#like darling shadow and ‘bout you

[wnter-fall]

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[kveom]

i was tagged by @sevencoloredstar, @squishy-woozi and @wonufied to do this tag game! this was so fun thank you hehe also interesting to see everyone else's choices

i'm not sure who's done this already but tagging: @kimsmingyu @bandzboy @s-lay-ing, @zyx, @ppanghanni and @irlvernon

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[peachesofteal]

Dead Disco / Chapter 7

Dead Disco masterlist

Ghost/Soap/female reader 3.2k words - AO3 Warnings-tags: 18+ Minors DNI. Brief suggestive content. Angst, anxiety, self loathing, relationship issues. Darling is her own tag/warning. Panic attack, eating related issues, fainting. Emotional hurt/comfort, fluff. Established throuple. It's better when they're here.

“It’s nice to meet you.”

Kyle grins in response, and then pulls you in for a hug. His face is full mirth, his cheer warming you from the inside, and you embrace him in return. 

“’bout time they bring you out here. No reason to hide you away all this time.” Something nervous, a light giggle, slips out from between your lips, your eyes rolling in an exaggerated fashion. Johnny's hand flexes against the base of your spine. 

“Gaz.” Simon sighs, and he barks out a laugh before turning back to you. 

“Try not to let these two bore ya to death.” He whispers, before giving them both a nod and ducking down the hall. He makes absolutely no noise, feet silent against the floor, practically disappearing before your eyes, shadow here then gone, presence felt, and then void, all at once.

“He’s nice.” You look up at the two of them. Johnny chuckles, amusement scrawling across his lips and cheeks as he wraps his arm around your waist. 

“Don’t let him fool ye.” He quips and you frown, confused.

“Gaz is… very, very good at his job. One of the best there is, I’d say.” Simon explains gently, and then your stomach sours, because you remember.

What they do. What their jobs are. Why you’re even here in the first place. You’ve never asked for in-depth detail or explanations, but you’ve heard enough, know enough, to know.

He turns the lock and pushes their door open, giving you a view into their room, a short hall that expands out to something that looks like a college dorm, except maybe a bit bigger. It’s got all the similarities though, cinderblocks and an old, tiled floor, singular window and a bit of an odd smell.

“So, this is your room?”

“Aye. We’ve got a big bed, mostly thanks to Si, and a little more space than everyone else on this floor but, this is it.” It’s sparse too, no pictures or personal items, nothing that looks like or resembles them except…

There’s a bulletin board, hanging on the wall above the bed. It’s empty, save for one thing, a photo that’s been stapled to the cork.

It’s of you, this photo, you under a white sheet, smiling at Simon, who’s behind the camera, with just the shadow of Johnny’s hand along your upper arm. It was taken last year, you can tell, because you recognize the style of your hair from that time, and you stand there for too long, staring at it, mouth partially hanging open, breath held in your lungs.

Nothing in this room that reflects them, or their home, or each other… nothing. Except for a photo of you. 

“Darling?” Simon murmurs, and his chest presses against your back, thumb and forefinger stroking along the back of your neck. “You alright?”

“Y-yeah. I… I’m alright.”

“So, like… what is that you guys do?” The question lands to a silent reception, both of them exchanging looks in front of you, almost like you’re not even in the room. You feel awkward, and self-conscious, while they seem to have a silent debate with their eyes.

“We’re in multi-national special ops unit.” Johnny provides, and your eyebrows crease as you process. A what? A multi-national what? You laugh, until you realize their faces are deadly serious.

Wait. Are these guys in the fucking military? 

“Special ops, like… the military special ops?”

“Kind of.”

Oh. 

Fuck. Your cheeks feel hot, and you’re not sure if it’s because of the alcohol or the topic you’ve stumbled upon, but you swallow loudly as you process it. 

You’re not exactly a huge fan of the military. Not like you really know anything about it, just that most of the wars your own country has been involved in for the last twenty years revolve around oil and imperialism, and all the dudes who serve are abusive and predatory. Assholes. Creeps. 

Or at least, that’s what it’s like where you’re from. 

“She didn’t like that.” Simon murmurs from behind the mask, and Johnny grimaces. 

“Alright?” He hums and a small noise gets stuck in your throat, like you want to say yes, want to say no, like you’re not sure what you want. “We travel a lot, for work. So, we’re not always around… that’s where we’ve been the last few weeks. Working.” The words make your heart skip a beat, and you nod, still processing.

Not always around… not always around. 

So they really aren’t planning on making this a thing, then. The thought stings with bitterness against your tongue, and you shove it away. 

 When you don’t say anything in response, Johnny sighs, and reaches for your hand, fingers curled against your palm in your lap. “How did we get on this subject anyway? We’re supposed to be havin’ some fun.” He smiles, big and warm, sending butterflies spiraling through your stomach and up your spine. 

Simon’s gaze never strays from your face, and his brow furrows, like he’s reading you, or piecing you together. The scrutiny makes you shiver. 

Why are you worrying about it? This is only like the third time seeing them, anyway. You’re getting too attached. You’re getting ahead of yourself. You’re just having fun. That’s all it is. 

“Right.” You quip, and then pull your drink towards you before rising from the chair. Your skirt is short, and you realize it’s probably too short when you see Simon’s jaw grinding behind the mask as you turn your body, edge of the fabric brushing against the back of your thighs. His gaze is heavy, it’s hot, and you remember the image of him looking up from between your legs the other night, lower half of his face buried in your cunt, still hidden from view without the scrap of fabric. “So… should we get another round then?” You hold your empty drink, ice clinking against the glass, and Johnny chuckles before standing in front of you, a hand on covetously laying on your waist as his lips brush your cheek. 

“’ll get them, love. You sit.”  

The bed is very, very warm. You don’t even need the duvet and sheet that you have pulled around your shoulders, your hips, but you snuggle down into them farther, breathing in the scent of Johnny’s shampoo, of Simon’s skin.

It all whirs around you in some soft, soothing scented lullaby, and you allow yourself the indulgence, closing your eyes again even though you’ve only just woken from the nap that you slipped into when they left for a meeting.

You’ve managed to trap their body heat beneath the blankets, and you wiggle around until you’re facing the other side, staring at the bulletin board, your own face frozen in time staring back at you.

You look different. You look like you’re in a haze of contented bliss, a peaceful state of happiness, safe and secure, tucked between the two of them without a care in the world.

Why did it change? Who changed it? When? How? 

The questions echo as you piece through the last few months in your mind, trying to place where the original seeds of darkness sprouted from, to find where the murky thoughts and feelings really came from, their roots, their birth.

This process, this seeking, makes your hands shake against the sheets. It makes your legs twitch, feet rubbing against each other while your chest tightens. Dread, panic, shame, all twist and turn through your mind, pinpointing your weaknesses and failures, exposing you to yourself like the fool you are.

They’re trying. Are you? 

You don’t need the answers, not truly. You know where the blame lies. You know what happened. You know the part you played; you know the parts the guys played.

You stare at the wall and try to count the patterns in the concrete, willing your brain to focus, willing yourself to pull up, pull out, put your head on straight. The sound of blood rushing in your ears is deafening, loud enough that you think someone may hear it down the hall. May hear you, succumbing to yourself.

It feels like drowning.

They could pull you out. Simon could fix it. They could make it better. 

But would they? Could he, now? When nothing is the same? 

The memory from leaving the hotel ripples across your heart like a familiar melody, acid burning in your calves as you blink and shudder.

Simon, holding your nape, Johnny, holding you to him in the elevator, in the car.

“Stay with us darling. Stay here. With us.”

You wonder if it will ever be the same again.

You hate this one as much as the last. 

Your mouth pulls into a frown, hands resting on your hips as you stare at the canvas in front of you, rotating your head from left to right, like that will make you see it better. Like that will bring it into focus. 

The colors are wrong. They don’t harmonize, they don’t crest and swell together like you had envisioned. They don’t blend in a cacophony of floral silhouettes like you saw in your mind. 

Instead, they look like a storming sea. Darker hues overpowering the light, like thunder through daybreak. 

Maybe you could fix it? Or maybe, you should just abandon this technique. Maybe you could-

There’s a knock at your door. 

It’s not light, or gentle, but firm, ringing out in rapid succession and you jerk. 

Who could that be? You’re not expecting anyone until- 

Oh. Oh no. Oh god. Oh no, no no. 

Your eyes dart frantically around the art room before you're shoving the two brushes from your hands into a tray and tripping out into your living room. 

“Oh my god.” You gulp out loud to no one but yourself, the person who has spent the last three, possibly four days in a haze, a painting binge, trying to escape the stress of your job, of life, of this… thing that’s going on with Simon and Johnny.

Trying to escape yourself. Your thoughts. Your feelings. 

Your flat expresses it well. You think, possibly, it could appear like it had been ransacked. Your clothes are everywhere. Draped over your tiny loveseat couch, shoved between cushions and pillows. Two-day old toast sits on your kitchen counter, accompanying two, three, four coffee mugs that are filled with varying levels of liquid. Your uneaten dinner from last night sits on a plate next to the trash can, your oats from the other morning sit cold in the sink. 

A prescription bottle that hasn’t been touched in four days, lurks on the kitchen counter with a handwritten note taped beneath it: 

“You HAVE to, or you’ll regret it.” 

Another knock sounds at your door, thumping followed by the sound of your phone vibrating next to the stove.

Your left sock has a swipe of chartreuse across it. Your overalls are tacky with dried paint. You can vaguely feel your hands touching your hair, your neck, hovering above where your heart hammers. 

You can’t let them see you like this. 

They’ve never seen you like this. 

This is supposed to be light. It’s fun. It’s… not real. They’re not with you. They cannot see. 

You take a deep breath. 

Maybe you can pass it off. You can… say you’re sorry for the mess, that you’re sorting through things for donation. And you don’t have to lie about painting. That will explain the clothes. 

You take a breath, and then open the door to find Johnny on the other side, happily smiling at you, mohawk shining in the light of the hall. He looks you up and down briefly, and you freeze, waiting. 

Waiting for him to say something nasty, something hurtful. Waiting for him to reprimand you for failing, to accuse you of being useless, helpless. Waiting for him to tell you he doesn’t have time to deal with this. That you should be better, do a better job of taking care of yourself. 

“- and he’ll just be a minute, but we’re so excited, been thinkin’ about ye all week. We had such a good time before we left, really loved sharing those days with you.” What? You blink. He cocks his head. “Love? Y’alright?” 

“Yeah.” You answer, voice monotone. Somewhere, trapped beneath layers and layers of the worst pieces, you’re screaming. You’re aching. You’re desperate. 

“This all paint?” He motions to the splatters and stains, and you nod robotically. “I remember, you mentioned that last time… that you paint. I uh, draw sometimes.” Of course, he draws. Because he’s beautiful, and perfect. He rubs his neck almost sheepishly before raising an eyebrow at you. 

Oh. Right. 

“D-do you… want to come in?” You offer it meekly. Please say no. say no, say you’ll wait out in there, say you don’t want to. 

“Sure, thanks.” Fuck. He steps by you as you motion, brushing against you closely, close enough that the butterflies flutter and you can feel the heat of him. “This is cozy, yeah?” He gestures to your flat from the kitchen, and you nod again. On autopilot.

All you can see is the food, untouched, uneaten. Evidence of your struggle. A water bottle that’s full to brim. The coffee cups, that you couldn’t even bring yourself to wash. All you can feel is your own skin, dry around your mouth, your nose, and oily everywhere else, your dirty clothes heavy against your body. You can feel your teeth, your tongue, unbrushed, unclean in your mouth, jaw clicking while your grind your molars. 

You shouldn’t have let him in. He’s going to see. He’s going to hate you. Hate this. 

The room spins. 

“Hey,” There’s a hand, on your arm. It’s big and soft, and sweet and you blink again. “Darling.” There it is. That pet name. That nick name. That name that’s quickly becoming your own. The one that makes you feel warm, safe, cherished. The one that makes you feel like this is something more. 

You hate it. 

You love it. 

“What is it?” Johnny’s handsome face peers down at you, concern worrying across his brow. 

“N-nothing.” You try to lead him off, but your breathing stutters through your nose, and he looks alarmed. 

There’s a new knock at your door, heavy and quick, and you both turn to look just as Simon is filling the door frame, half of his face hidden with the black mask that he always wears. 

He watches you. Like a predator. His eyes flick from you, to Johnny, to the kitchen… the living room. 

It's like there’s a train sitting on your chest.

“Didn’t mean to keep you waiting.” He says softly, clicking the door shut behind him. As soon as it’s secure, the mask comes off, and he’s focused on you, eyes not leaving your face, moving closer and closer until he’s upon you and Johnny, huge hand coming to hold your elbow. “What’s going on?” He murmurs, but it’s not for you. Even if it was, you cannot answer. There’s a train sitting on your chest, after all. 

“Ah dinnae ken.” Johnny answers immediately, while his palm works up and down your arm in a calming pattern. 

“Darling?” Simon cups your cheek. Ever since he showed you his face, he’s been… like this. Intuitive. Too intuitive. Too keen. Like he already knows. Like he’s been waiting. 

“I-“ you try to tell him it’s nothing. That you’re tired. All of your lies flit through your head, the stories you wanted to concoct to explain everything away but nothing comes out. Not even your breath. 

The room spins again, but this time so does your head. The floor feels like it’s tilting, or maybe it’s your feet that are off balance. You’re not sure. You feel light though, like your legs don’t even exist. Like your knees aren’t real.

“Shite.” Johnny swears, and lunges, hands darting out to catch you before the world goes black. 

“Are you asleep?” There’s a whisper, like a soft touch, against your ear. It’s enough to prickle, enough to crack a smile across your lips, and you press your face into the blankets while strong hands shift your hips.

“I dinnae, might be.” Johnny hums, stroking fingertips down your ribs. It tickles, forcing a breathy giggle from your mouth that’s met with another’s, lips moving with yours while you melt away in a pile of partners and pillows.

“How was the meeting?” You whisper. Simon cradles you to his back, warmth bleeding through his shirt to your skin, and you shimmy closer, pressing hard until you’re flush with him, Johnny watching the two of you with heavy lidded eyes.

