#so when Mo gave him his drink did it mean “what's mine is yours” ?

[pomme-fraise]

Tianshan boyfriends being cute~

Simply love the non-verbal communication between those 2 ❤️

Also could we ask for the next Christmas special in July? 😭🙏 Sure it doesn't make sense, but look at them husbands~ I don't want to wait another 6 months

[navybrat817]

Make Yourself at Home

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Female Reader Summary: You find a familiar face in your home after a long day. Word Count: Over 2.1k Warnings: Pining, fluff, feels, swearing, sass, a bit of humor, mentions of blood and trauma, Bucky Barnes (he’s a warning, okay?) A/N: Hey, lovelies! I began this in June of 2021. That's right! I'm slowly, but surely, trying to make my way through WIPs and this felt good to complete. Shockingly no smut for Sinday. Beta read by the beautiful @buckyownsmylife, but any and all mistakes are my own. Moodboard by the wonderful @sweeterthanthis. Please follow @navybrat817-sideblog for new fics and notifications. Please reblog or comment as it means the world!

To say that you had a rough work day was an understatement. Between spilling your drink all over yourself on your way to your desk, being unprepared for a last minute meeting (which your boss called you out on), and your system crashing right before your report was finished, you were done. All you wanted to do was curl up on the couch with a stiff drink. Anything to forget that you had to stay at that place to get a paycheck. 

I can't even fuck out my frustrations since I'm painfully single. I really need to buy a new toy.

The moment you walked in your front door, you knew it wouldn't be a relaxing evening. The glow from the living room gave it away. Sighing, you tossed your bag and keys down before heading into the room. You weren’t shocked when you saw Bucky Barnes slumped against your couch, but you weren't exactly happy either.

The dark tactical gear clashed with the soft throw pillows surrounding the soldier. He often looked larger than his 6'3" height since he took up space, but he somehow looked like he belonged there. He cut his long locks some time ago, his short, dark hair urging you to run your fingers through it. Maybe you could pull it if he gave you the chance.  

I would have a crush on a man who may have a death wish.

“Hey, doll,” he smirked when he acknowledged your presence. “We really need to stop meeting like this.”

“Well, maybe we would if you would STOP BREAKING INTO MY FUCKING HOUSE!”

He seemed to wince more at your tone than the wound on his right arm. “What can I say? You and your place are comforting.”

You tried to ignore the way your heart raced faster at his sincerity. “You’re bleeding on my couch!”

“Sorry. I’ll get it cleaned or replaced. I promise,” he swore as he sat up more, smiling a bit when you rushed over to help.

“That’s what you said about my rug,” you muttered as you sat down. How does someone bleeding smell so good? He already had your first aid kit, water and towels on the coffee table. He knew by heart where you kept everything. "What happened this time? Who did this to you?"

Bucky’s smile widened as he shifted to give you more room. “Why? Will you take him out for me?”

“I just might,” you said. Truthfully, your heart stopped whenever you saw him in a state like this, even though he bounced back quickly. And you wanted to hurt anyone who hurt him. 

I’ve got it bad. Why am I like this?

"I’m flattered, but I handled him and you don’t need to worry about it. Fucker had a knife up his sleeve though. Not as nice as mine," he told you as you opened the kit, taking a moment to figure out what you needed to clean the wound with.

"Better not let Steve catch you swearing. He might chastise you."

"Don't let that punk fool you. He swears like a sailor and he's still kicking himself for saying 'language' to his team. Wish I could've been there to hear that."

The fondness made you smile a little. You were glad Bucky had a good friend by his side. You were also flattered that Bucky trusted you enough to tell you stories. "Super soldier reflexes certainly don't stop you from getting hurt, do they?"

"Nope. Still human."

"You know, sometimes I think you fake these just so you have an excuse to visit me."

"You caught me," he half joked, something soft in his eyes as he looked at you. 

"Bucky, how many times have you broken in?"

"More than enough," he acknowledged.

The first time Bucky broke into your place, to hide out from someone whose name you can’t even remember, you almost took a swing at him because you thought he was a burglar. You, luckily, recognized the former Winter Soldier and he promised he wouldn’t hide out long. But after the day you had today, you were reconsidering grabbing the nearest object and throwing it at his head. If only for making you worry. 

I doubt it would knock any sense into him. And I shouldn't be mad at him. He didn't do anything. Except break in. Again. 

Every few weeks, Bucky let himself into your place when he got injured or needed a quiet place to relax. Some nights he talked to you and others he hardly said a word. He even left you "thank you" gifts following his visits. Admittedly, you looked forward to them, even on your bad days, because you simply got to see him. You just wish you knew why he kept coming back. 

"Seriously. Why don't you see a doctor or a nurse?" you questioned, carefully dabbing at the cut. "They're much more qualified than I am."

"I told you, doll. You and your place are more comforting."

"Stop calling me doll!"

"Sure thing, sassy," he smirked, making you groan when your cheeks felt hot. 

"Grumpy," you grumbled back at him. 

If I use one of his own knives on him, can I consider it self defense? 

"I'm not grumpy. I'm an old man," he argued.

"You don't look like an old man. My new boyfriend might be jealous."

Your eyes flickered up just in time to catch the tiny tick in his jaw. "You're seeing someone?"

"No," you scoffed, not bothering to continue with the joke. "Still single, like every other time you've shown up."

Bucky slowly exhaled, relaxing against the cushions again. "That's good," he whispered.

Your teeth ground together as you cleaned him up. Maybe it was good to him, but it wasn't to you. It was lonely.

"You okay?" he asked. 

"Fine," you lied, avoiding his gaze.

He gently caught your wrist before you pulled away, the metal cool against your skin. "I really am sorry about the couch. I know the last thing you want is to deal with me."

Guilt crept in when you saw hurt in his icy blue eyes. “It isn’t ‘dealing’ with you, Bucky, and I’m sorry for snapping. Work was shit, but that's no excuse to take it out on you."

“I'm sorry you had a bad day," he swore and you wished the ground would swallow you up. The man was hurt and he felt bad for you. "And I don’t blame you. I did kind of invade your space again.”

“It's okay," you said, glancing at your wrist. He was still holding it, his grip softer than you expected. "Why do you come here? Is it really comforting?”

He sighed as he rested his head against the cushion. “It’s hard to explain.”

“Well, I’m not going anywhere since it’s my place,” you teased, making him chuckle. You did pride yourself on making the often stoic man laugh. “So, try me.”

"You're not afraid of me," he stated, his thumb moving in slow circles over your pulse. You weren't sure if he was aware that he was doing it, but it had your heart racing faster. "Most people are."

"I have no reason to be afraid of you. As many times as you've managed to break in, you would've hurt me long ago if you wanted to," you said, shaking your head. "And I don't think you'll do that."

"I've hurt and killed people," he swallowed as he looked at the ceiling.

You weren't sure if he wanted you to listen or respond, but you chose the latter. "I know," you acknowledged, shifting so you could face him as he lifted his head. "But from what I've heard and what you've told me, it wasn't you, Bucky. You didn't have a choice."

"It doesn't make what happened go away," he said, blinking rapidly at the wetness that filled his eyes.

Seeing him on the verge of tears made you blink a few times, too. You wanted to hug him, but refused to initiate that kind of touch without his permission. "No, it doesn't, but you aren't who they tried to force you to be."

"Then who am I?" his voice cracked as his grip tightened on your wrist.

It doesn't hurt. You won't hurt me.

"You're Bucky," you stated, like it was the simplest thing in the world. "You're a hero and good man. You're also a pain in my ass who keeps ruining my furniture."

Bucky chuckled, his nose scrunching like you told a hilarious joke. The sound soothed the cracks his tears formed in your heart. The pain hadn't left his eyes, but it began to fade. "That easy to answer, huh?"

"I wouldn't say that. I think it's just easier for us to see the best in others because we tend to see the worst in ourselves."

"Is that what you do? See the worst in yourself?"

"I try not to," you admitted, but you were human. It was easy to hyperfocus on your flaws. 

"I don't want you doing that," he said, frowning as his hand moved from your wrist to your fingers. 

The delicate touch had your thighs pressing together. You hoped his super soldier senses didn't detect arousal. Though you pretty much were turned on at some point during each visit, this was a heart-to-heart moment and no time to want him.

"You don't have to worry about me."

"But I do. I worry about you when I'm not around," he said, sitting up a bit as you moved closer. "It's one of the reasons I don't use your front door. I don't want your neighbors to recognize me and be afraid."

"Yes, because breaking and entering is safer. Great logic, grumpy."

Bucky laughed, his eyes warm again. "Can I admit something and you can throw me out, sassy?"

"I won't throw you out, but I'm listening."

He cleared his throat, toying with your fingers. "I don't have nightmares after I see you."

His words hit you in your chest. You didn't know what to say. "You don't?"

"No," a heartbeat passed before he spoke again. "Most nights I wake up in a cold sweat, remembering the screams and fear. I remember everything."

"Bucky, I'm so sorry," you spoke, wishing you could take that pain away.

"The days I see you before I go home, I think of your smile, your scent, even your sass. A woman who showed me kindness time and time again, even on tiring and long days," he smiled sadly as you hung on his every word. "I eventually fall asleep and wake up peacefully. Nothing else I do works."

It was one of the nicest things anyone has ever said to you. "I had no idea."

"It's why I'm glad you don't have a boyfriend because I know he wouldn't tolerate me being around. Among other reasons."

You almost threw yourself at him, but had to maintain your dignity as you carefully leaned in. You weren't sure if the temperature rose in the room, but the sudden tension had you breathing faster. "What other reasons?"

"I think you know," he whispered, his gaze dropping to your lips. 

Oh, shit. 

"For the record, no boyfriend of mine will tell me who I can and can't be friends with."

"I don't doubt that," he said, placing a hand on your cheek. 

"He needs to clean up his messes," you teased. "Like bleeding on my couch."

"That's a given," he smiled, his massive thighs opening so you could move in closer.

"I would also like it if he took me out on a date once in awhile," you added. 

"I can take you out," he offered as you pressed closer, your heart pounding faster. You were practically in his lap and he wasn't stopping you. "Wherever you want to go."

"Yeah? You want to be my boyfriend?" you asked, smiling at how silly the question sounded. "You've already bought me gifts."

"If you'll let me," he answered, his lips a fraction away from yours. "I'll even use the front door."

"I'd like that," you sighed, closing your eyes as his nose touched yours.

Finally. He's finally going to kiss me.

"Buck!" Steve said from the window, climbing inside as the two of you broke apart. Bucky caught you before you fell backwards. The former captain's boots didn't make a sound as they touched the floor, brushing his gloved hands on his thighs. "Why didn't you answer your- Oh. I'm sorry. Am I interrupting?"

Are. You. Fucking. Kidding. Me?!

Bucky ran his hand over his face with a sigh and handed you one of the pillows. "Hey, Steve?"

"Yeah?" 

 "Duck."

*****

Love and thanks for reading! ❤️

[bakerstreethound]

A Daimyo’s Wish

Relationship: Boba Fett x reader 

Warnings: 18+ SMUT, swearing, and thigh riding 

Summary: After months of fantasizing about Boba Fett, an anonymous tip gets out to him, leaving you to reveal your desires for him and his throne. 

All writings belong to me @bakerstreethound​ (do NOT repost or translate my works to any other sites. I only publish here and on A03 under the same username.)

Word Count: 1.3k 

A/N: Blame @pandaqueen7799​ for this fic. Once I started writing Boba, I couldn’t help myself and ended up with this piece for her since Boba decided to be my muse for the day. Please enjoy (: I hope to get back to my other characters soon. *gif isn’t mine* 

=================================

The thing about Boba Fett, the legendary bounty hunter, was that he was way more skilled in the bedroom than he let on. And yet you still somehow find yourself fantasizing about the way his fingers would feel running along your body, making you come undone multiple times over. 

That was before however, someone gave him an anonymous tip, and a few extra credits later that you somehow found yourself standing before him in the throne room, nothing but the occasional sound of traders bartering outside.  Not that it was by any means a regular occurrence. You never imaged coming undone by him while sitting in his lap, working you to his will. Never let yourself get caught in a daydream when he reviewed the newest happenings in Mos Eisley or organized missions and consulted Fennec with citizen’s concerns, especially with the spice runners.  You were definitely not consumed by thinking of being railed by him in every position or way possible. Not a question or concern at all. 

“Did you catch any of that?” His voice drones on through his modulator, pulling you from your stupor. Currently the throne room was occupied with Boba and Fennec finishing off an important deal, a few exchanging of credits here and there. You yawn a few times, shifting on your feet to keep from falling asleep, that was until you realized he was talking to you, and you were the one before his throne.

“A few bits here and there, daimyo, yes. Although I doubt it was of any importance.” 

Fennec purses her lips from her spot on the arm of the throne, choking down her drink, her crafty eyes lit with mischief. 

“I could certainly get you in line, maybe,” Boba continues, brushing off your remark. “For the right price, which luckily for you, I happened to spare a few hours today free of any obligations.” 

“How generous of you, although you trust Fennec to hold the fort down?” 

“As if I need you questioning my authority here. I was told you came here willingly. Eager was the word used. “ 

“Eager?” You can’t help but raise a questioning brow. 

“Enthusiastic, insatiable and that was putting it mildly.” He chuckles, adjusting himself slightly on the throne, making no effort to move.  Fennec casually slipped away, tossing a knowing glance to you, which you ignored, fighting the urge to roll your eyes. 

“I wouldn’t be so sure, old man.” 

His fingers tap against the armrests of the throne, adjusting himself so his legs spread in a more relaxed position. What you didn’t expect was the index finger he crooked at you, patting his thigh in offering. “I would use your words wisely, little one.” 

You step closer, swallowing the bubbling excitement and thrill already coursing through your body. Once you’re an arm's length away you settle into his lap, surprised at how comfortable he is. You’d never imagined being on the lap of one of the most legendary and fearsome and lethal bounty hunters known to the galaxy. A wake of thrilling shivers follows the thought, and you can feel the smirk formed under Boba’s helmet. You huff in impatience, grasping the sides of his helmet, asking in silent question and he reaches up to gently pull it off, his face in all its battle scarred glory, brought to the light. You took a moment to compose yourself almost breathless just gazing into his piercing brown eyes locked on to you, the way your body pressed into his. 

His hands slowly trail along your body, gripping your waist tight. “Are you comfortable, mesh’la?” You can’t fight up the burning sensations building up inside you and you squirm. He smirked at your response, trailing his lips along your neck with the softest of touches, causing you to lean into him more, the sparks not letting up, the already sweltering heat embedding into your skin, daring to implode you with every touch he left. 

“Yes, it’s good.” 

One of his hands reached to trail a finger along your jaw, tilting your chin up a fraction, his lips brushing against yours. “What do you say, cyar’ika?” 

“Please,” the whispered plea fell from your lips before you could stop it, and his lips capture your own in a gentle fiery kiss, deepening with each plea falling from your lips as his hands wander along you, tracing up your thigh, daring to brush his fingers along you. “Fuck,” your eyes flutter shut at the sensation, and you bite back another groan. He smirks despite himself, hands gripping your waist, his fingers sliding under your waistband stroking you so slowly the ache burning coursing inside you, your senses already screaming in retaliation. He pulls his fingers away, chuckling, causing you to whimper at the loss. 

“All in due time, mesh’la; I want to take you on a ride to see the stars.”

He shifts under you slightly, his thigh pressing up against you when he shifts you over, and you bite your lip. He sucks marks along your neck, biting your lips harshly, enjoying the sight of you above him, and he cups your breasts in encouragement, causing you to groan. You hated to admit how embarrassingly soaked you are for him, grinding against him harder, fueled with desperation needing to chase that high he was driving you to in the brink of madness. . 

“My my jatisyc,” his hands grip your hips so tight; you are sure bruises will be there by morning and to hell with anyone who dared touch you. There would be no doubt among it that you were his and his alone. Your neck bruised as well, marked and claimed by the fearsome Boba Fett. He doesn’t let up, intent on getting you to your release of pleasure, murmuring praises and encouragement. “Just like that, cyar’ika, yes no one else can have you. Look at you riding my thigh so well. This is what you’ve wanted, hmm?” 

You don’t have room left to answer, for all you feel is the rush, a sob wrenching deep within your chest, you’re sure everyone near the vicinity can hear you, but you could care less, your mouth is dry and raw, all you can do is beg for more and he grips you tighter, willing you to continue riding him faster and harder, his hand slipping under your waistband, fingers pulling tricks to make you come undone once more only for him. It’s not long before he’s bringing you to your second release and you don’t fight it, crashing into his lips to suppress your moaning. 

He kisses you back with as much vigor, relishing in the conquest you both longed for. He removed his fingers and held your trembling body tight. “I think best you drink this,” he brushes back a stray lock of hair and hands you some water which you accept and sip slowly, allowing the coolness to sooth your burning throat. 

A blush forms on your face as your brain slowly begins to process the occurrence and you can't help but avoid his gaze, even as he strokes your back gently, allowing you to readjust back in his lap after getting himself under control. You can’t help but smirk and slightly wiggle against him. 

“Would you like to sit on something more comfortable? You had quite the exertion today.” He offers a small bemused grin. 

“I’m sure we could make use of the springs some other time, my daimyo. But tell me what else do you wish for?” 

He raises a brow. “Would you like me to answer? Because I’ve wanted to do that with you ever since you came here. Although, I do suppose I could leave a few more of my marks on you.

You roll your eyes in amusement, pecking his cheek, not doubting for a moment he truly left his mark. No one else could have you or lay claim to you for you were his and his alone. 

******

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like to be added to my tags

@bakerstreethound​ @disneymarina​ @groovy-lady​ @lilythemadqueen​ @starks-hero​

[perriewinklenerdie]

Boys and men (MO, 6/17, Ethan x MC)

Missed Opportunities Series, Chapter 6

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Claire Herondale

Word count: 720

Summary: All the times when Ethan could have told Claire he loved her but didn’t, and one time he did. Told through Ethan’s eyes.

Warnings: None for now

A/N: I strongly believe in Claire-Tobias friendship. Ethan does not agree.

The team was on their way back to the hospital, talking about anything but the case or the hospital. Ethan and Tobias were walking side by side, bickering about something they both remembered from their med school days. Claire rolled her eyes, catching up to Harper, both women remaining a few steps ahead of the other two doctors. They locked their arms together, leaning closer to laugh at their colleagues.

“Boys.” The blonde doctor sighed, joining Harper in giggles. Tobias sped up his walk, catching the attention of his female coworkers.

“What do you mean ‘boys’?” he asked, offended, and ran up to them. His arms wrapped around both Claire and Harper’s arms, bringing them into a side hug. “I think you meant ‘men’.”

Claire laughed. “You wish. That pissing contest you two are pulling all day?” She looked over her shoulder at Ethan. “Boys. Until further notice.” She winked at him, earning herself a scoff. His eyes were focused on Tobias’s arm around her. She noticed, raising an eyebrow at him briefly before sliding away from the hug. Letting Harper and Tobias get a head start on them both, she waited for Ethan to catch up to her.

“A boy?” he coughed, unable to ignore the teasing smirk she gave him. Claire sneaked her arms around his waist.

“Do you have any objections?” she mused lowly, moving her eyes to his. Her hot gaze made his whole body buzz. He pressed their bodies closer together, dropping his voice to a deep murmur, his breath warm against her face.

“In your own experience.” He ground his hips against hers shamelessly, making them both struggle to suppress a moan full of need. “Did any boy do things to you the way I do?” He bit her lower lip, taking his sweet time pulling on it.

She gasped softly, twisting her fingers into his shirt. Ethan continued, as though he completely forgot where they were. “Did you say their name the way you sing and scream mine?” he ran his mouth along the line of her cheekbone until he reached her ear. “Did they make you come the way I do?”

“Ethan- “

“Did they?” he kissed her ear, humming hotly. She responded to him beautifully and he knew that an enormous part of it was because of what was between them. Because of love that was between them. He felt her, like a higher frequency that made him pick up the signals and cues she gave him much easier.

“You know they didn’t.” she leaned away enough to make it possible for him to kiss her. He felt his inhibitions leave him one again and suddenly he was pulling her away from the sidewalk and into a shallow alley, away from prying eyes. His hands began wandering, being everywhere and nowhere at the same time. They settled on her ass, squeezing and pressing on the soft flesh to pull her closer. “Ethan!” she exclaimed, giggling at his carefree behavior as she looked around to see if anyone noticed. No one did, and so she felt herself losing focus on her surroundings too, giving into the kiss, following his lead. Their teeth clashed, their bodies rolled against one another in waves and neither cared if anyone noticed. Her teeth sank into his lower lip. A small groan of his own slipped past his defenses, making an opening for those three words that he tried so hard to not say at the wrong time. Claire noticed his loss of focus, writing it all up to the electric current that flew between them like a wild river. “Anything else to say?” she grinned when he stammered, proud of herself for turning him into mush.

“Only one thing.” He said when she began to dance away from him, her steps following some tune he couldn’t hear. Hesitation caught up to him almost immediately. His brain was nagging him with those three words, yet his consciousness refused to say it out loud.

Not yet.

He ran up to her, grabbing her hand in his. “I’m more than happy to do all those things to you. Again.” he chose to say those words instead, letting the three words fall into his mind and heart. He kissed her cheek, smiling. “Just you wait until I get you home.”

Notes

One could argue that he’s getting closer to saying it. And I’d say that this statement is true. That does not mean that he’ll stop being an idiot, we’re not even halfway through the book. In the meantime, their relationship is going to blossom. 

For obvious reasons (season 5 part 1 dropped today and I’m not okay), I am going to turn into LCDP/Money Heist trash for the forseeable future. Nothing out of ordinary, just a bit of a warning.

The next chapter is called Colorful drinks

Thank you so much for reading, I hope you enjoyed it, see you soon!

Perrie <3

[just-dreaming-marvel]

Out Of Time ~ 140

MASTERLIST

< previous chapter

Word Count: 2,325ish

Summary: The Starks receive unexpected visitors, that come with a plan. 

Warning: Possible gif overload. Gifs aren’t mine. I just love Tony and Morgan.

