#minus the fact that they make me miserable all around

[kiame-sama]

Warnings; bg3, full party (because I want them all there to talk), Druid Tav*, Slight druid path spoilers I guess?, Owlbear, Protector type Tav, yandere companions (ALL of them), basic identity spoilers for first act followers, slight early story spoilers, they/them reader, yandere Raphael makes an appearance too.

* Tav is the name that always appears in the character generator first, so technically Tav is the unofficial term for the player character- or Reader in this scenario.

~~~~~~~~

The large owlbear lumbered slowly amongst the fallen undead, using the sharp beak to pick around the bodies for anything useful. Of course, not everything picked up by the defacto leader of the group was typically deemed useful. Such was the way of the unusual soul the group found themselves following the every whim of.

Countless battles had been won with their leadership and each companion had true respect for their leader, even if respect for the other companions was variable. To take them from desperate and hopeless about their plight to truly believing they could succeed their impossible mission. Each odd soul brought in to the fold by the odd druid may not believe, but they believed in how much their leader believed. For them, this was enough.

This meant that when their trusted leader wandered around as a creature that could feasibly carry three of them, they just followed along and grabbed what they wanted if their leader didn't pick it up first. They trusted their leader to distribute loot and treasure adequately based off of who could best use what was collected. Still, that didn't make the experience any less surreal, even for those who were familiar with druids that favored their bestial forms.

"Astarion, do you ever feel like we, as a group, just adapt to everything around us a little too well?"

Gale, the wizard of the group walked next to the rogue vampire spawn, his arms crossed in a contemplative way. Never before would he have imagined himself having light banter with such a being without bloodshed, but here he was regardless.

"Do tell me you are joking, right?"

"No, should I be?"

"God's, Gale, we're all stuck here as a group with only one thing in common- the fact that we're facing impossible odds to simply survive- and we can barely keep ourselves from killing each other. On top of that, just what do you think we're doing right now? Hm?"

"... Collecting the spoils of our battle?"

There was a distinct moment of silence as the beautiful vampire spawn stared at the wizard with a look of disbelief and disgust. The apparent pause catching the attention of the rest of the party- minus the owlbear lumbering ahead of the group- as they all decided to listen in. It was good fun to hear the others squabble and it gave a sense of comradery despite the situation they were in, misery loving company in most ways, though things weren't seeming too miserable now.

"We are in a temple that is inside of a crypt- some depth underground- picking amongst the remains of reanimated corpses that have all been stomped to death by our Owlbear leader. Not to mention this leader who just so happens to be the most balanced person among us and somehow isn't corrupt as all hells while doing it."

Some of the others nodded along in their own ways, knowing Astarion's assessment wasn't too far off from the crux of the situation they found themselves in. A few cast glances at the afore mentioned owlbear leader who seemed rather content rooting through what little remained from their earlier rampage.

"And they're hot as the hells while doing it."

Karlach, the literal flaming tiefling barbarian, commented, putting herself in the conversation with a wide grin.

"You're one to talk, Karlach," Wyll playfully jabbed back, "You've literally got fire coming out of you!"

"You know I'm right though!"

"Well, I didn't say you were wrong."

Before the two could continue, Astarion cut them off, bringing the now group conversation back to Gale.

"Anyways, my point still stands. We are not the ones who make this all work. They make it work for us. We are stuck together- like it or not- and they call the shots. We can get used to anything because they can get used to anything. Don't pat yourself on the back too hard now, it might get you excited."

Gale slightly winced at that jab, given the fact that he was the most obvious about being smitten with the group leader, and yet his beloved was completely unaware of how hard he had fallen. How hard they all had fallen.

"Are you all fools," Shadowheart hissed in a low voice, "you know they can hear us, right?"

It was Lae'zel's turn to bark out a laugh, her lips curled in a sly grin as she regarded the Sharian cleric. It gave the Githyanki soldier a sense of satisfaction to know something about their leader the cleric didn't.

"They can't understand us in that owlbear form. Why else would these fools talk so plainly?"

Unknown to them, their leader could understand them, but simply didn't want to cause in-fighting or favoritism to arise. So they simply carried on as if unaware of the conversation, just trying to focus on finding what was salvageable.

Unknown to them all, a demon watched from the rafters. His arms were crossed and a grin played across his lips. He had to admit, that druid was certainly a fetching prize as they clearly enamored not only their mismatched companions but him as well. Time would leave him the last among them by the druid's side, he would ensure it. Besides, he had plenty of time to wait.

[nickeverdeen]

Helloo Can I make a request? Seamus Finnigan and the female reader. Reader is a Slytherin. In fact, Seamus has had some feelings for the reader for a long time. But he doesn't want to admit it because she's a Slytherin and has an infamous surname. But she's a good person at heart. Ehh one day, reader sees the 'classic' mishap experienced by Seamus in potions class. She offers to help him because we know Snape is always ready for minus intervention.~

Bad Blood | Seamus Finnigan x female!Slytherin!reader

Warnings: discrimination, a bit cheesy

—————

Seamus Finnigan had always prided himself on being able to take things in stride. Growing up in a magical household, he had experienced his fair share of magical mishaps, and being at Hogwarts only seemed to amplify that tendency. Yet, no class was as prone to disaster for him as Potions.

Professor Snape’s dungeon classroom was filled with the usual dark and eerie atmosphere, which did nothing to ease Seamus’s anxiety. The flickering candles cast long shadows over the rows of cauldrons bubbling with strange concoctions. As he prepared his ingredients, Seamus couldn’t help but glance around nervously.

Today’s lesson was a particularly complex potion, one that required precision and patience—two things Seamus often struggled with. He had already managed to singe his eyebrows once this term, and the prospect of another mishap was looming over him like a dark cloud.

He cast a quick look at the Slytherin side of the classroom. There, standing with an air of quiet confidence, were you, a Slytherin girl with an infamous surname. Seamus had heard all the stories about your family, but despite the whispers and the reputations, he had seen a different side of you. You were kind-hearted, and your (e/c) eyes always seemed to hold a hint of sadness, as if you bore the weight of your family’s name with a quiet dignity.

Seamus shook his head, trying to focus. “Concentrate, Finnigan,” he muttered to himself, measuring out a pinch of powdered bicorn horn. As he added it to his cauldron, a puff of green smoke erupted, followed by a loud bang. Seamus staggered back, coughing and waving his hand in front of his face to clear the air.

“Finnigan!” Professor Snape’s voice cut through the chaos like a knife. “What have you done this time?”

Seamus’s face turned bright red. He could feel the eyes of the entire class on him, and the weight of their judgment was almost unbearable. “I—I think I added too much bicorn horn, Professor,” he stammered, glancing at the blackened mess in his cauldron.

“Detention, Finnigan. And ten points from Gryffindor,” Snape said, his voice dripping with disdain. “Clean up this mess and try not to destroy the classroom in the process.”

Seamus nodded miserably, starting to gather his things. As he did, he felt a gentle tap on his shoulder. He turned to see you standing there, your expression one of genuine concern.

“Hey, Seamus,” you said softly, your voice carrying none of the mockery he had expected. “I saw what happened. Do you need some help?”

He blinked in surprise. “You want to help me?”

You nodded, offering a small smile. “I’ve always been pretty good at Potions. And besides, I think Snape is just looking for reasons to take points from Gryffindor. It’s not fair.”

Seamus hesitated, glancing at your outstretched hand. It felt strange to accept help from a Slytherin, especially one with your family’s reputation. But the sincerity in your eyes was hard to ignore.

“Thanks, Y/N,” he said finally, returning your smile. “I’d really appreciate it.”

Together, you set to work cleaning up the mess. As you worked, Seamus found himself glancing at you more and more, noticing the way your hair caught the light and the determined set of your jaw. Maybe, just maybe, there was more to you than the rumors suggested.

Over the next few days, Seamus couldn’t stop thinking about Y/N. Your kindness and willingness to help him in Potions had left a lasting impression. He found himself looking forward to your next class, hoping for another chance to talk to you.

One afternoon, as he made his way to the library to finish some homework, he spotted you sitting alone at a table, surrounded by books and parchment. You looked deep in thought, your quill moving swiftly across the page.

Seamus hesitated for a moment before walking over. “Hey, Y/N,” he said, trying to sound casual. “Mind if I join you?”

You looked up, your face lighting up with a smile. “Of course, Seamus. Take a seat.”

He sat down across from you, feeling a bit nervous. “What are you working on?”

“Just some Potions notes,” you replied, pushing a strand of hair behind your ear. “I’ve got a few ideas for improving that potion we did last week.”

Seamus nodded, impressed. “You really know your stuff.”

You shrugged modestly. “I’ve always enjoyed Potions. It’s like a puzzle, trying to figure out the right combination of ingredients.”

You fell into a comfortable silence, each working on your own assignments. As the minutes ticked by, Seamus couldn’t help but steal glances at you, admiring your focus and determination.

Finally, he mustered up the courage to ask, “Y/N, can I ask you something?”

You looked up, your eyes meeting his. “Sure, Seamus. What’s on your mind?”

“Why did you help me in Potions the other day? I mean, you didn’t have to. Especially since I’m a Gryffindor and you’re a Slytherin.”

Your expression softened. “I helped you because I wanted to, Seamus. I don’t believe in all that house rivalry nonsense. We’re all students at Hogwarts, and we should look out for each other.”

Seamus felt a warmth spread through his chest at your words. “That’s really kind of you, Y/N. I appreciate it.”

You smiled, reaching across the table to squeeze his hand. “Anytime, Seamus. If you ever need help with Potions, or anything else, just let me know.”

He nodded, feeling a surge of gratitude and something else—something he wasn’t quite ready to admit to himself yet. But one thing was clear: you were different from the other Slytherins he had known, and he was glad to have you as an unexpected ally.

As the weeks went by, you and Seamus found yourselves spending more and more time together. You often met in the library to study, and you would patiently help him with Potions, guiding him through the more complex recipes.

Your friendship grew, and with it, Seamus’s feelings for you. He found himself looking forward to your time together, cherishing every moment. But he couldn’t ignore the nagging doubt in the back of his mind—how would his friends react if they knew he had feelings for a Slytherin?

One evening, as you walked back to your common rooms after a particularly challenging Potions session, Seamus decided to take a chance. “Y/N, can I ask you something?”

“Of course, Seamus. What is it?”

He took a deep breath, his heart pounding in his chest. “Do you ever feel like people judge you because of your family name? I mean, I know there are a lot of rumors, but I’ve seen the real you, and you’re nothing like what people say.”

Your expression grew somber, and you looked down at the ground. “All the time, Seamus. It’s hard living up to the expectations and trying to prove that I’m different. But I’ve learned to ignore the rumors and focus on being true to myself.”

Seamus nodded, understanding your struggle. “I think you’re amazing, Y/N. And I’m glad we’ve become friends.”

You looked up, your eyes shining with gratitude. “Thank you, Seamus. That means a lot to me.”

You reached the entrance to the Slytherin common room, and you turned to face him. “Goodnight, Seamus. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Goodnight, Y/N,” he replied, watching as you disappeared behind the stone wall. As he made his way to the Gryffindor tower, he couldn’t help but smile, feeling a sense of hope and anticipation.

Seamus’s feelings for you continued to grow, and he found it increasingly difficult to keep them to himself. He confided in his best friend, Dean Thomas, who listened patiently and offered his support.

“Seamus, if you like her, you should tell her,” Dean said one evening as they sat by the fire in the Gryffindor common room. “Life’s too short to keep things bottled up.”

Seamus sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I know, Dean. But what if she doesn’t feel the same way? And what about the house rivalry? You know how people can be.”

Dean clapped him on the shoulder. “You can’t let other people’s opinions dictate your happiness, Seamus. If you care about her, that’s all that matters.”

Encouraged by his friend’s words a bit, Seamus decided to take a chance. The next day, he asked you to meet him by the Black Lake after classes.

As you sat on the grassy bank, watching the sun set over the water, Seamus took a deep breath. “Y/N, there’s something I need to tell you.”

You turned to him, your expression curious. “What is it, Seamus?”

“I’ve been thinking a lot about us,” he began, his voice trembling slightly. “And I realized that I have feelings for you. I know it might sound crazy, but I can’t ignore it anymore.”

Your eyes widened in surprise, and for a moment, you were silent. Seamus’s heart raced, fear and anticipation mixing in his chest.

Finally, you spoke, your voice soft and filled with emotion. “Seamus, I’ve had feelings for you too. I was just too afraid to admit it.”

Relief and joy washed over him, and he reached for your hand, intertwining your fingers. “You don’t know how happy that makes me, Y/N. I was so scared you wouldn’t feel the same way.”

You smiled, “I’ve wanted to tell you for so long, but I didn’t know how. I’m so glad you took the chance.”

Seamus pulled you into a gentle hug, feeling your warmth and the steady beat of your heart against his chest. In that moment, he knew that you could face anything together, as long as you had each other.

As you and Seamus navigated your new relationship, you faced several challenges. The house rivalry was ever-present, and you often received curious looks and whispered comments from your classmates.

You continued to spend time together, finding solace and joy in each other’s company. Seamus cherished your moments of laughter and shared interests, while you appreciated his unwavering support and understanding.

One day, as you walked through the castle corridors, Seamus noticed a group of Slytherins whispering and pointing in your direction. He felt a surge of anger and frustration but took a deep breath, reminding himself to stay calm.

You squeezed his hand, offering him a reassuring smile. “Don’t let them get to you, Seamus.”

“I know,” he replied, his voice determined. “But it’s still hard.”

You nodded, understanding his struggle. “We’ll get through this together.”

[ryuichirou]

I do remember how Azul one of two housewardens to be top so he can literally be ship with all but Kalim. Same goes to Kalim. Now I want to see a headcanon of Azul and Kalim with the other housewardens relationship besides the mentioned like with Azul and Idia.

The fact that you keep that in mind, Anon! I myself keep forgetting about it omg, Azul, Kalim and a bunch of bottoms… and if we’re talking overblot boys, it’s just Azul and some bitches 😔 What a flower garden.

This is a fun ask. I’ll try to talk about every possible ship that isn’t usually mentioned in our blog or mentioned very briefly. Well, minus Azul/Malleus because we just talked about them a day ago lol And Azul/Riddle because we have some posts about them too.

Looking at the list… it’s mostly Kalim/everyone huh lol

Azul/Leona. It’s difficult to picture them this way, but if they were to miraculously end up being a couple, it will 100% be out of mutual benefit. Plus, Azul would use it to prepare his revenge because he isn’t over the whole sanding contracts thing. Leona knows that, and he fully expects Azul to try to backstab him sooner or later. It’s giving “Scott Tenorman must die”, somehow.

Azul/Vil. This relationship either would end after one hour or would survive surprisingly long. They have a lot in common whether they like it or not, but Azul is too fake for Vil’s liking, and Vil doesn’t mince his words which Azul doesn’t like because Vil isn’t as easy to bully as Idia. Still, Vil enjoys how hardworking and dedicated to self-betterment Azul is; and people in the press would probably consider them to be quite a striking couple… still, they would drive each other insane lol

Kalim/Riddle. It’s like they’re speaking different languages. It’s super difficult for them to understand each other because both of them are kind of impulsive in different ways. But when they have fun, it’s good! Riddle’s inner child really thrives around Kalim whenever he relaxes a little bit, but that always ends with Riddle being super nervous about all the rules they broke. Kalim is chaotic and irresponsible… even though Riddle really loved riding the carpet with him :( They wouldn’t break up though because Kalim would misread Riddle’s attempts at having the talk with him and understand it as something completely different. He likes Riddle a lot! If only he relaxed and had fun more often :)

Kalim/Leona. If they miraculously end up together because of how oblivious and positive Kalim is and because of how passive Leona is, they could end up dating for years… Kalim is that force that takes Leona’s sarcastic comments literally and does whatever he was being sassy about, and to Leona’s shock, somehow he ends up going along with it. How did that happen again? Maybe this is how they ended up dating.

Kalim/Vil. Even if they start out like a couple, Kalim will end up being mothered by Vil. And this isn’t the kind of overprotective and through-the-teeth mothering that Jamil does: Vil-the-mom is strict and very focused on discipline, so I think both of them would experience a cultural shock lol Vil knew things were bad, but was it that bad?... Similarly to Kalim/Riddle though, when it’s time to have fun, they enjoy each other a lot. They dance and sing and Kalim even manages to make Vil laugh… but the rest of the time it gets kind of miserable for both of them.

Kalim/Idia. I want this for Idia, to be honest. I genuinely want this for Idia. This would be such a shitshow though because Kalim has zero understanding of how Idia works; pardon me for a clichéd comparison, but it’s like putting an excited loud puppy in a room with a sheepish scaredy cat. But actually, I think Kalim is smart enough to ask Idia to teach him how to play videogames one day, and even though he would be horrible at it, he would have so much fun failing miserably that maybe… Idia’s heart would melt a little… and then instantly cringe.

Kalim/Malleus. Shameless. Well, Kalim is pretty innocent about it, but Malleus is shameless. He is very satisfied with all the attention he is getting. Everyone around them? Confused and mildly scared, wondering if Kalim even knows what’s going on between them. Kalim? Super excited to have 1000 dates with Malleus, give him all kinds of cool gifts, dance with him and feed him a lot of yummy ice cream. Malleus responds very well to this kind of treatment, so Kalim would go all-out! They would either end up being a power-couple (Kalim would still be very oblivious…) or break up after a while because while Malleus enjoys attention, Kalim just isn’t as reactive to his flirty provocations as he would’ve loved… plus he has too many friends >:(

[jomiddlemarch]

Alina and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day 

Alina was fairly certain that kindergarten pickup was actually a level of Hell. One of the deeper ones, though she had to admit that waiting for the divorce to be finalized and the week in February that Mal had been away at a conference in Hawaii when Eli got the stomach bug and she’d run out of orange Pedialyte, Clorox, and episodes of Elmo’s World just as she’d succumbed were both worse. She’d gotten a tee-shirt out of the conference and not herpes, so it was slightly ahead, which was the kind of thing she’d say that would make Gen tell her she really had to stay in the here and now and focus on herself and Eli; the fact that focusing in herself to Gen always meant some form of hot/stone/the feminine Divine yoga plus or minus a green smoothie was something Alina figured she just had to suck up as part of the best friend code. Especially if she wanted (needed) Gen to remain on Eli’s emergency contact list and deal with kindergarten pickup if Alina had a deadline or her car decided to call her bluff on her perpetually overdue oil changes.

She’d actually finished the article on affordable housing while sitting at the oil change place, wondering from time to time how oil change places still existed and why they still had a TV mounted on the wall when everyone was on their phone, earbuds in, podcasts and memes washing over them as digital sedatives. When she’d said anything like that at home, Mal would accuse her of being a Luddite, while continuing to shoot some monster on his gaming PC, and she’d launch into an explanation of why the Luddites got a bad rap and remembering it, she once again rejoiced in the finalization of the divorce, despite everything else it had cost her, starting with her rosy ideals about happily-ever-afters. In the timeless, nameless oil change place, happily-ever-after seemed like something that wouldn’t even appear on the TV as an infomercial. On the flip side, she wasn’t worried her car would die in kindergarten pickup.

Instead, she wished for death. Or something that would free her from her misery, besides the over-priced pistachio latte that she promptly spilled as soon as she got out of her car, half of it landing on her already dingy sneakers. She was surrounded by totally put-together, mani-pedi-ed moms in Lululemon or power suits or hand-knit sweaters and $300 jeans, with younger siblings in the latest paisley slings, Labradoodles with monogrammed collars off-leash and milling about, the same women who’d post their freshly washed and fashionably dressed kid holding a “First Day of X Grade” chalked on adorable chalkboard pics on social media. She’d waffled for a good ten minutes over the latte, since it really wasn’t in her budget and almost certainly was contributing to climate change and her chances of developing Type II diabetes, and all for what? Turning her greyish sneakers a bilious shade she associated with Dickensian misers with gout and getting her hands sticky.

“One of those days,” she heard, a man’s voice drifting down from behind her left shoulder. Before Alina could twist around or even cant her neck upward to see who was talking to her, he’d offered her an unopened pack of travel wet-wipes.

“Uh, thanks,” she said, peeling back the sticker closing the wipes and dabbing at her cuff of her cardigan. 

