#love a lot going on. love that it's really not trying to Be extremely settled in some Conclusive manner in any version. tends to be a win

[unproduciblesmackdown]

Full Tech Day One pic today from kiko laureano (denizen of skid row / ensemble) & video (that's four seconds of "ya never know" playing over the static image) from & ft. marcia milgrom dodge (director / choreographer) double captioning "there might be puppets in this musical ;)" & "Well Shake my hand! Come see LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS @guthrietheater featuring @actually_will_roland's hand!"

[no-144444]

guilt tripping- o.piastri

summary: oscar asks something of you that you know you can't do. you do it anyway and it ends in you two almost breaking up. almost.

pairing: oscar piastri x fem! chronic illness! reader

a/n: hey yall, I just broke two ribs (lol) and got diagnosed with a chronic illness (lmao) so I might not be posting as frequently- just dealing with it physically and mentally so yah 😹

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“I don’t know if I can go,” you sighed, feeling even worse. 

“That’s alright,” he assured you, but you could hear the way his excitement depleted and his mood lowered. 

“M-maybe I can work something out, I don’t want to leave you alone,” your guilt grew everyday, this wasn’t healthy for either of you. 

“I don’t want you over-exerting yourself,” he spoke softly into the phone. “I’ll just ask mum if she has any friends that want to go or something. She always brings a million people with her.”

“I don’t want to leave you hanging Oscar. Melbourne is a big race. I’d be happy to come over like a week before, and then come to the race once I’ve had a few days to heal,” you bargained. A 22 hour connecting flight was not something you’d ever wanted to do. You couldn’t do it. You knew the pain would be too bad, yet you still stood there, offering it anyway. “And then I’d come for the race on Sunday, or just small bits on all the days.”

“Really?” his voice picked up, excited now. “You’re sure?”

“I’m sure Osc, I love seeing you race,” your smile was more of a grimace than anything, but still, the guilt in your chest lessened as you listened to Oscar speak animatedly about the race weekend, while your anxiety ran through the roof. You couldn’t do all the things he wanted you to do, you never could. This had been a problem at the beginning of your relationship, every time he’d plan a date that wasn’t dinner or a movie, you’d have to break the news that a 15 kilometre hike wasn’t something you’d be able to do on a whim. Things like that took planning, physio, and preparation. Your chronic illness was no joke, and had limited you since you were a teenager. In the past few years he’d gotten much better at everything, from helping you with your physio exercises, attending pilates classes with you, knowing what to do on bad pain days, and always looking out for you in public. You knew he was just getting away with himself, and you didn't want to disappoint, so you agreed to it all, hoping against hope that it wouldn’t be a bad week of pain or flare-ups wise. 

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You got into Melbourne and sobbed when you got in the car. Thankfully, it was Hattie picking you up, so she just held your hand as you silently cried, the joint and too much to bear. You went straight to bed as Hattie explained to the rest of the house that you were exhausted, and Oscar took it at face value. You usually get extremely tired after long days, and you’d just had a 22-hour day of travel. 

“I’ll go check on her-” he started, desperate to see you but Hattie cut him off. 

“NO!” she squeaked, trying to not sound suspicious. Oscar raised an eyebrow. “She’s really tired and she’s already gone to sleep.”

“Yeah, well I’m tired so I’m going to bed,” he explained, stretching then yawning. 

“Osc,” Hattie sighed, knowing she had to tell him. “She’s not… alright. She can’t do 22 hour travel days like you or I can. She has Lupus and she’s still trying to figure out her medication, so it hurts all the time. She cried from the airport to here, all to support you because you asked her to, and she feels guilty every single time she can’t say yes. She’s done real damage to herself by coming here. I want you to understand that, do you understand that?” 

Oscar nodded, because the other option was breaking down into tears. Yes, he’d felt guilty that he couldn’t be there to take care of you while travelling, and he knew he was asking a lot of you when he asked. The guilt settled deep in his stomach and made him nauseous, but still he continued on to his bedroom where you were sleeping peacefully. He could see the puffy eyes, the red nose, the open bottles of medication on the nightstand. He wrapped an arm around your waist, another in your hair and pulled you as close as possible, whispering teary sorrys into your ear. 

When you woke up the next morning, you knew what you had to do. This wasn’t fair on either of you, and you needed to make a change. You quickly (but silently) got up, and started to leave the room, but Oscar grabbed ahold of your hand before you could leave. 

“Please don’t sneak out on me,” he begged, sitting up. He looked wrecked, puffy eyes, red rose- had he been crying? God, had you made him cry? 

“Osc, what’s wrong?” you asked, concern clear as day on your face as you cupped his face with your hands.

“I’m sorry,” he whispered, his voice breaking. “I knew I was asking too much when I asked you to come here, I’m so sorry.”

Your heart tightened in your chest. “Osc, I’m alright, I was just tired last night and-”

“Hattie told me,” his voice was deep, deeper than usual, and he pressed a gentle kiss to your hand. “And I’m so sorry.”

“Osc, I could’ve said no if I didn’t think I was able for it,” you tried to reassure him but he shook his head. 

“Y/n, you did say no and I didn’t take it as an answer,” he scoffed. 

You were stunned into silence. “I think we need to have a talk about us, Osc.”

He nodded, taking your hands in his. 

“This isn’t fair on you. I know I can't control my illness, and neither can you. It sucks, but it’s a fact. I wish I could be there for every single race and cheer you on with the other girls, but I can’t. It’s not in the cards for me right now, and I don’t know when it will be. Oscar, I love you so much, and you’ve been with me through everything and I know you deserve someone who can always be there for you, and I’m not that person right now. I love you but I know it’s not enough,” You finally looked at him and he was biting his lip as tears streamed down his cheeks. “I’m sorry.”

He shook his head and stood up, dropping your hands as he paced his bedroom. “You know how much I love you, don’t you?” he asked and you nodded as you held back more tears. “So you know that I still feel your support even when we’re in different time zones or on different continents, right? You know that I value you being in as little pain as possible more than being at the barricade after a race, right? You know that I fucking love you more than I love racing, right? Y/n, I’ve been here the entire time, since we were 14 years old. You’re the reason I get in the car, you make me better, all the time it’s just you. I plan on being with you for my whole life, Y/n. I want to be there for everything. I plan to sit there through every appointment about medication until you find the one that actually helps you, I plan on being there for every day where you don’t feel up to it, I plan on being there for you, always. I never want to let go of you, and yeah, it is nice to be able to see you after a race, and I know that because fucking facetime exists. If you still want to break up because I fucked up by asking you to come here, go ahead, but don’t ever think that I’m without because I’m with you. I am so in love with you, Y/n. I mean it. I want to marry you one day, I want a family with you, I want to be old with you so we get to reminisce on the good ol’ days and make some more while we have time. ‘The good ol’ days’ will be the days I spend with you. More than any race win, more than any trophy, or than anything. My favourite part about a race weekend is coming home because I know no matter what my result was, you’ll be there with open arms, loving me anyways. You’re more than enough for me.”

You crossed the room and wrapped your arms around him, crying into his hoodie as he held you. “I love you too.”

After a few moments of both of you calming down, he finally spoke. “Can you forgive me for being such an asshole?” he asked, wiping his eyes. 

You nodded, a small smile on your face. “I can, can you forgive me for being such an idiot?���

He chuckled. “You’re no idiot,” he picked you up and gently placed you back on the bed lying beside you. “I love you.” 

“I love you too.”

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navigation for my blog :) (masterlist)

[angelfrombeneth]

THE NOT SO SECRET, SECRET - P . PARKER

Mature Content Ahead

Peter Parker (Tom) x Stark!Reader

Summary: You and Peter are sneaking around but how secret is your secret?

Warnings: SMUT

You and Peter have been hooking up for a while. Since your dad brought him to the compound you've been around eachother a lot. Your dad still doesn't know about your late night rendezvous with Peter, and you'd like to keep it that way.

You are Tony's eldest daughter. You aren't an avenger and he wanted you to steer clear of that life but you refused to live with Pepper and Morgan because you wanted atleast a bit of action. You're like any teenage girl going to school, having boy problems. You decided to join the cheer squad for Midtown High, considering you train daily with Nat you might aswell put it to good use.

You were one of Tony's prized possessions he held you really close. Daddy's girl if you will. You were extremely smart and he used your mind to his gain with Avenger tasks which you were more than happy to help with. It was a perfect arrangement. It got even more perfect when Peter arrived at the compound 2 years ago. Both of you being the same age, go to the same school, yet you'd never seen him before. The pair of you instantly connected becoming friends at the compound and at school, but then it became more.

You hopped out of the shower, pulling on a cropped tank top over your bare chest with some shorts. You pulled your hair from the shower cap, running your fingers through it as you smiled.

"The Avengers are back Miss Y/N" FRIDAY filled the room.

"Thanks FRIDAY" You smiled, before grabbing a clip and clipping your hair back in a loose ponytail before skipping down the stairs.

"God I'm exhausted" Thor groaned, throwing himself on the couch.

You reached the bottom of the stairs, turning the corner and leaning against the door frame staring at them all. "Long day?" You chirped.

You watched as Peter's head raised and his eyes shot daggers at you. He scanned your body, continously. You were satisfied with this.

"Y/N, Have you done your homework" Tony emerged from his side office just off the livingroom as he stood, fixing his shirt cuffs.

"Yes, Dad" you groaned.

"Good, that's my little girl" He smiled at you before turning to everyone in the room. "All of you come with me" He stated before walking towards the conference room before halting. "Not you Parker" As he looked at Peter.

The rest of the Avengers piled into the conference room before the door shut.

"Aww, Poor Parker being left out" You cooed, walking over and standing above him as he settled into the couch.

Peter looked up at you, sighing as he reached to touch your thighs, holding the flesh just below your ass. "I can have much more fun out here with you" He smiled.

"I'd love that but, I'm tired" You snickered. You leaned over, giving him a perfect view down your shirt as you pecked his lips softly. "Tah tah!" Before turning around and running off upstairs.

That night, Peter had plenty of food for thought, the way your ass spilled from those tight ass shorts you wore or the way your nipples stayed harder under your tank top. He couldn't help but think about you.

THE NEXT MORNING

"Morning" You smiled, as you walked into the dining room, leaning over Steve as you grabbed a waffle, taking a bite. You stood in your Midtown High cheer uniform, decked in Blue, White and Yellow. Your hair up in a high ponytail as your sleek silver rectangle reading glasses rested upon your nose.

"Morning Y/N, You got cheer today?" Steve smiled as he held your waist as you leaned against him.

"Yep!" You popped the 'P' as you smiled at him, "You coming to class Peter" You smiled up at him.

His eyes were already trained on you, burning through your clothes as if he was trying to see you without them.

"Yes- Of course" He stumbled over his words.

"God Parker, that reminds me. You whine like a bitch" Bucky scoffed.

"What-" He looked to Bucky confused.

"I've never know someone to moan like a bitch like you do" Bucky laughed, earning a snicker from Thor and Sam.

"Aww Bucky leave him alone" Nat scolded him.

"Yeah! And besides, what's wrong with that Buck? I love a whiney man" You smirked, watching as Peter choked on his water. Everyone laughed as Peter grew redder in the face "Anyway, catch up Parker. Im not waiting for you!" You cheered before walking out.

Peter instantly scrambled behind you, grabbing his bag and hoodie before darting out the door after you.

"Ten bucks, they'll hook up" Nat spoke.

"20, they already are hooking up" Buck, leaned back in his chair smirking.

"You think? He follows her like a lost puppy" Sam started.

"Even more so, I'm seeing it" Thor thought.

"We'll see" Nat raises her mug smiling to Bucky.

"Little Stark definitely has him on a leash" Sam laughs.

THAT EVENING

You sighed, walking back into the compound, dropping you bag on the floor by the door to the kitchen as you walked over to the fridge.

"Rough day?" You heard, as you bent down to grab a waterbottle from the bottom draw of the fridge. You turned around to see Peter leaning against the door frame in loose joggers and a compression shirt.

You hummed as you twisted the cap off the waterbottle, taking a sip as Peter made his way over to you.

"Missed you today, you were so busy with cheer I didn't see you" He huffed, placing a hand on your waist, his other hand moving the hair from your ear as he peppered kisses down your neck.

You smiled, placing the water bottle down on the counter as you turned to look at Peter, your hand instantly lost within his locks. You sighed, your hand dropping to the back of his neck as you pulled him towards you, your lips landing upon his.

This kiss was slow and soft, your lips moving against one another's as his hands slid down to your ass, kneading at it as his tongue slipped into your mouth.

You hummed, pulling him closer, both your arms wrapping around his neck as your tongue toyed with his, pulling him as close as you could as the pair of you pratically exchanged DNA.

Peter pulled away, panting softly as he smirked as you, the pair of your lips, slightly red and swollen. "Upstairs?" He quirked his eyebrow as you smirked nodding before taking his hand and leading him up to his room.

"We can't do it in my room, someone will tell my dad" You whispered walking down the hall past a few avengers bedrooms.

You made it to Peter's room. He grabbed your waist yet again crashing his lips onto yours as you sighed. His hands tightly on your hip as the kiss deepened. His lips, softly and flush against yours as his tongue subtly slipped in and out.

You leaned back against his door, feeling for the handle as you pushed it open, the pair of you stumbling in the room before Peter slammed it shut with his foot.

Breaking away as you kicked off your shoes and climbed onto his bed, he stood striking down at you.

"FRIDAY, Lock the door. No one can come in" He smirked.

"Door is locked Mr Parker" FRIDAY chimed back.

"All to myself" He smirked, peeling his shirt off and dropping his joggers as he dove ontop of you, kissing you again as his hands found themselves all over your body.

You giggle, your lips against his as you kiss him back before he pulls away, his lips against your neck, sucking at the skin as you sighed, your hands running over his bare back.

He pulled away for a moment, pulling your cheer dress over your head and throwing it across the room, leaving you in just your underwear.

"Didn't know you were that needy Parker" you laughed, his hands instantly on your bra as he yanked it down, his hands kneading at your breasts.

"I'm going to make you feel so good" He smirked, his hands reaching you unclasp your bra before tossing it aside as his mouth latched onto one of your breasts.

You gasped, biting your lip as his hands held your waist as you manurved to straddle him as he leaned against the headboard.

You sat up, yanking his boxers down to his knees as his cock sprung out and hit his stomach as you smirked. You grabbed a condom from his drawer, ripping it open abs sliding it down his length as you smirked. His eyes trained on you as his mouth was still full of your breast.

"Gunna ride you" You hummed, your hand sliding up his length as you sighed, pulling your panties aside as you pumped him a few times before slowly settling yourself down on his cock. Gasping for a moment as he penetrated through.

"So fucking hot" Peter mumbled, his hands on your boobs, squeezing them as he peered at you.

Your hips began to rock back and forth, rolling down against him as you hummed, the feeling of him curving up into you, drove you insane.

You hummed, biting your lower lip holding a pout as you tried to control yourself against the pleasure. Peter's mouth suctioned onto your breast, as his hand kneaded the other as you continued to rock your hips back and forth.

"You are such a boob guy" You let out a soft chuckle, your hand caressing through his hair as you sighed, swivelling your hips further against Peter.

A soft pop sounded the room as his mouth withdrew from your skin. "Mhm- How can I not be" He pecked your lips softly, as he shimmied back, leaning back against the headboard, spreading your legs with his as he began to thrust up into you.

"Ah!-" You yelped out, the thrusts throwing your body forward against his, your hands slithered up to grab the headboard as you attempted to steady your breaths between thrusts. "Nghh- there.. please-" You pleaded as hus hands gripped your hips tighter as he thrusted harder into you.

"Good girl-" He hummed, pushing up with his calfs, the position changed as you fell back against the foot of the bed, your back against the sheets as Peter got ontop of you, your legs clamped around his waist as his lips Instantly attached to your neck, sucking the skin harshly as his hips buckled into yours.

"Oh my god!-" You gasped, clawing at his back as you yanked his hair his eyes connecting with yours as you pulled him into a deep kiss. The pair of your lips locked messily, your tongues darting against one another as his pace became consistent.

You'd break away and take breaths as you yelped each time Peter pulled out and thrusted in once again- the feeling was amazing.

Your hand slid up to his neck, as you applied slight pressure as his eyes rolled back slightly and his pace sped up.

"Nghh- You like that- you like when I do this Pete?" You gasped, your hand toying with the grip on his neck as he pistoned faster into you- your voice cracking with moans as he continued.

A soft whine left his lips as he continued to thrust, a smile upon your lips at his sounds.

"M-mhm close" He groaned.

You placed a hand on his chest, signalling him to slow down as you slowly climbed out from under him as you smiled, getting onto all fours.

"I want you to cum in me Pete.." You smile back at him.

Peter quickly kneeled, gripping your ass as he slapped it, yanking the condom off his cock tying it n dropping it into his bedside bin- before rubbing his tip against your slit as you hummed.

"Is it safe to" His touch was soft against you.

"Shut up, I don't care" You pouted looking back at him.

With that he bottomed out, grasping your hips harsh as his bare cock thrusted into you- A whine behind you as he could feel every. single. inch.

"You've been such a good boy, I'd treat you, now fill me up" You leaned back against his chest, your hand on his cheek as you pecked his lips.

His hand pushed you back down into all fours as he thrusted into you.

Your back arches as you hummed, his pelvis thrusting into you as your eyes closed, gripping the sheets as you took it all in.

"Doing so good f'me" Peter mumbled from behind you, kissing your shoulder as he leaned over you, hand caged around your waist as he continued to thrust into you like a rabbit in heat.

You nodded as you sighed, your head hanging forward as he continued to thrust. Your body growing slightly tired as you whined, letting put a soft whine with each thrust.

"Faster.." You sighed, turning back and looking at Peter.

A wide smirk, spread across his face as he lifted you up to lean back against his chest, your lip between your teeth as you reached back, wrapping your arms round the back of his head.

"Such a good girl for me... If only everyone know how much of a good girl you were" He kissed your cheek, his hands snaking around your found as he gripped your tits. Peter was definitely a tit guy, every chance he could, he'd be holding them.

His lips on your neck, as he began to nip at the skin as his pace began to pick up. You croaked out a squeak as your body recoiled against the thrusts at first, soft hums leaving your lips as he'd thrust in and out of you.

You stayed like that for a while, both in such an intimate position but that was till Peter couldn't take it anymore. His hand harshly pushing you back down onto all fours as he grabbed your hair into a makeshift ponytail as he pummelled into you.

"FUCK- mhmphh!-" You screamed, throwing your face forward into his pillow, muffling any noises that came from you as he thrusted. Your ass slapping against his skin as he sped up. Soft groans leaving his lips as he was chasing his high. You were already so close, you were just waiting for him- but you don't think you could last much longer.

"Yes- Fuck.. Yes! I'm cumming-" Peter whined, his hand thrown over his face as his thrusts became sloppy as he bottomed out, thrusting harshly once more before pouring his load into you.

You also, releasing at the same time, letting out a loud screech at you fisted the sheets as you grit your teeth.

The pair of you panting heavily as Peter slowly pulled out, groaning as he collected any escaping and thrusted it back into you a few times.

"Mhpmh-" You whined slightly as he did so.

"Sorry" He laughed, pulling away as he layed next to you, scooping you up and pulling you into his side.

You smiled, pecking his lips softly before laying your head on his chest.

"That fucking uniform does something to me, I was thinking about you all day" He laughed, as you rolled your eyes chuckling.

The pair of you stayed there for a few more minutes before Peter carried you into the shower, where you two yet again couldn't keep your hands off one another.

THE NEXT MORNING

"I'll take that 20 bucks now Nat" Bucky walks into the seating area with a coffee in his hand.

"What?" Nat looked up at him, confused.

"I was up all night because of those kids- I told you they were hooking up" Bucky rubbed his head, groaning.

"I knew it" Sam smirked.

Nat groaned before leaning over and giving Bucky 20 dollars, of which he was very happy about.

"Morning!" You smiled, definitely a pep in your step as you walked into the lounge area wearing just a large tshirt.

They all turned to look at you, shocked at the sudden entrance, but even more shocked when they noticed the marks all over your neck to your legs. Bite marks, hickies and mysterious bruises.

"What?- Is there something on my face?" You reached to rub your face.

"You look like an animal has attacked you-" Sam chuckled.

You rolled your eyes at him.

Peter came behind you, wrapping his arms around you and kissing your cheek softly.

"Look, I know you guys know and my dad isn't here right now, so I'd just appreciate if you all didn't tell him" You smiled, your hand reaching your caress Peter's hair.

"Didn't tell me what?"

You all froze. Especially Peter.

[wosospacegirl]

Hiya mate!, Can I have a request maybe a Leah x reader or Alexia x reader. Where the reader join the current girlfriend trend and video their reaction..... Thank you

Love all the fic you made love lots

Current girlfriend- Alexia Putellas / Leah Williamson

I couldn't choose between my captains, so I did a little thing for both of them - two separate blurbs in one.

Word count: 1.7

..

Alexia Putellas

You weren't really someone who posted a lot on social media. Not when you were a teen, and absolutely not now that you dated Barcelona's golden girl.

Alexia liked her privacy. She liked knowing there were things the fans, the media, and the world didn't know. Your relationship wasn't necessarily one of those things. She didn't keep you tucked away in some apartment, hidden from everyone and everything. 

No, she didn't mind being seen walking down the streets with you; she couldn't care less about the cameras in her face when a game ended, and you had come down to the pitch to hug her.

She just didn't like leaving much of a digital footprint, and you were the same way. You liked to keep some things just between the two of you.

But oh. When you saw that little TikTok prank, you couldn't help yourself. You wanted to try it, but you also didn't like the whole world seeing it…the camera would give away parts of your shared home, and that was something just for you two and the people closest to you.

So you decided to film it just for yourself. That way, you could still participate in the trend, keep yours and Alexia's privacy intact, but the prank would have to be tweaked a little.

You tucked the phone into one of the sofa pillows. Didn't have to hide it much, Alexia was terrible at noticing things she wasn't actively looking for.

You sat on the sofa and gave the camera one last look. Great, the frame was perfect.

"Ale, come here!"

Alexia was getting ready for training, focused, in her usual headspace, and of course, you had to mess with her. Just a little.

She said something back from upstairs that you couldn't make out, but then she appeared a few minutes later. And she looked so beautiful with her training jersey on, it made you wanna keep her to yourself.

"So I have this small party at work this Saturday, can you go with me?" You asked gently.

Alexia's face softened. "No lo sé, cariño, tengo que revisar mi agenda" [I don’t know, love, I have to check my schedule.]

You were very used to that response, you expected it even, so you just smiled back, leaning even further into the sofa, you were just getting comfortable.

"Well…as my current girlfriend–" you pretended to cough so it would give her some time to comprehend and let the word settle in. "--you need to be present! It's at 7 pm."

Alexia's smile faltered a bit, and you could see that she was caught between a mix of "did I hear that right?" with "that can't possibly be true."

"Qué?" [What?] She said, her eyebrows furrowing. She was so confused, it was funny and cute at the same time.

"Dinner, at 7 pm, amor," you repeated, but not the part she clearly wanted. "But if you can't go, it's alright…"

"No, no," she shook her head. "Current? Current girlfriend?"

Bingo

"Yes?"

"No? Why current? We've been dating for three years." She said, her voice a little impatient now, as if she was asking herself why she even needed to be saying that.

"Well, yeah, but that doesn't change anything, we are still CURRENTLY dating," you emphasised the word.

Alexia moved on her heels, she opened her mouth, and then closed it again. She looked at you, then looked at her training bag on the floor.

"No me gustó eso," she said. "Not current.. solo novia, okay?" [I don't like that/ just girlfriend, okay?]

The pout on her face was so extremely cute that you weren't able to keep your composure. You got up from the sofa and wrapped your arms around her.

For a few seconds, she stood there, arms crossed, but then she gave in.

"I don't like that word," she mumbled against your shoulder, her voice almost in a whine. "Current makes it sound temporary."

You couldn't help the smile spreading across your face as you held her tighter. "I know, baby. I'm sorry."

"We're not temporary," she pulled back just enough to look at you, that little pout still there. "Sí?"

"No, we're definitely not temporary." You said, kissing her whole face.

She studied your face for a moment. "Wait..." Her eyes narrowed. "You're smiling too much. Why are you…"

Her gaze moved around the room and landed on the phone peeking out from the pillow. Okay, maybe Alexia did have some hidden ability to find phones, actually. 

"Ay, por Dios,"  she groaned, but you caught the corner of her mouth twitching. "You filmed this?"

"Maybe."

"Qué tonta eres…" [You are such a dork] she said, fighting a smile. "Delete it."

"I was already planning to," you laughed, pulling her even closer. "It was just for me anyway. I wanted to see if I could make Barcelona's golden girl pout."

"I don't pout."

"Hmm." You kissed her forehead. "You definitely pout."

She huffed against your neck, but her arms tightened around you. "Next time you want to mess with me, just ask for attention like a normal person."

"Where's the fun in that?"

..

Leah Williamson

You were bored out of your mind. It was a rainy afternoon. It was grey, cold, and your girlfriend had some annoying thing she had to attend to. Meaning: it wasn't a great day at all.

Leah needed to be at some Lionesses' dinner, one to welcome the new girls who had just received their first senior call-up.

You weren't allowed to go since plus ones weren't permitted, so you decided last minute that you would go to some café and do something. You just didn't want to stay home alone.

You had a couple of uni assignments that needed to be done, some research you had to complete for your internship the other day, but the day was already depressing as it was…you didn't need to bring more of that into your already grey day. 

So drinking very expensive coffee and delicious pastries was the right answer. Plus, Leah felt bad that you couldn't go with her and had given you her card.

Your life had been so uneventful lately. With Leah's tight schedule and your responsibilities, you two couldn't go out much or spend the amount of time together that you would like. So you thought, why not make today a little different?

You weren't an influencer, per se, but you had a fair share of followers on Instagram, so why not do a little Instagram Live while you got ready for your outing and Leah got ready for hers? It was June–Pride month–and nothing better to celebrate it than showing off your very hot, very English Captain, Champions-winner girlfriend.

You had your dress on already, and Leah was doing her hair on the other side of the room. She looked pretty. She was wearing mom jeans, a plain white shirt, and a black leather jacket on top of that, you knew your followers would thank you for showing Leah and her outfit.

Again, very Pride Month. Very much gay.

You had obviously asked Leah if it was okay for her to show up in the live stream. She said yes (she always did whenever you asked her to film something with you), so you propped your phone on top of your makeup organiser and pressed play.

In a few minutes, you had a couple of hundred people watching you, to say the least. You began talking about random stuff, nothing really important, just about your day and your routine. 

Leah would casually walk behind you, stopping just long enough to wrap her arms around you and kiss your head before disappearing again, looking for her shoes or bag.

The people watching the live went crazy whenever Leah showed up. It was honestly funny, the amount of fire emojis running up and down on your screen.

Then, a comment popped up asking you to do a prank on Leah, the "Current Girlfriend" prank. The comment quickly disappeared among a hundred others, but it was enough time for you to read it and decide that you were going to do it.

"Leah," you said, looking at her while putting your lipstick on. "Come stand with me for a bit."

Leah was in a very good mood, so she did it quickly and without complaining. She stood by your side and wrapped one arm around your waist, bringing you closer. She kissed the top of your head while looking at the camera.

You decided that was the perfect moment.

"Well, my current girlfriend and I look so fine today and—"

"Current?" Leah interrupted, looking down at you, using the same voice she used when she was surprised. "Okay, wow!"

"What?" you asked, trying to sound clueless, which you were very good at.

"Current girlfriend?" Leah lifted her eyebrows cockily, as if she couldn't believe what was happening. "Who are you talking about? Not me, I'm sure."

"Of course I'm talking about you!" you said, looking at the phone, and then back at her. "Aren't you my current girlfriend?"

She laughed. Really laughed as you were trying to keep an emotionless face.

"I don't understand you," you said. "What's so funny?"

"You," Leah said. "You are funny, silly even, saying things like 'current girlfriend' as if you want to have a different girlfriend in the future."

"I never said that!" You smiled at her before pecking her lips, leaving your lipstick stain on her mouth. "You're being dramatic."

"Me? Dramatic?" Leah asked, pointing at herself, "You're messing with me, aren't you? That can't be possible."

You turned back to your mirror, the Instagram Live still going strong. You picked up some blush, applying it while watching Leah through the reflection.

Leah was so annoyingly confident that it was nearly impossible to pull these types of pranks on her. She didn't get annoyed or mad, she would actually laugh about how ridiculous it all sounded.

"Well…" She watched you through the mirror, making eye contact and putting two fingers in front of her mouth with that knowing look. She knew exactly how much you liked that gesture. "Maybe I should start looking for a future and steady girlfriend since this one–"

Now it was your turn to interrupt her. You rolled your eyes dramatically.

"Don't even finish that sentence," you warned, pointing the blush brush in her direction. "It was all a prank, okay?"

