#i'm nervously rambling into the void

[sazzujazzu]

Hello, as the days count down and the Bad Batch finale draws closer, may I show to the fine folks of tumblr my first Star Wars OC in 20 years, created thanks to this show? 😃

Too bad, I'm showing them anyway 😊 somberly chilling while listening to their bestie talk.

Please excuse the poor background (I got lazy) and half-finished Tech (I got sad)

there's, uh, a big mess of words under the image because I wanted to put into words the importance this show has for me, and I am bad at doing so.

I want to get some thoughts off my chest, because I have no one in my day-to-day life who cares about the animated Star Wars shows, and especially the Bad Batch. (well, other than my mom, but I don't want to bore her with my rambling too much. she already banned star wars from me once, i won't let that happen again lol)

I can't stop thinking how much I don't want Bad Batch to end.

This show has been so dear to me. I can't remember the last time I've loved something this much.

Before the second season started, I had an artistic block that had lasted way too long. Anything I drew or wrote, mostly turned out a horrible mess after staring at a blank page for hours and hours, if I ever managed to create anything at all. For someone who tends to draw whenever their hands aren't otherwise busy (aka all the damn time), such a block weighed down on my mental health.

Well, then season two happened, and full-on gave me back my love for Star Wars, a love that had somewhat gone out over the last few years. Then, Plan 99 happened, and broke me because again my favorite character "died" (I'm in team Tech lives until I draw my last breath or until proven correct. That chocolate-eyed cutie-pie is alive nothing will convince me otherwise). Pretty much after finishing the episode and staring at a wall for another 30 minutes, I said "nope" and began writing.

I wrote for hours. I believe it's been well over a decade since I last wrote fanfiction, but here I was, creating a Star Wars oc, something I'd last done as a ten-year-old. And now, roughly a year later, I think I've written over a hundred pages of (very self-indulgent) fanfiction with the Batch, and with my oc that I've come to love.

And drawing, oh boy, have I been drawing!

(... Sure, I've mostly been drawing Tech, over and over again, to a point I once actually considered lying and saying "yeah that's my boyfriend haha!" to a man at my job last summer, when asked who it was that I was drawing for maybe fifth day in a row 😂 likely would've been a more acceptable excuse for someone my age. But, I mean... I just really love drawing him, not only because he is my favorite character of maybe all time, but because he is just so fun to draw! And most of all, at least I draw again!)

And it is all thanks to this wonderful show about a bunch of defective and effective copy-paste boys and their sister.

It's probably something many say, but I've always felt like a bit of an outsider. I've felt like I have no place; when I was a kid, my interests were very different from the other kids of [gender assigned at birth], and trying to play with them while inserting my own interests into the games, often didn't go so well. I was... kind of an odd child (although now, older and questionably wiser, knowing that I might actually be autistic, many things make more sense now. me kind of discovering this about myself is also partially thanks to Bad Batch)

Also, growing up trans/non-binary, while not even knowing what that is or having a word for it, didn't really do much to help with the feeling of "I'm different and an outsider because of it". Perhaps it was one more reason I fell in love with Clone Force 99, because I could see some of myself in them. Being different from the "regs".

I love this show, and these fictional people have become my family, and I am not ready to say goodbye to them.

Alright, weird pile of thoughts over. In case someone read all this, uh... thanks 😊

[clanwarrior-tumbly]

So it seems like your requests are open? Cool! I have an idea for COTL! Lamb! Reader is Narinder's chosen vessel rather than the Lamb, and they're EXHAUSTED after everything that's happened. So when Narinder summons them, they say "what if I say "no?"" Narinder just goes, "what?" And they respond "listen, I just died, watched my entire race die, and have been running for my entire life. Can I at least have a break before I get thrown into this?" I just thought it would be funny XD

"Come closer. Fear not, for though you are already dead....I still have need of you."

Standing silently in the white void, you gazed up at the giant feline bishop--a god chained as you, a sacrificial lamb, were now. His arms were stripped to the bone, iron clasps keeping him shackled to the ground and preventing him from freely moving them around too much.

Yet despite him being imprisoned like some caged beast...he seemed no-less revering, and you couldn't help but admire him..

Even if he is the reason you were sent to your death.

Lambs all over the Old Faith were murdered in cold blood, their children snatched and butchered and their villages sieged by the fanatics of the five ruling Bishops. You had been on the run for weeks, without knowing why exactly they targeted your kind specifically.

What did such peaceful wool-covered creatures ever do to deserve this sort of horrible fate?

Only after they have captured you did you realize you were the last living lamb...and that the Bishops put all the others to the blade for one reason:

A prophecy.

A prophecy that spoke of their banished brother--the "One Who Waits"--being freed from his chains by a lamb who'd serve as his vessel and destroy the ways of the Old Faith from the inside out.

For that, the Bishops left none alive in hopes of stopping the prophecy from ever taking place, wanting to ensure the "heretic" stayed in captivity forever.

However after your execution, their plan seemed to have gone awry...considering you, a lamb, stood before the very person they desperately didn't want you to see.

"Those foolish Bishops thought they could keep you from me in death, but instead they sent you straight to me!" Narinder boasted. "I will give you life again, but at a price."

You nervously gulped. "And..what would that be?"

"All I ask is for you to start a cult in my name. Do we have a deal?"

".....what if..I said no?"

"....what?" He narrowed his eyes in confusion, surprised that you didn't readily agree to his offer like other vessels before you. They all jumped at the chance to come back to life..but not you. He began to feel a little insulted.

"Do you take me for a liar, little lamb?" He sneered. "Have you no desire for vengeance against the ones who senselessly destroyed everything you knew and loved? Believe it or not, I can give you that power-"

"I-I absolutely believe you, my lord." You quickly backtracked, kneeling down in respect. "I want that more than anything. It's just...so much has happened all at once. My village burning down, my capture, my death...I haven't known peace until I was sent here. I think..t-taking a small breather first would help me feel better prepared to start a cult in your great name..."

You felt like you rambled a bit too long for his liking, seeing as his stoic expression didn't once waver. Even the smaller cat guardians flanking him hadn't moved an inch, although the one in a white cloak did open his eyes, flashes of concern in them.

Yet Narinder's silence was most discomforting, as you feared that you've angered him and he was going to revoke the offer.

Bowing your head even lower, you squeezed your eyes shut, trembling. "Forgive me, I-I spoke out of turn. I..don't think I'm the right fit to be your vessel-"

However you stopped all movements as you no longer felt the weight of the chains holding you down. And you realized they had disappeared, allowing you to move your arms freely.

Although your neck still ached tremendously...at least the clasp wasn't crushing it anymore.

"No. You are the one I need...for it cannot be anybody else." His voice purred, causing you to look back up at him. This time his gaze seemed softer. "I seldom know what has transpired in the realm of the living..seeing only mere glimpses of certain events. But you've given me better understanding of your tragic circumstances. So I will allow you a brief moment of tranquility to prepare you for your task ahead."

You lightly gasped, smiling as you jumped up into a standing position, hands clasped together in relief. "Oh, thank you so much-!"

"Do not assume I shall always be this charitable." His voice went right back to being condescending. "Take gratitude that I permitted this...and do not ask me for anymore favors henceforth. When you lead a cult, you may not always get "breathers"."

"..I-I understand." You rubbed your neck bashfully. "I appreciate this a lot."

"So I reckon we have a deal? When you're ready, I will guide you on what must be done, and you shall take the Red Crown atop my head to fulfill your mission."

"Very well. I shall gladly serve you and repay the debt I owe."

Narinder blinked, silent for a few long moments, before he grinned wickedly, sharp teeth spreading from ear-to-ear. All three of his eyes seemed to glow brighter.

"Excellent. You understand what must be done and already show such strong devotion to me...you'll be my finest vessel yet."

[darkstar225]

Twice's 10th member is attached to her Mina unnie

A/N: Heyyy, I'm coming back strong lol! Sry for taking so long to post but finally the semester ended :D I hope that my dear friend i__love__ramen that gave me this idea on Wattpad likes it! :)

The request: Also I was wondering if you could do one where we are like specifically attached to one member or like different versions of it, whatever member you want but like we're super clingy and baby with them. I don't think even have a bias I just love them so much, but let's go with hmmm Mina that cutie ❤️

PS: Tysm for everyone that reads what I write, I hope I can bring a smile to your faces every time I post! I'd like to thank whoever sent me this idea 'cause I loved to write it <3

__________________________________________________________

Y/N gazed at the bustling scene before her. It was a whirlwind of activity as the members of TWICE prepared for their latest comeback. As the youngest member of the group, she felt a mixture of excitement and nervousness. Y/N had always admired her fellow members, but there was one person who held a special place in her heart, her fabulous Mina unnie. Mina was the embodiment of grace and elegance. From her enchanting smile to her fluid dance moves, she captivated the maknae from the moment they first met. The girl saw Mina as the older sister she never had, and she cherished every moment spent with her, a voice always laced with eagerness to be a reliable person for Mina.

Y/N - Mina unnie, can I help you with anything?

Mina turned towards her, her eyes sparkling with affection. 

Mina - Of course, sugar! I would love your help.

A broad grin spread across TWICE's honey's face as she followed Mina to the practice room. The two of them spent hours perfecting their choreography, with Mina patiently guiding the youngest through each step. Y/N couldn't help but feel a surge of pride whenever Mina praised her progress. As the days went by, the kid's attachment to Mina grew stronger. She would cling to Mina's side like a koala, always seeking her comforting presence. Whether it was during rehearsals, photoshoots, or even meals, Mina's lovebug, as the members started calling Y/N, would find a way to be close to Mina. Mina found her sunshine's clinginess endearing. She had always wanted to be an older sister, and Y/N's adoration filled a void she never knew existed. Mina reciprocated the girl's affection, always making sure to give her the attention she craved. However, there were moments when Mina had to attend to other responsibilities. The maknae would pout and sulk whenever Mina had to leave her side. She would whine to the other members about how much she missed Mina, earning amused smiles and gentle teasing such as ruffling her hair.

Jihyo - Sweetie, you're so cute, you really do act like Mina's little sister.

Y/N would blush, but deep down, she loved being called Mina's little sister. It made her feel special like she had found a place where she truly belonged. One evening, as the members gathered in their dorm, the maknae's eyes widened with excitement when she spotted Mina entering the room. She immediately jumped up from her seat and rushed towards her, arms outstretched to wrap her favourite unnie in a tight hug.

Y/N - Mina unnie! You're back! 

Mina chuckled, her arms encircling Y/N. 

Mina - I missed you too, darling. How was your day?

Y/N launched into a detailed ramble of her day, sharing every little detail with Mina. The other members watched with amusement, enjoying the bond between the two. As the night wore on, Y/N's eyelids grew heavy. Mina noticed her struggling to keep her eyes open and gently brushed her fingers through her sugar's hair while whispering.

Mina - Why don't you go to bed, honeybee? I'll be here when you wake up. 

Y/N yawned, her eyelids growing heavy as she bid Mina goodnight. However, as Mina turned to leave, a playful thought entered the girl's mind. She didn't want to be apart from her beloved unnie just yet, so with a voice tinged with sleepiness she called for her.

Y/N - Wait, Mina unnie...

Mina turned around, a curious smile playing on her lips. 

Mina - What is it, love?

Y/N hesitated for a moment before speaking up. 

Y/N - Um... Can I... sleep with you tonight?

Mina's eyes widened in surprise, but she quickly regained her composure. She understood Y/N's attachment and knew how much she craved her presence. So she replied softly, extending her hand towards the youngest member.

Mina - Of course, bae. Come with me.

Y/N's face lit up, and she eagerly took Mina's hand. They made their way to Mina's room, their footsteps silent in the quiet dorm. As they entered, Y/N's heart fluttered with a mixture of excitement and nervousness. Mina settled onto her bed, propping herself up with pillows against the headboard. Y/N climbed onto the bed beside her, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. With a contented sigh, she snuggled closer to Mina's side. Mina's arms instinctively wrapped around her babygirl, creating a warm and comforting cocoon. The youngest rested her head on Mina's chest, her eyes closing as she listened to the steady rhythm of her heartbeat. But before she could fall asleep she mumbled drowsily, her voice barely above a whisper.

Y/N - I love you, Onee-chan. 

Mina's heart swelled with emotion as she heard Y/N's words. She gently ran her fingers through her kiddo's hair, a soft smile on her lips while she replied, her voice filled with tenderness for the girl in her arms.

Mina - I love you too, sweet girl. 

Y/N's grip tightened around Mina as if she never wanted to let go. At that moment, she felt safe and loved, wrapped in the warmth of Mina's embrace. Her eyelids grew heavier, and sleep finally claimed her. The night passed peacefully, with TWICE's baby sleeping soundly against Mina's chest. Mina stayed awake a little longer, cherishing the precious bond they shared. She brushed her lips against her sister's forehead and whispered before giving her a kiss there.

Mina - Sweet dreams, my dear dongsang.

As the sun began to rise, Y/N stirred from her slumber. She blinked her eyes open and found herself still nestled against Mina. A smile tugged at the corners of her lips as she remembered the events of the previous night, but her voice as she spoke betrayed her and showed how she felt, a clear mix of embarrassment and happiness.

Y/N - Mina unnie, did I really fall asleep on you? 

Mina chuckled softly while nodding.

Mina - Yes, you did. But it's okay, baby. I loved having you close.

Y/N's cheeks flushed, but she couldn't contain her joy. She hugged Mina tightly, her heart overflowing with love as she answered. 

Y/N - Thank you, Onee-chan. I love you so much.

Mina returned the embrace, her arms encircling Y/N protectively.

Mina - I love you too. You will always be the little sister I've never had, hon.

In the world of TWICE, their sisterly love continued to shine, a show of warmth and affection amidst the mess of their idol lives. From that night forward, Mina's lovebug and said girl's late-night cuddles became a cherished ritual, a comforting embrace that symbolized their unbreakable bond. Through the highs and lows, Y/N always found solace in Mina's presence, and Mina found joy in being the older sister the maknae had always longed for. As time passed, the youngest blossomed into a confident and talented young woman, all while carrying the love and support of her TWICE sisters. And in her heart, she knew that Mina would forever be her guiding light and beloved onee-chan. And that made the unnies that we're seeing all these changes, especially Mina, have only one thought: 

We are proud of our dear maknae.

A/N: I apologise for any errors, English is not my first language. Pls, let me know if there's something wrong, ty for reading <3

[set-wingedwarrior]

The Right time

So. It's been a hot minute, huh?

I'll spare you the long list of reasons why I haven't written for a while, and I can't even promise a full comeback because of my studies and stuff. I've written this very randomly, it's short, and I'm rusty, but I'm still happy I've been able to write something. I hope you'll like it :)

Shout out to @phoenix-fell for proofreading this very last minute, thanks bud!

AO3

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

Saying that they were shocked was an euphemism. Finding out that one of your friends is now decades older than you and turned into one of the main characters of your favorite childhood book isn’t a commonplace event. It makes you wonder how it must have felt for Jaune to realize that the guy he read about as a kid was actually his future self.

He surely knew how hard it was to process, which is why he left Team RWBY alone for some time, giving their minds the time to ease into that new reality before going straight back to business. In the meantime he’d use that spared hour to help the people of the Ever After that got hurt by the earlier attack, which is hardly a bad idea.

Ruby is visibly shaken, another hit on her sense of duty, feeling once again the failure to save a friend. Weiss is right beside her as the two take comfort in each other’s presence, and Yang feels particularly grateful that Weiss is still fighting to keep her promise to be the best partner she can be. It means that, at least for a little moment, Yang can take time for herself, and address the inner struggles regarding her own partner..

