#int. caroline

[gracland]

♡ — continued from here / @freedcm

to think back on their first encounter and all the little events that had to occur, woven by destiny, for them to wind up here now, with their hearts and bodies intertwined, takes her breath away. the surreality of it all makes her think that maybe there is such thing as fate. she's new to this, but caleb makes the unfamiliar feel less strange when he's there, guiding her and making her feel like there's nothing to be afraid of. their kisses are chaste, but full of exuberant passion at the same time. she can tell how much he's been waiting for this moment, despite his reservations and need for more time, by how invested he is in the kiss, the way he's touching her and beginning to turn her on. her fingers curl around his, helping direct his movements as he's making a path with the palms of his hands along her slender curves. hoping it would ease any timidness or worry that he's not graceful enough in his physicality. the seeming inexperience from his end is attractive in its own way, and caroline knows that this is where she'll shine. maybe she's not adept at being a romantic or expressing her feelings, but she had always been bold in the bedroom. unafraid to say exactly what she wanted and when she wanted it. or in this case, with caleb it would likely become a need. their kisses turn frantic as he continues to familiarize himself with her body and when he finally helps slide her dress down to reveal the delicate material of her bra, she can't help but get flustered by how he stops and stares at her. there's a glint of appreciation in his gaze and it's echoed by his compliment, her heart fluttering as she replied by leaning into kiss him once more, her hands guiding his to help remove more of her undergarments. "don't stop touching me. please... i need you."

[kit-mcgrady]

↦ closed starter  / caroline weaver @carolineweav ↦ location: downtown blackstone ridge

"Hey Oliver," Kit called out the second he recognized the boy walking with his mother not too far ahead of him. He'd been headed toward Country Market to grab some groceries—mostly frozen pizzas, bread and lunch meat, because nobody ever accused Kit McGrady of having a refined palate— but was instantly distracted by the familiar faces. He'd always loved kids who loved horses, and Oliver was one that had always stood out if only because he was a good kid. "Miss Caroline," he said with a tip of his hat as he approached. "How are you two fairing this fine evening?"

[zomslay]

"the qing dynasty has an exceptional academy to educate people on weaponry and the martial arts. all my sisters and i can attest to it. there's a reason they say that china is for the wise." and that japan is mostly said to be for the rich, lizzie wants to add, but she holds her tongue. unfortunately, wealth was the highest form of prestige in their society, so someone who graduated from the academy in japan was generally more respected and held in higher regard compared to someone who graduated from the academy in china. no matter how competent one might prove themselves to be in fending off the undead.

if a scowl had settled onto her face, he would have to excuse it despite being unladylike. lizzie misliked lots of things and being undermined by someone like caroline bingley, who could hardly wield a weapon of any sort, was at the top of her list. "did you know that the chinese are freer and safer than we are to roam their country because their forces have so efficiently prevented the undead from growing in number?"

@proditeur ! starter call.

[realignedstars]

♡ — continued from here / @infxnitestars

happiness is and always has been a fickle creature for caroline — its elusive presence coming and going as it pleased, though it's been ever-constant from the day she crossed paths with caleb, and she has a damn good feeling that the joy he's evoked in her life is here to stay. part of her surmised she wasn't the only one falling between the two of them, but hearing him say the words out loud in the deep timbre of his voice, one of caleb's most attractive qualities ( along with his every other feature ), brought caroline to her knees. this is the closest to being in love she's ever felt and it should be a foreign sensation, seeing as caroline's never loved another soul before, but in some ways, loving caleb feels like coming home. those deep blue eyes of hers glimmer with adoration as she lets go of the instinct to reply with words, instead circling her arms around his neck and pulling him close as she plants a firm yet gentle kiss to his lips. being physical is second nature to caroline, her romantic past rooted in sexual intimacy. the connection she shared with caleb is a major shift from what she's accustomed to in the best way, though it's broken her habit of having sex on the first date ( likely for the best ). patience must have its rewards, proven by how as soon as she's resolved to keep things chaste between them tonight, head resting comfortably on his shoulder, caleb surprises her, in the midst of those soft kisses he's brushing along her exposed neck, with his request for more. breath catching in her throat, caroline nods slowly, feeling herself shiver all over involuntarily. "yes." she whispers, sudden shyness overcoming her as she flushes beneath his gaze.

[myhiraeth]

@seesgood sent: (doze) : one muse falls asleep on the other’s shoulder / styxx again

She’s been lounging closer to him lately and if he were honest- he prefers it. He likes her nearby, not only because it would seem as though everyone in her would as soon stab her in the back and call it a favor as they would help her dig someone’s else’s stake out of her back, but because with Caroline around, things seem brighter. The sound of her voice echos in his ears even when she’s not around, making him smile to himself even when the rest of the town makes him want to pull his hair out by the roots. Mystic Falls could give New Orleans a run for it’s money as far as Annoying Cities To Be Stuck In, and it didn't even have his brother in it. 

But Caroline was worth the annoyance. Caroline with the hair like strands of sunlight, with eyes that cut through anyone’s bullshit but never quite reached shades of demeaning or cruel, with a voice that could silence the worst of his nightmares- she was worth mere annoyances and so much more. 

He’d been reading out loud and hadn’t realized she was slowly dozing off as he read his way through the works of Mary Oliver- a newer poet by his standards but a nature-lover that he rather enjoyed- until her head dipped to rest on his shoulder and he looked down to see her eyes peacefully closed, the ever-present furrow between her brows relaxed. 

He pauses; his shoulder can’t be comfortable but if he moves he risks waking her. She deserves the rest, but she deserves comfort as well, and after a minute of deliberation, he sets the book on his leg and slowly shifts his arm out from where it’s pinned between their bodies, reaching to hold her in place with his other hand until he can wrap his arm around her shoulders and let her sleeping form settle against his side. He picks the book back up, flipping through a couple pages. “ There’s a poem I want you to hear, Caroline. ” He whispers, not wanting to wake her. He wants to read it to her, he wants her to see how he sees her. But he’s not bold enough while she’s awake. 

“ Somewhere a black bear has just risen from sleep and is staring down the mountain. All night in the brisk and shallow restlessness of early springI think of her, her four black fists flicking the gravel, her tonguelike a red fire touching the grass, the cold water. There is only one question: how to love this world. I think of her rising like a black and leafy ledge to sharpen her claws against the silence of the trees. Whatever else my life is with its poems and its music and its glass cities, it is also this dazzling darkness coming down the mountain, breathing and tasting;  all day I think of her—  her white teeth,  her wordlessness,  her perfect love. ” 

[avalior]

lyric starter | accepting

A wry smile pulled hard on Edward's lips, self-deprecation ruling where potent confidence held sway; he snorted, a harsh rattle of a barked-out laugh. "Jesus, Anne, would you have me now?"

@paddyfuck | mata hari

[soulofapatrick]

The Art of Seduction - Kol Mikaelson x female reader 

Summary: 𝘒𝘰𝘭 𝘢𝘴𝘬𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘉𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘔𝘪𝘬𝘢𝘦𝘭𝘴𝘰𝘯’𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘵, 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘵 ��𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘣𝘭𝘦𝘮𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘔𝘪𝘬𝘢𝘦𝘭𝘴𝘰𝘯’𝘴 𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘔𝘺𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘤 𝘍𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘴

Words: 2k

Warnings: none really

Y/N’s POV

I feel like a fish out of water walking into the grand Mikaelson Mansion, the opulence of the place is overwhelming, a stark contrast to my usual surroundings. My fingers graze the silky fabric of my deep crimson gown, a dress I’d never have chosen for myself but had been insisted on by Caroline Forbes—my well-meaning but sometimes bossy best friend. The material clings to my body, making me acutely aware of the unfamiliar sensation of wearing such an elegant form-fitting garment. 

A delicate mask rests upon my face, concealing my identity and adding a layer of mystique. I run my fingers over the ornate design, feeling the cool touch of the silver and the softness of the lace that borders it. It’s a mask that was meant to make me blend in with the other masquerade attendees, but instead, it adds to my unease. 

My hair, intricately woven into an undo, feels heavy and foreign on my head. It’s a stark departure from my usual casual, tousled locks. I resist the urge to pull the pins out but I know Caroline would yell at me if she saw as it would be an act that would defy the careful preparation that has gone int my transformation tonight. 

As I look around the Mikaelson Mansion, I can’t help but feel like an outsider. The grandeur of the place is staggering, with its high ceilings adorned with chandeliers, ornate tapestries, and gilded accents. It’s a world of elegance and extravagance, a stark reminder of my humble roots in Mystic Falls. The guests, their faces concealed behind their own masks, move gracefully through the spacious hall, their laughter and conversation creating an enchanting hum in the air. 

