#stare sat skype

[moon-child1316]

Cyber S3x || Miguel O'Hara x Reader

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When he off work, he calling me on Skype

Trust me when I meet him, I'm fucking him on sight 

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Warnings: Video call s3x/ dirty talk/ masturbation

Sypnosis: It's been a while and Miguel and you are needy for eachother, even if you're universes away.

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"Cariño I just miss you" Miguel's voice came from the computer you had sitting on the desk. You were spinning around in the little chair in your room "I know love" you whispered.

An anomaly had appeared, but the little bastard was sneakier then anyone thought, so here you were stuck with Hobbie in earth 2077 a cyberpunk earth. Hobbie was in the room next door, both of you deciding to rent separate places and stay until the anomaly had been captured. Your normal spider suit had been replaced by something that had Miguel genuinely drooling everytime you would be distracted and his eyes could focus on you.

A skintight latex body suit, the chest being shaped like a heart. Fishnet leggings and heeled boots. A short jacket over your shoulders that did nothing to cover up your figure. Your hair neatly tied to a bun and your makeup, bright colors with black lipstick.

"It's been months and we have no leads on this thing" you mumbled throwing your head back with a groan. And spun around your chair once more.

"I don't want to leave until I've capture that thing" you admitted with a sigh. But as you turned to look at the camera you could see Miguel's eyes in your chest. You quickly blushed knowing your outfit was sensual but you just wanted your best chance at finding information. A few days into the universe and you realized you had it a little easier then Hobbie.

"Maybe you two should come back" Miguel said softly, he missed you, he needed you. You sighed, playing with the necklace on your neck, a pretty letter M written in gold Cursive hung on the necklace.

"Mikki, you're staring" you said with a giggle. Reaching up and slowly undoing your hair bun

His gaze was dark as he stared at your body. "God I miss you" he mumbled with a groan, suppressing his urges.

You could see Miguel staring at you hungrily, you could hear him groaning and shifting in his seat and you smirked.

An idea raised inside of your head. Slowly you unzipped the front of your body suit your eyes never leaving Miguel "sorry, the room got kinda hot" you whispered

"Cariño por favor" he begged with you "Don't tease me" he grumbled

"Come on darling, we both need this" you whispered "take your shirt off"

Miguel's eyes darted around, he groaned and mumbled something in Spanish and locked the door, taking off his Gizmo and turning it off to make sure Lyla wouldn't interrupt them. He took his shirt off and threw it somewhere across the room before sitting back down.

"There, you happy?" He asked sarcastically, but his hand was in his crotch. You hummed in delight "You want me to touch myself for you?" You whispered looking at the camera intensely

He gulped, but you could tell the idea excited him greatly. You picked up your computer, making your way towards the bed instead. "I'm waiting for confirmation O'Hara" you teased placing the computer far away as you sat on the bed, still facing from the chest up for you.

He groaned, knowing you were toying with him. You chuckled, fully taking off the jacket and unzipping the bodysuit fully, throwing it somewhere on the ground. You slowly started massaging your breast for him. Miguel's eyes stared hungrily "God I wish I was there sucking on them myself" he groaned his eyes never leaving your hands on your breast.

"Carajo" he groaned throwing his head back "Yes mi amor please, touch yourself don't leave me like this" he groaned "like what?" You asked innocently, batting your eyelashes at him.

Miguel groaned, moving the camera back and pulling his sweatpants down letting his dick spring free. He slowly started stroking himself watching you.

You smirked, moving the camera down and showing you had only been wearing the fishnet leggings. "I wish you were here to rip them, like this" you whispered and ripped a hole into them, showing your soaked core to him.

You bit your lip as a hand reached for your core, slowly rubbing your clit. "Mira lo mojadita que estás" (look how wet you are) he groaned, his hand quickening. Both of your moans could be heard. It felt so good, finally giving yourself your much needed pleasure.

Miguel's strokes were quick "God I wish I was inside you right now" his deep voice grumbled sending shivers of excitement into you. You shivered at the thought and felt your walls clench around air.

You needed him so desperately, your body aching to be with him, to feel his touch again, his fangs sinking into your skin as his talons dugged into your hips.

The thought alone making you moan and shift in the bed.

From his moans you could tell Miguel was close and the sight was delicious for you his messy brown hair sticking to his face as she sweated profusely. Groans and moans as he bucked his hips up into his hands searching for release.

"Let's cum together darling" you whispered, using your other hand to slip 2 fingers into your core searching for that gummy spot that had you seeing stars.

You both were so focused on your pleasure, eyes closed imagining it was the other. Your pace quickened and in a matter of seconds you saw white, moaning his name loudly as your release spilled out of you. Miguel cursed at the sigh and followed suit, his seed shooting up to his hand and his chest.

Both of you were breathing heavily "Thank you mi amor" he whispered a small smile in his face. "I can't wait for you to be here" he said. Your cheeks flushed, knowing damn well when he got back you wouldn't be able to walk for a while.

[evilneo]

HOUSE OF GOLD (Frenrey Style)

Benrey Benery moves in with his best friend and secret crush Gordon freeman after his gf died in afganistan going to war and then one night gordon gets drunk and then....find out!!!

-part 1,-

Benrey looked at the arpartment where his best friend and crush of 3 years waited. He saw him in the window and he waved at him and his heart started beating to fast. he opened the door

"Hey silly get in!" He said and hen gulped and pulled his luggage into the house. Gordon hugged him

"I've been so lonely since my wife went missing in afganistan."

"That's so brace of her. She loved you.'

Gordon stared at him for a minute.

"Yeah... Let's get you settled in!" And then he helped him to his room.

"It's a one bedroom place so you'll have to share a room with me." He smiled at him.

"It'll be like a sleepover!"

"Totally!" Then there was a knock at the door and Benrey followed drew to the door where they found a girl with long brown hair and big purple eyes waving.

"Hi?" Said gordon.

"Hi" she said flipping her hair back revealing her badass studded belt around her black jeans and black top that had sleeves to her middle arm and skull earrings and black makeup.

"I'm your neighbor Jackie!" She said happily. They both shook her hands.

"If you need anything come on over!" She said and then left.

"She was nice." Said Benrey.

"And pretty cute." Said gordon

And Benrey felt a pain in his heart. Was gordon totally straight? He always wondered if he was bi because of how he flirted with him sometimes on skype. He didn't know if he would tell him he is gay and is in love with him. Then gordon gave him a sweet smile and he felt warm again.

-Heavy-

Gordon made a drink for him and Benrey and sat at the couch and drank beer. They turned on a movie and watched some funny tv shows and drank all nights untill it was 7 am the next morning.

Gordon pointed at the rising sun

"Hey Ben look" he laughed drunk. Ben stumbled over but tripped and fell right into gordons arms!! Suddenly they were starting in each other's eyes. There faces started itching closer and closer when suddenly there was a knock at the door. Gordon blushed and let go of the embrace and went to the door.

"Hello?" He asked as he opened the door. Then there were two guys in black ski masks and they grabbed gordon and threw him down the apartment stairs and ran off. They kidnapped him!!!!

Benrey tried to run after their white van but couldn't run as fast as a car. He called the cops and cried in the apartment. Then suddenly he got a message on youtube that said

"If you want to see him alive again make a video about 10 reasons why the Irate Gamer ripped off Angry Video Game Nerd and ur wrong" he gasped....

-on the 3rd cold night-

There was a knock at the door. Benrey went over to it and gasped.

Forzen!!!

Meanwhile somewhere in coastal rica. Gordon had a bag on his head and he was punched hard.

"Let me go!!! I never got to tell Benrey I love him!!!"

"Well in that case...."

Then he was shoved into a van and they started driving....

Benrey made tea for Forzen and him and forzen looked at him sweetly.

"I'm so sorry. The remaining 10 us military will help you find him."

"I almost kissed him before he.........."

"It's ok" he touched his hand. They looked sweet at each other.

"I'm always here for you......"

Forzen leaned in and kissed Benrey lightly on the lips and in a moment of desire and desperate he pulled Forzen close and kissed him harder. They started making out and Forzen got on Benrey and started rubbing on him. They made out and wiggled around the couch untill Benrey broke away.

"I can't........gordon........."

"Oh.........but he was a loser?"

"Go Forzen go away"

And he grunted and left mad. Benrey went to his room to cry.

-coming home-

The door slowly opened and gordon limped into the apartment and fell on the floor.

"Benrey!" He said horsely.

Benrey stopped crying and ran out and gasped.

"Gordon!!!" And he ran to pick him up and help him stand. Gordon grabbed him and hugged him tight and sudden.....his lips started touching his and they kissed. There tongues meshed and their lips intwined and they made out right there. When they stopped they smiled at each other.

"Be my boyfriend?" Said Benrey.

"Yes." And they smiled and kissed again.

"But I have to tell you gordon....before you came back forzen was here and...and...and we made out."

"Frozan?!" He roared.

"I'm sorry....." Gordon started crying and ran down the stairs. Then Jackie looked gordons way that he was running and than came in. Benrey was crying and told her what was going on.

"You should do something romantic to show your story and that he is your one and only!"

"Your right!" He wiped the tears off and jackie grabbed a camera and started recording.

Benrey looked soully to the camera with love in his eyes.

"Hi skeletons today I finally told gordon I love him like I said I would. But before that someone else came over and I kissed them. I love you gordon and it will never happen again. You are my light and joy and I would be proud to be....be your husband." He said softly. Then jackie whipped a tear from her face and sniffled and turned off the camera.

"That was amazing I'm sure he will say yes. It's true love!" She said.

-the story so far-

Warning: suicide and sex scene

Meanwhile in chigaco gordon was at a sushi restaurant when someone sat beside him.

"gordon freeman?" He said. He looked up.

"Forzen?!" He almost flinched.

"Yeah I heard you and Benrey had a rough thing happen.

Then he posted this..." And he pulled out his phone and went to a video and opened it to let him watch. Benrey was looking at the camera intense and started talking.

"Today I finally told gordon it will never happen again. Never kiss him again. I am with someone else." And then there was a sniffled sound and someone was behind the camera?!

Benrey started to cry silently but tried to look together.

"Let me buy you a drink." And Forzen ordered sake (an asian drink).

They started drinking and talking and laughing and having a good time.

"Maybe I was wrong about you Forzen." Said Gordon. Forzen put his arm around him confrotingly.

"Of course baby!"

They both drunkenly left the bar and stumbled to the hotel room forzen was staying in. Forzen started kissing him and pushing him to the bed and they made out there. Then they started doing it. But gordon didn't know about the camera!!! It was being live streamed!!!

"I love you Forzen!!!!" Cried gordon on the stream. Benrey and Jackie watched shocked and dumb founded as they watched. Jackie looked at Benrey then black at the video.

"H-how could he?!" Benrey stromed around the house. Jackie tried to call him down. But benrey opened the window....AND JUMPED Jackie screamed and called 011.

-believer-

Gordon woke up with a hangover and threw up. Then he heard his phone ring and he picked it up. It was jackie yelling I to the phone and calling him shit for what he did to Benrey.

"What?" Said gordon. "he said he found someone else?"

"What?! No he didn't. I'm sending you the cideo he made for you." Then she hung up and he got the notification for it. He opened it and his lover spoke words of love right from the heart. He spun around and glared at Forzen. "You liar!!!" He screamed. Then he threw his phone at Forzen and ran out.

Meanwhile in the suicide hospital.... Benrey was sitting in a chair watching a TV show when a nurse said "you have a guest". He expected Jackie again with some McDonald's or something but instead....gordon. He flinched.

"What do you want traitor" he hissed at him. "Forzen lied to me. He made me think you moved on and I slept with him..."

"Are we even? Can we be together?"

"If you can forgive me."

"I do. Forgive me?"

"Yes."

Then they embraced and kissed. Benrey pulled away and knelt down and pulled a box out.

"I was going to do this somewhere better but...will you marry me?"

Gordon cried happy tears and nodded and they made out again.

"Let's get you outta here!" Said gordon and they left holding hands.

-chain reaction-

Benrey got out of bed where his fiance was sleeping and he went I to the bathroom. Then he spotted something in the sink that he guessed gordon forgot. He picked it out of the sink and looked. It had two lines and was...a pregnancy test.

He busted out of the bathroom

"G-gordon?" He said and gordon sleepily got up and then gawked at what was in his hand

"Il-i..."

"What is this?! Are you....."

He looked down ashamed.

"I am going to the doctor tomorrow to check...please...go with me...they can do a test..."

He gulped.

"Ok. In the morning."

They waited in the office of the Dr office untill they called Gordons name. They went in and the Dr came into the checkup room they were in.

"Are you his husband?" Asked the doctor. Benrey nodded.

"Well we have to test his pee so if you'd step outside..." And he did and went back in after the doctor came out with a cup of pee to test it. He sat next to gordon and helped his hand.

The doctor came back in an stared at his chart.

"Well Mr freeman...you are pregnant. And Mr Benrey isn't the father..."

They both dropped there jaws......

To be continue

-White Wedding part 1-

It was a hot July day and the concert hall was decked in white everywhere. Gordon and Benrey invited there fans for free to see there wedding but so many wanted to come that they had to get a concert hall. There was a preacher and a pretty white arch and music playing and food outside. In the room with drew he was putting on his white suit and brushing his hair. He got a knock at the door and someone popped in.

It was Cummer and darnold Peppre!

"H3!!" He said and they went over to hug him.

"I'm so excited for you!" Said Darnald.

"Thanks. Coomer...will you walk me down the isle? My dad doesn't accept I'm gay and won't do it." He started to cry a little. Coomer hugged him

"Of course buddy" and he out out his arm and he looked it and they walked slowly out. They stood at the start of the red carpet that went to the arch and gordon laughed nervous and coomer Pat his arm and they started walking as the wedding song started playing. The fans went crazy and clapped and they stopped at the preacher and stood by him and waited.

They looked at the entrance and waited for Benrey...first. jackie came out to be bridesmaid and Tommy coolatta did to. They looked so pretty. Then.....Bubby came out with Benrey on his arm. They both smiled and Benrey blushed wearing his baby blue tux. Gordon started crying because he loved him so much.

The music kept playing and Tommy coolatta dogs sunkist were in front of them with little rose petals baskets in there mouths and petals flew everywhere as they ran up the isle.

Benrey stood across him and they looked at each other with Misty eyes.

The prest smiled at them both and started talking.

"Gordon Freeman do you take Benrey Benery to be your husband to hold and love forever as long as you both live?" Gordon nodded

"Yes I do"

"And Benrey Benery do you take gordon freeman to be your husband to love and cherish for as long as you live?"

"I do!" Said Benrey.

The fans all looked so happy and crying and Jackie and tommy and Coomer and darnold and bubby all cried happily too.

"If anyone thinks these two should not be married speak now!"

And the room got quiet and nobody breathed. Then someone stood up from the crowd and jumped on stage. It was Forzen!!!!!

"Forzen?!" Benrey said.

"Yes! I don't think they should get married! He's carrying my baby!!" He shouted and the whole room gasped. Gordon started crying and wished he was somewhere else. Forzen fans started screaming for Forzen and gordon to get married. Then Coomer started going in to Forzen to push him away from the stage.

Then suddenly fights started breaking out with all the fans and gordon and Benrey ran away and the others escorted them. They all got to the limo and drove off fast.

To be continued

-white wedding 2-

"benrey! Gordon! Come out here!"

Coomer and darnold and Tommy and Jackie and Bubby were outside the cabin they were staying in til everything blew over. Benrey looked out the window and gasped. Outside was a big tellise with roses and lots of food on a table and music started playing. There was balloons and everyone was wearing dressed up. No way! They went outside.

"What is this?!" They both asked blushing.

"We felt bad about what happened so we made you a nice private wedding with just us." Said Jackie with a big smiled. They all hugged and Coomer said "I can marry you I do jewish weddings but it can still count for you." He said.

Then Benrey put out his hand and gordon took it.

"Shall we?"

He nodded and took his hand. He led him to the roses and Coomer stood in btween them.

"Now, gordon freeman do you take Benrey Benery to be your husband? Will you love and cherish him in sickness and health?"

"I do" he said softly.

"And Benrey Benery do you take gordon freeman to be your lovely husband through poor and riches? For as long as you both live?"

"Yes I do" said drew back.

Coomer smiled.

"First....gordon...."

"Yes babe?"

"I want you to know....I want to adopt the baby."

Gordon had happy tears in his eyes and Coomer said "I now pronouns you man and husband"

And they fell Into a kiss.

The end

[cherryeol04]

Valentine’s Surprise

➻ Pairings: Minho x Chan

➻ Genre: slice of life, romance, college au, wolf au

➻ Additional:  humor, angst, misunderstandings, soulmates au

➻ Word Count: 3.5K

➻ Warnings: 

➻ Author’s notes: This story is cross posted on multiple sites under the same username!

“And then Mr. Kim mansplained why doing the project earlier was more beneficial.” Minho sighed, closing his eyes at the memory, though mostly to help ease the tension in his eyes from staring at the glowing screen in front of him. Though he didn’t keep them closed for long, not wanting to miss a moment of seeing Chan’s beautiful face. It was hard for them to get time to talk like this. Even if Chan was only a few more hours ahead of him in time zones, they both lead pretty busy lives. So Minho was greedy when it came to his time with his boyfriend.

“And what could he have possibly explained -”

“Mansplained.” Minho corrected and Chan rolled his eyes lovingly at the other.

“You’re a man too, babe.” 

Snorting, Minho crossed his arms, glaring at Chan as hard as he could, though judging by the laughter, he probably came off more of like a cute kitten as Chan has often told him. “It’s the principal of it, Channie. He was talking down to me like I was some helpless omega.” he scoffed. “I wouldn’t put it past him to be the type of person that still believes an omega’s place is in the home, caring for twenty litters of pups.”

“Twenty - oh my god.” Chan choked. “That’s an excessive amount of pups, don’t you think?” he asked, eyeing the screen warily. 

“Of course not!” Minho grinned as he leaned in closer, eyes locking on the camera lens. “Don’t you want to have a big family with me, Channie?” This time he was pouting and perhaps laying it on a little thick. Though it was worth it as he watched Chan’s cheeks heat up, despite the graininess of the video call. Even Chan’s HD camera was no match for Skype’s shit quality. “Hmm?”

“Of course I do, Minho.” Chan cleared his throat. “But twenty is definitely too many pups to have. We’d be eaten out of house and home.” Well, Chan did have a point about that. Okay, maybe they wouldn’t have that many pups, but they would at least have one and that thought alone pleased his wolf in ways that Minho really didn’t want to acknowledge. He wasn’t the type that liked to rely on his instincts and be the “typical” omega type. But there was something about Chan that had him wanting to do all the homely things that many associated with his second gender. He wanted to provide a wonderful home and family for his alpha.

“You win this round, Mr. Bang.” he teased as he sat back in his chair. “But just so you know, this war isn’t over.” He giggled, beaming when Chan laughed as well. He loved the way Chan laughed - how his shoulders shook and eyes turned into crescents. And his dimples were always on display when he laughed. They were possibly Minho’s favorite part of Chan’s body. Their happy little bubble burst when Chan’s alarm went off, startling them both. Minho watched with sad eyes as he picked it up and turned off the annoying sound before looking back at him.

“I have to go.” He whispered.

