#jaebeom s2l | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

hobeemin · 4 years ago

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Eros et Psyche - Part 1: Agape

💘 Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Adventure, Drama, s2l, Greek God myth AU

💘 Pairing: Im Jaebeom x (f) OC

💘 Rating: 18+

💘 Warning(s): swearing, intense pining, alcohol, smoking, jealousy, misogyny, Greek gods being Greek gods, mistaken identities

💘 Word Count: 5.1k

💘 Credits: Beta read by the marvelous @yoongsgguktae 💜 ily sis thank you

💘 Summary: A modern take on the Greek myth of Eros and Psyche.

💘 A/N: Part of The Intimacy Anthology Project hosted by @peonybane found here

This is my retelling of this particular myth, changes have been made to make it more modern (as you will see with the rest of the fic) Enjoy :)

< 💘 >

The vase smashed against the wall, shards flying in countless directions. A door creaked opened hesitantly as a head poked through with caution.

“Mother?”

She already had her back to him, fumbling with a pack of Virginia Slims. Ignoring him for a moment, she lit the skinny cigarette and inhaled a long drag, blowing out a swirl of wispy smoke. Her eyes cut to him as if allowing him to enter.

The young man entered, pushing his dark locks back off his face. His eyes cut to the remains of the vase on the floor.

“That was your favorite vase.”

She grunted in response, wrapping her robe tighter around her body. He glanced at the woman who’d brought him into this world. Petite at five foot five inches, but that didn’t stop her from being a force to reckon with.

Krystal established herself as a model long ago, being practically worshipped by the public. Having to hide her true nature, she settled for features opposite her own: long, dark tresses reaching her lower back, sun-kissed skin free of blemishes.

Sporting a baby pink silk robe, she carried herself over to the chaise lounge and draped herself over it.

“Jaebeom, be a dear and bring your mother a martini, dirty...extra olives.”

He sighed, walking over to the vast corner bar at the edge of the penthouse. Windows from floor to ceiling, it overlooked the beautiful view of the city. Always the best, his mother said.

Krystal watched her son in anticipation. One would think they were siblings with how young she looked, but it was better this way; fewer questions from the press. He took nicely after her and not his father, opting for black hair almost shoulder-length, almond-shaped eyes that always seemed to hold a secret, standing at five foot ten inches, the muscles were attributed to Ares—not that she’d admit it.

Today he wore an Allsaints leather jacket, gray hoodie, and ripped black jeans. Aviators propped on top of his head finished the casual look. He always seemed so put together.

But in reality, he was a bundle of nerves. Being the child of the Goddess of Love and God of War was exhausting. Two volatile beings always on edge. And being the God of Desire just added to that stress. He would have preferred working with his dad, and yet here he was, spreading his...influence over others while they found happiness and love. But where was he? Forever to be alone, serving martinis to his mother and doing her bidding, usually getting his hands dirty.

Jaebeom mixed the alcohol and dry vermouth in the shaker diligently before pouring the mix into a martini glass. Adding a few olives for good measure, he delivered it to his mother with care.

She sat up against the pillows and took a generous sip. Sighing, her eyes closed. Jaebeom sat back on the opposite end watching her.

Regaining some calmness, she opened her eyes with a smile. “My little boy makes the best drinks.”

Jaebeom held back an eye roll. Of course, he did, she trained him on how to make drinks since he was a child. “What’s with the dramatic flair? Why are you so stressed out?”

She pouted, setting her glass down. “What? I can’t spend time with my Jiffy Poo?”

Jaebeom cringed at the nickname looking away. He messed with the tassels on the pillows. He could tell she was evading the response. He reached over and held her hand, giving it a squeeze. “Mom?”

Her mood changed and she snatched her hand away with a growl. Cigarette between her lips and the martini glass in one hand, she paced across the plush white carpet.

“Can you believe it?! I’m old news?! Me?! ‘The beauty of the century’, ‘timeless face’, ‘a rarity’. They said...I’m old news!”

Jaebeom’s mouth opened like a fish, no words forming. She hissed pointing to a stack of magazines on the glass coffee table. “Go have a look!”

He went over to the pile, sitting down on the couch, and picked up the copy of Italian Vogue. The cover, usually displayed with his mother, was replaced with another woman. She gave off a youthful and fresh vibe. The secret smirk across her face added to the glint in her eyes. Her skin a beautiful shade of golden honey, and hazel eyes sparkling under the sun. A determination he was sure his mother had lost over the years.

Not that he would admit that out loud.

He picked up the Vogue, the same woman. Then Elle...Harper’s Bazaar, Marie Claire, Vanity Fair, Allure, Neon—the very same woman graced all the covers.

“The-”

“The new Aphrodite! That’s what they’re calling that...that hussy!!” She screamed, tugging at her hair.

Jaebeom’s lips pressed together. “Who is she?”

She scoffed with a hiss. “Does it matter? I’m going to destroy her after all.” She gave her son a dubious look and rolled her eyes. “Fine. If you must know, her name is Psyche. Most likely a stage name. Either way, she’s going to wish she wasn’t born.”

Jaebeom set the magazines back down, clasping his hands behind his back. “What do you plan to do?”

She chuckled just as a few barks cut the air. Jaebeom groaned as two white Pomeranians bounced into the room yapping at the heels of his mother. She cooed, dropping to her knees holding out her glass for Jaebeom to take.

“My whittle babies. Were you missing mummy while you went nappy nap?” She purred scratching behind their ears. Tails wagging, they jumped onto her lap trying to lick her face.

She squished their faces, looking at Jaebeom. “Phobos and Deimos, say hello to your big brother. He’s gonna get rid of the mean old witchy for mummy.”

He placed the glass on the bar counter with a sigh. “You still haven’t said how you planned to do this.”

She reluctantly pulled away from her pets, walking over to fill their food bowls—the pebbles clinking against the golden dishes gently.

“Easy. I’m going to require your...expertise for this.” She leaned against the counter tapping the long stiletto shaped nails gently on the marble. “It’s quite simple. You’ll use your ‘persuasion’ to make her fall for the most vile creature.”

His brows raised disappearing under his fringe. “And how do you suppose I do that? Get her alone that is.”

“Hell if I know. You’re smart Jiffy Poo. You’ve never disappointed me yet,” she smiled reaching out to pinch his cheek, “and I don’t expect you to ever. Mummy knows best. Correct?” She removed her hand from his cheek walking back over her seat.

He rubbed the spot as his brows knit. What did he have to lose? His mother was the Goddess of Love after all. “Yeah, you know it all.”

But her jealousy made her into one of the worst people he’d ever come across. It was a wonder Zeus kept his distance.

“Of course I do darling,” she replied airily. Flipping her hair back she glanced in the mirror for a moment. “Now run along, you’ve got work to do. I’m going on a beauty renewal retreat with Athena...I mean Amber in Milan and I need to detox for the next few days,” she explained wincing at her reflection—though there was not a blemish or mark in sight. “I’ll be gone for two weeks and I expect the news about her to be scandalous.” She turned to her son with a frown. “Are we clear?”

“Yes, mother,” he said, slipping his glasses on and bidding her farewell.

^^^^

Psyche laid out on the pool chair, body angled perfectly for the camera. As the photographer clicked away, she’d move her head or hands switching positions. The teal and white bikini shaped her form well making her proportions longer.

“Beautiful! Beautiful! Tilt a little more...great! Stay like that babe. You’re killing me! Yes! Fucking hell you’re on fire!”

The assistant adjusted the reflector as the flashes went off. The creative director looked up from her screen with a grin. “We got the shots!”

A round of applause went off as everyone finished. Another assistant ran up to Psyche and handed her a bottle of water and a towel to wipe the sheen from her face.

“Thank you,” she said with a smile, her eyes twinkling brightly.

The young man blubbered as the bottle almost slipped from his fingers. He shoved it in her hands and ran off. Psyche gave a small pout before taking a sip.

The photographer ran up to her giving her air kisses on each cheek. “My muse!! Lovely job. We must work together soon.”

She blushed with a giggle. “I can’t thank you enough. It was a pleasure working with you. I’ll see you soon!”

She waved walking back into her private dressing room. The façade melted off her face as she collapsed into her chair with a groan.

“I’m so over this.”

She raised her head, gazing at her reflection curiously. Is this what all the fuss was about? Her face? She ran her fingers across her cheeks delicately, being mindful of the cosmetics. It was just a face, and a face people fawned over her for. So much trouble it caused. Too much attention. She ran her hands through the brown and honey tinted coils with a frown, another pout forming. Looks that made men weep or rather run from….literally.

Feeling quite sad for herself, she got up from her seat and went to change out of the bikini.

Unbeknownst to her, Jaebeom had disguised himself as one of the production assistants from the photoshoot. Having easily found out the location of the photoshoot—thank Zeus for Twitter—it didn’t take much to slip inside for the Sports Illustrated shoot. He found his victim, sprinkling the sleeping powder over them, and hid them behind some bushes. Changing his appearance was easy as he walked towards the dressing room where she would be. Jaebeom tiptoed in looking around and saw her back to him.

This is gonna be easier than I thought.

He pulled a slim container out with darts...times had certainly changed. Arrows were a thing of the past and bulky too. Each color signified a different emotion– white: admiration; pink: puppy love; red: lust and/or sensuality; purple: deep unselfconscious love. He pushed the thoughts away. Once this was over he’d be off to go about his business...until his mother needed him again.

All he had to do was make her fall for a vile creature as he struck her with a dart and she’d be taken care of. But as he reached for a dart, removing the cap, a phone rang out making her head pop out from the changing room curtain. The sound made Jaebeom jump and one of his darts slipped and pricked his finger.

“Shit!”

Psyche ran out of the changing room holding her flip-flops in one hand. Her eyes opened in surprise to see him standing there. He froze as their eyes met.

“Oh. Hello.” She chuckled, going to sit in her chair. “Did they still need me? I thought I was done for the day.”

He let out a breath. She thinks I work here. The disguise works!

“Uh–” He gulped as a wave of euphoria washed over him. Oh, fuck! Shit! Shit! Oh my Zeus I want her!

Sitting there in just a simple white tank top and shorts made her beauty stand out even more. His heart fluttered hard in his chest.

Stuttering, he glanced around trying to think of an excuse. He had to get away from her. Not when his emotions were so high. The effects of the dart were getting harder to fight. Psyche’s lips turned downward in a frown.

“Is everything alright?” she asked with care. “Are you coming down with something? I know it was extremely hot outside today.”

Jaebeom wanted nothing more than to profess his undying love for her at that moment. To wipe the frown from her face and wrap her in his arms. As he stepped forward, a voice cut into the hair.

“Psyche! Your ride is here!”

She let out a tiny gasp and slipped on her sandals. Grabbing her bag, she walked past him, laying her hand on his arm with a gentle squeeze. “Hope you feel better.”

As she exited the door, the smell of her perfume lingered in the air. Ylang Ylang, jasmine, and rosewood invaded his nostrils. He closed his eyes grasping at the scent not wanting to forget it.

I need her. I want her. She has to be in my life...I-I shit no! What am I doing?! I’m fucked…I want to worship the ground she walks on!!

Jaebeom quickly disappeared, waking the sleeping assistant as he left the site without being detected.

^^^^

“Daughter!”

Psyche let out an audible groan. Barely a minute she’d entered the house and she was being summoned by her father. A maid came in to retrieve her bag as she walked into the main foyer. Her father was sitting in his favorite chair playing cards with her oldest sister. Her other sister sat crossed leg on the couch stuffing her face with chocolates.

Lovely. They were here too.

Plastering a strained smile, she walked towards her father and placed a kiss on his cheek.

“Daddy, I thought you’d be in bed by now.”

“Nonsense! I wanted to make sure you arrived home safely.” He glanced at his eldest daughter with a nod. “Isn’t that right Jessica?”

She lifted her brow as she placed a card down on the table. “Quite,” she said, directing her gaze to Psyche. “How was your shoot, little sister?” She chuckled waiting for their father to make a move. “It would be pointless to ask though. You always do well.”

Psyche caught the slight edge in her voice but ignored it. Tonight, she wanted a peaceful interaction with her family that didn’t end in a screaming match...usually focused on her absence of a wedding ring.

Victoria sat up, wiping her fingers of smeared chocolate. “Oh, you won’t believe the news, Psy. I found the absolute perfect person for you.”

Here we go again.

“Victoria–” She began feeling the workings of a migraine form.

“Hear me out! He’s a close friend of my husband. Very wealthy, ivy league bred, and oh so handsome. He’s following in his father's footsteps to become a judge!” she gushed, bouncing on the couch, leaning over the back at Psyche.

The young woman bit down on her thumbnail. “I don’t know…”

“What have you got to lose? Time is dwindling down slowly,” Jessica edged, raising her brow.

She was baiting her. Psyche held back an insult as her father glanced at her with pleading eyes. “He’s a fair match for mi cielito. just consider it?”

She sighed with a reluctant nod. The subject wouldn’t be dropped and Psyche had no energy left to argue. “Alright. When am I meeting him?”

Her father beamed, setting his cards down with a flourish. “Tonight!”

Psyche sputtered looking around the room. “What? Tonight?!”

Victoria bounded off the couch, grabbing her hand. “Yes, we don’t have time. He’s arriving within the hour. Let’s get you dressed!”

Psyche’s jaw dropped in wordless surprise as she was dragged up the stairs to her room.

^^^^

Jaebeom paced across the hardwood floors muttering to himself. His mind was a jumbled mess. All he could think about was her. He groaned raking a hand through his hair as he looked out the window. All he could see was her. The part of his arm where she touched still felt warm. He shuddered remembering the smell of her perfume. It was intoxicating. He closed his eyes as he threw his head back. What he wouldn’t have given to be that close to her once more.

Jaebeom!”

His eyes snapped open with a start.

Jackson stood in the doorframe staring curiously at his friend. He shoved his hands in his pants pockets and leaned against the door casually. It seemed that there was a glow surrounding his body, well defined in the suit. The jacket undone, revealing a plain white shirt with ‘Gucci’ stamped across. Hair, a chestnut brown framed his face to show off his features. The God of the Sun was a man in all senses. Jackson was quite pleased with this new form.

He gave Jaebeom a strange expression. “You were moaning.”

Jaebeom's face reddened as he looked away. “I was?”

Jackson’s face cracked a grin that slowly turned into laughter. “Yes. I don’t even want to know what was going through your mind.”

Jaebeom let out a frustrated cry and slammed his fists onto the glass table. Resting his head there for a moment, he tried to gather his thoughts.

“I-I’m fucked Jackson,” he mumbled.

His friend’s lips turned down as he walked further in. He headed over to the cabinet and poured them each a drink. He closed the distance holding out the glass for him. “Take a sip, breathe, and tell me what’s going on.”

Jaebeom lifted his head and took the glass firmly into his hands. Taking tentative sips, he let the liquid wash over him. He gave Jackson a stare. “Ambrosia?”

Jackson winked. “Only the best.”

Jaebeom chuckled. “Ass kisser.”

Jackson laughed again, slapping a hand on his back. “Being the God of the Sun has its perks,” he replied nonchalantly.

Jaebeom muttered, “Bullshit. You’re one of his favorites.” He walked around the room with a grumble. “I’m like the bastard step child.”

“Welp you did screw him over one too many times with all those women,” Jackson teased.

Jaebeom swallowed the remainder of his ambrosia and grimaced. “He shouldn’t have fucked over my mom.”

“And there it is folks, Jaebeom’s is a mama’s boy!” Jackson yelled into the office.

“Shut up,” he snapped. “I am not,” he stuttered, looking down at the floor. “We just understand each other.”

“Sure,” Jackson replied, rolling his eyes. He cut a glance at his watch. “You’re stalling Jaebeom. You never stall. What’s going on?” He tapped his foot impatiently. “I have dinner plans with my wife.”

Jaebeom’s eyes watered as a cry threatened to spill out. He tugged at his hair feeling the effects of being too far from her.

“P-Psyche!”

Jackson frowned. “Who?”

“Psyche,” he repeated with a choke covering his face. “I-I was supposed to curse her for mother and I hit myself with one of my darts!” He pulled his hands down to glare at his friend. “I-I can’t live without her now.” He threw his hands in the air pacing around the couches. “Mother told me I had to take care of it before she gets back from her trip, but I can't let anything happen to her.” He gave Jackson a pleading look. “Help me!”

Jackson shook his head in disbelief. “Damn, you are fucked.” He let out a nervous chuckle. “What do you want me to do about it? This doesn’t seem like something I can help with.”

Jaebeom dropped to his knees with a wail. “Please! I don't know who else to ask.”

Shit.

Jackson spun around to look out the window surveying the skyline. He hated to see another friend in anguish. Hell, he was indebted to him. Had it not been for Jaebeom, he would have never met Daphne. He looked over his shoulder at his friend. The man looked positively undone. With a loud sigh, he walked over and bent down in front of him.

“I’ll do it.”

Jaebeom looked up with hopeful eyes. “R-Really?”

Jackson’s shoulders dropped with a groan. “I hate to see you like this.” Rubbing his eyes, he let out a sigh. “Alright, I’ll look into her life: family, likes, dislikes, etc. just be ready when I get back to you. I’ll call you later this week.”

He groaned staring at his watch. “Shit. Daphne is going to kill me!” He grabbed his keys off the table and ran for the door. “Lock up when you leave!”

Jaebeom let out a breath of relief and stared out the windows.

^^^

Psyche eyed the fork next to her plate. The urge to stab herself in her eye was overwhelming. Crap, anything to get her out of this dinner would suffice. After being practically treated like a Barbie doll, her sisters and father shoved her outside towards this man...if you would consider him one.