As I take a deep breath to gather my courage, I step further into the crowds of people mingling at the ball. The sound of hushed conversations, laughter, and the gentle rustle of expensive fabrics fills the air. My heart beats faster as I weave my way through the masked guests, feeling like a small fish in a vast and unfamiliar sea. 

Suddenly, a hand, warm and firm, gently grasp my wrist. Startled, I turn to see a tall, enigmatic figure standing before me. It’s Kol Mikaelson, his deep blue eyes studying me with a hint of curiosity, as if he’s trying to unravel the mystery of my identity concealed behind the mask. His voice, laced with a seductive charm, breaks the silence between us, “Well, well, who do we have here?” He says, a knowing smile playing at the corners of his lips, “You look positively capturing, darling, but I can’t seem to place your face. What’s your name?”

My heart flutters in my chest as I maintain my composure, trying to conceal the nervousness that threatens to surface, “The allure of anonymity is a gift of masquerade, don’t you think?” 

Kol's close proximity makes my heart race as I continue to meet his penetrating gaze. His eyes, a shade of blue that feels like a deep ocean, shimmer with an intensity that threatens to unravel my secrets. The corners of his lips curl into a sly smile, and his breath against my ear sends a delightful shiver down my spine, “Ah, a woman of mystery, I like that.” He murmurs, his voice laced with a seductive allure that makes my pulse quicken. His lips, tantalisingly close to my ear, evoke a thrilling sense of danger and desire. It's impossible to deny the magnetic pull he exerts. 

Kol takes a step back, but his hand remains on my wrist as he extends his other hand towards me. "Would you do me the honour of a dance, my mysterious enchantress?" he asks, a playful glint in his eyes

A flush of nervousness courses through me as I hesitate. I’m not a skilled dancer, and I fear making a fool of myself in front of the Mikaelson crowd. But the way Kol looks at me, the way he makes me feel, is impossible to resist. With a soft smile, I nod and allow him to draw me to the dance floor. 

As we start to move together, I can feel his strong, sure hand at my waist, guiding me with confidence. His proximity is intoxicating, and I can’t help but steal glances at his striking appearance. Kol is a vision of impeccable charm. His dark hair is artfully disheveled, his suit fits him like a second skin, accentuating his lean and elegant frame. The scent of his cologne, a rich and masculine fragrance, surrounds me, adding to the allure of the moment. The way he moves, the way his eyes never leave mine, is a dance in itself. With each graceful step, the world around us blurs, and it’s just Kol and me, lost in the hypnotic rhythm of the music and the unspoken connections that grows between us. 

The song begins to come to an end and instead of letting me go, a gas is drawn from em when Kol’s grip on my waist tightens a little, pulling me closer to him. My heart races as I can feel the solid strength of his chest against mine, and his touch becomes even more intimate. 

He moves my hand, which was in his before, to his shoulder, allowing his fingers to gently caress my cheek. His gaze, intense and unwavering, searches my eyes for a deeper connection. The world around us disappears entirely, and its as if we exist in a realm of our own creation, where the seductive allure of the Mikaelson Ball and the enigmatic man holding me becomes the only reality. His thumb brushes the edge of my mask, silently asking for permission to lift it and reveal my identity. But my heart clenches with fear. I can't help but turn my head away, my hesitation clear in the way I avoid his gaze. I'm afraid that if he discovers who I really am, he might pull away, and this intoxicating dance of desire and intrigue might come to an abrupt end. 

Kol's eyes, still filled with curiosity, search my face for answers. He doesn't press the matter further, and I sense a growing mystery in his own demeanour. We continue to dance, but the unspoken question lingers in the air, a silent plea for trust and vulnerability and suddenly, almost too quiet for me to hear, “Shall we step outside?” 

His question takes me by surprise, but the allure of the enigmatic Kol proves irresistible. Without a word, I nod, and Kol takes my hand, leading me through the maze of masked guests. His hand fits perfectly in mine, and his touch sends a thrilling pulse of anticipation through my body. 

We navigate the grand mansion, leaving behind the music and revelry of the masquerade, stepping out into the gardens. The cool night air envelopes us, a welcome respite from the charged atmosphere within. The distant sound of laughter and music carries on the breeze, but out here, the world is a serene oasis cloaked in moonlight. 

I turn my gaze to the gardens that sprawl before us, their beauty magnified in the soft evening light. The meticulously manicured hedges, the delicate play of shadows on the path, and the scent of blooming flowers blend together to create a landscape that’s nothing short of breathtaking. The enchanting aura of the Mikaelson Mansion extends seamlessly to the outdoors, where secrets and desires seem to take root in the very earth. 

Suddenly, Kol’s fingertips brush over my shoulders, his touch as gentle as a whisper. A thrill of sensation courses through me as he traces a featherlight path down my arms, leaving a tingling warmth in his wake. The moonlight bathes us in a silvery glow casting an almost otherworldly sheen on the scene. He appears lost in thought as his fingers continue to trace down my shoulders and down my arms. His brows furrow slightly, as if he’s trying to piece together the puzzle of my identity. I watch his eyes, searching for any hint of recognition in the depths of their blue depths. 

But then, something shifts. Kol stops trying to decipher who I might be and, instead, he gazes intently at my face. It feels like a moment of revelation, as if something has finally clicked in his mind. Without a word, he reaches over and begins to pull the pins that hold my hair in place. A sigh of relief escapes me as each pin releases its grip. They had been starting to dig into my scalp and were becoming increasingly uncomfortable. Kol’s touch, as he frees my hair, is gentle and considerate, a stark contrast to the wild dance of desire and intrigue that had been weaving its way through the night. 

With the final pin removed, my hair tumbles down freely, cascading around my shoulders like a waterfall of silk. Kol’s gaze lingers on my unveiled appearance, his eyes capturing the transformation before him. His gaze lingers on my unveiled appearance, capturing the transformation that has taken place. The moonlight continues to cast its enchanting glow upon us, highlighting the moment of vulnerability and intimacy. 

Kol, his eyes filled with a mix of curiosity and desire, takes hold of my chin between his thumb and forefinger. He turns my face and body to squarely face him, ensuring there are no secrets or barriers between us. His eyes search my face, exploring every contour and shadow, as if he's trying to etch this moment into his memory.

A soft hum escapes his lips, a sound that reverberates with a blend of approval and something deeper. In the next heartbeat, he leans in, closing the space between us. His lips meet mine in a gentle, almost reverent kiss. The sensation is electric, a blend of tenderness and desire that courses through my body. Kol's lips are soft and warm against mine, and they move with a slow, deliberate rhythm. His kiss is an invitation, an unspoken promise of connection and intimacy. I can feel his breath mingling with mine, our heartbeats in synchrony, as we share this moment of profound connection.

As Kol eventually pulls away, the moment lingers, and the air is charged with anticipation. This time, when he reaches for the mask, I let him. My cheeks heating up and I can’t meet his gaze, bracing myself for the initial revelation as I’m not as pretty as Caroline or sweet as Elena. But, instead of disappointment or detachment, Kol’s fingers brush my cheek and he sweeps me up in another breathtaking kiss. The passion and desire in this kiss intensify, as if he’s determined to show me he likes me. 

The kiss is an intoxicating blend of passion and desire that leaves me breathless. Kol's strong arms wrap around me, pulling me closer, and I can feel the heat of his body against mine. His lips are demanding, and they taste of a tantalising blend of desire and urgency. His hands roam my body, exploring and igniting a fiery desire within me. My hands find their way to his shoulders, gripping the fabric of his suit as I hold onto him, lost in the sensation of the moment.

In the midst of this intoxicating moment , Kol eventually pulls away, his gaze intense and filled with a mixture of longing and satisfaction, “I was hoping it was you, Y/N.” He murmurs, his voice soft and filled with warmth. 

A rush of relief washes over me as I meet his gaze, searching for any sign of doubt or regret, “You were?” I reply, my voice quivering with anticipation and a hint of vulnerability. 

“I wouldn’t have asked you to dance if I didn’t think it was you.” He confirms. 

Kol's eyes sparkle with a newfound understanding, and instead of answering, he leans in for another lingering kiss, a promise of secrets and seduction that bind us together in a night filled with intrigue and desire. The enigmatic allure of the Mikaelson Ball has led us to the precipice of a passionate and dangerous affair, and the unspoken promises of the night continue to unfold in a dance that defies explanation. 

Vampire Diaries Universe Masterlist TAG LIST - updated 21st Dec 2023

[fansplaining]

Calling all fandom journalists—both current and aspiring! As promised, we've put together a doc for pitching Fansplaining (which will temporarily become a written-only publication after Flourish's last episode next month). If you've got an idea that fits in with our general tone and approach, please send int our way!

We highlight these pieces in the doc, but in case folks are unaware that we're *currently* a written publication as well as a podcast, here's a sample of some of the stuff we've published over the years!