"Oh yeah?" she said, turning to face the phone screen with that smirk of hers. "I didn't even notice, baby." She winked at the camera. "Your girl's not as slick as she thinks she is."

..

a/n: hope you guys liked it!!

Tag list: @footy-lover264, @fortifyde, @naomigirmadefender, @neutraiise, @milkveed, @browercc, @ace-of-baked, @ikzzzya, @sky-the-trans-guy00, @knight-16, @wosohk04, @evaissleepy13, @papimapileon, @unpoppablebubbles @whiskeredshrimp-blog

[mayakern]

I honestly don’t know how to write this; I have spent all week attempting to figure out what to say.

Last Monday I was informed by our factory that our merchandiser and direct point of contact with the factory passed away unexpectedly two weeks ago. She was someone who I have spent a great deal of time speaking to ever since we switched factories two years ago. She helped us realize designs for new products, sent us samples of garments extremely quickly and kept track of all our orders. She went to bat for us if something went wrong with our print shop or if I was unhappy with how a garment pattern was interpreted by their team. As their first American client and a brand that focuses on size inclusion, something that is not typical of their other clients, she handled a lot of crazy requests from us without blinking and she was dedicated to ensuring that both us and our customers were happy. We talked nearly every day, and though it was work related she was one of the kindest people I have had the pleasure interacting with daily.

She was beyond dedicated to her work and to working with us. Turkey has an 11-hour time difference from me in California, which means when she was emailing me at 2pm in the afternoon it was 1am there. You can sure bet that I extended her the same courtesy and tried my best to answer her emails at night too, even when I would rather just be sleeping.

It was also clear just how much she loved her job, and now much she loved you guys. She had been silently watching our social media since we first started working with them. She got just as excited as we did on launch days and would often email me unprompted about how she was glad people were leaving such positive comments and reviews. She read your feedback when no one ever asked her to do that or even expected it of her. She did it because she really, really cared.

Even though she was miles away and we never met in person, she was like a coworker to me and the loss of her is like losing someone on our team.

The Maya Kern team, as a whole, has been dealing with a lot lately. I personally just moved (which took far longer than we expected) and Maya and Devin are gearing up to move back to Minneapolis pretty soon. With the loss of our merchandizer, it has taken the wind out of my sails a little bit. I was trying to push through, even though I am exhausted, and carry out the photo shoot for our new products this weekend, but it has become clear that my body just can’t handle it. My arthritis has finally told me to stop moving, so unfortunately, we are going to have to reschedule the shoot for later on.

We are doing everything we can to make sure our next product drop on the 21st still happens. But as of right now, due to this sudden loss, the garments haven’t even shipped from the factory yet and I am not optimistic that they will clear customs and get checked into the fulfillment center in time for the launch. This means the drop is likely going to be pushed back to December 5th and instead of a full photo shoot, we will probably have to settle for taking quick photos of everyone at home, and likely with our phones. 

We work really hard to deliver not just garments we believe in, but also pictures of said garments on bodies that our customers can relate to, and unfortunately I just do not think that is possible this time. As always, we really appreciate your patience and understanding during what has been a very difficult time for us.

Ash

Chief Operations Officer

[skyeistrying]

🖤Sevika HCs🖤

just random sevika hcs. broken up into categories for general, romantic, and nsfw headcanons respectively.

i didn’t try very hard while writing this, so my writing is probably subpar here but…yolo.

im in love with sevika so i add to this like every day …

men dni. minors dni. men dni. minors dni.

safe for enby lesbians. ♥️

general

* raging butch lesbian 🧡🤍🩷.

* her place is messy but in an organized chaos sort of way.

* she smells like cigar smoke (in a good way), leather, peppery mahogany, and a hint of something sweet.

* collects bottle caps. i can’t explain it, i just have a feeling she would!!

* extremely interested in Zaun’s history. she wont go into a full rant about it but she’ll drop interesting facts about it occasionally.

* has very, very cool, gay aunt vibes!!!

* cat person. just imagine her carrying a sweet little kitty with a sweet little smile on her face.

* actually an excellent cook.

* snores… hacks in the morning like a dad.

* before she lost her dominant arm, her hand writing was neat, very bold, and she wrote exclusively in all caps. she’s relearning her penmanship now.

* very heavy handed.

* completely quit smoking after she got a spot in piltover’s council and hardly drinks anymore.

* her carabiner is on the left side. she keeps the basics on it, so just her keys and one or two old key chains she has.

* in a modern au she would be into classic cars and the process of restoring them. her dream car is a 1970 mustang boss.

* on the topic of vehicles i can see her as a biker too. like, imagine seeing her taking off that helmet … swoon! imagine being her backpack … SWOON AGAIN!!!

romantic

* i feel like she doesn’t do romance very often, if at all. so you are one lucky ducky!

* it’s a lot for her to get used to so things develop slowly. patience is key here. she isn’t used to having someone really care about her, let alone love her.

* she’s pretty standoffish and awkward in the beginning. some might say stilted. she never really saw herself having a partner.

* just be patient with her and let her come to you.

* loves hugging you from behind

* if you’re with her at the last drop, she has her arm around you constantly. if it’s not that, she’s having you sit on her lap.

* she isn’t the jealous type at all. she knows that if you’re with her, if she choses you, she has nothing to worry about. if your loyalty to her falters, you’ve got a big storm coming.

* while she isn’t jealous, oh, boy, is she possessive. very big difference between those two. she’s also fiercly protective.

* got a creep flirting with you at the bar? she lets it be known that you are taken very quickly. is at your side in a second flat, arm wrapping around you all while staring daggers at the perpetrator.

* this woman is a capital F Flirt. will talk you up one side and down the other like it’s nothing. if you’re just someone she happens to lock eyes with at the bar, you guys could go back and forth with flirting and banter.

* BUT if you and sev have been together for a bit flirting can get her flustered from time to time. you know *just* what to say to her to make her short circuit a little bit. no one can get under her skin the way you can. /pos

* calls you baby. if you’re a femme, she calls you her femme. also fond of calling you “pretty baby”.

* surprisingly soft lips.

* kissing her feels like a dream. slow and sweet and sensual. complete with a warm hand on the side of your face or settled on your hip.

* sevika prefers a partner who can take care of themselves. after all, she’s a busy woman and she can’t always come to your rescue.

* her giving love language is acts is service. need something fixed? in classic butch fashion, she’s absolutely got you covered. do you drink coffee or tea in the morning? she’s got a cup ready for you in the morning, *just* the way you like it. she’ll do anything for you when she’s got the time.

* her receiving love language? words of affirmation. she likes to know that you think she’s *good*. that she’s doing a good job and that you see that.

* loves having her hair played with and her scalp massaged. if you have long nails it’s like a dream for her.

* would be so fucking whipped for you. you’re on her mind all the time. smiles when little things make her think of you. memorizes every little detail about you every chance she gets.

* actions over words. don’t expect crazy love letters or monologues about how much you mean to her. she shows how much she loves and cares for you almost entirely through actions.

* most likely wakes up before you and sits there for a little bit just to memorize every tiny little feature about your face. she never wants to forget what you look like.

* she doesn’t have a type. like, at all.

nsfw

* stone top. there. i said it. no questions. no ifs, ands, or buts.

* nipple piercings 🙈.

* oh, she is eating that thang. this woman is a munch. she would know just how to lick or suck you to make you come before you know it. it’s a very personalized experience.

* she learns you inside and out. knows every. little. thing that makes you tick.

* vocal. like, as in, she talks. she’s dirty about it too. all “oh, yeah? you like that baby?”, “be good for me, i know you can take it”, “mmm, taste so fuckin’ good for me” or “i know what’s good for you, now fucking take it”. she talks you through it every time.

* kisses it after she eats it. :)

* weewooweewoo WE GOT A MAN HANDLER OVER HERE!!!! she will move you every which way, any way she needs you to be. if you’re flexible, she absolutely has fun with that.

* has a collection of straps. different strokes for different folks, am i right?

* will sex you with sensual r&b playing in the background.

* touching on one of her receiving love languages being words of affirmation …

* she loves to be praised.

* it’s something she would never explicitly ask you to do. it’s a subtle thing.

* it’s in the way she short circuits when you tell her how good she’s doing, how good she makes you feel. you can tell she likes that, knowing that she is good for you, in the way her hands tremble or her hips stutter or, if she’s going down on you, the way her eyes go soft.

* she will fuck you senseless and then be so, so sweet on you after. makes sure you’re taken care of, that there’s something for you to drink, has towels ready for you incase you don’t feel like showering for a while after you finish. seriously, it’s like two different people.

okay thats it. i am obsessed with this woman and just wanted to share some headcanons i had for her while i finish up a fic i’m trying to write🎠.

cant believe my first writing here was some random hcs but whatever!!!

requests currently open for multiple fandoms, including arcane :).

dividers by cafekitsune

[inlovewithladies]

Nerdy Abby headcanons!

I love nerdy abby so much this needed to be done. this is college au btw.

GENERAL

definately majors in kinesiology with a minor in biology

Color codes her stuff like she had OCD

when she gets to do lab stuff she gets all giddy like a kid in a candy store

since shes all buff and stuff i feel like she'd try new protein powder or bars and rank them based off taste and effectiveness

i know for a fact in my heart of hearts she loves star trek. like she has 3 posters in her room and figurines on her shelf

lives off of energy drinks especially if she has a test and needs to cram studying but doesnt tell anyone coz she preaches that theyre bad for u and doesnt wanna seem like a hypocrite

watched neon genesis evangelion

her laptop has a bunch of stickers on it IN A RELATIONSHIP

her love language is acts of service

she took literal ages to confess so she tried to communicate her feelings through actions. ie: carrying your books, walking you to class or back to your dorm

btw the confession wasnt smooth at all. she blurted it out in the middle of a study session with you, palms sweaty and shaky. 'hey, so um... i like.. like you, like a lot- wait can i start over?"

your first kiss was right then and there, she froze for a solid five seconds but when you pulled away she was cheesing so hard

even if your doing a different major than her, she'll offer to proof-read your homework just because she can (and she likes it)

enjoys making your lunch (i also feel like shed be one of those people who disguise broccoli in brownies)

at first she was kinda shy about physical touch dont get me wrong, she loves her muscles but she also doesnt wanna hurt you by accident. like if shes hugging you shell ask 'too tight?' before settling in

at some point she wanted to cut her hair but ultimately kept it long since you loved to braid it so much

I KNOW FOR A FACTTT she follows the sidewalk rule like her life depends on it

if your leaving the dorm (coz ofc your sharing it now) she watches out the window for a min to make sure your good wherever ur going.

if ur sleeping in the same bed, in winter shes amazing but in summer your probably gonna wanna sleep on the couch coz that woman is a human heater

NSFW

she talks a big game but gets completely flustered when it comes down to it

SOFT DOMMM

doesnt matter if its the 50th time shes seen you naked, shes reacting like its the first. always mutters a lil 'goddamn' when the bra comes off

i feel like shes a boob kinda girl

only had one other experience before you (ow*n) but she never really enjoyed it

reads up on the female body and how to illicit more extreme orgasms and follows it to the letter until the one time she got way too lost in the pussy and went off-script, suckling at your clit like a baby getting breastfed. you ended up cumming super hard and she decided to perchance do what she felt in the moment next time.

super attentive to your reactions, if you seem to particularly like something she'll log it into her brain like data for next time

careful with her strength but if you tell her you want it rough, your gonna get rough so be prepared

if shes strapping you down, she ends up lifting you somehow without noticing, lifting your hips off the bed, your legs hooked over her arms while she pounds you against the wall.

likes having you on top too though, especially if shes tired. she'll happily lay back and grip your hips, letting her hands occasionally drift to your tits.

if your both up to it, she'd also be happy to film the two of you having sex. of course shed never share it, just save it for if your apart during a long night.

has a thing for nasty tongue kissing while she thrusts into you

shes got a sensitive spot right under her left ear, kissing it is like a button to get her flustered

loves it when you scratch her back, matter of fact, the next day she'll purposely wear a tank top with the back kinda cut out iykwim so people can see the marks

isnt meticulous about shaving so she has a bit of a bush, not that you mind

if shes feeling subby, she'll let you tie her wrists lightly while you eat her out or finger her or whatever you wanna do to her

HATES getting edged. may i repeat she HATES being edged.

overstimulation on the other hand... especially if shes stressed or something. your girl is just so smart her brain just needs a break from thinking for a while

loves when you eat her pussy while making her keep eye contact with you

AFTERCARE

if she was submissive, she's like a pile of mush after sex, mumbling shit and shed grab you if you try to leave the bed.

lay with her for a little bit then gently guide her up with you and clean her up in the bathroom

likes to have her hair washed after sex

she definately sweats a lot after sex especially if she was strapping so she needs to have a shower either way

'was that okay? did i hurt you? gimme a minute ill get you some water- or do you wanna wash first?'

likes having you in the tub with her so she can hold you against her chest from behind while she kisses your temple.

after that you guys sleep like babies

A/N if you couldnt tell i rlly love abby anderson

[madebycloud]

Our Little Secret

jinx/powder x female reader — 𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭

summary: silco has a strict rule about his daughter, jinx - no dating until college. the problem? you've been secretly dating her for a while now. OR 5 times silco almost caught you together and 1 time he actually did. warnings/themes: fluff, 5 + 1 (kinda 4+1)…, secret relationship, silco is so gullible /j, pov switch, michael words: 9.6k

Silco has always had very strict standards.

He's strict about maintaining his power. He doesn't put up with nonsense. He isn't afraid to get his own hands dirty. And he's extremely protective of his daughter, Jinx.

And above all else? He has one very simple rule.

No dating until she's in college.

...unfortunately, your girlfriend has a habit of not really listening.

—

( 1 )

It's a weekend afternoon, you and Jinx are supposed to be studying together.

And you are studying... for approximately 5 minutes before Jinx starts peppering kisses along your cheek. That then devolves into her shifting to sit in your lap, straddling your hips, her arms wrapped around your neck.

“We shouldn't-” you protest, pushing her off your lap “-Jinx...we're supposed to be studying.”

Jinx trails her lips along the side of your face, pressing little kisses on your jawline. She makes one of her soft hums, and her mouth settles near your ear. “We can study later... can't we?”

If you could just study for 10 more minutes, maybe you can get an hour of actual studying done. “But we need to study. Your grade could depend on it.”

“Aww, are you worrying about my grades?”

“Of course I am. I know how hard it is for you to keep up in some classes.”

She pokes you in the ribs. “I thought you were my girlfriend? don't you want to be more romantic and less... responsible-y?”

You gently nudge her away and try to focus on the textbook in your hands. Unfortunately, Jinx is far too stubborn. She grabs the textbook and tosses it away, then she buries her face into your neck, giggling.

You sigh, defeated, settling your hands on her waist. “I swear, you're the most troublesome girlfriend imaginable.” 

“I just want you to pay attention to meeeeeeeeeee.” Jinx pouts and starts whining in that tone that she knows you can't resist. “I don't wanna study. I just want cuddles. You're comfier than this bed.”

“Is that why you're sitting here, distracting me? because you want more attention from me?”

“I'm always wanting your attention. It's my second favorite thing.”

“And what's your first favorite thing?”

“Can you guess which thing I like the most, love?”

You narrow your eyes. “Hmmm is it food?”

“Are you joking?”

“Why? you do eat a lot of it,” you tease, and before she can punch you, you grab her around the waist and roll over on the bed, pinning her down to the mattress.

Jinx gasps and then immediately starts laughing. Awwwwe, come on, you can hear her say, that's cheating!

You grin, leaning down to catch her lips in a quick kiss and she quickly tries to deepen it, but you pull away before she can do so.

“You're mean.” She tries to reach up and pull you closer. “Come back.”

“You're mean,” you argue. “Trying to distract me while-” 

There's a loud knock on the door, and then- “Jinx?” Silco's voice filters in from the other side of the door.

Jinx pulls away and goes completely rigid. “Uh- uhm-” She pushes you on your shoulders, causing you to hit the ground with a mphghfglgh sound, which Silco obviously did not hear.

“Jinx?” his voice comes through the door again. “Are you studying?”

Jinx rushes to sit on the bed, grabbing the first textbook that she can find, then pretends to read it. “Hi dad!” she calls out, opening her textbook to a random page. “I'm studying, I swear.”

“Can I come in?”

“No! I mean, yes. Yeah, sure, you, uh, go ahead.”

You quickly get up on your feet and sit on Jinx's desk chair, trying to look like you're studying. You smooth out your clothing and make your hair look less disheveled. Silco doesn't need to see you look like you were making out with his daughter 5 seconds ago.

You only have a few precious seconds to compose yourself before the door creaks open.

“Afternoon,” Silco greets and walks into the room. “Just wanted to check in on you, see how you were doing, how you're studying.”

“Yup. Studying, we're totally studying.” She lifts the textbook up, and there's a page about Newtonian physics that Jinx never had interest in until now. 

Silco looks between you and Jinx, and you see him narrow his eyebrow slightly, probably wondering why the room is so damn quiet. “...Uh huh.”

Jinx smiles with too much teeth. “Yup! just cramming in some last minute studying.”

He hums and turns his gaze to you. You try to pretend to be as interested in a book of...math equations. “What about you?” he asks, addressing you. “Not slacking off, I hope.”

You hastily set the math book down and turn to face Silco, giving a small smile. “No, sir, I'm not. Just doing some calculus and some physics.”

“Good,” he says with a single nod. “Anything either of you needed help in?”

You and Jinx say “no” at the same time, a little too loudly.

Silco doesn't seem to notice the hint of desperation. He just smiles. “Alright, I'll leave you to-” Silco pauses as he reaches the door and turns back around, looking at the two of you again.

Oh shit. Does he know?

“...I made food. I suppose the two of you could take a break? Maybe in...ten minutes or so?”

Relief hits you.

“Yeah, yeah, good idea. Absolutely, uh, I'm famished-” she sets the textbook down on her bed “-We'll definitely come down in ten.”

It took everything in you just not to collapse from sheer nervousness. “Yeah, ten minutes,” you echo. “Thank you, sir.”

He gives the both of you another smile and then finally leaves.

You both stay there in complete silence for a few seconds before looking at each other. Your eyes meet Jinx's.

“HOLY SHIT, that was way too close for comfort.” She sighs. “You okay? I didn't push you too hard, did I?”

“I'm fine.” You rub your back, where it's definitely going to be sore. “I'm still alive.” 

Jinx gets off the bed and walks over to you, standing between your legs. She then cups your cheek with both hands and tilts your head up. “Sorry...” 

You close your eyes, sighing as she rubs your cheek with her thumb. “Mhm, it's okay.” You rest your hands on her hips. “Now, we need to get downstairs in 10 minutes for that food Silco made... so that means we have 10 minutes to actually study.” 

“Nooooo, I don't wanna study.” She squeezes your cheeks enough to make your mouth pucker up. You groan, but it just makes her smile.

“Yes, we need to study.” You try to pry her hands off your cheeks, but she uses both of hers to keep them in place. “Okay, so what about this… If you get a perfect score on the quiz tomorrow, I'll give you a hundred kiss-”

“-DEAL!” 

Damn. 

You really must have tapped into a jackpot for her to respond like that.

—

( 2 )

You stand in the shadows at Jinx's back door, knocking softly. You even brought a bag of food just to make yourself seem less suspicious, hoping it would look like you're here to make a delivery instead of sneaking into the house for... 

...other reasons.

After a few moments, the door opens, and-

There Jinx is, standing with her hair damp. 

“Ugh what are you doing here?”

“Hey.” You lift up the bag of food in your hands. “I brought some food. Thought you'd be hungry.”

Jinx snorts, then slams the door shut right in your face.

...it's that time of the month.

Which explains... well, everything, really.

Her grumpy morning mood. Her constant irritability. Those mood swings that left you wondering what you did wrong. And of course, her reaction when you brought over the food.

You knock on the door again, patiently waiting to be let in. “Love?”

No response. You're very certain she's ignoring you on purpose.

You stand there awkwardly for a while, shifting the weight between your feet.

Maybe you could try again? maybe knock again? see if she changes her mind...but then again, maybe you'd be pushing your luck. It's probably better to give her some space.

Still, the thought of being ignored without knowing why is irritating.

You give it another minute, before trying to knock again. Then you wait for her to, hopefully, please open it again, and after a few moments, the doorknob finally turns.

Jinx slowly opens the door, just barely letting the door open halfway, just enough to show her face. “...what did you bring?”

“Your favorite,” you respond. “Jollibee?”

Her irritation visibly softens when she sees the logo on the paper bag. “Chicken joy with extra rice, yum burger, and coke float?”

You could always remember her favorite order. You've made it a point to remember since you first started dating. “Yep.”

She looks at the food in your hand, then she tries to grab the paper bag, but you pull it just out of her reach. 

“Kiss first.”

Jinx scoffs, but she relents, leaning forward to press a quick kiss on your lips. It lasts only a second before she breaks away, holding her hand out to take the bag of food.

“There, you got your stupid kiss,” she mutters, “now give me the food.”

You pull the bag away, grinning. “Nope. I have a question.”

“What now?”

“Are you mad at me?” you ask.

“A little...”

“Ohhh, sooo, is that why you slammed the door shut in my face?”

“Hmm, maybe.”

“Any reason you're mad at me?”

“I dunno, maybe ask the one friend?” She shrugs. “You know, that one with the glasses who always spends her time drooling over you.”

Huh?

Who the hell is she talking about?

You open your mouth to ask when-

Jinx's hand suddenly grabs the bag of food from your hand, and she heads inside the house without bothering to wait for you, leaving the door open behind her.

You rack your brain for any recent interactions she might have been referring to, but you don't remember anyone giving you that much attention. Did this person exist? she was just messing with you, wasn't she?

“Wait!” you call out, stepping inside and closing the door shut. “What do you mean, the one with the glasses?”

Jinx ignores you and sits down at the table. She starts grabbing food from the paper bag and setting stuff down in front of herself, making a point of not looking at you.

Ugh. How could she just ignore you like this?

“Jinx.” You approach and sit down next to her. “Can we at least talk about it?”

She glances up to look at you, then she proceeds to shove an entire fried chicken drumstick in her mouth (just to spite you... probably).

And it goes like that for the next few minutes.

She chews her food and drinks her coke float, and every time you're about to open your mouth to say something, she makes another obnoxiously loud noise.

You really hate it when she gives you the silent treatment. Though you know better than to push it, since pushing her when she's in a mood like this doesn't usually go well.

“You know what I hate the most?” 

You lean back, sighing. “What?”

“I hate it when you let that friend of yours hang around you like a puppy. I hate the way she looks at you. All those little smiles and flirty glances-” She stops to take a bite. “-Whenever you're in the same room, her eyes are always glued to you. Like- like she's not even subtle about it!”

“And how would you know that?”

“I notice.”

“Is that a bad thing?”

Jinx turns to glare at you and kicks your shin. “You don't even notice when she looks at you.”

“Why would I? I'm focused on you.”

Jinx looks away, her cheeks turning pink. “Yeah, you better be focused on me...” Her expression quickly hardens again. “But that's beside the point! I swear, she's so - UGH - fucking annoying!”

You smirk at the words that came out of her mouth, and you brush some stray hair out of her face, hoping to grab her attention, but she just looks away. “Are you... jealous?”

She smacks your hand away. “Shut up. I'm mad at you, remember?” She stabs at a piece of her chicken. “I'm not jealous. I mean, why would I be jealous of her?”

You try to keep a straight face. “I don't know. You tell me.”

“I'm not jealous!” 

You pause just for a moment to admire her face, the way her eyebrows scrunch up, the redness of her cheeks, her little pouty lips...

God, she's so pretty, cute, adorable, and... and... 

Jinx scoffs, noticing that stupid look on your face. “Oh, you think this is funny, huh???” She pokes your side. “Am I amusing?”

“No, no, no, I'm sorry boss.”

Jinx rolls her eyes at the name. She eats the rest of her fried chicken and sets the empty carton aside. She opens the wrapper of the burger, smells it, then lifts it up to her mouth. “Want one?” 

“No, I ate before I came over.”

She lowers the burger, only to lift it back up and- “Open.”

“Seriously?”

“Pfft, don't get used to it...just consider yourself lucky that I'm in a generous mood.”

You open your mouth and then-

She shoves the burger in, forcing you to take a bite. 

The burger is certainly messier than it should be, with cheese and sauce spreading over your lips, dripping down to your chin. You swallow the hamburger, then let out a small burp. “...could have been a little gentler on the first bite, you know.”

Jinx grabs a napkin from the table and wipes the sauce off your lips. “You should be grateful that I fed you. It's more than what you deserve, considering you have another girl hanging around you all the time.”

“You keep saying that, but you still can't tell me how I'm supposed to know if she's staring at me-”

With no warning and no time to react, Jinx's hand grabs you by the jaw, and suddenly your vision flashes pink as her lips crash into yours.

Her kiss is rough, aggressive, hungry, forceful, demanding; taking your bottom lip between her teeth, fingers digging into the side of your jawline.

It's not like you mind. You're quick to match her energy. Your hands reach for her waist as you lean forward to try and deepen the kiss.

But then, just as quickly, Jinx pulls away, her breathing heavy and fast. “That-” your girlfriend licks her lower lip, “-that's what I think about every time I see that other girl looking at you.”

...

That kiss definitely shut you up.

The words that were on your tongue suddenly vanished, replaced with a single brain cell bouncing around in your head doing absolutely nothing. 

“Uhhhhh...”

She pats you on the cheek before continuing to eat her burger as if nothing happened. “You were being annoying. Had to shut you up somehow.”

You blink and rub your face, clearing the fog that set in after the kiss. “Well- Ahem - that was... that was certainly one way to do it.”

Jinx shrugs and grabs the coke float, sipping on it. “So-” she sets the coke float down, “-now that I've given you something to shut up, I expect you not to bother me for the rest of the day.”

“Wait-”

“-Nope. I'm still irritated right now. My cramps are acting up. I'm not in the mood for you to annoy me and be all, y'know, sweet and lovey-dovey.”

“Oh come on-”

“-UGH look, I'm mad, I'm cranky, and I'm in pain. I just want to eat my food and sleep for the rest of the day,” she mutters. “Now go home.”

You frown. “Why can't I just stay here and wait with you-”

“-Because I prefer being in peace and quiet for now.”

“I can be quiet.”

Jinx huffs through her nose. “When I'm not irritated, we can talk, alright?”

“Fine,” you concede, standing up from the chair. “Will I see you tomorrow, then?”

Jinx nods and trails after you towards the backdoor. “Yes. Maybe. Don't come over before 9 PM, though. Dad is going to be here.”

“Will do.”

You start to step outside, and then she calls out.

“Hey.”

“Hm?” You turn back around.

“Before you go…” Jinx then walks closer and grabs a fistful of your shirt before leaning in and kissing your cheek. “I'm still mad at you, but-” she pauses, letting go of your shirt “...I love you.”

With that, she pushes you out the back door and closes it in your face.

And she left you on your own, you're stuck standing there wondering what exactly just happened. 

She was mad at you, then she kissed you, then she was mad again, and then she was kind of sort of but not really mad, and then she just up and ended the whole thing by saying that she loved you. 

What the hell is with her today?

“Jinx! I'm home.”

“Shiiiiit.” She hurriedly unlocks and pushes open the front door. “Heeeey, Dad.”

“Who was the person just now? the one who jumped over our fence?” Silco asks, walking past her and setting his suitcase down on the coffee table.

“Uhhh…” Jinx closes the door and then turns around to face her dad, laughing nervously. “Nobody. Maybe.”

“Doesn't seem like nobody,” he says. “I could have sworn I caught a glimpse of someone leaving when I was pulling up.”

“Oh, that…” She looks at the back door. “Maybe you're just tired, yeah?”

“...right.” Silco walks into the kitchen and stares at the empty containers still on the table. “You got food from Jollibee?”

Jinx sighs in relief as Silco focuses on the food instead. “Yeah, I just kind of had a sudden craving. Thought about ordering some delivery.”

“Hmmm I can't blame you. These do taste pretty good.”

She nods and starts to head up the stairs. “I'm gonna go lie down...gonna take a nap.”

She can hear her dad's response from the kitchen. “Alright, have a good rest.”

Jinx dashes up the stairs, trying not to make it obvious how panicked she is. The less he knew about you being here earlier, the better.

She heads towards her room and shuts her door.

She kinda maybe-sorta regrets sending you away... but a part of her is still slightly mad at you.

Just slightly.

Jinx grabs a large, oversized monkey plushie from the corner of her room, then falls back onto her bed. She presses her face into the soft fur of the toy, scrunching her nose up.

As much as she loves her stuffies, it can't quite fill that gap of not having you around. You know, you're a lot warmer than this stupid monkey, and she'd much rather have you around than this dumb toy.

—

( 3 )

You tiptoe across the yard towards the house, trying to avoid any broken twigs or leaves and making sure your footsteps are as soft and light as a mouse.