“Are you okay?” Blake, always the observant one, doesn’t miss the betraying flick of worry in Yang’s eyes.

“Yeah, I’m fine.” Yang’s quick to answer “It’s just- I think I need to talk to you.” She says, before she can change her mind. She’s aware that it’s not the right time, probably the worst actually, but when was there ever a right one?

“Oh! I- I mean- sure.” Blake’s nervousness is obvious, which is why Yang doesn’t hesitate to take her hand in hers and give it a reassuring squeeze. It works, and Blake lets herself be led outside. “So, what do you need to talk about? Are you sure you’re okay?”

“Yes- no- I mean-“ looking down, Yang can see the Rusted Knight, Jaune, moving around with Juniper to help people. She takes a deep breath; she can do this. She has to. “Listen. I know that this, whatever this is going on between us, is still new. And I wanted to wait for the right moment before bringing it up but… then I saw him.” she nodded towards Jaune “Did he even try to get home? How long has he been waiting for us to find him? Or for him to find us?” Yang knows she’s pretty much rambling right now, but Blake’s focused gaze and pointed ears tell her that she still has her undivided attention. “And now I keep wondering: what if that was me? Or you?”

“Yang, we don’t know how things work here, and this is all just a conjecture. But I know that if that was me, I would have waited for you. No matter if I had the chance to escape, I’d never leave you behind.”

“This is not what I meant. I…” now it’s Blakes turn to give her a comforting squeeze.

“What do you mean then? It’s okay, go on.”

“It just… it made me realize: there’s no right time. There’s just here and now. And I don’t wanna force anything on you, you don’t have to answer me in any way. But I can’t risk spending my whole life waiting; I just need to tell you. Blake, I lo-“

Yang doesn’t get the chance to finish, interrupted by a pair of lips pressing on her own. Her first instinct is to freeze, - this is her first kiss, their first kiss! – but she gets one second to reciprocate before Blake pulls back.

“Are you really telling me about waiting and what ifs?” Blake starts, her voice breaking “Yang, I watched you die.” She grips on Yang’s jacket, not holding her but keeping her close “I saw you fall and disappear into a void that I was sure was certain death, and everything just stopped. Atlas, the relics, the evacuation, all gone; all I could think about was that I needed to reach you. I would have jumped if Weiss hadn’t stopped me.”

“Blake…”

“Finding you here has been the greatest relief I have ever felt in my whole life. But, most importantly, it gave me, us, a second chance. I am not risking it, and I am not waiting anymore.” She says solemnly, before looking up and right into her eyes, the amber shining like gold “Yang Xiao Long, I am in love with-“

Yang tries, she really does, but she just can’t resist. She just has to lean down to kiss her again. This time it lasts a little longer, Blake has the time to adjust and kiss her back while both of their arms find their way around each other.

“I’m sorry.” Yang says after pulling back, with a wide grin that says she’s not sorry at all. Somehow Blake can’t bring herself to be mad. 

Then, the next time they speak is together, like they’re one person, one mind, one soul.

“I love you.”

They grin at each other. Grins that turn into smiles, that turn into giggles, until they let out a full blown laughter. It’s not even that funny, but they laugh so hard that they start crying.

All of their stress and fears finally find a way out through that pure unrestricted laughter. All of the feelings, good and bad, but most importantly all the love that has been held close to their hearts, are now free and out into the air of that unique and magical world. And they laugh like crazy, like in love. 

When it finally calms down, the two women look at each other, catch their breaths, then kiss again.

There’s never a right time for this sort of thing, especially when you’re a huntress and the world has fallen onto your shoulders. They could be gone tomorrow, or live long enough to witness the end of the world. 

Now is the right time. So they kiss, and laugh, and enjoy it to its fullest. Because that’s what makes it all more perfect: it’s the present.

[the-shadowsingers-whore]

a court of wards and shadow

chapter three

series overview

summary: aelis finally starts to settle into her new residence when azriel surprises her with an interesting invitation

length: 4.1k

warnings: mentions of anxiety, depression, trauma, and suicidal ideations

disclaimer: this fic in no way represents any of sarah j. maas' work or ideas, it is for purely fictional/personal entertainment purposes

masterlist /// next chapter >>

“oh no! it has nothing to do with lord helion! it’s just that …..” a blush stains my cheeks as i hesitate. i had already been on edge about meeting the high lord of night. even just standing before him now feels like almost too much. and the addition of having to answer his questions while also deciding how to explain my situation without disgracing high lord helion in any way only amplifies my anxiety to the point of near insanity. 

i wring my shaking hands together and stare at my feet as i try to find the right words, my nerves threatening to choke me. just when i feel the edge of panic start to claw it's way up my throat, i notice a twisting cloud of shadow weave its way around my ankles. i swear it’s as though i can actually feel it brush against me. that little bit of moving darkness distracts me from my nerves just enough to find words again. 

“it's just that some of the lower members of his court have more…..unsavory hobbies. and as a kitchen maid and serving girl i have little choice but to comply.”

i avert my eyes and stare at the floor, too embarrassed to look at him after my admission. as my gaze drops, i see an expression flash across the high lord’s face, telling me he understands enough of what i’m suggesting without me having to explain further. “i see,” he says slowly and carefully before pausing to contemplate the situation. 

the silence, although short, is enough to push my already fried nerves to the breaking point and i start rambling, my words thick with desperation. "and i know i'm asking for a lot by requesting to stay here and that it probably goes against all sorts of court politics and policies, but i just can't go back. and please don't feel like you need to trouble yourself with me, i can figure things out on my own, all i ask is that you please just don't send me back. please-"

the high lord holds up a hand in silent request and i immediately quiet. my cheeks heat with embarrassment over my outburst and i bow my head in supplication, mortified by my outburst. “i am so sorry my lord, i forget myself."

"oh it’s quite alright," he says, a gentle laugh following his words. “well," he pauses for a moment to glance at azriel who nods his head ever so slightly in response. "i think that with all things considered i am not opposed to you temporarily remaining in the night court.”

"oh thank you my lord, truly thank you." i reply meekily, trying my best to suppress the outburst of overwhelming relief flooding my body. 

"i will have nuawalla and cerridwan set up a room down the hall. i know the court of nightmares isn't exactly the most welcoming, but i will ensure your quarters are as from from--" 

“rhys?” azriel’s low voice interrupts and i shift my attention to him. he stands with his hands held loosely behind his back, his face void of any expression. “might i suggest we allow her to stay with the priestesses?”

“you mean in the…” the high lord’s voice trails off and azriel nods in response. “i don’t know if that’s a good idea.” a tense quiet fills the room and i glance between the two, watching them engage in some sort of silent conversation. after a few moments the high lord directs his attention back to me and i hold my breath, terrified of what he will say next.

"i will admit, your situation is a little more…. unique than the other females who have been offered refuge in… the night court, especially considering it's only temporary. but, i will allow it. on one condition." nervousness coils once more in my stomach at the serious tone in his voice. "wherever you find yourself next, you must never speak a word of what you experience during your time here in the night court."

"yes my lord, of course," i quickly reply, willing to comply with his simple, albeit slightly strange, request if it means i won’t have to return to the day court. 

"and none of this 'my lord' nonsense," he quips, waving his hand dismissively when i start to protest. "please, call me rhysand." 

* * *

i shift back and forth on my feet, my hands fidgeting with the edge of my tunic nervously. i glance around the balcony again, as i've done over and over for the last few minutes while waiting for azriel. after our meeting, nuawalla brought me here so azriel could speak privately with the high lord about the details of our arrangement. 

i hear a rustling behind me and turn to find azriel approaching. my eyes search his face for some hint about his conversation, but his expression remains neutral. before i have a chance to let my thoughts run away with me, he speaks, reaching out a hand towards me. "ready?" 

my confusion must show on my face because he continues before i have a chance to voice my question aloud. "the priestesses you will be staying with live in a sanctuary deep in the night court. within velaris to be more precise, a city that was kept hidden and secret for thousands of years. only recently, after an attack from hybern during the war, did the other courts learn about it's existence. it's the most precious part of the night court and we protect it at all costs." 

he pauses his explanation and my mind reels as i realize what he's implying. i will be completely safe here. no one will be able to reach me. despite the comfort in that revelation, i don’t miss the heavy implications lacing his tone. while there i will be protected, but once i leave they won’t hesitate to protect velaris against me if i fail to guard it’s secrets.

"we will shadow travel most of the way there," he continues, "but i will have to fly us into the sanctuary itself as there are wards that protect against winnowing and other magic."

my heart races at the thought of flying again, but my mind snags on the other words he said. "shadow travel?" 

"ahh…. yes." a strange expression crosses his face before he schools it back to neutrality and i get the sense that he did not mean to reveal that information to me. "it's an aspect of my… " he hesitates, gesturing towards the shadows twirling around him as he struggles to find the right words. "of my magic. it works similarly to winnowing, but i move through the shadows." 

"oh," i reply, voice full of awe as i watch one of the shadows slither across the ground to dance at my feet. my gaze never leaves the dark cloud bouncing in front of me as i ask my next question. "does it….. what does it feel like?" 

a small chuckle floats through the space between us and my eyes flick up to his for a moment. "you'll see," he replies, a playfulness lightening his voice. 

he extends his hand to me once more and i pause for a moment before reaching out to take it. even though i'm expecting it, the brush of his skin against mine still startles me and i fight the urge to tense up when he takes a step closer. 

"hold on tight," he murmurs in warning a moment before the shadows envelop us and the world goes black. for a moment i can see nothing, and the scent of rain fills my nose for a brief second. all i feel in the darkness is a pleasant warmth wrapped around me, like a comforting embrace. 

and then i'm blinking as the bright light of day fills my vision. i find myself on the top of a roof with a small garden and i release azriel’s hand to spin in a slow circle, taking in the sight of the city around me. he allows me to look for a few moments before interrupting. 

"i should get you to the library to meet the priestesses before the day gets too much later. i promise there will be plenty of time to see the city in the future," he adds when he notes the disappointment on my face. 

i nod in agreement and he steps closer, moving his arms around my back to scoop me up. my entire body involuntarily freezes at his touch and he pauses, pulling back. i know he is only trying to pick me up for the flight, but i can't help the way every muscle is locking up. 

"i'm sorry, i was only--" 

"no, it's okay," i interrupt before he can apologize further. i shake my head, trying to loosen up my body and dispel the panic shooting through my veins. after a moment i look back up at him, an embarrassed flush rising to my cheeks. "i'm okay." 

"are you sure? we can wait if--" 

"no, i'm okay. i'm good," i emphasize the words in an effort not only to convince him, but also myself. 

he evaluates me for a moment before stepping closer once more, cautiously scooping me into his arms. i consciously fight every instinct in my body to keep from tensing up beneath his touch. but then his huge wings spread and flap and suddenly we are no longer standing on the roof. the second i feel the rush of the wind against my face, my body relaxes, the chilly air soothing my nerves. 

my eyes dart about as he takes us through the sky, trying to take everything in all at once. i had been in this position once before, but my injuries robbed me of truly enjoying the whole experience. and oh what a crime that was. i want to close my eyes and focus on the feeling of the wind as it whips across my body, but at the same time i want to keep them open forever and watch the earth fly by far beneath me. 

the journey isn't long and before i know it, azriel is settling me back onto my feet. 

"most people tend to scream a bit more during their first flight," he says, the corners of his lips turning up ever so slightly as he takes in the broad smile on my face.

"why?" i reply breathlessly, my mind and body still riding the high from flying." i mean i just don't understand how…… it's just that……when you're up there, how… " i laugh as i struggle to find the words to express the experience. "it was just so exhilarating. i've never felt something like that before. it felt so, so free." 

a blush tints my cheeks as i come back into myself. here i am stumbling over myself and gushing about something he has done every day for basically his entire life. i probably sound ridiculous. 

but azriel surprises me by responding in an almost melancholic tone, "yes, nothing feels quite as freeing as flying." a far off look enters his eyes for a moment but i only catch a glimpse before he shakes it off and turns towards the doorway of the balcony we landed on, gesturing inside the house with a sweep of his hand. 

"welcome to the house of wind, aelis." 

he leads me through an endless series of winding hallways and corridors that i don't think i will ever be able to keep track of. along the way he gives me a brief explanation of the library he's taking me to as well as the general nature of those residing within. 

eventually we arrive and he introduces me to clotho, the priestess who is in charge of the library. he doesn't say much else before departing to attend to some court business 

the priestess leads me on a silent tour through the library, showing me all the relevant rooms, ending with the one i will be staying in. despite her inability to speak, i find that i have no problem understanding her. in fact, i find the quiet of her presence oddly comforting.

after acknowledging my thank you for the tour with a silent nod, clotho departs, leaving me to settle in. as soon as i close the door behind me, exhaustion starts to settle into my body, the last few days finally catching up with me. i collapse onto the small, but comfortable bed, sighing heavily. a glance out the little window shows that the sun is still far from setting, but i can't find it in me to stay awake any longer. i close my eyes, the tiredness in my bones dragging me into a deep sleep. 

* * *

i jolt awake to a soft knocking on the door and bolt upright in bed, glancing around wildly at the unfamiliar room. after a moment, i remember where i am and take a few steadying breaths. 

i hear whoever is outside my room rap on the door softly once more before gently cracking it. azriel peaks his head inside and then opens the door further, stepping inside once he confirms i am awake. 

"sorry if i startled you," he murmurs softly. "i stopped by to check in and clotho told me you never came to dinner. i assumed you probably fell asleep and thought i would bring you some food." 

he gestures to the full tray in his hands and my eyes widen slightly. i remain silent, too stunned by his thoughtfulness to respond.

"i’m sorry, i shouldn't have just barged in here. i'm sure this is all very overwhelming and you probably just wanted to be left alone." 

"no, no, it's alright!" i interrupt, having finally found my words. "sorry, i was just surprised that you brought me food. it's just so kind and thoughtful. i’ve never…… i’m not used to…." my words trail off and die in my throat. 

he offers me a gentle smile as he crosses the room and sets the tray on the little table near my bed. "don't worry about it, it was no trouble at all. enjoy." and with that he bows his head slightly and excuses himself from the room. 

* * *

the following days and weeks pass quickly and uneventfully, with me helping out around the library and filling my time with cleaning every neglected nook and cranny. clotho keeps insisting it’s unnecessary, that i’m here to rest and find peace, but I can’t help myself. i don't want to feel like i'm taking advantage of their generosity, i want to earn my keep. 

not to mention this incessant gnawing beneath my skin, this sense that i don't belong here. no matter how kind or welcoming the other priestesses are i continue to feel on edge around them, like an outsider, an imposter. keeping busy helps me bury that feeling, helps me focus on something else instead of dwelling in my thoughts.

this particular afternoon finds me on my hands and knees, scrubbing dust away from some shelves tucked away in a dark corner that probably hasn't been touched in decades. i lean back on my heels to wipe some sweat from my brow when i hear footsteps approaching. turning, i’m surprised to find azriel standing a few feet away. 

from what i’ve gathered during my time here, he rarely enters the library itself, much less coming this far into its depths. and i haven't seen him in over a week since i last ran into him in passing while he was escorting some of the priestesses back from training. 

"hi," i manage to say after a moment. 

"hello, aelis." he replies while stepping closer and extending his hand to help me up. "i didn't expect to find you so deep in the library. not many venture quite this far." 

i hesitate for a moment before taking his hand, suppressing the shudder that threatens to ripple through me at the memories that flash through my head at the feeling of his rough skin against mine. 

gently, he pulls me up, then takes a small step back as he releases my hand, putting a respectful distance between us. 

