#look who finally remembered to make a tumblr post for this fic

[crushedbyhyperbole]

Whiskey on the Tongue

Pairing: Dean Winchester x Reader

Summary: You are the forbidden fruit Dean had always wanted to taste, and when you steal his whiskey the way you do, he is powerless to resist.

Words: 2.2k

A/N: This is my first ever Supernatural fic after having started watching the show just before Christmas. I know I'm late to the game but is it ever really too late to start loving a fandom? I've tried to make the reader generic in every way other than being cis-female, and Dean finding her hot.

It's been an absolute age since I wrote anything and probably longer since I posted anything here on Tumblr but I'm getting back into it now. Hopefully this finds its way to people in the Supernatural fandom who love a bit of Dean smut.

I hope you enjoy and, as always, I value your comments and feedback.

Warnings: Smut, explicit smut, alcohol consumption, mentions of people who have passed away, profanity as standard with pretty much everything I write.

*** Minors do not read or interact - 18+ content ***

Dean let his head fall back against the headboard, clenching his fists to try to distract himself from the deep ache in his left leg.  It had been falling asleep for well over an hour now, but he didn’t want to move and disturb you.

The door to his room in the bunker was closed.  Locked, in fact, though he did not remember doing it.  You didn’t comment or so much as move when Sam brayed on the door and tried the handle, calling out for Dean to return his book.  The very book that was in your hands right now.

“I need that book back, Dean.”  Sam grumbled.

“Not now, Sammy!”  Dean called back, hoping his little brother would just go away.

“I’m researching Nephilim to help Cas with the Kelly situation, Dean.  It’s important.”  Sam became more insistent.

“I said NOT NOW, SAM!”  Dean hollered with a kind of finality that even Sam wouldn’t argue with.

Outside the door, Sam huffed and stalked away.  Dean looked down to see you looking up at him from your position, lay on his bed.  Your head was resting on his left calf, his leg bent with his foot tucked under his right knee.  You had your knees up with your foot tapping along to his banging playlist, your jeans tight around your thighs and with your head tilted back he could see all the way down the deep V of your t-shirt.

He was going to hell.  Straight there.  Do not pass go.  Do not collect two hundred dollars.  And he probably deserved it.

He snapped his eyes up towards the ceiling but it was too late, he could feel himself stirring uncomfortably in his jeans.  If Bobby was alive he would have skinned him raw just for having you in his room.  Bobby was always protective of you, his niece.  You were only a couple of years younger than Sam but Bobby had made himself very clear that you were off limits.

“If you touch one single hair on her body, I’ll make you regret the day your balls dropped.  Do you hear me, boy?”

Bobby Singer.  That man did not mince his words.  And to this day, Dean had taken that threat as gospel.  Even now that Bobby was up there with the Angels, that son of a bitch would find a way to keep his word.

You shifted, causing a painful twang to shoot up his leg.  The reflexive grunt he failed to stifle made you look back up at him, giving him that glorious view again.

Dean decided he could die like this.  If having a dead leg was a legitimate threat to his life, he would go out happy with the view of your rack in that lacy black bra he could see within the V-shaped window of that too-tight t-shirt.

He raised his eyes, once again to heaven, asking Bobby to forgive him or give him strength or something because – god help him – he wanted to take you right then and there.

It wasn’t unusual for you to seek him out after a case when you didn’t want to be alone, but you didn’t want to talk.  You would just sit while he drank, reading or working on spells.  You said he quieted the noise in your head.  Hell, he wasn’t going to argue, you were a sight for sore eyes every time he came home.  You were wicked hot and sexy in a non-slutty way.  Not that slutty was bad.  Dean liked slutty.  But that wasn’t you, you were different.

A drink.  That’s what was missing.  Dean needed a damn drink, especially if you were going to torture him by laying on him all evening.

He reached over to his bedside unit, for the bottle he kept in there for special occasions.  A bottle of twenty-five-year-old Speyside single malt that he liberated from the British Men of Letters on his last interaction with Ketch.

The pour made you stir again but it wasn’t until he raised the cut crystal tumbler to his lips did you move.  Your hand came up and claimed the glass from underneath, twisting it as you sat up so as not to spill any.

“Where’s yours?”

The cheeky glint in your eye had him pursing his lips in mild annoyance.

“Don’t pout.”  You lifted the glass, turning it until the mark left by his lips touched yours and you sipped, looking him straight in the eye.

Dean’s jaw went slack.  The glisten of the whiskey on your lips and the satisfied hum you made when you swallowed – he swallowed unconsciously when you did – made his mouth go dry.  He had never seen you like this.

You moved to kneel on the bed and walked your way slowly closer, giving his leg a tap; an instruction to move it aside.  He did, causing pins and needles to infest his nerves like ants swarming on a log to escape a flood.

Knelt between his spread legs, you brought the glass to your lips again, sipping at the amber liquid.  You leaned in.

Dean watched you, breathing shallow, attention rapt.  You hadn’t so much as touched him, yet every nerve in his body felt like it was on fire in the best possible way.  The closer you got the shallower he breathed until he was almost holding his breath, looking down his nose at how close your lips were.  His eyelashes looked to flutter against his cheeks just as yours did when you brushed your whiskey dappled lips against his.

He refused to lick where you had been.  He couldn’t.  As soon as he tasted, he would pounce, and…

“Don’t.”  He croaked out when you moved to lay your lips on him once more.

You looked confused but at least you didn’t look hurt.  He couldn’t bear it if you looked hurt because of him.

“Bobby…”  Was all he could say through his constricting throat.

You smiled then, full of amusement, lips brushing against his, you whispered “he’ll understand.”

Dean tried not to respond to you but you coaxed his lips apart and teased your tongue to meet his, short circuiting his brain.  The taste of the scotch and the sweetness of your mouth made him groan.  He had fantasised about having you for years, but never did he think it would be you seducing him.

His hands on your hips guided you roughly to straddle him, the bulge in his jeans pushing up against you as you settled.  He took the glass from your hands and downed the contents, his eyes on yours as he dropped the glass carelessly on the bedside unit.

Your lips met his again but this time you devoured each other, tongues stroking together, moans stifled by each other’s mouths.  He trailed his hands up your body, dragging your t-shirt along with them.  Finally, he could see what he had been having glimpses of this whole evening.  Plush breasts cupped in scant lace that was completely impractical for a hunt, Dean realised, like you had meant to come here like this.  You had intended this from the beginning.

He tore at the lace, dragging it under your breasts to free them, shoulder straps slipped down.  Pawing at them like he had never touched a tittie before, all he wanted to do was suck and nip and nibble.

Your breathy sigh was divine, and the moan that followed was filthy.  You cupped the back of his head as he took your nipple into his mouth and sucked hard, pressing him further, asking for more.

While he worked on your breasts you undid his belt and fly, reaching into the front of his shorts to release him from the awkward angle at which he was trapped.  You stroked him, firm but slow, feeling him for the first time.  You had always wondered what he had going on down there that every woman he had ever been with would come back for more at the drop of a hat.  You weren’t disappointed.

Dean lifted his hips, you thought to allow you to push his jeans down but instead he flipped you, making you squeal.  Once under him, he ravished your breasts anew, pinching one nipple hard while licking and sucking the other.  Soon you were a mewling mess, hips writhing, begging for something he hadn’t given you yet.  Excited that he had taken control away from you, you watched him sit up and yank your jeans down, lifting your legs until they were bare.  Your knickers followed and he spread your legs without preamble, lowering himself between your thighs until his hair and eyes were all you could see above your mound.

“Jesus Christ of Nazareth!”

You groaned as he suckled against your sensitive spot.  Fuck, he was good with his tongue.  Everything about him was good except his image.  Bad boy Dean Winchester.  He was every woman’s wet dream.  He had been your wet dream since you were seventeen.  But now you were plenty old enough and finally getting what you wanted.

Bobby had told you to stay away from him when you were a kid.  Dean had a reputation as a ladies man even then, but he respected your uncle Bobby enough to keep his distance… until now.

Dean dipped two fingers inside, creating pressure in exactly the right spot.  You gasped and gripped his hair as your pleasure began to crest, tugging on it for dear life.  He looked up at you then, to see your eyes closed against the intensity of it, neck and face flushed red with your oncoming orgasm.  When it came, the pulsing of your core was his sign to slow down.  He left off his suckling and stroked you through the pleasure, watching you all the while.  You were a beautiful mess.

“That’s my girl.”  He praised you in that deep rough tone you adored, helping prolong your climax until you took his hand away yourself.  “Are you ready for me?”

You nodded, allowing him to lift your knees up and stroke the weeping tip of his cock over your swollen clit.

From the front pocket of the jeans he still wore, he pulled a foil packet with Trojan embossed on it.  He was swift with its application, aiming his tip just so.

When he slid home, your eyes rolled back and you reached to grip his forearms.  It was something Dean would never get tired of seeing but it felt that much different with you.  You were the forbidden thing he had always wanted but could never have.  Even now he didn’t know whether he would come to regret this.  God, he hoped not.

Balls deep in you, he leaned forward to kiss you, wrapping your legs around his hips.  His instinct was to fold you in half and pound the living shit out of you, but you were already overwhelmed and he wanted to make this soft for you.

“Tell me what you need.”  He spoke softly as he nuzzled your neck.

“Just you, like this.”  You sighed.  Who knew Dean Winchester was a considerate lover.

His slow, measured thrusts brought you closer to the edge, your core fluttering each time, he could feel it.  It surprised him how quickly is climax built at this pace, but the added connection you both shared seemed to turn him on.  He would never give up Busty Asian Babe porn but he could get used to this with you.

You didn’t close your eyes against the pleasure this time, you watched him come undone above you, gasping as his orgasm made his legs and arms shake, muscles clenched tight to keep his weight from collapsing on you.  When he swelled you dug your fingers into his hips to pull him deeper with each stroke, and when he spilled you also came, eyes fluttering shut finally.

Dean knelt up, slipping the rubber off as soon as he was clear of you and, tying a knot in the end, tossed it in the direction of the trash can.

“Shot.”  You said with a smile as the sticky bundle went straight in the can.

He quirked and eyebrow and give you a slightly smug lopsided smirk that said:  What can I say?  I don’t miss.

When you moved to sit, he stopped you.

“Here, lemme get that.”

“Thanks.”

He stripped his t-shirt off and used it to clean up the wetness between your legs.  Though none of it was his, it would still dribble when you moved.  Afterwards he tucked it under your ass and flopped down on the bed at your side, moving his arm behind your head so you could rest it on his chest.  You were both content.  Both had goofy grins on your faces.  Both disbelieving that you had finally gotten what you wanted.

A loud knock at the door started you.

“Are you done?”  Sam said.  “I need that book.”

“NO!”  You and Dean shouted back in unison, laughing afterwards.

“Bobby’s gonna kill you.”  Sam called back through the door.

“I KNOW!”  Dean yelled gruffly, pulling you closer.

There might be a time in the future where the ghost of Bobby Singer came to make him regret the day his balls dropped and, if it happened, Dean would be happy to see him again.  In the meantime, you and he could work on a whole bunch of reasons to make the cranky old bastard come down from up high for a visit.

Dean pulled the sheets over both of your heads, nibbling at your neck until you moaned his name.  Aside from the roar of Baby’s engine, he had found his new favourite sound.

[willownwisp]

ree's leon valentine's day advent <3

hi everyone. <3 as the leon kennedy fluff truther, i'm making an advent for valentine's day because pookie deserves so much love! everyday, i'll be posting a fic ranging from nsfw/sfw fluff for babu leon, i'll be putting out the scenarios and snippets below if y'all are interested. author's note: i've been meaning to put this out like a week ago when i finally figured out the problem w my account as to why tumblr wasn't letting me reply to comments :( but sadly, college got me so head empty. anyway, i've already got 2 days worth of fics already finished so i hope y'all can give me a read. <3

FEBRUARY 8 𖹭 nice legs, daisy dukes. (vendetta!leon x fem!reader) Leon feels like a creep, fuck that. He definitely looks like a creep. Thirty-six year old in all of his 5'11 glory standing outside his girlfriend's college leant against his Ducati like a dick, carrying a box of those, instagrammable pastries you always like to look at. It doesn't hurt to be sweet. Not when you walk — run, at the sight of him in your preppy mini dress, highlighting those long, long legs. Nothing is sweeter, especially when it's wrapped around him.

FEBRUARY 9 𖹭 starry skies, blue eyes. (re4r!leon x fem!reader) Stars dot stygian skies, the night is young, the moon is high. Leon's heart soars with your every laughter. The way your eyes close and your nose scrunches. God he was so in love with you, he could forgive the fact that the tent should have been up hours ago before night. You swear you remember your knots from your wide-eyed Girl Scout days, and he swears these silly moments with you are what makes life bearable.

FEBRUARY 10 𖹭 cold woes. (re4r!leon x fem!reader) Leon S. Kennedy. The apple of his instructors' eyes (and yours), he's a top graduate in the Police Academy for fuck's sake. He's decimated hordes of zombies in his first day as a rookie cop. Endured military training in the middle of nowhere, he's saved the President's daughter. He doesn't get sick. Only that he does catch a cold at the expense of prioritizing you, his clumsy girlfriend, who forgot to wear a jacket on a camping trip, offering his warm clothes to you. He doesn't regret it, he likes taking care of you, but there's something adorable about your sheepish apologies as you wait on him. He could get used to being babied. FEBRUARY 11 𖹭 love on me. (di!leon x fem!reader) As much as Leon loves the sun, the beaches, the tropics. Oh what he would give to become a beach bum in his next life instead of being smacked by bioweapons day in, night out, and being a good bitch to good ol' U.S of A. Unfortunately, after the events of Alcatraz, maybe he's had enough of the sea for now. He gives himself a pat on the back, takes out a chunk of his savings to go to Japan because you've been eyeing it. You said you were interested in the food, culture, and sights. So why in the world were you dragging him to a love hotel? FEBRUARY 12 𖹭 fill up your cup. (re6!leon x fem!reader) He feels himself spiraling recently, turning to the bottle because a glass is never troubled by his woes. He breaks them of course, can't help it, seems like his life is doomed to him breaking in the end. Fragments of glass scatters on the floor, vodka spills on the floor splashes it around like his grief because his body can only take so much. You arrive as he tries to pick them up, attempts to pick himself up. You whisper assurance, he doesn't deserve it. The way you look at him ardently, the gentleness that is your existence. You empty out his pain, and fill it with love. FEBRUARY 13 𖹭 the thrill, the love. (damnation!leon x fem!reader) He wills his old Yamaha to go faster. Your dainty arms clinging to him, the softness of your touch as his speed breaks the sound barrier. What started as mere curiosity turns into rituals. Secrets that only the both of you know. He knocks on your door at midnight, drives you around town. He scolds you every time your arm breaks free, throwing them to the wind. You don't care, you love the thrill, you love him. Leon admits that there is something alluring to the thrill of the chase. Perhaps that's why he's spent his years chasing Ada, but with you it was different. FEBRUARY 14 𖹭 kiss it better. (di!leon x fem!reader) Leon is a man full of stories, his pain, his peace, his fears, his needs. There is more to him than just being a formidable weapon against bioterrorism. He never was a weapon, just a flesh and blood human, and in his mortality there are scars. Deep within him, and littered in his skin. You kiss the faded slash on his hand, he tells you how he'd got it from when Ashley Graham had tried to stab him under the influence of the plaga. You kiss it again, and what he doesn't tell you is the wave of warmth that washes his entire being, it tugs on his very soul. You kiss the scars because it's there, because it's him, and in his reverie, he thinks you truly are his person.

[genshinluvr]

They Don't Deserve You

Pairings: Various Genshin Men x Isekai'd!Reader

Summary: Before going to bed, you suffer a painful headache. Baizhu, Dottore, Albedo, and Tighnari couldn't pinpoint the issue. Right before falling asleep, the headache comes back and knocks you unconscious. You end up waking up back in your world, only you didn't wake up alone in your bedroom. The men have teleported into your world with you.

Note: Omg, finally, a fic where the reader and the men are in the reader's world! This is a request, so keep that in mind! I didn't make the men meet the reader's parents because, well, how does one explain to your parents about having almost thirty men in your bedroom? So, instead of the men meeting the reader's parents, they will be overhearing the things that are said to the reader. I think this counts as a hurt/comfort fic. To the new and returning readers, please remember that I don't post anywhere else but on Tumblr (Genshinluvr) and on AO3 (Aaliah_exo).

Warnings: The reader gets compared to their cousin, and there's tension between the reader's mom and the reader, the ex-boyfriend.

Word Count: 9.5k

Before you and the twenty-five men went to bed, you had been experiencing a headache that felt like your skull was being ripped into two. The headache hurts so much that you nearly faint. It sent you straight to the infirmary room where Tighnari, Dottore, Baizhu, and Albedo are trying to figure out the cause of your headache.

“No fever, no chills, no coughs, no runny nose,” Baizhu murmurs, feeling your forehead.

Tighnari pinches the bridge of his nose. “They’re not sick, but they have a head-splitting headache that nearly made them faint,” Tighnari says, looking over to where you lie.

Dottore drapes the blanket over your body and places the prescription drug back on the shelves. The headache you’re experiencing would thunder through your skull; it would happen out of nowhere, sending sharp pains and hindering your activities. It’s not a migraine, though it can be mistaken for one. The headache came out of nowhere.

“Are you sure it’s not a migraine?” Dottore asks, turning to look at you.

You nod hesitantly. “I’m sure it’s not a migraine. I never get migraines,” you whisper, wincing when the headache reappears. 

“Well, anyone can get a migraine. Headaches and migraines can be caused by stress. Still, people can also get diagnosed with chronic migraines,” says Albedo, sitting beside you on the examination bed. 

“I don’t have chronic migraines. I would know if I was diagnosed with it,” you murmur.

Footsteps coming from the hallway echo, getting louder as the person approaches the room you’re in. Diluc steps into the room and knocks on the door to grab Tighnari, Dottore, Albedo, and Baizhu’s attention. You bring the blanket up to your chin and close your eyes, your eyebrows pinching up from the aftermath of the headache. Diluc’s eyes are locked on you, his heart squeezing in his chest when he sees the state you’re in. 

Diluc crosses his arms over his chest and leans against the doorway. “If you’re all done checking up on [Y/N]’s condition, I believe we should take them to their room so they can rest,” Diluc says.

You slowly throw the blanket off your body and get off the examination bed. You’re relieved that you didn’t set off a thundering headache by getting off the bed. You walk to Diluc, who holds his arm out for you to take. You loop your left arm around his right arm and give the four men a weak smile.

“Thank you for taking care of me. I appreciate it. I hope the medication will help me with my headache,” you say.

“We’ll find the answers. We promise,” Tighnari says, smiling at you weakly.

Baizhu nods. “And as long as the headache isn’t recurring, then you should be okay after taking the medication. But for now, please get plenty of rest and drink some water,” Baizhu pleads.

Baizhu walks up to you and presses his lips against your forehead. You reach for Baizhu’s hands and squeeze his hands before letting Diluc escort you to your bedroom. The way Diluc held you while walking you to your room is like him holding fragile glass. He’s afraid that he will hurt you or trigger your headache. Diluc guides you to your bedroom, pushing the door open. 

The two of you walk into your room, and Diluc helps you sit on your bed. You slowly lay down and pull your blanket over your body. Diluc fluffs your pillow and tucks you into your bed, pressing a gentle kiss on your forehead.

You close your eyes and watch Diluc walk to the window, pulling the black-out curtains closed. The nightlight in the corner of your room turns on when your bedroom turns pitch black. Diluc closes the door behind him, not before taking one last peek into your dark bedroom before shutting the door. You curl up into a fetal position, hugging your knees to your chest and burying your face into your body pillow. You peek from your pillow and crack one eye open, bleary eyes focusing on the small light in the corner. The nightlight gives you slight solace. 

Just when you’re able to drift off to sleep, the familiar pain creeps up on you. You whimper in pain, clenching the blanket in your fist and squeezing your eyes shut. You begin hearing ringing in your ears. At first, the ringing in your ears was quiet, but it gradually got louder, almost deafening. White hot searing pain suddenly shot through your skull, knocking you out cold.

When you come to your consciousness, the light shining through your bedroom window shines in your face. You groan and cover your eyes with your hand, grumbling about wanting to sleep in more. The sound of your phone chiming made you freeze. You slowly open your eyes and sit up, only to see that you’re back in your world. You scramble out of your bed, accidentally stepping on something and tripping over something.

“Ouch! You stepped on my face!” Itto groans, rubbing his face with his hand.

Your eyes nearly pop out of your skull when you see the men sprawled out on the ground, coming to their consciousness at the sound of you falling and Itto groaning in pain. Once everyone has regained consciousness, they all look around and see they’re in an unfamiliar room.

“Where are we?” Gorou asks, his ears twitching at the sound of cats yowling, hissing outside the window, and dogs barking at the sound of cats yowling.

They all get off the floor of your bedroom and dust their clothes. You purse your lips, debating whether you should tell them that they’re in your world and your bedroom specifically. But you think it’s evident that the room is yours because of the plushies in your room and your shrine of a particular Genshin man.

You push past the men and walk to your phone, checking to see what time and day it is. It felt like a few months had passed for you while you were in Teyvat, but according to your phone, only two days have gone by. While you’re scrolling through your phone to see if anything has changed, the men start to survey their surroundings.

Posters and framed signed prints hang on the wall, and books are stacked haphazardly on a small bookshelf tucked in the corner of your room, a stack of hats on an electric fan. Your bed is filled with many plushies, five pillows, and seven blankets. In front of your bed is a desk with a flat monitor, a large glowing machine box underneath the desk, and seven water bottles sitting beside the monitor.

“I just noticed that [Y/N] has a lot of pictures, small statues, and stationary that looks like him,” You hear one person grumble.

“Yeah! Me too! Why him and why not me?!” Someone else exclaims, pointing at the prints on your bedroom wall with a pout.

Someone snatches your phone from your grasp, forcing you to look at the disgruntled men around you. You stare at the men like a fish out of water, unsure of how you’re going to answer their question. Quite frankly, you didn’t think this day was going to come. And now look at you, having to explain to all of the men why you have so much merchandise of a particular Genshin man that is standing in the same room as you and the others. The man in question was blushing and flattered that he was your favorite out of the rest of the men in the room (and the relationship).

“To be fair, I did not think I was going to be thrown into your world so suddenly. What I also didn’t expect was to return to my world with all of you accompanying me,” you said. 

You made sure to look around your room to not make eye contact with anyone. One of the men walks up to your body pillow, yanks it from your bed, and holds it in front of your face. You feel your face become warm, and you shut your eyes, turning your head away.

“Then explain the body pillow with them on it,” you hear a disgruntled anemo user mutter, glaring at you through his lashes. 

You snatch the body pillow and throw it back on your bed, face hot with embarrassment. “My cousin got it for me as a gag gift! I’m not going to throw it away!” You huff.