You slowly look around, just to make sure that all the lights are absolutely turned off in the house.

The coast is clear? Check.

You then grab a smooth pebble, testing the shape and weight in the palm of your hand.

This should do the trick.

You aim carefully, with a certain amount of precision and a touch of confidence. You toss the pebble at the window, hoping with all your might that the thud of the rock will reach her ears—and it does.

Immediately, you hear rustling in the room on the upstairs floor. Bingo, you got her attention.

There's a series of footsteps, and then the window opens, revealing the face of a very annoyed but also pretty, gorgeous, beautiful girl.

Jinx whispers down at you from the window. “What are you doing-”

You quickly gesture for her to shut up and keep her voice down.

“What?”

You shush her again and motion for her to come outside. Jinx's eyes narrow, but she seems to get the message, because after a few more moments of awkward staring at each other, her expression relaxes and your girlfriend disappears from the window.

Not too long after, the back door opens, then Jinx carefully slips out. She's dressed in a tank top and shorts with her hair messily brushed. She closes the door behind her as quietly as possible.

“You're lucky I actually have the decency to stay awake most nights.” She crosses her arms over her chest. “If it were my usual time, I would have been absolutely dead to the world.”

You snicker at her comment and raise a finger to your lips. “Keep it down. You're gonna wake up your old man.”

Jinx scoffs. “Thanks to you, I'll be up till the morning.”

“Come on... I'll make it up to you, okay?” You then wrap your fingers around hers.

She huffs, but she does allow you to take her hand. “You better.” Her expression then softens a bit when she sees you smile. “Seriously, what in the hell made this SO important that you had to come over at... 2 a.m.?”

“Couldn't sleep.”

“Couldn't sleep or didn't want to sleep?”

You shrug. Either answer wouldn't be a lie. “Does it matter?”

“...and you just so happen to need me as a source of entertainment?”

You shrug again, and you tug on her hand, lightly pulling her closer. “More like... I just missed you.”

Jinx snorts, but you can tell the words are starting to get to her. You let go of her hand before wrapping your arms around her waist. 

“Who's the clingy one now, hm?” she asks, then brings her arms around your neck.

“Still you, but I guess I can't complain.”

Jinx wrinkles her nose. “Very funny.”

“It is funny.” You press a kiss to her cheek, her temple, her forehead, just to hear her scoff. “Love you.”

“Sap.” Jinx nuzzles her face into your chest, hiding her smile from you. “...I love you too.”

It's always so damn satisfying whenever you get her to surrender.

“Do you want to come in? it's cold out here..”

You shake your head. “I'm fine, just here to see you anyway.”

You stay wrapped up in each other for what feels like hours, not moving, not saying anything, and not even caring that the night is probably the coldest it's been in months.

It's only when Jinx shivers that you finally remember where you are.

“You should probably go.” 

You know you're on borrowed time. Any minute now, you're risking Silco catching you both.

So you reluctantly let go of her, and she backs away. 

“Go on,” you urge, “Go back before you get sick.”

Jinx rolls her eyes. “I won't get sick. I'm tougher than that.”

“I'm sure you are, but it's still cold out, so-”

“-I'll live.”

“Just please go back inside.”

Jinx rubs her arms to try to get warm. “Alright, just... be careful walking back, okay?”

You reach out to try to fix her hair, but stop yourself when her eyes narrow. “I'll be fine. Don't worry about me.”

She bites her lip. “I'll try not to.”

You both just stare at each other for a few more moments, the cold night air surrounding you and making you shiver a bit.

“This is hard to do without being able to kiss you.”

“I know.” You lean closer, pressing a kiss on her cheek. “See you at school?”

Jinx returns the gesture, giving you a kiss on the cheek as well. You find yourself wanting to melt on the spot. “I guess... yeah.”

“Good night.”

“Mhmm, nighty.”

She finally turns around and disappears back into the house.

With one last glance at the house, you turn and creep back to your own, a smile on your face.

“You're still awake? Isn't it past 2 in the morning?”

Jinx nearly had a heart attack when she hears a familiar voice. She whirls around to see... Silco, standing at the top of the stairs, staring at her with a frown.

“Uhm-” she tries to come up with something that sounds believable “...just need to pee...”

“Go back to sleep then. You have school in the morning, remember?”

“Yes, Dad.” 

She quickly pads up the steps and past him, feeling her father's stare burning against her back. She doesn't stop until she's inside her room, door closed.

Jinx was lucky Silco didn't hear the creak of the back door or hear the footsteps outside. If he had known about your relationship...

She approaches the window, and then peeks through the curtains. She spots you sneaking back through the darkness, and she smiles to herself.

She's safe. You're safe. Everything worked out... for now anyway.

—

( 4 )

You drive into the city, parking by the sidewalk a block away from her home. “Guess I'll see you tomorrow?” 

You're a little exhausted from your “school project” (which is honestly just a date to the movie theater). You've both grown pretty good at using the excuse of a “group project” and “research” to spend time together.

Jinx turns to you and pouts. “Where's my goodbye kiss?”

You roll your eyes. “Fine, come here, you big baby.”

Jinx leans over the center console, cupping your chin with one hand. “Thank youuu~” she coos, before planting a soft kiss on your lips.

“There, satisfied?” you say as she leans back away. You try not to let your expression show just how much you're going to miss that feeling already. 

“That should hold me for the night.”

“Okay, now get out of the car so I can go home.”

She snorts and opens the door. “Dick.” She steps out, closes the door, then stands on the sidewalk with one hand on her hip. 

You roll your window partially down, glancing over at her. “I love you.”

“Mhm, don't forget to text me when you get home.”

“I'll remember, don't worry.”

“You better. I don't wanna think you're dead in a ditch somewhere-”

“-Yes, yes, boss. I'll be fine, I promise.”

Jinx huffs and shakes her head. “Bye, dumbass.” She blows you a cheeky kiss and turns around to run down the block towards her house.

Jinx enters her house and sees Silco sitting on the armchair in the living room. She realizes that he was probably waiting for her to come back.

“Ah, you're home,” he says, “how was your project?”

Jinx sighs, playing it off casually. “Um, it was fine,” she mutters, and she tries to walk past Silco and make a beeline for her room.

“Is that a new necklace?”

…shit.

She glances over her shoulder, one hand reaching up to touch the new necklace that you had just bought for her today. She quickly lowers it and tucks it further under her shirt.

“Oh, it's not new…” She looks rather guilty as she lies. “I'm just...not wearing it every day.”

“Really? That's odd. I don't seem to recall seeing you wear it before.”

“Yeah, I just decided to... start wearing it more lately.”

“Well, either way... looks expensive. Where'd you get it?”

Jinx winces at the question but tries to hide it. “Some thrift store,” she lies once more. “Anyway, I have homework to do. Bye, Dad.”

Silco arches an eyebrow. “Alright, but don't forget to eat dinner.”

“Right, okay, yeah, Bye!” Jinx quickly heads upstairs to her room and quickly closes the door to her bedroom.

Now safe and alone in her room, she slides down the door, sighing. She takes the necklace again, rubbing it between her fingers.

“Love you too, doofus,” she whispers to herself, thinking about you.

—

( 5 )

It was kind of a rule in your neighborhood that everyone had to complete a certain amount of volunteer hours. You weren't entirely happy about that, but you didn't really hate the idea of helping your community.

Since you and your girlfriend often had trouble arranging time to see each other, the city's weekly volunteer cleanups became a pretty standard thing for the both of you.

There's a… small problem, though. Jinx wasn't the only one who had this little schedule.

Her dad also had to do the cleanups.

It had been a fairly simple plan at first. You've been planning to meet up with Jinx in secret for a few hours between volunteering sessions. You'd be able to spend some time together, talk without getting interrupted, maybe… make out a little bit.

But now? now that plan was fucking thrown to hell, seeing as how her father was there as well, picking up trash along with the two of you.

You pick up an entire plastic bag filled with trash and start to lug it to one of the bigger garbage bins on the sidewalk. Your back feels like it's about to break.

You turn around and spot Jinx a few feet away. She has a bag overflowing with junk in her hands, and she's also using a stick to prod a piece of trash that's stuck on the curb.

She looks at you and smiles. “Hey.”

You try to smile back, but you know your back is about to burst. “Need some help with that?”

Jinx shakes her head, then uses her stick to whack the piece of trash off the sidewalk. “Nah, I got it.”

You manage to toss the garbage bag into the nearest bin, panting a bit afterwards. Geez, were these bags always this heavy?

You look around and see that most of the street has been cleaned. Jinx's dad is also nearby, picking up a few more pieces of junk on the sidewalk.

Silco picks up another plastic bottle with a pair of rubber gloves, placing it in the bag by his feet. He glances up and spots you two nearby. “Oh, are you two finished?”

You smile at him, then nod. Seems like your little street is mostly free of trash.

Silco's gaze flits over to his daughter. “How about you, Jinx?”

Jinx gives the stick one more whack on the sidewalk, making the last piece of trash fall into the bag. She then stands up, wiping her forehead with the back of her hand. “There!”

Just then, an old lady (the head of this neighborhood's community service group) approaches the three of you.

She smiles and looks at all of the full garbage bags nearby. “I see you three have been hard at work. We've prepared some food for the volunteers over at my home around the corner. Why don't you come join us?”

You're about to say, “Hell yes, I deserve food for this kind of work-”

But before you can get to say anything, Silco turns to the old lady and raises his hand politely, “Thank you, but you don't need to-”

“Nonsense,” the old lady interrupts, “You three have been working so hard, and it's already lunchtime! The least we can do is offer you some food, right?” She smiles at Silco, then she also turns her attention to you and Jinx. “Besides, these young people definitely deserve a rest. They look exhausted. I'm sure a little food wouldn't hurt.”

Silco sighs. “Very well, then.” He looks at you and Jinx before gesturing forward. “Let's go.”

The old lady smiles and starts to hobble towards her home. The three of you follow.

After a couple-minute walk, the old lady's house is only a few doors down the street. There are already around 10 other people or so inside her house, eating and talking amongst each other. They probably all wanted a nice meal after doing a lot of work.

You greet them with a few waves, a few smiles, a few introductions. You then help yourself to some fried fish and steamed vegetables, and manage to find a small spot on the floor to sit. Jinx is sitting next to you, while Silco takes a spot on a nearby armchair.

You eat silently, listening to the other conversations around you. People are talking about mundane things, what they did this morning, a movie they saw, the current news, the weather, et cetera.

Some of them ask you, Jinx, and Silco a few questions, wanting to know you each a little better.

Silco seems to be politely responding to whatever questions are being asked of him. Jinx, on the other hand, just stays quiet and keeps eating her food.

However, there is one that you and Jinx really aren't a fan of being asked.

“Oh, my dear child, you are so beautiful,” the woman on the opposite side of the room is talking to Jinx. “Are you dating anyone?”

Jinx's spine straightens a bit, and glances at you for a split second. You can practically see the panicked look in her eyes, as if trying not to spill the secret to her father. “Um, no haha…” She laughs awkwardly. “I'm... not seeing anyone right now.”

Then it starts.

The woman turns to the side and calls out. “Michael, sweetie, come here! There's someone I want you to meet!”

Michael, an 18-year-old guy who's standing there awkwardly, still chewing on a piece of bread. He swallows his food and then walks over.

“Yeah, mom... what did you want me for-”

The lady turns to Jinx and presents her son. “My dear, this is my son, Michael. He's 18, and graduating this year. Isn't my baby so handsome?”

You can feel an overwhelming urge to resist rolling your eyes, resisting the urge to say “Oh for fuck's sake”, and resisting the urge to just straight up punch this guy directly in his little Michael face.

Michael mutters something to himself before turning towards Jinx. “Hi. I'm, uh…” He looks at Jinx, and then he stutters again, his face turning bright red. “You're- you're pretty.”

Oh, he's totally a goner. You can watch his soul slowly leave his body as he stares at Jinx.

“Yeah, I'm in high school right now. I graduate this year. I study business and stuff…”

“Uh, I play football... but I don't want to play sports professionally or anything. Not really what I want to do…”

“I'm getting into MIT in the fall, so that's…”

You try to keep your attention on your food. You try to focus on eating the rather amazing, yummy, delicious food that was prepared. 

But seriously?

Seriously?

You look closely at them. Is he swooning over her? Is he checking her out? Did she just smile back at him? Why is she being so nice to him?

...

It's NOT like you're jealous. 

... 

Okay, so... maybe you are a LITTLE bit jealous. 

But you shouldn't be worried. She is your girlfriend. You don't have anything to worry about... right?

“You wouldn't mind if my son were to court your daughter, would you, Sil?”

You whip your head up so fast that you almost gave yourself whiplash.

What. The. Fuck.

“Court?” Silco repeats. He glances over at Jinx and then back at Michael's mother.

“Yes, I was thinking my son could start to court your daughter... see where that takes them? I think they'd make a fine couple.”

You expect Silco to be just like “Oh hell no. I'd never allow some punk to date my daughter, go suck a dick.” But instead...

Silco just nods and says, “I see. No, I wouldn't mind. I think they could be a... good match. Your son seems to be a hardworking person.”

...did he-

Did he...?

Did he just-

I wouldn't mind.

I wouldn't mind.

I wouldn't mind.

You're pretty certain you're suffering from heart palpitation. That, or you're having a literal, actual, real-life heart attack.

He actually AGREED? He's totally fine with that little Michael douche canoe to court Jinx?

WHY?

You thought he'd hate anyone dating his daughter. You thought he'd hate the idea of anyone getting with her. You thought he'd hate anyone trying to date her. That he'd hate the idea of anyone trying to court her.

But he gave Michael's mom's son a verbal blessing.

A blessing.

This is worse than a nightmare. This is literal hell. This is absolute bullshit.

You can't eat anymore. You've lost all appetite, to be honest. Everything seemed to go wrong today.

A hand touches your arm, and you turn to look to see Jinx trying to get your attention. “You alright...?”

NO.

Because why would you be alright?

You've just spent the last thirty minutes sitting through a conversation with an awkward teenager who can't even talk to women without stuttering, you've got a little punk-ass brat that's probably going to court your girlfriend, and now her dad just gave her the green light to do it.

This SUCKS.

“Yeah, of course.” You shrug. “I'm just... not that hungry anymore. Maybe I ate too much, I guess?”

Jinx looks at you for a few seconds before nodding. She must realize there IS something wrong, but she is smart enough not to point it out, especially in front of Silco. “Uh huh. Maybe you did. I guess I'm pretty full myself. So... there's that.”

Yeah. You're pretty full. Full of stress and rage and pure, absolute jealousy.

“Maybe we just need to walk it off?”

“Mhmm, that sounds like a good idea. We could walk off some more of the streets, see if there's anything we missed.” Jinx stands up, grabbing your plates, and then sets them on the counter.

You stand up as well, but you turn to Silco first, figuring you should at least tell him first. “Sir,” you greet. “Jinx and I are going to go walk around, take a walk. See if we missed anything around the town. Is that fine?”

Silco nods, glancing at Jinx. “As long as you're back in a bit. Don't want you two getting into any trouble.”

You force a smile on your face, and nod back. “Yes, sir. We'll be back in a bit.”

The smile drops as soon as you and Jinx step out of the house. The two of you walk silently down the same street you had cleaned earlier.

It's very awkward and very quiet. Normally, you'd be the one to break the silence first (you're not good with awkward tension), but this time... this time you're too mentally exhausted.

Jinx doesn't say anything either, just walking alongside you. Both of you pass the place where you first met the old lady earlier and continue walking down the sidewalk a few blocks farther.

It takes at least five more minutes before Jinx speaks. “Are you going to keep ignoring me?”

You feel a flash of guilt. That is not the vibe you wanted to give off. “No... I'm not ignoring you.” You then look down at the path in front of you. “I'm just... tired. Really, really tired.”

Her hand finds its way to your arm, fingers wrapping around it loosely. Jinx looks at you, and you notice some concern in her eyes. “Did I do something to upset you at all?”

Her words just make you feel even worse. “What? No... baby, I'm not mad. I swear.” 

“Then what is it? ...if it's not me, then what's bothering you?”

“I swear it's nothing. I'm just not in the mood, y'know?”

It must be pretty obvious that you're bullshitting, because she gives you a flat look. “You're acting weird.” She tugs your arm gently, wanting you to look at her. “You aren't yourself at all. Tell me, what's wrong?”

You stop walking. You turn your body to face her, sighing as you look into her eyes. “It's embarrassing.”

It sounds so stupid though, to say you're jealous of that Michael douche canoe? It seems so stupid, so petty, so childish. Even more childish of you to act so moody and upset over something so... simple.

It would be absolutely pathetic of you to say, “I don't like that guy, and I don't like the fact that your dad gave him the all clear to court you.” What kind of girlfriend would you sound like? jealousy is never an attractive look. 

“Are you jealous?”

“What?” You scoff. “As if.” She doesn't need to know you're completely envious of that douchebag. You turn your head and fold your arms, avoiding looking her in the eyes. 

“I knew it. You're jealous.”

You don't say anything, and she steps forward. She starts to unfold your arms that you have firmly crossed over your chest, gripping your hands in hers instead, her fingers lacing between yours.

“Babe?” 

It feels really shitty not being able to look her in the eyes. “Hm?”

“I love you.”

It's those three words that make whatever anger that you had just... disappear all at once.

Jinx lifts your intertwined hands to her face and she presses her lips against the backs of your knuckles. “I love you soooo soooo much. I only want you. Only you. You've got nothing to worry about, 'kay?”

How is it that easy for her to just instantly win you over? all she has to do is press her lips against your knuckles, say those words, and then suddenly the fire that was burning in your chest is totally doused.

Your shoulders slump, and you feel absolutely fucking whipped. “...okay.”

“Just okay?”

“Love you too.”

Jinx smirks, then releases your hands, only to snake her arms around your waist. “Y'know, you don't have to be jealous.”

You grumble at that, but you place your arms around her as well, pulling her a bit closer to you.

She rests her chin on your shoulder, and then hums into your ear. “Michael? Michael doesn't stand a chance. You have NOTHING to worry about.”

You look off to the side as she leans against you, your annoyance still slightly present. “He's probably trying to impress you. He's trying to be all smooth and-”

She laughs softly and interrupts your sentence. “You're worried about that?” She pokes your cheek. “I'm still yours even if you don't do anything.”

Even if you're still slightly annoyed, the corners of your lips lift a little. “Yeah, well-”

“-I don't care about him. I don't care about anyone. All I care about is you. Just you, and only you.”

Hearing her say that and knowing that she means it? It shoots right into your veins and makes you weak in the knees.

Jinx pulls away from you, grabbing your hand in hers before gently tugging you off down the sidewalk. “Come on, now. We told Silco we'd be back in a bit. Don't want to piss him off, now do we?”

You let her pull you along, fingers intertwined. 

Though your mood has improved, there's still a... little lingering part of you that wants to stay a bit sulky. Just so you can see her coax you out of your mood, coddle you a little, have her sweetly bring the smile back to your face.

You love being spoiled just a little bit (just a teensy tiny itsy bit).

—

( + 1 )

The streets are quiet and nearly empty at this time of night. You could have danced all night in the middle of the street or sung the most obnoxious pop tunes in existence, but it didn’t matter.

No one would see you. No one would hear you. Not a single soul to witness that moment, except for her.

Just you two, walking through the empty streets in a world that's all yours without a single soul to pay attention.

Jinx tugs on your arm. “I don't wanna go home, yet.”

“But we have school tomorrow,” you remind.

“Don't you wanna stay out here for longer?”

It's risky, but- “I do.”

She stops walking, tugging on your arm again. “Can we sit down for a bit?” she asks, eyeing the empty playground.

The nearby playground is empty too. No soccer mom with a baby strapped to her body. No teenagers trying to smoke cigarettes on the swingset. No children clamoring over the climbing equipment.

“Sure.”

She grins, then you both head towards one of the swingsets. Jinx releases your arm and sits down on one of the swings, her feet brushing the ground. You sit down on the swing next to hers, and start to swing softly. 

Jinx is strangely silent, quietly pensive.

“Penny for your thoughts?” 

Jinx hesitates, teeth digging into her bottom lip. “I kinda wanna ask you something.”

“Kinda?" you repeat. “So you kinda want to, or you wanna?”

Jinx narrows her eyes at you, then sticks her tongue out before sighing. “Okay...I want to ask you something.”

“Alright then, what is it?” You rest your feet on the ground to stop swinging and look at her. 

Jinx just stares down at her sneakers, kicking the dirt beneath her feet. “Is it...unfair, to you, I mean?”

Huh? “What do you mean?”

“This-” she gestures between the two of you “-the whole secret thing? Isn't it unfair to you?”

“Is this why you asked me to come over? to talk about this?”

She doesn't respond and just gives a frustrated shrug of her shoulders.

Her words then echo in your head. “Isn't it unfair to you?” Being forced to keep it a secret? To hide every touch, every word, every hint behind closed doors?

You pause to consider then take one more glance at her. 

She has this look of guilt, a look of shame.

No.

This isn't unfair.

You chose to date her, knowing all the risks. You knew the consequences of breaking the rules. You knew the risk of starting this thing with her.

And yet, you did it anyway. You kissed her, you touched her, you held her, you still love her, despite all of that.

You push yourself off the swing and move to stand between her legs, feeling her hands hold onto your waist. Jinx sighs, pressing her face into your stomach.

“No...I don't think it's unfair.”

Jinx finally looks up, meeting your gaze. The moonlight reflects off her eyes.

“Really. I don't.” You cradle her face with your hands. “It doesn't matter to me, whether we have to hide it or do this in secret or not. I'd still choose you. No matter the risk.”

She leans her cheek against your palm. “I just...i think-” she bites her lip again. “-I just don't want you to regret it. I don't want you to regret me-”

“I don't...I'd never regret you.” You run your thumb against her jaw, shaking your head. “I'm not going to regret you. I'm not going to regret us.”

Jinx's eyes soften. “Swear?”

“I swear on my life,” you promise, without hesitation.

“You really are something.” She grins and your grin matches hers. 

“It's getting late,” you say, letting go of her face. “Should probably go home.”

“Yeah, probably.” You step back and Jinx stands up from the swing. She takes hold of your hand again and swings your arms. “Walk me home?”

“I'd love to.”

Both of you walk out of the empty playground, heading back towards the sidewalk.

Jinx's hand feels so perfectly familiar. Every digit, every curve of your hand fits in place. You've held her hand a thousand times before, and you're going to do it a million times after this one.

You reach the front of her place, and she stops walking. Jinx furrows her brow, confused. Her father is supposed to be out of town, yet the lights are on at her house.

“You said your dad was out tonight.”

“He was... he's not supposed to be here until 11-”

That's when you hear the voice that you know all too well. “-Well, it appears I've come home a little bit early.” You both turn and see Silco standing behind you, hands behind his back. “I was looking for you.”

Silco walks a few steps closer to the both of you. He notices your joined hands followed by the fact that you are standing close together. “How long, exactly, has this been going on?”

Jinx fidgets, and she looks at the ground, her bangs hiding her face. You can tell that she's not going to answer, so you decide to answer for her.

“Since-”

But he speaks over you. “I'm asking her, not you.”

You shut your mouth immediately, gulping at the harsh tone.

Jinx swallows, fingers tightening around yours. “8 months.”

“And you never thought to tell me? After 8 months?”

“I'm sorry, Dad. I didn't think you'd approve-”

Silco sighs and glances at the ground before looking up again. “-I'm not angry, I'm...just disappointed. I just wish you could have told me. I would have understood.”

Jinx looks back at you, then back at him. “You would?”

“I have my own preferences for you... but at the very least, yes, I'd understand.”

She looks away. “Sorry.”

The wind picks up, and Silco eyes the darkening sky. “It's a bit cold out,” he says. “Go on, get inside.”

Jinx nods, letting go of your hand and you watch her walk into the house. She looks back over her shoulder and then mouths “I'm sorry” before she opens the door, entering inside.

The door clicks shut behind her, and...you're left alone with her father.

“Come on.” Silco turns around, motioning for you to go with him.

You don't really have a choice here (to be honest).

So you hesitantly follow him, silently walking next to him while he stares forward. Silco then leads you to a bench on the side of the house.

“Sit.”

You do as you're told, sitting down on the bench. Silco sits down next to you. You stare straight ahead, afraid to look at him.

“Jinx is… a lot of things. Smart, stubborn, clever, creative, and difficult. But even when she's hard to handle, I...” He trails off, sighing. “I still love her. I'll admit, I've spoiled her. I just want her to be safe. And in her own twisted logic, she thinks you're a threat to her safety.”

“Why would I be a threat, sir?”

Silco leans forward, setting his elbows on on his knees. “Because you're an unknown variable. A wildcard to me. She cares about you, more than she should. Anything that can cloud Jinx's rationality is a threat. If someone is a threat to her safety, they are a threat to me. So, if you're planning on ruining her life-” He turns to look at you. “I'll destroy you.”

“I would never,” you immediately say.

Silco hums at that, eyeing you up and down. He grabs a cigarette from his pockets and lights it with a lighter.“You care about my daughter, do you?” 

You nod, steeling your nerves.

“I see... If I asked you to leave her alone, to forget everything between you and her, to break it off and forget about her... what would you say?”

You square your shoulders and sit up straight. “I'm sorry, sir... but I won't. I won't leave her. I love your daughter, sir. I love Jinx. She means the world to me.”

Silco exhales a cloud of smoke, watching it float up into the air. “Why is that, hm? why do you deserve my blessing to be with my daughter?

You don't know what to say at first, yet words come out anyway. “Uh, I don't know if I could ever deserve your approval...If you don't think that I'm worthy or that I'm good enough, I don't think I'll be able to change your mind.But I'm serious about your daughter, sir. I'm not toying around or dating her as some kind of joke. I've been with Jinx for the past 8 months, and…I have no plans on stopping. I love your daughter, sir.”

There was no answer to your words, just silence. Then, you see a smile creeping to his lips. He clears his throat and says, “You should go home, kid. It's late now.”

You sit there, trying to figure out whatever the hell that smile means. “Sir, is...is Jinx in trouble-”

“-She's not in trouble. I just have a few things to talk about with her.”

It's clear that he's not going to budge, so you nod. “Good night, sir.”

Silco nods his head and stands up before walking towards the front door.

In a daze, you walk back to your own place.

What was the smile for? what is he going to say? is Jinx in trouble? is he going to forbid you both from dating? will Jinx have to cut you off?

But none of those questions will make a difference. Despite everything, you will never give up on her.

—

( bonus )

“I expect to see her home at a reasonable hour.”

“Of course, sir.”

“And I mean at eleven at the latest.”

“Eleven. Yes, sir.”

Jinx makes a face, rolling her eyes behind her father's back. “Ugh, Dad. It's prom. My friends aren't gonna go home that early.”

“Eleven, missy. I don't want you out too late.”

It's been a month since that night, and thankfully, things have been slowly getting better.Silco hasn't completely come to terms with you being with his daughter (yet), but at least he hasn't outright forbidden you from dating Jinx.

“I expect my rules to be followed, and if she's late, then you can't take her out anymore. Is that clear?”

You nod your head, a little too enthusiastically maybe. “Sir, I understand.”

“If anything happens-”

“-Nothing's going to happen, Dad!” Jinx steps in, looping her arm around yours. “I'll be fine.”

Silcho's eyes narrow. “...you better be.”

Jinx huffs. “Dad, I swear, we'll be fine.” She tugs on your arm. “Come on.” 

She starts to pull you away from the house, but Silco's voice stops you in your tracks.

“Stop a moment.”

Jinx groans but stops and turns towards her father. “What?” she asks, annoyed.

Silco turns to you. “Take care of my daughter.”

“I will, sir.”

Silco gives you a look and you straighten your back. “Alright then. Enjoy prom.” He pats Jinx on the head before walking back into his house.

Jinx waits until the door shuts behind her father and then she huffs. “I love him, but GOD he's so overprotective.”

You roll your shoulders and smile at her. “He just cares about you.”

“Yeah...but sometimes it's a little much. Like, I'm not a little kid anymore. I'm 18!”

“Ehh, he just wants you to be safe.”

“I get it, okay? but it's just...sometimes it's hard, y'know?”

“I know but...” You grab her hand, intertwining your fingers with hers. “...at least he hasn't stopped us from seeing each other.”

“Rigghhtt, he's been a little bit more lax. Well, that and you're sucking up to him.”

“Hey!”

“What?” She giggles when you elbow her on the side. “WHHAAT? It's true! You're all like, 'Yes sir! of course sir! yes sir!'” She mimic-yells in a deep voice. “Like you're a soldier who's being given orders!”

“I am not a- I'm being polite and respectful!”

“Suuuuuure you are.” She bumps her shoulder into yours.

“I am!”

“Uh huh. That's why you say yes to everything he asks.”

“Because I respect him. It's called being a good influence on you.”

