#instead together they are a KFC bucket

[jasontoddsgaythoughts]

I only accept Dick always calling Jason little wing, if he’s calling Tim smallest wing, and Damian would just be straight up feather at this point

[ozzgin]

Yandere! Yakuza x Reader (IV)

Happy Holidays! Remember your plans to visit friends and family back in your home country? Scratch that. The Yakuza men have other ideas for you in this cozy Christmas special. And you finally get to meet their fearsome Boss, who has a request for you.

[Part 1] [Part 2] [Part 3] [Part 4] [Part 5]

You stare at your phone in disbelief, rereading each line and hoping you've misunderstood the kanji. Daitou and Kazuya are quietly frowning behind you, unsure how to help in such a situation. Their lack of response only confirms it.

The brief paragraph is written in bold, red font: Due to weather conditions, all flights are cancelled until further notice. Passengers have been refunded and will need to repurchase their tickets at first convenience.

One glimpse at the last-minute prices and you're certain of it: you won't be going home for Christmas. You slouch and sigh, somewhat at peace with the idea. What else can you do? You might as well get yourself a KFC bucket and stare at the holiday lights in the city center. You and the couples taking cheesy Christmas selfies, who will later wonder about the gloomy loner behind them philosophically crunching on spicy wings.

"Don't look so defeated, (Y/N). You can just spend that time with us instead. We're not such terrible company, are we?" Kazuya jokes, trying to cheer you up.

"We could even go on a trip around New Year."

Your eyes light up in anticipation, the sadness vanishing almost instantly. 

"Can we go to one of those hot spring inns? I've always wanted to visit an onsen." You put your hands together pleadingly. 

"Whoa! Take me out to dinner first if you're that eager to see me naked." The blonde man winks at you smugly. 

"How would I see you naked? The baths are separated, aren't they?" You inquire. 

"We can't go to the regular ones." Daitou pulls his collar slightly downwards, revealing a fragment of his traditional tattoos. True. A yakuza would never be allowed among the civilians. "We'd have to book a private bath, so there wouldn't be anyone else."

You blush at the prospect of being alone with the two men. Kazuya notices your nervousness and is about to continue his teasing, but Daitou speaks before him, unbothered and oblivious:

"Besides, you've already seen me naked. I can tell you Kazuya doesn't look much different. There's nothing to be shy about."

The blonde man can only gawk, taken aback, and you shove Daitou in a flustered panic, fumbling to find an excuse or a change of subject.

He didn't have to make your business public like that, or he could've at least announced it without you being present. Judging by the blonde's speechless reaction, you're guessing he hasn't been told about your sneaky office smooching that led to the occasional sleepover. If you think about it, there's nothing shameful about being intimate with your boyfriend, but...It's not something you're fully accustomed to yet.

As promised, after the coworker incident you were soon greeted with a job offer in the neighborhood. When you went to your old office to discuss the mandatory year contract, the managers nervously handed you an approval for resignation and refused to discuss any details. You were free to go, no penalty or obligation. They had a fearful demeanor and you hoped Daitou didn't dismember anyone involved. Regardless of his means, you were now at the liberty to pursue other careers.

On the other hand, you were rather anxious about your new workplace. You had flashing visions of drug cartels and gambling parlors, with thugs rattling their drinks at you and demanding proper service. Windows breaking and masked men rolling onto the floor, armed to the brim. Ginza hostesses scurrying behind you and asking for help against an angered client. The night before your first day, you restlessly shuffled in your bed, plagued by second thoughts. What could you possibly do for the yakuza? What ghoulish demands would they prepare for you?

Daitou was the one to accompany you in the morning. He showed you to your desk, and you could discern the blurred frames of people angrily discussing matters in the opposing meeting room, separated by a large window. You gulped.

"They're building a new apartment complex two streets down." Your boyfriend mentioned casually, helping you settle with your belongings. 

"Huh?"

"Oh, sorry, I thought you were curious about their talk."

"I mean, I am, but...Is that it?" You gazed at him incredulously. 

"What else? This is a real estate office. Upstairs is the stock investments."

"Oh...Oh...I thought..." You were a little embarrassed. The imaginary scenarios of bloody battles and crimes that kept you awake felt quite ridiculous now.

Daitou seemed to have picked up on your assumptions, because he chuckled and ruffled your hair, following with an explanation. 

"Boss is very strict with our Ninkyo-Do. If you're caught with drugs or petty theft, you're excommunicated. We used to have a bunch of gambling casinos as main income, but nowadays there's too much pressure from the police, ya know? Half of our members aren't even officially registered with the Yakuza, so they can't be tracked. We mostly do stocks and real estate. That's where the cash is. 

Heh. Kinda boring, ain't it? I'm afraid you showed up way after the golden times. Even I'm too young for it. If ya want, I can ask one of the retired seniors to tell you about it. He has a lot of great stories."

You held your tongue from bringing up his frequent killing sprees and just nodded, amused by the fact that his code of conduct didn't register human casualties as wrong. The Yakuza have strict rules of ethics that set them apart from regular mafia. Depending on the Oyabun, or Head of the Family, this chivalrous way of living is reinforced to all members or conveniently swept under the rug. Daitou's Boss seemed to fit in the former category. 

Therefore your "office job" turned out to be an actual office job without the quotes. Although you were often reminded the people passing by weren't your regular salarymen. Many of them were entirely transparent with you, striking up conversations about their latest arrest, or complaining about the poor quality of their pinky finger prosthetic they'd ordered from the Philippines. 

But this isn't the time to reminisce. The prolonged silence is unbearable and one could fry eggs on your hot, burning cheeks. Kazuya is the one to break the awkwardness. 

"Oh, yeah...You coming to the Christmas thing this evening?"

"We'll be there." Daitou smiles innocently, unaware of the discomfort he just caused.

Kazuya raises his eyebrows in surprise and looks at you.

"Did you...?"

"Yup. It's all fine." The dark haired man nods reassuringly. 

"Then I'll see you at dinner, little (Y/N). Don't catch a fever with all that steam blowing out of you." He laughs at your still baffled expression and places his large hand on your head, departing.

Daitou holds the door open for you and you hurry inside. As you both walk down the hallway of the luxurious restaurant, you can't help the nagging feeling that he's once again omitted some vital information. 

"Can you tell me again who else is coming? Just Kazuya?"

"Oh no, it's a Family meeting. So Boss and the rest of the Seniors, too."

You gasp in horror, but before you can scold him, you find yourself behind the canvas screen divider, facing a table of older men in suits, holding their drinks and eyeing you suspiciously. 

"Oi, who the fuck is this, Daitou?" one of them growls. 

"I already told you before, (Y/N). My girlfriend."

"Huh? Did you seriously just bring a civvy to our meeting? I knew you got a loose screw, boy, but this tops it all."

Daitou frowns and steps in front of you, visibly annoyed. 

"If ya got a problem with my woman being here, I can settle it for you, old man. When was the last time you fought someone?"

"'s that supposed to mean?"

"It means you've gotten too comfortable sitting up there and barking orders. Let me remind you why they leave the killings to me."

The thick tension in the air is quickly dispersed by a loud, relaxed laugh. At the end of the table, a heavily scarred man with grey hair is clapping his hands in delight, seemingly amused by the events unfolding. He glances at you and pats a cushioned seat to his right. 

"There you are! Come join us, miss (Y/N). Ignore those rusty grumps, they ain't seen a woman outside a host club." He throws the instigator a brief glare. "Is that any way to talk to my guest, Oota?"

The man swallows dryly and mutters an apology. He goes back to his drink, preoccupied, and the rest follow suit. 

You hesitantly kneel down to your designated place, sheepishly peeking at the mysterious figure. Could it be? As if reading your mind, Daitou places an encouraging hand on your waist and lowers his head to your ear, swiftly whispering "that's Boss" before going to greet the others at the table. 

"I-it's a pleasure meeting you, Sir." You mumble nervously.

"No no, pleasure is all mine. I'm Eiji Ijichi, 8th Head of our Family." 

His introduction is unexpectedly warm and his easygoing way of speaking reminds you a lot of Daitou. The faintest grin threatens to appear, but you cover your mouth. With enough imagination, this could be the equivalent of meeting your in-laws. This is Daitou's family, after all. A criminally scary one, but nonetheless you've been welcomed with open arms.

"Do you drink?" The older man asks you, raising his porcelain cup.

"Naturally." You exclaim and lift your own cup enthusiastically. 

"Attagirl!"

As the night progresses, the men at the table are loosening up under the influence of expensive alcohol. Kazuya seems to be caught in a terribly involved conversation with Daitou and one of their Captains, gesturing dramatically and occasionally raising his tone. You notice your glass has once again been filled by the waitress and take another sip, satisfied with observing their fun from the sidelines. Boss has a similar approach, gazing nostalgically over the rowdy group of thugs.

He reaches for his pack of smokes and you scramble to pick up the lighter, politely bowing as you light up his cigarette. He smiles at your gesture. 

"I see Daitou's trained you already."

He ponders for a moment, gently blowing a cloud of smoke upwards. 

"You'll make a good wife."

"Excuse me?" You question, startled by his sudden remark. 

"It's hard to tell, but I'm getting pretty old myself." He snickers at his self made compliment. "Soon it'll be time to pick my successor. I have no children, unless you count that rascal I picked from the streets." He says as he tilts his chin towards Daitou. 

"I love him like my own kid, but I'm sure you noticed he's a little off. Everyone is terrified of him. You can't have a leader if everyone runs away from him, ya know? I was starting to get worried I'd work myself through retirement. Kazuya can only do so much!

Then he comes up to me grinning like an idiot. I thought, 'There it is. He finally lost it', but instead he asks me if I want to see a photo of his girlfriend. Girlfriend?! I was ready to witness some crusty body pillow, my hand was on the phone to call our Family doctor. He shows me a cute foreigner standing next to him. Now I'm pretty sure he's not smart enough to fake photos like that, so it must be the real deal. 'How the Devil did ya pull this one?' I asked him. Cause listen, I was rather handsome back in my day and I still wouldn't have been this lucky.

And would ya look at that, it's the miss that moved into our apartments! How's the living conditions, by the way? Everything going fine?"

You nod energetically.

"Good, good."

He crosses his arms and nods himself, satisfied. He turns to gaze at you intently, with a face you can't quite read.

"You gotta excuse a drunk old man for rambling so much. What I'm trying to say...well...

Take care of him when he becomes the 9th, will ya? If he has you, I'm sure he'll manage. But don't tell him I said that! You gotta keep them humble. See, that's a lesson for you too. If there's one person the Head of the Family bows to, that's his wife! But I doubt he'd let the power get to his head."

You both turn to Daitou. He just finished pouring more sake to his superior and notices your stare. He blushes slightly and waves, unsure why he's suddenly being observed. 

"I think so, too." You respond, waving back. 

How would that look on a CV? Ane-san of a Yakuza family. 

[cynopcis]

when you open the door to your apartment you were really only expecting to see your two cats waiting for you patiently at the genkan. instead, you see two plastic bags of KFC on the coffee table along with 2 plates and 2 sets of chopsticks.

satoru hates kfc, you think to yourself, immediately erasing the fact that it could be him. you cautiously tread carefully not knowing who to expect since satoru was the only one you gave spare keys to.

"toji?"

you blink in surprise as you take in the scene before you, your 6 foot tall and buffer than the average man, brother was wearing red pants and an ugly christmas sweater with ruldoph the reindeer's face.

"how the heck did you get inside?"

he promptly points to the open glass door leading up to your balcony.

"you have to work on your security around here," he rolls up his sleeves as he peeled some of the apples he brought with him, "also saw your grey cat outside, what's her name? miso?"

"miso's a he"

"oh yeah."

you take time to process the sight of your brother in your kitchen 47 minutes before christmas wearing a festive outfit while peeling apples (and shaping them into bunnies.)

you put your bag down, enter your room, only to find a somewhat matching sweater to his. "is this mine?" you call out.

you hear a faint "yeah" before pulling the sweater over your turtleneck.

you walk back to the living room, sit down, and set your legs underneath the kotatsu. "so... what's up?"

toji walks over to you, sets down a plate filled with fruits, and sits across you. "that gojo kid said you might want some company."

you scoff, "i call bullshit." you know he'd never do anything satoru would advice or tell him to do.

toji shrugs and start serving himself fried chicken.

"really, why are you here? i thought naoya set up a christmas dinner in the family estate."

"he's trying real hard to impress that old man"

you study the expression on his face as he eats, you nibble on the apple your holding trying to think of reasons as to why your self-proclaimed mysterious and nonchalant brother would be in your apartment having kentucky friend chicken.

"i hear the kids are having fun at disney land"

his eyebrow twitches at the mention of his kids.

"satoru is doing a really good job so far, i think it was a good decision on your part you know? to give him custody."

his only response is a gruff yes.

"do you miss them?"

he doesn't answer even while you're burning holes through his skin with your staring. he feels uncomfortable with the topic you brought up. he can't be mad, he really can't.

you took a piece of chicken from the bucket and ate it silently, even though you already had your fill at the company dinner you still ate for toji. "i know you feel lonely."

"no you don't" he finally answers

"i know," you point to your temple, "its a sibling thing, i can sense it."

toji rolls his eyes and did a circling motion with his index finger.

"it's okay nii-san, we can be lonely together."

he pushes his share of mashed potatoes to you. he thinks you like potatoes the most.

[greycaelum]

In which you celebrate Christmas Eve alone... for not so long.

Christmas in Japan is more of a KFC bucket day than a holiday. It doesn't really follow the 'spirit of giving, joy, and love' stuff but nonetheless it's still Christmas.

You didn't expected much. Groggily waking at 23:55 of December 24th and heating some leftover in the fridge, you occupied the kitchen nook with a thin jacket on your body and rubbing your freezing soles together.

You had this stare down with the reindeer magnet in your fridge in hopes to at least feel that presence of some Christmas Spirit in the dead of the night while slurping some ramen.