Kayti Burt on the specific challenges of being a “fan-journalist”

@earlgreytea68 on how U.S. copyright law doesn’t understand—or account for—fan creativity

Maria Temming on whump, featuring extensive interviews with whumpers

@areyougonnabe on the ever-mutating life of Tumblr and its communities

Keidra Chaney on stan culture’s intersections with corporate interests

@elizabethminkel on the uneasy relationship between fans and Hollywood at SDCC

Caroline Crampton on WIPs, from modern fics-in-progress to Victorian serializations

@elizabethminkel on the past, present, and future of the “Mary Sue”

@flourish on the deeply annoying reason mainstream publications spell it “fan fiction”

Also please note: we're v transparent about money here. We *deeply* appreciate our Patreon support, but we can't afford to pay a ton or publish super frequently with the current amount we take in. So if any generous folks are interested in sponsoring smart, substantive writing on fandom in the future, please get in touch. fansplaining at gmail dot com. :-))

[clubrevenant]

“Fair,” she said with a nod, sliding the shot back toward herself like it was a challenge she’d been waiting for. “I’ll drink for both of us. Your designated mess.” Then, without fanfare, she knocked it back — grimaced, winced, grinned. There was something about Caroline that made her want to give a real answer. Maybe it was the way she talked about music, or the fact that she could admit to craving feeling without sounding weak. Either way, it disarmed Bex more than she'd admit aloud. She leaned forward again, elbows resting on the worn bar, voice low enough to keep it between them. “Alright,” she said, brushing a thumb over a ring on her finger like she was winding herself up to it. “Something real, huh?” Beat. “I used to be married,” she said, tone even, like it wasn’t a live wire in her chest. “Thought we had the kind of love that could survive anything. Turns out, anything doesn’t include silence. She started pulling away, little by little. And me? I don’t do quiet well. I needed noise. Needed to feel something. So I let someone else touch me like it meant nothing.” A humorless smile tugged at her mouth, crooked and tired. “And it did mean nothing — to me. But not to her. And by the time I realized what I’d done, the damage was already bleeding through everything.” She leaned back, exhaling hard. “So yeah. I know a thing or two about wanting to feel good just to remember you can.” Then she looked back at Caroline, something steadier in her expression now. “You don’t have to give everything up. Just be careful what pieces of yourself you hand out to feel whole again.”

Caroline let out a small laugh at the woman's response. She was quite happy with her life overall - she loved her son, she loved her job, she loved living in a small town where she could walk her dog somewhere scenic. But when she looked back at things like that, she did notice a small tinge of tragedy. So small she could laugh at it sometimes. "I own a music store that provides lessons, but yes. That's pretty much what happened. I'm a huge Oasis fan, but there's nothing particularly sexy about their songs." Though to Caroline, that was what was so amazing about music. There were contexts, situations, different ways to appreciate them. It could express so many different things. "The feeling anything but exhaustion thing is definitely a factor." Rage wasn't something that Caroline felt that often, not anymore. The topic of her ex abandoning her and Jonathan was a sore topic that could make her angry if she thought about it for too long, but she had plenty of other things to focus on. But god she was exhausted. Even with all the stimulants in her system. "I also just don't want to give up everything, you know?" It did make her feel better to know she could still be touched. She could still feel good. Even if she couldn't have that sweet romance anymore. She didn't have to give up all of which she yearned for. When the woman poured her a shot, she shook her head apologetically. "I can't drink, medical reasons. And I'm driving this lot home." She said, nodding to her incredibly drunk friends. Though she raised the shot in a toast anyway, before pushing it towards the other woman to down as well. "You need to tell me something, now."

[lavenderhateswritting]

Aaron Hotchner x Male Reader

Hotchner with an unsub reader Part 2

Walking into the crime scene after the bodies had been cleared was a deceptive process because the crime that had been commited in the house was violent. Blood had splattered the walls in such a thick cover that most it would have been easy to think that was just the color of the paint. The smell had seeped into the house and even after the crime scene cleaners had been through there was still a deep smell of rot and iron rich blood seeping through.

“There was a party in the house the night before.” Rossi was walking the length of the dining room where much of the carnage had been centered.

Prentis had been walking behind him, her eyes scanning the scene for any extra messages that might have been left behind.

“They were all drunk. So they hadn’t heard him come in. No sign of forced entry though that could be because they had forgotten to lock the door." Rossi began to walk deeper int the house toward the kitchen.

"Not to surprising. Its a quiet neighborhood with low levels of violence they were celebrating and didn't realize they hadn't locked the door after the last guest. Is this where the first people were killed?” Prentis was stading in the kitchen next to the kitchen sink.

"Chissy Wilson and Theodore Milkavich were likely the first to drop. They were in the kitchen together likely the first to cut off from the main group."

"He comes in through the front door, but he doesn't go through the main room, he can't fifteen people are here, but they all know eachother they'd notice he wasn't supposed to be here." They are both flowing around through going through the process of the kill. Rossi continues forward.

"So he starts in the kitchen, he waits in the pantry until two people break off from the group. And then he kills them quick quietly too because the others don't immediately find the bodies. Then what?" Prentis begins to speak then.

"Then he moves out of the kitchen toward the dinning room and he takes the gun and starts to pick them off one at a time. He doesn't have a lot of time and he knows it. The people in the living room are going to hear and come in."

"Once he's killed all of those the people in the dinning room run in and then he starts killing them too. No one outside of the house hears a thing." Rossi has his hands on his hips when he says this.

"Likely had a silencer on." Prentis begins to walk toward the window in the living room.

"When he's done he gets to work, he has all of the time in the world and a goal to make as horiffic of a crime scene as possible, but to what end?" Rossi says.

"Garcia just texted me we've gotta head back to the sherif's office they found a letter in one of the victims torso's"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

My Dearest Hotchner, I know that I have to apologize to you my love. The last few years have been difficult for me, hard in ways I could never describe to you, though I’m sure you would understand. I’ve learned that you’ve gotten a promotion in the years of my absence. I’m glad that those in charge have begun to see how amazing you truly are. I’m sure you’ve missed me as much as I’ve missed you and so, in honor of our beautiful reunion I have left you a little treat. I’m sure you’ve noticed the mess I’ve made already. You know you think that the husbands will be the biggest issue in cleanouts like these, but it’s never the case. The wives are usually the biggest fighters especially if she’s a mother. I admire that about women the deperaton with which women fight for their survival. One of the women. I believe her name was Caroline got me pretty good while i was finishing up my masterpiece I assumed she was dead, but sadly she wasn't. I’m  sure you’ll find the blood somewhere around this mess of a scene though you’ll also find that I’m not on any system you could use to find me, sorry love what’s the point in making it that easy. I am a bit rusty I will admit .Neither of us are as young as we used to be though, it could also be because I went pretty big for my return. You know me love, I love the dramatics. Now come find me. Sincerely, Your Love 

The tension in Hotch's jaw as the letter was being read out was unmistakeable. His entire body had begun to tighten up of the course of the reading of the letter nad he looked like he was close drawing blood from how hard he was clenching his fists.

"So he's back then and has some grand ideas about catching up on lost time." Morgan is standing off to the side of the meeting room arms folded.

"He says the last few years have been difficult. Maybe he's alluding to a loss of employment or a medical crisis. He does reference his age and a victim being able to fight back enough that they were able to hurt him." Reed speaks into the tense room.

"Hotch are you sure you want to get involved with this one. This guys got you in his sights only." Morgan turns his head to look at their leader and his nearly statue like stillness.

"He's going to cut his way through the entirety of this town and move to another one. He wants attention and in order to get it he will go to extreme lengths." Hotch took a deep breath. "We need all hands on deck and to end this before he hurts anyone else."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hotch had decided to later in his hotel that day. The speech he had given his team had reignited the certainty that they could not let this unsub go underground again. He could not let it show, but it had shaken him to have this killer come back into his life again.

He pinched the bridge of his nose and leaned back into his chair. He had already unbottoned the top two buttons of his shirt. The tension in his neck and shoulders was all consuming he couldn't think about that now though. He didn't have time to be tired not while you were out there plotting hurting more people.

As he began to gatehr his things to go to bed when the ringing of the phone cuts through the silence of the empty room. He picks it up and places it against his ear.

"Agent Hotchner." The response he got in turn was an almost pregnant silence.

"Hello. Who is this?" He heared the breathing of the person on the other end.

"You gave a rousing speech back there." He stopped himself from inhailing to quickly you had been watching him. Of course you had.

"How did you get this number?" You started to giggle from the other side of the phone.

"Do you miss it? The chase, the excitment, having someone know you."

"You don't know me. You're a sick man who kills people becase their is something wrong with you."

