#still not over the finale though they did it so well

[woso-dreamzzz]

Head in the Clouds II

Barcelona Femení x Teen!Reader

Summary: You remain dazed and confused

You went crashing to the ground, skidding across the wet pitch.

"You feeling okay, champ?"

You groan, clutching at your ribs as you roll onto your back. "Can you tell Bright to please leave me alone? You're friends, right?"

Lucy laughs. "Funny, kid. Real funny. You feeling good, though? Okay to continue?"

You huff and let Lucy pull you up, wiping the rain from your face.

Chelsea had upped their game since that red card, truly, and as one of the younger ones on the pitch, you were baring the brunt of it. It seemed that they had forgotten you were once their academy player just like you did.

Though, to be fair, yours was more of you had genuinely forgotten while this seemed more like revenge on their part.

"Atta-girl," Lucy says, clapping you on the back.

"Hey," Ingrid approaches as well," That looked nasty. How are your ribs?"

"Sore," You answer," But I think I can keep going."

"There's that winning mentality!" Lucy says," Sticking it out until the end."

Ingrid gives Lucy a pointed look. "You know, I think I preferred it when you were more protective over her. She's hurt her ribs, Lucy!"

"I'll be fine."

"See! She'll be fine!"

Ingrid rolls her eyes but moves to take the free kick you've just won.

You go streaking up the pitch after it.

Carter and Charles both run up either side of you just as you release the ball from your foot, sending it towards Hampton.

One of them jostles you off balance and you trip, going careening forward.

It must have been a pretty forceful shove because you gain a lot of air, very quickly.

Quick enough to meet up with the ball you've already released.

You smash the top of your head against it just as you land on the ground.

"Ow..." You say to no one as your ribs flair in pain again as your body meets the pitch.

Over the ringing of your ears, you can't hear the roar of the crowd as your head propels the ball just an inch too far for Hampton to get her glove around.

It slots itself in the net but you're still faceplanted in the dirt to have even noticed.

Someone grabs you, Patri, you find, and shakes you almost too violently.

She's saying something but all you can do is mindlessly stare in confusion at her.

"I taught her that!" Lucy's proud voice cuts through the ringing in your ears. "Did you know? I taught her that."

"Sure, Luce," Comes Keira's dry reply.

"What? I did! Even the landing!"

"I..." You say, rubbing a sore spot on your head. "What happened?"

Patri laughs, jostling you again. "You just scored, idiot!"

"Did I?"

"Yes!" Comes the chorus of voice arounds you and you glance around to see the rest of the team.

"Oh...When did you guys get here?"

"How are your ribs?" It's Paredes now and you frown, pressing on them.

You wince. "I'll live."

Keira sighs. "God, Luce, couldn't you teach her anything else? We don't need another Lucy Bronze running around."

Lucy grins. "I think we do. She's my protégé."

"I don't think Alexia would be happy hearing you say that."

Lucy suddenly turns pale, eyes wide. "Oh, shit. Don't tell her I said that."

They go back and forth while you still stare up at confusion in the screen displaying the 3-0 score to Barcelona.

"Seriously," Paredes says," Your ribs. Are they okay?"

"I can still play on them."

"So they're not okay." She gestures to Jona to sub you off.

"But..."

"We need you for the final," She says to you," Besides, the match is nearly over. They're not catching up to us now."

Bruna comes on in your place and you sit, dazed and confused on the bench.

Jana giggles at your face, poking your cheeks as you try to mull over your goal.

"Are you sure it counts?" You ask.

"Are you saying they should disallow it?"

"No!" You say quickly," But...I don't know."

"Tell you what," Jana giggles," If this football thing doesn't work out for you then professional clown might."

You frown. "Huh?"

She mimics the face you pulled when you found out the ball went in.

Your eyes go wide.

"Oh no."

She grins. "Oh yes. It's been, what, five minutes? I've already seen ten separate Twitter accounts with it as the profile picture."

[catch1ngmoths]

🫧𓇼*ੈTIME AFTER TIME✩‧₊˚🎐

𝄞⨾𓍢ִ໋ “If your lost, you can look, and you will find me..time after time. If you fall I will catch you, I’ll be waiting…time after time” -Cyndi Lauper 𝄞⨾𓍢ִ໋

Summary: after a one night stand with Joost you both can’t seem to get each other out of y’all’s heads. You were always on his mind since then and you couldn’t stop thinking about the blond boy with the cute accent… until your paths cross once more. This time Joost won’t walk away

Note: (all credit for the edit above goes to MCRBATS on TikTok!!) this is a part two for “only stay with you one more night” ITS FINALLY OUT GUYSSS!! I beg for more requests because yall give me the most scrumptious ideas for fics ever!! Also, this is kinda bad so please don’t jump me!!!

Warnings: SUGGESTIVE, Talk of past sexual relations, mostly fluff!

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It had been months, you hadn’t seen Joost since that night that left you both achey in a good and bad way. You’d pondered on your thoughts and feelings towards the blondie and you mentally scolded yourself for thinking he’d come back for you. It obviously meant nothing to him, he probably sleeps with people left and right. You were no different to all the others in his mind.

But you were. Joost couldn’t get your name out his mind. Couldn’t get your pretty face and voice out of his mind. He kept thinking about the way you said moaned his name and how soft your hands were against his rough ones. He wanted to go back in time and make himself bite the curb for leaving your apartment that early morning.

You were so so so much different. Sure, this one night stand wasn’t his first rodeo but the way he looked at you was. The way he felt towards you was, he didn’t know why. He really didn’t. He’d only fully been around you for around 5 hours but those moments gave him a feeling he’d never felt before. He felt so much love, care, and warmth towards your personal being and just wanted to protect you from everything.

He’d ruined it though, we walked through and out your front door that morning. He felt cold as soon as he did but there was no going back now. He had in his signature white earbuds in while he looked out the window of the Uber that was taking him home, his mind still on you. And just like that, that was the last time he’d seen your beautiful face and your addicting scent.

The sound of his friend, apson calling his name pulled him out of his trance. He was setting up for his concert in a few hours, when he was preforming it was the only time he could get you off his mind…well somewhat at least. He went over and helped out apson and the rest of his crew and friends. Helping them set everything up and getting everything done for tonight.

You on the other hand were at your friend, Alexis’s house just hanging out when she interrupted you while you were talking. Her eyes were wide like she’d just remembered something and her movements were one of excitement, taking you aback. “Oh my god!! Sorry to interrupt you but I totally forgot about something, so Mia, Rayo, and Lacey are coming over later and we’re all going to a musicians concert Mia likes!!”

You stare at her with a smile and sarcasm laced in your voice, “now why the hell would you wanna interrupt my story to tell me about that?” You say with a chuckle, “beaacauseee…I want you to come with! It’ll be fun and I know the others would love to have you there too!” You furrow your eyebrows, this reminded you of that night where they all begged you to come out to that club with them where you met that boy you haven’t been able to get your mind off of.

You take a deep sigh, “Lex you know how I feel about things like that.” You reply but Alexis isn’t ready to back down just yet, “no I know but this concert will be different, it’s not as big as mainstream concerts and Mia said it’ll be fun!!” Alexis says looking at you with those puppy eyes and pouting in a sarcastic way.

You groan and just like you did that night months ago you agree. Around an hour later the rest of your friends show up a to get ready. You hang with Rayo fixing your makeup before looking over to him, “who are we even seeing anyways?” You ask him curiously, “man I don’t remember, I just remember Mia putting on his music and showing me a picture of him. Good looking guy and his music isn’t bad whatsoever…soo” Rayo replies with a smile

‘Whatever..’ you think, ‘at least this will be something to get me out the house and doing something.’ You sigh as your friends squeal and run to the car, excited to go. You laugh at their childishness and run after them. It takes around 20 minutes to arrive and the whole time your driving you feel this sensation in your chest, you can’t stop thinking about Joost…he was always on your mind don’t get me wrong but something about this was just different.

Joost was backstage, talking with his friends and trying to calm his excitement for the concert. But something about this felt oddly familiar, he’d never felt this before any concert. His mind now fully immersed and focused on you, he shakes his head as apson calls him over. Trying to shake the thought of you out his mind, as he gets up from where he was sat to walk to apson.

“Het concert begint zo, zijn jullie er klaar voor?” (The concerts gonna start soon, are you ready?) Apson says to Joost, clapping his hand on his shoulder with a smile. Joost takes a breath and smiles at apson, “Ja, ben je er klaar voor? Heb je nog ergens hulp bij nodig?” (Yeah, are you ready? Do you need help with anything else?) Joost replies, nudging apson with his shoulder, this makes apson clasp his hands together. “Ah, Ja, dat ben ik helemaal vergeten. Kom met me mee” (ah, yes, I completely forgot. Come with me..) apson says as the two men walk to set one last thing up.

You and your friends finally arrived to the concert. You all scooted to the front, people being nice enough to let y’all shuffle through. You and your friends talked before music played out making everyone around you, plus your friends scream with excitement. A guy runs out on stage, dressed in a while collared shirt with a black tie and black pants.

He has…short, messy, blond hair.. the same hair Joost had. No way, that wouldn’t be him- that was what you thought before he turned to face the crowd. Those features. Holy shit. It was him. He spoke into the microphone and you immediately knew from the sound of that pretty accent. It was Joost, the boy you couldn’t get out of your head.

Your mind races and you can’t decide if you should be excited or mortified that he’s standing right in front of you. On one hand, this is the boy you’ve wanted to be reunited with for months. On the other hand, it’s embarrassing to face him now. You secretly hope he’ll see you and you’re also hoping he won’t.

He sings his song, “offline” as he looks at the crowd before he sees it. He thinks he’s imagining things, you’ve been a constant in his head for months but there’s no way you’re here right now. No way you’re looking up at him with the same shocked expression that his face definitely has. His voice slightly shakes but he keeps on singing. He’s imagining shit, god he needs to get it together

But it wasn’t his imagination. You were there, for the rest of the concert you and Joost made continuous eye contact. And after the concert was done and Joost was backstage he was his wracking his brain for any way he could catch you. He couldn’t let you leave again, he just got given a second chance and he wasn’t about to give it up.

You were thinking the same things, you were alone in your mind the whole concert. You were thinking and planing about what to do after this, once the concert was done and everyone was leaving. You panicked, “u-um you guys can leave without me, I can get an Uber back home! I need to do something..! I’ll text you when I get home safe!” You say

You knew they wouldn’t let you so you run away before they can protest against your words. You look around, after your far enough away. You second guess yourself once your by yourself. Your heart is racing but your thoughts won. What if he didn’t wanna see you? What is he forgot about you and everything about that night.? You shake your head and realize what you’re doing, your friends probably haven’t gotten far.

Before you can run back to your friends you hear heavy footsteps, you turn around frantically. And you finally see Joost turning the corner to the hallway to where you were. He turns his head when you both lock eyes, both of you freezing. You stared at each other, breathing heavily and hearts racing.

“J-Joost..?” You stutter out, your voice weak and body stiff. He immediately breaks out of his trace at the sound of that voice that he’d missed so much. He runs towards you and embraces you, it was strange…it really was. This amount of affection for someone you hadn’t seen a few months and only spend one night together.

But it felt like you both were intertwined, sewn together in some way (Adrianne Lenker mentioned?!) He smiles, picking you up and spinning you around. “Holy shit it’s really you, fuck I’m so sorry. I regretted leaving as soon as I closed your door. I’m sorry if I made you feel used or unimportant, your not and i-“ he’s put off my a soft kiss being pressed to his lips

You grab his face as his hands pull your waist to be flush against his hips. Both of you are out of breath, pressing messy and rough kisses to each others lips. You moan softly on his lips and joost took his opportunity to slip his tounge into your mouth. Nothing but love shown in the kisses as he presses you up against the wall behind you, towering over you as you finally pull away.

“I’m not letting you go again, I hope you’re aware of that..” he says with his signature smile and you giggle before responding, “I wouldn’t have it any other way..” you say before he lowers his head, catching your lips in his once more

𝄞⨾𓍢ִ໋ “ Wanna listen to the sound of you blinking, wanna listen to your hands soothe. Listen to your heart beating, listen to the way you move” - Adrianne lenker 𝄞⨾𓍢ִ໋

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TAGLIST: @timewillpasssoon @poppymelonz @pickle-juice-and-vodka @imsiriuslyreal

[babygorewhore]

Staying over

Frat! Rafe Cameron x autistic! Fem reader

Rafe brings you over to his apartment to stay over for the first time. W. C 1.4K

Warnings! Mutual masturbation! Choking! Spitting! Daddy kink! Unprotected sex! Dividers by @xxbimbobunnyxx reader is autistic but it’s not explicitly said!

Your bag was stuffed with pajamas, medication, stuffed animals, and of course a charger for your headphones. It was the first night you were spending the night at Rafe’s apartment off the college campus as his girlfriend. You weren’t necessarily nervous staying with him. It was more about the change in routine being at someone else’s house. Rafe did pretty well in accommodating you and your needs but you were still apprehensive.

He opened the door for you, carrying your bag as you pulled off your headphones. He bought you a really expensive pair two weeks ago, one of the nicest gifts you’d ever received. But you loved giving him gifts too, especially hand crafted. You removed your shoes, matching socks padding the hardwood floor as you looked around. You saw your trinkets you made him on his desk and shelves.

“Aw, you have them up!” You grin and he nods.

“Of course I do, princess. My girls talent is always gonna be shown off.” You blush and look at the floor as you both walk into his bedroom. He sets down your bag and pulls you into a hug.

“You okay, baby? Hungry?” Rafe sets his chin on top of your head.

“No, I ate before you picked me up.” You answer back and he sighs.

“I love you, princess. I’m glad you’re here. I missed you.”

You giggle and bury your face in his chest. “We talked last night. And this morning. And this afternoon-“

“So? I want you with me all the time. You’re my favorite person.” He mumbles, playing with your hair and he pulls back. Rafe’s blue eyes search yours but your gaze roam his face.

“Do you wanna get comfortable? Watch a movie or something?”

You playfully poke his shoulder.

“Is that just an excuse, Mr. Cameron? For you to get me in your bed?” He smirks and leans down.

“I don’t need an excuse for that, baby. But I don’t want to overwhelm you or anything.”

