#sorry that took me so long to answe

[milkbreadtoast]

I don’t know if you’ve played ovenbreak as well so for now I’d love to hear your thoughts on Financier and Caramel Arrow Cookie….. they both seem incredibly loyal but with very different personalities

hi ty for the ask!! someone already asked abt them and unfortunately i dont really have any detailed thoughts/strong opinions bc i hadnt considered them before... tbh i'd like to hear ur(/u guys') thoughts abt them! u prob have more thoughts than me, what do u like abt them/why makes their dynamic interesting to u? ^^

let me think abt it tho...🤔i do think theyre compatible! ur right in that they r similar yet r v diff... They're both incredibly loyal, they have serious and earnest/honest/upright and humble personalities... I think one major diff tho is that CA is much more assertive, as she's the leader of the watchers, and is the one who makes decisions and gives orders during battle; whereas financier is a knight and usually takes orders, and she's more passive and non-confrontational. I think they're both v strong and capable, but in terms of actual battle experience I think it can be safely assumed that CA has (much) more... we know for a fact that she has seen many battles firsthand + even witnessed many comrades falling in battle...Whereas the Republic is known as a "peaceful"(/peacetime?) country (as in not having seen war w other countries), to the extent that their knight commander, Madeleine, had 0 prior (real)battle experience before being promoted and leaving w Espresso LMAO.. We also know that Financier is a recent graduate of the Paladin academy(making her younger than Madeleine), so it can be safely assumed that she, while rigorously trained and having fought many duels, hasn't had the same "battle" experience as CA.

I think another difference personality-wise is CA seems likely to be a bit more laid back and personable and more expressive(which u can see in her sprites)... We know that altho she is a hardworking, earnest, and highly disciplined leader, she's also very kind and warm-hearted, adored by all her fellow soldiers, who r fiercely loyal to her not out of fear but out of trust and love, sharing her own rations with hungry villagers, v quick to protect and defend other cookies... I think Financier cookie is also kind hearted and earnest, but her outside demeanor def seems more "cool and collected", more of a rigid/uptight honor student vibe... CA seems more warm/friendly/more of a people person(cookie) than Financier lol, like she'd be more likely to make small talk, crack light jokes, smile more, etc... Financier is def one of those charas whose slight smile is a rare sight 🫢(and her laugh even rarer...), doesn't talk much unless needed, doesnt joke around, etc djfjsn it's fun to compare/contrast her to Madeleine, because they're both paladins but their personalities could not be more diff... they're foils to each other in a way (it was rly fun to see this addressed in the story too lmaoo their interactions are so funny😭)

ANYWAY I def think if they got an opportunity to interact in canon, theyd get along rly well and would prob become good friends... and given crunchy is canonically friendly w financier(despite being so diff), I def think caramel would get along w her too!! Although they come from v diff cultures, they have similar values and I could see them clicking well and enjoying each others company~

[phobidawg]

i was literally just stalking ur spotify and i love ur playlist covers and names theyre so pretty, specially the new taylor lyric titled ones,, i will be watching👁👁

AAA TY my spotify is just an obsessively tended diary at this point 😭 curated to perfection 🤌

[yamikawaii]

I would rather pamper you, Darling, your happy face and love will be reward enough for me! I want to spoil you! I want to keep you away from everybody and cradle you in my arms all the time! I want to feed you the tastiest foods and desserts!! I wanna tie us together to sleep at night and shower you in kisses when you wake up! I don't mind that I don't need sleep!! I wanna watch you! And do try to love your voice, it's so beautiful, I have thousands of recordings of you speaking and I would love to hear you sing

with the only romantic love you'll ever need - Yoomtah

HHBSBSHWBDBHEBDBDBFJDBDJDJFJFHJVJVJVNNNDBBJDJCVHWHY ARE YOU SO CUTE IM GOING TO KILL SOMWONE I LOVE YOU SO MUCH

[daydreams-after-dark]

Sub Reader x Bratty Han (plus Doms Lino, Chan and features ot8). Established poly ot8 relationship.

Synopsis: Bratty Han convinces you to let him go down on you without permission from Chan and Lino. They punish you both when they get home.

Word count: 2.9k approx.

Unhinged level: 🤡🤡🤡🤡

CW below the cut.

⚠️⚠️⚠️Warnings: NSFW // 18+ content // MDNI // coercion //dom chan and lino // sub reader // oral sex (f and m rec.) // creampies // unprotected vaginal and anal sex // butt plugs // spanking with a belt // restraints // sex in front of a group // everyone cums all over reader // name calling // disrespecting reader (but it’s consensual punishment) // let me know if I’ve missed anything.

Han. The fucking brat. He loves to rile up the doms and soft doms, pushing their buttons, making them snap. He likes to coerce the subs into messy situations in the hopes of getting into trouble off the doms Chan and Lino.

Han loves to get you into trouble, and for some reason you can’t resist his bratty, suggestive energy. He makes you lose the fear of consequences, or maybe it’s that he makes you forget about consequences entirely? Until, of course you are being thrown face down on the bed, your panties pulled down around your thighs as you get spanked by Chan while Lino fucks your face (although you love that kind of punishment).

You think every idea Han has is a good one. There’s just something about him that makes you want to please him. You want to please him as much as you need to please Chan and Lino. You’d honestly let him do anything he wants to you.

That’s how you ended up here. On the couch in the living room.

“Come on baby.” He whispers, kissing your neck. Your shirt is already off and he’s cupping your breast, under your bra, with one hand, and is three fingers deep inside your cunt.

He knows you are pliable right now. You’ll agree to anything. “Let me taste your sweet pussy.” He thrusts his fingers in hard making you squeal. “So fucking wet. I know you want more than just my fingers, right?”

You shake your head. “Sungie, no. We don’t have permission. What if they find out?” you say timidly.

“No one’s gonna know. Just think about how it’s gonna feel with my hot… wet…mouth,” he kisses you sloppily. “Against your…aching…dripping…pussy?” He breaks away only to lean his forehead against yours. “You are my baby, aren’t you?” he asks with a serious tone. You nod. You are. “So… can I?” he pushes.

“Yes.” You whisper. He is right. Your cunt really was aching for him. His fingers had almost taken you over the edge, but you know his skilled and quick mouth will have you seeing stars in no time.

“You’re my favourite, you know that, right? Always up for anything. Such a good girl.” He says as he makes his way down between your legs. “Spread them wider for me. Let me take a good look at you.” He pushes your legs open and bites his lip hungrily as he inspects your most intimate parts.

“Such a pretty, tight, little hole.” He watches your pussy clench around nothing as he removes his digits. He spreads your lips apart and licks a stripe up from your vagina to your clit. You cry out. Why does it always feel so good? You throw your head back and squeeze you eyes closed as Han laps up all of your arousal that’s dripping from you. Your back arches off the couch when he slips his tongue into your cunt.

“Fuck, Ji!” you cry. “I’m so close.”

And then you hear it. Your phone ringing. You know the ringtone. Han knows the ringtone. Lino is calling.

“Answer it, baby. You don’t want to get in trouble for missing a call from the boss.” Han pauses his movements.

“I… I can’t-”

“Answer it.” Han repeats himself.

And of course you do as he says.

With a shaky hand and a fuzzy brain, you answer the call. “H-hello?” you say softly.

“What the fuck took you so long, kitten?” Lino is angry. Fuck. “Um… I’m sorry, I was just…ahhhh.” You feel Han’s mouth latch onto your clit.

“You were just what? What is so important that it took you more than three rings for to answer the phone?” Lino growls.

You can barely find the words you need. Han is bringing you so close to climax that you can feel a sheen of sweat forming on your chest, and you know your heavy breathing must sound suspicious. You try with everything you have to ignore Han and to focus on Lino.

“I was just….working out… yes…running.” You manage.

And then you feel Han’s fingers in your pussy again, pumping in and out of you whilst he slurps loudly against your clit. The wet, obscene sounds becoming so loud that it threatens to give you away.

“Kitten?” Lino’s voice tries to cut through the overwhelming feeling of pleasure that has taken over your body. It is so hard to concentrate on Lino. Han is too intoxicating. Han feels too good. Han is your whole world. Han is the only person that matters. Han making you come is the only thing you need right now. You would surely die without it.

“Hannie-” you choke and the tension inside you snaps, sending pulsating pleasure through your veins and your legs shaking around Han’s head.

“You have to be fucking joking.” Lino does not sound happy. “Chan and I will be home in one hour. You and Han better be ready. You are going to be so fucking sorry.” And with that Lino is gone.

You lean up on your elbows and look down at the man that just took you to the stars. He is already looking up you with the most smug look on his face. You can’t tell if he is feeling pleased with himself because he convinced you (yet again) to let him have unauthorised access to your body, or that he has managed to get the you two caught?

It is a rather odd dynamic, between you and Han. Han is a bratty little shit, but he is not the boss. Not by a long shot. He just loves stirring up trouble and making life challenging for Chan and Lino. Han thinks it’s fucking hilarious to get himself, and any of the other subs, into trouble. Why? Because punishment is always fun. What he finds the most fun of all is the bemused expressions on Chan and Lino’s face when, as always, you have gone along with some devious idea of his.

You don’t even know why you always go along with whatever Han wants. But you can’t seem to stop yourself.

Even when it leads to this situation right now.

One hour later you and Han sitting side by side on the end of the bed, awaiting punishment.

The bedroom door bursts open and Chan and Lino enter the room - followed by the rest of the members. This was different. Punishment had never involved an audience before.

It makes you wet, and you were sure it is making Han hard.

They look pissed. Lino speaks first. “Everyone take a seat, stand against the wall. Make yourself comfortable.”

Seungmin and Changbin stand against the wall, and Felix, Innie and Hyunjin take places on the bed behind you.

Chan disappears out of the room momentarily, returning with two dining chairs and placing them in front of you and Han. Chan sits himself down on one and Lino drags the other a little further away to the right side of the room.

“Han,” starts Chan, “strip, then sit on that chair.” He nods to the empty dining chair.

Han immediately removes his clothes and takes a seat as instructed. You are right, he is hard. You hear Seungmin snicker to your left. How fucking humiliating.

“Everyone listen up.” Chan addresses the room. “Lino and I have called you all in here today because there are some of you who do not know how to follow rules.” Silence and anticipation fills the room and you start to become nervous.

“Han, in particular, doesn’t think he needs permission to play with our kitten here.” Lino says as he stands in front of you, grasping your chin forcing it so you’re looking into his dark, angry eyes. “Take off your top and bra and go lay over Chan’s lap so you can receive your punishment.”

You do as he says, nervously removing your garments and walking to were Chan sits.

“Lay over me, ass away from Han.” He pulls you over his lap and slaps your ass. Your head dangles by his shoe and you can’t see any of the men in the room. Chan pulls your shorts and panties down exposing your bare pussy and ass to everyone and pulls your cheeks apart. “Look at that boys… Han thinks this is his.” He snarls and roughly prods your pussy with his fingers. You gasp. You are so vulnerable, and so turned on. “Lino, come look at her pretty little holes.”

Lino kneels down next you, and the pair start finger fucking you at the same time. They plunge two fingers each into your cunt, stretching you, opening you up, showing everyone how much of a little whore you are. You begin to moan with pleasure, which apparently is against the rules. “Felix. Come pull the rest of her clothes off.” Chan instructs. “That’s it, Felix. Now shove her panties in her mouth to shut her up.”

Felix comes around and stuffs your mouth with your panties to muffle your whimpers, and then he’s gone again.

From where Han sits, all he can see is all the other men’s reactions to what is happening to you. He is turned on as fuck, but also jealous. He wants to see what was happening to your pussy. He can hear it though. The sopping, sloppy noises of your wetness. His dick is leaking. He knows there’s a good chance he’s going to come untouched. His hand automatically grips his cock.

"Hey, he’s touching his dick!” Innie exclaims, pointing to Han.

“Hyunjin, tie him up.” Chan growls. “This is meant to be a punishment.”

Hyunjin swiftly ties Han’s hands together and someone decides it’s a good idea to tie yours together too. “Let’s tie here’s behind her back.”

All you can do is lay there and take whatever punishment you are given.

“Everyone. This is what’s gonna happen.” Lino addresses the waiting men. “Our little darling here is going to choke on Chan’s cock, while I fuck her greedy little cunt. Your job, boys, is to jerk off while you watch. When you need to cum, you will come up, ask for permission, and choose where you want to cum on her.”

Seungmin, another dom, pipes up. “Hey why do I need to ask permission? And I don’t want to cum on her - I wanna cum in her.”

Lino rolls his eyes. “Don’t forget who's in charge here! But yeah, anyone can cum anywhere on or in her. Except Han. He’s not allowed to cum at all.”

Your pussy clenches at the thought of having everyone’s cum all over you.

“Everyone, get your cocks out.” You hear zippers and belt buckles as they free their dicks. Chan and Lino continue to finger your pussy. They jiggle your ass cheeks, make noises of approval at how wet you are. You feel Lino spit on your asshole and spread it around the rim, then plunge a finger deep into your hole. You tense and clench, making the pair chuckle to themselves. “Innie, give me the butt plug.” You brace yourself as Lino presses the rather large plug into your ass. He is careful as he presses it in. He doesn't actually want to hurt you. In fact, everyone knows everyone else's limits, hard no's, safe words and gestures. Even though you're tied up and your mouth is stuffed with panties, everyone knows if you shake your head rapidly, that means you want to stop.

“Pass me your belt, Changbin.” Says Lino standing up, leaving your hole clenching around the plug.

“We must set an example, mustn’t we Chan?” And without warning you feel the belt hit your ass cheek. You can’t cry out, or grab hold of anything. Chan holds you still. The belt comes down again. A little harder. Your skin stings. Again. Tears well up in your eyes. Another smack with the belt. You squeeze your eyes tight and the tears slip out. The next hit with the belt is on your pussy. It’s not as hard, but the sting is harsh. You hear gasps from some of the onlookers.

“Ummm,” you hear a timid voice next to you. “Can I please cum?” Felix.

“Already?” Chuckles Chan. “Sure. Where you going to put it?”

“The base of her spine please.” Always so polite. The spanking pauses, and you feel ropes of hot cum land on your lower back and hear the sweet noises Felix makes when he cums.

“Good boy.” Lino says proudly. “You did so good.” Chan concurs. “You may leave if you want. Or stay and watch. What do you want to do?”

Felix hesitates. “I’d like to stay and watch.” He says quietly.

“That’s our boy.” Seungmin claps his hands.

You are repositioned so that you are kneeling on the carpet in front of Chan. He lifts up slightly so he can shimmy his sweatpants down, freeing his enormous cock. Chan has the biggest cock out of everyone, and you know you are about to gag and choke very soon. He removes the panties that were in your mouth and fists a handful of hair on the back of your head and shoves your mouth down over his cock without care, forcing you take as much as possible. Then he pushes you down even more. You splutter, gag, and make a whole host of humiliating sounds as Chan pulls your mouth up and down on his cock, hard, fast and rough. You can get out of his grasp if you really want to. But you don't. You love this.

Meanwhile, Lino positions himself behind you, lifting you up enough to push his cock into your sopping cunt. The fullness feels incredible. Lino fucks you rough from the get go, leaving you no time to adjust. With your hands tied behind your back you are 'helpless'. And it’s driving you, and the men wild.

One by one, they come up seeking permission to cum on you.

You’re pulled up off Chan’s cock so Binnie can cum on your tits. You sneak a glance at Han to who looks so fucked out, his dick red and angry. Fuck you want to relieve him of that.

Innie wants to cum in your mouth. “Swallow it, kitten.” Lino instructs. You swallow it all and then continue to suck Chan off. Hyunjin wants to cum on your stomach, so again you’re lifted upright so he can mark you. Felix comes back again, this time wanting to cum in your mouth.

Finally Seungmin is ready to give you his load. “I’m going to cum in her cunt.” He announces. Lino grumbles and pulls out of you, and you feel Seungmin at your entrance. He thrusts into you hard making you gag on Chan’s cock. He digs his fingers into the side of your body and snaps his hips three times and you feel him release himself deep inside you.

“I’m not sticking my cock back in there after you. I don’t wanna feel your jizz on my dick.” Lino sounds irritated. Seungmin laughs and leaves the room.

“You’ll have to fuck her ass then, mate.” Chan says between clenched teeth. He was close to cumming.

“Hmm, you’re right.” Lino pulls the plug from your ass and pushes his thick cock into you, grasping your neck for both leverage and to feel you choking around Chan’s cock. Your pathetic cry is too much for Chan and he cums down your throat. “Swallow it.” Lino says from behind you, pounding his cock into your ass with an unimaginable force. You swallow and open your mouth, showing Chan your empty mouth.

You can feel Seungmin’s cum dribbling down your inner thigh, Felix’s cum dried on your back, and your breast and stomach are sticky. You are a mess as Lino fucks into you, holding you up by your tied arms. He pulls you against his chest, his mouth close to your ear. “Look at him,” Lino hisses, referring to Han. “I don’t know why the fuck you let him get you into this mess. Maybe you forgot who owns your pussy, hmm? Maybe you forgot I own your ass.” He growls. He reaches a hand down to your clit. “Now cum for me.” He demands.

You’re close but you can’t quite get there. You look at Han again. His cock. Yes, you love that cock so much. Closer. His trim waist and defined torso. Yes, you love to have your legs wrapped around it. Almost there. You look up to his face. His eyes. They are locked on yours. Encouraging you to cum. Fuck!!!! You clench around Lino’s cock and he pumps into you a few more times before you feel him paint your walls.

Lino pulls out and plugs you back up. “I own your ass. Don’t forget it.” He says and stands up. He and Chan pull their pants back on. You look around the room. It’s only now you realise that the rest of the men have left.

You see that Han has cum untouched, cum plastered on his abdomen, but he is still hard as stone. Chan unties him. “Now you clean her up - with your mouth… and then fuck Seungmin and Lino’s cum back into her holes.”

You and Han are alone again. He’s at your side untying you, immediately licking the cum off your tits, then kisses you. “That was so worth getting you into trouble.” He smirks and picks you up to lay you on the bed.

He hovers over you and gazes at you tenderly. “You are my baby, aren’t you?” He whispers.

You nod.

“Then… will you let me?”

“Let you what? They’ve given you permission to fuck me.” You say.

He shakes his head. “Will you let me make love to you? Slowly?”

Typical, bratty Han, still not wanting to follow instructions.

You nod. “Yes.”

