#taking longs walks at evenings to watch the sea and feel soft sand under their feet

[ronkoza]

More honeymoon cows, these Arne sketches are most likely photos that Tor took.

Tor belongs to @littleulvar

[ouchmyheart22]

Hii pretty please something with buggy flirting w reader either with or without a body and at first it's just some off handed comment but reader thinks he's so hot so they get a little 😳👉👈 so he flirts with her more and more and gets increasingly suggestive just to see her squirm<3

Absolutely my love - hope this is what you wanted <3

Request for Buggy x Reader (OPLA Buggy the Clown)

Word Count: 1.7K

Warning: mentions of sex.

He leaned against his chair with such ease and nonchalance, his legs spread wide, one hand on his thigh, the other gripping the whiskey glass. His chin was darkened by stubble, his red lipstick was faded, smudging the crystal glass in his gloved hand.

You tried to focus on pouring the next customers drink but it was no use, your eyes kept trailing towards the corner of the bar, where Buggy and his crew had settled for the night.

Settled, they were anything but settled. Rowdy and increasingly loud, your boss seemed to tolerate the pirates for the business.

You hadn’t even spoke to him. Cabaji had ordered a bottle of whiskey for the captain, while Buggy had made himself comfortable at the head of the table. Perfectly in your eyeline, which you couldn’t tell was a good thing or bad thing.

He shrugged off his coat, revealing his toned arms, veins prominent in his forearms, a hazy blue colour under the fluorescents of the bar.. Definitely a bad thing you decided.

You turned away from the Buggy pirates, in an attempt to distract yourself. You tried to focus on drying the glass in your hands, ignoring the sound of laughter from behind you.

They were all intimidating, sure, they were pirates after all, but there was something about the captain that made your mouth dry, your muscles tense up. His air of confidence and familiarity, as he walked into the bar for the first time, commanding the space. Power.

You wondered what is felt like to have that power.

‘A pint of Red Herring and another bottle of Davy Jones whiskey sweetheart’

You’d been listening to his voice all night. Telling stories to his crew about a straw hat pirates and his friends, how he had successfully infiltrated their crew, and defeated Arlong single handed.

It was a husky tone, mischievous and teasing, he seemed to always be biting back a laugh.

You almost dropped the beer glass in your hands as you turned to him, your eyes wide and innocent.

His palms were flush against the bar, his arms stretched, flexing as he bent them to rest on the counter.

Your mouth opened and closed, suddenly full of sand as your tongue refused to form any words.

He grinned, his red lipstick stretching up his cheeks with amusement.

‘Well hello there Bambi’ the words tumbled from his lips before he even thought.

You blinked, not doing much for the impression.

God Buggy thought, you were a nice change. Young and beautiful, radiating the type of innocence someone at sea had long lost. Your doe eyes were big and expressive, he relished the feeling of your gaze on him. Your lips rested in a little pout, pink and plush as you nodded at him in response.

Buggy started to grind his teeth. Your bottom lip would be better suited between his teeth he thought.

You smiled, polite and shy, clearly too nervous to reply to the captain. For fear your voice would betray you, and come out stuttering and broken.

He leaned further onto the bar as you pulled the tap for the red ale, filling a pint for him.

He watched your small hands, grip the beer tap with ease, your fingers wrapped around the handle. God he wondered what those fingers would feel like wrapped around his-‘

‘I’ll just go take the whiskey from the back’

You finally spoke, your voice sickly sweet to him. It was soft, patient even, though he assumed you must have a lot of patience to be dealing with drunkards all day long.

He nodded, grinning at you, his eyes darkened.

‘I’m sure you love taking things from the back sweets’

Your entire face seemed to fill with colour, your cheeks volcanic hot as you stared at the clown. Had you heard that right? Did he actually just say that ? To you?

He laughed, jutting his chin towards to door wordlessly. As if to say go on, go ahead. You give a small nod, fiddling with your hands as you pushing open the storage room with your shoulder.

A breath escapes you, one you didn't know you had been holding.

God you must have looked so dumb. So naive. What must he be thinking of you? He wasn't thinking of you probably, had probably forgotten what you'd looked like by now.

You cursed yourself as you slid open the glass cabinet that held the top shelf spirits, ironically on the bottom shelf, gripping the Davy Jones bottle carefully.

Turning back towards the door, you allowed yourself a deep breath. Your hands were shaking with anxiety, aching from the adrenaline rush. God you were so reactive, too reactive for your liking. Letting on just how inexperienced you were.

If any other man had spoken to you like that you probably would have rolled your eyes, mentally gagging. But it seemed the attention the clown was giving you was making you squirm.

Gripping the door handle, you held the whiskey close to your chest, easing the blush that had spread down your neck. You allowed another deep breath before you pulled the door open with a small tug.

He had appeared at the door like a shadow, blocking the light from the bar outside the small storage room. His hat allowed a small bit of light to peak over the brim, but his entire form was now darkened, his eyes fell on you expectedly.

You resisted the urge to gulp.

‘Need a hand princess?’

He had popped his right hand off, floating towards you, he wigged his finger in front of your nose.

‘I-I got it’ you answered, weakly holding up the whiskey. You looked at the hand, and then at Buggy, who winked, clicking his tongue for emphasis.

He hummed, taking the bottle from your hand with his detached glove. It attached itself back to his forearm with a satisfying thunk.

Licking his lips, he replied.

‘I just got a craving for something sweet’ he decided

You blinked. Catching yourself with wide eyes again, you forced your eyes shut for a second, playing with your apron you responded.

‘Um.. okay' that was all you could get out at first, before your forced your customer service training to kick in 'What would you like?’

His eyes darkened, his chin dropping to stair at you better. He was an attractive man, even with the makeup, even in the dim lighting, even with the nose.

‘I’d like you. On the rocks. With a lemon slice’ his voice was teasing and rough, an interesting combination that sounded so perfect in your ears.

‘But I’ll settle for a cocktail sweetheart’ he finished, his wolfish grin subdued by a satisfied smirk.

You nodded, weakly, you felt like your body was rusted, in desperate need of oiling.

‘Any preference?’ You didn’t stutter this time but your voice was still smaller than usual. You cringed, you sounded pathetic.

‘I’m sure you’d know what I like sweets’ he shrugged, he cocked his head to the side, looking you up and down ‘You seem very attentive’

You nodded.

That was all you seemed to be able to do around him. He seemed amused, highly satisfied he had mustered such a reaction. Like a cat playing with a mouse he'd caught, dragging you back by your tail each time you slipped away.

He turned to allow you to pass him, though remained in the doorway so you could not avoid his gaze.

As you stepped out of the supply cupboard he bent down, his long blue hair swinging from his hat, a smile plastered on his red lips.

‘Not too sweet though, I don’t want to ruin my appetite’

He chomped down on his teeth, making a satisfying click sound, allowing his eyes to trail down your figure again. His eyes seemed to burn holes into your back as you cross the bar, away from him to start the drink.

By the time he had sauntered back to sit in front of you, your hands had stopped shaking and you were cutting lemon.

He watches you make the cocktail like a lion, watching an injured gazelle stumble, his eyes trained on your every move. You meet his eyes once, they're sea green, bold and piercing. He chuckles as you jerk your head back towards the glass.

‘Pretty’ he comments, his gloved hands are spread out on the counter, so much bigger than your own. You've never liked feeling small, but suddenly you feel just fine about it.

‘Hmm?’ Your head pops up from the cocktail glass, the small shot glass still in your hand. Did he just call you-

His lips turn up again, satisfied with your reaction. He holds your gaze, though you desperately hope the clown breaks the eye contact first. Though that seemed unlikely

‘The cocktail’ he allows his gaze to fall to the pink, frothing liquid below you.

Of course he meant the cocktail.

You place the tall tulip glass in front of him, placing the small red flower as garnish, you finally allow your shoulders to loosen.

He looks to you. Then looks at the cocktail. Then back to you.

This time, you are very aware you are holding your breath. Your hands are clasped behind your back, in an attempt to stretch your shoulders.

He takes a long sip, his eyes never leaving yours.

This feels too intimate for the setting, especially when you see Buggy swallow and his adams apple bobs. You think you might go insane, you want to scream at the clown.

‘Taste okay?’ you manage, forcing a small smile as he rests the glass on the counter.

He shrugs, crossing his arms, leaning closer to your side of the bar.

You look disappointed, like a kicked puppy, but only for a second, as you put on a brave face and open your mouth to offer him an alternative.

Buggy grins, wider than he has the whole night. Watching you squirm has certainly granted him with great entertainment, the best show he's watched in a long time.

He grabs the pint and the whiskey bottle, cackling as he turns away from the bar, leaving you bright red and shifting on your feet.

'You look like you'd taste a lot better sweetheart'

[itsmealaiah]

Back off (Tom Kaulitz)

A/n: Fluff of 2014-2015 Tom (one of my favorite years of his) 

Synopsis: When Y/n and Tom are at the beach, an intoxicated man comes up to her and tries to pull her away from Tom.

The sand beneath my toes shifted as I gazed out over the crystal blue waters of the Mexican shore. The salty air danced around me, teasing my senses with the scent of adventure. It was on this very beach that I had first met y/n, the woman who would become my everything. Her laughter, the way she smiled at me when I told her jokes, the way she would lean into me when we danced...it was all so perfect.

Today, we decided to take a break from the busy tourist spots and seek out a more secluded spot to relax. We found ourselves at the foot of a small hill, the sand warm beneath our bare feet. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore was soothing, almost hypnotic. It was the kind of place where you could forget about the outside world and just be with the person you loved most.

I glanced over at y/n, watching as she playfully chased a gull that had dared to venture too close to her towel. She was wearing a tiny red bikini that hugged her curves perfectly, making her look even more stunning than usual. Her long, dark hair flowed in the breeze, and she had a carefree smile on her face. I felt my heart swell with love for her.

Just then, a guy walked up to her, his eyes hungry and his words slurring. "Hey, baby, you want some company?" he asked, clearly drunk. I felt a wave of anger rise up inside me. This guy had no idea who he was dealing with. I shot up from my spot in the sand, towering over him. "Hey, buddy," I said, my voice low and menacing, "why don't you back off and leave her alone?"The guy looked me up and down, clearly taken aback by my presence. "Who the hell are you?" he sneered, taking a step closer to y/n. "She's not with you."

I felt my blood boil at his words. "Oh, but she is," I said, my voice still low and controlled. "And she's not interested in some drunk idiot like you." I glanced over at y/n, hoping she was getting the message that it was okay for her to leave the guy alone.The guy huffed, clearly not backing down easily. "Fine, asshole," he growled, taking another step closer to y/n. "But she's gonna regret not giving me a chance." His hands landed on her shoulders, pushing her back against the sand.

I couldn't believe what I was seeing. This guy had no idea who he was messing with. I took a deep breath, trying to remain calm, and then lunged forward, wrapping my hands around his wrists and pushing him off y/n. "You don't touch her," I hissed through gritted teeth. "Do you understand me?"

The guy glared at me, but finally seemed to realize that he wasn't going to win this fight. He stumbled back a few steps, muttering obscenities under his breath. I turned to y/n, who was now on her feet and looking a little shaken. "Are you okay?" I asked her, my heart racing.She nodded, her hands still shaking a little. "Yeah, I'm fine," she said, her voice unsteady. "Thanks for coming to my rescue." She looked up at me, her dark eyes meeting mine. There was a mix of gratitude and amusement in them, and it made my heart flutter.I smiled down at her, trying to reassure her. "I'd always come to your rescue, my love," I told her, my voice soft and gentle. "You know that." I reached out and took her hand in mine, lacing our fingers together.

We stood there for a moment, just watching the waves roll in and out, the sound of the sea providing a soothing backdrop to our conversation. I couldn't help but feel grateful for this day, for this woman, and for the chance to be with her on this beautiful beach."You know," she began, her voice still a little unsteady, "I could've handled him, you know."I laughed, shaking my head. "Oh, yeah? How?" I asked, teasing her. "You were doing a great job of looking cute and innocent until I showed up."

She rolled her eyes, but there was a small smile playing at the corners of her mouth. "Oh, yeah? Well, you're just lucky I'm not the jealous type," she said, playfully poking me in the side. "You know, I could've easily found someone better looking and more interesting than him."I raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Like who? Brad Pitt? George Clooney?" I countered, trying to lighten the mood.

She giggled, shaking her head. "No, silly," she said, leaning in closer to me. "Like you." And then she kissed me, her lips soft and warm against mine. As we kissed, I could feel the tension from the earlier altercation melt away, replaced by the pure, unadulterated joy of being with the woman I loved.

The sun was starting to dip below the horizon, painting the sky a breathtaking shade of pink and orange. I knew that soon enough we'd have to head back to our resort, but for now, I wanted to stay here with her forever. I wrapped my arms around her waist, pulling her closer, and buried my face in her neck, breathing in the sweet, salty scent of her skin."You know," she whispered, her voice low and sultry, "I think this beach might be our lucky spot."

I pulled away just enough to look into her eyes. "Really?"She nodded slowly, a mischievous smile playing at the corners of her lips. "Yeah, I think it is." And then she leaned in, pressing her body against mine once more. I felt her hand slip under my shirt, tracing gentle circles on my bare skin as her tongue danced with mine. The warmth of her touch sent a shiver down my spine, making my heart race with desire.

A/n: Thank you for this request, I love it! The beach is one of my most treasured places 😊

1015 words! Hope you enjoyed this chapter! mwah ❤️

[mimising]

Summer with stranger | Carlos Sainz

-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Carlos x (she)reader

Little angsty with sweet savoury.

--- It's my first time to write something like this. I have NO idea what I'm actually doing. Do enjoy if it's enjoyable.

---

“Please don’t cry.” Her head sifted from her hands. Big watery eyes looked up to him. He squatted down in front of her. “What’s the matter? Who made a pretty girl like you cry?” She sniffed. “Some arsehole.” The girl took a closer look at a man in front of her. His skin was golden brown, fluffy hair sat just right. Only she couldn’t look the man in the eyes. 

 Carlos put his hand on her shoulder. “I’ve heard that hugs make everything go away. Would you like to try it out?” His voice sounded sincere. She didn’t say anything but sifted her hands. That was all he needed to see and took the girl in his arms. One hand caressed her hair while the other held her tight against his chest. Head pressed against his neck and shoulder. He could feel her warmth and heartbeat. Tears started to slowly soak his shirt. Her smell was divine. 

 Slowly the girl started to feel a sense of comfort. The arsehole was forgotten for a minute. She felt safe. Although her nose was blocked from the crying she could smell his strong cologne wrapping her in a heavenly space. 

“Would you like to go for a walk?” Suddenly the comfort was gone and cold reality was back. The girl nodded. “Ye-yeah, I would like that.” 

He stood up and held his hand out to her. This was the first time she really looked up and saw the man's eyes. Soft brown eyes which matched with his fluffy hair. 

“I was on my way to the beach. If you're interested then we could go there for a swim.” He did have a towel on his other shoulder. “I don’t have a towel.” All she could come up with. The part where she didn’t really know how to swim was left out. “No need to worry about that. They must have plenty to rent.” 

If he hadn’t been so sweet she would have declined but for some reason she just couldn’t. “You are right. Will figure something out.” She smiled at him and looked away when their eyes met. Blood rushed to her cheeks. 

As they walked he asked if she was local but learning that she was just visiting and didn’t know much about the city did he start talking about the beauty of it. She enjoyed listening about cafes to visit and roads to walk through. 

The girl was quiet and he didn’t even know her name. “You are visiting for the first time. Is there a particular reason why here or?” 

“I was meant to pay a visit to my boyfr- ex’s summer house. Things took a darker turn and now I’m just here to leave.” “Sorry, I didn’t mean to overstep-” “It’s completely fine. I should be the one apologizing and thanking.”

They walked side by side, almost close enough to hold hands. Occasionally catching sights of each other.  Her face started to light up. Teares long forgotten. 

The sand was warm under their feet. She soaked in all the warmth and hid the fear of the sea with smiling. 

“I never got your name..” As he was taking off his shirt he said “Carlos. Carlos Sainz. And you?” For a second the dictionary was forgotten. The man was ripped. She couldn’t stop blushing. After saying her name she held out her hand. He snickers but shakes it. Even his hand was twice her size. 

He tried to be polite and not check her out. What a naive idea. She looked like heaven. Her skin white like the milky way. It didn’t go unnoticed by her.“I’m from a colder area. That’s why my skin is so light.” He took a sharp turn to the sea. 

 “Run to the sea?” She really would have liked to run the other way. Without saying anything she started running to the sea instead. He was hot on her tail. “I’ll catch you, you little-!” 

 She cried out when he caught up with her. Easily running past. She cried out with laughter while adding speed. 

 Once in water, she slowed down. He went head into the water. She stayed back and watched. When Carlos didn’t see her beside him and almost on the shore he screamed “oh no, you are coming in the water!” And swam back to her. “Nono, I’m happy right here.” 

 Carlos didn’t slow down which concerned her and she tried to run back. “You are not going anywhere!” Playfully he pulled her into the water. The water was only to her hips but scared her nevertheless. She screamed with horror and held onto him with her dear life. 