“You’re sweet, you know that, Rafe?” He breathlessly runs a hand through his hair, flustered by your compliment.

“Yeah, only for you though. But damn, babe. How much did you pack for tonight?” He gestures to your backpack. “You gonna change outfits every hour?”

You push him gently with a laugh. “Shut up! I need my things or I’ll lose my mind!”

Rafe sits on the bed, legs spread as he rests his elbows on the mattress. His shirt material bunching. “Easy with the violence, baby girl. Why don’t you get changed? Show me what you brought.”

You unzip your bag, pulling out a cute piece you bought the other day. The material was soft and comfortable. An oversized Ghostface night shirt that would reach your mid thigh with your black pair of shorts.

You quickly changed, his eyes sweeping over you as you stood in front of him. Rafe’s hand settled low on your hips, fingers playing with the material of your shorts. “Mmm, you’re so pretty, princess. You’re my fuckin dream girl.”

You bite your lip, feeling slightly anxious as you notice a change in sound. It must have been a dying battery somewhere but it was making your skin crawl. You wanted your headphones but you also didn’t want to seem like you wanted to tune him out.

“You don’t think I’m…weird, right?” You ask quietly and he frowns.

“Uh oh. I know that look. You want your headphones?” You grimace and nod.

“I’m sorry. I’m trying to tolerate more but-“ Rafe tugs your face to him, cupping your neck.

“Nah, baby. None of that. It’s okay. I know what I signed up for.” You smile gratefully as he brings them to you seconds later, securing them around your ears.

After needed time of quiet, you sat on his bed with your eyes shut as you held your plushie close to you and Rafe tried not to fidget too much. Finally, you removed your barrier and set them down on his side table.

“Can we watch something?”

“Of course, baby doll. Anything you want. Even the scary shit.” You immediately perk up, media being some of your special interests.

“Sinister?” You suggest and he grimaces before catching himself. “What? Is that one too much for my big scary boyfriend?” You tease.

“Fuck no. I wouldn’t be a fuckin dumbass and stay in the house like that dude did.”

“No, you’d offer the demon to snort a line of coke with you.” You dead pan and he laughs. Loudly.

“Jesus, you’re funny.”

You were hyper focused on the movie as the night went on, informing Rafe facts you’d learned by hours of research on your own time and he listened best he could. But you didn’t notice his hand lingering around his crotch. Not until the movie was over and you had laid flat on your back with him next to you.

You felt him shift and you grew quiet. Your own needs rising as Rafe switched his LED lights on a dimmer setting. His fingers drifted to touch your arm, tracing your skin as he looked at you.

“You’re driving me insane, doll. I feel like I’m gonna fuckin bust in my pants.” You swallow and stare at the ceiling.

“Driving you insane?”

“Yeah. Your body is perfect. Shorts barely covering your ass and tits bouncing. You don’t even have to try. I’ve been thinking about you staying here for days. I jerk off about it.” He admits without an ounce of shame and your face heats up.

“Me too.”

“Yeah? You finger fuck that wet pussy thinking about me?” Rafe asks, his voice growing lower and you nod. Play with that pussy then you’re gonna cream on my dick.”

You suck your fingers, getting them damp before you tug down your shorts and panties. Your cunt clenches as you circle your clit, wetness pulsing as you feel Rafe take his cock in his fist. You slide two fingers in easily, your body accustomed to this as you pump them. You moan as you hear Rafe pant and feel him roll his hips.

“Ah, fuck. Something about you alone in your room, fucking yourself while you think about me.” He strokes harder before he finally breaks and pulls you on top of him.

Your legs straddle his lap, his hands gripping your ass as he pushes you down on his dick, he sits up and you tear off his shirt. Your fingernails lightly dig into his chest. You take him to the hilt, your right hand moving to play with his balls.

“Look at me,” He orders and you bounce on his cock, avoiding his eyes but he refused to let it go. “No. Keep your eyes on me, princess. I wanna see how it good it feels when you cream on my cock,” he growls and you obey him as you grind down.

He massages your tits as he helps you, your movements growing sloppy as you get closer. “Rafe-it feels so good-“ You stammer and he grunts.

“Yeah, babydoll? You like it when daddy fills you up? You like being a greedy little slut for me?” You nod with a whimper and he slaps your ass hard. “Cum for me, princess. And then I’m gonna fucking pound you until you’re screamin.”

You cum all over his dick, whining as you shake and your vision goes white but he’s relentless as he flips you on your back. His hand around your throat. He lifts one leg over his shoulder, getting a deeper angle and thrusts harder.

You shriek from overstimulation but your hands clutch his shoulders. “Open your mouth,” He says and you do. He spits inside, “You’re such a good girl, baby. Taking me like a fucking whore,”

“Mhm, needed this so bad, daddy. I want you to cum in me, want it to spill out and soak the bed.” You beg and he moans, tightening his grip on your neck, keeping your eyes on him.

“That’s it, princess. Proud of you for talking through it,” He huffs before he cums in you, the headboard slamming against the wall and your pussy squelches. He lets go of your throat, hands on either side of your head as he fucks through his climax.

“Fuck, princess. Squeezing me so hard, your cunt feels so good,” He praises and you blink rapidly as he pulls out, pumping his dick and cum drips on your tits. “Messy little slut. I want you to get on all fours. Gonna cum on that pretty tattoo on your back.”

Tagging @marchsfreakshow @drewstarkeyslut @slvt4jamesmarch @redhead1180 @rafesthroatbaby @rafescurtainbangz @rafeinterlude @gri959 @oceandriveab @starkeysprincess

[thebibliosphere]

I probably have hEDS, have had tense muscles since I was 8 and more and more of my joints started to be in constant pain, 10 years spine, 14 years hips, then hands at 19 and now all of them. And though I'm over 40 and don't practice any stretching, I still can contort myself in any direction.

But I don't know if it's worth the energy to fight for a diagnosis? Because it doesn't seem like there is any help, other than mild painkillers and physiotherapy, and I already get that. It is so much work to convince doctors to look into the source of joint pain, as soon as they can rule out rheumatoid arthritis they stop caring. And I don't belive I will get stronger painkillers even with a diagnosis anyway.

Do you think a diagnosis is woth the hassel?

For me, diagnosis was worth it because it meant getting the correct kind of physical therapy, which is often very different from the regular kind you usually get if the physical therapist is good at their job.

Regular PT used to damage my joints more. PT designed to target hypermobility has actually helped build joint stability, retrain my muscles, and reduce some of my pain by lessening the frequency of injuries.

It’s also good to know because hEDS affects more than just your joints.

I have a lot of problems with my internal organs due to how my connective tissue is affected, and my brother, who is undiagnosed but likely affected, suffered from spontaneous retina detachment twice. When I mentioned it to my eye doctor he said, “yeah, that happens to you zebras” and now I get my retinal health assessed every six months because fuck that.

It can also be good to know because of how it affects your care during things like surgery, ranging from which anesthesia they use to the type of sutures required.

When my mother had a mastectomy, she experienced several surgical complications, including not being able to get the wound site to close, so they kept dragging her back into surgery.

When I found out, I told my dad the surgical team needed to know my mother likely had hEDS because I did, and my mother and I are carbon copies of each other. When my dad told the surgeon, he apparently said, “Well, if I’d known that, I’d have done the whole thing differently!” and finally got my mother stitched up properly and into recovery.

In that regard, my diagnosis helped not just me but a family member, but also indicated the type of care I’ll likely need if I’m ever in the same situation.

So, yes, it's a hassle to get diagnosed and some (bad) doctors will frame it in terms of “there’s no cure so there’s no point.”

But for me, it’s not only been worth it but also vital to the management of the rest of my care. And let me be clear, there are some people for whom this is just a crappy joint disorder, and they are otherwise fine. But for many of us, we’re more than just our fucky joints. We’re an entire plethora of health problems that all cascade from our weak connective tissue, and it's important more people recognize that.

So is it worth it for you? That's a you decision. But it was very much worth it for me.

I wish you luck and fewer days of pain. This shit sucks.

[strangersmunsons]

you're Eddie's dream girl. it's too bad you can't stand him. eddie munson x fem!reader, ~ 850 words this is about them, btw. a companion/prequel blurb to conversation hearts.

“Do you wanna get pizza after Hellfire, or would you rather go to Benny’s and —?”

The words fall on deaf ears. Eddie trails behind you in the hallway, eyes fixated on your figure and nothing else. He doesn’t even feel it when his shoulder knocks into Jeff’s; he just walks away dreamily, as though floating on a cloud.

Jeff snorts out a laugh while shaking his head, torn between amusement and exasperation. 

“Man, you’re not even listening,” Gareth complains to Eddie’s retreating back. He and Jeff fall behind as Eddie quickens his pace, in hot pursuit of his girl.

His girl. 

God, he wishes.

Eddie follows you at a distance through the halls, weaving his way through the crowd of students, not letting you out of his sight. When you eventually duck through the door to the library, he doesn’t hesitate to follow suit.

You don’t appear to have noticed him, even when he situates himself at a table quite close to yours. A comically large math textbook open on your left, and a well-loved spiral notebook on the right, you’re the picture of studiousness as your gaze flits between the two, eyes narrowed in fierce concentration.

You look adorable; the way your lips move silently as you read the numbers of the equation you’re working through, the confused little scrunch of your nose when you hit a dead end in your calculations. And when you get stuck on a particularly frustrating problem, you give your homework a full-blown pout.

Too fucking cute. It’s not fair.

Overwhelmed by the need for attention — your attention — he lets out an obnoxious cough, hoping you’ll spare a glance his way. 

To his delight, you finally look up, eyes quickly scanning the room for the culprit until they land on him. But instead of lighting up at the sight of him and his winning smile, your face crumples in annoyance. You snap your head back over your papers, staring resolutely down.

Eddie watches you mournfully, now sporting a pout of his own. He lets out another loud, exaggerated cough, but you don’t cede to his antics.

Time to pull out the big guns.

Grabbing a composition book from his backpack, he tears out a blank page and wads it into a ball. Closing it tightly in his fist, he cocks his arm back and lets it fly.

It soars through the air in a perfect arc all the way to its target, where it smacks you lightly in the temple. Your mouth pops open in shock at his audacity, but you still don’t give him the satisfaction of turning to look. Instead, you visibly huff, and snatch your belongings up in a heap before storming out of the library.

Eddie finally calls out, “Aw, c’mon, sweetheart!”

The librarian, seeming to appear from thin air, swoops in on him like a hawk. “Munson!” she hisses through her teeth. “How many times do I have to tell you —”

Eddie rises from his chair before she can finish reprimanding him. “Yeah, yeah, I know. I’m leaving.”

Lunch is almost over by the time Eddie makes it to the cafeteria. He drops his lunchbox unceremoniously onto the table with a clang, and plops down in his usual seat at the head of the table. A hush falls over the group as everyone turns to look at him, all mildly amused.

Jeff is the first to break the silence. He raises an eyebrow at him. “So. How did that work out for you?”

Eddie stretches his limbs, then bends his arms at the elbows so he can lace his fingers together behind his head. “I’m gettin’ there, fellas,” he says casually. “Remember, the tortoise won the race, not the hare.”

Dustin pipes up. “I’m not sure that’s the right analogy for what’s happening here.”

Eddie flicks a pretzel at him.

“I’m just saying, she seems a little irritated, if anything.” 

Eddie’s heart soars, and his head twists like it’s on a swivel, eagerly searching the cafeteria for your pretty face. “Is she in here?” Without waiting for an answer, he climbs and stands on top of his chair, using the extra height to get a better view of the room.

Laughter bubbles up uncontrollably out of Gareth. “What’re you doing?” he wheezes. 

People from surrounding tables cast him furtive glances, no doubt anticipating another unsolicited Eddie Munson lunchtime rant, but he pays them no mind. There’s only one person in here he cares about right now, and that’s you.

You! Three tables down, nibbling at a sandwich and doing calculus with your free hand. He calls your name and you look up automatically, startled.

He smacks a wet kiss to his hand and blows it towards you, then wiggles his fingers in greeting. Grinning big and cheesily all the while, fluttering his lashes like something out of a cartoon.

Lips parted, eyes huge, you don’t say anything in response. You just let your head drop onto the table before you, right onto your notes. You don’t look up.

Jeff whistles. “Yeah, man. You’re a real casanova.”

“Shut up. I’m trying to make her love me."

[honeipie]

THE MOMENT

izuku x fem!reader

synopsis: izuku is asked the exact moment that he fell in love with his wife, and he knows exactly when

authors note: why do i keep writing about podcasts all of a sudden lmaoooo 😭 also i proofread this when i was tired asf so if it’s bad sorryyyy

“it’s really nice to have you here mr. midoryia! thank you for agreeing to join us on our podcast. we know how busy you are saving the country, so it’s nice to see you in a different light” the man flashed him a smile, which izuku was happy to return.

“yeah of course! i figured i should see why everyone is telling me that this podcast is so great” izuku crossed one of his legs over the other. his pr team thought it’d be a good idea to branch out from the regular news interviews and talk shows, so they had scheduled him a podcast episode on the number one podcast in japan.

“so having the number one hero with us is of course a prime opportunity to pick your brain. all about your hero work, who your role models were throughout the years, and maybe let us look behind the big deku label and just let us get to know midoryia izuku if you allow”

izuku nodded with his picture perfect smile “i’d like that. most people don’t respect that i’m an actual person and not just some figure with no feelings, so i really appreciate that”

the host nodded looking down at his phone “so first we wanted to give you a big congratulations! you are your wife are celebrating your second year of marriage. that must be nice”

“yes we did! thank you from both of us really. i took some time off and we had a really, really nice vacation together. it was nice to be away from all the eyes for a while”

“of course! i know it can probably get hard with all the fans that you have. everybody wanting an autograph, kids lining up to meet you, both women and men alike wanting a chance with you even though you’re clearly married. how do you deal with that in your relationship?”

“a lot of communication, like, a lot” izuku nodded his head slowly just to make his point “we set boundaries to make sure we’re comfortable with everything that happens. like one thing she’s not very comfortable with is fans kissing me on the cheek, and i totally respect that! the first time it happened we did have a bit of falling out but we communicated and got through it”

the host nodded his head listening along “he’s not just good at saving the world folks! he’s also a relationship pro”

this made both of them laugh easing away any underlying tensions that were there before.