A/N: I kinda wanted to end this on a sweet note, and make Hannie still unable to follow rules, like if he’s told to fuck her, then he wants to go slow and tender. But… he is a sneaky little shit getting her into so much trouble.

@kangnina @noellllslut @channieandhisgoonsquad @weareapackofstrays @wolfennracha @3rachasdomesticbanana

[look-at-the-soul]

Every little thing you do- Prologue

Tommy Shelby x reader (Mini series)

Summary: Y/N has been Tommy’s best friend since childhood. She had always been there for him when he needed her the most. Now as the Shelby family are in a better position, Y/N will need Tommy’s support when something she didn’t expect happens.

A/N welcome to this little new adventure! This story started as an idea @lyarr24 shared a while ago and I just stared at it for a few minutes until the ideas started “appearing” in my mind. This particular part turned somehow into a comedy show on its own 😂🤭 it was fun and light to write, but it’s going to get angsty… thank you for sharing your unique ideas as usual! It took me some time but I’m always into giving each story it’s own time. And of course @justrainandcoffee thank you for creating this beautiful moodboard for this story! You totally nailed it!

Word count: 2,196

Arriving at the Garrison, Y/N headed straight towards the private booth where the Shelby’s were reunited.

“You should’ve seen the look in Polly’s eyes when she found out we were buying the stallion.” John cracked and threw his head back with a loud laugh.

Arthur winked at Y/N and decided to mess with his brother.

“Erm John boy.” He cleared his throat, just as Tommy gave Y/N a smirk, they were both sitting facing the door unlike John who had his back at it.

Tommy used the chance to kick his youngest brother in the shin, as a warning.

“So you think it’s fucking hilarious John Michael Shelby.” Y/N imitated Polly’s voice and mannerisms perfectly.

John’s face paled as the smile left his face and he straightened his back.

Arthur snorted and then started laughing uncontrollably as John turned around to find Y/N standing by the door.

“Shit! Y/N you scared the fuck out of me.”

“Get in here sweetheart.” Arthur called for her, making room next to him. “That was brilliant, you’ve got a talent.”

“You sound just like her.” Ada praised, leaning over the table to kiss her cheek.

“You’re late.” Tommy offered her a glass of whiskey.

Taking a sip, she nodded. “The lady I work for had a terrible day, didn’t want me to leave.” She replied titling her head to the side because Arthur was right in the middle, sandwiched between her and Tommy.

“And how did it go?” He asked over the laughs of his siblings.

“My feet are killing me, I had to walk all the way back… but I really needed a drink tonight.

“Why? Scott didn’t pick you up?” He raised an eyebrow in disbelief.

Against his best judgment, he agreed to give Y/N’s boyfriend a place among the peaky men. He didn’t like or trusted him but he was doing it for Y/N and the friendship they’ve always had. Over time, he even gave Scott a car under the condition to drop and pick up Y/N from her work every day.

“We had an argument this morning, he got pissed and I asked him to not.” She lied.

She knew how protective Tommy could get, specially around Scott. They were already past the phase where Tommy would’ve to intervene and put her boyfriend in his place, then Scott would come for her arguing that she let that gangster say and do whatever he pleased.

But Tommy knew Y/N better than that, and this wasn’t the first time she lied to cover for her boyfriend’s attitude.

“What’s so funny?” Polly demanded to know as she joined them in the booth. Staring at Arthur and John’s faces she knew, so she shot Y/N a long look. “You’re imitating me again?!”

The Shelby brothers tried to hide their amusement but all of them failed.

“We wanted to mess up with John, Pol. Sorry.” Y/N looked down embarrassed for being caught.

Polly smiled down at her, it was impossible to stay angry with someone as Y/N.

“Well I hope it was a good one.” The smile grew bigger.

Ada laughed and stood for her aunt to take her place. “You should’ve seen John’s face, he went pale.” Waving at them, she left.

“Hey you need to talk to Finn, he’s getting out of hand these days” Polly warned her nephews. “I asked him to deliver a few letters and he had the audacity to answer he wasn’t a mail boy anymore.”

Tommy shook his head and after a long puff to his cigarette, he answered; “I’ll talk to him.”

Y/N’s chuckle made him look at her. “What? Are you really going to lecture the poor boy? Tom, if I remember correctly, you answered your father something similar back in the day but worse and that caused your first fight.”

Tommy shuddered at the memory. He was so done with his father demanding favors from him and his brother Arthur, so one day he told him he was done with his bullshit and Arthur Sr answered with a curse, threw a glass against the wall and pushed him, Tommy pushed him back. Luckily Arthur Jr and Y/N were close and could intervene to stop them from getting any further.

That night, Y/N stayed with him outside until Tommy had calmed, then she asked her parents, who were neighbors to the Shelby’s if he could sleep on the couch. Y/N’s mother made him some tea and offered him the comfort he wasn’t able to find next door.

They started as neighbors, then Tommy and Y/N became friends until Tommy trusted her blindly. After the war she was the only one who could understand him.

Tommy took a swing of his drink. “You’re not going to tell him that, are you? I’ve a reputation to keep.” He finally added.

“Leave him Pol, the poor boy is probably frustrated because he haven’t had a woman yet.” Arthur chuckled at his own joke.

“Hey,” Y/N called everyone in the room, “leave Finn out, you’re nothing but a bad influence.”

John shook his head and raised his hands as if saying he wasn’t part of it.

“Oh please Mr.-I-want-to-marry-Lizzie-Stark, really?” Y/N raised her eyebrow at him.

“Tommy! Why the hell did you tell her?!” John exploded against his brother, who was already laughing out loud, head thrown back.

Polly had to look twice at her nephew, his guard was down he seemed to be relaxed for once. Since the war he had changed a lot, the weight of the world on his shoulders.

“And besides, I corrected my path, married to Esme didn’t I?” John mumbled chewing on his toothpick.

Y/N nodded, deciding to leave that conversation, it’s was funny to tease John. “I better go now, it’s getting late.”

Tommy was on his feet the second she announced her plans.

“C’mon I’ll drive you.” Tommy offered his best friend.

Giving Polly a hug, she waved at the Shelby brothers goodbye.

After driving for a while, Y/N noticed Tommy took another route.

“Before you ask me,” Tommy spoke softly, “I’m going to show you something.”

She opened and closed her mouth. “You’re so mysterious.”

Tilting his head, Tommy clicked his tongue. “When you see it, you’ll understand.”

“Is it the new horse?” Y/N asked impatiently.

Tommy shook his head and passed her the cigarettes and matches to light it. “Why don’t you tell me what happened with Scott?”

“Something really stupid, he got pissed over nothing.”

“Really? Tell me something I don’t know already.”

Y/N sighed and took her time to exhale the smoke out of the window. “He asked me to ask you for some money, when I told him that he still owed you from the last time he got furious at me.”

“But you gave me the money for that loan.” Tommy’s eyebrows knitted in confusion.

“I did, but it wasn’t his money.” Y/N explained embarrassed after confessing Tommy the truth.

It was now time for Tommy for sigh. Eyes focused on the road, he didn’t want to be a pain and say I told you, Y/N was the only person he could trust and he wanted her to trust him the same way.

“Look this happens all the time, your Mum used to pay your dad’s bills behind his back, I just couldn’t take another one yet, he’s trying to find a better job and I think he’s going to propose soon.”

Tommy’s breath got caught up in his throat, he was trying to process the possibilities.

“So… is he the one?” He finally asked.

“Well he’s my boyfriend.” Y/N rushed to answer. “I just don’t know if he will let me keep working for Lady Winchester.”

“If you need a job, you know there’s always a spot for you at the Shelby Company Limited.” Tommy took the last puff of his cigarette and threw it outside the vehicle.

“Maybe I’ll need it later. Thank you.” Y/N felt more than grateful to have someone like Tommy around, he had always been there for her and her siblings specially after his business took off and he started to earn more money than anyone around. In her eyes, that didn’t make him change, if anything he became more generous.

But Scott on the other hand, was tender and good to her, he was fun to be around, always brought flowers to her. He wanted to have his own business one day, unfortunately life had been hard and it was taking him longer to make it.

Taking a turn, Tommy stopped in front of a huge gate, the property guarded by the gate wasn’t a house, it was a freaking mansion!

And her best friend was opening the gate as if he owned the property.

“Wha-what are you doing?” Y/N asked looking out the window.

“Drive over here!” Encouraged Tommy with a huge smile.

Her heart started beating faster, he showed her how to drive and even let her do it when she wasn’t allowed to. But this was wrong, it felt like they were trespassing, she could feel her heart pounding as Tommy shouted for her to hurry up.

Following his instructions, Y/N parked the car next to the fountain.

“I wanted you to see this first…” His smile couldn’t get any bigger as he opened his arms wide and looked around proudly. “I bought this place.”

Her jaw dropped, she was lost for words.

“What do you think? I’ll build a place for the horses in the back.” Tommy explained, eyes shining.

“Woah… I don’t know what to say Tom.” A hand covered her mouth, still shocked to form anything coherent. This house looked bigger than Lady Winchester’s and that was a bloody mansion too! “You always said you’d get yourself a decent place and a big house, and look at how far you’ve come!” She felt genuinely happy for him, Tommy had always worked so hard, always found a way to help his people and those around him. If anyone deserved this, it was him.

“I’ll even have my fucking office here, and there’s a grand salon for parties.” He explained as he waited for her to step inside.

“Parties?!” She laughed nervously.

“A ball dance and shit.” He took a look around.

“You’ll need loads of furniture to fill this place.”

Tommy chuckled. This was unthinkable a few months ago, now it was a reality, he’d had the big place he dreamed of when he was a kid.

“You got a fireplace! In the tea room!”

He followed Y/N’s voice, she was now standing in the middle of the dining room.

“This looks like it belongs to a Lord.”

“You can call me Lord Shelby then.” He winked at her and they both laughed at how ridiculous it sounded.

“Downstairs it’s the wine cellar.” He added hiding his hands inside the pockets of his pants. “Do you like it?”

“Are you kidding me?” She nodded. “This is a dream! I’m so happy for you!” Y/N then went to give him a hug.

A bold movement for the rest of the world, but to her it was just natural, they’ve been friends since forever. She was the one comforting him when his mother passed away, the one to help him hold it together after the war.

“You’ll love the kitchen, it’s huge but they’re doing some renovations already, I’ll show you once it’s done.”

“Looks like I’ll need to make an appointment from now on.” Y/N teased him.

Tommy shook his head with a shy smile. “Of course not, specially not you.”

She knew he was busier now days that the Peaky Blinders owned the races and licenses. It was just a matter of time before he found a woman and got married, then this house would be filled with kids. Or perhaps he already had someone therefore the plans to get the big house.

Once the realization hit her, she pretended to look towards the window. A sudden lump installed in her throat and something indescribable pressed her heart.

“Should we go? It’s going to be dark soon.” Y/N asked, looking him in the eyes for a mere second.

Time flew on their way back and soon Tommy stopped his car in front of Y/N’s door.

Even before he could say goodnight, an angry voice called for her.

“I’ve been waiting hours for you, Y/N nobody knew where the heck did you go.”

“Slow down mate, that’s no way to treat her.” Tommy intervened, holding Scott’s death stare.

“Stay the fuck out of this.” Scott raised his voice.

Tommy felt his blood boiling, one stride and he’d finish the prick, but before he could move, a pair of soft hands stopped him.

“Tommy please, let me handle this.” She pleaded.

His jaw clenched as he saw the smirk of satisfaction Scott gave him. The bastard had Y/N charmed and there was nothing he could do about it.

✨ Thank you for your support! You already know it, but the way to a writer’s heart is through your feedback xx

Part 1

Master list

Tag list: @lyarr24 @runnning-outof-time @cillmequick @datewithgianni @cloudofdisney @gretelshelby @garrison-girl-08 @lespendy @onlydeadcells @fastfan @stevie75 @prettylittlehoneyeyesxoxo @esposadomd @forbidden-forest-witch @ange-thoughts @moral-terpitude @elenavampire21 @forgottenpeakywriter @thenattitude @winchestergirl22 @zablife @elk96 @blondie-22 @imichelle-l-rigby @allie131313 @already-broken144 @peakyscillian @babaohhhriley @shelbydelrey @shaddixlife @sloanexx @sydneyyyya @adaydreamaway08 @pono-pura-vida @thomashelbyswife @darleneslane @everythingelseisextra @kmc1989 @mariaelizabeth21-blog1 @lau219 @lauren-raines-x @red-riding-wood @lovemissyhoneybee @theendlessvoidofdarkest @wannabeperfectionists-blog @yeppaweshallsee (can’t tag) @skydisneylover (can’t tag) @holacia3 @galactict3a

@saradika-graphics divider

[bitchlessdino]

I voted for Joshua but, in my heart I chose both him and Jeonghan lol. I've been in a JeongShua drought lately

+ love your writing!!! would you mind to write some smutty jihan x reader? please

Pairing: bf!jeonghan x afab!reader x bf!joshua

Genre: humor, smut

word count: 1.5k

tags: established poly relationship, NO INCEST I cannot emphasize this enough, spanking, spitting, an*l play, double pen., sex toy, mouth fucking, throat bulge, degradation (cumslut, some objectification), unprotected sex

Summary: Just as conniving as your boyfriends, you convince both of them to get the same haircut without the other one knowing. The moment they came home, realizing what you've done, they show you the kind of consequences you've earned yourself by being a little trickster.

author note: so siblings or dating is a little thing where people guess whether a pairing in a picture is either siblings or dating and sometimes it what you least expect. So when I saw these pics separately for the first time I had to think long and hand how these two would work together, I immediately wanted this fic to be silly bc they are so so silly 😃 well enjoy!

Tag: @shiningstar-byulxx @misssugarlips @tommolex @hoeforhao @honglynights @homerunhansol @dkakapizzaboy @junhui-recs @svtup @buffhoshi @meowmeowminnie @caratochan @lovebot4han

“Babe what the fuck.”

Your camera flashed bright white, getting them both in the same frame. At this point, you were laughing your ass off as both your boyfriends stared at you unamused. “You guys look great. I have great taste.”

After dating for a year, you’ve had your fair share of pranks, leading up to countless photos and videos that haunt you to this day. Dating one of them was exciting enough, dating two of them became utter chaos. When the opportunity rose for you to get them both back at the same time, you took it.

You let out their collective sighs as you jumped around them with taunting laughter like a child on a sugar high. Their faces didn’t even look the least bit alike but when they got identical haircuts, the more similarities you were starting to see. Joshua was the first to speak up his bemusement while Jeonghan looked almost impressed, holding back a bit of his own laughter.

“It’s not that funny,” Joshua said, deadpanned. 

“No, it’s really that funny,” You insisted.

He trodded off toward your laughing figure before throwing you over his shoulder. His hand came over your ass in harsh spanks, but it did not falter the boisterous notice you were making. “Stop”–spank–“laughing,”–spank.

“Josh,” you responded between giggles, “You and Hannie look so fucking alike right now!”

“Okay. I’m taking you to bed. I know how to shut you up.” 

He brought you to your shared room before throwing you on the bed, Jeonghan following after in his chuckles, while a big and bright smile is still on your face. You felt none of the threat oozing from Joshua’s eyes but Jeonghan knew exactly what was coming and although he wasn’t as bothered by your practical joke like Joshua was, he was looking forward to giving you your just desserts.

“Say it.”

“Josh,” you moaned.

Joshua held your head down on the mattress, cheek pushed into the sheets, as his thick, long fingers plunged in and out of you. “Not that. You know what I want to hear. Jeonghan, remind them.” 

Jeonghan’s raw cock stood mere inches from your face, a sinister smile on his face. He pressed the curve of the head to your lips before he slapped it against them. “You’re gonna play dumb for us, baby? Or are you really just that dumb?”

“Hannie…” you sighed into the sheets, breath hitching as you felt a knuckle curve into your warmth, “Give it to me please…”

His pristine bangs swept over his forehead, reaching his eyes. His gentle voice prodded into you just as much as his cock teased to be inside you. “Then say it. You’re not our little cockslut for anything, so say what we want to hear.”

You mewled in yearning for Jeonghan, gripping the sheets desperately. “I’m…sorry…”

“For?”

Your answer got caught in your throat, muffled moans only escaped as Joshua pushed in a third finger, twisting them inside you as strikes of his free hand handed on your ass already bruised with his clutches. Your arousal slides down his forearms, his thumb pressed against the rim of your puckered entrance and with that, you whine. Your shallow breaths took a slow release, looking back in the eyes of the boyfriend whose cock couldn’t look more edible and perfect to fuck the inside of your throat.

“I’m sorry…for t-tricking you…”

“Good,” Joshua replied, “before I forgive you, I need you to say something else for me.”

“Y-yes…”

He exchanged knowing with his boyfriend, eyes flickering with fire that had the power to burn every inch of your skin, once having let you suffer in the throes of being blue-balled. Edging was the bane of your existence, but their way of life.

“Say how much you need our cocks in you.”

“…I,” You swallowed, “desperately need your cocks me…”

“Are you going to be a good little slut for us?” Jeonghan joined.

“Yes…I’ll be your good slut…”

“Because that’s what you want, right?” Joshua added, “You’re made to be a couple of holes we can fuck in, right?”

“Yes…I’m just a couple of holes to be filled up by your cocks…”

“Who’s cumslut are you?”

“Y-yours, Josh…And y-yours, Hannie.”

“See, it does matter the jokes you pull on us, you’ll never beat us, we own you. You belong to us. You’re our perfect little slut for us to use up. You know that, don’t you?”

“Yes…” your voice gave out, your climax coming and going, the clench of your warmth sucking in Joshua’s fingers, “I’m yours to fuck and nobody else’s.”

In that second, Jeonghan rewarded you and his girth stretched the circumference of your mouth. Your eyes, blown open from the adjustment, stared back at Jeonghan, a whimpering mess all over his cock. He let out a groan, and a hand of his ran down your hair. “What a perfect little mouth…”

Meanwhile, Joshua is sucking off the bit of you left on his fingers and his cock aligned at your arousal before he made himself known. You pounded your fist at your side, while the other fisted Jeonghan’s length so you can reach the base. Your tears ran away from your eyes in protest, burning down your cheek as you felt him enter your throat, a bulge taking shape at the column of your neck.

“Fuck, you look so good…” Jeonghan groaned.

