#i love that marriage is a thing there its disgusting. and they agree to it. its so ugly and hot and . consent is sexy

[blu3mila]

a marriage

trigun love with fear and hunger on my mind <3

[theconstitutionisgayculture]

Genuinely trying to understand why a gay person would be supporting the party you do.

Not American myself but from what I understand there’s a lot of homophobia there.

It doesn’t look like Democrats are perfect either but at least less hostile to gays?

I'll dispense with my usual "Shut the fuck up European" image response because you do actually seem genuine, so here's my genuine answer.

Yeah, there's some homophobia on the right. Some. It's nowhere near what the media would have you believe. But there's homophobia on the left, too. The left just has the media and their ability to shape a narrative on their side. The worst thing I've had said to me by someone on the right was that they don't support gay marriage and think its a sin. Or that they think gay sex is disgusting. And that's fine. I don't like hearing about certain sexual acts myself and find them gross and weird. I don't need anyone else to approve or support my sex life.

And as for the part about gay marriage, I understand where most of them are coming from when they say that, too. They truly feel that their religious beliefs are under attack and that religious marriage is supposed to be between one man and one woman. But even many of those people will say that they don't really care if gays get legally married as long as there's some differentiation between the religious ceremony of marriage, and the legal institution of marriage, which are two different things. I personally don't need anyone to validate my marriage but me and my husband. I don't care if it's legally recognized. I don't care if it's recognized by any particular church. My marriage and my relationships are my own personal business. And there are a lot of people on the right who feel the exact same way.

So, that's the worst I've gotten from the right. Let's talk about the worst I've gotten from the supposedly gay friendly left. The following is not a complete list, but here's some of the things that I've been told by Democrats and other leftists when they find out I'm a gay right winger, both online and offline:

Kill yourself

Die faggot

You should be gay bashed

I hope you get raped by a closeted Republican politician

I hope your dog dies

Kill yourself

You're a traitor to all gay people

Kill yourself with one of those guns you love

I hope you get cancer and die horribly

I hope your husband dies

You should be sent to a concentration camp

Kill yourself

and basically every anti-gay slur you can possibly think of

That's what I get from the left, from other gay people, when they find out I vote differently then they do. Just based on these anecdotal experiences with the American right and the American left, I think it's pretty clear why I find myself on one side and not the other.

But!

I'm not a one issue voter. Gay issues are mostly meaningless to me. What I care about are personal freedoms, protecting my rights, and the success of my country on the world stage. Currently, the American right aligns with those beliefs way more than the left. That's not to say the Republican Party always aligns perfectly with what I want or believe, but the reality is we live in a two party system. Until enough of us get together and make a nationally viable third party, if the choice in presidential elections is between one party that I almost never agree with and whose stated goals are to violate my rights and destroy everything I love about America, and one party that does what I voted for them to do around half the time, of course I'm voting for the second party nationally.

Locally it can be a bit different. It's easier to effect local elections and policies just by being active, and in geographically close areas the differences between the people running for town council might not be as wide as two people running for president nationally, so I won't just vote the R party line by default. I've voted libertarian locally before. Hell, I even voted Democrat once. But, for the most part, it's the Republicans who I feel will do what I think should be done more than the other parties. And that's why I vote for them, and why I'm a registered Republican. Well, that and I want to be able to vote in the Republican primaries.

[happilyhertale]

hello! I was hoping to send in a tom bennett x reader request that I have in mind.

basically, reader is sent off by her father to have an arranged marriage with an older, rich man. she's young and still has a whole life ahead of her however she decides not to fight against her father and does what pleases him. reader feels miserable, her husband barely acknowledges her and when he does, he says nasty things.

one night, she stumbles upon a man, tom bennett. two end up beginning a secret love affair of sorts. please? 💜

Life anchor – Tom Bennett x female!reader, Part 1

Pairing: Tom Bennett x fem!reader

Warnings: Misogyny, light violence

Author’s note: Hey you (:

A little Tom Bennett story requested by the wonderful @chainsawsangel 💕

Sorry it took me so long to write this! English is my second language, please forgive me if I made any mistakes (:

Word count: 2.9k

Part 2, Part 3

Other stories of mine

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

"No discussion. You will marry him"

You just looked at your father in disbelief. A burning spread through your eyes, brought on by the tears that blurred your vision.

Yet you refused to give in.

"You can't be serious... He is almost your age, father!" you tried to say in a firm voice, but your voice threatened to fail.

A sigh left your father, "It's our chance..."

"... your father. It's your chance," you had interrupted him.

"It's our chance for me to cement my place in politics. To earn more money. He can guarantee us that. You just have to agree to marry him," your father said to you.

Single tears now ran over the rim of your eyes. You looked to the side and tried to suppress a sob. A heaviness spread through your chest that would not let you go for a long time.

"Father... please don't do this to me..." you whispered without looking at him.

But at first there was no reply from your father and you had to make sure that he had not left the room. But when you looked to him, you saw that his gaze was fixed on you.

"We have no choice," he said to you quietly.

From then on you knew that you had no choice - you had to marry William.

In those moments, your suffering began to grow. In the prime of your early twenties, you found yourself married to a man who had outlived nearly fifty years of his life. Since that union, a heavy unease has settled in your chest that refuses to go away.

William has a face that is not far from attractive; some would even dare to call it attractive. If only his inner character didn't cast a shadow over his outer appearance. While his physical stature is tall and his mane of hair exudes a lush darkness, it is the elegance of his clothing that always graces him, coupled with the incessant curve of a smile on his lips.

On the surface, he treats you with an almost warm politeness. And yet, in this realm beyond the surface, he remains uninterested in the totality of your being, unmoved by your passions or aspirations that truly define you as a person. In his perception, you are nothing more than a decorative facade, a charming companion on his arm. The words between the two of you are sparse, relegated to a realm of brevity.

When confronted with problems or troubling circumstances in his immediate environment, he brandishes his wealth as the ultimate remedy. His conviction is based on the notion that the amount of financial resources directly correlates to a person's intrinsic worth. He conveys this conviction by subliminally making his interlocutors feel inferior compared to him. You find disgust in this pretense and detest the artificial facades he puts on.

The house in which you live is surrounded by a huge green space. It is a really pretty property, but still you feel lost there. It is oversized, its rooms reflect emptiness. And those who share most of your time there are your employees. The fact that William is rarely present doesn't bother you - solitude is a cherished companion.

In the midst of this house there is a room set aside just for your comfort. When the burden of your heart becomes too heavy, you retreat there to rest. It is a refuge to bear the burden in your chest.

William's return often takes place under the gaze of the moon, the late hours being his time of arrival. But at times, a communal dinner graces the quiet nights. Occasionally, when you are already in bed together, he becomes a nocturnal partner. His body language varies - sometimes averted, sometimes seeking closeness. Almost like a dance between your husband's ignorance and his desire to be intimate with you.

There is an undeniable lack of zeal in this scenario. You endure it with unwavering stoicism and wait patiently for him to complete his act. As soon as sleep catches up with him and he has his back turned to you again, you rise and quietly retreat to the bathroom. Hidden in a cabinet is a small vial of diluted acetic acid. Using an pipette, you wash his semen from your body with it. The weight on your chest, which never leaves you, is almost unbearable at such moments.

One evening, William opens up to you that you are going to visit an adjacent naval ship. It is of great importance - well, not to you.

The naval ship is docked in your city's harbor, almost like a symbol of England's maritime power and importance. Politicians of the highest importance have been invited to join an expedition aboard this ship, meet its dedicated crew, and make connections.

William has agreed to participate in this momentous event, and by his side you will find yourself in his presence as an escort. On a quiet afternoon, you set out on your way. First you will visit the berth of the ship and later you will move on to a nearby banquet hall, for a small celebration with the crew and the politicians.

In the midst of this journey, a gentle rain falls from the sky, decorating the window panes of the carriage in glistening rivulets. The reverberations of William's words ring dully in your ears, and your nods of time punctuate the conversation as you are drawn to the fleeting ballet of raindrops on the glass.

As the car approaches its destination, the port's towering cranes wave like sentinels of industry, drawing your gaze to the ships resting on the calm water. Your gaze falls on the naval vessel. "H.M.S. Keith" you read as the car passes the ship. A strange name for a ship, you think to yourself. The car stops, a sign that you have reached your destination and it is time to put on a smile.

Even before your feet hit solid ground, William stands resolutely in the midst of his comrades-in-arms, deeply engrossed in a speech.

A smile curls your lips as you make your way to his side. Your smile is reflected on the lips of the other wives, who also stand beside their husbands.

In the midst of the gathering, your gaze falls upon the captain of the ship, a prominent figure emerging from the sanctuary of the vessel. He embodies the essence of a leader. His portly figure is crowned by a cap, behind which hides hair made silver by time and experience.

He greets the ladies with a gallant gesture and gives each hand a gentle kiss. Inside, your familiar heaviness weighs on your chest, a weight that threatens to impede the rising and falling of your breath, but you wear your smile undaunted like an ornate mask.

With a fluid movement, the captain turns his attention to the gentlemen, and together they enter the waiting ship. The men walk ahead of their wives, almost like obedient dogs you trot along behind them. You are led to the upper deck and find yourself in the midst of cramped quarters. You realize that the men are doing their work in this confined space day after day, entangled in the toils of war.

Your thoughts are momentarily interrupted as you come face to face with the assembled crew. A disciplined line of sailors stands before you, and as the eyes of the sailors notice the presence of the women, a chorus of whistles sounds playfully through the air. Quickly, the captain steps in and restores decorum to his ranks. With a mixture of curiosity and fascination, you gaze at the unfamiliar faces until your gaze lingers on a pair of steely blue eyes. Unable to break the connection, you feel trapped as his gaze seems to peer into the depths of your soul.

Suddenly, a faint smile graces his lips, making your heart flutter. As if in a trance, you avert your gaze, and a blush of surprise coats your cheeks as you notice William at your side. His arm wraps around your waist. You return his gaze. There is a slight irritation in William's gaze as he notices the color of your cheek. But the blank smile replaces his irritation almost immediately.

"Come on, let's leave the smelly guys behind, we're going to the banquet hall," he whispers to you. You make an effort to agree with him with a gentle smile and a subtle nod. You turn and follow William down the path into the hall, steel-blue gazes lingering on you until you disappear completely from his view.

Entering the banquet hall, you are led to a table where influential elite are gathered. An interplay of cigar smoke and the amber swirl of whiskey dances through the air. Laughter resounds like a melody, even if some of the banter is not particularly sophisticated. The tightness in your chest almost incessantly present.

From time to time you eat a snack from your plate and occasionally take a delicate sip of wine, but the moments drag on like an eternity. The steel-blue eyes do not leave your thoughts. At some point you are so absorbed that you no longer notice much of the conversations around you.

"What do you think of that?" William asks you suddenly. You look at him a little startled, "Apologise. What did you mean?" you ask him.

"Little silly... Caught up in your thoughts again...", he chuckles lightly.

"George here just had the idea that it would be a wonderful idea to join the sailors on the ship for a day," William says to you.

"Why would that be?" it slips out.  William laughs lightly and the other men agree.

"Well, so that we can show that the elite care about these men," William answers your question.

You look at him. You have little to no desire to spend time on a ship. But you smile slightly and nod slightly.

"Excuse me," you say quietly and stand up from the table. With purposeful steps you walk towards the bar as a slight ache returns to your chest, almost overwhelming in its intensity, seeking comfort. The bartender greets you with a warm smile and your request for a martini is effortlessly fulfilled. Conversation is minimal, words an unnecessary bridge to your needs.

As the martini stands before you, embodying in its clear form the calm you wish to feel within you, you do not hesitate for long. With practised ease, you lift the glass and its contents find refuge within you in a single, deliberate movement. You pinch your eyes shut briefly as the liquid fire flows down your throat, leaving a stimulating trail in its wake.

As you awaken from this fleeting reverie, you become aware of a presence beside you. A subtle jolt of surprise runs through you, only to be quickly replaced by recognition - those steel blue eyes, captivating and familiar, are upon you again. A soft blush adorns your cheeks once more, accompanied by a barely audible clearing of the throat, a modest attempt to regain your composure in the face of this unexpected encounter.

"Hello, love...", he says in his deep voice, "... I'm Tom," he smiles at you.

You can't help but surrender to his voice. A smile spreads across your face.

His gaze bores into yours again and he too begins to smile. Only his seems to be surrounded by a lightness.

"Don't ya want to tell me your name?" he finally says.

You chuckle lightly and shake your head gently.

"Excuse me. Hello Tom, I'm y/n," you finally say.

His smile widens and exposes his slightly crooked teeth. His smile makes you feel warmth in your chest where otherwise there is only room for the usual heaviness.

"Hello y/n. And... ya like to drink alone?", he asks you without his gaze leaving you.

Your gaze goes from his smile back to his eyes, "Well... Sometimes that is the only thing that helps you," you say honestly and order another drink.

Tom watches you intently, his gaze fixed on the fine furrow in your brow and the heaviness that envelops your smile. The fact that your smile does not reach your eyes strikes him almost immediately. Clearly a weight rests on your thoughts. He chooses silence rather than words, however, and lets his attentive gaze rest on you.

As you also take your next drink almost in one go, Tom reacts gently yet firmly as you put the glass down. He grabs your hand, an unspoken invitation for you to follow him. A shock of surprise runs through you, but the alcohol in your veins transforms your reaction into an unexpected giggle.

Amidst the pulsating rhythm of the dance floor, he brings you to a standstill. Couples sway and spin around you, a sea of movement and you in the midst of it. You can't help but smile, and your joy is reflected in Tom's expression. His hand is on your hip, and his other hand tenderly intertwines his fingers with yours.

"What are you doing?" you ask quietly, but still smiling.

"Well... love... I think it's called dancing," he says cheekily as he begins to lead you across the dance floor.

Enveloped in an irrepressible lightness, your laughter blends in harmoniously. His steps, which deviate from the usual dance steps, find a unique cadence that stages a dance all its own. Amidst the elegance emanating from the neighbouring couples, your finesse may differ, but with each passing moment, his rhythm becomes a familiar melody for you.

A perpetual grin adorns Tom's face, proof of the joy that unites you in this improvised waltz you dance together. With each successive step, the distance between you decreases and the feeling of his touch makes its way through your bodies like a gentle current. The longer the dance goes on, the more its warmth becomes an embrace that you long for. The outside world no longer exists for you.

But like a curtain falling over a fleeting act, the pleasure is abruptly interrupted. Unexpectedly, William appears in front of you and interrupts the enchanting choreography.

"Y/n. What are you doing?" he asks you, without even giving Tom a glance.

"Well... I think it's called dancing," you say before you realise how cheeky your answer is. The alcohol and Tom's lightness rubbing off on you make you answer.

William looks at you, doesn't make a face. But suddenly a small smile appears on his lips, but you know that smile.

"Of course..." is all he says before he grabs your wrist and pulls you along. You cast a fleeting glance over your shoulder and see Tom looking after you, his steel-blue eyes gazing at you almost longingly. In this quick moment, you don't get a chance to say goodbye.

As your attention returns to William, you realise that his gaze is fixed firmly on you, an intensity that makes you shudder.

"You will not disrespect me like that again, is that clear?" he hisses in your ear as he pulls you closer to him.

"You can't just dance with the pack!" he adds.

You glare at him as he literally pulls you outside and comes to a stop.

"You want to spend a day on the ship with this pack, but I can't dance with this pack?" you ask him.

Your head flies to the side as you feel the blow against your cheek. A beeping sounds in your ear and you gasp slightly. Your eyes are squeezed shut and tears rise almost simultaneously, but you try to ignore the pain.

"Do you want to offer yourself as a whore because you disagree with something?" he hisses at you.

Your cheek throbs and you have trouble following William's words. You hold your cheek with your hand, hoping that the pain will subside. Slowly you turn your gaze back to William.

"I will not tolerate my wife behaving like this. And you will obey me," he almost shouts at you, emphasising every word with his raised index finger pointed at you. You say nothing, not a word passes your lips. You just nod slightly, your hand still on your cheek.

Silently, William leads you to the car, his grip tight and locked around your upper arm. He literally barks at the smoking driver that he wants a ride home immediately.

Your cheeks are on fire, the blow leaves a rosy hue, and your tears, by now running down your cheek, give your skin an almost glistening touch.

A heavy silence prevails the whole time, and you do not perceive a single word from William's lips. When you arrive at the house, you retreat to your room without many words. Seeking refuge from his presence that night.

Nestled in a cocoon of blankets and pillows, your gaze rises to the ceiling as your thoughts weave a tapestry of memories. Your mind wanders to Tom - his laughing gestures, the way his touch ignited as he led you across the dance floor. The abrupt end, heralded by William. You roll onto your side and snuggle against your pillow, its soft embrace giving you comfort. But before you can think about it further, sleep envelops you and takes hold of your consciousness.

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

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@aemonds-wifey @hoshi-miharu-blog @arryn-nyx @aemonds-eyeball @praline357 @melsunshine @drinking-tea-and-be-obsessed @lauftivy @bellaisasleep @snh96

[mybeautifuldelirium]

Centuries Apart Part 2 || Aemond Targaryen x got!Reader

CHAPTER LIST (plz read or it might not make much sense)

A/N: here’s part 2 lovelies xx hope you enjoy how the story unfolds

Lmk if u want part 3

Summary: How are Y/N and Aemond going to react to their betrothal and will Y/N learn how to adapt and survive in this era of ambition and cruelty and can she learn to tolerate her husband to be?

Warnings: angst, forced marriage, idk if this would be considered incest tbh lol

“Perhaps becoming your wife and bearing your heirs will keep her faithful” Otto grinned, caressing Y/N’s silver locks.

These words, these damned words, they echoed through the throne room like a curse, all faces, once again staring in disbelief.

“Father, you don’t mean this” Alicent’s eyes widened as she walked in front of her younger son as if trying to protect him from a dangerous beast “You won’t sacrifice my son to this witch”

“Mother” Aemond whispered, gently placing his hand on Alicent’s shoulder “With all due respect, grandfather, don’t you believe there are more favorable options for a union that could actually bring forth valuable allies?” The prince scowled with disgust as he glanced at Y/N.

“The decision is final and I believe, his grace, king Aegon would agree to its benefits” Otto raised his voice, turning his head towards the young king with a stern look on his face.

“And what makes you believe I’d agree to this?” Y/N finally spoke up in disbelief, after the initial shock of the news had just washed away “I’m a Targaryen princess, the blood of the dragon, not a slave or a broodmare for sale. This was never part of my offer of alliance-”

“Silence woman” Aegon stood up from the throne, making his way towards the girl “We are being merciful enough to spare your life and put our trust in your guidance. You are to marry my brother and pledge your loyalty to the crown if you so value our house’s future, as you claim” he smirked, locking his gaze with Aemond’s displeased one “Right, dear brother?”

The one eyed prince scoffed at the king’s words, the very same king who moments ago was desperately begging him for help to flee the Crownlands, now playing the part of a ruler. But Aemond knew better than to disobey the crown, he nodded and gave an almost unnoticeable bow to Aegon before storming out of the hall, the same way he had entered.

“It is settled then, the wedding will take place in a fortnight” Otto smirked deviously “Lady Y/N we will be sure to provide you with a maid and a private chamber, that is until you are to share the one of your future husband”

The girl wanted to protest, she wanted to scream or run far away, she had seen what her sister had endured after being sold as a bride to Khal Drogo and now this same fate seemed to come upon her. This was not how things were supposed to go, none of this was according to her plan but she knew there was no way back she knew that this was her only chance to change the fate of House Targaryen.

-

Her chambers were modest in size yet still lavishly decorated with gold and expensive fabrics. Y/N was sitting on the small daybed, gazing through the window. Her whole life she had dreamed of living in this very castle, the home of her ancestors that was taken away from her family, but now this beautiful childhood dream had turned into a cruel curse.

“M-my lady” the timid voice of a young girl brought the princess back from her thoughts “I-I’m Lysa, I was appointed to serve as your maid”

She looked no older than five and ten, a scrawny thing with golden locks, tied into two simple braids.

“That won’t be necessary” Y/N mumbled, returning her attention towards the view from the window “I’m perfectly capable of handling myself”

“Please my lady, the hand will punish me if I defy his orders” Lysa fell to her knees, her eyes filled with desperation and dread “I promise to be loyal and serve you faithfully”

These words made Y/N stand up from her spot and approach the young girl, perhaps having someone loyal by her side, could prove beneficial in this realm of ambition and cruelty “Ok then, but you’re to serve only me, you’ll be my eyes and ears in this castle, I am to know everything that goes on and I will swear to protect you” she whispered, a slight smirk playing on her lips. If they wanted her to play a part of their game by their rules, she was sure to do so.

“Of course my lady, I promise, thank you” Lysa hastily nodded in relief.

-

A feast was to be held in honor of the new king, a deceitful attempt to bring forth alliances from the noble houses.

“Your dress for the feast, my lady” Lysa entered Y/N’s chambers, holding a simple emerald green gown with gold stitchings “Her grace, queen Alicent chose it for you”

“I want another dress, bring me the dressmaker” the princess furrowed her brows “Those are not the colors of my house”

“But, t-the queen”

“You serve me, Lysa. Don’t you forget our deal” Y/N whispered, a dark smile lingering on her lips.

-

An elegant black dress with striking red embroidery was the one she chose, her silver looks tied into intricate braids, mimicking the ones her sister Daenerys always used to wear. Many heads were turned as Y/N entered the great hall, all curious eyes, staring at the unknown Targaryen maiden.

She looked over at the table of the royal family, meeting the disapproving gaze of Alicent.

“Ah, glad to have you join us, lady Y/N” Aegon sneered “Why don’t you sit by your future husband”

The girl mumbled something under her breath as she took her seat besides Aemond who was yet to acknowledge her presence.

“I see you’ve worn a different dress” the queen flashed a fake smile “Was the one I sent, perhaps not to your likings?”

“It was a lovely garment, your grace, but I deem it more appropriate to represent the colors of my house as you do yours” Y/N grinned slyly, taking a sip of her wine.

“I think you look ravishing in it, my lady” Aegon smirked “Don’t you agree dear brother? Or perhaps you’d rather see your lovely betrothed without it?” he laughed, nudging at the younger prince’s arm.