Before someone can interject, everyone hears a knock coming from the door. Your eyes widen, and you press your index finger against your lips, gesturing for the men to be quiet. The men around you freeze, and you slowly tiptoe toward your bedroom door. 

You stand in front of the door, keeping your eyes on the floor. “Who is it?” You ask.

“[Y/N]? Are you still upset about the conversation we had a few days ago?” You hear your mother ask through the door.

You sigh, suddenly remembering the conversation you had with her a few months ago. It was a few days ago to her, but for you, it has been months. The men look at you curiously, and you shake your head, not wanting to explain to them what it is.

“Mom, I don’t want to talk about it. I just want to be left alone, please,” you plead.

You hear your mom scoff from behind the door. “I do everything for you, and this is how you treat your mother? You’re such an ungrateful child,” Your mom hisses through the door.

Your mom stomps down the stairs while muttering curse words under her breath about you. You walk over to your bed and sit at the edge, pinching the bridge of your nose. You returned a few minutes ago, and now you’re dealing with the conflict between you and your mother already? 

“Do you want to talk about it?” Dainsleif asks, unsure how to process the interaction between you and the woman who gave birth to you.

You shake your head. “No. I don’t want to talk about it,” you scratch your head, “I don’t know how long we’ll be here, but you will see a lot of things about my family,” you roll your eyes.

“Oh? Will we be meeting your family?” Kazuha asks, not taking his eyes off the pictures of you and your friends hanging on the wall. 

You press your lips into a thin line before answering, “That, I don’t know. My parents never let me date anyone or go out and hang out with my friends,” you sigh. “I’m not sure how they’ll react to seeing twenty-five men in my bedroom,” you chuckle.

“Putting that aside, does anyone know how we all get thrown into [Y/N]’s universe?” Thoma asks, looking around nervously.

Everyone shakes their heads. It was strange how you were back in your world with the men accompanying you. The last thing you remember was getting a head-splitting headache, knocking you out cold. You’re not sure how long you and the men are going to be in your world, but you hope it won’t be too long.

“What’s this?” Aether asks, holding up your phone.

Your phone’s screen turns on, showing the background of your phone. The background of your phone is a particular Genshin male character. Your eyes widen, and you snatch your phone from Aether, feeling the heat return to your face. 

You clear your throat. “You didn’t see that,” you said.

You walk to your phone charger and plug in your phone. After plugging in your phone, you collapse onto your bed and close your eyes. It has only been a few minutes, and you already want to return to the abode to escape your life in your world. You prefer your life in Teyvat; no one is complaining about you, no one is starting drama with you, you’re not being compared to your cousins and siblings in Teyvat, and you live with your twenty-five boyfriends!

“You know what you should do?” Kaeya asks, sitting beside you.

You peek up at Kaeya. “What?” You ask.

Xiao points at every electronic in your bedroom. “Explain what these things are and why you have a glowing box under your desk,” Xiao crosses his arms over his chest.

You sit and blink owlishly. “Shit, I did not think this through,” you mutter, running your hands through your disheveled hair. 

“Start with something that is easy to explain,” Zhongli suggests, his eyes not-so-subtly shifting to your bedroom wall that consists of prints of a certain Genshin man.

You got off your bed and went to the closest thing to you, your computer. You turn your computer on and switch the button at the bottom of your mouse. The mouse lights up, and the monitor lights up. When the monitor loads, you almost want to slam your head on your desk because of the background.

“You are quite obsessed with that man,” you hear someone mumble.

You cover the monitor with your body, clearing your throat awkwardly while entering your password to unlock your computer. You’re pretty shameless when it comes to simping over your favorite Genshin character. Still, now that it’s in front of everyone, it’s almost humiliating. But you’re not ashamed of loving this particular Genshin man.

“Forget about the strange technologies in your bedroom. I want to know why you’re obsessed with him and not me,” the blond grumbles, looking over in the sheepish man’s direction.

You let out a sigh. “I’m not going to explain my unhealthy obsession with him, alright? Plus, if my parents hear everyone speak, they’ll be suspicious of what’s happening and would try to walk into my room,” you said.

Heizou raises his hand. “What if we end up getting hungry?” Heizou asks, cocking an eyebrow at you.

You stare at Heizou and the other men around him, who nod at Heizou’s question. If you were to go downstairs to fetch something for all of the men to eat, your parents would be suspicious of what’s going on. Not only that, but you’re not entirely sure if the men will be able to stomach the food in your world. They should be okay, right? 

“I’ll order something for us to eat. The issue is the small space in my room, and all of you need to get some fresh air and stretch your legs,” you murmur. “I’ll be right back. I’m going downstairs to see if my parents and siblings are home.”

You squeeze through the crowd of men in your room, slowly open your bedroom door and peek your head into the hallway. Your parents are talking to one another, and the sound of car keys jingles. You walk out of your room, close the door behind you, and step down the stairs. When you reach the living room of your house, you see your parents putting their shoes on, and your dad has his car keys in his hand.

“Oh, look who finally decided to leave their room,” your mom says, crossing her arms over her chest.

You ignore your mom’s snide comment. “Where are you two going?” You ask.

“Your aunt invited your mother and me over to talk,” your dad replies.

You notice the house was a little bit too quiet. It was too quiet for your liking. You didn’t hear your sister talking on the phone with her friends, nor did you hear your brothers screaming at the top of their lungs while playing video games in their bedrooms. 

“The house is too quiet. Where are Andrew, Alex, and Alice?” You inquired, looking around for any signs of your siblings in the house. 

You look at the shoe rack, noticing their shoes aren’t on the shoe rack. The area where they put their shoes is empty. 

“Alice went to the movies with her boyfriend a few minutes ago; her boyfriend picked her up. As for Andrew and Alex, they left to go to the gym not too long ago,” your father replies. 

“We’ll be back in a few hours. If you’re hungry, there’s food on the stove for you to heat up,” your mom says, putting her coat on. 

You shivered at the thought of being the topic of gossip. You have been the main topic a few times before, and you certainly hope your parents won’t bring you up in the conversation. Knowing your family, they will be gossiping for hours while eating seafood. Your mom unlocks the front door and the gate, stepping out into the cold. Goosebumps immediately take over your body, sending sharp chills down your body. You wave them goodbye, closed and lock the front gate, then the front door. 

You peek through the window blinds, watching your parents walk to the large white SUV your dad drives. The car roars to life, the headlights turning on, shining the things in its path. Your parents pull out of the driveway and drive off. A sense of relief falls over you after your parents leave. You turn to go back upstairs to inform the men but nearly go into a cardiac arrest when you see that they have been standing behind you the entire time.

“How long have you guys been standing there?!” You hissed, clutching your chest.

Your heart punches your ribs while you try to calm your breathing. The men examine your house, looking at the furniture and technologies curiously.

Al Haitham is the first one to reply. “We went to check and see what took you so long to return to your room. Someone,” Al Haitham looks at Kaveh with a blank stare, “was too impatient to wait for your return.”

“Hey! Am I not allowed to be worried about [Y/N] and their safety!?” Kaveh demands, glaring at the acting Grand Sage with his hands propped on his hips.

Pierro closes his eyes, crossing his arms over his chest. “You’re allowed to worry about [Y/N], but did you forget that we’re in their house? They’re safe,” Pierro says, opening his eyes and scanning the living room of your house. 

“In case you’re all wondering, unless you all eavesdropped on my and my parents' conversation, they’ll be gone for a few hours. My sister is out with her boyfriend, and my brothers went to work out at the gym,” you said, walking to the kitchen. “There’s food on the stove for us to eat, but I’m afraid there won’t be enough for us all.”

“You mention something about ordering food for us to eat. Would that solve the problem?” Cyno asks.

Your eyes light up. “Oh, right! Thank you for reminding me, Cyno!” You throw your arms around Cyno’s shoulders, hugging him tightly. “I’ll be right back,” you pull away from the hug, “I’m going to get my phone and DoorDash something for us to eat.”

You weave through the men and jog up the stairs for your phone. You unplug your phone from the charger and dash back downstairs. You panted and unlocked your phone, swiping to the DoorDash app on your phone. The men crowd around you to see what you’re doing on the small device that has a touch screen.

“What kind of food are we all in the mood for? Just a side note: there are a lot of us, so the price of the food and delivery will be on the expensive side,” you said.

“I’m open to trying anything. Therefore, I think you should pick out the food because this is your world, and you’re more familiar with the food than we are,” Pantalone says.

You stare at Pantalone, then look around. You’re not opposed to ordering food for the men, but you don’t want to order the things they won’t eat or can stomach. You purse your lips and tap your foot on the ground, trying to think of something to order. There are all types of food on DoorDash! The issue is deciding where you’re going to order and how much it’ll cost to feed almost thirty people.

You ended up ordering from different fast food places, unsure what the men would like to eat. Since they’re in your world, you might as well introduce them to the food from your universe. Plus, the foods from Genshin Impact aren’t too different from the food in your world. The only thing that’s different is the ingredients.

Seeing the price you’re paying for the food and delivery, you can hear your bank account crying in the distance. Let’s just say that it’s almost seven hundred dollars, and you ordered a lot of food for the men; they have big appetites. You tuck your phone into your pocket and collapse on the couch face down.

“What do we do now?” Capitano asks.

You lift your head and stare at the men. “We wait for the food to be delivered. I ordered a lot of food, so it might take a while,” you said, resting your cheek on the leather cushions. “When the food arrives, we can watch the TV for some entertainment if you guys want. Or we can just talk! Up to you guys,” you shrug your shoulders.

You and the men end up sitting and talking around the kitchen area while waiting for the food to be delivered. While standing around in the kitchen, the men look at the air fryer curiously. Dread falls on you when you realize that you need to explain to them what specific items are if they point at them like a curious child.

“Anything you have a question on, I will try my best to answer them,” you said.

After announcing that, questions came almost immediately. The first item to be questioned on was, of course, your phone. You explained to the men what a phone is and how it functions, and what you have on your phone. From the pictures to the apps to the people on your contacts list that you would text or call from time to time. 

“What’s social media? It sounds a little bit intimidating,” Aether mutters, pressing on the Instagram app.

“It’s a website or an app that allows people to create and share content or network with those worldwide. It keeps us all connected to each other. Still, at the same time, it also disconnects us from one another because people are only focusing on their phones rather than the person they’re with,” you said.

While Aether scrolls through your Instagram, the men look over Aether’s shoulders to see what he’s doing. The people you follow look and dress interestingly. Some are at parties, concerts, or a casual day out, pictures of dogs and cats, and people dressing up like them or the people they know back in their universe. Out of sheer curiosity, Aether presses on your phone and starts to scroll through it. You only have twenty-two posts on Instagram. There are pictures of you with your family and your friends. There are also many selfies, a few photos of you at some event, and a— wait a minute.

“Who is that?” Heizou asks, clicking on the post.

You push yourself off the counter and check to see what they’re looking at. You nearly smack yourself for not deleting that post. It was a picture of you and your ex-boyfriend that you posted a few months ago. You grab your phone from Aether’s hands and quickly delete the old post, your face feeling hot.

“It’s no one important,” you mutter.

Ayato crosses his arms over his chest and raises his eyebrows at you. “You and that man were hugging in the picture, and he was kissing your cheek. He doesn’t seem like a nobody,” Ayato says, looking at you skeptically.

You put your phone on the counter. “He’s not in my life anymore, so he’s technically a nobody.”

Childe wraps his arms around your waist and rests his chin on your head. “Even if he’s no longer in your life, I’m sure we’re all curious about who he was to you,” Childe murmurs. Childe buries his face into your neck, tightening his grip on your waist. After seeing that picture of you and the mysterious man, the men couldn’t help but feel jealous that you used to date someone that wasn’t them.

You let out a sigh and rested your head on his shoulder, puckering your lips. “He’s my boyfriend. Well, ex-boyfriend, to be more specific. I broke up with him a few months ago in my world, and the breakup was messy,” you shivered.

“How was the breakup messy?” Gorou asks, blinking at you owlishly.

You’re about to answer Gorou’s question when your doorbell chimes, startling you and the men. You walk to the front door with Childe still attached to your body. The first batch of food has arrived, and you’re beginning to salivate at the aroma of food from the delivery bag. Childe and Kaveh help you bring the bags into the dining area.

“There’s still more food coming. I ordered different types of food that I think you all will like. The food in my world isn’t so different from the food in your world, other than the ingredients,” you said, tearing open the bag.

“You still haven’t answered Gorou’s question,” Dottore interjects, sitting in the closest chair beside you. 

You continue to pull the contents out from the bag, setting them on the table and taking the cap off of some take-out boxes. You walked to the kitchen and pulled out the paper plates your parents were keeping in the pantry, thinking about how you were going to explain your failed relationship.

You sigh. “He’s not emotionally intelligent. We’ve gotten into arguments a few times before, and whenever I try to talk it out, he would avoid the topic,” you said.

“Oh, so, he lacks communication skills,” Diluc comments.

You nod.

“He also sounds like he doesn’t want to talk things out if he avoids the topic,” Dainsleif says, grabbing the paper plates from your hands.

You press your lips into a thin line and shake your head. “He always avoids certain things when we talk. Arguments are rare, but he ignores my text messages and phone calls when he gets mad at me.”

Scaramouche lets out a sarcastic laugh. “Well, your ex-boyfriend sounds like a piece of shit if you ask me,” Scaramouche rolls his eyes.

“And you’re correct because he is! I would beg to spend time with him, but he’ll tell me he was busy with work. According to him, work is keeping him occupied,” you roll your eyes, passing out napkins to the men.

“That’s an excuse, for sure,” Cyno mutters, peeking at the food on the table. 

You nod your head. “It was! I later found out that he had a wife the entire time, even though he claimed he was single,” you roll your eyes. 

Thoma looks at you in horror, almost dropping his plate of food on the ground. Thoma quickly composes himself and puts his plate on the table, steadying himself on the dining table while trying to process the information you have thrown out there.

“Your ex-boyfriend is a married man?” Thoma chokes.

“Unfortunately, yes, he’s a married man. I didn’t find out until four years later, by the way.”  You run your fingers through your hair.

Everyone’s eyes nearly pop out of their sockets. How well did this man hide this information from you? There’s no way someone like him can get away with cheating, especially since your world has social media that can connect strangers with one another. Surely his wife must’ve known about him having an affair, right? 

“Did you tell his wife about the affair?” Kaveh asks.

You shake your head. “There’s no way for me to find his wife’s name or her information. He lied about many things to me, yet I was stupid enough to believe his lies,” you chuckle bitterly.

“Don’t blame yourself for something you were unaware of. It is he who’s at fault, not you,” Kazuha reassures you, rubbing your back gently. 

When the rest of the food arrived, all of you ate in comfortable silence. You will talk to each other from time to time while eating, but the men are busy stuffing their faces with food. You don’t blame them for that because you weren’t sure how long you and the men have been in your world after falling asleep back at the abode. Speaking of the abode, you miss it very much. You miss being able to cook with Thoma and listening to Childe sing loudly in the shower because he doesn’t close the bathroom door. You miss living in Teyvat with your boyfriends.

You’re not entirely sure how long you and the men will be in your world, but you hope all of you can return back to Teyvat soon. Months have gone by in Teyvat, but only one or two days have passed in your world. After everyone finished eating, you made them shower in your bathroom while you cleaned things up. Before you let them shower in your bathroom, you show them how to operate some things.

“I like the scent of it,” Venti says, sniffing your body wash after opening the cap of the bottle. 

You clap your hand. “Now that I have shown you all where the things are and how to use some things in the bathroom, you can take turns showering. I can wash your clothes if you want,” you said.

“That would mean we will all be naked while we wait for our clothes to be washed and dried,” Itto clears his throat, looking at you with wide eyes.

You pucker your lips and nod. “That is correct, but it’s better to have your clothes washed and dried than sleeping in clothes that you have worn the day before,” you said. 

Plus, you don’t mind seeing the men parade around the house butt-naked… if your family didn’t have security cameras installed around the house. Then again, they will have towels on to preserve their modesty. It’s a good thing your family owns a lot of towels, so one of them would have to share towels with each other or use your towel.

Your entire day consists of you washing the men’s clothes and cleaning up your bedroom to ensure plenty of space for the men to roam around and relax. Your room isn’t huge, and it certainly cannot fit almost thirty people. The sleeping arrangement is going to be an absolute nightmare. 

Once all the clothes have been washed and dried, you hand the men back their clothes so they can change into them. You’re glad there are a couple of pillows and oversized blankets lying around the house. You might have to shop for more pillows and blankets when you have the time and money. But for now, it looks like you’ll have to sleep on someone while they sleep on your bed beside the other men. 

Your family tends to always be prepared for something. And when you said they’re always prepared, you’re implying they buy large packs of shampoo, soaps, towels, toothpaste, toilet paper, water bottles, and deodorants. The men didn’t need to worry about those things other than possible new clothes and places to sleep and being hidden from your parents. This should be fine for now. Your dad travels for work, your mom is always at work, and your siblings are always going out with their friends. It shouldn’t be hard to hide the men. Still, you hope your parents or siblings don’t walk into your room unannounced one day because you don’t have any excuses for why twenty-five men are in your bedroom. 

You and the men will be in your world for only a short time, right? Wrong. Because the next few days go by, and everyone is still in your world. Hiding the men is complicated because they would get up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom to the point where your siblings ask you if you chug water before bed. You lie and say yes because you’re trying your best to stay hydrated. You’re glad your siblings didn’t question it and continue to ignore your constant need to pee.

Sleeping in one bedroom with almost thirty people is an experience. The number of people snoring, farting, twitching, and sleep talk is hilarious. You once woke up in the middle of the night because Itto flinched violently in his sleep. Itto will give you a sleepy smile, pet your head, sleepily apologize for waking you up and kiss your forehead before falling back asleep. 

You completely forgot that Zhongli, Venti, Xiao, and Scaramouche didn’t need sleep. Sometimes you would wake up in the middle of the night, catching them sitting in front of your computer while binge-watching some show with the brightness level at maximum. The light from your monitor illuminates your bedroom. 

“Why are you guys awake at two in the morning?” You whisper, lifting your head from Al Haitham’s chest.

“We’re watching a show. The shows from your universe are…. Interesting and quite educational,” Zhongli says, his eyes glued to the screen.

You blink at Zhongli and look at the monitor. They were watching a nature documentary on Netflix. It was cute, not going to lie. Seeing the four men sitting in front of your computer, watching nature documentaries, reminds you of your baby cousins watching Paw Patrol at eight in the morning. You’re too tired to scold them, so you lay your head back on Al Haitham’s chest and doze off. 

Do you want to know who farts the most in their sleep? It’s Childe, but most of them fart in their sleep. You would think it’s Itto who farts a lot in his sleep, but that man just snores and twitches. It has gotten to the point where you almost decide to steal a Febreze spray from your parents’ bathroom and keep it in your room. You opted to keep the windows cracked open to let the fresh air into your room. 

“That one,” Xiao points over to Childe, “passes gas the most out of all of us.” Xiao scrunches his face up with disgust.

Kaeya pats Itto’s shoulders. “This one twitches a lot. I may sleep on the ground, but I can hear him twitch in his sleep when it’s his turn to sleep on [Y/N]’s bed,” Kaeya says, looking over at Itto with an amused look on his face. 

“I wish you have a lab in your house. It would’ve sped the process of bringing us all back to Teyvat,” Albedo murmurs, resting his head on your shoulder.

Pierro chuckles. “I don’t think normal civilians like [Y/N] and their family would have a lab in their house,” Pierro says.

You pucker your lips. There are ordinary people that have labs in their homes. Only they’re not for science experiments…. They’re for…. Illegal activities. But that’s something you won’t be telling the men just yet, or at least until all of you have returned back to Teyvat. Actually, should you be telling them about that at all? You watch the men quietly bicker with each other, too tired to even stop them from arguing. You plop back down on your bed, feeling your eyelids grow heavy.

Realization hits Baizhu, and he weaves over to where you’re lying. Baizhu presses his hand on your forehead to check your temperature. You open your eyes and look at Baizhu with bleary eyes. You rub your eyes, attempting to rub the sleep away.

“I didn’t get to check up on your condition, but how are you feeling right now since the last check-up?” Baizhu asks.

You sit up and give him a sleepy smile. “I’ve been okay. There are no headaches or migraines. I feel fine,” you said.

You hear your mom calling your name from downstairs. You scramble out of your bed and quickly walk out of your room and down the stairs. After you leave your room in a hurry, the men look at each other quizzically and fall silent. They stand by the door and listen. When you get downstairs, you see your mom standing in the kitchen, her hands propped on her hips, holding something in her hand. You cautiously approach your mom, and she gives you a dissatisfied look.

“[Y/N]. Your university sent us an email regarding your grades this week and….” Your mom trails off.

You make a face, confused that your university would send home a mail regarding your grades in the university. You know you’re passing, or at least the last time you checked, you were doing okay. You weren’t behind on any assignments because you checked to make sure you didn’t have any work that was missing. Plus, the men made sure you checked on your grades periodically. 

“And?” You ask, waiting for her to finish her sentence.

Your mom hands you the paper, propping her hands on her hips. “You’re doing decent in school, but it’s not the best like your uncle’s daughter,” she says, “you’re doing fine in school, but she’s doing way better at her university.”

Ah. There it is. The comparison starts now.

You pinch the bridge of your nose and sigh. “Mom, what’s important is that I’m passing, right? I’m not flunking out of university. My highest GPA in the previous quarter was 3.9 GPA, and my GPA alone earns me a spot on the Dean’s List, mom. Isn’t that enough?” You ask.

She shakes her head, gnawing on the inside of her cheek. “3.9 GPA is good, but did you know your cousin has been getting a 4.0 GPA every quarter at her university? She’s also in the honors program, [Y/N]. You’re not in the honors program.”

“So what? My GPA is slightly below hers! Is she being in the honors program more important?” You ask.

Your face is starting to feel hot. It wasn’t from embarrassment. It was from anger and frustration. You returned to your world not long ago, and you’re already being compared to your perfect cousin who’s good at everything. You study hard in school for yourself, not for some imaginary competition where your parents pit you against your cousin. Your cousin doesn’t care about the dumb little competition; she does well in school, and you’re proud of her! She’s also proud of you for doing well in school. She would often reassure you that she doesn’t see you as an academic competition. 

Your mom snatches the letter out of your hands and slams it on the countertop. “Yes, it’s a big deal that your cousin is in the honors program! Because she’s in the honors program and has a 4.0 GPA, do you know how many scholarships she has earned from her achievements?!” Your mom exclaims.

You laugh bitterly. “Mom, you know she and I don’t see each other as competition, right? The only people that see it as a competition are you, dad, and her parents. It’s weird to pit your children against each other,” you said. “This is how you cause rifts in families. You’re pitting me against her, and her parents are pitting her against me. She’s happy that I’m doing well in school, and I’m glad that she’s doing well in school.”