Oily would have been a better word to describe him. He couldn’t stop staring at her on their drive to the restaurant. Drowning on and on about his job.

“Of course I went to Harvard. Father would have had a heart attack if I went to Yale.”

Thankfully, the restaurant wasn’t far from her home and they were seated immediately after walking inside.

She took a long sip of her water and glanced over the menu. He’d been too busy looking in his reflection in one of the spoons to notice the server coming forward to greet them. Psyche chuckled nervously giving the server a look of apology.

“Nars?”

He fixed his hair in the spoon, making small kissing noises. Psyche frowned as her gaze hardened.

“Nars!” This time her tone was sharper.

He looked away begrudgingly. “Hmm? You were saying?”

She sighed, settling in her chair. “Our server is inquiring about drinks.”

He let out a huff of annoyance barely giving the poor man a glance. “Pellegrino with lemon. Lots of it.” He gave her a dazzling smile across the table. “I don’t put toxins into my body. Only clean living.”

His phone began to vibrate and held a finger up to answer the call.

Psyche gave another fake laugh. “That’s interesting.” As the server went to exit past her, she pulled on his coat tail. “Vodka and lime...double. Keep them coming.”

The server acknowledged her and walked off.

Nars ended his call and gave Psyche a wink. “Soooo, Victoria informed me you’re a model.”

Psyche nodded as their drinks came and she took a generous sip from her glass. She sighed happily. This was going to take all her patience...and liquor to get her through this trainwreck of a date.

“Yes, I model.”

Nars chuckled, drumming his hands on the table. “Must be nice to have a hobby.”

Psyche’s lips turned down staring at him. “I wouldn’t call it a hobby. It’s a job. A lifestyle. Though I sort of fell into it, I’ve learned to appreciate it.”

“Yeah. Yeah,” he nodded, not really listening. “Well, once you settle down, you won’t have to worry your pretty little self about it.”

Her cheeks burned as she shifted in her chair. Her shoe tapped against the leg of the table. The more she sat with him, the more she could see how bad this was going. “I’m not sure what you mean.”

Nars sighed reaching over to squeeze her hand, Psyche recoiling from his touch. He ignored her expression and continued talking. “It’s simple. When we get married you won't need to work. I’ll take care of the finances and you’ll take care of the household.”

Psyche snorted as she yanked her hand away from his. “I don’t know what world you’re living in, but I can assure you, we won’t be getting married.”

Nars froze giving her an odd look. Flustered, he tried to recover. “How can you say that, Psyche? Your father–”

“My father has nothing to do with anything,” her voice rising as she stood up. “But I know one thing, this disaster of a date is over and I’m leaving!”

She snatched her purse up and stormed out of the restaurant leaving Nars in a stupor. Everyone around the restaurant looked in surprise, whispering to each other.

In the divider next to Nar’s table, Jackson sat there with his wife. A bemused expression on his face. Daphne turned back in her chair to face him.

“Honey, what was that all about?”

Jackson chuckled while taking a sip of wine. “I haven’t the slightest clue.”

His eyes glinted in mischief. An idea already forming in his mind.

^^^

After that disastrous date—if you were to call it that—she went to walk around on the beach to clear her thoughts. Losing track of time, she barely had enough battery left to get a ride back home.

Psyche tipped the Uber driver and wished them a goodnight before walking into her home. The sun had already begun to rise. She glanced at her watch and winced. She’d been out all night.

She slipped off her heels placing them in her hand as she walked up to her room, making sure not to make a sound. A sigh of relief passed her lips as she walked by the living room. No one was there.

Good. Everyone should still be in bed.

She took the steps two at a time going to the end of the hall towards her room. Luckily, the rest of the doors were shut so no one would know she went by. Her posture relaxed as she pushed her door open to the darkened room. Just then, the lamp ner her dresser clicked on. She jumped in surprise to see her father sitting by the window.

“Hello, mi cielito.”

“Papi,” she cried, clutching her chest. “You scared me!” Psyche breathed for a moment collecting her thoughts. Confusion passed her face. “Wait. Why are you in my room?”

He crossed his arms over his chest staring at her in disappointment. “You know how long I stayed awake waiting for you to come home?” He grunted as he rose from his position. “I thought maybe you and Nars hit it off and were getting to know each other more and lost track of time. But to my surprise, he calls Victoria livid that you walked out on your date with him after hurling some insults.”

“Papi, I–”

“–I say ‘No mi cielito, she’s my angel’. But then you wouldn’t answer your phone.”

Psyche shook her head, “Listen, I went for a walk and lost track of time. I barely had enough battery to get back home. Seriously,” she babbled before her temper flared. “I did him a favor. He was the worst human being I’ve ever come across. I would rather do a photoshoot in the dead of winter than see Nars again!”

“That’s it!” Her father roared making her tremble. He stomped his foot, stalking towards her. “We tried this the easy way Psyche, but you’re breaking our hearts,” he growled. “You’re going to see a matchmaker. Tonight!”

“But–”

“I don’t want to hear it. We leave in the evening!” He pushed past, slamming the door behind her.

^^^

“So let me get this straight, I have to pretend to be a matchmaker that uses the stars to find her match?”

Jackson blinked at Daphne helping her with the costume. “When you put it that way, it sounds ridiculous.”

She adjusted the dress tying back the straps and gave him a bemused smirk. “Well honey, it does.” She walked over to the mirror to adjust her lipstick. “I mean why can’t Jaebeom just tell her how he feels? Why the whole song and dance?”

Jackson sighed out loud combing through his hair. “Dumpling, we talked about it. He can’t unless she comes willingly. Her heart has to be open to the possibility.”

Besides, he’s under the influence of his darts, that dumbass.

Daphne brushed her hair into a bun and shrugged. “Whatever you say, dear. I’ll help. Plus I’m tired of him moping around our house. I miss our privacy.”

Jackson chuckled reaching down to kiss her forehead gently. “Me too. We help Jaebeom, we get our place back.”

A knock came from the door making them part. Jackson smiled giving her a once-over. “Showtime. just remember what we discussed and it all will go according to the plan.”

Daphne pressed a quick kiss to his lips and ran from the back room into the main area. She looked impressed at how quickly Jackson was able to change their living room. It almost reminded her of those little psychic shops around the city.

She walked over to the door opening it with a smile. Psyche and her father stood in the doorway, one smiling with the other scowling.

Daphne gestured wide. “Come in! Come in! Please. I’ve been expecting you. Welcome!”

Psyche’s father pulled her inside as he looked around. “Thank you for seeing us on such short notice.”

Daphne tsked, leading them to the couches. “Nonsense. I always have time for a match.” She replied, taking a seat. Psyche’s father nodded with a wide grin, taking a spot on the couch next to Psyche. Psyche crossed her legs staring hard across the coffee table. “Let’s just get this over with.”

Daphne smirked. “Very well. We shall go into the back room and I will give you guidance–”

“I would like to be present,” her father interjected.

Daphne frowned. “That’s not how it works sir.” She chuckled, grabbing the teapot and poured a cup of tea. “There are many ways to give her results so we shall see.” Daphne pushed the cup towards Psyche with a reassuring smile. “Drink, but don’t swallow the dregs of the leaves. This is how I will be able to see you are supposed to be matched with.”

Psyche muttered as she grabbed the cup. This was ridiculous. The only reason she even agreed to this was so her father would stop pressing her about marriage.

This probably won’t do anything. She won’t come up with a match.

Psyche sipped the tea, grimacing at the bitter notes. Swallowing it in three big gulps, she shoved the cup to Daphne and sat back on the couch.

Daphne took the cup and swirled the tea dregs, whispering to herself. She let out a cry, almost dropping the cup. Her eyes widened as she stared at Psyche.

“In a fortnight, you’ll meet your fate. Under the Rose moon in black garments, you’ll meet your true love...or suffer.”

Daphne instantly dropped against the couch. Psyche’s father ran over to her in attempt to wake her. “Señora? Señora, are you alright?”

Daphne’s eyelids fluttered as she looked from Psyche to her father. “Forgive me, I...I lost myself for a moment.”

“No, no! You opened my eyes. We will listen to your words, right mi cielito?” He glanced at his daughter.

Psyche remained still on the couch. Her mind is running wild. What on earth did that woman mean? This was crazy. Too crazy to even comprehend. She didn’t know why, but a sense of dread fell over her. This wouldn’t end well. And she was positive her father wouldn’t take this message seriously.

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nymphigeon · 5 years ago

Text

Roses Have Thorns

♡ Pairing; Jungkook x Reader

♡ Genre; Angst, Fluff, Fantasy!AU, Supernatural!AU, S2L, Student!Jungkook, Wizard!Jungkook, Angel!Reader, Demon!Reader, Student!Reader

♡ Warnings (for this chapter); Mentions of murder, swearing

♡ Rating; NC-17

♡ Words; 3363

♡ Summary; A girl forced to live in fear because of her own power. Even though she isn’t supposed to exist, she wants to live. She’ll just make sure that she breaks herself over and over until there is nothing left of her. He, of course, won’t let her.

♡ A/N; The first chapter! I was really scared when I posted the prologue as I wasn’t sure what others would think of it, but I’m happy to see people liked it. Please let me know what you think! Enjoy!

Series masterlist

Prologue Chapter one Chapter Two

Chapter One

The sound of heels clicking against a marble floor resonates through the long, spacious hallway. As the woman wearing the heels comes closer to reaching her destination, her steps slow down. Finally, she comes to a halt in front of two huge wooden doors.

She closes her eyes and takes in a deep breath, preparing herself for the conversation about to take place. After a slow exhale, the woman opens up her eyes and strongly knocks on one of the two giant doors. Not even two seconds later she hears the doors creaking.

A line of light shows between the doors, indicating that soon she’ll be faced with the nightmare she likes to avoid most. The woman is terrified, but she will absolutely not show it. She can’t, this is too important.

A space existing out of white walls decorated with swirls of gold presents itself. Big windows replace the wall furthest away from the door, filling every corner with natural light, and amplifying the shiny diamond-filled ceiling.

An older looking woman wearing a beautiful, and no doubt, expensive looking dress stands in front of the windows. Her body has been turned away from the doorway, choosing to look down upon the country she rules instead of her frightened visitor.

“Come in, Elenora.” She demands. The woman named Elenora walks into the room, only stopping when she gets to the middle. She drops herself into a low bow before standing up straight again. The doors behind her close, she is trapped.

“I’m sure you know why I summoned you here today.”

Elenora opens her mouth to reply, but gets stopped by the other woman raising her hand into the air. Just as quickly as her lips parted, she closes them.

“Recently a certain group of commoners have decided to protest in front of the castle.” The woman decided she no longer wants to face the city. She turns around to look at the middle of the room. “Do you know why?”

Elenora contemplates how exactly she should answer. It was already clear why the queen wanted to speak to her way before coming here, but no matter how many times Elenora went over the reactions her words could elicit, every single possibility ended in doom.

The woman raises an eyebrow at Elenora’s silence. “Well? Answer me.” Her voice is cold and harsh. “Yes, Your Majesty. I know.” Elenora finally speaks. “They aren’t satisfied and demand that Your Majesty’s crown is transferred to somebody else.” She holds her head high as she speaks. She will not let this woman bring her down.

“Exactly, you seem to know well.” The queen chuckles, but there is no real amusement to be found in the sound. “You protect my role as your queen and I will protect that daughter of yours.” The queen steps forward and walks in Elenora’s direction.

“That was the deal, wasn’t it?”

She slowly walks around Elenora in a circle. “Yes, Your Majesty.” Elenora refuses to let the disapproving gaze of the queen intimidate her. “Then why are there these commoners that want me gone?” The queen stops at Elenora’s right side.

“It’s very difficult to convince everyone of Your Majesty’s goodwill.” You know, it’s very difficult to convince a mob of angry people that a certain female is trying to protect them, while her life is showered in money stolen from the those very angry people themselves.

Elenora can’t help but flinch at the queen’s next words. “Get rid of them.” The queen doesn’t shout, she doesn’t need to. Her stone cold voice is enough to make goose bumps appear on anyone’s skin.

“If you fail to do so, your daughter will no longer be under my protection.” The queen raises her hand in front of Elenora’s face. Silver sparkles appear in the palm of her hand and beyond. A few moments later, the queen is holding a sword. She moves it under Elenora’s chin, close to the front of her throat.

“And you might just disappear from the face of the earth.”

She smiles wickedly before her lips turn back into a straight line. “I know, Your Majesty.” Elenora hasn’t moved an inch from her spot. “Very well.” The sword disappears and the queen lowers her hand. She walks back to her previous position at the back of the room.

With her back turned to the rest of the room, she waves Elenora off. “You may leave.” The doors open up at the words of the queen. Elenora bows one last time before turning around and walking out of the room. The doors close back up behind her and a lock is turned. Elenora lets out a breath she didn’t know she was holding. That went better than expected.

“One, two, three, four…”

The light pitter-patter of children feet can be heard as soon as you start counting. The steps get further and further away until you can no longer hear them.

“Eleven, twelve, thirteen…”

You take your hands away from your face knowing the kids are long gone by now. Smiling, you keep counting. You promised them you wouldn’t turn around until you hit twenty.

“Seventeen, eighteen, nineteen…”

Right when the mark has been hit you turn around to look both ways. “The monster has been released!” You yell as you start running to your left, looking behind every pillar as you go. They’re not so stupid as to hide behind one of those, but just in case they are, it would be unfortunate to miss them.

You stop when you get to one of the unused bedrooms in the mansion, knowing very well who has hidden here and where, but for the fun of it you’ll pretend to be clueless for now. “Where could you have gone?” You ask out loud.

Someone is clearly trying to muffle the sound of them giggling. You make your over to the king-sized bed in the room, first pulling off the covers to scare the kid underneath the piece of furniture.

“You’re not here?” Children love it when those way older than them exaggerate their speech, and your cousins are no different. “Then what about under the bed?”

You get to your knees to look under the bed, slowly, just to build up some of that tension you feel right before you get caught. Before you are able to fully plant yourself to the ground, a giggling mess runs from under the bed to the door.

“Catch me!” He sticks out his tongue and runs out. You’re not far behind, following the boy out of the room and quickly gaining in on him. “Gotcha!” You open up your arms and wrap them around the boy when you’re close enough.

“Y/N! That’s not fair, you have longer legs!” He attempts to look angry, which pretty much fails as he only looks cuter with the pout he’s wearing. Besides that, he can’t get his smile to turn upside down.

“I played fair and square Jaebeom.” You laugh as you let him go. “Now where are the others?” It’s probably silly to expect an answer from him. Jaebeom isn’t one for snitching.

“Not telling! I will lose with pride!” He runs away, to where you don’t know. You walk after him, making sure he safely gets to the living room. If anything were to happen to him, your aunt would most likely fry you alive.

Jaebeom, who hasn’t noticed you following him from a distance, makes a move to enter the kitchen instead of the living room. Stretching his arm out, he reaches for the door handle, but comes just short. He huffs out in frustration, trying again soon after.

As much fun as it is to watch him struggle, determined to do this on his own, you really don’t want him to fall over. You may not be living the best live, but you’re not yet prepared to be dunked into a human seized frying pan.

When you get closer to the struggling kid, he gasps loudly at having been caught. Somehow his brain still believes he can just pretend nothing happened. With that the kid turns around, happily walking to the living room this time.

As you walk into the kitchen you look around for any sign of life. There are only a few cupboards big and empty enough to fit a child in. You knock on one of the doors, hoping to just scare the girl out of her hiding spot, but she stays still.

Moving to another cupboard, you place your hand on the handle. The door swings open, revealing a kid curled up in herself. She pouts and climbs out. “I want to eat pancakes.” She whines.

“Maybe next time sweetheart. Juwon is the last one hiding so he wins.” You pat her head and gently push her in the direction of the living room where Jaebeom is seated.

“Juwon! You win, you can come out now!” You yell through the house, not really expecting him to hear it. The space the children can play in is limited, it would be too dangerous to give them access to the entire mansion. Though, even that limited space is quite big and you don’t have a loud voice.

You walk around a bit, but see no sign of him. He also doesn’t seem to hear your calls for him. “Where would a 10 year old hide?” You sigh after having looked through all the accessible rooms, even having checked a few corridors outside of the children play area. The only place you haven’t been yet is outside.

You walk outside into the garden and immediately spot Juwon looking at the flowers blooming at the side of the garden. “I’ve been looking all over for you and you weren’t even trying to hide.” You smile and pluck a flower, giving it to him.

“I didn’t think you would come out here.” He accepts the flower and looks up at you. “Well you were right, you won.” You take his hand to walk back inside. “I want pizza.” Juwon decides to keep his eyes on the flower. “Then we’ll have pizza.”

“Thank you for looking after them today Y/N.” Your aunt doesn’t look at you as she says it, being more interested in something in her purse. “No problem. They’re my cousins, I don’t mind having to babysit them.”

You look over your aunt’s shoulder to her car. Jaebeom is already fast asleep in the backseat while the other two haven’t even entered yet. “Here you go.” A tiny red pouch is handed to you.

“As a thank you.” She smiles at you as you reluctantly accept the pouch. “I can’t take this, you shouldn’t have…” The volume of your voice lowers as you see your aunt shaking her head. “Take it, I want you to have it. I already bought it anyway.”

She brings her hand up to stroke your cheek. “Take care of yourself dear.” You nod and tell her to take care as well, earning another sweet smile.

After waving the family off, you step back inside. You yawn and lean against the closed door. Your cousins have been full of energy. While it’s fun playing with them, it’s also tiring. Compared to their age you feel ancient. Next time your mom plays with them, you’ll make sure to compliment her on it.