“Ohhhhh, you're trying to be a good influence on me.” Jinx grins. “Pfft! as if you can get me to behave myself.”

You shrug, smirking. “I dunno. I think I have a pretty good track record.” 

You both share a laugh before walking towards the sidewalk.

“I promise, I'll have you home by eleven.”

“But eleven is so earlyyy.”

“Rules are rules.”

“Ohhh, so now you're siding with my dad?”

“Er, I did promise him.”

“...And here I thought you were supposed to be on MY side.” Jinx pouts. “What happened to all your love and loyalty to me? where did that go? hmmmm?”

“I still love you just as much as I did yesterday, you know that, but-” you say “-I'm just keeping my promise.”

She chuckles. “I think you just don't want to get in trouble with him.”

“That too.”

She shoves you with her shoulder, and you shove back. “Watch the dress, jackass!” She shoves your shoulder in return, giggling, when suddenly, a car horn interrupts the two of you. 

It's parked at the curb of the sidewalk, honking at the two of you. “Heeeey, love birds! Stop flirting like dorks, and get in!” You recognize the voice as belonging to Ezreal, a friend of Jinx's.

Ezreal is leaning out of the window with a cocky smile slapped on his face. Two other people are also inside the car. It's Lux in the backseat and her brother Garen driving the car.

“We weren't! we were-” you protest, but Jinx is already bounding towards the car.

“We're coming, idiot!” Jinx laughs as she tugs you along.

Prom night was always meant to be enjoyable and stress-free... even if there was an overprotective dad involved.

You stumble after her as she basically yanks your arm in her haste to get to the car. She swings the door open and motions for you to sit down, forcing you to squeeze into the middle, between her and Lux.

The car then pulls away from Jinx's house, with her friends shouting and laughing out the window. 

Jinx lifts your hand up to her lips and gives it a quick peck, not letting you go for the rest of the night.

[dameronspector]

Philophobia

(PART 1)

Pairing: Joaquin Torres x Stark!Reader

Summary: Devastated by your father’s death and cutting yourself off from everyone, you are on the road of recovery, accompanied by your uncle Rhodey. After Rhodey has finally convinced you, you agree to reunite with Sam Wilson and help him with his tech. He introduces you to another techie nerd, named Joaquin Torres, for the first time. Will you let your phobia get in the way and push away your new found family and this beautiful boy? Or will you get better and let yourself be loved once again?

Warnings: Mentions of Death and Depression/Depressive episodes, Mentions of Panic Attacks, Abuse by a parent (not Tony), Weight loss due to stress, Nightmares, Some cursing, Fluff, Angst, Hurt/Comfort, Steve Rogers Slander- please don’t read this if that’s not something you’re looking for, Reader is sassy and a bit reserved because of The incident and because they’re a Stark, Reader has some phobias, Found family, also there’s a few references and hidden plots in this. 😁 (please keep in mind that I wrote this from my point of view as a south asian.)

Author’s note: I probably went overboard and this is very long + very self indulgent….but tony stark is the father who raised me and joaquin torres is my boyfriend so i Had to do this. ☺️ also lots of found family content with Rhodey, Sam and Bucky. Set around the time of TFATWS. Please let me know if there’s any changes to be made if I have written anything wrong.

series masterlist

Moving back to New York was extremely hard and painful for you ever since your dad passed away. That was the city that you were born and raised in and it had the ghosts of your father’s and family’s moments everywhere. But you told Pepper that you couldn’t handle living in that cabin anymore because 1. you were going stir crazy since you loved the hustle bustle of a city and 2. the depressive episodes were more frequent than ever.

You’d think living in your family cabin that has your father’s memories written across every wall would help you…but you’re a Stark. Ignoring your own problems and running away from emotions is kind of your specialty. Hereditary, even.

Pepper, bless her heart, told you that she’s happy you are trying to get back your life back on track and that she would always be there for you. Even if you called her Pepper, she’s always been your Mother.

Hardest part of it all was saying goodbye to Morgan. Little Morgan who was so attached to you and vice versa. She was too young to even process her father’s death, how was she supposed to understand why her elder sibling was never leaving their room? And now that same sibling was going too far away from their house. It took Pepper, Happy and you to console Morgan and she was finally ready to send you off–only with a (pinky) promise of visiting her during holidays.

Rhodey and Happy helped you settle in your newest house- a penthouse in manhattan that your dad left behind for you. That was 3 months ago. Now, fully settled in your new space, you’ve decided to restart college to finish your degree that was put on pause because of a giant purple psycho. You had decided you will stop the whole Avenger shit the moment you lost your dad. You needed to leave that life behind in order to move on, and what better than being filthy educated and eventually finding a normal job?

Well, let’s just say it didn’t go as planned.

I mean, really, were you expecting to just magically heal from the most traumatic time of your life in three months, with no therapy or contact from your family and friends?

Panic attacks are like your best friends. The other day you had a panic attack because you found a scarf that was gifted to you by your dad. Embarrassing, really.

Nightmares are something you have been walking hand-in-hand with since your dad was kidnapped and you were just a little kid. But now, every night you close your eyes and you see your father’s lifeless eyes staring back into yours.So it’s not surprising that you have become insomniac as well.

Overall, you were continuing the Stark legacy of being severely mentally ill but not doing anything to help it or accepting any help. The only difference was that you chose NOT to drink until you blacked out because after watching your dad do that as a kid, you developed a strong distaste for any type of alcohol. It was so bad, that you got diagnosed with dispophobia– a persistent fear of drinking alcohol. It’s real, look it up.

You chose the other option—pushing everyone around you away until you wallowed in your misery, loneliness and sorrows.

This behaviour of yours was constantly stressing Pepper, Rhodey and Happy out. All three of them did their best to help you and make you socialise, but everytime they approached, you either ignored their calls and messages or told them you were busy (by busy you meant that you were tinkering on your father’s old suits that you moved to your apartment, but you didn’t tell them that.)

Even FRIDAY tried giving them updates on your well-being but you had threatened the AI to not “leak” any of your “information”. This was giving the three of them a major déjà vu. Eventually, they had enough and Rhodey came to your house one day because he knew he’s the only one who can call out your shit. He kinda had a Phd in tackling the Stark family’s issues.

“Look kid, it’s been 3 months. You haven’t bothered to call or text any of us. We didn’t even know if you were alive since you have banned FRIDAY from reporting anything to us as well. Can you please spend one evening with us for a dinner? Hell, if not all of us,then atleast meet up with Morgan?”, Rhodey said firmly with his eyebrows furrowed and arms folded tightly around his chest, leaning on your kitchen island.

You were making your dinner when he decided to come over. Trying your best to be nonchalant, you kept stirring the soup with your back to him, and scoffed, “You sound exactly like dad sometimes.”

Rhodey closed his eyes in frustration. “That’s not important right now. You’re doing the same thing that Tony did when he was feeling all these… emotions. Please, stop this kiddo. You’ve got all of us. Always. Just reach out once and we’ll be there to catch you”, he replied in a soft tone.

You took a deep breath and he saw your shoulders go up and down. You stopped stirring the soup, turned the gas off and turned around to face him.

You wrapped your arms around yourself, making yourself smaller, and intently focused on your shoes to avoid meeting his eyes.

“There’s nothing to ask. I’ve already told you I will be starting college soon. I’ll keep myself productive and occupied. It’ll be alright, don’t worry about me”, you say, your voice scratchy after not using it for a long time.

Rhodey observed you with his sharp gaze. You knew you were screwed the moment you saw Rhodey at the door because he could read you like a book. Honestly, it was extremely intimidating but you will never admit that to his face. He’s been around for your whole life- right from your birth. He knew you like you were his own child.

“FRIDAY, activate babysitter protocol”, he said, his voice stern.

You snapped your gaze up from your shoes to stare at him in confusion.

“On it Mr. Rhodes”, FRIDAY replied.

“What the hell is this?”, you replied narrowing your eyes at him.

“I know you blocked FRIDAY from telling us anything about you. Did you know Tony had an emergency protocol built in so that if there’s anything that went wrong while you were alone, FRIDAY would update him?”, Rhodey replied nonchalantly.

You widened your eyes and immediately teared up on hearing how protective your dad was over you. You were too tired to fight back so you just shut your eyes and wrapped your arms around your body tighter.

“FRIDAY, give me a proper run down of the kid’s activities and schedule in this past month. Including their health”, Rhodey asked the AI while observing you closely.

“OK sir. In this month, they have stepped out of the house only once for buying groceries. The rest of the month they’ve been at home, fixing Mr Stark’s suits”, FRIDAY finished.

At this, Rhodey’s eyes widened. “Tony’s suits? How did you even get these suits?” “They sneaked in the suits 2 months ago, Sir”, Rhodey’s eyes snapped back to yours. 2 months ago- right after you moved in. The suits were at the new compound and they were heavily guarded.

They should’ve known better because did they really expect you, a genius like your father, to not figure out how to hack the systems? It was a cakewalk for you.

You scrunched your eyes in shame and bowed your head. “Kid….”, he sighed.

“Tell me about their health, FRI”, Rhodey asked in a pained voice.

“They’ve had panic attacks almost every week. I suggested taking medication or visiting the therapist, but my requests were ignored. I’ve also observed a spike in their heartbeat everytime a loud noise is heard. They have nightmares regularly due to which they have stopped sleeping altogether. All the stress has made them lose weight, their appetite has lessened and has made them more irritable and unpredictable”, FRIDAY finished (snitched, you think).

Hearing it from someone else made it sound so much worse. You couldn’t stop the tears from rolling down your face.

You were too busy keeping the sobs from coming out of your mouth to notice Rhodey coming closer and wrapping his arms around you. He brought you closer and hugged you tightly and that completely broke you.

You leaned your head against his chest and wrapped your arms around his torso and just sobbed. Rhodey hushed you gently and rubbed your back softly with one of his hands.

“I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. I can’t deal with this, Uncle. Please. I need him back”, you said in between sobs while clutching him tightly and pressing your face into his chest. Rhodey teared up at this and put one of his hands behind your head.

“It’s okay, sweetheart. Let it out. I’m so sorry I didn’t visit you sooner. I know what you’re feeling. But I’ve got you now. Please allow me to help you?”, he said weakly.

You let out a shuddering breath and tried to calm yourself down. “Okay. ”, you replied in a weak voice. Rhodey broke the hug before putting his hands on your shoulders and let you wipe your tears. He caressed your head and told you, “We’re gonna get you something to eat first. From tomorrow, we will work on your routine and talk to your therapist about your insomnia and panic attacks. And then, you will be taking lots of rest. No more tinkering on the suits endlessly or skipping meals. We will go on walks and you will have a dinner with us at the cabin soon. That okay?”, he asked gently. You looked up at him and nodded your head yes. “Good. Now, you sit your ass down and Rest. Let me prepare your dinner”, he says while moving around you to get to the stove. “Do you even know how to turn on the stove?”, you say in a stuffy voice while wiping your nose with your sleeve and side eyeing him. He abruptly pauses and turns around. “You’re such a little shit, you know that?”, he says sassily while pointing a finger at you. That brings out a genuine smile from you and you just chuckle before he starts laughing as well. Your smile fades slowly. “Thank you. This means a lot to me,” you reply softly. Both of your eyes start tearing up and he just nods his head before giving you a side hug. “Anything for my favourite Stark”, he says in a shaky voice.

2 Months Later

You and Rhodey fell into a rhythm after that night. He stayed with you for some days and got you checked with your therapist and helped you around the house. He took you out for jogs every morning, made you work out and exercise every day. This made you feel productive and gave you a routine to follow. It also improved your appetite and you started to genuinely enjoy making healthy and filling meals.

You stopped unnecessarily tinkering on the suits and the medicines prescribed by your doctor helped you sleep better. You still had a long way to go but you had finally started stepping out of the house and went to a dinner at the cabin. Happy, Pepper and Morgan were so delighted to see you and they told you how proud they are of you. You just gave all the credit to your uncle Rhodey.

Rhodey had become a major figure in your life lately. He’d always been there for you and your dad but now he was like a teacher and mentor to you. All thanks to him, you could get your life back on track. And he was happy to help you anyways because you were like his own child.

But he’d started to take you to various social events lately and you HATED that. You were always a shy and socially anxious kid (a complete opposite of your father.) So the thought of attending social events where so many people and cameras were present…that was enough to send you into an early grave.

“Rhodey….for the last time. I’m not going with you. What am I even gonna do there? Sit and yawn while all you military and political people make speeches? No thanks”, you said breathlessly and jogged a little ahead of him.

He joined you immediately, huffing and puffing, “First of all.” Huff. “Slow DOWN. Jesus Christ.” Huff. And he stopped while putting his hands on his knees.

“Keep up, lazy! We gotta keep THE War Machine kicking and alive, come on!”, you say while jogging backwards and smiling at him.

When you saw that he was not going to join you, you stopped and jogged over to him. “Lazy, my ass. I’m 60 years old, you little shit”, he said while looking up at you, eyes narrowed and hands still on his knees. Still huffing and puffing.

You chuckled and helped him stand up with your arm around his back and another arm holding his. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry. You wanna sit down? Might as well drink some water, I’m thirsty.”

He nods his head yes and both of you sit down on a nearby bench and take a breather. You’re quiet for sometime, soaking in the crisp morning air and looking at the water fountain in front of you when Rhodey speaks up.

“I know you hate these events. But, please come to this one. We have a reunion in order, anyways”, he says cheekily while looking at you with that big smile of his plastered on his face.

You turned your head to look at him and raised your eyebrow, “Reunion? With whom?”, you ask skeptically. “Please don’t say Steve Rogers, Rhodey. I swear to god, I will never step foot in this city again”, you say, irritated.

He scoffed, “Nah, don’t worry. That’s never happening. It’s Sam. He’s been telling me that he wants to meet you.”

You observed his face for a second to see if he was being serious. “Sam? Sam Wilson? Why would he want to meet me?”, you asked, confused. Ever since the Sokovia Accords were brought into existence and ever since you sided with your father, Steve and the others didn’t want anything to do with your family. But you didn’t have anything against any of them— well, except for Steve. That was personal.

Even back then, you told your dad that you thought Bucky was innocent and that you want him to forgive Bucky somehow. You never met your grandparents so their accident/murder didn’t affect you. And you especially didn’t give a fuck about your deadbeat grandfather who would abuse your dad, but you felt your dad’s anger was justified as he loved his mom. You didn’t have an issue with Sam either. Not even when Rhodey met with that fatal accident that made him lose his legs. You saw the footage, and Rhodey told you as well, that Sam simply dodged. He didn’t cause the fall, nor did he injure him on purpose. The fall happened because his suit malfunctioned. But since Steve was the glue that was holding them together, they avoided talking to you at all. They were simply being loyal. And we all know how Steve Rogers thanked their loyalty in the end.

You would never forgive him for breaking your dysfunctional-found-family apart by being a selfish asshole and by abandoning your dad when he needed his support the most.

Rhodey shrugged. “Dunno. But he was looking forward to meeting you. He’s the kindest man I know, kid. And I know you don’t hold a grudge against him either. Please, come with me. I promise we will go get some ice cream later”, he said earnestly and smiled.

You let out a deep sigh. “Chocolate chips. Double scoop”, you said and lifted your water bottle to drink to avoid looking at his smug expression.

“Oh, you shall get anything you ask for, your highness”, he said while extravagantly bowing at you.

You just smirked and got back up to jog.

The constant clicking of the cameras was quickly causing a throbbing ache to appear behind your eyes. You were dressed in your formal clothes, presentable as always, and entered the museum arm-in-arm with Rhodey.

After giving a thousand repetitive interviews, half of which Rhodey denied on your behalf, you finally saw the man in question—Sam Wilson. Captain America.

Honestly, you were so proud of and excited for him to take up the mantle. It wasn’t a shock that Steve handed over that shield to Sam. He deserved it.

He saw the two of you and came over to talk. As he came closer, you saw just how shocked he was to see you there.

“Whats up, man? How are you?”, Sam said while shaking hands with Rhodey and bringing him in for a hug, all the while flashing his lovely, tooth-gaped smile.

Rhodey patted his back and broke away from the hug. “The usual. I got a surprise for you”, Rhodey said while putting an arm around your shoulder.

Sam, still surprised, flashed another one of his smiles at you.

“I just can’t believe you’re here. I hope you know how grateful I am”, he said earnestly while putting his hand out to shake yours.

You looked at his hand and shook it. “I’m surprised you wanted to meet me”, you say while smirking at him.

His smile faded after hearing that and he looked at you with a solemn expression.

“Yeah. I’m sorry it took me so long. I-” “Mr. Wilson, it’s your turn to speak.” Sam looked back at the woman and nodded his head at her.

“Uh…I’ll catch up with you after all this is done. Please wait until then?”, Sam turned around and asked you, nervously.

Rhodey looked at you to decipher your reaction. “Okay. I’ll wait. But not for long and not in front of these cameras”, you say coolly.

Sam smiles at you and Rhodey before approaching the stage.

“See? That wasn’t so bad”, Rhodey says while leading you to sit at the front row.

“We’ll see about that— not the front row, Rhodes... It’s like you want me to run away”, you groaned while slowing your pace.

Rhodey just laughs and pats your shoulder. “Come on, I’ll be next to you the whole time. You can even crush my hand if you want to.”

You and Rhodey sat down and watched Sam approach the stage.

Sam looked sharp in his well-fitted suit but something about his expression screamed anxiety.

He began his speech.

“Steve represented the best in all of us. Courageous, righteous, hopeful. And he mastered posing stoically”, everyone chuckled at that. You scoffed.

“The world has been forever changed. A few months ago, billions of people reappeared after five years away, sending the world into turmoil. We need new heroes. Ones suited for the times we're in. Symbols...are nothing without the women and men that give them meaning. And this thing...”, he chuckles before picking up the shield and continuing.

“I don't know if there's ever been a greater symbol. But it's more about the man who propped it up, and he's gone. So, today we honor Steve's legacy. But also, we look to the future. So, thank you, Captain America. But this belongs to you”, Sam concluded and handed over the shield to the museum security who then put encased it in a glass case. The camera flashes went off.

You couldn’t believe this was happening. You knew something was wrong the moment Sam stepped up on the stage. Your mouth opened and closed like a fish out of water.

You furrowed your eyebrows and turned your head to look at Rhodey.

“Why did he give up the shield?”, you asked confused.

Rhodey solemnly smiled.

“Maybe try talking to Sam about this?”, he explained to you, gently.

You nodded your head in understanding.

Rhodey went over to talk to Sam while you checked out the other exhibits to give them a little privacy.

You ended up looking at Bucky’s exhibit.

They were displaying those clips of him in the 40s, smiling and free of all the pain, and they made your heart clench in sadness and guilt. He deserved better.

“Still can’t believe bionic staring machine was a heartbreaker back then”, you heard Sam’s voice behind you.

You looked at him and smirked.

“As if he’s not a heartbreaker anymore. Those baby blue’s? Could break a grandma’s heart too, which is funny because he would still be older than her”, you joked and looked back at the display.

Sam stood to your right with his hands in his pockets. He laughed at your joke and looked up at the TV displaying Steve and Bucky together.

He let out a sigh and brought his lips together in a thin line.

You looked over to him and studied his profile observed the way he carried tension in his shoulders.

“Penny for your thoughts?”, you asked him gently.

He shut his eyes and looked down, letting out another deep sigh.

“Kid…I’m sorry”, he said, his voice heavy with guilt.

You furrowed your brows.

“For what?”, you asked, genuinely confused.

Sam finally looked up at you with teary eyes. His brows scrunched together.

“Everything. The accords…Rhodey’s acci- injuries. For-for not making an attempt to maintain contact with you, for-”

“Hey. Don’t. I’m not angry about any of that. I never was. And I will never hold a grudge against anyone that wasn’t on my da- on our side”, you cut him off and explained to him firmly. “And if Rhodey isn’t upset about his accident, then who am I to question it? I know you didn’t dodge. It was an accident. I saw the footage way back then, Sam”, you laid your hand on his shoulder to comfort him.

He was overcome with emotion. He deflated as if years’ worth of weight on his shoulders had been lifted off of him. He simply nodded his head.

“If anything, I’m sorry. For everything you had to go through. I hope you’re doing better, now”, you continued.

Sam gave you a half smile.

“Yeah, I’m good. Helpin’ out my sister with the house and my nephews.”

You raised your eyebrows, surprised. You didn’t know he had a sister or nephews.

Sam chuckled. “Yeah…I got a younger sister and 2 nephews— AJ and Cass.”

You smiled. “I had no idea. I’m glad you guys can live together again”, you replied sincerely.

“Thank you, kid. I had no idea you’re so….nice”, he smirked.

You let out a loud laugh. Contrary to popular belief and rumours, you were a good and polite kid. Your dad, Pepper, Rhodey and Happy made sure of that. It was always funny to find out how people would judge you on the basis of your last name. But, it could also be because of your resting bitch face.

Both of you quieted down and looked at the display once again, when you decided to finally bring it up.

“Sam, why’d you give up the shield?”, you asked curiously.

He pursed his lips.

“That shield is heavy. And I don’t know if this country is ready to see a man like me bear the weight of it. No matter how many times everyone keeps telling me that it was Steve’s choice, they don’t know the consequences of me being Captain America until they wear my shoes. Steve didn’t know it either because at the end of the day, our skin colour doesn’t match and that isn’t suitable for the shield”, he replied heavily.

It felt like someone had put cold water on top of you, his words cutting straight through your ignorance. The pressure that Sam was undergoing would never be understood by anyone who didn’t look like him. That’s why Rhodey was so understanding of his decision.

You straightened up.

“Oh. Sam, I’m so sorry. I didn’t-”, you paused to gather your thoughts and word them carefully. “Yeah, I’m sorry. I should’ve known better. I understand. And I respect your decision”, you replied, genuine understanding dripping from your words.

Sam looked at you, surprised. He wasn’t expecting you to understand his situation.

“That’s- it’s..alright kid. Thank you for understanding me. It means a lot”, he replied sincerely and patted your shoulder.

You were about to take his leave when he spoke up.

“Listen, I got a proposal for you.”

You quirked an eyebrow.

“Just…hear me out, okay? Rhodey told me to keep an eye out for you whenever he’s busy. Says you do well with discipline in your routine. If you don’t mind, you could join me and help me out with the tech stuff, you know?”, he said hesitantly.

You were about to deny his offer when he put his hands out in a placating gesture.

“I know, it’s been a long time. You’re not interested in this stuff anymore. But I could use some extra hands and who better than a Stark to help out with technology, right? And, who knows, maybe you’ll make a friend”, he tried to convince you.

“A friend? You think I’m some loner or what, Wilson? (You kind of were, a loner, but we will ignore that.) And just who is this friend?”, you asked him with narrowed eyes.

“He’s my new team member. A tech savvy nerd, like you. You’ll get along, trust me. Except I’ll warn you, that boy yaps a Lot”, Sam replied while chuckling.

That sounded way too familiar to you. You immediately froze and just stared at Sam, lost in thought. All those unwanted and painful memories were coming back to you.

Sam put his hand on your shoulder and you snapped out of your stupor.

“You don’t have to answer me immediately. Take your time, the offer is always open for you. Okay?”, he asked hopefully, ever the optimistic counselor.

You let out a big sigh.

“I don’t know. I’ll see”, you murmured. You could feel that uneasy feeling creep up your veins that told you to shut down, keep everyone away and to run somewhere far away where you could be isolated in peace.

You were finally feeling comfortable in your little bubble that consisted of you, Rhodey, Pepper, Happy and Morgan. Now you had to go out and make yourself accommodating and welcoming again. You had to repeat everything and start from scratch. It was a lot. You were not ready for that.

Healing is never linear, you knew that. But you were doing so well for the past two months. You clenched your fists and begged your mind to keep it together. You were pretty good at masking it.

Sam just nodded his head and patted your arm.

“Come on, I’ll walk you and Rhodey off.”

You both returned to Rhodey and said your goodbyes.

“See ya, old man. Take care of yo’self, alright?”, Sam said while hugging Rhodey.

“You too, Wilson”, Rhodey said before breaking the hug and patting Sam’s back.

“I’m proud of you, Sam. Never forget that”, Rhodey said gently.

Sam just smiled weakly and patted Rhodey’s shoulder before turning to look at you.

You looked at him and gave him a barely there smile before surprising him with a hug. You don’t know what came over you but you just wanted him to know that you appreciated his support and the conversation that you two had back there. Your words failed you, so you did the next best thing you knew– a hug.

He looked at Rhodey over your shoulder and patted your back like an older brother.

“Take care, kid. Think about what I said”, he said after breaking off the hug.

You simply nodded your head yes.

“And both of you are invited to the family cookout, alright? Rhodes, make sure you bring them with you. Sarah makes a mean cornbread”, Sam says while pointing at you.

Rhodey chuckles and you grin before departing.

You sat in the car and looked out of the window, deep in thought. You were processing your conversation with Sam and debating whether you should join him, or not. You couldn’t help but keep thinking about this friend that he mentioned and how he reminded you too much of-

“Whatcha thinkin’?”, Rhodey asked lightly, as if to not startle you.

You glanced back at him and turned your attention to the front of the car. You sighed softly.

“Had a good chat with Sam. We apologised to each other and sorted out our misconceptions.”

“That’s good, right?”, Rhodey asked and tilted his head to look at you.

You nodded. “Yeah. It was really nice to clear all of that up. He’s so…lovely to talk to. We also talked about his decision to give up the shield. I felt so stupid when he explained it to me. How could I not understand that beforehand?”, you said while clenching your jaw, feeling guilty for judging his decision.

Rhodey gave you a soft smile.

“Atleast you’re self-aware, sweetheart”, he said lightly.

You finally gave him a smile.

“Yeah. He also gave me an offer. To join him”, you said hesitantly.

Rhodey smirked knowingly. Sam had already discussed this with him.

“And? What’re you thinking?”, Rhodey asked nonchalantly so as to not freak you out.

You let out a deep breath.

“I don’t know. I’ll think over it”, you replied with finality in your tone.

Rhodey felt the walls build up again so he backed off instead of pestering you to talk more.

“That’s okay. You can take all the time you want, kid. There’s no rush”, Rhodey said sincerely.

You looked at him and squeezed his hand.

“Shall we go get that ice-cream now, your highness?”, Rhodey joked.

You finally let out a chuckle and nodded your head yes before turning your attention back towards the window. You let out a sigh.

You were not going to get any sleep tonight.

Part 2

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AN: Whew. This was so LONG, I’m so sorry. 😭🙏 but I just couldn’t stop writing because I love me a stark!reader as that’s literally me but also I needed some found family content + closure between the stark family and the cap fam, too. Which is why I had to break it in 2 parts. Our lovebirds will meet in the 2nd part. Keep guessing the references and this mystery person until then.😛 thank you for reading!

[merrybloomwrites]

A Livestream Love Story

Summary: Your story with Spencer, as told in a series of livestreams.

Word Count: 3.1K

AN: I got 2 requests (request 1, request 2) that had to do with livestreams, and decided to do a story much like my "Podcast Love Story" oneshot. Hope you enjoy!

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Rocking Out In Guitar Hero 

“Are we live?” Spencer says as the livestream officially starts broadcasting. 

“It’s live,” Brennen answers from behind the camera. 

“Wait, actually right now?” Spencer asks. 

“Yes, right now,” Brennen confirms. 

“Wow, that was too chill,” Spencer says before launching into an explanation about today's livestream. He and Courtney will be playing Guitar Hero, and they’ve managed to upload some of their favorite songs to play. 

For the next half hour, they show off their skills for all the people watching. 

You’ve been busy filming another show and happen to end early, meaning you can pop in and watch them stream for a little while. You try not to be spotted, not wanting to interrupt of course, but also not wanting anyone to see the way you swoon over Spencer. 

The crush you’ve been harboring on him since you started working at Smosh has only continued to grow. Keeping it hidden has been getting more difficult, and peaking in to watch him now is probably a bad idea. 

Because for some reason, him absolutely effortlessly shredding on Guitar Hero is way more attractive than it has any right to be. You try not to stare too much, but the way his fingers move so dexterously on the keys has you feeling some sort of way. 

Of course you can’t hide for long, and soon enough Courtney is calling you over to join them. 

“Y/N, were you a guitar hero girlie?” Spencer asks. 

“Well I played a lot as a kid but it’s been awhile. Might be rusty,” you answer.  

“Give it a go,” Spencer says. He stands, shifting and brushing up against you in the small space. Trying not to blush at the contact you sit in his now empty chair and Courtney passes you the guitar. 

You scroll through the songs, reading comments from the chat as you try to find one you want to play. 

Seeing a comment about how well Spencer is playing, you say, “I feel like people don’t know how good of a guitar player you really are.”

“You actually do play guitar,” He says, leading you to reply, “Yea but you actually play guitar too!”

Courtney smiles watching the two of you compliment each other, then gets surprised when you hand her the controller asking her to pick a song for you. 