"i guess i didn't notice how far in i was. i must have gotten distracted by the trail of dirty shelves." i chuckle softly, the lie rolling easily off my tongue. in truth, i like to come down here to escape the prying questions of some of the nosier priestesses. i guess it's not everyday that a serving girl from a foreign court seeks refuge amongst them. and as much as i understand their intrigue and questioning, i have no desire to unpack all the burdens of my past now that i have finally started to bury them. 

if azriel notices my lie, he doesn’t let on, choosing to simply continue our conversation, his tone light, bordering on playful. "and what could possibly possess you to want to scrub the grime off the depths of the library all day? i know it's not a task from clotho, she tends to prefer people gather and organize the endless stream of books she's always pouring through." 

"just trying to keep busy." i respond and a knowing look crosses his face, but he doesn't asks questions like i assumed he might. instead his lips tilt up slightly and his eyes brighten as he teases, "i can see that." he gestures to my forehead. i immediately reach up to touch it, a questioning look on my face. when a breath of laughter escapes him i realize that i've only managed to further smear the dust and dirt from the shelves across my sweaty skin. 

he takes a step towards me before pausing. "ummm, may i?" he asks quietly, reaching into some hidden pocket of his leathers for a handkerchief. 

my eyes widen slightly as i pick up on his meaning, but for some reason i still find myself nodding in agreement. he takes another careful step towards me before slowly reaching up and gently wiping the dirt away from my brow. 

his fingers linger for a moment before he lowers his hand, but this time he doesn't step away. his eyes flick over my face, assessing every inch before finally speaking. "there you are." 

his low baritone rumbles softly through the air between us and wraps around me. i don't dare breath, afraid to disrupt whatever silent force has settled around us. we stare at each other and i feel myself getting lost in the depths of his hazel eyes, wondering about all the secrets they hold. suddenly he averts his gaze and steps away. i lose the breathe i had been holding and shake my head to clear my thoughts. 

"well," he says after clearing his throat and taking another step back. he turns to gesture towards the way up and out of the library. "i did come down here with an actual purpose. i have something to show you." 

i nod in response before following him, unable to form actual words as i think about his rough hands gently cleaning my forehead or about how close he was standing. and how neither of those things bothered me like they would have if anyone else did them. 

as we walk i continue to ponder how odd it is that i feel so at ease around azriel as compared to everyone else i’ve met here. or anyone else i've ever been around for that matter. there's nothing really inherently different about him, but somehow i don’t feel the same nervous energy that fills me when i’m around others. i don’t feel tense or on edge in his presence, just a quiet sense of calm that i can’t quite understand. 

i sneak a glance at azriel while i follow him through the house and suppress the urge to laugh at the ridiculousness of the situation. this deadly warrior, covered in more weapons than i can count is the one thing in this strange place who doesn't scare me. not the gentle priestesses who have provided for me and  shown me nothing but kindness. not the high lady and her joyful toddler who bring by decadent treats and art supplies. not even the cats that seem to harmlessly roam the library. no, it's the dark male wrapped in shadows with few words and even fewer expressions that makes me feel truly safe and at ease. 

* * *

after following him through more twists and turns than i can keep track of, we finally step through a set of doors onto a large balcony. i pause in the threshold as my eyes scan the space, taking in the sight in front of me. 

the space in front of me is set up as a training ring. scattered throughout it in various groups and formations are the priestesses, most of whom i at least somewhat recognize from the library. some are training in their robes while others are in fighting leathers, not too unlike the ones azriel wears. 

i recognize nesta leading a group through some balancing routines while cassian teaches another group about sword maneuvers. a redhead i remember seeing once in passing is leading a few priestesses through what looks to be an absolutely brutal core workout. 

my eyes flick around the space, taking everything in. i had known that quite a few of the priestesses were participating in some sort of training, but i had no idea it was so….. intense. 

"so what do you think?" azriel’s voice startles me and i jump slightly. i was so mesmerized by watching the training that i completely forgot i didn’t come here alone. 

"it's….. wow." 

"most of the priestesses are here every day. same with nesta, gwyn, and emerie, they lead a lot of the training. cass and i come and help when we can." azriel explains as i continue to watch, eyes bouncing between the different groups. 

"i….i don't know what to say. i’ve never seen so many females training like this before. i would have never imagined……." 

"the training’s almost over today, but don't worry. if you come by after lunch tomorrow we can get you started." 

those words are enough to finally pull my gaze from the priestesses sparring. 

"what?" i ask, confusion tinting my voice. "get started with what?" 

"your training of course." azriel says the words so matter-of-factly, as if they weren't the most confounding thing i have ever heard. 

"oh no, i couldn't possibly--"

"why not? they are all doing it." he nods his head in the direction of the training ring and the dozen or so priestesses scattered throughout. 

"but i'm not like them, i'm…." my words trail off and die on my lips. i’m not supposed to be here. i’m not supposed to be alive. but, i can’t say that. i can’t admit that ugly truth to him. so instead, “i'm just a kitchen maid. a serving girl. and a lowly one at that. what right do i have to train with all these powerful, incredible females? 

"you're what?" azriel asks gently, a knowing yet sympathetic expression on his face. "a female who has been through something terrible and survived? every single one of them has a story of their lives before they came here. some too terrible to speak aloud. but, they all survived and eventually made it here, to this training ring. and now they come here everyday, not only to grow stronger and learn to defend themselves, but also as a way to heal."

the difference is, they wanted to survive. that realization wraps around my heart like an icy blanket as guilt and shame roll in my gut. all of these priestesses training in front of me have been through horrific trauma and are here fighting every day to grow stronger, to survive. i’m here because i’m a coward. a broken, pathetic coward.

i turn away from the training ring, unable to watch any longer. i can’t train with these female. i don’t deserve to. 

he pauses for a moment and it takes everything in me to force the emotion off of my face before he is able to see how broken i truly am. "no one is going to make you  join them. it is entirely up to you. but from what i saw on that mountain, you are a fighter, you don't give up easily." if he only knew. "so just know that this ring is always here and you are always welcome. it would probably be a better use of your time then scrubbing dirt from shelves no one has touched in decades. "

and with that he turns and gestures back inside, wordlessly guiding me back to my room in the library before leaving me to think. 

next chapter>>

thanks for reading and lmk what you think! i love hearing all your feedback!!!

taglist: send me an ask to get added to the taglist! (i only ask that you follow me and pls pls pls interact with my fic)

©️ the-shadowsingers-whore - plagiarizing, reposting, and translating is not permitted

[yomiurinikei]

Like LINJU has great designs for majority of the characters, to big details to the small things. (When I was sdra2 Utsuro I thought the design was so cool, lol I just liked the jacket on shoulders) but then Kinjo's design was messed up. I'm a bit of a fan of the eye being there always to show how Tsurugi life was in Utsuro hands but I don't understand why it looks like it hurts his skin? Like we don't see that for the void and none of them mention about their eye hurting (aka, Nikei cause he would probably the only one who could tell them). Kinjo deserved better.

sorry sorry sorry anon i am so sorry i just want you to know this ask may be the thing that ends my like. over four years running this blog. not this ask particularly but i’ve been seeing such. wildly different takes from what i’m used to and it’s. they’re not wrong. but i have -3 clue where anyone is getting their information and on the one hand, semi seriously, im nervously remembering back when unintentional misinformation was huge and people ended up believing a bunch of like… headcanons to be fact…..

but on a more lighthearted note. man i just remember everyones theory being that tsurugis eye was to show his negative development and the way the game messed him up. objectively worse than the others, and that the scarring was from him trying to gouge it out, like… landslide plays in the background oh my goddd 😭

anyways anyone remember my planned series talking shit about linujs designs? i canceled it (as opposed to just never finishing it) but damn there’s another example….

ANYWAYS sorry i did not answer your question whatsoever i just rambled. anyways. yeah the theory i always stuck with was that the discoloration was a result of an attempt to. “fix” his eye brought on by not being well mentally which resulted in just hurting himself, hence the discoloration (with it here being like… scarring!)

we also never got much explanation on the eyes in general… i always viewed them as just being a thing linuj included for dramatic effect cuz that kinda stuff is fun and then the kinjo eye was parallels yk yk

[stellarhistoria]

"It's a very nice place, and honestly I think you're going to enjoy it. It's quite atmospheric, the energy of the area around it is rather delightful, and I've already seen some people starting to show up, though it's a particularly slow start to it all, which, in my humble opinion, is better than everyone showing up at once."

the pirate finds himself rambling on to ease the nerves of the younger sibling beside him, currently decked out in autumnal colors akin to a sunset, or the fall season itself truly. "You're not going to upstage the Prince if that's your concern, Aryin."

"I cannot upstage the Prince, I am a Knight. Er, well, ah, I suppose I was? At least, in that regard, I have little idea as to how someone of my stature would be able to out shine the Prince of this gala. Or, eh, celebration? Festival. Yes."

aryin still finds himself huffing rather dramatically, running a hand through his hair which he has put relaxant into to help make it more manageable for a more, ah, windy area. or at least, an area that will be with more people than he's been around in some years now, over a decade right?

holding his pet fox, erebus ( a small - but not too small - vulpine creature made of magic and beast alike, pelt a gorgeous void black and given a purple space pattern across it with markings like stars through the pelt ), he can't help but look around nervously. "Do you think they allow pets?"

"Seeing as your familiar is more than a pet, and I'm fairly certain that I saw a chocobo nearby here, I wouldn't say it's too far out of reasoning for you to have a small fox always nearby you."

[lesbianjackies]

Don't Say Anything At All

Klaus Baudelaire x ADHD!Reader

Request: I've never done this before but can I request a Klaus Baudelaire x Reader who has ADHD? Like their mind works faster than their mouth and they can be loud and obnoxious but also feel insecure about it? You can ignore this if it makes you uncomfortable or anything :)

Gender: Not specified

Warnings: None, this is pure fluff :)

Word Count: 969

A/N: Y'all I am so sorry. Stuff's been really rough for me this past few months so I have just not been able to write :(( I know I say this every time I post and every time I disappear into the void without another fic, but I really do want to start writing more regularly. I love writing and I think it'll be good for my mental health, and I just wanna give you guys more content! I'm trying to get around to the requests I have right now even though they're months old and the requesters have probably longgg forgotten about them (sorry again), but my requests are still open so if you got something feel free to send it in. I'd prefer you not send it anonymously - this hasn't been a requirement before and I will still write anon requests, but since I cannot be trusted to get around to requests in a reasonable amount of time, I'd prefer to have your username so I can tag you in the fic. (This is so if it takes me months to get around to your request, you can still see it when I eventually do write it.) I really do love you all, and I hope you enjoy this fic!!

You knock on the door, bouncing slightly on your heels. You bite your lip anxiously as you skim over the paper you wrote. The content is good, you think, but Klaus will have to look over it to check for any distraction-induced mistakes. You feel like a nuisance bothering him over things like this, but you’ve learned time and time again that if he doesn’t check your work you’ll miss some tiny mistake that’s a little more than tiny to your professor and take your grade down a letter or two.

It takes only a moment for Klaus to answer your knocking, a small smile on his face when he sees you outside his house. “(Y/N)!” he says, glancing at the papers in your hand. “You need me to check, I assume?”

You nod nervously, hoping he’s not too bothered by the request. You know it’s silly; Klaus is always happy to help you with whatever you need, but everyone else seems to be annoyed by the trouble you have with what they consider to be simple tasks, and you can’t help being afraid Klaus will someday start to agree with them.

“All right,” he says kindly, taking the papers from you and leading you to his room. He flicks the light on and takes a seat at his desk, grabbing a red pen to make revisions with. He tilts his head over to his bed. “You can have a seat, if you want. There’s no need to stand awkwardly by the door.” His tone is teasing, not judgmental, and you grin before sitting in a cross-legged position.

“Thanks.” You bite your lip and crane your neck in an attempt to catch a glimpse of your paper, but you can’t see from behind Klaus, so you give up and draw your attention to his bookshelves. “Have you read all of these?” you wonder aloud.

“Mhm,” he hums in response, still focused on your paper. “I’ve read a few of them more than once.”

“Wow,” you breathe. “I mean, I read a lot, too - I’ve read most of the books I own, as well as some I’ve only borrowed, but I don’t own nearly as many as you do, and I don’t think my taste is as broad as yours. I mean, I see fantasy, historical fiction, realistic fiction, non-fiction - you have everything on your shelves! I usually stick to fantasy or science fiction - I just get bored with the realistic stuff, you know? I’ve already got enough of reality in reality - I don’t need to read about it. Not that it’s bad that you read other stuff! It’s good, really, you’re doing better than me, to be honest; I wish I could read those other things. I just - “ You stop, realizing you’ve been rambling. “Sorry,” you say, lowering your voice. “I should shut up.”

“No, no,” Klaus says, getting up from his spot at his desk and sitting beside you. “Don’t shut up, I like when you talk.” He nudges you with a smile. “And there’s nothing wrong with having a specific taste in books.”

You look at him, a blush covering your face that you hope he doesn’t notice. Most people hate hearing you talk; they say they can never get a word in and all you do is ramble. For someone - especially Klaus - to not only enjoy your rambling, but care enough to respond to what you were rambling about, is something you don’t think you’ll ever get used to. “Th- thank you.”

He looks a little confused at the expression of gratitude. “Of course. Oh, and I finished looking over your paper,” he says, getting up to grab it before sitting back down. “It’s really good - all of your points are excellent and cohesive, and I really like the wording of all of it. There are just a few spots with some minor grammar and spelling mistakes, nothing too hard to revise.”

You nod. You know you should feel proud of what you did well, but all you can feel is failure making a home out of your stomach. “Sorry. I know they’re silly mistakes to make, I just get really caught up in what I’m writing about and forget stuff like that. I’m trying to do better about it. I just wish I wasn’t such an idiot.” You look at your lap, fiddling with your fingers as you avoid Klaus’s gaze.

Klaus frowns and tilts your head up gently so you’re forced to look at him. “Hey, don’t apologize. Having trouble with grammar and spelling doesn’t make you an idiot. You’re actually really smart, and this paper you wrote is a prime example of that. Don’t beat yourself up over small things. This paper is really, really good, and I know you’re gonna get an amazing grade on it.” He looks at you nervously before placing a hasty kiss on your lips.

You blink, mouth slightly open in surprise.

He turns red and looks away, stuttering. “I- I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have done that. Please- please don’t let this change anything between us, it was an impulsive thing to do, and I shouldn’t have - “

You cut him off by placing a hand on his cheek and kissing him back. “It’s okay. I liked it.”

Now it’s Klaus’s turn to gape. “I- I… really like you, (Y/N)” he confesses, voice hushed.

A smile stretches across your face. “I really like you, too, Klaus,” you respond with a giggle.

Klaus returns the smile. “A- all right, then. Nice. Cool.” He gives you a pained expression. “Can you tell that I don’t know what to say?”

You laugh and cup his face with both hands. “Then don’t say anything at all, dummy.” And you kiss him again.

[professorsnape394]

The Potions Master’s Apprentice

Chapter Eighteen: Faith 

A/N: This is the Eighteenth part to my fanfiction ‘The Potions Master’s Apprentice (Severus Snape x OC)’. Chapters 1-18 can also be found already uploaded on Wattpad under the same name. Feel free to leave requests in my inbox for anything Snape related you want me to write. Leave a comment below or send me a message if you wish to be added to my tag list.

