#or drapes it across the back of his chair at her dining room table..... the first few times that Lois actually wears his coat

[cowboysorceror]

I am goddamn begging for the selkie AU lore holy shit. There’s SO much potential there. KONS JACKET SPECIFICALLY BEING TORN AS SHIT??? 👀👀👀

OKAY SO it's still percolating it's still cooking & @mamawasatesttube is responsible for a lot of it BUT as for Kon specifically... man... obviously Cadmus (and later Lex) have his coat in the early days. but he doesn't actually even really KNOW how messed up that is bc he's a kid and no one told him!!! he doesn't understand that that's his basic personhood and it belongs to him. he knows almost nothing about his selkie heritage or what it means, and so he doesn't know why he feels miserable and discontent and can't stay away for very long and is just kind of sickly ☹️ and ofc when Clark eventually realizes what's going on he is capital H Horrified and immediately tries to help him get it back. but it's a process and it's a very bitter and traumatic thing for Kon to realize how deeply he was being manipulated (very analogous to canon in that regard).

and for Kon's jacket being a bit patchwork - selkie coats are essentially an outwards extension of the soul! they're very unique and personally individualized, and can be both altered and damaged by painful relationships with that part of their identity (or just physical trauma). some of the threadwork on Kon's jacket is work done to repair damage from the neglect/abuse of his coat by Cadmus, and some of it is Kon trying to make it his own! Selkie coats are magical which makes them somewhat fluid :)

[lxkeee]

TWO SIDES OF THE SAME COIN

—PART TWO

Pairing: Lucifer Morningstar x Seraphim Angel! Fem! Reader

Fandom: Hazbin Hotel

Genre: Angst (for now)

Warnings: Daddy issues.

Notes: Glad you guys loved the first part despite it being so short.

PART ONE | PART THREE | NAVIGATION

The sunlight passed by the small gaps of the curtains, shining down on the face of a sleeping boy. Light blond hair messy but perfectly framing his beautiful face, red circles on his pale cheeks, a pop of color. He groans as he buries his face underneath the large fluffy white blanket, eventually groaning as he opens his eyes, [e/c] eyes adjusting to the brightness of his room. Sitting up on his queen sized bed that is surrounded by pillows. As much as he wants to sleep in, he has duties as an angel and as the son of [y/n] Caeles.

Getting out of bed, slipping his feet into the fluffy white slippers. He moved across his large room, stopping by a large mirror.

He frowns when sees his reflection, the only thing he can see is his deadbeat father who left his mother for another woman.

He hated it, he could see his supposed father staring back at him through the mirror. The fallen angel, Lucifer staring right back at him. A cruel reminder that he is his father's son.

He's thankful he has her eyes, at least he was able to have a piece of her on him. He hated his father, his mother never hid his father from him and told him everything what he wanted to know. He'd do anything for his mother. He loves her so much.

He knows that his mother often gets sad when he sees him, he knows because she could see the man that hurt her on his face. He doesn't blame her. He hated his face too, despite it being heaven's most beautiful facial features. He wished he had his mother's face instead.

Getting a large robe that was placed on the cushioned chair, draping it over his body. Time to get ready, he has a lot of work to do.

[Y/n] looks up from her newspaper, seeing her son finally entering the dining room, dressed in his military like uniform but in colors of white and gold. She sat on one of the chairs of the dining table, a breakfast already made by yours truly—pancakes and bacon and of course, two cups of steaming black coffee.

[Y/n]'s eyes lit up when she saw her son, “Good morning Xavier, did you sleep well?” she asked with a small smile, watching as the boy sat next to her. Xavier gave his mother a close eyed smile.

“Good morning to you too, mother. You look very beautiful this morning.” he says softly, closing his eyes as he felt his mother's hand ruffle his hair, playfully groaning. “Hey! I just brushed my hair.” Xavier says with a small pout and [y/n] chuckles and places a gentle kiss on the boy's forehead.

“I couldn't help it, my boy is just the sweetest.” [y/n] says and Xavier blushes softly and just chuckles.

“It is because I have the most amazing mother in the whole world, that's why.” he says.

[Y/n] smiled at him, “Oh, you... Aren't you just the sweetest?” she giggled and he just chuckled.

The two made a sign of the cross, praying to say thank you for the blessings they have received. Finishing the prayer, the two finally ate breakfast.

“So you're going to be training with your uncle today?” [y/n] asked, looking at the young man beside her. Xavier nodded, he would be training with Uncle Michael today.

“Yes, mother. I am hoping he can help me improve on how to fight.” He says with a small smile and [y/n] squished the young man's cheek, the latter pouting.

“I know you'll do great, you make me so proud.” [y/n] says softly and Xavier had to try so hard not to cry. He loves it when he makes her happy, his mom deserves the whole world after all.

“Thanks, mom.” he says softly and her eyes soften and they continue to eat breakfast.

After breakfast, Xavier helped his mother clean up the table and offered to wash the dishes. [Y/n] wanted to insist on doing it as she feared it would dirty his suit but the boy insisted. He just rolled up the sleeves and wore an apron.

When he was done doing his morning routine, he walked to the living room to see his mom already dressed for work. His eyes saddened, he won't be seeing her for a couple of days again.

Walking towards his mother, the older woman hugged her son. “Don't miss me too much, dearie.” [y/n] says with a giggle. Her hand rubbing circles on the boy's back.

“I'll try not to. I'm just worried.” Xavier says softly, he doesn't like it when she leaves to go to the mortal realm. He worries for her physically and mentally. Humans, human way of living is very... Mentally unhealthy and he fears it will affect his mother too.

[Y/n] smiled softly, patting the boys light blond hair. “Do not worry about me, Azrael would be there to protect me if needed.” she says with a smile.

With the mention of the angel of death, Xavier sees the older man like a father figure. The man has always been present in his life.

Xavier smiled and nodded, “Alright.”

[Y/n] smiles, “Good luck with training, don't overwork okay? Summon me if you must.” she says sternly as the two finally let go of the hug, her hand was placed on her waist.

Xavier nodded, “I promise and I will make you proud.”

[Y/n] grins, “That's my boy,” she says and snapped her fingers and a portal appeared, “Goodluck kiddo, I'll see you in a few days.” she says softly and places a kiss on his forehead before going inside the portal. The portal closes.

Taking one last look of himself on the mirror, the face of his biological father staring back at him. Xavier rolls his eyes and scoffed. Unrolling his sleeves, adjusting his collar. Unfurling his large and majestic white wings. It's time to train, he promised to become one of heaven's protector and he promised he'll rise the ranks and join his mother.

Training with his uncle went by smoothly, he did lost but at least he learned something. Xavier was flying around heaven, wanting to return home but his eyes landed on a familiar seraphim. Emily, his heart started to beat faster. He always liked the girl, the girl is pretty and kind, okay?

His eyes landed on the person wearing such bright red suit. An eyesore, really. A pop of color in heaven.

Xavier tilted his head and decided to approach the girls.

Emily jumped slightly in surprise, seeing the beautiful and handsome and nonchalant looking young general that is her friend landed beside her gracefully.

Yes, Xavier puts up a front in public. He doesn't want others to know he's a total Mama's boy.

Xavier nodded and gave Emily a gentle smile, “Greetings, Emily. Off to showing off a new soul around?” he asked, voice gentle and calm.

Emily grinned and blushed slightly, nodding. “Not exactly a new resident, just a visitor.” Emily explained and Xavier turned to look at this supposed visitor and he could feel himself freeze slightly.

Who wouldn't freeze when seeing the same face as you but in the opposite gender.

“Xavier, this is Charlotte Morningstar...” Emily says hesitantly, now remembering who's the biological father of the boy.

Xavier's eyes narrowed but was quickly replaced as he gave the new girl a closed eyed smile, a forced one. “Really? So that makes you my half sister then?” Xavier says with a grin and Charlie's whole being froze.

Emily looked at the two nervously, she knows Xavier isn't violent but she does know how the boy hates his biological father to the core.

“... Half sister...?” Charlie asked, her voice in disbelief.

“Indeed! We share the same father. It is a pleasure to meet you, Charlotte.” Xavier says with a grin but his eyes dull, no longer have the usual shine on them. Charlie was nervous, she doesn't know how to act around the boy. She knows he isn't lying because the boy literally looks like her father.

“How rude of me,” Xavier says with a small gasp, “Let me properly introduce myself, I am Xavier Caeles. Son of [y/n] Caeles. It is a pleasure to meet you, dear sister.” he says with a smirk, looking down on the girl (literally because he's taller than her, a trait he is thankful that he inherited from his mother. Good Lord, he would be miserable if he had his father's height), offering his hand for a handshake which the girl hesitantly and nervously returned.

“It is nice to meet you too... Xavier..” she says and Xavier grins, Emily just looked at the two nervously. Thanking that a fight nor an argument haven't started yet.

“It was a pleasure meeting you but I must go, I still have far more important matters to attend to. Emily, I'll catch up to you later.” Xavier says with a small smile, turning his back from the two girls.

Before he flies away, he stopped. Not bothering to look at his half sister, “Tell our dear father I said hi, okay? Farewell.” he says, not a single emotion in his voice. He quickly spreads his wings and flew off.

“Stars... I didn't expect to see my half sister today..” Xavier murmurs to himself as he flies back home.

Meanwhile, Charlie stood in disbelief next to Emily. Turning around to look at the Seraphim, “Was he really my...?” Charlie asked hesitantly and Emily nodded with a small sad smile, “Yes but it's not my story to tell.” Emily explained softly and Charlie nodded.

“Let us just continue showing you around, yeah?” Emily says softly and the princess of hell nodded.

Emily knows that Xavier's interest has been piqued. She knows he'll be there during the meeting now that he knows his half sister is going to be there.

End Notes: I forgot to mention, reader's work clothes are the same as Arlecchino from Genshin Impact wears.

Taglist:

@valerie-36 @blackbleedingrose @adaizel @xx-all-purpose-nerd-xx @thedarkkitten @selvyyr @froggybich @brithedemonspawn @kottenox @totallymitya @many-fandoms-lover @dou-dou @mezzyb0nb0n @n1chxyaaenthusiast @cherry-4200 @koirb @galaxyj3lly @crystalplays28 @luleck @scootinonyourmom @rory-cakes @mixplara @crescent-z @bitchyzombienacho @kalisha2004 @altervex @nehy019 @napbatata @kouyoumarryme @sxgacxbe @kooidoom @cadelinhadochoso

[babydollmarauders]

TOLERATE IT — JOHN MARINO

john marino x fem!reader

summary: in which y/n’s love is tolerated at best, and she wonders what ever happened to her loving boyfriend

warnings: not much dialogue in the beginning?, happy or sad ending depending on the way you look at it, not proofread.

notes: i love writing angst but as a john girlie, this hurt me— but i did this to myself

the page turns, John’s fingers skimming it gently.

his head is dipped low, one leg perched on the other. he’s sat on the other end of the sofa, engrossed in his book; whereas i pay no attention to the movie that plays on the tv, rather watching him instead.

his demeanor is peaceful, and i know better than to actually disturb him. this is some of the only time he gets to relax, and i don’t want to take that away from him. so i sit quietly instead, just enjoying the rare company.

but i can’t help but wish he would actually do something with me. watch a movie, cuddle, talk, anything. instead i’m subjected to medium silence and the sound of paper flipping.

i turn the tv off, rising from the couch, and his eyes flicker up at my movement, but he dismisses it quickly, going back to his book.

“i’m going to bed.” i tell him softly, quietly yearning for him to join me, but instead he just hums in acknowledgment. “are you gonna join me?”

his eyes scan the page for a few more seconds as i stand before him, waiting for his response. finally, he looks up at me properly, shaking his head.

“no, i’m good.”

my heart sinks at his reply, but i nod, “okay.”

i spend my entire bedtime routine hoping that he’ll walk into the room. that maybe he’ll change his mind and for once, we’ll go to bed together; like we did early in our relationship. but when i climb into an empty bed and he’s still in the living room, i have to accept the fact that it’s not happening. that those days are apparently over.

**

i stir in my sleep, shifting under the weight of an arm draped over my waist, and for a second my heart leaps in my chest, thinking John has decided to cuddle me as i slept. but when i turn under his touch, my eyes fluttering open, i find him asleep. the spooning an unconscious movement, and as soon as it’s started, it’s already over, his arm drawing back as he moves in his slumber to lay on his back.

i settle on my side, resting my head in my hand as i watch the steady rise and fall of his chest in the darkness of the room. the silence piercing as i watch him breathe.

what ever happened to the boy who held me as we slept? the same one who comforted me when people criticized our five year age gap. the one who told me he would do anything to keep me happy.

***

my heart races in my chest as i set the dining table.

the usual plastic plates and cups being replaced for fine china and wine glasses. a singular candle is lit in the middle of the table, next to the steaming pasta that waits to be served. homemade french bread sits beside it, a dish of herb infused butter resting atop of the wood as well.

i spent all day in the kitchen, making everything from scratch. the noodles, the sauce, the bread, the butter, all done today by me. as well as John’s favorite chocolate cake, in which i got the recipe from his mother.

it’s officially our two year anniversary, and i took advantage of the fact that John had practice today and then was going to the gym. i figured a slightly early dinner and then dessert would be a good plan before i gave him his present and then hopefully we would make our way to the bedroom.

but now i sit in my seat at the table, awaiting his return. he had told me he would be home by six, but the clock on the dining room wall displays that it’s a quarter past seven and he still isn’t home.

i’ve stuck the food into the oven to keep warm at this point, but the empty chair across from me and the soft music that floats through the house taunts me.

“alexa, stop the music.” the instrumental cuts off abruptly, tears welling in my eyes at my boyfriends absence.

i’m just about ready to eat by myself and call it an early night when i hear the front door open, footsteps echoing through the house, getting closer and closer. they halt when he reaches the dining room, and i look up to find him standing in the doorway.

his brows are threaded together, his gym bag slung over his shoulder.

“you made dinner?” he questions, setting his bag on the ground beside him.

i perk up immediately, disappointing myself with how quickly i’m ready to move past his lateness.

“yeah.” i smile, motioning toward the empty seat. “take a seat, i’ll go grab it out of the oven! i was waiting for you to get home.”

he nods, sitting down as i scurry towards the kitchen. i bring the pasta and bread and butter out one at a time before taking my seat across from him.

i’m on the edge of my seat, eagerly awaiting his praise for my cooking and the setup, or even just a ‘happy anniversary, baby.’ but it never comes. we eat silently as he scrolls on his phone, and when he finishes his food, he quickly stands to dismiss himself.

“wait!” he stops at my shout, furrowing his brows at me. “i made cake.”

my eyes are soft, silently begging him to stay.

despite the fact that he evidently forgot our anniversary, i’m still eager to please him; vying for his attention and love, the best i can.

he nods, settling back down in his seat.

“dinner, cake, wine, and glass plates?” he laughs, “you were feeling fancy tonight.”

my heart shatters in my chest. even though i know he forgot the date, it still hurts to hear him speak like it’s just another day. proving even further that he doesn’t know how special today is.

“well, yeah, it’s-” i’m so close to reminding him, but then i think of how guilty he’ll feel, and i stop. “it’s just been a good day.”

i plaster a smile on my lipstick covered lips, hoping he’ll buy it; and he does. he gives me a small smile back and i excuse myself to the kitchen, taking a moment to blink back tears before i cut into the cake, setting a slice on a plate and hurrying back to him.

i place the dessert in front of him, before sitting back down, just watching him as he eats. i’m no longer in a cake mood, my appetite gone as i push my still only half eaten pasta around my plate.

“Jack said hi, by the way.” he speaks between bites and i hum.

“that’s nice, i’ll have to text him.” i acknowledge. “i talked to your mom today.”

“you did?”

“yeah, i called her for the cake recipe.” i explain. “she said to tell you to call her.”

maybe she can remind him what day it is, seeing as she remembered it as soon as i called her.

“okay, i’ll call her soon.” he tells me, finishing his last bite before he stands once more.

“anything else, or can i take a shower now?” he asks, as though i’ve inconvenienced him somehow.

“you can shower.” i wait until he’s walking away, heading down the hallway to our room before i speak again, lowly whispering. “happy anniversary.”

i know i deserve better; that my love should be celebrated. i know that i deserve someone who will remember our anniversary; maybe even someone who will get me flowers just because and who will spend time with me and appreciate my love rather than tolerate it, but i love him.

***

i sit backwards, on my knees on a chair in the living room, facing the front door. i wait eagerly, checking the time on my phone religiously.

i know John should be home soon. a week long roadie finally ending with his long awaited return.

it’s half past two in the morning, much later than i normally stay up, but i refuse to let him arrive home without a proper welcoming.

my eyes are half lidded, but excitement still courses through my veins, remembering his three goals and seven assists in this past four games.

i perk up at the sound of the front door unlocking, watching with baited breath as it creaks open. John steps through the doorway, looking exhausted, slipping his shoes off and dropping his roadie bag on the floor.

i squeal excitedly, gaining his attention as i hop off my chair and run straight into his arms.

“welcome home, Johnny!” i cheer, snaking my arms around his neck, and jumping up to wrap my legs around his waist.

he stiffens for a split-second, letting out an ‘oomph’ before his hands fly to my butt to hold my weight.

“jesus, y/n, warn a guy, would you?” he huffs out a laugh and i lean back to look at his face, expecting a smile but all i see is a blank expression and tired eyes.

i give a sad smile, unwrapping my legs and letting my body slide down his.

suddenly, i feel incredibly insecure, my happy mood diminishing and quickly being replaced by regret.

“you’re right, i’m sorry.” i breathe out, backing away. “i guess i was overly excited.”

i turn quickly in order to keep him from seeing my now glassy eyes, tears threatening to spill as i retreat down the hall to our bedroom.

i don’t expect for him to accompany me, but suddenly i can hear his footsteps behind me, slowly following.

“what was that?” he questions as we reach the bedroom.

i can feel myself reaching my boiling point, choosing to ignore his words as i walk into the en-suite bathroom. i turn the shower water on, but he follows me into the bathroom too.

“y/n.”

y/n. not ‘babe’ or ‘love’. just y/n.

i swallow the lump in my throat before i turn to face him.

“aren’t you gonna go to bed?” i ask in attempt to avoid his question. “you seem tired.”

“aren’t you?” he raises a brow, and i shake my head.

i jab my thumb towards the shower behind me, “i’m gonna shower first.”

“i see that.” he huffs. “what was that? you just walked away from me.”

i sigh, knowing what’s finally coming, and turn to shut off the shower water before facing him again.

“doesn’t feel good, does it?” i walk around him, back into the bedroom, but he’s hot on my heels.

“what?” his hand grips my wrist, spinning me back around to look at him. “what are you talking about?”

“look, if this is all in my head, tell me now.” i start, only confusing him further by the looks of his expression. “but, you don’t love me anymore.”

tell me i’ve got it wrong.

he closes his eyes, taking a deep breath before he opens them again. “what are you even saying? i’m dating you, aren’t i?”

“are you?” i laugh bitterly, taking a couple steps backwards. “or are you tolerating me?”

“y/n,” he sighs, shaking his head. “you’re tired. and i must’ve upset you somehow, but you’re not making any sense.”

“you don’t appreciate me!” i shout, my hands gesturing wildly in the air.

“i cooked a nice dinner for our anniversary and you were late and forgot the date! and while you’re off playing hockey and winning games, where am i? here! i sit here and polish plates until they gleam and glisten. i clean the house and sit and wait for your return, and then when you do get home, you don’t even seem happy to see me! at all!”

John blinks in surprise at my outburst, his lips parting to speak, but i cut him off before he can get a word out.

“i made you my everything and you don’t even seem to care! i’ve been begging for you to love me again but i’m done! what happened to the man that assured me that my past relationships didn’t define me? the you that actually spent time with me?”

my chest heaves as i regain my breath, watching his expression change from confusion to defensiveness.

“i spend time with you!” he huffs and i roll my eyes.

“no, you sit and you read or you watch games or you do something by yourself on the other side of the couch.” i clarify dejectedly, nearly ready to give up. “you don’t do things with me. and if i try, you wave me off.”

“i just- i don’t understand where this is coming from.” he tells me, and i slump on the end of the bed, furiously wiping away tears that have begun to fall.

“that’s just it. you assume i’m fine with this, because i’ve let it go on for too long. i’ve sat here, and i’ve painted you in the best colors, and i’ve put you on this pedestal. i told myself that if i just did more- if i just did anything you could ever hope for- then we would be fine. that eventually you’ll love me again and you’ll treat me how you used to and we would be happy. but instead i watch you live your life and i’m delegated to the sidelines, begging to be even a minor part of your life. you tolerate me living with you. you tolerate my existence. and you tolerate my love.

“but i’m done. i can’t do it anymore.” my face falls in my hands, sobs wracking my chest.

i’ve finally given up.

John is quiet, but i can hear his feet padding against the floor for a moment, moving farther away before he comes back.

his fingers spread across my thigh, and when i drag my hands away from my face, opening my eyes to look at him, he’s kneeled on the floor in front of me.

“i’m sorry that you feel i don’t love you anymore. i never meant to make you feel like you’re just tolerated in my life. but i promise you, i see you. i do appreciate everything you do for me, and the love that you give me.”

his hand leaves my skin, fumbling with something in his grasp before holding it up.

my heart skips a beat, those butterflies returning in my stomach as my lips part in surprise. my eyes lock in on the diamond ring that sits in the little black velvet box in his hands.

“i promise, you’re not just going tolerated. i love you, and i want you in my life forever.” my gaze flickers up to his face, and i already begin nodding my head. “will you marry me?”

i nod even faster, an excited grin spreading over my lips, and he smiles softly, removing the ring from the box and slipping it onto my outstretched finger.

i admire it for a second, appreciating how right it looks to have a ring on my finger.

this is it.

this is what i did it all for.

what i’ve waited my whole life for.

my hands cup his face, pulling him in to press my lips to his.

“i love you.” i whisper, my lips still burning for his, and in response, he pulls me in for another kiss.

when we finally part, we begin to get ready for bed, effectively ignoring the outburst i just had. and once we climb into bed, i kiss him once more, melting into his touch like i used to.

