#she needs to steal credit cards and shop SHE DESERVES ALL THE OUTFITS

[bugeyedfreaks]

I just like drawing her in fun outfits that look nice, I’m sorry. ❤️☠️

[fanfics4all]

Arranged Marriage

Request: Yes / No 

Requests are closed <3 Have a nice day/night

Draco Malfoy x Fem!Parkinson!Reader 

Word count: 2320

Warnings: Nothing I think?

Y/N: Your Name 

A/N: Possibly making this into a short series.  Bingo card made by @slyttherins

PLEASE DO NOT STEAL MY WORK, I WORK HARD ON MY FICS AND IT’S NOT COOL TO STEAL SOMEONE ELSE’S WORK! 

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(Not my photo, credit to whoever made it!)

I had a free period and like most I spent it in the Great Hall reading a book. My slightly older sister was sitting with her friends at the other end of the table. They all hated me since I was the complete opposite of Pansy. She was mean, loud, had to be the center of attention, dramatic, and wasn’t incredibly bright. Despite all that I still loved her, even if I was one of her victims. The two of us only shared one thing, our crush on Draco Malfoy. Although she never knew about that and I would never tell her. 

I was enjoying my book when a letter landed in front of me. I closed my book and glanced at it confused. My family’s owl sat on the table in front of me. I picked up the letter with my family’s crest stamped in emerald green wax and opened it. 

‘Y/N,

Your Mother and I decided to arrange a marriage for you. We are concerned that if you make a decision like this on your own, you will make the wrong decision. It is no secret that we are disappointed in your association choices. Because of that, you are going to marry Draco Malfoy. Next time you return home, you will be engaged. Once you both graduate you will be married and produce heirs for both our households. This is to ensure the blood-line. 

~Philip’

I stared at the letter with wide eyes. I glanced over at Draco, who was reading a letter of his own. I turned my attention back to my book and decided to ignore the letter until I returned home. 

“What’s in the letter Drakie?” Pansy asked and I rolled my eyes at her horrid nickname for him. 

“Nothing, just Father informing me of a dinner party we’ll be having next time I return home.” He answered her. I was surprised he didn’t tell her, or maybe his family didn’t tell him his fate yet… 

Later that night, after all classes and dinner had been finished, I was sitting in the corner of the common room working on homework. It was really just me in here, besides a few first years. However, when the door opened and Draco walked in everyone’s eyes were on him. 

“Everyone out.” He said and all the first years scurried off to who knows where. I simply stayed in my place, ignoring his command. 

“Parkinson.” He said and I glanced up to find him standing in front of me now. 

“Can I help you?” I asked. 

“I’m sure you got a letter telling you about our situations as well.” He said and I simply nodded. So he did just choose not to tell my sister. Interesting… 

“You better not tell anyone about this.” He said and I looked back down at my homework. 

“I wasn’t planning on it.” I said, simply. 

“Because if you do- wait, what?” He asked, cutting himself off. 

“I said I wasn’t planning on it. My Father didn’t tell my sister for a reason and honestly I’d rather her not know until it’s too late. I don’t need her bullying to get any worse, or yours for that matter. So, we can just pretend it isn’t happening until the dinner, then we’ll figure it out from there. I wouldn’t want to stain your reputation you’ve worked so hard to preserve.” I said, not even sparing him a glance. I wanted him to know I didn’t care, even though I was a bit excited to be marrying him. 

“Um, right. Well then, till the dinner.” He said and left me to be. 

The months leading up to the dinner felt like nothing had changed. I suppose nothing has changed yet. Draco was still a bully along with his friends and I was their helpless victim. My sister still clung to Draco any chance and he was still annoyed by her actions. A very small part of me wanted to rub it in her face that I was the one to be marrying him, but I wasn’t that type of person. When it was finally time to return home for a short time, I spent the whole train ride thinking about the dinner to come. When everyone stepped off the train, Pansy hugged Draco goodbye and then she made her way over to our parents. 

“Girls! How has school been?” Mother asked with a smile. 

“It’s been alright, that Potter boy is incredibly annoying. Just because he ‘survived’ the Dark Lord’s attack he’s special? He was a bloody baby.” Pansy said, rolling her eyes. 

“He doesn’t want the fame.” I said. 

“You would know, traitor!” She hissed. 

“Enough girls!” Father said and I bowed my head. 

“Sorry Father…” I said, even though I never truly did anything wrong I always felt like I needed to apologize constantly. 

“There will be no fighting while you are home, is that understood?” He said. 

“Yes Father.” We said in unison. 

“Good, now let’s go home.” He said. 

A few days had gone by and my parents hadn’t mentioned anything about the dinner to me. I was sitting in the den reading, while my Mother was having a cup of tea and my Father was reading the paper. 

“Pansy, come down here please!” Father called her. 

“Yes?” She asked, walking into the room. 

“Aunt Paisley wanted to take you shopping tonight, would you like to go?” He asked. 

“Is Y/N coming?” She asked. 

“No, just you.” He answered and her eyes lit up. 

“Really? Just me and Auntie?” She asked and Father nodded. 

“Oh yes! I’d love to go!” She said and rushed upstairs to get ready. 

“Hurry dear! Your Aunt is already waiting for you!” Mother called. 

“I’ll be finished in a moment!” She called back. Sure enough after ten minus she was back downstairs, dressed to go out. It was the fastest I’ve ever seen her get ready.

“Right, take some floo powder and go to her house, she’s waiting for you there.” Father said and she nodded. 

“She said you can stay the night if you’d like.” Mother mentioned. 

“Oh yes please!” Pansy said, happily. She gave me a nasty smirk before taking some powder and saying our Aunt’s house. Off she went to have a nice night out with our Aunt. 

“Now, you go upstairs and get ready, your Mother picked out a dress for you to wear tonight.” Father said and I looked at my parents confused. 

“Ready for what?” I asked. 

“The dinner, we’re going to Malfoy Manor.” He answered and I was even more confused. 

“Why isn’t Pansy coming?” I asked. 

“Because, as much as we love your sister, we don’t want to hear her complain about your engagement for the rest of our lives. So she’ll find out when we’ve already planned the wedding and you two are getting married.” He answered and I couldn’t hold back my smile. 

“You’re lucky Draco didn’t tell her when he got his letter.” I said, placing my book on the table and went off to my room. Laying on my bed was a simple emerald green dress, with a slit down the side, and silver accents on both wrists. There were a pair of simple silver heels to match. I smiled at the outfit, it was really quite beautiful. Once I was dressed I did a simple spell to get my hair and makeup perfect. 

I walked downstairs and my parents were both ready to go. My Mother offered me her hand which I accepted and the three of us apparated to Malfoy Manor. The sky was already starting to darken, but the sun still peaked out, giving the sky a beautiful painting of pinks, purples, oranges, and yellows. We walked up the steps and my Father knocked on the door. A house-elf answered and I smiled, earring a glare from my Father. I bowed my head, he never liked how well I treated them. He always said those creatures deserve no kindness. I thought differently, house-elves deserved plenty of kindness, after all they’re very helpful. I always snuck into the kitchen at night and had lovely conversations with our house-elves, being careful not to catch the attention of anyone else in the house. 

“Mr. Parkinson, Mrs. Parkinson, Miss. Parkinson, please come in.” The little house-elf said. 

“Wolkey will inform Master of your arrival.” He said and left to get the Malfoys. 

“Ah, Philip, Oliva, Y/N, so glad you could make it.” Lucius said while shaking my Father’s hand. 

“What a lovely dress Y/N, don’t you think so Draco.” Narcissa said, gently nudging her son. 

“Yes, it’s a very lovely color on you.” He smiled, but it didn’t quite meet his eyes. 

“Thank you.” I smiled. 

The dinner was normal, our parents discussing business relations while Draco and I simply ate. It wasn’t until dinner was cleared and dessert was being served that the atmosphere changed. 

“I believe Draco has something to ask you Y/N.” Narcissa said with a smile. Draco cleared his throat and walked over to me on the other side of the table. He gently grabbed my hand and kept his other in his pocket. 

“Y/N, we’ve known each other since we were children and you’ve always been such a beauty. We’ve been friends for a while, but now I feel we should be more. Will you do me the honor of being my wife?” He asked. I could tell they weren’t his words, but they still made my heart flutter. Everyone looked at me expectantly, like I could say anything other than yes. 

“Yes Draco, I’d love to.” I smiled. Draco smiled and took out a sliver snake ring with a small emerald, the Malfoy family crest engraved on the bottom. 

Draco took my hand and placed the ring on my finger. 

“Draco, why don’t you take Y/N into the garden, I’m sure she’ll love it.” Narcissa said and Draco nodded. He gently helped me up and led me outside to the porch, looking over the garden. 

“That was all my Mother.” He stated as soon as we were away from our families. 

“I know.” I smiled at him and he looked at me confused. 

“How can you smile in a moment like this? You’re being forced into a marriage.” He asked confused. 

“I can tell you Mother picked out all the flowers.” I said, changing the subject. Before he could say anything I walked down the steps into the garden. 

“Hey! Wait!” He said and followed after me. 

“Will you answer my question?” He said, slightly annoyed. 

“Have you ever looked around here and really took notice of the beauty in your backyard?” I asked. 

“I’ve looked around here plenty if that’s what you’re asking.” He said, rolling his eyes. 

“Oh look, you have some wilting flowers.” I frowned. I kneeled down and cupped the flowers gently. 

“What are you doing? You’ll get your dress dirty.” He said, but I ignored him. 

“Herbivicus” I whispered and the flowers grew to their original form. I stood up and smiled, glancing at Draco who had a shocked expression on his face. 

“Where did you learn that?” He asked. 

“A book I read.” I answered. 

“You learned that just from a book?” He asked. 

“Yes, I have an eidetic memory. I remember everything I’ve read or what people have said to me.” I answered and looked down at my dress. There were some dirt spots, my parents would be upset with me. 

“Scourgify” I said and my dress was good as new. 

“The reason I can smile about our situation is because I’ll be making my parents proud for the first time since they’ve heard I’m friends with people they call traitors. I love my family, even my sister, shocking as that is, family is important to me and I’d like to make them proud of me. So if marrying you is what it takes then so be it. Perhaps we could even fall in love with each other, or even just be friends.” I finally answered his question. 

“You really are quite strange, aren’t you?” He said after a moment. 

“I just think on the positive side.” I smiled at him. 

“We can’t tell my sister until the very last minute, by the way, my parents don’t want to hear her complaints.” I mentioned and he gave a light chuckle. 

“I suppose even they don’t enjoy her company.” He said and I shook my head. 

“They love her, but yes, sometimes they don’t enjoy her complaining.” I answered. 

“How are you going to explain the ring?” He asked. 

“A surprise gift from my Aunt, that’s where Pansy is right now.” I answered and he gave another light chuckle. 

“Smart.” He said. 

“What if she tries to take it from you?” He asked. 

“You know my sister well.” I giggled. 

“My Father is going to spell the ring so only you or I can take it off. And if I need to take it off for whatever reason I have a spelled jewelry box, she’ll need my voice, DNA, and wand to get it open.” I answered with a smirk. 

“Very smart.” He said, slightly shocked. 

“I like to take caution when it comes to my sister. It’s a very beautiful ring, thank you.” I smiled.

“It’s tradition that the Malfoy proposing makes a special ring with the crest engraved on it. My Mother had it made, but asked for my opinion before it was finished.” He said and I smiled at him. 

“Still think this is a bad thing?” I asked. 

“Suppose there could be worse people to be forced to marry…” He said. 

“I’ll take that as a complement.” I said and stared down at the ring that fit perfectly on my finger. This was really happening. I was going to marry Draco Malfoy.