Your mom rolls her eyes and gestures for you to leave her sight. Before you leave the kitchen, you grab a water bottle from the fridge and walk back upstairs to your room. Upon hearing you coming up the stairs, the men quickly scramble around the room, trying to act like they weren’t eavesdropping on your and your mom’s conversation the entire time. 

You grab the doorknob to your room and open the door, squeezing the water bottle before shutting the door behind you. Without saying a word, you open the water bottle and chug the water, trying to distract yourself from the previous conversation you had with your mother. 

Al Haitham approaches you cautiously while you continue to chug the water. “Are you alright, [Y/N]?” Al Haitham asks, placing a gentle hand on your shoulder.

You finish your water, crush the plastic bottle in your hand and toss it into the nearby trash can. “Yeah, I’m fine! It’s just another typical conversation with my mom,” you said humorlessly.

Pantalone bites his lips before asking, “How often do your parents pester you about your grades?” 

You snort. “When do my parents never pester me about anything?” You ask, plopping down on the edge of your bed. “Sorry if any of you hear my and my mom’s conversation. I guess the longer we’re here, the more you will see what I deal with almost every day.”

“Do you want us to get rid of the problem?” Capitano asks.

You blink at the masked (?) man, shaking your head slowly. You know what Capitano was implying, and as tempting as that sounds, you don��t want them to get in trouble because of you. Plus, getting rid of your parents, aunt, and uncle isn’t going to do anything. All it will do is cause issues that are bigger than it already is.

Dainsleif glares at Capitano. “You shouldn’t imply murdering your significant other’s parents, Harbinger,” Dainsleif hisses. 

“Oh, please. I wasn’t implying murder; I was simply implying that we should talk with [Y/N]’s parents about comparing them to their cousin. They’re creating a rift between them and [Y/N],” Capitano says, brushing Dainsleif’s response off.

Scaramouche raises his eyebrows at the Harbinger and crosses his arms over his chest. “You? Having a reasonable conversation with [Y/N]’s parents? That’s something out of the ordinary for someone like you,” Scaramouche says, smirking with amusement.

Childe laughs nervously, nudging Scaramouche in the ribs with his elbow. “What Scaramouche mean is that we shouldn’t get rid of the people in [Y/N]’s life. Especially when that person is [Y/N]’s family member,” Childe says, pressing his lips into a thin line afterward.

You lie on your bed and throw your blanket over your body. You don’t want the men to see what you have to deal with every day before being thrown into their universe. It’s humiliating. You don’t care if your siblings see your parents tell you you’re not good enough; they’ve witnessed it many times throughout your lives. You don’t want your boyfriends to see how your parents treat you because it’s embarrassing. 

“Do you want to talk about it?” Aether asks, sitting beside you while caressing your face.

You give Aether a weak smile and shake your head. “I don’t want to talk about it right now, Aether. It’s embarrassing,” you murmur.

“Hey, just to let you know, we’re incredibly proud of you and your achievements. Please don’t compare yourself to anyone, ever,” Tighnari says, giving your bicep a comforting squeeze.

You give Tighnari a strained smile. “Thank you, Tighnari. I’ll try not to compare myself to other people. It’ll be hard because my parents do it to me almost every day,” you mutter.

“You’re more than enough. Don’t forget that, alright?” Thoma asks, giving you a sympathetic smile.

You cover your face with your hand. “Stop, you guys are going to make me cry,” you grumble, rolling over on your stomach and burying your face into your bed. 

Crying is the last thing you want to do. You appreciate the men comforting you and reassuring you that you’re more than enough. But seeing the amount of support you receive from the men you love is overwhelming in a good way. You love and appreciate them so much. They have always been there for you through your brightest and darkest days, providing you safety and solace. 

Diluc pushes through the men and lies beside you, pulling you into his arms and caressing your hair. You bury your face into Diluc’s neck, trying your best to hold back your tears. You want to go home. You don’t want to be in your world anymore. What’s the point of returning to a place where you’re constantly unhappy? 

Diluc presses his lips against your forehead. “You’ll be okay. We won’t let anyone hurt you,” Diluc whispers, wiping a stray tear that made its way down your cheek.

“I want to go home,” you whisper, gripping Diluc’s shirt tightly. “I don’t want to be here anymore. Why should I stay in a place where I’m always unhappy?” You murmur, clenching your teeth.

Albedo sighs and clenches his hands into fists. “We’ll figure something out. Trust me, we don’t want to stay in a place where we see you suffer either,” Albedo says.

“You’re doing well in your world. You’re on the Dean’s List with a 3.9 GPA, and we’re proud of you and your achievements here and back in Teyvat,” Al Haitham says, reaching down and stroking your hair.

You snort and roll over on your back, staring at the ceiling. You bite your lips, and tears continue to pool in your eyes, cascading down your face. “I may be doing well in school, but according to my parents, I’m not doing well if we compare it to my cousin’s GPA,” you whisper.

You wipe your tears away and sit on your bed. Before Al Haitham can sit beside you to comfort you, Kaveh shoves him to the side and takes the empty spot next to you. Kaveh pulls you onto his lap and hugs you tightly, ignoring the scowl Al Haitham shoots in his direction. Kaveh rests his chin on your head, swaying to the side.

“Your parents don’t deserve you. None of them do,” Kaveh whispers.

You bury your face into Kaveh’s neck. All you want to do is return to the abode and get away from the people that put you down. You never expect to return back to your world so suddenly. You assume a portal would open up, and you would get the option of whether you want to stay in Teyvat or return to your world. If you did have the opportunity, you would’ve chosen to remain in Teyvat forever. But alas, things are always unexpected and never go your way. 

The silence is broken when your phone chimes. You jump and twist your body to look at the now-illuminated screen of your phone. A package was delivered to your house just a few seconds ago, and the delivery man rang the doorbell to notify you and your family. You wipe the tears and get off Kaveh’s lap, rushing downstairs to grab the package before any of your neighbors decide to steal them like last time.

You stop in your tracks when you reach the last step of the stairs. Your dad closes the front door with packages in his hands. He looks at you and holds up the cardboard box. You press your lips into a thin line, watching him lock the front door.

Your dad sighs. “[Y/N], this is the eighth time you ordered something online. You need to learn how to save your money. Don’t buy stupid and useless things online,” your dad says sternly.

“Dad, I ordered these months ago. They finally arrived after a few months,” you explain.

Your dad shakes his head, pointing an accusing finger at you. “I don’t care if you ordered these things a few months ago. You need to stop wasting your money on stupid shit, or else you won’t have any money left,” he scolds you.

You didn’t respond. Your dad hands you your packages before dismissing you. You exhale through your nose and walk up the stairs. After arriving at your room, you slammed the doors behind you, tossed your package near the window nook, and plopped down on your bed. The men didn’t say anything, knowing that you didn’t want to talk about what happened downstairs. They all heard it. What’s there to explain?

You point at the packages near the window nook. “Those packages were actually late gifts for my parents and siblings. There was a production delay, and they pushed the shipping and delivery dates back by a few months. It finally arrived, only for my dad to tell me not to buy useless things and waste my money on stupid shit,” you whisper. 

You rest your head on Kaveh’s shoulders, letting him wrap his arms around you and press a gentle kiss on your head. You’re hoping this will be the last time you return to your world. If you return for the second time, you’ll make sure that it’s the last time you visit. You don’t want to stay in your world anymore. Your world isn’t home anymore. It doesn’t feel like home. Instead, it feels like an endless prison, an endless torture to your psyche. 

You no longer consider your world as your home. I mean, how can you call it home when you don’t feel welcome in it? Home is where you feel safe, accepted, and loved. Home is where you can live in peace without having to worry about being compared to someone you once grew up with. Home is with the twenty-five men in your bedroom, the same men who nursed you back to health and saved you from many near-death experiences, the ones that encourage you to do the things you love. 

“I’m never doing nice things for them ever again,” you whisper.

Cyno shakes his head. “Don’t. They don’t deserve you,” Cyno states.

Another few days go by, and you all fall into the routine of you hiding them and them sneaking in and out of your room when they need to stretch their legs. Because you and the men never left the house, there was no need for them to shower daily, and you had to wash and dry their clothes every day. You end up stealing some clothes from your brothers’ closet for the men to wear temporarily while their clothes and undergarments are being washed and dried.

Now, here you are, watching Netflix with the men lounging around you. Some are asleep on the floor, and at the window nook, while some are reading the books and mangas they took from your bookshelf. Your head was on Pantalone’s chest, and your legs tossed over Dottore’s lap when you heard a knock on your bedroom door. Everyone around you freezes while you grab your remote and pause the show on your TV.

“Who is it?” You call out, getting off your bed and looking at the men anxiously.

“[Y/N], Jacob is here to visit you. He said he wanted to talk to you,” your sister, Alice, says from behind the door.

Hearing the familiar name made your heart want to fall out of your ass. 

“Who’s Jacob?” Venti mouths to the men in the room.

Heizou looks at you closely and then at Venti. “I think Jacob is the name of [Y/N]’s ex-boyfriend. You know, the one that was married the entire time,” Heizou whispers to Venti.

“What’s he doing here?” Ayato mutters, shutting the book and putting it back on the shelf.

You clear your throat loudly. “Tell Jacob to fuck off. I don’t want to see him or hear whatever excuses he’s trying to come up with,” you said sternly.

Alice groans and smacks the door. “[Y/N], just do it! Brandon is waiting outside for me in his car! You and Jacob can have a screaming match once I leave, alright? Mom, dad, Andrew, and Alex aren’t home,” Alice says.

You poke the inside of your cheek, your hands prop on your hips as you listen to your sister walk down the stairs. You turn to the men, gesturing for them to give you a moment before walking out of your bedroom and closing the door behind you. There stood Jacob, standing near the entrance of your room. 

“What do you want?” You roll your eyes. “And make it quick because the quicker we get through this, the quicker you leave,” you said.

Jacob approaches you and stands before you, gazing at you sadly. “Babe, do you not miss me?” He asks.

You raise an eyebrow at him and laugh sarcastically. “Oh? You’re still calling me babe? Did you forget that I’m not your babe, Jacob? I never was your babe,” you spat, taking a step back.

Jacob ignores your comment and caresses your face. “I missed you during training, you know? Not being able to see you and visit you because of how far I was,” he murmurs.

You smack Jacob’s hands away from your face. “Don’t touch me. The only person you should be touching is your wife, not some random person you decided to cheat on your wife with,” you hiss.

“Babe,” Jacob pleads.

You shake your head stubbornly. “Leave, now! I don’t want to see your face ever again!” You demand, pointing toward the stairs.

Jacob grabs your wrist and pulls you toward him. You shove him away, accidentally shoving yourself against the door to your room. Before Jacob can say anything, the door to your room flies open, and you feel someone pressing their chest against your back.

“Who the fuck are you people?” Jacob demands, glaring at the group of men crowding at the door. 

“Who we are is none of your business,” Zhongli states, glaring at the man standing before you.

”You either leave [Y/N]’s house unscathed, or you leave [Y/N]’s house with a broken nose. Your choice,” Xiao says.

Jacob scoffs and crosses his arms over his chest. “Oh? Are you going to harm [Y/N]’s boyfriend now?” Jacob demands.

“Eh!? Boyfriend!? Last time we checked, [Y/N] dumped your pathetic ass a few months ago! Now, leave and never come back,” Itto says, glaring at the tan man in front of him. 

Capitano and Pierro step forward, blocking you from Jacob’s eyes. Jacob clenches his hands into fists before storming out of the house, with Capitano and Pierro following after him to make sure he actually leaves. You rub your temples and let Kaeya wrap his arms around you, rubbing your back. After what happened, the painful headache soon returned. You wrap your arms around Kaeya’s slim waist and bury your face into his chest, trying your best not to let it show.

“Let’s take your mind off that, shall we?” Kaeya murmurs, pulling you toward your bed and laying down with you on his chest.

“We might as well get some rest. That ex-boyfriend of yours is very draining,” Pierro says gruffly upon entering the room with Capitano beside him. 

Pantalone nods. “The one that is in need of sleep is [Y/N],” Pantalone says, gesturing over to where you and Kaeya lie.

Everyone is situated in their spots, getting ready to go to sleep. Even though it was only six in the afternoon, everyone continued to lie in their temporary beds in your room to get some rest. Your vision soon blurs, and you fall asleep in Kaeya’s arms. 

You’re rudely awoken from your sleep to the sound of an alarm blaring in your ears, making you jump out of your skin and scramble to shut the alarm while it’s still dark in your room. After turning the alarm off, you squint and rub your swollen eyes.

“I never knew you set the alarm to be that loud, [Y/N],” you hear Kazuha says groggily. 

You stretch your arms in the air and yawn. “How else was I supposed to get up for school?” You ask, getting up to open the curtains to your room.

When you pull the curtains open, you’re greeted by a familiar sight. Your eyes widen, and your head snaps in the men’s direction, who are scattered around your room, slowly coming to their consciousness. 

“Oh, finally! We’re back in Teyvat,” Gorou cries out happily, sprawled out on the ground before yawning into the palm of his hands.

Dottore stands up and looks over at Albedo, who looks discombobulated. “Yes, we’re back in Teyvat, but unfortunately, we don’t know how it happened,” Dottore sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose.

You collapse on your bed, letting Kaeya wrap his arms around you and pull you to his chest. “I’m glad we’re back home,” you murmur sleepily.

Home.

You and your twenty-five boyfriends are all finally home. Finally, in the comfort of your home in Teyvat, where no one can bother you, downgrade your achievements by comparing yourself to someone else’s accomplishments. You feel safe in the presence of the men around you. The men who will never compare you to other people, the men who cherish you, celebrate your achievement, and build you up. You’re finally home with the men who loves you, the men who deserve you. Your family did not deserve you, nor did your ex-boyfriend.

Home.

You’re finally home.

Note: Next week is going to be another request! I'm trying to get through requests while dealing with university stuff 💀 I notice that some of the things in my inbox are disappearing as well 🧍🏻‍♀️ I might open the inbox again, but I'm not entirely sure when I'll be able to do that. Maybe around March or late March? Who knows. My fics on AO3 are also only visible to those who are registered users on AO3, but I'm hoping to make them visible to everyone else very soon. Maybe once my winter quarter ends, or something. Or when it's close to ending. I'm closing my taglist very soon! I'm about to reach tagging limits on Tumblr, so, if you want to be on the taglist, the Google form is right [here]. Please make sure that you allow people to mention you/tag you in posts, or else I won't be able to tag you in any future fanfics! As usual, I ONLY post on my Tumblr (Genshinluvr) and my AO3 (Aaliah_exo)! Nowhere else except Tumblr and AO3!

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[wolfjackle-creates]

Bring Me Home Arc 2 Part 20: FINAL

So guess what I realized this morning. Today, November 13, 2023 is the one year anniversary of me posting my first DPxDC fic to tumblr. It was the original fill for this very fic. (Which you can find here.)

So I decided I just had to finish this arc and get it posted. This year has been amazing and so much fun. I've become a much better writer and joined a community that has brought me so much joy. I'm glad to be here and I'm glad so many of you like to read what I'm sharing.

I noticed I got a few new readers over the past week or so, so welcome to all of you! Hope you enjoy this early update!

In personal news, my nephew was born and he's adorable and I'll be meeting him tomorrow! (As soon as I'm done posting this, I'm off to make food for his mom.)

Story Summary: Tim and Danny are both neglected by parents who care more about their work than their families. They deal with this by spending too much time online and find each other playing MMORPGs. They keep up their friendship as Tim becomes Robin and Danny becomes Phantom and don't bother keeping secrets from each other.

Arc 1

Arc 2: Part 1, Previous

Word Count: 1.2k

-----

In the end, it ended up taking several hours for Danny, Sam, and Tucker to escape their families and converge on the park. In that time, Tim had called Bruce to let him know he’d be back in Gotham by tomorrow and finished most of his homework.

While he worked, Wulf and Bart were having an animated conversation in Esperanto.

Tim was pretty sure Wulf would be bringing Bart to the Ghost Zone for a tour sometime and started making plans to learn Esperanto himself and bribe Bart to get in on them.

Cassie was helping Conner sort through some of the music Sam had given him. Tim was jealous as he solved more banal trig questions. Why did school have to be so boring? He tapped his pencil on the paper in time to the beat of whatever music Conner had playing.

Tucker was the first to arrive. “Danny and Sam not here yet?” he asked as he plopped down next to Bart and Wulf.

“Nope. Haven’t heard from them, either,” said Tim. He opened his phone notifications again just to be sure, but there was nothing new.

Tucker shrugged and pulled out a stick of jerkey to munch on. “Not surprising. The Fentons will be all overprotective after the mayor was kidnapped by a ghost on live TV. And Sam’s parents are just as bad. Only they smother rather than check the weaponry.” He turned to greet Wulf in Esperanto.

An email came through on Tim’s phone and he groaned. “Our evening interview was canceled. No one wants to hear us try to defend Phantom anymore.”

Cassie cursed. “Course not. Bet the paper won’t publish our editorials either.”

Conner looked over, confused. “Won’t they? Clark works for the Daily Planet. They publish stuff like that all the time.”

Tim didn’t look up from his math as he answered, “That’s the difference between a big, Pulitzer winning publication and a small-town op-ed.”

Tucker sighed. “Well maybe someone will remember your interviews from this morning in a positive light.”

Bart rolled his eyes. “Come on, we can’t change it. So let’s move forward. Next step, make friends with more ghosts! Wulf says there’s a bunch of cool people in the Realms.”

“Realms?” asked Tim.

“It’s what he says the Ghost Zone is actually called. The Infinite Realms.”

“Huh. I’ll have to check JL databases, see if they have any information on them.”

Tucker asked something in Esperanto and Bart burst out laughing as Wulf looked on in confusion.

With Bart’s help, though, he rephrased until Wulf was able to reply. And then the three kept to Esperanto. Tim really had to find time to learn it.

Sam was the next to arrive. She grinned and sat down next to Conner. “How you liking the music?”

Conner grinned and showed her the sheets where he ranked the bands so far based on which songs he’d listened to. She then took over the speakers and searched for specific tracks to try and change his mind about some of the bands he liked the least.

Tim let his eyes close as his friends’ voices washed over him.

After some indeterminate time where he dozed between sleeping and awareness, a foot nudged his hip. Tim grumbled out what was supposed to be a, “What?” but was too mumbled to really be understood.

“Come on, Secrets. You can do better than that.”

Tim cracked an eye open to see Danny grinning down at him. He pushed himself up slightly and blinked heavily in the sunlight.

“Finally got away from your parents?” asked Tim.

Danny collapsed on the ground next to him. “Ugh, don’t remind me. They’re freaking out over everything that’s happened the last few days. Jazz and I are basically going to be on lock down until they feel confident the ghosts are gone.”

“Did you have to sneak out to get here?” asked Cassie.

Danny shook his head. “No, I told them I was going to find you guys to make sure you were all safe. You’re welcome to come back to ours tonight, by the way. Mom and Dad basically insisted on it.”

“What do you guys think?” asked Tim. “Spend one more night here at Danny’s and head out in the morning?”

Cassie sighed. “My mom’s already freaking out that I’ve been gone longer than planned. I should get back tonight.”

“I’ll stay,” offered Conner. “I’m your ride home, anyway.”

“Why don’t you come to my place, Conner,” offered Sam. “Your nails need a fresh coat after fighting today. And I need teach you about the different brands of makeup and what to look for in terms of cost, quality, and ethicality. Plus I can get you more music.”

Tim laughed when Conner looked to him. “Go for it. Have fun.”

Conner grinned. “Then yeah, let’s do it!”

Bart shrugged. “Wulf is going to go back to the Realms soon. I’ll head out after. Wally and Linda want me over for a family dinner tonight.”

“Well, looks like that’s it, then,” sighed Danny. “Been fun having other heroes around.”

Tim nudged his shoulder. “Join the Young Justice. You could join us and we'd help out whenever you wanted. Get you around people who actually appreciate what you do for them.”

But Danny was already shaking his head. “I have to stay here. And now Amity trusts heroes even less. I want to improve that, not make it worse.”

“Even if you don’t join,” declared Conner. “You’re not getting rid of us now.”

Bart nodded his agreement. “Yep. We’re gonna be stopping by all the time. You’re in the group chat.”

“Exactly,” agreed Tim. “And we’ll figure out ways to help you. Starting with how to minimize property damage. That seems to be the big thing people focus on. You can make shields, right? How big can you make them and how much power do they take?”

Danny smiled wryly. “Can’t say I’ve really tested it.”

Tim laughed. “Well, I know one thing we’re doing tonight. We’re going to go back to Nasty Burger—” Tim looked around at the whole group “—all of us. Then Cassie and Bart are going to go home. Danny and I, at least, are going to take a nap. Then we’re gonna test the current limits to Danny’s powers.”

Danny bumped their shoulders together. “You know, this is just like gaming with you all those years.”

“Yeah, well, it’s best to be thorough.”

“We’ve measured, like, his top speed and stuff,” said Tucker, pulling out a PDA. “Want to see what we’ve got so far?”

“Absolutely.” Tim took the device and looked through it. “You’ve a decent amount of information here. Maybe instead of taking a nap, I’ll help you organize it and come up with a testing plan.”

Conner flew over to him and pulled the PDA out of his hand. “Not after pulling an all-nighter you won’t. We’re going to get some food, then the two of you are going to sleep for at least four hours.”

“I’ll set Jazz on you, too,” threatened Sam. “Don’t think I won’t.”

Tim pouted as the device was given back to Tucker. And grumbled more when Conner picked him up and threw him over his shoulder.

“Come on, food time.”

“I am going to put kryptonite in your phone,” threatened Tim.

“Bingo!” shouted Cassie.

Danny laughed as he stood. “Does this mean I can join the next round?”

Tim scowled. “Traitors, all of you.”

-----

Next

And that's the end of this Arc! Arc 3 will pick up where the original fill did. (Only this time, Tim won't be the only DC character there to help Danny.)

I'd say something like I can't believe it's only been a year, but so much has happened to me in the last twelve months that it feels like a lifetime ago, to be honest. But it's been a good year and I'm glad this community has been part of it.

Please follow the subscription post if you want updates for when I start transferring this arc to AO3 or begin posting Arc 3.

[matenrou-fan]

~Intoxication~

Me: oh I just will take a day off from Tumblr! *writing the biggest fic I ever made.*

Anyways this idea was in my mind for a pretty long time but I was kinda indecisive to start this work. Feel more nervous than when I posted another pretty dirty fic as this time it's much harsher. So please read tags carefully.

Intoxication of love.. or of lust? Diavolo didn't know himself what exactly was outweighed in his chest, but there's something he knows for sure - he'll make you his today.

femreader, possessive!Diavolo, delusional!Diavolo, aphrodisiac, oral (receiving), fingering (receiving), dirty talk, crempie, drugging, dumbification, non-con, slut shaming, Master/slave undertones;; 3914 words;; Please contact me if you think I forgot to add something!