"Mnnn, pigging out without me? How bold of ya Baby." A lazy drawl interrupted you, followed by a heavy weight pressed on your back. "Christmas Eve without me? Ugh, you hurt my heart." He dramatically clutch his chest and frown with his eyes shut close—'in pain'.

"You were sleeping soundly."

"But you know I love doing this stuffs." Satoru pulled a chair beside you and wasted no time to pat his lap for you to climb on.

You looks messily adorable in your pajamas, barely tied bun hair, while blowing off the heat of the noodles. It makes him wanna keep you tucked in the pockets of his heart.

"You were snoring when I tried to wake you." You huffed, but nonetheless climb to his thighs. Discarding the idea of food and instead opted to cuddle the cold of December with your love.

You feel so warm like this. Satoru tucked your face in the spaces of his neck while he breathes in your shampoo scent while peppering kisses on your temples. Securing his strong arms around your waist to keep you steady with your legs wrap around his waist. Gotta keep you as warm as possible.

"Next time don't do this shit alone, got it Baby? Celebrating alone?" He huffs. "Not if I can help it."

"Right..." You yawned. Nuzzling your face into Satoru's neck and giggled when he shivered. The little devil in you urged you to nuzzle him more, some boop, boop and rub, rub in the neck to make your beau shudder and whine.

"Naughty~" Satoru grunted, baring his teeth to chomp the shell of your earlobe making you squeak and giggle.

"Merry Christmas 'Toru," you leaned upward to kiss him and smiled after, giggling as you press and rub your face against his warm chest.

"Merry Christmas my pretty one." He grinned, flashing you those cute fangs of his before he delve down for a sweet kiss.

A/N: not proofread, rushed out for a little christmas drabble, anyway merry christmas & happy holidays everyone!

—Grey,

[sinnamonpork]

i've seen so many shouto and touya running away fics and gosh damn it really warms my heart. just them both making do on the streets, because a cold and tiny home is better than the previous life they had. they compromise and compromise and compromise even more bc both of them are essentially rich kids that are just... not used to this. touya is here turning his back from the more villainous jobs bc his baby brother is back home and he can't have anything putting them both in danger. shouto actually learning life skills because if his brother's not gonna let him work, he'd do everything he can to atleast help his obviously overworked sibling.

more thoughts of them adding toga, small and feral toga who got kicked out into the street, to the house they're calling home and suddenly their quiet nights are filled with excited chatters and curious questions. himiko toga who tried to shape shift one time and steal food for them bc the household doesn't really have a steady income and getting reprimanded of it instead of praised. she expects for them to kick her out but instead got a careful lecture from touya why she can't do that bc she. is. a. child. and she shouldn't need to worry about those things. the lecture was hard and confusing, but atleast the warmth of shouto's hug at her side keeps her grounded, knowing they won't let her go.

a few years later comes shinsou hitoshi, who touya found almost getting beat up behind an alley. even though he wasn't with them permanently, the home that they built provided a safe space for the kid whenever things got too much in the shelter. touya wants the kid to be with them full time but can't make the kffer knowing that 1. he can't take care of another kid full time and 2. the house just isn't big enough. shinsou still appreciates the care the small family has shown him and he wouldn't trade the soft pokes of himiko's weapon of the day(a spatula), the quiet discussions he has with shouto about their dreams of becoming a hero(to save ppl around them like how their nii-san showed them) or the food that touya makes once in a blue moon whenever he got the time between jobs.

(ok wow this is getting long)

anyways it all culminates when they all go to highschool and class 1-a is just confused because why their ice prince and introvert shouto clearly close with the trigger happy girl from support class and the aizawa knockoff from gen-ed. ppl not knowing they grew up together so all the sibling stuff doesn't get noticed right away. it becomes increasingly obvious though when the dorm system got enacted and shouto always has someone he's on a call with every night, without fail. the class can hear himiko's latest crush from his phone(to the absolute embarrassment of ochako when she realized her name keeps popping up) as another voice keeps teasing him about his failed provisional license. at the start of their 2nd year, the class finally meets one of the infamous siblings when the door to the classroom opened to a stranger and immediately put shouto in a headlock. just them w/ sibling dynamics plsss.

with all the kids busy w/ highschool, touya has found that he has more and more time to himself. this leads into him picking up more jobs and meeting a certain no. 2 hero in all of them. a kfc cashier? the bird is there to order three whole buckets every night. a hot topic salesman? the no. 2 hero suddenly needs eyeliner even when he already has natural ones from his quirk(unfair). the barista in a cat cafe? the press suddenly has pictures of hawks playing with cats even though he's famous for his allergies with them. just them meeting again and again and eventually trying things out. the first time they slept together, keigo wakes up to touya on a phone call with a clearly female voice, exasperation and fondness leaking out of him as he explains step by step how to cook an omelette into the phone. they get the talk that if they want to continue their relationship, he should know that he has three little leeches that he'd protect w/ his life. out of all the reactions touya expected to come out of him saying he's practically almost a single father of three, the blush and keigo practically stopping himself from hugging the life out of the man wasn't it. bc touya is basically the cold and edgy pretty boy with the adorable soft spot and heart of gold to anyone who he cares about and keigo is practically vibrating in happiness, and how did he managed to score this man??

their family of five (six? dunno if quirks are considered ppl) gets added once more, from a completely unexpected turn of events, when tokoyami fumikage starts interning with hawks and being immediately unofficially adopted. just him being so confused why two of his classmates are inside his mentor's apartment and watching a horror movie. he immediately latches into touya when the man came back from getting groceries with himiko, his fashion and hot topic vibe immediately earning him respect from fumi. the birb is just so confused when instead of doing intern things, he gets invited into the sofa and got fed more sweets and junk food than a whole year combined. he woke up to himiko sprawled on top of him on the couch as one of keigo's wings cover the 4 kids and the other shielding himself and touya from view.

(i want to add more but this is getting too long. might make a fic out of this? im still not sure)

[zmediaoutlet]

happy wincest wednesday z! How do you think sam and dean rang in the New Year for their first post 15x19 NYE?

happy dayyyyy eve!

You know, 90% of the time I'm like 'they did something unsentimental and pretty boring' because I, too, am unsentimental and pretty boring, but that very first one post 15.19 I think might have legit had a different feeling to it, you know? Kind of the reverse of Dean's s3 Christmas -- "Well, yeah -- it's my last year." In a weird way it's their... first. Not that none of the years before counted or that they weren't real -- I think after getting over some of the meta madness re: Chuck's revelations, both Sam and Dean end up in a spot where they have to believe that their lives meant something beyond running in place. But like they said sitting on their lil table before they drove into the sunset -- they're really free, now, and they really get to make their own choices, and even if that choice ends up being still to hunt and still to live together and still to be the brosbandiest brosbands who ever brosbanded -- it is a brand new world, and that's gotta feel kind of... wild!

Given that 15.19 took place during a vague summer, they would have had time to sit with it, and get right with the world, and make all those 'I guess we are committed to each other and this' not-really-a-decision decisions that get them to Brosband Town, Population 2. Which takes them past Thanksgiving -- Dean got an extra large bucket from KFC, I don't know if he's really planning to do the whole spread -- and past Christmas -- special lubes and novelty socks exchanged -- and then it's super fuckin' cold in Kansas and they just... they don't have anything that's wrong. Which is nuts! New! What?

Because their lives, unbeknownst to them, were guided by the dictates of cable tv schedules, the mid-season finale always did something fucked up. Sam was in the cage with Lucifer or Dean was in a shoe or -- whatever happened. But the worst that's set to happen to them in the holiday season post 15.19 is that Dean might get a hole in his new novelty socks because they're always shitty quality. So -- they're together and they're happy and, hell, maybe Dean does pick up a bottle of 5 dollar champagne from the quik-e-mart on his way home and they do stay up until midnight anyway, and he comes into the library where Sam's 'looking for a job' on his laptop [read: dicking around reading reddit comments on /r/AskAHistorian], and Dean says, hey, think fast and Sam says what and Dean fires the champagne cork past him, which makes Sam jump and go what the hell! and Dean sniggers and then he knocks back Sam's whiskey and pours champagne into the cup instead, and oh, hey, it's a minute to midnight. And it's -- them, safe. And Dean's grinning at him with those crinkles at the corners of his eyes and Sam thinks he's a jerk but he also thinks other things, so.

A minute left -- any resolutions? Sam says, and Dean says, yeah, I resolute to make you wash the car more often and Sam says as if, you never let me wash the car, and Dean says, true. So then Dean says, what about you? and Sam looks at him and also looks at him and then says, I don't know, I think I'm good, and Dean's ears are a little pink but he says, yeah, you're Mr. Perfect, and he says it easy, sitting down on the table, so that Sam hooks a hand behind his knee, and then Dean says, hey, and nods, and Sam looks down at his laptop to see it's midnight. Dean clunks the champagne bottle against Sam's mug and they each take a drink, and when Dean lowers the bottle he leans right down and kisses Sam on the mouth, bubbly and acidic because this is really shitty champagne, and -- it's a happy new year. May they have many more.

[measuringbliss]

Spider-Man Read-Through 029 The Ghost That Haunted Octopus (ASM 157-159, Ann 10)

MASTERPOST

In this batch, Peter, Doc Ock and May eat KFC together, Hammerhead's back in more ways than one, people throw trashcans at each other and

Ock has such peak schoolgirl behavior.

Remember what happened last time? Doc Ock's back in spite of an entire nuclear exploding with him on it. Can't wait to hear Marvel's explanation for that one, especially since I don't see him as a particularly interesting villain.

Just like last batch, this one begins with a tilted picture of Spidey against a carefully drawn backdrop. Ross Andru, I love you.

So Spidey wants to salvage the Spider-Mobile, and I'm elated. I didn't expect us to come back to it, but it's nice to see continuity. Sadly for me though, our hero can't find it aside from a small part. (There's also the question of how he'd get it out of the water, but all in good time!)

Ross Andru's art really improved, and it was great from the very beginning!

Meanwhile, if you're interested in the rest of the cast...

I'm grinning ear to ear. So Harry follows a therapy, that's good! He doesn't remember finding his father's equipement... and I have to assume, his showdown with Peter too. But "the weeks after" Norman's death certainly stretches it, doesn't it? Oh well. Handy way to stay vague. More importantly, something's going between Liz and Harry. Gee, I'm sure everything will go fine and no drama will happen in the next 50 years.

What am I saying? Let's just enjoy the present time.

And Otto's certainly enjoying his time, showering at May's and putting on that hideous suit of his. Just in time for Peter to arrive with a bucket full of crispy chicken he can't wait to share with his favorite (and only?) aunt.

He's less than enthused. Octavius's schoolgirl posture just compliments his fatigue.

The explanation is bonkers and yet oddly makes sense. It still made me laugh. So the reactor didn't explose right when Hammerhead dove into it, giving the time to Ock to find a protected hatch and secure himself in his indestructible mechanical arms.

Silly, but logical enough. Then the island actually exploded when Hammerhead unstuck himself from the reactor.

Suddenly, Hammerhead's ghost barges in and May does what she does best: she faints. Ock's quite annoyed and leaves with May, just as Peter gives us a nice backshot.

I have priorities, folks. I'm awake since 2 am, and it's almost 5. You can't be angry at me. I'll objectify my men however I can.

He puts on his Spidey suit and follows Ock, accidentally barging in a random lady's apartment. She has a ferocious dog though and she immediately orders him to attack Peter.

He escapes, then Ock gets into a chopper, Spidey webs himself to it, but Ock notices and slashes his web. The issue closes with our hero falling on a desert landscape! Oh no, will he survive?!

#158 starts with Spidey webbing up a glider. Why not! He still loses track of Ock and Aunt May. The next day...

MJ does have a nice outfit. I was afraid that MJ would be wary of Glory for trying to steal her man, but it seems like they're going to become friends instead and I'm totally here for it!

I'm also very much here for the objectification of one Peter Parker. It's giving Ripley on the Nostromo. And hey, they pass the Bechdel test!

At the Daily Bugle, we learn that a competitor has been hiring the Bugle's members. Robbie's afraid that they'd already contacted Peter.

They did not.

Still, with Betty being in Paris with Ned (I miss them already!), Jameson hired a new secretary, and we see a funny scene where she's trying her very best, which obviously doesn't cut it.

More importantly, Peter learns May is at the Brookhaven Labs and goes there as Spidey.

Long story short, Ock thinks he's about to disintegrate Hammerhead's ghost... but instead, the man's back in the flesh! Incredible, two villains I don't care much about. Ock at least has the ridiculous May plotline, but what does Hammerhead have?

In #159, the three enemies knock each other down at the same time, the henchmen in yellow confess they've been working to resurrect their boss Hammerhead this entire time, and Hammerhead escapes with May. Spidey and Ock vow to save her together.

I do appreciate that Spidey and Ock are allies for a chunk of this batch, but dear Lord, there really isn't enough civilian stuff for my taste. Thankfully, we get a bit right now.

Somewhere, people have saved the Spider-Mobile from annihilation... but it seems to be booby-trapped.

At the Bugle, Jameson's second new secretary is having just as hard a time as her predecessor. She quickly decides to value her life and quits.

Spidey and Ock find Hammerhead in his spinning circular office (I know we've seen it before, but I don't remember where and I'm too uninterested to search for it, isn't it a Mysterio issue?), Hammerhead escapes in a chopper and Ock throws trashcans at it until it explodes.

Pretty explosion at least!

Don't worry, May's fine.

What a mess of issues. Check the fluff, skip the chuffs.

In the readers' letters, Larry Twiss mentions Tomb of Dracula from several months earlier and my interest is piqued. Can't wait to reach that! He also mentions the first Superman/Spider-Man crossover and man, I have to read it!

Now, onto Annual 10!

So the main plot of the issue is not particularly interesting: Spidey stops a criminal, but he gets away and becomes the Fly thanks to a scientist Jameson bribes. The real plot, however, is that the Globe has been getting more popular than the Bugle recently, and I wonder if Peter's going to work there for a bit...

The Fly kills the scientist and kidnaps Jameson. If Spider-Man wants to save JJ, he's going to have to fight the Fly!