 He pulled the girl against him. “Everything is ok. You are safe with me. I won’t let you get any deeper, cariño.” She caught her breathing back and opened her eyes. 

 “Are you scared of the sea? You should have told me.” Lustful face was washed from his face and replaced with concern. “I didn’t want to ruin your plans. Already ruined your shirt with some mascara.” He chuckled. “This is the least of my problems.” 

 Her hands were still holding tight around his neck. Eyes roaming to his lips. They looked so kissable at this distance. 

 “Actually I have to confess something.” “Go on.” She looked away. “I don’t know how to swim.”

He took her chin into his hand and made her face him. “Then I can teach you. Maybe the sea isn't the best place to start but some other day. For example a pool. How does that sound?” She nodded. “The pool it is then. But right now we can just stand here and feel the warm water. If that’s fine with you.” Once again she nodded. 

 They stayed like this for a few more seconds when she realized their position. Her hands let go of his neck. He cleared his voice. The hands slid away quickly. 

 “You’ve helped me out a lot today. Would you like to grab some lunch together?” She had tried herself with his towel and was putting clothes back on. Carlos tried himself with the same towel. It felt a little erotic to know that just minutes ago the fabric ran against her smooth skin. 

 “Sure. I can take us to somewhere nice.” His meaning of nice ment somewhere fancy at first but the woman didn’t seem to know who he was and he’d love to keep it that way for as long as he can.  “That would be smart. I only ever visited a few places where they mostly served coffee and sweets.”  

 As they were both dressed, they took a turn back to the town. Sun was burning extra bright and finding a shelter with a cooler seemed mandatory. “Do you have a place to stay tonight?” She turned around, looking at him. “Uh, to tell you the truth, not really. I mean, I can afford one more night at the hotel but that’s it. And my booked flight isn’t until next week.” 

 She had forgotten all about her ex and her situation. But the weight was back on her shoulders. He saw the change on her face and regretted immediately what he had asked. “If you’d like, you could stay at my place until your flight back home. Not that I have a big apartment here but some arrangements could be done.” First it sounded a little too good and creepy to her. She had known Carlos for only… a few hours. In reality it felt much longer. And she didn’t have a plan B. Maybe he isn’t trying to kidnap her for her organs and genuinely felt sorry for her. 

 “If I did take your offer, what would you like back? There are no free lunches as they say.” She was shivering. Carlos thought for a minute. He just didn’t want her to go just yet. Moments where someone didn’t know him were rare. She as a person felt rare. “You come to me to the pool to learn how to swim.” First thing that came to his mind. She laughed. “That's beneficial to me. What about you? I could do your laundry for that time period or run errands.” 

 Carlos didn’t need those things to be taken care of. He did enjoy doing them himself after a long season. Just something a normal human can do. “I guess you could help out but I do enjoy doing these things myself.” 

 As she was throwing ideas at him and Carlos tried to decline, they had reached main streets. He had a particular smaller business in his mind where to take her. “Right this way. Even Though it’s out of the main street, the food is delicious.” 

 He stopped in front of a big old door that didn’t have any signs near it. “That? Are you sure? I don’t see any-” she was saying before he opened the door. “Yes, ladies first.” Carlos smirked as she stepped in. The interior was mind blowing. High ceilings, huge windows with a view to the sea. You couldn’t really see it all from the grand entry. 

 “Table for two please.” said Carlos and the waitress took them to one next to a window. Carlos held her chair like a gentelman. “I’ll be right back with your menus. Would you like something to drink?” She sounded sweet but held back for some reason. “Some water with lemon. Is that fine with you?” Carlos was asking that from his companion. “Of course.” Waitress nodded and went away. 

 “This place looks way too fancy. Look at the wallpaper they have. This is either Jane Claytons or I don’t know…” Carlos was a little shocked. He had a wide grin. “How or why do you know about wallpapers?” He was genuinely interested. “I'm a little into interior design and just like to know about history and products.”  Carlos put his elbows on the tabbed and held his head in his hands. 

 She told him more about her interests and job back in the other country. He would occasionally ask one or two things about her work. Finally the waitress came with water and menus. She told them about today's dishes and left. 

 The food was not on the cheaper side and made her anxious. How could she say no if she had asked him to choose the restaurant. She’ll live off noodles for the next few months. Nothing new really. 

 She had chosen the cheapest dish from the menu. Carlos had noticed that.“You know, if you’re concerned about the food then don’t be. It’s on me. Choose whatever you like.” She shook her head. “Mkm, no way. You have helped a lot today. The food is on me.” This went on back and forth til their food arrived. Carlos had convinced her in some circumstance–she would pay for the ice cream after lunch. 

“I haven’t allowed myself a cheat day in a while. Thank you for the ice cream.” He was one of those who bite his ice cream instead of licking. She was licking it. While she did that Carlos would glimpse looks. They were walking without a destination. Mostly him showing her around the town while talking about facts about thing or two. ---

Part 2

[ja3hwa]

Pretty Pirate | Seonghwa

「Synopsis」 : Pretty Pirate goes messing with things she shouldn't.

「Word count」 : 1.26k

-> Genre: Suggestive, Angst. 

Paring: Siren!Seonghwa x Pirate!Reader

[Warnings] : Swearing. Pirate talk. Making out. Nudity (non-sexual and sexual). Neck kissing. Mommy!Seonghwa. Mommy kink. Plot twist. Manipulation. Triggering scenes. Let me know If I missed anything.

Note: This is for @whatudowhennooneseesyou Event! Called Mommy!May. Make sure to check out the other fics from other amazing writers ♡♡

Masterlist | Navigation | Mommy!May Event

Being on the sea was freeing, like time stops when you take your first inhale of the salty air. The damp wood under your palms and the light chirps of seagulls. The leather clutches your figure and the faint smell of liquor on your breath. People told you, yelled that wouldn’t survive on the open water.―it’s no life for a person like you―they would repeat that to you over and over. You never like your family anyway.

“Hey Peach! We are docking soon. Tell cap we hit ground in five.” One of your crew mates, Yunho, called out, making you shake away your blurred and rambled thoughts. You nodded to the taller male, skipping over to the heavy oak door, before banging on it, hard.

“Cap’n we are about to hit ground.” You hear a loud grunt from beyond the door, you roll your eyes before walking away to look out to the island ahead. Your heart skips a beat thinking, remembering the touch from a special secret someone. The night you met him felt like magic, like a dream you never wanted to wake from. But sadly when sun rose and your crew members' voices echoed through the dim cave system. You knew the myth, the man that stole your heart, was gone.

-

“Yeah I hear ya, I do but at the same time I don’t care.” you shrugged your shoulders jumping from the deck onto one of the small boats that are hooked on the side of the ship before you hopped over the side, onto the soft sand below. Wooyoung's shocked expression made you laugh waving him goodbye before you heard him screaming on the top of his lungs;

“You are going to get in trouble. Cap doesn’t like us running off without his knowin’.” He slammed his fist on the dark railing shaking his head as he watched your figure slowly disappear from his view. You were going to be the death of him, literally.

Entering a sizeable open-face cave you stare in awe house the setting sun hits the wet structure's wall's so beautifully, watching the light reflect and dance on the calm water pools. You hoped, prayed you might see your lover, curious if he got word from the birds that you were travelling over his home. And as you crossed passed a large rock formation and spotted a lilac blue tail with a white blend. his hair was as white as sea foam and his skin was pale, soft, and porcelain. He was the definition of perfection.

“Hwa!!” You called getting the merman's attention. He gazed in your direction and his smile grew wide. You could see him whispering before a soft glow danced around his body, transforming his tail into two long, elegant legs.

“Hello, my love.” He spoke softly, taking a wobbly step so he could take up next to you. Even though he was not born with a tail, his legs are surprisingly long, meaning he towers over you, making you feel so small, but in the best way.

“I missed you.” your eyes never left his, almost ignoring the fact that the man before you was naked. His hand cupped your cheek, wiping his thumb against your skin. His heart was racing, wanting nothing more than to ravish you with desire. You were a perfect little plaything in his eyes, a toy for his own pleasure, and your obedience was also a plus. In a way, he was deeply infatuated with you.

“I missed you to Peaches.” His words made butterflies dance in your tummy. You had spent hours, days with this man and he still made you feel like it was the first time being with him. You couldn’t explain the pure dizziness and happiness you felt when he was around. But it’s always as if you were floating on a cloud and Seonghwa's voice lifted you higher and higher. “Let me show you how much I missed you…”

His breath tickled your ear, feeling his wet tongue lick the shell of your ear before he bit down lightly. Your hands fly to his shoulders, nails digging into his damp skin. His lisp travelled from your ear to your jaw, neck, and collarbone, leaving bite marks―not hickeys―but actual bite marks from his sharp teeth. He needed to taste you, taste the pleasure and excitement spilling out of you.

“Remember what I taught you last time Peach?” His voice became deep, hypnotizing. You nodded with a whimper, silently begging he would continue what he started. His eyes faded into a darker colouring, looking at you with complete lust and curiosity. “Say it…”

“Please take me, Mommy.”

Seonghwa’s eyes rolled back slightly, while he took a breath in. His hand, still against your cheek, moved down to your hip where the other sat. Pulling your body closer so you could feel his erection against your tummy. “God, you are so good... Such a great listener for Mommy.”

You were under his complete control, wanting to do whatever he pleased and he was living for it. His lips formed a smirk, staring down with sadistic, yet soft eyes. Hands clawed at your clothing, his long nails dug and ripped the fabric, letting the tattered pieces fall onto the sand that tangled between your feet. You watched him closely, as his snaked pupils dilated, tongue darting out of his mouth breathy almost looking at you like his prey.

“Pretty pirate getting soaked right in front of me.” His hushful voice danced in your ears making you feel like you were floating. He wasted no more seconds, latching his lips against your jugular, sucking a harsh, bright, and dark mark. Lapping over the mark, his tongue racked down your bare body. His hands grope your breast, pulling your body closer. You whine, raising your hands to rake them through his damp hair. “My pretty pirate.” He tugs you closer, making you almost step on your own feet.

“M-Mommy…” You begged for it, for his touch, his love. Fingers dancing over one another’s bodies, feeling hot flesh under your tips. His sharp shark-like teeth graze over your skin, creating goosebumps in their path. He could smell your arousal mixing with the salty sea air. It’s intoxicating.

“Don’t worry. Let me take care of you.” And with that he sealed his promise with a kiss, one filled with lust, hiding a small amount of passion underneath. Teeth clashed and moans were swallowed. A chuckle grew in his chest, slowly walking you towards him. Your eyes were closed, taking in his scent, the texture of his skin, the sound of his heartbeat. You were swimming. Swimming?

“H-Hwa?” You pulled away noticing your body from your waist was underwater. When did you walk into the water? Looking up at your lover you take in his gaze. It was cold, but your head felt like it was spinning, so the coldness didn’t alert you. The softness of his hands, the faint smile. He was pulling you more profoundly, but you felt no fear. His faint praises guided you, feeling your body begin to relax.

“Pretty, pretty pirate. You did so well. My perfect little pirate.” His words melted your heart, feeling the cold water surround you. His eyes weakened for a moment, feeling guilty. But as he watched you slowly submerge fully under the salt ocean, taking your last breath. He knew this was the only way. Cause, in the end, he was a siren and he can’t go against his nature.

- ♡

[munsonownsmyass]

Selkie! Tristan Thorn x reader

Summary: Having to move back home to help your grandfather as his health declines, your life changes forever when you meet a mysterious stranger.

Notes: This is my contribute for The Moon in May challenge and the word i chose for the first week was "shift".

Also thanks to @albatrossandivys for the idea and shoutout to @firefly-graphics for the beautiful dividers.

I had to make this an AU (and a modern one) for obvious reasons. Hope that's okay 🤣

Warnings: None? Talk of floods, ocean and seals, so maybe triggering for people with thalassophobia? Also some fluff.

Words: 2.3 K

You needed the break. Life had been so damn hard lately after the breakup that you just needed to escape. Disappear for a while. Everything back home reminded you of him, of the life that you no longer shared, so when your mother mentioned your grandparents needing help, you volunteered instantly.

The move had been easier than you thought, switching out your hectic life in Edinburgh for a quiet village on the shore. Your grandparents had lived there their whole lives, your grandfather managing the little lighthouse. Now that he had gotten sick, you had taken over much to his dismay.

But you did a good job and when you weren’t helping out at home, managing the lighthouse or reading, you often found yourself looking out over the sea. Captivated by the waves, the soothing sound finally giving your soul some much needed peace.

At the end of the day, just when the sun would start to set, you would walk along the shore. Listening to the waves gliding over the sand, feeling the breeze in your hair. You’d always loved the sea, been drawn to it for a long as you could remember.

Growing up, you had spent every summer here. Spent the days bathing in the sea, fishing by the pier. Some days you could even see the small colony of seals that lived here sunbathing on the rocks. They are still there today, curious heads breaking the surface, curious eyes following you.

Sitting down for a while, you watch them in the distance. The older seals snoozing as the young ones play, splashing in the surface. And then… there’s one of them, just standing stagnant in the water. Eyes and snout just above the surface, eyes fixed on you.

You recognize him immediately. He’s been around for as long as you have, a mere seal cub when you were a kid. He had special markings, they all did, so you could easily tell them apart. This one you call Bangs, because of the longer tuft of fur on his head. Very unusual for a seal, you’ve been told.

Actually never been up close with them, curiosity takes over and you slowly walk closer to the rocks near the pier, climbing them carefully. Bangs are still watching you, inching closer in the water as you struggle on the wet rocks. You lose your footing, falling down towards the cold water when suddenly everything goes black.

Waking up, you feel a throbbing pain in your forehead and… a hand on your cheek. Looking up, you see a man hovering over you, his hazel eyes looking at you in concern. You should be scared, screaming and wondering how you were completely alone on the beach a few minutes ago and now find yourself in the arms of the most beautiful man you’ve ever seen.

“Are you alright?” He asks, his soft voice enveloping you like a warm embrace. He helps you sit up, eyes never leaving yours.

“I-I guess…” You groan, your body aching. You probably hit more than just your head in the fall. And then it dawns on you. You could have drowned. If this stranger hadn’t come by, you could’ve…  You look into his eyes, hazel eyes so deep you could drown in them, and shiver.

“Thank you for saving me.” You say, voice almost breaking. His hand is still caressing your cheek, the motion so soothing. He just gives you a nod in return, his fingers slowly making their way down the column of you neck, stopping to inspect the silver chain that adorns your neck. You shiver under his gaze and his touch is so timid, so curious, that you don’t even question why this stranger has no apparent knowledge of personal space.

“Of course, Mo Ghráidh.” He counters softly, eyes again finding yours. It’s odd. Somehow, you feel like you know him, feeling weirdly at peace in his embrace. His… naked embrace.

You flinch back an inch, realizing he’s sitting naked before you. “You’re naked!”

“Well, yes. I suppose I am.” He looks down, smiling when his eyes return to yours. There’s a sweet innocence over him that you can’t help but love. Which is crazy! You don’t even know this man, besides him being your savior. A beautiful, sweet and naked stranger, but a stranger, nonetheless.

“Where did you even come from?” You smile, still not sure whether all of this is a dream and in a few minutes from now you’ll wave up gasping for your life in the water.

“Oh, I come from Wall.” He smiles gently, fingers playing with a strain of your hair.

“Wall?” You huff out, almost snorting. “That’s not possible.” Everyone had heard tales of Wall. A city in England, just on the other side of the border, which had been swallowed by the unforgiving waves of the ocean hundreds of years ago. Some say there’s still ruins down there today, though now its only sea creatures residing in them.

“Christ lassie! Are you okay?” You see your grandfather walk as fast as he can down the stairs to the beach. Behind you, the water slashes as something breaks the surface and when you turn, the mysterious stranger is gone.

“I saw you fall down the rock and hit your head.” He falls to his knees with a groan, inspecting the cut on the side of your head. “We need to get this checked.”

“Where did he go?” You ask, looking between your grandfather and the ocean. All that was left of your stranger, was his footprints in the sand, disappearing into the ocean.

“Who?���

“The man.” You touch a footprint before the waves wash up and remove the last trace of your encounter. “The man who saved me.”

“I didn’t see anyone, hen. Come on.”

With some difficulty you both get on your feet, making your way back to the house. As you reach the pier, you look back towards the sea and see Bangs looking at you, his little face barely above water. His kind eyes keeping an eye on you, never leaving his spot before you reach the house.

The next week you find yourself looking out over the ocean more than before, wondering if you could catch the stranger walking around on the beach. You had even borrowed some books at the local library about Wall, feeling silly as you skimmed through the pages as if they could give you an answer. When a few weeks had passed, you had given up hope of seeing him again, boiling it all down to the head trauma.

Distracted by some seal cups playing in the ocean, you barely notice the footsteps beside you, until someone sits down beside you. With a smile, you greet the stranger, relieved that he was in fact real and not just a figment of your imagination.

“Hello again.” He smiles softly, mimicking you by swinging his legs out over the pier, letting them dangle like yours. You instantly see that he is less naked this time, a pair of worn trousers hanging low on his hips.

“You’re not naked this time.” You say, seeing how his cheeks flush red.

“No. You… You didn’t seem to like it.”