“Sorry about your coffee,” the man said. He’d moved into view, tall and dark-haired with a neatly trimmed beard, a sporty fleece vest layered over what he had to have worn to work, suit pants and a dress shirt still wrinkle-free. “I could easily spare a juice-box—apple-carrot ended up being a bust.”

“I can’t say I’m surprised,” Alina remarked. “Plus, juice isn’t supposed to be good for kids.”

“No?”

Alina shrugged. “I mean, it’s not like you’re giving them absinthe. Or liquid plutonium. But yeah, whole fruit is better. And they can just drink water.”

“You’re the first mom to talk to me at pickup,” he said. “I’m Alex, by the way. Cosima’s dad.”

“Probably because you’re like the only dad to show up,” Alina replied. She didn’t say “and you look like you’re on the cover of Vogue except for the navy fleece” but she thought it. Loudly.

“Their loss. Cosima always has so much to say as soon as she leaves the building, I get a play-by-play,” he said. “I’m out of town enough I don’t like to ask her nanny to get her if I can do it.”

Alina knew she should not say it. It was clear as day, as a bell, as crystal. Hell, she only had to make a leading remark and he’d probably volunteer the info, if his unprompted remarks about being Cosima’s dad and having a nanny were anything to go by. She had, however, been known to make bad decisions. See: Mal, though Eli was the most silvery of silver linings.

“Her mom can’t pick her up?”

Alex, who had every right to freeze up or withdraw or otherwise let her know she had far overstepped in her latte-stained sneakers, shrugged.

“She left me to go find herself. That doesn’t make her terribly available for kindergarten pickup. Or bath-time, beginning ballet, or urgent care visits for ear infections,” he said, not as bitterly as he could have but not as Zen as he’d likely intended. There was a look in his eyes that only another divorced, custodial parent could recognize, a pain made of equal parts anger and humiliation, the need to conceal it from the child who shouldn’t see their other parent as a villain. The fatigue from being the one who was there, who couldn’t think about a weekend away or a night out without worrying about whether there’d be a call from the sitter, a fever, a crying jag over the fear of abandonment and the finite quantity of chicken nuggets allotted to a meal.

“I really thought you were going to end on bake sales,” Alina said. 

“I always get a pass from the class moms on those,” Alex said. “They don’t expect a dad to bake, so if I do, I’m basically a superhero and if I can’t manage to send in homemade banana chocolate chip muffins and send her in with a box of cupcakes from Kaminsky’s, I’m still in their good graces. It’s completely unfair.”

“It is,” Alina said. She couldn’t be that annoyed because he knew it. “I wish I could get away with banana bread muffins. I sent Eli with red velvet cupcakes once and I didn’t use organic red food coloring or organic, locally sourced cream cheese for the frosting and I got the smoky cat-wing stink-eye for the next month. I should have risen above it, but honestly, it sucked.”

Alex laughed. He had a nice laugh, a nice voice, and seemed like a nice man who was a good dad. With her luck, that meant that he was either secretly an immensely powerful, evil mastermind intent on world domination or that she’d never see him again.

“You’re Eli’s mom? Cosima says he’s very smart and good at sharing and he makes the best dinosaur sounds. Somewhere between a growl and a yodel, I gathered after she gave up trying to describe it and demonstrated her impression,” Alex said. “I hope this isn’t too presumptuous, but would you consider a playdate for them? It’s been rough, these past few months, and I’m trying to make sure she still has a normal childhood, whatever that means these days. My mother thinks I spoil her, but she’s very old-fashioned. My mother, not Cosima.”

“My schedule is a little tricky,” Alina said carefully. She would have been more wary if it had been one of the exquisitely put-together mothers asking, more relaxed if one of the nannies had made the proposal. She wasn’t sure what to make of Alex’s offer, except that she’d wanted to say yes right away and that meant she needed to watch herself. The opportunity to even subtly trash-talk her ex was irresistible, however. “Eli’s father is around, but never when I need to organize anything.” 

“We could meet at the park. I can bring enough snacks to last the afternoon, you could come when you’re free,” Alex suggested. He said when and not if, enough hope in his voice and those dark eyes that it sounded like an appeal and not an attempt to control her.

“I wouldn’t want you to go to too much trouble,” she said. She had thought arranging playdates would be easier than actual adult dating, but thus far, she’d been wrong.

“Oh, I won’t. I’ll go to Kaminsky’s and stock up. I’m friends with the owners,” he said. “I should say, I’m friends with Theo and Ivan doesn’t outright loathe me and allows me to eat his pastry. If you are not Theo, that is about as close to friends as you can get with him.”

“Sounds like my friend Gen’s boyfriend David, except substitute updating all my devices so I don’t get hacked or locked out of my bank account for petit fours and apple turnovers,” Alina said.

“That’s what you’d like, apple turnovers?” Alex asked, looking at her with a degree of focus that started out as unnerving and then suddenly felt warmer than appraisal, too thoughtful to be mere flirtation.

“You don’t have to—” Alina began, cut off when the kids were released, much like a swarm of infuriated bees or the Charge of the Light Brigade, Eli running a credible Olympic qualifying sprint with her latte-splattered knees as the finish line, a dark-haired little girl with neatly braided hair arriving slightly more decorously in Alex’s embrace; he’d instantly dropped into an unfairly elegant crouch to receive his daughter, while Alina planted her feet to take on the onslaught of Hurricane Eli. 

“Papa, you have to tell Baba not to eat snails anymore because Ms. Costas got one and it’s got a name and snails are people too,” Cosima announced, small hands planted on her father’s shoulders.

“Its name is Greg,” Eli said, as if the four of them were having a conversation, which Alina now supposed was the actual truth. 

“So, a boy snail,” Alex said.

“No,” Cosima said. “Just Greg.”

“Can we go to the park, Mommy? You said we could. Can we bring meatballs?” Eli asked.

“Not today, buddy,” Alina said, bracing herself for a tantrum or a closing argument worthy of Clarence Darrow or Judge Judy. 

“You said—”

“Your mom said we could have a playdate on Saturday and that is in two days,” Alex interjected. “Cosima and I are going to bring a blanket and some treats. We could include meatballs too.”

“Don’t,” Alina said. Alex’s expression went blank but Cosima and Eli’s both looked mutinous and on the verge of tears. It was amazing Ms. Costas could stand firm regarding quiet time in the face of such unified disapproval. “I just meant, don’t worry about meatballs. Meatballs is Mr. Lanstov’s cat. He’s our neighbor, we help out a little—”

“Yeah, because Mr. Lantsov is a million years old,” Eli said. “He said to call him Niko, but Mommy says that’s not polite because he’s so old.”

“We could bring apple turnovers then,” Alex said. “And maybe some catnip for Meatballs. It would be nice to make everyone happy.”

For @vesperass-anuna and @aloveforjaneausten who were wanting a modern AU for Darklina where our two unhappy characters meet at school picking up their kiddos.

[zahri-melitor]

Okay, general roundup of New 52 titles I have read so far, now I am well into 2013 in my read through:-

Batwoman, J.H. Williams run – genuinely great. This is a highlight of the New 52, honestly. If DC had stopped occasionally remembering that Kate Kane is now Bruce’s cousin and had let Kate and Maggie get married, it would be perfect.

Blue Beetle – it’s not the best Jaime run I’ve ever read, but in terms of restructuring Jaime’s origin to simplify it and remove the heavy connection with Infinite Crisis shenanigans, it worked far better than the Rebirth reboot. Let down by getting cancelled just as it started becoming more interesting (aka had finally finished the retread of Jaime’s origin story and started him having new adventures).

Threshold – this was certainly a comic I read entirely to see Jaime in it. If you are lucky enough to know nothing about it, it’s basically a planet of foxhunting tagged ‘criminals’, where Jaime ends up one of the tagged. It’s meandering, pointless and bad. I think if you’re a Lantern fan you’d also think it was bad. Deservedly knocked off after 8 issues.

Justice League Dark – I made it through 6 issues. My biggest takeaways were that everyone here was just so miserable and Boston Brand was dating Dawn Granger for reasons that surpassed understanding. I want to like it more than I do, for the cast it has.

Batgirl, Gail Simone run – appealing and infuriating in turn. There’s some genuinely beautiful writing here (the WWII paper balloons!) and Babs is recognisable as Babs, but it’s horribly let down by the fact that ‘healing’ Barbara means that she’s now both not allowed to operate as Oracle (by editorial dictat) AND she’s having trouble as a street vigilante as she’s still recovering from her injuries. It makes sense but it also makes Barbara doubly incompetent which is maddening as they’ve taken away everything that was hers specifically. Also James Gordon Jnr is always intensely irritating to have around and I am never going to get over giving Babs a villain called ‘Knightfall’ in the run immediately after healing her back. Yes. I got the reference. It’s not that funny.

Birds of Prey – it’s hmmm still finding its feet. Lacks the soul of the original run, but there are flashes of the old magic occasionally. It is hilarious to me that they decided to merge Dinah Drake and Dinah Lance back into a single character for this run, creating a bizarre new ex-husband for Dinah in Kurt Lance (seriously, Kurt Lance, why do you exist you’re so weird) and then within 6 issues or so abruptly realised WHY Dinah Drake and Dinah Lance have been separate characters since 1983 and reinvented a new Dinah Drake mother for the character. Spectacular. Sheer evidence that nobody involved in new 52 was actually spending much time thinking about how an all new origin reboot would affect characterisation.

Batman – I have my differences with Scott Snyder over his run, but he at least manages to make things interesting and spend time interrogating Bruce’s identity. It feels in conversation with the Loeb and Dini storylines around Thomas Elliot and that whole crowd of elite Gothamites. Lots of interesting set ups let down by execution or obsession with conspiracy theories. Love his work with Harper Row as a character.

Batman & Robin – okay folk, I do agree, this is a far far better Batman & Robin run than 2009. I feel like I’ve spent more time with Damian showing me his character rather than being informed by Morrison via Alfred mouthpiece about Damian’s character. There’s some lovely character work in here. It’s still suffering from getting New 52ed but it’s honestly the first run anywhere that’s actually really good for Damian characterisation (plus or minus the Damian and Colin Wilkes fight Zsasz plot in Streets of Gotham or Gates of Gotham).

Batman Incorporated – fuck you Grant Morrison. Nobody reading this title is having a good time. If you’re here for actual Batman Inc characters well I’m sorry, they’re mostly standing around the sidelines of a plot about Bruce, Talia and Damian. If you’re here for Talia I’m so sorry for you. If you’re here to read Bruce and/or Damian you get like 3-4 sweet scenes that I am sure you have already seen in screencapped panels floating around with no context. DC would be a better place if this book hadn’t been approved (also Cyril might still be alive)

Nightwing – this comic so far is obsessed with Haly’s Circus. Now I don’t like the whole Talon retcon (I think it cheapens a lot of things about Dick’s backstory as a character) but I will admit it’s nice to see Dick spending time with his Haly’s Circus friends and Dick’s optimistic side coming out in the ‘let’s just rebuild Amusement Mile as a place that isn’t Joker-haunted!’ Tragically of course because we’re never allowed to have nice plotlines involving Haly’s Circus it gets blown up again and lots of people die. But at least Dick’s back to owning the circus, amirite? (For bizarre ‘Pop Haly left it to him in his will’ reasons rather than Dick buying it out with his inheritance money that is totally not one of the many occasions Bruce has lied to Dick and told him that this trust fund is 100% based on investments of his parents assets, rather than Bruce attempting to give Dick Wayne money again so he stops living out of cardboard boxes in a tiny apartment)

Red Hood and the Outlaws – I have now suffered through three whole issues of this comic (actually 4 but I paged through that one to read like one scene at the end) and it is determined to make me hate everyone involved with it in terms of its disrespect for Roy and Kory. Also all the issues kept trying to convince me that Jason and Tim have always been each others’ favourite brothers, which lol. (If that’s actually ever true for Jason it’s the most hilarisad thing ever).

Teen Titans – I made it through two issues for crossover purposes. I am tempted to come back as I think I will get some stuff out of it once I’ve finished my Teen Titans 2003 read (and look there does actually appear to be some things in here I may enjoy). Can’t believe Kurt Lance shows up in this comic. I swear he’s my new nemesis.

Suicide Squad – I am 100% not reading this comic, I only opened it for crossover issues. What have they done to Amanda Waller. (Also why is Harley Quinn trying to date Floyd Lawton, did editorial suddenly realise how many people are into his deep uh comradery with Thomas Blake and overreact trying to remove the gay cooties or something?)

Catwoman and Detective Comics – honestly I haven’t got a good enough read on either yet from the few issues I’ve read, but ‘Tec is running a Penguin plot and I’m not in the mood for a Penguin plot at the moment.

So far, my recommendations: Batwoman I recommend without hesitation. Batman & Robin has been embroidered in fans’ memories but is worthwhile in any case. Batman is interesting stories sometimes let down in execution and may actually read better if you avoid touching any tie-in issues for a readthrough.

Nightwing, Batgirl, Birds of Prey and Blue Beetle are “these are some of my favourite characters, I want to know even if I don’t always like it” reads. They’re still the same characters, just trapped in a maddening world.

[yonemurishiroku]

do you think nico is an introvert or an extrovert?

An extrovert in heart, introvert not by choice.

As in: he's naturally an extrovert, but as it is, he can appear introverted.

Now, just to be clear, I'm speaking by the definition that an extrovert is someone who acquires energy from social interactions, whereas introverts recharge through solitude. It has nothing to do with how socially awkward or anti-social one might be.

So, according to that, I do believe Nico is naturally an extrovert.

Let's talk about how the first time we met him. It was perhaps the only time when Nico's personality was portrayed crystal clear, an insight without any outside effects. And as we can see, the ten-year-old Nico was unapologetically enthusiastic before Bianca, even to the point of annoyance (Percy's words, not mine).

Ten-year-old Nico was so open to Percy, completely unafraid of questioning/ bothering him despite the short time they knew each other. He appeared to be craving the older one's attention, but you can just chalk this up to the crush as well.

Nico got along with the campers effortlessly in such a short time, too. It was clearly shown that Nico was comfortable with them and likewise (otherwise Bianca wouldn't have left him anw). Every time we saw him, he was having fun playing around the Camp, with people.

That's before-Bianca for you. Now, you might say Nico is an introvert based on how he actively distanced himself from others post-Bianca. But actually? Nico didn't.

It's true that Nico refrains from interacting with the Seven (minus Hazel) and the campers from general. However, we're forgetting the fact that Nico, as it turns out, has never stopped expanding his friend list.

When the demigods turn away from him, Nico makes friends with non-demigods instead. Hestia? Bob? The trogs? Hazel too - the rare one who embraces him and Nico is openly affectionate to her. He communed with the ghosts, for Heaven's sake. And who knows, he might have some acquaintances in China for all we know.

The point is: Nico has never stopped socializing (His social network is actually one of the widest...). He just stopped socializing with people that don't socialize with him. The moment someone appears willingly friendly to him, Nico doesn't hesitate to jump into their hugs (as shown in Reyna and Jason). Yet, since the story focuses on the demigods in general - who just so happen to keep their distance from Nico - we see him more often than not alone.

But Nico doesn't like to be alone. Loneliness is what actually kills him. The lack of acceptance and rejection is what drives him miserable in the first place. (*cough* Bianca *cough*)

Nico has always been actively seeking company all this time. (and that's also why I still want to punch Jason and Will in the face, but that's just me)

Anw, this is just my opinion, and tbh I... don't know much about this whole introvert and extrovert thing lolol lemme know what you think!

[aita-blorbos]

AITA for taking my colleague on a work trip to a dangerous island?

I (30s M) work as a paleontologist. I do a lot of archeological digs, in particular with my colleague E (24F). In the past I’ve worked with a bioengineering company and have some contact with its founder J (60s-70s? M).

So I’m doing this dig in Montana and a couple of things happen really quickly. I get a visit from this guy who asks some questions about J and his company (mostly him telling me things that J and his company have been doing and then asking “why are they doing that?”). I answer those questions (mostly with “I don’t know, ask them”) and he leaves. Then E gets a call from some science lab in Costa Rica. Apparently there were some animal attacks there and the scientists want us to take a look at the remains of one of these animals. Right after this, J calls and says he wants E and I to visit this “biological preserve” his company has established on an island near Costa Rica. He also offered me enough money to fund several years’ worth of digs, so I agree, and E and I leave for this island.

When we get there it’s very apparent that there’s dinosaurs there. Living dinosaurs. Actual living dinosaurs. The island is designed as a theme park, but with live dinosaurs. I’ll spare you the exact details of how they managed to bring back dinosaurs, but long story short: they used ancient dinosaur DNA from blood inside insects that were preserved in amber, and any gaps in the genetic code were filled with DNA from reptiles, birds, or amphibians. The dinosaurs are also apparently bioengineered to be female so they can’t breed.

Anyway, J is like “okay so you and E need to tour the park and say it’s good so the investors aren’t scared.” J has also brought a mathematician and a lawyer for the investors. Both of them think the park is a stupid idea and that it will fail miserably. (They basically said that but nicer and in more words.) The park’s staff include the engineer, a PR manager, a game warden, a veterinarian, and some sort of scientist guy. J has apparently also invited HIS FUCKING GRANDCHILDREN because their parents are divorcing and I guess hanging out at a fucking dinosaur amusement park will maybe make them feel better. The grandchildren are T (idk like 10 or something?, M) and L (eight-ish, F).

So everyone (minus the staff) is doing the tour, and I end up finding an eggshell. Which in any other context isn’t a big deal, but because we’re on Dinosaur Island where all the dinos are incubated in a lab, this means that they’re breeding.

Then the power goes out, and all the systems are down, which means the dinosaurs can just roam around the island unchecked. We become aware of this fact when we are attacked by a T. rex. I’m mostly okay, and I end up finding T & L, and escaping with them into the jungle.

The kids and I make it back to the control building by rafting down a river, we’re almost killed by dinosaurs a couple times, the details aren’t important. Point is, we make it back, I turn the main generators on, and T reactivates the park’s systems. At some point the velociraptors got out of their enclosure and killed the engineer and the scientist guy. I meet up with E, she’s mostly fine, no major injuries or anything like that.

I end up figuring out that the frog DNA made some dinosaurs able to change from female to male in certain environments. This island was one of those certain environments and that’s how we got the dinos breeding. The computer system that tallied up the animals was designed to make sure no animals had disappeared or died, so only counted the number of animals they were supposed to have on the island, failing to include organically conceived dinosaurs.

E, the game warden, the lawyer, and I find the wild raptor nests and we come to the conclusion that the velociraptors are trying to migrate off the island. Before we can really do anything about this, we’re evacuated from the island by the Costa Rican Air Force. I think they ended up doing something to kill off the dinosaurs or destroy the island but I’m not sure. Afterwards we’re staying at a hotel because there’s some sort of international something going on and we can’t return to the US yet. Some American doctor who’s working in Costa Rica visits me and says “hey so there’s this pack of animals that are migrating through the jungle, just fyi.” I go “huh okay I don’t want to unpack that right now though. goodbye.”

E and I return to the US sometime later and resume the archeological dig like nothing happened. I should have just said no, I recognize that now. I at least shouldn’t have brought E with me. From what I can tell she almost got attacked by velociraptors. I know she wanted to go, but I did say yes on her behalf. I didn’t know that the island had actual fucking dinosaurs on it, but still, I feel bad that she had to go through all that. Idk. So, AITA for taking my coworker on a work trip with me to an island that turned out to have literal dinosaurs on it?

[ina-nis]

I’ve been trying to figure out my progression with this disorder and why things actually took a turn to “worse” despite my efforts at addressing it (through treatment and whatnot).

Over time, socializing started becoming more and more triggering, more exhausting and draining, and I’m at a point where I feel like it’s a waste of time so I stopped bothering.

It never helps that my experiences with other people always end up poorly for me - with the last one being me becoming toxic (because of feeling constantly triggered around a person) after forcing myself for months, and I ended up kicked out of this group of friends, understandably so - I feel like it doesn’t really matter whether it’s online or offline, one is more accessible than the other though, but the experiences and outcomes are the same as always.

My therapist asked what I was feeling during these times when I try socializing, because it being draining and feeling like a waste of time is more of an result, not the cause, and I couldn’t quite pinpoint what... other than it feels dreadful.

It’s a striking paradox, isn’t it? To crave connection, to long for the other; while at the same time, it makes you miserable and it sucks the life out of you. Every encounter you ever had with a stranger is a new possibility for a connection in theory; and yet in practice, it feels like you put on a countdown timer, the connection will never deepen - at least, never in the way you want it to.

I was reading about social anhedonia and, what do you know?! It’s very common in schizophrenia-spectrum disorders. There’s a few studies that classify AvPD as one of them (together with SzPD and StPD), and I believe that’s the case as well.