After finally settling on “That’s What You Get” by Paramore you put it on medium, not wanting to embarrass yourself by failing on hard mode. 

You begin to play, chatting with the others as you do and you’re pleasantly surprised by how well you do. You’re especially happy when Spencer compliments you at the end. 

Though you try it head out once you’re done, but Courtney encourages you to stay for one more song. You watch as Spencer plays “Five Nights at Freddy’s”. Since it’s one of the songs they uploaded, it only has one difficulty: extreme. 

That’s no problem for Spencer, as he begins to shred on this toy guitar, barely missing any notes. You dance around, covering up how badly you want to just stare at his hands as he plays. 

Once it’s done you compliment him another time before thanking them for having you on and leaving the stream. You have a meeting starting soon, but you detour to the bathroom for a minute. You take some deep breaths, splash a little water on your face, and tell yourself to get your feelings under control. 

We Stream Resident Evil 8 For The First Time

You’re not entirely sure how you got roped into this. Well, you kind of knew, but it all happened so fast! 

You weren’t supposed to be on this livestream. It was meant to be Spencer playing with Amanda and Angela watching, just like in the recorded series. 

But Angela came down with a stomach bug, and here you are, filling in for her. You’re not a big fan of these games, the jump scares and freaky characters really creeping you out. Which of course is the reason you got picked. Because they knew you’d have big reactions which makes for good entertainment. 

So while you don’t love these games, you confirm you’re on board when Spencer checks in with you right before streaming. 

The three of you get set up, you next to Spencer with Amanda behind the two of you. Before you know it, the stream begins, and Spencer starts explaining everything to the audience. 

It’s only a minute later that he starts the game, and the first jump scare occurs. You and Amanda both yell at him to get away from the monster, and he tells you guys that it’s a cutscene and he has no control yet. 

“Oh, Y/N, you should close your eyes,” Spencer says. “You won’t like this part.” 

Choosing to trust him, you shut your eyes until he says it’s safe to open. You’d heard Amanda shout out but couldn’t tell exactly what had happened. 

“Spencer just killed a pig!” She says when you turn to her, confused. 

“I had to! I needed to get food,” he says to defend himself. 

You’re glad that he’d warned you, since seeing that play out definitely would have upset you. 

As the stream continues, you start to get more into it, asking questions and even giving out some helpful ideas. 

There are a couple parts that make you anxious, and as though he can sense this, Spencer leans his leg against yours. It’s hidden beneath the desk, ensuring no one will see, and that simple connection helps you stay relaxed. 

At one point Spencer pauses, saying that he has a headache and is suddenly not feeling well. He asks for water and you don’t hesitate to grab yours to share with him, truly worried by him suddenly acting like this. But a moment later Alex hands him a bottle of water, and Spencer sprays some of it on his hand.

You and Amanda both shout out, realizing that this was just a bit, since the character is always healing himself by spraying water on his hand.

“We were worried about you!” Amanda yells at him.

He just laughs, and you roll your eyes fondly, admitting that he did a good job at fooling the two of you. It’s nearing the end of the stream, so he unpauses and plays a little longer.

Just before you hit the three hour mark, there’s one final jumpscare. It startles you so badly that you nearly tip your chair over and fall. Amanda quickly steadies the chair while Spencer reaches out to grab your arm.

It’s clear you’re flustered when you sit back up, and you hope people will assume it’s because you nearly fell, and not because of how it felt to have Spencer’s hand on you.

After the stream is over, Spencer thanks you for filling in at the last minute. And just like that, the three hours of anxiety and elevated heart rates is worth it.

Seriously Super Stupid Sleepover: Charity Livestream 

“Welcome to the Seriously Super Stupid Sleepover!” Ian shouts as the livestream officially starts. 

“For the first time ever, we are doing a 24 hour charity stream,” Anthony says. “This is for a cause near and dear to us, and we want to start by saying we appreciate every dollar you all donate over the next day.”

“We have lots of activities planned, and various guests will be joining us, so get ready!” Ian adds.

You’re sitting in the conference room with some of your coworkers, watching the start of the stream. Since it’s going from noon on Friday until noon on Saturday, you’ve all been given a schedule of the times you’re set to appear on screen.

It’s been a big undertaking planning for this, but you know it will be worth it. Not only is it for a good cause, but there’s the added bonus of everyone getting the following Monday and Tuesday off. 

You’re not actually appearing on screen until that evening, but once you’re on, you’re there for a while. You know you should try and squeeze a nap in at some point in the afternoon, but you know that you’re likely going to be too excited to manage that.

You watch as the squad kicks off the stream with a classic TNTL, followed by George Primavera leading some of the Games crew in a new tabletop RPG. This together fills the first couple of hours, and you decide to head back to your desk to continue doing some work there. 

“Hey, Y/N, dinner’s ready in the conference room,” Kiana says, bringing you back to reality. You’d gotten lost in your writing, and it was a surprise how much time had passed. You grab something to eat, and by the time you’re done, it’s past 7pm. No time to take a nap now, since you’re due to stream in less than an hour. So of course, you make yourself a latte using the new fancy machine in the kitchen, and drink it as you get yourself ready to appear live. 

The first show you’re appearing on is Beopardy. It’s one of your favorites, since you love trivia, and it gets your energy up for the night. You get a quick break while some pre-recorded content plays, and then you’re back on for Angela’s funeral roast. Due to the number of people involved, this one takes quite a while, and by the time that session is done, it’s already 10PM, and you’ve been on screen for nearly 3 straight hours. 

You get a short break while Anthony does an interview with Mac. During that time, the rest of you change into pajamas for the overnight portion of the stream. 

Now dressed in your starry pajama pants and oversized Smosh crewneck sweatshirt, you wander into the kitchen looking for a quick snack. 

Spencer notices when you walk in, and he gives you a smile as well as a package of your favorite cookies. You thank him with a shy smile of your own, and the two of you chat for a few minutes. 

You haven’t seen him for a while. He’d been on the stream early and had a break, during which he managed to squeeze in a nap. But now he’s back, joining you, Olivia, Courtney, and Noah for some classic sleepover games. 

You start with the awkward dance party, and then do the Urban Dictionary Challenge, where one of you reads out a term from urban dictionary and the rest have to guess the definition. 

As it nears midnight, you all settle on the couches for a couple of Jackbox games. Due to the late hour, it’s no surprise that the answers you all give grow sillier and sillier. 

In the very early hours of the morning, you find yourself on the couch, Spencer on one side, Amanda on the other. There are a few other people on chairs throughout the room, and you’re all set to play Geoguesser. 

Half of your group is very clearly hopped up on caffeine, especially Angela, while the other half is starting to fade with sleepiness. You fall into the second category. It’s especially hard to stay awake since this game doesn’t need too much input from you. 

Amanda notices your eyelids getting heavy and drops a blanket in your lap. You bring your legs up on the couch, curling them under you and wrap yourself in the blanket. Within seconds you’re cozy enough to fall asleep, but you fight off the drowsiness. Luckily, you recognize the next location to pop up, and it re-energizes you for a second as you lead the others to find the right place on the map. 

But that energy doesn’t last long, and soon your eyes start to droop shut again. Not realizing what you’re doing, you shift to get comfortable, your head resting on Spencer’s shoulder. The rest of the group notices that you’re asleep, and while they make a couple jokes about it, no one tries to bother you and wake you up. 

You stay like that for the next twenty minutes as they finish playing the game. Occasionally you’ll move and snuggle closer to Spencer, and he does his best to hide the pleased smiles that your actions cause. It’s clear to anyone paying attention how soft he truly is for you.

When the segment ends another pre-recorded commercial airs, giving you all some time to exit the set. 

Spencer gently nudges you until he sees your eyes blink open. You’re confused, then embarrassed, but overall, what you feel most is tired. 

“C’mon, let’s get you to the lounge, they’ve got beds set up,” he says. Spencer then wraps his arms around you, helping you stand and guiding you to one of the free air mattresses. You’re both quiet, not wanting to wake anyone who’s already asleep. 

You lay down and Spencer tucks the blanket around you, saying a soft goodnight before finding a mattress of his own. 

A few hours later you wake up, still groggy but at least somewhat rested. Looking around you see a few people still sleeping, so you tiptoe out of the room. 

You get dressed and freshen up, knowing you’ll be appearing in the stream one more time. All cast is expected to participate for the last hour, making sure to close out the stream with a bang. 

There are a few people hanging in the conference room so you grab some breakfast and join them. You stay there for a bit, and a minute before you’re going to head back to the set, Spencer walks in. 

Suddenly, memories of the night before enter your brain, and you realize what had happened. What you’d done. 

You’d fallen asleep, on the live, with your head on Spencer’s shoulder. 

And you’re now mortified. Spencer gives you a soft smile, but you don’t have a chance to talk to him since you need to get back to the stream. 

One last commercial break airs, allowing you all to get set up. When you’re live again, everyone starts to banter, talking about the last day. You’re happy to hear that you weren’t the only one to fall asleep in front of everyone, though it seems you were the only one who used a coworker as a pillow. 

Finally, it’s time for Anthony and Ian to wrap everything up. They thank the audience for all the kind donations, and suddenly, the stream is over. 

A couple crew members who weren’t working overnight are set to drive everyone home, so that no one drives while sleep deprived. Which means you don’t get a chance to talk to Spencer before leaving, as you don’t want to hold up the other people in your car. 

Then comes the long weekend. Which is lovely and a nice, well appreciated break. But you can’t stop thinking about what happened Thursday night. You’ve already seen the moment clipped and giffed online, people clearly starting to ship the two of you. 

Even after days of thinking of what to say, you still avoid Spencer when you do get back to work. You’re embarrassed by your actions, and afraid of what he might think of you. But at the end of the day, Spencer asks you to talk, and you take a deep breath, knowing you can’t avoid this any longer.

The two of you sit in an empty office, and it’s quiet for a moment. You bite the bullet and break the silence, saying, “Sorry for passing out on you the other night.”

Spencer shifts in his seat, and you hate that you’ve clearly made him uncomfortable. But then his answer is something you never would have expected. 

“Truthfully, I didn’t mind. I uhm, it was nice. I liked that you were close to me,” he says. You notice the way he looks down as he says it, the slight pink on his cheeks that wasn’t there before. 

“Really?” you ask and he nods, his confirmation giving you the confidence to admit, “I liked it too.”

“You did?”

“I did. I mean, I know I was asleep but I’ve seen some of the gifs and it just makes me happy.”

Spencer takes a deep breath and says, “Y/N, do you want to go on a date? With me?”

You’re surprised by the question, but quickly steady yourself enough to answer, “I would like that.”

And just like that, a moment you thought would forever embarrass you has instead led to the happiest outcome. 

Teaching Y/N Fortnight

It’s been a few months since the charity livestream and the subsequent start of your and Spencer’s relationship. You haven’t exactly gone public with it, but you haven’t kept it a total secret either. Fans have started to speculate, and you guys are okay with that.

You’re just not ready to make it publicly official yet.

It’s a Thursday afternoon, and you’re once again getting ready to do a livestream, this time one where Spencer will be teaching you to play Fortnight. 

He gives you a quick kiss before you both settle in for the stream, and it causes you to smile, as his shows of affection always do.

Making sure to be professional, you turn to the camera as Alex gives you the warning that the livestream is about to begin. Spencer does the intro, then gets into teaching you all of the controls and objectives of the game. 

A few minutes in, there’s a slight issue that leads to Spencer having to leave the room to fix something, while Alex sits at the computer to solve the problem on that end. 

While this is happening you’re trying to keep the viewers entertained, making jokes and telling some stories that you hope they’ll find interesting. 

“You know, I have to admit something,” you say.

“Oh yeah, what’s that?” Alex questions.

“I’ve played Fortnight before. Not enough to be good! But like, I kind of already know all the basic stuff.”

“So why let Spencer explain it all?” Alex asks.

“He just gets so excited to teach! It’s cute,” you explain.

And yea, you know the fans will be freaking out with that moment. And this being a livestream, you get to see those comments in real time.

Once the tech problem is solved, Spencer comes back and sees the way chat is freaking out, and asks what happened. Without hesitation, the viewers immediately tell him your admission, leading to him pretending like his pride has been ruined. 

But when he sees why you kept the secret from him, he can’t help but melt a little inside.

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AN: Thank you for reading, and thank you to those who sent in the requests that made this happen!

[blainesebastian]

not my type

word count: 12,775 ship: Nick Leister x reader rating: R (for sexual situations and expletives) summary: But maybe you should know better that there’s a fine line between not being able to stand someone and fizzling attraction.(essentially an 'enemies' to lovers fic) notes: really appreciate all the kind comments, likes, reblogs and everything in-between 🥰 glad you all are digging these. notes2: gifs from here, masterlist here

When you first met Nick, it started off on the wrong foot, something that’s never quite been corrected. An uncoordinated dance, an imbalance of snarky commentary and obscene gestures (you love giving him the middle finger with a grin, and he loves being less than a gentleman any chance he can get). Your small friend group keeps you in one another’s orbit, but that doesn’t mean you have to like eachother. He just…he gets under your skin in the worst fucking way. 

But maybe you should know better that there’s a fine line between not being able to stand someone and fizzling attraction. 

Nick may be gorgeous, which he seems to know, but he’s also a giant pain in your ass. And he likes being that just a little too much. 

—

Your first interaction consists of bumping into one another, literally, on the dance floor. You’re carrying drinks back to Jenna and her boyfriend Lion, attempting to settle into your new life after moving from New York to London. It hasn’t been the easiest transition to say the least, but your parents work with Jenna’s, and the moment you met her, you two hit it off. You’re extremely grateful for having someone to talk to, to invite you out, to get along with. 

If only you knew it was going to include this briar patch of a person. 

You’ve heard of Nick Leister, of course, before the unfortunate meet-up—his reputation precedes him. Successful at seventeen, a lot handsome, a little arrogant, and altogether frustrating. He looks down his nose at you when drinks are jostled in your hands, a sharp hiss leaving your lips when some spills onto your red party dress. 

“Should probably come with a turn signal in close quarters like this.” 

You scoff, seriously? “You bumped into me.” 

“Anyone would bump into you with your elbows out like that.” 

Your mouth falls open, pink staining your cheeks and heating the back of your neck, “That’s got to be the worst apology I’ve ever gotten, congratulations.” 

He crinkles his nose—it shouldn’t look so attractive, and you quickly toss that thought away, “I don’t owe you an apology.” 

You’re about to toss one of these well-balanced drinks into his face when Jenna pushes her way through the crowd, “Oh Y/N!” She grins, “I see you’ve met Nick.” 

Nick’s gaze bounces between Jenna and you, a look of annoyance flittering across his features as he realizes that his friend is your friend…and that he won’t be rid of you so easily. For some reason, that awareness fizzles like water dripped onto hot coals in your stomach. But instead of giving him the satisfaction that you’re bothered, you tip your chin and give him your brightest smile, 

“Yep,” You pop your ‘P’, “Utter pleasure.” 

There’s the tight flicker of amusement in the browns of his eyes, gone almost as soon as it appears. The corner of his mouth tilts up, as if pulled by an invisible string, “Pleasure is all mine.” 

—

Your friend group keeps you in similar circles, you spend time hanging out, getting to know one another, but you’re not sure you would call him a friend. The real problem is? When you’re wrapped up in distractions, when you forget the prickling animosity between the two of you…Nick’s someone you don’t mind spending time with. He makes you laugh, you like the passion that kisses his syllables when he talks about something he cares about…and you’re not going to try and deny that you’re attracted to him. At least not to yourself. 

He’s got a boxer’s body, long lines and a sturdy tone, the muscles in his biceps defined, strength behind how he moves. He’s balanced, graceful, a beautifully contained force. You think about his hands far too often, how they form fists, how they might feel on your skin. Nick’s a tactile person, he speaks with his hands, there’s purpose in every touch he makes. A brush of his fingers along your arm, a hand pressed to your lower back when moving through a crowd, squeezing your hand when he helps you down from a high spot. 

It’s frustrating, really, because he gets so easily under your skin. And yet you find yourself drawn to him nonetheless. The strong shape of his jaw, that smirk tugging his full lips, the pleasure and warmth sometimes in those brown eyes. 

Completely unfair. 

You lean back into your poolside chair and sip on your pineapple flavored drink, a small smile on your face as Lion and Nick toss a ball back and forth in the pool. He begins to swim towards the edge when Lion misses a throw, a laugh slipping out of his chest. He pulls himself out, water cascading down his skin and dripping onto the pavement. 

Your eyes flicker over his chest and arms, tracing pretty line tattoos, wondering why he’s gotten each of them, if he wants any others. Chewing on your straw, your gaze lingers over the Roman numerals under his shoulder blade—

“Eyes are up here, sweetheart.” 

And you feel your face go red as he catches you. Fuck. You huff out a sound, trying not to feed into the fucking satisfaction that’s already written all over his face. 

“Don’t call me that.” 

“Would you rather I call you something else?” 

Your thoughts spin in your head like a washing machine stuck on a rinse cycle as he grabs a towel, running it over his hair and down his chest. You’d rather pretend like the last three minutes didn’t happen. 

Straightening your shoulders, you decide to go with denial, “I know this is maybe sore for your ego, but just because you’re here without a shirt on, doesn’t mean someone is checking you out.” You motion to your sunglasses which have, thankfully, shaded your eyes and their traitorous direction from him. 

He’s just guessing. (He’s right, but that’s besides the point). 

Nick smirks, humming a little as he moves to sit down on a lounger next to yours, Jenna getting up from your other side to join Lion in the hottub. “My ego’s just fine, but it’s cute that you’re concerned about it.” 

“I’d be more concerned about your belligerent personality.” You smile sweetly, “Not going to get a date that way.” 

“So you are concerned about who I date?” He asks, raising his eyebrows. He leans forward as if intrigued, his elbows resting on his knees. The dick. 

“No.” 

You must say it far too quickly, because he’s smiling again, something slow and annoyingly handsome. Like a cat that’s caught a canary. “Oh you are,” He hums, “Well, you’ll be happy to know that you aren’t my type.” 

A scoff slips out of your throat and despite heat curling in your veins, you try not to take offense and rise to the commentary leaving his mouth. He wants to bother you, upset you, you’re not about to give him that gratification, “And who’s your type? Blonde, emotionless and rude? Quite the pairing.” 

Nick licks his lips, drawing in a soft breath as he sits with what you’ve said, “Anna and I are just friends.” 

And fuck—you didn’t even mean to describe Anna. Not exactly. You just…sort of flashed upon those personality traits in your mind, came to one conclusion. You’ve only had a few interactions with her but it’s been more than enough. She’s nasty in a way you didn’t realize another girl could be, and you barely know her? You can’t figure out why she’s been so unwelcoming.

“In case you’re concerned about that too.” Nick smiles, eyes roaming over your face, playfully pushing your sunglasses up the bridge of your nose before standing to get himself a drink. 

You let out a slow breath, trying to tell yourself that it doesn’t matter what Nick’s told you about him and Anna. That you could care less about who he’s dating or interested in or…anything like that. Why would that matter to you? 

You pointedly ignore how your lips have twitched into a smile, that tell-tale flush working its way down your chest. 

—

You’ve decided you want to go home. A little drunk and a lot tired, you’ve overstayed your limit at the latest underground car lineup. That’s what you like to call these little get togethers—when everyone shows up in their fanciest car and shows them off, maybe even races. You’re here because of Jenna, to have a good time, to drink a little too much and dance in the coolness of the parking garage, the music vibrating the concrete and reverberating in your chest. Admittedly, you love it a bit more than dancing in a club or someone’s house. 

Jenna playfully tugs you away from someone you’re dancing with, the guy all hands, but handsome, long legs and a grin that gives a dimple. But apparently he was trying to take you back to his place and Jenna’s got her wits about her to not let that happen. 

“Think it’s time for you to head home, sweets.” She laughs as you wrap your arms around her, resting your chin on her shoulder. 

“But I want to dance more.” You pout. 

She cups your cheeks, planting a kiss on your forehead. “And as much as I love seeing you dance, your knees are as wobbly as Bambi right now.” 

You huff, even though in the back of your mind, you know she’s right. You got a ride with her, so at the very least you don’t have to worry about leaving your car here. But you also don’t want to ruin the rest of her night, it’s still early? 

“I can see if Zach—”

“I can take you.” 

You blink, turning to see Nick standing near the trunk of Jenna’s car and…when the hell did he pop up here? Your eyes tick over his form quickly but it’s not missed by him however, because there’s a twinge of a smirk on his lips. He looks good, and that’s annoying within itself. 

“Uh, no thanks.” 

He raises his eyebrows. “Oh, you going to walk back?” 

Your eyes narrow into a glare. “I don’t need your help.” 

He smiles, far too handsome, Jenna stepping forward to pat your head. “Babe let him take you home, okay?” 

There’s a soft grumble in your chest because the last thing you want is to lean on him for help, to smell the pristine leather of the seats in his car, the rumble of the engine encompassing your body, the sensation of him far too close. You’re not my type vibrates in his timbre against your eardrums, your nose crinkling at that conversation. 

“I’m not exactly thrilled about it either,” Nick says, misreading your expression, “I got a lot of other things I’d rather do.” 

You scoff, as if he didn’t offer in the first place, but disentangle yourself from Jenna, your knees a little unsteady, “Well I’d hate to interrupt your very busy night,” You throw back, voice dripping in sarcasm, “I’ll find my own way home.” 

You turn, far too quickly, and practically tangle up your feet. You don’t faceplant though, as you suspected, and land right against a firm chest. Nick’s arm wraps around your waist, helping you keep your balance, and you wish he didn’t smell like that—expensive cologne, laundry detergent, something purely him. He smells good. 

“Thank you,” He replies and fuck—you did not mean to say that last part outloud. 

“I wasn’t talking to you.” 

Nick smirks, tucking your hair behind your ear and out of your face, “Sure, okay.” 

“Bye babe,” Jenna grins, reaching over to press a kiss to your cheek before disappearing around her car to find Lion.

You pull a little bit away from Nick, insisting on not needing him to walk, and his arm leaves your waist. His hand slips down, squeezing his fingers around your own, letting you lead even though you have zero clue where he parked his car. 

Eventually, through some of the crowd, he begins to tug you in the direction of where you need to go. When you pass the dance floor, one of your favorite songs on, you stop short. Nick jerks to a halt, an accidental yank on your arm as he turns around to look at you. 

“I want to dance to this.” 

His eyebrows draw together, glancing towards where people are moving to the beat of the music. You bounce a little on the balls of your feet in anticipation, “And I want to be unbothered the rest of the night—that’s not going to happen until I get you home.” 

You huff and Nick’s lips twitch, an almost smile he tries to hide, “One dance.” 

He’s immovable. “No, I’ll carry you if I have to.” 

Your mouth falls open, taking a step back even though his fingers have automatically laced with yours. You didn’t even notice until right this very moment. How long have they been like that? “You wouldn’t dare.” 

Nick raises his eyebrows and the glittering in the depths of the brown tells you that he’s accepted that challenge. He purses his lips, looking away for a brief moment before he moves—in one fluid motion, he places his arm along the back of your thighs, hauling you up over his shoulder. 

You choke out a squeal before slapping him on the ass, “Put me down.” 

A laugh empties out of his mouth before he quickly walks in the direction of his car. Fuck, you cannot believe he fucking picked you up like some sort of caveman. You try not to squirm but it feels like he’s barely holding on as it is, jostling you as he weaves through other parked cars, 

“Nick!” You snap out, one of your hands gathering the material of his shirt to ground you. Jesus, being upside down is making you even more dizzy, “I can walk—I swear to God, let me go.” 

He stops suddenly, though you’re not sure if you’re at his car—either way your stomach bottoms out as gravity gives way. Nick does let you go, assisting your tumble to the ground. A squeak leaves your lips and you land right on your ass, an unladylike oof leaving your lips. 

“Are you serious?” 

“Just proving a point,” Nick smiles, something so amused that there’s laughter wrapped around his syllables when he speaks, “I can’t figure you out. You wanted down and now you’re upset you’re on the pavement?” 

You kick your legs a little, boots on your feet echoing the clacking heel noise around you. There’s a pout on your lips as you look up at him, “You dropped me.” 

Nick shakes his head, but he’s still smiling, crouching down so that he’s eye-level with you. He gives you a onceover, making sure you’re okay, “You need help up?” He offers his hand, to which you smack away. He smirks, “Alright then.”

Your mouth, you swear, is completely disconnected from your body. You proved that by telling him that he smells good (he does) —but the longer you stare at him, the more you feel like asking him something that you haven’t been able to get out of your head since he told you. The words spill out of you before you can reign them in—

“I’m not your type?” 

Nick’s eyebrows draw together in soft confusion, like he can’t quite understand how you got from point A to point B. He then sighs out, reaching over to adjust the strap of your dress so it’s back on your shoulder and not halfway down your arm. 

“You’re still thinking about that?” 

You shake your head slowly, “...no.” 

Nick smirks but doesn’t press. You notice he doesn’t respond to your question, either, just reaches both his hands out to you, palms up. “Can I help you up?” 

You look at his hands, the silver rings on some of his fingers, the chain-link bracelet hanging from his wrist. Things that, for some reason, make your chest ache before you nod. He shifts forward to hook his arms underneath yours, hauling you up from the ground. The garage spins a little and you have to grab onto his arm to steady yourself. 

“Okay?” He asks, waiting until you nod. He guides you to his car, opening up the door, “You gonna be sick at all?”

“Just sick of your face.” You mumble, bending to get inside the car. 

Nick laughs, something warm and altogether too bright. “Feeling’s mutual.” 

Yet his actions don’t match his words, even when they’re said in teasing. He buckles your seatbelt for you and brushes his thumb along your collarbone before closing the door. 

—

You hadn’t exactly been going for drunk given the last time you drank because your hangover was fucking awful. Being a bit tipsy feels safer, in which the room spins a bit in a rose-colored glaze. Not too over the top, but still having fun. You’re looking to avoid what happened last time, your cheeks heating with embarrassment when you think about you and Nick eye to eye—

You’re still thinking about that?

Dumb, so dumb. You’re glad that he hasn’t mentioned anything, so you’re allowed to pretend it never happened. You push those thoughts aside, thinking about tonight instead. 

Jenna is one of your favorite people to dance with and Lion has been teaching you how to play pool, and your goal is to spend the rest of the night in the hot tub after drinking some water to balance yourself out. 

Adjusting your swim top, you come out of the bathroom and make a b-line to the kitchen, opening up the fridge to grab a cold bottle of water. You hum softly, resting the cold plastic against your neck, leaning against the counter. 

“Like that swim top.” 

You open your eyes, glancing over at someone you don’t know, a tall guy with auburn hair and freckles on his cheekbones. You give a small smile, curling your hair around your ear, “Thank you.” You unscrew the cap on the bottle, taking a long swig. The guy moves closer to you and your stomach flutters in discomfort, but you don’t move. 

He licks his lips, “Blue’s definitely your color.” 

You draw in a breath, “Thanks, it’s my favorite.” 

And maybe it’d benefit you to start heading out of the kitchen, or put some distance between you and whoever this guy is. You can tell his gaze is slightly glassy, the intentions of what he’s after written all over his face. You nearly know what’s going to come out of his mouth before he says it—

“Wanna grab a drink?” 

You’re not sure if he means right now or later, but either way, “Oh uh,” You shake his head, “No thank you.” 

He takes a step closer, nearly crowding your space and you hate that you’ve practically backed yourself into a corner in the kitchen, nerves beginning to fray as you realize you’ll have to push past him to leave. He’s not that much taller? But he feels like he towers over you. 

“C’mon, just one drink.” 

“She’s not interested.” 

The guy pulls back and when his body disappears from your field of vision, you see Nick leaning against the doorframe of the kitchen. His body is relaxed but it conflicts with the muscle flexing in his jaw, a sharp light in his brown eyes. You let out a soft breath as this guy steps out of your personal space, Nick wandering into the kitchen to grab another drink for himself. 

Tall guy no longer seems interested once Nick is there, and mumbles whatever as he turns to leave. You roll your shoulders back, turning a little to speak to Nick, maybe even thank him for saying something? But what he says next douses a cold bucket of water on you. 

He gives you a onceover, eyes lingering on the cloud-print that’s on your bikini top, before his eyes meet yours. “You’re too nice.” 

You blink—what? That’s the last thing you expect him to say. There’s a prickle of annoyance underneath his tone and your mouth opens a bit in surprise as you realize…it’s not directed at the guy who was practically folding you into the counter when he walked in, but that it’s towards you. He’s frustrated with you. 

What…is that supposed to mean? “That’s coming from you? Someone who thinks glaring and grunting are personality traits?” 

A twitch of a smile, but not quite. He turns towards you and wanders over with his beer, setting it down on the counter. He’s standing close, but not as close as that other guy. Not yet, anyways. You can feel the heat from his skin and smell his expensive cologne—it draws your heartbeat up into your throat. You tip your head back a little to meet his eyes, refusing to back down. 