“It’s not that I didn’t like it. You’re very han-” You stop, closing your book before looking at him again. “It didn’t bother me, but thanks.”

He looks down at your book, his fingers running along the spine, tracing the delicate letters. “What is it?”

“My book?” You question, smiling wide when you see his curious nod. You show him the front page, watching as his eyes go wide in wonder. “It’s Treasure Island.”

“It’s about the sea?” He looks at the cover, captured by the little pirate ship on the blue waters.

“No. Well, sort of.” You giggle softly, giving him the book to hold. “It’s about a young man named Jim Hawkins who finds a treasure map, so he goes on a journey to find it. On his journey he meets this pirate called Long John Silver.”

“Could… could you tell me the story?” He asks, his wide puppy like eyes staring into yours, making it impossible to say no. So that’s what you do. Over the next few days, you meet the stranger, who you’ve come to know as Tristan and read to him. Every day around sunset you sit on the pier, Tristan listening as you tell the tale. In between, he asks questions, and you ask yours in return.

There’s much you don’t know about him, but as the days go by you get closer to Tristan, feeling yourself drawn to him. Thinking about him when he’s not there. Such a kind and warm soul, his smile always brightening your days and the small fleeting touches sending shivers through you. You know you shouldn’t, but you feel yourself falling for him.

“You spend so much time looking out over the water, I’m fearing you’ll get lost in it.”

You tear your eyes away from the waves to find your grandfather standing next to you, leaning on the railing. For some time, you just stand there silently, listening to the waves.

“I just-” You start, but don’t even know what to tell him. That you meet Tristan every day and you believe he lives in the ocean? He’d have you admitted to a psych ward in no time. “Could you tell me about Wall again?”

“Hen, I’ve already-” He looks to you, seeing the quiet plea in your eyes. He just sighs, pointing out over the water. “Hundreds of years ago, there was no ocean here. Instead, just on the other side of the border, was the small town of Wall.”

“According to the stories, it was a wonderful place. But sadly, one day, the entire town was swallowed by the sea.” He pauses, nudging your shoulder before pointing over at the small colony of seals on the rocks. “Legend has it there was magic surrounding the place, turning all the inhabitants of Wall into Selkies.”

“Selkies?” You frown, looking at the seals. “So… seals?”

“No, no, Hen. A selkie is a creature that can shed its seal skin and become human.” He states, laughing when he sees the disbelief on your face. “Aye, it may be old folk tales, but stories of the selkies have been around for hundreds of years. They are rumored to be so beautiful in their human form, that we can’t resist them.”

He talks a little more, but you don’t hear a word. It couldn’t be real, could it? This had to be tales for children, dreamers. Your grandfather had always been a little superstitious, so you weren’t even that surprised that he’d believe something like this.

When he leaves you alone once more, you sit down on the pier, looking at the seals. Just below your feet, you see Bangs break the surface, his big eyes finding yours. With your grandfather’s tale still fresh in your memory, you just smile at Bangs.

“So tell me, Bangs… Are you really a selkie?” You giggle, feeling silly. But when you see him nod, you freeze. Wait, did he nod? No, you’re just imagining things. “Did you just nod?”

Raising his head just a little more above water, he nods again and… smiles at you? Okay, it’s official. You’ve lost your mind. You’re talking to a seal.

“Right… Okay…” You say as you get up and walk away, muttering under your breath how you must be tired and this is all just results of banging your head all those weeks ago. But at a large thud, you stop, feeling the wood vibrate under your feet.

You turn around to find Bangs on the pier, never truly realized just how big seals are. Or is it just him? Taking a few steps closer, you timidly close the distance to him. in the next second, he rises to his feet and if it weren’t for the railing, you would have fallen into the sea again.

Gently, like shedding a coat, the beautiful grey fur falls away, making way for human skin. There in front of, naked as the first time you met him, is Tristan with a pile of seal fur at his feet. If you hadn’t just witnessed it yourself, you’d have thought you had gone mad. Well, maybe you had.

“Y-you’re a-a selkie?” you stutter, frozen in place. Tristan just smiles, stepping closer to you, leaving the seal skin behind him.

“Yes. Please don’t run away.” He steps closer, gently taking your hand in his. His beautiful hazel eyes find yours as he closes the distance further, cupping your cheek with a tenderness that makes you shiver.

“I’ve wanted to tell you for years, but I was afraid you’d never speak to me again.”

You reach out to touch him with trembling fingers, your hand lands on his chest. Somehow, you still need to feel him to know he’s real.

“I’ve watched over you for years, missing you when you weren’t here.” His free hand reach for a loose strain of your hair, tugging it gently behind your ear. “Waiting for the day I was brave enough to tell you.”

And it’s true. For a long as you can remember, he has been there. Always watching on the rocks, swimming playfully by your side whenever you’ve ventured into the ocean. Like a guardian angel, making sure you were safe.

“Would… Would it be okay if I kissed you?” He asks nervously, almost as if he expects you to say no. And you should, because of what he is. There are a million questions in your mind about how you could make this work, but every thought is drowned out as he looks into your eyes.

The whispered ‘yes’ barely leaves your lips before he kisses you, the touch of his lips as sweet as him. But the sweetness soon gives way to a hunger like you’ve never known before. Tristan has ignited something in you, a fire only he can soothe. And just like that your fate is sealed.

Tagging: @itwasthereaminuteago @e-dubbc11 @mattmurdocksscars @lavenderursa @yarrystyleeza

[miracle-in-hawaii]

Chapter 1 ★ Isle Unto Thyself

The military Cargo ship docked itself at the harbor nearby the Hawaiian Coast guard base, full of willing soldiers, sailors, and supplies. Simon stepped off board, taking orders from his Sargent as he moved into the base with his fellow comrades. after hours of straining, moving cargo to the load out, Simon was able to sneak away to the nearest town to explore the local life more. he ventured through the brush and found himself at a coastline town not too far from the base. Simons first instinct was to go to the beach, considering he'd get there by sunset. but it was worth it for some peace.

the sound of crashing waves and dancing tree leaves filled the air as Simon walked barefoot on the sand. he was still in uniform, having nothing to change out of it. Simon was a pale white guy, with dark wavy brown hair and kind blue eyes. he was surely a sight to see to the locals, considering in these times with the situation of war across seas. Simon sat down near the water as he let the waves wash over him, soaking his uniform with the salty clear water. the sunset was beautiful when a drill Sargent wasn't barking orders into your ear. Simon had a sense of beauty, an appreciation to find emotion in the simplest things like the water, the orange pink hues of the sunset, and the smell of salt in the air. Simon drank it all in, like a ice cold glass of water to a decaying man in the desert. he was glad he came to Hawaii.

Simon felt another person seat themselves in the damp sand next to him. his body tensed up as he was too scared to look over, in case one of his mates had found him out. "Simon... Marvin?" a woman's voice spoke, letting out a soft giggle towards his name. "two first names as a last name sure is something." she laughed out. Simon was confused as he looked over at her, giving a bit of a dumbfounded expression. who was this mysterious woman? she had long, dark brown hair that flowed in the wind. her skin was a native tanned, and her eyes. gosh. her eyes were a crystal grey. but that begs the question, how did she know his name? that's when Simon realized she could read his name tag on his chest. he cleared his throat, breaking from his trance as he spoke up for himself. "well, what's your name?" he asked her in retaliation, not taking kindly to his name being laughed at. even if the most graceful woman just sat next to him. but Simon already gets enough teasing from his coworkers. the woman pulled her hair into a bun as she couldn't help but giggle more. "hey, no need to get so defensive. I just think it's cute. my names Stella Octangula, if that makes you feel any better." Stella said, a smile creeping up on her lips as she held her hand out to Simon. Simon hesitantly shook her hand. "p-pleasure to meet you, Stella." Simon stammered, before realizing Stella didn't let his hand go.

"wanna see something cool?" Stella spoke, standing up as she pulled him up with her. Simon felt his face flush red as his rough, calloused hand grasped her soft gentle one. Stella began to walk further into the water after Simon nodded in agreement, allowing her to take him. Simon hesitantly followed, well she dragged him along, but he was scared of stepping on something he wasn't supposed to without his shoes. however as he watched over his feet, that's when he noticed she was as barefoot as he was. yet she walked so confidently, like she knows she'll never be hurt out here. "what are you gonna show me?" he asked, curiosity getting the best of him. Stella pressed a finger against his lips, silencing Simon. "just wait." she urged. the waves were lapping over their legs, soaking her rainbow weaved dress and his camouflage pants. when the sun had fully set, sinking under the water until the sky was a dark blue, that's when Simon started to notice the water. with each crashing wave, it glowed a bioluminescent blue. Simon gasped in amazement, scooping up the glowing water in his hands. "gosh.... this is cool!" Simon exclaimed as he crouched down into the water further and splashed, seeing the glowing droplets land in the water ahead of them and dispersing out before fading into the black sea. Stella couldn't help but laugh, she's never seen someone so playful and curious before. like a child discovering something new. it was beautiful. "this is a glowing algae. under the right conditions, it grows here. you can only notice it at night. pretty amazing." Stella informed Simon. he couldn't help but chuckle as he stood up. "wow... this... this is amazing. you, you're amazing Stella."

Epilogue

[lou-struck]

Seaside Bed and Breakfast

Satan x Gn MC!

~ Even Satan, The Avatar of Wrath deserves a coastal getaway at a cute bed and breakfast by the ocean.

~This is one of the requested prompts for the “I Want to Getaway Event” Thank you so much for requesting Nonnie, I had a lot of fun with this one.

The distant calling of Sea Birds pulls you from the best sleep you’ve had in months. Turning over in the soft linen sheets, you notice that Satan isn’t next to you. His side of the bed is perfectly made, and his book all the nightstand is nowhere to be seen.

 Rolling over on your back you watch the ceiling fan slowly spin above you as you let out a little huff and shake your head. A happy smile spreads across your face. Of course, he would be up before you, ever since the two of you decided to pop back into the human world for a quick weekend getaway, Satan has been talking nonstop about finally getting to relax and read by the ocean with you.

A couple of days of R&R sounds absolutely heavenly to you as well so you chose a beautiful historic bed and breakfast located on a grassy hilltop overlooking the shoreline below.

Quickly getting changed, you walked down the hallway feeling a bit relieved that the other patrons of the bed-and-breakfast are still either asleep or in their rooms, but you have an idea of where your boyfriend is.

Opening the glass French doors to the back patio overlooking the Cliffside, your eyes rest on a familiar blonde head buried deep in a book. The smell of sea salt in the breeze is better than any perfume or candle you’ve ever had, if you could bottle the scent and take it with you forever you would. 

Padding across the faded birch you’re able to sneak up on the demon just enough to wrap your arms around him and prop your head on his shoulder. “ how’s the book?“ you hum as his blue/green eyes light up when they see your still sleet face.

“It’s great,” he answers turning his neck to press a soft kiss to your lips. “Good morning MC.”

“Good morning Satan.” You say, as he places a bookmark in between the pages and shuts the cover. “That’s not the book you brought.”

“I already finished it,” he laughs holding up the book you recognized from his library. “Nan, let me borrow this earlier when she asked if I wanted some tea.”

“She must like you,” you laugh as you join him on the sofa. Nan is the owner of the Bed and Breakfast, she is an absolutely adorable old woman who wears baggy sweaters that are bigger than she is. She and her husband renovated this house many years ago and have been running it as a Bed and Breakfast ever since. 

“ do you still want to go and walk along the beach later?” He asks wrapping an arm around you lazily.

“ I do, the sand is so soft you don’t even need your shoes.“ you say looking down at the water below crashing up against some rocks. “ there’s also an old lighthouse we can climb.”

“That sounds wonderful,” he says “ we should go after breakfast.”

As if on cue your stomach begins to growl something fierce. “I think Breakfast sounds like a great idea.” 

as you laugh, the smell of cinnamon and vanilla wafts through the open window.

“ Nan said that she was making cinnamon rolls for breakfast.” He says turning his head towards the smell. “Don't they smell good?”

“I’m getting jealous Satan, are you going to leave me for her?” You tease ruffling his wavy blond hair as he tries to bat your hands away playfully.

“If it means I can stay here forever, I might.” He jokes before looking out at the world around you. 

“It’s beautiful here,” you say softly. Admiring the way the wind tickles the long grass and makes the waves below shimmer and dance under the still rising sun. You let out a sigh“ imagine waking up to this every day.”

“ There’s something else I wouldn’t mind waking up to every day,” he says.

“What is it? Is it Nan?” You say as he shakes his head.

His hand comes up and cups your cheek, “you know it’s you“

“ I feel the same way.” You say Play saying your hand over the one on your face. 

The two of you stay enthralled by the light in each other's eyes until you hear the chiming of the rustic grandfather clock in the hallway signaling that breakfast is ready to be served.

The cinnamon rolls are warm gooey and sweet making your stomach feel full and happy, but as the two of you walk hand in hand along the beach, you decided that nothing compares to the way you feel when seeing your Boyfriend, Satan; the Avatar of wrath with his toes in the sand. Finally feeling at peace on a well-deserved vacation.

[hide-in-imagination]

Cruel Summer | Simbar Fic

-*Simón and Ámbar spent the summer in Cancún after the Roda Fest— That much is known. What no one knows is what happened during that summer.

This is a could've been. A glimpse into a moment lost in time.*-

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

New year, new multichapter! Hello, everyone. This is a project I've been working on for about three years now and I've finally decided to share it. It'll be four or five chapters, they're already drafted and halfway done, so I'll be posting this story along with Roads That Cross whenever I have the time. I'm hoping I can post all of it by the end of this year, 2023. Fingers crossed! Without further ado, I leave you with chapter 1. Hope you like it. — ☾

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1. Fever dream high in the quiet of the night…

The sea breeze hit Simón’s face as he walked down the beach. The sun had set recently, turning the clear, turquoise color of the water in Cancún into a dark blue. It was probably time he returned home, he thought. But the salty scent, the softness of the sand under his feet; all of it was like a part of him and it made him feel whole.

He needed that feeling.

He had lost count of the number of times he had volunteered to take the dog out for a walk these past days just so he could breathe in the sea. It was nice, but it always ended the same way.

With a sigh, Simón rubbed the sand off his feet and put on the shoes he had been carrying in his hands. Staying here until late wasn’t going to help. If it could, it would’ve done so by now.   

He shoved his hands into the pockets of his shorts and gave one last long look at the waves, willing their sound to drown his thoughts. He was turning around to leave when he caught sight of something. No, not something— Someone.

The skip of his heart wasn’t something he could help or control. It had followed him around all summer, every time she was even mentioned, every time some seller by the coast offered handcrafted jewelry made of the semi-precious stone.

Ámbar.

Seeing her was a rare occurrence these days, and so much worse than just having to deal with the memories in his mind. She was walking in his direction, her gaze down, focused on how the breaking waves skirted close to her sandals and then retreated, never touching. Much of her skin was bare, covered only by a bikini as black as the night sky and short denim shorts. Her blond hair was loose and fluttering wildly from the wind. Her hand reached up to move it out of her face, and Simón remembered when it was him who did that.

That was then. Now was now.

When she saw him, she stopped in her tracks, clearly as taken aback as him. They looked at each other for a moment, then she turned to face the sea, her back straight, chin high. Her whole posture sent the message to just ignore her and keep going on his way.

Simón wanted to do just that ever since the moment he saw her. After all, they had managed to avoid each other for weeks now— They could keep doing it. But something pushed him to come closer instead. Maybe the exact same part of him that wanted to flee.

When he stood next to her, she made no sign of sensing his presence. He watched her profile, her gaze stubbornly fixed on the horizon.  

“You shouldn’t be here alone this late.”

His words were only met with stoic silence.

His eyes stared at her on their own accord. There was a lot of exposed skin he wasn’t used to seeing; he tried to ignore that. What he could not ignore, however, were the goosebumps on her arms—And everywhere he looked, now that he was paying attention. Being in the tropic, Cancún was always warm, but in winter, at night, and right next to the sea breeze, the temperature was as low as it could be.

“You look cold,” he told her, but got no response. “Do you want my hoodie?” He offered, bringing his hands to its open front to take it off.

“No,” Ámbar spat.

It was the first word she had said to him in weeks.   

Simón hesitated, seeing small shivers in her body. “But the wind is blowing strong and you’re—”

“What the fuck do you care?”

Her snap made him startle. His chest hurt— A quick pain that just as quickly turned bitter. He shouldn’t be surprised. This wasn’t the Ámbar he’d spent afternoons skating and talking with. This wasn’t the sweet person he thought he knew. And even if she was, even if any of it was real, it was all too wrapped up in lies and revenges and heartbreak for it to mean anything positive in his life.

God, what am I doing?

Simón clenched his jaw, smoothing his expression; he refused to keep looking like a fool. “You know what? You’re right. Forget it.”

He turned around, stomping through the sand in the direction of his house. He looked back after a moment, expecting to see her walking away as well, but she was still there, staring at the waves.

Who the hell cares. I try to be nice and she barks at me. Serves her right.

Simón kept walking. He could see some people far ahead walking along the beach too, apparently a family. He heard some loud voices and laughs to his right, coming from one of the shops on the sidewalk. It sounded like a group of guys, either drunk or getting there. He couldn’t tell from this distance if they were locals or tourists.