Before the small Stark family knew it, it was October of 2023. And their house had become a wonderful home for them.

Morgan was four and almost the spitting image of her father. She was smart like him too. She loved working with her father in his workshop or playing outside in the tent Tony bought for her. 

Y/N had got into gardening, especially because they were kind of far away from any grocery store. Tony was a willing helping hand and was slowly becoming a small farm boy. It bought a few small goats, an alpaca, a couple of chickens, two cats, and was planning on getting a dog for Morgan for Christmas.

Steve and Natasha only visited when Tony was gone or Y/N and Morgan went to them. Tony was still struggling to forgive after everything, and Y/N wasn’t willing to push Tony more than he had willingly done himself.

Y/N was currently in the kitchen, making lunch, while Tony was “being helpful”.

“Are these our gojis?” Tony wondered, looking at the bowl of berries.

“They are not,” Y/N answered as she cut tomatoes.

“What’s wrong with ours?”

“Your alpaca ate them all.”

“Oh.”

“All of them.”

Tony laughed, moving to the other side of Y/N. “What a glowing endorsement. First of all Gerald is our alpaca.”

Y/N scoffed out a small chuckle. “He’s not my alpaca if he’s eating my goji’s.”

“Okay.” He grabbed a handful of berries. “They’re gonna be nice in the salad right there, right?”

“No.” Y/N quickly reach over to stop Tony. “Don’t, don’t, don’t!” Tony looked at her with big doe eyes. “Could you put it down?” She gently pushed his arm away. “And get out of my kitchen.”

“Okay.” He turned towards the stove and crashed into some pots. “Whoops.” Trying to bite back a smile, Y/N looked up at the ceiling. “We’re good here, right?”

“Yeah, we’re great.” She got back to chopping. “Tell Madam Secretary that lunch is in five.”

“I will collect our alpha female, posthaste,” Tony replied, before exiting the house.

Y/N couldn’t help but grin as she focused back on the food. She was so lucky. So very lucky.

~~~

Tony walked down the porch steps, clapping out a beat. 

“Chow time!” He called out to his daughter, heading towards her little play area. “Maguna?” He sat on a small chair outside of her tent. “Morgan H. Stark. Want some lunch?”

Morgan appeared from the fort with a suit helmet on and a fake suit glove. She had her gloved hand pointed at her father.

“Define lunch or be disintegrated,” she demanded in her young voice.

“Okay,” he ran his fingers down the helmet to the edge. “You should not be wearing that, okay? That is part of a special anniversary gift I’m making for mom.” He kissed the side of the helmet before removing the helmet from Morgan’s head and brushing the hair from her face.

“Okay.”

“There you go. Are you thinking about lunch? Wand a handful of crickets?”

“No,” she laughed.

“That’s what you want.” Tony held up the helmet. “How did you find this?”

“Garage.”

“Really? Were you looking for it?”

“No. I found it, though.”

“You like going to the garage, huh?” Morgan nodded as Tony lifted her up and set her on his hip. “So does daddy. It’s fine actually. Mom never wears anything I buy her.”

As they made their way to the house, a black car pulled up and parked in the driveway. Steve, Natasha, and Scott Lang stepped out as Y/N came out of the house to see what was holding Tony and Morgan up. They all were looking at Tony, who was avoiding Steve’s gaze and gave a slight nod to Natasha.

“Uncle Steve!” Morgan exclaimed, trying to wiggle out of her father’s arms. “Auntie Nat!”

Tony failed to keep her there, and let her run to welcome the guests. Y/N and Tony shared a look. They knew that, since Scott was with them, this wasn’t just a friendly visit. Y/N walked down the porch, to where Morgan was chatting Steve’s ear off in his arms.

“Hey, Mo,” Y/N called to her daughter. “Why don’t we go inside and make drinks for everyone? Then you can talk your uncle’s ear off.”

“Okay,” she sighed, turning to reach Y/N. Y/N took her from Steve.

“Please don’t ask anything stupid of him,” Y/N whispered to Steve. “He’s—we’re finally happy.”

Steve didn’t bother to answer, which Y/N huffed about before heading into the house with Morgan. Tony, Steve, Nat, and Scott gathered on the porch as Morgan and Y/N made drinks inside. Scott was explaining something when Y/N brought a tray of drinks out to Tony. She wished she could hear what they were talking about, but she needed to stay in with Morgan. Y/N watched from the window as she fed Morgan.

“Now, we know what it sounds like—“ Scott said, finishing his story.

“Tony, after everything you’ve seen, is anything really impossible?” Steve interrupted.

“Quantum fluctuation messes with the Planck Scale, which then triggers the Deutsch Proposition. Can we agree on that?” Tony asked, handing out drinks. 

“Thank you.”

“In Layman's terms, it means you're not coming home.”

“I did,” Scott said.

“No, you accidentally survived. It's a billion to one cosmic fluke. And now you wanna pull off a... What do you call it?”

“A time heist?”

“Yeah, a time heist. Of course, why didn't we think of this before? Oh, because it's laughable? Because it's a pipedream?”

“The Stones are in the past. We can go back and get them.”

“We can snap our own fingers,” Natasha stated. “We can bring everyone back.”

“Or screw it up worse than he already has, right?” Tony responded.

“I don’t believe we would,” Steve said.

“Gotta say, sometimes I miss that giddy optimism. However, high hopes won't help if there's no logical, tangible way for me to safely execute said time heist. I believe the most likely outcome would be our collective demise.” Tony sat down.

“Not if we strictly follow the rules of time travel,” Scott replied. “That means no talking to our past selves, no betting on sporting events—“

Tony held a hand out. “I’m gonna stop you right there, Scott. Are you seriously telling me that your plan to save the universe is based on Back To The Future?”

“No.”

“Good. You had me worried there. 'Cause that'd be horse shit. That's not how quantum physics works.”

“Tony…” Natasha called. “We have to take a stand.”

“We did stand. And yet, here we are.”

“I know you got a lot on the line. You got a wife, a daughter. But I lost someone very important to me. A lot of people did,” Scott was pleading. 

Y/N could see that Tony was getting overwhelmed and she quickly told her daughter to go and save him. 

“And now, now we have a chance to bring her back,” Scott continued. “To bring everyone back. And you're telling me that won't even—“

“That’s right, Scott, I won’t even. I got a kid.”

Morgan ran up to Tony, who quickly set her in his lap. “Mommy told me to come and save you,” she said.

“Good job. I’m saved.” Tony stood up, facing his friends. "I wish you'd come here to ask me something else. Anything else. Honestly, I... I missed you guys, it was... Oh, and table's set for six.”

“Tony, I get it. And I'm happy for you and Y/N, I really am. But this is a second chance.”

“I got my second chance right here, Cap. I can't roll the dice again. If you don't talk shop, you can stay for lunch.” He headed inside.

“Talk to Y/N about it. Think it over.”

“No need. We can’t risk this.”

Tony entered the house, holding Morgan close. He went straight into the kitchen to get washed up for lunch. Y/N watched as their three visitors walked back to Steve’s car. Steve looked back at the house, making eye contact with Y/N through the window.

~~~

Tony was quieter than usual the rest of the day. This worried Y/N, but she couldn’t let it get to her. She needed to take care of Morgan. They made dinner together and Tony and Morgan chatted loudly over dinner. He even offered to do the dishes while Y/N tucked in Morgan. 

As Tony finished the last of the dishes, he lost hold of the hose, causing water to spray everywhere. Including the small shelves beside the sink that held a photo of Howard and a photo of Tony and Peter. Seeing the photo of Peter slightly wet, Tony grabbed it to dry it off. Looking down he say Peter’s face. He missed that kid so much. He looked up, with a determination he hadn’t felt in a while.

When Y/N came down from tucking in Morgan, Tony was at a table. He was talking to FRIDAY and playing around with a hologram. She knew very well to leave him alone when he was like this, so she grabbed her book and curled up on the couch.

Tony was still going strong about an hour and a half later:

"Look at a mod inspiration, let me see what check out,” he told FRIDAY. “So, recommend one last sim before we pack it in for the night. This time, in the shape of a mobius strip, inverted, please.”

“Processing,” FRIDAY responded.

“Give me that eigenvalue. That, particle factoring, and a spectral decomp. That will take a second.” He stuffed some food in his mouth.

“Just a moment.”

“And don’t worry if it doesn’t pan out. I’m just kinda—“

“Model rendered.”

Tony fell back into a chair, in complete shock and amazement. “Shit!”

“Shit,” Morgan giggled.

Tony turned around to see Morgan sitting on the stairs behind him, large smile on her face.

“Sshhh,” Tony shushed, finger over his mouth. “What are you doing up, little miss?” He whispered.

“Shit,” she repeated.

“No, we don't say that. Only Mommy says that word. She coined it, it belongs to her.”

“Why you up?”

“'Cause I got some important shit going on here.” Morgan raised a brow at her father, not impressed. “What do you think? No, I got something on my mind. I got something on my mind.”

“Was it Juice Pops?”