Sadly, Jameson created enemies for Spidey (when he isn't one himself) is just not a plot I care much about.

The Fly gets taken care of, and Peter stays at the Bugle.

Ooooooh, we're finally getting to the second magazine!

[kaleschmidt]

DSAF Assorted HCs (Part 2)

yeah. uh. get fucking jumpscared. previous part here

once again expect some TKPverse stuff here ok? nice

Jack

This is important okay you need to fucking listen to me. that is a short, fat, hairy man. I don't care that he's corpsy he is hairy as hell.

he has. so many issues. there's probably more but my current hcs for him are npd, bipolar, n adhdtism

his nervous stim is backflipping (thx quentin)

He chose his own middle name and it starts with an F. that's all i'm saying

It has a biting/chewing stim and will chew on anything it can get its hands on. Dave can get bited as a treat. otherwise shirt

Jack can sew!! They did it often when they were taking care of Dee and picked it up from their mom.

^ Jack made Dee's scarf btw. also after dee's death, jack stopped sewing

Jack DID pick sewing back up again (kinda) when he realized he kinda has to sew their body parts back up

He fucking HATES being called "Jackie". no exceptions

From DSAF 1-2, he wears a wig. Pre-DSAF 3, he starts growing it out, though. cuts/shaves it into a fucked up mullet for DSAF 3 though.

..... the mullet is made out of mold. Sorry. He's insane and so am I

As it worked on the machine for the Flipside, whenever it got KFC, it always broke any wishbones in the bucket, hoping it would help contribute to the machine working- that all his efforts would be worth something. TKPverse, he still does this

Dave

This is obviously i LITERALLY MADE A WHOLE FUCKING POST ABOUT IT but Dave has bpd. He also has adhdtism n probs a few other things

Dave really doesn't like when people are behind her and rather people walk in front of her instead. ESPECIALLY when walking through doorways

actually likes licorice. in my heart.

Dave has faint tastebuds after the whole "eating an ashtray" thing. Kebabs are his comfort food though

Capable of falling asleep with his eyes open. This has made Jack shit a few times

Dave steals Jack's clothes sometimes. they're big on him

Peter

major sin i'm sorry. peter is a big disney fan. i don't have a favorite movie for him yet

more of a silly hc n not anything solid but when he dressed up as The Rat, I like to imagine Peter did a very horrible mickey impression. we love you peter

When Naomi's (his daughter) sixth birthday passed, Peter was so relieved that she survived that he cried to Caroline about it, after Naomi was tucked into bed

This is like. a hc i debatably switch between having and not, but Peter's middle name is Guy. for normal reason.s

Caroline

She and Jack actually got along well! They like to tease each other a lot

VERY skilled in wrestling

Caroline had several brothers she used to live with (she was the oldest sibling), so she can relate to Peter abt older sibling troubles

SHIT at fucking cooking. peter was the one who cooked. she did her best though

Japanese-American i can't accept her being fully white i'm sorry.

Matt

Further elaborating on the timeline stuff he has going on: Matt more or less has a hivemind throughout timelines that shares memories throughout. hope that helps

^ JACK DOES NOT FUCKING KNOW THIS AND MATT IS NOT LETTING HIM KNOW THAT.

I can't believe i never said this but Matt is mixed. filipino + white specifically. GO WASIAN BOY GO. he's not exactly as connected w his filipino heritage though

he actually likes madonna as an artist but he'd rather die than admit that. you're not getting that out of him.

Davesport

On the few occassions the two take a shower, Jack + Dave shower together. helps a lot. they make a fucking mess sometimes though

Sometimes they sleep together naked. fuck you. ok? sniff. let me have this

i'd put this in their respective sections, but jack + dave have specific sleeping styles. Jack likes to sleep all sprawled out, and Dave does that sometimes too! But mostly she's all cozied up to Jack. likes to feel smaller sometimes

Dave likes to knock his head against Jack sometimes ok? ok.

Relationships

now that i have gotten him i can finally confirm. oscar + matt bffs 4ever

Matt likes Jack, in the sense that he's interesting to it, with most timelines revolving around him. Would never want to get involved with his business though. It's too hot for that shit

Peter + Dave frenemies ftw... they will begrudgingly get along. they're more similar than they think

so like i know that i said jack + harry had a fling in the last post but i grew and changed as a person. that's a lesbian phone. I do think that Jack trusted Harry the most out of the other phoneys, though

I think Jack saw a bit of itself in Roger. never admitting though.

off-topic but has jack fucking hit on every phone employee of his. i haven't seen jake's shit but has he. Jack.

Dave actually has a ... somewhat nice acquaintanceship w Steven! i kinda need them to bond a little more ok?

[amjustagirl]

yuletide surprise

pairing: kita shinsuke x f! reader 

genre: romance 

warnings: a hint of suggestive content. 

wc: 1k 

summary: kita shinsuke is the best present you could’ve asked for. 

a/n: for emi @haikyooot​ - merry christmas darling! 

Your phone rings. “Shinsuke?” 

“Dearest.” Kita Shinsuke sounds winded even over the phone, almost as if he’s out of breath. “I’m sorry to disturb you.”

“Not at all”, you murmur soothingly. “Is everything okay?” 

Your boyfriend never calls you during your working hours, keeping any communications he might have with you after office hours only. ‘Because you’re working, and it’d be rude to disturb you’, he tells you, as if it were the only natural thing to do. You suppose he’s just being his considerate self - one of the many reasons you love him so very, very much - and you rue the distance that separates you, the miles between concrete jungle of Osaka and his farm nestled in the rolling hills of Hyogo. 

So to receive a call from him in the afternoon on a weekday is surprising, worrying even. 

“Not really”, he says. Your heart drops. “Granny’s caught a cold and - ”

“You should stay with her, make sure she’s okay”, you cut in immediately. “Don’t worry about me.” 

Never mind that tomorrow’s Christmas - a day of celebration for couples. You had plans, certainly. To head down to the city centre with Shinsuke by your side, share a steaming cup of hot chocolate with him, devour the enormous bucket of KFC that you’d pre-ordered together in your tiny apartment. Of course it makes you sad that he won’t be around, but Granny Yumie is getting along in years, and you will not tear her grandson away from her when she’s ill.

“I’m sorry”, he says, and you can hear that distinct note of guilt in his voice. 

“It’s okay”, you reply brightly. “Things happen, and I get that! Unfortunately I’m working tomorrow so I can’t come down to Hyogo to visit Granny instead, but send her my best wishes, and I hope she’ll feel better soon.”   

“Will do”, he murmurs, and you have to disconnect the call, rush back into work. 

It’s admittedly a little lonely when you end work on Christmas day and stroll down the streets of shinsaibashi on the way to the train station. You’re surrounded by scores of happy couples linking arms, a reminder that unlike them, you are very much alone. Resolutely tilting your face down towards your phone, you text Shinsuke instead, keeping your tone light, asking how Granny Yumie is, how your day went, what you had for lunch, chatter on your plans to visit him at the farm for the new year holidays - at least until you squeeze on the train and you’re treading the well worn path back home. 

Strange. 

He hasn’t looked at his phone all afternoon, that much you can tell from his last seen. Perhaps he’s fussing over Granny – he’s a good man that way, and you’d never begrudge him for it. 

You’re so deep in thought (or at least, mired in thoughts about how lucky you are to call Kita Shinsuke yours) that you nearly trip over the hamper of food on your doorstep. A note attached to it proclaims it’s from Miya Osamu - by the Orders of the Captain, and there’s so much food - onigiris and stir fries abound that you’re somewhat glad you cancelled your KFC order. At least you’ll be eating well tonight, if alone. 

You send another text to Shinsuke, and then another to the younger Miya twin. To your ire, Atsumu seems to have stolen Osamu’s phone and neither of you are too fond of each other - clearly, since he responds by sending you a picture of him sticking out his tongue - extremely childishly, if you might say so. “Go to hell, Atsumu”, you text back before tossing your phone on the couch, sprawling on the floor to scarf down the feast your boyfriend has decided to send you. 

If you end up stuffing yourself with too much food and end up falling asleep on your couch without even taking a shower - well, no one needs to know that, not when it’s the weekend the very next day. 

You’re lost in the throes of sleep, fitfully dreaming of your plans for the new year at the farm with Shinsuke, visiting his family’s shrines, make your offerings to the ducklings in Kita’s pond, surprising Shinsuke and Granny with the osechi ryori you bugged Osamu to teach you how to prepare, candied chestnuts, sweet potatoes, picked lotus roots and sweetened black beans, just to name a few. You don’t even notice your lock turning, your door creaking open, until a heavy hand on your shoulder snaps you awake. 

“There’s nothing in this apartment to steal except food”, you gasp. 

You’re greeted with a wry laugh from your would-be home burglar. “Yes, I’m very well aware of that.” 

A blink. Then you squeal, throw yourself into waiting arms. “Shinsuke!” 

“I can’t believe you thought I was here to rob you”, Kita chuckles, accepting your eager kisses to his cheeks. “You gave me the keys to your place, remember?” 

“Yes, but I wasn’t expecting you to visit me”, you reply, head still in a whirl. “Why are you here? Isn’t Granny ill? Did you drive all the way down here? If you did, you’re crazy - the roads must’ve been jammed, I even heard on the radio there was a snowdrift in Hyogo, did it affect your drive -” 

“Breathe”, Kita says, cupping your cheeks in warm palms. “Slow down, dearest. Let me wish you a Merry Christmas first.” 

“Sorry”, you giggle, pitching forward to kiss him again and again. “I’m just - I’m just surprised. A good surprise! I’m just so - so happy to see you.”

His smile is sweeter than any candied treat he sent you. “I’m happy to see you too. Didn’t want to leave you all alone on our first Christmas together - ”

“Duty comes first”, you reply. “Granny - ”

“She’s fine, really. In fact, she chased me out of the house in the afternoon to see you - she’s looking forward to seeing you in a week’s time, sweetheart.”

“Alright”, you say, placated. “Merry Christmas then, Shinsuke.” 

“Merry christmas, sweetheart”, he replies. “Hope you liked the little present I sent you, with Osamu’s help of course.” 

“It was lovely”, you beam. “But the best present is having you here.” 

Kita throws his head back in amusement. “Maybe I should’ve taken Atsumu’s suggestion to stick a bow on myself and present myself to you in that case.”

You cock your head to one side, consider the proposition of unwrapping Kita Shinsuke. “Maybe you should”, you say slowly, eyeing him from top to bottom. 

He gulps and promptly turns a very fetching shade of bright pink. 

m.list~ taglist.~ 

a/n: hope you like this little piece! 

[shinsouskitten]

How they smell

dont ask

Warnings: idk bro is there such a thing as a smell warning?, reference to death with dabi bc its dabi, hawks binging kfc again

---

King Explosion Murder, more commonly referred to as 💥 Bakugou smells of sweat and smoke - no surprises there - but also caramel, and a little too much spray on deodorant. It’s not overwhelming, kind of soothing in fact when it’s left behind on his hoodies that you not-so-secretly steal. The caramel and smoke mixed together is unusual, almost like a barbecue gone wrong and a pound of sugar piled on top to quell the flames.

---

💜 Shinsou smells like lavender, just like the diffuser on his bedside table meant to help with his insomnia. There’s also the strong undertone of coffee, for when the diffuser doesn’t work. It’s sweet - sugar but no milk - and warm like a hug that fills the air around you. The lavender swirls in soft circles, threatening to lull you to sleep at the behest of the coffee which streams its way into your nostrils.

---

Pikachu himself, ⚡ Kaminari, smells of energy drinks, with a slight aftertone of metallic elements. It’s the kind of smell you’d expect from batteries - if they had a scent - but for Kaminari it seems fitting. It’s energizing (I have such a way with words), exhilarating almost, and fills you with a rush of adrenaline whenever he walks into a room.

---

💙🔥 Dabi smells of leather, singed hair, and charred cotton. The remains of those he incinerated hang around him in the air in the short moment before he strolls into your room and simply falls onto your bed in exhaustion, but it's the smell of the burnt clothes that stick to him. A villain such as himself isn’t expected to smell of sunshine and rainbows, but there’s something soothing about the fact that it all fades away when he comes home, leaving instead smelling of you.

---

Something tells me 🏃💨 Iida smells of pencil sharpenings and freshly printed books, a side effect of his time spent organizing school equipment as class rep. The pipes on his suit leave a metallic aftertaste on his clothes for a few hours after training, but with his diligent time spent in the shower, it doesn’t last for long.

---

🍗 Hawks, quite unsurprisingly, smells of chicken, but also fresh, untainted air, a gift brought down from his constant flights high in the sky. He practically douses himself in cologne whenever he plans a date with you - an attempt to disguise the whole bucket of kfc chicken he inhaled prior to getting changed. The cologne is expensive, some gift from the hero commission, but he doesn’t really pay enough attention. He just doesn’t wanna smell of chicken.

---

It’s ironic, but ❄️🔥 Shoto smells like peppermint, the same as his body wash. He doesn’t understand why you find it so amusing, but if it makes you happy then he’s happy. It’s not overwhelming, not the kind of mint that makes your mouth water and our eyes sting, but the softer kind, that has a cooling effect without turning your entire mouth into Antarctica. After training, there’s always the slight smell of ash, from when he accidentally uses his fire quirk and half destroys yet another poor shirt.

---

idk why i did this

[grey-sides]

Day 26 of chrisbitchtree's Harringrove April, "ghost." Yesterday's response is here. Today's entry is a little more Steve-centric from Billy's POV!

Billy is glad he can’t talk to ghosts or see the dead, he doesn’t want to know how many ghosts trail him every day. If he wanted to, he could probably picture all their faces, all the people he helped kill, and standing at the front of the line is his mother. But he tries not to think about it too hard and when he gets a chance, he lights a candle in honor and stares into its flame.

Steve is not a crier. Billy can count on one hand the number of times he’s seen Steve cry. He didn’t even cry when Billy busted his face and tried to kill him. But without fail, Steve ends his yearly get-together with Nancy in tears. Never heaving sobs or loud wails, just a few tears rolling down his cheeks when Jonathan comes to pick her up. And he never tells Billy either, what sets him off or why he has to do this every year, but he can figure it out.