Tag list: @les-bio-lie​ @tashy-bear​ @ashwarren32​ @hollie-blogs-blog1​ @schisbro87​ @lover-of-books-and-teas​ @nerdygaloresposts​ @teenwolfbitches2​ @genius2050​ @drw0301bieber​ @lady-of-lies​ @ravenmoore14​ @ravenempress101​ @cillianchamp​ @rowanthomasknapp​ @rachelxwayne​ @in-slytherin-we-trust​ @accio-rogers​ @sambucky8​ @bruisedfists-and-splitlips @answer-the-sirens​ @andreasworlsboring101​ @vanessa-kom-skaikru​ @impulse-anchor​ @dracoswhvre​

[amor-immortalem]

Can I Stay Up Here With You Forever ch.4

Previous

Taglist: @mediocredetective

Warnings: Mentions of past child abuse and neglect

“So, what’s the plan for today? Or are we jus’ stayin’ home all day?” Mammon asks as he lugs the suitcase he brought with him into the bedroom and opened some dresser drawers to put his clothes away.

“I figured we could go out and explore more of the city together. Plus, I want to get a few more pieces of furniture to fill out the house.” Arella runs a hand through her hair as she stretches. “Breakfast was great, by the way. Thank you.”

“I’m sure it wasn’t that good- not compared to last night’s dinner anyway...”

“Don’t put yourself down like that, Honey.” The human gets off the bed to hunt for some clothes of her own. “You’re cooking is good, okay?”

He nods slowly. “Not if you ask my brothers though... One of ‘em always has something ta say ‘bout it- and none of its good. Even Beel has complaints sometimes.”

She frowns in response. “Well, I’ll have you know I genuinely enjoy your cooking. I wouldn’t mind if you cooked for us more often.”

Another nod from the demon as he returns to his task of emptying out his suitcase and Arella continues her search for the perfect outfit.

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“Where is he, Solomon,” The Avatar of Pride questions the sorcerer as he stands in the foyer of Purgatory Hall.

“I’ve already told you, Lucifer.” Solomon replies with a smile on his face. “I don’t exactly know. The human world is the best answer I can give you.”

The demon studies the human for a moment to deduce whether or not he’s lying about know where Mammon is. “Where in the human world?”

“I don’t know. Arella wouldn’t tell me where exactly she was summoning him to.” It’s a tiny lie. Of course, he knew exactly where they were, but Lucifer didn’t need to know that. “I have no reason to lie to you, Lucifer, but why exactly is it that you want to find your brother so badly?”

“I want to... apologize for my actions. It seems, after further review of the situation, that I was wrong. The bill I received was full of fraudulent charges to his credit card. Does that change your answer?” The first-born narrows his eye as the silver-haired sorcerer shook his head. “Then I’ll be off. If you hear anything, I want to be the first to hear about it.

Solomon only nodded, an amused smile playing on his lips. He wondered just how long it would take the demon to pinpoint Mammon and Arella’s location.

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They bounced from shop to shop throughout the day finding many cute trinkets and knick-knacks on their journey. The cutest ones- and Mammon’s personal favorite- was a set of crows sitting on a tree branch together, their bodies turned away with their heads pressed together so that they formed the shape of a heart. He instantly picked it up after Arella made the comment that the crows were representative of them and their love.

As their small shopping spree came down to an end, they had stopped to take a break in a park, just taking a moment to rest and enjoy the beautiful day. It filled Mammon with a warm feeling he wasn’t quite sure he could name just yet so he just opted to hold her hand as they relaxed on the park bench as a few small families played nearby.

His attention in particular was pulled to one certain family: A mother and father with their three boys. Watching them drug up a desire he thought he’d never have.

“Hey, babe,” He starts quietly.

“Yes, Love?” she hums in response.

“Do... Do ya want kids...?”

“Do you?” Arella replies with a question of her own, green eyes peering up at the demon.

“I asked you first.”

With a chuckle she answers, “Yes... having children with you wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world. I’d love to one day down the road. How many do you want?”

“Just one would be good enough,” He smiles, resting his cheek against the top of her head as they sit there in peace for a while longer.

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Sitting in his office, attempting to keep his mind off Mammon, Lucifer was working on his ever-growing stack of paperwork. It wasn’t working and something in the back of the demon’s mind was gnawing at him. Something Arella had said to him roughly a month ago about stealing his brother away to the human realm and never returning. A laughable idea for as much as he knew she wasn’t joking; she really held no power to make that decision. Mammon was a demon- one of the seven lords of hell. His place was here in the Devildom whether she liked it or not. Mammon himself had to realize this was all pointless eventually and then he would come home and that would be the end of it. Or at least that’s what Lucifer hoped anyway. He really didn’t want to have to drag his brother back here kicking and screaming.

Stepping away from the old, worn-out desk, the eldest decides a break for tea and a phone call might do better to take his mind of things for the time being.

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Putting up her dusty old tomes on various mythologies of the ancient past, Aubrie could just barely hear the phone. Hopping down off the ladder, the mythologist swiped up the device- a gift from the only demon in her contacts. He was lucky she didn’t have it turned off like she usually did while she was working.

“Good evening, Lucifer,” Holding the shiny D.D.D. to her ear, she answered with a chirp. “To what do I owe the honor?”

“Good evening, Aubrie.” Lucifer’s voice is smooth as silk and Aubrie has to wonder if he just naturally talks like that or he was using that ‘seductive speechcraft’ Arella had mentioned some time ago to get whatever it was that he wanted from their conversation. “Have you spoken to Arella recently?”

“I have. You know she just moved from England, right?” The ginger chirps. “I texted with her this morning to see how it went.”

“Actually, I didn’t.” The Avatar of Pride hummed as he sipped on his tea. “That’s interesting. Where abouts did she move?”

“I wish I knew. The best I can say is somewhere in mainland Europe,” Aubrie lets out a sigh. “I want to go visit her. I can’t imagine how lonely it is to move to an entirely different country where you’re alone- although for Arella that’s pretty on character...”

“She does seem independent,” Lucifer hums, “I’m sure she’ll be fine. Actually, that’s part of the reason I called. I’m sure she told you that my brother’s with her when you spoke earlier... I need her to send him back. He can’t be missing so much school- his grades are already abysmal to begin with and the longer she keeps him up there, the worse they’ll get. Plus, I have things I need to talk with him about.”

“She's worried about his safety with you, Lucifer. Apparently, you broke his elbow somehow? Or something to that effect.”

“I didn’t break his elbow. No, he did that on his own by falling on it, but my actions helped lead to it so I have some blame in it.” The black-haired demon sighs, “That’s why I’m looking for them. I want to apologize to Mammon- he didn’t exactly deserve what I did that led up to him breaking his elbow.”

The human nods at that. “And here I thought you would be too proud to apologize.” She teased.

“If it were anyone other than my brothers, maybe.” He admits. “But in their own way, each of my brothers are important to me. We’ve been together for eons. Losing a single one of them would be devastating to our family, Aubrie. Like right now, the house has been too quiet and dark since Mammon left for the human realm. Things aren’t right until he comes home.”

“I see, but if you knew your brother would be happier up here in the human world with Arella... would you let him go?”

“I can’t- and it's not because I don’t want him to be happy, quite the opposite, actually- if we were not of such high rank and standing, then I would be content to allow Mammon to follow what makes him happy- whether that be here in the Devildom or up in the human world to allow him to live amongst the humans.”

“What do you mean?”

“I'm sure Arella has told you about our rank here in the devildom. We’re each to rule over a layer of Hell once we leave RAD in a few years. Mammon has a responsibility to the Devildom as Lord of the Fourth Layer. It's not a thing that he can just leave behind in favor of spending the rest of his human’s minimal lifespan up in the mortal realm.”

“You could be less harsh on him though. I know our morals on what is wrong and right are different and it’s foolish for us to force our morals on to literal demons from some of the stories she mentions about the way you all treat your brother... Well, it sounds like abuse to me and for someone like Arella, that’s very triggering for her.”

“What do you mean by that?” Lucifer’s interest was piqued at the human’s words. He knew next to nothing about Arella’s past before the exchange program and she never talks about her past to begin with so having the opportunity to hear about it was enticing to the Avatar of Pride.

“Her home life when we were children was... less than happy. Her mother was physically, emotionally, and verbally abusive as well as neglectful. I have plenty of pictures from when we were children where she’s covered in bruises, black eyes, busted lips. She would never say anything against her mother so protective services couldn’t do anything for her, but we all knew that woman was the cause of them. So you see, the way you treat your brother drudges up all that old trauma for her and that’s why she behaves the way she does. Wouldn’t you do the same thing if you were in her shoes, Lucifer?”

“You’re not wrong.” He goes to take another sip of his tea but the cup is empty. “This was nice and also very insightful. I have to go now, enjoy the rest of your evening, Aubrie.”

“Thank you, Love. You too. Make sure to go to bed a reasonable time tonight.” There was a short pause on her end before Aubrie began sputtering apologies and trying to back pedal her way out of that embarrassing situation and the line eventually just cut off.

Lucifer couldn’t help but laugh softly at the ridiculousness of it all. Humans sure were a funny creature.

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Next

Find more writings on my masterlist

[stranger-writer]

A Bowers’ Bet (Part 3)

Sorry for the long wait on this one! I hope you enjoy!

Summary: When Henry and Patrick make a twisted pact on who can steal Derry High’s most inexperienced student’s virginity first, they think it will be their most exciting game yet. But what happens when one starts to develop feelings, while the other is determined as ever to win, no matter what or who is standing in their way? A Bowers Bet (Part 2)

On Saturday morning, Juliet’s parents left for an overnight for one of her father’s business trips. Her mom typically went along with him, but only if it consisted of a night or two and if Jennifer’s mother was going along as well. Juliet met her close friend Jennifer through their dads since they both worked for the same company. Their families were persistent in upholding their respectable, high status in Derry. Jennifer’s mom, Theresa, was a lawyer, a very dignified woman that Juliet quite admired. However in Jennifer’s case, having two successful parents who were hardly ever home meant coping with her loneliness by excessively and maybe even purposely, using her parent’s credit card when they were gone. 

Juliet knew a shopping trip was in order, Jennifer always planned one whenever both parents were out of town. Even though the two girls have been best friends for years, their personalities couldn’t be any more polar opposite. Jennifer’s track record of guys is impressive while Juliet’s is clean, Jennifer cheerleads while Juliet is in literary club, Jennifer is the life of the party while Juliet has only been to two in her lifetime. But that’s kind of what makes their friendship work. They each have a tendency of balancing each other out and sometimes bringing out different side to them that no one would expect.

Juliet has the devil on her right shoulder and the angel on her left as she sat in the car with Jennifer, deciding if she should tell her about Henry or just keep her mouth shut. Deep down she knew what her reaction would be, but maybe if she explained everything from the poem and how wonderful last night went, she’d understand. Although at the moment, Jennifer was much too preoccupied with going on and on about how Gretta was sabotaging her by making the cheer team wear their hair entirely up instead of having the option to do half up, half down.

“The whole school is going to see my huge fucking dumbo ears because she needs the attention taken off of her horrendous overbite,” Jennifer hisses before changing the radio station. Juliet quietly chuckles at her as the only sound between them is the low hum of Mick Jagger and the harsh wind from the windows being slightly open.

 “You’re quiet,” Jennifer states in her typical blunt manner, eyes on the road, being able to read Juliet without even having to look at her. 

“No I’m not,” Juliet defends, staring out the window, knowing if she as much glances towards her direction she’ll crack.

“Juliet we have known each other since we were eight. At this point, I know you almost better than I know myself. Tell.” 