“Sure was. That’s extortion.” He stood up and took his daughter’s hand. “Great minds think alike. Juice Pops, exactly was on…” Tony looked back at the model before heading to the kitchen with Morgan, “…my mind.”

~~~

“You done?” Tony asked with a smile on his face. Morgan was lying in her bed, finishing a Juice Pop. “Yeah, now you are.” He took the popsicle stick before wiping Morgans lips with his sleeve and pushing her head onto her pillow. “That face goes there.”

“Tell me a story,” Morgan said.

“A story… Once upon a time, Maguna went to bed. The end.”

“That’s a horrible story,” Morgan giggled.

“Come on, that's your favorite story. I love you tons.” He kissed Morgan on the forehead as he stood up.

“I love you 3000.”

Tony grinned, “wow,” he mouthed, putting the popsicle stick in his mouth. He turned off her lamp and headed to the door. “3000. That’s crazy. Go to bed. Or I’ll see all your toys. Night, night.”

Tony shut the door and heading to the living room. Y/N was still curled up reading.

“Not that it's a competition, but she loves me 3000,” Tony stated as he came up to the side of the couch. 

“Oh does she now?” Y/N questioned.

“You were somewhere on the low 6 to 900 range.” Y/N scoffed as Tony chewed on the stick and looked at the fireplace. “What are you reading?”

“Oh, it's just a book on composting,” she responded.

“What's new with composting?”

“Just—“

“I figured it out, by the way.”

Y/N looked up at Tony. “You know, just so we're talking about the same thing—“

“Time travel.”

“What? Wow… I… That’s amazing, and… terrifying.”

“That’s right.” Tony sat down on the other end of the couch.

Y/N reached over and squeezed Tony’s shoulder. “We got really lucky.”

“Yeah, I know.”

“A lot of people didn’t.”

“No, I can't help everybody.”

“It sort a seems like you can.”

“Not if I stop. I can put a pin in it right now, and stop.”

“Tony… getting each other to stop has been one of the few failures of our lives.”

He smiled lightly at her. “I sometimes feel I should put it in a locked box and drop it at the bottom of a lake... go to bed.”

“But would you be able to rest? Cause I sure as hell won’t be able to… I’ll stand by your side no matter you choose.”

“You already know what I’ll choose though, don’t you? Cause you’ve seen in.”

“I haven’t seen it… but I know that last fight isn’t the last.”

“I just… I can’t lose you and Morgan.”

“You won’t.” Y/N grabbed Tony’s hand. “We’re going to do this. Together…” She leaned in and kissed him softly. “Your lips taste like Juice Pops,” she giggled against his lips.

“Is that a bad thing?”

“Not at all.” 

She shook her head before kissing him again, this time more heated. Tony pulled her onto his lap.

“What would you say to grabbing some Juice Pops and taking this upstairs?” Y/N panted slightly.

“I wouldn’t be opposed.” He placed on last kiss on Y/N’s lips before standing them both up. “I’ll grab the pops, meet you up stairs.”

“We have to be quiet though. Last time Morgan almost walked in on us.”

“Oh, don’t worry. FRIDAY won’t let that happen again.”

next chapter >

NOTES: Sorry about the time jump. Please send in requests for one shots or questions you want answered about the missing time. Try to be specific.

If you want to be added to the tag list, please dm me or send in an ask.

[twink-appreciation-posts]

Simple Victimology (Spencer Reid x Reader)

chapter one of “all bets are off”

“An agent of the BAU is exactly the unsub's type. Pretty convenient, right? Well, turns out she's exactly Dr. Spencer Reid's type as well. All it took for him to admit it was a bit of... performative seduction.”

{notes: sorry if this was is bit too dialogue heavy! i just needed to get all the groundwork/backstory laid out lmao. anyway action and NSFW content is coming up next chapter.}

"So our unsub's victimology is quite clear, right? I mean, almost to an irrational degree. All the women he's attacked have been dressed similarly, with similar body types, similar makeup." Dr. Spencer Reid mused, his eyes scanning the photographs up on the wall. "And he just doesn't seem to strike women who are alone. He enjoys the thrill of stealing his victims away from other men."

You let out a sigh. The case you and the rest BAU had been working on was fairly straight cut: psychotic sexual sadist who abducts his victim from parties, tortures them for months, then dumps the bodies in the woods.

"But it just doesn't make sense. With such a specific MO, he must rarely find a target that's suitable for him to strike." You shook your head. "It's not a trait that lends itself well to a serial killer."

"That's probably why he spends so much time with each of his victims. An attempt to keep him satisfied between hunts." Derek agreed.

Rossi piped up next. "The specificity leads me to believe he's chasing after a very certain high.. trying to recreate a specific person or moment through his delusions." He continued. "Our best chance of drawing him out is to send out the perfect victim. He's the type who can't afford to pass up the opportunity when he sees one."

Silence. Everyone on the team knew what happened last time they had sent an agent out as bait. No one was sure they were ready to take that type of chance again.

Spencer's eyes continued to scan the pictures and then, suddenly, you felt the weight of his eyes on you. "Y/N looks pretty close to the unsubs type.." He said hesitantly.

"No," Hotch began "We're not sending our own agent out into the field of a sexual sadist as bait."

You stood up quickly. "No, it's okay." You spoke firmly, your own gaze fixated on the previous victims' images. "All we need to do is draw him out, right? You guys will be with me the whole time. I'm not a risk. I can do it."

Silence befell the room again, until Hotch broke it. "Alright. Reid, Prentiss, go over the victimology one more time. Make sure we get this right. We'll send Y/N out tonight."

"That still leaves the issue of the male companion, sir." Emily piped up.

"I'll do it." Morgan volunteered. "I feel at home on the dance floor anyway. Easy cover." He chuckled.

"No..." Rossi thought out loud. " We need someone who's not threatening. Someone who has zero chance of jeopardizing this mission. Zero chance of scaring our unsub off."

Everyone almost instantly turned to Reid. It was almost comical. He blinked a few times, processing the implications of everyone's stare. "Oh. Yeah. I guess I fit that description." He smiled weakly.

"So it's settled then. Get to work agents."

And without another word, you each followed Hotch's orders. You remained in the conference room with Spencer and Emily, psyching yourself up for your first mission as bait.

"The women that our unsub target are all dressed..." Spencer trailed off.

"Provocatively." You finished for him. "They're all wearing short dresses. Lots of skin exposed. And, from what we've gathered, they all seem to be a fan of the party life. Witnesses at the sight of the abduction told us that the girls don't shy away from the taboo. Drugs, drinking, dancing, you name it."

Emily nodded. "You up for that, Y/N?" She questioned half-jokingly.

"You should be asking Spencer if he's up for dealing with that side of me." You jested, glancing up at him. He gave you a reassuring shrug, one that could've been mistaken for a wince, and you shoved him gently. "Don't worry Spence. I won't go too wild. Anyway, I should probably get home and grab a change of clothes. They'll want to have as much time as possible to wire me." You turned on your heel, walking out of the conference room.

"I'll be back!" You announced to the rest of the team.

"Y/N, wait!" Spencer jogged up behind you. "I, uh, I should probably get changed too, right? I mean, I don't want to look too out of place."

You gave him the good ol' once over and pondered for a moment.

"Do you own anything that doesn't look like a TA would wear on his first day of class?" Derick teased from his desk.

"I have some dress shirts, at least." Spencer replied seriously.

"Well I'll give you a ride, then." You offered. "Your place is pretty close to mine." Spencer nodded and followed you out the door.

"Do I really dress like a TA?" He questioned, partially to himself.

"Maybe, but like a TA that all the freshman girls would have a crush on." You patted his shoulder reassuringly.

The car ride to Spencer's place was a relatively quiet one. You discussed the case, you asked Spencer if he thought the plan would work. He seemed pretty confident it would.

"If you want you can just wait here for a second. I really just need to grab the clothes and we can head to your place." He explained once you had parked.

"Go for it." You replied.

He came back, a couple of shirts and ties in hand, and shut the car door. You began driving once again.

"So, Y/N, did you um, used to party a lot back in college?" He asked you. You smiled.

"A bit. I had some fun, that's for sure. I was always pretty focused on my academics, though. Not as much as you were though, I'm sure. A few of my friends used to call me "the fortune teller". I had a habit of making guesses on what would happen at the parties we went to. Who would hook up with who, who would black out first, stuff like that." You reminisced.

"Profiling your fellow party-goers." Reid chuckled.

"I suppose so."

You escorted Reid up to your apartment when you arrived. He commented that it seemed like a nice place. You thanked him. Casual small-talk was made. You began to dig through your closet, searching for a dress that would entice the unsub. "What color shirts did you bring?" You asked.

He quickly shuffled through his options. "Black, grey, white.. why?"

"Just wanted to make sure we wouldn't clash. Can't have a red dress with a blue shirt, right? We're supposed to be going to this party together."

"Oh, smart."

You pulled out two dresses, both of which were from your younger days. You prayed they would still fit. "Which one do you think?" You held them up to Spencer.

"Well, they're both.. they're both pretty. I like them both." He replied, analyzing them.

"Well, yeah . But I mean, which one do you think the unsub would prefer?" You chuckled.

He flushed. "Right. I'd say the dark red one. It reminds me of the dress from the first victim."

You nodded. The dress crushed velvet. Tight. Short. Exposing. But oh well, you figured, this was your job. "I'm gonna change in the bathroom. Feel free to change out here."

You exited the bedroom, leaving him alone. When you had finished slipping on the dress, which fortunately had fit perfectly, you slipped back into the bedroom. Spencer was buttoning up the last few buttons of his shirt. Your eyes followed his fingers, the way they methodically worked, and when he was done he looked up at you.

You both took a beat.

"You look great, Y/N." He coughed a bit, eyeing you up and down. "Ready to catch our unsub." He added quickly.

"You too, Doctor." You grinned. "I think we'll make quite a convincing pair." You grabbed some heels from your closet and motioned for him to follow you back out of the apartment. "Back to work we go!" You sing-songed, starting up the engine.

Almost the instant you stepped into the door of the BAU offices you were bombarded by Hotch a few additional FBI agents. Hotch began to go over the plan meticulously:

Make it appear like you've been drinking. Reid will leave to "go to the bathroom". You go outside for a "smoke break". The unsub will follow you from inside the club. The rest of the team will be staked out in a car near by. Keep the unsub talking. He'll offer to buy you a drink. Accept. He'll go back inside and bring it to you. It's drugged. Do not drink it. Keep the cup as evidence. That's when the others will come to put the guy in cuffs. Reid will be just inside if things seem like they're going to go sideways.

"Jeez, Hotch, I may not have an eidetic memory, but I can remember this. I promise."

Once you were wired up, JJ and Emily began the proccess of your hair and makeup. For a moment, it was almost cute. It was like you were getting ready for a girls night. Except, you supposed, that it was all in the name of baiting a serial killer.

When the clock hit 9pm you and Reid were shuffled off back into your car and given directions to the bar that you would be staking out.

"We didn't have much time to talk in there, what with Hotch being up our asses about the plan. How are you feeling?" You asked.

Spencer didn't reply.  Nerves, you figured. "Spence?"

He shook his head, almost as if he had snapped out of a trance. "Ah, yeah sorry. I feel pretty good. I mean, I'm confident we'll catch our unsub." A moment of hesitation. "JJ and Emily did a great job on your makeup. You look... great."

You felt your face heat up. Why was a compliment from Spencer Reid making you nervous? "Thanks."

At 10pm you were pulling into the parking lot of the bar. It was almost full. Tons of people must've been inside. Your unsub included. You took a moment of pause. "Time to get into character." You wiped your sweaty hands on the crushed velvet fabric of your dress.

"The rest of the team must be down the block." Reid nodded.

You looked towards him anxiously and stepped out of the car. He followed suit, coming around to the passenger side and grabbing your hand. You squeezed it gently, not sure if it was to calm your nerves or his, or just because you wanted to.

"Come on, babe!" You exclaimed, pulling him towards the entrance.

It must've caught him off gaurd, but he just chuckled. "I've been waiting for this night all week."

[eirist]

Little Bits and Pieces of Heaven

WISH COME TRUE

One-shot #: 27

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: T

Note: What is there to say but… HAPPY BIRTHDAY NAMI!!!

Summary: Birthday wishes might be overrated but not when they are made to come true.

“HAPPY BIRTHDAY NAMI!!!”

The whole crew greeted in unison the moment the orange-haired navigator stepped inside the decorated galley—in the midst of popping confetti, clapping and shouting.

Their voices were surprisingly in sync and Nami wondered if they practiced the greeting days before her birthday or they were just that enthusiastic.

“Ah! Minna! Thank you!” She gushed as she looked at the happy, grinning faces of her crewmates and her own smile widened some more.

The room was filled with balloons in different colors of orange, white and silver. Some were floating up the ceiling with glittering streamers hanging down from them. Others were scattered all over the galley floor. There were letter balloons at the far end of the room with the words HAPPY BIRTHDAY spelled out.

The Straw Hats went all out with the decorating and Nami can’t help but be pleased.

“You guys… this is wonderful!” She exclaimed as a whirl of hearts appeared suddenly in front of her.

“Nami-swan! Happy birthday!” Sanji stopped twirling and dropped down on one knee in front of the mapmaker. He held her hand in his, bowing slightly before planting a kiss on it. “Your birthday feast is ready my sweet mellorine!”

“Arigatou, Sanji-kun!” Nami glanced at the table, filled with delicious food and desserts, with a beautifully made three-tier cake in the middle, complete with sparklers.  “Everything looks amazing!”

“Anything for you my love!” The blond cook sang and froze in happiness when Nami blew him a kiss.

“Nami! Happy birthday!” Chopper cheerily approached her and took her other hand, tugging her towards the direction of the table. They left Sanji, still frozen and kneeling down on one knee.

“Thank you Chopper!” She lifted him up and kissed his cheek. Chopper blushed and giggled and pointed towards the cake. “Time to blow the candles and make a wish.”

“Yeah!” Luffy shouted, eyes sparkling from too much excitement at the food in front of him. “Come on Nami hurry, hurry!”

Nami just chuckled at her captain’s impatience. Normally that would earn him a knuckle on the head but since this day is special… she decided to just let it go.

“Alright. Alright!” She said as she approached the table. She smiled at Robin, Franky and Brook as they all greeted her before marveling at the astounding cake in front of her.

“Wow!” She breathed out.

“Make a wish Nami!” Chopper said as he jumped on the empty dining chair to get a good view when she finally blew the candles out.

“Faster witch,” Zoro drawled on her other side. He was sitting on the chair on her left, already enjoying a tankard of his favorite alcohol. “Luffy’s about to turn rabid from hunger.”

She narrowed her eyes at him yet he only smirked at her, muttering a ‘happy birthday’ before taking a drink from his mug as Luffy chanted ‘meshi! meshi!’ in the background.

“Come on birthday girl!” Usopp coerced her. “Make a wish and then blow the candles!”

“Oi you idiots! Don’t rush Nami-san!” Sanji bellowed as he finally recovered from Nami’s earlier blown kiss.

“It’s alright Sanji-kun!” Nami’s smile at him was enough to stop the chef in his tracks as hearts started popping out from him. She closed her eyes, silently making some wishes from her heart, before taking a deep breath and blowing the cake’s candles so they can start the celebration.

Cheers broke out when she was able to blow them all in one go. Chopper was elatedly announcing how her wish will come true because of that.

Nami certainly hope so.

“Well what are we waiting for?” Usopp hollered as Sanji took her hand again to guide her to the seat at the head of the table—something Luffy graciously gave up for Nami’s special day (with some cajoling and promises of meat).

“It’s time to celebrate Nami’s birthday!!!”

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

“Gimme.”

Zoro paused in the middle of bringing his mug to his lips when Nami held out her hand to him, her palm facing upward.

“What?” He cocked an eyebrow at her.

Nami thrust her hand closer to his face, her fingers moving in a give me motion.

Zoro just continued looking at her blankly.

She made a face at him. “Gosh Zoro. Even Luffy has given me something for my birthday.”

“Tch.”

Nami sighed, resting both hands on her hips. No use teasing this surly swordsman if he have a birthday present for her.

Because the answer’s most likely no.

Well she was expecting it. But of course that doesn’t mean she wasn’t disappointed.

She just decided to shove that thought down the deepest recesses of her mind and just enjoy her birthday celebration.

“You going anywhere tomorrow?” Zoro suddenly asked just when she was about to turn her back on him.

“Huh?” She blinked curiously at him. “Why?”

Zoro regarded her for a moment. “Let’s go somewhere.”

Nami’s ears perked up at that and her eyes widened. Go somewhere?

Did he just… did he mean…

“Where?” She inquired almost breathlessly, her heart racing.

Zoro smirked. “You’ll find out tomorrow.” He stood up and made a grab for the bottle half-filled with sake. “Happy Birthday Nami.” With that he moved to exit the galley to head to the nest for his watch, leaving her dumbfounded.

Honestly… did he just like… ask her out?

Seems like one of her birthday wishes will come true after all.

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

“So where are we going?”

That was the first thing Nami asked Zoro when they met each other on the deck the next morning after breakfast.

“Didn’t Robin tell you?” The swordsman frowned at her.

“Robin?”

“Yeah. Robin’s coming with us.”

“Oh.” Nami blinked. Robin’s coming with them? The archaeologist didn’t mention anything about that last night before they went to bed.

Yet she nodded to show her agreement and understanding… even if she doesn’t really get it.

“Don’t worry, you’ll like it,” Zoro assured her, when he saw her doubtful expression. “Just don’t wear any of those pointy shoes you fancy.”

Nami stared hard at him. She shouldn’t wear pointy shoes? Does he mean high heels?

Why? Where are they going?

“Ara… are you two ready?” Robin’s soft voice put a stop to their conversation. The raven-haired beauty was walking towards them, dressed in her hiking gear.

Nami looked at Zoro inquisitively who just nodded at her. “We’ll go once Nami’s ready.” Then he walked away from her and headed towards the boy’s quarters… probably to change as well.

“Not a problem,” Robin smiled at him then at Nami.

“Oi!!! Luffy suddenly shouted as he bounded across the lawn, full of energy, with his adventure backpack already on his back. “Let’s get going! Sanji! Where’s our bento?!”

“Damn it aho sencho!” The blond cook shouted from the galley. “Can you just wait?!”

“Are you still not ready Nami?” Usopp walked past her, eyeing her up and down as he adjusted the straps of his own backpack.

“Ok wait.” Nami held up a hand in a stopping motion. Everyone is in their hiking-slash-explorer apparels. “What is happening? Are we all going?”

“Of course!” Luffy said, pumping both arms up in the air. “It’s an adventure!”

“Definitely!” Usopp frowned at her, offended that she sound disappointed that they will be joining them.

Nami mirrored his expression. “But…”

Usopp raised an eyebrow at her. “What? Wait don’t tell me you think this is gonna be just you and Zoro?”

“No!” Nami growled under her breath, inwardly horrified that Usopp somehow sensed that. “Where did that even come from?!”

How in the world did they all know about today? She was pretty sure she was the only one Zoro asked last night.

The grin that appeared on Usopp’s face was evil. “Oh. You do think it’s just gonna be the two of you?”

“WHAT?!”

“Oooh… I did hear him tell you.” the sharpshooter cooed as her face turned red. “But Robin also told us last night that we’ll all be heading somewhere today.”

Nami’s frown deepened at that. So… they weren’t actually going to be alone today. She honestly thought that was the case.

Because as far as she knows… she was the only one he asked.

Well… it wasn’t though.

Nami shoulders slumped dejectedly. This is Zoro they’re talking about. There is a much better chance of trying to shoot at the moon and hitting it. “I’ll just go and get changed so we can head out to wherever we are going.” She mumbled glumly.

So much for one of her birthday wishes coming true.

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

“Where are we heading?” Nami muttered under her breath as she trudged along the dense jungle trail, shoving away the enormous plant leaves that were blocking their path.

She had been rather excited about today last night. Right after Zoro told her they were going somewhere.

They. Them and their crew.

She pouted as felt annoyance stirring up inside her. She felt rather cheated. Not to mention, they had been hiking for about an hour now and she was getting tired. Robin has kept mum about where they were going. The same goes for Zoro, who was already a closemouthed person to begin with.

Between Luffy’s constant hollering, Usopp complaining, Chopper getting excited with all the plant life growing along the trail, Zoro and Sanji’s bickering every ten minutes and this excursion turning out to be one big of a disappointing trip… she was about to reach her breaking point.

“Are you ok Nami?”

Robin had stopped walking to wait for her, with a gentle smile gracing her lips. But Nami can see how brightly her usually cool blue eyes were shining from excitement.

Wherever they are heading… Robin’s eager to get to it as fast as possible.

But she still doesn’t get it why Zoro asked her last night. Robin could’ve just told her that she was planning on a hiking trip to the jungle… just right after her birthday.

“Where are we going Robin?” Nami can’t stop herself from asking. She watched as the boys continued moving forward, noisy as ever. She wouldn’t be surprised if they provoked whatever animals are lurking in this place because of racket they are making.

Good thing Franky and Brook decided to stay behind… or it’ll be much noisier.

“Are you alright?” Robin inquired again. “Just a few more kilometers and we’ll be there.”

“Where and what is there?”

“Something that you like.”

Nami looked startled at that. Then she narrowed her eyes at her friend. “You know Zoro said the same thing.”

Robin chuckled.

“Robin come on! Spill! Tell me something!” Nami whined.

The older woman just smiled at her. “Let’s go before the boys take a wrong turn or lose Zoro.”

“Just let him get lost. We have Chopper. We’ll find him later.” Nami huffed as she followed Robin who had resumed trekking.

“That would be a shame.”

“Why?!”

Robin glanced behind her mischievously. “Wherever we are going… Zoro has something for you there.”

That made Nami stop in her tracks.

Zoro has something for her?

Robin chuckled again as she watched Nami’s eyes widened.

“Let’s get going shall we Nami?”

This time the navigator followed her almost immediately in stunned silence.

Is that why Zoro told her they were going somewhere today? Because he actually has something for her?

Her birthday present?

Nami fought the smile that was threatening to appear on her lips. Robin’s sharp eyes might notice that she is excited about this.

A few more minutes of marching along the trail and Nami can’t help but ask.

“What does he have for me anyway? And why is it inside this jungle?” Nami muttered darkly. She was excited at the thought of getting a gift from the ever-stoic swordsman but seriously, this non-stop hiking is slowly dampening her enthusiasm.

Robin glanced back at her amusedly. “It’s a actually surprise. You don’t like surprises?”

“From Zoro?” Nami blinked at that. “That thought is already a surprise in itself. Seriously, I don’t think he’s capable of doing anything like this.” She glared at the idiot mosshead who were walking a few feet ahead of them. “Besides what kind of surprise is this that you have to exert so much effort to get it?”

The archaeologist giggled at her impatience. “Well to be honest, with a right push he is capable of anything. Give our swordsman some credit. Besides… as I have said you will like it.”

Nami buried to her side. “You’re behind this?”

“Hmm… yes and no.”

“Robin! Stop teasing me!”

Robin turned to her and smiled that certain mysterious smile of hers.

“Let’s just say, Zoro stumbled upon something in this place.”

“You mean he got lost again and accidentally found something here right?”

“Fufufu… yes.”

Nami pondered at the information she had been given. What is in this place that she likes?

Based on all the green foliage around her… there is nothing here that piques her interest.

So what the hell?

She glanced at Robin who had an almost serene expression on her face. Yet she was moving a bit faster than before. The boys had already disappeared from their sight. A few seconds passed and there were a lot of shouting and yelling ahead of them.

Robin motioned for her to pick up her pace. Ahead of them, multiple hands bloomed to part the gigantic leaves and branches that were blocking their path so they can easily make their way through it.

“Zoro accidentally found this place,” Robin explained. “And I stumbled across him here while I was out exploring yesterday.”

They reached the end of the trail. And Nami stared in awe at the scene before her.

A few feet ahead of them were ancient stone ruins of what could be a palace or a temple.

“Isn’t it beautiful?” Robin murmured as she made her way towards the place.

The boys have now wandered off to explore the place. Nami can hear their excited voices echoing along the vast abandoned site.

But this is something that Robin likes… not her. She couldn’t understand what’s in it that both Zoro and Robin think she’ll like.

Robin approached Zoro who was standing before a rather large boulder that was blocking the entrance towards what Nami could make out as a stone chamber.

She slowly followed her and watched as Zoro drew out one of his katanas and effortlessly sliced the boulder into pieces. He kicked off some of the rubbles, clearing the area as Robin beckoned for Nami to come closer.

Nami could make out a hole on the ground. Her questioning gaze met Robin’s and the older woman just smiled at her.

“Happy birthday again Nami.” And with that she left Zoro and her alone as she headed towards the now accessible chamber to explore what was inside.

