the world can be," said Thabsie. Kenya's most loved couple Bahati and Diana Marua have also partnered with Dubai Tourism. The couple is part of an upcoming campaign that shows you the A to Z of Dubai, and all the amazing sights and sounds that Kenyans and Africans can enjoy in Dubai. "Thank you, Dubai Tourism, for trusting the Bahati's with the ambassadorial job. I cannot wait for the world to see the magic we have created - the best advert so far," Bahati posted on his Instagram. The Bahati's join a coveted list of global celebrities that have shot adverts for Dubai including Indian actor Shah Rukh Khan, Hollywood superstar Martin Lawrence, Nollywood stars Chioma Akpotha, Uche Jumbo, Omoni Oboli and Ufuoma MC Dermott. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ph21cYuQ9Fw Read the full article

[bellamyblakru]

every time newt says tommy i gain one will to live point😌

[actualbird]

luke pearce comes back from his 8 year disappearance a father, for he has adopted a child

wc: 877

disclaimer: this idea is not up for grabs for other ppl to write it or use it. i will write this as a full fic myself, i just wanted to wordbarf ideas out first

so you cant convince me that luke "orphan boy" pearce would NOT adopt, if ever he were to have a child.

i know the whole "my parents died when i was very young" thing doesnt pop up much in luke's stories, nor does he express too many negative emotions on it, but im sure that if he ever were to make the choice to raise a kid, he'd want to adopt. he'd want to give another kid who lost their parents a life and happiness they didnt think they could get anymore.

but choice isnt really a factor in luke becoming a father. he couldnt say no. he wouldnt.

still figuring out the exact PLOT of how the child HAPPENS but it's linked to NSB stuff. maybe the kid was collateral leftover from a mission and luke was the one who did this mission (AND NO HE DIDNT KILL THE PARENTS, somebody else did, somebody evil, and luke kills THAT evil person), luke was the one the kid immediately imprinted onto and by the time luke got back to NSB HQ, the little girl was clinging to his leg fiercely, the blood splatter on both of them be damned.

"luke saved me," she said, quiet yet fierce. luke gave her his real name because there's no way he's ever going to lie to a child. "so he's mine now!"

everybody finds her adorable and finds luke's immense panic about the situation adorable but it's aaron who finally manages to get the little girl ("my name is evie," she giggles, grabbing for the lollipop aaron is bribing her with. "gimme that and i'll let you talk to luke alone!") to get some snacks from the vending machine with his spare change.

aaron is the one who watches luke have a bit of a breakdown over it all. evie said that luke saved her, and he did, and he cant even bear to think what would have happened if he got to her too late (but he has to think about how he was too late to save her parents). luke is 20 years old and this kid looks at him like hes her entire world, and right now whether he likes it or not, thats true. because her real world was ripped away from her and luke has to pick up the pieces and mend them together into something soft and safe and happy.

"the NSB will place her somewhere shitty," luke says, clenching his fists. "you know they dont give a damn about what happens to people like her. the mission is done."

"but you cant be the one to do this," aaron tells him. "at the very least, you cant do it alone."

"i cant," luke sighs. evie starts walking towards the two of them, a pile of candybars in her arms, and luke lets himself smile. "i'll need all the help i can get."

anyway long story short, luke adopts evie. aaron and his wife look after evie when luke is away on missions. something something more stuff about how basically everything is taken care of and evie lives a pretty wonderful few years with her odd family ("luke is dad, aaron is dad 2, mrs. yishmir is mom 2," evie says. then she blinks up at luke. "dad, when are you going to get married?" and luke chokes on his energy drink)

FAST FORWARD. luke is back in stellis like canon and when he reunites with mc, he's holding the hand of a little girl with bright eyes and a vibrant smile.

"my name is eve pearce!" she introduces herself to mc. "you can call me evie! im detective pearce's best assistant!"

and so everything in canon is the same but not quite

(and my plan in this fic is one HELLUVA nxx ot5 found family (maybe full polycule or platonic, still figuring it out). but yes, mc and the other nxx boys supporting luke and taking care of evie along with him and being there for him every time he has a breakdown over how hes a bad father and how he'll never be enough.

and they let him vent but also they lovingly bonk him on the head from time to time, LUKE PEARCE U R A WONDERFUL FATHER, SHUT THE HELL UP, AND THIS IS A LEARNING PROCESS, OKAY!!!! a learning process for all of them. because theyre all gonna squeeze in and do their own weird brand of parenting with luke. because nxx investigation team means family and family means NOBODY GETS LEFT BEHIND!!!

it takes a village to raise a kid, as they say, and evie is very very happy that her family just got A WHOLE LOT BIGGER. shes a bit confused tho as to who luke is going to marry, theyre all so cool, afterall!!! can he marry all of them? she'd like that. that would mean she'd get SO MANY BIRTHDAY GIFTS!!! >u<)

[sonthesheep]

Location Unknown (pt2)

Asra's point of view

by:sonthesheep

Asra x GN! MC/Reader

FLUFF!

note: this is Asra's point of view in the other drabble I've written because asra yearning hours are never over

It has been 3 years since the day Asra revived you, A few days since he left you alone to travel far away to keep himself together from the feelings he has always been trying to conceal.

In his own oasis, the sunset never leaves the colors stay and he kept everything that is unsaid spoken splattered in his territory.

He was never selfish and only wanted the best for you, His beloved

but you never knew, He never told you. Instead he wanted to conceal it and escape away from it even from you, if it means you'll live the best life he'd offer it for you.

But with your new life at stake, he had half his heart with you and everytime he leaves it aches, the longing lingered and love never left--- if anything happens it just dug deeper and sat even more comfortably.

Asra sat under a vibrant colored tree, with butterflies floating around but onto his rest he heard your call deep onto his heart as if it was a calling that only him can comprehend.

He closed his eyes to feel not just your words but what half of himself whispers, it's the same longing he has even the same feelings he kept.

'I still think of you too, If only you knew When I'm feeling a bit down, I don't wanna pull through'

He felt his chest slightly tingling due to what he just felt, he thought it was just him and the battles he was having, the magician knew what he had for you is burrowed enough and he couldn't tell if it was just his feelings playing around with him and reciprocity doesn't sit still on his mind.

He was trying to shrug it off so bad but the pulling force of your cries unheard is ripping of his senses

"Y/n... i just hope it wasn't me who's making this up"

'I look over you photograph and i think how much I miss you'

Asra couldn't help himself but reminisce you, how you were back then, how you are now and even how innocent you looked when you crack up silly questions as he taught you back your knowledge in magic.

Oh how we wish, he was able to tell you how selfless you were and how wonderful you've been only if it isn't going to hurt you.

"i miss you so bad, too much that it hurts me too Y/N"

'I wish I knew where I was 'Cause I don't have a clue'

sometimes it's hard to pinpoint who he really was to you, or did you know his unsaid feelings or if he said it would it be the best for both of you specifically to you who's just gaining back things in this new life you have.

Asra felt bad for leaving you behind but he had no choice, everytime you asked where he was going he never really answered your questions. He hated the look of longing on your face, the idea of leaving far away from you.

'I just need to work out some way of getting me to you'

He felt your every tremble and the vibrations of your chest as you overthink his location, That was the last straw for the magician. He couldn't keep himself any longer away from you and all he thinks about is you, your warmth and how you became his Home.

Asra summoned all the strength remaining to summon things together to go back to you, so he could be able to grabe you by his arms

at the moment he gathered his energy onto his hand, he heard you so clearly whimpering

"Asra, I miss you so much"

That time he knew, that it wasn't his imagination but it was you with the same ache on your heart.

Portal flew open to your shop's front door and tugging on the magician's heart cried louder, He knocked gently as he bit on his lower lips trying to connect

He's so close to you, He's close to his Home.

He knocked gently with his hands warm yet feeling cold, he didn't even wait for your response but as he swung the door open he ran to you with arms wide open and as soon as your face touch his chest, all his questions were answered.

"I'm home, I missed you so bad" Asra said as his gentle voice tickled your ears.

you sniffled onto his neck, replying : "Oh asra, if only you knew"

"I know i was far away, but all i ever think of is how I'll get back to you Y/N"

' you are home and you will always be'

SO THIS IS ASRA'S POV HDJAJDBEJSJ IF YOU WANNA READ THE FIRST ONE AND MC'S POV HERE'S THE LINK HEHEHE

DHJAHDHE I LOVE THIS SONG SO MUCH I JUST THINK IT'S VERY ASRA AND MC HDHAJDBD

i kinda wanna write more kakhdhwjdhej i hope i sniff more creative juices

p. s this is also based on asra's first chapters mwehehe

[marmolady]

New Horizons

Main Pairings: Estela x (f)MC, Graleister

Summary: Endless Ending. Liv and Reggie are starting school in San Trobida. Notes at the end!

Word Count: 9695

Chronology: After 'Growing Pains', before 'How the time escapes me...'

Tagging: @saivilo, @edgydepressedchoicesthot, @sceptilemasterr, @greengroove @mauvecatfic​

Thanks for reading!

San Trobida, July 2035

“Hey, Auntie Grace!”

Reggie looked up from his book at the sound of his cousin’s voice, and hastily placed aside his shiny new copy of ‘A Guide to San Trobidan History’ so he could rush out into the hallway.

Grace was already wrapping Liv in a hug. “Hello, sweetheart.” She kissed the side of her niece’s head, before her eyes wandered down to a bloodied knee. “Did you have a mishap on your bike on the way here?”

“Yeah… I clipped the kerb and crashed,” Liv said, offering her aunt a better view of her wound. As she heard Reggie’s footsteps, she looked up to meet his eye and smiled.

“Youch!” Reggie offered sympathetically as he came close enough to peer over Liv’s grazed knee.

Liv shrugged. “I’ve had worse.”

Grace, though, was more concerned. “Are you sure you didn’t hit your head when you fell?”

“No, just scraped my knee. It does actually sting a bit.”

“Hmm. Well, I think we’d better put some anti-septic that knee just to be safe.”

The new house was a mess. Boxes and misplaced furniture filled every room, and the twins-- six years old-- had been making forts with the packing boxes that had been emptied so far. The family had been in the house for just over a day, and some good progress had already been made. There had been a lot that had been left behind. Neither Aleister nor Grace put too much value on material possessions, so most of what had come with them and the children to their new home in San Trobida had been essential furniture, and the mountains of photo albums and memorabilia from a life with the kids.

Grace sat Liv down on a wooden ottoman, and, after a little bit of rummaging, found the first aid kit.

“Okay, this might hurt just a little,” she said gently, and she carefully dabbed Liv’s graze.

Liv yelped, “Fuck!”, causing Reggie to gasp, looking to his mother for a reaction, and Erin and Immy to burst out giggling from inside their box-fort.

Grace raised an eyebrow, but her warm smile didn’t shift. “It stings that much?”

“Yeah…,” Liv said, flushing a little. “Sorry about the language.”

“I’m sure I didn’t hear a thing.”

There was the usual bustling around as Aleister got the girls into their shoes; Immy and Erin had decided that swapping one shoe with one another was the peak of humour, but eventually, their father managed to get them each into a left and a right-- even if they didn’t match. Six-and-a-half-year-old sisters, Reggie had come to realise, made just about everything more of a headache than necessary.

Eventually, though, they were on their way. His mom and dad, walking beside the twins as they pootled along on their bicycles, had the address, but Reggie rode ahead with Liv, taking her lead as she zig-zagged through the streets of Valle Brava. Having only set foot on San Trobidan soil as a new resident some twenty-four hours ago, everything aspect of his environment set his senses alight. This wasn’t like being back in America. Perhaps it was the tropical climate, but he was reminded much more of La Huerta-- of home. Liv certainly seemed right at home here. She and her mothers had settled a few weeks before, and Liv had been coming here pretty much all her life. There were just a few blocks between their respective houses, and the wide cycle paths along the bitumen roads made for an easy journey. This, Reggie had been told, was a newly developed area; much had been re-built since the war he knew his Tia Estela had been involved in. The cycle paths ended as they came nearer to Liv’s place, a little way out of the main township. The foliage on either side of the road became thicker, and there was less street noise, more birdsong.

“Beat you!” Liv announced as she planted her feet into the ground, forcing her bicycle to a stop.

Reggie grumbled, pulling up beside his cousin in front of a humble bungalow-style house with outer walls a vibrant azure blue against yellow accents. The sound of a dog barking-- unmistakably Liv’s Robin, was further confirmation they’d arrived. “You didn’t beat me, Livia. I was following you. I didn’t even know where we were going.”

“Jeez, dude. No one likes a sore loser….”

“I am not a--!”

The door swung open.

“Reggie!” Taylor wasted no time in sweeping her nephew into a hug. “It’s so good to see you! I can’t believe you still have the energy for cycling over here-- didn’t you move house, like, yesterday?”

Reggie laughed. “Hi, Auntie Taylor!” There was something about seeing a familiar face in this new environment that made the pieces seem to click into place. Family made it home. “I’m a little bit tired but mostly just excited. I did sleep in today, so I guess I won’t crash until later.” His sisters on the other hand… there was no way they’d last the evening without overtiredness rearing its ugly head.

“I’m guessing your mom and dad are on their way with the girls?”

“Yeah,” said Liv, “but they’re pretty slow. I don’t have to wait to give Reggie the grand tour, do I?”

“Knock yourself out, kid. Hang on, Liv? Walk your bike through the house, please.”

“I was gonna!”

Reggie could only smirk. Like hell you were….

“Aaaand,” Liv finished off with a flourish, “this is my room!” She opened the door to a good-sized bedroom. It seemed to Reggie that what floor-space wasn’t taken up by the bed was piled up with boxes.

“I mean, I can’t say the mess wasn’t a clue.”

Liv gave her cousin a look as she flopped into her bed. “Hey-- moving house is hard. You’ll see soon enough. You get started all excited, but once you start living your life, you kinda get… stuck. Mama Taylor says we’re going to just blitz it all next weekend, and throw ourselves a pizza party as a reward.”

Reggie got up onto the bed and crossed his legs. “Do you like it here?”

“I love it here! I always liked coming here when I was little, so I guess it doesn’t feel like something completely different. I reckon my tio abuelo is over the moon that we’re here for good; it’s like I’ve got a grandparent now.” Liv’s cheeks flushed pink, and she glanced away.

Understanding, Reggie nodded. Together, they’d grown up in a family that didn’t take the traditional shape. There were some things that simply couldn’t be explained to other friends; like why Reggie’s grandma could help him with his homework, but could never come in for grandparents’ day, and why Liv had a whole side of the family with no grandparents at all-- not even dead ones.

“And,” Liv continued, “people don’t really look at my Mama Estela funny. I noticed that years ago. I guess ‘cause of the war, people don’t look twice at someone who’s maybe a little bit banged-up. I got so sick of it back in America. Every time we met someone new, they’d put on that ‘God, what happened?’ face. Maybe Mom doesn’t want to explain the whole ‘revolutionary in a civil war’ thing to every random person who can’t mind their own business. Some people have scars-- big freaking deal. It’s better here.”

“Yeah, that would be a nice change. The amount of times I’ve seen you and Auntie Taylor look at a nosy idiot like you want to deck ‘em--”

Liv burst out laughing. “True, that.”

The sound of excited barking rang out from the backyard. It seemed pretty likely to Reggie that his parents and sisters had just arrived. When he and Liv arrived in the backyard, Erin had already joined Estela at the barbecue, desperate to be involved, while Immy was passionately talking to Nicolas about goodness-knows-what. Reggie made a mental note to rescue him in a few minutes; that kid could be intense, and the poor old guy had come out here for a relaxing lunch with his niece.

Nicely, but firmly, Reggie nudged the wriggling, writhing form of Robin the dog to the side so he could join his mother and Auntie Taylor at the large alfresco table under the porch. And Robin returned to his favoured position at the feet of the barbecue-- Erin was just a kid, surely, she’d drop something….

“Do you need a hand with the salads?” Reggie asked as he greeted his mother with a hug. He’d been seeking a lot of those. With so much changing, familial comfort meant a lot, and he wasn’t ashamed to admit it.

Perhaps more than anything, though, he was grateful to have Liv by his side. It was the way it had always been; from their toddler days on La Huerta, through elementary school, to their adventures in home-schooling. Some things might change-- some things might change immeasurably-- but he always had his cousin.

___________________________

La Huerta, 2028

Liv yelled out as she splashed down into the shallow surf. “Reggie!”

“I got her, Xiraana!” Reggie cried, and soon he was joined by a young Vaanti girl, who helped restrain their victim.

“No, no!” Liv squealed as she struggled. Vaanti kids, she’d long ago realised, were strong. “You’ll never take me alive!”

