#like milo!?!? we've been together for HOW LONG!?!

[caninecowboy]

guess what time it is!!! time to be sappy on main

[web-kindle]

!MASSIVE FOOLIVERSE RAMBLE! Read at your own peril!

Congratulations Erik! 🎊🥳🎊

You have successfully made me care more about the Fooliverse than ANY canon storyline you've currently got going on rn (Except for Hush and Vega, I'm still very invested in that). Forget the Balance, forget Sovereign State, forget the currently kinda stagnant DAMN storyline, I need more Fooliverse Lore! (Note: mildly hyperbolic, I do want Erik to push major storylines, but with the new schedule they're gonna take ages)

Like each character we've gotten so far have been so fun, but with them comes so many questions about the universe around them. For example (this is your final chance to escape, its a long one):

What's the rest of the DAMN crew like? Are they all complete opposites of their canon counterparts, and if not what stays the same. Gavin although quiet and submissive, still very much enjoys sex and partaking in it when he wants like in canon. So what about the others? Is Huxley less friendly in this AU, is he rude or just an actual loner that gave up on making real friends? Is he smarter or still a bit goofy? What about Lasko and Damien, what are their differences? Is Damien a member of staff or is Lasko a really extroverted student? Where's Kody in all this? Is he still a mild extremist or is he actually a cool dude? Maybe he's a jock unlike Huxley??? Like I'M SO INVESTED!

What's going on with the rest of the Rebaine Clan? Where was Marie when Milo's dad drunk himself to death and Milo got lost in the system? Was she an absent mother or was she just not related to Milo at all? Is she in the Rebaine Clan or is she the Queen of a Clan of her own? Where. Are. The Solaires?!?! I have to know if Vincent is still a human who survived The Surge and is just living life, or never got on in the first place. Did he ever meet Lovely, did he die on The Surge and not get saved? Was he born a Vamp, turned by William still, or someone else? Is William a minor Duke or something or still a King but not as important? What about being one of those High Council Vamps Milo mentioned? Is he even around? We know Porter is, like did Demetri save him, get Porter indebted to him, or was Porter born a Vamp and just joined the Clan??? And how close is the Clans relationship with the Talbot Pack. Like yeah their friends of the Clan, but to the same level as in canon, or more? Or less? We know Asher is more serious in this AU being the Alpha, so what's his relationship with Milo??? Are they close friends, or reluctant allies on a personal level? IS MILO STILL SHORT?!?! These are the questions we need answered

James we know is a stoner and that he doesn't see himself as a good person. Is he still part of ETS, doing stuff that doesn't sit well with him to the point he smokes to get away? Does he even have a job currently? Why does he feel like he's not a good/kind person? What did he do? Maybe it's just his personality this AU... But if James isn't part of ETS and Anton is in the Pack, who's running Project Meridian? Is the project even needed, cause if the Miridian is OK in this AU, maybe the company that would do it is just sticking to normal science projects (whatever that means). Where's Marcus in all this, is he still a weirdo, but in a different font? Maybe he's just a dude too, living life, or maybe Asset is just a person and they actual love Marcus and they live together with no issues... GOD this is so unfair that I don't know 😫

And more on Anton, we know he is a member of the Talbot Pack. It's cute he's so fun and carefree, not wondering when he'll see his Love again. He's flourishing in the Talbot Pack! I'm guessing he's just an ordinary member, but is he part of security (if the Pack still does that) or does he do his own thing. Maybe he's a stay-at-home partner, I wonder if he's still responsible somewhat to maintain the house easily or if he's completely a menace on that front.

What. Happened. To. Guy??? Cause why's my Guy so depressed? Is he still sharing an apartment with Mikayla, but Honey isn't there, so its sapping him of all his happiness? Did he confess but Honey was like "nah" and he's completely defeated in life. Maybe Guy tried to do more with his writing degree but it's not working out and him delivering pizza on the size is really knocking his motivation? What if he's just like that and things are a-ok overall. Maybe he barely reacted to Anton' wolf for cause he knows about magic (accidently or not) and is completely disillusioned about life cause "why are things still shit if magic exists" so he just doesn't care??? You can't leave me hanging like this Erik!!!

More on the Pack, DAVID IS OPENLY CALLED DAVEY! First, that's so fucking cute as hell, but I gotta know is it an inside joke, did Angel push for this, or maybe is naturally evolved and David doesn't mind anyone calling him that. Curious to see which one it is. We at least know based on his personality he's not highly likely to hate on it. Secondly, HIS DAD'S ALIVE (and seems to call his son for tech help lol). That's so sweet! ☺️ Shows how different he would be with his dad still around. And finally, damn he's such a sweetheart, and Angel is still a menace but a grumpy one instead. Its hot how he wants them to take the lead, begs for it even.

Overall love how cute he is in this, makes me question what his dynamic would be interacting with Milo in this universe. In fact, I wanna see more of his and Asher's best friend relationship in this AU. With their personalities, I feel like it would be really chill. Anyway, who is the Beta? It's not Davey and it doesn't seem to be Anton, so who is it? Maybe, it actually is Darlin like some people have been theorising. (Oh god Where's Sam in all this???) Or maybe Christian, which also makes me guess what the dynamic between him and Asher is like. Maybe it's not so different to his canon interactions with Alpha David.

And a side note, Alpha Asher just can't catch a break, it's like being the Alpha of this Pack curses you to be gruff and broody no matter what universe it happens in. At least no one close to him has actually died or something like in The Imperium. Unless if one or both of his parents died for him to become a grumpy Alpha!!! Who knows, its up for headcannon to decide. Mildly bummed out that we don't get a full vid or even an Asher cameo in this AU. A few references on his seemingly responsible lifestyle and kinda gruff character by other people is not enough. GIVE ME MORE OF THE FOOLIVERSE PUPPY!!! (Respectfully)

If you got to the end I sincerely apologise, you shouldn't have done that, but know you know the thoughts that have plagued my brain about this AU. Whilst there were some lighthearted demands in there just know they were all made in good faith and is just an indicator of how much I've enjoyed this AU. Its honestly been so fun and I hope it gets a comeback in some way.

Now it's time to bet on who the BAs gonna be about next month!