“staying on the topic of your relationship we have a question. every week we ask people what questions to ask to our guests when they come onto the show, and the most asked question was this. what was the exact moment that you fell in love with your wife? i mean she must’ve done something to make you look at her the way you do”

“hearty question,” he joked rubbing his hand against his chin “but i’m pretty sure i know when. it was back in UA, third year. it was our last big event before we graduated and i was struggling to get ready”

he could imagine it like it happened yesterday. third year izuku midoryia stood looking at himself in the mirror with an annoyed look on his face. it had been three years and he still hadn’t learned how to tie his damned tie. the lump of a tie sat dead center on his chest staring right back at him, taunting him.

it’s not like he didn’t try to learn. he had kacchan try to teach him. that didn’t end well. he had his mom try too, and he ended up getting his hands tangled. and youtube? forget it.

he silently cursed to himself taking off the tie once more. there were three soft knocked at his door, which at this point, annoyed him further.

“kacchan i said i’d be right out! could you at least wait five minutes before coming back?”

“izuku? it’s me” your voice alone made his shoulders ease. he came over to the door shaking his head.

“i’m sorry y/n. i thought you were kacchan-“ when he finally got a good look at you all of his words caught in his throat. you were wearing a sage green dress that went down to your ankles. he wasn’t complaining though because on the left there was a slit where he got a good view of your legs “but you are definitely not him”

you walked past izuku white heels clicking against the floor “i sure hope not. i don’t think he can pull of this dress like i can” izuku shut the door softly then made a beeline over to you. as soon as you turned around you noticed he was leaning down to kiss you “woah there pretty boy,” you held up a single finger blocking his lips “attitude check first, kisses later. what’s the matter?”

he sighed when you rejected his advances “i don’t have an attitude-“

he stopped when you made your ‘don’t lie to me face’

“fine,” he stood in the mirror and watched as you stood next to him. you looked stunning. the way you wore the dress like it was perfectly crafted for you had him staring long and hard. it made him feel like a doofus beside you with his slightly messy hair and chunky tie.

“i can’t get my tie right”

you snorted turning him towards you “you’re acting like that’s new news” he rolled his eyes at your comment pulling away from your hands “no! baby i’m sorry i didn’t mean it” your hands gently grabbed his wrists pulling him back “i’ll do it for you”

his eyebrows scrunched together as you started slipping off his tie “you know how to tie ties? how? why? when?”

you couldn’t help but laugh at his confused state going to wrap the tie around his neck again straightening it out “my grandma taught me. she said that i need to learn if it i ever find that special man in my life. i didn’t really believe her because who the hell would i be tying a tie for?”

he watched carefully as you flipped the tie around with ease. folding it this way, then slipping it through one of the openings. he also watched your face. concentrated on the task at hand. his heart was racing by the time you slide the perfect knot up to his neck. tilting your head you nodded.

“but i’m glad she did y’know,” you grabbed the middle of his tie pulling him in for a kiss. he wrapped one of his arms around your waist and the other hand went securely on your back. when you pulled away there was a stupid grin on your face “cause there’s no one else i would want to do this for”

it was like he was getting hit by a truck of nostalgia. all the feelings he felt in that moment came rushing back to him. the swoop of his stomach when you pulled him into the kiss. the alarms blaring in his head from the new sensation.

he. was. in. love.

the kind of love people look for in movies, books, shows. he found that in you.

he sighed into the kiss going to move you against the wall. you had your hands on his waist trying to steady yourself. when he pulled away your face was flushed from his sudden actions. which he made sure not to mention in the podcast.

“well maybe i should do your ties more often”

“yeah.. you should”

izuku snapped out of the memory finally placing himself back into reality “that’s how i remember it. i don’t know if my wife remembers differently” he shrugged with a smile on his face.

“wow, that is straight out of a romance book. so does she still tie your ties today?”

izuku nodded “oh yeah, i don’t trust anyone else to do it. even on our wedding day i forced her to tie it. she was all worried about me seeing her before the wedding so i covered my eyes”

you stood there in your white dress trying not to laugh at your 6 foot husband covering his face like a child playing hide and seek “you really want me to do this?”

“please honey”

“only since you asked so nicely, but no peeking!” walking over you went to put his tie on like you did every other time. when you finished you gave his chest a pat “there you go champ”

“y/n.. you didn’t give me a kiss”

“what?”

he let out a childlike sigh “every time you do my tie you pull me in for a kiss. that’s how this works”

now you laughed.

“izu we can’t kiss before we have the wedding. it’s not the way it goes”

“i won’t tell anyone!”

after a couple moments of silence he could feel a tug on his tie as you drew him close. it was a quick kiss, but just enough to get him through.

the host nodded along a bit jealous that his love life wasn't as magical.

"if only we could all be like you and your wife deku”

“i get that a lot. my wife’s pretty great”

taglist! @sagejin 🫶🏾

comment if you’d like to be added

[whispersingojo]

Tutoring Date!

Content ✮ fluff!!!! Teen!satoru x teen!reader

Summary ✮ you help Satoru study!!! Even though you go to Jujutsu high…you still have grades to keep up with!

Word count ✮ 1.2k

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“This doesn’t make any seeeeeeeense,” Satoru whiner, leaning back into his chair letting his head fall back.

“It’s not that bad, look-“ you began explaining some of the math on the paper to him, making him groan louder.

“‘Toru you’re surely never going to learn if you don’t try. You have to be pretty AND smart if you ever wanna get a girlfriend,” you put your cheek in your hand, looking at him with a questioning expression.

“No I don’t you know that,” he lifted his head, raising an eyebrow at you and winking.

You looked away, blush starting to form on your face, “let’s just keep working,” you picked your pencil that at and put the one the Satoru put down back forcefully into his hand.

You continued to explain the countless problems on the paper. Some he could understand. Seeing how proud of himself he was for being able to understand they questions made you happy. Seeing him happy made you happy.

Satoru put his pencil down. He leaned back, stretching his tired bones, “I’m getting tired of all these numbers…can we stop for the day? Pleeeeeeaase?” He gave you his biggest puppy eyes he could muster up.

You sighed, leaning back into your chair, “I guess, but we have to finish this tomorrow! Got it?” You pointed your pencil at him and gave a playful glare.

Satoru stood up excitedly, “how does ice cream sound?”

“Thats random…but I guess,” you picked up your pencil case, unzipping it and placing the pencils you had used back into the case, “can you hand me you paper?”

“Oh yeah sure,” Satoru picked up him paper, handing it over to you.

“Thanks,” you looked down at the paper, realizing that his name wasn’t written on the paper, “‘Toru are you nine?” You asked in a disappointed tone.

“What did I do!”

“Your name isn’t on the paper! Yaga literally marks off points for that!” You gently slammed the paper back into the table. Ripping open your pencil case, you slammed the pencil on top of the paper as well, “name,” You said sternly.

“Uuuuugh, fine,” he groaned, picking back up the pencil and scribbling his name on the paper, “can we go now?”

You giggled, picking the paper back up, “yes, we can go now,” you paper clipped all the stuff together, leaving it in a nice pile on the table.

When you turned around to follow Satoru, he was already half way out the door. You shook your head, jogging to catch up with him.

When the two of you finally got to the park where the ice cream stand was, Satoru stopped, “I’m ordering your ice cream,” he said sternly, putting his hands on his hips. Satoru leaned down to your height, “and I’m gonna guess your favorite ice cream.”

“Oh god this is gonna be a disaster,” you mumbled, looking back up at him, “fine then! I’m sure you don’t even remember it anyways,” you spoke to him as if it was a challenge, “I’m gonna go sit over there then, guess meet me there when you’re done.”

Satoru nodded with determination before spinning around to go get your ice creams.

As you sat down beneath the umbrella of your table, your phone when off. You leaned to one side of your body to pull it out, flipping your phone open. You noticed it was Shoko! It read:

S Where the hell are you??

Y I’m out with ‘Toru getting ice cream why??

S We were supposed to go out today that’s why!!

S you hate me now I see how it is…

You laughed to yourself, watching as Shoko’s life supposedly fell apart. The two of you texted back and forth a bit before Satoru came back with your ice creams.

You flipped your phone closed, stuffing it back into your pocket,

“I told the guy up there we’re on a date so we could get free ice cream,” Toru reached out your ice cream to you.

“Oh my god,” you shook your head, “you can’t be lying to people,” you sighed, taking your ice cream from him.

“But free shit! And plus,” he pulled out his chair and sat down, “maybe it could be a date.”

You were mid lick into your ice cream when he said that, “did you trick me into going out on a date with you?”

“Maybe,” he snickered as he took a lick of his own ice cream.

You were to stunned by his words to even recognize what flavor your ice cream was, so you went in for another lick. Your face grew hot rather fast with blush. Both out of his comment-

And the fact he actually got it right.

“So?” He was already half way through his ice cream.

“You got it right, actually,” you responded, enjoying yourself now.

“See? I’m not all that stupid all the time,” he smiled at you, which made butterflies take off in your stomach.

“Umm…sir,”

The two of you looked over to see a girl with trembling hands holding a small piece of paper. She looked extremely nervous. You looked further past her to see a group of more girls standing pretty far behind her all giggling to themselves.

“Yeah what’s up,” he said, taking a bit out of the cone of his nearly finished ice cream.

Satoru side eyed you out the corner of his glasses, which met your side eye. You both knew where this was going.

“Can- can I um…get your number?” The girls held out the small piece of paper. All the girls behind her had gone silent.

“Sure! Got a pen?” He asked sitting up.

“Oh right I’m sorry!” She scrambled through her side bag for a pen. Once she found one, she basically threw it at him.

You were a bit shocked. Weren’t you two supposed to be on a date? You were so lost.

“There you go! Give me a text in a little bit!” Satoru winked at the girl, whose face was deep red with blush.

“Thank you!” She said as she took the piece of paper and ran back to her friends.

“Let’s get going now shall we?” Satoru said, a bit eager to leave.

“Oh uh ok-“ you said standing up and following Satoru.

All the girls gave you a weird look, kinda like a we got your man kind of look.

You looked up at Satoru once you two were far enough from those girls, “so what was up-“

Satoru interrupted you, “I gave them Yaga’s number,” he said confidently.

Your jaw dropped, “No you didn’t! He’s gonna kill you!” You began laughing, almost needing to stop.

“What you think I’m gonna throw my amazing date under the bus like that? Never in a million years!” He laughed softly.

You two continued walking, wiping the tears from your eyes from how hard you were laughing. You had finally calmed down from your fit of laughter, your stomach still hurting.

“I’m thinking this weekend we go to a restaurant and tell them it’s your birthday for some free ice cream,” Satoru thought out loud.

“Is this your attempt at asking me for a second date?” You raised and eyebrow up at him.

“Maybe,” he responded with a smile.

You giggled, taking his arm into yours, “sure, we’ll go scam some people out of their ice cream,” you blushed lightly.

“Score!” He laughed, a small amount of blush forming on his cheeks.

Guess he was right.

He didn’t have to be pretty and smart to get a partner.

[obsessedwrhys]

ᶻ 𝗓 𐰁 .ᐟ Bi-Han with a Sun Goddess!Reader

ᯓ★ fluff, angst at the end, reader is fem!!

Boy oh boy were you two an unexpected match. One was full of grace while the other's full of temper.

Though, despite your differences, your relationship was surprisingly well.

How he fell for you was a story itself, it all started when you had offered to help Liu Kang and his friends to fight against Shang Tsung. When you were given a place to stay at the Lin Kuei's headquarters, that's how you met the man.

He was the first to introduce himself but from his tone you could tell he was forced to offer the hospitality towards you.

During the wait for Liu Kang's orders, you explored the place and had stumble upon Bi-Han when he was training his men. You were bored so you decided to join.

From there was how you slowly started to know him.

Starting by having a friendly duel to having brunch at the garden. He was surprisingly not as scary as he appears to be.

It was probably your patience and elegance that made him fall hard for you.

He can't explain it but there was this aura about you that just seemed to be drawing him in.

So when he confessed to you after he had invited you over for a formal dinner. That was when things took a huge turn.

When everyone found out you two were together, it blew nearly everyone's mind, especially Johnny's. Like how did that happen?

"What do you even see in him?"

"He makes me laugh"

P.S, Bi-Han hates how you and Johnny are very buddy with each other.

There was this one time Johnny had bought you an attire from his earth and had intended to bring you as a plus one to his movie premiere but obviously Bi-Han was quick to snatch you away.

Just imagine him dragging you gently by the waist while looking over his shoulder to glare at Johnny. You on the other hand was unaware of his jealousy since you were confused why he needed your help on watering the pond (?)

Honestly Bi-Han wouldn't be too showy with affection. Sure he loves you, but he also loves his image. Though if you were ever to initiate PDA, he'd be fine with small things like kisses and hugs. Just don't embarrass him in front of his men. He won't be ever live it down.

Did I mention how soft he gets behind closed doors?

Once it's just you two he can finally drop his cold demeanor.

100% canon he's a small spoon type of guy.

Like just run your hands through his loose hair and massage his scalp. HE.WILL.MELT!!!

He'd definitely talk in a whisper tone to you when you guys are cuddling. Not to mention he always have this soft smile on his face.

"I missed you the entire day..."

"Hm... Your hair looks cute when it's messy..."

"Stop... don't look at me like that... quit pouting..."

He also enjoys taking baths together. Nothing extreme of course. He just enjoys the feel of your skin 'cause it helps him to relax.

He calls you sunshine. I wonder why 🤔

Jokes aside, he also calls you other cliché things like baby and love.

Another funny thing, he enjoys it when you choose to mess with him. He doesn't get mad but instead finds your attempts intriguing.

An example of a scenario was when you had decided to put makeup on him. Your excuse being that you wanted to try a new type of style but he knew those were just white lies.

Once you were done, you just couldn't control your laughter. He doesn't even crack a smile but just stares at you with a blank expression before turning to see his reflection on the mirror.

Did you just put clown makeup on him? He sighs but secretly inside, he finds your laughter quite contagious. It takes all his strength not to smile.