“Five-- four--- three….” Xiraana counted down, not letting Liv out of her grasp.

“Two-- one!” Reggie finished triumphantly, and he let his cousin fall unceremoniously back into the water. “The klaawyi ate all the meat off your bones. You’re one of us now!”

Liv pouted, but admitted defeat. It wasn’t the worst thing that could happen; she was pretty good on Team Klaawyi anyway. Or, she would have been… had she not seen the figure of her favourite uncle descending onto the beach from the great tree of Elyys’tel.

“Tio Diegoooooo! Hiiiii!” Liv ran across the sand, almost tripping in her desperation to reach him.

“Hey, Livia!” Reggie cried out, indignant at being suddenly abandoned. “You’re meant to help us catch them!”

But Diego had crouched down to wrap Liv in a hug, and Reggie might as well be talking to a pile of rocks for all that was being absorbed.

“Tio, they got me! Reggie and Xiraana got me, and now I’m a klaawyi!”

“You?” Diego laughed. “You’re no klaawyi-- I’ve never seen a klaawyi that was ticklish!”

“Wha--?” Oh no. Once again, Liv was shrieking with mirth, this time dodging the tickling hands of her tio.

Still standing in the shallows, Reggie stomped his foot, which achieved little but splashing himself in the face. The game went on without them; games of Klaawyi Chase didn’t stop for anyone. The usual fun on the beaches outside Elyys’tel would go on like this every day… whether Reggie and Liv were there to join in or not. And Reggie didn’t want to miss out now.

“Come on, Livia!”

She just shook her head, not letting her adoring gaze up at Diego slip for so much as a heartbeat. “Nah,” she said. “I’m done.”

Torn, knowing that whichever direction he ran in, he’d lose out on precious time with friends, Reggie admitted defeat and rushed back to Liv’s side on the shore. He looked back over his shoulder and waved goodbye-- for what he’d been told would likely be a long, long time. Engrossed in their game, his friends gave just the most fleeting of farewells before continuing to race through the small waves that lapped the beach.

Liv, in contrast, had eyes only for her tio. She clasped his hand tightly; if she held on tight enough, perhaps he’d have no choice but to come with her to wherever her mothers were taking her in the big aeroplane.

Where exactly she was going, Liv didn’t quite understand. It was away from La Huerta, but they weren’t going back to live with Tio Nicolas, they were going… someplace else. Someplace with no Tio Diego and Varyyn, where all the other kids would be boring shades of pink and brown rather than blue and green, and where no one knew about the yeti-bear, or the magic crystal alien that made her mom, or about The Story of the Year the World Stopped.

“I want you to come, Tio Diego…,” Liv softly beseeched.

Diego’s eyes grew misty, her earnest words having tipped him over the edge after what had been a long period of emotional build-up. Goodbyes were never easy, and Liv’s family was his family. He squeezed her little hand gently.

“I’ll visit you, Livi-- I promise. Cross my heart. And your mommies will bring you over to visit us here too; you are going to learn so many new games at school that you can teach Xiraana and the other kids.”

“But I’ll miss you…”

Having rejoined Liv, Reggie peered up at Diego’s teary face with concern. “Diego, you’re making your glasses all foggy.”

“Ha. I know, I know!” Diego wiped his eyes. “You might have a point there, Reggie; I want to spend this last night with you guys actually being able to see you!”

Liv giggled and wrapped her arms around her uncle’s legs, only to be peeled off and hoisted into the air. “We can still have fun until bedtime, can’t we? Will you tell us a story?”

On the ground, Reggie danced around, his arms waving. Diego-time was the best story-time.

In the arms of her tio, her playmate since she was a baby bouncing on his knee, Liv was a mess of emotions; of fear and excitement, of merriment that competed with the looming sorrow. It was more than her little self had a clue what to do with. She was only five.

Sensing his cousin’s turmoil, Reggie reached up a hand and took hold of Liv’s, hanging down by Diego’s side. “Don’t worry, Livia! If you worry, you won’t enjoy story-time.”

Liv stuck out her bottom lip. That little nerd-face could be pretty smart sometimes. Tomorrow night, there would be no goodnight story from Tio Diego, but tomorrow night was not now-- now, everything was as it should be. Her wavering grin returned, and to her delight, it brought matching smiles to the faces of her companions.

“Do you think Varyyn, and my mommies, and Auntie Grace and Uncle Alli, and Auntie Grace’s tummy babies want to listen to the story too?”

“Yeah,” Diego said, letting Liv back down to the ground, where she immediately found another hug in Reggie’s arms, “I think everyone would really like that.”

_____________________________

San Trobida, August 2035

“I don’t get it,” Liv said thoughtfully, as the car rolled right on past the turn for her Auntie Grace and Uncle Al’s place. “It’s right on the way; wouldn’t it have been easier for us to pick up Reggie?”

“Hon,” Taylor replied, “I think Reggie wanted his mom and dad to take him to orientation. They’ll probably be better at helping with his jitters than we would be.”

“I guess.” Liv looked out the window, watching the surrounding vegetation thicken once more as the car followed the road up out of the valley. “Orientation Day shouldn’t be too bad, right? Just, like, meeting our teachers, learning where stuff is, that kinda thing?” And you’ll have to try and make friends. That would be a laugh.

By the time they pulled up at the Las Selvas Secondary School, however, Liv fully understood her cousin’s nerves, and realised that was probably why she’d been so disappointed that he didn’t share a car with her. Through every big change in their young lives, his presence had been a reassuring constant.

“Uggghh,” she groaned. “Can I change my mind? Home-schooling was all right; more of that, please.”

Estela leaned from the front seat and gave Liv’s knee a squeeze. “You know, I don’t think he’d ever say it, but I’m pretty sure Reggie would be really scared if he had to walk into this without you. Besides, you were so excited about starting here; you owe it to yourself to at least giving it a shot.”

Again, Liv groaned, this time even louder. “It’s so annoying when you’re right.”

“Story of my life,” Taylor laughed, while Estela smirked.

When they pulled up at the school, Reggie was already waiting, standing beside the car-park while his parents fussed over him.

“You have your phone?” Grace quizzed, checking for the fourth time since they’d set off.

“I told you, yes!” Reggie replied, and he pulled his phone out of his pocket to wave around for good measure. “I’ll send you a message when I’m ready to be picked up, I promise.”

“In that case, you just have a wonderful time, darling.” She wrapped him in a hug-- already Reggie was easily as tall as her. “Go well, and have fun.”

Liv rushed over, all smiles. Her own nerves were a whole lot less bothersome when she had the distraction of friendly faces.

There were a few more rounds of hugs exchanged-- and then, suddenly, Liv and Reggie were on their own.

“You wanna head over? Looks like people are already crowding around-- it’s probably gonna start soon.”

Reggie’s expression brightened, as if he’d been just waiting for a little push for his confidence to surge back forth. “Well, it will hardly be an auspicious start here if we miss the principal’s address. Get a move on, Livia!”

The morning passed relatively quickly. Liv placed herself next to Reggie at all times-- they’d been put in the same Grade Seven home room as requested, making him one of the eldest in the class, and her one of the youngest. The whole set-up wasn’t entirely different to the school they were accustomed to, other than the bilingual approach. They were given a small pile of boring paperwork, and outlines of what to expect in their new classes; as English was their first language, they’d be taking ‘Spanish as a Second Language’, and Liv was also excited about ‘Nature Studies’, a subject she’d never been offered in America.

As far as Liv was concerned, the most traumatic part of the session was being expected to stand up in front of a room of strangers and give a short spiel about themselves. The perfect opportunity to officially balls-up any chance they might have of making new friends, or at least that was how she saw it. She mumbled down into her chest; something about enjoying hiking and gymnastics, something about liking Batman, and animals, and then she hurriedly sat right back down with flaming cheeks. Reggie, she observed, handled the brief foray into public speaking with rather more poise. Even though he was shy-- perhaps even more than she was-- he seemed able to go into ‘school presentation’ mode, and breeze through. When he sat back down, though, his hands were shaking-- but that was for the eyes of his trusted friend only.

When the lunch break came along, Liv was ravenous; a new and challenging social situation could do that to a person. While Reggie sloped off to the bathrooms, she tested out the school canteen, emerging a little while later with a hot empanada. It wasn’t quite as good as her Mama Estela’s, but it was definitely a step up from what was on offer at her old school. Maybe she could get used to this place….

Liv watched this new world go by all around her as she ate, cross-legged beneath the tree she’d told her cousin to meet her by. Kids moved in their little circles, talking loudly, laughing. Most of them coming into Grade Seven had come from the local primary school, and many knew each-other. Liv and Reggie would be starting out on the outside… and that was daunting. She could not be more grateful that she wasn’t taking this on alone.

Or… at least, she shouldn’t be. The lunchtime queue moved on, the gaggles of kids spread out, and still Reggie hadn’t returned.

Damn, constipated on your first day. Sucks to be you, Reggie.

Tentatively, Liv approached the boys’ bathroom and, having ascertained that no one was watching, slipped in. Her footsteps were unheard, drowned out by the loud, frantic breathing of young Reggie, slumped over the sink. Alarmed, Liv rushed over. Tears were spilling down his cheeks.

“Reggie… it’s okay,” she said gently. A little unsure, she reached out a hand to rub his back, and to her surprise, he didn’t flinch away. Slowly, he seemed to regain control of himself.

“Liv…,” Reggie panted. “You know you’re not meant to be in here; this is the guys’ room.”

“Hey! Like it’s my fault you didn’t take your anxiety attack into the unisex bathroom. That’s on you.” Hmph. Ungrateful, much?

Reggie scowled, and dragged his cousin out of the toilet block by her arm. He slumped down by the wall, and scooched over to encourage her to join him.

“You’re a pain in the arse.” He was still shaking.

“It’s been said, yeah.” Liv huddled a little closer. “You don’t need to worry, okay? You’re not going to have any trouble making friends. Did you see they’ve got a chess club, and a photography club as well? At least that’ll get you talking to people.”

“That’s,” Reggie said quietly, “not exactly what I’m worried about.” When Liv looked at him expectantly, he continued. “When I was in a room with all those kids, my head just went back to being at our old school… and what happened. I know this place is meant to be progressive and all that, but that doesn’t mean that everyone’s okay. What if I think I’ve made friends with someone, and they find out about Erin, and they make it a big thing, and then some arsehole finds out….”

“Man, you’re really spiraling,” Liv observed, not especially helpfully. She wasn’t exactly surprised by what was troubling her cousin; getting into a fight in defense of his young transgender sister had completely unseated Reggie from the comfortable life he’d had at the last school. It had changed everything.

“You would too, if she was your sister!”

“Probably. But I think you should at least give people a go. It sounds like they’re really strict on any kind of bullying against minorities. Swinging back hard in the opposite direction after that fascist dictatorship.”

“Those are some awfully big words for you to be throwing around there, Livia; watch you don’t hurt yourself….”

“Hey! I know my stuff!” Liv demanded. “Do you think my tio abuelo would have it any other way? But anyway, I’m right. All the people who didn’t fit in before have come to this part of the country. Probably a lot of the kids have parents who saw really horrible things in the war; they wouldn’t want to send them somewhere that was bad like before. My Mama ‘Stel gave the principal the grilling of her life, and I bet she hasn’t been the only one. People are gonna want to make sure their kids are being looked after.”

A smile quirked on Reggie’s face as he imagined his aunt on a school tour. “I bet Tia Estela left Principal Sanchez quivering under the desk.”

“Yeah… after what happened in the last school, there’s no way they’d let us go anywhere unless they were sure it was a place that treated people right.”

Reggie knew that much. But his parents, and even his fierce aunt, could not shield himself, his sisters and his cousin, from everything. He contemplated silently, grateful for the patient companionship.

“I guess,” he said at last, “if no one gave anyone else a chance to be anything but the worst, then we’d be pretty lonely.”

“Yup. We should at least give it a shot. And if it all goes in the crapper, I’ll sic my moms on the fools that mess with us. And the freaking yeti.”

Reggie couldn’t help but roll his eyes. That had always been Liv’s answer to everything. “Livia, I hate to break it to you, but if you go around threatening people with yetis, everyone’s gonna think you’ve got a screw loose. Except me; I know you’ve got a screw loose.”

“So damn rude,” Liv growled. “Anyway, you really should eat something. It probably won’t help you feeling crap and light-headed if you’ve got an empty stomach. They’ve got arepas!”

“...I could eat an arepa,” Reggie admitted. There was only so much a young boy of thirteen could control; he couldn’t wave a magic wand and guarantee that his little sister would never be hurt by cruel, ignorant words, but he could look after himself, so that he was the best him he could be-- and the best brother.

_____________________________

USA, 2028

“You did a great job, sweetheart,” Taylor said kindly as Reggie delicately placed his knife and fork atop his small plastic plate, signaling that he’d finished. Immediately afterwards, the little boy’s small hand had dropped to his side to get a reassuring touch of his teddy’s scruffy fur. “It was nice of Big Bear to join us for dinner. Does he like lasagna as much as you do?”

Reggie yawned widely as he nodded to his aunt. He hadn’t known it was possible for a kid to be so full of yawns, but living with newborn twins had shown him just how big a tired feeling could be. “Big Bear likes to watch from the floor.”

“That’s nice of him to let you have the whole plate for yourself. We’re gonna have plenty to bring over to your mommy and daddy for them to eat tomorrow.”

Lasagna had been Reggie’s choice. This whole sleepover was to be all about him; giving him a welcome break from the stresses of being a new big brother to two babies at once. He’d been on many, many sleepovers at Tia Estela and Auntie Taylor’s place before, but this time felt different. Reggie knew that at home, his parents were busy with their other children… and in his sensitive state, it took no time at all for him to miss them.

Twins, Reggie had come to realise, were very hard work. They cried a lot… and his mommy cried a lot, and his daddy cried a lot, and he cried a lot. All crying and no sleeping was not a whole lot of fun. Reggie wanted so badly to get away from the babies, but at the same time he longed to be with his parents. However much fun it was to take a break at his aunts’ place, the worry in him just wouldn’t go away.

Side-by-side, he and Liv changed into their pyjamas. Five-year-old Liv, true to form, nattered away to him the whole time. Babies, of course, were the subject of choice.

“My moms say we’re probably not gonna get another baby. Maybe ‘cos you have two I can borrow one if I get lonely. Do you have one that you like best?”

Reggie shrugged.

“Maybe next time your mom and dad will have three. You could have all these babies like a baby army, and if someone’s ever mean to you, you will have like a hundred poopy diapers you can throw at them. No one likes poop.”

“I don’t want lots more babies,” Reggie said softly. I want no more.

“If you don’t like babies, you can come and live with us forever!” Liv suggested brightly, oblivious the the wobble of her cousin’s bottom lip.

When Estela popped her head around the corner to check on the kids, Reggie was in tears and Liv looked totally bewildered.

“Mommy, Reggie’s crying…,” she pointed out, rather unnecessarily, for her mother had already scooped the little boy into a cuddle.

“It’s okay, mijo,” Estela soothed as she gently rocked her nephew in her arms. “It’s okay to cry. This has been really hard. You know what? You have been such a good boy for Mommy and Daddy.”

Liv, not quite sure what to do, but nothing if not well-meaning, draped herself over Reggie and patted him on the back. “There, there. It’s okay.”

Estela took Reggie into the lounge room for some cheer-up time, and Liv took Big Bear. Taylor quickly joined them, and pulled Reggie into her lap for a cuddle.

“Are you feeling a bit sad, sweetpea?”

Reggie nodded. “Uh-huh. I liked it better how things were before. Everything’s different.”

Taylor gently rubbed the little boy’s arms. “Change can be really tough. It’s like you’ve got to figure out how life works all over again!”

“Yeah, it’s not nice.”

“So, it’s okay to have a good cry. We will give you as many hugs and cuddles as you need.”

“Reggie,” Liv piped up, “do you wanna play a game? That could make you feel happy?”

Reggie sniffed and nodded again. Pleased-- she had this cheering-up business down-- Liv plonked herself in Estela’s lap and leaned forward to her cousin.

“Do you wanna play… ‘Klaawyi Chase’?”

Estela intervened quickly. “Maybe something with a little less running around. It’s nearly bedtime, Livi.”

“Okay. Ummmm…. ‘Duck, Duck, Goose’?”

“Livita.”

Well, you’re no fun. Liv gave a soft huff and pondered. By her best guess, ‘Hide and Seek’ would be a ‘no’ too… especially as last time she’d hid, no one managed to find her for a full hour.

“How about,” Taylor suggested, “we have a game of ‘Fortunately-Unfortunately’?”

