#old news but i continue to stan

[fullscoreshenanigans]

One of the many unintentional, understated moments of dark humor in this series is this little bit after Ray’s changed into clothes that aren’t drenched in lighter fluid. His mind is such an utter mess he spent the whole time changing thinking, “okay, maybe Emma didn’t quite get what I was saying during my earlier speech because I was being a little bit too over the top. I’m sure if I explain more calmly why I need to and deserve to die, she’ll understand and agree with me.” (The little slump of his shoulders when he starts that second line, too. Granted, it takes a lot to undo years of such belief and self-loathing, but the resignation in his voice and body language is crushing.)

Her of all people. As if she didn’t just immediately dart out and save his match from hitting the floor without a single second of consideration spent on the damage it would do to her hands.

And her response is to slap him hard enough all the remaining lighter fluid in his hair flies off. 10/10, comedy gold, bawling my eyes out!

[musette22]

Sebastian Stan talking about Bucky Barnes in CATFA

[causalityparadoxes]

"The Doctor and Master use Theta and Koschei when they're alone. Those are their real names so they use them when they're soft with eachother :3"

I am killing you with lazer beams

[floorpancakes]

its about perspective dont look at me

[hoperays-song]

Why Nooshy Ended Up Moving In With Ash In My Continuation Fic.

Johnny, trying to cook: Where’s the ice? 

Nooshy, watching tv: I don't know, check the oven.

Johnny: ...

Johnny: Nooshy, I know you did not put the ice tray into the bloody oven after I mentioned I specifically needed ice to make this.

Nooshy: ... Well, when you put it like that...

Johnny: I’m gonna kill you.

Nooshy, bolting for the stairs: Dad!

Johnny, chasing after her: Oh no you don’t, dad!

Marcus, downstairs in the garage, just trying to work: And this is why I only had one kid in the first place. Will you two please stop trying to kill each other?!

Johnny and Nooshy: They started it!!

Marcus: *sigh of parental disappointment and exhaustion*

---------------------------

Needless to say after a week in Calatonia, Nooshy decided that sleeping on Ash’s brand new couch in an apartment with only one person was a much better deal than staying at the Taylor’s. 

Marcus called Buster the first chance he got to make sure the two weren’t rooming together at the Majestic. Nooshy and Johnny are still best friends and act like siblings and hang out 98% of the time, but a roommates situation would have been a nightmare for everyone involved.

[conartisthaiji]

yeah for the most part im done looking into new ggs

[tiktaalic]

catching fire dash simulator

finnicksgirl Follow

my streams have been cutting all season omfg what is going on

caps4finnick Follow

cinnagirl3000 Follow

anybody heard from cinna lately?

plutarcheology Follow

Plutarch Heavensbee circa 2282

revolutionarykatniss

As if it’s not ENOUGH that yall wanna fuck the most morally bankrupt man alive who is more than complicit because he gets paid to live in luxury to ORCHESTRATE the deaths of innocents so that they’re a spectacle and don’t have the option to die even semi peacefully. as if that’s not enough. You wanna fuck him when he’s ugly?

caesarflickerwoman Follow

anyone else still thinking about how caesar and peeta were kinda ..

czrflckmn

Aren’t you the one who had the week long meltdown about peeta being overfamiliar with him

caesarflickerwoman

Well you see I’m gay and a man now

theeclove Follow

already tired of this fucking season of everlark -_- idgaf about the fucking fog

siblingvictors

DISTRICT ONE GONNA SEND THEM A CANCELLATION NOTICE!! #CASHMEREGLOSS4EVER

czrflkmn Follow

everyone looooooves to act like NOTABLE cishet peeta is so gay w caesar as if his gay cohost isn't right there.... slaying in a wig..... sending yearning glances caesar's way right before the camera cuts......

johannadykeson Follow

tbh she’s got the WORST taste in allies idek why i continue to stan. girl MAGS?

#my girl going to get slorn :/

katnissgirlsmakedo

She is choosing with her HEART she chose to save peeta in the games REMEMBERRRRRRRR she’s literally a lovergirl to the core

#lovecore #heartcore #truelove

lucygraydotcom Follow

Caesar flickerman kidn if a laughing gnome. Reblog

finnickforever Follow

I’ve supported finnick through a lot and defended them and I’ve always been proud they're from my district but honestly they went way too far by doing the salute during the interview. I can only hope that they just got caught up in the moment with everyone else doing it and obviously it’s a stressful situation but I don’t think I can continue endorsing them. I’ll be changing my url this week.

divorceekatniss Follow

hey guys i know times are tough for everyone and the capital has really cracked down but my mutual @divorceepeeta got flogged the other day and could really use some help. v3nmo here. anything helps #signalboost #mockingjay

disabledmags Follow

Tbh the baby is the saddest thing I've ever heard </3

peetaspride

Another citizen falling for capital propaganda. It's so glaringly apparent that this is made up to draw in views. The tributes undergo extensive medical examination prior to the games. They would NEVER let a pregnant woman compete.

disabledmags

As if killing children has ever stopped them before?

#We all saw him fall to protect her stomach before they even started the victory tour #Is it that ridiculous to believe two newlyweds fresh out of a life or death situation would celebrate a little carelessly?

peetaspride

If you think even the marriage is real you're stupider than I thought. Peeta spends every interview begging us to see his truth. The capital is shamelessly silencing him and "the baby" is a distraction.

peetasbabymama Follow

URL CHANGE!! faggotpeeta->peetasbabymama

cupcakeeverlark

this isnt funny. peeta's a real person with real feelings. it will never be funny to call someone a f***** as a joke. how would you feel if my url was f*****peetasbabymama?

peetasbabymama

ok

district420

isnt cupcakeeverlark literally prez snow's 12 yr old granddaughter lol

tendinghiswounds

OOMF IS 12???????????

everlarklovechild

the age is the problem here?

marriedeverlark Follow

Canon url 🎉🎊💅😁🥰♥️

beeteemp3 Follow

New content of my favorite tribute 😁😁😁

3ffietrinket

Girl there’s a 96% chance they die ?

peenick Follow

getting reports from the presidential banquet that Peeta looks gay as fuck

3v3rlark Follow

ik peeniss has been flagging w the rehearsed speeches but did anyone else see the way they looked at each other in the censored district 11 speech

rues-song

you’re STUPID she’s a capital pawn AND i fucked your mom while you were busy looking for illegal streams

senecacraneofficial Follow

rip seneca you were so babygirl </3

plutarchbaby69

so now you think we can’t fuck old men?

#this fandom is so ageist #this is prob what I get for blogging about thg tbh since # it’s literally about kids. Some of you ppl need to grow up

[incorrectbatfam]

Types of obnoxious batfam stans

Written by an obnoxious batfam stan

Not really a rant but something I've noticed over the years interacting in different spaces and I've decided to make your problem now.

Please note that I'm not saying there's any "right" way to be a fan because we all suck by virtue of being comic nerds, but there are certain kinds of batfamily fans that stick out to be in particular.

Anywho, here are 12 kinds of annoying batfam stans that you've probably run into and you better get a laugh out of it *points gun to your head*.

1) The Newbies Who Never Heard of Google

There's no shame in being new to something. It's a phase that we're all guaranteed to go through, whether we're 11 or 101. However, in this day and age, so many things can be easily googled that you don't need to shout every question you have into the VVorld VVide VVoid. If you need comic recs or a reading list, google it. If you wanna know a character's origin story, google it. If you need to know the color of Batman's underpants in a particular issue in 1965... well that's probably too specific for Google but Reddit will definitely have an answer.

2) The Middle School Authors

Before the 13-year-olds get up in my notes, I'm not saying everyone that age writes like this. Middle school is a state of mind. These fanfic writers usually stand out in a few ways.

They're oftentimes first-person POV or reader-insert. Give Y/N a break, she's tired.

The grammar is stunningly atrocious. I get if you're inexperienced or if you're writing in a second language, but we are in the prime era of autocorrect. If you need help, it's right there. Also, fuck c*nsoring b*d w*rds and fuck "unalive."

The characters do things that are out-of-character because the author is projecting their own personality. Bruce Wayne is a lot of things but he does not listen to the fucking Mountain Goats.

There's a lack of experience or research when it comes to certain topics. That's not how physics works. He can't walk that injury off. And that's definitely NOT how you do the horizontal hokey pokey.

3) The Neckbeards

Unfortunately, these basement-dwelling mouth-breathers tainted the image of what a comic fan is, though that's been changing recently. Still, we've all seen them. They gatekeep via pop quizzes, 'cause obviously you're not a real fan unless you know what page 10 of Batman #138 smells like. They give unsolicited commentary on people's cosplays, nitpicking the guys and being gross toward women. And heaven forbid the comics add a little diversity.

4) The Moviegoers

Nothing inherently wrong with getting into the fandom via the movies, nor is there anything wrong with sticking to that. I just feel like we're two different species of Galapagos finches, you know?

5) The Christopher Nolans

Separate from casual fans of the Nolan movies. I'm calling them the Christopher Nolans because these people have a tendency to reach for the grimdarkest thing possible. It's like they cannot fathom Batman having any other emotions besides punching and gargoyle brooding.

6) The Canon Purists

Wanna share a fun headcanon? NO, because Stephanie Brown never used cherry lip balm in the comics so therefore that must be the absolute truth. These people are a stickler for comic accuracy to the point where it's like... why bother interacting with the fandom in the first place? The worst part is when they're adamant on following a single continuity and refuse to consider anything else. This is comics we're talking about. Everything either has been or will be canon at some point.

7) The Fanon Worshippers

On the opposite end of the spectrum, we have the people who base their entire perception of the characters on something either they pulled out of their ass or that their mutual with 16 followers came up with, despite evidence directly contradicting it. I love WFA, but I feel like that's partially responsible for further perpetuating certain popular myths. Also, these fans tend to focus solely on the batfam/their ships. It's one thing to have some people in the foreground vs. background, but put some respect to Bart Allen's name you goddamn cheesecakes.

8) The Golden Age Dads

These guys aren't really obnoxious. I actually find it kind of cute how they think Jason Todd is still dead.

9) The Chronically Online

I have a rule of thumb when it comes to discourse: if it's not something I'd hear about at a bar, it's not worth my mental energy. Some people haven't gotten the memo, though.

These are either the well-intentioned but misinformed teenagers or grown-ass adults beefing with children because they don't have a life. They have takes that are oversimplified, rage-inducing, TikTok algorithm attention-grabbers that no one cares about in real life.

Don't get me wrong, we've got a bunch of issues in comics and fandom that are worth discussing. However, there comes a point where you're splitting hairs and need to go the fuck outside. I'm not gonna link the post 'cause I don't wanna call them and their 7 notes out, but the other week I saw someone saying Stephcass was a racist ship because something something colonialism parallel. You gotta be Elastigirl to have that kind of reach.

10) The Corporate Simps

I love comics. I appreciate the writers and artists. However, you will find my carcass in a ditch before you catch me licking the boots of DC/Warner Bros. Basically, these fans, fewer as they are, can't seem to fathom that their favorite franchise can (and does) put out some steaming motherfucking garbage.

11) The Hot Cosplayers

Not actually annoyed, I'm just a little jealous. Stop being hotter than me, please and thank you.

12) The One With A Punchline For Everything

Wait–

[spacerockfloater]

Why the fuck does Laena Velaryon, who is canonically younger than Rhaenyra Targaryen in the show, look like a fucking 20-year-old in episode 5 while Rhaenyra, her elder, still looks fucking 13? Why the actual fuck did they change the YOUNGER girl’s actress and made her look older, but it’s okay for Rhaenyra to continue looking like a preteen? I’ll tell you why.