He held his hand over the bulge, moving gently down and up to feel it form and disappear. Besides being utterly entertaining, the sensation it shot through him was I compared to anything else. Your throat was like a perfect home, taking every inch of him, molded perfectly to his shape. 

God, did it hurt, but something about him filling you, holding himself inside you, as moisture leaked from your face in a scorching heart was heart-pounding, frightful, but all the more thrilling. Jeonghan pulled out for a moment, letting you take him at your pace—a wet, flustered, sob-stained mess that gasped for beyond oxygen—before abandoning mercy and fucked you to the depth of your throat.

Joshua, on the other hand, split your divide wide for the taking, and his cock doesn’t wait a moment to adjust, just fucking your insides until he could feel you swell around his girth. He threw his head back, your ass jiggling against every thrust like dessert, flawless collapsing around his hips. 

In the midst of this, he has your toy, wrapping it around his lips to moisten it for comfort, and his saliva lubed its silicone exterior. “All your holes. Remember that.”

He spat at your puckered lip, a shiver ran up your spine, and he lathered it soft, prepping you for entry. As insurance, a translucent ribbon stretched from him and your toy before it finds plugged inside you, Joshua now in control of both your lower ends.

You shook beneath him, mouth full of cock, holes fucked full to the point you could be classified as your common electrical outlet, and you felt dirty. Safe to say it was in the best way.

Jeonghan, who has held himself back the entire time inside you, finally released his proof of sin, pouring it down your throat like a hot, strong faucet, making your body jump in response. In turn, you feel your arousal follow soon after, the buckling of your hips not bothering Joshua in the slightest, and you begin to gently come down from one high to move on to another. 

Joshua, held you by your ass cheek, hand ensuring the toy inside you takes full advantage while tugged against your hole’s resistance, pushing in and out of you between your plush whines. “That’s right, cum…cum around my cock again…good sluts can handle more…” 

Joshua pushed you against the mattress deep until there was nothing but your body and him, your thighs pulsated around him. Your screams were loud and satisfying as you spoke only in his name. His cock shot loads inside you, final thrusts taking their final strikes until he was empty. He pulled, his hot, molten cum oozing right out of you. His knees took a fall, folding his thighs flat against his shins and he’s catching his breath.

Jeonghan pulled out as well, laying himself out on your cheek, twitching on your face in utter fatigue. “Good fucking job, baby.”

“Damn good fucking job,” Joshua repeated before pressing a kiss to your side.

Clean-up wasn’t an option at this point with all the energy drained from all your bodies and at the moment it was fine, it was time to rest. Jeonghan, who usually can’t stand to be without his phone for a few minutes, retrieves it from the bedside table, seeing the screen plastered with notifications. “Y/n, what the fuck? You sent our picture to ‘Siblings or Dating’ on Instagram?”

You slightly chuckled, momentarily forgetting about that. “Oops. That I did.”

“Well, it looks like you have more to learn don’t you,” Joshua said, now fueled by sheer spite, “Good thing your ass is open and ready for us.”

[volturiprincess]

Little Brother

Paul Lahote x fem reader

Summary: reader has a little brother who is a shifter Warnings: some angst, I think there were some curse words A/N: So this was a request, sorry it took a while to get this out but school comes first ☺️. if anyone has a request, don't hesitate to ask me, I am open in doing them. There will be a second A/N in the end. Word count: 2k+

Researching for colleges is such a pain in the ass, why am I doing this again? Oh yea I want to be a Doctor, more specifically a Physician. I have been in my room for over 3 hours already looking at different pamphlets of schools that have caught my eye. I have a little brother to take care of so I have been looking at schools near La Push but there are not a lot of schools that have the program I am interested in. And little old me decided to also graduate from High School one year early so that I could have a gap year to save up money and to visit different universities. I've been dragging my little brother with me to these college visits for the reason we are close and I don't like going alone on these visits. 

We are only 3 years apart but I still treat him like a small child, even if he is already slightly taller than me. I heard a sudden knock at my door and called out for them to come in. I sat up from the floor and saw my little brother walk in

“Hey Oli, what's up?”

“I just came to check on you, I haven't seen you in like days already and you missed dinner”

“Shoot, sorry, I didn't even know so much time has gone by, I been trying to narrow down my choices in colleges down to 5 but it has been a struggle but I did eat a sandwich earlier”

He nods 

“Why don't you take a break and we can go walk at La Push?”

My eyes widen at the mention of the beach

“Sounds like a plan bro, meet me outside in 10 minutes”

He rolled his eyes playfully but walked outside nevertheless. I stood off the ground and got somewhat ready, I just needed a sweater and shoes. I left my room and went outside where Oliver was waiting, we then started to walk to the beach, it was literally over the the treeline of where we live so it didn't take long. I have been coming to this beach since I was born, and when Oliver was born I made sure he came as frequently as I did or sometimes I would sneak at night just to come see the moon over the ocean. 

As we arrived at the beach I saw a group of boys and knew right away who they were, Sam Uley's pack. I went to school with them. I even had a class with some of the members but they always seem to annoy me with their loudness so I personally decided to stay away.

As we were walking Oliver asked me 

“Do you know those guys?”

“Yes I do, why do you ask?”

“Just asking, you always look at them like they killed your dog or something”

I laughed 

“Well there are just rowdy boys, and that annoys me you know?”

We kept on walking until someone shouted out “HEADS UP '', I grabbed Oliver instantly and pulled him down and saw a football flying over us. I stood up and walked over to the ball and looked at where it came from and I stiffen up when I saw it came from the pack, I grabbed the ball and threw it back to them immediately. I could hear one of the guys shout back “THANK YOU” which I just responded with a hand signal and walked off with Oliver.

“You know I'm surprised you didn't do sports in high or middle school, that was one heck of a throw, the distance you threw was easily a whole football field”

I rolled my eyes but wrapped an arm around his shoulders and ruffled his hair

“Oh yea? Easily a football field? You need to go touch the grass more often then, but I do got to agree it was a beautiful throw, an old friend of mine and I would practice throwing either a football or baseball in the backyard”

“I remember that, I preferred to sit at the porch and read a book while you two played”

“Such a bookworm, you know thats suppose to be me right, the amount of books I have read so far in the 17 years I have existed would blow your mind”

Chuckling he answered 

“I'll take your word on that”

—-------------------------------------------------------

Recently Oliver has been a bit distant with me, I thought at first it was just him being busy with school and his new job he told me he got recently but I hardly see him at the house anymore. I have approached him multiple times but his response is always “I'm just busy living my life”. He always says it in this tone that is just bland and he doesn't sound like himself. I know I've been busy with applying to colleges and stuff but he's been like this for a couple of months now. It also appears he's been getting into shape, not only has he gotten taller out of the blue but he has muscles now and on top of that he cut his beautiful thick locks. It makes me think that maybe there is a girl he likes and he wants to impress her or maybe there is something else. I wish he would come up to me but for now I am giving him his space and hoping he will come up to me when he is ready. 

I decided to go take a  walk at La Push beach to just clear my mind from the stress of life for a bit. It has been a while since I've been here and I kind wish Oliver was here with me. As I am walking on the sand, I see a group of boys all shirtless and with jorts on close by. I knew right away it was Sam Uley's pack but then I saw a familiar figure amongst them. My eyes widen and before I even think twice I shout out his name

“Oliver!”

I saw him turn his head to me slowly and his face reflects my current face. I felt slightly betrayed and went up to the group of boys and confronted my little brother.

“The hell are you doing with these guys Oliver, I told you to stay away from them”

Sam was the one who spoke up

“Miss why don't you relax and leave Oliver alone”

I snap my gaze to him 

“Excuse me? You don't get to tell me what to do when it comes to my little brother, that is between me and him. Sir”

Oliver spoke up still with that same monotone voice 

“Y/n just go home please, I will talk with you later”

I stared at him and then I saw something else I didn't notice earlier, a tattoo, the same tattoo that all of the other guys in this pack had. At that moment I had to bite my tongue so I didn't blow up on him in front of the guys so instead I nodded stiffly and walked away. So many thoughts started to flow through my mind; “why is he hanging out with older guys, more specifically why is he with those guys?” “Is that why he changed, so he could fit in with them or was he forced?” “What happened to that sweet boy who was scared of the lighting and would come to my room for comfort?”

I sat in the living room waiting for Oliver's arrival. I really wanted to blow up on him right there in front of the guys but why embarrass him like that, even if it was very tempting. I just realized I was addressed as “Miss”, I literally had a class with Sam and he sat right next to me and we were even partners once for a stupid math project. But what went totally over my head was a certain guy was watching intensely, he was looking at me like I was the only person alive. Before I could decipher this guy's name Oliver came into my view of sight.

I looked at him with narrowed eyes,

“So? Care to explain to me what I witnessed at the beach earlier? Or are you going to brush me off again like you have these past few months?

I saw for a moment he was hesitant but what he said next was expect

“You wouldn’t understand, they are helping me with stuff”

“Helping you with stuff? Like how to flirt with girls or how to be an idiot?”

“As I said you would not understand? How could you, you are only focusing on yourself and your future, I seen the pamphlets you been looking at, and they are all colleges far away from here”

I tried my best to be face to face with him but he is at this point he is a whole foot taller than me now

“For your information little brother, I have been looking at schools near here, why do you think it's been so hard for me to find the one, and for your information you think I am so self absorbed that I don't think about you? Why do you think you don't live with mom and dad? it's because they never paid attention to you or even cared to  raise you, it was all ME who raised you. I am trying to work towards a good career so that I could give you a better childhood that mom and dad failed to give you.”

I didn't even know a tear spilled from my eye but I quickly wiped it away and stood my ground, but for some reason he huffed and stormed out of the house without giving me a second glance or anything. I stared at the door for a while until I decided to just drop this for now. Teenagers really are something else, I really wish I did have someone to confide in when I face these problems with him but there is nobody. I decided to just make dinner and call it a night already, if he does not want to talk with me then so be it. 

—-----------------------

I was getting ready to go visit another college alone once again when I heard a knock at my front door. I went to it and did not expect to see Paul Lahote there. Secretly I thought he was pretty cute, even if he flirted with all the girls at school but I just admired him from a distance and in silence. 

He was the one to speak first 

“Can I have a quick word with you?”

“Yea sure, what's up?”

“It's about you brother”

My mood dropped at that moment

“What about him?”

“Are you familiar with the Quileute legends?”

I nodded with suspicion 

“Yes i'm aware of them, but they are just stories”

I saw that look of hesitation once again, it was the same face Oliver did when I confronted him at home after the beach incident.

“Well, to some people it is but they are real you see, and your brother happens to be a shifter along with me and the other guys”

My hand went straight to the dorm frame to steady myself and Paul instantly went to a concerned stance.

“Hey you good?”

“You-your telling me, that my little brother who is 14, is a shifter, that the stories I grew up listening to are true and he didn't even tell me?”

He gave me a sheepish look

“Well the thing is, he couldn't tell you, it's a secret that is between the pack, it's to protect each other and not to reveal others our existence, can you imagine if others found out about us, the panic everyone would go through?”

I nodded since he did made a valid point.

“Yes well you have a point, but why are you telling me then, why not Oliver or Sam for instance?”

He scratched the back of his neck and he avoided eye contact with me. It's strange to see him like this, all flustered and nervous when I knew him as some cocky and flirty guy from High School. 

“Well you see I um….. imprinted on you….”

My eyebrows furrowed in confusion 

“Imprinted on me? What the hell is that? And why me to be exact?”

“Well you see it's an involuntary mechanism that us shifters go through when we find out soulmates, we have no choice in who we get to imprint on, it just you know.......happens”

At the mention of soulmates my eyes widened in shock, the guy who I secretly liked but annoyed me at the same time is supposedly my soulmate. I always thought soulmates was an interesting topic hence my obsession with Greek Mythology and the topic that Zeus splitted people's souls in half and it was mortal's mission to find their other half. I looked back into his eyes 

“Soulmates? That's insane”

He chuckled and teased in return

“Oh and not shifting to a big wolf is not insane, your brother definitely knew you would react like this”

“Well I have heard the legends for years, so it's not like `oh what the hell your mental” kind of situation, at least I knew some part of this, but soulmates? You got to admit that's something you don't hear everyday”

Rolling his eyes playfully he gave a me a smile that stopped my heart for a minute 

“Fair but you're not too creeped out by this or have questions or whatsoever?”

I chuckled at his rambling but asked him 

“Well now that you say that I think about 1 million questions came up, please don't tell me Oliver has found an imprint yet?”

“No he hasn't yet, he's still figuring this whole shifting and stuff”

I nodded along

“Good, Good, I don't think I would accept it right away thinking he found love so young, but I also wanted to thank you”

His eyebrows furrowed in confusion

“For what?”

“You and the other guys probably were a great help to him with all of this, even if I was completely clueless to all of this, he was for sure scared and confused with all of this, wasn't he?”

He nodded 

“Yea he was lucky me and Sam were close by, we heard a yell of pain and then a growl and well we knew what it was, we went up to him and calmed him down and then we explained everything to him”

When he said yell of pain, that hit me, as much as I might not tell Oliver directly that I love him, I do, I just show it a different way by being there and being his best friend. I looked up at Paul and hugged him tightly. I felt him stiffen from shock but eventually he wrapped his arms around me. He was so warm, even with the layers of clothing he had on, his heat was radiating through it to me. I felt him caressing the back of my head while I just had my cheek against his chest.

We pulled apart shortly after and I looking down mumbled 

“I'm sorry for calling you and your pack a cult and annoying behind your back”

I heard him chuckling loudly and I looked up at him with a surprised look

“No need to apologize sweetheart, we know we are annoying and I could never be mad at you”

I rolled my eyes playfully but let out a breath of relief

“Is Oliver with the other guys?”

He nods 

“I can take you to him, the cat is out of the bag already or this case the wolf is out of the bag”

I punched his arm playfully 

“Your such a nerd”

He did a fake pout but smiled while offering his arm for me to take. He guided me to his car and we drove off to who knows where. We eventually arrived at a cabin in the woods and I saw a bunch of shirtless guys running outside of the house towards us. I spotted Oliver and ran into his arms and pulled him into a deep hug. He returned the gesture immediately and I felt some small tears spill 

“I know everything, I'm sorry for blowing up on you”

He pulled away slightly to look at with slightly teary eyes

“It wasn't your fault y/n, it's mine, I just wished I could've told you about this but you know why I didn't, right?”

I nodded and wiped away his tears

“I'm just glad you didn’t have to deal with all of this alone” I turned to all of the guys “Thanks to all of you” they all nodded in a reassurance and some of them went back inside the house 

“So Paul also told you about him imprinting on you?”

I nodded 

“And he told me you have not found an imprint yet which is a relief, I don't think I would be ready to see you with someone yet, your just a little boy”

I ruffle his hair and he just chuckled slightly 

“Im 14, almost 15, and I'm taller than you also”

I huffed at his response

“Well i'm older and more mature than you”

Paul came up to us,

“She's got you there dude”

I looked at Paul who winked at me and Oliver just groaned in disgust

“Can you not be like that in front of me”

“Hey! since I know about all of this, you will see more of me and Paul together”

He scoffed but then smiled 

“Whatever, at least you won't be alone that often now”

Paul wrapped an arm around me and looked down on me 

“She will never be alone”

My heart skipped a beat at his response

A/N: My third one-shot DONE. Anyways I will get to that extended version of that Felix drabble/random idea/ im not sure what to call it, hopefully I will get it down in the next couple of days. Plus I will work on another moodboard since its been a while.

[hypostatic-oath]

Hydro Archon, Hydro Archon, Don't Cry

I've noticed a pattern with 5star characters in my game - they only come home after I've done their story quest or at least the Archon Quest where they appear. From an in-game perspective it's obviously because it takes me a while to finish the quest and I raise the pity in the meantime, however... from a SAGAU perspective, it's adorable that they only come around after I've spent the time to get to know them better.

Content Warnings: Angst, Furina desperately needs a hug.

SPOILERS FOR 4.2 BELOW

Imagine Furina before the Archon Quest. She's holding it together, like she has been for five hundred years. She's been performing her role so well for so long, yet she feels like she's already gone beyond her limit. She doesn't know how long she can handle doing this for, but she knows she must.

Late at night, she takes a break to catch some air. She's aware that she's still performing - she's alone, but she cannot risk lowering her mask, even before an invisible audience. She takes a deep breath and looks up, and doesn't even feel the tears flowing down her face.

A shimmering light crosses the sky.

Foçalors, it beckons. Come home.

Oh no. Not this. She's not ready, she's not ready! Not tonight. She tells herself she'll answer your summons tomorrow. In truth, she doesn't feel worthy of answering. What if she's not what you expect?

That isn't even a question. She knows she's not what you expect.

She knows you have other Archons - real Archons - among your Vessels. She panics - she doesn't even have a Vision, much less an Archon's authority. There's only so much she can achieve with acting. What would she do when you took her out on the battlefield and she inevitably failed?

Come on... Another shooting star crosses the sky, your voice a faint, ethereal whisper in her ears. I need an Archon team...

It fills her with dread. She can't answer your summons! She absolutely can't! Not only would she disappoint you - because there's no way she wouldn't, surely, she can't imagine a world in which you are not disappointed once you figure out just what she is, a fraud who can't even use Hydro much less be the literal Archon - she'd also jeopardize her only purpose.

She rushes inside, back to her room, closes the shutters and the window and the curtains and almost leaps into bed, placing the covers over herself as if to shield herself from the world.

She can still hear you calling.

The next day, Poisson is struck. The prophecy is in full swing. She's frantic, searching for something, anything that could possibly help. All the while maintaining the façade. At least you seem to have given up.

It's both relieving and heartbreaking.

At night, she doesn't even risk it - her windows are kept shut. She analises every report, and locks her door when she notices that she's crying, the papers she's holding becoming dotted with tears that fall despite her best efforts. She can hear the rain hitting her window, and the downpour has her feeling even more hopeless.

Neuvillette speaks with her in the following morning. If the pressure from you wasn't enough, she now also has to manage to assure the Hydro Dragon Sovereign that she has everything under control. It's funny, how those eyes capable of such gentleness seem to gaze into her without a shred of mercy. Just speaking to him now feels like she's been put on trial, and Furina knows, deep down in her soul, that she is guilty.

He presses. Poisson has fallen. She knows. She also knows she's likely crying, the mask is slipping, but she can't give up. She has no right - no right at all, to sacrifice the lives of every person in Fontaine for the sake of her comfort. She cannot afford to slip up. And that means she cannot trust anyone - not you, and not Neuvillette. So she gathers the little control she can at this time, tells him she knows exactly what she's doing, and dashes out the door.