“I know.” Minho could feel the sadness radiating off of Chan through the computer and he was sure it was the same for the other. Ending their calls was always the worst, but they couldn’t stay on video all the time, as much as Minho liked to argue. Even with all his cunning ideas, it still wouldn’t work out, but he gave it a valiant effort every time. “I miss you.” He could feel the heat dusting his cheeks, but decided to ignore it. He hadn’t meant to say that out loud, but it was too late to take back the words. Not that he was lying or anything. He really did miss Chan, even with him right in front of him like this.

“I miss you too, Minnie.” Minho’s heart fluttered, chest swelling with an emotion he had felt so many times that it could only be love. That or it was heartburn and he still hadn’t deciphered which it was yet. “I love you.”

Minho scrunched up his face, looking away to avoid making a fool of himself. He wanted to giggle, or coo or flail about. Every time Chan said those words, he had such a visceral reaction that he just couldn’t handle himself. “I love you too…I guess.” he shrugged, hoping his voice sounded as indifferent as he wanted it to be.

“I would hope, you’re kinda stuck with me for life.” Chan lifted his right wrist, his fingers grazing over the mark and watching it glow a beautiful golden yellow. Looking down his left wrist, Minho watched as his own mark glowed, reacting to his soulmate, even though they were miles apart. 

“Wouldn’t have it any other way.” He whispered, lifting his eyes back to the screen. “You should go. Text me when you get home.” 

“Always.” Chan grinned. “Remember to eat today.” Chan’s set him with a stern gaze.

“I will.” He probably wouldn’t, especially if he got wrapped up in the choreography for his upcoming dance evaluation. But Chan didn’t need to know that, right now at least. 

“Good. Talk to you later, baby.”

“Bye.” Minho always refused to be the one to end the call, and he silently hoped each and every time that Chan wouldn’t end the call either. But just like all the previous times, the call ended and Minho was left in nothing but the static silence of his bedroom - feeling alone. His wolf howled in agony, the dramatic little thing because he knew it wasn’t the end of their relationship. Chan would text like always, Minho was sure of that, but trying to convince his wolf of that was like talking to a brick wall. 

So Minho resigned himself to his daily cycle of sadness and forced himself out of his chair to go and get ready for dance practice. At least if he was doing something, he wouldn’t notice the sadness as much. 

------

Felix stared worriedly as Minho paced the floor of their practice room. He looked flushed and agitated and if it wasn’t for the thick Eucalyptus scent wafting from the other, Felix would have been inclined to believe that Minho was sick. 

He felt that way. Minho felt absolutely nauseated- wrought with worry because Chan had stopped answering his calls and texts. Minho would be understanding if it had been a one time occurance, or if Chan called him back, but he didn’t. For the past couple of days, no matter what Minho did, Chan never answered. His read receipts were suddenly turned off as well as his location services. Every phone call would ring twice before going straight to voicemail and Chan’s status on Skype was always offline. 

It’s like the man just disappeared off the face of the Earth! How was that even possible? For a popular and good looking alpha like chan to just go missing?

Minho froze in his tracks as a horrendous thought crossed his mind. What if Chan was cheating on him? 

He snorted to himself. No, not Chan. He was as loyal as one person could possibly be and not a mean bone in his body. He wouldn’t cheat.

But…

It was the only explanation for the sudden behavior change. It all made sense if he thought about it. And it’s not like he could blame Chan. They were separated by miles of land and ocean, and at least two if not three time zones. They’ve only ever seen each other through video calls. Their relationship was the epitome of long-distance. 

“Hyung.”

What if Chan had met someone else? Someone prettier and better? More willing to bend to the stereotypical behavior of an omega? Someone who didn’t sass back as much as Minho did. Who expressed themselves better than Minho ever could? Someone who was within arms reach that Chan could touch and hold and kiss and…mate with.

“Hyung?”

What if Chan had met a better mate and was getting ready to break their soulmate bond?

“Minho hyung!” 

Jerking back at the touch to his cheek, Minho blinked rapidly, clearing the tears blurring his vision. Since when had he started crying? Frowning, he reached out and wiped the tears aways with a little more aggression than necessary. Stupid tears. Stupid emotions. Stupid Chan!

“Minho hyung, what’s wrong?” Minho knew Felix had been standing there, but it wasn’t until that moment that he actually registered his presence fully. The younger beta was staring at him with such worried eyes that Minho wanted to cower from the gaze. He didn’t want to feel like a burden. 

“Nothing.” He spat and immediately regretted his words at the forlorn expression tossed his way and was quick to apologize. “I’m sorry.” 

“It’s okay hyung.” Felix whispered, eyes shaking with emotion. “But something is wrong.” He stated firmly. “You can tell me, I want to try and help.”

Minho took a few shuddering breaths, trying to calm himself down because he certainly didn’t want to snap at Felix again. He really was only trying to help. And it’s not like he put these horrible thoughts in Minho’s brain. No, Minho only had himself to blame (and Chan). “It’s really nothing.” He tried to assure, but faltered. “Actually…Chan stopped texting me and answering my calls.” He said slowly. “Did he mention anything to you about…anything really?”

There was a look of realization that crossed Felix’s features only to be quickly replaced by a look of deliberation. Minho squinted at him, poking his side a few times. 

“Felix…what do you know?”

“Huh? Um, well…” the way Felix trailed off was a bit suspicious, like he was trying to think up an excuse. “I remember him saying something about a deadline and you know Channie hyung gets when he’s composing.”

Oh yes, Minho knew first hand how wrapped up in his work Chan could get. But even when focused on his work, Chan would always call him back when he was done. This wasn’t normal working Chan behavior. But the fact that Felix didn’t seem worried did help to put the Omega’s worries at ease. If only slightly. 

“I guess.” He muttered, heaving another sigh. Reaching up, he rubbed his cheeks, taking note of how hot they were, but that was to be expected. He was still pretty worked up. “Whatever. Let’s just start practice.”

“You sure hyung?”

“Yeah.” Turning, Minho headed over to the counter and started the music, effectively ending all conversations. 

——

Minho really should have listened to his body more. Despite the fact that he had been hot during practice, he had told himself at the time that it was just because he was upset. And that wasn’t a lie. He had been upset and was still upset, even days later. It was going on a week and half since he last heard from Chan and no matter how hard he pressed Felix, the younger Australian had no information about his older cousin. And that only added to the stress and worry and negative thoughts. But even all that couldn’t explain how hot he was becoming. He should have realized days ago that this was a sign his heat was coming, but Minho was so wrapped up in the “cheating” scandal he had fabricated in his mind that he lapsed in caring for himself.

Now he lay prone on his bed - a naked, panting mess that absolutely refused to do anything to help ease the pain. And why would he when the one thing - one person that helped him through his heats was missing in action. Over the three years that Minho knew Chan, the other had always been there for him, talking him through each orgasm until they were both a trembling, sticky mess on a video screen. Not the ideal way Minho wanted to be with Chan, but he would take anything and everything he could get. 

But his alpha was gone and he was in pain. It was like his body knew Chan wasn’t there and was rebelling against him like it was Minho’s fault. His wolf was antsy, howling and searching for that connection, but in his heat induced delirium, he couldn’t find it. Had Minho had a better grip on his thoughts, he would have known their bond wasn’t broken if he only touched his mark. But as it was, he could barely remember his own name as he writhed and curled up into a ball as another cramp claimed him. A harsh sob wretched itself from his throat and all he could think about was just wishing for the heat to end.

A sudden knock to his door pulled Minho out of his spiraling thoughts, the fog momentarily lifting as he tried his hardest to process what had just happened. Another knock sounded shortly after, leaving Minho confused. Who would be at his apartment now of all times? He had already called off work, put in his absences with his professors and told his friends he would be out of commission for the next week. Everyone who needed to know he was going through his heat, knew, so they wouldn’t be coming to his apartment. At least he hoped not. It would be highly unprofessional if his boss or professors decided to pay him a visit. And while the thought of a teacher-student or boss-employee relationship was appealing, the only person he wanted in that authoritative role was Chan.

But Chan wasn’t there. He was probably off screwing some omega and starting his happy life while Minho laid there suffering. Begging and pleading for a higher power to bring Chan back to him. He absolutely hated this.

Another knock and Minho snapped. He pushed through the pain of the cramps, forcing himself up and out of his bed. The thought of putting on clothes sickened him, body too overheated to be confined, but he knew he couldn’t answer the door naked. Well he could, but the resulting consequence that may happen far outweighed and won over the need to be comfortable. So Minho pulled on his pajama pants and left the safety of his bedroom. The once stale air of the house came alive with a mixture of mint and eucalyptus as Minho made his way to the front door. As he reached it, another knock sounded and without so much as a care of who could be on the other side, Minho yanked the door open harshly.

“What the fuck-” he stopped mid sentence, eyes widening as he took in the body before him. “C-Chan?” There stood a very sheepishly looking alpha. His normally styled hair, now just a heap of messy black curls. There was not a lick of makeup on his face and if Minho squinted hard enough, he could make out the very light dusting of freckles along his cheeks, just like Chan had always said he had. It was a family thing, though Felix had been more blessed in that area with a whole galaxy of freckles covering his face. He was adorned in all black, but that wasn’t something unusual as it seemed to be Chan’s favorite color. 

“Hey, Minho.” He said, voice barely a whisper as he looked Minho over slowly. Minho watched the way his pupils seemed to dilate, steadily growing blacker the longer he looked at him. He felt so vulnerable under the gaze, yet desired, especially as Chan’s tongue swiped across his lips. As Chan dragged his eyes back up, he seemed to come back to himself, the tips of his ears turning a beautiful shade of red as he held out his hand, thrusting a bouquet of red and purple Baby’s Breath towards him.

Minho was stunned, blinking rapidly as he tried to formulate some sort of coherent sentence that wouldn’t sound dumb, but everything he came up with always fell flat. He wanted to interrogate Chan on where he had been and why he hadn’t been answering his calls and texts. Another part of him wanted to ask why he was even there. In the end, he settled on probably the safest topic as he took the offered bouquet. “You remembered.” 

“Of course I did. I remember everything you tell me.” Chan chuckled softly before clearing his throat. “Except for when your heat is supposed to hit.”  Minho tore his eyes away from the flowers to glare at Chan, the alpha gulping in response.

“You would have known if you had answered my calls!” he snapped. “Where the hell have you been?! Do you know how worried I was? What’s her name?”

“Huh? What?” Chan was taken aback by the angry outburst.

“What’s her name?”

“Who?”

“Don’t play dumb with me, Bang Chan. You went off the grid for over a week and you don’t think I wouldn’t know that you’re cheating on me?” he growled. “I never would have thought you would be such a no good, low down alpha to-to do this!” Minho was angry, his scent spiking exponentially. Unfortunately it wasn’t its usual sour scent. Nothing could mask the smell of his heat and the more worked up Minho became, the more potent and thick the scent filled the air.

“Baby, I don’t think this is the best place for this. Your heat.”

“This is the best place for this!” Minho snapped at him. “You have some fucking audacity to show up at my door step -” Minho paused, brows knitting together as he stared at Chan before looking around the empty apartment hallway behind him. “How did you know where I live?”

“Felix.”

“Felix?” Minho huffed and crossed his arms over his bare chest. “I knew he knew something.” 

Chan laughed, though Minho was not amused. “Yeah, he knew. I had been planning this for months.”

“You had been planning to cheat on me for months?”

“What? No!” Chan groaned and rubbed the back of his neck in frustration. “Baby I’m not cheating on you. I was planning to surprise you by visiting.”

“Surprise me? By visiting?” he parroted as if repeating the words would help him understand better. “So you turned off read receipts, turned off your location services and stopped answering my calls and texts because you were coming to visit me?”

“Yes.” Chan nodded quickly. “Surprise! Happy Valentine’s day.”

“Valentine’s…” Minho trailed off, thoughts racing a mile a minute - each train of thought getting lost in the fog of his heat as the inferno grew stronger. This was crazy, ludicrous even but made more sense than Chan cheating on him. “Oh my god.” he whispered.

“Yeah, so then. Can I come in?”

Minho stared blankly at him before stepping back quickly. “Yes, come in, come in.” he ushered the other in. “Don’t mind the mess, I didn’t have time to clean. Been lost in my-”

“Heat. Yeah, I know.” Chan chuckled. “The whole building probably knows now.” Minho flushed as he closed the door quickly and locked it, sliding the chain for extra protection because Chan was indeed right. The whole building probably could smell him now and he didn’t need an unwanted alpha or beta to try and force their way into his home just because he smelled so alluring.

“Probably.” he muttered as he leaned back against the door, staring at Chan. “ I still can’t believe you’re here. I thought…I was so stupid.” Shaking his head, he gave a small laugh. “You were just coming to visit me. I swear to god Channie.” Chan chuckled as he stepped closer to him and gently pulled Minho into his arms - cradling him so carefully it was like he was made out of glass. And maybe he was. Minho certainly felt delicate enough at the moment. His body was in turmoil; hormones raging as he felt like he was burning alive while simultaneously being stabbed to death. The cramps were no joke.

But for a moment, Minho’s mind was cleared of all thoughts of his heat. This was the first time Chan was holding him, touching him. Minho had waited for this moment for too long. Had dreamt of this very moment more times than he could count and yet he never thought it would happen so soon - so unexpectedly. His heart skipped a beat, racing in his chest as he snuggled into Chan’s embrace, resting his head on the other’s shoulder. “Channie,” he whispered.

“Yes, love?” Minho’s fingers curled in Chan’s shirt, clutching the fabric tightly as he nuzzled into his neck. 

“I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay. I probably would have thought the same thing, honestly.” Chan placed a gentle kiss on the top of Minho’s head. “I love you Minho.”

“Love you more.”

Chan hummed softly, running his fingers through Minho’s hair. It felt so nice and soothing. And for the first time in a while, Minho felt complete. “How about we go and take care of your heat, hmm?” Minho could only nod eagerly, letting himself be dragged off to his bedroom.

Tags: @sauceracha @jisungsjheekies @luminouskalopsia @hanjisungismybaby @imbonibi @jiwlys @leafsmindpalace @army-of-carats @peachmilkcloud @letterstoskz @lauraneuuh @babyskz @stay-here-dont-stray @meen1ez @slinekyu @feedthefandoms995 @schokoshaker @rejemi @ahhhhhhhhhghh @thsrndkd @halotopicecream @skzmonstercat-blog @jumunnaa @serendipityryn @yayaistime @bxddiebang @sachifukyo @eastleighsblog (Tag info here! Come and join!)

[dalhyp]

Naked HypnoCon 2023

This year, HypnoCon was located in Palm Springs, California. Friday we first gathered at The Toolshed Bar which was incredibly packed with men. Everyone was eventually found and we sat outside for a few drinks as friends and new attendants met. After that, we went to dinner at Grand Central. Then some of the people went to other bars, the rest decided to stay at resort, the El Mirasol Resort, a clothing-optional resort with a hot tub and a couple of pools. I thought I would be self-conscious about it, however THAT quickly went away.

Saturday morning, we met at the LBGT Community Center. And for introductions we gave the name we preferred to be called, how many HypnoCon’s we’ve attended, and if we were a hypnotist, subject, or switch. There were a few new faces. The learning session began at the very beginning, hypnosis 101. From Pre-talk, to Induction, to Deepening, to Suggestion, to Reentry, to Post-talk, each step of a typical hypnosis session for recreational purposes was discussed and demonstrated. Some very good subjects sat in the front of the group and experienced each part firsthand. I did deepening, which included convincers. I ran out of different deepening techniques, so I made a new one – silence. 

            The group moved on to some of the history of HypnoCon, how it started, and the reason it keeps moving around. From the @gayhypnosis channel in the past, a few names stood out as pillars of that channel. One of those people was Hypnojob (his handle now) AKA EnTranceU (his handle in the @gayhypnosis channel). He talked about those days and moving to newer forms of electronic communication such as Discord and Skype. He does have a Skype Hypnosis Chat Room. I just joined it and it does bring back memories of the @gayhypnosis channel. If you want to explore, first be very interested in hypnosis, and second reach out to @Hypnojob on Skype to request an invitation to the group. Some great questions regarding the typical session and recreational hypnosis in general flew as we concluded, took the “wish you were here” photo, and then went to lunch. Most of us went to Denny’s – this was not a high point. 

            HypnoCon continued after lunch with an exercise to demonstrate fractionation. People who want to experience fractionation as a subject sat in a circle facing outward. The people that wanted to show fractionation as a hypnotist proceeded to induce trance and then fractionation. Since we had about 30 people, the process took a bit of time, however, there were some people who experienced deep trance. I got to be the subject for a demonstration of the “Yes” induction method. I think I got through seven or eight “yeses” before collapsing into a deep trance and then being brought out of the trance way too quickly! Some toys that hypnotists can use are shown next from pendulums to pocket watches, to a “mind machine” that uses flashing LED lights at specific frequency of flashes to bring trance. Some of the participants played with the toys. We then departed to get ready for dinner, which was at Billy Reeds. Dinner tasted wonderful and we then disbanded for the evening. I personally took more naked time at the hot tub where a couple of fun things happened. First, I got into a staring contest with a fellow hypnotist. I started to wonder who the hypnotist was, until he said, “You are getting very relaxed.” 

            “Oh, I guess, I’m the subject.” I thought and proceeded to go into a nice deep trance where the water relaxed me even more. The other wonderful thing is that a subject proceeded to be hypnotized by me using a non-verbal induction for the first time. That was quite the ego boost!

            The next morning, we ate brunch at Sherman’s Deli. We, and by “we,” I mean most of the people who organized this event, decided to forgo the usual discussion on which city to go next and opted instead for a different approach. Searching cruise vacations, we found the from Boston, a cruise that travels north so that people can watch the foliage turn colors, departs the Sunday of Hypnocon. So, the proposal became that HypnoCon goes to Boston next year, and have the usual Friday and Saturday. On Sunday though, the gathering continues as it does with an informal group setting at the host hotel so that more specialized topics can be discussed and shown in small groups or begin the above-mentioned cruise. The idea was ratified by a general proclamation (nobody complained too loudly), and we then went back to the resort for some small group discussion and generally be laid back and, of course, naked. 

            Now I come to you dear reader, if you are interested in helping organize the next HypnoCon in Boston, please let me know by emailing me at Dalhyp@yahoo.com. HypnoCon has an operating budget of zero dollars, assistance in contacting venues for dinners and entertainment, asking people of interest to come to the gathering, and fresh ideas are greatly appreciated!

[miniteezez]

Jungkook x fem reader

Isolation

Genre: fluff, lockdown, cute

Warning: injuries? Not detailed.

A/n: I'm currently writing a yoongi ff that's gonna be a little longer. These shorter one shots were written in 2021 during lockdown. They were written with other idols in mind also.

Day thirty - six in isolation, I sighed as I made my way out into my balcony. It was currently six pm. Cold out but still beautiful as the sun set over the mountains. Cup of hot tea cupped between my two hands, I took a sip whole staring out at the view. A flock of blackbirds flew over making me smile as they cried out their call. No people were around, obviously all stuck at home, apart from the few people delivering people's weekly food shop. My eyes shut as I took in the air which recently seemed much fresher, easier to breath in. That was due to lack of pollution, the one good thing to come out of all this mess. Hearing the flick of a lighter disturb my peace , I opened my eyes and looked to my left seeing a boy around my age, maybe slightly older, burning a photograph. I didn't know my neighbours as I had just moved to this apartment before lockdown begun, but right now I wish I did. He looked depressed, like something had hit him really hard. Watching the picture burn, he waited till the flames nearly touched his fingers before letting it fall.