Pairing: Severus Snape x OC (Dumbledore’s Granddaughter)

Summary: A talented young witch is employed as an apprentice professor at Hogwarts, but who will she be working under? Severus Snape is not best pleased with his new responsibility of taking on an apprentice, however she is relentless to create a friendship between them. Will she be successful? Or might the friendship just go a little two far? With the eyes of her grandfather constantly watching over them, an attempt at a relationship might not be in the cards for Aria Dumbledore and Severus Snape.

Word Count: 4199

Warnings: n/a

Credits to Gif Creator

The rapping of knuckles against the old oak door echoed throughout the potions master's office. Breaking through the thick silence that had engulfed the room, a wave of anxiety washed over Severus Snape.

"Can I not go one day without you bothering me, Miss Dumbledore." Snape complained, trying to hide slight crack of nervousness in his voice.

"Sadly, Severus, it is not your beloved Miss Dumbledore." A thick Bulgarian accent announced.

Admittedly disappointed by the unveiling of his visitor, Severus lowered himself back down into his chair, not willing to make an effort for anyone but his apprentice.

"Why are you here, Igor. You should have learned your lesson by now to leave me alone." He said, rubbing his eyes back into focus and running a hand through his hair lazily.

"I have something you'll want to hear." Karkaroff divulged mysteriously, plopping himself down on the chair across from the professor.

"I do not imagine anything you have to say is of any interest to me."

"Then lucky for you Snape, I won't be the one talking."

Unbothered by the man's deliberate awkwardness, Severus allowed him to ramble on, too exhausted to argue with him.

With a flick of his wand and a small puff off smoke, the space between the two men began to whirl and spin, slowly forming a picture-like image in the air, the scene beginning to unfold. Revealing a staff room full of unusually dressed professors, the focus turned to a small cluster of teachers gathered in the centre of the room. Recognising both Igor Karkaroff and Aria Dumbledore sitting side by side on the old couch, Snape grew suspicious of the man's intentions.

"Why are you showing me this?" Severus asked, unsure of whether he wanted to see what was about to happen.

"Just listen." The Durmstrang headmaster hissed.

~

"How do I feel about Snape?" Aria wondered, the scene enclosing in on her.

"He's... curious. He has the capacity for love and friendship just like the rest of us, yet he chooses to be mean-spirited."

~

"I don't want to hear this." Snape declared, turning his eyes away from the woman.

"You must." Igor demanded.

~

"...he can be mean and arrogant and cruel. And despite it all I try my best to show him kindness, but where does that get me? He calls me out in front of practically the whole school? That was so fucking humiliating, and I'm just supposed to forgive him? I think it's safe to say I'd live a happy life if I were to never see that man again."

~

Severus felt his heart drop in his chest, unable to process what he had just heard. Slowly a sharp ringing in his ears grew louder and louder, deafening him to the scene before him, as well as the reality in which he existed. He refused to believe the woman he cared so much about, the woman who had demanded to be his friend, had lied about everything. Did she truly hate him beneath her annoyingly cheerful demeanour, was it all a façade?

He wanted to insist Karkaroff had fabricated the whole thing, but he knew exactly what spell he had cast, there was no way he could have faked it.

A deep rage grew within the man, an anger he had not felt in a number of decades. Severus Snape prided himself on having a monotone disposition, void of all emotion. But that familiar feeling of being betrayed by someone he trusted brought forward a plethora of pent up emotions, namely anger and frustration.

A wide, devilish grin spread across Karkaroff's face, satisfied by his colleague's reaction.

"You see now what she is truly like, Severus. You see now that she was playing you all along. That girl pretends to be your friend to keep her job, not because she likes you." Igor laughed maliciously. "You and I both know what is coming, and when it does, Dumbledore is prepared to replace you. Even he knows where your true loyalties lie. Do not be fooled into thinking the Dumbledore's are your friends. They use you for their own advantage, but the second you are no longer useful, or you become a threat to them, you'll be taken down by any means necessary."

"You're lying." Snape tried to convince himself, refusing to meet the professors gaze. "You're scared of what he will do to you if he returns. You need an alliance with someone on the inside."

"He has returned, you must feel it just as I do." The ex-deatheater practically screamed.

"I will not be manipulated by you Igor. This changes nothing, the girl was nothing but a distraction."

"We both know that isn't true." He sniggered, attempting once last time to convince Snape. "Do you know what she said to me, the last time I was in this office? She told me she could never be with a man like you, she told me your actions were unforgivable. I can prove that as well if you don't believe me."

"Get out, Igor. Just leave." Severus exhaled, starting to pace slowly behind his desk. He knew Karkaroff was trying to manipulate him, he was not stupid enough to fall for that. But proof does not lie, and the facts remain. Everything he was saying true, there was no denying it.

With a short bow, Igor danced out of the room. Completely satisfied with the havoc he'd reeked. He'd successfully toyed with what little emotions the great dungeon bat had left. And who's to say what can happen when Severus Snape's feelings get hurt?

*

Hoot. Hoot.

The bird bleated as it swooped through the open window.

"Another letter for the pile?" Aria sighed to herself. "Will he ever stop?"

Whoo.

It purred in response.

The witch couldn't help but laugh at the coincidence.

"You know exactly who." She giggled, plucking the envelope from the creatures beak, and throwing it on the ever growing pile.

"I just wish he would give me some time to think, you know?" She asked turning back to the barn owl, only to witness it taking off, disappearing into the distance.

Look at me. I'm talking to a bird. She thought with a roll of her eyes. I need to get some sleep.

Catching a glimpse of herself reflection of the window, Aria decided she needed to freshen herself up with a little pamper time, finishing the day off with a very long and well deserved nap.

Dumping almost a whole bottle of bubble bath into the tub, topping with springs of lavender and dried chamomile, Aria plunged herself deep into the warm water.

Relaxing for approximately 2.5 seconds, the woman flew out of the bath, her naked body sopping with bubbles, dripping puddles of water as she explored her quarters impatiently.

"Why can I never find any of my books when I need them most!" She groaned, shivering from the sudden change in temperature as goose bumps formed all over her arms and legs.

Letting out a single yelp of excitement, Aria grabbed the first book she laid eyes on and dived back into her tub.

"Pride and Prejudice, of course." She mumbled, thinking back to that night Severus visited her quarters.

As she read and her mind wandered, Aria found herself making unconscious comparisons between the infamous, brooding Mr. Darcy, and her stern, yet lovable Potions mentor, Severus Snape. They were both mildly rude and arrogant, determined to never show their true emotions, but deep down it was quite possible that they loved more fiercely than anyone ever could.

Elizabeth Bennet enchanted Darcy mind, body and soul. If only there were someone brave enough to do the same to Professor Snape. Aria thought, as she allowed herself to drift off to sleep in the water.

Hours later a thunderously loud 'Bang' frightened Aria awake.

Although not positively sure of how much later it was, she could be certain a decent sleep was had given the icy temperature of the water.

Aria allowed herself a moment to come to, bracing herself against the cold, her was body aching from the ceramic constraints of the tub.

A series of bangs came this time, chapping very loudly on her chamber door. Who ever it was was clearly extremely impatient, forcing her to hurry herself up.

Wrapping herself in nothing but a white cotton towel, the witch slid her way through her rooms to the door. Clearly she wasn't even awake enough to remember where she was, and that answering her door half naked wasn't exactly professional.

Bang. Bang. BANG.

The knocks reverberated through her body, sending shivers down her spine.

Gingerly she opened the door, revealing a more than pissed off Severus Snape.

"Severus." She yawned. "What's wrong?"

"Don't act dumb with me, girl. I am not falling for this act any longer." He snapped.

"What act, Severus? Why are you here?"

"Just tell me why?" He seethed. "Why did go to so much trouble trying to convince me to be your friend, only to confess to Karkaroff, as well as the rest of the Hogwarts staff, your true feelings. Why couldn't you just leave me alone."

"Severus listen, I think we need to talk about this in private. Please come in."

"So you can try and seduce me again? I don't think so. Jesus, look at the state of you, are you really that desperate to entice me? What's next, showing up to dinner completely naked? You really are just as I thought." The potions master growled, his pitch back eyes looking her up and down.

"Severus stop" Aria begged. "I thought we had moved past all this."

"So did I. But considering you have deemed me as "unforgivable" then there doesn't appear to be much point in trying to redeem myself, does there?"

"But you're only going to make everything worse. Let me explain myself, please."

"There is nothing to explain, I shall be putting in a formal request for the headmaster to employ a separate tutor for your apprenticeship in the morning, so you never have to see me again."

The professor stormed off, just as quickly as he had arrived, achieving exactly what he had come to do; humiliate Aria Dumbledore.

Desperate to apologise for her cruel words, Aria made to follow Severus to his classroom.

Forgetting her attire, or rather lack of, she was soon reminded of it when a crowd of Slytherin students erupted in a fit laughter with its fair share of cat-calls and whistles. Clearly they had emerged from their common room to investigate the noise, but stayed for the show of the two arguing potions professors.

"Nice legs, Miss." One of the older boys called, sending a wink in her direction.

Shit. She mumbled under her breath, rushing back to her quarters to change.

Hair still dripping wet, Aria shoved it into a bun on top of her head and pulled on some shorts and an oversized t-shirt, before hunting down the potions master.

"Severus, open the door." She called, upon initially finding it to be locked.

He didn't even bother to reply.

Fine. She thought. I'll do it myself.

"Alohomora." The lock burst apart, allowing the door to slowly creep open, revealing a dishevelled and distressed professor sitting at his desk.

"Severus, please." She whispered softly, realising he had clearly come down from his short outburst of rage.

"Get out." He commanded, though he didn't make any effort to remove his head from his hands.

"Let's talk about this." The woman pleaded, pulling a chair up next to the man. "Let me explain everything."

Snape stirred from his position the closer she came, until finally he was able to look her in the eye.

"Go on." He droned. His eyes red and blood shot, whether it was from lack of sleep or tears was unclear.

"You know more than anyone that Karkaroff cannot be trusted-"

"Don't try and lie to me, Miss Dumbledore. I saw the whole thing with my own eyes." Snape snapped.

"Will you let me finish. I'm not lying to you, Severus." Aria promised. "I said what I said because I didn't want them to know the truth, Karkaroff especially. I don't know what his problem is but I know he's up to something and it involves you. You really think I'd answer any question he asked me truthfully. You're my friend, Severus, I care about you, and that man is a snake for trying to turn us against each other."

"Why should I believe you. I've barely known you a few months, I've known Igor decades."

"That is precisely why you should believe me. He's not your friend, Severus. If he was he'd be able to see the real you; the man behind the mask." She urged, begging for his trust.

Reaching out her hand to take his, Aria stroked a thumb over the cold and calloused hand of her friend.

"And who might that be?" Severus questioned in return, feeling slightly nervous under her touch, but not enough to want to pull away.

"A man." She stated simply. "Not a beast, as you and many others may presume. A good, and decent man. Perhaps he's a even a little bit scared, of what I'm not entirely sure yet. But I will find out one day, if you'll allow me, that is. Let me be your friend, Severus. Let me see what you hide from everyone else. And I promise, I'll be there for you when it matters most."

Her sweet soft tones encapsulated Severus. He had become so lost in her words and her touch that without realising he found himself falling for her speech wholeheartedly. He even risked settling his remaining hand upon hers, clasping her delicate fist between his palms.

"Well then I suppose an apology is in order. I believe I may have acted rather rash and unprofessional."

"There's really no need. You reacted just as you should have to the things you heard. I would have done the same thing in your circumstance." Aria admitted, removing her hand from his, as she made to stand up. "Though there is one thing you could do to make it up to me." She suggested.

"Dare I even ask?" Severus joked.

"I want to know what Karkaroff's after. Tell me how you know him. Why does he care so much about your life?"

Snape practically laughed in response.

"We may be friends now, Miss Dumbledore, but I'm afraid that information is rather personal. And I am not convinced we are quite at that stage in our friendship, just yet."

"I respect that." She shrugged, knowing he wasn't about to give in that easily. "I suppose that just means we'll have to get to know each other a bit more." She smiled almost ear to ear at the prospect.

*

"What do you have planned for your lesson today, Professor Dumbledore?" Severus queried, finally using the woman's rightful professional title.

"Ooooh 'Professor' now, am I?" She smirked, sashaying in front of her co-worker, balancing a handful of potion ingredients in her arms.

"I suppose that is your given title after all, I might as well start using it."

"Hmmm I'm not sure. I think it make's me sound too much like my grandfather. I'm not sure I could pull of the beard quite as well, what do you think?" She giggled, holding her long hair in front of her chin, imitating the old wizard playfully before clumsily dropping another dozen bottles on the table.

Severus tried his hardest to conceal his smile, busying himself with paper work, but however hard he tried he could not hide it from Aria. Every so often she managed to catch him off guard, with a silly joke, or a quick witted comment, in those rare times he allowed himself a glimmer of emotion she always managed to notice. Most of the time Severus found himself smiling at the woman for no reason other than she was simply smiling too.

Finally turning her attention away from the potions master, Aria finished setting up her table full of small bottles and vials.

"We're going to play a game." She announced cheerfully spinning on her heel.

"A game?" Severus asked, unable to stop himself turning his nose up at her idea.

"Yes. It's like a test, but more fun." She persuaded, sensing his judgement.

"And what, might I ask, is wrong with a traditional test."  He queried bitterly.

"The students need motivation, Severus. The word 'test' makes people nervous. With nervousness comes panic, and with panic comes mistakes. Fear is not an accurate motivator, however competition is. The students will be less inclined to make mistakes, if they are rewarded for their efforts." The apprentice hypothesised.

"And this reward is?"

"I haven't decided yet."

Severus fought the urge to roll his eyes, but allowed her to do her thing uninterrupted.

Since their little 'heart to heart' that night in Snape's office the two professors were finding working with each other a lot more amiable. Severus had given Aria a little more free reign with her portion of the lessons, which in turn, allowed her to respect Severus' strict theoretical practices without causing too many interruptions. The pair had almost started to enjoy working together.

Student by student the class trickled in, each of them intrigued by the new set up of the class room.

"Everyone please take your seats, do not touch the table at the front of the room, class will begin momentarily." Miss Dumbledore announced.

A moment of panic set in as Aria scrambled around Snape's desk, looking for her list of possible potions. This may not have been her first time teaching solo, but it was, however, her opportunity to prove her practices are successful in front of her mentor, Severus Snape. The man in question could see the fear in her eyes, and that she was desperate to impress.

"Here." He mouthed, handing her the piece of parchment. "Relax."

Brushing fingers, as she took the parchment from him, Aria grinned.

"Thank you." She whispered, once again turning to face the class, now with a little more confidence.

"Now today, as you may have guessed, we are going to do something a little different. Professor Snape and I have chosen to take this opportunity to allow you, our promising young N.E.W.Ts students, to show off your skill set to the best of your ability's. On this table in front of me you will find a select variety of potions ingredients that correspond to a number of potions all very much within your capability, your task is to complete one of these potions within the allotted time, at the end of which, a winner will be selected by us."

"What do we win then, professor?" One eager student asked.

"A potion of their choice." She declared, impulsively.

A murmer of chatter instantly broke out among the class, intrigued at the prospect of winning such a thing.

"That all sounds very exciting, Miss Dumbledore." Snape cut in, unwilling to take a backseat quite so easily. "However, sadly as an apprentice professor you are not permitted to take anything from my stores to use so frivolously. The prize will have to be decided at a later time."

Unsurprisingly the students weren't too pleased with Snape's intervention causing for a series of disappointed groans and heckles.

"Then I shall make it myself." Aria concluded.

Another bout of cheers erupted.

"Collect your ingredients, light up your cauldrons, your time starts now!"

Immediately the students jumped from their seats, swarming the table to get what they needed. The professors moved away from the crowd, giving the class a moment to get started.

