#rose block pattern

[bevanne46]

Someone asked for a Rose Quilt Block. I found a couple: There were no written instructions for these, just the diagrams so you will have to figure out how large to make your pieces.

[starxxwishly]

MCSM-Tober Day 3: Pumpkinhead

List by @bumpkin-bug

[sunshinesight]

The next design challenge is "floral block prints."

I haven't bothered to make a block print since high school… I didn't take anything that involved screen printing or print making in college either. Still, I'm familiar with the genre, and it's the floral part that interests me.

You know, I do skip the design challenges that are like "make a geometric wallpaper pattern with the theme of sand" or "hey you guys, cowboybootcore!" — you know, because presently there's a willingness to attach "core" to the end of any random word and pretend like it's a hot design trend.

I need to resolve the 'leaves in the corner' situation, and probably make the line weight a tad hefty when I ink it.

Technically, it should be a 4 color design.

[kyeomofhearts]

Bed Wars | J.WW

+ summary: after spending countless hours building a house for your boyfriend... you're suddenly met with his bed placed right next to yours? what the hell man! + pairing: wonwoo x fem!reader + word count: 800~ + content: fluff, established relationship, they're just playing minecraft lol, reader likes to bicker.

[ᝰ.ᐟ] happy valentine's day!!! thought i would post something small to celebrate since i didn't post for last year's valentine's day. also i would like to (unfortunately) thank @cherry-zip for bullying me into posting this on time! hope you enjoy, thanks for reading! <3 (borders made by @enchanthings !)

"C’mon dude,” you groaned, staring at the sight in front of you. “I made you a house for a reason!”

Wonwoo’s response? Moving his bed right next to yours. 

“Well, I want to sleep here,” he stated simply.

You let out an annoyed sigh, arms crossed. “Like, seriously? The colors don’t even match!”

Wonwoo only giggled, enjoying your frustration with him. “What are you talking about? My purple bed goes perfectly with your pink one. Also, what if a creeper spawns in my house—how will you ever hear my cries for help?”

Your eye twitched at his insistence. God, he was so annoying. “Now, why would a creeper spawn in your house?” 

“You never know, I’ve seen it happen before.” 

“Fine. I’ll move out then,” you said, quickly destroying your bed and leaving the house. You weren’t even bothered enough to take anything from your chests.

The two of you continued playing in silence for a few minutes. It’s not like you were actually mad or anything… but it was fun to start a meaningless fight with Wonwoo. 

In the meantime, you explored the surrounding biomes in hopes of finding a suitable place to make a new house. Well, more like a camp. (Your house was way too pretty for you to simply abandon.)

After a few more minutes of silence, Wonwoo began to message you in the game.

[gam3bo1: where are you :(]

[gam3bo1: i miss youuuuu]

[gam3bo1: answer me!]

“Are you mad at me?” He asked, turning to look at you from his monitor, eyes filled with faux innocence.

You scoffed. “Oh, no. Not at all. I just love how you’re completely ignoring the fact that I built a whole house for you, and yet, you insist on staying in my house!”

Wonwoo let out a dramatic sigh. “Well, it's not my fault my house feels so… lonely.” 

You rolled your eyes as he spoke, but he didn’t stop there. Who would’ve known that he was going to be this pouty.

“Look, our babies miss you too.” He waved you down to look over at his screen.

To your disappointment, curiosity got the better of you. “This better be–” Your voice cut off at the sight of your pets. 

All of your in-game pets–the dogs, cats, and even the random parrot you found in a jungle biome a few weeks back–were all sitting obediently inside your home. Wonwoo had conveniently placed them all in front of his bed, having them turned to look at the empty space–where your bed used to be. 

You narrowed your eyes upon realizing the little stunt he was trying to pull on you. “You’re trying to manipulate me into going back home!”

Wonwoo gasped. “I would never do such a thing!”

After a few moments of pure laughter, you finally gave in. You could never stay mad at him for too long. 

“...Fine, I’ll come back.” You huffed out, finally turning back to your monitor and making your way back home.

As you neared your house, something new caught your eye.

Behind your house, was a small, heart-shaped garden. The ground was tiled in a red-and-pink checkered pattern, carefully placed block by block. Peonies and roses filled the garden’s corners, their colors nicely decorating the huge heart in the middle. In front of the heart sat a small seating area just for the two of you.

“Oh.”

“I made it while you were ignoring me,” Wonwoo said, his voice suddenly next to your ear.

Your fingers hovered over your keyboard. It was… annoyingly cute.

You continued to move around, stepping onto the checkered flooring and admiring the little details he had placed all around. It was cute.

“...You built me a garden?” you asked softly.

Wonwoo hummed. “I might have had help from a few tutorials, but yeah. I wanted to make a spot for us.” 

And unsurprisingly, your stomach did an embarrassing flip.

Wonwoo went back over to his desk, quickly moving his player to sit on one of the chairs in the garden. Following him, you sat down in the chair in front of him, and before you could even say anything he beat you to it.

“I just thought our shared house could use a little extra love. You know, since we obviously live together.”

You groaned, covering your face with your hands as Wonwoo laughed triumphantly beside you. He just had to ruin the moment! 

“Now c’mon, let’s go to bed,” he said as he pressed ‘Save and Exit’. By the time you reached the main menu, Wonwoo was already pulling you away from your desk.

“I’m never building you anything ever again,” you muttered, body betraying you as you leaned into him on your shared bed.

“Yeah, yeah,” he murmured into your hair, pressing a soft kiss to the top of your head. “And yet you still let me sleep next to you.” 

You wanted to argue, but sleep was already pulling you away. “Mhm, whatever helps you sleep at night.”

[marsprincess889]

Basic themes of nakshatras

May edit this later, this is as far as I understand and have observed them, and I think it's pretty nice to see them simply.

Ashwini:

Newness, freshness, the unmanifest, speed, energy, vitality, instinct, healing, fast healing, unlimited energy, self-expression, selfishness, blocking outside noise, trusting yourself, self-empowerment, unfiltered actions.

Things that remind me of Ashwini: bees, the sun, horses, two white horses, golden deserts, horses gallopping, honey, long hair flying in the wind, apples.

Bharani:

Love, death, sex, the female, the feminine, limitations, the material, fate, destiny, coming into the body, struggling against limitations, struggling against fate, mind trapped in its own hell because of the inevitable, dealing with the harshness of life, harshness of mothers and mother nature, the hierarchy, privileges and deprivations, desire, going after your true desire, the immortality of the soul, adapting to changes, passion, tragic love, bravery, facing the truth, choicelessness, nessecity, revenge, violence, gatekeeping, reduction, denial of access, conquering your fate, everlasting beauty, immortality, eternal love.

Things that remind me of Bharani: hot pink and black, darkness, roses, the yoni, gateways, keyholes, caverns, boats, rivers, the damsel in distress, fantasy, high fantasy.

Krittika:

Adam, the main character, naming things, language, rationality, precision, sharpness, criticism, the poet, the "it" person, simplicity, cleanliness, expressing oneself, selectivity, the heat, the knowledge, the light, masculine ideals, stoicism.

Things that remind me of Krittika: knives, razors, lighers, sparks, fire, hearth, cooking.

Rohini:

Eve, sugar babies, growth, receptivity, enjoyment, pleasure, unrefined, doted on, subconcious, absorbtion, sharing, union, creation, the youngest daughter, naivete, feeling no shame.

Things that remind me of Rohini: sugar, stickiness, sweetness, heaviness, red, pink, flowers, the A.I(lol).

Mrigashira:

Distraction, realization, fickleness, adventure, running away, chasing, the hunt, excitement, softness, pleasure, altering conciousness, magic substances(iykwim), curiosity, fulfillment, insatiability, teasing.

Things that remind me of Mrigashira: silver threads, deer, green forests, green and blue, running in the woods, alcohol, the moon, Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream".

Ardra:

Disillusion, crying, lamenting, awareness of others, awarness of other's expectations, hyper-awarness of everything, intellect, the rational mind, pressures from society, rebelling against society, anxiety, hunting.

Things that remind me of Ardra: tears, water, storms, technology, teenage angst, emo culture, the rain, sad songs, dogs.

Punarvasu:

Mercy, forgiveness, permission, freedom, flying, expansion, gentleness, regrowing, realigning, returning, home, unconditional love and nurture, celebration, peace, peacefulness, centering oneself, sunlight, warmth, fostering, taking care, being taken care of, luck, unlimited fertile space, shelter, genuine kindness, believing in humanity again, cycles, patterns, seeing the cycles and the patterns, prophecies, the oracle, openness, second (and third, fouth...) chances, a comeback.

Things that remind me of Punarvasu: staying at home, pets, plants, cats, gentle rain, a bow and arrows, a target.

Pushya:

Asceticism, routines, self-restraint, servitude, control, self-control, working, working on yourself, patience, simplicity, striving for perfection, nurturing, nourishment, quiet ambition, symmetry.

Things that remind me of Pushya: milk, milkmaids, country life, milking, symmetry, goats, sheep, agriculture.

Ashlesha:

Manipulation, abuse, poison, emotional abuse, blackmail, resorting to everything for safety, protection, pent up energy, the nervous system, purity, water, sensitivity, cleanliness, energetic build-up, tension, restraint, preservation, self-preservation, virginity, feminine tactics, being "mean" for protection, lying for safety, sensuality, mother issues, agitation.

Things that remind me of Ashlesha: the color white, transparent things, cats, poisoning, snow white, Sofia Coppola films, teenage girlhood, ties, strings, knots, snakes.

Magha:

Royalty, power, ancestry, family trees, history, the past, regality, honoring the past, honoring the elders, honoring the authority, religion, tradition, customs, confidence, ego.

Things that remind me of Magha: crowns, thrones, churches, goth culture, smoke, big hair(like the lion's mane).

Purva Phalguni:

Pleasure, enjoyment, being spoiled as the feminine, loving to spoil as the masculine, procreation, sex, leisure, art, holidays, parties, exclusivity, pride, charisma, sexual dispersion, love as a method of self-expression, admiration, directness, active pursuit of your passions, indulgence.

Things that remind me of Purva Phalguni: fruits, eating fruits topless, rose gold color, the "rizz"(lol), the phallus, dramaticism.

Uttara Phalguni:

Favors from friends, family and partners, contracts, beneficial agreements, the perfect wife, likeability, popularity, friendliness, appearing cool, stoicism, beneficial arrangements, gain through partnerships, self-expression through relationships, wife/girlrfiend material, harvest, family associations, marriage associations.

Things that remind me of Uttara Phalguni: the "chads", simplicity, genuine friends, loyal companions, family business, the perfect male stereotype, the "rich heiress running away" trope, wheat, gold, power couples.

Hasta:

The earth, the veiled feminine, manipulation, denial of access, materialism, cheating, everyday matters, empowerment of women, deception, skill, seeking knowledge, wanting to be in control, activism, street-smarts, manipulation of masses.

Things that remind me of Hasta: the hand, Goddess Persephone, skilled hands, thieves, easy money, fairies, witches, scammers.

Chitra:

Crafting, building, perspective, truth, law, gems, sacrifice for your craft, vanity, stereotypes, aesthetics, the truth in stereotypes, building based on the law and the truth, the surface of things, the appearance of things, the substance reflected in the vessel, gossip, cliques, tricks.

Things that remind me of Chitra: the god Hephestos, martian gods in general, jewelry, fashion, make-up, drama, pettiness, the coquette aesthetic, pranksters, Olivia Rodrigo(ig).

Swati:

Space, the cosmos, shifting realities, love, rebellion, alternate realities, possibilities, seeing beauty in everything, inspiration, art, the cosmic egg, creation of the world, creation of worlds, microcosm and macrocosm, freedom through love.

Things that remind me of Swati: video games, the wind, plants beggining to sprout, the sword, technology, the Sims.

Vishakha:

The lightning, snapping, splitting, joining opposites, compromise, marriage, repressed anger, repressed aggression, alter egos, passion, enthusiasm, standing up for yourself and others, repression and then expression, energy, love and hate.

Things that remind me of Vishakha: lighning bolts, Zeus, Thor and other lighning gods, superhero "Shazam", celebrations.

Anuradha:

Friendship, devotion, depth, loyalty, unconditional loyalty, bonds, the occult, sex with love, numbers, gatherings, friend groups, groups, gentleness, humbleness, discipline, seriousness, organizing society, social groups.

Things that remind me of Anuradha: the color burgundy, dim lights, bunnies, "Sex Education" (tv show), sci-fi (for some reason), "The Vampire Diaries" (and very similar teen shows), frat boys, cheerleaders.

Jyeshta:

The battlefield, war, hunger, thirst, insatiability, conquering, the underdog, street-smarts, competition, strategy, extreme independence, mind games, the art of war, survival, ruling, rising above, self-reliance, wisdom, becoming the authority, the eldest, dryness, trust issues, enemies, destroying enemies, outsmarting all enemies.

Things that remind me of Jyeshta: grandmothers, owls, eagles, dry places, flags, marching, chess.

Mula:

Horror, the abnormal, the truth, the core, the center, the absorbing darkness, the black hole, the roots, violence against falsehoods, seeking the truth, seeking the cause, seeking roots, uprooting, chaos, from chaos to order, the unchanging truth, taming beasts, holding to your truth.

Things that remind me of Mula: "Phanton of the Opera", "Twilight", final girls, horror movies, dark murky green, the wilderness.

Purva Ashadha:

Art, beauty, alliances, artistry, ideals, fighting for the ideal, discrimination, exclusivity, philosophies about beauty and art, passion for love and art, attachments, secrecy, luxury, vitality, vigor, going for victory.

Things that remind me of Purva Ashadha: the sea, seafoam, goddess Aphrodite, seashells, mermaids, sirens, fans (the ones you hold in your hand lol), Arwen from LotR.

Uttara Ashadha:

Victory, loneliness, individuality, government, empowerment, independence, being looked up to, composed self-expression, ease, simplicity but regality, confidence, self-assuredness, melancholy and hardships of aloneness but contentment, stoicism, invincibility, unapologetic behavior.

Things that remind me of Uttara Ashadha: earnest people, goddess Nike, mint color for some reason.

Shravana:

Connecting everything, secret knowledge, interest in everything, reading between the lines, subconcious access, extreme sensitivity, holding the humanity together, secret agencies, percieving what others can't percieve, saving humanity, navigating, receptivity, mysticism.

Things that remind me of Shravana: Superman, Geralt of Rivia, Aragorn, King arthur, pathways, footprints, ear, color blue, spies, astrology, outcasts, fringe societies.

Dhanishta:

Celebration, celebrities, fame, visibility, aggression, agitation, action, bringing people together, idols, propaganda, wealth from fame, that which attracts attention, public image, benefits and downsides of fame, openness and flashiness, branding, movement.

Things that remind me of Dhanishta: supermodels, Princess Diana, dancing, rhythmic drums.

Shatabhisha:

Complexities, seeing everything, lurking in shadows, holding the knowledge, secrets, secrecy, hiding, technology, innovation, being ahead of your time, advising but manipulating, society, the collective, trends, the conciousness of masses, propaganda.

Things that remind me of Shatabhisha: midnight sky, stars, the seas, water reservoirs, the circle, the all-seeing eye of Sauron(lol), Lord of the Rings, rings, the movie "Stardust" (the book too), the evil advisor/black cardinal trope.

Purva Bhadrapada:

Notoriety, expansion, uncontrolled expansion, persmissiveness, growth to ruin unless restrained, fighting for your soul, the scapegoat, going against society, getting tested, the point of no return.

Things that remind me of Purva Bhadrapada: gangs, famous criminals, laziness, femme fatales, the grotesque, deserts, werewolves, the black sheep.

Uttara Bhadrapada:

Finding grace, hardships, working, inner strength, steeliness, resilience, patience, restraint, contol, self-restraint and self-control, bravery, honesty, stubbornness, fighting for your truth, perfect control, freedom through limitations, seeking a permanent foundation built on truth, working for the foundation, long-term goals, innocence, purity of soul, stillness, refinement, honor and glory.

Things that remind me of Uttara Bhadrapada: butterflies, clouds, baby blue color, Cinderella, warriors, knights, knight orders, ice, coldness, queens, ice-queen, dragons, water dragons, deep waters, deep sea and its creatures, wings.

Revati:

Ultimate freedom, creativity, wisdom, gentleness, compassion, guiding, herding, fun, laughter, mischief, lightnness, ease, finding peace, reaching the end, enjoying what you have, contentment, nurturing, open-mindedness, conclusions, gratefulness, freedom and free will, having choices, diversity, finding the truth, true wealth, parenthood, the guide, guidance, individuation.

Things that remind me of Revati: shepherds, herding, everything easy and light, the tricksters, the fool, jokes, Loki, The Joker, fish, comedy, the movie "A Fish Called Wanda", caring for everyone and everything, light and soft shades of green and blue.

[furioussheepluminary]

𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐭 𝐈𝐧 𝐌𝐲 𝐋𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐬

Pairing: merman!hyunjin x marinespecialist!afab!reader, fantasy au

Synopsis: meeting a merman at work wasn't on the schedule. neither was having feelings.