The door to your bedroom opening wakes you up. “Were you sleeping? I’m sorry.” Only her silhouette is visible to your sleep filled eyes, the hallway light behind her too bright for your liking. Somewhere your brain wonders if she’s really sorry, as your mom walks into your room without waiting for your signal, closing the door behind her.

“No it’s fine, I actually wasn’t supposed to fall asleep.” You might’ve just fallen asleep before you could even start working on any of your projects. Not that it really matters, you’re way ahead of your class, but if you slack off now all your hard work will be for nothing.

After stretching and sitting up you face your mother. “How did it go?” You carefully ask. This has always been a touchy subject, you don’t really like talking about it. Not giving your mother any emotional support though also feels wrong. “It went well, a lot better than I expected honestly. I just need to get rid of the protestors and then we’re all set again.”

Your mother looks tired. Always trying so hard, not complaining even once. It’s not fair. “You need to stop thi-.” “They’ll kill you.” She interrupts you. “And after that it’s my turn.” She looks away from you, pain flashing across her face. “You know that.” She’s hurting, you do know, but there is little you can do. So you stay silent.

It’s your fault. It’s your fault. It’s your fault. It’s your f-

“I love you.” Your mother embraces you and kisses your forehead. “I love you too.” You reply, but your voice breaks in the middle. “And I’m sorry.” You can’t cry now, you’ve already caused your mother enough trouble. “Don’t be, it’s me who should apologise.” You look up to see your mother’s sad smile. She’s doing all this for what? A fuck up of a daughter?

“You already did too much apologizing.” Your mother closes her eyes and shakes her head. “I’ll protect you.” She’s determined, she always has been. As long as you’ve known her she’s never been a woman of giving up. To her, that’s her way of showing she can do good, that she’s not what other people deem her to be.

“You shouldn’t have to.” But she isn’t really listening anymore. This conversation is over. “Get some rest, you’re tired.” The one who is the most tired won’t rest though. Such a hypocrite.

She strokes your head and gets up. “Don’t worry about it anymore, I’ll take care of it.” Not wating for a response, she immediately leaves the room.

Maybe they should just kill you.

“Y/N! Wait!” You stop walking and turn around to the familiar voice calling for you. “Let’s have lunch together.” Chanmi walks past you, immediately expecting you to follow her.

Chanmi was one of the first friends you ever made. Being raised by a wealthy family made it so that you’ve constantly been under protection. You didn’t go out much and mostly got home schooled during your elementary school years.

One day your mother had brought you to a playground close to home, meeting up with one of her friends. Just as she had turned her eyes away from you, you fell down from the monkey bars onto the sand below. It didn’t hurt much, but as a child who wanted to be comforted you screamed your lungs out.

Instead of your mother, another girl at the playground reached you first. She looked to be around 2 years older than you, worry displayed on her face. With the kind soul she had, and still has, she helped you up and took care of any small injuries you had. When your mother saw the interaction she deliberately stayed back to see how things would turn out.

Now 16 years later, you and Chanmi are still good friends. After convincing your parents you’d be fine to get educated outside of school, you joined the same high school and university as her. Calling Chanmi a childhood friend seems to fit that description.

“Mister Wilson just had to fill in for miss Robinson. Apparently she became extremely sick over the weekend and won’t be teaching for at least a week. I’ve never seen him before but I’m already sure he is the worst teacher I’ve ever had.” She starts to complain as soon as you reach the cafeteria.

“We don’t have to hand in our financial services project for another week but he demanded we hand it in tomorrow! Does he think anyone will listen to that? Nobody has finished it yet!” You haven’t been able to concentrate on anything today, but you do your best to listen to her.

“My partner leaves everything up to me as well. I really need a high grade for this if I want to pass that class.” She drops her head to the table, whining about her partner some more before turning so she can see you from this position.

“You’ve had it rough today.” You speak for the first time since she came up to you. “You usually don’t complain that much about classes.” You switch your gaze from the lunch in front of you to your friend. Chanmi is more interesting anyway.

“Everyone has a breaking point.” She raises her head back up and sighs. “I’ll just complain to his mentor.” Chanmi grins like she just thought of the best plan ever, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Snitch.” You chuckle.

“I’d rather get stitches than having to fail that class.” She shrugs as she chugs her water bottle empty, briefly wishing it was something stronger. “Putting my problems aside for now, what’s up? You haven’t touched your food at all.”

She raises a piece of bread to your mouth, being the caring friend that she is. You take a small bite but leave it at that. Usually you don’t mind being fed by her, but today you wished she wouldn’t. “Not hungry.” You don’t feel like explaining yourself.

“Why? Are you okay?” She looks worried, but you can’t tell her anything. “I had to babysit my cousins yesterday and now I’m exhausted.” You lie to her. She doesn’t need to know the real reason.

“Make sure you rest today.” She holds the piece of bread up to you again. You take one more bite, but as soon as you do, the nausea hits you. “I’ll eat later.” You lie once again, this time to both yourself and her.

Concentrate Jungkook. You just have to imagine water. You’ve seen water your entire life. The ocean, lakes, rivers, tap water, bottled water-

“Argh! How am I supposed to just make water appear?” Jungkook pulls at his hair in frustration. “You’re able to levitate yourself into the air but you can’t make water appear?” Namjoon shakes his head. “Besides, it’s not just ‘making water appear’. You’re just taking the water already present in the air and building upon that. C’mon, try again.”

Namjoon shoves the bowl closer to Jungkook. Jungkook, however, is having none of it. He mutters a quick spell and the bowl breaks into a few shards of glass. Namjoon stares at the broken bowl for a few seconds before standing up, irritation clear in the movement.

“Fine, but at this rate you’ll never get it.” He turns around, ready to walk away. He doesn’t get the chance to actually walk away though, as before he can even take a step, he is completely soaked.

Jungkook bursts out laughing behind him. “I am a genius!” He praises himself as he holds his stomach. Namjoon wipes the water from his face and looks back at Jungkook. “Good job, but you won’t get away with this.”

Right after, Jungkook too feels a huge splash of water falling on top of him. He instantly stops laughing and instead frowns. “I guess I deserved that one.” He shakes his head around like a dog, trying to prevent the water dripping down his fringe from getting into his eyes. “I’ll go change” He announces before sauntering to his room.

When he walks past Namjoon he gets stopped by a hand on his shoulder. “I’m glad you can still laugh.” Namjoon smiles at him. He removes his hand when Jungkook looks back at him. “I know Luna is still after you.” Lowering his eyes, Namjoon seems apprehensive, not sure whether it was a good idea to bring the group up.

“I just hope you can still relax.” It must have been on Namjoon’s mind quite a lot for him to let Jungkook know like this. “I’ll be fine!” Jungkook forces himself to sound cheerful. “When they find out I don’t have what they want they won’t attack me.” He pulls on Namjoon’s sleeve.

“Let’s go dry up before we catch a cold.”

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prettywordsyouleft · 6 years ago

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As Long As It Takes

Prompt: #107 for @listlessmaenads – “Come for a drive with me.”

Anonymous said:

Hey Chelle! Can you pretty please, do a drabble request for me? Jaebeom, S2L or F2L, your choice, with this prompt? 107. “Come for a drive with me.” I'm ready to die instantly upon reading. - The Other Kat. (listlessmaenads)

Pairing: Im Jaebum x reader

Genre: strangers to lovers

Warnings: none

Word count: 1472

“Come for a drive with me.”

You should have said no.

After all, who in their right mind gets into the car with someone they barely knew?

Then again, you hadn’t been in your right mind for days. Still, warning bells were flashing at the back of your head right now as you opened the passenger door to the car, hopping in without stopping to contemplate a single second further of doubt.

It wasn’t as if he was a complete stranger, you reasoned. Jaebum was someone who often frequented the coffee shop you worked at, and much like most regular customers, you had learned little details about him outside of his order you now knew how to make perfectly each and every time.

Except, you wouldn’t be doing that anymore.

Slipping the belt around yourself, you shivered due to the chill now seeping through your sodden clothing and into your bones. Before you could do anything, Jaebum had reached for a blanket from the back seat and wrapped it around you, then turned up the heating.

Had he taken pity on you and your sudden unemployment? You stared at him in small increments, growing bolder the longer you did so. Was he always this handsome or had you simply fallen for his charms of giving you a carriage ride away from your misfortune? It was easy to relish in the comforts of a warm car when outside was lashing with rain. The skies were letting loose much as you had to your boss just before. You wanted to laugh. You had the urge to cry.

Instead, you stared at Jaebum.

“Where do you want to go?” he eventually asked, eyes still on the road. Hands tightening around the steering wheel. You realised Jaebum was anxious in your presence.

He had done his part as a fellow citizen by now. He had removed you from the situation that had left you standing on the side of street staring to the heavens entirely helpless. He really didn’t need to do anything more for you. You smiled weakly. “You can just drop me off at the nearest bus stop.”

“Why?” He shot you a look and then shook his head. “No, it’s fine. I want to take you somewhere.”

“Where?” you implored and he shrugged, which made you giggle. When had you last laughed? The sound surprised you, falling effortlessly from your mouth.

It made Jaebum relax as well. “Anywhere you want to go. I’ll take you there.”

“Even if it’s far away?”

“Even then.”

“Because you’re a fellow human in this world surviving through the daily grind?” you asked and Jaebum shook his head.

“I don’t pity you, Y/N. What you said to that jerk of a man was well-deserved. What he was subjecting his staff to is illegal. You are entitled to breaks and to deny the right of someone who needs to go to the bathroom is inhumane. Sticking up for your fellow staff member wasn’t the wrong thing to do.”

“Got me fired though,” you mused with a sigh. “Which I really didn’t need since my roommate just disappeared overnight without paying this month’s rent the other day. I snapped because I wasn’t diligent enough and too self-involved with my own issues.”

“You’ve done enough,” Jaebum assured and you went back to staring at him, this time, Jaebum picking up on it and darting his eyes between you and the road repetitively. His cheeks coloured. “What? Is there something on my face?”

“Mm.”

He frowned and started to wipe at himself all over. You giggled as he grew exasperated. “What is it?!”

“You have kindness in your eyes. Do you go and save all the damsel’s in distress on a regular basis?”

“Actually, this is my first time,” he admitted, rubbing the back of his neck before chuckling. “I’m not a weird guy, I promise.”

“I wouldn’t have gotten in the car if I didn’t trust you.”

Jaebum stilled for a moment and then smirked. “How do you know to trust me?”

“Because,” you started with a roll of your eyes, folding your arms across your chest. “You openly show your emotions.”

“Really?” he glanced at you momentarily. “No one has ever said that to me.”

“Well, I just did.”

“And I just rescued you, right?”

You nodded. “Very much so. For the interim anyway. I still don’t know what to do with everything else.”

Jaebum pulled the car to a stop outside of a convenience store. You eyed him questioningly and he grinned, told you to wait there and then dashed inside. He returned with a bag of assorted foods – both hot and cold – and a couple of drinks. He placed the bag in your lap. “You haven’t eaten today, right?”

“How did you-”

“I work across from the coffee shop, remember? My desk’s view is directly over the street. I didn’t see you leave that counter once. Besides, you were fired for fighting for human rights so I assumed that meant your own weren’t being met either.”

You smiled and reached into the bag for something to eat first. It all smelt delicious and you thanked him before starting to eat. He took a packet of food out for himself before continuing with the drive.

“I have a good friend in the legal sector by the way. His name is Park Jinyoung and he works for a pretty successful law firm. I’m sure if we ran your unlawful dismissal passed him that you’d be able to sue for several claims. We definitely have a case here.”

“I can’t afford a lawyer, Jaebum.” You stared down at the food and then snapped your focus back to his face. He had been generous enough already and you began to wave your hands about wildly. “You can’t pay for that too!”

Jaebum laughed heartily. “Jinyoung can apply for funding so he can work pro bono on your case.”

“Wow, not only are you a great at picking me up out of my misery, but you’re also pretty insightful too.”

“Well shucks, I aim to please.”

Now that your hunger was somewhat satiated, you stared out the window as the darkened world whizzed by. You noticed a specific building and then frowned. “Didn’t we pass that before? Are we driving around in circles?”

“Well, you didn’t exactly give me directions on where you wanted to go,” Jaebum mumbled as a grin spread over your lips. You poked his upper arm and he glanced at you before matching your smile. “It’s not all that bad though. We’re still on a drive.”

“What will be our destination?”

“To be honest, I don’t know.” He gripped the steering wheel again and you hid your smile behind your hand. He was too adorable for you to handle. “I kind of don’t want the drive to end.”

“Really? You want to keep going all night long?”

“Until I know more about you,” he stated and you pulled your legs up so you could rest upon them. Jaebum glanced at you and then back at the road. “Is… is that too creepy?”

“No.”

“Are you sure? You can tell me if I’m being too much.”

“Too much over what?” you questioned as you noticed the flame of colour to his cheeks. You giggled. “You’re blushing.”

“Forget I said anything.”

You humour dissipated and you continued to stare at him. “Jaebum, I’ve seen you too, you know.”

“Seen me?”

“At work. Watching out your window. When I’m taking a break or out cleaning off tables, I look for you too. Maybe we’re not so different after all. Sure, you have a stable career and I… well, I don’t know what I’ll be doing now. But I guess there’s a reason you offered me this ride, much like I took it. And I don’t think that reason is different for either of us.”

A smile slowly curled up the corners of his lips and Jaebum nodded, finally glancing at you at a set of lights. His smile was overwhelming and you felt yourself mirroring the gesture back again, unable to pull your eyes off of him.

And then someone tooted from behind.

“Oh, uh well,” he muttered, driving off as soon as he checked it was clear to do so and then cleared his throat. “I wasn’t going to just let you stand out in the cold.”

“What’s your favourite colour?”

“Black or white, why?”

You smiled again. “Didn’t you want to get to know me more?”

Jaebum nodded and relaxed. “We have this entire drive to get to know each other more, right?”

“Just this car ride? I was hoping there would be more opportunities,” you admitted and he grinned.

“It’s not like I’m going to sell my car anytime, Y/N. We could take as many drives as it takes.”

_________________

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daemour · 4 years ago

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I am excited and proud to announce The Ghibi Collab masterlist! 8 different authors (all very talented) have joined me on this quest to write a story based of the beautiful works of Studio Ghibli.

Without further ado, let’s move on to the masterlist!

@moccahobi

Title: Herding Raccoons

Genre: Fluff, Angst, S2L, Shifter AU

Pairing: Mark x Reader

Fandom: Got7

Movie: Pom Poko

Warnings: mentions of animal abuse

Summary: Years after the raccoons initially joined the human society, many raccoons lead human lives. Their tired composure common in the ever moving society. Y/n, a shy and hard working raccoon working as a research assistant to fund her way though college, finds herself face to face with a inexperienced and scared raccoon desperate for time as a raccoon. Can she help him?

@btsmosphere

Title: Breathe Again

Genre: fluff, tiny bit of angst, childhood friends to lovers

Pairing: taehyung x reader

Fandom: bts

Movie: my neighbour totoro

Warnings: mentions of burnout and depression

Summary: everything in your world has changed. everything, that is, except the boy who still believes in the spirits of the forest.

@dontbekoifish

Title: The Sky Prince

Genre: Angst

Pairing: Muska!Jinyoung x f!Reader, Duffi!Jaebeom x f!Reader

Fandom: GOT7

Movie: Laputa: Castle in the Sky

Warnings: Bullying, mentions of death, death, violence

Summary: Maybe Jinyoung was a little mean to you, but you think it gives him personality. You kind of like it. But he leaves you all alone.

@ssssssul

Title: Waltzing Sea

Genre: angst, best friends to lovers

Pairing: Ponyo x Sosuke

Fandom: Ponyo

Movie: Ponyo

Warnings: sadness?

Summary: It has been thirteen years since Ponyo decided to become human and live on the surface with her beloved Sosuke. Now that time has passed, she wonders what is different about her feelings towards him, while facing the consequences of giving up her magic.

@namjin-fangirling-again

Title: made by magic, delivered by broom

Pairing: seokjin x reader x namjoon

Fandom: bts

Movie: kiki's delivery service

Warnings: angst, weird spells, smut, wayyy too much fluff

Summary: She was told to find her passion through whatever means. Well, she did-in love and in delivering herbs. However, when the two men she's enticed start to grow jealous, strange things start to happen around her.

@toikiii

Title: Remember You

Genre: Angst, Fluff, Light smut

Pairing: Yugyeom x Reader x BamBam

Fandom: GOT7

Movie: Only Yesterday

Warnings: Bullying, minor sexual harrassment

Summary: Life is mundane. When you and your boyfriend drop everything and move to the countryside in an attempt to start over, you struggle with finding a balance between country life and city life, as well as coming to terms with your own feelings and memories.

@ddaechwita

Title: Home Is Where You Are

Genre: f2l, fluff, angst, university!AU, smut

Pairing: Wooyoung x Reader

Fandom: Ateez

Movie: Whisper of the Heart

Warnings: slight heartbreak (but it gets better) and some sadness but that's it

Summary: You're in your second year of university, still young and wide-eyed, when your life seems to flip completely upside down. First you start to develop feelings for your best friend, a guy you've known your entire life, just for him to confess to you that he's planning to move to the other side of the country to become a singer, and then you realise that the life you've been living isn't the one you want, but the one your parents had forced you into. With the one person who had always kept you sane gone, how are you supposed to know what to do next, if not follow him into the big city and live your dream there?

Updated September 15, 2022

With every update, this post will be reblogged

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hobeemin · 4 years ago

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Eros et Psyche - Part 2: Eros

💘 Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Adventure, Drama, s2l, Greek God myth AU

💘 Pairing: Im Jaebeom x (f) OC

💘 Rating: 18+

💘 Warning(s): swearing, alcohol consumption, doubt, feelings of uncertainty, oral (f. receiving), consensual sex, unprotected sex, breast and nipple play, multiple orgasms, jealousy

💘 Word Count: 9.5k

💘 Credits: Beta read by the marvelous @yoongsgguktae 💜 ily sis thank you

💘 Summary: A modern take on the Greek myth of Eros and Psyche.

