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kwanisms · 1 year

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Kinkuary 01 Yunho — Size kink // praise

➥ big d!ck bf!Yunho × tiny girlfriend!Reader summary: Yunho is big and strong and likes to play rough and manhandle his tiny girlfriend. wc: 4.2k (whew! Half of that is smut 🥴) warnings: afab reader, adult dialogue, sexual content (minors dni!): oral (f receiving), fingering (she's gonna need it to take his monster c•ck), unprotected sex (use protection! Yunho and MC use the pull out method), praise (good girl, you're doing so well, etc), size kink (so reader is noticeably smaller than Yunho and he comments on it), Yunho cums on the readers stomach and licks it clean so cum eating ig, slight strength kink, some manhandling, reader loves Yunho's hands, monster c•ck Yunho, and I think that's all. pls let me know if I missed anything Permanent taglist: @yoonguurt @candidupped Kinkuary full taglist: @baldi-2 @wonderfulshinee @lacie220900 @sup-dallyboy Ateez taglist: @2hodefender @babyhailey819 @foxylilbitch MINORS WILL BE BLACKLISTED & BLOCKED. Join the taglist!

a/n: this is a bit self indulgent as I am tiny compared to yunho and I want him to manhandle me and use his size and strength against me. This is also for @yoonguurt and my fellow size kink enthusiasts. As always, this is a work of fiction and all characters are not reflective of their respective irl counterparts. for entertainment purposes only. banner made by me. I do not allow reposts or translations of my works. All my works are ©️ kwanisms.

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Your favorite thing about Yunho was how big he was compared to you. He was so tall, just over 6 feet tall, with broad shoulders and large hands. He easily towered over you.

Yunho's favorite thing about you was how tiny you were next to him. He loved it when you wore his shirts as they fit you like dresses, the hem coming down to the middle of your thighs. You looked so small and cute in his clothes.

Your second favorite thing about Yunho was that he was strong. Strong enough to lift you easily, throw you over his shoulder or just lift you onto the kitchen counter.

He also liked to throw you onto the bed. And you loved it when he did that.

Flipping through the channels of the TV proved fruitless as you found nothing decent or interesting to watch so you decided to put the TV on the channel where Music Bank was being broadcasted and settled into the cushions to eat your dinner and hopefully catch a glance of your massive boyfriend.

It didn't take long for ATEEZ to show up on stage, performing their newest title track. You watched Yunho as much as the cameramen allowed, smiling as he performed.

He was an incredible dancer, something you'd always admired about him. The way he moved and how easily the music seemed to flow through him was mesmerizing. You loved every second of it.

Of course, in watching him dance, the way his body moved always got your insides burning as your imagination tended to run wild.

You scarfed down the rest of your lasagna and watched the rest of their stage with rapt attention. Your eyes followed Yunho across the stage as the song continued. Although the camera would focus on the other members, you could only see your boyfriend.

It was during one part of the performance when the choreography had them hip thrust that your mind was made up. He'd unintentionally created this problem (the problem being in your panties) and when he came home, he'd fix it.

ATEEZ finished their performance to tumultuous applause and cheers which you unashamedly added to in the comfort of your own home. and the show slowly came to an end, you checked the time and hoped Yunho would be home soon.

Deciding to distract yourself, you chose to clean up, do the dishes, wipe down the counters, anything you could do to pass the time until your boyfriend came home.

You tried not to look at the time, hoping if you ignored it, time would move just a little faster.

You knew after music shows, the guys would head back to the KQ building, clean up, probably grab some food and relax for a while. Yunho was nothing if not consistent when it came to these little rituals and no more than three hours after the show ended, he sent you a text.

Puppy Hubby ♥️💕: hey angel. We just got done eating. Have you eaten? I'll bring you something if you haven't. I'm about to leave so I'll be there soon. I love you ♥️

You quickly finished what you were working on and ran to your shared bedroom to put your plan into action. You rushed around, throwing off your plain pajamas in favor of something more… alluring.

You pulled off your white cotton panties and searched through your drawer for a pair you knew Yunho would love and slid those on.

Snatching one of Yunho's tees, you pulled it on over your head and let it fall to your thighs before slipping on some of your favorite thigh highs and heading back out into the living room to wait for Yunho.

You sat on the couch, jumping at every sound, your heart pounding over the sound of the clock on the wall ticking each second as it slipped by.

Finally you heard the sound of beeping at the door and quickly scrambled, grabbing the remote and turning the TV on before Yunho had a chance to open the door. A commercial for fried chicken played on the screen as Yunho finally managed to open the door and stumble in. You glanced over and saw he was carrying a huge black duffel bag and a small black plastic bag.

He leaned against the door to shut it as he struggled to pull his trainers off before finally letting the duffel bag drop to the ground and untying his laces.

With one shoe off, he stood up, leaning his back against the wall, his eyes found yours and he immediately perked up, a smile spreading across his face.

"Baby!" he said as he tore off his other shoe, grabbed the duffel bag and hurried over to the couch, dropping the bag at the end of the sofa and sitting beside you, setting the plastic bag on the coffee table before he engulfed you in his warm embrace.

"I didn't think you were still up," he said breathlessly as he hugged you tightly, peering kisses all over your face, making you giggle. You smiled as he pulled back and quickly stood to unzip his coat and moved to put it away, tripping over the duffle bag.

You hid a laugh as he cursed and kicked the bag before returning to your side. His eyes fell onto what you were wearing and you could have sworn you saw his eyes darken momentarily before he plopped down next to you, resting his arm on the couch behind you.

"I wasn't sure if you'd eaten, so I brought you something," he said, gesturing to the plastic bag. You smiled, turning to look at him.

"You're always so thoughtful," you replied, getting to your feet and grabbing the bag. You took it to the kitchen, not aware of the way his eyes followed your figure or the way he licked his lips at the sight of you in nothing but his shirt and some thigh highs.

As you came back to the sofa, your eyes roamed his body as well. He was wearing a plain black tee and some gray sweatpants. If you didn't know your boyfriend better, you'd think he was trying to seduce you because he knew you loved it when he wore sweatpants. Especially the gray ones.

You moved to sit beside him but Yunho was faster, grabbing you by the waist and forcing you to sit on his lap instead of the cushion.

You let out a tiny surprised "oh" as you fell onto him but immediately melted against him as his arms wrapped around your waist and buried his face into your chest.

"You must be exhausted," you murmured, stroking his hair and smiling as he relaxed into your touch. "Mhm," he mumbled, the sound rumbled from his chest and you continued to stroke his hair, massaging his scalp as only you could do for him.

The stylists usually did this to promote hair growth but no one could do it the way you did. Yunho often asked you to massage his scalp after he had his hair dyed because he loved the way your fingers worked against his scalp. He loved the way your nails dragged against his skin and the slight tugs you gave him that almost had him groaning at the feeling.

It was no secret between the two of you Yunho loved to be rough and manhandle you but he liked it when you were rough back. He loved it when you pulled his hair and bit him as he fucked you senseless.

You could feel him start to grow hard under you as you massaged his scalp, tugging on his hair and raking your nails over his skin.

Yunho shifted you so you were straddling his lap, his face now pressed into your neck as you continued to massage him.

You tried to act innocent and like his hands sliding over your body wasn't affecting you but you'd be lying if you said you weren’t completely soaking your panties as his large hands grabbed your ass and slid down to caress your thighs.

You let out a sigh as you felt Yunho's mouth move against the skin of your throat, kissing, nipping, and licking. You tilted your head to the side, giving him more to explore as your hands continued to tug his hair. Yunho finally let out a groan, his hips bucking up into you and grinding his hard cock against your wet panties.

"Mm, fuck," you moaned, moving your own hips to chase his and grind down against him again.

You let out a gasp as Yunho’s hands grabbed your hips, guiding them to grind over his cock again. "You have no idea what you do to me, sweetheart, do you?" he asked, pushing you back slightly so he could look you in the eyes.

His own were dark, pupils blown and clouded with an animalistic desire to ruin you, his tiny girlfriend.

"I think I have some idea," you whispered, grinding down against him again and watching as his eyes fluttered shut, lips parting as a moan came out. His head fell back against the cushions as you continued to grind on him, the material of your panties sticking to you, pressing against your clit.

"Yunnie," you whimpered, sinking your teeth into your bottom lip as you chased your orgasm.

Yunho's hands stopped you, grabbing your waist and lifting you slightly. "Nuh-uh," he said, shaking his head. "Not like this."

Before you could answer, Yunho had stood, throwing you over his shoulder and started carrying you to your shared bedroom.

Once inside, he hastily deposited you on the bed and reached for his drawstring, fingers stilling as he looked down and then back up with a devilish smirk.

"You made quite the mess, baby," he said as he slowly untied the drawstring of his pants, watching you watch him through heavy lids.

"Spread your legs for me," he said, moving his hands to your knees and encouraging you to move.

You did so slowly, parting your thighs and showing him the absolutely soaked through cloth that adorned your aching core.

Yunho tutted, moving one hand down between your thighs and running his thumb over the wet fabric. "My sweet little angel is all wet," he said softly, switching to two fingers as he dragged them back up, sending a shiver up your spine.

"This can't be comfortable," he added, hooking a finger under the material and pulling it back slightly, exposing your wet slit to the cool air.

"Is it uncomfortable, baby?" he asked, his fingers barely brushing against your hole. You nodded silently, looking up at him with pleading eyes asking him to remove your panties.

"Then let's just get rid of them, yeah?" he asked, leaning over and towering over you as he stood beside where you lay on your back.

You nodded as his hands moved, starting at your knees and sliding up the tops of your thighs before moving them to the sides of your hips and hooking his fingers under the waistband of your panties.

He maintained eye contact as he slowly pulled the fabric down, pulling the wet crotch away from your heat and sliding them further down your thighs, still as slowly as possible and smearing your arousal down the inside of your thighs.

You had no idea exactly how wet you had gotten earlier but it was apparent now that you were drenched.

Once your panties had been removed and discarded, Yunho's hands were back on your knees, pushing your legs apart and pushing them back slightly to expose your core to him.

Your eyes watched as he tore his gaze from your face to look between your thighs and he bit his lip, holding back the urge to groan at the sight of your slick skin and tiny hole waiting to be filled.

"Goddamn, is this all for me, tiny girl?" he asked, glancing back up to meet your gaze. You nodded again. "Yes," you managed to squeak out. "It's all for you," you added.

Yunho's smirk returned as his hands slid up the inside of your thighs and stopped just before your sex. "Fuck, I can't wait to ruin this pretty little pussy," he muttered, drawing his bottom lip between his teeth. His words had your walls clenching around nothing, prompting you to wiggle your hips, begging for something.

"Please, Yunho," you whispered, looking up at him through your lashes. "Please touch me."

The sound Yunho let out sounded somewhere between a moan and a growl as he dropped to his knees beside the bed, pulling your hips to the edge of the mattress and started pressing slow, deliberate kisses along the inside of your thigh, moving closer and closer to your core only to pass over it and spread kisses along the inside of your other thigh.

You let out a whine, one hand moving to brush your boyfriend’s hair back before settling on his cheek, prompting him to look up at you from between your thighs.

The hungry look in his eyes had heat spreading throughout your body. You wanted nothing more than for him to dive in and abuse your clit with his tongue but you knew he was a man of patience and liked to take his time with you and that's exactly what he was going to do.

When he finally tore his gaze from your face, it was to press light, feathery kisses on either side of your sex before his tongue slipped between your lips, finding your clit and immediately swirling around it in slow, even circles.

His light touches from before paired with the teasing kisses to your thighs made your body sensitive to every lick and flick of his tongue against the sensitive nub, your thighs threatening to close on his head. Thankfully, Yunho was much stronger and kept your thighs in place while he continued toying and teasing your clit and slit.

Your fingers combed through Yunho’s hair as he looked up at you with a heavy lidded stare. His fingers toyed with your entrance before finally pushing one finger in slowly, making you hiss at the intrusion, legs spreading further for him. “That’s it baby,” he breathed. “Such a good girl for me.”

You mewled, words failing as his finger continued to pump in and out of you slowly, his tongue dragging over your clit again. “You gonna cum for me?” He asked softly, chuckling when you nodded with a whine.

“Fuck, angel, you’re doing so well,” he murmured, teasing your clit with the tip of his tongue before sucking on it. Your thighs shook, a small cry sounding from the back of your throat as he added a second finger, lightly scissoring them, preparing you to take his cock. He learned from past experience you needed a decent amount of prep before he could even get the head in.

The lewd sounds coming from between your thighs had your skin heating up, a blush blossoming over your cheeks with every squelch. “Yunhooo,” you whined, drawing out his name.

You heard him chuckled, his hot breath fanning over your wet core. “You’re so wet for me, little one,” he muttered, fingers pistoning into you at a much quicker pace. “I can’t wait to split you open.”

A shiver ran down your spine at his words, walls gripping his fingers tightly as you imagined it was his huge cock instead. Yunho cursed under his breath, watching the way his fingers disappeared inside you.

“Think you can take another one?” He asked, looking up past your rising and falling chest as you struggled to breathe evenly. Without letting you answer, he added a third finger, hissing as your soaking cunt sucked him in, his tongue back on your clit as he continued to finger fuck your hole.

“Shit, ‘m gonna cum” you moaned, back arching as you felt the tension build in your lower abdomen, like a rubber band being pulled back until it snapped and you came with a whine, muttering your boyfriend’s name as your hips moved, riding out your high as it washed over you.

Yunho removed his fingers, more than willing to let you use his tongue, flattening it as you rode out the waves of your orgasm until your body shuddered and he pulled away, chin and lips coated in your arousal.

You blinked up at him as he climbed onto the bed, hovering over your small frame, dipping down to kiss you, his tongue slipping into your mouth and allowing you to taste yourself.

“Come here,” he purred, wrapping an arm around your waist and pulling you up easily, scooting you further back on the bed. “As much as I love seeing you in my clothes, little one, let’s take this off, shall we?” He said softly, fingers skimming your hips as he grabbed the fabric of the shirt you’d stolen.

You said up, allowing him to slip it off and drop it off the bed onto the floor. He’d clean up later.

You laid back against the sheets now completely bare as Yunho kneeled between your thighs, his large hands holding your waist and pulling you against him, pressing his hard on against you. You pouted, looking up at your large boyfriend who merely smiled at your pout.

“What’s wrong, little one?” he cooed, peering down at you as his hands moved, sliding up your body until he cupped your chest, thumb brushing over your hardened nipples. “You’re still wearing clothes,” you murmured, hands reaching out to brush against his stomach over the plain tee he wore.

He chuckled softly, moving his hand to take yours, marveling at the sheer difference in size.

He ducked his head down, turning your hand over in his and pressing a kiss to your palm. “Do you want me to take this off?” He asked, grabbing the hem of his shirt with his other hand, his smile widening as you nodded.

“Oh, alright, baby,” he cooed and released your hand, grabbing the back of his collar and pulling his shirt off easily, discarding it on the floor.

Your eyes roamed his body from his broad shoulders down his chest to his tummy where you could see the start of a trail of hair leading down past the waistband of his sweats. Your eyes raised back up to meet his gaze, pulling your bottom lip between your teeth as a smirk formed on his lips.

“You like what you see?” He asked softly, leaning over, rolling his hips into yours, pressing his erection into your wet heat. You nodded, not trusting your voice to speak. “You wanna see more?” He whispered, lips ghosting over yours, chuckling when you moaned and nodded again.

He pulled back, settling back on his heels as he kneeled between your thighs. His hands moved to the waistband of his sweats, thumbs hooking under the material and pushing them down along with his boxers.

He moved slowly, maintaining eye contact as a way to tease you. You started to get impatient, moving to push your foot against his hip. “Baby~” you mewled. “Don’t tease.”

Yunho’s smirk spread and he pushed his pants down quickly, his cock springing free. You barely had time to look as he moved to discard his sweats and underwear but was back between your legs quickly.

You licked your lips as he hooked his arms under your knees, pulling your body flush with his before guiding his cock to lay against your stomach. “I know I ask this every time,” he said in a husky voice, looking down at his length resting against you, almost reaching your navel. “But you sure you can take all of this, angel?”

You glanced down at his cock, moving your hand to take it in your hand and making him hiss at the contact.

You could only give him a couple good strokes before he took your hand, grabbing both wrists in one hand and pinning them to the mattress. “Yes,” you squeaked. “I can take it.”

Your words paired with the way you looked up at him had his heart pounding, the animalistic urge to just ram his cock into you and fuck you until you went dumb came over him but he managed to resist.

This time.

Instead, he pulled back slightly, guiding the tip of his cock to your waiting slit. Your body shuddered as he rubbed against your folds, pressing against your clit lightly before he slowly started to sink into your cunt.

On instinct, you spread your legs wider to accommodate him as he leaned further over you.

Your lips parted as a moan slipped out, each inch he gave you stretching you out. It didn’t matter how many times you took his cock, it was always still a task to get the whole length inside you.

Yunho paused, hand still pinning your wrists above your head, the other hand moving to brace his weight so he wouldn’t crush you against the mattress. “Fuuuuuck,” he hissed, eyes fluttering shut as your walls squeezed him, enticing him in further. He had to take a few breaths, trying to regain his composure. His cock twitched, threatening to blow his load immediately.

It didn’t matter how many times he gave you his cock, you were still just as tight as the first time he fucked you.

“Yunnie, please,” you whimpered, hips rolling up to meet his, allowing him to slide in further. “Please, more.”

The way you looked under him, so small and already looking so fucked out, spurred him. He pressed further into you, sliding in with ease thanks to your earlier orgasm and his prep work.

It only took a few more moments until he was buried fully inside you. “Fuck me,” he groaned, cock twitching as you squeezed around him. His eyes dropped, falling onto the slight bulge just under your belly button.

“Would you look at that,” Yunho chuckled, moving his free hand to press down on it. You let out a moan, pussy clenching his length and drawing a moan from him. “Keep doing that and I won’t be able to hold back,” he hissed. You whimpered, thighs tightening around his hips. “Don’t hold back, Yunnie,” you cooed, raising your hips, trying to fuck yourself on him.

Yunho released your wrists, placing both hands on the mattress and pulling out slightly, only to thrust back into you, making you cry out as your body shifted up the sheets from the force.

Yunho chuckled darkly, his hands gripping your hips as he held you still, pulling back and thrusting into you again. “Oh, fuck,” you cursed, your own hands moving to grab his wrists.

“Keep going,” you moaned. “Don’t stop.”

Obliging your request, Yunho set a steady but heavy pace, thrusting sharply into you, each drag of his cock had you moaning, your grip on his wrists tightening as you tried to ground yourself.

“You’re taking me so well,” Yunho panted, eyes falling between your legs where he watched himself disappear inside your body repeatedly. “Oh fuck,” he moaned, eyes fluttering shut. “’m not gonna last,” he added, opening his eyes to look down at you.

“Cum for me, then,” you moaned but he shook his head. “Not until you’ve cum on this cock like a good girl,” he groaned, pulling your hips to meet his thrusts. One of your hands moved, grabbing a fistful of the sheets under you as you cried out.

“You cum for me first,” Yunho argued, increasing speed as he felt your cunt spasm around him. “That’s it. You’re doing so good, angel,” he continued, eyes shutting as he lost himself in the feeling. “Fuck! Be a good little girl and cum on my cock,” he growled, chasing his high as your orgasm crashed over you.

You let out a cry of his name, moans slipping out between curses as he helped you ride out your second orgasm.

“Fuuuuck,” Yunho hissed, feeling his own climax approaching. “Shit!”

You gasped as he pulled out of you, just in time to release all over your stomach, his hand gripping his cock as he squeezed every last drop out.

Looking down at the mess he created, Yunho couldn’t help but chuckle as he tried to regain control of his breathing. “S-sorry baby,” he stuttered. You glanced down at your stomach and back up at him. Your hands moved, reaching up for him. “S’okay,” you muttered sleepily.

Yunho laced his fingers with yours and brought each hand up, kissing the back of them before he released his grip. “I really made a mess,” he said, clicking his tongue disapprovingly at his own actions.

You opened your mouth to respond but gasped when he leaned over, dragging his tongue over your skin, lapping up his own essence. “Yunho!” You whispered, in awe of what he’d just done. He drew level with you, taking your cheeks in his hand and squeezed, forcing your mouth open.

His tongue entered your mouth, depositing his cum on your own tongue, turning into a sloppy kiss.

“That was so dirty!” you hissed when he pulled back. He smiled cheekily at you, giving you a shrug.

“Yeah, but you liked it, so… that makes you just as nasty as me, tiny girl.”

#ateez scenarios #ateez imagines #ateez smut #ateez x reader #jeong yunho #yunho scenarios #yunho imagines #yunho smut #yunho x reader #kwanisms kinkuary #kinkuary 2023

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mostlysignssomeportents · 2 months

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Big Tech disrupted disruption

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/02/08/permanent-overlords/#republicans-want-to-defund-the-police

Before "disruption" turned into a punchline, it was a genuinely exciting idea. Using technology, we could connect people to one another and allow them to collaborate, share, and cooperate to make great things happen.

It's easy (and valid) to dismiss the "disruption" of Uber, which "disrupted" taxis and transit by losing $31b worth of Saudi royal money in a bid to collapse the world's rival transportation system, while quietly promising its investors that it would someday have pricing power as a monopoly, and would attain profit through price-gouging and wage-theft.