Zoro was dusting his hands on his pants. “Let’s go.” He said.

“Go where?”

He pointed to the rather large hole on the ground.

Nami stared at him with wide eyes. It was then that she realized that the boulder earlier was meant to cover the hole rather than block the chamber’s entrance.

“Nuh-uh.” She stubbornly folded her arms across her chest. “I don’t like gaping dark holes that looks like it’s gonna swallow you and make you disappear to oblivion.”

Zoro chuckled at her reaction. “Don’t be such a chicken Nami. You’ll like what’s down there.”

“Why is your gift for me down there?”

He frowned. “Robin told you?”

“Yeah.”

He scratched the back of his head.

“It better be not the entrance to hell Zoro!”

“If it is then I would be dragging you to it! Not asking you to jump down with me!”

“Do you need any help?” Robin’s voice suddenly spoke out of nowhere, interrupting their brewing verbal battle. A hand had bloomed out from one of the stone columns surrounding them, unsurprisingly with a mouth on it.

“Nah I got this.” Zoro replied, scooping Nami into his arms suddenly.

“Zoro!!!”

With a shark-like grin, he leapt down the hole.

Nami screamed bloody murder at his ear, her arms clinging around his neck as hard as she could to the point of almost choking him.

They hit the ground not shortly after. And Nami’s screamed was suddenly brought to a halt. She realized it wasn’t the hole wasn’t as deep as she initially thought it was.

But it was still dark… and scary. And her heart was still racing and thudding against her chest.

If this is Zoro’s gift for her… she would maim him with his own swords once they get back to the Sunny.

Zoro set her down to her feet. But Nami did not remove her arms around his neck and clung tighter even as she glared at him in the dark.

She can hear him chuckling at her expense; feel him reaching down his pocket to pull something out.

There was a flicking sound and light suddenly filled the room. Zoro was grinning down at her, holding a lighter that he probably snagged from Sanji-kun’s collection.

“Happy Birthday Nami.”

And as the light slowly lit the room and bounced against some reflective surfaces, so did Nami’s eyes as it widened with the realization of what was really Zoro’s birthday present for her.

He had stumbled upon a chamber in the ruins filled with treasure.

And it was all for her.

Zoro just made some of her birthday wishes come true.

[ilovefandoms102]

Part 5- Shape of My Heart

Pairing: Rudy Pankow x Plus Size Reader

Summary: Falling in love with someone you can never have is the worst feeling in the world...

Taglist:

@jeyramarie​​ @drewswannabegirl​​ @teamnick​​ @jiaraendgame​​ @agirlwholovescoffee​​ @outerbongs​​ @jaxxandcomet​​ @velyssaraptor​​ @baby-pogue​​ @they-write-once-in-a-blue-moon​​ @must-be-a-weasley-92​​ @kaitieskidmore1​​ @ma10427​​ @ifilwtmfc​​ @lasnaro​​ @justcallmesams​​ @judayyyw​​ @lonely-kermit​​ @gviosca​​ @iamaunicorn4704​​ @jellyfishbeansontoast​​ @fernweh-fangirl​​ @runway-to-my-aid​​ @eb15​​ @hurricane-abigail​​ @tangledinsparkles​​ @fandom-phaser​​ @sunwardsss​​ @http-cherries​​ @bibliophilewednesday​​ @evaporatedrosepetals​​ @thetomatosaucee​​ @tomatosauceagent​​ @redosmo​​ @ilikealotofpeople-younotsomuch​​

Part 4 Part 6

Note: School is starting for me which means I more than likely won’t get to update as often, but I am still going to try! I hope you guys enjoy and let me know what you think!

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Rudy was wrapped around me like a koala bear, soft snores falling from his lips. The sun was shining through the curtains, a perfect day to go swimming. Luckily since I had met them all at the beach, they had already seen me in a bathing suit. I tried to extract myself from my current position, but Rudy’s hold tightened on me the more I moved. I huffed, debating on just waking him up. I tried one more time, a groan sounding from the man next to me. 

“Stop moving,” he whined, his deep morning voice sending chills all over me. 

“It’s prime tanning time Ru, let me up.” I chuckled.

“I’m comfy,” he mumbled, cuddling further into me. 

“We have plenty of days to be lazy, come on.” I encouraged, patting his shoulder.

He huffed dramatically, flipping off of me. I jumped up, filing through my stuff to get my bikini. I jumped when I turned around, not expecting Rudy to be right behind me. He stared into my eyes, making me a bit nervous. He pulled me into a hug, laying his head on my shoulder.

“I’m tired.” he grumbled, his lips brushing my skin.

“You don’t have to come with me if you want to sleep.” I offered, rubbing his naked back. 

“I don’t want to be by myself.” he complained, moving to kiss where his lips hit my skin. 

I froze in place, not sure what to do now. I was confused, scared, and now horny. I shuffled lightly in his hold, trying to act like what he did wasn’t affecting me in a major way. He sighed, pulling away. I smiled as I trekked to the bathroom, millions of thoughts racing in my head.

====================================

Maddie C and Chase were already out in the pool when Rudy and I came down, Chase begging Maddie to get in with him. I threw my towel down on the chair, busting out some tanning oil spray. With the help of Maddie, I doused myself to hopefully bring some color to my pale features. Back home the weather couldn’t seem to make up its mind, sometimes being really hot one day then freezing the next. I sat down on the chair, my legs on either side as I scrolled through my phone for a minute. Rudy sat on the open space, looking at me expectantly.

“What?” I laughed.

“You did not drag me from my peaceful slumber to just sit here, get in the pool.” he commanded, pointing at where Chase was standing. 

“I want to lay out for a little bit,” I scoffed, moving my legs to his lap since he wouldn’t move. 

“Baby, get in the pool now!” he exclaimed, a grin coming to his face.

“Oh my god if you’ll shut up!” I huffed, glaring at him as he cheered. 

I dipped my toe in the water, surprised that the water was actually warm. I felt Rudy’s presence behind me again, his hands gripping my hips.

“Don’t you dare!” I hissed, whipping around to grab his wrists.

“What? I’m not doing anything.” he innocently tilted his head.

“I’m getting in, don’t fucking push me.” I giggled.

“You mean, like this?” he questioned, taking a head start to push both of us in the pool. 

I resurfaced, pushing my wet hair back. Rudy came up a second later, wisely he swam a little ways towards the deeper end of the pool. I turned around, deciding to give him the silent treatment. Chase and Maddie were cackling at us, Maddie gripping her stomach from how hard she was laughing. I swam to the shallow side, purposefully not looking at Rudy.

“You’re in trouble now Ru,” Chase grinned, quirking a brow.

“I’m hungry, you guys ok with me running to McDonald’s?” she asked, earning a nod from me.

Chase and her headed out, leaving just Rudy and I. I heard him swim closer to me, I made sure to keep myself from looking at him. He stood in front of me, my eyes casting down into the pool. I pouted, hoping he would feel bad.

“Are you really not talking to me?” he asked, silence from my end.

“Y/n...babe, talk to me. I’m sorry.” he whined, flopping himself in my arms. 

I didn’t move though, trying my hardest to not smile. He wrapped himself around me like a child, not letting go of me even when I tried to pry his arms away. He buried his head in my neck, crying dramatically. 

“Baby I’m sorry, please talk to me!” he cried, I couldn’t contain my smile anymore. 

I busted out laughing, throwing my head back. He pulled his head back to grin at me, his eyes shining in the sun. I caught his gaze, the both of us going silent. Rudy stood to his full height, caging me in by putting his arms on either side of me. My breath hitched in my throat, having to lean my head back since he towered over me. He leaned closer, forehead coming to rest on mine. Our lips just brushed together when a voice sounded out.

“Hope we aren’t interrupting!” Maddie B yelled, her girlfriend Mo and JD trekking behind her.

“I was wondering when I would see your face JD,” I chuckled, swimming closer to the edge where they were. 

“We missed you at dinner last night man.” Rudy spoke, bro hugging JD.

“Glad you could make it college girl!” JD smiled.

“Hey girlie long time no see!” Mo greeted, leaning down to hug me.

“So glad to see you Momo,” I grinned.

JD and Rudy ended up getting in a major splash war, which gave me enough time to escape the water so I could lay out for at least a few minutes. I chatted with the girls, Maddie C and Chase coming back finally. Maddie C passed out our food, Chase joining Rudy and JD. 

“So y/n, what was that we walked in on?” Maddie B asked, Mo wriggling her brows.

“Nothing,” I murmured.

“Wait, what?” Maddie C inquired.

“That was not nothing and you know it.” Mo inputed.

“Ok...we might have almost kissed, but I think it was just an in the moment kind of thing.” I shrugged.

“Y/n, stop being so delusional.” Maddie C ordered, as if it could just be that easy.

“You guys just don’t get it.” I murmured, my mood taking a huge downfall.

“Then help us understand,” Maddie B said, placing her hand on my arm comfortingly. 

“I was bullied...for my entire life because I’m not thin. Never had a boyfriend, never even kissed a guy, and I’m just scared. I’m scared it’s too good to be true, and Elaine seems to have something for Rudy anyways...I don’t want to get in the middle of that.” I rambled.

“I’m so sorry you had to go through that. You know you’re one of our best friends, every single person here loves you. You are beautiful y/n, if anything you’re way out of Rudy’s league.” Maddie B informed, Maddie C and Mo agreeing. 

“Our lives wouldn’t be the same without you y/n, I think you have a killer bod babe. I’m sure Rudy thinks the same or he wouldn’t stare at you all the time.” Maddie C giggled.

“Thank you guys, I just don’t want to read too much into things...I don’t want to get my hopes up. My heart’s been broke too many times I don’t think I could handle it, especially with Rudy. I couldn’t bear to lose him...” I sighed, looking at the boys who were wrestling each other. 

“Are you ladies just going to sit there all day?” JD shouted, splashing water at us.

“We’re talking shit about you all.” I laughed.

“That’s not surprising, that’s all you girls do.” Chase scoffed, running his hand through his wet hair.

“After I took care of you last night...that’s a low blow babe.” Rudy sighed, shaking his head. JD quirked a brow at his friend, looking to Chase. The man shook his head, I guess signalling he didn’t know what was going on. 

“That’s what you get for taking up the whole bed.” I smirked, a mock offended expression on Rudy’s face.

“I’ll remember this,” he nodded.

“Oh come on guys, we don’t want to hear about you all doing the nasty.” Maddie C groaned, both Rudy and I’s cheeks turning a bright red.

“It wasn’t like that.” I griped, shoving her slightly.

Chase used the moment we were distracted to snatch Maddie C up and throw her in the pool, a scream escaping her as she hit the water. I cracked up as I watched them play fight in the water. I started to get hot, the LA sun taking its toll. I sat on the edge, my legs dangling in the pool. Rudy swam closer to me, standing between my legs. 

“Get in with me,” he pleaded, tugging on my arms.

“I will, just give me minute to get used to the water Ru.” I giggled.

We swam for hours, my chest hurting from how much I had laughed. It distracted me from my internal thoughts about what happened earlier with Rudy almost kissing me. I wondered if he really did like me, or if this was some kind of game. I didn’t think Rudy was the type for games so I scratched that off my mental list, but I just couldn’t fathom how he could possibly have feelings for me. 

==================================

All of us somehow ended up in my room, scrolling on the TV to find a movie. We had just about everything from Chase’s pantry on the bed, drinks sitting on the end tables. JD wanted to watch a scary movie, the girls protesting against it. Call me weird, but I loved scary movies. The thrill always excited me, so his choice didn’t phase me at all.

“Y/n, you’re our guest.” Chase said, everyone looking to me.

“I love scary, but if no one else wants to watch it I’m cool with whatever.” I shrugged. 

The guys cheered, JD choosing Insidious, one of my all time favorites. Rudy cuddled me close to him, his eyes intently focusing on the screen. I had seen the movie millions of times, so the jump scares didn’t get to me anymore. I cackled when one of the girls would scream, or the guys would shout. Rudy hid his face in my neck at some parts, his hold on me tightening. Once the ending credits rolled, we put on a Disney movie to calm everyone’s nerves. My eyes began to droop, my head falling on Rudy’s chest. He played with my hair, his soft movements lulling me to sleep.

“You ever gonna grow some balls bro?” Chases asked.

“I don’t even know if she likes me back man,” Rudy sighed.

“You all are so perfect for each other, better shoot your shot before it’s too late.” Maddie C spoke. 

“Yeah I guess you’re right, I’ve made it so blatantly obvious, but she doesn’t seem to respond.” he rambled.

“Talk to her about it, not gonna hurt anything to have that communication.” Maddie B said.

“I think I might just do that, I can’t wait any longer for her to catch the hint.” he sighed.

[let-the-dream-begin]

Hogmanay Hauntings Chapter 2 -- Present: Sorcha

Chapter 1

Read on AO3

Jamie thought he might truly be dead, almost wished it. If he were dead, and this was the sight that were to greet him, he would welcome it, embrace it fully, as he’d tried to do on the day of that bloody battle. If on the other side of eternity was that sweet little face of his bairn, and her…

“Hello, Jamie.”

Something guttural tore through him at the sound of her voice. The effect it had on his body was the same as taking a breath after several minutes of being submerged in water: life-giving, but burning, overwhelming.

His mouth flapped uselessly, the neverending stream of tears funneling in. He remained on his knees as she stood there, as if in worship of her. She was dressed exactly the way she’d been on the battlefield, when she’d appeared to him in that nightgown, that shawl. As she was the night she’d said she loved him.

And then it all stopped, froze.

If he was dead, then thank God for that. But if he wasn’t…

“Ye…” he stammered, struck with horror. “Ye’re dead…?”

“No, Jamie.” She shook her head vehemently.

“But Faith...she came to me...a spirit…” His entire body trembled. “I canna bear it...if ye didna live...I...I canna…”

“I did. I did, Jamie.” Her voice remained calm and level, soft and sure. “I am going to live a long, wonderful life.”

He closed his eyes then, letting the wave of relief that she sent his way crash into him and fill him. He opened his eyes quickly in a panic, terrified that she’d vanish.

“Time doesn’t work the way you’d think,” she explained, seeing the expression on his face asking the question that he could not find the air to voice: Then how?

“I’m alive now, just as you are, in a way that our baby never was.” In her living, mortal life, Claire could not speak of Faith without her voice breaking. But this Claire...she seemed to possess a sense of calm acceptance, of all-knowing.

“And I’m here to show you.”

Jamie blinked dumbly, taking a stuttering breath. “Sh...show me…?”

“Show you the present. Mine, and yours.”

His head was spinning.

“Yours…? Ye’ll...ye’ll show me your time, then…? How…? How is that ye’re here, yet ye live…?”

His temples were throbbing.

“Can ye promise me ye’ll keep yer heart open?”

Claire did not speak, just bore those amber eyes into him, as if she was the one reminding him of the promise he’d made to their daughter.

Yes, he’d made a promise, a promise that he intended to keep.

Then he swallowed, hard.

“If you live, and ye mean to show me yer...present.” Another tear trickled down his cheek. “Then...then our child...lives…? In your present?”

Her glow seemed to amplify, to brighten the room. She nodded silently.

“Oh, Christ…” It was barely above a whisper. “Take me there, mo ghraidh. Take me to our living child.”

Her face changed imperceptibly, and she straightened up. Her eyes grew in depth, looking at him in a way that made his bones chill. “Yes. I will.”

She reached around her neck, taking hold of something that he couldn’t see beneath her shawl and nightgown. She pulled it over her head, allowing her curls to dance as the object rustled past them. Then she was holding it out to him, and it swayed in the space between them, back and forth before his eyes.

The pearls.

“Grab hold of these,” she instructed. “And I will take you to our living child.”

He exhaled reverently, lifting a trembling hand. “Thank you, Sorcha...thank you…”

And then his fingers closed around the pearls, and the room melted away as it had with Faith. Jamie prepared himself, even as his gut roiled with the journey they took, to see the wonders of this future, Claire’s present. He prepared himself to see another child with red hair, or perhaps her shimmering brown. He prepared himself to see the electricity she’d spoken of to him, to see…the man he’d sent her back to.

But the images that formed around them were familiar, too familiar.

They were in Lallybroch again, decorated and jolly as it had been when Faith had shown him. He turned in a circle, taking in the sights, counted all five of Jenny’s bairns, and knew that this was indeed the present and not the past.

“I dinna understand…” Jamie whirled around to look at Claire.

“I said I’d take you to our living child,” she said evenly, too evenly. “He’s right there.”

She pointed her finger somewhere behind Jamie, and he turned. His brows were knitted together, his heart hammering with uncertainty. What could it mean, if their child was here?

Then it hit him, like a blow to the face.

Fergus was sitting in the corner, alone, cupping something in his hands that his head was bowed over. Jamie’s sight of the lad flashed in and out as dancing couples and shrieking children whirred past in front of him.

“I said I would show you my present as well as yours,” Claire said. “Your child, the one you can actually care for, is right there.”

Jamie felt an ice cold hand gripping his heart. Guilt.

“Claire, I…”

“When I left you, I thought you’d die,” she went on. “And leaving you tore me in two as much as it did knowing that I was leaving that boy orphaned. It eats me alive almost every night, thinking of him, abandoned. But you’re here, Jamie.”

Jamie took a hesitant step toward the lad, couples whooshing right through his non-corporeal form.

“You left me with one child,” she said, following him. “And I left you with another.”

The hand on his heart squeezed tighter, and Jamie wanted to wither away into nothing. He’d never seen it that way, not once. Claire thought he was dead, he should be dead. He was, in a way. He was no good to this lad.

“Why’s he no’ dancing, no’ eating…?” Jamie said, inching closer and closer. “The lad’s stomach has no bottom, and I ken he drinks the whisky though Jenny tells him no’ to. He should be having the time of his life.”

He took one final step, standing right above him now, and saw what Fergus was cradling in his hands.

Sawny.

Jamie swallowed thickly against the rush of tears.

“He wishes you were there, Jamie.”

Jamie shook his head. “Why should he…? I...I was cruel to him. He’s better off wi’ Jenny and Ian. They’ve a loving home, enough room in their hearts fer him. I’m…”

“His father,” Claire finished pointedly. “You’re his father, Jamie. I know it, you know it, and he knows it.”

“But I...wi’out you…”

“Yes. You are without me,” she said. “And so is he.”

Before Jamie could will his dry mouth to form a coherent sentence, the fiddler ceased, and the crowd applauded. Jenny appeared from behind them, approaching Fergus.

“I’ve barely seen ye eat a thing all night,” she said, half teasing. “What happened to that bottomless fool? Go and eat yer fill.”

“I am not hungry.” He didn’t look up from his hands.

“That’s no’ like you,” Jenny said, crossing her arms. “It’s also no’ like you to let those lasses dance wi’ the other lads.” She jutted her chin over her shoulder at the swaths of young girls holding hands with other lads around Fergus’s age. “Last year ye had at least three of them on yer heel at any given time.”

Fergus said nothing. Jenny’s cheerful mask faltered, and it tugged on Jamie’s heart. She sighed, giving up on taunting the lad with fun and food. She uncrossed her arms and knelt before him, covering his hands with her own.

“Ye ken ye can talk to me, Fergus,” she said softly. Jamie never ceased to be impressed by his sister’s warmth, by her ability to strike the fear of God in her bairns, and yet mother them with such beautiful softness.

Jamie could tell Fergus tried to squirm away, to avoid this, but that he was powerless to stop the silent tears that trickled down his cheeks.

“Fergus…”

“I miss her,” he said suddenly, his voice croaking.

“Aye,” Jenny said sadly. “I do, too.”

“And I...I hate him.”

Jenny’s face momentarily blanched with pain, but she swallowed and hardened her resolve again. “Who?”

“I hate Milord. I hate him,” he spat through clenched teeth. He still did not look up from their joined hands. “I thought he was different. But he is a liar.”

“Different than what, lad?”

“Than...than all the others who abandoned me since I was born.” His voice finally broke, a heartbreaking little sob escaping his lips. Jamie was suddenly painfully aware how young Fergus still was; he was not the grown man that he’d have everyone believe he was. Jamie felt his heart cleave in two, acutely aware that he was causing those tears.

Jenny’s throat bobbed, her eyes glistening. “Oh, lad...ye ken that he…”

“I thought he was different.” It was almost a growl. Fergus finally picked his head up to look Jenny in the eye, his eyes red. “He is not.”

He stood then, wrenching his hands from Jenny’s grip and tossing the wooden snake aside, sending it clattering across the floor. Jenny called after him in vain, and Fergus stormed up the stairs and out of sight. Defeated, Jenny sighed and reached for the discarded toy. She pressed it to her heart and closed her eyes briefly before getting up to tend to her guests again, cheery mask back in place.

Jamie turned to look at Claire, but she was staring at the stairs after Fergus, and he wanted nothing more than to take her in his arms and comfort her. But even if he could touch her, he knew he was not worthy of giving her this comfort when he was the reason she needed it.

“Do you see?” Claire said, her voice filled with such sorrow that it almost drowned Jamie’s hollow heart. “You told him you loved him like a son, then abandoned him. You gave him that joy of finding a family, and then took it away. Jenny and Ian’s love can’t replace that hope you gave him of having something of his own. And since you sent me away, the least you can do is uphold that promise you made him.”

Jamie hadn’t realized...hadn’t realized that in saying that he’d been making the lad a promise. How could he have been so unknowingly cruel…?

And God, Claire’s voice was so full of shame. She was so ashamed of him, ashamed of how he treated their son. She lie in agony every night wondering about his fate, fate that he held in his hands. And he was failing her, failing him.

“I…” His voice was dry and cracked. “I dinna ken how...how do I…” He ran his hands over his face. “I’m such a miserable wretch wi’out ye...I canna...find the strength…”

“Do you think you’re the only miserable wretch, Jamie?”

Her voice was not cold, and perhaps that was why Jamie shivered. She held out the pearls to him again, waiting.

“There’s something else you need to see.”

My present as well as yours.

His heart skipped a beat, his stomach flipped. Without a moment’s hesitation, he reached out to grasp the pearls, and the melted wax reappeared all around him. He looked deeply into Claire’s eyes, and he could swear that she was brimming with nervousness. Even despite her shame at his treatment of Fergus, she was unable to suppress the emotion of bringing him into this life, bringing him to the baby he’d sent away with her.

The world reformed itself around them, and Jamie immediately knew they were truly in a different place. It was daylight where she’d taken him, yet evidence of that electricity was present on an evergreen in the corner of the room they stood in. A parlor by the looks of it. The tree glowed beautifully, and Jamie could not stop staring at it. There were baubles on the branches that bounced the light around, and a glowing star on the top. It was unlike anything he’d ever seen, yet still familiar. There was garland and holly on the fireplace, around the trim, the likes of which even Jenny would be proud of. He noticed, too, odd-looking, oversized red stockings hanging over the fireplace. And then he remembered:

“Be Yuletide by the time we get back to Leoch.”

“Christmas...I don't suppose you hang stockings by the fire.”

“To dry them off, ye mean?”

A small smile, pinkening the tips of her ears and nose. “Never mind.”

This was the image in her mind that night, a picture of domestic bliss. Jamie choked on the memory, blinking away tears. 

“Come on, Mama!”

Jamie’s heart stopped.

“It’s Christmas morning,” Claire explained softly. “That’s when we open gifts in this time.”

She gestured to the small pile of boxes under the evergreen, red and green, shiny and tied off with bows.

“I saw! I saw all the presents Santa brought!”

The little voice filled Jamie’s ears again, and he could have collapsed to his knees.

“Oh, you did?”

A breathy laugh escaped Jamie’s lips.

“Did you count them?”

“There were a hundred!”

The far-away Claire laughed softly. “Are you sure about that?”

“Uh-huh! Come on!”

And then there they were.

He saw the fiery mop of curls first; his eyes went straight to it. The bairn was wearing loose fitting trousers and a button shirt, red and green, matching the boxes under the evergreen. He raked his eyes over the hand that the child clasped and up the length of the delicate arm, eventually landing on Claire’s face.

Jamie bit back a sob.

She’s so sad.

Yes, she was smiling, the corners of her eyes crinkled, but there was something lingering beneath that broke his heart.

And the bairn had no idea.

Claire was wearing a set of trousers and a button shirt that matched what the bairn was wearing, and he realized at once that his assumption that the child was a lad could very well have been incorrect if Claire was wearing trousers as well. Anything was possible in this time, he supposed.

“Christ…” Jamie couldn’t breathe, his chest was tight. Yet, the first thing that came out of his mouth was: “What’ve ye done to yer hair…?”

Spirit-Claire chuckled, running a hand through her long curls. “That’s the style of the time,” she explained, gesturing to her other self’s cropped, loosely styled curls. “Usually it’s neater than that; you’d probably hate it even more.”

Jamie made a Scottish noise in the back of his throat, but moved closer to the pair of them. The child was kneeling before the evergreen now, and Claire sat cross-legged nearby.

“Here, let’s count them,” Claire said. The bairn seemed not to hear, picking up another box and shaking it next to a little ear. “Come on, I know you’ve been working very hard on counting in school, haven’t you?”

“Where’s Daddy? I wanna open them!”

Claire momentarily seemed like she’d received a needle prick between her eyes, blinking and flinching almost imperceptibly. But then it was gone, replaced again by that sweet, motherly smile. “You have no patience at all.”

“Nope!”

Before the child could scramble away, Claire seized her or him around the middle and brought the little body into her lap.