💘 A/N: Part of The Intimacy Anthology Project hosted by @peonybane found here

<��💘 >

He did take it seriously.

Psyche sat motionless in the back of the town car as it drove her up the hill overlooking their town. After the tears, screams, and threats over the past few weeks, she finally agreed to this absurd agreement. The hill the matchmaker instructed her to be at was near one of the larger forests outside of town. Her father informed her she’d be making the journey alone. Again another round of arguments erupted, but he was stubborn. She would have to go by herself and that was the final decision.

Psyche felt highly emotional while saying her goodbyes to her father and sisters. Not knowing what the future held was frightening. From a person so used to order and schedules, this was a foreign idea. Still, she put on a neutral look and bid them all farewell with hugs and well wishes.

The car began to slow down as it approached the area. Psyche’s heartbeat hammered loud in her chest. She chewed on her bottom lip as the driver parked and opened her door for her. With a quiet thank you, she stepped out and walked over to the edge of the road. The most unusual thing about this was that she was told not to bring anything with her, no clothes, toiletries, anything.

“Everything will be provided for you.”

That didn’t settle her mind. She clutched the coat around her arms as the temperature dropped slightly. Luckily, she opted for a longer dress rather than the short Michael Kors number Jessica kept pushing her to wear.

“This isn’t a celebration. I’m grieving,” she had said.

Psyche looked around as she heard the engine die off as it turned the corner and went back down the winding path. Now she was alone. Glancing up at the sky, the clouds had blocked the view of the moon. Supposedly tonight was to be the “Rose” moon. She scoffed looking around for a place to sit. If she was being pranked, it was better for her to sit down.

A small rock big enough for her to use as a seat caught her eye. She plopped down and waited, not even a phone to use to pass the boredom. It was part of another strange request. No electronics. So she was officially alone. Then again it might have been a good thing. The young model usually avoided all social media about her, and rarely saw pictures of herself. Besides the few covers her father would save, Psyche never liked to see herself in pictures.

She hummed to herself, kicking at the pebbles by her feet. Her breath came out in cold wisps as she sighed out loud.

“This seriously has to be a joke,” she muttered to no one. “All this mystery. I bet no one will show. I’ll look silly and someone gets a free laugh. I think–”

She looked up in surprise as the moon peeked behind the clouds, a halo of pink adored its rim. She stared in wonder as the sounds of clomping came off in the distance. Her eyes widened as a team of horses pulling a pure white carriage rounded the bend towards her. The ebony sheen of their coats contrasted with the white. Her jaw dropped as it came more into view. The horses kicked at the dirt whipping their manes around. She stood up from the rock and stepped forward in shock. No one was pulling the carriage. She bent down to look under to see if it was motorized.

Nothing.

She straightened back up and gave the horse a stare.

“Am I supposed to drive you or–”

The door to the carriage swung open slowly as steps folded down. She raised her brow at the steps then back at the horses.

“You don’t expect me to get in, do you?”

The horses snorted, bobbing their heads up and down. Psyche mumbled as she stepped toward the open door of the carriage. “You’re not much help,” she taunted. The horse reared its legs grunting. “Alright, alright, I’ll get in. No need to get nasty,” she sighed climbing in.

The steps retracted and the door closed once she settled in. The carriage lurched forward as the horses began a steady trot down a path leading into the forest. The shades were drawn and even when she pulled them back, the windows were blackened with tint making it difficult for her to see outside of where she was going. By the way the carriage jerked, she could tell the path had changed drastically. She bounced in her seat as she continued the journey.

After what seemed like hours, the carriage halted making her fall forward. Psyche squeaked as she was shaken in the carriage. The door swung open once more as the steps unfolded. She peeked outside the carriage curiously.

If she had been surprised before, her expression was even more in awe. The large architectural home was a blend of rustic and modern. Large glass windows set in dark mahogany wood. A lake painted the background making the home look almost ethereal as the fog from the lake swirled around. The moonlight added to the view taking her breath away almost.

Who could live here?

She stepped out tentatively glancing around the entrance. Suddenly a group of people exited from the home and walked towards her. She stepped back near the carriage. Once they'd gotten closer, she noticed the group consisted of two women and one man. Each wore a mask that covered their face except their mouths. They bowed as soon as they reached her. The man stepped forward, dark hair upon his crown.

“Welcome Madam to Locus Manor. We are the loyal staff to your new husband. I am Anteros,” he explained, stepping back.

The closest woman to her curtsied low, strawberry blonde hair shimmering past her shoulders. “I am Harmonia, Madam, our Master gave strict instructions for us to take care of you,” she brought out a note wrapped in ribbon and held it out for her, “Please read.”

Psyche, still bewildered, took the note in her trembling hands and untied the ribbon. She glanced over the handwriting.

“To my dear Psyche, unfortunately, I cannot be here to greet you on the day of your arrival. The staff has explicit instructions to make sure your time here is comfortable. Clothes have been laid out and a meal prepared. Enjoy my love.

Always and forever,

J”

She looked up at them with a frown. “So he’s even not here to see me. What do you expect me to do?”

Another woman stepped forward with another curtsy, dark hair styled in a short bob. “Pleased to meet you, Madam. I am Adrestia, we shall get you cleaned up and ready for dinner.” She gestured towards the front doors. “If you’ll follow me.”

She felt frustrated that no one was listening to her. It was all so confusing. This mystery man “j” wasn't even there and she was to trust these people. What did he do? Why all the mystery and smoke and mirrors? For now, she’d play by their rules until she knew what was in store for her.

If the exterior surprised her, then the interior was beyond anything she’d ever imagined. They gave her a tour of the place pointing out the details. The color scheme was white with bursts of red and silver. The fronts doors led into a large open space that was considered the living room. Plush couches encircled a large fireplace. Off to the side behind double doors was the dining room. A large rectangular table sat in the middle surrounded by plush chairs. On the opposite side, a winding staircase led up to the higher floor. A concealed door opened to reveal the large kitchen decked with the latest appliances surrounding a marble island.

Harmonica took her upstairs to the master bedroom. The large king-size bed took up much of the room, it had a canopy overhead draped with silk. The maid gestured to the sliding glass doors.

“That leads to the balcony. In the morning it gives the perfect view of the lake.”

Psyche nodded seeing something catch her eye. A dress was laid out on the bed. She ran her fingers over the material gently. It was certainly more expensive than she was used to wearing.

“Ah,” Harmonica said, beginning to walk over to a large door. “This is your walk-in closet. It has everything you need.”

Psyche’s jaw dropped as she entered the closet. Racks of dresses, shirts, pants, shoes, and accessories covered the walls. “How did he know my size?”

The maid chuckled. “Master has his ways of knowing.” She stepped out of the closet beckoning Psyche to follow her. “Let's get you freshened up for dinner.”

After soaking in the large clawfoot tub, Psyche made her way down to the dining as they set the table for her. They bowed as one pulled a chair out for her to sit. They poured her wine, serving her the salad first. The two maids stood off to the side.

Psyche took small bites, chewing slowly. “Um, during the tour, I noticed a room upstairs we didn’t go into,” she wiped her mouth with a napkin staring at them. “What’s in there?”

The air suddenly grew tense as the maids gave each other a look. “Madam, we aren’t allowed in that room. It belongs to the Master.”

“Even you are forbidden from there. Please stay away,” Adrestia warned.

Psyche gave a small nod and continued her meal in silence. Everything was so strange. From the clothes fitting perfectly to her favorite dish being served. This so-called “j” was an enigma. How did he know so much about her in such a short period of time?

The dishes were cleared as Psyche let out a yawn. Anteros chuckled as he extinguished the candles around the room. “Time for bed Madam. You need your rest.”

Psyche smiled sleepily as she bid him goodnight and trudged up the stairs to her...well their bedroom. That was a silly thought. There was no more “her” only “them”, if she ever were to see him. She settled on a silk blush nightgown that tied in the back. She gave a small twirl in the mirror over her vanity.

“Not too bad.”

It was an upgrade from all the oversized shirts and shorts she wore normally. Pulling back the satin sheets, she propped the pillows up and took one from the other side of the bed to hold. With the fragrance of lavender lingering in the air, it didn’t take long for Psyche to drift off to sleep.

“Psyche. Psyche? Darling, wake up.”

Her eyes fluttered open as she looked around. She was in her bed still, the moonlight filtering in through the windows. It gave a hazy look as fog off the lake rolled in. She sat up with a start seeing a man standing at the foot of the bed. There seemed to be a glow surrounding him, making him look ethereal. Being in his presence seemed to calm her nerves as he stared at her. Dark hair framing his face, pulled back so she could see his features, sharp jawline, full lips, dark eyes that always seemed to be smiling.

She pulled her hair back off her face suddenly feeling shyness take over. “Who...who are you?”

“Anyone. It’s your dream love,” Jaebeom said with a grin. Decked in only a pair of white linen pants, low enough to bare his Adonis belt, Psyche felt lightheaded all of a sudden.

She licked her lips nervously averting her gaze. “I’m dreaming, huh.”

He chuckled with a nod. “Yes. Yes, you are.” He moved closer, sitting on the edge making sure to keep his distance. “No one can hurt you here. Least of all me.” Jaebeom’s eyes softened momentarily at the thought. “I could never wrong you, Psyche. Trust is all I ask.”

She gave a small nod as she mulled over the thought. She couldn’t feel any unusual vibes from him and something about him seemed so familiar, she just couldn’t place it.

What the heck was she thinking about so hard in a dream?

Psyche froze as she felt his fingers on her chin, tilting her face towards him.

He studied her face with a smirk. “What’s on your mind? You looked so serious all of a sudden.”

“I…” she began, meeting his eyes, entranced for a second before chuckling softly. “It’s silly and not very important,” she answered.

Jaebeom shook his head running his thumb against her cheek. “Don’t sell yourself short. You’re more important than you’ll ever know.”

Psyche leaned into his touch, the warmth from his hand radiating on her skin. It soothed her. She felt his breath against her lips as she instinctively leaned forward.

“Psyche–”

“Kiss me,” she whispered. Opening her eyes to look at him, she purred softly. “Please. There’s nothing else I want more.”

He gulped, feeling his heart hammer in his chest. Exhaling the breath he held, Jaebeom cupped her face moving closer. His nose nuzzling against her cheek as he trembled. “You never have to ask my love.”

Jaebeom began placing light butterfly kisses along her neck, shoulders, and collar. Psyche closed her eyes letting out a breathy moan. There was almost a calculation in his movements but still passionate. Jaebeom wanted to make her feel good and needed this for himself. It seemed like an eternity had gone by since he last saw her. He craved to be close. Moving his lips to her throat, his teeth grazed her pulse points causing her to gasp out. Psyche didn’t know what to do with her hands, eventually resting them on his shoulders. Nails digging into his flesh as he worshipped her body.

He was teasing her, never actually meeting her lips. Jaebeom took his time, relishing in the moment of just being with her. Her moans only heightened his desire for her. The growing warmth that surrounded him couldn't be sated. He opened his eyes meeting her gaze. A dull moan passed his lips before his tongue dragged against her bottom lip. The motion made Psyche jump, warming her core.

So erotic in nature, his eyes were full of lust. She pressed her body against his needing to be close. He gladly obliged, finally placing a kiss on her lips. So light it almost didn’t feel like it was there. But he was testing the waters, making sure each move was approved by her. Seeing that she was okay, Jaebeom pressed his lips firmly on hers. Psyche melted into the kiss as it grew heavy. His lips danced with her, one hand venturing to wrap around her waist touching the small on her back and the other cupping her cheek.

His tongue grew impatient pushing against her mouth wanting a taste. With the slightest hesitation, she opened her mouth partially as he delved in, devouring her. Psyche let out the lowest of whimpers, her body weight shifting, needing something to anchor her in place, wanting to release.

Jaebeom reluctantly pulled away as both their bodies demanded oxygen. Chest heaving, he leaned against her, chin propped on her head. He bent down leaving the gentlest of kisses on her forehead as he wrapped both his arms around her frame. Psyche took this time to consider the possibilities of this dream. It felt so real. His lips, his hands, every touch on her body felt like fire.

Jaebeom noticed how quiet she was and moved to pull her chin to stare at him. He checked her eyes carefully. “Still with me?”

Psyche’s lips spread into a smile as she nodded. “Yes.”

He smiled back giving her a quick peck on the lips. “Good.” Once said, the desire in his eyes returned as he raked over her body. The nightgown did little to cover her modesty. Her nipples strained against the fabric, stiff. His Adam’s apple jumped at the sight. His fingers traveled up her arm caressing her skin as he went until he reached her shoulder. Maintaining eye contact, his fingers slid under the straps of her nightgown and tugged. Psyche let out a soft gasp as the air made contact with her nipples. Already erect, it became almost painful. She whimpered looking at him with pleading eyes.

Jaebeom reached out as his hand and cupped her breast, running his thumb across the peak. Psyche hissed as she tilted her head back exposing her neck. He wet his lips as he watched her movements, switching from the light to firm touches, pinching her nipples, tugging and rolling them between her fingers. Psyche gripped his bicep so she wouldn’t fall backward. He took his time, torturing her with the pleasure and pain alternating. He bent down placing light kisses on her neck to calm her.

“Lie down,” he instructed in between kisses. Psyche obeyed as she fell back against the pillows. He tugged at the hem of her nightgown pulling it down her body. She lifted her hips up helping him to remove it easily. Once off, he threw it aside leaving her only in what looked like lace panties. Jaebeom stirred gazing at her longingly.

“You’re beautiful,” he said in a hushed tone.

Psyche closed her eyes as her cheeks tinted with pink. Embarrassed by his words, she couldn't look at him. He bent forward caging her between his arms hovering over her breasts, quite enamored by the shape and dips. His breath warm on her skin caused goosebumps to form. Lips parted, his tongue dragged across one of the stiff peaks before suckling on it gently. His tongue swirled around, a hum on his lips making the vibration wrack her body.

Psyche let out a needy moan, squirming underneath him, her nails massaged his scalp, afraid he’d disappear if she couldn’t maintain body contact. Clenching her thighs together, she felt the throb, a sensation she hadn’t felt in so long. He barely touched her and by now she knew her arousal had soaked through her panties. Jaebeom switched between her breasts, groping the other as he gave equal attention, darting his tongue up to lap at it.

His eyes scanned her reactions, quite pleased with it. The sounds she made only made him want her more. All he could think about was pleasing her, worshipping the woman before him. Plucking his lips from her breasts with a soft pop, his eyes now blown out with lust, he glanced downward at her womanhood. Psyche’s legs parted instinctively as he stared. A guttural moan passed his lips as he noticed the damp spot on her panties.

“May I–” his voice now rasped, “have a taste?”

She shivered all over giving him an incline of her head. Jaebeom let out a hitched breath as he jerked her lingerie off carelessly tossing them across the bed. The fragrant smell of her cunt sent him into a stupor. He grabbed a stray pillow, positioning it in under her head to support her neck.

“Comfortable?” he asked once she was settled.

“Very, but–” Psyche bit down on her lip. “You never told me what your name was.”

Jaebeom winked, tracing his fingers on her thighs. “Psyche, I’m whatever you want me to be,” he crooned, crawling down to the end of the bed until he was eye level with her mound. “Right now, I am a man in desperate need to show you what it feels like to be worshipped.” He passed a chaste kiss on her thigh as a helpless whimper passed her lips. “Can I do that for you, Psyche?”

The back of her fingers brushed his cheek. The look in her eyes was enough to get the message across. Jaebeom hooked his arms underneath her thighs trailing kisses towards the treasure that awaited him. He pressed his hand against her mound gently pulling her pussy lips apart. The strings of arousal dripped down coating her thighs. Psyche wiggled in his grasp, anxious as he stared at her cunt. His tongue found her clit easily as he finally tasted her.

And what a feast it was. Head buried between her thighs he devoured her with no hesitation, tongue lapping at her relentlessly. Psyche’s fingers gripped at his dark hair, anchoring him in place. Jaebeom wouldn’t have moved even if he tried. His only focus was her. A finger joined his tongue, coaxing out more of her melodious sounds that rang out in the bedroom. Sweat rolled down her body as her hips bucked forward chasing the high. Her core gripped his fingers as her body readied for an orgasm. Her pants and moans grew louder as she raised up her hips, teeth-gritting as a sudden wave crashed over her. She sought his free hand, gripping it tightly.

“M-My Eros,” she shrieked, eyes shut as she rutted her hips against his face. The orgasm rocked through her body making her convulse.

Jaebeom stopped dead as he drew away from her pussy, lips coated and glazed with the traces of her desire. “What did you say?”

Psyche’s lids flickered open as their eyes connected. Flushed, she looked away. Still shivering from the sheer force of her climax. Her chest heaved as she tried to keep her movements still from oversensitivity.

“It was the first thing that came to my mind,” she whispered out between catching her breath.

Jaebeom groaned, staring at her with eyes full of devotion. “Call me that.” He detached himself unwillingly from her thighs and sat up. Psyche was already in a haze from the pleasure, she could barely move an inch. He laid next to her, brushing the hair off her face. Soft words of praise lingered on his lips as he held her. Psyche rested her head against his chest letting his heartbeat soothe her.

Once she was able to regain some strength, Psyche moved her fingers to interlock with his. Jaebeom pressed his lips to her hands with a soft smile. “Tired yet?”