“I wanna play that one!” Reggie said enthusiastically. “Can I start? Fortunately, we all had ice cream for dessert.”

Liv bounced in her mother’s lap. “Unfortunately, the ice cream was smelly-feet flavour!”

“Livi!” Taylor exclaimed, rolling her eyes. Why was everything smelly-feet with that kid? “Okay, then-- fortunately, Robin Dog likes smelly-feet, so he ate all the ice cream for us.”

“Oh!” Liv cried. “I’ve got a really good one!” Hehe, Robin with smelly-feet farts….

“Unfortunately,” said Estela. “It was Mama Estela’s turn, and Miss Livita just had to wait.”

Liv turned and poked her tongue out at her mom, making Reggie giggle. He snuggled in against his Auntie Taylor’s chest, his mind far away from worries about his new role as big brother to a pair of very needy twins.

“Fortunately,” he said, smiling, “Furball was visiting, and he made us some new ice cream with no yucky flavours in it.”

“Unfortunately….”

_________________________

San Trobida, September 2035

It was the last weekend before school started, and a lazy warm day at the Montoya house. Estela was up a tree, hammering boards into what would soon be a playhouse for the kids. She’d already finished up a two-storey-high climbing wall on the other side of the yard, which, at Liv’s request, would eventually be connected to the new tree-house by a zipline. Then, there’d be a slide, and monkey bars, and a tyre swing, and a fire pole. Basically, Estela had made it her mission to put together the best backyard playground on the Costa Libertad. Taylor, meanwhile, had been busying herself with a vegetable garden, with the help of a fascinated Erin and her parents, who turned out to be quite clever when it came to soil chemistry.

Liv had been up and down her new climbing wall like a yo-yo, leaving her dog, Robin, running rings around the base and all but tripping Reggie up as he tentatively took his first steps towards ascending.

“Are you coming?”

“I’m trying! Your dog’s getting in the way.”

Eventually, Reggie managed to clamber his way up, with a little help from Liv who hauled him over the top.

“See; piece of cake.”

Reggie couldn’t quite agree, and now that he was up twenty feet, he was already dreading his descent back to solid ground. Keen to distract himself from the dizzying height, he passed Liv the rope that he’d carried slung across his shoulders.

“What do you want me to do with it?” she demanded. “You’re meant to drop one end back down….”

“I’m not going near the edge!”

“Fine. Immy! You down there still?”

On the ground, and trying to wrestle a squeaky toy giraffe from Robin’s mouth, Immy craned her neck up.

“Yeah-- but you’re lucky I am, Reggie was so slow.”

“Careful. I was careful. You should bloody well try it sometime.”

Immy rolled her eyes dramatically, but nonetheless took the rope end that Liv had lowered to her, and ran it over to Estela so the distance could be measured.

“There we go,” Liv said, after having marked the rope at the edge of the platform. “Done. Reggie, if you’re just going to look down, you might as well be on the ground. Come on-- check out the view!”

Begrudgingly, Reggie sat up properly and looked around.

“Woah.” Maybe he could see the appeal of being up so high, even if he was immensely grateful for the safety rails around the platform. “You really can see everything up here.”

“Isn’t it cool?” Liv beamed as she pointed her cousin towards the paddock behind the yard. “You wanted to see our horse? Right in there at the side of the sheltery-shed thing….”

“Oh, wow! Okay, fine, I believe you now. I guess she was just hiding earlier.”

“That’s Miel. She’s like, older than dirt; Mama Estela used to ride her when she was a teenager.”

“And she’s still alive?”

“Just about. I think she’s uh… nearly thirty? Pretty ancient. Mom found out she was all on her own after her friend died, and she bought her so she could retire here with us. She’s kind of a bitey asshole. Uh, the horse-- not Mom.” Liv quickly amended, glancing to the in-progress tree-house. “So, we’re keeping her, and if she wants to make friends with the new horses we’re getting, she can, otherwise at least she can, like, neigh rude horse words at them from over the fence.”

Reggie snorted. Weirdo.

“I’m super excited. I know Mama ‘Stel was kind of nervous about us moving over here because of how things were when she was a kid-- but it actually… feels nice. I love our new house. I love cranky Miel. I love that we’re gonna get chickens, and maybe a new friend for Robin. Even the school seems pretty good.”

Swallowing his fear, Reggie joined Liv at the railing, dangling his legs over the side of the platform.

“Yeah, I think I like it here, too. Mom and Dad seem really happy; Dad says he can make more of a good difference in the world here than in America. So, I guess that’s got to be good. Did I tell you we’re going to put a pool in?”

“You might have mentioned it. When you’ve been whining about the heat, for the hundredth time.”

“It’s so humid!”

Liv giggled. It was like being back in the tropics of La Huerta, and to her, that felt right. Granted, it might have been nicer if they could just pop on over into a neighbouring alpine region that was inexplicably right next to the hot, sticky jungle, but she really loved it.

“Well,” Reggie said, “it’s going to be great. And it should be done by the time Quinn and Michelle come to visit.”

“Do we even know whose house they’re staying at yet?”

“It should be my place.” Reggie puffed out his chest, as if to emphasise the rightness of his point. “You’re definitely getting Jake and Sean and Mikey. You can’t take all the visitors. And besides… we’ll have a pool.”

That was hard to argue with. “It’s up to the adults anyway,” Liv conceded. In the end, it didn’t matter; she was going to make the most of having her La Huerta family around even if it meant camping out in Reggie’s back yard. “But, I will be a much better San Trobida tour guide than you. I’m still showing you around.”

Reggie hmphed, and Liv laughed.

“Come on, Reggie,” she said, dropping gracefully down the side of the wall and taking up hand-holds. “I’m getting hungry.”

It was at that point that Reggie made the sobering discovery that going down, was rather more intimidating than going up a sheer vertical surface.

“Um, Liv…,” he said quietly. “I, uh, don’t think I can do that.”

“Oh!” Liv responded. “Sorry, I forgot you’re new to this. Maybe you should’ve started smaller. But don’t worry, I’ll get you down….”

“Okay…,” he murmured, clearly not remotely convinced.

“Mom!” Liv hollered, all but making her poor cousin topple over the edge in surprise. “Reggie’s stuck!”

Reggie felt heat rise in his cheeks as his sisters, hanging out on the grass below the wall at the worst possible time, burst out laughing. Like they could even get up this high to begin with.

Up in the tree-house, Estela looked up and wiped off the paint from her hands. Rescuing kids from scrapes had pretty much become her specialty at this point; twelve years with Liv had seen to that. “I’m coming,” she called back.

“I’m not exactly stuck,” Reggie muttered defensively, as his Tia Estela easily scaled the climbing wall to join him and Liv, who’d already rejoined him to offer moral support. “If I really wanted to, I could climb down; I just feel I should practice climbing up a few more times before I try that.”

“You’ll get there,” Estela said kindly. As far as she was concerned, the fact that her nephew had a realistic view of his own capabilities was only a good thing. “I’ll have that zipline going in no time anyway, so you’ll have no hurry to work it out.”

With his aunt’s back offered to him, Reggie took the cue and wrapped his long arms around her neck, and his legs around her middle. Getting rescued by one of the team of protective grown-ups? Basically, the story of both his and Liv’s lives.

“Hang on, Regito,” Estela laughed.

____________________________

La Huerta, 2034

The frigid wind howled against the cabin door, and it took all of Liv and Reggie’s combined might to wrestle it closed. Both kids were panting heavily-- and shaking like leaves-- as they nervously stepped away.

“Thank god this little hut was here, really,” Liv heaved. “I dunno about you, but I’d rather be stranded in a snowstorm with walls around me.”

Reggie said nothing, and just shivered, wrapping his arms around his own torso. He’d wrapped up-- as if his parents would let him go wandering into the colder pockets of the island without a heap of layers-- but the snow had wet his gloves through, and a chill was now spreading through his body.

“Hey,” Liv said, “we should… we should get a fire going. You look like you’re halfway turned into a popsicle right now.”

As his cousin busied herself at the fireplace-- thank goodness there was some firewood left-- Reggie fiddled with his emergency phone. His heart sank. No signal. His mom and dad were going to be so worried when he and Liv never came home….

“Uh, Liv… I think the storm’s screwed up the reception here. It won’t let me phone Mom and Dad.”

Liv looked up, and for the first time, she looked truly fearful, her usual intrepid spirit extinguished in a flash. “They’re really gonna panic,” she said softly. She shuddered. If their parents came out looking for them, it meant walking out into a blizzard, and all the danger that came with it. If she could just tell her mothers that she was safe, that she and Reggie had shelter… they could wait out the storm. Anything could happen, anything….

“Are you okay, Livia?” Reggie asked, and he handed her a heavy blanket as he sat down cross-legged in front of her feebly burning fire. “You look kind of spaced-out.”

“Hng?”

“They’ll find us; it’ll be okay.”

“I don’t want them to come and find us,” Liv snapped. “I want them to stay where it’s safe. They could get hurt or, or worse because we were stupid enough not to turn around when the weather changed.” She placed a stick too roughly, and her firewood tower collapsed, extinguishing the flame. “For fuck’s sake!”

Reggie, wisely, stayed quiet, letting his cousin fix up the mess and get a new fire started without interference. He watched her with concern as her eyes welled. “Livia…?”

She huddled close to him, but for a long while, didn’t speak.

“Reggie,” she murmured at last, “something really horrible happened a couple of weeks ago. I didn’t want to talk about it with you, ‘cause… ‘cause I didn’t even want to think about it…. It just made me feel too bad. But, uh.... I was… I was playing in the sea with Mama Estela. Just like we always do. We were just goofing off. Then, um, I got all tangled up in those freaking weeds. They grabbed me and held me under.”

“That must have been so scary….”

“Of course, Mom got me out of there. B-but there was a sea-snake in there. It bit her. It happened so fast… I hardly even saw what happened, but she suddenly just... could hardly even get out of the water. I somehow managed to haul her up out the water, but she was all limp and… and I gave her the anti-venom, and she just started having some kind of fit.. Like her body was jerking around, and her mouth was all frothy.” She gasped through a sob. “Then she… she stopped breathing, completely.” Liv shuddered as the memory filled her mind, vivid as if it were yesterday. She could feel Reggie’s wide, horrified eyes upon her. “I screamed. I screamed for help. Mama Taylor was up the beach, she couldn’t hear me. S-so I did CPR. My hands were shaking so-- so bad. And all I could think was ‘I’m gonna screw this up. I’m gonna screw this up and my mom’s gonna die’.” Her voice cracked and she sputtered through hot tears that she wiped away with her arm. Before she knew it, Reggie had his arms around her and was holding her tight. “I don’t know how long it was,” she said. “It felt like forever, but it was probably only a few minutes. Then she started breathing and I just… I cried, and cried, and cried.”

Reggie gently rubbed Liv’s back, and it soothed her.

“I, uh, I guess I always thought Mama Estela was invincible. To me, she always was. There was nothing I couldn't do either, because she would always be there to protect me. It was so close, Reggie… it looked like she was gone.”

“I… didn’t know it was as bad as that. My dad told me she’d been bitten but…,” Reggie mumbled. “You must have been so scared. Have you… have you talked to your moms about it much?”

Liv sniffed, and wiped her face again. “Yeah. You know what my Mama Taylor is like; we’ve talked it through lots, I’ve told them how I’m feeling. But I haven’t… like… had a big cry since it happened.” Until now. Now, she just couldn’t seem to stop the tears from coming. Reggie didn’t seem to mind; he just sat with her, and rubbed her back, and told her it was okay.

After what seemed like an age, her tears slowed.

“It is going to be okay, you know?” Reggie said gently. “Obviously, they’re going to come out looking for us, but they’re smart. They’ll be prepared; just like your Mama Estela was with the anti-venom.”

“Yeah…,” Liv said, her voice small. You could be as prepared as you wanted, but sometimes the world managed to stay one step ahead. The storm outside was wild and furious, battering on the roof and walls… and it was frightening. Liv could only snuggle under her cousin’s arm, and trust that whatever search and rescue party was out there would come through.

The two kids huddled together beneath their blanket, speaking little, but making their mutual support known without words. Just the squeeze of a hand through the most blood-curdling howls of the wind, and the simple offer of presence.

Somehow, the creak of the door shoved open cut through the dull roar.

“Oh, thank goodness!”

“Dad!” Reggie leapt forward and flung his arms around his father, his face lighting up further when Grace followed in behind. “Mom!”

Grace put her shaking hands to her son’s face, gently sweeping hair from his eyes. “Darling, are you all right?” Then she pulled Liv into a fierce hug, and in a moment Aleister had his arms around all three of them. “We were so worried!”

Liv whimpered against Grace’s shoulder. “Are my moms out in the storm?” She knew the answer already.

“Yes, honey. They’re out searching for you. Don’t you stress, okay? We’ve got a flare to set off so they’ll know we found you here-- and Varyyn and Diego too.”

“Woah,” Liv murmured, “you got a whole search party out.”

There was a buzzing, and the flickering of blue light, then Iris materialised.

Reggie beamed. “Hey, Grandma! So, a ‘whole search party’ is pretty much correct.”

“I will say, being able to scan for nearby lifeforms is quite handy in situations like these.”

So, find my moms and Tio Diego. Liv hugged tighter to her Auntie Grace, with no words pleading for help.

“Oh, sweetheart,” Grace said gently, stroking Liv’s face, while Aleister saw to setting off the flare. “It’s going to be just fine. We’re not far from Elyys’tel; we all fanned out from there, so no one is going to be too deep into the mountains.”

That… actually made sense. It was enough, just enough to keep Liv a step above panic-mode. She headed back to the fireplace, but as her backside hit the floor, a guttural roar rocked the cabin, and she leapt back to her feet.

“What the--?”

“You two stay back!” Aleister ordered, his voice shaking. Why, oh why, did the children want to go gallivanting out in the frozen wilderness when there was a perfectly serviceable tropical paradise right outside their front door? He was going to be old before his time at this rate….

Grace, though, was already hauling open the door, to reveal the hulking figure of the Mountain Guardian.

A growl rumbling in her throat, Arktos loomed in the doorway, looking down at Grace with a questioning gaze.

“Hello…?” she said cautiously. The gigantic bear-like creature was generally reasonably friendly…. “Did we… did we disturb you with the flare?”

Arktos grumbled, her furry ears flicking with curiosity.

“Our friends are out there in the storm,” Grace continued, certain that the yeti would understand; her past experiences had only supported the fact that this creature was incredibly intelligent-- and benevolent. “The flare was to bring them to this cabin.”

With a soft huff, Arktos shuffled backwards, and all of a sudden, it seemed as though she was surrounded by a force-field… a bubble that the wind and blinding snow couldn’t penetrate.

Understanding, Grace turned to Iris. “I think we’re going hiking again-- with a little extra help this time. Al, you’ll stay and watch the kids?”

“I--I--” Aleister stuttered. “Well, of course. Stay close to the… the bear thing.” Scrambling a little, he pulled off his outer layer and offered it to her. “I won’t have you catching hypothermia.”

And Grace stepped into the snow, Iris hovering behind her, and found shelter in the yeti’s protective shield. She looked up at the beast, now rearing up onto colossal hind legs to scout for signs of nearby human activity. “Thank you, Arktos. I guess… I guess, you choose the direction, and we’ll start the search.”

The unusual trio headed out into the storm, and within moments, they were invisible for the wind thick with snow. Aleister, a look of dumbfoundment upon his face, closed the door, and again, the cabin was quiet.

“Damn. Auntie Grace is a fricking badass,” Liv breathed, face alight in awe.

Aleister, recovering from his wife’s shock exit quickly-- he’d seen her steely courage in action enough times to just about take it in his stride, nodded. “Indeed.” He brushed the last flakes of snow from his coat, and looked around the room. “Well, I don’t suppose the wait will pass any faster with us standing around here. Reggie, did we leave any board-games here last time?”

“Uh, looks like we’ve got ‘Scrabble’?”

Well, Liv thought, I don’t have a hope in hell against these people. Should’ve left ‘Twister’ here….

Reggie sat himself down in front of the crackling fire and started unpacking the box. “Hey, Livia-- team up with me?”

He was clearly still a little worried about her. If there was an opportunity to thrash her at something, Mr Pedantic-Always-Right would take it without fail. Or so Liv had believed.

She plonked down cross-legged beside him. “Yeah? Yeah, all right.”

The two kids exchanged a high five, and Liv couldn’t help but grin. You are going down, Uncle Al.

___________________________

San Trobida, September 2035

As the car pulled up the neatly paved pathway to Aleister and Grace’s house, Liv excitedly rolled down the window.