The dreadful feelings I have when socializing have a lot to do with a lack of interest on interacting, because it’s not pleasurable or fun (anymore) and, most importantly, socializing became more of a hassle and a trigger than anything, there’s high probability of having harmful interactions (and I have these million examples of my own personal experiences to gauge): the perceived rejections, the inability to go deeper than superficial, the lack of interest in pursuing a connection if I cannot sense it will get any further (i.e: no possibility of a romantic mono relationship), and so on.

With social interactions getting to a point where they’re a complete pain in the ass and a meaningless chore, I simply stopped trying... therefore, cementing issues that were already extremely difficult to tackle.

Even with all the good things happening in my life, even with the aid of my longing and the fact that I fall in love easily, it’s not enough to get me to do anything, probably because all these things have to do with me and my relationship with myself, it doesn’t have to involve others directly or indirectly (and very often, it doesn’t).

This feels like something I won’t be able to pull myself out of, considering my attempts in doing so ended up worsening the symptoms instead of helping them.

The irony of it all is the treatment for anhedonia, not surprisingly, being exactly all the things I already do (minus medication), and medication itself being a gamble: it could solve all your problems, it could do nothing, it could make everything worse. I cannot use medication for this considering side effects and a history of treatment-resistance (aka medication made things worse while also causing more problems).

And... again, this is all stuff that I’m “supposed” to do on my own and treat on my own when, I feel like, the whole issue is a lack of a support system, a lack of close relationships, a lack of connection...

I don’t think any treatment is going to work if I remain on my own and I don’t seem to be able to be with others because it’s pointless.

How do I make being around people pleasurable again, how can I make it fun again?

Was socializing ever pleasurable and fun to start with?

What can I do with my brain that perceives every person as “bad company” until proven otherwise, doesn’t give anyone time to prove themselves, and settles for the “comfortable” and familiar pain of loneliness instead?

Is it the sign that I should try letting go finally?

The very thing I crave is a source of dread and discomfort. How messed up, huh?

[mdhwrites]

In case talking about toh writing gets too negative, wanna talk about ships for a break? Silly question here:

If Luz and Amity's dynamic is basically opposites attract (at least for the first season)

What do you think Boscha and Amity's dynamic is like or how would you describe it 🤔? First season I was thinking mean girl x mean girl although I'd say there's more to that.

Also currently, what do you think the dynamic of them is like now?

My legitimate thought process for this was "What makes you think ship talk will make this positive? I've trashed on Lumity, Huntlow, Raeda, Lunt- Oh, Boscha ship? This I can work with."

So first is the fact that mean girl x mean girl isn't really a romance dynamic? To me at least. I know some stuff will have couples who are depicted as arguing all the time but like… Who actually likes that? They always tend to look incredibly unhappy with each other and like they need to split because they're constantly miserable.

If it's more talking about how they are with others, then that's not really about their ship. People will act differently with different people and theoretically treat those they love, especially their partners, different from even their friends. I've discussed how happy characters like Luz actually struggle extra hard with this. After all, if you treat everyone like you love them, how do you make your partner feel special?

But Amity and Boscha are even more complicated than that with their actions towards others. After all, both appear to have a tendency towards public performance. That the version we see with others isn't who they actually are. Amity is obvious but Boscha demonstrates on two different occasions in Winging it Like Witches that this is the case, especially when it comes to friendship. The first moment is her Machiavellian speech at the beginning of the episode, which one can only make properly if they recognize they're choosing to be a bad person of some sort. You can't choose to be feared instead of loved if you don't know what the actions to garner love are.

The other moment is even more important though. When Luz takes Willow and Gus' place as the sole target of Boscha's ire and own up to the consequences of her actions, this hits Boscha hard enough to seemingly make her drop her mask for a moment. She says "Wow, you're a really good friend" in a tone we've just about never heard from Boscha. It doesn't last of course as Boscha is far too invested in the power and status that the public performance side of her gives but it is there and it is important. It implies she knows what good friendship is but maybe doesn't get it very often.

Which, to be fair to Boscha's friends, it's not like Boscha is very nice to her friends. She demands a new invite to Skara's birthday party when hers molts, she pushes her team too hard theoretically and she makes fun of the dude in her group during Once Upon a Swap constantly. It's hard to really think of times where Boscha IS nice to those around her, shows concessions to them, thinks of them beyond her own interests, etc. like that.

Minus Amity. Amity can make Boscha immediately drop a topic. Amity can claim a cute ghost as theirs and not have Boscha immediately break down the door to introduce herself. Amity is the one Boscha goes with the Penstagram post about Luz and co riding Hooty. And rather than Luz or Willow gaining her ire for making her look small and taking her friends, like she did to King in Once Upon a Swap, she seems angry with Amity specifically when Amity's betrayal happens.

It paints someone who truly thought they were best friends. Someone who thought the two were peas in a pod. And, with Boscha's need for control, probably someone Boscha was always afraid of losing.

And if we go off of what the show explicitly states and shows… It was someone Boscha never had as even a friend.

Amity never shows any of this sort of respect or care back to Boscha. Now, does that make sense? Absolutely not, especially when you consider they've been friends for nine years. But it is what the show explicitly states, shows, etc. The closest she comes to caring about quite literally any of her friends is having a sleepover with them where she sits alone at the window to brood instead of even seeming to actually participate in the ritual they're ostensibly there for. It doesn't make sense and is pretty lazy with a really bad joke about technology that makes me go "Okay Boomer."

It's also why I think Boscha got at least some of her cruelty from Amity. Because if we want to talk about a realistic ship that conforms to canon between the two, it is through unrequited love. Boscha loves Amity, probably gained some of who she is by admiration and fondness for her. though not entirely because while we will grow from our partners, you should not just become your partner or explicitly change for them. You know, like Amity did.

No, the claim of Boscha getting part of her personality from Amity comes from the fact that they became friends at five and were friends for nine years. Even as an adult, a friendship that long will change you, let alone when you're at such a developmental part of life. So if the girl you think is the coolest, cutest, most fun, etc. like that is acting like a loner bitch all the time, you're going to think that cruelty is a good thing.

And… all of this isn't actually negative about the show. Much of it was never going to be touched on in a kid's show and I've talked about the fact that narratively, Amity's turn away from her friends works in S1 when it appeared she would care about Willow alongside Luz, not just talk to Willow when it was convenient. This stuff is deeply complex, more nuanced than most kid's shows are going to touch and it's also much closer to something that a show like The Ghost and Molly McGee could handle more easily because that show doesn't necessarily need an adventure or supernatural element for every episode. It can just do a deep dive on the characters, large and small.

And, you know… Boscha is very much so a bit part character who's relevance ended during Winging it Like Witches so the fact that she was the secondary antagonist for one of the S3 specials still blows my mind from a narrative standpoint.

Because… Boscha and Amity don't have a dynamic anymore. To FINALLY actually answer what their dynamic in S1 could have been, I think the strongest thread to pull would be shoulders to lean on. Someone else who knows the pressure of public performance, the exhaustion that can lead to, the isolation, etc. like that. That's only one option though because we know so little about their relationship, and also so little concretely about Boscha, that DOZENS of dynamics could work for them depending on which traits in Amity or Boscha you decided to highlight. I personally usually lean on my Lumischa takes for the twin pairings so unsurprisingly, my Amischa pairing is going to be about Boscha giving Amity stability from her overworked mind, as well as someone who gets her perspective better than Luz, while Amity can help Boscha have a safe port in storms. Someone she can go to without needing to fear being judged if she doesn't actually the have the answer to everything because Amity doesn't expect that from Boscha unlike everyone else. Someone she can give up control to.

And in S3 they just don't have a dynamic anymore. Amity is an entirely different person, one that Boscha can never understand or trust anymore really. I mean, from Boscha's perspective, Amity's whole personality flipped in the span of a couple months at most and part of that included being told to eat shit by her best friend. That the social rules that Amity herself perpetuated, like Willow being social suicide, were somehow no longer valid just because Amity said so.

When Boscha seems desperate in the second special… It's because she is. Sport in a Storm had Boscha trying to approach something close to normalcy with Luz and Amity. Trying to bully them like she would anyone else and just having it reinforced the fact that Amity doesn't even register her now. In the special, the world has gone to shit, she's got control but only so much and everything is different.

So she wants her port in the storm back. Even if Amity tried to be that for Boscha at this point though… How? Amity has so thoroughly rejected any viewpoint that isn't Luz's at this point that there can be no mutual understanding between them. Boscha could thus never drop her guard as she never has been able to with goody two shoes like Luz or Willow or any of her friends.

She felt safe with Amity. And now that Amity would NEVER say there was any good to her past… How is there is supposed to be good between them?

It's frankly a tragedy and a lot of fun to think about. If the elements that played into it were stronger, I'd even praise it more as a part of the show. If this felt like a real call to Amity to pull her back to who she used to be, it could be a powerful capstone to her arc.

As it is though, like most of Boscha's writing, it's something I almost have to assume was accidentally as interesting as it is, rather than intentional. Or if given more time, would have become worse as so much of TOH does with more attention.

Which… Just brings us all the way back around to what this ask was supposed to give a reprieve from. sigh Sorry. ========

I have a public Discord for any and all who want to join!

I also have an Amazon page for all of my original works in various forms of character focused romances from cute, teenage romance to erotica series of my past. I have an Ao3 for my fanfiction projects as well if that catches your fancy instead, If you want to hang out with me, I stream from time to time and love to chat with chat.

And finally a Twitter you can follow too!

[gayopinion]

i don't miss my friends from before i moved per say but like. i haven't had a face to face conversation with someone i know in weeks and that's def eating at me. haven't even facetimed friends cause they're not available

[painful-pooch]

The Start of a Dream Team

So after the long wait, it's finally here! I hope you enjoy this!

I did try to incorporate some camraderie and good old fashioned bickering between the branches that you will see here. This is a fun fictional team that I plan to whump hopefully with your help.

I'd like to give a big shout out to @ocean-blue-whump , @whumperofworlds , and @straight-to-the-pain for really giving me the courage for this.

TW: Some shit talking between people and threats of torture/hazing

Word count: 4k

"You have a month to find yourself a team, Stenberg. By the time your time is up, I want to see a folder on my desk by then or I'll have you on the worst detail I can give you. Don't think because you're a Captain that I can't make your life miserable. Am I understood?"

"Yes, Ma'am. I'll get on that ASAP."

3 WEEKS LATER

Vibrant blue eyes stare at the figure in the mirror, Bruno running his hand through his copper brown hair with gel so his hair can be more presentable. It doesn't take long for him to get into what he considered regulation, minus the fact that he is starting to grow out a beard. He is told that sooner or later, he would have to stop trying to keep in touch with the regulations on grooming if he is going to be on missions where he needs to blend in.

He fixes the collar of his uniform, running his thumb along the edges of it to make sure it doesn't look fucked up. Watchful eyes scan his uniform from the mirror, ensuring that the velcro name tapes, rank, flag, unit patch, and anything else he has on looks clean and professional.

He barely glances at the clock and sees the time. It's 0545. They all had better be up or I will make them pay.

It took him roughly three weeks to find everyone he needed on the team, back ups and replacements being chosen as well, but not notified. This is more of a need to know basis, and he can't risk the premise of the task force to be figured out by anyone without the proper clearance.

He knows that some of those he picked will need more work than others. The task force is a combination of those of different branches and ranks, both enlisted and officers. He was given only a few slots, until he proved himself.

It wasn't an easy choice, but he managed to find most of what he wanted from his team after going through a list of what he thought was necessary for success.

Without waiting another moment, Bruno walked out of his room, looking down the hallway to see only a few people standing by in their respective service's uniform.

Wonderful. Time to see who I need to wake up.

Bruno stood in front of a female Marine Officer, his eyes on her name tape, rank, and then her green eyes. "Lieutenant Ryker?" He asks, and to his surprise, she raises an eyebrow.

"I thought you could read, Chair Force? You're all the brainiacs of the military, you tell me."

She… Did she really just go there?

His disbelief gives her enough time to tilt her head questioningly. "Did I already make the walking computer blue screen?"

Bruno huffs and stares her down. "If I didn't know better, someone didn't get to have her favorite crayons for breakfast. What color would you like today, hmmm? Oh sorry, let me make this easier: you want Cherry or Blueberry?"

Lieutenant Ryker glares at him in subtle rage. It gives Bruno enough time to remind himself about sifting through some of the files for a few nights prior to this, hers coming to mind.

Miranda Zane Ryker. Marine. Commissioned after a few years on Active Duty as an EOD Marine (explosives ordnance disposal). Did a couple of tours around the world and is well versed in most explosives and how to properly dispose of them, earning the respect of her platoon and unit. Confident beyond the definition of the word. Known to be… I suppose it's wit? Probably has some issues with me already. Don't we all?

Snickering is heard beside them, which makes both Bruno and Miranda shoot daggers towards the sound. The man looks like a damn viking with the beard and all, but he has three large scars going down the side of his face, as if a wild animal had slashed him.

“Is there something you want to add, Staff Sergeant Ackermann?”

“I would have thought the Army would have taken out every bit of happiness from you fucks,” Miranda mutters under her breath.

Sergeant Ackermann keeps his grin on his face and rolls his eyes. “Ah yes, because let’s not forget to mess with the enlisted bastard. Look, Blue Falcon and Devil Dog, I am just a humble little Sergeant here to actually get shit done. Also you two are so going to kiss at some point.”

Miranda scoffs and rolls her eyes. “Yeah, as if I would even want to kiss the military’s version of a nerd. Not my type anyways.”

“We are not going to kiss, Sergeant Ackermann!” Bruno roars in annoyance, growing more upset with the amusement that never left the Army Sergeant’s face.

Valdemar Frey Ackermann. Army. Enlisted after being given the option between prison time or an enlistment within the armed forces. Has shown exceptional potential after a few tours and was picked to be a drill instructor. Turns it down instead to go special forces and teach SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape) school for the best of the best. Has a knack for heavy weapons and is known to be an… ‘admirable’ man. More like an asshole… We all are, honestly, who am I joking…

Valdemar winks and looks around the hallway, staring at a door without anyone beside it. “Yeah yeah, sure. Who’s missing here?”

Miranda stays quiet and Bruno’s eyebrows furrowed in confusion, wondering who is missing. “I’ll figure that out here in a few minutes. Why? Are you going to help with anything?”

“Oh, don’t you worry your pretty officer bars, Captain Stenberg. I’ll whip some people in shape. Just tell me who it is in there in a bit. We still have… three other people to go through here?” Valdemar beckons to the others standing by to be accounted for.

A sigh comes from Bruno; he was more than aware that he is going to be dealing with some members that haven’t truly been pushed to their boundaries yet, but he has to start somewhere. Soon enough, the missing members will be addressed. He focuses his attention on the next person he walks up to.

The man barely locks eyes with him for a second and stares back at the floor, almost wanting to take a step back from Bruno. He seems out of his element and rather than even say a word, he pulls out his wallet and shows his CAC (Common Access Card). Bruno almost feels bad for scaring the man, but he doesn’t push it much and reads over the card.

Oscar Franco Cortez. Retired Air Force. Civilian contracted with the NSA (National Security Administration). Used to be in intel if I recall and made it to the rank of Staff Sergeant and is now a GS-7 (rank for civilian members). Already has Top Secret clearance and is renowned for his work. Studious and has a Bachelor’s degree, working on his Master’s. Known to stick to his own, but gets his work done way before the deadline, surpassing the objective. I’ll have to talk to him one on one soon enough.

“Thank you, Mr. Cortez. If you’d like, can I call you Oscar to make you feel better?” Bruno asks, trying to see some facial movement in the man.

Oscar shakes his head and finally utters a few words. “No, but thank you. Can I go?”

Bruno is blinking and glances at Valdemar and Miranda, who both raise their hands and shake their heads to deny helping him with Oscar. He is on his own, which isn’t really out of the norm, but he pinches the bridge of his nose in slight annoyance. “How about this, Mr. Cortez… Let’s all get to, at the bare minimum, get to know one another’s name, and then you can go. And no, the rest of you are not going anywhere.”

Oscar nods his head and peeks a glance upwards, his pale blue eyes locked with Bruno’s. “Oscar. You can say Oscar, Captain.”

A small smile is forming on the Captain’s usually stoic face and he clears his throat. “Right. Well then, Oscar, just stand by until you at least know who you will be working with.”

With that being said, Bruno walks up to the female Airman standing before him, her eyes straight and her demeanor more serious. Surprisingly, he thinks that she may be the most serious of them all. “Senior Airman Paszek?”

Senior Airman Paszek adjusts her gaze to meet Bruno’s ever-so observant eyes. He can tell she’s ready to take any order he gives her, but he waits for her response. “Yes, Sir. Good morning. Is there anything I need to do for in processing? I can grab a copy of my orders and anything else you need.”

Bruno stifles back a laugh and shakes his head. “No need to worry about that. I’ll handle everything when it comes to the support squadrons and finance. This will be your duty location and I’ll explain everything else once I’ve finished accountability. Also, you can relax. This isn’t anything like Pararescue training as of right now.”

“Oh. Thank you, Sir.” Her shoulders relax more and she glances around the hallway to take a better look at her team. That or she is also keeping an eye out for anything that may jump out to surprise her. She waves at Miranda, who waves back at her with a smile until Bruno fixes his gaze on her, which is met back with a deadpan look.

Rather than deal with Miranda’s bullshit, he’s trying to remember some key parts of Khrystyna’s file to test himself on memorizing each member of his team.

Khystyna Zofia Paszek. Air Force. Joined at the age of seventeen and a half and graduated basic training just a few months shy of eighteen. She opted in for PJ (pararescue jumper) training and is one of the first women to actually make it through the whole thing without tapping out or getting a single strike on her record. She may be young… I think she’s old enough to drink by now, but I do think she will gain more experience and be able to keep up with the fast pace we will set up. She seems to be worried about setting a good first impression, but she’s going to be fine.

“Well, Paszek, I think you are going to enjoy the challenge I will throw at you later on. Be ready for it and make sure to not let anyone fall behind. Got it?” He questions her, a small smile on his own face to be more warm and trusting. He is beyond pleased to see her eyes flash with a sense of excitement and a desire to make things happen.

He runs a hand through his hair, making note that he is almost done with the hardest part when it comes to making a team: getting to know everyone and figuring out as quickly as possible if this is the team he wants to work with and make history from within the shadows.

The last man he sees in the hallway immediately throws him off. He is wearing his Navy working uniform and his demeanor is colder than ice. Bruno doesn’t like it, but the man speaks up before he can do anything. “Petty Officer First Class Ashton, Sir. Is there a reason I was removed from my previous team?”

Bruno holds his gaze with Petty Officer Ashton and he answers without even wavering, “Because you are needed here. I’d be careful with whatever comes from your mouth. I have the authority to pull you from any team I want. I don’t care if you are from the Rangers or SEALs. Your service is to this country, whether you agree or not. Am I understood? That goes for the rest of you. I am the only thing standing in your way from that door to leave. I see worth in you all and dammit, I will make it happen.” He takes the moment to look around, the rest of the team almost standing straighter and nodding in agreement.

Petty Officer Ashton seems to have let his pride get hurt in the process and he has anger in his eyes. Good. “Yes, I understand, Captain. Are you going to tell us what we are all doing here or are you going to be as cryptic as ever before?”

“Once I get everyone accounted for, I can better explain things. Is that a fair answer to you?” Bruno is about five seconds away from making this man work until he drops.