Warnings: gore a teeny bit, fantasy fluff, strange sounds and feelings, language barrier, confused feelings, innocent curiosity

A/n: inspired by @ssickmagnolia8's losing my breath for you. If you have extra eyes for errors no you don't . I tried so hard to get out of my writers block 😭 I barely have inspo but my drafts are crazy full 😭

You weren’t raised on fairy tales. You were raised on currents. Your father was a sailor, your mother a coastal ecologist, and the ocean was their god. Family vacations were tidepool cataloging. Bedtime stories were legends about deep-sea creatures that mimicked men but weren’t. But you didn’t believe in monsters—not really. You believed in data. Pressure changes. Temperature shifts. Migration patterns. At seventeen, you watched your mother drown. Not in a storm. Not in a dramatic, cinematic scene. No. Your mother simply walked into the tide, arms wide, eyes blank, whispering something only the water could hear. Her body was never found.

You never went near the shore for five years.

But obsession is the child of grief.

You became a specialist in acoustic telemetry, tracking marine life through sound and signal. You hunted the sea with sonar instead of boats. Your reports were clinical. Clean. Controlled

Still, you pushed forward. You had a name to clear, a memory to honor, and a gut feeling you couldn’t shake. Something was wrong with the ocean.

The SS Kismet was a research vessel outfitted for deep-sea tracking, manned by six specialists and one quietly fraying you. The day was standard. The sun overhead bleached the deck white, waves slapped rhythmically against the hull, and the equipment hummed with numbers and graphs. you stood near the stern, notebook in hand, listening to the low-frequency pings returning from their latest scan.

“Same patterns as last week,” murmured Aaron, the lead sonar tech. “Migration normal. No anomalies.”

You didn’t respond. Her eyes flicked to the live display:

Depth: 145 meters. Movement: Moderate. Bio-signature: 3.4

Everything made sense. That was the problem.

The sea was too quiet. After five hours, the crew packed up. Equipment retracted, samples secured, reports logged. The boat turned back toward shore under a rose-gold sky, and conversation rose around you—light, casual. But you stayed at the edge of the boat, watching the way the water seemed to stretch too long. Like it was holding its breath. They docked by sunset. Seagulls screamed over the marina. Lights from the harbor winked like tired eyes. The others disembarked, laughing, boots hitting wet wood. You trailed behind them… until she saw it.

Far off. Barely visible in the waning light. Something was moving. Not in the water, from the shore. It was tall. Human-shaped, but too fluid. Staggering like its bones didn’t fit right. Its skin—if it had skin—glinted wet like oil on pavement. It moved into the surf, slow and steady. Not fighting the pull. Letting the sea take it back.

You squinted. No one else noticed. You opened your mouth to speak, but your throat clenched. Because the thing paused.

And turned.

And though it had no eyes you could see, you felt it look at you. Right at you.

Your voice cracked in the thick evening air as you called out, “Guys? Hey—HEY!”

But your words dissolved into the wind, carried off with the laughter of the team now too far along the dock. Their boots were on asphalt. Yours were still on splintered planks. Alone.

You cursed under your breath. The figure had disappeared into the surf, but her gut twisted with the knowledge, it was still there. Half-lost in the tide, half-drenched in something darker. Not seaweed. Not shadow. Blood.

Your hand slipped into your gear pouch, fingers wrapping tightly around the hilt of a folding blade. Not large. Not elegant. Just sharp enough to buy you three seconds if things went wrong. And something told you they were about to. The dock faded behind you as you stepped off onto the wet sand, shoes sinking slightly. The air was cooler down here, closer to the sea’s breath. You moved carefully, knees bent, eyes squinting into the low mist as the tide rolled in slow and deliberate like it was trying to lull you.

Then you saw it. He was collapsed at the edge where sea met sand, half-submerged, slumped like a dying god. Not a man. Not entirely.

His body was long, too long. From the waist up, he looked almost human—shoulders broad, chest marked with faint violet ridges that pulsed softly, like gills. His skin was damp, luminous, stretched over lean muscle and speckled with gashes, torn open by jagged coral or perhaps claws of his own kind. But from the waist down…a tail. Not cartoonish or shiny. This was monstrous beauty. Deep, obsidian-blue scales etched with silver patterns like ancient runes. Fins like torn silk fluttered weakly at the edge, trembling with effort. Blood—dark, almost black—pooled beneath him in the sand and hissed quietly when it touched saltwater.

His hair was soaked and tangled, clinging to his sharp cheekbones, framing a face too sculpted to be human. Ethereal. High-boned. Lips split at the corner. Eyes—

Oh God, his eyes. They snapped open at your approach.

Sharp. Slit pupils. The color of storm-lit seawater green and grey and gold all at once.

And then he hissed. Low. Defensive. His lips peeled back just enough to show teeth—sharp, serrated like a predator’s.

You froze, raising your free hand. “Hey—hey, it’s okay. I’m not gonna hurt you.”

But he didn’t understand. Or didn’t care. His arms pushed against the wet sand, trying to lift himself. A growl reverberated deep in his chest as he whipped his tail, sending a spray of water across your face. The movement tore open a gash along his hip, he let out a strained cry, somewhere between rage and agony, before collapsing back with a choked gasp.

You stepped forward instinctively, breath shallow.

He was shaking. Drenched. Wild. And yet… vulnerable. This was no sea monster.

This was someone. And he was dying. Your heart hammered as you stepped closer, sand slipping under your boots. Your hands were up—one still holding the small knife, the other palm-out, slow, nonthreatening.

“I’m not gonna hurt you,” you whispered, voice thick with breath. “You’re hurt. I—I can help.”

But he didn’t understand your words. He only saw movement. A human form. Something closer. With a feral grunt, the merman twisted, shoulder muscles flaring, tail slapping the sand in a weak arc. He tried to crawl back toward the surf instinct pulling him to the safety of the ocean, of away. But pain lanced through him again. His shoulder gave out. One of the wounds split wider, the dark ichor spilling fresh and hot.

He cried out, low and guttural, collapsing again with a strangled wince.

You flinched but didn’t move away. Her pulse skipped, but your feet stayed rooted.

You dropped to your knees a few feet from him and carefully pulled your field pack open. Out came a fabric square, military-grade wound wrap, waterproof and heat-reactive. Not exactly meant for mythological sea creatures, but she had to try.

You slid forward. Close enough now to hear the rough sound of his breath—shaky and uneven. “I’m going to touch you now,” she murmured, voice trembling. “Please don’t—don’t freak out.”

He snarled again, a rumble in his throat, but it wasn’t as sharp. More confused than aggressive now. He tracked every movement of your hand with those uncanny eyes. You leaned in, breath soft, and gently pressed the wrap to the gash along his ribs. His skin twitched beneath her touch warm, slick, and… not completely alien. The scales shimmered faintly beneath your fingertips, flexing and fluttering as if responding to her. He hissed again, low and tight. Not from anger this time from pain. But he didn’t strike. Didn’t move away.

The bandage clung instantly, sealed by body heat. You pulled another out and looked at him.

“I can help with the rest,” she said softly, holding the next strip up. “If you let me. If you can… I don’t know, trust me?”

He blinked. Slow. The growling had stopped. His eyes scanned your face, lingered on your lips, your eyes like he was trying to read something in you, some language you weren’t speaking. He shifted, inching forward on trembling arms. His head dipped slightly. One of his fins curled inward. And then—quietly, hesitantly—he leaned toward you.

You sucked in a breath as he drew closer, breath brushing your cheek, cool and wet like fog. His tail slid across the sand with a soft drag. He was allowing it now. Allowing you. His body gave the answer his voice couldn’t. You moved gently, methodically, patching another wound on his side, then his forearm. The gashes were bad—too deep for you to handle on a beach. He needed more. He needed help. But he was still looking at you.

And not like you were a threat anymore. You sat back on your heels, hands trembling just slightly from the cold, the adrenaline, the impossibility of what you was seeing. You’d patched him up best you could with what you had, but they couldn’t stay here. Someone would find them. Your team would come looking. And he… he couldn’t defend himself like this.

You looked down at him, where he was half-curled in the sand. Still bleeding. Breathing hard. “Can you walk?” she muttered aloud, half to herself, her voice barely above the hush of the waves behind them.

You realized how stupid it sounded the second it left your mouth—he had a tail, not legs.

But still, she made the motion with her fingers, as if puppeteering invisible legs. A silly little walking gesture, the way you’d signal to a child. To your absolute disbelief, his eyes followed the motion. His brows furrowed in that elegant, ocean-slick face. He looked at his own tail. Looked at your. Then—

He began to shift.

Slow at first. Painfully. The sound that came from his throat was low and rough, like gravel pulled by the tide. But his body began to change. The fin that had glimmered like black opal under moonlight began to split, crackling, warping, folding in on itself like liquid glass folding into clay. The deep iridescent scales retreated, melting away like dew drying off skin. His tail was gone. In its place: long, pale legs, scarred and sleek. Powerful thighs. Knees bent awkwardly as if unfamiliar. The bruises from earlier still colored his skin. Salt and blood clung to him in places no human anatomy textbook could prepare you for.

Your lips parted, jaw slack. “What the actual—”

He looked up at you, panting. Exhausted. On his hands and knees now, shivering in the wind and the wetness, completely bare and utterly other. But also… human. Or something achingly close. You stumbled to your feet, ditching the knife completely now, and bent to hook an arm under his. “Okay, alright. Come on. I’ve got you.”

He flinched as their skin touched, his reflexes still caught between fight or flight. But this time, he didn’t pull away. He let you help him.

You pulled his arm over your shoulder, feeling the sharp weight of him, every muscle trembling under the strain of transformation. His wet skin pressed against your clothes, soaking through instantly. He leaned heavily on you, and she tightened your grip, breath hitching as he groaned again. They stumbled together across the beach, two shadows limping toward the faint lights of the Marine Center in the distance. You  kept your head low, whispering reassurances under your breath, some for him, most for yourself.

“Just a little further, okay? We’re almost there. You’re doing good… god, you’re doing so good.”

You used the back entrance of the Center—you’d done it a hundred times for late data drops, but never with a naked injured merman draped over you like seaweed.

Somehow—by divine panic and dumb luck—they made it across the dark, tiled hallway, up a flight of stairs, and into your tiny staff dorm tucked behind the labs. You kicked the door shut behind them and locked it in one motion.

Inside: warm, quiet, safe.

You turned to him. He was half-collapsed against your twin bed, blinking slowly, skin clammy, lips slightly parted in pain and confusion. So much humanity in his expression. So much… fear. You swallowed hard and dropped beside him.

“I don’t know what the hell you are,” you whispered, brushing hair—still wet, still tangled with seaweed and blood—out of his eyes. “But I’ve got you now.”

You moved quickly now, your brain scrambling to shift from shock to survival mode. You rummaged through the spare shelf under your bed and yanked out a clean, fluffy gray blanket—one you usually used for late night writing sessions or curling up with ocean current charts. Not for covering up the naked sea man bleeding out in your room. You turned back to him, and he was watching you. Dazed. Alert, somehow, but like he was in a completely foreign world his body shivering, his mouth slightly parted, hair clinging to his cheek in stringy wet ribbons.

“Okay,” you breathed, kneeling down. “I’m not gonna look. Promise. Just—just let me…”

You draped the blanket over his hips carefully, gently, shielding his body from view. He flinched at the sudden warmth, but didn’t stop you. His eyes stayed locked to yours.

God. He was beautiful in the kind of way nightmares made you want to stay asleep. His features sharp, yet soft where it mattered, scars across his chest, jaw taut, lashes too dark for someone that alien. That injured. You turned away for a second and grabbed your first aid kit from your bottom drawer. The click of the latch opening echoed like a scream in the quiet room. You pulled out antiseptic, gauze, butterfly stitches, and waterproof medical tape.

“Okay, okay…” you whispered, settling beside him again. your hands hovered over his ribs, hesitant. “You’re not gonna hiss at me again, right?”

His eyes narrowed slightly. You smiled nervously. “Yeah, I didn’t think you understood that.”

Still, you took the silence as permission and began cleaning one of the slashes along his side. He tensed immediately, but didn’t strike or pull back. Just let out a low, shaky sound somewhere between a growl and a breath. His muscles tightened under your fingers.

“Sorry. I know. This probably stings.” He made a small noise in reply. It wasn’t a word, but it wasn’t nothing either. It sounded like… acknowledgment. Like he was trying to echo your tone, mirror her comfort.

“That’s right, okay…” she murmured. “You’ve got  a bit of sea glass in here. Jesus, what happened to you?”

No answer. But the way his fingers curled into the edge of the blanket made you think—something bad. Something he couldn’t explain. Or didn’t want to.

“You’re not from here, are you?” you whispered. “God, what am I even asking… Of course you’re not.”

Again, he didn’t respond. But he watched you. With that eerie intensity. You moved to his arm next, patching a shallow puncture wound near his bicep. His skin was oddly soft under your hands. Like velvet soaked in sea salt. And warm. Too warm. “I don’t even know if this stuff works on you,” you muttered as you applied ointment and sealed the wound with gauze. “I mean, for all I know, you could be allergic to—”

Knock knock knock.

You froze.

Three crisp knocks. Familiar. Then a voice.

“Y/N? You in there?” Her heart dropped into her stomach.

It was Maya—from the marine lab downstairs. Always checking in. Always conveniently around when you didn’t want to be disturbed. You turned sharply to the merman and whispered, “Stay quiet. Please, just—don’t move.”

He blinked slowly. Stayed perfectly still.

“Yeah!” you called, scrambling to her feet, trying to sound normal. You stepped toward the door, heart slamming in your chest. “I’m just—uh—getting ready to crash. What’s up?” Maya’s voice was muffled through the wood. “You alright? I didn’t see you with the others after landing. We were gonna go over sonar readings in the morning but—if something’s up—”

“No! No, I’m good,” you replied, too fast. Too bright. “Just tired. You know how the sea gets to me.”

A beat. Then, “Alright. You sure?” You looked over your shoulder. The merman’s eyes were on you. Unmoving. But… calm.

“I’m sure,” you said, softer this time. Another pause. Then footsteps retreating.

You exhaled all at once, sagging against the door. You turned back to him, letting your back slide down the wood until you were sitting again. His head tilted slightly at you, like he understood everything and nothing all at once.

“Okay,” you whispered. “You just became my biggest secret.”

The antiseptic sting was nearly done now—just a few more cleaned cuts and sealed bruises. You moved with careful hands, your breath soft and slow as you finished wrapping a particularly deep laceration just under his collarbone. The moment felt still. Thick. Like the air around them had pressed pause to let something ancient slip in between.

You gently pressed the last bit of gauze in place, smoothing it down with your palm.

“You’re not bleeding anymore,” you murmured. “That’s a start.”

Your eyes flicked up to meet his. He was staring. No—focused. Brow furrowed, mouth slightly parted. Not in confusion… in concentration.

“Are you—are you okay?” you asked, softly. “Does anything still hurt?” His lips moved. Just a little. Then again. She paused.

“Wait… did you—did you say something?”

He did it again. This time, slower. And then—barely audible—a whisper, rough like gravel washed up on shore:

“…Hyun…jin…”

You blinked. Your heart skipped.

“You—your name?” you whispered, eyes wide. “Is that your name?”

He gave a weak nod, eyes fluttering as if even that had drained him. “Hyunjin…” she repeated softly, like it was a sacred word. “That’s beautiful. Well, mine’s Y/N.”

His mouth twitched—something like a smirk, but more like relief. Then he tried again, speaking low, gravelly, the syllables pulling against his throat like he wasn’t used to forming them.

“I… learn…”

You leaned in instinctively, every hair on her arm standing on end. Your lips parted, disbelief creasing her brows.

“…your… speak. Lips. Words.”

You sat up a little straighter, realization blooming in your chest like heat. “You’re reading my lips,” you breathed. “You’re trying to talk like me…”

He nodded again. Slow. Exhausted. But committed.

“Oh my god,” you whispered, scrambling to the side table for your small, water-stained notebook and a pencil. You scribbled something down quickly, mouthing the word as you wrote it. “That’s… that’s incredible. You’ve been watching how I talk and trying to mimic it—do you know how hard that is?”

Hyunjin blinked. His shoulders rose and fell, barely able to shrug—but his gaze never left yours. You set the book down and looked back at him, your voice gentler now.

“Can you tell me what happened to you?”

He blinked. Then glanced toward the floor like he was searching for a word buried in the shadows.

“…dark…” he rasped.

You leaned in, eyes flicking across his lips, helping him find the rest. “Dark?” she echoed. “You were… somewhere dark?”

He nodded. Struggled.

“Chains,” he whispered next, the word thick and ugly in his mouth. “Hurt. Hunt. Run…” Your stomach dropped. The pencil in her hand went still.

“They hunted you?”

His eyes darkened. He nodded once. The memory laced with something almost feral, something wild and buried.You placed a hand on your notebook, the other gently touching his arm.

“I won’t let them find you again,” she said. Firm. Soft, but sure. “You’re safe here, okay? I promise.”

He stared at her. And this time, something deep in his chest shifted. His head tilted forward slightly.

---

The rain had started again—soft, misty, tapping against the dorm window like fingers too shy to knock. You set your kit aside, tucking bandage scraps back into their place, then wiped your hands on the towel draped across her lap. Hyunjin sat propped against the bedframe, now cloaked in the oversized blanket you’d given him earlier, the dark fabric falling over his lap and down his hips, obscuring the freshly formed legs that still trembled when he moved them too quickly.