"Aaron" Your voice drops from it's sardonic lightness to a more serious darker turn. "Don't be cruel. I've missed you your voice, your face, your passion. Have you missed me."

"Why would I have missed you. I don't know you." His voice begins to rise then.

"There's no way you still beleve that. You think I don't want you to catch me? Don't be ridiculous. I mean why wouldn't I want you to slam my body into the ground those strong arms gripping down on me pulling me around, manhandling me like I'm filth. You think I don't want that. It's what I touch myself to every single night Aaron." Your voice took on a whisper like tone the further into the monologue you got.

"You want me to cach you fine then come to the station turn yourself in." He took a deliberate effort to not think about what you had just told him about your sexual fantasies. Though he could feel the way your voice had brought a tightness in his slacks.

"There would be no fun in that Aaron. Me and you we're animals, we need the fight, we need the hunt. No turning myself in won't do you need to work for it. Aaron come catch me." You hung up the phone.

[clarisse0o]

Camp Wiegman-Part 34

Lucy Bronze x Ona Batlle

Alternative Universe : Military School

Words: 5k

Masterlist

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Saturday, January 9th, 8:35 PM - Bar

- Move it! We’re late! We said 8:30, for crying out loud!

- Oh, come on, it’s only 8:35.

- Five minutes too late, she grumbles. I’m not someone who’s late.

I smile at her reaction. Today has been very enlightening. I’m slowly starting to get to know the real  Lucy, and I realize she’s not so different from the commander at the camp. So, I’m not surprised that she hates being late, both at school and elsewhere. I have to admit, though, I provoked her a bit. I took longer in the bathroom than necessary. It’s nerve-wracking, knowing I’m about to meet my supervisor’s friends. She tried to reassure me, but it was a lost cause. We just arrived in front of a bar with the sign *TheUnited* glowing in the dark. I hide my trembling hands in my jacket pockets. I distract myself by thinking about the end of our day. I loved spending time with her at the park, where she introduced me to the best smoothie of my life. Let’s not even talk about the exhibit. I still can’t believe she found that for me. I loved being able to chat with some of the artists, who were just a bit older than me. It was enriching to listen to their experiences, and it makes me more and more eager to pursue this path. Meeting people like that makes you realize that nothing is impossible. Given my situation, I should know that by now.

- Come on, Ona, are you going in or what? We’re already late, she says, annoyed.

- Sorry, I say, blushing.

- You know, they’re not going to eat you, she finally smiles. And it’s not like I’m going to leave you alone with them.

- Don’t say that. When Mapi tells me that, I always end up alone by the end of the evening.

- I’m not Mapi, as far as I know. I’ll stay with you, I promise. Now, are you going in, or do I have to hold your hand again? she teases.

I give her a stern look before walking into the unfamiliar establishment. The atmosphere of the bar relaxes my muscles. I wasn’t expecting something like this. The decor reminds me of Lucy’s living room, with a stone wall behind the bar. Plus, the ambient lighting adds a certain charm to the place.

- Come on, they’re over there.

I nod, still looking around. Lucy has to guide me forward with her hand on my back. Thinking about it, this is exactly the kind of bar I would like. Lucy and her friends have good taste. The anxiety I had begins to creep back as we approach a crowded table where I only recognize Jenni and Ingrid. At least Lucy wasn’t lying when she said I’d know some people.

- Here come the two latecomers, Jenni comments.

- Hey guys. Sorry, Miss here had a shower issue.

I blush as all eyes turn to me. It’s even more embarrassing since Lƒucy put me front and center by standing behind me. If she hadn’t done that, I would’ve definitely hidden behind her. We go around the table to greet everyone, and she takes the opportunity to introduce me to those I don’t know. I smile shyly as I reach one of her friends, who I recognize as the owner of the paintball place where Lucy took me. Beth, if I remember correctly. She seems to remember me, as do the rest of her friends, who don’t seem to consider me a stranger.

- I didn’t think you were so shy, Ingrid teases when I reach her. Come on, sit next to me.

She pats the empty seat next to her on the bench. I slide in, followed by Lucy. It’s strange to start a night sitting between my two instructors from school. I look at the new faces, trying to remember their names. Jenni, who’s sitting across from me, smiles. I smile back timidly. She’s sitting between Beth and someone I think is named Caroline. The ones at the end of the table are Aitana, who’s next to Lucy, and Mary, who’s across from her. They’re all pretty intimidating. If you ask me, these are the kind of people you avoid picking a fight with.

- So, you’re the famous protégé of Lucy? Aitana asks me.

- Don’t start, Lucy interjects.

- Bringing out the claws? Mary laughs.

- Want to see them? she challenges with her usual coldness, which no longer surprises me.

Her friend surrenders, raising her hands in a gesture of peace. I’m amazed at how much respect she commands here, just as she does with the students. It’s a good example that it’s not just about physical presence to be intimidating. I sink into the leather bench, trying to make myself as small as possible. Fortunately, Jenni changes the subject to ease the tension.

- How’s Alexia? she asks, making me smile softly.

- I don’t have a phone anymore, so I can’t text her, but she was doing great when I left her on Friday afternoon.

- You know her girlfriend? Aitana questions me.

- Uh, yeah... She’s my roommate at the camp.

- Small world, she chuckles. Who would’ve thought.

Her comment seems aimed at my supervisor, as if trying to rile her up. It seems to be working, judging by the way she looks at her. The waitress interrupts us, clearing her throat to get our attention. She was about to speak, but her gaze stops on Lucy, looking surprised to see her.

- Hey, Lucy! Didn’t think I’d see you here tonight. It’s been a while, huh?

- Hi Callie. Yeah, it’s true, it’s been a while since I could go out.

- Glad to see you back. What can I get for you and your girlfriend?

I quickly realize I’m the supposed “girlfriend” when I notice that we’re the only ones without drinks. All her friends have beers.

- She’s not my girlfriend, Lucy corrects. A beer for me. And you, Ona? she asks, turning to me.

- Same for me, I try.

- She’s only twenty. Get her a Coke, please.

- You’re no fun, I grumble.

- I’m responsible for you, she responds with a wink.

- Tsss... I’d prefer an iced tea instead of Coke, though.

- Got it, the waitress laughs. One beer and one iced tea, coming right up.

I pretend to pout, crossing my arms and puffing out my cheeks.

- Not cool, Lucy, one of her friends says in my defense. You’re not her supervisor outside of school.

- I have no mercy for her.

Of course, Lucy doesn’t buy my act and pinches my cheek to make me crack. I giggle and swat at her fingers to get her to stop.

- Did you just hit me? she asks, feigning outrage.

- You were hurting me! I retort.

I jump with a little yelp when she pokes my side. She raises an eyebrow, realizing what just happened before a certain gleam crosses her eyes.

- Hmm... So, you’re ticklish?

- Oh no, no... I see where this is going... I say, scooting closer to Ingrid. Don’t you dare!

I don’t have time to escape or block her hands before she attacks me with tickles. I squeal, writhing in all directions to escape her fingers, but it’s no use.

- St-stop! Please, please! I’m sorry! I’m sorry!

She laughs and finally stops under my pleas. I struggle to catch my breath. The waitress returns at that moment with our drinks. Before I can react,  Lucy pays for them without asking my opinion. I bite my lip to avoid saying something in front of her friends, but I plan to make up for it with the next round.

- Do you know how to play pool, Ona? Mary asks me.

- No, I’ve never played, I admit.

- What a shame! Caroline responds. We’ll fix that. I’ll go get the gear. Everyone up for it?

This activity seems to be a regular thing for them, as the group responds positively. I would have preferred it if they weren’t. I slightly lied when I said I’ve never played. I’ve had the misfortune of trying before, and it was a complete disaster. The balls flew everywhere but the table. All her friends head to the pool table closest to ours while Lucy’s friend goes to get the equipment. But I haven’t found the courage to stand up.

- You coming? Lucy asks, having stood up herself.

- I-I think I’ll just stay here. But go ahead. Someone has to watch our stuff.

- What’s wrong? she smiles softly.

I shrug. I don’t dare admit that I’m terrible at pool for fear of embarrassing myself. I sigh when she sits back down next to me. My intention isn’t to ruin her evening.

- I don’t want to make a fool of myself. I’m a walking disaster when it comes to pool.

- Oh... That’s all? she chuckles.

- It’s not funny...

- I was going to teach you, you know. I’m not leaving your side, remember?

I nod, but I’m still not ready to change my mind. Lucy seems to notice, given the small smile she gives me.

- Is there anything else I should know?

- Your friends are impressive.

- I won’t disagree with you, she laughs. Don’t worry, it’s just an appearance. They’re very nice.

- I didn’t say otherwise! They’re nice... But they’re still very impressive.

- Do you want to go home? I’m not trying to make you uncomfortable.

- No! I’m happy to be here.