NSFW UNDER THE CUT

;MINORS DNI;

Just another evening in Demon Lord's Castle.. Well, at least from your point of view, as everything was so casual, casual as it was a few days ago, and a week ago, and a month ago. There's no fear or thrilling excitement that tickles in your chest when you visit such a luxurious place for the first few times. And of course you stop seeing Lord Diavolo as someone authoritative and powerful, more like a good friend who you don't mind to tease sometimes.

But that's what he's needed, that's what he expected to see - a zero suspicion or careful attention from you. And that is what would help him to put his plan into practice.

"Mm, s/o, you're here! I was waiting for you." - With a usual big smile he got closer, flung out his arms in a lavish gesture.

All speeches are well prepared. All his actions, every movement is well prepared. Not too perfect to evoke a feeling of falseness, but without any wild surprises, keeping your guard down.

Today he's more collected than before his official meetings or important events. Why? Because losing his status or just getting a little confused on scene is not bothering his heart as much as thoughts about losing you on a strange path of your relationship with demons around. Moving closer to one demon brother, than to another, like a little brat that just plays on crossroads but never stepping too far away in one certain direction. And moreover, never looking in his way, stepping on Diavolo's side only when you're too bored and have no right mood with these seven jerks. You just know how to play with their hearts, and today there would be a punishment. Don't want to get closer on your own? Be ready that sooner or later there will be a strong arm that just finally drags you to one of the ways. And the young Lord is willing to make you fall into his ground. To his feet.

"Sorry that I didn't text you back sooner.. Was a little bit busy." - your soft smile is adorable, but he notices how the corners of your lips twitch a little before lifting up. Oh, busy? You always have this 'guilty smile', that's what he called it, when getting late in RAD or in his Castle, or somewhere else, just because you were having fun with someone else, not because you're busy. Foolish and so air headed outside, Diavolo actually carefully remembered all pieces of information about you, all these small differences in your reactions..

"Ah, it's okay! I'm ready to forgive you, but only if you would tell me what happened.." - no indication of envy or anger, only this slight flirt that he always did, which always makes you think you're in charge and can tease him a little.

"Oh, nothing too serious. You know, just Mammon again is-"

Listening to your voice while you two sit at the table, Diavolo truly listens to all this nonsense, showing his usual reaction - laugh and just a little bit of jealousy about you all having such a good time in House of Lamentation. But it's just a piece of his attention, when inside his thoughts were far away from all these demons, as he concentrated on a cup of herbal tea in your arm. Almost full without a few sips, maybe he should shut your mouth a little and tell you something too so you would pay more attention to your drink? Effect would last pretty long yet his patience is otherwise.

♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡

"Really? I never knew that.." - you mumble, smiling weakly as you look at your almost empty cup. It was such a pretty long day, that's why you suddenly start feeling kinda strange? Something like drowsiness, but at the same time like a second wind too.. Like if you didn't sleep for a few days and all your motions get so slow but suddenly a new wave of energy hits your body.. But not in some fresh way, as these goosebumps on your skin make you heated up. It's like it hits not your whole insides, but only the lower part…? The more you try to describe your own feelings, the more confused you get. Such a mix of thoughts in your head makes you dizzy.

Oh. oh. And of course Diavolo quickly noticed that. Who, as if not your generous, kind and cheerful friend who invited you to visit him today, will help you now?

"S/o, is everything alright?" - the itch to add some slight mockery in his tone was almost irresistible, but that's too early for something like that. There's plenty of time for him to have some fun with vengeance for all days that you ignored him..

"No, I think I just don't sleep that well tonight.." - a small trembling sigh escapes your lips, as you rub your temple in circle motions. But thoughts keep fading away in the middle of sentences, how can you even explain to him properly this strange sudden fatigue?

"Hm, maybe we should have a little walk around my Castle? It always helps me feel a little bit more fresh.."

Diavolo's right, as it helps you too sometimes, especially when you just want to clear your head, like right now.

But today the corridors of his residence were more like a labyrinth, and even familiar places were so far away and strange for you. Necessity of carrying on a conversation did not divert you from this nagging waves of pain, and the cheerful, unstoppable bubbling of the young Lord just turns your mind into a complete mush. Where were your thoughts, and where was his one, that he pushed in your mind with this chirping..? Your weak whining was the only response to his question that you didn't even understand. Perfect.

"S/o..?" - Snaps of fingers were so close to your nose but you didn't even react that well, only shrugging a little. You lazily turned to face Diavolo, but not for scolding him for such boorish behavior, your minds didn't even produce a thought about this being disrespectful or just strange. You turn just because he attracted your attention in this way, that's it, and Diavolo loves how quickly you get so obedient. What else can he try then?

"You hear me? Are you alright?" - This time there's undisguised mockery, yet you didn't get mad, once again. And even when he steps closer and squeezes your waist with his hands, in a pretty firm grip on purpose, you only furrow your brows and mumble:

"Dia.. Wha.." - Without that much resistance. The way you place your hands on his shoulders even can be called like some romantical move, only slight attempts of pushing tells him that you're not really understand what's going on. Maybe even not like it or hate it, in the very depth of your minds, where his drug didn't reach for now? But it just turns him more.

That's it. You ARE weak now. The kindness and compassion have left, leaving you with a cold, dominant demon - one who is in control.

Throwing away this obligation of controlling his wishes, he drops his hands on your hips and moves you closer to himself with one quick, harsh pull. Warmth of your body was intoxicating, almost a Siren's call but in physical form. He even can feel slight movements of fingers that were now sandwiched between your and his chest. Honey, are you still trying to push him away?

"Dia.. It's wrong.." - And there's a Siren's call itself. Weak call that shows just how dizzy you are, how far away from reality.. A call to destroy your minds completely.

His hands squeezed your ass, pushing you closer and higher, on the same level to his face. Already on weak legs, all you can do to scoot up is just lean to Diavolo's body, letting him manhandle you now.

Somewhere through this fog in your brains you hear your own scream that beg to fight, to push him away. Somewhere through this wild burn in your body you feel some kind of fear and disgust, that telling you this is not a right way to do the thing, that something is wrong.. But these smacks of a little desperation were too weak to make a breach in the wall of thick, strange arouse that start arising in your bosom from such close contact with another body. Moreover, every minor thought faded away under pressure of Diavolo's lips.

It's more like he tries to devour you than kiss, pushing his tongue inside your mouth without warning as soon as you just gasp from his tight grasp on your ass. Rolls his tongue over and around your own, pushing it as deeply into your narrow mouth as he can, Diavolo didn't pay any attention to a new way of struggling from your side. Or maybe he feels every small push, enjoying it?

Tickles of the tip of his tongue on your palate sends waves of goosebumps directly in your minds, making your whole body hummed in response. And small vibrations of your moans titillate both you and him, boiling your already heated up minds.

Even a loud thud of the door behind you didn't bother you that much, and only when Diavolo pulled away himself, throwing on the mattress, did you wake up. Just a little, only able to realize you're in another room, with a big soft bed underneath you.

It's actually his bedroom that you visited oh so many times yet never leave your scent on his pillows or sheets, sitting only on the same couch every time. But right now whatever sense you got left in your brains wasn't enough to remember that, or even to panic from the fact you got dragged here and didn't even notice this. Everything was concentrated on Diavolo, who's towering over you, and on this burning feeling in your chest that makes it hard to breathe.

"You look so much better like this, darling." - It’s like a lover’s whisper but there’s a cruel, depraved edge to it that chills the heart. It’s almost like the whisper of a predator that knows its prey is helpless and won’t escape no matter how much it struggles. - "So much better with me, than with anyone else.."

The moment you weakly open your mouth to mumble some nonsense he gobbles you up again, no less but even more hungrily than before. Even Diavolo himself didn't know his appetite for you was so wild, but now, when he finally unleashes his true intentions, that doesn't matter. He can do anything he wants with you, and as long as he wants..

Every touch and kiss lewding you in some dirty, twisted way. Trails of his hands on your body were like burning sharp knives, like electrical discharges that increased this unbearable heat. Fragile whine in his mouth was the only retort you were capable of, but for Diavolo it sounds like some needy beg rather than a strong protest. You're not asking to leave you alone, you're asking to reduce this dizzying temperature in your insides.

Ripping and throwing away all your clothes sounds like a good help, isn't it? Your arms falling slack on sheets, too powerless to resist his actions, so pretty soon the only thing that hid your body from his sharp gaze was your underwear.

Just for a moment Diavolo pulled away to admire this new view that he imagined in his dreams for so long - round chest heaves with your deep, unsteady breaths, and your stomach rises and falls with each. Smoothest of your skin was on a higher level than any expensive, luxury fabric he ever was able to touch. And this scent.. No one of all incubus or succubus can compare with this throbbing seduction of your smell. But doesn't this mean he's the victim here, acting under the charm of your beauty?

"It's all your fault, s/o.." - leaning closer, he groans in your ear. Maybe you don't really understand what he's talking about, as every small brush of his skin on your naked one interrupts any incipient thoughts, but it doesn't mean he has no right to tell all these things that are stored up in the depth of his soul. - "Everything could have been different if you wouldn't be like that, playing and fucking around with everyone.."

He grabs your chin to make look up at him - eyes have taken on a distant look, and your lips are trembling, trying to breathe more.. Yes, you definitely almost don't understand him, only sligh shine of confusion and fear in your eyes through a fog of lust can be seen. But it's better like this, cause now you at least don't resist his action.

Long, wet path of kisses on your body, as if Diavolo tries to mark every small part of your skin with his lips. The closer he moves to your trembling hips, the more sloppy his movements get, and when he finally stops right in front of your waistband, heavily breathing, his kisses are more reminiscent of some hungry impatient licks. Hot unsteady breath makes you whimper again and you look at him with half-lidded eyes, confused with his action. Your body is being flooded with a mix of unreal arouse and some creeping fear. Maybe this drug was good enough to turn your brains and body into a complete mess, but something in your guts keeps screaming to stop this.

"Dia.. Don't.. S-stop.."

"Don't stop? Of course, my darling.." - a low growl as his lips are within a breath of distance from your clit.

He presses his whole face to your cunt, drowning into warm wetness and intoxicating scent. Thin fabric of your panties was more like a tease for you when he started licking your folds right through panties. Like some poor, starving for months puppy, he pounced upon your pussy like it was a sacred dish.

His big hands moved from your waist to your thighs, spreading them apart as you kept squeezing them together and bothering his fun. One warning bite on your inner thigh before he pulled down your underwear with his teeth.

For a moment your and his eyes meet each other, as if he gives you another warning to not keep being a brat even in such a state and just gives him what he wants.

But his visage started to warp, along with this stern look - you break. Moaning, you toss your head back and lift your hips, begging to continue. All last hopes and screams leave your mind, nagging, painful ache that was waiting for release, win.

"That's it. What a fucking good girl you can be.."

Leaving your legs apart, he moved his hand to open your labia. Small throbbing clit, and this clenching around nothing hole.. His own dick twitch, so hard and hot in his pants, but Diavolo can wait just a little bit more to play all his fantasies.

Nimble fingers up against a bundle of nerves, then upwards, enjoying every millimeter. Such a small thing and such a light stroke, yet your whole body hummed in response. Slowly moving up and down, then in circular movements, Diavolo remembered every reaction, every gasp and whimper along with sudden shrugs of your shoulders or legs.. Do you not love like this, and prefer like that? He'll keep that in mind for the future, when you wake from drugs just to see him ready to repeat everything.

His fingers get lower, playing between folds, soaking in your juices while he presses his mouth to your clit. Just a small kiss, as he squeezes a sensitive spot with his lips, but your voice immediately gets higher, hips lift even more, as if you try to find more friction. What a cute reaction.. Opening his mouth and sucking your clit in, at the same time pushing it with his tongue, he didn't move his eyes from your face even for a second, devouring every slight twitch of your brows or lips. The way you start whining more, the way your needy cunt clenches more every time his fingers pressed around your entrance… In Diavolo's mind it means only one thing - there's no way you're enjoying this only because of befuddling drugs, you're enjoying it because you're just a little obedient slave that waited to be taken in some harsh and rough way. And Diavolo doesn't mind to show who's your master now.

Even when he pushes his finger in, without any warnings, you didn't pried him off, but moved further, letting him sink inside you and he quickly added another finger. Are you so loosened up because of an aphrodisiac he also added to this tea, or is it just a normal reaction of your body when somebody is being so irreverent with you? Thoughts about you always being like this just for him, only for him, always ready to feel him inside you and being so obediently silent with your disagreements but so loud with your sinful moans.. It's starting to be unbearable for him too, so his fingers quickly get in pretty fast pace, stretching your walls.

"You liked it, didn't you? You liked being such a fucking slut.." - Diavolo groans, tickling your clit with a low husky breath. Weak gasp from your lips didn't sound like a good response, so he disdainfully squeezed your tensed nerves between his teeth, just a little, but enough to draw more pleasant to his ears high pitched whine from your chest. - "Keep showing me how you like that.."

Like if your body is drawn to follow the orders of the young Lord, you immediately moan again, but this time from a strong aggressive hit of his fingers inside you cunt. Your surroundings began to swim with every thrust, as your hips jut upwards in one rhythm with his hand. Pulsation in your core reaches its peak, making you shudder in agony of enthralling pleasure, before you cum.

Such a strong wave that it is almost painful, like some piercing discharge. Your muscles feel more relaxed yet your insides are not revealed but filled even more with some dirty coercion to ache and beg for another release, and then for another and another.. Like you never would be satisfied, feeling this yearning that is amplified with drugs in your body again and again. And Diavolo knows that, ready to use you, who's now at his disposal, till blackness would crowd in on your vision and you would fall into deep narcotic sleep… Or maybe even after that?

Low groan thundered on the whole room when his now exposed dick twitch from cold air. Diavolo leans closer and grope your waist, almost buries you under his weight when his flushed head glides down your folds and presses to your clenching cunt, mixing his precum with your juices. Your hips wiggled a bit to grind back to his cock and he can't help but smirk, enjoying the way you completely forget about your arrogant behavior and get so obedient.. so needy to his dick. Now he just needs to make sure to pound you so good that you will be like that even without any aphrodisiac.

Pushing himself deep inside your wet cunt, he froze for a moment. Not to make you get used to his pretty thick length, but to give himself some time to overcome his strong goosebumps from your tightness. It feels much better than he ever can imagine, than he ever can make himself feel with the calloused seal of his own hand.. Almost if he's the one who's being corrupted here, not you.

He starts to slide back his cock out of your pussy and then to slide in with more force, just to experience this tickle on the back of his head once more. There's no way he can be gentle even in the beginning, when you lewding him like that with these pathetic whines. You wrap your legs around his wait yourself, you just BEG to be fucked, not crying to stop. Even your grasp on his shoulders is just the way to show your desire and these scratches from your nails on his skin is just a passion, he knows for sure.

Hovering over you like a predator over his prey, he just starts thrusting in some aggressive speed, stretching your walls with such force it's turning your minds into havoc. More marks on your body - kisses, hickeys, scratches - he will make sure there's no place that he didn't touch with his lips or didn't grope with his hands.

But the main act that will reinforce his point of owning you is only in the future, but his dick already starts grinding from thoughts about filling your pussy with his cum again and again. And even if you would be too full to take more with this greedy cunt, there's another holes in your body he would be glad to fulfill to the very end.

"You were waiting for it, didn't you? Whining my name like a little bitch in heat." - he whispered right in your ear but even such close contact didn't help to get his words into your empty head. Your mouth moved on its own, calling him in desperate moans as you didn't know yourself if you actually started begging for more or still resisting his wild urges.. But did it actually matter at such a moment? As there is no escape from the suffocating delight of unravel underneath him.

Your pussy starts to spasm, ready for another breakneck orgasm. And you feel his dick grinding against your walls in response, spreading soaking precum inside you. Grasp on your waist was strong enough to break a bone, but Diavolo moved one arm to hold your chin in the same firm grip and make you look up at him. He just wants to see how your eyes would be darkened by another wave of pleasure, how you would look when he finally made you completely his.. Rough sloppy kiss before he slammed his dick fully inside you, shooting hot sperm in your cervix. Tightening around the base of his dick, your cunt was almost milking him, sucking every drop with wild pulsations.

Some sort of sore starts nagging in your body and you collapse on the bed, mewling for some break. But only a few seconds was enough to catch a breath to a demon, as he started moving again even in a more aggressive way, slapping your hips with his own. None of your whines never would be considered as asking to stop, Diavolo just doesn't hear any painful undertones on your voice, just some luring possession that resonates with his delusional mind.

His dick was stiff again, hitting your sensitive spot with swollen glans with every thrust. Hitting your whole body with new waves that turn you more and more into some dumb, empty doll for his wishes and desires.

Diavolo will make sure to turn you into some obedient cock slave through some good punishment for all this time he was the one who's missed you. Now it's his time to be in charge and make you beg, and yearn, and cry for him.. to make you addicted to his love.. or lust?

[abibliophobiaa]

Hi Luna! I hope you're feeling better! I hope you don't mind me asking, but I was wondering if you know what happened to Emmy's (upsidedownwithsteve)'s blog? I was away all day yesterday and when I went to read one of her fics last night, it asked me for a password? If you don't feel comfortable answering this, I totally understand. I would also be happy to come off anon to chat directly if that makes more sense. Anyway, can't wait for the final part of RWYLM and I hope you feel better soon! Xx

She actually just posted something over on AO3, for anyone who was looking and searching (I saw a few people asking yesterday alone). I posted it down below.

It’s unfortunate that people on here are just so nasty. And it’s honestly why you’re seeing the fandom continue to shrink. I don’t really understand what people’s goals are. Other than being mean for the sake of being mean.

You curate your own space, and when you run all the writers off this site, what fandom experience are you going to have left? Think about it.

It makes me not even want to be on this site anymore (I’ve already been limiting my time on, which I’m sure many have noticed). And I’m sure I’m not the only one on here feeling this way as well.

I’d just say check on your favorite authors, because it definitely hurts when one (like Emmy and many others at this point) that we all love gets quite literally run off the site. And I’m sure it also prompts some to reevaluate whether or not this is a safe or fun space anymore.

Especially when this is someone (Emmy) who has always been kind to those around her (myself included), and is running her own business and pregnant. She should be ENJOYING this season, and some people just have literally no sense of decorum or common decency.

Remember that WE ARE ALL HUMANS ON HERE.

KINDNESS is free.

Just some food for thought. 🤍

[judasofsuburbia]

get up and shake the glitter off your clothes || steddie vegas au

rating: explicit || pairing: steve harrington/eddie munson || word count: 11021 || read here

summary:

He looks positively debauched in the mirror. There is glitter smeared all over his face. Hair standing at all angles and hickies littering his neck and chest. His hands instantly go to them, pressing into them to make sure he’s not making them up when he notices a ring on his left finger.

Eddie’s mood ring.

No fucking way.

or: the spicy six go to vegas. steve and eddie get married but they don't remember a thing. steve's convinced himself that eddie's feelings were all a drunken mistake. but were they?

title and fic based off of: Waking Up In Vegas by Katy Perry

YAY SHE'S FINALLY HERE!! i posted a blurb for this au back in APRIL and now it's done! the biggest thank you to @fragilecapric0rnn for editing and beta reading AND ALSO OFFERING TO MAKE THIS INCREDIBLE HEADER!! thank you to the big boys: @figthefruitfaeth @kkpwnall @gideoncharov @cheatghost @gothbat99 @fastcardotmp3 @hellsfireclub for your never ending love and support. and finally, thank you to everyone on tumblr who showed that blurb so much love!! i hope you enjoy this fic<3

[musings-of-a-rose]

I Don't Want to See Tomorrow (Unless I See It With You) - Chapter 2

Pairing: Benny Miller x f!reader nicknamed "Juni"

Word Count: 3200+

Rating: Mature - 18+ ONLY!

Warnings: Just like ao3, “creator chooses not to use warnings.” If you click Keep Reading, that means you agree that you’re the age to handle mature themes. Also by clicking Keep Reading, you understand warnings may not be complete in order to avoid spoilers for the story. 

Notes: I've had this idea in my head for well over a year and with the Fallout show being dropped (and absolutely AMAZING), I figured now was the time to post it! So this is a Triple Frontier/Fallout crossover au. Huge shoutout to @mermaidxatxheart for listening to probably hours of audio at this point of me talking myself through this fic. And to @deathbecomesnerds for listening to me prattle on about video game fics and giving me her own advice.

**If you want to be added to the taglist, join here or let me know!

❤If you enjoy the fic, please consider giving me a warm beverage! (It is not required in any way!)

→Tell Tumblr this should be shared with others by reblogging! That's what the algorithm loves (it's how it works here. I don't make the rules!)

**Reader is not described

Main Masterlist

Benny Miller Masterlist

I Don’t Want to See Tomorrow (Unless I See It With You) Masterlist

As my brain starts to wake up, the first thing I notice is that I'm cold. Like, really cold. The aches in my body feel like when you fall asleep and don't move the entire night, your muscles and bones stiff from a few hours of inactivity. How long does decontamination normally take? And why is it so cold?

Slowly, I pry my eyes open, blinking as rapidly as I can, feeling little icicles on my eyelashes. My head had been slumped to the side, the slight crick in my neck making itself known, the ache radiating down into my shoulder. I gasp, my lungs burning like they hadn't had a good breath in a long while. What the fuck was happening?

Slowly, I start to feel my limbs so I give my toes and fingers a little wiggle, managing to make them move. Then I work my way up my body. The more I can move, the more I start to panic. There's nowhere to move in this metal box. I weakly move my hand into a fist, pounding pathetically on the glass window in front of me. Oh God, what if it doesn't open? Isn't there someone who will open it?

Before I can spiral further, the door in front of me hisses and opens up with a loud groan, metal grinding against metal. I fall out, my hands coming up just in time to slow my fall as I slam against the hard floors. I cough, gasping for fresh air as my body starts to warm up. I manage to get up and sit on my knees, chest still heaving as I take in gulps of air. Where are the labcoats? Surely they didn't forget about us?

My eyes start to focus and I stare at a point in front of me until my vision clears. I blink hard a few times before looking around, a nervous tension starting to ball itself up in my stomach. The room is dark, save for some emergency lighting. The paint on the walls is chipped, dust covering some of the machinery that I remember being bright and shiny. I look around, slowly standing to my feet when it hits me.

It's completely silent.

No hissing of the machinery, no beeping, no sounds of people. Nothing. I take a tentative step towards the machine next to mine, catching myself on the little computer panel as I stumble. Glancing up into the pod, I see someone in there, eyes closed, still, and silent. I tap a few buttons on the panel but nothing happens. I reach out and knock on the window but the person inside doesn't move. I repeat this process on every pod in the room and get the same results, my heart thumping, the rate increasing rapidly with every pod. No one is awake and judging by the lack of sound, I'm not sure they're even alive. Not anymore.