[izloveshorses]

Hello, can u pls share a face claim/how u envision Anya and Dmitry for five of ur fics (of your choosing) 💕

(Also u can’t use Derek or Christy, or any performer who has professionally held the role 😈)

ooooooooh i LOVE this question. what a challenge!! it's hard not to picture christy and derek at this point, especially in canonverse fics, but i have collected a few other faceclaims over the years for aus, i must admit. some of these will be predictable lol but some i feel like you will just have to trust me on. (given we've been friends for nearly 5 years now i feel like you know my brain enough to Get It 🙈)

this gets a little long bc of course we have to include visual references, so the list is under the cut:

obligated to start with the road trip au, as it's my current wip: Kennedy McMann and Alex Saxon

you might know them both from the cw's nancy drew. i chose them for this au bc i feel like they got the soft friendship/ angsty hurt/comfort thing going. look at them it's perfect

paris au (or other modern-ish aus where they live in paris): Alba Baptista and Lucas Bravo

also pls look at them together in Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris (2022)! dimya <333

assistant!Dmitry au (or other modern aus, especially ones that take place in nyc, such as the neighbors au): Zoey Deutch and John Bubniak

you probably know Zoey, but John was the model for ps4 spiderman my beloved. nyc romcom when

baseball au (or any fic where they're younger, even in canonverse): Sonya Priss and Fedor Fedotov

yes, of Silver Skates (2020) fame. every time i think of anya and dmitry as 17 and 19, or just an au where they meet before the revolution, i can't help but picture these two. look at them those are my kids

i know i said no canonverse fics, but i feel like we gotta do the ghost au: Audrey Hepburn and (don't laugh at me but) Robert Pattinson (but like specifically the way he looks in Remember Me (2010))

listen. i couldn't not include audrey on this list at least once, given she was the inspiration for animated anya. and as for robert? look at him. he's exhausted. that's what dmitry looks like for the entirety of this fic. that man is so tormented

honorable mentions?

julia roberts and young hugh grant (this felt like cheating since i'm writing a notting hill au rn lol) amy adams young matt damon????? milo ventimiglia lol

[mlmvoreconfessionals]

Milo from pokemon pit and pec vore prompts if you havent done them yet? Love your work <3

I’d love to do some more for him! Been a while.

"Like this?" M.ilo asks, folding his massive arms behind his head. He's a little flustered by it, especially with the phone flittering around him, but he had promised R.aihan to help him with one of those 'streams' today. He didn't fully get it--M.ilo had never taken much interest in the Internet and its inner workings--but a promise was a promise. Even if it meant he had to be shirtless...

"Perfect!" R.aihan says with a grin. "Hold that pose, big guy. I'll be right back." With a big grin, the fellow gym leader leaves the locker room. M.ilo was flustered by the phone still capturing his form, but he couldn't think of anything to say to it, so he simply stood there waiting. R.aihan did eventually come back, though. With guests, even!

"These six are today's lucky guests!" R.aihan says to his phone. "So with their help, we'll be giving everyone an exclusive look at how M.ilo gets that big, burly bod of his."

M.ilo's face goes pink. "Huh? What do you mean? What are--nnff!" M.ilo groans and tenses a bit as he feels people on him. Those 'guest stars' had surrounded him while he was distracted. Two had planted their faces right into the man's exposed pits a third was fondling his chest.

"We've got two groups here!" R.aihan goes on. "And they're going to be racing to see who can last longer in M.ilo's body. Looks like group one is already getting acquainted."

"Th-They're what?" M.ilo asks. He's not against free food--what g.ym leader doesn't snack on their opponents from time to time?--but this was a bit sudden for him. He doesn't get to think about it before he feels people pushing into him, a pair of heads sinking into his pits and hands shoving their way between his pecs. He groans and closes his eyes, flexing his muscles and quickly sucking more of his prey in. It only takes three tight flexes to totally put them away.

"Look at that!" R.aihan says, grinning. "Didn't even take a minute for him to pack away some guys. Let's see how long they can last against his grinding muscles."

The answer was--not long. The post R.aihan has M.ilo in doe a good job to show off his bulging pecs and biceps at the same time, so the camera catches each flex and squeeze over the wiggling lumps in the farmer's muscles. The first crunch of bones echoes out from his chest after only a few flexes, and his arms follow suit. Each flex after that comes with a cacophony of cracks and pops and crunches as those massive muscles effortlessly break down live meat into nothing but pure mass. It only takes a couple minutes before M.ilo had broken down all three men, all that remains being a bit of extra swell to his muscle mass.

"And that's time!" R.aihand says. "Now, for group two..." He turns to the last three, who seem a lot more hesitant about what's going to happen to them. They all realized that, even if they did outlast those three, there wouldn't be anything salvageable of them left anyway. But the way out is locked, and with a rather forceful hand, R.aihand forces them into M.ilo's muscles. They squirm a bit more than the first group, but M.ilo puts them away just as easily.

If anything, their struggling only makes the process faster. His pecs flex together, and there's a short scream followed by very noisy crunches. M.ilo's pecs swell a bit and there's nothing left. His arms take a few more flexes, but before long, they've done the same to the feisty meals put in as well. That wasn't even half the time and all three are gone.

"Looks like group one is the winner!" R.aihand says with a grin. "I'm sure they would appreciate that but..." He gives M.ilo's chest a few pats. "...adding to this is reward on its own, right? Maybe we'll see how he does with more meat next time! Just be ready for your chance to get crushed into mass!"

"Next time..?" M.ilo asks, still blushing softly. He's never eaten like this so publicly...but it did feel kind of nice. He wouldn't mind being in more of these 'streams' if this is what he's going to be doing on them. Heck...maybe he'll even get a chance to meet some new fans out and about. He's heard that R.aihan will gulp down anyone who asks, no matter where they are. That doesn't sound so bad to M.ilo anymore.

"Next time!" R.aihan agrees. "We'll put your muscles to the test for everyone to see!"

M.ilo smiles just a bit and he subconsciously flexes again. "Then...I'll be waiting."

[nuatthebeach]

come let's walk for miles

thanks @narukoibito for giving me the prompt "don't go. stay." and just encouraging me to pop out of my shell and post again! i had so much fun writing this drabble!

title is the english translation of the song "aao milo chalein" in the bollywood movie "jab we met."

comment here on AO3.

The crisp crunch of the snow pressing against his boots is but a dim noise to his ears, easily muffled by the heavy weight of his clouded thoughts. Whimsical lights hang about the village, like fairies dancing in homes of glass, bringing life to an already lively and bustling community. Rich aromas of spices and bakery goods waft to meet his reluctantly curious nose. From a distance, he can see children holding hands, prancing in circles, books resting on the grass not far from them.

Suddenly, memories of too pristine drapery, burnt bread served in small portions, cold spaces and even colder company flash before him, and he reconciles instantly that for the person beside him who deserves a thousand shimmering lives, the one he could provide is laughably unfit.

He chooses instead to clear his throat from the overwhelming constriction building within. “Welcome home."

Harry isn't even sure she hears him until her voice reaches his ears this time, less strained but equally quiet. "Thanks. You've…we've come a long way together. I couldn't have returned home without your map and knowledge of the terrain and…well, your company."

Long way together, indeed. He starkly recalls the night they first met a month ago; he was nearly passed out at the pub, his ratty travelers’ attire dragging on the floor. In contrast, her finely stitched gown - though roughly hiked halfway up to her knees - allowed her easy passage to approach him and demand guidance back to her home. One of her many demands from him, as it would soon appear. He listened as she spoke of how a neglectful carriage had failed to pick her up while in town doing business across the country. Locals suggested that he - a troublesome albeit spatially adept traveler - could help her.