“School…?” Jamie breathed. “Old enough for that already?”

“They start their first year at four years old here,” Spirit-Claire explained. “It’s called kindergarten.”

Jamie repeated the foreign word. “Sounds German.”

“It is.”

Claire was relentlessly tickling the squirming bairn in her lap, eliciting high-pitched squeals and pealing laughter.

“Our child is bright, already counting all the way to twenty,” Spirit-Claire said. “Even though they only go up to ten in school.”

Jamie laughed inaudibly, his chest swelling with pride. He noticed then that Claire was being deliberately careful about how she addressed the child. “Ye dinna plan to tell me if it’s a lass or a lad then? Or a name?”

Claire shook her head. “I can’t.”

Tears of anger burned his eyes, his throat. “I’m never to know, then.”

It wasn’t a question, but a savage growl of acceptance.

Claire smiled, a soft, tiny smile. “Not never.”

Before Jamie could demand that she elaborate on that:

“Daddy!”

“Here I am!”

Jamie really almost fainted.

Claire had been right about the resemblance.

The bairn darted over to the twin of the man that still tormented Jamie’s mind, and he bent down and scooped up the little body like it was nothing. Resemblance there might be, but there was none of that brooding darkness, none of the twisted sadism in his eyes as he held the child — his child, Jamie supposed — on his hip and kissed the curly red head.

“Merry Christmas, Daddy!”

“Merry Christmas, sweetheart,” the man crooned softly. It sent a chill down Jamie’s spine, despite the warmth, genuine warmth he heard in his voice.

“He’s good to us,” Spirit-Claire interrupted before he could fully spiral. “I promise, Jamie. He’s nothing like him. He’s a good father.”

He watched the man, Frank, plop a ridiculous red hat trimmed with white wool, a white puff dangling from the end, atop his child’s head, laughing as it fell over the tiny brow, and he knew in his heart that Claire spoke true.

“You left your hat in your room,” Frank said, carrying the child back to the evergreen. “Can’t have that, can we?” “No way!” the child said as Frank put him or her down. The wee thing pushed the too-big hat so that it was no longer blocking any vision, and a wee bottom plopped back down onto the floor in front of the shiny boxes.

“Merry Christmas, darling,” Frank said softly, leaning down to grant a peck of a kiss to Claire’s lips.

“Merry Christmas,” Claire answered, allowing the kiss, returning it.

Jamie momentarily saw red, and he had to blink several times to keep his rage at bay.

He could feel Claire’s tension beside him, feel her glowing presence become brighter and hotter. She didn’t say anything, neither did Jamie. He had no right to, having sent her to him himself. This is what he had wanted.

But neither could he deny that something was missing in that small peck.

And she was so sad.

Frank sat down on one of the couches and Claire remained on the floor, seemingly as far away from him as she could get.

“Can I open now?” the child demanded, looking back and forth between the adults.

“Go on, lovie,” Claire crooned.

Without a moment’s hesitation, little hands dove under the evergreen for a red box. “I wanna open one from Daddy first!”

Jamie saw red again as Frank chuckled softly. It was wrong, the rage he felt at this man’s joy and comfort. There was something remarkable about him choosing to raise this child as his own, something comforting about him taking such joy in doing so. He really loved Claire and Jamie’s child; it didn’t seem like an obligation.

But it boiled Jamie’s blood nonetheless, knowing that it should have, could have been him.

The Claire sitting on the floor watched her child tear the paper off the box, a vague, placid smile on her face. Jamie could not see what lay beneath the paper, but the wean gasped dramatically, flinging aside more paper and bits of what appeared to be a box and fished out from the pile two figurines of horses.

Frank was beaming with glee. “Do you like them?”

“I love them!” The wean held them up higher, illuminating them by the strange lights on the evergreen. Jamie’s breath caught in his throat.

It was a pair, a large black horse and a smaller white one.

Our horses.

Spirit-Claire said nothing as she and Jamie watched what happened next. The Clarie by the evergreen abruptly stood up.

“Claire?” Frank called after her as she bolted from the room.

“I’m going to make some coffee,” she blurted. “And hot chocolate.”

The child broke into an even wider grin, clapping his or her hands in excitement.

“Don’t wait for me.”

“Claire, what  — ”

“I won’t open any that say ‘Mama’ without you!”

Claire didn’t answer. The child didn’t skip a beat, setting the horses aside and moving onto one that said “from Santa,” whatever that meant. Frank ran a hand down his face, unnoticed, buried by the sound of paper tearing.

Jamie didn’t hesitate before following Claire out of the room, trailed close behind by Spirit-Claire. They were led by Present-Claire into a room the likes of which Jamie had never seen. The floor was hard and cold, and so were bits of the wall. There was a great metal box topped with coils, bits of metal that vaguely resembled a water pump, a great white box.

Before Jamie could ask spirit-Claire what the devil he was looking at, the Claire they’d been following collapsed to the floor in the middle of the room, hugging herself around the middle. All else fell away but the need to comfort her, to hold her. Jamie fell to his knees before her, reaching for her, and, of course, finding nothing but thin air beneath his fingers.

“Mo nighean donn…” he whispered brokenly, watching as she shook with silent sobs, sputtering into a hand clamped over her mouth to keep herself quiet. “Claire...I’m here...It’s alright…”

Spirit-Claire didn’t need to tell him; he knew that she couldn’t hear him, that he wasn’t really there.

He muttered in Gaelic, his heart splintering, his hands burning with the need to shelter her from this pain. He was also overcome with rage; Frank sat in the next room, content to let Claire fall apart like this alone, without a comfort in the world. If Jamie were there, were this his house, his family, he’d drop everything to follow her, to coax out of her what troubled her, to apologize for unknowingly upsetting her…

Of course the man couldn’t have known. But Claire’s reaction was clear as day.

Yet here she was, alone.

“My poor lass…” Jamie muttered, silent tears trickling down his cheeks. “I’m sorry...I’m so sorry...I wish I could…”

Then she wiped her face with both hands, taking deep heaving breaths before pushing herself off the floor. She wavered for a moment, and Jamie instinctively reached out to steady her before logic could remind him that he couldn’t. She got her bearings and then made her way to the white box, opening a door and retrieving a bottle filled with what could only be milk. She continued crying quietly, sniffling and shuddering as she poured milk into a small pot atop the coils on the metal box. A fire lit beneath the pot, and through his awe, Jamie realized.

She was using that contraption to make the bairn’s hot chocolate, even as she wept through waves of pain.

She put a different sort of pot on a second coil, likely for the coffee. After the fire was lit beneath the coffee pot, Claire backed away, leaning on one of the counters, breathing heavily.

“Buck up, Beauchamp.”

Those three words, uttered through her teeth, a command, a demand of herself...that was what had Jamie fully weeping.

She’s so, so sad.

Several moments passed of Claire leaning on the counter for dear life, sniffling and shuddering silently, and then the pitter-patter of little feet entered the room.

Claire instantly pushed off the counter, wiping her face and donning a brilliant smile. Jamie watched in awe as Claire greeted her child, smiling and cooing even with her face still stained with tears.

“Look, see?” Claire said, lifting the wean onto her hip. “Your milk is heating.”

“Can I put a candy cane in my hot chocolate?”

“Of course you can.” Claire nuzzled the curls that peeked out from the bottom of the silly red hat. “And,” Claire spun them around, bringing them to the white box where the milk had come from, “Christmas cookies for breakfast.” She clung to the child in one arm and reached up for a container atop the white box with the other. The child squealed with glee.

“Do I get to eat them in the living room?”

“On Christmas? Certainly.”

Claire popped a cookie in her mouth, having opened the tin, and the child opened his or her little mouth expectantly, and Claire obliged, causing them both to giggle with mouths full of cookies, things that vaguely resembled biscuits, Jamie decided.

“Go on, bring these to Daddy. I’ll be right in.” Claire set the child back on the floor, placing the tin of cookies in eager hands.

“Okay, but hurry. I really really really wanna open the big one that says ‘from Mama’!”

Claire chuckled softly, then crouched down to kiss the child’s little nose. “I’ll be as fast as I can.”

With that, Claire was left alone again, bare feet echoing and disappearing. The mask immediately melted away, and that bone-tired grief, that sadness returned, physically sagging her shoulders, making her look smaller.

“How…?” Jamie breathed, watching as she poured some of the warm milk into a porcelain-looking mug and mixed in a brown powder.

He couldn’t finish his thought through the rush of tears clogging his throat: How can she pretend that well?

“You aren’t the only one who is unhappy, Jamie,” Spirit-Claire spoke for the first time in a long while. Present-Claire reached up into a cabinet and retrieved a curved red and white stick, putting the straight end into the mug and hooking the curve on the edge, allowing a tiny smile as she did.

“But you go on for the ones you love.”

Jamie felt that ice cold hand again, and he simultaneously felt like he would burn alive with shame. Here Claire was, being strong for her child, their child, and Jamie could not manage to do the same for the son she’d left behind with him.

He watched Claire pour coffee into two more mugs, and then Frank appeared.

“Are ehm...are you alright?”

Claire nodded wordlessly, her back still to him. “Coffee’s done. Grab the hot chocolate, would you?”

Frank nodded wordlessly, even though her back was still all he could see. “I’ll just…”

Without another word, he left. Present-Claire sighed heavily, two mugs in hand, and followed after him, her chin held high.

Christ...she’s a brave wee thing.

“Jamie.”

He jolted, having stared after her long after she left the room with the coffee. He turned around to Spirit-Claire, and she was holding the pearls out to him again.

“It’s time to go.”

He swallowed and walked toward her. “Claire...I...I’m sorry...I didna…”

“Did you think I was happy?” The pearls lowered. Her tone wasn’t accusatory, not at all. It was even, gentle. “Did you think it was somehow easier for me?”

“I...ye’re...ye’re stronger than me, mo ghraidh. Ye always have been.”

“Oh, Jamie…” Her face softened, her amber eyes turning liquid.

“Will ye...will ye be gone when I touch these…?”

Claire pursed her lips, nodding.

Jamie exhaled shakily. “Christ...it’s like losing ye again…”

“I’ll be back,” she said softly, but did not elaborate. This was not the first time her spirit had graced his fevered dreams, nor would it be the last, he was sure.

“I love you, Claire.”

“I love you.”

He went to reach for her, to close the distance between them, but she lifted the pearls again, halting him.

“You made our daughter a promise...will you make me a promise?”

Jamie nodded, his chin trembling. “Anything, Claire. Anything.”

“You have to be present for him.”

Jamie blinked dumbly.

“He needs you.”

He swallowed thickly.

“Promise me.”

“I…” Silent tears slipped out again. “I’ll try, Claire. I promise I’ll try.”

She nodded, her lips taut.

“Go on, Jamie. Time is running out.”

He watched the string of pearls dangling, swinging back and forth like a pendulum. 

“I love you,” he said again, reaching his fingers toward the pearls.

“And I, you.”

His fingers closed around them, and when Jamie fell to his knees in the pitch-black cave, he was met with unfathomable despair. He could still feel the phantom, white-hot touch of his daughter’s little hand, even if he couldn’t hold her himself. But Claire…

She never touched me.

He wept quietly, all while knowing that the trials of this night were far from over.

[xiaomoxu]

LUCIEN - Setting up Stall Date Part 3 and 4 (Christmas Date)

SPOILER ALERT!!

This is Christmas Date 2020 from CN server which hasn't been released on EN server yet. Might contains some spoiler.

Brace yourself for sweet moment from Lucien and MC ☺

I'm doing this translation for personal reason, so I'm sorry if there's some mistranslation. Kindly tell me if you found some :) feel free to read it~ ^^

I used Lucien CN name on it, Xu Mo.

Read the previous part here

PART 3

I was stunned for a second, then looked back and saw Xu Mo looking at the surrounding environment naturally.

Xu Mo: I like the decoration of this shop.

I blinked slowly and suddenly realized that he was rehearsing the scene of receiving customers with me.

Xu Mo: Miss, is there something on my face? You seem to be staring at me all the time.

Xu Mo's sudden "trick" was like a light feather, gently and just right to sweep away the tension in my heart.

I breathed out gently and took the wish card on the table to show him.

MC: Welcome!

MC: You can exchange any item for our wish card, write your wish and hang it on the Christmas tree in front of the door.

MC: Half an hour before the end of the market, we will select a lucky person to fulfill their wish.

Xu Mo: Do I have to exchange an item?

He spoke softly, then looked thoughtfully at the clock on the wall.

Xu Mo: It seems that the time is just right.

Before I could understand what he meant, I heard a slight noise behind me.

I turned my head when I heard the sound, something in the fireplace was slowly falling down the smokeー

A beautiful gift box hung from the end of the balloon and fell down, and finally stopped firmly on the ground.

MC: This is...?

MC: A gift from a Santa Claus who has not received professional training for MC.

I was pleasantly surprised to pick up the slap-sized gift box and shook it lightly, vaguely feeling that it was a square thing.

I was about to pull off the streamer, the bell at the door made a pleasant sound, and a young girl appeared before our eyes

Seeing the real guests come in, I carefully put the gifts -that I had no time to unpack- in my pocket, looked at Xu Mo and took a deep breath.

MC: I'm going by first!

When I brushed past Xu Mo, he seemed to encourage me and lightly squeezed the palm of my hand.

I turned my head and blinked at him, took the wish card and walked to the girl, explaining the rules of the wish house with ease.

The girl quickly showed a curious expression and took out a piece of chewing gum from her pocket.

Girl: Is this also can be exchanged?

I nodded enthusiastically and gave her the wish card in my hand.

Thinking of the "exercise" that had just been interrupted, I picked up another wish card and put it in Xu Mo's hand.

MC: Fulfill the rules of the Wish House, this is the wish card you just exchanged.

Xu Mo smiled and took the card and wrote. I just wanted to look up, but he turned around and gently pinched my cheek.

Xu Mo: Rather than taking a peek, I hope you selected it.

After speaking, he hung the wish card on the Christmas tree at the door of the wish house.

After a while, more tourists poured into the store. After explaining the rules again and again, everyone took out their belongings in exchange for wish cards.

Tourist A: This is the leaf I picked up from the ground, Can I change it?

Tourist B: And me, this is chocolate!

Tourist C: Is this a charity event?

Seeing the "business booming" in the store, and the excitement in my heart lasted for a long time.

MC: Please put the items to be exchanged with me, and then go to the side to receive your wish card.

Tourist D: Lady Boss, can this be changed too?

When I heard the two words "Lady Boss", I subconsciously turned my head and bumped Xu Mo's eyes into fullness.

He handed the card in his hand to the tourists in front of him naturally.

Xu Mo: Of course, please pick up your wish card from me.

I tried my best to suppress the rising corners of my mouth and put the things exchanged by tourists into the storage box.

Soon, the last wish card was also hung on the Christmas tree.

At this time, the Christmas tree has been clothed with a wish, and the layers of cards carry everyone's wishes.

Thinking that behind these different wishes, there is a person who is thinking about it, and there is a warm feeling in my heart.

Time passed quickly, and after a while, many familiar faces came back again in front of the door, which seemed to remind me that it was time to draw my wish card.

After checking the clock on the wall, I walked to the Christmas tree with Xu Mo and waved enthusiastically.

MC: Time is up, now we are about to pick up today's lucky ones!

MC: To ensure fairness and justice, I will blindly draw a wish card with my eyes closed and three circles!

After that, I closed my eyes in the undulating cheers, and countless cards slid across my fingertips, making a rustling sound.

After a few laps, after pulling off a card in the dark, I slowly opened my eyes

"Last year we were lucky enough to encounter mistletoe, so what will we encounter this year?

PART 4

Such a familiar handwriting, I almost recognized it without hesitation.

I turned my head to look at Xu Mo beside me, his brows and eyes curled, as if he already knew the result.

Xu Mo: It seems, I have always been lucky with you.

Xu Mo turned his head slightly, leaving a faint voice in my ear.

The butterfly kiss under the mistletoe appeared in my mind, as if the touch at that time was still between my lips.

Until my thoughts were interrupted by the sounds around me.

Tourist: What is it, everyone is so curious, let's announce it soon!

I looked at the content on the card, and after hesitating for a few seconds, I took a deep breath and read it out.

Sure enough, everyone was at a loss when they heard it, but it didn't take long for them to shout in excitement.

Tourist: Whose wish is this, hurry up and claim it!

Suddenly, Xu Mo held the palm of my hand and shook it gently in the air.

MC: It's mine.

As soon as Xu Mo's words fell, the surroundings boiled and several tourists pointed towards him.Tourist: The owner of Wish House!

Tourist B: What a coincidence! If she didn't close her eyes and rotate three times, I would really think it was a black box operation!

The surrounding voices fluctuated, and most of them were for Xu Mo to explain the meaning of the wish card. I hesitated and was about to divert the topic, but Xu Mo spoke first.

Xu Mo: I believe that when everyone writes down their wishes, they will think of the person they care about the most.

Xu Mo: Therefore, for me, the meaning of this wish is also a secret in my heart.

Xu Mo: Sorry, I can only reveal that much.

Xu Mo: Let this secret be known only to me and my "Lady Boss".

After the words fell, the tourists put on a meaningful smile and kept blessing us.

Subsequently, the Wish House gradually returned to its original appearance under the continuous blessings...

Finally, only me and Xu Mo were left.

(CG karma included as well)

Xu Mo came to me with two cups of hot drinks and sat next to me.

I took the cup and took a breath, there was a warm stream slid into my stomach. After I completely relaxed, I picked up the gift box in my pocket.

MC: There were too many people just now, and there was no chance to open it....

MC: It's done now. I want to open it when there are only two of us.

Xu Mo: I hope you will not be disappointed.

I shook my head in disapproval, and carefully removed the wrapping paper.

A beautiful snowflake specimen appeared before my eyes.

Every small branch extends from a flawless angle, like a work of art that cannot be reproduced.

MC: This is...?

Xu Mo: It comes from the first snow of the year.

Xu Mo: I was in the office that day and when I got back to my senses, I found myself standing in the snow.

Xu Mo: Suddenly I wondered if you would have the same regrets as me.

Xu Mo: "It would be nice if I could be by your side at this time."

Xu Mo: So I kept this moment.

MC: I'm just like you, thinking it would be nice if you were by my side at this time...

I lowered my head and rubbed my palms gently with my fingertips along the lines of the snowflakes, wanting to impress deeply in my heart.

MC: Xu Mo, I like this gift very much, especially...

It turns out that even when we are not around, we still have the same thoughts.

Although the movements of my hands are gentle, the surging in my heart has already turned over and over again.

MC: Xu Mo, now let me fulfill my wish for you.

MC: This is what I have always wanted to do for you, and it is also the original inspiration for Wish House.

I got up and walked to the window, hanging the "snowflakes" in my hand there. Then he raised Xu Mo's hand and walked to the shop window outside the door.

MC: Last year you told a legend under the mistletoe..

MC: Now I want to tell you a legend under "The Witness of the Window".

MC: In fact, no matter when and where, as long as two people care about each other, it is the most romantic legend.

In the slow confession, I kept looking deeply at Xu Mo, and his eyes followed my words, with shining brilliance flowing.

MC: So we have already realized this most romantic legend.

After speaking, I stood on my tiptoe and slowly tilted towards Xu Mo, and the breath of each other kept approaching.

Suddenly, the craze spread on my lips, soft and infatuating.

The cold snowflakes covered our body and then quickly dissipated on the hot skin. The Christmas music rang out in the sky also disappeared in my ears.

I don't know how long it took, he finally let me go slowly.

Xu Mo: If I had known it earlier, you did this to fulfill my wish.

Xu Mo: I might write a more "excessive" wish.

The corners of my mouth couldn't help but rise, turning my head to his ear and whispering.

MC: After today is over, the Wish House will be in my heart, always open for you.

The smile in Xu Mo's eyes grew deeper and deeper, the next second he stretched out his hand and hugged me into his arms.

-END-

[eggytranslations]

Volume 1, Chapter 9-Family

Quick notes: I'm switching to one update every two weeks for now (sorry my schedule is really busy with new job) and will update on my twitter if I cannot make the biweekly Friday updates...o-(-( trying to rope another translator in, so we shall see how that goes! Chapter 10 and 11 are both pretty short so I think we should be good for those chapters. Okay on to the main course: enjoy!

Content warnings: n/a

For three straight days, the mountain villa became unusually lively yet again; it was all because the elder Young Master Shen had come back from the gates of death.

In the midst of this clamoring noise, Shen Qingxuan was as calm as usual. Dressed in a crescent white robe, he sat on the chair with a smile and easily accepted the concern that came from all directions. He nodded and listened attentively in a modest and well-mannered way while maintaining a cultured and refined manner.

This stirred another wave of pitying voices that all said, Such a good kid, and yet fate would tease in such a way.

Shen Qingxuan had already perfected an entire body of copper skin and iron bones towards these pitying words, so when he heard them, naturally, they did not hurt or itch. Yet these words stirred the thoughts of Mother Shen who was next to him. She shed tears several times, and yet she feared that Shen Qingxuan would be even more upset once he saw her, so she swiftly hid her face by turning away to wipe her tears.

How could these actions of hers hide from Shen Qingxuan’s sharp eyes. With the affinity between a mother and a child, Shen Qingxuan knew what she was thinking, so he also pretended that he did not see her and shifted his gaze onto other people.

When the banquet opened, Shen Qingxuan had the servant girl push him from the table to leave. Everyone knew that Shen Qingxuan’s body was frail and could not drink wine, simultaneously, he was still recovering from a serious illness so he could not accompany the guests and tax his mind. Thus, one after another, they urged him to rest well and waited for Shen Qingxuan to leave before they started toasting and drinking wine to their fill.

-

Shen Qingxuan returned to his room and listened briefly to the outside noise through his window lattice before he laughed bitterly to himself. Who knows how many times these kinds of banquets had been held, and who knows how many more times they will be held in the future. Who knows?

Even if Yi Mo helped him, and allowed him to be no different from any other person after this year, he, however, still did not know what hardships he would suffer in the future.

-

Feng shui fluctuated and worldly affairs were fickle.

Ever since he was resuscitated from the ice cave, Shen Qingxuan finally understood the meaning of these eight words that his father constantly uttered from his mouth.

Who could have expected that the gentle and mild beauty from a humble family, who had bashfully and timidly married into the Shen family for three years—his second mother, who previously cared for him extremely well, would employ someone to almost take his life?

He had never even considered it.

Even remembering it now, after so many years coolly observing as a bystander, the pain was just as fresh.

-

Right as he was lost in thought, there came the sound of a set of hurried footsteps from the courtyard. The footsteps were quite brisk and carried impatience as well as the unique heavy sound of an official’s boots. Shen Qingxuan’s gloomy eyes lit up slightly, the smile he always wore on his face also showed some sincerity.

“Gege!” The doors were suddenly pushed open, stirring up bits of dust. The sun shone in from the outside and revealed a clean-cut face in between the dancing dust particles. Because it was a meeting with family, that heroic and spirited face carried some of the rashness of a child.

When he saw his elder brother sitting on the chair and looking at him with an expression full of smiles, the young man was embarrassed all of a sudden. He quickly drew back his hand, and recovered a degree of steadiness before he said in greeting, “Gege.”

Shen Qingxuan beckoned with his hand, calling the man over to his side. Then he grabbed the man’s hand to pull down that tall body, flicked the man’s forehead with his finger out of habit, and said silently, I thought you had made some progress, how are you still this reckless.

Ever since childhood, Shen Zhen has been able to read his elder brother’s lips. He hastily used a hand to massage his unscathed forehead and harrumphed, “I wanted to be more reserved, but I was worried I would scare you into not recognizing me as your very own didi.”

Hearing this, Shen Qingxuan smiled while he stroked his brother’s neatly bound hair piece

, and asked, How did you have time to come see me today?

“Gege just recovered from a serious illness, how could I not come?” Shen Zhen squatted down with one hand propped on his elder brother’s leg and moved in front of him to act like a spoiled child, just like when they were children. His eyes were full of faith and dependence only possible between one’s flesh and blood, a bond thicker than water. Shen Qingxuan looked at this face that was remarkably similar to his second mother’s face, and could only feel tranquility in his heart. Towards this face that had stuck to his side from childhood, he really could not summon any hatred.

Even if he knew full well that he was reduced to this sorry state today all because of this person.

The second son of the Shen family, who had just turned one year old that year.