Juliet slowly turns her head towards her while biting down on her lip, trying to hide her immense blushing and smirk just from the thought of Henry before letting out a soft giggle. Jennifer begins to gasp, knowing the look on Juliet’s face means only one thing. “Stop it right now! Who’s the guy?!” Jennifer rushes, her eyes widening with pure anticipation.

“Well...,” Juliet hums smiling, causing Jennifer to slightly swerve the car a little too far to the right.  

“Juliet,” Jennifer warns in her typical voice that means “stop beating around the bush and say it.” 

“W-well it’s just like, Ugh-I don’t know, i-it’s nothing serious yet, but-”

“For fucks sake Juliet, I hate when you stutter like that kid Bill Denbrough, just spit it out,” Jennifer demands, her patience running thin.

“I went on a date last night with Henry Bowers,” Juliet responds, causing Jennifer to slam on her brakes in the middle of the neighborhood, causing Juliet’s body to be yanked to the point where she almost got rammed into the glove compartment. “Jesus Jennifer,” Juliet scolds, rubbing the back of her neck from the sudden jolt she experienced from the abrupt stop of the car.

“Henry Bowers?” Jennifer pronounces the name slowly, her tone in disbelief mixed with a whole lot of judgement and well, repugnance. “Have you lost your mind? You were too scared to ask the waiter for ketchup last week, but you went on a date with Henry fucking Bowers? Please tell me you only went because he had you held up at gunpoint.”

Juliet knew how unbelievable it sounded coming out of her mouth, but how could she convince her that it was one of the best times out she’s ever had?

“I get it. I know his reputation, but he’s-he’s different, I swear, he-”

“God Juliet, don’t be so naive,” Jennifer interrupts, rolling her eyes. “Henry is known as Derry’s scum for a reason. He’s dirty. He’s gross. And even worse,” Jennifer pauses, her nose scrunching in disgust, “He’s poor.”

Juliet’s fingers begin to rub her temples in distress, immediately regretting her decision of even mentioning Henry to her in the first place. Jennifer finally takes her foot off the brakes and continues driving, but her rant was far from over. “I mean come on Jules, you have no idea what you’re getting yourself into. That whole gang is fucked up. They only flirt with girls like you for one reason.” Jennifer states, having a hard time deciphering how she should choose her words without being a little too brutally honest.

Juliet snaps her eyes away from the passing houses from the window and swung her head to face her. “And what’s that?” Juliet persists defensively, her eyes piercing at Jennifer.

Jennifer huffs, her stare intent while looking out onto the road contemplating what to say next. “Because you’re an easy target,” Jennifer murmurs, her voice low, but more calm. “You have never been seen at school with a boyfriend or really any guy for that matter and they can smell your inexperience from a mile away. He’s using you. I’m sorry, but guys like Henry don’t fall for girls like you.”

Juliet could feel some tears begging to break loose, but she pushes the feeling aside. “You mean girls who are at the bottom of the school’s hierarchy?”

“You know that’s not what I mean. You’re beautiful and smart and kind and deserve somebody better than Bowers. I’m just telling you his intentions can’t be good. Him and the other ones hit on every girl that has a pulse,” Jennifer responds, sticking an unlit cigarette in her mouth before she continues on and says, “They see someone shy and untouched like you giving them a chance and go fucking ecstatic.”

“That’s not true,” Juliet mutters, shaking her head in defense while staring down at her hands nestled on top of her lap. “Henry told me he would never hurt me and that I was safe with him.” There was a part of Juliet that could feel herself sounding like one of those girls she would roll her eyes at in a cheesy romance movie. Was it honestly too good to be true?

“I know you try to live your life trying not to be noticed, but guess what? You are. People see you. Henry sees you. He sees someone fragile, someone who he thinks he can easily control and manipulate.” Jennifer responds before taking a puff of her cigarette.

“You are always telling me how I should loosen up and try to put myself out there more, and now you’re giving me shit for finally going out with someone?” Juliet chides, her voice slightly raising. Juliet could tell she was getting irritated because she started talking not only loudly, but with her hands.

“Yeah Juliet, but that wasn’t secret code for me telling you to go out with the school’s biggest psychopath and not even tell me about it beforehand. What the fuck were you thinking?” Jennifer scolds, her tone harsh, making Juliet recoil in her seat. An awkward and tension-filled silence immerses in the car, causing the two close friends to suddenly feel distant.

Jennifer finally breaks the stillness and says, “Look. We’re going to the mall. Let’s get you a cute outfit for Gretta’s party tonight and you can come with me and you’ll see that you’re more than capable of meeting someone who isn’t a total delinquent.”

Juliet wanted nothing more than to decline her offer that sounded like a demand than an option, but it’s bad enough she had to keep Henry from her mother, she didn’t need Jennifer added onto the list and on her case about it as well. She thought maybe if she just went for a bit and pretended for Jennifer’s sake, she’d make everyone happy.

“Fine,” Juliet huffs, slouching back in her seat while crossing her arms.

Juliet is used to having to deal with what life throws at her alone. Between having a mother and best friend who shares similar traits of being dismissive and controlling, she felt like she was always more worried about pleasing other people instead of worrying about what actually made her happy. Henry gave Juliet a certain kind of attention that she wasn’t used to receiving from anyone. He made her feel understood, special, pretty enough, smart enough, but most importantly, Henry made Juliet feel like being herself was good enough. Juliet wasn’t going to let anybody get in the way of that. Not this time.

………………………………………………………………………………………

The last party Juliet attempted going to was last December. Similar to now, Jennifer begged and convinced her how much of a good time it’d be until it resulted in Tyler Brian barfing all over Juliet’s lap mid-conversation. She can only hope that history won’t repeat itself.

The black dress Jennifer picked for her was slightly sexy, but not too much to where it strayed far from Juliet’s character. The sweetheart neckline was cute with a very tiny black bow that was attached right in the middle. It was also a quarter sleeve and babydoll style. Jennifer pleaded that she wear heels, however, Juliet absolutely refused because she didn’t want to meet anyone new in the first place and her leather black booties would go just fine with it. To no surprise, Jennifer handled not only her wardrobe, but makeup too. She blushed and hollowed out her cheekbones, glossed her lips, and applied some cat eyeliner to enhance her eye shape, which surprisingly Juliet liked, even if she did still have to wear her glasses over them. 

Juliet’s knee was uncontrollably bouncing up and down the whole ride there. She could already hear the music blaring from outside before they even drove up to the house. Her heart almost jumped in her throat though when she saw the infamous Trans Am parked in the sea of cars that were in Gretta’s driveway, causing her leg to stop shaking. Oh no. As soon as Jennifer parked along the sidewalk, she turned the ignition off and began clapping her hands fast in an excited way. “We’re here! You ready?”

No.

“Yeah!” Juliet exclaims in her best, fake eager voice she could muster.

When they walked inside the large, red brick house, Juliet immediately sees a staircase decorated with people from school either talking, smoking, or making out. Her eyes shift to the left where it was the Keene’s living room, but was currently being occupied as a dance floor flooded with sweat, alcohol, and hormones.

Juliet didn’t want to admit to herself that she couldn’t help but feel somewhat paranoid Henry was here. Would he be happy to see her? Confused? Angry? “Let’s go grab a drink,” Jennifer yells in Juliet’s ear because of the blaring music, interrupting her thoughts. Juliet nods as they walk down the hall to where more couples were lingering on the sides of the wall, kissing.  

When Jennifer walked into the kitchen, she was immediately greeted by Gretta and a few other girls as well as a group of boys who hollered at her as soon as she stepped in. Juliet lingered by her side.

It wasn’t hard for Juliet to not feel Gretta’s typical judgemental stare as she eyed her up and down. Moments like this was the reason why Juliet would never want to be able to read minds. “Interesting seeing you here Juliet,” Gretta sneers in a tone that could only be described as condescending and then says, “Nice dress. For once it doesn’t look like something your grandmother picked out.” This causes a fit of giggles from her posse that are attached at her hip.

“Nice frizzy ponytail that you wear every single day,” Jennifer quickly intervenes before grabbing Juliet’s hand to lead her near the sink where all the glass bottles of drinks were laid out. “Your ability to be quick on the spot never fails to impress me,” Juliet smirks while nudging her shoulder with hers, earning a wink from Jennifer.

“Here,” Jennifer offers, handing Juliet a red solo cup. “It’ll ease the nerves,” she grins with a mischievous glint in her eyes before taking a sip. Juliet gave her a small smile, deciding it would be best to at least try it. Her eyebrows raise immediately at the strong concoction Jennifer mixed together, deciding it would be best to not finish this unless she wants to be found blacked out on the front lawn.

“Shots time!” Peter Macintosh shouted, his cheeks flushed from what was most likely the high amount of alcohol he has already consumed. He was a heavy set guy, who for some reason always looked sweaty and wore his jersey pretty much everyday. He was only useful on the team for his size since he could tackle just about anyone. This was Juliet’s que to relocate elsewhere for a few minutes.

“I’m going to run to the bathroom real quick,” Juliet says while lightly grasping Jennifer’s arm.

“Use the one upstairs. The bathroom that’s down the hall is always where Tommy Johnson and Pam Kirkland are fucking each other’s brains out,”Jennifer informs, physically shuddering at the thought of when she had accidentally interupted one of their sessions last time.

“Good to know,” Juliet chuckles, shaking the vivid thought away before nudging her way through the intoxicated crowd that was beginning to form. Once she reached the staircase and begins walking up them, she couldn’t help the strange feeling like someone had their eyes on her.

…………………………………………………………………………………

“Any fucking time now Criss,” Henry huffs, waiting for Vic to hand him a cigarette while he was pulling one out of his pack. He was in his usual, typical annoyed stance with his arms crossed while leaning against the house, impatient as ever. Him, Patrick, Vic, and Belch were huddled outside on the back patio smoking, each with a beer bottle in their hands. 

Casey Fletcher walked by them and Belch couldn’t help but turn around to get another last glance at her ass before turning back around to face his friends. “Is it just me or is there a lot of hot chicks here tonight?” Belch asks, swigging his beer back.

Vic nodded, seeming to still be mesmerized at Casey’s backside as Henry only shrugged. Belch and Patrick give each other a knowing look, seeing how that reaction wasn’t a normal one for Henry. This would be the part where he agreed and told them what he’d like to do with a girl who had an ass like that. But tonight he was off and they could all tell.

“What’s the matter Bowers, don’t see a bitch here we can share like last week?” Patrick taunts. Henry rolls his eyes, remembering the dumb blonde girl whose name he didn’t even know because well, he didn’t even ask. She wanted to take turns which resulted in Patrick having his first go and once he was finished he tossed her right over to Henry.

“All I see are a bunch of easy sluts who try too hard,” Henry utters under his breath, checking briefly over the girls who are standing on the other side of the pool who were unshamefully giving, as the gang would call it, their best “fuck me” eyes. 

Vic snickers before he mumbles, “Somebody’s whipped,” causing a breathy chuckle from Belch and Patrick.

“The fuck you say?” Henry asked, but it was in fact a warning.

“He said your whipped man,” Patrick responds for Vic before he continues and says, “Pretty little Juliet most have swept ole Henry here off his feet. Awh, how sweet is that?” This causes an amused reaction out of the boys. Patrick knew what he was doing. He wanted to get a rise out of Henry. He wanted to edge him on. Rile him up. Make him do something that could work out in his favor. 

“I ain’t fucking whipped alright. Has anyone forgotten that she’s just a fuckin’ bet? All I got from last night is that she’s just another needy bitch with mommy issues who’ll jump at the chance to spread her legs if it means adding some excitement to her boring life,” Henry responds, the words tasting disgusting coming out of his own mouth. He didn’t mean what he said, but he refuses to have his friends, especially Patrick, thinking she has even in the slightest, meddled her way into his stone cold heart.