“i’m sorry, you must be tired. i took up so much of your time tonight, you could’ve been asleep by now.” i mumble, listening to his heartbeat under the weight of my head.

“it’s okay. don’t apologize.” his fingers run through my hair and he turns off his bedside lamp, blanketing the room in darkness. “i love you.”

i fully plan on responding, but amongst the comfort, my eyes have already turned heavy, and speaking feels like too much work. my breathing evens out as i bask in the closeness of this moment.

i love him.

[andkisses]

♡ roman holiday | sunghoon ♡

will this bucket list trip be the thing that finally forces you to face your feelings? or will it be the thing that tears the two of you apart for good?

♡ sunghoon x gn!reader | wc. 9.4k ♡ genres/tropes: childhood friends to lovers and the fluff and angst that comes with it, college!au (not obvious but implied), road trips ♡ mentions of/warnings: arguments, references to a toxic family environment, allusions to drowning, i think that’s all but lmk if there’s smth else that needs added! ♡ a/n: this has been a wip for SOO long we’re talking YEARS and has changed muses several times but i finally sat down to finish this and im so proud of what i managed <3 truly some of my favorite things ive ever written ! inspired by roman holiday by halsey! this is also the longest thing i think i have ever written <3

♡ masterlist ♡

The coffee ring on the counter stares back at you, warm brown against a stark egg white. You can’t tell if it’s old or new, and part of you doesn’t care. Another part wants to know, though, when the coffee stain was made and why it was never cleaned. The motel is practically empty, the older lady behind the front desk and a tired-looking family in the corner of the dining room are the only other inhabitants.

Through the windows, dressed quaintly with homesewn drapes, you see the tall mountain trees, dark green and prickly, stretching up to the crystal blue sky. The television across the room is set to the weather station, and the anchor talks about how a cold front could potentially lead to an early snow. 

A tray with various breakfast items clunks against the table, and the boy you’ve been traveling with settles in across from you, faux leather chair seat squeaking beneath in subtle “I’m hardly ever used” protest. His dark hair falls into his eyes messily, as if he only just now got up and rolled out of bed. The red flannel and vest he wears matches the surroundings, but looks absurd on your best friend.

“Sunghoon,” you start, interlacing your fingers and resting your chin on the bridge they form. Your eyes scan the tray, accounting each and every tiny portion of food. Eggs, both scrambled and hard boiled, some toast with an assortment of little jam containers, a little bowl of butter, two pancakes, half a waffle, and a few strips of bacon. “Thank you for getting everything,” you continue, leveling a stare over the top of your nose, “but you forgot the syrup.”

The boy in front of you blinks, bites his lips, and nods his head. A soft yeah, I forgot the syrup escapes his lips as he slides out of his chair, the pleather squeaking once again. “Give me like two minutes,” he says, “the breakfast bar is crazy to navigate. Do you see the things I do for you?” His smile is teasing.

“It’s no problem, Hoon—” Your voice trails off as he jogs off into the distance. You shake your head, feeling lethargic and sleepy beneath the slow-turning ceiling fan. Your gaze follows its metallic clink, and the fan seems as if it’s never been replaced in the 50-something years this establishment has operated.

You’re brought back down by a small tug on your sleeve, and when you look, it’s the little girl from the tired family across the room. She blinks up at you, not much unlike Sunghoon, innocent and full of curiosity. You nod your head, encouraging her to talk. The little girl takes a big gulp of air, dual pigtails bobbing, before, “I think your boyfriend is very nice and I like how he gets you your breakfast.”

The laugh that leaves you is easy, the statement hardly shocking at all. You’re used to it, strangers and acquaintances alike assuming the relationship status between the two of you. It’s nothing new. The little girl’s face is confused, her head listing to one side. You nod again, swallowing any additional laughter. “He’s not my boyfriend,” you reply, and you see a little bit of the light in her eyes diminish. “We’re just really good friends. He’s my best friend, actually.”

The girl’s brows furrowed together, a small pout forming on her lips. Obviously not the answer she was expecting. Then she nods, lips pursed. “Yeah, okay,” she mutters, seeming confused. Before she turns to walk back to her family, she looks back up and adds, “He’s a good friend. I would keep him as my friend for a long time.”

“That’s what I intend on doing, kiddo.” Your voice is quiet as the little girl skips back across the old, faded carpet towards her family. You see Sunghoon emerge from the breakfast bar, where everyone else at this motel must be. He waves small packets of syrup in the air. The smile that flits across your face is fleeting. You try to ignore, again, this feeling in your chest. Your voice is small, talking to yourself. “For as long as possible.”

***

The candy-colored Valentine stared back at you, practically mocking you. Third grade and only one Valentine. You tried to fight back the tears, attempted to sniff them back inside, but nothing worked. They fell, one by one, onto the homemade card, soaking through the pink construction paper and leaving roundly-shaped wet splotches across your only card.

You read the simple message, “Happy Valentine’s! – Sunghoon”, over and over and over again. You racked your brain, trying to figure out why, why, why no one else gave you a card. You were nice, you offered to help them when they needed it. It seemed like everyone liked you. They even let you sit by them at lunch.

So why?

The hand on your shoulder startled you, your head whipping up to face the figure standing beside the desk. It was Sunghoon, the boy who gave you the only Valentine in your possession. The edges of his dark hair curled around his eyebrows and the corners of his eyes. His brow scrunched with worry, and he ducked down to see your face.

“Are you okay?”

You shook your head, a bitter pout filling out your lips. “Does it look like I’m okay?”

Sunghoon shrugged, removing his hand to pull out the seat beside you. “I guess not.” He pursed his lips, hands clasped in his lap, before looking back at you. “What’s the matter?”

You flung the single Valentine—his own Valentine—back at him. The construction paper flew through the air before catching, floating down to land on the table by Sunghoon, who deftly picked it up and turned it over in his hands.

“It’s the only one you got?”

You nodded, crossing your arms on your desk and sinking into them. A heavy sigh left your chest and you sniffled, trying to keep the angry tears from falling again. You wished the day would end; that the bell would ring and release you so you could go home and cry somewhere comfier instead.

There was silence, then, “Does it matter if you only got one?”

You scoffed, still hidden in your arms. “Uh, duh? It means no one in this class likes me.”

“Then… why does it matter if everyone else doesn’t like you? Shouldn’t one person liking you be okay?”

You bit your lip. You can’t tell if you like his thinking or not. You decided not to respond.

You heard the chair scrape against the wood floor beside you, and you figured it was Sunghoon leaving to return to the other students. That was fine, you figured. It’s what you should expect, anyway. Even if he was the only one who gave you a Valentine, it was probably only because he gave the whole class Valentine’s. What a guy.

Then the chair was drug against the floor again, much closer this time. You popped your head up, a scowl still on your face, to see what was happening. Sunghoon had scooted it closer, and in his hands was another Valentine. You watched as he flipped the card over to the decorated side and skillfully pulled off the foam heart-shaped sticker, as if he’d had to do this thousands of times before.

His question is one you didn’t expect. “Where do you want to go?”

You look up at him, incredulous. “What do you mean?”

“Well, if you don’t have many friends here, you must want to be somewhere else?” Sunghoon shrugged, as if the thought made perfect sense to him. “Right?”

You pursed your lips, mimicking his shrug. “I guess you’re right...”

“Then,” Sunghoon began again, “where do you want to go?”

“Uhm, my house?” you answered. Crying on your fluffy bed would be much more comfortable than crying on this hard desk. Your arms were sore from resting on the edge and your back was stiff from the awkward angle.

Sunghoon shook his head. “No, think bigger. Like, vacation places and stuff.”

“Hmm... then, maybe, the big cities? The ones you always see in TV shows. And... the beach, because the ocean is really nice.”

Sunghoon nodded, diligently taking note of every place you suggested. His handwriting is a little crooked, but it fit on the now vacant front of a Valentine’s card. He looked up at you, eyes wide with question. “Anywhere else?”

You frowned, deep in thought. Then, as if someone tapped you on the shoulder and whispered it in your ear, an idea sprung to mind. “A really tall mountain, where it’s snowy all the time. No matter the season”

The pencil lead pulled across the paper, leaving information behind. Sunghoon returned to the top of the page, tapping the pencil’s eraser on the side of his cheek before scribbling a final note down. “There! It’s finished!” He slid it over in front of you.

You read the title of the list aloud: “The Wanderlist? But that isn’t even a word.”

Sunghoon shook his head. “It is now.” He leaned over, pointing at all the places you had stated. “And that’s everywhere we’re gonna go, because I’m your best friend now. We won’t be lonely, because we have each other. And we’re gonna travel all over.”

You sat up, leveling him a stare. “Well, this is gonna be expensive, you know. Trips aren’t free. They cost a lot.”

Sunghoon smiled, the kind that, even for a tin moment, makes everything seem like it’s possible. “Then we better start saving now!”

 ***

The pink paper stares up at you from its place on the dashboard, stuck with a random sticker right next to the air vent. The edges had aged, curling and warping, and your tear stains from 3rd grade are still faintly visible. You read over the list—your wanderlist, as Sunghoon had named it all those years ago.

1. Big cities (because TV) x2!!

2. The beach (because cool ocean)

3. Tall mountain (because always snow)

The big city had been marked off in 6th grade, when the class had a trip to the modern art museum, and again in 8th grade for a series of school-wide competitions, from writing and art to band to mathematics and science. Sunghoon had excelled at creative writing while you swept the math category for your region.

The beach was crossed off the day before the two of you left for college. How bitter it was that you had to be separated, together for ten years only to be settled in two different places. Yes, you weren’t that far away. A half day’s drive. But you both knew, deep down, how likely seeing each other was.

So you did something about it. The day before, you woke up before the sun. You loaded his car up with everything you would need for a daytrip, and you took off for the coast. You spent the whole day, afternoon, and evening parked at a spot on the beach. If you think about it now, you can still smell the seabreeze, imagine it in your hair. You can hear Sunghoon’s laugh, about what, you can’t remember. You do remember how happy you both were.

You remember sitting side by side, sharing a blanket over your shoulders as the seabreeze grew colder, watching the sun disappear on the horizon. You remember the thoughts you had–the ones you normally stamped down and annoyed. You should tell him. You’d been so close before. You wouldn’t even say the word to yourself, but you knew.

You didn’t say anything

“Can you believe these clouds?” Sunghoon says, slipping into the driver's seat and shutting the door. He places his keys into the ignition and turns like he always had. You watch the keychain you got him freshman year of high school swing from momentum. When you look back up, Sunghoon is watching you, leaning one elbow on the center console, hair in his eyes. “I suppose even the weather believes my sunny disposition is more than enough.”

“Oh, please,” you scoff, smacking his shoulder. You turn to look out the window, biting your lip. You’ve got to get it together. You blame that little girl from breakfast. You’d been doing just fine not thinking about Sunghoon in That Way. Now here you were, all these stupid feelings drummed up.

It doesn’t help that Sunghoon pulls out a cassette–MT-PSH-5–and pops it into the player. His smile grows wide as he turns out of the parking lot and onto the road, heading further up the mountain. “Nothing like some classic tunes.”

It was dumb. It didn’t mean anything.

It’s all you can think about.

Sneaking out late, hot summer heat still sticky and oppressing. You could feel the waves rise up from the concrete as it finally felt relief in the moonlight. You’d felt like dressing up, sneaking into your mother’s room and applying her fancy department store perfume to the nape of your neck. Your fingers gracefully found her pearls in the glass bowl on the dresser as you left, and you pulled them over your head, letting them rest against your collar bone. They’re still cool against your hot skin.

You escaped through the back patio, walking past the fist-sized hole in the drywall you wished you could forget about. The dusty edges kept raining down debris if someone walked too close to it. You let yourself out the gate in the fence, pulling it shut behind you. You felt for the keys to the front door in your pocket, and they jingled in response. You clasped your hand around the cool metal, the cuts sharp and edgy beneath your palm.

He met you at the corner of his street and yours, his dark hair swallowing up the soft moonlight. It made his features seem younger, softer. It felt like you were kids again.

You fell in line beside each other, walking the empty streets without fear. Who was to stop some teenagers walking the street at midnight? Random cars passed by, people finally returning home from the late shift but paying no mind to you two. And that was fine; you didn’t want them to care.

The black gates around the community pool glinted in the yellow streetlights, reaching out to you like a beacon. The closer you drew, the more the overwhelming scent of chlorine filled the air. You walked forward, hands in your jacket pockets, one wrapped tightly around your house keys. You took a deep, steadying breath. This was fine. You had this.

“Hey, [Y/N], do we really have to do this?”

You rolled your eyes, pulling your hands from your pockets and grabbing the top of the fence. You’d have to pull yourself up, and be extra careful of the metal pickets at the top. It’d be tough, but you could make it. “What?” you snapped back lightly, voice echoing amongst the night. “Scared of hopping the fence?”

“No, that’d be ridiculous,” Sunghoon replied, crossing his arms and shifting his weight to rest on one foot. “Jumping fences is nothing for me. Jumping fences into property that—” he pointed to a white and red sign just beside your knees. “—considers jumping fences into property after hours as illegal and trespassing? That sets me on edge.”

You sighed, rolling your eyes again. “It’s not like they’ve got police roaming around or anything, and the owner’s too cheap for security cameras. I’m sure if we tried hard enough, we could just pull the fence down instead of having to jump it.” For emphasis, you grabbed hold of the rods and shook. A loud metallic echo escaped into the night, and before you could pull back and shake a third time, Sunghoon had dashed to your side, placing his hands on yours to stop you.

His brown eyes caught the light as he shook his head back and forth and hissed, “If you’re going to do something illegal, do it quietly! Especially when I’m here.”

You leaned forward, head inching towards his, with a scowl on your face. “Then shut up and hop the fence.” You drew back, replacing your hands at the top and pulled yourself up and over with ease. Maybe mandatory PE did have benefits.. Your sneakers landed on the pavement, and when you stood upright from the landing, you stared at Sunghoon through the bars. “You can either join me,” you began, a smirk on your face, chin tilted up, “or you could just wait while I go and find my car keys.”

You turned on your heels, walking towards the lifeguard’s shack. You could have sworn the sigh you heard was strong enough to blow the fence down altogether

Your shoes scuffed against the concrete, and you felt the humid air of the pool spill over and try to reach out to you. Its arms clung and bit at your ankles as the water inside sloshed around with the teasing wind. You shook them off, changing course from the pool’s edge to the guard’s shack. The padlock on the door seemed old—really old—and you crossed your fingers before giving a giant tug and having it pop open in your hands.

The wooden door swung open and you stepped inside the dingy shack. Various lost pool toys littered the floor, and a box of deflated tricolor beach balls appeared to have seen better days. But you weren’t interested in any of that: you needed your car keys. Above you, nestled nearly at the top of the peaked roof was a loft filled with white plastic bins. One of them, you noted, was closer to the edge than the others, as if someone had lazily swung it up there.

You crossed your fingers again, reaching up to pull the basket down to you. “Please be there, please be there, please be there,” you chanted under your breath. You peered into the basket. On top, someone’s embroidered handkerchief. You pinched the soft material between your finger and thumb before tossing it aside in the basket. Someone’s crazy straw, two Rubik’s Cubes, a school ID lanyard, and—yes!

You fished your car keys out with one hand and swung the basket back up into the loft with the other. You turned to leave, ready to find Sunghoon, reunite with your car, and drive home, but before you can even take a single step back out you’ve run into something.

Or someone.

Your scream’s instantly shushed by your best friend, a single finger coming up against your lips. Sunghoon was so close, and you felt the pool humidity roll off his shoulders as he looked at you with confusion. “Are you done?” he asked. “And why are you screaming?”

You shook your head, holding up your keys. “Yes. Also, you scared me. How did you get in here? I didn’t think you’d hop the fence.”

“Didn’t have to.” Sunghoon held up a matching padlock to the one you’d pulled off outside. “Looks like the owner’s too cheap to buy actual locks for his gates. I simply walked in.”

You left the lifeguard’s shack, replacing the lock and headed for the entrance, where Sunghoon easily swung open the wrought iron gate. You walked towards your car as Sunghoon redid the lock, simply looping it through and clicking it shut.

You kissed your car keys and unlocked the doors, swinging down into the driver’s seat. Sunghoon slid into the passenger seat beside you, and as soon as his door shut, the engine was starting and you were pulling out of the parking spot.

“Let a guy put on his seatbelt first?” Sunghoon joked as he clicked his into place. “I don’t see you wearing yours, [Y/N].”

“Then you’re not looking close enough,” you replied, taking one hand off the wheel to pull at your own seatbelt. “Seems as if someone isn’t paying attention.”

“Forgive me, I was busy making sure no one saw our illegal activity. I would like to graduate high school next year with a clean record.”

You laughed something similar to a scoff as you flicked on your turn signal and made your way down his street. “You say that as if we robbed a bank. Is it really trespassing if the locks don’t even work? The wind could have undone them.” You turned to catch a glance at your friend, and what you caught was a judgmental glare in the green glow of the dashboard.

With a simple curve of the steering wheel, you pulled in front of his house. You shifted the car in park and rotated towards the passenger seat. “Thanks for breaking the law with me, Sunghoon. It means a lot. I’m touched.”

“Yeah, yeah, sure,” he muttered, running a hand through his hair. He leaned towards the door, making as if to pull the handle and open it, when he reached inside his pocket. His eyes lit up and he turned back towards you. “Oh, yeah!”

You shook your head, confused. You hold a single hand up. “Oh, yeah, what?”

“Here’s that mixtape you wanted,” Sunghoon answers, placing a cassette tape in your unintentionally outstretched hand. You scowled. You didn’t know how he had the technology to make a cassette in this day and age, but then again, you were the one with a car so old it still had a cassette player. You two were a pair, you supposed.

“When did you finish it?” you asked, spinning it around in your hands. The clear, Sharpie handwriting read MT-PSH-5 on the short white label.

“This morning,” he replied, fiddling with the hem of his shirt.

“Why didn’t you give it to me earlier, then?” You turn to look at him. The yellow glow of the streetlights blend in with the green of the dashboard lights. His eyes remained that entrancing brown color, though. Romantic and homey all at once, untouchable by any other shade.

Sunghoon shrugged. “Perhaps it was because you didn’t have a car to play it in when I finished it? It was unavailable to you, shall we say.”

“Ha, ha, very funny.” You kept turning the cassette in your hands, as if you’d find something new and exciting on each turn.

“Oh, and—” Sunghoon leaned across the center console, reaching to take the tape from your hands, like he had something to say or show you. But he stopped. His brows furrowed together, and he turned to you, face mere inches from your own. “Are you wearing perfume?”

You nodded. “Yeah. My mom’s, and I got mad at her since she got mad at me about the car so I...”

An eyebrow quirked up. “You’re showing your mom up by stealing some of her perfume?”

“It’s expensive,” you muttered, sliding down into your seat. “She’ll have to pay for it later. Literally.”

And with that, he laughed. Nice and hearty and his eyes turned into tiny crescent moons and you felt your heart flutter—something that had happened a lot as of late, and you’re not entirely sure why. Yes, Sunghoon was a good friend. A best friend. But that’s all he was. He—

“Hey.” Your attention snapped from a distance spot on the road over to him, and he felt even closer now for some reason. Your heart registered how soft he’d spoken and proceeded to beat faster because of it. His eyes searched yours, but for what you don’t know. When he spoke again, his voice was quiet. “Make sure you get home safe, okay? Wouldn’t want anything happening to the city’s greatest delinquent.”

“Yeah,” you laughed, but it was short and stilted. You barely heard what he said over the thumping of your own blood in your ears. You felt the red flush creep up your neck, dusting your cheeks and turning your ears a cherry color. When you swallowed, your mouth suddenly dry, all you could think about was how loud it seemed. Your grip on the mixtape tightened, it seemingly the only thing tethering you to the real world.

You couldn’t tell if the radio was one or not or whether you’d turned car off and left the keys in the ignition. All you could tell was Sunghoon, so close and so real he almost seemed unreal. And then it happened. He leaned in, eyes fluttering shut before placing a soft kiss on the side of your cheek, right next to your lips. It happened too fast and it was the slowest moment of your life all at once. Your heart was practically screaming now, hands rattling around the mixtape.

When he pulled back, he kept going, opening the car door and stepping out. Before closing it, he leaned in and nodded. “I meant what I said about getting back safely. Promise?”

You nodded. “I promise.” You were surprised your voice worked at all. That you were able to form a coherent, albeit a simplistic, sentence. That you could think at all. The door swung shut and you shifted the car into drive.

The whole way home felt automatic, limbs working separate from your internal instructions. When you returned home, you pulled up beside your mailbox and turned the car off, pulling the keys and letting them rest in your hand. You sat motionless, seatbelt still in place, as you stared, eyes fixated at someone mindless spot on the dashboard. The pearls were cool against your heated skin.

It was dumb. It didn’t mean anything.

It’s all you can think about.

You flip the mixtape over in your hands, reading the slightly-faded yet still legible handwriting. MT-HVC-5. You’d run through the songs already, and Sunghoon had switched to some CD mixes he had brought. Why he didn’t get a car with Bluetooth, something you’d done a while ago, you’d never know. Maybe that was part of his charm. 

You’d managed to learn to forget about that kiss, or at least ignore it. But Sunghoon pulling out the mixtape he’d given you that night pulls it back up to the surface. You aren’t even sure how it even got into his possession. The longer you recall the memory, the more you can feel the burn on your cheek from where his warm lips touched your skin. The rest of the flush comes back from how you wish so badly it would happen again.

  “What’s up?”

“Huh?” You turn towards his voice, away from the window.

“I asked what’s up,” Sunghoon repeats, looking over at you for a split second before returning to the road. “You seem like we’re on another planet.”

“Just thinking about when we were younger, you know...” Did he? What did you want him to think about? The day you’ve been obsessing over? And then what would he do about it? Pull over and confess? Kiss you, but mean it this time?

Sunghoon laughs, breaking your thoughts. He spares another quick glance in your direction. “Younger like what? Like third grade or two days ago?”

You reach across the center console to smack his shoulder. “Why would it be two days ago?”

“We were younger then. Wild, foolish.” Sunghoon takes one hand off the wheel and places his knuckles on his forehead. “The way we were is actually unimaginable now.”

“I’m done with you.”