“Standard.” Simon answers. “Thought about you the whole time.” He kisses your cheek, arm reaching for Johnny who obliges, nestling himself against your chest. You focus on them, taking long, deep breaths, keeping yourself above water, keeping the murky depths at bay, for now.

It’s better, when they’re here. It’s always better, when you’re together.

“Thinkin’ about ye asleep in our bed, bare cunt on our sheets enough to drive me mad.” Johnny groans, fingers skating across your hip bone. You’re not wearing underwear, just a giant sweatshirt, one of theirs, though you’re not sure who’s.

Lust roars to life between your legs, desire, want, has you clenching, but you try shove it away.

It’s too much, too soon. You’re too… off center. You’ll lose yourself. 

But they’re here. They’ll put you back together. Simon won’t let you fall. 

It’s not a good idea. 

You want it. You want them. Need them. 

The back and forth makes your head hurt.

“I- I’m not ready.” You blurt, and he freezes, pulling his hand free immediately but you grab onto it, desperate to have his touch, to feel him.

Guilt burns in your heart.

“Of course, darling.”

“I’m sorry… I want to I just-“

“You never have to apologize.” Simon rumbles and you shake your head.

“I know but, I feel bad. Guilty.”

“Look at me.” He urges, and you shift, all while clutching Johnny’s hand in yours. “We love you. There is nothing for you to feel guilty about. We will be here when you are ready, but there’s no rush.” He strokes a thumb across your cheek, and you lean into it, eyes slipping closed. “I think I’d be more worried if you were ready to jump right into sex, after everything.” Johnny hums his agreement and presses a warm kiss to your shoulder.

“Let’s take a nap then?” He suggests, and you pull his arm to your chest, rocking between the two of them until you’re effectively sandwiched, comfortable, and secure, just the way you like it.

The way you dream about it.

The way you can only hope it might be, from now until forever.

[bg-brainrot]

The Night They Slept Together

Featuring: Astarion x Rogue!Tav

Series: Fits into Love at First Knife, AO3 link here

Summary: Tav pines, and their relationship with Astarion shifts ever so slightly. (They literally do just sleep)

Tags: 2nd person POV, Gender-Neutral Pronouns, Pining, light hurt and angst, Astarion is Bad at Feelings, coping with feelings, act 2, pre-confession

A/N: some light angst as Tav comes to term with their feelings but we already know where they end up, so it's okay, right? :D

Word count: ~2.1k

--

Your tryst with Astarion should be over by now.

It was supposed to be a one off moment of passion, a way to destress after all of the danger you’d thrown yourselves into. He’d asked so easily, you’d agreed just as readily– a quick celebratory moment after defeating that goblin camp, when your spirits and libido were running high.

The second time? Well, that was easy to write off as well. You’d just fought off an entire creche, moving through it like a pair of practiced assassins, a synchrony you haven’t felt since– well, you’re not certainly you’ve ever felt so in sync with someone. Either way, it was another easy nod to his sly, questioning look. 

You’d had similar excuses for your first night in the Shadow-Cursed Lands, for the handful of midday, afternoon, midnight romps since.

It’s just a way for us to cope with the situation at hand, nothing more, nothing less, you’d told yourself.

That is, until you’d realized that it wasn’t just that. Not to you. 

Oh gods, I love this insane vampire.

The night you’d realized that everything had changed.

What had begun as a distraction for you both, had turned into a poison– one slowly working its way through your system, incapacitating you piece by piece at the thought of another night falling into his arms, sinking deeper into the throes of an impossible love. 

After all, what is this other than convenient? And if you continued to be a mere convenience to him, well, you doubt that this would end well for you. It’s high time that you cut off the source of this poison before it festers too far. Before it grips your vulnerable, aching heart.

That’s what you’d told yourself, but you’re finding it so much harder to cut off the source when he’s standing right in front of you, waiting for you with a smirk toying along the edge of his mouth, an eyebrow raising suggestively as his voice lowers to a sultry invitation. 

You’d come by his tent to say goodnight. Maybe, ‘Good job today.’ Any excuse to see him really, but now you’re met with a challenge.

Astarion’s words don’t make it much easier either.

“Oh my dear, you look positively wound-up after today’s bouts. Care for a little… unwinding?”

His voice drips with promise, with want, with a feeling that echoes through your own traitorous core. But, like a sweet that’s overstayed its welcome, it seems too tacky, hardening into something utterly indigestible.

“Are you sure that’s a good idea?” you ask, eying him carefully, fighting down your own building desires.

“Why shouldn’t it be?” he asks, a raised brow lowering in uncertainty. 

You hesitate, unsure how much truth you’re willing to part with. Certainly not, ‘Because I may have accidentally fallen in love with you.’ And you don’t want to shove him out of your life unceremoniously either. Just… to slow down, allow your heart time to adjust– to get over him, if need be.

After a pause that goes on for a second too long, you finally settle on, “It just seems as if we’ve already had plenty of ‘fun’, don’t you think?”

Astarion’s small smirk drops, a dark look entering his eyes as he registers your words, how they directly counter his own from your first night together. How they fall between you with the full weight of rejection. “Don’t tell me you’ve grown shy now, darling?” he says, voice a bit sharper than what you’re used to.

You’d known that trying to slow down wouldn’t be easy, but his downturned lips make you want to take back your words, dive back into the intoxicating miasma of his cold embrace. But you also know that if you don’t stand your ground now, you’re liable to fall too far too fast.

“Not shy per say,” you respond, measuring your words carefully. “Merely wondering if that’s what you want.”

Astarion seems no more placated by these words than your earlier ones. “And what makes you think I wouldn’t want this?”

Fear born of your heart, insecurity born of your nerves, damned logic born of your head– there are really so many reasons he wouldn’t want this, wouldn’t want you. But you don’t want to be too transparent, not when this adventure could all be over very soon. You say as much.

“Well, our days could be numbered.” Then your lips continue. “Perhaps there is someone else you would rather be unwinding?” The question slips out of you, an unbidden, unwelcome concern courtesy of the fear building in your chest.

“Is that what you want?” he asks, response quick, tone biting. His lips are pressed in a tight line, the muscles in his neck tense as he clenches his jaw.

Gods, you’d known your heart would lead you astray. Here you are, facing an Astarion unlike any that had made a home in your bedroll. An Astarion made of sharp edges and cutting words. Expression closed, mouth a tight line, you find his change in demeanor aggravating. You bristle at his accusation. “No, Astarion. I don’t want that. If I did, I wouldn’t be here, speaking with you. Though you’re making me regret doing that much now.”

He tilts back at your words, leaning back on the heels of his feet as if thrown off balance. “Then why did you even come over? To reject me then to–to taunt me?”

You had meant to do none of that. Really, you’d only come over out of habit, to see him, to… spend time with him. But it’s hard to say so without being entirely too forthcoming with your feelings. You wish that you could put your feelings into words, however it’s your burden to bear, not his. He has more than enough on his plate between the Absolute and Raphael’s deal. 

So you shake your head at him. “I didn’t mean to reject you, Astarion. I hadn’t come here for sex at all.”

Once more, he asks the question you do not want to answer. “Then why did you even come over?”

You could lie. It’s as easy as breathing for you– it’s how you and Astarion had grown so close so quickly. You should lie, you tell yourself. But one look into his crimson, pleading eyes and the lie dies on your lips.

He looks hurt. So genuinely confused at your presence in front of him, deeply convinced that you could only be here for one thing and one thing only. And you know then that you can’t lie.

“I wanted to see you,” you say, the honest words tightening your throat on their way out, You haven’t told him how you feel, but you may as well have, with the way the words sound utterly, sinfully soft, a secret lost on the cold wind of the Shadow-Cursed night.

“You… wanted to see me?” he repeats, tone losing all of its edge, losing any of its structure at all.

You nod silently, uncertain if more words would help or hurt the situation.

To that, Astarion only blinks. His mouth opens, head tilting in that cautiously inquisitorial way, as he asks, “And then what?”

There was no ‘and then’ in your mind. Merely the need to see him, spend time with him, even after spending an entire dark, dreary day with him. But you suppose he wouldn’t understand that if you said it. So you need to come up with something concrete, a reason to be here beyond words…

“I was wondering if you wanted to share a bedroll tonight. To sleep,” you say, infusing enough confidence in your words that you can hardly note the nerves. You expect Astarion wouldn’t notice them at all. 

His defenses noticeably drop, his shoulders sagging in relief, and a sigh escapes him as he shakes his head at you wryly. “Well, why didn’t you just say so, darling? I understand that not everyone has my stamina, but it’s nothing to be ashamed of.”

You want to roll your eyes, defend your honor as it hangs on by a thread, but you’ve narrowly avoided disaster and you’re not proud enough to ruin that. Instead you play into the role, ignoring the dull twinge that twists through your heart. “I wasn’t sure you would be so magnanimous,” you say, giving him the slightest bow of your head. “I should have known.”

“That you should have,” he says with a breathy laugh and he sounds almost… relieved?

More than anything, you want to ask him, why? Are you relieved that my feelings have stayed silent? That this thing between us remains uncomplicated? That you don’t have to find yourself a new distraction?

But your questions stay just as buried as your feelings do.

Your damnable feelings, which seem to threaten to burst out each time his eyes linger too long, with every touch you weren’t expecting. It must be a talent, holding them in as you do now.

They stay hidden as he extends a hand to you, inviting you into his tent with a warm smile and a, “Shall we?”

You keep them dormant as you follow, tucking your head into the now-familiar red structure, narrowly avoiding the mess he’s left inside. 

They almost slip to the surface as he pulls you down onto his lap, and a heat rises between you as natural as steam from a hot spring.

It’s an invitation, of course. One last effort from Astarion for something more tonight, for you to be won over by his beauty and charm. But there’s nothing to be won over because you are already his.

You wish he could tell, from your drunken declarations, from the way you’ve made a second home in his arms. Maybe he can tell, but refuses to acknowledge it– you could hardly blame him if that were to be the case. But you also can’t blame yourself for barely holding back.

Even now, seated in his lap, staring into his mesmerizing red eyes, you’re not certain you could trust a single word that comes out of your lips. So you throw every word you’ve ever known, could ever know, to the wayside. And simply kiss him.

You press your lips to his slowly, contact feather-light as you balance on his thighs. Bracing yourself with a hand on his chest, you lean in, locking your lips together fully. 

They move together easily, dance partners on a familiar dance floor, to a practiced tune, but when you think of all of the things you wish you could say, an urgency rises in you– a deep-seated need to tell him how you feel, even if only through this.

So you kiss him harder, your hands holding him all the tighter. You kiss him with every word unspoken, every intangible feeling rising in your chest, every single ounce of you that he’s already won, if only he were willing to claim it.

Astarion moves to deepen the kiss, placing a hand on the back of your head, the other on the small of your back, not understanding where your desperation comes from. Misunderstanding your intent altogether. 

Of course, what was I thinking? you wonder to yourself as you pull away, panting lightly. That some magical kiss could make this man realize my feelings, could make him love me back?

But you’re not in some copper novel. This man harbors no hidden feelings for you. Only a deep need to lose himself, and you happen to be the person he’s chosen to do that with.

So, despite the confusion in his face, you crawl off of his lap. Despite the way his hand trails along your side as you lay down, you don’t get back up. You merely say, “It’s getting late, we should get some rest.”

Astarion murmurs his agreement, but you can hear the reluctance in his tone, see the bewildered expression on his face as he lies down, all of his clothing still covering his body. 

You could laugh at the absurdity of it all, how unnerved he is, how deeply your chest aches– gods, this didn’t go well at all. But you don’t laugh. Only a sigh escapes you as you wrap your arms around him, as you press your body to his with all of the affection you cannot contain.

His arms stumble, they falter, but they find their way around you as well. An awkward embrace from a man who has no clue how he’s arrived at this point.

It’s difficult at a moment like this to remember that you shouldn’t love this man. That there are a dozen reasons to tamp down your feelings, a dozen more to run away. This was never supposed to be more than a single night of fun.

But, face tucked into the crook of his neck, hands clutching his loose shirt, nose filled with his carefully curated scent– you can almost pretend that this is real.

[phoward89]

Series Masterlist

Chapter 3:

“You can't work here anymore, Y/N. You're fired.” You heard your boss, Doula Ada, tell you as soon as you said goodbye to Coryo (who was on morning patrol duty again) and entered the apothecary shop.

Your face fell. Fired?... “But why? I've been doing everything you've told me to.” You asked Doula Ada as she crushed up some herbs, to make a salve or remedy of some sort, with her mortar and pestle.

“With Belladonna's upcoming marriage to Juris, well, she needs to be working with me. I just don't have the room for two apprentices.”

“But I was the top of my class in the school and you said-” You began to protest, only for the older woman to shush you with a sharp-tongued, “I said I don't got no need for you anymore girl. Now go home or go find yourself a man to take care of ya.”

Taken aback by the herb woman’s brusque behavior, you quickly made your way to the door and exited the apothecary shop. Unknown to you, Coryo was waiting in the wind to swoop in and be your hero. To walk you home and be your shoulder to cry on.

Even though he's the reason you're fired and crying in the first place.

But to him that doesn't matter. It's just a small, minor detail that's not important. One that you'll never find out about, that's for sure.

Just as you were making your way down the cobblestone street, apothecary book tucked under you arm, a looming presence appeared by your side, towering over you. But by the long, lean shadow swallowing up yours, you knew it could only be Coryo. He is, after all, the tallest man you know.

“What's wrong, darling? Why're you leaving the apothecary shop after just arriving?” The platinum blonde peacekeeper asked.

Despite already knowing what was wrong, he wanted to seem like he was concerned about your plight. He was, after all, your man and a good man always takes time out of his busy schedule to check on his girl; to see what's wrong with her. He was just doing what any proper Capitol raised young gentleman would do, inquire about their special lady friend.

Looking up at your new friend, tears brimming your beautiful eyes, you told him, “Doula Ada fired me because she doesn't have room for both me and her daughter, Belladonna, to work at the shop.”

“Oh, my little dove, don't cry. It'll be alright.” Coryo assured you, as your tears began to fall, while pulling you into a hug.