“See,” He comments softly, motioning to your eyes, “Where was that?” 

Your eyebrows draw together, “What?” 

“Where was that fire in your eyes? That attitude you seem to only have with me.” 

A laugh stutters forward, “You ever seem to wonder why that is?” 

Nick closes the distance between you, creating a cage around your body with his arms as his hands press into the counter. Your stomach flip flops, your eyes boring into his own, and you force yourself not to look at his lips—even when he speaks. 

“You’re too nice,” He repeats, “What would have happened if I hadn’t walked in?” 

You’re not sure why it matters, why it’s any of his business, why he cares. Yeah, that guy was making you uncomfortable, but you would have…he would have gotten the point, right? “I was just about to tell him that he wasn’t my type.” 

Low blow—so much for not thinking about that. 

Nick doesn’t take the bait, however, even though there’s a glimmer of recognition in his eyes. “I don’t believe you.” He says softly.

Heat kisses the back of your neck, goosebumps spreading along your skin when you feel the fabric of Nick’s shirt brush along your arms. 

“You need to stick up for yourself Y/N, put your foot down when you deserve something. Tell someone to fuck off if they’re getting under your skin.” You swallow over a foreign emotion in your throat. The words bubble on your tongue just to prove a point—but he’s not agitating you, not really. He’s right. He’s right and that’s why you’re annoyed. You weren’t going to say anything. 

And even if you had? That guy was never going to listen to you, no matter how many times you told him, nicely, that you weren’t interested. You’re so worried about hurting someone else’s feelings that you never look out for your own. 

“You’re not a doormat,” Nick lifts his hand, playing with a strand of hair near your ear. Your stomach hits your knees when his finger brushes your cheek. “So stop acting like one.” 

It should piss you off, what he’s saying, but you find yourself utterly distracted by the nearness of his body, the way if he leaned in just a little, your lips would brush. 

You tilt your head up and don’t miss the way that Nick goes still, like he didn’t anticipate this, like he wasn’t expecting you to lean into his touch. You’ve caught him by surprise. Your noses bump, and Nick draws his lower lip into his teeth as he looks down at yours. 

Something heated slides down between your legs as his knuckles rests along your jaw, thumb brushing your lower lip. 

“Nick,” You whisper, hand resting on his chest. 

And just when you think he might lean in and kiss you, you push on his chest, sending him a bit off balance. “Fuck off.” Your voice has bite, fueled by his advice, his proximity, the fact that he sees you without trying. 

You hate that. (Or perhaps it’s because you don’t hate it at all). 

He draws in a breath, letting it out through his nose as you walk past, amusement and something you can’t name dancing on his handsome face. 

How’s that for not being a doormat? 

—

The next time Tall guy comes around at the party, trying to slide up against you while you’re outside the hot tub with Jenna, you turn and give him a firm I’m flattered but stop bothering me. He straightens, huffs out an annoyed sound, but turns and leaves you alone. Period. No room for interpretation. 

When you turn your attention back to your friend, you spot Nick watching nearby, a ghost of a smile on his lips. 

—

“What’s going on between you and Nick?” 

You turn a little towards Jenna, your friend’s eyes bright and open as you linger in the kitchen of Nick’s place, intent on going back out to the pool. Just a day to waste time, planning the next trip to Ibiza and the like. You wish it was just the four of you, but somehow Anna got invited, along with her insufferable friends. You’re trying to keep it friendly, but you’re pretty sure your emotions are clear on your face. 

“Not sure what you mean.” 

Jenna gives you this look, like don’t bullshit me and you…suppose you understand what she’s talking about. There’s been this odd heat that seems to fizzle between you and him—like you’re always ten seconds away from catching on fire. Though you’re not sure what that means. It’s hard to tell whether it’s mutual attraction or something worse. 

You might want to kiss him, mostly just to shut him up, but how much trouble would that be really worth? 

“You don’t get what I mean?” She asks, skeptical, “There’s obviously something there, babe, otherwise you wouldn’t look like you’re sucking on a lemon because Anna’s here.” 

For fuck’s sake. “Or it’s because Anna has the personality of a leather couch.” 

Jenna grins, tossing an arm over your shoulder, “Whatever you say.” She sing-songs.

You chew on your lower lip, debating for a moment whether you should voice what you’re about to. But…at this point, it’s sort of become a thing for you. So what does it hurt mentioning it to Jenna? Or at least seeing what she says. 

“He said I’m not his type.” 

Jenna smiles but bites on her lower lip, like she’s trying not to laugh, “And that bothered you, huh?” 

You roll your eyes, groaning as you cover your face with your hands. “He gets under my fucking skin.” 

“You don’t sound broken up about that.” 

“What does that even mean? I’m not his type? Maybe he’s not mine!” 

Jenna smirks, “I’m sure Nick likes to think he’s everyone’s type.” 

You let a slow breath out of your lips. Is his ‘type’ based off looks? Personality? Their taste in music or movies or cars? You hate that you’ve given this so much thought. 

“Maybe he just wants someone as rude and snarky as he is.” You grumble but even as the words leave your mouth, you know they’re not fair. 

A knowing hum leaves your friend’s mouth and she puts an arm over your shoulders again to guide you outside,  “Nick may seem prickly on the outside, he certainly loves a verbal spar as much as tossing his fists. But he’s a good guy.” 

“Deep down?” You mumble, even though there’s no heat to your words. You don’t mean it and you know it’s not. You’ve seen him be someone kind, considerate, thoughtful. Even though that kitchen conversation rubbed you the wrong way, you know the words themselves came from a place in which he cared—otherwise he never would have intervened, never would have said anything. 

She smiles, almost knowing, playfully tugging on a strand of your hair, “Not that deep.” 

There’s a moment in which you really take in what she’s saying and consider giving him that chance. You’ve known Nick long enough to understand that he’s complex and so is your relationship—there are layers that he’s never seen of you, so maybe it’d be fair to say the same about him. 

But as you turn past the corner of hedges, that thought goes right through the sky when you see him pressed against Anna in the pool, whispering something into her ear. Something green and sickly curls in your stomach and you have to pull your gaze away so quickly that you nearly topple right into your friend. 

On second thought? Maybe only knowing one layer of Nick Leister is more than enough for you. 

—

You can’t remember the last time you went to one of these bare-knuckle fights at Lion’s warehouse gym but you’re quickly recalling why the gap in attendance existed in the first place. 

Wincing as Nick takes another hit to the face, you tear your gaze away, a sharp breath gathering in your lungs. You try to convince yourself that it’s the violence itself that bothers you and not the fact that Nick is getting hurt. Granted he’s winning but…that doesn’t make it any easier. 

Rubbing the back of your neck, you glance up at the fight in front of you, the roar of the crowd drowning out the grunts of the fighters. This is the last round, though you’re not even sure why it’s needed. The guy across from Nick is taking wild strokes, obviously tiring out, sometimes landing something, most of the time not. You know Nick’s stance well, at this point, he’s letting him get hits in. 

When time finally ticks down and it’s over, you feel like you can breathe again, smiling just a little (though it feels too tight on your face) when Nick’s win is announced. As the crowd begins to dissipate, you follow Jenna back to the locker room where Lion is discussing payout. You stand nearby, leaning against a set of lockers, arms crossed over your chest. 

Nick is seated on one of the bleachers, listening to Lion, an amused stretch to his mouth as Lion practically beams with pride and being 20k richer. 

“Celebratory drinks at my place,” Lion comments, his hand coming down on Nick’s shoulder, and you don’t miss the soft wince that passes over his features. As he playfully tugs Jenna with him when he leaves, talking about tossing fifties in the air tonight like confetti, you draw in a soft breath and try not to let annoyance seep out of your pores. 

One of the only things you wildly disagree with when it comes to Lion is treating Nick like some sort of prized racehorse. You know that Nick can stand up for himself, can say no if he really wanted to, but that doesn’t mean you have to like the idea of him getting slapped around in the ring. 

Watching him struggle with antiseptic and cotton balls, you step towards the bench. “Here, let me help.” 

You straddle the bleacher, inching closer to where he’s seated sideways. He pauses, glancing up at you as you sit down, handing over the first-aid kit. You put it on the floor, rifling through it for clean cotton balls and more antiseptic wipes. It feels incredibly intimate like this, sitting so close to him, the empty echoes of the locker room, him with his shirt off and a light sheen of sweat on his skin. 

“Nothing’s broken right?” 

Nick shakes his head, watching you fiddle with the antiseptic wipes. You finally manage to tear one open and hold out your hand so you can look at his knuckles. They’re not too bad…you look up at his face, your stomach doing a somersault when your eyes meet his. Suddenly you feel too overwhelmed having him this close, the heat of his body reaching through the layers of your clothes. 

You reach up and gently run your fingers through the front part of his hair, even though you don’t have to, pretending to look at a bruise forming on his one eyebrow. You then give your attention to his cheek, his lip, where there’s cuts. Nothing that needs stitches but definitely need cleaned. 

Your one hand moves to cup his jawline, tilting his head back towards the lights on the ceiling, beginning to swab the jagged line on his cheek. He jerks a bit, letting out a sharp breath. 

You raise your eyebrows, smiling a little, “Don’t be a baby, I’ve barely touched you.” 

You continue cleaning his cheek until you’re satisfied, moving on to his lip. Your thumb brushes his lower one, trying to ignore how soft it feels beneath your touch. 

“Having trouble finding the cut?” He asks, voice a touch low as he definitely notices you getting caught up. 

Heat spreads along the back of your neck and your thumb moves to press along the corner of his mouth where it’s red, just a touch bloody. His reaction is immediate, a hiss between his teeth and the heat that was in his brown eyes suddenly sparks with indignation. 

“Found it.” You smile sweetly. 

“Your bedside manner could use some work.” He grumbles. 

Humming, you run your thumb along his jawline, almost in apology. You then begin to disinfect his lip in soft silence, making sure to get all the dried blood. You chew on the inside of your cheek in concentration before a thought wanders into the forefront of your mind. 

“Why were you letting him get punches in?” 

Nick raises his eyebrows, maybe almost impressed that you could tell he was doing that. He shifts on the bench, “I’m surprised you noticed, any I time I saw you in the crowd, you had your head down.” 

I don’t like seeing you get hurt, is what you want to say, but those words never make it out. “Why?” You ask again. 

He breathes out, shrugging his one shoulder, “He doesn't have the best record, he was going to lose the minute he stepped in the ring.” An eyeroll from you—cocky. “Figured the night shouldn’t be a total waste for him.” 

You shake your head, “No one is going to want to date you if you look like a potato.” 

You’re joking, of course, but Nick’s hand suddenly comes up and wraps around your wrist. You swallow as his thumb drags across your veins, the air seeming to crackle around you as he says, “That’s the second time you’ve been concerned about who I’m dating.” 

“I was…” Words, “I was just pointing out that no one is going to date you with your face all…like that.” 

He smiles, just a little, a twitch of his lips. “My face like what?” He licks his lips, glancing down at yours. “‘No one’?” He tosses your words back at you, “I don’t know about that.” 

A shiver runs down your spine, something Nick can definitely feel based on his proximity. You don’t remember leaning closer to him, but you do, noses bumping, lips brushing—

And then the door to the locker room slams open. “Oi!” Lion calls out, “Can’t celebrate without you! Let’s go!” 

You practically fall off the bench you back up so fast, Nick’s eyes light with mirth and something else. Something you don’t wait around to identify before muttering you have to go, passing Lion on your way out. 

—

Shivering as you cross the street, you tug your phone out of the pocket of the dress you’re wearing to call Jenna to see if she’ll come pick you up from this fucking awful date you were on. This is your own damn fault, you know that, but you’re pissed nonetheless. You have no idea why you talked yourself into this (yes you do) but you decide there and then that you’re not going on any more dates unless you know the person. This is a guy that you interacted with once at a party and that should have told you all you needed to know. 

Jenna doesn’t pick up on the first call and you close your eyes, tipping your head back towards the night sky because this is also a rookie fucking mistake. You let the guy pick you up, drive you to the bar that’s now across the street.

“Idiot,” You mumble to yourself, trying Jenna’s cell again. 

Honestly? This is all Nick’s fault. He’s got you fucking twisted up in a way you cannot explain or sus out your feelings for. Seeing him close with Anna in his pool, patching him up and nearly doing something regrettable like kissing him, listening to his advice about not being a doormat… it just. It all builds up. 

You’re not my type. 

You let out a harsh breath—this is how you’ve ended up out on the sidewalk, trying to call a ride home. 

You told your so-called ‘date’ to stop trying to kiss you, that you weren’t even sure you wanted to finish the night out, let alone kiss him at the end of it. One point for standing up for yourself. Negative one point for your date telling you to fuck off and find your own ride home. 

Charming. 

“Fuck,” You pull your phone away when Jenna doesn’t answer for the third time. 

Chewing on the inside of your cheek, you debate ordering a ride but…the last thing you want to do is spend more time with a different strange man tonight. There’s another name that your thumb hovers over and you already hate yourself for wanting to tap on it. 

He probably won’t pick up anyways. 

But, of course, he does. 

Before he can even speak, you try to explain, “I tried calling Jenna three times but she’s not picking up.” 

Nick lets out a breath through his nose, “What’s wrong?” 

You wince, not wanting to tell him. You begin a slow pace, back and forth, across the edge of the sidewalk. “Uhm. I was on a date and…turns out he fucking sucks, so, I need a ride home.” 

Chewing on the inside of your cheek, you almost spill into a tangent about how you can order a ride or maybe…call someone else? Try Jenna again. You expect Nick to make a wiseass remark about calling so late, or give a scornful comment on how it sucks that your date was terrible. 

He surprises you by doing neither of those things, “Where are you?” 

You blink, opening and closing your mouth, “I’ll drop a pin.” 

Despite the silence, he stays on the phone with you until he turns onto the street, the familiar sound of the rumbling engine a comfort you can’t explain as he pulls alongside where you’re standing. Tugging the door open, you slip inside, a soft sound leaving your lips at the warmth of the leather seats. 

Nick’s in a pair of sweats, a plain white t-shirt, zip-up hoodie. When he sees you trembling, he turns the heat dial up, his hands resting back on the steering wheel as you put your seatbelt on. You’re not sure if he was at home or…somewhere else, but you’re grateful he showed up. Regardless of the tumultuous relationship the two of you have, he came to get you. That means a lot. 

The bruises and cuts on his face are healing quite nicely from his tussle in the ring. In about a week, it won’t even look like he was fighting at all. 

“Thanks,” You sniffle, rubbing the end of your nose with the back of your wrist. “You know, I really don’t understand guys. I mean—you seem to have a few good conversations with them and then they jump right into being a jackass when you won’t kiss them. I mean, what the fuck?” 

You glance over at him as he pulls out of the parking spot, the muscle in his jaw flexing, knuckles a bit white as he grips the steering wheel. 

“He didn’t even take me to dinner before the bar,” You shake your head. “I’m starving.” Not that you’re expecting to be completely wined-and-dined and everything but…what ever happened to good food, good conversations and a late-night drink? 

A soft huff leaves your lips, leaning back against the seat and wrapping your arms around yourself. 

“He tried to kiss you?” 

You blink, looking back over at Nick as he drives. His eyes are on the road, but the tone of his voice envelopes you like a warm blanket, causing a shiver to course down your spine. You’re almost confused he asks because…you weren’t even on that topic anymore, moreso on your rumbling stomach and wondering what you’re going to make to eat when you get home. 

“Yeah,” You shrug, “Wasn’t happy when I wasn’t into it. Told me to fuck off and find my own way home.” 

Nick lets out a short breath, stalling the car at an intersection even though the light isn’t red. There’s no one behind him but your eyebrows draw together as he seems to debate making an illegal U-turn. 

“It’s not too late—I can turn around, go back, punch his lights out.” 

You find yourself staring at him, at the open display of protectiveness, how pissed he sounds. On your behalf. You almost have no idea what to say for a moment, not expecting this reaction. For him to offer to turn the car around and…

Letting out a slow breath, you reach over and gently touch one of his wrists, smoothing your thumb along the tree of veins there until he visibly relaxes. He presses his foot against the gas, getting the car going. You appreciate the gesture, as fucked up as that might be. But he doesn’t need to hit anyone for you. 

Both of you are quiet as he drives, until a soft giggle climbs up your throat, “You know…punching him might have only done him favors, feel like he wasn’t very handsome to start.” 

Nick rolls his eyes but there’s a gentle tilt to his lips, a smile that wants to happen but doesn’t quite get there. “Would have made me feel better.” 

You hum softly, “Because he ruined your night?” You’re not sure what he was doing before you called, but you’re sure it was probably better than this. 

He licks his lips, putting his turn signal on, “Because he ruined yours.” 

Heat flushes over your cheeks and suddenly, you’re not feeling so cold anymore. Every time you think Nick’s not capable of surprising you, he says something like that. The sentiment dips into your chest and squeezes your ribs, releasing butterflies from their cages and fluttering them all throughout your system. 

It has you thinking about what Jenna said, that Nick’s a good guy. You suppose it’s something you’ve never doubted, just…never got to see much of it angled in your direction. 

When he puts the car into park again, you realize it’s not outside your place, but instead… “A diner?” You raise your eyebrows, turning a little to look at him. 

Nick takes his keys out, pocketing them before glancing at your abdomen. “They can hear your stomach grumbling a city over.” 

You grin, quickly getting out of the car, excitement spurring you forward as Nick follows you inside. The smell of grease and fried food greets you like an old friend and you grab a menu to look at as you wait for the hostess to come back from seating another couple to put you at a table as well. 

And just when you think Nick’s done surprising you, you feel the warm weight of his zip-up hoodie land over your shoulders as he tells the hostess that there’s two of you. You look up at him but he’s not paying attention to you, smiling at the older woman as she grabs silverware and says that she has the perfect booth for the both of you to sit at. 

Absentminded. Like he does something like this all the time—putting his hoodie around your shoulders and bringing you to a diner after a bad date. You press your arms through the sleeves, the warm fabric that smells like him is almost completely overwhelming. 

Something changes between you two, you can feel it. You’re not sure you can name it or even grasp it between your fingers, but a transformation nonetheless. 

Before you sit down on one side of the booth, you lean over and plant a kiss to Nick’s cheek. It’s quick, almost a distracted movement, but you mean it. He hesitates in sitting down, watching you take a seat. You can feel the warmth of his skin against your lips, and you resist the urge to touch your mouth as you take a look at the menu again as if it’s the most interesting thing you’ve ever seen. 

“What was that for?” He asks, finally sitting down across from you. 

“Just because.” You reply and enjoy the feeling of his legs leaning into yours under the table as you decide on what to order. 

—

Something shifts. It’s in small smiles, snarky comments, the brushing and grazing of your hands. It’s in the way you tug on Nick’s curls or the way he squeezes your waist in a spot he knows you're ticklish. It’s when he calls you softie as an insult, but he’s smiling. It’s in how you haven’t given him his hoodie back since the night you were at the diner. It’s wearing it in front of him and he makes no move to take it. 

It doesn’t have a name, just a feeling, an emotion that’s heavy and weightless all at the same time. 

—

You knew today wasn’t going to be the best day when you rolled over and saw that your phone died. On a normal Saturday? That wouldn’t be such a big deal, but of course today you promised to help your mother set up for this charity event she’s been talking about non-stop. Again, usually not a big deal? But this afternoon is also the deadline for a summer art program that you've been wanting to sign up for. You can admit it’s your fault for leaving things to the last minute (your portfolio is done, but the essay portion is not). Also? It’s your fault for being interested in such a pain in the ass prestigious program in the first place but…getting into this program could open doors for you that were never even a possibility before. Doors that you didn’t even know existed. 

You have to get in. 

But your alarm not going off because your phone died because you forgot to plug it in creates a domino effect that successfully throws off your whole fucking day. 

You’re flustered getting ready so you burn your hand by pouring coffee on it. Because you’re late to the venue, there’s no parking, so you have to find a spot even further away. The heel of your shoe snags on an uneven patch in the pavement, and you fall straight down, barely catching yourself in time. Sore and late, your mom wants to hear zero excuses when you finally find her amongst circular tables and place settings. 

She keeps you longer than she promised, punishing you for wasting her time this morning and by the time you make it back home? The deadline for submission has passed. 

You just kind of stare at your laptop in disbelief, a red banner with the words SUBMISSIONS CLOSED staring at you like a slap to the face. You draw in a soft breath, trying to laugh over the comedy of errors you suffered today, because what else can you do? You try to tell yourself that there’s always next summer and other programs and…your art is capable of speaking for itself. You don’t need a fancy program to tell you things you already know or to create networks for you. 

You don’t need it. 

You distract yourself with friends, heading over to Jenna’s place to have a bonfire and maybe go skinny dipping. Something a little wild, distracting, fun. You head back inside to make yourself a coffee because there’s a bit of a chill in the air, trying to ignore the slightly red skin on your hand from the coffee mis-hap earlier in the day and draw in a deep breath to attempt to mellow yourself out. 

You’ll settle back outside with your hands wrapped around warm ceramic, listen to Giles tell another ridiculous story about how when he was younger his parents put him into boarding school, and try not to watch how pretty Nick’s features are with the orange glow of the fire on them. 

Tugging your phone out and ignoring a particularly scathing message from your mother about how you did something wrong with the place-settings for the charity gala, you tap open Instagram. Your parents have never been supportive of your art, so it’s not surprising that your mother doesn’t care that you missed out on this art program. She thinks you’re wasting your time and need to plan for a future that’s more guaranteed, lucrative. You bite down, hard, on the inside of your cheek. 

You mindlessly scroll through posts of Instagram accounts you’re following…but then come across a video about the very same summer art program—all the opportunities you’ll be missing out on. You let out a harsh laugh, the sound sneaking up on you, because of course you’d wander onto this after the day you’ve had. You quickly close the phone, but not before your fingers start shaking, a fragile sort of hurt feeling that’s been building up in your chest since this afternoon finally breaking free. 

Trying to breathe through it, you take in a soft breath in through your nose, letting it out your mouth…but your lips are wobbling. And the next intake of air is sharp and painful and you squeeze your eyes shut against the onslaught of tears. A choked sob leaves your chest and you cover your mouth with your hand, attempting to stop this breakdown before it really gets going. But a part of you knows you just need to cry about this in order to feel how you feel and to move on. 

That’s what you’re about to do, turning to head to the bathroom when you hear voices down the hall. They’re walking too fast for you to make it to your destination and suddenly you just have nowhere to go. You straighten your shoulders, quickly turning away to face the coffee pot as Nick and Giles enter, talking about needing more wood for the bonfire. 

You sniffle, wiping your cheek, keeping your back to them. There’s a sudden silence before, “I’ll meet you back outside.” 

Giles makes a noncommittal noise before the sound of his footsteps disappear. Meanwhile, you feel Nick come closer to you before his hand gently wraps around your elbow. You attempt to hide the tears from him but there’s no use. Wiping a hand over your cheek does little to help. 

“Hey, what happened?” He asks softly, his thumb dipping along your inner elbow. 

That simple question cracks open your chest and your face crumbles, chin dipping as your shoulders hunch. All the day’s wrongs just bubble up and over.  Nick moves quickly, taking a step forward to wrap his arms around you, drawing you to lean against his chest. You press your face into his shoulder, all the frustration and disappointment just pouring out of you. You can feel your tears dampen his sweatshirt, but the entire time, Nick doesn’t seem to mind. 

Instead, he’s more concerned with his hand rubbing up and down your back, his fingers threading through your hair, a soft shh against the shell of your ear until you calm down. Until your breathing isn’t so labored. 

He doesn’t pull away until you’re ready, reaching for a few tissues near the sink to place into your hand. A hiccuped sniffle follows and you feel utterly spent from letting yourself go. Distantly, you know you’re a little better, despite that hollow sensation still sitting heavy in your ribs. Nick moves your hair over your shoulder, his hand resting along your neck, thumb brushing back and forth. 

He’s patient, waits until his gaze catches your own before he repeats himself, “What’s wrong?” 

You shake your head, cheeks splotching a bit in embarrassment at having a small meltdown against his chest. You gently touch the fabric of his sweatshirt, sniffling, “Ruined your hoodie.” 

His eyebrows draw together before he gently waves you off, “I don’t care.” The fingers that are still on your neck dip back, putting pressure along your shoulder blades. 

Nick doesn’t ask again, but you know he’s waiting on an explanation. So you take a moment to draw in another breath, concentrate on your voice not shaking, “Today’s just been a really…shitty day.” 

He hums lightly, doesn’t press, even though it’s obvious that there’s a lot to this bad day. You lean against the counter, playing with the tissues between your fingers, and he moves his hand from the back of your neck to trace his thumb across your cheek. 

“I get it,” He replies, “Sometimes I like to have a good cry in the weight room at my house.” It takes a moment for you to realize he’s joking—teasing you, “Good acoustics in there.” 

You can’t help but smile, a soft laugh leaving your lips and Nick’s thumb dips to your lower lip, the corner of his mouth tugging up too. “There we go.” He whispers, like getting you to laugh was his only intention.

You’re both quiet for a few moments, nothing filling the kitchen except the sound of your shared breathing, the hum of the refrigerator, the gentle hiss of the coffee machine after your coffee is brewed. 

“Why don’t you head outside,” He offers, “I’ll grab that for you.” He motions to the coffee with his chin and you nod, finding yourself too tired to deny him. 

—

That feeling that doesn't have a name? You're starting to be able to describe it in words that make sense. But those words are kept to yourself, silent commentary, afraid that speaking them outloud will shatter their meaning. 

—

Turns out, Nick knows exactly how you take your coffee. You didn’t even realize he paid attention to that sort of thing. He hands you the mug as you sit in the grass on a blanket, wearing his zip up hoodie. You assume he’ll find another seat but he places himself behind you, his hands settling on your shoulders. You expect yourself to tense, to feel uncomfortable…but you don’t. 

Instead you notice you lean back into him, into his hands, especially when they start massaging your shoulders. His thumbs press into the tight muscles of your upper back and your head tips a little as your eyes close. If anyone notices that you and Nick are sharing this blanket in front of the bonfire, no one bats an eyelash. You can feel Jenna’s eyes at you at one point across the flames, but it’s gone as quickly as it appears, a small, knowing smile pulling at her mouth. 

You gravitate towards Nick’s touch until you’re tucked back between his legs, his hands still working the tense muscles of your shoulders. You can’t remember the last time you’ve felt so relaxed, at ease, almost falling asleep with this mug of coffee in your hands under his ministrations. Everything seems to fade around you, all the other noise, all the other conversations. 

Your head tips back a little to look at him and his fingers pause, “I can stop.” He offers, because this isn’t…something you normally do with one another. This is part of that something shifting—the fact that Nick has always been a handsy type of person, but now there’s this. Something close and altogether intimate and new. 

You shake your head, appreciate the offer but, “Your touch feels good.” You admit softly, a small smile tugging the corners of Nick’s mouth from your response. 

He nods, continuing to rub your shoulders. That point of connection between your bodies makes your stomach flip and you allow your eyes to close for a few moments, enjoying the warmth of Nick’s body along your back while the heat from the fire kisses your face. 

“You know that summer art program I’ve brought up before?” You mention quietly after a few moments. “I didn’t get my submission in before the deadline closed.” You swallow, running your thumb along the rim of the mug in your hands. 

“It’s my own fault. I procrastinated and then…my whole day was thrown off. Just couldn’t get it done in time.” You chew on your lower lip for a moment. “And I know it’s not like…the be-all, end-all of doing my art but…I was just really excited about it.” 

“You should still apply,” Nick says after a moment, “I’m sure there’s an email or something in which you can send everything in.” 

“Yeah, maybe. But what’s the point? They closed submissions.” 

You can feel more than see Nick shrug his shoulder. “Things change all the time. You never know.” 

Your lips twitch, “That’s very optimistic of you.” You turn just a little to look at him, your breath catching in your chest as it’s confirmed that the orange glow reflecting against Nick’s skin makes him all the more breathtaking. You resist the urge to trace the dark golden rings, almost like honey,  in his curls. 

“Think someone is rubbing off on me.” He mumbles with an eyeroll that is completely for your benefit. 

“Careful,” You smirk, “Wouldn’t want to start calling yourself nice, now would you?” 

Nick purposely bumps your noses together, a laugh sounding through mostly air leaving your nose. “Wouldn’t dream of it.” 

—

You do what Nick suggests—you create a submission anyways and email it. You’re not expecting anything out of it, no need to get yourself wound up in disappointment all over again. Except, then you get an email a week later—apparently there was an extra spot, a place for you, your submission has been counted. You’re in. You’re in the summer art program. 

You stare at the screen for so long that your eyes water. You then jump out of your chair, rushing towards the door to your bedroom. It takes you fifteen minutes to drive to Nick’s house, oddly the only person you want to see to tell this news. You’ll unpack that feeling later, but when you’re let into his place and take the steps two at a time to his bedroom, knocking—

“Did you run all the way here?” He asks, leaning against the doorframe as he watches you catch your breath. 

