#i think she would get along with alhaitham. they would say nothing they would just get it

[jadestone2]

Voice of a melody 

Theme: fluff

Summery: your a famous singer who came to Sumero to perform, someone catches your eye. You could feel something brewing between you both

Pair: alhaitham x chubby reader

Stay here                              Next

A/n this is me building up the start, they just met after all! I can’t believe I already finished part 1

Rumors say that her voice was as pure as a melody, her eyes shining brighter than the richest ore in Liyue. She travels nation to nation, singing for people who live there, you were the talk of most conversations. 

You remember the day you performed on the stage of Fontaine, lady Furina and chief justice Neuvillette would be watching. You were extremely nervous, but everything went smoothly. 

“Your concert was a delight, I hope you visit Fontaine once more! I shall throw you an outstanding welcome that not others could do!” Furina’s voice rang in your head, her words made you feel so prideful. You even made the stoic chief of justice smile, his nod in approval. 

Sure, Fontaine’s theater was a great place for your concert. But that didn’t spark you that much, it was the land of overgrown vegetation that made you interested. 

Sumero was a land of many skills, from arts to dancing. It intrigued you, you’ve heard the scenery there was something that you could never experience again. 

The problem was, you were walking into a nation but yourself, you didn’t even know how to get there! But luckily, a group of people recognized you. 

They offered you a free ride to Sumero, which you gratefully took up their offer. The boat sailing through the quiet waters of Sumero, the soft music playing.

It was true, the scenery was perfect here! The grass was the greenest, the trees grew tall and reached for the sky, the flowers were bright in color.

The people who gave you a free ride told you countless stories of the dendro archon, she kept certain wisdom hidden to keep her people safe, the desert that contained many artifacts and secrets of kind Deshret. 

 You dip your hand in the cool water, giggling when the fish swam away from your hand. You grab at a lotus as you pass bunches of them, the light blue water flower in your hand. 

You quietly sing to the music, smiling wider when one of the children attempts to sing along with you. You feel a bit sad when the boat slows down at a dock, not wanting to leave the comfortable environment.

You pluck the leaves of the lotus off, putting the blue flower in the child’s hair. Warmth fills your heart when they cling onto your leg, not wanting you to leave.

Their parents had to pull them off, saying that you had important things to do. The child pours but eventually lets go of your leg.

“I appreciate you for giving me a free ride, I hope to see you guys another time!” You say, a big smile on your face.

You step out the boat, waving at them as they float away from your view. You couldn’t help but feel a tad nervous, after all you're in a land with nothing! 

Honestly, what were you thinking?! You just showed up on land without any idea how this was going to work. 

Your eyes shine as you notice flowers, you quickly walk over, plucking some. The flowers seemed to trail somewhere, you follow the path. 

The quiet sounds of music plays, you must be at a local place. You meet with people walking around and chatting with each other. 

You listen to people’s conversations, some of them were talking about a girl named Nilou who recently performed on stage. 

That’s exactly what you needed to hear, but where can you find her? Your face morphs into confusion when you see people walking out of a big door, the door led inside a tree? 

You quietly walk through the door, many little stores scattered inside, along with a stage in the middle. 

“Hey, isn't that the singer who’s supposed to perform here?” You hear a couple of people say, they definitely are talking about you. 

You accidentally bump into a red haired girl, almost falling down. She stumbles  not, before turning to face you. 

“I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to-“ You say, panicking.

“You're the singer! You came to Sumero to sing, right?” She says she seemed quite excited to meet you. 

“You’ve heard of me?” You ask, are you dumb? Everyone knows you, even the fatui knows about you! 

“Well of course! You managed to make everyone in Sumero eager for your arrival!” She replies, she gently pulls you with her. 

She helps you set up everything, now you have a place to perform! If it wasn’t for her you’d be so lost and confused about everything 

“Thank you so much, if it wasn’t for you I’d be so lost” You say, smiling at her. 

“Anytime! Oh, I’m Nilou! I already know who you are! Did you just arrive?” Nilou giggles, moving some of her hair from her eyes. 

You nod your head, now that you go where you're going, the song is figured out. All that is left is, where are you going to rest? 

That is extremely awkward and embarrassing, showing up to a place with nowhere to sleep. Maybe Nilou can also help you with that, though you don’t want to put too much work on her.

“I don’t exactly have a place to sleep” You mumble, blushing in embarrassment. 

“Oh! No worries, I have a friend who can help you out!” Nilou says, tugging you with her. 

You pant, she made you run to someone's house. She said her name was Layla. 

“Layla! Open up, please!” Nilou shouts, you awkwardly stand there. 

The door slowly opens up, revealing a blue haired woman. She seemed extremely sleep deprived, barely awake. 

“Oh Layla, you still haven’t improved your sleep schedule” Nilou scolds, her hands on her hips. 

“Mmh, I’m sorry. So much work” Layla says, rubbing her eyes tiredly. 

“Layla, do you think you can provide her a room? She’s a famous singer who is going to sing for the people of Sumero!” Nilou says, putting on puppy eyes. 

Layla nods her head slowly, it seemed like she didn’t even hear what Nilou said, just nodding her head. Nilou notices and takes her chance, smiling happily.

“Wonderful! Thanks again, Layla! Come on, we have many places for us to see!” Nilou says, gently grabbing your hands and leading you from Layla’s house. 

“Bye..” Layla says, closing her door.

“So, have you heard of a certain scribe and his roommate~?” Nilou asks, trying to indulge in a conversation. 

“A scribe and his roommate? Nope, doesn’t sound familiar” you say, almost bumping into Nilou again when she suddenly stops. 

“You’ve never heard of the scribe and his roommate?! Alhaitham and Kaveh?” Nilou asks, her voice getting louder. You nod your head no, shrieking when she pulls you with her again.

“Alhaitham is the scribe, he is super stoic and barely says anything nice. While his roommate, Kaveh, is loud and can be obnoxious sometimes” she says, leading you back to the heart of Sumero’s city. 

“I’ll tell you more about them, I’ve got some things to do. We’ll meet again!” Nilou says, giving you a quick hug. 