Kieran Reeves Ashton. Navy. God, I hate the Navy… He enlisted as a Naval Aircrewman for Helicopters. He went the SEALs route, and since then, he has been their dedicated long-range combatant. Codename is ‘Strider’. Excellent marksmanship skills using a sniper rifle and has the skills needed to stay hidden and not be seen unless he wants to be seen. Has had issues in the past with fellow teammates over a variety of issues, from personality clashing to just arguing over who is the most skilled. I’ll keep an eye on him, but he is the best of the best. I can work with that. I hope.

“Yeah that’s fair… I think I still hear snoring in that room?” Kieran observes, pointing over at the room across from him and Bruno.

Bruno plays all the names in his head and he realizes there are still two members he hasn’t fully met yet. He groans and sighs, staring at the door and wondering what he should do about it. Then again… He could use Valdemar. He is, after all, an instructor.

“Sergeant Ackermann?”

“Yes? Do you need my services now?” Bruno doesn’t need to even look over to see that Valdemar is already smirking.

“Yep. We are looking for Lieutenants Kazemi and Chevalier. Use any means possible to get them out here in under three minutes or I will have you mop a sidewalk when it’s raining outside, make you cut the fucking grass with a sewing kit scissors, or make you paint rocks outside in the hot blistering sun. Is that motivation enough, Sergeant Ackermann?”

Valdemar chuckles and winks at Miranda. “Watch this Army boy get shit done,” he jokes, heading into his room for a moment. Silence is all that can be heard until the water turns on for about a minute.

“Any minute now, Sergeant!” Bruno is counting down the seconds.

“You rush too much, Captain. Perfection takes about a minute, a wet towel, and a pitcher of cold shower water. Brought to you by good ol’ Valdemar.” Valdemar appears once more with the items he listed and Bruno quickly steps in front of him, grabbing the wet towel.

“I don’t think hazing my two pilots by waterboarding them is acceptable. You can douse them in water, but they aren’t in SERE right now. Try not to be too harsh on them. I need them in one piece.” Bruno’s voice leaves no room for arguing or trying to skirt around it, giving Valdemar a taste of a more serious leader.

“Oooooh, well look at that. The Captain America over here has a command voice,” Miranda laughs, smiling so brightly at Bruno.

“I don’t have time for your lip, *Marine*,” Bruno grumbles and gives her a stern look, taking his eyes off Valdemar.

Valdemar scoffs and raises his free hand, walking around Bruno. “That’s okay. They will be fine. I won’t waterboard them, but they are going to wake up for me.” With that, he gently turns the handle to the room and throws the door wide open. “Rise and shine!” He shouts, going to one of the beds and ripping the sheets back, dousing one of the Lieutenants in cold water.

“What the- OH FUCK COLD COLD COLD!” One screams, scrambling out of bed and gasping, holding onto their wet shirt that’s clinging onto their skin. “What t-t-time is it?” He asks, his teeth chattering as he looks up at Bruno, soft turquoise eyes that show Bruno how tired he is.

“It’s time for you to wake up. Where’s your roommate?” Valdemar answers, sifting through the room to see a neatly made bed with a note on it. He picks it up and reads out loud, “Hey Buddy, I am heading out to go on a run and grabs us some food. I should be back by the time formation starts. I hope you actually wake up on time for once. From your one and only Sebastian, Sebastian… Wow, he re-”

“They,” the young Lieutenant coughed, “They are non-binary. But you can also use ‘he’. Just letting you know.”

Valdemar blinked and raised an eyebrow. “Right… Got it. Now why the fuck aren’t they here? Well first off, get off the floor, stand at ease, and tell the Captain here why your sorry ass was off asleep? Move!” He commands, grabbing the Lieutenant and getting him standing up, the poor man shivering. 

Lukas Ashraf Kazemi. Air Force. Commissioned through the Air Force Academy with a Bachelor’s in Aeronautical Engineering and a Minor in Farsi. Has been flying planes since a young age and earned his pilot’s license at the age of sixteen. Has some of the highest scores on the pilot exam and is already an Ace (a pilot who has downed 5 enemy planes) at his age. Callsign is ‘Tomcat’. His father is a Major General in the Air Force as well, but that’s more trivia than a reason to be here. He is known to be full of life but also can get the job done. I have high expectations for him.

Lukas focuses on Bruno and mumbles, “Sorry, Sir. Lieutenant Kazemi here. I got here pretty late last night and I thought my alarm would wake me up. Could you do me a favor?”

Valdemar’s eyes widen. “Who the fuck said you can ask for-”

“That’s enough, Sergeant Ackermann. What’s the favor, Lieutenant Kazemi?”

Lukas smirks up and peeks a glance at Valdemar. “Mind keeping the Army dog on a leash. My face is too pretty to get bruised up.”

My expectations may be tested here…

Valdemar huffs in exasperation and crosses his arms. “Oh, just you wait…”

Bruno rubs his face and groans, “It’s so damn early to be dealing with this. You need to behave. The both of you. I swear, I haven’t gotten to know much about you all, but so far I know you like waterboarding and this one likes his pretty little face. We are getting far from the objective though. Can you call up Lieutenant Chevalier? They really need to be here, and don’t you both think for a moment I am excusing your tardiness. I’ll make you both run laps until you drop.”

Valdemar’s jaw drops in shock and Lukas cuts him off quickly. “Yep! I can call them up. I don’t think they went that far, honestly.” He walks over to grab his phone, calling who Bruno can only hope is Lieutenant Chevalier.

Then they all hear it. 

The ring tone of a phone going off… With a rendition of the song “Never Gonna Give You Up”, but it goes like ‘Never gonna hang you up, never gonna voicemail you’. 

Laughter is erupting from the hallway, and Valdemar, Lukas, and Bruno both look over at the doorway to see what Bruno is sure is the missing link to it all. 

Sebastian Dario Chevalier. Air Force. Commissioned as an Officer in the Air Force Academy just like Lukas. They were both in the same class from what their records say. They have a Major in Military & Strategic Studies and a Minor in Philosophy. They, along with Lukas, both are Aces within their rights, but they have experience in flying helicopters as well. Callsign is ‘Icarus’. They have an extraordinary sense of teamwork and family, always motivating others and carrying themselves with a pride that most people didn’t carry. They are known for always having a good time and keeping Lukas in check. They may be able to help me with the general atmosphere, but they are definitely going to drive me up a wall, huh?

Sebastian is grinning, two coffees in hand and a small paper bag. “So it seems like Lukas forgot his alarm again? I was here trying to give my wingman here some good bagels and he goes off and gets himself in trouble. Tsk tsk,” they tut with the brightest smile Bruno has ever seen. It is about to blind him. 

Valdemar grabs both of the coffees from Sebastian, taking a sip from one. “Hey, Oscar, you like coffee?” He asks, peeking out of the room while Sebastian is in shock and awe. 

“My coffee!”

“No. Mine and Oscar’s. There you go, bud. Enjoy it. No need to say anything,” Valdemar laughs, passing the cup to a very quiet Oscar who raises his cup in an almost thank you sort of manner. 

Bruno clears his throat and catches the attention of Sebastian. “You were late. I want both of you in your damn PT (Physical Training) gear when this is over. You’ll be running until I say you are done. I’ll assume you got the idea, considering you seem like you have your life a little bit more together than Pretty Boy over here.”

Sebastian snickers and nods his head, tossing the bag to Lukas. “Of course, Sir. I’ll make sure we are both on the track within ten minutes of the meeting being over. If not, you can kick us out of a plane while tied up.”

Bruno can feel his smile grow and he rolls his eyes. “Sure, uhuh. Don’t tempt me or Sergeant Ackermann over here. He seems like a damn sadist, almost five seconds away from waterboarding poor Lieutenant Kazemi over here.”

“Oh yeah, don’t remind me. I’ll get Mr. Pretty Face soon for ruining the fun,” Valdemar laughs and keeps drinking the coffee. “I will put you all through my own version of SERE training.”

I don’t doubt that… It would be good training, honestly.

“Alright, all of you in the hallway, now!” Bruno calls out, clapping his hands to get everyone back out. 

Bruno takes a moment to look around at his team, from judging eyes to eyes that already show respect. “Well, before I start this up, my name is Captain Bruno Christiansen Stenberg, and I’ll be the team leader for this task force. With how the world is right now, it was decided that there should be a dedicated force set up in place to handle the jobs that some would consider ‘black ops’ or ‘unauthorized use of force’. That being said, a lot will be asked from each and every one of you, perhaps more than you could ever think possible. You will all be pushed past the breaking point, but as long as I live and as long as I draw breath, I won’t let you all down.”

All of their faces vary from excitement to slight fear, but Bruno has something that he needed from the very beginning: their attention and their honor. 

Valdemar raises his hand. “So what are we going to be called, Captain?”

Lukas grins and offers a suggestion. “How about ‘The Dream Team’?”

Sebastian holds back a laugh. “I kind of like that.”

Miranda keeps a steady gaze on Bruno and for a second, Bruno can swear he sees a small hint of high regard. “Maybe for now, we can be that, but I am sure we already have an official title.”

Oscar, surprisingly, speaks up. “Dream Team.”

Kieran rolls his eyes and leans back against the wall. “I don’t care what we are called as long as it isn’t something stupid.”

Khystyna smiles and points at Lukas. “That’s not a bad idea.”

“Then there we have it. For our own amusement, we’ll go by ‘The Dream Team’,” Bruno agrees, crossing his arms and feeling good about it all. 

Maybe he can do this.

No…

He has to. 

[taestefully-in-luv]

Always You | JJK (Five)

Summary: you and Jungkook have been best friends since freshmen year of college, there’s a lot of unsaid feelings and tension but neither make a move. what happens when his friend Taehyung (also your crush) needs a fake girlfriend?

Pairing: Jungkook x Female reader, slight Taehyung x Reader

Genre: friends to lovers, idiots to lovers, slight slow burn, roommate au, college au, SMUT (starting ch2), fluff, angst (in later chapters) slight crack, lots of drama

Word Count: 12.1k

Warnings: Swearing, alcohol consumption, sexual tension (?) sad oc, mentions of sex, kind of over the clothes action, drama, heated dance session lol, slight memory of sex, hair pulling, back scratching, mention of boner, second chances (?)

Notes: Okay, first of all THAT 1st TEASER PIC!!! DID WE SEE THAT? *chefs kiss*. Anyway thanks for comments you guys leave I really love reading them!!! Remember to send an ask if you want to be added to the taglist or just want to chat about the story:) have a great week everyone!

Taglist: @mooniyooni @thisartemisnevermisses @giadalin @kookiebunny097 @cosmosjk @moonchild1 @just-jeon @anpanman-sonyeondan @starlight-night0 @yessii-i @apollukee @mikasaredscarf1 @kaye-rosales @bunnyjeonjk @dyriddle @seagulljk @hass-mich-los @peachy-skz0325 @wonusbitch

© taestefully-in-luv

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May

Gloomy: The dictionary may describe it as hopeless and despairing but really it should just be a picture of your sad, sad face.

1 month…yes, one whole month has passed since you last spoke to Jungkook. No text, no calls, no random show ups, nothing. Gloom. Gloom. Gloom. Graduation came and gone so quickly…you walked the stage with your friends minus two but honestly you can hardly remember the event. You tried your hardest to be as excited as everyone else but the feeling of gloom stayed with you.

By the end of the month you finally started accepting he isn’t coming back and right around that time you actually heard from him���Jungkook that is. He sent you a pathetic text that he’s moving out and will be by to retrieve his things. More gloom.

The next couple weeks after that are a blur, you recall the sound of movers throughout your apartment. You didn’t have the courage to speak to him…you didn’t have the courage to even leave your room if you didn’t have to. You were so wrapped up in everything you didn’t even consider that fact that you will have to find a new roommate to cover the other half of the rent.

Every day just dragged on, every day a repeat of the last. Wake up, drown in black coffee, scroll mindlessly through your phone and work your full time job. You called in sick too many days already so you have to go or you’re at risk at getting fired. The same day, every day. The same gloomy fucking day.

Jimin tried to call or text every day to make sure you were like, alive. He apologized over and over for not telling you as soon as he found out about the Taehyung situation but he felt that if Taehyung was going to tell you then it is best it comes from him and not Jimin. You can understand that. He also frequently would show up at your apartment to surprise you but you rarely let him in. You did feel bad though, he’s just trying to be there for you.

Jimin 6:04pm

Please let me in?

Jimin 6:05pm

Well…I have some take out for you babe, ill leave it on the doorstep.

Jimin 6:05pm

Call me sometime ok? Love you

Guilt would consume your body but you just couldn’t deal with human contact right now.

June

Around month 2 you finally felt okay to see people again—your close people that is—aka Jimin was finally allowed in, he made you take a hot bath while he cleaned up for you and made you a proper meal. The amount of instant ramen containers lying around the place was by far one of the grossest things he’s seen. The shit that was growing…he shudders just thinking about it.

He would come over every day after work in the evenings. He left day time babysitting to Trina.

“Girl…all this over a boy?” she would constantly say.

You also tried applying for job after job, but the postgraduation life is harder than you thought…at least for you. Jimin landed a job as a kids choreographer, Trina starts up at one of the local elementary schools as a kindergartner teacher and you? You’re still working at the bakery down the street. You applied for many entry level positions in the marketing field but failed miserably in interviews…which only further discouraged you and worsened your mood.

It was also around this time you decided to finally delete Jungkook off all social media and block his number. You refuse to hear from him at this point…not that he was reaching out or anything. You wonder what he’s up to postgraduation? No, you don’t want to know or care. You considered hanging up a picture of his face on your wall so you could throw darts at it but you decided that was maybe on the crazy side. Taehyung sends you weekly texts, asking about how your day/week is going. He updates you on his life as well, apparently he got the curator assistant position at the museum that he wanted. You still feel hurt over everything but you are happy for him. It’s funny, you feel so betrayed over that but Jungkook is the cause of your gloom.

Every day just drags on, you feel heavy everywhere you go. Even when you’re just at home in bed.

By the end of the month your friends somehow convinced you to go on a date—a horrible date at that.

He was awkward as hell, a bad kisser and would lightly…tap your ass in attempt to be sexy. It was a disaster, you don’t even remember what the two of you even talked about at dinner. You just remember his tongue being horribly shoved down your throat and his weird ass tapping habit.

July

Then month 3 finally came around. A month where the weeks went by breathing became just a bit easier. Yes, any and everything still reminded you of Jungkook but it didn’t hurt as terribly as the previous months. By the end of the month you even agreed to your first real social outing. You are hesitant, but you agreed…

“I don’t know guys…a birthday party? We like, don’t even know the girl?” you frown, nibbling on the flesh of your bottom lip.

You are sitting in the middle of your bedroom floor, clothes piling all around you as you try to decide on what to wear.

“You need to get out babe…plus it’s a friend of a friend, so it’s cool.” Jimin says holding up a rose colored crop top, motioning for you to nod yes or no to his suggestion. You cock your head to the side, deciding what pants to go with it.

“I have to say I agree with Jimin, y/n.” your new roommate Holly chips in, “Since I’ve moved in I don’t think I’ve seen you go out even once.”

“Also a party is the best place to find some easy dick.” Of course that’s what Trina has to offer.

“Yes to the crop top Jimin.” You point your head towards the shirt, “Okay don’t have to call me out like that Holly.” You glare at your roomie, “And Trina, we both know I ain’t ready for no type of dick.”

“So we’re looking for some pussy tonight?” Trina smirks, “Nice.”

You rolls your eyes, a chuckle escaping your lips, “Shut up.” you throw a pair of shorts at her face.

“But seriously y/n…Maybe Trina is on to something…” Jimin sits down next to you, crossing his legs in front of him, “Maybe this is a good chance to like—”

“If you say move on I will literally kill you.” You cut in, “There’s nothing to move on from!” you throw your hands up dramatically. “Taehyung used me, Jungkook wants nothing to do with me. And—”

“Then why aren’t you ready for any type of dick?” Holly puts in her 2 fucking cents.

“Because I don’t want to be associated with any boys! Jimin is the exception.”

“Somehow I don’t feel flattered by that…” Jimin puts a hand on your shoulder.

“When’s the last time you got off?” Trina abruptly asks. You turn your head in shock at her shamelessness.

“Trina!”

“Answer her, I’m curious too.” Jimin squints at you trying not to laugh.

“It’s…” your eyes slide to the side, “It’s been a while.”

Trina shakes her in disapproval, “Damn girl, really? My fingers constantly playing DJ, you know what I’m sayin?” Trina goes in for a fist bump but you just push her hand away.

“You’re gross.” You laugh out loud, and it sounds like music to everyone’s ears.

“I’m just real babey.” She flicks her hair back with a proud smile on her face.

Having these 3 around has no doubt helped you deal with the loss you feel. You feel like you are still mourning the dead. How’s Jungkook even doing? You’re too afraid to ask Jimin. Too afraid that he’s doing amazing without you. He must of realized how much better off he is without you around and that makes you feel small.

“Fine…” you mutter under your breath…Jimin snaps his head to look at you, his sly smile growing as he watches you fiddle with a short mini skirt.

“Fine what?” Trina asks with a smirk.

“Let’s find me some dick tonight.”

“Hell fucking yeah.” Jimin claps his hands together, “Tonight is about you!”

“y/n makes her debut tonight! She’s hot, she’s single and she is ready to mingle!”

You can’t help but giggle, your hands bunching up the material of the mini skirt as you look down at it, making your decision.

“Let me get ready and we can get this night started!” you rush to your feet, all the sudden feeling excited for tonight. You are going to actually do your hair and your makeup—you even shaved. You are definitely breathing easier tonight and you have to take advantage of that!

“Let’s do shots as we wait girlies,” Holly shows a bottle of rum she had hiding behind her back, shaking it in excitement.

“Naughty girl.” Jimin winks, standing to his feet, heading towards the kitchen to grab some shot glasses.

You get ready quickly, but taking your time where it counts. You give yourself a once over in the mirror and you have to say you are impressed. Your black jean mini skirt sits right below your ass, while your tits pop in this rose crop top. You wear short heels, and simple jewelry with just the right amount of makeup that makes your features stand out, and you have to say you would kiss yourself if you could—you look fucking good.

“woooooo” Jimin and Trina whistle out at the same time as they walk back in your bedroom.

“I’d fuck.” Jimin says plainly.

“Same as fuck.” Trina says bluntly as she swallows down a shot.

“Yeah you look pretty y/n!” Holly smiles, not really on the same level of honestly as your other two friends.

You burst into giggles, throwing your head back in approval. “Thanks guys…..Lets fucking do this.” You walk towards Trina and grab her shot glass, and you take the bottle from Holly, pouring yourself a shot.

“Ready to fucking mingle.” You gulp down the rum, the burn only encouraging you, the warmth stinging your entire chest and you couldn’t feel more content.

This house was one of the bigger ones, it was full of people and more people and like, more people. You managed to swallow down 3 or 4 shots back at your apartment and the alcohol is definitely working its magic on you, the world just a little nicer.

The amount of people doesn’t even bother you like it usually would, instead you find yourself barging through the front door and making your way to the dance floor with your 3 friends trialing behind you.

The heat of the living room is already intoxicating you, the amount of bodies rolling and grinding makes you feel loose and free. Before you know it Jimin is pushing a drink into your hands and you hug him gratefully as you begin chugging it back.

“Woah slow down, we have all night—actually fuck it, I like your spirit tonight!” he chuckles lightly, his hands going to your waist, rocking you to the beat of the blaring music. Trina and Holly disappear into the kitchen to grab more drinks while you and Jimin dance to whatever b…t…ah, forget it, you forgot the band’s name.

“Are you having fun?” Jimin slurs out, his eyes barely visible as he laughs at nothing.

“So much fun!” you yell out over the music then you lean down into his ear and whisper, “Thanks so much Jiminie…I know I was a little difficult…”

“A little?” he teases.

Jimin’s eyes travel behind you before they are widening. You notice, of course. You are about to turn your head to take a look at whatever he is seeing when his snaps back to you in panic, his troubled smile growing.

“Let’s go find Trina and Holly, yeah?” he tries to usher you toward the kitchen and you oblige. Too drunk and feeling too good that his odd behavior goes ignored by you.

“Kay!” you smile, hooking your arm with his. “Letsa go!” you say like you’re fucking Mario.

The two of you walk to the kitchen, finding Trina and Holly playing a game of beer pong with two random guys.

“Hello my bitches!” Trina hollers over the thumping bass, as she scores a cup of pong, her other hand on Hollys lower back.

“Wait, gotta use the bathroom, be right back!” you slur into Jimin’s ear, he just nods distractedly as he watches the game, laughter erupting his body for probably no drunken reason.

You walk back into the living room and start heading towards the other side where the bathroom is. The journey to the bathroom is fun, you accidently bump into a lot of people but they don’t seem to mind as they will just drunkenly smile at you and you would smile back in your own drunken daze. You skim the room with a dopey smile on your face, just admiring the crowd. You are shocked with yourself…you missed people and you cannot believe it. You continue to observe when your eyes land on tattooed hands. The hands are grabbing a handful of ass on the dance floor. You know these hands. Your eyes travel from his hands to his strong arms to his face…it is hiding in the nook of some girls neck and you feel like someone knocked the wind out of you. Jungkook.

He is kissing on some girl, no doubt leaving bruises behind from his attack on her neck. His hands cupping this girls ass so tightly, he guides her hips into his. You watch as she throws her head back in pleasure and you see him smirk. All his signature moves. You are left speechless. What could you even say? Why does this hurt? Why does this make you feel fucking sick? Why does it feel like you aren’t supposed to be witnessing this? Well, you know why but god, why?!