"You are an adult yet you behave like a child"

"PAAHAHAHA I AM—NOT— NOT A CHILD!!" You'd struggle to say through your laughter as he turns to stare at you once again with a unimpressed look, the clown makeup still on him making it even more funny to you.

OKAY NOW HEAR ME OUT. He definitely gives you compliments buuuut since he's too embarrassed to just say it outright, he likes to say it in his native language. He's just more comfortable in his mother tongue.

Just imagine him caressing your cheek as he admires you. Nothing but love in his gaze. It was like you were the single most beautiful thing in this world to him.

"你到底知道你有多可愛嗎? (Do you even understand/know how cute you are?)" He'd say in a breathy tone as though your beauty took his breath away.

Now to your powers, when he first saw you in action, it left him astonished. A sun goddess? Just when he thought he had seen it all... you never cease to surprise him.

That's why it comes naturally that he would challenge you in a friendly battle which you accepted without hesitation.

It was definitely a massive fight, even some of his men were rounding around or peeking from nearby to get a glimpse of the fight.

You were fast yet so smart with your moves. He had to admit that it had him captivated. Sadly the fight ended in a tie since Scorpion had to come in to stop it when things were beginning to get out of hand.

Without realising, you guys had accidentally damage some of the furniture and such. Ever since then, Bi-Han has been looking forward to competing against you again.

After that you were also considered his equal which is already an achievement itself.

Rarely anyone gets that high of a praise.

When in a relationship, his curiosity would peak and he would ask questions about your powers and your backstory.

While telling him your family reputation and the origin of where you got your abilities, he would be listening closely.

You taught yourself how to control and enhance your skills? He likes you even more.

You have daddy issues? Say less.

Whatever it is, he'll just listen to you with his brows slightly raised as you have his complete interest.

Since you're the only one he feels like he can share his problems to, he would definitely share his frustration concerning his father's beliefs about the Lin Kuei.

You would try to help him through it but even with your endless love and care. His betrayal would be inevitable.

When you learned of his betrayal through his brothers, it left you completely shattered.

How could he do this?

Did he not even consider the harm he could do when he did that?

Did you never cross his mind?

All of these thoughts haunted you.

And so did his consequences did to him.

His thirst for power and control consumed him to the fact that he had failed to realise he had lost you in the process.

Countless nights of staring at the wall as he loses sleep...

Until one day he decided to go and set out to find you. When he did, he hid himself in the shadows while watching you pack your stuff.

You were leaving to Japan with his brothers.

The dark circles around your eyes and the glow you always had on you was gone.

His actions had entirely ruined you...

Once he was sure it was just you and nobody else, he would step out of the bushes and choose to approach you. A dumb but desperate move.

The second your eyes settled on him. There was no warmth... but rage in your eyes.

Without a second thought you would initiate a fight against the man who was once your lover.

Due to your still aching heart, you would fight with tears in your eyes as your emotions got the better of you, something Bi-Han easily caught notice of.

After exchanging blows and countering them, Bi-Han would manage to hold you in his embrace which you struggled against but soon you would give in to the warmth of his body. The feeling you've longed for ever since he was gone.

"Please... don't leave..." He'd plea, afraid that he might never see you again.

"I never left... you did..." You'd say, then gently removing his arms around you which he let's you without resisting.

"You left me... like I was nothing to you..." You looked at him, staring at the way his face was unreadable but you could see the glimpse of hopeless in his eyes.

"I'm just glad this time I get to say goodbye" You'd then reach out to hold the side of his face... before turning to leave with your belongings.

He doesn't stop nor chases after you but rather just stands there and watch as you go.

The heartbreaking realisation that he was no longer the reason for you to stay.. but to run away.

[yelenasdiary]

Hello 👋

I saw your requests say open, but I know you're struggling with motivation to get content out so no worries if you cannot or don't want to fulfill this but I'm having a surgery soon so I'm requesting from some of my friends/fav writers hoping it helps me out in recovery.

Anyway sorry for the rambling lol, here's my idea. I was thinking like something with BuckyNat and R where Reader has to undergo surgery for something (maybe an old injury became too bad to deal with or maybe something happened on a mission that needs attention) and they're super nervous about it and hesitant to agree so Nat and Bucky sit down with them and just offer lots or love and support (even though they're both nervous too cuz that's their girl) so when Rs getting the surgery they're a bit of a mess until they know she's alright and then they help her settle into their room and help care for her as she starts to mend.

If you decide to write it I thank you lots in advance ☺️

Drabble || It's All Gonna Be Okay

Pairing: BuckyNat x Reader

Summary: When a mission goes wrong, you're told you need realignment osteotomy surgery, the idea of it makes you worried and full of nerves in which your partners help you overcome.

Tiny Angst, Fluff

Warnings: Medical talk, she/her pronouns used (I hope that's okay!!), This is not corrected or proof read. | 0.6K

Translations: detka (baby),

AC: I hope your op goes well!! I also hope this helps, sorry I made it a Drabble, I wanted to get this posted asap for you x

Bucky smiled softly at you, "what's on your mind doll?" he asked seeing your mind was a million miles away. Natasha sitting on the right side of your hospital bed, she looked up at the two of you.

"The thought of being put to sleep and some stranger playing around inside my body and touching my bones is freaking me out" you replied honestly. Bucky let out a soft chuckle, "doll, they are professionals" he reminded you.

"Yeah, they're not even thinking about how weird it is that they're touching somebodies bones" Nat pitched in. Sure, they had a point the thought of it was still uncomfortable. "Okay but what if something goes wrong?" you questioned. Nat placed her hand on top of yours, "detka, I promise you nothing is going to happen"

"That's right doll, nothing is going happen to my darling. You'll be in and out in no time and Nat and I will be waiting by your side" Bucky added. You looked over to him on your left side, "do you promise?" you asked.

"Have I ever broken a promise to you before?" he questioned with a soft smile. The support from the two of them did help ease some of your nerves and finally you agreed with your surgeon that you'd have the surgery on the condition that both Nat and Bucky were able to watch from the viewing room. At first your surgeon wasn't onboard with the idea but with a little sweet talking from Bucky and the two of them were sat in the view room watching the surgery unfold from above.

"She'll be okay" Natasha places her hand on Bucky's knee when she noticed the worrying look in his eyes. "I know but still, that's our girl down there, I can't help but worry" he replied. Nat rested her head on Bucky's right shoulder, "I know love, I'm worried too" she admitted.

They watched for what felt like forever until the operation was a success and you were returned to your room when both Nat and Bucky waited patiently for you to wake up, both of them holding your hand. When your eyes finally fluttered open, smiles filled the room. Bucky was relieved and Nat was just happy to see your beautiful eyes once more.

"How are you feeling detka?" Natasha asked, placing a kiss on your temple. "Tired" you replied, struggling to keep your eyes open, the last of the anaesthesia winning the battle making your partners lightly chuckle.

"I'll go get us some dinner, what do you want?" Nat asked Bucky knowing full well he wasn't going to leave your side for a second. "Burgers?" he replied, looking up at Nat as she placed a hand on his left shoulder, "you've got it soldier" Nat said, placing a kiss on his cheek.

----

A few weeks after your operation you started PT. Natasha made her it mission to make sure you had the best physiotherapist in the county, although you told Natasha it wasn't necessary but Bucky was on team Nat and you lost that battle.

Bucky basically waited on you hand and foot, he just wanted to make sure you were okay and in no pain. Night was one your favourite time of day because Natasha would somehow have dinner ready, by somehow you mean you were sure that Wanda cooked and Nat took the credit but you thought it was sweet she wanted to do something nice each night and let it slide.

After dinner, the three of you would snuggle up in bed, carefully of your knee of course but with the two people you love the most beside you, the pain from your knee was the least of your worries.

[theosconfessions]

Love is Embarrassing

The Final Choice- For Real

i know ive been saying this since the dawn of time but you guys. i appreciate every single one of you who have participated in scars bachelorette challenge. we've been on this since december and its so crazy to me that its over... or should i say the bc is over. the story is not. she bonded so much with all of them and she had such high romance bars with all of them by the end.but eugene won ..not only because he got her pregnant [which lmao i knew it was coming .she was def gonna get pregnant by someone.. its not a kline bc without that happening] but because he never stopping showing up for our girl. shed get home from dates and eugene was hanging out waiting to play some games with her. including the lame llama one she loves. they just have a really special connection. elia- they bonded from the jump i mean not only sexually but he was the only contestant to call her out on her bullshit. which i loved.and its what the klines need more of @fl0ptrait thank you for creating such a doll for scar to meet and fuck haha! he was always right there fighting for her xena- was a fucking CHARMER. like that girl knew how to speak to scar to make her swoon and swoon easy. i think she had the quickest romance jump from the beginning of this challenge. i think while her interest may have wained in the end of the challenge bc lets face it scar threw some curveballs she really really did want to romance the shit out of scar .. and i was here for it @bubblepopsims luxor- what can i say this guy surprised me on the first solo one on one date. partly bc scar freaked him out to begin with haha! but also because of how suave he can be. like he was calm through the whole thing but making his intentions known once he got to know her. HOWEVER this isnt the last time we're seeing luxor and he will be in the stephens continued thank you to the lovely @simvanie eugene- THIS BOY... mannnn he never gave up on her and lets face it if the baby were elias hed be like i mean thats okay. still pick me though to be your husband haha! theyre not married YET they will be but these two just mesh.and i think they always have . scar was just too blind to see if way back then.and it too this challenge to make it known to her what a catch eugene was @duusheen many cute babes to come bonus shots under the cut of their reactions.. i dont know when my next bc will be or if i will do one but man you guys made this such a great experience. the stephens continued will be picking back up as well as finnies globetrotter and his part of the stephens soon <3

[uriekukistan]

aita for abducting my nephew’s boyfriend and using his body as a vessel? 

i (1000+M) was minding my own business as a set of 20 cursed preserved fingers when some brat (15M) ate one of my fingers to save his friend (15M). i tried to make him my vessel, but he resisted, and ended up being more of a cage than anything. i also realized later that he was also my nephew, but i’ll get to that in a bit. 

i was getting pretty bored in there, since he wouldn’t let me out to massacre local populations, even after eating another one of my fingers, but then i got my opportunity. he asked me for help defeating a powerful curse, so i took advantage of his pathetic state to get out and wreak havoc in the world. i ripped his heart out (literally) for good measure so he couldn’t come back without dying, but that idiot came back anyway and died.

while i was wreaking havoc though, i found out that his little friend had a really cool jujutsu technique! i thought he would be an interesting opponent, but he wasn’t really using it as well as i thought he would :/ i thought it was kinda unfair that he got to have such a cool technique when i could use it better and especially since i’m stuck in this brat’s body who has no technique, so i cooked up a plan to get my hands on it and brought the brat back to life.

some time later, i got the opportunity to massacre civilians again. well, technically, i was exorcising a disaster grade curse i guess. massacring civilians was just an added bonus. well, the brat didn’t take that very well and was saying all this shit about wanting to die, which i thought was kinda ungrateful, since i saved both his life and the life of his boyfriend. granted, i had ulterior motives for both, but still! 

anyway, he somehow figured out that i had a plan for his boyfriend, and he started running away with his half brother (150M). i was especially worried that i lost my chance when this guy (17M) briefly killed my nephew, but he brought him back to life. 

one thing i’ve never understood is love, so i was a bit confused, but relieved, when my nephew’s boyfriend found him and managed to persuade him to help him out with some game my frenemy (1000+X) set up. some super nauseating bullshit about saving him and not being selfish blah blah blah.

i bet a lot of you are wondering how this 15 year old brat is my nephew when i’m 1000 years old, so since i brought up my frenemy, i should just tell you they’re a bit of a weirdo. basically, when i was in the womb, i consumed my twin to survive, but their soul still existed in the universe. somehow, my frenemy got their hands on his soul, and when he was reincarnated a thousand years later, he took over the body of his wife and had a son with him. that’s my nephew. i think they did it just to spite me, but they also helped me cheat death by becoming a curse, so i can’t complain too much.

back to the main point, i finally got my hands on my nephew’s boyfriend and made him my new vessel. i was right! his technique was sick! and the look on that brat’s face was priceless!

it took me a while to break my nephew’s boyfriend down enough to use his body and technique effectively, but it was kind of entertaining to watch, and now i can move freely! the only problem is now i have all these sorcerers swarming around me like flies trying to defeat me, and it’s getting a bit frustrating, if not tiring. every time i think i take one out, another one shows up, or they just stand back up. 

they all seem seem pretty mad at me. i’m not really sure why. first, it’s the right of the strong to prey on the weak. second, it’s not my fault that my nephew wouldn’t just be a good vessel and let me massacre civilians, and it’s also not my fault that his boyfriend had a cool technique. i think i did what anyone would do in this situation. aita?

[vodika-vibes]

Hey congrats on 650+ followers could I please request a romance regencycinderella type au, where Rex is a prince and has to marry a person of "high standing" but he ends up meeting and falling in love with the reader, who is the servant of the spoiled bratty princess he's supposed to be marrying.

Sorry if this is too much detail.

You Will Be Okay

Summary: You have been the handmaid of Princess Harmony for the majority of your life, your responsibilities include ensuring her clothes are neat, styling her hair, and helping her bathe. It’s only natural that you would join her when she travels to Prince Rex’s palace when it’s time to meet him. The last thing you expect is to catch the eye of the Prince himself.

Pairing: Captain Rex x F!Reader

Word Count: 2452

Warnings: Mentions of abuse, but it's not shown

Prompt: Regency AU

Tagging: @trixie2023 @n0vqni @imabeautifulbutterfly

A/N: Once again, this took me a while to get down. And it feels slightly less Cinderella to me, but I hope you like it anyway! Thanks for your request!

It has been three weeks since Princess Harmony, the Princess you serve, arrived at Jaig Palace, home to her betrothed, Prince Rex. Which means, it has been three weeks since you arrived at Jaig Palace.

In the three weeks since you’ve been here, Princess Harmony has thrown several massive temper tantrums, has destroyed five dresses (two of which had been passed down from the Queen Mother), and has verbally abused the staff of Jaig Palace so severely that they refuse to serve her.

At this point, you would sell your right arm, left leg, and your little brother’s body for a break.