You watch her walk away, blending into the crowd of people. You let out a sigh, deciding it would be best to take a walk. You walk away from the busy city, sitting down at a nearby lake. 

You could see your reflection, you looked so worn out. Everything happened so fast, you desperately needed a break. 

Your performance was today, you needed to get ready! Somehow you remember the way back to Layla’s house, knocking on her door. 

You could hear the loud snores suddenly stop, someone scrambling to get the door. 

“Oh, it’s you” she says, mildly uninterested, or maybe she was just so exhausted. 

She opens her door wider, allowing you to come inside. You thank her, wandering inside her house. 

“Your performance is tonight, right? There will be a music festival happening right before..” She asks, she seemed happy to share information with you.

“Will you be attending?” You ask, looking at yourself in the mirror. 

“Mmh, I’ll go with you, if you want..” she says, you could hear the hint of joy in her voice. You smile, feeling the sudden burst of energy.

“I’d love that” you say, smiling.

It was now dark outside, Layla did end up coming with you. She chatted to you about astrology, you could tell she hasn’t been able to chat with anyone for ages. 

“You’ve got this” she says, watching you walk up the stairs of the stage. 

You wave at her, almost screaming when someone touches your shoulders. 

“It’s almost time, everyone is gathering up here. Are you ready?” Nilou asks, rubbing your shoulders to calm your nerves. 

“Just a bit nervous.. I think I got it” you say, wiping the thin sheet of sweat on your forehead. 

Nilou nods her head, sending you thumbs up as she joins the crowd. Every eye was one you, your voice flowing like a melody through the room. 

Your eyes dart around the room as you sing your heart out, making eye contact with a green haired man. You could feel your heart flutter, almost losing concentration. 

Everyone around him sways to the music, humming your tune. While he says there with a stoic expression, you could see that he seemed intrigued by you. 

The sun fully went as the night took place, the stars twinkling. Your voice fills the Sumerian people’s ears, the night filled with your melody. 

You were able to catch the eye of the scribe, you made him feel a certain way he’s never felt before. 

You could see Nilou and Layla standing together, poor Layla. Nilou was shaking her, she must have been excited to hear you sing. The quiet night is filled with your voice echoing. 

Please don’t make me beg, I desperately want to make this a series! taglist: @ihatelifesm @shyfurina

[genshin-impact-updates]

Lynette: Elegance in the Shadows — "Ow... that hurts my ears."

Hello, Travelers~ Today, we will be introducing a new character, Lynette! Taciturn and reserved, the emotions of this magic assistant are as inscrutable as a cat's. Let's get to know her together!

[The GIFs demonstrating Lynette's Normal Attack, Elemental Skill, and Elemental Burst were too large to post to Tumblr. Check the original article here to see them.]

[fallingdownhell]

Genshin men when you bring them home to meet the parents and they find out that your sister is the favored child of the family and she now has her eyes set on them.

Uhhh, I really like that idea.. It has so much angst potential... but am I gonna do it...?

Characters Included: Heizou; Thoma; Alhaitham

Content: gender neutral reader; reader has a sister; slight cursing; some jealousy themes; nothing else besides that

Word count: 2k words

Have fun reading!<3

Heizou

He is so fucking nervous!

He is good at hiding it, but you know him by now, you know how he gets and how he acts when he doesn't want others to know his true feelings, so you know and are aware of it

Heizou knows about your strained relationship with your family. Your parents having favoured your sister over you, no matter the circumstances

you did have contact with your family, but it was on a very low, unregular basis. Not that he minded that, though. It was your life, your decision. He's sure you wouldn't do that without having a good reason for it.

You had agreed on a nice, easy dinner at your parents house where they would get the chance to meet your boyfriend for the first time

upon arriving at the house where you spent your childhood, Heizou got more and more nervous. Somewhere along the way, he grabbed one of your hands, holding it tightly in his own.

you tried reassuring him, giving him a small smile as you held his hand, and it did help him a bit

soon, your mother answered the front door, followed by your father and introductions were made

Heizou held your hand throughout the entire thing, not daring to let go of you, but he seemed to relax more and more as the seconds went by

your parents noticed this as well, looking briefly at your joined hands, but chose not to say anything about it

you sat down on the table and a few minutes later, your sister arrived

she was acting entirely over the top with you, throwing herself at you and acting far too friendly. It made you somewhat uncomfortable, but you didn't say anything, not wanting to ruin the good mood that everyone has

for the first few minutes of dinner, everything seemed fine. Conversations were held, your parents asked Heizou some questions, nothing too bad

but then, your mom made some comment about you again, and it all went downhill from there for you

"You know, you're exactly the type of man we always wanted for our daughter. Are you sure you want to settle with (name)?"

then, your mother proceeded on to tell him every little thing about your sister. How she was working a much better job than you with better hours and more pay. How she was more beautiful than you. How she was just in general the better choice between the two of you

Heizou was dumbfounded by this behaviour and he now understood entirely why you had almost no contact with your family. This has been your entire life? Archons, he wanted to rip them a new one, for your own sake..

your mother was still rambling on, your sister just sitting there, smiling at Heizou, thinking that he was considering his options

everyone, including you, was surprised when he suddenly slammed his hands on the table, making all eyes fall on him

"With all due respect, Ma'am. I would rather die than do something so horrible to (Name). They are a wonderful partner, the best I could ever wish for. So, pardon us, but we are going to take our leave now."

with that, he grabbed your hand and you both walked out of the house, ignoring the calls of your family for you to come back and that they didn't mean it like that

secretly though, you were so glad and relieved. When your mother started saying stuff like that again, you just mentally accepted that this was it, yet again.

But Heizou surprised you and stood up for you against your own family. It made you feel so incredibly loved and cared for

that night, he hugged you closer to him than ever before, now reassuring you that you were his number one, that he loved you only and would do everything in this world, just to see you smile again...