Uber's disruption story was wreathed in bullshit: lies about the "independence" of its drivers, about the imminence of self-driving taxis, about the impact that replacing buses and subways with millions of circling, empty cars would have on traffic congestion. There were and are plenty of problems with traditional taxis and transit, but Uber magnified these problems, under cover of "disrupting" them away.

But there are other feats of high-tech disruption that were and are genuinely transformative – Wikipedia, GNU/Linux, RSS, and more. These disruptive technologies altered the balance of power between powerful institutions and the businesses, communities and individuals they dominated, in ways that have proven both beneficial and durable.

When we speak of commercial disruption today, we usually mean a tech company disrupting a non-tech company. Tinder disrupts singles bars. Netflix disrupts Blockbuster. Airbnb disrupts Marriott.

But the history of "disruption" features far more examples of tech companies disrupting other tech companies: DEC disrupts IBM. Netscape disrupts Microsoft. Google disrupts Yahoo. Nokia disrupts Kodak, sure – but then Apple disrupts Nokia. It's only natural that the businesses most vulnerable to digital disruption are other digital businesses.

And yet…disruption is nowhere to be seen when it comes to the tech sector itself. Five giant companies have been running the show for more than a decade. A couple of these companies (Apple, Microsoft) are Gen-Xers, having been born in the 70s, then there's a couple of Millennials (Amazon, Google), and that one Gen-Z kid (Facebook). Big Tech shows no sign of being disrupted, despite the continuous enshittification of their core products and services. How can this be? Has Big Tech disrupted disruption itself?

That's the contention of "Coopting Disruption," a new paper from two law profs: Mark Lemley (Stanford) and Matthew Wansley (Yeshiva U):

https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4713845

The paper opens with a review of the literature on disruption. Big companies have some major advantages: they've got people and infrastructure they can leverage to bring new products to market more cheaply than startups. They've got existing relationships with suppliers, distributors and customers. People trust them.

Diversified, monopolistic companies are also able to capture "involuntary spillovers": when Google spends money on AI for image recognition, it can improve Google Photos, YouTube, Android, Search, Maps and many other products. A startup with just one product can't capitalize on these spillovers in the same way, so it doesn't have the same incentives to spend big on R&D.

Finally, big companies have access to cheap money. They get better credit terms from lenders, they can float bonds, they can tap the public markets, or just spend their own profits on R&D. They can also afford to take a long view, because they're not tied to VCs whose funds turn over every 5-10 years. Big companies get cheap money, play a long game, pay less to innovate and get more out of innovation.

But those advantages are swamped by the disadvantages of incumbency, all the various curses of bigness. Take Arrow's "replacement effect": new companies that compete with incumbents drive down the incumbents' prices and tempt their customers away. But an incumbent that buys a disruptive new company can just shut it down, and whittle down its ideas to "sustaining innovation" (small improvements to existing products), killing "disruptive innovation" (major changes that make the existing products obsolete).

Arrow's Replacement Effect also comes into play before a new product even exists. An incumbent that allows a rival to do R&D that would eventually disrupt its product is at risk; but if the incumbent buys this pre-product, R&D-heavy startup, it can turn the research to sustaining innovation and defund any disruptive innovation.

Arrow asks us to look at the innovation question from the point of view of the company as a whole. Clayton Christensen's "Innovator's Dilemma" looks at the motivations of individual decision-makers in large, successful companies. These individuals don't want to disrupt their own business, because that will render some part of their own company obsolete (perhaps their own division!). They also don't want to radically change their customers' businesses, because those customers would also face negative effects from disruption.

A startup, by contrast, has no existing successful divisions and no giant customers to safeguard. They have nothing to lose and everything to gain from disruption. Where a large company has no way for individual employees to initiate major changes in corporate strategy, a startup has fewer hops between employees and management. What's more, a startup that rewards an employee's good idea with a stock-grant ties that employee's future finances to the outcome of that idea – while a giant corporation's stock bonuses are only incidentally tied to the ideas of any individual worker.

Big companies are where good ideas go to die. If a big company passes on its employees' cool, disruptive ideas, that's the end of the story for that idea. But even if 100 VCs pass on a startup's cool idea and only one VC funds it, the startup still gets to pursue that idea. In startup land, a good idea gets lots of chances – in a big company, it only gets one.

Given how innately disruptable tech companies are, given how hard it is for big companies to innovate, and given how little innovation we've gotten from Big Tech, how is it that the tech giants haven't been disrupted?

The authors propose a four-step program for the would-be Tech Baron hoping to defend their turf from disruption.

First, gather information about startups that might develop disruptive technologies and steer them away from competing with you, by investing in them or partnering with them.

Second, cut off any would-be competitor's supply of resources they need to develop a disruptive product that challenges your own.

Third, convince the government to pass regulations that big, established companies can comply with but that are business-killing challenges for small competitors.

Finally, buy up any company that resists your steering, succeeds despite your resource war, and escapes the compliance moats of regulation that favors incumbents.

Then: kill those companies.

The authors proceed to show that all four tactics are in play today. Big Tech companies operate their own VC funds, which means they get a look at every promising company in the field, even if they don't want to invest in them. Big Tech companies are also awash in money and their "rival" VCs know it, and so financial VCs and Big Tech collude to fund potential disruptors and then sell them to Big Tech companies as "aqui-hires" that see the disruption neutralized.

On resources, the authors focus on data, and how companies like Facebook have explicit policies of only permitting companies they don't see as potential disruptors to access Facebook data. They reproduce internal Facebook strategy memos that divide potential platform users into "existing competitors, possible future competitors, [or] developers that we have alignment with on business models." These categories allow Facebook to decide which companies are capable of developing disruptive products and which ones aren't. For example, Amazon – which doesn't compete with Facebook – is allowed to access FB data to target shoppers. But Messageme, a startup, was cut off from Facebook as soon as management perceived them as a future rival. Ironically – but unsurprisingly – Facebook spins these policies as pro-privacy, not anti-competitive.

These data policies cast a long shadow. They don't just block existing companies from accessing the data they need to pursue disruptive offerings – they also "send a message" to would-be founders and investors, letting them know that if they try to disrupt a tech giant, they will have their market oxygen cut off before they can draw breath. The only way to build a product that challenges Facebook is as Facebook's partner, under Facebook's direction, with Facebook's veto.

Next, regulation. Starting in 2019, Facebook started publishing full-page newspaper ads calling for regulation. Someone ghost-wrote a Washington Post op-ed under Zuckerberg's byline, arguing the case for more tech regulation. Google, Apple, OpenAI other tech giants have all (selectively) lobbied in favor of many regulations. These rules covered a lot of ground, but they all share a characteristic: complying with them requires huge amounts of money – money that giant tech companies can spare, but potential disruptors lack.

Finally, there's predatory acquisitions. Mark Zuckerberg, working without the benefit of a ghost writer (or in-house counsel to review his statements for actionable intent) has repeatedly confessed to buying companies like Instagram to ensure that they never grow to be competitors. As he told one colleague, "I remember your internal post about how Instagram was our threat and not Google+. You were basically right. The thing about startups though is you can often acquire them.”

All the tech giants are acquisition factories. Every successful Google product, almost without exception, is a product they bought from someone else. By contrast, Google's own internal products typically crash and burn, from G+ to Reader to Google Videos. Apple, meanwhile, buys 90 companies per year – Tim Apple brings home a new company for his shareholders more often than you bring home a bag of groceries for your family. All the Big Tech companies' AI offerings are acquisitions, and Apple has bought more AI companies than any of them.

Big Tech claims to be innovating, but it's really just operationalizing. Any company that threatens to disrupt a tech giant is bought, its products stripped of any really innovative features, and the residue is added to existing products as a "sustaining innovation" – a dot-release feature that has all the innovative disruption of rounding the corners on a new mobile phone.

The authors present three case-studies of tech companies using this four-point strategy to forestall disruption in AI, VR and self-driving cars. I'm not excited about any of these three categories, but it's clear that the tech giants are worried about them, and the authors make a devastating case for these disruptions being disrupted by Big Tech.

What do to about it? If we like (some) disruption, and if Big Tech is enshittifying at speed without facing dethroning-by-disruption, how do we get the dynamism and innovation that gave us the best of tech?

The authors make four suggestions.

First, revive the authorities under existing antitrust law to ban executives from Big Tech companies from serving on the boards of startups. More broadly, kill interlocking boards altogether. Remember, these powers already exist in the lawbooks, so accomplishing this goal means a change in enforcement priorities, not a new act of Congress or rulemaking. What's more, interlocking boards between competing companies are illegal per se, meaning there's no expensive, difficult fact-finding needed to demonstrate that two companies are breaking the law by sharing directors.

Next: create a nondiscrimination policy that requires the largest tech companies that share data with some unaffiliated companies to offer data on the same terms to other companies, except when they are direct competitors. They argue that this rule will keep tech giants from choking off disruptive technologies that make them obsolete (rather than competing with them).

On the subject of regulation and compliance moats, they have less concrete advice. They counsel lawmakers to greet tech giants' demands to be regulated with suspicion, to proceed with caution when they do regulate, and to shape regulation so that it doesn't limit market entry, by keeping in mind the disproportionate burdens regulations put on established giants and small new companies. This is all good advice, but it's more a set of principles than any kind of specific practice, test or procedure.

Finally, they call for increased scrutiny of mergers, including mergers between very large companies and small startups. They argue that existing law (Sec 2 of the Sherman Act and Sec 7 of the Clayton Act) both empower enforcers to block these acquisitions. They admit that the case-law on this is poor, but that just means that enforcers need to start making new case-law.

I like all of these suggestions! We're certainly enjoying a more activist set of regulators, who are more interested in Big Tech, than we've seen in generations.

But they are grossly under-resourced even without giving them additional duties. As Matt Stoller points out, "the DOJ's Antitrust Division has fewer people enforcing anti-monopoly laws in a $24 trillion economy than the Smithsonian Museum has security guards."

https://www.thebignewsletter.com/p/congressional-republicans-to-defund

What's more, Republicans are trying to slash their budgets even further. The American conservative movement has finally located a police force they're eager to defund: the corporate police who defend us all from predatory monopolies.

Image: Cryteria (modified) https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:HAL9000.svg

CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en

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cassiesdevblog · 8 months

Text

~Shmovement~ in Grey Area

Hello goober goblins! Grey Area comes out ~September 15th~ and I wanna make some posts going over my involvement with the project 👁️👁️

I joined the project back in March because, while playing early builds, there were a million things, big and small, that I wanted to be able to polish up to really make the game shine, and my top priority was Hailey's movement

Grey Area is a game where beginners will mostly play inside a small range of velocities, but, thanks to @bisthefairy, there are ways to build and maintain greater speeds, so Hailey's movement has to be tuned for both small-scale, precision platforming and large-scale, broader movements. Plus, as most of the level design was already finished when I joined, all my changes had to work with, rather than against, the established design

General momentum adjustments

When I first joined, there were a few ways that slow and fast play would clash with one another. For instance, Hailey had low air friction. This was nice at higher speeds, because you should be able to briefly release the d-pad to shave off a little speed without getting rid of all of it, but it didn't mesh with tighter sections where you'd be asked to land precisely on small platforms

Luckily, since the smaller range of speeds Hailey usually stays within is well defined, I was able to just dramatically increase her air friction while not pressing a direction, only while inside that range.

Unfortunately, this led to a small problem: There are lots of spots in the game where you're meant to bonk off a wall and land on a platform. Where you could previously do this without having to hold a direction, you now had to hold back a little or Hailey wouldn't make it. To fix this, I just made her use the old friction during a bonk. That may seem unintuitive, but the bonk is all about Hailey bouncing back off a wall, so it feels natural for her to travel further. In practice, the discrepancy doesn't feel like a discrepancy.

Dive momentum changes

Hailey's main mechanic is her dive: a burst movement option that lets you speed straight forward. You can cancel out of the move at any point, cutting off all your momentum. However, when I first joined, Hailey would keep a small amount of the dive's momentum after a cancel. The intent was to let you keep the flow going even after a cancel, but it led to lots of overshooting in a game with low margins for error. I preserved the original way if the player is holding in the direction of the dive, so you can still keep your flow going, but if you're not pressing a direction, Hailey will instead cancel all the momentum and drop straight down

Release cancel (aka, half the reason I joined the project)

These subtle changes have made Hailey much more reliable to control. It feels much easier to translate your intent onto the screen regardless of how fast you're going (September 15th btw)

Speaking of intent, I've had a big impact on this game's controls! The first time I ever played, the dive could only be canceled by releasing B and then pressing it again. I felt this was really cumbersome and I barely felt in control, so I wanted to cancel by just releasing B

This was controversial though, as everyone else preferred the original way, so I instead suggested being able to cancel by pressing back on the d-pad, as it felt instinctual to hold against the direction of momentum to cancel it. I also suggested being able to press down to cancel, since a player might think of it as dropping Hailey down. Fortunately, both were implemented and the game became a bit more comfortable for me, but I couldn't get the idea of releasing B to cancel out of my head

Later, when I finally got my hands on the project, release cancel was the first thing I added, and it felt just as right and perfect and natural as I imagined it would. I figured, if I just made the other devs play with it, they might see the merits of it and change their minds. Tragically it didn't change any minds, but I was ultimately able to persuade Alayna to make it an option in the options menu. When you play the game, especially if you don't like how cancelling is controlled, please please please try changing "Press to dive" to "Hold to dive" in the options menu and join the church of release cancel. We have plenty of room :')

Other controls

I've made a bunch of other small changes to the controls too! Generally, I like every button on the controller to do something, so I mirrored a lot of functions to previously unused buttons. Hopefully this makes the game feel more responsive and playful, as well as a little more accessible! I also made it so Hailey sits down when you press down :) It's one of only a few graphics I drew for the game! (did I mention September 15th btw)

The Bounce 👁️👁️

I've saved my biggest (and most iterated upon) change for last >:3

When Hailey dives at smaller enemies, she'll bounce off as if she goomba stomped them, which cancels her dive and allows her to dive again. I added this because I thought the sick tricks and possibility for advanced play were too sweet to pass up. Not to mention it just seemed like fun. Plus, it would add exciting counterplay to some previously unexciting enemies. It's a simple mechanic, but it underwent a lot of changes!

Firstly, it used to work on almost every enemy, but it didn't feel right against bigger monsters. We ended up deciding that Hailey should only be able to do this against enemies around her size, so in practice, this mainly comes up with the Golch enemy. When I first played, I found the Golch really annoying, as the best and safest strategy to deal with it was to just stand and wait for it to fly toward you so you could jump on it. Now, you can dive right at it and pull off sweet tricks instead! This has ended up making room for tons of cool skips and it feels great >:3

I even redesigned the Golch's flight path so that it will usually be flying at your exact elevation (it moves faster vertically than it does horizontally to accomplish this) so you can more consistently dive straight into it

I also made it so that bouncing off an enemy clamps your speed within a relatively small range, as otherwise you would carry the momentum of the dive and easily fly off into a pit

Now, in my mind, this all worked perfectly, but then disaster struck

@zombielesbean, who uses press cancel, would try to press B to cancel right before running into an enemy in order to avoid it, but would press a few frames too late and instead the input would happen after Hailey had bounced off the enemy, so she'd dive again and accidentally fly off into a pit. We tried a million different avenues to resolve this, but all of them were significant downgrades to the mechanic

Fortunately, Alayna found that the issue was only happening because of the enemy placements in one or two spots, and after adjusting them, it was no longer an issue, so fortunately the best version of the mechanic got in >:3

So yeah!!

Those are a few of the ways I've cleaned up and improved Hailey's movement since I joined! I've gotten my grubby paws all over every bit of this game in a similar way. Cleaning things up, tuning numbers, adding effects, making things more clear, overhauling things, enhancing the flavor

A huge takeaway from this project for me has been that polish is a full time job!! Every little bit of polish seems small on its own, but when you add them all up they can make the difference between a decent game and a total banger. It just takes a huge amount of time to accrue all those tiny things. I think that's why they say you should triple all your time estimates on gamedev...!!

Fortunately, I have a good eye and a strong passion for all those little things, so I feel like an extremely valuable asset on this project, even though my hand is largely invisible and it takes long-winded posts like this to even explain what I've done

As Bis puts it, "Cass did for Grey Area before release what Sonic modders do for Sonic games after release"

~September 15th you vibrant fools~

#grey area #gamedev #schmovement #programming #trans game dev

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kairiscorner · 8 months

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i saw your miguel requests are open!! Yay!

Could you write a Miguel x f!reader where reader is a stubborn, confident daughter of a crime lord and Miguel is required to be her bodyguard even though she doesn't want anything to do with her father's work?

HI DEARRRRR OFC OFC !! sorry if the climax seemed so sudden, i just wanted to do something related to the third image on the header bc it looked so cute rgh ... anyway, hoping you like this !!

(reblogs are greatly appreciated, it helps get my content out there! if you guys like what you see, please reblog it too <:D)

bodyguard!miguel o'hara x fem!reader

the guy your father hired to protect you was... a real piece of work.

first of all, he was worse than your dad; he refused to let you do anything by yourself or go anywhere all alone, even in the most private of places. he sits close by you, or across you, while eating–he stands outside of the comfort room, standing all menacingly by your stall door and glaring down at anybody who walked by, and he'd decline invitations to anywhere fun and exciting for you in fear that you'd 'get all rebellious' on your father. "do you not know how to have fun? i'm starting to think you were, what, synthesized in a lab, never experienced wanting to have some excitement in your life?" you asked him sarcastically as he drove you home, with you at the front seat–your arms folded over your chest as you narrowed your eyes at your stoic-faced bodyguard.

miguel didn't budge and kept his eyes on the road; expertly driving without flinching or looking away one bit from the road ahead of you two. you raised an eyebrow and sighed, slumping further into your seat. "you're like the terminator, like, i don't even know if you kill people, but you're like him–a mindless robot that can only follow orders." you said with a huff. he finally spoke soon enough as you two hit a red light. "your father's paying me to follow orders, not to do anything else, let alone have idle chit-chat with his daughter." he said pretty bluntly and monotonously, making you groan exaggeratedly. "of course he would never pay for me to have a friend. he did when i was seven years old, though, that went to shit after a while, however." you blabbed as miguel looked at you from the corner of his eye.

"wait, of course, you don't wanna hear it." "no, no, keep talking, ma'am." miguel then blurted out himself. "that is... if you wish to keep talking." he added, distancing himself from you while still getting a little closer than ever before. you were surprised at how miguel was taking the initiative to talk to you, and you figured that since you had nothing better to do, why not tell this man your whole life story, thoughts, problems, and... just everything you've been keeping to yourself all this time. "fuck, i wanna leave home." you confessed to him as miguel slowed the car down, coming to a turn. "...and why's that?" he asked you, making you immediately shrug in response. "well, my dad wants to protect me and all, which, i'm grateful for, but... i don't wanna have a part in everything he does, i don't want... i don't want to do what he does, and i'm scared that, one day... i will end up like him." you confessed, tears streaming down your cheeks without you realizing. this has happened multiple times while you were alone, but never with anyone else–you'd sometimes cry without you realizing and mask it up, switch your emotions like flicking a switch on and off.

miguel, for the first time in a long while, turned his head to look at you and away from the road for a bit. he slowed down his driving and just... looked onto your scared, worried eyes that reflected just how fearful you were of becoming like your father. you were always so daring, rebellious, and confident to boot–you never showed fear unless it was a real, tangible fear you felt like it might come true one day if you weren't careful. he cleared his throat and looked up ahead, back on the road. "it's not my place to say anything regarding this matter, i'm not the most well-equipped person to have anything remotely helpful to say about any of this, but, um... you don't know that." he whispered those last few words in a small, creaking voice, not even sure why he's saying what he's saying; gulping back the already spoken words and shirking back in the driver's seat silently.

you sniffled back the tears you didn't realize you were holding in and looked at him quizzically. "...don't know what?" you asked him with a gentle voice, prompting him to finish his thought. miguel sighed and pulled up to the driveway, cutting through the dark evening with the bright lights illuminating from the luxurious car miguel drove you in and shut off the ignition, shifting in his seat as anxiety and nervousness filled his mind. "you... you don't know if you'll really be like him. you're not your father, you might not even become your father; you're... you. and, i like you for who you are, for all your snarkiness, cheekiness, you giving me a hard time all the time, i... i appreciate you as you are now." he finished, feeling his face get all flustered as he saw the way your eyes shone in the dark, how your tears from earlier glistened as the moon shone above and let light pour down upon your twinkling face. he got out of the car and went over to your door as usual to escort you out, but when he got close to your door, you left the window open and—as he got nearer towards you—you grabbed him gently by his tie, pulled him in close, and pressed your plush lips against his. you didn't know what you just did or why you even did what you did—but something about his words stuck to you and compelled you to... do some things you'd keep to yourself.