"Are you Okay?" My voice was quiet but the boy heard and turned to look at me. Immediately he rubbed his face and cleared his throat.

"Yeah I'm fine." His voice shook indicating the lie he was telling me. Pressing my lips together, I glanced around thinking for a few seconds before looking back at him. It was a stupid idea and also illegal but the good person in me didn't care.

"Do you want to come over?"

"I'm not allowed.. " Sighing at his response I shrugged,

"Well yeah technically but, if we've both been isolating whats the Harm? It looks like you need someone right now." He blinked fast and nod before heading inside and locking the balcony door. Quickly, I went to my front door and opened it seeing him already there with his hand up ready to knock. Stepping aside, I let him in and took him to where my couch was. He sat down and stared at his lap, clearly anxious.

"What's your name? I'm (y/n)." I asked as I too sat beside him, keeping a little distance so I didn't scare him off.

"Jungkook..thanks for inviting me over..I was going crazy alone." He admitted, looking at me grateful, I just smiled.

"Didn't you think to message or Skype with your friends?" His face dropped, eyes watering. Bringing his hands up to rub his eyes, he mumbled.

"I dont have any, not anymore..." figuring this topic was the reason for his sadness, I scooted closer and placed a hand on his shoulder.

"Do you wanna rant about it? That will help lift the weight off I promise." Feeling him physically relax against my touch, he nod and took a deep breath in and began.

"I grew up with this guy..and he was the best friend ever. I really loved him like a brother but..just before all this he stole some money from me then pinned all my friends against him saying I'd beat him up.. " tears ran down his cheeks while he took a second to gather himself before continuing, I held his hand which he gripped tight.

"I didn't hurt him..but he..he did hurt me. When I caught him stealing I confronted him so he beat me..still have the cuts..cos he came back last week to try and "sort it out"..he just ended up getting mad." Jungkook put his head down, that's when I saw some of the bruises on his skin.

"I'm really sorry, you don't deserve that." I wrapped my arms around him, gently hugging him. He hugged back, burying his face into my neck for comfort as my hand rubbed his back soothingly. Feeling him wince a few times, I pulled back and looked at him.

"Want me to treat your wounds?"

"Do you know how?" He asked nervously, looking away I replied.

"I've had to treat a few of my own so, yeah." So I got up and lead kook into my bathroom helping him to sit on the edge of the tub. Whilst my back was turned, he slipped his shirt off and placed it next to him. Looking back at him, I could feel my face heating up. He was full of tattoos, once concealed by his shirt. Not expecting that, I ignored it and applied cream to the dark bruises that were dotted around his chest, arms and back. There was a deep cut on his shoulder so I aided it with ointment and placed a large plaster over it.

"You need to change it once a day. Otherwise it will get infected." He pouted and put his shirt back on carefully as I tidied everything away.

"Can you do it for me?"

"You'd have to come round every day." Immediately he smiled and nod standing up.

"Okay I will. It will be fun. Plus we'll both enjoy the company." He beamed making me smile.

A few weeks later, I was laying in bed around two pm just scrolling through my phone. Hearing my door open, I didn't even bother to look knowing who it was.

"Why are you still in bed?" Kooks voice didn't even make me flinch as he came over and laid beside me. Just shrugging, I hid under the covers only to feel arms wrapping around me. Instantly I relaxed and leant into his warmth.

"Come on you need to get up, keep your body clock going in the right way. Let's bake cookies." Smiling at his words, I nod and got myself up. We made our way to my kitchen and began to mix the dough. Once I had put the mixture in the oven, I turned seeing jungkook eating what dough was left in the bowl making me pull a face in disgust.

"You'll get food poisoning."

"Dont care." Together we laughed. I washed everything up, he dried then put the dishes away, helping me to get everything done right. Within twenty minutes, the cookies were done and kook got them out of the oven, placing the tray on the stove. Sitting myself on the counter, he took a hot cookie and fed me one whilst standing infront of me, between my legs. Nodding my head I looked up at him approvingly.

"Its really good...what's Up?" Noticing him staring at my lips, I asked him this. Instead of responding, he leant down and kissed the corner of my mouth then licked his lips.

"You had some chocolate there.." after staring at him in shock for a few seconds, I wrapped my arms around his neck, pulling him down and kissing him properly. Eagerly, he kissed back, hands on my waist and inching slightly closer. Pulling away slowly, I smiled shyly and buried my face into his chest, making him chuckle. Jungkook ran his hand over my hair gently.

"I'm glad you let me in.." he spoke quietly , looking down then kissing my head. I looked up at him, a giant smile on my lips.

"So am I. I'm glad I could help to heal you." Nodding at me, he pecked my lips again before sealing me in a tight hug. Maybe lockdown isn't so bad after all.

[magicalqueennightmare]

Sins & Amends Chapter 4

(Gif by @ banditthewriter)

Billy Russo x Female Reader (60 part story)

This follows pre- the punisher into the storyline of daredevil, punisher season 1 and beyond

This is NOT Canon Billy. This is decent human being Billy left with bad options over worse decisions

This was also posted to A03 under: WaywardGaPeach. That account and this one is the only place you'll see me post this. If you see it on any other platform/account know it's not me.

Chapter Summary: You help Maria through another deployment while writing Billy as well. Once the guys hit stateside there's no denying you and Mr Russo are indeed friends

The first time you sat down to write Billy you found yourself staring at the notebook. What were you going to say? You knew so many letters came off as repetitive and you didn't want to sound like that. Writing Frank was simple enough you covered anything and everything to do with Maria and the kids but what to tell Billy?

After a moment you took a breath then finally put pen to paper. You told him small things like the new med bag your partner Alice had surprised you with for your birthday all the way to how a recent call had pushed you to the extent of your knowledge. After a few minutes you realized you had an entire letter written. You didn't quite know how to sign it so you simply put "Stay safe" at the end then laid it next to your jacket so you wouldn't forget to drop it in the mail come the next morning.

After that first letter you weren't really expecting him to write you back. The most you'd ever even see Maria and the kids get from him was a short thanks for the card or whatever had been sent to him.

It was a little over a month before you got a letter back from him and it was a pleasant surprise. You got it out your mail box and tucked it into the top of your bag before heading to the elevator. Maria and the kids wanted you to come over for dinner but you had enough time to read the letter then shower and change.

You dropped your bag by the door and pulled the letter out then walked into the kitchen while you tore it open. The first line was his usual snark of "Oh sweetheart how can I not be safe" You leaned against the counter and found a smile slipping onto your face the further you read. He of course talked about Frank and told you a few stories of the other men out his unit and even a few of their unclassified missions. He wished you a belated birthday and commended you on doing everything you could during the call. By the end of the letter you were wishing it was longer.

Your smile grew when you saw that at the end of the letter he'd written "I'll try to write more when I can but this is kind of new to me.Thanks for this though. It was a nice change"

You walked over and tucked the letter in with your notebooks and envelopes making a mental note to write him again as soon as you could before heading to grab a quick shower after checking the time.

It didn't take very long before writing Billy became part of your usual routine. You'd get a letter every couple weeks or so and would send him one back within a day of getting his. You started looking forward to checking your mail in hopes of a new letter being in there. It seemed the more you wrote Billy the more he was letting you see into who he really was even more.

You were staying over with Maria and the kids due to a storm coming through and Lisa not being the biggest fan of thunder when Frank managed to Skype them. All of you were squashed onto the love seat huddled around Maria's laptop when Frank's face came into view. You smiled just seeing how happy Maria and the kids were to see him.

He talked to all of you for a while then his attention started darting off screen and you were worried for a moment the call would get cut short until Billy appeared over his shoulder with a broad smile "Uncle Billy!" Lisa and Frank Jr giggled. "Hey squirts, Maria" he greeted and Maria smiled "Hey Billy. Taking care of my husband?" "Oh yes ma'am" he replied with a wink then he looked directly at you so Maria slid the laptop into your lap.

"Hey Y/N" "Hey Billy. How you doing?" even over a fuzzy connection those dark eyes drew you into them and you had to bite the inside of your cheek to remind yourself he was firmly friend zone for soo many reasons. "Can't complain cause even if I did Frankie will probably just throw something at my head anyways" You tried and failed to stifle a laugh. "Well then don't complain around him unless you have your helmet on" "I'll be sure to remember that. Anyways just wanted to say hey Frankie's about to knock me out the chair to get the computer back but take care I'll write again soon"

"She has a account too Bill" Frank cut in so since you were already outed you nodded "Yea want the name?" "Yea sure" after you told him your username and number for Skype he told Maria and the kids bye then let Frank back in the chair so you slid the laptop back to Maria and pulled Frank Jr over into your lap so he could see his dad more clearly.

Frank stayed on for a while longer so when the kids ended up falling asleep before he had to cut the call you carried one at a time to bed so him and Maria could talk longer. After you'd tucked Lisa in you walked back in the living room to find Maria wiping her eyes and sitting the laptop down in the corner to charge.

"Ria? you ok?" you asked softly and she nodded "I just miss him" you held out your arms silently and she walked into them letting you comfort her for a few minutes before she sniffled and said "Ok enough of wallowing kids are in bed, we have wine and movies let's enjoy ourselves before the storm hits good" you were always amazed at her ability to keep moving forward. She was the strongest woman you'd ever known.

You followed her into the kitchen and grabbed two wine glasses out before sitting them on the counter. She grabbed a bottle out the fridge and poured you both a glass then tucked the bottle under her arm and nodded towards the pantry "Grab some snacks I'll get the movie started"

You were watching the woman on screen light something explosive up when Maria said "You know Frank said Billy really does appreciate the letters. He doesn't really have family besides us" you glanced sideways at her and shrugged "He's a pretty good guy and like I told him we're stuck together as long as he's friends with Frank cause I don't know about Billy but I don't plan on going anywhere" she laughed at that then added "I'm glad you two have become friends even if I warned you about his flirting he is really a sweetheart when it comes down to it" a rumble of thunder echoed through the house so you sat your glass down then stood up and said "I'll go check on them" before heading towards Lisa and Frank Jr's bedrooms.

The Skype calls between you and Billy started happening regularly. There were times they'd be just minutes and there were times you'd talk for an hour or longer. Frank would dip in to say hey and to check in on Maria because she'd tell you more how she was handling things then she would him.

The two of you had went from simply being stuck with each other due to your choices of best friends to actually being friends yourself.

You filled your time when you weren't working with either Maria and the kids or hanging out with Curtis, helping him get used to things back stateside.

It seemed like the ten month deployment went by rather fast before you knew it the guys were back and you were once again sitting up the welcome home barbeque. Frank was manning the grill while Maria finished up a few things inside so you were leaned against the side of the house talking with Curtis and his sister Mia who you'd gotten to fly in to surprise him and watching everyone mill around in the background laughing when a random water balloon caught Frank behind the head.

"Curt tell you the plans he has to help vets?" you asked Mia and saw a smile slip onto Curtis's face "It's in the infant steps but yea and Y/N has offered to help however she can" You talked with the two of them for a while before you heard Billy holler "Y/N! HELP ME!" You glanced up from the conversation and laughed when you saw the predicament he was currently in.

Frank Jr was behind him and Lisa appeared to be threatening them both with the water hose. "What did he do Lis?" You hollered and could see the grin playing at her lips she was a mirror of her mom when you were both younger "He said boys are stronger than girls!" "William Russo!" You gasped and he gave a guilty shrug.

About that time Frank walked back into the house then came out with the super soakers he'd gotten the kids and handed you one "go get him" "FRANKIE!" Billy was the one to sound shocked this time but Frank just shrugged "House rules brother. We don't question the strength of these women"

You spent the rest of the day laughing while you and Lisa bombarded Billy even ending up talking Frank Jr and Big Frank into your plans. Unfortunately when Frank came up with an idea that ended with Billy going into the above ground pool he managed to grab you before he went over the side and you both ended up soaking wet and laughing your asses off.

"Remind me again why I'm friends with you Billy?" you asked playfully shoving him while you tried to climb out the pool only for him to laugh and pull you back in replying "You're best friends with my best friend's wife?" "Oh yeah" you agreed before hopping up to shove him down in the water and make a break for it.

Frank pulled you out and laughed when you shook your hair out your face "Alright children go get dried off" You leaned around him and stuck your tongue out at Billy who shook his head with a grin before you headed towards the door where Maria stood with a stack of towels.

"Thanks Ria" you said as you took the offered towel. She nodded back towards where Billy and Frank were making their way across the yard "seems like you two are getting along well enough" you glanced back at the two then smiled at her "Yea he's actually fun to be around most of the time" 

"Hey I heard that!" Billy said mocking hurt at your words before he grabbed the towel from Maria and added "besides I am a delight to be around. Ain't that right Frankie?" Frank looked between you and Billy then shook his head "says more about me and Maria that this is what we chose as our friends" 

"Frank!" "Frankie!" You and Billy exclaimed in unison before Frank grinned "Our lives be boring without the two of you" you glared at Frank playfully for a second before cutting your eyes at Billy "He looks a little too dry to me. What do you think Russo?" 

A smirk slid onto Billy's face as soon as he realized your plan and he nodded "Oh definitely" "Do not!" He warned looking between the two of you. 

"I call the water hose!" You hollered making a run for it and heard Billy "I got the super soaker!" "You're both dead!" Frank hollered and Maria simply said "Y/N show no mercy to either of them!" Then ran inside with a laugh and slammed the door behind her.

Tags: @intothesoul

@weallhaveadestiny

[peterxwade24]

cigaM egnartS

Prologue

Beacon Hills

Stiles Stilinski, the human best friend of Scott McCall and token human of the McCall-Hale Pack, sat in his bedroom bored out of his mind because true Alpha McCall had forbidden him from attending the most recent pack meeting, despite the fact that he was the reason Erica and Boyd returned to the pack and the fact that he’s the only reason Scott McCall even learned control.

Stiles’ phone lit up and ZZ Top’s “Sharp Dressed Man” poured from his phone’s speakers, which caused Stiles’ face to break out in a smile. He answered the phone, a video call, and waved at his uncle. “Hi, Uncle Phil. What’s up?”

Stiles’ uncle, Phil Coulson, smiled at his nephew. “Hey Mischief.” Stiles watched his uncle relax into his favourite spot on his couch. “Not much just wanted to call and talk to my favourite mischief-maker. Where’s Scott?”

Stiles gasped and clutched his chest. “You wound me, Uncle Phil.” Stiles felt his smile fall and glanced away from his phone momentarily. “Scotty’s got a girlfriend now. Doesn’t really have time to hang out anymore.”

“Mischief. Is something wrong?” Uncle Phil always knew when something was wrong, and sometimes Stiles hated that about his uncle.

“No, not really, I mean, Uncle Phil? Things are getting to be a bit much here. Could I come and stay with you for a while?” Stiles refused to look his Uncle Phil in the face. He couldn’t tell Uncle Phil that things had changed with his dad, that things had taken a turn for the worse and that Dad had started drinking again. He couldn’t tell Uncle Phil that Dad had started taking his anger out on him. He couldn’t-

“Mischief, you don’t have to ask. I will have to arrange some things with… work. But you can come and stay for however long you need. I love you Mischief.”

Paris

Marinette stared at her computer screen, hating that her eyes were her mother’s and not her father’s, when her Skype sprung to life. She let a small smile spread across her face before pressing to accept the call.

Marinette’s father’s face appeared on her screen, he was sitting in his dumb blush pink chair in front of his light gray walls in his home office. “Hey, munchkin.”

“Hey, Dad.” Marinette smiled at her dad, knowing that her hair came from him and not her mom. “How’s Entcle Nat?”

Her dad smiled and shook his hand in the universal expression of “so-so”. “Nat’s good, so is the rest of the team and I’ll make sure to let them know you asked about them.”

Marinette felt her eyes tear up before she attempted to subtly wipe them away. She let out a humorless laugh and shook her head, feeling her hair tumble out of her barely held together ponytail. “Hey, Dad?” Marinette was struck by her realization that her mom and Tom, when had he become Tom, had gone from parents to overworked babysitters who didn’t really care about her wellbeing. “I think I need help.”

Marinette's dad, Clint, looked her in the eye and somehow knew. "Munchkin. Do you wanna come and stay with me for a while?"

Marinette waved her hands through the air to indicate that the offer was not necessary. "Dad. I can't just abandon Paris, my friends are here." She frowned and thought about her friends when an alarm blared and her face fell. “Dad. I gotta- I gotta go. I’ll get back to you about this.” Marinette stood up and partially closed her laptop.

Marinette stood up from her desk and took down her hair. She shook out her hair before looking around. “Tikki?” She stretched her arms over her head and smiled. “Tikki. Spots on.”

Marinette was engulfed in a reddish-pink light and when the light dissipated she was standing in her room in what resembled an aerial acrobat’s costume. Her arms, shoulders, upper chest, and most of her upper back were covered in a neutral gray mesh fabric speckled with little red ladybug spots while the bodice of her suit was red with neutral gray ladybug spots. She had a lilac tutu around her waist, neutral gray tights and lilac pointe shoes with red-violet ribbons with black ladybug spots tied up her legs.

Ladybug rolled her shoulders and sprinted out of her bedroom to go fight the Akuma.

New York

Clint walked out of their home office, a frown on his face, and collapsed against Phil’s side. “Okay, so, you know about my daughter. You know how she lives with her mom and her mom’s husband in Paris. I think my daughter is a hero and she needs help.”

Phil nodded. “So we’re going to have both of our kids living with us for a while. Okay.” Phil wrapped an arm around Clint’s shoulders. “Are we ready to tell them about us?”

Clint shrugged. “I don’t know if we’ll ever be ready. But we need to tear the bandaid off eventually.”

Phil smiled and pressed a kiss to Clint’s forehead. “We’ll just have to set up a group call on Skype later.”

Clint pressed a kiss to Phil’s cheek. “So, like, call back in four hours?”

“Sure.”

---

Phil, sitting in Clint’s dumb blush pink desk chair, logged into Clint’s Skype as Clint, sitting in Phil’s black desk chair, logged into his Skype. Phil called Clint and Marinette, while Clint called Stiles.

“Who are you and why are you sitting in my dad’s desk chair?” Marinette answered the call before noticing her dad in a very different chair. “Dad?”

“Hey, munchkin.”

“Uncle Phil?”

“Hey, Stiles.” Phil smiled and waved. “So, kiddo, the man on my account is my boyfriend. His name is Clint Barton.”

“Munchkin, the man on my account is my boyfriend, Phil Coulson.” Clint smiled.

The two teens looked at each other and seemed to be sizing each other up. Marinette had long brown hair done up in a messy bun and gray eyes while Stiles had closely shaved brown hair and whiskey brown eyes. Marinette’s gray eyes caught sight of Stiles’ freckles and moles while Stiles’ whiskey brown eyes traveled over Marinette’s face and saw her freckles.

“Hey, Dad? Are you sure you never had any other kids?”

Clint nodded. “Yes. I’ve never had any other kids. Stiles’ mom was Phil’s sister.”

The two teens shared a look before smiling. It seemed like they could get used to having the other pair in their lives.

"Hey, Uncle Phil? It's still cool that I come and stay with you, right?" Stiles sounded hesitant, almost as though he was questioning his welcome.