-

Master Shen had once held his eldest son with one arm and with his other arm, he cradled his second son who was still in his swaddling clothes, sucking on his thumb and quietly sleeping. Then he turned to his two wives and said, full of pride, “In the future, this eldest son of mine will bring honor to our Shen family and receive noble titles. When we get old in the future, the matters of our support and burials will depend on this little guy. In this way, the Shen family is basically perfect."

All the expectations in his words fell on Shen Qingxuan who was merely seven years old.

He only saw his eldest son’s intelligence and considered the Shen family status, but he never saw the smiles of his two wives who were standing in front of him, and how much reluctance and grievance was hidden in the smile on one of the two faces.

Why? Just because he was the second son, so he could only end up with a captive-at-home, mediocre, and nameless future for the rest of his life?

The woman was narrow-minded, and at the time, did not consider that each person had their own fate. If indeed her son worked hard, how could Master Shen disregard his son’s future? It was nothing more than careless words said in a moment of joy. Yet she took it seriously. She developed malicious intentions and harmed Shen Qingxuan for the rest of his life.

When she finally understood this, the transgression had already been committed.

-

With a pat on the back of the youth who laid on his knees, Shen Qingxuan looked at him as he said, After becoming an official, you have probably fallen behind on the sword and spear, no?

Shen Zhen shook his head at once. “There is no such thing. If gege does not believe it, we can go to the courtyard and I will perform for you.”

Shen Qingxuan laughed as he nodded, and Shen Zhen promptly got up to push him. The two brothers went out the doors of the room, stopping in the spacious area in the middle of the courtyard.

Shen Zhen retrieved a long staff, flashed a showy move, and said while holding the staff, “Gege look closely, didi is showing off the staff for you.”

Shen Qingxuan was still smiling a smile without restraint.

Seeing this, Shen Zhen also grinned. The wooden staff in his hand started to move around like a nimble snake. As he brandished the staff, it swept up a whistling wind, stirring dust in every which way and blurring light and shadow. When he struck the ground, it reverberated with a heavy sound, and with a great force, trenches appeared in the sandy yellow soil.

Shen Qingxuan watched closely, enthralled until a set of staff exercises were completed and he promptly clapped his hands, not at all hiding his desire to praise him.

After receiving his eldest brother’s praise, Shen Zhen became even more pleased with himself. He tossed aside the staff, picked up a spear, and flaunted another set of spear exercises for Shen Qingxuan to watch. It was slightly inferior to his staff technique, yet it still gave a vigorous feeling of strength.

-

The two brothers were in the courtyard, one person performing for the other to watch. They played until the red sun set into the evening, then Shen Qingxuan indicated for him to stop and called for a servant to bring over a wet cloth and hot tea.

Shen Zhen noisily downed a cup of tea, wiped the sweat from his face, then moved closer towards Shen Qingxuan again, and said, “Gege, do you have any advice?”

Shen Qingxuan cast a sidelong glance at him, What advice do I have for you?

Shen Zhen laughed mischievously, “Gege come on, dad said when you were little you liked to brandish spears and play with sticks. You even secretly took the martial arts teacher’s polearm to poke a bird’s nest and made the master really angry, do you dare deny this?”

Hearing this, Shen Qingxuan thought back and vaguely recalled some pieces, but could not remember more concrete details.

These old affairs from years ago, if Shen Zhen had not mentioned them, Shen Qingxuan could not have thought of them. Even though Shen Zhen mentioned them now, he still could not remember.

Occasionally, there were fragments that floated and flashed across his mind, but he did not think those things had happened to him.

Those past events felt faintly like a previous life, or perhaps an even more distant time ago, that was soaked by the yellowing of time into a sheet of brittle and thin paper, breaking with just one touch.

Fragmented and incomplete.

Shen Qingxuan’s expression slightly dimmed into gloominess.

-

Shen Zhen realized he misspoke and changed the topic at once. He tugged the hand Shen Qingxuan was resting on his knee, and said eagerly, “Gege, I get to visit the mountains for once, and you made me work this half-day. How about you play a board of chess with me?”

Shen Qingxuan roused his spirits and asked, What happens if you lose?

Shen Zhen rubbed his temples, then whispered near his elder brother’s ear, “Like old times?”

Shen Qingxuan became happier too and nodded in agreement as the two men went back inside.

-

They let the serving boys send the tea and pastries into the room. After everything was prepared in order, Shen Zhen fastened the doors and windows tightly and checked again if they were secure or not. It was like he was deeply afraid of someone discovering something and had the guilty expression of an uneasy thief. Watching this, Shen Qingxuan could not stop his muffled laughter.

The cushioned mat was spread out on the daybed and the two of them sat opposite each other. Shen Qingxuan wiped the chessboard again then took out the black and white pieces and asked, Like old times?

Shen Zhen nodded his head immediately, as if he was afraid that he would back out, and snatched the black pieces, putting down a piece first, then another piece, and then another piece again.

As soon as the chess game started, he snatched the black pieces and put down three of them.

Shen Qingxuan raised his brow and looked at him for a long moment, soundlessly chiding, You really have not grown at all.

Shen Zhen quickly countered, “You are the elder brother and older than me by seven years so you should actually have let me by seven pieces. Now it is only three pieces, my progress is already not small at all.”

Shen Qingxuan held the white piece as he put one down and ignored him.

Shen Zhen quieted down as well, observing the match and beginning to play seriously.

Shen Zhen took the advantage at the beginning, and in the time of one stick of incense, he had killed the game into a treacherous and hard to predict match. With sharp moves, he encircled a portion of Shen Qingxuan’s white pieces, feeling rather pleased with himself.

However, Shen Qingxuan did not even lift his head, and solely focused on placing his pieces. When the match had gone on for a period of two sticks of incense, Shen Zhen’s sharp peaks and edges were all chopped off to nothingness, not one was spared. Furthermore, White was like a dragon entrenched in a mountain range, biding its time to act, just waiting for a command so that it could seize the land in this game within an instant.

“Gege.” Shen Zhen wiped the cold sweat that did not actually exist from his forehead and said hastily, “Gege’s opening and closing were well considered with an impressive performance this match……” how about you spare didi this time?

He had not finished speaking before Shen Qingxuan, with a smile in his eyes, had already turned around to take the pen that was placed to the side. He filled the pen with ink and unhurriedly wrote: Do not flatter me. Lift your face up.

Shen Zhen instantly shut his mouth and handed over his face with misery.

A moment later, a big, crawling tortoise had been added to that handsome face.

Shen Zhen jumped down from the daybed and grabbed a mirror to look at his face. He moaned and groaned, “The more I flatter, the more lifelike this tortoise gets. So it is clear that this flattery still needs to be flattered, especially gege’s flattery.”

Shen Qingxuan impatiently patted the chessboard, saying, Again.

Shen Zhen had no choice but to return to his seat. He also carefully checked the windows to see if there were cracks so as to prevent any other people from seeing him. That would be so embarrassing.

-

Up until dinner time, the two of them still had the doors and windows tightly shut, unwilling to come out. All the servants waited outside because the people inside still had not allowed them to set up the dinner. This finally alarmed Master Shen.

When Master Shen heard that his sons refused to take their meals, he rushed over at once and stood outside the doors as he asked, “What kind of mishap have you two gotten into?”

Only after a moment did Shen Zhen’s voice come from the room, “Dad, I am playing chess with xiong zhang.”

At first, Master Shen was baffled, and then his face held back a strange expression. He stood for a minute before he waved away the crowd of servants. “You all go on first, keep the dishes warm, and bring them again in a double-hour.”

After he sent them all away, Master Shen leaned on the door as he said in a low voice, “Xuan’er, let dad come in and take a look.”

Immediately, sounds of frantic commotion came from behind the doors. Master Shen waited without a worry, and sure enough, his youngest son was no match for his eldest son. Shen Qingxuan pushed his wheelchair over and opened the door.

-

After he came inside and looked around, Master Shen headed towards the screen

, still using a benevolent voice, “Come out and let dad have a look.”

There was absolute silence from behind the screen.

“Do not be like a girl, come out and let dad see.” Master Shen continued to coax him.

Shen Zhen refused to come out.

Shen Qingxuan closed the door once again, wheeled over, and pushed down the screen. Shen Zhen did not expect his brother to do this, and had no chance to hide. On instinct, he held up the screen that almost fell and ducked out of the way.

In this split second, Master Shen had already seen the scene he wanted to see. He let out a “pft,” then immediately held it in again until his beard was shaking.

Shen Qingxuan also lowered his face while his shoulders could not stop quaking. Clearly, he was holding back quite desperately.

Shen Zhen stood there with his whole face covered in tortoises that either crawled or stood or rolled, not even his ears were spared. Each of his earlobes had their own tiny tortoise that stretched out their necks and kicked their legs.

Master Shen held his stomach as he pointed at Shen Qingxuan with a shaking finger and said breathlessly, “Y-you……your elder brother, is truly, i-im-im……proper.”

Shen Qingxuan raised his head immediately, and with his bright, black eyes, he stared unblinking at his diedie.

Father and son looked at each other for a minute, and then suddenly turned away from each other without warning. One of them gaped his mouth as he roared with laughter silently while the other man laughed until he nearly lost his breath.

At first, Shen Zhen was indignant and yelled at the two of them to stop laughing. Then he saw that neither of them could stop. They were bent down and clutching their chest as they laughed until they could not breathe, which frightened him into ignoring his own mortification. He quickly ran over to pat their backs with one hand each, and helped them catch their breath. He was deeply afraid that these two would laugh until they were sick.

But he did not realize that his elder brother and father, as soon as they turned their heads and saw that painted face with anxiety written all over it, were unable to stop even if they wanted to stop.

Furthermore, Shen Qingxuan almost laughed out loud several times, and could only bite his tongue as he swallowed down the sound that had risen to his larynx yet again.

His joy was also a joy of extreme difficulty.

-

In these twenty years, there has never been a time that was not burdensome.

[namorres]

DO WE HAVE A DEAL?  ∞  E. MIKAELSON

part one | part two | part three

requested by: @mo-whore​ / @thesnugglingduck​ / @derangedangel​

wc |  3.2k

warnings |  y/n is a salvatore! so lots of wittiness :) but other than that, neh. 

notes: this part was going to be over 5k words and then i was liiiike nah. so look out for a part 3! :)

masterlist

Y/n’s foot bounced nervously against the hardwood of Mystic Grill, her fingers mindlessly swirling the drink in her glass. She’d been sitting there only a few minutes, maybe, but minutes still felt like hours when you were waiting for someone. An itching thought in the back of her mind told her he wouldn’t show, that this place was too obvious, but as her eyes scoured the surrounding patrons, she saw no one who could go back to her brothers and rat her out. She sighed though a bubble in her cheeks, flipping her phone over and checking for any texts of cancellation, or perhaps of the fashionably late excuse, but there was nothing on the screen. 

Her gaze drifted to the twisting alcohol in her drink, eyes low with annoyance at both him and herself. Herself for thinking he, an Original vampire who was beyond mysterious and definitely out for something, would trust her to meet up with him; him for just… existing. Her straw stuck to her lips and she took a drink, eyes drifting up to the entrance and locking on the entering guests. 

He almost slipped past her — though she wasn’t sure how that could happen. He was clad in a grey suit, neatly tailored and hugging all the right places. His hair was neat, but still casually laid on his head, and she found her heart skipping a beat. He was absolutely one of the most handsome men she’d ever met, and simultaneously, so goddamn insane. When his head turned and their eyes met, she sat straighter in her seat, legs crossing under the table and a fleeting smile gracing her lips. 

He gave a nod, then headed over, scoping out the rest of the Grill like she had. When he was within earshot, she snickered lightly, “I promise no one here knows who you are. Hell, doubt they even know who I am.” 

His lips parted as he breathed out, pinching his suit jacket apart as he sat down across from her. “Hello, Ms. Salvatore.” 

She flinched a little at the name, sucking her bottom lip between her teeth before shaking her head lightly, “Please, call me Y/n, Elijah. I’m not one for formalities.”

“As you wish,” he nodded, “you must forgive my tardiness, Y/n.” He propped his elbow on the table, fingers gesturing upward and lifting with his eyebrows, “I was caught up in some… business.” The way her name had come across his lips sent a strange shiver down the center of her back, forcing her to situate herself a little differently in her chair. This, most definitely, did not go unnoticed. 

“It’s no worry,” she dismissed, even though minutes before she’d been absolutely anxious out of her wits. “So, now that you’re here, would you mind indulging me in who Elijah Mikaelson is?”

He smiled, looking down toward the table as his hand fell flat against it. His eyes found her’s again after a moment, “What would you like to know?”

“Start from the beginning,” she lifted her chin, “tell me everything about why this Klaus character is after my brother’s girlfriend, why it matters so much that she stay alive, and why it matters to you that she’s alive.”

He gave a thoughtful nod, a small scoff leaving his chest as he let out a long breath, “Niklaus… is my younger brother.”

Y/n’s brows furrowed as she looked on at Elijah, “That’s not what I’ve heard. They said Klaus was the oldest of the Originals.”

Elijah chuffed out a laugh, leaning back in his chair and tapping his finger against the table, “At times, I’m sure he wishes he were. But, no. That would be me. I see people do their research.” She let out a chuckle at that, catching his eyes as they crinkled in the corners. She admired how witty he was — stark contrast from the deal-making, strictly-business Elijah she’d heard about from Rose. 

At the thought of the vampire, she pointed a finger to the ceiling in thought, “Quick question. A– well, an acquaintance of mine,” she cleared her throat — Rose was no friend to her, “claimed that you were… the easter bunny compared to Klaus.” She offered an amused smile with the delivery of her words.

Elijah’s eyes rolled and shook his head in annoyance, “Your acquaintance must be rather ill-informed, then. I can assure you, where Klaus is concerned, I am the worser-evil to cross.” 

“Oh,” Y/n said with a crinkle of her brow, “I don’t doubt it. You strike me as very threatening, Mr. Easter Bunny.” 

His eyes narrowed at her, head tilting to the side and a smirk threatening the corner of his lips, “Ms. Y/n, correct me if I’m wrong, but I believe you are… mocking me.”

She feigned thoughtfulness, tapping her chin with her index finger, “I think you might be right!” She laughed quietly with her statement, and Elijah couldn’t help the smile that stretched across his face.

“You bring me here to answer your questions, and instead I am met with mockery— quite frankly, I see no reason why we should deal any further,” he taunted, going to push off the table with one hand while the other pulled his jacket together. 

“No, no! Wait,” she surrendered, her hands up by her shoulders, “I give.” She chuckled, smiling a rather giddy grin, “I’ll stop. I’m seriously curious. It’s just funny!”

He raised a brow at her with a tight smile on his face, sitting down and returning to his laid-back position in the seat. “Very well, so, from the beginning.”

For the next few minutes, Elijah explained the curse that they were trying to break. Y/n was taken by much surprise when he revealed that the curse wasn’t real at all, instead written by him and his younger brother hundreds of years ago for kicks and grins. Then, he discussed with her Elena’s importance in it, detailing the necessity for the blood of a dopplegänger, as well as the other ingredients — a vampire, a witch, and a werewolf. 

“Niklaus will stop at nothing to make sure this curse is seen through,” Elijah sighed, eyes closing, “and I must make sure that it isn’t.” 

Y/n studied him for a moment, processing all of the information before drawing in a breath, “Elijah?”

He looked up at her in question.

“Why? Why do you not want Klaus to break his curse and embrace his natural state?” She wasn’t siding with the other Mikaelson, not in the slightest; the idea that you could finally be who you were after thousands of years of being only half of yourself, she was sure she’d jump at it every opportunity she had, too. 

“If he succeeds,” Elijah started, brows dropping and gaze levelling her’s, “then he will be entirely invincible. A hybrid. And, if that happens, he will rage a war on every species he can until he makes everyone cower before him.” He leans back and his chest swells with breath, “That is his natural state. A creature of bloodshed.”

“Oh,” she said, smally. Her eyes fell to the table, gears turning in her mind as she thought of what that could possibly mean. Everyone would be in danger once he became a hybrid — impervious to wooden stakes and practically any harm. 

There was a thick silence between them. Y/n wasn’t sure what to ask from there. It just seemed so dim, so dark, like there was no good in Klaus becoming a hybrid. And, truthfully, if the curse was not real, and vampires would always be damned to wear rings else they burn, then there was no good. The ritual was only a very bad idea. 

When she looked at Elijah again, his eyes were locked on the window, staring off and lost in his own thoughts. Then a question sparked in her mind, and without much thought, she blurted, “Can you kill him?”

Elijah blinked as he came back to reality, looking to Y/n with a narrowed gaze, “Yes. But that in itself will prove the most difficult task.”

Y/n had the thought of offering her help, but it was quickly squashed by the much more realistic thought that she truly wouldn’t have been able to do much. That, she figured, was a much more deep-rooted familial issue, and she had too many of those to deal with right now. She was not going to get in the middle of them. Instead, she sipped her drink and asked, “You have an idea of what you’re going to do, right?”

He nodded, “I do. Keep the most vital part of the ritual in my possession, strike when the time is right.” His vagueness made her temples itch with curiosity, but she knew it was pointless to ask. He was not going to reveal it all to her — there was trust, but not that much. She respected that. 

The rest of their visit was filled with lighter conversation, Y/n filling Elijah in on some of her own life with her brothers. She explained how she was there to help Lexi help Stefan, how she was there when Stefan had found Elena. She skipped over a few of the worser parts of her history — her selective distaste for her eldest brother, being one. But Elijah listened, and she was sure even with the blanks, he could tell just why she’d made this deal in the first place. 

“You care deeply for your brothers,” he murmured after a moment, fingers drumming lightly against the table.

“Yes,” she nodded, “you figured that out the first night we met.”

“Well,” he gave another smirk, “it was an educated guess at the time. Nothing more than a shot in the dark, as they say. But, you’ve proven me right.”

She scoffed, licking her lips and nodding, “You know, ‘Lijah,” her name slipped across her tongue so casually it took him almost by surprise, his eyes narrowing for only a moment, “I find it so strange that I can trust you.”

He gave a shrug of his shoulder, “I’ve been told I’ve that effect on people.” 

Another laugh, another exchange of adoring glances, and she nodded, “I’m sure you do.” 

They held each other’s look for a moment. Her heart was racing in her ears, and she knew he could hear it. But she didn’t mind. Something about the man in front of her drew her nearer, like a drug to an addict, and she was not at all appalled by the idea. In fact, she was intrigued with him. The secrets he held behind those brown eyes, the unsaid words held back by his tongue, the smile that graced his lips, it all told her so much yet so little about him. And she loved it. 

Then his phone rang. Quickly, he gave her an apologetic look and answered. His expression dropped, the smile replaced with a slack frown. “Alright. Make sure nothing happens until I get there.” Then he hung up and turned to her with a plastered smile, “Forgive me, Y/n. But I must find my leave.”

“Business?” She offered, witty yet sincere.

He nodded, standing from his seat and fixing his suit jacket. Then he took her hand that had been resting on the table and placed a gentle kiss to the knuckles, “I hope we have the chance to meet like this again, Y/n Salvatore.” Then, he was gone, as if he’d never been there at all.

                                                              ∞

Over the next few days, it only proves harder and harder for Y/n to keep her side of the deal with Elijah. Elena continuously puts herself in the position of absolute death, and it’s driving all three of the Salvatore’s up the wall. She hadn’t heard from the Original, but she was sure he was aware of all of it, as well, and it the annoyance was settling deep with him, too. 

Y/n sat low on the couch, entirely invisible to anyone who were to walk in. She’d heard Damon leave earlier that morning, heard Rose say something of not leaving a girl hanging, and she’d cringed. Of course Damon was sleeping with a kidnapper. Makes perfect sense. She rolled her eyes and scoffed lightly, scrolling through her phone and pushing away the rather horrid mental image.

Then the door opens behind her, yet she doesn’t bother to check to see who comes in. She can already tell by the light feet and the rapid heartbeat. Elena had made her entrance. But she doesn’t say anything, and Y/n thinks a moment about sitting up and asking her what she wants, but Rose beats her to it by coming around the corner and making some flirtatious comment about how Damon left a naked girl in his house. 

Again, gross. 

She heard their awkward conversation, Elena’s need for something from Rose, and then she perks up when Rose pads away. Why hadn’t she gone to her brothers? Surely if she truly needed something, she would’ve gone to Stefan. But then again, how could she? Stefan, the dumbass, ever valiant white-knight, had gotten himself stuck in a tomb with Katherine, and the reminder of the thought made Y/n wince. 

Even then, with their current plight, she would’ve at least considered going to Damon, first. Not Rose. Y/n sighed, sitting up from the couch and catching Elena’s gaze almost instantly. “What, pray tell, are you up to?”

“N– Y/n, I’m not– Nothing, I’m not up to anything,” the Gilbert girl stuttered and Y/n’s eyes narrowed. The vampire didn’t have to say anything before Elena cracked under the weight of her glare, “Fine! Fine! I’m– You can’t tell Damon, okay?”

Y/n looked off to the right, then considered the possibilities. If she didn’t tell her brother, she would likely get a stern talking to, and then life would go on, and if she did tell her brother, he’d probably rip Elena a new one for keeping something so important from him, and Y/n had made a deal with Elijah to keep her safe. Giving in with a sigh, she shrugged, “Fine, I won’t tell ‘im. But you’ve gotta tell me, and if you’re going somewhere, I’m coming with. No argument.”

Elena seemed annoyed enough, but she didn’t come up with anything to say in retaliation. “Yeah, okay. I’m gonna find Klaus. Or get information, anyway. Whichever comes first.”

Y/n stared at her for a moment, lips parting and brows furrowing, “Why?”

Elena said nothing, shrugging.

The vampire’s eyes nearly rolled into the back of her head. She’d have to play it off like she didn’t know about the Original and his wants, and she knew that if Elena started asking too many questions too soon, there was going to be someone bound to come after her. Y/n wasn’t stupid — there was more to this game Elena was playing and she just had yet to show her hand. “You know that is a terrible idea, yeah? If you go poking around too much—” She cut herself off as an open-ended warning. 

Again, just a doe-eyed look in response.

Y/n huffed, walking toward the girl and then directly past her, grabbing her jacket from the hook. “Fine. I cannot let you get yourself killed, and you, obviously, are hellbent on doing that, so looks like I’ve gotta step in, huh?”

Y/n’s smile was genuine, but the sarcasm that laced her tone was anything but. She was annoyed, yes, but she did want to make sure Elena stayed safe — both for her brother’s sakes and her own. Rose joined them moments later, clad in leather, and she stopped at the sight of Y/n. Then Elena quickly explained that the Salvatore sister would be coming along, yet the tension didn’t lift.

Y/n was nothing if not critical of the women that were so carelessly brought into the Salvatore’s lives. Especially when they brought ancient vampires out for blood along with them. 

“Shall we?”

                                                              ∞

“So,” Y/n sighed as they approached the rather large looking apartment doors, “this Slater guy has everything you need to get to Klaus? Is that what you’re saying?” “Slater has information on every vampire that’s ever lived,” Rose offered, looking up the door, then down at the handles, “if there’s anyone with a connection to Klaus, he knows them.”

“Well,” Elena gestured to the door, “let’s ask him.”

Rose shot her a look, then knocked once, shouting his name. When there was no response, she was ready to turntail and leave, and Y/n couldn’t say she didn’t agree. But Elena stood her ground, “No. We didn’t come all the way out here for nothing.”

With a roll of her eyes, she pushed in the door and chains rattled to the ground, “After you.”

Y/n and Elena walked in ahead of her, looking around the apartment. It was spacious, modern as modern could get. The vampire smiled at the appreciation this Slater guy had for architecture. There was another beat, Rose calling out Slater’s name before stopping dead in her tracks.