He looked back again. Ámbar was still where he left her, except sitting on the sand now.

Her house is not that far, she can walk. Not a big deal.

He walked a little more. Stopped. Turned.

Ámbar was curled up in the sand, her legs up to her chin as she hugged them. Even from this far he could tell she was shaking.

Oh god freaking damn it.

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

One second Ámbar was looking at the waves touching the shore, and the next, she felt a material collide against her right side, momentarily blinding her as some of it covered her face.

“You can throw it in the trash later if you hate it so much, but don’t freeze to death.”

By the time she pulled the fabric out of her eyes, confirming it was indeed Simón’s pale yellow hoodie, he had already turned and was walking away to where he came from.

A fire, dark and feral, burned in her chest. That was what he always did— Turn his back to her.

She crumpled the hoodie into a ball and threw it at him. It hit his back before falling to the sand.

“I don’t want anything from you.”

He turned around like a storm.

“Why are you being so damn difficult?!” He exclaimed, picking up the spurned hoodie from the sand. “I’m trying to be nice here, even though I have no reason to be, and you still reject my help!”

Ámbar stood with her arms crossed in front of her chest, staring him down. A small, mirthless smile graced her lips. “Sorry, that’s just how we people full of hate are. Nothing personal.”

Simón felt a jab in his heart at hearing his words thrown back at him. Guilt, regret, sadness— All three hit him like a slap, but he squished the sensation. He was not the one who did things wrong. He was not the one who lied. He was not the one constantly looking for ways to hurt someone— Like she was doing right now, telling him this to make him feel guilty, to make him feel even more miserable than he already was.

He rubbed a hand down his face.

“Just put it on, okay?” He asked her, extending her the hoodie.

“No. Leave me alone.”

Simón took a deep breath.

“Ámbar, you’re freezing, and you’re barely wearing anything more than a swimsuit, at night, alone, in a foreign country,” he stated pointedly, appealing to her good judgment. “The walk to your house is still many minutes long, and I don’t see that you have any money on you or your phone to call a car—Which, by the way, is very irresponsible of you. Now, do you want to die of hypothermia just to prove a point, or are you going to take my hoodie and live to hate me another day?”

Ámbar looked at the hoodie for a second. Then she turned her head toward the waves, her murmur barely audible over their sound. 

“What if I rather freeze?”

Simón did a double take. She can’t be serious.

“I’ll put it on by force if I have to— Why are you being like this?!” He exclaimed, no longer able to contain his frustration.

“Why are you being like this?!” She volleyed back, bringing her fuming gaze back to him. “You don’t care about me, you made it very clear that you hate me, so why are you insisting so much?”

“Maybe because I have a heart and I can’t just see someone like this and do nothing?”

“I don’t want your pity,” she seethed.

Ámbar passed by him and began to walk towards the sidewalk. She had seen enough pity in the eyes of everyone in the last few days—

‘We’re sorry that Sharon lied to you like that.’

‘Luna might be Sol, but you’re still my granddaughter.’

—She didn’t need any more of that; especially from him.

Deep down, she knew she was being unreasonable. That the mature thing to do would be to just accept the damn hoodie and carry on with her life. But she had this instinct— this need— to preserve the last shred of dignity she still had left. After the way the two of them had left things, Ámbar wanted him gone from her life, she wanted him as far as possible.

It wasn’t that cold. She’d probably warm up if she jogged a little or something. She just had to get away from the sea breeze. From him. Very far from him until it didn’t hurt anymore.

But no, of course he wouldn’t give her that. She could hear his footsteps on the sand as he followed her, probably eager to deepen some wound, just as he had to go gloat in front of her after Luna won the Glass Skate.

And then people said she was the cruel one. That she was insensitive.

Fuck them and fuck him.

Simón tried to call out to Ámbar, but she kept walking away from him. Just let her go, a part of him said. But he couldn’t do that.

“Ámbar, please! I—” He stopped and squeezed his eyes shut, cursing himself inside. “It’s not pity, I’m just… an idiot.”

Some steps ahead, Ámbar stopped, gathering she hadn’t heard that right. She turned slowly and looked at him, frowning.

“What?”

He seemed reluctant to meet her gaze, reluctant to even speak further, but he let out a sigh and did.  

“I’m stupid. I really, really am because, you lied to me, you broke my heart— By all means I should hate you but… I still care about you.”

Ámbar was sure this time that she had heard him wrong. He couldn’t really mean that. But the way he averted his gaze, as if embarrassed, said otherwise.

She was stunned.   

“So, as you can see, I’m the biggest idiot on this planet,” he said dejectedly. “Now, can you please just put the hoodie on?”

Simón extended his hand with his eyes lowered. He wanted to save himself the humiliation of seeing the smugness on her face after what he had just confessed. He hated himself for it. He hated to give her that satisfaction, but he couldn’t help the way he felt, and he had given up trying. He had spent all these days in Cancún trying not to think about her and it hadn’t worked. So, he had just accepted the fact that he was pathetic and carried on with his life.

Honestly, the whole current situation was pathetic. Ámbar was the one with the problem and yet, somehow, he was the one begging her to let him help.

He could almost hate her for it. Except, as he had already established, he wasn’t capable of it.

If she rejected his help this time as well though, that was it, he wasn’t going to insist anymore. He had at least some pride and self-love left. He could maybe call Miguel or something to send a car here and that way he could make sure she’d be okay without getting involved any further. In fact, that was probably what he should’ve done in the first place instead of walking back here. Why was he even—

She took it. She took the hoodie.

Simón lifted his gaze.

Ámbar slid her arms inside the hoodie, feeling his eyes on her. She pulled the zipper up to her chin and dug her frozen hands into the pockets.

The first thing she noticed was the warmth. Her body sighed as the fabric enveloped her, automatically feeling better. The second thing she noticed was that it smelled like him. It was quite obvious it would, he had been wearing it, but somehow having his smell surround her after not feeling it in so long was as much a shock to her system as the warmth against her cold body.  

“Thank you,” she said, sinking herself as much as possible under the soft cotton. It was the least she could say, and the only thing she felt comfortable saying.   

Simón observed her. The hoodie looked big on her, the sleeves drowning her hands and the length falling down to her thighs. It was just long enough to cover the shorts she was wearing, making it look as if she had nothing underneath.

His treacherous heart jumped against his ribcage. He shouldn’t be looking at her that way. Seeing her in his clothes shouldn’t please him so much.

He gulped and nodded slowly. “You’re welcome.”

She crossed her arms to hug herself against the cold, and the movement drew his attention to her chest. He turned away quickly.

“Come on, I’ll walk you to your house,” he said, and if his voice sounded a tiny bit different than a moment ago, he counted on the sea sounds to cover it.

He was aware of the fact that just a minute ago he was going to leave her alone, but after giving her just one real look, there was no way he could do that. The hoodie served as a solution for one problem but not the other. If his mind had wandered, he knew others would too, and there was no way in hell he was going to leave her alone, walking at night, for some depraved man to harass her or worse— He’d rather die.    

“I don’t wanna go there.”

Halting in his step, Simón turned to find that, indeed, Ámbar hadn’t moved from her spot. 

He frowned. “Why not?”

She averted her gaze. “I just don’t.”

That wasn’t an answer, but he guessed he had no right to push it, so he just went along with it.  

“Do you have anywhere else to stay?”

Ámbar considered it. “Emilia could take me in.”

Simón’s face contorted in disbelief. “Emilia? Are you really that close to that girl now?”

“No, but I prefer her.”

Why?

Simón wanted to ask but he suspected she wasn’t going to answer. He didn’t like the idea of Ámbar hanging out with that girl. Didn’t like it at all.

But that doesn’t concern you. Not anymore.

“Well, where does she live?” He asked her, swallowing his unease.    

Ámbar seemed to think about it. “I’m not sure,” she admitted reluctantly. “I think I’d recognize the general area if I saw it, but I have no idea where that is.”

“Well, do you know her number? We can call her from my phone,” he offered.

“I don’t know it by memory, I need my phone.”

“Okay, and where’s your phone?”

“…At the house.”

Simón let out an exasperated sigh. “Let’s go to your house then.”

He started walking, just as he had one minute ago. Thankfully, Ámbar didn’t protest this time and just followed along, walking slightly behind him.  

“Why did you leave your stuff there anyway?” Simón asked after a moment.

“I kinda left in a hurry and forgot to grab my things. I wasn’t supposed to walk that far either, I just lost track of time.”

Their steps on the sand filled the silence along with the faraway voices of people in the city.

“Why didn’t you go back to get your things?” He asked. “Why do you still don’t want to go back? It’s your house.”

“Summer house.”

“Same thing.”

Ámbar didn’t say anything. She kept staring ahead, avoiding his gaze, and for a long minute, they walked like that, in silence. She clearly didn’t want to answer his questions; she refused to open up to him at all.

He couldn’t blame her; he felt the same way. It was completely understandable after everything that happened. And he should’ve been okay with that. He should’ve been able to just leave it alone. But…  

Simón stood in front of her, forcing her to a halt.

“Okay.” He offered her his hand. “Truce.”

Ámbar looked at him confusedly.

“What?”

“I said ‘Truce’. I forget for the rest of our walk how you lied to me, and you forget for the rest of our walk how mad you are at me. Deal?”

She stared at him and his outstretched hand long and hard. Her expression showed what they both knew; they couldn’t forget, not really. What had transpired between them had left a mark on both of them that wasn’t easy to ignore. She looked at him with apprehension, seemingly trying to figure out his angle, what his objective was, what he wanted to gain from a deal like this.

Simón wished there were anything to be gained. He wished any of this was in any way good for him. He wished he could convince himself to stay away.

But he was worried. Against all his better judgment and the bitter part of him that said whatever was going on with her served her right— His need to do something about it was stronger.

He had already let that petty part of him win once, when he went to see her in the dressing room after the Roda Fest. He thought he’d feel better after that. He didn’t. He thought if he did the complete opposite of comforting her, what he wanted to do deep down, he’d be able to drown that urge once and for all. He couldn’t.

Ámbar wanted to laugh scornfully at his face. You want me to forget how you told me to go fuck myself? She wanted to say. You want me to forget how I humiliated myself for you and you didn’t care at all?

But he looked honest. He really seemed willing to do it, and she didn’t understand why. If I hurt him so much, why is he doing this?

The truth of the matter was, even after everything, she never did understand him. She thought she did, but that illusion broke as easily and as fast as that dressing room’s mirror.

With this truce he was basically asking her to trust him again, even if only for a short time. Could she do that? She didn’t really want to. Scratch that— She definitely didn’t want to. She hated the sole idea; last time had ended in disaster.

But if it meant that, for just some minutes, for just one moment, he would trust her again…

You’re not the only one who’s an idiot, Simón.

Slowly, Ámbar raised her hand.

“Well, since I’ll have to put up with you anyway…” She said with detachment. She gave his hand the shortest of shakes, not wanting the touch to linger for too long. It’d just be another thing she’d miss later if she let herself have it again.

Both resumed their walk. Simón immediately spoke again, his tone gentle.   

“Okay. Now, tell me, what’s wrong with that house?” He asked her. His eyes were inviting as he looked at her. It was almost how he used to look at her before, when they were friends and he consoled her.

Were we ever just friends though?

Ámbar pushed the memories away. Nothing was as before anymore. It would never be like that again. All she could do was answer honestly. At least he deserved that much.   

“There’s nothing wrong with the house itself, it’s the people in it.”

He stopped short.

“If you’re just going to complain about Luna, let me tell you right now that I won’t—”

She rolled her eyes. “It’s not just that!”

Great, they had lasted five seconds without fighting. Why did she think it’d be different?

“Not just that?” Simón volleyed back with indignation. “What has Luna even done to you?”

She raised her brows and gave him a look. “Do you want me to make a list?”

He tossed his hands up and dropped them, starting to walk again. “Enlighten me.”

Ámbar put up a finger as she moved to fall in step with him. “First, she invaded my house.”

“That was not her decision, she had to move with her parents,” he retorted quickly.   

She put up a second finger. “Then, she invaded my school.”

“Again, not her decision.”

“Then, she stole my boyfriend.”

“That—” He closed his mouth before starting again. “Matteo was the one who went after her.”

She glared at him. “I’m quite aware of that fact, thank you for reminding me.”

Simón winced. He guessed it must not have been nice to watch her boyfriend pursuing another girl. Matteo wasn’t even subtle in his interest in Luna.

“It doesn’t erase the fact that if she hadn’t arrived, Matteo wouldn’t have done that,” Ámbar continued.   

“Well, if anything, it shows the kind of person Matteo is, not Luna,” Simón argued. “She only started dating him when you two had broken up for good.”

“Yeah, yeah, she’s a saint.” Ámbar rolled her eyes and counted more. “She also invaded my rink, stole my spot on the team, brainwashed everyone so they would love her, invaded my stage—”

“Luna has loved rollerskating since I know her. Of course she was going to go to the Jam & Roller, that place was like paradise for her. And she needed a place like that if she was going to be in a completely different country with completely different people. It’s not easy to just jump on a plane and start your life anew in a new place you’ve never known before, surrounded by strangers. So excuse her if she started making friends and participating in stuff. It was her way to fit in and get along with everyone. Otherwise, she would’ve been alone.”

The bite in his voice made Ámbar pause. Somehow, throughout his speech, she felt like Simón had stopped talking about just Luna. The tightness in his jaw, the way his gaze had focused on the road ahead instead of her… Yeah, this wasn’t just about Luna.

Suddenly, she realized that Simón had been pretty much in the same situation as Luna. He had arrived in a new country and stayed at her house (albeit secretly), had started frequenting the Jam & Roller and joined her skating team… The only difference was that he hadn’t enrolled in her school.

But while Luna had her parents, Simón didn’t have anyone when he arrived. Except for Luna. Luna who chose Matteo.

Why hadn’t she realized all of this before?

Because he never showed he was anything but alright.

Sure, everyone could see the kicked puppy eyes he threw Luna’s way, but other than that heartbreak, he was always all smiles and excited energy.

Just how lonely had he been?

Simón returned his gaze back to Ámbar. Many seconds had passed, and she still hadn’t screamed at him to stop defending Luna or something like that as he had expected her to do. His eyes connected with hers for an instant, but she quickly looked away, setting her gaze on her feet as she remained quiet.  

“What, that’s it? That was your list?” He couldn’t help but ask. Maybe it was bitter of him, but he was just so tired of Ámbar’s bad blood with Luna, especially when Luna had never done anything to deserve it. Excluding the Matteo thing, all her reasons to hate her were so damn superficial he felt like shaking her. It was unfair and ridiculous.

“Or what are you gonna tell me now? That Luna made Tamara leave?” He said with irony when the silence continued. “That she brought Juliana to the Roller? She made winter colder? Made split ends appear in your hair?”

“She made my godmother leave.”

Simón’s feet slowly came to a stop. All humor and annoyance drained from him as he watched her.  

“Ámbar…”

“I know,” she said, looking away. “You don’t need to tell me.”

She knew what her godmother had done was wrong and probably illegal. She didn’t need to be reminded of that whole mess. She spent every day trying to forget how she’d just left with barely a goodbye to her.

“Do you know where she is?” Simón asked after a pause, his tone gentle. It was mostly out of curiosity really, and because he could sense this was an important topic for her, a painful one.

“No,” Ámbar replied. “She hasn’t contacted me since— and even if I knew, I wouldn’t tell you,” she said curtly, her eyes fiery as they met his. “You would probably run to tell the Valentes and they would call the cops on her to get her arrested.”

Simón swallowed the jab in his heart at seeing the distrust in her gaze. The spark of anger, the cloud of sorrow…

So this is what we’ve come to…   

“Ámbar, I don’t think they would do that,” he replied, focusing on them instead of him, even when what he really wanted to say was that he wouldn’t do that to her.   

“No?” She lifted her eyebrows with incredulity. “And what do you suppose they’d do? Sit down to have a nice quiet dinner with her and reminisce about old times?”

“Of course not,” he retorted, a little annoyed at her ironic tone. “What she did was wrong; she tried to keep Luna from finding out who she is, from reuniting with her grandfather and getting what’s rightfully hers. But she’s still family,” he said. “I don’t think Mr. Alfredo wishes her harm. I think he even misses her.”

Ámbar snorted sarcastically and averted her gaze. “No one in that house misses her.”

Simón observed her— Her crossed arms, her grim expression, her eyes looking at nothing.   

“… You miss her. Don’t you?”  

Ámbar flinched and turned further away from him, facing the waves instead.

“I’m mad at her,” she replied, her voice sharp and filled with resentment. “She lied to me. She told me I was Sol Benson, made me believe that, and then when everything came crashing down, she just ran away. She abandoned me.”

And yet you still miss her.

Simón could relate to that. Missing something, someone, even though you know it’s not good for you.

“… Well, what could she do?” He said. “Aside from facing the consequences of her actions, of course. It’s not like she could’ve taken you with her if she was going to be on the run.”

“I would’ve gone with her,” Ámbar said immediately.

That was what she had wanted. She wanted to be away from here, from Buenos Aires, from everything. She wanted to leave her past behind and start anew with her godmother somewhere else where there would be no Lunas, no Valentes, no heartbreaks. She had spent all these days in Cancún thinking that it would’ve been better if Sharon had just taken her with her.