Wait, Furina!

She barely hears your voice as she runs. "I'm sorry, but I can't answer!" She thinks, as she rushes to the top floor of the Palais Mermonia. She knows she gas no time to lose. She needs to get herself in check, to wipe away her tears, to figure something out. Where had she gone wrong? Five hundred years, searching for a solution. Five hundred years of observing every trial, hoping it'll finally be the one she needs. But nothing.

She has nothing, and Poisson has fallen.

She thought the Traveler - and you, by extension - would be the key. That by judgding them she'd have the "most magnificent trial" that her mirror self spoke of. And yet, at every turn, the blonde outlander had managed to evade being sentenced, or even making the trial as grand as she'd expected. She paces around in her room as she mulls it over. Should she had judged you directly? Could she have done so? That would've been a trial for the ages - the Overseer, brought to justice by the Hydro Archon of Fontaine, for the crime of... what could she even accuse you of? Posessing people's bodies? That had to be illegal - or at least immoral enough to warrant a trial...

She lets her body flop onto the bed, covering her eyes with one arm as she lets out a sigh that despite its overdramatic appearance, is in fact incredibly genuine. She's tired. So tired.

Foçalors, come home.

Furina buries her face beneath one of the pillows. She hopes it'll drown out the sound of your voice. She can't distinguish whether that ache in her chest is from your summons growing more insistent or from how much she needs to cry.

The shooting star turns golden outside the window, and Furina wonders if the fact that someone else intercepted it will be enough to dissuade you. She hopes it is, otherwise, her days are numbered.

No more stars cross the sky that night, and relief washes over her body, in a wave so intense that she once again doesn't notice the tears. She falls asleep like that, and dreams of rising waters.

Furina heads to the Opera Epiclese in the morning. She's not looking forward to seeing Neuvillette, but she prays that there'll be a trial. "Please," she thinks, as she sits down in the throne reserved for the Hydro Archon, observing the stage from on high, "let it be today."

It isn't. Instead of a trial, there is a performance... and though she usually loves them, now is not the time. Worse yet, she's spotted by the crowd as she's getting ready to leave. They're angry, of course they are. The prophecy is true, and what is their Archon doing? Furina performs as best as she can, but this time the audience is completely unreceptive. She doesn't blame them. She'd be angry, too, in their shoes. She knows they're terrified. She's terrified, too.

But what can she do? Her search has turned up empty. She has no powers, not really, none besides the power of persuasion and even that seems to be slipping more and more these days. She cannot reassure her people. Neuvillette no longer trusts her, if he ever did. The water rises every day with no signs of stopping.

"Why, mirror-me? Where am I failing?"

The crowd chases her out of the theater. Neuvillette is nowhere in sight, and even if he were, Furina isn't sure she could call upon him now. The time in which he acted as her shield if gone. Neuvillette is now just another of the many she's disappointed.

It hurts.

With no other choice, she runs - as far as her legs will take her, she dashes away from the crowd, and guilt tells her she's being a coward. That she needs to stand up and reassure the masses, that she needs to do what an Archon would at that time.

The notion feels almost ridiculous. She cannot command her element freely like Barbatos, or raise protections over her city like Morax. She cannot threaten to strike down the unruly like the Shogun, nor does she have Lesser Lord (Lesser Lord! Hah! Even someone known as 'Lesser' is leagues beyond Furina's ability) Kusanali's foresight and wisdom.

So she does what she can do.

Whether it is fate or simply her own feelings of guilt, she finds herself in Poisson, at the base of the Spina di Rosula. The place where all those people - her people - had lost their lives to a disaster she was supposed to prevent.

When the Traveler extends their hand, she doesn't know whether it is a blessing or a curse. She wants to run again - what else can she do? But her pursuers are apparently still giving chase, and the outlander offers her aid. She can feel your presence from within them - every time she's crossed paths with them, as brief as those moments were, you were there. She can tell that the longing in the blonde's eyes is, at least in part, yours.

She's sorry.

She follows the Traveler to the hiding place - someone's home? It seems irrelevant. For a moment, she wonders if she could sue you for invasion of private property. "Oh, what am I thinking? The time for the grand trial is over... and even if it weren't, suing the Overseer for something so trivial would warrant the same result as the first time I challenged the Traveler..."

The Traveler. The outlander whose presence preceeded disaster. They were known for solving it, sure, but she knew that the moment they set foot in Fontaine the prophecy would have already started. Was it their fault, or yours?

Furina still feels like it might be hers.

The Traveler offers help once again. They extend their hand, and the look in their eyes as they ask her to confide in them is so earnest, so genuine. She swars she can hear two sets of voices saying the words - the Traveler's, and yours. It's faint, and gentle, and pained, and carries a yearning she knows she cannot fix.

Through them, you reach for her and she almost breaks. She knows you'll stop reaching once you know the truth.

Furina, please. You can trust us, love. Let me- let us help. People from your world cannot know, but neither of us fit that criteria. Your people will not dissolve, I promise you. I've seen enough worlds to know.

She considers it.

She hears your voice, and considers it. But there is uncertainty in your tone. You're gambling, and she's a good enough actress to know you're not sure yourself. They wouldn't do it, that's your reasoning. Furina doesn't know who 'they' are, but you're placing all your bets on the fact that 'they' would not erase an entire Nation. Who are 'they'? Celestia? If so, she knows for certain that your wager is more optimistic than based on facts. It's not enough - blind optimism is not enough for her to risk it, not even from a being like you. Besides, that is not her choice to make.

She cannot give up. She cannot lower her guard. Not with Neuvillette, not with the Traveler, not with you. The Traveler urges her for a response, reaches out, and she's about to deny them, when the house's walls fall.

Damn it, we needed more time! Furina, I'm so sorry.

She feels your sorrow about at the same time that she feels the spotlight on her.

Neuvillette looks down from his seat as the Chief Justice, and somehow the sliver of pity in his eyes hurts more than the coldness of a few days prior.

She's on trial.

________

She's crying.

She's not even making an effort to conceal it anymore. It's over. The curtains have closed and everything she worked so hard for has crumbled. The people know. Neuvillette knows. You know. Furina makes no effort to hear your voice. She knows you're disappointed.

If she did, perhaps she'd hear how you're screaming at the Traveler to go check on her. If she did, perhaps she'd hear how despite everything, you're reaching out, still. How you wish to hold her tight, as she deserves. She'd perhaps hear your outrage at the thought of her being subjected to the death sentence, she'd hear you trying to tear Neuvillette apart for allowing it, she'd hear you slowly realising that the fact that the sentence is addressed to the Hydro Archon means it's not her who dies.

She doesn't witness your relief.

Instead, it is you who gain an understanding of her thoughts. The Traveler reaches for her, and she can feel you pushing through, but she can't stop performing. Even now, she's still holding it, as much as she can.

You tear through her defenses with more ease than she expected. Furina had, until now, thought of you as detached. She knew you saw the world as a stage, a story for your amusement. Sure, you liked them, but only to the extent that one likes characters in a play, right? You were, as far as she knew, exactly the type of god - or, er, entity? - she emulated. Fickle. Boastful. Using lives as entertainment, watching trials and tribulations like a performance and solving the Nations' troubles like nothing more than a game. She had not expected you to care.

Not about her.

Not after knowing the truth.

You push forward. She knows it's you, and not the Traveler, who's in control. She can feel it, the intensity with which you reach out is the same she felt tugging at her very being every time a star crossed the sky. She knows it's you who's still trying to reach her. Even if she's failed.

Even if she's not capable of being in your Archon Team.

So she sighs, and lets you witness. That is your role, after all, isn't it? An audience of one, watching an interactive play. You haven't given up on her character, even though it's not what you expected. You're not what she expected, either. Funny, she finds herself thinking, you're both more human than anyone realised.

You witness her life. She lets it play out like a film before your eyes, the endless stream of memories of growing hopelessness as she realised that the prophecy was slowly setting itself up and she was not any closer to finding out how to stop it. Now you know - the truth, the whole truth. She has nothing left to lose now, anyway. Everything is lost. She was unmasked. She failed.

You're pushed out of her thoughts after she invites you to take your place on stage. You act in her memory, but this time the Traveler doesn't speak. You barely have time to state your piece - all you manage is an I'm sorry before being forced away. She has nothing more to share. That is enough, she figures, and far more than she ever thought she'd share. She still feels the urge to cry, but part of it is from relief.

After that, she doesn't feel your presence until after the flood.

The prophecy comes and goes and Fontaine is unharmed. The flood lasts no more than minutes, and no one is dissolved. Furina remembers your words - 'they' wouldn't do that. Though she is unsure as to 'their' identity, she is thankful that you were right. The sunlight feels like bliss upon her skin as she steps out of the Opera Epiclese, gentle rays drying the remaining water from the streets and the tears on her cheeks, and for the first time in five hundred years she breathes easy.

"They're still hoping you'll come." A familiar voice pulls her out of her trance. The Traveler, alone, stands behind her. Your presence is nowhere near. They look the same, yet different, without you within. Furina can't quite explain it, but it feels odd after being so used to seeing you within the outlander.

"I'm not an Archon." She answers, a certain bitterness in her voice as she looks down, defeated.

"I don't think they care. I know you need to rest for now, and they don't have enough primos for a ten pull anyways, but... just so you know. They'll keep trying."

Furina doesn't quite know whether that is meant as a warning or as an opportunity presenting itself. They're gone before she can ask. Either way, they're right - she is tired, and she does need rest. Out of instinct, she heads to the Palais Mermonia, but stops herself as she reaches for the door.

"Lady Furina." The gentle, deep voice she knows as belonging to the Iudex pulls her from her thoughts. She doesn't dare look him in the eye. He opens the door for her, but she simply turns away. She cannot face him, not after that trial, not after everything she'd done.

"Thank you, monsieur Neuvillette. But I... I think I'll be going, now."

The now fully restored Hydro Dragon can only watch as Furina walks away. He knows she needs her space right now, but that doesn't stop him from worrying for her. He'll arrange the best apartment he can get for her, and make sure she never lacks for anything. In the meantime, though, he'll just try not to let his emotions get the best of him, lest he causes a downpour to fall upon poor Furina, who definitely does not need rain right now. If there is one thing he knows about humans is that rain does not, for the most part, cheer them up. So he holds it in, promising himself that he'll take a small break for a walk after the aftermath of everything is over, and heads to his office.

There is so much to do...

_________

Three weeks pass. Furina lays on her bed, her window open, the soft breeze bringing the smell of a night that promises rain into the apartment. She is busy, not with work, or with renovations, but with the azure glass sphere that she holds up to the light, examining it under her lamp. A Vision... during all those years, she had never thought she'd receive such a thing, much less after being pushed away from her role as the Archon. She is thankful, yes, for her newfound freedom, and, she supposes, for the fact that she'd gotten to act again. But it still remains that this bauble was completely unexpected.

Power. This little thing can give her power. She's still unsure on how to use it, and it crosses her mind that the Traveler - or you - might know. You owe her, after all, after what she did to help you out with the play... she could feel you trying to strangle the Traveler and Paimon on the astral plane and that was perhaps why she wasn't entirely offended by their remarks. Still, she had made a great effort for that play. It was only fair that at least one of you repays the favor, no?

Furina smiles softly, sighing. She'll have to put up a commission at the Guild tomorrow.

She examines the light reflecting within, and it reminds her of the surface of the sea as seen from underwater. The holder, a silvery ornament not unlike those she's seen worn by Vision-bearers, has a distinct characteristic - four fang-like details that seem to secure the glass in place. Before she can give it more thought, the first pitter patter of raindrops reaches her ears, and she rushes to retrieve the clothes hanging on the line she has in the small balcony of her apartment before they get too wet. She rushes outside, hearing as the rain and wind pick up.

"Damn it, damn it, damn it..." She mutters to herself, quickly shoving the clothes onto a basket, trying to pick them off the line as fast as she can. Behind her, a flash of light illuminates the night sky. "Oh, I am so not in the mood for thunder..."

Furina cringes, hoping the storm is not directly above. Maybe she'll be able to sleep if it's just a faraway rumbling. What she hears, however, is not the booming sound of a storm.

Furina. Come home.

You're still trying. For a moment, she forgets about the heavy rain, and the clothes, and simply looks up at the sky. Blue flashes, one after the other, cross the clouds in rapid succession. Even after everything, you hadn't given up. The Traveler had warned her, but at the time she hadn't been in a stable enough state of mins to even care, still shaken from everything that had happened.

Now, she simply looks up.

"Overseer." She answers. You won't be able to add her to the 'Archon Team'. She knows she's not as powerful as most of your Vessels - hell, she doesn't even know how to use her Vision yet. But you still want her.

You know the truth - the whole truth - and you still want her.

The next star that crosses the sky turns gold, and glows brighter and brighter until it lands in front of her, hovering above the railing on her balcony. It emits a soft, warm light, and Furina reaches for it like she'd reached for her Vision.

Warmth spreads over her body, and it feels like every time she'd looked at the Traveler with you in them, except everything feels more... intense. It's not like she's seeing the filtered bits of you that shine through the cracks in someone else, no. She can feel you directly, and she understands why they call it 'coming home'. It's warm. It's comfortable. And for the first time she can truly, honestly say she doesn't feel alone.

You're happy she's there. Time seems to stop around her, and she finds herself dry and in a field full of stars. If she squints, she can barely make out a form, a swirling swarm of stardust in the vague shape of a person. She reaches a hand out.

You place the cursor over her outstretched hand.

Welcome home, Furina.

[fakesimp]

Koninnit!

Can I pretty please request headcanons for (Luxiem) with a flat chested reader that constantly likes to confuse people with her gender (like dressing up as a boy one day and the next day she's looking like a model?)

Totally not self indulgent I think this is fun, feel free to ignore this tho! Have a awesome day/ night/ afternoon

Crossdressing, With Luxiem

Warning !

Fluff ; Crack ; Mentions of Crossdressing ; Fem ! Reader

A/n !

Haiwo ! Sorry it took a while for me to answer this.. (⁠ ⁠；⁠∀⁠；⁠) but I do hope you enjoy this ! Apologies in advance if they're ooc (⁠╯⁠︵⁠╰⁠,⁠)

➶◜◝➴

Vox Akuma

Is going to be confused.

When he first saw you, he was convinced that you're a guy !

He almost thought that he was gay when his heart skip a beat when he sees you.

He started to question himself internally, but if he is turning out gay for you. He doesn't mind.

And then the next day comes, only for him not to see you anywhere.

Or so he thought.

He sees you as a whole different person, like what in the sorcery magic did you do to yourself over night????

You were a guy yesterday, how did you become a damn sexy woman the next day?????

He's going to ask his friends about it, definitely not convinced you are the same guy he sees yesterday.

Until he finally manage to see your face clearly, you were confused why is he staring so closely at you.

"What happened to you? What did you do to yourself??"

"Uh? Elaborate???"

"I was convinced that I was gay."

"?????????? "

But after knowing you can be both handsomely hot, and be sexy woman-

He's such a sucker for you, you know how he is with ike? Yeah, but to you instead.

Mysta Rias

He was amazed how cool you looked when he first sees you.

He would steal glances at you.

Would also be confused why is his heart beating so fast for a guy?

Is he gay now? What-

The next day comes, when he walked pass you, he stopped.

He turned around and stared at your back, confused.

Your face seems familiar, at first he thought that you had a twin.

He had that thought almost a week until one day, he asked you about it

"Hey, where's your twin?"

"Twin??? What in the actual- I'm the only child in the family, what makes you think I have a twin?"

"Huh????? Then, what happened to you- the dude? Wha???"

"Ah.. About that."

He listened to you throughout the explaination about the crossdressing you do

He would definitely be amazed but still confused, at least you manage to explain to him that you're born as a female.

Don't worry, he's taking his time to get used to you changing your, ...gender? No, fashion?

"I really need to get used to you being both a guy and a woman."

"You'll manage."

Luca Kaneshiro

This man.

He noticed, but he won't say anything about it. For now.

He would just go on with the day like usual, talking and joked around with you and his friends.

Till one day he asked about it,

"Say, why do you, uh keep changing your fashion ?"

"What? ...Oh, just for fun you know"

"You're changing yourself from men to women for fun???? Pog!"

It doesn't really bother him honestly, he cheers you on for it !

Wouldn't ask much about it since you seems happy with what you're doing so it doesn't really bother the man

Unless something happened that made you uncomfy, he'll come and save the day ! Like a golden boi he is.

"What's wrong? Did something happened? Don't worry! I'll fight them off if somebody pick up on your fashion!"

Ike Eveland

It would genuinely surprise him.

But he'll definitely support you ! As long as you're happy with what you're doing

He'll never judge you for it !

Though it would take sometime for him to get used to your fashion changes, but he will. Don't worry.

He's lowkey want to help you with it, but too shy to ask for it.

But if you actually asked his help, he's going to feel ecstatic about it

"Hey Ike? Can you lend me a hand?"

"M-my help? Sure! I'll do what I can!"

"Though... May, I ask you something? ..Why is it that you, like to dress yourself, as a boy? Oh! You don't have to answer me if that question made you uncomfortable!"

He's a good boy, he'll listen to your explanation if you do answer him

He'll apologize if you said that it is a bit of a sensitive topic

"Me? Oh I don't mind with you dressing up the way you are, as long as you're happy with it!"

Shu Yamino

Is questioning it but won't ask you about it

He'll probably keep quiet about it until you bought the topic up yourself

Even if the curiosity are eating him up, he doesn't want to intrude on your private life

If he finally got the chance, he'll shyly ask you about it

"Hey, ...sorry if this sounds offensive to you, but, I was wondering.. why, do you like to dress yourself like this?"

"Hm? Why do you ask?"

"O-oh! I was just, uh, a bit curious about it.. though you don't have to answer me if it's, a bit, uncomfortable for you to answer.."

He's genuinely curious, why would you dress yourself the opposite gender

And no he's not going to judge you about it, he'll definitely lend a hand if you need help

So don't be shy to ask for his help ! He'll try his best to help you !

"Oh! Hey, what's up? Hm? You need help? Sure, I'll help you, what do you need?"

©fakesimp . 2023

A/n !