“Reginaaaaald!!!” she hollered.

“How,” Aleister wondered aloud, “can such a small person-- and the offspring of Estela and Diego of all people-- sound so eerily like a bloody foghorn?”

A beaming Reggie followed his father out the front door. He exchanged hugs with both his parents-- and his two little sisters-- and then rushed to join his cousin on the back seat.

“Are you ready to go, mijo?” Estela checked in, suppressing a laugh as Taylor all but did a contortion act to give her nephew a hug from the front seat.

He had Liv, didn’t he? So, basically, he was ready for anything.

The short drive to the school saw the return of those pesky jitters, and Reggie knew from the way his cousin jiggled her leg the whole way there that he was definitely not alone in that. The school ground, filled only with kids their own age when they’d been there for orientation, was swarming with adolescents of all sizes-- and just about all of them were bigger than Reggie and Liv.

With an awkward hug and a kiss to her mothers in the front of the car, Liv bit the bullet and, bulging backpack in hand, stepped out into a brave new world. There was only one thing for it; Reggie would just have to take the plunge. He swung his backpack over his shoulder, and followed after his cousin.

“Welp,” said Liv, “here goes nothing!”

Reggie gave a nervous laugh and playfully bashed Liv with his backpack, putting a reassuringly silly grin on her face.

We’ve got this.

_______________________

NOTES

Little Xiraana is @mauvecatfic's baby. Check out her stories; you won't regret it!

If you read 'A Ride to Remember', you might remember Miel. She's the very same horse.

Aaaaand, the incident Liv is recounting during the snowstorm is the one you can read from Estela's perspective in 'Teething Problems: Part Two'.

[cafedanslanuit]

day four   —   past lives

pairing: saeran x mc

warnings: character death, implied/referenced drug use, terminal illness

words: 1k

Saeran wets her lover’s lips with an ice cube. MC smiles at him weakly and wishes she had the energy to raise her hand and caress his cheek. His honey eyes and red hair look vibrant, a sharp contrast to the paleness of her skin. Before the ice cube melts completely, he puts it back to the plastic cup and dries his hands with the hem of his sweater.

“Can you promise me something?” she asks and he lifts his kind eyes to her.

“Anything,” Saeran says, taking her hand into his. He pretends not to notice how cold and bony they feel.

“Please lean on someone when I go,” she says, and the small smile that was on his lips immediately disappears. “I know it’s hard to ask for help. But you don’t have to go through it alone.”

“Don’t say those things,” he whispers, looking down at their intertwined hands.

“I don’t want to go knowing you’ll be alone. There’s this church near home where they give grief counseling. They have group meetings and that can help--”

“--I don’t like churches,” Saeran mutters. MC sighs, but that only provokes a coughing fit. He stands up and holds her fragile form so she doesn’t choke on air, and rubs her back soothingly until the coughs stop. He carefully lays her down on the hospital bed again and fixes the pillows behind her head.

“Thank you,” she whispers, her voice hoarse.

“It’s okay,” he replies, sitting back to the chair near to the bed. He raises an eyebrow as MC shakes her head.

“No. I mean thank you. For everything.”

Saeran’s eyes merge with hers, a harsh pang on his chest. He understood what she was talking about. He gives her a small shrug, trying to dismiss her, but it only makes her eyes water, accompanied by a small smile.

“You literally took me out of the streets,” she says softly, opening up her hand. He immediately takes it, a little shaken by the way she tries to squeeze his hand. “You helped me get up on my feet again. You loved me when I couldn’t love myself,” she remembers, a small cough following afterwards.

“You would have done the same thing for me,” Saeran replies, his voice breaking.

“Yeah,” MC sighs. She tries to squeeze his hand again but she doesn’t have any more strength left. “I would.”

A minute in silence goes by, where Saeran just tries to ignore the beeping sound from the machine. He knows one day they’re going to stop and he doesn’t think he’s ready for it. But the calm expression on her face lets him know MC has already made peace with what’s awaiting for her, even if she hasn’t lived past twenty years.

“Someday,” she starts, clearing her throat for a moment before continuing. “We’ll meet again. In another life.” A playful smile plays on her lips in complicity, her thumb rubbing over Saeran’s warm hand. “In a life where I didn’t have to live on the street when I was a kid. A life where you don’t have to sit beside a hospital bed every day. A life where we meet and immediately recognize each other, because our love is that strong.”

Tears start falling from Saeran’s eyes and he lets his head fall on the hospital bed, quiet sobs making his shoulders shake. MC’s heart breaks at the frustration of now being able to cradle him in her arms like he had done for her multiple times. From the first night she had spent at his place to the morning she got her diagnosis, he had always made sure she had a place between his arms. And now, when he needed it the most, she was too weak to embrace him.

“We will meet again, Sae. I promise,” she assures him (and herself), and sees him nod, his face hidden on the sheets. A few seconds later, a new coughing attack appears and Saeran wipes his tears to help her with it.

It was the last time he would help her with one.

----

Even when his eyes are not the same colour, she can still recognize him.

Saeran has entered her new room and starts explaining something about an app, but all she can do is look at him. His hair and eyes are different, but it’s him. Her whole body shivers at the clear red string in between them both and her eyes start watering immediately, memories of their past lives flooding her memories, filling her body with both warmth and excitement.

“Are-- are you okay?” he asks, worriedly. “Did they do something to you in the car? They were just supposed to bring you here, not--”

“It’s me,” she says, taking a step further.

Saeran takes one back.

“Yes, I brought you here. You said you were going to test this app--”

“--No,” she shakes her head. “It’s me. You… you remember me, right? It’s me, I-- I have been looking for you so much and--”

The emptiness in Saeran’s teal eyes dissipates her speech, his confused expression only making it clear he didn’t know what she was talking about. MC looks at him in silence and notices an unsettling feeling surrounding him. It’s not the clothes, neither is the hair or eyes. There’s something troubling going on in his mind, and she can’t pinpoint what it is.

“I’m going to leave you to get some rest. I’ll be back very soon,” Saeran excuses himself and leaves the bedroom.

Nothing can make MC move again, her eyes fixed on the closed door as the new and old memories crash against each other on her head. This time, she hasn’t been brought up on the streets (flashbacks of her shooting drugs up her arm make her squint) and she’s as healthy as she can be. So why does it feel like there’s something unsettling in the mansion he had been apparently living in? And who was the Saviour he insisted talking about? MC had more questions than answers.

Despite that, she took out her phone and sat on the bed, initializing the app she was told to use while staying over.

It was going to be okay after all.

It was her turn to save him.

[commajade]

i feel like the sea of hope casting team did a good job balancing the old soul vs youthful soul energy lee dongwook is grumpy grandpa but lee jiah who's older than him has vibrant young woman energy. kim goeun is p young but has calm quiet introverted vibes like lee dongwook and jinki they have old soul vibes if they were alone on a cast i feel like they would talk v little.

suhyun is kind of meant to be the emotional center of the show she's the only person who's worked with this director and production team before and has done shows like begin again before she's such a lively cute girl that plays well with older people and is adored wherever she goes and turns every setting into a family vibe i love her so much. the cast is such a weird collection of very famous people with such a big age range (22 to 51) and she's the youngest by 9 years it would've def felt like awkward colleagues if she wasn't such a bright person and so good at variety. everyone's roles in the show r based on what role they're taking as bar employees but also in relation to suhyun basically. yoon jongshin is uncle the 2 actresses r unni and dongwook and jinki r oppa. even rosé being the first guest was def because she's tight with suhyun cuz they're both yg suhyun was the first to greet her as rosé unni.

yoon jongshin is also meant to be the other tone setting cast member of the show he's the only one with extensive mc experience so he's supposed to keep the atmosphere upbeat and lively and his presence also sets the song choices more towards 90s and early 2000s korean classics which i rly appreciate cuz begin again had so many trendy newer songs cuz suhyun and henry were mains and i didn't like those songs as much.

jinki is yeongam/old man usually but he's super baby on this show he's v cute responsible oppa next door vibes vs the last time he was on a show like this with baek jongwon where he felt much older. as second youngest he's supposed to bring that shinee energy of youth and freshness but also him being chosen to do the investors conference with jiah shows that his public image is aging very naturally and that the show knows which of his qualities they wanna show.

anyway it's only been 1 episode and they didn't rly get into the main part of the show yet i'm v excited to see how things develop!!

[lovehugsandcandy]

bloom (ColtxMC, RoD)

A/N:  I almost did not finish this in time for Colt day and I would have been heartbroken. (also, alternate summary was “Colt has a plant” but GOD why would he ever have that, right?) @rodappreciationweek

Pairing: Colt x MC, ROD

Length: ~4500 words

Rating/Warnings: N*FW (It’s not explicit but there’s enough there that it’s probably N*FW. And swearing.)

Summary: Bloom where you’re planted.

It comes cheap, as cash deals often do. The walls are riddled with holes, gaping gunshots and massive dents inflicted in incidents even he doesn’t want the stories of; the roof is in shambles, caved to the floor in spots while leaks spread oily over the surface in others. But the land is secluded, safe, and, though it needs work, the foundation is sound. 

Colt has never been afraid of hard work, anyway.

He wanted to rebuild on the ashes of his father’s shop. It would have been apt, fitting, rebuilding the place that had been his legacy, passed down from ancestor to ancestor until it arrived at his feet, decaying and ruined. 

But it was too obvious. Every single time he drove by, he could see the undercover cops staking out the place, blindingly obvious behind the tinted windows of shiny SUVs. The drive also made him ill; when he caught sight of the charred sign and burnt out support beams, his vision would sway, hands clammy in leather gloves, heart racing a frenetic beat. The last time he sped through, he had needed to pull over, two blocks away, to spew stomach acid into a gutter.

He hadn’t gone back since.

But this new shop, this would work. He would make this work, rebuild here, in safety and relative anonymity, forging a new crew and avenging all he had lost.

A bitter voice cuts through his mental scheming. “There’s one more thing.”

“What?” He glares daggers at Smokey, the gruff man selling the place who earned his name from the trail of tobacco wafting behind him.

“The yard.” 

He follows Smokey out back, to where two wrecks sit on concrete that bleeds into dust at the edges, all surrounded by rusted-out barbed wire fencing. The Lambo would be worth something, if the engine was still there, but the MacLaren is destroyed, probably only worth scrap metal and parts.

“All this is yours, too. But I ain’t moving shit.”

Colt shrugs. “Okay.” He surveys the lot. Buried in the dust, he notices a flash of green, a leaf peeking out of the dirt caked against a metal post. “The hell’s that?” he asks, pointing over to where the small stem is, remarkably, making its way out of the dry earth, spouting where no living thing should ever be able to grow. It’s tiny, barely an inch, but it’s vibrant amid the washed out dust basin surrounding it.

“That plant thing? Fuck do I know.” Smokey sticks his hand in his overall pocket, fishing around until he grabs a pack of smokes. “Anyway, like I said, it’s all yours.”

Colt hands over the cash, takes the keys, and starts planning.

~~~~~

He plasters the walls himself, sledgehammer tearing through the plywood and insulation, dust and dirt raining down on him until he’s covered, paint chips grinding into his skin until every visible inch is full of grit and grime. He stands in the shower for an eternity, scalding water raining on muscles tense with exertion, physical labor quieting the screaming rage in his head.

He can’t do everything himself, gets a truckload of guys to shingle the roof, hires an electrician to ensure that the lifts work on the floor. He keeps his ear to the ground, always scouting new talent, people looking to make a break into his world. There’s a few, various tuners and losers, but no one he trusts. Not yet.

One thing he can do is rebuild, plan, and deal with that stupid plant. He almost ignored it, figuring it would wither away on its own, but he has begrudging respect for something thriving in an inhospitable environment. The guy at the nursery thought it looked like a melon, handing over some instructions and a bag of soil that Colt balanced on his lap as the bike wove through city streets. It’s stupid, utterly ridiculous, but he puts the soil down, anyway. Maybe the melon just needs a chance.

By August, Mona’s out, sprung from jail by some hotshot lawyer and begrudging LAPD acknowledgement of the corruption in the force. He is under the bike when she saunters through the bay doors, a smirk on her face and swagger in her step. She makes a snide comment about his transmission, then wanders into the break room to make popcorn.

He stares after her for a full minute, completely befuddled, but finally shrugs and wanders out back to water the stupid melon.

He wonders if this is his life now.

~~~~~

Colt looks closer, dropping to his knees in a cloud of dust to peer incredulously at the ground beneath him. Yesterday, there had been only one green sprout, the result of careful tending and effort, somehow reaching burgeoning leaves through the fencing slats to chase the sun. But now, there are two, as an evil-looking clover emerges through the soil carefully packed against the fence. How the fuck did a weed grow here? Hell, he has no idea how the fucking melon was growing here, pushing through the dust that caked the ground, but he would be damned if he let a fucking weed ruin his work.

He’s just digging his fingers into the dirt, trying to get every offending root, when footsteps thud behind him. 

“What the hell are you doing?” Mona asks, skeptically.

“Getting this fucking thing-”

“What is that?”

“A weed.” He drops the invader, and it scatters in the wind, dancing through the fencing.

“No…” She hesitates, sounding puzzled, and he squints at her profile in the sunlight, waiting. “The plant thing down there.”

“Guy at the store said he thinks it’s a melon.”

She blinks. “You’re growing a melon.” He doesn’t know what to make of her tone, half accusatory, half mocking, so he only shrugs, shoving his hands in his pockets. Finally, she snorts. “It might be nice for you.”

“What?”

“Might be nice for you to actually make something, instead of fucking shit up all the time.”

He glares daggers at her retreating back before inspecting the stupid green stem again. It might be his imagination, but it already looks stronger, as if culling the invading weed had already strengthened its roots. 

Maybe the fucking thing would thrive if its enemies were removed.

~~~~~~

In October, Ximena makes her way through the front door, a smile spreading across her face and a duffel bag slung over her shoulder. He’s speechless as she lifts him into a giant hug, his ribs creaking in protest.

“Heard things were getting better around here, sweetie.” Colt feels a bashful flush heat his cheeks at the familiar nickname, but she’s not wrong. He and Mona had just swiped a couple of Sodertaljes for a half a million just last week, and he’s already scheming to snatch two more. The crew is making a name for itself; he’s rebuilding. “Where’s Mona?”

“Back room,” he answers, watching X stroll away in absolute confusion before he wanders to the yard. Apparently, he can’t control the comings and goings of the dregs of his father’s crew.

But maybe he can control the fucking plant.

~~~~~

Ellie doesn’t come home for Thanksgiving. 

He knew she wouldn’t. It’s his business to know things, the location of priceless cars, the name of the rival crew who’s been running jobs in the Hills. Collecting tidbits of information and splicing them into a bigger picture is one of those skills that keeps the crew afloat and him alive.

But knowing things about her (the spot at the curve of her shoulder that makes her cry out, exactly how much pressure to use where she’s so sensitive, hell, even the stupid, sappy shit like how she likes her coffee, all locked away deep in his brain), well, that’s far from business.

He knows her house (third from the corner with the busted up cruiser in the drive) and he would recognize her car anywhere, even just a flash of it.

She stays at school for Thanksgiving.

But she comes home for Winter Break. He drives by one morning (three am after a successful job, when the roar of adrenaline in his blood makes him desperately miss the one person he wants by his side) and it’s there, vivid pink reflecting the streetlights. He has to remind himself to fucking breathe.

The next afternoon, groggy after tossing and turning all fucking night, he can’t decide when he should just show up at her house and how to avoid the detective if he did. 

He actually doesn’t need to decide. 

“Why didn’t you rebuild the old shop?”

He spins, splashing the coffee in a sticky mess over concrete (one cream, two sugars, far too sweet to be anything more than a reminder). “What-” The smile on her face is playful, teasing, and his fingers itch to run through her hair. “How did you…?”

“You’re not the only one who has friends in low places.” She turns at the echoing footsteps and is soon swept into hugs and smiles and the dull banter of catching up. 

But after, after he steals her away, upstairs to his loft, coaxing sugar sweet sounds from her lips with the rapaciousness of a man denied for far too long, he ensures that she remembers exactly who she came to the shop to see. 

When he’s exhausted, temporarily sated yet only waiting until the next burst of energy for round two, he traces random designs down her bare back. “You ready to come back, yet?”

“Colt…”

“Hey, I know you’re too good for school. Just wondering if you know it yet.”

She spins in his arms; when her bare skin glances across his chest, he tightens his fingers, still curled into her back. “Jesus, Colt, you haven’t changed at all.”

“Did you expect me to?”