Simón didn’t seem to agree though.

“Ámbar, that’s crazy!” He said, positively looking at her as if she had lost her mind. “You don’t know what she would’ve done to you. You said it yourself, she lied to you about who you are! And you don’t know where she would’ve taken you. Your whole life is here. Your family’s here, your friends are here—”

“Family?” She turned to him. “Friends? I have no one, Simón!” She exclaimed, feeling the cracks inside of her grow bigger. That sad truth that had been hunting her for weeks. “My godmother abandoned me. Alfredo doesn’t even know I exist anymore. Ever since he found out that Luna is the real Sol Benson, he totally forgot about me. The Valentes aren’t my family, Luna definitely isn’t my family nor do I want her to be, and everyone who used to be my friend turned their backs on me.”

“Well, that one was your fault, if you hadn’t burned down the rink—”

“IT WAS AN ACCIDENT!!!”

Simón flinched back, staring at her wide-eyed.

But Ámbar didn’t care if she looked crazy, she didn’t care if she scared him, she didn’t care what he thought— She was done with everything.

“How many times do I have to say that until SOMEONE believes me?! No— You know what? Forget it. Whatever!” She threw her arms to the sky. “You wanna believe I’m an arsonist? Perfect, go ahead. You wanna believe I purposely burned down the only place in which I’ve ever felt like I’m worth something? Be my fucking guest. A fuck ton of other shit that I did do and I admit, but of course everyone would hate me for the one thing I didn’t mean to do! It’s just my fucking luck.”

“Ámba—”

“And I guess it’s also my fault that I’m not Sol Benson. I should’ve just been born out of Bernie and Lily, how silly of me to have been born out of some stupid teenage girl who never heard of what a freaking condom was and gave me up to Sharon because she didn’t have a penny to raise me!” She advanced towards him, making Simón take a step back. “You don’t wanna believe the fire was an accident? I WAS A FUCKING ACCIDENT! MY WHOLE FUCKING LIFE WAS A FUCKING ACCIDENT! IF THE WORLD GOT ITS WAY, I WOULDN’T EVEN HAVE BEEN BORN. HOW HAPPY EVERYONE WOULD’VE BEEN THEN, RIGHT?!”

She shoved against his shoulder and sprinted away, leaving Simón stunned. His mind was reeling, his heart pounding. He couldn’t process everything.

But his body reacted. He ran after her without thinking, because he didn’t need to think it through— He just had to do one thing.

Catch her.

“Ámbar!”

He caught her arm, forcing her to stop.

“Let me go,” she said, trying to pull her arm free but he held on to her wrist tightly. He pulled her toward him and she started fighting, trying to break free with all her might. “I said let me go, Simón!”

Simón brought his other arm around her and pressed her against him firmly. “I’m not going to let you go."

Ámbar continued to struggle, trying to break away to no avail.

“Let me go!” She yelled in distress, smacking and pushing him with her free hand. “I hate you! I hate everyone! I hate-e—”  

Her voice broke, and with it, all her will to fight.

Ámbar dug her face on his chest and her fingers clutched the material of his tank top as a loud wail tore out her throat and she burst into tears.

Simón let go of her wrist and wrapped both arms around her, holding her as her body shook with sobs and his skin got damped from her crying. Ámbar’s arms slid around him and Simón felt her cling to him just as hard as she had tried to pull away before.

It was a cry filled with anguish; loud and desperate. Tears gathered in Simón’s own eyes. Every little sound that came out of Ámbar’s throat seemed to tear him apart.

“Shhh… Easy, bonita, easy,” he murmured, caressing her back softly as his other hand cradled her head. “I don’t ever want to hear you say anything like that again, okay? I don’t want you to think it either. No one would be happier without you, Ámbar. Mr. Alfredo loves you like a grandchild, I know he does. He mentions you a lot. You’re not there to hear it, but I have. He worries about you being out of the house so much.”

A hard sob made Simón hold her tighter, wishing he could extinguish her pain with his arms.

“Delfi and Jazmín are angry right now but I’m sure they don’t hate you. You’ve been friends for years, that doesn’t go away from one day to another. The rest of the guys are mad too but I’m sure they would forgive you if you apologize. Mónica and Miguel could be your family if you let them. Hell— even Luna wouldn’t be happier without you, Ámbar. Who’d compete with her, huh? Who is a better skater than you, a better singer than you, to push her to be better? I know she annoys you, but I think she pushes you to be better too, doesn’t she?”

Gradually, Ámbar’s crying was easing down. Simón gently caressed her hair, beckoning calm to come back. “I’m sure your mom loves you as well.” He felt her tense up, but he kept going, knowing she needed to hear this. “That’s why she gave you to Sharon. She wanted you to have a better life; a good one. I’m sure she doesn’t regret having you. I mean, a girl as talented as you? Who could regret that?”

Ámbar let out a couple more sobs and then they left her, leaving just ragged breaths in their place that shook her from time to time. Simón could feel her breath against his skin, warm as the tears she spilled, but they became fewer and fewer. Her hands slid down his back, and it was like they pulled the words out of his mouth before he could think if he should say them or not.

“And I don’t regret meeting you. I don’t regret skating with you, singing with you, falling for you… even after everything that happened. So, please, don’t say those things, Ámbar.”

Finally, after what felt like a shredder to his very soul, Ámbar calmed down. Her chest rose and fell steadily against his and no more tears fell down. They stayed like that for a while— how long, Simón did not know, only that by the end of it their breathings seemed to have synchronized. Slowly, Ámbar started pulling away, and Simón felt the sudden, irrational urge to bring her back into his arms and keep her there forever, but he reigned it in and let her go.

Ámbar wiped at her eyes and sniffed, erasing the leftovers of her crying as much as she could, but there was nothing she could do about her reddened eyes. Looking at her, Simón felt a need to protect so strong that it hurt.

“Are you feeling better?” He asked her softly, hoping that the shake he felt inside didn’t show in his voice.

Ámbar’s eyes shyly found Simón’s before moving away. Not trusting her voice yet, she nodded.

She was embarrassed. She had never broken down like that in front of anyone. Hell, she had never broken down like that, period. She felt like she had cried for every misfortune in her life in one go. She wanted to berate herself for it, for letting herself break down, especially in front of someone, but she didn’t have the energy. If she had been alone like all those times in her bedroom, she probably would’ve been able to hold it in. But with Simón holding her, she just…    

Still not meeting his eyes, she checked him over. There was a wet stain of tears, smeared makeup and maybe what else that she had left on his tank top and she was sure a lot of his skin had gotten wet too. It didn’t seem to bother him, but then again, he was too nice to complain about it. Even if it was her.

Simón’s hands moved to her upper arms gently and rubbed a little up and down.

“Is it alright if we keep going?” He asked in that same soft voice he had used before. A part of her hated it and the look on his face; rebelled against the idea of him thinking her a fragile crystal thing. But the bigger, more honest part of herself wanted to reach out to that softness and wrap herself in it like a blanket. “I just think that the sooner you get inside your house, the better. I don’t want you to get sick.”

Again, she only nodded, not having the strength to fight anymore, not having the guts to say she wanted to stay with him a little bit longer.

For a moment, it looked like he might take her hand, but then he seemed to think better of it and dug both his hands into the pockets of his shorts.

She would’ve taken his hand.

She felt embarrassed again. She was so weak when it came to him.

Ámbar crossed her arms, both from the cold and from all the things that were swirling inside of her. They walked like that for some time, just the sound of the waves touching the shore and some people walking down the street filling the silence.

“I would recommend you stay in the house too,” Simón told her. “I know you were meaning to just grab your stuff and go to Emilia’s, but I think it’d be better if you took a warm bath, got rid of all the sand... and ate something, because I don’t know when was the last time you did.” He watched her attentively, searching for any reaction to his words. “Maybe have dinner with everyone some of these days?” He proposed tentatively. “Like I said, Alfredo misses you.”

Ámbar didn’t answer or looked his way. She just kept walking ahead with her eyes fixed on the ground and her hands tucked under her crossed arms. Simón was at least glad that she didn’t seem to be crying anymore, but she didn’t look fine either. Given the circumstances though, he guessed it was too much to ask for her to be.

He considered trying to strike up more conversation but chose against it. Maybe silence was good. A lot of things had been said already; surely it was enough for one night. For many nights. Ámbar probably wanted to be left alone now, not pestered with questions or small talk. Maybe she wouldn’t even want to see him again after this.

From her demeanor, he couldn’t tell if she was just lost in thought or mad at him. She clearly hadn’t wanted to cry and he kind of forced her into it; he could understand if she was mad about that. Ámbar wasn’t good at vulnerable. Maybe just the reminder of it would make her want to run and so she’d avoid him like the plague. Simón would understand that too. But nothing would be able to stop him from worrying and wondering how she was. He didn’t even know how he’d be able to fall asleep tonight.

Finally, the wide entrance to the mansion could be seen ahead, the orange ceilings of the structure standing tall against the dark of the night, almost blending together. Simón knew Ámbar didn’t have her keys with her but surely the doorman would let her in, so it was alright. Should he come in too? A part of him wanted to tuck her in himself, but he knew that was ridiculous. No, he’d just stay at the entrance until she got to the door and—

“Simón?”

He turned at the sound of Ámbar’s voice and found her behind him, some steps away. She must have stopped walking at some point without him noticing, too lost in his thoughts.   

He didn’t know what it was exactly that he saw in her gaze at that moment; only that it rooted him in place. It didn’t last more than a couple seconds, it couldn’t have, because in an instant Ámbar was running to him, holding his face, and kissing his mouth.  

Simón’s eyes closed on instinct, but everything else froze up. His breath caught in his throat at the feel of her lips on his, a little chapped from the sea’s breeze but still soft. She was kissing him firmly, with a taste of urgency or some deep-rooted need.

Either way, he hadto pull away. This was wrong. He had to pull away.  

But when she started to part, he didn’t let her. All of his senses rebelled against her retreat. His hands grabbed her waist, pressed her against him, and he kissed her back, so hard, so full of desperation, that it felt like a plea.

Don’t go.

He didn’t need to pull away, he didn’t need to stop this— He needed her.

Please don’t go.  

Ámbar’s mouth moved against his with renewed confidence, rekindled fire. Her arms wrapped around his neck, bringing them even closer. Simón let out a sound and let his hands relearn her. He had missed her hair, her shape, the slide of her lips, the taste of her mouth. Missed the way they seemed to fit, the warmth of her touch as her hands ran over him, the way she seemed delicate but her hold was strong and sure, electrifying, just like her presence in any room.

Nothing else mattered right now or even registered in his brain. Nothing was important, not even breathing, only this. Only her tongue against his, her scent mixed with the salt of the sea, the feeling of her body against his, and the little gasps she took in before he smothered them out.

They had never kissed like this before. The few kisses they’d shared had been unhurried, soft, because they had all the time in the world.

They thought they had all the time in the world.

Now their kiss was ravenous, frantic, burning, with both of them trying to consume the other. Her fingers tugged at his hair. Simón tried and failed to get enough of her mouth. He was gripping her so tight that he would wonder if it hurt if she hadn’t been holding him just as hard. It was like they wanted to fuse into one so they’d never have to part again.

But the burn in their lungs was too strong for them to keep fighting it forever.

They broke apart just enough to draw in some air. They were both breathing hard and trembling from the aftershock of sensations. For a moment, that was all they did— hold each other and try to keep their hearts on their chests.

Simón opened his eyes and found Ámbar’s— Beautiful, dilated, and yet, so very melancholic.

She moved, bringing a hand to the side of his face. Her thumb caressed his cheek.

“Thank you,” she said, softly. She lowered her hand. “Goodbye.”

Just like that, she separated from his arms and walked away, leaving nothing but air where she once stood.

It was the first time in the entire night that Simón felt cold.

He turned to watch her cross the fence and walk toward the mansion. The front door closed behind her. Ámbar didn’t look back once.

Simón understood what that meant.

This had been their final goodbye, the closure they hadn’t gotten to have because of all the drama that had surrounded their end.   

Now their walk was over, and with it the truce they had put on, like one final performance before the curtain closed on what was once them.

There was no ‘them’ anymore.

Staring at the mansion, Simón wondered why it hurt so much.  

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

His keys rattled as he opened the door and walked inside his house. His mom, sitting at the living room table with a cup of tea in front of her, greeted him back.

“Didn’t you have a hoodie?” She asked him.  

Simón looked down at himself. Considering how things had left off, he doubted Ámbar would approach him again.

“I… must have left it somewhere.”

“You lost it, you mean.” Her mother shook her head, with that blend of exasperated fondness only mothers seemed to have. “You airhead. You’re hopeless.”  

Flashbacks of the night ran through his mind. Simón went up to his room.

“…Yeah. I guess so.”

…

..

.

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

We can play the game 'How many references to songs and other things can I put in one chapter?' I don't know the answer but I think I outdid myself with this one.

[revengecaptain]

stede loved the beach. and the ocean; loved the feeling of the salty air stinging his cheeks, the wind blowing through curls, the crunch of sand between his toes.....

he'd managed to sneak away from mary; they were passing through this town, on their first holiday as a married couple. they were cordial, of course, to each other---but it became apparent soon that they really didn't have much, if any, shared interests. stede took mary to a small brick & mortar store that sold artists' supplies; told her to look around for as long as she wanted, and he'd foot the bill. it was the least he could do, after all----he had been planning on sneaking away all this time.

and he does; after he made sure mary was thoroughly distracted, by the various paints and brushes---he slipped out the door, and down the road; shoes clicking on the cobblestones. wasn't but a short walk to the beach---he had to push through some brush and trees to get there, but he didn't mind; any excuse to get his shoes off and jacket too. at last, he reached the edge of the sand---could hardly shuck off the patent leather heels fast enough, leaving them behind, setting them on a small rock, under a tree. stockings soon follow after, followed by jacket and black scarf; fingers go to deftly undo cravat next, followed by the few buttons at the top of his shirt. didn't want to risk getting anything dirty, but he didn't mind it, truthfully.

tentatively, he takes a step; sinking delightfully into the brown sand, letting out a sigh. however, he freezes---eyes catching sight of a group of men, upon the beach. strange, i thought this would be empty, at this hour---? then the realization dawned on him----these men must be pirates! as quietly as he can, he makes his way over to the dock, just far enough away to hopefully not be noticed, but close enough so he can observe.

stede had always envied the lifestyle of the pirate, privateer----sailor, in general. had half a mind to go join the british navy, but his father wouldn't have it---laughed outright, in his face, when he dared to even suggest it. his dreams were dashed, right then and there. there was no use arguing with his father; he knew he was right. but now----he was on his own, without his father in sight. a grown man can simply observe and take notes, can't he?

feet hit the wood panels of the dock; almost stumbling, for he was too busy watching the men; sparring, passing 'round a bottle, and oh----! did they just---? stede could feel himself blushing, at the sight; one of the men had taken another in his arms and kissed him, full on the mouth! he'd heard, that men at sea get lonely, and they have needs---but he'd never seen it, himself, in person. there's a strange feeling, bubbling up in his chest, at that. not sure if he wants to poke at it, he moves to sit on the side of the dock; taking care to brush the sand off of it before he sat down, letting his legs dangle off the side and into the cool blue water of the sea below.

there was one man, in particular, that had caught his attention; dark hair that was pulled up messily; tendrils falling around face, tanned skin, tattoos snaking 'round his arm and clad in leather pants and soft black shirt. that was the one that the shorter man had kissed---thoughts were cut off when he noticed the man in question meeting his gaze; he had to turn away, out of embarrassment. i hope they don't mind, me spying on them---stede can feel his ears growing hot; surely the blush has spread on his face, making it wholly red. i should turn around, give them all some privacy. i shouldn't be here, i should go back---i feel like i overstayed my welcome....legs come up out of the water then; pulling them close to his chest as he turns, outward; body and head fully facing the far end of the dock. after a moment, they go to cross at the ankles, as he leans back on his hands; relaxing considerably and letting the sea air cool the heat on his face.

what he doesn't notice, is the man moving towards him; too caught up in taking in the sights & smells, eyes trained on the horizon line. a contented sigh leaves lips; as he goes to fully lay down on the dock--not caring even a single iota that his pristine white blouse is getting dirty. right now, all he wanted to do was just rest, take a breath, and let his worries fade away.

@krakensmaw is getting a little bby!stede thing :3

[letters-from-the-gaps]

Letter to a Name that Isn't Mine (Anymore)

A letter I wrote to a version of myself that can't exist, for my sake.

TW: Grief and dysphoria and the general trauma of growing up trans. Take care of yourselves.

My love,

    My dear, my darling. How are you? How have you been? It’s been a little too long since I last wrote, and all I can do is offer apology. Whether or not you accept is your call. Time has been formless and shifting these days, and I find myself more often than not adrift in it all. Unmoored. I moved yesterday; I’m finishing the move today, maybe into tomorrow; on the first of June I’ll move again. To be honest, it’s up there with the worst things I’ve had to do. I genuinely hate it. Alas! Come the first I’ll be in a house! With a kitchen! It’s just up Alder, and I’ll stay till mid August when I go back for Passages. In continuing with the trend of doing college the same way dad did, I’m going to be an orientation leader, too.