“y/n!!” It’s Jimin, jogging up behind you, “Fuck, I was trying to avoid you seeing this…” he admit softly, “I swear I didn’t think he was going to be here tonight…he didn’t seem that interested when I asked him about it…”

“It’s fine Jimin…” you mumble.

“Does it feel weird? Seeing him with this girl…?” Jimin is obviously trying to get you to admit something right now but you are not in the right head space to even give it a second thought.

“Why should it? Plus I’m used to this…she’s just some random girl for one night.” You twirl the ends of your hair between your fingers.

“Oh babe…” Jimin glances down at the ground, “This girl…she…he’s brought her to every party for the last month…” Jimin sounds as sorry as you feel.

The same girl? That’s impossible, you scoff. There’s no way Jungkook is actually seeing someone. But that doesn’t stop your stomach from twisting and turning and making you feel fucking sick.

“What do you mean?” you finally slur out, leaning your frame on Jimin.

“He brings her and they leave together too…” Jimin holds on to you, “I haven’t really asked him about her though.”

“Whatever. Fuck him, right? I won’t let this ruin my night.” You smile coyly, draping your arms around your friend. “Bathroom please.” You pout theatrically, pointing your head towards the bathroom.

“Okay let’s get you peeing in peace.” Jimin laughs, guiding you towards the door.

Once at the door, you knock a couple times to find that it is empty, “I’ll wait for you out here.” Jimin assures you.

Once inside the small room, you bunch up your skirt and pull down your panties, squatting on the toilet. You sigh in relief as you pee, but the relief you feel in your body stops when you recall the way Jungkook held and kissed this random but not so random girl.

Why should it bother you? It’s about time Jungkook got serious! But why did he have to dump you to achieve that? And why did It have to be with someone el…

You reach for the toilet paper, ripping it after a few sheets and wipe yourself as you drunkenly sing a tune. So what? You can easily replace Jungkook too!

You stand up, pulling your panties up and your skirt down and take a long good look in the mirror. Your hair is still intact, your makeup is only a little smeared—quick fix, and your tits are still poppin’. This night is just beginning, you decide. A whole new wave of confidence begins washing over you.

“Ready!” You pounce on Jimin’s back, he stumbles forward while laughing wholeheartedly.

“Should we look for Trina and Holly again? They’re probably still playing beer pong!”

“Sure.” You smile, walking hand in hand with Jimin as you make your way back to the kitchen.

Hours pass and you are now outside on the back porch piss drunk with your 3 friends and a couple new friends. Nick and his pal that you can’t remember the name of—but you remember Nick. He’s really tall and has nice muscles covering his body, his light hair is messy and looks like you would have fun pulling it.

“And that’s why I think aliens are already here bro, like they are probably here at this fucking party bro.” No name friend finishes his point. Nick holds in his chuckle as his drunk friend rambles.

“Totally bro.” Then his eyes land on you. Fuck, were you staring? Oh well, it’s best to get to the point. You two have been making eyes at each other all night and it’s time to make the next move.

“Hey Nick, wanna grab a drink with me in the kitchen?” you inquire with a sly smile.

Jimin’s eyes widen before he’s smirking “Don’t be silly, wrap that willy.”

Trina and Holly laugh at Jimin’s words while you turn fucking red with embarrassment.

“Sorry about him…” You excuse Jimin, but you continue to smile slyly.

Nick grins with all his teeth as he takes your hand and leads you back inside the house. His hand is much larger than yours and you are already imagining what his beefy fingers will do to your vagina. God, what’s his dick like???

You enter the kitchen and you and him walk towards the cooler full of beers, he lets you stand to the side as he goes to grab them.

“Nick!!!!” you hear a familiar voice and you wince. Jungkook stands next to the cooler, his hand wrapped around the girls hand, but he briefly lets go of it to dap up your fuck for the night.

“What’s up bro!” Nick returns the handshake, a wide smile on his face.

They know each other?

“I thought you said you weren’t coming tonight?” Jungkook’s hand goes back to holding on to the girl.

“I wasn’t going to but,” he nods towards you, “Glad I did.” He winks. Jungkook’s eyes follow Nicks nod and when he sees you stand there awkwardly he goes completely pale. Your eyes meet uncomfortably, Jungkook let’s go of the girls hand without a second thought.

“y/n?” he questions with a pained expression.

“You know her?” Nick asks, totally out of the loop.

You shift from one foot to the other, not really sure what to do or say. So you settle for his name. “Jungkook.” It feels foreign on your tongue. Like if you said it 3 times in a mirror a sinister ghost would come to murder you.

Jungkook opens his mouth then closes it then opens it then closes it again.

“Baaaaabe,” the girl next to him whines, “let’s get out of here already.” She says, not even acknowledging your existence.

Jungkook shamelessly eyes you up and down, his shock is very evident as he looks at you.

You can’t help but smile a little, knowing you look damn good.

“Let’s go too, Nick.” You saunter to his side, grabbing a hold of his bicep.

That’s when Jungkook knocks out of daze, his brows crease as he looks between the two of you.

“Wait—you and Nick?” he asks, completely amused.

“Is that a problem?”

“Nope.” Jungkook looks fucking smug as he smiles, his hand going to grab the girls hand again. “See you later?” he asks you. You of all people! “Uh? Probably not?”

“I wouldn’t be so sure of that.” Jungkook winks, turning around to leave as he leads his girl out.

Nick just continues to smile, completely oblivious, “So cool that we all know each other!” he grips on to your waist.

“Wait, how do you know Jungkook?”

“We—”

“Wait, it honestly doesn’t matter. Let’s just get out of here.”

“My place?” Nick breathes into your ear, he pushes your hips into his crotch so you can feel his half hard cock.

“Why are you already getting hard?” you tease, leaning up to kiss his neck.

“Honestly, I can’t stop staring at your tits. And I am imagining all the things I want to do to them.” He confesses hotly.

The uber ride to his place is short, only 10 minutes and it goes by quickly as you two have one another’s tongues down each others throats. His hands traveling all around your body, he even manages to slip his fingers past your panties to feel how wet you are.

“Fuck I can’t wait to get you inside…” his rapid breaths fan across your face as you nibble on his neck.

“Gonna fuck me?” you whisper quietly, not trying to get heard by the Uber driver, but you could also hardly care if he hears you or not, he gets 5 stars.

“Want you to ride me.” He palms his cock through his pants as he imagines you bouncing on his cock for him.

“If you deserve it like a good boy.” You replace his hand with your own, rubbing him ferociously over his jeans. You haven’t felt dick in months and the feeling is driving you absolutely wild, you haven’t felt this needy in a long time.

The Uber comes to a stop, parking in front of an apartment building. He lets the two of you know you reached your destination. You and Nick giggle as you thank him and stumble out of the car as you follow him to his apartment. He would stop every few seconds to plant kisses on your lips and grab your ass with a tight squeeze. He groans and rolls his eyes back as he explores your body.

“Wait til we’re inside,” you breathe out, your voice silky as hell.

Finally, after a short, kiss filled elevator ride later you arrive at his front door. His lips never leaving yours as he pulls out his keys, fumbling with them until he finds the right one.

He pulls away for a second to unlock the door and desperately pushes it open to let the two of you inside. Your lips are already back on his as you two trip into the entry way of the apartment, you walk him backwards, until his back is against a wall.

The apartment is dark besides the living room TV, you take a second to pull back and admire Nick’s fucked out expression, the blue glow of the TV making everything feel surreal.

You dive back in to kiss him, he prods his tongue into your mouth, swirling it around with yours making you moan into his mouth.

“Hi guys!”

Your eyes shoot open, mouth still attached to Nicks. You push your head back, disconnecting from Nick and yank your head to the left where you see a wild Jungkook sitting on the living room sofa, his mouth full of the cereal he is eating. He is wearing the most shit eating grin you have ever seen on him.

“Jungkook?! What the fuck?” You spit out, totally fucking shocked. Like, obviously.

“Hey man…” Nick breathes out heavily, trying to speak properly, “I thought you would be at Vanessa’s tonight?”

“Nah,” Jungkook smiles, “Dropped her off and came home.”

HOME?

“H-Home?” You look between the two guys, what the fuck does he mean by that. This is Nicks place, right?

“Oh you didn’t know?” Jungkook nods his head toward Nick, “Nick here is my beloved roommate.”

“What the fuck…” you mutter under your breath, trying to understand the mother fucking situation. Were you about to fuck Jungkook’s roommate? Are you still going to is the real question?

“Wait, how do you two even know each other?” Nick starts to look antsy, “Don’t tell me she’s one of the girls you’ve fucked…come on bro, leave some for the rest of us.” He chuckles somewhat bitterly.

“No!” you’re quick to say. You begin smoothing out your skirt, then your hair. “We just…”

“y/n is my bestie!” Jungkook grins, putting the cereal down and standing up. He walks forward until he is making a triangle with you and Nick.

“Was.” You spit out harshly, crossing your arms across your chest. Nick just stands there confused as hell, looking between the two of you.

“Anyway, I should get going.” You turn your body to Nick, a look of apology on your face.

“What? We can just go to my room?” he slurs, tugging on his pants uncomfortably, his boner still apparent.

“Sorry, no longer in the mood.”

You pull out your phone to order an Uber when Jungkook takes your phone from you.

“I’m not drunk, I can drive you.” He offers. You push your head back in disbelief, how does Jungkook have the AUDACITY to offer that to you?

“Why the fuck would I want that?”

“So we can…” His eyes slide over to the ever growing confused Nick, “Talk.”

You haven’t spoken to Jungkook in 3 months and today is finally the day you are able to breathe a little easier and he just has to barge back in.

“Like I said,” You snatch your phone back from him, “Why the fuck would I want that?”

Nick shifts around uncomfortably, his eyes darting from you to Jungkook.

“Well, I am gonna head to my room…uh, bye y/n…it was nice meeting you…I guess…”

You and Jungkook both turn your heads toward Nick at the same time, eyes shooting daggers at him.

“Yeah, bye.” Jungkook dismisses his roommate, his jaw clenching.

“Nice to meet you too…”

Nick walks backward until his back meets his bedroom room, he looks at the two of you one last time before turning around to disappear into his room.

“I said, let me drive you home.”

“And I said, why the fuck would I want that?”

“y/n don’t choose now to be difficult.” Jungkook takes a step closer to you, his hands running through his dark, messy hair. His eyes shut in frustration, “I just want to talk to you.”

“And I don’t want to talk to you.” You take a step back, “Plus, how would your girlfriend feel if you took me home?”

Jungkook’s eyes narrow, his mouth setting in a firm line.

“She’s not my girlfriend.”

“Could of fooled me and like, everyone else.” You scoff.

Jungkook bites down on his bottom lip, not knowing what to say. While she’s not his girlfriend she’s also not not his girlfriend. It’s complicated.

“Can I please, just please, can I take you home?”

“No, Jungkook. The fucking audacity,” you scoff again, “You haven’t spoken to me in 3 months,” your voice fucking cracks and you feel like dying. “Don’t start now.”

“y/n…” he runs another frustrated hand down his tired face, “I didn’t mean for it to go this long…” “I don’t fucking care, Jungkook.”

You feel your chest begin to burn, and your eyes begin to gloss over but you won’t cry. You won’t give him the satisfaction.

“I want nothing to do with you.”

You stare at the phone in your hands as you begin ordering your Uber when he yanks it from your hands once again, he hides the phone in his back pocket and you snarl.

“What the hell Jeon?”

“I said I am driving you home so we can talk so that’s what we are gonna fucking do, okay?” he grabs your hand and begins walking you towards the front door. There’s something about Jungkook...you decide to listen. You watch silently as he puts on his shoes and grabs his wallet and keys.

“Okay…” you finally answer, your voice timid.

He said you guys are going to talk but the car ride has been mostly silent save the low radio playing in the background. Maybe it’s better this way, you think. You aren’t sober, that’s for sure but you also don’t think you are drunk enough to handle this properly. You decide maybe that’s also for the best.

“You sir, are a fucking asshole.” You speak up, your fingers playing with the zipper of your purse. The car smells like it always does, his fresh laundry car freshener and you get sucked into a million memories linked with this scent.

“I know.” Jungkook eyes you from the driver seat, you shiver from the running AC and so he turns it down, “There’s a blanket in the back if you want to grab it.”

“No thanks, don’t know where that’s been.”

“It’s clean, I promise.”

Your eyes go wide as you recall his last promise to you…”Just a few days. I promise.”

“Yeah, I don’t actually believe in your promises anymore.” You continue to pick at the zipper of your purse, your eyes never leaving the zig and zag of the material.

“I needed space y/n, fucking sue me.” He groans out, his fingers gripping the steering wheel tightly.

“Oh I wish I could.” You snap back.

You feel your chest burn and tighten again, your eyes slightly watering. You have to force them shut to keep from any tears growing.

“I called and texted you every day.” You whisper, his grip getting tighter on the steering wheel.

“I gave you a few days Jungkook. But I never heard from you until 11 at night one night telling me you are fucking moving out.”

“I know, that was…fucked up, I admit. But I had to do what I had to do and I just wish you would let me explain that—”

“No.” you cut him off, “You don’t deserve to explain anything.”

“You mean so much to me y/n…”

“Don’t.”

Jungkook pulls over on the side of the road, turning off the ignition.

“What are you doing?” you sputter out.

He clicks his seatbelt off his body and turns to face you, “Getting comfortable.”

“Why?”

“Will you look at me?” Jungkook tilts his head towards you, “Will you please look at me?”

“No.” you stay facing forward, your hands folded in your lap.

“y/n…please.” His voice sounds strained and you almost feel bad. Almost, but not quite.

You don’t need this…you don’t need him. Ouch, you feel pain in your chest as you think that…oh, the lies you tell yourself.

“Say what you need to say Jungkook, so you can take me home.” Your face stays neutral.

Jungkook sighs out, feeling almost defeated, but not quite.

“I…I am so sorry.” He finally says.

“About what?”

“Everything y/n.” his voice cracks and somehow you feel satisfied.

“You’ll have to be more specific if you ever want my acceptance”

“I know…the first thing I am sorry for is not telling you about Taehyung. That was…that was wrong of me—”

“No shit, but go on.” Your voice stays steady as you speak.

“I was worried about other shit, I was selfish and it’s taking me a long time to forgive myself…but I’ve thought a lot about it these last few months and—and…”

“Oh? You’re worried about you forgiving yourself? Shouldn’t you be a little more concerned about I don’t know, me?”

Jungkook frowns at your words, because well, you’re right. And he’s getting to that part but you keep interrupting him. But he lets you.

“Yes. I am most worried about you, of course.” He breathes out. “You have no idea what these 3 months without you have felt like…”

“Really Jungkook? If anyone knows its fucking me. I went 3 months without you too. You left me!” you start to lose your composure as you speak, your hands gripping on to your poor purse. “When I was going through a really hard time you straight up left me.” You whisper.

“Please believe me…I had my reasons. It was truly for the best y/n.”

“For the best?” you scoff. “You’re such an asshole.”

Jungkook winces at your words, he knows you mean them and that hurts him even more.

“Can you just trust me?” Jungkook blurts out.

Huh? You shake your head, disappointed he would say something so …well, ridiculous.

“Just stop, Jungkook.” You hesitantly roll your eyes, still shaking your head.

Jungkook licks his lips over and over, trying to figure out his next words.

“I really really,” he begins to lose it, his eyes darting all around the car. “just need you to trust me.” He blinks repeatedly, his eyes not focusing on anything in particular.

You, of course, do not believe your ears. Trust him? How could you possibly trust him?

“I just really…I really had my reasons y/n. And I’m sorry, but I just need you to just trust me, that I had my reasons and that I do care about you.” His voice is shaky and you’re uncertain how to take this information.

“I’m confused…” you begin, you tuck a strand of hair behind your ear. “You want me to trust you? Even after you left me? Even after I ‘threw myself’ at you?!”

“You weren’t in the right head space y/n…you were vulnerable and…and you didn’t actually want me. You just were feeling used and rejected and needed something to make you feel wanted. To feel better. You wanted to use me for that and I couldn’t let you. But how much could I handle? You liked one of my friends, dated him…sort of, even slept with him and I had to be your shoulder to cry on when,” his breathing picks up heavily as he tries to speak, “it doesn’t matter.” He grits out.

You sit there…speechless. He wasn’t wrong, was he? You were feeling lost and rejected and used and you just wanted something or someone to feel better and who better than your best friend? But it’s also his fault you needed things to work out with Taehyung in the first place!

“Jungkook—”

“I’m not done.” He breathes out, his hot breath reaching your skin.

“I needed some space to think. But I realized I couldn’t properly think things through if I saw you every day, so yeah, I moved out. I’m sorry…” He runs a hand through his hair, a light chuckle makes it way past his lips “Then I met Vanessa.”

“I don’t want to talk about your little girlfriend.” You turn to face forward in your seat, your eyes glancing at the stop sign ahead.

“I told you, she’s not my girlfriend. But it is complicated.”

You continue to look straight ahead, your heart racing in your chest. The subject of “Vanessa” making you feel anxious.

“Complicated how?” you gulp.

“Don’t worry about it.” He laughs to himself, you turn your head to look at him.

“Are you serious, Jungkook?”

“We fuck y/n.”

“But it’s more than that right?”

“Yeah…” Jungkook bites down on his lip.

You look at him bewildered.

“Do you like her? Love her?”

You grip your purse in your lap, waiting for his answer. How would you feel if he answers yes? Are you brave enough to endure that answer? And if he says no? should you be happy? Should you feel relieved?

“No.” he closes his eyes, he folds his hands in front of him. “It’s complicated.”

You sign in relief—oh. Relief is the emotion you are feeling. Why? Why should it matter?

“Why are you telling me all of this?” you whisper.

“I want to be friends again, y/n.” he says softly, his eyes searching yours.

This is madness, how the hell could you save this friendship? Your face scrunches up and the first couple of tears slide down your cheeks, you shake your head as they continue to fall.

“You don’t know how this makes me feel…” you cry out. “I don’t even know how it makes me feel.”

You miss him, so fucking much and he’s right here offering himself to you. But you ‘re so hurt.

“y/n…I know I hurt you. But you gotta believe me when I say it is the hardest thing I have had to do…you understand that right? I had to do it…you understand right?” he begs.

“You were so quick to abandon me, Jungkook.” You drop your head into your hands, the tears uncontrollable now.

“I…” Jungkook begins to panic, his own eyes glossing over. “Fuck, I’m so sorry. Please y/n…I can make it up to you.”

“Things would never be the same, you get that right?” you bawl into your lap, your words coming out broken.

“Please baby, I just need you in my life again…” Jungkook admits, his own words choppy. He reaches his hand to touch you, to his surprise you don’t flinch. His hand cups the back of your head and he begins to massage it softly.

“I have missed you so much and nothing I mean nothing can replace you.” He hesitates to continue, “trust me…I have tried.”

You sob into your hands harder, the weight of his words crushing you.

“I’m sorry Jungkook but I…I don’t believe you.”

Jungkook’s eyes widen as he absorbs your words, his mouth falls open in shock. Don’t believe him?

“What—what do you mean? What are you saying?” his panic filled voice makes your stomach churn.

“I reject your offer. Now please take me home.” You lift your head and stare straight ahead. “I’m serious.”

Jungkook face twists into a bewildered expression, he doesn’t believe his ears. You…reject him?

“Wait—”

“I said take me home now.” This time you snap your face in his direction, the cold look in your eyes piercing his very soul.

“Okay.”

Hopeless: the dictionary describes it as without hope ; despairing. But in reality, it’s just a picture of Jungkook’s poor, poor face.

Jungkook parks in his designated spot in the lot of his apartment complex, he reverses in because why the hell not. So extra. His drive home was silent… not even the radio on a low volume keeping him company, just complete silence. He turns the car off but doesn’t make a move to get out, he just continues to sit here in his car and sigh out dramatically every 5 seconds.

He’s so confused and lost on what to do. He bangs his head against the steering wheel a few times just for the hell of it, he just…he didn’t think you would reject him. But honestly? Can he blame you? All he’s done lately is be selfish and mess up over and over again. But he wishes you could just trust him but he also wishes he could just tell you the truth. Maybe then you could understand his position and you wouldn’t be mad at him anymore. But he has to wait.

Jungkook’s head is still banging against the steering wheel when more thoughts of you bombard his mind. His breathing picks up and he starts to sniffle, he doesn’t want to cry but you just…you don’t want anything to do with him. He balls his hands into fists and hit the steering wheel over and over causing the horn to go off a few times but he doesn’t care he’s so upset, he just….

When Jungkook saw you tonight for the first time in 3 months he swears his heart actually stopped. He swears it raced so quickly that it just stopped. He let go of Vanessa’s hand so quickly because he wanted to rush to you and hug you close, he wanted to just feel you. Not having touched your skin for the last 3 months…he doesn’t want to imagine even another day.

A few tears slip past his closed lids, he chuckles darkly as he recalls you and Nick. He thought, wow, the universe is cruel and also hilarious. His fucking roommate? He shakes his head, laughing again but his lips remain downward. He feels so fucking helpless right now. But he deserves this, he deserves to feel this pain. He did this to himself and he’s fully aware of that.

Jungkook thinks of your face, he thinks of your smile, he thinks of your eyes and he cries harder, his tears landing on the steering wheel and sliding down landing on to his lap. Yes, he feels like all hope is lost but he knows he cannot give up. He will win you over again one day. He lifts his head and wipes his tear streaked cheeks with the back of his hand and breathes out steadily.

“y/n…” he whispers to himself. Your name leaves his mouth in frustration. He won’t give up. He can’t.

