#tardis trio

[riverspond]

THEY DID THIS FOR ME ??????

[infectedpaul]

im just obsessed with them okay

[fivenyssateganadric]

lol just spent the last hour making this random and incredibly specific edit

[mylifeiscomics]

✨ Tempus Fugit ✨

[geronimomo-spd]

Dodo and Steven's try out in gun holding XD (the Gunfighters, episodes 2 and 4)

[whookami]

Ultimately I liked the Doctor Who specials with David Tennant a lot… except the Rory erasure.

I get why it happens but like… Rory is my favourite companion, and his importance is constantly overlooked. He was one of the few companions to have a very clear and honest view of the Doctor. In Vampires of Venice he straight up tells the Doctor that the problem with him is that he makes his companions so eager to risk themselves, to put themselves in danger, to impress him, to live up to the impossible ideal he sets. That speech was the moment I knew I loved Rory, and the rest of the season only made my love all the stronger.

So it makes me sad he was left out of the puppet show, and also, the very end… The Doctor *has* had a family before. He never stopped running, except for that time he stayed in place for like, 6 months, during The Power of Three. He stayed with Amy and Rory, his best friends and technical in-laws, and had a chance to be a part of their lives for a considerable amount of time. So yeah, not recognizing that fact makes me a little sad with the specials. Not enough to hate them. I really enjoyed them, even if some plot points were… well, the usual Doctor Who level of contrived. But Amy and River got mentioned and Rory got nothing.

Although… one little part of me heard the Toymaker refer to “the One Who Waits” and was like… Rory was the Boy Who Waited. I’d accept him back as a villain. But I mean, I know it’s not that. After all, Amy was the Girl Who Waited, so it’s not going to be either of them, it’s just a coincidence. But like, much like there were some pretty silly theories back in the day that Rory was secretly the Master, I’d accept him being some extra-temporal being that is waiting patiently.

[normalenjoyer-png]

this is getting its own post cause i want more people to see my funny headcanons. look under the cut boy.

these are all my initial drawing ideas but all my beautiful dumb idiot brain could come up with is the meme above

dialogue 1

NM: (opening the door) this is the castle. (cut to vast empty expanse of void. room size (very large, VERY tall) indicated by light gray lines, implying no lighting except what's produced by the void) it is empty because i hate decorating and i hate you and want to see you miserable. goodbye. (trio left in various states of concern, shock, and anger)

dialogue 2

NM (much more silly+conniving personality): hey guys welcome to the castle! (he's holding open the door to an absolute dogshit shack held together by like 4 nails in the middle of a disturbingly drippy and muddy and sticky swamp. killer's tugging his foot out of a puddle with both hands.)

option 3

the exterior is the dogshit shack and horrible swamp and the inside is like some TARDIS bullshit where it is just impossibly massive and impeccably clean void. can be especially funny if nightmare gets really fucking mad at mud on the interior

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

I've been dreaming of my First Friend.

In this strange new world, nothing is certain—not even one’s safety.

But through it all, you were with me. Always by my side.

Please don’t leave me behind.

How does a moment last forever? How can a story never die?

"Grrr...! This stupid thing won't close," Grim complains. He fumbles with the buttons on his robes, which refuse to be secured.

"That's because you've got two left thumbs... or, more accurately, no thumbs at all," his human companion teases. They crouch down, gesturing for him. "Here, I'll help you."

"Myahaha, that's my minion!" Grim scrambles over on all fours—definitely not like a cat. He's far more dignified than some glorified house pet or familiar.

"You're going to get your clothes dirty if you walk around like that," they scold him lightly as they cinch his robes shut, then dusts him off. They pause, going in to adjust his waistband, then the angle of his cap. "There you go." "All set for your big day."

"Our big day," Grim corrects, nudging them on the cheek with his paw. "We're a 2-for-1 deal, remember?"

"Right. Me and the almighty Grim-sama," they reply with a laugh, poking his little nose.

An ear-splitting sob disrupts the intimate scene. Three ghosts in top hats and gray cloaks sail in—one small, one plump, one scrawny—all wailing.

"I can't believe this day's finally arrived!"

"Grimmy and Prefect, all grown up... Off to tackle Twisted Wonderland head-on..."