A bag of coins had clanged against the table before Harry could form the words "what's in it for me?"

Turns out, there was a reason why she was in such a rush to return home so quickly. It's the same reason why after weeks of navigating rocky territory and shady inns - all made surprisingly easy with her laughter by his side - he musters all the courage he can…

And shrugs these complicated feelings off.

"For all your talk of disliking sugar, you sure do come from a place with a lot of honey cakes." He lifts the sweet sample to his lips, sinking his teeth in appreciatively. Something to keep his mouth busy, at least.

Unfortunately, it doesn't seem to work very well. "Mmh, nice. You can really feel the corn amongst all that syrup. Good to get your vegetables in."

She sighs, her breath misting the air from his periphery.

"Honestly, I'm quite jealous." That last word chokes in his throat. "You've been stopped four times already with people offering you this. They're that excited to see you again."

"Harry - "

He can’t bloody stop himself, can he, because the next thing he knows: "I bet Dean would have this waiting for you right by the door." The intake of her breath is sharp, not so much a warning but a tense silence. "It must be in the betrothed handbook or something. 'Feed thy wife or face wrath.'"

"Very funny."

"That's why we came here, isn't it?" The reason why she was in such a rush. The reason why the ring sits on her finger, a delicate piece he caught his eyes tracing several times over the past month.

A reminder that she's not his, that she can't ever be his - he's a lonesome wolf, strings to his abusive aunt cut years ago, his proper language a residual to his pseudo-rich past. And she. Well, she's of the lifestyle of everything he left behind, of everything he hates.

So why does he not hate her?

He pauses at a nearby cart to pour himself some ale to mask his fidgeting.

"Harry."

Jaw clenching, he forces down his drink in burning gulps, really letting the seconds drag. "Ginny,” he mimics.

He hears her huff.

"So this is it, then. You're just going to keep evading my departure? Through flimsy humor?”

Pushing through the sharp pain her words evoke, Harry takes in a harsh breath. "There's nothing to evade. You're getting married. And based on everything you've yapped in my ear about so far, to a really nice man."

"Yes…but that was before - "

Smashing the remnants of the honey cake in between his fingers, more decadent and rich than anything he's had the pleasure of tasting in his meager life, he snaps in two. "What should I say, Ginny? Don't go? Stay? Maybe Dean likes to whisper sweet nothings to you, but personally, as a mere acquaintance, I - "

Her fingers tug at his arm with unsurprising strength, forcing herself into his space. His stomach can't help but lurch at how the sunset paints her hair in ways that pedestal the lush sky only second to her attention.

"An acquaintance?” Her voice falters. “Is that all I am to you? Just…more than a stranger?"

He swallows, a chill settling low in his gut. Cruelly, he delivers the blow anyway.

"With time, acquaintances become strangers too."

Sure enough, the rageful tempest that battles its way across her fierce features is nothing in comparison to the aching realization that he is breaking her heart all the same. Like his damage was decreed collateral from the start of time, he watches her pieces shatter too.

"Well," Ginny whispers, eyes glassy, voice severe. "Allow me to speed things up for us then."

Harry doesn't turn to watch her leave. If he did, he might never stop.

[penncilkid]

Hello hello! My name is PK and I'm a fervent enjoyer of non-canon ships. I'm not a fic writer exactly but I've been told "Where's the fic OP" twice now by my friends. So I thought I'd format one of my fic-adjacent ramble sessions for Tumblr!

Pairing: Milo/David [No Sweetheart or Angel, wanted to go easy on myself] [MDNI*] [Let's call this "canon reminiscent /lh]

Word Count: 3.2 K

*(I wouldn't consider this smut by any means but there's a few lines that make me want to add this as a tag)

[As a reminder, I diverge from canon quite a bit with this. This is just one route I could see leading to Milo and David getting together]

My vision for this pair is that they start getting closer in a more than just friends way a little bit after Gabe dies. Not immediately because have some decorum, but it would start during that transition period for David as Alpha. Asher is trying his best to help but is also grappling with the whole Beta thing, so he feels like he's in a complex position. But him and Milo can see that David's not doing great so Milo's like "Fine, I'll bite the bullet" and tries to confront David about it.

At first it's subtle, asking David if he needs help with something, if he wants anyone from the pack to stay after for meetings, if he wants them to pick up a shift so he can have the day off, etc. But David is too stubborn to accept any of it so he keeps brushing them off. This ends up culminating in a "fight" one day where Milo again tries to make an offer that David shoots down. Milo sort of snaps and is like "Alright, what the fuck gives? Why are you acting like you're too good to get help anymore, David?" David says he doesn't know what he's talking about, Milo calls bullshit. It doesn't turn into a screaming match but it's enough of a heated argument that Milo storms out of the den.

In the days following, Milo either calls out sick, switches shifts with people, anything to avoid seeing David. David brushes it off, thinking he's got more important things to worry about if Milo's going to throw a fit. But of course, Ash being Ash means this stuff can't fly for long, so he tells both David and Milo that he needs help with something at an odd time of day and then "coincidentally" doesn't show up. When Milo gets to the den, he's real tempted to get back in his car and leave. It's a mix of still being a little frustrated with David and being embarrassed that this "fight" has gone on for as long as it has. He walks up to David (who was waiting outside for Asher) and is like "Lemme guess, you're waiting for Ash?" "How did you...?" "Fucker told me the same thing."

They do some lighthearted bitching about their friend, which eases the tension. There's a bit of silence and right as Milo gets ready to apologize for speaking out of turn, David apologizes first. He acknowledges that Milo was right in what he said and that he's been struggling with everything changing, but he hasn't wanted it to show on the outside. Milo makes a light jab at David, "Alright well did you really expect that to go over my head? C'mon, David, we've known each other since we were kids. Gimme some credit" To make up for it, the two of them go out to eat, all that's chill. Cut to when Milo gets home, maybe has a drink or two as he's winding down. David sends him a message, confirming he made it home alright (because I've always latched onto the idea that he's super attentive to that given what happened with Gabe). Milo sends David a quick reply and wonders why seeing that message made him feel some type of way (romantic? Who knows, not Milo that's for sure /lh)

Now if I remember correctly, the audio where Angel learns about Gabe, it's been around 3 years since his passing. Keeping this in mind and in the spirit of being canon reminiscent, I think around/after this point is when Milo's feelings for David start to really bubble up. They've been building for awhile, much to his dismay. He's trying to play it cool, but his heart's in his damn throat any time David touches him casually or whenever the two of them are assigned to a job together. And he knows it's getting bad enough where he might lose focus, so he swallows his pride and does what he's been avoiding for months, if not years: asking Asher for advice.