"i, um... thank you. you're... not as emotionless as i thought you'd be, i-i suppose..." you murmured silently as you pulled away from him and let his tie slip from your hands as you scooched out of the passenger and driver's seat, exiting out the door miguel left through; watching him stare at you with widened eyes and a bashful, surprised look on his face that made him think and ask himself, 'was that... real?' he merely nodded and kept clearing his throat as he stumbled away from the car, but fumbling the keys in his hands to lock the doors once he realized he forgot to do so. you swore you heard him mutter how 'soft your lips felt, how 'if your dad learned about that... there was no telling what'd happen to him', but most of all—you swore that he seemed softer, kinder, and a lot more vulnerable than before you kissed him.

he seemed so much warmer now, somehow...

this wasn't stopping you totally from overthinking all the time, though, it was good to know that he respected you as a person as opposed to some girl he was going to protect at all costs. but the reason why you kissed him... it sent your face to a furious fluster and made your brain short-circuit even remembering it all, made you weak in the knees and stutter a whole lot while thinking about it, looking forward to the next time you'd see him, for once.

tags !! @miguelswifey04 @hearts4gabri @hisachuu @wreakingmarveloushavok @fictarian @yuridopted0 @simsrandomstuff @luvstarrstruck @popeheywardssecretgf @meeom @arachnoia @melovetitties @fable-library @ophanimgold @smokeywhalee @capnshtfce

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an-0nii · 3 months

Text

☆*:.｡. o.o .｡.:*☆*:.｡. o.o .｡.:*☆*:.｡. o.o .｡.:*☆*

"So make the friendship bracelet, take the moment and taste it. You've got no reason to be afraid."

Prompt: You confess to your classmate, Geto Suguru, via bracelets. :D

Pairings: Geto Suguru x GN!Reader (College AU setting :))

Warnings: Just tooth-rotting fluff, bits of angst?? Reader is kind of jealous lol

☆*:.｡. o.o .｡.:*☆*:.｡. o.o .｡.:*☆*:.｡. o.o .｡.:*☆*

You and Geto Suguru are friends. At least that's what you try to pretend.

Everyday, it's just the same cycle. Wake up, shower, study, repeat.

What only makes it different was when you and Geto would hang out alone, leaving the other two of his friends.

Whenever he picked you up after your last class, the two of you would go to your secret spot, talking and just... bond.

Yet, you can't help but feel the blooming feeling that grows in your heart, the butterflies fluttering around your stomach. Everyday, it grew and grew uncontrollably.

But whenever you'd see him hang out with another guy or girl, you feel empty and quite... envious? No, it felt like shame and guilt swallowed you whole.

So, when the finals came around, you were determined to ace your exams, having to ignore the raven-haired man.

Thousands of pings, ring after ring, you'd deny him. Heck, you wouldn't even answer a single call nor respond to his texts, not even a single read or seen.

Of course, Geto was oblivious and just assumed that you were busy. But, of course, he couldn't help but ponder,

"Did I do something wrong...?"

None came to his mind. No reason. Yet, he was so adamant on what was the whole reason of the sudden ignorance, to the sudden change of direction of your friendship.

Meanwhile, in your room, you made matching bracelets for you and him. He had a black and white flower bracelet, while you had the white and black version of it. What was the difference? The charms. He was the moon, while you were a star.

You even wrote a tiny letter.

"You were the moon to my Earth. Everyday, you surround me and my head. Yet, I was only a star. So small, fragile, knowing that I could never have you. But, if this takes a turn, then... I'll gladly be the sun to your moon, as cringy as it sounds. :)"

As the finals were done, days after practicing the graduation, you built up the courage to face him.

☆*:.｡. o.o .｡.:*☆*:.｡. o.o .｡.:*☆*:.｡. o.o .｡.:*☆*

The day of the graduation came. You dressed up into your robe and cap, while Geto sat in front of you by a few rows.

God, he looked handsome. He looked ethereal.

And so, the anticipation, excitement, nervousness built up, stacking around.

And the moment the Principal had asked to flip the tassels of your cap, you two had graduated happily.

When it was time to go home, you went up to Geto, who looked relieved to see you approaching.

"Hey! You didn't answer to any of my texts nor calls... What's the problem? Did I do something wrong?ー"

You cutted him off, showing a black velvet box with a smile.

"About that... I'm sorry. I was too caught up with this and y'know, exams." You responded with an awkward chuckle.

He then dragged you away to somewhere with seats and a table. As he settled down, he sighed.

"Look, you really didn't have to work so much. Have you been getting rest?" Geto worried with a prominent scowl on his face.

"Never mind that! Open the box." You giggled.

The moment he hesitantly opened, he was in starstruck, in awe of your creation.

He read the inside of the box, his wonderful eyes trailing each word that was delicately written.

"No wonder you were busy, you sappy idiot." Geto chuckled with a smile.

"So make the friendship bracelets~" You sang with a shrug.

"Take the moment and taste it, you've got no reason to be afraid." Geto added, taking your hand.

"I like you, you dumbass." Geto laughed sweetly.

God, you love that laugh. Maybe this was worth it, after all. Not only did you graduate, but you left the campus with your now boyfriend.

"Didn't know that I'd be graduating from this school with a boyfriend now." You sighed playfully with a smile.

"I love you."

All of the envy, jealousy, sadness, was replaced with joy, love, and happiness.

There were no more dull or lonely nights, no more crying for this "one-sided love" that was always a mutual thing. For you, who adores Geto, had graduated happily with happiness and love. And for he, who fawns over you, had now made you the love of his life.

And with that, the two kissed with love and affection, happy enough that this was all resolved and ended in a good chapter.

☆*:.｡. o.o .｡.:*☆*:.｡. o.o .｡.:*☆*:.｡. o.o .｡.:*☆*

Likes, Shares, Comments & Reblogs are appreciated !! ><

#geto suguru #jjk x reader #jjk fluff #jujutsu kaisen x reader #jujutsu kaisen #jjk geto #geto x reader #getou suguru x reader #geto x you #jujutsu geto #geto x y/n

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drunkenbagel · 1 year

Text

Enchanted to meet you - Part 3

Pairing: Pedro Pascal x Spanish f!reader Contents: overall fluff, descriptions of panic attack, angst with comfort a/n: i'm so so sorry for being away so long, i somehow lost access to the account and couldn't post anything!! also have been on a kind of writer's block, so i'm sorry for that too lol. for this part i added some media, let me know if you like it :D Word count: 5,5k Disclaimer: none of the photos used are mine and therefore i do not own them, i just edited them.

Part 1 - Part 2 - Part 3 - Part 4

Your side of the video call stayed silent for a moment, while you were trying to process what Pedro just said.

“y/n? Did I lost you?” he asked, and groaned. “Maldita cobertura de LA” (Damned LA reception.)

“Wha- What did you just say?” you questioned again. “Are you kidding me right now? Because if you are, no te lo perdonaré nunca.” (I'll never forgive you)

”What? I just-” he started another sentence, but he was interrupted by someone asking to take a picture with him. You quickly silenced your mic and turned off your camera, not wanting to be seen by the people he was with. They would probably get the wrong idea, getting him in trouble. Not to mention the controversy and the incessant hate train that the situation would create. You knew Pedro was sensitive when it came to hurt and pain, even if it didn't seem that way just because he brushed it off with goofiness and some jokes. So, you tried your best to avoid any kind of problem that seeing someone like you with him could cause. After a few minutes, he focused his phone on his face again.

“Hey, sorry about that, darlin'” he said with a side smile. “Some people asked- Are you still there?”

You connected your mic and camera again. “Yeah, sorry. Didn't want to disturb you.”

He frowned. “Don't say that. You don't.”

You felt a small pang on your chest, but you brushed it off by jumping again to the previous topic.

“So, what is that thing you were telling me? You're inviting me where?”

“Oh, yeah! I was thinking if you'd like to come with me to Los Angeles. I've got some long filming ahead and was wondering if you'd like to visit me. I'm going to stay at my house here, and of course, as my best friend, you have a designated room” he said laughing. “I could show you around and stuff. You know, to see the beautiful places here.”

“I mean... I'd sure as hell would love it, don't get me wrong or anything” you said, letting out a nervous chuckle. “But, uhm...”

You didn't know how to tell him that you were dying to see Los Angeles since you moved to the United States, but that you were afraid to be outside with him and the consequences that it could bring. You two had been basically best friends for almost two and a half years now, but he was still a celebrity, for fuck's sake. And you were... Average. You always tried to be really careful when going outside with him. Wasn't he afraid of being seen with you? It was easier to blend in the few times you two went out in New York, especially since you preferred to go out mostly at night-time or just hang out at his house.

“Then it's settled! I'll be back there in like a week, and after a few days we can come back here for as long as you like. I think it'll be so fun being here with you, you'll love this! I'll show you so many things here. Oh, I also could show you around the studios, maybe you'll see someone from those crime shows you're obsessed with.”

“Hey! Why the cute rant and then you attack me? Not fair” you said cracking a small smile. “I appreciate your invite, really, but... I don't know, I have my job, my rent...”

“y/n, since your promotion you practically work from home. You don't go to the office anymore. And about your apartment, you always complain about the landlord, the sink, the place itself. Si no es esto, es lo otro. Why don't you move out and look for anything else?” (If it's not this, it's that.)

“I-” you tried to think of any excuses, but he was right. You had been looking for apartments, but it was very difficult to find anything decent in New York with an average paycheck. You sighed, defeated. “Look, I know you're right, but what do you want me to do? Just magically find something?”

He hummed, and brought his hand to his chin, thinking. You almost laughed. It looked like he was thinking so hard. After a few moments, he snapped his fingers.

“Here's the deal. I know this filming is going to be at least three months, so how about you stay with me here, and then you can stay at mine in New York? You know you have a room at my place anyways.”

“What? That is not-” You felt your cheeks heat up. How could he be so calm about this? “So that is your solution? You want me to move in with you?”

“I wouldn't say that, it's more like... A temporary solution until you find a place for yourself. You know you practically spend all your time in my house when I'm there! Also, you could stop paying rent for that shithole while staying with me, so I only see positive points here. Am I wrong?”

He smiled at the camera while you ran a hand through your hair, stressed. He had a very valid point, of course, but he said it so casually that it left you a bit dumbfounded. So did this mean that he didn't care to be seen with you? His New York apartment was in a multiple housing building, so it was always easier for you to go in unnoticed. But Los Angeles? You didn't know if that was possible. People there were more used to seeing celebrities, of course, but the anxious thoughts were not leaving you alone.

“Hey, I hope I'm not making you uncomfortable or anything. You know you can always say no” he said with a worried tone.

“I know, I know. I was just thinking...” you sighed. “You're right. But are you sure you don't mind me being there with you? Or anywhere close for that matter? Are you sure it's okay? Because I wouldn't-”

“Y'think I would have said it if I didn't mean it? You're offending me!” he said laughing. “Now, seriously. I'd love to have you around more. You know I miss you when we're apart.”

“Aw, mi Pedrito se enterneció. ¡Te he ablandado! How did you live without me?” you joked. (My little Pedro got soft. I have softened you!)

His could feel his cheeks getting red, but he tried to brush it off. “Anda, cállate. Do you accept my deal or not? The offer is now for limited time.” (C'mon, shut up.)

“Okay, okay! I do accept” you said laughing. “But I'll need help with moving if I have to leave everything at your apartment before going to LA. You help me or the deal is off.”

“You got it” he said with a wide smile. The way his eyes wrinkled while he was smiling or laughing made your heart skip a beat. It was too cute for your heart to handle, you loved it. The way he grasped onto anyone around him while he let out the cutest belly laugh, or how contagious they were.

Little did you know he was thinking the same thing about you. Pedro loved your laugh, especially when it was shared with him. Oh, how his heart started to beat faster every time you sent him a message. Or how that one time you were video chatting him and you felt so comfortable that you fell asleep still in the call. He ended up just watching you sleep soundly before falling asleep ‘beside you’. And now he was going to have you under the same roof? He felt like he was the happiest man in the world when you accepted. He couldn't believe you did. He had been thinking about asking you since you always complained about how awful your landlord was, or how he refused to fix anything. Truth be told, he wanted to punch that guy more than anything sometimes.

He tried to keep his silly crush for himself, especially since you were much younger than him. The last thing he wanted was to make you uncomfortable, so he tried to keep it away from his thoughts. But it was so damn difficult. You were so kind, so caring, and so sweet. He wanted you all for himself, but whenever he thought about it, he always ended up in the conclusion that you didn't seem to show any interest beyond your friendship. That's why he forced himself to act as he was, just your ‘older’ best friend. Who casually just invited you to live with him.

Cool, cool. Totally normal.

As the days went by, you put your leave notice to your landlord and started packing everything. Pedro helped you with all, just as he promised, even using his own car to move the boxes back and forth between apartments. Luckily, you didn't have that much stuff since your apartment was quite small. Time seemed to pass very slowly but so fast at the same time, leaving your stomach to be a flustered mess of nervousness. Soon enough, you both were waiting into the airline row to enter the plane.

“Oh my god. I can't believe I'm doing this!”

“It's hitting you now?” Pedro answered laughing. “Actually, it's making me feel weird too. But the good kind. I like it when I have you around.”

“Aw” you said pouting. “You like it, but not enough to pay for us to sit together?”

“Are you kidding me? I'm not going to pay 50 extra dollars for a seat. I'm already going to see you all the time when we land, don't give me a hard time with it! Plus, we're only a seat apart, eres una exagerada.” (You're exaggerating.)

“Whatever. I'll remember this betrayal.”

“Ugh” he said smiling while he rolled his eyes. “C'mon, we're next.”

The six hour flight went by faster than you expected it to be, especially since you slept for most of it. The chatty old lady that sat in between you two was kind enough to switch places with Pedro halfway on the flight when she saw the way he looked at you uncomfortably sleeping against the plane window, so he put the armrest back and carefully pulled you to his side so you could sleep on him.

You looked so beautiful like this. Softly moving your hair away from your face, he pushed the stray hairs behind your ear, and you sighed contently. He couldn't stop the smile that formed on his lips.

“How long have you been dating, dear?”

Pedro turned his head to his right, confused. “What?”

“Oh, I'm sorry. Are you married perhaps? It's just that I didn't see your rings so I guessed you didn't pop the question yet. Don't tell me this trip is for that! Oh my, congratulations!”

“What? No! No, no” he said while moving his free hand on the air. He could feel his cheeks getting hot and he looked at you quickly in case you had heard the lady, but you were soundly asleep. Then he looked at her again. “It's not like that. We- Uh, we're just friends. She's my best friend. Just that.”

“‘M sorry then, dear. It's just that I heard you two talkin’ about living together, saw you actin’ like you were, and I just assumed. But let me tell ya’, honey, friends don't look at each other like that” she said, briefly patting his thigh while smiling. “My dear Stevie, may he rest in peace, was always lookin’ at me the same. I didn't realize I was in love with him until I was with somebody else, for the love of god! I just assumed he was a good friend and never saw me as nothin’ else. He even helped me with this guy just ‘cause I seemed happy. But you see, honey, he just wanted the best for me as long as I was happy, even if that meant sacrificing his own happiness. I almost lost my dearest because I thought helpin’ me to find joy in another meant that he wasn't interested. I can see how you look at her. Don't let that happen to you, honey. Believe me, not worth the time you lose while y’know that you two are just playin’ pretend.”

Pedro only looked at the woman with his lips briefly parted, his heart heavy on his chest. He didn't want that happening, but he could also not risk ruining the relationship he already had with you. He would never do that. Also, he noticed how you always avoided going to crowded spaces or where paparazzi could spot you two together. How could he not? He knew that you didn't like the attention that kind of things attracted, so he respected your decisions over where to meet. Pedro preferred staying with you watching TV or playing games rather than cameras following him everywhere anyways. In fact, he knew moving to Los Angeles was a huge step for you, since it was nearly impossible to go out and not be spotted by paparazzis. That was mainly why he was feeling so nervous about this whole thing, but he hoped that after all the time that you two had been friends for, maybe you wouldn't be too bashful about going out with him, and would let him recognise you publicly as his friend.

He spent the hour and a half that was left of the flight sleeping with his head on top of yours, only waking up when the lady beside him shook his arm gently to let him know that you were landing. He then did the same with you, and couldn't hold back a smile while he watched you rub your eyes and yawn. After getting off the plane you two went for your baggages, and after you managed to put everything in one big stroller, you started walking outside.

“I'm impressed” he said, watching you push the thing by yourself. “I thought you were going to bring your whole house over here. Is this really everything?”

“Well, no” you said as if it was obvious. “Did you think I was going to bring my scarfs, jackets and big sweaters to LA? I'm not-”

You stopped talking when you saw a man with a camera in the distance. He was taking pictures of you. You gulped and tried to laugh, but an uncomfortable chuckle came out.

“y/n? Are you alright?” asked Pedro, a little worried by your change of demeanour. He moved his eyes in the direction you were looking, and then he saw it. A couple of men with cameras, and they were getting closer. “Hey, look at me.” You linked your eyes with his, and he had a soft look on them. “You'll be alright. C'mon, let's take a taxi and get home.”

You nodded and tried to ignore the sound of clicking cameras getting closer. Taking the stroller, Pedro quickly made his way to a taxi and started packing everything up while you got inside. When the men reached the car you heard him say something before he got to the back of it with you and gave the address to the driver. You nervously took his hand with yours and he squeezed it twice, which was his silent way of asking if you were feeling okay. You squeezed it back once. Yeah, just anxious. You two came up with this method after Pedro realized that you sometimes went non-verbal when you were in situations that made you feel anxious, and he wanted to know how he could help. You rest your head on his shoulder, and he left a kiss on your hair while rubbing his thumb over yours. After a few minutes in silence, he spoke up.

“I'm thinking you won't have much enthusiasm of going out. I understand if you wanna spend the day at home. We can watch a film or something, then order food. Sounds good?”

“Yeah” you answered in a whisper. “I'm sorry.”

“Why? You didn't do anything wrong. I know you're not used to this, and I love you for coming with me to the other side of the country despite knowing the situations that you may have to face. I should be the one apologizing” he said, and kissed your forehead. “I know this will be hard at first, but I want to be able to call you my friend. To talk about you in interviews, or when people ask me about funny stories. And I'm not trying to give you an ultimatum or anything since I understand that you want your privacy, I do too, but with my kind of life, you always have to give something. I don't want you being followed, but at least I want to be able to not hide my amazing best friend to the world.”

“I understand, and I'm okay with it. I didn't just accept moving with you lightly, I knew what I was getting into. And I understand that it may have been difficult not to say anything about me, but I just- I wasn't ready. It's not easy being a celebrity's best friend” you said with a chuckle. “But I also get your point. You have been my best friend for a long time now, and I don't want to hide anymore. I know it's going to be hard, so I need you to be patient with me. More than you have already been, which I'm incredibly thankful for. But it's not going to be something I magically get used to. Don't you think I might also be dying to share you with the world? I'd love to! But I was trying to wrap my head around it. And I did, and I'm ready. So expect me posting about you and your shitty habits everywhere on my Instagram and Twitter from now on.”

He couldn't hold back a wide grin while he took you into a tight hug, and you giggled. “Thank you. Thank you so much for doing this, y/n. Ugh, you're the best. How did I ever bag this good of a friend?”

“I believe you stalked me for weeks, forced Ernesto to tell you things about my schedule, then waited for me in the café every time like a puppy and called it ‘a coincidence’, right?”

“You're saying it like I'm some creep or something! I just liked how normal you treated me, okay? Shut up.”

After arriving to the house and setting your things on your room, Pedro gave you a small tour of the house. You loved it. Especially the views from the amazing balcony that led to a beautiful view of the city. You two opened a bottle of wine while waiting for the takeout to arrive, and you braced yourself to finally face the challenge: going through socials. You were sure that the photos from this morning were all over the internet already, and when you entered Twitter, you confirmed it. The paparazzi pictures where everywhere, and everyone was speculating on how were you related to him. When the food arrived and he was about to dig into it, you spoke.

“Pedro?”

“Yeah?”

“I think it's time to post it” you said while taking a long sip of the glass.

“That fast?” he asked incredulously. You nodded and showed him your phone. “Okay then, one sec.”

He took out his phone and typed something. A few moments later, your phone chimed, and you stared at the Instagram post you were tagged in.

“You bitch! You could have picked another photo” you said while laughing.

“I know, but that's the funniest one” he said chuckling too.

—•—

It had been a bit more than a month since the photo was posted, and people were taking it a lot better than you had expected. Some were even asking you to post ‘unseen’ Pedro content. There were also people that insulted you and told you ugly things, but you decided to ignore and block them. Your social media follower count had exploded, and you had a lot of new people interacting with your normal content, but you got more or less used to it.

You had been out together a couple of times, mostly to get groceries and stuff before Pedro began his filming. He made you copies for every key in the house, and also gave you the spare one for his car in case you ever needed it. But since then, he spent a lot of hours out in the studios, so you mostly saw each other at early mornings or nights.

“Hey, I'm free today so I was thinking of going to the beach or something. I know it's not the best weather, but maybe we could take the car and then rent some bikes and go for a ride over there? What do you think?” Pedro asked you one afternoon while eating lunch.

You yawned while nodding. You had tried not to sleep in the Los Angeles daylight, but you were still kind of used to the New York timezone. Jet lag was no joke, and your shitty sleep schedule didn't help either.

“Sure. But I might be a little out of practice, so you better not laugh at me.”

“But that would be the best part!” he said laughing. “Okay then, I'll go for the car. This way I can show you around a bit more than these past weeks.”

He seemed very happy since he made you two public, and it made your heart go soft at the thought that sharing you with the world had that kind of reaction for him. Sometimes you thought that the people would find your friendship weird because of the age difference, but to your luck, it seemed like most people understood the situation a little. Of course, there were the ones that thought it was weird, or that you two were dating but didn't want to tell, but luckily it wasn't that many people.