“You must be starving,” you said, more to yourself than to him as you stood and stretched your arms above your head.

“No.”

You paused. Turned slowly to him, brows slightly raised. He had spoken clearly. Not perfectly. The edges of the word still had a rawness to them, a beginner’s sharpness. But it was unmistakable.

“No?” you repeated, a smile tugging at your lips.

He shook his head, still watching you.

“Okay…” you murmured, moving toward your desk. “I’ll eat something myself, then. You sure you don’t want something? Just a snack? Fish—oh. That might be offensive.”

He didn’t laugh. But you caught the subtle twitch at the corner of his mouth. You opened a granola bar instead, taking a quiet bite while flipping through your research journal. But even as you tried to distract yourself with the scribbled notes and observations from that morning’s dive, you felt him watching.

Your gaze slowly lifted. Hyunjin hadn’t moved. Not even a blink. He was staring. Unapologetically. Eyes fixed on you like you were the only real thing in the room. The only solid thread holding him above water. You cleared your throat and looked back down at the pages, pretending not to notice the burn of his gaze.

You turned a page. He was still staring. You tried adjusting the chair. Shifted your posture. Took another bite. Still. Eyes on you.

“I can feel you watching me, you know,” you muttered, not unkindly. You glanced up again. “Why do you keep looking at me like that?” Hyunjin tilted his head slightly. Like he didn’t understand the question. Like that wasn’t unusual.

You leaned forward on your elbows, eyes narrowing slightly, but your smile stayed.

“I’m not that interesting,” you teased. He nodded.

You blinked. “Wait. You’re saying I am that interesting?” Another slow nod.

And still—his gaze didn’t falter. You bit the inside of her cheek, cheeks heating. “You really are learning fast.”

Hyunjin’s eyes softened a little. As if your amusement pleased him. As if your presence, chaotic and human as it was, brought something to his chest that hurt a little less. You sighed, shutting your notebook and setting it aside. You stood and walked slowly over to him.

He straightened—just slightly. Still weak. Still wrapped in layers of pain. But attentive. You sat at the edge of the bed, cross-legged, and faced him.

“You don’t have to keep staring like I’m going to disappear,” you said quietly. “I’m not.”

He didn’t answer. But the way his eyes dropped—for a moment—to her hands resting in your lap… then slowly lifted back to meet yours…

It said everything.

The room had settled into a gentle quiet. The rain outside had softened to a drizzle, a constant hush against the glass. The kind of lull that made time feel slower, suspended in a fragile bubble of calm. You stood, brushing invisible lint off her shirt before turning to face Hyunjin. “I’m gonna take a quick shower,” you said, half-expecting no reply. “Don’t touch anything. I mean it. Don’t go poking around or—” you paused, narrowing her eyes, “—biting my electronics.”

Hyunjin blinked up at you from where he sat on the bed, cocooned in the blanket like it was part of him now. His lips moved, just a little—mimicking the shape of your words. But he didn’t speak. You smiled, gave him a little nod, then grabbed your towel, clean clothes, and a small caddy of products before disappearing into the bathroom. The door shut with a click. The soft shuffle of clothing followed, then the metallic hiss of the shower turning on.

At first, Hyunjin did nothing. Just sat there.

But… the sound of the water. The echo of your voice still lingering. The delicate scent of her body wash in the air. It was unfamiliar… intoxicating. And more than anything, his curiosity was gnawing at him. Was she… cleansing her scales?

Like he did in the moonpools beneath the reef?

He shifted his legs off the bed—still new, still foreign. They trembled under his weight, but he managed to stand. A soft grunt left him as he staggered toward the bathroom, one hand trailing along the wall for balance. The floor was cold against his soles. Each step felt uncertain.

He reached the door. Didn’t knock.

Didn’t even think to. The door wasn’t fully shut. Just barely ajar. Enough for him to press a hand against the wood and nudge it open silently. Steam rushed out instantly, curling like seafoam around his feet. The air was thick with warmth and lavender. His dark eyes flicked upward.

And there you were. Silhouetted through the fogged glass of the shower.

Water traced down the length of her body—rivulets running along her shoulders, down her back, catching the curves of her waist. Her hair clung to her skin, dripping. Her skin glowed under the bathroom light, radiant, almost otherworldly.

Hyunjin's breath caught. His heart thudded.

She… she didn’t have scales.

Not visibly.

But your skin—it shimmered slightly in the heat, smooth like moon-polished shells. Unmarked. Unnatural in the way it tugged at something deep in him. Your limbs, the way you moved, the grace—

He wondered, foolishly, if you were like him. A creature hiding among humans. Then you turned. You reached for a small bottle, arm extending, her gaze shifting—right into his. They locked eyes.

Everything froze. Your expression contorted in a split second from relaxed to horrified.

“JESUS—HYUNJIN!”

You fumbled for the shower door, practically slipping in place. “GET OUT!” you shouted, voice bouncing off the tile walls, echoing in his ears. Hyunjin’s eyes widened like he’d just been caught stealing a royal treasure. His cheeks flushed a violent red—deep, warm, crawling all the way to his ears.

“Sorry—sorry—!” he blurted in a mangled rush of syllables, then staggered back, nearly tripping on his own feet as he yanked the door shut behind him.

Thud. A beat of silence. Then the sound of water slapping tile resumed.

Hyunjin stumbled backward into the room, hands clutched over his face. He fell onto the bed like a sack of kelp, groaning softly, curling into himself beneath the blanket.

His heart wouldn’t slow down. You looked like a sea spirit. A siren. A goddess. He buried his face into the pillow and whispered to himself in broken syllables, “She’s not… mermaid? But… so… shining…”

He wasn’t sure what he’d just done. But he was absolutely sure he would never be able to look you in the eyes again without drowning in heat.

The door creaked open slowly, steam billowing out like a slow exhale from a sleeping giant.

You stepped out, wrapped in a thick towel, your damp hair clinging to your shoulders, droplets tracing the slope of your collarbone. You clutched your clothes to your chest with one hand and rubbed the towel dry against your temple with the other. Your skin was flushed from the heat of the water—and maybe a little from what just happened.

Hyunjin was sitting on the bed, perfectly still, legs crossed beneath the blanket like a chastised child. His gaze was fixed firmly on the floor, ears beet-red, and his fingers fidgeted with the fabric on his lap.

You raised a brow, then—softened. You tried to keep your expression firm, tried to muster the energy to be mad, but the sheer look of guilt on his face, the nervous way he sat there like a drenched cat in trouble, made your laugh.

“Well,” you said as you padded closer, “if you were trying to sneak up on a woman—you failed miserably.”

Hyunjin’s eyes widened. He scrambled to shake his head, hands waving in front of him in frantic denial. “No! No sneak—I was… just… see? Curiosity!” His voice was breathy, each syllable clumsy but earnest, like he was still tasting every word for the first time. You tilted your head and crossed her arms. “Right. Curiosity. Sure.” You couldn’t help the smirk curling at your lips. “That what you say to all the girls you spy on in the shower?”

“I didn’t know you were…” Hyunjin gestured wildly at your towel, his cheeks darkening again. “No fins. No… shell armor. Just skin. I think—maybe you were like me.”

You blinked. “You thought I was a mermaid?”

He nodded shyly.

You let out a laugh then light, amused, the tension in your shoulders slipping away. “God. You’re a disaster,” you muttered fondly. “But I get it. You’re new to… all this. Just—next time maybe knock? Or don’t open the door to the sound of running water?”

“Okay,” Hyunjin whispered. Then, with a bit more strength, “Okay. No door. Knock. First.”

“Good,” she smiled, grabbing a long shirt from her dresser and slipping into it over the towel with your back turned. “Now get some rest. You’ve been through a lot, and your wounds are still fresh. You need sleep.”

You turned around again, drying your hair with the towel. That’s when he said it. Softly. Like it had been resting on the edge of his tongue the whole time, unsure whether it should be spoken.

“Beautiful.”

You paused mid-pat. Your arms dropped slightly.

You looked at him.

His head was tilted, his long hair falling across his cheek, still slightly damp. His lips were parted just enough to prove he’d said it on purpose. And those dark, wide eyes still locked on her like you were the most fascinating creature in the entire world.

“I’m… sorry?” you said, a little thrown off her rhythm.

He straightened up a bit, the blanket slipping down his chest. “You are,” he said again, slower this time. “Beautiful.”

There was no stutter. No nervousness. Just sincerity. Your heart did a little stumble in your chest. You blinked again, unsure if you should laugh, thank him, or hide.

“…That’s probably the first compliment I’ve ever gotten from someone who tried to break into my shower.”

Hyunjin’s brows furrowed. “Break?” You giggled and waved it off. “Nothing. It’s nothing.”

A beat passed. “You’re not too bad yourself,” you muttered under your breath, more to yourself than to him. But he heard it. And the shy smile that tugged at his lips was brighter than anything you’d seen him wear so far.

“Sleep, merboy,” you said, grabbing a blanket to toss over him. “You’re gonna need all your strength tomorrow.”

He nodded, but his eyes stayed on you just a moment longer before they fluttered shut—content, safe, and still trying to memorize the shape of you.

The soft click of your pen was the only sound filling the room now. You sat at your desk beneath the glow of your small reading lamp, scribbling into your worn leather-bound logbook. Your handwriting flowed like gentle waves as you recounted everything: the field report from earlier that day, the strange movement you’d seen on the shore, and most of all—the merman.

You paused, eyes flicking toward the bed where Hyunjin lay now, blanket pulled loosely around his waist, his breathing deep and even. The soft rise and fall of his chest, the way his fingers curled slightly near his face—it all looked so… human. But you’d seen his tail. You’d seen the shimmer of his scales and the way pain bent his body like a broken current.

He wasn’t human. But somehow, he didn’t feel entirely otherworldly either.

You sighed, placing your pen down and closing the log gently with a satisfying thud. You stared at the bed again, then made your quiet decision.

You grabbed a spare pillow and a folded fleece blanket from the closet, spread it out on the floor beside the bed, and slid down into the makeshift sleeping space. It wasn’t the most comfortable, but you didn’t care. He needed the bed more than you did. And somehow, you liked the idea of being close. Close enough to keep watch.

Sleep took you slowly, like the tide, and you drifted off with the faint sound of the ocean still playing in your head.

---

A loud, unfamiliar clink stirred you awake.

Then another—followed by a slosh. Your brows furrowed, lashes fluttering as you pushed the blanket off your face. The light pouring in from the window told you it was early. But something else reminded you you weren’t alone in the room.

Splash.

Y/N sat up immediately. And then blinked.

“…Hyunjin?”

Your voice was rough with sleep, but the sight before you yanked you into full alertness.

The door to your small bathroom was wide open. Inside, the floor was gleaming with droplets, like a trail of spilled moonlight. And in the middle of your bathtub—full, nearly overflowing with water—sat Hyunjin. He was half-submerged, his elbows propped on the edge of the tub, chin resting on his forearm like a lounging sea prince. His hair was wet again, slicked back to reveal his sharp cheekbones and curious gaze, which locked on yours the moment he heard your voice.

And trailing out of the bathtub—spilling onto the tile floor—was his tail.

It shimmered in the light, the scales shifting colors with every ripple of water: deep ocean blue, obsidian black, hints of silvery green. It flicked lazily now and then, the end curling like a question mark, his fin slightly translucent at the edges.

You stared, eyes wide.

“You… turned back?” you whispered, rising slowly to your feet. “How did you—?”

“I woke. Body… ache,” he said in his soft, careful voice. “Needed water.” He gestured to the bathtub with a small, proud smile. “Tub… good. Like sea. Not same. But… good.”

You looked around. He’d figured out the faucet. The floor was wet, sure—but not flooded. He’d used one of your measuring pitchers to balance the temperature—no idea how he got that down. And here he was. Tail out. Glowing like something carved by the sea gods.

Y/N ran a hand through your hair and groaned with a small laugh. “You… literal fish man. You really filled my tub with your sexy dolphin tail.”

He tilted his head. “Sexy… dolphin?”

“Never mind,” you chuckled, rubbing your temples. “Just—next time, ask. Or at least… splash quieter.”

Hyunjin’s laugh was soft but genuine, almost like bubbles rising to the surface.

“You’re lucky you’re cute,” you muttered, grabbing a towel to mop the floor. “Now we’re both going to smell like salt for the next two weeks.”

He watched you as you moved around, his smile warm. When you glanced back at him, his tail gave a little flick of contentment.

“Tub good,” he said again, like it was the highest compliment.

You shook your head, biting back a grin. “I’ll add that to my log. Merman approves of modern plumbing.”

The bathroom was thick with the scent of saltwater, warm mist curling lazily in the air as sunlight spilled through the cracked window. You stood at the threshold, arms folded loosely across your chest, watching the way Hyunjin’s tail stirred the bathwater like it was second nature.

He looked so at peace there. As if the bathtub, as absurdly small as it was, offered him a sliver of his world again—something familiar. Something that didn’t bleed pain.

You leaned your shoulder against the doorframe. “You look… better.”

Hyunjin opened one eye, gaze drifting up to your face. He blinked slowly, lips curling just slightly at the corners. “Water helps.”

You nodded, chewing on the inside of her cheek for a second. “Yeah, I figured.”

A pause settled. Not awkward—just thick with thought. You stepped closer and sat on the closed toilet lid, knees brushing the side of the tub. Your voice came quieter this time.

“Hyunjin…”

He tilted his head again, curious. “We have to figure out a way to get you back to the ocean.”

At first, there was no reaction.

Then, slowly, his shoulders tensed. The warm contentment in his gaze flickered, lips parting just slightly in confusion—or hesitation.

“I mean,” you rushed gently, “you can’t stay in my dorm forever. As much as I’m enjoying the company of a bathtub-dwelling sea prince, I don’t think my RA will approve.”

He gave a breath of a laugh, but it was hollow. He dropped his gaze to the water, scales catching in the light. For a long moment, he didn’t speak. The water lapped quietly against the porcelain. When he finally did respond, it was soft. Barely a whisper.

“Not… ready.”

Your heart ached at that.

“Is it because of what happened?” you asked gently, reaching out to rest your hand on the edge of the tub near his own. “Are you scared to go back?”

He looked at your then, really looked eyes dark like the deep, searching for something in your expression. He opened his mouth. Closed it. Struggled with the words.

Then, carefully, he said, “Scared… of alone.”

The silence that followed hit like a wave crashing the shoreline.

You blinked, your chest tightening. You hadn’t expected that. Not from a being who came from an entire world beneath the surface. But now… now he was stranded in yours. And he didn’t want to be alone in either.

“You’re not alone,” you whispered.

He nodded slowly, as if he wanted to believe you. His hand brushed yours, just barely like the kiss of tide on a docked boat. You squeezed it gently. “We’ll find a way to get you back home. Together.” Hyunjin exhaled through his nose, his tail flicking once like a nod of agreement. Then he looked at you again, lips twitching into something soft and shy. But when you glanced up, his expression wasn’t dreamy anymore.

It was far away. Cold. Haunted. You lowered her voice. “Hyunjin?” He blinked once, then slowly met your gaze.

“I remember,” he whispered.

Your heart stumbled in her chest. “You remember what?” He hesitated—like dragging words up from the deep cost him something.

“The cages,” he said softly, and your breath hitched.

He looked down at the water, hands gripping the edges of the tub, knuckles pale. “They came. On boats. Bigger than yours. With hooks that burned. With nets that… screamed.”

You felt your throat close. He wasn’t just recounting—he was reliving.

“They pulled us out. My family… my brothers… We didn’t understand. We tried to speak. They laughed.” His jaw trembled. “They cut us open. Not to eat. Not for anger. Just… to look.”

“Hyunjin,” you whispered, moving closer, your hand brushing his arm gently.

His tail shifted beneath the surface like a restless tide, voice shaking. “They said we were myths. That we shouldn’t exist. But we did. We lived. We danced. We sang under the moon.” He paused, a tremor rushing through his body. “And now… they are gone.”

You sat in silence, the ache in your chest thick and rising. Your fingertips curled into the towel on your lap.

“All of them?” you asked softly. His eyes slowly lifted to yours, endless, broken.

“I’m the last.”

The room went quiet. No ocean, no gulls, no passing footsteps. Just the sound of a tub barely large enough to hold grief this deep. You reached for him. Not out of pity—but reverence. Your hand slid over his, grounding.  held him like you weren’t afraid of the saltwater or the sorrow or the truth that he carried in his bones.

“I’m so sorry,” you whispered, and you meant it with your whole being. “You shouldn’t have to carry that.”

“I don’t want to forget them,” he said.

“Then we won’t let them be forgotten,” you replied, tears burning the edges of your voice. “Tell me everything. Their names. The songs. The dances. I’ll write them all. I’ll remember with you.”

His lips parted, chest rising unevenly. Then, slowly, he gave a tiny nod—his hand tightening over yours.

He didn’t thank her with words. He didn’t need to.

Because when you’re the last echo of an entire people, the quiet presence of someone who sees you… is the loudest mercy of all.