"Alright, look: You and me both know that you had a lil crush on David when we were in high school. How the fuck did you get over it? I'm drowning, Ash." If this conversation is happening on the phone or at Asher's place, cue him yelling to Babe that they owe him 20 bucks (because it's funny to me <3). Asher asks Milo why he wants to get over the feelings so bad and Milo's like "'Cause this is David we're talking about." "So what?" "We've got... history. That complicates shit all on its own." "And?" "....Alright fine, and I'm also terrified he's not gonna feel the same. Happy?" Asher is being the little shit that he is, putting his arm around Milo's shoulder. "Listen. If I know David— And believe me, I do— What ya gotta do is be direct. If he doesn't feel the same, that's one thing. But if you even want a chance, you gotta be straight up with him. If you tried to ask him out casually, he'll just assume you're being friendly because that's what you are right now. Friends." Milo takes all this in and is like, "Nope, just gonna shove these feelings down for eternity." "I'll tell Marie—" "I will beat your ass." He knows Asher has a point though. Any idea Milo might've had could be easily construed as them just chilling as friends. But he doesn't really act on anything for awhile.

Now, before we get into the next phase of this, some added backstory: David had a crush on Milo growing up. I'm thinking a little after high school (won't say college necessarily since I don't picture them in college but like, young adulthood phase). He'd always found Milo incredibly attractive and found his boldness admirable in general. David was constantly thinking about what he had to do for others and how to make the pack look good (since he was the Alpha's kid then the pack Beta). Milo always felt incredibly refreshing to be around. But he figured Milo would never be interested in because David's just himself so he eventually got over it. Cut to that argument him and Milo had a few years back. He remembers that night when they made up because dinner had been fine but all he could do was focus on Milo. It felt nice to just hang out with him without the pressures of being Alpha. And he enjoyed listening to him talk about anything because he always had a strong opinion. I think around then is when his past feelings awoke again but there was a new obstacle: He was the Alpha of the pack. It wasn't like before, things were different. He'd never have a chance to pursue Milo without feeling like he had pushed Milo into a corner somehow. So again, he tried his best to push his feelings down, appreciate and value the friendship he had with Milo and leave it at that. It was enough to just have Milo in his life, even if it wasn't going to go any further.

Back to how these two end up together: the Moonbound Solstice. They're all at David's place, everyone's having a good time together. Milo's chilling, talking to someone from the pack when Asher cuts in and is like "Sorry, just gonna steal him for a minute" "Ash, you can't just— AY okay okay I'm coming" They walk off, somewhere far from the kitchen to minimize the risk of David overhearing. In hushed voices: "Alright, so what's the plan?" "Ash, what the fuck are you talking about?" "Milo, it's the Solstice. This is the perfect time to make a move." "Are you out of your damn mind? This is the last place I should be hitting on— On you know who." "What are you talking about it, it's perfect! The whole pack's here, no one would even notice." "Look, he's already got his hands full hosting the Solstice at his own place for a change. I'm just gonna chill and enjoy the night for what it is." Asher is pouting as Milo walks off, immediately thinking of what he can do to help nudge David Milo's way. (Unhinged alt route: Ash giving Milo a flat so he has to stay the night)

Cut to the end of the night, people are heading out and whatnot. David is subtly trying to get people out because he loves his pack but his senses need a break. Asher (+ Babe, package deal) and Milo offer to stay and help clean, and David lets them since it's only a handful of people. Milo's keeping his cool, vibing to the much lower playing music when: "Babe, what do you mean you have a work call you need to take tonight? Can't it wait?" "Sorry, Ash, I need to be home in the next twenty minutes" "Alright. Guess we're heading early." Milo thinks nothing of it until he makes eye contact with Babe. They smile with a sickeningly sweet wave. Those bastards. Before Milo can try to rope Ash into staying somehow, the two of them are gone.

When Milo and David are alone, Milo tries his best to focus on the task at hand because feelings or not, he's not gonna do a shit job at cleaning so David has to clean up after him. Once the bulk of it is done, David mentions that he needs to grab something from upstairs or maybe says he's going to go change out of his clothes (I imagine he put on something better looking but not as comfortable for the solstice). Milo's chill with that, getting his keys, phone, other personal belongings together. He happens to slip into the kitchen though, stealing a bit more of the food David had made for the solstice. While he's stealing (said with love), he hears very close to his ear: "You can take some home if you want." He nearly punches David, gripping his arm as he tries to slow his heart rate. "You tryin' give a guy a heart attack, Shaw (/lh)" because he legit didn't hear David come back downstairs. "Maybe if you weren't busy trying to steal some food, you would've heard me— Greer (/lh)." Milo rolls his eyes with a grin and there's a moment of quiet when he realizes his hand is still on David's arm.

He lets go, clearing his throat, confirming that it's actually cool if he wants to take some of the food home with him. David says sure, giving him a container to fill (or Milo takes whatever the food came in, not sure what I'm picturing David's cooking set-up to be). David walks Milo to the door (as a good host does) and the two of them talk in the doorway for a few minutes about upcoming jobs, responsibilities, all that formal shit. There's another quiet moment as the two of them watch each other. Inside, Milo's like "Alright, no one else is here. This is as good a chance as any." The second he gets ready to ask David out on a more proper date, David instead says "Good night, Milo" and essentially closes the door in his face. Milo stares for a moment before cursing himself in Spanish (my HC), walking to his car and muttering about how "Of course he was just being polite, what the fuck were you thinking?" On the other side of the door, David is groaning into his hands, face warm as he tries to calm down because he came way too close to making a move on Milo.

Intermission (Wow, you're still reading? Damn /pos): I wanted to think of how to push them closer to a confession before they actually get together and eventually settled on "sickfic shenanigans". Insert deliriously sick Milo whose phone died and he can't find a charger for the life of him so David goes over to his place to check on him. Initially, he's trying to get David to leave because "I can handle myself fine". But that doesn't last long because admittedly, he feels like shit and has been for the past 12 hours. The dynamic quickly turns into Milo convincing David to stay then being so sick his filter is hanging on by a thread (/lh). "Why do you have to go rush off so fast?" "Milo, I have a pack to take care of—" "First off, I'm part of the pack— (cue Milo coughing) And second, they'll be fine without their Alpha for a few hours." Milo's playing it off as lighthearted but David can tell he doesn't want to be cooped up inside alone on top of feeling like shit physically. A little later, when Milo's on the verge of falling asleep (as many do while sick), he's like "Y'know, it's fucking wild you don't got a mate, David. Like look at you. Doesn't make sense" David laughs at first, thinking Milo's sick delirious (which he is, but that's affecting his filter, not the validity of his words). He's like "ay, why are you laughing, I'm serious. Look— if I were ya mate, I'd treat ya right. I'd cook, I'd work extra hours so I could see ya, I'd make sure we're the best dressed wherever we go— not to mention, I got a great dick." David writes this off as Milo being sick and spewing nonsense but never forgets the words. Meanwhile, Milo (after getting over the sickness) is convinced he dreamt saying any of that to David.