She looks at me skeptically, but I reassure her with a smile. We watch her friends, who have started a game. I urge her to join them, but she refuses to leave me alone. So, we sit and sip our drinks side by side.

- Want a drink? she offers me her beer.

- No, thank you. I’m not really into beer, I admit. I just wanted to tease you and see your reaction when I said I wanted one, I add, yawning widely.

- Very charming, she smiles foolishly. Are you feeling tired?

- No, not really. By the way, um... can I wake you up tonight if I can’t sleep?

- Of course. That’s exactly what I want you to do. Why didn’t you want to talk to me about it anyway? There are some things about you that I’ll never understand.

- I... I don’t know, I shrug. I don’t like to spread my problems around. I tend to want to solve them on my own... But having you there when I woke up yesterday reassured me, I finally admit.

- I’m glad you’re admitting it, she replies with a little smirk. We’ll have to find a solution at school.

- Alexia will be there.

- Are you going to sleep with her? she laughs. I should warn Jenni.

- No! I giggle. I didn’t mean that, but I know she’ll be there if something goes wrong... Until now, I made sure she didn’t hear me when I was awake... But, well, you know me... I have two left feet.

- Two left feet? she laughs. What did you do this time?

- Let’s just say a bedpost hurts a lot when you bump into it, I say, making her laugh even more. It’s not funny, stop it, I giggle, hitting her arm.

- You’re really not skilled.

- I can’t help it if I can’t turn on the light because of the instructor in the hallway! I’d like to see you do better! By the way, do you know who’s on duty on my floor?

- Should I get you a flashlight? she jokes. And no, I don’t know since we’re never in contact with them, but I’ll find out, it seems.

- You’re going to talk to them, aren’t you?

- You know I have to. If they catch you wandering at night, you’ll get in trouble for nothing.

- Fine... I suppose you’re right... Well, should we join your friends now? I feel ready.

- Coward, she smiles. You always run away when things get complicated, she says, making me blush. But if you insist, I’ll teach you how to play pool.

Oh, the sly one. I had forgotten how good she is at making me regret running away. With no way to back out, I stand up to accompany her to the pool table. Jenni and Aitan a were about to start a new game when they saw us coming. Her other friends are chatting and laughing with a beer in hand.

- You playing with us? Jenni offers.

- Of course, Lucy agrees. How about a two-on-two?

- Yep.

- Are you sure about this? I whisper to her. I wasn’t kidding when I said I’m really bad, you know!

- Relax, she laughs. I’ll teach you.

I shrink as Lucy explains my problem to her friends. They tease me a bit but quickly reassure me by saying there’s a first time for everything. The atmosphere is quite pleasant, after all. The background music is just loud enough to be heard but not too loud to disrupt our conversations. Now that I pay attention, there are a lot of young people around. Yet, I remain one of the youngest.

- Here, she says, handing me the pool cue. Show me what you can do.

I grimace as I take it. I move towards the game, which has already started. I lean against the table and strike the cue ball with the pool cue. There are giggles behind me when I miss. They don’t last long, and I understand why when I see Lucy’s stern eyes on our opponents.

- Get back in position, I’ll help you.

- I told you I’m a real disaster.

- It’s okay, she smiles. Come on, lean in, I’ll explain.

I get back in position without much confidence and listen as she shows me how to better place my hands on the cue. She leans in to help position my fingers at the end of the cue, so they serve as an aiming guide. Once I’m in place according to her, she shows the mobility of this new position by moving the cue back and forth.

- Good, now you just have to gauge your shot, she says, looking at me.

- Should we do it together? I propose hesitantly.

- If you want.

She focuses on the game again. I try to do the same, but it’s very difficult given our position. Her body is completely pressed against mine, and her hands cover mine.

- At least you have the best teacher, she whispers, making me laugh nervously.

Unexpectedly, she strikes the cue ball. We stand up to watch it hit a colored ball, slowly driving it into the pocket at the other end of the table. I can’t contain my joy and jump into Lucy’s arms. She has no choice but to catch me. I quickly come to my senses and pull away, but she doesn’t seem to mind, given the smile she gives me. She hands me the pool cue.

- Try it on your own now. Ours are the solid colors, so avoid sinking the stripes. Look, try this one.

She pulls on my sweater sleeve to make me follow her. Technically, it’s hers since I put on her sweater after my shower. I lean in, waiting for her to adjust my position before striking the ball. I hold back a cheer when it sinks into a pocket again. I leave my place to Lucy, not wanting to play the whole game myself. She plays without hesitation. I’m amazed when she manages to hit a ball I would never have been able to touch. I chuckle at the disappointed looks on her friends’ faces.

- Damn, you haven’t lost your touch, Jenni says.

- It’s something you don’t lose, Jenni, she teases. Ona, come here.

I join her without thinking. I’m actually enjoying playing for once. When I reach her side, I listen attentively to her instructions for our next shot. She takes the opportunity to teach me some new tricks. I’m starting to enjoy pool. It’s so simple with her. We continue until I make a mistake, giving the turn to the girls. We’ve nearly pocketed all our balls in one go, so it’s not a big deal. The girls take over. They tell me that Lucy is an expert at this game. I didn’t need their comment to notice. We easily win the game. To think it started with them teasing me. I mentally note to always team up with Lucy. Even with a beginner like me, she managed to lead us to a decisive victory. My eyes land on a small blue chalk piece at the edge of the pool table.

- What’s that? I ask Lucy.

- Oh, that. You put it on the cue tip. It allows you to add spin and be more precise.

I smile mischievously as I pick it up and draw a line on her cheek to get back at her for tickling me earlier. I take advantage of her surprise to draw a second line.

- Hey! Stop that! she protests.

- Or what? I taunt her.

- Or you’ll regret it, she challenges me.

No one can resist such a challenge. At least, not me. I try to draw a third line, but this time she’s ready and grabs my wrists. She turns me so that my back is pressed against her chest, reducing my movements by holding my arms. This position leaves me defenseless. She takes the opportunity to grab the blue chalk and attack me in turn. I laugh, squirming as best as I can.

- Okay, okay! I surrender!

- That’s too easy, she laughs. This will teach you not to mess with someone stronger than you.

She continues until our heads collide violently due to my squirming. A loud thud is followed by groans. Her grip on my wrists disappears, allowing me to rub the sore spot. We burst out laughing when I face Lucy, who is in the same posture as me.

- All this because of your antics! You’ll see if I have a bump! I joke.

- Poor thing, I giggle.

- You should worry if you both have one on Monday, Ingrid intervenes.

I calm down, not having thought of that. I remove my hands from my head at Ingrid’s request to check for damage. Lucy also comes closer. I grimace when she presses on it. Ingrid slaps her hand away before I can.

- Stop that! Show me your forehead too.

- I’m fine, don’t worry, she chuckles. But she needs ice, she points to me.

- You too, given how red you are, Ingrid retorts. You’re both lost causes! she mocks. I’ll get some ice. Go sit down.

I chuckle as I see her forehead indeed turning red. A few minutes later, we’re sitting side by side, each holding an ice pack on our bumps. The situation is rather funny.

- "This is your fault!" she retorts.

- "You didn’t have to hold me."

- "You’re the one who started with the chalk! I had to defend myself."

- "Maybe, but you kept it going!"

- "Hey, enough, you two," Ingrid grumbles as she arrives and sets down new drinks in front of us. "You two are like kids together, honestly!"

- "Grumpy."

I snicker at Lucy’s comment. Ingrid rolls her eyes in exasperation as my supervisor laughs along. It’s the first time Ingrid’s the one complaining while Lucy’s laughing. She calls us hopeless cases before turning on her heel to join the others.

- "I take back what I said... You’re not as uptight as I thought."

- "Well, I should hope not!"

- "I thought you were too old to let loose..."

- "I’m not old!" she exclaims, offended.

- "I’d love to say otherwise, but I still don’t know your age."

- "You’re not going to find out," she laughs.

- "Oh, come on! I know everything else now! Your first name, last name, where you live, your friends..." I listed.

- "Not everything, since you’re missing my age."

I sigh, leaning back against the bench. She smiles before taking a sip of her beer. I guess I can keep dreaming about finding out her age. At least, that’s what I thought.

- "Twenty-five."

- "Twenty-five?" I repeated. "That’s it?"

- "That’s it?" she chuckles. "That’s more than enough!"

- "No, but... Seriously? You told me you started working at Camp Wiegman four our years ago! You couldn’t have started at my age... right? And what about your studies?"

- "I was doing an apprenticeship part-time the first year. I was in my last year of school and would come after classes. Ingrid was the one who trained me."

- "Wow... You were young. What about the others then?"

- "Who?"

- "Ingrid and Jenni."

- "Well, Jenni did the same thing and was trained by White. But Ingrid is a year older than us, so she had just started her first year full-time."