I shake my limbs out, working some of the final stiffness out of them. Where is everyone? Why hasn’t anyone come around to check on people? Surely there are systems in place for this? I cautiously approach the door to the room. To my surprise, it's already open. I pop my head out and look in the hallway. Completely empty. I find another 5 rooms like the one I was in, every one exactly like mine. My body is fully awake by the last room, my breaths coming out quick and shallow to match my racing heart, panicked tears falling down my cheeks that I furiously try to wipe away. Am I the only one left alive?

Through my increasing panic, I finally find a computer not attached to a pod and somehow, it's still on. I sit in the chair and wipe at my eyes with my sleeve. I click around and am surprised it wasn't better locked down. The scientist that used it kept a very detailed journal of what happened. I read all of the entries, my heart sinking and blood boiling with every new one.

Apparently, they were not decontamination chambers but cryo ones. As in they froze us. Which would explain why it had been so cold. They were going to keep us under for varying degrees of time, to test the effects of cryo sleep on humans. Test? What the fuck? But they had only planned to be down here about 10 years or so. When it was reaching the end of those 10 years, rations started to dwindle and there was no communication with Vault-Tech outside of the vault they were in. People started to lose it. There was a mutiny and the Overseer was...wait did I read that right? Killed and fed to everyone still here? Eventually, it looks like everyone died and the generators were to continue on running until they couldn’t. The logs all say there was a malfunction in life support. So I was right - everyone except me is dead.

The feeling of being alone, completely alone, closes in on me, and oh my God what if I can’t get out of here? There’s no one here to let me out. I sit back in the chair, absolutely stunned at what I just read, my mind starting to spiral down a dark path. But...wait. If they froze us, and the mutiny had happened within 10 years...what year was it now?

I lean forward, clicking around to find the slot for a new entry and hit automatic date.

June 10th, 2277

That can't be right. I tap the button again.

June 10th, 2277.

I stare at the date. It's not the months that bother me but the year. 200 years have passed? This has to be a malfunction of the computer. There's no way that's the correct date. But something in the back of my mind tingles, a new feeling of dread deep in my gut. Benny. If it really has been 200 years, then even if he got to a vault and survived, there’s no way he’d be alive. Bile threatens to spill from me and I swallow, trying to prevent it. The computer is wrong, though. Benny is alive still. He has to be. 

I stand up and look down at the skeleton with a labcoat on the ground, wondering if that was the same man who had smiled creepily at me as I got into that frozen coffin. The bones are twisted into an inhuman shape, the arm bent at an odd angle. Right before I look away, I see it. The small computer wrapped around the skeleton’s arm. I kneel down, hesitating for a moment before reaching over, trying to pry the Pip Boy computer from around its forearm. It's like it's stuck on the bones and I gag a little as I slam the arm down, the hand bones scattering. But the Pip Boy slides right off.

I pick it up, dust it off a little with my hand and slide it onto my arm, feeling the slight pinch of the sensors embedding themselves into my skin. I turn a few buttons, having used one at the university when I was studying, and the screen lights up, my face washed in the familiar green glow, giving me some small bit of comfort in its familiarity. I navigate to the map section and it shows me the layout of the vault. Using the little light on the side of the Pip Boy, I follow the map towards the front of the vault, slowly making my way past debris and other corpses, some in very violent positions. One of them has their boney fingers wrapped around a large knife. A machete. Holding back another gag, I manage to pry it from the person's death grip, shifting it from hand to hand. I hold it in the opposite hand from the Pip Boy, just in case I need to swing. But surely nothing is down here, right? The vaults are sealed shut. So I should be safe. I think…I hope.

Everything is so fucking quiet it's almost deafening. I feel like the walls are closing in on me, trying to lock me away forever in this tomb, just like my fellow vault occupants. What was Vault Tec thinking?

I make it to the front entrance, the giant, heavy metal vault door securely closed. My eyes scan the room and land on a small control panel, more skeletons in labcoats scattered around it. I walk over to it, staring down at the simple panel. How the fuck does this work? I smash the big button but nothing happens. There's a round slot on the left side and I remember the Pip Boy has a sensor module. I pop out the sensor cord and plug it in, the panel lights immediately light up. A small sigh of relief escapes me. Thank God there's power! My Pip Boy lights up, telling me the remote door access is ready. But I hesitate before hitting the button again. Assuming this door opens, all I have is a machete. And if that computer is anywhere close to being right, I have no idea what the surface will even look like.

I unplug the Pip Boy and look around again, spotting a room off to the side labeled SECURITY. Thankfully, the door opens to a small room with a couple of desks and several lockers. A few of them don't open but others do and I'm quickly furnished with some sort of hand gun, a shot gun that I sling over my back, and some ammo. I also score a couple cans of purified water, some Fancy Lads Snack Cakes, a Salisbury Steak, and some Yum Yum Deviled Eggs. It's not much, but I'm better than I was. I just won't think about how old this food is, even if the computer is wrong. One of the dead security guards was holding a backpack. I take it, shake off some dust and find more ammo inside and another purified water. I put all the food and ammo into the bag and secure it, sliding it around my back, and moving the shotgun to my arm.

I decide to do one last sweep of the small vault before heading back to the main access vault door. I find a small blanket and an axe, along with another couple of boxes of food, half-eaten, and some old comics. Grognak the Barbarian. Benny loved these. Tears well in my eyes, that bile rising in the back of my throat at the idea of him being gone. I shake my head, pushing the intrusive thoughts aside, and slide the comics into my backpack. 

I repeat the process at the panel, with no hesitation in pressing the large, red button this time. The heavy metal of the round vault door groans, sparks flying from some of the unused gears helping the vault door to spin open, revealing the elevator we came down on. My mind flashes back to that moment, just barely escaping with our lives. It was mere minutes ago to me and I haven't really had a moment to process it. Any of this. I just need to get somewhere safe. Or at least familiar, to get my bearings.

I head down the walkway and hesitate for a moment before stepping onto the platform. I punch the button on the cage wall surrounding me and the gate door I came through closes. Slowly and with creaks and groans, the floor starts to rise, leaving the cage and vault behind. Again, I'm thrust into darkness for a short bit, my breath coming out in heavy pants. I'm not even sure if it's safe up here, but if I'd stayed down there I'd have died anyway so what does it matter?

Pure, blinding light breaks the darkness as I'm lifted up, the platform settling onto its original spot and locking in place. I lift my hand to shield my eyes from the bright sun, momentarily blinded by it. I blink rapidly, squinting a bit more before things come into focus and now I have to blink back tears.

Destruction. Everything is sort of grey and leveled, some occasional muted green popping up in weird angles, like weeds coming through a sidewalk. I can see the skyline of Boston in the distance, the buildings mostly gone into piles of rubble or mostly rubble. Some still stand, like broken scraggly fingers that were too stubborn to fully fall. Benny had been there and if he survived, he was buried underneath all of that.

I tear my eyes away from the horror and turn to head back down the path that will lead me to my parent's home where I had been when....no. I can't think about that until I'm in a safe place. A faint, high-pitched squeak brings me from my dark thoughts and I turn just in time to see something fly at me. I react on instinct, trying to dodge but fall, the thing managing to clip my shoulder as it comes at me. I grip the machete tight in my hand and bring it up just as the world's biggest fucking roach jumps on me, its pinchers at least the length of my fingers, its body easily half the length of me. Its legs scramble as it screams, my machete having ripped through it. I yell as I push with all I can to move it off me, tossing it to the side as I scramble backward as fast as I can manage. What the fuck is that thing? It's still moving so I stand up and promptly kick its head in with my boot several times, continuing to do so long after it had stopped moving. My skin crawls as I look at the size of this thing.

Of course. Everything would've been radiated. Deer with two heads, giant fucking bugs, apparently. Weren’t roaches supposed to outlive us all, especially in the case of nuclear war? It only makes sense that mutations would've happened. But if this happened to roaches, what else has happened?

My body shudders at the thought and I tuck that one away for later. I yank my machete out of the giant fucking roach, flinging off its gooey guts and wiping it off in the dirt before starting back down the path. Fortunately, no other wildlife crosses my path as I step back onto the street that runs past my parent's house.

The neighborhood is...gone. Most of the houses are either completely destroyed or half crumbling, the previously perfectly manicured yards no longer exist. New plants have taken over, their foreign petals and colors intriguing the scientist side of me, but I keep my distance, not knowing what fresh hell they could bring upon humans.  Besides, that's not what I'm here for.

I turn and walk slowly down the street, my eyes sweeping from side to side. I spot movement and as my eyes focus on it, I nearly scream with excitement. I start to run towards it, almost crashing into the Mr. Handy robot that had been my family's.

"Hawthorne?" I gasp, my eyes wide with wonder.

His large metal head spins towards me, his round metal eye widening as he takes me in. "Ma'am? Miss Juni?"

I can't help but cry tears of joy. Something, someone that remembers me! For the first time since I woke in that vault turned tomb, I don’t feel alone.

"It's me! I can't believe you're still here!"

Hawthorne launches into a retelling of his time here, how the bombs pretty much destroyed most of Boston, how our fellow neighbors that didn't have a spot in the vaults died within hours of the initial blasts, although some took a few days. Others...I'm not sure what he's talking about. Ghouls? I’ll have to ask him more about that later. But then he's on another topic, discussing how hard it is to maintain the property for the last 200 years and how lonely he's been waiting for us and- wait. What?

"Hawthorne?"

"Ma'am?"

"I...I am sorry you had to deal with all of this alone."

"Thank you, ma'am. I do understand that humans are fragile things and had you remained with me, you would not have survived. I am very glad you did not die."

"Thank you, Hawthorne. I'm glad you're here too. But.. to confirm, did you say 200 years?

"Yes ma'am."

"200 years… since what?"

"Since the bombs fell, ma'am."

I can feel the blood drain from my face. "What's the date?"

"June 10th, 2277."

My legs start to wobble and I slump to the ground, putting my head in my hands as I rest my elbows on my bent legs. 200 years? I thought the computer had malfunctioned. But it all makes sense. The state of the vault, the way things look, that radroach thing...I feel my breathing picking up, hyperventilating as realization dawns on me.

I was right before. It doesn't matter if Benny made it to a vault. He would've lived a full life and died a long time ago.

The scream erupting from my throat is the last thing I remember before my vision fades to black.

When I wake, I'm in a bed. Well, on a mattress anyway. I look around without moving and realize I'm in my old bedroom, the one my parents never quite remade into anything else. Most of the walls are intact, only the one with the window is missing half the panels. And the roof only has a few holes in it. Nothing that Benny and I can't-

Benny.

I turn to my side just in time, throwing up whatever was in my stomach for the last 200 years onto the floor. But that's nothing compared to the hole in my chest, the one that ripped itself open at the realization that I would have to face this new, broken world without my other half, my anchor. My stomach doesn't settle, still churning at the thought, the tears pouring from my eyes as I curl into myself. I don't even say anything to Hawthorne as he comes in and cleans the mess, setting down one of the bottles of purified water and some snacks from my backpack on the cracked nightstand.

What's even the point of going on if I don't have him with me?

Unless….

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[orionsangel86]

I'm sorry but why do you ship them so hard? They just have 1 episode together.. I watched the sandman expecting destiel and it was literally almost nothing there. 1 episode. Idk how you guys got so much ship content out of that.

Ah nonny, I'm sorry but if you go into anything expecting Destiel you are gonna be dissappointed. Destiel is a behemouth of 12 years worth of gradually escalating gay subtext, queer coding, and romantic tropes. Destiel is the ship that people go into expecting that Tumblr exaggerated only to be blown away by how ridiculously gay it is even when it tries so hard not to be.

But remember, once upon a time people shipped Destiel after only a few moments of interaction. The first Destiel fic was written 30 minutes after Lazarus Rising aired...everything has its time.

When I joked that Dreamling was the "Destiel of Sandman fandom" I meant in terms of popularity compared to everything else about the show. The ships share some similar traits when compared on a grand scale - think ancient cosmic entity that has very strict rules slowly changes and starts to become more "human" thanks to their friendship with one dude who just so happens to be a hedonistic stubborn ass who refuses to die - but are otherwise very different.

But if you are wondering why people ship Dream and Hob so hard, well, this post goes some ways to explaining it.

But basically, look this may only be a half hour of television, but it doesn't equate in universe to half an hour of interaction. This half hour of television spans the course of 6 centuries for these two characters. There is a totally untapped potential hidden in the gaps between centuries to explore, and on top of that, the final meeting is left completely up to the imagination of the audience. Its a sandbox ship. Its a dozen fanfiction gaps laid on top of each other. It's at least 20 different prompts for fans to sink their teeth into. Its the potential. It's the what if.

Then on top of that, if you follow the comics, you know that the future Dream x Hob meetings also have a hell of a lot of potential to turn romantic. Dream going out of his way to hunt down a specific bottle of wine that doesn't exist on Earth anymore to gift it to Hob in his dreams, the very fact that he visits Hob in his dreams (hello common Destiel trope right there). They don't meet too many more times in the comics, but each time the tension is palpable. The meeting in the Kindly Ones is heartbreaking, because you can tell desperately how much they need each other at that moment, but they are both too distracted or consumed by grief and depression to truly reach out to one another. The comics never reveal why Dream sought Hob out at that point, but given everything happening to him at the time, its not hard to assume that Dream was seeking comfort from his friend - the only person he could really turn to for comfort at that point.

Then we have Hob's dream. One of the final stories in The Sandman original comic run. After everything else has happened, after the climax and all that takes place, after the smoke has cleared and you think everyone else has moved on and you are certain the ending is set in stone, you get to Hob's dream, and your mind is once again blown, and suddenly you have a thousand more questions. So many fans hopes and dreams rely on Hob's dream right now I can't even begin to express how important that particular comic issue is to me.

It's all about the potential. There is so much potential.

Plus the 30 minute scene we got was loaded full of subtext, romantic tropes, and queer coding. I dunno if you picked up on it, but I have an extremely long meta essay still in the works that goes through everything that 30 minute sequence gives us in terms of shipping fodder (I really need to finish that). Its not just the romantic tropes, the break up and make up, its the acting choices, the eye fucking, the freaking song choices in 1989 holy fuck could they be more on the nose.

Also, consider this thought experiment: Crowley and Aziraphale in Good Omens are a hugely popular ship, where their creator Neil Gaiman has confirmed that theirs is a love story. Whatever else you may believe about Crowley and Aziraphale, their story is a love story. Creator confirmed love story.

Now, Crowley and Aziraphale are the leads of Good Omens and interact throughout the entire 6 episode show. But consider the first half of episode 3. Imagine a version of Good Omens where Crowley and Aziraphale don't really interact outside of that 30 minute opening sequence. That the story was much more focused on the Them, the Horsemen, and the other characters. Imagine then seeing that 30 minute sequence which shows Crowley and Aziraphale slowly warming to each other and becoming friends over the centuries, shows them getting to know each other, do each other favours, come to each others defence, get into fights and break up with each other, only to make up later...

Would you still ship them? Even if that 30 minute sequence was all you got? I guarantee if I asked any Ineffable Husbands fan that question they would say yes. Because THAT 30 minute sequence is what solidifies the importance of their relationship and its what MAKES IT a love story.

Guess where Neil Gaiman got the idea for that 30 minute sequence in Good Omens from? Ah Neil, plagiarising his own work all these years later!

If Neil Gaiman thought that Men of Good Fortune would work well for a canonical love story in Good Omens, I wonder what he was thinking when he then adapted Men of Good Fortune for television?

THE POTENTIAL.

I ship Dreamling that hard because it has more potential than any other ship I have come across. It has 6 centuries and all the future of the Sandman show for me to explore, to tweak, to play with. Besides they just suit each other ya know? Like Dream is notoriously bad at relationships, but Hob is literally perfect for him. The more my mind dwells on how perfect Hob is for Dream the more I want to scream about it. Give the sad wet cat man a boyfriend who is literally his opposite in every way. Dream is a character looking for a reason to keep living, and Hob is a character who refuses to die. Dream is a pessimist, Hob is an optimist. Dream is afraid of change, Hob literally changes constantly with the times. Dream is desperate for love and someone to stay by his side, Hob just wants to love someone he doesn't have to eventually leave.

Let them meet in the middle.

[genshinluvr]

Your Highness

Pairings: Various Genshin Men x Isekai'd!Reader/Royal!Reader

Summary: Imagine your retainer (Heizou) waking you up from your slumber, telling you to get up and get ready for the day before high-profiled visitors arrive to the kingdom. Who are these high-profiled visitors, you may ask? Oh, they're the people your parents have chosen for you to get married to! Speaking of getting married, you're unaware of the arranged marriage situation until Heizou woke you up from your slumber. So, Your Highness, who are you going to pick to be your future husband?

Note: Finally! The last AU that has been stuck on my mind for ages is finally here! Next fic, we will be back in the usual Isekai'd!reader world! Kind of. Each man in this Royal AU does have titles. Some of these titles aren't princes, emperors, or crown princes. There are retainers, military leaders, bodyguards, etc. I tried to make it accurate, but Wikipedia and Google did not help me much with my attempt at research. The title gave me the most complications out of the entire thing. I also typed the list out in my Discord server so I wouldn't have to list it all out on here. To those who are new readers or not, please remember that I don't post anywhere else but on Tumblr (Genshinluvr) and on AO3 (Aaliah_exo).

Warnings: None that I know of 🤔 uh, mentions of an arranged marriage? Idk if that would count as a warning

Word Count: 8.7k

“Your Highness, you need to wake up.”

You hear someone say as they try to wake you up from your slumber. You groan and snuggle further into your pillows and blankets, feeling too comfortable to wake up. The person lets out a sigh of frustration and flicks you on your forehead, causing you to jolt and groan in pain. You open your eyes and see Heizou peering down at you.

You glare at him and bury your face into your pillow. “Go away, Heizou. Can’t you see I’m trying to sleep?” You mumble.

Heizou chuckles and pokes you in the ribs, making you jump and smack his hand away from you. “Come on, sleepy head! You need to get up! Your parents want you to be up and ready before the Princes, Crown Prince, and Emperor arrive,” Heizou sighs. 

Your eyes snap open, and you sit up on your bed and look at Heizou with wide eyes. You rub the sleep from your eyes and look at Heizou with disbelief. “Why are they visiting the kingdom?” You whisper.

Heizou purses his lips for a moment. “Did your parents not inform you that you will be choosing who you will be betrothed to?” Heizou asks, propping his hands on his hips.

You shake your head, mouth agape. Heizou sighs and hunches over, unsure of what to say. You look over at the clock on the wall before scrambling to get off your bed. As you’re running to the bathroom to take a shower and get ready for the day (and unexpected meeting with other royals from other nations), you hear Heizou bark orders to the maids. 

The sudden news of royals from different regions stopping by to visit is news to you. Your parents did not inform you of the event, nor did they mention it to you! You are not only angry, but you’re also upset that your parents give you little to no time to prepare for the visitation. 

After your shower, you’re pulled out of the bathroom, and the maids dress you in your daily attire. While you wear the most exquisite clothing with expensive materials, you’re forced to wear the most uncomfortable clothing of all: corsets. 

“Your Highness, did you not sleep well last night?” Tsu asks, yanking on the corset strings, making you gasp out in pain.

You shake your head. “Unfortunately, I did not get an adequate amount of sleep, Tsu.”

“Your Highness! You know how strict your parents are when it comes to your bedtime!” Mingxi scolds you, tutting and pulling the corset strings with Tsu. 

You groan and take a deep breath. Tsu and Mingxi tie the corset strings before assisting you with putting other clothing on you. You have no idea why they make you wear so many layers of clothing. Quite frankly, you wish that corsets were outdated so you wouldn’t be forced to wear something that could potentially snap your ribcage. 

“How does one get an adequate amount of sleep when the King and Queen are pestering you to do well in your tasks?” You mutter, adjusting the clothes on your person. 

You, Tsu, and Mingxi hear a knock at the door. Tsu walks to the door while you gaze into the mirror and brush your hair with a cor lapis-encrusted comb. You look like you’re sleep deprived and are in desperate need of sleep.

“Hans! What are you doing here?” Tsu asks, crossing her arms over her chest and narrowing her eyes at the blond man in front of her.

Hans clears his throat. “Heizou has informed me to make sure that Their Highness is preparing for the meeting. The visitors are almost here,” Hans says.

“Oh? I thought Heizou would be the one that’s taking me to where the visitors will be,” you mutter, letting Mingxi apply light makeup on your face to cover the bags underneath your eyes.

Dear archons, you look like death. You don’t think there’s enough makeup in Teyvat to hide the dark circles underneath your eyes. You’re tempted to rub your eyes, but Mingxi lightly slaps your hands away from your face and gives you a scolding look through the mirror.

“Sorry,” you mouthed to Mingxi, letting your hands fall to your sides.

Hans nods his head. “Heizou will be taking you there, but he is currently tending to other duties as of now. Heizou wants me to make sure you’re getting ready and not sleeping in,” said Hans.

“The guests aren’t here yet, are they?” You ask anxiously.

Hans shakes his head. “They have yet to arrive, Your Highness. Since it is still early in the morning, you will be having breakfast with your guests,” Hans informs you.

You press your lips into a thin line and slowly nod your head. “Understood. Thank you for informing me,” you said, a small smile appearing on your face.

Hans gives you a brief smile and bows to you before turning to leave. Tsu closes the door after Hans leaves and sighs, walking over to you and Mingxi. After Mingxi finishes applying makeup on your face, Tsu reaches for the perfume on the vanity and sprays the fragrance on your pulse points.

“So, do you have in mind who you want to choose from the bachelors?” Tsu asks casually.

You blink at Tsu and shake your head slowly. “Tsu, this is the first time I hear about an arranged marriage my parents put together. I don’t know who they have chosen or invited to come and visit,” you sigh in defeat. 

Mingxi dusts her hands off and props her hand on her hips while leaning on the vanity with her right arm. “My word of advice to you is to reject all of them and choose Heizou.” 

“Heizou?” You ask; Mingxi nods her head. “My retainer?” You raise your eyebrows at her.

“Oh, come on! He’s cute! And it’s clear that he has feelings for you, Your Highness!” Mingxi exclaims, shaking you lightly by your biceps.

Tsu swats at Mingxi. “Quit it, you! You’re going to make [Y/N]’s clothes crease!” Tsu hisses.

Mingxi releases your biceps and quickly apologizes to you, rubbing her arm with a sheepish look on her face. You snort and shake your head. Tsu and Mingxi have been by your side since you were pre-teens; while they work for you as your maids, they’re also your friends. People aren’t allowed to casually call you by your name, only by your title. But with Tsu and Mingxi, they’re an exception; only they can’t call you by your name in front of your parents, other royals, and servants at the castle. 

“Let’s put your shoes on, and I think we should be finished!” Mingxi claps her hands.