And that embrace sure did make people stop and stare. The folks could understand a peacekeeper taking up with a merchant class girl while serving their 20 years in the district, but what they couldn't wrap their heads around was why a peacekeeper would lower themselves by getting involved with a Seam girl. People from the Seam were poor. So poor that they couldn't afford the second or in the word poor.

The Seam was considered the lowest of the low of District 12, the bottom of the barrel. So, a peacekeeper openly embracing a Seam girl and in the middle of the Merchant's Sector was considered taboo. A district blasphemy of sorts.

He kissed your forehead, causing the baker to nearly have a stroke from where she was peeking out of her shop window. And when he smiled wide and bright at you, the butcher nearly cut a finger off as he spied out his shop’s large front window.

“How ‘bout you help me with my patrol, darling? Walk with me for a bit, yeah?” Coryo suggested, craving a moment with you by his side. You're just so sweet, so kind, and he needs you- needs that around him. He wants to show you off to the entire district, let them see how he can cheer up his girl just by being by your side.

He truly was a bit off his rocker in love with you, but you had no clue about that. All you saw when you looked at him was the prettiest boy you've ever seen in your life, with a brilliant pearly white smile, who seems to go out of his way to befriend you. Something that you thought was sweet.

“I dunno, Coryo. I don't wanna get you in trouble.”

“You won't.” He quickly told you, wanting to chase away any fears you had of strolling around the Merchant Sector with him for a bit.

He really wanted to spend time with you, since he wouldn't be able to see you until he got a day off or his next weekend pass. Coriolanus felt that the more time he spent with you, the more in love the two of you would become. Yea…he was a bit of a clingy, stalkery, obsessive, possessive, delusional romantic. But at least he was a romantic, right?

Coriolanus hasn't seen you in 3 days, 3 damn days, and it's driving him crazy. The last time he saw you, you walked with him for a little bit while he was on patrol and it was heaven. You two talked and laughed about nothing and everything. But the best thing about that stroll was everyone in the Merchant's Sector saw the two of you together.

Something that made Coriolanus' possessive and obsessive tendencies towards you soar happily. He was proud to show you off as his girl; his future wife. He couldn't wait to dote on you; take care of you.

Coriolanus was raised that proper Capitol gentlemen take care of their women, support them and love them. That a good Capitol man spoils his girl; doesn't let her lift a finger. That a gentleman will keep his woman in the lap of luxury; will do all the work so that she doesn't have too. That all she does is have to worry about looking pretty, attending social events, and pleasing her man.

Of course, there's women in the Capitol that choose to have careers, but more women are socialites and housewives. And that's what Coriolanus plans to mold you into. His loving, kind, housewife; his little socialite that he'll spoil til the day he dies.

Only problem is that he's a peacekeeper grunt. His pay’s acceptable for a comfortable life in the backwater district of 12, but it's nothing to write home about. He knew that to properly take care of you; support you, that he needed to rise in the Peacekeeper ranks. That he needed to become an officer.

So, that's why he signed up to take the upcoming officers aptitude test. Coriolanus wanted to better himself not just for his need to get back to the Capitol, but also for his need to take care of you. He needed to be successful and have a good paycheck to take care of you the way you deserved. He wanted to spoil you, buy you your heart’s desires, and the only way to do that was with money.

Coriolanus was excited to tell you about his upcoming officers exam. He was hoping that the news would impress you; assure you that he's worthy of supporting you.

Talk about impressions, Coriolanus was currently buttoning up the jacket of his dress uniform as he stood in front of the small communal mirror in the barracks. Sejanus, his bunkmate and, for a lack of a better word, friend, just stared at him like he'd just lost his marbles.

Opening up his footlocker and grabbing a few bucks, Sejanus looked at Coryo, and asked, “Why're you wearing that for, Coryo? We're about to go off base with weekend passes, shouldn't you be in your fatigues?”

Coriolanus walked over to his bunk, only to grab his hat and pick up a small sack. “I'm wearing my dress uniform, Sejanus, because I'm spending the weekend with my girl and I want to make a good first impression on her family.”

“Uh…I don't think Lucy Gray and the Covey care about that.” The District 2 born peacekeeper told his friend, watching as the man slung his sack over his shoulder.

“That songbird 's not my girl. My girl's a sweet little dove.” The platinum blonde remarked while placing his dress hat on his head, completing the dashing look his dress uniform gave off.

“Oh…but I thought you liked Lucy Gray?” Sejanus pried, holding his weekend pass in his hand while crossing the room with his friend.

“But I love Y/N; I'm going to make her my darling wife.”

Sejanus forced a smile, one that didn't quite reach his eyes, as he patted Coryo on the shoulder. “That's good, Coryo.” In fact, the broad man didn't think it was good at all. He thought it was a bit concerning that his friend had waved off any and all feelings he had for a girl he risked everything to save, only to take up with an entirely different girl- declare intentions of love and marriage too.

Maybe Capitol born and bred people were just wired differently than different folks. Who knows. But Sejanus did know that all of his efforts looking for Lucy Gray were for nothing. At least he made some rebel contacts, some friends that supported a cause he believes in.

Bringing down Panem and the Games; having unity, justice, fair treatment, and human decency for all no matter if they're District or Capitol.

“I'd be honored to be your best man, when the time comes.” Sejanus told Coriolanus as they exited the barracks.

Like hell Coriolanus was going to have Sejanus stand up next to him as his first man. He didn't plan on having a lowly wedding in the districts, but a grand affair in the Capitol. His delusional Grandma’am would have a stroke if he had Sejanus Plinth as his best man. He supposed he can ask Festus Creed to be his best man, or maybe not even have one at all. Nothing says that he has to have one.

Coriolanus knows that you most likely won't have a maid of honor, unless he charms Clemmie into doing it. Eh, he'll worry about that whenever he's back in the Capitol, planning the wedding with you. At least he knows that Tigris will be more than happy to design your wedding dress.

But now's not the time to worry about that. First, he needs to meet your family and pass that officer's test.

The poor residents of the Seam were staring at Coriolanus with fearful and strange looks. It wasn't common to see a peacekeeper decked out in their dress uniform walking the streets of the Seam. No, the only time peacekeepers came to the Seam was to topple houses doing random checks to look for contraband and rebel literature, also to round up residents and cart them off to the prison on the base- never to be seen again until it was time to send them swinging on the hanging tree.

So…

Safe to say, residents of the Seam were both leery and mind blown at the sight of Coriolanus in their section, walking down the street as if he owned it. Both young and old alike silently prayed that the peacekeeper wouldn’t bother anyone.

If only they knew the real reason Coriolanus was in the Seam. Oh wait a minute, everybody in the Seam’s about to find out soon enough…

When Coriolanus reached your house, a large smile spread across his face. He couldn't wait to see you. He's gone too long without seeing your beautiful face, your kind smile.

Yea…

Three days is such an eternity…

Walking up the creaky wood rot porch and over to your front door, Coryo missed the neighbor girl, a songbird, exiting her house and seeing him. She saw his profile and instantly recognized him; was ready to call out to him, but stopped herself whenever you answered your door, causing the finely dressed peacekeeper to scoop you up into a hug and press a peck to your lips.

The little songbird shook her head, only to take off towards the meadow with her guitar in hand- she couldn't bear to watch the happy exchange between her neighbor and the Capitol boy turned peacekeeper- who she once thought was a good man.

Ashlie was making dough for a simple fry bread (all that your family could afford to make with the sorry excuse of grain that you're able to acquire) and you had just pulled a wildberry pie out of the oven, setting it on the windowsill to cool, whenever a loud knock sounded at the front door.

“Y/N, go get the door!” Your brother called out from his armchair, where he was already a jar and a half in of moonshine during his only day off.

You quickly went to the door and opened it, only to smile as you saw Coryo standing in front of you. He was dressed up in his formal uniform, sack slung over his shoulder and hand full of flowers (a small bouquet made up of a couple roses and some wildflowers native to District 12). Before you could even say hi or invite him in, Coryo pecked you on the lips (stunning you a bit) and wrapped you in a tight, but warm hug.

Resting his chin on top of your head, he confessed, “I missed you, my sweet darling girl.”

“You missed me? But it's only been 3 days since we saw each other.” You told him, finding it a bit odd that your new friend misses you so much after such a short period of time. Was that normal, or was that a Capitol thing? Or was it because he wanted more?

But you didn't want to give your hopes up. You just met; became friends the other day. Besides, a boy like Coryo Snow- pretty with his chiseled jaw, platinum blonde hair, and crystal blue eyes- always fancied themselves sweet on girls like Lucy Grey or Belladonna (the exotic Covey beauty and a flaxen haired merchant girl). Boys like him never gave girls like you, girls from the Seam, a second glance.

“Yea, 3 days too long.” He retorted, burying his nose into your hair to breathe in your scent. A scent that seemed to smell like fresh blooms and vanilla. Reluctantly pulling away from you, he offered you the small bouquet. “If we were in the Capitol, I would've made you a bouquet from the roses my Grandma’am grows in her rooftop garden.”

“These are nice, tho, Coryo.” You assured him with a kind smile while taking the offered flowers.

Coryo fell even more in love with you, watching you take the bouquet (which he felt was a pathetic thing compared to what he'd be able to give you in the Capitol) with a smile. His heart swelled as he watched you smell the flowers, your nose lingering at the couple of roses he demanded the florist stick into the bunch of wildflowers.

Yes, you'd flourish and grow in the Capitol. With his love and tender care, he'll turn you into a prized rose. His darling rose that everyone will envy, but only he has. A rose that he'll love; who'll love him in return.

Coryo knows that, sooner rather than later, he's going to gift you his mother's shawl and her compact. As a way to show his love and commitment to you. But also to mold you into what he knows you're meant to be.

His perfect, sweet, kind, darling rose. His wife who'll comfort him and love him during good times and bad. The mother of his children who'll sing to them and nurture them.

“I'm glad that you like them, darling, but you do deserve better flowers and, once I pass my officers exam, I'll be able to afford them for you.”

“You're taking an officer's exam? When, Coryo?”

“Next week.” Coriolanus proudly said, his baby blues shining with joy.

Before you could say another word or invite Coryo in, your older brother, Rein, appeared behind you with his half-empty jar of moonshine in his hand. Tipping his jar towards your ‘friend’ he asked in a deep grumble, “This officer bothering you, sis?”

“No, Rein.” You shook your head. Looking between your older brother and the blonde peacekeeper, you announced, “This is Coryo, a new friend of mine.”

Your brother's Seam grey eyes grew into the size of saucers. He looked between you, the flowers you were holding, Coryo, and the sack slung over his shoulder.

Coryo, wanting to make a good impression with his future brother-in-law, stuck his hand out for a handshake and politely said, “Sir, I'm Private Coriolanus Snow, of the esteemed Capitol Snow family. I'm scheduled to take the officer's aptitude test next week and, I assure you, my intentions with your sister are nothing, but honorable.”

Of course his intentions are honorable, the man wants to marry you. Take you back to the Capitol with him and fill you up with his babies. Oh, and not exactly in that order either. But, nevertheless, Coriolanus wants to make you Mrs. Snow; one day First Lady Snow.

Your brother looked at Coryo's large, calloused, outstretched hand and then turned his eyes up to his face. Rein had a mask of indifference painted on his dark, stubble coated face as he pointed his mason jar at Coryo and gruffly said, “Fuck you.”, before pivoting on his heel and storming back to his chair- all the while shouting, “My stupid fucking sister’s taking up with that dead General Crassus Snow’s fuckbag son, Ashie!”

You heard something break in the house and your heart dropped into the pit of your stomach. Your sister-in-law (well, she was your brother's girlfriend, but same thing at this point since they've been together for so long) was so startled by your brother's outburst that she broke something the family can't afford to break. And your brother's reaction to your new friend was horrible.

The things he said…

Oh no, how embarrassing and cruel.

Frantically you apologized, afraid that Coryo would up and leave over your brother's nasty greeting, “Coryo, I'm so sorry for what Rein said. He shouldn't have said that, any of it.”

“Well, I admit, Y/N, that I was hoping to make a better impression on your brother, but I'm not going to let his little outburst chase me away from my darling girl.” Coriolanus told you, his attitude unwavering, as he placed his hands on your shoulders- gently rubbing them in a soothing manner.

Picking up on the phrase ‘my darling girl's, your brain suddenly put two and two together. Coryo wanted more than friendship, it seems. “Your girl, but I thought you just wanted to be friends?” You asked, just to make sure that your sudden revelation was right.

“I'm going to be a peacekeeper here for the next 20 years, Y/N. Of course, you're my girl. I don't want to be alone here, plus once I become an officer-” Coryo began to say, only for Ashlie to pop up and interrupt him with, “Um, can you two not discuss any future plans right now? Rein's upset enough as it is and, Y/N, I need you to help me with the dry bread.”

“Okay.” You sighed while at the same time Coriolanus said, “Like it or not, Ma’am, I'm not going anywhere. In fact, I'm staying here, in your home, with my darling rose for my weekend leave.”

“On the other hand, why don't you two talk a walk; go to the nearby meadow or something? Then you can meet up with me and Rein at the hob tonight.” Ashlie suggested, yanking the flowers out of your hand and ushering you out the door and slamming it shut behind you before either you or Coryo could say a word.

Well, looks like his plan to impress your family failed. But at least he impressed you, and really that's all the truly matters. As long as his lover's impressed then he couldn't give a flying fuck about the Halvir family. They could fuck off; go take a walk to the hanging tree for all he cared.

Coryo impressed you, made you smile with love and pride when you saw him in his uniform and, truly, that's the only thing that's important to him right now. That you view him as a hero.

Even tho in reality he's the anti-hero and your family knows it.

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[bloodynereid]

Strangers in the Night

pairing: major john 'bucky' egan x fem! reader

tw: ok it's sad, it has a really sad ending sry, mentions of war, alcohol mentions, kissing, historical inaccuracies (probably)

description: love was just a glance away, a warm embracing dance away.

a/n: hi so... i unintentionally wrote this like that one frank sinatra song that it's named after. i swear i literally didn't even think of it until i had to title this thing and yet it fit perfectly. i think my frank sinatra phase i had as a kid had something to do with it but whatever... anyways i think timeline wise this is before bucky's first mission and during the first few days he's in the uk. i hope you enjoy and lmk your thoughts!