Thoma

He's such a sweet partner, always caring about you and making sure that you're comfortable with him

Thoma likes to be a provider in a relationship. In the sense that he likes to cook for you, help you clean up, doing little things for you around the house. It's his way of saying "I love you"

Thoma will never push you into doing anything you don't want to, or making you open up to him

he's more than happy to take things slowly, earning your trust

and when you finally open up to him about whatever things you want to talk about, he's there for you, listening to everything you have to say without interrupting you

he also knows about the strained relationship with your family. He might not know all the details, but he knows enough to trust you in your decisions regarding the matter

he would never comment on it or make you do anything since it's not his place to judge or intrude on

with that being said, it just so happened that one day, while out shopping for ingredients, he ran into a certain someone

well, more like, a certain someone that ran into him. She profusely apologized for running into him and somehow got him tangled up into conversation

Thoma, being the nice person that he is, tried finding a way out of the conversation without coming across as rude. But, honestly, he just wanted to get home to you as soon as possible

Somehow, the conversation shifted and the topic of partners came up. Thoma said that he was happily taken right now, but she just kept pressing with her questions until your name slipped out his mouth

Thoma could clearly see how her eyes lit up at the mention of your name and he had a feeling that she would just bombard him with thousands more questions

so, he quickly made up an excuse and got out of there, walking home at a fast pace

once he arrived, he told you about the encounter he just had, which made you think. It all sounded strangely familiar to you, even his description of the person rang a bell somewhere in your mind

however, you didn't have much more time to dwell on those thoughts as a knock could be heard from the front door

exchainging glances, you went to answer the door, only to find your sister standing in front of you

eyes wide, you wondered how she found you here, but that question was quickly answered

"Oh, so you ARE his lover! God, now I'm so glad I followed him all the way back here!"

She threw herself in your arms, then quickly abandoned you and went inside your home. You were still so shocked and didn't realize this but when you came back to your senses, you quickly went inside again to the kitchen were you heard her voice from

Thoma was looking at you confused as well, but she just continued talking to him like nothing had happened and they were still out in the city where she ran into him

"...I mean, I'm so glad it was you! You're so handsome, and strong apparently for carrying all those bags back here! Say, why are you with (Name) anyway? Like, they have no redeeming qualities. You should look for more suitable partners, like me! I could give you so much more!"

She smiled at him like her little speech would be all it takes for Thoma to change his mind. The sad part was, you were expecting it to work as well, having dealt with exactly that your entire life, she always got what she wanted

"...Out.", Thoma said. It was the only thing he said, but his tone was so unusal from his normal self. It was cold and demanding, making your sister shiver in her place.

She quickly grabbed her stuff and left your home again, not saying another word

You looked after her for a second, but then in the next you felt two strong arms wrap around you from behind, his face burrying itself in the crock of your neck

for a long time, he remained silent, before he spoke again. "Sorry. I'm so sorry you had to deal with that for so long."

you were perplexed at his words, but quickly hugged him back, silently thanking him for staying by your side

Alhaitham

To most people, Alhaitham comes off as a cold and calculated person without any emotions

most people will be surprised when they find out that he was indeed in a committed relationship

and they were even more surprised when they find out how sweet, loving and expressive you are

most would think that he would want a partner similar to him, closed off and not all that social. But you are the exact opposite to that

Not that Alhaitham was paying any mind to the opinions of others about him and his love life in the first place

To you, Alhaitham was the most ideal partner you could have hoped for

he was caring, attentive towards you, listened to you even if he didn't give that impression

his attention was always on you, you were in his thoughts when not with him. Just completely head over heels for you

However, he would not know about the strained relationship with your parents. He knew you weren't in much contact with them, and that's all he really needed or wanted to know. He never bothered you about it

But then, one day, you asked him if he wanted to meet your parents. You seemed unsure about the proposal, but in the end, he agreed to it nevertheless

the days before the event, you became a nervous mess. Alhaitham had no idea what was going on, but he tried to be there for you and support you

he did ask if you wanted to talk to him about anything, but you declined and he didn't push you anymore after that

then, the evening finally arrived where you were meeting up with your family at a local restaurant

when you arrived, your partents and sister were already there, waiting on the two of you. your mother spotted you first, waving to grab your attention

you then went over to sit with them

Introductions were a bit awkward at first, but after a few minutes, things seemed to settle down a bit as your parents engaged in conversation with you, trying to catch up on things

However, it quickly became clear to Alhaitham that your sister was always trying to upstage you with absolutely anything. You got a good job? Well, she got an even better one. You got paid so and so much? Well, wouldn't you look at that, her numbers were even higher than yours

at first, you tried to ignore it, but as always, your parents quickly began ignoring you again, instead congratulating your sister on how good she was doing for herself. It dampened your mood quite a bit, but you still wanted to give this a chance

that was, until your sister said something very specific. "Yeah. The only thing missing to top it all of would be an amazing boyfriend now. Say, Alhaitham. Why don't you dump my sibling and get with me instead?" She even winked at him after saying this

Immediately, your parents agreed to her proposal, looking expectantly at Alhaitham

said man only took a quick glance at everyone at the table, before throwing some money on the table, grabbing your hand and standing up, heading for the exit

"I listened to you disrespecting my partner for long enough. And you wonder why they hold no contact with you anymore. Really, I'm glad they got out of your grasp."

With that, you both left the restaurant. None of you spoke a word until you got to Alhaitham's house again, where he immediately pulled you into his arms as soon as you were inside

so for a while, you just stood there in his embrace while he silently reassured you that you had nothing to worry about

you were the only one to him and he would spend his entire life proving this to you if necessary..

[yestrday]

What if academy!darling thinks that the yandere's behavior is cute, and she indulges it, but she doesn't reciprocate; like " awwww you're so obssesed with me, doing everything for me, you're adorable" but she isn't in love and won't ever give a chance to them

... absolutely pissed off. you think you can trying playing around with his heart? you had him fooled at first, making him think that you actually liked him, but the more he spent time with you the more he could see that he was nothing but a plaything to you. vixens like you have no right to stand on equal grounds with him. he'll make you regret this. he thinks you'll look better crying and screaming and begging for him to let you go, rather than playing coy.

SCARAMOUCHE, zhongli, ayato, cyno

heartbroken. he thought all your indulgences meant that you liked him back, but you were just toying with him all this time? his sanity deteriorates when it sinks in that not once have you ever taken him seriously. he doesn't want to hurt you, he really doesn't, but what choice does he have? he can't imagine a life without you, so he has to take drastic measures to make you realize that he's serious. dead serious.