Patrick however, knows his bluff. He hid in the woods and eavesdropped last night when Juliet and him were in the treehouse. He knew that she in fact wasn’t exactly easy considering she freaked the minute Bowers touched the waistband of her panties, but secondly, he knew Henry opened up a bit about his dad to her. Patrick couldn’t tell if that was a ploy to get her to feel bad for him or if he was being genuine. However his lack of eagerness to get any action tonight is evident that Henry might in fact be developing the worst F word in his book. Feelings. 

“Sounding a little cocky there Bowers,” Patrick responds, crossing his arms over his chest.

Henry laughs before saying, “Says you. At this point you should honestly just call the fucking bet off. She was all over me last night and I think she's made it clear that she wouldn't touch you with a ten foot pole. Face it Hockstetter, I’ll have her underneath me by next week.”

If Patrick wasn’t certain before, he is definitely certain now. He could see what Henry was trying to do. Persuading him to call the bet off so he can walk away hands clean with the girl who he thought was just another mediocre virgin to fuck in Derry. No. As far as Patrick is concerned, Juliet belongs to him. Henry can try to convince Patrick all he wants that he has no chance, but he remembers that look Juliet gave him in the movie theater. He sees how she’s into Henry regardless of his well known, fucked up reputation. Henry and him were one in the same. Patrick knows the kind of girl Juliet is. She’s attracted to people who are broken, people who need to be fixed. That’s the only reason why she instantly fell for Henry first, because she thinks there’s hope for him. Patrick has no problem playing his part until she sees the truth.

“If you think she’ll easily fuck you first then why call the bet off early? Isn’t that the whole point why we made it in the first place?” Patrick retorted, his cheshire grin growing from ear to ear. Henry could hear the teasingness in his tone and realized that Patrick could sense what he was trying to get at, so Henry attempted to play it off the best way he could. “I’m just sayin.’ You got a lot of catching up to do Hockstetter. Thought I’d be nice and give you a little warning to save you from the embarrassment later,” Henry smirks while patting him on the back.

“I appreciate that,” Patrick responds, reciprocating the action by giving Henry’s shoulder a friendly pat, but instead he doesn’t release his shoulder and pulls him in closer, his mouth inches away from his ear. “But the only one who’s going to be embarrassed here is you when I’m balls deep inside your little girlfriend’s tight virgin pussy, wrecking her fucking insides.”

Henry has to physically bite his tongue on the right side of his mouth to prevent from attacking him on the spot. At the end of the day, Juliet is technically a bet that Henry conjured up in the first place. Henry couldn’t show any possession over her, no matter how much he likes her, no matter how crazy it drove him. He releases an amused huff, wishing he could actually drown him in the pool.

“But for now,” Patricks states, his tone a lot more uplifting as he wipes the shoulders of Henry’s jacket, “Let’s play with what we’ve got right here.” He grins, referring to one of the girls that was staring at them earlier with his pointer and middle finger.

Henry knew if he turned down the offer, he’d look like the biggest bitch of all time. What guy says no to pretty girls practically yearning to get any sort of attention from them? But the thing was that these girls weren’t Juliet. They didn’t look like her, act like her, or even laugh like her, but all Henry could do is play along and keep the twisted mentality that whatever Juliet doesn’t know won’t hurt her.

The brunette Patrick beckoned over, whose name was apparently Tracy, seemed to be the most interested in Henry, however, she was quite the talkative one. She wasn’t getting Henry’s not so subtle signs of disinterest in conversation as he responded to everything with a monotone one worded answer and the habitual way he continuously kept flicking his pocket knife in and out. Patrick and Vic actually got so bored they ended up ditching Henry and thought walking over to the other side of the lawn to watch a drunk Peter barbecue Doritos was a much better source of entertainment.

Patrick and Vic started to make their way back to Henry, Tracy, and Belch, passing the patio’s white french doors again until Vic’s clunky, black combat boots come to a stop. 

“Oh shit!” Vic busts out laughing, which causes Patrick to turn around and see what the hell was so funny. Patrick stalks slowly towards him and mimiks his stance. “Look who showed up,” Vic smirks right as Patrick sees Juliet on the other side of the clear glass door. He licks his lips, taking in her appearance. Her all black, short dress is enough for him to already feel a slight hard on in his jeans. Her hair was down and loose like usual, with her petite glasses still adorning her face, but the fact that she was wearing clothes that actually fit her and the more heavily applied makeup made the two boys have no choice but to gawk at her for a minute. 

“Damn. She looks hot,” Vic observed, crouching behind a bush so the two could have a closer look without their ogling being too obvious. “But I wonder what she’s doing here. I’ve never seen her at parties and I know Henry didn’t invite her.”

“I don’t know why the hell she’s here either Vic, but it must be my lucky fucking day,” Patrick mutters, staring at her intently. He could tell that regardless of how good she looked, she was uncomfortable. The way she kept glancing at the ground and the nervous way she was toying with her necklace was a clear sign that she didn’t wake up this morning and say “there’s nothing more I’d love to do today than go to a wild high school party.” Patrick felt sort of jealous, hating how he wasn’t behind the cause of her anxiety at the moment. Soon though.

“I gotta go tell Henry, he’s going to absolutely lose his shit,” Vic chuckles all giddy, getting ready to stand up before Patrick grabs him by the collar, yanking him harshly back down.

“Don’t say a word to him that she’s here or I’ll fucking cut your tongue out and make you wipe my ass with it. I want to see the look on that fucker’s face when he sees her here himself,” Patrick sternly warns, not wanting to tell Vic exactly what he has planned.

“Alright, Jesus I won’t. Let go of me dick bag,” Vic shrugs, nudging Patrick’s grip off him. Vic brushes the knees of his camo pants and starts to walk back towards Henry again. He couldn’t feel Patrick’s presence near him and his senses were proven right when he turns around and sees Patrick stepping into the house, closing the door behind him. Vic quietly snickered to himself, knowing it was only a matter of time before shit was about to hit the fan.  

When Patrick enters the house, he spots Juliet down the hall. He watches and follows behind her closely before she reaches the steps and carefully walks up the stairs while holding the banister. As soon as she gets to the top, that’s Patrick’s que to begin heading up there as well.

……………………………………………………………………………

Juliet started analyzing the Keene’s bathroom decorations, realizing exactly what she was starting to do. Quit stalling, she thought to herself before shaking her head and giving herself one last glance over in the mirror before opening the door.

As she was walking she heard what sounded like a muffled scream coming from one of the rooms on the right hand side. She stopped and slowly tiptoed her way closer to the door until Juliet heard a girl’s moaning and then it all clicked. Oh.

“Sounds like fun,” a voice says, making Juliet frantically spin around to see none other than Patrick Hockstetter.

“Patrick, hey! I didn’t see you there,” Juliet smiles nervously, having no clue how someone with his height can have this special talent to pop up out of nowhere.

“Listening in?” he questions with a smirk, the sound of the headboard banging into the wall now apparent.

“No! Oh, god no,” Juliet laughs, running a hand through her hair. “I was using the bathroom and came out and heard a girl screaming and got nervous for a sec, but uhm- yeah I, uhh, thinks she alright,” she chuckles, making Patrick simper from her innocent response.

“So what brings you here?” Patricks asks.

“I just told y-”

“No, I mean like the party. I’ve never seen you at any before,” Patricks states, leaning on the side of his shoulder and resting his head against the wall.

“Jennifer wanted me to go with her so I thought I’d just come for a little while,” Juliet explained, not wanting to get into detail as to why Jennifer insisted on her being here tonight.

“Henry didn’t invite you?” Patrick asks, his eyebrows knitted together in curiosity. Juliet shakes her head, feeling stupid that the boy she just went on a date with last night was at the same party, but she was trying to almost avoid him for reasons she didnt know why. 

“Huh. Weird,” Patrick quietly mutters under his breath. sliding his shoulder alongside the wall to inch closer to her. His response suddenly made Juliet feel self conscious. How come he didn’t ask her to go to Gretta’s party? Was he embarrassed of her? Maybe he knew she didn’t go to parties and thought it’d be stupid to even ask?

“You’re not having fun are you?” Patrick observes, a sly smile forming on his lips.

“I mean I’ve only been here for about fifteen minutes, 7 of those minutes I’ve spent in the bathroom so…” Jennifer bites down on her lip, suppressing a shy smirk which made it extremely difficult for Patrick to restrain himself from pushing her into one of the empty bedrooms. 

“Does Henry even know you’re here?” Patrick asks, and it’s like Juliet can feel he already knows the answer.

“No I haven’t seen him yet. Like I said, I really haven’t been here very long,” Juliet explains, twirling her necklace between her fingers. Patrick notices the nervous habit and begins to feel exhilarated.

“Well he’s right downstairs. Let’s go surprise him, he’ll be thrilled to see that you’re here, especially since I heard you two uhh...really kicked it off last night,” Patrick winks, grabbing her wrist and leading her down the rest of the hallway. Juliet felt confused in the way Patrick said that, but she couldn’t even think clearly with Patrick practically dragging her so fast that she almost tripped going down the staircase. Once they reached the bottom he motions for her to take the lead as he stands directly behind her. 

“Do you know where he is?”Juliet turns her head to ask him.

“Last I saw he was talking outside to some girl named Tracy,” Patrick responds casually, pretending to search for him in the living room, knowing exactly what he was doing. Juliet couldn’t help but feel the tiny pit in her stomach grow in size. She didn’t know if she was being completely played or acting totally crazy over a boy she has gone out with only one time. 

“C’mon. Maybe he’s still out back,” Patrick says in her ear before walking in front of her as she follows close behind. He opens one of the french doors and she takes in how there’s quite a lot of people out here as well. Between the ones hanging around the perimeter of the pool, or the guys to the far right playing some sort of drunk version of football, Juliet briefly glances around the area. That is, until her eyes suddenly land on Henry’s back. His arm is wrapped around some girl’s waist. She’s whispering something in his ear, causing Henry to smirk as he pulls her in closer, his mouth inches from hers as he says something Juliet can’t hear, but it causes her to start kissing down Henry’s neck.

Patrick notices Juliet has spotted them because of her obvious stare and her face that portrayed nothing but disappointment. “Well that’s not Tracy,” Patrick clears his throat as if what he’s witnessing is awkward, even though he’s the one who perfectly managed to make Juliet catch Henry in the act. 

Suddenly, Belch and Vic walk up to them, the look on their faces completely different. Vic’s was more friendly while Belch’s was full of concern.

“But soft, what light through yonder window breaks? It is the east and Juliet is the sun,” Vic mocks in his best shakespearean voice he can summon while giving a bow.

Juliet swallows her utter dismay and smiles at Vic. “Impressive,” she smirks, causing Vic to grin back at her. Belch interjects when he says, “Hey Juliet, Henry would be so happy to see you here. Let me go get him, I know he’s around here somewhere.” This was his poor attempt to try and cover Henry’s ass, but he knew in that moment it was most likely too late.

“No.” Juliet demands, her voice so stern that it almost surprises herself. The three boys gaze at her in a bit of a shock. “Let’s go say hi to him together,” Juliet offers, putting on a brave face. As much as Juliet just wanted to go home and cry in her room, she realized she was over everyone thinking she was like some china doll that’s could break easily. Her heart may feel broken but it was her mission in that moment to make sure no one saw the cracks.

“O-Okay,” Belch stutters, watching in bewilderment as Juliet takes heading towards Henry. The unknown girl is still draped all over him, but Juliet wasn’t annoyed at the poor girl having a good time. 