They’re trying to distract us from the fact that creepy ass Daemon is courting a 14-year-old. A FOURTEEN YEAR OLD. Rhaenyra is 15 in episode 1 and Laena is 12, meaning they have a 3 year age gap. Then, Viserys tells Rhaenyra that she must marry since she’s 17 now, making Laena 14, maybe 15 at best. So they obviously can’t afford having Daemon thirst over a child again, therefore this is a shitty attempt to cover up the fact that Laena still is a very fucking young child.

HBO what is this? Why do your casting choices indicate that you’re trying to use some kind of ageist technique to manipulate your viewers? Why are the supposedly good guys, Rhaenyra and her children, portrayed by very young actors? Is this to show how innocent and pure they are? Why are the characters who are supposedly evil, Aegon and Aemond, or the character for whom we shouldn’t worry too much about since she’s just a tool for Daemon’s story line to develop, Laena, portrayed by obviously older actors even though they’re all supposed to be kids? Because the youth = good people and old = bad people analogy is fucking gross and lowkey paedophilic. Not to mention how weird it is to make all the black girls in the show look like fucking grown ups. What kind of racist bullshit is this?

I can’t understand HBO’s decisionmaking for the love of me. Like, on the one hand, it’s so obvious that they’re forcing Daemon and Rhaenyra down our throats, to the point that I actually laughed out loud when the show runner said “he doesn’t get why people like Daemon”. Like, my guy, you MADE the show. You made him look like an appealing, dangerous, sexy, strong, victorious and mysterious man, so what do you mean you don’t get the appeal? On the other hand though, most of the actions that they allow Daemon to perform are so horrifying that it makes it impossible for a sane person to stand beside him and defend him. Like, they try to sugarcoat that he’s an abusive piece of shit yeah, but they somehow don’t shy away from the fact that he’s terrible? Are they doing both of these things on purpose? Are they trying to challenge the viewer, to show us how abusers, despite being openly deranged, still have their way of dazzling their victims, the average person, and hypnotising them with their charm? Is Daemon doing to us (and by us I mean you Daemon stans, not me, stay safe though) what he’s doing to Rhaenyra and Laena? Are the show producers testing the average viewer’s intelligence and ability to recognise an abuser? Will there be a lesson to be learned?

I would like to hope so but I highly doubt it, because while one could support this theory by arguing that changing Laena’s actress is an attempt to mask Daemon’s degenerative nature a bit so that it isn’t completely obvious that he’s a bad man, someone else could counter this argument by saying that we’ve already seen Daemon groom a minor so this wouldn’t be something new. We’ve seen him do much more violent crimes actually, so why shy away from the fact he’s a groomer when we are already aware of this? Idk man, I really want to think that HBO is trying to make us see that Daemon is an evil person, but then indirectly glorifying him constantly makes me believe they just want people to root for him.

P.S. I may anger a lot of people by saying this, so I’ll make myself clear by stating that I love and greatly respect actors who specialise in portraying evil characters, because doing so and not losing yourself is a challenge (*cough* Leto *cough*) but if done correctly, it’s a true showcase of one’s talent and hard work. Lee, De Niro, Hopkins, Bardem and Rickman are just a few to name. However, Matt Smith has never rubbed me the right way. No hate to the guy, I don’t even know him, but I’ve seen him play the villain in three separate occasions (HOTD, Last Night in Soho, Morbius) and I just get these weird vibes, but I usually told myself it’s just my imagination running wild. However, I recently found out that Smith claimed that Daemon is a loyal man who loves deeply and that his “heir for a day” brothel feast was his way of honouring Aema, which really disturbed me for obvious reasons. I don’t know if he said this because he’s trying to defend his character and by extension himself, or if he just wants to promote the show, or if he doesn’t understand Daemon or if he funnily enough has fallen victim to his own character’s charm and I don’t care because it is a dangerous thing to say. Painting this character, the arrogant, obnoxious, self serving, people slaughtering, wife murdering, backstabbing, abusing, grooming, lying, manipulating, war criminal of a man, in such a positive light while being a man yourself, knowing that most of this character’s supporters are young impressionable women who just find him hot, makes me lowkey wanna cover my drink in his presence, I don’t know.

[prettyinpwn-blog]

Does anyone else feel like... something new is brewing for GF?

Sorry I've been posting a lot out of the blue after months of inactivity, but, you all get it... the GF fixation train comes and goes.

Anyways, I'm getting some spidey senses going on about GF lately. There's The Book of Bill coming out, Alex Hirsch doing an interview with ThatGFFan and Fordtato/Hana Hyperfixates (you folks are awesome btw), Alex himself has been super, super quiet for a while as far as I know...

I especially am a bit curious about why The Book of Bill is being released so many damn years after the show was released. There's no big anniversary coming up (the 10 year passed in 2022), the show is - let's just admit it so I can feel like the old ass lady I am - old itself, and usually stuff like this gets greenlit around other materials for promo reasons.

My point is, is usually something like The Book of Bill, you'd expect to have been released long ago to capitalize on the show's success post-finale, like how Journal 3 and Lost Legends were published. But... all of the sudden 10+ years down the line, we're seeing stuff like the soundtrack vinyl, the Bill purse, and I believe there were Ford and Stan plushies iirc, and now The Book of Bill being released.

And there are details about these two things that are... weird. The soundtrack had a full version of "We'll Meet Again" with all the characters voiced by Alex Hirsch (e.g Bill, Stan, Soos, McGucket, etc). Very strange thing to be added to the record, hm... and The Book of Bill is set to be more adult in flavor.

I'll just bluntly state it: I think they're testing the waters for more Gravity Falls with a more adult audience, capitalizing on old as dust fans like me who were active when the series aired, plus newer fans given Gravity Falls' seemingly evergreen appeal. Like I'm about... 80% certain on this. I'm not saying this to clickbait anyone but it really feels like something new is on the horizon. I'm not saying it's a new show, maybe comics or some sort of prequel or continuation in another medium, but my spidey senses are tingling, like I said.

Does anyone else feel the same, or am I just... too hopeful?

[scaredpigeons]

Aqua Regia VI: I’m done dancing to alarm bells—I’m done fighting off change.

Previous chapter // Next chapter // First chapter

Neuvillette x Fem!reader

Word count: 7.1k

The ball goes off without a hitch, and tide finally swells in, sweeping you up in its grasp.

Authors note: warning for a bit of anxiety in this. We have haikaveh, beiguang and some minor chilumi if you squint, among other guest appearances. THIS IS IT FOLKS! ALL THE PINING AND WAITING FINALLY COMES TO THIS. The smut will be next but i… still have to write it… lol.

“Is it ready?”

“Are you doubting my capabilities, Monsieur Neuvillette?”

“Ah, no, forgive my impatience, Miss Chiori.” 

Neuvillette paced the front reception of Chioriya boutique with swift steps as the young designer wrote on her notepad, looking over her books at the front desk. 

“If you keep pacing like that, you’ll burn skids into my cypress flooring.” 

He stopped, facing her. “My apologies.” 

The Inazuman woman continued her leisurely work, having told him that she would only be a moment longer many, many moments ago. 

He perked up when she set down her pen. 

“Did yours fit as it should? Nothing to alter?” 

“I put it all on the moment it arrived yesterday,” he said, watching as she rose. “It is perfect, as expected.”

“Such flattery.” Chiori clicked her tongue against her teeth, rounding the reception desk to walk towards the back. 

He thumbed the metal of his cane as he waited for her to return, a small blip of excitement rushing through him as the designer returned with a very large box, and a large dress bag on a velvet hanger. 

“The shoes are in the box with the cloak,” she said, disinterested. “All of it is to your specifications, and water resistant in case of rain, as you asked.” 

“Thank you, I’ll have your payment sent swiftly, with a generous tip for the short notice.” He said, taking the box and dress bag from her hands.

“Hmm.” Chiori looked unimpressed, though, that was how she usually looked. “Nearly everyone in the city who is attending the ball wanted to wear my designs, I had to deny several clients just to make time for these.” 

“Your graciousness knows no bounds, Miss Chiori.” 

She gave him a deadpan look, resting a hand on her hip. 

“In all the years I’ve been dressing you, I’ve never once had you so eager to dress someone else, let alone a woman.” 

He felt rather embarrassed, but resisted the urge to squirm under her gaze, clearing his throat and holding eye contact with a neutral expression. 

Chiori just sighed, rolling her eyes. He took that as his permission to leave, though he didn’t really need it. 

“I’ll see you at the ball, sir. I hope you enjoy yourself, and—“ 

He paused, turning to meet her eyes once more. 

“Happy birthday, Monsieur Neuvillette.” 

———————————-

You were late. 

Charlotte had run ahead of you, having helped you put your elaborate outfit together, makeup and all, and with her short red dress and tiny heeled boots she said it would be much easier for her to run ahead and make sure everything was going smoothly without you. 

Your new apartment was closer to the Palais than your old one, and you were eternally grateful for that as you rode the lift with a tapping foot. 

You’d all decided to hold the ball in the Palais Mermonia’s largest conference hall, the host of many of Lady Furinas parties in the past.  

You rushed to the doors, nodding politely to the usher outside who recognized you as one of the organizers and let you through to get out of the rain. You hoped desperately that it was a natural rainfall, and not the telltale sign that Neuvillette was under any kind of duress. 

That little epiphany had taken longer than you’d care to admit— his emotions being linked to the rain— but now that you knew, it was like a helpful little tool at your disposal. 

Your cloak dragged along the floor of the entrance, and you picked up your intricate dress to shuffle along faster to the conference hall. 

You breathed a sigh of relief when you met the melusines standing at the doors, they greeted you with smiles and rushed you through, telling you that everything was going wonderfully. 

You opened the doors, and the glittering assemblage greeted you once more, now ten times more opulent with all the equally beautiful guests filling the space. 

The elite of the elite were here, government officials, fontainian high society, well known adventurers and local legends, dignitaries from other nations— you could spot the infamous kamisato siblings by the drink station, wearing striking and intricate Kimonos that were surely designed by Chiori. 

The magic twins were doing a mini performance, Lyney in a burgundy tux and Lynette in a matching teal getup, only she was wearing a pretty skirt and stockings. You waved at them through the group that had formed, and Lyney gave you a little wink without losing his stride. 

“There you are!” Charlotte moved her way through the crowd to greet you, gesturing around to the ball in all its grandure. “This is incredible! Everything is going wonderful so far!”

It was incredible. You looked around at the regal decorations, the soft, warm lighting of the chandeliers, the silk hanging in deep arches lining the ceiling, the subtle hydro motifs in little places if you looked hard enough. 

It screamed royalty, it screamed wealth without seeming too ostentatious. It was truly the most opulent and beautiful party you’d ever been to, let alone helped organize.  

“Thank you, I wasn’t terribly worried though, I figured Lady Furina had things well under control.” You smiled. 

You could hear her voice, loud and clear above the gentle strings playing, and turned to look by the sweets table, to see your former archon entertaining some people with a story, quite animated, but not as much as she’d been in the past.

When working with her while planning the ball, you’d grown to realize that she’d become much more grounded since she stepped down, still dramatic in her own right, but more realistically so. More human. 

“Here,” Charlotte pulled you from your thoughts, gesturing with her hands. “Let me take your cloak, you should go and find Neuvillette.” 

“Oh,” you said. “Thank you.” 

You pulled the large hood down, freeing your hair from its protective cocoon. It had taken you and Charlotte nearly an hour to place all the tiny little multi-colored pearls in an intricate pattern all throughout the style, and you’d be damned if you were going to let the rain ruin it. 

You pulled the lush cloak from your shoulders, suddenly feeling a little self conscious out in the open.

You’d never owned a gown this beautiful, never worn something so stunning in your life. 

Lucious crushed blue velvet, though light and airy, hugged your torso and flared out into the most stunning ball gown you’d ever seen. A sheer panel decorated with lace created the high neckline, and with it being sleeveless, the stunning white gloves that came to your upper arms were a lovely addition. 