KAZUHA, thoma, ITTO, DILUC, xiao

he does not take a hint at all. actually, it'd be more accurate to say that he's absolutely turned on by this sort of behavior from you. giving him a sip of the forbidden nectar before leaving him out to dry... that is so fucking hot. it makes him like you even more. of course, you can't actually reject him. he likes playing this game between the two of you, but he's confident that he can win you over in the end. or, i don't know, just kidnap you. he'll cross that bridge when he gets there.

CHILDE

amused. he's known from the beginning that you've never actually looked at him like that, but he continued to pursue you just to silently laugh as you continue to act like you're the predator. you're so silly! he's lulling you into a false sense of security, making you think you actually have a choice when you never had. don't worry, he'll take goo~od care of you once he takes you for himself. he'll savor the shocked and defeated expression you'll wear when you realize that he's had the upper hand all along...

ALBEDO, XINGQIU, baizhu, TIGHNARI, kaeya, ALHAITHAM, venti, aether, AYATO

disappointed in you. love is supposed to be taken seriously, yet you treat it like a game? this course of action may or may not decrease their affection for you. some of them will overanalyze and think that maybe some troubling past has you acting so capriciously. the less delusional ones will see you for what you are— an asshole. nevertheless, you won't get away with this. you don't toy with a yandere's feelings and assume that there's no consequences, after all. (you'll most likely end up dead)

thoma, cyno, xiao, KAVEH, chongyun, GOROU

you've scared them off! they feel utterly humiliated, and they can't blame you. after all, why would you wanna be with them anyway? he's crying in his room 24/7 or sulking about it. whenever he sees you, he just runs away to the opposite direction. you haunt his mind, even as he tries to forget about you. even when you're not mocking him to his face, you're still playing with his mind... he's gotten crazier, and maybe that's not a good thing for you. (you'll also most likely end up dead)

MIKA, razor, BENNETT, KAVEH, gorou

[ephemeral--dreams]

Ideal types in partners - Alhaitham, Scaramouche, Ningguang, Ayato

☆ ☾ ☆ ──────────────────

Alhaitham

Ideally, someone more outwardly emotional and expressive than he is. He needs someone to balance his more reserved nature - as well as someone who can read him well enough to not get scared off by it. He can be a bit too blunt with things. Fights may arise out of this if you can't handle that part of him, so it's better if you're sensitive but not Too sensitive.

Intelligence is important as well. Alhaitham needs to be able to have complex conversations with his partner. You'll need to be able to keep up with him when he talks about his interests and knowledge. Will probably be overly fond of having debates with you over academic matters.

Overall, someone who has enough empathy to understand him and perhaps bring his own emotions out more. He's a complicated person! Understand that about him and everything should work out.

Scaramouche

He needs someone with the patience of a saint. You're going to have to deal with a lot of things. Mood swings, teasing, and the fact that he's often harsh (even when he may not mean to be). He can be difficult. His partner must be able to accept all of this easily, without blowing up at every little thing.

I think he would do well with someone affectionate. He's spent many years feeling abandoned and distancing himself from others. To have someone who is very openly loving toward him would be a welcome change, and would certainly help him settle him as a person. He may say it's annoying if you're clingy, but he's just as clingy himself. :)

You must be able to read between the lines with him - he doesn't often say what he truly feels or thinks outright. He's often an actions over words sort of person. He may not say he loves you so straightforwardly, but you can see it in how he treats you so long as you pay attention.

Ningguang

Someone who can challenge her. Ningguang, after all, thrives on such things. She is surrounded by people who admire and revere her, people who take her word for gospel, who hang on each bit of information or order she gives. What will make you stand out is that you don't do that. Question her, bicker with her, show that you have a mind and will of your own. She'd love to banter with you.

She doesn't have much need for wasting her riches on herself, but expect to be showered in expensive gifts. Ningguang would like someone she can spoil. Accept what she gives you. She won't take no for an answer when it comes to this.

Know that she will often be busy. You will need to have enough independence to spend a lot of time without her. Don't expect her to drop her work for you, and don't be too needy. She is yours, but she is also Liyue's. If you aren't the sort who can accept this, things wouldn't work out.

Ayato

Much like Ningguang, he's often extremely busy. And, again, you'll need to be able to get along well enough on your own when he is.

He needs a partner who is good with people. You'll have to go to events with him, talk to others of high social standing. Maintain a good public image and get along well with others. Have good manners and be polite. And, most importantly - be intelligent enough to tell when someone doesn't have Ayato's best interests in mind, and refrain from saying anything to them that might come back to bite you. To that end, someone who can defend themselves would be ideal as well, considering how many people go after him, and may go after you…

It is, of course, expected that you'll be completely devoted to him in every way. Love is nothing without loyalty, in his eyes.

Being the leader that he is can be rough. If you're able to easily comfort him after a long day, it would be appreciated. Ayato takes care of many things, including you. Take care of him in return.

[teaberrii]

Chapter Eleven: The Way You Make Me Feel

Alhaitham has the looks and the smarts. He will also be the stand-in CEO for his grandfather's company for a year.

But, he's been mysteriously cursed to turn into a cat every night since his eighteenth birthday… until he meets you, an employee at his grandfather's company, who rescues him as a cat and changes him back with one kiss.

Alhaitham/You

Notes:

Cross-posted on AO3

Female reader

Chapter index at the end of chapter one

“This is a pleasant surprise,” your mother says, smiling.

“What are you doing here?” you ask.

Your mother looks at the small group of women around her age a short distance away. “We decided to do something different today.”

You recognize them from one of the local community clubs your mother joined last year. She had casually introduced you before because one of them has a son around the same age as you. You knew of her motives, but you played along as you didn’t want to be rude.

“Now, what are you two doing here?” your mother asks, turning back. “An early date?”

Before you and Alhaitham can say anything, one of the aunties says your name as if surprised. She looks you up and down. “My, it’s only been a year since we last saw you, but you’ve grown!”

“Have I?” you laugh. “Maybe it’s all the milk I’ve been drinking.”

Then, one of them looks at Alhaitham. “Oh! What a handsome young man!"

"Is he your boyfriend, dear?”