Billy may have a veritable army following his every step, but Steve only has one ghost. And she hangs on his shoulders and she reminds him that he was a selfish teenager. Billy has never met her, but he’s heard Steve talk about her in a soft voice, trying to find a reason that she was taken when any number of assholes could have been out there instead. She is why Steve’s bedroom curtains remain firmly closed and she is the embodiment of Steve’s guilt.

Steve’s ghost is named Barb Holland and Billy understands that it took Steve a few years to recognize her. That in the initial aftermath, he did not feel guilt or much of anything toward her. That it was easier to see himself as a blameless third party, but that is no longer the case.

Billy knows a thing or two about latent guilt, about turning over a stone on the way through trauma and finding a rabbit hole underneath it. He knows about twisting and turning until you land on the ground and your chest is crushed by an elephant’s worth of emotions you didn’t even know you had. Steve may not be a crier, but Billy has seen him staring off into space and he has seen his face after he has his vigil with Nancy.

Billy knows how long the vigils have been happening because they started the year after he came back. Steve had told him, late one night, that it was time to remember and he wanted to do it with Nancy because they were both responsible. Billy couldn’t even find it in himself to be worried about Steve falling for Nancy again through their shared trauma when he saw how awkward they still were around one another.

But their vigils happen like this, Jonathan drives Nancy over in the evening and hangs out in the kitchen with Billy. They bring a bucket of KFC, every time, and Steve and Nancy work on a letter they’ll never send together. Billy isn’t certain that it’s healthy, but it seems to be the only time Steve really thinks about what the years have done to them all. He doesn’t dwell on the Russians or the demdogs. He doesn’t think about the what-ifs or any of the times he’s willingly stepped in front of danger. Because those aren’t his ghosts.

Billy has figured it out, where Steve’s guilt sits in his chest. Steve is brave and he faces danger head on, it’s why he doesn’t care about the missed swings. He doesn’t ruminate on the things he’s tried to make better, he does not find serenity in trying to find meaning in the things he’s failed at. He only harbors guilt for the things he never realized he had a chance to change.

Nancy is on her way out, and Jonathan is standing by the door. Billy used to think he was just a lamppost or something, just waiting for the world to pass him by. But he gets it now, how Jonathan is steady in a rapidly flowing stream, someone to hang onto when the going gets tough. He’s like Steve in his own quiet way and Billy understands why Nancy gravitated to him.

Steve is adding the letter to the stack they keep and he keeps wiping at his cheeks with his sleeves. The letters won’t ever be unsealed, maybe they’ve written the same thing every year they’ve done this, Billy isn’t sure. When the drawer closes and Steve turns the fancy little key on it, Nancy grabs him around the middle. They hug for an extended period and Billy knows from experience that Steve’s sweater is going to be damp on the chest from her tears.

When they break apart, Nancy wipes her eyes and smiles at Steve. “Thank you,” she says, squeezing his hand as she steps back, retreating to Jonathan’s side.

“Any time,” Steve replies, voice soft and kind. He follows them to the door, closing it with a wave behind Nancy and Jonathan and he waits there for a moment before turning back to Billy. His eyes are red-rimmed and his lashes are dark with the tears he shed earlier, but he musters up a smile anyway. “Thanks for letting us do that.”

Billy opens his arms, letting Steve tuck in close. He strokes over his hair and presses a kiss to his temple. “Does it help?”

Steve nods and Billy can feel warm tears on his shoulder. “It does, I know it doesn’t make sense, but it does,” he whispers, hands clenching against the back of Billy’s shirt.

“It doesn’t have to make sense to me,” Billy promises because he knows his own rituals don’t make sense to anyone else. And that’s alright, it’s one night a year that Steve dwells on Barb Holland’s death.

When Steve gets himself together, he cleans up the living room, throwing out the KFC bucket and wiping down the coffee table. They curl up together on the couch to watch reruns of Star Trek, Steve leaning into Billy’s embrace. Steve falls asleep not even a full episode in. He’s always exhausted when Nancy leaves and Jonathan has shared that Nancy tends to sleep on the ride back to Hawkins.

Billy wakes him enough to send him to bed, watching Steve stumble down the hall to their bedroom. He probably hasn’t even opened his eyes to do it, just relied on the wall and knowing their apartment like the back of his hand. Billy finishes out the episode, with the TV turned down low to not wake up Steve.

When the episode closes out, Billy turns off the TV. It’s silent in the apartment, but warm and relaxed, he’s not straining for some out-of-place sound. There’s a candle burning on the mantle of the fireplace in the corner, which Billy gets up to blow out. Steve lit it earlier in the day, whispering Barb’s name into the smoke. He pushes the lid onto the candle, watching the smoke collect inside it so it doesn’t set off the fire alarm.

On his way out of the room, Billy shuts off the living room light and puts Barb Holland to rest for another year. Tomorrow, Steve’s shoulders will be lighter and his smile will come a little easier. He won’t even look at the drawer with the locked letters and Barb Holland will perch lightly on his shoulders and remind him how far he’s come.

[1ddotdhq]

Fri 22 Jan ‘21

 The BIG news is that the Zaby has a NAME: Baby Khai! We found out late last night because Gigi changed her insta bio to “Khai’s mom”, and thoroughly shocked us all by doing so! Turns out, “Khai” means “royalty”, which she basically *is*, isn’t she - even if “Malik” DIDN’T mean king! Zayn tattooed baby Khai’s name to his wrist, and Zstans on twitter are SWOONING, but all of that swoon quickly switched focus when Zayn showed up on instagram to take over for Billboard. Honestly, it’s very cute! There are a BUNCH of videos of him in his electric blue hair, unpacking cardboard cutouts of the NIL art, riding a four wheeler outside (at the farm?), and telling fans to stream NIL over various tracks. He also rocked and awesome NIL beanie (swipe up for merch!) and a multi-colored “Z Vision'' Snapchat filter that looks a lot like infrared vision, and then he ended the social media heavy day with an instagram post of him in a UFC hat, saying “who’s as excited as me @UFC?” Honestly? Liam, probably. Or Harry and Louis, if they like WATCHING boxing as much as they like practicing the sport!  

We got to hear more about Niall’s history with JC Stewart: “We were both working with the same producer at the time and it just happened...by the end of the song I’m like ‘did we just write a song together?’’. JC Stewart goes on to say that while this song was written over email (from different rooms!) rather than in person, they’ve “hung out loads” because JC used to live with one of Niall’s best friends and sometimes Niall would just be chillin’ in the kitchen of their “grotty apartment” eating their beans. “I’m like, ‘surely you have nicer places to be?”, JC jokes. Ah, but could he be shirtless in those nice places? Likely so but STILL! Meanwhile on twitter, Niall said that most of his songs are first written as a piano ballad and then changed to fit the tempo, he confirmed he would be going to the Masters (a golf tournament) if they let him in (is...anyone surprised by this?), and he said “Yeahhhhhhhhhh” about ANNEMARIE DISHING ON THEIR COLLAB! “I love him, and I love the songs we did,” she told Hits Radio today. Uh, surely she can’t just leave it at that!! Tell us MORE please!! 

And speaking about DISHING on the guys, a former SNL crew member talked about the boys’ requests when they visited the show (as a band, though I’m pretty sure fans who were asking about Harry wanted to know about his solo show lmao). He said that the guys were - surprise, surprise - OBSESSED with KFC, and that once, they ordered FIFTY buckets of chicken (“I get it, they’re growing boys, but who could finish that much??”), and then they, uh, didn’t finish it, so they asked the crew to give it to the fans waiting in line for the show: “those fans got One Direction leftovers!”. He also says he vividly remembers Harry’s golden Saint Lauren boots and that H can “rock a pair of skinny jeans” (and what he means by that is that every jaw drops!). He also mentioned that the guys got a haircut IN the dressing room and the hairstylist did not clean it up: “Be honest, how much would you pay for a lock of Harry Styles’ hair?” Uh, honestly? You couldn’t pay me to keep it! 

Elsewhere, Walls became the #1 Pop Best Seller on both CDs and Vinyl Amazon after a UA tweeted that it was back in stock (KING SHIT!), Isaac Anderson (Louis’ guitarist!) reminisces on a concert with Louis from a year ago, ET insists that the Holiva pap pictures from Jeff’s wedding were “absolutely not leaked or staged for some sort of promotional reason”, but were instead spontaneous happenstance so keep that in mind next time you think about considering them a reliable source, we got a massive amount of previous unseen videos released by Dunkirk’s stunt director (like..he directs physical stunts, not...oh, you know what I mean!) of H goofing off with the Dunkirk cast and crew including leggings clad workout shots, boxing, bundled up for the cold babie Harry and one where he’s feeding a crew member a massive slice of...tomato? I think there’s a fruit joke somewhere in there, but I leave it to you to make it!

[princess-of-inarizaki]

So, as I promised, Inarizaki New Year request. Inarizaki boys and manager make party at her place, they prepare dinner, decorate the Christmas tree and her home (twins hang the mistletoe everywhere, but manager-chan is clueless so she doesn't know about kissing tradition), exchange gifts, have sleepover etc. Next day they all go together to the shrine and all boys ask to marry her. And they are EMBARRASSED when manager asks them what they ask.

Ahhh Tilli my love! I'll finally use this as a Christmas and New year one combined (eventho they've both passed a long time ago :) and this will be the final addition to the Inarizaki December series!

Once again, thank you so much for supporting me through it all, and showering love on every day's imagine. I didn't expect to get 100-200 notes on some days, but I did!! And I'm really ever so grateful. I hope you'll stay tuned :D

-

Inarizaki's manager-chan day 25!!

Late merry Christmas!! 💖 (And happy new year)

☃️

It was finally the seventh day of Christmas.

The day everyone looked forward to, filled with so much cheer and joy. The boys couldn't wait to spend it at your house. (They couldn't spend the actual day of Christmas with you, due to clashes in the schedule), but that's okay. They were here now.

It was unorthodox, to decorate the tree and give gifts days after the 25th, but it didn't matter to you, and if it didn't matter to you, it didn't matter to the boys either.

The house was warm, and you were busy baking cookies. The smell of gingerbread and peppermint floated in the air. Suna snuck up behind you and took a dab of the cookie mixture. “I rate this a 10/10”

Kita glared at him. “Suna that wasn't very hygienic” which only caused you to laugh.

Christmas carols were playing from the small Bluetooth speaker near the tree, and you suddenly felt like dancing. After wiping your hands dry and shutting the oven so the cookies could bake, you pulled Kita to you and placed your hands on his shoulder.

“Dance with me, Kita-san”

His eyes sparkled as his cheeks heated up.

“Of course, my lady.”

And the rest of the members watched enviously as you spun around with Kita in tow. You looked gorgeous, and so undeniably happy.

“My turn!” said Atsumu indignantly as he replaced Kita. He pulled your waist closer to him as he picked you up and twirled you around. Your squeals made his heart beat faster as he gently let you go.

“That's enough dancing for one day, now go decorate the tree or something. These cookies will be done soon and me and y/n need to decorate them.” said the gray haired twin.

The boys nodded as they made their way to the big tree in the living room, whilst you were left alone in the kitchen with Osamu.

Osamu swiped a bit of frosting on your cheek and laughed, as he put on the oven mitts, readying himself to take the cookies out of the oven.

You laughed and licked the frosting off.

Damn. Osamu's brain almost short-circuited, but he pushed such thoughts out of his mind and instead focused on the cookies.

“How shall we ice them?”

You mixed food colouring into the frosting bowls and explained you wanted to ice them according to each of the members.

“We'll use white for Kita! Since he's so dedicated and wonderful, white suits him best. And green for Tsumu, because he makes me feel happy and fresh inside.”

Osamu nodded with a small smile. “And what about me?”

“Purple for you, because I feel comfortable with you, you're basically my home. And red for Rin, because red is a sleepy colour, and I just love napping on his lap.”

“Oh and blue for Aran! He makes me feel safe inside. Orange for Akagi, he's such a cheerful person, he's like my very own sunshine.”

Osamu blushed and stroked your cheek gently. “You're my little home too, ya know that? I'm icing yours pink.”

Pink for the way you make me blush, my love.

You beamed at him and began icing the cookies, delicately and carefully, whilst Osamu iced the other half.

-

The rest of the boys finished decorating the tree as they took a step back to admire their work.

Suna gently adjusted the baubles, before taking a few pictures. He wanted to capture this moment forever.

Suddenly, you and Osamu came to the room with a mixture of cookies and a few mugs of hot chocolate and marshmallows.

Akagi smiled as he placed a kiss on your cheek before snagging a cookie. “Aww you guys are the best, thank you!”

The snow slowly fell outside, as the tree sparkled proudly in the center of the living room.

“Hey we still need to put the angel on top!”

Atsumu jokingly picked you up in his arms “we have one right here, shall I put her on top of the tree?”

The boys laughed as they passed you the tiny angel figurine. “we can't reach it anyways, why don't you put it instead?" Said Aran with a small smile.

Atsumu lifted you up gently as you placed the angel on the top of the tree, completing the decoration process.

“Thanks, you guys are amazing. I'm so lucky to have you.”

Your words were met with a chorus of "I love you's" and "me too's"

And you laughed, as Atsumu pulled you closer to him.

“Tsumu, you can put her down now” said a disgruntled Osamu.

-

[ 2 hours earlier ]

Osamu: have you placed the mistletoe in random spots?

Atsumu: yes, what about you?

Osamu: yeah, but I've kept one in my pocket. I'll just put it up whenever we're alone and it show to her.

Atsumu: damn that's so smart, why didn't I think of that? :(

Osamu: cuz yer' stupid.

Atsumu: >:(

-

[present time]

You and the boys play tons of games in the living room, and stash their gifts underneath the tree too.

“Let's open then tomorrow morning! We'll sleep in here too, and it will be fun to open them as soon as we wake up.” you say happily.