THIS TAKE WAY TOO LONG IT HAS BEEN SITTING IN MY DRAFTS FOR WAY TOO LONG I'M SO SORRY HUUU (⁠ ⁠≧⁠Д⁠≦⁠) ;;

[starrclown]

Curious, why is Velvette more heavy set with stretch marks? I'm all for body diversity, but I don't know if it works with Velvette, that's just me.

Sorry this took so long, I saw this but I genuinely forgot about it.

I made Velvette more heavy because I wanted her to overcome the challenge of being a plus sized girl in fashion. Takeit from me, a plus sized person, fashion for people like me isn't inclusive. Fashion is directed towards skinny people and while some clothing is directed towards chubby people, we don't get alot. Obviously the fashion industry has gotten more inclusive but still. Look at any video about plus sized modles on tiktok, it's disgusting how we treat fat people in fashion.

Velvette is someone who is very confident in her body. She refuses to let people make her feel ashamed of her body. When she was alive she strived to make fashion for plus sized people. I wanted her to be chubby because she knows she beautiful and she wants fashion that shows that.

I hope this answed your question and when I get done with Velvette's design, I hope you like it!

- ⭐️StarClown⭐️

[ellatoone7]

No better time than the present (Ella Toone x Reader)

Ella was tired, her bones felt heavy as she trudged through the snow to get to her favourite cafe. Training had been kicking her ass lately as the team prepared for the champions league. The new popularity she had gotten from the Euro’s had also kept her on her feet recently and all she wanted to do was sit down with a cup of hot chocolate and take a moment to breathe.

She was meeting Alessia who had not been training, she was still recovering from her ankle injury and was trying to enjoy her time off. The chimes of the bell rang in Ella’s ears as she walked through the familiar doors, she immediately spots her blonde best friend and gives her a small wave.

“Long time no see!” Alessia stood up to greet her friend, “We literally live together, Less.” Ella lets out a sigh of relief as her best friend's arms scoop her up into a warm hug. “Did you come straight from training?” Alessia questions as she feels the cold seeping off Ella, “Yup, It was another tough one tonight.” Ella hated winter training, she couldn’t stand the cold as it nipped at her skin or the burning of the cold air when she was made run suicides.

Alessia rubs her hands up and down her arms, “Winter training is the worst!” Ella smiled at her best friend gratefully before they both took their seats. “Have you ordered yet?” Ella asks while shedding her layers, “Nope, just got here two seconds before you.” Alessia answers as she goes to stand up Ella grabs her arm, “Sit. I got it, two hot chocolates?” Alessia nods before slumping back into her seat, throwing her friend a smile.

Ella returns it before walking up to the counter, it wasn’t busy so she just went straight up. Ella was familiar with all the staff, this was a place her and Alessia came to often. Instead of being met with Joan’s kind smile she was met with your bright blue eyes that rivalled her best friend’s. Her breath caught in her throat as she took you in, you were absolutely stunning and Ella couldn't tear her eyes away from you.

“....are you okay?” Ella was snapped out of her trance by your soft voice and confused smile, she cleared her throat awkwardly, “I-I…Hey…hi…sorry…i’m good just…anyway,” Your giggle interrupted her and she swore her heart leaped out of her chest. “Could I have two hot chocolates please?” The tips of her ears burned red as she pathetically stuttered out her order. “Only cause you said please.” You threw her a teasing wink as she blushed even harder. 

“That will be 8.00 please.” Ella nods as she searches her pockets for money, “Just give me a minute, I can never find my wallet in these pants.” She chuckled out as her movement got more frantic, “You know what? Don’t even worry about it, Its on the house.” You flash her a kind smile while preparing her order, “You a regular?” You quickly try to change the subject before Ella can even protest, with a defeated sigh Ella nods, “Yeah, we normally come in when we don’t have training.” 

“Training?” You ask, “Yup, we play football for Man United.” Ella subtly brags hoping you’d be impressed or maybe even recognise her and be flustered, “Ugh, bad choice of team.” That was not an answer Ella was expecting, she scoffs, “What’s wrong with Man U.” You shrug your shoulder, “Just not a fan.”

Ella sighs disapointedly before asking you the dreaded question, “What team do you support then?” She leans on the counter awaiting your answe, “Men or Women?” Ella’s contorts in surprise as you place one of the hot chocolates she ordered, “Men?” You smile proudly, “Liverpool, born and raised.” Ella rolls her eyes in disgust, “Of course it is.” You giggle before throwing her a teasing glare.

“What about Women?” Ella asks once again bracing herself for the answer, “Arsenal.” Ella is surprised again as she straightens her posture, “Do you mind me asking why you support arsenal?” You shoot her an obvious look, “Cause, they are cleary the best…plus Leah Williamson is so fine, it hurts.” Ella’s eyes bulge out if her head before belting out a laugh, “That seems to be a common theme with her.” 

“You know her!” You practically squeal as you place the second cup down, “Know her? Try being her good mate.” It was your turn to be surprised, “So, you’re a big time soccer player then?” Ella nods suddenly very pleased with herself, “Will have to look out for you…” The midfielder realises your waiting for her name, “Ella…Ella Toone.”

She sticks her hand out, you grab it and Ella swears she feels a shock run through her veins, “Nice to meet you, Ella Toone. Enjoy your drinks, you’re a cute couple.” You gesture over to Alessia who’s scrolling through her phone, Ella chokes on her drink as she tries to splutter out that Alessia was just a friend but you had already left.

Ella drags over to Alessia before throwing herself into the chair with a huff, “I’m guessing you didn’t get her number, was she straight?” Ella grumbles at her best friend’s teasing, “Worse…she thought we were dating.” Alessia’s laugh rang through the cafe as Ella tried to calm her down before you noticed. “Me and you…” Alessia couldn’t breath as a tear fell down her cheek.

Ella didn’t see you again, she kept glancing back hoping to catch a glimpse of you but you must’ve been on break because there was no sign of you.

…

Ella came back every single day hoping she would have the chance to explain the situation and maybe ask you out on a date. Day after day you weren’t there, eventually Ella asked Joan about your absence, “Hey, Joan.” The old ladies kind smile always warmed Ella’s heart, “Ella, love! It’s great to see you. You don’t normally come in on Wednesday.”

“I know, it’s been a crazy few months!” Joan laughs lightly, “I bet. What can I get you, darling?” Ella holds her breath, “I was just wondering would you know anything about the new girl.” Joan steps back to think for a few minuted, “Ah! Yes, she’s an absolute dote. Just started last Friday.” Ella nods, a smile building on her face, “Yes, that’s her. Do you know when she’ll be working next?” Joan shoots the younger girl a knowing look, “Well, she’s on holidays until Thursday, her next shift would probably be Friday.” 

Ella bites back a victorious cheer as she profusely thanks Joan. Just as she turns to leave Joan gently takes her hand, “She’s a lovely girl, you would both make a good pair.” Ella blushed but sends joan a grateful smile anyway.

Ella rushes home to update Alessia excitedly.

…

Friday comes around and Ella nervously sits in her car, she reherases the speech she’s planned over and over again before getting out of the car. The bell rang again, it was quiet in the little cafe. Ella excitedly looked up but wasn’t met by your glistening smile or breathtaking eyes, instead she was met with creepy Fred’s dark eyes.

Fred was fascinated by Ella and always tried to ask her out, Ella would always tell him that she was in fact not even remotely interested in men, but he was convinced he could ‘change’ her. Ella was even more disappointed than usual seeing the tall man, nevertheless she didn’t want this trip to be a waste so she begrudgingly ordered of creepy Fred and went through the same thing they always go through.

After texting Alessia the news, Ella thought it was time to go home, she was slowly losing hope that she would see you again. With one last sigh she got up and dumped her cup, slowly walking our the door before she heard your voice, “Fred, I told you to put cups in the sink.” Ella whipped around as soon as she heard your voice, a smile lit up her face as she walked up to where you were clearing tables.

You hadn’t noticed her so she awkwardly clears her throat while stepping from foot to foot, a nervous habit she had always had. You turned to face her, a surprised smile gracing your face, “Well if it isn’t miss big shot.” Ella’s ears burned again as she chuckled, “In the flesh.” 

“Back for my famous hot chocolate already, I would’ve given you atleast a week.” You nudged her gently before leaning against the table ignoring Fred’s protests. “What can I say, you’re way better than Fred.” You scoff before rubbing your forehead, “Don’t get me started on that headache.” Ella bit her lip as you were surrounded by silence, you pick your tray back up throwing her a cheeky glance before continuing your job of cleaning the table.

Ella panicked momentarily, not wanting the conversation to end, she blurted out, “I can’t get you out of my head!” Your face contorts with shock as you slowly turn to face her, “...thanks.” You croak out confusedly. Ella mentally facepalms, scorning herself for messing up the chance, “I’m not sure your girlfriend would be too happy about that.”

Ella quickly remembered the mix up, “That wasn’t my girlfriend, it was just my best friend. I actually currently have my eye on someone but I’m not sure if they like me back.” The confused look was replaced by a soft one as you bite back a giggle at the girls rambling.

“I’m sure Fred likes you, Ella!” You laugh as you watch Ella’s face twist with disgust, she gently kicks your leg on retaliation, you calm down as you step towards her. “On a more serious note, I think you should ask this someone on a date.” Ella’s nerves melt away, “Yeah?” You giggle as a blush creeps up your face, “Yeah.” 

Ella nods before turning around a pretending to walk away, you let out an offended scoff as she turns back to shoot you a cheeky smirk, she saunters back up to you, “Hi, would you please go on a date with me?” You pretend to think about it, “I’m not sure i could ever date a Man United player.” Ella hums before snapping her fingers, “I’ll invite Leah Williamson.” You don’t even hesitate, “Done!” Ella shakes her head in disbelief while you laugh gently.

“Yes.” You mutter quietly, Ella glances up with a child like grin, “I’d love to go on date with you, Ella.” Ella can’t even try hide the smile that sits on her face as she lets go of the breath she’s been holding, “How about now?” You glance up at her, “What?” Ella pulls a chair before taking your hand and sitting you in it. 

“I’m going to have my hands full with you, aren’t I.” You sigh as Ella asks Fred to make two hot chocolates, “Yes, you are.” You snort as you watch her take the seat opposite you, you can hear Fred grumbling behind you but neither of you care.

“Just so you know, I don’t kiss on the first date.”

“We’ll see about that.”

[praisethegabs]

middle of the night

pairing: leon kennedy x f!reader

word account: 3k

tags/warnings: inspired by 'middle of the night' by elley duhé, angst (maybe?), use of the pronoun 'she/her', soft smut

summary: "just call my name like you'll need me"

author's notes: english isn't my first language, so I apologize if you find anything wrong, plus I wrote this because I couldn't stop listening to this song, and I just wanted to read something based on it. since I'm working on a side project with Leon, I decided to write with him. plus, again, i wrote with the third person because I'm used to writing like this. Maybe i'll turn this into miniseries. Who knows? Enjoy xx

It was the middle of the night, like usual.

The wind was cold, and the night was dark, with soft mists around. Leon made his way through the door, making sure no one was around, although he knew no one was awake at the time. His job offered some privacy, even though he hated coming home so late. Especially during cold and darkest nights like this one. The worst part was no one was waiting for him, no one would be laying on his bed, and he had no one to come home to. He felt like he didn't belong to anyone. And that feeling was killing him inside.

And the reason he felt like that was that he lost the only person he truly cared about. And he remorses that every day, every night.

It was true his job took everything from him and left him with no other choice but to follow a lonely life. And he hated himself for letting her go away. Once he reaches his bedroom, he sat down on his bed, thinking about his life choices; Leon felt terrible. He couldn't stop reminding himself it was his fault, and he had to live with that. The guilty was consuming him from inside, and God, how badly he wanted to make things right.

He glanced at the clock next to his bed and wasn't surprised when he saw what time it was. He sighed heavily before laying down, staring at the roof, tormented by his thoughts. Leon didn't want to close his eyes, didn't want to see the same nightmares he had every night. Remorse and guilt.

After fifteen minutes, he finally decided what he needed to do. The blonde then takes his brown jacket from his closet and the keys from his car, driving to her home. Leon felt the urge to see her, just to talk to her and make sure she would listen to what he had to say. All Leon needed right now was to stay in her presence. He was craving for her.

When he saw her house, his heart almost skipped a beat. Leon noticed his sweaty palms and his heavy breath. Of course, the blonde agent knew he was nervous. The last time they both saw each other was six months ago and suddenly, he thought it was a terrible idea, but it was too late to go back, his legs were leading him to the door. His hands knocked softly and after a few minutes, the noise of someone walking inside reached him. And the door opened.

"Leon? What on earth are you doing here?" her voice is soft but implies she was sleeping, as a normal person would.

"I'm sorry... I... I just needed to see you" Leon said, his voice trembling.

"And you couldn't wait until morning? What time is it?" she asks again, yawning.

"Look... I... I'm sorry" Kennedy whispered, his voice breaking.

"For what, exactly?" The woman raises an eyebrow, confused.

"Everything"

She glances at him, confused. It was true he was the one who broke up and left. But now, he was standing there looking the same as he did the day he said goodbye. Although, she could see some new scars and red lines on his blue eyes. She could tell by his appearance he didn't rest at all. And she doubts he would.

"Look, Leon, I don't think now it's the best time for talking... it is the middle of the night and I'm tired... I'm sure we can talk later" she yawned again.

"Can you, please, let me talk to you? I won't take long, promise" he insists, sighing.

"You won't let me go to bed, aren't you?" there is a slight smirk on her lips.

"I hate the fact that you know me so well" Leon answered, smiling softly.

"Just get in here, it's cold outside"

The first thing he noticed was that her place didn't change at all. It was exactly how he last remembered, although he could see she changed the furniture a little. He sat on her couch, his palms still sweaty, his heart beating faster and faster inside his chest. It was a stupid idea. He could've waited until morning. He could've called her and asked, but oh God, he felt so desperate. His attention is broken when Leon realizes she's holding a cup of coffee, waiting for him to look at her.

"So... wanna tell me why you decide to show up at my doorstep in the middle of the night?" her voice asks softly, the same tone he loved to hear calling his name.

"I just couldn't handle things anymore. I can't stop thinking about what happened six months ago... why I left you and... how much I miss you" Leon said, clearing his throat.

But she didn't say anything. He felt guilt running through his body again; all she did was stay quiet, observing him with undying attention.

"I know I fucked up, and ever since I have to wake up every morning and face the fact that I'm an asshole. I feel like shit for everything I did to us... for letting you go like you mean nothing to me"

It was visible Leon was suffering, and he was being honest with his words. Truly honest. She knew he was broken into thousands of pieces, the same way she was shattered inside. Took a while to heal that wound in her chest, and now, he was there, telling her how sorry he was. It felt like walking on flaming pieces of broken glass. She had to fight herself to keep her hands down; how badly she wanted to touch him, how badly she missed him. Leon was like a drug, and she was so addicted to him. It wasn't healthy anymore.

"Every night when I return from work, I wish I could summon you, so you could come to me and stay there like we used to do" Leon kept talking. He needed to get it out of his chest. "Every night I have this same nightmare, I can see myself losing you over and over and over again... and it doesn't look better when I wake up because it is true. I just... I just can't live like this anymore"

All she saw was a broken man who needed to be healed. All she saw there was the love of her life suffering from something he did; although she wanted so badly to have him wrapped around her arms, she couldn't. She knew the lines between them, and crossing those said lines was a risk. But, deep down, she wanted it so desperately.

"You never told me why" her voice sounds hoarse.

"I know, and I blame myself for this. The truth is, my job doesn't allow me to live a normal life. I'm always somewhere else, fighting against maniacs, terrorists, and bioweapons. At this point, I just don't know if our government is entirely right anymore..." Leon sighed heavily, running his hands through his blonde hair. "And one day, I realized that... if I kept doing what I do, I would lose you. And this mere thought made me shiver. I couldn't lose the only thing I truly cared about. "

"So you did the only thing you thought was right... you decided to break up with me and... try to live with it" she concluded, shaking her head as she saw him nodding in response. "I'm surprised, I didn't expect that."

"I'm an asshole, I know." Leon smirks, realizing how silly he was.

"I wouldn't say that, but it is true... you acted like an asshole. You left when you could've just told me the truth, Leon. "This time, she smirks gently. "You know, you always said that the rookie cop inside you died that day in Raccoon City. I think that's not true"

"Why would you think that?" he raised an eyebrow, glancing at her.

"You protected me from your job, as your rookie cop version did those years ago. I think he is alive in there, deep down inside you" she explains, now smiling. "And I know it's true because I see him every time I look at you"

His cheeks slightly turn red as she says that. It was also true; that night, during the outbreak, she was helpless, and for sure, she would die if it wasn't for him. Leon saved her and tried his best to keep her safe from the zombies, even when he got shot in the shoulder. He carries the scar, a terrible souvenir from the night he almost died, and also the night he met the love of his life.

"I never asked what happened to you after Raccoon City, but I knew something was changed. I knew the training you went to was heavy, I saw your bruises and every time you tried to hide them from me... I knew something was going on, and it killed me when you didn't tell a thing about it" she sighed, looking at his beautiful blue eyes. "So after a while, I thought it was for the best to not think about it, even though I knew you were broken inside"

Leon was completely shocked by her words. He could expect anything from her, but not this. It was like someone threw cold water on his head. She knew all along and yet, she never did anything. And instead of staying by her side, all he did was leave her alone. I'm a complete asshole, Leon thought.

"You're a complete mess. You go away fearing someone will hurt me, but you can't see the only person who did that were you... then you come back and make me feel burning flames and crashing waves wash over me like they're some kind of hurricane... feelings that I fought to bury inside me" she says next, looking deep down in his eyes. "Do you think this is fair, Leon? Do you think it is fair to come here in the middle of the night to tell me all of this?"

"To be fair, I was so desperate to see you that I didn't realize it was a terrible idea until you opened the door. And I know I can't ask anything from you. All I wanted was to see your face one last time. " he stands up, ready to leave. "Now I did that, maybe I should go home. I've taken enough of your time"

"You can stay here for tonight. It's late, better not to drive, especially when you look tired like this. You can go in the morning, besides it's a cold night" she suggests, standing up next to him. She could smell his cologne, and oh good God, she missed that.

"Are you sure? I don't want to bother you more than I did" his cheeks were so red this time that he avoided looking at her.

"Don't worry... you can stay if you want... I still have your old pajamas, maybe they still fit... you got much bigger from the last time I saw you" she looks at his arms, biting her lower lip.

"You what?" the blonde asks, visibly surprised, but all she did was smile again.