Y/N cringed at the indecorous remark, briefly glancing at Aemond who seemed uninterested in the whole ordeal, yet she could have sworn that just moments ago, he had been eyeing her.

“Let’s have a toast to the betrothal of my beloved brother” Aegon stood up lifting his golden goblet “May you have a very progenitive marriage” he glanced at Y/N with a sly grin.

“Thank you, your grace, I would also like to toast to my future wife who is at last to become a true member of house Targaryen” Aemond smirked deviously, finally allowing his gaze to openly travel to Y/N’s face.

This crude insinuation ignited a fire of rage in the young princess as she abruptly got up, splashing her wine at Aemond’s smug face.

The entirety of the hall fell silent, Y/N could almost feel Alicent and Otto’s angry stares burning holes on her back while Aegon was sniggering like a child.

The realization of what she had done in front of all those noble houses suddenly hit her and before the prince was able to curse her out, she was kneeling before him with a small rag in her hand.

“Oh, forgive my clumsiness, my prince, here, allow me to help you” the girl innocently batted her eyelashes at the one eyed prince who was staring back at her in disbelief.

Promptly, the feast endured, people long forgotten about the incident. While Y/N was wiping away the wine off Aemond’s face, she carefully examined his features. His expression was blank but she could sense the anger and humiliation through his presence.

Her eyes fell on the deep scar, appearing from under his eyepatch, she had heard tales of how the infamous Targaryen prince had lost his eye and she knew of the precious sapphire that had taken its place, making her wonder if she’d ever see it.

As she gently slid the rag near the scar, unexpectedly, Aemond’s hand firmly grabbed hers.

“Be careful next time, my lady, this ‘clumsiness’ could cost you much one day” he smirked

“I’m not a mere lady, my prince, I’m a princess” Y/N hissed, abruptly pulling her hand from his grip.

-

The remainder of the feast was rather uneventful in comparison to the prior affairs. Y/N had decided to take a small stroll through the keep in hopes of clearing her mind, oh how she wished Dany could be there with her. The princess’s eyes welled up at the thought of her sister but something or rather someone lurking in the shadows brought her back to reality.

“Up so late, dear bride” the dreadfully familiar voice of Aemond echoed through the corridor as he revealed himself “Don’t you deem inappropriate for a betrothed lady to wander alone at this hour?” His taunting words sent shivers down her back.

“I don’t believe I shall need your permission, my prince”

“Oh but you do, am I not to be your lord husband?” He sneered, twisting a silver lock of her hair between his pale fingers “You got what you wanted, didn’t you? At least now your babes will be true Targaryens”

“Gaomagon daor tymagon lēda nyke, ñuha dārilaros. Kesā jiōragon zaltan” (do not toy with me, my prince; you will get burned) Y/N spat, taking a step towards him.

For a mere second, a look of disbelief washed over Aemond’s face, but he was quick to pull back his composure.

“Oh, sīr īlva riña gīmigon se Valyrīha ēngos?” (oh, so our lady knows the Valyrian tongue?) the prince inquired, the sly smirk returning on his lips.

“Dōrī nārhēdegon, ñuha dārilaros, eman se ānogar hen zaldrīzes isse nyke. Valyrio muño ēngos ñuhys issa” (never forget, my prince, I have the blood of the dragon. Valyrian is my mother tongue) she deviously grinned back at him before heading back towards her chambers. ‘Twas a game, she was prepared to play.

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@mysticalmermaidlove

[heretherebedork]

While I spent most of wedding impossible just being frustrated by it, some of the scenes actually disgusted me. The biggest one was Jihan telling Dohan the first time he was ever ashamed of Dohan was because Dohan "used someone" to cover up being gay. And then when Dohan rightfully points out that he and Ahjeong agreed on this both fully knowing the situation, Jihan says Dohan shouldn't have dragged her into it? And that Dohan and Ahjeong agreeing on this marriage means Dohan doesn't care about Ahjeong? I'm sorry but there is literally NOTHING morally wrong about a consensual bearding relationship. Ahjeong and Dohan are two adults in their 30s who made a decision after discussions and deliberations. Jihan is acting like Ahjeong is some vulnerable child without any agency being held hostage by evil manipulative Dohan. It's like a weird intersection of homophobia and misogyny. For the first time in this show Dohan is actually being selfish, and I don't really blame him! No one is giving him literally any grace. Ahjeong sort of acknowledges that Dohan's feelings after finding out about her and Jihan makes sense. But no one has literally any empathy for Dohan and what he's going through, which has way higher stakes than a man and a woman wanting to date because they just can't live without each other after liking each other for what, a few weeks at most? I already believed the writers have to be straight based on the previous episodes, but this episode makes me think they have literally never talked to a gay person either.

Yeah, the way they treated Ah Jeong's choices and Ji Han's.... enrtire character... made the show painful if you understood anything about Do Han or even just tried to believe the show that they were friends and loving siblings.

Because if you took the show by its actions rather than it's words? You would never believe that Do Han and Ah Jeong were best friends of over a decade or that Ji Han ever loved Do Han and I mean that. I truly do.

But yeah. It's a big thing that there's just no empathy for Do Han and it's based in the idea of never lying and it's not just unpleasant but literally the entire ending was about how life is all made of lies and it's okay and it made no sense with the rest of the show.

Do Han was selfish for about five minutes in the entire show and it was brought on by his own fear of coming out which was totally understandable and then the show just took that away from him too by having his grandfather stop his first coming out to let Ji Han just... throw everything out for no reason, by the way, no reason whatsoever because, let's be honest, Do Han was never going to accept inheriting the business. He was never going to do that. He's a damn artist! Why would be agree to be a businessman!? He wasn't going to!

And then to have all of that, to have his grandfather call him SELFISH for trying to come out and then to just have that all be okay and fine and hunky dory at the end with no issues in the family!? With no actual resolution to any of it? No conversation between Do Han and Ji Han? No final talk with the grandfather? Nothing!? Just Do Han comes out and bam everything is healed because now he's not lying uwu

Do Han was given no grace or empathy and the show basically said 'it's a good thing someone outed him because that meant he stopped lying' and that is just an awful take to share with the world, damnit.

Ji Han was a bad brother and Ah Jeong was a mediocre friend and the show could have done it so much better.

You know what I want?

I want Thailand to remake this,

They know how to do besties and siblings. They could make it work! And they'd absolutely give Do Han a romance.

[movedtolilmouzee]

hihii i reallyyy love ur writing!! can i request for bonten!mikey, ran and timeskip!hanma cheating on their wife with fem!reader. like maybe make the reader a villain in this fic. sorry if it's weird u can ignore it if u want. have a great day and make sure to drink water <33

ℑ𝔱 𝔞𝔩𝔩 𝔠𝔬𝔪𝔢𝔰 𝔠𝔯𝔞𝔰𝔥𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔡𝔬𝔴𝔫 𝔢𝔳𝔢𝔫𝔱𝔲𝔞𝔩𝔩𝔶...

𝘊𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘈𝘭𝘤𝘰𝘩𝘰𝘭, 𝘔𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩, 𝘈𝘯𝘨𝘴𝘵, 𝘛𝘰𝘹𝘪𝘤 𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱𝘴, 𝘙𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘏𝘢𝘯𝘮𝘢 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘯𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘦, 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘯𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘺 𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴.

(𝘡𝘦𝘦'𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘦- 𝘏𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘰, 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘯. 𝘚𝘰 𝘨𝘭𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘸𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴, 𝘐 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘦𝘯𝘫𝘰𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘢𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘭! 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘦𝘹𝘵𝘳𝘢 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘧𝘶𝘭, 𝘴𝘰 𝘐 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 <3.)

Nights of fighting, screaming at each other until one of you lost your voice, so much venom being spit at each other finally took its toll. Mikey finally found himself in bed with another woman, someone who didn't even bother to ask how his day was, didn't listen to him rant about himself, she wasn't you and never would be but Mikey couldn't stop. Something about her intoxicated him, made him continue coming back for more until you finally caught them. The look of utter disgust is what snatched Mikey back the the reality of what he'd done, he threw 2 years down the drain because of another argument that could of been worked through. This was the first time you'd seen Mikey show an emotion, it took the words "I hate your fucking guts, I hope you rot in hell" for him to break down crying fully understanding that he fucked up and fully lost you for good. Everything fell apart the moment you left, Mikey had finally been brought to his feet by you giving away his every plan to anyone who paid well enough. You were going to ruin his life just as he ruined yours.

Saying you fell head over heels with Ran was an understatement, you fell for ran like a puppy finding its new owner. Everyone warned you it wasn't going to end pretty, even Rindou warned you but you always pushed the worries and anxiety filled nights to the side when Ran came home, giving you a kiss on the head before going to bed. The warnings from everyone quickly became your reality. Coming home early with a few friends to help you set up for your anniversary, everyone quickly got silent when all eyes landed on a random girl and ran naked in the livingroom. You couldn't even tell if seeing that Ran seemed to enjoy the look of hurt and sadness on your face or the fact that he didn't even care you saw and wanted to leave. Rans last words to you "I'm sad I marries her and not you."

How you ended up with hanma seemed like it was straight out of a fairy tale. Taking him in after kisakis death, being the only person there for him and offering your home to him. You should of known that agreeing to date and even say yes to hanmas marriage proposal was a bad idea, you saw hanma go out with a new girl everynight and immediately ghost them after getting what he wanted, you had to lie for him when they showed up to your house. Even though hanma was a walking red flag, you simply ignored it and stayed with him only to end up hating yourself. Hanma wasn't husband material and finally it showed when hanma no showed on your dinner date, ignored your messages when all you wanted to know that he was ok, the icing on top was when hanma "accidentally" send you the other girls nudes and videos and got upset when you wanted to leave him. Four long hours of you both screaming at each other and your friends having to help you collect your things, hanma stopped caring his last words to you "You're just jealous, you weren't her in bed with me."

[pottahishotasf]

── 𝓓𝓮𝓷𝓲𝓪𝓵 ──

Tom Riddle x Reader Summary ▻ You are currently dealing with a situation where you are forced to be married and a confession that seemed to change your point of view. Warning(s) ▻ Tom and Mattheo are brothers because I said so. Tom is still a fucking asshole. Feelings. Denial. Mentions of alcohol and someone being drunk. accidental confession. thank you very much. Okay not all purebloods are related. I have to say this because its disgusting I FUCKING HATE INCEST. Word Count ▻ 800+

ɴᴀᴠɪɢᴀᴛɪᴏɴ | ᴍᴀɪɴ ᴍᴀꜱᴛᴇʀʟɪꜱᴛ | ᴛᴀɢʟɪꜱᴛ

"I do not like her nor do I give a fuck about her." He sneered at Mattheo.

Mattheo on the other hand just stared at him, his face showed his interest to infuriate his brother further and get him to admit the truth - as it already is visible in his actions - that his brother, somehow never thought about.

"One more word about her, I'm gonna feed you to Nagini."

Mattheo stood up without a single sign of fear as Tom is his brother and he knows him very well.

He does care about you, he doesn't even know how to hide it - the lingering gazes, the longing look he has as he gazes at you from afar, the constant stealing glances that he cannot seem to control.

In plain words, he turns into an incredibly clumsy person - or a dimwit should he say - around you.

Arrange marriage. The situation you're currently in.

It wasn't that bad, especially when you both agreed that you can hook up with whomever you please as long as you return home the next morning.

Every time after a party or some kind of an event, the pair of you would have a sit on the small cushion in your room with a glass of champagne or wine on your hands and normally share each of your last night's experience.

Well, he lies.

He'll admit in his past relationships, he had a ton of sex, but he suddenly stopped when he found out he was in an arrange marriage with you.

And all he wanted to do was to do it with you - do everything with you. not just sex, but also those sweet stuff that couples do.

Although, it seems impossible to hear such a thing especially coming from Tom's perspective - he still cannot deny how bad he wants to have that.

The way he'd love to go down on you each time he gets. He has never been this desperate for a woman and it drives him mad.

And that change of behaviour sure did surprise everyone - even his own brother was surprised by this.

Sure, he was still mean and a fucking ass hole but he wasn't the kind like his past - pulling any woman of his choice and fuck them senseless in a room or preferably just use their mouth in a dim lighted corridor like they're just useless things that he could buy or borrow.

And an improvement that Mattheo would like to include that he haven't seen any woman roaming around the Manor after they had sex or no going to the pub without you.

And he always has the same reason for everything "I want to make them proud." And by 'them' their parents.

He was offended when you didn't look interested the first time you were told about the arrangement. You looked at your parents as if they said something that offended you - so he offered the mentioned idea and you were quick to say yes.

***

Mattheo started teasing him about his relationship with you when:

***

One night, you went to a party with all the guest part of the sacred 28 - meaning, you were required to go.

You wore a black dress that night - his favorite - with a pair of heels that seem to match his clothing.

You were forced to greet each and everyone, kindly - while Tom stood beside you, his face full of seriousness that guests wouldn't even dare to glance at his direction. He nudges your shoulder once in a while to stop you from rolling your eyes.

Later that night, a beautiful woman invited you to their room to play "chess" - however, you didn't accept the offer knowing your fiance would get drunk tonight.

Tom is going to be pissed drunk tonight - don't tell him I told you that.

Thanks Mattheo.

No worries.

Mattheo left early not wanting to be responsible of his brother and carry him to the room the pair of you share upstairs.

***

You spotted him sitting - laying on the couch in one of the rooms - he was alone - passed out drunk.

Getting near him you almost gagged from the musky scent of alcohol.

"Bloody fucking hell, you smell like shit." You muttered. "Come on, get up."

Pulling his limp body up, you groaned and thought about how nice it would be to have Mattheo with you right this instant.

"You're definitely a lovely woman to fuck, but I have a fiancé who I like a lot. She'll get mad and kill you before I even can." He slurred.

"What in Merlin's left ball sack are you talking about?"

"Her name is Y/n. She's really pretty - no, beautiful. I still partly hate her though."

You dropped Tom on the bed and chuckled at his confession as he continued "She has a pair of beautiful eyes and her lips - oh her lips - I would kill to just give it a single bloody peck - Shh - don't tell her that."

Mattheo witnessed all of that, as he was just following behind you, just in case you needed an extra hand.

His eyes were wide as just his smile - he discovered that he was right all along.

His brother did like you.

A/n: This is an update because I haven't been posting and yes. I just taught of this and wrote it like a fucking asshole.

ʟɪᴋᴇꜱ, ᴄᴏᴍᴍᴇɴᴛꜱ, ʀᴇʙʟᴏɢꜱ ᴀɴᴅ ꜰᴇᴇᴅʙᴀᴄᴋꜱ ᴀʀᴇ ᴠᴇʀʏ ᴍᴜᴄʜ ᴀᴘᴘʀᴇᴄɪᴀᴛᴇᴅ!!

@maelycious @slvtfor-gingerpubes @kimorna @dracoslittleangel @honeymunson @raajali3

[paintdlady]

A Long Engagement (pt. 1)

Wyll Ravengard x Tav / Arranged marriage AU

Word count: 5,225

Tav stared at the robe laid out across their neatly made bed, its navy color easily drew one’s eye to the embroidered constellation of silver stars stitched along the collar and across the sleeve cuffs. At the center of each star was a small white gemstone, twinkling in the soft candlelight. By sight alone, they could tell that it was truly a lovely garment, so subtly intricate and so unlike anything their parents would select.

It made Tav’s stomach twist in a sharp knot because nowadays such an intimate gift could only mean two things:

One: another suitor had come calling.

Two: Tav’s parents liked this one.

Most gifts were left in the reception hall to be personally hand delivered to an impassive Tav, and it always took everything in them to not look completely disgusted or bored.

But today’s gift was terrifying because it was grand and only grew lovelier the longer they admired it.

Swallowing thickly around the tight collar of anxiety, Tav finally dared to take a step closer and ran a careful finger along the constellations. Quickly, they were drawn towards a certain diagonal line of stars, the third of which was flanked by two smaller stars and created the shape of a dagger. Jassa’s Dagger.

Precious few knew this, but that was their favorite constellation. Was it also one of the few they could identify with ease? Yes. But that didn’t lessen their excitement. Whenever they found themself beneath the night’s dark blanket, Tav always looked for the dagger first.

From behind them, Tav could hear their bedroom door quickly open and close. Their hand flew to their bathrobe, clutching the collar close to hide away their once exposed chest.

“What are you doing just standing about, dear? Supper is nearly finished, and you should’ve been out of the bath ages ago! Please don’t tell me you were composing ballads in the tub again, you really ought to take more breaks from songwriting, it’s becoming an obsession-”

“Who sent this?” Tav asked, glancing behind to find their mother and her handmaiden, Estella approaching. “It’s a bold gift…”

“As bold as tonight’s guests. You should wear it, I believe it’ll most please them to see you sporting the beautiful robe.” Mother’s delight emanated from her, from the twinkle in her eyes to the hop in her step.

“Mother-“

“Don’t you agree, Estella?” Mother suddenly asked, cutting Tav off.

“Yes, ma’am,” the handmaiden nodded, she was just as eager as her lady if the look in her eye was to be trusted. Estella had always adored dressing Tav up, and delighted in any given reason to do so. Today was no exception. “If I may add, it would pair nicely with the young saer’s satin slippers and the silver chain belt Master Agustin gifted them just a tenday ago.”

“That’s a wonderful idea. My husband does so love spoiling Tav with the finest accessories.”

“Let me rephrase, mother,” Tav huffed. “What is the name of tonight’s most generous guest?”

But no answer came, not immediately. Mother’s smile remained as level as usual, reaching out to their child just to smooth the wrinkle from their brow.

“Must you always be so scrupulous, my pride and joy? Nobody would think less of you for just enjoying the gifts lavished upon you from time to time. Nothing pleases the eye so much as a pretty flower in full bloom, I daresay it’s even good for the heart,” she told them.

“Must you be so vexing?” they grumbled, begrudgingly accepting the powder blue tunic and a pair of black trousers from Estella.

“You will thank me for this someday,” Mother cooly replied as she turned to where Tav kept their jewelry box, more interested in finding the right gems for her child to wear tonight than fight the same old argument over again.

Tav ducked behind the folding screen to change into their clothes. Future spouse or not, Tav didn’t think it appropriate to greet their guests in nothing but their undergarments.

“You know the Beartails just handed their child away to the first bidder. Some…” Mother paused and her face scrunched as she waved her hand, likely thinking of a polite way to say ‘ass-hat’. “Some precocious cartographer, I believe. He teaches at an academy to actually make ends meet. You should be so glad your father cares for your comfort that he’d never settle for such a low earner.”

Personally, a cartographer seemed a fine career to Tav. Had they had the freedom to do so, they would’ve loved exploring the lands and drawing maps with nothing but their own skills and the silver lady, Selune, as their guide.

“A cartographer is not a stable career,” their mother said with such sharpness that it was almost as if she could read Tav’s very own thoughts.

“I didn’t even say anything!” They snapped back with a roll of their eyes, rounding the privacy screen.

“Would you like to fix your tone for me, Tavana?” Her cold and even voice made Tav stiffen. Their gaze dropped to the ground at their feet, not daring to look at her as she continued. “I think you’ll be far happier if you had a better attitude and were more kind to your parents who just want the best for you. Imagine being grateful for having people who care about you, wouldn’t that be nice?”

A heavy, oppressive silence filled the bedchamber as mother waited for Tav to answer her. But first they had to swallow the lump in their throat, neatly tucking away the ugliness that quelled within them. The unthinkable thoughts could not surface now.

“I’m sorry, mother.” Tav finally said. They didn’t want to be ungrateful. And mother was right, they didn’t have to hold off on promising Tav’s hand to anyone. It was an act of their love that they sent away any of the suitors who were too old or capricious, allowing Tav to even say no so long as they met their would-be spouse at least once and tried.

There were families who did not mind who their children wed so long as their coin purse was heavy or their reputation gilded enough. To marry for love was a rarity, it was a privilege that nobility sacrificed for the greater good of society - their allegiances had to be made with the politics of the world in mind. Tav’s tutor had done well to impart this knowledge upon Tav constantly throughout the years. In turn, it was their duty to weigh all the pros and cons of each suitor and settle with someone who came close to their most important ideals.

“I forgot myself,” they quietly added.

With a huge sigh, mother pulled Tav close enough to put the selected diamond earrings on for them. And then she took a moment to examine her child’s face. “You are my pride and joy, my little gem. I take no pleasure in pushing you so hard, you know this. But your father and I want to know you are well taken care of, and this is a good opportunity.”

“I do, I know,” they quickly assured. “You and father do me a great kindness, I shouldn’t react so hastily.”

“Good. Now be a good child and let Estella help you finish dressing. You must look good for our guests tonight,” mother paused thoughtfully, taking Tav’s chin in her hand, “for the Ravengards.”

She took only a moment to revel in the gobsmacked expression on Tav’s face, smugly grinning at them before she swept out of the room to resume her duties as hostess.

While still processing this information, Estella slipped the robe on Tav, adjusting the collar so it would sit properly and better show off the embroidery.

“Is it true, Estella?” They asked. “Is it really the Ravengards?”

The amused smile on the handmaiden’s face was all the answer they needed.

Of all the houses Tav would have guessed, the Ravengards were not within the first seven they would have thought of. That wasn’t a slight upon them, it was only that they were still new to high society. The family conformed in some ways, and took liberties where they pleased.

On the rare occasions Tav had been in the same room as the patriarch, Grand Duke Ulder Ravengard had an air of stern propriety and intimidated them with just a passing glance. From his bones to his armor, the man was a warrior and leader tried true. Tav never would have guessed he, nor his son, would have interest in building alliances this way, nor such fine taste in garments. It just didn’t seem the sort of thing they would have put much thought to.

But perhaps the patriarch’s work with the Flaming Fist and later as a duke had brought him into acquaintance with a dressmaker who did care more than enough for everyone, because this robe was truly a work of wonders.

While cotton was an accessible fabric for everyone regardless of their wealth status, the cotton of this robe was so incredibly soft. It had been woven with such great care that Tav found it just as pretty as silk, but thankfully more breathable - they appreciated the fact their body heat could escape and not leave them on the verge of a sweating mess as Estella sat them before the vanity table and fixed their hair and makeup.