"Miss Dumbledore, this is not a wise decision." Severus spoke in hushed tones. "I understand entirely the prize of a potion chosen by you, but to give them a choice could be extremely dangerous, think of the chaos that will ensue."

"How about you have a little faith in them for once. Trust that they will make the right decision."

Looking down on the woman, Severus couldn't help but trust she would be right.

"I have faith in you. Not in them." He made clear.

Severus made to walk away, leaving Aria to relish in her small victory, until he was suddenly pulled back by the young woman's hand in his. Not saying a word, Aria Dumbledore gave him an appreciative squeeze, before releasing him back to his desk.

The first hour of the classes passed by effortlessly, the students worked quietly and Severus found no reason to complain. All in all, Aria was quite pleased with how her lesson was going.

That was until...

"Oh shiiiiit."

"Language Mr. Lawrence." Severus warned, briefly looking up from his marking.

"Right, sorry sir. But what the fuck am I supposed to do when this thing starts bubbling like crazy." He freaked out, completely ignoring the potions master's warning.

"What?" Aria gasped, only just becoming aware of the situation.

"Yeah like this thing looks likes 'bout to blow, to be honest with you." The seventh year Hufflepuff boy informed nonchalantly.

"Step away from that cauldron students, quickly!" Aria ordered, ushering them to the sides of the classroom.  "You were attempting a wit-sharpening potion, is that correct?"

"Yup."

"I'm afraid there's no saving it now, Mr. Lawrence, the best we can hope for is that it does not turn to acid and burn through bench."

"Out of my way." Severus huffed impatiently, forcing his way through the crowd of students that had formed around the cauldron.

"Pass me that root of ginger" Snape demanded, positioning himself in front of the ever growing cauldron of bubbling green liquid. Aria obeyed hastily, as the professor performed what she could only describe as a miracle on this horrifying concoction. "Some more newt spleens." He requested, holding out a hand expectantly, while the other gripped onto his wand, casting an enchantment over the potion.

The potions master continued adding a bit of this and a dash of that to the potion, all ingredients Aria Dumbledore would never have considered to associate with this particular brew. Jars of herbs, spices and animal parts were passed through the classroom in order to reach Professor Snape who continuously stirred the potion, muttering all sorts of charms and spells.

However skilled Aria had assumed she was at the art of potion making, it was made clear to her that she was no match for Severus' skills, brewing potions was second nature to him now. Within minutes he had achieved what Aria Dumbledore had deemed impossible, and thus the potion was brought back to it's natural state.

"Severus..." The apprentice gawped. "That was amazing."

"That was nothing." He replied curtly, removing himself from the scene. "Everybody back to work, this is not an excuse to slack off."

Still in awe at the pure artistry she had witnessed, Aria trotted sheepishly back to the front of the class.

Blissfully unaware of the pure talent they had just seen, the students continued on with their work. The Hufflepuff boy did not even have the decency to thank his professor for salvaging the mess he called a potion, let alone be grateful he never received a detention, or deduction of house points.

"What are you staring at, Miss Dumbledore, is there no better way you can spend your time?"

"I'm sorry Severus, but that display was just... brilliant." She beamed.

"Like I said, it was nothing. It comes with the job, I refuse to have any of those delinquents burn through my entire store cupboard because they cannot brew a simple potion, a year below their level no less."

"Well, at least we know who definitely won't be winning anyway." Aria giggled.

"The most we can hope for from that boy is that he manages to finish his potion, god knows he'll need it."

Playfully slapping Snape on the arm for his cheek, the witch perched herself on the edge of the professor's desk, attempting a quick sketch on a scrap piece of parchment, while the students begun to finish off their potions.

"Professor Snape, the winner?" Aria asked, turning to her colleague for a verdict once all of the potions had been completed.

"You want me to choose?" Severus replied, skeptical of her offer.

"Of course. I don't think it would be fair of me to do it, considering I've been giving all of them tips this lesson."

"Very well." He droned, stepping forth to analyse the contents of the cauldrons.

"This one." He announced, pointing a single finger to the cauldron of a young Slytherin witch. "Given that it was the only potion brewed to complete perfection, there is no other possible candidate. I suggest the rest of you get studying before your N.E.W.T's exams, at the rate you lot are going, none of you besides Miss Johnstone here is likely to pass." Snape scolded.

"Well then, congratulations Miss Johnstone, you are the winner of a potion of your choice. See me after lessons tomorrow and let me know your decision."

The girl practically beamed with pride, expecting nothing less than first place.

"Class dismissed."

Taglist:

@ayamenimthiriel @lizlil

[ripspaghet]

bff | 06

↳ series m.list | 00 | 01 | 02 | 03 | 04 | 05 | 06 | ongoing

→ pairing: yoongi x reader

→ word count: 5,860

Prologue Summary; Your best friend's boyfriend takes an unhealthy interest in you and just as he shows up something from your past starts to creep up on you again. Could this strange and mysterious man have something to do with it? And should you trust him, or your instincts to run far, far away from him?

→ warnings: angst, swearing, cheating, self hate, trauma

Gone. Gone again. Anytime he feels he's gotten closer to unearthing the melody it slips from his fingertips, like water. It would all be so much easier if he didn't have this desire, this want. Every time it's silent he feels there's this void, something gaping within him, and life begins to feel dismal - yet, he still finds himself here, in this dark and desolate place that doesn't belong to him. A single red light aluminates in the darkness and he's left with no choice but to approach, shatter the glass, and enter. It isn't until screeching alarms pull in attention that he truly realizes that this place is not his own. Invaded. Breached. Ransacked. He's an unwelcome guest - although, these simple facts don't stop him. They pull him in, glass crunching beneath his shoes as he takes a seat. Fear and adrenaline suffocate the darkness looming around him, screaming that he is not wanted. He just needs to remember it. His fingers run along with the ivory keys, the smooth melody of the first five notes flowing into each other, only for an eerie pause of silence to follow. He lets his fingers slip from the keys. It's useless.

A soft echo of notes makes his eyes open.

He turns, looking for where the tune originated - but there's nothing, no one as far as the eye can see in this dense cloud of darkness. Nothing but the alarm filters through.

It's been exactly a day since it happened. The way your nerves are making your heart quake has, if nothing else, increased with time. You've been utterly restless - pacing around your dorm, spacing out while staring at the chipped paint of your white walls, and picking at hangnails excessively. You know you're going to have to face this. Otherwise, the rug will be pulled out from under you when you least expect it. It's safe to say you'd rather be the one pulling the rug, then be the one standing on it, waiting anxiously for your inevitable downfall.

You knock on the door about five times before it finally opens, making way to the threshold beyond it and a pair of pleasantly surprised eyes. Her gaze makes your stomach drop, so you opt for studying the interior details of her apartment. It's spacious and open, natural light pouring in from just about every nook and cranny. It suits her, she's never been one for reciting in the dark - despite her, more often than not, glaring gaze.

"____," She opens the door wider, "I didn't know you were coming, I would've made food if you called. Come in." You oblige, taking off your coat as you enter the apartment, the smell of scented candles, and floral encasing you in a spring time-capsule. You hang your coat on the rack next to the door. "It's been so stressful since the new semester started, we've barely had any time to hang out." You follow her into the kitchen after removing your shoes. "Work has been crazy too, you remember that kid that kept coming in and ripping the flowers off their stems?" She circles the center bar, making her way to the fridge and pulling out a pitcher of what you presume to be tea as she pours it into a glass, "Well, the manager refuses to ban him. He blames me for allowing the kid to destroy our merchandise." She slides the glass to you, "You prefer it cold, right?" She sighs, "That manager, such a prick. I'm really considering quitting if this keeps up." Remaining silent you watch as she fiddles with her own glass as she rambles, "I didn't mean to neglect our friendship or anything. It's just between all this and...Yoongi," Your stomach drops and your ears go fuzzy. You don't hear much of what she says, swearing you're about to barf up the chicken you'd had for lunch not all that long ago. Her voice lowers as if she's afraid someone might be listening in, "He's being so strange, showed up h-"

"Mina, I need to talk to you about something." You don't dare meet her eyes, you keep them downcast on the dewdrops of condensation rising on the glass of your untouched drink. She falls silent, the air around you becoming heavy. With a sigh, you take a seat at the bar but still neglect to touch the tea in front of you. Mina moves to take the seat next to you, still silent, observing your exhausted expression. "Listen, about Yoongi - I don't really know how to say this, so, I'll just say it. He k-"

You're startled into a flinch as fumbling footsteps followed by a loud crash of glass and fuck knows what else, cuts you off. As you turn your head, a lanky body stumbles out of the hallway into the kitchen, their back to you and Mina as a harsh swear makes your breath hitch. Dirt and glass is now spread out across the marble floor in a messy display and Mina moves quickly while you remain in your seat, watching as she rushes with worried words, "Are you okay? Did you cut yourself?" 

As if you hadn't already realized, your eyes nearly bulge out of your head, heart slamming up into your throat as his dark hair falls over his brows and shifts ever so slightly with the tilt of his head, "I'm fine, " His dark eyes never leave you as Mina scans him for injuries, "your plant, not so much."

"I'll get the broom." Mina saunters off, leaving you alone with the source of your guilty conscience - you're dripping with it, a metaphorical layer of sweat against your skin that's almost suffocating.

"____-"

"Don't."

"Got it! Yoongi, hold this for me."

His mouth is quick to clamp shut as he takes the dustpan that's shoved into his chest, his eyes darting away from you, "Yeah, sure."

Mina works quickly as always, swiping the dark potting soil up into the yellow pan that Yoongi holds steady. Nervously, you shift your gaze away from the two and pick up your tea to take a large gulp.

This is going up in flames. How are you supposed to tell her with him here? You don't want to be- No, you shouldn't be caught up in this. You should have never let it happen…

"There," Mina's voice pulls your attention back up, "I'll-"

"No, I've got it." His hand lightly brushes her wrist before he turns to dispose of the dirt. The gesture is small enough to convince you that neither of them really noticed it - just a natural loving touch, nothing unusual - though, it's enough to make you look away again.

"____? Are you alright?"

Your breath hitches and you have to force the hard expression on your face to loosen, "I'm f-fine." They are together, happy, maybe even in love. He hasn't said a word to her about any of it, yet, he wasn't alone in the act. You could've stopped him. You could've pushed him away, should've told him no. She's your best friend and you let him-

"What was it you were saying? Something about Yoon-"

"Nothing," You force a big smile, "I think I was just a bit worried about you. As you said, we haven't made time for each other lately."

"Oh, " Her lips purse, "we should make time for each other soon then."

How selfish are you? Never in your life have you thought of yourself as a horrible person. But now? Your skin is crawling with self-loathe. Every time you meet Mina's gaze your stomach drops - not because of what happened, but because of how it made you feel. The images that run rampant in your head shouldn't be there. It's all the worse that there was no lust driving your actions - there was a deep-rooted desire, an intoxicating burning beneath your skin that makes you dizzy just thinking about it. A passionate fire had dwindled to life beneath your ribcage. It should make you sick. You should be repulsed at the mere thought. "I should get going now. I don't want to intrude on your couple time. I'll see you in class."

"You don't-"

"Call or text if you need me."

The hallway is clustered with people, bumping shoulders with you as you drag yourself along. Maybe it's best you act like it never happened, that Mina remains happy and not miserable knowing the man she is in love with kissed her best friend...and that her best friend allowed it - kissed him back even. And maybe you deserve this dreadful feeling that's swelling inside, growing larger day by lousy day.

You stop abruptly, a student behind you swearing at you for making them walk around. You don't know why you've stopped, don't know what urges you to turn your head but, never the less, you do. You blink at the letters next to the door. Shifting your weight from one foot to the other, you peek through the small door window. It's tantalizing, filling you with more anger than any remorse. You let this thing, this object, control you. Your every move and action revolves around running from it and for what?

Before you can convince yourself otherwise you're yanking the door open and marching in, heading straight for the ivory keys sat on the opposite side of the music room. How could you be afraid of something so ridiculous? It's pathetic. You plop down on the bench, eyes set to kill as your fingers naturally fall into the correct posture. And with a soft and steady exhale of air, your fingers slowly ignite, brushing along the keys with a fevered nostalgia.

'Prélude no.25 in C sharp minor, Op.45', a piece you once knew like the back of your hand. The memories of it still linger fresh in your mind, so much so that your hands could flow with the smoothness of the lilting notes even in your sleep. Your turmoil seems to whip and lash at your fingertips like a ravenous animal as the song crescendos, the tempo increasing with veracity and then it cuts through you, a sharp pain traveling up your right wrist and you yank your hands away. The room falls silent, nothing but the sounds of birds chirping outside and the wind whistling. Your eyes sting with unshed tears and you can't help but slam your foot into the floor out of frustration.

"____?"

Your breath catches in your throat, fear falling in the pit of your stomach as you turn your head.

"What are you doing in here?"

The sight of Jimin's blonde hair and worried eyes only calms you a little. You'd worried that maybe someone else had found you here, but it being him wasn't exactly any better. "I just-" You turn to look back down at the piano, your brows knit together, "I don't know."

"Come on," Jimin is quick to make his way over to you, yet you don't turn back to face him - even when he wraps his hand around your wrist and gently pulls it up to inspect, "you shouldn't do this to yourself." You turn slowly, reluctant to face anyone at such a vulnerable moment, but you manage to frown at him as the pad of his thumb traces soothing patterns into your skin. His hair is swept neatly across his forehead, a soft smile plays on his lips that doesn't meet his eyes, "Does it still hurt?"

"It hurts every day, Jimin." You turn away, "You know that."

"You're strong ____."

You flinch, not expecting him to say that, of all things.

"After everything that's happened, I've never known you to give up. So, stop putting yourself down." He pauses, coming to sit beside you but never letting your wrist go, "I know you can't play anymore, but your talent doesn't just exist within a piano. It's a lot more than that." Still refusing to meet his gaze, you begin picking at a hangnail, "Here," He lets your hand go and you briefly glance over to see what he's doing just as he holds a small yellow sucker out to you, "it's lemon flavored."

You glance down at the thing held up to your face, "Why-"

"You like lemonade, right?" He smiles, eyes twinkling, "Hurry and take it, we have to get to class before you're late again."

You snatch the candy from him, sniffling in annoyance, "What am I? A five-year-old?"

"You don't have to be a child to enjoy the sweeter things in life."

You abruptly plop down into your chair between Mina and Jimin, exhaling dramatically as you do. If only it'd all been a dream and you could just forget it. How many times have you thought that now? Were you in the Hundreds now? Thousands?

"Everything alright?"

Like clockwork, you sputter nervously under Mina's gaze, "Ah, yeah, just tired. Must be insomnia or something."

"Insomnia?" Jimin raises an eyebrow and tilts his head to look at you, "Do you have that?"

"Yes? No? Maybe? I'm not a doctor. Where is the professor?" Both of them turn their attention to the front of the class, seemingly not taking notice of your jumpy behavior. Though, you're sure Jimin did. He just knew when it was time to leave you be.

"Oh, that, " Mina nibbles on her bottom lip to keep herself from smiling, "Professor Lee caught some nasty bug over the weekend."

"I fail to see why that would make you smile like a little school girl that just wet herself."

She scowls at Jimin, "The professor asked a former student of his to teach the class until he returns."

What?

"Oh, wow, so Loverboy is subbing just so he can stare at your toxic face all day? I don't buy it. He must be into guys."

"Excuse me?"

You think you're about to vomit up your breakfast.

"He finds me cute and couldn't get enough."

"He absolutely does not!"

Please, for the love of all that's good in this world.