What was most jarring however was the very open and low back of the dress, perfectly balanced with the gigantic bow poised right above your bottom. It was truly a masterpiece, and you cannot believe that Neuvillette had something so beautiful made just for you.

You couldn’t deny your feelings any longer. You were completely infatuated with him, stricken with a fluttering heart whenever you thought of him, doomed to confront these feelings— and sooner, rather than later. 

It seemed they were reciprocated, but you could never be too sure. Insecurity and anxiety still ate at you. Neuvillette was still a bit of an enigma, never forward or clear on if his advances were truly courtship, or if he just did friendship more intensely than most, due to his inexperience with all kinds of relationships in general. 

You smoothed your hands over your dress, feeling yourself start to sweat a little in your satin gloves. You looked around, craning your neck to see if you could spot him, and oh— there he was.

He was standing at the back of the hall, by the table of honor, set specifically for the man of the hour and those closest to him, mainly yourself, Wriothesley, the traveler, Lady Furina and a good number of melusine. 

Neuvillette reached up to fuss with Wriothesley’s tie, which was perpetually loose in his day to day outfits, and it seemed it was no different for this occasion. 

Wriothesley was wearing a striking outfit, which was really just a more elevated version of his regular look, complete with a fur lined cape and quite an intense pair of boots, but if you were honest, the look worked for him. 

He flushed and laughed Neuvillette off, pushing his hands away to fix his own tie, smoothing down his slicked back hair, which was a nice addition to the look. Was that a touch of eyeliner? 

Your gaze finally roamed onto Neuvillette himself. He looked… well he looked even more handsome than he usually did, and that was certainly saying something.

You felt your chest tighten as you drank in his visage from head to toe. 

His normal dress wear was certainly high fashion, but this look was something out of a runway show. 

An opulent suit, perfectly altered and in his colors, but what stood out was the single shoulder capelet, attached with an intricate gold clasp, and the stunning blue fabric rippled like water as it flowed down his arm and back, trailing elegantly on the floor behind him. His hair had been slicked back as well, a single curl present at his forehead that seemed to deny its place pulled back to be braided into the rest of his hair. 

The braid was long, tied with his signature bow at the bottom and decorated with lots of the same multi-colored pearls that dotted your own hairstyle, and you blushed at the thought. 

Now that you looked, you realized that his outfit and yours had nearly identical color schemes, down to the black bow sitting at the small of your back, the same color and fabric as the one holding his braid. 

The final touch was the circlet he had on, a delicate gold piece that only added to his air of regality. As you trailed your gaze over his face, his subtle eye makeup, his eyes met yours. 

Your breath caught in your chest.

His eyes devoured you, so intense you felt like you were drowning. 

He moved then, walking towards you with a determination you’d not seen in him, and you froze for a moment before your feet pulled you to him, enraptured by his beauty and wanting to see more, wanting to see it closer. 

As he took his final step, you held your breath as you realized he was so close that your dress pushed up against him, your chest nearly bumping into him as you stuttered out your exhale. 

His pupils dilated, the thin slits nearly consuming his eyes as they flickered across your face. 

“You look…” you paused, looking for the words. 

“Beautiful,” He said, breathless. “Absolutely beautiful.” 

You grinned. “I don’t know if beautiful is the word I would have used, but I’m glad you like the way you look tonight too, Neuvillette.” 

The faintest hint of pink fluttered across his cheeks, but he maintained his composure, lifting one of your gloved hands into his, bringing it to his lips for a chaste kiss on your knuckles that made your heart skip a beat. His eyes remained on yours the entire time.

“I know you jest, just as I know you are aware I was describing how you look this evening.” He smiled. “Positively radiant. I am glad the gown was to your liking.” 

You flushed, looking down at your dress, your gloved hand resting in his— even still. 

“You really didn’t have to get this for me.” 

“Nonsense,” he said. “You expressed concern at what you were to wear to this event, and after all the effort you were exuding at my expense, I wished to take that worry off your shoulders.” 

“Even so…” your eyes couldn’t meet his no matter how hard you tried. You were so flustered, so swept up in this rushing tide of a moment. 

“You are more than deserving,” Neuvillette bent down further, trying to catch your gaze. “Of this and more.”  

You finally broke, meeting his eyes once more. His gaze was so intense, so consuming. You were nearly certain that he felt the same way you did, but you wanted to be sure before you made a fool of yourself tonight.

”Neuvillette,” you said, eyes flickering between his. “I need to ask you—“

The ringing of metal against delicate glass broke you both from each other, the entire hall of beautifully dressed guests turning to see Lady Furina perched atop a table, tapping a fork against her champagne glass. 

Her gown was beautiful, less extravengent than ones you’d seen in the papers after her own birthday celebrations, but more elegant and poise. It suited her. 

“Treasured guests, friends and colleagues.” She started, gathering the people's attention in its entirety as her voice projected throughout the hall. “If we could gather around, I’d like to give a toast before we start the first dances!” 

The music was halted, people moving from their little groups to merge around the table, gazing up at the former archon. 

Neuvillette guided you along, standing off to Furina’s right to watch with a delicate smile as she waited for the people to settle. 

Across the little stage she had created for herself, you saw the traveler fussing with the suit jacket of a tall red haired man who was grinning down at her without a care in the world. You think you recognize him as the Harbinger Tartaglia, but the traveler knew all kinds of interesting characters, so you couldn't be too sure. 

She looked lovely tonight as well, trading her otherworldly daily outfit for a pretty pale blue gown with flowing bishop sleeves, a white pearl necklace and bracelet. You thought it looked very easy to move around in, and surmised that she probably did that on purpose, in case of an unexpected emergency. 

Lumine had been a huge help during the planning and organization of this event, tackling the odd jobs and running around with practiced ease, smiling and dragging her companions around while doing it. 

You saw the representatives from Mondstadt, Kaeya Alberich and Lisa Minci. They were already holding mostly empty wine glasses, dressed sharply and eyeing the crowds with gazes far too calculating for people who were surely a couple drinks into their evening. They were trusted folk though, if the travelers word was anything to go by, so you supposed they were keeping an eye out for any signs of impending disaster, just like the rest of you planned to. 

Tonight had to go perfectly. With Neuvillettes' apprehension to have this gathering in the first place, if tonight ended in disaster it would surely put an end to the idea of any other celebrations in his honor for the future. 

The traveler assured you that the people invited would not only never dream of causing issues, but would actively help to keep things running smoothly, thanks to her letters requesting so. 

Furina started her toast, a fanciful and long worded piece that she’d spent weeks practicing, and you eyed the crowds again as you stood beside Neuvillette. Everything was fine. Everything was going well. 

“To conclude,” Lady Furina smiled. “I cannot think of a better person to look after my most beloved nation, take care of its people, and uphold the principles of justice so integral to its well being. Honored guests, please give a warm round of applause to the man of the hour, Monsieur Neuvillette!” 

The hall erupted into polite but eager applause. She gestured to him, beckoning him over to the table. As opposed to standing up with her, he offered a gloved hand to help her down, murmuring a thank you to her as he stood in front of all the people who had come to celebrate him. Furina took his spot beside you, a little giddy with excitement at the fact that she’d convinced him to give a speech. 

“Thank you all for joining us tonight,” his voice boomed throughout the hall, just like it did during trials— commanding the attention of all who heard it. “As much as I was resistant to the idea of a celebration so grand, I will admit that this opportunity to have so many representatives from other nations gathered in one place is extremely important to the betterment of our connections as the people of Teyvat.”

A tiny voice rang out from somewhere in the crowd that sounded an awful lot like Seigewinne. “You just want the opportunity to keep working when you’re supposed to be celebrating!” 

Polite laughter rang through the crowd, and even Neuvillette cracked a bit of a smile. 

“I will neither confirm nor deny such an accusation.” He said, clearing his throat. “Regardless, I am grateful. I wish for you all to enjoy the festivities, and have a pleasant evening. Please remember to drink responsibly.” 

The hall filled with applause once more. Furina giggled and stood to the front, capturing the people's attention once again with ease. 

“Alright everyone! Please mingle a moment longer while the orchestra finishes setting up, and the first dances will begin shortly!” 

The crowd dispersed, and Neuvillette shuffled his way back to you despite people trying to capture his attention. 

“Would you do me a favor?” He asked. 

“Of course.” 

He smiled. “The foreign dignitaries are going to want to come and greet me, and I would appreciate it if you stood by my side while exchanging pleasantries.”

“Oh? Is someone nervous all of a sudden?” you grinned, feeling your chest flutter. 

“Ah,” his expression read that he knew you were teasing, but the little cringe was enough to tell you’d guessed at least somewhat correctly. “Not exactly, but as my assistant it will be vital for you to form positive relationships with these people as well.” 

You nodded, and he exhaled his relief just as a tall silver haired man strode over with all the confidence and aloofness of Neuvillette on his best days. A very pretty blonde man trailed beside him wearing an elaborate and expensive looking getup with a beautifully coloured feather in his hair. The pair seemed odd, but looked every bit like the elite couples that surrounded them. 

“Monsieur Neuvillette, it’s an Honor.” the gray haired man spoke, reaching out a green gloved hand adorned with gold rings. Neuvillette obliged, shaking his hand with a nod. “My name is Alhaitham, I am currently the acting grand sage of Sumeru’s Akademiya. I’m here on behalf of Lord Kusanali to congratulate you on your new position as ruler of Fontaine.” The man's voice seemed a little disinterested, but he was otherwise very polite. 

“Alhaitham, thank you for attending.” Neuvillette said. “I’ve heard about what you did for your archon and nation, and I must commend you for your integrity and courage.”

The acting grand sages eyes rolled ever so slightly, and you couldn't help but be reminded of the poise and grace that Neuvillette had when he blessed you with such an action.  

“Please, sir. I simply did not want to deal with the aftermath of what they were planning. In all honesty, I was hoping to be responsible for much less in the fallout, but here I am— regardless.”

The blond man smacked his arm, tutting at him disapprovingly. “Stop that!” He turns to Neuvillette with an apologetic look. 

“I’m so sorry Monsieur,” the blond says. “What Alhaitham means to say is thank you, and we are both very grateful to be here.” 

Alhaitham rolls his eyes once more, shoving the blond man forward a bit towards Neuvillette, “this is my plus-one for the evening, Kaveh.” 

Neuvillette takes his hand, shaking it gently. “The light of Kshawrewar, I’ve seen photographs of your work at Port Ormos and the Palace of Alcazarzaray, and read many of your papers on the value of creativity in architecture. It is a delight to finally meet you.” 

Kaveh’s face becomes incredibly red, and you feel for him, knowing how intense it can be when Neuvillette is face to face, complimenting you without reservation. 

“Oh, I—“ he stutters. “Thank you sir, I’m d-deeply honored.” 

“Would you consider taking some time to collaborate with some of our engineers here in Fontaine? There is much that needs to be rebuilt after the great flood, and your artistic flair will fit in most wonderfully with our brightest creatives.” 

“Oh—“ Kaveh looks like he might pass out. “I would love to!” 

“Wonderful.” Neuvillette turns and introduces you to the two of them, who give you polite nods in return. 

“She will get in contact with you in the coming weeks to arrange a proposal. As my assistant, most of the dialogue for such projects falls into her field of work, but I will be keeping a close eye on whatever may become of your collaborations, rest assured.” Neuvillette said, placing a hand on the small of your back. 

You tried to ignore the heat from his gloved palm resting against your skin, your bare skin, but you involuntarily shivered, making Neuvillette flinch a bit and pull his hand away, much to your simultaneous relief and displeasure. 

The acting grand sage, Alhaitham, seemed to look between you a bit strangely, as if making calculations in his head, but the moment he noticed your eyes on him, he steadied his expression once more. 

“I’m sure Kaveh will be most enthused and honored by such an invitation. I’ll ensure he responds in a timely manner.”  Alhaitham spoke for the architect, who still seemed a bit awestruck and speechless. 