Back to the present, David's been a bit stressed with work as of late so Asher suggests the pack take a trip/weekend vacation. He says he'll handle figuring everything out, letting David take a backseat this time. They go somewhere, a resort, a hotel, something that involves people having rooms they're staying in. Everyone's having a good time, chilling all day, night rolls around. David's in his room when he realizes he forgot to pack something— can be anything. Toothpaste, a charger, something for his hair, the specifics aren't important. He texts Asher, asking if he has the thing he forgot and Ash is like yeah. David asks Ash which room he's staying in, Ash texts him the room number. David leaves his room, goes there, knocks and waits patiently. Door opens, and who's standing there? Milo, shirtless and in the middle of brushing his teeth or some shit.

David's checking his phone to see if he went to the wrong room but nope, numbers match. "Asher must've made a typo. I just needed to borrow something from him." "Well, what did you need? Maybe I have it." Before David can leave, Milo's busy ushering him in, closing the door so he can finish brushing his teeth before finding what David needs. They're making idle conversation, talking about what they spent their respective days doing. While Milo's talking, David's kind of staring at his back, not processing a word he's saying. Milo turns around and notices and is like "What? Don't tell me there's a bug on me and you didn't say shit? (/lh)" and David is trying to think of a good cover up. Milo tries to lighten the mood, says he's just messing with David before going to find whatever David's looking to borrow. He finds it, hands it over when for a split second, his eyes land on David's crotch. David leaves shortly there after but all night, Milo's like "...That was a boner... why the fuck did he have a boner?" But again, Milo's mind is like "Nah, I'm reading this wrong somehow."

Now, I'm painting a picture: it's the next day, Ash, Milo, David, few others from the pack plan on doing something together while on the trip. Asher gets there a bit late but is somehow on time compared to David, who shows up minutes after (that man was up all night pining). Ash notices Milo's not here yet and has a devious idea (as always). He asks David to go check on Milo so they can go. "Why me?" "You were the last one here, it's only fair. Now shoo." David rolls his eyes but goes, getting to Milo's room, knocking. He can hear Milo's definitely inside because he's cursing and complaining. He knocks again before the door swings open to reveal a mildly disgruntled Milo Greer (my vision is he's in pants and a white tank with his name chain. The in between outfits outfit).

He asks what David is doing there, David explains that Asher sent him to pick up Milo, Milo's like "What time is it— Jesus fucking Christ." The issue at hand is Milo can't find an article of clothing that he swears he put in his bag. He's been trying to get by with alternative options but none of them look the way he wants them to, which is making him quietly lose his shit. David stifles a laugh, to which Milo lasers in on. "And what do you think you're laughing at?" "You haven't changed since we were kids, that's all." Milo scoffs but admittedly, the sentiment puts a smile on his face. Almost immediately after that moment, he finally finds what he was looking for (tucked under something, irrelevant right now). He starts to get ready, pulling his shirt on, buttoning it up but let's say a button or two is fighting him for whatever reason. Without a second thought, David walks up, buttoning it for Milo. Milo's having an internal moment as a result, staring at David's hands then his face. David finishes and looks up to catch Milo staring. He clears his throat, saying something about waiting in the hall when Milo catches his wrist.

"Can I take you out on a date?" "What?" "I don't know what or where yet, but I just— I know this is probably stupid and I'm shooting myself in the foot here, but Asher's gonna kick my ass if I don't do something so— Can I take you out on a date, David?" David's taken aback. "Wait... so you were serious. That time you were sick. All that stuff you said about being a good mate for me." "THAT WASN'T A DREAM?" Cue Milo letting go of David's hand and nearly cursing himself out, running a hand through his hair because now he's mortified. "I can't believe I actually said all that shit to you—" "Did you mean it?" "Huh?" For the first time, David's not looking at Milo like a friend or pack Alpha. The look in his eyes screams pure, unfiltered attraction. "Yes or no, Milo." Milo's face is hot, "Course I meant it. I'd treat you great if you gave me the chance to show you." David steps closer, gripping Milo's face gently and tilting it up towards his. "Show me." Milo grins before pulling David down to him, the kiss they shared far better than the ones he remembered from spin the bottle games they'd played as teens. This kiss felt deeper and closer than that could ever compare. The moment they break away, gasping for air, Milo's busy unbuttoning his shirt. David asks what he's doing, to which Milo replies "I'm about to savor as much time with you as I can before I have to see Asher's smug face. Unless you'd like to explain how your hair became a mess between the time you left to find me and when you get back?" David laughs before pulling Milo to him again.

So yeah, that concludes this fic adjacent ramble (/lh)! I love rarepairs and rambling, so if people enjoy this, I may format some other rambles as they arise. I think I've got some Sam/David tucked away somewhere, so let me know. If you actually read all of this, wow, okay, thank you (/lh /pos)

[masterqwertster]

For the October One Word, how about fever and Ashton?

Prompt Well, this prompt inspired me to write something that fits into Rockin' It, so into the collection it goes.

As if piecing Ashton back together with gold and glass and grit wasn’t demanding enough, Milo now has to deal with their friend with a fever.

Ashton is an absolutely awful patient.

Milo has to get the genasi’s temperature down. They’re pretty sure they could cook an egg on Ashton’s skin right now, which is absolutely not normal. They can’t even imagine how much Ashton’s insides are cooking right now. 

And the stupid fucker won't stay in the ice bath. 

They get it. Ice baths are fucking cold and no fun. In fact, Milo has a very good idea of how unpleasant it is because their attempts to keep Ashton in the fucking bath have soaked them in freezing water. It's simply un-fucking-fair that even hobbled by recovery from a near-death injury and a serious fever, the earthkin is still more than strong enough to give Milo trouble.

Regardless of what a pain-in-the-ass Ashton is being about the whole thing, they need him to stay in the ice bath long enough for the cold to sink past that thick stone hide of his to actually bring down the genasi's fever. He can burrow under a heavy pile of blankets after (but Milo’s not getting under there with him. They're cold enough without cuddling chilled rock).

Milo sneezes and shivers.

"I swear if I get sick from this–," they grumble under their breath.

"You'll stop with the ice baths?" Ashton hopefully sniffles, tired of trashing for a little bit and shuddering from the cold themself.

"Once your fever fucking breaks," Milo sighs. "Until then, we've got to cool your insides, you big baby."

"'S not my fault I've nev'r been sick before," they grump, slumping in the tub.

"Yeah right. Everyone gets sick as a kid," Milo says, remembering a few of their own worse times of it when they were little.

"I didn'. Stones don' get sick," Ashton insists, the second part said with a cadence that suggests it was something said to Ashton with some regularity.