When you got dressed Pedro drove to Santa Monica beach, then rented the bikes, and it was then when your small tour began. He showed you Venice beach, his favourite places to eat, drink and you even saw a museum from the outside. When the sun was starting to set, you rode back to the bike renting shop and sat in the sand to watch the sunset.

After it got a little dark, Pedro drove you to a local Mexican restaurant not too far to have dinner. You ordered some tacos and enchiladas, and while eating them both of you talked about how filming was going. He was so excited about it, and he wanted to invite you to set. You told him you would think about it beacuse you too had a job, but you ended up promising you would soon since you could do yours from anywhere and your schedule was more flexible. Pedro had a small desk on the living room so you used it as a makeshift little office.

Unaware for both of you, some people had spotted Pedro at the restaurant and posted it on the internet, which led the paparazzi to the location. They were waiting outside, and when you two realised it, it was too late, since there were already a small swarm of them. Your stomach began to ache with anxiety. This was the first time that you encountered that many together.

“I can ask the staff to let us out from the back” Pedro said after seeing your reaction to the small crowd.

“No, no. I don't want to inconvenience them or anything. We'll just... Go out, and then walk to the car and go back home. I'll be fine” you said, but worry was lingering in your voice.

After getting your leftovers in a small container, paying and gathering your things, you got up and headed to the exit. When Pedro got his hand on the handle of the cristal door, the flashes of the cameras had already began clicking around you. You had to cover your eyes and stop in your tracks for a second, which Pedro used to take your hand and lead you to where the car was a few meters away. Everyone was pushing around and shouting, trying to get his attention.

“Why did you hide her?”

“Did she move in with you?”

“Are you two dating?”

You reached the car, but they were too close. One of them was blocking the passenger door, so you couldn't really get into it. Pedro was already on the driver's side of the car, waiting for you to get in.

“Please move, you're in the middle” you heard Pedro say to them.

The photographers didn't listen and kept shouting while flashing their cameras. They were so close, too close, you felt like your air was slowly getting kicked out of your lungs. But they didn't back off, they just kept moving closer and pushing their way into you to get the best angles.

“Why are you even with her? You can do so much better!”

Pedro turned around to yell at the guy who said that, but he was just in front of you, and while he flinched backwards trying to get away from him thinking Pedro was maybe going to push him, his camera hit your face. It hit you right in the cheek, breaking the skin ever so slightly but enough to make you bleed. You gasped and your head moved down from the impact. You heard Pedro yell your name as he ran to your side, and you could swear the small crowd went silent for an instant before resuming the flashing of the cameras.

“What the fuck is wrong with you?!” Pedro screamed at the guy. He took your face softly in between his hands as he was inspecting the spot which you had been hit on.

“She was in the middle, it's not my fault!”

“It's not your fault?” he said tearing his eyes from you to the man, and felt the worry for you shift into rage inside of him. “If you had even a little bit of a brain you wouldn't have to push anyone, you fucking asshole!”

You couldn't hear anything. Everything sounded like it was muffled. Panic was starting to build rapidly into you, making your limbs shake. Your breath was becoming irregular and your hands were sweating. No, no, no. Not here. Not now. You turned your back to the photographers, facing the car and putting your hands against it in an attempt to ground yourself. Tears started forming in your eyes, and you tried not to spill them. You didn't want to cry, not here, not where you could embarrass Pedro. That was the last thing you wanted. You tried to open the car door with shaky hands, and after what felt like an eternity, you got into the car. You crouched down and took your head between your hands trying to stop your head from pounding. Pedro was so fucking angry at the guy. How could he treat you like that? He had no right to do it. He was almost going to punch him but stopped in his tracks when he saw you get into the car and double over. His stomach sank at the sight. He knew what that position meant for you, and without any other word he got into the car and drove away without caring if he ran over one of those ungrateful men.

“Breathe, baby. We're out, I'm taking you home. We're almost there. Steady breaths.”

He kept talking to you in an effort to ground you, but silent tears were already streaming down your face as you hyperventilated. You hated this, you hated messing up everything. As soon as you were home, Pedro got out of the car and ran to your side. After opening the door, he carefully took you in his arms as you clinged to him, still with uneven breaths. He took you to the living room and lowered both of you to the ground.

“y/n, let's breathe together, okay? Look” he said while taking your hands into his and clutching them into his chest. He breathed in and out slowly a couple of times, and you tried to imitate him, but it was very hard for you, which only got you more frustrated and anxious. “It's alright, don't push it. Slowly. There's no rush, I'm here with you. Now, I'm going to leave your side for a second” he said softly, and you let out a small whine. “It'll be just a moment, and I'll be right back, okay? It's alright, I promise.”

You slightly nodded, still shaking and breathing harshly. Pedro quickly got up and grabbed an ice pack from the freezer, making his way back to you. He then sat in front of you and put it into your hands, holding them to your chest. Cold always helped you calm down.

“Meanwhile... Let's do 5-to-1, alright? Tell me 5 things you can see.”

After a small pause, you nodded and started looking around. “P-photos” you answered with a small shaky voice. “TV. Kitchen. F-fan. Bal- balcony. Shoes.”

“Good. Very good, baby. You're doing amazing” he said with a smile. “Now 4 things you can touch.”

You looked around and with a trembling hand you touched the rug. Then your pants. Then the sofa. And lastly the small coffee table that was in front of the sofa.

“That's good. Very good” he reassured you again. Positive responses helped you feel like you were a bit more in control. “Now three things you can hear.”

You breathed in and out shakily again, and closed your eyes for a moment. You could hear some faint music from the street, playing not too far away. “M- music.” Moving your head slowly, you heard the kitchen clock ticking. “Clock.” Pedro nodded and gave your hands a small squeeze. A breeze made the trees outside crunch. “Wind.”

“Perfect. That's very good, baby. You're doing great. Now can two things you can smell?”

You looked around again, trying to find anything that came into your ratio. You sniffed the air, and saw the abandoned leftover box in the middle of the room.

“F-food.” Pedro smiled at you and nodded. You looked at him with teary eyes, inhaled and then clutched his shirt. “You. Your- cologne.”

He couldn't stop his face softening or the loving look he gave you. He knew you were just saying it because he was the closest thing you could smell, but he couldn't help his heart from beating faster.

“Very good. Now the last one, something you can taste.”

You had calmed down a little, but after a few moments of looking around, your breath became hitched again. You couldn't find anything. Nothing. Not even a mint or some candy. Pedro saw how your thoughts started racing again, and his smile faded completely, panic briefly washing over him too.

“Okay, okay. Remember, slow breaths. Deep and slow, please.”

Your eyes didn't meet his, frantically looking for something that would complete the exercise. You had to complete it. It wasn't right. Pedro thought of every possible solution, but nothing came to mind. Until it did. But he didn't want to do it. It felt wrong, but he saw you start trembling again, he couldn't just leave you to suffer. He knew how important this cycle was to you.

“Oh, fuck this. I- I'm sorry” Pedro muttered while tenderly taking your face in his hands and bringing his lips to meet yours. Your entire body stopped shaking in shock as your eyes widened. You could taste his minty toothpaste along with your shared dinner. Without you noticing, your breath had become slower because of the air shortage. But Pedro noticed that, and he gently pulled back from the kiss. He slowly opened his eyes to meet your still widened ones. For what felt the longest time you two didn't say anything, and his thoughts were the ones that started to race now.

Fuck. I fucked up everything. Why did I even do that? Shit. I ruined it. Now she's going to leave and-

You left the ice pack on the floor, and leaning into him, you snuggled into his lap and put your head on his chest, hugging his waist with your arms. He did the same and held your head with one of his hands, resting his lips on top of it. Pedro was now the one with wide eyes.

What was he supposed to do now? What the hell did this even mean?

#pedro pascal #pedro pascal x reader #pedro pascal x y/n #pedro pascal imagine #pedro pascal x you #fanfiction

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meowmeow-motherfucker · 4 months

Text

Covenant- Chapter 6

Summary: With the five year anniversary of the attack on New York approaching, Odin and Fury come to the agreement that an arranged marriage between Asgard and Earth would show good faith toward all future interactions. When Odin refuses Jane’s candidacy, Agent Coulson is tasked with finding a suitable wife for the prince of Asgard.

Pairing: Loki x OFC

Word count: 11k, get your drinks and snackies, friends

Taglist: @lokisgoodgirl @gigglingtiggerv2 @icytrickster17 @mysteriouslyfriedjellyfish @lokislilkitten @justjoanne242 @amlocked @ddmariegirl @mags-04-blog @sharris8 @meepycheep @iamlokisgloriouspurpose @the-fantasy-loving-angel @jaidenhawke @smolvenger

Please let me know if you'd like to be added to the taglist! Thanks for coming along on this journey with me! Buckle up gang :D

Read it on AO3 here: https://archiveofourown.org/works/51197938/chapters/129363727

Ten days until the wedding

Loki had a problem. A flock of small, garishly colored problems. He stared at the collection of minuscule fake ducks with confusion. He didn’t know what to do with them. The miniature ducks were painted with odd clothing and hats, some with spectacles over their beady false eyes.

The smallest ducks had no clothes, but were a variety of vivid colors and he always found them secreted somewhere on his person. The oddly dressed ones were slightly larger and arrived via parcel, always outside his chamber door when Astrid arrived each morning. The guard swore to Odin he possessed no knowledge of how the parcel got there or who delivered it.

Every day he seemed to gain a new one- each one more odd than the last. The first, bearing an obnoxiously cheerful grin, bore blue-tinted spectacles and a large shirt with colorful flowers. The second wore a smooth rounded helmet and some sort of...fabric...suit with stripes? One of its tiny wings clutched a long thin bat.

Still others were painted with even more ridiculous outfits: a white suit, silver medallion necklace and a puff of hair like a cloud; a brown vest, a red neckerchief, a badge that read ‘sheriff’ and a large brown hat.

His most recent acquisition, wore a Viksø helmet with a long braid coming from underneath, and oversized chest armor as though the duck had been blessed with large breasts.

They were not of Asgardian origin, that much was clear. Obviously Claire was sneaking them onto his person for him to later find when he undressed.

What he couldn’t figure out was how. Loki prided himself on possessing the utmost skill in stealth, being able to read others, being one step ahead of everyone at all times. Yet when he looked back on his interactions with Claire he could not pinpoint a single moment where she might have slipped the ducks onto his person. Obviously, the first duck had been secreted under his vambrace during the play. He’d never caught her in the act; always discovering the evidence of her trickery hours later in his chambers.

Sneaky little mortal.

There was of course, the question of why. What purpose could these grotesque little creatures have? They were soft and easily malformed, they made only the most pitiful squeaks when he squeezed them tightly in his fist. Were they toys? Did she think him a child? Perhaps she thought to occupy his mind at all times; keeping him consumed in the mystery. She had certainly succeeded; he was enthralled.

Perhaps they were part of courtship on Midgard? Loki eyed the newest duck skeptically, as though if he stared at it hard enough the duck would give in and reveal its true purpose. It made sense, he supposed. After all, wasn’t gift-giving part of wooing one’s partner?

But ducks?

~~~~

“You want me to go back to Earth...for this?” Phil asked skeptically, peering over the scrap of paper at Claire.

“Yep.” Claire had a free morning, and was soaking up the sun on her plush couch with one of the books Loki had purchased for her. She felt oddly energized after her private lesson with him, and felt better prepared to tackle princess lessons anew come the afternoon.

“Just this?” Phil pressed.

“Yep.” Claire repeated, turning the page of her book. She’d chosen an account of a forbidden love affair between a nobleman and his servant, and so far, the suspenseful account had sex, betrayal, and even a grisly murder. The crones would be aghast.

“And you want a Monopoly set...why?”

“Are you questioning the future princess royal of Asgard?” Claire asked, her voice heavy with scandal. She looked up at Phil with a cheeky grin.

“I would never,” Phil scoffed. “Forgive me, Your Majesty.” Claire laughed at his terrible attempt at a curtsy.

“Shut up,” Claire set aside her book. “If you really don’t want to, you don’t have to. It was just a thought.”

“If it will make you happy, I’ll do it. Any other requests?”

“Actually...yes, let me write it down,” Claire crossed the room to the desk, adding a few more things to her list. “That’s everything.”

“What is-” Phil laughed as he read the list. “Googly eyes, itching powder, silly string, an airhorn? Are you pranking Loki again?”

“I would never,” Claire gasped. “I’m just thinking it wouldn’t hurt to be prepared.”

“For what, your new clown act?”

“I’m calling it insurance,” Claire replied. “I have no need to prank anyone right now, but it never hurts-”

“Alright, alright, the less I know, the better,” Phil stopped her short. “I’m gonna go and get your...provisions,” He knew Claire wouldn’t ask for the items if she didn’t need them, but he wondered what she could possibly need them for. “I should be back before dinner.”

“Okay, be safe. OH WAIT!”

“What?!”

“Chocolate,” Phil nodded, turning to leave. “Phil! Chocolate!”

“I got it, I got it. I won’t forget your chocolate.” Phil promised before he finally left. Claire returned to her book after Phil left, hoping to finish her chapter before the mid-day meal.

~~~~

Claire’s first appointment of the afternoon was with a florist, and it was easily Claire’s favorite activity so far. She would have spent the rest of the day exploring the palace gardens if she could have- wandering through the lilacs, tulips, and roses was peaceful and aromatic. After some tough decisions, Claire picked the flowers she wanted for the wedding.

The first princess lesson of the afternoon went much better than it had in the past. Claire’s instructor was thrilled by her progress, and advanced her to a more intermediate level of study. Claire was equally pleased and annoyed. No doubt the new material would be more difficult, and Claire didn’t like the idea of relying on Loki for everything. Claire was given a fancy lace and ivory fan and instructed to memorize how to communicate with it. She spent an hour learning how best to express emotions with a fan, which made absolutely no sense to Claire. If she was feeling something, she’d prefer to say it to someone’s face rather than hint at it with a flimsy bit of fabric.

She’d hoped to escape without a jab at her ‘poor posture’, but to her annoyance, her instructor reprimanded her yet again.

To add to her frustration, she was still being forced to learn how to sew. Claire spent an hour making stitches and fixing them, making and fixing, making and fixing. By the end of the lesson, she wanted to stab her instructor in the eyes.

~~~~

“What even is deportment anyway?” Claire sulked in her chambers later that evening. True to his word, Loki had made another appearance in her chambers. He had offered to help her with her fan homework, but Claire needed to vent first, so they had taken up spots on the couch with their snacks in the middle to share. Tonight Loki had brought an assortment of fresh fruit, cheese and bread. “I know how to carry myself just fine.”

“Are you sure about that?” Loki asked skeptically. “You walk like a man.”

“I do not,” Claire protested. “Just because I don’t float like some simpering little rich girl, you think I walk like a man?” she tossed a cherry into her mouth, stem and all.

“You do!”

“Prove it.” Claire challenged around her mouthful of cherry.

“What?” Loki balked.

“I don’t believe it. Show me.”

“Fine,” Loki sighed, getting to his feet and spinning on his heel. He held his arms out as he spun. “Notice that I am standing up straight?” He walked to the fireplace before walking back. “I have good posture. You, on the other hand-” a wave of green flashed over his form and suddenly Claire was looking at herself. “Stand like this.” Loki hunched over in an exaggerated slump, taking another lap to the fireplace.

“I don’t stand like that,” Claire protested. “You’re a terrible actor.”

“Forgive me, what am I thinking; I’m not spouting profanity at every possible opportunity.”

“I do not-”

“You do!” Loki-Claire cried. “You also stomp about angrily like a bear,” another lap with exaggerated, angry stomps. “But if you simply stand up straight, drop your shoulders, keep your chin high, and walk as though you are following a straight line, you will- as you put it- float.” Another wave of green and Loki was taking his spot on the couch again.

“Yeah well, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery so there.” Claire stuck her tongue out at him, showing off the half-twisted cherry stem in her mouth.

“What are you doing?” Loki asked.

“Oh, I’m tying the cherry stem into a knot.”

“What? Why?” Claire showed off her hard work, giggling as Loki inspected the knotted cherry stem with confusion.

“Because I can.”

“Is this a common skill for Midgardians?”

“This is definitely a hidden skill,” Claire replied, setting the stem on the tray between them. “It’s kind of accepted fact that people who can tie cherry stems into knots with their tongues are good kissers, but I don’t think any actual scientific study has proven that.”

“What an odd belief,” Loki chuckled. “Is there any validity to it for you specifically?” his gaze dropped to her mouth, sending Claire’s internal temperature skyrocketing. She bit her lip, the familiar tingling of anticipation budding in her belly.

“You’ll just have to wait and find out, won’t you?” she asked teasingly. “Will you teach me about the dumb fans please, so I can go back to reading my book?”

“Perhaps this venture will not be so terrible after all,” Loki chuckled to himself. “If I didn’t know better,” he plucked a fan from the couch, snapping it open emphatically. “I’d say you weren’t interested in princess lessons.”

“I’m only as interested as I need to be to shut my instructors up.”

“Then pay attention,” Loki twirled one of the fans, opening the second before flipping them in his hands. “If it helps- think of them as weapons. They are balanced just as a blade would be.”

“Yeah, because people will tremble in fear at my skills with a fan,” Claire rolled her eyes. “It’s not exactly a deadly weapon.”

“Just like any skill, darling; with enough practice it can be,” Loki replied. “Learn the rules and learn them well, and with intelligence and patience-” he closed one of the fans, flipping it in his hand so she could grab the handle. “You can bring anyone to their knees.”

~~~~

Seven days until the wedding

With one week remaining until their wedding, Claire and Loki met Frigga outside the throne room right after breakfast. Their night time visits had continued, with Loki assisting Claire master her lessons as well as spending time getting to know each other. It was thrilling, keeping their night time visits secret, almost

“Today we shall rehearse the ceremony!” Frigga announced as she clapped her hands together excitedly. Claire thought it was too early for her to be so enthusiastic, and the grumpy look on Loki’s face told her he agreed. “Loki, you must at least try to seem excited.” she scolded gently.

“Of course mother, what was I thinking,” Loki said flatly, plastering an obviously fake smile on his face. “What a lovely day to celebrate! My entire life is being upheaved in a farcical-ouch!” he complained when Frigga slapped the back of his head. Claire felt zero sympathy for him as he rubbed the spot his mother had struck. That’s not what you said last night, asshole.

“My life is being upheaved too- just throwing that out there.” She muttered grumpily from behind him. Loki’s head fell back against his shoulders, a ragged sigh of exhaustion escaping him.

“I am aware. Everyone in a ten mile radius is aware. You needn’t remind me.”

“Well I’d hate for you to forget. I’m nice like that.” Loki let out an uncharacteristic snort.

“Is this to be a day for incorrect adjectives as well as vexing activities?” he asked scathingly. “For shame, little mortal. Marriages are not meant to be built on lies.”

“You’re the expert.” Claire replied with a shrug.

“Perhaps you’d like to choose a different word?” Loki looked down at her, a perfectly arched eyebrow poised in anticipation.

“Annoyed.” Loki grinned with satisfaction. Frigga clapped her hands to gain their attention, reminding them both she was still there.

“Focus, darlings, you both have a great deal of appointments today and we must be punctual,” she chided. “Now, the decorations are not complete so you will need to use your imaginations- but we will run through the procession so there are no hiccups.” she made a quick gesture with her hand and the guards flanking the doors pulled them open.

“Oh,” Claire said softly, glancing about the cavernous room. Chairs had been aligned into rows, with bows of soft green and purple chiffon ribbon attached to the ends. Tall stands for flowers were in place but looked naked without the flora. “It looks lovely.” She offered, not wanting her future mother-in-law to think she didn’t appreciate her efforts.

“I’m so pleased you think so,” Frigga smiled warmly. “The decorations will be finished by tonight. Purple blaveis, as you requested, with some white lodnerublom to round out the arrangements. Now, it is custom that married women wear their hair bound in some way. Once the ceremony is complete, Loki will bind your hair before you leave the throne room.” She explained.

“And I shall give you the ugliest braid ever.” Loki threatened gravely.

“You’ll do no such thing,” Frigga chastised him before Claire could even open her mouth. “Any shame you put on her will reflect on you.”

“I’m aware, Mother.” Loki sighed heavily, rolling his eyes behind her back.

“Good. Remember that. You can practice while I speak to the servants about the flowers.” Frigga turned away and left the two alone for the second time since their meeting.

“Come, this way,” Loki offered his hand politely to Claire. She accepted his hand and let him guide her to a chair. He stood behind the chair and held it in place while she sat. “Do you have a preference?”

“Not really,” Claire replied as Loki’s long fingers began combing through her hair, deftly gathering the strands to make a braid. “You were kidding about the ugly part right?” she asked as he began sectioning off her hair.

“Perhaps,” Loki teased. “Even if I wasn’t, you wouldn’t be able to remove it without causing a stir.”

“Of course not. Wouldn’t want to offend someone with my hair style,” Claire quipped, hissing when Loki’s finger got tangled in her hair and pulled it. He said nothing, only soothing her scalp with his probing fingers as he worked quickly. He was already finished with the first section and had started gathering the other half of her hair in his hands to section and braid. “You’re good at that.” Claire complimented as he began braiding, pulling her hair tight to make it clean. She wasn’t surprised to find she enjoyed the feeling of his hands in her hair.