After a few minutes of struggling to put your shoes on (the corset was making it hard for you to bend down to put your shoes on), you hear a knock coming from the door. Instead of Tsu and Mingxi being the ones to open the door, you walk to the door, grab the door handle and crack the door open.

“Are you done getting dressed, Your Highness?” Heizou asks, peeking through the crack.

You smile and nod. “Yes, yes I am, Heizou!” You reply.

“Great! Now that you’re ready let me assist you to the foyer. The…. men… have arrived,” Heizou hesitates, giving you a stiff smile. 

You look at Heizou worriedly. “You don’t look too excited,” you pointed out.

“That’s because he’s not! And quite frankly, I’m not excited either, Your Highness,” Itto says, strutting up to you and Heizou with his hands crossed over his chest. 

You raise your eyebrows with surprise. “Oh? And why is that? Pray tell,” you said.

Itto clears his throat. “You see, Your Highness, your parents are setting you up with a bunch of men to get to know each other for who knows how long, and you have to marry one of them by the end of a certain time,” Itto explains. 

You did a double-take. “Wait, are you implying that these men will be staying at the castle for a while?” You ask.

“That is correct! They’re going to be staying for a while, so you can bond with them and see which man is husband material,” said Itto. 

“Hypothetically, what happens if I don’t pick anyone out of the men that my parents have chosen for me?” You ask.

Itto hisses softly. “Ooh, that, I do not have the answers to! You’re going to have to talk to your parents about that, Your Highness,” Itto says.

“Well, at least I was able to get a small explanation,” you mutter. “Heizou, you may now take me to the foyer to meet my future husbands,” you said.

Heizou stretches his arm out for you to take, you link your right arm around his left arm, and the two of you begin walking toward the foyer of the castle, with Itto walking behind you two. Not only were you unaware of your own arranged marriage, but you’re also unaware that the men that are visiting your home will be staying for who knows how long. Great! 

“I’m hoping my parents didn’t pick out people close to their age,” you mutter. 

Heizou and Itto don’t respond to your comment. You scan your surroundings nervously as you walk down the long staircase of the castle. The heel of your shoes makes a click-clacking noise on the white tile floors with each step you take, the sound echoing through the hallways of the castle. You can’t help but internally wince at the sound of your shoes click-clacking; it’s almost like you have a bell collar on that will notify people that you’re nearby. 

The closer you, Itto, and Heizou got to the foyer, the more nervous you became. You don’t do well when it comes to meeting new people. It wasn’t because you’re asocial; it was because you fear that you’re going to mess up or make a fool out of yourself in front of people that you don’t know. Heck, other than new people, you’re afraid of messing up in front of your parents! 

Upon entering the large foyer of the castle, you see a long line of men standing in front of your parents. Your father stands tall and regal, his head held high as he makes a speech to the large group of men in front of him and your mother. You can feel power oozing from your father from a distance. Then there’s your mother, standing beside your father. While she looks dainty compared to your father, she holds almost as much power as your father. Her arm is looped around your father’s arm, gazing at the men in front of her with sheer intensity. 

One of the guards steps up to your parents, bowing to them. 

“Your Majesties, your child has arrived,” said the guard. 

Your parents and the guests all turn to look in your, Heizou, and Itto’s direction. You feel your face turn hot when all eyes are focused on you the more you walk into the foyer with your retainer and bodyguard at your side. 

You unlink your arm around Heizou and clasp your hands before bowing to your parents. “Mother, father. I have arrived,” you give them a small smile, “I hope I didn’t keep you all waiting for too long,” you say, subconsciously tucking your hair behind your ear.

“You didn’t keep us waiting, sweetheart. The guest arrived not too long ago, and we were talking to them about what will be happening for the next few days, perhaps weeks,” your mother said.

You look at her, feigning surprise. “Oh? May I get an explanation as well? I did not know we would be having guests today until Heizou woke me up from my slumber,” you said.

You cross your arms over your chest as if you’re trying to hide from everyone in the room. The number of eyes focusing on you makes you feel out of place. Almost naked, in a way. Your father gives you a look. You uncross your arms and give them a fake smile. Your father puts a heavy hand on your shoulders and turns you so you can face the large group of men in front of you.

“Gentlemen, meet my child, [Y/N],” Your father introduces you to the men in front of you with a smile on his face.

Annoyed, you mutter, “I’m not a child, father.”

Your father ignores your comment and continues to sing his praise. You’re intelligent, graduated top at the private university you once attended, mastered many languages and instruments, you’re skilled in many arts, and you’re also a fantastic cook. Speaking of cooking, since you’re a royal, learning to bake and cook wasn’t necessary for you. But you pressed on and begged your parents to let you learn to cook and bake because it’s a basic (yet beneficial) skill. And because you also want to sneak into the kitchen to bake yourself a cookie at two in the morning while everyone is asleep. 

“Now, [Y/N], my sweet child,” you shoot your father a look, “I would introduce these men to you, but there are too many for me to do so. If I were to introduce each man in this room, it would be lunch by the time I finish,” your father lets out a hearty laugh. 

The men in the room chuckle after hearing your father’s explanation. 

“I will let you and these handsome gentlemen converse over breakfast. After breakfast, you and these men can continue getting to know one another,” said your father.

“You’re not going to join us?” You ask, looking up at your father quizzically.

Your father and mother shake their heads. 

“We will be joining you all for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. But afterward, we will give you and these lovely men some space to get to know one another! Of course, Heizou and Itto will also be keeping you all company,” your mother says, looking over at Heizou and Itto with a smile. 

You nod. “Understood.”

The head butler of the castle announces that breakfast is ready. The butler leads everyone to the dining room. Heizou and Itto walk in front of you, their eyes focusing ahead of them. You, Itto, and Heizou walk in front of the large group of men while your parents walk beside you. Your parents are seated beside each other, whereas you’re sitting at the farthest end of the dining table.

On the right side of the table, the men from the three nations (Liyue, Inazuma, Sumeru) sit down in their seats while the men from the other three regions (Mondstadt, Snezhnaya, and Khaenri'ah) sit on the left side of the table. Heizou pulls the chair out for you to sit. You sit on the chair, and Heizou pushes the chair in. The servants bring the food out and place them in front of each person. Your stomach grumbles when you catch a whiff of the food in front of you.

Everyone began eating in silence; the sound of forks and knives scraping against the fine china filled the silence. You turn to look at Heizou and Itto.

“Have you two eaten today?” You ask.

Heizou and Itto nod, not saying a single word. You blink at the two before slowly turning back to your food, unsure why they didn’t reply to your question. Heizou looks up and notices a few lingering stares from the visitors. Some are curious stares, and others are looks of interest. Heizou locks his eyes with one of the princes and gives him a fake smile.

“Which one of you men wants to start introducing yourselves? If you all want, I can reintroduce myself?” You cock your head to the side.

“I’ll go first if you don’t mind, Your Highness,” the man with an eyepatch speaks up, giving you a gentle smile.

You smile back and nod. “Please, be my guest.”

And thus, the dark blue-haired man with an eyepatch starts to introduce himself to you. One by one, each man introduces himself to you during breakfast while your parents sit by and watch the interaction in front of them, observing how you all interact. 

“You look lovely today, Your Highness,” the Crown Prince of Snezhnaya says, sending a wink in your direction.

You feel yourself blush at the sudden comment. “Thank you, Prince Ajax. You’re looking handsome yourself,” you reply shyly.

The Snezhnayan Crown Prince leans back in his seat with a victorious smile on his face, turning to look at the men with a smug look. The Crown Prince of Mondstadt gives Ajax a subtle glare before turning to look at you, looking at you curiously.

“Your Highness, what is your relationship with those two men behind you? If you don’t mind me asking?” Diluc says.

You look over to your left and right shoulders. “Heizou is my retainer,” you gestured to the maroon-haired man to your right, “And Itto is my bodyguard! His job is to be at my side at all times. You all will be seeing these two with me everywhere I go,” you said. 

“Everywhere you go?” Prince Aether asks, looking at you curiously.

You clear your throat and reach for your cup of water. “Almost everywhere I go. Heizou is at my side more than Itto. Itto will accompany Heizou and me when guests are visiting, if there’s an event, whenever I leave the castle, you get the gist,” you explain. 

You take a sip of your drink, resting your back against the chair. So far, the interaction with each of the men isn’t too awkward like how you would have imagined, thankfully. The thing that you’re nervous about the most would be the event that happens after breakfast. Each man has their charm; they are incredibly sweet and attentive. The light banter between them is not only entertaining, but it’s also heartwarming, in a way.

While you’re unfamiliar with the political affairs between your region and their region, seeing powerful men from different regions bonding is something you didn’t think you would ever witness in person. Seeing them laugh, converse with each other, share a toast with one another, and joke with each other makes the atmosphere at the castle lively. 

“Your Highness?” Dainsleif calls your name (title?), pulling you out of your thoughts.

You blink and turn to look at the blond man. “Yes, Dainsleif?” You ask, finishing your last bite of breakfast.

“We have been calling your name for a minute now. What’s on your mind? You seem distracted,” Lord Kazuha says, looking at you worriedly.

You give Lord Kazuha a brief smile and shake your head. “Apologies, gentlemen. I did not get enough sleep last night, and I guess I was staring off into space,” you reply, clasping your hands on your lap. 

The Chief Alchemist strokes his chin. “You do need to get plenty of rest, Your Highness. It’s unhealthy for the human body not to get an adequate amount of sleep,” said Albedo. 

“We do not know what you do in your day-to-day life, but we don’t want your duties to get in the way of you getting plenty of sleep at night,” Doctor Baizhu says, wiping his lips on the silk cloth napkin.

Venti props his head in the palm of his hands, giving you a sweet smile. “If you would like, I can play you a song or two before you go to bed~! What do you say, Your Highness?” Prince Venti asks, gazing at you with his aqua-green eyes. 

You press your lips into a thin line, contemplating whether you should take up on Prince Venti’s offer or not. While you don’t mind having someone serenade you to sleep, you don’t want the other men to misinterpret Prince Venti’s offer.

“I don’t think it’s appropriate to be going into someone else’s bedroom to serenade them before they go to bed,” Emperor Zhongli says, giving Prince Venti a blank stare. 

Thoma chuckles and nudges Emperor Ayato beside him. “Do you think the Emperor of Liyue is jealous that Prince Venti offered to serenade Their Highness before they go to bed?” Thoma whispers to the Inazuman Emperor.

Emperor Ayato chuckles. “Can you blame him? He and I share the same sentiment about Prince Venti’s offering,” Emperor Ayato replies nonchalantly.

After contemplating, you decide not to take up on Prince Venti’s offer, much to his disappointment. Your declining Prince Venti’s offer of him singing you to sleep has nothing to do with a specific issue (for example, you not liking Prince Venti). You declined his offer because you’re not sure if your parents would approve of a stranger going into your room and singing you to sleep. Plus, you’ve had a fair share of random men trying to sneak into your bedroom while you slept and then trying to assassinate you.

“Is there a reason why you declined Prince Venti’s offer? I’m surprised a musically talented prince would get turned down,” Tighnari says, gazing at you curiously.

You purse your lips, unsure whether you should tell them of the incident or not. You look at your parents from across the table, waiting for them to answer for you. You didn’t get a response back. All your mother and father did was stare back at you while casually finishing their breakfast. You stare at them blankly before turning to the men, giving them a sheepish smile, subconsciously rubbing the back of your neck.

“How do I explain this without making it a huge deal?” You mutter, pressing your lips into a thin line.

Crown Prince Al Haitham cocks an eyebrow at your question. “Oh? Did you happen to sneak a boy into your bedroom while your parents were asleep?” Crown Prince Al Haitham asks, crossing his arms over his chest.

Your eyes widen, and you shake your head rapidly. “No, no, no! It’s not like that!” You squeak, your face turning hot. “Why would someone from the royal family get into that kind of situation? Do you know how much trouble I would get into with my parents and the public?” You huff, looking away from the guests, your face hot. 

Heizou and Itto stare at the men blankly, not saying a word. How dare they (mainly Crown Prince Al Haitham) assume you were sneaking boys into your bedroom late at night while everyone in the castle was asleep? Not only are there top-notch security at the castle, but you would never get into a scandalous situation because you know better. And Heizou and Itto ensure that you don’t sneak boys into your room because those boys would have to get through Itto and Heizou first. 

You sigh and grab the cup of water in front of you, taking slow sips of water. You only know Crown Prince Al Haitham for less than two hours. Yet, he has already left a sour taste in your mouth by assuming you are sneaking boys into your bedroom while everyone is asleep. 

“I don’t allow anyone into my bedroom except for the maids, Itto, Heizou, and my parents. There are a few instances where people will try to sneak into my bedroom to,” you trail off, placing the cup down on the table, “try to assassinate me. It got to the point where I couldn’t sleep alone in my room for months. Guards will stand outside of my bedroom door, outside of my bedroom window, to catch the culprits.” You said.

Prince Kaveh huffs, turning to look at Crown Prince Al Haitham, his eyes narrowing. “Way to be a total jackass to Their Highness, Crown Prince,” Prince Kaveh says sarcastically.

You laugh nervously and shake your head. “No, no, it’s fine, Prince Kaveh. Crown Prince Al Haitham didn’t know, so let’s not start anything at breakfast when we all barely know each other,” you said. 

“So, you’re implying that we can start trouble with each other when we’re more familiar with one another?” Cyno teases, the corner of his lips curling up.

A loud huff of breath interrupts the conversation. You turn to see the Prime Minister sitting there, his arms over his chest, looking at the other gentlemen in the room with a disapproving look on his face.

“Almost all of you have juvenile behavior. Accusing Their Highness of having late-night affairs while everyone is asleep?” Prime Minister Pierro asks, scoffing.

Pantalone leans back in his seat and chuckles softly. “You only knew Their Highness for less than two hours, and you’re already making a fool out of yourself, Crown Prince Al Haitham,” Pantalone says, poking the inside of his cheek with his tongue. 

The Chief Physician snorts. “Way to ruin your chances of Their Highness picking you to be betrothed to,” Dottore chuckles. 

“As if Their Highness will pick them in the first place,” The Captain snorts, flicking his jet-black hair over his shoulders. 

The Shogun rolls his eyes and scoffs loudly, crossing his right leg over his left. “You four fools think you have the chance to be with Their Highness? Ha! Please, that’s comical,” Scaramouche laughs sarcastically. 

You turn to look at Heizou and Itto. “I thought my parents invited royals. Did my parents invite high-profiled people in general?” You whisper.

Heizou and Itto shrug their shoulders simultaneously. You sit back in your seat and watch how the men interact with each other. There’s tension between them, and you’re hoping that Crown Prince Al Haitham’s comment won’t be the reason why there will be war among all nations. You clear your throat to grab their attention.

“If you’re all finished eating, then we can all go to the gardens outside the castle to get to know each other. More so, this is a way for me to get to know you all individually without having to speak over anyone. Perhaps this can be a way for all of you to strengthen the bonds between your nations,” You said, getting up from your seat. 

General Gorou’s head perks up, and he smiles at you brightly. “That sounds like a fantastic idea, Your Highness! Plus, you can also give us a tour of the castle while we’re at it,” General Gorou says.

“A castle tour? Is this your first time visiting the kingdom?” You ask, looking at everyone owlishly.

General Xiao shakes his head. “We have visited the kingdom before, but we have never gone anywhere that isn’t the foyer, training grounds, ballroom, and throne room,” General Xiao explains. 

“Oh! Well, if that’s the case, then I will be delighted to give you all a castle tour if it’s okay with my parents?” You look over at your parents, waiting for them to give you approval. 

Your mother and father nod their heads, giving you a small smile. You got up from your seat and gestured for the men to follow you out of the dining room. Since you’ll be giving the visitors a tour of the enormous castle, Heizou and Itto stick by your side, giving the men stern looks.

“If you think we’re going to do something sketchy to Their Highness, both of you are wrong,” General Xiao says, glaring at Heizou and Itto. 

Emperor Zhongli chuckles and places his hand on General Xiao’s shoulders. “General Xiao, please try to get along with Their Highness’ bodyguard and retainer. They’re doing their duty to protect Their Highness,” Emperor Zhongli says. 

General Xiao grits his teeth, lets out a sharp sigh and complies while bowing to his Emperor. “Understood, Emperor Zhongli,” General Xiao mutters.

The Chief Physician smirks, crossing his arms over his chest. “Every ruler needs to keep their pets on leashes, or else they’ll bite those around them,” Dottore says.

Archons, you genuinely hope that this doesn’t result in some kind of war. You, Itto, and Heizou shake your heads and continue walking ahead of the men behind you three. The tour of the kingdom has barely started, and yet the men are already starting trouble with one another. You’re not sure how much longer these men can stay in the same room as each other without wanting to rip each other’s heads off or insult one another.

“I hope the head butler of the castle has shown you all your rooms,” you said, turning to look at the men behind you.

The Captain, Capitano, nods his head. “Yes, the head butler has shown us where we all will be staying for the time being prior to your arrival,”

You nudge Heizou lightly. “When you and Itto went to get me, I thought the guests had just arrived at the castle,” you mutter.

“Your retainer must have seen us after we have seen our rooms. The servants took our luggage to our rooms after the head butler showed us where the rooms are,” Prime Minster Pierro interjects. 

“I see,” you murmur.

The tour around the castle took a bit of time because of the size of the castle. It wasn’t a boring tour, surprisingly. Some men would crack jokes here and there to lighten the mood. Some of them even asked you about your childhood to get to know you, their future significant other, if you pick them, better. 

And now here you are, sitting on the concrete bench while the men are scattered around, conversing with each other and settling into the castle. Itto and Heizou insist on staying by your side at all times, but you chide them and order them to go and have fun and socialize with the visitors. 

“Your Highness, why are you here all alone?”

You look up to see Prince Kaeya, Prime Minister Pierro, and Dainsleif, the Captain of the Royal Guard, walking over to you. You stand up, briefly bow to the three men in front of you, and make sure your clothes look presentable. You clear your throat and give them a smile.

“Oh, no need to worry about me. Some alone time is nice once in a while,” you said.

“Especially after having to give almost thirty people a tour around the castle and interact with so many people.” Captain Dainsleif says, nodding. 

A bright smile appears on your face. “Yes, exactly! I do hope that you three are enjoying yourselves at the castle. If you need anything, do let me or any of the servants know,” you said.

Captain Dainsleif, Prime Minister Pierro, and Prince Kaeya nod, giving you a smile as they watch you walk to the next group of men who called you over. 

“We notice that you were alone, and we want you to hang out with us for a little bit before someone else drags you away,” Prince Venti jokes, patting the seat beside him. 

You see Heizou standing beside Prince Aether, a faint smile on Heizou’s face. “Heizou, it’s good to see that you made friends!” You said, approaching the two men.

“Huh? Did Heizou not want to hang out with the rest of us?” Prince Aether asks, looking at you curiously.

You chuckle. “Heizou and Itto were hesitant to leave my side, but I insisted they hang out and socialize with all of you,” you explain.

“As your retainer and bodyguard, I can see why they are hesitant to leave your side. Danger lurks in every corner, and as a royal, the chances of being in danger are higher than a normal civilian,” Lord Kazuha explains. 

The Shogun points over at General Xiao with his thumb. “General Xiao is the same as Heizou. He was also reluctant to leave Emperor Zhongli’s side, and it took some convincing to get him to join our group,” said Scaramouche, smirking over at the flustered Liyuen General. 

You look at General Xiao and give him a polite smile. “I hope you all get along. I don’t know how long you all will be here, so you might as well make yourself at home and make some friends!” You said.

General Xiao exhales through his nose, nods, and bows to you. “Yes, Your Highness,” said Xiao.

“Gentlemen, as much as I would love to stick around longer, I have to check up on the others to see how they’re adjusting to their stay,” you said.

As you turn to walk away, you’re tackled to the ground. You let out a loud shriek, and a wheeze accompanies it when your back meets the grass. 

“Your Highness!” Heizou gasps, running over to your side. 

“Crown Prince Ajax, why did you tackle them!?” Emperor Ayato hisses, storming over to where you and Crown Prince Ajax lay.

Crown Prince Ajax cages you between his body and the ground, propping himself up on his hands and looking down at you worriedly. 

Crown Prince Ajax swallows the lump in his throat. “Are you okay, Your Highness?” the Crown Prince of Snezhnaya asks, his eyes scanning your face for a reaction. 

Instead of lashing out at the Snezhnayan Crown Prince, you lightly tap him and attempt to push him off you. You turn on your side and slowly sit up. You’re still struggling to fill your lungs with air while taking deep gulps, your hand pressing against your chest.

“You knocked the wind out of me,” you wheeze, grabbing onto Heizou’s arms as he helps you get up from the ground.

The Crown Prince of Mondstadt stomps over to the Snezhnayan royal and yanks him up from the ground by the collar. “Why did you tackle them, you Snezhnayan scum?!” Diluc growls.

Pantalone, a notable Treasurer, grabs Diluc by the shoulders and pulls him off the Snezhnayan Crown Prince. “It’s best not to start problems, Crown Prince of Mondstadt. Do you want to cause tension between Mondstadt and Snezhnaya?” The Treasurer raises his eyebrows at the redheaded Crown Prince.

The Crown Prince of Mondstadt glares at Pantalone and smacks Pantalone’s hand off his shoulders. Albedo and Baizhu rush to your side; Baizhu makes sure you’re physically okay while Albedo asks you many questions to see if there’s any damage.

“We should take you to the infirmary,” The green-haired Physician says, dusting grass off your clothes. 

You shake your head. “I’m fine. I’m just out of breath,” you said. You turn to look at the ginger-haired Snezhnayan man. “Is there a reason why you tackled me to the ground without warning?” You ask.

“Your pupils are dilated. We need to get you checked out to ensure you didn’t hit your head when you fell,” Albedo says gently. 

General Gorou runs up to the crowd surrounding you and holds up an arrow. “This was flying toward your direction, and Crown Prince Ajax knew that you wouldn’t be able to dodge it, so he took it into his own hands and tackled you to the ground before the arrow could hit you,” General Gorou explains, tossing the arrow to the ground in front of you. 

“Where did that arrow come from?” Crown Prince Al Haitham mutters, turning to survey his surroundings. 

“Your Highness,” General Cyno calls out to you, walking up to where you stand. “Is there a training ground nearby?” General Gorou asks, stopping in front of you.

You nod and point to the large cement wall. “Behind that wall is a training ground,” you answer. 

“Maybe the arrow that flew in Their Highness’ direction came from the training ground. I don’t think it’s an assassination attempt. If so, then the assassin would’ve been caught almost immediately,” Thoma says, standing beside the Inazuman Emperor. 

You snort. “Thoma, I don’t know if I have informed you all of this already, but the person that has tried to assassinate me is still out there,” you rub your aching back. “Now that I think about it, I should get checked out. I’m starting to feel a bit sore,” you said.