Running a hand down your face you take a deep breath and relax into the pub’s atmosphere. The bustling of the crowd, a mix of men in uniforms and beautiful women, captivated your tired eyes. 

You were seated in the dark corner of the pub, exhausted by the constant workload war pushed your way. The sharp sting of whiskey in your mouth was a reminder that you were human and that you were still alive, at least for now.

The pub had become a place of escape, even if it was only for a few hours. You almost never left with anyone, preferring to people watch and take slow sips of expensive whiskey. 

“Now what do we have here? A beautiful lady without a partner is a true tragedy.” 

A shadow fell over the booth you were seated in. You looked up to find a set of stormy eyes staring down at you, there was a certain mischievous twinkle in them that seemed to captivate you. So instead of huffing and pushing the man away like you would usually, your mouth involuntarily twitched into a smile.

“Are you my prince charming who sweeps me off my feet and steals me away?”

“Only if the lady insists.” 

You laugh at his remark and offer your hand for him to shake, giving the curly haired man your name in the process. But instead of shaking your hand like you had intended, he took it carefully and placed a fleeting kiss on your knuckles.

“Major John Egan, but you can call me Bucky, sweetheart.” Bucky took a seat next to you in the booth and placed his own glass tumbler filled with whiskey on the table.

“Well at least I know you have good taste, Major.” You said with a teasing lilt in your voice when you noticed the liquor.

“Oh I have the best taste in the entire air force, sweetheart, and don’t you deny it.” Bucky said as leaned closer to you and grinned. The smile sent a bout of butterflies through your body. 

“Now tell me, what exactly are you doing here all alone?”

“A lady can’t just enjoy a strong whiskey after a long day?”

“No fault in that, darling. I’m just astounded that no one has come to ask you to dance quite yet.”

“Well…” You crooked your finger forward, urging Bucky into your space, as if you were about to tell him a big secret. “Maybe I just haven’t found the right partner yet.”

Bucky smiled right back at you and brushed his knuckles against your cheek. Leaning forward so your noses were almost brushing he said:

“You’re looking at him right now, darling.”

“Oh really?” You whispered back. He hums back in assent before abruptly pulling away, taking a deep swig of his whiskey and offering his hand to you.

“Shall we?”

“I would be delighted, good sir.” You said in a ridiculous accent that had you both laughing as you slipped your hand into his and Bucky quickly pulled you up and into his arms.

The soft jazz music surrounded you, the air was tense with an unknown crackling electricity. Bucky’s warm hands held you close and you let yourself just feel. It was as if the world fell away and you were the last ones standing.

“How long are you stationed here, Major?” You asked tentatively, almost afraid to break the energy between you.

“I’m going to be here a long while, darling.”

“We might see each other again then.”

“You bet we will.” Bucky said as he placed a quick, fleeting kiss on your forehead. A warmth spread through your body which made you feel like you were floating.

“Good.”

“Good.” He echoed back to you and smiled widely at you. His hands left your body and you both stopped swaying to the music. Bucky brought his thumb up and brushed away an eyelash from your face.

“Make a wish?” You laugh and close your eyes, wishing that this beautiful man would finally just kiss you. 

“What did you wish for?” He asked once you blew away the eyelash from his thumb.

“Can’t say or it won’t happen.” You teased, making Bucky look at you in admiration. He carefully brought his hand back to your face, cradling it as if it were a work of priceless art. His eyes quickly moved from your eyes to your lips, a movement almost too quick for you to catch.

“Can I kiss you?” He breathed out. You nodded almost imperceptibly, making Bucky surge forward and press his lips to yours. Your eyes fluttered close and you let the world fall away from you once more so all you could feel was him.

The night ended with Bucky walking you back to the place you were staying and kissing you once again with a passion and adoration you had never experienced before. You would have invited him in if it wasn’t for the load of work that awaited you in the early hours of the next morning.

What neither of you realized was that your superiors would transfer you to Scotland the next day. You didn’t even have the time to send a telegram to the base before you were swept away.

Bucky spent his nights in that same little corner of the pub waiting for you to show up, never once catching a glimpse of you again. Almost as if you had been a ghost. Even after Buck arrived and he was surrounded by friends, Bucky never forgot about that beautiful girl from that first night. Her glinting eyes that looked like stars that fell from the heavens, and the gorgeous smile which had entranced him so.

After the war, Bucky left for America and you were both left only with ‘what ifs’ and memories of sweet kisses laced with whiskey. 

[descendantofthesparrow]

Can't stop this feeling - Harry Hook x reader- SMUT FIC- P7

SMUT FIC-MINORS DNI- All ‘important’ characters are 18+!

warning; not a smutty part really, its more of a neverland chapter but (y/n) and Harry get each other off with their hands but that's bout it XD

=

April had arrived, and Harry’s birthday had come with it, meaning something very special for the both of you.

Harry’s eyes were practically squeezed shut as he stepped through the portal that led directly into the heart of Neverland, his hand clutching onto yours as the sound of twinkling bells, an ocean breeze, and lost boys enveloped his senses. “Harry,” you called his name softly, stepping in front of him and squeezing his hand, smiling at him as he fluttered his eyes open, keeping his gaze on you. “look around,” he did, his eyes widening as he took in the sight around him.

“Holy shit,” Harry breathed, stepping away from the portal and spinning around to see everything, he never thought he would ever see Neverland, maybe in pictures but-to see it with his own eyes, to step foot on its magical soil. “i-holy shit,”

You laughed slightly, stepping back to let Harry experience this all on his own, bringing your hands up to smile behind them, biting your lip as Harry shook his head, running his hand through his hair. “I cannot believe I’m ‘ere,” Harry muttered, his face set into a heartbreaking softness with tears in his eyes. “holy shit,”

You let him have a few more moments and then offered your hand, nodding towards the path that led to Mermaid Lagoon. “You ready?” Harry stared, biting his lip. The two of you had talked about going to Mermaid Lagoon, to visit your mother(his mother’s best friend from years ago) and to unlock the rest of Harry’s Mer-biology. Right now he had opal-like scales and gills, but no tail or color, but once he submerged into the neverland waters-he would finally gain his color and tail.

Harry took a deep breath, and took your hand, nerves consuming him as you walked towards the beach-the sound of waves soon overtaking the sound of the forest. He froze at the sight of the water that in itself, seemed magical-separate from the rest of the land. “I don’t know if I can do this,” Harry said, not sure this was a good idea anymore. “what if they hate me?” his voice cracked and you turned, taking his face and kissing him gently, easing his nerves slightly.

“They won't,” you whispered softly, you had sent a message months ago, right after the cruise had ended-and your mother had been very very eager to meet Harry-her best friend's son. It didn’t matter his origin or who his father was-Harry was a piece of Iris, and the pod would accept him with open arms. “I promise,”

Harry bit his inner lip and let you take his hand again, pulling him towards the small shore/cliff that led into the lagoon, grinning as you saw your family, most of them hanging out on the pink-toned rocks and the others swimming or hunting.

“Oh-Arella, it’s (y/n)! darling come here my beautiful, let me look at you~” your aunt Coral cooed, holding out her hands to you as she swam close to the shore, pushing herself up on the rock as you let Harry hang back and set your bag down-meeting your aunt halfway and letting her hold your face, laughing as she turned your face this way and that-humming in approval. “Still so darling-oh my-is this-“

She squealed, admiring your opal jewelry and mate mark on your neck, a grin blooming on your face. “Oh darling! you’ve bonded!” all the present members of your pod cooed and screeched, chattering and clicking in mermish as they rushed up to you, admiring your gifts from Harry and looking closer at the bite mark he left.

You lifted your head in pride, smiling down at your family, your mother’s eyes on Harry, who hung back in the shadow’s, still very unsure of all of this. Neverland? Cool, cool, mermaid lagoon where his mother had been born, raised, and stolen from? Not as cool, he was nervous and terrified as all hell, scared someone would hate him for his father’s actions against his mother.

Your mother called your name gently, keeping her eyes on Harry. You hummed, pulling away from your aunts and walking over to her, taking off your shoes as you did. “Yes mama?” you asked, crouching next to her as she came up to the shore and looking where she was, grinning when you saw Harry.

“Is that him?” she asked, trying to get a better look at the son of her late best friend. You nodded, standing and holding out your hand to him. “C’mon,” you said gently, grinning as he stepped out of the shadows and walked over to you, his cheeks blazing and his shoulders tense, terrified. “mama, this is Harry, Iris’ son, and my bonded mate.”

It was quiet for a moment, Harry’s eyes stayed on you, too scared to look anywhere else. They hated him, he knew it, he should just leave-he really should. But then he felt a hand in his and he turned-locking eyes with your mother. She was smiling, tears in her eyes. “You look just like her,” she whispered, shaking her head and laughing in disbelief, Harry just stared, squeezing your hand. “oh young one, welcome home.” In one motion, she pulled Harry down for a hug and everyone else swam over to greet him-all commenting on his resemblance to Iris, not once mentioning Harry’s father. He could only understand half of them-the others speaking mermish, but he smiled at you, his fears disappearing in an instant.

You grinned down at him, mouthing ‘I told you so’. He just laughed, turning back to your mother as she chatted away, telling him all about his mother-how she had always wanted children, especially a son. Harry eventually sat down, his feet dangling in the water, his opal scales being poked and prodded by the younger mers swimming around-asking why he had such scales.

“He needs to go into the waters deary, then his colors will be revealed,” one of the mothers said, pulling her child away from Harry-who was chuckling at the feeling of his foot being grabbed and moved around. You had gone into the water at this point, swimming around with your mother and talking, telling her how you got together and how you discovered you were soulmates(leaving out all the nsfw details), she very much approved, and the two of you went back to Harry-who was given your mothers blessing.

He might’ve cried a little, you wouldn’t tell anyone though.

Soon enough, Harry was in his swim trunks, standing a few feet away from the water’s edge, fiddling with his hands nervously. “What if it doesn’t work?” he asked, truly wanting to take your hands and take that risk, but the fear he wouldn’t turn kept him rooted on the shore.

You just smiled, tilting your head. “Then it doesn’t, it won’t change a thing.” Harry sighed, wading into the water, taking your hand when he got close enough, feeling everyone’s eyes on him as he got deeper into the lagoon. “Ready?” you asked, holding your mate tightly as his feet left the rocks that connected to the shore-now suspended in the water.

Harry nodded, unable to speak, and closed his eyes, the two of you sinking under the surface. You couldn’t keep the grin off your face nor could you stop the squeal that left you as Harry’s scales bloomed with color, a brilliant blue that matched his eyes and shimmered under the sunlight that beamed through the surface of the water.

You held his hands as his legs turned to a tail, his fin sharp and long-the trait of an attack Mer; the same as his mother. His nails grew sharp, and his knuckles were armored along with his shoulders, elbows, and forearms-allowing him more power behind his attacks. His eyes snapped open-his pupil now angled and shimmering with new magic; he gasped; his fangs now fully shown off. “There you go,” you cooed, kissing the corner of his mouth as Harry looked down at himself, a laugh of disbelief escaping him.

“holy thit,” he muttered, now having a lisp thanks to his new fangs. You laughed, swimming around him-still holding his hand, admiring your beautiful mate, his dark hair complimenting his ocean tail and eyes-just like his mother.

Your mother said as such and Harry teared up, his cheeks flushing and blending into his cheek scales, blubbering a bit as you hugged him-giggling as he pushed his face into your neck. Harry admired his tail, flailing his arms a bit as he sank, clutching onto you as you grabbed him and hauled him back up.

“Need ta get used to your tail eh?” one of your uncles laughed, teasing the new Mer of the pod. Harry flushed, pouting a bit, admiring your tail as you swam around him-showing him how to move his new muscles. “Why doeth me tail look thso different from yerths?” Harry asked, gesturing between his sharp fins and your fins-which flowed like thin fabric-but was just as powerful as his.

“Genetics…and we’re different types of mers, I’m a lure Mer, aka a pretty one that lures prey to their death, think a beta fish-and you’re an attack Mer-the one who hunts and takes down the prey we lure,” You explained, some of the younger mers swimming up and helping Harry learn how to swim with his new tail-taking his hands and holding them up in front of his head.

“you-you gotta use your hands like a guide,” Mira said, sticking his tongue out of his mouth and shoving his bright white hair out of his face-showing Harry what he meant. Harry nodded, taking the kid's advice seriously and following their movements, grinning at you when he successfully swam with his tail. “love! Did ye thsee-I did it!” you giggled, zooming over to him and twirling him around, your tail grazing his face-his cheeks a bright red.

“You did,” you cooed, swimming just above him and kissing him gently, ignoring the gags and squeaks from the kids around you. The older mers cooed and talked among each other-while you guided Harry around, holding his hands the entire time while he learned to swim.

“ith’s heavier than I thought it would be,” Harry muttered, wiggling his hips a bit, landing on a rock and messing with his tail, rubbing his thumbs against his scales. You just hummed, lying next to and around him, propping your head on your hand. “thso-ith anymore of my human anatomy changed with thith?” Harry asked, gesturing to himself.

You hummed, pursing your lips in thought, reaching up and tapping his ear-which was still rounded like a human, unlike your pointed ears. Some things went unaltered, like his ears, and he had a belly button-something you only had in human form. He felt his ear, his eyes drawing to yours, the top half covered in scales-unlike his-his were still human and his scales stopped at his tragus.

“Not really sure what didn’t and didn’t change, suppose that will be something we’ll discover together,” you mumbled, feeling down his arm and curling your hand into his, smiling at the warmth you felt. He squeezed your hand, smiling, feeling so goddamn happy-he was so glad he took this chance. Never in his wildest dreams would he ever of thought of getting a tail, getting a wonderful mate, or even go to Neverland-but he was here, with you, surrounded by his newfound family.

He was happy-so fucking happy.

He turned, grabbing your face and kissing you with every thought and feeling that was going through him right now, smiling against your lips as you giggled into the kiss and wrapped your arms around his neck-pulling back suddenly at the whistles and cheers he heard from your family. Harry blushed furiously, the red blending into his scales as he held you close, smiling as you continued to laugh, your fingers dancing across his cheeks and shoulders.

He was so happy.