“Your dad…” His nails dig into her back at the mention; her wince makes him drop his hand to the sheets. She continues, “Your dad wanted more than this. For you.”

“What about what I want?”

“Well, what about what I want?”

He blinks, pulling his arm back. “The fuck? You’re doing what you want across the fucking country.” He watches her stand and storm about the room, pulling on clothes, swiping at her eyes. “Ellie, come on-”

“This was a mistake.”

He sits up, crossing his arms over his bare chest to fix her with his darkest glare. “What the hell does that-“

“I should have…” She trails off and, for a moment, he sees the glimmer of indecision in her eyes. “I made my choice. I’m going back to school and I can’t…” Her voice wavers and she doesn’t even finish the sentence.

When the door slams, he flops against the bed, worn and wilting. 

~~~~~

Winter brings the first fruit. 

One of the many benefits to living in Southern California is the weather, where each sunny day is a picture-perfect copy of the last. So, even though it’s February, Ximena watches as he carefully cuts the fruit from the vine and stands, cradling it in one arm. “Huh,” she says, shooting him a critical eye. “It’s kinda like that saying: bloom where you’re planted.”

“Huh?”

“The saying… bloom where you’re planted? It kinda means… um….“ Her hands flail about before settling across her chest. “Work with what you’ve got? Plants need fertile soil and plenty of water and sunlight. That plant was given this dusty piece of shit lot owned by a fledgling crew. But even though these aren’t really the best conditions, it’s still blooming anyway. Even though the circumstances aren’t the best, you need to use your talents where you are, not think about what could have been.”

He runs the words through his head, callused fingertips tracing the dappled skin of the melon, trying not to think of different circumstances. “Christ, X.” He shakes his head ruefully. “Its just a fucking plant.” He turns and heads through the shop, careful not to splatter fruit on the concrete, her heavy footsteps close behind. 

Mona is already in the break room, lazing about the table, and he gingerly cuts into the skin, handing her and Ximena a pale orange slice.

“Is it hygienic to cut it with that knife?” X asks, teasingly, but takes the proffered piece, regardless. 

“Shut up and try it.”

He waits as they bring it to their mouths, holding his breath as each takes a tentative bite. Finally, Ximena breaks the silence, wrinkling her nose. “It’s kind of… bitter.”

“You mean it’s fucking awful!” Mona spits the blob of flesh into a napkin, disgust curling her lip, and she wipes at her tongue rapidly.

He glares at them steadily but can’t disagree once he cuts his own piece. It tastes wrong, flesh too chewy, too tart on his tongue. His eyes water as he swallows it down; he closes the switchblade and chucks the entire melon into the trash.

Maybe this whole thing is a fucking waste of time. 

Maybe nothing would ever bloom at this shop.

~~~~~

Winter also brings Toby. 

Colt hears the engine roar from the loft and, when he opens the bay door, he gapes at the blaze before him, raging from the hood of a modded-up import.

“It’s not supposed to do that.” Toby leaps from the driver’s seat, grabbing the fire extinguisher that he apparently keeps conveniently under the passenger seat.

“No shit.”

“I think I dialed the ignition force up a little too high, but with a couple of modifications-”

“What are you doing here?”

Toby’s jaw drops. “What do you mean? I heard you were building a new crew.”

“Yeah?”

“Well, you suck at the delicate modifications needed to create the next generation of revolutionary sports cars, and you also wouldn’t know your way around surveillance technology if it bit you in the ass and bought you a milkshake afterwards.”

What the... Awkward phrasing aside, he’s not wrong. “What the fuck. Is everyone just gonna waltz right in and…” Colt trails off as Toby walks away, tripping over nothing on his way down the hall.

The cheer when he strolls into the break room is loud, raucous. Colt wonders when his shop became the thrift stop for local rejects.

He wonders why he does nothing about it.

~~~~~

“I’ve heard they like it when you play music for them.”

Colt looks up. “The fuck?!?”

Toby peers down at where he is carefully packing more soil around the base of the stem. “The plants,” he explains, eyes blinking wide behind his thick lenses. “I think they like music. Do you wanna borrow one of my German trance electronica CDs?”

“God, no,” Colt snarls, standing and wiping dirt on his jeans before turning heel, storming back into the shop.

After watching for two days (weren’t there supposed to be flowers sprouting on this fucking thing?), he finally buys a wireless speaker, hiding it next to the fence. At first, he tries classical; based on a quick internet search, soothing orchestra is recommended. However, the strings gnaw on his ears and, even worse, the plant still looks like shit. 

Once he’s annoyed with that prissy crap, he flips to music he likes and is amazed when the furled leaves seemed to get greener and greener. Colt can just make out 2pac as he stares in amazement at the plant. Will I see the penitentiary or will I stay free? He shakes his head and walks away; he doesn’t know shit about plants.

~~~~~

She comes back for Spring Break, too. He doesn’t even need to drive by her house; she posts a picture at LAX, beaming grin filling his phone screen as she poses at arrivals.

He waits, doing petty jobs and minor repairs, anything to keep his hands occupied, but it doesn’t stop his mind from racing. Finally, on the fourth day, soft footsteps edge onto the shop floor. He tries to keep his eyes from widening; based on her smirk, he doesn’t succeed. 

He doesn’t even let her speak, crossing the floor in five steps, arm on her wrist, dragging her upstairs so he can push her against the door.

“I’m not gonna apologize.” He says it into her mouth, words rushed to shorten the time before her lips were on his.

“I would never expect you to.”

“You know how important this is to me.” Her fingers curl in his jacket as he rolls his hips.

“I know,” she moans as his lips slide down her neck. “I just want… you could be so much more than this. I don’t want you to destroy yourself.”

He makes his way back up to kiss her ear. “Fuck, Ellie.” His voice is low with promise and she shivers at every word. “I’m going to destroy you.”

She laughs joyful and clear as they fall into bed, and he reacquaints himself with the curve of her shoulder, the soft skin of her thigh. The dirt under his nails leaves streaks of grit down her back, over her ass, and he scrubs her clean in the shower, catching the droplets of water as they fall from her lips.

“How long are you staying this time?”

She’s in a towel, water still dripping from the pile of hair at her nape, skin glowing from being scrubbed clean. Colt had never seen anything so radiant. “I’m home until Sunday.”

“Not what I was asking.”

“Tonight?” She bites her lips, eyes wide on his.

“I’ll take tonight.” He leans over to pull on the fabric, dropping the towel to the floor. Beaming, she squeals as he pulls her back into bed. If he only had tonight, he was gonna make it fucking worth it.

~~~~~

They try the melon again. It’s May and the days are getting longer; snooty colleges would soon let underclassmen fly home for the summer.

He tries not to think about it.

He cuts through the fruit, three pairs of eager eyes around him, and hands out crescents, his leg bouncing under the table as he waits and watches the crew take hesitant bites.

“It’s…” Mona chews thoughtfully. “It’s not bad.”

Ximena smiles. “It is definitely better than last time. It’s not very sweet, but at least it’s not terrible.”

“Thanks,” he replies dryly.

“What do you guys mean?” The words are hard to comprehend over the entire wedge that Toby has crammed into his mouth. “This is incredible!”

Colt takes a tentative bite. It definitely wasn’t as bad as last time, the sourness of the last attempt now faded into an inoffensive tartness. The flesh is soft against his tongue, but it’s not sweet; unlike the fruit from the store, it is bland, inoffensive, boring.

At least it’s edible, a marked improvement from when the first fruit sprung from the barren soil.

Only Toby takes another piece, but Colt counts it as a win.

~~~~~

The soil disappears easily, lather carrying it down the drain as if it were never there. The grease is more difficult, solvents and scrubbing not enough to take everything off, and he can see the dark lines coating his skin for days, until they are as much a part of him as the freckles dotting his nose and the scar under his rib cage.

He carries other dirt with him, foul and dark, and no amount of scrubbing will ever make him clean.

~~~~~

He almost thinks she won’t come back, not this time, that Spring Break was a bittersweet goodbye and her full year away has convinced her that her new life is a better fit, holding more promise than a crew still finding its legs and growing into its reputation. He fears her time in the books may have taught her she belongs in musty libraries and dim corridors, soaking up knowledge like she soaked up gearshifts and speed, and that formulas and theories would replace the itch to drive fast and take chances.

But he’s wrong.

The door opening on the shop floor barely twinges his consciousness, and the increased chatter doesn’t stir him either. He just rolls over, burrowing his face into the pillow.

But the hands sliding down his bare back definitely jar him awake and he whirls, brain working far slower than his limbs, and it takes a minute to come to grips with the figure in front of him. When he finally realizes that she isn’t some dream-induced phantom but is real, a corporeal figure perched over him, morning sunlight glancing off her hair and fingers solid at his back, well, then he moves, quickly pulling her down before she can change her mind, relearning how she cries out and moans his name.

After, her body drapes over his, slick skin on slick skin, and his fingers trace their way up her back, her forearms; he’s comparing the real Ellie in his arms with that of memories and dreams and his mental mapping is disturbed when her lips forms words, hot against his chest. “Have you ever gotten something you wanted and realized that you might not want it anymore?”

The question makes him pause; he can think of a million things he’s wanted, desperately, abject need coursing through his veins and making him desperate to destroy all obstacles.

But he can think of only one he has actually gotten. He pulls her close, heart simmering at the question, and drags needy lips up the bare skin of her shoulder, etching tongue and teeth in a haphazard line that only stops behind her ear, when the moan flows through her chest and vibrates against his skin. “I’ve gotten things I wanted and realized that I wanted them even more.”

Her answering smile glows in the sunlight and, yet again, he finds himself again lost to the world of sensation and pleasure and the utter rightness of her body under his.

When she sits up in bed, hours later, he is deeply satisfied when her voice again rasps over his name; he is so distracted by imagining all the things he can do that will make her again dip the vowel, slow and sexy, tongue sliding over the single syllable desperately, that he misses the question. “Wha-?”

“Show me around.”

He narrows his eyes. “You’ve been here before.”

“Yeah, but...” She tilts her shoulder and tugs the sheets tighter around bare skin; Colt pulls his eyes from mapping the dark marks lining her shoulder and focuses on her words. “I only really saw the break room and your bedroom.”

“The only important spots here.”

She huffs a sigh. “Show me around?”

“Fine, fine.” He trudges out of bed, dressing slower than normal since his eyes won’t stop cutting to her, jealously watching her jeans slide up to cover the teeth marks on her thigh. If she was just going to skip off again, he was going to do his damnedest to memorize the sight of her perched on his bed, glowing in the daylight.

“Ready?” she prods.

He rolls his eyes, throwing on his t-shirt and walking out of the room, taking the stairs twice at a time, hand vaguely waving at the shop floor as he saunters through. “Hydraulic lift. Air compressor. Impact wrench. The piece of shit that Toby swore he could get running two months ago, but the engine still won’t fucking turn over.” He turns to see her trailing careful fingertips over a toolbox. “Can we go back upstairs?”

“Is it like your dad’s shop?”

He starts. Usually he bristles when people mention Pop, fury and regret and a deep need to prove himself just below his skin; however, there is only curiosity brimming in her eyes, a hint of concern below the surface. He has nothing left to prove to her. “What?”

“I dunno. Does it have everything the old shop did?”

He shrugs. “Mostly. There’s more space, so I added in another lift. We also have the lot, so Tony has been collecting more pieces of shit that he swears will be vintage collectors one day.”

“There’s a lot?”

“Hm?” He eyes the distance between them and the stairs, probably 50 feet, but he could get Ellie back there and up to the loft in seconds if he were properly motivated. “Yeah, out back.”

“Can I see?”

Internally, he groans but nods, leading her out the back door and into the sun. It’s the same dust pit as normal, and he casts an unimpressed eye around the heaps of metal. However, Ellie looks enraptured, peering around the wrecks, walking the perimeter in slow, careful steps. 

“Wow, it’s huge.” He shrugs; he feels the tips of his ears reddening and tries to fight it, but it’s a lost cause when she gazes at him like that. “Wait…” She pauses, eyes falling to the ground. “What’s that?”

“What?”

She kneels to the ground, hovering over the dust to stroke careful fingers over the melon. “This.”

“A stupid plant.”

“A plant?” She blinks up at him, squinting against the midday sun, and this time he can’t suppress the huff.

“Yeah, it’s a stupid melon thing. It was here when I bought the place and I’ve been trying to actually get something decent, but it’s fucking pointless.” She stares at him so long he fidgets, rocking back on his heels. “We’ve tried it a couple times, but it never tastes good. And I looked up when to water it and the guy at the shop blathered on about soil and sunlight, but it never seems to come out right.”

She falls silent again, and he stuffs his hands in his pocket, waiting until she finally asks, “You… you did this?”

He gapes. He did everything in this fucking place, from installing the bay doors to filling the tool chests to even putting together the bed she had just fallen apart in. “Yeah?”

“Huh,” she murmurs, eyes falling on him as if she was just seeing him for the first time.

He rocks back on his heels. “It’s just a stupid fucking plant.”

“I just… I never expected… you...” She stares at him, piercingly, as if she could see right through him, deep inside his brain to his deepest thoughts and desires and fears, deep to where she had already twisted tendrils inside him that he could never prune. “I thought you were gonna burn yourself down.”

“And I said we were both gonna be great.”

She bites her lip, considering, and Colt has the dawning realization that can actually, finally get what he wants. “When are you supposed to get fruit?” she asks and his heart skips a beat.

“Well…” He calculates days in his head. “It flowered a week ago, so I dunno, three more weeks? A month?” A smile spreads, slow and sure across her face, and Colt realizes that things will be different. “Why?” He smiles back. It’s impossible not to break into a grin when she looks at him like that, like he answered a question she never asked. “You gonna stick around?”

~~~~~

And when they finally cut into the melon, a week after he built two more things (a desk and a dresser, painted in such an audacious shade of pink that he smirks every time he walks into their room), he licks the juice dripping from the corner of her mouth, sucking the sweetness and laughter onto his tongue. It tastes amazing. It tastes like home.

.

Tags:

Perma @desireepow--1986 @leelee10898 @emichelle @client-327 @choicesgremlin @brightpinkpeppercorn @thequeenofcronuts @lilyofchoices @choicesarehard @desireepow-1986

ROD  @mskaneko @lovemychoices @burnsoslow @troublemakerinspace @omgjasminesimone

Colt

@deimosensblog  @alegria1580   @thefarrari @moonlit-girl-wonder @going-down-downtown@soniadotalves@jolietmaraud @flowerpowell@poeticscolt @zaira-oh-zaira @akrenich @sibella-plays-choices  @maxwellsquidsuit  @liamzigmichael4ever @octobereighth @i-only-signed-up-for-fanfiction @theeccentricbibliophile @dancingboba @tempesrature

RoDAW @ritachacha

[wlw-lovestruck-fiction]

Vivienne (with or without the rest of the poppy) coming to MC’s high school reunion (with or without thieving shenanigans)

Written by Anonymous

“Are you ready baby?” MC calls out from the living room as she slips into her familiar leather jacket.

Vivienne steps out of her room, tucking away Jett’s mini bombs into her cape as she gives MC a quick kiss on the cheek

“Yes love” she says, making final adjustments to her makeup in the mirror. Vivienne appeared entirely poised and serene as an ocean to any other onlooker, but MC noticed how she rubbed the well worn spot on her snake ring and how her lip caught between her teeth as Vivienne’s nervousness bubbled through the cracks in her mask. Although this heist had run far more smoothly than some of their other adventures, the prospect of meeting MC’s friend Claudia for the first time had Vivienne’s heart pounding like a battle drum. At least she knew what to do when facing down a barrel of a gun or sweet talking a suspicious mark, she’d never met any of her previous partner’s friends before – at least not if they weren’t helping Vivienne rob or being robbed by Vivienne. Seeing her girlfriend was still nervous despite her reassurances, MC wraps her arms around Vivienne’s waist, giving her a gentle kiss. “You have nothing to worry about. Claudia will love you, baby” MC says, as Vivienne burrows her face deeper into the hollow of MC’s shoulder, letting out a breath she had been holding.

Although MC hadn’t been particularly concerned with attending her high school reunion initially, outside the excuse to see Claudia, upon confirming The Storm on the Sea of Galilee was being held in an unassuming community centre next door awaiting to swap hands, MC’s interests were piqued to say the least. She and Vivienne had just acquired a quaint, new home in Amsterdam and had been wondering what to fill the space above the fireplace with. Upon hearing about the whereabouts of this long-lost piece of history she knew she had to have it.