You and Alhaitham look at each other. You also notice the curious look of your mother. Well, you’ve made it official to everyone back at the hospital. Why should you say anything different now?

"Alhaitham?" A woman pushes her way to the front, and Alhaitham looks just as surprised to see her as she does him. But, then, the woman looks at you. "Is it true? Are you dating him?"

You raise a brow. What’s with the attitude?

“Do you know him?” your mother asks.

The woman crosses her arms. “He was my daughter’s fiancé.”

Fiancé?! You look at Alhaitham, whose expression remains calm but has a seriousness you’ve never seen before.

"F-fiancé?" one of the women gasps. "Oh, honey, don't tell me this was the man who left your poor daughter in tears!"

Of course, you have no idea what is going on. However, regardless of what happened, you’re a little amazed at how calm Alhaitham is, especially after a comment like that. Or should you be scared?

The woman looks at you. “It’s not good to get involved with this man, dear. You’ll end up with a broken heart!”

“We were unhappy."

Everyone turns to Alhaitham.

“She was happy until you ended things with her!” the woman fires back, a little too emotionally.

“No,” Alhaitham says sternly. “We ended things so they wouldn’t get worse.”

“You—”

Whatever happened, you know that violence is not the answer. When the woman steps toward him, she looks like she wants to hit him. However, your mother puts a hand in front of her.

“This sounds like a personal affair,” she says to her. “Let’s not cause a scene.”

The woman glares at your mother. "Your daughter is dating a man who hurt my daughter. I'm helping you so she won't endure what he put her through!"

“My daughter’s business is my business,” your mother says. “Not yours.”

With one last huff, the woman spins on her heel and walks away.

“...Well, this is awkward,” one of the others says. “Should we let her be?”

A woman looks at Alhaitham. “Young man… is it true about what she said? We… did hear that her daughter was engaged. She was going to show him off, but the engagement was called off.”

The last thing Alhaitham wants to do is gossip about his past with people that have nothing to do with it. However, leaving it be would cause more misunderstandings. He's not hiding anything. He didn’t do anything wrong. Yet, if he stays quiet, things might escalate out of control. Alhaitham can care less what the aunties think, but he cares about what you think. He also cares about what your mother thinks.

“With all due respect, auntie,” you say, and the women look at you. “That’s his business.”

“...Well, I suppose you’re right.”

Once the women walk away, your mother turns to Alhaitham. “As an outsider, I have no interest in your past affairs. But”—she looks at you—“as you are involved with my daughter, I want to know the kind of people she’s with. You do understand what I’m saying, right?”

Alhaitham nods. “I do.” He takes a short breath. “It’s true that her daughter and I were engaged. I was one the who broke it off.”

“...What happened?” you ask.

“...In short, I didn’t love her,” Alhaitham says.

“Yet the two of you went as far as to get engaged,” your mother says.

“We were young,” Alhaitham admits. “We didn’t really know each other. Not at the level that would make a lasting relationship work.”

You can understand where he's coming from as you've been there yourself. It's all fun and games, like going to the movies, shopping, or hanging out at someone's house in the beginning. But, when it comes to the bigger, serious, "adult" things, that's when you truly get a feel for who this person is and whether this relationship would really work.

“I just made tenure when she brought up marriage,” Alhaitham continues. “Our relationship was also still in its early stages. It was far too soon, and I wanted to focus on work.” A short pause. “I also didn’t want to start a family, and that caused a rift between us.”

“Then, what made you propose?” you ask.

"Her mother was aware of our problems. So, she came to see me. She told me how after getting married, everything would change. We would be more loving towards each other. She told me about her experience with her husband when he proposed."

"Oh boy…" your mother sighs. "Don't tell me that was how she convinced you?"

“...I was inexperienced." He sighs. "I went with her mother's advice, thinking that maybe things would change with something more tangible as proof of love."

You're getting shivers just from thinking of the consequences if something more... dramatic were to happen if Alhaitham really tied the knot. Money. Property. You can't help but think that the mother might have some ulterior motive if she wanted her daughter to get married to Alhaitham so soon.

“And this girl accepted?" your mother asks. "I don’t expect an answer… but it sounds strange that she would accept a proposal if she felt something was wrong.”

"...There was hesitation from both of us. Even after she accepted, there was something that felt uncomfortable. I… wish I could put it into words, but I can't."

You never thought Alhaitham would have a past relationship like this. Then again, you’ve never really thought about Alhaitham’s past relationships until now. You've always thought he would have stable, loving relationships that just didn’t work out. The last thing you’re expecting is a broken engagement.

“...But I finally went to talk to her."

“...I’m sorry,” Alhaitham said quietly. “I can't do this.”

“Are you scared to admit it, Haitham?” she asked. “You just… you don’t love me. That’s it. Plain and simple.”

The strange thing was that Alhaitham thought he did. The spark was there in the beginning. The attraction was there in the beginning. So, where did it go wrong?

Was that why he was so absorbed in this work? Yes, he loved what he did. But was it also because he didn’t want to face the ugly truth? He didn’t love her. Now that he heard those words out loud, it was like a breath of fresh air.

"Truth is, I already knew," she continued quietly. "We weren't the people when we first started anymore. I thought you would change... I kept waiting for you to change, but you never did."

She took off her ring and put it on the table.

“...You know what’s annoying?” she asked, looking at him, and he saw the pain in her eyes. “I can’t bring myself to hate you.” Then, a wry smile. “You should’ve just cheated.”

“...Despite the mess, I must applaud you for focusing on your career at a young age,” your mother says. “Young people nowadays are too easily swayed by others.”

“Mom,” you say. “You’re generalizing again.”

"I hope that clears things up," he says.

Your mother smiles at him. “Well, you didn’t do anything criminal.”

You gently nudge him. “Consider yourself lucky.”

“Now… after that large detour… the two of you still haven’t answered my question yet,” your mother says. “Are you two on a date?”

The little smile and look you and Alhaitham give each other tells her everything she needs to know.

“Well,” your mother says with a small smile, “I expect my daughter to be back at a reasonable time.

Alhaitham chuckles. “Of course.”

“Wait… since when did I have a curfew?” you joke.

Your mother gives you a look. “I don’t want you to get too carried away.”