"Oh Mischief. Of course it's okay for you to come stay with Clint and me. We just wanted to introduce you two over Skype before all four of us were living together in the apartment."

"All four of us?" Marinette sounded from across the ocean. "That means we're both going to-" Marinette was cut off by the opening of the trapdoor into her room.

"Hey Marinette, your mother and I need you to watch the bakery while we make a delivery." Tom's gruff voice grated on Clint's ears, hating how the other man treated his daughter.

"Yeah. Sure. I'll be down in a sec." Marinette pulled out her phone and loaded the app before rejoining the call on her phone.

Clint and Phil exchanged a look before steeling their nerves.

"Hey Munchkin? What would you say about coming to live with me full-time?"

“Dad, I couldn’t possibly,” Marinette slowly made her way down her ladder before focusing on the call again, “I’ve got responsibilities here. I’ve got friends.”

“Munchkin, when we were videoing earlier, you didn’t hang up before closing your laptop.” Clint watched his daughter’s face and saw when it finally dawned on her what he meant.

“You can’t- Dad- You, I, Dad!” Marinette looked panicked before it looked like she forced herself to calm down.

“Munchkin, I love you and I support you. I’m Hawkeye and one of my friends is Tony Stark, aka Iron Man. I’m pretty sure we can find a way to get you back to Paris so you can save the day.” Clint smiled at his daughter, who kept looking between him and his boyfriend, before slowly nodding.

“Okay, Dad.”

“Marinette, if needed I can talk to my boss and arrange for you to meet with him and our team to confirm what Tony sets up,” Phil reassured the girl.

“If nothing else, we’d always be able to give you an alibi if you had to leave quickly to go save Paris.”

---

It didn’t even take them that long, just a few hypothetical questions and S.H.I.E.L.D. had marked both Clint and Phil as “Temporary Family Leave” so they could move their children in and get them settled. When they told their children, they were ecstatic and immediately started packing up what they would need to move several thousand miles away from the only home they’d ever known and all of their friends. Of course, Phil was going to California and Clint was going to Paris to help their children break the news to their guardians.

Clint was oh so happy to go see his baby girl’s mother. They hadn’t exactly split on good terms, with her yelling in his face that he was worthless and didn’t deserve to see their baby, but Clint could be civil when he needed to be.

Phil on the other hand, there was no love lost between him and his brother-in-law. The two had never gotten along when his late sister was alive and the rift only grew when Claudia had died, leaving Mieczysław alone with just his father. Phil had stopped being civil with the man many moons ago, knowing that the man would fight tooth and nail before he let Phil take Mischief away from Beacon Hills.

The pair of lovers spent one last night together before they had to fly out to get their children. They had always known this could happen, they just never thought they would be getting both of their kids in one fell swoop.

Only time would tell how well the family of four would fit together into their new normal. Only time would tell how quickly the two kids would become each other’s whole world. Only time would tell exactly how much trouble the two kids, technically cousins but siblings in bond, would get into as soon as they were in New York City.

TAGLIST

@art-is-hard-to-do-sorry @jalaluvsu @dont-mess-with-me

[crmsnmth]

September Sky Chapter One, Part 5

I stepped into that tiny room and grabbed a clean pair of black pants out of my dresser, and a Hellraiser t-shirt out of the closet and headed back out and down to the shower.

Our place wasn't all that big but I wouldn't call it small either. From our porch (which for some reason had a very comfortable couch on it), you entered into a very neglected living room. I cannot recall a single time I saw any of us use it. My room was directly off the living room. A small hall led down to the kitchen and bathroom. Dennis and Tom's rooms were off the hallway. At the back of the kitchen was another door that led outside into an alley. And down to the basement, and up to the apartment above. Downstairs in the basement was a washer and dryer that either Tom or Dennis had set up, making laundry exponentially cheaper.

I flicked the bathroom fan before turning on the shower. I take very hot showers, the kind that will turn your skin bright reds and pinks. So I need the fan to suck the steam out of the room. Especially because for once I wanted to use the mirror and take care of the way I looked. Something I rarely cared all that much about.

Usually, I take long showers. I enjoyed the warming comfort that only a hot shower can provide. But today, I didn't have the time. As I washed my hair, the intrusive thoughts began there wonderful attack. What if she doesn't show? I mean, I couldn't really blame her if she bailed. It would certainly suck, but I'd probably respect her for the move. I mean, she now has all day to think if getting coffee with a stranger who dresses like the dead was worth the risk. I mean, this was 2012. There's some sick people out there. Still, a part of me deep down really was hoping she'd take the actual risk. And there really was only one way to find out which way she was going to go.

I was done in about ten minutes, dressed and ready. I stood staring into the mirror, making sure my bi-colored hair was perfectly in place, and not the rat's nest it usually was. There was nothing more I could do, so I checked my phone and headed back to my room to rest again. It was only 2:34 which gave me plenty of time, but it felt like I had no time.

So I did what I normally do. Distraction. At least for an hour. The only problem was that every distraction I had, I didn't have any interest in. My anxiety was winning on this one, letting its black tendrils reach deep into my brain and forcing intrusive thoughts and panic to bite slowly around my nerve endings.

I sat on my mattress and decided to check my messages on Facebook. I only had one, and that was pretty normal. The only person I really talked to was my best friend, Chad. We didn't really see each other that much since I moved to Milwaukee. Before I had moved, him and I were almost always together. I can't think of a day where we didn't end up hanging out, usually in front of a Speedway Gas Station. Like some kind of punk Jay and Silent Bob.

We did try, and thanks to the miracle of the internet, we were able to keep our friendship alive and well. Being able to talk to someone with instant video messaging is an amazing thing that I really think we all take for granted just a little too much. Be it a message on Facebook, a late night gaming session, or a Skype Call. There was always a way.

CHAD: Hey, one of these weekends, Alana wants to meet up and show us some bar in Walker's Point. I think it's Sabbatic or something like that. She said it was, in her words, "totally you guys." Can you geta Saturday off? And if so, can I crash at your place? If Alana is right we both know how that will go.

[thefuckinsandes]

Time Lapse

Pairing: Javi Gutierrez x Photographer f!reader Warnings: slight mention of sex, food mention Summary: Being apart from Javi is beginning to become unbearable. Especially when it has been over a month. Trying to stay afloat as you count down the days before Javi comes back home, you reflect on your feelings towards the sweet man. A/N: Hi, it's me. This fic has been in my drafts for so long that I finally had the chance to finish it. This could be read as a solo fic, but it is in continuation of my fic, Candid. Please enjoy some more soft Javi.

Part 1

Facetime had to be one of the greatest inventions ever created. Yes there was Zoom and Duo. Yes, Skype did and still exists and made a statement when it first came around. But the ease to simply press a button and Facetime someone was really a blessing. Especially when you miss someone and they are miles, miles away. 

“Have you seen the movie I recommended to you?” Javi’s voice flowed through your phone as you adjusted yourself on the bed. 

“The Calligari one? No not yet,” You giggled at the expression that quickly appeared as soon as the words escaped your lips.

“How have you not seen it? It’s a masterpiece!”

“Well, I was thinking of watching it with you. That way I can be able to enjoy something you love with you.”

“You’re perfect, do you know that?” Javi’s sweet praises will never not bring a blush to your cheeks.

You turned over your pillow and gripped onto the edge as you adjusted the phone in your hand. With a soft sigh you told him how you missed him. You missed the warmth that radiated from him. You missed everything about him.

“I miss you too, querida.” 

Javi Gutierrez was roughly two thousand, eight hundred and fourteen miles away from where you currently resided. You in the West Coast of California and him in the East Coast of New York. He was working with the director and producers of a new film that he had written. When you asked him to summarize it in three words, he responded with, “Action. Spectacle. Surprises.”

“That could be anything!” You laughed when you heard those words.

“Exactly!”

You missed him so much. His hair had grown a bit since you last had seen him a month ago. Those sweet curls you adored so much were making an appearance as you watched him move around the bed he currently was on. 

“How’s New York? Did you make any new friends?” 

He quickly sat up and the biggest smile appeared on his face. You mimicked his moves and leaned against the headboard of your bed, ready to listen to his newest tale.

“I did! His name is Isaac. He is an actor who is going to be one of the producers of the film. He is extremely funny!”

“Is this a new best friend I am sensing? Is Nick going to get jealous?” You teased him.

“Nick would love Isaac!” He spoke with such offense. “We would become an iconic trio like Luke, Han, and Chewbacca or Charlie’s Angels.”

“Does that mean I would be able to see you in a tight spy suit? Or better yet in Han’s outfit?”

“Only if you wear Leia’s outfit.”

“I promise. Space buns and all!” You both laugh.

“Oh! He also introduced me to his wife who is a director and screenwriter as well! She has done some amazing films! Some that they both even have worked on together! They want to meet you, too.”

“Me?” You asked surprised.

“I told them about my beautiful partner who is a photographer and creates beautiful pieces of art with a simple click of her camera.”

“Javi,” You smiled at him.

He shifted so that you can see all his beautiful features perfectly lit by the lamp beside him. His eyes, those beautiful expressive shades of brown, that are staring directly into the camera but seem as if they were staring straight into your own, showed nothing but adoration. 

“I wish I was there with you,” You whisper to him, as if it was a secret you were sharing. 

“Me too. Only one more week to go,” he whispers back. 

You both had officially begun dating ten months ago. After the photoshoot, you met up with him a few days later with the plan of watching a movie and having dinner. As well with the intention of returning the jacket that he kindly lent you on the day you met. In the end, the jacket became forgotten as the date continued.

On your third date and third attempt to return his jacket, Javi walked you to your door and as you pulled the blue jacket off your shoulders, he stopped you.

“Keep it. It suits you better,” Javi whispered before pressing his forehead against your own.

After that night more of his sweaters and shirts made a new home within your closet. Even now as you laid on your bed, one of his t-shirts was being worn as a sleep shirt. It still held the scent that could only be described as Javi.

“The day that you come home, I will be sure to have all of your favorite movie snacks ready. And we are going to have a Paddington movie marathon and cuddle on the couch,” You tell him. “It’s gonna be you, me, and Mr. Bunny. How is he, by the way?”

Javi laughs and puts his phone down for a second as he reaches over for the stuffed rabbit you insisted that he take with him. It was another duplicate of the bunny plush that was used in “Con Air”. Javi had given it to you on your fifth date. The date in which you both declared that you were official. He was yours and you were his.

Mr. Bunny came to view as Javi was back on the screen, “He has been enjoying the scenery. But he misses his mother.”

“I miss him too,” You tell him with a yawn. “The both of you.”

“Tiempo para dormir, querida. I’ve kept you up for too long.”

“Me? You’re the one that is three hours ahead of me. How are you still awake?”

A smile appears on his face, “Nothing in this world would stop me from being able to see you. I could stay awake for hours if it means being able to see your beautiful face and hear your lovely voice.”

“Come home soon, Javi.”

Javi smiled at the word home. You were becoming his home. 

“As you wish.”

And as you both laid in your beds, laying on the side that you both declared as your own, you both reached over and touched the pillows that were beside your own. Wishing that it was the person that you desired the most that was many miles away. The same thoughts lingered through both your minds as you whispered goodnight to the empty room with nothing but the sounds of the outside world.

The second thought on your mind when you awoke the following morning was that you were a day closer to seeing Javi. The first was how annoying your alarm was. As you got ready for the day, you noticed how Javi’s presence was always around you. The cup that he used for his morning coffee was placed next to the coffee machine as you poured yourself your first brew of the day. The blanket throw you leaned against on your couch that he helped pick out the one time you had gone on a Target trip and lost yourselves amongst the many ailes. The many DVDs that he left on your coffee table the day you got sick. He had insisted that they brought nothing but pure joy and would quickly make you feel better.

There were so many little things that reminded you how much you loved him. A smile appeared on your face before sipping on your coffee. Love. In your mind you thought that the possibility of even experiencing that romantically was out of the picture. And here you are, ten months later admitting the notion as you smelled the coffee that Javi had picked out a few days before he had left.

You sighed at the thought of him and soon remembered that perhaps you should go to his apartment to check how things are. Javi has a housekeeper that comes once a week, but before he left he had asked if you could also check on the plants that he kept in the apartment. The same plants that you had in yours. His reasoning was so that his home had a piece of you in it. After quickly getting dressed, one of his sweaters being thrown on, you locked the door behind you and began your journey to your favorite place.

Javi’s apartment had such a beautiful view of the city. At first you thought that his art pieces and movie memorabilia would capture your attention. But the moment you saw the rays of light enter from the large balcony, you were enamored. As Javi joined you on the balcony, you told him that this might be the most beautiful view of the city as the setting sun made its appearance. In Javi’s eyes, you were the most beautiful view. You glowed even more so than you already did.

Greeting his neighbors, an elderly couple who always gave you both a knowing smile, you entered his apartment. The aroma that could only be described as Javi hit your senses and it brought you such comfort. Leaving your bag on his couch, you made your way to the balcony and began your task of watering the plants that were both in and outdoors. As you walked around, you noticed that there were many things of yours that lingered in his apartment. 

Your favorite blanket was folded on the couch, the one that you used when you both cuddled under when watching films. Your favorite snacks are organized in his pantry as well as your own mug for the coffee that he brewed for you. His bathroom held your skincare products and your toothbrush in your favorite color. When he presented it to you the first time you stayed over, he had the cutest smile and was so proud to have the little piece of knowledge memorized.

In his room, your favorite pajamas were in the cabinet that he declared your own and the vanity he had purchased just for you so you can get ready for the day as he watched with admiration. And lastly, a portrait of the two of you at the beach as the sun set behind you. It sat on the drawer underneath the television in his room. It was a gift that you had given him and one that he would always cherish.

“Only one week to go,” You told yourself as you stepped out of his apartment, locking the door behind you.

The next day, you were dragged out of your apartment because according to Arlene, your moping behavior had to end.

“He’s only been gone for how long?” 

“34 days,” You tell her with a longing voice.

“That’s forever!” Leah yells as she takes a bite of her brownie.

“I completely agree with you, Leah! I owe you another brownie,” You ruffle the child’s hair as she giggles.

Arlene looks bewildered as she states, “She’s only seven!”

You and Leah look at each other before giggling, “She is wise for her age.”

“But seriously, I’ve never seen you like this over a guy.”

You take a sip of your coffee before saying, “Well I love him. So of course I miss him like crazy.”

The look that appeared on not only Arlene’s but Leah’s face was the most priceless moment ever. Arlene with her wide eyes and Leah with her mouth open and full of brownie bits.

“You love him!”

“Is he going to be my tío now?”

The two spoke together, blurring their words as you just smiled.

“I do and we can ask him when he comes back.”

“Tía,” Leah leans close to you as if she is ready to tell you a secret.

“What’s up?”

She pulls you close, whispering in your ear, “I really want Javi to be my tío. Do you think he would buy me that Baby Yoda toy I want?”

“He would definitely buy it for you. Now, ready for that next brownie?”

The days soon began to blur as you got busy with work. Photos needed to be edited, shoots needed to be scheduled, and meetings kept you on your toes. You would get home tired, wishing that Javi was there to cheer you up. Even though he wasn’t, the phone calls and text messages that Javi sent you made it better. You were ready for the weekend. For Javi.

On Friday the whole company was given a half day and you attempted to retreat back to your home, ready to clean up the apartment since Javi was due to be home Saturday afternoon. But your attempts to go home were stopped.

“Let’s go eat!” Arlene walked beside you as you exited the building.

“But Javi is-”

“Coming tomorrow, I know. But, can we please have lunch? Michael offered to pick up Leah from school and I really wanna have a nice lunch with my best friend.”

It was a rare opportunity so you agreed. Arlene gave you the biggest smile and dragged you along for some light shopping before having lunch. Ever since you told her that you loved Javi, she began to ask questions about Javi and the possible future.

What’s your favorite feature of his? His eyes because it shines so bright.

What is one thing you would change about him? Nothing really. But if you had to pick one, it would be his self-doubt. He was amazing and worked so hard on his scripts and needed to realize that.

How’s the sex? None of your business, but it’s magical.

Would you ever move in with him? Yes, of course!

Is he really the one?

“I can’t imagine my life without him in it. He’s it for me. I love him.”

With that answer, Arlene knew that you were in deep. And she knew that he was too. 

As you headed home, you were glad that you had that lunch with her. It made you think about what you wanted and now that you are more certain of it, you were hopeful for your future with Javi.

“Only one day to go,” You smiled before entering your apartment.

Golden hour peaked through the windows and it provided the light for you to see the scene before you. Movie snacks were placed on your coffee table. Paddington was on your tv screen, ready to be played. As you entered deeper into your apartment, Mr. Bunny was sitting on the couch along with Javi’s favorite blanket that was on your bed.

“Welcome home, querida,” Javi’s voice pulled you towards the direction of your kitchen as Javi stood there with a loving smile.

A gasp escaped your lips as you practically jumped on him, pulling him into the tightest of hugs, kissing him all over his face. Javi held onto you tightly, refusing to part from you as he took you in. He missed the feeling of your arms around him, your scent washing over him as he placed his head on the crook of your neck. This is where he was meant to be, in your arms as you whispered to him how much you missed him. Javi knew that there would be no other for him as he held you. You, his one true love.

“You’re home! I missed you so much,” You told him before kissing his lips.

“I missed you more,” Javi nuzzled your nose with his own. “Next time I have to travel anywhere, I am taking you with me.”

“Really?”

“Of course. I want the woman I love to be with me, always.”

He loved you. Javi loved you. Javi Gutierrez, the sweetest and most wonderful man to ever exist in this lifetime, loved you.

“I love you,” You whispered to him as you pressed your forehead against his.

Javi’s eyes widened before they quickly darkened, quickly taking hold of your lips with his own as he felt the love you were giving him in the kiss. Nothing but pure passion and love was felt and you both finally felt as if you were now complete. Life was complete. Well almost.

Javi pulled away, placing light kisses, “I love you with my whole being. I want to build a home for you. For us. And I knew since the moment I took your hand that you would be the only one for me.”

“I want us to have a home too. I want to be able to wake up to your arms around me every morning. I want everything with you.”

His smile only widened more as he pulled you towards the couch and as you both took a seat, he pulled out a small box from his pocket. He gently handed you the wide velvet box.

Your heart pounded in anticipation and a gasp escaped your lips. Inside there were two small items. Well, one smaller than the other. A single key rested next to a beautiful ring that was already bringing tears into your eyes.

“Javi.”

“You are my home. You brighten my day in so many ways. You provide the warmth that I didn’t know I was missing. And even though we haven’t been together for long, I know in my heart that there is no one else I’d rather be with than with you. I bought us a home that I want to fill with you. I want to start a life with you and who knows maybe have children or pets. Whatever you want.”

You laugh as the tears freely fall from your eyes. Javi grabs the ring and slowly descends down onto one knee. His eyes filled with love and hope that showed brightly thanks to the golden hour.

“Will you marry me, mi amor?”

You nodded your head profusely as you quickly reached for Javi, “Yes, Javi, yes!”

Javi held you close as you kissed him. After everything he’s gone through in his life, his hopeful, romantic heart finally found what made it whole. This time apart showed the two of you that you carried each other’s hearts. 

“I can’t wait to start our new life together.”

“We already have. On that first date, our new life began. We have a long beautiful journey ahead of us, mi amor,” Javi tells you as he slips the ring on your finger.

“You and your beautiful words,” You lean against his chest as he kisses the top of your head.