Once the three of them approach him, Juliet gently taps him on the shoulder, causing Henry to turn around. His initial face was of pure annoyance until he realizes who’s standing behind him. He quickly yanked his hand away from the blonde’s side and his mouth opened slightly, but no words were coming out.

“Juliet,” Henry observes, taking in her appearance while also in complete shock that’s she even standing in front of him in the first place. A million thoughts and questions were racing through his head, making for once, Henry Bowers actually speechless.

“Hi,” Juliet responds, her voice soft, deliberately acting like she was unfazed. There was a few seconds of awkward silence before the unknown girl helps breaks the ever present tension when she says to Juliet, “I love your dress! I almost bought the same one at the mall, but they didn’t have my size.”

“Thank you! My friend actually picked it out. You see, she wanted me to come to this party to meet someone because I went out with this guy last night who she thinks is a total waste of time. Told me I could do so much better,” Juliet looks so her eyes are now instead staring right into Henry’s. “Turns out she was right.” 

This results in a fit of breathy chuckles coming from Patrick and Vic while Juliet maintains her cool. Henry’s piercing blue eyes were like daggers into hers, but she never once glances down at the ground. Juliet gives him one last glare before turning swiftly around and walks straight back to the house. The most horrible and pathetic part of this whole situation was that there was a part of Juliet that wanted Henry to chase after her. Unfortunately, he never did. Juliet didn’t know why her heart was beating out of her chest or why the back of her neck felt slightly sticky or why she was breathing so hard, but she knew that she could not stay at this party for another second.

Patrick jogs after her, not wanting to lose her in the crazy crowds of people inside. When he steps into the kitchen, he quickly catches her wrist.

“Where ya goin’?” Patrick asks.

“I’m going home,” Juliet states, tucking some hair behind her ear.

“Didn’t you come with Jennifer?”

“Yeah, but I actually live close by so I’m just going to walk,” Juliet responds while her eyes casually search the area for any signs of her best friend. Things were bad enough with Henry, the last thing she needed right now was for Jennifer to see her talking to Patrick Hockstetter of all people. 

“I’ll walk you home,” Patrick demands.

“You don’t need to do that Patrick, I’ll be okay,” Juliet tries to convince him.

“Sorry princess but I’m not taking no for an answer. Your face is too pretty to be on a missing person's poster downtown,” Patrick places his hand at the small of her back, using that as an advantage to guide her through the small crowd of people so they can reach the front door to leave. Juliet didn’t particularly want Patrick’s company, especially now, but he did have a decent point. 

“Okay, just let me find Jen to let her know I’m going,” Juliet explains before Patrick gives her a nod. “I’ll be waiting outside.”

Juliet scouted through the living room first and luckily spots Jennifer on the couch, sitting on Ryan Novack’s lap. “I’m leaving,” Juliet states, making Jennifer get off the jock’s lap, analyzing her intently.

“What do you mean you’re leaving, we just got here.”

“I just don’t really feel that great and I think it’d be best if I went home,” Juliet lied, hoping Jennifer would be easy going. Hoping.

“First about Bowers and now this. Catching your little lying habit from your hillbilly boyfriend?” Jennifer hisses, crossing her tan arms over her chest. Juliet stares at her offensively before Jennifer continues on and says, “Although I guess I shouldn’t talk since I forgot to mention how the Bowers Gang are notorious for getting laid at parties.”

Suddenly, the light bulb goes off in Juliet’s head as she connects all the pieces together. “You brought me here on purpose,” Juliet utters, almost as if she’s saying it aloud to herself.

“Don’t give me that look. I mean how else would you be able to see what a pig he is? You should be thanking me.” 

 “I should be thanking you?” Juliet chuckles in disbelief. “Okay then, thank you for dressing me up and bringing me here to only make me look like a total ass. Congratulations, you proved me wrong. Henry is a total jerk and you’re a complete bitch.” 

Juliet has never spoken to Jennifer like this before in her life, but Juliet’s blood has been boiling since her encounter with Henry and Jennifer wasn’t helping simmer down the heat. Juliet shook her head at Jennifer and darted out of the living room as fast as she could, leaving Jennifer quite dumbstruck. For some strange reason, Juliet didn’t feel bad for saying exactly what was on her mind, even if it hurts her. The only thing that made her heart feel heavy is that the two people she cared about deceived and lied to her in just one single night. And unfortunately, the lanky boy waiting for her outside wasn’t any different.

……………………………………………………………………………

The night air was a little chillier than usual, making Juliet cross her arms over her chest to warm up her hands. Patrick notices the small sign and takes off his leather jacket and drapes it over her shoulders.

“Oh. Thanks,” she smiles at him before slipping her arms through the sleeves. A small smirk plays at her lips when she says, “It’s a perfect fit.” It was comical how huge the jacket was on Juliet. The sleeves were so long that you couldn’t even see her hands.

“It looks good on you. Ya know I’m really digging this whole look you got goin’ on. It’s sexy,” Patrick smirks, tugging slightly at the bottom of her dress.

“It’s definitely different, but I think you pull it off a lot better than me,” Juliet teases, referring to his similar all black ensemble of boots, jeans, and a thin long sleeved shirt. 

“Are you saying I’m sexy Jules?” Patrick smirks while throwing his arm over her shoulder. As shocked as she was, Juliet started to feel a sense of comfortability with him. Nobody besides her family or Jennifer called her Jules, and for some reason hearing Patrick use the nickname gave Juliet a sense of warmth that she didn’t think Patrick was capable of. Juliet thought to herself that Patrick could have easily let her leave the party alone, but he wanted to make sure she was safe whereas Henry let her walk away, not caring whatsoever about where she went or how she felt.

“Patrick?”

“Princess?”

“I want to apologize,” Juliet states, keeping her eyes straight forward as they walked while Patrick looks at her slightly confused. “I just feel like I’ve been rude to you lately and that I was quick to judge you before even actually getting the chance to know you.”

Patrick was beaming with pure ecstasy. He had her right where he wanted her. 

“Don’t sweat it sweetheart,” Patrick responds, petting her head. “If it makes you feel any better, I seriously underestimated you. I didn’t think you had it in ya to tell Bowers off like that.”

“Neither did I,” Juliet chuckles before she says, “But you were right and tried to warn me and I didn’t listen. I’m sorry.” 

Juliet suddenly feels tiny droplets of water speckle across her nose before she realizes that it’s starting to lightly drizzle. In a literal instant, the light drizzle turns into harsh, downpour rain.

“Shit,” Juliet hisses before Patrick grabs her hand and they both begin to run down the sidewalk. They sprint for a few blocks, each step like walking into a giant puddle until Juliet steers Patrick towards the white house that’s hers at the end of the cul-de-sac. They race across Juliet’s soggy lawn and up her creaky wooden porch steps when they finally make it to the front stain glass door.

They both stood there, catching their breaths while taking in each others sopping wet appearances. “This is the second dress in a row Hockstetter. I’m starting to think you’re some kind of bad luck charm to my nice clothes,” Juliet jokes, referring to when he spilled soda on her just last night and now this. Patrick leers at her, his eyes studying her face to her wet hair to the droplets of water on her exposed skin to the way her makeup is slightly smudged. She looked messy and it made Patrick’s appetite for her all the more unbearable. Juliet feels his thumb graze over her knuckles and that’s when she glances down and realizes her hand is still interlocked with his. 

“I’m sorry,” Juliet awkwardly apologizes, slipping her grasp from his and instead placing her hand on the door knob before she rambles on and says, “Please, come in so you can get dried off and wait until this rain passes. It’s the least I can do.”

“If you insist,” Patricks smirks, gesturing his hand out for Juliet to walk first. She obliges and he follows, making sure to lock the door behind him. 

@kola95

[spirit-of-the-void]

Gunpowder and Flower Petals (Dante x Reader Fanfic) Chapter 4

Author’s notes: Back at it again, on sundays now! Have some cute date stuff, I worked very hard on it <3

                                                 Chapter Four

                             ~Strawberry Crepes and Coffee Mugs~

Dante, for all his time spent fighting demons and trying not to die, could not remember the last time he was so god damn nervous.

Holding your hand, heading toward a quaint-looking bakery near your shop was somehow harder to handle than facing a horde of one hundred demons. Although that could be attributed to the fact that he was used to such scenarios. Swinging a sword, firing a gun, the spray of blood from some scumbag demon...that was the life he knew. Not this--a life of sunshine, flower petals and soft domestic things like going on a date. Growing up as he did, even dating as a teenager was never really an option. Always back to targets, to fighting--blood, steel, and bullets. Content to just look at magazines and flirt with the occasional woman who crossed his path, which somehow always led to him getting stabbed, beaten, or shot. He got the message right away that maybe love and romance just wasn’t in his cards. So...Dante the Devil Hunter  gave up on relationships, and stuck to what he knew.

Until today, that is. What in the world was it about you that changed his mind, that brought down some of his self-imposed rules he always abided by? You left him a bumbling mess, which usually Dante would hate and try to avoid at all costs. But like a moth to the flame, he returned almost eagerly to keep this connection to you. Because despite how off putting it was to feel silly and flustered by a woman, it was nice. Maybe he was just getting too old, craving normalcy in his life after all these years of just dealing with Vergil’s messes and fighting demons? Whatever the reason, Dante felt like his heart was ready to burst from pounding too hard, working overtime at even the slightest things that should in no way be that exciting. The soft skin of your warm fingers, the way your eyes lit up when he returned to the store...no woman had given him these feelings before. Even the sight of sunlight glinting off your curls had him light headed and almost entranced.

Maybe you were a fae. One that was enchanting the devil hunter and would someday steal him away into the woods, never to be seen again.

Regardless, he couldn’t really care. Dante had gone through all the necessary steps for this date that Trish, Lady, and oddly enough Vergil had deemed acceptable. Upon seeing his brother ready to leave the house in the same leather and dull t-shirt Vergil looked damn near close to bursting a blood vessel. The women had given him a crash course on how to treat a lady on a date, and Vergil had flung the button up at his face with a bottle of cologne. Dante wasn’t sure how to feel about his outfit, but at least he managed to trim up his face and pull back the hair. You deserved far better than some scruffy mess to take you out on a date, and yet here Dante was walking down the street for some lunch. Holding hands with a flower girl, trying to justify to himself why it was acceptable to be here.

Seeing you look so happy...maybe it was worth it.

Because Dante couldn’t deny the excitement in your eyes, the way your soft lips tilted up in a very obvious display of delight. It was still surprising that such a gentle woman would want to know someone like him, who would be eager to just talk and have some lunch. Oddly enough, he found himself incredibly eager as well--you were kind and made for easy conversation, presence alone enough to make the demons and bloodshed of his line of work seem far away.

The answer to your question, of what his favorite sweets were, was enough to make your face light up like a child on Christmas morning. For a second, Dante thought he saw a new flower appear in your curls, but maybe it was just hidden underneath? You certainly had a talent for pinning flora to your head.

“I love strawberries!” You exclaimed, smile cheerful and hand squeezing his a bit, “I grow some in my garden! Alex and his wife use them for pastries and desserts sometimes, so I’m fairly positive you’ll be able to try some.”

How often his mind seemed to forget, you owned a flowershop. It made sense that more than a few flowers would be grown there.

Dante smirked a bit, expression wry as he met your bright eyes, “You never cease to amaze, sunshine. I might have to buy some off of you when we get back to your shop.”

God, the way your cheeks pinked ever so slightly at his praises did things to his heart. What in the world was wrong with him? He gave girls compliments all the time, hopelessly silly flirting that meant nothing and just boiled down to him getting shot or punched. But when it came to you...maybe it was different when he was actually trying?