Suna leans on your shoulder throughout the evening, and soon his head makes its way to your lap, as usual.

You laugh and ruffle his hair, as he looks up at you breathlessly. You're so beautiful to him. So undeniably gorgeous. Atsumu wasn't lying when he called you an angel.

Suna's pupils dilated as he stared into your eyes. “I love you, y/n”

Not hearing the sincerity and hidden meaning behind his words, you replied with a quick “I love you too, Rin-rin”

And frankly, even if you didn't know how much he truly meant it, it didn't matter. He'd make sure you did, someday.

-

The plate of cookies were left with only crumbs and the mugs were all empty.

The next part of the night was dinner, and since Kita was the only one who could drive, he'd take you out to pick it up.

“Let's go Y/n-san” said Kita, as a tired Suna whined when he had to lose your lap-pillow.

You nodded and followed him, fastening the seatbelt in the passengers seat as you winked at the boys. “Be good while we're gone, okay?”

Kita turned up the radio. It was a song he didn't particularly like, but you seemed to love. However, you switched the radio off.

“Y/n-san, don't you like this song? Why did you change it?”

“Because you don't like it, Kita-san, and I want to talk to you. Your voice is better than any song.” was your simple reply.

No beating around the bush, you were ever so straightforward, and yet it made Kita's heart beat faster.

“so what would you like to talk about?”

And it started from there. A car-ride filled with the voices of the both of you.

At the traffic light, Kita gave you a sideways glance as he saw your excited expression talking about the cookies you baked.

But frankly he wasn't listening anymore. he was admiring the way your eyes shone in delight, and your cheeks as they were pink from the cold. He smiled at the way your face seemed to light up, and at the beautiful smile etched into it.

And Kita found that beautiful.

“It was delicious, right? And the frosting was beautiful too?” you finished excitedly, by asking him.

“she really is beautiful” said Kita in a trance, as the light turned red and he snapped out of it.

“I mean, yes, the frosting was beautiful!”

-

After picking up a bucket of KFC, as it's traditionally eaten to celebrate Christmas, the boys greeted you at the door.

“Mom and dad are home” joked Akagi.

“Oh my, so that means y/n's our mommy?” said Atsumu seductively, which earned him a sharp kick from Osamu. “Hey Tsumu, shut the hell up.”

The table was set and filled with cheer and banter from all sides, as Akagi sat next to you, and plated everything out.

You sighed happily. Truthfully, you weren't aware of traditions in Japan, since you were new to the country, but the boys taught you every day. It was Osamu who informed you that people in Japan ate their Christmas dinners at KFC.

“It's kinda like a tradition here” he said, with a small shrug. And you were determined to stick to those traditions.

“Are there any other traditions you practice, here? During Christmas?” you asked, in between bites.

Atsumu smirked at you and held up a small plant. “This is called mistletoe, but I won't tell you what the tradition related to it is”

You were confused, because all the other boys had suddenly turned red, and no matter how much you asked them, they refused to tell you what the significance of mistletoe was.

“Hmm, weird” you said softly, as you finished dinner, and brought your plate to the kitchen to be washed.

As you walked out, you noticed a small sprig of mistletoe above you, and a tall presence looming over you...

-

[ hello!! This is route time!! There are six members which I have written mistletoe routes for, and the corresponding colours will be for each member, so read whichever you want to!!]

(pink is the general route. no matter which route you choose, the new year's day story will continue with the general route, so please keep that in mind.)

-

Kita

Osamu

Aran

Atsumu

Akagi

Suna

-

You looked up and saw Akagi, and he had a bunch of other dishes in his hands. “I've lost a bet, so they've made me wash their dishes”

Atsumu's gleeful voice could be heard as he egged his senpai on. “make sure they're spotless, Akagi!”

You took half of the plates from Akagi kindly and assured him you'd help him.

“my hands are wet anyways. It'd be a bother to dry them after washing only one plate”

“T-thanks” he stuttered softly.

-

As you and Akagi washed the plates side by side, he felt a slight tug in his chest. It felt so domestic, to come home to you, hug you in his arms, and do the most mundane of tasks with you, like washing the dishes like this.

He wouldn't mind anything, honestly. As long as he was with you, the most grueling of chores would become fun.

And as he saw your brows furrowed in concentration, he sighed. You looked ever so adorable like that.

“Y/n-chan, I don't know if I've told you this yet, but you look very beautiful today.”

It took a lot of courage. Everyone saw him as a jokester, a perpetually happy person, but with you he wanted to be different.

He wanted you to know that when he complimented you like that, he wasn't joking. Not the least bit.

A soft tint could be seen on your cheeks as you continued washing the plates. “why thank you, Akagi. You look really nice too ”

And somehow, with that one compliment, you made Akagi happier than he had ever been.

The kitchen was filled with comfortable silence, and you appreciated the presence of the tall raven-haired libero who stood next to you, as he swore this scene would repeat itself in the future, someday, but with you as his girl.

-

The late dinner left everyone in a lazy mood, and although the Bluetooth speakers played more music, it became softer, more calm, and everyone felt ready to sleep.

The sleeping bags were arranged in the living room, in a small semicircle as you laid yours next to Atsumu.

“I didn't want to be alone in my room, knowing you guys were just outside, so I hope you don't mind if I slept here too” you said with a small blush.

The boys were overjoyed and eagerly made more space for you.

“I hope it won't be uncomfortable for you, y/n-san.”

You shook your head and settled into the sleeping back. “thank you for the concern, Kita-san, but you guys are here! how could I possibly be uncomfortable at all?”

You laid down in your sleeping bag as Aran leaned over to switch the lights off.

“Big day tomorrow. Let's all get some rest.”

A silent exchange of "goodnight's" was all you could hear, before complete silence, signalling their exhaustion.

But Atsumu, who was laying down next you was far from asleep.

He turned to the side to face you, his eyes reflecting the moonlight beautifully.

“I'm cold” you whispered, as you shifted in your sleeping bag uncomfortably. Atsumu's heart started beating uncontrollably as he made space in his own sleeping bag for you.

“Let's cuddle. Body heat is still heat, right beautiful?”

You smiled gratefully as you slipped in next to him, and his arms wrapped around you protectively.

His mind began to wander, and like Akagi, he wondered if he could get used to this. To coming home after a hard day and slipping into bed with you.

To keeping you warm on cold nights, and holding you if you had a nightmare.

As his fingers gently stroked through your hair, you sighed softly and cuddled closer to his chest in a dream-like state.

You had fallen asleep in his arms, just like he had dreamt for so often, and he couldn't wait till he'd be able to have you with him every single night.

Every single night for the rest of forever. Atsumu wanted to spend every single one of them with you.

He smiled softly as he observed your sleeping features before pressing a gentle kiss to your forehead.

“You'll truly be the death of me, y/n”

-

You awoke many times in the middle of the night, but with Atsumu's firm grip on you, and his comforting body heat, you had no trouble falling back asleep again.

Soon, sunlight began to stream through the windows and the small beams of light slowly caused you to wake up.

The boys were all still asleep, so you gently pried yourself off Atsumu, gave him a gentle kiss to his cheek, and tip-toed to the kitchen, to make breakfast.

Aran, who had incredibly sensitive ears, heard the shift of the fridge door, and woke up. In a groggy-like state, he walked over to you and hugged you from behind.

“good morning” he whispered softly. “can I help you with breakfast?”

Although he wasn't naturally a cook, your patient instructions and kindness proved to be all he needed, and the two of you made a pile of pancakes, drizzled in maple syrup.

By now, the rest of the boys were also awake, they were better than greyhounds when it came to sniffing out food you've made.

But as Aran helped you around the kitchen, he couldn't focus on the others. He couldn't focus on anyone but you.

You, with your messy hair and half lidded eyes. With your low morning voice and small smile. You were so comfortable being yourself, and he really was glad.

Morning-y/n, the y/n only they got to see this morning, was pretty darn adorable. And he wanted her to know that.

“you're so cute when you're still half asleep, ya know?”

Although his voice has a teasing edge, a ring of laughter behind it, Aran wanted you to know that.

“aww thanks Aran, I like your morning voice too” you said with a dopey smile, as your flipped another pancake.

Suna stole one from off the plate and nibbled on it “I rate this a 10/10 too”

“Oh no Kita's glaring at me. I never tasted it in the first place”

-

After breakfast, presents, tons of hugs, and an outfit change later, the Shrine came into view. It was the first day of the new year, and as per the tradition of praying at the shrines for good luck, you and the team were heading there to welcome the new year with hopes and dreams.

“So, you have to clap twice, and wish for whatever it is your head desires for this year” said Akagi with a smile.

The rest of the boys had their eyes screwed shut, as they prayed for their deepest desire; to marry you someday.

Your wish was not so different either. “I wish to be able to be by their sides forever. For their good health, happiness, and safety. I love them.”

As you laid your eyes on their figures, hunched over the shrine, you swore you would do anything to make your wish a reality.

“I love you guys. Happy new year.!!”

-

taglist : @raychii @dai-tsukki-desu @k-sakusa-old @pocket-of-anxiety @sunasthing @thatthangwasthangin @daydreamingtetsu @ignorantsock @ohrintarou @tilli-san

The professor's note: 😭broooo so I'm like finally done?? This was so long I hope you guys enjoy it <3 (it took like 3 days to perfect it, so likes and reblogs are very much appreciated uwu)

[namariea]

Devil’s Advocate | I

“So for argument’s sake... let’s just say Do Kyungsoo really is the boring square you say he is..” 

“Don’t you want to find out what makes him tick?”

Pairing: Kyungsoo x Reader

Words: 4.4k

Genre: Romance, Slowburn, Smut

It started with a knock on your door.

“Jongin is coming over tonight, that cool?”

Looking up from your laptop screen, you stared at your roommate who was leaning against your doorway. Blinking slowly, you processed her words.

“Jongin is coming over.”

“Yes, that’s what I just said.”

“And will Mr. Kim be staying over?”

“That would be a correct assumption, yes.”

“Sleeping in your room.”

“Why, did you want him to sleep here with you? Not what I was expecting, but I’m all down for polygamy.”

With a sigh, you saved the document you were working on and began to close your laptop. Collecting the various papers and books scattered around you, you began to tuck them away neatly into your backpack. Sliding off of the bed, you walked the length of the room and began to rifle through your drawers, pulling out some clothes.

Frowning, Jennie walked over to you and looked over your shoulder as you began refolding them and putting them in a gym bag.

“What are you doing?”

“I have a paper I need to finish proofing for tomorrow and I highly doubt I will get any work done with the two of you going at it like animals.”

Jennie didn’t even look fazed at the comment, shrugging non committedly while throwing some pajama shorts your way. Rolling your eyes you passed through the joined bathroom and threw in your toiletries. As you were zipping up your bag a knock came at the door causing you to pause.

Well, that was fast.

Turning around, you looked at the brunette behind you with raised eyebrows, and only then she had the decency to look the slightest bit sheepish.

“Have I told you how much I love you today?”

With your roommate trailing at your heels blabbering about how you are the greatest roommate ever and how she owes you a life debt, you opened the front door and were greeted with Jongin holding what appeared to be a party sized bucket of KFC. Before he could open his mouth you stuck out your hand, waiting.

Blinking down at your outstretched palm, he gave you a confused look.

“Keys. Since you are kicking me out of my bed I’m taking yours”

Jennie snorted behind you as Jongin’s face split into a wide grin.

“You know, I always knew you were a great person.” fishing out his keys from his pocket he handed them to you.

Slinging your bag over your shoulder, you gave the couple a wave of your hand and began to make your way down the hall. You were halfway to the elevators when Jongin's loud voice stopped you.

“Oh by the way, Kyungsoo isn’t around tonight, so feel free to raid the fridge before he gets back.”

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Jongin’s presence at your apartment wasn’t a new occurrence.

In the beginning, it was just him coming over during the day to help Jennie with her design assignments. Which was ok, amazing actually, since it helped her out a lot and saved you dealing with her stress meltdowns.

Then it progressed to Jongin appearing at your dinner table every Friday to partake in Chinese takeout nights. Which was fine, again, since he picked it up on his way over and pitched in. He also somehow was able to sweet talk the old woman who owned the store and managed to get extra egg rolls. Can’t go wrong with that.

It wasn’t until Jennie gave you the look while the older boy excused himself to use the bathroom after one said dinner that you took the hint.

Now, Jongin occasionally stays over during the weekends, where you would find him in the living room at ungodly hours watching the Pirates of the Carribean all the while eating a family sized package of oreo’s. Which was mildly perturbing on two counts. First, was the fact that this was probably the 5th time you’ve seen him watch that movie, and second, those were your oreos.

The final straw was not until the weekend that just past where you were woken up a loud banging. It was not until you were  halfway to Jennie’s door in a frantic scramble that your sleep deprived brain caught up with you and realized it was very much not a violent murder taking place in the room over.

Animals.

It was then you all agreed to establish some sort of door-sock system.

Which in essence was - if Jongin was coming over, it was probably best to just find somewhere else to crash.

You didn’t actually mind leaving as much as you thought you would. Jennie was one of your closests friends and it was clear as day that Jongin made her happy. You didn’t even mind hanging out with the guy, he was fun and always brought snacks in return for practically living at your place. Even if his tastes in movies were highly questionable.

It was just sometimes - like right now where you had a Business Ethics paper due at 7AM - where you needed all the quiet you could get.

Reaching the apartment, you slotted the key into the lock, you pushed open the door to Jongin and Kyungsoo’s apartment. Stepping through the threshold you were greeted by darkness.

Flicking on the lights you took in the apartment. You had been in the apartment a handful of times when Chanyeol threw parties, but this was the first time you had been there on your own, literally.

From the neatly organized coffee table to the dust-less surfaces as far as the eye can see, the state of the apartment very much reflected that of the other owner - there was no way anyone would believe the human tornado that was Kim Jongin lived here otherwise.

Speaking of the other owner -

“Kyungsoo?”

Thank goodness for small mercies.