“Alright, I understand.” Then, you sigh a little dramatically. “I’ll be back at a reasonable time.”

“...It sounds like you don’t want to be.”

You gently elbow Alhaitham, and your mom laughs.

Once your mom leaves, you turn to Alhaitham and ask, “If you don’t mind my asking… how many past relationships did you have?”

“One.”

“Just one?”

“Is that surprising?”

“I just thought you would’ve had a few relationships. And… I remember you said you even went to a matchmaking party.”

A short chuckle. "My grandfather knew someone running the event and insisted I try it."

The two of you walk side-by-side along the path when you say, "I guess nothing worked out."

“...It was an interesting experience, to say the least. Not one that I would try again.”

You nudge him. “I bet you were a hit.”

"It wouldn't matter because I wasn't interested in anyone." Your hand brushes against his, and he seizes the opportunity. Alhaitham takes your hand and slides it into his pocket just as a chilly breeze blows by. Even after it passes, he's still holding your hand. He leans slightly closer. "...I never met someone I wanted to pursue so badly… until now."

Your heart almost stops.

"Did, um, did your ex know about your curse?" you ask.

“I told her, but she didn’t believe me. But, by then, our relationship was beyond saving.”

You can hear your heart in your ears as you and Alhaitham continue the journey down the concrete path. How long is he going to hold your hand? But maybe the better question is: how long will you let him hold your hand?

◆◆◆

Childe has a hand on the wheel but has no idea where he's going. He'd lied to his parents that he was busy with errands. He'd rather not subject himself to snarky conversations from relatives who sang high praises for their kids but none for him.

It's not like Childe wants praise, though. But respect, at least even from his parents.

“...That’s a surprise you’d want me to come,” Childe said over the phone. “I thought you’d forgotten that you even have a son.”

“Childe,” his mother said sternly. “You know that’s not true.”

“I’m busy that day.”

“With what? Work?”

“And if I said yes?”

His mother sighed. “I don’t understand how you could be busy with work.”

“What is that supposed to mean?”

“...Nothing. Forget I said anything. I don’t want to fight with you again.”

Childe didn’t bother to say goodbye.

His mother works in finance, and his father is a doctor. While Childe initially thought they didn't understand what he did for a living, he later realized that was not true. Rather, his parents look down on people in the entertainment industry. It's obvious in their attitude, but they stopped trying to get him to switch fields as the job still brings in money. However, they have no idea how it works and still thinks those working in the industry are "failures in the traditional field."

Childe still remembers the day he ran to your house and spent the night with you and your siblings. The fight between him and his parents got so bad that he didn’t want to spend another minute in the house.

The car slowly comes to a stop at a red light, and Childe sighs loudly. Is this how it's going to be… forever?

As Childe casually glances to the side, someone immediately catches his eye. Childe quickly moves into the next lane and honks once to get the girl’s attention.

Childe rolls down his window and smiles. “Hi, Lulu.”

“You got a car?”

“What are you talking about? I’ve always had a car.” He gestures for her to get in.

Lumine narrows her eyes. “Are you sure it’s safe?”

“Trust me, Lulu. With you in the car, I’ll be extra safe.”

Once Lumine gets in, Childe rolls up the window and drives off.

“You’ve always had a car… but you don’t drive to work?” Lumine asks. Then, she smiles. “Ooh, don’t tell me it was because you wanted to get with Sis.”

“If I wanted to get with her, I would come to pick her up every day.”

“...Fine. Good point.”

“Were you heading home?”

“Yeah. I was visiting Aether today.”

“Oh? How’s the brother doing?”

Lumine smiles. “He’ll be discharged by the end of the week.”

“Congrats. Bet the kid’s happy.”

When Childe merges onto the highway, Lumine looks at him. “Um… I thought you were going to take me home.”

“Did I say that?”

Lumine frowns. “If this was anyone else, I’d be worried.”

“But since it’s me… you’re excited, right?”

Lumine scoffs. “No, I’m even more worried.”

“You sure don’t look like it.”

"Well, let me call Sis right now, then." When Lumine takes out her phone, Childe grabs her hand, startling her. She immediately looks at him, and he glances at her. "What are you doing?"

“...Could you keep me company tonight?”

Lumine blinks once. Twice. Her? Keep him company? Tonight? Surely he isn’t talking about the whole night, right?

Childe looks at her again. “Do I have something on my face? Why do you keep staring at me?"

“W-well, why me?” Should she also ask why he’s still holding her hand?

“Because I enjoy being with people. I thought it was obvious.”

Whatever fluttery feeling she had has just vanished. Now, she’s giving him a deadpan look. “Do you also enjoy holding hands with other people?”

Childe gives her a slight, mischievous smile. “Nah. That’s only with you.”

Lumine almost wants to throw him out the window.

◆◆◆

You and Alhaitham are back at your place as that ex-fiancé business dragged your walk out longer than you thought. When you and Alhaitham leave the lakeside, you have only an hour to spare before his fluffy transformation. So, any dinner plans have to be put on hold.

You’re leaning against your counter, drinking water, when you see the bathroom door open. However, the last thing you’re expecting to see is Alhaitham wearing nothing but black pants. Yet, that’s not what surprises you.

Why is he not a cat?

You put your cup on the counter just as Alhaitham says, “This has never happened before.”

“You mean… your transformation has never been late?”

Alhaitham looks at the clock. “No. Never.”

You know this is not the time, but your eyes start to wander. From his lean biceps to his abs, you stop before it gets too obvious. However, when you meet his gaze, you know it's too late. He knows you were looking but doesn't seem affected in the slightest.

“Well, um, did we do something different this time?”

“...We almost kissed,” he says, approaching you.

The calm way he says it makes your mind go blank.

"...But we didn't," you say.

Then, a silence settles in, but it teems with unspoken messages.

When he gently touches your cheek, you continue holding his stare. Your hand is on his shoulder and slowly makes its way to the back of his neck. You hear his breathing quicken at your touch. Do you have that big of an effect on him?

By now, Alhaitham has leaned closer to you, his lips close to yours. One of his hands is on the counter; his forehead is against yours when he quietly says your name. Your other hand grips the counter tightly as if letting go means that there would be no going back.