“I–got—in.” You lick your lips, a grin spreading across them after the fact. 

He raises his eyebrows but he doesn’t look surprised. “You got in?” 

“Yes,” You’re beaming now, like you’re holding the sun in your mouth. Your one hand reaches out and touches his forearm, “The summer art program,” A giggle slips, “I submitted things like you suggested and I got an email, I got in.” 

“Oh so you’re saying you listened to me?” He asks, a smile tugging the corners of his mouth. 

“This is what you’re getting out of that?” 

He shrugs, “Pretty good message—listen to me more often.” 

He’s such a shit but you’re in a really good mood, you don’t even care. You take a step forward and press yourself up on your toes, wrapping your arms around his shoulders. He takes a step back, not expecting the momentum, but he squeezes his own along your waist. He then picks you up and does a half spin, another giggle slipping from your throat before he sets you down. 

When your feet hit the carpet, you’re looking up at him, grin wild on your face, chest pressed against his own. He’s smiling too, his hand cupping your cheek, tracing the corner of your mouth with his thumb. Your heart ricochets into your chest at the simple action and you wish you could blame what you do next on your good mood. 

You lean the rest of the way up and kiss him. 

It’s far too quick and far too soft, you wait for that tell-tale moment where Nick pushes you away. But he doesn’t. Instead, he dips his head down, capturing your lips more firmly, arm that’s still around your waist picking you up against his body. 

Your fingers weave into his curls, tugging, keeping him as close as you can. His hand cups your cheek, slipping down to the back of your neck, his tongue teasing the seam of your lips until it’s rolling against your own. 

A soft noise leaves your throat and that’s all the encouragement he needs to back up into his bedroom, closing the door with his foot.

—

You end up on Nick’s bed, laying on your stomach, Nick on his back. You’re shoulder to shoulder, your fingers playing with one of the curls in his hair. Your lips are still tingling from kissing him, a smile you can’t quite get rid of playing with the corners of your mouth. Regardless how often you and Nick seemed to clash, it felt right, your body against his own like that. 

He turns his head a little to look at you and you brush your thumb along his temple. 

“Sorry I just showed up out of the blue, I was just…excited.” And I wanted to tell you. 

Nick shakes his head, “I’m glad you came here.” He turns to lay on his side, his fingers brushing yours. “What are you excited about the most, with the program?” 

You breathe in, thinking about all the things the summer program has to offer. Different art classes, resources, networking opportunities—you’re not sure which one is standing out to you the most. “I think I’m just looking forward to doing my art in a place that feels like…it sees me.” It’s a quiet admittance. You have your friends, of course, who have always been supportive but…your family? It’s never been like that. 

Nick brings his hand up, brushing it through your hair, tucking it around your ear, “I see you.” He says quietly and you tip your head into his touch. The way he says it sounds a lot like I’ve always seen you. 

A small smile tugs the corners of your mouth as you look at him. “I know.” 

You touch his cheek, playfully pinching his chin between your thumb and pointer finger. He smiles, leaning forward to press his lips to yours. 

___

There’s a set of words, a phrase said in a teasing tone, that lives in the back of your mind, springing forth in the most inopportune times. It conflicts with the fluttering feeling in your chest, clipping wings and sinking to your knees. 

You’re not my type. 

___

When you tell Jenna and Lion, they’re just as excited for you, Jenna rounding the counter in her kitchen to hug you. You squeeze back before pulling away, reaching for the bowl of snacks she has set out to bring outside for the small friend group gathered. Everyone is mostly doing their own thing but the goal is to project a movie outside tonight after the sun goes down. 

“I’m just glad I listened to Nick. Submitted something.” 

Jenna hums warmly. “Never thought I’d hear you say that.” 

You roll your eyes but you’re smiling. “I know, don’t mention it to him again. His ego is big enough.” 

She purses her lips, leaning her elbows onto the counter as she pops some almonds into her mouth. “Speaking of, doesn’t Nick’s dad donate a lot of money to that program?” 

You blink, your mouth opening a little but then closing. Wait. “To the summer art program?” 

Jenna tugs her phone out of her back pocket, doing some googling until she comes across the website for the program, nodding. “I recognize that logo,” She sets her phone down. “Mr. Leister funds some of that with charitable donations.” 

What feels like a stone tumbles into your stomach, a sinking sensation. Did Nick…have his dad pull strings for you?  While you want to be…honored and grateful, and yes you are those things, you also wonder if money just bought you a spot. That you earned nothing on merit, late submission or not. 

“You alright?” Jenna asks, “Y/N?” 

You blink, coming back to focus, that sinking feeling swirling into something sick. You feel your heartbeat tick up, nerves biting into you about this whole thing. The excitement and pride you once felt now seems kind of cheap. You just…if Nick spoke to his dad about this, you’re not sure why he wasn’t just honest with you about it.

“Yeah,” You smile a little, lying through your teeth, “Yeah, I’m okay.” 

—

You are not okay.

And it must be something that’s plain on your face because Nick brushes his hand down your arm, gently tugging on your elbow to step to the side of the patio as everyone begins to sit to watch the movie in the yard. 

He gently guides you towards the back door, where it’s more private, and you can hear the beginning of whatever film is put on, the chatter of Lion tossing out snacks. 

You don’t meet his gaze for a moment, even though you can sense Nick dipping his chin as he tries to get your attention. When you don’t, he reaches out and clasps your cheek, tilting your head back with his thumb until you’re looking at him. 

“What’s wrong?” 

You could deny it, but you know he wouldn’t believe you anyways. You draw in a soft breath, carefully removing yourself from his touch, “Did your dad buy my spot into the summer art program?” 

Nick goes still, his hands returning to his sides as he draws in a breath, your name said in a gentle reply. But it tells you everything you need to know. 

“Oh my god,” You scoff out, running a hand over your cheek. “He did.” 

“It’s not like that,” Nick replies quickly, “I came home in a mood because you were so upset, when my dad asked what was wrong—he was just trying to help. He called the program to ask about spots, realized he could pull some strings. It was a favor.” 

“Nick—”

“He did not buy your spot.” 

“It’s the same thing!” Your voice raises, your cheeks flushing as exasperated tears fill your eyes. You draw in a breath, trying to keep your words from shaking. “I didn’t get in on my merit, on my art.” 

“They wouldn’t have even looked at your art if my dad hadn’t called,” He keeps his voice level, smooth, even though frustration is printed on his face. “Sometimes everything boils down to who you know.” 

Something ugly crawls into your chest, pent-up sourness from previous conversations, from being afraid to trust him, from not quite understanding what you are to one another. You’re upset that he didn’t tell you, that it feels dishonest even though you know he was just trying to look out for you, that he cared you were upset. 

“The point is that you didn’t tell me,” Then without any connection whatsoever, that ugliness spits from your mouth like venom, “Oh I see—is your type not someone who values trust?” 

Nick visibly bristles, his jaw working as you seem to hit a nerve. “For someone who keeps bringing it up, you’ve never outright asked me who my type is.” 

“Tell it to someone who cares.” You snap, moving to pull the backdoor open to head in the house, to leave out the front. 

Nick reaches for your elbow, and even though his touch is gentle, you wrench your arm away, “That’s bullshit.” 

“I’m not interested in someone who lies to me.” 

Before he can get another word in, you close the door in his face, moving quickly and with purpose to head to your car to go home. 

—

You take space and Nick gives that to you. He doesn’t try to chase after you or show up at your house to try and talk. He doesn’t call or text or mention anything to Jenna and Lion. Which is…which is fine. You think you need that radio silence to really figure yourself out. 

Because you’re wrong on so many counts. 

You are interested in Nick and maybe in a way, you always have been. That feeling you could only describe with words finally has a name to them—a few, actually. 

Endearment, fond, smitten—

love-struck. 

—

You head to Nick’s place, a cup of his favorite coffee in your hands, and you’re let inside. Apparently he’s on his way back from visiting his sister, but you can wait in his room if you wish. You do so, taking the steps two at a time and winding your way towards the familiar bedroom. You swallow over an emotion stuck in your throat, pushing the door open. His room is pristinely put together, bed made, everything in its place except for a hoodie tossed onto the bed. You catch whiffs of his shampoo and cologne as you sit down on the edge of the mattress and wait for him. 

When you hear the front door open and close downstairs, you’re almost worried he’s going to turn you away—you suppose you wouldn’t blame him if he did, given how the two of you left things. You draw a breath into your lungs and stand as he rounds the corner, pausing as he sees you. 

“I uhm, I should have texted,” You realized, “Or called or something.” 

He stares at you a moment, licking his lips as his gaze falls to the coffee. 

“Brought you your favorite, it…might be cold now.” 

Nick nods softly but doesn’t take it, glancing past you towards where his closet is. He says nothing as he walks towards his intended destination, leaving you alone in the space. You close your eyes a moment before putting the coffee down on his bedside table, turning to follow him. He’s moving around his closet, clearly getting things out to change into, going about his business like you’re not even there. 

You wring your hands together in front of you, gathering all the strength and nerve you can not to back down and leave, “I’m sorry,” You blurt out. 

Nick lets out a slow breath, turning a little to look at you. His face is stoic but…you think there’s something in his eyes. A warmth there, maybe, which encourages you to continue, 

“I know when you talked to your dad about the summer art program that you just wanted to help,” You take a step towards him, “My pride took a bit of a hit but I shouldn’t have taken it out on you.” You draw in a soft breath, scared that you might have fucked this up. You reach out for his hand, brushing your thumb over a finger that has a silver ring on, “I’m really sorry.” 

“What about the other part?” He asks softly, turning his hand a bit in your grip so that his fingers nearly slot with your own, “That you don’t care who my type is.” 

You huff out an embarrassed laugh, your cheeks feeling hot, “I think we both know what you said is true—utter bullshit.” 

If anything, you think you care a little too much. 

Nick’s quiet for a few moments, his thumb brushing over yours. He doesn’t speak until your eyes find his, “I didn’t think you were my type,” He crinkles his nose, “Any time we watch a movie that has an animal in it, you look up to see if it dies,” Your mouth falls open a little, sort of giving him a slow blink because— “I’m pretty sure you’re at least ten minutes early with anywhere you go—” 

“Uhm, there’s nothing wrong with being early—”

“Even though being on time is perfectly fine. You’re too nice,” He talks over you, squeezing your fingers, “I thought you were going to become best friends with the woman who made your latte the other day.” 

“Carole had a great sense of humor.” 

“She was seventy.” 

You huff, “So?” 

“You’re absolutely wigged out by scary movies, yet you watch them anyways and always want to watch them.” 

“I feel like this is turning into a list of things you don’t like about me.” 

Nick steps closer, crowding your space, so you take a step back until you bump into the storage block that’s in the center of his closet. His hands rest on either side of you, creating a cage with his arms. 

“You’re sweet and passionate and stubborn,” You let out a soft breath, your heart beginning to beat wildly in your chest from what he’s saying and how close he is. “You’re a lot of things that I’m not.” 

“I wouldn’t sell yourself short,” You say softly, your noses bumping, “You’re plenty stubborn.” 

He smiles a little, lifting his hand to cup your cheek, “You took me by surprise—made me want things I didn’t know I could want.” 

Brushing his thumb along your lower lip, your oxygen stutters in your chest, making your body feel warm all over. The press of his own against yours, the heat of his skin, the scent of his cologne mixed with something purely him, the slight height difference he has over you, the way he’s leaning down, the way you feel tucked up against him perfectly. Your gaze zeros in on his mouth—

“You’re my type in every way that matters.” Nick barely finishes that sentence before your lips crash into his. 

A soft groan rumbles in his throat and his restraint crumbles, he pulls at you, picking you up into his arms. He holds you easily, supporting your weight against his chest, carrying you somewhere—

“Where are we going?” You laugh softly against his lips. 

“Where I was headed before you got here,” He nips at your lower lip, “Shower.” 

But he doesn’t take you to the glass shower he has in his bathroom, instead, he gently deposits you right in front of the tub. You raise your eyebrows in soft amusement, running your hand along the edge of the white clawfoot tub. Nick leans over to turn the faucet, feeling the tap and putting the stopper in. 

“What, no bubbles?” You tease, grinning up at him as he shifts over to you. His fingers curl underneath your shirt. 

“Can I take this off?” 

You nod, lifting your arms to help him. The fabric is pulled off in a flourish, tossed to the side before he tugs you closer by curling his fingers into your belt loops. A laugh tumbles out of your chest, your arms loosely wrapping around his waist. 

“What about you?” You ask softly, playing with the fabric of his shirt between your fingers. 

He nods and you work it off his body. A soft sigh leaves your lips, lifting your hand to trace some of the tattoos on his skin, brushing over the silver chain resting on his chest. You lean into him, planting a kiss to the Roman numerals under his collarbone. 

Nick dips his head down, a kiss placed in your hair. 

You stand there together for a few moments, slowly undressing, eventually getting into the tub—and Nick does add bubbles, bright and pink, that smell like roses. An amused smile tugs the corners of your mouth as he sits down first, encouraging you to sink between his legs. A shiver courses down your spine when Nick leans forward, when you can feel the heat of him press into your back, when he plants a kiss on your shoulder. As you lean back against him, you can feel more than hear him sigh, his hand slipping around the front of you, down, down. 

Time spent in that tub is definitely not used for getting clean. 

—

Leaning against the edge of a pool table, you watch as Nick and Lion mix drinks, a small smile tugging the corners of your mouth as you wait with Jenna across the room at another hang-out. Jenna follows your eyesight and playfully nudges you with her elbow. 

“Who knew?” Jenna grins. "Don't get me wrong, I love Nick, but he's different from you in a lot of ways." And sometimes, you know, opposites don’t attract. 

You laugh because she's not wrong. He can be brash, a hothead, a twinge of arrogance wrapped together with pride. But you've also seen him be sweet, gentle, protective and thoughtful. You love the duality, the way he keeps you guessing. 

Nick begins to wander over to you, making his way through the crowd, “He's just my type.” You tell Jenna and kiss him once he's close enough.

[togament]

⤷ ume, sakura, nirei, kiryu, kaji, togame, suo, endo.

"he wants to make you smile so he left you a little note. What'd he write and where'd he hide it? I got you."

⤷ 𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐑𝐄𝐃𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐒: FLUFF FLUFF FLUFF!!!!, g/n reader, suo's kinda scares me ngl, I feel guilty for togame pls be patient with him He Is Trying, ENDO IS SCARY, nirei is very sweet oh MY GOD, all the fluff all the fluffies!!!!!!!

♯ 𝐔𝐌𝐄

"You found it! ◡̈ I just wanted to drop a little sunshine for my sunshine while I go get some sunshine ☼ You're my favorite person in the world and I hope this note makes your heart do a little happy dance like mine does whenever I see you. If you find this (and you did!! Yay!) it means you're awesome and that I'm so lucky to have you in my life. I love you!!!!! Your Number One Fan, 🍑"

Little doodles and happy scribbles!!!! You can tell he was smiling so widely when he wrote everything out for you -- it's like you can feel his happiness radiating from his writing it's very infectious. He just loves you that much.

(hid it in your favorite mug for you to find in the morning when he's out tending to his garden.)

────

♯ 𝐇𝐈𝐑𝐀𝐆𝐈

"Hey, love. Just a quick note to remind you how much I appreciate everything you do. For me and the boys. Your support means the absolute world to me. Don't forget to take your vitamins today -- gotta take care of yourself too, alright? I love you. - T."

Thankful and doting!!!!!! Vaguely smells like him too so you know he kept the note right by his jacket pocket for a while before sneaking it into its rightful hiding spot. His handwriting is sharp and you know he wrote it quick. He probably wrote it while on patrol.

(hid it inside your vitamin case that you use daily so you find it easily.)

────

♯ 𝐒𝐀𝐊𝐔𝐑𝐀

"I'm not really good with this whole cutesy stuff, but I wanted to let you know I'm thinking about you. You make my days better (even if I don't say it right). Love you. Lots. - S. P.S. there's chocolate for you in the fridge :)"

Clumsy and cute, the note has little writing indents of past notes he's written and promptly thrown away. He settled for this one because you're stirring awake beside him and he doesn't wanna get caught lmao

(Has the note hidden in one of the books you're currently reading, right where your bookmark is.) ────

♯ 𝐍𝐈𝐑𝐄𝐈

"Whoops. You found me. Wanted to leave you a little surprise! I'm planning on something fun for us real soon, but until then (tonight!!) I hope this note makes you smile as much as you make me smile every day. You're the best! I can't wait to see you. - your bunny."

Bright and cheery, much like Nirei is. Of course he has something planned for the both of you by the end of the day and he's keeping it a secret... But you know him. Something's bound to slip from his lips when you meet up with him tonight. Promise to act surprised?

(He hides it inside your pencil box because he knows you use it on the daily.)

────

♯ 𝐊𝐈𝐑𝐘𝐔

"Sweetheart! ♡ Surprise! I just wanted to leave a little reminder of how much I adore you. If you find this note, it means you didn't wait for me to play with you ( •̀ - •́ ) kidding! Can't wait to start our new game tonight. I love youuuu!! - forever your Player Two ♡"

Written on a purple and pink post-it, it's spritzed with his perfume. His penmanship is remarkable too. Playful and sweet!!!!! It makes you extremely giddy and excited to meet up with him later. You know for a fact he's got his space set and decked out in fairy lights for your game night. Gotta wait for a couple more hours though UGHHHSHAS

(has it neatly hidden inside the game case of the new game you both have been dying to play.)

────

♯ 𝐊𝐀𝐉𝐈

"Before anything, don't get mushy on me. Just wanted to say you're pretty great and I'm glad you're around. Found this album at the shop. Remembered you saying you wanted to listen to them, so I guess that's my way of saying I care. Listen to it with me later. - Ren. ♡"

neatly written on a post-it note, you kinda think it could be printed out. It's crazy. Short and concise, you can tell he had his brows furrowed when he wrote this for you. He's trying!!!!!! He really is!!!! You know he'd bring some food for the both of you when you meet up. He's a romantic at heart.

(has it taped to the CD he bought for you right next to your player.)

────

♯ 𝐓𝐎𝐆𝐀𝐌𝐄

"I'm probably late again, aren't I? Big surprise. I promise I'm working on it, but in the meantime, I thought I'd leave you a little reminder that you're amazing and that I promise I'll always be worth the wait. Thank you for being so patient with me, doll. I love you. A lot. Bringing your favorite dish tonight. Kame Special. -🐢"

HE'S TRYINGGG AAAASJKDKJASD!!!!!! As you read, you can practically hear the slight purr in his voice and he sounds so apologetic too. HE'S TRYING HE'S TRYINGGJAKJDS he loves his sleep a bit too much, you see. Pepper him in kisses when you meet him tonight. He deserves as much.

(Snuck it inside your planner the night before your date so you'd find it when you go check on your schedule for the day. He's not late for your home date later, by the way.)

────

♯ 𝐒𝐔𝐎

"My dove. Consider this a little hint: I've got a little something special planned for you, but you'll have to find more clues first and follow them. I promise you won't be disappointed. I'll be waiting for you tonight. Wear that dress that I love so much, yes? - Your Hayato."

uH OH. UH OH UH OH. Your man has you working for the surprise but that's such a him thing to do. At least he has something super cute planned by the end of it!!! If he says you won't be disappointed, he means it. HE MEANS IT.

(hid it inside the pocket of your coat that he knows you'll be using today. It's something you'd naturally reach into. Such a Suo thing to plan out.)

────

♯ 𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐎

"Hey there, gorgeous. I know you're in the middle of pretending not to miss me while reading up on this chapter. It's my favorite one, by the way. If you find this note, it means I'm missing you too and totally not hiding underneath your bed or in your closet ᕙ( •̀ ᗜ •́ )ᕗ See you in a sec. - Only Your Yams."

Ominous and teasing, much like Endo is. You kind of wanna check under your bed and in your closet but you know your boyfriend's just out to grab some coffee for the both of you. His handwriting is legible and super neat and he spritzed some of his favorite perfume on the note too. Mmmmm. Sandalwood and smoky vanilla.

(hid it between the pages of your favorite book with your bookmark replaced with a new one he bought for you. One of those fancy ones that can mark the words and stuff. Has to match his.)

a/n: I FINALLY WROTE SOMETHING I FUNALLYNJASDJKASD HUHUHUHUHUUASHKAS thank you for reading through this. I feel very rusty.

[mejaemin]

헤어져 ( •̀ ᴗ •́ ) - pfu

wc: 1.5k

summary: pulling a “let’s break up” prank on bf!svt !! | pfu ver | hhu ver | vcu ver |

warnings: not proofread, breaking hearts UGH THEYRE TOO SOFT CUTIE FOR THIS I CANT, no real breakups, angst? kinda? not really? fear of breaking up, lmk if anything should fr be tagged

an: i lowkey hate how juju’s turned out … but it’s okay!!! i really wanted to get this done bc i found the req funny because just hearing the words “break up” reminds me of the kungkungdda video with atz yunho saying 헤어져… its lit been stuck in my head since the req came in

───── ⋆⋅ ⊹ ⁺ 𐔌 ᩧ ຼ ͡ ৯ ♡໒⁀ ᩧຼ ꒱ིྀ ⁺ ⊹ ⋅⋆ ─────

soonyoung

oh my love, he’d be so confused

you’re lucky the trend happens over text because if you did it in person and saw the pout on his face you’d give in right away !!!

he’s opening his phone after waking up in the morning, swiping his palm over his nose and the rest of his face before checking his notifications, when his heart drops

the first one, from you, saying “let’s talk” … quite ominous, no?

immediately he’s going to your house without asking to go and settle whatever he did right away.

you’ve already distracted yourself, staying busy with absolutely nothing while you leave your phone alone to build suspense. you nearly jump out of your socks when your front door starts wiggling, nearly falling out of the frame when it opens. turning around, you’re met with soonyoung, who’s extremely out of breath, clothes all mismatched as he stands in the doorway.

you rush over to him, “youngie, what are you-“

he cuts you off, grabbing you by your shoulders a little too roughly. his look is so intense yet anxious that he might put a dent in his forehead. “i’m really sorry. whatever i did, please forgive me. but you can’t- well you can, but- just please don’t break up with me, okay?”

immediately upon seeing his face, puffy from sleep and all wrinkled up in concern, you fold, taking him into your arms tightly. “oh soonie, i was joking, i promise.” you kiss his cheek, and his head turns so it lands on his lips. “you didn’t do anything, baby.”

he pulls his head back just enough to look in your eyes, eyebrow raised. “do you promise?”

with his cheeks between your palms you nod, pressing your lips to his forehead, holding them there to show you’re being genuine. “of course. i could never leave you, soonyoung.”

junhui

jun is always so quick to answer your text messages, leaving no time in between before answering you

clearly, when you send him a message saying “let’s break up”, his heart drops faster than it took for him to open the message.

immediately he’s sending a message, full of reassuring words.

“i’m so sorry that something happened to make you feel this way. i’ll be over shortly to talk about it, okay? hang tight, i’ll pick some stuff up on the way. just don’t give up, okay?”

you’re already regretting this at his words, feeling so much love for junhui and the way he takes you so seriously. he may be silly a lot of the time, but he handles serious moments so well. your heart genuinely hurts at the fact that he’s probably so worried right now, and all you’re doing is pranking him. when he gets here, you’ll make sure to give him relief.

there’s a knock on your door, and you rush to open it. junhui is standing there with a small bouquet of flowers and a bag with what appears to be snacks. “i know you might not be interested now, but here.. can we try fixing this?”

once you let him in he sets them down, and as soon as he turns around you’re taking his hands. immediately you’re confessing, seeing his unsure face. “juju.. i was joking. i saw people pranking on tiktok, and i-“

“ahh, i see. i was actually really scared just now.” he chuckles softly, cutting you off. “but forreal, it’s hard to tell tone over text. i’d rather you prank me like that in real life, okay?”

the anxiety fades away, and you’re both all smiles again. since he’s already with you, you sit down together for the rest of the night and spend it watching shows and eating what were supposed to be your break-up snacks.

minghao

we all know minghao’s heart is too tough for a prank as simple and common as this

of course, like anyone who’s madly on love, his heart will pick up at first, but he’s too observant!

you both established healthy methods to communicate the way you were feeling if something about the relationship made you uncomfortable, so when all these keywords and behaviors are suddenly thrown out the window his flags go up

you and him both take preserving the relationship and each other’s feelings seriously so you would never just say “i want to break up”

thus, he plays along

minghao is sitting across from you on the couch, reading a book when you call his name. he looks up, and when he hears you say you want to break up with him, an alarm goes off in his head. he closes the book and sits up straight, grabbing your hands to have a proper conversation.

“can i ask what makes you want to?” he’s so genuine, true concern in his eyes as he tries to hear you out.

you look in your lap, hiding your face while trying to keep up the theatrics. “i just.. don’t feel a spark anymore. i’m falling out of love.”

it’s that sentence that makes him realize what you’re doing. you both agreed that whenever a conversation of this scale occurs, you wouldn’t be vague about whatever you’re feeling. you’d communicate clearly, and make an effort to find a solution.

hiding his smirk, he nods, sighing heavily. “ah, okay. i understand. i’ll give you your space then.” he gets up, a solemn look on his face as he heads to your bedroom. as soon as his back is to you, he’s smirking, amused at the thought of waiting to see how long it’ll take before you crack.

clearly, it’s not long, because as soon as he shuts the door you’re up and running towards him. the door nearly breaks with how rushed you are at opening it, immediately crashing into him. “hao, oh my god, please, i was joking! don’t give me space, please, i don’t want it-“

he cuts you off, grabbing you by your chin to kiss you. “oh, i know, darling. i know every little thing about you, like what you do when you’re trying to trick me. now, let’s not do that again, okay? because i’ll gladly do it back.”

dino

just the idea of pranking chan in this way hurts your heart :(( he’s such a sweet boy !! however…

jeonghan waved quite the pretty penny in front of your face, claiming that it will be yours if you pull the prank on him.

you are very aware of chan being unable to catch a break when it comes to being pranked, but you could only pray that with this nice amount of money, he’ll understand

pulling the prank was definitely painful, though

you’re at an outing with chan and his brothers, hanging out at the porch of a getaway home with some of them. you’re by a fire, drinks in hand as you all chat. when chan notices that your cup is empty, he wordlessly takes it from you to go fill it.

as soon as he leaves, you feel a tap on your shoulder. turning your head, jeonghan is sitting next to you, waving his hand for you to lean in. “i’ll give you…” he digs into his pocket, finding nothing and then reaching into seungcheol’s, taking out a wad of cash and holding it in front of you. “this if you tell chan you want break up.”

immediately you’re looking at him with a bewildered look. why would you ever fumble the sweetest man in the world for money? he’s chuckling at your reaction, waving a hand dismissively. “all jokes, of course, but if you really get him i’ll give you all that. for real.”

jeonghan waves it in front of you once again, and you’ve seen how fat seungcheol’s wallet is. and a few of the digits on those bills were pretty large, so… chan will understand, right? maybe scaring him a little for all this will be worth it, right? you can go out together with your winnings…

you sigh, nodding your head. “fine. but if it ends bad, you’ll clean up the mess. and then i’ll kill you.” you smile, shaking his hand before turning to chan who finally returned.

he hands you your drink with a kids to your forehead before sitting down. “what were you guys talking about?” he’s smiling so sweetly at you, and it makes your heart literally hurt at what you’re about to do.

“chan, i think we should break up.” you’re almost grimacing at yourself, and at that sentence everyone around the fire stops talking. no way the couple who makes everyone believe in true love is about to split.

“um, what..? are you..” he can’t even finish his sentence, swallowing heavily as his vision almost starts shaking.

immediately, being unable to take the torture anymore, you turn to jeonghan, grabbing him by the shoulders and shaking him vigorously. through many complaints, whining and yelling at the elder, you grab the aforementioned money from his pocket.

triumphantly you kiss chan on the lips, pulling away and showing him your new prize. “i’m so, so sorry, channie, truly i would never break up with you, but look what he offered! please say you understand…”

immediately your boyfriend relaxes, eyes narrowing as he looks at the man behind you. “watch your back, han. seriously. that money almost went towards my funeral funds, i swear.”

───── ⋆⋅ ⊹ ⁺ 𐔌 ᩧ ຼ ͡ ৯ ♡໒⁀ ᩧຼ ꒱ིྀ ⁺ ⊹ ⋅⋆ ─────

[azrielsshadows42]

Azriel SFW alphabet

This has been sitting incomplete in my drafts since March so... idk.

Warnings: I don't think there is any other than some self-deprecating, correct me if I'm wrong, unedited

A = Affectionate (how affectionate is he)

Now let's get this straight, this male LOVES you with every fibre of his body and soul, if you need affection he is there in seconds, he is super observant, so you don't even have to ask, he has at least one small shadow that follows you around to make sure you are alright. Whether you just need to hold his hand or you need him to hold you through the night, he has no problems fulfilling your requirements.