“We’ll take you to the infirmary to get you checked out. I’m sure I brought some medicines and remedies just in case anything happens,” Tighnari says, holding his hand out for you to take. 

Prince Kaveh sighs and rubs his temples. “Their Highness’ parents are going to kill us all if anything happens to them,” Prince Kaveh mutters.

Upon your arrival at the castle's infirmary, you’re swarmed by doctors and nurses. While you try to tell them that you weren’t horribly injured, seeing the grass stains on your clothes and little tears on the expensive fabric sends them into a frenzy. 

“Please back up and give Their Highness some space. We don’t want to overwhelm them,” Tighnari instructs, shooing people away from you as you walk to the chair and sit down.

As the Physician to the royal family (your family), Baizhu walks up to you and begins to conduct basic examinations. 

Other than a scratch, getting grass stains on your clothes, and a bruised pride, you’re in decent condition. There aren’t any life-threatening injuries or injuries in that case. To make it short: you’re fine. You’re humiliated that Crown Prince Ajax tackled you in front of people. Handsome people, him included. After Heizou has taken you to your room to change your clothes, you collapse on your bed and cover your face with your hands.

“This is so humiliating.” You groan, shutting your eyes and feeling the heat rise to your cheeks.

You hear the door to your bedroom open. You open your eyes, remove your hands from your eyes and see Tsu and Mingxi enter your bedroom with new clothes in their hands. Mingxi gestures for you to go to the bathroom and wash up (you also have some grass in your hair) before they change you into your new clothes. Before going to the bathroom to quickly wash up, Mingxi and Tsu untied the corset for you and helped you out of the corset. 

You shut the bathroom door behind you and begin stripping your clothes off. The bath has already been prepared for you by Tsu herself. You sit in the bathtub, hugging your knees to your chest, replaying the most embarrassing moment in your life in your head. You close your eyes in misery and rest your chin on your knees. You’re not prepared for what’s to come for the next however many days the men will be staying.

The next day, you sit across the two Emperors of Inazuma and Liyue, having tea with the most powerful and influential men of their nation. Heizou pours the tea into the ceramic teacups, concentrating on pouring the right amount of tea for each person. You tuck your hair behind your ear and look out of the window, watching the other men chase each other around while conversing with each other. 

“It’s nice to see everyone getting along after one day of knowing each other,” you murmur, reaching for the steaming cup of tea. 

Emperor Ayato sips his tea elegantly after lightly blowing on it. “How are you feeling today, Your Highness?” Emperor Ayato asks, gazing at you with his gorgeous blue eyes.

You sip the tea and almost hiss at how hot it is despite blowing on the tea to cool it down. “I am doing well, Emperor Ayato! Thank you for asking,” you smile at the Inazuman man sitting across from you. 

“You didn’t stay up late, did you?” Emperor Zhongli asks suddenly, gazing at you intently with his amber eyes.

You clear your throat, place the teacup on the saucer and shake your head. “I did not, Emperor Zhongli! In fact, I believe my parents are allowing me to take a week off of my studies,” you said.

Right when you answer Zhongli, Hans peeks his head into the room. 

“Your Highness, your parents would like me to inform you that your piano lesson starts in an hour,” said Hans.

You sigh, slouching in your seat as you prop your head up in the palm of your right hand. “Understood, Hans,” you give him a small smile, watching him leave the room. You lean in your seat and close your eyes. “I stand corrected,” you said, snorting to yourself. 

“We can keep you company if you’d like. We would love to see you play the piano,” Emperor Ayato offers, a soft smile appearing on his face. 

You suddenly became shy. “I mean…. it’s up to you if you want to watch me play the piano. I don’t want to bore you all to sleep,” you murmur.

“I’m sure the others wouldn’t mind watching you play the piano. After all, as your future husband, we must indulge in your performances and activities,” Emperor Zhongli says nonchalantly, sipping his tea. 

Your cheeks grow warm when you hear Emperor Zhongli mention the word “husband.” “Well, you don’t have to if you don’t want to. You all have a choice,” you said shyly. 

“Don’t be ridiculous, Your Highness. We’ll be there to watch your performance,” The Shogun says, entering the room with his head held high.

You blink at Scaramouche. “Were you listening to the conversation the entire time?” You ask, turning to look at the window only to see that no one is outside. 

“We arrived not too long ago when Hans was informing you that your parents wanted you to go to your piano lesson today,” Crown Prince Diluc replies.

Prince Kaeya leans on the back of your chair, smiling down at you. “Your Highness, I didn’t know you play the piano,” Prince Kaeya says, lifting your left hand up and pressing a kiss on your knuckle.

“Their Highness’ father went on a tangent about them being able to play multiple instruments, Prince Kaeya,” Captain Dainsleif deadpans.

“Ah, but Captain Dainsleif! Their Highness’ father never specified the instruments!” Crown Prince Ajax interjects.

You look over at the clock and nearly jump out of your seat. You stand abruptly from your chair, almost spilling the teacup over during your haste. “Oh, dear archons. It’s almost time for my piano lesson. My piano teacher, Juliette, is going to have my head on the silver platter if I’m late,” you panic. 

“I’m sure your piano teacher will understand,” said the Chief Alchemist. 

You drag out a sigh and frown. “I didn’t even get to finish my tea,” you tell them sadly before walking out of the room with Heizou and Itto by your side while the men follow close behind you, Itto, and Heizou. 

“Is your piano teacher aware of us visiting?” Lord Kazuha asks, his red orbs scanning the portraits hanging on the castle’s wall. 

You shrug your shoulders. “That, I do not know. I’m hoping my parents informed her of your visitation. Still, because I was also unaware of the visitation, I’m assuming my parents didn’t inform her of it,” you answer. 

“Your parents didn’t inform you about our visitation and the arranged marriage situation?” General Gorou asks, looking at you in disbelief.

You shake your head. “They did not, unfortunately. I don’t know why they kept it hidden from me until the last minute when Heizou, my retainer, informed me about it yesterday morning,” you shrug your shoulders.

“Maybe they didn’t let you know about it until the last minute because they’re worried you would lash out at them or make a big deal about it?” Baizhu asks, looking at you curiously. 

You purse your lips and stroke your chin. Could Baizhu be correct? The topic of marriage never emerged in any of your and your parents’ conversations, so you’re not entirely sure why they kept it a secret until the last minute. 

Prince Venti skips up to you, squeezing between Itto and Heizou. “You know, Your Highness, since you’re musically talented in various instruments, what do you think about performing at a music festival with me in Mondstadt?” 

Your eyes light up. “A music festival, you say?” You gasp, stopping in your tracks. “I would love to join you, Prince Venti! Do you know when this music festival will be held?” You ask, twirling from side to side with giddiness.

“Are you talking about the Windblume Festival, or are you referring to the Iridescence Tour?” Prince Aether asks, butting in between you and Venti.

“I think he’s referring to both!” Thoma says. 

You and your esteemed visitors arrive at the entertainment room (which is the ballroom where your piano lessons are usually held). You all see Juliette standing beside the grand piano with her arms crossed over her chest, her foot tapping on the glossy floor impatiently. Juliette’s head snaps in your direction, her blonde eyebrows narrowing when she sees you enter the room.

“You’re late!” Juliette exclaims; Juliette has a heavy Fontaine accent.

You give Juliette a sympathetic smile as the blonde woman walks down the stairs and approaches you all. “Apologies, Juliette. I was informed at the last minute, again, by Hans about the lesson.” 

“I do not accept tardiness, Your Highness. I do not care if you’re a child of poverty or a part of the royal family,” Juliette hisses.

Al Haitham stares at Juliette blankly. “Your parents made a grave mistake of hiring someone like that to be your piano teacher, Your Highness,” Al Haitham mutters, narrowing his eyes at the blonde woman standing in front of you.

“Let’s not waste any more time, Your Highness! Chop, chop!” Juliette claps her hands, ushering you to the stage where the grand piano stands. 

“If anyone speaks to my spouse like that, I would fire them immediately,” Cyno states.

Kaveh scoffs and rolls his eyes. “I don’t understand how someone like Their Highness’ piano teacher can disrespect their student like that,” Kaveh grumbles.

Prime Minster Pierro clears his throat. “After Their Highness’ performance, I’ll have a word with Their Majesties about hiring a new piano teacher,” Prime Minister Pierro says gruffly. 

You sit in front of the piano and stare at the keys. The only people you have played the piano for are your parents, your piano teacher, Itto, and Heizou. Now that you have a reasonable-sized crowd watching you play the piano, you can’t help but feel nervous. Not wanting Juliette to chew you out in front of your guests (and future husband), you began playing the piano while gazing at the music sheets in front of you.

You were doing so well until your finger slipped, making you play a tune that wasn’t part of the music. Juliette’s eyes twitch, and she whips your hand with a riding crop, making you pull your hand to your chest with a loud yelp. 

“Your Highness!” Prince Aether gasps in horror, running up the stairs to the stage where you sat.

You rub the area where Juliette has whipped your hand, trying to soothe the searing pain on the back of your hand. Juliette always has a way of punishing you for messing up your performance, and whipping your hand with a riding crop is one of them.

“Out. Your presence isn’t needed here anymore,” The Capitan glowers at your piano teacher. Juliette glares at The Captain. “I do not take orders from anyone,” Juliette scowls, pointing her nose up in the air. 

You can see the steam coming out from his helmet as The Captain stomps over to Juliette, grabs her by the bicep, and drags her to the door of the ballroom.

“Your piano teacher doesn’t treat you like that all the time, does she?” Pantalone asks.

You chuckle weakly. “That’s how I learn how to play the piano fast. I didn’t want to upset Juliette or annoy her in any way by messing up,” You reply.

The Chief Physician frowns. “Your Highness, messing up is part of the learning process. You may be part of a royal family, but that doesn’t mean you’re not allowed to make a mistake or two,” Dottore says softly.

You wave Dottore’s comment off. “I understand that, but Juliette has been my piano teacher for years now. I’m used to her attitude and the way she teaches,” you said. “Although I shouldn’t be taking it lightly at all,” you grumble under your breath. 

“Your Highness, your performance is beautiful. Sure, you made a small mistake, but that doesn’t take away from the performance,” Lord Kazuha says.

You press your lips into a thin line and stand up from your seat, walking down the steps with Prince Aether walking beside you. “I was hoping to give you all a good performance, but I messed up, and you all witnessed Juliette being Juliette,” you sigh.

Prince Venti walks up and places a comforting hand on your shoulder. “Oh, don’t be so hard on yourself, Your Highness. Your performance is beautiful! Everyone in the room enjoyed your performance, and the only person that didn’t was your cruel piano teacher,” Prince Venti reassures you.

“The only thing that hurts is my pride. First, I get tackled by the Crown Prince of Snezhnaya. That bruised my ego. Second, I mess up my performance in front of all of you. Third, my piano teacher whips my hand with a riding crop in front of all of you,” you sigh.

“Are you upset because you have been getting hurt in the last two days of us being here?” General Gorou asks.

You slowly nod while thinking it over. “Yes. And because I’ve been humiliated way too many times in front of all of you. If it was in private, where none of you witnessed my humiliation, I would’ve been okay with it. But….” you trail off, pinching the bridge of your nose. “This is so embarrassing!” You whisper. 

“Your Highness, it’s okay to have some embarrassing moments. You’ll be seeing us humiliate ourselves during our visitation! Plus, when you marry one of us, we’ll witness many humiliating things. We might as well get used to it or try to,” Tighnari says, smiling at you. 

You give the men a weak smile. “Thank you for trying to comfort me. I don’t really know what else to say,” you rub your neck.

“Let’s go put some ice pack on your hand,” Crown Prince Al Haitham says, reaching for your hand and rubbing the area where Juliette whipped your hand.

You wince and pull your hand out from Crown Prince Al Haitham’s grasp. “Yes, we should ice my hand. It’s stinging,” you murmur, hugging your hand to your chest. 

You turn around and walk out of the ballroom with the men following behind. Heizou and Itto are fussing over your hand while you allow them to talk your ears off. You can’t help but notice that Juliette had whipped your hand harder than she did the previous times she had done it. 

Prince Kaveh nudges Crown Prince Al Haitham. “Were you trying to make a move on Their Highness in front of us?” Prince Kaveh whispers to Crown Prince Al Haitham.

“It seems like it’s a subtle way of showing Their Highness affection in front of every one of us,” General Cyno mutters.

“I think he only did that to make up to Their Highness after getting off on the wrong foot with them the day before,” Prince Kaeya interjects, the corner of his lips quirking up.

The Shogun snorts. “As if that would let him be ahead of us,” Scaramouche rolls his eyes. 

“Out of all of us, who do you think Their Highness is going to pick to be engaged and married to?” Crown Prince Diluc asks.

The question causes everyone to pause in their tracks, you included. The men turn to look at you, waiting for you to answer. You stare back at them, trying to process the question Crown Prince Diluc had asked. 

You laugh nervously. “Gentlemen, I only know you all for two days. I still need time to get to know all of you before making a decision,” you say. 

Captain Dainsleif crosses his arms over his chest. “Fair enough,” Captain Dainsleif says.

“I don’t want to dampen the mood, but let’s be real. Their Highness is going to choose me,” Crown Prince Ajax says, smirking.

Baizhu rolls his eyes. “Let’s not get ahead of ourselves now, shall we?”

You all continue on your walk to the castle’s infirmary. The men behind you, Itto and Heizou, continue to debate on who you’re going to choose to be married to. You’re not entirely sure who you’re going to pick out of everyone. Mainly because you don’t want to break their hearts and because you really do not know who you’re going to choose. So, Your Highness, who are you going to choose out of the twenty-five men around you?

Note: Next week's fic is going to be another idea of mine of the reader being isekai'd into Genshin Impact. Instead of it being like "Crash Landing in Teyvat," it's going to be different. The story will be in my usual format, and I hope you all like that one when it gets released. Other than next week's fic, I'm really hoping to be posting a mini-fic soon. I didn't get the chance to type it out this week because I have loads of assignments to do for my classes 🥹 anyway, other than that, for those who want to be on my new taglist, here is the link to the taglist [Genshinluvr Updated Taglist Form]! Please make sure that you allow people to mention you/tag you in posts, or else I won't be able to tag you in any future fanfics! And as usual, I ONLY post on my Tumblr (Genshinluvr) and my AO3 (Aaliah_exo)! Nowhere else except Tumblr and AO3!

Taglist for my Isekai'd!Reader one-shot series and my overall taglist: @alhaitham-scribe, @xyji, @kazuhasmuse, @chirikoheina, @yoru-trash, @kaoyamamegami, @kwelibeeery, @yumakj, @deartoru, @luminarymoonlight, @toobytub, @ins4nebish, @bokuto-kinnie, @honeybedo, @exhaustedcommunist, @jadedist, @mompt2, @living-my-best-life5, @chalksdreams. @rinswriting, @thelost-in-time, @mxn14, @ventisweetheart, @unwantedsleep, @kattythesimp, @hispasian-otaku, @Orah-s, @juuuuuj101010, @nxns3nse, @sickly-falling, @alteeeeyang, @wind1y, @wh0-ta0, @samarill, @testsubject0012, @irisxiel, @HistoryNerd™️, @kazuhaprnt, @lunarapple, @urlocalhothuman, @emilymikado, @vinnie-w, @n8mareee, (If your name has been crossed out, it means that your account did not show up when I try to tag your account. Please make sure to allow people to mention you and tag you in posts and make sure the spelling, symbols, and numbers are correct)

Read more of my works on my Masterlist | Maybe support me by tipping me on Ko-Fi or by reblogging my fanfics! ^^ I will also be posting exclusive fanfics on Ko-Fi as well very soon! I might post all of my stories on there too, but who knows. You can also tip me on Tumblr if you'd like as a way to show support! ^^

[codenjoyer8]

does anybody know this fic, usually i'm pretty good at finding lost fics but i cannot find it for the life of me. it was posted on tumblr but it is also on ao3 and the ao3 version is much longer iirc

its a simon riley x reader fic, might be tagged as dark!simon because theres an implication he kills someone (in the ao3 version i don't remember this being in the tumblr cut)

he and reader are childhood friends, reader is a civilian, it opens with reader ranting to simon about her dating life while hes sitting on her couch and he makes some kind of dry comment and the reader goes "youre so british" or something. also definitely paraphrasing but theyre having silly banter and reader is like "omg youre supposed to be supportive like my girl friends would be 🙄"

then later on reader gets with another character who i believe is named nick, and simon is jealous bc he wants the reader

(this i cant remember if its a part of this fic or im mixing things up but there is potentially a detail about the reader confessing to simon when they were younger but he rejected her? i remember it like this but it could be the other way around)

reader and 'nick' have a pretty decent relationship, i remember one scene where he picks reader up from work and she rants about her coworkers and hes like "wow (reader's coworker) sounds like a bitch" and they get back to the apartment. when they are making out and then are interrupted by simon texting them

toward the end simon makes his intentions a bit more obvious and nick stops texting the reader for a few weeks, i think theres a comment (that reader makes to simon, not nick) about how she will give nick another chance but cant be with him if hes insecure about her and simons relationship? i honestly dont even remember him being insecure cause he was pretty chill about simon so i think this was just a result of simons behind the scenes manipulations to make the reader think poorly of nick

nick never ends up contacting the reader again so she gets with simon, they are finally together and in his car driving to dinner where she texts nick to end things officially but after sending the message she hears a ping or a light flashes coming from the trunk, and she looks at simon like "wtf" and he doesnt say anything but the way he acts is implying he did kill nick and nick is in the trunk. the reader is in disbelief and starts feeling this slow shock/dread realising what he did

and thats the ending

if you know any fics that resemble this please send even if they aren't 100% matching with the details because i only read it like twice a few weeks ago and did not bookmark it 🥲🥲 tsym in advance if you have any leads!

[jakes3resin]

Can you tell us about your other fics if you already have an established plot?

I'd love to! So there's quite a number of them I won't lie. I tend to get inspired by the randomest things. These are all in various stages of plotted out and written.

A/B/O fic (technically turning into 3 fics) that follows Bucky & Buck through the war, described below.

Courting Arc (top of my list to finish writing) - Bucky POV as he is anonymously courted during his time in the states just before he gets sent over to England (there's a post I'm basing my writing around I'll link it in a moment) <- published

England Arc- a quick look into their lives as they run missions with A/B/O elements (this will be pretty short I think) mostly snippets of scenes from the show just now with Omega Bucky and Alpha Buck <- published

Stalag Arc - Omega Bucky and his awful time in Germany. Here is where we see what being an Omega in war is really like in my omegaverse. Bucky is the highest ranked Omega in the camp meaning he's technically 'in charge' of keeping those Omegas in line. He's tested by his heats, keeping his pack together, and finally by a German order that could tear Buck and Bucky apart. This is a big fic for me to prepare for, and I'm building up to it by writing the Courting Arc first <- next on deck

Biker Gale AU (my beloved, genuinely obsessed with this AU) - this was inspired by one of hogans-heroes AUs. So, Gale leads an outlaw-esque biker club, and Bucky used to be his right hand (and lover) except one day out of the blue he just disappeared. Gale does everything he can to find Bucky, but there's no trail to follow, no clues to put together, nothing. Fast forward about two years, Bucky arrives on Curt's doorstep holding a small baby with the brightest blue eyes and prettiest blonde curls and begs Curt to watch his baby for 5 days. 5 days later Bucky comes back in town bruised to all hell with the FBI on his tail with their own nefarious reasons for tracking Bucky down. Bucky has nowhere else to turn especially since when he comes back to Curt's he finds Gale holding his little baby. (This could be A/B/O I haven't decided, but it's definitely at least mpreg)

Amnesia fic - this is based off of a post I made about the effects of Bucky getting hit over the head like 3 times in the span of two days, its... somewhere (edit: here). But its about Bucky waking up with no memory of who he is just before he gets interrogated by the Germans and sent to Stalag Luft III where he meets a man that his heart rejoices at seeing but his mind doesn't recognize. Buck of course has to deal with the love of his life forgetting him.

Magic AU - Bucky is a Scamander and its now everyone's problem to deal with it. The tag to find all of my ramblings for it is magic au (not that Tumblr's tag system works), and @getinthefuckingjaeger just wrote the best ever fic of Bucky and Theseus so go read that.

I've also got a few paragraphs written of Foster Kid Bucky somewhere but that might never see the light of day (that's also from a hogans-heroes AU) where Bucky is a jaded teenager just trying to make it to 18 to get out of his shitty foster placement when in comes Buck whose mother finally divorced his dad, got custody of her kids, and moved to her hometown to escape. It's about a Bright Buck meeting a Jaded Bucky (a flip on their usual dynamics)

Blonde Bucky AU - I wrote a blurb on the Twin Cleven AU post, and the idea of Bucky bleaching his hair on a drunken night out with Curt and Bubbles has haunted me since <- published as well

There might be more? But these are the only ones I can remember off the top of my head right now that are plotted out beyond oh that'd be a good fic. I have a lot of time spent sitting and waiting right now, so I have the ability to write a multitude of fics. I'm happy to talk about any of these fics if you want to come into my inbox or my messages.

[harryscherrypie]

Confessions

CEO!Harry Styles x reader

summary - after a year of friendship, you found yourself having feelings for your quite older friend. Everything changes at his birthday party.

wordcount - 2,7k

warnings - age gap (not much, Harry is 32 and the reader is 25)

a/n - I fucking hate the tumblr tags, this is like the 7th time I'm posting this and it's not showing up in the tags.

This is something like a prequel/sequel to my other CEO harry fic, so for some clarity, please read that one as well, you can find it in my masterlist.

Enjoy, like, and please, please reblog, because it helps the blog very much.

---

Harry’s 32nd birthday was approaching quickly. You have been friends for about a year at this point and you were already sure you were falling in love with him. You thought it would take a bit longer to get over Adam, but Harry had made it very hard. You have thought very hard and long as to what gift you were going to gift him on his birthday but came up with nothing. What can you give to a person who could have anything with the snap of their finger? His seemingly never-ending wallet became quite a problem when picking a gift for him.

After consulting with his friends Mitch and Sarah, as well as your friend Rachel, you decided to dust off your knitting needles and knit him something. You thought about it the first time you started looking into gifts for him, but ultimately decided against it, when you realized that was also something he could get for himself. However, after the talk with your friends, you decided to do it after all. Their supporting smiles gave you enough courage to buy a few balls of chunky yarn, and long knitting needles, and start on Harry’s birthday present.

You remembered it clearly. It was almost 4 months ago when you were at his place for your end-of-a-week dinner. He had just gotten a new apartment because his old one had shitty neighbors. He had bought a new couch for his apartment and spent the whole night complaining about how cold he was, and how he couldn’t find a good-looking, but also cuddly blanket anywhere.

So when you were on your way to buy the yarn, you knew what you were making. You were going to knit him a blanket.