"Told me himself."

"Stop making shit up, Park!"

"As soon as you stop buzzing in my ear, you fly."

"I am not a fly! You-"

The classroom door slams and you jump in your seat, making both Jimin and Mina turn to you questioningly as you squeeze your eyes shut in denial. Slow footsteps make their way to the front of the lecture hall and the echo of them makes you cringe.

There is absolutely no way the universe hates you enough to-

"Hello, my name is Min Yoongi, a music producer and a former student of Professor Lee's. Unfortunately, the Professor is bedridden and has asked me to substitute for the time being, let's get along well."

Never mind, the universe doesn't hate you - it loathes you. You'd think that after everything you'd have no trouble avoiding him. Hell, you thought that he'd do the same, but you suppose Min Yoongi isn't going to be giving you any breaks anytime soon.

You let your head fall from your hands and slam into the desk beneath you with a concerningly loud thud.

"Woah, are you alright?" Jimin places a hand on your shoulder and you miserably slug away from him.

"Don't touch me."

The class drags on like a snail and you've sat here long enough to, staring at a head of dark hair, try to hex the man it belongs to about a thousand times - give or take. You've yet to see a beehive fall from the ceiling and send him running home though.

When the bell finally does ring you're not even granted the semblance of running out yourself as Mina cuts you off, "I'm having my birthday party early this year."

"Oh, really? When is it?" You keep your head down as the two of you mosey along, closer and closer to the front of the classroom.

"Tomorrow at my place."

You nod, more focused on escape than anything else.

"It was going to be on my birthday week, but Yoongi and I made plans together for the day of my birthday. We're going to-"

"That's great Mina. I'm sure the two of you will have a great time together." You force a smile as if your life depends on it, "Say, what time is the party?"

"Oh," Mina laughs with realization as you inwardly sigh with relief at the welcomed change of subject, "it's at eight."

"Great."

Mina bounces over to the exit with excitement, "You'll be there?"

"Of course." You force another smile as you follow after her.

Almost there, almost home free.

"Great, I'll see you then."

You nod again at the threshold, watching as Mina waves back to you.

"____, I need to speak with you."

You freeze, a deadly chill rushing down your spine. "No, thanks." You wave behind you, not turning back as you continue with your escape.

"It's about your test."

You freeze again, your eye twitching at your lack of luck today, "I'm in a real rush, I can't-"

"Come here, now."

Fuck the universe, that vindictive bitch. 

Reluctantly, you turn and make your way back towards the center of the desk you had passed by with ease not all that long ago, "You failed your last test. Professor Lee informed me that you need to retake it, or you'll fail this class."

You keep your eyes directed on the wall behind him, not once sparing him a proper glance, "Okay, I'll find a tutor and-"

"There's no available tutors, because it's exam season. I told Professor Lee I'd handle this, so I'll be teaching you."

Your eyes are quick to dart to his now, "No!"

His fingers tap against the desk and they draw your attention as his eyes narrow in on you, "This has nothing to do with-" He pauses, letting out a steady breath of air and you lift your gaze back to his. Rather than being irritated or annoyed, as you expect, your surprised to find that he looks super uncomfortable, maybe even anxious, "our relationship outside of this room. And might I remind you that this test is half this semester's grade. You'll only fail again without proper help." You grit your teeth, holding back your protests. You hate to admit this, but he's right - again. "Starting next week come here after you've finished all your classes. I will be in the office grading papers. And-" He slides something across the desk to you, "your laptop, you left it."

You grab your laptop quickly before turning to leave, all the while not uttering another word to Yoongi.

The bathroom mirror is fogged over completely - except for a small spot that you've whipped at in order to dab foundation onto your neck, thoroughly painting over the purple and yellow discoloration on your skin. You juggle with your phone in your other hand, holding it to your ear, "I just- hear me out?"

"Why should I? I don't like her, so the answer is no. End of conversation."

"Please? I don't want to go alone."

"Why not? It's not like it's going to be a fun party. Doubt there will even be alcohol."

"You-"

"Get out of here already!"

"Shit," You begin shoving your makeup back into your bag, fumbling with your phone in the process.

"Listen, I know you've been having a hard time lately but there's no way in hell I'm-"

"Fine! Don't go! It's not like I need you there or anything!" You slam the bathroom door shut behide you, sure to piss off your roommate, who is washing shampoo from her hair.

"Don't be like that, ____. You know she wouldn't even want me-" Throwing your bag over your shoulder you pull the phone away from your ear and hang up. After all the things Jimin has put you through, he can't even do you the smallest of favors. You stomp over to your dorm room door, storming out into the hallway, and down the stairs. You shove the glass door to your complex open, letting the cold wind blow tangles into your freshly brushed hair as you stride toward the Lift driver that's been waiting for you at the curb for the past thirty minutes. Under normal circumstances, you'd apologize to the driver for making them wait, but as you've established, time and time again, these are not normal circumstances. As you buckle your seat belt the driver takes off, drifting at about thirty on the speedometer.

A heavy sigh falls off your lips and you lean your head against the window as the first ticks of rain make contact with the transparent glass. Your phone buzzes in your lap and you glance down at it. You half expected it to be a text from Jimin, although the notification is from an unknown number.

Message from Unknown Number-8:32pm: Let me make up for lost time. Please, answer your phone.

You begin typing only to be cut off by another buzz.

Message from Unknown Number-8:33pm: Don't try telling me I've got the wrong number. Jimin gave it to me.

You scowl down at the small screen before abruptly turning off your phone. You curse Jimin as you shove the phone into your bag.

"Thought you said you weren't going to come."

He fiddles with the ends of his hair, all the while avoiding your gaze, "Well, Jungkook agreed to come along so-"

"You can be a real jerk sometimes, you know that?"

Sighing, Jimin leans against his younger friend, but Jungkook's attention seems to lie elsewhere as he completely ignores the two of you, "You know how I feel about Mina."

"Yeah," You turn to see what's got Jungkook so preoccupied, "and you know how I feel about parties." Across the room you spot Mina and Yoongi. The two are conversing rather aggressively and you inhale sharply, barely managing to remind yourself that it's normal for Mina to blow things out of proportion and it's probably nothing. You don't need to worry. You force your attention back to Jimin.

"I have no idea how you feel about anything nowadays. You're-"

"I swear I'm never doing anything for that she-devil again."

You turn to see a rather annoyed Seokjin now standing behind Jungkook, with a large birthday cake in hand. 

Raising an eyebrow, you tilt your head, "What are you doing here?"

He looks away from Jungkook, who is now laughing at his elder's misfortune, "I was conned."

"Ah," You nod and point at the cake, "she made you bake that?"

Jimin shakes his head, "What a shame you let her walk all over you."

"Yeah," Seokjin rolls his eyes before glaring over in Mina's direction, "it's too quiet in here. I'm going to start some music."

You watch Seokjin make his way over to a speaker and then leave for the kitchen. The smell of birthday cake tickles your nose now as the sound of soft pop music lulls the small crowd of people in the apartment space.

"God, this is boring."

"Beyond boring."

Those two seem to be unable to keep their moping to themselves since you arrived, although you haven't paid them all that much attention. You're more concerned with how you're going to avoid eating cake later on. You hate overly sweet things with a passion and Mina's cake is sure to taste like a sugar rush.

"We should liven it up a bit."

"Sounds like a plan to me."

"How about it ____?" You drag your gaze away from a frowning Mina to glance over at Jimin, who's holding a plate full of crumbs that were previously covered in chips. Jungkook stands next to him, bordly munching on some handmade snack you couldn't remember the name of. The two of them refused to stay anywhere that wasn't right beside the snack table. You guessed since there wasn't any alcohol, they were making do with what's available.

"Can you two behave until the candles are blown out? I don't wanna hear Mina yelling until I've already told her my excuse to leave."

Jungkook nods, "Understandable,"

"I suppose I'll wait."

You just want to go home and get some more sleep, you couldn't care less what these two goons had up their sleeves. Yes, you want Mina to have a good birthday, but you can only maintain your act for so long while around her. Faking isn't your strong suit.

"Oh, God,"

"Wha-Oh,"

You glance back over at the two of them to see that they're staring across the room. Jimin is frowning, while Jungkook looks as if his whole life is flashing before his eyes. You turn to see what it is, only to find yourself wishing you never did.

"____! There you are! You sly fox, you. I've been looking for you everywhere."

Your stomach drops, "Who told him?"

Jimin scowls as his friend makes his way over to you, "It definitely wasn't me."

"Sorry, ____. He promised me he wouldn't come if I told him." Jungkook scoots away from you out of fear of your wrath.

The guy approaching you is quick to move to your side, placing an arm around your waist. You're sure to send Jungkook the deadliest of glares that has him cowering behind a now, rather aggravated Jimin.

"Tae, what are you doing here?" You almost choke as you force a smile onto your face.

He pulls you closer to him, a smirk playing on his lips, "I heard from a little birdy that you'd be here." 

As a strong urge to knee Jungkook in the crouch starts to settle in, you grit your teeth, forcing yourself to bear it and not cause a scene.

"Yah, Taehyung, who do you think you are, clinging to my best friend like that?" Jimin's brows have shot up in question as he stares Taehyung down with accusing eyes.

His arm doesn't leave you, though you can feel him stiffen under Jimin's intimidating gaze, "I-"

"If you want your dick sucked find some other girl to do it."

Taehyung frowns, "Jimin, I'm not-"

"Taehyung, " You pat his shoulder, gaining the attention of all three boys' in the process, "how about you go get me a drink from the kitchen?"

He looks back and forth between you and Jimin, slightly suspicious before nodding, and heading off.

Jimin scoffs, "The nerve of him."

"I'm going to get some fresh air. Tell him I went to the restroom or something. Also, try to keep from fighting. Like I said earlier-"

"Yeah, yeah, you don't want to ruin Mina's birthday party. Blah, blah, blah."

"Jimin," You glare, "I'm serious."

"Alright, " He groans, rolling his eyes, "I'll stop. Just go before that horny baboon gets back and tries humping your leg."

You roll your eyes but nod never the less. Jungkook whispers another sorry to you as you walk past them towards the apartment door. You only wave him off, not caring enough to bother with his inability to keep a secret. You're too tired and honestly just wish you could go home. You mean, you could go home with the excuse of, "I started feeling sick." Which wouldn't be a complete lie - thanks to Taehyung. You know Mina wouldn't fall for it though.

Luckily, her apartment is on the bottom floor and it doesn't take you long to make your way outside. The warmth from the building's heater almost seems to melt off your skin in the chilled air. It's only around dinner time, but you suspect the sun has begun to set behind the rain clouds, due to the darkness that has started settling over the city. Your steps are small as you watch your breath puff out into a cold cloud passed your chapped lips. Fiddling with the sucker that still rests in your pocket, you shut your eyes and listen to the downpour that assaults the sidewalk. You hadn't planned on being so weak, so vulnerable. After all these years you'd hoped that maybe you would've grown stronger by now - but you feel weaker than ever.

An exaggerated sigh startles you and your eyes snap open. 

His back is to you as rain showers down onto the awning above, black shoes resting in a puddle on the curb of the street as he stares at cars zipping by. You've never noticed before, but the rainy weather compliments his skin. You find your eyes lingering on the pads of his fingers and the blue veins below red knuckles - a perfect contrast of colors. Really, you know better than to approach him. You know better than to go anywhere near him - but, knowing better doesn't stop you from making your way over to him with a misplaced sense of determination as he reaches into his pocket, nor does it keep you from plopping down next to him as he places the retrieved object between his velvety lips.

He pauses his actions to glance over at you curiously. You frown at him before reaching up and plucking the purple lighter from his left hand, "What are you-"

You shove the lighter into your pocket, exchanging it with your sucker. You know you'll never eat it, might as well put it to good use. You hold it out to him, "You should replace bad habits with healthy habits."

He turns away with a scoff, nibbling on his lower lip - an obvious attempt to keep himself from smiling, "That isn't particularly healthy."

You glance at the sucker, "No, but it's better than what you had before." Nudging the candy into his now empty hand you purse your lips.

Reluctantly, he takes the cigarette away from his mouth and slides it back into its pack, "So, you're talking to me again?"

"No," You stare at him as his long fingers unwrap the yellow sucker and plop it into his mouth.

"Then what do you call this?"

You look away, opting to stare at the wet asphalt and listen to the constant pitter-patter of the rain, "Why were you and Mina fighting?"

Silence falls over the two of you for a moment before he sighs and rolls the stick of the sucker along his tongue, "She wants me here while I need to be elsewhere."

"It's her birthday party."

"Yeah," He snaps, eye sharpening as they flicker over to you, "I told her a month before she planned it what days I'd have work. She did this on purpose."

"Why would she-"

"Because she thinks I'm cheating on her with my coworker." The words are spat bitterly, the sound of the sucker cracking between the tension of his teeth. Your lips clamp shut and you look away from him. Why are you getting involved? You're only making things messier for yourself. "She's not all that wrong, though. I guess I deserve this."

Your head whips back over, "W-what? Are you cheating with a coworker?"

He turns to look at you, brows furrowed, "What? No, I-" He pauses then shakes his head, deciding against it and laughs, "Why are you here ____?"

You glance around, "I-Uh-Mina said I had to come and I-"

His head tips forward, dark hair falling over his lashes, "No, why are you here, with me."

"Oh," You watch the rain as it begins to slow, "I'm not sure."

"Thought you hated me."

"I should." You grit your teeth in annoyance.

"But you don't." Rather than it being a question, it's more of a statement, as if he already knows exactly how you feel.

You don't say a word, you just blink over at his side profile, heart thudding against your ribcage.

He sighs, turning to look at you, "You and I, I know it isn't good. I know I should stay away from you and you do the same to me...but," His dark eyes trace your features, as if trying to memorize them, "I don't think-"

"Jimin! You asshole! Get out! You were never invited for this exact reason!" 

You both turn to see Jimin stumbling out of the apartment complex, Mina hot on his heels, "It's not my fault your party was boring!"

Shit.

"Shut up!" She lands a solid slap that echoes off the back of Jimin's neck and through the rainy streets.

"Fuck! Jungkook! Do something she's touched me! I'm infected!"

Jungkook isn't far behind the pair, seeing as a second later he's the next person to rush out onto the sidewalk. Mina shoves Jimin's chest and he barks with laughter as he stumbles back, "Are you a child?!"

"Sure, if that's what you want me to be."

"Jimin, come on, stop. ____ said to-"

"____ said what?! Is she the one who brought you?!"

Shit.

"What? No, I-"

Next to burst through the door is Taehyung, who is quick to step in between Mina and Jimin, "Really sorry about all this Mina. I'll escort Jimin home."

"You?!" Jimin laughs dryly, "Why? So you can have another go at ____?"

Taehyung's brows crease as he opens his mouth to speak, but when he glances over to see you sitting on the curb he shifts gears, "____! There you are!"

Fuck.

All of their heads turn to you, Jimin raising an eyebrow, Jungkook looking confused, and Mina narrowing her eyes at you as she assesses the fact that her boyfriend is sitting next to you.

"The fuck are you doing out here?" You can tell that her question is directed at Yoongi, only by the small shift of her eyes. Yoongi simply shakes his head and turns away to watch the cars again. 

Somewhere in all the commotion, Taehyung had made his way over to you, seeing as when he plops down next to you and snakes an arm around your waist you flinch, "Is this where you've been hiding?"

"For the love of God, Taehyung, if you don't-"

Jimin is cut off when Yoongi stands up, pulling you with him by the wrist, and glaring at Taehyung in such a way that he freezes on the curb - hands kept to himself. You fidget at the feeling of Yoongi's cold fingers wrapped around your wrist, holding your breath.  The group turns dead silent before you eventually pull away from Yoongi, taking your wrist back, "Taehyung, please take Jimin home."