Psyche shivered against him with a nod. “I-I need you E-Eros. More than anything right now.” Her body began reacting to being so close to his. Jaebeom grunted low, eyes cast down at her nude form. He kissed her again before getting off the bed. Psyche noticed the strain of his erection against his pants. A clear patch already forming from the precum that leaked.

Jaebeom untied the strings from his pants plucking the waistband from around his hips. His cock springing from its confines as he let out a low hiss, relieved from the pressure. Psyche gulped at his size. He was lengthy, the shaft wide but not extremely girthy, veins punctuating down his length, the head swollen with tinges of red–the precum glossing the slit.

He fisted his shaft, pumping his erection without much effort as he watched her lay outstretched across the mattress. He grabbed her legs and swung them over the edge of the bed, parting them as he stood between them. He caressed her cheek bending forward and lined himself against her entrance. While he wanted to take things slow, Jaebeom fought the urge to plunge deep inside her. Breathing hard through his nose, he met her gaze.

“Psyche,” he moaned faintly. “Are you ready?”

She writhed against him entangling her legs around his waist from her position. “just do it Eros, please...no more teasing,” she begged.

Jaebeom closed his eyes momentarily before glancing at her. One hand on her hip and the other guiding himself in. She tensed at the pressure and Jaebeom began messaging her sides.

“It’s okay. Relax. I won’t do more until you're ready love.”

“N-No,” she breathed, giving him a purr. “K-Keep going. I’m alright.”

He smiled, kissing her once more as he pushed inch by inch of his length past her folds, surging from the sensation of how her walls clung to his shaft. He took his time, whispering words of care as she grew accustomed to him until he bottomed out. Jaebeom stilled as he leaned forward nuzzling against her cheek.

She wrapped her arms around him whimpering at his size. Psyche was grateful he remained still as she relaxed against him. She let out an airy plea as he planted kisses on her neck. Her nails dug into his back, squirming under him.

“E-Eros, do it,” she cried. “Move, now.”

Jaebeom suckled a spot on her neck groaning with each squirm. He raised his hips as he pulled out until only the tip remained and plunged in deep.

It knocked the wind from her chest. She felt so full. Shuddering as her eyes rolled back. He thrust deep but slow, rotating his hips as they connected. Psyche locked her ankles, gripping him tighter against her body. He was deep and she could feel him brush her cervix. He kissed the tears away off her cheeks as they pooled down.

Raking his hand through her hair his eyes softened. “I love you,” he croaked out, focusing on his pace.

Through teary eyes, she sobbed, “I love you too.”

She grabbed the back of his head crashing her lips against him. “Ravish me.”

Jaebeom didn’t need any convincing. His tongue wrapped around hers tasting the caverns of her mouth as he picked up speed. Bracing himself against the mattress he delved deeper, snapping his hips against hers. Grunts spewing forth as he gripped her hips anchoring himself in place. Psyche grabbed the duvet, holding on as she cried out, his balls slapping hard against her ass.

Only the sounds of their lovemaking ringing out in the quiet of the room.

“I-I’m close love,” he stammered, slowing down until he just grinded his hips. Psyche dragged her nails down his back making him wince. He suddenly rolled over until he was on his back with Psyche straddling him. She paused adjusting to the new position on top of him. He cupped her breast squeezing around the glob of flesh.

“I want to watch you climax,” he groaned.

Psyche could feel her body aching to release. She placed her hands palms down on his chest as she started to bounce on top of his dick. She hissed each time she came down on him, moaning out, frustrated with the need to cum. Jaebeom wrapped his arms around her waist helping her move, wanting to feel her, be joined with her. The knot in her abdomen loosened as she quivered above him. Through gritted teeth, Jaebeom knew he wouldn’t last long.

“F-Fuck Psyche. Cum for me, love.”

He teased her clit, flicking against it for added sensation. That was the last straw. Psyche threw her head back as her mouth opened but no sound came out. The silent shriek racked her body as she convulsed on him. Her cunt gripped him like a vice. Jaebeom sat up holding on to her so she wouldn’t fall over. He switched their positions once more as he chased his own orgasm through hers, not too far along as he thrust. She held onto him, her teeth biting his shoulder as another orgasm shook through her body once he came. Jaebeom hissed out her name as he painted her walls, freezing over her until his thrusts came to a stop.

With care, he shifted until he was on his side holding her close. Both breathing hard, not wanting to make any sudden moves. He gazed down at her, kissing her temple as he brushed the damp hair from her face.

“You look even more beautiful.”

Psyche blushed looking away and she swatted his hand away playfully. “Beautiful? More like sweaty and disheveled.”

He clasped her chin, lifting it up, pecking her lips. “Yes, the most gorgeous creature I've ever laid eyes on. And all mine.” He reached under the pillow and brought out a small box. With some effort, he opened it to reveal two rings. One fashioned in diamonds and garnet stones and the other wrapped in silver with diamonds and garnets in the middle. He beamed sliding the jewelry onto her left ring finger.

“Forever mine,” he purred. He placed the matching ring in her hand as she slipped it onto him. “Forever yours,” she echoed staring at him.

Her cheeks flushed and her stomach fluttered as he kissed her once more. All his. She couldn't help but wonder about the mystery j. This wasn’t really cheating. It was only a dream after all.

Nuzzling against him, she interlocked her fingers with his as she drifted off to sleep content by the gentle strokes of his fingers on her back.

^^^

The sounds of the birds chirping stirred Psyche from her sleep. She murmured as her body became alert as she began to wake. Covering her eyes from the sunshine washing over the room, she could make out to see Harmonica opening the doors to the balcony.

She turned giving a curtsy. “Good morning Madam. How did you sleep?”

Psyche wiggled under the comforter with a sleepy smile. “I slept...well better than I have in ages,” she answered sitting up.

The maid turned away with a giggle. “Oh, Madam, there’s a robe by your bed for you to use.”

Psyche chuckled. “Nonsense, I–” she looked down to see that she was nude. With a squeal, she covered herself up blushing profusely. “Oh! I–”

How did her clothes get removed? Harmonia rushed to put out her outfit and ran to the door. “Breakfast will be ready by the time you freshen up. just call me if you need anything!”

Psyche watched as she practically ran off. Shaking her head in disbelief, she wiggled into the silk robe and went into the bathroom. Further inspection showed she had hickeys littered over her skin. She froze bringing her hand up to her face. The ring.

She jumped back as she removed it and placed it on the sink.

What had happened that night before? She combed her mind for any details, only concluding that it must have been one hell of a dream.

But it felt so real. His hands, lips, everything about it. She mumbled to herself turning the showerhead on. Dreams weren’t real. It was silly to think otherwise. Yet, as she stepped out of the robe and into the shower letting the water cascade down her frame, nothing about this place seemed ‘normal’.

Psyche washed quickly and put on the outfit laid out for her: dark denim jeans and a white tank with a loose black duster. She walked down the stairs just as they finished setting the table for her. The staff greeted her as she took a seat, being served from the numerous dishes on the tables.

All for her. It was quite a change of scenery having been used to seeing her family surrounding the table. She smiled to herself thinking of all the breakfasts her father would cook for them. Her sisters bickering over the fruit. She missed the chaos, regardless if it drove her crazy. They were still her family. A twinge in her heart made her tear up.

Clearing her throat, Psyche settled on a bowl of fruit and toast with a glass of orange juice. Nibbling on a corner of the toast—slathered in butter and strawberry jam—she looked around the place now that it was light out. Still as beautiful as ever. The sunlight seemed to make the place glow. The metal finishing almost looked like molten gold.

Anteros came in with a package, bringing her from her thoughts. "For you Madam, from the Master,” he explained holding a note for her to take.

Psyche thanked him for opening the note to read over the writing.

“Good morning my dear wife. Again, I regret not being able to be in your presence. Here is a gift for you, something for you to capture the beauty of what life has to offer.”

Psyche unwrapped the gift to reveal one of the latest digital camera models. She smiled to herself holding it with care. She glanced at the butler in surprise. “How did he know I liked to photograph?”

“Master has his ways,” he said airily. “Enjoy your day.” Psyche ran her fingers over the camera looking out at the lake.

After breakfast, she walked outside, camera in one hand as she explored the property. They were right, the lake looked absolutely stunning in the early morning fog. She was thankful for the duster as it kept off the chill.

The only sounds were the wildlife flitting about. With amusement she watched a family of rabbits hop around the meadow nibbling at clover. She snapped a quick picture as they paused, noses wiggling under the grass.

Psyche ventured towards a gazebo near the lake. She plopped down on one of the benches sniffing the flowers that decorated the rails. Bursts of reds, yellows, oranges, and purples of the daylilies came alive on her camera screen. Just as she clicked the button, a hummingbird appeared in the viewfinder searching for nectar. It was truly a sight to see.

Everything seemed so calm by the lake. Content by the buzz in the air, her eyelids grew heavy as she fell asleep drooping against the rail.

^^^

Who knew how much time passed as one of the maids came upon her sleeping and roused her awake gently.

“Madam?”

Psyche yawned as she stretched her limbs. With blurry vision, she squinted at Adrestia rubbing her eyes. “W-What time is it?”

“Half-past noon,” she answered, helping her up.

Psyche stood more a moment getting her bearings. “That long?”

“Yes, it's time for lunch. Let’s get you some tea. It’s chilly out here by the water. You’ll catch a cold.” Adrestia fussed at Psyche leading her back inside. She sat back down at the dining room table as they made her some herbal tea to sip on while lunch was being fixed.

The chamomile tea warmed her to the bones as she rested against the arm of the chair. Psyche shivered in her seat. Maybe being out there that long wasn’t the smartest idea. Anteros served a bowl of vegetable soup, placing it in front of her.

“Enjoy Madam.”

Psyche gave him a smile of reassurance as she sipped the broth. She sniffed between swallows as fatigue set in. With a groan, she pushed the soup aside, too exhausted to eat. Harmonia entered to check on her, tsking as she felt Psyche’s forehead.

“You’re running warm Madam. Let’s get you upstairs to rest.”

Anteros assisted with helping her up the stairs and getting her into bed. Psyched sighed into the mattress as it enveloped her. She cuddled further under the blankets as they made sure she was comfortable. “We’ll come check on you later Madam to see if you are better.”

Psyche nodded off to sleep just as the lights dimmed.

The afternoon slowly changed to dusk and her temperature only worsened. Psyche's body shivered all over as she was drenched in sweat. Muttering in a fitful sleep, she whimpered. Nothing seemed to break her fever and the staff worried about what their Master would do if they knew she was like this.

Jaebeom appeared as the sun set, worried about her state. His staff had sent word to him about Psyche and he rushed home to help care for her. He placed a cold compress on her forehead as he held her hand, his thumb rubbing soothing circles on her skin. Fear crossed his face. She looked troubled in her sleep. What could he do? Hopefully, Jackson received his correspondence. Only he would know what to do.

Psyche whimpered in her sleep, “Papi, come back, please...sisters…I...I miss you.”

Jaebeom frowned as the realization sunk in. She missed her family. He felt selfish keeping her away from them, but they’d never be able to come here. For their safety and hers. It would be dangerous. He shuddered to think what his mother would do if she found this is where he hid her away. He noticed the absence of her ring and scowled. Adrestia entered with more cold water in a basin and Jaebeom turned to glare at her.

“Where’s her ring?”

She pulled it from her pocket and tossed it to him with a look of annoyance. “She left it by the sink in the bathroom.”

He mumbled, ignoring her, and slipped it back on Psyche’s finger. “Why’d she take it off?” he asked rhetorically.

“Don’t be daft brother. You know the answer,” she huffed, setting the basin down on the dresser. “Jackson just arrived. Shall I bring him up?”

“Uh-huh,” he said, more to himself.

Adrestia sighed, exiting the bedroom. Moments later Jackson glanced over at Jaebeom. He shook his head stepping closer. “I got your note,” he began. “What’s wrong? I was in the middle of something.”

Jaebeom turned, looking stricken with grief. “She’s ill and her fever won’t break.”

Jackson frowned stepping closer. “Get up,” he ordered as Jaebeom stood but kept a hold of her hand. Jackson closed his eyes and swept his hand across her body. Furrowing his brow he looked over at Jaebeom with a crooked grin. “She’ll be fine. It's just a rough bout of the flu.” He flicked his hand as a pouch appeared. “Place the powder in a drink. She’ll sweat it out over the next few days.”

Jaebeom sighed deeply, taking the pouch. “Thanks, Jackson.”

The God of the Sun smiled, clapping a hand on his shoulder. Giving him a once over, the frown settled back on his face. “What else is troubling you?”

Jaebeom nibbled his bottom lip detaching his hand from her as he began to pace. “She’s lonely. She calls for her family in her sleep. But I can’t have them here. Too much exposure would bring attention to my mother.” He stopped combing through his hair. “What should I do?”

Jackson exhaled heavily. “I think you should consider what will make her happy the most. I don’t think one visit would cause harm. just set precautions to be sure.” He smirked with a shrug. “It will put her at ease.”

Jaebeom nodded as he watched Psyche sleep. His fingers lingered on her cheek with a sigh, resolution crossed his as he settled into the decision. After a moment he gave a hum. “Alright, thanks I appreciate the medicine and advice.”

“Sure thing. Good luck,” Jackson waved as he shimmered away.

Adrestia peeked her head in once Jaebeom was alone once more. “Everything alright?”

Jaebeom held up the pouch. “Mix this with some tea,” he ordered, eyes back on Psyche.

She took the pouch, walking out the door once more. “Be back soon.”

It didn’t take long for her to return with a steaming cup of tea. Propping her up, Jaebeom held Psyche, tilting the cup towards her lips. “Psyche, drink.”

Through her deliria, Psyche’s lips parted as the warm liquid slid down, coating her throat. Her body tingled as the medicine worked its way through her system. She coughed suddenly, groaning in her semi-conscious state. It didn’t take long for her to fall back to sleep. As Jaebeom combed his fingers through her hair, she let out a content sigh snuggling against his hand.

He stayed like that with her the remainder of the night and into the coming days. After a few days, her fever broke and he knew he wouldn't be able to be near her once she woke. As dawn approached on the third day, Jaebeom sat up begrudgingly leaving her side. He could make out the early morning ray’s peak from behind the trees. The sunlight filtering into the room made almost a halo glow around her. He couldn’t believe how breathtaking she looked. Knowing time grew short, he kissed the back of her hand just as he disappeared from the room.

Psyche rolled onto her side frowning as the space beside her was now empty. She grew more alert moving her hand to the spot noting the warmth still there. Her eyes finally opened as she realized she was alone once again. Sadness crossed her face recalling the sweet dreams of her Eros.

Harmonica entered after a soft knock and smiled warmly at her. “It’s lovely to see you up, Madam. How do you feel?”

Psyche sighed, rubbing her eyes of sleep, and propped herself against the pillows. “Better than I did a few days ago.”

Harmonia walked over to pull the curtains aside. “Would you like to take your breakfast in bed or downstairs?”

“Up here is fine,” Psyche answered, still occupied in her thoughts.

It wasn't until the three staff members served her breakfast that she decided to go with her plan. They must have known who slept beside her the past few nights. Seen him even. This J still hadn’t made an appearance and she was getting restless in the house being alone.

As Anteros poured her tea, she met his gaze. “Where is my ‘husband’? Have you seen him around? Surely he doesn’t think I should be alone here.

They gave each other knowing looks. “The Master has–”

“Yes! You’ve said it before. He has his reasons,” she snapped back. Taking a few breaths, Psyche gave them an apologetic look. “I-I’m sorry. I just miss my family.” She pushed away the tray getting out of bed and went out to the balcony closing the door behind her.

Adrestia scowled removing the tray as she cut her eyes to her siblings. They left Psyche upstairs as they went back into the kitchen. “He needs to figure something out. It’s getting exhausting lying to her every single day.”

Harmonia shook her head as she cleaned the dishes. “She’s not going to stop asking questions. We have to figure something out.”

Anteros slammed the cabinet close as he rounded on his sisters. “We don’t have to figure anything out. That’s his shit to sort. We’ll only add to the problem.” His shoulder slumped as he leaned against the counter. “Besides, if he loves her so much, he’ll find a way.”

“Excuse me,” Psyche said, entering the kitchen. They all jumped, faces paled at her arrival. Once she’d been able to calm, she thought of a way to contact J. Maybe this would help her get to understand him.

She gripped the paper in her hand and set it on the counter. “I-I wrote him a letter. Maybe he’ll understand how I’m feeling after reading it.”

Psyche bit her lip shuffling her feet on the floor. “Can you please give it to him?” She fiddled with the ring on her hand as she looked down.

Anteros let a grin spread across his face as he bowed. “Yes, Madam. We’ll be sure the Master gets it.”

“Thank you,” she replied, giving them each a nod and left to go back upstairs.

Harmonia sighed in relief looking at them. “You think she heard any of it?”

Adrestia shrugged. “If she did, she’s got a good poker face.”

^^^

Another day passing into night. Psyche spent the day walking the trail around the lake. The fresh air was a godsend after being inside the house the last few days. Hopefully, he received her message. Once dinner finished–solo as usual–she readied for bed soaking in the bathtub and changed into another set of pajamas, a pair of silk shorts, and a tank top.

She would have been lying if she wasn’t looking forward to seeing him in her dreams again. He’d become something of a confidante, a lover even. She felt a pang in her chest as she closed her eyes. Only her dreams weren’t real life.

But he returned whispering promises of love and devotion.

She felt his hands wrap around her middle, pulling her close, her back pressed against his chest. His lips easily finding her shoulder trailing butterfly kisses. Psyche sighed into touch, eyes still shut.

“Another round? I don’t think I have the strength,” she giggled.