“I don’t think he’s going to be much help,” she called. Elena raced to her spot, and Y/n followed behind, the three of them stopping to stare at the dead vampire lying on the ground. 

“Damn,” Y/n whispered, walking past the two women and crouching down to Slater. The wooden stake hadn’t been a stake at all, but something broken off. “Doesn’t look like he struggled with anybody,” her eyes darted around the room before she stood up. “Everything’s in its place, nothing’s messed up. Whoever killed him was in and outta here without so much as a shoeprint.” 

Rose deflated as she walked over, leaning down and pressing a soft hand to his shoulder. Within a few minutes, they had covered his body and moved on to what they’d come here to do. Elena walked over to the computer, Rose standing right next to her, and Y/n standing back just a little. When she clicked the mouse, a password screen popped up. “It’s password protected, I can’t get in.” 

Rose was quick to offer up the idea of leaving, and once again, Y/n couldn’t see why she was wrong. Then, any thoughts were interrupted by an abrupt clatter from further back in the apartment. Y/n turned over her shoulder, and Rose warned Elena to stay back. The two vampires walked to the source of the sound, Rose looking to the Salvatore before opening the door. At first, it didn’t look like anything had been in there, then a woman peeked around a cabinet, shaking and absolutely terrified. 

“Alice?”

“Rose!” The woman came from behind the cabinet, sobbing and falling into Rose. Y/n looked at Rose, then to Elena, the three of them exchanging knowing glances. 

It was only becoming harder to convince Elena this was a bad idea.

[zombiejoepino]

The Scavenger. CH: 2 (Cobb Vanth x OC fanfic)

CH 2: The Bounty

Fandom: The Mandalorian

Pairing: Cobb Vanth x OC!Female (in her late 20´s if you wondered)

Word count: 2923

Summary: A dangerous man is trying to keep a bounty in secret. He is waiting news from his missing hunters. Back in Mos Pelgo, The Marshal guards at night.

Warnings: angst

A/N: English is not my first language so i apologize in advance if i butchered your language. If you want to read the first part is right here. Thanks for stopping by and I hope you enjoy it

FULL STORY HERE :

UPDATE. CHAPTER 3 IS UP! 

CHAP 2: THE BOUNTY

Another night in the crowded bar.

A light smoke covered the atmosphere, live music was banging in the walls as the blue-skinned singer charmed the audience with her smooth voice.

Hunters, travelers, or anyone looking for passage was that night. Some of them just enjoyed a drink while talking business, others just gambled from time to time the sound of a blaster roared and another body dropped dead. Didn’t pull fast enough, others thought.

Just a regular night at Mos Espa.

The smoky drink traveled its way around the joint, crossing around colorful and loud characters. All of them must have a good story about the Old Republic or the Empire. They would exchange facts and anecdotes but there was always someone taking credit for things that didn’t happen. That would end up in a whole fight.

The drink finally made its way to the lone booth, stopping right in front of this man. Dark hair, a dark eye, and a pale one that followed the X shape scar across his left side. A strong clean shaved jaw and a heavy frown. Captain Qod was his name.

There were rumors about him, no one could tell for sure if he was a rebel pilot that went rogue or an imperial pilot turned into a bounty hunter. All that everyone knew was that he was good at stealing and hunting.

He and his gang, the Shadows, got quite a reputation for pulling out heists on New Republic cargo. They were smart enough to stay low for a time before going all over again. The last job was easy on terms, things went sideways in a matter of seconds. He lost two crew members, one betrayed them, the rest flee to the closest location.

His fingers drummed patiently, then stopped to take the smoky drink. He took a small sip and made a face.

Between the crowd, a skinny pale man flashed his yellowish smile at him and waved nervously. Wan Plog was a slippery one that always shifted between alliances. Our lone man didn’t make any expression while looking at him but just followed his clumsy actions with his eyes.

The nervous pale man reached the lone booth and waited before he was allowed to sit down. He rubbed his hands together and took the cloak from his head.

“They haven’t come back, boss.” Plog smiled nervously. “But maybe that’s not all bad. Probably found her and are just waiting to bring her. You know how the desert is. Raiders and other creatures.” He chuckled.

Max Qod, just gave him a long stare and sipped the smoky drink again. He didn’t blink even once.

“But if they don’t find her, I made this.” The pale man looked through his pockets and dropped a rounded dark object. He picked it up quickly, cleaned it up a bit, and slid it through the table.

Qod put down his drink and rose a brow looking at the puck. He pressed it and the blueish hologram displayed the young redhead image and last name; Roznev. Charges: Theft.  

“I know It’s a high price, boss, but maybe the best of the best can find her. Maybe if we send this to the Guild. After all, what she took is wh-” Plog's words were cut when the Captain's large hand-pulled him by the hood and made him bang his head in the table.

There was a small moment of silence but the crowd just decided to ignore it as they do with other conflicts or shootouts.

Qod press his head down on the table and moved close enough to his ears and whisper. “You know if you spit any word of what she has, others will come for it. I dunno who told you to make that, but you better destroy it.” He squeezed the head down, poor Plog let out a squeak.

“Better find those idiots, I don’t care if you have to track them down personally. Cant trust bounty hunters.”  

Qod shoved him away from the booth and looked down at the pale man. His expression was severe. He left 3 rounded chips on the table and walked away. The folks around just stepped aside to clear the Captain's way.

No one wanted to mess with The Shadows' leader.

…

Nighttime was the quietest at Mos Pelgo; kids were at the house getting ready to sleep. The local business closed when the sunset down. Only the old Weequay kept the light up as he cleaned up his pub, sweeping quietly. Even Banthas were mooing from time to time, almost like they were singing at night.

There was no much action after earlier events. The stranger crashing a speeder close to the town and the Marshal taking down two of them. The third one wounded, probably a victim, or just trouble. That was the two ideas that bounced on The Marshal's head.

He fought so hard for this community to have a moment of peace and he wouldn’t allow strangers to bring trouble to them. No more Key Raiders, Mining Collective, or the Sand people, he would face them all if it was necessary.

Of course, he would stand for his town, he knows that bounty hunters can be ruthless like any enemy and they would try to hit on his weaknesses just to get the worst of him, just enough to make a mistake.

But what were Cobb Vanth´s weaknesses? He wasn’t sure, so far he grew a soft spot for the young stranger.

Her behavior towards him was amusing for him. It was a normal reaction not to trust each other, and yet he felt her long stares, quick looking aways followed by a frown and a tiny blush. He chuckled thinking about it.

He was aware of his appearance, he noticed when women stared at him a little longer, followed by flirty smiles or nervous giggles but it didn’t bother him. Cobb barely had time to flirt back or give them too much attention. There was a lot in his mind, responsibilities, and more. He kept those ideas away and tried to focus on the facts around the accident.

Two bounty hunters were after a young girl. He found a trashed puck but the bounty in the hologram was not her. There was a bag with different pieces that reminded him of Jawas. So, that made her a scavenger, stole from them by mistake and they followed.

The Marshal didn’t have much time to ask her anything about those two cause she passed out in his arms. He was quite surprised how long she endured after the crash and the beat up. That last part made him angry. He would get more intel if he let one of them alive but there was no reason to spare a woman beater's life.

The bruises on the redhead were not severe; puffy cheeks, a black eye, small scratches but the wounded knee worried him the most. It would take her a couple of days to walk and maybe keep up on the road or wherever she is going.

He needed to decide how long he would let the girl stay and not make the villagers anxious about her cause they didn’t like strangers at all. These are hard times and you can’t trust everybody you meet.

That cold night, he was guarding outside the town, keeping an eye in the dark desert, hoping no man or creature would dare to step a foot in his town; A long watch.

He didn’t mind staying there in the cold, after all, he couldn’t patch his eyes at home. All those nightmares kept him awake and just rolling around. He didn’t want to remember all over again when the red-hot steel was burning his skin. He kept his mind on the moment and not in the past. Besides, the new guest/prisoner needed a place to rest.

Was she a prisoner? She didn’t resist the arrest, it was like she had no other choice. It was hard to believe that such a fragile and delicate figure would be dangerous. He didn’t find any weapons in her belongings, there was a bag with random items and pieces to improve a small speeder.

Maybe she stole from the wrong people, the bounty hunters, but they didn’t kill her right away so, there must be something else.

His mind shook off all the ideas and focused on a moving shape. He rose the rifle and waited for a moment.

The old Dewback made a few grunts while stomping his way on the sand. His steps slowed down before it collapsed, breathing heavily. At any time, scavengers would come out to eat the agonizing old beast.

He thought about putting it down to ease its pain, but the noise would bring out something big and mean.

The Marshal observed another food chain example.  

…

Screams heard in the darkness.

Her feet felt heavy but didn’t dare to stop. Blasters and explosions just felt closer. Space was getting smaller each time and all the bodies squeezed together trying to breathe when the water reached them. The cage was closed, no one else was allowed to come out, they were left behind. They begged for help, for mercy but the faceless shooters couldn’t tell the difference. Extermination was everything in their program. She backed off to escape until she felt the heavy hand around her throat.

She gasped. The heartbeats pounding in her ears, trying to scream but she couldn’t open her mouth, unable to utter a sound and unable to move.

What seemed an eternity was probably no more than a few minutes when she found herself able to move again. A violent reaction followed by the struck of reality. There was no cage, no water, or hand around her throat. She couldn’t place her thoughts properly.

Her first move was to kick the bedsheets away. Her leg was burning and the other one was not enough to hold her weight. She groaned in pain but stop when the footsteps approached the room.

Nath did her best to sat up and reached the first object to cause enough damage to her captor; a bottle. It was still pretty dark so it was hard to tell. The adrenaline kept pumping in her veins.

The large shadow walked in and, she let out a mighty roar and jumped over it to smash a bottle on its head. The shadow stumbled with her, both crashing the ground. He struggled to keep her hands away from him as she swung her fists furiously.

“Hey! It's me!” He yelled while dodging the fists.

She was lost in her thoughts and kept fighting. He quickly wrapped his legs around her waist to shift the position to overpower her.

“Stop it, Nathsca!” His hands pinned her down on the floor. She wiggled trying to set herself free from his grip.

She fought for a few moments, then huffed and looked back at her captor. It was hard to tell. Both of them were panting and not moving in the darkness, the heartbeat was drumming in her ears, her breath was warm just like his. Her eyes widen when she realized how small was the space between them, feeling each other´s heat and shaking. She didn’t dare to move or saying anything.

“It´s the Marshal,” He spoke softly to break the tension “You had an accident and I brought you here, remember?” Trying to read her expression in the dark.

Nath focused on his words when the memories jumped back. The chase, her speeder crashing and her face buried in sand, the burning slap across her face and then thuds. Two dead hunters and the armored man. She took a deep breath.

“I'm letting you go, alright?” Cobb said.

She was not sure to reply or make any sound, she nodded lightly. Cobb drops the grip on her wrists and moved back slowly. He sat back and kept his distance before checking on her. Nath rested her back against the wall and winced when she tried to stretch her leg.

Cobb studied her body language and sighed. Maybe he went hard on her but she was being erratic and needed to calm down. Pretty strong for a little lady, he thought.

“Where am I exactly?” She asked.

“Mos Pelgo, my place.” He cleared his throat after feeling her murderous glare. “This is a small community, the folks didn’t feel comfortable having you around and, I offered my place, so you could rest. And dont worry, I just arrived, we are not that kind of place.”

“Which kind of place then?”

“Just a town trying to survive, not letting trouble bite our asses again.” He stood up and offered his hand. The woman looked at him for a moment and took it.

She hopped her way back in bed to sit down. Cobb stood right in front of her and folded his arms getting pretty serious. There was a long silence before he spoke up.

“I’ve been meaning to ask you, are you bringing trouble to the town?”

“I'm not planning on staying.” Nath glared him.

“That´s not what I am asking. I mean, two bounty hunters right after you, you must have quite a story for that, miss.”

“None of your business.” She snapped.

“Is my business if you are a guest in my town.” He kept a serious expression.

Nath just rolled her eyes and drummed her feet on the floor while thinking what to say and what not to say. She didn’t want to get into so many details and share her matters.

“I stole from them.”

“That´s pretty obvious but what did you steal exactly? Cause I don’t think two bounty hunters took so much trouble to chase you just for missing parts.”

Her eyes darted him and frowned. She just decided that she didn’t like this man. He was asking too much like he was a real law figure, which was rare around this planet.

“I don't know. I just took off. Look, mister, if we are gonna have a problem cause I'm staying in your dead town is fine. Just give me back my belongings and I'm out.”

“And walk by yourself in the desert and risk to fall in a sarlac pit cause you don’t know the area?”

“I´ll take my chances.”

Cobb huffed and rubbed his temples to keep his cool. This woman is stubborn, he thought.  

“I'm sorry, I can’t let you go by yourself.”

“You don’t need to worry about me, is not like you are my father.” She folded her arms and frowned.

“No, but I'm in charge of this town.” He moved close enough to look right into her eyes.

“What is that suppose to mean?” She did her best to keep it with the stare.

“That I'm responsible for everyone in here, and that includes you. So, this is what’s gonna happen. You will stay a day or two until that leg gets better but I need to know what’s coming after you.” He had an intense stare, probably the same one he had while shooting down those hunters.

“Cause whatever comes, will find you and take you down easily and, if he pleases, he will stop by the town. I can’t let that happen. So, if it's necessary, I will make you the first prisoner in Mos Pelgo.”

“Are you putting me in a cage?”

“Or a box, your choice.”

“And you expect me to trust you after saying you are gonna put me in a box? Wow.”

He sighed quite exasperated and shook his head. He was just arguing with a stubborn brat that had no interest or respect for the town.

“Listen, I'm just trying to find a solution so no one gets harmed. You are just a kid.”

“I'm not a kid, I can look after myself and always have.” She snapped again. She hated it when people underestimate her or call her kid.

“So, here’s your solution. I'm leaving. I'm not gonna follow your orders just cause you wear a stupid armor and think you can control everyone.”

Cobb sighed in frustration and took a deep breath, he was too tired to keep arguing with her.

“Fine. You are free to go whenever you want.” He was about to exit the room and stopped for a moment.

“Just don’t do something that would harm the town. These are good people if that means something for you. I suppose thieves don’t know much about loyalty.”

Her words sank when he exited the room. She would argue with him or anyone for hours but, that last one did hurt. She was loyal to those she cared or loved, but right now, she was uneasy about everyone after her crew betrayed her.

He betrayed her for what? Crystals? Beskar? She didn’t even want to open that canister again to know her answer.

Nath just curled back in bed, lost in her thoughts, studying the rounded walls in the small room.

She even felt guilty staying there, in his bed, wondered where he might sleep now. Her temper, that stupid temper always got her in trouble. Being rude towards people that are nice to her, like the Marshal.

He saved her from the hunters, patched her up, gave up his bed, and still, she backlashed at him like she was arguing with someone else.

What was this thing about the Marshal that made her angry?

She didn’t even ask for his name.

[itsjustmyfantasyroom]

Buon Compleanno Sonny!

Enjoy x

Warnings: Does talk about an attempted assault on Amanda and smut 

It was your first time to Staten Island. Sonny had invited you guys to his birthday party at his parent’s place which was costume party. Rafael wouldn't dress up, but the rest of you did. Liv and Noah dressed up like a ring master and lion, Fin was a rapper, Nick was a gangster, Sonny from the mob, Amanda and you cheerleaders. Rafael had seen the costume in the bag and he couldn't wait to see it on you.

Rafael was going to meet you guys there. He had to work that Saturday and he was running late, so Nick, Fin and Amanda picked you up.

Your costume was a blue and white short dress, with a big NY on the front.  You had white runners, blue booty shorts, your hair in piggy tales and blue and white pom poms. Amanda's costume was identical.

You guys walked into the house to everyone dressed up,

“Hey guys, you made it. Wow you’re all dressed up. You's look awesome"

Sonny shook Fin and Nicks hand and gave you and Amanda a kiss and hug Hello. Fin gave him his present from all you and he gave his thanks’.

"Where's Barba?" Sonny looked down at you.

"He's coming. The DA needed him today and he's running late. But he will be here" you smiled

Sonny took you guys around to everyone and introduced you all. You found a table and sat down, Nick going to get you all a drink.

Liv arrived greeted everyone and came and sat down at the head of the table. Noah reached for you. You pulled him off Liv and you sat him on your lap.

"So the cheerleaders, are they single?"

"The blonde yes, the other one no"

"But it's the other one I'm interested in"

"She is dating the ADA, I see you go near her and you will deal with me OK, she is one of my best friends"

"Sonny relax, you say she is taken, she is taken"

"Matteo I know what you’re like, they are all Detectives, and they will lock you up no questioned asked."

"Come on cugino trust me, it’s your birthday, I wouldn’t do anything to upset you."

Sonny walked over to Nick and grabbed him on the shoulder,

"Hey Nick, see that guy over there" Sonny pointed in the direction of the man that looked just like him, but shorter and dark hair. "Keep an eye on Amanda and Y/N around him, he can be trouble"

"Ah yeah sure Sonny, no problems" Nick gave a tight smile back.

"Barba you made it, and you’re actually dressed up, well kinda” Sonny smiled at Rafael.

Rafael walked over to Sonny and Nick and shook their hands. He had a New York Giants jersey on with white jeans and white runners.

"Happy Birthday Sonny" Rafael said and the three of them made some small talk.

"Where's everybody else?" Rafael looked between Sonny and Nick.

"Over there" Nick nodded towards the table.

He looked over to where Nick nodded, Amanda and Fin sitting next to each other, Liv at the head of the table and you sitting across from Amanda with Noah on your lap, singing along with the music to him, and him giggling at you.

"OH Wow Barba, love your costume" Liv looked up. You looked up and seen he had made a little effort. You stood up putting Noah on your right hip,

"Hey Rafi, you look great"

"So to do you mi Hermosa" he gave you a wink.

He put his hand on your free hip and lent in for a kiss, Noah hit him on the arm.

"Hey Noah, she was mine first" you all burst out laughing.

----

It was a great night, eating, drinking, and dancing. Happy birthday was sung and the cake was cut. Liv and Noah were going home so you and Rafael walked out with them and helped her put him in the car. Fin wasn't in a hurry so you guys were going to stay a little longer.

You guys waved bye to Liv while you were standing on your side into Rafael with his arms around your waist and he lent close to your ear,

"I can't wait to get you home" he purred.

You turned to face him and started to kiss his neck, it sent goose bumps all over his body, you pulled away and walked away.

"Huh, how is that fair?" Rafael groaned at you.

"You will have to wait till we get home" you winked at him over your shoulder, he caught up with you and put his arm around your waist.

When you guys walked back in, Sonny, Nick and Fin where looking out to the dance floor, Amanda was dancing with Sonny's family. As you walked past she grabbed your hand and pulled you into the dance floor with everyone else,

"Sorry Counselor, she is mine for a while" Rafael went and sat in Liv's old spot.

After far to many songs you grabbed Amanda’s arm and lent close to her ear,

“Amanda I need a break" you said puffed out.

“I’m going to have a smoke" she answered back

You went and sat on Rafael’s lap and had a drink of water. You started talking and mucking around between yourselves. Fin looked at his watch,

"It's 2, let's head out, I’ll message Amanda we are leaving" Fin pulled his phone out of his pocket.

You all agreed and stood up. You grabbed yours and Amanda's pom poms and made your way around the room and said your thanks and walked out with Sonny.

"Y/N where's Amanda?" Nick asked

“She said she was going for a smoke, but that was a while ago, Fin messaged her to say we were leaving”

"She might be inside somewhere, I'll go check wait here" Sonny said and walked off.

"STOP IT" you all heard coming from the side of the house. It was Amanda's voice.

You threw the pom poms down on the side walk and ran off.

"Fin, go get Sonny" Rafael shouted, as you and Nick ran off, Rafael following behind.

You were ahead of them both, you rounded the corner, Sonny's cousin had Amanda pinned up against the wall with his hand up her dress.

"NO, STOP IT" Amanda was screaming struggling against him.

Something took over, you ran up to him and grabbed him by the back of the neck and his mid-section, you pulled him off Amanda and threw him front on up against the wall, Amanda, Nick and Rafael all froze for a second surprised by your reaction.

"Didn't your Mumma teach you what No means" you said to him, pushing him against the wall harder.

Sonny and Fin came running around the corner and seen you holding his cousin up against the wall.

"WHAT HAPPENED?" Sonny shouted.

Nick came and took over your place. You walked over to Amanda and you took her in your arms. Rafael was filling Sonny in.

Nick pulled his arms behind him and held them tight, he still had him around the back of the neck and he pulled him off the wall.

“YOU IDIOT, you tried to do this to an SVU detective while the ADA is sitting on the other side of the wall"

"Amanda, I can charge him with attempted raped of a detective, and I'll make sure he gets time" Rafael glared at him.

She was still in your arms, "What do you want to do?" You asked her.

Amanda looked up at Sonny for guidance for her answer,

"You do what you need too Amanda" Sonny threw is hands up in the air giving his cousin a dirty look.

“Are you kidding? I ‘am your blood. You pick these people over your family, shame on you Sonny"

You seen red, you let go of Amanda and took a step closer. Sonny stepping forward grabbing you with an arm around your waist pulling you back to him so you couldn't get closer.

"NO SHAME ON YOU. Look what you just did and you’re blaming Sonny for not having your back, he deserves better than family like you. And next time NO IS NO"

"Pipe down Bitch, you’re just jealous it wasn't you" Matteo spat back.

Nick threw him back up against the wall,

"SHUT your mouth if you know what's good for you" he snarled into his ear.

"Let him go, but I want all his details to put in the system, so if this happens again we know his MO"

Nick pushed him out of his grip onto the floor. You all walked to the car leaving Sonny's cousin laying on the ground. You all said good bye to Sonny, he said sorry to Amanda over and over again.

"Sonny I'm fine, on Monday we will write statements and make a file just in case" he nodded and you all got in the car, Amanda was in the front seat,

“Wow Y/N, I didn't know you had that in you, your strong girl"

----

You guys were Fin's last stop. Nick offered to stay on Amanda's couch to make sure she would be ok. You both said thanks to Fin and got out of car and went to the apartment.

You walked into the kitchen and poured yourself a glass of water, you were leaning your back on the counter. Rafael came and stood in front of you and started to kiss your neck up to your ear,

"You looked so hot tonight. But you know what really turned me on?"

"Hhhmmmm" you hummed around the rim of your glass.

"How you handled that guy and threw him up against the wall" he started to kiss your neck again, you could feel him getting hard in his jeans. “That was hot"

You put the glass down as he ran his hands down your sides and up under your skirt, cupping your core with one hand through your booty shorts,

"Wow so wet, we haven't even started yet Hermosa"

He pulled down your shorts and panties, running his hand again from your mid thighs to your hip, making his way back to your centre running his fingers over your opening sending sparks through your body. One finger spilt in, then another. He started pumping you hard, you grabbed on to the counter top, grabbing so tight your knuckles were white. You felt close, you threw your head back, shutting your eyes, "Rafael" you screamed as pleasure ripped through you.

He pulled his fingers out, "Turn around", you obeyed without question. He undone his jeans button and zip, pushed down his jeans and boxers freeing his erection. He bent you over so your upper body was laying on the counter. He lifted up your dress over your waist ranning himself along your opening again, teasing you.

"Rafi stop teasing" he laughed gruffly back at you.

He did it a couple more times, and then without warning pushed his full length into you, you both let out a huff in pleasure. He thrusted into you hard, over and over again. You pushed back into him so he could go deeper. He held you in place with one hand on your hip, and ran his other hand under your dress, running up and down your back.

"Rafi-so close" you managed to get out.