“I’ve always been good with my hands,” Loki replied softly, putting both braids together at the back of her head. “All finished,” he announced. “Normally this would be tied with a band, but for now I’ve bound it with seidr instead.”

“That’s probably better. That way it won’t come loose or fall out.” Claire replied, reaching up to glide her fingertips along the braid.

“Indeed,” Loki hummed, manifesting a small mirror for her with a wave of his hands. “Here.” He held it up for her to look into.

“Thank you,” she flashed him a smile, to which he gave a feeble return. “This looks lovely,” She praised, combing her fingers through the hair he’d left loose. The thin braids started at her temples, gently sloping down to where they met at the back of her head. It almost looked like a halo, and Claire loved it. “Could you do it like this? Please?”

“Of course.” Loki agreed, making the mirror vanish. “I’ll need to let that out before we leave,” He reminded her as she got to her feet. “Let me see the front first.” Claire turned to face him, giving a shy smile as their eyes met. Loki gave another clipped smile in return, raising his hands to inspect the braid’s appearance.

“How do I look?” Claire asked as he smoothed her hair. He gave a small snort as he adjusted the hair at her temples.

“You look…” Beautiful. She was a vision, her lips full and luscious beneath the soft lavender lip paint she wore. With mere inches between them, he could easily lean down and taste her at last- finally claim her as his as the braid proclaimed her to be. “As if you belong.” he finally murmured.

“Thank you,” her lavender lips curled into a cheeky grin as she gazed up at him. “Was that so difficult to say?”

“I’m truly suffering from the indignity.” Loki said placidly.

“Oh dear, however will you survive?” Claire returned sarcastically.

“That remains to be seen,” Loki sighed aloofly. “Turn please, so I can undo your braid.”

“Fine,” Claire said, turning her back to him and waiting patiently as he unwove the braids and combed his fingers through her hair to straighten it. “Thank you.” Loki hummed his reply as Frigga returned.

“All finished?” she asked. When the engaged couple nodded in unison, she smiled. “Excellent. Shall we rehearse?”

“If we must.” Loki sighed. Claire shot him a glare and Frigga stepped in to diffuse the tension before they could begin to argue.

“Don’t be rude Loki, it simply isn’t the correct way to address your fiancé.”

“I wasn’t speaking to her.”

“To me then. You know better,” Frigga scolded. “Off you go, to your place.” She ordered, giving Loki a small push toward the grand stairs in front of the throne.

“I’m assuming I’ll be walking down the aisle.”

“Correct. Your uncle will escort you but for now we will pretend,” Frigga replied, offering Claire her arm. Claire looped her arm around hers and Frigga guided her toward the aisle. “Once you reach the stairs, he will hand you off like so.” She released Claire to allow her to take Loki’s outstretched hand. Loki entwined their fingers, as was expected, and Frigga walked up the stairs to stand a few steps above them. “Odin will oversee the ceremony from here. Thor will stand at Loki’s side, and Sif at yours. They will be responsible for holding your swords and rings both before and after they are exchanged.”

“Got it.”

“It is very, very important that you or Loki do not drop the swords or rings. To do so would cast a great pall upon the marriage and the alliance by default.”

“No pressure or anything.” Claire muttered to herself.

“You will do fine dear,” Frigga assured her. “Once you have exchanged swords and rings, the Gothi will bind your hands and guide you through exchanging your vows.”

“The Gothi?”

“Our spiritual leader,” Frigga explained. “On your wedding day, he will bless you both at the start of the ceremony. Once the ceremony is finished and Loki has bound your hair you will proceed back up the aisle to the balcony where we will officially present you to the people. After that is the celebratory feast, followed by a second feast the following morning and the presentation of gifts.”

“Sounds easy enough, assuming no one drops anything.”

“There will be opportunity for you each to practice prior to the actual ceremony,” Frigga said comfortingly. “Do you have any questions?”

“No, everything makes sense.”

“Wonderful. We will do another practice closer to the ceremony but I must dismiss you both now. Loki, you are due at the tailor. Claire, you have lessons to get to. You and I shall go to the marketplace later this afternoon.” Frigga winked at Claire behind Loki’s back, which Claire found amusing. What could Frigga be planning?

“Thank you mother,” Loki nodded politely to Frigga before lifting Claire’s hand to his lips. “My lady.” he kissed her knuckles, his gaze smoldering as Claire’s innards fizzled. Barely containing her satisfied smile, Frigga walked down the stairs ahead of them. Loki helped her down the stairs, clutching her hand the entire time.

Ahead of them, Frigga was chattering about their respective agendas for the rest of the day.

“Are you nervous?” Loki asked softly.

“A little. I’m kinda worried I’ll drop something.” Claire admitted. Loki’s gaze softened as he squeezed her hand.

“It will be alright,” he promised. “There is nothing you could do that would bring more shame on me that I haven’t done myself.” Claire’s heart dropped and she clasped his hand tighter.

“Loki-”

“I must go. Enjoy your day, my lady.”

“See you tonight?” Claire asked softly. Loki seemed surprised by her question, his eyes going wide as his dark brows shot up. The corners of his mouth turned up after a beat, and Claire swore she saw the tips of his ears turn pink. He nodded, dropping her hand before walking out of the throne room.

~~~~

Claire waited on pins and needles for Loki to arrive. She’d already added more notes to her folder and hidden it away again. She’d had a busy day of lessons and espionage, having broken into Fandral’s quarters earlier in the afternoon while everyone was at tea.

When she’d been dismissed from her last lesson early...the opportunity couldn’t have been better if she’d engineered it herself. It had been ridiculously easy to get access to Fandral’s apartment. Not one person had questioned why she was there- they’d simply said he was out and would return soon, did she want to wait?

Yes, yes she did! But she was so thirsty, could someone bring her a drink?

Fandral’s chamber maid had practically fallen over herself to fulfill the future princess’ request, leaving Claire alone in Fandral’s apartment without a second thought.

Once alone, Claire had found Fandral’s ‘love nest’, as he called it, and got to work. The itching powder had found new lodgings in his trousers and undergarments, though Claire did her best to avoid touching them too much. Who knew what Fandral got up to; she was not about to catch space cooties over a prank. All Claire knew was that he’d systematically fucked his way through her staff, and only Ragna had yet to fall prey to his advances.

She didn’t fault her staff- far from it. If both parties consented, Claire couldn’t give a fuck what people got up to. It was Fandral’s gloating that she hated. His chest seemed to puff up more with each conquest, and he’d strut about the palace like a proud rooster.

That will take him down a peg or two. Claire cackled to herself as she slipped back out of Fandral’s apartment. She did feel a slight twinge of guilt for misleading his chamber maid, but as luck would have it, she’d crossed her path as she was leaving.

“Oh! Your Majesty!” the woman had curtsied. “Your drink-?”

“I’ve got to go, unfortunately- can’t say no to the queen! But why don’t you take some time for yourself and enjoy it?” Claire suggested. “In fact, I’ve left a surprise in your master’s chambers. I’d hate to spoil it for him, so don’t say anything to him, will you please?”

Claire had made off without waiting for the woman to respond, blending seamlessly into the crowd outside the council chambers only to be confronted by Yrsa.

She and the other young ladies of court had descended on Claire like a pack of wolves, the ever-present sour look on Yrsa’s face making her look constipated.

“Dear me, Lady Claire, where is your escort?” Yrsa asked with false concern.

“I don’t need an escort to walk down the hall.”

“You really ought to be more careful.” Yrsa chided from behind her fan.

“Excuse me?”

“I only mean that there are already rumors about you,” Yrsa gave her a simpering smile. “About your virtue...or perhaps lack of it.”

“Are you trying to threaten me, Yrsa?” Claire asked. “You think I care what people have to say about me?”

“I simply wish to give advice-”

“Because I don't really care what any of you think about me. So let me give you some advice-if you're going to threaten someone, make sure you have leverage.” the other young ladies behind Yrsa had broken into frenzied whispers behind their fans, the gleeful promise of scandal written on their faces. Yrsa closed her fan with a snap

“It's beyond fathoming that the Allfather would wed his son to a diseased whore-”

“It hurts, doesn't it? Being second rate to a diseased whore like me.” Claire grinned as Yrsa's face turned splotchy red with anger.

“How dare you-”

“Careful Yrsa,” Claire replied flatly. “I could break you in half and not blink twice.”

Now, as Claire waited for Loki to make his nightly appearance, she wondered if she’d overstepped. Obviously she wanted to curb stomp Yrsa into the dirt, but she probably shouldn’t have been so obvious about it.

A knock on her door pulled her from her thoughts, and Claire rushed to answer it. As expected, the now familiar maid stood outside beside Gunnar, bearing the usual tray. Claire let her inside, waving to Gunnar as she closed the door.

“You are entirely too familiar with your guard.” Loki muttered as he set the tray on the table.

“Oh stop it,” Claire rolled her eyes as she sat beside him on the couch. Loki had stopped asking permission to sit, which she took as a sign of their growing intimacy. “Gunnar’s nice.”

“Is he now?”

“Yes, he is. Is that really what you want to talk about tonight?” Claire asked sharply. Loki grunted, sinking back into the couch cushions.

“No. I’d rather ask how princess lessons are going.” Loki knocked his knee against hers.

“They’re fine, I guess. I still hate sewing,” Claire replied as she turned to face him. “Hey, what was all the hubbub in the council meeting today? I stopped by but there was a huge crowd.”

“There was a rather heated debate today; I imagine that is why. We were discussing a new tax policy that would increase taxes on our poorest citizens.”

“That seems counter intuitive.”

“You would think so, wouldn’t you? But of course, many of the council members are short-sighted and see only what they want to see. They didn’t enjoy being told that their idea was stupid.”

“Is that why everyone was so upset?”

“I imagine,” Loki grinned. “I told you there isn’t much you can do to shame me that I haven’t already done myself,” Claire felt like there was more to it than that- people here didn’t just dislike Loki, they hated him. What Claire couldn’t figure out was why. Sure the guy had done some bad things and he was the kind of the kind of person others loved to hate, but there was something else. Something she wasn’t seeing. “Shall we review your lessons?” he asked, unveiling the snacks he’d brought along with him. A bowl of almonds, pillowy rolls and fluffy butter, and decadent candied fruit that glistened in the flickering light from the fire. Claire reached for a handful of almonds, but Loki pulled the treats just out of reach.

“Hey, what gives?”

“If you want a snack, you will answer my questions correctly,” Loki proposed, grinning when Claire scoffed. “First question...”

They passed several hours together, Loki rewarding her with the succulent treats each time she answered him correctly. When Loki was satisfied, they fell into easy conversation, discussing philosophy, and their hobbies.

Claire had just polished off the last of the candied fruit when Loki sighed and sat up.

“I should go. You need to rest.”

“I’m not tired.” Claire said stubbornly.

“You say that now, but you will likely think different in the morning,” Loki chuckled as he got to his feet. Claire stood up with him, wishing he didn’t have to go. Loki smiled at her, his thumb coming up to wipe her bottom lip clean. He brought the digit to his mouth to suck it clean, spurring a blaze of heat between her thighs. “Sleep well.” his gaze lingered on her lips for a heated moment, before a wave of green enveloped him and the maid stood in his place. She left without another word, leaving Claire alone to her frustration.

Five days until the wedding

Claire slipped out of the palace into the cool morning air, dodging the guards and making for the marketplace. The sun was just beginning to rise and the market was blissfully empty, so Claire was free to run as long and hard as she wanted.

She did a full circuit of the market and was just turning back toward the palace when she rounded a corner and hit a brick wall.

“Ow, son of a bitch!” Claire cried as she landed on the hard ground.

“I beg your pardon?” A familiar voice scoffed above her. Of course.

“Just an expression,” she groaned, taking the hand her offered and getting to her feet. She massaged her throbbing shoulder with her left hand, wincing as the pain radiated down her arm. “Sorry for running into you.”

“It's no matter,” Loki said. “Are you hurt?”

“Just scraped up, I think. Why are you up so early?”

“I wanted some peace and quiet,” Loki said pointedly. “Why are you up so early? Where in Hel’s name is your escort?”

“Somewhere inside the palace I'd imagine.”

“You shouldn't be alone-”

“Dude it's fine I can handle myself.” Claire said sharply as she began to dust off her leggings.

“Clearly,” Loki rolled his eyes, his next question dying on his tongue as she brushed off the seat of her tight pants. “What are you wearing?” He managed to ask as his eyes trailed after the motion of her hand along the contours of her backside. The material was so tight it was indecent, molded to her sculpted thighs and rump like a second skin.

“Um...leggings?” Claire replied.

“Are these...” Loki seemed to fumble for his words. “Are these typical garb on Midgard?”

“For some. They're flexible and breathe well. And they're soft. Wanna feel?” Claire couldn't help but tease the man, well aware he'd been staring at her ass. His eyes darted up to hers, the sheer desire in his gaze slamming into her.

“I shouldn't,” his hands fisting at his sides even as he denied himself. He gave her another heated once over, making her pussy clench. Claire knew the leggings were tight, and absently wondered if Loki could see the effect he had on her. “We should- we should find your escort and get you to the healer.”

“So responsible,” Claire tsked, shaking her head. “Okay, your loss.”

“We are less than a week away from our nuptials, my lady, I think I shall survive,” Loki didn't sound as convinced as he wanted to. Claire eyed him skeptically, seeing right through him. “Who gave you permission to be out this early?”

“No one said I couldn't be,” Claire shrugged. “I wanted to go for a run, so I did.”

“Indeed,” Loki hummed in amusement. “Off with you,” he jutted his chin toward the palace. “I will follow behind to make sure you find your escort.”

“You just want to stare at my ass.” Claire argued, making him laugh.

“Perhaps,” Loki’s tongue darted out to moisten his lower lip as his gaze traveled down her body. Gods, how supple would her flesh be if he reached out to touch her? He met her eyes at last, finding her watching him expectantly. “Do you object?” Claire shook her head.

“No, no, just pointing it out,” she grinned, turning toward the palace to walk back. “Look all you want.” Gods, the view was even better from behind. The material favored her exceptionally, so much so that he could watch every delectable inch of skin and sinew move as she walked ahead of him. The early morning sun caught on her hair, pairing with the mist to give her an ethereal glow. With each stride her hair bounced, the strands falling just past her shoulders and occasionally allowing him to see the muscles in her athletic frame. Loki was not used to seeing defined muscles on a woman’s body- most women he’d met were soft and strong (except for Sif, who he had never found attractive)- but he was quickly learning he enjoyed it. She was going to be the death of him.

Loki cursed as he tripped over a loose rock and briefly lost his footing.

“Doing okay back there?” Claire glanced back knowingly.

“I’m fine.” Based on the laughter Loki could hear from ahead, he did not sound convincing.

Just as he’d suspected, Claire’s frantic chamber maid awaited them at the gate. Loki watched Claire and her maid disappear into the palace before he stepped inside himself, going a different direction from them to his chambers. It was the smart thing to do, he told himself, but it was the opposite of what he wanted.

It was torture, quite frankly, and her absence only aggravated him more. Loki was loathe to reduce Claire to a sexual object, as he’d been taught far better; but it was proving difficult. Annoying she may be, but his future wife was a point of fascination he wanted to explore exhaustively. His cock throbbed angrily in agreement, and Loki’s scowl deepened. He was so looking forward to a form of release that didn’t involve his hand- his head swam with visions of Claire in those leggings. The delectable, pert roundness of her backside, the thick muscles of her thighs that practically begged for the squeeze of his hands.

Gods, he’d never seen such a garment. How is it possible she could be completely covered and yet so obscenely bare? Loki stalked into his chambers, angrily making his way to his bed as he stripped off his clothes.

He regretted not taking her up on her offer to feel. He had seen the curves of her figure, seen glimpses of her build, felt the pressure of her thighs against his. He wanted more. He should have taken the chance when offered it.

A choked groan escaped him as his fingers wrapped around his cock. Red and angry, the heated flesh demanded satisfaction; the throb of desire already setting him ablaze from within.

His thumb circled the head of his cock, making him hiss. Already he could imagine Claire on her knees for him, her hands bracing on the meat of his thighs as she lavished his cock with attention. Would she be playful, driving him mad with kitten licks until he begged for mercy? Or would she take him in his entirety, wrapping him between those enchanting lips of hers? Gods, he could practically feel the heat of her mouth now.

He worked himself faster as he thought of her naked and waiting. What sounds would she make as he licked her open? Would she beg him for release? Cry out as he slipped inside her velvety walls? He couldn’t wait to make her fall apart; to feel her nails dig into his flesh as he finally marked her as his.

Loki gave a shout as he spilled his seed, the pleasure driving him to his knees. His fingers clawed the lavish bed covers as he slowed the pumping of his hand, drawing out his pleasure. He tightened his grip, spilling the last drops of his seed with a final groan.

His legs felt weak as he tried to stand. Loki forced himself up, getting rid of the mess he’d made with his seidr before retrieving clean clothes from his armoire. Loki freshened up, dressing in the clean clothes and setting the soiled ones aside.

With his head finally clear- well...clearer- Loki sought out his mother.

~~~~

“Loki!” Frigga brightened as he stalked into her sun room, full of her handmaidens as well as some of the crones who chaperoned his and Claire’s excursions. “I did not expect to see you today. How do you fare?”

“Fine,” he said shortly. “May I have a moment please?”

“Leave us,” Frigga said immediately, waiting for the room to clear before she got to her feet and went to him. “What is it?”

“She is driving me mad.” Loki sank into a freshly-vacant chair with all the heaviness of the world upon him.

“I thought you were getting along quite well.”

“It is not that,” Loki shook his head. “I cannot stop thinking about her.”

“Oh, darling, is that all?” Frigga burst into a peal of laughter. “That is a good thing!” Loki groaned, his head falling into his hands as Frigga patted his shoulder consolingly. “Be patient, my darling. Your wedding day will be here before you know it.”

“If I don’t lose my mind first,” Loki groused from behind his hands. “Moreso than I already have.”

“Would it please you to know your bride shares your frustration?” Loki looked at her between his fingers.

“She does?” he asked skeptically.

“Is it so hard to believe?” Frigga chuckled. “You are handsome, intelligent-”

“Damaged,” Loki grimaced. “A stain upon this family.”

“That is simply not true.” Loki shot to his feet in anger.

“It is what Fath- Odin said. I am but an albatross about the neck of Asgard.”

“It is true that your strengths do not lie in the same realms as Odin or Thor, but that does not make your strengths any lesser,” Frigga said gently. “Both you and Claire will be vital to guiding Asgard into the future.” Loki looked up in surprise, confusion clear on his face.

“What do you mean? How could that possibly be true?” he scoffed. “Have you foreseen this?”

“Loki-”

“Have you?”

“I have,” Frigga relented. “I saw it the day she arrived,” she glanced down, a secretive smile gracing her features. “But I shall say no more,” she wrapped Loki’s arm around hers, giving a gentle tug. “Instead, you shall escort me to an early tea, and I shall distract you by telling you about my courtship with your father.”

“Ugh, Mother-” Loki groaned as she pulled him from the room.

~~~~

Claire returned from her run sweaty and ready for a bath. After assuring Ragna for the tenth time that she was fine, the woman scurried away to get a breakfast tray for Claire.

From her bedroom she grabbed fresh clothes and a pair of satin panties. Her run in with Loki had left her shivery in the best way. She’d felt his eyes on her the entire way back.

He wanted her.

She could still feel the heat of his gaze as she put her fresh clothes down, trailing her fingers over her clothes to heighten the shivery sparks coursing through her. Her clit throbbed with need, drawing a whimper from deep in her throat.

There was no way she could function like this.

Claire returned to her bedroom, grabbing her favorite toy from deep in her personal bag. She took care to lock the bathroom door behind her; she didn’t fancy anyone walking in.

She started the water, stripping off her soiled clothes as the tub filled with steaming water. Claire put her toy within reach before stepping into the water. She freshened up quickly, her fingers dipping below her navel to circle her clit as she leaned her head back against the stone ledge. She imagined it was Loki’s fingers exploring her body, taking her lower lip between her teeth as she whimpered. Her fingers moved lower, teasing her entrance before she worked them inside to stroke her G-spot.

Pleasure surged throughout her body as her sex grew plump with desire. Claire panted as she brought her feet up to the stone bench she sat on, one hand working her clit as her other grabbed the toy and brought it under the water.

It was basic, as far as dildos went. Basic, but realistic, and reliable. It always got the job done, the veins stroking her inner walls just right as it filled her perfectly. Claire wondered if Loki’s cock would be just as satisfying as she circled her entrance with the tip. She worked it in slowly, her legs trembling with each thrust. Her other hand worked in tandem on her clit, stroking in sync with each shallow thrust of the dildo.

Claire moaned aloud as she thrust the dildo deep inside her, her hips canting as she sought more friction. She couldn’t help but imagine Loki between her thighs, crying out as her walls clenched around the dildo. She pressed her clit harder, stroking roughly as she began fucking herself in earnest.

Tension was building in her hips, the familiar pull in her belly growing stronger. She wanted it to be Loki fucking her senseless and in a matter of days, it would be. God, she wanted his hands on her, his mouth, his cock driving her over the edge as he pounded her into the bed-

Claire barely contained the strangled cry her orgasm forced from her. Her fingers worked her clit frantically, her hips bucking into the dildo as she spasmed, working the last vestiges of pleasure from her body.

“Fuck,” she pulled the dildo free, sighing with the flare of pleasure. She set the toy on the ledge, stretching out in the hot water. Her eyes slipped closed as she relaxed. Not long after she’d sunk deeper into the water, she heard Ragna’s voice outside the bathroom and a moment later she was knocking on the door. “I’ll be right out!” she called.