- "Oh, I see."

- "Anyway, let me see your head, please."

I take off my ice pack and take the opportunity to apologize. It’s my fault we’re in this situation, though we did have a good laugh. The bump gave me a headache. I hope it’ll be gone by Monday. We continue chatting. She changes the subject by asking me what kind of parties I attend in Barcelona. Since I can’t lie, especially to her, I share some high school party memories since she already knows everything about my recent outings. They’re nothing like this one, and that’s a shame. Seeing that I was uncomfortable talking about it, Lucy decides it’s time to return to her friends.

- "Here," she says, handing me a twenty-dollar bill. "Can you order another round from Callie and return the ice packs, please?"

- "Yep, I’m on it."

- "Don’t hesitate to get something for yourself, too."

I head to the bar to order this round. It’ll be the third since we arrived. Jenni paid for the first one and Caroline the second. It’s a weird process. Where I’m from, everyone pays for their own drinks. I lean against the bar between two high stools, waiting for the waitress. I turn my head towards the group when I recognize my supervisor’s laughter. A smile spreads across my lips. I have no regrets about being here tonight.

- "Another round?"

- "Yes, please," I replied to Callie, handing her Lucy’s bill.

- "And what can I get for you? Lucy said it’s okay if you want a beer."

- "No, thanks. I’ll stick with iced tea."

She nods with a smile before heading off to prepare our drinks. I notice she’s already picked up the ice packs I had placed on the counter. I turn again to look at Lucy. She’s full of surprises, it seems. I wasn’t expecting her to let me have alcohol. She seems so at home here. I bite my lip as I turn back towards the bar. I need to stop staring at her more than I should. I’ve been feeling unsettled around her for the past few days.

- "I didn’t know you were so calm."

I furrow my brow at the familiar voice. I look to my right and am surprised to find Alex, the guy I met during my afternoon at the ice rink with Joan.

- "Alex? What are you doing here?"

- "Hi to you too," he smiles. "Glad you remember me."

- "And here’s the change," Callie interrupts us. "Should I take the drinks over?"

- "Yes, please."

She sets my iced tea on the counter with a wink before taking the tray filled with beers. I thank her before she heads off with the tray.

- "So? What are you doing here?" I pressed Alex.

- "I told you last time we hung out that I also have classes in Manchester. Don’t you remember?"

- "No..." I replied, feeling embarrassed. "Sorry, I don’t remember much from the night we spent together."

- "I’m not surprised," he chuckles. "Did you come with friends tonight?"

- "You could say that, yes."

I follow Alex’s gaze over my shoulder to the people I came with. I’m surprised to meet Lucy’s green eyes. Ingrid is talking to her, but that doesn’t stop her from keeping her eyes fixed on me. She only breaks our eye contact when her friend taps her arm to get her attention. I turn back as well.

- "I sent you some messages not long ago. Didn’t you get them?"

- "Oh, um... Actually, I don’t have a phone anymore. I broke it a week ago."

- "That explains why I didn’t get a response to my offer."

- "What offer?" I asked with a small, friendly smile.

- "I wanted to see you again. I guess now you have no choice but to accept if you want me to forgive you."

- "Who said I want to be forgiven?"

- "You’re hurting me," he says, clasping his hands over his heart, making me laugh.

- "Poor thing," I mocked.

- "Honestly, I’d really appreciate seeing you again, if you’re up for it."

- "I’d like to say yes, but it’s going to be tough. I’m at a strict school that only lets me out on weekends if I’m granted permission."

- "Oh yeah, your famous military school that you wouldn’t stop talking about all night."

- "Really? I couldn’t have mentioned it that much. You must be exaggerating."

- "No, I swear," he laughs.

- "Is there anything else I should know about that night?"

- "Oh, I don’t know. Maybe that you kissed me?"

- "How about the truth instead?" I replied, making him laugh.

- "Am I that repulsive?"

- "I didn’t say that."

- "Still, what you just said is kind of hurtful."

I bite my lip, hoping he’s not offended. He must have been happy I was talking to him, given the circumstances. I say nothing and prefer to come up with another excuse, something a bit funnier than the real reason.

- "Let’s just say your flirting style is outdated."

- "At least it’s straightforward..."

I give him a playful tap on the shoulder at his dejected look. I hope I didn’t give him false hopes during that night. I really do like him, but he’s on the wrong track if he thinks he has a chance with me. I tense up when I feel an arm wrap around my waist and a head rest on my shoulder. I relax when I recognize the dark hair cascading over my shoulder. This sudden closeness surprises me, but I say nothing.

- "Is everything okay?"

- "Yes, yes. Sorry for taking so long. This is Alex, someone I met in Barcelona. I must have mentioned him to you."

- "Hmm, probably. Hi."

She lifts her head to look at him. Alex returns the greeting, his expression somewhat puzzled. A palpable tension has formed out of nowhere. Everything had been going smoothly until now. A certain glint flashes in Alex's eyes, as if he's trying to prove something.

"It's funny though," he jokes, "you say my flirting is outdated, but you still talk about me."

"That doesn't mean anything," I reply with a smile. "Sorry, but I’m going to have to decline your offer. Like I said, I don’t have control over my outings with school, and I don't have a phone anymore."

"At least let me give you my number again, so you can text me when you get a new one, Miss Unreachable?"

"I guess I can do that, if you enjoy torturing yourself."

He laughs and grabs a napkin from the bar, scribbling his number on it before handing it to me.

"I was warned you were a lesbian, but... Well, you know where to find me if you ever want to hang out."

"Who told you that?" I ask, raising an eyebrow.

"Your best friend. Mapi, I think?"

"Oh, I see," I roll my eyes. 

"She told me I was wasting my time with you. Apparently, you’re already into someone."

He glances over at Lucy as he says this, making me grit my teeth and silently curse Mapi for this awkward moment. I don’t need her to scare off my would-be suitors. She really goes overboard when she wants to.

"Can we get back to my friends?" Lucy interjects.

"Yeah... we'll leave you to it."

"Just tell me if she was right," Alex persists.

"Alex, drop it," I reply, exasperated. "If Mapi was right about one thing, it’s that I’m not interested. Have a good night."

He wishes me the same. Lucy guides me with a hand on the small of my back. I don’t really understand why, since it’s not hard to spot her friends.

"Where’d you meet that guy?" she asks.

"I don't think it's worth mentioning."

"Hmm, that's what I figured. He seems pretty pushy."

"Totally," I chuckle.

"You two seemed to get along well, though."

"He's just a nice acquaintance. We’ve only hung out twice at parties, that’s all."

"Alright..."

I can tell she wants to know more, but neither of us says anything further.

"Let’s not stay too late, though, okay?" she says, surprising me.

"Can’t we stay a bit longer? I’m just starting to feel comfortable," I admit.

"No. It's getting late, and besides, I'm the one driving anyway."

"I should be the one driving after the drinks you’ve had."

"I only had three. I’m perfectly capable of driving, but thanks for the concern," she giggles.

"Well, I tried..."

"True," she smiles. "But the answer is still no. You’re not driving my car tonight."

I’m sipping my drink when we rejoin her friends. The night continues as usual. Another round of pool starts as we arrive. Lucy agrees that we can wrap up the night with this game. We split into two teams of four since there are eight of us. Naturally, I stay by the expert’s side to increase our chances of winning. It's also a chance to improve my skills. The game is accompanied by conversation, where they share memories of times they’ve spent together. I call Lucy a bad girl after learning all I did about her tonight. She’s got more spunk than I expected. She scolds me for drinking at parties, but it seems like she’s no better, even if she defends herself by saying it only happened once. And likely the last time, from what I understand. It’s a shame because I’d love to see her tipsy just once, just so I could give her a lecture in return. Eventually, we stay much longer than just one game. Each time she wanted to leave, her friends kept us around. She caved every time, agreeing to stay a bit longer. We ended up staying until the bar closed around one o'clock, when the waitress finally asked us to leave. Aitana suggested continuing the night at her place, but Lucy firmly refused on behalf of the both of us. So it’s late into the night when we finally get back to Lucy's place to crash.

Sunday, January 10th, 4:35 AM - Lucy's Place

It’s another night where I wake up in a cold sweat. I’ve been tossing and turning in bed for a good fifteen minutes. Lucy hasn’t barged into my room, which means I didn’t scream this time. That’s a good sign. Maybe my episodes are becoming occasional. Still, I can’t fall back asleep. I hesitate to go to her room. She encouraged me to wake her if needed, but I don’t want to disturb her again. I’m forced to do it anyway when I run out of options. I sigh, pushing the covers aside. I head to the living room first to grab a glass of water. The one she gave me yesterday helped calm me down. I lean against the counter, trying to clear the images from my head. It’s difficult, and they keep me fully awake. I finish my glass slowly before putting it in the dishwasher to erase any trace of my presence. As I walk back down the hallway, I’m faced with two options. The door on the right, or the door on the left. I curse myself as I push open the door on the left. The room is dark, with only the sound of soft, steady breathing. I close my eyes before moving forward in the darkness. I stop when I hear her shifting in bed. I let out a sigh of relief when I realize she just turned over.