And it was true, his old pajamas were in her drawer, and Leon could notice she still had a picture of them together. And the memory of the day he left came to his mind like a train disheveled; it was a surprise to see she kept his belongings. He thought she had tossed it all away after their breakup. It was night when he came back from work and she was there waiting for him like she always did and when he stepped inside their home, all he did was look at her bright eyes and tell her he needed to go away, that they could no longer continue with that relationship. And like the cold wind, he left.

Six months passed by and she still had his old pajamas and a beautiful picture of them, when she hugged him for a lovely Christmas photo; he was wearing a red sweater with a big Christmas reindeer and a red hat like Santa. She then jumped on his back and took the photo, kissing his cheek. That memory drifted in his mind, like a wave.

"You still have that?" he asks, picking up the picture.

"Yep. I couldn't throw it away... it is a pretty picture of us, a good memory. " her voice sounded sad for a moment.

"I still have our photos too... they remind me every day of what I've lost. " Leon sighed, leaving the said picture in the same place he picked up.

"You sounded a little masochist, not gonna lie" she laughs, sitting on her bed, looking at her ex-boyfriend. He glanced at her, smirking. "Although, I'm right here... and even though we're not together anymore, I think we can still be friends"

"You are too kind, I don't deserve you" Leon sat next to her, his hand slowly reaching hers. His heart started to beat faster inside his chest.

She then looks straight into his blue eyes. All she felt at that moment was a heated wave, burning her from inside. It entered her veins like poison. This was the effect he had on her, and the worst part of that was he knew. He always knew how her body craved entirely his touch, how her own body seemed to lose all the sense of wisdom. It felt like he had control of every part of her, and he knew that.

"I guess I'll sleep on the couch" Leon said, noticing her sudden silence.

"Yep, that's right" she nodded, feeling her cheeks turning red.

"I'll be going then. It's late, and you need to rest, anyway." Leon stands up, grabbing the blankets and the pillow.

"Good night, Leon" her voice sounded nervous for a bit. It was the result of the effect he still had on her.

Once he left her bedroom, she sighed heavily. It was a surprise to see him standing there so beautifully, glowing like a piece of the sun himself. All his grace, all the feelings he made her feel again, washing inside like the sea. It was like Leon was poetry she loved to read, the lines she could drown into and never get back to the surface. He was the sun that touched her skin and made her entire body shiver.

It was hard to resist that beautiful blue eyes, the same eyes that reminded her how happy and graceful life could be. Those eyes glow like a rare diamond and say everything his lips can't. She felt butterflies in her stomach, the same feeling when she saw him for the first time in Raccoon City.

She was so scared, and when her eyes found him, all she felt was an instant calm inside, like everything would be fine. And it was right. Everything made sense. They just used to belong to each other, Leon was her safe place, where she could run when she felt hopeless or afraid. She knew he was hers.

In the living room, he sat on the couch and started to think about their conversation. He couldn't help but smile, feeling a relief getting out of his shoulders. After six months of agony and suffering, he could at least sleep in peace. Leon removed his shirt, and when he grabbed the old gray shirt from his pajama, he saw her standing there, walking towards him, with a confident look in her eyes.

"I thought you were sleeping" his voice sounded a little hoarse.

"I can't, not when I know you're so close to me" she says, getting much closer to him, his breath reaching her face.

"Look, I can go home if you want" Leon replied, noticing how she glanced at him. It was pure desire.

"Do you still love me, Leon?" her question makes his heart beat faster inside his chest, and he knew for sure it would rip apart his skin and jump outside.

"I never stopped loving you" his voice is low and deep.

Her hand reaches his and gently, and she pushes him toward her bedroom. She didn't waste any time before pulling her lips into his like she needed that for her good. He felt a desire. He needed to have her all by himself, like his body was desperate for her touch. Sweet Jesus, how he missed her.

In the darkness of the room, the moon cast faint silver rays, like poetry dancing over their bodies, wrapped in whispering desires. She was the churning ocean, its waves crashing in melody, and he was the daring navigator who yearned to explore every curve and cove of her being. Her hands, like rose petals, sought the perfect encounter, sliding like ballerinas in a secret rhythm. The intertwined fingers, like branches of an ancient tree, explored hidden paths, deciphering mysteries written in the stars.

Their lips met in a sweet cosmic collision, like meteors in love in a starry sky. The kiss, a forbidden verse, told a story only they knew, a poem of lust and tenderness intertwined. Amid sighs soaked in a mist of pleasure, their bodies intertwined in a divine choreography, where each movement was a lascivious stanza. She was the burning flame. He was the glowing ember, and together, they formed a fire that consumed everything in its path.

Each touch was a living metaphor, a symphony of shivers, and muted moans. Their skins, intertwined like intertwined verses, merged in a frantic dance of passion. And there, in that forbidden dance, they discovered and gave themselves without reservations, unveiling the secrets of bodies that became one. And so, in a poetic ecstasy, time diluted into eternal seconds, and the world boiled down to that intimate scene of two beings that completed each other, like words and verses that intertwine to create an unforgettable poem. Nothing else existed beyond that moment when poetry became flesh, and love became the most beautiful of metaphors.

He, like a romantic poet, touches every inch of her skin like someone who writes eternal verses. His hands, dexterous and smooth, glided like silk feathers, unveiling the hidden secrets of her female geography. His lips, sweet as nectar, kissed her with the passion of a medieval troubadour.

And there, in that small universe of intimacy, their bodies surrendered to the pulsating rhythm of love. They were two thirsty souls, sailing on a sea of ​​pleasure, where each sigh was a song sung by passionate lovers.

Each touch was a caress that revealed a secret. And there, in that eternal night, their bodies and souls merged into one entity, transcending the barriers of time and space. And so, in that intimate scene, they became a living poem, written in the stars and whispered by the wind of passion. kiss was a promise of eternity. They surrendered to the game of seduction, like birds that intertwine in the sky, seeking to reach the sublime freedom of love.

And when it finally climaxed, it was as if the universe itself exploded into color and stars. Their bodies, entwined like branches of a leafy tree, found ecstasy in a moment that seemed to last forever.

Afterward, wrapped in a tender silence, they rested in her bed, hearts beating in unison. In that instant, they were more than lovers; they were poetry in the form of human beings, woven together by invisible threads of desire and love.

And there, in that eternal night, their bodies and souls merged into one entity, transcending the barriers of time and space. And so, in that intimate scene, they became a living poem, written in the stars and whispered by the wind of passion.

"I will always love you" he whispers, kissing her soft skin.

"Then don't go away again"

[b-afterhours]

Avenue of Sins: Neon

A sequel to Avenue of Sins

SUMMARY: ‘90s. It’s the aftermath. Jaded, Bill and Alma navigate their new lives as they try to drag themselves out of the dark debacherous trenches they had once ensnared themselves in. It’s easy to forget their evils when a silver lining introduces itself into their lives but can they create a less hedonistic life that would be just as satisfying?

WARNINGS: adult content, mature readers only.

The completed first series can be read and found here.

Author's Note: It's a long one. Happy New Year!

Chapter Nine

Valentine’s Day 1993

Bill was just about to leave his penthouse when the phone rang upstairs. Quickly, he took two steps at a time up the wrought iron spiral staircase and hastily grabbed the phone. It was Alma on the other end of the line thanking him for the dozen red rose vase bouquets that he had delivered to her apartment. 

“Is it overkill?” He asked. 

“Yes,” Alma laughed. “But they are all very pretty.” She said touching the soft velvety petals of a rose before her.

“I’ll miss you tonight.” 

“Me too. But we’ll see each other in a couple of days…” 

Bill smiled at the thought. “Uh, I was just heading out but-” 

“No. I’ll let you go. I have to do the same. We have a show tonight at the shop.” 

“Right,” he sighed. “I love you.” 

“I love you too.” click.

…

Bill arrived at Trigger Finger XXX early that day since he wasn’t staying as late as he usually would that night. He had just finished eating a good sizable steak with a side of fries and sauteed asparagus that Bianca had gifted him. She had the kitchen staff prepare it for him making no fuss of it so that he could eat and enjoy it alone in the office. She knew he’d prefer it that way. He had almost forgotten to give her a gift but when leaving the gym he had stopped by a small chocolatier shop close by to grab her a box of intricate chocolates on a whim. One year she had even given him a bouquet of white roses which he found a little weird but deep down it did feel a little nice to receive. He wasn’t a great gift giver himself, it was just easier to hand money off than make decisions about what someone would like. Of course, with Alma, he made a little more effort but she never complained about the money either. 

Eventually, he found himself down below in the designated VIP booth he sat at every night. Everyone seemed to be in a loving mood. Quite a few times flower delivery men had come to his club to drop off bouquets to a few girls and he could see all the girls checking them out silently competing over who had the biggest prettiest one. Had they known Alma would have been the winner. Tommy had stopped by his booth, he had just personally delivered pink roses and a large teddy bear that had shiny pink foil heart-shaped balloons attached to it to Bambi. They shook hands and Bill offered him a drink while he was already waving a bartender over before he could happily accept as he slid into the booth. They spoke a bit about Tommy’s cubicle job and house hunting over drinks until the conversation fell back on the celebrations of the day. 

“Bambi seemed to really love the gift you brought,” Bill said.

“Ah, thanks she really likes that kind of stuff. I mean girls you know,” he lightly shrugged. “Uh did you get your wife something? Sorry, I can’t recall her name?”

“My girlfriend, Alma. Yeah, I got her roses.” He nodded.

“Oh, sorry I wasn’t sure whether-”

“Don’t sweat it,” he said, picking up his drink for a sip. In the back of his mind, he knew he probably should and would marry her. However, the thought of asking her the question made him so dreadfully anxious. Worried that she would say no even if most likely she wouldn’t. But what if she did? She could be very stubborn.

“I remember you two mentioning at Bianca’s Christmas party that you’ve been together since high school like me and Sar-Bambi I mean.” 

“Yeah, long time,” he said, picking a piece of lint off his tailored charcoal trousers. It was easier to give a short answer. They had only known each other since high school. That was a fact but in regards to being together just as Tommy and Bambi were wasn’t. However, he wasn’t about to get into the debacle that was their actual relationship with Tommy two-bit next to him. They never really officially asked each other to be boyfriend and girlfriend, one day they just were after everything else they were to each other.

“Mhmm. Do you ever… get bored?” 

Bill turned to look at him with furrowed brows. “Mm. No, she keeps me on my toes,” he smirked. 

Tommy just nodded sheepishly to himself. “My wife and I have kind of discussed maybe… inviting a third into our bedroom you know trying to spice it up. But uh we haven’t found anyone we can both agree on.” 

Bill quickly side-eyed him. Why the hell was he telling him this? “Um,” Bill sighed. “Sure but I hope you two aren’t fishing for my dancers. I don’t think that that would be app-” 

“Not the girls,” Tommy said, cutting him off and giving him a pointed look. 

Bill looked away from him for a second, noticing Venus dancing to What’s Love Got to Do with It by Tina Turner on stage, and then turned back to him with a skeptical expression on his face. “Eh, Tommy?” 

“You seem fine enough to me. She likes you,” he lightly shrugged. 

“Yeah… most people do but they don’t often ask me to fuck their wife.” 

“Hey, I was just putting feelers out,” Tommy said, putting his hands up defensively. “But I take it that you’re not interested. I just figured as a man who works in this type of environment that maybe…” 

“Sure,” Bill rolled his eyes. “But I learned long ago that I frankly don't like an audience.” He declared. 

It was years ago he agreed to let a pathetic husband watch him fuck their wife. It was fine when it started but when he could hear the other man's moans filling the room while he jerked off his less-than-average penis in a corner it began to throw him off. He was being demanded of things from both the husband and the wife. The woman wanted it a certain way while the man wanted to watch something else. Then the man got jealous and asked him to leave before he could finish much to his wife's protests against it. He didn’t like the idea of fighting a naked man while he was vulnerable as well. Instead, he collected his clothes, gave the man some scathing choice words, and went on his way. Though even afterward the woman called his phone but he rebuffed her politely as he could because he surprisingly felt bad about what she had to deal with. By the third time he rudely told her to lose his number and threatened to kick her husband's ass for real if she didn’t. 

“Just forget it, man. I read you wrong.” Tommy said, pushing his drink glass away.

“Look, it’s just not for me. But uh I hope you find someone at the very least.” 

“Mhmm,” Tommy said, putting on an act of checking his cheap wristwatch. “I gotta pick up our son from his grandma.” He offered his hand and gave him a curt handshake before he left. 

Bill just sat there alone slightly amused and stunned as he rubbed the thin white gold chain he wore around his neck between his fingers. To him, Bambi and Tommy seemed subjectively normal and though he’s seen and heard and done a lot in his life people could still surprise him. He shook his head to himself hurrying out of the booth and lit a cigarette on his way to the girl's dressing rooms. It was filled with all sorts of bouquets and heart shaped gifts today. There were a few girls in there when he stopped at the threshold flicking ash from his cigarette to the floor. The scent of Aquanet and strawberry body mist hit him. A few girls were adjusting straps of clothing and others touching up make-up in the mirror of the wall-to-wall-lit vanity. When they registered a male presence they all turned their head and smiled noticing it was him. Though security did a fine job of keeping men out there were times a creep would sneak past and they never liked to miss an opportunity to tell them off.

“Hi boss,” they all said together melodically. 

“Hi ladies,” he politely smiled at them. “Happy Valentine’s,” he said, slightly bowing his head.

He walked in further glancing at Bambi who seemed more occupied with touching up her red lipstick than paying attention to him. He wondered if she put Tommy up to the proposal or whether she knew at all. He looked around for Marcy when he realized Payday wasn’t in the dressing room meaning if he didn’t see her on the floor she was most likely in the private rooms working. Marcy was in the back area with Chastity holding onto a wax strip that had been applied to her lower belly as she braced. 

“Just do it!” Chastity whined and with that, Marcy pulled it away from her body which made her recoil from the abrupt pain. 

“Sorry, sorry,” Marcy said looking at the pink strip that had short dark hairs attached to it now.

“Fucking hardcore,” Bill said when Chastity walked away rubbing the ruddy sore spot below her navel as he took a drag of his cigarette. 

“Not so easy being a woman,” Marcy said, turning to him with a wink. “What’s up?” 

“I was looking for Payday. When she circles back around from the private rooms could you tell her I’ll be waiting in the loft?” He said pointing behind himself. 

Just before he walked out, Onyx came in walking a bit strangely announcing that she needed a tampon. When he got to the loft he plopped down on the couch because Bianca was sitting at the desk looking over paperwork and tapping her long red nails on the desk. He sighed to himself loudly as he lifted his long leg to place on top of the coffee table in front of him and the other crossed his knee at the ankle. 

“What’s up with you lover boy?” Bianca finally said. 

“Just waiting,” he shrugged. “Thanks for my gift by the way.”

“Of course! Thanks for mine.” She said tapping on the box of chocolates on the desk. He had just left it there for her to discover and placed a sticky note on it that read: To B from B. “And what is this that you’re waiting on? The desk?” 

Bill lightly chuckled. “Waiting on Payday. She asked if I’d take her to Simion’s fight tonight last week. I figured why not.” 

“Hmm,” Bianca expressed looking a little perturbed. “So she’s with him for real then?” 

“Seems like it. Why?” 

Bianca shook her head. “You know when I was the house mother I didn’t like the girls to form real relationships with clients. Personally, I know what can go wrong. I met my sons' asshole father here.” She rolled her eyes. “He gave me hell forever when we separated, tried to get my sons taken away claiming I was an unfit mother. Anyway,” she waved a hand trying to dismiss those memories and the risk of repeating a story Bill already knew. “Marcy is with that bogus-looking guy she met here and suddenly she’s gone lax on that rule.” 

“Sounds like you might have to talk to her?” 

“And you too. It doesn’t bother you,” she asked, lifting a brow at him. 

“To a degree but as long as our money keeps coming…” he shrugged but Bianca didn’t seem pleased with that answer. “Sure, I agree with you we can’t start having our high-dollar girls marrying off. If Marcy has a problem just call in the big guns,” he said playfully flexing his biceps. 

“Oh look at you! Fuckin’ dork.” Bianca said, making him laugh. “You are looking nice today though, even wearing color for once.” She said pointing out his ruby-colored button-up. “And the red bottoms.” She noticed his new designer Chelsea boots.

“Ah yeah, Alma bought these for me when she went shopping last time she was here. Nice huh?” He said, rubbing a smudge from the sleek black leather with his thumb.

There was a knock at the door and Theo walked in with Payday just behind him holding a clutch purse. She had put on a short satin red dress with a cowl neck that hung low with nude strappy stilettos. Her long dark hair was curled and styled half up and half down with flirty locks framing her face. The shade of pink lipstick she wore on her full lips complimented her tan skin. As he got up to grab his long black coat he thought about how they would match and if he should change his shirt while Payday asked Bianca if she looked cute. He decided that changing it would make it a bigger deal when there were a lot of people who would be wearing red today. In some ways, Payday’s looks reminded him of Alma so he enjoyed looking at her but not much else beyond that did he find interesting. He asked Payday if she’d like to borrow a jacket since there was still a chill in the February air and was only wearing thin fabric and little of it but she politely declined.

They were mostly silent in Bill’s car on the way to the discrete location of the underground boxing match. Payday was sitting with her legs crossed, her smooth thick thigh facing him on display, and was anxiously fiddling with her long French tip acrylic nails. 

“Are you cold,” Bill asked. 

“No,” she said softly. “Just nervous. I’ve never been to anything like this. And my boyfriend is gonna be up there you know?” She said clasping her hands and settling them into her lap. 

Bill nodded in understanding. “Well as a fair warning, it’s not like anything you’ve seen on pay-per-view. It’s a bare-knuckle fight,” when he glanced at her he noticed her wearily frown. “But I’ve seen Simion fight, he’s good. He hardly gets touched.” He tried to reassure her. “Um, did he get you anything nice today?” He said steering the subject to something else to ease her anxious worrying for a bit. 

“Oh you know, flowers, chocolates, money,” she sighed. “After the fight, we’re staying at a really nice hotel which I’m excited about.”

When Bill asked her where they were staying he just nodded at the mention of the place. It wasn’t what he would call really nice by his standards but fine enough. Then he thought that maybe he was being a bit of a snob about it. He didn’t come from luxury but now he had preferences for things he never imagined there were preferences for. 

“Don’t you have a girl? Did you get her something nice?” 