Do Kyungsoo, best friend of Jongin and probably the biggest enigma you've ever met. Not only was he more reserved and mild tempered in comparison to his flatmate, but he was the only one in your mutual friend group that you couldn’t bring yourself to get close to.

It wasn’t for a lack of trying, mind you. And to Kyungsoo’s credit he has never been rude to you, though you wouldn’t necessarily call it friendly either. Cordial at best...maybe. His deposition towards you, and apparently anyone who didn’t know him before the year 2015 was polite but distant. He was so different from the rest of his friends that one day Jennie had asked Jongin how he and Kyungsoo even lived together.

“We met freshman year-”  Jongin said while spooning a mountain of orange chicken onto his plate.

“We were paired up as roommates and we just clicked - Kyungsoo is a great guy, he’s actually pretty hilarious”

“Really?” Jennie leaned in, abandoning her lo mein to gape at the man next to her.

“Its true!” Jongin said defensively at her expression, “how do I explain it-"

"You kind of have to approach him first, and then see how he responds. He just needs time to warm up to you, you'll see."

Now, you weren’t sure if Kyungsoo had ‘warmed up to you’ yet, but you definitely saw the man’s look of disgust as he caught you making kraft dinner in the microwave that one time during finals last semester.

Hot tip - never make microwave kraft dinner in front of a Culinary Arts major.

Checking your watch and noting it was half past ten, you settled down cross-legged at the coffee table in the living room. Pulling out your laptop and notes, you organized it all in front of you before rolling your neck and flexing your fingers.

“Now, where was I-”

After what seems like the hundredth time going over the same words over and over again, desperately making sure you didn’t have any spelling mistakes and that your citations were all correct, you finally hit save for the last time. Tapping the screen of your phone you brought it up to your face as you leant back against the couch, squinting as the time appeared.

2:35 AM

Stretching, you lifted yourself from your sitting position and began packing your laptop and papers away.

Exhausted, you crawled your way up onto the couch, pulled the Captain America themed throw blanket over your tired body, and closed your eyes, waiting for sleep to take you.

Which should have been an easy task.

Except Jongin apparently decided to buy the cheapest couch in Ikea.

No wonder the man lived on your sofa, he has never known true comfort.

Huffing, you sat up begrudgingly, groaning as your body objected to the movement. You glanced down the darkened hallway and pursed your lips.

Taking your bags you began shuffling down the hallway and stopped in front of one of the doors that was ajar. Slowly pushing it open you hesitantly stuck your head in. The sight of the various Mangas scattered on the floor confirmed that you had found the right bedroom.

I mean, there are worse places to sleep.

Making your way further into the room, you kicked the door closed as you made quick work of stripping out of your clothes and changing into your pajamas. You all but dove into the bed, not caring that it was unmade or that you probably should have changed the sheets. A content sigh escaped you as you sank into the mattress, sleep taking over.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Waking with a start, you were momentarily disoriented as you took in your surroundings. Blinking blearily around, it took a few seconds to remember where you were and why your bed smelled like Old Spice.

Ah, right.

Groaning, you glanced at the window and took in the darkness still.

You tried to close your eyes in hopes that you would be able to catch a few more minutes of sleep. However, instead of slipping into blissful sleep you found yourself tossing and turning, body restless in any position you put it in.

Pressing the heels of your palms into your eyes you lay there for a few moments. Blindly reaching towards the side table you fumbled with your phone, squinting as the screen illuminated your vision.

5:50 am

There is no God.

Finally accepting that you were not going to get any more sleep, you begrudgingly slid out of bed. Stretching, you began to make your way to the door, stifling a yawn as you opened it.

And immediately screamed.

“WHAT THE F- Kyungsoo?”

Standing in front of you was a hooded figure, looking just as startled as you were. Hand grasping the handle leading to the room directly across the hall, Kyungsoo had turned at the sound of Jongin’s door opening and his eyes widened almost comically at your presence.

As the fuzziness of sleep was lifted you realized that it must have been the sound Kyungsoo entering the apartment that woke you up. And judging from the incredulous look he was giving you, Jongin must not have told him you were there. Taking in his baseball cap and casual attire, you felt your eyebrows furrow.

Did he just get back?

You watched as his eyes slid down and you were suddenly very much aware of the lopsided bun that had come half undone in your sleep and the thin material of your pajamas. His eyes then darted from your own to the bedroom and back, eyebrows furrowing.

Your eyes widened at the silent question glinting in those dark eyes. Your hands immediately flew up as you began sputtering.

“It's not what it looks like!“ you began frantically and he only lifted a dark brow higher in a silent bid for you to continue. “Jongin was staying over at our place last night and I came here to give them privacy, you know how they are, it’s like National Geographic except nobody asked for it”

He shot you a bemused look.

You felt yourself flush and looked at the space of the wall next to his head “And well, I didn't get kicked out of my own bed to sleep on a couch… So I slept... in here" gesturing to the bedroom behind you awkwardly.

There was another beat of silence.

Great. Fantastic. Realll smooth. It seemed that without fail, every time you are in the immediate presence of the man across from you, you feel yourself suddenly tense up. Which is stupid, considering the fact that you are friends (distant acquaintances), and have been around each other for months now and got along great (cordial at best), surely by now you can have a normal conversation at the very least.

Speaking of conversation, you also become hyperaware of the fact that the other person in the hallway has yet to say a single word to you. Palms beginning to sweat, you began to scramble to think of something - anything - to cut the silence. As if your insane ramblings weren’t bad enough. He probably thinks you’re even more of a raging lunatic, compounded with what happened last semester. Why, why, of all things why did you have to crave Kraft Dinner for fucks sake-

“I see.”

Your inner monologue was cut short by a low reply. it seemed Kyungsoo deemed your answer acceptable, nodding slowly to himself.

You almost felt your body sag in relief, shifting your weight on the balls of your feet.

As another beat of silence passed, you fidgeted again as you were regarded by the dark haired man. Kyungsoo had yet to make any move towards his own room and you suddenly didn’t know what to do with your hands.

Someone kill me.

You cleared your throat, “Umm...so now that that's cleared up… I’m just going to... go over...there” gesturing to the bathroom. You didn’t even wait for him to answer you as you powered your way past him and slipped into the bathroom, pressing your back against the door as it closed behind you.

You waited with baited breath as you heard silence from the hallway. Eventually after what felt like an eternity, there was a shuffling of feet, and the clicking of a door closing from down the hall.

Silently making the motion of bashing your head against the door, you let out a deep breath. Shaking your head you flicked on the light and picked up Jongin’s papaya face wash.

I mean, that could have been worse.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Making your way across campus, you faltered slightly as a yawn made its way through you. After submitting your paper to your professor's dropbox you had spent the day catching up on the never ending tasks you had on your to-do list. You had holed yourself up at the campus library and it wasn’t until your stomach decided to do its best impression of a Harley Davidson that you decided it was probably best to call it a day.

Pulling out your phone you pulled out a delivery app and started browsing the menu for the greek place a block down from your apartment. Flicking through the menu, you contemplated between the Pork Souvlaki or the Chicken gyro...maybe Jennie would be willing to go half and ha-.

You halted on the sidewalk.

Right.

Jennie.

Jennie who is currently still at your apartment.

With Jongin.

Well, shit.

Switching to your messages you sent a text to Jennie.

You: All clear?

You watched with bated breath as the three dots appeared at the bottom.

A sock emoji.

Lovely.

Sitting down at a nearby bench, you began sending out a barrage of texts.

After about 20 minutes of asking around you found out that Jisoo was out of town seeing her parents, Rose’s apartment building was apparently being fumigated for the second time this month and Seulgi was having Irene and Wendy over and you didn’t think you wanted to be part of whatever freaky party those three were going to have.

With every text that came in you felt yourself slowly deflate more and more. Placing your hand in your jacket, you grasped the keys that were in your pocket. They felt heavier than they should be.

There was one other option.

Grimacing, you flushed as you remembered the painfully awkward conversation you exchanged with a particular dark haired man this morning. There was no doubt in your mind that he would be home if you went over now, and you didn’t even want to begin imagining how this interaction will go.

You bit down on your bottom lip in worry as you brain tried playing out the various scenarios in your head. All in all, Kyungsoo didn’t seem to care all that much this morning, but then again when have you ever seen Kyungsoo care about anything.

Come on, think. Well, what do we know...

He is a mutual friend (questionable), for starters. If you both are able to get along with the dumperfire that is your friend group you have to have something in common.. Right?

You stopped fiddling with the keys in your pocket as the realization hit you.

Pulling up your contacts you scanned down the list before pressing ‘call’.

“Oi, Jongin. Does Kyungsoo like Greek?”

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Turns out no, Kyungsoo does not, in fact, like Greek.

According to Jongin, Kyungsoo is obsessed with this weird hole-in-the-wall Italian place that had handmade pasta. What was supposed to be a 10 minute walk ended up taking 45 minutes as you got lost 3 times, and once you finally found the store the doors were locked. What restaurant shuts down from 3 to 5 on a Friday?

Hipster pasta makers, apparently.

It was lost to you what the appeal was, but if there was anything that you learned in the years as a young adult living on their own, it was that there were two sure-fire ways to bond with someone:

Get drunk

Eat good food while drunk

The latter was not necessarily limited to ‘good’ food - after a few shots to you a McNugget is like a Michelen meal. However you had a gut feeling that Kyungsoo wouldn’t be too welcoming if you showed up with tacos and tequila.

So did you wait around for an hour and a half just to order something you could have bought as Lean Cuisine?

You bet your ass you did.

Because nothing says I’m sorry I know we barely know each other but our friends are banging so were kind of stuck together quite like overpriced spaghetti and meatballs.

Adjusting the paper bag in your arms you walked up to the familiar door. Fumbling with the key you finally managed to wedge it open and stepped through the threshold.

Unlike the last time you entered the apartment, this time you weren’t met with silence. The lights were already on and the sound of the TV filtered throughout the apartment. Toeing off your shoes and arranging them neatly next to the pair by the door.

Arms full of take out you were all of a sudden nervous to turn the corner.

You are once again reminded of the fact that you are very much not close with this man and this will probably be the first time you ever said more than 4 sentences to him in one sitting. And now you are about to have dinner together, alone.

"You kind of have to approach him first, and then see how he responds. He just needs time to warm up to you, you'll see"

Kim Jongin don’t you fail me now.  

Kyungsoo was sitting on the couch looking at his phone when you entered the living room. He immediately looked up and you watched his eyes widen marginally at your presence, clearly not expecting you back.

“I…” The mini speech you had been preparing during the 12 minute walk to the apartment died in your throat as you made eye contact with the dark haired man in front of you. The look he gave you left you momentarily thrown, it was a look that instantly made you think that he was annoyed with you with the way his eyebrows were drawn and the slight frown tugging at the corners of his mouth.

It wasn’t until you saw Kyungsoo’s eyes slide to the bag in your arms briefly, and the slightest flicker of curiosity gave you the courage to push on.

“Jongin is still my place,” you offered, and watched as his eyes flit back to meet your own.

“So,” you continued, shifting the bag in your arms, “I brought some dinner, as a peace offering of sorts, I guess. I hope you’re hungry, because they gave us enough garlic bread to feed a small Italian village.” you let out an awkward laugh.

Kyungsoo looked at you as if you had grown a second head. You didn’t blame him, but you were too far gone to back down now, even if the man was giving you a shoulder so cold it could freeze Sahara.

Making your way into the kitchen you placed the bag on the counter and began taking plates out of the cabinets, trying to keep your trembling hands busy.

Stupid, stupid, this whole idea was stupid.

As you were transferring the food from the containers you heard a slight rustling behind you.

You almost turned around when you didn’t hear anything else, but then a deep voice spoke up, albeit hesitantly.

“Is that from Giulietta’s?”

Stiffening a smile you did not respond to the man immediately when he materialized at your side.

Humming in affirmation you handed him his plate, which he took slowly, eyeing the food suspiciously.

I swear, this guy.

It wasn’t until you had dished out your own plate that you turned to him finally and gave him what you hoped was a friendly smile.

“So, have you watched the new season of Great British Bakeoff?”

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

“Have a nice weekend? Actually don’t answer that, I really don’t want to know.” You didn’t even look up from your laptop as Jennie slid into the seat next to you at your morning lecture.

“Jongin has been doing ballet for years, I swear I never knew a body could bend like-”

“Ew. Gross Jennie, it’s 9AM”

“I have no concept of time anymore, the man wouldn’t let me sleep-”

“Jennifer, please, this is a sacred place.”

“This is Introduction to Environmental Science, most of the people here are too worried about cleaning baby ducks with Dawn soap than to eavesdrop”

Groaning you buried your head in your hands and took a deep breath. You really should have stopped by the Cafe next door and got some coffee, you aren’t nearly coherent enough to deal with this.

“Hey,” Jennie started, pulling you from your thoughts.

“Thanks again for stepping out and giving us the apartment for the weekend, I really appreciate it”

“You’re lucky I like you.

“Oh please-”

“-I barely got out of there alive.”

“Come on, it couldn’t have been that bad.”

It wasn’t, actually.

Last night you and Kyungoo had sat in their living room and watched the Great British Bakeoff while you ate your dinner. You thanked whatever higher power there was that Kyungsoo was not a stickler for eating at the dinner table. Or maybe he was, but also thought this situation was incredibly awkward and also wanted some sort of distraction to avoid having to make small talk.

It wasn’t wholly unpleasant, you actually found yourself mildly enjoying yourself. He was a man of a few words but every now and again he would sprinkle in some choice commentary here and there, making noncommittal noises when a contestant added a new ingredient.

Odd fellow, this one.

He was polite enough to stick around for a couple of episodes before standing and offering to take your plate.

“Would you like something else? Jongin keeps ice cream sandwiches in the fridge”

“Oh...no, I’m ok thanks”

You were absolutely going to have one later.

Giving a curt nod, he walked back to the kitchen to wash the dishes. After a few minutes he returned to the living room, shifting uneasily on his feet. He had this thoughtful, intense expression, almost searching. For what, you had no idea but it made you fidget nonetheless, breaking eye contact and pick at imaginary lint on your sweater.