As they walk up to the old red brick building, Vivienne subtly sidles closer to MC, looping their arms together. “Ready?” MC asks, gently squeezing Vivienne’s hand. “Mmhmm” Vivienne replies, mustering up a smile. Although she was a lot less nervous now that she could see the task ahead of her, MC could still sense how tense Vivienne was – like a coiled spring, full of energy just waiting to be released.

Upon entering the old gymnasium that’d been done up with “Welcome Back!” banners which MC is certain has been used for nearly every reunion the school had seen, Claudia rushes up to her enveloping her in a tight hug “It’s so good to see you girl” Claudia says, before turning her attention to Vivienne, raising a knowing eyebrow at MC, a teasing smile tugging at the corners of her lips “And who’s the arm candy?”

“Hi, I’m Vivienne, MC’s girlfriend. You must be Claudia, it’s a pleasure to meet you” Viv replies, extending a hand towards Claudia, which she accepts enthusiastically.

“Oh, this is wonderful! I’ve been dying to meet the infamous Vivienne Tang MC’s been telling me all about – all good things, however, she did fail to mention her girlfriend had such a knack for fashion. I have to know where you got that cape” she says, looping her arm with a much more relaxed Vivienne who starts speaking on how glad she is to meet someone who can appreciate a good cape.

After spending the first half of the reunion catching up with old friends and introducing her amazing girlfriend, MC takes a seat alongside Vivienne to hear an amazing guest speaker the school miraculously managed to secure last minute just as their previously booked speaker cancelled abruptly after winning an all-expenses paid holiday from a competition they’re not quite sure they even entered. The lights dim as the highly commended art critic Gabriel Chevalier begins his speech, and Vivienne and MC sneak out of the gymnasium hand in hand.

“Remy’ll keep them distracted for now. Take the flight of stairs to the left and go to the third classroom to the right. You’ll have to wait for our little speaker glitch to set off the explosives. I’ll give you the cue, though I doubt you’ll miss it” Zoe crackles in their earpieces as they run down the corridor.

Breaking into a brightly decorated classroom, Vivienne pulls out Jett’s more silent bombs from her cape for her and MC to place along a wall with a vibrant display depicting a luxurious and hedonistic scene from one of Gatsby’s parties. “Sorry, Ms Yasmin” MC murmurs as she sets the final explosive in place.

“Was she your teacher?” Vivienne asks, slipping onto a desk as they wait.

“Best English lit teacher I had, she always let me help out with the displays.”

“Ooo, you must have some good stories from high school” Vivienne says, pulling MC closer to her.

“Actually, I had my first kiss in here – Alex Caron, I think his name was. We were both helping out after school with the display and Ms Yasmin had slipped outside to grab more supplies.”

“Oh, très scandal, ma chéri” Vivienne quips, looping her arms around MC’s waist and leaning down to kiss her softly, gentle amusement crinkling her eyes as they break apart.

A moment later a large screech of static reverberates through the room and Zoe chimes in through the earpiece “Now!”

The explosives go off veiled by the distraction and MC and Viv run into the desolate, neighbouring building. Following Zoe’s instructions, they reach and extract the painting in record time.

As each member of the Poppy returns to their newly set up headquarters in Florida, wine and champagne flow freely as the infamous Gilded Poppy celebrate another job well done.

[goldenarcana]

HEART OF THORNS /// VAMPIREFEMALE!MC X NADIA /// THE ARCANA 🔮♠️ /// PART ONE OF TWO

REQUEST: Vampire!MC x Nadia. The only way to keep you dead and unrisen for your murderous crimes is so your lover keeps you locked away in a coffin, a beautiful rose (the symbol of love) placed atop of it. This idea actually came from @afsaneh-jaan Tumblr, requested by a loyal follower. Beware of heavy angst, depression and a sprinkle of smut. 8554 words. Two parts.

NADIA SATRINAVA had felt a part of herself withering away from the very second she stepped into the bathing room, her reflection groundbreaking but unsurprising all the same. The smell of coppery blood coursed deep within the air of the ancient palace, a part of her becoming so used to the smell of dark, harrowing magic that she somehow had lost the power to even react to the ghostly scent. Yet then again these days Nadia could hardly stomach a simple conversation. She had made sure of that.

And still there was that large part of her - the part that she refused to let go of and still clung on to with the tighter fist - that screamed out into the void that she couldn't care less. That all those months together were somehow worth it - somehow making her run forward to something meaningful that she couldn't give up on and pushing her back to experience that crashing hurt again.

And again.

And again.

A shiver ran across the span of her ribcage as she felt her memories filtering back to reality, begging to push her over the edge as she gripped the marble counter, her bloodshot scarlet eyes wide as she took in her reflection. Oh Nadia, a voice from the past seemed to consume her thoughts like a broken tape-recorder, what have you done to yourself? The voice was cruel with a twist of crestfallen honesty; a hint of humanity amoung the sharpest of thorns. Tremors instantly shot through Nadia's body at the reminder of who she was tied to, of how they threatened to shatter and break her all over again. Each rise of the sun and fall of the moon signaled this pattern: a pattern of fighting the remaining piece of what was left, of an immortal death that somehow could never be replaced. Not in the shattered pieces of Nadia's heart; never there. Would she ever be whole again?

Let me out, the voice filled her thoughts again, loud as the crashing waves upon the furious oceans in Prakra and yet calm as the quiet of the bathing room. I'm waiting. How is it that she sounded so youthful, so innocent - when she knew they were anything but? Sobs raked through the countess, her britle pink curls tickling the nape of her neck as she furiously dragged her hand through the hair, doing anything and everything to distract herself to giving in. Hot tears jolted down her face as she doubled over, resisting the urge to run down the palace and reverse the hell she put to rest. Please. The plea broke her heart, stabbing her in the ribs and taking her soul. I will be good.

Good. A word that should never have found a way to their vocabulary. She was doing everything to resist the urge, to ignore ignore ignore.

Nadia hugged her arms around her abdomen, realizing then how skinny she had become in comparison to all those months together. Her usually angular face was sharper than swords, her cheeks hollow and undereyes bruised violently in the crevice to fill a ghastly violet. Her arms were the ghosts of sticks and her stomach was thin. Even standing for this long - however long time would allow that voice to consume her - was taxing to no end. But above all the hurt, above all the physical trauma these last two months had pushed upon her, nothing felt heavier than her heart - strangling in her chest.

It was all too much - day in and day out of living in a world where they seized to exist. Where Nadia would have to continually act as if those days, those weeks and months with them were just a fantasy of her ever-ending imagination. Where even Vesuvia was paying the price for all the death her vampire mate had caused, the losses of women, men and children hanging so far into the air that it choked Nadia with every breath. She had failed them. Failed her subjects. Failed the act of duty and promise to honor. She had no power. Had no power to keep going. An eternal star was blinking out - threatening to darken. But in every reality, in every world - there was absolutely no way that she could hate her. That although she had shot her down a hole of whisking away to Death, draining her will to keep moving forward and taking her once unbreakable spirit, she. Could. Not. Hate. Her.

And that broke her.

Noddy.

And that word - that nickname - was her undoing. Her breaking point. She shattered.

Nadia screamed, anguish filling the air and rippling out of her until her voice was hoarse and the crashing waves of that voice turned to ice, frozen in her conscious as it seemed to snap to the remaining tethers of the countess's sanity. Nadia cried out - her voice breaking as the bathing room was filled with her screams.

"Just get out of my head!" She fell to the pristine creme white tiles of the floor, hugging her thighs to her face as she rocked back and forth, back and forth until the empty contents of her gut rose to her throat. "GO AWAY!" Sobs tore through her throat, her mind everywhere but where it was supposed to be. Her heart was racing, a painful gallop matching her anguished thoughts. She allowed her head to gently hit the wall beside her, resting there as she cried silently.

"Please." She pleaded, her tone barely above a whisper, nearly inaudible. Every syllable and word ached low in her throat. "Just go away."

Liar. Stupid, naive liar. She knew, they knew, the entire world knew she wanted anything but that.

And with that - under the stress of the her panic attack and the undying entity in both her heart and thoughts, Nadia succumbed to the endless black engulfing her.

~♡~

/// ONE YEAR AGO \\\

THE PALACE of Vesuvia was bustling with an uncomparable energy, the essence of blissful magic coating the air along with the electricity that came with the excited occupants of the kingdom. Their hearts danced and sung - your senses filled with the mortality enveloping you on the dancefloor. Your own unbeating pulse was practically screaming, the blood lust hugging painfully around your throat as you danced and mingled with anybody who dared to step in the face of danger. Some sneered at your invite to get entangled in an elegant waltz, others more than ecstatic to move darefully with you to a twisted beat.

You had heard of how life changing Vesuvia's balls and parties had been when Count Lucio was alive, but you had never imagined in your three hundred years of life for it to be quite like this.

The young man that was dancing against you wistfully guided his hands into your vibrant hair, coming so close to you that you could feel his pulse hammering against the inside of his throat. Handsome, bold and...delicious. It took every fiber of your immortal being not to take a bite, despite the strong demand to do so. You were stunning - the picture of beauty. It was both a blessing and a curse. Gorgeous on the outside, but the monster lurking beneath would only show its fangs when provoked. And you wondered, wondered while the blonde-haired man brought his hand to rest low against your skilled hips, if anyone could see the twinge of monster hiding beneath your skin. Even in the eyes of an angel.

His parted lips rose to kiss your unbeating neck, and you smirked, hand rising to rest on his hammering heart. Your throat tightened with insatiable hunger, your face draining as you willed everything inside of you to calm. You had to feed. It had been days of travel with only animal blood and even the squirrel you found before the party wasn't enough to quench your relentless thirst. Suddenly the heartbeats around you became so loud they drowned out the music hammering through the ballroom. You would go mad.

Bringing your hand to slide underneath his tight white shirt, the man trailed his mouth to rest above the cut of your scarlet red dress, your cleavage bouncing with the exotic beat of the music.

And like that, you slipped away from his arms, swaying your lips in a dare as you looked over your shoulder to give him a seductive wink - daring him to run the chase. His mouth was formed in a smirk, following you through the mounds of dancing bodies before you both found your way to a secluded broom closet.

Taking his arm, you pushed him to the wall, your mind screaming insults at you as you realized he had fallen into your trap.

Your eyes connected with his as he pulled you to his chest, placing kisses all around your neck as you balled your hands in his back. His touch was annoying, easily predictable. As they all were in the last three centuries.

"Oh sweetheart," You laughed coldly, seeking interest as he stopped kissing you only to lift his head up to level yours, an eyebrow lifting in question. Your hand trailed from his arm all the way up to his chest - just above the heart. Leaning in close to his neck, you felt your white fangs extract as you whispered, "you just found a demon."

And with a swift bite, you bit into his neck, blood spuring out from the deep puncture as you sucked, using your power to mask his screams in the broom closet. He thrashed helplessly underneath you - sinking lower to the ground until you took three gulps of his blood and chose to step away, blood leaking from your mouth as you faced his terror-striken face. Already power thrummed through your veins, silencing the guilt twisting deeply in your gut.

Taking his face, you looked him straight in the emerald eyes and focused your power upon wiping this moment, his face going blank in the process. Your eyes trailed to the blood soaking the white collar of his shirt, lucky enough that his long honeyed hair covered the bite on his neck.

"You will not remember any of our encounter. If anyone asks about the blood on your shirt you will say a friend spilled wine on you." Going over the words twice, you released him of your power, turning around quickly in the closet and evacuating the small space, leaving the Vesuvian behind you.

Monster, your mind screamed at you, pain kicking at your entire being. You wiped any suspicious remainder of blood off of your mouth as you stepped back into the spacious ballroom, the fast-paced song suddenly very enticing. You walked with stride towards the refreshments, not letting the lump in your throat control you.

It got impossible each feeding, and you were terrified of the day you went a step too far. What if you killed them? A shiver ran down your spine as you grabbed a heavy glass of sparking white wine, taking the liquid in your throat to mask the thick substance of blood. Multiple ongoers eyed you, but you shook your head at each invitation, completely out of it despite the clarity in your enhanced senses.

It wasn't until you heard a satin voice glide in your direction when you were back from spacing out.

"I heard that it takes a bold female to pull off red." Your heart dropped, head rising to meet with a pair of warm scarlet eyes. Stunning.

Her hair was tied in a deep pink ponytail, tipped with a flaming magenta. Her body was magnificent, enveloped in a flaming pink dress that fell to the floor and showed off a generous amount of her curves and tightened around her breasts. Her caramel skin shone under the crystalline lights of the chandelier. Her face was sharp, angular. She was the most stunning creature you had ever seen - and your heart constricted when realizing who you were in the presence of.

Countess Nadia Satrinava. The empress of Vesuvia. Even her calm aura radiated power.

You bowed, the wine glass in your hand on the tips of your cupids bow as you rised again, smirking at her with your red-tinted lips. Nadia kept her eyes on you, a sensual tug of her lips making your insides melt. Breathtaking. Utterly breathtaking.

"Of course someone as stunning as the Countess of Vesuvia herself would know of boldness." You remarked, a blush staining her cheeks as she stepped forward. Her eyes held your gaze, power eminating from the flaming red orbs.

An elegant tone floated through the ballroom, a song you could immediately identify as the French waltz. One of your favorites.

Intensity burned in the countess's eyes, all for you. "You know of my name, and what of yours?"

How many men and women would die to be in your position now? More than you could count. Even the people around you gathering to dance couldn't tear their eyes off your interactions with the countess.

"Y/N." You whispered smoothly, and you could of sworn you saw stars in Nadia's eyes as the word bounced off your tongue.

"Lovely." She whispered, as if she couldn't contain the comment. She moved forward another step, dangerously close. You held in a breath. The monster beneath seemed to be calm. Only for her. "And I wouldn't suppose you know how to dance the French waltz, Y/N?" The smile that tugged at your lips was unstoppable.

Placing down the drained wine glass, you stepped forward and took Nadia's manicured hand in your own, feeling your belly go warm and sparks electrifying through your joint hands. It was like magic.

"It would be my pleasure, countess." So Nadia guided you to the dance floor, hand clasped in yours as the people stepped out of your way to form a circle around of you - everybody in pairs.

You and Nadia got in position, your figure standing proudly against hers, Nadia's hand resting lowly on your lip as the other clasped your hand, both sets of feet perfectly placed. Perfectly in sync. With when the song turned on again, you guided her, holding her gaze through it all.

Above every sound, her heartbeat was the loudest in the room.

And it was that night when you vowed that Nadia Satrinava would be yours.

~♡~

/// PRESENT DAY \\\

THE FIRST THING Nadia heard as she awoken was the hushed voices of the people outside the door of her room she could automatically decipher from instant memory, her companions through it all: Doctor Julian Devorak, her favorite magician Asra and her servant and loyal friend, Portia Devorak. They seemed to be in debate, each voice tumbling over a level of a whisper and sometimes their tones becoming otherworldly. Nadia was too weak to care of eavesdropping on it at all, but couldn't even stop her own ears from absorbing tidbits of the conversation.

"She is growing weaker, Ilya. I can hardly get her out of bed..." Portia. Her tone sounded broken, as if she failed. Nadia's heart stumbled at that.

"Which is why we should simply..." Asra'a voice cut off, as if the most anticipated point of the conversation wasn't allowed to be heard. Even if it involved her.

"Are you dense? Her mental health is invaluable and considering how much having it here already affects her, that would be catastrophic." Julian quickly denounced whatever idea Asra had suggested. Nadia's heart stopped at the final word of his sentence.

Her throat felt like sandpaper, the metallic taste of her mouth causing her to wince. The events of what happened earlier in the bathroom rippled through her. She could hardly stop herself from checking through her mind. A part of her went to relief when she couldn't detect her there.

"I've healed many people, have even consoled those who lost their significant other." Nadia's ears perked when hearing the doctor. "But as insane as it sounds, at this point, I am convinced that Noddy could die of a broken heart if she doesn't start caring for herself."

Water. She needed the water now. The pounding in her chest was getting to be too much. Eyes flying through her vibrantly colored room, her eyes met with a glass of water on her nightstand. Unfortunately enough she made the mistake of sitting up too quickly, the squeak of the bed resulted in the trio to go silent as Death, and in seconds the three adults were heading through the door of her room.

Nadia gently sipped on the liquid as she faced a smiling Asra, his smile comforting. Her friends made her feel just a twinge of happiness in the midst of painful defeat. Just a twinge. Once she felt that she was rehydrated and ready to sit up, she masked her face into calm although she felt anything but powerful. The role of countess was beyond foreign to her since her lover's downfall. She placed the glass on the wooden nightstand, the trio watching her every movement from different points of the room. It was Portia who spoke first.