“Hmm. I try.” He said scratching his mustache. 

“Oh c’mon!” 

“We’re not big gift givers. We mostly like to just be together but she’s living in another state right now. I’m seeing her in a few days.” 

“That should be nice. I briefly saw her when she was at the club a few months ago. She’s very pretty, soft, but kinda tough. It’s sexy.” She said which made Bill smile. “But I can imagine you kinda have to be a bit tough to be with you. You know because of your job and you come off as very mysterious sometimes. Like a bit hard to crack,” Payday lightly laughed. 

Bill chewed on his cheek in thought for a moment. “By ‘a bit hard to crack’ do you mean like standoffish? Dickish?” 

“Hey boss, I said no such thing, you did.” She smirked. 

“It’s a fair observation, I guess.”

“I mean even for me it’s hard to date, not a lot of guys have liked that I dance you know. Takes a specific kind of person who’d be cool with it.” She said finishing a previous thought she had to fill the dead space fearing she may have offended him. 

They fell silent again. Bill had to admit he was private, more so in recent years ever since the situation with Craig. He didn’t need to make any unnecessary waves. Besides that, he had a family to protect as well whom he didn’t need to make targets of his misdeeds. It had happened once and he’d be damned if it ever happened again.

Payday sat in her seat still nervous but now it was because she felt she may have said something wrong. She peered over towards Bill who was taping his steering wheel with his thumb to the beat of a down-tempo alternative rock song softly playing on the radio unbothered as he drove them. That’s when she peeked at a small photo tucked into the car dash control panel of a sleeping baby. Of course, all the dancers talked about him. She’s heard bits of pieces of things that mostly sounded like bullshit to her. She never liked to make assumptions about people because she didn’t like when people did it to her when they learned of her profession. However, the photo did confirm the baby rumor amongst the bullshit ones she’s heard.

“If you weren’t going to this fight and you didn’t have to work tonight, what would you be doing?” Bill asked her as he turned a street corner. He could sense her nervousness after he had quit speaking and was trying not to seem so cold. It hit him then that it sort of felt like a first date with how painful it felt to carry on a conversation. 

“Oh. Um well, I used to rave and go hang with club kids. That’s how I picked up all those little funny games I play with the clients,” she lightly giggled. “But yeah, probably something like that. I bet there are a few on tonight too. Have you ever raved?” 

“I’ve been to a couple when I was a bit younger. My girlfriend liked to go to those mostly. She likes to dance but I’m not so good at it.” He lightly shrugged. “We’re here.” He announced as he swooped into a parking spot. 

Payday looked around. It was just a random city block with a few sketchy warehouses. She saw some people walking down the street but a few she could pluck out by their more tailored threads. They were most likely headed to where they were. 

“It’s still a bit of a walk from here. Will you be okay?” He said with a pointed look at her stiletto heels while he picked up a loose cigarette that lay on top of his dashboard and put it between his lips. 

“It’ll be okay,” she hoped. She could do a lot on the platform heels she wore at work but these were flat to the ground, better for sitting down and looking cute on her French pedicured feet.

Without a warning, Bill reached behind his back and grabbed the handle of his gun. Payday watched him check the slide and pull a lever and then he met her shocked expression, apologetically he laid his gun gently on his lap. It was a lapse in judgment on his part, he navigated alone and the only other girl that had ever been in his Thunderbird was Alma who wouldn’t have been startled by it one bit. Surely, the girls at the club knew he carried a gun but he was in a car in a sketchy area alone with a girl being too casual about a deadly weapon. If this was an actual first date this would have been the moment Payday would have decided that there wouldn’t be a second. That thought amused Bill. 

“Sorry. They don’t allow outside firearms. They check,” he explained with the unlit cigarette still between his lips until he plucked it away. “Do you mind if I reach over to put it in the glovebox in front of you?” 

“It’s cool. I just didn’t expect it.” 

“You don’t mind?” He asked again because she didn’t answer his question. 

“No,” she shook her head. 

She was beginning to wonder what in the world her boyfriend Simion’s fight night got her into tonight. It all seemed so hush-hush and serious now. It seemed like he told her enough but not the details of what underground fighting really was because she imagined it was just some macho guy get-together. Bill reached over and placed his Glock in the glove box. Before he shut and locked it with his key she could have sworn she saw not only a large bottle of Chanel cologne and a pocket knife but also a pair of white sheer panties. That observation quickly left when she noticed the lock of hair that fell out of his slicked hair, his clear skin, and the expensive cologne he wore while he was so close. He was handsome, she loved his big beautiful green eyes that set him apart but she preferred Simion’s muscular brawny build more. Plus, Bill could be a bit stoic whereas Simion was playful. However, she had seen Bill cut up on occasion and how Bianca and him would joke. He just wasn’t someone who’d let people in easily. Almost as if you’d have to prove yourself to be in his inner circle. 

After he opened her door and helped her out after a quick reapplication of gloss. They walked half a block and through a tiny residential alley until they finally reached the back area of a nondescript almost dilapidated-looking warehouse. Bill had his coat collar slightly popped up with a hand inside the pocket as he was smoking his cigarette with the other. A few times he had to pause while Payday caught up to his strides. She wouldn’t even answer a callback from him if this was a first date for doing that, that’s for sure, he thought. 

They stood behind a few other spectators being patted down. Once it was their turn Bill flicked his cigarette away and asked for her purse before he went first. He passed the small clutch to the security guard and he took a glance over at the ID, coin purse, powder case, lipstick, gloss, and the two light blue condoms inside. Bill passed it back behind himself to her and then put his hands up to be patted down. Payday could tell he was thoroughly annoyed by it and saw him muttering something to the security. 

“She’s a lady.” She heard him say in a low tone. “Look at what she’s wearing, what would she have on her.”

“I don’t give a fuck,” the stocky bald security guard said back. 

Bill flashed him a dark steely gaze. “I do.” 

It was then she glanced down and caught Bill palming the security a few one hundred dollar bills and he waved them through without her needing to be subjected to an invasive pat down. 

“Ready,” he asked her with a softer demeanor about him again and then offered his arm for her to grab as a polite gesture.

It was strange to her how he could change his emotions in that way. Almost like a Jekyll and Hyde effect. All she knew was that she never wanted him to look at her in the way he looked at the security guard because she might just piss herself. 

Inside there was commotion coming from everywhere. There were two lean muscular boxers on the makeshift but well-built rings in the center of the warehouse but it seemed not many people were interested in watching. There were people still looking for seats and waiters with drink trays weaving between them. A woman at a coat check offered to take Bill’s coat but he waved off the offer. As they continued through she realized it was a full operation which was here in the night but gone in the day. 

“I need to stop by the bets real quick,” he said leaning down so she could hear him. Even in stilettos, she was short. “Then we can look for seats.” 

She watched him speaking to a bookie placing bets of exorbitant amounts of money. He turned back to look at her over his shoulder and saw her taking everything in. 

“Would you like to bet on a round?” He asked her, trying to make her feel included. “On me,” he said before she could say she had no money to bet with.

“Sure,” she said, deciding to participate especially since it wasn’t her money to waste away. 

“Okay, boxing usually goes ten rounds right? Tonight’s main event only goes to seven,” he explained. “So from one to seven, you can bet on which round there will be a knockout that ends the fight.”

“It’s just a guess?” She asked and Bill nodded. “Hmm. Round six.” 

“Round six,” Bill nodded in approval. It wasn't a bad or good round to choose as long as she didn’t say round one. He would have chosen the fifth round knowing how Simion fought. He turned back to the bookie who asked him if he wanted to do the lower hundred bets and then it jumped to twenty-five hundred or five thousand dollar pots. “What do you think?” He turned to her again.

“Uh,” Payday grinned a bit overwhelmed. “Twenty-five hundred?” That amount of money was a fraction of a fraction of the numbers she had heard him throw out before getting her to play.

“Eh. Maybe a little higher right,” Bill said pointing up. “Something worthwhile.” 

“It’s your money, boss,” she said nervously. He only looked at her, waiting for her to agree. “Hm, five thousand then,” and even that was still a modest number from the ones she’d heard before. “Sixth round,” she said more definitively in her tone.  

Bill grinned. “Now we’re playing.” 

They were held up a bit by the entrance to the boxing ring because Bill had recognized a few men there and was speaking to them. She looked around and quickly grabbed a champagne glass from a passing waiter and downed its contents which earned a glance from Bill but he turned away again with a smirk she mistook for a sneer. She thought maybe that was a bit trashy of her because of the look he gave. But she didn’t know him enough to know he found it funny. As he tried to veer away from the conversation before him he was saved when one of Simion's training crew called his name. He was a young guy named Aaron and Bill had even worked out with him. 

“C’mon, follow me!” He hollered above the crowd and waved them over. 

Bill offered his arm again to Payday as he kept his eyes on the back of Aaron’s blonde head and navigated them through the crowd. The crowd started to become thinner and eventually, they turned a corner. Payday let go of him and walked ahead down the corridor as Bill and Aaron shook hands a few paces behind. She could faintly hear her boyfriend Simion’s voice and followed it.

“Payday,” Bill said, pointing to a makeshift room as she walked ahead. “In here.” 

She turned her head and hastily scurried back and Bill stood behind to let her in first. Simion turned his head in the middle of a pep talk from his trainer and brightly grinned when he spotted her. 

“Simi!” She shouted happily.

“Marina my angel!” He exclaimed with his arms out awaiting her embrace. She leaped up and slammed her body against his before they tongue-kissed. Everyone could see her asscheeks because her skirt rode up and she didn’t even bother to adjust it. 

“Careful! He’s still got the main event coming up,” Mauricio his trainer chided. 

Simion placed her back on her stilettos as she bashfully pulled her skirt hem down. “She is my main event, Mauricio!” He said, kissing her cheek proudly. 

Bill was leaning against a heavy punching bag with his arms crossed when Aaron leaned in towards him. 

“It’s like some kind of fucked up Rocky movie,” he said to him which made him chuckle. 

“Hey, did you get it in,” Bill asked him hushed. 

“Right, right,” Aaron said, grabbing a small gym bag sitting on the dusty floor next to him.

Bill used his broad back and large body to shield his gym friend as he dug in the bag and produced a small Sig Sauer he had snuck into the facilities for him. It was easier for him because as a part of the crew, they weren’t subjected to pat downs the way patrons were. Even if he was a bit weary of leaving one of his guns from him to hold on to, Bill also knew Aaron was young and stupid enough to bring it in as a way to impress him. Bill quickly grabbed it, checking the slide and the safety before tucking it into a custom inner pocket he had tailored into his coat. He thanked Aaron with a pat on his shoulder since he had already paid him for the favor prior. He didn’t trust anyone at these events, everyone was into shady seedy shit and Bill had laid down a lot of money tonight he wasn’t risking not having a piece on him. He was sure he wasn’t the only one who did either.

Aaron backed away when Simion approached them in his blue, yellow, and red designed boxing shorts that were meant as an homage to the Romanian flag. Bill straightened up and they hooked hands before Simion pulled him into an embrace. He pulled him like he weighed nothing which took him aback a bit but he held his ground. His biceps were two – close to three sizes – bigger than his. 

“Thanks for bringing her brother,” he said to him. “She’s my good luck charm!” 

“No problem. I told you I would bring her in one piece tonight,” he said, scratching his neck.

“I managed to get you and her some front-row seats. You know for the trouble.” 

“No trouble at all. And I appreciate it but uh I just like to sit in the back you know.” 

“Low profile I understand. Well, it’s there if you want it, no worries, brother.” He said, patting his arm.

“Thanks. I can take Payday to her seat though.” 

“Such a gentleman. I’d like that.” 

“We need to buckle down Simion,” Maurcio bellowed sternly. “The fight right now is almost over, then we got one more and you’re up.” 

Bill waited outside the room for Payday as she said her goodbyes to Simion but when they emerged at the threshold he caught Simion pulling her dress down to kiss her bare breasts. He looked away. He had seen them countless times, he could even picture them perfectly but it just felt weird to look at them outside the club. 

“I asked you to keep it a surprise,” Payday said to him as she approached. 

Bill began to lead her out the corridor before answering her. “I know.”

“Well?” 

He looked down at her and took a deep breath. “It’s just a stupid guy thing. You’re his girlfriend. I have to respect that and make sure he was cool about me giving you a ride.” He caught her slightly rolling her eyes and he had to keep himself from smirking.

He led her to the seats, really damn good seats. With an open hand, he pointed to her seat like a good usher would and just as he began to walk off she caught the tail of his long coat.

“Are you really just going to leave me all alone?” She said looking up at him a bit upset. 

Bill groaned under his breath and leaned down. “It’s a bit too overexposed for me.” 

“I don’t know anyone here but you and Simion?” She pulled on his coat collar to speak into his ear. “Honestly, I’m a little uncomfortable.” She looked around then and while there were a few women amongst the male majority she was there front and center. She felt overexposed as well. 

Bill side-eyed her and then closed his eyes in thought. If it was Alma he would sit down if she was uncomfortable. However, she wasn’t but as a friend of Simion’s, he decided he would bear it. 

“Fine,” he said begrudgingly. 

He shrugged his coat off and again a waiter in passing asked if he’d like to check his coat and again he declined. As far as he knew his Louis Vuitton coat would just walk out without him and the thief would also now have a new gun. He held it by the collar and then draped it across his lap as he finally sat down. 

“Thank you,” she said, nudging him. 

“Yup,” he sighed indignantly. “Can I ask you something? Is it alright if I call you Marina here?” 

“You can call me whatever you like boss,” she smiled politely and batted her silver shadowed eyes at him. It was maybe even a little flirtatious if he wanted to look at it that way. Suddenly this faux date had turned into an escort service by that response. And by how she was dressed it probably did look like that outwardly.

“No like seriously. You don’t have to call me Boss either we're not at work.” He didn’t mind the girls calling him boss but he always wondered when that even started. They used either his name or boss interchangeably but one day it was just boss only. 

“So you want me to call you, Bill?” She asked cautiously. 

“You could have always called me Bill,” he said, slightly irritated. “So can I call you Marina? Of course, at work, I wouldn’t obviously.”

“Marina is fine... But I usually go by Mari’.” 

Bill bit his lip and looked away to keep the frustrated laugh from escaping past his lips. “Okay, Mari’ then.” If he had this exact conversation with Alma he would have sworn she was fucking with him just to start an argument. Unfortunately, it seemed like this was just how Mari was. 

And now he just missed Alma all over again. Keeping busy always helped but it being Valentine's just exasperated all his feelings for her because she just wasn’t there. Did he agree to this because it was the closest thing to Alma? Though they were similar in looks he couldn’t keep himself from finding all the things she lacked. What started as a polite favor he now began to wonder if he was just so damn lonely his subconscious planned all of this. 

A waiter stopped by them and he quickly ordered a glass of top-shelf bourbon, for Mari Dom Perignon after discovering that’s what she stole off the tray when he asked the waiter what champagne was being served.

“You’re expensive,” he smugly joked. 

Their drinks arrived as soon as the second-to-last fight started. He told the waiter to keep the drinks coming until he said when. Bill had bet on this fight and Simion’s so he was interested to see how it would go. He bet that the Irish fighter would win since he hadn’t had a single loss on his record and expected the streak to continue. The first round had the crowd in the warehouse roaring as the Irish fighter put in some work on the other off the bat. Bill finished the rest of his Bourbon and an attentive waiter swooped by to grab his empty glass. Resting his elbows on his knees and wringing his hands together he watched the second round start and it began the way the first went. Until after the last-minute mark when the Irish fighter ducked a punch the other boxer clipped him with a left hook stunning him and leaving his guard down enough that another punch hit him square in the face. His knees buckled from under him and like a dead weight, he fell forward straight on the boxing mat. The crowd's roars were deafening, some patrons shot out of their seats in disbelief. The referee counted down and it was over. 

“FUCK!” Bill yelled and his face fell into his hand. “Fuck me,” he whined. 

Bill sat back in his seat, shaking his head with furrowed brows. Marina glanced at him remorsefully; she knew he bet on the Irish fighter to win and he went down unexpectedly quick. Money gone, just like that. The waiter came with drinks and she watched him shoot it down like a shot and put it back on the drink tray. She was worried about saying anything because of how upset he looked, twisting around his blue gem pinky ring. The winning team finally got out of the ring after congratulating the underdog and Bill sighed loudly in resignation. 

“Well shit,” he said, turning to Marina now. “I wasn’t expecting that.” 

“That was… crazy. I heard you bet on Simion too,” she said cautiously. 

“I did,” he nodded. “Hopefully he wins it all back for me.” He had more at stake in Simion’s fight and he was silently praying to whatever powers that be. 

The ring was being swept off and prepared as Simion was the main event. It was quiet between the two while they waited until Marina spoke up. 

“Bo-Bill,” she said to gain his attention. “If you weren’t here tonight what would you be doing on Valentine's Day instead?” She was reframing the question he had made up to ease her earlier in the evening. 

Bill smiled and turned his body so that it was more open to her now. “Hm. Not sure.” 

“Would your girlfriend like to come to something like this?” She asked after taking a sip of the champagne she’d been nursing.

“Probably. But I wouldn’t bring her here for Valentine’s,” he lightly chuckled. “We’d go out to eat, and stay in a nice hotel suite,” he paused, deciding how much he wanted to tell her. “Uh, I like to buy her dresses so she’d be out with me wearing what I bought her.” 

“Aw, that’s so cute! And you say you’re not a good gift giver?” She said playfully tapping his arm.

“I mean I told you I try,” he said, taking a sip of his drink. “But the dresses are more for my indulgence.” 

“Can I ask a question,” she said softly to which Bill nodded as a reply. “I saw that picture on the dash, whose pretty baby is that?” 

Bill looked away a second and looked back at her with a tight smile rubbing the stubble on his chin with his knuckles. He barely gave her an inch and she just went the whole mile. He was worried about this. 

“You’re only asking that because I think you already know,” he said to her, seeing through her disingenuous questioning. “I know you girls talk about me in the dressing rooms. Was it Bambi?” He knew when he saw Bambi at Bianca’s Christmas party that she’d be the one to leak that information around whether intentionally or not. He was surprised to even see her there at all as Bianca liked to keep a tight group as well but it was her home he had no say on her guests. 

Marina hated feeling caught, she knew better. She responded to him remorsefully nodding her head. “I’m sorry, Bill. That was ugly of me.” 