But, Princess Harmony seems to be in a good mood today.

A better mood than she’s been in since you left the Cin Palace that is her home. 

You put the final touches on her intricate up-do, pinning some peace lilies into her golden locks, before you step away and bow, “All done, your highness.”

Princess Harmony tilts her head from one side to the other, and then she nods once. “This is adequate. I like the way you have the peace lilies framing my face. Wherever did you manage to find Peace Lilies here?”

“Her Majesty sent some with your luggage, your highness.” you reply.

“Of course she did.” There’s something bitter in Princess Harmony’s voice.

“Is all well, your highness?”

“I’m fine.” She bites out as she waves her hand, “Tell me, Handmaid-” You cringe, in the nearly twenty years you’ve been serving her, she still hasn’t learned your name, “what is on my schedule for the day?”

You blink at the princess, and then turn to pick up the itinerary that had been delivered the night before, “It appears that you have a free day today, your highness. At least, until this evening, when you are scheduled to give a speech.”

“Oh, yes. That.” She stands suddenly and glides away from the vanity, “You are dismissed. I have no need for you today.”

“As you command, your highness.”

“Send in my double when you leave.”

You curtsey deeply, and sweep out of the room before she can change her mind.

Princess Harmony was given a rather large set of apartments when she arrived here three weeks ago. There’s her own room and private bathroom, and then there are two more rooms. A large room for the Princess’ body double, and then a much smaller room that you call your own.

Fiore, Princess Harmony’s double, is sitting in the sitting room with a book in her hand. She is nearly identical to the princess, though her eyes are several shades darker than the Princess’.

“Princess Harmony is asking to see you, Fiore.” You murmur as you walk over to the older woman, and adjust one of the peace lilies in her hair to make sure it’s identical to the Princess’ hair.

“Asking, or demanding?” Fiore asks.

Fiore is, technically, Princess Harmony’s older sister. The King had an affair, resulting in the birth of Fiore, and you know that the older woman resents her spoiled half-sister. She was not a willing body double, it’s something that Fiore has confided in you when she was assigned her position.

“Is it not the same thing?” You ask with a gentle curl of your lips.

Fiore scoffs and smoothly gets to her feet, “Then I had best see what her royal brattiness wants. You should take the day, though.” She adds with a fond smile in your direction, “You’ve been going non-stop since we arrived.”

Personally, you’re of the opinion that Fiore would be a better Queen than Harmony, but it’s not as if anyone cares about your opinion. You offer her a small smile, before you sweep out of the suite of rooms.

Your first free-day in weeks.

You allow your feet to lead you through the, now familiar, halls. Pausing every now and then to speak with some of the guards and other servants. They like you well enough, though you’d have to be blind to not see the pitying looks that they shoot you.

Your feet lead you to the gardens. As you understand it, the Gardens had been the late Queen’s project, and you can tell by looking at the beautiful flower beds, and massive trees, that it had been a labor of love. 

A small smile graces your lips as you walk through the gardens, pausing every now and then to admire some of the plants that you’ve never seen before.

Cin Palace is located far, far to the north. The only plants that grow naturally are coniferous trees, and small shrubs. And the greenhouses back home are dedicated to fruits and vegetables, not flowers.

You allow yourself to wander through the flowers, and vanish into the thicket of trees. The leaves are a wide array of colors, from deep purple, to rich green, to vibrant red. It’s like walking through a kaleidoscope.

You can’t help but think, if this is what it’s like living here, then moving wouldn’t be so bad. Even if it does mean that you’re stuck serving Princess Harmony for the rest of your life.

And then, suddenly, you realize that you’re not alone.

“Oh,” You stop mid-step and flush before curtseying deeply as you avert your eyes from the blonde prince standing in front of you, “Your Highness, my apologies.”

He looks just as surprised to see you as you are to see him, “Ah, there’s no need for that. Just Rex is fine.” He says awkwardly, stepping closer to you and lightly touching your elbow to bring you back to your feet. “You are…Princess Harmony’s handmaiden, aren’t you?”

You straighten and fold your hands, “I am, yes.”

A smile, small and warm, crosses his face and you feel warmth in your chest. He really is very handsome, you weren’t expecting him to be kind too, “I thought I recognized you from your arrival. Though, I haven’t seen you since-?”

“Princess Harmony prefers that I stay out of sight,” You reply honestly, “Plus…” You hesitate and then shake your head, “It’s not important.”

“Please. I’d like to hear what you have to say.”

You duck your head, “Princess Harmony has a…difficult…personality at times.” You finally say, very diplomatically, “The servants that were assigned to her suites have refused to serve her due to how she treated them. So I have been very busy since arriving.”

“I have heard rumors from my staff,” Rex admits, “I thought they were just rumors. Still, I am glad that you managed to come and see the gardens. What do you think?”

“They’re beautiful,” You reply with a bright smile, “I have never seen so many different flowers and plants.”

He answers your smile with one of his own, “Would you like a tour?”

“Truly? You’re not too busy?”

“Today is my free day,” Rex replies, “And I’m happy to show off my mother’s garden.” He moves to the side and motions for you to come stand next to him, “This way, the garden is much larger than people generally see.”

His hand settles, warm and comforting, on your lower back as you fall into step next to him. Rex leads you deeper into the garden, telling you stories of his mother, and of the various plants that she chose to fill her garden.

It’s the start of a, slightly surprising, friendship.

It has been three weeks since the day that  you first met Prince Rex, and has been six weeks since your arrival at Jaig Palace. And, in your opinion, things are going well.

Well. Wellish.

Princess Harmony’s mood plummeted, and no amount of her favorite snacks, books, or songs could bring her back into a more tolerable mood.

She’s since turned her foul temper on you, and on Fiore. 

The first time she struck you indicated a change in your relationship with your princess. And a change in the relationship between Fiore and Harmony.

Fiore refused to allow you to be alone with Harmony, regardless of how Harmony ranted and raved and threatened her. In truth, you’re grateful for the older woman, as her presence made it so that Harmony couldn’t strike you again, no matter how much she might want to.

It also means that you have a lot more free time than you did when you first arrived.

Of course, free time is relative, as you spend the majority of the time trying to prepare for the wedding between Princess Harmony and Prince Rex.

Though, at this point, you’re pretty sure that you’ve spent more time with the groom-to-be than Princess Harmony. In fact, you can’t remember them having a single conversation at all.

And you’re concerned.

Rex is a friend, at least, you think he is. And you’re not overly eager to leave him to Harmony’s wild outbursts. 

“May I ask a personal question?” You ask, late one evening as you watch the fireflies dance around you and Rex. Harmony’s nightly temper tantrum evolved into her throwing a vase at you and Fiore, and so you were encouraged to leave the suite for a couple of hours.

Which led you here, sitting on a blanket, deep in the garden, with Rex sitting across from you.

He’s dressed down, in a loose tunic with the laces untied at his neck, baring more of his chest to you than he’s ever done before, and his trousers are loose and stained with grass. 

He looks amazing. And you have to force yourself not to stare at him, it’s not your place. It’s a shame that your friendship with him has turned into you having a crush on him. 

Rex laughs, “You don’t have to ask permission, cyar’ika.” His grin is teasing, and you make a face at him. He still won’t tell you what that nickname means, though you suppose it doesn’t matter in the grand scheme of things.

“...do you want to get married?” You ask slowly, carefully.

He pauses from where he was peeling an orange, and he slowly sets it down on the blanket, “In truth? No. Not to Harmony at least. She’s…incredibly unlikeable.”

“Ah.” You absently smooth your skirt, “I suppose it doesn’t really matter what you want, though. Does it?”

Rex gazes at you for a long moment, “I have to get married. The law is very clear on this.” He pauses, “Of course, the law doesn’t specify who, exactly, I have to marry.”

“I don’t follow.”

“It doesn’t say that I have to marry a princess.” He clarifies, “Just that I have to be wed before I turn 25.”

“I see.” You murmur.

Rex doesn’t say anything for a long moment and then he sighs. You turn your gaze towards his face, and start when he shifts so that he’s sitting close enough that your knees are touching. He reaches out, and for a moment, you think he’s going to press his hands against your face, but he seems to hesitate before reaching down and taking your hands in his. 

“Rex?”

He smiles at you, “I didn’t want to ask, but it’s hard to not notice that you flinch away from Harmony. And it’s even harder to ignore how Fiore seems to hover over your shoulder like you’re her charge. Does Harmony hit you, cyar’ika?”

You nervously lick your lips, “It…only happened one time. And it was my fault, really. I should have known better than-”

“No.” Rex squeezes your hand and his voice is stern enough that your words die on your tongue, “There is no excuse for her hitting you. At all.”

You stare at him, stunned. “Well, yes. Of course.” You offer sheepishly, “But…I’m still her handmaiden and…and…” You trail off, and then squeeze your eyes shut, “You shouldn’t marry her.”

“And what happens then?” Rex asks, his voice gentle.

“We go home, back to Cin Palace.” You say, “And…and nothing changes.”

He’s quiet for a moment, and then releases one of your hands. You start when his warm hand presses against your cheek, “If nothing changes for you, then that means you’ll be stuck with an abusive employer.”

“Fiore won’t let her hurt me.” You reply as you open your eyes again. Rex seems closer somehow.

“What if I had a different idea?” He offers, “A better offer. For you and Fiore.”

“I don’t-?”

“Marry me.”

Whatever you expected him to say, it wasn’t that. You blink at him, your jaw dropped, as your train of thought not only screeches to a halt, but also completely derails. “What.”

Not the most eloquent of ways to ask for clarification, but he doesn’t seem offended. In fact, he seems amused.

“Marry me. Become my Queen.”

“But…but I’m a servant-!”

“I don’t care.”

“You should definitely marry a princess-”

“I want to marry someone I love, and I love you.”

You gape at him, dumbly for a moment, “But. You. That’s…”

“Take your time,” Rex teases. He seems confident and relaxed, as though he hadn’t just dropped a bombshell on you. 

“You love me?” You ask, your voice tiny.

“Is that so surprising?”

“You hardly know me-”

“I know you’re allergic to grapes, I know you really like the color blue, but your favorite color is hunter green. I know you like dancing, though you’re too embarrassed to actually dance in front of people. I know you’ve always wanted a garden of your own, but have never been permitted one.” He leans in closer, and presses his forehead against yours, “I know you’re afraid of the dark, but you still enjoy watching the stars.”

“I never told you any of that.” You whisper.

“You didn’t have to,” He releases your hand and brings his hand up so that he’s properly cupping your face, “I know you, cyar’ika. I want to marry you. Become my Queen. And I’ll make sure you’ll never be unhappy again.”

“...but-”

“Fiore will be offered a position as your bodyguard if you agree.” Rex promises, “You’ll both be free from Harmony.” He strokes your cheek lightly, “And, even if you don’t want to marry me, you’ll both be offered positions on my staff. You will be free of her one way or another.”

You exhale slowly, “Okay.” You whisper.

He blinks at you, “Okay?”

“Okay, I’ll marry you.”

And then you squeak when his lips press against yours in a deep and passionate kiss. It takes you a moment, but you end up wrapping your arms around his neck and kissing him back just as enthusiastically. 

You feel him grin into the kiss, and you can’t help but melt into him.

This might not be what you expected for your life, but you’re not going to complain. After all, this is much, much better.

[yuesya]

The darkened screen lights up with a new incoming message.

Sunday immediately lunges for his cell phone, ignoring the scattered sheets of promptly-abandoned paperwork that go flying everywhere as they are knocked over in his haste.

Robin: I found her! Thank you for your help in narrowing down the facilities, brother.

An exhale of relief escapes his lips, and Sunday finds himself slumping down slightly in his seat. The heavy, constricting feeling on his chest finally lightens at the knowledge that his youngest little sister is safe.

Even though he knows that Lyra can take care of herself when it comes to physical confrontations, that does not mean Sunday is happy when his sister –either one of his beloved little sisters– is in danger. Especially not when she does so deliberately.

It also does not help that Lyra knowingly allowed herself to be kidnapped by slavers, because it reminds him of a certain time in their childhood.

A bloodstained warehouse. Dismembered corpses littering the ground. Lyra, blank-eyed and unaffected, standing in the center of it all –and oh, how Sunday’s heart ached for his dear little sister. How fiercely glad he’d been, to find her still alive and well amid the carnage.

Sunday closes his eyes for a brief moment to compose himself, then responds to Robin’s message.

I’m glad I was able to help, he tells his sweet sister. Is everything alright over there?

He sets his phone down to the side of his desk, and goes about the room regathering his paperwork. Given the tone of Robin’s words, the situation was most likely under control. And… all the way in Penacony whilst his sisters were elsewhere among the stars, there was only so much that Sunday could do.

Not for the first time, a sudden jittery, uneasy sensation flutters in his chest. Separation anxiety, was what others had jokingly named this feeling when Sunday described it to them, but–

His phone screen lights up again. Sunday hurries back to his desk, setting down the papers and picking up his pen on autopilot even as his eyes are drawn to his phone.

Robin: All good! Lyra finished things by the time I got here.

Robin: There’s actually very little collateral damage this time, too.

Robin: She also found all of the missing children!

Robin: Everyone is accounted for. [Smiley face]

Robin: [New Attachment: Image file]

Sunday pauses.

… The picture that Robin sent him is clearly one that she’d just taken on her phone. In the frame, there are several children curled up against each other in a small pile, some of whom are asleep, while others hold markers in their hands with mischievous expressions. But more importantly, beside the children–

Lyra.

Soft, silvery hair, and feathery wings. Lyra’s appearance is not elegant or enchanting the way Robin’s is, but no one –not even the other Halovians who incessantly wagged those tongues that they did not deserve to keep– would deny that she was lovely in her own right. His little sister’s beauty is one that’s precious and darling, which has its own charm.

There is a blond-haired young man leaning quite closely over Lyra’s shoulder, his arm reaching over her body to point at something that she’s holding.

Sunday’s eyes narrow at the ostentatious peacock–

Who is he, he means to type to Robin. But as he lifts his hand, Sunday suddenly realizes that he’s dripping ink on the table.

Slowly, he unfurls his fingers. Fingers that he does not recall tightening into a fist in the first place.