If they wanted, they could probably steal away to the training yard and take a few good wacks at a practice dummy to blow off a little steam after supper while the adults moved to the parlor. Tav wasn’t dedicated to the blade, but they did enjoy the occasional opportunity to release their pent up frustration and hit something every now and then. So the practicality of the garment was probably what Tav liked best about it if they were honest, thankful for something that didn’t limit their movement and require stillness. Many did not think of such things when ordering clothing for them.

“The young lord… this Wyll. I’m not sure I’ve had the pleasure of meeting him in person, it seems we’ve always just missed one another at social events. I hear he’s good with the blade though,” Tav mused, tilting their head up so Estella could line their eyes with kohl.

“Oh, he’s splendid! A real prodigy if I ever did see one - and I have, mind you. In fact, I saw him in a lower city tournament just months ago.”

“The lower city?” Tav asked, quietly amazed. Their own parents were so strict about letting them wander the lower city streets, there was no way they’d allow them to do that sort of thing. “How old is Wyll again, Estella?”

“He turned ten-and-six but a month ago.”

“So he’s a year younger than I,” they mumbled, brushing their fingers along the small gems at the cuff of their robe in thought. Sixteen years of age and the Ravengard heir was running through the streets like some sort of commoner. How reckless. As the marshal of the Flaming Fist, Tav thought Ulder would understand the dangers of the city best. And yet he allowed his son liberties that Tav’s strictly forbade out of concern for their safety. The mere idea of such a thing made Tav’s stomach twist with… with jealousy.

“Worry not, little gem. With Sir Wyll, you’ll hardly feel that year’s difference. He’s a clever child and already quite tall.” The handmaiden assured, misinterpreting the meaning of Tav’s words. Truthfully, they could hardly care about something like height. No, instead Tav wondered if they agreed to marry this Wyll Ravengard, could they play in the lower city too? Would he permit his spouse to follow him through the crowd, or would Tav only be exchanging one cage for another?

For ages, Tav had dreamt of exploring all the shops they passed on their way to Stormshore Tabernacle. Prayer was the only occasion when their parents would allow them out with only Estella by their side, and so Tav found freedom between incense, devotions, and lyre strings plucked in the name of Oghma himself.

“Careful, you’ll loosen them,” Estella warned, pulling Tav’s hands from fiddling at their finery.

“Right. Sorry, I was lost in my thoughts,” they confessed.

“What kind of thoughts?”

Estella’s question made Tav glance at her in the vanity mirror’s reflection while pushing thoughts of open air and cobblestone streets from their mind for now. Instead, they would speak of something light - something inconsequential and happy.

“Well, like if he’s handsome,” they answered with a coy smile.

An amused look crossed Estella’s face, interrupting her concentration just long enough to chuckle a little bit.

“A subjective matter, but yes. I suppose he is, that’s the common consensus. You’ll have to tell me your thoughts after you greet him.”

“Of course. It’d be nice to have someone to talk about my future husband with,” Tav conceded. The two shared a look, a moment of fleeting camaraderie not as employer and employee, but as two people who enjoyed swooning over the sweetest love songs and the most heartbreakingly doomed romance novels.

“Anytime, little gem. Now smile, we’re all ready!” Estella cheered as she gave one last final brush of iridescent powder to Tav’s cheekbones.

Rising to look at themself in the floor length mirror, Tav glanced at the handmaiden and could see she was quite proud of her work - and thinking of something.

“You’ve truly outdone yourself tonight,” they complimented, waiting to see what had the cogs in her mind turning so ferociously.

“I have, but that robe did most of the heavy lifting if we’re honest. When you have the time, could you perhaps ask Sir Ravengard who the tailor is? I think their work suits you well, we would do well to commission them for more pieces.” Estella said, for she had always had a keen eye for the latest fashions.

“I’m certain mother is already on it,” Tav assured, taking the offered silver chain belt and fastened it at their waist.

“She is most enterprising,” Estella smiled. “Now let us be off, saer.”

Giving the completed look one last gander, Tav quietly smoothed down their robes and then turned from one side to the other. They were, admittedly, quite pleased with their reflection. A flower in full bloom as mother had said. Now, it was off to see the hand that would pluck them if permitted.

“Right.” Withering with a wave of anxiety, Tav drew in a deep breath and slowly exhaled. This was for the best, mother and father would never endanger them.

“We already missed the initial reception, it’d be unseemly if we missed dinner.”

“Late for dinner? Oh my, now that’s a scandal that’ll shake the city itself,” Tav teased, following the handmaiden.

“It would,” Estella soberly agreed. “I pray they pardon your tardiness.”

“In my defense, I shouldn’t have been blindsided with this visit. Had I known, we would’ve had more time to prepare. Hells, I might’ve even been able to plan an impromptu trip out of the city,” Tav chuckled.

“Hush, this is an important matter at hand. I’ll hear nothing about running away, my poor nerves are dreadfully thin as it is,” Estella chided and then frowned when she received a delighted laugh in return.

All gleeful tittering came to a harsh stop when they rounded a corner and found a young man admiring one of the many paintings displayed in the hallway.

“M-Master Ravengard,” Estella stammered, giving a respectful bow of her head.

“Do forgive me for overhearing, but I hear Amn is lovely this time of year,” Ravengard said, slowly turning from the painting with his hands neatly folded together behind his back. His boyish smile faltered for a second as they made eye contact.

Oh. This was mortifying. Tav could not have dreamt a more embarrassing scenario than this, this was a nightmare. They had one objective tonight, and it was so damn simple they couldn’t have messed it up if they tried. All they had to do was charm their suitor and have them coming back, eager more than ever to make Tav their spouse.

And they had messed it up before they had even properly laid eyes upon him. Tav burned hot in embarrassment, bereft of any glee after being caught acting so uncouth.

“Tavana Silverwing?” Sir Wyll Ravengard guessed, eyeing them with an unreadable expression upon his face.

They looked to Estella, but the handmaiden very, very conveniently turned her head in the complete opposite direction at the very same time. The message was loud and clear: ‘you’re on your own, kid!’

“That is I,” they meekly replied finally, bracing for an offended lashing. They would deserve it after all. He’s gifted them a dazzling robe and they repaid his kindness with mockery. “Please, disregard what you heard, I was merely jesting. I truly appreciate the time and effort you’ve spared me, I just… I had no idea I was to expect company tonight and find myself… querulous.”

It was frustrating to be pinned beneath Sir Wyll’s gaze in such a horrible situation. On one hand, they wish he would get the confrontation over with, call them a spoiled brat and tell them he never wished to see them again. They would deserve it, Tav did not deny that. It was logical in the face of not being taken seriously. On the other hand, as this slow passing nightmare lingered, Tav could not stop themself from realizing how unbearably rich and lovely his eyes were. They were nearly the same shade as the dark tourmaline pin upon his lapel, glittering beautifully.

Finally, the young lord opened his mouth and he gave a hearty laugh, his amusement started Tav. But their befuddlement seemed to only egg him on more, which in turn made their body burn hotter.

“I’ve heard that your tongue is more silver than your wings, but to see it at play is a delight in itself,” the young Sir Ravengard chuckled as he watched Tav in all their bashful glory.

“You will have to forgive me for neither confirming nor denying that, sir. I- I’m not in the habit of talking about my tongue’s skill upon first meeting,” they replied with a humble bow, hoping to make him laugh more to salvage his impression of them.

From the quick raise of his eyebrows, he likely hadn’t expected such words to leave the mouth of the precious little gem of the Silverwing house. And yet he laughed, and Tav found he had a wonderful smile. “Apologies, saer. It seems I’ve gotten ahead of myself.”

“You’re forgiven so long as you can find it within yourself to accept my own apologies, Wyll Ravengard; student of the blade and, if my eyes do not deceive me, a connoisseur of the arts.”

“Then bygones are bygones,” he said. “I don’t know if I’d consider myself a connoisseur though, I merely stop and enjoy the flowers as I pass them.”

“And which flower has caught your eye so vehemently that you are out here in the hall while the party is inside?” Tav asked, looking across the wall that held many of their mother’s favorite pieces - an arrangement of ancestral portraits and historical events or landscapes.

“You.” Wyll’s voice was so soft, so painstakingly tender as he looked at the large family portrait. A confusing emotion nestled in Tav’s chest as they tried to discern his intentions and he continued. “I’ve admired your music for so long, but I don’t think I’ve ever been able to get a good look at the musician who can pluck so sweetly at the lyre that even the songbirds stop to listen. It’s nice to put a face to the melody.”

“You’ve heard me play?” It was the only thing they could think to ask in the midst of pure surprise.

“A few times. I’ve always wanted to come pay compliments to you whenever we were at the same social events, but you were always gone by the time I could peel myself away from the dancefloor.”

“Ah, yes. I’m not much for staying too late at such events,” they admitted. As much as they would love to participate in festivities, mother had them on a strict beauty regimen that included a full night’s rest. And Tav did not care for all the leering, the attention paid to them was so hungry at such events.

“Then allow me to compliment you now,” he said, pulling a flower from himself.

“Were you holding that the whole time?”

“Yes. I thought I’d give it to you when we first met, but then…” he slowly trailed off and Tav could feel their face burn.

“You overheard me talking about escape plans,” they groaned as they pressed their palms to their cheeks.

“I did mean what I said about Amn though,” he grinned.

“Ha. Ha. I’ll have you know I didn’t think you were just around the corner when I made that joke,” they whined.

“I suppose I have no choice but to believe you,” he continued to tease.

Suddenly, a roar of laughter came from further down the hall - the dining room. Tav could just faintly hear their father regaling a story from his old days, back when he sailed the sea and visited distant lands, trading goods and outwitting bad guys.

When Tav was still small, they had delighted in such tales, eagerly begging to hear them just before bedtime.

That felt like a lifetime ago.

“Your father has a real knack for storytelling, I don’t think I have ever been painted a more vivid picture. He makes one feel like they’re there on the journey with him. Is your home always this warm and cheerful?” Wyll asked, intending to compliment but must realize he hit a sore spot from the little furrow of Tav’s brow.

“It used to be…” they mumbled, but then quickly cleared their throat. “It’s no matter though, father is often away on business. Sacrifice begets privilege, and what matters most is that I know he loves me.” Whether their father liked them was a whole separate issue.

“That’s true,” Wyll nodded. “It’s a bit like me and my father. Sometimes he brings me to work with him, but sometimes he’s quite busy and I don’t see him for days on end.”

“Between the Fist and his ducal duties, I’m quite amazed he’s even found time for something like, well, this.”

Wyll chuckled with deep amusement. “That would be Counselor Florrick’s doing.”

“Ah. She is a woman with the most discerning eye.”

Of course Florrick would see the appeal of engaging Wyll and Tav together. The Silverwing family had a fair few merchants in their pocket and the respect of more old-fashioned houses. What sort of political move were they hoping to make? And how did it align with father’s interests? Tav tucked the query aside to mull over later when they had a moment’s peace for themself. For now it was important to play along with what they could infer their parents wanted from them: ensnare Wyll Ravengard’s attention, and seriously consider his hand in marriage.

“When Florrick first suggested this arrangement, I confess I wasn’t so sure what to think. But this… this has been both enlightening and a delight I will not soon forget. Do all courtings all begin like this?”

That amused Tav, making them quickly hide their mouth behind their hand when they couldn’t help but snort.

“Please, most first meetings with admirers bore me to tears. I shouldn’t say this, but the last admirer who came calling before you was so in love with the sound of their own voice, it made me want to swan dive into the ocean and never return,” they told him, making them both laugh.

“Sounds like they missed out on a lovely discussion, and I pity them for it.”

Tav paused then, surprised not by his compliment but his sincerity. It was laid out so plainly across his face and not hidden behind the usual snark or double entendres that Tav typically had to navigate through.

“You flatter me, sir-”

“Wyll. Just Wyll, please.”

“Oh. I-I couldn’t possibly, we’ve only just met,” Tav flustered between the beautiful robe and the idea of using his first name so soon. “It wouldn’t be proper, if someone overheard us-”

“What about in secret then, when it’s just us,” he suggested in a whisper, just low enough for them to hear. His warm breath against their ear made Tav smile despite themself.

“Very well then… Wyll.” His name slipped so slow and sweet from their mouth like honey.

“Thank you, Tavana.”

“Just Tav, please. I’m only Tavana when I’m in trouble and getting a scolding.”

“I’m sure we could find a little trouble if you’d like. Maybe a cliffside to practice our swan dives?”

Tav smiled back at him, “I would’ve taken you up on that offer last month. Tonight I’m quite keen to stop and admire the flowers.”

With a small step closer to him, Tav’s fingers ghosted over Wyll’s as they carefully plucked the flower from his hand. Somehow, they felt more flattered by this single bloom than any large bouquet previous suitors had pushed into their hands. At first glance, it was a humble offering. At second glance, it was as thoughtful as the robe he had gifted them.

“How did you manage to get such a beautiful flower from Lady Marie’s garden?” They asked. The old woman was so protective of her rare and exotic flowers, Tav wouldn’t have believed this gifted bloom came from her. But there was nowhere else in the city that could produce such a rare species as this. They knew this much because she had just been boasting about it at last week’s tea party she hosted to show them off.

“It’s not a very interesting story,” but his eyes beget a hint of mischief. “More importantly, your hands pluck only the finest and most perfect notes, I knew the same should be said of the petals that may find themselves between your fingers.”

“You… are an astoundingly good sweet-talker,” they chuckled as they rolled the stem between their fingers. “I fear my tongue is nothing but tin in comparison to yours.”

“If I recall correctly, it’s too early to be comparing tongues, Tav.”

If Wyll was truly like this all the time, so witty and charming, this was perhaps the best hope Tav had in regards to marriage for the longer they spoke with him, the fewer cons they found to his proposal. They didn’t need love at first sight, but to have his friendship? His good opinion? That could sustain Tav even better than what the bard songs promised.

“Wyll? How- please, pardon my curtness, but how do you feel about courting me?” Tav asked as they hand fiddled with an inlaid gem at their cuff, unable to phrase it more delicately. “Is this something you also want? Or is this just a formality, a favor for your father or Counselor Florrick?”

Wyll wasn’t expecting that, his smile twisted in confusion. “Do you not believe in my sincerity?”

“No, I do. But I also understand being willing to compromise for duty, to make the best of a situation. Courtship is… it’s more than flirty banter, it’s a serious matter to me and I want us to be on the same page.”

He quietly nodded, turning their words over in his head for a moment.

“I’ll speak clearly then. I never envisioned myself taking part in an arranged marriage, I have always envisioned taking a spouse out of love and still wish to do so. But from the first moment I heard your music, my heart was yours. And, well, I couldn’t bear to see you engaged to someone else before I could even confess my admiration.

“In a way, I’m even thankful this arrangement allowed me to come to you with all my intentions laid bare: I wish to get to know you, to better understand my feelings for you. So, I hope you don’t mind the idea of a long engagement… should we proceed together.”

There is a moment of silence as it sunk in that they were truly the precipice of forever. And his honesty deserved honesty in return.

“I would love that, a long engagement would be perfect. I just had to ask because I only want this if you do too. I couldn’t bear to be to you what others have been to me, you wouldn’t deserve that.” And in Tav’s experience, a forced connection could only ever become a target of misery and contempt.

He seemed to understand as his brow unfurrowed. “Tav…”

“I won’t lie to you and say I really believe in love at first sight, Wyll. That is a privilege I could never afford, that’s my sacrifice for my family. But, I can confidently tell you that I feel there is something worth tending to here. But beyond the good we could do together, I only want it if you want it too. Not your father, not my parents. You.”

“I do, I want this,” he assured and reached for them. “Not just for duty, but for myself.”

“And you understand the seriousness of this? People will be watching us, so it will be my duty to protect your honor as you protect mine.”

“Even if we weren’t courting, I could never allow someone to besmirch you,” he told them - a sentiment Tav had just been thinking to themself about Wyll. “I truly want to take my time winning your hand until the day our hearts know there will never be another for us.”

Appeased with his answers, Tav permitted him to take their hand. His palm was rough and calloused and that of someone unafraid of hard work - dedication. They felt proud that they were only nominally flustered when he kissed their bare knuckles.

“Well. I believe we have good news to tell our parents,” Tav said, giving his hand an affectionate squeeze before they let go, fingertips slowly sliding away from his and yet neither really moved.

Tav found themself lost in his eyes, thinking about the fact Wyll’s friendship was the greatest gift they had ever received, even better than the lovely robe. Sure, they only had it for mere minutes, and yet it had steadied Tav in ways no gold or art or jewelry could.

“Shall we head in then, Tav?” Wyll extended his arm out for them to take, ready to escort them in. And who were they to deny him? They linked their arm over his and took a deep breath, letting the reality of the moment sink in.

Come morrow, news of their courtship would make the rounds through society. The race for Tav’s hand would come to a wonderful halt, and they would have more time to focus intently upon that which they wanted. Their music, their daily trek for prayer, and - as it turned out - Wyll Ravengard.

Whatever their parents had planned would come later, a discussion for future Tav to deal with. Tonight they simply wanted to enjoy being treated like an equal and basking in Wyll’s beauty, his joy and laughter.

[madwomansapologist]

holiday season | tamerlane usher

Navigation | More Tamerlane Usher | AO3

synopsis: You're not the type to step on bussiness, but you won't be in a place where everyone stinks like hatred. You thought Tamerlane would understand it. Maybe she is used to the stench. Maybe she is part of it.

warnings: marriage problems. family problems. angst. hurt/comfort. kiss and make up.

A week felt like centuries. The more you wanted for the holidays to end so you could go back to your home, slower the time passed. All alone, you found yourself recalling about Tolstoy. That bastard really never missed. Each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.

Your family isn't one of those from margarine adds. You have your fights, moments you would rather eat your boot then talk to one of them, but the love is there. People commit mistakes, do awful things knowing they're awful, but the love was there still.

You don't see any love between the Ushers.

There is devotion, of course. Roderick and his money, Madeline and her influence. Their accomplishments serve as inspiration, and their respect means everything. There is devotion, envy, but you don't see love.

Siblings are meant to fight over the smalest things, but you worry they might actually hate one another. You wouldn't say that aloud, but you don't think that love isn't just not being showed: you think it's not there at all.

In between the walls of the mansion, the most used word is bastard. You thought it was disgusting, judged them, until you couldn't blind yourself from truth anymore.

Tamerlane uses it too.

You don't like what being with her family does to Tamerlane. She gets mean. Cruel. She acts as if she was better than others, on a higher place than those common people.

That's one of the reasons why you didn't want to spend Christmas at the mansion. And also one of the reasons why she'd been yelling at you for the last five minutes.

"Those people are fucking idiots, useless fucking idiots. Don't defend them. They don't fucking deserve it."

If the mansion wasn't so wide you would be afraid of others hearing everything. Still, shame covered your face. Tamerlane made it look like you were running away from her, betraying her in some way.

"Does that mean you need to act like that? C'mon, Tammy. 'Bastards'? Do you truly think that's how siblings are supposed to treat one another? Do you truly think I'm wrong for not wanting to spend my time in this awful place?"

"Frederick is my only brother, not the rest," Tamerlane pointed at you. Frustrated, you sat down in the bed. "Don't you ever say that again."

You raised your hands, surrendering. "It doesn't change the fact that I don't want to be here anymore. Can't you see how this place changes you? How it changes everyone?"

"Are you really going to let me here? Look, we have plans here. Froderick won't..."

"I'm asking you to go home with me," you held her hands. Looking deep into her eyes, you tried to soothe her. "Tammy, you don't want to be here. You're an adult. Fuck what Roderick or Madeline want from you. Let's go somewhere better."

For a second you thought she would agree. But Tamerlane let your hands go, and you had to accept the truth.

"I can't."

You sighed. "I'm leaving. The only real question is if I'll go alone or with my wife."

Tamerlane laughed. The same way she does when Victorine or Camille open their mouths. It was mean, cruel. Not at all like the Tamerlane you fell in love with. Sometimes you wonder if you created her on your mind. "So step right out."

The Ushers are prideful to a fault, but so are you. You didn't even took your clothes from the wardrobe. Your phone was on your pockets, car key on the bedside table. At least it wouldn't take you long.

Without saying another word, you left Tamerlane behind.

⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ⋆✦⋆ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

Tamerlane expected you to cease the fire. She thought you would call her, maybe come back in the middle of the night before anyone noticed you left, pretend that nothing happened. She was sure you would come back to her.

But you didn't.

She gave you time, space, but you didn't reach back for her. Tamerlane swore to herself to not go after you, but in the middle of the night your name glow in the screen of her phone. You ignore the call.

What were you doing? Where were you? Hearing Camille and Victorine fighting over something stupid, she wondered if you were spending christmas alone.

Tamerlane didn't told anyone she was going home. Part of her didn't even knew where she was driving towards. She just did, guilt filling her mind. Tamerlane couldn't sleep without you.

She found you watching Malcolm, a bowl with junk food in your hands. You saw her, but said nothing. Tamerlane sat beside you, the silence acting as daggers against her skin.

"You shouldn't eat this," she murmured. "We have real, healthy food here. You Goldbug Box must be..."

"Do I look like I care, Tamerlane?"

She breathed deep. "I'm sorry."

That earned a glance from you. "For what? Yelling at me at your father's house? Leaving me alone during Christmas? Being just overall cruel?"

"I don't... Everything. I'm sorry about everything. I'm just... I was too scared to leave, and too scared to be without you. I shouldn't have acted like that."

You gave another bite on your burger. "That's better."

"Do you forgive me?"

You had to fight back a smile. She went after you, and admitted to be in the wrong for once. You want Tammy to do better, but this is a starting point. "Sure," you told her. "Want me to restart the episode?"

Tamerlane took of her shoes and sat back down. She stole one of your fries and put her head on your shoulder. "No need," she looked at you. You were smiling. Good. "I'll probably sleep."

"Good night," you kissed her lips. "And good dreams."

if you enjoyed, please reblog! i promise it makes a difference ♡

GENERAL TAGLIST: @lovelyy-moonlight

@ madwomansapologist.tumblr.

[thetorturedpoetsintern]

champagne problems

Note: Find the previous drabble in this series here. Enjoy!🤍

Warnings: angst, arranged marriages and breakups

Words: aprox 1k

I never meant for it to happen like that. He was a sweet boy that made his presence known after Narcissa graduated Hogwarts and he was the shoulder I could cry on. Who could’ve known things will go the way that they did? With him rushing in the snow storm in the dark and with me rushing toward the only person I swore not to go to.