“It’s not your fault for being curious, Mari. I know I’m a cryptic fuck it doesn’t help when it comes to speculation,” he set his drink on the floor and crossed his arms sitting back in his seat. “To answer your question, yeah that’s my pretty little baby,” he smiled and that eased her enough to smile also. “It’s not like some huge secret exactly. I just… want to keep her separate from business, you know? I’m also guilty of being possessive. So when it comes to my daughter-” 

“Out of bounds,” Marina said understandingly.

“Exactly,” Bill nodded. “Out of bounds, that works,” he said because he was going to originally say that it was nobody's fucking business. This was less crass.

“So I’m guessing you wouldn’t even tell me her name then.”

That made Bill lightly chortled because she was still trying to pry. “Yeah, no I won’t be. I won’t even entertain a guess.” 

“Fair. I can respect that.”

“Thank you.” He said with an appreciative nod.  

“Picturing you with a little daughter looks so sweet. You probably wouldn’t like to hear it but it takes a little edge off you knowing that now.” 

“Sorry for breaking that facade tonight,” Bill joked. 

“The way you’ve behaved tonight towards me, well except for walking ahead of me earlier,” she pointed out to which he quickly threw in a sorry. “Maybe you’re possessive I guess but you’re protective. I can tell you’re a good dad because you light up talking about her. I wish my dad did when he talks about me.” 

Bill bashfully looked at his lap twisting the pinky ring that honored his daughter and smiled to himself. “Ah, that’s sweet of you to say, Mari.” He couldn’t ever say that he was a good dad or not exactly; he didn't feel like he had spent enough time with Echo to gauge that. Even with the reassurance from Alma that his daughter loved him and that he was a good dad, he felt like she had to say that as his partner. Hearing it from a near stranger felt nice though it made him feel good about himself. 

“So back to my question before since I know what I know now. If you weren’t here tonight. Good food and hotel still?” 

“She’d tag along with us. She’s still little,” he said, putting his hand out a few feet from the floor indicating her height. “Alma, my girlfriend, always likes to call her a fancy girl when we’re doing something particularly gaudy,” he laughed. “But yeah she’s fancy, she's got a lot more at her disposal than we ever had. That’s for sure.” 

The announcer finally introduced the main event of the night. While Bill tried his best to keep his conversations with Marina dreadfully shallow he now kind of appreciated where their night’s conversation went. It was nice to think and talk about the girls he loved so much with someone else besides Bianca. He was sure he bored her with it sometimes. Now he had to focus, he had money to win. 

After the announcer introduced the referee and the other main event boxer, Simion walked to the center of the ring lightly jogging in place and jutting out punches which made the crowd cheer. 

“And in the blue, yellow, and red shorts, SIMION ‘THE DRAGON’ DALCA!!! Let the Bloody Valentine’s Fight begin!” 

Marina jumped from her seat and cheered her boyfriend while Bill only stood up and clapped next to her. Simion spotted her and she began to blow kisses at him. They sat down as the first fight round went on with only a few jabs from both fighters sizing each other up. From the corner of Bill’s eye, he saw some latecomers to the fight shuffling to their front-row seats just on the other side of the ring. There was a classically beautiful woman who caught his eye first, her honey-blonde hair was in a perfect French roll and she was wearing a brown mink fur coat and white gloves. She looked suitably dressed for a symphony, not some dusty underground boxing fight. 

That was until someone stepped aside revealing Joey Russo right beside her. He was dressed in a nicely tailored three piece suit with a rose boutonniere attached to the lapel. He briefly watched as Joey helped the woman take her mink off and handed it off to who looked like personal security. He looked away and took a deep breath through his nose holding the air in his puffed-up chest and let it back out slowly. He and Joey Russo had bumped into each other here and there and were fine with each other but it didn’t mean he liked it when it happened. He’d much prefer if he never saw him ever again but such is life. In the days when everything could seem so trivial suddenly he is hit with too much in a day all at once. 

He put all his focus on the fight only pausing a moment to roll up the sleeves of his button up. Though the way the day kept throwing curveballs he was deeply worried. Simion had been putting up a good fight throwing blows that would buckle five men but his opponent was just taking it. Their bare knuckles were bloodied and raw. Simion’s nose was busted open in the fourth round and began to run crimson down his chin and trickled to his sweaty chest just as he did to his opponent in the third. Marina screamed when that happened and involuntarily clutched Bill’s arm. He patted her hand lightly not to remove it but so that she could let off a little as her long nails were digging into his skin. Near the end of the fifth round, Bill’s heart began to thump hard in his chest, adrenaline coursing through him. He reached down for his bourbon and finished it. The alcohol wasn’t going to save him though he was too pent up with anxious energy. 

As the boxers fought on the ropes of the ring where Joey Russo sat, he locked eyes with him. They gave each other a nod of acknowledgment and turned their focus back on the fight. Just before the end of the fifth round, Simion threw a medley of body jabs and he cheered appreciatively. 

“Yeah!” He caught himself shouting. 

He looked toward Marina and could see that she was tearing up. He would hold her hand but he wasn’t going to she wasn’t his but he’d allow her to grip onto his forearm like she had been doing even forgetting about her nails digging in. Once the sixth round started Simion took a bad blow that split his eyebrow which made him curse under his breath but then he felt Marina bury her face in the crook of his arm openly sobbing on him. He moved his arm as he tried to pay attention and awkwardly patted her back. Alma hardly sobbed like this. Usually, a few tears would run and she’d fiercely wipe them away and then she’d become annoyed by them rather than sad. In fact, he could only count the few times she did sob in front of him on his hand. She preferred to cry alone and didn’t want him around until she was finished. Didn’t seem so healthy thinking of it now. 

“C’mon,” he nudged her to right herself. “It’ll be ok-”

Just as he spoke then it was as if a fire erupted out of Simion who was once lagging from his tough contender's jabs. They were sparing off blow for blow. Until like a fury Simion hit him one after the other. From their front-row seats, Bill could hear the hard blows and the sweat spraying off their bodies as the punches connected one after the other. With one final uppercut Simion knocked out his opponent. Lights out. 

The crowd went absolutely crazy. Bill even jumped from his seat cheering and pumping a fist in the air, he won too. He won big tonight. 

“Holy fuck!” Bill said, running his hand through his hair as his main stressor lifted from his shoulders. “God damn it,” he shook his head in disbelief. “Simion fucking did it.” He said, turning to Marina who was now crying happily. 

With his coat in his hand, he quickly put it on and grabbed Marina's wrist. He needed to leave before the crowd rushed and blocked him in. The training crew lifted Simion on their shoulders celebrating his win as they left the ringside. Aaron was watching from the entrance of the corridor, he was in charge of watching the locker room that held the crew's items. He was glad for that because at least it was someone he could leave Marina with while everyone else was still celebrating in the ring. 

“I’ll leave you with Aaron over there if that’s okay. But we need to see the bookie first.” 

He was right up after a few other guys who’d collected smaller wins. Luckily a lot of the crowd were still cheering or arguing with each other over the results of the fight. First, he collected the five thousand dollars for the sixth-round knockout. The bookie wrapped the bundle of cash in butcher's paper and slid it over. Bill put it under his arm while he arranged the dealings of his earnings of the night. The five thousand was only his part of the pot, he had won much more from it. With Simion’s win and the pot earnings, he couldn’t take that amount of cash home tonight so he and the bookie arranged for it to be delivered to Trigger Finger. The bookie even offered collateral on his part to ensure he’d get the money. Bill knew this bookie to be respected and good on his word so he accepted. By tomorrow at 9 am he’d be waiting with security for the delivery at the club. 

He turned on his heel and while he was happy as hell he kept a cool poker face. He took the 5k out from under his arm and handed it to Marina and she looked at him shocked. 

“No, Bill. That’s your money I can’t,” she said, pushing his hand back. 

“You picked the round, you were right. Fuck, you really are his good luck charm,” he laughed.

“No…” she said, looking up at him shaking her head. “No.” 

“I won’t accept that,” he said, pushing his hand forward and placing the money on her chest forcing her to take hold of it.

She grabbed it and looked shocked. “This is crazy shit Boss,” she laughed. “Thank you.” She hugged him tightly. 

“After tonight uh I hope we’ve come to an understanding about what has been said?” He said, giving her a pointed look. 

 “You got it.” Marina nodded. “You didn’t say shit to me on the car ride and you sat in a corner all night by yourself,” she winked. 

“Thanks,” he said appreciatively. “See you at work, Mari.” Though he couldn’t be certain she would keep mum about their time tonight he hoped the money would be a good enough incentive to. 

After paying his drink tab he reached in his coat pocket for his pack of smokes as he headed out into the night. Walking with a few other guests as he reached the street. As he went on to get into his car on the other end of the block he saw a limousine parked at the corner. That’s when his path intersected with Joey Russo’s. He was trying to avoid him and for a moment he felt that he had gotten away. He was helping the well-put-together woman into the limo and saw her flash a cold glance with her ice blue eyes at Joey just as he turned to him.

“Ay, Bill!” Joey said delighted to have gotten to run into him.

“Fuck,” he muttered under his breath and then stomped his cigarette out. He looked at him with a tense smile then. “Joey,” he said with a curt nod. 

“What a fight right?” He said just as the woman inside the limo irritatedly asked him to shut the door complaining that she was cold and telling him to hurry up. “Hm. My wife Carmen,” he wryly smiled. “She’s not so happy that I kinda lied about our plans tonight,” he said lightly chuckling and taking a glance at Bill’s left hand to see if he had a gold band like his own but it was in his pocket while his other was around the handle of his gun. He was trying to find details he may not know about him already. “Do you happen to have another smoke, she can wait.” He said dismissively waving at the limo. 

“I do but I’m kinda in a rush?” He said scratching his neck revealing his bare ring finger to Joey. 

“I won’t hold you up too long.” He said grabbing the cigarette Bill held out for him he even offered his lighter but Joey had his own. “So it’s been a while. How have you been, huh?” 

“Business is still good,” he replied curtly. While he wasn’t asked that, that was all he was offering him feeling no need to speak about himself. 

“Same here. You know after Batter passed finally the old guards backed the fuck off. Buncha old school fucks you know?” He said, giving Bill a knowing look. 

“Mhmm,” he said, straightening his back.

“But that’s long done,” he said, taking a puff of his cig. “It’s the people like us that keep it fresh. There’s no time for old stubborn fools like that. Shit is changing so fast these days you gotta be on top of it or you get left behind.” He looked over at Bill who looked completely disinterested and just wanted to leave. “You rushing back to your girlfriend tonight? Alma?” 

Bill lightly cleared his throat, he didn’t particularly like that he even mentioned her. “Sure,” he said with a shrug as he looked down at him. It seemed to him that he had no idea she lived out of state which pleased him. Had Joey known he would have mentioned it, he liked revealing things he knew to get under people's skin. 

“I saw you sitting with that girl… almost thought it was her at first glance. One of your dancers, maybe?”

“The Dragon’s girlfriend.” He was slightly getting irritated the longer this conversation went on. Joey just wanted to hear himself talk because, during their other run-ins with each other, their banter went the same as tonight. Where Bill said little and Joey just spoke a whole lot of nothing hoping that by saying more he’d get more but it never happened with Bill.

“Ah, nice. Not bad,” he said, nodding his head. He was becoming bored too. There was nothing new with Bill. He liked to keep tabs on most people he’s dealt with but Bill was low on his roster. Just some punk kid who did his family a favor once. He wasn’t an enemy. “Anyway, it was good to see you. I know you’re not very keen on me but like I said that was old-guard shit. Though I have to say there’s no room for people like… well, you know.” He said, stomping out his cigarette. 

“Mm. I don’t think so,” Bill said, scratching his brow. 

“Right.” Joey chuckled. “See you around, Bill.” 

Bill walked slowly to his car after the limousine pulled away. He kept a hold of his gun and soon he was finally alone again. He walked around his car looking through the windows before getting in. He locked the doors, sat his gun on his lap with the safety off, and waited a bit cautiously looking through his rear and side view mirrors. When he felt safe enough he pulled away from the curb onto the New York City streets where he drove at cruising speed as he headed home. 

“Just three more days,” he thought to himself, glancing at the photo of his daughter on his dash panel.

[unfinshedsentec]

Hello Miss Ace, I hope you're doing well.

May I ask if the request are still on.

If the request are still on I would like a Wakasa Imaushi x reader, you can choose the storie about it. Of course you are free to ignore my request.

Sorry if this have bad grammar, english is not my motherland. (for me is french)

Thank you in advance and I hope you have a beautiful day.

Merci beaucoup en avance et J'espère que tu auras une très belle journée. (This Is in French)

Hi love, I hope you’re well! Thank you so much for requesting and talking to me <33 Sorry it took so long, but your Waka oneshot is here and slightly rushed….BUT I hope you still enjoy!

Also I did this soon enough after the volume 28 reveal that I’m not hardcore sinking for Waka💀

YOU’RE A……GIRL? || WAKSA IMAUSHI

reader is female for this one!

character pairing: wakasa imaushi x reader

plot: reader joins the black dragons as a women, but is disguised as a man. What will Waka do when he finds out?

tw: cursing, nuitdy, and slight mention of SA

The black dragons.

They’re a famous biker gang you always looked up to. In fact, it was always you’re dream to be a part of them.  You so desperately wanted to join them, fight alongside them, and just have some simple teenage fun.

Unfortunately, as a woman, being in a biker gang was…. risky to say the least. Too risky.

You always avoided it solely from the fact that you knew you’d get made fun of and well, who knows what a man would do if they found an unconscious woman on the ground.

Frankly, these things were the only things that stopped you from joined the gang.

However, the excitement and dream that you had towards them made you so excited that you FINALLY decided to live your dream.

You joined the black dragons! But…you were no special female black dragons’ member. You were a “male”.

That’s right, you joined the black dragons under a Male persona. You dressed, acted like, and pretty much made yourself look as male as possible.

You weren’t really a fan of this whole thing, but you needed to protect yourself, and in your mind, this as the best thing you could do.

Sure, it sucked to have to use bandages and suck your boobs in, or act like every other teenage boy there did, but it was better than outing yourself in more of a dangerous spot than you already put yourself in.

Unfortunately, this whole being-a-guy-but-not-a-guy thing went to hell when you caught feelings for you captain, Wakasa Imaushi.

Wakasa was just so mature, strong, kind, and hot and….my god you just loved him. Everything from his cool,  clam persona to his actual sincere personality made you fall for him. He unknowingly helped you through some of the roughest times in your life….and well, he was also incredibly hot.

Wakasa was pretty much your dream guy, so you were pretty much bound to catch feelings for him.

Unfortunately, you couldn’t just outright ask Waka out right now. You didn’t know if he liked guys, and even if he did, you couldn’t just outright lie to him like that.

It wouldn’t be fair to pursue Waka like this, nor would it be fair to go for him as your normal self, but then lie to him about the gang. It would never be fair to him.

So, you just never pursued your feelings. You let them sit and buried them in you as deep as you could. However, the longer you let them sit, the stronger they got.

Before you knew it, you found yourself avoiding Waka in order to prevent getting stronger feelings, and to avoid hurting yourself. The only time you saw him was during meeting, but that was it.

What you didn’t realize was that Waka was beginning to get seriously worried about you. At first, he figured you just weren’t feeling well or something, but the longer you avoided him, the more worried he became.

And now that you had gone as far as to skip today’s meeting AND ignore his calls, Waka had pretty much gotten more worried than ever. So, he took it upon himself to come to your house and check up on you, just to be sure you’re okay.

When you didn’t answer the door though and said nothing, he became even more panicked, so much so that he ended up entering your house through the unlocked door.

Even when he did step inside, you were nowhere. He heard nothing of any sort and there were no signs of any life.

Still, Waka went through each and every room to check for you. You were still nowhere to be found though. Until he reached the locked room that he guessed was your room. Waka was hesitant, but he was desperate, so he broke the door down, and well….

“AHHHHHHH” Waka screamed, scared shitless from you actually being in there.

“AHHHHHHHHHH” you screamed from the literal person who broke into your house. You jumped back, ran into the wall, and…. dropped the towel that was around your body.

And out came your secret.

You were stuck frozen, naked in front of the guy who was your boss and crush. Waka on the other hand, was just stuck staring at you, absolutely baffled.

You could tell from the look in his eyes that he was still processing everything, but the fact that he was just staring at your boobs wide-eyes, mouth agape made you pretty uncomfortable.

And you slapped him.

“What the fuck was that for?!” Waka yelled, a red imprint going across his cheek.

“You were staring at me!” you screamed in return.

“What was I supposed to do?! I just found out you have tits!”

“Don’t stare!”

“ I DON’T KNOW WHAT ELSE TO DO” Waka yelled, a blush forming on his face from the realization of everything. You, picked up the towel and just stared right back at him while he kept his eyes glued on your boobs.

“So….” He began.

“So……”

“Nice tits”

“Shut the fuck up”

And that was what stared the real spark began you two. Although it was a strange start, you quickly fell in love with each other and began a proper, loving, life-long relationship.

And who knew that it’d all start from the drop of a towel~

masterlist || reblogs are very appreciated

[presidentbungus]

ough practical espionageeee- I don’t think about it enough. Spy makes sure to keep himself closed off and then in walks this short-ass Texas man with a southern accent (that he can’t stop making fun of) and a genuinely kind smile and Spy’s just taken aback. He’s an ass on purpose to try to drive Engie away but he sees right through it and now they’re dating and usually Spy’s the smooth one but every now and then Engie’ll do smthn that flusters the HELL out of Spy (sorry for the long ramble agh)

YEA. this is literally them. Spy’s a bastard he’s like rrrrr I don’t have emotions rrrrr and engy’s like you damn idiot. you buffoon. you absolute imbecile. talk to me about your day and your problems I love you. let’s get married. and Spy’s like ok, fine, if you INSIST. I think they’re both in just a perpetual state of flustered around each other because they’re just so madly in love you know and the only real difference is engy doesn’t really care about hiding it. and then they kiss

[starbuck]

Have you ever seen Farewell to a Sailor by Pablo Mariani? Because it gives me big Flint-Miranda vibes

Do you mean The Sailor’s Farewell by Pompeo Mariani?

I hadn’t before but I looked it up when you sent this and I definitely get those vibes as well! It reminds me of the flashbacks of them being forced to leave England and, more on the topic of the painting, of how Miranda was forced to essentially sit around her house all alone for ten years while Flint played pirate without any real emotional outlet of her own.