“If you’ll excuse us,” Alhaitham took the blond by the arm, nodding politely as he guided the wide eyed Kaveh off, murmuring to him in hushed tones. 

“They seem like an odd pair.” Neuvillette mumbled to himself. 

“I think they compliment each other quite nicely.” You smiled, watching them walk off. Neuvillette looked at you a little oddly, but you only glanced at him before the dispersing crowd caught your eye. 

The conductor of the orchestra had taken their position, waiting patiently as the noise died down. 

“To begin, a requested song, to honor the Iudex.” Neuvillette seemed a bit taken aback as the conductor spoke, but the crowd pushed back to open the dance floor as the first notes of the song rang out. 

Your eyes immediately found Wriothesley, recognizing the song as his favorite, the one he played the evening that Neuvillette pulled him away from you so abruptly. The night that you got caught in the rain with Neuvillette, hunkering down in his house to wait out the storm. The evening that changed everything. 

The Duke, much to his credit, just winked at you, gesturing with a little nod of his head as if to say well? Get on that dance floor! 

You gaped at him, confused before turning to find Neuvillette bent slightly, elegantly at the waist, holding out a single gloved hand as he looked up at you with hopeful eyes. 

“May I have the honor of this first dance?” He asked. 

Your face felt hot, all these eyes on you, but you wanted this, so you took his hand. 

“I’d like that, yes.” You said softly. 

He guided you to the center of the dance floor, placing a gentle hand on the small of your back. You rested one hand on his shoulder and the other sat diligently in his palm, and he pulled you just a little bit closer, feeling your chest brush up against him. 

Everything around you seemed to blur as he held your gaze, guiding you into the steps of a very simple waltz. You’d not really danced before, only when fooling around with friends, pretending. 

Neuvillette made it easy, his secure hold on you made you feel safe, like even if you slipped, he would keep you steady. 

His eyes pulled yours in with a magnitude unlike anything you’d ever experienced before. His gaze was so intense, it threatened to take your breath away. 

“Neuvillette, sir.” You breathed. 

He smiled fondly at you, continuing his expert guidance of you to the song Wriothesley had picked for this moment. 

“I think we're beyond the honorifics and titles by now, yes?” 

His smile seemed almost teasing, a lightness to his expression you’d rarely ever seen before. 

“That's…” you flushed, looking away from him just for a moment. “That’s precisely what we need to talk about.” 

He chuckled, spinning you around as other couples began to join you on the floor, gliding and twirling around with each other as the music swayed and swelled. 

“We need to speak about your use of titles? “ he said, eyes glittering with mirth. “I suppose when in the office, or in the opera house, they’ll still be appropriate.” 

“No—“ you stammered, nearly tripping over his shoe, but he kept you steady, stepping into the movement like it never happened, his hand firm on the skin of your lower back. “That’s not what I meant and you know it.” 

He looked so beautiful in this moment, the gold on him shimmered in the warm lighting, his eyes twinkling with so much emotion, so much power. He was every bit the regal leader he showed to the outside world, but inside, he was so much more. 

“Perhaps.” He said, teasingly. He leaned a bit closer to your ear. “Perhaps I wish to just savor this moment for a while longer. Would you allow me that privilege?” 

“I…” you felt a little confused, a little dumbstruck. “Of course.” You wanted to enjoy this moment as well, but your heart yearned to know the truth. 

Did he truly feel the same way as you? Is that what this was? 

But you still couldn’t understand why he was avoiding the conversation you were clearly trying to have. 

Could it be because he knew your feelings and… didn’t return them like you thought? Was he trying to get through the night without hurting you? Is that what he meant? That he wished to savor this evening without your pesky feelings getting in the way?

Your thoughts began to spiral, but he kept you steady as the song neared its conclusion. You were glad he had pulled you closer so he couldn't see the worry work itself over your face. All signs pointed that your feelings were reciprocated, but what if you were just deluding yourself?

No, I can’t keep thinking this way. I’ll ruin the whole evening at this rate. 

The song flourished into its ending and Neuvillette gave you one last delicate spin before he pulled back and gave the customary bow. 

You curtsied, hoping to hide the anxiety that was eating at you. 

The second song of the evening began, and the clicking of heels caught your attention, turning you around.

the most beautiful and elegant woman you’d ever seen was striding up to you, a tall and muscular dark haired woman in tow. 

The woman in front had luscious pale white hair, her ruby eyes sparkling with intelligence as she looked between you and Neuvillette. She was dressed to the nines; elegant jewels covering her throat and wrists, stunning and intricate hair ornaments, the most gorgeous golden gown, skin tight and showing off her immaculate body. You suddenly felt very self conscious, squirming where you stood as she and her companion drew closer.  

She came to a stop in front of you, nodding at Neuvillette. 

“May I steal your lovely little assistant for this next dance?” Her voice even sounded rich, like she was someone incredibly important, incredibly powerful. 

Neuvillette tensed a bit, his hand still holding yours, bit he breathed, guiding you towards the golden woman. “By all means, enjoy yourselves.” 

“Good.” She took your hand, nodding to her companion. “Beidou, please entertain the Iudex, talk of trade or whatever strikes your fancy.” 

She pulled you along, guiding you into a new section of the dancefloor and immediately took up the position of the guiding role, pulling you this way and that, though very elegantly, and with practiced ease. 

“It’s lovely to finally meet the infamous little assistant.” She said, her ruby eyes glittering. 

You felt like you had a frog in your throat. “I’m sorry, I’m afraid I’m not sure who you are, miss.” 

“Ah,” she smiled. “You can call me Ningguang. I run some… business in Liyue, and I'm hoping to better my connections with our neighbors by the sea, so to speak.” 

Ningguang… where had you heard that name before? 

“Ah, then I suppose I’m your gal,” you smiled, feeling a little more at ease. A little. “Most trade negotiations come through me before they reach the Iudex.” 

“As I expected. I just wished to meet the person I would be sending my offers to, I would like to know who I’m in business with, you understand.” 

You nodded. “Of course, that’s completely understandable.”

”You're such a sweet little thing.” She smiled at you, and you still couldn't shake the feeling you knew her from somewhere. A woman with this aura of importance surely couldn't just be a merchant from liyue. 

You let your eyes roam past her shoulder, catching glimpses of her companion speaking with Neuvillette, laughing loudly at something he said and smacking the man on the shoulder in her amusement. 

He looked shocked, but was unmoving, a polite smile on his face. 

“So,” Ningguang said. “How long have you two been in love?”

You did trip this time, but she caught you, the sharps of her hand jewelry digging into your skin ever so slightly. 

“I beg your pardon?” You squeaked. 

She laughed, it was a rich and lucious melody you’d never heard in a laugh before. 

“Oh please, anyone with eyes can see the way he postures over you like a dog guarding a bone,” her gaze turned mischievous, then. “Or a dragon hoarding its treasure.” 

She must’ve felt the way you tensed, the slight quirk of your brow as she said it, because her eyes thinned with amusement, though you weren’t sure if it was on your behalf or at your expense. 

You continued the dance in relative silence, and when the song ended, and she pulled you by your hand back towards Neuvillette and her companion, Beidou. 

She gave a dramatic bow at the waist, bringing your hand to her lips. “Thank you for indulging me, little one.” She pressed a kiss onto the white satin of your glove, her red lipstick only leaving the faintest of marks. “The information you gave me was most insightful.” 

You blushed intensely, not having the words to respond, so you just nodded, giving a light curtsy. 

“Congratulations, Monsieur, and Happy Birthday.” she said to Neuvillette. 

He bowed, very respectful. “Thank you, Lady Ningguang.” 

She dragged her companion away towards the drink table, and it suddenly hit you. 

“That was…” holy celestia. 

“Lady Ningguang, the Tianquan of the Liyue Qixing, yes.” Neuvillette sighed. 

“And you let me dance with her without a warning?!” You whisper-yelled. 

Neuvillette seemed to shake some unwanted emotions off, steadying himself with a heavy grip on his ornamental cane. “Lady Ningguang is not one to be denied such simple requests, and besides,” he looked down at you. “I thought you knew.” 

“Pardon me for not expecting to be asked to dance by the leader of a nation.” You grumbled slightly. 

Neuvillette laughed, short and quick before he covered it with a cough— clearing his throat. 

“And what is so amusing?” You looked up at him expectantly, a little taken aback at how open and soft his expression was. 

“She’s only the second leader of a nation to ask you for a dance, my dear. I had the privilege of being the first.” 

Your stomach did somersaults at his words, the tone of his voice, his eyes fluttering all across your exposed skin. You felt hot, so very hot. 

“What information did you give her?” Neuvillette asked, though it lacked an accusatory tone. 

“I didn’t really say anything to her,” you mumbled. “Though I think she suspects you to be a dragon.” 

He scoffed a little, voice low and teasing. “And I wonder what kind of woman would ever come to that conclusion, hmm?” 

Your stomach decided it was some sort of acrobat, and your thighs quivered. 

“Excuse me a moment, I’m going to get a drink.” You managed to squeak out. “Would you like one?” 

“Water, if you would.” 

—————————————————————————————

He had only had a moment of reprieve from the people wishing to speak with him when a firm hand landed on his shoulder. 

“I hate to break it to you, but you’re a fuckin’ moron.” 

His eyes ached in their sockets from the tremendous side-eye he was giving to the Duke of Meropide. 

Wriothesley had wrapped his arm around Neuvillettes shoulders, jostling the fine Snezhnayan melt he was savoring in his goblet right before he was interrupted. 

“I understand we’ve opened our relationship to discussions outside of work topics, Wriothesley, but I don't think that kind of language is appropriate, regardless of our status as friends.”  

“What, like you’ve never said the word ‘fuck’ before?” Wriothesley teased. 

Neuvillette scoffed, taking a sip of his water and hoping Wriothesley didn’t see the pink threatening to color the tips of his ears. 

“Well, either way.” The Duke sighed, though his signature teasing grin was still ever present.  “Are you dumb or just blind?” 

Neuvillette sighed, his eyes fluttering shut. “What could possibly warrant such childish insults, Wriothesley?” 

“You're telling me you haven’t noticed the way she’s been eyeing you all night? And you still haven’t confessed?” 

Neuvillette gaped at the Duke before his eyes flitted around the room, catching you watching them for a brief second before your eyes slipped away, back to focusing on the conversation you were having with Miss Navia. 

“She’s been looking at you like you hung the stars in the sky for her since the moment she walked in here,” Wriothesley said. “And if I may be so bold, you’ve been eyeing her like you want to swallow her whole since that very same moment.” 

“Preposterous.” Neuvillette scoffed. “Such salacious accusations.” 

“I’m just saying, man.” Neuvillette winced a bit as Wriothesley squeezed his shoulder. “Knowing her, she’s agonizing over whether her feelings are reciprocated, or if she’s just fooling herself into thinking that you’re looking at her the way you are.” 

“You—“ Neuvillette stopped, registering the Duke's words. “Surely you're not serious?” 

“Deadly serious,” Wriothesley said. “She thinks she shouldn’t have the feelings she does, and she’ll keep telling herself that all the gifts and the touches and the looks are just her brain playing tricks on her, making it something it's not.” 

“But…” Neuvillette didn’t have the words. Did you truly doubt him? Has he not been expressing his attempts to court you well enough? 

“Don’t try to over analyze it, don’t try to ask why.” Wriothesley looked a little stern then. “Her childhood left her with a lot of anxiety, a lot of self doubt. She won't ever think she’s worthy unless you tell her upfront that she is.” 

“She’s more than worthy… I thought I—“ 

“I know, I know.” Wriothesley sighed. “She needs it spelled out nice and clear for her though. You need to tell her how you feel.” 

“And you’re certain she feels the same way?” Neuvillette was hesitating though he was almost certain by now. His subtle attempts at courtship were accepted, reciprocated, even though he wasn’t sure you realized that's what you were doing. 