"How are you feeling, Your Majesty?" Her stormy grey eyes were hopeful, but unexpecting. Nadia loathed the feeling of letting her down.

Which is why she hesitated to even answer honestly. Asra has been on edge above Y/N constantly filling her head. Vampiric magic was something he's been studying since her mate's death, and to no avail to fix the ghostly presence. It was almost as if she was another counterpart with Lucio. However these were her friends...and Nadia's voice came out emotionless.

"I'm so...tired." Even the Doctor's face crumpled for moments before he composed himself. "And weak. I feel so, so weak."

Portia looked like she could weep for her ruler right then and there.

But Asra stepped forward, placing a hand on Nadia's frail shoulder and giving her a hope-filled glance. One Nadia refused to decipher, for the sadness in her just would not allow it. The depression consuming her mind could not allow it. All of the shattered pieces of her heart and soul just wouldn't allow it.

"Would you like a nap before you visit the coffin again? If you want me to I could make you tea?" A simple shake of the head from Nadia had Asra nodding, solemn.

"I do wish for a bath." Was all Nadia mentioned. Portia was instantly smiling and on her feet, excited to be able to do something for her countess.

"And Portia?" Nadia called behind her as the youngest Devorak headed for her bathing room. Portia paused, wispes of her messy bun falling from the updo as she paused abruptly.

"Yes, Majesty?"

"I'd like to wear black today." As she always did on these sorrowful days.

"Of course." And Portia was gone.

Silence filled the room, roaring ever louder even as Julian and Asra looked to one another. Something was in the air between them, and Nadia was so close to dismissing them for her nap before Asra excused himself.

"If you'll excuse me Noddy, I have research to do in the library." Nadia simply nodded. And with a final smile, Asra was gone in seconds, the click of the door leaving only Julian.

Their conversation from earlier filled her ears, the same line echoing over and over again. I am convinced that Noddy could die of a broken heart if she doesn't start caring for herself.

And she was left feeling...nothing. Bored acceptance. And that perhaps scared her the most of all.

"Doctor?" She asked, hands playing with the swirling pink and purple duvet, refusing to meet his eyes.

"Nadia?"

"Do you truly believe-" She stopped herself, looking to his eyes and seeing nothing but despair. Worry. Not as a doctor, but as a friend. "That I will die?" There. There it was. Hanging in between them, so loudly in the air that she no longer felt choked down by the words.

Julian was silent, losing her glance as Nadia truly felt the weight of her entire existence slipping through the cracks. She could almost hear the tick-tock of the clock tugging on the threads of her life. Without her, without the love of her life - she almost couldn't bare the thought of waking up tomorrow to go on like this. Not when her vampire mate was gone from this world, body held down in a coffin only for her soul to be sent to the Devil - it was all Nadia's fault.

She almost broke down then and there.

The dip of the mattress as the oldest Devorak sibiling sat beside her was enough of a distraction to ignore the lump in her throat, her red eyes meeting his grey.

"Do I think you will die? Yes. But only if you keep torturing yourself like this. You give yourself away every single day and it breaks all of our hearts. But not as much as it breaks your own. You aren't eating, you don't sleep unless you're absolutely forced under. You don't go outside anymore." Sunlight from beyond the window pressed against the drapes concealing it, the reminder of the darkness Nadia chose to live in. Julian took her hand as a tear exited her eyes. Not romantically, but the touch of a friend. Of the doctor she wrongly accused long ago. "We love you. You brought Vesuvia the greatest of joy as their ruler. But for two months ever since Y/N died," Julian paused at that, seeing the stream of tears pouring down Nadia's face at the name. "your kingdom has been shooting into depression. And you conceal yourself from anything that makes you happy, Noddy. You don't smile. Or laugh. Sometimes I hardly ever see you breathe." A plea. His words were a plea.

"She is gone. She killed and slaughtered. You did the right thing." Nadia shook her head, denial coloring her. The words she was dying to say - the words that refused to come out since that night all those months ago, slipped from the cracks.

"I killed her." A whisper. And in those three words, there was a hurricane of emotion. Saying it to Julian...it felt horrifying. Like stabbing open her throat and ripping away her heart.

Julian shook his head, eyes glassed over.

"Look at me." He said, his voice undeniably stern. Nadia's head lifted at that, eyes sitting on the audern haired man through blurred vision.

"You saved us. And I know that it was one of - if not the most painful choices of your life. I believe that you loved her. More than life. But I also believe that she changed. And in that, I want you to go forward. To never stop. You need to let go. At one point...I wanted to stop. I had to let go." He looked down, a distant look in his eyes. Intrigue flickered in the countess.

"And what made you keep going?"

"The things and people I couldn't lose."

~♡~

/// EIGHT MONTHS AGO \\\

YOU HAD NEVER felt this way about anyone before. Not in your three hundred years of life, not when romanticism was the least of your concerns. You had never fallen in love, and even if you ever had, never this fast.

You knew it was impossible to compare considering the few short-lived flings you have had in the last few centuries, but none of them ever came close to what you and Nadia possessed.

It took two months. Two months to let your hair back and expand your arms. Two months to get to know beauty herself, to understand that the compassion and intelligence that drove  Nadia Satrinava was enough to make you fall unconditionally in love with her. Of course the attraction had been there since the beginning, but the mental state of your relationship was all the more secure.

Telling her of your immortal existence was surprisingly as easy as breathing. And what surprised you beyond that was how quick Nadia was to accept you that night. She had taken your face in her hands and kissed you with the intensity of fire...and you sure as hell allowed yourself to burn.

However you both had danced around those three little words, often implying it but never allowing such a powerful sentence to be said aloud. Tonight...you had other plans. A romantic gesture that took weeks of planning, weeks of coordination. It of course wouldn't be your first date, you had private dinners many times beforehand, even horse-riding sessions with the countess were always a treat. But you wanted more. More beyond the usualities that took place. You wanted to give Nadia everything...your everything because she deserved that and more.

The moon was full as you stood upon Nadia's balcony, stars of promise blinking at you with wishful eyes. Tonight. You would tell her tonight. You fiddled around with the velvet box in your oversized trench coat, the box mere ounces where mentally it felt like the weight equivalent to bricks. Would she say yes? Were you going too fast? Mating presents were a custom to offering your lover...but in two months? Damn it all to hell, you considered running back to your room then and there, but-

A hand traveling up the length of your side from behind, the trench coat preening upwards as a caramel hand squeezed at your curves. A bold move from the countess, considering you moved to lean against her front, Nadia pressing you further into the bars of the balcony as placing a ghost of a kiss to your cheek, her other hand circling around your collarbone.

The arch of your back was completely unintentional. You gave a dark chuckle and whispered seductively, "Hello, my dream."

Your insides turned to molten, head spinning as you suddenly remembered why you were here. Spellbounded by the pink-haired female behind you, you turned around, facing your countess and nearly forgetting to breathe as you took her in.

Nadia's hair was down, curled at the ends and parted to the side, free and flowing with the light breeze.. You had never seen it down and instantly fell in love with this woman all over again. It was insanity how easily she could undo you. How a simple change of hairstyle was leaving you reeling. But what she was wearing....oh dear gods.

A passionate red nightgown hugged her shimmering body, stopping inches below from her core and the neckline so V-lined that you could nearly see the entirety of her breasts. An angel. A gift sent to you from whatever gods and myths promised to exist from the birth of this magnificent creature.

You had realized that you had been staring so long when you met Nadia's scarlet eyes, glazed over with pure desire and endless admiration. Your hands trembling as you moved forward, you clutched the strap of her nightgown and heard Nadia's sharp intake of breath at your cold fingers, eyes closing slightly as you trailed them over her hardened nipples. "Y/N." She groaned, the sound so stimulating you swear your knees nearly turned to liquid.

But you focused on - slowly, ever so slowly - guiding your fingers to go lower, dancing over her upper chest and lower to meet her abdomen.

"You are so beautiful, my lovely empress." You whispered seductively, moving closer so your mouth was pressing kisses to her neck at the same moment you reached the end of her nightgown. You were going to go insane just standing upon such beauty, mad even. Your tongue licked over the column of her neck, Nadia's moan so low in her throat that a part of you screamed to make it even louder.

"Y/N, kiss me." She begged, her hand going to rest over the small of your back, pulling you closer as your lips met in a tangle of groans and delight.

Kissing Nadia was like chasing the stars, endless and exciting - going towards something that you wanted your entire life. It wasn't until your back pressed even harder into the balcony when you felt her hand travel underneath your cocktail dress, rubbing you through your silken panties. You moaned at the impact, the carnal instinct in your immortal mind reeling.

"Oh, fuck," You breathed as you threw your head back, eyes closing and truly moaning when her fingers pulled your underwear to the side, two slim fingers instantly inserted inside of you.

Nadia's fingers curved into your wetness, making you bark curses as you saw stars gather behind your eyes. Nadia began sucking on the sensitive spot of your neck, releasing only when a bruised love bite was left in it's wake.

"I have wanted to do this," She growled in your ear, making you question who truly was the vampire here. "Since I saw you in that tight red dress the night we met." You groaned as she added another finger, your hands flying to dig into her narrow waist as you grinded against her, her teeth biting into your shoulder.

"You're so wet." She groaned, and you instantly wished to wrap your hands around her pretty little neck-

It wasn't until you were reminded of the obsidian ring in your pocket when you moved away from Nadia, her expression crestfallen. Instant guilt settled in your stomach as you gave her a small smile, moving forward to place both hands upon her cheeks.

"Nadia Satrinava, do you know how much you mean to me?" The words caused the entirety of her red orbs to soften, her lips slowly meeting yours in a small, passionate kiss. When you drew away, Nadia's wide-mouthed smile made your eyes dance. Her hands rested upon your hips.

"I love you." She whispered, and the words - you swore - were your salvation. Your stomach jumped and suddenly tears were in your eyes, the world frozen as her fingers shot up to wipe away the salty tears. "Y/N L/N, I love you."

It all snapped into place then. All those years of living in the darkness and watching Death make it's rounds. All of the failure and misconceptions. The good and the bad, the fangs and even stomaching the blood. It was to come to this woman - and to experience this moment. To defend the countess of Vesuvia and love her unconditionally.

And nothing, nothing, made more sense than this.

"And I love you, Nadia." You said with perfect clarity, and her heart quickened, hammering in your love's chest at the confession. "Be mine." You said out of pure desperation, placing feather-like kisses along the length of her nose as she laughed out of joy. "I understand that this all went down in mere months," A kiss on her lips, continuing just above a sharp pink eyebrow. "But I want to spend every waking moment with you." Another kiss to her hairline. "I want to wake up beside you as the birds sing." A kiss to her temple. "I want to rule beside you as Vesuvia's other countess, powerful beside power itself." A kiss to her palm. "I want to experience the joy of being a parent with you, Noddy." A kiss to each finger on her left hand. Tears ran down the countess's face, a smile of gratitude blooming upon her cheeks. "I want to make love to you every night and every morning." Nadia's eyes glazed at that comment. "Please my love, be my wife. Be my mate."

Finally, you stepped back, fingers trembling as you picked up the royal blue velveted box, opening it and presenting a obsidian ring, crafted all the way back two hundred years. The diamond was pure black, stunning and shining underneath the moonlight against the golden band. Nadia's eyes were filled of tears, a hand covering her mouth as she took in the jewel.

Her answer came in mere seconds, every lingering heartbeat snapping to pure happiness. "Yes. Yes I would be honored." And you stormed forward, the obsidian ring sliding onto the countess's middle finger with the perfect glide. A perfect fit.

And you weren't sure how you got entangled on the balcony then - both yours and Nadia's hands ripping at each other's clothing as you laid her down on the blanketed ground, the world hanging on a balance as you tore the silky nightgown off your mate, her body completely exposed underneath, causing you to growl. Her curves looked absolutely delicious, her eyes painted black and lids hooded by her eyelashes as she looked at you with fiery desire. The only thing on her bare body was that beautiful obsidian ring.

Suddenly you became wetter at the vision, throwing off the trench coat and damning clothes to hell as you threw off the remainder of your clothing, Nadia's eyes widening on your exposed body. And for moments you sat on your knees above her, both of you drinking one another in with hungry eyes.

It was the beautiful expedition of her body that enticed you - that although you were just inches away from such a powerful woman, her heart was your favorite feature. And for once it was not the life force tethered to her body, but instead how Nadia's heartbeat sung to you.

Your favorite song.

"You are so gorgeous." She breathed, her heart hammering in her chest. And what she did next...oh gods. She spread her legs for you, exposing herself completely to you. "Come show me what you can do, vampire."

And underneath the stars of that fateful night, you made love to your countess.

END OF PART ONE! CONTINUE TO PART TWO

[grapenamjams]

Summer Festival

Genre: Fluff of course XD 

Characters: Muriel from the arcana and my apprentice Eliza

A/N:  And this concludes my Arcana writing spurt that I had last month XD .  if you have read my past posts thank you so much and if this is the first post you read of mine thank you! it means so much to me and i hope my story/ stories help you escape for a little while, :) I hope you all have a nice day/night 

a little bit about my MC

Her name is Eliza (she/her. Female.) She is 5′2 has brown wavy hair, brown eyes (with specks of green) she also has adorable freckles across her nose. lastly she has a artic fox, named Nell as a familiar who is enchanted to keep cold during the summer and whenever Nell walks she leaves behind snow prints on the ground (think of what Olaf from frozen has lol) 

The shop was packed as it always was during the summer festival. travelers from all regions coming to celebrate the end of summer in vesuvia made for new eager clients to purchase ingredients, potions and of course getting their readings done. This year Asra let Eliza be in charge of the readings, while he took care of the shop. Asra had said that she was ready to handle the Arcana on her own but as what felt like her 100th customer leave through the curtains. she was beginning to feel the toll of using the cards for so long, she could even feel Nell beginning to tire as the fox laid down underneath her seat. however the cards themselves seemed to be mocking her as they Pulsed with energy at being used so much.

She sighed closing her eyes for a second until she heard footsteps approach, she sat up quickly ready to attend another client But familiar fluffy white curls poked through the curtain, Asra entered the space giving her a warm smile “how are you holding up?” Eliza slouches back into her seat and lets out a breath “I don’t know how you did it all these years, I’m so tired I fear I might fall asleep on the next customer” she looks at Asra and he lets out a soft laugh, crossing his arms over his chest. “Yeah, the cards love attention and can take a toll on the reader, but you are doing well containing them, I’m proud” Eliza can’t help but blush at his compliment. “Thanks” she gives him a small smile as she shuffles the cards in front of her.

“Lets call it a night on the readings hm? Why don’t you go out and enjoy the festival?” Eliza looks at him “and leave you to run the shop by yourself when it’s like this?” Asra shrugs his shoulders “you know I don’t mind, besides you take care of the shop the most through out the year. So let me have tonight as a way to make up for the missed hours.” Eliza thinks for a moment “but still I feel bad leaving you while I go out to the festival. I’ll just go later when we close up shop for the speech” Asra frowns “but the best parts of the festival will be over by then” he looks to the side to where the back room is, then to her quickly. “I insist, go enjoy. Don’t worry about me” living with Asra for years has made Eliza know every facial expression he has and the one he is trying to hide right now tells her he knows something. She raises an eyebrow at him “are you sure? I-“ he cuts her off waving one hand “yup I’m sure! Go right ahead.” He turns around to leave “Before you go however check the back door there’s a package out there for you” before she can protest any further Asra leaves a confused Eliza behind, his voice rings out through the shop as he announces that there will be no more readings for tonight.

After Asra’s adamant requests for her to go she had no choice but to or she felt that he would literally push her out the door. Grabbing her bag she bounded down the steps waving good bye to Asra who was at the counter, he looks at her and smiles. She opens the back door and the enjoyable warmth of the night greets her, sounds of the festival already reaching her ears, although she is happy to go see it Eliza cant help but feel sad, like something is missing. Going alone isn’t the same as having someone else there to enjoy the festivities with. 

Eliza looks down and to the sides of the door steps trying to find the package Asra mentioned but finds nothing. Giving up, she turns to go back inside but stops when she hears something rustle amongst the shrubs at the edge of the forest. Eliza takes a step back cautiously, but then suddenly a huge smile breaks across her face when she sees a large green eyed man come from the trees.

 When his eyes land on hers he gives a small smile “hello Eliza.” And just like that all feelings of tiredness and loneliness that were inside her vanished as she runs towards Muriel giving him a hug around his waist. “Muriel!” The big man Stiffens at her sudden reaction but just as quickly relaxes. he takes a step back steading himself from her crashing into him, he lets out a small “oof” and chuckles at her small frame hugging is large one.