Pieces of a broken pen fall one by one onto the polished desk with a clattering sound, ink seeping deep into the wooden grains as dark droplets continue to dribble down from Sunday’s hand.

[videolaa]

Hoodie

Idol!Chanbin x Idol!Femreader

Changbin didn't understand why his feet brought him to the venue with some of his friends. He didn't understand why no one stopped him from buying a ticket to see you live. Was it because they were getting tired of seeing you through his phone screen, jolting when some fans screamed louder than others in videos? Could it be that they thought it was best for him to see you one last time, even if you wouldn't have one more conversation? Whatever the reason here, he was standing in the sea of people who came for you.

"Are you doing okay?" Han asked, still slightly nervous, as if coming wasn't the smartest option. Changbin nodded his head, "Yeah. Thanks for coming with me, by the way." Han and Minho stood next to him, "It's no problem," Minho mumbled before focusing back towards the stage.

Changbin was lying. He wasn't fine. Changbin missed you. Even after all these months that went by, his love for you hadn't changed. But he was better at hiding them than you. Dispatch was quick on pointing out your lack of appearance at an award show. Your new photos for your comeback seemed to be a mix of sadness with a glint of happiness. He even caught you getting a teary-eyed in a teaser picture.

While in reality, at night after you'd finished getting ready for bed, having trouble sleeping from a long day of overthinking or on certain nights when the anxiety mixed tears would be too much, you'd open your closet and pull your ex-boyfriend's hoodie. Off the hanger and over your head.

You found it after you cleared Changbin's clothes from your room, and you didn't have the heart to text him you found it. If he couldn't be with you anymore, to have his hugs, his love and comfort, having this would be good enough for you to sleep in.

Now, seeing you on a screen and in person after months of nothing, your smile was almost forced with little shine in your eyes. Yet you still performed beautifully, Minho was shocked at how you never missed a beat, "She's putting her all..." Minho began leaning closer to Han, "I know. We'll talk later."

"Did we have fun tonight?" you shouted through your mic as you walked from one end of the stage to the other, earning well-deserved screams of joy. Changbin clapped and cheered with the rest of the fans. His friends who went with felt an unexpected ache in their hearts. Seeing him with a heart still full of love while you forced a smile, twisting, twirling, while trying to laugh away the pain.

You still loved each other.

But somewhere along your twirls, you stopped, taking a quick double take. After seeing your smile lower a bit, he pulled his face mask back up, hoping you'd assume you were just seeing things. Only you knew it was him.

Changbin, Minho, and Han; they all showed up. You'd recognize them a mile away, and for the first time in months, you felt you could finally give a genuine reaction to everyone. "Sorry about that, everyone! I saw some unexpected old friends here. Lets give them a quick cheer for coming out tonight!" You call out in the microphone before dropping it so you could join in for a moment.

Even though you chose to look in other directions at their cheers, catching glances at the three was slightly humorous. From red ears, looking down with rhythmic shoulders bouncing up and down out of laughter, and one attempting to play along with the crowd. Part of you felt bad until you turned your attention back to the audience, "Okay enough, embarrassing them...for now. Now for the last song of the night. What you've all been waiting for... here's my newest song."

The boys looked up as the lights dimmed out of curiosity, only to shoot back down as the beat started, along with a different presence from the smiling, cheering, laughing girl they've seen all night. This girl was anxious yet determined. Her sudden change kept the crowd reeling.

You'd probably think I was psychotic (if you knew)

What I still got in my closet (sad but true)

I slip it on over my shoulders

Something I'll never get over

It makes me feel a little bit closer to you

Even though this was their first time hearing this. The three felt something stirring inside, a feeling that had stuck with them since they entered - yet the song hardly started. As if they were there for it's creation.

I can't keep your love

I can't keep your kiss

Gave you everything, and all I got was this

It was a small build-up, but just enough to cause your ex-boyfriend's jaw to hang open ajar. This was the truth. The truth you were so desperately trying to get out for the world to hear. The truth that tore you apart, together and alone. The truth everyone deserved to know, not the lie that was created for the internet.

And it did with just one post, one that had you forcibly packing.

I'm still rocking your hoodie

And chewing on the strings

It makes me think about you

So I wear it when I sleep

I kept the broken zipper

And cigarette burns

Still rocking your hoodie

Baby, even though it hurts

Still rocking your...

He remembered that day crystal clear.

The weather was colder than the news called for, and it had you shivering. Changbin didn't know it back then, but pulling his hoodie off for you to wear had been caught on tape. You giggled, joking it was already warmed up just for you. If either of you had known, he wouldn't have slung an arm around your shoulders, while an arm tried to fit around his waist. Anyone who passed could tell they were looking at a couple in love. Sadly, the media and work caused a public announcement; your breakup.

You grabbed your chest almost as if you were trying to hold your heart together, still pushing forward with unexpected confidence.

I used to put my hand in your pockets (holding on)

The smell of your cologne is still on it (but you're still gone)

I slip it on over my shoulders

Someone I'll never get over

It makes me feel a little bit closer to you

So you did still have it. You didn't even seem sorry, it caused a small smile out of him. Changbin tapped away a forming tear. Ever since that day, he would question himself, "Did you still love him?" "Did you hate him?" would fly through his head? But hearing you say that you still love him was the answering he was hoping for. Even if in the moment you were upset with him.

Minho gritted his teeth in anger. The cat dad internally cursed profanities at any form of platform or anyone who had broken both your hearts. Han had a lump forming in his throat, seeing, and knowing both of his friends were shattered, yet still going around smiling for the world to see. He felt like he could cry.

Changbin bit the bottom of his lip, trying to keep his vision clear to see you, whose eyes were currently fighting away tears. He shook his head, wanting to scream, "I never wanted to go anywhere!". But why would you keep such a cursed shirt? What was going on while he was gone? Yet he kept listening, even if it was killing him or anyone relating to your song.

I can't keep your love

I can't keep your kiss

Gave you everything and all I got was this

You gripped harder to the microphone. Deep down, you knew this song would reach him somehow. Only it never crossed your mind he would be there to see you performing the song for the first time. A jelly like feeling was starting in your legs. "Who cares?". You thought, if they give way, it'll just make the performance look better. Videos already existed of you crying, along with your passion for falling into your performances. Figuratively and literally. No one would question anything.

I'm still rocking your hoodie

And chewing on the strings

It makes me think about you

So I wear it when I sleep

I kept the broken zipper

And cigarette burns

Still rocking your hoodie

Baby, even though it hurts

"Binnie, sorry if this is too forward, but what are your thoughts of leaving some of your clothes here?" Your voice rang inside of his head, eyes lighting up "Yeah I'd love to." While you, on the other hand, you were hearing,"One day I want to - no, I hope I can scream it from the top of my lungs that I love you!" rang through yours. You hoped that "one day" would come. Until you got told, you couldn't because of a stupid company policy. That was it the end. Changbin didn't fight back, only a muffled "I'm sorry..." as he walked past you.

Still rocking your hoodie

And chewing on the strings

It makes me think about you

So I wear it when I sleep

I kept the broken zipper

And cigarette burns

Still rocking your hoodie

Baby, even though it hurts

Still rocking your...

And that's when your legs gave way, yet gracefully, digging deeper at your own thoughts of packing up boxes of his things. Remembering the mindless packing of boxes, remembering a couple members would take Changbin's things away. Piling other things in bags because you'd run out of moving boxes. Unsure if he'd show up with the other members, you stacked everything outside of your apartment door.

Unintentionally, his pink hoodie laid comfortably on the back of a kitchen chair, letting it air dry from the wash. Quickly running over to see how dry it was before rushing the barely damp shirt out to the boxes only to find them gone, only a now spare key left in an envelope at on the doormat.

Without caring for a moment if fans saw who were in the stands, your head turned to Han, Minho, and Changbin's side, eyes only moving to look at him. Sadness, anger, passion, all were swirling in your eyes.

If you want it back

If you want it back

I'm here waiting

Come take it back

Come take it back

If you want it back

If you want it back

I'm here waiting

Come take it back

Come take it back

"Please, one last hello, one last goodbye. Yes, this is about you - for you - is it reaching you?" is all you silently pass along. "I don't want it, keep it!" Changbin mumbled. If it was the only way he'd see you again, he'd do it. He would take it. Only to find a way to bring it back to you again.

After all, you admitted an old hoodie that caused you to break up was something that brought you comfort now - even if it did bring you pain. If he had it now, all it would do was hurt him more than he could imagine, more than this. Simple threads were holding you both together.

I'm still rocking your hoodie

And chewing on the strings

It makes me think about you

So I wear it when I sleep

I kept the broken zipper

And cigarette burns

Still rocking your hoodie

Baby, even though it hurts

There was his laugh again, the same contagious sound that could bring a smile to anyones face. "I love you," an echo could be heard. In desperation to ignore those sounds, you tugged out your earpiece, letting the crowd mute those memories. You let yourself drown just a little bit further into the song.

I'm still rocking your hoodie

And chewing on the strings

It makes me think about you

So I wear it when I sleep

I kept the broken zipper

And cigarette burns

Still rocking your hoodie

Baby, even though it hurts

Even seeing you were in pain, slowly failing to bat away, tears were hurting the three.

Changbin, who was sniffling, trying to hide his own tears. All the good memories you shared, from first dates to first times with everything in between. His biggest regret wasn't fighting for your relationship. "I'm sorry" was all he could muster out as he rushed past you, wondering what was going on. "Binnie? Binnie!" Changbin heard your reaction. Only for his shoulder to be shaken by Han, "What? What's wrong?". Before Changbin could answer, Han stepped aside with Minho as a stranger was standing next to them, "I'm Miss. (Y/l) manager. I think I met a couple of you during (Y/n)'s last tour. Would you three mind coming with me?". Unconsciously thinking, the three began following after your manager. "Are you sure we can't wait until the songs over?" Minho quickly stopped. Your manager shook her head, "I'm sorry, but this is her last song of the night. It'll still be able to be heard from backstage."

"Backstage?" the three looked at her in disbelief. Changbin turned his head towards the stage. You were still entertaining the crowd while spilling your soul out to them. "Yeah. Backstage...let's go".

Still rocking your hoodie

And chewing on the strings

It makes me think about you

So I wear it when I sleep

I kept the broken zipper

And cigarette burns

Still rocking your hoodie

Baby, even though it hurts

Still rocking your hoodie

Coming back to your senses a bit, your breathing hiccuped, leftover drops covering your face melted on your hand. Your fans were shouting your name, along with a few light sticks rocking back and forth. It made you want to cry harder, a few awes could be heard.

Wobbling to your feet, you smiled waving, "Thank you, everyone! Thank you for showing so much love to my new song, Hoodie! I hope it managed to reach you in some way. Thank you for coming out tonight. Please have a safe time getting home! Goodnight!". By the time your eyes made it to their seats, they had disappeared.

Staff opened the hidden door and ushered you directly to the long hallway, leading you straight to your changing room. A feeling of regret and embarrassment rose up as you noticed the pink shirt hanging against the door to the bathroom.

"Why did he even have to be here tonight or at?" you sighed, pulling out more comfortable clothes for after a post concert shower. Maybe if you hadn't made eye contact or wrote a breakup song, you wouldn't be feeling worse. It was wrote out of anger, pain, and heartbreak.

Even though the shower was brief, it was enough to ease the tension you'd caused yourself. As you changed into something more comfortable, you reached for the worn-out sweatshirt, only to feel a hand gently land on your shoulder, making you jump. Your eyes were bewildered, too stunned to say anything as you were met with Changbin.

"I remember looking everywhere for this after we..." Changbin pulled away and scratched the back of his neck. "Y-Yeah... I'm sorry I should have found a way to get it to you," you started before getting cut off. "No, it's just like you said. You're still rockin' my hoodie" he smiled. A bit of laughter came out, "I'll take that as a compliment."

After all these passing months, seeing one another felt so strange. Neither knew where the line started and ended or how far you could step. You had a million questions you wanted to ask him, yet you could only shake your head with one, "Why are you here, Changbin?".

"I wanted to see you. We wanted to see you," Changbin explained. "Okay, that's self-explanatory, but you know what I mean," you said a little more stern. Tired. Frustrated. Heartbreaking all over again, because he was standing in front of you. Changbin looked equally tired, his eyes slightly puffy. So desperately, you wanted to hug him and be happy to see him and let him tell you what was going on. He wanted to hug you, let you cry, and scream. Anything.

But from lack of sleep on both of you, high on emotions, both of you just blanked.

"I'm sorry"

"I miss you"

The sentences came out simultaneously, causing you to feel a ping in your heart, unsure of what to say. 'Hoodie' seemed clear enough of a message. What more could you say? Now, it was your turn to listen. No matter what had to be said.

"I should have tried harder - for us - I shouldn't have walked away." Changbin's voice was genuine and full of regret. "If I could go back to that day, I would have tried something, anything, because I still love you. I miss you too! I hurt you, and I am sorry. I -"

You put your hand on his bicep, making him stop, "Don't... We both knew it was possible or couldn't hide it forever," you tried to bring some comfort, which he returned with tired eyes. As you attempted to pull your hand away, Changbin gently took your hand, "I hurt you, but I still love you... and I-"

"No, no, Binnie, don't blame yourself on this. I'm hurt, yes. I'm hurt because I can't be with you, moreover you didn't fight for our relationship. You walked away. I still love you - I wouldn't have written that song about you if I didn't - I miss you too. We just broke a company rule, and well... now we're here."

Now you weren't fighting. You were just accepting, even if it hurt. Love hurts.

"One more time?" Changbin blurted out. It felt unreal, almost as if he'd forgotten the mess that came out from social media - which put you in this current situation - never happened. You couldn't tell if Changbin understood what he was actually asking.

Suddenly, another voice sighed into the conversation, "Don't say it like that - you'll scare her away." You both turned to face two familiar faces, "Hi (Y/n)," Han said, while Minho waved from the entrance. There was heat running to your cheeks, wondering how much they heard from the conversation, yet you still managed a wave. Han and Minho closed the door silently behind them. Thankfully, you doubted they heard much.