~~~~

After barely having time to eat her breakfast, Claire rushed to meet with her instructors, filling her morning with mind-numbing drills. She was released around noon, and made her way to the stables after lunch. She was getting better at riding, and as no one had come to collect her for a fitting or a lesson or a scolding when she’d returned her horse to the stable, she decided to use the rest of the afternoon to visit the training yard. Sif’s invitation was too good to pass up, and Claire could use some exercise.

~~~~

Claire's eyes went comically wide as she spotted Loki across the training yard. She’d been sparring with Sif for at least an hour now, and hadn’t expected to see him there.

“Fuck me.” She muttered under her breath. He had no right being so- so...HOT.

“It is hot today.” Sif observed as she fanned herself.

“Tell me about it.” Claire's throat was dry as the Sahara as she eyed her future husband. Apparently he'd had the same complaint as Sif, having shed his standard leather uniform and parading about shirtless. His long hair was gathered in a bun, and stray tendrils swayed with him as he moved to strike his opponent. Claire's fingers dug into the staff she carried as her eyes trailed over the defined lines of muscle laid out in front of her like a feast. Defined shoulders tapered into luscious biceps and veined forearms, his skin dappled with sweat that made him glisten in the afternoon sunlight. He probably smelled amazing. Hot. Sticky. Lickable.

God damn it, he was a cinnamon bun.

It was just plain rude of him to be walking around all nonchalant when he looked that good. The sculpted muscles of his back were smooth and supple like marble, flexing beautifully under his skin as he moved. Up until now, she hadn't much considered what Loki liked like under all the leather. Okay that was a lie, but she hadn't really thought about it in terms of sex. They were going to get married and have babies, and she found him attractive enough not to complain (too much). As they'd gotten to know each other better, she'd learned of his reserved nature and his bookish ways. The man was a nerd.

A very hot nerd, but a nerd all the same.

But this? How was she supposed to look him in the eye knowing he looked like this underneath all the metal and yummy leather?!

Shamelessly, of course. She couldn't let him get the upper hand, and he'd probably never stop gloating if he knew how he affected her. But still. It was positively-

“Indecent.” She sighed.

“Lady Claire.”

“Huh-what?”

“Do you need a minute?” Sif asked teasingly as she followed her gaze to Loki.

“No! Shut up.” Sif snickered as she looked back at Loki, but Claire ignored her as Loki and his sparring partner began fighting their way toward where Claire and Sif stood. Others in the training yard moved aside as the pair made their way across the field. Loki faced her now and good grief, the heat was suddenly unbearable. His back half was a sight to behold, but good lord his chest...Claire wanted to faceplant in his pecs. She watched his obliques flex and bunch as he chased his opponent with fluid movements, his eyes locked on the poor man like a hunter watches his prey.

Claire wanted to be the prey in his gaze. She wanted to sit on those strong thighs and sink her teeth in the thick cords of muscle at his neck. She wanted to trace the lines of his adonis belt with her tongue until he writhed with need. Maybe he'd beg. The man was thick, like a triple stacked burger and Claire suddenly felt starved.

“Fucking hell I wanna bite him.”

“Um-” Sif stepped away from her as she groaned with want. “Do you want me to leave?”

“No! I mean- I don’t know.”

“Perhaps you should go. You're supposed to meet the seamstress soon I think.” Sif had stepped in as Claire’s maid-of-honor. Who else was she going to ask? Sif was her closest friend here.

“It can wait.” Claire could think of a much better use of her time.

“What are you doing?” Sif asked in a bored tone as Claire gripped her staff tightly.

“I'm gonna fight him.”

“Lady Claire don't-” Claire had already made up her mind, side-stepping into the bout just as Loki's opponent passed her. She stepped in fluidly, fending off Loki's attacks and catching him off guard. His face blanched in confusion, as he wasn't expecting to see her until later. He grabbed her staff to stop the onslaught, stopping her short.

“Aren't you supposed to be somewhere else?” he grinned. From this close, Claire could see the wisps of hair on his chest.

“This looked more fun.” Claire shrugged, hooking her foot around his leg and sending him off balance. She let go of the staff and shoved at him, palming the defined muscles of his chest and knocking him to the ground.

“I'm impressed. You're fast,” He swiped her legs out from beneath her, sending her sprawling into the dirt beside him. “Not fast enough, it seems.”

“I'm plenty fast.” Claire insisted.

“By all means,” he chuckled. “Prove it.”

“You might regret that.” Claire warned as he helped her to her feet. She was smart, Loki thought, not to take her eyes off him. Her staff forgotten on the ground, she struck out first, aiming a punch at his rib cage which he blocked open-handed.

Claire aimed a kick at his torso but he caught her ankle in his hand, attempting to throw her off balance. Claire pivoted and aimed at his head with her other leg, spinning over his head when he ducked. She landed in the dirt, shooting up with a speed that impressed him before she attempted another punch. He batted it away easily, giving her an opening. Before Loki knew it, she’d all but climbed him like a tree and hooked her thighs around his neck. He hit the ground hard while she landed lightly on her feet.

Spry little thing.

Loki snatched her foot, sending her sprawling as he pinned her hands to the ground. Her hands fought uselessly against his strong hold and she growled as she realized she was trapped.

Claire refused to admit she enjoyed his weight pinning her down. Their short bout had drawn a crowd, eager to see the younger prince and the future princess battle it out. Loki loomed over her, his weight keeping her on the ground.

“Do you yield?” The smug bastard had the nerve to smile at her!

“You'd like that, wouldn't you?” Loki laughed at her indignant tone which just infuriated her more. To add insult to injury, she’d been right- he smelled amazing. He smelled like earth and the tang of sweat.

“Nothing would please me more.”

“Fine, but I expect a rematch.”

“You are a menace,” Loki scoffed. “Very well, you shall have it.” He released her from his grip, chuckling at the annoyed look on her face.

“Well this was...fun,” Claire blew her hair out of her face as she tried to tame it. “I should probably go. I was supposed see the seamstress for my final fitting.”

“And you decided to spar with me instead?” Loki chuckled, jutting his chin toward the waiting Sif. “Off with you, menace.” Claire snickered, fingers combing through her wild hair still.

“See you later, mischief.” Loki watched her leave, still surprised by the skill she’d shown.

~~~~

There were no lessons tonight, but Loki showed up anyway. It had become so ingrained in her daily routine that Claire missed him when he didn’t make an appearance.

“I've had an idea.” Loki announced as they settled on her couch.

“What's that?”

“As you are so new to Asgard, I should give you a tour of your new home.”

“I've had a tour, Loki. Several of them.”

“Ah, yes, the boring, curated, stifled tours my mother has put together,” Loki rolled his eyes. “I meant after dark,” he grinned wolfishly. “No doubt my mother would have sequestered you from our nightlife.”

“That's true. I suppose it's too dangerous for little ol' me to handle,” Claire rolled her eyes. “I hate that people treat me like I'm made of glass.”

“Do you trust me?” Loki asked, eyeing her expectantly. The midnight breeze wafted seductively through the open balcony doors, calling them like a siren out into the night. Claire was itching for adventure, to see the real Asgard. She trusted Loki to show it to her.

“Yes.” His face split into a beautiful smile and he offered his hand.

“Come, the night awaits.”

Loki led her down deserted, cramped hallways and out into the dark night through a back door which he explained was only used by the staff. Together they traveled the dimly lit streets toward the sounds of merrymaking, passing by multiple mounds of fabric that Claire only recognized from her time on Earth. Claire had been so wrapped up in her own experience in Asgard, she hadn’t given much thought to the people she’d seen on her way to the palace.

“There is a houseless population here?” Claire asked heavily, her guilt for only thinking of herself growing with each step.

“There are a number of displaced persons in Asgard,” Loki replied. “They are called hjemløs here, someone without a home.”

“And no one helps them?”

“How would one help them?” Loki asked. “It is a very complex problem.” He led her down a dark street. The noise was louder now, and Claire could see the fringe of a crowd of people in the distance.

“It’s complicated at home too. I always wished I could do something about it,” They’d grown closer to the crowd, and Claire could almost read the merchant sign above the throng of drunks. “Wait,” Claire stopped Loki with a hand on his arm. “Won't we be recognized?” He would be for sure.

“You underestimate me, little mortal. We look the same to each other, but everyone else will see a glamour. Our secret is safe.”

“Wicked. Okay, let's go.” The tavern was the noisiest place she'd been since her arrival in Asgard, with people crowded in to the rafters. Boisterous laughter and rowdy conversations came from all sides, oddly enough making Claire feel at home. She was used to this kind of environment back on Earth. It amused her that people seemed to be the same wherever you went.

“The mead here is excellent. Unfortunately they don't serve the wine you're so fond of.” Loki teased, chuckling when Claire groaned. Pressed close together as they were, Claire felt his laughter more than she heard it, the rich sound lost in the sea of noise.

“Ugh, don't say wine.” Claire groaned. She hadn't imbibed nearly as much of the delicious drink since her first night in Asgard. While she wasn’t exactly embarrassed, the headache wasn’t quite worth the overindulgence.

“Wine,” Loki cackled, laughing harder when Claire gave him a shove. His shoulder collided with another patron, the hulking man roaring with outrage as he turned to glare at Loki. Good grief, the man was like two Thors put together. Claire regretted only bringing the one knife. “Apologies,” Loki said smoothly. “My mistake.” The man said something Claire didn't understand, making himself look bigger. A flash of green clouded the mans face, and he blinked in confusion before speaking softly and moving aside so she and Loki could pass.

“What did you do?” Claire asked as Loki pulled her along. “Did you Obliviate him?”

“Did I what?” Loki asked. “I simply persuaded him to let us pass.”

“Yeah okay,” Claire scoffed. “But really-”

“We are not here to start a brawl,” Loki replied as he secured them a table, holding one of the chairs out for her. As she settled into it, he loomed close enough for her to hear him clearly. “I thought this would be a good way for us to get to know each other, and we can't very well do that if we are busy fighting the entire tavern.”

“I think we could take 'em,” Claire grinned as Loki pushed in her chair. “Thank you.” She said as he took the seat beside hers.

“Of course,” Loki replied as a barmaid approached. “Two meads please,” he said, pulling a small scroll of parchment from somewhere. “Now then-”

“Wait, did you actually bring a written list of things you wanted to ask me?” Claire asked as she spied the scribbling on the paper.

“It helps to organize my thoughts.”

“That's adorable,” Claire giggled. “What do you want to know?” Loki leaned closer as he flattened the paper and Claire was amused by the eager look on his face, as though he were a scientist interrogating a new discovery.

“I wish to know what has happened on Midgard whilst I’ve been imprisoned. Who is your current world leader? What meager squabbles are your nations fighting about now? What-”

“Hang on, dude, take a breath,” Claire snickered. “We don’t have a ‘world leader’- every country has their own leaders, though I’m sure the president of my country would like to think he’s the world leader, but really he’s just an asshat.”

“Is he not a good leader?”

“Good?!” Claire laughed raucously. “I’m sorry it’s just-” another peal of laughter escaped her as Loki looked on with concern. Claire cleared her throat and took a drank of her mead. “No, he is not a good leader.” she wiped the moisture from the corner of her eye, her laughter still fading.

“Yet he is...in charge?”

“Unfortunately,” Claire said bitterly. “I’ll never understand how someone like him won. He’s the worst kind of person imaginable.”

“How so?” Loki asked.

“Oh god, where to start,” Claire snorted. “He’s arrogant, sexist, racist, he makes fun of people who are disabled, poor, not white. He’s been accused of rape by multiple women and he brags about it,” she snarled. “He spends more time golfing than actually working- oh god, he hasn’t been invited to the wedding, has he?”

“Most likely,” Loki muttered. “Many of your worlds leaders have been.”

“Oh no,” Claire sighed. “If anyone is likely to start a war between Earth and Asgard, it would be him. Can we un-invite him?

“Not without causing an incident,” Loki bristled. “Though with what you’ve just said…” he shook his head. “His leadership-” Claire gave a sarcastic laugh.

“His idea of leadership is spending enough money to end homelessness in the country on a military parade for himself,” she said scornfully. “He’s never even been in the military.” Loki’s brows furrowed as he considered her words, gesturing for two more pints of mead as the server passed by.

“How is this allowed?”

“He’s a giant man baby; what he wants, he gets. He really is a piece of shit.”

“Odin’s beard,” Loki muttered. “I would have been a better ruler than this buffoon.”

“Is that so?” Claire chuckled. “It wouldn’t be difficult; you at least have brains.”

“Indeed I do,” Loki mused. “What of his policies?”

“Do you really want to sit here and talk politics?” Claire asked as they received another round of mead. “Or do you want to ask me more personal questions off your nerdy little list?”

“Rude,” Loki scoffed. Claire giggled at the affronted face he made. “Do not mock my list.”

“Just ask your questions!” Claire laughed.

“Alright, alright,” Loki’s eyes scanned the list, curiosity sparking in his eyes as he made his choice. “If you could do anything with your life, what would it be?”

“Isn’t this kind of a moot question?”

“You said-”

“Yeah, but I can’t do anything with my life but this,” Claire argued. “Isn’t is kind of...I don’t know, sad, to think about doing something else?” Something flickered in Loki’s expression and he glanced down at the table between them.

“Shall I tell you what I would do?”

“If you weren’t a prince?” Loki nodded. “What?”

“I would teach.” That was not what Claire would have guessed. She didn’t really know what she would have guessed if forced.

“What would you teach?”

“Anything. Everything,” Loki shrugged. “Knowledge is so vital, for all aspects of life. A good education can make all the difference in one’s life. But more than that, a teacher is someone who is valued, who is trusted, is essential,” he said passionately. “There is no field, no pursuit that is not touched by education. To teach is to shape the future-”

Hearing Loki speak so passionately was endearing. The depth of his conviction was obvious and charming. It was clear that Loki had bonded with a former teacher, and it was nice to know that was a universal experience.

“I’ve said too much.” Loki’s voice brought her back, and Claire felt guilty for getting lost in her thoughts instead of listening.

“No, not at all,” Claire shook her head. “I think it’s amazing how passionate you are about it. I can’t really say I feel that passionate about anything except-” she blanched at the thought of her mother.

“Except?” Loki prompted. Claire wanted to answer, she wanted to return his openness, but she swallowed the words instead. The wound was too deep, too tender to risk sharing. “My hope for this venture was that we could be more open with one another,” Though he spoke gently, disappointment colored Loki’s words and Claire felt horrible. It was obvious he was trying, and that’s what she’d asked for.

“I’m sorry. I want to share, it’s just...it’s very painful still, and I don’t like talking about it.” Loki regarded her coolly, a slight frown wrinkling the corners of his mouth.

“I can respect that. I hope that someday you will trust me with whatever it is. I shall have mercy on you,” he relented. “If you answer a different question.”

“Alright, fine.” Loki’s long fingers drummed on the tabletop as he perused his list for something to ask. Claire could practically see the gears turning in his head.

“This...Mateo you mentioned in the market...did you love him?”

“What? Pass,” Claire scoffed, laughing at the abrupt change of topic. “Why do you ask?”

“I am curious and wish to learn more about you,” Loki explained. “May I continue?”

“No way!” Claire laughed. “If you want answers, you'd better be giving some of your own. Quid pro quo, Clarice.” she did her best Hannibal Lecter impression, complete with the sound effect.

“Are you ill?” Loki asked with concern.

“What? No, I'm- never mind, the reference isn't something you'd know.”

“Try me.”

“Okay, ever seen Silence of the Lambs?”

“No.”

“That's where it's from.”

“Is this a novel?”

“It's based on a book, but they made a movie in the 90s. Clarice is one of the characters, and one of the reasons I wanted to be an investigator.” Claire explained.

“You enjoy puzzles,” Loki surmised. “The challenge of solving something.”

“Very much,” Claire grinned, grateful they seemed to be connecting again. “So do you do this often?” she asked.

“Escape the palace, you mean? Pretend to be someone else?”

“Yeah.”

“In my youth I did it often. Obviously I've not been able to in a long time.”

“Obviously.”

“It is a balm, to escape. To forget.”

“Yeah, I get that.” Claire said softly. She let her eyes drift around the tavern, settling on a group of men wielding axes. There were multiple racks of axes and targets at the end of long lanes.

“Have you ever thrown axes before?” Loki asked. “Would you like to play?”

“Hell yes.” Loki led her over to the farthest lane, away from the crowd of men. Loki pulled two axes from a rack.

“It's similar to archery. Highest points are for hitting the bullseye, lower points for other parts of the target,” He tapped at the numeric symbols on the target before deftly turning one of the axes so the handle faced her. “Ladies first.” Claire took the axe and stood at the throwing line on the floor, hefting the axe to aim.

“Can I ask you a question?”

“Yes, and you may ask another,” Loki quipped playfully, grinning when Claire turned away from the target to glare at him. “What is your question?”

“What is Njord’s deal?” Claire let the axe fly, striking just shy of center. “Clearly he’s a dick, but I can’t figure out why. Does he hate me because I’m human, because I’m a woman, because I’m poor, or all of the above?” she asked as she returned to the table. Loki drank deeply from his mead before moving toward the throwing line.

“Njord is a pompous windbag,” Loki muttered darkly, eyeing the target. “He thinks himself above everyone but the Allfather-” he grunted as he threw the axe, the blade hitting dead center with a satisfying thunk. “-And even that is debatable.”

“Yeah I don't like him,” Claire shook her head as Loki returned to their table. “He came by my apartment to yell at me after- after the glitter incident.” Loki snorted into his drink, choking on his laughter before sobering.

“He did what?”

“Well not yell, but to tell me I'm a disappointment and I'm making him look bad.”

“He should not have done that,” Loki scowled. “He has no right to speak to you that way.”

“That's what I said! I told him he dragged me here and he had to deal with it. I also called him a troll.”

“You did not.” Loki balked, a mischievous grin pulling at his lips.

“Yes I did,” Claire cackled. “Serves him right, the fucker.”

“Did he truly drag you here?” Loki looked unsettled by the idea.

“Not really, it was a figure of speech more than anything,” Claire replied. “I tried to stay out of it, but apparently I was the first choice and he rejected everyone else, so...here I am.”

“Why did you agree?” Loki asked. “For all his pomposity, Njord would have listened if you had said no.”

“Lots of reasons,” Claire shrugged, feeling as though Loki was looking at her under a microscope. “Just sitting in the negotiations I knew whoever came here would have to be willing to advocate for themselves. I have no problem with that. And as much as it makes me want to vomit, I couldn't split up Thor and Jane. You don't have that kind of attachment.”

“I don't?” Claire's stomach dropped at the question.

“Do you?” Loki laughed at her dismayed expression. He came up behind her, his large hands on her hips angling her body toward the target.

“Stay your conscience, little mortal. The closest I've had to someone like you forsook me eons ago.” He was so close she could feel his breath on her neck

“Someone like me?”

“A wife. A significant other.” the deep gruff of his voice gave her goosebumps as he leaned close to speak in her ear.

“Oh.”

“I have always been expected to marry, remember?” he peered at her expectantly.

“Yes.” Loki pulled away, turning his glass in his hands. The muscle in his jaw ticked before he spoke, a haunted look stealing the mirth from his gaze.

“When I was younger, Odin decided it was time. He arranged the match much like he arranged ours, except the girl was a born Asgardian,” he said. “I protested at first but truthfully, it was an advantageous match. Her family was well-esteemed in the court, her father worked with mine so we knew he could be trusted, and she had an excellent upbringing and education.” He scored another bullseye, turning back to the table without celebrating.

“So what happened? If he wanted you married so badly, why am I here and not her?”

“Ah,” Loki chuckled wryly as her axe sank into the target. “I began my...” his long fingers drummed on the table as he searched for the correct wording. “Fall from grace. Yes, that shall suffice. I caused considerable damage on Midgard-”

“New York?”

“Before that.” Loki mumbled into his mead.

“Ah, New Mexico.” Claire replied. Loki nodded.

“When I was brought back to Asgard after New York and imprisoned, she declared she would not have me. As was her right.”

“Oh wow, that wasn't that long ago,” Claire murmured. “I'm sorry.”

“I am not,” Loki said. “She was not a good match except by Odin's metrics.”

“It was Yrsa, wasn't it?” Claire asked. Loki froze, fingers clasped too tightly around his glass.

“Why would you think so?”

“She's been a class A cunt to me ever since I got here. It's not much of a stretch. Did I guess right?”

“You did,” Loki replied airily. “Well done.”

“I see what you mean though,” Claire muttered. Loki said nothing, merely raising an eyebrow questioningly. “Of course she’s not a good match for you; she's a ninny. She’s scared of her own shadow.” Loki’s face split into a wide grin.

“Not like you,” he praised. “You’re quite brave. I daresay fearless.”

“I- was that a compliment?” Claire gaped at him in surprise. “For me?” she asked, laying a hand on her chest as though in shock.

“Do not get used to it,” Loki replied. “I was merely saying...”

“Go on,” Claire urged him. “Say it.”

“No,” Loki balked. “The moment I do, I fear your head shall inflate and thus cause you to be permanently affixed to the ground.”