“N...nonsense! They grow super fast, and I...I’d happily give you some for free.” You disagreed softly, hiding your embarrassed expression behind your curls a little bit.  

He chuckled in response, noticing a few more flower petals scattering out of your hair as he replied, “Can’t deny a pretty girl her business--what kind of guy would I be then?”

You flushed more at that, looking absolutely frazzled. It was incredibly cute, so much that Dante was having issues keeping his own emotions in check. Heart racing, free hand practically making tracks in his goddamn hair...Years of fighting demons hadn’t prepared him for dating, not by a long shot. It was so strange--it felt like every single bad habit he had grown accustomed to in the past few years was coming back to haunt him. The way he ate, acted, the recklessness…and it was only day one. How the hell was he supposed to get through hours of trying not to make an absolute fool out of himself?

The answer to that question? He was going to make a fool out of himself no matter what.

You finally reached the bakery before a reply could be formed, Dante making sure to open the door for you like a gentleman would. A smile curled your lips as you stepped inside, now surrounded by the deliciously warm aroma of baked goods and coffee. Lunchtime seemed relatively calm despite the obvious popularity of a local business, tables dotted with an occasional couple or singular human enjoying lunch before going on with their day. It was a far cry from the boring, company owned coffee places Dante usually stopped at for his usual cup. Bright, vivid, warm and inviting--even the man behind the counter smiled eagerly upon your arrival, easily recognizing you and looking absolutely delighted. He was an older gentleman, maybe in his fifties or sixties, with little wrinkles around his eyes and mouth. This was definitely Alex, no doubt about that.

The man in question set down the mug he was cleaning, coming out from behind the counter as he greeted warmly, “Y/N! Thanks for coming by, we haven’t seen you in a while!” His gaze lifted to Dante, who was still holding your hand after opening the door. The devil hunter expected wariness, maybe worry at seeing someone like him accompanying you at all. But there was only curiosity, and a hint of surprise as he asked, “Never seen you come in with someone before! Who’s your friend?”

You seemed to be trying your best not to get flustered, but there was a hint of pink to your cheeks regardless. Dante held his hand out for a shake before you could reply, giving enough time for you to gather yourself as he provided helpfully, “Dante--you must be Alex, yeah?”

The baker had a firm handshake, seeming pleased with Dante’s friendliness as he hummed, “That’s me! My wife and I run this fine establishment, and Y/N here is a sort of business partner--she provides wonderful seasonal fruits when our sellers fall short! Don’t know what we’d do without her.”

You managed a light huff at that, looking far more collected while being appropriately modest, “You’re far too kind...you and Bella do a lot for me, some cases of strawberries or blueberries is nothing in comparison.”

By your tone, it seemed like you were trying very hard not to take credit for anything. 

Alex grinned cheerfully, turning his gaze back to Dante as he continued, “She’s far too modest for her own good--but enough about that, you two came in for some food right?” The baker looked a bit playful, raising a brow at you and chuckling lightly, “How about we set up you and your date with some lunch?”

The very mention of “dating” made your cheeks flush, a handful of petals drifting out onto the floor from those beautiful locks. Dante tried not to smirk, he really did, but seeing your reactions was just so fucking adorable. Though he did notice that there was definitely more flowers in your hair, there was no mistaking that--he wasn’t sure what kind, but they were bright and beautiful as they drifted some soft flora onto the ground. Alex seemed used to it, not minding at all as he gave a hearty laugh and gestured to a nearby table for you both to sit down. 

“Take a load off--I’ll let you both look at some menus and come by with whatever you want,” Alex hummed, practically skipping back to the counter with a good-natured smile as he winked at you both, “My treat.”

Dante was flattered to say the least--He may not be the wealthiest, and struggled to manage money without Vergil there to manage the funds, but he would be damned before he let his date pay for the food or whatever they were out doing. This baker seemed determined not to let them spend anything, however, which Dante was tempted to argue with. There was obviously no need--you beat him to it easily. 

Alex’s firm declaration made you sputter instantly, blinking owlishly at the man as you protested, “B...but I have money, surely you don’t need to--”

“Nonsense! I’m not taking a dime from you or your date.”

Alex waved away your protests, heading back into his kitchen to probably tell his wife you were there. He was a pretty nice guy--Dante could respect someone like him, a man who rooted himself in kindness and wholesome business practices. Once upon a time, the devil hunter could have seen himself doing the same thing when he grew up...as a child, he imagined a slew of things as his future. Police officer, baker, business owner, musician--it changed like the wind flowing, sparking with whatever held his interest at that time, or from whatever book or show he was into. He was different than Vergil, who only seemed hellbent on being just like their father. Sword fighting and training were always for fun, something to do with his brother.

Danted missed those days.

Focus, idiot.

Dante turned his attention back to you, not shocked when he found you staring after Alex in exasperation. You slumped in your chair, letting out a low sigh and pushing some curly locks back in a gesture that was almost...shy. It was definitely cute, and those pretty cheeks were still flushed. Dante felt his woes and musings about the past slowly start drifting away, like flower petals on the breeze as he smirked and finally met that wonderful gaze--there was bashfulness there, and a hint of embarrassment. There was so much he wanted to know about what went on inside your head, where your thoughts were going. 

“People really care about you, sunshine,” He mused, plucking up two menus from a nearby holder and holding one out to you expectantly. You looked surprised by his comment, even more so when he continued on, “Don’t be too upset with your friend--nice guy that one. Though I gotta admit, he did steal my thunder a bit...here I was gearing up to pay for it myself.”

That made you smile softly, opening the menu to hide your face behind it. Didn’t do much good, he still saw a bunch of petals scatter out onto the floor and parts of the table.

“W...well...we might as well eat…” You murmured, clearing your throat a bit and peeking over the object shielding you from view, “For the record, you...you don’t have to do that…”

“Do what?” Dante replied, raising a brow and leaning his head on one hand.

You flushed a bit more, squirming in your seat and blowing a petal out of your face. He fought a chuckle, enjoying your reactions and mannerisms far too much.

“You don’t have to pay for me,” Was your eventual reply, nose scrunching up a little bit as your eyes darted back to the menu, “I don’t want to inconvenience you is all. It’s...It’s just the first date and I...um…”

Damn, he felt like a giddy kid at his first school dance. Dante couldn’t help himself--a bit of an awkward chuckle escaped his lips, one hand scratching underneath his loose ponytail in a display of his own nervousness.

“What kind of gentleman would I be if I made a nice lady pay for everything?” He tsked slightly, a few strands of hair falling loose when he shook his head, “Don’t worry yourself, sunshine. Ain’t no way in hell you could ever inconvenience me.”

You just sitting here with me is proof that some higher power is giving me a blessing.

Your cheeks flushed again, head ducked behind the menu as you pretended to scan for something to eat as a means of distraction. Dante could only chuckle softly, closing his own menu after picking exactly what he wanted with ease. This place definitely had the fixings to make his sweet tooth happy, no denying that. Pastries, cookies, cakes, bread, sundaes, parfaits...It had been awhile since he treated himself to anything other than cheap pizza and beer. Vergil hated both, but it was all he would allow Dante on their newfound “budget”. Things had gotten easier since their demon hunting was being technically counted as government work while things were so hectic, but...this was a nice change of pace. Sitting in a bakery with a beautiful girl, getting to know her over some sweets and coffee...it seemed so far from what he was used to.

Regardless, a beautiful woman appeared out from the kitchen, hair in braids and looking just as cheerful as Alex was. She was wearing an apron stained with flour, dusting off her hands even as she clutched a little notepad for taking orders--no doubt Alex had informed her of you being in the bakery with someone new, blushing and on a date. Her green eyes lit up when she spotted the table, curious and eager when she took in the white-haired male lounging calmly and you hiding your face behind a menu. Dante tried to make it seem like he hadn’t noticed her, tapping your foot under the table to get your attention--she hadn’t approached the table yet, and was merely hovering near the counter spying with absolutely no subtlety. Not that he minded--it was just a little odd in his opinion.

You jolted as soon as his foot touched yours, sitting up straight and meeting his gaze. The devil hunter grinned, pointing lightly while hiding it behind his other hand.

“I’m guessing that’s Bella?” He hummed low, leaning closer to you for some semblance of privacy. Your flushed face was absolutely adorable, but you did put your head nearer to his, listening closely and nodding at his question.

“It is...I’m sorry…” Your voice was soft, filled with hesitation as you tried not to make it obvious to Bella that you were talking about her, “M...maybe we should have gone somewhere else...I hope my friends aren’t bothering you.”

Dante immediately shook his head, heart squeezing at the forlorn look in your eyes. Precious girl was concerned about his comfort, which was sweet to say the least. But...the devil hunter wasn’t bothered, not when he knew damn well Trish, Lady, and Vergil had to be somewhere nearby watching in secret. All three were way too curious to stay behind at Devil May Cry while he went on a date, no doubt about that.

So Dante reached out, gently grasping your fingers, enjoying the way your eyes lit up and cheeks flushed pink in response.

“Don’t worry your pretty little head,” He winked,  giving your hand a light squeeze before leaning back again, “I’m not bothered at all--I’d even venture to say I’m having a lot of fun. I don’t get out too often like this, it’s...well, it’s a nice change of pace.”

The way he spoke made you curious, there was no doubting that. You opened your mouth to reply, maybe to ask some questions about his lifestyle or what he meant, but Bella decided in that moment she had enough of standing by and spying. She hopped up from behind the counter, strolling over to the table with a friendly smile and meeting your startled gaze with an eager one of her own.

“Sorry to keep you waiting, Y/N,” She greeted, green orbs sliding over to Dante in the next instant as she added, “Alex told me you were here on a date--Dante, right?”

She held out her hand, eyes flashing with a hint of wariness unlike her husband and ignoring the way your face flushed at the very mention of being on a date.. Ah--it was pretty clear she was protective of you, like an older sister that was trying to see if she trusted him or not. He could respect that--honestly had Dante left the house looking as he had in the morning Alex and Bella could have easily mistaken him for a degenerate of some sort.

He shook her hand warmly, offering a friendly grin as he replied, “Pleasure to meet ya.  Y/N spoke high praises of you and Alex--I can see why. Beautiful place you’ve got here.”

His laid back manner of speaking made her relax a bit, a low breath stirring the air as she replied, “She’s a sweetheart that one. She’d speak nice of us even if we served slop here.”

“Hey!” You protested, looking thoroughly flustered while looking between the two.

Bella simply gave a good-natured laugh, reaching her free hand out to tussle those beautiful curls. You didn’t lean away from the gesture, exasperated expression melting into a rueful smile. Bella almost had a motherly air about her when it came to you, or that of an older sibling. Something about seeing so many kind people surrounding you felt...nice, especially when he remembered what you mentioned at the shop. Losing your mother at a young age, and no mention of your father or any other family...it seemed like you didn’t surround yourself with many people, so knowing there was at least Alex and Bella there on your behalf was oddly relieving.

“Now--what can I get you two lovebirds?” Bella finally asked, so innocent she should have been wearing a halo despite the wicked gleam in her eyes. She was enjoying this whole situation far too much, that was apparent.

You cleared your throat a bit, looking at Dante as if expecting him to order first. He merely smirked in response, gesturing with one hand for you to proceed. The devil hunter was a bit curious about what you liked to eat and drink, so this was a learning experience.

“The hibiscus tea, please...with honey.” You closed the menu, gently handing it to Bella and looking sheepish.

“The usual amount?” Bella inquired, smiling cheerfully as she wrote it down on the little notepad.

“Mhm...and can I get an order of strawberry crepes?”