---

The morning had unraveled gently around them, filled with soft conversation and the occasional sound of water lapping against porcelain. Hyunjin had calmed, though shadows still lingered beneath his eyes. You were crouched in front of your closet now, pulling out a simple change of clothes—comfortable sweats and a hoodie that would look oversized even on you, let alone on him.

You placed them on the edge of the bed beside a small plate of fruits and crackers. “This should keep you a little full,” you said, giving him a soft look, “I know you said you weren’t hungry, but… in case your stomach changes its mind.”

Hyunjin was sitting on the bed, towel-dried hair falling messily over his collarbones, legs tucked up to his chest like he still wasn’t quite used to them. His tail had faded with the morning light, and in its place were long, lean limbs that still trembled slightly with every shift of movement. But he was healing. Slowly. Carefully.

“I have to go… just for a few hours,” you murmured, grabbing your ID badge and stuffing it into the front pocket of your hoodie.

He looked up fast, eyes wide and sharp. “Go?” His voice was raspy, like the word didn’t sit right in his throat. “Now?”

You smiled gently, walking over to sit beside him. “I don’t want to, trust me. But if I don’t show up, they’ll come looking. And I really don’t want them knocking on this door and finding you trying to nap in the tub.” He tilted his head, visibly uncomfortable. His fingers flexed at his sides like he didn’t quite know what to say—but his eyes said it all. Stay. Please.

“I’ll be back,” you reassured him, brushing a strand of damp hair behind his ear, “I promise. I just need to clock in, finish some reports, act like I didn’t rescue a literal myth from the shoreline last night, and then I’m yours again. Sound fair?”

He didn’t answer right away, but his shoulders slumped, the tension bleeding out with a quiet exhale. “I don’t… like it.”

Your heart pulled. “I know.”

“Danger,” he murmured, voice low. “Land is… danger.”

“I’ve survived it this long,” you smiled, though it was sad around the edges. “But thank you for caring.”

Then, you stood, walking to your desk to grab a notepad and scribbled something down. Walking back, you handed it to him.

“If anyone knocks—anyone at all—you go into the bathroom, lock the door, and don’t make a sound. There’s a towel in the cabinet and a curtain you can pull over the tub. Got it?”

Hyunjin studied the paper like it was sacred. Then, nodding slowly, he whispered, “Hide.”

“Good boy,” you grinned, ruffling his hair gently. He blushed hard—cheeks blooming red under his damp skin—but he looked pleased.

You leaned down, grabbed a soft knit blanket from the end of the bed, and draped it over his lap. “Just rest. Try on the clothes if you’re comfortable. Explore. Don’t break anything. And don’t open the door, even if someone says my name.”

Hyunjin’s brows furrowed like he wanted to say more—but instead, he reached out slowly and brushed your pinky with his, like he was trying to hold on to you in the smallest way he knew how.

You looked at him, then gently squeezed his hand. “I’ll be back before sunset.”

As you turned to go, bag slung over your shoulder and heart heavy in your chest, you heard him say softly behind you—

“Y/N?”

You turned. “You smell like the ocean.” A faint smile pulled at his lips. “I think that’s why I trust you.”

Your throat went tight. You didn’t know how to respond. So, you slipped out the door, locking it behind you.

---

The sun was sharp overhead, glinting off the glass walls of the Marine Research Center as Y/N swiped her badge through the scanner. The soft beep welcomed her back to the real world—where mythical creatures didn’t exist, and last night’s discovery would’ve landed her in a padded room if she ever breathed a word of it.

She plastered on a neutral smile as she passed the lobby, offering a quick wave to her supervisor, Dr. Malia, who was already deep in conversation with another researcher over a cup of instant coffee.

“Y/N, you’re just in time,” Malia called over, barely glancing up from her tablet. “Need you in Lab 3—readings from yesterday’s dive are showing some unusual activity along the southern ridge.”

Y/N nodded politely, her voice calm. “On it.”

She moved quickly, weaving past teams in wetsuits, interns in scrubs, and walls lined with aquatic maps. But her thoughts were miles away—in a warm dorm room with closed blinds, behind a locked door, where a water-dwelling boy was hopefully still curled up on the bed.

She exhaled through her nose, trying to focus. Inside Lab 3, the familiar hum of machines and the smell of sea salt clung to the air. The monitors flickered with sonar readings and temperature charts, but the moment she saw the movement spikes from the southern ridge, her heart skipped.

That’s where she found him.

The readings pulsed—faint tremors of large movement—but they were irregular, like something had been moving there for a while and suddenly stopped. No wonder the team wanted it flagged. If only they knew.

She sat down at her console, running diagnostics. Her fingers moved, but her mind kept drifting. To Hyunjin's voice, unsure but velvet-smooth. “You good?” a voice asked, breaking through her daze.

She blinked. It was Lani, one of her coworkers, tilting her head curiously as she leaned on the desk beside her. “You seem… somewhere else.”

Y/N forced a soft laugh. “Didn’t sleep much.”

Lani narrowed her eyes teasingly. “Didn’t sleep much or didn’t sleep?”

“Oh my God, not like that,” Y/N scoffed, cheeks warming way too quickly. “I just… got caught up with notes. You know me and my midnight logs.”

“Mm-hmm,” Lani smirked, clearly not buying it. “Well, just don’t die on me before lunch. You owe me ramen.” Y/N waved her off with a small chuckle as the screen lit up again with another pulse. Her heart jumped, but she masked it under a yawn.

She needed to finish up these reports, make an excuse to head back early, and double-check that Hyunjin hadn’t started opening windows or something.

---

The walk back from the Marine Center was a blur. You had shoved your reports into your bag, mumbled something about needing to rest, and practically sprinted the last two blocks to your dorm with a plastic bag swinging at your side—filled with warm rice bowls, fresh fruit, and the kind of seaweed snacks you figured a merman might vibe with. Your key fumbled in the lock for a second—your heart already racing ahead of your hands.

Click.

You swung the door open—

—and the world softened.

There he was. Hyunjin was sprawled lazily across your bed, legs tangled in the sheets, water clinging to the tips of his constantly-damp hair as it curled messily around his face. You’d have to figure out where the heck the water came from. He was hunched over the tiny wooden chess set you kept on your shelf for decoration, eyes narrowed in fascination as he moved a knight and immediately tried to counter it with a bishop—against himself. Like he was having a full-on strategic war solo.

He looked up the moment the door creaked open. His eyes lit up like sunrise on open water.

And then he chirped—a soft, echoing, melodic sound that rippled from his throat and filled the room like a song sung underwater. It was strange and beautiful, rising and falling like a tide, and loud enough to startle you into stillness.

You blinked.

“…What was that?” you asked through a surprised laugh, dropping the bag onto your desk. “Was that—was that a hello?”

Hyunjin’s lips curled into the most angelic, boyish smile as he sat up straighter, fingers still ghosting over a rook. “It means…” He touched his chest, then motioned towards yours, and looked you in the eye. “Warm return.”

Your breath caught. “You mean like... welcome back?” He nodded, then shyly added, “But more.”

You didn’t know what to do with that for a second, heart thudding stupidly hard. “Well… warm return to you too, I guess,” you teased, brushing your hair back and walking over to him. “I brought food.”

Hyunjin tilted his head, sniffing the air like a curious cat. “It smells… green.”

“It’s seaweed,” you grinned. “And rice, and a few other things that won’t kill your stomach. I promise.” He took the bag from your hands slowly, reverently, like it was a gift from a goddess. You handed him chopsticks, and he stared at them like they were mini swords.

You sat beside him, close enough that your shoulders brushed. “So… how was your day, Fish Prince?”

“Strange,” he said after chewing thoughtfully. “The mirror makes my face look upside down if I bend over it. And the blanket trap is warm.” You snorted. “It’s called tucking yourself in. And you’re supposed to sleep under it, not roll into a sushi burrito.”

Hyunjin mimicked “sushi burrito” to himself and giggled behind the rice bowl. Your chest bloomed at the sound.

Once he’d eaten his fill, you leaned back against the headboard, pulling one leg up and chewing your lip.

“I’ve been thinking,” you said softly, eyes flicking to him. “We… we can’t keep you here forever. You need to get back to the ocean. I know where. Quiet, but… it’ll be hard, but I think I can get you there soon. It’s just—people might be watching the coast. We’ll need to be careful.”

Hyunjin’s eyes darkened slightly with understanding. “Return?” he asked, voice gentler.

You nodded. He looked down at his hands, curling his fingers in thought. Then he whispered, “I trust you.”

You reached over and brushed a bit of rice off his cheek. “Then we better make a plan.”

You sat cross-legged on the bed, notepad in hand, your brows furrowed as you sketched out a rough timeline. A coastal tide map was open beside you, and your pencil tapped restlessly against the paper.

“We’ll need to leave before dawn,” you murmured, half to yourself, half to the echo of the plan forming in your head. “Maybe tonight. I can grab wetsuits, maybe—”

You felt it again. That unrelenting gaze. Without even looking up, you sighed through a soft laugh. “Hyunjin… I’ve warned you about staring.” His voice came slow, curious, like he was rolling the words on his tongue. “But you’re… beautiful when you think. Your eyes talk.”

That made you blink up at him. He was sitting at the foot of the bed now, curled in the blanket he refused to let go of, legs drawn up like a question mark, hair falling in soft curtains around his face. His eyes were impossibly focused—on your lips, your cheeks, your very being.

“Humans…” he started slowly, “How do they show… when they love?”

You tilted her head. “Love?”

He nodded, a gentle seriousness washing over his face. “Like… like how I feel when you smile. Or when you came back, and I thought the room had air again.”

You didn’t speak for a second. Your heart was stuttering, and your mouth had gone dry.

“Well…” you said, voice a bit shaky but trying to sound casual. “We hug. We hold hands. We kiss. We say things—sometimes silly, sometimes deep. It depends.”

Hyunjin listened like a student before a sacred text. “And what does a kiss mean?” You looked at him then. Really looked. “It means… I see you. I trust you. It’s… a kind of giving. A promise. Sometimes it’s just fun. Sometimes it’s everything.”

There was a pause. A silence soaked in something heavy and gentle.

Then—

“In my world,” Hyunjin said softly, “We sing in pairs. The song is just for the one we love. It never sounds the same with anyone else. And we dance, too. Not with our feet… but with the way we move through the water together. Like… like we’re breathing in the same rhythm.”

You smiled, heart tightening. “That’s beautiful,” you whispered.

He studied you for another long beat. “Can I… try it?” he asked. “Your way. The human way.”

You blinked, startled. “You… you want to kiss me?” He nodded, slow but sure. “I think I love you,” he said simply. “And I want you to know. I want to speak it in your language.”

You opened your mouth to respond, to tell him that you both were nothing close to a relationship, but your breath caught somewhere in your throat—and he moved forward, leaning in with a hesitancy that felt sacred. Like he was approaching a sunrise.

His fingers brushed your cheek, light as a question. His gaze dipped to your lips.

And then—

He kissed you. You were beginning to think he’d seen other people do this for him to know what to do. A couple by the sea, workers on deck sneaking around. It was soft at first—like he was learning her shape. Testing how their worlds aligned at the edges. His lips were warm, gentle, tasting of salt and curiosity. He lingered for a breath, then another, before pulling back just slightly… and resting his forehead against hers.

You hadn’t moved. Couldn’t move.

He whispered, “Did I do it right?”

You let out a breathless laugh, eyes closing. “You did…it? I guess…”

Your fingers hovered near your lips, the ghost of his kiss still blooming like an aftertaste. Hyunjin was watching you again—his eyes wide, waiting, like he wasn’t sure if he’d crossed a line or unlocked a door. “That was…” you cleared your throat, heart thudding as she tried to find her voice. “Really good for a first time. But um… kissing has a bit of a rhythm to it. Like your songs, remember?”

He tilted his head. “Like a… duet?”

You smiled despite herself. “Exactly.” He leaned forward again, a little too eager, and you giggled, pushing him back gently. “Okay, no pouncing. Let’s take this slow. Follow my lead.”

You shifted closer on the bed, cupping his face softly. His cheeks were so warm under your touch. “When we kiss,” you whispered, “don’t just press in. Feel it. Think of it like… listening with your lips.” He nodded once, completely enthralled.  Why were you doing this? You’re teaching a merman how to kiss? Not like he’s going to need it in the future or anything. Your noses brushed, breaths mingling—and then you kissed him again.

This time, it was slower. Softer. Your lips met in a careful rhythm, Hyunjin mimicking your movements like a dancer finally learning the steps. He let out the smallest sound—something between a hum and a purr, low and delicate, and so intimate it sent a shock down your spine.

Your body tensed involuntarily.

That sound. It curled around your spine like heat. It wasn't just affectionate—it was sensual, primal in a way he likely didn’t even understand. You gasped, pulling back suddenly, your eyes wide and cheeks flushed.

Hyunjin blinked, confused. “Did I do something wrong?”

“No! No, no—” you laughed nervously, waving your hands, desperate to cool your face and your hormones. “That was… you’re doing great. You’re… a very fast learner.”

He beamed. “So, we kiss more now?”

“Absolutely not!” you squeaked, scrambling for your notepad like it was a lifeline. “We’re gonna focus on the plan, okay? The plan. The whole get-you-back-to-the-ocean thing. Remember that?”

Hyunjin pouted, flopping back onto the mattress, watching you with lidded eyes and a pout that was frankly unfair. You kept your gaze firmly on your scribbles.

“Okay,” you muttered to herself, “tonight tops, avoid the main marine patrol routes, smuggle you through the south dock…”

“I like kissing,” Hyunjin said helpfully behind you.

“Hyunjin,” you warned, voice tight.

“Yes?”

“Please. Let me focus.”

“Okay,” he said sweetly. “But after?”

You buried your face in your hands.

God help you. You were going to need a stronger distraction than a map and a marker.

---

The cold air bit at Y/N’s skin as she tightened her hoodie around her body, footsteps soft against the gravel path leading away from her dorm. Midnight painted everything in shadows and silver light. The marine center’s lab lights were off for the night, save for the emergency glow that hummed faintly near the edges of the supply shed.

Clutching a small bag and her keycard, Y/N glanced over her shoulder once more. Every step away from Hyunjin made her chest tighten, like some part of her knew he was still watching her from that tub, curled in warmth, eyes glowing in moonlight.

She just needed supplies. Just gauze, saline, maybe a blanket or two. Nothing traceable. Nothing suspicious. She’d just swiped her card through the lock when—

“Y/N?”

She flinched like a thief, spinning fast. A flashlight flicked on, landing on her face. Oh crap.

“Layla?” she blurted, blinking against the light.

Layla—a fellow researcher and one of her dorm neighbors—lowered the flashlight, brows raised, dark hair tied up in a sleepy bun. She was in sweatpants and a coat, holding a mug of tea like she’d only just come out for air.

“What are you doing out here? It’s almost 1 AM.”

Y/N froze. Her mind raced. Say something normal. Say something smart.

“Oh! Uh… I forgot I left my sketchbook in the lab,” she lied quickly, offering a sheepish grin. “Needed it for some ideas I had about tide cycles.” Layla tilted her head. “You’re sketching tide cycles? At midnight?” Y/N laughed nervously, cringing internally. “You know me. I get randomly inspired. Couldn’t sleep, so I figured I’d be productive.”

There was a long beat. Layla sipped her tea slowly, watching her. “…You okay though? You look kind of… flushed.”

“Flushed?” Y/N swallowed. Was she still red from the kissing? Oh God. “Probably just the chill. I was in bed and didn’t think I’d be out long.”

“Hmm.” Layla nodded, then smiled, yawning. “Well, don’t stay out too long. If Dr. Malia catches you raiding the supply kit again, she’ll have a fit.”

“Noted,” Y/N said, exhaling as her friend turned to head back to the dorm. Y/N waited until she disappeared from sight before slipping into the shed. Her fingers were shaking—part nerves, part adrenaline.

She gathered what she needed in under five minutes: more gauze, protein bars, wet cloths, a heating pad. As she stuffed the supplies into her bag, her heart thrummed like a drumbeat in her ears.

Not from fear. From urgency. Hyunjin needed to go back. And soon.

Because the longer he stayed…the harder it was going to be to let him go.

Y/N’s hand hovered above Hyunjin’s shoulder, hesitant to wake him. He looked peaceful in her bed, for once. The soft light of dawn hadn’t broken yet—only a bluish tint stretched across the room, casting shadows on his long limbs tangled in the blanket. His hair was damp against the pillow, tail gone now, legs stretched awkwardly, human again—but still otherworldly.

She knelt beside him and gently touched his shoulder. “Hyunjin,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. “Wake up. It’s time.” He stirred immediately, blinking hazily. When he saw her face, something in his gaze shifted—alert now. He sat up, brows furrowing. No questions. He trusted her.

She offered a towel and a pair of her loose marine trousers. “Dry off. You’ll need these,” she murmured, glancing at the door.

Hyunjin obeyed, fumbling with the fabric but managing to wrap the towel around his waist and slide the pants on, even if a bit clumsily. His legs were stronger now, steadier. She helped him with the drawstring, their fingers brushing—brief, electric.

They moved like ghosts through the building—silent, invisible. Y/N led them down the emergency stairwell, the soles of their feet brushing the cold tile, their breaths caught in their throats. Every creak of a door sounded like a shout. She held her breath when they passed the night guard’s office, her hand clutching Hyunjin’s tight.