“Um- excuse me; of the two of us, you are far more arrogant and therefore more likely to collapse under the weight of your own ego,” they both burst into drunken giggles. “My job is to keep you humble by humiliating you at axe throwing.”

“Among other things, I’m sure.”

“Eh, TBD,” Claire said as she threw her axe. The blade sank deep into the bullseye with a satisfying thunk. Claire grinned, eyeing her bullseye with pride. “Not bad for a waif who procures fish.”

“Indeed,” Loki grinned. He met her eyes in the low light of the tavern, and the tension between them skyrocketed. They’d been brushing against each other throughout the game, warmed by drink and each others company. Claire watched him intently, her sapphire eyes dipping from his eyes to his lips and back up. Loki swallowed, trying to tamper his growing desire. “I should return you to your chambers.”

“You don’t have to.”

“I must. You’re drunk.”

“So are you,” Claire argued petulantly, her hand clasping his forearm as she leaned closer. “Couldn’t we just...stay out and drink til dawn?” Her tone suggested she wasn’t talking about drinking.

“And have the entire palace out searching for us?” Loki asked. “I had no idea you had such a lust for danger.”

“I’m an adrenaline junkie through and through,” Claire teased. “I love anything dangerous.” Loki smiled fondly, breaking their heated gaze before he threw caution to the wind.

“I shall keep that in mind for the future.”

#covenant #loki x ofc #loki fic

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lathalea · 4 months

Text

THAUC23: Scattered Through Time

This is a story written by @joyfullynervouscreator and yours truly for this years' THAUC event organized by @fellowshipofthefics. Enjoy!

Moodboard by Lathalea

Scattered Through Time

Relationships: Dís/Dís's Wife Rating: G Warnings: bring tissues Author's notes: Time is merciless. It devours every single thing it meets on its way… almost. Somehow, a handful of memories remained. Once, they formed a kaleidoscope of life, full of shapes and colours. Now, they resemble a handful of stained glass pieces scattered on the bleak fabric of the past.

These are the letters between Dís, daughter of Thràin, and her beloved wife, Víli.

Link to the whole story:

My gleam of golden treasure,

I found your gift; snuck into my pocket during our final soft goodbye? You have a skilled hand with the chisel, even if you claim it not so, and I can only hope to match the swell of love I felt when I pulled the stone from my pocket with one that my words may pull from you.

I miss you, I love you.

I will return to you.

I swear it.

***

My Princess,

My betrothed,

It is such an honour to address you with these words. I am touching my betrothal braid and can feel the pattern you plaited as if it was today and not six days ago!

And now we are apart and I will not see you for three more days… It feels like an eternity. And to think we are to be wedded in seven months! If you were here with me, in the deep mines, you would laugh and call me “too impatient for my own good”. Yes, yes, good things are worth waiting for — but you are the best one, a true treasure, and I simply cannot wait until the day we become One before Mahal the Creator.

I still cannot believe my happiness. Or... do I dare to write “our happiness”, my Princess? Our. You and me. A daughter of kings from a legendary kingdom, a descendant of Durin himself, and a simple Broadbeam lass from the mines. A story I would not believe from the greatest of bards, and yet… Sometimes I wake up in the morning and wonder if I am dreaming a beautiful dream… I am dreaming of the way you smile when you look at me, so tenderly…

… of the afternoons we spend together, when I listen to you speaking of yet another problem with that latest contract and your clever solution…

… of the way your hair shines in the firelight, or the way your eyes light up when I show you a new block of carving stone…

… of the softness of your lips and the way your hand feels in mine as we walk through the newly constructed corridors of your city… our city.

And of the way you whisper my name.

I love, adore, and worship every single thing about you, Dís. My perfect princess.

If it is indeed a dream, I refuse to open my eyes! The only thing I wish to do is to take you in my arms and hold you close until the end of days, my beloved. My wife-to-be.

Forever yours,

Víli

Read the whole story on AO3.

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#thauc23 #dís #lady Dís #dis #princess Dís #Dís x oc #Dís x wife #the hobbit #lotr #fanfic #f/f #f/f fanfic #f/f romance #love letters #ori #balin #happy ending

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dio0no · 1 year

Text

I'm sad right now and all i can think about is abby comforting me. I just finished smoking a cig while crying so IF THIS IS BAD DON'T TELL ME.

Abby fluff with a little angst

cw- reader just being sad and abby taking care of them f!reader x college!Abby

Days like these were the worst for you. The feeling of overwhelming sadness lingering inside of you. All the stress and responsibility from the week piling up on your mind finally deciding to come crushing down on you. All you could do was lay there in the dark crying.

Abby was usually there for you when you got like this, but this time she was busy studying for a very important final she had coming up. The last thing she needed was to worry about you right now. You decided to just skip class and spend the day in bed.

After a couple of hours of trying to spark up again, everything somehow got worse. The sadness getting so unbearable that you weren't even able to stay laying down without choking up on your tears. Your vision being blurry from it all. All you wanted was a hug from abby. You always found comfort in her.

It was starting to get late, you could tell by the orange sun rays illuminating slightly being ur closed curtains. You had stopped crying a while back, not having the energy to continue. You where just sitting in your bed curled up under the blankets. You had not moved off your bed not once. That was until you heard a knock at your door, deciding to ignore it cause you truly didn't have the energy to get up but also cause you weren't expecting anybody.

'ding'

you heard the notifications ring from your phone.

Abby <3

Hey i'm outside your dorm room, i finished studying earlier than planned. Where are you?

Without answering you got up and walked towards your door, not even bothering to put pants on. You didn't even think about how much of a mess you looked like until you opened the door and saw Abby's smile drop. Hair sticking to the sides of your face, messy hair and puffy red eyes. "Oh god baby what's wrong ?" she said while walking into your dorm a worried expression on her face. You tried so hard to form a sentence and tell her that you were fine, but that familiar overwhelming feeling washed over you quicker than your ability to answer. "come here baby" she said while walking up to you to lift you up and hug you. You wrapped your legs around her waist and just started sobbing into her neck. She walked towards your bed, sitting down on it and keeping you on her lap. "please princess, talk to me" she said trying to comfort you by rubbing circles on your back.

" I d-don't know what's wrong i'm j-just so tired " you weakly answered agaisnt her shoulder now just crying harder. Abby let you calm down and just cry it out for a little as she just holds you. Whispering sweet nothings into your ear. "it's okay baby, i've got you" "Just let it out" added with the occasional forehead kiss. After you'd calmed down a little she tried talking to you again.

"how long have you been like this ?" You were scared to answer, knowing she was gonna feel guilty. "Since this morning" you answered already knowing what she was gonna say, "baby" she answered with a soft voice. "why didn't you tell me? i would've came running here?" you finally took your head off her shoulder and looked at her. "I know, but you were studying and i didn't want to distract you with my problems" she looked at you with a pained expression on her face. "I will always make time for you princess, especially for moments like these, please next time call me" you just nodded.

"Do you wanna talk about it now or do you want me to go run us a bath and talk after" she offered trying to cheer you up. "Bath, please"

The rest of the evening went smoothly. Having Abby by your side always made you feel so much better. She took care of you for the rest of the night and decided to stay over and cuddle with you while she tried to cheer you up with silly jokes and random tickles. You guys talked, cried and laughed together. She really was everything you could dream of.

#abby anderson #abby tlou #tlou 2 abby #abby x reader #abby anderson x reader #i lover her

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101crows · 4 months

Text

Invaluable Asset

AN: this could be a series, but for now I'm going to write it to be a stand alone. Please let me know if you want to see more! This takes. place in season one, sometime after episode 16. Ressler might be a little OOC.

"You're trying to tell me you don't know a single person good enough to steal these cars?"

Reddington sighed deeply, "Of course I do. But they lack a certain talent for subtlety that's necessary for this task. I'm not some type of magician, I can't just pull criminals out of my hat for you."

Cooper turned sharply. "And how exactly do you expect us to find an actor turned car thief willing to go undercover for us?"

"I can't possibly imagine how that's my problem. Either you figure it out or Amíl will be gone in less than a week. And once he's gone, you'll never so much as hear of him again." He placed his hat back on his head and turned to leave, strolling to the elevator with the same easy confidence he always seemed to have.

"For now, I have other matters to attend to."

The elevator closed just as Red finished speaking.

"Well?" Cooper asked Liz, "How do you suggest we go about this?"

Surprisingly, however, it was Ressler that answered.

"I think I know someone."

You were just pulling the muffins out of the oven when the doorbell rang.

"One second!" You called, hoping they could hear you as you pulled out the second tray and placed it onto the waiting trivet. You removed your oven mitts and set them on the counter between the two trays, then made your way to the front door. Your eyes lit up as you spotted Donnie through the tall windows. Taking two long strides to reach the door, you flung it open, a wide grin dancing on your lips.

"Donnie! Hi, I feel like I haven't seen you in forever!"

It took everything in you not to pull him in for a hug, but you knew he didn't like spontaneous physical contact, so you abstained. Donnie coughed and shifted uncomfortably and you finally registered the two others standing next to him.

The brunette had an apologetic smile on her face, but the older man looked more amused than anything.

You scanned them briefly. Deciding they looked harmless enough, you stepped back to let them in. Besides, you trusted Donnie not to bring anyone dangerous to your door.

"Nice suit. It looks good on you. Come on in, we can talk while I make the drizzle for these muffins. I hope y'all like lemon,"

You turned and led them through the house and into the kitchen, humming at the thanks you received for the compliment. You also fought off a smile when you heard him mutter something about 'good taste' to the woman.

"So," you said, carefully adding powdered sugar to the bit of lemon juice you had left, "I'm assuming this visit is for business rather than pleasure?"

"Unfortunately. I have a favor to ask of you."

"Alright," you replied. Deciding the drizzle was at the consistency you wanted, you began to spoon it over the muffins. "I can tell this is serious, and the kitchen counter is no place to discuss serious business. Donnie, could you grab plates for everyone? We'll talk about this further in the living room. Please try to keep crumbs on your plates, I cleaned the couches yesterday."

You stared incredulously at your friend and his two companions, whose names you'd learned were Liz and David, though you suspected the man was lying.

"I'm sorry, let me get this straight. You spent three years trying to get me to stop stealing cars and remove myself from this life of crime, you helped me move to get away from that life and be closer to you, and now you're telling me you want me to go steal cars in your name?"

David smiled and leaned back in his chair, "Yes."

"No." Donnie glared so hard you thought he might punch David in the face before returning his gaze to you. "Of course I don't want you to go back to stealing cars. But we need someone to go undercover for us, and unfortunately I seem to know the only car thief good enough at acting to help."

"Ex car thief, Donnie. I don't do that shit anymore."

You sighed and buried your face in your hands, dragging them down until your eyes were uncovered. "But you're my friend, and I help my friends. What do you need me to do?"

David sat back up and turned to the woman, who hadn't so much as touched her muffin.

"You really ought to try the muffins. They're incredible. As for what you need to do, we'll need you to get the attention of a certain criminal, so you're going to need you to break into his car. Don't take it though, it needs to look like you did it just to prove you could. Once you've done that, you'll have to convince him to let you join his operation instead of murdering you. Can you do that?"

You weighed your options silently. On one hand, what they were asking of you was incredibly dangerous, and even though you knew it was necessary, the idea of purposely being caught set every part of you on edge.

On the other hand though, Donnie would never ask you to do something like this unless he was truly desperate, and you trusted him not to let you get hurt. Still, he couldn't prevent every danger and doing this would be taking a huge risk.

"Which criminal?"

Liz finally added her two cents into the mix.

"I'm terribly sorry, but that's classified. Unless we have positive confirmation you'll be helping us, he'll have to remain unnamed."

A sharp, angry smile made its way onto your face.

"I'm sorry, you're not just asking me to put my life on the line, you're also asking me to risk everything I've worked so hard to build. Even if I do this, and by some miracle this man doesn't murder me, soon everyone will know who I am and what I did, and if my old employers get a hold of that information, I will be hunted, tortured, and killed. So you can either tell me who's car I'll be stealing and take the risk that I might say no, or you can get the hell out of my house right now and know for certain that you squandered your best chance of catching this man. Do I make myself clear?"

Liz opened her mouth to respond, but David cut her off before she could say anything else.

"Vicente Amíl."

"Jesus fucking Christ," you muttered.

"I'll do it. But just so we're clear, you owe me. Big time."

You locked eyes with Donnie, who sagged with visible relief.

"Thank you, (Y/n). You have no idea what this means to me."

You shook your head, standing. "I'm the stupidest person in the entire world. I can't believe I'm doing this for you. Also," you added, turning back to Liz, "It's incredibly rude not to eat food someone serves you in their home. If you didn't like lemons, you should've said so before I served you."

You turned your attention back to the boys. "You, on the other hand, should take a few muffins to go. Thank you for being so polite. You're welcome back anytime. Donnie, always good to see you, even if you are requesting impossible things from me. Please see Liz out."

Donald raised an eyebrow at that. "Just Liz?"

You glanced back at him and smiled. "And yourself, please. Do come back later though, I'm dying to catch up. David and I are going to get him his muffins."

Though polite, your tone left no room for argument and you could faintly hear Donnie and Liz arguing as they walked to the door. Once the door finally closed, you turned your attention back to the man in the center of your house.

"Wonderful. Now that they're gone, may I have your real name please? I do tire of calling you by your alias."

You watched as he chuckled and rose from his chair, strolling towards the hall leading back to the kitchen. "Raymond Reddington, at your service. It's a pleasure to meet someone so very talented."

"Please," you replied smoothly, "The pleasure is all mine. I meant what I said, by the way. Feel free to drop by whenever. I'm usually off Friday through Sunday and there's a good chance I'll be baking something else. Helps relax me, and my coworkers enjoy whatever I make as well."

He smiled as you handed him a Tupperware container with four muffins safely nestled inside. Placing his hat back upon his head, he made his way to the door, and you took notice of the glint in his eye right before he left.

"I'm sure I'll be seeing you quite soon, (Y/n)."

You leaned against the wall and watched him saunter to the car waiting for him. A different car than Donnie and Liz took, by the looks of it. The corners of your lips twitched up as you watched him go.

"Raymond Reddington, huh? What an interesting man."

P.S. The muffins mentioned are real muffins. Feel free to let me know if you want the recipe.

#the blacklist x reader #the blacklist #raymond reddington x reader #raymond reddington #raymond “red” reddington #reddington x reader #x reader #special thanks to @writingbyshiloh for inspiring me to finish this fic #comments and reblogs are always appreciated <3 #i love him your honor #the ending feels a little rushed but it's already much longer than what I usually write

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cookiesupplier · 2 months

Text

A Friend Down In Hell - Part Eight

pairing: Nick Folio x ofc (Ishtar)

warnings/tropes: slow burn, pining, idiot in love, language, drinking, mentions of violence, mentions of torture, mentions of religious mythology.

summary: Folio can't quite tell you how long he's been dead, but it doesn't matter when he has friends like his, and Ishtar. Ishtar, with whom he fell in love the moment he met her. The problem? She doesn't know it. How does he convince a demon, who is practically immortal, to date him when he's dead? How did Ellie do it so easily?

author’s note: Unbetaed.. Enjoy!

tags: @spicywhenspeaking @tearfallpixie @cncohshit @nyxthedestroyerofworlds @lyschko666 @bngurngheart @lacktoesandtoddlerants @sorrowsofsilence @collapsedglasshouses @vinyardmauro @dsireland86 @4rtificialfolio @emmmm127 @badomensls @agravemisstake @sunsshinesunny @blackveilomens

Tag lists are open, please let me know if you'd like to be added to this story, the Hell-Verse as a whole, or Everything

“Ellie, Ellie, Ellie! What did she say? What did she say?”

Folio knew that Ellie had spent the afternoon with Ishtar yesterday, she’d left work early so that she could get lunch ready for when Ishtar went over to visit Ellie for lunch. Folio had promised that he and Jolly were more than capable of holding down the fort for the last part of the day. Not only had they not had any souls left on the list, but if they had any random souls popping up out of nowhere, they’d be fine taking care of them. They’d been working together for years anyway and had been fine for the week she’d just not come to work.. But Folio hadn’t said that, not wanting Ellie to feel bad about it. He knew that was an iffy issue, considering what had brought it about in the first place.

If he said anything, he just knew he’d get a look, probably a comment to boot about the whole debacle again, and what he really wanted to know about was what had happened with Ishtar, so he was willing to jump right-over all of that.

“So, come on, don’t leave me in suspense, please?”

Sitting across from her desk, looking to her pleadingly, only for Ellie to glance over to Jolly,

“So, Jolly, guess what?”

No, no, Ellie, please don’t do this to him, she wasn’t really going to do this to him was she? Folio looked over to Jolly for support, please don’t help her, please, please don’t play into this, Jolly, J-man, Joakim, one of his best friends in the whole world, human buddies, sticking together, come on!

“Jolly, help me here man…”

Jolly looked up from his guitar that he was strumming bored today instead of one of his books, Folio just hoped that meant he wanted to be disturbed even less than he usually did, and he’d help him by diverting her back to him.. But then the next thing he did sealed Folio’s fate in the conversation, and he knew it.. Jolly smirked and set his guitar down in its case by his desk.

Crap.

That was not a good sign, at all. He was doomed. Jolly was about to help Ellie torment him, he could tell now. This had to be payback for something, but he couldn’t quite tell what it was, but it was something. Whether it was, for all the times that Folio had spent the mornings wired and hyper day in and out here in the office over the years, or the times Jolly had to carry him home from the bar? Hell, maybe just having to put up with him and his hangovers constantly. Either way, Jolly was about to be a pain in his ass side with Ellie when he needed his buddy on this one.

Groaning, all he could do was watch as Jolly looked over at Ellie as if it were just any other day and not some life altering event in Folio’s Afterlife. It was, thank you! Life Altering, well, Afterlife altering technically as it were, but the theme was still there!

“You’re going to have to give me a hint, Ellie, I could be guessing a lot of things here.”

“Nooooo.”

The giggle that came from Ellie from his dramatics was not appreciated, thank you very much. Yes, he was well aware, but he thought it was warranted considering what she was doing to him.

“Come on, Ellie, please, have a heart here… are you really going to keep this a secret? Are we not friends, the bestest buddies ol’ pals? Please?”

“A hint. Well-”

Ohhhhh dammit! Folio rolled his chair all the way towards her desk using his feet to drag it across the room and propped his head up on her desk, his hands clasped together under his chin, fingers laced together as he begged,

“Please, please, pleeeaasseee Ellie?”

She just looked at him, crossed her arms across her chest and looked at him with a raised eyebrow, she was holding this over his head, and he just looked at her wide-eyed all pleadingly, she had to give him something, anything, right..

“Remember this moment, Folio, the next time you think it’s smart to keep secrets from me.”

Oh, shit.. And he thought Noah was whipped for doing what she wanted over the whole not telling her she was dead, damn, she was good. Jolly snickering from the other table though as he moved to pick his guitar up again got her attention,

“Go ahead laugh, revenge is best served cold, Joakim.”

Oops. Who knows what she might come up with the longer he had to wait, when Jolly looked over at him, all Folio could do was shrug, shit, he couldn’t do anything for him.. She’d just gotten him outright.. As he looked back at Ellie now though..

“Does this mean you’ll tell me what Ishtar said, now?”

Looking at Ellie hopefully, if she wasn’t going to continue holding it over his head while tormenting him about Ishtar, because he really wanted to know about what had happened when she had gone over to her apartment yesterday..

“Nope.”

Folio just stared at her for a moment, a slightly dumb founded, wait.. Wait.. what..

“What, what do you mean, nope?”

Raising an eyebrow and tilting his head slightly as he looked at her hopefully,

“I mean nope.. Ishtar is my friend now, and she-”

“But I was your friend first! You said, and I quote I’m like your little brother, which makes us family! Ellie! Family first! Right Jolly? Family first! Ha!”

He pouted as she looked at him,

“I’m staying out of this.”

Jolly sat off to the side strumming his guitar but his focus very much on the tennis match of a conversation that was happening between the two friends when it came to the issue at hand.

Folio just shook his head at that, of course he was,

“Coward.”

Not wanting to risk invoking Ellie’s revenge for his part in the time she didn’t know she was dead before it was due, obviously.. Folio sure as anything hoped now he’d gotten his he was done and dusted his comeuppance with that, please and thank you!

“Come on Folio, she’s the first real girlfriend I’ve made here, and besides, if I tell you everything that she said, then it’s just as creepy as if you stalked her.. This way I can give you a gentle nudge.”

Smiling to him… a gently nudge? Huh… Folio could only hope it would be in the right direction!

He was really not any good with directions.

“Okay, one question though, one.. The reason she hasn’t asked me out-”

“I’m not telling yo-”

“I haven’t finished!”

Taking in a breath, now he had to get this right, otherwise Ellie wasn’t going to give him anything at all, and she’d just leave him hanging out to dry, he could tell now, she was being a stickler, and argh, he couldn’t entirely blame her for that.. Frustrating! It would, however, be like him trying to keep a secret for Noah, from her, horrendous. In his defence, he’d known Noah for years.. But she was right, while she had other friends, he’d noticed a lot of the girls she’d talked to, seemed to flit around her to talk to them, and it was sad. He didn’t think Ishtar would do that to her, not his girl. She wasn’t that kind of type!

“So, her not asking me out, I’m not asking if she wants to or not, okay, I, am just wondering, if the bar was a factor in her choices of… any… at all…”

He cringed.. Yea, dammit, he was no good at this.