    It’s been hard, my love, who’s name sounds like [it is too early and the canyon is quiet and cool and the only sounds are birdsong and enginegrowl and musichum and you are at peace and it is all soft]. Still, her death aches raw and rancid, an open wound I am sometimes lucky enough to simply forget about. Every bumblebee is a moment of remembrance, a pause, a second where I might just lose it, wherever I am. It is hard. It is so hard. Mom and Dad are going through her things, and while I am beyond grateful that I will be able to keep anything of hers I hate that this is how it happens. You want to know something especially unpalatable? I likely won’t need loans for school, on account of selling the house. It strikes me as deeply, deeply unfair that in order for good fortune like that to come my way it must cost me a life. Especially hers. I don’t know how long it will hurt, my love, who’s name sounds like [the surf is slate gray as the sky above and the fog is just barely peeling back and the golden grains of sand between your toes are the most solid things you’ve known in months and gulls cry overhead], I don’t know how long it will take before this wound has even started to scab. I don’t know how long it will take for me to stop picking at it once it has.

    But, God above, it has been good too. Please, please, even with all these ill tidings, even with how dire I know It seems to you now, it gets better. It got better, even: the other day I took a drive in the sunrise, I watched the sun spill out over the sound golden and bright and brilliant as it lit up the water and I nearly wept behind the wheel. It was beautiful, my love, whose name sounds like [mom puts her head in her hands to muffle laughter as you and dad trade jokes back and forth like broken signal towers and you’re all crying now but god it feels so good to laugh so hard], it was everything I wanted it to be. There are more of these days to be found as the summer rolls in, warm nights and clear mornings. Everything is in bloom. Everything is green, and lush, and alive. It is so so green. It is so green.

    I miss you, you know. My love, whose name sounds like [weeping and sniffling under a not-enough fan in the early morning of a place that hates you almost as much as you hate it], my darling dearest, I miss you. I do not regret what I did, to be truthful, because if I had not buried you shallow I never would’ve made it here, but I do regret that I buried you at all. I should’ve burned you, should’ve dropped you into the cool sea, should’ve let the coyotes get you. I should have allowed you the chance to become something more than a corpse. I’m sorry. But I hope you and I can make peace with it, somehow. You can’t be back, my love, whose name sounds like [blue canary in the outlet with the light switch who watches over you make a little birdhouse in your soul], because I will not give back the ground I have bled for, but I do think I can find a better place to lay you to rest. You might never be able to walk Tacoma’s shores, but that doesn’t mean I have to leave you three feet deep in Orange County.

    I know it will never be enough. I’ll still try anyways, because I have to. Because who else will? But I love you. I love you, I love you, I love you. I miss you dearly, and I am fiercely glad we are not the same anymore. I still hope you’re well, somehow, behind me as you are.

Love,

Love,

Love,

Me, Whose name sounds like

[Say I’m the only B in your bonnet make a little birdhouse in your soul]

[hippolotamus]

Could you love the ocean with me? | T | 1776 words

Thank you @shortsighted-owl for flinging words back and forth with me for this soft, lovely moment with our Boys 🦛🚒🦉

The beach makes a soft bed for them to rest together, listening to the waves lapping at the shore as they watch the sunset on the horizon. Eddie smiles to himself when Buck’s hand drifts to catch his, linking their pinky fingers together. He breathes a contented sigh and lets himself settle into the moment, wiggling his bare toes in the sand. 

Buck is the one who taught him to do this - to unwind and relax and just be for a while. When Christopher was younger going to the beach was for sandcastles and chasing seabirds and squealing in the waves. Eddie always had to be on alert, a fully active participant in every moment of the day. For the longest time he couldn’t hear the roar of the ocean without thinking about sitting there alone after Shannon died, falling apart in heaving sobs with her letter clutched between his fingers. 

This beach has become their spot, their refuge- to catch up, to be quiet and reflective together, to or work through the heavier moments in life. They wordlessly walk barefoot - in step, side-by-side - foamy white surf washing up to their ankles. 

Eddie turns his head from where he’s pillowed it on his arm, his focus drawn toward Buck as it always has been. He takes advantage of these opportunities just to look at his best friend - his curls soft with sea salt and smile easy, chest rising with his rhythmic breaths. 

Here by the glittering water, under the clearest Californian skies, Eddie would still choose the brilliant blue of Buck’s eyes as his favorite shade. The depths he’d most like to fall into any day of the week, month, year, ad infinitum. 

These days Eddie's dark strands are laced with silver, just enough that no one else notices. Well, almost no one. Of course Buck and Chris do, but they’re the only people Eddie allows that close into his personal bubble. Like everything else that’s become part of their dynamic – part of them – Buck loves to tease Eddie about it, making a pointed comment about the current price of silver. Often Buck will choose a moment when they’re on Eddie’s couch, relaxed and already leaning into each other. 

Eddie can always sense Buck watching him before he feels Buck’s thumb brushing lightly over his hairline. It’s a careful, gentle touch that leaves Eddie fighting the urge to let his eyelids flutter closed, and willing his heartbeat to slow. In that way at least, Eddie doesn’t feel all that different from when they were cocky young firefighters and Buck asked ‘you wanna go for the title?’

Time passed quicker than he would have imagined possible and, here, somehow, Buck and Eddie are still Buck-and-Eddie. Two halves of a whole, but pieces that never quite came together like they should. They’ve laughed, cried, grieved, fought, broken and rebuilt, and silently loved for almost a decade now. 

“Hey, Eds?” Buck’s voice is low, and soft, just above the whispers of the surf at their feet.

“Yeah, Buck?” Eddie flicks his gaze away, looking back at the sky, as if Buck can tell Eddie’s staring even though his eyes are still closed.

“Do you- do you ever think about what would have happened if you had gone to Chicago instead?”

Eddie turns to look at him again, intrigued. “Not really. What do you mean?”

Buck’s eyes open - God, he is beautiful - as he furrows his brow and bites at his lower lip while he gathers the right words. “Like, do you think you would have had another partner… like me and you?”

“You mean a different stubborn pain in the ass?” Eddie teases. 

“Fuck you,” Buck replies, huffing out a laugh. “You know what I mean.” One of those long legs is a little restless, foot barely twitching, like he’s trying to hide the movement. But Eddie knows him too well. Eddie could list every tic, every shift in every part of Buck and what that means. This one means he’s nervous. Buck is nervous. 

“Yeah, I do. I do know what you mean.” Eddie unhooks their pinkies to take Buck’s hand and fully thread their fingers together. “And, no. I know I wouldn’t have found another partner like you.”

“How can you be so sure?” Buck asks, raising one eyebrow, tilting his head to the side so Eddie can’t help but be mesmerized by those blue eyes, bright even in the fading light.

“Because,” Eddie states simply, “there’s no one else like you. Not in Chicago, not anywhere.”

There’s the shuffle of fabric as Buck turns from his back to his side, fingers still clasped in Eddie's grip. Eddie does what he and Buck always do. He follows until they’re curled like commas, shifting deeper into the fine grains beneath them. 

“I’m glad you came here, to LA,” Buck says. “You and Christopher. Glad that you stayed.”

“Me, too,” Eddie murmurs. “Where’s all this coming from?” 

“I just- Eddie, I’ve tried to do this – to just live my life – with you nearby and not right next to me. Together, but not y’know together. Convinced myself for so long that I could make it work, make it be enough. But–” Buck's voice cracks on the last word, his lower lip trembling.

Eddie hears the words Buck doesn’t say. He knows because they’ve lived in his heart and he’s never been brave enough to say them himself, or it was never the right time. But he wants to say them now. Needs to. 

“I know,” Eddie tells him. “It’s never been enough for me either.”

Buck looks at him for one heartbeat, then another, before slowly, slowly bowing his head until it crosses that line between them. Their foreheads press together,  so close they’re breathing the same air.

They lay still together as Buck’s words silently hover above them. The minutes tick by, but that’s okay.  They’re almost at the precipice now, ready to leap together savoring this moment that’s taken so long to arrive.

“I don’t think I know how to be me without you anymore, Eddie.” 

Eddie cups Buck's cheek, using his thumb to sweep away the tear trying to escape. “You don't have to. Not anymore. Not ever. I'm here, just like I've always been. Waiting for us to be ready. I'm ready now.”

The sun may be just setting, casting its glow over the surf, but Buck's face turns into Eddie’s palm like it’s his only guiding light, placing a single feather-light kiss to the base of his thumb joint.

“Yeah, I think- no. I know I’m ready, too. Now. For all of it, for us.”

A light breeze passes over them, like a confirmation of sorts, when Eddie dips down to touch his forehead to Buck’s again. “All of it,” he repeats with a shaky exhale. 

Eddie closes his eyes to everything else around them to focus solely on Buck - the feel of Buck’s skin under his fingers, free to touch the way he’s been dreaming of for the very first time. Eddie breathes him in, losing himself in the familiar blend of sunshine and moonlight and love and citrus and all smells inherently Buck. 

Buck’s finger hooks gently under his chin, sending a shiver rolling down his spine as Eddie lets himself be moved, His head tips ever so slightly up, up, up, and the barest breath breezes over his skin as Buck’s lips meet his. 

Buck’s hand slides around to slip into Eddie’s back pocket and he pulls Eddie in, in, in, as close as their bodies can press together. Eddie’s own heart skips around -  a wild thing in his chest. His fingers curl around Buck’s neck, combing up into his hair. He can’t believe it’s taken them so long to get here.

Eddie cards his fingers through Buck’s curls as they kiss,  deep and lush and longing for all the time they could have but didn’t. When he breaks away, breathless, he asks “Do you know how long I’ve known you?” 

“Nine years, four months, two weeks.” The words roll off Buck’s tongue like one of the many facts he’s absorbed over the same time, easy and sure and with his whole heart. Eddie's mouth falls open at the specificity, even before Buck adds, “And three days.” 

“Do you have the hours and minutes as well? Jesus, Buck.”

Buck’s expression turns so very, very earnest as he stares at Eddie, backlit by the last rays of sun. “I mean it was the start of a morning shift so approximatel-“

Eddie pulls Buck back to him, and lets his face hide in the crook of Buck's neck, smelling nothing but sunkissed skin, and tasting salt. Buck’s hand comes to cradle his neck; fingers stroking through his hair, making Eddie shiver. 

“So,” Eddie murmurs, “all of it… the good and the bad, me and you together?”

“And everything in between and beyond.”

Eddie snorts, a sharp exhale that tickles Buck’s neck. “ Beyond. Really, Buck?”

“What? With our luck we need to cover every possibility.”

Eddie wants to argue but really, Buck wasn’t wrong about their history - a grenade, an earthquake, a bomb, a tsunami, a blackout, a kidnapping, a blimp, a sinkhole, and a rain storm the just didn’t seem to want to end. 

“Okay, you’ve made a valid point, babe.” Eddie acquiesces, turning Buck around and tugging him against his chest. 

“Oh,” Buck breathes. 

Eddie swears his own body follows the tremor that rolls down Buck’s spine. An idea, new and molten and so very on the table now, forms in Eddie’s mind. He slips his arms round Buck’s waist, touching his lips to the shell of Buck’s ear. “Babe. Baby, darling, cariño, amore, sweetheart, cielo, mi Vida.”

Buck's response is immediate - a low moan rumbles through his chest, through to Eddie's own - and Eddie thinks he might die or ascend or even thank the damn universe Itself. 

“Eds, you really are a romantic, aren’t you?” 

“Well, if you watch enough telenovelas…” Eddie chuckles, lips brushing Buck’s birthmark - each syllable a tiny reverent kiss.

Eddie feels the pull of skin and muscle beneath his lips as Buck’s eyebrows quirk upwards. 

“So, not just for the Spanish practice then?” 

“Well, not just that. They’re good for other things, too…” 

Curiosity shines in Buck's eyes as his smile lifts to a smirk. “Oh yeah? Like wh-“

Eddie captures Buck’s lips with his own again, stealing away whatever words were on the tip of his tongue. He kisses Buck to the soundtrack of seagulls and crashing waves and the steady beats of their hearts in sync. They’re ready, together, to follow each other into tomorrows forever.

[cryunderthewillowtree]

Coral Streaks – Chapter 2

Synopsis – In which she loves him, but he's utterly, painfully clueless. Awra always believed love should be easy – a beautiful gift from Eywa herself. But when she falls for the oldest Sully, it's a love filled with trial. A tale of coming apart and finding your way back.

Related Warnings: Eventual Smut (Aged Up Characters), Language, Descriptions of assault, Harassment

Characters – Neteyam x Fem Metkayina!reader

Related Tags: Major Angst, Slow-Burn, Friends-To-Lovers, Heartache, Tension, Hurt/Comfort

Notes: Posting this from my Ao3 account, please feel free to head over there to read this story as well! I realised only after being 14 chapters in that I spelt Omatikaya wrong this entire time – my apologies in advance. But please enjoy this story nonetheless!

[Do not interact with this story if you are underage.]

Awra keeps to herself for the next few days, busying her day with picking medicinal herbs in the nearby sea pools and weaving baskets to prepare for the hunting party. She hadn’t been speaking with her mother either – their last conversation sat heavy in her gut and reminded her that she was only here for one reason. And that reason was to fulfill her duty to the Metkayina people. It didn’t matter how she felt or what she wanted. What mattered was that she chose a warrior to become Olo‘ eyktan, and became his Tsahik. Her mother had made that much clear.

It would have been easy avoiding the forest Na’vi, if not for the fact that her father had assigned both herself and her younger sister Tsireya to look after the Ometicayans during their stay. It was near impossible to be around Neteyam without a sickly feeling of longing, or dread that her mother would be nearby, watching her. He had picked up on her distance, and sent questioning gazes her way; which she tried to ignore. Even as his siblings thundered down the shoreline, he had lingered behind. Awra knew he was waiting – waiting for her to break the silence, to acknowledge him; to say something. Instead, Awra turned away, picking up her weaving materials and walking upshore to her favourite weaving spot. She could feel him boring holes into her spine, but pursed her lips and did nothing. 

Keep walking, she told herself. Don’t turn around. Don’t turn around, Awra.

Eventually, she heard the soft crunch of footsteps in sand, indicating that the Ometicayan had walked away. She swallowed hard. She couldn’t silence the nagging voice in her head telling her to go to him; that she was hurting him by ignoring his presence. I’m sorry, Neteyam.

As she wove in silence, Awra couldn’t resist sneaking a few glances at Neteyam riding his ilu with his siblings in the water. She wanted nothing more than to join them in the water, but decided against it.

He’s going to resent me for ignoring him, she thought. I feel awful. Notch in, notch out, then under. She wove the pieces of seagrass in and under delicately, forming the securing notches by the base of the basket. I’m doing the right thing. I’m doing the right thing. I’m doing the right –

“Awra.” 

Awra startles, looking up to meet stern amber eyes. Neteyam is standing, dripping wet, in the sand in front of her, a perplexed expression on his face. Awra stares back, feeling herself get nervous as folds his arms over his chest.

“You’ve been avoiding me.” He says simply, cocking his head. Awra chews on her lip, putting down her basket. “Not speaking with me, when you speak with others. And when you speak of me, you do so in such a cold way. What is wrong, Awra?”

“Nothing–”

“I said, what is wrong.” He interrupts. Awra feels uneasy, his hard glare is fixed on her face as he demands answers. “Awra–”

“I said nothing is wrong.” She bites back, baring her teeth. She stands up, head barely reaching his shoulders. He raises his eyebrows. “Stop questioning me. You’re not my father, Neteyam.” She surprises herself at the amount of venom she’d channeled in his name, taking a step backward. 

A moment passes in tense silence. “Leave me be. I need to finish my weaving before the hunting party leaves tonight.”

He scoffs softly, looking at her half-woven basket incredulously. Awra frowns at that, already ready to counter his nonchanlance with something spiteful. “Seriously?”

Awra bites her tongue. I’m not going to say anything that I will regret, she tells herself. If I continue weaving, he’ll take the hint and leave me be. Taking a deep breath, she picks up her basket again, and continues weaving as Neteyam stares her down.

For a few beats, nothing happens. She can see the Ometicayan boy standing in front of her, but he doesn’t seem upset; just confused. He’s simply watching her weave, hands hanging limply at his sides. He’s still soaked, water dripping down his braids onto his chest and shoulders. She knows it must look ridiculous – a Metkayina girl weaving, while an Ometicayan stands in front of her silently, dripping wet. 

Anytime now, she reassures herself. She feels her heart twinge when he turns away from her, seemingly about to walk away. But instead, he clicks his tongue and drops into a crouch in front of her. He’s at eye level now, and Awra stops weaving when she catches the look on his face. 

The Ometicayan boy looks like he’s pleading, begging her to tell him what’s wrong. He almost looks like a kicked puppy, she notes. His large, round eyes are desperate, searching her face for answers. “Awra, please.” His ears turn down as he says so, flattening against his head. 

She feels her heart flip at the way he says her name – all pretty and delicate like sea moss. “Awra, please tell me what’s wrong. Did I do something to upset you? Eywa, just tell me what I did, I’ll fix it.” He pleads with her, snatching the basket out of her hands and tossing it aside.