~~~~

“And they were roommates?!” Jimin shouts, a banana half sticking out of his mouth, Trina gasps and whispers “Oh my god they were roommates.”

“Yeah, it was a total shit show.” You bang your head against your breakfast table. Holly rubs your back as she sits next to you.

“Then what happened?” she pries further.

“Yeah what the hell happened y/n!” Jimin yells out.

“He asked to be friends again…and I totally rejected him. Maybe I was too harsh? He was so sad guys…it makes me think…I might agree to kind of being…friends?”

Jimin shuts his eyes as a frown decorates his face, he places a hand on his hip and he inhales a sharp breath, “Listen…you’re both my friends and of course I want you to be good again…but he hurt you …bad.”

“I know Jiminie, but his reasons…” you bite your lip, “Never mind.”

“Well, I don’t like it.” Trina butts in. “He fucking left you, remember?”

“Yes Trina, I fucking remember—”

“Then fucking act like it!”

“Trina relax,” Holly intervenes. “They have a long history, right? It’s hard to just forget about everything…”

Jimin stands from his chair, hands on both hips. “Fine, if we are doing this…then you better actually try. Don’t half ass shit, if you’re going to be friends then don’t be an asshole to him, don’t make snarky remarks…I know your ass.”

Jimin has a good point, you haven’t actually thought about how you will act.

“I’ll be a good girl.” You raise your right arm to salute him.

“Fucking smart ass.” He rolls his eyes.

“Are we serious right now?” Trina shakes her head, “You moped around for 3 fucking months y/n. You cried every time you even thought of Jungkook…which was a fucking lot.” She points out, “Listen, you stayed strong when you talked to him in the car. Don’t break just because you feel bad for the dude because he’s fucking pitiful. He doesn’t deserve your pity girl. He’s an asshole!”

“Trina, be nice.” Holly says sternly, reaching forward to grab on to Trina’s hand. Trina visibly relaxes and nods her head towards Holly and smiles softly.

You and Jimin share a look. Are they….?

“You…” You slam your eyes shut, Trina’s words ringing loudly in your ears. You know she’s right. “I’ll think about it some more. For now, I gotta get ready for work.”

~~~~

“Doesn’t Hazel look so pretty here?” Adam shoves his phone in your face as he gushes about his girlfriend.

“Yes dude, she’s so pretty.” You deadpan. “Now can you please put the brownies in the oven? We’re low.”

“Wait wait…here’s one of us together at the park.” He nudges his phone in your hands, you roll your eyes but you take it.

The two of them are sitting on a park bench, she’s leaning into his frame and they both have wide smiles on their faces. They seem so in love. And you know they are because fucking Adam reminds you every 20 seconds.

“Their love makes me sick.” Jade walks over, her hands patting down on her work apron, her tone is bland but she still tries to smile. “Like, we get it.”

“Who loves who more?” you begin with a toothy grin, “Adam to Hazel or Lenny to the sugar cookies?” you laugh while pointing at said Lenny stuffing his face with the reject cookies. Jade and Adam chuckle while they stare at him.

“Hey guys, really?” Lenny says with his mouth full. “You know I feel bad when we throw them away.” He pouts, crumbs decorating his lips.

“Lenny I catch you eating fresh ones all the time!” Adam points out.

“Sometimes they’re a little ugly…” Lenny reasons, “So I…”

“You don’t have to explain my guy, you just really love your cookies.” You hand Adam back his phone as you head towards the walk in freezer to take out the brownies yourself. You load up a tray and stick those suckers in the oven.

“You’re useless Adam.” Jade sticks a piece of gum in her mouth and chews obnoxiously “U-s-e-l-e-s-s. Useless.”

“You’re always so mean to me Jade what did I ever do to you?”

All 4 of you shoot your heads up when you hear the bell go off on the door of the bakery, its loud chime signaling the arrival of a customer.

“Oh.” Jade says while popping a bubble. “It’s your usual customer y/n.”

You tilt your head towards the front of the store to get a look at who she is talking about, and yup its him. Your most consistent customer who orders the same damn thing every single day. 2 oatmeal raisin cookies and that’s it.

“Can someone else just take care of him today?” you whine, “I’m not in the mood to argue.”

“You know he’s just going to ask for you…” Lenny says stuffing his face with another cookie.

“God damn it.” You huff out, you grab two gloves from the box on the counter and begin walking towards the front of the store.

You reach the front counter and take in your enemy—you mean, your customer.

“And what do I owe the pleasure Mister Oatmeal Raisin?” you raise a brow towards the man. He’s only a few inches taller than you, his hair is a sandy color today and you hate to admit it looks good on him.

“You know you could just call me by name.” the man sways side to side with a smirk on his face.

“I like Mister Oatmeal Raisin.”

He has been coming to this store for the last couple of months and you two…don’t necessarily get along swimmingly. He complains a lot and is a total smart ass. And you? Well, you’re not much better.

“Well, I’ll have my usual.” He smiles, “And you know the drill, please make sure there is a normal amount of raisins and not a million, I don’t want 8 raisins a bite. But one every now and then.”

You roll your eyes extremely dramatically, pressing the buttons on the screen for his order.

“Sir yes sir.” You salute towards him, “How could I not know the drill?”

“That’s the spirit.”

You spin on your heels and head towards the back to heat up his two cookies. You carefully select one cookie with barely any raisins and one cookie with a million, just like he didn’t want. You cackle to yourself as you place them in the baggy, feeling beyond satisfied.

“How haven’t you gotten fired?” Adam crosses his arms over his chest as he watches you, “And how hasn’t he complained about you? You do this every time I don’t get it.”

“He likes her.” Jade says plainly while scrolling through her phone.

“As fucking if!” you scoff, “He wants nothing but to annoy me!” But you can’t help but smile.

“He literally only asks for you every time you’re in.” Lenny reasons, “but you shouldn’t like him back…he likes the worst cookie on the menu. Sugar is where it’s at.”

You laugh at your coworker while walking back up towards the front of the store, reaching the counter.

“Your cookies!” you hand him the baggy with an evil smirk, “I hope you enjoy them.” You wink.

The man opens the baggy and inspects each cookie and with his own evil smirk he winks back at you, “Are we serious right now?” his sly smile doesn’t leave his face as he begins to complain, “You are such a brat.”

“$4 Mister Oatmeal Raisin.”

He hands you the cash, you put it away quickly and with a wide smile you gesture towards the door for him to leave.

“Min Yoongi.” He shakes the bag of cookies in front of him, “Not Mister Oatmeal Raisin.” He turns around and starts walking towards the door but before he exits he tilts his head to look at you one last time, “See you tomorrow…y/n.”

You feel a harsh blush creep up on your cheeks, or your whole face actually. Maybe your whole body. You feel taken aback he knows your name but then you remember you have a god damn name tag.

“Uh…yeah.”

“See you tomorrow…y/n.” all 3 of your coworkers mock in a deep voice.

“Shut up guys!” you whine into your hands, “Can we please just get back to work!”

~~~~~

A few weeks later

The drive to Jimin’s is a quick 7 minutes but you did take a little detour. You decided to stop at the pizzeria that’s on the way and grab a hot pizza for the two of you.

“Hehe.” You look over to the steamy food sitting in the passenger seat.

Jimin has been such a great friend to you all this time and you feel like you’ve never really thanked him…so, tonight you two are going to have a fun night in—he just doesn’t know it yet.

Who doesn’t love being surprised with food?

You pull up to Jimin’s apartment complex and after driving in circles you finally find a parking spot. You grab your purse, your backpack, and the pizza and make your way up to his apartment.

You knock on his front door a few times but get no answer. Maybe he’s not home? No, you definitely hear music coming from the other side…so, you decide to call him.

“Hello?”

“Jimin~ let me in!” you sing into the phone.

“You’re—you’re here?”

“Let me in already!” and with that you hang up and wait patiently outside the door.

A few moments pass before the door is opening up, when Jimin really registers that it’s you he’s kind of closing the door until only his face is shown through the crack.

“Ummm…yes?”

You quirk a brow at the boy, “What do you mean ‘yes?’ let me in!” you begin walking forward when a panicked Jimin opens the door wider to let himself outside and shut the door behind him.

“y/n…why are you here? Did we have plans tonight?” he looks down at the pizza in your hands.

“Not exactly…” you admit, “But I figured we could have a night in.”

Jimin frowns. Fucking frowns!

“Or not?” you say awkwardly.

You hear some sort of banging on the other side of the door and then it clicks.

“Oh? You have someone over?” you smirk.

“Uhhh…no. Nothing like that.” Jimin’s eyes slide to the side as he tries to think of what to say next.

“Babe—”

“Jimin!”

The door is being swung wide open and your eyes travel from some horrendous toes socks to some tight jeans to a striped t shirt to yes, Jungkook’s surprised face.

“Oh.” You both say at the same time.

You and Jungkook stare at one another for a few moments, neither of your eyes leaving the other when Jimin clears his throat.

“Sorry y/n. Jungkook is already over…” he gives you an apologetic smile.

“Is it just you two?” you ask quietly.

“Huh? Uh, yeah.”

You glance down at the pizza and think to yourself. You and Jungkook may not be friends but you can be civil? Yeah, totally! You can definitely be civil! You already bought this fucking pizza so you and Jimin are going to eat it! And you guess, Jungkook too.

“Okay, let me in.” you start shoving your way past Jimin, you watch as his and Jungkook’s eyes go wide.

“Maybe you didn’t hear him, but I am already hanging out with him?” Jungkook sputters out. He awkwardly moves to the side anyway to let you through.

“I can be civil with you Jungkook. Plus, I don’t want this pizza to go to waste. So let’s eat.” You walk through, nudging the pizza box into Jungkook’s hands, he takes it while looking at Jimin with shocked eyes.

Jimin just shrugs and follows you inside.

“Yeah, let’s eat.” He says nonchalantly.

Jungkook is left at the door with the pizza in his hands as he is left completely dumbfounded. He is malfunctioning.

“Jungkook?” you call out over your shoulder, “Hurry up, I’m hungry!”

“Yeah, Jungkook hurry up!” Jimin smirks, he isn’t totally sure what’s going on but he kind of likes it.

“So what were you guys doing before I got here?” you shove an entire slice of pizza down your throat, the sauce getting left behind on your lips.

“I was teaching Jungkook some of my dance moves…we made a bet that he couldn’t learn the entire routine in 3 times…and—”

“Let me guess, he fucking learned it.” You laugh.

Jimin groans, his head thrown back as he begins nodding his head ‘yes.’

“So annoying! What can’t he do!” Jimin throws the pizza crust in the box and Jungkook immediately picks it up and eats it.

“Pshh, I could name a few things.” You point out bitterly. “But we won’t get into that.”

“Yeah, please don’t.” Jimin pleads.

“I’m curious…what is it you think I cant do?” Jungkook quirks a brow at you and your eyes darken in his direction.

“You really want me to?” you take a napkin and wipe your lips, “It’s nothing nice.” You admit.

“Oh then yes, please don’t.” Jungkook is quick to say.

“Yes, please don’t.” Jimin begs again.

The 3 of you are sitting on the living room floor, maybe only 30 minutes or so has passed by and it’s not too awkward. But it’s not necessarily comfortable either. Jimin looks between you and Jungkook constantly, waiting for someone to crack but neither of you really speak to each other. Both of you really only communicating with Jimin.

“So Jimin, are you going to show me another routine?”

“Why? So you can prove you’re the master of everything again? No thanks.”

“Jimin, maybe you can show me a few steps?”

Jimin smiles awkwardly while Jungkook is quick to burst out laughing. You snap your head towards Jungkook and raise your brows at him.

“Why is Jungkook laughing, Jimin?”

“Umm…” Jimin smiles softly, “You aren’t the most…”

Jungkook laughs harder as he watches Jimin trying to explain.

“Aren’t the most…?” You tilt your head towards the boy.

“C’mon y/n don’t make me say it…” Jimin drags out his words in a whine, he plays with his fingers, looking around the room awkwardly.

“Just say it Jimin.” Jungkook chuckles out.

“If you’re trying to say I’m a bad dancer, we all know that’s not true!” you defend once you catch on, you pout at the boys.

“Well…”

“You have both told me I am a good dancer!”

“Well, you know how to move. But steps…following a routine…that’s different. You aren’t very coordinated.” Jimin finally admits, a sheepish grin on his face.

“He means you can roll your hips but your feet are clumsy as fuck.” Jungkook says, still laughing at the situation.

“Shut up.” You glare at Jungkook.

“No, he’s right.” Jimin begins laughing as well, he looks at you and smiles. Well, if Jimin is saying it…maybe it might be true. It’s not like you didn’t kind of know. But still!

“Fine, whatever. Don’t teach me then.”

Suddenly, Jimin’s phone is going off and he rushes to the kitchen to answer it. You and Jungkook eat your pizza in silence, awkwardly catching one another’s gaze.

“So—”

“Don’t talk to me.” You cut in. Jimin isn’t here so it’s not like you have to be totally social with Jungkook.

“Oh.” Jungkook dramatically slumps his shoulders and pouts. You watch him as he throws a silent fit like the baby he is. “Okay.”

Jimin walks back into the living room looking annoyed, he stands between you two and throws a hand on his hip.

“I have to go down to the front office, there was a mix up in packages…I shouldn’t take too long…” he bites down on his plump bottom lip, “Please be civil while I’m gone. Jungkook…” he looks at the boy then at you, “y/n…” he warns.

“Sir yes sir!” you salute towards your friend with a straight face.

Jimin only narrows his eyes as he looks between you two.

“I’m serious…” he says.