“Lucy...?” I call out softly.

No answer. I gather all my courage to move closer to the bed. I call her name again. This time, she responds with a groan.

“I can’t sleep,” I murmur, hoping she hears me.

"Ona?" I hear her groggy voice.

I feel guilty for waking her. I bite my lip as she turns on her bedside lamp, blinding us both. She rubs her eyes, then checks her clock before looking at me again. It’s nearly five in the morning with all my nonsense.

"Again?"

"I-I'm sorry. It was a mistake. I shouldn’t have woken you," I stammer.

I try to leave, but she stops me before I can get too far. I freeze, too embarrassed to move. She sighs and sits up. Even in the middle of the night, she’s stunning, and that thought is starting to worry me.

"Don’t be silly. Close the door and get in bed," she grumbles. "And don't even think about arguing with me. I can get very grumpy when I'm woken up."

I smile shyly at her anticipation. She lets go of my wrist when I timidly nod. I close the door as she asked, then return to her bed, slipping in on the far side. She pulls the covers over me and turns off the light. Before I can do anything, she pulls me into the same position as last night. My back fits against her body as she rests her head near my neck. I pull the blanket up tighter, holding her closer. She must have noticed because she snuggles up to me a bit more. She wishes me goodnight, and with the same gentle strokes as last night, I finally drift off to sleep.

[gunnerfc]

🎄WOSO FICMAS: Dec. 12 - Fridolina Rolfö 🎄

Fridolina Rolfö x Reader (Arsenal & Sweden) | WC: 745

Dec. 12 prompt: cuddle during the team's christmas movie night

-> any translations come from google!

-> woso ficmas masterlist can be found here!

With the holidays approaching and clubs giving players time off, you and your Swedish national teammates could spend time together away from the pitch. With the club seasons picking up and certain players rehabbing injuries, it made it hard for almost everyone to see each other. The captains of the team decided that there needed to be a team movie night before everyone went back to their respective clubs after the break.

This is how you found yourself in Caroline’s home surrounded by most of your teammates, still waiting on the arrival of some of them. You were in the middle of an intense conversation about the past London Derby with Zećira and Johanna, neither wanting to accept that Arsenal did in fact win that match. Too preoccupied with the conversation with the two Chelsea players, you didn’t notice when Fridolina and Stina joined the three of you on the couch. 

“man kan inte alltid vinna, vet du? (you can’t always win, you know?)” your Arsenal teammate teased interrupting whatever excuse the goalkeeper was trying to say. Stina was especially happy with the Gunners’ win after scoring the late game-winner. 

The Chelsea players switched their attention to Stina, once again voicing their displeasure with losing. Frido could only laugh at the four of you, finding the argument amusing. 

“Frido, hjälp oss här! (Frido, help us here!)” the youngest of the two West London players whined, hoping the blonde would come to their defense.

“Nej, jag gillar när Chelsea inte vinner. (No, I like it when Chelsea doesn't win.)” the forward joked, earning a loud laugh from you and Stina while the Chelsea players rolled their eyes. 

The conversation shifted to how Frido’s recovery was going back in Spain and then to how everyone planned on spending the summer now that Sweden was out of the Olympics. You moved your hand to hold your girlfriend’s as she spoke about her recovery, knowing how much she missed being able to play for both Sweden and Barça.

Once everyone had arrived at your captain’s house, the team was instructed to write down the title of a movie to be drawn out of a bowl to make it easier to decide which movie to watch. You were quick to scribble down the title of your favorite Christmas movie, tossing it in the bowl before finding a seat before you were forced to sit on the floor. A slight shiver ran down your spine, the Swedish cold affecting you more than you thought it would. You knew you should have listened to Frido when she told you to wear a long-sleeved shirt or at least take a hoodie, but you refused, saying something along the lines of being used to the cold.

The blonde was quick to join you on the couch, a knowing smile on her face as she watched you slightly shake from the cold. You were waiting for her to say “jag sa det till dig” (I told you so), but it never came. Instead, she picked up the blanket that was thrown over the back of the couch, moving it across the two of you. Your teammates soon followed after putting their suggestion into the bowl, some racing each other to a spot on the couch to avoid the floor. 

You were too focused on the warmth your girlfriend was providing to pay attention to what movie Magda picked from the bowl but you could hear a few groans from your teammates, letting you know they were not thrilled with the selection. With everyone now settled in front of the TV, Caroline had the opening credits to the movie rolling. You were hardly paying attention to the movie, more content with being wrapped up with your girlfriend, the cold no longer affecting you. With a quick kiss on the blonde’s cheek, you settled into the couch, eyes now focused on the bright screen in front of you.

As the movies continued, Frido moved closer, wanting to be as close to you as possible. With a new movie now starting and your girlfriend fully tucked into your side, you let out a small content sigh, having missed spending time with all your national teammates. You caught some of your teammates’ eyes, teasing smiles on their faces at the sight of you and Frido cuddling, but they knew to keep their comments to themselves for now. However, you knew their silence wouldn’t last long and the first chance they got to tease you, they would take it.

[benitoxherrera]

Benny could appreciate a person wanting to have a little fun, to blow off a little steam. It was, frankly, his specialty. He'd gotten very good at letting people use him for that sort of thing, and that only grew to be more and more enticing as he got older. He didn't want to mess with feelings and drama. Sex was easy when it was without strings. He wasted no time unlocking the door and holding it open for Caroline, glancing once more out toward the bar to make sure everything was still good. "I'm glad you understand the importance of—" he trailed off as soon as the door was shut, flicking the lock into place before he reached out and tugged Caroline into a kiss. It didn't matter what kind of front he was putting on out there, in here she knew what was unfolding.

Caroline slipped off the bar stool when he suggested she follow him into his office. "That is an excellent idea." She said, as she began to walk behind him. "It's best to be sure." The flirty smile was still on her lips. That feeling that she didn't have to give up everything, that she didn't have to be exhausted and overworked all the time, was slowly forming. "He is, I'm in absolutely no rush." She confirmed, though she did decide to set an alarm in case she for whatever reason lost track of time.

[oneeyed-jacks]

Question for the employees! Who's everyone's favorite coworker?

this is gonna take a while t’ round enyone up

Mike - gotta be my fellow barkeep b

Hazel - “I don’t spend much time ‘round these people when off shift maybe Becca, she’s quite”

B - she ain’t in but I’ll get her latter

Handin’ this over t’ Jessie so he can get the bouncers

Ayy ain’t ‘ad this f’r a bit

Jessie (me) - definitely smiley

Smiley - Jessie

Ray - coughin’ up blood again so I’ll ask them latter

Caroline - she ain’t in

Everett - he also ain’t in

Seein’ as siggy’s been quoted on ‘ere I’ll let him continue

I thought bein’ roped int’ this once was enough

Sig - Ray’s good t’ smoke with.

Rusty - “I like Mike, bar Mike he has all the good stories that I miss when talkin’ t’ the costumers ‘nd fills me in.”

Oz - “I like when flossie does my hair. So her.”

Alan - if anyone says he’s they’re favourite they’re wrong cause he’s s’posed t’ be ‘ere ‘nd ain’t so we’re ‘avein’ t’ pick up the work.

Sam - “Jill shame she’s t’ old f’r me.”

Becca - off shift.

Reed - off shift.

Just go this shoved int’ my hands

Back readin’ guess ‘m finishin’ this off.

Mikey - me ‘nd nel been gettin’ closer recently

Jill - she scares me a little so ‘m glad she ain’t in

Asher - “cross’s cool”

Nel - she out

Flossie - out

Ace - ‘nd out

Ant - “b bugs gotta sick t’gether”

Riley - “‘m say Asher they let me not pay a bet”

CC - “hard t’ pick-” they flipped a coin? “Riley.”

Lee - “reeds chill covered f’r why I was late more times then I can count”

[sleepysera]

"Whether they create a neutron star or a black hole, supernovas are of great significance because they are responsible for ejecting huge amounts of material containing the heavier elements across huge distances with colossal force, distributing them throughout the universe. This includes things such as oxygen, nitrogen, calcium, silicon, magnesium, iron and even gold and uranium. It is from these elements that new stars and galaxies, their planets and life as we know it on Earth ware formed--it is true to say that all the matter we can observe int he universe is effectively made out of stardust."