"I thought I asked you to wait outside!" Changbin whined. Minho crossed his arms, "Remember we're on a time limit? Plus, we'd like to see (Y/n) too." You chuckled at Minho's pouty confession, "I missed you guys, too." "We loved the show -" Han's tone attempted to break the tension. "I appreciate it, but what did you mean? You're here on a time limit." You shifted, looking between the three, "Did you guys sneak in?" Your voice raised only to hushed by Minho. "No! We wouldn't do that! Your manager said she'd let us in for a bit." Han quickly confessed.

"I...I have so many questions for her that will be handled a different day. She is right, though, I do have to get ready to leave... and I have a morning interview. " You took a deep breath as you switched between the group, "I really hope you guys did enjoy the show. I would love to hear your thoughts on Hoodie and the show, but we don't have that kind of time."

"We understand. But we did want to come support you, and we always will." Minho said. You were quiet and nodded your head. This made you think of when you were debating on buying a ticket to one of their shows from the upcoming tour, but you were waiting for concert dates to be released. "I will, too" you felt a lump in your throat.

Your eyes met Changbin. His eyes had more to say, "I'll think about it, Bin. I need to think about it, and you need to think about what you said with a clear conscience. Sound good?". Changbin nodded, "My number is still the same". You nodded, "Okay. I really have to go. Theres a place right down the block if you guys want to go there for dinner. Please eat something, and get home safely!" you shooed them out so you can grab your things.

"Bye (Y/n)!"

"Have a goodnight (Y/n)..."

"Great job tonight."

"Thanks, guys! I'll see you around." You shut the door behind them, leaning against it. As your adrenaline began to settle down, your fatigue began to rise.

Tomorrow. You'll think about everything starting tomorrow.

The following week flew by. Hoodie was hit, radio stations played it, and numbers were skyrocketing on streaming platforms. This just made it harder to not think about Changbin and the conversation at your concert. You were shocked the conversation even happened, or even seeing them in the green room.

But no, it was real, and you were still processing everything. It felt as if you were in a Damned if I do, Damned if I don't situation. You ran your nails through your hair, scared to say or do anything about it, Changbin wanted an answer. He deserved one.

Even if you had been avoiding your phone and computer like the plague, worried he'd call first and ask and you not having an answer made you nervous.

"(Y/n)? Are you the (Y/n)?" a girl walked up to you a giddy tone in her voice, sparkling eyes as she stood in front of you. Despite being in the music industry, meeting fans never got old, "Yeah, that's me." Her eyes still full of joy as her smile grew bigger, "I love your new song! I'm so jealous of everyone who got to see it!". You let out a chuckle, "Thank you! And don't worry, I'll make sure it'll be on my setlist for a while." The girl scrambled to find something to write on in her bag as a certain pink bunny pig plushie decorating her bags strap fell into view. "What a cute chain you got on there," you continued small talk. "Ah! Yeah, he's my favorite from Skzoo!" so enthusiastic as she pulled out a journal with a pen, extending it out to you.

"I like to journal in my free time, and I was wondering if you could sign a page? Anyone you want!" she said as you grabbed it with a smile. As usual, you asked for her name and flipped to a random empty page. Everything was going as smoothly as possible, until she said in a different tone, "I don't know who inspired 'Hoodie', but it's reached a lot of people like you wanted. You must have really cared about them for you to write a song for them," you looked at her a smirk on your face, "I'll always care about them."

"No! I'm not doubting that or anything, but do you think heartbreak can be reversed?" she nervously asked as you finished writing out a signature and note. You furrowed your eyebrows, "How do you mean?". The girl fiddled with her book, "Like when you can't be with someone because their family doesn't approve, but you still care about them and the relationship deeply and now that person is stuck trying to get a family approval but also having their partner be in their life as well. Sorta like going back, change the past for the future? Do you think a situation like this can be reversed or something?" she explained.

"Ah, I understand," more than you know. This girl wasn't far off from your own situation. That's when it clicked, "I hope this will make sense one day, just remember; If there's a will, there's a way and everything will find it's own way of working itself out."

She nodded her head, "I like that saying. I'm sorry for taking up so much of your time...and I hope you and that special person can also find a way to work itself out as well!"

Before being able to say goodbye, she was giving you advice in return, "Huh? Well, that was...unexpected."

Your entire ride back to your apartment, that multi-fan was giving you advice in return. Ironically, the shared advice between you two had your wheels turning. Maybe taking both words of wisdom, actually had done something to have you rushing up to your apartment to charge your phone while you got ready for bed. Again, it would be one of those nights where you were pulling his shirt on to calm you down a bit. Only this time, you were giving him your answer...

Dialing Changbin, you took a deep breath as you heard his voice after a couple rings, "Hello? (Y/n)?" he really was waiting...

Clearing your throat, "Did you mean it at the concert? Getting back together and everything?"

"Everything. I meant it all"

"I've been thinking about all the things that happened when we were together and when we weren't and everything you said and what I said. So I think, if you're also willing to fight for us, then I think we can try again. Is that okay?"

All rights to the song/lyrics Hoodie go towards Hey Violet. Click here to listen to Hoodie, and show some love to their other work.

Writing in this one shot, excluding lyrics, goes towards videolaa. Do not repost, steal, or post this anywhere unless you have permission.

[starfxkr]

Need more John b x reader x tp!!jj omfggg!!!!!!

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆

whenever john b visited, it was like jj was 20 years younger. the two of them spun around each other in such an easy banter sometimes it felt like you were more of a spectator to decades of friendship rather than an active participant.

and that was fine, because after that first night john b would find his way into the bed and you'd be tucked between their two large bodies, completely content despite the heat and sweat clinging to your body. john b slept so soundly in the bed it seemed like there was always a him shaped space waiting to be filled during the weeks he was gone, one molded long before you came around. maybe it was.

it didn't make you feel like a third wheeler, not at all it made you feel like you were being welcomed into a part of jj's life that he kept close to his chest, yet he trusted you enough to fit you in.

jj thought you fit perfectly--even though he never outright said it. he tested the waters the first night, it'd been years since he shared anyone with john b but you were game, more than game really. from the way you preened under his best friends attention he knew things would only escalate, and the sense of relief he felt when it did was immense. now he didn't feel so tense about having john b around you, there was no need for any strained distances or subtle glances. and you took to john b so well he almost felt jealous.

like now, when he cracked his eyes open in the faint lighting of dawn to see you pressed against him, the brunettes fingers shoved in you mouth while his other hand slowly, gently rubbed over your clit--much gentler than he ever did-- as he spoke softly to you.

you gotta be quiet bubbe, don't wanna wake your old man up, you know he's gotta work early."

you sniffle softly, and given the hitch in your breath, jj knows his friend has sunk his fingers into your cunt, and the wet squelch that quickly fills the room has jj hard so fast he gets dizzy.

his eyes trail up your body, taking note of your soft trembling belly, the tender crescent of your areola partially exposed by your tank top and finally your eyes, screwed shut in effort to keep quiet.

then his gaze locks with john b's-- gentle and brown and jj doesn't know what to do. should he touch you? should he just watch?

the decision is made for him when john b whispers in your ear and your eyes flutter open, as if on instinct you reach for jj and he follows, slipping his hand in your panties next to his friends as the two work you with ease.

"you're a real greedy girl sweet pea, think i spoil you too much." jj kisses you before you can reply, sucking your tongue into his mouth just to hear you whimper.

never one to be left out, john b tilts your head up to capture your lips as well, jj following close behind until you're a tangle of tongues and kiss swollen lips as they continue to fuck you on their fingers all slick and messy as they both stretch you out.

you can barely breathe--they don't let you, and you're gasping to suck down as much air as possible when jj pulls the hood of your clit back for john b to stroke the sensitive flesh. your eyes screw shut yet again when your mouth drops open as you cum, soft clicking grunts echoing in the back of your throat that they swallow up gratefully until you relax.

you're laying on john b's chest when your done, both of you watching as jj shuffles around to get ready for work while the sun fully rises outside. he looks relaxed despite the fact that he's still semi hard--the handjob john b gave him did little to soothe the ache but he said it was fine. he might just call you for his lunch break. or he might just let it simmer until he came home.

john b doesn't get up either and jj doesn't make him, dapping him up from the bed as jj kisses you on the forehead and gives you permission to order out for dinner.

anything for you sweet pea, you know that.

between jj and john b you fit, seamlessly and easily, like they'd been waiting for you the whole time.

[porcelainseashore]

Into the Ether (8)

Series Masterlist

Pairing: Vampire! Toreador! Leon Kennedy x Fem! Reader

Summary: At the all-night events cafe you run, you’ve become acquainted with an elusive patron, Leon, though you can never remember the last moments of your interactions together. After a harrowing encounter, a love-hate relationship develops between the two of you as you grapple with your newfound status in a world of darkness and investigate the reasons behind the untimely attacks.

Content & Warnings: 18+ Resident Evil x Vampire: The Masquerade crossover, horror, mystery, romance, slow burn, strangers to enemies to lovers, angst, fluff, eventual smut, swearing, smoking, non consensual blood drinking, blood bond, vampire turning, violence, injury, mild gore, torture, religious themes, minor character death, RE ensemble, VtM concepts.

Authors' Note: Implied torture and mild gore ahead.

Taglist: @admirxation @angelstargel @miss-oranje-disco-dancer ❤️‍🔥

AO3 Link

Chapter 8: The Chantry

He should’ve known you would be sharp enough to pick up on his remark about the suitor back at the cafe. Damn him and his big mouth. Well, you would’ve gotten wind of it somehow anyway, especially since Wesker had put you on this case with him too.

You waited patiently for his answer, as you saw a range of emotions sweep across Leon’s face. Unlike his compatriot, Luis, he was not a great talker. You’d experienced that first hand when he tried to reveal his nature to you.

“I don’t know who he is exactly, but most likely a higher-ranking Anarch,” he divulged, eyeing you intently to gauge your reaction. “The guy wanted to use you as a way to bring the East Side under their domain.”

A bunch of mixed feelings churned within you as you lamented the fact that just when you were beginning to reach an understanding with the man, fate decided to throw another roadblock in your path. “So, you Embraced me first to prevent that,” you deduced, the hurt in your voice evident as you made the following observation, “Was I just some political tool to you?”

“No, angel—” he caught himself as he accidentally let slip his term of affection for you. “You have never been, and will never be, a tool to me.”

Reaching over, he laid his hand protectively atop yours, tracing delicate patterns across its back. To his surprise, you didn’t berate him for using that pet name, nor did you shy away from his touch. Perhaps you had given in, your fire extinguished to smoky cinders.

“You know I feel a great deal for you… and regardless of what you may think, I’ve always wanted you to have a say in your Embrace,” he reiterated undeniably.

You bit your lip, still doubtful of his words. “What would you have done if I had said no?”

There was a thoughtful pause before he replied, “Probably be devastated, but I could never force you. Not like that.”

With a bitter laugh, he commented further, “I might’ve killed that son of a bitch before he got to you though.”

All at once, you were reminded of the side that made him inhuman, talking about murder as if it were a normal part of his daily routine. It irked you, but it also comforted you that he would do anything to keep you safe.

“And risk Final Death?” you asked, wondering if he was joking, or if he really would break the last of the Traditions for you. Unless the Prince had issued a Blood Hunt on a specific individual or group of Kindred, he would be forbidden to destroy another of his kind.

“Would’ve been worth it,” he quipped under his breath, his searing gaze unabashedly roaming across your body, following every contour of your silhouette as he admired what was before him. 

You wore things differently from his sire, which was all he had ever known. When he reminisced about Ada, bold, bright reds, like a fountain of blood, flooded his mind. Blood which he drank from every Sunday, worshiping martyrs and sacrifices, up until the point he had strayed. Blood which gave him a taste of life and death, anger and passion, lust and love. Blood from a broken hymen on bleached white sheets, like the innocence he’d lost when he stepped into the underworld. Blood drained from a pig to drench him in when he was hazed, the resulting humiliation he had felt after and his reddened cheeks, just like the shame that carved out a hole within him when Ada left. His throat tightened, just like the way her clothes hugged her body like a boa constrictor.

And then there was you, in emerald greens, deep burgundies and swatches of black — duller, yet no less luminescent beneath the surface. Something he had to work for, digging to unearth the gem of humanity he had squandered away over restless nights and bouts of insomnia. Your flowy dress robes and kaftans transported him to gap year adventures under the starry skies in Morocco, sand filling your shoes, and the scorching heat on the desert breeze. He had never been, never left the city since he was turned. But he loved to imagine a future where he could travel there with you. Dancing with wild abandon, in dark kohl eyeliner and that carefree smile. God, that smile… and your fire. You could captivate him for days. He never thought he could feel so intensely for another person again, but he was wrong — and he was glad to be.

From your end, you regarded him with reservation. The love he declared for you bordered on instinctual passion and obsession, and you couldn’t decide if you found it flattering or problematic. As a Toreador by blood, would you end up like him? It was still early days, yet he treated you as if he had been pining after you for a century. You wondered if this was just a temporary, fleeting thing and he would eventually tire of you in time to come.

Almost as though he could read your mind, he broke away, avoiding eye contact with you as he apologized, “Sorry, I, uh, didn’t mean to make you feel uncomfortable.”

Adjusting his collar awkwardly, he cleared his throat, coming back to his senses as he uttered, “We should, um, discuss about the Tremere.”

You nodded in agreement, dabbing your palms against your forehead and cheeks, letting the coolness seep into your warm, flustered skin. “So, I’m guessing you found something?”

“Not quite,” he sighed, gently rubbing the temples at the sides of his head.

Pushing himself up off the couch, he went over to his desk, grabbed a bunch of papers, and handed them over to you. Thumbing through the sheets, you briefly scanned its contents, realizing it was a shift schedule of all the Umbrella scientists based in NEST, as well as a couple of reports, though signed under a different name from the person you were meant to get in contact with.

Ms. Rebecca Chambers. The up-and-coming Tremere prodigy who had recently returned from a stint at the Hartford Chantry, renowned for their work on mind and memory alterations. Like the rest of the clans, the Tremere were a secretive sort, and even more so. They guarded their research and activities closely within their base of operations, known as chantries. Leon had mentioned to you about their adeptness in matters of the blood or ‘Blood Sorcery’ as it was named. They had once been a group of mages who discovered immortality through undeath, though they had wrangled their power at the expense of other Kindred. No wonder Jill had called them ‘ursupers’. You didn’t like the sound of their schemes and ploys either.