Sunghoon scoffs. “Sure you are.” A quick beat, a hum to the music. “Anyway, what were you thinking about?”

You’re quiet for a moment. Then, “Do you think we'll change?”

“We have changed.”

“Really?” He said it so simply, it takes you off guard. You turn to look at him, even though you know he’ll keep his eyes glued safely to the road.

“Yeah,” he shrugs. “We’ve totally changed. We don't like the same kinds of music as the old us used to. We don't eat mac and cheese for every conceivable meal—except for the day after that one chem exam.”

“That final was hard!” You reach across the center console to shove at his shoulder–oh, god, why do you keep finding ways to put your hands on him?–earning a smug grin. “None of it was covered in class and you know it!”

“See what I mean?” Sunghoon asks. “We're different, but like, a good different. We’ve adapted.”

The silence that fills the car after isn’t weighty or overbearing. It’s comfortable and common, safe like a child-loved security blanket. Yet, somehow, your stomach fills with stones of dread, and all you want to do is sleep off any bad feelings.

You keep your eyes trained ahead, the curving mountain road, when you ask, “Do you ever think we'll be bad different?

Sunghoon spares a confused glance at you, brows knit together as he switches focus between you and the road. He shakes his head. “No, not us. Never us.”

“Is that a promise?”

The hand closest to you leaves the steering wheel and drifts over the center console, pinky out. “Always.”

You wrap your pinky around his, and try to ignore the heated flush you feel creeping up your neck and the backs of your ears. You focus, instead, on how real Sunghoon feels. How solid the mixtape is in your hands. How, here out in what feels like the middle of nowhere surrounded by evergreens and roadside snow piles that have started to pop up and tall mountain views, time doesn’t feel like it can get you.

Maybe he’s right.

Maybe, out here, there’s only good different.

Maybe, that’s all you need.

The clouds from the morning have turned darker, more potent. You can smell rain in the air, hear it as the wind rushes through the trees. It’s so cold though, you wonder if it will snow instead. The mountain weather you’d been looking forward to for so long.

Sunghoon knocks his shoulder into yours, cheeks pink from the cold. He swings your duffle bag towards you, letting go of the strap before you’ve gotten a good grip on it. “Your luggage,” he declares, before marching towards the hotel entrance.

You’d both decided, with your combined measly college student incomes, that wherever the last hotel would be, it needed to be the best you could afford. Standing in front of it now, styled like a fancy chateau with white walls and a red roof, you think the two of you made the right choice.

You had forgot what made such a nice place so affordable, until Sunghoon swipes the key, opens the door for you, gesturing for you to walk in first. The room is cute and delicate, with pretty yet aged wainscotting, petite floral wallpaper, a nice view of the surrounding mountains and–

And one bed.

You freeze. You can’t help it. Maybe the you from this morning, before that girl talked to you, could handle this. The you of right now? The lady at the front desk calling you a cute couple, and Sunghoon going along with it and not correcting her, didn’t help. You aren’t sure if you’re strong enough to keep everything the same.

“Rats,” Sunghoon says, and you breathe a sigh of relief. He’s not cool with this either, you think. He turns toward you with a coy smile. “I’m gonna go back downstairs and ask for more pillows. Three simply won’t cut it. Want me to ask for some fancy water?”

You shake your head, voice gone, and you don’t move until you hear the door shut behind Sunghoon.

And that’s when it starts, as you drag your feet in circles trying to think your way through this. Your hands clench and unclench, fists forming so tightly you leave half-moons from your nails in the fleshy part of your palm. Your breath comes ragged and shallow, and you feel like drowning, except from too much instead of not enough. Too many memories reminding you of too many things. Too many emotions leading to too many feelings you neither want to recognize or acknowledge.

But one keeps pushing its way to the forefront, demanding attention and definition. The one that’s been bothering you all day. It makes you dizzy, to the point you feel you need to lay down and clutch at your stomach. Maybe that’s it, you think as you sit on the edge of the one bed. You’re just sick. Breakfast was bad. But you know it’s not. It makes you angry, because how dare you feel this way about him. It makes you flustered, since you shouldn't look at your best friend's face and have your gaze wander to his lips and wonder what they'd feel like against yours.

It makes you happy, so undeniably happy that you feel like crying, because it feels so right. When you allow yourself to think more about it, and imagine what life would be like if you were able to confirm and agree with all the strangers who already think you’re dating. Lovers. It fills you up with breaths of fresh air to the point it's like floating on cotton clouds.

It makes you fearful. Its dark side claws at your heart, threatening to tear at the tender seams and leave you bloody and raw, so intensely damaged you're afraid of doing anything along the same lines. You had asked about a bad different, and Sunghoon said it wasn’t possible. Right now, you feel like you have to disagree–confessing this? Altering the relationship you’ve carefully crafted for so long?

That would be a bad different.

That’s why, when Sunghoon comes back, three more pillows and a bottle of sparkling water, you don’t answer. You roll over on the bed, curling up away from him, hiding with a pillow on your head. You hear Sunghoon say something about it being a long drive, and he gets it, you should rest. You hear him open the closet door, then feel the spare blanket get draped over you.

And, as you lay here, hot silent tears threatening to spill over and run down your cheeks, you let yourself think about it. You're in love with your best friend. Your nail-bitten palms come to swipe at your eyes, you make the mistake of sniffing aloud. Sunghoon calls your name, and you hate how much you savor the worry in his voice.

But, it’s also too much. He can’t know, you decide. Not now, not ever. That is what would be best, you decide, for the two of you. To be able to get through the rest of this trip.

“[Y/N], what is it?” he calls again. Sunghoon’s voice is laced with care, something tender and soft and so distinctly him it pulls at the tears in your eyes. How can he make this so unfair? “What's wrong?”

“You wouldn't understand,” you snap, pulling yourself to sit up, the pillow falling off. You don’t look at him, but instead at your hands, fists in your lap. Sunghoon easily notes your posture, and confusion floods his features. You hate how quickly he can figure out something’s wrong, that something is bothering you.

“Can I try to understand, at least?” You look up at him, lips pursed, tears smarting your eyes. You take him in–turned towards you in the chair, sitting on the edge, like he can jump to your rescue at any time. The confused look in his eyes hurts—you've always been straightforward with one another. But you know you can’t about this. “I can’t try to fix it if you don’t tell me what’s wrong.” 

     You shake your head, wiping one of your cheeks with your fingers, a half laugh falling from your lips. “No, Hoon it's—”

   “No.”

The force of the single word hits you, and it hurts more than the angry look in his eye.

   He stands, takes a step toward you, then sits hesitantly on the edge of the bed. He's close, and he's been closer, but it's still too much. The rushing sound is back in your ears and your heart pounds against your ribs, telling you to do something, anything, but you stay still.

   “Hoon—”

   “I said no, [Y/N].” Sunghoon’s words are ice, colder than the breeze outside and sharper than butcher knives. His eyes, once warm and homey, that romantic shade of brown you love, are now dark and piercing. “You don't get to call me special names when you aren't telling me what's wrong. When you aren't acting like the [Y/N] I've known since third grade.” His hands come up to run through his hair, and it flips slowly back into place. His voice drops, the softer, confused Sunghoon returning. “You've been acting weird this whole trip, and especially since this morning. It's driving me insane that I can't figure it out and fix it. I know you better than this.”

   He's so close, so, so close. Much too close. Somehow he’s scooted towards you on the bed. You can smell his cologne—when did he start doing that? Why hadn’t you noticed earlier? His eyes are back to the romantic brown, the warm and homey color, the ones that remind you of so many good memories—his eyes are so pretty. Your gaze follows its past patterns and drops to his lips, redder from being gnawed on with worry. A kiss would—

   A shaky breath leaves you, and you're talking before you realize, voice so small it's hard to hear. But Sunghoon is listening. He always does.

   You blink. “Do you want to know what's wrong?”

   “Of course. I need to know if I can do anything or—”

   “It's you.”

You want to be upset, angry. How dare it come to this. But you can’t, you realize. You can’t be angry at him. Whatever energy you had coursing through your veins leaves after your pseudo confession, and you turn away, resting your weight on the headboard, hoping he’ll go away. 

This, for certain, was bad different. You can feel it, weighing you down. Here, in a chilly, single bed hotel room, you’d ruined everything. Your brain told you to shut up, to be quiet, to try and save anything you could manage from this shattering relationship. But your mouth—or maybe your heart—kept going, and going, and going.

“It’s you,” you repeat, turning back towards him. He’s still there, frozen in place, face filled with concern. “It’s everything you do. The way you... you tell me bad jokes when I’m upset over a grade or make me mixtapes because you want to share your music with me. It’s–I’m–I’m sick of it. I hate it. I hate you”

Sunghoon recoils, eyes wide. He looks around the room, as if the answers to what to say are hidden around. He stands, backing up without turning away, like you’re something he has to keep his eyes on or he’ll get hurt again.

Again.

Sunghoon’s voice is flat when he speaks, like he’s out of breath. Shaky, like he’s about to cry, too. What have you done? “I’m… I’ll go downstairs and ask about if there’s anything nice around for dinner. I’ll–I’ll wait for you in the lobby. Whenever you’re ready, you know.”

Even now, after the nasty things–after I hate you left your lips–he’s still trying to make peace with you.

What did you do to ever deserve him?

And would he even stay with you once you return home?

The door falling shut is what starts your tears again. You slump down off the bed, between it and the window. You pull your knees up to your chest, put your head in your hands, and you cry.

***

It still isn’t over.

You’re breathing heavy, tears still stinging your eyes, but you aren’t sure if you’ve actually cried yet or not. Your fists are balled at your sides. Years of friendship are stuck in your throat, enough to make you want to scream or cry or vomit from the nauseous feeling it induces. The pouring rain, those clouds finally opening up, doesn’t help.

Dinner had been awful, awkward. The only person either of you talked to had been the waiter. You can’t remember what the food tasted like. You can’t remember what, if any, songs played on the radio on the way back. Sunghoon hadn’t bothered to pick anything out. All you could remember, or hear, or see in your head–I hate you. The look in his eyes. How he has barely looked at you since.

You aren’t sure what you have to do to get away, but you’d be willing to make a deal.

Anything to get away from this moment.

Anything to get away from your best friend.

Sunghoon stares at you like he’s only just now met you, and maybe he has. He’d stopped you halfway between the car and the hotel’s entrance, despite the rain. He’d called your name in such a way you froze. Your angered confession from earlier hangs in the air, untouched or acknowledged. A single parking lot light illuminates you two, dim yellow casting shadows through the rain.

“Do you mean that? What you said?” he asks, daring to step forward. You don’t move, anchored in place. By fear or something else, you aren’t sure. He takes another, then a third. The gap between you has been halved. “I know you don’t mean it. I’ve been thinking about it this whole time. You don’t mean it.”

“What makes you so sure?” you spit, taking a step closer in your upset. You level Sunghoon with a stare you hope is intimidating, bitter. You hope he sees the duress. You have to push him away. “I said what I said. I hate you, Park Sunghoon.”

The boy shakes his head, hair stuck to his forehead from the rain. He seems almost incredulous, and it angers you even more. Why doesn’t he get it? There’s a small smirk at the corners of his lips, but you’ve known him long enough to recognize it as mock confidence. “You didn’t mean what you said.”

“I did!” Another step, and now you’re nose to nose with him, staring into the eyes you’ve had memorized for so long, that romantic brown even in the rain and yellow streetlight. Your gaze betrays you and you drink in the slope of his nose, see how his eyes examine you as well. Note the downturn of his lips, almost unnoticeable. Your voice is weaker when you speak again. “I did mean it, Sunghoon.”

He leans in, closer and closer until he stops–a breath away from your lips. He freezes, closes his eyes, and waits.

And you cave, despite your best interests. You find yourself tilting your head and wishing he’d do something more. This can’t be how your first kiss with Sunghoon goes? When he pulls back, and you nearly stumble forward. You look up at him, and the smile on his face is no longer mock. You know what his question will be before he says it, and you know he’s caught you in your lie. “You hate me so much–why did you kiss me back?”

You want to spit back, I didn’t! You want to argue. But the truth is, ever since you’d remembered that day in high school, you’d been imagining what it would be like to actually kiss him, and again, and again. You wanted to know what kissing Sunghoon would be like, even if it meant redefining the relationship you worked so hard to keep as is. The one you said you hated him to protect.

Sunghoon gently cups the sides of your face, forcing you to look at him, and you see worry and concern etched into the space between his brows, spilt in the color of his eyes. “Tell me,” he whispers, voice almost breaking, “what’s wrong. Let me try to fix it.”

You shake your head, trying to form words to explain everything, but all you do is shiver drastically beneath his touch. You watch as Sunghoon’s eyes grow wide, and he leads you inside, arm over your shoulder. The woman at the front desks awards you a quirked eyebrow, but that’s all you get before she returns to her clipboard.

The room is icy cold when you return, but Sunghoon adjusts the temperature in silence. “You get dry first,” he says, pointing at the bathroom. “Take a shower and get warm.”

“But about you?” You want to point out the subtle shake in his hands, and the way his breath catches. “There’s not enough towels to share.”

“I’ll ask for more at the front desk. I’ll be fine. Go.”

The shower water never feels hot enough, but you do stop shivering. You do your best to towel dry your hair. When you peek the door open to see if he’s back, and if you could get your things, you see that Sunghoon has already done it for you. Everything you could need taken from your bag, folded and placed nicely right outside the door. You have no idea when he did it–you’re thankful he did.

When he comes back with extra towels–which, surely, did not take this long–you’re curled up on the bed, similar to before. You rest your weight on the headboard, looking out the window at how the rain patters against the glass. You wish you could see the stars.

Sunghoon is fast, but who’s to say? You aren’t exactly keeping track of time. You know he’s back because you feel the mattress shift. His voice is almost silent when he speaks. “Can we talk?”

“About what?” you ask, turning towards him. You haven’t seen Sunghoon look this tired in a while. And you know it’s your fault. “How I was mean to you?”

Sunghoon smiles, looking down at his clasped hands. He takes a moment to determine what he actually wants to say. “Let’s start with…what it is about me that made you say that?”

His eyes are pleading in the dark. The room is barely lit, the overhead light off. There’s just a lamp on the desk and the streetlight from outside. The rain sound is almost overwhelming in the silence. “If there’s something I’ve done that hurt you–”

“It’s not that. It’s–” You pause, trying to find the right thing to say. You decide to start with the obvious. “There’s a reason I kissed you outside.”

Sunghoon rolls his eyes. “Yeah, because I’m charming and irresistible.”

“This is serious!” You do what you always do when he makes some kind of quip–you reach out to push his shoulder, scooting closer, but Sunghoon catches you by your wrist.

“I am serious. Do you know how much you hurt me when you said you hated me?” He levels you a stare, one that makes you want to shrink away, but you can’t. “When I left, I didn’t ask the front desk about restaurants. I went to my car and sat down and cried because the person I love just said they hated me.”

“You love me?”

“Not like that,” he corrects, and now you have to know what he means.

“Tell me how then.” You take your free hand and grab his other wrist, a mirror of what he’s done to you. “When you say you love me, what do you mean?”

“It’s not like you think, not like what it has been.” Sunghoon looks down, takes a deep breath, then carries on.  “Not like friends, or like siblings, but like–”

“Lovers?” you offer.

Sunghoon swallows, sets his jaw. Then, “Yes. Like that. And I don’t know when it happened. I don’t know if it was overnight or gradual or all at once. I do know that I woke up one morning and I realized that I didn’t want to imagine my future with anyone else. And I didn’t want to see you with anyone else, either.”

“Kinda selfish,” you say.

Sunghoon laughs. “Yeah. I couldn’t help it.”

Somehow, you’ve both moved closer to each other. The knees of your crossed legs knock into each other. You still have a hold on the other’s wrist. Sunghoon levels you another stare. “Will you tell me why?”

“Why I said I hated you?” He nods, and you take a deep sigh. “Do you remember the night we snuck into the pool to get my car keys back?”

He nods again, a small smile on his face. “You mean the first night I got enough courage to kiss you? You looked so pretty, with the pearls and the perfume.”

You blush, hearing Sunghoon talk about you like that. “That night. I’ve been thinking a lot about it. And you know how all these people always say we look like a couple or whatever. And it all just stuck together and made me realize that I haven’t seen you like a friend in a long time. I’ve seen you like–”

“A lover?” Sunghoon offers, copying you from earlier.

You smile. “I said I hated you because I was afraid and overwhelmed, and I need you away from me. I thought that if you hated me, I could get over you and just move on. We could make up, and I wouldn’t have these feelings anymore, and we could go back to being friends.

“But if I’m being honest,” you add, moving even closer. Your shoulders knock into one other. “Even though it wasn’t even that long, those hours over dinner just now were some of the worst things I have ever had to do. I was ugly to you, Sunghoon, and you’re the last person on earth who would ever deserve to be talked to that way. But if you could forgive me, I…”

You try to look down again, but Sunghoon lets go of your wrist to place a finger under your chin, tipping your head up to his gaze. “You what?”

“I love you. I’m in love with you, I’ve been in love with you. I love you, Park Sunghoon.” You take a deep breath, just as lightning strikes somewhere far away and the thunder rumbles through the room. 

Sunghoon reaches out for you, his hands reach cupping your face again. It’s the most reverent you’ve ever seen him. His eyes roam over your every feature, as if you’ll break if he breathes too hard. It’s thrilling. “Genuinely?” he asks, voice fragile. “You love me?”

“Yes,” you whisper. It feels wrong to be too loud right now, like someone else could join in this moment between the two of you. “And if you would have me, I’d like to love you for a long time after this.”

Sunghoon pulls you to him, resting your forehead against his. He takes a deep breath. Then, “We’ve both just been really, really stupid about it, haven’t we?”

You laugh, savoring his touch and his warm and his smile. You stare into his eyes, those romantic brown ones you love so much. “I guess so.”

“Can I kiss you?” he asks, and your heart jumps. “I know we did outside, but that’s a terrible story for a first kiss.”

“And the one from so long ago doesn’t count, because you just gave me a kiss then,” you say, not sure why you’re rambling when you have the opportunity to just kiss him already.

So, you shut up, and you do.

This kiss is reverent, unlike any that came before. You probably shouldn’t even bother comparing them. Maybe it’s the intentions behind the kiss—that you both want to be here, doing this, for the sake of just being, not proving. Maybe it’s because it hasn’t followed any dramatic late night outings or arguments. Maybe, it’s how you shiver closer to his frame, hands on his shoulders, and his own find the small of your back. You feel his smile against your lips, and the butterflies against your ribs.

Maybe, you should have said something a while ago. You could have avoided the whole I hate you stint, but then would anything else have been dramatic? Some couples are like puzzle pieces, perfectly fitting together with no stress. And maybe you two are a puzzle, one that fits together with ease, but you both intentionally hid pieces from the other, making it difficult to complete. Maybe airing grievances is the only way to get all the pieces back on the table.

You sigh as Sunghoon’s lips travel from your own down the line of your jaw, tickling in a delightful way. You feel safe in his arms, a safe you’ve always felt, but now it feels like something more, something even greater. Your heart jumps, and you throw your arms around his neck, pulling him close. Sunghoon instinctively holds you tighter, his hands against your shoulder blades.

“What is it?” he asks.

You shake your head, finding any words to be incredibly difficult. “I’m just—I’m glad.”

Sunghoon pulls back gently, quirking his head to one side as he looks at you. He uses the pad of his thumb to gently wipe away a stray tear. “Glad for what?” he asks, still cupping your cheek.

You lean into his touch, feeling dizzy with excitement and relief. “Glad that it’s you,” you say, your voice quiet. You lean in, placing a chaste kiss against his lips and, for once, he’s the one to shiver. “I’m glad you’re the one I love. Glad we’re here now, finally.”

Sunghoon pauses. His eyes dart between yours, your lips, and back. He rests his forehead on yours again, and you can already imagine getting used to this, and craving it when you can’t have it. “I waited so long, and I didn’t even know if...” There’s a catch in his voice, and he sounds like he’s about to cry. When he opens his eyes, there’s an honesty to them, a gaze you’ve only seen in Sunghoon’s eyes a handful of times. He smiles, his eyes going soft once more, like you are the most beautiful thing he has ever beheld. And to him, you are. “I always knew we were meant to be.”

***

The lady behind the desk did, in fact, look at you two like you were crazy. The night before you were acting like you were gonna tear each other to pieces. But now you’re walking out in each other’s arms? His around your shoulder, yours around his waist?

The sun is out, and there’s hardly any evidence of the downpour from last night. Maybe the earth needed to be just as dramatic as the two of you.

With the luggage in back, you two climb into the front seats. Sunghoon leans over the center console to press a kiss to your temple, just like he did when you woke up in each other’s arms and just like he did when he insisted on getting you whatever you wanted for breakfast.

“That’s not something new though?” you laugh, as he brings you small portions of everything the hotel had to offer. “You did this before.”

“Well, it’s obviously different now,” he replies. “I didn’t get to kiss you before.”

Now, Sunghoon taps at the Valentine heart on the dash–your wanderlist. What started this all. “We need a new one,” he says. “It took us a while, but we did everything on here. Should the new one be full of cringey couple things?”

“Only if you’d like to go back to being single.”

Sunghoon fakes shock as he shifts the car into gear. “You wouldn’t.”

This time, you lean over to give him a kiss, and you relish how quickly he blushes. “You’re right, I wouldn’t.” You sit back down, still turned towards him, hand atop his. “Maybe, we make the list up as we go. I mean, we’ve never been here before.”

“Didn’t stop third grade us,” he says. “Honestly, they seemed like they had everything together. We should think more like third grade us.”

“You mean complaining about how much things cost? Because I can think of so many things we could do together that would put major dents in our wallets.”

Sunghoon turns to you, a mischievous twinkle in his eye, and you know you’ve got this right, even if it took a while to get here. He reaches over, poking your cheek, before turning out of the parking lot. “Then let’s go find it, together.”

[sorceresski]

Our First Date - Ruben Dias

Summary: you make a new friend on vacation and spend the best evening of your life together

I’m pretty sure I’m the target audience for this😹

She burst out of the restaurant into the cool night, pushing past someone, not caring to apologize.