You flushed when he complimented you, shivered when his touch would graze you, you cared for him, cared about him. Surely you felt the same as he? 

“She hasn’t been this way about a person ever, Neuvillette, you’ve gotta know that.” Wriothesley said, patting him on the back. “It’s only ever been you. In all the years I've known her, it's never happened. Until now.” 

The Duke left him to ruminate over the weight of his words. Time seemed to slow for him, and he wasn’t sure if he had the courage to do what needed to be done. 

Sure, the subtle flirting, something he didn't realize he knew how to do until Sedene pointed it out— that was alright, he enjoyed watching you get flustered, enjoyed that delicious smell that followed you when your cheeks grew heated. 

He danced with you, because everything in his body screamed for your touch, and that was an appropriate excuse to hold you close. 

But to actually confess his feelings? Something he didn't think he would have to do? 

But really— what did he think was going to happen? That he would continue prancing around, pretending to be fine with just giving you gifts and receiving your dutiful attention in the office, then going home alone to wallow in his suffering? 

No, he wanted you, he’d come to that conclusion a long time ago, but he just couldn’t bring himself to admit it. 

He went through the motions of the rest of the evening with a fine glaze over his eyes, not really interested, but pretending to enjoy himself lest his guests become offended. He danced with Lady Furina, had snacks and desserts with the traveler and that harbinger, Tartaglia, who only made subtle comments asking for a sort of rematch, though Neuvillette wouldn’t really classify what happened between them as a battle. It was more of a silencing of a wild animal, putting a stop to something causing too much commotion for his liking. Regardless, he was civil, but he couldn’t help but look for you in his peripherals, and every time he would look, you’d be looking too, shyly avoiding his gaze at the last second. 

By the seven, he wanted you. He’d curse himself thrice over for ever letting you think you were unworthy of feeling his affections. Of caring for him in return. 

The ball started to die down, and he found himself starting to get restless, his instincts were itching and pulling at his skin, making him want to act instead of just standing there. Finally he broke, finding you in the thinning crowd and resting a hand on the small of your back, reveling in the heat from your bare skin against his glove. 

“Would you be interested in accompanying me on my walk home? Perhaps stay a bit for some tea?” he asked, softly as to not let others hear. 

“You’re wanting to go home already?” You turned to him, smirking. “Ah… I suppose you’ve lasted long enough.” 

“Do you think if we snuck out now, we could avoid Furina spotting us?” he asked, revealing that he’d already grabbed your cloak and his coat from the check. 

You giggled behind a satin glove, looking around a bit before you spotted the former archon across the room. 

You subtly flagged down the traveler, leaning in to whisper in her ear. The blonde nodded, making a beeline for Furina, guiding her away from the eye line of the door and out of sight. 

“Lumine is going to cover for us.” You whispered, grabbing his arm. “Let’s go, quick!’ 

You both made a hasty escape out of the conference hall, walking to the entrance of the Palais before you realized it was still raining. 

Neuvillette graciously slipped your cloak around your shoulders, and you shuddered as his fingertips brushed your bare skin, making him shudder as well, suppressing the urge to purr in delight. 

He pulled your hood up around your hair, making sure the bow in front was secure before pulling on his coat. 

“Are you ready?” He asked, gesturing to the downpour. 

You smiled, “You know I love the rain.”

He grabbed your hand, smiling as you squealed as you both ran out into the storm. You otherwise would have been soaked to the bone, shivering from the cold, but he’d requested both of the outfits to be made entirely waterproof, so the droplets merely rolled right off the both of you. 

It didn't stop the wind from pulling at your hood, making you giggle as you tried to keep it down over your hair. 

His hair was soaked, and as he guided you along the darkened streets, only the lamps illuminating your path, you spoke out to him. 

“Are you sure this isn’t one of your rain storms?” 

“I assure you it’s most natural.” He said, raising his voice above the sound of the water hitting the pavement. “I technically could stop it, if you’d like.” 

“No,” you giggled, looking up at him as you walked swiftly alongside him, still hand in hand. “I was just making sure you’re happy.” 

He stopped, taking in your words. You turned to look at him, pulling your hand free from his grip. 

“You are happy, yes?” You asked. 

“I’ve never been happier, I think.” He said, just soft enough you could barely hear it over the rain. 

“Neuvillette—“ you said as he grabbed your hand, trying to pull you along once more. 

“Come, let’s get to the house,” he said, “I need to tell you something.” 

“Neuvillette,” you stopped him, pulling free once more. 

He turned around to face you, feeling a little taken aback at how serious you looked. You were so beautiful, standing in the rain like this, eyes filled with determination. 

“Neuvillette, I—“

he interrupted you, “come, let's get to the house, we can speak ther—“

”I think I'm in love with you!” You shouted over the rain. 

He gaped at you, eyes wide with shock for a moment. He never…. He never expected you to say it, not now at least. 

“I’m in love with you.” You reiterated. 

You looked fearful, but yet so brave. Beautiful, enticing. You were everything. 

His chest pulled, and he found himself walking toward you at a near impossible speed, and before he knew exactly what he was doing, his hands were cupping your face and he was pulling you against him to press his mouth to yours. 

You made the cutest squeaking sound, but melted into his touch nearly immediately. The kiss grew deeper, and he found himself pulling you closer, touching you further. The hood of your cloak fell down, letting your hair join his in the exposure of the rain, the water dripping down your faces as he pulled and took and kissed you. The fire burning deep within him roared, the waters churning violently against their confinement. 

He wanted to devour you whole in this moment, and he picked you up, pulling his arms under your bottom to hold you even closer, kiss even deeper. 

You moaned out as his teeth knicked at your lips, he hadn’t even realized they’d grown sharper in the moments he’d been consuming you. He was losing his grip on his form, you were unraveling him at the seams. 

“I am also in love with you, if you hadn’t already surmised.” He mumbled against your lips as he pulled back. 

“Take me to your house, Neuvillette.” You breathed against him. “I want that tea you promised me.” 

He grinned. “You’ll get your tea, and so much more, my darling.” 

——————-

[wistfulcynic]

a non-izzy-centric reading of the events of season two

i didn't really want to get into this because it's so, so tiresome and i'd rather talk about the things i loved about this season. Poison, positivity, etc. But.

reading this post about people doubting their own judgement due to the overwhelming noise from Izzy stans along with a rewatch of season two from start to finish made me realise that i too had been influenced by a year and a half of being intensely frustrated by people insisting so loudly that OFMD was in fact the Izzy Hands Show. My initial issues with S2 mostly stemmed from overcompensating for that by resenting any development of Izzy on the screen because i did not want it to feed those people. Which meant that i also was centring Izzy in a way that he should not be centred! i was letting their noise lead me to read him as far more important than he actually is.

So i looked back at several points from the season that had me feeling uncomfortable and which, from a cursory browse through the Izzy tag i've concluded his stans see as a contradiction or a betrayal or something and re-evaluated them from the perspective of Izzy not being a main fucking character.

point one: "He's our dick."

When Archie (a newcomer and therefore a fairly effective audience stand-in for anyone not balls deep in fandom bullshit) asks Jim why they're going to so much trouble for Izzy, who she has immediately clocked as "kind of a dick", Jim gives this response. Which, if you think Izzy is important, may read as an expression of reluctant fondness. But then, Jim continues: "There was a time when life meant something on this ship. When we lived for each other, not just to survive." These lines are punctuated by a flashback to the famous Revenge crew found-family Renaissance-painting moment. Jim is nostalgic for the "good old days" of the Revenge under Stede's people-positive management style. It is out of respect for that (seemingly) lost way of life that they take the trouble for Izzy, not for Izzy himself. They'd have done the same for anyone, because they desperately want life to matter again. Izzy, as the person whose gamy leg is a direct result of his threatening Ed and bringing the kraken era down on all of them, is simply the one whose life happens to be on the line.

(honestly, i love this from Jim, who was one of Stede's boldest detractors in season one and still the crew member most likely to call him out on his bullshit. That's your "reluctant fondness" moment right there.)

point two: the new unicorn

apparently Izzy stans see the gift of the unicorn leg prosthetic as a symbol of deep love and respect from the crew to Izzy. Which is an absolutely wild reading when you look at what led up to it.

There's tension on the ship. Divisions. Lucius is chain-smoking and jump-scared by his own shadow. Jim, Archie, Frenchie, and Fang are overcome by guilt over their mutiny and frantically scrubbing nonexistent blood from the deck in what is a fantastically darkly funny Lady Macbeth moment for them. Izzy is sloppy drunk and yelling nonsensical abuse at the unicorn masthead. Roach, Pete, Oluwande, and Wee John make a well-intentioned but ill-conceived attempt to bring everyone back together (i say "everyone" but Izzy, significantly, is not included) which leads to them all being at each other's throats in the sort of mutually-assured-destruction configuration that starts world wars. It's a great scene. Izzy is not a part of it.

until he interrupts them, throws the unicorn legs at them and in his drunken clumsiness breaks his prosthetic. He then pointedly refuses their offers of assistance and drags himself away along the floor by his arms.

my friends. This is peak pathos. The crew do not respect Izzy in this moment, they feel sorry for him. They realise that he's worse off than any of the rest of them and that knowledge brings them back together. Making the unicorn prosthetic is barely about Izzy at all. It's about the crew coming together, repairing the rifts in their found family and as a bonus helping out their grumpy second cousin who doesn't really want to be there but has nowhere else to go. It's also a very generous offer of a new place on the ship--as the new unicorn--and a fresh start. Because that's what life on the Revenge is. For everyone.

point three: la vie en rose

much has been made of Izzy putting on drag makeup and singing at the Calypso birthday party, and fair enough. That's a big character development point for him. i don't hate it, though i wish there'd been more build-up to it, a longer conversation between Izzy and Wee John at least (insert obligatory "fuck Max" here) but regardless, if we accept Izzy's amputated leg as cutting off his old self and replacing it with the unicorn then we can arrive at a place where he's able to participate in a drag performance without too much cognitive gymnastics.

i've written before about the curious choice to have Izzy sing La Vie En Rose in French (after he initially sang it in English) at the very moment when Ed and Stede are having sex for the first time. On first watch i felt viscerally troubled by it, it felt like a validation of the obsessive psychosexual reading of Izzy's feelings for Ed. Looking at the season as a whole, it feels more like a (cringy, creepy, waaaay over the line) attempt on his part to signal approval for Ed and Stede's relationship. Especially when taken in conjunction with his (super creepy, like wtf who greenlit this) interruption of their breakfast in bed the next morning to make a ham-fisted innuendo. Weird but okay i guess, it's not like Izzy and social niceties have ever gone hand in hand.

many people point to the drag scene as the crew embracing Izzy and welcoming him as one of them. Again, i don't disagree. But, also again, this is not specific to Izzy. This is just what they do. They also embraced Archie with her snake-cult stories, they re-embraced Ed (who yes, they do love, refutations of arguments that they don't love Ed are a whole other essay though) and later they embrace Zheng and Auntie and also Jackie who once stole their savings jar and threatened to cut off their noses. That's what they do! They embrace people! That's what the show is about!

point four: the death scene

i have to be honest, i still hate this. i don't hate that Izzy died, i hate that he died in Ed's arms with Ed calling him his only family. That still feels unearned to me, and alas was probably another victim of the shortened season. But even with this extremely kind and forgiving death scene, the stans are not satisfied! They feel that the entire crew should have been gathered round, assuring Izzy of their profound love for him. There should have been weeping at the funeral, wailing and gnashing of teeth, rending of garments etc. It's what he deserves as such a beloved member of the crew!

except he wasn't beloved. He was accepted, yes. Welcomed, even. But acceptance is a far cry from love. Cheering as someone sings a song at a party does not mean you feel ready to weep at their deathbed or proclaim your undying affection for them.

yet even so, the crew are visibly distraught at his death scene. There are tears in many eyes! But effusive declarations of feeling from any one of them other than Ed would have felt (to anyone not convinced Izzy is the main character) completely wrong and very weird. You can headcanon what you like to fill the gaps in canon but on screen we have seen very few meaningful interactions between Izzy and any of the existing crew aside from Fang and Lucius and to a lesser extent Wee John. Izzy's primary relationship with another character is with Ed and so, as much as i still don't like it, Ed is the only one who has any real reason to be at Izzy's side as he dies.

as for the brevity of the funeral and the fact that they went straight from it to Pete and Lucius's wedding instead of having, idk, a prolonged wake at which everyone speaks at length about how important Izzy was to them, i mean. Obviously that wasn't going to happen. More than enough screen time had already been given to a side character who spent most of it either being miserable himself or making others so. It was time for the rest of them to find some moments of joy. As Izzy himself said, not moving on is worse.

in conclusion, i'd like to address the people saying that Izzy should have lived so he could continue his arc of self-discovery and sure, that would have been great--on the Izzy Hands Show. But OFMD is about Ed and Stede and Izzy had served his purpose in their story. i feel certain there will be copious fanfics to soothe anyone who feels Izzy was shortchanged.

on the show, though, he was treated in a very logical and foreseeable way as the antagonist who was able to see the light at the end but not necessarily to thrive in such a well-lit environment. Literature (by which i mean also films and tv) abounds with examples of this sort of character. They see the error of their ways but they are too stuck in them, shaped by them, to exist comfortably in any other way. They help bring about change to benefit others and not for themselves, that is the bittersweet beauty of their endings.