When he needs affection however... is another story, he will almost never ask for it, he doesn't want to bother you, and no matter how many times you tell him it's not a bother he will always feel like he is being a burden to you. You will need to learn how to read him better than anyone because he will not make it easy for you.

B = Best friend (what would he be like as a best friend, how does the friendship start?)

He would be an amazing best friend, always knows when you are feeling down and how to cheer you up, it takes a while but once you are close enough the friendly teasing is hilarious. you would definitely have some inside jokes just between the two of you.

At first it would be him only interacting with you when necessary, he will be as polite as possible cause he doesn't want you to be scared of him but he also doesn't really want to spend a lot of time with you 1) Because he has trust issues and is wary of you, it is kind of his job and 2) Because he doesn't want to corrupt you.

C = Cuddles (does he like to cuddle; how does he cuddle?)

Azriel will completely deny it if anyone asks him but... he actually really likes cuddles, this man is so touch starved he NEEDS skin to skin contact. He is perfectly content to just lay with you in the evenings after dinner, admiring your beauty. And while he trains extremely diligently, he secretly loves when he has a good reason not to train so he can wake up next to and actually have a proper breakfast together instead of just leaving a note with promises to see you later.

Once again will adamantly deny it if asked but his favourite way to cuddle is spooning, he likes to be the big spoon, he loves having his arms wrapped around you along with his wings for extra warmth because he knows you love it, just for that extra reassurance that you are safe and haven't disappeared. He could be convinced to be little spoon for a night if you really wanted it, but it would take some pleading.

D = Domestic (Does he want to settle down, how good is he at cooking and cleaning?)

So, I feel like Azriel would absolutely love the idea of settling down, in concept but would be really scared to do so, not because he's unsure of his feelings for you, no not at all, he loves you wholeheartedly sometimes a bit too much he'd be scared because he thinks you might change your mind. That he isn't good enough or he'll taint your innocence what innocence? It will definitely be a few years, maybe even decades before he is certain you won't leave him for someone "better". And even then, he will need reassurance.

Now when it comes to cleaning, this man is over the top, everything is immaculate, there is not a speck of dust to be found.... ever.

But you see with cooking... I don't know, I feel like it could go both ways, he's either stupidly good at it like, bro??? Where did you learn this? Truly Gordon Ramsey level cuisine. Or... he doesn't know what he's doing, at all. He'll try, he will most definitely try to have you come back to a lovely home cooked meal whenever he has the chance to but... it doesn't always ever come out the way he intends it to. But it's the thought that counts and you really can see the effort he put into it.

E = Ending (if he had to break up with you, how would he do it)

There is only one way (other than unfaithfulness) that he will break up with you, and that is if he feels that you, being with him, is putting you in too much danger. This man has waited 500 years for his mate or anyone to love him as wholly as you do, and ending your relationship will absolutely break him. He'll do it very respectfully and considerately, he will seem composed, yet not cold-hearted, but once he's behind closed doors and he is 1000% sure NOBODY can hear him, there will be tears streaming down his face and the only thing keeping him from going back on it is the knowledge that you are safer this way. His shadows try desperately to console him but nothing they do works, only you could calm him once he's at this point.

F = Fiancé (how does he feel about commitment? How quick would he want to get married?)

He has some commitment issues, the idea is daunting to him but he wouldn't be unfaithful to you, even if it would save his life. He would want to wait a few years before sealing the deal, he wants to know you, your soul, every sweet thought and dark desire, he wants to know everything.

G = Gentle (how gentle is he, physically and emotionally?)

Azriel is all about light touches that leave you wanting more, brushes against your arm with his own, light hand holding, small stolen looks across the room, just the sweetest thing. He tries his very best to hide any emotions he might have that would upset you, very aware of whatever emotional state you're in especially when you don't, needs some help to remember that he is allowed to have negative emotions and doesn't have to be ok 24/7.

H = Hugs (does he like hugs? How often would he hug you? What are his hugs like?)

Azriel doesn't mind hugs, if you hug him, he won't stop you and he will sometimes initiate them but, he's more inclined to other methods of affection; forehead kisses, cheek kisses, hand kisses, small adoring whispers in your ear, more kisses, longing looks, did I mention kisses?

However, when he does hug you, it's usually from behind so he has an opening for neck kisses or when he's just come back from a long mission and needs you in his arms.

I = I love you (who is the first to say, "I love you"?)

You. Definitely you, if you don't say it, the relationship is never happening. He will wait for you to spell it out, and even then, he isn't sure, like: you kiss him on the lips, stare lovingly at him, shyly say goodnight and he'd be like, she could have meant that as a friend, right?

Cauldron save this male; he is in Jude Duarte level denial.

J = Jealousy (How jealous is he?)

On the outside, not at all, very calm, collected, the most you'll see is a clenched jaw, or his hand might twitch toward Truth-Teller. Unless you show signs of discomfort, he will let you be.

On the inside? The leash on his anger is being pulled, and it has been pulled tight. There is no room for give on it. It is so taught that if a bird landed on it, it would snap. Whoever is in range should fucking run. And whoever it is aimed at should write their will and pray.

K = Kisses (What are his kisses like?)

Like I've mentioned previously, he loves giving you little pecks at random points of the day. However, when you're alone and he is just looking at you, and that wave of adoration hits him... he just can't help kissing you slow.

L = Little ones (How is he around kids?/Does he want any?)

Az gets really awkward around most kids, he tries not to get too close to them. He gets over this when it comes to kids he spends alot of time with, namely his nephew, Nyx.

Azriel is really scared to have kids, and at first he is completely convinced that he doesn't want any, though with the right person, He'll have kids, and he loves them more than the world itself. He resigns from his position as spymaster to fully commit to his family, he's got enough money, and he never looks back.

M = Morning (How are Mornings spent with him?)

Most days he is already training with Cassian before you wake up, but every Saturday, he has a slow morning wit you, or you'll wake to breakfast in bed.

N = Night (How are nights spent with him?)

Some nights you shower together, and it's sweet and wholesome, you do your skin routine and he'll watch with a smile fro the door way. You even manage to rope him into a nightly face mask later into your relationship.

He says goodnight with a million kisses all over, pulling the blanket over the both of you and pulls you in close, holding you no matter how much you move around in your sleep. If you're a sleep walker, no you're not.

O = Open (When does he start revealing things about himself? Is it all at once or bit by bit?)

Bit by bit for sure. Every small thing you learn about him is earned, there is no volunteering of information. You have to extract the lore, have to practically drag him kicking and screaming into emotional intimacy. There are no flood gates. It is a tap that never runs, only leaks slightly. It takes ages to get to everything that happened to him, but it is worth the wait. It always will be.

P = Patience (How easily angered is he?)

For you, infinite patience, he will explain and re-explain a topic as many times as you need. He just comes back from going out while it's that time of the year and you say you need/want something else again, no worries, he'll go out and get it for you, as well as being ready for you to say you forgot to tell him you wanted something when he gets back and go out again.

You are allowed to do things that no one else could do and walk out alive, like pranking him, and I don't mean something that Cassian would do, like hide a weapon of his, I mean like:

Azriel walks into the room while everyone is chatting. You immediately notice his presence yelling his name in excitement, heads turn toward him. Cassian spits out his drink, Rhysand's mouth falls open, Feyre gasps, Mor's eyes widen, even Nesta raises a brow. It takes a moment, then the shock wears off, and Cassian bursts out laughing.

"What happened to your hair?!"

Azriel's brow furrows. "What do you mean?" He could see you desperately trying to hold in your laughter, but failed, and sunk to the floor, not able to breathe from how hard you were laughing. He could see Rhysand also fighting it off, but his face cracked, and he to, joined in, Feyre and Mor were not far behind.

"What? What is wrong with my hair?" Nobody could pause their hysterics long enough to say something. He stood in confusion until Amren, the only one who wasn't laughing at all said "It's bright blue, boy" that for some reason unleashed a new wave of giggles and Nesta cracked a smile.

He looked to the mirror hung in the hall, seeing that his hair was indeed a pastel blue, with flecks of purple near the ends. The truth was, he knew his hair would be an unusual colour today, his shadows had caught you buying the magic hair-dye, but he let you swap out his shampoo, as to not spoil your fun.

Even if he hadn't known, the look on your face said everything. "You are lucky I love you" he said, shaking his head and sighing, your smile only broadened at his words, your arms flung around his mid-section and face nuzzled in his chest. "I love you too"

Q = Quizzes (How much does he remember things about you? Does he remember everything in passing or does he forget everything?)

Little secret, Az is actually quite forgetful, when it comes to dates like your anniversary or the inner circle's birthdays (Including his own) he cannot remember it for the life of him. Luckily, his shadows give him reminders but when it comes to the details, like your coffee order, preferred foods, general likes and dislikes, it's like he has a separate compartment of his brain allocated to only you with unlimited space.

"How did you know I liked (Input song name here)"

"I remember you humming it when I walked into the room"

"When? I forgot about this song."

Short pause

"Eight years ago? Give or take."

R = Remember (What is his favourite moment in your relationship?)

If you ask him, he'll probably say when you said 'I love you' for the first time, or that time you woke up after a peaceful night, just looking at him with love but really, it was when he was pissed at Rhys and Cassian for disregarding his dislike of the Illyrians because they wanted him to 'embrace his culture'.

Rhys had sent him to go talk with Devlon and a number of other camp lords when they both had the afternoon completely free, spending it with their mates as if he didn't have a mate too.

After he got back, he had gone straight to you, and you had listened to him while combing your fingers through his hair. He had finally dragged himself downstairs to give Rhysand the news on the camps with you following behind him a few paces.

You waited outside the door, Azriel had opened it, about to leave when Rhys said he also wanted the report of some other mission by tomorrow morning. Azriel didn't even say anything, he'd just sighed and a muscle in his jaw ticked, then Rhysand had made some comment about his attitude, it was spoken with a light tone, but you had had it with his crap.

You had started berating him, yelling, really laying on it, not even letting him get a word in. Not that he could, he was too stunned.

Cassian had made the grave mistake of seeing what the commotion was. You brought him into it. Both Rhys and Cass had to just take it like children being scolded for taking an extra cookie. Neither would meet your eyes when you were done.

You grabbed Azriels hand, pulling him along as you stormed out. Once rounding the corner, you winnowed both you and Azriel to your house muttering under your breath. The only words he actually caught was "Fuck them" before you pulled him into bed and you simply cuddled for the rest of the night and well into the morning.

S = Security (How protective is he? How would he protect you? How would he like to be protected?)

Az is your personal body guard and the shadows are the surveillance cameras. No one in Velaris is safer.

He needs no physical protection, he needs emotional protection. He needs you to guard his heart like a dragon guarding treasure. He needs you to occasionally remind him to stand up for himself against Rhysand and Cassian because he deserves good things too.

T = Try (How much effort does he put into dates/anniversaries/etc?)

In the beginning, he is trying to impress you, to convey how much he feels for you through the dates as he struggles to articulate the enormity of his love. Like booking out theaters, really fancy dinners, picnics with way too much food and so on it's honestly overwhelming.

He eventually dials it back, finding a good balance of well thought out but not OTT (Over The Top). Every once in a while though, he'll still do an extra something.

U = Ugly (What is a bad habit of his?)

His tendency to shrink into himself when he's in pain, to ignore his needs, to put what he wants on the back burner to focus on everyone else.

V = Vanity (How concerned is he with his looks?)

See, the massive injustice of Azriel is that he barely gives 2 shit's, as long as he looks somewhat presentable, he couldn't be bothered to do anything more.

He wears the same thing every day, washes his face, combs hair, and he's ready.

He is blessed with effortless beauty.

W = Whole (Would he feel incomplete without you?)

He always felt incomplete, before he met you, there was a hole, after he met you, that hole was slowly filled up with your laugh, smile, and touch. If he had to lose you, that hole would be ten times as large and gaping, because the entire foundation of his very being went with you.

X = Xtra (A random head cannon for them)

He likes hiding little things like your keys or glasses (If you have them) so that when you ask "Azriel, have you seen my {fill in the blank}" he can stand there with said object in hand and give it to you, all so you'll give him that little smile and a kiss on the cheek.

Y = Yuck (What is something he wouldn't like either in a partner or in general?)

He can handle pretty much anything. There isn't much that could actually detour him from someone he truly loves. He puts up with Rhysand and Cassian every day for cauldrons' sake, but the one thing that is necessary is silence.

Not all the time, and he loves talking to you more than anyone else, but sometimes, after a long, hard mission, talking and general conversation is not something he's up for.

He just needs a quiet night where you're just next to each other, not speaking or anything just, existing.

Z = Zzz (What are his sleep habits?)

Whenever he collapses is entirely up to the mother... unless his ultimate weakness coaxes him into something more regular. If you just so happened to ask him to come to bed early, or asked him to be in bed by 11:00 at the latest because you struggle to sleep without him, and with the puppy eyes and pouty face too, well... how could he resist? He can't go after you have fallen asleep because you hold on to him, he can't just leave in the middle of the night, you'd be cold, and when you inevitably request that he stay an extra 5 minutes, those papers on his desk just have to wait, his mate is more important.

[astrow1zar6]

Venus Sign Observations- 011

Venus in Leo’s are those girls in hs you think “how early does she get up to get ready?” You rarely ever see this placement have ugly days they are all so well kept & usually smell incredible. The types to wear their hair in really trendy styles, wear designer outfits and perfumes. BIG on luxury. In a relationship they LOVE being shown off and given lots of attention and compliments. they also love when their partner begs for their attention.

Venus in Libras are really easy to impress lol, all you really have to be is semi attractive. My libra Venus friend every time we go out would be like “OMG THAT GUY IS SOOO CUTE” but say that about 15 other guys that day😂 the women can be VERY obsessed with the opposite sex. They are such flirty people.

Venus in Taurus gives conventional housewife vibes lol. They are into classic feminine hobbies such as sewing, cooking, making jewelry/ clothes, art. If you marry a women with this placement you hit the jackpot.

Venus in Scorpio men tend to be cheaters. Everyone talks about their loyalty but they are only really loyal once they feel they’ve truly found their soulmate (in most cases are rare cuz they’re picky) a lot get bored of their relationships once the passion dies (similar to Aries Venus). They tend to prefer emotionally complex women to keep them on their toes.

Venus in Aquarius’s tend to look really good with circle frame glasses. They pull it off soo well. Also if you have this placement and are looking for new fashion ideas. Look up cyberpunk/Dystopian aesthetic. Y’all would look amazing in that type of style.

Most Venus in Virgos I meet are not big on the physical aspect of love. It takes them SOOO long to open up physically. This causes a lot to get friend zoned. They express their love very differently from most Venus signs which can cause some confusion in their relationships. They are big on acts of service & the intellectual side of love.

Venus in Aries usually always makes the first move when liking someone ( man or woman) they can jump into relationships fast just for it to end just as quick. They really date for the excitement and fun of having a new crush. But once that it becomes deeper than a crush and gets serious most usually back out. Also they can get turned on my arguing. When things become dull they will normally create some issue to keep the sparks alive. To more sensitive signs this can be very draining.

Venus in Geminis are very hard to pin down. I notice their feeling for their partners never seem quite genuine? I notice even in relationships they try to seek out attention from other people. They need a lot of mental stimulation to keep their full attention on one person. And if they’re partner fails to stimulate them they’ll find someone else who can. It’s very rare they catch true feelings for someone but when they do they’re surprisingly loyal.

Venus in Pisces kinda irritate me lol. The men are always talking to different women. They are big on following their heart, but if their hearts tells them to talk to five girls they would😭 it’s very rare to see the men of this placement settle with one woman. The women of this placement I notice are amazing lovers but tend to give it to usually terrible neglectful partners:( I’ve seen women with their placements bust their ass for men that barely give them the time of day.. y’all deserve a lot better than that.

Sagittarius Venus’s tend to date people who are a different ethnicity as them or date from foreign countries. They have a deep appreciation for culture and traveling. So they may also travel with their partner a lot. This is imo the most loyal Sagittarius placement. I’ve seen people be in relationships for years with this placement.

Cancer Venus’s are extremely sweet and nurturing in a relationship. Gives Mommy vibes 🥺. The types to bring you home cooked meals get your bath water running. A lot a notice tend to be very submissive/vanilla. They require a lot of emotional attention and babying even themselves. They types to prefer at home dates compared to traveling or going out.

Capricorn Venus tends to take partnerships like it’s a job (similar to Virgo Venus) they see attending to their partners needs more like a duty which is why they can appear cold in their affections even though they mean well. Emotionally it can be harder to connect with this sign but once they trust you they’ll show you a very sensual romantic side they’ve been hiding. They mostly express love through gift giving. These partners give some of the best most expensive gifts. Just know you’ll be taken good care of if this placement loves you 👌🏽

Venus in Scorpios look AMAZING in black. Any dark aesthetic look great on them. And they may prefer partners with a darker aesthetic as well

Venus in Aries women tend to feel more comfortable having male friends than other women. Usually we’re tomboys growing up

Libra Venus’s are usually really good at makeup or look amazing with a full face of makeup.

[143hyunes]

when you help them shave

includes: ot8 x gn reader

genre: domestic fluff, crack(?), sfw

synopsis: you ask your bf if you can help him shave

warnings: implied established relationship, use of nicknames like baby; babe, lots of kissing, suggestive (lee know & seungmin), mention of blood in han's part, extreme **fluff**

wordcount: 2.5k

a/n: i saw a similar hc a while back, so i was hesitating whether i should upload this for the longest time (i've had this in the drafts since January 😭), my version is different from that one though, i can't believe i'm finally posting this. anyways i hope you like this <33 as always reblogs and feedback appreciated !!

CHAN

Days off with Chan were always eventful. Today was one such day and he was in a playful mood. The razor was in your right hand while you held onto his chin, in order to glide the razor easily across his jaw and cheeks. But Chan had other plans, you yelped out in surprise when he pulled your waist against his naked torso, the razor dropping from your hands, luckily the razor was not near his face and he didn’t get hurt. “Christopher! You could’ve seriously gotten hurt, please don’t do that again.”

“Yes ma’am!” He cheekily exclaimed, saluting you. When his hands went back to your waist again, you gave him a glare.

“What? Can’t I be close to my baby?” He said matter of factly. You sighed, you loved his cute antics, the way he was always seeking out your touch even when asleep, if he could he would never leave your side. “Okay, ok, I guess we can compromise.”

You led him out to your shared bedroom, setting the glass with water and shaving cream on the floor. When he sat down, he guided you to sit down on his lap. After you had settled on his lap, you started your handiwork on his face again. 

“All done.” You say grinning, satisfied with your work. “Finally.” He says before pulling you in for a kiss, the kiss is soft, tender and unhurried.

Both of you stop to take a breathe but don’t pull away from each other, almost sharing the same air. “I love you.” His sudden admission makes you blush. “Like I really, really love you.” He enunciated, nuzzling into your neck.

“Then will you make breakfast and do the dishes today?” He giggles.

“Anything for you baby.”

LEE KNOW

Your boyfriend’s insistence on not keeping a straight face was getting troublesome, you had been trying to shave his face for the past half an hour. He kept making goofy, semi scary expressions, you didn’t know how he could have so much control over his features. “Lee Minho, you’re really going to get hurt and ruin your shirt and it won’t be an accident.”

“I won’t hesitate to resort to violence.” You warn him again.

That seemed to make him stop but you should’ve known better, his hand had sneaked around you to get the bottle of the shaving foam. You dodged just in time but his attacks didn’t stop after his failed attempt. He finally managed to get the foam on your face. “You’re such a brat.” You scoffed.

You had to restrain him, that’s the only way you could get work done. Your left hand held both of his wrists behind his back while you used the right to shave his face, you tried to finish as quickly as possible because he could easily break free from your “constraints”. He played along though and was surprisingly cooperative. “Damn, babe I didn't know you were into that kind of stuff.”

“Shut up.” You knew you would not hear the end of it and soon his friends would also start teasing you. After you were done, you playfully, lightly slapped his right cheek. He sent you a skittish glare before caressing your neck and leaning in. You thought he would kiss you but he pulled away at the last moment. 

“Ugh,, you’re such a menace.”

“You know you love it.” You begrudgingly agree, giving his lips a chaste kiss.

CHANGBIN

“Bin, Bin!” You slowly shake his shoulders.”Don't fall asleep on me when I’m shaving your face.” You say while cupping his face, he leans into your touch giving your palm a soft kiss.

“Mhm hmm.” He hums.

You dutifully start shaving the side of his jaw again, when you clean the razor of the foam on it, you feel soft curly hair and hot breathe on your neck as he lays his head down on your shoulder.”Oh my baby is really tired, isn’t he?” You coo, your fingers massaging his scalp and he only lets out a cute grunt still laying on your shoulder. 

“Tell you what, if you let me finish shaving your face, I’ll make pancakes with chocolate chips for you.” That seems to wake him up and he obediently faces you. You laugh at his antics, the way to his heart was truly through food. 

You quickly shave the remaining hairs on his face and give him kisses all over his face. You watch as he snuggles back into the sheets, he looks so cute and endearing, you just want to bite him.

You make the pancake batter and add chocolate chips to it. You flip the last pancake and add it to the stack. Pouring his favourite apple juice into a glass, you take it and the plate of pancakes to him, you knock on the door to wake him up. He gives you a smile that you would kill for. 

His takes his first bite and smiles up at you again. “Really delicious, babe.” he says his mouthful of the pancake, he lifts his fork up for you to taste your creation. He always does this, sharing his food and feeding it to you too. 

After he’s done eating, he convinces you to take a nap with him. You can never resist him and the way his arms around you make you feel warm and safe. Slumber soon finds the both of you as you cuddle.

HYUNJIN

Hyunjin’s leaning against the wash basin, lowering his body so you can easily shave his face, he holds onto your waist for support. His hands are rubbing small circles on your waist and he’s humming along to one of your favourite songs that plays from the bluetooth speaker. Quiet nights like this where you have his undivided attention make you so giddy. 

Hyunjin always liked to hold intense eye contact, something that made you very shy at the start of you guys’ relationship, it still flusters you. His intense gaze on you right now was making your cheeks heat up, you’re always curious as to why he does that, so you decide to ask him right now.

“What? Why are you looking at me like that?” you meekly ask him, the scrutiny of his gaze making you timid. 

“Nothing, you just look so cute while you’re concentrating on something.”

That makes you stop, your blush deepening at his confession. “But you always look at me like that.”

He seems to ponder over his next words, his lips and eyebrows quirking up, making him all the more endearing. A stray strand of hair falls into his face and you tuck it behind his ear, cupping his face. 

“It’s because I love you, I’m trying to commit your face to my memory, so you’re there even when I close my eyes.” He finally answers.

Sometimes you feel overwhelmed by the love he has for you, this feeling making you feel full, akin to having a meal with your loved ones where after your hunger is satiated due to the good food and the hearty conversations. 

Still cupping his face you lean in to kiss him, trying to convey your love and feelings you cannot describe through the kiss. And he understands, like he always does, both of you were so attuned to each other’s emotions and mannerisms like you were cut from the same clothe.

He breaks away from the kiss only to go back to kiss your forehead. It had become his 2nd favourite spot to kiss you, after you had let it slip one such night that you really liked forehead kisses because they made you feel loved and safe. 

HAN

Han had had a very eventful day today and you could tell from the way he was so excited to tell you all about it while you shaved his facial hair. He was a ball of energy even at the end of the day, his animated gestures making you smile.

He seemed to forget that you held a sharp razor in your hand and turned his head abruptly, you pulled your hand away but it was not soon enough.”Ow!” He yelped out in pain.

The razor had scratched his skin, making it bleed; fortunately the cut wasn’t too deep.

You remove the first aid kit from the bottom drawer, using the alcohol you clean his wound. It hurts your heart when he flinches from the sting of it, but you proceed to apply antiseptic cream to his wound, softly blowing on it, in hopes that it would hurt less.

You kiss the mole on his left cheek, you couldn’t resist it. He smiles, his thumb caressing your cheek.

“I’m sorry, I should’ve been more careful with the razor.”

“Hey, it’s not your fault babe, I should’ve been more attentive and not move around so much.” He reassured you, kissing your forehead.

“Let me kiss it better, unless it doesn’t hurt too much?” You grin cheekily.

He suddenly clutches the side of his face, acting like he’s in indescribable pain.”Oww, Y/N it hurts really bad, only my baby’s kisses can heal me now.”, he exclaims with a pout.

You giggle while kissing his soft lips, he leans into the kiss, holding your face.

Later you did each other’s skin care routine, you were of course careful of his wound, not wanting to hurt him. You spent the rest of the night watching anime cuddled up beside each other.

FELIX

Felix really liked being taken care of. The blush that creeped up his neck when you asked him if you could help him shave his face today, was indication enough. And you liked taking care of people. You were perfect for each other. 

The razor hovers just before his jaw while he looks at you with such a loving expression that it floors you. He looks so adorable even with his bed head, the sunlight streaming in through the bathroom windows, making his skin glow. The freckles on his face truly shining like constellations in the night sky. You were hit with a huge wave of love for him, you just couldn’t not kiss him, not when he looked at you like you had put up all the stars in the sky. So you did, feeling lucky to call him yours.

He smiled into your kiss, returning it with the same fervour.

“I love you, Lixie.” He only giggles, blush deepening. 

“Oh really? What a coincidence, because I love you too, baby.” His voice was deep and gravelly after the long hours of sleep and it was driving you crazy would be an understatement.

You only realise that you have shaving foam on your face when he wipes it off you, his movements delicate. You must have gotten it on you when you kissed him. 

After you were done, he made breakfast for the both of you, scrambled eggs for him and sunny side up for you. You loved how domestic all of this was and could imagine spending the rest of your days like this, basking in each other’s love. What you didn’t know was that Felix shared the same thoughts as you, already planning your future in his head.

SEUNGMIN

Seungmin was very apprehensive of the idea of you shaving his face, you were naturally clumsy and he was afraid you would abrade his skin.

“If I get hurt I’m suing you.”

“Kim Seungmin, do you want to sleep on the couch tonight?”

“No.” He says begrudgingly.

“Then you will listen to what I say.”

You gently drag the razor across his face while he stands as still as a statue. He really is afraid of you hurting him, so you decide to tease him. You flick the foam on his jaw and giggle when it lands on his hair. It looks like he has a cloud on his head, when your hand again goes to flick the foam, he grabs ahold of your wrists. “Why’re you such a brat today?”

“I just really like teasing you, Seung.” You say directly looking him in the eyes, his right hand holding onto your wrist, in between your faces. 

Releasing the grip on your hand, he leaned down, his hair touching yours and now you too, had a cloud on top of your head. “Now we’re even.”

“Hey! Not fair, you attacked when I was distracted!”

“You’re the one who started it.” He says while crossing his arms. He towered over you though it was not much, you caught him off guard when you tickled his sides. Soon enough, it turned into a tickle battle and both of you were out of breathe. 

You had no idea how it happened but he had somehow managed to cage you between his arms, your back against the glass wall of the shower. “You’re really such a brat.’ He says raising your chin with his pointer finger. “But it’s ok. I actually like it.” Before you know it, he’s leaning into kiss you. 

You don’t know how he could be so passionate with his kisses so early in the morning, his tongue fighting for dominance with yours. 

“I like being a brat for you too.”

JEONGIN

It was a lazy day in and you were cuddling with your boyfriend, when you had the idea to shave his facial hair. “Can I shave your face?” You asked as you looked up at him from where you lay on his chest. He makes a distinct sound of agreement to your question.

“Okay, let’s go.” You say pulling at his hand.

“Now? But I’m so comfortable.” He says pouting.

“What can I do to convince you?” You say nudging his side.

“Can we pleasee have Mc Donald’s for breakfast?” He asks, flashing his signature charming, dimpled smile.

“Hmm, it’s not healthy, you know that baby.”

“But-I’m also craving a hash brown. Oh what the hell, you only live once.” You say giving in.

He gives your cheek a kiss when you agree to his peculiar request.

Both of you decided to place the order after you were done shaving, since the food arrives fast. 

Jeongin was really compliant and before you knew it you were done, it was going surprisingly smoothly. He must have really wanted to eat his favourite shrimp burger.

You, however, soon realised that you had spoken too soon, as your boyfriend’s hand collided with dirty soap water and it almost spilled on you. Luckily for you his reflexes were strong and he caught the glass before it could spill on you.

“You’re such a klutz, babe.” You tch, teasing him.

“That’s not how you treat your saviour.” He haughtily replies, a lilt in his voice.

“You’re also the one who put me in harm’s way.”

“Okay, fair enough. Can we please order Mc Donald’s now?”

You go to the bedroom to find your phone and place the order. When food finally arrives, the smile on Jeongin’s face is so big that it makes you smile too. Lazy days would always be the best as long as your boyfriend was with you.