“Fuck!” She shouted into the street. “All I want is 24 hours of peace! Don’t I deserve that!” Frustration threatened to spill as her vision clouded with tears.

She didn’t take as many vacations as she would like but that meant she could accumulate them and take them all at once. Which is what she planned doing for summer this year. A 2 week long break away from the four walls of her office building.

That is, if her co workers would respect it.

“Damn, and I thought I was having a bad weekend.” She jumped at the sudden intrusion of the stranger’s cool voice, it was the same person she’d bumped into on her way out. She wasn’t short but I had to look up at him, really look.

Dark hair, brown eyes and sporting a beard, he was handsome. He wore a white dress shirt folded at the sleeves and cargo pants and if she tilted her head a little, he almost looked familiar. Although he had an accent, his English was perfect. He was the first person she’d had to interact with without google translate.

“I’m sorry for my rudeness earlier…I just have a lot going on.”

He eyed her. “I never would have guessed,” he said, a smirk playing on his lips. “I’m Ruben.”

She stared at his outstretched hand, suddenly realizing she was talking to a stranger on a dark street, save for a distant street lamp, while travelling solo in a country she didn’t understand the language. She shook his hand tentatively, wondering if she should give him a fake name.

“Rebecca.”

“Did you just give me a fake name?”

“What? No, that’s actually my name,” he threw up his hands at her sudden defensiveness.

The waiter who had been standing to the side with her check, worried she was about to dine and dash, took this as his opportunity, “Erm, excuse me…your…” he waved the paper.

“Oh.” Relief flooded Rebecca’s features, finally an escape. She snatched the paper from him and hurried back into the restaurant throwing an “it was nice meeting you Ruben” behind her.

Settled back at her table, she was about to hand the waiter her card when she noticed the stranger approaching her table with dismay.

“Let me pay for your meal,” Ruben said, casually pulling out the chair across from her.

Rebecca watched silently as he gave his card to the waiter instead. She could tell he was a persistent person and arguing with him would just be a back and forth which he would eventually win.

Ten minutes later, they were outside the restaurant again.

“It’s just…” he glances at the shiny watch on his wrist, “7:30. Do you want to do something else?”

Rebecca sighed. “Look, Ruben, thank you for paying for my meal. I really appreciate it. But I’d really like to get back to my hotel room, my friends are waiting for me.”

He quirked an eyebrow. “Another lie? What if you send a picture of my ID to your friends?”

She thought about it. She did need to take her mind off work and what’s a trip to Portugal without stupidly running off with a handsome stranger into the night?

“Alright.” She took a picture of his ID and sent it to her sister back home with the message “in case I go missing x.”

“You’re Portuguese?” She asked, handing him back his ID.

He nodded, “I am.”

“Great, then you can give a me walking tour.”

They spent the rest of the evening walking, conversation flowed easily. Eventually they found themselves staring at the ocean, they’d somehow ended up on the beach.

It was chilly and deserted save for a few out of place pairs like them. The moonlight reflected off the water disrupted by the crashing waves.

Arm in arm, they walked along the shore, his jacket draped over her shoulder.

“Don’t you miss Portugal? It’s very beautiful here.” Rebecca asked when Ruben revealed he lived in Manchester. “Manchester weather is awful.” She scrunched her nose and he laughed at the gesture, she did that a lot.

“It’s not like I have a choice,” he shrugged. “It’s work.”

“What do you do?”

“I’m a footballer.” She slapped his shoulder.

“That’s why you looked so familiar! For Manchester City?” He nodded, amused. “I’ve seen your face on a few posters here and there.”

“And for Portugal.”

Rebecca faked a swoon. “I didn’t know I had a star on my hands.” They both laughed at that.

Soon, they came to a clearing dotted with trees, their leaves swaying in the canopy above.

“Sometimes I wish I wasn’t a footballer.”

“Don’t say that,” she said. “They can hear you.” He looked at the trees and then at her. “You okay?” And then, not a question, “You really think trees can hear us.”

“Of course not. It’s just something my mother used to say to make us conscious of what we say. But you don’t mean that do you?”

He leaned against a tree. “Okay, I love being a footballer but sometimes I wish I could be a regular guy without someone coming up to me for a selfie or to sign something.”

“No one has approached us all evening.” Rebecca looked around to emphasize her point.

“Because it’s dark.” He deadpanned.

She shrugged. “I would give anything to swap lives with you. You’re doing what you love, well compensated for it and you represent your country at the highest level. Some people can only dream of the life you have.”

He let her words wash over him. “I guess I could practice a little more gratitude.”

They talked for a little bit more until Ruben eventually looked at his watch, “it’s getting late, let’s get you back to your hotel.”

“I never got your number,” Rebecca said when they got to the hotel she was staying in. The exchanged phones to put in their numbers, hugs and promises of a second date when they both returned to England.

A/n: I’ve had this in drafts for almost a month now.

I also didn’t know how to end it🧍🏽‍♀️

[asgirlblog]

You’re Out Boy-scout. Part-2

After parting ways with Felix earlier that afternoon you have not stopped thinking about him. You button up your red cardigan over your white lace top and grab your room keys. You think to yourself that if you pretend not to know where the dining hall is, maybe Felix will take you. You pull out your flip phone and look for his contact.“Felix ;)” it reads. You laugh to yourself.

-“Hey Felix, it’s me y/n. Do you think you could maybe show me to the dining hall if you aren’t too busy? I’m having trouble finding it.”

…

-“Why would I show you to the dining hall..”

Your heart sinks for a moment.

-“I can’t let you have your first meal at Oxford there! Come to the pub with us why don’t you? Meet me in the corridor of your building at 8.”

Your cheeks flush and you reply with a simple “Okay!”. Pacing around your room you decide if you should change into something a bit nicer. Since you spent the afternoon unpacking you open your closet and skim through the few dresses you brought. You decide on a cherry colored dress that stops at the middle of your thigh. It synched at the waist and hugs you in all the right places. The top had spaghetti straps so you through over a cropped cream cardigan. After doing some light makeup and putting your hair in single braid that drapes over your shoulder, you wait for 8 o clock to arrive. Your phone chimes.

-“I’m downstairs.” -“Coming!”

You quickly close the door behind you and make your way to the stairs. As you descend you see Felix standing by the door. He turns around and spots you. He eyes you slowly and it’s almost as if your body is set ablaze. Every time he looks at you, you experience that same feeling. It’s awkward feeling his eyes linger on you, but you never want him to pull them away. “You look nice.” he says with a soft smile not wanting to come off too flirty. You look down and say “Thanks.” You two stand in silence for one second more as you admire him, he’s dressed in a slightly see through pink button up. What was he going for? It was sexy but also relaxed. He notices how you stare. “Well! Off we are!” he says abruptly with a smile. He opens the door for you and you walk through. Oliver, Farleigh, and two other girls stand outside waiting. You wave and grin. The red haired girl flashes a sarcastic smile. “Oh, to formally introduce you. This is Farleigh, and Oliver.” They awkwardly smile at you and you reach out your hand to shake theirs. You tell them your name. “Nice to meet you, this is my first day so-“ “We know.” Farleigh cuts you off before you can finish. “India.” the brown haired girl says with a smile. “That’s Annabelle.” She says throwing her arm around the red haired girl. She waves with a smirk.

You all arrive at the pub and Felix fans you guys over to a table. Oliver places himself to the left of him, so you sit in the chair to the right of him. He’s so tall that when he sits, his long legs spread under the table and his knee brushes against yours. Over the course of the night you only have one drink while everyone else is a little less disciplined. Farleigh blows the smoke from his cigarette across the table and peers over at you. “What would you have done if Felix didn’t approach you today? Do you have any of your own friends, or did you are you just kind of a loner? Annabelle laughs. You’re kind of at a loss for words. You sit mouth slightly agape when Felix turns to Farleigh. “What the hell kind of question is that Farleigh? You know you don’t have to be so rude all the time.” Farleigh takes another drag and shrugs. “Just curious.” Felix looks at you and says “You don't have to answer that y/n.” “No, it’s okay. Honestly I was just going to go to the dining hall and go back to my room. And short answer no, not here, they’re all back in the states.” You say dryly. “Fair enough.”

Not too long after that Felix checks the time and suggests for the night to end. You all walk back towards the dorms. Everyone but you tipsy and slightly stumbling. You wonder to yourself if this what college is all about, going to the pub every night, hanging out with people who obviously don’t like you. They all trail off to their building, but Felix stays behind. He looks at you with a sly smile. He obviously a bit messed up. “Sooo.. How was your firstdayy.? He says slurring his words. “Everything you thought it would be and more? He smiles and softly pushes your shoulder. His eyes looking at your face now, admiring your features. “Yeah, I mean.. I really appreciate you trying include me in your little group or whatever you like to call it. But I don’t think your friends like me.” He frowns. “Fucking Farleigh. He's just an asshole, don’t pay him any attention.” He says rolling his eyes. “Are you sure?” you ask, looking at a street lamp. “Yeah, yeah.. I mean that’s not something you need to worry about. I like you, so they’ll have to get over it either way.” His words make your heart flutter. He notices your change in demeanor and he smiles. “Well thank you again. I’ll see you around, Felix.” you wave and turn towards the door. “Goodnight, y/n.” You can hear his smile in his voice. He watches you enter the building and looks at you until he can’t anymore. You kick off your shoes and sit on the edge of your bed. His words replaying in your mind. “I like you..” You fall back onto the rest of the bed. “Fucking Felix Catton.” You laugh to yourself and rub your eyes. You liked him too, but who didn’t? What made you special to him? Nothing you thought, but maybe he would prove you wrong.

[ohtobealady]

October Prompts

3 October: Time

Sybbie glanced again at the fob watch that dangled from her pin, and she sat up straighter. 

Granny had said she’d be here at noon, exactly. “For luncheon,” she’d said in her posh little way, though Sybbie -- only fifty years or so separating the two women -- had told the other nurses thirty minutes before that she was “stepping out for a quick lunch.”

“With Countess Granny?” they’d teased, but it was all in good fun. They’d been surprised, that was all. And the older Sybbie grew, she'd begun to understand it.

She shifted in her seat again. She looked around the dining room. She picked at the hangnail bothering her ring finger. And then, again, Sybbie glanced at her watch. It was nearing a quarter-after, now. She’d have to be back at the hospital before they’d be able to place their order. And truth be told, she was starting to feel a little self-conscious sitting here, in the Ritz dining room, wearing her nursing uniform. There may be a war on, but it didn’t yet prevent the table cloth that she now wriggled with her bouncing knee from being whiter and crisper than her apron. 

“Excuse me, Miss?” 

She drew in a breath, in surprise, and glanced at the waiter now standing at her side. 

“Would you care for a drink while you wait? Perhaps you know what your companion would like as well?”

“Oh,” she pushed her hands into her wrinkled lap. “I believe a glass of water, for now. For me. And then a glass of Sauvignon Blanc for Lady Grantham? Who will be joining me very soon.”

That had done the trick. The waiter smiled, bobbed his brows and nodded. “Very good, madam.”

Sybbie smirked. Miss to Madam in the matter of a minute. What a snob, she thought, and sighed. Now all Sybbie had to do was wait for Granny. 

Again, she glanced at her pendant watch, the seconds ticking by; but then, out of no where, “Oh, darling. We are so sorry.”

Sybbie glanced up and found, to her relief, her tall, slender grandmother. And she looked every inch the countess she'd promised the waiter she'd be: her cream colored silk shirt, her tailored tea-colored coat, the pearl earrings dangling at her throat. She smiled. Yes, the countess, but still very much just … Granny. Her granny.

But then, “Wait, ‘we’, Granny?”

“Yes,” she sighed as she sat, rolling her eyes. The host behind her pushed in her chair. “I did try to dissuade him, but he was so determined.”

Oh. Donk.

She couldn’t help the smile that spread at seeing his flustered entrance, his quick thanks to the host for bringing another chair, the nods to people Sybbie supposed he might know, all the while Granny looking up at him with her crooked smirk. 

“How does anyone get anywhere with the absurd number of cars?” Donk grumbled, nodding again as a different waiter placed a menu and serviette before him. “Doesn’t anyone walk anymore?”

Across the table, Sybbie caught her granny's eye and laughed as they grew larger and then rolled, again, but more dramatically.

“Well, yes,” Sybbie answered. She took her napkin and placed it in her lap. “I did, in fact. And I still managed to get here on time.”

“Ah, I’m not suggesting that I’m late, of course.”

Sybbie heard as Granny grunted a small chuckle under her breath, and she watched her grandfather also take his serviette and sniff as he draped it into his lap.

“I see,” she volleyed. “Is that perhaps because you don’t believe lunch should ever be as early as noon or,” Sybbie lifted her chin, “is it because you cannot possibly be late to something you were never invited to in the first place?” 

“What do you mean I wasn't invited?”

Sybbie tipped her head. “This was meant to be a girls’ lunch, Donk. Just for Granny and me.”

“Oh, well that’s impossible.” Donk lifted his chin back at her. “We come as a pair, you know, your grandmother and I.”

This time it was Sybbie who rolled her eyes, but her chest felt warmer all the same.

“I know,” she admitted, glancing between her chuckling Donk and her glowing Granny who, laughing, shook her head. “And let no man put asunder.”

[synnthamonsugar]

in the spirit of saturnalia, WOE WRITING ERIS/DRIFTER BE UPON THEE

Dastardly ... you understand the assignment. Anyway I had a lot of fun figuring out how to commit my "ideal" Eris/Drifter dynamic to paper. (And maybe getting closer to answering such questions as "how DO you write FWB when the B doesn't come into play presently?") Want me to write/draw something outside my usual body of work? Inquire here.

Drifter attempts to find purchase in Sanctuary's cramped and impossibly cluttered galley, stacking ration crates, jugs of water, empty trays and a partially-disassembled hand-cannon into a precarious heap until he has enough space on the scuffed steel counter. A few feet away, his coat lay draped across one of the chairs surrounding the small metal dining-table.

"Have you forgotten our agreement?" Eris asks, emerging from the hallway, straightening out her veil. Unarmored and unbooted, she's nearly impossible to hear approaching, impressive and unnerving in equal measure. 

"I'm not stickin' around," he defends, rummaging through the mostly-bare cabinets, turning up a dusty packet of noodles, some freeze dried veggies, seasonings and sauces, a bit of oil, a can of meat? . . . it's not clear if they were brought by Eris or some scout who'd holed up here previously, but nothing's broken or bloated, so it's decent enough to work with. Ferreting out some clean pans among the mess, he lights the stove and sets to work. "Just that neither of us ate. I'd feel bad leaving without fixin' that."

"The sentiment is appreciated, but I can feed myself."

"Well … I can't. Not at my place at least. The Derelict's cleared out and I'm not rifling through the Annex this time of night. Don't need Hawthorne asking questions … worse, Ada. She talks." Eris gives him a cross look. "Look, I'll replace your food when the next shipment of supplies comes. With interest."

"Take your time. I favor the ration packs anyway."

"I noticed," he gestures at the empty retort pouches. 

Eris leans against his back and peers over his shoulder, tip-toe, to get a better look at the stovetop. Noodles roil in a pot, while the mysterious meat-product sizzles in the pan, sliced thin enough to crisp. She's not particularly gregarious when it comes to physical contact, not beyond what's necessary, so the small gesture feels outsized. "Smells good."

"Don't take a whole lot," he remarks, stirring in the dried vegetables. They watch in slack fascination as they rehydrate from hard chips of foodstuff to something resembling diced mushroom, cabbage, scallion. "First thing you learn out there — it's all in the preparation, not the ingredients."

"I think the ingredients are important," Eris replies, letting go to fetch a pair of chipped bowls, some tumblers and mismatched cutlery from the shelf. Clears out enough room for two at the table.

"Maybe for hive rituals. This is cooking, Moondust." 

The noodles are better than expected, aided perhaps by their own hunger. As they eat, they talk idly about plans for the next day. Drifter, overseeing gambit matches at the newly-reinstated arena on the outskirts of the Dreaming City. (Eris is more interested in the details of Awoken zoning bureaucracy than he has the patience to explain.) She is cagey about her own, not saying much more than it involves meeting with Ikora and Queen Mara. Knowing he's unlikely to like the answer, he doesn't press further. 

When they at last finish, Drifter slips on his coat and meets Eris' cheek in a brief kiss that she returns. Bidding each other goodnight, they go their separate ways, tired and sated.

[e-dubbc11]

A Forever Promise Pt. 2

Photos are not mine. They are courtesy of Pinterest/Google

Pairing: Billy Russo x F! Reader

Warnings: Just like in real life, Ginger drops a few F-bombs, fluffy bunnies and unicorns, this is just a fun time, couple other swear words.

Word Count: 5.8k-ish

Summary: Part 2 of 2. Read part one HERE After a short trip to Albany for your Jack and Jill party, it’s time for Billy and the reader to finally get married!

A/N: There’s some music in this one that I’ll link at the end, I don’t want to give away Ginger’s “surprise.” I had a bit of a time trying to figure out what to put in, what to leave out (we’ve all been to a wedding, we know what goes on) but I really like how this came out, I hope you do too!

As always, thank you for reading!  I appreciate it so much and comments, reblogs are welcome and encouraged. Don’t be shy to tell me your favorite part. 💕💕 💕

Thankfully, since it didn’t take too long to find Billy, the three of you got back in plenty of time to get ready for the wedding. Billy let you and the girls have the apartment to yourselves to get ready at while he, Frank, and the other groomsmen hung out at Frank’s house for awhile.

The hair stylists and makeup artists had already started working on the girls when you came home so you changed into your “Bride” dressing robe and joined them.

Your breakfast order had been delivered, the dining room table was filled with fresh fruit, croissants, different flavored mimosas, and mini quiches. After the morning you had, it felt good to eat and relax with your friends while getting ready.

“Everything’s ok? We don’t have a runaway groom situation, do we? I’ll tackle his ass and drag him to the venue if you need me to.” Lily joked.

The rest of you started to laugh.

“You don’t have to do that, even though the visual is hilarious. Everything’s ok.” You said shyly.

Maria reached out to touch your hand. “Y/n, Frank and I have known Billy a long time and we’ve never seen him this happy, he loves you so much. You two are going to be so happy together. Besides, Frank already told Billy that he can’t sleep on our couch if he messes up.”

She squeezed your hand, Lily and Ginger put their hands on top of Maria’s and everyone started to chuckle.

Ginger broke the silence. “Alright, let’s finish getting beautiful so we can go check out the venue. I’m dyin’ to see what they’ve done inside!” She said excitedly.

The wedding venue you and Billy ended up choosing was a place called The Green Building in Brooklyn. It was obvious why it was called the Green Building and looking at the outside it wasn’t very impressive but the inside was exactly what you wanted.

It was small, with high ceilings and chandeliers—a beautiful combination of elegant and rustic, complete with strings of white fairy lights, brick walls, and greenery hung from the ceiling.

As soon as you stepped inside the building, you were in love with it. Billy never took his eyes off of you as your gaze wandered around the room and up the walls, a smile stretched across your face from ear to ear.

Your eyes stopping on the chandeliers that hung from the very high ceilings and windows that went from the floor to the top of the wall and were covered in simple but sophisticated curtains. It was stunning yet cozy.

Before you could even open your mouth, Billy had told the wedding planner “We’ll take it.” And as the two of you stood there in the middle of that room, holding onto each other, Billy kissed the top of your head and asked you “You like it, sweet girl?” You pulled away to snake your hands around his neck and pulled him in for a gentle kiss. “I love it, Billy. And I love you, thank you.”

He just smiled his perfect smile and softly touched his lips to yours. “I love you too, beautiful.”

Ginger was the first one through the door, her garment bag held high above her head with her eyes roaming around the room. She quickly found a chair to drape her bag over and could not stop staring.

You had asked for extra fairy lights and ivy to decorate the ceiling and walls all around the room, two groups of dark colored chairs were set up on either side of a makeshift aisle, facing a window where you and Billy will exchange your wedding vows, half of the tables were set up on the other side of the room and the other half would be set up as soon as the ceremony was over.

“Holy shit! Look at this place!” Ginger shouted. “It’s gorgeous! And am I the last one to know about you having a cannoli truck outside?!”

“I swear I thought I told you about that.” You said with a slight chuckle. “Billy wanted it and I wasn’t gonna say no when he asked.”

You felt your phone vibrating in your purse. Pulling it out, you looked at the screen to see Billy’s handsome face smiling at you. Was it bad luck to talk to the groom before the wedding? You didn’t think that was the superstition so you quickly answered the phone.

“Well hello there, handsome.” You said with a slight smile on your face.

“Hello my love. Are you at the venue yet?” He asked.

Ginger took your garment bag from your other hand and headed upstairs.

“Yeah, we just got here a few minutes ago. Billy, wait ‘til you see it, it’s…so beautiful.” You said, looking around the room, taken aback by how beautiful it really was.

“I don’t doubt that it is, y/n. We’ll be there soon, I just wanted to make sure you were out of sight so I don’t see you before the wedding.” Billy said, almost at a whisper.

“We already saw each other this morning, Billy.” You joked.

You could feel him smiling on the other end of the phone.

“Yeah but that didn’t count.” He told you.

His response made you smile.

“Ok, well let me head upstairs so you don’t see me before it’s time. I’ll see you soon, my love.”

He stopped you from hanging up.

“Wait, y/n?” He said, his voice cracking a bit.

You put the phone back to your ear.

“Yes Billy?” You questioned.

There was a moment of silence waiting for him to speak again.

“Thank you.” He said.

Confused, you asked him. “For what, baby?”

This was one of those times Billy had a hard time getting his words out, he knew what he wanted to say, but it was just difficult for him to get it all out.

“Just…for…” He went silent again for a minute. “Saying yes.”

His words, the tone of his voice, the smile that you could tell was stretched wide across his handsome face—they all made your heart soar, you felt complete. You’ve never known anyone like Billy, so strong, determined, and hardworking.

He was also the most stubborn and frustrating man you’ve ever met but no one has ever shown you more love than he has. You never questioned his love for you and knew he would love and protect you until the day he died. No one else had his heart.

“I love you, Billy.” You said with a hitch in your voice.

“I love you too, baby.” He replied and you both hung up.