"What?!" Jimin squawks at you, "You said you needed me-"

"And I should've just asked Jungkook instead." You're quick to cut Jimin off, glaring at him as if he'd just stepped on your toe.

"I can't believe this. I literally-"

"Aw, poor Park. First time getting dumped on a sidewalk?"

"Shut up!" The snarl takes all of you by surprise, even Mina takes a step back, mouth clamping shut.

"Jimin,"

Jimin's eyes shift back to you, flickering over to Taehyung, then Yoongi before settling back on you, "Are you going to tell me what's going on with you?"

"What's going on with me?" You scoff, "You're joking, right?"

"Well, other than the usual shit show you have going on." His words are harsh and they catch all of you off guard for a second time. Jimin tends to be blunt when he needs to be, yes, but never harsh, "I'm fed up, ____. You won't talk to me. You're just bottling it all up. You can't expect anything the change if you-"

"You're the one who gave Hoseok my number!"

.

.

.

a/n: sorry it took me so long to post and that this is kinda filler🙇‍♀️ but it's the start of some character development and the conflict is raising so it's about get crazy real soon👀😳

@team-work-made-the-dream-work @seokchella @crackhead1-800 @chogiyeol-utopia @thatchampagnebitch @jeonchan26  @loveyoongles @ghoularaki @team-wang-puppy

To be tagged send an ask 🍬🚬

[strsburn]

sounds perfect

sounds perfect

summary : reader not only gets a surprise birthday party but a date with her longtime crush Peter Parker, could this day get any better?

see also : reader has the best birthday yet.

pairing : peter parker x female!stark reader

genre : fluff

words : 836+

side notes : this one shot is dedicated to my good friend whom I call, Mer @marvelsswansong. Happy Birthday Mer, I love you and hope you have an amazing 18th birthday. ________________________________________

"Well, look who finally decided to wake up. I'd call you sleeping beauty, but the beauty part seems a little bit far fetched right now." You half heartedly sent a glare your dad's way as you made your way to the counter top, taking a seat begrudgingly while a plate of buttery pancakes was slid your way. 

"Fight me, dad. I don't care that you're Tony Stark, I'll fight you right now." You held up your fork as if to show you meant business but Tony only chuckled, reaching over to ruffle your hair. Much like he did when you were seven.

"Hmm, cranky and violent in the morning. You are your father's daughter." Your fake glare turned into a warm smile as you looked up at your dad.

"I love you dad."

"Love you too, pumpkin. Now hurry up and get ready for school. Just cause it's your birthday doesn't mean you get to be late." With a grin, you hugged your dad tight and headed for your bedroom.

________________________________________

"Y/n! Wait up!" You turned at the familiar voice as you reached your locker, smiling when you saw your best friend and your dad's intern, Peter Parker.

"Hey Pete, what's up?" You asked. 

He smiled at you, skidding to a stop as he ran his hand through his hair nervously.

"Right, so uh, I know we had plans today to go to that new comic book store around the block but I- uh Mr. Stark has something he needs me to do, so I can't make it. I'm sorry." He rushed out causing you to frown. You didn't remember your father mentioning anything about it.

"But-"

"Sorry, I gotta go. Don't want to be late to chemistry." Before you could say anything more, Peter took off leaving you confused. 

"-It's my birthday." You finished quietly. Frowning you grabbed the rest of your books and headed for English. 

_________________________________________

"Hello? Dad?" You called out hoping to hear from someone. School had just ended and you were looking forward to spending some time with your dad on your birthday, hoping to forget some of the stress from school, as you had been assigned a shit load of homework. 

When all you were met with was silence you huffed, heading for the living room where you could sulk and maybe catch up on some new episodes of Miraculous Ladybug. 

You headed for the living room calling out to F.R.I.D.A.Y. as you did. 

"Hey Friday, turn on the lights for me would you?"

"Surprise!" You jumped as the lights switched on revealing your dad and all the avengers as they stood with smiles on their faces a "Happy Birthday Mini Stark" written sloppily across a banner that hung from the ceiling. 

"What? Oh my God, you guys." You teared up as you spotted Peter and your father at the front of the group, both wearing wide grins on their faces. 

"Dad? This was your idea wasn't it?" You accused with a smile. 

"Actually, pumpkin. This was all underoos' idea." He patted Peter on the back, causing the boy to burn a bright red. 

"W-well I wouldn't say it was all my idea, I mean, Mr. Stark-"

Before he could ramble on you rushed forward, bringing your arms around him causing him to stumble as he put a hand hesitantly around your back. 

"Thank you, Pete." You gave him a kiss on the cheek, watching as he turned shy, mumbling a quiet "you're welcome."

"Alright underoos, you can let go of my daughter now." Peter pulled back so fast you were surprised be didn't snap his neck. He turned to face your father, his eyes wide and cheeks void of color. 

"S-sorry, Mr. Stark.I-your daughter just gives really nice hugs and-" Tony rolled his eyes patting Peter on the shoulder.

"Calm down, spider-ling. You like my daughter, she likes you, so there's nothing I can do about that. But if you hurt her, I promise you I will activate instant kill." Both you and Peter blushed, as your father chuckled before leaving the two of you alone.

"Well, that wasn't how I planned to tell you, I liked you." Peter mumbled after a few moments of silence. 

You turned to him, eyes shining bright.

"So, seeing as we both like each other. When will you be picking me up, Parker?" Peter turned to you, eyebrow raised in confusion.

"Picking you up?" 

"Yes, for our date." You giggled. Peter fumbled for his phone, pulling up the calendar app. 

"I- how about t-tomorrow at eight? I'll take you to Delmar's for a nice sandwich and t-then we could go for a swing around the rooftops?" He gulped, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. 

You smiled, reaching over to give him a light peck on the corner of his lips.

"Sounds perfect." You winked before walking off, not missing the small fist pump and little skip Peter did, from the corner of your eye. 

Best birthday ever. 

[ot7-hoes]

Masterlist

Word Count: 3777

Summary: Things rarely happen during the night shift, but tonight, it seems like the whole world is ending. Well, only according to my neighbor.

It was a night like any other. After 1am people rarely came into the small shop to get anything, be it food, drinks or other things they found here. Therefore I often had some peace until the end of my shift, which wasn’t until morning at 6 o’clock. It was exactly the same now. I had just said goodbye to the last customer and let myself fall on the small stool that always stood behind the counter. A quick look at the small digital clock next to the cash register told me that it was just after 1. If someone stormed into the store now, the world really had to be ending. And by that I didn’t mean a miniscule storm, but something bigger. Like a nuclear war between Trump and North Korea or the outbreak of the zombie apocalypse.

For a short moment I closed my eyes and enjoyed the silence. As long as you could call the buzzing of the refrigerated counters and the quiet music coming out of the speakers silence. I had become so accustomed to the constant background noises that they almost had a calming effect on me. Every now and then the flickering neon tube above the candy shelf attracted my attention. Not a soul was to be seen far and wide. The view I had from around the heated counters for the baked goods, onto the small side street confirmed this. At this time of day a lone car rarely drove here and if one ever did, then mostly only to avoid the idiotically operated traffic lights of the main streets.

I sat down normally again and dug out my papers to study. I did that almost every night shift I had. One of the reasons why I really couldn’t understand why each of my colleagues avoided the night shift. Unlike during the day, it was always quiet, because exciting things rarely happened during the night shifts. I was almost always able to concentrate on learning, and I hardly ever had to deal with annoying customers or noisy children. Usually they brought up the argument that I could also learn at home and should spend the nights sleeping. But the big difference was that I wasn’t paid at home also I didn’t sleep at home anyways, when I was spending the nights learning. Besides, a student knows no sleep during the Finals week. It’s basically an unwritten law. Thus this argument was also void. Therefore I preferred to be paid for learning. >Okay, let’s have a look.< I thought to myself before I buried my nose in my anatomy book.

The loud ringing of the bell above the shop door, which had been violently torn open, tore me away from my notes. Frightened, I flinched and automatically looked at the small digital clock next to me. The small display showed shortly after 3. At this time there really must have been a nuclear war outside or the zombie apocalypse must have broken out, otherwise I couldn’t explain the heavy steps and heavy breathing, which echoed through the shop. I could hardly see anybody from my position. This was also due to the fact that the heated counter blocked my view of most of the shop. The unknown person seemed to have stopped because the steps had ceased. But now the whirring of one of the refrigerated counters became louder, a sure indicator that he had opened one of the doors. Slowly the situation scared me a little and I hoped that I would not be asked for the entire contents of the cash register in a few seconds. But wasn't there a first time for everything? A very loud >>Fuck! << let me flinch again, the fridge door being slammed in annoyance. Cautiously I got up and peered as well as I could over the shelves, while from the back of the shop an indefinable long strand of curses came floating towards me. So if one really intended to rob me now, whoever it was, was on the completely wrong side of the shop, since all you could find back there was milk in every variation. On the other hand though, if he really intended to steal milk I would definitely worry about the average salary of our society, because milk was really not expensive.

I timidly took a step out of my cover and continued to spy across the shelves. Apart from a black mop of hair I couldn't see anything. Gathering all my courage, I spoke up, not leaving the protection of my counter. >>Can I help you in any way? << Surprisingly, my voice trembled less than I expected. Quite contrary to my hands which were shaking uncontrollably. The black head shot up jerkily and looked over the shelves at me. I resisted my initial instinct to jump behind the counter again to hide and took a step forward to make myself more visible. >>Y/n? << It suddenly came quite confused from the unknown gentleman. My heart was racing now. Although I knew the voice, I couldn’t immediately identify it because of my nervousness. My instinct took over when the stranger came out behind the shelves and let me take another step back behind the desk.

A wave of relief washed over me when I saw who had stormed into the store. >>Jungkook? << I asked just as confused as he was while leaning against the shelf behind me, completely ignoring that I had just successfully knocked over everything on it and exhaled deeply. >>My God you scared me. Can’t you come into a shop like a normal person? << I grumbled at my neighbour and raked my hand through my hair. However, it didn’t seem to interest the black haired guy in any way that he had just almost given me a heart attack, because he came running towards the counter with quick steps and almost threw himself over it to reach for my wrists. A little surprised by the sudden contact I stiffened briefly, but he didn’t even seem to notice that. >>Y/n...I have a problem. A very big problem even. << Almost automatically my eyes wandered to his crotch. So either his problem wasn’t as big as he said or his sweatpants did an extremely good job of hiding it. I felt the heat rising into my cheeks as he put his hand on my cheek and gently stroked it. >>It’s really important that you help me with this, ok? << he spoke now as his eyes wandered over my face. However, his tone of voice irritated me a little. If he really wanted me to suck his dick, he should stop beating around the bush about it.

A snap in front of my face brought me back to reality. I felt my face take on the colour of an overripe tomato. >>I have no time for your thirsty ass because my ass is thirty too. << he exclaimed not making the situation any clearer for my brain. >>For Banana milk! <<< he groaned at me, this time visibly tense. Either he could read my mind or I had just undressed him with my eyes. Since I strongly doubted the former, I had to be satisfied with the latter. Much to my embarrassment. At that moment I wished for nothing more than the ground to open up and devour me. I would even prefer the zombie apocalypse. I would even voluntarily throw myself into Zombietrumps arms and present myself as a willing victim to get out of this embarrassment. A little confused, I blinked at him, while Jungkook moved from one leg to the other. >>Do you still have any in stock or not? << he asked with a little more emphasis and nodded his head towards the fridges. >>What do we still have in stock? << I asked more confused than before and looked at him like a deer in the headlight. >>Banana milk! << he almost yelled now, leaning over the counter even further, if at all possible. In the meantime he had placed his hands on the counter top to support himself a little further while his face was hovering a few centimeters in front of mine, his eyes looking at me insistently.>>Please Y/n...<< his voice was now nothing more than a pleading whisper. With big eyes he looked at me. Under normal circumstances, I would now ask the customer to keep a little more distance, but under my neighbour’s intense stare I couldn’t get a single useful word out. For a few seconds we just stared at each other, while I, for my part, tried to reconnect my tongue to my brain, and him obviously waiting for an answer. Just as I was about to open my mouth again to tell him that if there wasn’t any left the fridge I would have to look in the stockroom, since my brain was thank god already that far, the bell above the shop door distracted me again. Jungkook didn’t move an inch when I tried to look past his extremely muscular, broad form. >>Y/n? << a voice I knew all too well called out. >>Are you there? << I looked back at the black haired one in front of me, who still stared me down with an unaltered forceful gaze. Steps echoed through the store and approached the counter. >>Jimin? << I asked mentally thanking my brain for re- establishing the connection to my vocal chords in time. I was given a relieved breath as an answer. When he finally appeared in my field of vision he stopped abruptly. >>Do you know him Y/n? Is he bothering you? << my fellow student asked anxiously and came a little closer. Typically Jimin.

I had met him during one of my lectures. At that time we had sat next to each other for almost half a year, but none of us had made any attempts to start a conversation. Until the day I had fallen asleep on the table completely knocked out. The two nights before that had been spent with studying only so I had been running exclusively on coffee. Apparently I had complained in my sleep about the curriculum. Jimin, the angel he was, had fortunately woken me up before more people around us could hear my ramblings.

How it became us suddenly going out for a coffee every day after university and then spending the afternoons or evenings together, I hadn't quite figured out yet. Regardless, because I liked him I didn’t worry too much about the how. At some point he had started to visit me at night on my shifts, after he had found out about my job. Most of the times he payed me a visit we used the time to learn together or just to talk a little.

I just pieced together an answer as Jungkook cut me off this time. He whirled around and looked at the blonde. >>No Hyung! Nothing is ok! I have a serious problem! For days I haven't been doing anything else than learning and now the worst of all emergencies has happened: << he took a short break and inhaled deeply. >>I don’t have Banana milk anymore! How am I supposed to study now? << Now I was completely confused >>Wait...you know each other? << I asked no one in particular. Jimin nodded before he looked at Jungkook urgently. >>When was the last time you slept? << he asked, honest worry etched into his features. Jungkook looked at him as if the older one had just suggested a Threesome on the counter. I wouldn’t say no to that, since both men looked extremely good even though it would take a little bit of convincing. >>Is it important when I slept the last time? << he avoided the question. >>I currently have a much bigger problem. I. Don’t. Have. Any. Banana. Milk. Left. << he said and spoke each word accentuated slowly.

Jungkook turned back to me. By now he was looking like he was about to have a nervous breakdown. Jimin’s face, on the other hand, showed a mixture of deep concern and pure amusement. At least he looked exactly like I felt inside. >>I’d have to go to the storeroom to see if we still have any left. << I finally said what I had been trying to say for a good few minutes now. >>Were there no more on the back shelf? << I asked the standard question. Although I was very aware of the fact that he probably wouldn’t be standing here in front of me, begging to get the milk if it was still on the shelf, it was just a habitual question. Now Jungkook looked at me as if I had just told him that I liked Jimin’s unspoken orgy idea.

Looking for help he turned to Jimin who was too busy trying not to laugh. >>Don’t you think I would have disappeared into my study hell long ago if I had found some in that damn refrigerated shelf? << he groaned quite desperately. I bit my lower lip to stifle a smile and shook my head. >>Y/n...please...it’s really important. Otherwise I can’t continue studying and if I don’t study then I fail and if I fail my parents are incredibly disappointed in me because they would have expected something better and if my parents are disappointed in me I don’t know what to do anymore and... << His flood of words was interrupted by Jimin looking at him with his eyebrow raised. >>Now take it down a notch, Kook. You act as if the whole world is going down because of your banana milk. << He only got a sulking Jungkook as an answer. I just nodded silently and quickly disappeared to the back of the store.