Ellie looked at Folio as he cringed, only to see him groan at himself and then lean over her desk and then proceed to bang his forehead with a sigh. Poor Folio, he was really, bad at this, he’d been trying to get the girl for five years, and he couldn’t even ask one question without asking up front.. She could tell what he wanted to know, did she want to date him, and had she not asked because he had only ever seen her at the bar, at work, like Ellie suspected? Ellie knew the answer, but telling Folio that she’d love to go out with him, would just make this too easy for him.. No.. Ellie thought he needed to work for it. Five years, sure, but five years of shot challenges? A girl deserved to be asked properly!

“She doesn’t date or socialise with anyone from the bar, she made an exception for me because I asked to meet her outside of bar hours.”

Smiling slowly as she also remembered the other reason,

“That and I also might have terrified Tony a little by mentioning Lord Sebastian being disappointed when he wasn’t being very cooperative. That certainly put a spring in his step.”

They had laughed something wonderfully about that, even talking about some of the horrible managers that Ellie had had to deal with during the few times she had been able to get work while she was alive. Now though, the guys were snickering at the idea that Ellie had name-dropped, especially after what Folio had said about the manager of the bar the other night, he seemed like a right gem after all.

“But that golden ticket has been used up, if you want a chance Folio, and I say if because Nicholas Folio,” “Ohhhh Folio, she full named you, run while you still can man.” Jolly smirked as he strummed a tune with his guitar, and Folio just shrugged at him while Ellie kept going ignoring them both, he liked that Ellie was being protective of Ishtar, he loved it, and told him that she was going to fit right in.

“If I find out that you have half-assed this, so help me, I will grab my bat and kick your ass six ways to Sunday. I will make you wish you were back in a punishment realm, understood?”

“Yes, Ma’am!”

He gave her a playful salute in reply with a small smile. Ellie sat back in her chair with a small chair, and smiled slightly, Folio looking at her expectantly,

“What?”

“What? What do you mean, what? Nothing else? No plan, no nothing? All we have now is that I need to see her outside the bar, and I’m right back where I started, stalking her.. I don’t want to be a creepy stalker Ellie!”

She nodded to him,

“I know.. Be patient, Folio, be patient.”

He pouted at her then,

“Five years, Ellie.. Five years.”

That just made her smile even more,

“Then waiting just a little longer isn’t going to hurt, now, is it? Trust me, Folio, trust me.”

When Folio was all jittery and frustrated after that, Jolly ended up just kicking him out of the office and sending him home, telling him to just go run it off, something. He knew him though, Nick would likely take his bike out for a ride, and it would help him unwind. Turning to Ellie now, he sighed,

“Please tell me you actually have a plan, and it's not really, the universe will provide or some shit.. Because his head is about to explode. I know I can have some extremely chill vibes.. Sometimes.. But you’ve seen him, the thought that Ishtar has even noticed him, let alone considered dating him, had him so excited I’m almost surprised he hadn’t turned into a puppy and just peed all over the place. If he was a demon, he might have.”

Ellie laughed, and he chuckled along with her, but he wasn’t really joking, he was dead serious, he thought he would have done it!

“Thank god humans can’t shape-shift on that one..”

Agreeing with her one hundred per cent, Jolly leaned back in his chair.

“Yea, that would be a sight for sure, but no, seriously, you and Ishtar talked about some idea right, something to give our boy a nudge in the right direction, something Sweetheart?”

Jolly just scrutinised her for a moment, as Ellie smiled softly,

“You realise she’s left him breadcrumbs over the years, right? Folio has just, not noticed, or been wilfully obtuse? They’ve talked about things, things that she’s liked, things that she enjoys doing.. Events she planned to go to over the years…”

He groaned, Folio, that ridiculous little idiot, so it was right in front of him this entire time, he didn’t need to stalk her, he could have just taken her hints and gone to check out literally any of these things that she liked and viola, hope to run into her there. However, his worry about her seeing him as a stalker, always put him off, when she was always wanting him to take the initiative. He didn’t want to be a barfly, and she didn’t socialise at work..

“Well, talk about a clusterfuck.”

“So, instead, she is going to just happen to cross his path on her own, thanks to me telling her where he likes to hang out directly.. She isn’t worried about the stalk factor after five years of shots and flirting.”

Jolly chuckled, good for her, she was willing to take a risk, and knowing Folio, he wasn’t even going to question it.. Well.. no.. maybe he would.. But he would just thank his lucky stars and may kiss the ground Ishtar and Ellie walked on.

“And the hope, is maybe, if they start talking outside the bar, and she talks to him about things, and invites him to things without the bar.. He’ll get more of a hint! He is going to have to work for it, though, girls gotta have some fun.”

Jolly hummed thoughtfully, thinking about the possibilities of what could come.

“This is Folio, how many years? She can hint, and we’ll just smack him around with your bat, either way he’ll get the idea eventually. We’ll make sure of it.”

With her bat, or a sledgehammer, whatever worked.

Dividers by @saradika-graphics

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calehenituse-brainrot · 2 years

Note

Hiya! Just wanted to say that I absolutely love how you write! Also, can I request a Cale/Reader where the reader is his childhood friend? (If you're too busy, please feel free to ignore this!) :D

am digging thru my inbox and found this and was struck with an idea

okay babe, this was done in the middle of the night so it might suck because i genuinely forgot where i was going

the ask is pretty vague so im doing a KRS!Cale x Reader x OG!Cale

i hope you're not too upset with me changing a few things 😔🥺

That man is not your Cale.

You watched the person that simultaneously looks like your Cale and yet nothing like him with cautious eyes.

Why is there no one pointing out how different he was acting?

Had you gone crazy?

"[Name]?"

'Even his voice sounds exactly the same,' you thought, a chill running up your spine. His voice sounds exactly the same and yet it was different.

Cale had never called for you like that so nonchalantly.

No matter how much alcohol he had taken or tired he is from acting like a lout, he had never called for you that. His voice had always been warm when he talks to you and the reason why you were able to point that out was because you were the only living person with that privilege to hear it.

"C-Cale?" You called for him nervously. "Did something happen?"

Cale's one red eyebrow raised in confusion. "I don't think so, no."

He stared at you, trying to think what you were thinking. You were not mentioned at all in all of The Birth of A Hero series and to think that this trash son of a count was able to have a close friend was surprising. What's even more surprising was the fact that said close friend was you, the child of an artisan who worked underneath Countess Violan.

Apparently, the trash son and you were close enough to the point you're allowed in his room whenever he decides to be docile for the day.

It had been only a few days ever since he possessed the body of Cale Henituse and had been spending the last few days searching for more information regarding Cale Henituse that might not be mentioned in the first volume of the book.

You had apparently left the county for a few days to buy new tools for your father since he had just done a commission for the Countess. When you came back, Cale had gathered enough information to make sure you wouldn't see through him.

"Y-You just seem really quiet," you added quietly, sitting across him with both hands on your lap anxiously.

You feel like you are talking to a stranger.

And you know you are,

Because that man is not your Cale.

"Do you want me to cause a ruckus then?" Cale questioned and you glanced up at him.

'That's something Cale would say,' you both thought.

Usually, when he says something like that, you'd always challenge him to actually cause a ruckus and he'd never act upon it because he knows if you were to be with him while he's acting like a lout, you'd get even more swept up into rumors than you already do.

"Then do it."

Cale looked at your expression, able to see your shaking eyes and the way your jaw moved as if you were biting on the insides of your cheeks. You were agitated, but why? You had just urged him to cause a ruckus with such a nervous expression that Cale began to think something must have gone wrong.

"Do it," you pressed. "Cause a ruckus."

Cale stayed quiet. What the hell?

He knew you were a bit weird since you were friends with the original Cale Henituse but to think you were gonna press him into causing a ruckus?

'Don't tell me the problem isn't Cale Henituse but [Name] who's the one been urging him to do those acts,' Cale thought to himself with a small frown.

You suddenly stood up from your spot as if the seat had burned you. You stared at him for a moment, still agitated and glancing at the door several times. It was clear you wanted to leave and Cale would not take that privilege from you — he'd actually gladly give it to you.

"Nevermind that," you told him hurriedly before he can say anything else. "I'll be on my way back to help my father with his next work. I'll talk to you soon, Ca-I mean, Young Master Cale-nim."

You bowed to him and immediately hurried to leave, eager to get out and escape from being alone with a man you did not recognize.

Cale watched you leave, his heart nearly jumping up to his throat when he saw how you had looked back at him when you were going to close the door.

'There's no doubt about it,' he thought.

You knew.

Cale was convinced you had figured out something was wrong - how you found out within one meeting with him was impressive, he had to admit that. He had underestimated how close you were with the original Cale Henituse and didn't think you'd be able to immediately see through him. He'd thought you'd be at least be relieved that he was no longer causing trouble here and there, like the other rest of the family and staff.

'To think they're that sharp,' he thought with a frustrated frown. 'They must've noticed something was wrong. I must've acted wrong.'

When you didn't turn up for the next few days and was openly avoiding him to the point the Countess herself had asked if something went wrong, Cale knew he had to do something.

It'd be bad news for him if you go around tattling to others about what you were suspecting - whatever it was in your head. Either way, it's bad news to him because he'd have to deal with the questions he's not even sure he's capable of answering.

"What the hell," Cale mumbled as he stood in front of his windows, watching you talking animatedly with a bunch of maids near the garden.

As if able to feel his gaze, you looked up and made eye contact with him. Both of you flinched in surprise and Cale sees how you immediately averted your gaze and said something to the maids, quickly ending the conversation with them and then running away from his line of sight.

A knock was heard from the other side of his door and a slightly strained voice called out, "Young Master Cale-nim, it's Ron."

'Dammit,' Cale thought. 'One problem after the other, please.'

"Come in," Cale answered, turning around to face the former-assassin-turned-butler who had entered his room without making a sound. 'What a scary old man.'

"Young Master Cale-nim, you seem upset," Ron pointed out with a benign smile. "Is it because of Miss [Name]?"

Cale raised an eyebrow. "What makes you think so?"

Ron's smile turned even scarier in Cale's eyes upon hearing his tone. "Well, it's clear that they're avoiding our Young Master-nim. Usually, you'd be together nearly all the time in the estate if their schedule allows them to do so."

Cale had severely underestimated how close and observant you were to the original Cale Henituse. If this continues, people would immediately catch on.

'I have to talk to them.'

So he asked for Ron to have you visit him when you can tonight, something that you surprisingly accepted. Ron stated that you seemed a bit rattled upon hearing that Cale wanted to meet, which was apparently odd for you because you always liked meeting him.

"Did something happen, Young Master-nim?' Ron had asked, his tone rather teasing than concerned.

'That's what I'm trying to know,' Cale had grumbled. Ron gives him a benign smile.

You did come when you were free, though it's during one of the times everyone was supposed to be resting, which was at night. You knocked on his door at around 10 PM and needed no answer from him to come in.

Cale who had been waiting for you -- for your information, he fought off his sleepiness just to wait for you to come -- turned to look at you. His eyes widened a bit when he saw that you were trembling a bit. And also...

Is that a small knife in your shaking grip?

"You're not Cale Henituse," you stated, voice shaking and obviously horrified at the sight of him. "You're an imposter."

"Put the knife down," Cale began slowly. One of your hands lets go of the knife, showing just how violently you were trembling while facing him. Your hand locks the door behind you before you turned to look at him again.

'They're bold,' he thought. 'And reckless.'

In your hand was a whittling knife that you always used to help your father add detailing and smooth out his work. It was small and meant to do little work despite how it's a general item to be used for woodworking, and you know it would do little damage, but this was the only thing you were capable of thinking to bring.

"You're just someone who looks like him," you say with a trembling voice. "You sound exactly like him, but you are not him."

Cale takes a step closer and you raised the little knife. "D-don't move!"

Cale stared at you, seeing how your face is pale and your whole body is trembling. He can see that even though you were trying your best to grip on that little whittling knife for dear life, your hands are shaking to the point you had to readjust your grip every second.

There were tears beginning to emerge in your eyes -- is it sadness over the realization that your friend is gone or is it out of fear because you do not know what could he do to you now that your friend is gone and you're all alone with him on a locked room?

You were bold and reckless, but you were smart and observant, he had to admit that.

You were able to see through him even though all you did was sit in silence and asked a couple of questions -- Cale wondered if that's all it needed for your to see that the original Cale Henituse had been gone. But how were you able to conclude that Cale Henituse is gone and that he is someone else?

"I am Cale Henituse," Cale said, taking another step closer to you. Your breath hitched a bit and you backed up to the door, still trying your very best to hold the knife up.

"N-no, you're not," you stammered. "Y-you're not him. I know him, and--"

"Why do you think so?" Cale asked again, taking another step closer.

Your back hits the wall and he can see in your eyes the moment you realized that you couldn't possibly stab him - not when he looks and sounds exactly like your beloved friend. It was cruel of him, but to ensure his safety, it needed to be done.

"H-he"--You choked up--"He's n-not supposed to be like this with me."

A tear fell down, and your whittling knife dropped to the ground. With a face full of sorrow, your [e/c] eyes finally met his russet ones. Your eyes were wet and bloodshot as you stare at him with such a crestfallen expression, "Y-You're not supposed to look at me with those eyes, Cale."

You slowly sink to the floor, covering your face as muffled sobs began to come out from your lips. Cale stared at the door, his usually nonchalant face succumbing into an appalled expression as he process your words.

Reality slapped him hard this time -- harder than it did when he woke up as Cale Henituse.

He forgets sometimes that even though this was just a fantasy action book written by someone from his world, this was an alternate universe that actually existed. Every single person here has a life and story that exists despite not being mentioned at all in those books.

You and the original Cale Henituse were not an exception.

The books may have shown that Cale Henituse was a lout from the Henituse family, but that was not all about Cale, isn't it?

The books never showed about Cale having a close relationship with a wood crafter's child and developing a relationship with them. The books doesn't talk about how Cale Henituse while a lout, could also be capable of compassion and loving others to the point he'd love someone despite the obvious status differences.

And what bothered Cale, no, Kim Rok Soo, was the fact that he so easily accepted that his soul now resides in Cale Henituse's body and did not think of what grief would be felt by people who truly do care for the original Cale Henituse.

"Cale"--You were now on the floor, almost like you were bowing to him as you gripped at the trousers of his pajamas in desperation--"Where's my Cale?"

"My Cale," you sobbed on the carpet of his bedroom. "Where is he?"

Cale bent down, placing his hands on your shoulders. "I'm sorry."

You shake your head, tears streaming down your face. "No, no! Don't say that! Give me back my Cale!"

Cale clenched his jaw as he thought about what should he say to you. He doesn't know where your Cale is and he couldn't even give you an explanation of how he got here. "I'm sorry."

"Stop saying sorry!" You nearly wailed. "Just give me back my Cale!"

"I don't know where he is," he says to you, gripping on your shoulder and forcing you to look at him. He sees your face, streaked with tears and he wonders what should he say. "Let's sit down and I'll explain this to you."

He helped you get back on your feet and walked over to the couch in his bedroom, sitting across from you as you were still sniffling, wiping away your tears.

Even while he explains his situation to you, he can see that you were still wary of him and even did not trust him. He told you about how he was a man from another world, falling asleep in his home and then waking up as Cale Henituse and he had been doing his best to adjust to this new life.

"Regarding Cale Henituse himself, I do not know anything," he told you. "I don't know where he is right now. Maybe he's possessing my body, maybe not."

"Is there no way he can return?" You asked with such a small voice that Cale could barely hear it had it not been a quiet night. "That my Cale can be back?"

That was how you had been addressing the original Cale Henituse all night. Your Cale. It was a bit of an odd thing to hear when he's been trying his best to adjust to the name 'Cale' himself but he wasn't going to comment it out loud.

"Again, I don't know," Cale answered.

He sees you take a deep breath, rubbing your face before letting your hands go through your hair. You looked to the side, blinking rapidly as new tears began to emerge in the corner of your eyes again. They quickly fell down to your cheeks and you began to speak in a shaky voice, "I-I can't see him again?"

Cale thought about Lee Soo Hyuk and Choi Jung Soo. He could always see them again by looking at the pictures they had forced him to take with them. He could always reminisce about the moments they had together, but he could never meet them again and he's already at peace with it.

He could understand how you feel.

The grief, the hurt of not being able to look at their eyes again, to see their smile, to be able to talk again to them.

He could understand how you were hurting.

"We never know," Cale answered. "He may come back, he may not."

You closed your eyes, tilting your head down as more tears fall to the carpet. "I see..."

Cale gives you some time to process through the whole thing -- it was the least he could do -- and waits for you to calm down, which was surprisingly a lot quicker than he predicted before he could properly ask you, "What was your relationship with him?"

"We were romantically involved since two years ago," you murmured. "I told him it was impossible but he convinced me."

Cale already predicted it, but it was still surprising to hear you say that. 'I guess that guy wasn't so bad if he has a significant other...'

"I won't demand anything from you as a partner," you quickly added. "Our relationship is a secret and you are not him, so I will not expect you to do anything."

Cale nodded. "Thank you, because I'm not interested."

You stared at him for a moment, an internal battle brewing up inside your heart and you nodded as a response. "Could you promise me something, though, stranger?"

Cale, no, Kim Rok Soo raised an eyebrow. "What is it?"

"Promise me that if there is ever a chance that you encounter him again, tell me about it."

Cale had thought about how your request didn't seem so hard - that even though there's a high possibility of that happening, he thought how it could possibly not happen because Cale Henituse is probably dead.

Maybe he could worry about that once he gets his slacker life.

It would have been so easy.

His life would go on so easily.

But, no, you had to know about his identity and learn more about him.

You were able to let him talk to you about himself longer than he had ever talked about himself to his subordinates. Your easy-going nature along with a slightly playful personality was so easy to work with and you were SO. GODDAMN. OBSERVANT.

He couldn't leave you be because of the guilt he still feels. You have always said that he wasn't in the wrong, that he did not have to feel guilty, but it's so hard to accept that. He's still struggling, but he could never leave you be and makes sure to always update you on whatever he's doing.

"I actually don't want to get closer to you at first, you know," you had said with a melancholic smile. "But I can't just leave you be, not when you're walking around with that face."

"Don't get it mixed up," he warned you.

You smiled at him, amused. "I won't."

"Also," you added, patting the lapel of his uniform in thought. "I'm glad to see Cale Henituse achieve something as admirable as this. Well, not him, but to see the image of him being like this makes me happy."

As he stood in front of you as you fixed the pin of the Henituse territory on his Commander uniform, he thought about how sickeningly sweet it was to have you do something as domestic as this.

"Thank you, for allowing me to see Cale like this."

His breath was taken away by the smile on your face when you uttered those words.

And then he was reminded that your smile is not reserved for him, but only for the original Cale Henituse. He knows that you still weep for the loss of your lover despite years have passed and you're always having an internal conflict whenever you look at him.

Sometimes he can see that you forget that your lover is gone, like when you instinctively cradled his cheek when he was upset, and the way you'd immediately apologize and leave made his heart beat faster, and yet they sink at the same time.

Curse you for knowing his boundaries.

He doesn't really know what he should call these emotions that have been brewing in his heart over the course of years after knowing you - they were pleasant and yet they hurt him to the point he'd curse himself for feeling them.

When he finally met the original Cale Henituse, now residing in his previous body as Kim Rok Soo, he waited for the man to mention you and when he never did, he decided to bring you up.

"Are you not going to ask anything about [Name]? They know about me being someone else."

Kim Rok Soo's face morphed from nonchalant to form a small melancholic smile. "How are they?"

"They're fine," Cale answered. "Before your regression, what happened to [Name]?"

"I married them, of course," Kim Rok Soo answered with a somber smile. "I loved them till the day they died."

Cale's breath got caught in his throat.

Oh.

"They died along with the rest of the family," Kim Rok Soo continued. "They were the love of my life and they made sure I didn't feel too alone. We have loved each other since we were young, long before we both even know what exactly loving someone else meant."

"Take care of them for me, won't you?"

Cale nodded, fist tightening. "I will."

Was it wrong to be so relieved of those words? Was it wrong to be relieved, knowing that you were officially being given the free will to make your choice? That you have been let go of by your former lover to do so?

That there might be a chance for him?

"I'll make sure to keep them safe," Cale said. "Not for you. But for their own sake and mine."

Kim Rok Soo's eyes widened a bit after hearing Cale's declaration. A satisfied smile began to bloom on his scarred face. "I see. You're going to be a lucky man, then."

"Tell them that I am happy where I am right now," Kim Rok Soo added. "I'm a bit saddened, but I will be with my mother from now on, so there's no need to grief over me because I am happy with the choice I make."

He had always thought about your request and always thought that it wouldn't be too hard, but how could he say that to you?

Either way, it's his responsibility so he should start thinking about it.

When he finally conveyed the news to you, giving a vague explanation about how the original Cale Henituse made a choice to be with his mother so as to not expose the issue with the God of Death, he had to listen to you wail, louder than when you realized your lover was gone all those years ago.

Perhaps you feel the same way as he does, perhaps not.

Cale knows he had to be patient and let you heal first, but he knows that at the end of the day, however long you'll take to move on, he'll always wait for you.

#cale henituse x reader #cale henituse #totcf #tcf cale #lout of count's family #lcf cale #original kim rok soo #original cale henituse #trash of the counts family #trash of the count's family

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