**********

While you were upstairs putting the finishing touches on your makeup and hair, Billy and the other groomsmen walked into the venue, the sun was starting to go down and the room was becoming dimmer by the minute.

He took notice of the framed chalkboard resting on a wooden easel, dark red roses decorated the top of the frame. Billy chuckled to himself as he read what was written on the chalkboard “To Have and To Hold...In Case You Get Cold.”

Underneath the chalkboard were baskets of rolled up fleece blankets. The owner of the Green Building did say it could get chilly inside so if guests wanted to take a blanket for the ceremony, they were more than welcome to.

He stared at the fairy lights glowing in the soft light of the main room, and you were right. It did look really beautiful in here. The vision you had for the room had come to life and that really made him happy.

He remembered the night of your birthday party, he remembered how hard you worked to put everything together, from the centerpieces, to the food, and the desserts and you had done the same thing leading up to tonight. Billy helped a little but he wanted it to be your vision, your day, and he couldn’t wait to say “I do.”

Simple bouquets of black Baccara roses and black calla lilies decorated the center of each table, they matched your bouquet while the bridesmaid’s bouquets were a combination of black Baccara roses and mauve roses.

As it started to get closer and closer to 5 o’clock, you felt more nervous and wondered if Billy felt the same way, everyone going in and out of the room making sure everything was in its place, Ginger talking about the “surprise” she has for you and Billy from the entire wedding party, it was almost a little too overwhelming for you and you needed a moment.

You needed…a cannoli.

So you slipped on your coat and made your way downstairs and outside without anyone noticing, Ginger would kill you if she knew you were going outside in your dress but you needed some fresh air.

The icy January air pricked your lungs as you took a deep breath but it just felt good to be outside where you didn’t feel like you were suffocating. You could hear the commotion of your wedding guests out front, making their way inside to take their seats. The ceremony was supposed to start in 15 minutes.

The cold air pierced your skin and goosebumps erupted everywhere but it felt amazing to be out there, alone, in the quiet, the stress of the past few months started to roll away with one deep breath. A smile played across your face after letting out a long exhale, it smelled like it was going to snow.

The owner of the cannoli truck asked what you were doing out there. You told him you just needed a minute…and a cannoli if he had one to spare.

“Anything for the bride.” He said with a warm smile.

As soon as you took a bite, you heard a soft velvet toned voice behind you.

“It smells like it’s gonna snow.” He said.

You knew that voice anywhere…Billy.

“Turn around, my love. Let me look at you.” He said.

Surprised that he actually wanted to see you, you started to say “But Billy…”

He interrupted you. “I think we’re past any superstitious bullshit, baby. Besides, you have your coat on, I won’t see the entire dress yet. Please? I have my coat on too so you don’t get to see my tie just yet.” He said. You could tell he was smiling as he said it which made you feel warm and content.

Even not being able to see his whole tuxedo, Billy looked incredibly handsome. He always did but there was something else behind those dark intense eyes of his, something different. It was something that looked like…relief. It was probably the happiest you’ve ever seen him and he couldn’t take his eyes off of you.

He was practically speechless. “Oh my god…look at…look at you.” He said. “You look…perfect.”

“Oh…this ol’ thing?” You pulled slightly on the side of your dress and did a half turn.

Billy moved closer to you, he wanted to touch you but it was almost like he was scared to, like he might break you or get your dress dirty so he grabbed your free hand instead. He gently pulled your hand up to meet his lips and he softly kissed the back of it.

“You look beautiful, my love. Now gimme a bite of that thing, that’s why I came out here too.” He said with a slight laugh.

You laughed a little also, the man always knew how to make you smile.

Billy took a bite of the cannoli and asked “I know this isn’t the only reason why you came out here though, sweet girl. Are you ok?”

You WERE ok, you just needed some fresh air and a minute to compose yourself. Your wedding was going to start in ten minutes so you knew it was just nerves.

“I’m just a little nervous, Billy. That’s all. It was hot inside and I needed some air.” You told him.

“Y/n, I know it’s not gonna be easy but I am so happy I finally met the person that I want to wake up next to every moring. I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you.” He said.

Tears stung the back of your eyes and you tried your best to not let them fall, you didn’t want to ruin your makeup before your wedding.

“I love you.” You said with a hitch in your voice.

He smiled a slightly wicked smile at you and said “I love you too, baby.”

Billy leaned in closer, as your lips were just about to touch his, a loud voice boomed from the doorway.

“FREEZE, RUSSO!!!”

It was Ginger.

“Put those lips away until the ceremony is over!” She roared.

Billy stopped, his lips were so close to yours that you were sharing the same breath but he pulled back and gave you a little wink.

Ginger walked toward the two of you, shaking her finger to scold the both of you for seeing each other before the ceremony.

“I’ve been lookin’ everywhere for you, y/n!! And you’ve been out here this entire time, eating a cannoli without me?!! And here I thought we were best friends.” She joked.

You couldn’t help but laugh a little. “Ginger, I just needed some fresh air, it was getting really hot inside and I wanted one, they’re really good.”

The last person you wanted to make mad was Ginger, even though it was all in good fun.

“Alright soldier, get inside. You were NOT supposed to see her yet! Also, your groomsmen have been looking for you too, you really are light on your feet, just slipped out without anyone noticing.” She scolded with her arms flailing.

Billy nodded again. “Yes ma’am.” He kissed your forehead and headed back inside, taking the rest of the cannoli with him before you could protest.

“And you!” Ginger pointed her finger at you. “Ceremony starts in five minutes, get inside! It’s fuckin’ freezing out here! Who the fuck gets married in January anyway?!”

You laughed again. “You’re not sweating though, are you?” You said sarcastically.

“Look who’s all full of jokes today. Let’s go get you married.” And she grabbed you by the arm, pulled you toward the door and almost dragged you back up the stairs to wait for the ceremony to begin.

Standing at the top of the stairs, you looked out to see family and friends sitting in their seats. They were smiling and talking with each other,

Billy and his groomsmen standing all in a row waiting, and Frank patting Billy on the shoulder. The smiles on their faces beamed from across the room as they waited patiently for you and your bridesmaids to walk down the aisle.

Traditional really wasn’t your style so you chose the song Clair de Lune for your bridesmaids to walk to. With the lights dimmed and the fairy lights glowing brightly, one by one they slowly made their way to stand across from their groomsmen counterparts before it was your turn.

Making sure your father didn’t jump the gun, you told him to hang back until that song stopped and yours began, you chose Best Part by Ben Barnes.

You're my coffee that I need in the morning

You're the sunshine in the rain when it's falling

Won't you give yourself to me?

Give it all

I just wanna see

I just wanna see how beautiful you are

You know I can see it

I know you're a star

Where you go I follow

No matter how far

If life is a movie then you're the best part

Mmh-mmh-mmh-mmh-mmh

You're the best part

Oh-oh-oh-oh

Best part

As soon as the song started, everyone stood and turned to watch you walk down the aisle. Every single pair of eyes focused on you but your eyes were directed at the man at the other end. Billy stared back at you, biting down on his lower lip, trying to contain his smile but failing miserably.

Your smile matched his as you continued to stare at him through the birdcage veil that lightly touched your face and tickled the tip of your nose. You blocked out all of the other surrounding noises, even the officiant’s voice when they asked “Who brings this woman to be married to this man?”

“I do.” Your father answered, kissed you on the cheek, shook Billy’s hand and gave you away to your future husband who took both of your hands in his, they were warm, and his callouses brushed against your slightly trembling fingers.

He swept small circles on the back of your hands with his thumbs to soothe you and gave you a little wink, silently telling you “It’s ok baby, I’ve got you.”

After welcoming everyone and saying a few words, the officiant turned it over to you and Billy to say your vows which you wrote for each other. You told Billy months ago that he didn’t have to, that the two of you could just repeat what the officiant says but he surprised you and told you he wanted to write his own. He always had a hard time expressing how he felt, that’s why it was such a shock to you that he wanted to do this, but maybe this was his way of working on that.

He went first.

“Y/n, my love. I never thought a birthday party would change my life for the better but it did. And I’ve never been so thankful that you chased me down the street to save me from my own stubbornness. Sharing my life with someone hadn’t even crossed my mind until I locked eyes with you. I can’t promise life with me will be perfect, actually I know it won’t be, but I will promise to always open all of the jars that are too tight, I will kill any spider that crosses your path, I will watch every Friends re-run with you because I love to hear you laugh, and I will love you with my whole heart for the rest of my life. My life is worth living because I have you, my sweet girl. I love you.”

You don’t know that you’ve ever been more proud of Billy than you were right at that moment. He had a hard enough time expressing how he felt to you, but for him to spill his heart out for everyone to hear made you weak in the knees, it made your heart swell, and your eyes welled up with tears. And you weren’t the only one who had tears in their eyes. A quick glance to the front row and your parents, your grandmother wiped away their tears. Behind you, Ginger and the other bridesmaids dabbed tissues under their eyes.

How were you supposed to follow that? Well, you were going to try.

“Billy, I questioned myself so many times about inviting my boss to my birthday party. If I’m being honest, at first I was hoping you wouldn’t come. I thought seeing you outside of work would make it very difficult to stay away from you, but I guess the universe had a plan. The truth is, no one gives me butterflies in my stomach the way you do, no one else gives me goosebumps when they just hold my hand, no one else’s texts make me smile from ear to ear even before reading them.”

Ginger interrupted. “Hey!”

Everyone chuckled.

“Yours do too, Ginger.” You said turning to look at her with a little laugh.

She nodded and replied with “Yeah I thought so, carry on.”

You continued.

“And Billy, I’ve never felt as loved as I do when I’m with you. So, I promise to always ask how your day was, to always have chocolate stashed somewhere in the house, and I will try my hardest to make you smile every single day because I love seeing your smile, my love.”

Billy could hardly contain his smile and you swear he was blushing.

After the exchange of rings, your officiant said. “William and y/n, you have expressed your love to one another through the commitment and promises you have just made. It is with these in mind that I pronounce you husband…and wife. You may kiss your bride!”

Billy’s long slender fingers gently reached for both sides of the short veil that touched the tops of your cheeks and moved it away from your face. He cupped your face, leaned forward and softly touched his lips to yours, being so careful not to mess up your makeup.

After months of planning and years of waiting for your perfect match, you were now Mrs. William Russo.

Now…it was time to party.

Ginger made her typical Ginger entrance when she and Frank were announced as Maid of Honor and Best Man. She danced her way through the crowd of people, dragging a grumpy faced Frank behind her like a rag doll. After everyone in the wedding party was announced, the DJ turned his attention to you and Billy.

"It is my great honor and privilege to introduce to you Mr. and Mrs. William Russo! Let's welcome them as newlyweds with a round of applause!"

Everyone stood up to give the two of you an ovation, whistles came from all directions, and all eyes were on you and Billy for your first dance as a married couple.

“The happy couple will now share their first dance as husband and wife.” The DJ said.

You chose Ballerina by Jeremy Shada for your first dance.

Blue-eyed ballerina

God only knows how much I need ya

From day one, I knew you were the one

Gimme your hand, and I'll give you mine

You're the reason I look forward to coming home at night

Billy pulled your body so it was flush with his, you grasped your hands around his neck as the song started to play, and he softly kissed your forehead, then kissed you on the lips.

“How does it feel to have a husband, sweet girl?” Billy asked.

You just smiled and kissed him back. “So far, so good handsome. How do you like having a wife?”

What's the point of sleep if it's not with you?

Your lipstick on my cheek looking like a tattoo

My ballerina, sway me side to side

All I need is a little love and care tonight

“I’ll let ya know tomorrow.” He joked.

“Billy Russo!” You playfully slapped his shoulder.

“I’m just teasin’, baby. So far, so good.” He said with a sly smile and a wink.

God is an artist

He put you on display

A masterpiece in motion, more beautiful every day

Gimme your love, and I'll give you mine

You're the reason I tell my friends I'm busy tonight

“You ready for the spin?” He asked.

You were all smiles. “Ready.”

In one quick motion, Billy spun you out, the bottom of your dress twirled as he spun you back towards him, followed by a dip and a kiss. It took you by surprise but it also made you smile, it was hard not to smile.

What's the point of sleep if it's not with you?

Your lipstick on my cheek looking like a tattoo

My ballerina, sway me side to side

All I need is a little love and care tonight

Oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh, ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh

Woah-ooh, oh-oh-oh, mmm-mmm-mmm

The world is your stage wherever you go

You know I'll always be right in the front row

Your love is a movie, my favorite show

You're my silver screen queen

My Marilyn Monroe

“You look so beautiful, my love. Your dress is amazing.” He said as he bit down on his lower lip, not taking his eyes off of you.

Now that you were a little more relaxed, you took a closer look at Billy’s tie, it was black with tiny white polka dots and skulls on it.

“Thank you, baby and I love your tie. You look so handsome.” You said.

What's the point of sleep if it's not with you?

Your lipstick on my cheek looking like a tattoo

My ballerina, sway me side to side

All I need is a little love and care tonight

Blue-eyed ballerina

God only knows how much I need ya

From day one, I knew you were the one

“Well…I picked it out just for you. I thought you’d like it.” He said.

Your fingers danced across the tie, the raised embroidered skulls were the perfect addition to his suit. “I love it, baby.” You said.

As the song came to an end, Billy drew your hand up to meet his lips and kissed the top of your hand, causing warmth to rise to your cheeks and a flutter in your stomach like it was the first time he’s ever put his lips on you. Staring at his handsome face, he looked at you like you hung the stars in the sky and he pulled you into a tight embrace like he never wanted to let you go.

Suddenly, the wedding party and the Castle children walked out on to the dance floor. Maria pulled Frank by his suit jacket, he had a terrified look on his face like he couldn’t believe what he was about to do and looked at Ginger with complete disdain for making him do it.

Ginger took the DJ’s microphone right out of his hand.

“Billy…y/n…this is our gift to you, but it’s mostly from me because it was my idea…Ok, hit it!”

Two chairs appeared out of nowhere behind you so the two of you could sit down and watch.

You turned to Billy. “What’s going on?”

“I dunno but Frankie looks like he’s gonna die of embarrassment.” Billy chuckled.

Then the song started to play and a wide smile stretched across both of your faces.

Everybody, yeah

Rock your body, yeah

Everybody, yeah

Rock your body right

Backstreet's back, alright

You covered your open mouth with your hands and Billy closed his eyes and shook his head. You both were in disbelief as to what was happening in front of you, your entire wedding party dancing in unison to the Backstreet Boys.

“So this is what Frankie meant by he has to ‘practice’ for the wedding!” Billy exclaimed, leaning into your ear.

Am I original?

Yeah

Am I the only one?

Yeah

Am I sexual?

Yeah

Am I everything you need?

You better rock your body now

Everybody

Yeah

Rock your body

Yeah

Everybody

Rock your body right

Backstreet's back, alright

Alright

The reception had barely begun and you were already having the time of your life, laughing and dancing in your chair.

So everybody everywhere

Don't be afraid, don't have no fear

I'm gonna tell the world

Make you understand

As long as there'll be music

We'll be comin' back, again

You couldn’t sit still any longer, you stood up and asked Billy to attach the train of your dress to the buttons on your backside so you wouldn’t trip on it. Kicking off your shoes, you ran out onto the dance floor to join them for the last chorus. You could do this dance in your sleep.

Everybody

Yeah

Rock your body

Yeah

Everybody

Rock your body right (rock your body right)

Backstreet's back

Everybody (rock your body)

Yeah (rock your body)

Rock your body (rock your body)

Yeah (everybody rock your body)

Everybody (rock your body)

Rock your body right (rock your body, everybody)

Backstreet's back, alright

You and Billy exchanged hugs and laughs with everyone in the wedding party after the song ended. Ginger DID say she had a surprise, and part of that surprise apparently involved embarrassing Frank but he took it like a champ and actually looked like he was having a good time doing it too.

“Thank you, Frank…I know Ginger can be a bit much at times.” You said.

Frank had a smirk on his face. “Anything for you, sweetheart. That’s actually how Ginger got me to agree to do this…she wore me down, more like bullied me. She said that because you made my best friend the happiest I’ve ever seen him, I owed it to you. Even if it meant me dancing like a puppet out here.”

Billy slid in next to you to give Frank a hug. “You look good out there, Frankie. Ya ever think about switching your career path? I’ll write your resignation letter right now, if you want.”

Frank playfully punched Billy in the arm as Lisa and Frank Jr. ran up to hug their father.

You narrowed your eyes teasingly at the kids.

“The two of you knew about this too, huh?” You asked.

Lisa had a big smile on her face when she asked. “Were you surprised, Auntie?”

She called you “auntie.” The sound of that made your heart burst.

“Yeah, were you surprised?!!” Junior asked.

You pulled the kids in for a hug. “I was VERY surprised and you two did such a great job! Thank you!”

“How did we do, Uncle Billy?” Lisa asked.

“Better than your dad, that’s for sure!” He said, trying to contain his laughter.

The kids gave their uncle a hug and took off running. They looked like they were heading for the appetizer tables.

Billy looked down at you and smiled. “They love you.”

“Well I’m glad they do because I love them. Come on, handsome. I think the kids have the right idea, let’s get something to eat. I’m starving.” You said.

Dinner, speeches, and cake…all kind of ran together in a blur. Ginger bet Frank that her maid of honor speech would get a better reaction than his best man speech. She was right although Frank said she cheated because she was funny AND pulled at people’s heartstrings which made everyone tear up. He ended up owing her twenty bucks.

After walking around and saying hello to all of your guests, it was time to dance. Everyone seemed like they were having such a good time enjoying the music and the dessert truck outside. Seeing everyone’s smiling faces meant that all the planning and hard work that had consumed you for the past year had paid off. It was all completely worth it. There was only one thing that could make this wedding even more perfect.

Billy approached you while you were talking to some friends.

“Come with me, sweet girl.” He said and he held out his hand for you to take it.

Confused, you put your hand in his and asked. “Where are we going, Billy?”

“Just outside, I wanna show you something.” He said with a smirk.

He led you toward the door that led to the alley where the cannoli truck was parked.

“Baby, I can’t eat another cannoli, I am so—“ You stopped mid-sentence and gasped at the sight in front of you. Through the dimly lit string lights, little white flakes fluttered to the ground all around you. Your wish had come true…it was snowing.

“I told you it smelled like snow.” He said as he pulled you close against his chest and gave you a quick kiss.

“Yeah, well I did teach you that trick, my love. I can’t believe it’s snowing! Our wedding day is perfect.” You said, clasping your hands around his neck and pulling him in for another kiss.

Ginger walked out into the snow.

“Ya know, I come out here for dessert and this is what I find? The two of you being disgustingly adorable and SNOW?!!! Seriously y/n, who gets married in January?!!” She exclaimed.

As the night came to a close, Billy held you close, your head resting against his chest, swaying back and forth to the last song of the evening while everyone else smiled and watched. It felt like you were the only two people left in world, your wedding day was almost over but you would have the rest of your lives to look back and reminisce about today.

Although it didn’t start out that way, your day ended up being perfect and you couldn’t have done it without the help of your family and friends. Thinking about everything they did for you leading up to today, really showed how much they love you and they’ve waited so long for you to be this happy.

Even after the song ended, the two of you just held each other and moved to the imaginary music, all of the extra noise around you was muted, and you didn’t hear anything except the beating of Billy’s heart synched with your own. His light touches up and down your back were so soothing and comforting. You felt safe and you knew, as long as you were in his arms, you always would be.

Out of the corner of your eye, you noticed Frank and Ginger on the edge of the dance floor watching you and Billy dance.

She put her arm around Frank and said “Well buddy, we did it. Our babies are all grown up and married now. What if they don’t need us anymore?!!” She wiped away fake tears.

Frank couldn’t help but grin. “We did good, kid. Look at how happy they are.”

A devilish grin stretched across Ginger’s face.

“Soooooo, Billy hired a private plane to take them on their honeymoon, right?” She asked.

Frank looked at her somewhat confused. “Yeah? Why?” He asked.

“And they’re leaving at what time tomorrow?” Asked Ginger.

Frank furrowed his brow. “09:00. What are you getting at, Ginger?”

Ginger slowly turned to face Frank, still with that wicked smile on her face. “Wanna crash their honeymoon?”

“Ginger, that’s their private time. That’s time they’re supposed to spend together, just the two of them!” He paused and he smiled a devilish smirk of his own. “But I could really use a vacation.”

“You don’t hate the idea though, do ya.” She nudged Frank’s arm. “Huh? We would all have SO much fun, don’t ya think?”

“Alright, be outside their apartment at 07:00, that’s when Bill says they’re leaving for the airport. He can’t say no to the kids when they make their puppy faces.” Frank firmly said, pointing his finger at her.

“YES!!!” Ginger said excitedly and sealed their deal with a fist bump.

With Frank and Ginger staring at you with evil grins on their faces, you pointed at them and said to Billy. “I don’t know that I like the looks of all that.”

“Yeah…I don’t know that I do either.” Billy said, narrowing his eyes and shaking his head.

So you asked them. “What are you two smiling about?”

With another fist bump, they both answered in unison and shook their heads.

“Nothin’.”

Tag List: @mindidjarin @saintmurd0ck @wheresthesunshinesblog @rafaelakelley @idaoftheburningmind @snowkestrel @xdervyxccgh @mattmurdocksscars @fakehappy27 @music-indie-tv @fictional-hooman @kayhi808 @munsonownsmyass @gijos @celestialams @idek-what-to-put @anastasianeedstoread @ratsys @k-marzolf @nutmeg17 @rosaleenablack

Others that might enjoy: @itwasthereaminuteago @fluffyprettykitty @jvanilly @simple-lovebot @russosafehaven @mrsbillyrusso

If you’d like to be added to (or removed from) my tag list for the ever so handsome Billy Russo, just let me know and thank you again for reading! 💕💕💕 If I tagged you but didn’t want to be, just let me know and I’ll never do it again

[nancywheelersgirlfriend]

didn't wanna have to do it (ronance)

a/n: short ronance blurb bc i love my girls + will lose sleep for orientation tomorrow over writing them

(1,502 words)

Somewhere along the way, Nancy stopped being Nancy Wheeler and became something in between. Now she and Robin were sprawled, connected by bare prickly legs and sticky summer arms, across her unmade bed. Robin snored into her hair. Sinus issues from the Upside-Down. Nancy drooled on her left arm. They slept together in every sense of the phrase. 