 “What are you doing here?” Eliza asks stepping back a little to look up at him but still holding him. He’s wearing his hair half up with a green ribbon, his usual cloak and his green scarf she got for him. He places a hand on her head moving it down, she leans Into his touch. “Today is the summer festival right?” Eliza eyes widen “yeah it is!” She sees Muriel Avert his eyes “I thought it was something you would like to go to...and” his cheeks grow slightly pink “I want to go see it with you” he looks back at her seeing her face practically glowing from happiness making his ears go red “that is...if you want to go with me...” 

Eliza’s stomach fills with butterflies at Muriel asking her to go with him. she had been so busy with organizing the shop for this day that she had forgotten to tell him about it. Usually Eliza and Asra go to the Closing speech only, staying at the shop the whole night, that’s why it was weird for him to ask her to go out and enjoy the night but know she obviously knows why. Eliza giggles she grabs his hand that was on her head and kisses his knuckle before she places her hand into his.

 “I would love to go with you, thank you for asking me” Muriel sticks his bottom lip out and mumbles “who else would I have asked?” Eliza hums and bumps into his side teasingly “I dunno maybe Asra?” He frowns shaking his head “I want to go with you” he states plainly making Eliza laugh “well then, let’s get going!” She tugs at his arm, before looking back to the doorway to see Faust sitting on top of Nell seeing them off “have fun!” The both say and Eliza smiles.

 they round the shop to get to the street but before they do, under a string of colorful lights that are hanged above them, connecting from the shop to other next door, Muriel stops. Eliza looks up at him “something wrong?” She asks moving in front of him to see his face, slightly worrying that he had changed his mind. 

his eyes are lowered but he’s blushing. “No. I made you something” he lets go of her hand and reaches inside his cloak, his hand comes out holding a flower crown made with different forest flowers all around. their natural colors vibrant. On one side there is a piece of green tulle tied onto it. “I remembered that wearing one is common at the festival... so I made you one” Eliza reaches out and delicately holds it in her hands, admiring it. “Muriel... I.. this is Beautiful thank you!” She goes on her toes and kisses his cheek when she goes back down she holds the shimmery green tulle “I love it! Where did you get this fabric?” Muriel has a small smile on his face happy that she loves it so much. “A few days ago at the market. Traded some protective charms for it”

 Eliza’s heart swells ”Muriel.” He shrugs “it was okay” her cheeks hurt from smiling so much and their night only had just begun. She puts the crown on her head and does a spin “sooo how do I look?” She asks Muriel eyes widen and he reddens even more. She looks at him tilting her head slightly smiling at him. he averts his eyes “pretty.” He says and Eliza’s face warms as her whole body flutters at his compliment. Muriel looks to her taking her in again. He grabs her hand in his and presses his lips to her cheek. “Very pretty” he says trying to hide his face as he leads a flustered Eliza down the street.

They walk towards the city’s market place where the main attractions were. However music played through out all of Vesuvia, kids ran around them laughing one little girl pointed out Eliza’s crown calling it pretty making Muriel blush when Eliza told the little girl he had made it for her. Conversations amongst friends and new acquaintances filled around them as they made there way through.

  When they neared the center the sound of music increased and the aroma of spices, desserts and cooking meats passed underneath their noses as vendors called out trying to get customers to try their new specials. Eliza’s mouth began to water at all the food in front of her, she looked at Muriel and found him staring at a meat stand where they were cooking smoked eel, his favorite. Of course Muriel wouldn’t voice that he wanted some. “Are you hungry?” She asks, Muriel’s eyes leave the stand to focus on her “um. Are you?” Eliza smiles “with all this food? How can I not ?” He laughs softly “then let’s go eat.” she leads him to the meat stand “couldn’t have said it better myself!”

She gets Muriel his eel skewers and she gets her own beef ones. Muriel bites Into his food and his mouth waters with the flavor, he takes small bites enjoying it fully. He looks to Eliza who’s close to finishing her first. He chuckles softly. It might be weird but Muriel likes watching her eat, in fact he likes watching her do anything because that means she is there with him. But when she eats something good she closes her eyes and hums, moving her body side to side clearly enjoying her food. 

Before he meet her before she showed him at the masquerade that food can be something that holds flavor and it can be enjoyed and appreciated. He had looked at food as something his body needed to survive to last another day it didn’t matter if it tasted good or not. But now with Eliza he enjoyed eating, he still became amazed at how many different combinations there are, he liked tasting different flavors. And that they did, after finishing their skewers they went onto different stands tasting a variety of dishes.

* * * 

After participating in some games like archery and cards Muriel and Eliza With their desserts in hand found a table, near the dance square . They ate their desserts together while watching the festivities go on in full swing around them.

 People eating near  stands, others bargaining for the best price at shops and kids running around with sticks that sparkle. Eliza feeds some of her dessert to Muriel which he excepts but quickly lets out a low grumble “too sweet” he states making Eliza laugh knowing he wouldn’t really like it. “You really like sweet stuff” she hums as she takes another bite of her pastry “mmhmm pure sweet goodness is the best” Eliza swallows. Muriel picks up his own pastry out for her to take a bite, Eliza takes a small one and she scrunches her face “and you really like sour stuff” she swallows but taking another bite of her own to cover the taste. 

Muriel let’s out a chuckle “sour goodness is the best” he repeats her words. Eliza grins feeling playful, from the sugar in her. “sweet” she challenges, he pouts “sour” she leans towards him “sweet” Eliza repeats before she kisses him on the lips. She feels the tangy sourness on his lips and he feels the sugary powder on hers and he can’t help but to like the taste of the Flavor more this way. She pulls away from him seeing the tint of pink on his cheeks that matches her own, his eyes are lidded looking down at her lips like he wants more, “sweet” he whispers, making Eliza smirk “I win” his eyes come to focus looking at her. He averts his eyes and frowns “you cheated” the brown haired girl laughs taking in his adorable pout. She loops her arm through his “awww” she leans into him resting her chin on his shoulder “alright both flavors are good in their own way, how about that?” She looks up at muriel, eyes looking out away from her, but she can see a smile “hm, agreed” he mumbles. Eliza grins and kisses his shoulder before resting her head on it.

They stay in this position for a few minutes until Eliza hears the first chord of a new song and knows exactly what is going to happen next. The band starts playing a slow beat letting people who want to join the dance come take a place in the middle of the dance square.

 Eliza heads pokes up seeing men, women and children being lead to the center by the music. Then little by little the tempo picks up, Eliza’s heart quickens excited to see the dance that is was going to take place. She didn’t know that she was sitting all the way up leaning towards the music until she heard Muriel. “You should go dance” she jumps a little not expecting him to say that “w-what? Oh. No. I’m fine, I like watching” she says but she feels her body telling her to go join the forming crowd. “And you like to dance too. Go ahead.” She turns back to him looking at his smile on his face. 

She would ask him to come with but she knows that group dances arnt his thing. “A-are you sure? I don’t want to leave you alone” Muriel gives her hand a squeeze “Don’t worry about me.” She sees him press his lips into a line and shifts his gaze down “I want you to enjoy yourself too, not just be stuck with me” Eliza shifts back in her seat. “I am enjoying myself” she smiles at him “ I like being stuck with you” Muriel lets out a huff and gives her a playful glare. Making Eliza laugh “alright alright I’ll go just for you okay?” She stands up and kisses his cheek before going, Leaving behind a happy blushing Muriel. 

Out of all the many things he liked seeing her do, dancing was one of his favorites. He would catch her humming and dancing around the hut and sometimes she would bring a music box so they both could dance together. He smiles at the memory as he watches her leave to join the crowd, the music picking up starting the dance. He wishes he could join her, he really did. he would love to be able to do everything with her, experience everything that she wanted to do. but he wasn’t there yet, maybe one day he will get there. but he knows for certain that with her light guiding him and being patient with him he knows he could do it.

But for tonight Muriel spots her in the crowd two lines had formed and both moved side to side hopping to the beat. then both lines go towards each other and when they meet, one person holds out their hand and spins the other around then they continue on through changing spots, once they get to the other side they clap and do the whole steps again just changing the person who spins in the middle. The tempo quickens gradually and becomes a dance of who can last to the end of the song. He sees her laugh as she feels the shift in rhythm trying to not trip and a determined look on her face to last the whole song. Occasionally she looks over at him and smiles making his body warm up, even when she’s enjoying herself she looks after him. He loved seeing the way her face lights up, and her skirt flowing around her. she always danced like no one was watching, just enjoying the moment.

 Eliza takes in a big breath and laughs with the rest of the participants that lasted till the end of the song alongside her. hugs were given out and cheers were heard from the others that had stepped out. She catches her breath and looks at Muriel still sitting at the table looking at her with a wide smile, her heart flutters at knowing that he saw her dance. 

She puts her hands to her cheeks knowing how red she must look and can’t help but feel a bit embarrassed but that feeling dosnt last long as another song starts and she’s pulled into another group dance, this one at a medium tempo. Two small circles are created as they skip to the beat going right all around then left, then they all go to the middle clapping twice before going back out again. She feels the music course through her and gets lost in it loving the feeling. The tone of the violin making her movements flow and the beats of the drums making her steps firm against the ground. By the end of the song they had made a big circle trading partners. 

Eliza compliments the little girl she ended up with and goes to the barrel of water that they put out for the dancers at the corner of the raised stage, serving herself. When she throws away the cup a song danced usually by couples starts to play. She looks to the square,  men are taking their partners to dance, she even spots some fathers taking their young daughters making her smile. Eliza makes her way around the crowd towards Muriel whose on the other side, but suddenly feels a sweaty hand clamp over her wrist making her turn around to face the person who’s grabbing her.

 It was a man not much older than her but by his grin and the way he wavered a bit she knew that he was down a few salty bitters. “What is a pretty girl like yourself doing alone during this dance?” The man slurs Eliza tries not to scoff at him as she moves her arm away but he tightness his grip “that’s none of your concern, now please let me go” she steps back but he quickly wraps an arm around her waist pulling her towards him and spinning them around “oh come on sweetheart, a cute thing like you shouldn’t be alone tonight” he grins looking her up and down. Eliza tries to step away pushing at his shoulder but he dosnt budge “you’re mistaken I’m not alone. Let me go” the mans eyebrows shoot up “oh?” He looks around behind her searching, his gaze going back to hers “I don’t see them, maybe they left you for another, what a shame.” The man snickers leaning in closer.

“He didn’t.” A deep serious voice is heard. Eliza’s head looks up to see Muriel towering behind the man with a threatening glare. The man rolls his eyes “then you shouldn’t have left her, sorry finders keepers” the man turns his head still having a grin on his face but it quickly falls as his eyes meet Muriel’s chest, his eyes climb, craning his neck up until he is looking at Muriel death glare. She could hear the man gulp, “she told you she wasn’t alone didn’t she?”

 The man just nodes still looking at Muriel with shock and fear “then let her go.” The mans eyes go wide and he quickly lets go of Eliza, hands up in surrender stammering “S-So sorry. T-this was just a m-misunderstanding! YES! A misunderstanding that’s all Y-You know how it is with a few salty bitters right?” He laughs nervously as he gulps again. Muriel’s glare stays unmoving he steps forward and the man yelps stepping back “leave.” Muriel almost growls out. 

The man  frantically steps back almost tripping “right! Leaving now, right now” and with that he scrambles away from them. Eliza looks at the direction the man left relived that he was finally gone. “Are you alright?” She hears Muriel’s soft voice in front of her ask, making her look up at him, his face expressing worry, his gaze quickly softening as he takes her in his hands grabbing her wrist the man had held looking for any marks, then bringing his hands to cup her face. 

“Did he hurt you?” His gaze starting to harden but she quickly places her own hands on his giving him a smile “I’m fine. he didn’t hurt me” Muriel sighs, relief washing over him. he presses his lips to her forehead “good” she sees his face fall lightly “I’m sorry. I wasn’t with you, if I was this wouldn’t have ha-.” Eliza cuts him off by placing a finger to his lips “I won’t let you say those words” she takes his hands away from her face and holds them “you’re here with me now aren't you?” She smiles up at him “you’re always with me Muriel, always” his green eyes soften, gratefulness filling inside them.

 “Come on let’s go sit down” she says starting to walk towards their table but Muriel doesn't budge. She looks back at him in question, “you like this song.” He states Eliza looks around to the couples dancing. “Yeah, it’s nice” she smiles fondly and starts walking again. “I don’t want the song to be ruined for you” he mumbles. Eliza turns towards him surprised, her body warming up at his words. 

“what do you mean? The song isn’t ruined” Muriel pauses for a second and looks around, they were standing on the the outside of the dance square, most of the people still in the center. Eliza is about to ask him what is wrong when he pulls away his hand from hers, she looks down confused at this action. Eliza hears him take in a deep breath her eyes moving back to his seeing a dust of pink on his cheeks also making an appearance going down his neck.

 He straightens up and puts a hand out towards Eliza and as if he practiced countless times before “can I have this dance?” Eliza’s mind stops working for a second as she looks up at the man before her who just asked her to dance so she would have happy memories, to the man that would only dance with her inside of his own hut, to the man who would do anything to make her smile. 

Eliza’s whole body feels weightless as she takes his rough hand, “you can” she states. Muriel’s eyebrows shoot up in surprise as if he wasn’t expecting her to say yes to him making Eliza let out a small laugh. He becomes red, his hands gently find their places on her body, he bites his lip and looks down to their feet nervous to start leading. Eliza can’t stop her heart from swelling at how adorable he looks, she hears the music and counts for him like she usually does when they dance together.

 “And a one, two. three. And a one.” She feels Muriel step forward and she follows him, she still counts until she knows he feels the music and lets him lead her. She is smiling up at him encouraging him, he looks down at her with a embarrassed smile. Eliza rests her head on his chest and lets the gentle music flow through them.

In that moment Muriel would do anything to make time stop. The feeling of the music mixed with her in his arms giving him full trust to lead her made his whole body warm. She had said that he was always with her but she was just the same, she was always with him. 

she was in his every thought, in every word he said, the feeling of her on his skin was constant, she was what made his heart beat even so frantically like it was now. Her entire self had already made an impact inside him that even if he tried to forget her something would always appear to make him remember. he was and forever will  be surrounded by her. 

For an instant the world around them faded away, they weren’t dancing at the festival anymore they just were, they were just there in that moment in each other’s presence. It wasn’t until the music stopped that pulled both lovers back to reality. Muriel still kept Eliza close as they both looked onto the stage. A person goes on to the side, announcing “presenting the countess Nadia giving the closing speech!” A cheer breaks out as Nadia climbs taking center stage.

 Eliza claps along with the others, smiling up at her friend. Nadia inclines her head to the announcer in thanks and looks out to the crowd “thank you everyone, this years summer festival was a successful one because of all of you and Your hard work. As the people of Vesuvia know and those who have traveled far to come here, This festival is meant to say farewell to the summer season. Farewell to long days and short nights, to hot mornings  which we had a few of, didn’t we?” The crowd laughs and murmurs in agreement remembering the heat wave that passed. 

“But with that we also say farewell to cold desserts, to time at the beach in the warm sand and time to visit friends and family. But although we say farewell to all of these things and many more that come with summer we welcome the new experiences that come our way. Farewells are not always meant to be wrapped in a sense of sadness, some farewells are just endings to certain parts of our lives. where one thing ends something new always begins, I look forward to sharing those new experiences with you all. So for this festival, for this summer let’s close it with a happy ending shall we?” The crowd cheers once again and those cheers turn to gasps and aws as various colors light up the night sky.

 Muriel looks up to the sky taking in the sight of the fireworks , hearing the music start up again. He hears Eliza’s aw’s at the blasts of light over the buildings, she looks up at him, a content expression on her face. He takes her hand and spins her in front of him taking her all in, Eliza laughs and when she stops she rests her hands on his chest. Muriel searches her face, eyes roaming the face he has come to memorize. The colors above bloom across her features highlighting the pink on her cheeks and making her freckles shine like the constellations that were above them. 

She was breathtakingly beautiful to him in every way and in that moment he knew he never wanted to be parted from her ever again, he couldn’t see a life without her. All the endings he would have in his life he wanted to experience them with her at his side. 

Muriel leans his forehead against her own, “here’s to happy endings, Eliza” he says Her eyes flicker with emotion “to happy endings” she repeats and Before he can let his mind stop him Muriel picks her up in his arms and spins them both a laugh coming out of him, he looks up to see her laughing to. She looks down onto him and brings her hands to cup his cheeks. They both gaze into each other’s eyes sharing emotions that they only understand. The two lovers both tilt their heads towards each other and when their lips met it feels like a blast of colorful light shines against the night sky.