Izzy let Ed go. He embraced the softer parts of himself. He died surrounded by people who may not have loved him but at least accepted him as one of their own and felt genuine sorrow about his passing. That is a satisfying narrative end for a reformed antagonist! If you truly feel that he was shortchanged by it then you have forgotten what show you're watching and what sort of character he was.

Izzy Hands: not the main character, still an interesting one, absolute nightmare, what a guy.

[abyssalzones]

3 and 7 for wendy if ur still doing the character ask thing!!

finally I get to talk about one of the girls

3. Least favorite canon thing about this character?

the misogyny in gf's writing always makes me extremely sad. this goes for most if not all of the female characters in the show but I think wendy suffers from it most heavily as the object of dipper's affection. she's cool, sure, but she isn't really allowed her own ambitions or weird stand-out traits the same way other characters are. wouldn't it have been way more interesting for dipper (and by extension the audience) to start seeing her more as her own person once his crush on her becomes old news? ...of course, that leads me into my other point, which is that it was incredibly lazy to continue the plot thread of ~dipper's crush on wendy~ after that arc had been neatly closed off. roadside attraction was a mistake and I would have gladly traded it for that scrapped episode about stan and wendy pulling off a heist.

I suppose the real problem here is that almost everything we know about wendy seems to be through dipper's interest in her, so there isn't a lot of room for her to be anything except Badass(tm). let her be weird! there's literally nothing weirder than being a teenage girl!!

7. What's something the fandom does when it comes to this character that you like?

It's so much more difficult to find things I like about fandom portrayals than things I dislike, but I am a fan of the almost universal understanding that wendy is a lesbian. I'm also glad trans headcanons are fairly popular for her, I think it makes her confiding in dipper about being taller than all her brothers very fun (and the common theme in gf of characters bonding over being considered 'freaks' always resonated with me in a trans interpretation way).

[jungshookz]

apparently y/n's really good with toddlers and jimin thinks it's adorable

➺ pairing; balletteacher!jimin x ballerina!y/n

➺ genre; alright balletteacher!jimin stans since the last update was.,,. uh,., anyway here’s some pre-breakupfluff!! actually idk if this is going to make u guys more sad knowing how that last drabble ended but this one is super cute so at least you have that <3 i’m FINALLY appeasing u with balletteacher!jimin content 

➺ wordcount; 2.3k

➺ summary; all the teeny ballerinas seem to gravitate towards y/n for some reason and it’s taking everything within jimin to not spend the entire class just watching her fondly. 

➺ what to expect;  “oops, i dropt my swipper again.”

»»————- 🧸 ————-««

when jimin first got the email from saying that he had to take over the toddler’s ballet class for a day because the teacher for that class called in sick at the very last minute and he was the only one whose schedule lined up perfectly with the toddler’s class, needless to say, he wasn’t very happy 

it’s not that he hates children or anything horrible like that (he really doesn’t understand people who say that they hate children) — don’t get him wrong, he loves when random babies wave at him on the street and he’ll even go as far as to make a face at them if their parents aren’t watching — it’s just that he’s literally never taught a toddler ballet class before so he doesn’t even know where to start… and he also doesn’t know how far he can push them before he’s being accused of being a horrible, mean teacher 

though it would be fairly impressive on his end if they were able to do grand jetés by the end of class 

“i’m so happy we get to play with toddlers all day!” lisa squeals, plopping herself down next to you as you continue your morning stretches in front of the mirror, “aren’t you excited??” 

“i think it’ll be fun!” you smile, nodding in agreement before shrugging, “i’m a little nervous because i literally have never interacted with a child other than my little cousins, and they’re like eight to nine years old now, so i’m out of practice…” 

“it’s okay, y/n,” you feel a harsh pat on your shoulder and you look up to see seulgi smiling sweetly at you, “not all of us can be good at everything. you keep the class humble.”  

“very funny, seulgi.” you grumble, rolling your eyes before turning to look back at lisa, “i’m just glad we kinda get a day off because we have to help mr. park teach the toddlers. i don’t know about you but i am not in the mood to do any pirouettes this morning.” you huff, adjusting your leg warmers before checking out your reflection in the mirror to make sure you look okay

you also feel a little groggy because you didn’t get much sleep last night 

you spent the night at jimin’s and then he drove you back to your place early (because lisa texted and said she’d come over in the morning to have breakfast with you before the two of you zipped over to the studio so you had to go home otherwise she’d be wondering where the hell else you’d be) 

“do you think i should’ve worn the sheep-patterned leg warmers instead? i feel like toddlers would be more receptive to sheeps-“ for some reason you feel like you’re trying to impress the toddlers even though they probably don’t even know what leg warmers are and even if they did they couldn’t care less about them

you were going to wear your sweatpants but you got a new pair of leg warmers and you wanted to show them off (they’re baby pink with little black bows on the back of them), so you decided to pair them with your black leotard, a matching black wrap cardigan, and your stockings of course

“ah, i just love kids,” lisa sighs, getting up from the ground as you get up as well before looping her arm with yours, “and i don’t know about you, but seeing mr. park interact with kids is also something that i’m very much looking forward to.” 

you feel a wide grin growing on your face at the reminder that yes, you’re finally going to see jimin interacting with cute little kids and you remind yourself to keep it cool

you and jimin only started dating a few weeks ago and you don’t want to scare him off by getting all baby crazy

you don’t even know if jimin wants kids 

…

does he want kids?

and if he does, would he want to have them with you? because you certainly wouldn’t mind carrying his beautiful children and-

“oh my god, they’re so cute!” 

the room erupts into high pitched coos and squeals when the toddlers, well, toddle into the room, all of them dressed in matching baby pink cardigans and leotards and chiffon skirts with stockings on their little legs and neat little slicked back buns on their little heads and it doesn’t take long for you to fall in love with all of them because oh my god they’re so cute and you just want to eat their chubby little cheekies and gobble them up and rRRaAWOOF- 

“ladies, here are our little guests for the day,” jimin laughs lightly, shutting the door behind him quietly as he gently nudges the little ones towards the group like a herd of little baby sheep, “there are twenty-four of them and twelve of you, so if you could each take two for the day, that would be wonderful- oh!” jimin pauses when he accidentally bumps into one of the girls and he reaches down to pat her head, “sorry honey, mr. park is a little clumsy today and you’re just so small-“ 

“oh god, i can’t take it-“ lisa groans quietly, holding a hand over her mouth as she muffles a squeal and starts to bounce on the balls of her feet excitedly, “i can’t take it i can’t take it i can’t take it that is so stinking cute-“ 

“what are we supposed to do, do we just grab two random ones and go?” seulgi asks with a frown and you can’t help but snort because that is such a seulgi thing to ask 

“don’t grab two of them and go, this isn’t a drive through-“ you chuckle, watching as the other girls disperse into the crowd of teeny ballereenies to collect their two for the day, “you just have to go and see which ones vibe with you, i think. which might be hard for you.”

“what’s that supposed to mean?” 

“well, all children know that they need to stay away from the wicked witch of the west- OW-“ you yelp when seulgi delivers a hard punch to your arm before taking off 

it’s only in that moment you notice one of the little girls in the back, wide-eyed and holding onto both her slippers, looking as lost as ever 

she stumbles forward as the other girls start shuffling forwards slightly, all the toddlers clearly a little intimidated by all of you 

you make your way over to her and she immediately looks up at you, her lips parting slightly 

“hi! do you need some help with your slippers?” you crouch down so that you’re eye-level with her and she nods shyly before averting her gaze, “okay, i can help you. i’m y/n. what’s your name?” you stand back up before holding your hand out for her and she wraps her hand around two of your fingers, trailing behind you as you lead her to a free corner in the room 

“mia.” 

“mia’s a very pretty name,” you smile, looking down at her (from your angle, you can see her little cheeks protruding out slightly and it’s just so cute) 

“i dropt my swipper.” mia suddenly stops in her tracks and you stop as well, letting her bend down to pick up her slipper only for the other one to fall onto the ground, “oops, i dropt my swipper again.” 

you and lisa make eye contact from across the room and she pushes her bottom lip out in a pout before scrunching her face and putting a hand over her chest and you make the same expression in return to tell her that oh my god, i know, right?!

“alright, miss mia, do you wanna sit down for me?” you hum, sitting down cross-legged before patting your lap, “it’ll be easier for me to put your slippers on if you’re sitting.” 

mia nods before plopping herself down on your lap and you nearly let out a coo when you notice how teeny weeny her slippers are

they’re just so cute! and they’re basically the size of your hand!!!!!! 