He invited me to spend the winter holidays at his home. It was our last school year and he said he wanted to make the best he could of our time left so of course I agreed. Merlin knew I needed an escape from the past few months. Our parents were content with our plan and so I went there.

We were dating by then for a while. Kissing and touching and late night talking and anything we could squeeze between classes and studying for N.E.W.Ts. But anytime his lips touched mine I kept thinking what Narcissa’s would feel and taste like. And anytime he reached for my hand I remembered her touch and how she helped me learn to dance for my first Yule Ball so I would not stumble over my date. And anytime he talked to me about something different than our studies it was still her I kept thinking about. What was she doing? Was she happy? Was she thinking of me like I was thinking of her?

He gave me the comfort she couldn’t have given me then. He was calming my nerves where all she could do was cause a fog that clouded my judgment. It was easy with him. Until he got on one knee when the clock struck 12 on New Year’s Eve and I panicked.

If I would have seen the events unfold inside a pensieve, the stillness of the witnesses would have been justified by a tempered memory. It was real though and they kept waiting for an answer. 

At that moment I thought that that’s why my parents agreed so easily, it was all planned. He had the decency to wait until the perfect moment to come in my life and when she left and I was in dire need of support he took advantage. I understand now that it wasn’t his fault, he was a puppet for his parents too. 

I didn’t know what was more disgusting to me then, the fact that it was an arranged marriage presented as a one of choice or the fact that most likely this was the scene Narcissa faced after graduation? 

A singular word was voiced mechanically. “No.” Horrified looks from our parents and their guests directed over me.

“You don’t have to answer me now, you could think…”

“No. I’m sorry but I can’t marry you. I can’t marry.” 

He got up then and summoned the house elf to bring his cloak. His mother went to beg him to stay, his father shouted vile words at me while mine made haste to get us out of there before the situation got more worse.

My lack of reaction at all that ruckus was cataloged as a ‘too much champagne’ case when in fact that was the moment everything was clear for me. I couldn’t marry a man because I already loved a woman and if that woman returned her affections or not, it didn’t matter because I got my answer. 

Fingers were pointed in my direction, whispers at every corner. Gossip in the hallways we used to walk through, nonsense about how either I’m too pretentious and unreasonable or about how he is not even half the man he thinks he is and how he can’t even woo a girl into accepting a marriage proposal.

He got through all these as did I. He married eventually, unlike me, and actually invited me to the wedding, joking together at our stupid young selves. He had children. All in all he went and lived a seemingly happy life.

That night, when he rushed into the snow storm to calm his raging angry tears, I wrote a note to her. 

I won’t ever be able to do it if it isn’t with you, it read. I never sent it. She doesn’t even know of its existence but I’ve kept it between some old school parchment all these years. That night I opened my mind and became a prey of her existence. 

We met sometime in the spring at Madam Malkin’s. I was there for some new robes and she for her bridal trousseau. Our mothers quickly became entranced in their talking and she whispered to me “What a shame you’re fucked in the head.”

“Happy to see you too,” I responded, rolling my eyes. Did she really forget about me already?

“That’s what they say about you.” Her eyes scanned mine, the same wildness in them that attracted me to her in the first place.

“They’re really not joking, aren’t they?”

“It looks like they’re not.” She controlled her laughter like everything she did in public and I couldn’t help myself but to do the same. I knew that if we were alone we would have been left with our abdomen burning from exertion and our cheeks stained with happy tears and it was all the confirmation I needed from her, even if she didn’t actually confirm anything.

“I want you to come to the wedding. It’ll be this summer.” With two sentences she managed to cloud the fragile appearance of happiness that was left for me.

“You’re mad.”

“I’m not. I envy you actually. And if I have to say ‘yes’ I want to do it with you in the same room, somewhere I could glance at you.”

“But Lucius…”

“Lucius already invited his puppy. He’s as miserable as me with this arrangement but we have to get through with it.”

“Does Lucius know about your puppy?”

“Oh, now, be serious...”

“Stop trying. I’ll be there for you. But I’ll be leaving after the ceremony.” 

I never saw her until she walked down the aisle and I realized the terrible mistake I made by letting her again in my mind and heart.

Next chapter here

[enhaheeseung]

Wow. I sent that long ask about the love story my parents had before I read part 5. I definitely take it all back… My dad, for all his flaws (even then) would never cheat on my mom. He loved/loves her. He was just lost at the time… What Hee did was something else entirely. And he was feeling good about it? Yeah I take it all back for sure. Hee has no integrity at all and apparently a cheap one night stand is literally all it takes to make him happy his wife left?

Yeah no. That’s not love. That’s pathetic. Wishing YN a happy life with someone who actually values her as a person and is connected to her in a deeper way—deeper than one nameless bar hook-up can erase. The only thing deep about this is how deeply I regret the comparison to my parents.

Hee is the culmination of every terrible fear that women have about their partners. The bar was literally in hell and he swam under it with a smile on his face.

The story is excellent and very well written. Truly. But I don’t even know if I can keep reading. (Which is honestly a compliment because you are such a good writer and character crafter that my emotions are truly engaged) I just don’t know if I can stomach him anymore. He’s… just gross now. And I guess that was the point all along. (Maybe?) His wife fell in love with a lie and his true colors are on display now? I’m sure you (as the author) could somehow redeem him still (if you wanted to) but I have no clue how you would begin to do it. Talking to her about his dreams of their life together and a family and then he bangs a barfly before the divorce is even official? And is happy about it?! …

If I was his wife this would turn my stomach and shatter what was left of my heart (and my self-esteem honestly). I don’t even think I could even bear to look at him…and then knowing that he was happy about it? Happy about me leaving? I mean at that point I guess he wouldn’t want me back but even if he did…

Hell would freeze first.

Agreed everything about this I wholeheartedly agree with like I know he was drunk and he thinks its over between him and mc and I could even kinda get past the cheating but the fact he’s satisfied with it that makes me complete disgusted

And the nerve of him to go to her doorstep crying to just days later cheating and being glad his marriage is over is just totally fucked

But what can I say he’s just a dirty little man who only cares about himself and his feelings and obviously he’s willing to do and say whatever just to make himself feel good

He doesn’t deserve a second chance or any chance he really doesn’t even deserve the one night stand tbh

But even though the story is triggering I really hope you’ll stay for the end again thank you so much for sharing your story and you didn’t over share it’s completely okay!♥️

Hope to see you in the next chap!!!

[melodyalanaroster]

The Secret Revealed!

Trigger Warning: This chapter covers Episode 23 of My Candy Love. If you are triggered by discussions of abuse, or abuse scenes, please skip this chapter.

It had been a couple of days since Alana set Operation Purity Chalice into motion. People at school were very thrown off by Amber actually showing civility and a small glimmer of attempted friendship to her. “Why are you and Amber friends now? You do know she’s using you, right?” Nathaniel asked as he and Alana walked towards the courtyard. “I know she is... But she’s been tormenting me since I got here and its nice to not have her bullying be so bad. I give her fancy stuff, and get her closer to V, and she makes an effort to not be so horrible to me. It is a bit of a win-win situation for now.” She explained. Nathaniel looked down for a second, almost a little guilty. “Hey! Its okay! Let me reassure you, even if your father did get close to V, Rini and Viktor, there is absolutely no way he’d get what he wants. The closest someone has ever come to that is what V’s husband did and even then, he had to get uncle Cyrus’ approval!” Alana reassured. “Uncle Cyrus?” Nathaniel raised an eyebrow. “Verity’s father. Its this whole thing about him not wanting V to marry a traditional aristocrat, so when Achille came along and proved that his family hasn’t been aristocratic in years, Cyrus approved of the marriage... Much to Mom’s, Agatha’s and Aunt C’s disgust.” Alana clarified. “Alana...” Nathaniel began. “Look, I’m going to be okay. V already knows what your father wants and she’s promised me that he isn’t getting it.” She smiled as she put her hand on his cheek.

Later that day, Castiel stormed up to her with Demon on his leash as she was buying a new set of expensive pajamas. “What the hell, Alana?!” He called. “What?” She asked, curiously. “Why is Amber saying that you and I aren’t friends anymore, that she “won”?” He demanded to know. “Amber came up to me and told me that if I swear that I won’t get romantically involved with you, then she won’t terrorize me at school. I never said anything about us not being friends anymore.” She explained. “Why would she demand that?” He inquired. “I think it was an excuse. Its obvious that her father wants to get closer to my family’s aristocratic friends so that they may elevate their station. Not to mention, I do think she actually does have a thing for you and it was probably the first excuse she could come up with that didn’t involve revealing her father’s true intentions.” She clarified. “But I don’t like her like that. I made that clear years ago.” He spat. “I kind of figured you had... But, she seems to think you’re in love with me and therefore this would be an easy thing for us to agree to. I am still your friend Castiel... But I need her abuse to stop, so I agreed to this. Please understand it.” She urged. “But, Alana...” He began. “Look, the only way it will cause a problem with us is if you want to be romantically involved with me. Which, is preposterous, right? Just because my sister makes jokes about it all the time doesn’t mean you actually wanna be with me? Right?” She chuckled. A flicker of disappointment and a slight broken heart washed over Castiel’s face. He quickly buried his actual feelings, chested up and laughed. “Right! Who would ever wanna be with a meddling ironing board like you?!” He nervously laughed as he took Demon and quickly left. “Castiel you ass!” Alana called back, slightly sarcastically. She looked at the pajamas in the bag. “They’re fox pajamas... And they’re more expensive than what I usually spend on this type of thing... But I really don’t need her to see my anime and Harry Potter stuff...” She sighed to herself as she walked out of the store.

As Lynne’s car pulled up in front of the Jacott residence, Alana felt her nerves catch fire. “Okay, no turning back now.” She thought. When Lynne parked, she turned to look at her daughter. “Melody, why are you doing this? I don’t know why that girl is being nice to you. But I do know it seems like she wants to get closer to Verity. What is going on?” She asked. Alana looked down for a minute, then back up at her mother with conviction. “Mom, please... Stay out of this. If I need your help, I will come to you myself.” She sighed. “Are you sure?” Lynne looked brokenhearted. “Yes. I’ve got this.” Alana slightly smiled. “Alright... I trust you. But, please, come to me if you need help.” Lynne sighed. “I will.” Alana grinned as she opened the door and stood in front of the gate. “This house isn’t bad.” The voice in her head piped up. “Its boring. Everything looks like a modern version of an aristocratic estate. Even the gate has nothing to make it stand out.” She thought back. The gate opened minutes after she rang the bell and revealed Nathaniel looking at her with a confused look on his face. “Alana? What are you doing here?” He asked, almost a little terrified. “Your sister wanted to do a sleep over with me, so I came.” Alana shrugged. “Alana, I told you, she’s using you...” Nathaniel worriedly blurted out in as much of a hushed tone as he could manage. “Alana! Welcome to our home!” Amber called as she excitedly walked up to them. “Amber! It looks lovely! Here! I brought you something! As a thank you for letting me into your home!” Alana beamed as she pulled a box out of her overnight bag. “Is that the case to the new designer make up that your godmother has access to?” Amber asked, bewildered. “Yep! It won’t even be out until next year! But V’s friend on the inside wanted to give out a few samples and I knew it would be a perfect thing for you!” Alana did her best to sound like a “yuppie” as she gave Amber the case. “Thank you so much! I love it!” Amber beamed. Alana thought she heard a hint of sincerity in Amber’s voice but brushed the idea off. “She’s only being nice to me because she wants what she thinks I have to offer.” She thought.

“Come on Alana! I’ll show you around the house!” Amber beamed as she lead her into the main entryway. The entryway seemed like an attempt at being grand, without the true aristocratic touch. “No paintings or pictures on the walls. A random blue chair by the staircase. A blue, white and red rug. Its boring. There’s no personality. No character.” Alana thought before she instantly reminded herself that she could not insult her hosts’ home. “Its so spacious and lovely!” She cheered. Her mind turned to the main entryway of the Roster Family Home in Weathering. Alana had always been told that the main Roster Family Home was bought by her great great grandmother, however, that was clearly a lie. It was obvious that the home and the land it sat on had been in the family for much longer. The main entryway in her family home had pictures and paintings hung in it. There weren’t many spots on the walls that were left empty. Throughout the years, with each generation, the configuration of the walls would change to showcase the latest members. But, the character and spirit never changed. The Jacott Home came off as too clean to Alana. Too sterile. She wondered if Francis and Adelaide even wanted to show off their family. “You’d think there’d at least be a portrait on the wall in here.” She thought. “You haven’t even seen the best part!” Amber mused as she lead her to the dining room. Yet again, another sterile room that flowed into a breakfast nook and the kitchen. There were flowers on the table, a modern chandelier hung over the dining table and a bland painting was neatly placed on the wall, but that was it. “There aren’t even curtains for the windows. Who designed this interior?” Alana thought, getting a bit more disturbed by the style of the home. “Love the modern kitchen!” She chirped. “Its the best of the best!” Amber delightedly cooed. “And the painting? Its fascinating.” Alana observed. “It was done by a super well known modern artist! Although, I can’t quite remember who... But my dad is quite proud of it!” Amber crowed. “Seems like he needs to get his money back.” The voice in Alana’s head piped up. “Shut up... It looks like something uncle Cyrus’ sister would buy.” Alana thought back.

Amber lead her upstairs to the home’s second floor. There was one more flight of stairs going to a third floor, and several doors in the hallway of the second floor. “Mom and Dad’s room take up the entire third floor. Their offices are in the doors behind you. Just be sure to not go around snooping in their bedroom and offices! I know how you like sticking your nose where it doesn’t belong! The door next to the stairs is Nathaniel’s bedroom. The one at the end of the hall is the bathroom. Yes, Nath and I share. But he knows better than to make a mess! And the door to our right is the best room in the house... Mine!” Amber proudly proclaimed. Even the hallway looked bland. There were two pictures on the walls. One right next to the doors to the two bedrooms. The picture next to Nathaniel’s room was a painting of a field. The one next to Amber’s room was an older painting. Clearly an old, dead, Jacott relative. The only other thing decorating the hallway was a wooden table with a plain lamp on it. Amber opened the door to the bathroom to show Alana how it looked. It was a simple and modern room that had a large tub, a basic tile shower, a couple of cabinets in between the toilet and shower and a fake plant on the counter in between the sink and tub that covered up a small frosted glass window. “And now! The best room in the house!” Amber announced as she opened the door to her room. Suddenly, Alana was reminded of Dolores Umbridge. The room was saturated in the color pink. The only things that broke the color up were the items that were light purple, baby blue, yellow, white, and the occasional red item. The bed looked as if it had come straight out of a Barbie princess playset. “This is not the least bit surprising.” She thought. “Doesn’t this room look like an old playset you had when you were a kid?” The voice in her head piped up. “YUP! Almost as if it’s attempting to be a copy of either my Princess and the Pauper playset, my super old Princess Kelly castle, or my Twelve Dancing Princesses set.” She thought. Alana quickly came up with a compliment that she hoped would keep Amber rather smug for the rest of the night. “This room is, certainly, colorful! It reminds me of my best friend’s room! Oh, right... My best friend is Aunt V’s daughter, Severina Mekina. Rini’s room looks close to this! Just with a bit more purple!” She praised. Amber smiled, almost as if the compliment had meant the world to her. “If the heir to the esteemed Mekina family has a room that looks like mine, then I’m clearly doing the right thing!” Amber approved.

After several more minutes of Amber going around her room, bragging about each and every little thing that she could think might make Alana jealous, everyone was summoned to the dining room for the evening’s meal. “That was torture.” the voice in her head piped up. “No... That was the beginning. This dinner is going to be torture.” She thought back as she entered the dining room. Nathaniel was already in the room, setting the table, as if he had been programmed to do so like a robot. Alana could tell that he was doing everything in his power to keep his face as expressionless, polite, and calm as he possible. However, his nerves were clearly getting the better of him. “Miss Roster. Welcome to our home.” Adelaide politely smiled, obviously having forgotten Alana’s name. “Its good to see you Melody. Welcome to our estate. It is nice to see someone other than Li and Charlotte walk these halls.” Francis greeted. “Thank you both for welcoming me into your lovely home! I’m so happy that Amber and I have been able to put our animosity aside and become friends. And, Mr. Jacott, with all due respect, please call me Alana.” Alana beamed as everyone but Nathaniel sat down. “If you don’t mind me asking, you and your sister have such pretty names... Why don’t the two of you go by them?” Adelaide asked. “Despite the fact that we both like the names we were given. Melody and  Samantha are lovely names, after all. By choosing to go by “Alana” and “Sam” we are taking our lives into our own hands and forging our own destinies. Most of the Roster Clan either goes by nicknames, middle names, or chooses to go by their given first names.” Alana clarified. Nathaniel walked into the kitchen, quickly came back holding a silver platter with a dome, set it on the table and lifted the dome revealing a freshly cooked lobster. “Dinner is served!” He announced as he bowed and looked at his father. “Be seated.” Francis ordered, a stern look on his face. “Lobster! This must be a special occasion!” Alana cooed. “Does your family not eat seafood that often?” Francis asked, instantly turning more sweet. “We eat seafood all the time. However, we prefer to source the meats that we bring to our tables from the farms and fishermen that surround the estates. If you ask any major member of the family, it won’t matter if its the Irish House, the Scottish House, or the Astarian House, we can tell you which farms and fishermen the meat, dairy, and produce come from. Several aristocratic families have taken our example and preferred a more “farm to table” approach. Its simply the fact that, shellfish such as lobster and crab are left for more special occasions.” Alana explained. “And I’m sure the aristocracy has different views.” Adelaide snidely commented as she sipped her drink. “Nathaniel! Get your elbows off the table!” Francis hissed. Nathaniel obeyed without question. “Sorry father.” He muttered. Suddenly, Alana felt her foot being crushed, obviously by Amber’s foot. “Pathetic pest!” She thought. “The aristocracy still believes in the outdated “superior bloodlines system”. They are going to believe whatever they like. It has never been the worry of the Roster Family. Astaria’s royal family uses our culinary system. In fact, its made their chefs strive harder for continued Michelin Star status.” She explicated as she presented her hosts with the stone faced resolve she had spent years cultivating.

As the evening progressed, Francis continued his verbal assault on Nathaniel. Raining down a barrage of hate and criticism under the guise of demanding perfection. Even going so far as to angrily bang the table when Nathaniel forgot the small spoons during the place setting after he brought desert out. “Why does Nathaniel have to be perfect while Amber is allowed to text, be rude, and literally bully you? She doesn’t even have to be polite at the dinner table!” The voice in her head piped up. “I have a hunch... And I hate the fact that I might be right.” She thought back. Alana wanted to comment on how Nathaniel is not Francis’ butler and that he should not be the one doing all of the brunt work, but she knew it would only worsen the situation. She brushed Francis’ apology for Nathaniel’s forgetfulness off. “This is getting to be textbook... Very similar to what Carol and Achille do...” She thought. When she offered to help Nathaniel with the clean up, Francis cut her off and told her that he needed to speak with his son and that her help was not necessary. When Francis finished his sentence, he looked at Nathaniel, sternly. Nathaniel’s face instantly filled with a mixture of horror and dread. She didn’t want to leave Nathaniel alone with his father, even for a second. Her mind turned to what Carol did to her behind her mother’s back. Each and every time Carol would insult, demean, and lightly strike her whenever no one was looking. Every time Carol would block her and Sam from telling their mother about what she was doing to them. Every time Carol threatened to do the unthinkable to them if they told anyone in the press. Alana didn’t want to think about the idea that Nathaniel was suffering anything similar to the same kind of hell that she suffered, let alone a hell that he couldn’t escape from without uprooting his whole life. But, all the signs were there, and she needed confirmation.

When she returned to Amber’s room, Amber tossed a pink pillow and an almost doll sized pink duvet at her. “What are these?” Alana asked, confused. “Your sleeping arrangements. Its not much, but you should be thankful that you’re even allowed to sleep in my room!” Amber sneered. “I’d rather sleep in your brother’s room.” A quiet thought popped up in Alana’s mind. “I brought my own pillow and blanket! But thank you for giving me what I need to make the floor more comfortable!” Alana beamed as she pulled a blue galaxy pillow with the Cancer constellation on the front and a blue galaxy blanket from her bag and began to make up her “bed”. “Why is all of your stuff blue and space themed?” Amber asked, annoyed. “Why is all of your stuff pink?” Alana shot back. “Pink is cute and girly. Now, answer my question.” Amber replied. “Blue is ethereal and calming. Its the color of the sky and stars. But, since we’re asking questions... How long have you and your family lived here?” Alana inquired. “Since we were kids. I suppose you wouldn’t know what its like to still live in your childhood home.” Amber popped off. “Actually, my family still owns the house I was born in. The house in Weathering has been in our family for generations. Its actually tradition for members of the family to leave it, so long as at least one member still lives in it.” Alana smirked as she grabbed her toiletries bag and her pajamas and left the room. As she entered the hallway, the only lights and sounds in the house were coming from the first floor. “I hope you don’t intend on going where you don’t belong, Miss Roster.” A voice called out to her and made her jump. Alana turned around and noticed Adelaide leaving her office. “What’s going on down there?” She asked. “Matters that are none of your business. Now, do whatever you need to do in the restroom then hurry back to Amber’s room.” Adelaide ordered as she went upstairs. “Yes ma’am.” Alana nodded as she went into the restroom. After she was done changing her clothes, applying her nightly face mask and cleaning her teeth, she passed through the hallway and could hear Francis and Nathaniel talking, but she still couldn’t quite make out what they were saying. “You have got to hear what’s going on!” The voice in her head commanded. “They’re being too quiet, and I’ve been out here too long. Give me a minute!” She thought back as she went back into Amber’s room.