-

He lay on your bed later that day, the sun disappearing behind the horizon, his hair drifting up and around with the push of the water encasing him comfortably. His eyes were closed, sleep creeping up at the back of his mind-everything slowly began to slip away, your head on his chest with your arms tossed over his chest. You were still awake, tracing the edges of his bright blue scales with the tips of your fingers-once in a while sending shivers down his spine.

He peered up at you as you moved above him-your hair flowing around you as you did so, your hands suddenly on his cheeks as you looked down at him with such adoration it made him want to cry. “Hi,” Harry whispered, voice deep with sleep. You smiled, leaning down and pecking his lips, whispering against them as you pulled back. “Hello,” you said, your lips traveling across his face, the corner of his lips, his jaw, his nose, his cheekbones, his eyes, his brows, anywhere you could reach.

Harry had never felt so loved.

His hands found the curve of your back, trailing the beginning of the fin that protruded from your back, sighing against your lips as they met his again. He felt your hands in his hair and he felt dizzy, warmth bursting in his chest as his hands traveled your skin, brushing against your scales, feeling your warmth he still wondered how he hadn’t noticed until that fateful day almost half a year ago. It amazed Harry that time had gone by so quickly, it almost seemed like a dream-that cruise.

But he wouldn’t trade the time for anything in the world.

Not if it meant losing you.

Harry let out a shuddering breath as your lips traveled down his jaw, your teeth gently pressing against his neck-brushing over his bond mark. He breathed your name and your lips were on his again, hotter than before, hungry. Your hands pulled at his hair, trailing down his neck until you held his face, heat traveled down his body, and shivers erupted across his skin.

He gasped against your lips as one of your hands went down-brushing against his chest and finding the spot where-in his human body-his dick would be. Harry’s head dropped back with a choked gasp as your fingers slipped into something-a slit, wet and pulsing with heat.

He gasped your name again and you hummed, gently biting his jaw as you teased the slit you found. Pleasure danced across his body, his hand finding your shoulder, letting himself fall into your touch, gasping again and again as you brought something forth from that slit-his cheeks burning as he glanced down-feeling your hands gliding across something familiar.

“Oh,” Harry breathed, staring down at his dick-which had barely changed between his human form and his mer form. “so that’s where it went,” you laughed gently, ghosting your fingers up and down his dick, Harry’s eyes fluttered shut and his head fell back, his hips bucking into the feeling, chasing it. “fuck-“ he moaned your name, his hand finding your cheek as you kissed him again, the other traveling down your body-looking for that same slit in your tail.

You hummed into his mouth as his fingers dipped into that slit, your bodies heating up as you explore each other, Harry almost panting as you stroked his cock. He breathed your name again, his brows furrowing as your hand sped up. He pushed his fingers further into you and curled them, smirking as you gasped and pulled away from his lips, panting as your eyes cracked open, the two of you staring into each other's eyes as you pleasured each other.

Harry’s breath hitched and his back arched as he was suddenly overwhelmed with warmth-that coil snapping in his gut. His fingers hit something devastating within you and you came with him, gasping into his neck as you curled into his body, the two of you breathing heavily.

You lay there for a long moment, just breathing the other in, Harry’s fingers trailing across your back as your hands held onto his shoulders, thumb ghosting across his scales. “I love you,” Harry said, smiling as you sat up suddenly, eyes wide. “wh-wha?” you laughed, huffing as Harry leaned up and caught your lips, his hands traveling your curves and pulling you close.

“I love you; I think I have been since our first date,” Harry said, not joking in the slightest as you smiled at him, taking his face and kissing him. “I love you too,” you whispered as you pulled away, cuddling into your mate as he pulled you to rest beside him-falling asleep to the sound of your breathing and the push of water above the surface.

-

You spent the rest of the week in neverland-Harry getting the hang of his tail as you explored the waters together, soon enough he was easily keeping pace with the other attack mers, grinning cheekily as you raced him from the lagoon to skull rock. He listened to every story your mom told him about Iris, played with the younger mers of the pod, explored every bit of the lagoon he could, kissed you behind the coral, napped in the sun on the pink stone of the lagoon-his tail resting in the blue waters.

The day before you were scheduled to leave, you gifted him something new, one of your scales, plucked from your tail. You drew a thin leather string through it, allowing it to hang around his neck if he so wished. His smile when you gave it to him nearly blinded you, he took the necklace and then your face-kissing you quickly yet passionately, and then put the necklace on, his eyes soft and sweet as he caressed your scale with his numb-your colors shimmering under the water.

Your mother made Harry promise to return as the two of you left, and Harry beamed, nodding-no longer afraid of their judgment, and you held hands as you went back to the portal that would send you back to Auradon prep.

Harry called your name softly before you went to leave and you turned, smiling as Harry stepped close, his arms wrapping around you, his forehead pressing against yours. “Thank you,” he whispered, and you kissed him, breathing him in.

“Anything for you my love,” you whispered back, taking his hand and taking him back to Auradon.

-end of p7-

damn, its been a bit hasnt it? lowkey lost my groove for...idk I've just been outta it since i got back from Georgia i dont know why, but hopefully i can get back into it, for both writing and art. anyways p7! and Harry got his mer form!!!!

taglist

@sephiralorange @c-rose2081 @rintheemolion

@living-for-romance

[riveramorylunar]

What Lurks In The Dark

Natasha Romanoff Masterlist

Pairings: Vampire Natasha Romanoff x Human Reader

Warnings ⚠️: Bloodsucking, Biting, age difference, height difference, Stalking, broken glass, Cut & blood

Pet Names/Nicknames: Little Human, Darling, дорогая девушка(dear girl), Tasha

Word Count: 2,603

Vampire

There are monsters that lurk in the shadows feasting on human blood. Their blood red eyes that glowed in the night their sharp canines that would pierce through a human or animals skin before drinking their blood dry. Y/N never believed in such creatures throughout her life. Up until now just after she turned 19 she still doesn't believe in them. She moved to New York where there were many sightings of these blood thirty creatures.

She had gotten a job as a barista at a local bakery and coffee shop. She was about to enter the bakery and coffee shop when she bumped into someone. She looked up to see a woman with Blood red hair and blacked out sunglasses on. Her skin was pale and she was a good 6 inches taller. She was wearing an oversized black leather jacket with black ripped jeans and a dark red shirt. She was wearing black combat boots and black fingerless leather gloves. Her lips were stained a dark red color. Y/N heard the woman cough making her snap out of it. She looked up to see a slight smirk on the woman's lips making her face flush. "S-sorry" Y/N said before stepping aside. The woman just walked past Y/N while sipping on her cup of coffee or that's what Y/N thought.

Y/N shook her head before walking into the little building. "Look who finally decided to show up" someone said and Y/N looked up to see the shop owner standing behind the counter smirking. "Sorry Tony" Y/N said and the man laughed before patting Y/N's back as she walked past him. "It's fine kiddo it's your first day so I'll let you off this time" he said before going into the back. "I'm surprised that, woman didn't kill you when you bumped into her" someone said causing Y/N to look up as she was putting her apron on. "Why would you say that" Y/N asked the girl with brown hair. "One thing she owns the biggest night club here and she also has a bad reputation" the girl said and Y/N rolled her eyes. "Doesn't mean she would kill someone for bumping into her" Y/N said and the girl chuckled before holding a hand out. "Wanda Maximoff it's nice to meet you new girl" the girl said and Y/N shook her hand. "Y/N Y/L/N and it's nice to meet you too" Y/N said before she pulled her hand away.

Wanda and Y/N were closing the shop up for the night when Wanda stopped and looked at Y/N. "Do you need a ride home it gets dangerous here at night" Wanda said and Y/N looked up. "No it's alright my apartment building is just a block away" Y/N said causing Wanda to frown. "Don't worry I'll be fine I promise" Y/N continued and Wanda sighed before taking her apron off. "Alright I guess I'll see you tomorrow then" Wanda said before squeezing Y/N's shoulder. Wanda left leaving Y/N in the dark shop. She hung her apron up and made her way to the door after grabbing her bag when she heard something behind her. She turned around but didn't see anything so she opened the door and closed it behind her. She locked it up before pocketing the keys. As she started walking towards her apartment building she felt like someone was following her. She started walking faster before looking over to see no one there. She turned back around just to bump straight into someone. She stumbled back and someone grabbed her from behind. "Well aren't you a pretty thing how bout we go back to my hotel and we could all have some fun maybe have a few drinks as well" the man said and Y/N gulped trying to get free from the other man's grip. "No thank you I'd rather kiss a rat then go with you you're even uglier than a rat" Y/N said and the man stepped closer. He raised his hand and was about to slap Y/N but a hand around his wrist stopped him. "I suggest you let the girl go" the woman said and the man that was holding her scoffed. "And who are you to tell me what to do" the man spat out as his grip tightened around Y/N. Before Y/N could blink the man was punched in the face as she was pulled into the woman's grip. Y/N looked over her shoulder to see the man knocked out on the ground with a broken and bloody nose. "I suggest you scram unless you want the same thing to happen to you too" the woman spat out in a thick Russian accent. The man scrambled away carrying his friend with him.

Y/N looked up to see the woman from before looking down at her still wearing her sunglasses. "I didn't need help I could have handled it on my own" Y/N said and as she tried to pull her wrist away but the woman's grip tightened. "I beg to differ you're lucky I was near here" the woman growled out causing Y/N to shiver. "Can I at least know your name" Y/N asked and the woman looked around before leaning down and whispering into Y/N's ear. "It's Natasha Romanoff darling and you better be careful around here at night things can jump out of the dark" The woman said as she felt something scrap against her ear making her gulp. Natasha pulled away and lifted Y/N's hand up and kissed her palm before letting go. "Hope to see you tomorrow at the shop" Natasha said before she disappeared down the sidewalk. Y/N looked down at her palm to see a lipstick stain on it causing her to blush brightly.

Y/N shut her door to her apartment and locked it. She dropped her bag onto the floor before switching the lights on. Y/N made her way around her apartment before sitting down on the couch after taking a nice hot shower and getting some food to eat. After watching two movies she headed to bed and fell asleep not knowing someone was watching her. "God I can't wait to make you mine дорогая девушка" the person said as they licked their blood stained lips.

Y/N arrived at the shop the next morning and walked in to see three customers already sitting in the booths. Y/N walked behind the counter and grabbed her apron before putting it on. "Well look who's on time" someone said causing Y/N to look up. She saw her boss leaning against the counter while smirking. She rolled her eyes before putting her hair up in a half messy bun leaving some of it down. "Thought I would come in on time so I wouldn't get on your bad side" Y/N said making Tony laugh before he pushed himself off the counter. "You'd have to do something really wrong to get on my bad side but I don't think that's gonna happen" he chuckled out before walking away as a customer walked up. "Well well well fancy seeing you here darling" a woman said and Y/N looked over to see Natasha standing there with a smirked plastered onto her face. "Good morning to you too Tasha" Y/N said as a smile appeared on her face as well. Natasha pushed her sunglasses up onto her head and leaned forward on the counter. Y/N saw that Natasha's eyes were a forest green color. "So what's on the menu today darling" Natasha said as she watched Y/N look back up at her. "Oh uh the same as every day" Y/N stuttered out as she blushed. "I'll have a Mocha Latte then with a black cherry muffin love" Natasha said and she took her wallet out. She placed a 40 dollar bill on the counter and Y/N took it. "Keep the change" Natasha said and Y/N opened her mouth causing Natasha to raise an eyebrow which made her quickly shut it.

Y/N walked over to where Natasha was sitting and set her drink and muffin down in front of her. She also placed a piece of chocolate in front of Natasha which caused the woman to raise an eyebrow. "This is to thank you for saving me last night I want to know how I can repay you" Y/N said and Natasha smiled up at Y/N before thinking. "You could go on a date with me" Natasha said and Y/N's eyes widened in shock. "W-what" Y/N stuttered out and Natasha took a sip of her Mocha Latte before humming. "I think you heard me perfectly clear darling but I asked you if you would go on a date with me" Natasha said as she set down the drink. It was quiet for a few seconds until Y/N spoke up. "I would love to go on a date with you" Y/N said causing Natasha to smirk. "Perfect how about tonight after you get off work we could go anywhere you'd like" Natasha said and Y/N's eyes lit up. "Anywhere" Y/N asked and Natasha nodded her head while she took a bite of her muffin.

After Y/N's shift Tony said that he would close up for the night. Y/N excited the shop and saw Natasha leaning against a red and black motorcycle holding a helmet that matched. Y/N walked up and Natasha causing the woman to smile. "Have you ever ridden a motorcycle before" Natasha asked and Y/N shook her head no. Natasha pushed herself off her motorcycle before helping Y/N put the helmet on. "Where are we going darling" Natasha said as she flipped the visor up. "Mmm you'll find out when we get there I'll tell you the directions" Y/N said as she put the visor back down. Natasha smirked before she got onto the motorcycle before helping Y/N on. "Well you better hold on tight" Natasha said and Y/N hesitated for a couple seconds before wrapping her arms around Natasha's waist.

After a couple minutes of driving Natasha stopped in front of a huge building. She looked up and cursed under her breath when she realized what it was. "A library and museum seriously" Natasha said and Y/N got off the motorcycle before taking the helmet off. "You said anywhere so don't complain Tasha" Y/N said and Natasha glared at her causing the girl to giggle. "And plus there's barely anyone here at night so we won't get disturbed" Y/N continued as she grabbed Natasha's hand and dragged her towards the huge building. "There's only one other car here" Natasha said and Y/N nodded. "Yep the janitor's car" Y/N said before she opened the door that was unlocked. Natasha followed her in and the door shut behind them. "You guys aren't supposed to be here the building is clo- oh Y/N it's you" the janitor said. "In the flesh and thank you for letting us come here at night" Y/N said as the janitor walked over to the two. "It's no problem but please no funny business I don't want to have to clean it up in the morning" he said and Y/N looked away blushing as Natasha rubbed the back of her neck. She had a faint blush across her face. "We won't we promise" Y/N said and the janitor looked between the two before handing Y/N the keys. "Alright I'll be leaving now, lock the door when I leave everything else is already locked" he said and Y/N nodded.