“Only for you,” he tells you as he watches how the ring glows in the golden light. He starts the film as a thought appears in his head, “Can we have little Leah be our flower girl?”

“She’d probably have one condition,” You laugh, remembering what she told you.

“What’s that?”

“She wants her tío to buy her a Baby Yoda toy.”

A laugh escapes his lips, “Of course. Do you want one too?”

“Yes please. I love you.”

“I love you, querida.”

~~

Tags: @evyiione , @lovesbiggerthanpride

[ncredwolf910-8]

Note from Jen: This next confession belongs to Delilah from Texas. We had a wonderful Skype chat about our mutual interests. She is now part of the K9 Sex Club and will try to find like-minded people in her area to join. Hopefully, this will result in more confessions from Texas.

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

2 years ago, when I was 26, I bought my first home. I was planning to move in with my fiancée, who I was engage to for 2 years. Unfortunately, we had a horrible breakup and I had to move on with my life without him. I was doing well for myself professionally, so I could afford a really nice 3-bedroom house with a nice garden and a pool. It wasn’t long before I became quite lonely, so I considered getting a room mate for a while. After much consideration, I decided that having a room mate was not for me, so I decided to get a dog instead. It took a lot longer to get a dog that I liked than I thought it would, but eventually I found a breeder who sold well-trained dogs. He rescued unwanted or abused puppies, raised them and trained them properly until they found the right home. The oldest was 3 years old. After a few visits and interacting with different dogs, we agreed that a wonderful, 2-year old Siberian Husky was the best match for me. He has the typical white and black fur with incredible, piercing blue eyes. I was glad to get a properly trained dog instead of a puppy that I’d have to train myself. The breeder gave his dogs nicknames and my boy’s name was Loki, because of a mischievous streak he had in him. I decided not to change his name. He settled in almost immediately when I brought him home, and very quickly became my close companion.

Personally, I wasn’t doing too well in finding a new, compatible guy to date after my breakup. I did go on dates, but it never went past a second date. It was frustrating to the point that I felt like simply giving up. Unfortunately, this also left me sexually frustrated. I only had sex with men I truly connected with, so the dates that I did go on never gave me satisfaction where this is concerned. I felt so much pent up frustration that I eventually bought myself a dildo and a vibrator. I got off with my new toys, but they weren’t the same as getting it from a guy, or feeling a real penis inside me, but what choice did I have? For the next 4 months, Loki was my only real companion.

One afternoon, I drove home from work feeling particularly horny. My mind was playing out sexual fantasies that kept me very turned on. My pussy was so wet that I knew my dildo would slide in effortlessly. When I got home, I let Loki in from the backyard like I always do. I rushed to feed him and refresh his water so that I could get down to the business of fucking myself. While Loki ate his food, I went to my room and got my toys from their hiding place in my closet before getting naked. I started ramming my dildo into my pussy as soon as I lay down on my bed. It was not giving me the satisfaction I was after, so I sat up and thought for a second. I decided to go to the living room and watch some porn online. I had a laptop hooked up to my TV with wireless keyboard and mouse, so I was browsing porn within minutes and working myself up even more. I found a 30 minute video of a woman getting pounded my 2 men that looked very interesting, so I got it started on my big screen. I sat back on the sofa with my butt at the edge of the seat, spread my legs wide open and slowly worked my dildo in my pussy. When the porn got intense, I started ramming my pussy.

Unbeknown to me, Loki had entered the living room and was silently watching me. When I first noticed him standing in the doorway, tilting his head while he stared at me, I got quite a fright. I immediately refocused on the job at hand and continued with enthusiasm. I glanced at Loki now and then, feeling strange to be watched by him. After a while, I realized that being watched was adding an interesting excitement to the moment. He’s only a dog, but that didn’t change the way it made me feel. Loki started walking towards me, very slowly. As he approached, his head would bob down and then back up again and I saw him sniff the air. I smiled as I realized that he must have picked up the scent of my wetness. I felt like I was putting on a show for him, and without thinking, I angled my body towards him to give him the best view between my legs that I could. It was as if he was human and I was teasing him with a private show, but when he was only 2 feet away from me and seemed like he was going to keep moving forward, I began to feel a little nervous.

I suddenly realized that there was a real chance he’d try to lick me or something if he got close enough. That made me nervous and I felt a shudder ripple through me. My mind began to race and I thought about shutting my legs and then going back to my room to finish, but I was surprised at myself when I simply removed my dildo and kept my legs open towards him. I watched him inch closer, still sniffing and looking between my legs. I was amazed to see my legs spread a little wider when his head was between my knees. I watched in silence, stunned at my own behavior as Loki inched closer still. His head was between my thighs now, and his snout was only an inch from my pussy. I felt his breath on my pussy and it made me shudder as goosebumps formed on my skin. I remember thinking, ‘What the hell am I doing?’. Loki’s snout touched my pussy and he continued to sniff in quick bursts of air. His wet nose making contact, and the cold air rushing over my pussy made my entire body shiver with delight. I could tell it was only seconds before Loki might try to lick me. I knew I was supposed to prevent it from happening, but my body refused to listen to reason.

Loki licked the air, millimeters from my pussy, so I knew that was my last chance to get out of this situation. My body still refused to move, so the next time his tongue came out, I felt it swipe over my pussy gently. I shuddered again from the incredibly light, and somewhat ticklish contact from his tongue. The next flick of his tongue was more deliberate, so I felt it even more and realized that the first lick was just a taste test. From the third flick of his tongue, and the rest that followed, Loki licked me properly and forcefully. His tongue slide between my lips, licking over my pussy hole and up to my clit with each swipe. My body twitched each time I felt his tongue on my clit, and it was way more satisfying than trying to get myself off. I watched his tongue lap my pussy over and over. It felt so amazing that I had to admit that I enjoyed his tongue more than my ex- fiancée’s. That was the moment I allowed myself to let go and completely enjoy what was happening.

With no self-judgement to spoil the moment, I was able to fully experience the absolute pleasure my dog’s tongue was providing. It was broad, long, rough and warm. Everything that could possibly make a tongue perfect for licking pussy. Loki was really going at it now. I felt his tongue slither inside me a little sometimes, but the building orgasm I was feeling was surprisingly good. I never took my eyes away from between my legs. I realized that I loved watching his tongue move my lips around or separate them while I felt the amazing pleasure it gave my pussy. My body began to shiver as my orgasm neared the point of eruption. I held my breath, my mouth open as I anticipated the inevitable climax. When my orgasm finally exploded, I let out a gasp and my body convulsed. I shook and made quite a few sounds in ecstasy, so I was very glad that Loki wasn’t scared off and simply kept eating me out. My orgasm reached a climax I never experienced when my ex went down on me, making me feel grateful that I allowed Loki to do this to me. The extra wetness my pussy produced made Loki lick me intensely. I had such an incredible climax that I was shocked. When I was satisfied enough that I felt it was over, Loki wouldn’t stop licking. I had to lean forward and hug him to stop him. I put my cheek against his face and rubbed his flanks with both hands.

“Good boy Loki... Good boy.” I heard myself say.

He wagged his tail while I showed him appreciation. I ran my hand under him to rub his chest. As my hand moved back and forth I felt something strange. On the next stroke, I felt it again and it dawned on me, I just touched his cock. I leaned down to take a look and saw that his red cock was poking out. I froze for a few seconds as my mind raced. I had just received and incredible orgasm, but I was still turned on and desperate for penetration. The idea of using my dildo was unsatisfying, so the sight of a penis made me think thoughts that were usually unimaginable. I must have been frozen like that for almost a minute, thinking about his cock and wondering if he could fuck me. Another part of my mind told me how silly the idea was, and how wrong it was too. My pussy began to throb, deep inside. My skin pricked up with goosebumps and a surge of energy washed over me like a wave. My body wanted penetration from a real penis and it was signalling that fact as loud as it could. The minute that I was frozen like that seemed like an eternity. When I suddenly began to move again, it was with deliberate intent.

In a frenzied hurry, I got down onto my hands and knees and pulled Loki with me. He got excited and jumped around me. I needed him to get behind me and then mount me, but for a few moments there was only chaotic frustration. Suddenly, when Loki circled behind me, he paused the moment he got a whiff of my wet pussy. He began to sniff my rear and then started licking again. I left him to lick for a little while, forced to admit that his tongue swiping from my pussy and up over my ass hole was quite delightful, but I was desperate for penetration, so I rocked back instinctively, forcing him to stop licking when my rear went under his head. When that happened, his instinct to mount kicked in and I was very pleased to feel him on my back. He was motionless on top of me, so I reached between my legs to find his cock and then started tugging on it. He immediately began to hump and I moved my butt around to try help his cock find my pussy.

I was expecting to struggle for awhile, but I was pleasantly surprised when I felt his cock split my pussy lips. The moment he felt that, he began to hump me with urgency. His cock felt so small at first, but it grew to an impressive size within seconds, each forward thrust giving my hungry pussy more pleasure. Within moments, I was groaning in a satisfaction, grunting sometimes and smiling wide. My pussy stretched to its limit and I felt incredible stimulation in every part of my pussy.

“Oh.. my... god... Lo... ki.” I said each syllable with a thrust from him.

He fucked me much harder and way faster than I could have guessed he was capable. The biggest surprise though, was how amazing it felt. I was receiving the kind of sexual stimulation I only ever got from incredible sex with a man. An orgasm built up rapidly inside me, making me smile open mouth as I felt it growing.

“Shit Loki... you’re going to... make me cum.” I said incredulously.

2 thrusts later, I groaned out load as my orgasm erupted, tearing through my senses like an electric current was suddenly passed through me. My orgasm grew to an amazing climax. I felt like screaming, but no sound came out when I tried. Just when I thought I had reach the peak of my climax, Loki shoved his knot into my pussy, making my climax like nothing I’ve ever experienced. I was surprised at how long my orgasm lasted too, but also incredibly relieved to finally have the release I had been missing for so long.

Quite suddenly, everything was quiet and Loki and I were motionless, aside from heavy breathing. I wanted to tell him that he was a good boy, but I needed more time to recover before I could speak. I lowered my chest to the floor and spread my knees apart a little more so that I could rest with less effort. Loki’s cock was throbbing inside my pussy, still very deep and too large to pull out. I could feel him cum in waves. Every jet was warm and delightful. I had another mini orgasm while we were locked together and I giggled in pure bliss. By the time I had caught my breath, Loki’s cock was still stuck inside me. I got back up onto my hands and turned my head as far as I could to try see his face.

“Such a good boy Loki. I love you my boy.”

Everything happened so fast that I was still unsure of my feelings about what was going on, knowing that I shouldn’t even be thinking about sex with a dog, but the deed was done and I felt very satisfied. We remained tied for nearly 10 minutes, but I enjoyed every minute of having my pussy so completely filled. When his cock did finally come out, I felt suddenly empty and felt cold air rush into my gaping hole. Loki licked his cock and I collapsed to the floor, turning around to give my stiff body a break from holding me up like that for so long. As I lay on my back in amazement at what just happened, Loki shoved his snout between my legs and started licking, so I simply spread my legs open and allowed it. My pussy was very sensitive, so his licking was unbearable on the one hand, but soothing on the other. About another minute went by before he stopped licking and then lay down beside me and gave his cock a little more attention. I was still in shock from everything that just happened, so my mind was in chaos. The main thing I felt was total satisfaction, so I decided to hold onto that feeling and consider the situation a positive one. The moment I decided that, I began to think about having sex with Loki again.

Loki and I still have sex very regularly. I have kept trying to find the right man, so I still date when I find someone who interests me. So far, the only guy to even see me naked since this all started is my handsome Loki. If I ever do find a man who will interest me in a long term relationship, we will obviously have sex, but he’d better get used to the fact that I fuck my dog, because I’m not going to give that up easily

[theapprenticeofthanatos]

TAoT: Chapter 16: Difficult Conversations

Danny woke up on a stone bench, facing the cavern ceiling of the Underworld. He turned his head and saw Nico standing near the fountain, talking to Hades. They were locked in a hushed conversation, and Danny could see that Hades looked rather annoyed, while Nico looked rather upset himself.

Danny felt like his limbs were made of lead, and his head began spinning like a top as soon as he tried to sit up. He groaned miserably, which caught the attention of the two by the fountain.

“You should not be trying to sit up, Daniel.” Hades cautioned as he strode over to him. Nico followed close behind, a bewildered look on his face as he watched the interaction between his father and Danny. “How did you end up in my realm without your mentor?”

Danny’s mouth felt like it was full of cotton balls. “I… uhh…” He put his hands to his temples and laid back down. “I dunno…”

“I think you may have shadow-traveled.” Nico supplied.

Hades sighed. “I will go contact Thanatos, tell him that you are here. Nico,” Hades frowned at his son. “Don’t be rude.”

Hades pulled a pure black iPad from thin air as he walked away. Danny heard the Skype ringtone just as Hades walked into the entrance hall. On a normal day, Danny might’ve been amused by that. At the moment, however, he was just trying not to throw up.

Once his nausea settled, Danny looked over at Nico. The demigod was standing nearby with a hand on his sword hilt and an unnerved look in his eyes as he watched Danny.

“What are you?” Nico asked, sounding rather disturbed.

Danny rolled his eyes. “I thought your dad told you not to be rude.”

Nico’s eyes narrowed. “Answer my question.”

Danny scowled at that. “You know what?” He sat up, feeling slightly less awful than when he first woke up. “No. I’m not gonna answer your question. I’m not gonna answer anyone’s questions! I’m getting really tired of people asking me about things I don’t wanna talk about!” His voice echoed loudly through the silent courtyard.

Nico looked surprised at Danny’s outburst, and then he glanced away, his expression slightly apologetic. “I…” He looked down at the ground. “Sorry, I’m just… confused.”

Danny chuckled tiredly at that. “Me too, buddy, but what are you confused about?”

Nico stared at Danny like he was a car accident on the side of the freeway; stomach churning, but it was impossible to look away. “How… how are you dead and alive? Why do I see Phantom when I look at you?”

Danny glanced up at him, perplexed. “What do you mean, you ‘see’ Phantom?”

Nico grew frustrated. “I mean, I see you,” He gestured to Danny. “black-haired, blue-eyed you, sitting right there. But I also see Phantom sitting there, like a… weird overlay or something.”

Danny guessed it made sense that Nico, as a son of Hades, would be able to see ghosts and stuff. He wondered if it would be a good idea to tell Nico about his secret, but… he didn’t really have a choice, since he couldn’t think of any lie that Nico would believe.

Besides, although Danny had only met Nico a couple of times, he felt like he could trust him. There was an air about Nico that made him seem much older and wiser than he appeared. Danny felt the same pull around Nico that he did whenever he was around Hades, but to a lesser extent; it was less mind numbing, and more… comforting, maybe?

Danny scooted over on the bench and motioned for Nico to join him. Nico raised an eyebrow in question, but sat next to him anyway.

“I dunno where to start, honestly, it’s…” Danny gave Nico a tired smile. “It’s a pretty weird story. My parents are obsessed with anything and everything to do with ghosts; they like to think of themselves as ‘professional ghost extraordinaires’. They’ve studied the paranormal for years, and built all sorts of equipment for hunting and studying ghosts. They’ve even got this whole science-y lab in our basement. One day, I decided to mess around down there and… had an accident.”

“But… you’re dead.” Nico said, putting emphasis on the last word.

“Yeah,” Danny sighed. “I know.”

“What happened that caused you to become… this?” Nico gestured vaguely at Danny.

“Honestly, I don’t know how I survived, let alone became this.” Danny shrugged. “But, I’m glad I became Phantom. I’m happy that I’m able to protect those I care for.”

Nico looked thoughtful, but before he could say anything else, Hades reentered the garden. Nico stood to greet his father, but Hades ignored him.

The god looked tired, and he put his hand to his temple as if trying to ward off a migraine. “Thanatos isn’t answering my calls, so he must be occupied at the moment. Daniel, could you use your mark to summon him?”

“Oh…” Danny thought back to what Thanatos had taught him about his mark the previous day before the god had left. “Uhh, I mean, I kinda remember the, uhh, tracing thing,” Danny waved his arm vaguely. “But I… don’t remember the words.”

Hades sighed tiredly. “You trace your mark while you say, ‘éla se ména,’ and then his name.”

“Oh, uhh, okay.” Danny nodded. He held out his arm, mark up, and traced over the black letters with his finger. As he traced them, he said clearly, “Éla se ména, Thanatos. (‘Come to me, Thanatos.’)”

Danny’s mark glowed a bright white, and he could feel what little energy he had left being sapped from his body. After a few seconds, his mark faded back to black, and Thanatos appeared in front of him in a cloud of dark mist.

The god wore a knee-length black chiton with an embroidered gold hem and coppery-red laced sandals, with a long red and gold cloak that sat between his wings. Thanatos immediately knelt in front of Danny and placed a hand on his shoulder. “Daniel, are you alright?”

Danny tried to nod, but he slumped forward instead as his exhaustion overwhelmed him.

Thanatos caught Danny before he could fall and held him up, his golden eyes regarding Danny with concern. “Hades, what happened?” Thanatos asked the other god, but Danny didn’t catch Hades’ response as he lost consciousness. Again.

Thanatos POV:

Thanatos caught Daniel as he slumped forward. He looked into the child’s eyes to try and catch his attention, but Daniel’s eyes slid shut and his head fell forward limply. “Hades, what happened?” Thanatos asked.

“I don’t know, honestly. Daniel shadow-traveled here, though I’m not sure why.” Hades answered, shrugging carelessly.

“He shadow-traveled?” Thanatos repeated in disbelief. “By himself?”

Hades folded his arms. “I suppose so. Why didn’t you answer my calls?”

“Because,” Thanatos placed Daniel’s arms around his neck and lifted him up from the bench, cradling the back of Daniel’s head as he stood and turned to face Hades. “The King of the Gods decided that he urgently needed to speak to me about my new apprentice.” Thanatos’ gaze hardened slightly. “Did you tell him about Daniel?”

“Excuse me?” Hades glared back at him. “I haven’t spoken to that big oaf since the winter solstice! Why in Tartarus would I tell him about anything, let alone about your apprentice?”

“How else could he have learned about him?” However, as soon as Thanatos said that, he remembered that Daniel had met Dionysus at Camp Half-Blood. He had also met Ares, and although Thanatos and the war god were good friends, Ares may have mentioned Daniel to his father. Persephone may have even mentioned him to her mother, Demeter, who would’ve spread the news to everyone on Olympus within the hour. “Do you think Persephone might have told her mother?”

The air around Hades turned frigid. “Perhaps, but have you thought that maybe Daniel said something himself?”

“… That could have happened.” Thanatos conceded. He would have said more, but Daniel shifted in his sleep, reminding Thanatos that he was still holding him. “I should probably get him back to camp.”

Hades agreed and turned to leave, but paused as he looked around, confused, and asked where his son had gone. At some point in their conversation, Nico had wandered off without either god noticing. Hades groaned tiredly and bid Thanatos farewell before heading back into his palace.

Thanatos considered shadow-traveling back to Camp Half-Blood, but decided against it. Daniel did not look to be in good health from his solo trip earlier, and Thanatos did not want to risk his apprentice fully melting into the shadows. So, he decided to use the Doors and hoped he could get them to open close to the camp.

After making sure he had a good hold on Daniel, Thanatos’ outfit shifted back to his usual chiton and sandals as he spread his wings and took off for the Underworld side of the Doors.