“What took you so long? And why do you have a face mask on?” Amber asked, very annoyed when Alana set her bag down. “Do you not exfoliate your face each morning and night? Aunt Verity has been sending Sam and me top dollar skin care since we first hit puberty. Its why our skin looks so fantastic. I have to go back and scrub it off in about five minutes. But, in the morning, my face will be glowing.” Alana smiled. “Well, those fox pajamas look cheap and ugly.” Amber shook her head, clearly caught off guard. “Whatever you say.” Alana smirked. Exactly five minutes later, Alana left the room to rinse her face when she was instantly frozen in place. Francis’ and Nathaniel’s voices had gotten significantly louder. “HOW DARE YOU TALK BACK TO ME!” Francis yelled. “Dad, that’s not what I meant to say... It’s not the end of the world...” Nathaniel pleaded. “NEVER WILL MEDIOCRATY BE TOLERATED UNDER THIS ROOF! NEVER!” Francis’ voice boomed. Fear continued to keep Alana frozen in place. Suddenly, the sound of a fist colliding with flesh resounded through the house. “Holy shit!” Alana thought as she quickly covered her mouth. “We were right! His father does beat him!” The voice in her head almost yelped. “I knew it! All the signs were there!” She thought back. “Go wash the mask off your face and then see if you can get answers from Amber! You can’t stay in the hall!” The voice in her head ordered. Without another thought, she ran to the restroom, washed her face and ran back to Amber’s room. “What’s wrong with you? You’re all white. It looks like you just witnessed a murder.” Amber almost chuckled. “I just heard your dad and Nathaniel fighting. It seemed rather... Volatile and violent. Does that happen often?” Alana asked, still in shock. “Well, my parents are strict with him, its no big deal. He just gets into trouble when he is late, or that kind of thing. It makes me laugh, because I have so much more freedom than him.” Amber explained. “I see... Well, the restroom is free for you to change.” Alana looked down. “Good. I wouldn’t want someone like you seeing me without my clothes on. My body is too good for your eyes.” Amber sneered as she walked out of the room with her pajamas in hand. A couple of minutes later, she came back into the room wearing a yellow spaghetti strap top and shorts set. “You know? It is reassuring that, while both of our tastes can be quite expensive, they are vastly different.” Alana shrugged. “I would never wear something with an animal on it. Foxes are horrible creatures anyway.” Amber huffed. “I’ve always figured you to be the type of person to favor poodles anyway.” Alana rolled her eyes. “You’re wearing clothes for little girls.” Amber snickered. “I never said that I was here for a fashion show.” Alana remarked. “Oh yeah, so why exactly did you come here? I’d like to know.” Amber asked. “The marks on your brother’s back. Do you remember them?” Alana questioned. “What are you going to think up next?!” Amber spat. “Cut the crap, Amber. You know full well what I’m talking about.” Alana replied, flatly. “Are you going to talk to me about the whole cell phone thing again? I told you, it was just a way to get you to cough up the money. You thought I had information you needed, and I took advantage of it. Its not my fault if you believe in everything I say!” Amber blurted out. “So, you actually don’t know anything?” Alana interrogated. “I told you! I don’t know how he got those. Are you deaf or what?!” Amber spat. “Its not that I don’t appreciate talking about the times I’ve used you, but I’m tired. So, on that note, I wish you a good night in your... Blankets.” She huffed as she crawled into bed and turned the lights out.

It didn’t take long for Amber to start loudly snoring and the Jacott Household to be at the mercy of the night. “Finally. Now I can get some actual answers.” Alana thought as she quietly got up from her “bed” and entered the hallway. “Please don’t be asleep... And please forgive me for everything I do from here on out, Nathaniel...” She thought. “I wonder if he sleeps nude...” The voice in her head piped up. “Shut up, he probably sleeps in something more proper...” She thought back, her nerves catching a different kind of fire. “Come on girl! Get in there and find out!” The voice in her head commanded. She stood in front of Nathaniel’s bedroom door and knocked three times very lightly. “Who is it?” Nathaniel asked from the other side. “Its Alana... Can I come in?” she asked very sweetly. “Okay, but be very quiet.” Nathaniel muttered after what felt like the longest minute of Alana’s life. She very carefully opened the door, stepped into the room and closed the door behind her. Standing before her was a sight she had only seen in her late night fantasies... Nathaniel wearing nothing but a pair of black boxers that didn’t leave much to the imagination. “Is everything alright?” He asked, concerned. “Nath... We need to talk and you’re not leaving or brushing me off this time.” She blushed. “And you couldn’t find a better moment than in the middle of the night?” He chuckled, his cheeks becoming red. “CONCENTRATE ALANA!” She thought. “If this wasn’t so serious, he’d be inside you tonight.” The voice in her head commented. She could feel her mouth watering at the sight of him. “I had to... This is too important...” She nodded. “Yes?” He asked, innocently. “GET IN HIS BED! Make him feel the love you want him to feel. SHOW HIM how beautiful you think he is, that he his deeply loved, and that he is not alone!” The voice in her head cheered. “I can’t!” She thought back as she regained her composure. “I-I had to get proof before talking to you...” She began. “Proof?” He asked. Alana closed her eyes, sighed, opened her eyes and looked at him with conviction. “Proof that your dad hits you.” She replied. “I already told you to not get involved! It’s not your business, can’t you understand that for once?!” He yelled. His anger pierced her heart like an arrow. “Stay strong, Alana... You have to do this.” She thought. “Please, don’t yell. If your parents hear us...” She began. “Get out. Now.” He ordered. “No. I won’t leave you! Nathaniel, this is too serious! You know for a fact that its impossible for me to pretend that nothing is wrong.” She pleaded. “It-It’s more complicated than it seems, you know...” He muttered. “Talk to me then. I have entrusted you with the truth of my horrors... That means I am more than willing to support you through yours.” She insisted as she took his hand but he was so bothered that he probably didn’t even feel it. “Please? It would help you to talk.” She urged. Nathaniel thought for a minute and sighed. “I don’t want to get my dad in trouble... Understand? He’s already going through a tough time. That’s why I don’t want to talk to anyone about... About what he does to me.” He opened up. “Nathaniel... Between the two of you, you’re the one going through a tougher time!” Alana blurted out. “Alana, you don’t know what you’re talking about... My dad has always had an exceptional life since he advanced through his different positions in his multinational company. He’s always made us happy, my mom, my sister and me... Before...” He continued. “Before what?” She asked, allowing the slight patronization fall flat. “Before someone stole his promotion and everything went up in flames. A while ago, my dad was supposed to be the vice-president of the company.” He elaborated. “That’s not a small promotion...” She commented. “Exactly. Except for a young man, just out of university and loaded with degrees, got noticed. Even though my father had been in the company longer, his superior chose the young man over my father.” He explained. “I get that had to have been hard... But that is still no excuse for everything! Your dad at least kept a good position in the company, right?” Alana asked. “No, the problems just kept coming... The new vice-president felt threatened, and was sneaky enough to downgrade my dad until he had just a basic position. So, my dad is stuck. He wanted to reach excellence, and he will stay in the same office until the end of his career.” Nathaniel clarified. “And how do you factor into this equation? You aren’t the reason for his professional misfortune.” Alana inquired. “I... I don’t know, do you want over-the-counter psychology? I think my dad projects on me the image of the young man who stole his promotion. At the same time, he wants me to be like him, irreproachable. Maybe even better, so I never get overridden like he was.” Nathaniel facepalmed, annoyed. “If I wanted over-the-counter psychology, I’d go to my aunt Seraphina. I can tell you exactly WHY Carol does it to Sam and me. Its because her attempt to get in with the aristocracy through her husband, Valentine, and daughter, Regina, failed... So she decided to sink her fangs into my mother since my family is an old one and has always been “aristocracy adjacent”. In the process of that, she decided that it would be best to use my sister and me as props to promote mom. So, if we’re not perfect, we get hurt. And, for the record, no one is irreproachable!” Alana exclaimed. “I guess he is just trying to protect me from what he faced...” Nathaniel sighed. “That is no excuse for what he does to you! There is no justification for striking your child! You do realize that, right? How can you just accept that without flinching?” Alana asked, pouring emotion into each and every word. “If I give him up, it will just hurt my family more than they are already hurt. My dad would surely lose his job. We’re already indebted, we would lose our house! What would my mom and sister do in all that?” Nathaniel’s voice was almost pleading as he facepalmed. “Which brings me to my other questions... Why don’t they say or do anything? Do they not know?!” Alana inquired. “Amber doesn’t know. She just thinks she is the favorite that gets away with everything, while her brother gets “in trouble”. My mom... I think she just pretends to not know anything.” He sighed. “And, instead of actually defending you from the blatant abuse that your father is belting out, she ignores it? Leaving you without a single person of power to protect you in any way?” The words left her mouth before she could properly process the gravity of what she had just said. “You shouldn’t make a big deal about it... Every kid has had one or two corrections from their parents...” He nervously shook his head. “Correction doesn’t involve leaving bruises in your child’s back! And I could easily bet that your dad has beat you more than once or twice!” She blurted out. “It hasn’t happened that often...” Nathaniel looked down. “The fact that its happened even once is too far! Parents shouldn’t be harming their children in the first place! Even then, there is a massive difference between getting grounded, having things taken away from you, getting extra chores, or even a light slap on the wrist versus getting knuckles imbedded in your skin or heavily slapped! With all that, the physical contact should only be enough to make sure the child knows they’ve gone too far, not hurt them!” She sputtered. “I’m certain that’s not why he does it.” Nathaniel stated. “The road to hell is paved with good intentions. It doesn’t matter WHY he hit you! The fact that he did is abuse!” She blurted out. “Whatever it is, you don’t have to worry about it, okay? Let me handle it.” Nathaniel tried to be reassuring. “But Nathaniel... He... He hurt you tonight too... Didn’t he?” She asked, a hint of sadness in her voice. “It wasn’t that bad...” He replied, forcing a little more strength into his voice. “Nath...” She began. “I’m going to go to bed now, if you don’t mind. Its late and I want to be rested for tomorrow.” He smiled. Nathaniel crawled into bed right in front of her, rolled onto his side and turned his back to her. “Don’t you dare leave him like this!” The voice in her head almost yelled at her. Without another thought, Alana crawled into his bed, laid next to him, and held him in her arms. “Welp, he’s not moving... I can’t tell what he’s thinking...” She thought. “But he’s not pushing you away, so that’s a good thing...” The voice in her head assured her. Time seemed to stop as they laid in bed together. Her mind wanted to continue racing, but her heart’s desire to comfort him overrode her brain. After several minutes, Nathaniel sighed, rolled over, and smiled at her. “You should maybe go now. You... I don’t want my dad to find us like this.” He cooed. “Right! W-We w-wouldn’t w-want t-that... Are you going to be okay?” She asked, secretly praying to the gods that she wasn’t blushing. “Now, yes. Your presence did me a lot of good. But, its best if you go back to sleep in Amber’s room, now. Otherwise, we might fall asleep together...” He insisted. “Of course... I’ll leave you then... Goodnight Nathaniel. Sweet dreams.” Alana nervously smiled as she got out of bed. “Alana?” He asked as she reached for the door handle. “Yes?” She looked back at him, a hint of longing in her eyes. “Thank you... And have pleasant dreams.” He blushed.

Alana creeped back into Amber’s room, thanked any deity who would listen for the fact that Amber is a heavy sleeper, got under her blanket and pulled out her phone. Several messages had been sent to her by various people. “Are you surviving?” from Sam. “Are you right?” from Kentin. “Be safe. Keep us posted.” from Armin. When she got to the message from her mother, she quietly sighed in relief. “Hey sweetie! Nate and I had to run to England for a bit for a movie thing for him! We’ll be back in a couple of days! Luckily, Achille is in America for a meeting all week, so Verity will be able to take care of you and Sam until I get back! Love you!” As she sent her mom a message saying “Alright! Have fun! Love you too!” she couldn’t help but think about the fact that she would be able to talk to Verity about what she had witnessed without it getting to her mother. Verity was always the one she could trust with secrets that she didn’t want to worry her mom with, and this was no different. “Verity, PLEASE pick me up early tomorrow! I could really use some one on one time with my godmother!” She texted. “So, are you not gonna focus on the fact that you got into his bed?” The voice in her head asked. “That is something I can think about tomorrow... For now, I need to do everything in my power to get some much needed sleep.” She thought back as she put her phone away and closed her eyes.

★

When the first rays of dawn had begun to shine through Amber’s curtains, Alana opened her eyes. “Get up you idiot!” The voice in her head piped up. Amber was still sound asleep, snoring like an old train. She quickly grabbed her bag and went to the bathroom. Changing her clothes and brushing her teeth were done in a quiet rush. As she washed her face, her mind began to race and replay the events from the night before as if it was a clip show. “What do I do?!” She thought. “You tell Sam, Ken, Armin and Verity.” The voice in her head replied. “Why Verity?!” She frantically thought. “You already know why. You knew why last night. Especially considering Verity would be the best adult to help you with this.” The voice in her head stated. “But Nathaniel told me to not do anything...” She thought back. “If you don’t do SOMETHING, he’s only gonna continue to get hurt... Didn’t you already tell Sam, Ken, Armin and yourself that you had to do something? That’s literally why you’re here.” The voice in her head pointed out. “What if he hates me... He was trying so hard to justify his father’s actions last night...” She worried. “You knew coming into this that that would be a possibility. But, if it helps him in the long run, then its worth it.” The voice in her head assured. Suddenly, her phone vibrated with a message notification from Verity. “I’m sure you can tell me what’s going on when I get there. Send me the address, I’ll be on my way soon. Love you!” She let out a massive sigh of relief as she put her phone in her pocket. “Alright... Let’s do this.” She nodded as she rinsed her face and left the bathroom.

“Miss Roster, you’re awake rather early.” Francis pleasantly greeted as he came out of his office. The very sight of him filled her with disgust and hatred. “Early risers get more done. And a good morning to you Mister Jacott!” Alana did her best to sound as polite and happy to see him as possible. “Someone please get me a trash can so I can puke!” She thought. “I trust you slept well.” He grinned. “Yes, I did. Amber is quite the hostess!” She beamed. “Amber is nothing if not exceptional. Now, would you like some breakfast before your mother picks you up?” Francis asked. “I’d hate to turn down such a sweet offer, but it turns out that my plans have changed. Mom had to run to England for a bit, so Verity will be picking me up. Verity likes to get up and going early, so she’ll be here soon.” She explained. “What a shame. Well, then... I must apologize for Nathaniel’s actions last night. My wife and I have been trying to raise him to be better than that... To be exceptional.” Francis’ voice was low and almost sincere. “HE’S APOLOGIZING FOR NATHANIEL’S ACTIONS! NATHANIEL DID NOTHING WRONG! LET ME AT HIM! I’LL KICK HIS TEETH IN!” The voice in her head yelled. “No apology needed, sir. Everyone forgets the little details sometimes. No one is perfect... And, with all due respect, I wouldn’t write your son off like that. He’s the smartest, sweetest, most respectable and proper guy in our class. I can already tell that he is going to go far in life. You should be proud of him.” She smiled as she rushed back into Amber’s room and gathered her things.

An hour later, there was a knock on the front door. “Mrs. Mekina! What an absolute pleasure it is to finally meet you!” Francis beamed. “You must be Mister Jacott! Thank you so much for hosting my darling goddaughter! Is my sweet Melody ready to go?” Verity smiled. “Miss Roster! Your godmother is here!” Francis called. Nathaniel looked at Alana and mouthed the words “I’m going to be okay.” as she looked at him, worried. “I hope you’re right.” She whispered as she ran downstairs and hugged Verity. “Good morning my little starlight! It’s good to see you! Are you ready for a fun filled day?! I know Sam and her boyfriend want to include your friend Armin with our festivities, is that okay with you?” Verity cheered. “Yeah! I’m so happy we get to hang out V!” Alana mused. She turned to Francis, Nathaniel and Amber. “Thank you so much for having me! Amber, Nathaniel, I’ll see you two at school tomorrow!” She smiled. “See you!” Amber waved, clearly faking happiness. “Shall we?” Verity motioned to the car. “Yeah, let’s go.” Alana smiled.

By the time Verity’s car pulled up to the apartment, Armin, Sam and Ken had already gathered in the living room. “Alright girls, I’ve waited long enough. What is going on and why can’t your mother know about this?” Verity commanded as she shut the door behind her and Alana. Sam handed Alana a bottle of iced coffee. “Alright... This is going to be a long one.” Alana sighed as she twisted the top off, took a big swig, and set the bottle down. Over the course of the following hour, Alana explained the entire situation to Verity, and filled everyone in on the previous night’s events, including the bit where she got into Nathaniel’s bed. “Holy shit.” Armin gasped. “Oh my god... That poor boy...” Verity wept. “That bastard!” Kentin blurted out. “Mels, did you get any proof?” Sam asked. Alana looked down. “I was frozen in fear, I didn’t think to have my phone recording.” She clarified. “This is serious! Social Services needs to be called! That poor boy needs to be gotten out of that situation!” Verity exclaimed. “I wanna kick his dad’s teeth in!” Armin was almost shouting. “I know something needs to be done. Nathaniel begged me not to! Apparently his dad is in debt. What if they lose everything?!” Alana asked. “Of course they’re in debt! People who aspire to become part of the aristocracy are almost ALWAYS in some form of financial trouble! Hell, look at Carol! She wants to be part of the system and yet her family is poorer than church mice! Or Achille! The Pechman family was disgraced years ago before my father made me marry him!” Verity blurted out. “So, what are we going to do?” Armin asked. “Mels, you have to call Social Services. You’re the one who heard his dad beat him. Not only that, but you heard it twice, on two different days, and in two different locations.” Sam stated, very sternly. “But...” Alana sadly yelped. “Look, I asked you if you were ready to do this, even if it makes Nathaniel hate you, and you said you were. Now, you have to do the hard part.” Sam barked. “She’s right, even if he hates you for this, it’ll be better for him in the long run.” Kentin nodded. “But what if it ruins his family?” Armin asked. “I suppose I could help him... What company does his father work for?” Verity asked. “I don’t know. Nathaniel never told me the name... Just that it was an international one based here.” Alana shook her head. “There aren’t many other international companies based in Astaria... VKT is the biggest one, and you know our line of succession.” Verity sighed. “It shouldn’t be hard to figure out which one his dad works at... Based in Astaria, and with a new, young, fresh out of university, Vice President.” Sam conversed. “Also, with an employee named Francis Jacott.” Alana added. Verity pulled out her phone, logged into her VKT corporate account and did some digging. After five minutes, she had Francis’ name and face on her screen. “Found him. He works at Elite Solutions. They’re significantly smaller than VKT, but they’re large enough to have a good reputation throughout the financial solutions industry.” Verity explained. “Any explanation to his demotion?” Alana asked. “Funnily enough, it looks like its because the new VP is the son of a longtime friend of the CEO... Not quite aristocracy, but old enough money to almost be on par with the Roster Clan. From what I gather, the Jacott and Carello lines are still somewhat “new money”... Not even proper “Nouveau Riche”. Even with clawing his way up the corporate ladder, Francis Jacott was never going to actually get the President, Vice President or CEO positions. The demotion itself was most likely a point to put him in his place.” Verity continued to explain as she looked at her phone. “So, Nathaniel’s father is so desperate to become part of the aristocracy that he’s willing to spend money he doesn’t have, put his family into debt and probable jeopardy, climb up a corporate ladder that he will never actually reach the top of, marry a passive aggressive model who needs to eat a sandwich, let his daughter terrorize the school, and brutally beat his son into submission while demanding perfection. Am I missing anything?” Sam summarized and asked. “You forgot that he’s willing to blackmail and coerce his kids into using connections to us so that they can try to get closer to the Mekina and Chevalier families.” Alana added. “Melody, I’m guessing that you won’t let me have a talk with the CEO and President of Elite Solutions to possibly get him demoted even further?” Verity suggested, almost sadistically. “No, V! Please don’t make their financial situation even worse! Nathaniel is worried about that enough as it is!” Alana begged. “I’ll respect that... BUT, you will be the one to call Social Services.” Verity ordered. Alana looked down, her face filled with dread. “Alright... But I’m not going to do it today. He’ll know for a fact that it was me if I call today.” She sighed. “He’s gonna know it was you no matter what...” Sam rolled her eyes. “Sam, this is going to be hard enough on her.” Verity scolded. “I’ll call tomorrow. Nothing would get done today if I called on a Sunday.” Alana nodded.

After several hours of planning, plotting, gaming, anime, and lunch, Armin and Kentin went home. Verity sat down at the kitchen table and called Sam and Alana over to her. When the girls had sat down, she looked at them very seriously. “You didn’t answer one of my questions earlier. Why can’t your mother know about this?” She asked. “Why would we get mom involved in helping someone get away from their abuser when she won’t even get Carol away from us?” Alana asked back. Verity’s eyes widened. “Mels has a point. She’s been told by us, you, Nate, Viktor, Rini, Agatha and Seraphina what Carol has been doing to us and she still won’t fire her.” Sam pointed out. “Despite that, your mother still loves you.” Verity comforted. “V, you can’t escape your abuser because you’re married to him and divorce would be extremely messy because you’re an heir to an extremely old, aristocratic, family. However, you help put distance between Carol and us when you can. It was obvious that, if you’re available, we’d come to you about this.” Alana explained. “You know for a fact what its like to not have an out from that hell.” Sam added. Verity thought for a couple of minutes and sighed. “You know she’s gonna figure it out before this is all said and done... And I may not be available to offset the heat of how she’ll react.” She acknowledged. “That may be, but you can help us now.” Alana sadly sighed. “Okay. But, I mean it... Your mother may be alright with you two keeping things from her, but I’m not. If ANYTHING happens that you need help with, you had BETTER tell me!” Verity nodded.

★

Verity’s car stopped at a phone box on the way to Sweet Amoris High School. “You can do this, Melody. I believe in you.” Verity cooed as she put her hands on Alana’s shoulders. "Its the right thing to do. He has a chance to escape.” Alana muttered as she dialed the number to Social Services. When an agent picked up on the other end, Alana took a deep breath. “Hello. I’d like to put in an anonymous tip. I have reason to believe that a student at Sweet Amoris High School is being brutally abused by their parent...” She started. As the agent asked her questions, she presented them with every ounce of her knowledge on the subject. The bruises on Nathaniel’s back, what she heard his father doing to him in the Janitor’s Closet at school, and the events of that Saturday night. “Are you sure you’d like to remain anonymous, Miss? These are very serious allegations.” The agent asked her. “Yes. I’d rather you focus on Nathaniel’s welfare. If he can escape his father, then that’s all that matters.” She replied. “Of course. Thank you for this tip.” The agent stated. “Thank you.” Alana muttered as the phone call ended. “I’d ask you if you feel better... But its only just begun. Let’s get you to school.” Verity sympathetically smiled as she led Alana out of the phone box and back to the car.