The two were enjoying their date until Y/N accidentally dropped a glass causing it to shatter. Y/N bent down and was about to pick a piece up when Natasha stopped her. "Don't I don't want you to cut yourself I'll go find something to clean it up with" Natasha said before she rushed off. Y/N ju rolled her eyes before she started picking some of the pieces up when she sliced her pointer finger open. She dropped the pieces and looked at her finger before she looked up to see Natasha standing there frozen while holding a dustpan and broom. "Natasha are you alright" Y/N said as she stood up. She walked towards Natasha but the older woman just backed up towards the door. "I need to go I uh I'll see you tomorrow" Natasha said but before she could take another step towards the door Y/N grabbed her by the wrist. "Tasha what's wrong please you can tell me do you not like the place I picked for the date" Y/N asked and Natasha clenched her jaw. "No it's something else" Natasha grunted out. "Please tell me then I won't run I promise" Y/N begged and Natasha sighed before she slowly turned around. Her eyes were blood red and her fangs were showing. Y/N gasped before she let go of Natasha's wrist. Y/N started backing up before she was caged in between the librarian's desk and Natasha. "S-so you guys are actually real" Y/N stuttered out and Natasha licked her lips before nodding her head. She looked down at Y/N's hand to see blood drip onto the carpet. "Can I" Natasha asked quietly and Y/N lifted her hand up. "S-sure" Y/N said and Natasha grabbed Y/N hand before licking Y/N's wounded finger. She looked away as she felt heat rise up her face. She yelped when she felt Natasha's fangs sink into her palm. She looked over and saw Natasha's eyes closed. Natasha pulled away after a couple seconds later and looked at Y/N. "Didn't mean for you to yelp" Natasha said and Y/N just smiled. "It's fine just warn me next time you want to sink your damn fangs into me" Y/N said before she glared up at the vampire. Natasha smirked before she licked up the blood that had escaped from the bite wound.

"So how long have you been a vampire" Y/N said as she watched Natasha patch up her hand and finger. "Let's just say I've been alive for a long time little human" Natasha said and Y/N rolled her eyes before grabbing Natasha's face with her free hand. Natasha looked up since Y/N was now sitting on the desk. "So you're old than" Y/N teased and Natasha squeezed slightly on Y/N's wounded hand causing her to whimper. "Alright I'm sorry but I just have to say you're fucking hot even if you're over a thousand years" Y/N said causing Natasha to smirk showing off her sharp fangs. Before Y/N could think she closed the distance and kissed Natasha on the lips. Her eyes widened in shock and she was about to pull away but Natasha grabbed her face keeping her in place as she kissed back. Natasha pulled away before resting her forehead on Y/N's. "Bold move darling" Natasha said in her thick Russian accent causing Y/N too shiver. "You have no idea what you've gotten yourself into, you're mine now and there's no way you can escape" Natasha whispered against Y/N's lips before kissing her again.

A/N: I think this might be one of my most favorite fics I have written!

I hope you guys like it!!!

[sweetflanfiction]

Second Chances - Part 7

Universe: Read Dead Redemption 2

Pairing: Arthur x reader

Disclaimers and Warnings: If you want me to tag you on the chapters let me know! Also leave a comment with your thoughts :D Not finished, not proofread. English isn't my 1st language. All I know about 1899 is from google, so inacuracies will be plenty. The reader is on the older side, and identifies as a female. Header Gif by @miyku

Part 1 - Part 2 - Part 3 - Part 4 - Part 5 - Part 6 - Part 7

• ··········· • ············ •

Arthur grabbed the brush for the horse looking at the woman walking away, followed by the pup, Mac. He let his gaze linger for a moment watching her play with the dog.

They were not keeping him here, there were no shackles, nothing held him down, there seemed to be no second intentions towards him. Both were honest: You work and stay, or you go.

He walked over to the horse, stroking the soft fur, and started on his task of brushing him.

“Darling?” He whispered under his breath. A humourless chuckle escaped him and the horse whined. “Yeah, I don’t like that one either, friend. But if I name you, you're mine and if you're mine you gotta behave. Do what I tell you and all that. ‘Cause I can get you better, I can make you stronger, but you gotta trust me alright?”

The horse snorted, raising his front hooves and kicking the dirt. The cowboy took it as a yes.

“Alright boy. Let's see. When we was at St. Dennis, I read a newspaper article about this young feller who was doing magic tricks, escaping handcuffs and all sorts of contraptions. How 'bout I name you after him, since you’re so keen on escaping huh? It’s much better than ‘Darling’ I tell you that much.” 

The horse blew air through his nose and moved his head gently while the moved through his fur.

“Alright then, boy. I name you Houdini. How about that?”

Arthur chuckled at the horse and brushed him. Thinking of St. Dennis made him think of the Brants' conversation. He had tried to keep relaxed when the word ‘job’ came up. Trying not to show his inquisitiveness. It placed some shadow of doubt on this whole ‘good and trusting’ issue. However, until this point they had done nothing to make him distrust them so he would wait.

“My dear daughter told me you was gonna be responsible for this gentleman’s well being.” Arthur looked towards the main stable door and found Albert standing there, leaning into the frame. His figure was imposing. Broad shoulders, sturdy forearms, the build of a man who did some heavy lifting around the farm. And yet, the feeling Arthur got from being around him was far from overbearing.

“Yes, sir. If that’s alright with you, I think I can help.” Arthur nodded and continued brushing the horse.

“Oh it’s fine with me. The less I have to deal with him the better. You know how many sleepless nights I’ve had because of him?"

The man walked closer, moving his hand slowly to pat the horse's nose. Arthur was expecting Houdini to buck or become stressed, but he kept still, even though the older man seemed to be angry at the beast. 

"Ain't that right boy? You gave me some frights didn't you?" Albert lowered his gaze gently to the animal and Arthur softened his gaze.

This was just a father worried that one of his own was sick and he couldn't help him. His words were not angry or hateful. Just like Dutch did at some point in his life. Arthur looked down, trying to get rid of the thoughts that threatened to burst through. It still hurt. The betrayal. The irrefutable evidence that his own father figure tossed him aside.

"I'll do my best to keep him happy and healthy." Arthur nodded.

"Good. And for the love of all that is holy in this world ... Change his god damned name...Who names a stallion Darling…And then shoots him…kids these days, swear to God."

"I will, sir."

"And don't call me sir. You ain't in the military. Albert is fine." "Now come on. I smell sausages and eggs in the kitchen. It ain't much, but it's filling." 

Arthur thought about Pearson's stew and how everyone complained about the taste. Even though he had done it at some point, everyone was thankful for the man who kept them fed. But the truth was, at some point, his stew started to tasted all the same. This was not because of the cook's lack of talent, but because the ingredients were, in fact, the same.

The smell coming from the house was different, from his memories' stew. He smelled of eggs cooked in grease and sausages. He closed his eyes for a moment, sniffing. Arthur's mouth watered, people would have thought he was heading for a feast.

The man sat down at the kitchen table while you served them a mix of eggs and sausage, before sitting down yourself. As they both exhaled a content sound, you smiled.

"I reckon I deserve an award for doing the most today." You said in an attempt to sound like a spoiled lady, looking at your father who just gave you a mocking annoyed face.

"I shall reward you with an afternoon of stocking the hay and milking the cows." Albert said, holding his fork up like a king's scepter as you groaned, rolling your eyes.

"Fine…I guess that'll do." 

Arthur kept his eyes on the plate, only peeking at the pair as they bickered. It was innocent, lighthearted fun and he missed that. The last days at camp, this type of discussion would probably have led to someone getting a punch to the nose or even shot. But there were times when this was common among the gang.

Something snapped in front of his eyes and he saw your smirking face looking at him, your fingers in front of his face. 

"I also believe Mr. Callahan should be awarded."

"I say the bed he sleeps in is reward enough." Albert said, raising an eyebrow. Once again, his tone was light and non-judgemental.

"It is. Just give me some eggs and a mattress and it'll be enough." Arthur nodded, still uncomfortable with joking around with them.

"Here I am thinking we could allow him a bath…" you got up from your seat and grabbed the plates, as his head jerked upwards at the mention of a bath. "I guess eating and sleeping is enough for the man."

"Judging by the way his neck snapped up when you mentioned a bath I'd say otherwise." Albert joked and helped with the dishes.

"Fine." You looked back at him, your eyes sparkling with mischief and your lips smiling. "I guess if it's not too troubling for you, good sir, you can take a bath."

"It ain't no trouble at all." Arthur grabbed his plate and walked to the dishwater bucket. "I...Well, I'm just grateful that you keep giving me things and asking for nothing."

"You're working for your keep. Taking care of land ain't easy. If we want to keep living the way we do, we have to put our backs into it." Albert nodded and the girl hummed.

Arthur thought back at how those words, said by someone else, say Dutch, would have sounded dishonest. Although, it may have been because the work he referenced was dishonest. 

"Oh! What did Doc Brant say about the job?" 

His eyes looked up and he felt his muscles tense. That single word had such an impact on him that he didn't even know he was holding his breath until Albert spoke again.

"Cattle convoy." The older man said, but Arthur didn't blink.

• ··········· • ············ •

@photo1030 :: @sylum :: @marislittlereadingcorner :: @rratman ::@clevergirl74

[sarahs-secrets2]

Stargirl (Phillip Graves x Reader) 18+ ࿐♡ ˚.*ೃ

RAHHHHHHHHH, despite the title IT'S GENDER NEUTRAL FOR ALL MY LOVES!!!!!! It's short too I'm sorry LOL, I wanted to put something out tonight but I just didn't have the energy for 1k words (feeling lazy I'm sorry)

Loosely based on Stargirl Interlude by The Weeknd

gn! (no use of Y/N)

Word Count: 662

Warnings: NSFW, sexual tension, swearing, descriptions of sex dream, pet names, light smut

₊°✧︡ ˗ ˏ ˋ ♡ ˎˊ ˗

The lull between missions was the most excruciating boredom you had ever felt. Graves, you, and some other Shadows sat in the common area trying to pass boredom. Laying down on the couch you were throwing a tennis ball up in the air making a game out of trying to knock a ceiling tile out. Graves was sat at the main table flipping through files trying to busy his mind. 

“Would you quit bouncing that ball, fuck”, one of the newest shadows was very obviously irritated with how you were trying to expel your boredom.

“No one said you had to sit here and watch”, glancing over at them from your spot on the couch, shooting a middle finger in their direction. 

“Alright, alright, that’s enough you two”, Phillip hadn't even looked up from the scattered paperwork as he continued, “Get rid of that damn ball, we’re gonna go take watch c’mon”

“I think staring into the abyss of nothing would be more exciting than taking watch, Commander”, you stood up from the couch, walking past Phillip which gave him the chance to place his hand on your lower back as he guided you out of the room. 

“Lose that attitude darling”, Graves’ whispered in your ear, making sure no one else heard. Finally reaching the lookout, the Commander dismissed the previous Shadows who were taking watch. 

“Just as boring as I thought”, you laughed leaning up against the guard rail, crossing your legs slightly. 

“We haven’t even been up here a minute darlin’ c’mon now, I’ll make it worth your while”, Graves walked towards you, grabbing your waist and pulling you off the rails and into him. Instinctively your hands wrapped around his neck, resting your foreheads together.

“You just wanted to get me alone Commander”, speaking barely above a whisper

“Guilty as charged”, he broke from your grasp, raising his hands like he had been caught. Keeping in mind that the two of you were on watch, Graves’ grabbed the binoculars doing a quick look around to make sure all was well. “What are you thinking about over there”, Phillip asked as he peeked at you from above the binoculars. 

“Did I ever tell you about my dream you were in?”, 

“I don't think you did doll, go ahead I’m listening”

“Hm okay, I was bent over the counter”,

“Is this a sex dream?” Phillip dropped the binoculars, now giving you his full attention. 

“Well yeah”, you could see his pants getting tighter as he leaned up on the rail crossing his arms as he waited for you to continue. 

“Go on darlin’, I’m waiting”, a smugness had taken over Graves now that he knew you were dreaming of him fucking you. 

“I don’t remember all of it so don't get too excited over there”, pointing at his now very obvious erection. Phillip shrugged, he didn't mind, he was a man who didn’t shy away from sex. “My back was arched, and I was fully scratching the counter, like leaving marks” 

“Minx”, Graves just laughed as you were recalling the dream to him, he outstretched a hand to pull you in. Your ass now resting on his hard cock, and his hands resting on your waist rubbing small circles with his thumbs. “What else happened?”, your breath caught in your throat as you tried to find your train of thought as Phillip whispered lightly into your ear. 

“I don't remember anymore”, your face was warm and you felt dizzy.

“Well, was hoping to hear how I made you cum, but I guess I’ll settle for the real thing”, placing slow kisses on your neck as he spoke. “Let me get a new team up here to take over watch, and we can make that dream of yours a reality, how ‘bout that doll?”. Still unable to think, you nodded looking back at Phillip who was lightly pushing into your ass as he smirked at you.

"Go head back down to my room, I'll wait for the boys and meet you down there", the Commander pulled you into a kiss before sending you on your way with a wink.

₊°✧︡ ˗ ˏ ˋ ♡ ˎˊ ˗

Sorry it's so short </3 forgive me pls, and if there’s a typo pls lmk I’m so tired LOL

[gryffindormischief]

Thoughts on Olympic Swimmer!Hary?

A/N: How about a little ficlet?

Ao3

---

eidolon

Silence under the water, complete isolation, one focus and everything in his body working toward that focus - that's what Harry loves about swimming. It's what lead him from swim lessons to swim team to private coach and now to the 2024 Summer Olympic Games.

Sponsorships and attention are more a means to an end than anything. He'd gladly pass that bit off to some poor sod who likes to grin and have his photo taken.

That's where he and his dad differed. His dad was captain of the UK hockey team back in the day and lead them to victory in a huge upset to everyone's expectations. And James Potter, by. his own admission, did go through a 'poncey period' before he met Lily Potter née Evans and she handed him his head at a charity ball. But even at his most humble, James Potter is a media darling.

Harry James Potter got all the sportsmanship, drive, commitment, perseverance, and whatever else it takes to be good enough for the Olympics. He did not, however, get any of the 'media darling' genes.

It worked when he started out. He was 'that cute shy newbie.' Now, he's twenty-six, competing in his second Olympic Games, had just shattered his previous record (along with the world record), and he is ready to toss up his breakfast at the thought of the press conference where he's about to be served up like a main course.