“how old are you, mia?” you ask, taking her slippers from her before lifting one of her chubby little legs up so you can put a slipper on 

“thwee.” she holds four fingers up and you giggle, reaching over to put one of them down for her, “i’m thwee.” she kicks her legs slightly, sticking the one with the slipper up into the air before wiggling her toes 

»»————- 🧸 ————-««

jimin smiles to himself as he looks around the room, feeling weirdly proud at how well all of you are looking after the little ones even though his teaching has nothing to do with how good you guys are with kids 

he started the class off with a few warm-up exercises and was very impressed at how well the little girls followed his lead (to be honest he’s already picked out the ones that would survive in his class when they’re older, and it’s definitely not the one that started twirling around in ditzy, uncoordinated circles when he asked everyone to get into third position), and it’s only been about twenty minutes but according to the schedule given to him, they take ten minute breaks every twenty minutes which seems a little too lax for his liking, but then again — he’s not a teacher for toddlers, so who is he to say what’s right and what’s wrong? 

and he has to admit that it was hard to not watch you the entire time you were guiding your girls and showing them how to do everything properly (“demi-plie, mia! keep your back straight just like me…”) 

at first he was going to tell you off because you were kneeled on the ground while he was teaching up front but then he realized you were only doing it so you could help the little ones with positioning their feet, and not to mention, you weren’t just helping your own two ballereenies, you were helping whichever ones were around you which was just… so nice to see 

and perhaps the others will suspect him of favouritism because he’s pretty sure lisa caught him staring fondly at you at one point but it’s not like anyone would ever confront him about it so he’s really not too worried 

“and at home, i- i do- um, i do, um, dance evewywhere and my favouwite- favouwite song is wet it go from fwozen because anna and elsa-“

“speaking of let it go- emma, you better let go of my bun before you yank my hair off my head!”

jimin’s ears perk up in interest when he hears your voice among the many voices and squeals and giggles in the room and he turns around, eyes scanning the room until he finally lands on you to see you surrounded by six of the baby ballerinas

you’ve got one of them sitting on your lap with her hand buried in a pack of animal crackers (none of them brought snacks with them so he’s assuming those came from you), one of them with their arms slung over you from behind and her cheek pressed to your shoulder, three of them sitting cross-legged around you, and the last one prancing around you chatting away excitedly 

you wrap your arm securely around the one sitting on your lap, reaching down to smooth some of her hair back before leaning over a little to look at her and ask if she’s alright, and she nods in response before holding a cracker up for you to take 

jimin feels his heart skip a beat at the adorable sight because he was certainly not aware of how good you are with children

he can’t help but chuckle when he notices you showing off your leg warmers off 

so cute

so, so cute

his eyes widen when you look up and immediately lock gazes with him only for you to wave at him shyly before returning your attention to the girls after jimin returns a smile and a wave of his own 

you and y/n would make a really cute baby, the intrusive voice in his head tells him as his arm drops back to his side, and jimin finds his cheeks flushing slightly at the thought of a teeny little y/n trailing behind him like a little duckling 

he could dress her up in her ballet clothes and put bows in her hair and train her to become the best ballerina the world has ever seen and she’d have your hair and eyes and his nose and mouth and she’d be so sweet and kind like you but strong and tenacious like him 

and not to sound like a hormonal boy or anything but the process of baby-making seems like it’d be very fun 

…

…

…

“mr. park, y/n’s stealing all the kids!” jimin looks over when he hears seulgi whining and he resists the urge to snort at how huffy she’s being, “i took two of them like you told us to but all of them are like, gravitating towards y/n for some reason-“

“well, i guess there’s just something about y/n that they like, seulgi.” jimin responds with a shrug, keeping his eyes glued on you with a fond smile twitching at the corner of his mouth 

🎙️ ask y/n where she gets her leg warmers (talk to my characters!) 

📚 why not explore the rest of the library while you're here? (full fics!) 

💫 or perhaps you want something shorter to read? (drabbles and mini series!)

🌟 or something even shorter? (teeny tidbits!) 

[perplexedflower]

Connection

Fandom: Gravity Falls.

Category: F/M.

Relationship: Stanford Pines x Female Reader.

Type: One shot.

Words: 3,830.

Summary: Stanford Pines is anything but used to romance, but when the young woman he has fallen for confesses her feelings to him, it feels to him as though they were destined to be together…