In the storeroom I shook my head laughing. He probably just exaggerated the situation. It was a bit amusing what some finals could make out of us poor students.

I quickly managed to find what I was looking for, finishing the trip to the storage room. With the desired milk on my arm I went back to the sales room. Jungkook was running restlessly up and down in the counter area, while Jimin sat relaxed on the counter top typing on his mobile phone. I decided to let my stressed neighbour fidget a little longer and hid behind one of the shelves. A few seconds passed in which Jungkook continued to run up and down until Jimin was fed up with it. >>You look like you’re about to have a complete breakdown and your last resort is this stupid banana milk. << he deadpanned and looked at the black-haired guy over his phone. Jungkook glared at the blonde. >>That’s easy for you to say. I know you’ve already finished your finals. But maybe I should ask Y/n what you look like when you’re close to  them. << he snapped at the older one and I bit my lower lip to avoid giggling. Jungkook wasn't completely wrong. Jimin could look a lot worse when we were close to the finals. To be honest, I’ve never seen a person who could be so stressed over a test like Jimin was. Well, except Jungkook. >>Where do you know each other from? << Jungkook asked changing the subject. He dropped himself cross-legged to the ground. Apparently he had given up trying to demolish the floor. Jimin shrugged. >>She sits next to me in my main lectures. At some point she fell asleep on the table and complained very energetically about the subject matter. I finally woke her up before the whole course heard her tirade of abuse. << Jungkook chuckled quietly. >>And you? << Jimin asked him the counter question. Jungkook leaned back, supporting his weight on his hands. I was able to see his biceps flexing under the short sleeves of his shirt. >>She is my neighbour. << he answered briefly. The only thing that made it clear that the young man was still under tension was his restlessly wobbly leg and his eyes that were continuously darting in the direction I had disappeared before. >>How long does it take her to find this damn milk? << he grumbled, now and stretched out a little hoping to get a better look through the open storage room door. Again Jimin shrugged. >>When was the last time you had sex? << The blonde suddenly asked bluntly. Jungkook looked at him completely stunned and also caught me off guard with the question. Jimin meant his question completely seriously, since no mockery could be found in his voice. Almost synchronously both Jungkook and I raised an eyebrow. >>Honestly, sex is my least concern at the moment. If you haven’t noticed yet, I’ll write my finals next week, haven’t slept for 3 days and live on banana milk and coffee. << Now Jimin also raised an eyebrow. >>As long as you don’t pour the milk into the coffee. << My neighbour remained suspiciously silent for a few seconds. >>Why do you even ask that so bluntly? << he asked after a few seconds and looked critically at Jimin, who only gave a slight chuckle. >>Forgot that I'm a med student? Sex helps to reduce stress and helps to relax. You need both badly. You could also masturbate, because what counts in the end is the orgasm. << The blonde took a dramatic break. Jungkook looked at him a little disparagingly. I, on the other hand, couldn’t resist a grin. It was so incredibly typical for Jimin to come up with ideas like that, even if he was not wrong this time. The endorphins the body released during orgasm really helped with stress relief and relaxation. Jimin continued carefree despite my neighbour being visibly unhappy about the topic. >>But it’s more fun with two people. << he finished and wiggled his eyebrows, a shit-eating grin on his face. My neighbour snorted unamused before reaching into the shelf behind him and threw the first thing he could reach for at Jimin, in this case a chewing gum container. The blonde man caught it with playful ease.

>>I would prefer it if the goods would not get wings. << I finally revealed myself, while it cost me some serious self-control not to laugh out loud. The incredibly annoyed expression on my neighbour’s face turned into a wide beam when he saw the boxes in my arms. >>Before anything breaks here. << I finished my statement and put the boxes on the counter next to Jimin. >>Is that enough? << I turned back to Jungkook who jumped up nodding gleefully. >>You are the best Y/n! << he exclaimed cheerfully and embraced me impetuously. Since I hadn’t expected it, I stiffened reflexively briefly, which he didn’t seem to notice in his euphoria. I couldn’t resist a smile as I wrapped my arms around his narrow waist to return the hug. However, he seemed to see it as a kind of invitation to wrap his arms a little tighter around my form, which only elicited a suffocated sound from me. Classic case of underestimating one’s own strength. A squeak escaped my throat as he suddenly lifted me up just to hug me tighter. A quiet giggle echoed from the counter, which could also have come from me, if my neighbour wasn’t busy squeezing any air left out of my lungs. I had never experienced so much enthusiasm about a few bottles of banana milk.

Instead of just putting me back on the ground, he still kept me firmly pressed against his body. Meanwhile I had put my hands on his upper arms to stabilize myself a little. I could feel his muscles tense under the fabric of his T-shirt. It had not remained hidden to me that the young man was 80% pure muscle, since I had met him too often in the morning, when he was on his way to the gym and I was on the way to my flat. Besides, I really wasn’t blind. Although, feeling the muscles under my fingers was certainly not an unwelcomed experience. >>Thank you! Thank you Y/n. You're saving my finals. << he said. If we were now in one of these cheesy romances he would kiss me now. Also something I wouldn’t complain about. But we weren’t. I became painfully aware of this when he put me back on the floor and pulled his wallet out of his pocket. A little disappointed inside, I went back behind the counter and pushed Jimin, who sulked at me, down without further ado. >>This isn’t a seat you dingus. << I said drily and let the black haired man pay for his banana milk.

Suddenly a strange silence laid over us. We looked at each other a little awkwardly while Jungkook grabbed his boxes. >>I’ll go then...<< he mumbled into the silence and nodded giving us a friendly smile before he left. >>Don’t forget what I told you earlier. << Jimin called after him causing the younger one to turn around. The blonde pressed his tongue against the inside of his cheek and made the corresponding hand movement. Jungkook shook his head snorting before he disappeared through the door with a loving >>Fuck you Park! << . Bewildered I looked at my friend and hit him on the arm. >>Not everyone is such a fucking nymphomaniac like you! << I exclaimed outraged and made Jimin burst out laughing. Rolling his eyes, I brought the chewing gum container back to its place, while in the meantime, still giggling quietly, he was roaming through the shop and grabbing some snacks from the shelves. >>I just desperately hope he doesn’t really pour the milk into his coffee. << he said when he came back to me. I shrugged and scanned the things he had put on the counter. >>I don’t think we’ll ever know. << Jimin laughed quietly as I pushed the card reader over to him. >>But during the finals your brain is totally strained, so I wouldn’t be surprised. I don’t have to remind you what you do when you’re stressed, do I? << I teased him a little. The blonde just grumbled as he took the bags. >>See you tomorrow? << he asked before turning to leave. I nodded approvingly. He said goodbye and with that I was alone again. Grinning I looked at the clock. Shortly before 4. I sighed quietly and let myself fall again on my stool behind the heated counter. At least I could still use the last hours for studying.

[writeyouin]

Hi! I'm in love with Part 1 of your "Only Friend" fic, and I can only hope that there will be a Part 2! Anyways, I thought I'd make a request. I was thinking maybe the reader is afraid of the dark and Newt could maybe come to comfort them? I guess I'd like it to be kinda cutesy and sort of romantic. I have, like, a deathly fear of the dark, which is how I came up with this idea. But, um, yeah :) Lots of love

Newt Scamander X Reader – Nyctophobia

A/N – Nothing to do with fanfic but I just found out how hard it is to make Barbie clothes. Also, binging out on the best films ever, “The Never-ending Story” so underrated.

Warnings – None.

Rating – T

Tiredness practically radiated from you, dragging you down with each step you took on the search for yet another one of Newt’s illusive beasts. Usually, you would have been just as eager of Newt but the torrential downpour quickly soaking through your clothes and the mud that clung to you, weighing you down, made it one of your more exhausting journeys.

“NEWT, MAYBE WE SHOULD TURN BACK.” You shouted over the shrieking wind that threatened to whip your words away.

“WE’RE SO CLOSE (Y/N), WE CAN’T STOP NOW.” Newt hollered back, pushing on determinedly.

You sighed warily, folding your arms against the cold to continue. While it was always an option to leave Newt to his task and apparate back to the previous town, you wouldn’t do so; he tended to sustain more injuries when you weren’t around to keep an eye on him.

Finally, after an agonizingly long walk, Newt called for you to stop, then turned to you; much like yourself, his hair was plastered to his face and there were tears in his clothes where the plants had pulled at them.

“I found its shelter.” He declared. “It must come here to avoid the rain.”

“Smart.” You responded sardonically.

Your tone was wasted on Newt as he rambled on in unbridled excitement, “Precisely what I was thinking. I wonder how intelligent it is exactly. Do you think it hates all water or just rain? Oh, what am I saying? It must be okay with some water or at least damp to live in a cave like that.”

You froze, “A- a what? You know, uh- Maybe we should just wait for it to come out. I mean, that could be a huge cave, or the creature could be territorial; what if it feels cornered when we get in there?”

“Well, that’s what we’re going in there to find out and don’t worry about locating it; I happen to be an excellent tracker.”

“Yeah but um- I FORGOT TO BRING A TORCH. Yep. That’s it. Forgot the torch.”

Newt gazed quizzically at you, a slight smile playing at his lips. He held up his wand, whispering, “Lumos.”

Bright light emanated from the wand, dazzling you.

“How silly of me.” You murmured in a daze.

“Come on, it must be close now.”

You took a deep breath, pondering your options while Newt made his way into the cave, “Alright (Y/N), calm down. Everything will be fine as long as we have the light. No need to be afraid as long as we have that.”

You pulled out your wand, with another call of, “Lumos,” then apprehensively followed Newt into the dingy cave.

You listened to the sounds of dripping water that echoed around the caverns. In the light of your wands, the cave seemed to have its own unique beauty, albeit one you could appreciate all the more if your clothes weren’t clinging to you and making you shiver.

“You know, this isn’t as bad as I thought it was going to be.” You exhaled shakily, following Newt through the newly lit cave.

“Haven’t you ever been in a cave before?”

“No, can’t say I have.”

“Wait!” Sudden concern resounded in Newt’s voice as he turned to face you, “Were you- were you afraid of coming here?”

“Wha- Me? No, never. I mean who-” You laughed nervously, “Who’s afraid of caves? Not me, that’s for sure. Fears are just childish anyway, right?”

Newt looked unconvinced, he reached for your face gently “(Y/N), it’s entirely alright if you are-”

“Hey look, are those tracks?”

“Where?”

Newt turned quickly, his concern replaced with eager anticipation. You smiled to yourself, glad that your distraction had taken effect. Although you knew Newt wouldn’t mock you for your fear, it seemed almost pathetic that someone your age should fear something so simple; after all, you were old enough to know that monsters didn’t lurk in the shadows, waiting to hunt you and take you away. Then again, darkness feels so primal, almost like it knows its own sense of foreboding and danger.

After more wandering, the hairs on the back of your neck stood on attention. You swallowed anxiously, feeling eyes trained on you. Up until then, you had almost begun to relax but now, something felt wrong, out of place somehow. Refusing to give in to your nerves, you spun around defiantly, ready to face any threat head-on. The caverns ahead were just as they had been before, empty. After a few seconds checking your surroundings for any trace of a problem, you let yourself relax again, turning back to continue your journey. When you finally turned back however, you were alarmed to find that Newt was nowhere to be seen; he must have accidently continued his search without you.

“Newt?” You called, desperately hoping for a reply. “Newt, you there? If you can hear me-”

The light from your wand flickered dimly, distracting you from your previous sentence before extinguishing and engulfing you in darkness. Terror filled you, making itself known through rapid, uncontrolled breathing and the fast beating of your heart which you were sure anyone would be able to hear had they been there.

“Lumos.” You whimpered, clutching the wand in your sweaty palm. “Lumos. LUMOS. LUMOS.”

You repeated the incantation over and over, each attempt more frantic than the last until the very words themselves failed you. You backed up against a wall, letting it support you in your moment of dread.

Dangerous whispers of an unknown voice that sounded like anger personified invaded your mind, “(Y/N),” it mocked disturbingly, “You can’t see anything. You can’t leave this place or find your way back. You let that fool lead you here. So trusting weren’t you, and now you’ll die here for it since he’s so willingly abandoned you.”

“No.” You argued meekly, becoming light-headed from the lack of air.

“Yes.” The voice continued. “I know you feel the tight bands of fear constricting you. You are going to die and I am going to watch. You’re pathetic, you haven’t even noticed that you’re crying.”

You touched your cheek hastily, finding the tears that flowed unchecked.

“And now, I’m going to leave you.”

“Wait!” You called out to the void. “Don’t go- Don’t leave me alone.”

There was no response. You trembled in the darkness, sliding to the floor as a choking sensation took over. The voice had gone. In the absence of everything, there was nothing else to do but scream. You had never heard a sound like it, you could barely believe that it was coming from you. It was the kind of sound one only heard about in tales designed to terrify the mind and petrify the listener. Yet it was real and came with the dawning realisation that it would be the last sound you made before dying alone without a spec of light to guide you.

“RIDDIKULUS!” The all so familiar voice of Newt barked, turning the darkness into wispy fireworks.

Instead of following the spell with his usual laughter, he surrounded the wisps in a giant orb that emanated from his wand, the orb diminished in size until there was only one wisp to contain. He grabbed the orb, hastily throwing into his ever-useful suitcase, then rushed over to you.

“(Y/N)!” He held onto you tightly, silencing your screams with his presence and touch. “(Y/N), I’m sorry, I didn’t know it was a boggart we were hunting, if I did I would have never- I’m so sorry.”

You clung onto him with shaking hands, affirming he was real before attempting speech, “I w-was so s-s-scared. I d-didn’t know what to do and y-you left me. I was all a-alone. I-I-” Your speech became forfeit to hyperventilation, the sickly rushes of air making you feel all the worse.

“I know but I’m here now.” Newt gazed into your eyes, making sure your attention was on him, “I need you to listen carefully, can you do that?”

You nodded.

“Good.” He fought to keep his tone steady, never showing his own alarm. “I need you to hold on tight while I disapparate us both somewhere safe alright? You’re going to be okay, I promise. Everything is going to be okay.”

“R-Really?”

“Really, now hold on tight.”

Newt needn’t have said so since you were already holding onto him for dear life.

“Ready?”

You nodded once more, burying your head into his chest. The familiar feeling of disapparition surrounded you, stopping suddenly after a few seconds. Newt stroked your hair lightly, notifying you that it was safe to open your eyes. You found yourself in the cosy cottage room you had stayed in the previous night, Newt had booked an extra night just in case he couldn’t find the creature.

“Okay.” He whispered, as if afraid to break the silence. “I’m going to run you a nice hot bath and get you some clean clothes from out the case, alright?”

You held onto his shirt sleeve, “…Please don’t leave me.”

Newt melted at the sight of your doleful eyes, his brow furrowing sympathetically, “How about this? You come with me to fetch your things and I’ll wait outside the bathroom while you get washed?”

“You promise you won’t go anywhere?”

“I’ll talk to you the entire time.”

You nodded meekly. Newt looked relieved at the agreement, turning to leave until you held him back once more.

“What about tonight?” You asked.

“I’m sorry?”

“Can you- Can you stay in here with me tonight?”

Newt flushed red at the informal proposal, he had never once shared a room with you, respecting your privacy to the best of his ability. However, one more look at your vulnerable features changed his priorities.

“Alright.” He concurred. “Tonight, I’ll stay.”