Jaebeom smirked against her skin, tickling her stomach gently. “I’m insatiable,” he teased, cuddling closer. “I’ll let you rest for now.”

Psyche opened her eyes as she felt his breathing slow. She shifted causing Jaebeom to rouse from his nap. Frowning, he sat up leaning over to see her expression. “Love, what’s wrong?”

Psyche exhaled avoiding his gaze but he wouldn’t let up until she stared back. “I-I just feel so lonely here.”

Jaebeom’s heart sank. He pulled away to run a hand through his hair. He had gotten her note earlier in the day, Anteros made sure of that. Psyche poured her heart into the note, expressing her unhappiness about being by herself. How she truly missed being around her family. Though he couldn’t tell her he knew about her letter.

“Why do you feel lonely, Psyche?”

She rotated to look at him fully. “I-I cherish our time together, but it's only confined to this–my mind. I sit around wishing for someone, who still hasn’t appeared before me.” Tears welled in her eyes as they trickled down. Jaebeom used his thumb to wipe them away.

“What do you want? Truly?”

Psyche sniffed as she leaned into his touch. “I want to see my family again,” she let out a teary laugh shaking her head, “They drive me absolutely mad, but I still love them despite what they do.”

He kissed her lips and sighed pulling her into his lap. Psyche rested her head on his shoulder as he rocked her to sleep. Her eyes dropped snuggled close to him. When her breathing deepened and Jaebeom was sure she wouldn’t wake, he placed her under the covers. As the sun began to rise, he gave a reluctant nod.

“Very well. If this is what will bring a smile to your face, I’ll grant your wish Psyche.”

He placed the note on her vanity before taking his leave. Something unsettled him. As if this was something he would regret. A darkness loomed over his face, but he only wanted Psyche to be happy. This would make things better.

How wrong he was.

^^^

Psyche busied herself straightening the living room, making sure fresh flowers replaced the older ones in the vases around the room. She felt a weight lifted from her chest. The previous morning she received a letter from J. In it, he granted her request for her to see her family. His stipulation:

“They can only visit for one day.”

One day seemed so short, but at least she would get to see them. She sent word out to her family inviting them out to the lake house. They were coming today, and if she was being honest, Psyche was nervous. She thought about what they would think of this arrangement. She pushed her concerns to the back of her mind as she checked on the lunch Harmonia was preparing all morning.

“Is everything almost ready?”

“Yes, Madam. The meat just needs to be grilled, but everything is ready,” she answered.

Psyche gave a reassuring smile as she willed herself not to pace across the floor. Her ears strained as the door opened.

Anteros entered giving a short bow. “They’ve arrived, Madam.”

Her heart thumped in anticipation just as Victoria and Jessica entered. The sisters shrieked running over to squeeze Psyche into a large group hug. Psyche stumbled back holding them gingerly. As they pulled away to give her air, her brows knotted in confusion. “Where’s father?”

Jessica scoffed, putting her hands on her hips. “That’s all you can say? It’s been almost a month and you only worry about father.”

Victoria patted Psyche’s hand warmly. “He wanted to be here, but he’s away on business overseas.”

“Oh,” Psyche hid her disappointment. As much as she cared for her sisters, she wanted to see her father. Call her a daddy’s girl, but she needed him here as well.

Jessica circled the room with genuine interest. “So this is where you've been. We didn’t know what to expect. After dad came home, we for sure thought you got kidnapped or sold.”

Victoria chuckled nervously. “How about a tour Psyche? I’m dying to see the lake.”

Psyche pressed her lips together as she glared at Jessica. Same old attitude. Bitter. She took Victoria’s hand tugging it to the patio deck. “Sure. Let me show you everything,” she looked over her shoulder at Jessica with a hum. “C’mon, I think you’ll like it too.”

And they did.

Envy swept across her sisters' faces as Psyche led them around the manor, pointing out all j had–from the latest appliances and equipment to the sheer vastness of the estate. Psyche finished the tour by the lake as they would be having lunch near the gazebo. Anteros manned the grill as Adrestia and Harmonia finished setting the table for them. Jessica sat as she held a wine glass up to be filled. Harmonia filled their glasses as the food was served. The staff disappeared giving the sisters alone time.

Victoria chatted happily, still impressed by the place Psyche now lived in. “Psyche, your home is beautiful,” she gushed.

Jessica huffed as she sipped her wine eyeing Psyche from the rim of her glass. “I’m curious though. When do we get to meet this mystery man?” She looked around with a frown. “How does he afford all this?”

Psyche choked on her wine giving them a nonchalant shrug. “I-I’m not too sure. We–” she mumbled while taking another sip.

Jessica leaned forward glaring. “What was that?”

Pink tinged Psyche’s cheek as she stared at the salad on her plate. “I haven’t met him yet.”

The oldest sister crossed her arms. “What do you mean you haven’t met him?” She gave her a stare, her voice dangerously low. “Psyche–”

Psyche glanced away biting her lip. “Er...not met per se, but I get notes from him every morning–”

Jessica hissed slamming her glass down as wine spilled on the table soaking the tablecloth. “How daft can you be Psyche? I was sure you were the most intelligent of us three, but you’re just as dumb as Victoria.”

“Hey!” Victoria shot Jessica a look and went over to comfort Psyche. She knelt down in front of her holding her hands. “Honey, do you know anything about him? It seems unusual you’ve yet to see him.”

Psyche felt her lip tremble as her throat tightened. “He’s been nothing but cordial and welcoming to me. Yes, I know it's a little odd we haven’t, but I don’t think he would do me any harm.”

Jessica fumed, still gesturing wildly to the home. “Don’t tell me you've been this disillusioned by the splendor. For all, you know he could be a killer, a psycho, old and creepy, or some sick joke!” Chest heaving, Jessica calmed as she gave Psyche a sticky sweet smile reaching across to hold her hand. Victoria sat up on the bench to hold their younger sister.

“We’re not doing this to be cruel, we only want what's best for you,” Jessica cooed.

Victoria pressed a kiss to the top of Psyche’s head, squeezing her gently. “We’re worried about you Psyche. just be careful, love.”

“What should I do?” she whispered trembling as Victoria smoothed her hair down.

Jessica sighed and got up to join her on the bench. She pulled something from her purse. Psyche looked taken aback as the silver gleamed in the sunlight. The knife had a beautiful ornate handle as small gems decorated the helm. The blade, while small, still looked deadly.

“Find out what he is hiding from you. Take this to protect yourself,” she instructed.

Psyche felt numb. Was she being naïve? Were they right about everything? How was she supposed to be married to someone she never laid eyes on. Without a sound, she took the blade, concealing it in her back pocket.

They finished lunch with Psyche remaining silent throughout. The sisters chatted adamantly to each other about the food and the skills of the staff, but it went on deaf ears. As they left, she hugged them each, wishing them a safe journey home as they loaded into their car. She waved them off as the car disappeared around the bend.

Psyche felt more lonely now than ever, a heavyweight on her chest and dark clouds looming over her head. The knife still in her back pocket, she couldn’t help but feel saddened. She rested against the front door till in her thoughts.

Harmonia poked her head out of the kitchen, giving her a smile. “Enjoy your sisters' visit?”

Psyche bobbed her head practically running for the stairs. “Yes. Thank you for cooking an amazing lunch!”

Harmonia gave her a curious glance before going back into the kitchen.

She remained in her room pacing about, letting the staff know she didn’t want to be disturbed. Psyche ran the plan through her mind for the hundredth time. It seemed fairly simple: she’d sneak into the room in the east wing and look around. He had to be hiding something. She stared at the knife on her bed. It would only be for protection. Psyche had also snatched a candle from one of the drawers downstairs just in case.

She grabbed the knife and the candle, slipping them in her back pocket, and walked out into the hallway. Her ears strained for sounds. All she could hear was Harmonia and Adrestia chattering in the kitchen. Anteros offered to drive her sisters home, so he would be gone for some time. This gave her maybe a half hour before they would try to get her to have dinner.

Psyche walked slowly towards the east wing. Though it matched the interior design, she felt something strange in the air. She couldn’t place her finger on it but only her curiosity made her venture on. The door at the end of the hallway loomed closer. With bated breath, she gripped the knob and turned. Much to her surprise, the door was unlocked.

Her eyebrow raised. For a room she was forbidden to enter, it seemed strange that the door would be open. Shoving her anxiety aside, Psyche pushed the door as it creaked slowly on the hinges. With enough room to squeeze in, she closed the door behind her as the room filled with shadows. Psyche exhaled softly in the darkness. Fumbling with a match, she struck it against the door and lit the candle. The small flame embraced her with warmth and a glow. Not giving off much light, she held it out in front to lead her around. Every few steps she stumbled having no luck finding a switch. So far from what she could see, nothing stood out. She made out a dresser and mirror in the corner.

How curious. Did someone live here?

just then a snore cut into the darkness, almost making her scream. Psyche clutched her chest before grabbing the knife from her pocket.

Who’s in here?!

She stepped with caution towards the sound and saw a couch. Not noticing much around her, she tripped against a small table. With a muffled cry, she dropped the knife trying to catch the case that fell. Psyche winced as something poked her hand as she grabbed the objects placing them back on the table. Her body tingled with warmth. Crouched down, she grabbed the candle, noticing she was close to the source of the sound.

With her face covered in a sheen of sweat, trembling hands held out the candle. What she saw made her almost cry out.

He laid there asleep, curled against a pillow. Dressed only in pajama pants, she could see the definition on his muscles. Dark hair fanned around him. That chin, those lips...wait were those wings?! It was him! The man from her dreams. Eros!

Psyche jerked back as she tripped forward, the candle sliding from her hand as it dropped on his arm.

Jaebeom opened his eyes with a painful shout, his wings spreading out as he jumped back holding his injured arm. Meeting her gaze, gloom washed over his face.

“You–” he said, voice hoarse with sleep.

Psyche, still shaken up, didn't realize she had pricked herself on his darts. The tingling she felt earlier increased.

“Y-You’re him,” she whispered.

Jaebeom held back a wince as the burn grew worse. “That’s beside the point. You broke my trust, Psyche.”

“B-But I-I–”

Her heart sank as he turned away from her, his wings concealing him. “I only asked one thing of you. You were to not enter the east wing under any circumstance.” He choked back a sob. “Now we can’t be together.”

“Wait, please Eros–” She reached to hold his hand.

He jerked away, swatting her hand from him. “Don’t touch me. You lost those privileges to call me that name.”

She stepped back hurt, clutching her hand as her eyes welled with tears. “Please, I’m sorry.”

“It’s too late,” he stepped away. “I loved you, Psyche, but you betrayed me.”

She sank to the floor as a light cast in the room surrounding him. And then he was gone.

18 notes · View notes

hobeemin · 4 years ago

Text

Eros et Psyche - Part 3: Philia

💘 Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Adventure, Drama, s2l, Greek God myth AU

💘 Pairing: Im Jaebeom x (f) OC

💘 Rating: 18+

💘 Warning(s): heartbreak, Aphrodite becomes a mother scorned, revenge, alcohol as a coping mechanism, Psyche goes through some serious tasks, mention of death(?)

💘 Word Count: 8.4k

💘 Credits: Beta read by the marvelous @yoongsgguktae 💜 ily sis thank you

💘 Summary: A modern take on the Greek myth of Eros and Psyche.

💘 A/N: Part of The Intimacy Anthology Project hosted by @peonybane found here

Ahh the last part to this exciting trilogy. I hope you enjoyed reading this. It was so much fun making this tale. I definitely want to try more myths down the road. Without further ado, here is the finale to Eros et Psyche 💜

< 💘 >

Krystal punched in the keypad to her apartment and stepped inside as the low beep went out. With a loud sigh, she dropped her bags near the door.

“It’s good to be home,” she spoke out loud, walking to the windows to pull the drapes back. “Never again will I let Hera and Hestia talk me into spa retreat–hateful, bitter bitches.” She grimaced basking in the sunlight rolling her shoulders.

“Now, where are mummy’s puppies,” she cooed, turning around to search. She jumped screaming to see Jaebeom curled on the couch. A bottle of ambrosia half-empty on the table. Phobos and Deimos at his feet whimpering.

What startled her the most was that he was in true form, wings resting over him like a blanket. “Jiffy Poo,” she ran over propping his head in her lap.

Jaebeom stirred with a groan. “Mother?”

“Yes dear,” she answered, stroking back his hair. The haphazard bandage on his arm caught her eye. “What happened? Who did this to you?”

Jaebeom closed his eyes with a grunt. “I-I can’t.”

Krystal’s eyes glowed as she helped him off her lap to get a better look. “Honey, you’ve been drinking and you’re hurt.” She bit her lip sitting up. “Stay here, I’ll wrap you up better.”

She came back in with a first aid kit and began to assess his wound. Jaebeom let her fuss over him as she put ointment on the burn. “So, are you going to tell me what happened?”

He suddenly let out a drunk sob, burying his face in his mother’s shoulder.

“Psyche,” he mumbled tearfully.

Krystal paused, eyes hardened. “What did you say?”

It seemed as though hours had passed once Jaebeom finished his story. Exhausted, he laid against the couch arm, spent of whatever energy he had left. Krystal placed a cigarette between her lips and inhaled. It was the only thing keeping her from running out and wreaking revenge on that skank. As Jaebeom fell asleep on the couch, finally calm and returning to his human form, Krystal draped a blanket over him and kissed his cheek. She stroked his face with a serene smile.

“Don’t worry dear. Mummy will take care of everything.”

^^^

Days went by. Psyche locked herself away in her bedroom. Refusing to eat anything Harmonia would bring to her. She rocked in the seat by the window. Sadness almost choking her in a grip. Her heart was heavy. It was as if a part of her had been taken. She was alone for good. Sobs shook her body as she thought of him.

He was real. Everything he did, he did for her. And she had to ruin it. Psyche was sure she loved him. He’d been the only one who looked at her as a person. Saw something besides her beauty.

Betrayal hurt, it ached through her body. What could she do? She felt helpless. Wallowing in self-pity, she barely registered her bedroom door slamming open. Adrestia, with Harmonia in tow, came barreling in. They stared at her shaking their heads.

“C’mon, get up,” Adrestia ordered.

Psyche ignored her, turning her back from them. The maid scowled, grabbing her shoulders to look her square in her eyes.

“This self-pity crap has got to stop,” Adrestia lectured. “Sure, you broke his trust going against everything he asked. And we even told you not but nooo–”

Harmonia cleared her throat glaring at her sister. Adrestia rolled her eyes but settled down. “Okay, maybe I’m being a bit harsh, but it's for your own good Psyche. Jaebeom...er– J cares about you more than you know. Shit, we’ve never seen him this in love. Right Harm?”

“Yeah, our brother is head over heels for you.”

Psyche sniffed, wiping her nose on her sleeve. “Wait, he’s your brother?”

“Yes. Yes, he is–Anteros too. He’s the God of Desire, Eros,” Harmonia explained. “And he fell in love with you.”

You could have knocked her over with a stick. “What? That...how?”

Adrestia joined on the seat with a shrug. “Does any of this make sense? All we know is that he cared for you, but now he’s hurt.”

Harmonia patted her knee gently. “Do you love him, Psyche?”

She shifted under their gaze, fiddling with the ring on her finger. All she could think about was him. But was it the dart or her true feelings?

“The dart only heightened your feelings for him,” Adrestia cut in.

Psyche raised her brows staring. “How do you know?”

Harmonia took her hand and turned it over to reveal a faded purple mark. She pointed at it with a smile. “This. That color only appears if the person’s feelings are true.”

Psyche felt the tears drop onto her lap as she covered her hands. “Yes,” she answered muffled. “I do love him.”

“Then fight for him,” Adrestia said.

Psyche dried her eyes taking a deep breath. “How?”

Harmonia and Adrestia gave each other a look. “There’s only one place he’d go.”

Psyche sat up. “Where? I'll go there. Tell me, please.”

Harmonia pursed her lips together. “Our mother. Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love.”

Psyche’s brows raised past her bangs. “Aphrodite? Isn’t she married to Heph–”

“Aht! Aht!” Adrestia covered her mouth. “We don’t speak his name.” Shaking her head she removed her hand. “Ares is our father.”

“Oh.”

Harmonia shrugged. “It’s a long story, quite boring really, but back to you dear.” She pulled out a small card and placed it in her hand. “This will lead you to him. I wish you luck.”

Adrestia squeezed her hand. “Kick some ass and get him back.”

Psyche twirled the card in her hands, a look of determination on her face. I promise to win you back Eros.

“Not necessary.”

The trio jumped in surprise to see Krystal appear in the bedroom. Poised with a cigarette, she propped her sunglasses on top of her dark hair as she crossed her legs sitting on the bed. Her eyes boring into Psyche’s with distaste.

“So you’re the one,” she hissed. Now that she was face to face with her, Krystal hated her even more. Her eyes blazed seeing the ring on her finger. How annoying. Jaebeom just had to fall for this woman.

Harmonia and Adrestia stood up looking at their mother in shock. Krystal gave them a smirk. “Thank you, girls. Mummy can take care of this. Give us some alone time.”

Harmonia and Adrestia scurried out passing looks of sympathy to her. As the door clicked shut, Krystal turned her attention back on Psyche, a smile stamped on her face. She patted the spot next to her with a coo.

“Come here. Let’s get to know each other better.”

Psyche shook her staying at her spot by the window. “No thank you. I’d rather stay here.”

Krystal's eyes glowed as she blew a trail of smoke from between her lips. “That wasn’t a suggestion.”

Psyche closed the distance between them, sitting on the edge away from her. “You’re–”

Krystal tapped the ash from the end with a snort. “You know very well who I am sweetie and I know who you are, so let's cut the polite bullshit,” she glanced at her with a sneer. “You hurt my son. Now, I hurt you. Seems fair.”