Chronology: Late Season 2.

~~~~~~~~~~

I felt a little dizzy as my body began to tremble, but after one slow, deep breath, I regained my composure and walked out of the attic. After having spent so long, so much time, so many days debating with myself, I had finally made up my mind: that day was the day I would dare approach Stanford and confess to him everything that weighed on my mind. At last.

I made my way down the staircase and up to the vending machine, alone in the room; that afternoon was bright and sunny, thankfully for me, as all the others were spending their time outside the shack. The last thing I wanted was for one of them to walk in on me confessing my love to Stanford, and the sheer thought of such a thing happening was enough to bring knots to my stomach.

Still standing in front of the vending machine, I input the code to the basement on the pad, a code only the Stan twins knew better than I did, a code I typed in every day, a code that had become so important to me.

Come on, [Y/N]... You can do it. I motivated myself through thought as I watched the secret door open. You've prepared yourself for this day, for this exact moment... You can do it.

With the vending machine now retracted, I took a deep breath once more, sensing my nervousness rise as my stomach truly began to ache, my heart beating faster in my chest than it had ever before. For the second time, I found myself faced with a flight of stairs: I walked down each step, one by one, until I arrived at the elevator. With a slightly trembling index finger, I pressed the button that led to the last floor, which was home to the now-broken portal. While I waited inside the elevator, I continuously repeated to myself the speech I had prepared, the speech I intended to give to Stanford. And the second the elevator stopped moving and the doors slowly opened, I knew my time had come.

Seated on his chair, Stanford was pacing back and forth between all corners of the room, whether it was his desk, shelves, or even the ground, promptly standing up to grab some of his tools off the floor before he sat right back down. For but a moment, it was clear he had not yet noticed I was present in the room with him, until I took a few steps forward in his direction: then, he instantly recognized the sound of my footsteps and finally turned around to me.

From the other end of the room, he showed me a warm smile that made my heart flutter.

"Good afternoon, [Y/N]." He said cheerfully while he brushed the dust off his clothes with his hands. "How are you feeling today? Good, I hope."

"Good afternoon, Ford." I said back to him as I tried to sound as nonchalant as I could. "I'm fine, yes, thank you for asking. And what about you?"

"I'm doing great." He answered, still smiling. "In fact, I'm doing very well."

"Really, how so?"

"Well, I can't quite yet tell you much about it, but my current research is coming along nicely, to say it all." He told me with delight.

"Oh, that's fantastic news!" I exclaimed enthusiastically.

I stared at Stanford in the eyes, pretending to be jolly, when my heart rate was in fact racing.

"Oh, but enough about all that." He said as he took a step toward me while gesturing his hands. "Tell me, [Y/N], why are you not outside? I would have expected to see you out there, enjoying such a sunny day."

"You're one to talk, you know?" I teased him with a light chuckle. "But, as for me... Well..."

The old ceiling lamp above our heads emanated a low light that mixed in orange and red, which faintly reflected against the lenses of Stanford's glasses, making them sparkle just slightly.

"You see, Ford..." I started, the volume of my voice diminishing with each word. "God, it's just so hard to say it..."

As my hands began to tremble and awkwardly twist their fingers, he took yet another step in my direction, which brought him right in front of me.

"[Y/N], are you sure everything's all right?" He asked me with concern while he rested a delicate hand on one of my shoulders. "Is something the matter?"

To avoid his gaze, I lowered my head and stared at the ground, at my feet, just in front of his.

"Ford... There's something I have to tell you." I finally managed to say. "It's... really important... to me. That's why I'm here and not outside with the others."

While I spoke, I simply could not resist the urge to look down at Stanford's hand, holding my shoulder in place with a firm grip, yet without too much pressure; and the longer I stared at it, the longer I felt his touch on me, the more I could sense my heart pounding in my chest. I could tell my cheeks were progressively turning pink as I allowed my eyes to wander, leaving his hand to trace up his arm, detailing the outline of his muscles through the sleeve of his coat.

It's undeniable that the 30 years Ford spent stuck in-between dimensions have toughened him up... by a lot. I thought to myself. He's told me before that back when he and Stanley were little, he would get pushed around by other kids, even bullied. Then, growing up into adulthood, as a scientist and researcher, he never quite had a muscular physique, unlike his twin brother. But now, I look at him... and I can't help but feel a sense of pride seeing the man he has become.

I quickly pulled myself out of my thoughts and diverted my eyes from his arm, then cleared my throat before I looked back up at his face.

"I have to tell you that... I'm really glad that Stanley made the right choice to save you and bring you back here... and that Mabel decided not to press that button." I told him with genuine affection. "Stanford, I like you, and-"

"Oh, how sweet of you, [Y/N]." He exclaimed with a smile as he interrupted me. "I know it may not always seem like it, but I'm actually truly happy to be back, to be here, beside you all, even Stanley... And that includes you, of course. I like you too, [Y/N]."

With a grin still displayed on his face, he leaned forward and moved his hand from my shoulder to my head: his palm tousled my hair, after which he started to walk back to his desk, assuming our conversation was over and that he could go back to his work.

"T-Thank you, Ford, but you don't get it-" I said with a sad smile while I shook my head slowly, my eyebrows furrowed. "I like you, Stanford... I love you."

It felt as though my words echoed throughout the room, bouncing off the walls, surrounding us wholly, resonating within our heads. He immediately stopped walking, his foot frozen in mid-air, and remained still, his back turned to me; although I could not see his face, I could feel mine growing hot with blush, an expression of conflicted emotions on my face.

"... Hum- You know what? Forget I said anything." I mumbled as I stared at his back. "I... don't know what came over me, but just- ignore it... please..."

The more I tried to express myself properly, the longer I spent choosing my words, the more teardrops escaped my eyes, rolling down across my cheeks and ending their course on the ground.

"This... must sound like complete nonsense to you... I'm sure you're thinking I've lost my mind."

While I still stared at his back, still turned to me, Stanford still motionless, I took a blind step backward, then another.

"... I'm very sorry to have disturbed you, Stanford... You may resume your work, now."

The second I finished speaking, I promptly turned around and nervously pressed the button on the elevator: and as I stepped inside, I anxiously waited to hear him say something, anything, but he remained quiet. I pressed a second button, this time to order the elevator to go back up to the surface. After a second of silence that felt excruciatingly long, the two doors closed, and the moment the elevator started to move, I broke into tears.

I was still sobbing when, shortly after, I walked out of the elevator, climbing the secret stairs back up to arrive back into the room. I was too emotionally compromised to truly scan my surroundings, but I was still able to tell all the others were still busy, as the room was still empty.

I need... to be alone... I told myself. I need to find a place... somewhere, anywhere...

I knew the attic was out of the question, considering Dipper and Mabel could have very well been there, and so was the kitchen, given how much time Stanley spent in it; the only place that was left, the only place I could think of was the secret room Soos had discovered the other day, by pure accident. Once standing in front of the door, I gave it a soft push with my hand, too feeble to put any amount of strength into my movements. But as physically weak as I felt, I stepped inside the room without even an ounce of hesitation.

Once I was in, I closed the door behind me then took a look around the dim room, plunged into darkness, and, soon enough, my eyes spotted a couch: without a second thought, I made my way to it and sat down, bringing both of my legs onto the sofa. The temperature in the room was quite cold, which forced me to bury my face into the sweater I was wearing, a sweater Mabel had knitted for me. And as I sat in the dark, I let my tears flow, pouring out of my eyes like a river.

For a while, although I had no notion of how long it had been, I did not move from my spot, nor did I stop weeping, surrounded by my overwhelming thoughts in the midst of obscurity. That was, until I heard the door of the room open behind me, in such a slow and gentle manner it was almost inaudible.

Without sticking my head out of my sweater, I shook my head at the sound.

"I don't know who you are, but frankly, I don't care." I let out in-between two tears, my voice muffled. "Please... go away... I just need some time on my own..."

Despite my pitiful request, the person decided to walk in anyway, and I felt my heart twist into knots when I recognized the sound of their footsteps on the creaking floor, the sound of old, muddy boots. They continued, growing closer and closer to me, until they stopped, right beside me, and after but only a second, I felt his body sit down on the couch, just next to mine.

"[Y/N]... Please, listen." Stanford started in a tone so gentle it was almost a whisper. "You may think you've lost your mind, but you're far from it, trust me."

His voice and his words reached my ears and instantly enveloped me in a sensation of safety, of warmth, of comfort, and a part of me was already soothed, just listening to them, no matter how much I craved to be alone at that moment.

Though hesitantly, I slowly raised my head from my sweater, revealing the upper part of my face, though the rest was still concealed: and in an instant, my eyes were met with his, his gaze soft and affectionate.

"Because of... what you've told me, you see yourself as a freak... as some kind of monster. And you know this is something I can relate to, [Y/N]. I've had similar thoughts in the past, when I was a child, after other people would make fun of me for my weirdness, especially my polydactyly. But no matter how many times I got pushed around, I always- well, almost always had my brother by my side, to remind me I should not be ashamed of who I am... Just like you have us."

Ever so gently, Stanford extended one of his hands to me, reaching down into my sweater to grab my chin between his thumb and index finger. And that one single gesture tore my heart in half.

I already know how all of this is going to end... Ford is going to comfort me, to try and make me feel better, but he's not going to bring up again my love declaration, he's going to ignore my feelings for him... He'd rather avoid mentioning it, finding it easier to pretend as if it never happened... and this tension between us would remain.

With my face still held by his hand, he stared deeply into my eyes, though it appeared his confidence was progressively fading away.

"[Y/N], I... I don't... quite know how to say this..."

His face turned pink as he broke eye contact with me, his eyes restless.

"I've never really... done this type of thing... ever, you see, so..."

But eventually, after looking for the right words for some time, he looked back into my eyes, this time with strong determination.

"I love you too, [Y/N]." He blurted out bashfully.

Upon hearing his words, my eyes opened wide and my heart stopped beating. I was already convinced my imagination had played a trick on me, unable to believe what Stanford had just said to be the truth.

"... This... is not something I thought I would say today, but I assure you that I mean it, no matter how unbelievable it may sound to you." He further confessed, his words heavy. "I've had feelings for you ever since the day I first made your acquaintance. I saw you for the first time and... found you... beautiful. I talked to you for the first time and thought your personality was wonderful. Then I saw how well you got along with my family, with Stanley and the kids, and... I felt something I had never really felt before."

He marked a pause, his voice slightly shaky and his face shifting from pink to red.

"... A-And, at first, I couldn't believe it was love, I put the blame on... on the fact that you simply had been the first woman my eyes landed on after 30 years outside of this dimension, but-... But soon enough, I had to be rational and face the truth... I understood I truly had fallen for you."

Although I kept quiet, I could very distinctively tell what was going through Stanford's mind, especially given the facial expressions he was switching between as he spoke.

"But I... I didn't say anything." He continued, lowering his eyes to avoid mine. "I didn't know how to properly apprehend these feelings, how to confess them to you... For a man my age, all of this shouldn't be a problem, but... well, my experience is close to none. I understand your own hesitation regarding your feelings came from our age gap, and, quite frankly, so did mine. I just couldn't find a way to let you know about mine without coming across as a pervert... So I decided to bottle it all up."

After his last sentence, silence reigned for a moment, and I understood his speech had finally come to an end; the two of us were now staring straight at each other, our gazes locked on, neither of us saying a word. Only then did Stanford remember he was still holding my chin, and only then did he realize his speech had gone on for much longer than he himself had intended, judging by the look on his face. His eyes suddenly opened wide, his cheeks still buried under a thick layer of blush as he let go of my face, visibly embarrassed.

"I-I'm sorry, [Y/N]- I said too much, didn't I?" He asked me, seemingly shameful. "I must have spoken for too long- You said you wanted to be left alone, so... I'll be going, now-"

He hurriedly stood up from the sofa as he nervously pushed his glasses on his nose. He promptly made his way to the door of the room, but before I could let him get too far away from me, I extended an arm toward him and reached for the bottom of his coat: as he felt my hand tug at the fabric, he turned back around and looked at me, at the single tear rolling down my cheek.

"Stay." I said in a whisper. "... Please."

Stanford's eyes remained on me, on my face, which was now begging for his presence, and he could feel it; all while staring down at me, he walked back to the couch and sat back down, this time even closer to me, close enough to wrap his arms around my body and bring it down against his as he lay back slightly. His embrace felt warm and secure, yet so overwhelming as well. With my face nestled in the crook of his neck, I closed my eyes and took multiple deep breaths, his natural scent soothing me further with each passing second.

As I listened to the sound of his heart beating faster in his chest, I felt one of his hands rub my back gently, shortly followed by a kiss he left on the crown of my head. Both of us found peace and tranquility within that moment, that moment of serenity and quietness; but the silence did not last for long, as I let out a heavy sigh.

"... I'm sorry, Ford." I said, my voice slightly muffled against his skin.

"What for?" He kindly asked while looking down at me.

"For... all of this. For having waited all this time to let you know how I feel, and for having made you repress your own feelings. Because of me... we've wasted so much time we could have spent... this way."

Stanford chuckled, a genuine laugh that made my heart skip a beat and turned the tips of my ears red.

"You don't need to apologize for such things, [Y/N]." He stated as he brought his hands down on my shoulders.

With slow and gentle care, he pulled me out of his embrace, just slightly, just enough so that he could look down at me, so that our faces could meet, so that he could show me his bright smile.

"You're not responsible for any of this, and if we follow your way of thinking, logic would have it I need to apologize too. But neither of us is at fault, here. So, please, don't burden yourself with guilt."

With a shy smile, I closed my eyes and nodded. When I opened them again, I was still faced with his loving smile, with his affectionate gaze; and, after but a brief moment of uncertainty and indecision, I slowly brought my hand up to his face and gently rested my palm on his cheek, which led to the blush on his cheeks intensifying. As my fingers drifted down along his jaw and then his neck, I tilted my head a little.

I've... never really been this close to Ford before... It might take some getting used to... But I get the feeling that won't be an issue.

Our eyes gazed deeply into one another as my other hand found its way to his torso, my palm slowly rising and falling along his heaving chest, along the rhythm of his heartbeat. One of his hands left my shoulders to hold my waist, while the other held the nape of my neck, his fingers delicately running through my hair. Our faces grew closer to each other, the air around us filled with anticipation and excitement, until we both tilted our heads and closed our eyes: our lips met and our embrace grew tighter, finally sharing together this special moment we had waited so long to see happen.

My hand on his neck moved to the collar of his sweater, which I grabbed passionately while I felt Stanford furrow his eyebrows, his lips sighing against mine, cherishing the moment as he held me against his body. But the moment inevitably came to an end when we both pulled away, slightly out of breath, slightly panting, in an atmosphere that had all of a sudden become heavy. The two of us were still nervous, even now that we had kissed, and I could tell Stanford was feeling particularly awkward: with a soft smile, I tugged at his sweater and leaned forward to leave one more kiss on his lips, catching him off-guard. After I pulled away, I stared into his wide-open eyes with love as I caressed his blushing cheek.

"That was wonderful, Ford." I told him enthusiastically in a reassuring tone.

While still smiling, I readjusted his glasses on his nose a little better, seeing as they had slightly slipped down during our kiss.

"For a man in his 60s who's barely ever kissed a woman before, you're quite a good kisser." I added, teasing him playfully.

My compliment made him chuckle, somewhat awkwardly but mostly with genuine affection.

"Well... Thank you, [Y/N]." He said while blushing. "You're... really good yourself."

My body imitated his and I felt the redness on my face intensify as I giggled lightly. Both of his hands traveled back down around my waist, which he grabbed firmly, though without applying too much pressure.

"Well... The afternoon is far from over, so why don't you and I go back to the basement?" He suggested happily, visibly excited at the idea of keeping this conversation going elsewhere. "I'll show you a glimpse of what I've been working on these past few days."

"I like the sound of that." I replied just as happily.

With the help of my hips, his hands moved my body to the side, freeing his so that he could stand up from the couch: then, as he stared down into my eyes, he opened the palm of his hand to me.

"Then, let's get back to work... Shall we, sweetheart?"

I felt my pulse accelerate greatly upon hearing him call me by such a pet name, but I did my best to keep my composure as I nodded and put my palm in his.

Hand in hand, Stanford and I walked out of the room and headed to the basement, where we spent the rest of the day together, exchanging more than just words, until the sun went down and the moon went up.

[kira-broflovski]

main 4 boys hcs: seeing you come back after you moved away

note: this set of hcs is really similar to a kyle fic i have in my drafts already 😭 but im glad you guys are enjoying my writing :)

STAN ☆

when he heard there was a "new girl" in school he didn't think much of it, and you weren't in his first class so it didn't really bother him.

he didn't even recognise you when the teacher called your name for the register in his second period class. was it really you?

"Y/N?" He whispered out of shock.

"Hi, Stan." You had whispered back with a smile, making a familiar sense of nausea come back to him.

the two of you spent the whole of class chatting; catching up.

^ that landed stan into detention, but he didn't care. you only didn't get detention because the teacher didn't want to scare you off on your first day.

stan didn't care though, it was totally worth it when he got your number and socials.

he couldn't resist texting you while he was in detention. your presence through the phone was enough to keep him going, and the endless conversation made the hours go by quickly.

after you got closer, he invited you to a soccer (football) game that he was playing in this weekend. of course he spent most of the game showing off when he spotted you in the crowd, and he worked hard to make sure his team won.

when he scored a goal, adrenaline was coursing through his veins. without thinking he ran up to where you stood in the stands and kissed you on the cheek, to then run back and continue playing.

that was only the beginning of the romance.

KYLE ☆

he went to school that morning, he was confused as to why people were talking about you.

i mean, you moved away from south park years ago. did people really miss you that much? he couldn't blame them, he probably missed you the most out of anyone.

it wasn't until lunch when jimmy went up to kyle.

"Your little girlfriend is back. Aren't you gonna talk to her?"

"Huh?"

"Dude, Y/N?" Jimmy was surprised at Kyle's confusion. "You don't know?"

"Know what?" Kyle was starting to worry people were playing a cruel joke on him.

"Oh my god, Y/N is b-back." Jimmy began, "I thought you would be the first to know?"

"No?" Kyle looked at his friends in disbelief. "Where is she right now?"

"She's outside talking to-"

poor jimmy couldn't even finish his sentence before kyle sprinted outside to see you. he really hoped it wasn't a joke, otherwise he'd never recover from being made to look like such an idiot.

he ran outside to find you just saying goodbye to butters, and he couldn't believe his eyes. he was so happy to see you he almost cried.

he called your name and you looked over at the familiar voice. you were so relieved to see none other than kyle broflovski himself.

"we should probably leave them two lovebirds alone for a little while."

KENNY ☆

kenny heard that a family had moved into the house you used to live in, and he was pissed off to say the least.

he treated your old house like a sacred ground as nobody had lived there since you had moved out.

he sometimes snuck into the back garden when he needed to get away from everything, or when he really missed you. he made sure any plants you had grown yourself were still alive, in the seemingly unlikely event you did return.

what he didn't know is that your family owned this house and didn't let anybody move in because you all knew you'd return to south park at some point.

he marched over to that house to see exactly who it was, but he noticed that there wasn't even a moving van, just two brand new cars.

To say the least, he was fuming. He was ready to raise hell on these people. Even if it wasn't actually called for, and he was just upset his memories of you would be ruined by them.

He didn't even hear commotion inside, telling him that this new family had already settled in. How dare they!?

The door opened and he was ready. He looked up at the mystery person only to see... your mom?

"Oh, Kenny! It's so good to see you." She smiled down at him. His burning anger turned into complete confusion. "Y/N! Your old friend is here to see you already!"

he could feel his heart racing again, but this time out of anticipation.

when he saw you, he felt that sense of peace you always gave him and he immediately felt his cheeks get hot when you pulled him into a welcoming hug.

after all that time, when he would spend hours just sitting in the garden he now knew it was worth it.

and after all those hours of catching up, you walked him all the way home and even up to the doorstep.

you said you were glad to see him again, before you kissed him on the cheek and made your way back home.

"WOOHOO!!"

ERIC ☆

i imagine he'd be like kyle where he wouldn't realise until somebody said to him you were back. only difference is he would attempt to act as if he didn't care.

you were in all of his classes when kyle asked if he had seen you yet.

of course this confused eric and claimed kyle was just being stupid again when he said you were back.

"Shut up, Kyle! You're just trying to make me look stupid in front of everyone." Eric shouted.

"I swear she's here, ask literally anyone in our grade and they'll say she is back!"

It was constant back and forth, until Eric heard somebody say his name.

To which he screamed, "what!?"

you couldn't tell at the time, but he felt bad for screaming in your face like that.

he remembers having a massive crush on you, but he got angry that you left without telling him.

when he stared straight into your eyes, he couldn't stay angry for long.

you gave him your new number so you could catch up when you had more time, and he simply watched as you walked away.

"I told you so, fatass!"