You were on the edge, he could feel it too, he pulled his hand from under your dress and reached around to you harden clit and started to rub circles with his pointer finger.

"OH RAFAEL" you screamed as your orgasm run through you, that sent him over the edge, your name being screamed from his lips between grunts.

He rode you out till you were both done. Then fell on top of your back, pinning you to the counter.  

"Rafi" you said breathless

"Hmm"

"It’s starting to hurt"

He slide out of you and pulled you up off the counter holding you so you didn't lose your balance from jelly legs. You lent down pulling up your panties and shorts then pulling your dress down while he zipped himself away.

"That was" and you held your thumb up still trying to relax your breathing. Rafael lent in and started to kiss your face over and over again

“I—love—you—so--much" he said through kisses

"Love you Rafi”

[missholland]

Lan Wangji (mostly, his love)

LAN ZHAN! I read somewhere that this was said 102 times by Wei Wuxian in The Untamed. It feels like an understatement, cause I’ve watched the show so many times now I could hear ‘Lan Zhan’ being called in my sleep...

My first time watching the drama, I was full on Team Xianxian. I mean, who would not be? He’s the central character of the story, he’s the first thing you see within the first few seconds of episode 1, and who could resist his sunflower aura? I was not into Lan Wangji at all. I remember this clearly because I just found an old Instagram story in my Archive on the day I first watched this show: a screenshot of Wangji’s face in episode 3 and my caption was: ‘OMG how could Wei sunshine fall in love with this dry and boring man?’. And just like how Wangji eventually swallowed all of the statements he had made about the young Wei Wuxian (’I don’t touch other people’, ‘We’re not close’, etc.), I am not the same person on that fateful day tuning in the first episode on Netflix. I am now Team Hanguang-Jun through and through!

What I’ve been enjoying so much these days is watching random earlier/later episodes just to compare how Wangji’s attitude changed toward Wei Wuxian over 16 years-ish. It’s probably so obvious for everyone that he definitely falls in love first, even when the drama purposely made their early relationship a lot more intense comparing to the novel i.e. showing Wei Wuxian somewhat feeling the same way about Wangji in his first life, with the constant flirting and mutual pining (don’t even get me started...). Now that I kinda understand what the character is like, it makes a lot of sense the way he processed his feelings for Wuxian in his youth. I wonder how different he would have reacted without the push from the best brother/wingman in the cultivation world - Lan Xichen. Sure, Jiang Cheng had a lot to say about this too, but mostly out of a slight envy (I reckon) over Wuxian’s new subject of desire. But Lan Xichen sees through his brother, and has been pretty much WangXian fanclub admin since day 1. I don’t have a brother, but man, I wish Lan Xichen could be mine.

In my humble opinion, the fact that we were given 3 versions of Wei Wuxian throughout the series kinda gifts us 3 versions of Lan Wangji too in a way - the straight face, the confused heart, and the national boyfriend/husband. Considering the number of times I rewatched the latter half of the series i.e. episode 33 onward, I just want to write down all of my thoughts about the national boyfriend/husband Lan Wangji, and not just because that version seems to have the most lines comparing to the other two.

There are several details that were not explained much in the series (although shown on screen) so I have to read from the novel later on. But oh my god, the stuff I found... I never realized that the scene before Lan Wangji went to Mo’s manor where his guqin was playing behind him standing on the balcony referred to how he used Inquiry to find Wuxian. What Jiang Cheng said to him about having gone to a lot of places for 16 years and searching for someone completely went over my head in the first watch, and imagine how I scratched my brain revisiting that part. That plus ‘oh I’ve never seen you at a cultivation conference before’ in episode 41 - my goodness, because he was spending ALL of his time LOOKING FOR Wei Wuxian.

Another thing I hope would have been addressed in the series was the hot iron mark on his chest. I thought the story of him drinking wine and giving himself a mark identical to Wuxian’s was the prime work of a broken heart. He must have thought about their conversation in Xuanwu cave, about the mark staying on his skin forever and how Wuxian was convinced Mianmian would never forget him. Was that how Wangji was making a point of never forgetting Wei Wuxian? If that scene made into the drama, I would have thought Wangji’s character song Buwang to be play in the background. The lyrics fit the situation so much.

Personally, everything from episode 33 onward was perfection for me, finally getting to see Wangji embrace his feelings and ACT ON THEM toward the romance-blind idiot Wei Wuxian (yes, he totally is). All the caring touches and details played out so astonishingly. One of my favourite (which doesn’t seem to be a popular one since I have not seen many gifs of it on Tumblr) was when, after interrogating Huaisang, Wangji comfortably moved over the other side of the table and picked up Wuxian’s left leg to CLEAN THE EVIL SPELL - think of the level of intimacy this act is! Although that came after the romantic piggyback under the moonlight, I thought that speaks volume for someone who doesn’t even physically interact with his family members, and serves as a great follow-up right after he, again comfortably, pulled up Wuxian’s trousers to check his leg.

What I thought was always presented so beautifully is every time Wangji serves Wuxian liquor. The way he carefully picks up his sleeve, prepares the cup (I know they’re probably not called ‘cups’ but I can’t find another word), pours the liquor and slides it over to his partner is so well demonstrated and shows how much he wants to properly take care of Wuxian. Would you put so much effort in such a tiny mundane act if you’re not doing it for the most important person in your life? 

In a way, I feel like everything he does is making up for what he could not do the past 16 years, including remembering so many tiny details and keeping all sort of Wuxian-related things. My favourite Wangji keepsake moment, despite being a very short one, is the butterfly talisman at Yunping City which he gave to Wuxian to rescue Wen Ning. I don’t know why that moment makes me really really happy, probably because that was one of the earliest items Wangji could have kept hold of from Wuxian’s. That tells us how way long before he was developing feelings toward this little rebel. Not to mention, we did see Wangji even use this very talisman in episode 11 when he encountered Wen Chao on his way back to Cloud Recesses.

Yes, the ‘I knew he was Wei Ying all along’ while having all the swords pointed at you is highly pivotal as it’s basically the censored version of ‘I love you’. BUT, the moment all leading cultivators of all major and minor clans ran to Burial Mounds just to witness Lan Wangji standing proudly without flinch on the other side with Wei Wuxian makes me appreciate that whole arc a lot more than the big revelation in the last 3 episodes. Wangji ignoring his own Grand Master, Wuxian once again standing against every single person in the cultivation world but with so much confidence this time around - to me, is beyond satisfying. I love this arc so much so I wrote a separate piece about episode 44-45 - if you’re interested in more of my random thoughts, feel free to have a read here.

Thinking about all this, I’m absolutely in awe of how protective national boyfriend Wangji is to Wei Wuxian even before knowing he lost his golden core. They either have insanely accurate GPS, or just really good telepathy. Wangji’s constant attention to his partner (without having to verbally find out where he is) blows my mind every time. Remember how proud Wei Wuxian was having Lan Wangji come out just in time to fight Xue Yang at Coffin Town? That’s how much Wangji’s love and trust empowers Wuxian and makes him so so so secured, even when everyone was walking around in the fog hiding from the most notorious killer and his puppets. 

The one detail that pushed me over the edge completely (thanks a lot Lan Xichen) was the story of Wangji’s mom. Oh my god, baby Wangji sitting in the snow really messes with my head. I cannot believe it took 40 something episodes for us to learn about Wangji’s emotionally damaged upbringing and what shapes him into a stubborn lovebird as we know today. It adds A LOT more context and sadness to his famous phrase ‘bring a man back to Cloud Recesses and hide him’, as well as Lan Qiren’s statement ‘have you not learned from your father’s lesson’. I revisit the ‘bring back and hide him’ scene with a completely new perspective and can sense Wangji’s pain and confusion that Xichen described. The desperation in that statement of Wangji was a lot heavier in my eyes now that I understand the back story. If I were Wei Wuxian listening to all of that from Lan Xichen, I would probably have a meltdown right there at the doorsteps of the Silence Room.

Now we all know the source of inspiration of the infamous ‘I want to bring a man to Cloud Recesses. Bring him back and hide him’ in episode 25:

So after all of Xichen’s effort in telling Wuxian how Wangji actually feels about him through the tear-jerker story about their parents, Wei Wuxian STILL asked Lan Wangji WHY he was willing to seal Bichen and his own spiritual power so that Jin Guangyao would not hurt him. This dense man, of course, brought up the guilt card i.e. ‘Oh you don’t owe me anything’. I mean COME ON NOW YILING PATRIARCH! CAN YOU ACTUALLY BE THAT OBLIVIOUS WHEN IT COMES TO THE MAN THAT TOOK 300 LASHES ON HIS BACK FOR PROTECTING YOUR LEGACY? 

I know it went the other way in the novel, where the big confession happened. Maybe a bite from Fairy could do you some good, or just talk to Lan Xichen some more and then you can start appreciating your soulmate the way he deserves.

The silver lining after being deprived of an epic love confession is everything that happened in episode 50. It might have not been spelling-it-out clear as in ‘I love you’ ‘I love you too’ because of the government censorship, but it’s easily the most obvious yet emotional type of ending the production team has worked to hard to deliver. If you are still having trouble processing the allegedly ‘ambiguous’ finale, I can help with that - here. Just a heads up: it’s a happy ending. 

Good to know Wei Wuxian has the rest of his life making up to Lan Wangji. Everyday means everyday, because Wangji deserves THAT much!

[mywonuderful]

Not So Cold-Hearted Pt.17

Summary: Y/N, a member of a popular newly debut girl group and Wonwoo has what some may call a relationship with emotional ambivalent. Will their relationship remain cold-blooded or will they finally come to an agreement and become something more?

Pairing: Jeon Wonwoo x Reader

A/N: After the long await, I’m back! I’m slowly regaining my creativity but I’m still lacking a bit so I apologize with this part isn’t as interesting as it seems. I’ll work harder in the future to recover! Thank you everyone for waiting patiently... It truly means a lot to me <3

masterlist

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

“Over here, Moonbin-ssi!” You waved your hand as you walking into the lobby area, seeing Moonbin standing near the side, pacing back and forth. He shifted towards your voice before breaking out into a smile, returning the wave.

“Wow, this place is amazing...” His voices trails off as his eyes wandering around the area, making you chuckle. You escorted him to the practice room, as he pointed at every object, asking that it is. You ended up laughing at his adorable actions as you opened the door into the practice room.

“And here we are- Wonwoo, why are you still here?” You opened the door, extending your arm into the room when you saw Wonwoo sitting in the middle of the room, scrolling through his phone. You tried giving him a glare, telling him to leave but he just looks at you with a blank expression, clearly not getting the message.

“Hello, Wonwoo hyung.” Moonbin quickly bowed once he saw him. Wonwoo looked over his shoulder at him before giving a slightly nod and returned his attention back to his phone. “Sorry, am I interrupting something-”

“No! No, no, you’re absolutely not. He just stopped by.” You shook your head, trying to come up with a quick excuse.

“That’s good news.” You heard him mumble under his breathe.

“What?” You looked at him confused, trying to made sure you heard that clearly

“Oh nothing! I stopped by a restaurant on the way here and bought us some lunch! I felt bad coming after you already finished practice so I bought lunch!” He cheered, lifting a bag stacked with take-out containers. 

The both of you sat of the side of the room, whereas Wonwoo remained in the middle, as you felt his glances here and there. Moonbin opened the bag and handed you a lunch box.

“Thanks.” You smiled at him, noticing his cheeks flush as your fingers brushed during the exchange.

“No worries, it’s the least I can do.” He said, his hand rubbing the back of his neck as he looked to the side. “Plus the owner was nice enough to give us an extra lunch box! Though it might be too much for us, maybe you could bring it back to your dor-”

“Extra lunch box? Man, am I starving after practice. Thanks Moonbin.” Wonwoo suddenly raced over beside you, pumping into your shoulder as you gave him a frown on how he almost dropped your precious lunchbox. Moonbin was completely taken back, nodding silently as Wonwoo sat beside you, digging into the food.

“Did the two of you have practice together?” He suddenly asked, making you choke on your food. You quickly opened the bottle of soda before take a sip to get the food down.

“Yeah.” Wonwoo nodded, making you choke once again. You furiously waved one of your hand while the other pounded on your chest. You felt Wonwoo’s hand patting your back, trying to help.

“We didn’t practice together. We were just next door from each other.” You clarified in between your coughs. Moonbin gives a silent ‘ah,’ nodding to himself.

“Anyways, do you have any ideas on the collaboration, Moonbin-ssi?” You asked, after recovering.

“I have a rough plan. And you can just call me Moonbin.” He smiled, as you felt your heart starting to beat faster. As if time stopped, the both of you were looking into each other’s eyes. You blinked a couple of times, trying to regain yourself as you glanced over at Wonwoo who was staring right at you. You quickly turned away, picking up the bottle of soda and was about to take a sip when it disappeared in your hands. You turned out to see Wonwoo chugging down you drink as you gave him a nudge. “Hey! I was about to drink that.” You pouted.

“Here you can have mine.” Moonbin quickly said as he thrust his drink to you. You were about to take it when it Wonwoo interfered, once again. The both of you looked at the bottle chugging male with widen eyes. You started getting suspicious on why Wonwoo was acting this way.

“Ahh... Sorry, I must’ve been really thirsty. Drinks will be on me next time?” He sheepishly smiled as you rolled your eyes as Moonbin lets out a rather awkward chuckle. After cleaning up the boxes, Moonbin took out his laptop and took a seat in the middle of the room. Wonwoo was seating on the side, his back against the wall as he quietly ‘read on his phone.’ You took a seat beside Moonbin, glancing at Wonwoo time to time and whenever you caught him looking, he quickly reverts his eyes back on his screen, pretending that nothing happened.

“Alright, so I’ve been giving much thought and I found this song that I think would suit the both of us.” He clicks on the video as the music started playing. Your head unconsciously started moving to the beat, as a smile forms on your face on how nice the music was. Moonbin looked over at you before laughing, making you follow along as blushes form on both of your faces. You could feel Wonwoo’s gaze on the side of your face but ignored it.

“I love this song! I think singing and dancing to this will be so much fun!” You complimented as he nodded, excitedly. The both of you wasted no time and started coming up with the choreography. In a blink of an eye, time blew by but you were too caught up in the dance with Moonbin, endlessly coming up with different moves. You glanced at the clock to notice how much time has passed before seeing Wonwoo through the mirror who had fallen asleep, his head slightly tilted to the side with his steady breathes. A smile form on your face as you observed his state.

‘He must be really tired, being able to sleep through this loud music...But why is he here?’ You thought to yourself. The thoughts quickly vanished away when Moonbin suggested another move.

“I was thinking for this part, we could do something like this? And maybe you can do it like this?” He showed you the move as you mirrored him. “To fit the lyrics, I’m going to rest my hands over your waist. Don’t worry, I won't touch you.” He shyly said as you felt your cheeks heat up. Slowly nodding, he gives you a soft smile. “Alright, so 1...2...3...and-” 

“Boy am I tired!” Wonwoo’s voice suddenly came about, making the you and Moobin flinch at his voice. You both turned to look at the male was who stretching his arms over his head. “Sorry, was I bothering you guys?”

“Yes. Yes you care. Why are you here either way? Don’t you have better things to do? You’ve been here for almost the whole day.” You grumbled. In the corner of you eye, you saw Moonbin glancing at the clock before pulling out his phone, texting someone. “Do you need to be somewhere?” You leaned over to him.

“Ah... My members and I were planning on going out to eat, but it’s okay! I tell reschedule for another time! Plus, this is more important.” He muffled the last part, look at the floor while rubbing the back of his neck. His words made your the butterflies in your stomach to grow.

“That’s really sweet of you. Fortunately, we were able to get majority of the dance down thanks to your help so I think it’s good to call it a day. Plus, I’m sure your members are waiting for you! You should go. We’ll meet up again soon anyways.” You reassured him.

“Right... We’ll meet again soon anyways....” He repeated with a smile. Your offered to walk him out but he rejected, telling you to go straight home to rest up after a hardworking day on continuous dancing. You bid him goodbye by the doors of the practice room as he disappeared in the hall. Turning back into the room, you pumped into a firm chest. Looking up, your eyes meet Wonwoo, who was looking down at you with somewhat soften eyes.

“You’ve worked hard today.” He complimented, making you look at him with a twisted face on his sudden kindness.

“And you’ve been annoying and suspicious.” You spat back, taking your belongings out of Wonwoo’s hand before turning your heel, walking out the building. You heard his quick footsteps following behind as he tried catching up to your peace after closing the lights in the room. He caught up to your pace, silently walking beside you. You glanced up at him, seeing him look at you before turning your head to the side, hiding your blushing face. Suddenly you phone rang.

“Y/N speaking.”

“Y/N! Where are you right now?” Nari asked through the loud chatter on her side.

“I just finished practice with Moonbin. Heading home now.”

“Do you want to eat with us? We’re out right now.” You quickly thought about it but the tiredness starting growing in you.

“Hmm... I think I’ll pass. I’m too tired. You guys go ahead.” You silently yawned, covering your mouth.

“Alright, remember to eat your meal! We’ll be making sure you ate!” You heard Nari’s scolding voice through the line, making you chuckle.

“I’ll try.”

“Uh.... By any chance, is Wonwoo with you?” You glanced over at Wonwoo

“No. No he’s not with me.” You blankly said, directly looking into his eyes as you saw him narrow.

“Yeah, we thought so to-”

“This is Wonwoo speaking.” Your phone was taken away from you as Wonwoo brought it to his ear. You started tippy toeing, trying to retrieve your phone from the much taller male.

“WONWOO?” You heard the voices of your members scream through the call. “I TOLD YOU HE WAS WITH HER” A group of male voices followed after.

“You called?” He glanced down at you, not bothered by your actions.

“N-Nothing! You enjoy your time together!” Your members teased. You jumped, getting a hold of your phone and grabbed it back from him

“Guys-”

“*beep*” the call ended as you stared at the phone hopelessly. Wonwoo’s phone dinged, signalling an incoming message. 

---

“Can you make sure Y/N eats? She’s most likely to skip meals when she’s stress and tired. I don’t know if this helps but she likes _____. Thanks Wonwoo, I owe you big time.” He reads the message from Nari. Shoving his phone back into his pocket, he looks over at you, while you were still speechless and frozen with all that happened just now.

“Let’s go.” You were about to punch him when he takes a hold of your wrist, dragging you down the street.

“Wonwoo if you don’t tell me where you’re taking me, I’m gong to call the cops on you-” he lets go of his grip as you shake your wrist, shooting him a glare.

“Where here.” He opens the door to a bright old fashion corner restaurant. You peeked into the restaurant, showing a very snug and cozy environment with only a few people in it. “You can freeze to death. If that’s what you want then.” He walks into the restaurant as you quickly followed in behind him.

“Why are we her-”

“Wonwoo! I miss you!” A young looking woman comes running towards Wonwoo, pulling him into a tight embrace.

“Sorry I haven’t been able to come often.” He returns the hug, smiling down on her. You started getting curious on who this person was and what kind of relationship she has with Wonwoo.

“Guess, you’ve finally starting working out? It’s definitely paying off.” She tippy toed, her hands flying to squeeze his cheeks before giving a quick peck on his cheek. Wonwoo squints in embarrassment, his cheeks slowly flushing red. You let out a chuckle before covering your mouth realizing that it was loud. The lady lets go of her hands before leaning over, tilting her head at you while you were standing behind Wonwoo, with your hand over your mouth. “Oh... Who’s this?” She slowly spoke, scanning your appearance. 

“A-Ah... Hello, I’m Y/N.” You stumbled upon your words quickly bowing deeply. She looked at you, scanning you body while tapping a finger on her chin. Sensing the awkwardness, Wonwoo lets out a cough.

‘She looks really young... And Wonwoo seems to be really fond of her too...’ You thought to yourself.

“Are you guys closing soon?”

“Even if you came when it’s close, I’ll open it just for you.” She gently chuckled at him and brought you to a table. You sat down and looked at the menu, displaying a wide variety of perfectly displayed and plated food. The lady remained waiting in front of the table as you felt her sight cutting through the menu as you brought it higher to cover your face.

“Y/N...” You heard her call your name. You slowly lowered the menu as you were met with her eyes locked on yours. “Y/N.... From Eunoia?”

“Yes, that’s me.” You nervously smiled, trying to be respectful

“So you’re the person W-”

“I’ll take this.” He cuts between the two of you, pointing at the dish on the menu. “Do you know what you want yet?” He peers to you as your eyes dart back onto the menu, feeling stressed that you haven’t even looked pass the first page yet.

“U-Uh not yet-”

“And she’ll take this.” he points at the picture but before you were able to see what it was, the menus were taken away from you and the lady disappeared into the kitchen. You and Wonwoo were sitting facing each other, in silence, where none of you spoke. Your eyes scanned around the restaurant, admiring how effortless everything was place and matched. The scent of delicious food started filling the room as you closed your eyes, taking in the scent as a smile formed on your face. When you opened then, you caught Wonwoo staring at you before he quickly looked away, turning behind to check if the food was coming out yet.

“Here are you meals!” The lady placed down the meal. “I added more for you so that’ll make it for all the times you left me lonely.” She cheekily smiled at Wonwoo while you sat there, quietly observing their interactions. Wonwoo chuckled and returned a melting smile to her before thanking her. You looked down on your dish and it was surprising one of your favorite dishes. 

‘How’d he know I like this? Only my members and Minghao know I like this.’ The two of you quietly started eating, too mesmerized into how delicious it tasted.

“They’re known for these kinds of dishes.” He spoke. You glanced up at him, giving him a slightly nod as your eyes traveled to see what he was eating. “Do you want to try it?” He caught you looking at his food. You shook your head, rejecting the offer.

“Here.” He stuck out a spoonful towards you. You hesitated at first but then realized that rejecting it again will only piss him off so you stood up a bit and leaned over but then your eyes gazed over at the counter where you say the lady looking at you with her arms crossed on her chest, eyes narrowed at you. You quickly sat back down, as Wonwoo looked at you with a surprised expression.

“I-I can get it myself.” You picked up your own utensils and took some to put on your plate as Wonwoo stared at the untouched spoonful in front him.

‘Who is she and why is she looking at me like that?’ Different options floated in your mind but the only one that was in bold was ‘girlfriend.’ Then, you remember watching one of the variety shows where Seventeen were describing their ideal types.

‘Someone who is hard working, gentle yet fun’ Wonwoo’s voice echoed your head as your eyes shifted over to the lady who was taking order at a nearby table before jogging over to plate the dishes and run back to clean up the dirty plates on the tables.

‘She’s hardworking, gentle, sophisticated and she know how to make Wonwoo smile... Maybe... She is his girlfriend’ Heavy thoughts started filling your mind as a weird sensation was felt in your chest. A clenched sensation you just couldn’t explain.

“I’ll pay.” Wonwoo stood up but was stopped by you holding on to his wrist.

“No! What do you mean you’ll pay? It doesn’t work like that. I’ll pay.” You stood up, grabbing on to your wallet.

“Sit down before we cause a scene.” You looked around but there wasn’t anyone in the store, almost making you laugh but you held it in.

“No. At least split the bill.” You suggested but he gave you a silent shake of his head.

“Ah there’s no need to worry about the bill. It’s on me.” The lady appear behind Wonwoo, gently smiling with her hands behind her.

“Please, let me just pay for my dish.” You tried taking out your card but her hand hovered over your hand, stopping you.

“Don’t worry about it. Like I said, it’s on me. As long as you enjoyed it, that’ll be your repayment.” She smiled at you but there was something in that smile that just didn’t seem right. You thanked her and bowed deeply to show her your gratitude. Before you left, you went to the use the restroom. As you came out, you saw the backs of Wonwoo and the lady who were sitting down beside each other. Her head was resting on his shoulder and Wonwoo was looking down at her, brushing the hair out of her face. You stood there, unable to move. Your eyes were glued on them as you heart felt like they’ve been torn into a million pieces. But why? Why exactly were you feeling this way? You didn’t like Wonwoo. You don’t have any feelings for him....Right?

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