As Thanatos flew to the Doors, Daniel started to mumble in his sleep. At first it was just random, nonsensical words and phrases: “fudge,” “beware,” “goin’ ghost,” (Thanatos smiled at that one.) But then, Daniel started fidgeting and mumbling: “no, please,” “stay away from them,” :why are you doing this?:

Thanatos looked down at his young apprentice in concern. Did he just speak in Greek? He wondered as he landed in front of the Doors. “Daniel, everything is alright.” Thanatos said comfortingly. “You are safe.”

:Safe?: Daniel repeated as Thanatos stepped into the elevator. “Safe… good.”

Thanatos listened closely to hear if Daniel spoke any more Greek, but his apprentice had quieted, his mutterings fading away to silence.

As the elevator reached the end of its journey, Daniel began to shift and stir; he appeared to be in better health than when Thanatos had first seen him that day. Thanatos stepped out of the elevator and into the bright sunlight and carefully placed his apprentice on his own two feet, holding him upright as he regained full consciousness. “Are you awake now, Daniel?”

Daniel rubbed his eyes as Thanatos let go of his shoulders. “Mmm, yeah.” He looked around at the trees surrounding them. “Are we… still in the Underworld?”

“No. We are somewhere in Pennsylvania.” Thanatos answered somewhat bitterly; in his current state—due to his earlier meeting with Zeus himself—he hadn’t been able to get them as close to Camp Half-Blood as he had hoped. He returned his attention to his apprentice. “Why were you in the Underworld in the first place?"

“Uhh, I think… I shadow-traveled there?” Daniel answered, clearly trying to avoid the real issue.

“… Yes, I realize that, but why did you shadow-travel there?” Thanatos clarified.

“I didn’t mean to!” Daniel hugged himself as he looked away. “I wasn’t thinking, I just… needed to get away from camp for a bit.”

Thanatos grew concerned. “Why did you need to get away from camp? Did something happen?” He noticed Daniel’s bare arm and frowned. “What happened to your bandage?”

Daniel did not answer immediately. When he did, he was quiet. “I messed up. Someone saw my mark. Actually… two someones.”

Thanatos took a deep breath and slowly released it; he should’ve known that would happen sooner or later. “Okay, who saw?” He asked calmly.

“Well, uhh, I met a girl-or, a goddess-today. She said her name was Hestia.” Thanatos stilled, but Daniel didn’t appear to notice as he continued. “She somehow knew that I was an apprentice, and she asked to see it.”

“And you showed her?” Thanatos’ voice held a hint of frustration.

Daniel flushed with embarrassment. “I mean, she seemed really nice, and I felt like I could trust her…”

“Well, yes.” Thanatos agreed. “Hestia is quite a kind goddess. However, do you know who her youngest brother is?”

Daniel thought for a moment, and Thanatos watched as he connected the dots. Daniel paled before he answered quietly. “… Z-the sky dude?”

“Yes, the ‘sky dude’. I had to talk to the ‘sky dude’ because of you,” The frustration in Thanatos’ voice was clear by that point. “And get him to agree not to do anything to you until the winter solstice.”

Daniel shuffled his feet, his eyes downcast. “I’m sorry, Thanatos.”

Thanatos pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed. “It will be okay, Daniel. You did not know any better.”

Daniel didn’t respond, his gaze still fixed on the ground.

Thanatos spoke more gently. “I am sorry for raising my voice at you. I know that I didn’t really explain why you should hide your mark; that’s on me. But people knowing that you are my apprentice could be very dangerous for you.”

Daniel looked up at him questioningly.

Thanatos explained. “Mortals are often foolish, Daniel. They yearn for power over anything they think they can control. Some are even foolish enough to strive for power and control over the primordial forces of the universe, such as the movement of time, or who lives and who dies, and they will do whatever they can to get that control.” He caught Daniel’s gaze, hoping that his apprentice understood the seriousness of his words. “Do you understand?”

Daniel looked a bit shaken by Thanatos’ warning, and he returned his gaze to his feet. “… Annabeth was the other person who saw.” He mumbled. “We were sparring and my bandage came off.”

Thanatos was a little less upset with that bit of news. “At least that time was accidental. I am sure you can work that out with her when you see her again. Now, how did you shadow-travel by yourself? I never showed you how, and doing so on your own, without any instruction, was very dangerous.”

Daniel ran his hand through his hair. “I don’t know how… I wasn’t thinking. I just… reacted.” He dropped his head into his hands and groaned. “I’m so tired…”

“Yes, that is what happens when you shadow-travel by yourself for the first time.” Thanatos deadpanned. Though he was still annoyed, his tone softened a bit. “Are you alright to travel?”

As an answer, Daniel’s transformation rings appeared around his waist and moved away from each other, changing him into his alter ego: Phantom. “Yeah, let’s go.”

First: Prologue

Previous: Chapter 15

Next: Chapter 17

[imagineabuttercream]

I Told You (Conor x Reader)

"Babe, why aren't you packing?" you asked Conor, your boyfriend of 4 years. He was currently watching your one year old daughter sleep in her playpen instead of packing for a two week long tour.

"I think I'm going to cancel the next few shows." he said, staring down at the rosy cheeked little girl.

You sat next to him on the couch and slipped your arm around him. "What's going on, love?"

"I'm terrified that she's going to grow up and only remember that I was gone all the time." he said, reaching down to run his thumb over her tiny fingers.

"Oh, sweetheart." you sighed, fully wrapping him in your arms. "You don't need to worry about that. You always make time for her."

"I just don't want to let her down. I don't want to let either of you down." he said turning in your arms and pulling you tight to him."

"I promise you're not going to." You kissed him on the lips. "You're the best dad she could have asked for."

Finally cracking a smile, Conor pulled you back into the kiss. "Thank you, love."

"Now go pack, pop star." you laughed, "Remember we're flying out for your birthday show, so you get to see us in a week."

"You better be." he said, standing up and rushing to pack.

You had been working on a project for Conor for weeks, going through all of the little videos and pictures you had been taking of Conor and your daughter from when she was born until now. You had grabbed a few from his friends as well. George, Conor's dj, was going to help you surprise Conor at his show and you couldn't wait.

Conor skyped the two of you daily and you always made sure to send him pictures whenever your daughter did something funny or cute or obnoxious.

When you finally arrived at Conor's venue a week later, you handed your little one to Conor and told him he had to stay in his dressing room for a bit. "Oh, you two are being sneaky. Please tell me you aren't leaking our sex tape." he teased, gently bouncing your sleeping daughter in his arms.

"I'll save that for your 30th birthday. It'll be nice to look back on a time when we were a lot hotter." you laughed, kissing Conor before leaving the dressing room to plan with George.

"Did you finish the video?" he asked, watching the tech guy sort out how it was all going to work.

"I did. I used Conor's cover of 'Keep You Safe'" you replied. Conor had Covered JJ Heller's lullaby right after your daughter was born.

"Awww, you know he's going to bawl his eyes out." George laughed.

When the tech guy pulled up the video, it was being shown on three massive screens on the stage. George talked into the mic. "Hey guys, can everyone in the room pay attention for just a second. Conor knows we're surprising him with something during tonight's show, but he doesn't know what it is. We're going to play it now to make sure everything is working, but please don't tell him or post anything on social media until after the show. Thanks!" He finished "Alright, play it."

After the video, the room was filled with "awws" and everyone that knew you came up and hugged you. George was wiping away a few tears, pulling you into a hug. The two of you had become great friends in the time you'd been dating Conor.

"So we'll pull two chairs on stage and face them to the screens so you and Conor can sit and watch it." George said to you, turning to talk about timing with the tech guy.

When Conor had to come out on stage and run through a few songs to make sure the sound and everything was good, you sat out in one of the chairs with your daughter. As usual, her eyes were glued to her dad. She had always been mesmerized by his voice. Apparently like mother, like daughter.

When the time came for the big surprise, George motioned for the stage hand to bring out the two chairs. "Alright, guys. As you all know, Today is Conor's birthday." George waited for the crowd to calm down. "You also know that a little over a year ago Conor became a dad." he continued, throwing his arm around his friend. "It's hard being on the road when you miss your family. I know that first hand." George looked over at his friend. "Well Y/n has something she wanted you to see, so if everyone can quiet down we'll get this started."

You walked out on stage with your daughter and sat down next to Conor, your back to the audience so you could watch the video with them. "You're going to want to hold her." You said, passing your little one to sit in his lap. Conor had a huge smile on his face, not knowing what to expect. You leaned over close to his ear so he could hear you. "Happy birthday, love."

The song started with the video. "Quiet your heart, it's just a dream, go back to sleep." The first clip was of Conor holding your newborn baby, tears streaming down his cheeks. His brother Jack's arm thrown over his shoulder as the two of them stared down at the brand new Maynard.

"I'll be right here, I'll stay awake as long as you need me. To slay all the dragons and keep out the monsters, I'm watching over you." After a few pictures of Conor and her, the next clip was one you had taken during one of Conor's business meetings. They were going over his tour schedule with papers spread out everywhere in the conference room and Conor was feeding your daughter her bottle while following his manager around the room.

"My love is a light driving away all of your fear." A short clip played of Conor sleeping on the couch with your daughter laying on his chest, one of his hands on her back.

"So don't be afraid, remember I made, a promise to keep you safe." The next clip was of Conor sitting at his keyboard writing music, your daughter asleep in the bouncer that Conor was gently bouncing with his foot, followed by a clip of the first time Conor had brought her on stage.

"You'll have your own battles to fight when you are older." Your favorite clip played. You came home to find Conor asleep inside your daughter's playpen with her after trying to get her to sleep on her own, the camera turning to show the huge smile on your face.

"You'll find yourself frozen inside, but always remember. If you feel alone facing the giants and you don't know what to do..." Next was a montage of short clips of Conor holding her in various airports, airplanes, and trains. As often as he could, he took the two of you wherever he went. This was followed by Conor and her with various snapchat filters. Conor posted these almost daily, so it was hard to narrow it down.

"My love is a light driving away all of your fear." Pictures from different holidays and parties flashed through, your favorite being Conor dressed up as the old guy from up and your daughter dressed up as the dog.

"So don't be afraid, remember I made, a promise to keep you safe." The song came to a close, the video ending on a clip of Conor holding and singing to your daughter backstage at another one of his shows. "And if you feel you're sinking, I will jump right over

Into cold, cold water for you..." in the clip, he noticed you were recording him and he smiled, turning so that your daughter was in the video. "And although time may take us into different places..."The video slowly faded out

The crowd was full of "awwws" and cheering. You turned to look at Conor and he had your daughter in his arms held close to his chest, a few tears trailing down his cheeks. You leaned in and kissed him. "I told you you were a great dad."

"Thank you so much." he replied, kissing you back.

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

a/n This is the song I always sing to the babies in my family. You should listen to it, it's incredibly sweet. "Keep You Safe" by J J Heller.

[cherryeol04]

Valentine’s Surprise

❥ Pairings: Chan x Minho

❥ Genre: Wolf au, Soulmate au

❥ Additional: romance, angst, humor, cheesy Chan, omega Minho, alpha Chan

❥ Word Count: 3.5k

❥ Warnings:

❥ Author’s Note: This is a work of fiction. The members displayed in this story are not meant as an accurate portrayal of the members of Stray Kids. Everything is made up and not real! ❥ Translation: Russian

“And then Mr. Kim mansplained why doing the project earlier was more beneficial.” Minho sighed, closing his eyes at the memory, though mostly to help ease the tension in his eyes from staring at the glowing screen in front of him. Though he didn’t keep them closed for long, not wanting to miss a moment of seeing Chan’s beautiful face. It was hard for them to get time to talk like this. Even if Chan was only a few more hours ahead of him in timezones, they both lead pretty busy lives. So Minho was greedy when it came to his time with his boyfriend.

“And what could he have possibly explained -”

“Mansplained.” Minho corrected and Chan rolled his eyes lovingly at the other.

“You’re a man too, babe.”

Snorting, Minho crossed his arms, glaring at Chan as hard as he could, though judging by the laughter, he probably came off more of like a cute kitten as Chan has often told him. “It’s the principal of it, Channie. He was talking down to me like I was some helpless omega.” he scoffed. “I wouldn’t put it past him to be the type of person that still believes an omega’s place is in the home, caring for twenty litters of pups.”

“Twenty - oh my god.” Chan choked. “That’s an excessive amount of pups, don’t you think?” he asked, eyeing the screen warily.

“Of course not!” Minho grinned as he leaned in closer, eyes locking on the camera lens. “Don’t you want to have a big family with me, Channie?” This time he was pouting and perhaps laying it on a little thick. Though it was worth it as he watched Chan’s cheeks heat up, despite the graininess of the video call. Even Chan’s HD camera was no match for Skype’s shit quality. “Hmm?”

“Of course I do, Minho.” Chan cleared his throat. “But twenty is definitely too many pups to have. We’d be eaten out of house and home.” Well, Chan did have a point about that. Okay, maybe they wouldn’t have that many pups, but they would at least have one and that thought alone pleased his wolf in ways that Minho really didn’t want to acknowledge. He wasn’t the type that liked to rely on his instincts and be the “typical” omega type. But there was something about Chan that had him wanting to do all the homely things that many associated with his second gender. He wanted to provide a wonderful home and family for his alpha.

“You win this round, Mr. Bang.” he teased as he sat back in his chair. “But just so you know, this war isn’t over.” He giggled, beaming when Chan laughed as well. He loved the way Chan laughed - how his shoulders shook and eyes turned into crescents. And his dimples were always on display when he laughed. They were possibly Minho’s favorite part of Chan’s body. Their happy little bubble burst when Chan’s alarm went off, startling them both. Minho watched with sad eyes as he picked it up and turned off the annoying sound before looking back at him.

“I have to go.” He whispered.

“I know.” Minho could feel the sadness radiating off of Chan through the computer and he was sure it was the same for the other. Ending their calls was always the worst, but they couldn’t stay on video all the time, as much as Minho liked to argue. Even with all his cunning ideas, it still wouldn’t work out, but he gave it a valiant effort every time. “I miss you.” He could feel the heat dusting his cheeks, but decided to ignore it. He hadn’t meant to say that out loud, but it was too late to take back the words. Not that he was lying or anything. He really did miss Chan, even with him right in front of him like this.

“I miss you too, Minnie.” Minho’s heart fluttered, chest swelling with an emotion he had felt so many times that it could only be love. That or it was heartburn and he still hadn’t deciphered which it was yet. “I love you.”

Minho scrunched up his face, looking away to avoid making a fool of himself. He wanted to giggle, or coo or flail about. Every time Chan said those words, he had such a visceral reaction that he just couldn’t handle himself. “I love you too…I guess.” he shrugged, hoping his voice sounded as indifferent as he wanted it to be.

“I would hope, you’re kinda stuck with me for life.” Chan lifted his right wrist, his fingers grazing over the mark and watching it glow a beautiful golden yellow. Looking down his left wrist, Minho watched as his own mark glowed, reacting to his soulmate, even though they were miles apart.

“Wouldn’t have it any other way.” He whispered, lifting his eyes back to the screen. “You should go. Text me when you get home.”

“Always.” Chan grinned. “Remember to eat today.” Chan’s set him with a stern gaze.

“I will.” He probably wouldn’t, especially if he got wrapped up in the choreography for his upcoming dance evaluation. But Chan didn’t need to know that, right now at least.

“Good. Talk to you later, baby.”

“Bye.” Minho always refused to be the one to end the call, and he silently hoped each and every time that Chan wouldn’t end the call either. But just like all the previous times, the call ended and Minho was left in nothing but the static silence of his bedroom - feeling alone. His wolf howled in agony, the dramatic little thing because he knew it wasn’t the end of their relationship. Chan would text like always, Minho was sure of that, but trying to convince his wolf of that was like talking to a brick wall.

So Minho resigned himself to his daily cycle of sadness and forced himself out of his chair to go and get ready for dance practice. At least if he was doing something, he wouldn’t notice the sadness as much.

------

Felix stared worriedly as Minho paced the floor of their practice room. He looked flushed and agitated and if it wasn’t for the thick Eucalyptus scent wafting from the other, Felix would have been inclined to believe that Minho was sick.

He felt that way. Minho felt absolutely nauseated- wrought with worry because Chan had stopped answering his calls and texts. Minho would be understanding if it had been a one time occurance, or if Chan called him back, but he didn’t. For the past couple of days, no matter what Minho did, Chan never answered. His read receipts were suddenly turned off as well as his location services. Every phone call would ring twice before going straight to voicemail and Chan’s status on Skype was always offline.

It’s like the man just disappeared off the face of the Earth! How was that even possible? For a popular and good looking alpha like chan to just go missing?

Minho froze in his tracks as a horrendous thought crossed his mind. What if Chan was cheating on him?

He snorted to himself. No, not Chan. He was as loyal as one person could possibly be and not a mean bone in his body. He wouldn’t cheat.

But…

It was the only explanation for the sudden behavior change. It all made sense if he thought about it. And it’s not like he could blame Chan. They were separated by miles of land and ocean, and at least two if not three time zones. They’ve only ever seen each other through video calls. Their relationship was the epitome of long-distance.

“Hyung.”

What if Chan had met someone else? Someone prettier and better? More willing to bend to the stereotypical behavior of an omega? Someone who didn’t sass back as much as Minho did. Who expressed themselves better than Minho ever could? Someone who was within arms reach that Chan could touch and hold and kiss and…mate with.

“Hyung?”

What if Chan had met a better mate and was getting ready to break their soulmate bond?

“Minho hyung!”

Jerking back at the touch to his cheek, Minho blinked rapidly, clearing the tears blurring his vision. Since when had he started crying? Frowning, he reached out and wiped the tears aways with a little more aggression than necessary. Stupid tears. Stupid emotions. Stupid Chan!

“Minho hyung, what’s wrong?” Minho knew Felix had been standing there, but it wasn’t until that moment that he actually registered his presence fully. The younger beta was staring at him with such worried eyes that Minho wanted to cower from the gaze. He didn’t want to feel like a burden.

“Nothing.” He spat and immediately regretted his words at the forlorn expression tossed his way and was quick to apologize. “I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay hyung.” Felix whispered, eyes shaking with emotion. “But something is wrong.” He stated firmly. “You can tell me, I want to try and help.”

Minho took a few shuddering breaths, trying to calm himself down because he certainly didn’t want to snap at Felix again. He really was only trying to help. And it’s not like he put these horrible thoughts in Minho’s brain. No, Minho only had himself to blame (and Chan). “It’s really nothing.” He tried to assure, but faltered. “Actually…Chan stopped texting me and answering my calls.” He said slowly. “Did he mention anything to you about…anything really?”

There was a look of realization that crossed Felix’s features only to be quickly replaced by a look of deliberation. Minho squinted at him, poking his side a few times.

“Felix…what do you know?”

“Huh? Um, well…” the way Felix trailed off was a bit suspicious, like he was trying to think up an excuse. “I remember him saying something about a deadline and you know Channie hyung gets when he’s composing.”

Oh yes, Minho knew first hand how wrapped up in his work Chan could get. But even when focused on his work, Chan would always call him back when he was done. This wasn’t normal working Chan behavior. But the fact that Felix didn’t seem worried did help to put the Omega’s worries at ease. If only slightly.