Francis Jacott’s and Verity Mekina’s cars pulled up to Sweet Amoris High School almost at the exact same time. The difference and style of wealth could easily be pointed out just by the style of cars. Francis drove a Lexus that was just barely on the tale end of what could be considered “high end”. Verity’s car on that day was a brand new Rolls-Royce. When Verity’s car parked, her driver got out and opened the door for Alana, bowing to her as she stepped out. “Melody! Have a great day at school! I will be here to pick you after school is over! Let me know if you need anything! I love you my sweet goddaughter!” Verity waved as she stood by the car. “Love you too V!” Alana mused. Sam and Ken walked up to the car. “Thanks for letting me walk with Ken this morning V!” Sam smiled as she hugged her. “Of course sweetie! You need time with your heart! Now, Ken, you be a gentleman to my Sam!” Verity sweetly commanded. “I will, Ma’am!” Ken saluted. “Mrs. Mekina! I just wanted to thank you for the make-up! Its working wonders!” Amber announced as she ran up to them. “I’m just glad that you and my Melody have put your differences behind you! Amber, right?” Verity cooed. “I’m glad too! Alana is a great friend!” Amber faked. Alana looked over at Nathaniel, who was talking to his father through the car window. “I hope you’re okay...” She thought. “Well, girls, I’d really love to stay... But, you all have school, and I’m spending the day with Agatha. I can’t wait to see what kooky activity she’s got thought up for us today!” Verity laughed. “Love you V!” Alana smiled and hugged her. “Remember, Melody. Your family is a long line of great warrior women. Their blood courses through your veins. No matter how painful the battles are, you must stand up tall and not let your enemies get you down.” Verity whispered into Alana’s ear during the hug. “Be safe today girls.” She mused to Sam and Alana as she got back into the car. “Nathaniel! Hey!” Alana waved when he walked up to her. “Is your mom enjoying herself?” He asked. “Yeah, apparently she and Nate have been hanging out with a bunch of his actor friends.” She chuckled. “That’s good. Did you have fun yesterday?” He sweetly asked. “Yeah. Armin came over and we watched anime and video games.” She replied. “Armin has been spending a lot of time with you...” He huffed. “Nath, am I detecting a hint of jealousy?” She smirked. “What?! No! I just think that it’s been a while since we hung out...” He nervously spat. “It has been a while since we hung out...” She began as she bit her lip.

It didn’t take long for a new set of rumors to begin circulating about Alana. Within the first few classes of the day, it had gotten to her that people thought she and Nathaniel were dating, that they thought she was cheating on Armin, that Castiel was still hoping to have a chance with her, and that she was being taken “under Amber’s wing”. “Peggy must be having a slow news cycle.” Alana thought. Melody was the one to bring the rumor about her relationship with Nathaniel to her attention. Kim and Iris forced Melody to confront her by the stairwell. “Alana, are you and Nathaniel dating?” Melody asked, nervously. Alana looked past the girls and noticed Peggy hiding by the basement door. “Okay, I’m going to address every last rumor. No, Melody. Nathaniel and I aren’t dating. But, I’d like to point out to you, he’s already told you “No.” at least once. Armin and I are not dating. We’re really good friends. If any of you actually enjoyed playing videogames and watching anime, you’d probably be invited to join us when we hang out. About Castiel? I don’t know how he feels about me past being my friend. When we hang out, we mostly talk about music. And as for Amber taking me “under her wing”... Why would I need to do that when she’s the one trying to get closer to MY godmother? I just want her to stop tormenting me, so I play her game.” She explained. “You know I like Nathaniel.” Melody angrily reminded Alana. A flicker of anger flared in Alana’s eyes. Her mind turned to what she witnessed over the weekend. She gathered her thoughts and looked at Melody with conviction. “That may me, but he’s not a piece of meat. He’s a human being and can make his own choices. And if you’re coming at me like this now, when he’s single, I almost don’t wanna imagine how much of a terror you’re going to be if or when he does get a girlfriend.” Alana retorted as she walked off.

“Have you heard anything?” Armin whispered when they sat down in their final class of the day. “No. I’m wondering if they’re not going to do anything until after school is out for the day.” Alana anxiously replied. “That’s possible. It would be better to surprise his dad that way.” Armin quietly agreed. “You there! Alana, Armin, you know that whispering in my class is prohibited when I’m trying to give a lecture!” Mr. Faraize called. “Oh! Sorry, sir!” Alana nervously chuckled. “We won’t do it again!” Armin laughed. Nathaniel shot them a jealous look from Alana’s other side. “Well, what is so important that you had to interrupt my class to talk about it? Surely, it can be shared with the class.” Mr. Faraize inquired. Armin looked at Alana nervously as she took a deep breath. “Well, you were discussing the cultural impact of such medias like television and movies. We were simply, quietly, adding to that discussion. Since anime, video games, and comic books apply to that same argument.” She beamed. “So, you were paying attention! Yes, they very much do apply to to this argument! Since they are all mediums that have shaped global culture and society. Look at the popularity of the Marvel Cinematic Universe... All because people like Stan Lee and Steve Ditko decided to be artists and story tellers.” Mr. Faraize smiled. “Don’t forget! Many significant people like anime as well! There are multiple world leaders who enjoy One Piece. Dragon Ball has changed the lives of children everywhere and has the world record for “Longest Fight in Shounen Anime History”. And Sailor Moon has encouraged girls to be their best selves by telling them that even crybabies who aren’t good at math can still save the world, so long as you are pure of heart and have good friends fighting alongside you.” Alana explained. “Don’t forget! Pokémon has continued to teach our generation to be kind to animals and be friends with them!” Armin piped up. “NERDS!” Someone called out. “Calm down class. Miss Roster and Mister Keenan did add valid points to today’s lecture.” Mr. Faraize ordered as the bell rang. While everyone got up and gathered their things, Mr. Faraize looked around a little frantic. “You know what? No homework tonight!” He announced.

“So, Alana? What are you doing tonight?” Nathaniel asked as he walked up to her, Armin, Sam and Kentin in front of the school. “Verity wants to hang out. Just us girls.” Alana replied. “She’s trying to get Severina here at some point, but its a bitch to pull someone out of their fancy, English, private school... Especially with her husband overriding her every wish.” Sam explained. “Oh... I thought we could hang out tonight...” Nathaniel looked down. “I wish I could, but, Verity’s husband comes back from his business trip at the end of this week, and Mom comes home tomorrow afternoon. She wants to have a special “girl’s night” with us before mom gets home.” Alana disappointedly sighed. “I can hang out man!” Armin cheerfully piped up. “Sorry, Armin... I kinda just wanted to hang out with Alana. But, thanks for the offer.” Nathaniel sadly grinned. “Oh! Some other time then! I’ll make a gamer out of you yet!” Armin beamed as Nathaniel began to walk towards his father’s car. “What was that about?” Sam asked. “I’m not entirely sure... I think he doesn’t wanna go home...” Alana observed. “Well, considering how much of a bastard his dad is, its no wonder he doesn’t wanna go there.” Armin clenched his fists.

★

Several days passed without anything being done by Social Services. Lynne came back from her trip asking a lot of questions that Alana couldn’t answer. Verity did everything in her power to distract her friend. Over the course of those days, Nathaniel got progressively more and more terrified whenever his father entered the room. There were several times Nathaniel asked Alana if her weird behavior had something to do with what she had witnessed at his house. She hated lying to him, but she knew it would be a lot worse if he knew what she had done before Social Services did anything. Amber’s behavior got worse when Verity wasn’t looking... And Peggy had begun looking for her next scoop. Even Castiel asked Alana what was going on. “I can’t tell you.” She’d said when he cornered her in the basement on Wednesday afternoon. “Do you not trust me?” He asked. “I do. But, I don’t want it to get out... And, apparently, the walls have ears.” She replied, shooting the recording equipment by the basement door a sharp look. Castiel looked behind him and noticed the equipment move. “Peggy, at this rate, you’ll be no better than the paparazzi that chased Diana to her doom!” Alana spat. Peggy muttered something that Alana couldn’t quite hear and ran off. When the girl was out of earshot, Castiel looked at Alana very seriously. “Can you tell me now?” He asked. “Not yet. I’ll tell you once something happens. I promise.” Alana sighed. He looked at her, angrily. “You know what? Don’t even bother!” He almost yelled as he stormed off. Alana looked at him, tears beginning to form in her eyes. “I do trust you Castiel... But I’m not ready to tell you...” She muttered.

★

Friday morning, the second Sam and Alana entered the school grounds, Peggy ran up to them, rather giddy. “YOU!” She yelled, her microphone in her hand and stretched out towards them. “What do you want now?” Sam asked, instantly annoyed. “I’m sure you know everything, Alana!” Peggy almost shouted. “What are you on about?” Alana asked. “Nathaniel and his parents were summoned to a meeting with the principal this morning. They are still in her office. I couldn’t understand why, exactly, but things don’t look good... For Nathaniel, in any case.” Peggy explained. “And like the parasite you are, you’re taking this like a kid at Christmas.” Sam sneered as she rolled her eyes. “So, Alana, have you decided to tell me what everyone will find out soon enough?” Peggy asked as she excitedly shook her microphone in Alana’s face. Alana took the microphone out of Peggy’s hand, looked her dead in the eyes, and smirked. “Peggy, you are not a journalist. You are a paparazzi. People like you have gotten innocent people killed. You don’t look for news. You look for scoops. It doesn’t matter how scandalous it is. In fact, the more scandalous it is, the better. People like you are the reason why our parents have taught us to swear and flip people off the second we see cameras and microphones. Since Sam and I first got into this school, we have tried to help you actually become a legit journalist and not a paparazzi... But, you refuse to actually follow our advice. Whatever is going on with Nathaniel and his family is not “news” or even a “scoop”. Its a family matter that should NOT be published in the shit rag you that you’ve turned the school newspaper into. Go fuck yourself!” Her voice rang throughout the hallway and made everyone silent. Peggy stood there, shocked as Alana handed back the microphone. “So, this is what happens when Melody Roster is pushed too far?”, “I’m glad someone finally said it! The newspaper lost integrity last year when Peggy took over!”, “Alana went off!” Several students could be heard muttering throughout the hallway. Sam noticed Mr. Faraize in the hallway and looked into his eyes. “I hope you realize, if you’d like to punish my sister for what she just did, you can always talk to our mom! She, Nate, and Aunt V were the ones who set the rules in place when it comes to how we deal with the paparazzi!” She announced.

Alana ran down the hallway towards the Principal’s Office. “Prepare yourself for the worst.” The voice in her head ordered. “Hey!” Nathaniel called as soon as she saw her. He was clearly seething. “H-Hey..” She nervously breathed. “I can’t believe you are here trying to listen in after what you did.” He chastised. “Nathaniel... Please listen to me... What I did... I did it to help you...” She quavered. “I told you not to talk about what you found out. But of course, it was out of your control. And this time, you went too far.” He scolded. Nathaniel’s anger almost prevented her from lookin Alana in her eyes. “I.. I just...” She fearfully began. “Because of you, things are even worse. Social Services came to my house and now, even the teachers are getting involved!” He did his best to not shout at her, however, his best efforts had begun to fail. “Nathaniel... I couldn’t sit by and do nothing...” She yelped. “You are such an idiot! I told you that I didn’t need help! Because of you, my dad may lose everything, or worse, go to prison! Amber is shocked and upset. She doesn’t understand what is going on. And my mom refuses to talk to my dad, as if he was an embarrassment!” He exploded. Fear, sadness and anger filled Alana. She put every molecule of effort into not letting it bubble over. “Because of me? I’m not the one who struck you! I was just trying to help you! I just wanted to make things better for you!” She almost began to cry. “Congrats, really... Once again you did a really great job! Without proof, Social Services won’t do anything anyway. And I can assure you they won’t find anything.” He sarcastically applauded. “Nathaniel! Come on, we’re leaving. Obviously, the Principal has nothing else to say.” Francis barked. His eyes turned to Alana, cursing her very existence with every second he looked at her. Nathaniel shot her an angry look as he and Amber left with their parents.

“I knew it... He hates me... I shouldn’t have done it... I don’t care if its the right thing... He hates me...” Alana thought. Tears had already begun to stream down her face as she held her mouth closed. “Get out of here. You have to go find someplace private. NOW.” The voice in her head ordered. Obviously, the main school building was out of the question. “Go to the Locker Room. No one will be in Gym right now...” The voice in her head commanded. Without another thought, Alana was running to the deepest part of the Locker Room. On her way there, she passed Castiel. “Alana?” He asked. She didn’t answer, and kept running. When the door firmly closed behind her, she found a corner near the showers, crumpled onto the floor, and breathed heavily. With each breath, her emotions bubbled and boiled. It didn’t take long for her breathing to turn into one long, fearful, sad, scream as tears streamed down her face. “Sam told me he was going to hate me if I did this... I should have listened to her... I shouldn’t have done this... I should have obeyed his requests....” She wailed. “Is this about what you weren’t telling me?” A voice asked from the doorway. Alana looked up and saw Castiel standing before her. “Go away Cass...” She cried. “Not until I get some answers. What happened with Nathaniel? Why was he yelling at you like that? Why did you not tell your friends about this? Why did you cuss Peggy out?” He asked as he got closer to her. He sat on the bench in front of her and looked at her seriously. “Fine... Its time you know...” She began as she proceeded to explain everything that had happened up until that point, except the part where she got into Nathaniel’s bed. “That bastard... That idiot thinks that if nothing gets done, he’s going to be okay... And when you actually try to help him, he repays you by treating you like garbage...” Castiel growled when Alana had finished her explanation. “It doesn’t matter anyway... Nathaniel is gonna help his father hide everything from Social Services... All I managed to do was make him hate me and make his home life worse...” She cried. “Alana...” He began. “Just stop, Cass... Nothing you’ll say will make me feel better...” Alana shook her head, stood up, dried her tears and left the Locker Room.

Rosalaya stood in the Gym, obviously waiting for her. “I was in the hall when Nathaniel yelled at you. I followed you to talk to you, but Castiel was quicker than me. From what I could hear, it wasn’t that difficult for me to put the pieces of the story together.” Rosalaya pointed out. Alana looked down. “Rosa... Between what happened with Deborah, and everything that’s going on in my family... I didn’t wanna tell too many people.” She explained. “So, who all did you tell?” Rosa asked. “Sam, Ken, Armin and Verity. They were sworn to secrecy.” Alana replied. “But you couldn’t tell me?” Rosa asked, annoyed. “Or me?” Castiel asked from behind them. “No! I couldn’t! How was I supposed to tell you two about this? “Hey guys! I know Nathaniel’s being abused by his dad. I recognize the signs because of what Carol has put my sister and me through and what Verity’s husband puts her and her daughter, Severina, through!” Doesn’t sound good, right?” Alana blurted out. Castiel and Rosa looked at her, shocked. “And now, Nathaniel hates me... I was hoping that, by some miracle, he wouldn’t by the end of this... But, as usual, I’m wrong...” Her voice quivered as she spoke. “Alana, you made the right call! You couldn’t have let the situation go on any longer!” Rosa assured her. “That idiot isn’t a martyr... Even he knows you made the right choice.” Castiel spat. Alana looked at them, thought for a couple of minutes, and sighed. “Thanks guys... I’m glad you’re both on my side with this...” She muttered. “Next time, don’t fucking keep shit like this from me.” Castiel shot as he smirked and walked away. “I hope that in the future you will remember you can count on me!” Rosa smiled as she hugged her. “Thank you Rosa... I’ll be sure to remember that!” Alana quietly mused.

Throughout the day, the school was filled with muttering about Nathaniel and his situation. No one could focus on their school work. "Even the teachers are off their game.” Armin whispered to her between classes. “Its obvious that the teachers have talked with Shermansky and they all know what’s going on.” Alana replied. The rest of the day felt as if it was going by in a blur. “So, going on autopilot for the rest of the day?” The voice in her head piped up. “Do I have a choice?” She thought back. “Yeah, you do. You can always stay engaged, take this thing head on and stand up tall. Or, you can go on autopilot, ignore everyone, and disappear.” The voice in her head told her. “I don’t wanna be here... Can’t I just go on autopilot until school is over?” She thought. “You could, but it wouldn’t do you any good.” The voice in her head replied. “But it would make this whole thing a lot easier for me to deal with.” She thought back. “Look, you knew what you were getting into when you started “Operation Purity Chalice”. You knew he’d probably hate you for a while... But, look at this way... There is a good chance that he’ll come around.” The voice in her head explained. “No... Not this time... I fucked up...” She thought back.

While on her way to find Sam, and Ken, Alana was cornered by Li, and Charlotte. “What did you do?” Li asked, angrily. “What, did your boss not tell you?” Alana shot back, annoyed. “Cut the crap, Alana. You did something, and now Amber isn’t at school.” Charlotte spat. “It is not my place to tell you. If you wanna know, either go to Amber yourself... Or read the next edition of the school paper... I’m sure Peggy has gotten wind of it and is currently writing her next tabloid slam piece, anyway...” Alana scoffed as she walked away from the two girls. Iris, Kim and Melody stood in the hallway by a set of lockers. “I hope Nathaniel is alright...” Iris muttered. “I’m sure he will be.” Kim grinned. “I don’t know what’s going on... All I know is that he yelled at Alana right before he left.” Melody shot Alana a quick smirk before looking back at the other girls with sadness. “If you honestly gave a crap about Nathaniel, you wouldn’t be focused on the fact that he yelled at me. You’d know what was actually wrong.” Alana condemned. “But, instead, she’s more focused on treating a man in actual pain like an object.” Sam chimed in. “Thank god you’re here! Can we go home?” Alana begged as she turned to her sister. “Yeah, let’s get the fuck out of here.” Sam sympathetically nodded, put her hand on Alana’s shoulder, and began leading them out of the school.

Lynne Roster did not look happy when the girls returned home. “I’ve had enough. Why did I see police officers and social workers at the Jacott Residence when I passed through their neighborhood? Why does it look like Melody has been crying herself sick? Why is my best friend not telling me things about my daughters’ activities? Why is that classmate of yours with the recording equipment hanging around the Jacott Residence and our apartment building? WHAT ARE YOU TWO KEEPING FROM ME?!” She did her best to not yell at Sam and Alana, but lost control of her voice when the apartment door closed. “Tell her Mels. Its time.” Sam urged. “But why though? Its not like she can do any good!” Alana blurted out. “Can’t do any good? I can’t do anything if I don’t know what’s going on!” Lynne called back. “Why should we tell you about Nathaniel’s abuse when you won’t even protect us from Carol?!” Alana shouted as she stormed to her room and slammed the door. The instant her door was closed, she closed the curtains, turned on her computer, and began blasting My Chemical Romance until she had fallen asleep.

Later that night, Lynne woke her up. “Come on my love. You need to take your contacts out.” She cooed. “You’re not mad at me?” Alana groggily asked. “I’m upset with you... But, after talking with both Sam, and Verity, I understand your reasoning...” Lynne replied as she sat at the foot of Alana’s bed. “Mom... Verity, Agatha, Seraphina, Nate, Sam and I have all told you what Carol does to Sam and me behind your back and you still won’t fire her. Why? She’s abusing your daughters and you can easily get rid of her for it. Because of that, I don’t see a reason to ask for your help getting Nathaniel away from his abusive father when you won’t get us away from Carol.” Alana sighed. “I’ve made sure to put distance between you two and her.” Lynne stated. “Distance doesn’t mean shit when she still looks for ways to torment and threaten us.” Alana shot. “Its complicated Melody. Carol has herself embedded in my contracts... I can’t get rid of her unless something happens that would completely destroy me.” Lynne explained. “And abusing your daughters won’t completely destroy you? Mom, we both know that’s horseshit.” Alana raised an eyebrow. “Sweetie, first... Please don’t swear so much around me... And secondly, I don’t want you to be the one to fight my battles. This isn’t something you should be dealing with...” Lynne insisted. “You’re right. It isn’t. But here we are. Your best friend is being abused by her husband. Your other best friend is dead. Your daughters are being abused by your manager... And the boy I like is being abused by his father. If I can change even one fraction of that myself, I am going to. I can’t sit by and watch the people I love get hurt. I can’t do anything about Verity. I want to help you and get Carol out of our lives, but its enough work keeping her as far away from me as I can manage. Nathaniel... By using Amber, and making that phone call, I know I did something good... I just hate the fact that he hates me for it...” Alana admitted. “Oh, my baby! You did the right thing with that boy... But with everything else, some fights are bigger than you... Look, if I work harder to but even more distance between Carol and you and Sam, will you promise to trust me more with things like this?” Lynne begged. Alana thought for several minutes. “I’ll try.” She nodded. “Good. Now, I think this weekend would be a good one to go to Weathering. Put some space between you girls and this issue. Give you time to think, and Nathaniel some room to breathe.” Lynne suggested. “Is there gonna be anyone at the house in Weathering?” Alana asked. “Aunt Skye and your cousin Freya might have said they’re coming down for the weekend...” Lynne smirked. “What about Alexander and Colin?” Alana inquired. “They’re visiting his parents in Wales. It’s just us girls this weekend.” Lynne replied.

Right before Alana fell asleep, she decided to send Nathaniel a text message. “I know you hate me right now... And I know you don’t wanna see me anytime soon... But, I’m going to Weathering until Monday. I hope you stay safe. Please just promise me you will.”

★

It was Freya and Sam that kept Alana from locking herself in her room for the whole weekend. When Freya picked the lock to her bedroom door, Alana wanted to be mad, but Sam, Lynne, Skye and Agatha all said that while Freya’s methods weren’t honorable, she did it for the right reason. Obviously, Alana’s and Nathaniel’s situation was not going to be kept a secret from Skye and Freya. “Oh my god... That poor boy! Melody, you probably saved his life in the long run!” Skye gasped when they sat down to dinner on Saturday night. “Skye, he’s hiding all of the evidence to protect his father! I didn’t do anything but make things worse and make him hate me!” Alana argued. “You still did the right thing, Mels. Although, I would have done something directly to his dad...” Freya acknowledged in between bites of her steak. “That’s because you aren’t nuanced or subtle... That would have only gotten me in trouble.” Alana sighed. “Melody... I’m sure that, once he has some time to let the dust settle, he will eventually be thankful for what you’ve done. Until then, you’ve just gotta be strong.” Skye reassured her. “That’s easier said than done...” Alana looked down at her plate. She had barely eaten any of her food. The image of Nathaniel yelling at her in the hallway played in her head on repeat. “You are such an idiot!” rang in her mind on loop. She shook her head. “I’m gonna go... I’m not really that hungry anyway...” She quietly announced. “Go where?” Lynne asked. “I’m not sure... Don’t worry, I’ll stay on the property.” Alana replied.