-Dr. Caroline Harper, Unseen Universe (2024)

[spoopydooblr]

My King Will Be Kind Chapter 13 / Kendall Roy x OC

an: yeahhhhhhhh this is it. THIS IS IT .... i cant believe ive been writing this for over ten months and its been a joy! thank you for being along this ride with me. every time i thought about giving up i would get some sweet ass message from one of yall and i would decide to write again.

stay tuned for more ... hehe

tw: smut, piv, mentions of unalive, mentions of death, mentions of drug use

The second time Kendall appeared at Stella's doorstep was a few days later.  He had been in Barbados with the Sibs and Caroline, trying to lock in the CEO position.  

Somehow, she again ended up on the counter, his hands roaming around her body.  Her pants were pulled down to her knees, the flesh of her thighs hitting the countertop.  

He stuck his head under her shirt, kissing and tickling her chest with his tongue.  Stella swore he came over int he early morning hours so he could catch her in sweats and no bra.  Her body was easy access to him, then.

"Ah!"  She laughed.  "Ken, stop!"

He nipped at her stomach, lowering his mouth to the waistband of her underwear.  

"Seriously.  Kendall."

He looked up at her, brown eyes begging for permission.  "What, pretty girl?"  His lips curved into a smile.

"You can't just keep barging into my place in the middle of the night."

"Uh, yeah I can."

Stella shooed him away from her pussy and sat up.  "We're fighting, remember?"

"I don't think we are."  He smirked at her.

She scoffed, turning to get off the counter, but his hands were still clamped down on her thighs.  "Okay, well, you can't keep doing this.  You didn't even tell me how Barbados went."  She trailed off, seeing the light shine in his eyes at the mention of Barbados.

"Well I was going to tell you after I fucked you into oblivion, but I guess you ruined the surprise."

"What?"  

"You know when I told you Dad named me CEO?"  

She nodded.

"Well Roman and I convinced Shiv to veto the deal.  We're fucking Lukas and GoJo."  He took her hands into his.  She was still just wearing her underwear and big t-shirt.  "It's me."

"For real this time?"

He nodded.  "Yeah.  For fucking real."

Her voice dropped, whispering, "You promise?"

"Yeah."

"So what happens next?"

"Well..."  He move closer to her, lips ghosting over her neck.  "I'm gonna be fucking CEO.  And I can do whatever I want..."  He bit down on the spot between her collarbone and her neck.  She could feel him, half-hard, pressed against her thigh.

"Mmm."  Stella hummed as he reached under her shirt yet again.  

"And then I get to spoil you, for real."  Kendall pulled her shirt over her head, nuzzling his face against her neck.  "You'll never have to pay for anything.  You can do whatever, be whatever."

She moaned.  The thought of being undeniably rich turned her on.  Their relationship was real, of course, but so was his money.  The concept of never having to pay for anything ever again would be attractive to anyone. His lips attached to her nipple, pulling slightly with his teeth.

"Wait, Ken,"  She could feel him getting harder and knew he was aching to fuck her.  

"Hm?"  He looked up from his spot, making hickeys all over her chest.  

"Can we, uh, do it in the bed?"

He grinned.  "You wanna make love, Stella girl?"

She shrugged, the blush creeping up her face.  "I just feel like we're always on the move."

They both knew that if Kendall became CEO, he would be on the move a lot more, unfortunately.  

"I know, baby."  He helped her down from her spot on the counter and led her to the bedroom.  Stella was basically naked as her back hit the sheets.  Kendall looked down at her, working on his shirt. 

She could barely wait, writhing around on the sheets, begging for him to touch her.  

"So impatient..."  He hummed, shrugging off his button down.  Her hands grasped at his belt, undoing it and pulling it through the loops.  She pulled down his pants--shaking fingers caressed the tip of his dick through his briefs.  

"Ahh, Stell..."  Kendall gasped at the sudden contact.  He had been holding it in, but playing with her tits had made him incredibly hard.  She reached in, palming him as he got on top of her.  

"I love you."  Stella moaned as he bit down on her shoulder.

"Ah, uh, I love you too."  He stuttered as she took him in her hand, pumping his length.  She flipped them over, kissing down his neck.  Her body flushed against his, she positioned herself at him and sunk down on his dick, agonizingly slow.  

Kendall tried to say something but choked on his words as her plush core took him in.  It took all of his strength not to thrust up and stuff himself in.

Stella moaned at the fullness she felt already.  They hadn't had sex in a bit and she was always so tight.  Half-way in, she sunk down lower, thrusting herself onto him.  She let out a small whimper, nails scratching his chest.  

"You good, ah,"  Kendall's vision was clouded as she sank down all the way.  "You good baby?"

She nodded, tears of pleasure falling down her face.  It already felt so good, she could barely move.  "Fuck."

Kendall wrapped his arms around her, pulling her down into him.  He thrusted up into her, slowly.  

"Feel good?"  He whispered in her ear.

She nodded, "Ah," He hit a spot deep inside of her.  "Yes!"

His pace quickened and he flipped her over, taking in the sight of her.  Stella was fucked out, lips swollen and core throbbing.  He almost came at the sight of her under him.  Kendall reached between them, his thumb finding her clit.

Stella cried out, one hand on his shoulder and the other gripping the sheets.  "It's too much..."

His lips attached to her neck, pelvis thrusting into hers as hard as he could.

"You can do it for me, baby."  He breathed.  "C'mon."

Her arms wrapped around his neck, grabbing at nothing.  He hit deeper in her core, her stomach clenching with each thrust.  

Stella's legs started to shake as Kendall grunted, thrusts getting sloppier.  "I'm gonna come in you, okay?"

She nodded.  "Okay."

His thumb lazily traced circles around her clit, hips stuttering against hers.  After too much time away, he wasn't lasting long.  

"Gonna...ah..."  Kendall gasped against her flesh, warmth filling her stomach.  He mumbled something that sounded like 'oh fuck' as he released, relief coming out of him in waves.  She still loved him, even with his flaws.  

 Watching him come undone pushed Stella to her own high, her walls flush against him, pulsing.  Her mouth dropped open, a silent scream taking over her as Kendall took them over the edge.  

"Never leave me, okay?"  He looked down at her, chests heaving.

"I'm not going to leave you, Ken."  She touched his chin.  "No matter what happens."

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

The next time she saw him was on tv, two mornings later.  It was 10 AM and she hadn't heard from him yet, which was not a good sign.  

Stella checked her phone as she turned her tv to ATN News.

"Oh shit..."  She muttered under her breath.  

"TOM WAMBSGANS NAMED US CEO OF WAYSTAR ROYCO" A headline read.

#KendallRoy was trending on Twitter.  

if i were @RealKendallRoy i would kill myself

Tom Wambsgans for ceo? Random but ok...#gojo

#KendallRoy is probably fuming 

She called him, obviously, but it went straight to voicemail.  Stella got up from her couch and paced her apartment, unsure of what to do.  Kendall was nothing without the company.  What was he going to do now?  Sure, he had the money and resources to do anything, but his family's company was everything to him.  

Stella ran through the hall, phone in one hand, the other grabbing a jacket and pants.  

"Roman!"  Stella was shocked he actually picked up.

"How did you get this number?"  He sounded drunk.

"Where is he?"

"I don't know.  Probably floating dead in the Hudson somewhere by now."

"Roman."

"Battery Park, probably.  That's where Dad used to go."

"Okay, okay."  She stopped, trying to sound as normal as she could.  Tears were threatneing to fall, though.  "Is he...uh...--"

"Is he good?  Uh, no, well, yeah, he is not good.  He'll probably be dead or knee deep in coke by the end of the night.  Probably both."

"Great.  Thanks."

"My advice, Stella?"

She was quiet for a second.  

"Get the fuck out while you can."  He said.  "Seriously.  Like, you're young, you're an actress or whatever, so you'll be okay.  Let Ken destroy himself."

"What?"  Roman wasn't wrong.  She was young.  She had her whole life ahead of her, and couldn't be the sad wife of a coke-head.  Was saving him worth it?

"He'll promise you sobriety, but he always lies.  Rava figured it out too late, I guess.  You can get out now.  Out before you're like, legally tied to him or something."

"And you're just going to let him die?"

"Ah, I'll be here when he inevitably gets out of rehab."

"But I should leave?"

"I'm his brother, I have to stay."

But could she?

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

Kendall sat on a bench in Battery Park, Colin standing behind him on not-so-secret suicide watch.  

The early winter air blew in his face as he contemplated his next move.  

Kendall stared out into the horizon.  Everyone had betrayed him. 

He swore he heard footsteps behind him, but the harshness of reality hit.  No one was coming.  

The footsteps, however, got closer. 

Stella walked past Colin and put her hand on Kendall's shoulder.  He flinched, but couldn't look at her.  He recognized her by the YSL Libre she wore.  

"I told you I wasn't going to leave."