The dull rumble of conversation escalates to a roar when Neville shoves him into the room, camera shutters clacking loudly while reporters shout his name and random bouts of applause break out from the British press.

Apparently everyone's quite excited to win something.

Neville looms at Harry's side, then at his side glance, claims a seat just out of the heavy lighting meant just for Harry.

He takes a few questions, soft balls about how exciting it is to win, if he's proud of the achievement, what it means for the rest of the Games...

Then he catches sight of a flash of red in the crowd, and his heart starts pounding. He ignores a few new shouts of his name and pushes his glasses further up his face as he looks closer. It is her. Lingering off to the side, under the glow of the exit sign. God she's just so beautiful. Especially when she turns to him - like she is now - and her brown eyes glimmer like starlight.

And though Harry has learned to tune out the cacophony of sounds at a presser, his ear still recognizes sudden silence. It's almost comforting for a second, like when his whole body dips under the water, like when it's just the two of them with too much take away, a crackling fire, and no responsibilities.

Neville groans at his elbow, not like when he really screws up, but like when he grins and shakes his head because Harry's a loose cannon. He whispers, "Your mike is hot, and you definitely said that out loud."

Harry feels his face warm as he quickly looks toward Ginny, who's burying her laughter while the reporters turn to find Ginny Weasley, captain of the UK Women's Football team - currently the team to beat - lingering in the shadows.

She glances toward Harry and he grins. Ginny steps backward into the hallway, and disappears.

Harry chuckles. "Sorry - Ginny Weasley coming to watch me compete is still my biggest win."

[josephseedismyfather]

WIP Music (it's not) Monday (anymore)

Thanks to @inafieldofdaisies and @cassietrn for tagging me in this week's post! Sorry for the delay!

The rules: Post a song that is relevant to your WIP or inspires it. I’m also including the lyrics.

Afflicted.

I will never bother you I will never promise to I will never follow you I will never bother you Never speak a word again I will crawl away for good I will move away from here You won't be afraid of fear No thought was put into this I always knew it would come to this Things have never been so swell I have never failed to fail

Pain Pain Pain

You know you're right You know you're right You know you're right I'm so warm and calm inside

I no longer have to hide Let's talk about someone else The steaming soup begins to melt Nothing really bothers her She just wants to love herself I will move away from here You won't be afraid of fear No thought was put into this I always knew to come like this Things have never been so swell I have never failed to fail

Pain Pain Pain Pain Pain

You know you're right You know you're right You know you're right You know you're right You know you're right You know you're right You know you're right You know you're right You know you're right You know you're right You know you're right You know you're right You know your rights You know you're right

Parenesis.

Put your loving hand out, baby 'Cause I'm beggin'

I'm beggin', beggin' you So, put your loving hand out, baby I'm beggin', beggin' you So, put your loving hand out, darling

Riding high, when I was king I played it hard and fast, 'cause I had everything I walked away, but you warned me then But easy come, and easy go, and it would end

So, any time I bleed, you let me go Yeah, any time I feed you, get me? No? Any time I seek, you let me know But I plan and see, just let me go

I'm on my knees when I'm beggin' 'Cause I don't want to lose you Hey yeah, ratatata

'Cause I'm beggin', beggin' you And put your loving hand out, baby I'm beggin', beggin' you And put your loving hand out, darling

I need you to understand Tried so hard to be your man The kind of man you want in the end Only then can I begin to live again

An empty shell, I used to be The shadow of my life was hanging over me A broken man that I don't know Won't even stand the devil's chance to win my soul

What we doing? What we chasing? Why the bottom? Why the basement? Why we got good shit, don't embrace it? Why'd you feel for the need to replace me? You're the wrong way track from the good I want to paint a picture telling where we could be at Like a heart in the best way should You can give it away, you had, and you took the pay

But I keep walking on, keep opening doors Keep hoping for, that the door is yours Keep oh-so home 'Cause I don't wanna live in a broken home Girl, I'm beggin'

Mmm, ye-e-e-ah I'm beggin', beggin' you So, put your loving hand out, baby I'm beggin', beggin' you So, put your loving hand out, darling

I'm fighting hard to hold my own Just can't make it all alone I'm holding on, I can't fall back I'm just a calm 'bout to fade to black

I'm beggin', beggin' you Put your loving hand out, baby I'm beggin', beggin' you So, put your loving hand out, darling

Untitled John WIP.

Under the water It's cold and it's grey My torrid autumn Another season decays Open up the hollow And my walls come down I tell you it's a problem Just when no one's around But then

I know what's wrong God, you complicated everything I know you're gone, gone, gone This is where I will draw a line

I will draw my line

I'm burning my cathedrals 'Cause I don't pray anymore Look at all of these people, tragic little people They smile and then they don't know what for But then

I know what's wrong God, you complicated everything I know you're gone, gone, gone This is where I will blur my line

I will blur my line

Yeah!

Our houses are haunted, dark and deserted They're made of my secrets and shame Maybe I want it but now I'm not worth it I can't even tell you my name But then

I know what's wrong God, you complicated everything I know you're wrong God, you took it all away from me I know you're gone, gone, gone This is where I will cross my line

I am crossing my line

Tagging, with no pressure and apologies for doubles as always: @wrathfulrook, @socially-awkward-skeleton, @trench-rot, @ladyoriza, @redreart, @hotmessteaparty, @g0dspeeed, @v0idbuggy, @insanityofvaas, @simplegenius042, @malefiquinn, @strangefable, @noodlecupcakes, @neverthesameneveranother, @chazz-anova, @aristomal, @ocdemon-747, @evilvvithin, and anyone else who wants to play. Tag me! 😘

[welcometomyoasis]

Shu's Seventeen Song Recs (for @heavenfilm) - sorry obviously I didn't add every single song in but they have no skips so I recommend just listening to everything!

Shu's cry songs (ie, the songs I listen to when I write angst... or the songs that some of my moots might want to yank away from me because I love angst haha also yes I'm aware some of these are happier sounding songs...)

when I grow up

healing (I listen to this when I travel and it does make me sob on the airplane...)

beautiful

highlight (uhm... idk how to explain this being here... I love the soothing sound of the music)

lean on me

don't listen in secret

smile flower

don't wanna cry

habit

if i

without u

lilili yabbay (same as highlight I like the sound of the music)

pinwheel

flower

campfire

thanks

run to you

our dawn is hotter than day (I listen to this during plane take offs... also makes me sob for some reason)

hug

home

lie again

247

second life

fallin flower

my my

kidult

together

24H

all my love

not alone

anyone

same dream, same mind, same night

imperfect love

I can't run away

2 minus 1

power of love

circles

don quixote

shadow

if you leave me

fml

I don't understand but I luv u

dust

April shower

Now - even if the world ends tomorrow

SOS

yawn

headliner

silent boarding gate (jun solo)

hai cheng (minghao solo)

Shu's happy music (ie, the songs I listen to when I want to be hyped up)

adore u

20

mansae

pretty u

love letter

aju nice

beautiful

boom boom

swimming fool (SUPER FUN SONG)

CLAP

flower

rocket

thinkin' about you

call call call!

holiday

come to me

moonwalker

good to me

shhh

getting closer

happy ending

hit

fear

let me hear you say

network love

back it up

snap shoot

left and right

together

Home;Run

Ah! Love

heaven's cloud

ready to love

anyone

Gam3 Bo1

Wave

to you

rock with you

crush

Pang!

darl+ling

_world

hot

don quixote

March

domino

shadow

'bout you

ash

dream

super

fire

Sara Sara

god of music

diamond days

back 2 back

monster

psycho (jun solo)

tiger power (uhm... Hoshi's unofficial solo)

spider (hoshi solo)

Shu's favs (ie, Shu's favourite songs... oddly similar to Shu's cry songs...)

pretty u

aju nice

don't wanna cry

habit

if i

pinwheel

campfire

thinkin' about you

thanks

run to you

come to me

our dawn is hotter than day

good to me

hug

happy ending

fear

network love

fallin flower

left and right

together

kidult

Ah! Love

all my love

heaven's cloud

ready to love

anyone

gam3 bo1

to you

rock with you

imperfect love

I can't run away

2 minus 1

_world

Hot

don quixote

shadow

'bout you

if you leave me

ash

fml

super

fire

I don't understand but I luv u

dust

April shower

Sara Sara

SOS

headliner

yawn

silent boarding gate

hai cheng

Shu's picks (ie, songs which gives me HUGE brain rot for seventeen. either the videos are my favourites or I love the growls in the song... ahem anyway)

pretty u (listen... jeonghan's fancam from one of last year's performances when his hair was long... my absolute favourite)

aju nice (needs no explanation)

healing

don't wanna cry

if I (I love the instrumental in between the verses)

pinwheel

flower

rocket

falling for you (duet between my loves? jeonghan and Joshua? yes please)

call call call! (the intro is everything)

holiday (just a fun song!)

our dawn is hotter than day

good to me (this does something to me....)

hug

happy ending

fear

network love

back it up

network love

fallin flower (fun fact! there's this panda I like who always rolls around... her name is he Hua which means peace flower.. anyway when she rolls I literally hum fallin fallin fallin...)

left and right

kidult

24H

Ah! Love (the 95 liners in one song? them saying ah! love is you? obviously I love it)

all my love

heaven's cloud (soft yet fluffy)

ready to love (Joshua's voice is dreamy)

anyone (I fell in love with Joshua because of the special video)

gam3 bo1 (really fun sound!)

rock with you

crush

Pang!

2 minus 1 (American duo!!!)

darl+ling

circles (ie the song that makes all carats sob)

HOT

don quixote

shadow (.... the growls.. I just melt)

ash

fml

super

fire (watch the fancam...)

I don't understand but I luv u (also... watch the fancam)

dust

April shower

Sara Sara

SOS

headliner

god of light music (duh!)

[yanban-san]

What would happen if darling were to get sick -like cant come in to work, stuck in bed, "omg this will never end" kinda sick.

Would they "poof!" the sickness away or go about it o' natural human style?

(currently recovering from covid and my discovery of your blog has revived my dead body)

Adding Necromancy to my resume, brb (In all seriousness Anon I hope you recover swiftly! Covid is a lil bitch >:( )

Tags: Poly, Demon/Monster AU, No beta we die like men

You messaged your bosses on your X-Transceiver after you'd woken up with a horrible headache and sore throat- Your whole body felt chilled with pins and needles in between bouts of burning fever, and you knew you were in no condition to go into work today. You'd hoped the scratchiness in your throat from the day before was just from some dust or cleaning fluid's caustic scent you'd inhaled too much of- Oh well. Damn it.

Ingo and Emmet were already at Gear Station; They were awaiting your arrival quite happily and impatiently-

Until they got your text. You were... ill? Sick?? How awful! Sickness was such a pain- Not that they knew what being sick was like, just that it was a nuisance for humans and made them feel terrible and, in bad cases, could be deadly.

This could not be! They would not allow some useless, questionably alive viral cells/bacteria to cause you such suffering. Emmet was already digging through Ingo's library of arcane knowledge and magic- Surely they had collected some references and spells on ending sicknesses in humans? If not, they could easily make one, though Emmet was very lazy.

Ingo however, had a different idea.

He observed you through his shadows- It was only a simple sore throat you had; And all the terrible symptoms that it brought on. Curing it would be easy to them- But what this bought of sickness really was, was an excellent opportunity for showering you with their affections- To show you they would be excellent caretakers of you in the future! What better way to show how they could tend to you then by bringing you a care package- Like the one you'd brought Emmet when he'd been out "sick" for a week. Although in actuality, he'd been being punished by his brother for his carelessness in dealing with Miss Elesa's memories- And that dumb photo he'd let her take of him exterminating some pest for their home realm.

"What do you say, dear brother?" He asked, turning his gaze to his twin, who had a rapidly growing pile of grimoires and arcane scripts beside him. A small voidal portal opened up beneath the stacks of books, sending them back to wherever they'd come from.

"A verrry nice idea. But the medicines in this world are terrible, brother-"

"That is true-"

"I do not like seeing them in pain."

"Neither do I," Ingo reassured his brother.

They would make you suffer only a little longer.

---

You spent the day in quiet agony- You really needed to go to the corner store at least, grab some sodas, cough drops, maybe some cough syrup too. But your head felt like it was splitting every time you stood up, and you were a shaky mess. The world was spinning from your headache, and you just couldn't bring yourself to get out of bed.

There was no way you'd be able to walk to the corner store without collapsing. You were rationing your almost-empty bottle of cough syrup, but your throat felt horrible. Soup would be nice too- Just some plain broth, even. Maybe you could order some takeout.

Several times when you almost managed to fall asleep, you swore you heard someone's voice shooshing you and reassuring you- And a hand or two gently stroking your hair and back. You'd bolt upright, completely awake, and- Nothing.

Just some funky sickness induced hallucinations, you reassured yourself.

But still. You needed to get something.

And your X-Transceiver beeped- ringing with an incoming call.

Station Master Ingo, the screen said.

"H-Hello?" You answered, trying your best not to sound like an 80 year old chain-smoker-

"Greetings, Miss! I was wondering- Or well, Emmet and I were wondering- We pass by your apartment on our way to our own. If we may, would it be acceptable for us to bring you... er, some medicine? Emmet quite enjoyed the gift you gave him last time, and he and I would greatly appreciate it- If you'd let us return the favor."

Oh thank Sinnoh above, you thought! You hated to pester your bosses like this- But at the same time... the offer was extremely tempting. Luckily your apartment wasn't too messy- You could receive a visitor for a second.

"If you'd like to, but please- Don't go out of the way!"

"Of course! Thank you- Miss."

And with that, Ingo hung up.

Wait- did he know what kind of cough syrup you bought?

Well, it didn't matter. Any of the normal drug store brands would be good. And maybe some plain bone broth soup from the deli that existed at the bottom of your apartment... Would that be too much to ask your bosses for? You were starving.

You sighed, getting up- You had taken a shower earlier, but you should probably be dressed before your bosses came up. Your pajamas were not something you wanted them to see.