Which Milo supposes might be true. Packed places like an orphanage, or even the Fownsee Hollow, tend to have sickness sweep through then with some regularity, infecting the majority of the community before it fizzles out. And they can’t recall Ashton ever succumbing to the latest wave in all the time they've known him. So it’s not out of place for someone to come up with such a stupid reason for why the earthkin can weather the mess unaffected. After all, it’s not like Ashton’s the only one out there with a general resistance to sickness.

Milo shakes their head, dismissing the rather useless musings.

"Well, you're sick now, so please just behave so we can get through this as painlessly as possible. Please? "

"...'Kay. Bu' no more ice baths," they mumble, eyes drifting closed.

And that's going to be a whole other problem when it's time to get Ashton out of the bath, but Milo will take the win where they can get it.

[loorain]

Sims 4 Fontenot Legacy - Robin and Sigrid's Wedding Day

After what seems like a centuries-long engagement between Robin and Sigrid, their wedding day is finally here! The weather is beautiful, perfect for a day of celebration, and the venue is buzzing with excitement as the couple and those closest to them get ready for the day.

The men's quarters is considerably quieter (as it often is 😆) with just Robin, Colt, Haru, and little Juno hanging out. Still, they're enjoying the gentle morning, resting as they prepare themselves for a full day of festivities.

Meanwhile, in the bridal suite, there's a buzz of excitement threatening to burst through the windows as Sigrid's closest family members gussy themselves up for the wedding. Where's the bride, you ask?

Scarlett (through the door): Sigrid, doing okay in there?

Sigrid: Yeah! All good! Be out soon!

And soon enough, Sigrid did reveal herself to her family waiting for her.

The older sims in the room crowd around the door, gawking as the bride shows herself for the first time.

Anya: Sigrid! You look stunning!

Yolanda: I second that! You look so beautiful, sis.

Scarlett: Oh Sigrid... you're the perfect bride, really. Are you ready for this?

As Sigrid's family looks on at her in awe of her beauty and grace, Sigrid feels an overwhelming calm wash over her. The journey to this moment has been long, stressful, and arduous, but it also makes the moment that much more precious. After waiting for years, it's finally her turn, and the calm she feels tells her she's making the right decision, so she looks to the ladies (plus Sabrina 🤭) with confidence as she responds.

Sigrid: I'm ready.

The ceremony begins with everyone important in attendance! Sigrid's remaining siblings are able to make it, as are all of her nieces and nephews (minus Harley's kid who's still a newborn... or infant. I can't remember 😆) and Harley's wife Hajar, who Sigrid only just got to meet on the day of the wedding. Most of Robin's family is here as well, from his sisters Anya and Matilda to his large extended family. Sigrid and Robin even decided to invite Sabrina's friends and their partners, as well as people like Juno's father Marquise. Needless to say, it's the biggest wedding event of the season!

One of the very last invites to go out, however, was one that Sigrid tossed in right at the end: Coty has made it to the wedding all the way from Sulani, with little Milo as his plus one. Having traveled from so far away, he barely makes it in time for the beginning of the ceremony and slips into an empty seat near the back. His expression is hard to read, however. Is he calm? Tired? Forlorn? Perhaps... yearning?

Robin: Sigrid... It seems like no time has passed between the first time I met you and now, but so much in our lives has changed. We've lost a lot but also gained so much more, including two beautiful children who are the lights of my life. You have been the most wonderful partner, loving me through my shortcomings and pitfalls, and I have dedicated my life in return to doing the same for you. Today, in front of all of your family and friends, I am making this dedication known to all, that as your husband I will love and cherish you and our little family, support you through the good and bad times, and practice patience, grace, and understanding through all points of our lives together.

Sigrid: Robin, you have been a joy as a partner all these years. You've held me up when I wasn't strong enough to hold myself. You've encouraged me, reassured me, and always made sure I knew how much I was loved and adored. Our lives together have been a rollercoaster, from growing into a family of four before we could even blink to dealing with all of life's hardships. I know one of the hardest moments for you was losing your father before he could see you become the man you are now, and you have always wanted to be a fraction of the man he was to your mom. Well, I feel pretty confident in saying that you have surpassed him, just as he would have wanted. And now, as we declare our devotion to each other in front of everyone we know and care for, I promise to be the woman deserving of such a wonderful man. I promise to support your dreams, lift you as you have lifted me in times of weakness, and focus on growing our lives together as a team.

After an exchanging of rings after their vows, the two seal their marriage with a kiss, officially becoming Mr. and Mrs. Lay! Finally, after years of planning, dreaming, and anticipation, these two finally tied the knot! Time to celebrate!

After some obligatory photos, the newlyweds make their way into the reception area to continue celebrating the day with all their guests, making sure to greet and thank as many people as they can get to. Sigrid and Robin are still parents though, and during the day she finds herself having to give Audrey a little extra attention. As a result, she doesn't even notice when a familiar face walks up behind her.

Sigrid: Oh- Coty! Didn't even see you there!

Coty: Yeah, you were in full storytelling mode! No worries, just wanted to give my congratulations.

Sigrid pulls him in for a hug.

Sigrid: Thank you! I'm glad you could make it. Is Milo here?

Coty: Oh yeah, probably socializing with anyone willing to listen. Not very often he's around so many sims.

Sigrid: We've gotta change that for sure. We still gonna plan to put that playdate together?

Coty: I'll be in town the rest of the weekend. If you guys have some time, give me a call.

Sigrid: I think I can do that.

The party continues on, but the newlyweds slip away for a bit. Why you ask? Well for starters, Sigrid changes into a more comfortable outfit for a night of dancing, but she also decides to show it off to Robin first along with another surprise.

Robin: What is all this?

Sigrid: Just a little something I set up to let us have a private moment. Wanted to give us both a chance to decompress a little during all of this stuff. You like?

Robin: I love.

Sigrid: This spot has the best view of the river. Makes you realize how big the world we live in is. Puts everything into perspective.

Robin nods, a comfortable silence growing between them before he speaks again.

Robin: What a day, yeah?

Sigrid smiles.

Sigrid: Tell me about it. We finally did it. We're married.

Robin: Yeah. You're my wife.

Robin looks at Sigrid with unfiltered care and adoration, admiring her beauty in the soft glow of the candles. It was never a doubt in his mind, but the moment proves more than ever before that he's chosen the best partner he could've ever picked. Sigrid grins at him, a glow on her cheeks, a life within her eyes that Robin hasn't seen shine quite as brightly in the past years of stress and life. Looking at her, he knows she must feel the same way.

He pulls her closer, letting the moment flow through the both of them. Sigrid falls into the gesture without hesitation, looking upon her new husband with swelling affection.

Robin: This has been the most perfect day. All our family and friends here, our girls... this feels like a dream.

Sigrid: I know what you mean. Everything's been just right. Although I have to say this feels pretty normal.

Robin: This?

Sigrid: Us. Together. I mean, outside of the fancy clothes and venue, everything else feels just like it always does. You've been my husband for a long time. This was just formalities.

Robin: I'll admit there were many times when I caught myself referring to you as my wife during our engagement. Just felt natural. Now I don't have to hold back anymore.