Her mom had stopped trying. At first, when it was going on two days of Robin now existing in permanent company with the Wheelers, Karen had dropped some unsutble hints about booting her out. But now they were two weeks out from the spring break from Hell and Robin was still here. She’d always be here, draped over Nancy. Protecting her even in sleep, starfish style. 

Nancy woke up first. She’d let herself lie there for a peaceful moment, appreciating the red tints on Robin’s cheeks from how overheated her bedroom got. Their hair mixed together on the singular pillow. Nancy lifted a hand to hold onto Robin’s calf. Long, pale, and unshaved. The little dark hairs underneath her fingertips felt like carpeting. She pressed her nose to Robin’s neck and took a deep breath in.

At the kitchen counter, they’d formulated a routine. Ted at the head of the dining room table, coffee in one hand and newspaper in the other. Holly across from him or, when she was feeling up to it, at the counter with Robin and Nancy. Nancy would grab the bowls, Robin poured the milk as Nancy poured the cereal in the other. They dunked each others’ spoons in their respective bowls. Robin liked water with ice in the morning. Nancy liked room temperature. 

Mike often wedged his way in between them, half of the time a furious whirl of conversation and the other a ghost of a person. When he was a ghost, Robin poured him cereal. When he was up for living, he’d pour his own - ripping the box from her hand and spilling out marshmallows all over the kitchen in the process.

When it was nice enough outside, a rare occurrence with the apocalypse and all, they’d sit out on the back patio and share bites of soggy Lucky Charms. Robin fed Nancy bites of hers. Nancy let her steal when she was pretending not to look. Which was a complete lie, because Nancy was always looking at Robin. She and the way the morning sun reflected off her face, as if she was as dew-coated as the grass and the shrubs. Robin the garden. Robin the flower. Nancy reached over and tucked a stray hair behind Robin’s ear. It felt like water between her fingers.

What she liked particularly about Robin’s hair was its innate ability to bounce back from any and all obstacles - a bad hair day was unheard of. Especially then, with her bangs grown out far too long to keep clung to her eyelashes, Robin’d tuck strands behind the backs of her ears. It gave her this sense of forlorn curtains on her cheeks, sticky with summer sweat and baby hairs clinging to her forehead - the gaps in the hair where the bangs used to be. It made her face look as if it were a stage newly opened to the public, the show about to start. Nancy took a front row seat.

When the bangs got far too long for Nancy to tolerate and Robin to properly tuck, she easily convinced Robin to get it cut. But the barber had been eaten by a demogorgon, so Nancy had to learn to work a pair of cutting scissors instead. She pushed the chair from her bedroom desk into her bathroom, blushing over the pink walls and little girl makeup kits in the drawers as if Robin hadn’t been practically living in her house for the past two months. Robin sat dutifully on the wooden chair. It was clearly a struggle to sit so still, but Nancy’s hands in her hair had her fairly pacified. She leaned her head back to offer more access, some blissful smile spreading across her face as Nancy chopped unprofessionally at stray hairs and guessed at length.

Then the cutting was over and washing began. Robin bent herself over the half-shower, half-bath to allow Nancy more access. Her knees hit the tile without much ceremony, eyes closed and turned up to Nancy like a sunflower as she ran her hands through the locks over and over again. The sight was almost religious. Nancy couldn’t take it - she had to duck Robin’s head underneath the faucet just to survive. Baptism.

And now her hair didn’t look half-bad. Nancy’s poor attempts at chopping it had all but returned her bangs to their natural state (sleeping on her forehead) but Robin didn’t seem to mind. In fact she hardly recongized she had hair anyway. Nancy stopped worrying about curlers and perms. Her hair grew stringy and straight, the way it had been when Barb was there to brush it out.

Robin liked her hair nonetheless. When they got the chance in between chasing breaths of tumultuous air, Robin would comb out Nancy’s wet hair and press kisses to her neck. All the way down her exposed spine, the way her pale skin curved around her back. The little birthmark on her left side. Robin loved it all. Nancy loved the way Robin’s hands, slightly larger than hers and knobbier at the knuckles, felt pressed into her skin. When they softly tugged at the skin on Nancy’s neck, dancing along the spare freckles  When Robin’s fingers skated down her bare arms, laughing lowly into Nancy’s ear as she felt up the goosebumps she caused.

Later, hair mussed up and spread out onto pillowcases above them, Nancy tried her best to fold her body completely into Robin’s. Sometimes it felt like it was about to work - her legs to her legs, her arms clasped against Robin’s chest, Nancy’s face pressed to her collarbone. But they never got nearly close enough. It was never enough. Not for lack of effort - their fingers pulled and left marks in respective skin. There was something they couldn’t bypass. But they could get close enough. 

On days where going outside was unfathomable, Nancy and Robin curled up in her bed and read to each other. Robin was especially good at doing voices for comic books they snatched from Mike’s bed (who spent most of his days at the Byers’ new house on Apple Avenue, anyway), but she didn’t have the attention span for the thick classics Nancy preferred. So Nancy read those aloud instead, and textbooks too - prepping them for college days that might never come. Learning with each other to ignore the oncoming assault outside.

When they were in the thick of it, covered in blood and sweat and faces slick with tears, Robin had found Nancy. In between family and ex-boyfriends and brothers Robin pulled her close and tried to fold them together. Nancy let her. She looked up at her with galaxies in her eyes. It was like touching a cloud. They came really, really close. The ground shook and Robin lifted up a jacket-covered arm to protect herself and Nancy, cowering underneath the shield and sticking together. Nancy’s sweaty, frantic kiss landed more on the side of Robin’s mouth rather than her actual lips. It was heaven on Earth.

And when it was finally over and Hawkins was allowed to take a breath, Robin interlocked her fingers with Nancy and stepped away from the gates of Hell. In the hospital, patched up for minor injuries and bouncing their knees in worry for the others with more life-threatening conditions, their fingers stayed interlocked. Nancy Wheeler’s bony, pale hand. Robin Buckley’s tanner, longer fingers. They mushed together in the middle. It felt almost inhumane to spilt at this point.

Walking down what used to be Main Street, showered and not as sweaty but still completely devastated, Robin pulled Nancy into her side. And she said, whispered nearly inaudibly into the strands of Nancy’s ponytailed hair:

“I’m glad it was you.” Nancy looked up from where she’d pressed her face square to Robin’s chest with a soft, innocent smile on her face. She was twenty and she felt sixteen. Time reversed in Robin’s arms and for a moment, waiting for the crosswalk light to change even though there was no chance of a car going down the street, they were kids. Idiots. Unaware. She wrapped an arm around Robin’s waist in reply and squeezed.

“I’m glad it was me, too,” Nancy agreed. Robin couldn’t stand looking into those big, brown eyes anymore, so instead she laughed and pulled Nancy in closer. They walked home no longer two separate girls but one four-legged lovesick animal. Nancy was not Nancy and Robin was not Robin. They were just two people, tow women. Going nowhere and having nothing to do. It was the first breath of fresh air they’d both taken in years.

Sleeping in had never felt so good.

[imaginedreamwrite]

Tuesday Tunesday - I am convinced that once Lloyd has his pumpkin working from home is his favourite. He'll set up in the dining room or kitchen, despite having a perfect setup in his study, just to be close to her and listen to her playlist. The first few times she shut it off, not wanting to disturb him but he encourages her to put it back on. Now they have a playlist they made together for this very occasion and Lloyd loves to dance with pumpkin to the slower songs.

You’re in a world of your own, completely unaware that anyone’s joined you in the kitchen. Your chosen playlist is blaring through the portable speaker you’ve set up while you’re busy working on your paper. You’re concentrating, you’re focused and there’s almost no reason for you to focus on anything else in the world until a thud comes directly in front of your open laptop.

You feel yourself nearly jumping out of your skin and the startled curse that falls from your lips brings a rising laugh to Lloyd’s lips, his eyes crinkled at the edges.

“What the fuck is wrong with you?” You hiss and close your laptop, glaring at your husband and soulmate with as much degradation as you can.

“I was calling your name, Pumpkin-“

“Good for you. What are you doing?” You brushed him off before you watched him with narrowed eyes, noting the placement of his own laptop.

“The lights in the study are bothering me.” Lloyd sat across from you, resting one arm on the table while the other had been draped across the back of the chair. “Nice music.”

“And what do you listen? The sounds of death?” You snipped, standing and swiping your cup from the table, tucking it under your arm. “So you’re not using your study because the lights are bothering you?”

“Didn’t I just say that?” Lloyd glanced over his shoulder, raising an eyebrow in your direction.

“Big bad boss man can’t handle a set of lights?” You didn’t look at him, wouldn’t look at him while filling your cup.

You couldn’t think about him or the study, not since he had throughly fucked you against every single surface.

Every single surface possible had been stained with you.

“Keep mouthing off, Pumpkin. I’ll put it to good use.” Lloyd watched you, his eyes followed you as you joined him at the table again. “I think you’d like it.”

“I think you’d like to have you cock bitten off.” You dropped your gaze, regardless of your pissiness and felt lingering hunger within you.

“You’re full of fire, sweetheart. Just overcome with it, don’t you know its addicting?”

“So I’ve heard.” You snapped your head up and bit down on your bottom lip.

“I wanna take you out tomorrow. We’re going to a club, I think you’d like it.” Lloyd’s eyes flashed with need and want, his head tilted down every so slightly.

“Its not a sex club is it?”

“No one gets to see you like that.” He struck the table with his hand, possessiveness and obsessiveness hanging on every word. “If I hear anybody say anything about your fucking body-“

“You’ll kill them?” Once, only once had someone seen you and Lloyd fucking each other, and he responded by ripping their eyes out.

“My soulmate, my wife, my Pumpkin…my eyes only.” Lloyd bit out his possession and you were flooded with warmth.

He was nothing if not a good husband.

“Come on,” you stopped working and stood, walking around the table toward him, your hands reaching for his, “stop being such a chest beater and let’s dance.”

“Dance?” Lloyd stood and pulled you to his chest, arms securing you to him.

“I like this song.” You slipped your arms around his neck, lips pressed to his. “We can practice for our official wedding.”

[azaarchiive]

Only The Elite; hinata shoyo

chapter one; birthday girl

notes; fem reader btw not sure if i specified that im so sorry. omg first chappy heheh so happy! if you haven’t read the prologue as it just adjusts you to the dynamics quite early on but if you really don’t then it’s ok! 1.9k words

PROLOGUE - NEXT

“hey birthday girl!” tooru warmly smiled as you opened the door, stretching his long arms out to hug you tightly.

“thanks baby, everyone’s already in the dining hall.” you sighed, a small smile on you face as you accepted the hug since it almost dissolved all your stress.

keyword’s almost.

birthdays in hiroo are a big thing, it was the biggest events of the year and it was an expectation that no matter when your birthday was, it would be a big fucking bang. it’s a competition, whoever had the most controversy during their birthday won that year. there would be award ceremonies at the end of the year and all.

last year, eita won as he managed to get a tiger loose in his house who bit hajime’s dad. there is still a little tension between them about it till this day.

so yeah, in short, you were stressed as fuck. your maid, precious, has seen this and aided you in organising, she truly was your favourite.

“alright, let’s go.” tooru held onto your hand and dragged your lethargic body to the dining room, which took forever considering your house is massive.

“awe look at y/n and her prince charming!” koutarou teased as he saw you two walking into the dining room.

“would i ever leave a damsel in distress?” tooru smiled as he pulled your body towards him, draping his arms around you lazily.

“erm excuse me? i could literally buy and sell your company.” you rolled your eyes jokingly, folding your arms.

“yeah, just keep quiet after that.” hajime chuckled, taking a gulp of his whisky.

“you need to stop drinking before you comment on anyone else!” tooru huffed childishly.

“fuck off tooru, you’re just mad that i could buy and sell your company also.” hajime gloated, leaning back in his chair as he was satisfied with tooru’s angered expression.

tooru stomped to his chair childishly, refusing to comment any further, this made everyone chuckle at tooru’s antics.

“moving on from this big baby, everyone has their clothes?”

“yes y/n.” everyone said all together annoyed as you had asked them this question at least 4 times already.

“you’re way to stressed, listen, all the maids are dealing with everything. all you need to focus on is making that pretty face and body even prettier. have you even tried on your dress?” suguru smirked sultrily, shamelessly dragging his eyes across your whole frame.

“ugh, you’re disgusting but you have a point. i’m just nervous about the guest list specifically.” you admitted, taking a chair and sitting down at the table as you sighed.

“why, who did you invite?” kiyoomi asked.

“everyone in hiroo and their parents, problem is, all the parents are pissed at mine for the recent business investment we did.” you groaned.

“what the hell did you guys do now?” kiyoomi questioned once more.

“we announced that we are planning to buy some shitty public school- karasuno, i think it’s called? anyways, long story short, we are buying the school and surrounding area to make it less poverty stricken.” you explained.

“so… gentrification?” koutarou commented.

“i guess, but to be fair that area is ugly anyways, like if i was poor, id be happy people are kicking us out. at least id have an excuse to finally get up and make some fucking money.” you shrugged.

“you’re so unserious.” eita replied, laughing his ass off.

“no wait, i get what she’s saying. love the poor people or whatever but they do need an incentive to start working, you know?” suguru said, laughing along with everyone.

“you guys are mean, where are they supposed to go?” koutarou calmed down from his laughing fit.

“who cares? just get out of my area, ya know?” you smiled.

“anyways, not the point! point is, some parents are now like poverty-activists and are pissed at me.” you sighed for what seemed like the umpteenth time that’s day.

“don’t worry, it will pass over. speaking out against you gets them the most positive attention from the public, they’ll still come and won’t make any havoc.” wakatoshi advised.

wakatoshi talked every once in a blue moon but every time he did, it was like a million dollar movie line that solves all the main characters problems, the wisest man everyone has ever known is wakatoshi.

“i love you, thanks babe. you’re right, i just need to focus on getting ready and praying something controversial happens.” you stood up and dusted off your lounge outfit.

“not like you can beat me but have fun trying.” eita winked at me as he boasted.

“you’re a monster.” hajime stared directly at eita.

“oh my god, let it go! it has literally been a year.” eita rolled his eyes.

“yeah, because it’s not like my dad had to wear crutches for half of that year, you evil beast.” hajime spat out.

“i’m crying.” tooru wheezed out as he continued to cry laughing.

“so was my father when he was viciously attacked.” hajime muttered bitterly.

“yet he was still able to take away free lunches from kindergarten classes? maybe the tiger should’ve went a little harder.” eita stuck his tongue before quickly making a run for it.

“fuck you and your mothers foundation!” hajime yelled out before chasing after eita down the hallway.

“i’m friends with children.” you face palmed while the rest of the table were bursting with laughter.

meanwhile, back in karasuno’s gym, the remaining members of the volleyball team were sat in silence. looking down at the ground and staring off into space while confused with how the future was going to play out for them.

they should be bursting with excitement, they were going to the finals! they were going to compete with top private schools and some even had opportunities to go pro, however all those dreams may be cut short after their recent revelations.

“so, what the hell are we going to do?” yuu disrupted the silence, asking the question that plagued their mind ever since finding out about karasuno being a recent purchase.

“we might have to move to the countryside…” koushi suggested, blinking back his tears as he faced down to the ground.

“no.” shoyos voice was cracking, barely above a whisper.

“sorry?” tobio asked, carelessly letting his tears run down his face.

“i’m not fucking standing for this. what? we have to leave the only place we can afford to go, on student loans mind you, because some fucking pompous fucks want better scenery? taking the fucking piss.” shoyo raised his voice.

“well non of us fucking like it but what the hell do you want us to do? fucking ask them to stop? like they’ll listen to us.” kei responded.

there was a beat of silence before yuu spoke.

“i… i know this is so far fetched but, we have nothing to loose right?” he started, looking around the group to see all their tearful eyes staring at him.

“kei, you’re friends with tetsurō, right?” yuu asked, to which kei nodded his head.

“well, he knows koutarou- as in bokuto koutarou. he could potentially get us invited to y/n’s birthday this afternoon.” yuu suggested.

“is that really going to work? why would they invited some miyagi boys to the y/n l/n’s birthday party?” koushi rebuttaled.

“well, no time like the present to find out.” shoyo spoke up, staring at kei.

kei rolled his eyes before dialing tetsurō’s number and putting him on speaker.

“yo, kei! i never thought you would call me first, so you do love me!” tetsurō chuckled, his booming voice still echoing through the gym despite it being through the phone.

“don’t get it twisted, i just need something from you.” kei rolled his eyes.

“haha, of course! what’s up?”

“i need you to get my team and i invited to y/n’s party.” kei demanded.

“… kindest way possible-“

“i know, we’re dirt poor, but we aren’t there to enjoy ourselves. we need to talk to y/n ourselves.” kei still stood his ground, tetsurō could tell that kei was being dead serious about this and wouldn’t back down without a fight.

“this is about karasuno, right?” tetsurō asked, kei’s hum of affirmation confirmed it.

“i’ll see what i can do, sit tight and let daddy tetsu deal with it!” tetsurō said before ending the call.

“i guess we’ll see.” kei sighed, truthfully he felt quite hopeless. why would they be able to get invites to the party of the year? the media had eyes all over the estate, the party was already making headlines without it even starting.

five minutes go by and they truly have lost hope, until, tetsurō rings back.

kei answered the phone almost immediately.

“you guys are in! ok so the party starts at 5pm and lasts until 1am.” tetsurō cheered.

“how the hell-“

“listen, i don’t know how myself, just enjoy yourselves. but there is a catch.” tetsurō warned.

“of course, go on?” kei sighed, it was expected that there would be a catch.

“only four of you can come, there’s a very strict dress code and… you guys need to bring coke…” tetsurō notified.

“done, that’s not that bad, i didn’t think that they would want us to bring coke to a party though.” shoyo gleamed.

“i know, right? i’m bummed that only four of us can come though.” tobio replied.

“oh my god, you guys are idiots.” kei facepalmed, koushi and tetsurō bursting out laughing in the background.

“he’s talking about crack, the drug that people snort up?” sawamura, whose been silent up until now, lets out a breathy chuckled.

“oh… OH!” shoyo exclaimed as he realised now what everyone was talking about.

“how the hell are we supposed to get that?” tobio questioned, tilting his head slightly to the side in confusion.

“yeah you need around… 20 grams? ok bye gu-“

“no way, you will not be leaving until you have helped us.” kei commanded, tetsurō sighed in response.

“well… my sister knows some people…” ryūnosuke muttered, looking around at everyone.

“fuck, well, what about the dress code?” kei asked tetsurō through the phone.

“the theme is royalty, so you all need to dress like royalty or something of the sort.” tetsurō informs.

“oh my goodness, do you remember last halloween? we all dressed up as kings!” shoyo exclaimed.

“that probably won’t cut it though..” koushi thought, before whipping his head to azumane.

“azu’ you’re a fashion student right?” koushi smirked.

“i- i guess.” azumane meekly replied.

“you can, whip something together for your dear ol’ friends trying to help the school from crumbling, right?” koushi batted his eyelashes at him, flashing a bright smile at him.

“realistically, no, but i know that the department has to have something to do with a royalty theme so i can do some small tailoring to it, that should only take a few hours.” azumane explained.

“seems like you all have it covered, am i allowed to take my leave?” tetsurō sarcastically asked.

“yes.” kei rolled his eyes and slammed his finger on the red button, ending the call.

“i think… i think we are gonna crash the l/n’s.” yuu smiled.

“we are gonna save karasuno!” shoyo laughed, lazily draping his arms over tobio.

“yes we will.” tobio nodded determinedly, high-fiveing shoyo.

but they all knew deep down that it was not going to be this easy, however, they had to stay hopeful. especially for the events that laid ahead of them.

[protags-fic-blog]

Brothers Conflict - Tired of Waiting

Featuring art from @nicoruusplayland! Give them a follow!

Ukyo held the door open for her, offering his hand as she stepped out of the car.

She looked up at the tall building, excited for what may come. She remembered this restaurant fondly. This was where they went for their first date. The height of the building gave a nice view of Tokyo’s streets, but she knew her eyes would be on him.

Ukyo grabbed her hand, guiding her up to the elevator. She focused on the ground, careful not to trip over her own feet, and waited patiently as the elevator approached the upper floors.

“Good evening. We’re here for a reservation under Asahina,” Ukyo said, giving a small smile to the host. The host nodded, looked down at something hidden behind the desk, then nodded again. “Right this way,” he said, taking striding steps up the stairs.

Ukyo wrapped an arm around her waist, holding her steady as she slowly ascended the stairs. “This is different from where we sat last time, no?” she asked, trying to create idle chat.

He nodded as he helped her up the last stair. “I wanted somewhere a little more private. Somewhere no one would bother us.”

She stood, quietly taking in the luxurious dining room. There was a massive chandelier that must have weighed more than the both of them combined. It threw warm light across the walls, which only served to draw her attention to the sheen of the red velvet drapes that hung over the floor to ceiling windows.

She looked down, embarrassed that she was so shocked at the elegance, only to find that her dress was shimmering with each step she took. Maybe Fuuto was in on the date—picking out something like this would need some forethought.

Ukyo followed the host to the table, thanked him, and pulled out Ema’s chair. She flushed, giving him a mumbled ‘thank you’, before taking her seat. She watched Ukyo take his, then picked up the menu that was placed on the table. The amount of options was, like before, overwhelming. She didn’t even know what escargot was, and at this point was a little scared to ask.

“Shall we start with a drink?” he asked, looking at her from behind the menu. She frantically flipped to the page with the drinks, only to find it was painfully confusing.

Ukyo noticed, clearly, and smiled. “Don’t worry about it now. We should wait until we know what we’re eating first,” he said, slightly soothing her worries.

She smiled back, and turned back to looking through the entrees. Most of them sounded amazing, but she wasn’t exactly sure how much she was allowed to spend. After all, he had already paid for a lot so far. If she could just gauge the price, it would be much easier.

“What are you-” He cut her off with a small wave of the hand. “You don’t need to worry about the price. Order what sounds best to you.”

She made a small sound of shock, but tried to pretend she wasn’t surprised. It made sense that he would take her somewhere nice and be ready to spend. She was just overthinking things.