Damn, that sounded pretty freaking good. Dante hadn’t really had something like crepes in a long time, and the idea of it was a bit more appealing than the parfait he had planned. Plus...eating something you liked would be nice, though tea wasn’t really his favorite thing. Better to supplement with coffee. 

“Drizzled with nutella then? Do you want whipped cream?” Bella was asking when he focused again, scribbling everything down on that little pad of paper. The more she spoke the more his mouth began to water. Maybe skipping breakfast wasn’t the best idea?

You were nodding to everything, occasionally peeking at him through that curtain of curly hair. The way each strand framed your cheeks was absolutely enchanting, peppered with flowers and petals like a forest fairy sitting in a patch of sunlight. He was zoning out just gazing at you, head still resting on his hand and probably looking like an absolutely slack-jawed oaf. Whatever his expression was it made you flush pink, a cute smile tilting your lips and some more petals falling to the floor in an amassing pile. Man...he was seriously in deep, wasn’t he?

Bella didn’t seem to mind, only letting out a small giggle and turning to Dante next for his order despite him not really paying attention either. The absolutely star struck expression on his face was definitely easing her further. Not that he noticed. 

“And what can I get you, big guy?” She inquired, tapping him on the shoulder and startling him out of whatever trance he was in. Dante at least had the good graces to look bashful, clearing his throat and scratching the back of his head again in that nervous little gesture.

“U...uh…yeah,” He mumbled, coughing once before continuing on more soundly, “Latte for me. And an order of those crepes Y/N decided on.”

You perked up at that, looking absolutely delighted while Bella jotted down the order. The cheerful woman let out a pleased hum, tucking the little notepad away before grinning at the couple trying not to stare at each other.

“I’ll have your drinks right out,” She promised, giving you a not-so-subtle wink, “And Alex will get to work on those crepes. You two have fun.”

She gave a little wave of her fingers, slipping between the tables with a pep in her step while you flushed pink again. All at once the two of you were left alone, so many questions to ask and things to learn with no real jumping off point. Dante settled back in his chair again, tilting his head as he eyed your flushed face--you were nervous, sure, but also happy by the looks of it. There was a glint of delight in your eyes, and something about your expression radiated a pure joy that left him more than a little breathless and chest squeezing lightly. Hell, your whole presence was oddly...relaxing, in a way that reminded him of sitting in a flower meadow with the sun shining down and a breeze rustling his hair. Which was odd, to be honest, considering the fact that he didn’t recall ever being in such a scenario before. Maybe when he was still a child, before things all went to hell?

Don’t think about that. Not right now, with her.

Dante let out a slow breath, leaning forward again to put himself at better eye level with you. It made you sit up straighter, little heart probably hammering in your chest as your cheeks gave you away every time. It was charming the hell out of him. 

“Tell me about you, sunshine,” He said, tone low and intimate in that little corner where you both sat, “I know you own your own business--what made you decide to start growing flowers?”

You seemed taken aback by such an upfront question, settling in the chair with your hands on your lap. For a second Dante was afraid he had been too forward in his questioning, but the small, wistful smile on your lips made the fear halt in its tracks. It was the kind of smile he knew well, the one someone wore while remembering something dear to them. 

You shifted a bit, hand instinctively reaching up to clasp a locket dangling around your neck. It was a pretty little silver thing, with intricate patterns forming into the shape of a flower. The way you clutched it between your fingers was almost instinctive, like breathing or blinking. 

“My mother and I had a garden when I was little,” You replied softly, eyes glowing with the sunlight that came out of a nearby window. Dante felt his breath catch at your response, heart growing tighter as you continued gently, “She taught me how to respect nature, how to nurture seedlings and flora. After she died...its one of the ways I remember her. It makes me happy.”

Damn...he remembered you mentioning the loss of her mother at a young age. That first day in the shop when they met, he had been going there to get roses because his own mother loved them so much. It was one of the first things that made him feel...connected somehow, that sharing of a tragedy. He knew that pain all too well, it was one of the things that made him who he was today, shaping his very existence. That day in the mansion, trapped in a closet and forced to listen as his mother was murdered by demons. The memory alone was enough to make that familiar pain and regret return, as much as he tried to push it down. There was another part of him curious about how your mother died, but asking would be incredibly rude and definitely not something for a first date.

Stop thinking about it.

“She...sounds like a wonderful person,” He cleared his throat again, leaning on his hands and staring into your eyes as they lifted his way, “I’m certain she’d be proud--you do wonderful stuff at that shop. Hell--I’m positive my mother would have adored the roses I bought from you.”

That made you perk up, eyes soft and curious at the mention of his own lost mother. Almost instinctively, you reached one gentle hand out to clasp his, the thrill of it traveling up his spine like a giddy jolt of electricity.

“What was she like--your mother?” You inquired, a bit hesitant as well considering the heavy nature of the discussion.

Christ...when was the last time he opened up to anyone about his mother? Despite Trish looking exactly like Eva, he never spoke to her about it. Ever. It was just a fact that hung between them, a mutual understanding. Lady wasn’t one for discussions like there either, and Vergil talking about his emotions was entirely out of the question. Part of him didn’t want to bare that much of himself to you so early, and yet...it was pleasant, this feeling. To have someone who would listen without judgement, to act normal and human for even a day. Like a paradise away from his job and life, a small reprieve he wasn’t sure was deserved. But his mouth opened anyway, the rest of the world fading away while the devil hunter spoke to you. Not feeling like a devil hunter, just...Dante.

“I lost her when I was little too, so I don’t remember all that much,” He admitted, blowing a soft breath out from his cheeks, “I remember her being kind, caring...a wonderful mother. She must’ve had a ton of patience to deal with me and my brother while we bickered.”

You perked up a bit in surprise, opening your mouth to ask another question when Bella slid up to the table. The sound of her setting down two cups made you both jump, turning to gaze at her sheepishly while she smirked in absolute amusement. Much to Dante’s dismay, you released his hand, leaving it with a feeling that was oddly…lonely. Not to mention, having someone sneak up on him was a strange sensation, one that would usually prompt him to whip out his pistol or sword. Neither were on him thankfully, and it left Dante feeling a bit out of place as you thanked Bella and slid his cup closer to him.

“Thank you so much, these look wonderful.” You beamed, lifting a beautiful tea cup to your lips to inhale the scent. The liquid inside was steaming hot, a pretty color that was different from the usual teas he saw. Whatever hibiscus tea was, it smelled lovely and drifted with the faintest hints of honey.

His own latte looked far too beautiful to drink, the foam on top decorated to look like a leaf. Damn, it was prettier than anything he had consumed in his whole life.

“Looks great.” He complimented, meaning it wholeheartedly as he grinned at Bella.

She nodded, winking at you both again as she replied, “I’ll be back soon with your food, don’t mind me.” 

The woman slipped away again, back to the counter to take the order of a new set of people coming in. Dante made sure to take pause, lifting his own cup of coffee to sample a taste of the liquid inside. It was pleasantly hot and sweet as it rolled over his tongue, a delight after the cheap coffee they had at Devil May Cry in the past month. Honestly, he’d have to come here more often, just to treat himself occasionally after work. The warm atmosphere, the smell of bread and pastries mingling with coffee...it was relaxing, soothing in the strangest way. And yet...he was almost positive that it wouldn’t be nearly as so without you there, hair glowing in the sun and drifting in the scent of flora.

He looked at you from over his cup, enjoying the way you savored your tea with gentle sips. You set it down soon after, meeting his eyes with that gentle curiosity as you remembered the question that Bella cut off before.

“You have a brother?” 

Oh yeah...he mentioned Vergil, didn’t he? Not by name, but...how much they bickered.

Dante scratched the back of his head, taking another sip of coffee to help clear his throat as he grunted, “Sure do...a twin, if you can believe that,” Your mouth popped open in surprise, so he continued on ruefully, “He’s…a bit problematic. We got separated after mother died, and he uhh...made some bad choices. Never really got along with him all that well, but...he stays with me now, helps with the business.”

Christ...he never realized just how much he couldn’t talk about with you until now. He preferred to keep you as far away from demon hunting as possible, and Vergil had done so much unbelievably terrible shit that there wasn’t much he could say without you being horrified. The Tower, the Qliphoth tree, Urizen, V…there was so much to unpack, even without bringing Nero and the fact that he was Dante’s nephew into the mix. God damn...his life really was a disaster, wasn’t it?

Still...everything he said hadn’t been a lie. Just...not the exact truth.

You nodded in understanding, sympathy in your gaze as you replied softly, “I mean...is your relationship any better now? I don’t have siblings, I can’t imagine really going through something like being on bad terms with a brother or sister like that.”

Dante seriously doubted you could have anyone hate you at all.

He chuckled, reaching out to pat your hand as he replied, “Don’t worry too much, sunshine. It’s not perfect, but at least he’s where I can make sure he’s not doing stupid shit. He’s trying to be better, which is worth something I guess.”

Vergil certainly wasn’t perfect, not by a long shot. But his twin had the feeling that all the terrible shit he had done was finally starting to click, even just a little bit.

“I see…” You murmured, tucking some of that beautiful hair behind your ear as you gazed up at him again. There seemed to be a sudden realization, that beautiful gaze blinking owlishly at him as you added, “Wait...you said you have a business too? What sort of business do you run?”

Ah…fuck, he had mentioned that, hadn’t he? What the hell could she tell you about Devil May Cry that wasn’t a lie? The name of it alone was pretty strange, telling a story that he had literally no excuses for. And yet...there was a part of him that felt uneasy about the idea of making something up, especially when he was on the first date with you. Trying to start a relationship on a bed of lies seemed so wrong, as hesitant as he was to even admit that’s what he was trying to do. But...Dante liked you a lot, felt soothed by your presence. Even now he was ready to admit he wanted to do this again, wanted an excuse to keep meeting you. Pushing the demons of his past away, growing close to someone in the hopes of growing near to them...surely he was allowed that much?

Dante let out a low sigh, struggling to form his reply a bit as it tumbled out awkwardly, “Err...It’s…kind of hard to explain. We kind of do odd jobs for the government, nothing illegal I swear...it’s just nothing that’s completely normal…”

I sound like a complete jackass, a shady one at that. 

Government jobs? Odd jobs? He sounded like a drug dealer, or a hit man when speaking like that. Not that his actual job was any better--being a demon hunter was no small thing, it was absolutely not the kind of thing he could talk about.

You blinked, not seeming phased in the slightest as he tried to form a coherent response. That surprised him a bit, even when you reached out to grasp his hand again with your warm fingers. Even more so after holding that cup of tea, it was absolutely pleasant.

“I don’t think you’re doing anything illegal,” You assured, smiling at the nervous mannerisms he displayed and squeezing softly, “And you don’t have to explain everything to me, not when it makes you uncomfortable. There’s...definitely things I can’t talk about right now too...and that’s okay.”

You smiled warmly, something in your eyes looking hesitant and distant again. That look stirred those emotions in his chest, that ache brought forth by knowing something was definitely troubling that gentle soul of yours. The idea of someone hurting a gentle, loving girl like you was...well, it stirred up that part of him he knew was capable of violence. That protective part of him, the one that just wanted you safe and happy. But he wasn’t going to push it, especially not with you respecting his boundaries like you were. To do so would be deeply disrespectful--these things could come in time, and he wanted to learn more, to get closer to you.

So he let out a slow breath, lifting your fingers gently up to his lips. You held back a squeak of surprise, cheeks flushing a deep shade of pink and numerous petals falling from your hair as he brushed your warm digits ever so slightly. That reaction definitely made his own nervousness worth it, made everything worth it.

“We have time, sunshine.” He agreed, giving you smile that was equal parts sheepish and equal parts warmth, “As much as we need.”