You were about to make some excuse about needing to go back to the library - because you sure as hell weren’t going to stick around here -  when he mumbled something about having papers to grade before disappearing down the hall to his room without another word.

A few more moments passed before you let out the breath you didn’t realize you were holding.

Well, that’s that I guess.

“It went fine. He was...nice”

“Nice.”

“As nice as you can be with a stranger invading your space unnanounced.”

“So dramatic, it’s not like you two are strangers.”

“I don’t even think he knows my name.”  

“We have all hung out loads of times before-”

“I have spoken to him more in the last 12 hours than I have in the last 12 months”

“And who’s fault is that? If anything, that's progress, you should be thanking me. Kyungsoo’s a hoot”

You leveled her with a look.

“...have I told you how much I love you today?”

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A/N: Had this in my drafts for over 2 years. Hoping by posting I’ll be motivated to actually finish it~

[liittlenightmares]

Weird thought but instead of destroying the music box, mono should of gotten a huge slab of meat then six would definitely be on board

mono walks in with several buckets of kfc and they sit down for a nice meal together. the music is nice. all is well. they immediately begin making hellish food amalgamations by mixing chicken and coleslaw into mashed potatoes, and then dumping their drinks on it. mono dares six to eat it.

all is well.

[cheri-translates]

Headcanon - when he becomes tiny

This work, 当他变小了, was originally written by 君兮耶君兮 on Weibo, and she has given me permission to translate it 🌸

[ VICTOR ] 

“It’s time to get up.”

In response to the voice, you open your eyes blearily to the familiar morning sunlight, the familiar temperature of the room, the familiar decor of the bedroom, and the familiar...

“Who the hell are you? Victor’s illegitimate son?”

You’re alarmed at the sight of a child at Victor’s designated spot next to you.

The innocent-looking, tiny version of Victor wears a blank expression on his face.

Your brain gradually starts functioning again. “You’re... Victor?”

“Idiot.”

It’s him, it’s definitely him! Apart from him, who else would call you an idiot? Evol fluctuations probably caused his body to shrink.

Curious, you give him a pat on the head, then pinch his chubby cheeks, finding this experience incredibly novel. “Victor, you actually look... strangely cute like this.”

He swats your hand away, shifting his tiny body off the bed.

“Where are you going?” No longer feeling the soft touch, you feel slightly disappointed. You stare at his fuzzy hair, and your fingers itch to ruffle it.

“Making breakfast for a certain dummy.” 

Without turning his head, Victor leaves the bedroom, his short legs striding forward clumsily, like a kitten learning how to walk. 

Your maternal instincts are set aflame.

Something occurs to you, and you quickly hop out of bed and run into the kitchen. How’s he going to cook with his current height?

As expected, Little Victor, with his short limbs, is standing in front of the counter wondering how he can reach the knife and chopping board.

“Little Vic, since it’s inconvenient for you, why not go outside and play. Let this big sister take care of the meals today~ I promise to bring you up well!” You hoist him up by the armpits and bring him out of the kitchen, using this opportunity to squish his tiny face.

Considering how long you’ve known him, you can instantly tell from his expression what he’s about to say next. Before he has time to conjure a venomous remark, you hide in the kitchen and shut the door.

The door slams in front of him, and he shakes his head laughably. “Pretty bold.”

After some twists and turns, you finally churn out an edible “breakfast”. When you lay it on the table, Victor is looking through company documents while wearing glasses that are evidently too large for him.

He shifts the laptop to the side. Furrowing his brows, he uses a knife to slice open a slightly blackened poached egg. “Your skills could see an improvement.”

You roll your eyes at him. “Yes yes yes, I can’t possibly compare myself to the skills of the great chef Victor. So I’ll have to trouble Little Vic to bear with it.”

“I’ve taken leave today. After breakfast, there’s an e-meeting I have to attend. When the time comes, attend to it for me.” Finding the food a little salty, Victor holds up the coffee in his hand. Before he even takes a sip, you exchange it with a cup of milk.

“Little children can’t drink adult coffee. You can only grow tall if you drink milk~” You grin while explaining.

His sharp eyebrows furrow slightly. “I’m 28 this year.”

Sizing him up, you click your tongue and sigh. “No matter how fast you grow, this body looks like a six-year-old's.”

“...” Not knowing how to rebut, Victor’s face blackens. When his immature-looking face accompanies this serious expression, he resembles a child who’s throwing a fuss - it’s cute.

After breakfast, you enter the e-meeting. The other high-ranking members of the company notice that CEO Victor isn’t around, and is instead substituted by you. Someone curiously asks, “Did CEO Victor go somewhere?”

Donning an official business-like expression on your face, you respond. “CEO Victor is feeling unwell today. I will be representing him in the meeting, and will convey the contents of the meeting with him in its entirety.”

Following a few concerned pleasantries, the meeting delves into the main topic. You take down notes seriously, posing questions according to the slips of paper Victor hands you. The meeting goes by smoothly.

“Your performance during the meeting wasn’t bad.” Victor flips through your meeting notes, satisfied.

Even though you didn’t understand the purpose of you recording notes when he was right there listening alongside you, you’re thoroughly welcoming of his compliment. Puffing up your chest with pride, you lift your head and say, “Of course. I’m the boss of a production company. Meetings are naturally not a cinch.”

“You’re off in the clouds just after a compliment?” The disjunct between his adorable features and the expression that doesn’t suit his age causes you to burst into laughter. “Victor, stop speaking like that, it’s too unsuitable.”

Victor immediately reverts back to his blank expression, which tickles you even more.

Both of you have taken leave and are staying at home doing nothing, apart from the moments you can’t control your fingers and they knead his cheeks or tousle his hair. Each and every time, he would either swat away or evade your claws. Apart from that, everything has been very peaceful, until...

“Since you’re so small that you’d probably drown if you fall into the bathtub, should I help you bathe?” You suggest earnestly.

Knowing that he can’t convince you otherwise, Victor reluctantly agrees to your request to wash him up.

Standing stark naked in the bathtub, the clear water covers nothing.

You glance at it casually. “When Little Vic becomes smaller, everything else becomes smaller too...”

“...dummy, don’t look.” 

The child’s cheeks are pinkish and tender, and it seems to redden even more after hearing your words.

“Stand here and don’t move. I’ll get the shampoo.” You pat his wet hair and turn around, heading to the shelf to retrieve the bottle of shampoo he uses frequently. 

However, the bathroom floor is too slippery. Accidentally stepping on a puddle of water, your body lunges forwards.

“Be careful!” 

The pain you anticipated doesn’t arrive. Instead, you’re greeted by a warm touch. You flick open an eye.

Victor frowns in pain, his hair dripping with water, sticking to his forehead. There is obvious worry in his eyes. “Are you hurt?”

Your brain is stunned by the depth in his eyes, and you can only nod in a daze. 

Sensing this, Victor’s large hand, which was originally on your waist, travels up your spine slowly. His searing eyes causes your breathing to hitch and your mouth to feel dry.

Satisfied by the effect he has on you, the corners of Victor’s lips twitch slightly.

“A dummy said something she shouldn’t have. Now, are you ready to accept your punishment?”

[ GAVIN ]

“Yes, so sorry to trouble you, Captain Eli. And no, it’s not that serious, you don’t have to specially visit. Thank you for the hard work.” You sit on the sofa while making a call to Eli, asking him to help Gavin apply for leave.

Gavin sits beside you quietly, looking at his tiny hands in a trace-like state. He clenches them, but doesn’t feel the strength he’s familiar with.

“All right, let’s just treat today as a rest day. How long will this last?” Your maternal instincts are set alight when facing this tiny Gavin. Carrying him onto your lap, you can’t help but knead his cheeks.

Gavin doesn’t struggle, letting you do whatever you want. “It won’t be long, but it does feel a little strange...”

“I think it’s very cute. Like this, I really can’t bear to let you go~” You place your right hand on the top of his head, patting his soft hair. He probably said it wouldn’t last long so you wouldn’t worry.

“Ahem... it’s fine as long as you like it.” That’s right - Gavin has always been pampering you, and this remains the same even if he turns tiny.

“Gavin, shall we have KFC for lunch? It’s been such a long time since we’ve eaten it.” You rub your hands together, yearning for the KFC New Orleans chicken wings, chicken popcorn and...

Gavin smiles when he sees how eager you are. “I heard the kid’s meal comes with a Conan toy.”

You’re brought out of your thoughts, and there are almost stars in your eyes. “You really know me too well! Thank you, Little Gavin~” 

Gavin subconsciously reaches out to tousle your hair, but since his short arm can’t reach the top of your head, he lowers his arm and holds your hand instead.

Leading him out of the house, you suddenly feel as though you’re holding onto your son. Your eyes crinkle as you tug on his hand. “Today, Little Gav has to follow his mother closely.”

“Cough cough cough cough...” As though you gave him a shock, Gavin chokes violently. With a slight redness in his cheeks, he says your name softly. You laugh, carrying him to the backseat of the car and fastening his seat belt before settling yourself into the driver’s seat.

“Drive more-”

“Drive more slowly - I’ve heard these three words so many times already.” You cut him off before he can finish. Somehow, causing Little Gavin to blush is even more interesting than usual. 

Gavin furrows his brows and changes his words.

“Then, be careful.”

Considering how there’s a ‘child’ in the car, you drive as smoothly as possible, reaching the nearest KFC in the shopping mall only after half an hour. 

“A kid’s meal, a Beijing chicken roll, and a 10-piece chicken bucket. Little Gav, do you want popcorn chicken?” You turn your head to Little Gavin, who is behind you.

He retrieves a mobile phone from the Mickey Mouse backpack you forced him to carry, and hands it to you. “If you want it, just order it.”

"I’ll have the big portion then.” You unlock the phone with your fingerprint, showing the payment code to the clerk. After scanning the code, the clerk takes out a Conan toy and gives it to Gavin.

“Little boy, this is a toy which comes with the kid’s meal.”

Gavin takes the toy from her hand and stores it into the bag. 

There aren’t many people, and most of the patrons are parents with their children. Originally, the two of you planned to pretend to be a mother-son duo and leave quietly after eating. However, a girl around the same height as Little Gavin walks over.

“Little brother, would you like to play in the children’s playground?” The girl’s face is red, her cheeks plump, and the pigtails on her head sway with her movements adorably.

“No he can’t.” You refuse the little girl’s request even before Gavin speaks. 

The girl turns her pleading gaze towards Gavin, who’s helping you get ketchup. He frowns. “I’m not going.”

Perhaps never experiencing such treatment before, the little girl’s eyes immediately turn misty, and it looks as though tears are about to spill from them. Feeling as though you’ve bullied her, you soften your voice and comfort her.

“Little girl, this brother isn’t feeling well today, so he can’t play with you, sorry about that.” 

The child’s mother quickly comes over to apologise, takes the girl away, and compliments your “son” for being both cute and handsome.

After seeing that they’ve walked a distance away, you rub your chin thoughtfully and lower your voice, teasingly saying, “Even as a kid, Senior attracts the eyes of the opposite sex.”

Gavin takes out the Conan toy and hands it to you. “I didn’t expect my girl to feel jealous over a child.”

You dip a fry into ketchup and feed it to him. “I’m not the sour one - it’s the ketchup!”

[Note] In Chinese, jealousy is 吃醋 (”chi cu” - loosely translated to “eating vinegar”. So when MC says she’s “not the sour one”, it’s a pun!

After lunch, the both of you decide to head home to rest since the weather is too hot to remain outside. 

Travelling at noon on a hot summer day causes a sheen of sweat to appear on both of your bodies. 

After returning home, you head to separate bathrooms to have a shower. When Little Gavin steps out, wrapped in a bath towel that is usually only enough to cover his lower body, you can’t help but laugh.

“Gavin, are you wearing a tube top?”

He frowns, lifting the bath towel which is threatening to fall. “The only thing I have is that set of clothes which turned small along with me. I can’t wear anything else.”

You poke his tummy and hug him close to your chest. “Good boy, it’s time to go to sleep~”

The air-conditioning makes the room temperature just right, and you fall asleep to the sound of each other’s breathing. 

When you awake, the little person in your arms is gone. Instead, you’re resting on a firm arm. A naked man props his head on his palm next to you, smiling and gazing at you tenderly as if he wants to engrave your appearance, the intoxicating sunset, and the beautiful scene of summer on his heart forever. 

You can’t help but stare at his tender and clear face. In the cramped space, the sound of your breathing is amplified.

“Slept too much?” he breaks the silence.

Something occurs to you and you ask in surprise, “Did you know when you’d change back?”

“Mm.” Gavin lowers the arm supporting his upper body and lays down again, reaching out to hug you into his arms. His chin rests on top of your head, and the familiar touch sends tingles down your spine. 

The arms around your waist tighten, and his voice is low and hoarse. 

“Don’t move. I've been holding back for a long time.”

[ LUCIEN ]

You’re pretty sure you’re either still asleep, or having a hallucination. After shaking your head a few more times, the scene in front of you remains unchanged. 

You hold one side of the table to prevent yourself from falling to the ground from dizziness. In front of you is Lucien, his eyes crinkled with a smile... to be more precise, he’s a smaller version of Lucien.

"Lucien, what happened to you?!” You have no idea how to react to the sight before you. “Were you attacked by Voldemort's black magic?" 

Lucien waves your hands away in resignation, and says comfortingly. “It’s likely Evol fluctuations. It shouldn’t last long.”

Curious, you tug at his hair. “Is this for real? Mm, much cuter than usual.”

He takes your hand from the top of his head and holds it tightly. “Didn’t we agree to visit the bookstore to pick out books together today? Aren’t you going to prepare?”

"Are you sure you can still go to the bookstore like this?" You ask in uncertainty, looking at his small frame.

“If it’s something I agreed with you, I’ll definitely fulfil it.” He looks at you with a smile, his eyes gentle and firm, channelling ripples in your heart. Seeing you staring at him in a daze, he chuckles. "Go change your clothes, little fool.

You nod blankly, turning around to head into the room.