“Hey–”

He grabs both her hands in his, palms large and warm. They engulf her hands completely, long fingers curled around her wrists. Awra feels her breath hitch at the unexpected contact, eyes darting between their clasped hands and his face. 

“Awra. Tell me what’s wrong. I’ll fix it for you, whatever it is.” Neteyam says again, desperation bleeding into his voice. Awra swallows, heart beating as she can feel every callous in his palm where they rest against hers. He’s got pretty hands, all long and slim, she thinks. He’s rubbing over her knuckles in a way that’s supposed to soothe her, but instead she feels her heart soar with panic at the contact.

She pulls herself out of his grasp, seeing his face fall. “Awra–”

“Sorry Neteyam, sorry.” She grabs her basket hastily, the carefully woven notches unravelling in her panic. “I have to go. Sorry.”

“Awra, wait! Please–” Neteyam grabs her arm, knocking her off balance and she drops her basket and weaving materials in the sand. In a panic, she yanks her arm out of his grip. Her mother could be watching.

“Let go! I’ve gotta go, please just, let me be Neteyam. Please.” He looks devastated at her words, eyes glassy and wide. “I’m sorry.” 

His hand falls to his side, and she takes off towards her marui without a second thought. She can still see his broken expression in her mind, clear as day. It leaves a bitter taste in her mouth. She hates the fact that she enjoyed that little physical contact they shared – even if it was just for a few seconds. 

That night, she tried to commit to memory the way his hands had felt wrapped around hers. How his palms so easily dwarfed hers, his long slender fingers and the way they curled around her small wrists. The way he’d begged for her to stay, the way his eyes grew wide when she’d left him on the beach. Maybe, she tried convincing herself, maybe just the idea of him is enough for me. That night, she falls asleep dreaming of dark blue skin and golden eyes. 

[niemernuet]

Week 12 of the off-season winter sports fandom challenge already! The prompt is:

summer trip to the sea 🌊⛱

As I still haven’t recovered from the Justiel-wedding-pics, and probably never will, I used it as another setting for a little drabble.

Spark

rating: G pairing: Daniel Yule/Justin Murisier characters: Daniel Yule, Justin Murisier length: 700 words

Justin had no clue about the meaning of the seaside towns that dotted the entire coastline of England, not their flashy, larger-than-life past nor their slow, painful decline since the invention of Mallorca and Schengen. How could he, anyway?

Daniel watched him with a soft smile on his lips as he looked out over the grey, marshy land with a look of intense concentration.

“You can say it, you know?”

Justin’s frown vanished, and he turned his head. “What?”

“That you’re glad you’re not living around here,” Daniel answered, and looked down at the rusty, weatherworn railing that kept them from falling from the pier. “I certainly am.”

Justin shrugged, his eyes taking in the run-down terrace fronts of Southport once more, the old amusement park with the shabby Ferris wheel and the dingy boats stuck in the sand. It was the closest town by the sea from the place where Dave and Mandy held their wedding.

“Honestly? It does not look that different than downtown Verbier during off-season. I’m sure in a few weeks it’ll be different.” His nose wrinkled. “Except for the smell.”

“That’s the low tide,” Daniel explained. “It’ll be better in a few hours…or, at least not as bad anymore.”

Justin stepped away from the banister, and looked out towards the horizon. The pier lead away, and disappeared far away in the haze of the hot summer day. Daniel did not like the look on Justin’s face. He was already sweating under the carefully transported, barely rumpled dress shirt, and if he had to walk the entire length of the pier both ways, he would be drenched before they arrived at the church.

“It’s one of the longest piers in the whole country,” he explained. “There’s not enough time.”

Justin chewed on his lower lip. “But then we won’t even see the sea.”

“We are at the sea,” Daniel reminded him.

Justin rolled his eyes. “No we are not. Do you see water anywhere?” He turned around, though, and they began to stroll back towards the town, and their car waiting in one of the parking lots behind the no-longer-shiny façade of the townhouses.

“Just because there’s no water doesn’t mean we’re not at the sea,” Daniel said. “It’s…”

“Low tide,” Justin finished for him. “I know, I know.”

They were horrendously overdressed for the town with their suits and ties but Justin did not seem to care. He looked good, even though he had whined nonstop while Daniel had helped him with the tie knot and the cufflinks.

“What is it with you and the sea anyway?” he asked as they stepped under the shadow of the first house. The clock above a shabby souvenir shop told them that they had one hour to get to the church a few kilometres inland, somewhere around Blackburn.

Justin shrugged. “It wouldn’t feel like a holiday without it.”

“It’s not exactly a holiday, is it? More like a short trip with a bunch of commitments.”

“It’s our only holiday together this year,” Justin answered. “So let me have it, please.” They turned away from the shore, and walked through an alley, passing bars and a supermarket. Daniel pondered Justin’s words for a moment.

“You’re right,” he eventually said.

“Of course,” Justin said.

Daniel chuckled before turning serious again. “Do you think we’re…changing? Like, under the daily slog?”

Now it was Justin’s turn to laugh. “You mean we lost the spark?”

Daniel shrugged. He did not join in Justin’s laughter. “Why not?”

Justin sighed, and put one arm around Daniel’s shoulder. “You make it sound as if we’re an old married couple when we are neither old nor married.” They stopped at their car, and Justin gave Daniel a kiss while he rummaged through the pockets of his jacket for the keys.

“I don’t care where I live as long as it’s with you,” Justin said. “And for me, you’re still as sparkly as ever.”

“That’s the sweat,” Daniel said.

Justin rolled his eyes. “I mean to say you’re hot.”

Daniel nodded. “That too.” He laughed at his own joke and Justin’s deadpan look, and gave him the kiss back.

[forlorn-kumquat]

in mysterious fathoms below

also read here on ao3

----------

The storm takes him by surprise.

It shouldn't. Ed's been sailing these waters long enough to know the sea like the back of his hand. He can read the waves, the clouds, the wind. Nothing the ocean throws at him is ever a surprise. Until now.

The sky had been clear only five minutes earlier. A steady wind filled the sails and moved them at a good pace through the calm water. Everything had been perfect.

Things are far from perfect now.

The ship lurches underneath him as it's battered by the waves. Water surges overhead before crashing down onto the deck, cracking wood and throwing people around like toys. Thankfully, no one goes overboard.

Ed swears as he struggles to keep his footing, his knee screaming in protest at the strain it's under. He's got a rope wrapped around his forearm as he struggles to tie knots. If he can't get this secured properly, they're likely to lose the supplies that they hadn't had time to move belowdecks.

But luck must be on his side, because he gets the last knot tied just before another wave comes crashing down over the whole thing. The water hits him like a battering ram, driving him to the deck hard enough to make his bones sing from the force of the impact, but the supplies don't move. The ropes don't break - although his body certainly feels like it has.

He drags himself to his feet, arms and legs shaking with the effort. He wants nothing more than to curl up in a corner and just not move until the storm passes, let the pain and water wash over him until it's either done or he drowns. At this point, he doesn't really care which.

But then he hears a yell from the other side of the ship, Fang's voice rising in distress, and he can't ignore one of his crew who needs him.

Ed forces himself to move, one step after another. It feels like he's trying to fight the entire storm just to walk from one end of the ship to the other. But he doesn't stop. He's almost there, can see Fang and Ivan struggling with a piece of sail that ripped in the wind.

And then a wave comes out of nowhere, hitting him in the chest and driving him toward the railing. He scrabbles for purchase on the wood as he's slammed against the side, but his fingers can't catch. Can't stop himself from being lifted by the force of the water, thrown into the air.

He opens his mouth to scream and saltwater fills his mouth, his lungs. He disappears without a sound below the waves.

----------

Drowning is more peaceful than Ed had always imagined.

He's given a lot of thought to drowning, over the years. Anyone does, when they spend enough time on a ship. He's watched men drown when he couldn't save them, watched the way their eyes bulged and their mouths opened on silent screams before they slipped forever below the waves. It always looked so violent, so painful.

It was the kind of ending he knew in his heart that he deserved.

But this isn't violent, isn't painful. He just sinks, further and further into the darkness. His arms and legs are too heavy to move. He doesn't bother to try and breathe or even open his eyes. He just lets himself go. He dies.

Or, at least, that's the plan.

Instead, something grabs him around the waist. Several somethings, actually. They wrap around him like soft rope, twining around his legs and pinning his arms to his chest. Ed instinctively struggles against whatever’s got him caught and the things around his chest tighten to hold onto him. Too tight, and Ed can feel his head swimming, spots dancing in front of his eyes.

Everything starts to go dark.

----------

Ed wakes up on a beach.

He can feel seaweed and wet sand under his hands and feet. His boots are missing. His entire body hurts, especially around his chest.

But he wakes up. He’s alive, which is honestly more than he thought he’d have when he first went in the water. He’s alive because something saved him. Or, rather, someone.

A blond someone who’s trying to hide behind a rock nearby, but not doing a very good job of it. Ed hears their breathing first, and then he sees the blond hair flash in the sun when he cranes his head around.

“You don’t have to hide,” he calls out, his voice raspy. He breaks into a spate of coughing on the last word.

“You shouldn’t talk,” a male voice calls back. “Not after how much water was in your lungs.”

“Come out so I can see you, then!”

Ed hears shuffling behind him, but his rescuer doesn’t move. “I - I really shouldn’t,” he says, anxiously.

“Guess I’ll just have to come to you, then.” Ed tries to push himself up, but he only makes it up so far before his arms give out and dump him back onto the sand. He’s too tired to try a second time, but apparently once was enough to convince his rescuer of his sincerity, because he hears the shuffling start up again.

“Okay, I’m coming,” his rescuer tells him. “Just - just promise me you won’t freak out.”

Ed has a few seconds to try and puzzle that out and then his rescuer shuffles slowly into view. He’s a man roughly Ed’s age, with a muscular torso, short blond hair, and beautiful brown eyes. And golden-brown octopus tentacles where his legs should have been.

“Oh,” Ed breathes. “Oh, look at you.”

The man flinches, his face going red with shame. He twists his hands anxiously, and his tentacles writhe restlessly on the sand. “I know I look like a monster-“

“You look incredible,” Ed corrects him, as shock flicks across the man’s face. Then, his own face darkens with a scowl. “Who the hell’s going around calling you a monster?” he demands.

“My - my father,” the man stammers, but then he cuts himself off. “Did you really call me incredible?” he whispers, like he can hardly dare to believe it.

“Astonishing,” Ed tells him. “A wonder. A marvel. Shall I go on?”

The man’s lips quirk in a shy smile. He creeps closer, one of his tentacles reaching out and brushing the back of Ed’s hand. Ed twists his hand around, brushes the tentacle with his fingertips and watches a minute shiver run through the man’s body. The tentacle curls around his fingers like a caress.

“You saved me,” Ed says. “I owe you my life, and I don’t even know your name.”

“Stede,” the man whispers. “I’m Stede.”

[deadxlv]

Far Away Soul, White Cold Star 💫

Chapter 20 p.2 “Brittle..How..Brittle…little Sea Begotten Bones..~”

Must be something along these shores..no way everything has been eaten by those damnable parasites

Sands so dark I wonder how many souls are buried deep beneath them

That's a horrid thought..actually heh- those waters..though..

Feel them calling my name even..I feel like..going to them...

So dark..so comforting..just one..

One

More

Step

So very Near to the Edge..

It..speaks to Me..

H-home..

  A harsh tug at the back of your jacket thrashed you back to the shoreline, foot ever so hovering above the water you blink in confusion as to what had just transpired. Hand letting you go you sit there staring at the rolling waves of the sea till you hear, "The Waters aren't safe..I wouldn't recommend even wading in it if I were you", that soft voice making you turn up and to your dismay it's that same woman again. Vìrkä stared down at your small figure with a serious expression on her face. It has been a long and restless night at the beach, apart from the hectic morning it just felt like there were voices calling you- ringing in your ears never seeming to go away no matter what you tried. Forehead bandaged up with a piece of cloth, Vìrkä helped Kÿr stand back up off the black beach sand, "My bad for the force..but uh- These waters aren't safe..undrinkable and for what I know inhospitable so I recommend you throw something in it before you even try to touch it okay?", finishing it in a soft tone of voice after patting your shoulder a few times she walked away into the distance along the shoreline. Kÿr watched her following on the black sands made him wonder on about this strange feeling, 'she must sense it too right? Like who can't it's such a strong tugging feeling..like it's truly calling out for you', Kÿr thought to himself promptly brushing off the sand from his trousers and running after her to not be left behind.

  The dark blue sea was serene, the view of blue for as far as you can see with no landmasses in the distance to take record of, this continent is really like a massive island with nothing else around it but itself..how draining. Soft cool sand crunching under your footsteps Vìrkä stretched her arms in the air fully opening her mouth revealing her serrated teeth once again to yawn, her bare toeless feet sinking into the black sand as she walked ahead. Her left long drooping ear twitched up as she stopped in her tracks, Kÿr panting a bit put his hands on his knees in an attempt to catch his breath, "Jeeeeeeez....Hhhh- I..man I hate being Short..stubby darn legs..", he wheezed having to take even longer strides to even catch up with her. Vìrkä putting her hands behind her head looked down at the Sìrlan and smiled holding back a little laugh, "You'll grow into it", she turned around, "Little Hybrid", she remarked continuing to walk on knowing what will ensue after this.. 'it's classic Kÿr right? Of course it is'

  "Pvbshdbfft- What?! What'd you say?! Come back here!", Kÿr said waving his fist in the air in aggravation running on his stubby legs after her to no avail, Vìrkä speed walking away causing the small Sìrlan to trip over his own tail and roll on the ground. Sounds of playful screaming and sand getting kicked everywhere made none other than Hijìn to turn around and look back. Hijìn had turned remaining rags as well as woven cloth by Vìrkä into pieces of clothing for him to wear, he had collected sharp shells from the beach and grounded them into powder, fitted branches he got from the red wood tree line into a stone spear, had already made a water jug from a random skull husk he found buried under the sand, and woven himself a small sun hat with the remaining plant fibers and cloth he had left over. Looking back he saw Kÿr chasing Vìrkä, the two playfully running around slightly getting splashed by the waves hitting the shoreline, Vìrkä sprinting then hopping over a incoming wave made a run for it from Kÿr chasing after her threatening her with a water blaster. Hijìn sighed looking away faced back towards the tree line, he has been testing wether or not their ban from these woods had been true, but sadly with many attempts at getting inside they've all been futile. One can only move their hand within a feet of the tree line before a heavy gravitational force beginning to encircle your arm and once close enough your thrusted back unable to get any closer..what an inconvenience..

  Curiosity growing once more, Hijìn thrusted his hand towards the tree line, the ever so building force started to grow the closer and closer he got to touching it. Shadows of the woods screeched out to him making his hand tremble from the incoming pressure until finally his hand was forcibly jerked back by the invisible force, looking at his hand Hijìn scoffed seeing a minor burn around his palm almost if the force grabbed him back and threw him out. Scoffing in annoyance he was about to try again till he heard a strange cut off scream occur behind him, turning around he saw Vìrkä standing there bewildered with Kÿr nowhere to be found, "Hijìn! Hijìn! Come I-I don't know what happened to him!", she screamed out concerned. Hijìn running over missed the instant of a rotten plant ridden hand slowly creep from the forest only to disappear. Vìrkä staring at the small waves passing over stood far apart from the water looking back at Hijìn very confused, "I saw the action he was gonna do next..I can only focus on one future at a time- I focus on myself then everyone else but I didn't think he would just vanish from getting touched by the brunt of a wave..", she took a few more steps back away from the waves as Hijìn stared out at the water unsure of how to react. I don't think he's hiding if he was he would have to hold his breath for a while..his body is small so that's difficult on top of that he would need to shrink himself to disappear beneath such shallow waves..something isn't adding up here.

  Hijìn standing there clenched his fists trying to think of a possible solution to this, scanned the waters edge near panicking, he was completely dry and had not a single drop of water on him apart from his own sweat. Sun hat slightly swaying in the cool breeze Hijin turned to Vìrkä who had droplets all over her patched up dark purple hoodie and he burrowed his eyebrows thinking, "Vìrkä quickly dry yourself..NOW!", She stammered in the thought of it but realizing what he could possibly mean she passed a dry cloth from Hijìn's satchel on her arms and legs. "Shit My Hoods keeping me soaked with this sea water! Shit!", Vìrkä yelled out quickly trying to yank her hoodie off revealing her white tank top underneath but before she could even react she would vanish into thin air out of nowhere leaving Hijìn standing there eyes wide open in shock. Where the- How In the..What is going on they get slightly soaked then they disappear..what is this. Staring at the water you grow paranoid not able to comprehend what could possibly be doing this and so you run..you run in every direction but back wanting to try and find any possible clue as to where they went..

F..Four Days Later..