Afterwards, you went to your kitchenette- You didn't have anything to offer them. Darn. Well, it wasn't like they'd want to stick around or anything- They'd probably knock on your door and drop it off, or wait for you to come to the door to take whatever they'd bring you. Inviting them in to your apartment while you were sick was probably... not right?

You didn't want to think about it. Your head hurt. You'd thank them, and promise to be into work as soon as your cold was over, and they'd go on their merry way-

Knock-knock-knock-knock-knock-

The knocking on your door was startling, and you couldn't help but jump when you heard the rapid fire tapping echoing through your living area. "C-Coming!" You coughed out, taking a swig of water. Maybe it would've been better to just go down to the corner store yourself, you thought-

But then you opened the door- to Ingo and Emmet both standing there, smiling as brightly as they could. Emmet's smile naturally was much wider than Ingo's, whose smile was still a frown- curling at the corners. Adorable.

"Hel-Hello, Station Masters-" You coughed out, holding open your door with your arm- When Emmet took his free hand and held the door for you, and off your body.

"Miss! We have brought you some medicine- And other things! For your sore throat!"

Ingo tipped his hat. "No need to be so formal outside of the Station, Dear- But no matter- May we come in to set these down?" He asked, lifting up the bags.

"Oh, thank you, you two! But really, I'm not feeling good- I would hate to give you two this awful cold-"

"Nonsense." Emmet responded monotonously. He found it almost insulting that you thought he'd be capable of becoming ill- He was not so weak! He put his foot forward, sliding into your apartment despite your protests-

"Er, Emmet-" Ingo added warily as he saw his brother loom over you, smiling as cheerily as ever and holding the door open. "Nonsense, brother- We cannot dump these heavy bags off with a sick person and leave them to deal with them themself!"

"I agree, brother- But still, you should not- Force your way- Into- their apartment-" And he shifted all the bags into his other hand while the now freed one grabbed at his coat collar.

You could help but smirk at their antics. They really only meant well, didn't they? And-

Your thoughts were interrupted by the smell of- soup. Really good soup.

Coconut mushroom soup? But the Alolan hangout would've been closed by this time-

"Is that... coconut soup." You asked intensely, staring at one of the bags Emmet was holding.

"Yes."

"Where did you get that?!"

Emmet's smile went crooked for a second as he thought-

"There is a place. Brother and I go to it occasionally. We get verrrry good soup there! This soup is good for you too, so we picked some up for you."

"Oh, you shouldn't have! But it does- It does smell amazing," You added. "You know what? If you two are alright with it, come on in- I won't keep you long or anythi-" And your words were cut off as you coughed again. Ingo's semi-smile vanished, replaced by a look of worry. Humans were so fragile, weren't they?

The two practically glided into your apartment, moving swiftly- Ingo insisted you at least sit down on your couch- And they brought you the wonderful, throat-healing soup- And also arranged all the medicines and treats they'd brought you for your sickness on your table. Packages of special teas, and... strange cough drops and a syrup you'd never seen before. Unlike most medicines at the drugstore, it wasn't kept in a plastic bottle- And the labeling on it looked quite old fashioned. What back-alley herbalist did they buy these from, you wondered-

"Oh, this- Emmet and I prefer a... private pharmacist for certain medicines. I apologize that we didn't pick up any er, regular medicines for you... but I can assure you, this cough syrup is excellent." Ingo stated- You studied the bottle. The syrup inside was a deep, rich brown- And it was definitely a syrup. You cracked open the bottle, smelling it-

It smelled vaguely alcoholic, but also sweet- and... like greenery.

"Try a tiny bit of it!" He encouraged. You poured barely a teaspoon of it into a dosage cup- And threw it back in your mouth, expecting the worst.

But instead of tasting horrible-

It tasted like a burn. Probably the alcohol, you realized- And then a sweet, cinnamony taste hit you-

And your throat felt like it didn't even hurt anymore. The relief was instantaneous, and for the first time all day you didn't feel the scratchy, bitey itch at the back of your mouth.

"Wow," You remarked- Even your voice sounded better!

Ingo's expression relaxed. "I'm glad it worked so well for you, dear."

You took a sip of the soup- Rich and creamy and also wonderfully soothing on your tired throat. And quite unlike the soup you were used to from your local Alolan-themed diner. It almost, you felt like remarking, tasted like the coconut soup you'd gotten when you'd been to Alola with your parents so long ago! Like the real, authentic thing- Freshly made with fresh coconuts and freshly harvested mushrooms and freshly made bone broth-

"I'd love to visit wherever you guys got this from!" You added as you took another sip of the delicious broth. Ingo and Emmet exchanged a glance- They would certainly be more than happy to take you Alola sometime, if that is what you wished for-

But you didn't want to keep your bosses late. It was after work, surely they must've wanted to head home too? And it was rather nerve-wracking having them in your apartment of all places, while you were ill-

And finally, after much goading and reassuring them that yes, you were fine, and yes, you would definitely take as much rest as needed-

You managed to get them out of your apartment.

"And Station-" "Informal." Emmet interrupted, smiling.

"-Mas- Er, what?"

Emmet repeated. "We are not at work right now- We prefer casual addressment when we are not at work-"

"-If you are alright with it yourself, of course." Ingo added rather forcefully, glaring at his brother for rudely interrupting you.

You smiled again- They could be so silly together, your twin bosses.

"Well then, Ingo and Emmet- Thank you both very much for bringing me some medicine, and the soup, and the tea. I'll be sure to recover quickly!"

"Please do- But please remember safety first!" Emmet added. "Rest."

They bid you good night- And you settled into your bed, taking the cough syrup with you to your bedside.

A proper dose of that medicine, and you'd be fast asleep and feeling better- And cured by morning.

And thus, the twins got their opportunity to take care of you- without making you suffer unnecessarily. You would spend the evening, and the whole of the next morning- And the days that followed, thinking about how sweet they'd been to bring you something when you weren't feeling well. How kind, caring- protective, nurturing- The Station Masters were towards you.

And with that, they were quite satisfied.

[random-introverted-blog]

I intended to write a reply way sooner. Anywho here it is! YouTube complication videos bout BG3 are so useful for fanfics and more! I bet you’ve seen the ones about Astarion’s assist voice lines (Shadowheart has her own video too).

They deserve just playful banter & casual flirting. The entire group seems pretty shippable with each other because of the similarities & differences they all have. That’s such an interesting & angsty idea, SH just escaping a life of shadows then Astarion being doomed to one. 

Ascended!Astarion & DarkJusticiar!Shadowheart being together just contractually for power & playing a game together but accidentally falling for each other would be so interesting. Neither of them want to lose the game. 

Both of them were used to causal flirting at meant nothing since they start from the time they met.  It had been one comforting inconsequential constant & just for fun + didn’t mean anything but this. This was terrible. It’d muck up the simplicity. It’d be ridiculous. Why now? What’s so great about that person anyway? I don’t relate to them! Me in love with that diva? What?! That’s preposterous. Just a rival-ally I happen to be contractually marr- ahem…with. Why would you suggest that? Away with you.

(^Them Tsundereing. Impromptu dialogue. You just inspired me I suppose! They’d both amp up the pressure and flirting (probs the possessiveness and jealousy too) but would still try to make it look effortless and like they don’t give a damn any more than the usual act)

Exactly, it could happen or could work.

I have so many thoughts about them. They’re both my favourite characters & I just ship em too after I thought about them.

I read some of your writing and it is phenomenal. Hopefully you have had fun. You seem on a roll since you wrote so much. As a fellow writer, I applaud you and congratulate you. 

I’ll dub myself Bloodmoon anon I guess? 

What’d you like to be called? 

-Bloodmoon/ 🩸🌕 anon 

Hello, Bloodmoon anon! Missed you, darling. I've spent a long while thinking about this, went back and studied YouTube videos, took notes and boy do I have a wall of text for you lol.

Yes, I have seen those assist lines and I'm a tad sad we don't have many snarky or genuine "kiss you better" like lines from Shadowheart. She's the cleric, come on 😭.

All the companions deserve playful banter and casual flirting! Personally, I think the two most shippable are Wyll and Karlach.

But Astarion and Shadowheart fostering a relationship only for her to have to choose between living in darkness again or living with Astarion would be very angsty. I feel like that idea is better written post game though. Maybe they had inkling of feelings throughout but for one reason or another failed to pursue. There IS a line you can get with Shadowheart where you can ask her "We started a romance earlier but didn't follow up" and she basically says "yeah, maybe in another life" like way to tell me to reload my playthrough Shadow-waifu... That aside, this could be the way you pave into a SHxAst relationship post game.

So an Ascended and Dark Justiciar relationship... A little bit trickier to see with the Sharran Shadowheart ending I saw but we can bend things around, for sure! Part of the fun of fanfic is bending canon, after all. SPOILERS FOR THE EPILOGUE FOR SHARRAN!SHADOWHEART AND ASCENDED!ASTARION FOR ANYONE WHO HASN'T SEEN IT YET BEYOND THIS POINT

Shadowheart canonically becomes mother superior of the Baldur's Gate cloister, and if asked will tell you she actually sympathizes with Viconia now. And though she'll practically clamber onto the dining table and preach "Lady of Loss, now only $19.99 plus shipping and handling, call now and get two Lady of Losses for the price of one" at the start of the dialogue, clearly wants Shar to give her a way out. She's feeling overwhelmed. If you tell her you're living a quiet life, she'll admit to being a little jealous of you because "a little calm and solitude would be a tonic". When you ask her how's life being mother superior she will go off on a rant about how exhausting it is and that she misses the comparative simplicity of "your little group against the odds". And if you romanced her and she left you, you can hit her with the "You're not the same woman I fell for" and she basically gives you a tough girl "nor are you the same person who fell for me..." before segwaying into "👉👈 but I'm sure there's still plenty for you to like and indulge in for tonight 😏".

Astarion, if you break up with him, will admit that he has missed you and there's something lonely about all the power he has. And I have no doubt if the opportunity were presented to rekindle something, that he'd happily take you back. He'd be a total asshole about it, that I'm almost sure, but he'd still welcome you back. He seems reasonably calm and not like the fanfics have written him to be. But I do get a mild sense that he is still obsessed even if just a teensy bit.

END OF SPOILERS THANKS FOR STILL READING

All that said, you can certainly swing their stories toward "two lonely souls seeking carnal/physical solace in each other but end up way more entangled than either of them wanted/expected". And once they do realize they're catching feelings, then the toxic tsundere power plays start rolling in. Then they're just trying to out yandere each other and that could be scary, hot and hilarious all at once.

Aww, thank you! It means the world to me that people enjoy my work! Without that, I'd have no reason to post. Much less pressure to write privately for myself, but knowing there are people like you out there that my writing can make happy or boost your mood is what I really write for.

What would I like to be called? Not sure! You and anyone else can call me what you'd like, within reason of course. Could call me by my ao3 username, could call me an abbreviated name of this blog... Doesn't matter, as long as it's not malicious or bullying.

[iwashie]

BLUE LOCK MEN AS BREAKUP SONGS pt4

📌 eita otoya, jyubei aryu, nanase nijiro, shido ryusei, hiori yo, don lorenzo, shuto sendo

︶ ︶ ︶    ୨୧ ︶ ︶ ︶ warnings- breakup songs that I think suits the Blue Lock boys. (pt1 here, pt2 here, pt3 here .open requests!)

♡EITA OTOYA- IF WE EVER BROKE UP/ MAE STEPHENS

If you keep wondering If somebody understands Darling, I don't understand you If you stay awake at nightWaiting for somebody right Baby, oh, your karma is due If we ever broke up, I'd never be sad Thinking 'bout everything that we had If we ever broke up If we ever broke up, I'd call your dad And tell him all the shittiest of things you said If we ever broke up...

✦JYUBEI ARYU- SAVE YOUR TEARS/ THE WEEKND & ARIANA GRANDE

I saw you dancing in a crowded room (uh) You look so happy when I'm not with you But then you saw me, caught you by surprise A single teardrop falling from your eye I don't know why I run away (oh, oh, oh, oh, oh) I'll make you cry when I run away (oh, oh, oh, oh, oh) Take me back 'cause I wanna stay Save your tears for another Save your tears for another day (oh, oh, oh, oh, oh)....

❱NANASE NIJIRO- MISSING/ SEAFRET

Well I don't know what you need when I'm so unprepared Tell me, what is a life, if it is not shared? I keep falling asleep pretending that you're there You gave me something to live for, something to die for Is there something that I'm, I'm missing? Is there something I'm not, not seeing? Is it not enough just, just being? Is there something that I'm, I'm missing?...

𒀭SHIDO RYUSEI- NOBODY GETS ME/ SZA

Took a long vacation, no makeup, just Jay-Z You were balls deep, now we beefin', had me butt-naked at the MGM So wasted screamin', "Fuck that," love me now, but I'm anythin' Hurry now, baby, stick it in 'fore the memories get to kickin' in It's too late, I don't wanna lose what's left of you How am I supposed to tell ya? I don't wanna see you with anyone but me Nobody gets me like you How am I supposed to let you go? Only like myself when I'm with you Nobody gets me, you do (do)...

✿HIORI YO- TALK ME DOWN/ TROYE SIVAN

'Cause you know that I can't trust myself with my 3 a.m. shadow I'd rather fuel a fantasy then deal with this alone I wanna sleep next to you But that's all I wanna do right now So come over now And talk me down I wanna hold hands with you But that's all I wanna do right now And I wanna get close to you 'Cause your hands and lips still know their way around, ooh And I know I like to draw that line when it starts to get too real But the less time that I spend with you, the less you need to heal....

✸DON LORENZO- WILL HE?/ JOJI

Will your tongue still remember the taste of my lips? Will your shadow remember the swing of my hips? Will your lover caress you the way that I did? Will you notice my charm if he slips up one bit? And now I'm sad And I'm a mess And now we high That's why I left That's why I left...

✶SHUTO SENDO- SOLITUDE/ M83 & FELSMANN + TILEY

Somewhere Back in time I left a part of me I wanna see if you can try To bring it back to me You gotta go Where I cry And take in all the tears I wanna see if you can try Drink a little bit of me No Just a little lonely Where I am Take me back in time I wanna see if you can smile If I become a better man I need you, now I know Just give me one more time I'm gonna try and be your friend So we can beat the end...