Then he is putting on some shoes and heading out the front door, the soft click making you shudder. You’re alone with Jungkook.

A few minutes pass and you both awkwardly just sit there, sometimes catching the other looking. You finally huff out and accidentally giggle.

“What’s funny?” Jungkook’s curiosity getting the best of him.

“It’s just…I feel like we’re Jimin’s divorced parents and we’re trying to be civil for our child.”

Jungkook stares at you with scrunched brows, then looks away while a chuckle escapes his lips.

“Yeah. You’re right.”

You only nod your head in response. You two go back to the awkward silence.

You aren’t used to this…this awkward and odd silence that lingers between you two. It feels so fucking suffocating you almost wish you were on total talking terms so you didn’t have to endure this shit show.

“You know I could…no, forget it.” Jungkook bites his nails as he speaks, “I…”

“What?” you don’t mean to snap at him, but somehow even talking with an attitude feels better than not talking at all.

“I was going to say…I could teach you some steps…then you could surprise Jimin. He’s been working on a salsa piece…I can teach you some? Then maybe he will stop talking shit on your dancing.” Jungkook laughs awkwardly.

“Wait—he talks shit?!” somehow this doesn’t surprise you in the least.

“Only a little.” Jungkook shows you how little with his pointer finger and thumb. “But uh, want me to show you?”

“I don’t even want to talk to you, you think I want to dance with you?” you raise a brow in amusement. You forget this boy has all the audacity.

“Dancing doesn’t have to have any talking.” Jungkook states with a sly smile.

“So you’re just going to show me the steps?”

“Precisely.”

You don’t know why, but this sounds better than actually speaking and/or just sitting in miserable silence. And maybe, just maybe you have a desire to be close to him.

“You think I could learn in time before Jimin gets back?”

“With me as your teacher? Definitely.” He fucking smirks at you and you can’t help but feel that feeling in your stomach. Not necessarily a bad feeling but a fucking feeling.

Jungkook stands to his feet and extends his hand out to you for you to take.

“Here, stand up.”

Your eyes travel from his hands to his eyes and you blink lazily at him…wait, you’re really doing this? He stares down at you and he smiles softly and it creates a warmth in your chest that you’re trying so hard to ignore. You can’t.

Even so, you hesitantly begin to reach up to grab on to his hand, once your skin touches his you feel it. The burning. You should be used to it but right now, the fire is raging and the heat is almost too much. But you let him close his hand over yours as he helps you up.

You’re now standing in front of one another, in complete silence again. But this time it’s not awkward—no, it’s a different type of tension. Your hand lingers in his, neither of you brave enough to let go of the other. Jungkook looks down at you and you up at him, and you feel a million things. But the number one thing you feel is pain. You slowly pull your hand back and break eye contact with him, your head dropping low.

“Show me already.” You whisper.

“Shh, no talking.” Jungkook quietly demands. “Only speak with your body.” He puts some music on the speakers and smirks at you.

Jungkook steps closer to you and you stay grounded in your spot, you can feel the heat of his body begin to radiate and warm you. One of his hands find yours, he weaves his fingers through your own and puts one hand on your hip, he looks down at you to warn you this is how he will guide you.

“Just follow me.”

“You said no talking Mr.Jeon.” you say almost under your breath as you stare into his eyes. Jungkook rolls his head back with a smirk on his face, he looks at you and nods.

He puts his left foot forward and steps with his right foot in the same place at center, then puts his left foot back again. You try to copy his moves but even with such simple steps you step on his feet. He looks up at you disapprovingly. You only smile at him.

You two continue to try these steps until you finally manage to understand them even just a little bit. Jungkook brings your body closer to his as you two move your hips to the music while following the simple steps. His chest flush against your own, his heart beating so loudly you can feel it. Your heart isn’t any better. You start to finally get the hang of it, the music slowly taking you to another place. Jungkook moves his hips to the beat so flawlessly and honestly? You’re doing pretty fucking good if you do say so yourself.

Jungkook’s grip on your hip tightens as he grinds himself closer to you, you feel lightheaded as you two dance to the song. Your breathing getting just a little heavier and you feel lost and pathetic but you’re too immersed in the dance to care. Jungkook finds his head falling into the crook of your neck, his hot breaths fanning against your sensitive skin and you find your hand skimming up his back until you have a handful of his hair. You lightly tug on his locks and Jungkook quietly groans. You don’t know if you’re even doing the right steps anymore, your feet moving all around the place, but somehow it’s working. You’re still following his lead and you’re sure the dance looks somewhat okay. All you care about is how both of your hips move to the beat of the music and into each other. You two are so in sync its driving you nuts.

Jungkook lifts his head and watches as you close your eyes and he closes his own eyes, his head falling forward, your foreheads close to touching. You feel so dizzy, so light and airy, so fucking great like you’re floating. You can’t help but feel the heat creep up your entire body, you feel sweat start to build as you two move. You tighten your hands around Jungkook’s neck and pull him down impossibly close, until his forehead is touching yours. Your harsh breaths mingling with his. You get dragged into the memory of when he had you pinned to his dorms mattress, you recall how his lips left kisses all along your throat, his hot breath reminding you of the past. You think of how he rolled his hips into you effortlessly then as well, you think of how you scraped your nails down his back as he thrusted into you. God, you need to think of something else but Jungkook is filling your mind.

Jungkook’s breathing picks up again, as does yours. Your memories making this dance that much more sensual. You remember the way Jungkook nibbled on your ear as he let filthy words spill from his mouth when he fucked you. God, you should not be thinking this but his body feels so good. God, you should think of anything…literally anything else. You remember how he held you close much like how he is right now. You two continue dancing to the song that is soon coming to an end. You know exactly how it feels to have Jungkook inside you, moving and stilling. You know exactly what it feels like to come all around his cock. God, you need to stop. You need to slow your breathing. God, you…you…you...he continues to guide you along to the music when you feel something hard poke against you. Oh. Oh. OH. Hard. He’s hard.

Immediately, you pull back and take several clumsy steps backward. You blink at him with wide eyes when you realize that maybe he was recalling the same memories as you. Your wide eyes concerning Jungkook.

“Okay, that’s enough lessons for today.” Your harsh breaths don’t go unnoticed by Jungkook, his own breathing quite unsteady.

“Right.” Jungkook mumbles.

You two stand around for a few moments, just taking in the experience you just shared.

You still feel…how do you feel? You just shared a hot dance with your best friend? Wait—ex best friend? You don’t know. The memory of his body moving with yours, his skin touching your skin, his breaths on your neck, his hair balled up in your hands. God, it felt so good.

But so wrong.

“Umm…thanks.” You finally say.

Jungkook perks up at the gratitude, even if it’s somewhat forced. His frown turns into a small smile and you can’t help but smile back.

“I miss you y/n.” Jungkook instantly regrets it by the look on your face. Your expression turning hard. “Sorry I—”

“No, I miss you too.” You answer honestly. “But this doesn’t change anything.”

“But why not? Do you really not want me in your life for like, ever?”

Jungkook’s questions settle deep within you. The depth they hold…it’s too much. You wonder? Is this anti-Jungkook thing permanent? Or are you just trying to teach him a lesson?

Jungkook rubs his temples as he thinks, he sighs out instead of talking more.

“Not forever.” You finally say. Jungkook looks at you, a sliver of hope flashes across his face.

“But when?” he asks softly.

Yeah y/n. When? You know you both can’t go back to how things use to be but maybe starting over? God, you don’t know what to do! You know someone like Trina will be disappointed you became friends with Jungkook again so quickly, but you know someone like Jimin would be happy his two friends are back to being on okay terms. Why are you trying to please everybody? What do you want?

“Will you ever give up?” you say a little more lightly.

“No…” he says under his breath, his eyes focusing on the TV. “Not until you agree to be my friend again.”

You look at Jungkook with disbelief written all over your face, this boy has the fucking audacity once again. You’re amused though.

“Excuse me?” you say, cleaning your ear out with your point finger. “I didn’t catch that.”

Jungkook looks into your eyes, his eyes are large and doe like and it brings you back to every moment ever that he has given you this look.

“You’re stuck with me until you love me again.” He says more firmly.

“Who said,” you look at him with soft eyes, “That I ever stopped loving you?”

Jungkook smiles, he fucking smiles. His adorable bunny smile that makes your heart race.

“You still love me?”

“Only a little.” You jut your lip out, “I mostly hate you.”

Jungkook only frowns for a second before he is smiling again, “That’s fair.”

The two of you stand in comfortable silence for a few minutes, you sway back and forth wondering what you want to say to him—you miss him, of course but…

“Let’s take it slow.” You finally break the silence. You miss him more than anything and it might be worth it to have him in your life again, “You aren’t going to be a priority in my life anymore.” You crack you knuckles, the sound filling up the room.

“I know,” Jungkook feels his heart twist at your words but at least it’s something. “We can go however slow you want y/n.”

“You are on—”

“Thin fucking ice, buddy. I know.”

You exhale a shaky breath, thinking about how to go about this, “We can text every now and then, I’m not sure I want to hang out with you quite yet.”

“Okay.”

“Maybe a group hang out first…”

“I’d like that.”

Jungkook reaches over to grab your hand but you pull back, “That’s a no from me for the affection.”

Hurt flashes across Jungkook’s features but he softens up as he nods his head. “Noted.”

You wonder if you’re making the right decision. This wasn’t easy, you know? This actually felt quite hard. But somehow you feel like some weight has been lifted off your shoulders, like things maybe just maybe will be okay.

“I won’t push myself on you, I promise.” Jungkook sits back down on the floor, crossing his legs.

“Just be yourself, Jungkook.”

“If I wanted to be myself I would be hugging you right now but that’s apparently off limits.” He jokes.

“One hug.” You open your arms timidly. You feel one hug can’t be too bad?

Jungkook widens his eyes in pleasant surprise. He stands to his feet again and opens his own arms.

“C’mere.”

You watch in disbelief as he grins with his arms wide open, expecting you to go to him! And you do. You fucking do.

His arms wrap around you, he pushes you into his chest and you feel so fucking good. So warm, so cozy. His scent making you feel dizzy again, his warmth causing you to heat up. You lean back and look at his content face, he honestly looks so fucking content. Like, this hug is everything to him. And maybe it is, but you don’t know that.

“Uh, am I interrupting something?” you both snap your heads toward the front door to see Jimin standing there with a package in his hands.

“I can come back later?” he smirks at you two.

“No no no no!” you drop your arms from hugging Jungkook and take a few steps back, “We were just—”

“We made up, Jimin.” Jungkook says calmly with the softest smile you’ve ever seen on him.

“We’re taking it slow!” you rush to say.

“Oh?” Jimin winks, he walks forward until he’s in the living room joining you two. “Does this mean you will be joining us this Thursday at Jungkook and Nick’s place?”

“Huh?”

Jungkook shifts on his feet, “Yeah, uh, me and Nick are having a small get together on Thursday…you can bring whoever you want…but you’re definitely invited.”

“Before I answer that…Jimin how did you not know about Nick and him being Jungkook’s roommate?”

“Listen! Jungkook is always HERE! I never go over there! The few times I was there Nick was never home okay?!” Jimin whines obnoxiously.

“Okay, whatever. And Jungkook, I said—”

“You said group hang outs.” Jungkook pouts.

Oh. You did say that. But this soon? And is she going to be there?

You chew on your lips before answering, “Okay. But I’m bringing Trina and Holly.”

“Oh bro, Trina is not your biggest fan.” Jimin cuts in.

“Yeah, I know how she is I already anticipated that.” Jungkook shrugs, he looks at you with a small smile.

Okay, starting over? Taking it slow? Can you and Jungkook do this? You look between the boys and smile,

“Okay. See you boys on Thursday.”

[katsubiatch]

Distant Shores-1

Summary: The heathens came to raid every year, stealing treasures and killing along the way. Your father was the King of Wessex and wanted to strike a deal with the heathens. The heathens and their ruthless numbers in exchange for some lands to farm, riches... and you. You are the Christian princess that is now to marry the Heathen King, a man that you're sure would rather kill you than marry you. This is going to be a miserable marriage.

A Viking!BakugouxReader fic.

Warnings: Arrange Marriage, general viking things, abusive father

They came every year, rowing to shore in their long boats with the intricately decorated dragon or serpent heads, shields of all colors decorating the sides. They would set up camp near the edges of the water, far enough to stay dry but not so far that they couldn't leave in a haste if need be. Violent in their tendencies and lacking the most simple of manners. Vulgar in their speech but carefree and happy. Men and women fighting side by side. They were tall, muscular, built like the gods they worshiped. Some with long hair that was braided back from their face, others with the sides shorn short and what was left was braided. Almost all had some sort of facial hair, minus the young ones desperately trying to grow it in, and if that was long enough it would be braided as well. Their clothing was not all together different from what you were used to. Perhaps not as ostentatious or gaudy as a he clothing around court. It was practical and useful, rather than just for show. Your father, the King of Wessex, was intrigued by these heathens as he called them. They had came ashore last year, destroying a few temples and killing all the holy men and women inside of them while stealing all the treasure inside, before taking their leave back to their homelands. It was interesting to say the least, though they had heard of these northmen before this was only the second time they had made camp on their shores. So In an effort of good faith your father decided to invite them to the castle, to talk he said. He wanted to strike a deal with them. He was going to offer a few things he thought they could not refuse. So he sent out a messenger to bring back their leaders for a feast. They spoke in a different tongue, looking at the women of court with lustful eyes as they ate. One man, who seemed to be their leader spoke up as he looked at the King. "What is it you have to offer me?" He spoke your language but it was choppy with the words out of place. You were surprised to find he knew the words at all. His hair was short on the sides, the rest braided back until it ended in a short pony tail. He had red eyes that you felt could pierce through anything or anyone. Scars littered his arms and bare chest, an axe and a sword at his hips. "Well, I am willing to offer some lands for you to do as you wish. Farm, build settlements. They are yours to do as you wish. I am also willing to offer you something more." The man said, grinning at the Viking earl. "I am offering my pure daughter, Y/N, to you." You. You were an offering. You always knew that your marriage would be arranged but you didn't think like this. To someone who had different customs, a different language, a different land someone who was different in almost every way possible. You wanted to throw up

The last thing that you thought your father was going to offer up was you. After all you were his only daughter and you figured that you would be married off to someone, a prince or lord in order for you father to gain some lands or troops for wars. Though you supposed this was kind of the same thing. The last thing that you expected was to be offered up to the Heathen King. You could feel his gaze on you, calculating red eyes watching your every move. You kept your eyes downcast, a habit from living in the castle for so long. You tried your hardest to hide the look of shock on your face, train it into a neutral expression.

"Well aren't you lucky, you get the Christian princess." One of the men next to the Heathen king spoke to him, in their language. One that you didn't understand.

"I have no need for a wife... but I could make it work. His proposition is interesting. I feel like he is going to double cross us."

The viking seemed to contemplate for a minute, hand rubbing over his chin as he looked you up and down before looking back at his men. "I will accept your offer, but I am surprised you would give up your virgin daughter to such a... heathen like myself." You could feel your face heat up at that, like they were talking about you without you even being there, despite the fact that you could feel the Vikings eyes on you the entire time.

"Well you are the man I need to make an alliance with right now." Your father stated, leaning back in his chair. "She will make a fine wife, I'm sure she can adjust to your ways." It became quite obvious to Bakugou that the king did not care about his daughter and what happened to her. He knew of the rumors that were spread about them. How they raped women and killed them when they no longer 'served their purpose.' He could tell you were scared but it seemed as though your father did not care.

"Then she will leave with us in the morning, we will be married under our Gods." Bakugou grunted, taking a long drink out of his cup, eyes never leaving your shaking frame. There was not much more that you could take, you didn't want to marry yet let alone a barbarian that you didn't even know. Someone who hardly spoke your language, who had different customs and Gods than you.

You excused yourself and made your way out of the hall, running as soon as you were out of sight. You couldn't slow your breaths, they were coming much too fast. You felt as though you were hyperventilating and needed to calm down. Maybe it wouldn't be so bad, maybe it would be okay. Once you made it to your room you had calmed down just a bit. You still did not want to marry this man. He looked cruel and would surely just have his way with you.

You sighed as you sat at your vanity, taking out the clips and pins that held your hair up in its complicated look. You supposed now you'd have to have it in the braids you saw on all the Viking women. You moved it back away from your face when you heard a knock on the door that caused your heart to race. You knew it was your father, sent to give you instructions that you didn't want to follow.

"Well, you embarrassed me out there. Running away like that, it's almost like you don't want to marry that brute." Your father hadn't waited for an answer to come in. "You have to make him happy, the last thing I want is them storming our shores because you're too stupid to please this man."

"Father I don't want to marry him. I do not know him and... and what if he kills me? You could marry me off to a prince from a neighboring land and they could offer your army to help if the viki,.." you started to say before you were struck against the cheek. The king of Wessex didn't like being told what to do, especially not by a woman.

"You will listen to what I have to say child, you will do as you are told, no questions. You will marry that brute and you will like it. Keep him pleased bed remind him of our treaty or I can send someone to remind you of your place." Your father threatened, pointing a finger in your face while you held your cheek and tears sprang out of your eyes. You had thought perhaps he had some shred of love left for you, however he just saw you as a bargaining chip.

That night you did not sleep well, tossing and turning. Dreaming about a pair of bright red eyes.

The next morning your maids had dressed your for the last time, putting you in a simple dress and cloak that wasn't too showy but was still made of fine fabrics that showed your status. A bruise had formed on your cheek from your fathers ring but that was something he didn't try to hide anymore. His daughter had a wild tongue according to him, and he needed to correct it. This wasn't the first time that he had struck you, but you were hopeful it would be the last. Unless of course your new husband was the same.

You were told you didn't need to pack anything, your husband to be would provide everything that you'd need. Least that is what they told your father. So down you went to where they were waiting, restless horses under even more restless men. They'd been giving plenty of gold and treasures to get them through the winter so they were eager to get back home. "Here she is, your future wife." The King said, presenting you to the Viking leader. You dared to look up at him, seeing the same eyes that had plagued your dreams. You watched his eyes flick around your face, lingering on your cheek before landing on your eyes. You soon looked away, not wanting to cause any new problems. It was the way you were raised, never look a man too long in the eyes. It was disrespectful. "She has some problems obeying but I am sure you can get her in line." The king winked befor pushing your towards the horse that Bakugou was on. He looked down at you before hoisting you on top of the beast to sit in front of him. Your face turned a bright pink, you'd never been this close to a man before, and his bare chest was burning into your back. You supposed that you'd have to get used to this if you were to be married soon.

Your father and future husband shared a few words with each other that you didn't pay attention to before you were off. The entire ride the few Vikings that had come along we're all talking in their own language, nothing that you understood but they seemed to be in good spirits, laughing and joking. You were lost in your own world, gently running your fingers over the horses mane before you heard the man behind you speak up. "What happened to your face?"

You weren't expecting it after how quiet he'd been for the entire ride so you jumped at the sudden noise behind you. You chewed on your cheek, deciding on an answer before landing on, "My father was correcting me. That is all." You weren't sure of the correct answer but that apparently wasn't it as you heard a grunt behind you and a small growl.

Before long you made it back to the Viking camp, which was mostly torn down at this point, bustling with activity. The boats were being packed, tents torn down and supplies being put up. You were in awe at how fast they worked, and were intrigued with the people and what they were doing. It was almost like a culture shock, you were used to the castle and this was something different. The man that was to be your husband helped you off your horse and gave you a warning to stay close. In the matter of an hour everything was packed up, you staying close to the man was he went around inspecting work and checking things before he lifted you onto a boat and climbed on himself.