You nodded once, eyes bright with delight and excitement as he continued to hold your hand. So lost in that moment, neither of you noticed Bella walking up until she cleared her throat, causing you to spring apart like two teenagers caught making out. She chuckled, setting down two exquisite plates of crepes before the blushing duo with absolute mirth glinting in her eyes. Dante wasn’t one for feeling bashful, but damn, this was as close as he could get. It felt like he was catching up on a lot of shit he missed out on in life, this whole scenario being one of them. It was nice, in an odd way, to share something so normal and domestic with you.

Bella chortled cheerfully, winking at Dante as she hummed, “Don’t mind me--just dropping off some food. You two enjoy now.”

Dante barely managed to clear his throat, managing a gruff, “Thanks, Bella.”

You nodded, hands pressed to your warms cheeks as you mumbled, “Mhmm...looks great.”

Bella chuckled again, patting your head before sauntering off toward Alex, who was peeking out of a window overlooking the kitchen with unbridled interest in his eyes. Both were absolutely enthralled by this date going on between the two of you, not that Dante could blame them. You two made quite the pair, he a bit scraggly and handsome, rough around the edges. And you... the softest, prettiest looking woman in the shop. Dante wasn’t sure what to make of the whole situation--he definitely felt like he didn’t deserve you, even so early on in this strange relationship in bloom. You were sunshine and flower petals, he was blood and gunpowder. His whole life was the slash of steel through flesh, of demons howling for his death.

There were so many that would hurt you just to get to him.

But seeing your bright eyes, the way your lips curled softly as you lifted a bite of some absolutely beautiful strawberry crepe to your lips...Then the way you looked up at him, eyes gentle with shyness and curls tucked behind your ear--it was enough to wash the worries away, just for that day. Dante was positive that later he would try to talk himself out of it, if only to keep you safe.

But for now…he would forget the worries, and share that moment with you and you alone.

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Top 50 Best Zootopia Fanfiction That You Haven't Read

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Zootopia was released in 2016 in America that too in 3d, it is basically a computer-animated comedy film. From this journey, there have been many Zootopia Fanfiction Lovers all around the globe. Zootopia was released by Walt Disney pictures and the exact release date of Zootopia is February 13, 2016. Let's Begin Our Collection of the Best Zootopia Fanfiction on the internet.

Straight_up_geek Why did Disney make me ship and bunny and a fox together??

Kido Zootopia is one of the few Disney movies I feel actually NEEDS a sequel. There’s so much more world and character building they could do.

zootman Ive never gone crazy with any disney princess couples, but now im shipping a bunny and a fox so hard. Omg

arman-shk If you ship Judy and Nick put a thumbs up. And if you want to let me know why you ship them.

peolk.s Ok but low key Judy and nick remind me so much of rapunzel and Eugene. Must be the similarities that make both of them my favorite movies and characters😍

super35 Why Did Disney Tell Me To Ship Them , THEN NO KISSING SCENE?!?!

love_u I'd be more than happy to see them as an official couple. And if there's a sequel on the way...lead down that road

here_i_am That's now what I say to my friends in gta when somebody attacks me. "Boys, Ice Em "

dum dudu If ever there was an Oscar for best animated performance, Nick Wilde would easily win. Jason Bateman really delivered with this role, especially the fact that he improvised a lot of the dialogue.

c@re They are cute couple specially the fox ia handsome and the bunny is so cute Zootopia was the 55th Disney feature animated movie, Byron Howard and Rich Moore were the directors of this movie. Fanfiction Zootopia lovers are also huge fans of these two individuals. The Co-director of Zootopia was Jared Bush. Zootopia Fanfiction Human Voice lovers who love the voice in the film are mentioned below.

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Zootopia Fanfiction Human version 2020

The voices that rocked the movie all around the world were Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Idris Elba, and others are mentioned down below in the other section of this Zootopia Fanfiction Stories article. The reason why we give the emphasis on these Zootopia fanfiction human voice personalities were the real reason for the blockbuster of Zootopia. YB Judy: it just burns me up to see such a bad attitude forwards foxes.. Also Judy: carries an anti fox spray Alyssa Love the subtle racism. She is surprised that a fox can be smart, and condescendingly praises him for being "articulate." Nick sarcastically calls her non-patronizing afterwards. 😂 Fallen Tacozz Judy: Are your costumers aware... They are getting snot and mucus with there cookies and cream. Boy elephant: Spits out ice cream on girl elephant: )X Random person Judy: are your customers aware their getting snot and mucus in their cookies and cream The couple with cookies and cream: OH FUC- Brandon Christopher The initial prejudice by the cop to assume that violence (reaching for her weapon) was the best way to handle the Fox... That's how it is and feels. Plus being judged by the owner of the ice cream shop in front of everyone is demeaning as well...for example when you're followed around the store and treated poorly wherever you go. (Black people of color equal income and credit get less money for loans for homes and businesses than white people of the exact same qualifications.) Rhonda howard Even when she thinks she's done something nice she's still treating them like they're less than with her tone as the Fox points out. lego nightwing Prejudice is going away but it's still very real. I appreciate all people white, black and all colors and backgrounds who understand this and fights against it. jackson selqiust "Now that is high praise. It's rare that I find someone so non-patronizing." blitz sapphire This is a great subtle jab Nick makes at Judy here that flew over my head the first time I heard it. The praise that Judy gives him is so condescending when you really think about it. It's that "wow, you're really well-spoken for a black person" compliment. Roeland Farah The fur textures in this movie are amazing. Blows my mind tbh Hoping that you guys liked our collection of the best Zootopia Fanfiction Human Version, that we are providing you guys. Please share this as much as possible. Fanfiction Zootopia Stories Updated in 2020 The Story of Zootopia revolves around the unlikely relationship or you can say the partnership between a very smart red fox and a rabbit police officer(who always dreamt of being an officer since Her Childhood). That's why people love Such Fanfiction Zootopia stories. These two try to find out a criminal conspiracy that connects them to the unusual disappearance of the predators.   miss anime "I'd lose my head if it weren't attached to my neck. That's the truth." So me😂😂 dylingr The writing in this scene is so well-written. It captures both the big and small instances of racism that often happens; both the hostile side and the non-hostile side. Favorite moments: "I'm such a..." "You probably can't read, fox" "I just want to say you're a great dad and a real articulate fellow" "Oh, well that is high praise. It's rare that I find someone so non-patronizing. *fake smile*" citavalo If it ended it like that, you can call it a short animation with a message behind it. animal fafic I love this movie so much. It makes me smile, brings up all sort of expressions I'm not aware of until afterwards. That's how you know it's a good movie. You're so invested in it that you don't even know what your face looks like. You're just totally in the world of the film. John martin "real articulate fella" that's the best compliment you could come up with. Did you think he couldn't speak English or something and are pleased he can. Dude you deserved to be had xxlinuxxx Fashionably late guys. Or a sloth uploaded it or something "new and hip" like that lmao. bazil I had this happen at a store when I came in to do some grocery shopping. I'm the type to wear band tees and jeans (it goes with the story I'm about to tell) and that's my usual attire. takimg a shower, dried my hair (which is always wavy and voluminous) brushed my teeth, had to go out to get food. already had some items in my basket when I was looking around in one aisle and an employee who was stocking items was watching me. I smiled at them and went back to looking at the boxes of pasta in front of me. Next thing I know, I have the manager asking me what I was doing and the guy I smiled at standing behind him. bazil I was asked for my ID and when I did, they said that it was fake. I do look younger than I am. They asked me to leave. I said I had money and wanted to pay for my items. They said I won't be paying with anything that's not mine (they thought my ID was fake and my credit cards were fake, therefore, believing I am a thief..like I was just going to walk out with my basket) I said, no everything I have is real and that I'm not a teen looking to steal. Even when I showed the manager my credit cards, he automatically said, "That doesn't mean anything to me." I got a full "up down" look from the stocking guy, like just because I'm very skinny with wild hair and had on a band tee and ripped jeans didn't mean shit. I put my basket down and left. odinia legend has it you can still her the toot toot to this day raven paruli Me: this cookies and cream ice cream is really great! News Cast says that there is bacteria in ice cream We are sure that you people loved our collection of the best Fanfiction Zootopia stories, that we are providing you guys. Please share this as much as possible. Zootopia Fanfiction Lemon Series As the Story continues the fox fond himself having a crush on the lady rabbit officer. We are sure that we have some of the dirty-minded people here visiting this webpage about Zootopia Fanfiction Lemon Stories. Zootopia was released in Belgium in 2d, Digital 3d and also in ReadD 3d, the best was Imax 3d formats in the united states. Mr Choice "We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone" Some establishments are still like that sadly mr abby wabby The moment I first seen this movie and I seen the elephant don't got gloves for they trunks I was like HEALTH HAZARD! 😂lmao puffered fish The ONLY thing I can think of when I see this scene is how unsanitary that ice cream place is XD xin yi zou The thing that always is in my mind is that Judy is my name as well 😂😂😂 warrior dragon564 Got a genuine laugh outta me when i read the description about he uncensored version, lol The killer Me: sees naked animals gagging Also me: sees Marina without her off the hook outfit THIS JUST GROSS AND DISGUSTANG blazelth Only real flaw I can spot: showing Bellweather as the villain in the "trailer". They went out of their way to hide the fact that she was the villain in all the advertising so it could be a big shock once the reveal happened in the movie sea slat Welcome to the Kill Count, where we tally up the victim in all our favorite horror movies! I'm James A. Janisse and today we're looking at Zootopia anonymous FINALLY I GOT WHAT THE HELL I WANTED HE KILLED HER YASS IT FINALLY MAKES SENS Battlr bin me: expects a short fan film casually looks at the duration bar at the bottom left corner me: confused screaming Make sure that you people loved our collection of the best Zootopia Fanfiction Lemon stories, that we are providing you guys. Please share this as much as possible. Zootopia fanfiction Crossover People Also Like the Zootopia Fanfiction crossover stories that why! we also have a series of the best zootopia crossover fanfiction and we can also Zootopia Fanfiction Crossover as well. joseph lay Judy:“You have to let me go” Nick:“I don’t want to let you go” That broke my heart 😭 unfc Judy: "I'm in love with a fox" The entire zootopia universe: "Say sike rn" susanana Nick: “honey tell them to buzz off” “honey who is it?” Awe he already has little names to call Judy 🥺🥰😂 skelei bones Me: sees Miles Walker Miles Walker: future mayor Me: he is evil 😏 max jordon "i call bull.." Nick: "close.. but no dice.. its a buffalo!" swear jokes no3 drive Is everyone just going to skip past the part where Nick goes “and I’m her boy toy 😏 ¯\_(ツ)_/¯” jennings Y'all see the phone, during Nick's song, that shows the sheep holding a gun? destiny ganfic " I bet you use your hand everynight" I laughed so hard when judy said that Alpha 3.o Disney wouldn't have the guts to make a sequel like this. kurt langberg Coffee? You know what that means? Yes, we’ve watched Luke Cage. We know what “coffee” means. we are sure that you guys liked our collection the 50 best Zootopia Fanfiction Stories and people can also say that fanfiction Zootopia stories. It depends on the fanfiction lovers interset. If you people have any suggestions or want any other fanfiction stories like this Zootopia Fanfiction Stories, you can comment down in the comment section below of this article on Fanfiction Zootopia Updates. We just want to make sure that you guys love these Zootopia Fanfiction stories and always keep on reading such Zootopia Fanfiction Crossover. Share these Zootopia Fanfiction Crossover Series to the other fanfiction lovers who are searching for such Fanfiction Zootopia Stories all over the internet. Thank you Best Pokemon Fanfiction Stories     Read the full article