Hijìn absolutely exhausted walked back to the original campsite they had made on the beach, blisters on his feet from running all day and night, bags under his eyes, and generally very hungry he made it over. Taking a turn around a rock his face lit up slightly after what he had just saw, Kÿr and Vìrkä were both laying down unconscious on the plant beds they made the while prior, but using up his remaining strength Hijìn jolted over and began to shake them both trying to see if they were both awake. Their bodies shook a few times until finally waking up, Vìrkä sprung up first and looked at Hijìn with a mortified look on her face, Kÿr instantly jumped to his feet holding a gun in hand aiming it up at the sky having a pissed off look on his face till he looked around all confused, "Whh..whhh..what..where- I thought I was just..fighting", Kÿr said looking at Vìrkä who faced him back concerned. "H-Hijìn how..How long has I-.", "It's been four days..you both have been gone for four days", Hijìn responded sitting on his knees facing the two physically worn out.

Kÿr swiped his hand down making the gun disappear took a seat down on his small bed and started counting his four fingers one by one making calculations in his head, Vìrkä watched him before turning to Hijìn and stealing the hat from his head and holding both sides forcing it onto her own head while she tried to cope with what had just transpired. "Four days..I knew the water seemed dangerous because it was void of life..but..how is this even p", "You", the voice echoed in Vìrkä's mind making her quickly turn to the sea to their left. For a split of a second she swore she had just witnessed a head poking between the waves, it's dark yellow eyes wide open staring at her would vanish just as quickly and it made her slightly paranoid. A touch on her knee made her jolt back to see Hijìn staring at her, "You..K?", she exhaled glancing back at the water before facing him, "Y-yeah..I'm fine- just felt like I was sleeping then woke up randomly..feels like the way I felt when I woke up that morning just now it's four days later..", she let the sun hat rest on her head as she witnessed Hijìn slowly start to close his eyes from exhaustion. Vìrkä scoot to the side gently pulling his head to sleep down on her pillow, "Sleep..I'll find something for you to eat..I'll mend your wounds..I'll support..I promise", she softly smiled as she spoke in a quiet calm tone to Hijìn who at this point was knocked out cold.

Patting the man's head a few times keeping the same look on her face, Vìrkä chose to look up only to be met with Kÿr holding his face with his palm having watched the whole time, he had a eyebrow raised questioning what this all was. "Really?", He asked sarcastically, "What I can be reassuring it's not all guts guts guts with me..I'm a individual too ya'know", she said shrugging her shoulders, "Ight Fair..but Y'know kinda weird how delicate you are with him kinda..suspicious", Kÿr said burrowing his brows still staying in the sarcastic tone of voice. "Yeah yeah you and your implications..hope you know just like My sister I was a life spirit..till this junk transpired and I made dumb decisions- besides that you can't be talking she used to be innocent until you arrived", Vìrkä said crossing her arms was soon made to jolt back from an arm wrapping around her side and picking her up. Hijìn awoke having picked up Vìrkä with one arm and tossed her over his shoulder, her tank top getting raised a bit revealing her faded symbol like scars placed on her abs she exclaimed out confused as to what's going on, "Hey! I thought you were sleeping what do you think your doing?!", Vìrkä glanced to her right while holding the sun hat down on her head to see Kÿr being held the same way just this time he was looking at her with the unsurprised look. "It's it guess you should probably consider that next time..this seems to always happen now", Kÿr said pointing at a black tentacle slithering up Hijìn's back and into his right shoulder disappearing, Vìrkä groaning in annoyance just held on any way she could after yanking her tank top back down, "Infected I swear.."

Hijìn standing there holding both of them over his shoulders would grow a familiar grin across his face before bolstering out, "Sorry little children I had to get some actual work done here while Big G had to sleep off his worn down brain..don't mind the transportation we'll be here a while~!", from behind Vìrkä responded with some attitude, "I'm older than you ya black shit stain!", "Don't Care we GO!", Hijìn responded soon spinning on a dime and running in the direction they went initially. Feet pushing sand back so hard it made a dust storm trail behind them, Hijìn sped across the black sands of the beach going past most of where they had crossed, yet by some strange feeling it would seem that he was actually leading off to somewhere..like he knew something. Wind blowing all around harshly, Kÿr tried his hardest to turn around till he could at least see his face, "h-Hey! Where are we Going?! There's nothing even on these beaches!", Kÿr's voice slightly muffled by how much wind was blowing into his face from how fast they were blitzing away. Jerking his head to the right Hijìn confidently smirked revealing rows of serrated teeth would say, "No No No~ While the Kid was running I noticed something in the distance, something large and burning in the horizon, he didn't wanna investigate as he saw all of you as more important priorities n his emotions yadda yadda so now we're gonna confirm my suspicions", Kÿr holding his hair back would respond with, "Whhhhh...Ack Fuck sand in my..Mouth- Pleh! What's your suspicions?!", "That there was a sea port of some kind out here which was hit by my cousins escape", Hijìn said smiling at Kÿr before turning back around and hopping over a small wall made of hole filled rocks blocking the coast.

  Stopping abruptly upon arrival the two of you were gently dropped on the ground to see the world ahead in all its wonderful brimstone, Kÿr shaking all over to rid of the sand and Vìrkä streching her arms in the air after yawning once more both faced on ahead to see his thoughts become a reality. Torn down walls, crumbled small town buildings, massive claw marks torn into the docks, smoke billowing out of still burning buildings, and the ever so growing stench of rotting meat filling the skies. Hijìn still maintaining the same cocky smirk at all times crossed his arms and shrugged, "Dang my cousin really did a number on this shit show..maybe we can find something useful here", he said breaking between the two who just looked at all the destruction unsure of why infected Ma'ire even did this. Kÿr holding his right arm after getting squished against the man for five minutes sneaked his way behind Hijìn, carefully stepping over broken pieces of wood, shattered glass, sharp broken metal seams, and any small dangerous object laid to waste by the monster. Vìrkä walked off into the distance towards the broken down handful of buildings wantin to see if she could find any better clothing for this weather, searing heat of the dual suns burning at her exposed skin making her burn her bare feet on the hot wooden floors.

  The final standing bits of the docks groaned out from the crashing waves below slamming against their supports, crunching of glass beneath his feet as he walked on to the docks with Kÿr. Kÿr running ahead would swing on a rope to the remainder of the docks broken off from the main platform to check, Hijìn watching on jerked his head all the way to the side maintaining the same look on his face waiting for Kÿr to respond, "There's nothing..don't know why they have such tall docks for boats all the way down here but there aren't any anywhere it seems..", "Agh never mind..let's just check somewhere else then, at minimum there has to be supplies". Hijìn said aloud before extending tentacles from his wrist down the high platform picking up Kÿr and bringing him up to his level, "alright- wait where coocoo? I thought she was following us?", he asked Kÿr confused, but Kÿr being Kÿr just stared at him with a bamboozled look on his face 'tf would I know or care' type emotion. "Hey Boys! Comere real quick!", a familiar voice breaking through the silence caught the two's attention, "Bingo-.", Hijìn muttered to himself looking away from Kÿr and soon running off with the Sìrlan in hand fast as hell causing Kÿr to yell out for a quick second still being held by the tentacle, "Ag-."

  Wind blowing around incredibly quickly by their stop after running over, Hijìn and Kÿr arrived on the scene meeting up with Vìrkä except this time she wasn't alone. Vìrkä walked over having her arm around a short, beaten up, cloaked, skull mask-like wearing individual who seemed to limp due to their injuries, "I managed to find a straggler from this small hidden dock underneath all the rubble..maybe we can Y'know get some information on what happened here?", she finished off looking down at the small individual who seemed to cower back in her arms away from the imposing Hijìn who didn't stop glaring down at the creature with a toothy grin like if we wanted to eat them. "Don't worry Little One..we..Don't..Bite..at least they don't~", he teased trying to get a reaction from the little creature only to see nothing come from the multi-hole having face mask and growing bored and losing his smile promptly crouching down to just barely extend over their level, "say something at least damn..". The small figure glanced up to Vìrkä who would softly smile down at it giving it some reassurance till it faced up to the man and Sìrlan and from the seven black holes in its skull mask seven eyes would appear in them, Kÿr slightly jerked his head back in discomfort to the sight before it spoke in a monotone slightly raspy rustic accent, "A-hm..lagrì Fraksè mur difriket.. verti..hard..te speek..vurti sortty", they bowed down in awkwardness trying to not make themselves seem a fool in a way from them trying to speak in everyone else's language as it isn't their primarily used one.

  Vìrkä slowly sitting down on her knees glared at the two boys not wanting them to make a single joke about their difficulty speaking as she pat the small one on their back a few times, "Look I know the Lagrì Fraksè is a hard dialect but it's the only way everyone on the world can communicate between our many language barriers..I'm glad someone of your age range being so young can even muster a few similar words, but me and my friends need help- we have to cross the sea to escape all the monsters. Did the monsters attack your home?", she asked facing the small individual who slowly nodded their head facing up to her. Kÿr scoffed to himself glancing over to Hijìn saying, "who would've taken her for a youngling caretaker right?", Hijìn snickering under his breath responded with, "yeah what a mystery", before getting smacked across the face by Vìrkä promptly making him shut the fuck up. Fist raised at Kÿr making him shut up as well while having a smiling face to the youngling, Vìrkä would begin whispering to them conversing amongst themselves about it, she has more knowledge upon the many dialects in the region and could probably speak fluently in all of them if given the chance to, but it all came down to a stop when the youngling ran away from all three towards a seemingly untouched small building tucked behind a collapsed tavern. Hijin & Kÿr lookin at Vìrkä confused would be silenced by her getting up and saying, "Our little friend here called- Uh translation is hard gimme a sec..Uh..Hmn..Zemè (Zem-r) kinda odd name but they said they had managed to salvage a small craft from the attack! Only thing is she said was that you Kÿr! Are gonna need to improve its systems before the voyage", Vìrkä said crossing her arms with a cocky look on her face. "Bw-WHAT?! Why me?!", Kÿr yelled back in annoyance crossing his arms in mimicry, "Because I told her your Blessing", "You Bitch!", Kÿr yelled back throwing some sand he saw on the floor at her, but Vìrkä was already following the little Zemè to the shed so all it did was splat on the floor pathetically- Kÿr groaned in response to that too..

Hijìn up and off the ground watching the others walk along would shed his happy demeanor into something more or less of concern, the ruins this place was left in were grand even for its small scale it was if this place was ripped apart intentionally before the monster fled..fle..but where? The giant holes in the dark wood framing are footsteps..a-And the claw marks aren't from its claws but from..tentacles ripping through it all harvesting the citizens in this small settlement on the brink of their world. Hijìn looking all around near frantically analyzing every small detail could nearly perfectly picture the scenario. The Beast breaking through the tree line causing massive earthquakes, people waking up in fear see a several hundred foot tall behemoth linger over them crushing the center of the town underneath it- then came the tentacles. Those horrid growths rip from the insides of the behemoths organs and flesh, slithering their spine filled sharp vines throughout the town slicing through civilians left and right while others harvest the corpses and fuse them into the monsters body making it grow larger not only with Hèr'La's abilities but it's powers of near infinite absorption- the capability to harvest users abilities, knowledge, and skills instantly simply by entering their bloodstream. Hijìn zoning out as he watched the clouds dart across the skies lingered on the thought, his cousin..made specifically to be not only his superior but evolutionary out competitor made to consume him and make the new super power grow, very feeling of dread making the tendrils of the parasite writhe underneath real Hijìn's skin. "Are you alright Xèhtrï?", Hijìn burrowing his eyebrows and looking away scoffed at the very notion turning around and seeing those same cold dead beady gray eyes, Slithering seeming alive void-like eyes of his parasite locking with those of Vìrkä..who could've asked for such a meeting. "Xèhtrï are you alright in there..he treats you well I'd imagine? Especially after- Y'know our issues", Hijìn broke eye contact and walked away from her to the edge of the platform facing the crashing sea below, "don't you dare speak my name..unlike this anomaly of a organism I live inside who can be reasoned with I still crave absolute control and wish to consume the world, but just because this vessel is all fine and dandy with reasoning with the likes of you..", he glared back and she was gone.. "I will never change..your torture to make you my vessel..I'll never forget...", it was like she was never there at all..for she sees all..and nothing will escape Her Grasp..

  Tugging at your pants catches your eye as when you look down you see no one else but Zemè, her boney fingers poking from her baggy cloaks sleeves latched on to you as she wanted your attention. Seeing no reason not to entertain this youngling in good spirits you crouch down to this strange creature and give them the space to speak. Zemè gently approached having her hands together leaned her head slightly to the side as she faced the man, she made no noise only stared at him with all seven eyes poking behind the skull mask as the sea breeze gently blew over them. Moment passing with the two calmly staring at one another Zemè got a bit closer and handed him a envelope from her right sleeve, "Preeze..gib Zis to za..", Zemè knocked on her face mask a few times with her left hand in some agitation Hijìn slightly smiled saying, "Don't worry I suffer from it too..gets better..", Zemè passing her small clawed skeleton-like hand down her mask she tiptoed with both hands on the envelope radiating a more positive energy which emanated around them soothing the mood. "Prease..my mum..had give to A-ædïn! Prease can send?", Zemè begged in her quiet monotone voice looking up to the man, he swayed his head a bit thinking about it till he snatched the envelope and put it in his satchel after patting the small one on her head, "I promise..don't you worry okay", standing back up he confidently grinned and crossed his arms, "If I fail u can kick my ass free of charge!", boastfully chuckling like a idiot intentionally while Zemè managed to slightly giggle before coughing a bit..hm.

  A massive gust of wind exploded from the shed knocking the remainder of the destroyed tavern into rubble, Hijìn holding Zemè for dear life planted her back down on the ground looking on in confusion, "The Hell?! Who blew something up?!", he asked only to see little Zemè run off towards there in glee. "W-whh", mumbling to himself in confusion as he followed in a slight speed walk trying to see what has happened. Looking over the edge down to the docks Hijìn's eyes widened in shock, a used to be run of the mill sea boat has turned into a massive high end speed boat, black metal hull, wood framing, used to be motor became gigantic thrusters, and a cabin which ends are shielded by a barrier to not allow water inside from any angle. Kÿr passing his final touch to the side of the boats engines walked outside brushing dust off himself saying, "Damn am I good or not", Vìrkä coming out from behind him tossing some final junk out slightly chuckled, "Sure keep telling yourself that now cmon we need to get going", she said looking up at the two on the platform and she selectively chose to wave at Zemè this time..hm. "Man I really owe you credit little rodent you sure know how to make shit that hits different- cootos to you haha!", he said before hopping down and landing on the entrance passing through the barrier, Hijìn turning around would check up to see if Zemè was coming with them but strangely enough she was gone..about to hop over to check once again he was stopped by those same cold green hands. Vìrkä looked at him and she didn't really want to bring herself to saying it but she just had to, "X- Hijìn..she's gone..", Hijìn turned around awkwardly chuckling as he faced her, "what do you mean..Gone? Me and her just spoke and she just gave me this envelope from her mother?", Vìrkä stammered in her words for a second before uttering it out, "She was never truly with us..she..she passed with the rest of her people four days ago Hijìn..that envelope was the final piece of the puzzle for her to finally pass on..she died with it..and now you carry it". He couldn't even bring words to even describe what this all could even be..poor girl must've been hiding with her parents till she was ordered to stay here..given the envelope to travel as far away from here as possible on the old ship..but she chose not to..trying to go back to her parents it was too late and she perished with them..if only..we killed that thing..she would've been here..

  Slow rumbling of the high frequency engine started making the boat move forward through the dock and out towards the open waters, the barriers seal fully enveloped the ship making it so not even a droplet of water could even enter from anywhere, slapping of low waves hitting the bottom of the ship as it made it out. Vìrkä sitting by Hijìn watched him soullessly stare at the sea beyond, 'My..promise..will it even matter anymore..No we have to give it to her- we fail again we need to do this..for her at least for someone..my weakness allowed her to die from that monster and now I shall carry this burden too..'. Kÿr listened to it all, he gripped the steering wheel and slowly moved the lever forward making them gently move on ahead, his face stayed near emotionless and his thoughts almost vacant except for one thought, 'I never even saw this so called Zemè..I was just..playing along who'

You've crossed not only the desert sands, you've traveled the stars and battled across the red forested continent filled with dangers at all sides, but now you strap yourselves in a vessel to cross this worlds very oceans. You may leave us..boy..but we shall always remain with you!

Why did she say she knew this would happen I needed more time! Why did she kick me off and stay inside of that monster?!

She should've stayed on that Beach..right?

I could've been stronger if only I had a blessing or anything I could've killed that monster and made everyone happy!

V I know you'd change someday..and that's why your the only person in the world I can proudly say I'm family with and that I love..

.

..

...

Idiotic children..ripped of their grasp believe escaping the manifolds of the woods they shall be saved..No..I will command her to get her revenge..regardless of who perishes. You've tarnished the last of my plans..that monster of filth and sin shall prevail in becoming the ultimate life form to have ever walked this planet..and mantle me as the true creator of this wretched world..

Shifting seas call out to you, their ever whispering Melodie's draw you closer and closer to the truth. Monsters unknown lurk in all corners of this world, you've seen two of the many serpents which reign on each continent..only thing is who would you meet next? Engine rumbling your ordered to stop at a line in the sea, a Line made from the separation of fresh from salt water..a race to the finish..

Death always prevails but life chases after the best in us all..

Mad dash to the end of times once again..

Forgone..That is the Conclusion to the Second Arc of Far Away Soul, White Cold Star..

Parasitic Equilibrium..

May we meet again across the stars~✨