“I guess.” He muttered, heaving another sigh. Reaching up, he rubbed his cheeks, taking note of how hot they were, but that was to be expected. He was still pretty worked up. “Whatever. Let’s just start practice.”

“You sure hyung?”

“Yeah.” Turning, Minho headed over to the counter and started the music, effectively ending all conversations.

——

Minho really should have listened to his body more. Despite the fact that he had been hot during practice, he had told himself at the time that it was just because he was upset. And that wasn’t a lie. He had been upset and was still upset, even days later. It was going on a week and half since he last heard from Chan and no matter how hard he pressed Felix, the younger Australian had no information about his older cousin. And that only added to the stress and worry and negative thoughts. But even all that couldn’t explain how hot he was becoming. He should have realized days ago that this was a sign his heat was coming, but Minho was so wrapped up in the “cheating” scandal he had fabricated in his mind that he lapsed in caring for himself.

Now he lay prone on his bed - a naked, panting mess that absolutely refused to do anything to help ease the pain. And why would he when the one thing - one person that helped him through his heats was missing in action. Over the three years that Minho knew Chan, the other had always been there for him, talking him through each orgasm until they were both a trembling, sticky mess on a video screen. Not the ideal way Minho wanted to be with Chan, but he would take anything and everything he could get.

But his alpha was gone and he was in pain. It was like his body knew Chan wasn’t there and was rebelling against him like it was Minho’s fault. His wolf was antsy, howling and searching for that connection, but in his heat induced delirium, he couldn’t find it. Had Minho had a better grip on his thoughts, he would have known their bond wasn’t broken if he only touched his mark. But as it was, he could barely remember his own name as he writhed and curled up into a ball as another cramp claimed him. A harsh sob wretched itself from his throat and all he could think about was just wishing for the heat to end.

A sudden knock to his door pulled Minho out of his spiraling thoughts, the fog momentarily lifting as he tried his hardest to process what had just happened. Another knock sounded shortly after, leaving Minho confused. Who would be at his apartment now of all times? He had already called off work, put in his absences with his professors and told his friends he would be out of commission for the next week. Everyone who needed to know he was going through his heat, knew, so they wouldn’t be coming to his apartment. At least he hoped not. It would be highly unprofessional if his boss or professors decided to pay him a visit. And while the thought of a teacher-student or boss-employee relationship was appealing, the only person he wanted in that authoritative role was Chan.

But Chan wasn’t there. He was probably off screwing some omega and starting his happy life while Minho laid there suffering. Begging and pleading for a higher power to bring Chan back to him. He absolutely hated this.

Another knock and Minho snapped. He pushed through the pain of the cramps, forcing himself up and out of his bed. The thought of putting on clothes sickened him, body too overheated to be confined, but he knew he couldn’t answer the door naked. Well he could, but the resulting consequence that may happen far outweighed and won over the need to be comfortable. So Minho pulled on his pajama pants and left the safety of his bedroom. The once stale air of the house came alive with a mixture of mint and eucalyptus as Minho made his way to the front door. As he reached it, another knock sounded and without so much as a care of who could be on the other side, Minho yanked the door open harshly.

“What the fuck-” he stopped mid sentence, eyes widening as he took in the body before him. “C-Chan?” There stood a very sheepishly looking alpha. His normally styled hair, now just a heap of messy black curls. There was not a lick of makeup on his face and if Minho squinted hard enough, he could make out the very light dusting of freckles along his cheeks, just like Chan had always said he had. It was a family thing, though Felix had been more blessed in that area with a whole galaxy of freckles covering his face. He was adorned in all black, but that wasn’t something unusual as it seemed to be Chan’s favorite color.

“Hey, Minho.” He said, voice barely a whisper as he looked Minho over slowly. Minho watched the way his pupils seemed to dilate, steadily growing blacker the longer he looked at him. He felt so vulnerable under the gaze, yet desired, especially as Chan’s tongue swiped across his lips. As Chan dragged his eyes back up, he seemed to come back to himself, the tips of his ears turning a beautiful shade of red as he held out his hand, thrusting a bouquet of red and purple Baby’s Breath towards him.

Minho was stunned, blinking rapidly as he tried to formulate some sort of coherent sentence that wouldn’t sound dumb, but everything he came up with always fell flat. He wanted to interrogate Chan on where he had been and why he hadn’t been answering his calls and texts. Another part of him wanted to ask why he was even there. In the end, he settled on probably the safest topic as he took the offered bouquet. “You remembered.”

“Of course I did. I remember everything you tell me.” Chan chuckled softly before clearing his throat. “Except for when your heat is supposed to hit.” Minho tore his eyes away from the flowers to glare at Chan, the alpha gulping in response.

“You would have known if you had answered my calls!” he snapped. “Where the hell have you been?! Do you know how worried I was? What’s her name?”

“Huh? What?” Chan was taken aback by the angry outburst.

“What’s her name?”

“Who?”

“Don’t play dumb with me, Bang Chan. You went off the grid for over a week and you don’t think I wouldn’t know that you’re cheating on me?” he growled. “I never would have thought you would be such a no good, low down alpha to-to do this!” Minho was angry, his scent spiking exponentially. Unfortunately it wasn’t its usual sour scent. Nothing could mask the smell of his heat and the more worked up Minho became, the more potent and thick the scent filled the air.

“Baby, I don’t think this is the best place for this. Your heat.”

“This is the best place for this!” Minho snapped at him. “You have some fucking audacity to show up at my door step -” Minho paused, brows knitting together as he stared at Chan before looking around the empty apartment hallway behind him. “How did you know where I live?”

“Felix.”

“Felix?” Minho huffed and crossed his arms over his bare chest. “I knew he knew something.”

Chan laughed, though Minho was not amused. “Yeah, he knew. I had been planning this for months.”

“You had been planning to cheat on me for months?”

“What? No!” Chan groaned and rubbed the back of his neck in frustration. “Baby I’m not cheating on you. I was planning to surprise you by visiting.”

“Surprise me? By visiting?” he parroted as if repeating the words would help him understand better. “So you turned off read receipts, turned off your location services and stopped answering my calls and texts because you were coming to visit me?”

“Yes.” Chan nodded quickly. “Surprise! Happy Valentine’s day.”

“Valentine’s…” Minho trailed off, thoughts racing a mile a minute - each train of thought getting lost in the fog of his heat as the inferno grew stronger. This was crazy, ludicrous even but made more sense than Chan cheating on him. “Oh my god.” he whispered.

“Yeah, so then. Can I come in?”

Minho stared blankly at him before stepping back quickly. “Yes, come in, come in.” he ushered the other in. “Don’t mind the mess, I didn’t have time to clean. Been lost in my-”

“Heat. Yeah, I know.” Chan chuckled. “The whole building probably knows now.” Minho flushed as he closed the door quickly and locked it, sliding the chain for extra protection because Chan was indeed right. The whole building probably could smell him now and he didn’t need an unwanted alpha or beta to try and force their way into his home just because he smelled so alluring.

“Probably.” he muttered as he leaned back against the door, staring at Chan. “ I still can’t believe you’re here. I thought…I was so stupid.” Shaking his head, he gave a small laugh. “You were just coming to visit me. I swear to god Channie.” Chan chuckled as he stepped closer to him and gently pulled Minho into his arms - cradling him so carefully it was like he was made out of glass. And maybe he was. Minho certainly felt delicate enough at the moment. His body was in turmoil; hormones raging as he felt like he was burning alive while simultaneously being stabbed to death. The cramps were no joke.

But for a moment, Minho’s mind was cleared of all thoughts of his heat. This was the first time Chan was holding him, touching him. Minho had waited for this moment for too long. Had dreamt of this very moment more times than he could count and yet he never thought it would happen so soon - so unexpectedly. His heart skipped a beat, racing in his chest as he snuggled into Chan’s embrace, resting his head on the other’s shoulder. “Channie,” he whispered.

“Yes, love?” Minho’s fingers curled in Chan’s shirt, clutching the fabric tightly as he nuzzled into his neck.

“I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay. I probably would have thought the same thing, honestly.” Chan placed a gentle kiss on the top of Minho’s head. “I love you Minho.”

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[calypso-finale]

Forty Seven.

At times I come out of these meetings like I have been punched in the face, the pure confusion that hits me because these business owners are always trying to pull a fast one and also with my age, I am sat with a group of old people and I feel like I need to be careful and to not overstep what I do but I don’t care, I won’t let them ruin what empire my mother has built so I be on their ass badly and they know it “that was intense wasn’t it?” Amanda said as I left the room “I know right, these people are old enough to be my grandparent and they telling me I should just not speak, I had to tell them who I am” Amanda and I laughed as we made our way to the elevator “are you off to London now?” nodding my head “yeah I am, got to meet the family there so we can leave for Barbados, family holiday. I was going to say no because there is a lot of work, but I can skype it, I am just sick of meetings when things could be an email, this place has issues with that and I hate it” the elevator doors opened “trust me, but least like we have headquarters in Dubai. Rich handsome men, I am so glad we aren’t in Australia anymore, that shit was boring me” I pulled a face “it was the most unfun thing, like here I am always doing something but there is so many rich men, and potentials” Amanda and I laughed “I was saying that to Rih, and she said behave yourself, do not be looking at a prince now” my mom would faint if I came home with a prince “I plan on staying single and having fun for the rest of the time I can, men are trouble. The thing is, the rich men here are weird. Like when we went to the party and that guy took the white girl away and she came out looking high, I feel like you shouldn’t play with these men here, they are rich and bored and then he came up to us all normal and said they come here looking for us to pay, I was like huh” Amanda gasped “don’t, I was eyeballing you like we need to go, that was scary but they have the utmost respect, he goes you have wonderful parents, ugh. Don’t remind me” I chuckled, the men can be scary here too but there is a lot of things we can do for fun, better then Australia.

Taking in a deep breath as I sat down in business class, the plane back to London, as soon as I get to London the jet will be waiting for me to go Barbados, the timing was worked around me which was sweet, I said I didn’t want to miss it and they made it happen “hi, sorry. Are you Rihanna daughter?” looking up at the guy “who is asking?” I laughed nervously, he paused and looked a little apprehensive, this guy is handsome “me, sorry I have come off weird now. I didn’t know how to like you know come up to you” oh he is Australian “it’s ok, yeah that is my mom” I just agreed “I am Taylan” he smiled “right, and that accent is giving me Australian” he laughed “you don’t like us?” I chuckled “not that, just I don’t know but am I right?” he nodded his head “you are indeed, erm. I saw you earlier before the flight and I was like I know who it is and I had it all set out on how to approach you and I said the worst thing on earth, I am sorry” he apologised “it’s fine” I said, what does he want “I am Taylan” I giggled “you told me, I am Tianna. You not my mother’ secret son now?” he busted out laughing “oh no, oh gosh no. I just wanted to speak to you, I am a erm, I am a rugby player, I play in the football rugby league, I am going to London to get a medical because I may you know, be going over there. You are beautiful” oh this is getting awful “thank you, appreciate it” I know I am blushing “follow me on Instagram, I don’t want to stand here towering over you like this, and I am not Latino” I giggled because I was thinking that “I am Samoan” I breathed out an oh “that is very erm” I paused “erm what?” he grinned “man like, the men there are men” he is laughing at me, I am so dumb “yeah, I mean follow me and I will follow back, thank you” he is staring at me but staring into my soul, I am getting hot, he is hot actually “cool, I will yeah” smiling at him, he walked off eventually “what the fuck” I breathed out to myself, that is crazy.

I tried, I really tried to not clash with him as we left but of course. Life takes you on the road and the paths met again “I am so awkward, I don’t know. I am twenty one, I am so new to this thing” he is laughing at himself “likewise, but I did follow you back” he nodded his head, he has a tee on now and wow, he has impressive muscles “shit” I said to myself, he caught me looking at his arms “you’re funny” he pointed “I am stupid, I am not like my sister at all. I am stupid yes” I nodded my head “no, you’re not but erm yeah. Are you in London long?” he asked “no, I am going to see my family and go to Barbados now, going home” he let out an oh “are you always around in London? I am in Australia” I knew that “funny thing, I was there but now I am in Dubai” he let out an oh again “I would love to take you out, one time like when you can” smiling at him “see how that goes, I better go now” he is cute, I am interested “message me back!” he spat, did he message me, maybe he did. I am so dumb; I need to not act like a stupid idiot. I act like a man has never spoken to me but he caught me off guard like that, let me just get to the jet before my mom hunts me down, she will say the kids are getting annoyed with you, she already text me hurry up so let me rush there. I am glad the family waited for me, I would rather go Barbados with them all.

I huffed out, making it onto the jet “take your time” Imani said “shut up you” I pointed, look at her piping up “you be quiet” making my way down “what you doing here? You lost?” I said to Oakley, why is he here “I got a VIP invite you know” squinting my eyes “right, but you sat away from Rylee?” I asked “she harasses me, I had to sit away from her” looking at Rylee “right, hey” waving at my mom and dad “I will sit with Rylee” she looks not happy and I don’t know why, making my way to the back “I assumed Aziel would be sat here but he has fallen asleep, so I will sit” sitting down next to her “oh it’s free” she said “look at you, the tan!?” she spat “I know, what you think” I beamed “suits you, Dubai that good?” she asked “it’s amazing, I love it there. Better then Australia anyways” she cooed out “why are you moody anyways?” I questioned “well I didn’t know he was invited and then also erm dad gave a speech about no playing around, that Oakley has his own room, nothing under his roof and I am like I am horny, and he text me laughing, that was it” I snorted laughing “you on heat?” she nodded her head “when did this happen, you was never a feign. I think I was until I classed men has not shit”I said but she shrugged “well he is good, I don’t know. I don’t get why mom invited him, is she teasing me?” I shrugged “I don’t know but I didn’t think mom of all people would invite her nemesis unless it’s a ploy or she has changed” Rylee pulled a face “I don’t know, everything is a game to her so I am unsure” I sighed out, these two aren’t going to be apart so dad’ speech is useless, she is on heat and she will get what she wants, she always does.

I just told Rylee what happened in the plane back, she is snooping now “whew he is six foot, mhmm he is cute you know. And you saying he had heart eyes for you?” nodding my head “it was so random and then he just made me giggle, he was so nervous too. What you think?” Rylee looked at me “he has messaged you, three hours ago, he messaged you first. Just try it, see how it goes but he is cute you know. He has muscles!” she said that so loudly and the jet went silent, looking around me all wide eyed, then it hit me she did it on purpose because Oakley is staring “leave the skinny king alone” I said laughing “skinny king, he is something. Sat there with his headphones on and he is really snooping” she is going to be hell for him “stop it, so you think I should try?” she nodded her head “what you go to lose, he came to you. I mean I went to Oakley, and I did a lot of the chasing so yeah, it’s nice that he is doing the chasing” taking my phone from her “thanks, he is so shy. Bit like me, see how it goes. I am not jumping for no man and never will” seeing a pair of little hands on my lap “Aziel, what you doing here” he grinned at me “you want mommy?” Rylee asked “TT” he said “aww my precious baby, come here. I missed you, TT baby” picking him up “TT didn’t see you, how you going to her” swatting Rylee “mommy is evil” snuggling him close “I love you so much, I missed you” pressing kisses to his cheek.

Seeing my dad telling Aziel off, it would be my son having the biggest tantrum on the jet. Like I am not even going to deal with that, Oakley is acting like he can’t see him and my dad got him so I will take that “you have been quiet for so long, tell me what is Tay Tay saying to Ti Ti” Tianna looked at me “bitch?” I sniggered “well tell me, you have been so quiet” I know she has been texting this new fancy man “we have just been speaking on life and family, he was telling me that he has brothers called Tyrone and Terell, and they all do what he does” letting an out an oh “show me, if he is good looking so will they, choo, choo!” Tianna gasped “that is nasty, you’re nasty” she laughed “but he sent me this of his brothers” taking the phone “oh momma made good looking boys” I laughed out “you’re so annoying, no wonder nobody sat with you” she is such a bitch “that is so mean, I don’t deserve that but what you thinking? You like?” she shrugged “I don’t know, see how it goes. I am letting him chase me, he is on me not the other way around, you know” she has a point “not like me then, I don’t know what is wrong with me. I feel so you know, on heat. I just want to do things” Ti pulled a face at me “he is right there, but like you know. You need to listen to me, let him chase. You’re a dog, you chase” she says that, but I can’t help myself “Aziel!” I shouted, “I saw that, say sorry to grandpa now” I pointed at him, he hit my dad “no!” he spat “if I get up then you will be” my dad is smiling but he shouldn’t hit my dad “you don’t hit my dad!” I spat, my dad cooed out “she love me” my dad said, which I do he knows that.

Home sweet home, my mom is a changed woman now, she will be a different person now she is in Barbados, this woman will smile so much more. I was just going to check on Oakley but my dad has him, he already getting him in the mini bus so I don’t need to do a thing “Imani you are so boring, what is wrong with you” I asked her, she climbed into the second mini bus “fuck off” I gasped “my son can hear that you know” I half shouted “leave her, time of the month for her. You know how she gets, don’t annoy her” helping Aziel up “ok, I will stop” let me leave her “are you still scared to hold Emi?” Imani asked me as I got in “are you still on week three of your period” I had to say it back “you’re literally begging for attention from your ex, how does it feel we prefer him over you” Imani is starting on me “shut up! Both of you, I mean it” my mom piped up now “ok ladies, let’s just sit” placing Aziel on my lap “well she shouldn’t swear at people mom, how about you tell her off” I pointed “Imani, do not swear ok” let me just leave it, I was going to leave it but Imani started on me again “I mean what can go wrong, the whole family together” Tianna smiled “a lot, I mean come on. We have the barking dog in the back” Ti eye balled me “ok I am done, sorry” I apologised “Rylee I am serious, shut up” my mom said.

I peeped my dad earlier escorting Oakley to his room to show him where he is sleeping, like it was very forced, and it’s right on the other side, I mean this is my room here in Barbados always but he made sure that room is apart from me but I peeped it all. But it is straight into a bikini for me, just because I mean why not “that was quick” Ti said, “reading a book” I waved the book around “fuck you, you don’t read” I sniggered “you are so full of shit, oh my god” making my way out of the double doors “watch!” I spat, Oakley is sat outside, and this book isn’t even mine, it’s his. I just took it from the side, I know he is reading this because I saw him on the jet reading it. Oakley did a double take and I peeped it through my shades, got his attention though. Sitting on the lounger, if I move his bookmarker would he be mad, I think he will be but what he fuck is he reading, how boring of him. Moving the bookmark away to see the words in the book, looking up because someone is blocking the sun “that is mine you know, and we got beef if you lose my chapter” looking up at him “prove it” I said “literally the back page is signed, also the book caught my eye, not you” I sniggered “wow, how nice of you, I don’t know why you was invited though, I don’t get that” I really don’t “maybe to show me this beautiful country, the ladies are already beautiful” he squinted his eyes “thank you” I beamed “you’re American you know, I am speaking on real Barbadian ladies, you a half breed” he is so ugly “right, for being nasty” I was about to close the book but I didn’t, I would feel bad “have it then” placing the marker back and holding it up “thank you, thank you” he reached over and grabbed the book but he isn’t looking at the book, he is looking at my body, I got him “are you lost?” I asked “nah, but I think you on something” he walked off, I grinned knowing I got him.

[calypsoff3]

Thirty One.