However, when you feel his soft lips brush against yours for the first time, you know you need more.

When you gently press your lips against his, Alhaitham's tongue grazes against your lower lip, and you instantly welcome him into the warmth of your mouth. One taste. That's all it takes to realize you'll never get enough of this man. His hand caresses the small of your back, amplifying the wild tremors along your nerves.

You never thought you'd be pressed against Alhaitham, his hand carding through your hair as you kiss each other again… again… and again... yet his kiss is almost deeper and harder than the next. It's as if he found something and needed more. You're clinging to him, using him as an anchor to steady yourself in a world that spirals into beautiful, desirable chaos.

No one has ever kissed you like this before. Reckon, you've only kissed one other person, one that left you more empty than loved. Yet, Alhaitham's kisses draw something out of you, unleashing a desire you've never known, a feeling you wouldn't mind getting addicted to.

Reality hits when you break apart for much-needed air.

Looking at each other makes you want to lean in again. However, Alhaitham is faster. Yet, what you thought was another kiss is a low whisper in your ear.

“...It was so much better than I imagined.”

Poof.

You're still recovering from that statement when you slowly look down. Kitty Alhaitham slowly makes his way out of the pants lying on the floor. He gives his head a quick shake just as you crouch. Then, he stands on his hind legs and puts his front paws on your knees. He stares at you, and you stare back. Then, he leans closer and happens to look down. You're wearing a loose tank top, and when he sees the space between your breasts, he immediately uses his paws to cover his eyes.

“...Don’t tell me you’re getting shy after that?”

You slowly remove his paws, and he looks up at you.

"I wonder if this will affect your kitty transformation now."

Alhaitham meows softly and puts his head on your legs, his tail swishing upwards. You scratch his head.

“...I’m going to take a shower.”

As you're in the shower, Alhaitham takes a little tour of your counter, looking through some of the pictures and miniatures you have. When he comes across a photo of you, your siblings, and Childe, he slightly smiles at how cute you look in a school uniform. What kind of student were you? Definitely a studious one. Then, he slightly narrows his eyes at Childe and puts his paw on Childe's face just as you come out.

“Haitham? What are you doing?”

Alhaitham looks over his shoulder, and the frame falls with a soft thud on the counter. You walk over and pick him up.

“Are you being naughty?”

Him? Naughty? Never.

His wide, innocent eyes as he lies in your arms like a newborn baby have you convinced. Just as you put the frame upright, Alhaitham stretches and his paw brushes against your breast. You immediately look down, and he freezes.

Wait. That was an accident.

Alhaitham meows and looks from you to his paw, slowly lowering it while keeping his innocent stare on you.

“I’ll pretend that never happened,” you say. Then, you rub his fluffy tummy. “But don’t think I’ll overlook it the second time.”

Alhaitham meows, and you gently tap his little nose.

Just then, your phone dings with a message as you put him down on the counter.

Collei: I’m so happy you’re coming!

You texted Collei earlier, telling her you're attending the school reunion. You're still looking at the message when you hear a soft meow beside you.

Alhaitham is beside you. While he’s not looking at your phone, you can tell what’s on his mind.

“It’s an old friend,” you say. “Her name’s Collei.”

Alhaitham tilts his head slightly.

“I told her I was coming to the school reunion.”

School reunion? This gets Alhaitham curious. Then, he remembers the photo with you in your school uniform he saw earlier and subtly smiles.

“What are you thinking about, Catman?”

Alhaitham takes one step and presses his nose to yours. You feel a soft lick, and you chuckle.

“I wonder what will happen if I kiss you now.”

Alhaitham cleans his face with a paw while you smile mischievously.

"But, I kinda like you more in cat form."

Is that a little pout? Alhaitham must know he's cute, but you already imagine him saying he could please you more in his human form.

Whoa.

You stop your thoughts from going any further.

Alhaitham gently bonks his head against yours, and you give him a quick scratch.

That's when you hear your phone buzz again. But this time, it's a message and a photo, something you definitely aren't expecting. The photo is of Childe and Lumine, and he's the one taking the selfie. Both of them are doing finger hearts.

Hang on. Why is Childe with your sister?

You finally read the message that came with it.

Childe: We’re in the area! Could we drop by?

Chapter Twelve

Tag list: @lxry-chxn @suoshiii @seirenspinel @lordbugs @sakiimeo @ashtree-and-the-cats @ceylestia @forsh4dow @deathkat657 @kalpie @elernity @sentieence @chichibleeps @sunsethw4 @hjjks @tanspostsblog @nqctre @just-simping-over-genshin @uchihaeirin @vynbin @ayanokomu @dksfl920 @alatus2716 @itztaki @thetwinkims @imkaaayy

[jenniferchaulam]

/adding on to the previous post, short story idea (draft plot only, anws)

There is no violence, but depictions of uncomfortable stuffs so. I'd just wanted to censor this.

tags: Alhaitham, Kaveh, Wanderer has PTSD BUT I dont know if my depictions of PTSD is accurrate, please tell me if im just writing stereotypes, mentions of anesthesia awareness/surgery with no anesthesia, Wanderer has a mechanical heart, Modern-ish AU, just regular sumeru gang bonding, OOC? maybe? i did it best i could-

The world was in complete darkness. Machinery beeping. Be-beep. Be-beep. Be-beep. Lights buzzing. People mumbling incomprehensible things. Metals clanking. The smell felt sterile and clean. It felt like a thousand ants on his body.

Wanderer felt awake, but his body was not. As if a sleep paralysis demon was pressing his entire body, and he could not move an inch.

A sharp piercing pain came right as his chest. The room stench of fresh organs. The thousands of ants moved as if he was their cave. He tried to scream, to twitch, to shook off whatever was slicing him-

He jerked awake in cold sweat.

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

He can barely hold himself together as he trembly walks out his room. These nightmares are nothing new, but Wanderer can never get over them. Maybe a cup of tea will help.

"It's never happening again. Pull yourself together", he told himself. He steadies his hand, which was shaking uncontrollably. "I can not be weak".