-

There are twice as many patrons in the bookstore over the weekend as compared to normal. Book lovers are either shuttling through the bookshelves or reading quietly with a cup of coffee in front of them. 

In contrast to the quietness in this area, the children's book section is much livelier. The walls are decorated with childlike decorative paintings, and the bookshelves are also constructed into various shapes - small houses, elephants, tall trees...

You hold Lucien’s hand as you walk past the children's book section. Feeling mischievous, you look at Lucien, whose height reaches your waist. "Little Lucien, do you want to pick a picture book?"

Lucien lowers his head and doesn’t speak, simply quickening his pace as he holds you. After walking to the western literature section, Lucien stops. “These are the books people my age read.”

The shop helper was just about to ask if he needed directions to the children's book section pauses. 

You laugh softly, taking a collection of poems from the shelf, and read it softly. 

“I love you, for putting your hand into my heaped-up heart, and passing over all the foolish, weak things that you can’t help dimly seeing there, and for drawing out, into the light...”

“All the beautiful belongings that no one else had looked quite far enough to find.”

Someone continues the second half of the sentence. The moment you lift your head, Lucien’s eyes turn icy. 

"It’s ‘Love’ from Roy Croft, right?” The uninvited man leans against the bookshelf in front of you and makes an inviting gesture. "Beautiful lady, may I invite you to have a cup of coffee with me?"”

Before you have time to speak, you hear a childish babble from Lucien. "Mom, dad would be anxious if we don’t get home soon.” 

Lucien smiles, his eyes crinkling as he tugs at the hem of your clothes. Nothing seems out of the ordinary - that is, if you ignore how he almost broke the hardcover copy of the “Theory of Psychoanalysis” in his hand.

Knowing that it’s no good to stay any longer, you take the few books Lucien picked, and prepare to leave. “Sorry, I should be going off with my... son.”

With a look of regret, the man shifts so you can access the aisle. “Next time, then.”

Carrying Lucien, you want to sprint away from this strange man. At the same time, you find the special smile on Lucien’s face very familiar. Every time he catches you doing something ‘bad’, he wears such an expression when he’s about to punish you.

After making your purchase at the checkout counter, you decide to use this rare opportunity to take Lucien to the trampoline. You’ve always wanted to experience it, but have always been too embarrassed to go. This way, you can play on the trampoline under the guise of bringing a child along with you.

Just as you’re able to compliment yourself for your wit, Lucien suddenly grips his chest and gasps, as though he can’t bear the pain.

"Lucien? What's wrong?" You grip his small body anxiously. 

Lucien raises his head with difficulty, his forehead covered with beads of sweat. “Let’s return quickly. I think I’m changing back.”

When you hear that, you dare not delay further. You step on the accelerator, and drive home before Lucien changes back.

As soon as he sits on the sofa, the little Lucien in front of you morphs back to his usual self, his eyes crinkling as he smiles. 

You thought this incident would pass, but you had forgotten that Lucien, a sly fox, doesn’t forget debts owed to him...

“My wife didn’t refuse that man in the bookstore today.”

"You didn’t even give me the chance to refuse,” you gripe, wrapping your legs around his waist.

...

Your whole body is sore, and you don't want to get up at all. Fortunately, it’s the weekend and you can spend the whole day in bed.

There is still lingering warmth in the vacant space beside you. In your line of sight, you see a thick book on the bedside table, and you can barely support yourself as you pick it up. 

Andersen's Fairy Tales.

"I got it from the children's section yesterday. Since I was a child for a while, I bought a book meant for a child." Lucien tousles your hair affectionately, and reaches out to place the storybook to the side. 

"After all, there’s a child at home who needs to listen to stories before bed."

[ KIRO ]

“Where’s Kiro? Where’s my fat... I mean, big Kiro?” You look around exaggeratedly, gesturing with your hands around the height of 176cm, as if you were really looking for him.

“...Miss Chips, stop pretending that you don’t see me.” Kiro looks at your antics in resignation. 

That’s right - the waist-high blond kid in front of you is your Mr Chips.

“I’m sorry, it's just really hard to believe that you’ve suddenly turned small.” Though you’re apologising, your hands cling to his cheeks. Sure enough, they feel like how you imagined. Soft and smooth, which make people reluctant to let go.

"Miss Chips, let go!" Kiro, who initially let you do whatever you want to him,, begins struggling when he realises you have no intention of sparing him.

You let go reluctantly, peeling your hands off his face. 

"Miss Chips, I asked for time off from Savin after telling him I wasn’t feeling well. Shall we go out to play?” 

As expected of Kiro. Even if his body size has turned abnormally small, he can still be optimistic about it, and still be in the mood to play.

“’Not feeling well’? It’s no good to lie to Savin, right?” You look at him, slightly troubled. 

“Savin doesn’t know that I have Evol. Ah, just tell me if you’re going or not.” Kiro opens his eyes wide, as though afraid he would receive words of rejection from you.

You prop your chin and think. "The amusement park then?"  

"Of course! We’ve planned to go for a long time!” Kiro jumps in place with excitement in his tiny body, looking adorable. "I haven't played the running escape game in the amusement park for a long while~”

You size him up, shaking your head regretfully. "Kiro, with your height... are you still able to run fast?" 

"...” Little Kiro feels slightly offended.

Although there may be many restrictions, you still drive to the amusement park with enthusiasm.

-

“All the best Kiro! Just a little bit more.” You watch him stand on his tiptoes laboriously, trying to reach the height permitting him to ride the rollercoaster.

"I made it!" Pleasantly surprised, he sees that his... hair reaches the red line. The staff ruthlessly presses his hair down. "Sorry kid, your height doesn’t pass, so you can't ride this.”

“..." Little Kiro wants to shut himself down. 

"It's okay Kiro, let's go play something else.” You pat him on the head comfortingly, ready to take him to other attractions. Kiro hangs his hand low, utterly aggrieved. "Miss Chips, I suddenly like amusement park rides won’t make me happy.”

You can’t bear to see your Little Sun being unhappy, so you lift him up off the ground. "If you aren’t happy, let's find a restaurant for dessert first, then play later?" 

When he hears that his favourite Miss Chips is bringing him to eat his favourite desserts, the Little Sun’s eyes light up. “Okay, okay~”

Smiling, it occurs to you that this personality and body are actually not that incompatible.

You order a teddy-bear shaped European bun and two dragon fruit juices stored in magic wands, taking a brief rest.

"This seems to be the first time I’m eating with Miss Chips in public.” Kiro dangles his feet off the bench triumphantly, taking out his mobile phone. "I want to take pictures of all our ‘firsts’”.

"Kiro, if Savin sees that, he’d chop your body into pieces.” You remind him softly. 

Sure enough, the fearless and brave Little Kiro stiffens, then quickly puts the phone back into the Donald Duck bag behind him, pretending he never made such a suggestion. "Forget it..." 

“Excuse me, do you have plans to let your brother become a child star?” Your conversation is interrupted by a man in sunglasses. He stands stands beside your table and looks at you expectantly. 

Before you can speak, Kiro answers. "I don’t want to. I hate all that stuff about having to maintain my figure.”

In response to his vehement refusal, the man in sunglasses continues. "No, no, being a child star is very relaxing, and you can even become very famous. Kid, do you want to give it a try?”

"No.” He says this clearly, giving you the impression that he’s been traumatised by Savin’s ‘torture’ over the years.

Not wanting to further entangle yourself with this man, you step in. “Sorry, we don’t have such a plan. We’re heading to another attraction, so please let us pass.” 

While you say this, you pick up the magic wand drinks on the table and lead Kiro out of the dessert shop.

“I didn’t think you’d still attract people’s attention even as a child.” You look at him with mirth.

Kiro scratches his head in irritation. "Absolute Charm is so annoying during these situations!"

You burst out laughing, helping him tidy his messy hair. Holding his hand, you complete all the other rides in the park. 

"Kiro, this is the last thing you can play.” You gulp, gazing at the dark, silent building in front of you. Unlike haunted houses in other places where there are monsters with scary teeth and claws decorating the walls outside this haunted house takes place in a small forest, keeping it out of the noise. The door opens quietly, as though making a silent invitation. 

Kiro squeezes your hand. "Let's go, Miss Chips. A superhero cannot back down!”

Upon entering the house, you discover that there is a line of people, and there are many, like you, have brought children with them to experience the attraction. The staff checks and accepts the express tickets in your hand, and allows around ten of you walk in together.  

The lifelike props and the crying of children fill your ears, and the shrill screams of women make the atmosphere even more terrifying. Trembling slightly, you grab Kiro’s hand, and he grips you. "Don't be afraid, I’ll protect you!”

Although he’s obviously afraid himself, he comforts and protects you from start to finish. 

He’s definitely your superhero.  

After finally getting out of the haunted house, all the children who went in with you, apart from Kiro, are bawling. Little Kiro, with his face pale, is still holding onto your hand.

"Congratulations to the bravest child. As a reward, here are coupons to the night floating parade!" The staff smiles and hands him two paper coupons. 

He receives them in a daze, and doesn’t respond until he walks out of the building and asks, “Miss Chips, does this count as cheating?”

You wink slyly. “If it’s such an adorable kid, cheating is forgivable~”

Kiro agrees with a nod. “Yes, cuteness is a ticket to doing whatever one wants~" He looks at the cartoon electronic watch on his wrist, and suddenly pulls you into a run. "Hurry up Miss Chips, we won't make it to the floating parade in time!”

[ SHAW ] 

You’ve always been calling Shaw “little brat”, but you didn’t expect your words to turn into reality. 

“I’m Shaw, the only graduate student from the Department of Archaeology at Loveland University. When I was playing games instead of sleeping last night, I didn't know that my hair had started falling out. At the time, I picked up the fallen hair but ignored the other harms of staying up late. After that, I was forced to go to bed. When I woke up, my body had shrunk! Although my body has become smaller, I’m as mischievous as always...”

You stand on the bed, raising your right hand exaggeratedly and forming the classic pose of the famous detective Conan.

"...” Shaw, who’s smaller than usual, stands at the side of the bed, looking as though he’s watching a fool.

"You should visit a brain doctor.” He picks up the pillow that fell to the floor accidentally because of your big movements. 

You laugh and get off the bed. "This is the first time I’m seeing a Little Shaw - when you look this small, you’re much cuter than usual.” You grab his cheeks with both hands and knead them to your heart’s delight.

"Don't do that!" He waves your hand away, stepping backwards and walking out the door. Seeming to remember something, he turns around. "I took leave today. You better be at home today too so you can take care of me. It’d save me from inconveniences.”

You purse your lips, mumbling softly, "What do you mean ‘took leave’? All you did was tell the teacher you wouldn’t be in class. You definitely didn't go through the formal leave procedures.” 

Although you’re complaining, you still call Anna to ask for a day off. 

By the time you’ve changed your clothes and freshened up, you find Shaw having breakfast in the living room and watching television. 

You walk over, picking up a dumpling and stuffing it into your mouth. "You’re unexpectedly thoughtful, knowing how to order takeaway for us.”

Shaw scoots over, making space for you. He lifts his head and says disdainfully, "If I didn't order takeaway, I’d become the first kid in Loveland City to starve to death because he didn't eat breakfast." He quickly grabs the last fried dough stick on the table. "Hey, don't touch my fried dough stick!" 

Knowing there’s no chance of grabbing it, you retract your hand and pick up a tea egg instead. “Stingy.”

"I'm a growing boy. Don’t you feel ashamed snatching precious nutrition from me?" He takes a bite of the fritter in his hand and looks at you in disdain.  

"You’re twenty, Uncle Shaw." You retort.

"I look six, okay!”

You click your tongue, pick up the remote control, and switch to a channel playing "Peppa Pig" before placing it back on the table.

"Children should look like children, and watch cartoons that are good for the brain." You turn his head so he faces the television screen.

On it, a pink piglet hops around in the mud pit, splashing muddy water on her brother George.

Shaw looks at you, his face dark. “Do you think I’m you? Isn't this something which suits your intellect?" 

You don the standard smile of a flight attendant, answering him in the sweetest voice you can muster. "Didn't you say you’re six years old? Little brat?"

Shaw looks at you sympathetically. "Unexpectedly, Auntie MC is old enough to have a bad memory, and forgot that my body possesses a twenty-year-old soul." 

Is it illegal to whack a child? If it weren’t against the law, I’d whack him to death!

Stuffed with food and drink, you’re half-lying on the sofa, leaving only a small space for Shaw. You poke his back. “Little Shaw, clean the table.”

He turns around blankly. "I’m a kid. You do the cleaning." 

Fine, even though he’s a child now, he knows how to switch between being an adult and a child when it suits his interests. You decide to teach him a lesson.

You smile and suggest, "I'll take you out to play later.”

Listening to his, Shaw lifts his eyes lazily. “Oh? Is your conscience pricking at you?”

“Children have to write reflections after going out to play. No less than 800 words.” You hold your palm out to him. "Also, you have to give me your money, and let the adult decide your share of the pocket money.

“I knew you weren’t so kind.” Shaw turns away from you. "I want fried chicken cola for lunch. Remember to order properly.”

You roll your eyes, whipping out your phone to order takeaway. You swear that you’re buying it for yourself, not following what he says just because he looks cute.

There’s plenty of fried chicken to go around in the afternoon, so there’s no repeat of the food-snatching that happened in the morning. 

After you’re full from cola and fried chicken, you clear the table and urge him to take a nap. "Children need their afternoon naps, or they won’t grow tall." 

Shaw refuses. "I'm 1.82 meters tall!”

You stare at Shaw, who isn’t even as tall as the television. Even if you don’t speak, what you want to express is self-evident.

He comprehends the meaning in your stare and scratches his head in irritation. You seize this opportunity, whisking him up into your arms and walking towards the bedroom. 

"I don't want to sleep!" He struggles violently, causing you to lose balance and fall forwards.

"Ah!”

“Damn!”

...

You find yourself straddling the enlarged version of Shaw, staring at him with wide eyes.

With a mischievous smile, he strokes your waist. “Since you can’t wait, I have no choice but to comply with your wishes.” 

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