Rubbing my chin, I am so far into my own thoughts that it’s dangerous and I don’t want that but I need to just wake up and do better, I need to do better for everyone and it’s hard because when you regret something, it’s so hard “Chris” Maxwell said my name, he is on skype with me on the day of my anniversary. I didn’t ask him too he wanted to call me on this day “mhmmm” looking at the laptop “how are you feeling?” He asked “I asked before but you went into deep thought so I ask again” taking in a deep breath “I feel like shit man; it’s a big day for us you know. I just want my wife back, and I do. Like I know I am me, I know I can be the better me” I sniffled “Chris I totally understand you have thrown yourself into the studio, by all means I want that. I want you to do things that elevate you and make you happy, but you haven’t slept. Sitting on your own is not good for you either” shaking my head “what if I call her? Tell her that it’s all just not what I want” Maxwell said back “Chris, what I want from you is for you to go and have some sleep, wake up with a clear mind and spend time with your loved ones. You without sleep is making your emotions so heightened, it’s not good. I have been telling you this for a while now” licking my lips drifting off just staring away from the screen “speak to me Chris, the day is a hard day for you both. I think what you need to do is have a good day with your children, calling your wife will only push her healing back just like it’s pushing yours. It’s a big day for you both and I did mention this didn’t I” nodding my head “I just think I did it out of being impulsive but now I’m like was it a good thing, I just be thinking but like you said, the lack of sleep is making me talk some shit, I only just came to the studio and sat here, I just ain’t do shit. I’m good, just thinking” I sighed out “I understand, feelings are good. I know you feel like you need to suppress that, I don’t want that either but you said that you feel that Rihanna is just feeling awkward, she doesn’t really want to interact with you as much and we can understand why; she’s hurt too. But we need to focus on your healing, you are coming on so well. But we need you to sleep, and don’t drive home” he pointed, I grinned shaking my head my head. I will be driving home, I ain’t going to just leave my car in this place.

You know when Maxwell told me to not drive home, maybe I should have taken his advice with that. Looking at my Lamborghini bumper and then looking at the guy’ car “sir it’s come back negative” I could have told him that “look I ain’t drunk and I ain’t had any drugs sir, I just literally came out and he drove into me” I think that happened “you only picking on me because I’m black, that’s it. It’s the middle of the night, I came out as I should and he came into me” the officer shook his head “we need you to get checked over sir, the crash is bad sir. I think you need to get checked on by the paramedics, we don’t know how you wasn’t hurt unlike the gentleman there” looking at him; he has a bleeding head “because he came at me, yes I got a little hurt here on my arm but I’m good, I just want to go home” Herb is here finally “sir, we need you to hold off on that” waving him over “ok” I said, he ran over to me “what happened?” He asked “oh shit, you did this” walking off a little “I ain’t do anything, the light barely turned green and I came out he was racing before the light hit red and he just came out at me, I saw him but I just delayed reaction to stop he hit into me, took off my bumper. Not even hurt” I laughed “damn bro, wow. When you called I got so scared. So you are ok yeah” nodding my head “just want to get home” Herb looks so relieved “I got so scared, man. Ok. So what happens now” I pointed at the paramedic “see them first but I was just going to go home, also they tried to make out I wasn’t drunk or on drugs. Because of course it’s a white guy, that pissed me off badly. But they can’t do shit, he’s in the wrong either way. Maybe I could have stopped but I didn’t, I was just in my own zone Herb. But they can get CCTV, I ain’t do shit” licking my lips sighing out, shit annoying me because I could have stopped “I will snap if they continue to talk shit” turning to the officer “we are just going to write some details and get this cleaned up, we have everything and will be in contact” nodding my head “let’s get you home bro” I am pissed odd, because in real terms if I just stopped at that moment knowing he was coming this could have all been avoided.

I feel rough, I did sleep so that’s a bonus but I just feel like shit. The kids just screaming around but it can’t drown out the way I am feeling about my wife, I am just so sad. I know she is hurting, I feel it. I even sent her flowers which I know I shouldn’t have but I did because I’m sorry, I know she’s feeling it, I’m. It being stupid towards it “dad, mom is on the phone, you had a crash?” Rylee said “what?” I said confused “literally you crashed the car” letting out an oh “yeah, how do you know?” I asked “mom told me” she held the phone out “oh ok, thanks” I said holding the phone, Robyn is calling me on this very day “erm hello” I said “what happened? I saw the car, are you stupid?” No hello or anything “it was a mistake” clearing my throat “I’m good, it’s fine. Just the guy was speeding” I explained “I saw the video on TMZ you could have seen the car but you drove, why?” Oh the video is out “they work hard don’t they, wow. I don’t know, I was tired. That was it, what can I say Robyn. I’m alive and well, I just was daydreaming and it hit into me, no need to worry” she is worried “I’m not worried, just want to know. Thanks for the flowers, no need. How did you know I would be at the house?” I guessed “because I know you won’t want to be with people, I know that” the line went silent “just take care of yourself Chris. Please, that didn’t look good and it’s stupid. If you die, then what?” She always does this “then less headache for you” I laughed “shut up, but anyways. Just take care” the call disconnected, she is annoyed I said less headache for her but it’s true. Passing Rylee’ phone back “dad what are you doing? Why did you crash the car? Are you ok?” Nodding my head “just happened, don’t worry about it. It’s like Your mom is telling me off in person, relax. And please don’t tell my mom, she will have a meltdown” I huffed out “I think I should dad, actually dad I was thinking when mom comes back you can take her out?” Here she goes “ok matchmaker” she is stupid.

Chris is an asshole; I mean he sent me roses and that is fine but he put sorry like he didn’t do that shit, he is the one that divorced me and he’s sorry for it but here I am being nice, being concerned. When I saw the pictures I was fearful and I got emotional; I do not want anything to happen to him because then he might as well take me with him. I adore him so much and this why I find it so hard, I find it hard to even speak to him but I did because I needed to know he was ok. The video angers me because I feel like he was being dumb, the car was right there. I was so mad seeing it but it was Jay that said it to me, he put your husband depressed about not getting a deal, the message alone pissed me off but I was more concerned about Chris but I am calling Jay now, the way he said what he said; it was rude. The call is just ringing out “happy anniversary!” Jay spat, and I felt the stab in my heart, he doesn’t know but I do “thanks, I told you to stop doing that yeah. I literally signed that shit and you promised to leave him alone? So why are you still harassing him” he is driving me crazy “shall we quote the contract?” I said “no, no. It’s fine, I will leave him alone. He is fine to choose a label but if I was him, go independent” he angers me “whatever, after this I am done, you know that?” I said to him, he knows I’m done “then get on with it, you made me get rid of the best male star on this label and you think I am happy!?” He half shouted “you’re a shit person” disconnecting the calls.

I’ve been living in the home we bought in Barbados, I’ve not stayed with my mother at all. I mean ok I am lonely but I need the peace, I need to prepare myself for the hectic mess that will be happening and just learn about this disorder, I really want to understand, I’ve watched YouTube videos from people that have it and they were real people saying they didn’t understand why they was angry for no apparent reason and always lashing out. I’ve learnt that people with the disorder are hypersensitive to every emotional nuance, usually in a negative way. I even watched this couple and the wife said she can feel when there is something bothering him. And I can often tell before he even notices that something is bothering him. And that is me, I felt that too. I learnt that I need to let the episode past. Opening the book at the bookmark, let me read the rest. Reading outside in the sun is the best ‘Know that you can live a normal life with borderline personality disorder’ my eyes welled up, moving the book back, feeling myself got choked up. I just miss him so much, I just want him. But it’s ok, I can only wait to know what he wants. Lifting my book up ‘People with the disorder often have risk-taking behaviors, such as overspending, drug use, reckless driving’ my mouth fell open, and that stupid man did that “Robyn!” Mel said, I closed the book quickly, Mel is here “outside” I shouted, putting the book under the pillow “hey girl” smiling at her “how come you’re here” I said “I came with booze, you seem very depressed and have been keeping yourself to yourself, wanted to speak to you. Your mom is concerned, even in Christmas you just stayed here” smiling at her “I’ll get the glasses then.

I don’t exactly want to speak to Mel but here we are, placing my glass down int he table and my eyes bulged out seeing the book on the table knowing I put that under the pillow to hide “since when do you read” looking at Mel like a deer “erm yeah, just bored. Thought I would read it” I lies “random book to read but cool, I would have thought you would have read a crime novel” I laughed nervously “no” that is awkward, it’s a book about borderline personality disorder “how are you and Chris? Heard you both don’t actually live together” Nodding my head “we don’t actually, just for everything going on we just need that space” I’ve kept my home life so to myself that Mel don’t know about anything anymore “you both fuck on the low, but I see you close with that bastards girlfriend” I’m guessing Herb “you cheated on him, how can you be mad at that? Stop it, Taina is a nice girl” Mel looks angered “you know what. I miss my friend, I miss when you wasn’t toxic! Where is that girl?” I said “toxic? Robyn, you’re in a toxic marriage, I miss you too! I miss my friend that didn’t take up from that nasty man, I miss you. I’m waiting for you to wake up and leave that, you don’t need him, he needs you. I am always here Robyn” so she says but she isn’t the same girl and I could never trust her, I trust Jah more now.

[echovilled]

— like a moth to a flame.

→ pairing: war x chaerin kim.

→ word count: 2,185

→ song: i listened to so many songs writing this but the most frequent one that got a lot of spins was definitely the boy is mine - ariana grande lol.

→ notes: stop letting me self indulge in 1-2 year old wips, im so serious rn !

Chaerin woke up with the expected feelings for her 18th birthday: a sense of excitement that felt both genuine and hollow. She loved birthdays and the idea of being celebrated, but the routine had become so predictable that she knew exactly how the day would transpire. She lay in bed for a few moments, staring at the ceiling, waiting for the feeling of something different to creep in, but nothing came. She blew out some air as she rolled her eyes and turned to the outstretched window that gave her the perfect view of the sun rising over Mount Namsan.

As it always did, the day would begin with a birthday message from her parents on Skype. It had become a tradition since they hadn't been home for the celebration for the last 7-8 years.

The routine was set in stone - she'd get up, have her birthday breakfast cooked by the penthouse staff, and then be presented with the exact cake every year: a chocolate buttercream golden cake with sprinkles. Later, a private birthday dinner would be held at Pierre Gagnaire à Séoul with a carefully curated group of friends to post their equally curated group photos on Instagram. It was the same predictable pattern every year with the necessary changes to fit her social media circle, followed by 364 routinely identical days until June 1st rolled around again.  

Chaerin groaned loudly, already feeling the weight of the day's familiarity ahead of her. Mentally, she felt as if she was placed behind a well-constructed fence designed to protect her but also shield her from the rest of the world. The security her parents had built around her began to feel suffocating, even if she understood its reasons. She was their rainbow baby- their only child after so much loss- and the weight of keeping her safe regardless of any situation lingered between them.

Their love for her was never in doubt, but that love had formed an environment where control and sheltering had become second nature. Their high-profile careers worsened things—her mother, a corporate executive of the successful skincare brand Misun Cosmetics, and her father, a private investor, were always away. They were busy managing their professional empires while ensuring she stayed safely inside the fortress they built for her.

She heard the familiar notification ding from her laptop as she finally got up and went to her desk. The Skype link shared by her father is ready to be clicked. She hesitated momentarily, her finger hovering over the mouse before clicking the link.

Chaerin sat at the kitchen table, eating her breakfast for the day. The chef had prepared a Moroccan-themed breakfast with a side of Miyeok-guk, which was something different that at least pleased her just a little bit.

She sat at the table and pondered what she could do for her birthday. The usual choices were shopping, which never failed to make her happy, sightseeing, crawling back into bed and streaming Netflix, or even catching a flight to Tokyo, which was only two hours away. But none of these options felt right, and she was getting frustrated.  

It only took minutes before she abruptly leaped from her seat and ran back to her room. Her heart pounded with the rush of excitement as the idea struck her. Today wasn't just any birthday - it was her eighteenth! She could finally act on something she had been toying with for weeks.  

To satisfy her need for something different, she's been third-wheeling it with one of her best friends, Nari, and her boyfriend, Junho, who was just weird and greasy, and his friends, who had been racing motorcycles in the shadowy streets of Gangseo District. She would say she was studying with Nari to get any deployed security off her back. Plus, she was getting older, so her parents did ease their eye off her for a bit (and a bit is being generous). It was their favorite pastime, and sometimes, she'd ride on the back of the bikes of some of Junho's friends, but that was it. It was fun for a while, but that's not what captured her interest. It was something - or someone - else entirely.  

Outside Nocturne, a club notorious for drawing in some of the city's most dangerous crowds, Chaerin had first seen him. Or rather, she had noticed his friend first. A hulking figure who was broad and intimidating, with a scar etched like lightning down the side of his face. His presence was enough to stop anyone in their tracks, and to be honest, she would both embrace and run from this man if she were alone with him in a dark alleyway.

But it wasn't until he shifted aside that Chaerin saw the person who caught her breath.  

The stranger who followed was tall and lean; his body cut with strength but moved with a quiet, deliberate grace. He wasn't cut from the same cloth as the boys she was used to hanging out with; he was something else entirely. He wore dark clothes - a black jacket, dark cargo pants, and heavy boots - that made him blend into the shadows. His sharp gaze gave him an aura of danger, which seemed to draw attention without him needing to say much of anything. Even though he couldn't have been older than Chaerin, he carried an air of experience that he had seen more of the world than she did.

She had watched him hanging around Nocturne for nearly a week, always at a distance. It was an unspoken game of cat and mouse, and she was sure he didn't notice her, but she made sure to see him. Whenever she was in the Gangseo District with Nari, she would always find him as if pulled by an invisible force.

But now, on her eighteenth birthday, she decided it was time to make her move. She wasn't someone to linger in the background anyway; she had to see who this man really was. Tonight, she would step into the shadows, hoping that this time, she would meet him and have the stranger for herself.

Chaerin didn't hesitate. She grabbed her phone from her nightstand and immediately called Nari. The phone barely rang before Nari picked up.  

"Rinnie! Happy Birthd-"  

"Nari, I've got an idea for tonight," Chaerin said, cutting her off as her voice buzzed excitedly. "After dinner, why don't you and your weird ass boyfriend come with me to Nocturne? We can have a little after-party celebration!"  

Nari paused for a moment, which caught Chaerin off guard. "First of all, he's not weird! And also Nocturne? I've never been there before, but I heard like a shootout happened a couple weeks ago..." she admitted, the slightest hint of hesitation creeping into her voice.  

Chaerin ignored this and laughed lightly at her friend's uncertainty. "If a shootout does happen, we'll just run for the back door, okay?"  

"Chaerin-"  

"Nari, come on. It's my 18th birthday, and we need to do something big! It's going to be super wild, and we'll be together, okay? Plus, Junho will be there, so it will be perfect." She said, and after a moment, Nari sighed, "Okay, you've convinced me. I'll talk to him, but count us in."  

Chaerin squeals, already anticipating the stranger and the night ahead. With the plan sealed, the night promises something unforgettable—what could go wrong?  

Later that night, Nari, Junho, and Chaerin arrive at Nocturne. At the entrance, the burly bodyguard scanned their IDs with a skeptical look, his eyes narrowing as he noticed they were all under 19. The legal age was previously changed about a year ago because a 16-year-old boy was murdered two blocks away from the club. The rule was set, and it looked like the bouncer wasn't going to bend for shit.  

Before Chaerin could protest, Junho stepped forward with a sly smile, pulling out his wallet and slipping a few bills into the guard's hand, which she rolled her eyes. "It's her birthday," he said, nodding toward Chaerin, who stood behind him.  

The bodyguard paused before pocketing the cash with a barely noticeable nod, and they were waved inside.  

Junho flashed a cheesy grin at Chaerin. "I'll have the bill on your door by tomorrow," he said as she flipped him the middle finger while Nari chuckled.  

As soon as they stepped inside, the music's thumping bass hit them like a wave. The flashing lights danced across the walls, turning everything into a blur of neon and moving shadows. The air was thick with excitement and the heavy scent of sweat, alcohol, and perfume.  

Chaerin, without hesitation, pulled Nari to the center of the dance floor, with Junho following them. The crowd was already swaying in sync with the loud music. While Nari and Junho started dancing together, Chaerin found a dance partner on her own. A tall guy with a confident smile caught her eye and stepped closer, his intentions extremely clear. She always welcomed the attention, and her movement began to match his. The guy leaned in, his voice barely audible over the noise. "You look real sexy out there." he flirted, flashing a playful grin.  

Chaerin smirked, her energy rising. "I know!" she shot back, laughing with a teasing edge.

The banter continued as they moved together, the flirtation adding to the thrill of the night. For a while, she completely forgot about the world outside of this. Every laugh, touch, and beat added to the rush she felt.  

But after a while, her movement began to slow. Something in the atmosphere had shifted, and it was changing the exhilaration that she had felt moments ago. She began to feel the hairs on the back of her neck stand up.  

Someone was watching her.  

She could feel it—a presence, eyes locked on her from somewhere in the crowded room. The once liberating feeling suddenly felt heavy, and her body tensed as she scanned the room, searching for the source. Her dance partner quickly noticed the shift in her mood, and his confusion was evident. It wasn't until she looked up and saw him that she realized it was him.  

Her eyes locked onto the mysterious stranger, standing by the railing in the VIP section, staring directly at her. His gaze was intense, penetrating, and unrelenting.

She had stopped dancing altogether, stumbling slightly from the shock and surprise. The realization had it her like some crushing wave. Did he notice her watching him this entire time? This whole fucking time?

As Chaerin stood frozen, trying to process the situation, she noticed another woman approach the stranger. The woman touched his chest, leaning in to whisper something in his ear. Chaerin stiffened, an unexpected jealously tightening in her chest for someone she didn't know. But the feeling would quickly shift when the stranger dismissed the woman with a wave, sending her back to the VIP section without a second thought.  

His gaze briefly returned to Chaerin before disappearing back into the shadows, leaving her standing there with her heart racing and her mind spinning.

She didn't even know what to make of it. He physically said absolutely nothing but said so much with one look. Was he sending her a message that he knows that she's been practically stalking him? Was he daring her to come meet him? Did he care whether she picked option A or B? It felt like a game of chess, a game that she had never bothered to play, yet she was maneuvering through it without a single clue.  

Suddenly, she became aware that her dance partner had left her alone. A quick glance revealed that Nari and Junho had found their way to a dimly lit table, making themselves incredibly cozy in each other's company.  

Chaerin's gaze shifted back toward the VIP section, her eyes darting to the elegant curve of the staircase leading up to it. The familiar flame that she felt in her belly the night she saw him for the first time was spreading fast, and it pushed her to quickly make her way to the staircase before she could second-guess herself.  

Just as she approached the VIP section, the man she had noticed before - the one with the lightning strike scar across his face - stepped in front of her and blocked her path. She was beginning to become tired of all of these fucking rules and regulations. She felt like this was more like a prison than a club. Why is nobody letting her do what she wants?  

Before she could start complaining, a voice cut through the club's noise.  

"Let her through."  

The bouncer glanced back at the source of the command, gave a nonchalant shrug, and stepped aside. Chaerin's heart raced as she barely shoved the bouncer out of the way and made her way through the velvet rope. Without hesitation, she even edged between the stranger and the girl from earlier casually seated next to him.  

She would have no idea this bold, instinctual, and unplanned move would change her life forever.