You have been a very creative person since you were a little kid, quickly mastering all of the crafts before you started high school. Embroidery, crochet, knitting, name whatever, and there is almost a 100% chance you had it mastered. Unfortunately, you had to put your hobbies to the back when you started college and didn’t have any time to make things.

The feeling of uncertainty when you pulled the yarn and needles out of the paper bag crashed over you. You haven’t held knitting needles in almost 5 years and suddenly became self-conscious. What if you didn’t make it in time? What if it looked like shit and Harry didn’t like it? These thoughts didn’t last long, because as soon as you started to knit, you fell into the all-familiar calm feeling as you watched your favorite show, and slowly knitted the blanket. Over the next few days, you fell in love with the craft for the second time. At first, you thought one blanket would be enough, but as soon as you finished it, you started on pillowcases for his couch and a large duvet for his king-sized bed.

And just like that, you knitted a full bedding set for his home in just under a week. You packed each of the pieces into separate boxes, tying them with bows of different colors, excited to finally have a present, but also to see his reaction.

The persistent scratches of Daisy’s claws against the door rang through the quiet hallway as you tried your best to slip into Harry’s apartment quietly. His cat was a very perceptive one, knowing you were behind the door before you even made the move to put your spare key into the lock. With your shoes in front of his main door, you walked into the apartment, making beeline for the kitchen and placing his birthday breakfast along with your coffee on the counter.

Daisy, who clearly just woke up, meowed lowly, indicating she was hungry. It was quite a bit past her meal time, but considering Harry came back from Paris just late last night, he was probably too tired to wake up to his cat’s incessant meowing. You put some of her food into her bowl and let her eat in peace, as you started to move Harry’s gifts from the hallway to the living room. You even got a little bouquet of flowers on your way to his place, which you placed in a vase you found in his kitchen.

“Good morning, pretty girl,” you heard Harry’s groggy voice behind you talking to his cat. He was crouched down in front of her, gently stroking her face. She meowed happily and keened into his touch, clearly trying to catch up on the missed affection from the last week.

“She missed you, always kept meowing at the door, and looked super disappointed when I came through the door, and not you,” you chuckled and moved towards them.

“Hi,” he grinned up at you. As Daisy plopped down on her back, playfully scratching at Harry’s hand, you sat down beside Harry, who also sat down on the floor.

“Was she good for you? I know that she gives trouble to people the first time,”

“Don’t worry, she was sweet, I also slept on your couch one night because it started to rain a lot, so I stayed, I hope you don’t mind,” you acted nonchalant, but you felt the opposite.

Before going on his Paris work trip, Harry asked you to take care of his cat. She didn’t like a lot of people and the two of you seemed to get along quite well, from what he had seen. Daisy usually kept to herself, and he would’ve asked Mitch to do it. But he was worried to leave her all alone, mainly because she still wasn’t fully comfortable in the new apartment. It broke his heart a little when he imagined her meowing at the front door the whole week, begging for him to come back to her.

He thought that if you were tasked to take care of her, the two of you liked each other enough for you to stay around the apartment for a little more than Mitch, who Daisy doesn’t really like, and keep the cat company. Even for a little while.

“That’s fine, I’m actually glad you did. Wouldn’t want you driving in bad weather,” he answered.

“When did you come back?” You questioned curiously.

“Today at about 3:20,”

The deep circles around his eyes could’ve told you that themselves. He looked so tired and you almost wanted to send him back to bed. Almost.

“Well, how about we eat breakfast, I got some on the way here, considering today’s date,” you wiggled your eyebrows and stood up, before helping him up as well.

“You shouldn’t have, but thank you, I’m starving,” he grinned and his stomach rumbled as if on cue.

You nodded toward the paper bag on the counter and his eyes lit up.

“Oh you know me so well, this was what I wanted,”

As he started eating his breakfast burrito from an expensive downtown cafe, you sneakily lit up a candle on a cupcake from the same cafe.

“Happy birthday,” you smiled as you revealed the little treat.

“Thank you, darling,” he smiled brightly. This was his first birthday you were spending together, so it put quite a lot of weight on your shoulders because of that.

“I wanted to bake a cake, but I didn’t have much time,” you scratched the back of your neck, suddenly feeling as if you could’ve done more for him on his special day. He shook his head.

“nonsense, this is everything I could ever want, thank you,” he pulled you closer to his chair, and wrapped his arms around your waist, resting his chin on your stomach.

“Eat the cupcake, so you can open your gifts,” you ruffled his hair and pulled away from him.

“You didn’t have to get me anything, you know,” he plopped a piece of the cupcake into his mouth, savoring the taste of the cake.

“But I wanted to, it’s not anything big,” you waved your hand.

“Although it is big in volume, so it might look that way when you see it, I couldn’t package it properly,” you pointed out.

Soon after he had finished eating, you moved to the living room, where he got the first glance at the huge boxes taking up most of the space in front of his living room couch, and gave you a ‘what the fuck’ glance which made you laugh with how comical it was.

“As I said, it is big in volume, doesn’t mean it is big or I spent a lot of money on it,” you shrugged as you plopped down on the couch. He looked at the boxes in front of him, as if contemplating what to do next.

“Which should I start with?” he finally asked. You thought about it for a moment.

“Considering that the original idea of this gift was this,” you nodded towards the second largest box.

“I think you should start with that one,” You pointed toward the one with a sparkly pink bow wrapped around it.

Harry gently raised it from the floor to the couch, and immediately started to work on untying the prettily tied bow.

“No fucking way,” he gasped when he pulled the blanket out of the box, spreading it on his lap. His eyes sparkled with wonder as he ran his fingers along the chunky pattern of the blanket.

“Do you like it?” You asked nervously as you bit on your bottom lip.

“Are you kidding me? I love it,” he grinned and ushered you to come closer to him. You maneuvered around the boxes sitting on the floor and plopped to the space beside him. He didn’t waste any time and immediately wrapped his arms around you in a bear hug, tucking his face into your neck.

“You made these?” He asked, his eyes full of wonder.

“Yeah, I dusted off my sloppy knitting skills from high school, turns out I actually still have it in me,” you joked.

“This is one of the best gifts I’ve ever gotten, hands down,” he kissed your cheek softly, making your face heat up.

“Open the next one, you can pick the order,” you redirected him to look at the gifts, desperately trying to hide your bashfulness.

He ended up loving all of his gifts, immediately placing them around his home. With his pillows wrapped in soft wool covers, a blanket thrown on the back of his couch, and the duvet placed on his bed, it was time for lunch.

“Let’s get some lunch,” Harry suggested as he sipped on his coffee, watching you play with Daisy.

“Okay, but make it quick, I have to get ready for your party later,” you agreed. You didn’t have anything to do until the start of his party later that evening, at around 7 pm.

You ordered Harry’s favorite Chinese takeout from 3 blocks away. He always whined that the restaurant ruined any other Chinese food for the rest of his life, it was that good. As the two of you waited, the conversation between you flowed naturally. You caught up on how you’ve been, how Daisy acted while he was away, and if you got the photos he sent you when he was away.

It didn’t take long for the Chinese to arrive, and you dived into it, already hungry from the small breakfast you had.

You didn’t stay for very long after that, excusing yourself because you had to get your nails done for the party.

You kissed Harry’s cheek as a goodbye before you slipped out of his apartment, a wide smile playing on your lips

You walked out to the balcony, still hearing the base of the music a wall away. You breathed in the cold February city air as you wrapped your arms around yourself. As much as you liked to celebrate with Harry, this really wasn’t your scene. You scrolled on your phone for a bit, before you were interrupted by the sliding doors opening.

“Hey, why are you out here, aren’t you cold?” Harry called out, his speech slurred with the amount of alcohol he had drunk. He came up towards you and pulled you into a hug, a pitiful attempt to keep you from getting cold.

“Just wanted to take a breather, this is not really my scene, Sarah already made me drink much more than I usually do, so I feel the buzz” you chuckled in your tipsy daze, arms sneaking around his waist.

“Can I tell you a secret?” He asked quietly. You only nodded, amused at his drunken slurs.

“It’s not my scene either, I hate clubs, but I never told anyone because I like to see them happy during the party. Birthdays are the only reason to go to a club for them because, and I quote ‘we are too old’, so I let them do this every year and eventually enjoy it when I get enough alcohol in my system,” he whisper shouted, making you grin.

“You are a good friend Harry,” you murmured and tightened your arms around him.

“You think so?” He questioned, head falling to your shoulder, breathing in your scent.

“Yeah, I’ve never met anyone who does so much for their friends,”

“I try,”

“I know,”

You stayed on the balcony for a while longer, swaying to soft imaginary music in your heads, completely disregarding the rough beat just a few steps away from you.

“I missed you this week,” you murmured, squeezing his waist a bit tighter.

“I missed you too, not being able to call you killed me,” he kissed the top of your head.

You looked out to the city, only humming in acknowledgment quickly getting lost in your thoughts.

Today, being all about Harry, made you even more aware of your feelings for him. After your ex-boyfriend, you were determined to wait a few years until your next relationship, wanting to truly get together mentally. But Harry was making it super fucking hard.

“What are you thinking about, hm?” He placed his finger under your chin, making you look at him.

“Nothing, jus’ feelings,” you slurred, getting lost in his touch on your skin.

“Feelings?” He asked, trying to coax something more out of you. Some sort of emotion flashed in his eyes.

“Yeah, they are sort of unwanted, I didn’t want to feel this way for at least a few years, not after Adam,” you murmured looking into his eyes.

Harry shifted on his feet, looking blankly behind you.

“So, who’s the lucky person?” He gritted out. Despite the alcohol running through your veins, you quickly realized that something was wrong.

“Hey, what’s wrong,” you placed a hand on his cheek, making him look at you this time.

He shook his head, stepping away from you with what looked like a sad expression.

“Nothing, I should get back though,” he whispered and turned around to get back inside.

You grasped his wrist.

“I didn’t get to tell you who it was,” you murmured, pulling him in and wrapping your arms around his waist once again.

“Forget it,”

“No!”

“I want to get this off my chest, it has been a few months since I’ve felt this way,” you ran your hands up his chest, making him shiver and gasp lowly.

Looking up at him, you stood on your tip toes, the bottoms of your feet hurting from the uncomfortable heels you were wearing.

“It’s you,” you whispered into the air, hooking your arms around his neck, your fingers tangling into the stray hairs at the nape of his neck.

Harry looked at you, eyes full of emotion, as he cradled your face in his palms, thumbs rubbing your cheeks lovingly.

“You mean it? It’s truly me?” He asked, a smile forming on his handsome face.

You couldn’t get any words out, only managing to nod your head repeatedly.

“You warmed your way into my heart, deeper than anyone has ever been,” you sighed, nuzzling your cheek against the palm of his hand.

“I’m glad, I’m so glad,” he breathed out, pressing his forehead against yours, gazing into your eyes lovingly.

“Me too,” you mumbled before you moved closer, connecting your lips in a soft, but long-awaited kiss.

“So what no-” Harry started before he was interrupted by the sound of his name being called by his friends.

You quickly kissed him again.

“Go, we will talk tomorrow, when we are sober,” you smiled and he nodded sheepishly, before he stumbled back inside, making you smile.

---

Lord have mercy on me. I posted this one like 6 times and it didn't show up in the tags so hopefully, this time it works. Please reblog in case it didn't so this gets to people who don't follow my blog.

Thanks, xx

Take care <3

[robins-egg-bindery]

ever in your favor by @iron--spider

Peter startles awake when someone shakes him. 

“Sorry, honey,” May says. Peter blinks a couple times and she comes into focus, her hair pulled back from her face. She’s trying not to look a certain way, but he can see it in her eyes anyway. She clears her throat, keeps talking. “But it’s…” She glances away, wets her lips. “You gotta get ready.”

He remembers what day it is, and his heart beats like a drum at someone’s execution. But he tries to put on a mask, make it all seem normal. It’s everything but, despite the fact that he’s been dealing with reaping day since he was born, between himself, Ben and May. That fear that one of them could be taken away. Sent to surefire slaughter. But now Ben is gone, taken despite never having his name drawn from a bowl, and May’s finally safe. Now Peter’s name is in there alone. The last Parker sitting on the chopping block. He doesn’t know how to be. He doesn’t know what normal is, when the Hunger Games are looming on the horizon.

fic by @iron--spider

art by @angel-gidget

624 pages / 153,984 words

Title Font: PP Hatton, Rustic Printed

Body Fonts: Californian FB, Moonglade, Bebas Neue, War Is Over, Architects Daughter

More on the process below the cut!

I have...SO much to say about this project! This fic was one that I've wanted to do ever since I started fanbinding, and it was one I saved until my technical skills caught up with my vision for the book. @iron--spider is my favorite author and a wonderful friend, and I wanted to be able to do this masterwork justice!

Given that it's a Hunger Games AU, I wanted to touch on the Hunger Games aesthetic while still being unique. I started with the cover; I knew I wanted red and yellow, something bold and evocative of the Iron Man, Spiderman vibe. It also doubles as an implication of the blood spilt during the games, especially in volume II - when Peter actually enters the games. I chose the spider for the cover, and painted it on the cover paper with inky black paint; I cut a stencil, and while the images did have some drippy areas, I don't mind it so much. It's meant to look like graffiti, Peter's symbol that the people of the Districts scrawl everywhere they can get away with it.

In turn, I also experimented with a paint pen on this one of the titling, done on the spine piece, which is black Better Than Goat leather! Again, I went in with a stencil, and opted for blockier letters, like something you might see spray painted onto a wall.

The endpapers are custom; I messed around with a weird cityscape I found and came out with the image you see above. The setting for the games is a futuristic city, much like MCU NYC would be, complete with an Avengers Stane tower.

And then of course, there's the typeset itself! The Hunger Games books don't have particularly striking typesets, but I did go for the dystopian vibe with the Rustic Printed font on the chapter numbers, and Moonglade for the chapter titles, giving it a very industrial feel.

It was also a pleasure to include the art that @angel-gidget did for the fic as well! Her book covers are so gorgeous and I love her manip style so much <3 I also included the short drabble @iron--spider did on her Tumblr, a post-story snack-sized fic, as well as a meta question she answered via her asks that I thought was particularly interesting. The District guide at the back, including what Districts each character belongs to and whether or not they are deceased was interesting to put together, and I hope I didn't make any mistakes!

Last, but certainly not least, this book was the first one I was able to do really nice headbands on. Shoutout to @morningstarbindery who helped me learn how! They look phenomenal and I never would have figured it out on my own <3

I'm excited for everyone to see these books! One day I'll have all your works on my shelf ;)

[squid789]

Squid's Trigun Fanfic Recs

Hey, so I'm done with self promos so its time appreciate a bunch of you guys in line with @trigunfanfic appreciation week! A lot of this is gonna be straight up vashmeryl, heads up. Although we all know what I'm about, so I guess have fun! :3

Gonna start with one of my best friends and also my beta, @eomma-jpeg. You may know her from her millynai epic, In the Meadow. But right now she's working on a vashmeryl college au fic called What a Shame! By far one of my favorite writers! She also wrote a companion millywood oneshot for Sea Foam as well called Refuge from the Storm that I want to get printed for myself.

@scoundrels-in-love is another prolific writer I usually look forward to! Man, they sort of write a little bit of everything in regards to ship and canon. I mostly know them for mashwood, but my all time favorite fics of theirs is If this is communication, I disconnect. its everything I could ever want from a post max vashmeryl fic. Absolute gold!!

Okay, here's the thing. I am a slut for vashmeryl, but @ladymaliwan's writing is so good to convince me to branch out. Their stryfewood fics are to die for and imaginative and thank you for sharing so much of your snippets with me!!! They mean the world to meee ;3;

Next up is @eezybree's Bluebells. Man, ngl, Sav you give me a lot of writer's envy with this fic. AHHHH it's so fucking goooooood. I know I'm a chapter or two behind but man they get emotions across so well and that fluff is to die for. Comletely wonderful post max vashmeryl

Another one I am woefully behind on. But I remember way back last year when @faindri was still doing a lot of the concept art for EBS. I'm not usually one for aus but who can resist a space opera? And the amount of detail and worldbuilding in this fic is astonishing and actually super inspiring!

Okay I feel like @wandererriha's Get Help series is criminally underrated. Again, usually not a fan of aus, but this modern au is charming as all hell and I find myself coming back to it whenever I feel down.

Also shoutout to the folks who I have no idea have a tumblr account or not or just plain too scared to say hi too but also highly recommend Birds do it, bees do it, plants can do it by RambleFox, Condensed Trigun by SugarPill, Horticulture Blues by dweeblet, The End by ginger_mosaic, Reporter's Notes by @museqmeg, No Reason by @eilwen, this is our body (come out of the bath) by @spacebeyonce, and Arcaronar by JackelJamboree. All of these are on AO3! Also on ff.net, I recommend looking at Their Life by cmr2014. It's a super short post 98 vashmeryl oneshot that makes me super giggly when I read it! My FINAL rec is After the Fall by Girl.Interpreted, also on ff.net. If any of you have known me for a while, you'll know that this fic has some sentimental value to me personally. To start, its an unfinished post 98 vashmeryl fic with a healthy does of adventure and A LOT of trimax references. Way baaaack about a decade ago, I had just trimax for the first time after rediscovery of trigun, which was first introduced to me as a kid by my weird, weird dad. And man was I craving more trigun. So I went on ff.net for the first time ever at like one in the morning and this was the fic that got me into fanfcition just as concept and a hobby. I wouldn't be writing fic until early college, but man this story STUCK with me in ways I couldn't begin to imagine. But the writing and the story and just everything... AHHHHHHHH Anyways go read After the Fall!!!! I doubt it will ever be finished, but I can dream But literally, GO READ ALL OF THESE FICS! GO ENJOY THEM!!!!!!! IM BEGGING YOU!!! Happy Trigun Fanfic Appreciation Week!!!!

[indiaalphawhiskey]

fake fic title! "crescent moons fix broken hearts"

would love it if it could be hl? 👀

Sorry this took so long! I really needed to write something today to flex the muscle, I hope you and @awesomefringey (who submitted the t-shirt pic) like it. 🥰 (I tried to post this twice with a moodboard but Tumblr wouldn’t let me. 😒)

🌙 Crescent Moons Fix Broken Hearts

Sitting in the en suite of the lavish hotel room, the soft lighting of the vanity illuminating the planes of his face, Harry let the radical irony of what he was about to do wash over him.

It was a weird thing, he realized, this feeling of waiting for a moment your entire life – preserving it, building it up – only to have it finally, finally come in a form so different it was almost laughable.

Not almost. Harry did laugh.

Half because he caught sight of his ridiculously nervous expression in the mirror, and half because apparently, one minute someone could be the perfect pure, virginal (if a little sexually frustrated) Omega groom-to-be fitting their bespoke wedding suit in at a highly exclusive designer shop, and three days later, be that very same Omega, revenge and wildly expensive tequila shooting through their veins as they booked their would-have-been honeymoon suite to have raunchy sex with an Alpha they’d hired specifically to finally deflower them, once and for all.

Turns out getting dumped in a Saville Row dressing room because one’s ex-fiancé thought they were quote, “an uppity, frigidly cold fish who he probably had no sexual chemistry with anyway”, unquote, really lit a fire under one’s arse.

Harry flared his nose in anger, his thoughts murderous as images of his beautiful, wasted wedding invitations danced back into his mind, haunting him. His cheeks began their now familiar pinkening with his remembered humiliation, and then…

A soft knock unfortunately interrupted Harry’s montage of fantastic daydreams of running over every single one of his ex-fiancé’s prized watches to the intro of Led Zeppelin’s Immigrant Song.

“Come in,” he called out gently – or as gently as one could through gritted teeth.

As the door slid away, the unfamiliar, unassuming coolness of rosemary and sage rolled in slowly. Harry wasn’t used to it; accustomed to sharing spaces with the scent of warm whiskey and leather layered with that wretchedly expensive cologne Harry had always hated.

But back to the sage.

Sage, and rosemary, and cedar, and… he let the last note tickle his nose as he tried to name it.

“Are you okay?” Louis Tomlinson asked.

… and soap, Harry realized, oddly comforted even as he wondered whether the name was a pseudonym; wondered if it was standard procedure to print such a convincing alias on a discreet calling card that would eventually be passed across an elegant brunch table at the Dorchester.

(‘Niall, don’t be absurd,’ Harry had sniffed, trying his best to push the card back towards him without making a scene. ‘Jesus, just be normal and introduce me to one of your investment bankers, or something.’

Niall had given him a long, silent, and completely unimpressed look in response, glancing down at the engagement ring Harry was still wearing, if only to make a point. Ouch.

‘Harry, trust me. After this shitshow, you of all people deserve an orgasm on the first go. Treat yourself.’)

“I’m alright.” The polite platitude was out of his mouth accompanied by a reserved smile through the mirror before he could stop it.

It wasn’t like he could tell the truth anyway; not like he could say, ‘No, actually. I’m fucking livid, because a week ago I was about to be married, and today my financial manager called to ask if my credit card had been stolen because there was a suspicious charge from RoyaLT Enterprises for a ‘Platinum Package – All Inclusive’ on it when I was assured this service would be discreet, goddamnit!’

He bit his tongue, mostly because Harry didn’t tell Louis about the jilting; had decided against it the moment he had clicked ‘Platinum’, the description reading ‘two-week session with certified heat coach (Alpha) focused on scent familiarity, building sexual rapport, and discussing intimacy needs in addition to agreed heat cycle partnership.’

A virgin who had saved himself for marriage only to be jilted a week before his wedding because he was, in fact, a virgin, paying for sex and intimacy, trapped in a room with someone who really shouldn’t be as attractive as he had turned out to be… It had all just felt a little too humiliating.

Which, speaking of…

“Sorry,” Harry blurted out softly now, slowly coming to his senses. He turned to face Louis, his eyes widening. “We’re… we’re on the clock, aren’t we? Am I… I’m wasting your time?”

Louis chuckled softly – kindly, really – and casually leaned against the door frame, crossing his ankles. He was shirtless, Harry only now realized, as he watched him slip both hands into the pockets of his silk pajama bottoms, making them ride dangerously low against his happy trail.

Louis shook his head. “You’re supposed to take your time, get comfortable with me.” He raised his hand to gesture to himself – what he was wearing, and then the space between them. “This is all part of it.” He grinned wide, and Harry had noticed he was handsome when they’d met, but the genuine warmth of his smile is what made it. (Well, his smile, and his abs, and the still respectable but no less impressive hint of a bulge in his pajama bottoms…) “It’s called the boyfriend package for a reason.”

Funny, Harry thought then, feeling just a little bit… well, a little bit wet. He’d never had a boyfriend who looked quite like this.

Niall’s wise words began to reverberate in his mind: ‘Treat yourself.’

Harry bit back a cheeky smile. He intended to.

— Or, When Harry Styles did things, he did them right. Why should losing his virginity be any different?