Psyche jumped off the bed shaking her. “I can’t begin to describe how sorry I am. If I could only see him–”

“Aht,” Krystal pointed her cigarette at Psyche with a frown. “Therein lies the problem. You won’t ever see him again. Got it, missy?”

Psyche sank to the floor in a heap holding back a choked sob. “I give my word–”

“Words mean little to me dear.” She blew a puff of smoke in her face with a smirk. “I’m a woman of action.”

Krystal finished her cigarette, extinguishing the bud and throwing it in the trash. She wiped her hands and stood up grabbing her purse. She rolled her eyes at the lump in front of her. “I’m never one to let a woman suffer, so I’ll give you a chance.”

Psyche looked up with hopeful eyes. Krystal frowned glaring at her. “Don’t get your hopes up, dear. I’m still the head B around here. You’re going to need all the luck if you even want to lay eyes on Jaebeom.”

“What do I–”

“Just be at that address on that card tomorrow morning at 9 am sharp. Don’t be late,” she hissed, disappearing in a cloud of perfume.

^^^

Anteros parked in front of the large apartment complex. “We’re here Madam.”

Psyche peered out the window quite intimidated by the structure. “She lives here?”

“Mhmm. On the top floor,” he answered.

Figures.

Anteros got out and opened her door for her and once she stepped out he gave her a quick hug. “I wish you the best. Aphrodite isn’t the easiest person to talk to–I should know–but play onto your strengths.”

Psyche nodded squeezing his hands. “Thank you Anteros.”

She walked into the building still unsure of what was to come. She looked inside the lobby, empty minus a security guard sitting at the desk. As she walked up to the desk, Krystal appeared beside her. Hands placed on her hips, she tapped her heel on the floor.

“Come along, I don’t have all day!”

Psyche followed behind her keeping her distance as they reached the elevators and went up to the penthouse. She tried not to look in awe as they walked inside. It was if not equally as glamorous as Jaebeom’s place. Sure Psyche grew up well off, but this was on another level. The place oozed of the bourgeois.

What kind of money was she getting paid just to model?

Krystal noticed the expression on Psyche’s face and snorted. “When you pick up your jaw, follow me into my walk-in closet.”

Psyche blushed running after her into the large bedroom. Krystal slid open the accordion door and walked in snapping for Psyche to follow. If it wasn’t for the fantastical elements surrounding this turn of events, Psyche would have gladly given this woman her two cents. But she needed to focus. After all this was the mother of the man she loved. Best wait until after the wedding. She hadn't realized she’d been deep in thought until Krystal’s perfectly manicured nails came into her peripheral.

She snapped again, giving her a sour look. “To think they thought you were better looking than me.”

Psyche stared at her with this disdain. Krystal was making it awfully hard to keep her temper in check. She breathed out hard through her nose, letting the comment roll over her.

“Alright, why am I in your closet?”

Krystal grinned, clapping her hands. “Wonderful for you to ask.” She gestured to the dresses strewn about the floor. “You’re going to sort all my clothes,” she pointed at two dresses. “By color and type.”

“Those are both white,” Psyche reasoned.

Krystal’s face turned into a scowl. “One is porcelain and the other is daisy, thank you very much! As a fashion model, you ought to be ashamed to not know the difference!”

Psyche winced away scanning the room. Most of the clothing looked the same. How was she going to figure it out? Krystal chuckled darkly, “You have five hours to complete this or you'll never see him again. Mark my words.”

She picked at the imaginary lint on her jacket with a giggle. “Maybe this will get you off that high horse. My son is too good for you. He’ll find better. I’ll make sure of it,” she taunted, stepping closer poking her finger in her chest. “You'll be just a figment of his imagination by the time I’m through. You disgust me.”

Psyche slapped her hand away with a hard stare. “Don’t ever touch me again.” Crossing her arms over her chest, she planted her feet on the ground. “You’re cruel, but I love Jaebeom more than anything. I’m only agreeing to this because it's my only chance for redemption with him. I’m not doing this for you, let's be clear about at.”

“Save it, love. Time's a-wastin’. Off you go.” Krystal smiled walking out the closet leaving her alone in her thoughts.

Psyche could hear the front door open and close. Now she truly was alone. She sighed sadly glancing at the whirlwind of clothing surrounding her. All this in five hours. There was no way. She began picking up the stilettos glancing around for the matching pair just as she heard the door open again.

Probably back to gloat.

As the steps grew closer, more dread filled her heart. Until a woman, she didn’t recognize poked her in.

“Oh good! You’re still here!”

Psyche gave her a blank look. “D-Do I know you?”

She giggled, stepping holding out her hand. “Yes and no...er I’m a friend of Jaebeom. I work for his mum too...kinda like a personal assistant. I’m Daphne.”

Psyche raised an eyebrow as she stared. The woman looked vaguely familiar to her. But where had she seen her before? “I-I’m sorry for staring, but I feel like I’ve seen you before.”

Daphne brushed her aside with a smile shaking her head. “I’ve just got that face.” She looked around the room tsking as she went. “Well, Krystal really outdid herself.” She helped Psyche off the floor and patted her shoulder. “I’m here to help. We’ll have this place cleaned up in no time!”

Psyche gave her a dubious expression. “Why are you offering to help?”

Daphne sighed, wrapping her hair behind her ear. “I hate to see Jaebeom so distraught. It seemed like he loved you dearly.”

And he’s back in my home and I need him gone.

Psyche felt her heartache at the mention of him. Nodding, she glanced around. “Okay, let’s do it.” Daphne grinned, pointing to a pile. “We’ll split up. I’ll do dresses and you work on the shoes. Deal?”

“Deal.”

They both worked hard. Daphne gave her tips on how to decipher different shades from others. It was tricky, but Psyche got the hang of it before she knew it. The hours ticked by but the closet’s mess began to lessen. She could see the floor.

As she placed the final pair of Manolo Blahniks in their respective place, she dropped to the floor, a light sheen of sweat on her face. Her shirt damp and clinging to her form.

Daphne wiped her hands and leaned against the wall. “Good job. Krystal won’t know what hit her.” She peeked at her wristwatch with a huff. “I should get going. Are you gonna be okay?”

Psyche nodded, wiping her forehead. “Yes. Thank you again for your help, Daphne. I really appreciate it.”

“My pleasure. We gals gotta stick together. Good luck!” She waved as she left the penthouse.

Psyche rested her head against one of the closet doors. Exhaustion covering her face as she dozed off.

“Wake up!”

Psyche jerked awake to see Krystal looming above her.

“Enjoy your nap Sleeping Beauty?”

She rose from her spot with a small yawn and rubbed her neck working out the kinks. “Great, it felt like I was in the Hilton,” she mumbled.

Krystal snorted distastefully and pushed past her to look around. To her horror, everything was in its proper place: the shoes matched and color-coordinated, the dresses neatly hung on the bars, she even made sure they were organized by brand. Krystal’s eyes narrowed. There was no way she could finish this task in the amount of time she gave her, let alone by herself. Still, this didn’t deter her from her plan. Psyche wasn’t going to win so easily.

“Hmm, you actually did it,” she spoke up. Psyche sighed in relief only causing Krystal to laugh. “Oh, my dear you’ve still got much to do. Follow me.”

Psyche opened her mouth to protest but closed it and walked after Krystal. She led her down a hall into a room she hadn’t recalled seeing earlier. Krystal held her finger to her lips and opened the door slowly. The inside replicated a children’s room, covered in pink and white, she was ready to see a small child, until she noticed the dog beds. She gave Krystal a bewildered expression.

“What the hell?”

Krystal purred at the two sleeping dogs, two white fluff balls snoring on their beds. “Phobos and Deimos, my wittle babies.” She clapped softly before turning to Psyche with a snarl. “Your next task: them.”

Psyche scratched the back of her neck. “What about them?”

“They wear matching gold collars that need to be polished every week. You are to get them off their necks so they can be sent to the jewelers.”

“Oh, that’s not so hard–”

“–However, they are aggressive to anyone except my family. And they need to be groomed and the room cleaned,” Krystal giggled out. She pulled out her phone with a wistful sigh. “I’m giving you until tonight to finish. I expect them to be with me at my next photoshoot. Got it?”

“But I–”

“Bye for now.” Krystal waved as she disappeared.

Psyche looked at the dogs as they slumbered. Damn it. I’m screwed.

^^^

By now the Pomeranians had woken and were yipping at her heels, growling if she got close to them. Psyche backed away looking for something to placate them from attacking.

“Nice doggies...good doggies...please don’t use me like a chew toy,” she pleaded. A pink ball caught her eye and grabbed it, squeezing it in her hand. Phobos and Deimos stopped, heads tilted to the side as they stared inquisitively at her. Psyche threw the ball in the opposite direction and ran out the room, closing it shut. She slid down to the floor with a groan.

First, she was a maid, now a glorified babysitter, a dog babysitter at that! She brought her hands up to her face, trying not to cry for the hundredth time today. It seemed the stress was making her secretly regret being her.

“Hey.”

Psyche jumped up startled at the person standing in front of her. Even though she was short, the aura that exuded around her was overpowering. Lips in a pout, she tapped her black Doc Marten heel on the marble floor. Arms crossed against her chest, she kept the outfit simple: white tank, dark baggy jeans, and a flannel shirt tied around her waist. Short bright silvery hair framed her face in layers and was styled into a side ponytail. Psyche cast her eyes down from the intimidating stare.

The woman scoffed, stepping back to give her some room. “There’s no way you are the one trying to win over Eros.”

Psyche stood up with a frown. “I’m sorry but do I know you?”

She shook her head. “No, I’m a friend of Daphne’s. Her husband– that happy-go-lucky twat–is my brother.”

Psyche sputtered trying to comprehend her words. “Uh...what?”

She sighed in exasperation. “I’m Wendy–sorry er...you want the real name– I’m Artemis.”

“But that would mean–”

“Yeah. Yeah. Apollo is my brother,” she said deadpan.

Psyche blinked a few times as the wheels turned in her head. Wendy shook her head with a snort. “You can figure it out later, but I’m here to help.”

She stuck her chin towards the door. “What’s in there?”

Psyche laughed nervously. “Two very aggressive Pomeranians.”

Wendy clapped with a hint of a smile. “You're in luck, I have a way with animals. What do you need to do?”

“Get their collars off to be sent to get cleaned and groom them,” Psyche explained.

If Wendy rolled her eyes even higher, they would have gotten stuck in her head. “Krystal and her fucking pettiness,” she mumbled. She turned to Psyche, hand on the knob. “Alright, the plan is that I will calm them for you while you do what needs to be done. Okay?”

“Oh, but–”

Wendy groaned, closing her eyes. “Listen, we don’t have much time to talk. You are fighting for something–a man no less–and the only way to leach that prissy, big-headed hag is to beat her at her own game. So get it together Psyche, alright.”

Psyche shook off the initial shock and gave her a curt nod. “You’re right. I’m ready to beat her.”

Wendy slapped the back of her back, causing her knees to buckle. “Great! Lead the way!”

Psyche gulped as she opened the door, she peeked inside noticing how quiet they were being. She pushed the door wider just as the little demons came out snarling. She screamed running to avoid being bitten. Wendy pushed her aside, planting herself in between Psyche and the dogs. They skidded to a stop looking up at Wendy curiously. She crouched down staring at them hard.

“Down,” she commanded.

The dogs whimpered as they stood on their hind legs, pawing at her leg. Wendy cracked a smile as she began to pet them. Phobos and Deimos leaned into the pets barking happily, tongues lolling out at the attention.

“Oh, you’re not so bad. Your mama is just rotten,” she cooed, getting a particular spot behind Phobos ears. She laughed, turning her attention to Psyche. “Go ahead. They’re harmless.”

Psyche couldn’t believe how quickly their moods flipped. Wendy truly was the Goddess Artemis. She knelt beside her while the dogs were preoccupied and unclasped the golden collars from around their necks. With an exhale, she stored them in the cases that were being sent to the jewelers. She squealed with glee.

“Now I have to bathe them.”

Wendy smirked standing as she stood. Phobos and Deimos followed after her into the bathroom as she ran the water in the tub. “C'mon Psy.”

Soon they were elbow deep in suds cleaning the dogs with care. Psyche smiled as she scrubbed Deimos’s head. They weren’t so bad once you got past the vicious mini tempers. Deimos and Phobos warmed up to Psyche as she cleaned them, even nudging their noses at her for pets, which she happily obliged.

Once they rinsed them and they shook the extra water away, she filled their bowls with kibble and set to cleaning their room. With Wendy there, it didn’t take much time. Psyche replaced the pillows with fresh ones just as Wendy emptied the trash.

Psyche circled the room with a smile. “I think we’re about done.”

Wendy checked her phone with a nod of approval. “Right on time. You’ll be able to make her photoshoot with time to spare.” She walked into the kitchen towards the dogs. They barked at her and she laughed.

“Don’t be so hard on her. She means well. Okay?”

They yipped running between her legs wagging their tails. Wendy nodded. “They won’t be any trouble. Deimos and Phobos have taken a shine to you. Don’t let Krystal’s mood ruin it.”

Psyche grabbed her hands shaking them profusely. “I can’t thank you enough.”

Wendy smirked. “No worries. I’m happy I could help. Besides, I love a good wedding–don’t let anyone know that–I hope you succeed in getting Jaebeom back. He really loves you.”

Pink tinted her cheeks as Wendy laughed before disappearing in front of her eyes. Psyche looked down at the dogs with a shrug. “Love is strange.”

Phobos snorted giving a short bark.

^^^

Psyche wished she had a camera to capture the look on Krystal’s face. It looked as if she swallowed a lemon or old milk. She couldn’t believe her eyes when she saw Psyche walking with her dogs, collars shiny under the lights of the studio. They were even licking her hands for pets!

Krystal growled, nearly crushing the mirror in her hand.

Psyche smiled holding out their leashes for her. “All groomed and ready for your shoot.”

Krystal snatched the leashes from out her hands with a hiss. She eyed her with distrust as she sat in her makeup chair. “I don’t know how you’re doing this, but I’m gonna find out.”

Psyche felt a tiny bit smug towards her but hid her smile. “We’re up to two tasks I’ve finished.”

Krystal tapped her chin with a nod. “That we are.” She smirked, holding up a plastic cup with a symbol stamped on the front that looked vaguely like the Gorgon Medusa. “Your next task is to retrieve a drink from Styx.”

Psyche’s shoulders dropped. “That coffee place?”

Krystal chuckled, shaking her head. “Not just any coffee shop darling. It is the coffee shop of anyone with wealth to spare. You’re to get my favorite drink with a little extra.”

She frowned, staring at the Goddess. “And that drink is?”

“Figure it out. You’ll have to tell them exactly how I like it. I’ll know if the tiniest changes were made. Now shoo.”

The makeup artist appeared at her side, dusting her face with bronzer. Krystal opened the one eye that wasn’t being painted in eyeshadow. “I expect you back before the hour ends.”

Psyche gulped and ran for the door, the clock already ticking against her. Luckily, Styx Café was only a few blocks away from the location of the shoot. She almost passed the tinted windows of the storefront. Pausing, she pushed open the swinging door and stepped in.

*What the hell?

This didn’t seem like your average coffee shop. There was an eerie vibe around the place. Soft music flowed from the speakers as people sat around a pond–yes a pond–where glassfish swam about. With a weary look, Psyche stood in the growing line as people ordered drinks and light snacks. Her stomach growled as she waited, shifting her weight in line.

Though she was hungry, dread replaced the hunger as she tried to figure out what Krystal’s order was. The spot between her eyes ached while she studied the board. Any of those drinks could have been hers. Leave it to that woman to make it difficult. She brought her bottom lip in between her teeth as the line shortened each time.

Then it was her turn. She forced a smile at the barista looking up at the board.

“What can I get ya?”

“Uh...I-I’m not really sure. I’m getting a drink for Krystal and she didn’t inform me what she likes,” Psyche whispered, leaning forward.

The barista popped her gum with a lip smack. “Figures. Look I can’t help ya miss. We get specialty orders every day and–”

“She’ll have venti half-caf, soy latte at 120 degrees, foam on the side, and 6 pumps of sugar-free caramel,” someone spoke up.

Psyche and the barista turned slack-jawed at the man standing to her left. His smile seemed to light up the room as he stared at her. Winking, he looked up at the barista with a nod. “Got that?”

The barista swallowed her gum coughing as she punched in the order. “Y-Yes, sir. I’ll have it made immediately.”

He turned his attention back to Psyche and held out his hand. “Name’s Jackson or Apollo on a good name. It’s a pleasure to meet my best friend's fiancée.”

Psyche shook his hand gingerly as her face darkened in shame. “Nice to meet you, too. Though I’m not sure I’ll be his wife now.”

Jackson gave her a skeptical stare. “I highly doubt it. He’s just hurt and rightfully so. But I see you’re making an effort to be forgiven and I admire that. Hell, I sent my wife and sister to guide you with these ridiculous tasks. I wouldn’t have bothered if I hadn’t seen something special in you, Psyche. Jaebeom loves you and you love him...that’s what it boils down to.”

Psyche went to reply, but the barista appeared breathless holding the cup. “Here you go!” She squeaked out as she passed the cup to Psyche and asked for the next customer.

Jackson squeezed her hand and left a kiss on her knuckles. “Best of luck to you my dear.”

She gave Jackson a grateful smile as she left with the coffee cup, running back to the photoshoot searching for her dressing room. Psyche saw Krystal sitting in her chair, makeup almost finished. Psyche ran the remaining steps and shoved the cup into her hands. Breathless, she bent over grabbing her knees.

“Here’s your venti half-caf, soy latte at 120 degrees, foam on the side, and six pumps of sugar-free caramel.”