The boat itself was amazing, all the little attentions to detail was beautiful, your fingers traced over the edge and the little designs there. You were again in awe, you could deal with this. If you could see little things of beauty like this then you could take it. Once set off to the sea your eyes were wide with wonder. You hadn't ever been this far before, you hadn't even been out on the water and it was breath taking. You couldn't get enough. That is... until you were sprayed in the face with the water. You coughed and shook your head, as the men on the boat laughed. You didn't complain however, you were still just in awe of the sights. What you didn't notice was a curious pair of eyes watching you from the other end of the boat, never leaving you as he watched you drink in everything. He was curious about you, that was for sure.

After getting hit with the ocean water you learned your lesson about staying too close to the edge. However as night time drew closer and the sun went below the horizon it was freezing and your cloak wasn't cutting it. However you didn't complain, instead just hugged it closer to yourself.

"It looks like your princess is going to freeze to death." One of the rowing men commented, looking over to Bakugou. "Might want to warm her up."

Bakugou heard this and in turn stood up with a grunt before walking over to you and unceremoniously dropped on of his furs onto your shoulders. You looked curiously up at him, but melted into the warmth it gave. "Thank you." You chattered out, cuddling close to the furs.

"Can't let you freeze, princess." Bakugou murmured as shuffled back over to where he came from. You watched him go and smiled softly, perhaps he wasn't so bad after all.

[astaroth1357]

The Demon Brothers (Minus Asmo) at Their Worst  Pt. 1 (Lucifer, Mammon, Levi)

To the anons who gave me this idea, here it is. Unfortunately, I can’t say I’m all that happy to bring it to you, cause yikes this hurt to write. I’m grateful, however, because I believe I’m better for it. You shouldn’t always stay in your comfort zone. I left out Asmodeus for personal reasons. Regardless of my ability, given the nature of this challenge, I don’t feel comfortable with writing nor posting graphic content of sexual violence and chose to refrain from doing so. Please do not ask for this to be written at a later date, I will politely refuse then as I am now.

Check out the Masterlist for more.

Warnings: THEIR SINS HAVE BEEN TAKEN TO AN EXTREME (AND ALL THAT IMPLIES), Abusive/Controlling Relationships, Violence, Threat of Human Trafficking, Drowning, Angst, Regret, Suicidal Thoughts

This is all for the purposes of fantasy and in no way an endorsement for these behaviors in real life. Be nice (and smart) with your lives, my friends.

Intro: Maybe the MC should have known better. It should have sunk in a long time ago that they were in incredibly risky territory... They should have remembered that these men, though they call them friends, family, and perhaps even lovers, are still demons at their heart and core. Each of them are the embodiment of some of the worst behaviors man has to offer... MC, there are some people you just shouldn’t date, even if they love you, and now you suffer the consequences...

Lucifer

It’s not difficult to see how Pride can go awry. Self-confidence and dignity are wonderful things, but let them build up unchecked and all manner of petty, vindictive behavior can surface from within a person... 

Lucifer is far from immune to these flare ups. In fact, he falls victim to them so often that they may as well be ingrained in his personality. If you do anything that mocks or belittles him, even if it’s small, you’ll get a reaction. One that’s usually more severe than offense calls for...

The MC knew this going into a relationship with him. Supposedly, they knew all the no-go zones, too. Don’t make fun of him or Diavolo, don’t mention the Fall or his back, don’t call him a nag... That sort of thing.

What they hadn’t expected was the full brunt of the expectations suddenly leveled on them.

To say Lucifer was demanding would be an understatement. Everything about him had to be poised, powerful, collected, and perfect. Whether he realized it or not, these expectations bled into their relationship as well.

It started with him nitpicking little details... The way they stood, how they styled their hair, maybe a comment or two on what they ate. But it progressively got worse...

Suddenly he found problems with the way they dressed, what they listened to, what shows they watched, even how they greeted him in the mornings!

Before too long, nothing was right to him… Nothing was good enough. They were his other half, his biggest vulnerability, and in order for him to feel secure about that they had to be perfect… However Lucifer defined it.

They listened to him at first. Though his comments stung, he could be so loving too… He truly made them feel special. Like he wouldn’t be trying so hard if it were anyone but them...

But pretty words and kind actions could only go so far. They couldn’t completely erase the vitriol being tossed at them day after day… 

Slowly, with every little change, they could feel themselves start to dwindle… The choices they made felt foreign, the lifestyle they held became draining, and then one day they realized they didn’t even look right anymore… They were no longer the person they wanted to be. 

Lucifer was doing what he set out to do: train them, break them, then mold them into something new... So they could be perfect...

Just like him.

One day, however, they just couldn’t take being the person he wanted anymore...

He found them in their bedroom just before a party that Diavolo had been planning for weeks. Their hair wasn’t fixed and their clothes were a mess. His frustration nearly skyrocketed until he saw their face, vacant and broken, staring blankly straight ahead…

He couldn’t rouse them. They wouldn’t move no matter how much he shouted, threatened, or swore...

….they didn’t even budge when he begged…

His brothers eventually noticed something amiss and took them away. Their disgust with him was fairly evident… They probably would have tried something had he not been the strongest.

He had taken something wonderful and squashed it... Hurt someone he truly loved and ruined what they could have had to protect his damn ego…

Lilith, his brothers, and Satan especially… was everyone he tried to care for just bound to end up broken too…?

The MC’s recovery was slow. They had a lot of damage to repair and a whole new identity to build. He stayed out of it as much as he could, burying himself in work and seeing his brothers less and less...

He’d done enough damage to them anyway...

Mammon

The Greedy, Scummy Second-Born… Words to etch on his tombstone. Mammon had heard it all before from all angles: the demons above him, below him, hell even a passersby on the street would know his face and his laundry list of a rap sheet...

The one person who seemed to look past all that was MC.

He truly didn’t know what sort of karma he’d gained or luck he scored to have them in his life. They didn’t just see him at his best side, they made him want to fix his worst...

But that’s easier said than done, isn’t it?

The sad truth is Mammon is a gambler at heart. Oh he loves the money, the riches, fine things, and the bling but what else does he enjoy? The rush.

There’s nothing like that feeling of triumphant when the dice falls your way or the pure exhilaration of a close bet. When all cards are on the table and everything’s stacked against you, eking out that win can cause a head-rush better than any orgasm he’s ever had... The higher the stakes? The better the high.

But maybe he went a little too far…

It’s one thing to bet Grimm, he can make more of that in a night. It’s another to bet items, harder to replace but not impossible. People…? Well. If you want high stakes…

MC was actually with him that night when he made the “great” decision to bet his most valuable treasure on poker match. He was running out of Grimm and thought that the added risk would make him play better…

He thought wrong.

MC hadn’t been at the table at the time he made the deal, but they had come back just in time to see him get his ass handed to him. He lost. Spectacularly.

When the other demons there came over to encircle MC, it already felt like his world was crumbling down around him... The look of confusion, then hurt and betrayal in their eyes forever seared themselves into his memory.

“You bet me in a poker game?!”

It sounds almost comical, but he knew what the demons were planning to do to them wasn't. And just seeing the way his human’s wrist snapped when one of the men wrenched their arm from them confirmed it.

He wouldn’t let them get away with that. When the threats escalated to violence, he took his share of punches but in the end he was left standing.

The MC was furious. He had just whittled their entire existence down to a bargaining chip and one that he tossed away carelessly…

Yeah, he’s truly a scumbag, isn’t he?

They didn’t talk to him for quite a while, despite him begging for forgiveness. There was always a part of him that wondered why he even bothered… He had done it before, and in another gambling-induced high he would probably do it again…

They’d honestly be better off without him...

Leviathan

It’s, frankly, quite difficult to be the Avatar of Envy. Every day Levi feels uncomfortable in his own skin… Like he doesn’t measure up to this or that or like he’s not worthy of being in the meager position afforded to him. He preferred to hide himself away and try not to dwell on it… but then MC came along…

For once, he felt like he had something. Something truly special. Something one of a kind and like no other… He couldn’t point to any of his brothers and say that they had something better, hell, he couldn’t even point to Diavolo and say that he had a finer version.

No. He had them. The one, the only, MC. Better than all the rest. His only great accomplishment in his miserable, pathetic life...

… so why did they keep leaving him…?

It didn’t hurt that badly at first when they’d tell him they couldn’t go watch some new anime with him because they had other plans. Sometimes they’d go off shopping with Mammon or have lunch with Beel… That was fine. Understandable.

At least that’s what he’d tell himself.

After a while though, he started to feel lonely… rejected… Was he not good enough for them? Surely that had to be it, right?? A miserable shut-in otaku with someone like them? What a joke!

Any time he’d voice his insecurities, they’d always say the same things: “No, don’t be silly!” “I really do want to be with you.” “I love you, Levi. Don’t you believe me?”

No. He didn’t. With each passing hour spent away from him, time where he would get shafted for one of his brothers instead, he believed them less and less…

Soon all he heard was lies…

Something possessed him that day. MC had just missed their third live stream in a row in order to be with his brothers instead. Which one was it? It didn’t really matter. He felt the stinging pain of isolation all the same…

When the MC walked into his room they had no way of knowing that the festering hatred and inadequacy that had been stewing in him for months was about to spill over. His anger was so quick to spark and their human body too weak to resist...

It was only once he realized how long he had their head forced under the water of his aquarium that he finally let them up for air.

He was stepping over himself to apologize, stammering incoherently through his tears how he just lost control and didn’t know what came over him!

His brothers weren’t forgiving. Not in the slightest. Each of them seemed to want to beat him within an inch of his life and he didn’t blame them… If he could get away with it, he’d march himself into the sea and let it serve as his rightful prison…

His punishments were severe, but not unending, and soon he was back in his room again. Now he never leaves it and the MC is never allowed back in, even if they want to be.

He now, truly, doesn’t deserve them at all...

Link to Part Two: Satan, Beel, Belphie

[cunning-and-cool]

for the fic title ask: Like Droplets In The Universe

hmmm, part of me wants to say time-loop but that might just be because i've had that au on the mind, but still picking up something about learning to live with yourself,,,,,,oh wait okay!

We're gonna go with DC, because that's all I've been writing recently!

The Plot (kinda?)

Time travel fic! Staring a 25 year old, Batman Damian Wayne that is actively spiraling downwards. He became Batman at age 20, due to the pile of circumstances life threw his way!

Bruce is dead, Dick is dead, Alfred is dead, Jason lives in a different state, Cass lives in Hong Kong, and Tim outright refuses to be Batman due to pretty much everything about himself. And literally all of them (minus Tim) would have taken on the mantel for a few years, but Damian wouldn't allow it due to his own issues.

Anyway! One night Damian goes on patrol, investigating weird energy readings that he's pretty sure are magic. It is magic, and the sorcerer is pissed off when Damian starts throwing punches. The sorcerer throws a spell, knocking Damian out cold for a little bit.

He wakes up and feels terrible and desperately wanting to slam his head against a wall. Oh! And it turns out his motorcycle isn't where he left it! And his comm. isn't working! And he definitely broke a bone! Damian is all around not having a good time, but he starts grappling through the city because he has no idea what spell he was hit with.

It becomes a little more apparent when he finally makes his way to the Batcave...and is faced with Bruce Wayne glaring at the Batcomputer, with Dick Grayson and Tim Drake sparring to the left. All of this is very obviously staged.

(Jason was on patrol and had no interest in joining, Past!Damian has been staying with the Teen Titans due to an ongoing mission. Look, it's summer vacation, okay?)

Fun Fact! The first thing you've heard your father say to you in seven years being, "Who the hell are you," isn't great for your mental health.

Thus starts the actual plot of Damian trying to get home while also suffering (because he misses his family) and yearning (because he misses his family) and trying to hide how awful everything is for him (because he misses his family).

Sub/Secondary Plots:

- Damian struggles with addiction throughout, and also struggles with hiding it because he's not used to having people around him who would notice. Of course he doesn't admit that he has a problem to himself, so he ignores it. This comes back to bite him when he starts getting withdrawals. Hurt/Comfort with him spilling everything that actually happens in future without realizing it, simply due to he fact that he thinks he's dreaming Bruce comforting him.

- Damian and Bruce's last conversation was an argument, Damian ended it by saying "At least be honest! You never actually wanted me!" and storming off. Seven hours later Bruce was dead, Damian doesn't cope with this.

- Bruce and Dick die eleven months apart from each other. Dick was Batman for ten months before his own death. This is actually why Damian wouldn't let anyone else be Batman. He watched Dick pretty much run himself into the ground and he didn't want another sibling to do so.

- Damian desperately tries to not out his past self as gay and fails miserably. Everybody wonders if they should put him out of his misery and tell them that they know, and it's very obvious.

Fic Opens With The Line:

Damian Wayne was pretty sure he died. Like, ninety percent sure. And if he isn't then he sort of wants to be.

[imaginesbymk]

“Melting.”

Stranger Things One Shot

Summary: Robin thinks you’re crushing on your best friend Steve, but little did she know...

Pairing: Robin Buckley x Reader

Requester: @fangirlsarah16 “Congrats on 1k lovely!!! 😄💗🎉 that’s so freaking amazing and you deserve it! For your 1k celebration, could I please request a one shot with Robin Buckley where the reader is best friends with Steve and Robin has a crush on the reader but thinks they are into Steve so Robin is upset by it and when they hang out, Robin accidentally confesses and the reader kisses her to proves they like her? Thanks love! 💖”

Tags: swearing

Word Count: 1,241

Author’s Note: sooooo sorry for the huge delay, sarah!! but enjoy!!! song inspiration is melting by kali uchis <333 pls leave a like/reblog + feedback :))

STEVE slumped his way to the front counter to serve a new customer. “Welcome to Scoops, what can I get you?”

You watched him from the window, Robin was watching you watching him - a chain, really. It came to her and she wished to look away. The first time Robin saw you as Steve’s best friend (who is technically her best friend from now on - she doesn’t make the rules), she naturally assumed the obvious: you have a crush on your best friend, the one that’s friends with children. 

Now that you’ve been staring at Steve for nearly a minute, that sort of proved her point.

You turned your head around and noticed she was staring at you. “What?”

“Huh, what? Nothing, it’s just uh-” she stammered. “It’s freakin’ hot in here, I’m melting.”

The fact that you were always able to walk in the back and chill at one of the tables with Robin and Steve was beyond either of you three, but neither of you cared - but there wouldn’t be a reason for it to be hot inside an ice cream shop.

“Um, we’re literally right beside the freezer, it’s like minus a thousand degrees.” You popped a piece of gum in your mouth. “Dunno, it could be that cheap uniform your boss made you wear,” you teased.

“Robin, the cash register is broken!” Steve hollers from the other side. That queued Robin to not sit on the job, and she quickly left the back room.

She had this sibling kind of friendship with Steve, and she most certainly couldn’t hate him for being the person you’re crushing on, it wasn’t his fault, the poor kid.

The gentleman who ordered a five dollar vanilla cone stood there as Robin began slamming the side of the register (as if that was gonna get it to work and not break it even more), the thought of an outrage from their boss due to the cost of repair or even buying a new one was out of her mind.

Steve offers the customer a smile.

The door swung open like a saloon, and out you came to see the commotion. You smiled at Robin after noticing what she was doing. Robin’s heart melts like an ice cream faster than the ice cream she serves to customers at Scoops Ahoy whenever you smile at her. For someone who’s miserable and sarcastic eighty-percent of the time, she developed a soft side she never knew she even had. The problem was, she wished you knew that.

After multiple slams, the register let out a sound and the tray pulled out, sending coins flying to the ground.

“Nice. Our boss is gonna pop a vein when he sees this,” Steve says, bending down to the pick up the coins off the floor. You and Robin helped. 

Steve starts with one side, you and Robin collected the dimes and pennies. One last dime was spotted, so you reached your hand over to grab it... as did Robin. Her hand was greeted with yours, barely even touching the coin. The both of you shot looks at each other, blushing like hell. Robin’s melting heart solidified back to normal just for it to hammer.

“Ahem,” Steve cleared his throat, breaking the silence. “You two wanna fight over the dime?”

The two of you quickly got up and smiled at the customer who just wanted their cone.

“Y/N?” It was hard to resist going on those coin slot horse rides in the middle of the mall, especially when the mall was closed and it was the three of you, plus Dustin and some old sanitation worker cleaning the ground floors, you wasted no time goofing around.

“Yeah?”

“While you were getting hot dogs, my boss threw a fit earlier."

“Oh, crap.” You swung your leg off the horse and hopped off. “Did you tell him you slammed the cash register like dough? That seemed to get it work.”

“That wasn’t what he was pissed at me for,” Robin shook her head.

“Then what is it?”

“He noticed you’ve been entering the back room. You’re not an employee.”

You nodded. “I know I’m not allowed to do that, no one’s allowed unless they’re wearing that stupid sailor’s uniform.”

“Y/N, I got blamed for that but Steve always leaves the door unlocked from the back hallways because he knows you come from there. If the boss sees you there one more time, we’re done. I’ll get fired.”

“So will Steve, he’ll be in hot water, for sure. He’s the one who keeps the door-”

“Forget about Steve, dude!” She snaps.

You chuckle. “Okay! What’s your deal, Robin?”

“Y/N...” Robin sighs, walking towards you. “If you like Steve so much that you’re willing to go inside Scoops and risk his job just to be with him, and then I’m the one taking the blame for it, then that’s kinda shitty.”

“What?” you said. “Whoa, whoa, whoa! You think I like Steve?”

“Hey, don’t drag me into this!” Steve calls from the front of the shop, locking the gates with the keys.

“Shut up Steve!” you both yell.

You both turn to each other. “Hold on, you don’t like Steve?” Robin asks, hoping to confirm it to be a no from you.

“Why would I ever like Steve that way? He’s a friend,” you say.

“Because I see the way you look at him and you laugh the hardest when he falls down like an idiot, it seemed very obvious,” Robin explained.

“Why would you even care about that?”

“Because I like you!” Robin’s voice echoed in the empty shopping mall. Steve stops jiggling the keys inside the locked gates, eyes bulging wide at Robin. Perhaps all three of you had turned red, and froze all together like mannequins on display.

Dustin walks in from the back hallways, managing to sneak out a bowl of dessert, unpaid. “Who wants to take the first bite - too bad it’s me!” he ignores the awkward silence unbeknownst the argument and Robin’s confession.

“Wait, you... like me?” you said softly. Dustin stares at the two teenagers, slowly savoring the taste of the treat as if he was watching a movie in the theater. “Why didn’t you say something?”

“Do you know how hard it is to confess something like that to someone?” Robin’s voice cracks. “Especially when you’re convinced that the person you like - likes someone else.”

“Robin, did all of that ice cream make your brain freeze for good? I don’t like Steve,” you shook your head. “I like you. It’s been you this whole time.”

“Are you freaking kidding me right now?” Robin raised a brow. “You never showed it, I never took the slightest hint, like at all.”

Then why else would you convince Steve to unlock the back doors, and let Robin be the first person you see when you enter, just to brighten her dull day on the job? All that for her. You wished there were better ways, and you wished and wished nothing but the best for her than making money serving ice cream at Starcourt. 

You rushed towards her, your cold hands from the free ice cream pressing on her shoulders. You leaned in, and did the thing that Robin had been wanting to do since the very beginning. 

Steve began to cover Dustin’s eyes. 

“How's that for a hint?” you smile at her after pulling away.

_

taglist: @fangirlsarah16 @moonlit-imagines @captainshazamerica @always-imagine-a-dream @randomfandomimagine @locke-writes