He looked at her like she was leading him to the stars. Once they hit the back doors, Y/N paused, peering through the narrow glass pane. The coast behind the center was calm, the water like ink under the faintest touch of moonlight.

“Now,” she whispered, and they slipped out.

The small boat was waiting—an old rowboat with a modest engine, one she’d repaired herself last year during maintenance season. Hyunjin stepped into the shallows with careful feet, his balance off but improving. She helped him in, her hands steadying his arms.

He sat on the edge of the bench seat, watching her like she was a miracle in motion. Y/N climbed in behind him, heart thundering, hands quickly working over the ignition. The soft whirr-click of the engine starting filled the air.

They were moving.

The boat glided over the glassy water, away from the shore, away from the dorm, the marine center, the human world—just the two of them under the sliver of a moon. Wind tugged at her hair. Salt kissed her lips. Hyunjin was quiet beside her, eyes wide as he watched the horizon.

Y/N gripped the steering handle, jaw set.

This was it. No turning back now.

The boat rocked gently under the hush of the very early morning sky, the sound of soft waves licking against the sides blending with the distant hum of the world still asleep.

Y/N had steered them just far enough—beyond the line where marine patrols might sweep through, but close enough that she could come up with a believable excuse if someone questioned her presence.

“We’re not far,” she muttered, cutting the engine so they drifted in silence now. “This should be okay, but I still have to think of what I’ll tell them—God, maybe I’ll say I came out to chart the tides or observe plankton migration. No, that sounds stupid—ugh, maybe I can say I dropped something, like a waterproof recorder—do I even own a waterproof recorder?”

She kept talking, eyes darting around, hands nervously adjusting the rope tied to the oar, the bag at her feet, anything to keep from looking at him.

“You have to go now,” she said, finally turning. “We don’t have time, and if they find me out here with you—”

Her voice faltered when her eyes met his.

Hyunjin wasn’t moving. He wasn’t scrambling to dive in, or panicking. He just sat there, elbows resting on his knees, watching her with those impossibly soft eyes—dark, vast, unreadable, like the very ocean they sat on. His gaze held her steady, like he was anchoring her to this moment.

She swallowed hard.

“You have to hurry,” she tried again, forcing the words through the tightness in her throat. She looked away, blinking fast. “Please. Before someone sees.”

But her voice betrayed her—too brittle. Her hand tightened around the edge of the boat, nails digging into the old wood. She couldn’t let herself feel this. They haven’t even spent a week together and she felt like it’d been a year already. It was probably the kiss.

Not now.

Not when he was looking at her like that. Like she was home. Hyunjin tilted his head slightly, the sea breeze playing with the strands of damp hair framing his face. He reached out gently, not touching her yet—just hovering his fingers near hers.

Still, he said nothing.

He didn’t have to. The boat drifted in a hush, the world wrapped in that soft pre-dawn blue that made everything feel suspended in time.

Hyunjin stood barefoot on the edge of the boat, trousers abandoned in a loose heap beside him. His tail shimmered into view under the moonlight—pearlescent blues and silvers catching the glow like he was carved from the ocean itself. Water dripped from his skin, running down the length of his scales in lazy trails, and yet… he hesitated.

He looked back at you.

You stood there, arms crossed like you were trying to hold yourself together, chin tilted up in some desperate attempt at bravery—but your eyes were glassy, your throat tight. What was wrong with you?

“You need to go,” you said softly, a weak smile tugging at your lips. “Now, Hyunjin.”

But you didn’t sound convincing. Not even to yourself. And maybe he sensed it.

Because he didn’t jump. He turned to you fully, sitting on the boat’s edge, and leaned in. His hand cupped your cheek so tenderly it undid the dam you were trying so hard to hold up and before you could even breathe, he kissed you.

It was soft, warm, filled with something far more permanent than either of them had planned for. He pulled back an inch, just enough to see your stunned face.

And then he kissed your again—deeper this time, like he wanted to remember what you tasted like. When you finally pulled apart, you gave a breathless laugh, blinking through the tears brimming in your lashes.

“You’re getting better,” you whispered, brushing your fingers down his jaw. “Every time.”

Your smile faded. “But you seriously have to go now. Before it’s too late.”

He looked like he wanted to argue, to stay just one more second, to soak you in a little longer. Before you could counter your actions, you gently pushed his shoulder.

“Go,” you whispered, voice cracking. “Please.”

He let himself fall backwards into the sea with a graceful splash, tail flicking in one final arc.

You didn’t waste time. She threw a decoy box—full of ocean samples, broken equipment, anything you could gather last minute—into the water. It hit the surface right as a voice called out behind her.

“Y/N? What the hell are you doing out here?” It was your manager.

You snapped your head toward the shore. “Oh—hey! Sorry! I dropped a specimen container during a test dive last night. I came back to look for it before the tide took it.”

The manager frowned, clearly annoyed but unconvinced enough to challenge you. “At this hour?”

You forced a tired laugh. “I couldn’t sleep. Figured I’d get it done now before the boats start moving.” He gave a grumble of approval and walked away without another word. You turned back to the sea, breath caught in her throat.

The surface rippled gently… and there he was. Just beneath the water, Hyunjin’s eyes gleamed in the dark. He looked at her with that same softness from before. One last goodbye.

Then, as if the ocean itself responded to his emotions, he let out a sound—not a word, not a call. Just a song. A pulse of something deep and ancient and mournful that rippled across the water like a shiver.

It hit her like a memory she never had, aching in her chest.

Her tears finally slipped free.

Just a few. But enough.

“Goodbye,” she whispered.

I hope it's okay I'm getting better ideas I promise 🙏

Taglist: purple means I can't tag you

@whatdoyouwanttocallmefor @alisonyus @rockstarkkami @morkleesgirl @pessimisticloather @yoongiismylove2018 @imeverycliche @katchowbbie @pixie-felix @maisyyyyyy @katyxstay @day138 @necrozica @nebugalaxy @jeonginnieswifey @iknow-uknow-leeknow @leeknow-minho2 @sh0dor1 @jitrulyslayyed @igotajuicyass @imagine-all-the-imagines @lillymochilover @idol-dream-catcher @maxidential @ari-hwanggg @xxxxmoonlightxxx @rossy1080 @hanniebunch @tricky-ritz @woozarts @zerillia @queenofdumbfuckery @btch8008s @jamroses

Check out my pinned if you want to be added to the taglist!

~kc 💗

[chubby-bun-bun]

untitled (part 2)

You’ve made a friend out of your new crow roommate(?).

nav: one, two (current), three, four, five, six or: read on ao3

tags: sylus x reader, an au where you're an average citizen, slow burn, fluff, hurt/comfort, this part is lowkey crack, mephisto being a champ

An ivory satin throw pillow, embroidered with intricate rose gold floral patterns. A vintage set of wind chimes adorned with hanging crystal pendants. A fluffy cat plush toy from the old arcade down the block.

You stand proudly in front of your feathery companion, who’s perched atop the embroidered pillow. You gesture animatedly at the decorations you put together for its temporary lodging.

“Well, what do you think?” you ask, a barely concealed grin tugging at your lips as you pour a generous heap of peanuts into the lid of one of your old tumblers. Setting the makeshift bowl of treats beside your new crow acquaintance, you make sure it’s within easy reach.

The injured crow looks at the mini mountain of peanuts and lets out a squawk but doesn’t make any move to eat them. You frown at its lackluster reaction, glancing at the effort you poured into its setup on your bedroom’s windowsill. With an unconscious pout, you pluck a peanut from the pile, break it into smaller pieces, and offer it directly to the bird. It regards your hand for a moment before deliberately shifting its body away. Then, its beady eyes lift to meet yours.

“Your injury must’ve scared away your appetite, huh?” you murmur, gently patting the crow’s head. It coos softly, leaning into your touch.

“Tell you what,” you say. “Since it’s the weekend tomorrow, I’ll try looking for some soft food for you. Maybe it’ll be easier on your tummy.”

The crow merely responds with a squawk.

Hours later, you’re tucked into bed, fast asleep. A peaceful stillness settles over the room as moonlight streams through the window, scattering rainbow hues across the walls as it catches on the crystal pendants of the wind chimes.

You remain unaware as the injured crow on your windowsill tilts its head, carefully assessing your sleeping form. Satisfied that you’re out cold, it hops to the edge of the window and starts pecking at the lock.

Suddenly, two shadows appear outside the window, their presence drawing a startled squawk from the crow.

“Mephisto, what are you doing?” one of the figures whisper-yells. “Boss has been waiting for your report for hours!”

“If you slack off any longer, you’ll end up in this year’s holiday spread,” the other shadow adds.

The crow—Mephisto—clicks its beak against the glass, squawking indignantly at the pair.

One of the twins snickers before pulling out a Swiss army knife and begins to pick the lock. His grin, hidden behind a leather crow mask, quickly fades when the lock refuses to budge.

“Hurry up, Luke!”

“I am hurrying!” Luke snaps, working the lock again. Still nothing. “Ugh, you try, Kieran.”

Kieran sighs, rolling his eyes—an expression Luke can somehow feel even through the identical crow mask—and snatches the tool from his twin. He fiddles with the lock for a few minutes before groaning in frustration.

“The hell,” he mutters. “This is, like, N109 zone-level stuff. What kind of window lock is this?”

Mephisto squawks, clearly impatient.

“Look, buddy,” Luke says, throwing his hands up. “You’ll just have to hold out until we figure this out. This is practically prison-grade!”

“We’ll report back to boss,” Kieran adds, his tone placating. “Hang tight, alright?”

Mephisto’s stressed cawing grows louder, and it’s enough to stir you from sleep. You groggily sit up, rubbing your eyes with a yawn, and reach for your glasses on the nightstand. Blinking against the dim light, your bleary gaze focuses on the windowsill.

Your crow companion sits where you left it, still nestled atop its embroidered pillow. You stare at it for a beat. It stares back. You yawn again and flop back down onto the bed.

“G’night,” you mumble, oblivious to the flash of two shadows outside your window amidst the falling snow.

—

The weekend passes without much fuss. You stay inside the house as always, doing your usual chores. Normally, you’d head out for your weekly grocery run, but your recent financial choices have forced you to make do with whatever’s left in your fridge—much to the dismay of the two shadows lurking outside, waiting for you to leave so they can retrieve their co-worker.

You do, however, spend a lot of time fussing over your new roommate. While you’re undeniably fond of animals, you’ve never actually had one as a pet. Your family never got around to adopting one, for no particular reason. So, as an outlet for your long-repressed cuteness aggression, you pour all your love into whatever animal crosses your path.

True to its crow nature, your new feathered friend has a soft spot for shiny things. You could barely contain your grin as it inspected your small hoard of treasures gifted by your other crow visitors. On a quaint, repurposed coffee table, you’ve carefully arranged an assortment of polished stones, colorful glass shards, scavenged bits of jewelry, and loose coins. Off to the side are the eccentric bits of random rusty nails, bottle caps, and paperclips that you find just as charming. Your curious crow seems particularly intrigued by the red-colored items in your collection, tilting its head and studying them with keen interest.

It seems comfortable around humans, too. It’s taken a liking to perching on your shoulder as you go about your chores. Not wanting to strain its injured wing, you crafted a makeshift shoulder sling, snug enough to keep its wing steady. (You couldn’t resist decorating it with a few plastic gem stickers from your scrapbooking supplies. Thankfully, it doesn’t seem to mind.)

But there’s one thing that has you deeply worried—it won’t eat. Its stubborn refusal to touch food has left you stressed out all weekend. Which is why, on this Sunday night, you’re sitting cross-legged on your bedroom’s carpeted floor with the shattered remains of your ceramic piggy bank in front of you, counting the pitiful savings you’ve scraped together for emergencies. You’ve decided to take the poor creature to the vet tomorrow. Its lack of appetite and still-limp wing have been gnawing at your conscience.

“Maybe this is enough for the consultation fee and some meds?” you murmur, flipping through the thin wad of bills in your hands.

So focused on your counting, you barely notice the pacing crow in front of you. It seems just as distressed at the idea of you draining your savings for its upcoming vet visit, if its insistent cawing is anything to go by.

“Don’t worry,” you reassure it, gently patting its soft head. “I can take the morning off tomorrow so I can have your wing looked at as soon as possible. It’ll be some hours of income lost, but it’s okay!”

It caws louder, practically begging you to reconsider.

Morning arrives, and you’re up and ready to head to the vet. Just as you move toward the bird—currently pacing frantically along your windowsill—to place it in your makeshift carrier, the sharp ringtone of your phone cuts through the room.

Frowning at the unregistered number flashing on the screen, you hesitate before accepting the call and bringing the phone to your ear. “Hello?”

“Good morning! Am I speaking with the assistant to the Akso IT department’s manager?”

The voice sounds oddly youthful despite the professional introduction. “…Yes?”

“The manager has requested your urgent assistance in 30 minutes. Thank you for your prompt action.” Without waiting for a response, the call ends abruptly.

You lower your phone, staring at the screen in disbelief.

For a moment, you consider ignoring the call and sticking to your plans for the day. But then you remember how your manager has a way of making your life miserable when things don’t go his way—and the fact that you’re flat-out broke.

With a resigned sigh, you shove the phone back into the pocket of your jeans and turn to your crow companion, now still and watching you intently.

“Something from work came up,” you mumble, gaze downcast. “I’m sorry. I’ll do my best to get back this afternoon. If I don’t make it, I promise I’ll take you to the vet tomorrow, okay?” You glance at its injured wing, anxiety twisting in your chest at the thought of leaving it untreated any longer.

After quickly changing into something more office-appropriate, you lean down to place a gentle kiss on the bird’s head and scratch its chin. You miss the way its tail fluffs up and the soft coo it lets out as you straighten up. You then rush out of your bedroom and through the front door, hurrying to catch the bus at the end of the street.

A heavy silence settles over the now-empty house. Moments later, the faint creak of the front door opening again pierces the quiet. Then, the bedroom door swings open, revealing Luke and Kieran, clad in their signature crow masks and hoodies adorned with devil horns.

“Let’s go!” Luke shouts, lunging toward the bird.

Mephisto caws indignantly, pecking at his hand in protest—still annoyed, it seems, at their earlier failed attempt to snatch him.

The twins’ laughter echoes through the house as they make their exit, Mephisto’s shrill caws following.

—

You’ve been home for less than five minutes, and already you’re tearing the house apart, frantically searching for your midnight-feathered companion.

“Little crow, are you here?” Your voice trembles as you call out, your eyes darting from room to room with growing urgency.

It’s been a while since you’ve felt this way. Not the exact same feeling, but somewhat eerily similar.

Grief.

You’d been so sure the bird would be waiting for you when you got home, just like it had every day for the past few days. But the moment you found its pillow—and your entire room—empty of its presence, panic had clawed its way into your chest.

Deep down, you know it must’ve escaped. Your window was slightly ajar when you began your frantic search, even though you swear you wedged your trusty old toothpick into the lock last night. But there the toothpick was, resting neatly on the embroidered pillow.

At the end of the day, it’s just a wild animal. It doesn’t owe you anything.

You sink onto the edge of your bed, chest heaving from the effort of running around the house. Your eyes fall on the empty pillow sitting on the windowsill, and a hollow ache settles in your chest.

Somehow, you had hoped it wouldn’t leave you, too.

A sharp glint catches your attention from the corner of your eye. Turning toward it, you’re startled to see the mess beneath your makeshift treasure display. The gifts your other crow friends had brought you are scattered haphazardly across the floor. The display is tucked into the small alcove in the corner of your room, so it’s no wonder you hadn’t noticed the mess until now.

But then your eyes land on the new centerpiece of the table.

A mound of red gems, gold coins, and jewelry now occupies the space, gleaming in the light.

Atop the pile rests a single, glossy black feather.

note: 🐦‍⬛🐦‍⬛🐦‍⬛✨✨✨

nav: one, two (current), three, four, five, six or: read on ao3

check out my other works!