He felt his mechanical heart pulsing through his entire body, and it made his breath slow and heavy. Nahida went to help the children's hospital, but if she was here she would have immediately notice him limping out the bunk bed the moment he was awake. Personally, Wanderer felt it is utterly embarrasing, and he would rather have a million nightmare than to sit in therapy with her at midnight.

That said, he was not the only one in this flat.

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

Kaveh needed a place to stay and finish his deadline, since his roommate thinks he's "Too noisy" for his liking. When Nahida asked if Wanderer agrees, he said he has no opinion on who she would want to host in her house. Now everytime Kaveh has to finish a deadline, he just brings Mehrak over to the flat next door, along with a bit of coffee.

So anyways, Kaveh got startled by Wanderer's very loud scream and is currently very concerned.

Wanderer groans when he got to the living room and saw a messy table with a sleep-deprived blond man.

"Are you alright, Hat Guy?", Kaveh asked without looking off his table.

No response. Wanderer is still trembling from the shock and barely wants to answer. He went straight to the cupboard for tea.

"I heard you scream, and I have to say it startled me as well. I bet Al Haitham next door could hea-"

"Wait-"

Wanderer pause. The overwhelming dread that he did not woke up quietly.

"What did you say?", he asked slowly.

Kaveh lift his eyes off his work. Hat Guy's voice sounded trembly, and he notice that the short guy is full of sweat. Like he was struggling to stand. He threw a death stare towards Kaveh.

"Ah, I'm sure its nothing". Kaveh decides its best not to worry him. "It's okay, I won't tell anyone about this either, if you're uncomfortable."

Wanderer let out a huff. At least this blondie is too friendly to tell, and this secret will be safe. He went back to looking for a mug for his tea.

A sharp stinging flashback hit when he reached out for the mug. The flickering tick of the water boiler. Be-beep. Be-beep. Be-beep.

"No, this isn't- I have used this many times-"

His chests tightens. He can't breathe. He can not breathe. A sharp knife pierce through his body. Ants. So many ants crawling. He let out a small, sharp scream. His arm and chest felt like it was being broken to pieces, just like the mug that fell of his grip.

"Ha-- Gu--?"

Sounds turned into a single ringing noise. Then it felt like constant beeping of machinery. He can hear the buzzing of the lights. Many hands were on top of him touching him in different places, and he can't move. Everything stings.

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

"Hey, Hat Guy! Oh thank archons you opened your eyes", said Kaveh while shaking him awake.

The short guy is shivering as if this room is freezing despite being in Sumeru, and his breathing is irregular. His shirt went from soaking to dripping with sweat.

"You should continue your work. I can take it from here", said another familiar male voice in green.

"Who invited you?", Wanderer scoffed at who is obviously Alhaitham.

"Yea, I thought you had earmuffs you can use to ignore everyone!", Kaveh followed up, "Get out off here!"

"And I thought your deadline was today, in 9 hours. Go back to work. It was too noisy anyways. Hat Guy screamed, and broke a mug, then scream again. Even the best earmuffs can't block those. If this happens again I can't get back to sleep."

Wanderer let out a groan. It felt like everyone knows he has a problem. That said, just like Kaveh describe, Alhaitham's attitude is similar to him. He bets this Scribe guy won't come if he didn't disturb him. This guy only cared for what benefits him.

"We have weighted blankets in our flat if you think this is PTSD", Alhaitham said while adjusting Wanderer's position. But Wanderer just kicks him instead.

"We do??????? How come I not know?"

"I have weighted blankets at MY flat if you think this is PTSD."

"I don't have PTSD", Wanderer said, while his entire body shivers uncontrollably, just to betray his words. He turned himself trying to reach the counter but with zero grip he slipped back onto the ground.

"Don't try to stand up quickly. I'm not an Amurta student, but-"

"But what, big H? What's stopping me to just stand up right now?"

Wanderer bounced himself up.

Only to quickly turn dizzy.

He hold himself at the counter-

Alhaitham ignored him struggling to stand.

"You can just follow my lead. Breathe in", he said.

"Not in a million years." Wanderer just stayed on the floor. Its not worth it if he stood up and the water boiler reminds him of anything. He turns his back against it.

"Suit yourself"

Alhaitham left Hat Guy where he was, and starts sweeping off the broken pieces of the mug. He continue to brew the tea that was left already on the counter.

The bitter smell of tea... Wanderer relaxes himself. Tiredness from lack of sleep creeps up to him, and the smell drifted him into closing his eyes.

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

Kaveh gets to continue his project, in peace. Once Hat Guy went back to sleep Alhaitham just sorta left him there. He did went and get some weighted blankets.

"Kaveh. Is there anything you know and haven't told me?",he asked while leaving the folded blankets right on the floor.

"No. You saw everything, really. He looked like he saw a ghost, yelled and jerked himself awake. I am really worried for him though."

The Scribe nods and left the flat, and Kaveh finally finished and sent his project. He went to take a peak at Hat Guy.

He was kinda left on hard cold tiles, but his face looked peaceful. Kaveh decided he won't leave him like this, and started carrying the shortie back to his bed. There was a bunk bed, so he assumes Hat Guy sleeps on the one with his giant Inazuman style head disk. He pours hot tea into a thermos, and left it next to his bed, with a note: "Hot tea - K"

Finally, Kaveh took the weighted blankets left on the floor.

When he got back however, Hat Guy was wide awake. He was panting. Hands covering his mouth and nose, preventing himself from screaming. He quickly unplugged the ticking clock and threw it away. It made a loud bang. On the side of Alhaitham's room.

"Oh, archons, Hat Guy! Are you alright?"

Hat Guy stared at Kaveh, wide-eye and full of tears.

"Here. I made tea. And some weighted blankets. I actually have no idea how these work. Just cover them over, I think."

Wanderer just did as he was told.

"Hey, don't you usually sleep with the Dendro Archon? Maybe it will be better if you just come over my flat and sleep with m-"

"You think your tiny bed can hold two people?", Alhaitham said, startling the two, "but, you do have a point. Hat Guy, if you want I can give you a sleeping rug in my flat."

He agrees.

For some reason. Just this once, three reminders is too many to bear. He wants to sleep in peace.

/////////////////////////

pt2 coming? i still have ideas i just cant write them-