Sigrid: You never did. You've always had my heart. I love you, Robin. Forever and always.

Robin: I love you too.

The duo eventually head back down after spending some time together, living it up on the dance floor. Needless to say, the wedding was a huge success, and Sigrid and Robin look forward to many years of marital bliss!

[iamknicole]

House Party

Bloodline Family Series

Parties were pretty much an every weekend thing for Eli, Koda and Milo. Sometimes during the week too. But they never had their own. For almost a month, the cousins planned their party. Trinity and Jimmy were going to be out of town about an hour away, all their siblings were going to be with Grandpa King and Nana. Koda and Milo weren't sure where their parents would be but they knew they'd take the alone time.

"You're really gonna use Auntie Trin's glass punch bowl? Didn't we buy one from the store?" Milo asked walking into the kitchen.

Eli shrugged. "It was cracked. This is good, she never uses it anyway."

Milo shrugged emptying the snacks into the other party bowls they'd brought. Koda was lining sodas up on the counter.

"I found the beer your dad hid in the garage," Koda laughed.

"Cool, he won't even realize they're gone. Is ya friend still gonna dj, Lo?"

Milo nodded going to throw his trash away.

"Yeah, he should be here in a few. Did you remember to lock the doors upstairs?"

"Ummm, yeah, I think I did. I'll check in a few."

The furniture was moved out of the way, the dj was set up, snacks and drinks were out and the boys were dressed. Fortunately for them, their parents had actually called them to check on them so they didn't have to worry about that being a problem.

A couple hours later, Eli's house and backyard was full of people, classmates, friends from other schools and a lot of people they didn't know. They were enjoying themselves much more since it was their party.

While his cousins danced Koda was by the dj area, taking pictures and videos of them. The more Milo danced the harder he laughed. Going over to them he joined in on their vibe, it was contagious.

Eli continued to dance and looked around the party feeling eyes on him. When he caught the eyes of the girl watching him, he smiled then tapped his cousins.

"I'll be back, I think i spotted my situation for tonight," Eli said staring at the girl.

Koda laughed, "Handle your business, cuz."

"Hoe ass boy," Milo joked.

After slapping hands with his cousins, Eli crossed the party to get to his girl. He snuck up behind her putting his hands on her hips.

"What's up, beautiful? I don't think we've met." He whispered in her ear.

The girl turned around and smiled at him. "We haven't but I know who you are."

"Is that right?" Eli smirked.

"That's right, Eli. I'm Suzy. Now that we're acquainted I wanna see if what I heard is true."

Licking his lips, Eli looked around the room for a moment them back down at Suzy. "Damn you don't waste time but if that's what you want. Follow me."

Milo hit Koda's arm and pointed to Eli, who was climbing the stairs with Suzy behind him. Koda watched them, he couldn't help but laugh.

"That's your hoe ass cousin, Lo." Koda joked.

While the cousins enjoyed their party, Trinity was waiting on the hotel bed for Jimmy to get out of his shower after their date. They decided to take a two day trip to Tampa just because. Trinity checked her texts, her emails then the vivint app. It kept sending her notifications from the doorbell camera. She had been ignoring it figuring Eli and his cousins were going somewhere but it was over 50 plus notifications.

As she looked through the stills from the camera her anger boiled over. She knew these boys were into doing some bad shit but to have a party was something new.

Jimmy came from the bathroom immediately noticing his wife's frown.

"Damn, did I take too long?" He asked jokingly.

"I think," she paused taking a deep breath, "No. Your son and his cousins are having a party."

Jimmy sat on the bed beside her laughing, "They always go to parties. No big deal."

Dropping her phone in her lap, Trinity turned to look at her husband. "No, fool. Your son and his cousins are having a party in our house."

"The hell you mean he having a party? In my house? I known you playin."

Trinity tossed her phone to him, "Look at the pictures. All those kids going in our house with bottles and shit. What does that look like to you?"

Taking the phone, Jimmy looked through the stills his jaw clenching after every picture. He gave her the phone back then went to put his clothes and shoes on.

"Get dressed and packed, we goin back. Ima kill his ass and his damn cousins too," he huffed loudly.

Once the couple got on the road, they called the other two couples to let them know what their kids were up to. They were going to wait for Trinity and Jimmy to get back in town before going to confront their kids.

Meeting up two houses down, the parents stood together fussing about their children. They could hear the loud ass music from where they were standing and it only pissed them off more. Meanwhile inside the house, Eli was still upstairs, Koda was dancing with Parker and Milo in the backyard with Aunni and their other friends.

"Okay, I'm over waiting. Can we go snatch these lil bad asses up or what?" Apryl complained.

"I'm sayin," Kandice agreed, "That lil slow ass boy is gon wish he took his ass to that farm when I'm done."

The men followed their wives to the house and inside, Apryl was in front pushing the teenagers out of her way, Trinity and Jandoce glaring at any of them who looked like they wanted to say something back.

One of the girls stopped dancing and smiled at the parents. "Mrs, Reigns," she screamed over the music. "I didnt know you guys were coming!"

"Girl, get out my way," Kandice demanded pushing the girl out the way.

Jey saw where the DJ was and headed over to him. Roman spotted Koda while Jimmy looked around for Eli and found him leaving against the banister on the second floor talking to a girl. Apryl eyed the party goers, Kandice and Trinity went to the kitchen.

Roman grabbed Koda by the back of his shirt, yanking him away from Parker. Koda snatched away prepared to fight whoever it was, his face softened realizing it was his father.

"Fuck," Koda mumbled not taking his eyes off Roman.

Jey slammed the laptop the DJ was using closed and glared at the young boy daring him to say something. When the music stopped everyone looked to set what the problem was except Koda, he didn't move. Noticing the issue, Eli started to descend the stairs stopping in the middle when he saw Jimmy staring at him.

The teenagers started to complain about their being no music which angered the parents especially Apryl, who still hadn't found her son.

"Shut up! Where is Adrian?" Apryl yelled. They. stood dumbfounded staring at her making her suck her teeth. "Where the hell is Milo?"

Again, nothing.

Apryl nodded, "Oh so nobody knows where his light bright ass is? That's fine, so since no one knows I guess I'll start beating ass till someone talks."

About ten of the kids blurted out that he was outside prompting Jey to head that way. Jimmy and Roman continued to stare at their sons.

"Get yall asses out now and off anything is missin out of this house, I'll visit each of you personally until I find it." Apryl threatened loudly.

Kandice came out of the kitchen to stand beside her cousin. "Leave, now!"

The teens rushed out of the house as quickly as they could, trying to avoid getting too close to the parents. Eli tried to scoot pass his dad but Jimmy stepped on front of him. The ones in the backyard were long gone when they saw Jey. A few minutes later after the house was clear, Jey came walking back in the house with Milo behind him.