The waiter walked up to the table. She heard Ukyo ask for steak and lobster. The waiter looked at her, and she felt shy. “I think I’ll have the swordfish,” she said, handing the menu to the waiter.

There was a moment of silence after the waiter left. The tension was obvious. Each of them wanted to talk, but neither knew how to start. She turned away to stare out the large windows. They were so close to the sky, right between the stars and the city.

She turned away from the window, watching Ukyo, but she was embarrassed to find him watching her instead. “The view is really nice,” she started, scanning the restaurant for any sign of their waiter. “I’m glad you enjoy it. It is a nice view,” he said, but he didn’t so much as glance away from her.

“Ema?” She looked up at him, giving him her full attention. “I wanted to talk to you about something.”

She was silent for a moment. The waiter stopped by, a bright smile on his face as he refilled the drinks of water. “Any other drinks tonight?” he asked. Ukyo slightly frowned, then put on his professional face to talk to the waiter. “I think we’ll each have a glass of Pinot Noir, please.”

The waiter nodded. “Two glasses of Pinot Noir. Would you like that now, or served with your meal?” he asked. It was clear that Ukyo was a bit annoyed—perhaps he wanted to be left alone. “With the meal, thank you,” he said, ending the conversation.

He shook his head as the waiter left. “Oh, it’s alright. We’ll have plenty of alone time later tonight,” she said, giving him a small smile.

He nodded, but he let out a small sigh. “I would’ve picked a different restaurant if I knew the waiters here were just as annoying as our brothers,” he remarked.

“Not nearly as annoying. Remember when Wataru brought home that cat? The living room was covered in cat hair for months, even after we found its owner,” she laughed. “Oh, I wish I could forget. I’m still finding hair in my nice suits,” he said.

“They have their perks, I suppose. Fuuto helped pick this dress,” she started. She saw a hint of jealousy in his eyes, and was quick to backpedal. “Hey, I didn’t even know where we were going. Better to have someone in on it than spoil the surprise, no?” she teased.

Ukyo relented, finally giving a real smile. “I suppose it’s good that you’re dressed for the occasion. I just wish it could’ve been me, that’s all.”

“Me too,” she laughed.

He cleared his throat for a moment. “Speaking of that…”

“Steak and lobster and the swordfish,” the waiter interrupted, setting the plates on the table in front of them. “And your wine,” he continued, placing the glasses on the table. He took the bottle from the tray and poured wine into each of them. “Enjoy your meal,” he said, swiftly leaving.

She cautiously took a bite, waiting to see if Ukyo liked his steak. “Regards to the chef. Both are very well done. Ema, would you like some?” he asked, already cutting her a bite of both. “How do I eat it? Together?” she asked. He laughed quietly. “First the steak, then the lobster,” he instructed.

“Oh!” she squeaked. “That’s really good! The flavors are so different… But they go together really well. Do you want to try some of mine? It might not be as exciting, but I think it’s well seasoned. There’s some rosemary in there, I can tell,” she said, cutting a bite for him.

Passing him the fork, she waited for his judgment. “Your knowledge on spices has markedly improved since the last time we visited.”

She blushed, proud of her hard studying. She wanted to be able to enjoy any dish Ukyo cooked for her to the same extent that he could. Even if she wasn’t nearly as close, she was excited.

A long amount of small talk later, the meal was finished, and the check was paid. She smiled as he offered his hand to her, and pushed in her chair. “You seemed to enjoy the view. If you’ll humor me, I’d like to show you it again,” he said, guiding her to an elevator.

It was shimmery and new. There was no distinct smell of metal, only the soft perfume of flowers. There was no rough shake when it started to move, nor when it stopped. She glanced at Ukyo, but he was focused on something else, hands in his pockets.

The door opened to another door. Ukyo pushed it open for her, and she gasped. Stepping out onto the rooftop, the wind whipped at her hair and dress, but she couldn’t care less. The sky was black, but the stars glistened, each a small ray of sunlight poking through darkness. She felt as if they were just out of her grasp, if she was just a little higher, she could hold them in her hand. She traced a few constellations with her eyes, then looked to Ukyo.

“Ema. I think, finally, we can be alone,” he said, taking her hands in his. “I’m glad. It’s not every day that we can,” she said.

“I love you. And I’m tired of waiting.”

She was frozen with anticipation. Was this what he wanted to talk about? Probably. But was it what she wanted to hear? All he had to do was say it. All she had to do was say yes.

“It’s difficult to explain how you make me feel. You’re special to me in so many ways—I don’t know how you view yourself, but I know how I see you. You’re everything to me. You’re the one thing I would never give up. Never for my work, and never for my family. Never. And I’m tired of waiting. I thought I was a patient man, but I can’t wait any longer to call you my wife. Please, Ema,” he paused, lowering to one knee.

“Will you marry me?”