“Rebecca’s not in any of the schedules, and there’s no trace of her anywhere, even though she works directly under Wesker,” he put forth. “She’s not even credited in the projects she’s meant to be researching on.”

“It’s all signed off by this guy: Glenn… Arias?” you took a shot at pronouncing his name while flicking through the pages.

“Yeah, that’s her Regent,” he pointed out. “And a jealous one at that.”

“What do you mean?” You stopped rummaging, peering at Leon with a quizzical look.

“Well, word has it that he intends to hold onto his position for as long as he’s unliving. Meaning, capable apprentices are considered a threat to be dealt with,” he expunged.

“But he can’t just make someone relatively high-profile like Rebecca disappear,” you stated, pinching your chin in a thinker’s pose. All this sleuthing reminded you of those classic black-and-white noir films from the 1940s. Pity you were missing the whiskey and cigars.

“Yes, he can,” he insisted, pacing the room like a lead detective hot on the case. “He’s already doing it now — scrubbing out her achievements, making sure she leaves an invisible trail, and hoping that she’ll be forgotten among the sea of neonates who dazzled a little too brightly.”

“And of course the fucker is taking all the credit for her work,” you sneered, disliking this guy already before you even met him.

“Looks like you and I have something in common then,” he noted with a lopsided smile. He hated the man as much as you did. “Unfortunately this leaves us with no choice. If we want to get to Rebecca, then we’ll need to go through the fucker.”

You slumped back into the couch, your weight causing the upholstery to mold to your body. “Gonna need a whiskey beforehand.”

Shaking his head as he laughed, he took a seat on the coffee table directly opposite the couch facing you. “Sure, just be prepared to throw it up an hour later.”

━━━━━━━━━━━

When nightfall came the next day, you found yourself sulking in the passenger seat of Leon’s jeep as he drove towards the northwest of Raccoon City, heading straight into Raccoon Forest. It would be several miles before you’d reach your destination. In the background, grunge rock music from one of the local radio stations played at a low volume through the car speakers. Resting your head against the window, you heard Leon humming along to the melody as he tapped the steering wheel in time with the steady beat of the track.

“Funny, didn’t take you as a rock’n’roll kinda guy,” you muttered, still peering out of the glass pane, unwilling to look at the man who you were dead certain was wearing a giant smirk on his face right now.

“Glad I can continue to surprise you then,” he answered jovially. “I was young and rebellious once you know.”

“You? A rebel? Please…” you scoffed, rolling your eyes so far back into your head you probably could’ve popped them out of your sockets if you wanted to.

Instead of replying, he belted out the chorus lyrics in his annoyingly smooth voice. Frankly, you were a little sore about your exchange earlier back at his place when he had kept his word, and allowed you to have a sip from a cask of fine French whiskey stored in his vitrine. The problem was, he didn’t tell you that it would taste like shit.

Seeing as your undead body wouldn’t be able to digest it, you were prepared to risk throwing up just to have a shot of alcohol running through your veins. However, it turned out that everything except wine would taste like ashes and dirt. You didn’t even need to force yourself to regurgitate the contents; you did it naturally, spewing it out like a spray while Leon howled with laughter. Some fucking joke that was. Asshole.

“Still pissed off, huh?” he questioned. You could sense a hint of remorse in his voice.

“Take a guess.”

You felt his fingers brush against your arm. “Hey, I’m sorry. Sometimes I get a bit carried away,” he whispered apologetically, his tone subdued, as if he was a dog who’d been chastised.

“Mm.” You pursed your lips, shrugging noncommittally.

“If you want, I can teach you how to be able to enjoy things like before,” he offered as a form of consolation. “But to experience the effects of alcohol, you’ll need to drink from the inebriated.”

Finally, you faced him to catch his midnight blue gaze, and he gave a weak smile. “Time for me to get wasted then.”

He took that as a sign that you had forgiven him, and you were back to bantering again. “No drinking on the job,” he warned.

“Yes, boss.”

With that, you turned your attention to the changing scenery outside, which blurred past your window. Gone were the city lights in the distance; you were now deep within the thicket of the forest. Tree branches shaped like claws scraped the sides of the vehicle and peculiar winged creatures flew in and out of the shadows. The only source of light was the car's beam, focused directly on the path ahead. At times, you thought you could make out pairs of glowing red eyes from the bushes in the dark surrounding you. Clutching the door armrest, you felt pinpricks of cold sweat forming on your palms, and you couldn’t wait for this segment of the journey to end.

As you reached a clearing, you saw the pale moonlight gleaming overhead through the clouded sky, its pearlescent light casting a silvery sheen across everything in sight. That’s when you spotted the imposing mansion in front of you as the car made its way up the driveway. There was a bluish tinge to its white-painted exterior, and although the building was well-kept, there was a decaying quality to it, as if it had been abandoned by its owners decades ago. You observed its towering columns and large lancet windows, noting the intricate details carved into the eaves of the roof. Who knew there was a mysterious grand manor situated in the middle of nowhere within the woods? You felt like an extra in a B-movie horror film.

After parking the car, you and Leon hopped out of the vehicle, walking over towards the main entrance of the house. Except for the sound of gravel crunching underfoot, it was eerily silent and nothing stirred. It began to dawn on you why the place was so unnerving: there was no rustling of animals or chirping of insects; it was completely devoid of life.

Spencer Mansion. So, this foreboding construct was Raccoon City’s Tremere Chantry. Perhaps there were worse clans to be part of, you ruminated.

Raising his knuckles, Leon was about to knock on the front doors when they creaked slightly ajar on their own, until a strong gust of wind materialized out of thin air, swinging them wide open as they rattled against the walls of the house. “Nice party trick,” he mumbled sarcastically.

“I heard that,” a voice boomed from the main hall.

The hallway was as opulent and musty as the building's facade, with smooth, spotless marble-tiled floors and a red carpet rolled out from the door towards the stairs. There was an elegant chandelier suspended from the vaulted ceiling, as well as decorative candle stands and sconces in every corner. Despite the multitude of light sources available, the room still seemed dimly lit.

In the center of the carpet stood a woman in a preppy tweed pantsuit, picking at her fingernails as she eyed the two of you haughtily. Even though she was alone, you had the strange sense that there were plenty of others in the room hiding in plain sight, and watching you from the shadows.

“An acolyte,” Leon whispered, making sure he was out of earshot this time.

It was just a fancy name the Tremere gave to a fledgling. Essentially, she was at the bottom rung of the pyramid, a newbie like yourself, and yet she was behaving as if she owned the entire manor.

“The Regent is waiting for you in the bar,” she informed. With a slight, dismissive wave of her hand, she indicated for you to follow her.

“Stick close to me,” Leon instructed, drawing you in until your arm bumped against the side of his chest. “You don’t want to get lost here.”

Definitely not. You’d heard about the chantry traps that the Tremere were famous for, designed to keep out both malicious entities and those unfortunate souls who had accidentally stumbled in, blissfully unaware of the nature of this place. Ending up like them would be worse than a disaster.

As you passed through the main hall, a stately set of doors on your left caught your eye. They were cracked open, and through the gap, you could see two rows of people seated opposite each other at the long cherry wood dining table. A large burlap sack, bound with rope, lay on its surface; whatever was inside squealed and kicked about. You could hear its muffled screams when suddenly, all the diners turned their heads to face you, completely expressionless.

Gasping in shock, you instinctively huddled against Leon’s body, seeking refuge from the chilling scene you had just encountered. He hooked his arm around your shoulder, allowing your head to burrow in the crook of his neck as you continued onwards. An odious grin crept over the acolyte’s face as she witnessed your reaction.

Climbing up the stairs, the whole mansion descended into a torturous maze. It was a nauseating feeling to lose all sense of direction, unable to distinguish where you were or where you were going. Each corridor looked the same; you took countless left and right turns, and it felt as if you were being led around in circles. Even your depth perception was off; objects shifted and merged, and passages stretched and compressed as you walked through them. It became increasingly difficult to judge your distance from anything in sight.

You tried to focus on the acolyte, using her as a beacon to guide you through this complex web. Although Leon was faring better than you, he too appeared to be struggling to keep up with the pace. You were ascending levels only to head back down again, no longer sure which floor of the mansion you were on. Was this some cruel joke she was playing on the two of you, or were they trying to ensure you’d never remember how to navigate a route through the building?

The next time, it was Leon who saw something unspeakable. Red light emanated from a narrow doorway at the side, and within it, a naked man was strapped to a sturdy mahogany chair. His head lolled on his chest and his frail body was bruised and battered. Pieces of his flesh had been carved out in strange shapes; some of the slabs were scattered on the floor. His festering wounds were weeping and if not for his feeble, trembling groan, Leon would have assumed he had been long dead.

“Christ, this is some sick shit,” he hissed under his breath in revulsion. You peered in the direction he had glanced at, but there was only an austere portrait hanging against a blank wall. Were the both of you going mad and imagining things?

Shaking his head, he advised, “You don’t want to go looking for it, trust me.” 

At last, the acolyte came to a stop, ushering you into a modest-sized room with checkered tile floors, reminiscent of a chessboard, and an oak bar counter at the side where a clean-cut, impeccably dressed man sat. There was a grand piano facing the bar, and Moonlight Sonata was playing on its keys despite there being no musician present at the instrument.

The room was vacant, apart from the lone person by the bar, whom you presumed was Glenn. He appeared to be a middle-aged man with graying hair and a deep scar across his left eyebrow. His long suit coat was a well-coordinated palette of grays, reds and blacks. As he imbibed the ruby red liquid in his crystal tumbler glass, a dash of it spilled out by accident, though it hovered in the air. Setting the glass down, he sucked it into his mouth with ease; his mouth twisting into a sinister smile.

“Please, make yourselves at home,” he welcomed both of you, gesturing to the unoccupied bar stools before him. Despite his mild mannerisms, his gaze was cold and calculating, honed through years of corrupt transactions and political backstabbing.

When you had settled in, the acolyte closed the door shut, leaving you with the man. It was then that he spoke up again, “There’s no need for pleasantries, so let me cut to the chase. You wish to see Ms. Chambers, yes?”

“On Prince’s orders,” Leon highlighted.

At this, Glenn laughed contemptuously, “I thought you knew better than to use threats against me, Mr. Kennedy.” He extended his gloved finger, wagging it scathingly in front of Leon’s face. “Unlike what the rest of you neonates think, the P-word doesn’t hold much weight here.”

Retracting his hand, he reiterated, “For your sake and the sake of your childe, I suggest you learn to play by my rules.”

You watched as Leon lowered his head in submission as your hatred towards Glenn grew. Were all the Tremere stuck-up assholes? You had a hunch that such behavior was largely shaped by this man himself.

“Excuse my earlier transgression, Mr. Arias,” Leon apologized rather perfunctorily. “Is there something we might offer in exchange for the inconvenience?”

“That’s more like it,” Glenn remarked, curling his finger over his lip as he nodded favorably. “Well, now that you mention it, I suppose there is.”

From under his coat, he pulled out a thin folder of documents, handing it over to Leon. “You see, for some reason, it’s been a tradition in my clan to divide the roles between Regent and Primogen, when really, they could just be handled by the same person.”

“And you want the Primogen title,” Leon surmised.

What else would he expect from a power hungry Tremere, who wanted the best of both worlds? As a Primogen, he would be considered his clan’s representative within the Prince’s Council — the first port of call the Prince would consult on various matters. That, along with being the figurehead of the Chantry, would allow him to elevate his status to what would essentially be a dictatorship within his clan.

“You said that, not me,” Glenn pointed out sneakily. “I’m merely exposing the incompetence of the current appointee.”

He tapped the documents in Leon’s hands. “Anyway, back to business. It’s quite simple, I’d like you to plant these documents in the office of the current Tremere Primogen. Discreetly, of course.”

Pausing for dramatic effect, he drummed his fingers on the counter. “And then we’ll see about your visit with Ms. Chambers.”

“What’s in them?” you questioned abruptly.

His eyes snapped sharply to you.“Oh, so she speaks!” he mocked. “Let’s put it this way, it’s enough to get her for treason.”

You were about to counter with a barbed remark when Leon cut in, talking over you, “Mr. Arias, would you be so kind as to allow my childe and me a few minutes to converse over this matter in private?”

An acerbic smirk appeared on Glenn’s face. “Of course.” He nodded slightly and took his leave.

“So you’re just gonna sit there and accept this slimy motherfucker’s offer?” you goaded, already irritated about being interrupted by your sire earlier.

“Language!” Leon hissed, reproaching you gravely. “The walls have ears.”

This only served to incense you even more, as you slammed your palm on the countertop in defiance. Glenn’s empty glass skittered across its surface, though Leon caught it just in time before it shattered onto the ground. 

“You’re condemning an innocent person to Final Death or worse!” you accused.

A dry chuckle slipped from his lips. “Innocent? No one in that sort of position, let alone this world, is innocent.”

For once, you were at a loss for words, only able to articulate how you felt about him in the moment. “You disgust me.”

“Honestly, I disgust myself at times,” he admitted rather self-deprecatingly.

Some part of you could understand that perhaps this was all he knew: lies, deceit, and shady dealings. Could you change that and make him see things from your perspective? You had to try.

Placing your hand over his, you squeezed it, peering into his brilliant blues as you reasoned, “How many compromises are you going to make until there’s nothing left in here?” You prodded his chest gently with your finger, urging him to reflect on what made him human.

“I—” He scrunched up his face, a tormented expression blooming across it as he turned away, unable to look you in the eye. “I-I can’t…” His voice was pinched and strained, as if it would hurt him to utter any more words.

“This is just how it works in the Kindred world,” he asserted, his shoulders slumping in defeat.

Your anger dissipated into pure disappointment, weighing like a stone in your heart. “Keep telling yourself that,” you stated simply as you let him go, resigning yourself to your original position. Coward, you denounced internally.

As if on cue, you heard three sharp knocks on the door before Glenn came back in. “So?” he questioned, glancing over at the two of you in anticipation.

Leon’s features stiffened as he met the man’s gaze head-on. “We accept.”