Krystal growled, narrowing her eyes, and took a long sip. She sat there for a moment letting the burning liquid scald her tongue. She wanted her to fail, but damn it, someone helped her again! Krystal had an idea, and they would pay sooner or later. For now, she focused on the woman in front of her. The thorn in her side who had somehow won the heart of her son. She slammed her fist on the makeup table scattering the products across the floor.

“Fuck,” she muttered glaring at her reflection. Her eyes cut to Psyche with utter repugnance. “I don’t know how you’ve done it, but you’ve succeeded for the last time!”

She jumped out of her chair and slammed the door shut, rattling the vanity mirror. Phobos and Deimos, who had been sleeping in the corner of the dressing room, woke with a start staring at the door. Krystal centered her anger, taking a deep breath and turned to Psyche with a smile, one that didn’t reach her eyes. She sauntered back to her vanity and opened a drawer rummaging through until she found what she was looking for. “Sit,” she ordered Psyche, pointing to the couch.

One look from Krystal made Psyche close her mouth in protest. Krystal held a small indigo box between her fingers. She tossed it up the air with a hum.

“Know what this is?”

Psyche sighed exasperatedly, “No, but I have a feeling you’re going to tell me.”

Krystal ignored the remark and continued on. “Let’s just say it’s a little beauty treatment to keep me firm and youthful,” she chuckled.

Psyche bit back her next retort. Why on earth would the Goddess of Love need any beauty treatments? Unusual yes, but the young woman knew better than to ask. She didn’t need any other problems with her. Psyche was already on thin ice with her future mother-in-law. She shuddered to herself at the idea. Just what she needed, a crazy mother-in-law. A questionable look crossed her face as her eyes followed the rise and fall of the box in Krystal’s hands.

“What does that have to do with me?”

“I’m glad you asked.” The goddess shook the box gently. “I’ve run out and you’re going to get me more. It’s a fairly simple errand.”

Psyche bit her lip. She was going to regret asking her next question. “And where do I get more of this product from?”

“The Underworld,” she answered airily.

Psyche balked as the information sunk in. The Underworld?! A squeak passed her lips as the box fell into her lap.

Krystal tapped her nails on the vanity giving her a serious expression. “Your instructions are very clear: you’ll give Persephone the box to refill with her beauty serum and come back right away to me.”

She gripped Psyche’s arm, digging into her skin until she squirmed. “Do not by any means open the box. Is that clear?”

Psyche wriggled from her grasp and rubbed the spot. “Yeah, I got it.” She pocketed the box, exhaustion setting in her body. Did she have it in her to finish? Psyche was determined to prove her wrong. “I’ll get your crappy stuff.” She glared at her with a frown. “This better be the last one so you’ll leave me be and I can see Jaebeom again,” she called walking out the room.

Krystal giggled, throwing her head. “Oh, you’re in for a treat my dear.”

^^^

Jaebeom tossed and turned in bed letting out soft groans. He woke with a start, breathing hard. Something didn’t feel right. He glanced at the bandage on his arm and frowned. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t shake his thoughts of her. Psyche hurt him, but that didn’t mean he still loved her. The past few days were only of her haunting his dreams. The glowy smile that seemed to shine around her, everything made him ache to be close to her once more. The familiar scent of her perfume hit him instantaneously. The memory of their first night together made him tremble. Jaebeom reasoned she couldn’t have meant any harm.

“I gotta see her again,” he said aloud.

Standing, he dressed quickly and left out the room only to collide with his mother. Jaebeom looked over her with a hint of suspicion. “Where have you been?”

She smirked at the door slipping her shoes off. “Work honey. Remember I said I had a photoshoot today?”

He didn’t look convinced. “No, you’re up to something.” He caught the faint whiff of that perfume once more. He grabbed his mother’s arms pushing her against the wall. “Where is she? What did you do?!”

Krystal laughed staring into her son’s eyes. “I did what needed to be done.”

Jaebeom roared, shoving her aside as he ran for the door. She chuckled, sliding to the floor. “You'll thank me someday! I only want the best for you!”

^^^

Psyche gripped the box in her hand as she walked along the sidewalk. She looked around for any inkling of a clue on how to find The Underworld. She shivered as the temperature dropped. What was odd was how there were few people on the streets. Even at such a late hour when bars and clubs would be open, the streets were almost bare. Still, she didn’t want to think too much about it. The only thing on her mind was finishing this task and accomplishing her goal.

She closed her eyes for a moment remembering how warm it felt to be in his arms. Her heart sank in realization. Jaebeom might not ever forgive her, but she still loved him.

Lost in her thoughts, Psyche didn’t notice the person walking towards her and ran into them. She yelled in surprise as she fell to the ground with a thud.

“Hey!” she called after them. Wincing, she grabbed the box, pausing to see two coins laying next to it. She picked them up, twirling them between her fingers. She gasped as a vision burst into her mind.

Subway...Charon...pay the fare.

Psyche knew what she had to do. Picking up the box and coins, she set off to the subway station. The stairs loomed as steam trickled from the entrance. Heart hammering loud in her chest, Psyche descended down the stairs unsure of what to expect. She reached the turnstile, looking at the monitor. She dropped a coin into the slit and pushed to enter. Besides her, the place was empty. The speakers against the wall crinkled on to life.

“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Charon Station. Arrival of H train via UW line in 5 min. Final stop Cerberus Station.”

The wind picked up as she heard the faint sound of the train coming closer. The lights flashing bright as the sounds grew louder. The train slowed as it came into the station, the door chiming as it slid open.

“Your train has arrived.”

Psyche stepped inside looking around and picked a seat away from the other people. Once the doors shut, the trains lurched forward as it chugged down the tracks. She turned her head watching the other people. Expressions of somberness were etched on their faces as no one said a word. No chatter, music, anything, it was daunting. It felt like all the happiness was sapped from this tiny bubble.

It made the hairs on her neck stand on end. Even with the central air, the inside of the train felt unusually cold. Psyche kept her mind off the cold as she thought about reaching the Cerebus Station without any problems. The rhythm of the train made her eyes close as her head leaned against the glass.

“Kiss me,” she whispered. Opening her eyes to look at him, she purred softly. “Please. There’s nothing else I want more.”

“You’re beautiful,” he said in a hushed tone.

“Forever mine,” he purred. He placed the matching ring in her hand as she slipped it onto him. “

Forever yours,” she echoed staring at him.

The jerking of the car on the tracks roused her awake. Psyche looked around in confusion. She wiped the drool from the corners of her lips and sighed. She looked down at the ring twisting it fondly. It seemed he rarely left her thoughts no matter what she did.

The chime over the speaker crinkled to life as the train began to slow.

“Welcome to Cerberus Station. Please mind the doors and watch your step before exiting. Thank you.”

Psyche watched as the people filed out exiting the train wordlessly. Once it cleared, she walked out staring into the dark of the station. A dreary place with dim lighting. A few benches with trash littered around. The group had disappeared up a flight of stairs. She went in that direction only to be stopped by three seemingly vicious dogs.

Fuck, not again.

They growled, pulling their lips back to reveal sharpened teeth. Drool slipping from their mouths. Psyche shivered under their gaze, frozen in terror. just as one crouched down ready to lunge forward, a whistle cut into the darkness. All three dogs paused and whines rumbled from their throats as they lowered their positions. A woman appeared from the shadows carrying a package wrapped in what looked like butcher paper. The dogs turned with excitement jumping around. She chuckled untying the string.

“Sit.”

They got on their hind legs obediently, noses sniffing expectantly. Three large ribeye steaks were placed on the ground. The dogs looked at the woman with patience. She smiled. “Alright, go ahead.”

Each dog ran forward slipping under from their nails as they chewed at the meat noisily. The woman met Psyche’s gaze with a quiet smile. “Sorry about that. They can be aggressive when it’s dinnertime.”

Psyche gulped with a shaky laugh. “I think anyone would be if they were that hungry.”

The woman titled her back laughing. The sound reminded Psyche of the twinkling of wind chimes during a springtime shower. She chuckled, wiping an imaginary tear from her eye, and returned her gaze to Psyche. “You don’t belong down here, you’re still alive. What can I do for you?”

Psyche felt the color drain from her cheeks. This was the place?! She’d made it to The Underworld! So that meant that this woman was…

“Are you Persephone?” she blurted out.

The woman blinked quite taken back. She recovered, giving her side smile. “I haven’t been called that in ages, at least by my mother. You can call me Joy, but yes I am. How do you know me?”

Psyche held out the box wanting to shove it in her hands. “Oh, thank goodness! I was sent here by Krystal–Aphrodite, you probably know her, of course, you do, you’re both goddesses, but I’ve been through so much and she needed me to get something from you and I wasn’t sure I’d even get it, I mean this all seems ridiculous, but I love Jaebeom so much, I was willing to–”

Joy held up her hand silencing Psyche’s rant and nodded. “Say no more.” She chuckled taking the box from and began walking. “I’ll help you, dear.”

Psyche followed after her reaching what looked like a throne room. Joy pointed to one of the seats. “Wait here. I'll be right back.”

Psyche dropped into the chair as she looked around. The place, considering it was The Underworld, was quite peaceful, nothing like the dreary subway ride. She could almost fall asleep. She jolted awake as she noticed Joy stand in front of her, observing her. She chuckled, wrapping her long light brown strands past her earlobe.

“I almost didn’t want to wake you,” she said softly. Sighing, she looked around the throne room as her mood saddened. “It gets awfully lonely down here when he’s away.”

“Uh–”

“–Hades, my husband,” Joy answered, placing the box in her hands. “But I knew what I was getting into when I agreed to marry him.” She gave Psyche a knowing look. “We do the craziest things for the ones we love, hmm.”

Psyche felt her cheeks warm as she twirled the box in her hands. She knew that all too well. She stood as Joy walked with her out the room and back to the subway station.

“Thank you, really. I didn’t know what I would do if I couldn’t get this.”

Joy giggled, shaking her head. “Krystal has her reasons, though I think she takes herself a little too seriously. Don’t let her stand in the way of your happiness. Jaebeom is lucky to have someone like you.”

Psyche became flustered as she passed the dogs, now sound asleep in the corner. Joy wrapped her in a hug and kissed her forehead. “For a safe journey. You’ll be able to go to the place of your choice.”

“Per–er Joy thank you,” she stammered walking up to the turnstile and dropping the last coin in. Joy waved her off as the train pulled up with a hiss.

“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Cerebus Station. Departure to Locus via the H line leaving now.”

Psyche walked in as the doors slid open and took a seat, waving out the window to Joy. The Goddess of Spring smiled until she realized she hadn't given her the warning.

“Wait,” she ran down the stairs. “Don’t open the box!”

Psyche curled her brow trying to decipher what she said. She put her hands up with a frown. “What?”

“Don’t open the box!” Joy screamed, waving her hands.

Psyche sighed in frustration just as the subway went out of view into the tunnel. She sat back down letting the dark feeling dissipate. It must have been something, but she’d worry about it later. It couldn’t have been that serious. Right?

^^^

She was back at Locus Manor. The house loomed over her, looking just as intimidating as the first day she arrived, forever changing her destiny. She entered the house looking around. No one was around. That was okay with her. She made her up to her room and striped, walking into the bathroom for a much needed and rewarding shower.

It wasn’t until her skin was pink from the heat that she decided to emerge. Psyche let out a breath of relief as she dried her body, removing the shower cap protecting her curls. Examining the items in her closet she opted for a flowy cornflower blue sundress. The straps wrapped around her neck in a halter top as three other straps crossed her back, but still revealed her skin.

Barefoot, she walked out the manor towards the lake looking for Krystal. It was almost time to give her the box, but she paused as she twirled it thoughtfully.

Beauty only confined to this little box. She smirked examining the lid. What harm could it do? If Krystal used it, surely she could too. After all, she wanted to look her best when she finally saw him again.

With a deep breath, she flipped the latch on the box and opened it slowly. Suddenly a dark form jumped out making her drop the box. It latched around her causing her to lose her breath. It swirled her in a smoky cloud as she let out a cry. It poured from her orifices as she let out a strangled breath clawing at her throat until she collapsed to the ground unmoving, darkness clouded her vision as she let out one last exhale before succumbing to it.

^^^

Jaebeom felt a pull as he flew around. Something didn’t feel right as his heart clenched and butterflies swarmed in his stomach.

“Psyche.”

He swerved going in the opposite direction to the lake house. Dread filled his body unsure of what he would come across. His features darkened.

“If mother did something to her, I swear she’ll regret ever crossing me!”

His wings caught the wind soaring above as he looked around the property. Nothing unusual caught his eye until he saw something near the lake. He flew down to get a closer look, his feet touching the ground as his wings folded back.

As he got closer, he saw that someone laid on the ground. It dawned to him it was a woman. Concern crossed his face as knelt down beside her in the grass. She laid on her side, silvery curls covered her face as he assessed the damage. He gripped her shoulder and shook gently.

“Ma’am, are you alright?”

No movement. And he was sure she wasn’t breathing. Horror crossed his face. He shook harder.

“Ma’am! Are you okay?”

As he shook her, the hair tumbled off her face and he was met with a wrinkle-faced woman, mouth slightly gapped with eyes unfocused.

He trembled now that he noticed the dress she was wearing. Fear keeping him still as he gazed upon her until the ring on her finger caught his eye. The diamonds and garnets shimmering in the sun.

“Psyche,” he moaned in anguish. He picked her up bridal style bringing her over to the gazebo and laid her on the bench. He brushed her hair back clutching her hand in his.

“Baby, please. Who did this to you?”

Jaebeom held back a sob as his Adam’s apple jerked in his throat. He held her form against his chest sobbing quietly. For once in his life, he wasn’t sure what to do. He kissed the top of her head, gripping her tight, rocking back and forth. He didn’t know what he would do without her. Life seemed so bleak. He let out a shuddered cry with a sigh.

“I love you Psyche. Please come back to me. I forgive you. I need you here with me,” he whispered.

He left a faint kiss on her cheeks, his tears spilling onto her face. He sobbed holding her for those moments, his heart breaking with each sob. He choked back as he felt her squirm in his arms. Jaebeom pulled back in surprise to see Psyche’s eyes flutter open. She coughed with a groan, trying to sit up.

She looked at Jaebeom as her vision cleared. A smile spread as her hand caressed his cheek. “Eros,” she murmured, her eyes twinkling.

Jaebeom let out a tearful cry nodding. “Yes, yes I’m here.”

“Am I dreaming?” She tried sitting up, flinching at the pain from her head.

Jaebeom gave her room as he shook her head. “No, you’re not. I’m here.”

As her memories cleared, uneasiness swirled her face. She withdrew from his hold and went over to the lake, limping as she walked. She bent down near the water to scan her reflection.

It was true then, she aged. Her punishment for opening that box. Served her right. It was Krystal’s way of showing her she still held the upper hand. She took note of the wrinkles chiseled on her features. Her body sagged in exhaustion. A few tears spilled from her eyes dropping in the water. She closed her eyes letting the sorrow wash over her.

A weight rested around her waist and shoulder, the warmth sheltering her from the chill off the lake. Jaebeom held her close as she cried in his arms.

“I’m sorry,” she said softly.

“For what?” he mumbled into her hair.

Psyche tugged away to stare into his eyes. “I should have listened. To you, to Joy, I was stupid.”

He lifted her chin giving her a hard stare. “Don’t ever call yourself stupid. You weren’t.” His shoulders slumped in regret. “I was. I didn’t trust you. I was a fool for being so narrow minded. I didn’t give you a chance. I was angry–”

“We both made mistakes Jaebeom,” she interrupted. “What matters is that we can move on.”

Jaebeom searched her eyes. “I was wrong to keep myself from you. Can you forgive me? I promise I’ll never let you feel hurt ever again.”

Psyche sniffed, wiping her eyes. “I only want what’s best for you. We could never be together. Look at me.” Her lip quivered as she came to the resolve. Her heart thumping loud in her chest thinking of Jaebeom. Yes, she loved him, but in her journey, she learned so much about herself. Being able to stand up to those only wanting to bring her down. She was stronger than she knew.

“I'd be content knowing you’ll be with someone who makes you feel the way I felt with you.”

Jaebeom chuckled, softly rubbing small circles on her cheeks. “I only want you, if you’ll have me.”

Her throat jerked as a whimper was heard over her crying. Yet again she felt hot tears crawl down her cheeks. “Only if you’ll have me, too. Stuck in this form.”

Jaebeom’s eyes filled with love as he nodded. “I love your heart and soul Psyche. That’s all that matters.”

His lips found her forehead, pressing them in a kiss filled with devotion and promises as he held her. A glow surrounded them instantly as Psyche’s body morphed back to her original form.

She gasped holding onto Jaebeom as she watched her hands age down, the wrinkles disappearing. She tugged away looking at her reflection, her hands touching her cheeks.

She turned to Jaebeom in astonishment. “I-I’m back.”

Jaebeom grabbed her up, spinning her around in his arms. “Holy Zeus!” He set her down, his arms still on her waist. “I-I’m not sure how it happened, but you’re you.”

She wrapped her arms around his neck, love on her face. “I’m not going to question it. I’ll never question it again. All I know is that I’m where I need to be.”

Jaebeom laughed as happiness erupted across his face. “I want you always beside me Psyche.” He nuzzled against her cheek. “I love you so much and if I can’t kiss you right this moment, I’ll die.”

Psyche purred as she pressed herself to him, her eyes twinkled. “Then kiss me.”

He practically picked her up kissing her with such fervor, Psyche was sure she could hear angels singing. They parted finally needing air. The couple having eyes only for each other.

“Forever yours,” he promised.

“Forever mine,” she responded.

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