[heartlilith]

WHAT THE VENUS SIGNS REMIND ME OF

🩷Oddly specific things I think about when I hear ______ venus

Aries Venus: Summer, rubies, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, rollercoasters, fast cars, the color red, vampire fangs, Saturday nights, liquor stores and gas stations, fireworks, sour candy, cool bic lighters, “you’re mine”, Mario Kart, boys who wear nail polish, fuck it energy, oversized sweatshirts, middle finger emoji, cherries

Taurus Venus: Satin pillowcases, white candles, pearls, mirrors, hand holding, walking someone home at night, vinyls, red lipstick, full lips, fancy dinner dates, the wine and dine, old romantic movies, wallets and purses, hotels, French manicures, old money, “I won’t get on my knees for no man”

Gemini Venus: Driving around at night listening to music, reading to someone, comedy shows, mimosas, Samantha from Sex and the City, libraries, nerd kink, hot teachers/student kink, emerald green, laughter, swing sets, looking out of the window and just watching, untied shoelaces, dogs and puppies, dad jokes

Cancer Venus: Soft feather pillows, a bowl of warm soup, a bubble bath, tears and running mascara, babies and how babies laugh, poetry, “I’ll be whatever you want me to be”, hot tubs, hot coffee, teddy bears, heartbeats, soft hands & skin, lotion, bagels and cream cheese, doodling in your journal

Leo Venus: Lip gloss, mojitos, getting drunk at brunch, diamond tennis bracelets, drunk texts you regret sending later, the block button, lonely nights, shooting stars, blowing bubbles, piggy back rides, art museums, glittery eyeshadow, jumparoos, birthday parties

Virgo Venus: Taking a shower, Dove soap, smooth skin, symmetry, butterflies, the smell of books, getting a facial or going to the spa, chicken caesar salads, the good tasting water, chunky headphones, acoustic guitar, running errands, getting your eyebrows done, neat handwriting, neutral colors, sushi

Libra Venus: Blush, dimples, Y2K fashion, Hello Kitty, makeup skills, those little hand mirrors, princes and princesses, cupcakes, pedicures, Margaritas, taking pictures, art, castles, Disney movies, daisies, spin the bottle, cartwheels, soft hair, bubblegum, skincare, watermelon and pineapple

Scorpio Venus: Psychology, neck tattoos, “until death do us part”, Kings & Queens, snakes, sacred sex, chess, secrets, hickeys, the feeling after you stay up all night, the feeling of being at a concert, roses, knives, tequila shots, legs intertwined, dirty martinis, sparklers, Avril Lavigne, fantasy books, true crime and dark history

Sagittarius Venus: Clouds, rock climbing, rappers, Hip Hop and R&B, going on vacation, açaí bowls and fresh fruit, sun kissed/radiant skin, the color yellow, retreats, history, yoga and Pilates, spicy food, “it is what it is”, curly hair, the smell of weed, casinos, the last day of school, Las Vegas

Capricorn Venus: Leather, red wine, the cow pattern, cowgirl boots, the color brown, espresso, dark chocolate, briefcase of money like in the movies, the movie Scarface, whiskey on the rocks, bosses, owls, turtle necks, caramel, wearing suits, lingerie, business, New York City

Aquarius Venus: Lightbulbs, telescopes and microscopes, LED lights, hamsters, college parties, glitter, peace signs, 70s concerts, food trucks, skipping school, “fuck it”, diving in the pool, the beach at night, disco balls, getting detentions in school

Pisces Venus: Mermaids, kittens, cartoons and Disney princesses, champagne, Webkinz, little kid stories like Goldilocks, 3 Little Pigs, Hansel and Gretel, clear glittery lip gloss, holographic, snowmen and icicles, swimming in the pool, flower gardens, glow sticks , picnics, bumblebees, sand castles, elementary art class, 3D movies

Book a Reading 🩷

Masterlist 🩷

[lila-lou]

✨Motel nights✨

Summary: After weeks of relentless hunting and stolen glances, Dean couldn’t wait any longer. The moment Sam drifted into a deep sleep after the last hunt, Dean seized the chance, his need for you overwhelming any restraint.

Pairing: Dean x Reader

Warnings: 18+ only! Smut, Language, Fluff

Word Count: 2964

A/N: English isn’t my first language, please be lenient. 💙

The motel room was dimly lit by the soft glow of the bedside lamp. The heavy curtains blocked out most of the neon lights from outside, casting a warm, golden hue over everything. The hum of the air conditioner provided a steady background noise, blending seamlessly with the occasional rustle from the old, threadbare blanket on the bed.

You lay on the bed next to Dean, your head resting on his chest. His arm was wrapped around you, his fingers lightly tracing patterns on your back. The familiar scent of leather and soap filled your senses, a comforting mix that was undeniably Dean.

“It’s quiet”, Dean murmured, his voice a low rumble in the stillness. “Too quiet”.

You glanced over at Sam, sprawled out on the couch. His chest rose and fell in a steady rhythm, his face relaxed in sleep. “He’s out cold”, you whispered, a soft smile playing on your lips.

Dean’s fingers moved to your shoulder, his touch warm and gentle. “Yeah, guess we wore him out with that last hunt”.

You shifted slightly, turning to face Dean more fully. The look in his eyes was soft, filled with a tenderness that he rarely showed to anyone else. His free hand came up to cup your cheek, his thumb brushing lightly over your skin. “You okay?”, he asked, his gaze searching yours.

“I’m fine”, you replied, leaning into his touch. “Just… tired”.

Dean’s eyes softened with understanding, but there was a flicker of something deeper, something more intense. “Yeah, I get that”. he said softly, his voice barely more than a murmur. His hand remained on your cheek for a moment longer, his thumb gently caressing your skin.

As you both settled into a more comfortable position, Dean’s hand drifted slowly down from your cheek. He let his fingers trace a gentle path along the curve of your shoulder and down your arm.

His hand continued its journey, moving with a tender deliberation until it rested at the base of your back. He paused there, his fingers splayed out, feeling the warmth of your skin beneath his palm. The touch was soft but firm, a reassuring presence.

Then, with a slow, deliberate movement, Dean’s hand began to explore further. His fingers glided across your lower back, tracing the curve of your hips. The movement was gentle, almost exploratory, as if he were savoring the sensation of your skin under his touch.

As his hand moved lower, it finally reached the curve of your ass. His touch was feather-light at first, his fingers brushing over the fabric of your pants. The sensation was both familiar and exhilarating, a mix of tenderness and desire.

Dean’s hand lingered there, his fingers lightly grazing the curve of your ass. His touch was careful, almost reverent.

You could feel the warmth of his hand through the fabric, a soft pressure that made you shiver with a mix of pleasure and anticipation.

He shifted slightly, his body moving closer to yours as his hand continued its gentle exploration. His fingers moved in slow, deliberate strokes, the caress becoming more intimate. You could feel his breath against your ear, warm and steady, as he leaned in closer.

As Dean shifted, pressing you more firmly against him, you could feel the solid, unmistakable pressure of his erection pressing into your thigh. The sensation was both surprising and exhilarating, heightening the intimacy of the moment.

Dean’s breath grew heavier, mingling with yours as he moved closer. His hand, still resting on your ass, continued its slow, affectionate caress.

The feel of him against you, combined with the gentle touches of his hand, made your pulse quicken. You could sense the urgency beneath his carefully measured actions, the deep desire he felt.

Dean’s lips wandered over your jaw, placing soft, lingering kisses along the way. He moved down to your neck, the heat of his breath against your skin sending shivers down your spine. Each kiss was tender yet filled with a deep, simmering desire that made your heart race.

As his lips trailed lower, Dean’s hand slid from your ass to your waist, then up your side. His fingers found the buttons of the flannel shirt you were wearing—his shirt, which hung loosely on your frame. With practiced ease, he began to unbutton it, his movements slow.

You let out a soft gasp as his lips found a sensitive spot on your neck, just below your ear. “Dean”, you whispered, the word escaping your lips between breaths.

He responded with a low, rumbling murmur, the sound vibrating against your skin. His fingers deftly worked their way down the shirt, each button revealing more of your skin to the cool air of the room and the warmth of his touch.

When the last button was undone, Dean gently pushed the fabric aside, his eyes darkening with desire as he took in the sight of your naked breasts. He paused for a moment, his gaze intense, before his lips resumed their journey, kissing along your collarbone and down to your chest.

His hand moved to cup one of your breasts, his touch tender yet possessive. You could feel the roughness of his palm against your sensitive skin, a stark contrast that sent waves of pleasure through you. He brushed his thumb over your nipple, eliciting another soft gasp from you.

Dean’s lips followed the path of his hand, kissing the swell of your breast before taking your nipple into his mouth. He sucked gently, his tongue flicking over the sensitive peak, making you arch into him, your fingers tangling in his hair.

“Dean”, you breathed again.

His lips continued to work their way across your chest, each kiss more insistent than the last. His free hand slid around to the small of your back, pulling you even closer against him.

You let out another soft gasp, your fingers gripping his hair as his mouth moved to your other breast, giving it the same loving attention. The sensations were overwhelming, a perfect blend of tenderness and desire that left you trembling.

“Dean”, you whispered, your voice shaky. “We can’t… what about Sam?”.

Dean paused, his mouth just inches from your skin. He looked up at you, his eyes dark and filled with a fierce, unwavering determination. “I don’t care”, he said softly, his voice a deep rumble. “We need this. I need this. It’s been too long”.

His words sent a thrill through you, the intensity of his desire matched by your own. The weeks of stolen glances and brief touches had left you both yearning for more, the need for each other building to an almost unbearable level.

Dean’s lips found yours again, his kiss hungry and demanding. His hands roamed over your body, pulling you closer, pressing you against him.

You melted into the kiss, your own desire overcoming any lingering hesitation. The feel of his body against yours, the warmth of his hands, and the insistent pressure of his lips all combined to create a heady mix of sensations that left you breathless.

Dean’s hand slid down your side, his fingers hooking into the waistband of your pants. He tugged gently. You lifted your hips slightly, helping him ease the fabric down and off, leaving you bare besides him.

Dean’s eyes never left yours as he pulled down his boxers, the only clothing he wore, revealing his hard length. The sight of him, his desire evident, made your breath catch in your throat. He rolled back onto his side, his strong arms guiding you to follow, positioning your back to face Sam. The move was deliberate, protective, ensuring that if Sam woke up, he would see nothing more than the two of you seemingly cuddling.

With a careful, practiced motion, Dean pulled the threadbare blanket over the both of you, cocooning you in a private, intimate space. The warmth of the blanket and Dean’s body combined to create a comforting heat that wrapped around you, further heightening your sense of connection.

Dean’s hand slid under your thigh, gently lifting it and wrapping it around his hip. The movement brought you even closer, aligning your bodies perfectly. You could feel the heavy, warm weight of his erection resting against your lower abdomen, the sensation sending a thrill of anticipation through you.

He pressed a soft kiss to your forehead, his lips lingering there for a moment. “Just relax, baby”, he whispered, his voice a soothing rumble. “I’ve got you”.

You nodded, your breath coming in shallow, uneven gasps as you adjusted to the new closeness. The feel of his erection against you was both comforting and exhilarating, a tangible reminder of his need for you.

Dean’s hand moved to cup your ass, pulling you even closer against him. The intimate pressure of his body against yours, combined with the warmth of his touch, sent waves of pleasure through you. His lips found yours again, the kiss slow and deep, filled with all the love and desire he felt.

You responded in kind, your hands roaming over his back, feeling the solid muscle beneath his skin. The kiss deepened, a shared exploration of passion and tenderness that left you both breathless. Every touch, every caress, was a reminder of the deep bond you shared, a connection that went beyond words.

As the moments passed, Dean’s hand moved between your bodies, his fingers tracing a path along your inner thigh. The touch was both teasing and possessive, a promise of what was to come. He found your core, his fingers slipping between your folds, a soft, deliberate caress that made you gasp into his mouth.

The sensation was overwhelming, a mix of pleasure and anticipation that left you trembling. His erection pressing more insistently against you, the need in his touch mirrored in your own desire. Dean’s fingers continued their slow, teasing exploration.

You broke the kiss, your breath coming in short, shallow pants as you looked into his eyes. “Dean”, you whispered, your voice filled with longing.

He responded with a low murmur, his lips brushing against yours. “I know, baby. I know”.

With a careful, practiced motion, he shifted his hips, guiding his erection to your entrance. The feel of him pressing against you, combined with the warmth of his body and the intimacy of his touch, was almost too much to bear. You arched into him, your body craving the connection, the closeness.

Dean’s fingers moved to your hip, holding you steady as he slowly eased into you, the sensation a perfect blend of pleasure and intimacy. You could feel every inch of him, the deep, insistent pressure filling you completely.

The initial sensation of Dean entering you was both intense and exquisite, sending a ripple of pleasure through your entire body. He paused for a moment, giving you both a chance to adjust to the intimate connection. His breath was warm against your skin, his forehead resting against yours, eyes locked in a gaze that spoke volumes.

Dean began to move slowly, each thrust measured and deliberate, ensuring that you felt every inch of him. The friction created a delicious pressure that built with each movement, your body responding instinctively to his rhythm. You could feel the tension coiling in your lower abdomen.

Your breaths mingled, creating a symphony of shared desire. The need to stifle your moans became more pressing as the sensations intensified. You bit down gently on Dean’s shoulder, the taste of his skin grounding you even as it heightened the intimacy. The pressure of your bite made him groan softly, the sound vibrating against your ear and sending shivers down your spine.

Dean’s hand, still resting on your hip, moved to cup your ass, his fingers digging in slightly as he pulled you closer with each thrust. The intimacy of the position, your leg draped over his hip, allowed for deeper penetration, each movement driving him further into you. The feeling was overwhelming.

His free hand traced a path up your spine, fingers lightly dancing over your skin. Every touch, every caress was filled with love and reverence, making the experience all the more profound.

Dean’s lips found yours again, capturing them in a deep, searing kiss. His tongue teased yours, mirroring the rhythm of his thrusts, the connection between you growing ever deeper. The kiss muffled your moans, your shared breath hot and desperate.

Dean’s lips moved from yours, trailing down your neck and back up to your ear. His breath was hot and ragged as he whispered, “You feel so good”, the words punctuated by a soft groan.

The pace of his thrusts remained slow, designed to drive you both to the edge of pleasure without rushing the moment.

Dean’s hand slid up from your ass, tangling in your hair. He pulled you closer, his mouth finding yours again in a kiss that was both demanding and tender.

“Fuck”, Dean muttered against your lips, his voice a low, guttural growl. “You’re perfect. So fucking perfect”.

His words, combined with the steady rhythm of his thrusts, made you tremble. You bit down on his shoulder again, harder this time, the need to stifle your moans becoming more urgent.

“Fuck, baby”, he groaned, the pleasure evident in his voice. “I need you. I need all of you”.

The intensity of his words matched the growing urgency of his movements. His thrusts became slightly faster, each one more forceful, driving you both closer to the peak of pleasure. The sound of his name fell from your lips, a breathless whisper that mingled with his own low curses and groans.

Dean’s free hand moved between your bodies, his fingers finding your clit. The touch was gentle at first, a soft, deliberate caress that sent a jolt of pleasure through you. He circled the sensitive nub with his thumb, each movement perfectly timed with the rhythm of his thrusts.

The combination of his touch and the deep, insistent pressure of his thrusts was overwhelming. You could feel your body tightening, the pleasure building to an almost unbearable level.

“That’s it, baby”, he murmured, his voice thick with desire.

The sound of his voice, combined with the intensity of his touch and the deep connection you shared, pushed you over the edge. Your body tensed, the pleasure crashing over you in waves, your moans muffled against his shoulder as you bit down to stifle the sound.

Dean followed moments later, his own release a powerful culmination of the shared pleasure. His body shuddered against yours, his grip on your hip tightening as he emptied himself into you. The feel of him pulsing inside you added another layer to your pleasure, the intimacy of the moment leaving you both breathless.

As the waves of pleasure subsided, Dean held you close, his lips pressing soft kisses to your forehead and cheeks. His touch was tender, his movements gentle as he helped you come down from the high of your shared release.

The quiet aftermath was interrupted by the soft sound of movement on the other side of the room. You felt Dean’s body stiffen slightly, his breath becoming more controlled as he listened to the subtle shifts coming from the couch where Sam was sleeping.

Sam stirred, his movements slow and groggy as he started to wake. The blanket pulled snugly over you and Dean, combined with the angle at which you were positioned, meant that from his vantage point, he could only see your back. Still, the awareness that you were caught in a vulnerable moment made your breath hitch.

You pressed your face against Dean’s solid chest, trying to stifle any sounds or movements that might give away what had just happened. Dean's arms tightened around you, his hand moving soothingly up and down your back, as if to comfort you and maintain the illusion of just cuddling.

Sam’s groggy voice cut through the dim light of the room. “Hey, you two awake?”.

Dean, ever quick on his feet, cleared his throat and shifted slightly, his voice low and steady. “Yeah, just… you know, having a moment”.

Sam, still half-asleep, mumbled something incoherent before shifting slightly on the couch, his movements signaling he was trying to settle back into sleep. There was a brief silence, filled only by the faint hum of the air conditioner and the rustle of the blanket.

Dean’s hand continued to soothe your back, his touch gentle and reassuring. He pressed a soft kiss to the top of your head, whispering, “It’s okay. Just stay still for a minute”.

You nodded, your face still buried against his chest. The sound of Sam’s breathing gradually settled into the steady rhythm of sleep once more. The tension in the room eased slightly, though you could still feel the lingering nervous energy from the close call.

Dean's hand gently stroked your hair, his touch tender and calming as he waited for Sam to fully fall back asleep. The warmth of his body against yours and the soft, rhythmic beating of his heart helped ground you, bringing a sense of comfort and reassurance amidst the lingering adrenaline.

After a few more moments, when Sam’s breathing had once again become deep and steady, Dean sighed softly. He shifted slightly, allowing you to pull back just enough to meet his gaze.

“We’re good”, he whispered.

You managed a small, relieved smile, nodding in agreement. As you settled back into his embrace, the blanket cocooning you both, you felt a renewed sense of closeness and love.