Trinity rushed out of the kitchen towards her son and snapped the back of his head making him flinch. "Not only did you have a damn party but you used my good dish! And one of your lil friend broke it!"

Eli moved back from her with his hands up. "My bad, I ain't think it would get broken."

Sliding her sandal off, Trinity started to hit her son with it, gushing with each hit. "These bad ass kids in my house tearing my damn house up."

Koda took a step back, Roman took a step forward. Koda did it again and Roman followed.

"Boy, if you take one more step away from your daddy it better be to run," Kandice spat.

"Why the hell would you participate in this, Adrian? You know my elevator don't go all the way up and neither does your daddy's." Apryl said moving closer to her frightened son. "Look at this mess, Adrian. Trash everywhere, shit is broken and is that beer and weed I smell on you?"

"No!" All three boys answered.

"We had a beer or two but we wasn't smoking, Auntie," Eli spoke up.

"Shut. Up." Trinity said through gritted teeth. "She wasn't talking to you."

Jimmy folded his arms across his chest, "How the he would you know what they did? You had your ass upstairs laid up with somebody daughter."

"Whose idea was this party?" Kandice asked.

"Who was it?" Roman barked.

The boys jumped and all three started to talk away the same time.

"Okay, okay, okay," Kandice yelled. "One at a time."

"Me and Koda," Eli said looking down.

"No," Apryl said shaking her head, "No, it wasn't. Try that again. Who?"

Koda nodded scratching his arm. "It was us, Auntie. It was me and Eli."

"Stop that lyin, Makai," Kandice warned in a low voice.

"I'm not lying," Koda stressed.

Roman eyed his son, "Do you really wanna piss me off more than I already am, Koda? Is that what you really wanna do?"

"N-no, sir. But I," Koda stuttered.

"It wasn't your idea or Eli's," Jey added. "It was Milo. Wasn't it, Milo?"

"Yes, sir." He mumbled quietly.

Apryl laughed to herself. "Its almost 3 in the morning and we're tired. We're gonna go upstairs and go to bed. You three stay down here, we'll finish this in the morning."

Eli raised his hand a bit, "But my room is up there."

"Not tonight it isn't," Trinity said smartly.

"Why are we stayin down here," Koda asked quickly.

"Cause you're gonna clean this house up before we get up. Don't even think about napping or going to sleep before this house is spotless," Kandice warned looked at all three boys.

Koda sucked his teeth and quickly regretted it, feeling his father chop his chest.

"Don't try me, Koda. You know better," Roman told him.

The parents went upstairs leaving their kids without a second glance. The boys didn't move right away until they heard the bedroom doors slam. They knew they going to have a long night and day.

[knockoutwritings]

ᴛ.ᴏ.ᴘ|ᴏɴᴇ ʟᴀsᴛ ɴɪɢʜᴛ|♤|

Requested by @azfg​

              ♫ I had a dream I was dying                           But I found nobody there             And if one last night is all that we've been given                         Let's live it like we care

A lone bottle of red wine sat upon an otherwise empty table. The gentle ministrations of jazz could be heard in the background of the extravagant apartment. Various works of art hung on walls like museums where only memories danced.

There was an uneasy feeling of loneness dwelling in the air. It swayed with the smell of alcohol and cigarettes, wafting about and leaving an impression of a desolate man in the atmosphere.

Seunghyun took a long sip of his wine, holding the glass by its rim as he bored holes into the marble floor. The only lights to be found were those that magnified the beauty of his paintings and so, he sat in the quiet shadows, a million and three thoughts swimming through his mind.

A part of him had wanted his brothers with him, another had only wanted you, and the third part of him had wanted his fans.

He chuckled in mild amusement at the thought of stuffing everyone in his apartment. It was comical to even consider that all three worlds could fit in the lone universe that was his home.

Three pieces of him, from the performer that was T.O.P, to the gentle and quiet man who was Senughyun Choi, and finally--to the scared being that was Seunghyun, the observant and still being that you seemed to only notice.

The clock he was always fond of now seemed like a good friend that suddenly chose to betray him--each passing second of its hand indicating how much closer he was to leaving the only life he'd ever known. This notion had filled him with dread and now that he was hours from his new reality, the dark feeling brimmed his soul to the cusp, up to the point where he wondered if it would begin to tear at his seams.

His phone vibrated, indicating that there was someone trying to get a hold of him, and though he wanted to answer, he realized he really needed to come to terms with Tomorrow and how the day was going to throw him into the void--suspended in the air for two years.

Two years in which he would become a silhouette--a ghost that must remain in a different realm, away from all the things and people he'd grown to love. And he was scared--scared that once he became a ghost--a shadow, he would not know how to return.

And would they forget him? Would all the fan and friends forget him? Would you?

This intrusive thought seemed to rattle his bones, and so he took a bigger sip of his wine in hopes the alcohol would numb the fright.

He'd fought so long to belong, sacrificed so much to build a legacy. He poured and ripped his soul into projects and concerts and pictures. So much so that he felt only but an once left in him. Would he ever get it back? Would people hand it back upon his return? Or would they turn their backs on him, content to immerse themselves into the next odd rapper?

"Sweetheart?"

The front door clicked open, and he adjusted his position in his chair, body facing the long hallway that would eventually greet him with you. And soon there you were, fingers on the wall as you peeked over, eyes not judging or sad, simply there--familiar and beautiful.

"Hey," he called out softly.

Seunghyun watched quietly as you stepped further into the solitary room and he instantly felt a warm feeling fill it, like contrasting colors and hues that always made a piece of art just that--art.

He hadn't expected to feel as relieved as he was to see you there, now sitting beside him in a chair he didn't mind being used as an actual chair. If anything, you could sit on all his chairs, knowing that nothing in this world was as beautiful and moving as you were to him.

Together you sat in silence, treading on devastation and acceptance. It must have been an hour before he finally looked at you again, smiling gently, like the drop of a feather--soft and quiet.

"I'm scared," he admitted, heart slicing in half and opening up against his chest at his proclamation. He hadn't actually voiced it until now. Until now, it was a myth filtering through the air, never admitting the truth, always avoiding it instead.

He felt your warm hand grip his and he relished the how well they wrapped around his. He wished that in some cosmic sort of way he could merge you into him so that he would never have to go another day without your bravery--without you.

"When you come back to me--to all of us, we're going to be here waiting with open arms and smiles."

You placed your hand on his jaw and turned him so that he could look at you, so that he could better imprint this moment as you were.

"I'll be waiting. Like Venus De Milo, still and patient until you come home."

He mulled over your words for a moment, and sitting there beside you, something clicked--something made sense.  With clarity now filling his once dim vision, he took your hand from his face and kissed it before setting it on his lap.

"Topless and all?"

Delighted in the sound of your laughter, he kissed you, and promised that he would come home to you, and to his brothers, and to his fans, rejuvenated and willing to do it all over again.  

And he would make love to you for one last night.