After dinner on Sunday night, Alana sat in the fetal position on the roof to the house while listening to music. Throughout the weekend, she had looked at her phone, hoping, praying, that Nathaniel would respond to the text she had sent on Friday night only to be met with nothing. Rosalaya, Castiel, Armin and Alexy had all messaged her, asking if she was okay, asking where she was and why she had left. She simply responded to them with the excuse that some of her Scottish family were around and they had gone to see them. They knew she wasn’t okay. And she knew how they were going to respond if she had lied to them, so she simply ignored the question. “How can I be okay... I tried to help him and it only made things so much worse... That’s all I ever do is make things worse... I want to disappear....” She muttered to herself. “You are such an idiot!”, “Because of you...” and  “Congrats, really... Once again you did a really great job!” continued to play an endless loop in her head like a broken record as “Hear Me Now” by Framing Hanley reached it’s chorus. “Every time I put myself out there and try to be there for someone, I just mess things up and make things go even more sideways... Maybe I should just disappear... Maybe if I do that, people won’t get hurt by my stupidity anymore...” She muttered. “Is that how you really feel?” A voice called. Alana looked up and noticed Sam and Freya looking at her from another flat spot on the roof. “Mels... You did the right...” Freya began. “STOP TELLING ME I DID THE RIGHT THING!” Alana loudly interrupted. Freya looked at her, shocked. “I DON’T CARE IF I DID THE RIGHT THING! Every time I do “the right thing”, I end up getting hurt! I’m so sick and tired of getting hurt for the people I care about! I get hurt for mom... I’ve gotten hurt for Verity and Rini... I got hurt for Viktor... And now I’ve gone and gotten myself cut apart for Nathaniel!” Alana cried. Sam folded her arms and looked at her sister, annoyed. “Melody... Get the fuck over yourself! I know that it’s not entirely your fault that you’re so self-sacrificing. But god damn it! After a while you have to stand up for what you believe is right even if it means getting hurt in the process! You’ve known this for years! Its literally part of our raising! I TOLD YOU that he might hate you for this! I asked you, in front of Kentin and Armin, if you were ready to accept whatever Nathaniel might do to you because of this and you said that you were! Now, get off your ass, put on your “big girl panties” and face this head on! You’re a Roster, aren’t you?!” She boomed. Alana looked at her sister, brokenheartedly. “Sam...” She gasped. “You’ll never be able to stand on your own as the head of the family if you aren’t able to stand on your own two feet now. Even more so, you have the ability to make everyone in that school kneel before you if you would just show some fucking confidence! The little bursts of it have been fun, but you need to be more consistent! Show everyone, especially Nathaniel Jacott, what Melody Alana Roster, the next head of the Roster Clan after Mom, is made of! I know my “big sister” is more metal than the weak creature sitting before me!” Sam thundered.

★

Tuesday afternoon, Alana found herself being dragged to Nathaniel’s house by Sam, Kentin, Armin, Rosalaya, Alexy and Castiel. “Please no...” She begged. “What did I say over the weekend about you being more metal than this?!” Sam called as she lead the charge. “Cass... You can’t be supporting this...” Alana pleaded as she looked at Castiel. “I’m just coming along to make sure you all don’t fuck things up any more than they already are...” Castiel rolled his eyes. “Alana, we all wanna make sure he’s okay... We’re going.” Rosalaya ordered. “Especially considering Amber wasn’t at school yesterday and today either.” Kentin commented. “I didn’t expect either of them to be there today anyway... Since their dad got taken away by police over the weekend.” Alexy noted. “Wait, really?” Alana asked. “This is what happens when you run away for a few days!” Rosalaya shook her finger. “In our defense, we really did have family in from Scotland.” Sam shrugged.

When they got to the house, Sam couldn’t help but scoff. “They really are trying to be part of the aristocracy! This thing isn’t even old enough to have their estate be considered part of the “nouveau riche”!” She laughed. “Yeah, I never understood how your family knows so much about that kind of thing...” Alexy pondered. “Remember, guys, The Roster Clan is centuries old, has estates in at least three countries, isn’t formally considered noble or aristocratic, but is old enough and well off enough to be respected by the Astarian Crown. If it wasn’t for our disdain for formal titles, we’d probably have had some knights and dames in our family by now... The Astarian Crown has been trying to give titles to our section of the family for at least two hundred years.” Alana explained. “All while the English Crown has been trying to wipe us out for being Pagan, for supporting Irish, Scottish and Welsh freedom, and for openly supporting the destruction of the monarchy for centuries.” Sam added. “So, basically, we’re aristocracy-adjacent.” Alana clarified. “Welp, let’s get this over with!” Sam announced as she rang the doorbell. Within seconds, the gate opened and Adelaide appeared before them. “You? What are you doing here?” She asked, cringing at the sight of Alana. “We were worried about Nathaniel. He hasn’t been to school since Friday morning.” Rosalaya announced. “Can he come out and play?” Sam asked, almost mockingly. Adelaide looked down at the group of teenagers standing before her. “My husband and son are out, they won’t be back for a while.” She coldly replied. “Well then, can we wait for them?” Armin did his best to sound as cheerful as he could muster. Adelaide turned her eyes to Alana. “No. You aren’t welcome here anymore, Miss. Leave, before I call the p... Before I get angry!” She yelled. “Go on! Call the police, bitch! Even if Mels and I are arrested, our records will be expunged before the press even get to us!” Sam dared. “Sam, stop!” Rosalaya hissed as she turned back to Adelaide. “You don’t have to yell Ma’am. Just tell us if Nathaniel is alright.” She pressed. “He would be better if you would stop bothering him! Now leave!” Adelaide ordered as she stepped back and pressed the button to close the gate. Rage filled Alana’s body, replacing the fear that had held onto her for so long. “Sam, give me a boost! Now!” She ordered. “Alright.” Sam nodded. When Alana’s head peaked over the wall, she looked Adelaide in her eyes. “He’d be better if he had a mother that actually gave a damn about him! Instead, you and your bastard husband only care about status! You really think you’d be accepted by the aristocracy by acting this way? They may be abusive to a certain extent, but even their standards are higher than this! You’re nothing more than a pathetic, power hungry, COWARD!” She yelled, letting every drop of venom in her mouth pour into her words. Everyone but Sam looked at Alana in horror. “There she is! The next head of the family! I hope this Metal Melody starts coming out more and eventually stays!” Sam cheered. “Woah.” Castiel and Armin gasped, almost in unison as they both tried to hide the fact that they had begun to blush. “That’s new... Alana, I didn’t know you could be like that...” Rosalaya blurted out. “I’m not surprised she wouldn’t let us see him.” Alana growled. “He and his dad might be with the police.” Alexy suggested. “Look, we really can’t do anything else now... Let’s all go home and wait for him to go back to school.” Kentin suggested. “You’re right. As it is, I’ve gotta do something to commemorate my sister’s spine coming in!” Sam mused.

★

Wednesday morning, a familiar face returned to school. “Alana, guess what? Nathaniel is back.” Rosa sweetly stated as Alana stood by Sam’s locker. “Oh, really?” Alana asked, almost nonchalantly. “Yes! I wanted to talk to him but Peggy was already annoying him.” Rosa nodded. “Just like the little parasite she is... I’m gonna have to bust her equipment up.” Sam spat. “That’s fine. I’m sure if he wants to talk, he’ll come to me before the end of the day.” Alana huffed. “Alana, I’m happy that you’re not letting yourself be completely pushed around, but you should go to him at some point. It might be good for the both of you.” Rosa suggested. “Or, it’ll end in disaster if he continues to be an asshole to me for being the one to go up to him.” Alana rolled her eyes. “You both can be so stubborn... Just make you two talk today, please!” Rosa urged as she walked to class. “Go on, find him... Get this over with.” Sam insisted. “Really? You told me to be more “metal”. Metal doesn’t move. It can be fixed when it’s dented, and cleaned when it rusts. And Adamantium and Vibranium are both indestructible.” Alana pointed out. “We both know its better if you rip the band-aid off.” Sam flatly replied. “Fine! I’ll go find him...” Alana huffed as she walked off.

Throughout her search, she found several other students instead of Nathaniel. “Nathaniel completely ignored me earlier....” Melody lamented when Alana found her by the Science Lab. “Get used to that.” Alana thought. “Where is he?” She asked. “I don’t know... He left when I started talking to him.” Melody sighed. “Great... I’ll keep looking.” Alana replied as she ran off. When she got to the garden, she found Kim. “If he’s going to be so unpleasant, he could have stayed home!” Kim blurted out upon seeing her. “Let me guess... Nathaniel.” Alana observed. “Yeah... I was supposed to give him an absence note and he just sent me away! I don’t know what his problem is, but it better not last long.” Kim huffed. “If you actually knew his problem, you’d change your tune. But you don’t, so I’m telling you to change it. I get he’s being an ass, but being a dick to him won’t make his attitude any better!” Alana shot as she walked out of the garden. “Did you see he’s back?” Alexy asked as she entered the classroom. “I haven’t seen him yet... But I’ve heard he is.” She shrugged. “You might wanna stay away from him... You know he’s not in a good mood.” He suggested. “Yeah, it sounds like he’s become a monster. Good thing there are old legends about my family being monster hunters!” Alana sarcastically smirked. “Remember girl... There are stories saying that your family has slain dragons, vampires, and other monsters... Don’t forget, your great grand-father fought real monsters in the last great war! And you have stood up to Carol on multiple occasions! Whatever Nathaniel has become, he can’t be nearly as bad as what you and your family have already faced!” The voice in her head cheered.

Right as she was about to give up, Alana opened the door to another classroom and found the beast that everyone had told her to stay away from... Nathaniel. “I was just thinking that it was strange that you hadn’t come to see me yet.” He grinned. “Weren’t you the one who basically told me to stop looking for trouble?” Alana cocked her head. “Alana... You betrayed me...” He spat, instantly becoming annoyed. “Oh, please. I told you exactly what made me do it. The reasons why I instantly knew what was being done to you. And you decided to stab me in the chest for it. You know that what I did was the best option to help you....” She began, allowing a certain amount of venom to seep into her words. “STOP! You don’t have any idea what you’ve started! The police came to my house Alana, the POLICE. They took my dad and asked me questions. I thought my dad was going to have a heart attack!” He yelled. “THAT IS IT! I HAVE HAD ENOUGH OF HIM PATRONIZING ME!” Alana thought. “I DON’T HAVE ANY IDEA WHAT I’VE STARTED?! I DON’T?! Do you have ANY IDEA what would happen if what Carol has done to my sister and me got out? YOUR family isn’t aristocracy, proper “nouveau riche” or even aristocracy-adjacent! MY family would be FUCKED! My step-dad’s reputation would be RUINED! Or, hey, let’s talk about Verity? The reason WHY I told her isn’t just because she’s one of the major people putting distance between Carol and us. SHE literally can’t escape her abuser BECAUSE of the aristocracy! The ONLY reason why Severina doesn’t get physically hurt, is because she was sent off to a fancy boarding school in England! But don’t worry! That doesn’t stop Achille Mekina from inflicting psychological damage from a distance! And if any of what Achille has done were to get out before Verity is able to prepare herself and her family for the aftermath, the ENTIRE Mekina family would be up shit creek without a god damn paddle! But, I don’t have any idea what I’ve started, right? You should be THANKFUL that your family only has to worry about the Police, and the potential financial repercussions of your father’s actions... Which, mind you, if he didn’t spend so much money trying to be something even he should know that he’ll never be, your family might have never been in debt in the first place!” She exploded. “Alana... How dare you....” Nathaniel began. “No, how DARE you! You already knew that “Sweet Little Melody Roster” was only a front and that I’ve been suppressing my true self for years. I never lied to you about who I am and what my family is... And yet you have patronized me so much during this whole thing, it is a MIRACLE that I haven’t kicked your ass yet!” Alana snapped. He looked at her, utterly horrified by the angry woman standing before him. “You know I didn’t tell the Police anything... I don’t want my dad to go to prison...” He growled. “Of course you didn’t.” Alana rolled her eyes. “I’m hoping that this whole situation will make him think...” He sighed. “Oh yeah... Abusers who get caught once ALWAYS think about stopping....” Alana sarcastically huffed as she rolled her eyes. “You don’t see past the tip of your nose, do you?” He asked, even more annoyed. “At least I can smell fresh air! Your head is up your ass!” She spat. “My family is paying a high price for this whole ordeal. My mom and sister are alone. They are completely disoriented! My dad always took care of them, of the house, of everything. They don’t understand! And if this leaks out, my dad will lose his job!” He argued. “It is not anyone’s fault but their own that your mom and sister cannot exist without your father. Perhaps some time away from him, learning basic survival techniques, would serve them well... Oh, and, by the way.... Verity looked in to your dad’s position. That new Vice President of his company? Yeah... He’s basically aristocracy-adjacent. Your dad was NEVER going to get that placement!” She retaliated. “You looked into his position?!” Nathaniel looked at her, rage in his eyes. “Verity did. What, you really think she wasn’t going to? After I explained how hard your parents were trying to get into the ranks of the Mekina Family, it became in her best interest to look into it.” Alana replied. “Alana... My dad can’t lose his job...” He growled. “You do still have a crush on him, right? Or, have you turned your back on him?” The voice in her head asked. “As of right now... I’m not sure... I want to still love the man I see before me... But I can’t lay on my back and take him being a dick to me.” She thought back. Alana looked into his eyes, taking in every molecule of pain that covered him. “You’ve got to stop this. Metal Melody is great... But remember you’re doing this because you want to help him.” The voice in her head urged. “My anger is the only thing keeping me standing right now... I can’t let it go...” She thought back. “You have to. If you care about him at all, you have to calm down.” The voice in her head pleaded. “I’m not sure I do... Do I care about him? Was it just a crush? Has that gone away now? What’s going on?” She thought. “Think back... You know he’s just lashing out because of his pain...” The voice in her head told her. Alana thought back to every moment she had shared with Nathaniel up until that point. The answer was clear... Yes, she did still have romantic feelings for him.  At that moment, she did everything in her power to suppress the anger that continued to flood her veins. “Will you at least talk to him? For fuck’s sake... You now know that what he did to you was, literally, for nothing... You need to set a boundary and make sure he doesn’t cross it again.” She sighed. “That’s what I was going to do. My dad gets back home tonight. But even if things get better between him and I, know that I will never forgive you for what you did. You went too far this time.” He warned. “Fine. But, understand this... I will never forgive you for the way you’ve treated me during this ordeal.” She retorted. He looked at her, fury still ablaze in his eyes, stomped towards the door and slammed it behind him.

Alana stormed towards her locker and noticed Rosalaya and Sam standing by it. “Thanks for the advice! We just had a massive argument in a classroom! He’s never gonna forgive me for this! And I’m never gonna forgive him for the way he’s treated me! He didn’t tell the police anything because he wants to protect his family... Oh, and he was a massive, patronizing, jackass to me about it!” She called as the two girls looked at her. “What an idiot! He prefers to suffer rather than harming his father!” Rosa scoffed. “And you’ve called ME self sacrificing!” Alana snapped at her sister. She turned back to Rosa. “He thinks he’s protecting his mom and sister because they won’t know how to function without his dad. I’d almost call it “brave” or “honorable” if he wasn’t being such a complete d-bag to the rest of the world about it.” Her voice began to waver as if she was about to cry. “I’m gonna go... I’ve got something to do...” Sam announced as she angrily walked off. “Brave is stupid! What he is subjected to is unacceptable! I don’t understand why he doesn’t try to rebel at least a little.” Rosa huffed. “He did tell me that he’s going to try to talk to his dad tonight...” Alana sighed. “Well, that’s something. Let’s hope that it will help....” Rosa nodded.

★

The next day, Alana went to school, hopeful and fearful of Nathaniel’s situation. “You still angry with him?” Sam asked as they entered the main hallway. “A bit... But I’ve calmed down a great deal since yesterday.” Alana replied. Suddenly, Iris ran up to them. “It’s horrible!” She cried. “What happened?” Alana asked, instantly turning serious. “I-I... I just saw Nathaniel... I think something happened to him...” Iris sputtered. “Where is he?” Alana asked. “He went towards the second hallway.” Iris shuddered. “Give me your bag.” Sam ordered. “Thanks Sam.” Alana smiled as she passed her backpack to her sister and bolted to the second hallway. “No... Please don’t...” She thought. The second she saw him, she stopped dead in her tracks, tears coming to her eyes. “Nath...” She gasped. Nathaniel stood in the hallway, overcome by his nerves, and with bruises around his left eye. “Nathaniel... How... That black eye...” Alana almost covered her mouth to keep herself from crying, but instead continued to be frozen in fear. “I... I tried to talk to him...” He shivered. The next thing they knew, noises could be heard coming from the basement and Nathaniel immediately stopped talking. “If you could make less noise, some of us are trying to smoke in peace...” Castiel called as he got to the bottom of the stairwell. Nathaniel stared at him in silence. “Hmm, strange, I don’t remember beating you up!” Castiel chuckled. “Cass! Now is not the time!” Alana called. “Let it go, Alana.” Nathaniel ordered as he walked off, exasperated. Before she realized what her body was doing, Alana’s hand was already swinging towards Castiel’s face. When they collided, a “SLAP!” resounded through the halls and he looked at her, petrified. “What the fuck is wrong with you, Castiel?! You already know what he’s going through! Did you not think for a second about where he ACTUALLY got that shiner! You KNOW who did that to him! There was no need for you to make a joke about it!” She scolded. “Alana... It was just a joke...” Castiel huffed when he regained his composure. “Not a good one.” She spat as she turned and ran in the direction Nathaniel walked off in.

She ran into the same classroom they argued in the previous day and saw him standing by himself. “Nath... Please talk to me.” Her voice wavered. “There isn’t anything to say, Alana. I talked to my dad, to try to make him understand... That he went too far with me. But it didn’t work. Things escalated very quickly and... This... This is the result.” He sadly sighed. “Can I say something?” Someone asked from the doorway. They turned towards the voice and saw Castiel. “Here to make another bad joke?” Alana angrily asked. “Gosh, why are you following us?!” Nathaniel inquired, very annoyed. “No, Alana... I’m not here to make another “bad joke”.” Castiel replied. He turned to Nathaniel, shut the door behind him and leaned against the wall. “I don’t want to be like Peggy, but, seeing what you have on your face, and the conversation you just had with Alana, I couldn’t help but come to certain conclusions.” He explained. “I don’t see why this concerns you.” Nathaniel spat. “Castiel just lied to Nathaniel... Why?” The voice in Alana’s head asked. “To protect me? If Nath finds out that I told Cass, he’ll make my life more of a living hell...” Alana thought back. “That actually seems like a good theory... Especially with the way Castiel acts around you...” The voice in her head replied. “We have to talk, man.” Castiel stated in a very serious tone. “And if I don’t want to talk about it with you?” Nathaniel asked, getting more annoyed. “You don’t have a choice. Someone needs to get you out of this mess.” Castiel ordered. “Fine.” Nathaniel huffed as he followed Castiel out of the room. “I need a loooooonnnnnnggggg vacation after all of this! Or at least a spa day!” Alana sighed as she sat on a desk. “You might wanna go tell Rosa and Sam about this... You know what they’ll do if you leave them out.” The voice in her head suggested. “SHIT! You’re right!” She thought back as she bolted out of the classroom to find her sister and Rosa.

In her efforts to find her sister, she came across Melody. “Someone hit Nathaniel in the face... I think it has something to do with Castiel. They’ve been off together for a while now.” Melody worried. Alana rolled her eyes. “If Castiel was the reason Nathaniel had that black eye, the two of them wouldn’t be talking things out now. You know that for a fact. As it is, deep down, we all know Cass is a softie. He’s a good man with a good heart.” She replied, instantly annoyed. “I can tell that you don’t know them very well.” Melody sneered. “I know them both much better than you clearly do!” Alana scoffed as she walked off. When she reached the main hallway, she found Iris. “You shouldn’t hang around here, the principal is furious!” Iris fretted. “What happened this time?” Alana asked. “I don’t know, but I would prefer to not get involved.” Iris worried. Alana walked towards the Principal’s Office and heard yelling coming through the door. “...Inadmissible! In my whole career, I’ve never, NEVER, seen a student act out like this!” Principal Shermansky yelled. “But, Ma’am, its not what you think, I was just...” Peggy’s voice could be heard pleading. “Just what? Hiding behind the couch in the Teacher’s Lounge?!” Principal Shermansky angrily inquired. “I...” Peggy tearfully began. “I won’t tolerate this Miss Peggy! You will be in detention for three hours!” Principal Shermansky boomed. “Three hours? That’s it? The little parasite has been poking around, acting like a fucking tabloid for weeks, aiming to use Nathaniel’s pain and potential scandal, as well as any potential scandal from my sister and me, as fodder for the next issues of her damn newspaper! And she only gets three hours?!” Alana blurted out. “Miss Roster, get in here!” Principal Shermansky called. “Damn it!” Alana thought. “You know, you really shouldn’t be listening in to things like this.” Principal Shermansky cocked her head. “I’m not sorry this time! She has been hiding, poking, and prodding everyone for the latest “scoop” for the school newspaper. I’m sure even you know that it doesn’t sell well! No matter how many times she gets told that her style of “journalism” has gotten people killed, she doesn’t change! She doesn’t go after actual news stories for the school. If she did, there would be more about what the clubs are up to, and less trashy articles filled with gossip! But instead, she aims to plaster Nathaniel’s issues all over the school and use his pain to sell more papers!” Alana explained. “I thought you were my friend, Alana!” Peggy blurted out. “We stopped being friends the second you started writing gossip columns about Sam and me.” Alana snapped. Principal Shermansky turned to Peggy. “Is what she said true?” She asked. Peggy didn’t answer, but instead became very nervous. “Don’t make me repeat myself.” Principal Shermansky warned. “Yes. It is true.” Peggy hung her head in shame as she spoke. “Well then, I have no other choice.... You now have two weeks detention, and until further notice, you are out of the Newspaper Club!” Principal Shermansky announced. “WHAT?! NO! You can’t take that away from me! The Newspaper Club is my whole life! Please... I promise, I’ll do better... Please don’t do this to me!” Peggy begged. “Madam Principal... I don’t believe kicking her out of the club would do any real good...” Alana began. “And what would you suggest?” Principal Shermansky asked. “Force her to get back in touch with her roots. Demote her to the base position and make her answer to someone else for once. If she’s motivated to climb back to the top, and given the ability to do so on her on true merit, she might actually have one last chance to become an honest reporter.” Alana suggested. Principal Shermanksy thought about it for a couple of minutes. “That actually sounds like a really good idea... And Miss Sharon has been a good Vice President to the club... So be it! Instead of being out of the Newspaper Club entirely, we will get Miss Sharon in here to discuss which part of the Newspaper you will be designated to report on. If you do well and refrain from falling back into your current habits, you may be promoted to other positions within the club.” She announced as she nodded. “Can I go?” Alana asked. “Yes, Miss Roster, you may leave.” Principal Shermansky.