———————————

A/N: Please let me know what you think.🥰 

-

Taglist: @blackcherrywhiskey @baby19sthings @suckitands33 @spnfamily-j2 @lyarr24 @deans-baby-momma @reignsboy19 @kawaii-arfid-memes @mekkencspony @lovziy @artemys-ackles @fitxgrld @libby99hb @lovelyvirtualperson @a-lil-pr1ncess @nancymcl @the-last-ry @spndeanwinchesterlvr @hobby27 @themarebarroww @kr804573 @impala67rollingthroughtown @deans-queen @deadlymistletoe @selfdestructionandrhum @utyblyn @winchesterwild78 @jackles010378 @chirazsstuff @foxyjwls007 @smoothdogsgirl @woooonau @whimsyfinny @freyabear @laaadygisbooornex3 @quietgirll75 @perpetualabsurdity @pughsexual @berryblues46 @deanwinchestersgirl8734 @kr804573

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

All In 17

No tag lists. Do not send asks or DMs about updates. Review my pinned post for guidelines, masterlist, etc.

Warnings: this fic will include dark content such as noncon/dubcon, age gap, power imbalance, low self esteem, and possible untagged elements. My warnings are not exhaustive, enter at your own risk.

This is a dark!fic and explicit. 18+ only. Your media consumption is your own responsibility. Warnings have been given. DO NOT PROCEED if these matters upset you.

Summary: you meet a mysterious man on a night out with your sister. (petite!reader)

based on the winning option for this poll

Characters: casino owner!Bucky Barnes

As per usual, I humbly request your thoughts! Reblogs are always appreciated and welcomed, not only do I see them easier but it lets other people see my work. I will do my best to answer all I can. I’m trying to get better at keeping up so thanks everyone for staying with me.

Your feedback will help in this and future works (and WiPs, I haven’t forgotten those!) Please do not just put ‘more’. I will block you.

I love you all immensely. Take care. 💖

You fidget again, fingers clamped around the short hem of the dress. It's nice. Pink roses on cream, a sheer layer over a thicker base; Loose long sleeves to balance out the lack of length. It both feels like too much and not enough.

"You look good. I said so. Whatcha squirming for?" Bucky reaches over to touch your hand. You let go of the skirt.

"I'm okay. Anxious. Meeting new people."

"It's just Ma." He pets your knuckles then reluctantly puts his hand back on the steering wheel. "She's excited to meet you."

"She is?"

"Oh yeah. I told her all about you. I'm kind of a dope like that," he chuckles.

You nod and look at him. He's opted for lighter colours. A muted shade of green and a white shirt patterned with leaves. Very summery.

"Then I just... don't want to let her down," you say.

"I know, baby. No way you can. I chose you," he growls. "You know that. All the girls in the world but you're the one I need."

You're breathless. Anyone would want those words said to them. They're both enlivening and defeating. You want to live up to all his expectations but the weight of them is overbearing.

"I know. I... I'm trying."

"Don't even gotta try, doll." He hums and his tongue pokes out. His cheeks dimple and his lips curl. "Like this morning. You just... you're everything."

Your cheeks tinge and you touch the side of your neck. You wince. It's tender there. You think it might bruise. Right where his thumb poked into you. As nice as everything else was, the memory of his hand on your neck has you uneasy.

"Here we are," he slows along the suburban avenue. "Ma keeps a nice house. Everything's got its place. Even me."

"Yeah? Okay," you murmur.

"And you now. I'm sure she's got everything set. Table, an extra seat." He scoffs and shakes his head. "Steve's a nice guy but he's not really brought home and girls. She'll adore you."

"He is nice," you agree, thinking of the skinny man from the day before.

"Always has my back so I got his," he kills the engine. "All you gotta do is smile and be you. It's what got me, doll." He unbuckles his seat belt and pauses, He taps the steering wheel with his index and sucks his teeth. "Better be careful with that."

"Careful?"

"I don't mind fighting off a few suitors, mind you. But you gotta realise what you do to a guy." He reaches over and rubs your shoulder. You watch him sheepishly as he leans in. You meet his lips with yours. His kiss is nice, soft but firm, and yet he squeezes so hard you twitch. "All mine."

He pulls back and opens his door. He gets out as you untangle yourself from your own seat belt. He's at your door before you can open it yourself. He offers his hand and helps you out.

The cream heels are nice but a touch high for you. They give you a few inches but not close to enough to match him. He lifts your hand high and hums.

"Doll, you look good. Tasty." He winks and licks his lip. "I gotta remember to behave. Ma isn't one for it."

He keeps a hold of your hand and leads you away from the car. He shuts the door and guides you along the front walkway. Pebbles are placed deliberately in a spiraling pattern to form a path between tall crocuses and tulips.

You get to the steps but your toe hits the first. You stumble and clutch Bucky tighter as he steadies you. You giggle, embarrassed, and keep going.

"Buck," the voice startles you. It's only then you see Steve sitting on the bench near the bay window. His hair is parted and combed neatly. He wears a plain white shirt and khakis.

"Hey, pal," Bucky says. Good to see you.

"Yeah, you too," he stands and dawdles across the porch. "Hi," he looks at you. "Glad you could make it. Sorry I couldn't find a friend for ya."

"Ah, too bad, buddy," Bucky reaches over and musses his hair. Steve grimaces and recoils, tidying his hair with his skinny fingers. "We'll find you someone. Any girl would be lucky. And I know luck."

"Ha, yeah," Steve smooths his blonde strands. "Ma's waiting. She didn't know if she needed to worry about too much meat so... she made lots of veggies."

"Always so thoughtful," Bucky preens.

He lets go of you and goes to the front door. He opens it and beckons you both inside. Steve gestures you politely ahead of him.

You enter meekly and look around. The front mat is decorated in flowers. You slip out of your shoes and put them with the rest, shuffling out of the way of the men. You look at the pictures on the wall. A cross stitch of a garden, then a collage of photos; Bucky and Steve, from boys, to teens, to fresh out of college. Steve doesn't look much different but Bucky definitely filled out.

"Aw, she's here!" She voice startles you. You jump and look around. You expect a large woman given the buoyancy of the tone but instead, you find yourself accosted by a spindly woman with greying blonde hair.She grabs your arms and kisses both your cheeks. "And she's gorgeous. Ooh!" She drags her hands down your sleeves. "This is beautiful. Stunning, like you."

"Oh, hello, uh, thanks," you flutter your lashes.

"Oh my, forgive me. I do get--" she stops and takes a step back. She puts her hand on her chest then balls it and covers her mouth. She rattles as she coughs.

Steve sidles past you, "ma." He takes a canister out of his pocket and shakes it. He puts the inhaler to her mouth as she drops her hand.

She inhales deeply several times as he rubs her back. Her cheeks are flush as she smiles at you. "Forgive me. Promise, I'm not contagious."

"They know, ma," Steve puts the cap back on the inhaler.

"It's alright. Are you?" You ask.

She tilts her head, "of course I am. You're so sweet. Come here."

You cautiously move forward, resisting the urge to look back. She takes your hand gently and pulls you with her. Her hand is frail in hers.

"You better be careful with Bucky," she tuts. "He's a rebel, that one."

"Sarah," he calls after her.

"This is a lady's chat, sir," she juts her finger into the air. "Now, he's a whole lotta bluster, let me tell you. So you're going to need to give him a firm swat now and again."

You hear a sigh and a snort. You can guess who issued which noise. Mrs. Rogers takes you down the hall and through the kitchen.

"Such a lovely day, I set us up outside. Oh, you should sit in the shade, dear. Wouldn't want you to burn." She hooks your arm through hers then opens the door, angling you through with her. "You're too pretty for him. Don't let him forget it."

"Oh, thanks, Mrs--"

"Missus? I'm Sarah, dear." She rebukes. "Tell me all about you."

She brings you to a cushioned wicker sofa and sits with you. You can hear the men come through the door as you blink against the bright sunlight. You nervously smile.

"Me?"

"Sure, dear. You know, I see Bucky on the television. He's got those pretty women hanging off of him but he never brings them home. Never. But you, I heard all about you. From him, and I know better than to believe everything he says."

Bucky sits in one of the wicker chairs on the other side of the table. You glance over. There are platters of fruits and veggies and artisinal crackers and cheese. The rest is hidden under lids.

"I... I like to read. He got me some books. I like the older stories. Um. Jane Eyre?" You explain.

"Smart, oh yes, he needs a smart one." She praises.

"Well, not... really. I didn't... Didn't get to go to school."

"What's school?" She cooes. "You don't need all that." She pats your hand gently. "Family?"

"My mom and sister," you answer as you twiddle your fingers on the bench.

"Oh, how lovely. You'll have to bring them next time."

"Good idea," Bucky intones.

She hisses and snaps her hand like a crocodile mouth in his direction. His brows arch. "I've seen the others. I'm certain they are all lovely but it's all too showy. You have to temper him."

You nod, sweltering in self-awareness and the gaze of the man she speaks of.

"You can. I see it." She cups your cheek. "You have a witch's eyes."

You tweak your head. You've never been told that before. She cackles.

"I know it because you bewitched him!" She lets you go and guffaws as she claps. "And he's the biggest ox I've ever known."

"Ma," Bucky crosses his arms.

She laughs and rocks until she is one more out of breath. Steve offers the inhaler and she takes it. Sucking on it as she keeps a grin fixed on her lips.

"Well, I went to all this trouble," she waves her hands to the table, "don't you go wasting it."

🃏

The smell of pollen pervades as Sarah touches your ear. You look at her in surprise as she puts a flower behind your ear. The pink petals are a blur in your peripheral.

"Oh, thanks," you fold your hands.

"It suits you," she smiles. "Now, Bucky," she curls her finger at him. "Come."

He gets up obediently. He approaches and she reaches for his hand. It's giant compared to hers. She takes yours too.

"You take her away before I try to keep her," she says as she puts your hand in his. "I've got lots of cleaning up to do."

"Let us help," Bucky insists.

"No, no. I will not have it. You came and brightened my morning." She squeezes his hand around yours. "Now go. Stevie will help clean up."

Plates clink and you look over. Her son is already stacking up the porcelain. He shows his teeth.

"Oh, well, it was nice to meet you, Sarah." You stand. "Thank you for having me."

"Thank you for coming. I know old women aren't great company."

"I had a good time," you assure her.

"I'd say you're too nice but I can tell you're honest." She turns her sights on Bucky. "Don't mess it up."

"Yes, ma," he bands and kisses her cheek.

He stands and gently tugs you up. She rubs her cheek as she makes a face.

"And get rid of that beard. It's scratchy." She reprimands.

He laughs. You dip your chin down. "Thanks again. Uh, bye then."

"You'll be back," she winks.

Bucky draws you away to the back door. You go inside and down the hall. You stop to step into your shoes. His hand rests on your lower back to steady you.

"She's right. Flower's pretty on you," he swirls his fingertips against your dress.

"Thanks," you look at him.

"And what do you think?" He flicks a long strand of his hair behind his ear then brushes his fingers over his beard. "You want me to get rid of it?"

"Hm?" You turn to him fully and his hand drags to your hip.

"The beard? You like it?"

"I... I don't mind it. It's nice," you shrug.

"Oh, it looks nice but..." he leans down. "Does it feel nice?"

You squeak as your eyes round. "Bucky."

"Those noises you were making, I think so." He purrs.

"Please, I..." you try to see past him.

"Mm, what do you wanna do now? More fun? Can I get on my knees again?"

You put your hand on his arm. "Bucky," your face washes with heat. "I... I have to go see my mom. She'll be worried."

"Mmmm," he hums. "I know, doll, but I need you."

His pelvis twitches and you chew your lip. He watches your mouth and you dig your toe into the floor.

"Let me go home and I'll come back tonight."

"Tonight?" He asks.

"Yes. But I do need to see her."

"Alright," he relents. "But what about tonight? What are we going to do?"

You look side to side, "whatever you want."

He snickers, "don't say that... I said I'd be patient."

You nod and smile nervously.

"How about we go gambling?" He suggests. "We'll sit at a few tables, have some drinks, and then... we can cuddle again."

You rub your neck, once more touching the bruise he left. "Okay, yeah. Um. That's cool."

"Sounds like a plan," he frames your face and leans in. "I'll try to keep my clothes on."

[bevanne46]

Various Log Cabin Quilt Blocks

[n0tamused]

꒷꒦ "Tomorrow is far away"ˊˎ-

Contents: Mydei x GN!Reader, comfort fluff

Words: 363

Soft steady breaths acted as your pillow in the form of Mydei’s bare chest. There was darkness in Okhema for once, thanks to the heavy and thick curtains that blocked out the light from the outside. It felt easy to slip into a tranquil state between waking and sleep while being nuzzled into his warm skin, although your hand seemed restless on his chest as it traced invisible patterns on his skin. The two of you barely had the time to spend on one another, strung up on duty and the constant state of alarm; however natural the state of anticipation and adrenaline was for Mydei, it inevitably exhausted his strength as well. His chest rose and fell with each slow, deep breath that marked his sleep, one heavy arm curved around your midriff and the other laid beside him. In a fine thread of a thought, you admitted to yourself that you were restless, no matter your own exhaustion, but you wished to commit this feeling to memory, knowing another period of separation awaited. Mydei’s hand touched up your back, sensing your inner turmoil but he was helpless to quell it - if he could pluck the anxiety from your head and cast it to the depths of an ocean, he would. But all he can offer now is touch, the safety of his arms while he was here. His sleep had thinned out just enough to tell you apart from the visions behind his eyelids, he could feel your breath against his collarbone and he drew you in closer, turning so he was laying on his side instead, both arms now around you. The bed dipped around the both of you, half swallowing you in its feathery comforts.  His husky whisper broke through the man-made darkness all the while his fingers traced up and down your spine “Rest..” “Tomorrow awaits us.. You need to be well rested..”  You nosed your way into his neck, hiding away even from the little light that managed to squirm through the curtains and exhaled, tense shoulders relaxing under his ministrations. There was nothing else you could do but accept this moment and pretend tomorrow was far away. 

Ⓒ n0tamused/jarttavia_. Do not repost, translate, edit, and/or copy any of my works. Likes, comments, and reblogs are appreciated.

[lilithlounge]

Venus Retrograde 2025 – Love on Rewind, Chaos on the Horizon

Mark your calendars, lovers and ex-lurkers! From March 1 to April 12, 2025, Venus...the planet of love, beauty, money, and self-worth is going retrograde, meaning all things romance, relationships, and finances are about to get a cosmic reality check.

And this isn’t just any Venus retrograde. Oh no. This one starts in Aries (March 1 - March 27)—the bold, impulsive, burn-it-all-down-to-build-it-up sign—before diving headfirst into the watery, mystical mess of Pisces (March 27 - April 12). Translation? We’re going from “I don’t need you, I’ll set your car on fire” energy to “I still love you, let’s soul merge” energy real quick.

March 1 - March 27: Venus Retrograde in Aries – The Bold Bitch Era™

This is not your soft, poetic love story. This is love on steroids, then withdrawal. Aries is ruled by Mars, so Venus here is already aggressive, impulsive, and unapologetic. But when she starts moonwalking backward? Expect:

- Exes reappearing like they’ve got unfinished business (Spoiler: they do, and it’s messy)

-Sudden urges to end relationships dramatically (Blocking, deleting, "accidentally" sending that risky text? Yep.)

-Impulse spending that will haunt your bank account in April (No, you don’t need that $500 leather jacket.)

-Dramatic makeovers that may or may not be a regret later (Shaving your head? Piercing something? Think it through, babe.)

-Toxic relationship patterns coming back to test you (Did you really heal, or are you just ignoring the red flags?)

Best Advice? Pause before you act. Aries energy wants it NOW, but retrograde means it needs RECONSIDERATION. Don’t throw away something (or someone) just because you’re in your feelings.

March 27 - April 12: Venus Retrograde in Pisces – The Delusional Romance Era™

After all that chaotic, burn-it-down energy, Venus slips into Pisces, where she romanticizes the pain, writes a poem about it, and forgives everyone, sometimes too quickly.

-Dreamy nostalgia, missing people you swore you were over (Why does their name keep showing up in songs?)

-Old flames reappearing with “I’ve changed” speeches (Have they? Or is it just Neptune clouding your judgment?)

-Crying over movies, songs, and that one text from 2017 (If you suddenly feel like a poet, blame Venus.)

-Spiritual connections intensifying, twin flame chasers, this is your moment (Or your downfall. Choose wisely.)

-Illusions in love, seeing people as you want them to be, not as they are (Don’t settle for potential. Look at the reality.)

Best Advice? Don’t let the rose-colored glasses fool you. Love should feel magical, but not at the cost of your boundaries or self-respect.

So..... what should you do?

-Reflect, don’t react. Venus retrograde is about reassessing love, money, and self-worth, not making impulsive decisions.

-Avoid major beauty or financial changes. The haircut can wait. The new relationship can too.

-If an ex pops up, ask yourself: Why now? Not every “second chance” is meant to be taken.

-Focus on healing, not reattaching. If you’re missing someone, is it them or the idea of them?

-Don’t start a new relationship until Venus goes direct. Love formed in a retrograde often comes with karmic lessons (aka drama).

Final Thoughts – Buckle Up, It's a Ride

This Venus retrograde will test your patience, your heart, and your ability to avoid chaos. Some connections will burn, some will deepen, and some will make a dramatic return just to mess with your head.

By April 12, you’ll know what (and who) is worth your time and what you need to leave behind for good.