She pulled her hands as she gasped, staring at the ring he offered her. There was one next to it in the box, not as sparkly. She nodded as she watched him slip it over her finger, her mind filling with the image of her as his bride and her heart filling with love, and pulled the other from the box. “I’m tired of waiting too,” she said, slipping his ring onto the matching finger. Lacing her fingers in between his, she bent down to hold him. He wrapped his arms around her, and allowed her to bury herself in his warmth. “I love you, Ukyo.”

~~~

She leaned back, slumping into the chair. “Imai, are you done yet?” she asked. “Hold still and maybe I will be!” Imai chastised, switching brushes yet again.

“Okay…” she paused, fanning her hands over Ema’s face, then stood up. “You’re done!”

Ema opened her eyes, staring at herself in the mirror. She almost didn’t recognize herself. She looked so mature, yet so innocent. She felt silly seeing such a canvas on her. “It’ll look better when your hair is done. Don’t get self conscious on me now, Hina.”

Ema smiled. “No, it’s pretty. Don’t worry,” she told Imai, smiling at her in the mirror. Imai nodded slowly, skeptical of her answer, but seemed satisfied. “I’ll go get Louis, then. Stay put.”

The door opened again, and she watched Louis from the mirror shut the door behind him. “Ema… You already look so beautiful.”

She gave him a playful frown. “Quit flattering me. I don’t even have my dress on.”

He shook his head, but didn’t press more. He placed one hand on her shoulder as he carefully unwound the horrible bun that Imai had put her hair in.

He grabbed the brush that Ema had supplied him, and carefully began to brush from the bottom. She continued to watch him in the mirror. He was so meticulous about it.

“You’re scared.”

She was caught off guard, spinning around in her chair. The brush pulled through a difficult knot, and she hissed in pain. “Be careful, you’ll just hurt yourself more,” he warned.

Her eyebrows furrowed. “I’m not scared. Why would I be scared? You can’t just say-”

The look on his face made her stop. “You don’t think you’re worth it.”

Her mouth opened for a rebuttal, but it didn’t come. Louis was right. She was scared that she wasn’t enough. He was a lawyer, a responsible man with a respectable career, and he was a gracious older brother. She was just some girl. Just Ema.

Louis was blotting her face with one hand, the other placed atop her head, gently stroking her hair. “You’re worth it. You’re warm, even when others are cold. You’re strong, and resilient. You survived all 13 of us for long enough. Consider us your final test, and you passed it with flying colors,” he said, gently curling a lock of her hair around his finger.

There was a moment of silence before she broke out in to a wail. “I can’t hurt them like this!” she cried. Louis took an involuntary step back, surprised by the outburst. He couldn’t deny that some of them would be hurt, especially the more gentle ones. But that wasn’t what mattered now.

“We stepped down, remember? We stepped down because we wanted you to be happiest. Maybe it does hurt… But we made our choice, and we’re happy because you’re happy,” he told her, wrapping his arms around her.

She looked up, trying to give a small smile. “You finish crying… And I’ll do your hair. I’ll call in Mahoko when we’re both done. Just remember how happy we are,” he smiled, reaching for the curling iron.

She eventually stopped, carefully blotting to smear as little of the makeup as possible. She glanced up, and caught a glimpse of her reflection. Every curl was perfect. He watched her examine herself in the mirror, and smiled. He patted her once on the shoulder, then left.

He was quick to return, this time with someone else. “Mahoko was busy getting ready… I brought the second best option.”

Hikaru stood next to him, a hand resting on his hip. “Sheesh. You look awful,” he muttered, raising a hand to his chin. He took an intimidating step toward her, flashing that devilish smile. “We can fix this. Close your eyes, relax, and we’ll get you set.”

There was mumbling, and she felt her skin pulled every which way. But finally, he finished. The look was much simpler than before… But she would be lying if she said she wasn’t happy about that. It felt more natural, less heavy. It looked more like her.

“You’re still a little swollen around the eyes. So just be careful and try not to rub them. It’ll make it worse,” he instructed, straightening his back.

She was left alone, but only for a minute. A soft knock on the door signaled that the wedding was close. Miwa quickly entered, and pulled Ema from her chair. “Come on now, sweetie, we’ve gotta get you in that dress. Just put your shoes on and stand still,” Miwa said, rushing around the room. She grabbed the wide petticoat, and placed it on the ground for Ema to step in to, then pushed a stool closer to her.

“Oh, wait,” she said, turning around to grab something. “Something old. It’s the garter I wore when I married Rintarou. Now you’ve got one for each leg! Whichever one you want to toss, it’s up to you, but I want you to wear it as a sign of love. It’s what brought us all together, right?” she said, her voice slightly quivering.

Ema gave a soft smile, taking it delicately from her hands and slipping it up her leg. “It’s perfect,” she said with a small smile, admiring the lace.

Bunching the dress up as delicately as she could, she stood above Ema. “Arms up,” she commanded, before dropping the dress over her. Before Ema could even ask how late they were running, Miwa had finished fixing the lower half and now stood behind her.

She took a deep breath in as Miwa pulled the zipper up, and pulled the front of her dress up to prevent any accidents. Taking a step back, she smiled. “You always look so beautiful,” she said, her sweet, maternal warmth serving to calm Ema’s nerves.

Miwa stood there in silence, admiring Ema. There was a hint of a sniffle, and it’s clear she wanted to hug Ema, but she didn’t want to mess up the bride.

“There are a few gifts prepared for before the wedding. Do you want to go see them?” Miwa asked, holding the door open.

Nodding, Ema followed after her into the larger room. There they stood, watching. A few of them stepped forward. “Something new,” Kaname stepped forward, moving her hair to the side as he clipped an elegant gold necklace around her neck.

“Something borrowed,” Hikaru said, stepping forward with pink sapphire earrings, fixing them in her ears.

“Outside is your ‘something blue’,” Masaomi said.

“And your bouquet, too,” Iori said, offering her the large amount of flowers.

She smiled at her family, happy to have them all here. “Okay, well, I think the wedding is starting soon, so get ready for the processional,” Miwa said, patting Wataru’s head.

Miwa ushered for them to follow, organizing them into a perfect line and walking them out to the start of the aisle, when he saw her. They met eyes for a moment, and both broke into a smile. “Dad!” Ema called, rushing over to give a hug. “I’m so glad you could make it,” she said, shifting to hold her bouquet in the crook of her arm so she could hold his hands.

He laughed a little. “Ema, I wouldn’t miss this day for the world. Are you ready?” he asked, shifting to offer his arm. She smiled, and took it. “I am.”

Deep breath in… Deep breath out.

Around the corner, the doors opened, flooding the building with light. She blinked a few times before her eyes adjusted, and glanced to her father. He nodded, and walked forward. Stepping in the brilliant light of the sun, she looked up, wondering if the world was smiling upon them, before letting her gaze fall on to the people gathered. Friends and family, all smiling at her, all watching her.

Then her eyes shifted to him. He was waiting for her. She was ready to run in to his arms.

She had to keep a steady pace, doing her best to match her father’s, and she gave him a hug, but when he released her to go to the altar, she nearly ran.

The officiant said a few words, but she couldn’t focus on anything but Ukyo. He cleared his throat, and looked away for a moment as he gathered his strength. “Ema…” he started.

“You have taught me what it is like to love someone so pure, so kind. You have taught me what it is like to enjoy the world as it comes, to smile even when things are difficult, to love, even if it hurts. It never hurts to love you. It will never hurt to love you, ever. And I’m going to love you forever. Death will never break the bond we share. I love you, Ema,” he said, brushing a stray lock of hair from her face.

“Ukyo… It’s difficult to say what you’ve taught me. You’ve opened my eyes to all the wonders of the world, and taught me how to live life happily. You’ve shown me just how amazing life can be with you—I can’t imagine denying myself the happiness of being with you forever. So forever it is. I will wake every morning to see you, prepare every meal with hopes of sharing it with you, and cherish every moment. I love you, Ukyo!” she exclaimed, squeezing his hands.

She grabbed his ring from the small pillow and excitedly put it on his hand, watching with anticipation as he pushed her new wedding band onto her hand. “I now pronounce you husband,” the officiant paused to motion to Ukyo, “and wife,” he finished, gesturing to her. “You may-”

The world was their own. His hands rested under her back, dipping her backwards as he kissed her. Shivers ran through every part of her body, the magic of the moment coursing through every vein. She wanted this moment to last forever… but she knew that there would be many more of these moments to come. He finally broke away, staring in to her eyes with an intense lust, but didn’t go back for seconds.

He set her back on her feet, and she linked arms with him, took her bouquet from Imai, and ran down the aisle, running to their new life.

[middleearthpixie]

Better Days ~ Chapter Fifteen

Summary: Frerin Durin had the perfect life, until he found out his wife was cheating on him. Now, he’s navigating uncharted territory as an about-to-be divorced single dad. Dating is a mess, he’s dealing with the fallout where his kids are concerned, and really, he would just love a vacation away from all of it. 

Elena Madison is new to Sidleburg, and also navigating life as a newly single parent. The last thing she needed was for her daughter to come down sick, when she hasn’t even had time to unpack the moving boxes, never mind find a pediatrician. And the last thing she ever expected was to meet a man like Dr. Frerin Durin…

Neither Elena nor Frerin were looking for anything, but fate has a way of messing up even the best laid plans. However, both have been hurt and both aren't at all sure they trust themselves, never mind trusting someone else...

Pairings:  Modern!Frerin  x ofc Elena Madison

Characters: Frerin, Elena

Warnings: Oral sex (m/f receiving), protected intercourse

Rating: E, 18+ 

Word Count: 3.9k 

Tag List: @mrsdurin @i-did-not-mean-to @lathalea @linasofia @fizzyxcustard @legolasbadass @kibleedibleedoo @xxbyimm @arrthurpendragon @exhausted-humxn-being @rachel1959 @laurfilijames @sketchy-loo6195 @sherala007 @enchantzz @knittastically @notlostgnome @myselfandfantasy @medusas-hairband @guardianofrivendell @jotink78 @sorisooyaa @ruthoakenshield @frosticenow @quiall321 @dianakc @buckybarnes-thorin @glassgulls @evenstaredits @heilith @asgardianhobbit98 @albionscastle @absentmindeduniverse @way-too-addicted-to-fandoms @sazzlep @court-jobi @masterofhounds

If you’d like to be added (or removed) to the tag list, please just let me know!

Previous chapters can be found here. 

“That was amazing. I had no idea you could cook.” Elena set down her napkin and reached for her wineglass.

“I had to learn. My kids wanted to eat on a regular basis. And I confess, I got the recipe out of the grocery store’s magazine.”

He waited a moment and then, on cue, Elena said, “Your grocery store has its own magazine?”

“It does and that’s where just about all of my recipes come from. Although, not all of them are quite as good as this and some were flat out duds.” He smiled at her across the table. They were in the kitchen, which was far cozier than the formal dining room, and truth be told, all he could think about was getting her back upstairs and back in bed. He still felt the aftershocks of sex with her, and he couldn’t remember the last time that happened. In fact, he wasn't at all sure it ever happened to him. 

“So, what other talents do you have?”

He grinned, arching one eyebrow. “Want to go back upstairs and find out?”

“Do I hear a hint of cockiness in your voice, Dr. Durin?”

He stood up and moved around to where she sat and caught her by the hands to draw her up from her chair. “Maybe. It depends, really. I’m not very good at flirting. I sound like kind of a dick, don’t I?”

“Normally I’d say yes, you did, but,” she told him, a hint of laughter in her voice as she draped her arms about his neck, “I’ve seen you when you weren’t trying to get laid, so I’m not so sure dick is the right word. Still, can I tell you something?”

“Sure.” He let his hands come to rest on her hips. He couldn't help himself. Heat wafted from her body, seeping into his palms, and without thinking, he tightened his fingers against her.

“You don't have to flirt with me now. I’m here, aren’t I? And I wouldn’t be if I wasn't interested.”

A hint of idiocy flashed through him. “Yeah, you have me there. I’m sorry, Elena. I’m… I’m really out of practice. And I know I keep saying that, but I am.”

“It’s okay. So am I.”

He let his hands slip down over her ass, which just fit so perfectly in his palms. Her fingertips brushed along the back of his neck, lightly at first, but then her fingernails dragged across his nape and a shiver rippled along his spine. 

She looked up at him, her eyes soft and dancing with invitation that had him leaning in to capture her lips with his. Her arms tightened about him. She flattened her body against his, and as those perfect firm breasts pressed against his chest, fire ignited his blood to send it south. Tension twisted through him, the heat that filled him spread outward, and the tingles that meant the beginnings of a steely erection spiraled along the same path. 

Her lips parted, her mouth sweet and inviting as her tongue caressed his. Her fingers slid along his neck, up into his hair, where they twisted and tugged to send another tingle along his scalp. He drew her tongue into his mouth to teasingly suck at it, his hands tightening on her at her quick intake of breath. 

He slid a hand up from her hip to the bottom of her sweater, where he eased beneath it and skimmed along her silken skin up to her right breast. She gasped again as he palmed her breast, as he eased it from her bra to feel it bare in his hand. Her nipple was a tight bead already, begging for his attention even as he swirled his thumb about it slowly. 

Her back bowed, that breast pressing deeper into his hand. He caught her nipple between his thumb and forefinger to roll, to tug, to stroke. Breaking the kiss, he smile down at her before tugging her sweater up and off once more, and let it fall onto the table, then he unhooked her bra and it joined her sweater.

To put it simply, her breasts were amazing. Just large enough to fit in his hands without any spillover, firm, with dark nipples beading into taut peaks. He bent to her, caught one between his lips. Her soft sigh whispered against him as he swirled his tongue about that hard nub, as he caught it between his teeth to tug ever so gently. A hint of sweet musk rose to tease his nose, utterly heady and powerful. He reached for the snap on her jeans, popped it, slid the zipper down and eased his hand down until he brushed the ebony curls he sought. They were damp already, her arousal silken and hot to slick her flesh and when he slid a finger into her folds, it glided along her. 

“Frerin…” Her whisper came husky and raw to his ears, her fingers twisting harder in his hair. He stroked her, sliding his fingertips one by one over the silky, swollen bead nestled in those damp folds. She shivered with each pass, moaned as he eased the tip of his finger inside her. He slid it back out. He swept his thumb along her clit, slid lazily around it, brushed directly over it. She moved with him, rocking to meet each pass as she whispered, “Oh, holy shit… do that again…”

He teased her clit, pressing down with each slow, teasing rotation and as he plunged that finger back inside her, she rocked hard against his hand, wetter with each caress. The musky scent thickened, his cock responding by straining against his jeans. He tried to ignore it, concentrating on the way she throbbed about his finger, how slick and hot she grew at his touch. She clenched hard about him, squeezed his finger the way she would his cock, each sensual pulse stronger than the last as her orgasm appeared on the horizon. 

He slid his finger free and smiled as he sank to his knees before her, dragging her jeans and thong down as he did. As denim skimmed over her knees, the perfume of her arousal grew thicker, headier, aroused him to the point where he ached to just fuck her. 

But not yet.

Her legs parted as he nuzzled those damp curls and when he dipped to her and let his tongue skim along the heated flesh, her moan echoed through the kitchen. She was hot and sweet, her folds silken with her arousal, and he savored her taste as much he did her scent. He laved over her clit, gentle at first, but as she rolled her hips to meet him, he added a bit more pressure, wasn't quite as concerned with being gentle. He just wanted her to come and he wanted her to come hard. He wanted her fingers to yank on his hair and her body to cream over his tongue.

“Frerin… oh, right—right there, ooooh…”

He teased her with rough flicks, with determined swirls, and then leaned in to close his lips about that swollen, throbbing bead and gave a teasing pull on it. 

She shattered. 

“Frerin!” She came in a furious flash, the sudden gush of musky fluid unexpected but heady and erotic and it was almost enough to make him come without her even touching him. He devoured her then, merciless as he drew out her orgasm, savoring the way she writhed against him, the way she melted over his tongue. She shuddered against him, her legs trembling beneath his hands, her hips thrusting against him as she pleaded and moaned her pleasure in a raw half-whisper/half-moan.

She trembled against him as she went limp, sagging against the table, fighting to catch her breath. He stood and leaned in to kiss her, long and lingeringly, and when he drew back, she whispered, “Holy fuck, that was amazing…”

He grinned. “It felt like it.”

She reached for him then, snagging him by the waistband of his Levi’s and tugged him close once more. As her lips met his, she popped the fly on his jeans and a moment later he shivered as her soft hand closed about his cock to stroke him slowly from base to head. She tugged him free, and offered up a devilish smile as this time, she sank to her knees before him and—

“Oh, sweet Jesus!” He couldn’t hold back his moan as her lips closed about him and she drew him deep. Her tongue slid silkily along the underside of his shaft, around the sensitive ridge of his head. Her mouth tightened about him, pulled gently to send fiery pleasure streaking through him as she tugged his jeans and boxer briefs down and her fingernails swept lightly over his ass cheeks, down the backs of his thighs, which quivered in response as every fiber in his body tensed, He looked down, swallowing an oath at the erotic sight of her dipping to him, pulling back, and then she looked up at him and winked and he buried a hand in her hair, gritting, “Oh, Lena… you are going to make me come, beautiful woman… keep doing ju-just that…”

She smiled around her mouthful of cock, and winked back and then pulled harder to send fresh fire tearing ass through him. Everything in his body tightened from the white-hot pleasure scorching through him. His head spun, his muscles tensed, his balls contracted as his orgasm wound through him like a python, squeezing him until he thought he’d go fucking insane if she didn't make him come. 

He thrust into her mouth, fisting her hair as he did, grunting softly as she swirled her tongue about his head, into the far-too-sensitive flesh around it, underneath it, and he couldn't slow down. His hips snapped back and forth, his rhythm fast and furious as the blinding need for release choked him.

“Lena… oh, holy Christ, Lena, I’m gonna—”

White lights burst before his eyes. He tensed as her lips squeezed him, and then, he moaned low in his throat, utter flaming ecstasy burning through him as he tensed, as he shuddered.

He came in a hard spurt, her name a raspy growl on his lips, bright lights erupting before his eyes as he shuddered again, tensed again, and arched a second time against her. Her fingernails along the backs of his thighs once more had him trembling and a wave of dizziness slammed into him as she slowed and then pulled away from him to kiss her way back up to meet his lips. 

He sank into her, wrapping his arms about her as he whispered, “Holy shit, honey… that… oh fuck me, that was… Christ, I need to sit…”

“So, sit,” she whispered, gently pushing him down into her vacated chair before she drew her jeans and underwear back up. 

The wood was cool against his bare ass, but he didn't care as he tugged her down onto his lap and wrapped his arms about her once more. She melted against him, her lips brushing his ear as she murmured, “I thought I should return the favor.”

“I am so fucking glad you did…” He managed, his eyes closing as the delicious post-orgasm drowsiness set in. He leaned into her, his head coming to rest in the slope of her neck as he waited for it to clear. He couldn’t remember the last time woman gave him oral sex to completion, and couldn't believe he’d forgotten just how fucking good it felt to be brought to orgasm that way. The only thing that would feel better would be fucking skin to skin with her. 

Her fingers slid through his hair, the caresses soothing and gentle. “So am I. You, Dr Durin, are an easy man to please.”

He managed to lift his head and smiled at her. “I like you. That’s really the only thought I can process right now.”

“I know that feeling.” She shifted to face him, leaning in to press her forehead to his. “I like you, too, Frerin.”

He let his fingers trail down along her back, his hands coming to rest on her hips. As his head cleared and the feeling returned to the rest of his body, he said, “Really? I hadn’t noticed.”

“Funny.” She tucked a loose dark wave of hair behind her ear and sat back. “Maybe we should clean this mess up.”

“I don't want to move. I really can’t feel my legs. I wasn't kidding when I said it’s been a while.”

“Well, your dry spell—and mine—has come to an end.” She eased off him and grinned as she retrieved her bra and sweater to finish redressing. Then, she moved to the mountain of dishes in the sink and opened the taps.

He watched for a minute, and when he was sure he could trust his still-somewhat wobbly legs, he rose and tugged his jeans back up to his hips and fastened them, then joined her at the sink. 

The room was dark and cozy and Frerin let his eyes close as Elena snuggled up against him, her head tucked against his chest, her arm draped over his hips. SportsCenter played softly on the television, bathing the room in a soft bluish glow. He let his fingers trail along Elena’s thick, dark curls, which were cool and silky to the touch. “What’re you thinking about?”

She trailed her fingertips along his stomach, down to his hip before saying, “I’ve had a really nice time tonight, Frerin.”

“Yeah? Me, too. And I don’t just mean this,” he gestured between them with his free hand, “although it has been amazing.”

She smiled, her eyes glittering in the low light. “Amazing?”

“Oh, yeah. Amazing. Really fucking amazing, actually.”

“I’m glad you think so.” She lifted her head to peer across the room. “I really should be getting home. It’s almost midnight.”

“Why don't you stay?” The words slipped out on their own and for a moment, he inwardly winced. Way to go, jackass. You probably just scared her off.

“Stay?”

“Yeah. Why not? I mean, unless you don’t want to, which I’d understand, of course.”

She smiled at him. “Would you like me to stay?”

Hell, yes!

But he had to play it cool, so he said, “Only if you want to.”

“Frerin.”

“Okay, yes. I’d like it if you did.” The sheets rustled as he shifted to ease over her. “I want to see what you look like in the morning.”

“I’m more troll than woman come sunrise.”

“I find that hard to believe.” He dipped to brush her lips with his, then drew back to add, “You’re fucking gorgeous, Lena.”

“You’re only saying that because I ended your dry spell.”

“Well, that’s true—that you ended it, that is—but I’m saying it because it’s true. I thought so when I came into the room to examine your daughter. And you are, you know.”

“Thank you.” She slid her arms about his waist and it was all he could do to not shiver as she traced her fingernails along his back. Each stroke made his eyelids heavier, and when he kissed her again, her hands came flat against his back and she pulled him against her. 

He rolled carefully, tugging her atop him, his hands skimming along her back, down over the rise of her ass. She broke the kiss to sit back, straddling his hips as she trailed her fingers along his chest, brushing about his nipples to send renewed heat swirling through him. The very sight of her was enough to arouse him, her skin creamy and flawless, her dark hair streaming over her breasts, teasing him with hints and peeks through the ebony strands.

He couldn’t resist, but reached up to trace his fingertip about her left nipple, smiling as it slowly shrank into a tight bead and her eyes grew sleepy and seductive. She caught her full bottom lip between her teeth as he continued tracing that tiny circle, and little by little, he felt a hint of dampness against him. 

With his free hand, he slid into the shadow between her thighs to find her wet already, and his fingers slipped into the silky damp heat, smiling as her breath hitched and her one hand came up to cup her unattended breast. He bit back a groan as she pinched her nipple and slowly rocked against his hand, riding it as she grew wetter still. 

He slipped a finger inside her and stroked, feeling about teasingly for that small spongy swelling along her front wall, smiling as she tightened about his finger and rolled her hips slowly. Her breath hitched. She snagged her bottom lip between her teeth. A soft moan rolled toward him. When he found what he sought, he stroke as gently as he knew how, smiling as she suddenly squeezed him and murmured, “Mmmm…”

Her breath quickened. Her body trembled. She moved faster against him, but before he could push her over the edge, she slid her hand down along her waist, and reached down to gently pull him free, then she whispered, “Hold that thought,” as she lifted his hand to his cock and folded his fingers about himself. “And think of me until I come back.”

Heat flashed through him and he bit back another groan as he tightened his grip on himself and slowly stroked from base to tip, his body tensing as she whispered, “Good boy,” and eased down from the bed to go into the bathroom.

Another stroke and a moan floated to his lips. She hadn’t really even touched him, and he was on the brink of coming already. Everything inside him twisted and tightened as his hand slid up and down faster along his shaft, his pre-cum making each stroke silky and smooth. His breath caught. His body tensed. He teetered on the edge—

“Stop.” She caught his wrist as he was about to go over the edge and he swore softy at the frustration of pent-up, unspent arousal that created a powerful ache that was as delicious as it was maddening. 

“Stop… oh, fuck… Lena…”

“You’ll get what you want,” she purred, leaning over to trace the tip of her tongue along the base of his cock toward the tip. His hips bolted of their own as her mouth closed about him and he twisted a handful of the sheet beneath him as fire ripped though him. 

Then she pulled back, bringing a strangled moan to his lips. Through the haze of fiery arousal and aching need fogging his brain, he heard the soft tear of a condom packet and then let out a hard breath as she pulled free and rolled the condom over his cock. The bed shifted. She straddled him once more.

“Oooh, thank fuck…” His moan almost bounced off the walls and every fiber in his body tightened as he watched his cock slide into her and she seated him fully inside her. A slow, teasing roll of her hips, and his body burst into flames.

She rode him so slowly, he thought he’d lose it entirely, as the sight of her pulling away, and then him slipping back into her was enough to bring him to the edge. She tensed about him, every inch of her silky and hot and delicious and she smiled as he reached to slip hand between them.

He found what he sought, the silken bead of her clit, and worked it slowly, the pad of his finger slipping in a slow circle about it to make her squeeze him tighter. He forced his heavy eyelids to remain open, watching as her breasts undulated with each roll, and she moved faster now as he teased her mercilessly. She grew slick and hot once more, and he wanted to make her squirt again, whispering, “Come for me, beautiful girl…”

“Oh, keep doing that, and I will,” she promised, her hips moving faster. She leaned forward to brace her hands on his chest, riding him faster now, slick and hot and on the very edge with him. He felt it in the way she spasmed about him, pulsing in a delicious rhythm that had him pumping into her as black dots danced before his eyes. She tensed about him, his fingers coated with her climax as she threw her head back and surrendered to the moment, her body pulsing madly about his and squeezing his orgasm free.

He came in a fiery flash, arching hard to go deep as everything inside him turned over and it was his turn to give himself entirely to her. His hands clamped on her thighs, his body surged into hers, and he couldn't hold back his, “Lena!” as he spilled into her. 

“Frerin… oh, God!” Her cry echoed around them and then, as quickly as it happened, she collapsed against him and he caught her easily, cradling her against him as she trembled furiously. 

“Shh… easy, love…” he murmured, her breath hot, hard blasts against the side of his neck. He felt dizzy all over again, not at all sure he wasn't about to pass out as he just held her until she calmed. 

“Oh, my god… that was… I have never felt anything like this… not fucking ever…” she managed to whisper, then brushed the side of his neck with a gentle kiss. 

He smiled into the darkness, tightening his arms about her as he let his eyes close. He couldn't remember the last time he’d felt such peace, such utter, amazing serenity as he felt at that very moment, with this woman in his arms. 

She carefully eased off him and he groaned softly. “I hate this part.”

“I know, but…”

“I know.” He carefully sat up, still not one hundred percent sure he wasn't about to pass out. When he was more confident he could walk, he padded into the bathroom to clean up and when he came back, Elena was stretched out on her stomach, just watching him with a soft smile on her lips.

He came around the far side of the bed and slid in next to her, curving against her as he gently swept her hair away from her neck and leaned over to sweep a kiss along the curve of her shoulder. 

She rolled toward him, snuggling up against him, and tucked her head against his chest. “This was a wonderful Christmas, Frerin.”

“Mmm…” he murmured, tightening his arm about her shoulders. “It really was.”

Her hand came to rest on his stomach, her fingers brushing back and forth, the rhythm making it impossible to keep his eyes open. So, he gave up trying and drifted off into a deep, dreamless sleep for the first time in months. 

[heartlessfujoshi]

flufftober day 29 - kazurei 'say it back'

Title: Say It Back Chapter: 6 of 6 Fandom: Buddy Daddies Pairing: KazuRei (Kurusu Kazuki x Suwa Rei) Rating: Teen (Love Confessions - Domesticated Fluff - Fluff - Kisses) WordCount: ~2,125 Prompt: Hey, wake up!

Read: Ch 1 Ch 2 Ch 3 Ch 4 Ch 5

---

A heavy object fell on Kazuki’s chest, startling him awake with a loud gasp, his chest lifting up into the air. Two small hands touched his face, and it took a few seconds for Miri’s face to come into focus as he stared into her eyes. “Hey, wake up!” She spoke loud, making him wince as her hands stayed planted on his face. “Wake up, Kazuki Papa!” 

“I’m…awake.” He groaned, shifting her to be off of his chest, allowing him to breathe a bit easier as she laid down on his chest. “Why are you here so early?” He asked, yawning. He looked to his left, and saw that Rei was still sleeping soundly. Bastard. 

She giggled against his chest. “Because! You promised we would go out today! And it’s today, Papa!” She lifted her head, the excitement written all over her face. “We’re still going out today, aren’t we, Papa?” 

“We are.” Kazuki had forgotten that he’d promised Miri they would go out together. It had to have been a week ago when he’d mentioned it. Leave it to her to remember such an important day, while he completely had forgotten about it. “But we need to sleep for a little bit longer.”

“Nooooo!” She shook her entire body. “Breakfast now!” 

He knew it was a losing battle. “Yes, yes. Okay, let’s get up, Miri-chan.” 

“Yay!” 

Miri dropped down to the floor with a soft thud, then bounced out of the bedroom and headed down the stairs to the first floor. Kazuki got out of bed, groaning as his chest still hurt from how Miri had woken him up. Reaching down, he shook Rei’s shoulder. “Oy. Get up.” 

“No.” Rei mumbled, his head still turned in the opposite direction. “Sleep.” 

“You won’t get breakfast if you don’t get up now. And you have to wake up - we’re taking Miri out today.” 

The blankets were thrown off, and he saw Rei giving him a death glare. “Why.” 

“Because we told her we would.” He grinned, pleased to see Rei was much more miserable than he was. “Now get up, and help me with breakfast.” 

“I hate you.” 

“Yes, I know you do.” He left the bedroom, feeling much better at having gotten Rei to wake up too. He saw Miri was sitting on the couch, and was watching one of her shows. “Don’t watch for too long, Miri-chan. Breakfast will be ready soon.” 

“Okay, Papa!” She set the remote down, and got comfortable on the couch, singing along to the song being sung on the television. 

He started to put together the mix for pancakes when Rei stumbled into the kitchen, and draped himself against his back. “You’re not helping.” He teased, happy to have Rei’s weight on him as he whisked the ingredients together in a bowl. “Why are you so tired?” 

“Because someone decided last night would be a good time to-”

Kazuki dropped the bowl, and quickly turned around, putting his hand over Rei’s mouth. “Shhh! We can’t talk about that right now!” He nodded his head towards where Miri was sitting. He could see the smirk in Rei’s eyes, which made him cluck his tongue. “Tsch. You jerk.” 

“Right back at you.” Rei quickly pressed a kiss to his cheek, then went over to the couch with Miri, who quickly crawled into his lap to watch the show together. 

He got the pancakes all cooked, and carried them over to the dining room table. “Time to turn the program off.” He got pancakes arranged on their plates, and then sat down. Miri was carried over to her chair by Rei, who set her down gently, and then took a seat across from where Kazuki was sitting. “I hope you like banana pancakes.” 

“It looks yummy, Papa! Thank you for the food!” Miri clapped her hands together, reciting what he’d taught her months ago. 

Both him and Rei repeated the words, and tucked into the food. Kazuki was pleased to see everyone eating fast, glad that he’d made some extras as he knew they would be a hit with both Rei and Miri. He gave them the extras, and once everyone was finished, he got to work cleaning up the kitchen. 

“Miri-chan, would you like to dress up today?” 

“Can I?!” She bounced up and down, nodding her head. “Oh, please, Papa! Does that mean you and Papa will dress up too?” 

“Why not.” He nodded, and saw Rei’s shoulders drop. “It’ll be nice to look nice as a family.” 

“Yay!” 

Rei turned to look at him, a curious look on his face, which made Kazuki grin. “What?” He asked, wanting to hear what Rei thought about his comment. 

“Nothing.” Rei looked at the stairs, and saw Miri was already back on the second floor. “I’ll get her ready.” 

“Thank you, Rei.” He nodded, and saw him walk up the flight of stairs, and then could hear Miri’s peals of laughter as he got her into the bath. 

Kazuki went to their shared bedroom, and found a suit that would be perfect for the day. It was much cooler now, and wearing a wool suit wouldn’t be too much of an issue on a day like today. It was black, and he paired it with an all red shirt, choosing a black tie to complete the look. Rei came in, and gave him a very appreciative look, one that made Kazuki a little sad they had to leave soon, as the look held a promise that he would keep with him until they returned and Miri was in bed. 

He went downstairs and saw Miri was wearing a very beautiful gown that he’d picked up a month ago for her. It had been a little big then, but it fit her perfectly now. “Wow, Miri-chan! You look like a princess!” 

“Thank you, Papa!” She laughed, clapping her hands. “I feel like a princess!” 

Looking up, he saw Rei walking down the stairs, looking very handsome. He knew that wearing a suit meant something different to Rei, but he saw that he’d modified it to be worn with an all black shirt, and a black tie, giving off a menacing look at first glance, but the more you looked at him, the more you could see he wasn’t someone to be afraid of. His hair was up, but it wasn’t the usual ponytail to show his undercut - no, it was half up, with his sides exposed but not the back of his head. 

“Nice hair.” Kazuki complimented him, as Rei walked over to stand next to him. 

“Miri-chan helped me.” Rei commented, giving a wink to the four year old, who was giggling uncontrollably. “Are you ready to go?” 

“Yes, Papa!” Miri jumped up from the couch, her small heels clicking on the floor. “Where are we going again?” 

“Anywhere Miri-chan wants.” Kazuki hadn’t really set a specific place - it was more about spending the time together, rather than a destination. “Where would you like to go?” 

“Can we go get ice cream?” 

He looked at Rei, who had a look of hope in his eyes. Kazuki sighed. Of course Rei would want ice cream this early, because he was practically a child himself sometimes. “Yes, we can go get some ice cream. But then, that means extra veggies for lunch.” He made a point to look at Rei when saying it. 

“Fine.” Both Miri and Rei said, their heads tucked down with a pout on their faces. Kazuki wanted to pull his phone out and snap a picture, as they both looked adorable knowing they were going to have to eat healthy for lunch. 

The ice cream shop was open, and not at all busy. Kazuki bought a banana split for them to share, the three of them sitting at a counter, looking out at the busy street. People would stop and look at them, no doubt jealous that they were eating ice cream at half past nine in the morning, or maybe they were looking at them like they were crazy. Kazuki didn’t care. He listened to Miri tell a story about what had happened at school the day before, and listened to Rei get upset when Miri had said a boy had picked on her. Kazuki was quick to hop into the conversation, informing Rei that there was no need to do anything to the boy, and he would speak to Miss Anna to make sure everything was okay. 

After ice cream, Miri picked going to the Bargain Store, which Kazuki set a strict rule of only getting five things for the day. Rei gave him another look, but he shrugged, knowing that five would be plenty for Miri. They spent almost an hour in the store, as she took picking out her items very seriously, as she weighed the benefits of keeping certain items. To be truthful, Kazuki watched what she put back and made a note to pick it up for Christmas, which was right around the corner.  “Can I get something?” Rei asked him, after they went down the last aisle with Miri. 

He raised his eyebrow up. “Yes? Why are you asking me?” 

“I don’t know.” Rei shrugged. “Just seemed like the right thing to do.” 

Kazuki chuckled. “Go and get whatever. You don’t have to ask me.” 

“Right.” Rei turned on his heel, and went down another aisle. 

Miri picked her fifth item, and they took it up to the register to purchase. “I’ll hold onto this, Miri-chan.” Kazuki held the bag in his hand, as he offered his other hand to Miri, who took it without question. “Let’s go find Rei.” 

“Okay, Papa!” 

Rei was waiting for them outside, and as Miri came up to him, he held out his hand to her, so that she was holding both of their hands as they walked away from the shop. 

“Where to next, Princess?” Kazuki asked, as they came to a stop at a stoplight. 

“I’m hungry, Papa!” 

“Food it is.” 

They made a few turns, and came to a ramen shop that Miri liked. After a hearty meal of ramen, Miri started to yawn, making it painfully clear that the day was going to be coming to an end. He handed his bag to Rei, who took it without a word, as he scooped Miri up into his arms. She immediately put her head on his shoulder, and fell asleep, snoring softly as he carried her all the way home. 

He got her out of her dress, and into some pajamas, and then tucked her into bed. “We’ll go out again soon, Miri-chan.” He kissed her forehead, and heard her mumble something unintelligible as she buried her face into her pillow and fell right back asleep. 

Kazuki went downstairs, undoing his tie as he walked down the stairs, and saw Rei was sitting on the couch with the bag from the Bargain Store on his lap. “Close your eyes.” Rei said, as he came over to where he was. 

Closing his eyes, he heard the bag rustle. “What is this about, then?” He asked. 

“Nothing.” Rei put something soft into his hands. “You can open them now.” 

He opened his eyes, and saw a small blond stuffed bear was sitting on his palms. He looked up at Rei, who had a half-smile on his face. “What’s this?” 

“It’s a bear, Kaz.” 

“I know what it is!” He said, as he took a look at the stuffed animal. “But why?” 

“Saw it, and thought you needed it.” Rei shrugged his shoulders. “If you don’t like it, I’m sure Miri woul-” 

“I like it!” He quickly hugged the bear against his chest. Rei had never gotten him anything before. “I like it a lot.” 

“Then, it’s yours.” 

“Good!” 

He sat down on the couch next to Rei, cuddling the bear against his chest. “Do you think Miri-chan had a good time today?” 

“She’s asleep, isn’t she?” 

“Yes?” 

“Then, I’d say it was a good day.” Rei put his hand on his thigh. “Did you have a good day, Kaz?” 

Lifting his head, he looked at his partner, and smiled. “Any day I get to spend with you and Miri is a good day, Rei.” 

“I had a good day too.” 

“Then I would say this was a success.” 

He leaned forward and kissed Rei on the lips, but kept it chaste as they knew Miri was upstairs and could come down at any moment. Still, it was a nice kiss. Kazuki really had found his family with both Rei and Miri. What was to come was anyone’s guess, but right now - right now, they were his entire world, and he couldn’t have been any happier. 

---

Cross-posted to AO3

[alexclrmontdiaz]

🎄 I'm currently writing a collection of Christmas fics and so far this is one of my absolute favorite moments. I'm posting the very first fic on December 1st on my ao3 account: alexclrmontdiaz

Henry follows Alex to the living room and he comes to an abrupt halt when they round the corner. Alex is standing in the midst of Christmas decorations that are scattered all over the place. Baubles are scattered across the table and the couch, several smashed baubles colour the floors a shade of red, gold and silver. There’s holly garlands all over the place and tinsels are draped over the dining room chairs. Henry looks back at Alex and he notices some of the sparkly tinsel material in Alex’s hair.  ‘You called me here,’ Henry starts, his eyes glancing around the room again. ‘–to help you with your Christmas decorations?’ ‘Yes,’ Alex answers, his voice so genuine that Henry can’t even be annoyed at him for it. ‘You’re so much better at these kinds of things, I’m just a–’ ‘Disaster?’ Henry offers.  Alex grimaces. ‘I didn’t call you here to insult me either, Fox. I need to get all of this set up today. June is coming over tomorrow and she’s staying for the rest of the week and I kind of told her that I had set everything up already to avoid her taking over my entire house and decorating it to her liking.’ Alex looks horrified when he looks at Henry again. ‘When June decorates it’s like a hungover Christmas spirit came over and vomited all over the entire house. In the worst way possible.’