“Why were you in the Principal’s Office again?” Rosa asked as Alana closed the door behind her. “Let’s walk and talk!” Alana mused as they walked towards the Courtyard. “So, in a sense... You got Peggy’s punishment extended, and somewhat saved her position in the Newspaper Club?” Rosa asked when they sat down on a bench in the Courtyard. “Yeah, kinda.” Alana shrugged. “Can I still hogtie her with duct tape and smash her equipment?” Sam asked. “Please don’t...” Alana sighed as she facepalmed. “So? Did you talk to Nathaniel?” Rosa asked. “Yeah... But, Castiel cut us off... He said he has a solution to Nath’s problems...” Alana replied. “Castiel is helping Nathaniel... Soon Armin will start gardening!” Rosa chuckled. “Maybe he’ll help Nath get independent from his parents.” Sam shrugged. “You think so? That wouldn’t be a bad idea... Whatever, after what Francis has done, I hope Cass can work a miracle.” Alana grinned. “Let’s keep our finger’s crossed!” Rosa cheered. “I will NEVER garden!” Armin announced as he, Kentin and Alexy walked up to them. “Hey, if Castiel is helping Nathaniel, then anything is possible!” Sam laughed. “All I know is that, after all of this... I could really use a spa day.” Alana yawned. “I’d be up for that!” Alexy excitedly clapped. “I’m in!” Rosa agreed. “I think mom would approve too!” Sam smiled. “Yeah... Count me out. But, if you wanna marathon a few games or anime, I’m in!” Armin suggested. “We can do that another day. We still have Fairy Tail to catch up on!” Alana laughed. “We will get up to date on it!” Armin raised his right hand with his thumb and pointer finger in the shape of a backwards “L”. “Yes, we will!” Alana smiled. “Hey, Sam... Let’s go to the Café for a snack on the way back to your place.” Kentin suggested. “I could eat.” Sam grinned. Alana began walking towards the school. “Where are you running off to?” Rosa asked. “I’m gonna go hang with Cass... He’s still kinda upset about the whole “deal with Amber” thing and I need to make it up to him...”Alana replied.

The halls of the school had become particularly quiet. It seemed as if the whole ordeal had everyone worried for the next major move, and not many students had any idea what was actually going on. “Shit! Did I leave part of my homework in a classroom?” Alana thought. She went towards the door to her English Class and heard two people talking. “But... I never saw anything... I don’t understand...” Amber fretted. “I think that deep down, he knew what he was doing was wrong. He must not have wanted you and mom to see it.” Nathaniel explained. “I wish things would get back they were...” Amber muttered. “You say that because everything was fine for you. But for me, it was far from being the case. At least now, I have a chance to help change things. It’s the best solution. See you later, Amber.” Nathaniel replied, his voice low. “Y-Yeah, okay.” Amber looked down as she headed towards the door. Alana quickly hid behind a locker and tried to not be seen. When both Jacott twins had left the room, she ran into the classroom, grabbed her homework folder, left the room and went towards her locker. “Well, you’re in the right place at the right time. I was looking for you.” She smiled as she noticed Castiel standing by the stairs. She opened her locker, grabbed her bag, and swung it over her back. “I figured you’d be here sooner or later.” Castiel smirked. “So, did you find a good solution for Nathaniel?” Alana inquired. “Yeah. But you don’t look too good.” He nodded. “You know I’m not feeling good... Nathaniel is gonna be mad at me for a long time for this... And that is IF he doesn’t permanently hate me for it.” She looked down. “That’s what I don’t get... Why would he be mad at you for this? It’s not your fault that his dad hit him.” He questioned. “No... But I did violate his trust when I called Social Services... I used his sister to get to him... Even though he had warned me that his dad was having Amber use me to get to Verity... And I lied to you in the process.” She explained. “And that’s why you broke up with me?” He asked, a little smirk appearing on his face. “We have to be dating for us to break up... And you’ve always said that no man would want someone as “flat chested” as me... But, in a sense, yes... That’s why those rumors started.” She rolled her eyes. “So, did you lie to me when I came to you about it?” He asked. “No! I really meant what I said when you and Demon cornered me! There was just more to my reasoning and I didn’t tell you the whole truth...” Alana replied. “Fine.” Castiel sighed. “What did you tell Nathaniel, anyway?” She asked. “Its not up to me to tell you. Leave it to him for now, when that idiot wants to tell you, he will.” He stated. “Cass... Please?” She begged. Castiel looked at her and did his best to not blush. “Look, all I can say is that if it works, your adored “president” will be fine... Once and for all.” He reassured. “Oh, please tell me that you’re not having him do something illegal.” She begged. “It was the only thing to do...” He smirked. “WHAT?!” Alana blurted out. “Relax! I’m just kidding!” Castiel laughed. “Cass! You ass!” Alana laughed as she playfully shoved him in his shoulder. “Anyway... You can’t be here just to bother me about that idiot...” He observed. “Yeah... I came to start making it up to you... Do you wanna go get some pizza?” She invited. “Are you gonna talk about that idiot the whole time?” He asked. “Nah... But I do wanna talk about my cousin Freya. She and her friends have started a punk rock/emo girl band called The Electric Dragons.” She smiled. “Really? But if you bring up that idiot, I’m leaving.” He smirked. “Understood. Now, let’s go. I’ll buy.” Alana laughed as they began walking towards the parking lot.

★

Nathaniel didn’t show up to school for a few days. Everyone figured that he was taking that time to go through with what Castiel had told him to do. Happy to finally have a sense of peace in her home, Lynne insisted on taking the girls and some friends to the spa. Alexy and Rosa instantly jumped on the offer. Amber and her friends left Alana and Sam alone. Each time Alana had the idea to talk to Amber, Amber would run away before Alana could even say “Hi.”. Peggy had been demoted to strictly the sports section of the newspaper. She complained, but, thanked Alana for at least not letting her get kicked out of the club. Alana’s habits of hanging out with Castiel and Armin got back to their regular schedule, but everyone knew that some of the times she’d be alone in her room were simply placeholders for if Nathaniel wanted to hang out with her again. It became a bit of unsaid knowledge that Armin and Castiel had become the only ones in the core group to not know about Alana’s deeper feelings towards Nathaniel. Sam’s teasing towards Alana and her “harem” resumed and caused several spats in the Roster Apartment, but it was nothing Lynne couldn’t handle. In fact, she was ecstatic that her daughters were having simple “sibling spats” rather than actual arguments for a change.

Days continued to go by with no sign of Nathaniel’s return to school. Alana tried to text him, only to receive no response. It wasn’t until Amber had told her friends that her brother would be returning soon that news spread like wildfire. In an effort to keep herself occupied when she wasn’t spending time with anyone, she tucked her nose into her books. She decided to read Discworld by Sir Terry Pratchett in it’s entirety so that she could enjoy some adventure and magical hijinks. Alana was sitting beneath a tree in the school Courtyard reading Wyrd Sisters when Rosalaya appeared before her. “Alana?” She asked. "Yes?” Alana inquired as she closed her book and looked up at Rosa. Rosalaya looked at her very seriously. “Someone wants to talk to you.”

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

Honestly, I dreaded writing this chapter. Don’t get me wrong, I’m happy I wrote it. It is an essential chapter to Nathaniel’s story, and by extension, Alana’s. But, as a survivor of physical, mental, emotional, and financial abuse from the hands of my own mother and my mother’s best friend, it was hard to write. The episode itself was painful to play... By the time Episode 23 came out, I had already fallen in love with Nathaniel... But, this episode made me feel a true bond with him. We were both victims of our parents’ malice and selfish desires. Just as Nathaniel is able to move on from his trauma and live for himself, I have managed to do the same.

If your parent or loved one is abusing you, please seek help. Get yourself out of the situation. Go no contact if you must. If you can, seek therapy. Don’t wait for your parent to pass away like I did. 

I had contemplated having the banner focus on the bedroom scene between Nath and Alana... But, I decided it would be best to focus on the 5 major players in this chapter.

I picked Sharon to be the first name of the Vice President to the Newspaper Club because Peggy is the President... It’s a Marvel reference... “Peggy Carter” and “Sharon Carter”...

Special thanks to Belodie for having her playthroughs on YouTube! I watched her video to keep up with the timeline for this one!

[vi-sigoth]

if its not too personal, related to your rb on that marriage post, how did you get over being used up by your first relationship and eventually remarry? most women in your situation would either become much more feministic or whatever, and completely or mostly relinquish any thought of traditional living or "roles", or they would harden and never marry or enter a serious relationship again.

So, that relationship I was talking about—he was just my long-term boyfriend, we never married (thank fucking god, what a disaster that would have been, I’m so glad I didn’t get what I thought I wanted at the time).

But I’m very sad to say that I unfortunately did become “feministic” and very, very bitter. But I never gave into it entirely, and I never entirely gave up hope. When I was with my ex, we’ll call him “first ex” I started to hate men. I hated men, I didn’t trust them, I thought that all men were stupid and violent, and all men were liars, cheaters, and were not really capable of any form of love that I recognized. And if that sounds like a very sad way to live, it’s because it was. And SO MANY men and women think like this about the opposite sex. It’s just so devastating to me.

My parents are still married, but their relationship is very strange and rocky. I got with another guy shorty after First Ex. Now understand, First Ex, on paper, was actually pretty compatible with me. He was very based and racist, had similar religious views to me, and had similar moral, political and philosophical views. He was a lot older than me, which is what I thought I liked and what I wanted at the time.

But for all his claims about believing this and that, he didn’t live up to any of his views. Women were all untrustworthy whores to him, and he had cheated on every single girlfriend or wife he had ever had in his adult life, and was a porn addict. (Which is why, fellas and girlies, please thoroughly vet that cool “”””based”””” Tumblr trad person you’re thinking about e-dating. There are some people in the world who are very, very good at posturing) Second Ex was an on again off again thing for the next couple of years, and he was a degenerate leftist. Every single cringe leftist view you can name, he believed it. At the time, I lived in a section of a city that was very artsy, so I was surrounded by similar degenerate leftist men who were hitting on me all the time. Some of them were married or had girlfriends.

So given all of this, can you see why I hated men? I mean I hated men so, so, so, much.

But I never stopped believing that I would find a man who would loved me as much as I loved him, who would be my other half, who shared my views and values and who wanted to have me as a wife and mother to his children. I never stopped carrying that hope in my heart, even when I was lonely, single, and surrounded by losers. And that’s the other thing, the really difficult thing. Who dated a guy that pretended to be trad and based but actually wasn’t? Who then bounced almost immediately to a weaselly leftist cuck? Who surrounded themself with leftist urbanite male and female artists and academics?

Me. I did this to myself. I constantly accepted behavior I hated and disagreed with. I constantly bit my tongue while people around me agreed with things and behaved in ways I found disgusting and reprehensible because I was a weak coward that was afraid of making trouble or stirring the pot or standing up for what I believed in. I love my dad. He’s a dick. But do love him, and I owe part of the fact that I knew to eventually accept responsibility for my own behavior because I had a mother and a father that always tried to instill in me to not blame others for my problems and not have a victim mentality in my life. I had to accept that the reason I had this poisonous mindset, and that I was in my late 20s and still unmarried was about 95 percent my own doing.

It doesn’t excuse any of the horrible things my two ex boyfriends did to me, they were both uniquely awful people. But taking responsibility for my fuck ups, which was not an easy thing to do, because I REALLY fucked up my early 20s in so many ways, and recognizing that I needed to surround myself with better people is what led me to having friends that actually enrich my life and make it better, and not hating men so much led me to being open to men hitting on me (obviously, it didn’t mean I had to give them the time of day, just that I didn’t have to be so rude and aggressive like I used to be) and opening up my heart just a little bit is how I met my husband

I think that young people need to do this. You see men and women going the same, but opposite way. “All the women in this club are such whores! 😤” brother, what are you doing looking for a wife in a nightclub? “All men are trash!” Well sis, you aren’t generally going to find a good dude in your OnlyFans DMs. There’s a lot more to say about this, but really—for me, taking responsibility for my own actions and getting away from shit people is how I didn’t fall into the liberal feminist pit of despair.

And another thing? I realized that birth control is poison and I threw it in the trash one beautiful day in the early spring of 2020.

[songofclarity]

It’s so annoying when sexist JGY stans call Qin Su a “non-entity”. She has one good scene when she slaps JGY and demands answers from him about the death of their son, and imo there are some interesting parallels between her storyline and that of Mo Xuanyu.

Qin Su is far more than just one good scene and a slap!

I can see some parallels between her and Mo Xuanyu, but I actually see them as opposites. Jin Guangyao pulled her in because she was kind to him and useful for his ambitions at Koi Tower while he drove Mo Xuanyu off because he was a threat just by existing. The harsh way Mo Xuanyu was driven off due to accusations of incest set a precedent that the Jin don't tolerate such behavior, thus he pro-actively protected himself against any future accusations with Qin Su.

I see Qin Su as a very blatant parallel to Lan Xichen/Nie Mingjue and their relationships with Jin Guangyao. Yes, she has one good scene but it was also a scene about their life together and what happens now.

Qin Su buried her head into her arms, "Stop talking, stop talking, stop reminding me!!! I wish I never knew you, I wish that I'm not related to you at all! Why did you approach me in the first place?!" After a moment of silence, Jin Guangyao answered, "I know that you won't believe me, no matter what I say, but it was sincere, back then."

I do want to honestly believe Jin Guangyao liked her at the beginning. She was kind to him (just like Lan Xichen and Nie Mingjue were kind to him) and she never looked down on him because of his background (just like Lan Xichen and Nie Mingjue never looked down on him). She gave him a chance and accepted him and cared about him (just like Lan Xichen and Nie Mingjue had done).

Like god damn, she even agreed to have pre-marital sex with him when the family negotiations weren't looking good. For her part, I do think she loved him, innocently unaware or not that he was trying to baby trap her into getting that marriage agreement signed as plan B.

Qin Su was good and kind to him and never did him any wrong. That the public saw them both as this perfect couple, as the very standard of a respectful and caring relationship in the cultivation world, proves this. She was exactly what he needed and she gave him everything and he took everything from her in the end.

Because now she knows the truth. And we see how Jin Guangyao just refuses to see anyone's PoV except his own. He refuses to acknowledge he is a part of any problem:

Jin Guangyao, "A-Su, before you knew of it, didn't we live perfectly fine? You only felt uncomfortable and began to vomit today, now that you know. We can see that this isn't anything at all. It won't be able to do any physical harm to you. Your mind is the only thing doing all this." (ch. 47)

What happened to Qin Su isn't seen as actual harm because it's not physical. Sounds familiar, doesn't it?

[Jin Guangyao,] "Lan Xichen! In this life, I've lied countless times, killed countless times. Like you said, I killed my father, my brother, my wife, my son, my teacher, my friend--of all the evil in the world, what haven't I done?!" He took in a breath, rasping, "But I've never even thought of harming you!" (ch. 108)

Not to mention Jin Guangyao's manner of killing Nie Mingjue was to get inside his head and push Nie Mingjue to insanity--which is pretty much what he also does to Qin Su by pushing her to suicide. Jin Guangyao explains she is trapped with him forever and the whole cultivation world will be disgusted and repulsed by her if the truth comes out, which it will if she tries to leave him. MDZS is full of horror moments but this is perhaps the scariest of them all because situations like this are very, very real.

Yes, her slap is powerful and her anger over her son justified, but there is so much more happening in this scene with all its parallels and revelations and insight into just how fucked up Jin Guangyao can be towards the people he claims to care about.

[Jin Guangyao,] "I'm grateful for you until the end of my life, and I want to respect you, cherish you, love you. But, you have to know that even if A-Song hadn't been killed, he had to die. He could only die. If we let him grow up, you and I…" (ch. 47)

tl;dr Calling Qin Su a non-entity while being a fan of Jin Guangyao is very funny, like are people really outing themselves like that?

[wildernessuntothemselves]

wait why would oc be disgusted and hate her child and gyu if she agreed to have a child with him wtf??? Get a grip of ur fucking self oc , and also i feel like I started to hate oc cuz she’s giving me pick me vibes idk why but ig its bcuz of the “ i need validation from that fucking toxic society or i’ll feel worthless “ like give a damn about what other people think about u when u can easily live happily the way u want with who u want , and u will have a power cuz obviously ur the woman the PRINCE CHOI BEOMGYU “ LOVE “ more than anything and more than his wife especially when he’s psycho and would kill for her ??? is she stupid i really don’t know but if it was me i would choose to be with him and fuck everything , i would forgive him about the rape thing cuz he is obviously childish and insane and don’t wanna lose us and that’s not an excuse tho the thing he did is really unforgivable but it’s different when its from someone u love and from someone u know he loves u

i'm sorry anon but you are unhinged 😭

how is she "pick me" for wanting to be in a respectful marriage with a man who is offering her the chance to have control over her own life for once, instead of being gyu's glorified sex toy?

yes she'd have money and power but you think she'd live happily in a place where everyone around her hates her and treats her like a prostitute while she has to watch the man she's in love with be married to another woman and have children with her and put on this perfect family image to everyone while he's hiding her like a dirty secret?

and you'd forgive him for the rape because he's childish and insane? 😭 and no it's not different if it's someone you love or who loves you

listen i'm the biggest simp for gyu's character but there is a difference between rooting for him while acknowledging he's the trashiest trash and rooting for him and acting as if what he did wasn't that bad and the oc is being annoying for rejecting him.

i know i'm coming off pretty harsh but i highly disagree with the message you're putting out and this is not what i intended to do with the story at all and i'd be horrified if this is the message that people came out of reading the story with

[sukirichi]

HEY SUKI! im the 💳 anon fidkgskaia i actually sent ask a few times after i asked you about the gojo fic but i forgot to out the card emoji at the end LMAO BUT i hope you're doing great!

I just read dusk til dawn and i am hurt????? its depressing dijdhakahbaakia. BUT BUT BUT I ABSOLUTELY LOVEEEEEEEE HOW YOU WROTE Y/N???? i love female lead like that bcs i am that kind of woman and our wrath after being hurt constantly is just 🙏😇 pray for yourself lmao or should i say suna and iris should pray harder? Fidkkahaka

NO BECAUSE I WANT TO BEAT THEM SO BAD?????? its so annoying how iris had the audacity to say the crown prince wants her to be pregnant to like miss????? thats my husband??? you're so stupid wtf 😂

but the fact that iris had an inkling about how y/n might know about their forbidden relationship and suna deny it just shows that suna is just equally stupid as her fkifksbaoaokab irisuna = stupid dumb ass couple 😍

you certainly made a great job on writing this story(and your other story too) because the anger and sadness i felt when i read is just... 💀

I LOVE KITA SO MUCH 😭 i hope we get to see y/n interact with kita soon. and the smut scene between suna and iris before the wedding is so hot 💔 it breaks my heart bcs its not y/n but still you make them look hot.

but iris is not a royalty.. right? i mean princess maiko said that she is just someone who grew up in the castle but she isnt a royalty. hmmm

i like y/n and oikawa's interaction in chapter 5!! makes me happy that she is enjoying her hunt with him!! and the last scene 💀💀💀 its too early for iris to be dead lmao y/n is just playing 😍 so true queen

and i cant wait to see what will suna say to her odudmahsiska and i hope y/n just strikes some mean words back at him or something bcs the chat on his phone with iris is disgusting 😭 poor y/n

BUT i remember he said that he would absolutely would fall for y/n if iris wasnt in the picture.... and the fact that he doesnt mind about spending his life with y/n gives me hope... BUT y/n's happiness are much more important!

ok this is getting too ling i shall stop. i cant wait for the next update hehehe love you suki.

- 💳

anon, hello!!

and aww thank you so much, i’m happy to hear you enjoy dtd and love the YN! tbh, when i first pictured how dtd would go, i always imagined her as someone who was loving and kind but eventually had to turn insensitive and maybe even cruel but like there will be moments where you can tell that she’s still a good person yknow?

oh iris didn’t say that suna wanted to get her pregnant 👀 she’s married to kiyoomi, and to make it seem like they had a happy marriage, she was lying about how she and kiyoomi are “trying” and they want to have a kid so bad but also she was provoking YN 😭

also WHOA i made iris and suna look hot??? that’s a compliment thank you! and YEAH i can’t wait for kita and yn interactions too, they’re gonna be my favorite non biological siblings duo here <33 and yeah, princess iris is not royalty nor did she come from a noble family. she’s an itachiyama citizen by birth but became a refugee in inarizaki when she was a little girl, so she grew up more with inarizaki’s culture and customs. her background will remain a mystery for now, but it’s safe to assume iris is the most odd one out of everyone in the royal family.

I LOVE OIKAWA AND YN INTERACTIONS. oikawa finds entertainment in people’s misery and somehow makes any situation enjoyable for him, with the exception of his marriage because he’s always in a sour mood around maiko. and i agree, sending a dick pic to iris was horrible like it even made me feel soooo uncomfortable and disgusted 💀

and yes, yes! suna does like the idea of spending a lifetime with us. he genuinely enjoys our company and like us as a person, and if only he hadn’t met iris first, he would’ve fallen head over heels for us. suna can be saying some mean things but we’re actually his type 😌

i love you too, anon, thank you so much for reading dtd and taking the time to send me your thoughts about it! i appreciate it a lot <33