Feeling lost in love? Need clarity on an ex or a fated connection? I offer detailed astrology readings to help you navigate this retrograde without losing your mind. DM me or check my Ko-Fi, Buy Me A Coffee for a personal reading!

[anakinca]

CLAYTON BERESFORD sitting in Victoria secret changing room, watching us put a lingerie on we chose (but he's not looking with lust but more in admiration and true, pure love cus I'm tired of ppl chosing lust over pure feelings) and helps us with the corset and he's just can't help himself and kisses our exposed back and shoulder :((((

—❝endlessly tender❞

clayton beresford x reader

tw ; nothing, just pure fluff

a/n ; kay so bunny i was literally prancing around my room when i got this cause my LORD it lowkey saved me from my horrible writers block 😭😭 BUT YAH I HAD A LOT OF FUN MAKING THIS SOOOO ENJOY, ANGELS <33

THE LIGHTING IN THE VICTORIA’S SECRET CHANGING ROOM WAS SOFT AND WARM. It casted a gentle glow over the blush-pink walls and mirrored surfaces. The air smelled faintly of vanilla and roses, and the world outside the door seemed to blur into insignificance.

Clayton sat on the plush velvet sofa in the corner of the small room, his long legs stretched out in front of him, his posture relaxed but his gaze attentive. He—being the businessman he is—negotiated with the saleslady at the front desk to let you two have the changing room to yourselves for only an hour.

You stood in front of the mirror, smoothing out the delicate fabric of the lingerie set you’d chosen. The soft lace hugged your body, the light catching on the intricate patterns as you turned slightly to examine yourself. Behind you, Clayton sat quietly, his hands resting in his lap, his head tilted ever so slightly as he watched you.

But it wasn’t a watchful gaze born of lust or desire—it was something far deeper, far gentler. His blue eyes glimmered with admiration, and the faintest of smiles tugged at his lips as if he were seeing a masterpiece come to life.

“Clay,” you murmured a little teasingly, turning to look at him over your shoulder, your cheeks warming under the weight of his soft, unwavering gaze. “You’re staring.” You giggled, your lips curving up.

“I know,” he replied simply, his voice low and warm, like a comforting embrace. “I can’t help it. You’re…” He trailed off, shaking his head slightly as if searching for the right words. “You’re breathtaking.”

You rolled your eyes playfully, though your heart bloomed at his words. “It’s just a corset. Nothing groundbreaking.”

“Not to me,” he said softly, standing up and stepping toward you. His movements were unhurried, deliberate, as though he wanted to savor every second.

You turned back toward the mirror, tugging at one of the laces of the corset, but your fingers fumbled. Before you could try again, you felt his hands gently brush yours aside. “Let me,” he said quietly, his voice barely more than a whisper.

His fingers worked carefully, tugging the ribbons into place and fastening them with precision, his touch warm and steady against your skin. The moment felt so intimate, so tender, that you barely dared to breathe. His presence was grounding, his every move filled with a quiet reverence that made you feel cherished in a way words could never express.

When he finished, his hands lingered for a moment, his fingertips brushing lightly over the exposed skin of your back. You looked up at him through the mirror, your gaze meeting his, and the softness in his eyes made your heart ache.

“You’re perfect,” he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. He then leaned down, pressing a featherlight kiss to your bare shoulder. The warmth of his lips sent a shiver down your spine, and when he shifted slightly to kiss the curve of your back, your breath hitched. There was nothing urgent about his actions—just love, unfiltered and pure, poured into every soft touch and lingering glance.

You turned around to face him, and his hands instinctively rested on your waist. “Clay,” you whispered, your voice trembling just enough to betray how deeply he’d affected you.

He smiled, that soft, boyish smile that never failed to make your heart flutter. “I’m sorry,” he said, though there wasn’t an ounce of regret in his tone. “I couldn’t help myself.”

Your hands found their way to his face, your fingers brushing against his jawline as you looked up at him. “Don’t apologize,” you said, your voice just as soft. “I love you for it.”

His eyes softened further, and for a moment, he just looked at you—like you were the only thing in the world worth looking at. Then, slowly, he leaned down and rested his forehead against yours, his arms wrapping around you as though he wanted to shield you from the world.

“You’re everything to me,” he murmured, his voice so quiet you almost didn’t hear it.

The words settled between you, warm and gentle, and you smiled, your heart so full it felt like it might burst. “And you’re everything to me, Clayton.”

For a moment, the two of you stood there, wrapped up in each other, the rest of the world fading into irrelevance. The lace and silk, the blush-pink walls, even the mirrored reflections—all of it was secondary to the warmth and love that radiated between you.

In his arms, you felt beautiful, adored, and utterly safe. In that quiet little room, under the soft glow of the lights, you knew without a doubt that this kind of love—pure, unwavering, and endlessly tender—was the rarest and most precious thing in the galaxy.

And as his arms tightened around you, pulling you closer once more, you realized there was nowhere else in the universe you’d rather be.

@thesassypadawan @anakinstwinklebunny @sydkneez @dessxoxsworld @nikiloveshayden @sweetcheesecakesblog

let me know if you'd like to be added or removed from the tag list, angels <3

[captainsophiestark]

Bad Timing

Benedict Bridgerton x Reader

Masterlist - Join My Taglist!

Written for Fictober 2023!

Fandom: Bridgerton

Day 25 Prompt: "Do I look like I knew that?"

Summary: When Eloise needs help with a problem, she knows she can count on her brother and his new wife for help.

Word Count: 1,047

Category: Fluff, Humor

Putting work into an AI program without permission is illegal. You do not have my permission. Do not do it.

"You know, lazy days like this are by far my favorite," I mused, curling into my husband's side as we laid in bed together. "No galas, no gossip from the Ton. Just the two of us."

"I certainly have to agree," said Benedict, my husband, as he traced patterns on the bare skin of my back. "Although, I do enjoy watching Colin wade through the swarm of Mamas every time we go out, now that he is the only unwed Bridgerton son. At least until Gregory gets a bit older."

"I'd say you were being mean, but he did ditch you and Anthony for quite a while in his travels."

"Yes, he did. So he deserves this."

I laughed, shaking my head a bit at my husband's antics. A moment later, he pulled me tighter to his side, rolling us so I laid completely on top of his chest. I rose up on my elbows to meet his eyes and found him looking at me with a mischevious smile.

"You know, it's just occurred to me," he started. "There are quite a few ways I can think of that our time would be better spent than talking about my brother."

"Oh really?" I asked, grinning and leaning down closer to Benedict. "And what might those ideas be?"

"Well for starters..."

With that, he brought his hand up to the back of my neck and pulled me into a searing kiss. I rested all my weight on him, kissing right back, until a knock at the door jarred us both out of the moment.

Reluctantly, I pulled away, and Benedict let me. We shared a look.

"Maybe whoever it is will go away if we ignore them," he whispered in suggestion. As if he'd willed it into happening, a voice from the other side of the door called out.

"Y/N! If you're in there, please, I need to talk to you."

Eloise. Benedict's little sister, who I'd become close with throughout the course of Benedict courting me. I gave Benedict an apologetic look.

"No," he whined as I rolled off of him, quickly wrapping a robe around myself and heading for the door.

"I have to," I replied. "I can't ignore her. Make yourself decent."

With that, I turned from my husband and went to open the door just wide enough to see Eloise on the other side, and for her to see me.

"Oh, thank goodness!" she cried, moving to push past me and into the room. I let her, just hoping that Benedict had done as I'd said. Eloise and I had done this a few times as we'd gotten closer, and whenever it happened, I knew she really, truly needed me.

I turned around to follow Eloise back into the room after shutting the door behind me, only to find her frozen just a few steps from where she'd come in. Benedict stood next to the bed, looking tired but resigned to our new morning activity as he laced up his shirt.

"Good morning, Eloise," he said, a little edge of teasing in his tone. "You know, I was trying to enjoy the morning with my wife-"

"Do I look like I knew that?" she cried. I fought back a laugh as I walked forward to wrap my arm around her shoulder.

"It's alright, Eloise," I said. "Benedict and I were about to get up for the morning, anyway."

Benedict shot me a look with his eyebrows almost into his hairline, and I glared right back, imploring him to go along with me. He cleared his throat.

"Right. That we were. What did you need help with, sister?"

She hesitated, so I walked around to face her, putting both of my hands on her shoulders and blocking her eyeline to Benedict. I gave her a small smile, so she'd know everything was alright, then spoke in a low voice that I knew Benedict wouldn't be able to hear.

"If this is a ladies' problem, or one you don't want your brother to know about, El, I'll throw him out of here right now and we can talk, alright? But if you're embarrassed about knocking when you did, then you truly don't need to be. We love you, and we'd both drop far more important things to help you whenever you need it."

Eloise sighed, nodding a little as she did. The bright red blush that had risen to her cheeks started to fade, and she at last met my eyes again.

"Thank you. I... suppose it wouldn't hurt to have Benedict's input as well," she said. I nodded, giving her a bright smile before turning around to face my husband.

"Put your problem-solving hat on, Benedict," I said. I started drifting for the couches by Benedict's turret window, one of my favorite features of his room. "We've got a family matter to deal with."

They both beamed at me as they started following me over to the couch. I'd considered a few of Benedict's siblings as good as family for a long time now, but it felt amazing to be able to say that and have it be completely true.

Benedict and Eloise settled into the couch on either side of me, Benedict resting his arm across my shoulders. Those kinds of casual touches would've been scandalous before we were married, but now we could do them whenever we wanted to, which also made my heart sing.

Eloise gave us both one last look with a raised eyebrow, then launched into her explanation of the problem that had brought her to our doorstep, which had something to do with a boy of virtually no social status who'd caught her attention. Benedict and I spent the rest of the morning, helping her as best we could, in the way only we could.

Although I hated that Eloise had to deal with the problems she dealt with, a small part of me sang the entire morning as Benedict and I worked together, the perfect team, to help his little sister. This was going to be the rest of our lives, with Eloise and maybe someday with children of our own, and I couldn't be happier thinking about that future with Benedict. We made the perfect team.

****************

Everything Taglist: @rosecentury

[astrologydray]

😩😩Rising Signs as Style Personas: Men/masculine edition😩😩

Aries Rising – The Alpha Statement-Maker

• Athletic streetwear, combat boots, muscle-fit tees, bomber jackets, and jeans. elements like leather, denim, and statement pieces. tailored pieces like blazers, jackets with sharp lines, and well-fitting pants

• Red, black, and bold colors; Don't shy away from other bold hues like orange, yellow, and hot pink. strong silhouettes. experiment with unique looks. faux fur, animal prints, or distressed fabrics

• Sporty meets rebel energy (think: leather jackets, fitted joggers) Edgy & Trendsetting. Bold & Eye-catching

• Vibe: Confident, daring, always ahead of the trend

What to Avoid Wearing:

• Anything too soft, pastel-heavy, or romantic. Oversized fits that hide your assertive build

• Overly neutral or “quiet luxury” that feels passive

Taurus Rising – The Luxe Earth-Toned Classic

• Cozy, high-end fabrics (cashmere, suede, organic cotton). Well-made, durable pieces. such as well-tailored suits, quality leather shoes, and classic accessories

• Earth tones (greens, and deep blues) neutrals, olive, cream, chocolate brown

• a refined, understated style rather than overly trendy or flashy looks. a classic watch, a simple bracelet, or a quality leather belt as key accessories. Quality over Quantity

• Vibe: Rich, warm, slow fashion king

What to avoid Wearing:

• Loud logos, synthetic materials, or cheap fabrics. Anything too uncomfortable or overly trendy

• Harsh color blocking—stick to soft blends and textures

Gemini Rising – The Whimsical Chameleon

• Layered streetwear, bucket hats, mixed patterns

• Pops of color (especially yellow, mint, light blue). Their fashion choices may reflect their intellectual curiosity and love for communication

• Y2K, vintage, or experimental fashion hybrids giving Versatility and Adaptability.

• Vibe: Playful, unpredictable, and always current

What to Avoid Wearing:

• Super serious or corporate looks that mute your playful energy. All-black or monochrome outfits too often

• Stiff fabrics—flexibility is key

Cancer Rising – The Soft-Edged Romantic

• Vintage sweaters, cozy textures, warm layers. incorporating elements from the past into their fashion vintage or retro

• Soft neutrals, seafoam green, rose tones. pastels, moonlit shades, and blues, including cerulean, sky, lapis, teal, or even arctic.

• Casual elegance—button-ups over tees, wool coats, Cozy Knits and Oversized Sweaters. Heirloom Jewelry: Add a touch of personal history and significance

• Vibe: Emotionally stylish, intimate, nostalgic

What to Avoid Wearing:

• Harsh lines or icy fashion aesthetics. Clothes that feel too “masculine-coded” or rigid

• Cold, metallic color palettes

Leo Rising – The Regal Showman

• Statement pieces, bold patterns, gold jewelry, bold watches, stylish sunglasses, Gold necklaces, eye-catching rings

• Designer streetwear, custom tailoring, dramatic coats. A sharp, well-fitting suit in a rich color. Luxurious fabrics like velvet or silk, satin

• Jewel tones like gold, crimson, and royal blue or yellow, orange, red, and magenta

• Vibe: Spotlight-ready, never underdressed

What to Avoid Wearing:

• Super plain fits, especially if they mute your presence. Cheap or flimsy materials—your aura deserves more

• Neutral palettes that erase your shine

Virgo Rising – The Clean Precisionist

• Sharp tailoring, neat fits, elevated casual wear, polished and put-together look

• Crisp whites, navy, beige, olive, brown, green, blue, and tan

• Structured pieces: polos, chinos, trench coats

• Vibe: Minimalist, intentional, impossibly clean

What to Avoid Wearing:

• Cluttered or chaotic patterns. Oversized, sloppy streetwear (unless it’s tailored)

• Trendy, throwaway fashion without purpose

Libra Rising – The Harmonized Prettyboy

• Matching sets, silk shirts, perfect layering. Quality chinos, button-down shirts, and cashmere sweaters

• Soft pastels, balanced color blocking, clean sneakers, Dusty rose, deep coral, and midnight blue.

• Stylish with romantic undertones (scents, grooming, accessories) shades like watermelon, coral, punch, fuschia, and strawberry pink. Denim, berry, indigo, spruce, peacock, and navy blue are also good options.

• Vibe: Effortless charm, aesthetically gifted

What to Avoid Wearing:

• Mismatched patterns, clunky shoes, or dirty details. Harsh “alpha” fits that throw off your balanced energy

• Outfits that look too rushed or undone

Scorpio Rising – The Intense Icon

• All-black everything, dark denim, leather boots. Deep reds, black, purples, maroons, and burgundies. Denim, berry, indigo, spruce, peacock, and navy

• Fitted pieces, trench coats, silver jewelry. leather, velvet, and satin

• Sexy without trying: mesh, open collars, deep V’s

• Vibe: Mysterious, powerful, hard to read

What to Avoid Wearing:

• Bright neons or loud graphic tees.. Overly “friendly” or bubbly fashion

• Excessively baggy clothing that hides your allure

Sagittarius Rising – The Explorer Adventurer

• Layered flannels, denim jackets, printed shirts, hats, scarves, statement jewelry, or unique belts to complete their looks

• Rustic color palettes: burgundy, navy, forest green

• Hiking boots, lived-in leather, festival fits. Bohemian/Eclectic touches: elements like flowy silhouettes, ethnic prints, or vintage-inspired pieces.

• Vibe: World-traveled, spontaneous, cultural

What to Avoid Wearing:

• Overly structured or restrictive fashion. Repetitive looks—your style thrives on movement

• Anything you can’t breathe or run in

Capricorn Rising – The Power Dresser

• Executive neutrals, high-end tailoring, quiet luxury

• Fitted turtlenecks, crisp blazers, designer watches, Dark wash jeans, White button-downs and polo shirts . Classic coats and jackets in neutral colors

• Black, charcoal, taupe, forest green, navy, gray, and white, browns, ochres, and dark greens

• Vibe: CEO energy, rich and respected

What to Avoid Wearing:

• Over-the-top streetwear or cartoonish prints. Messy or rebellious fashion

• Inexpensive-looking fabrics that clash with your prestige

Aquarius Rising – The Style Alien

• Futuristic fashion, unique color pairings, gender-fluid silhouettes. embracing trends early and can even be trendsetters

• Metallics, layered chains, cyberpunk or thrifted one-of-ones

• Iridescent, bold accessories, and asymmetry

• Vibe: Unpredictable, iconic, walking Pinterest board

What to Avoid Wearing:

• Basic “mall fashion” or generic trends. Super traditional or stiff, conservative clothes

• Anything too normal—you’re built to defy boxes

Pisces Rising – The Ethereal Artist

• Linen, cotton, and silk. soft textures, layered neutrals, artistic accessories, relaxed fits, and unique accessories like beaded necklaces or woven belts; Bohemian & Eclectic Touches

• Colors like seafoam, lavender, ivory, ocean blue, blues, in general, greens, purples and softer pastels.

• Dreamy fits: oversized sweaters, scarves, painter pants, linen shirts,

• Vibe: Poetic, imaginative, unbothered by the real world

What to Avoid Wearing:

• Harsh lines or stiff, military-inspired fits. Strong neon or heavy black on black—too harsh

• Super minimalist looks that erase your softness