"WAAAAH, I'm gonna miss my living roomies!!"

"Hey, hey, what's with the empty nest syndrome, guys?" The prefect huddles with the ghosts. They cannot physically touch, but the same energy is there, their arms lingering where the ghosts’ bodies float.

“B-But…!”

“Don't worry. No matter the time or place, we'll carry the spirit of Ramshackle dorm with us wherever we go.“ They smile sympathetically. “That means you’ll always be with us! This world, this life… and into the next.”

"D-Do you really think friendships can last more than a lifetime?" one ghost asks through his tears.

"For sure. So please… Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened. Can you do that for us?”

“O-Okay,” the trio blubbers and sniffles.

“Geez, you’re all a buncha babies,” Grim sighs, paws on his hips. “C’mon, we’re supposed to be celebratin’ US today!! Like my minion said, let’s see some smiles, yeah?”

“We’ll come see you off at the ceremony the,” the small ghost suggests. The cheer is strained, like he is holding back a torrent of tears.

"The ceremony…” The prefect’s eyes go wide and panicked. “Oh crap, we're going to be late! The headmaster should already be starting his speech...!"

"Not a problem, leave it to this Grim-sama. A teleportation spell's easy as takin' a tuna can from a kitten!"

"Sorry, guys. Gotta run...! We'll see you there?"

Grim expertly clambers onto the prefect's neck, making himself comfortable as a boa on their shoulders. The magestone dangling from his neck lights up, and the duo are enveloped in its glow.

The last sight before they blip away are the ghosts, waving good-bye with wet eyes.

A blink later, the two are among a crowd of students in the same uniform as them. Long robes, graduation caps affixed to their heads. They're lined up behind a stage, the curtain stained the dark sapphire of a night sky and dotted with sparkling stars.

Crowley's voice drones from the other side, amplified by a microphone. A waiting crowd murmurs appreciatively as he crows on about hard work, congratulations, and new beginnings.

"See?" Grim winks at his minion. "What'd I tell ya? Anything’s a cinch with my magic~”

"Great going, archmage-in-the-making. You really saved our butts," they say, ruffling his fur. “Come to think of it, were running late for our first day too… and the sorting ceremony before that. I guess we’re destined to be tardy together, huh, Grim?”

"Heh, you got that right!" He bumped his tiny fist with his partner's. “Let’s keep at it, you ‘n me! Grim-sama and his loyal minion, together forever.”

"Oiiiii! Grim, Prefect!!"

"Oh, that’s..."

They glance up, finding a group of boys making their way toward them in the crowd. One with a heart etched onto his face, the other, a spade. A wolf beastman, another with reptilian eyes and slicked back hair, trailed by a smaller, delicate boy and an android with a head of blue flames. Old friends from the other dorms.

"There you are. We thought we'd missed you." Deuce calls out, looking relieved.

"Idiot, we wouldn’t have missed them—you worried for nothin’. They're first on the chopping block cuz they're sooo special." Ace rolls his eyes. "Lu~cky. You get to show off and hog the spotlight before anyone else does.”

"We um... wanted to come and say good luck," Epel offers. "It's a big deal to have made it this far. Starting a new life in an unfamiliar world and all, it's a lot."

"Thanks, everyone. I really couldn't have made it these past few years without your support."

"Ah-HEM!" Grim coughs.

"... And Grim," the prefect added, scratching him behind the ears.

"This is really it, then." Jack is blunt, his arms folded. "Our last chapter at Night Raven College."

"Hmph! Is that all you have to say?! Surely you can muster up more oomph than that!! Today is not just that--it is the start of the rest of our lives." Sebek straightens, looking rather proud.

"Hmm..." Ortho taps at his chin contemplatively. "You know what? When words are not enough to express ourselves, action may be the next best thing!"

"... Wait, what exactly are you suggesting?" Ace asks suspiciously, an eyebrow raised.

"A group hug! For one final sendoff."

Sebek is the first to protest, his voice cutting through loud and clear. "I refuse!! There is absolutely NO WAY I am engaging in physical intimacy with you humans!"

"Not so hot on the idea either."

Ace and Deuce warily stare at each other. "Not happening," they chorus at the same time.

"Well, if the others don't want to, then..." Epel trails off.

"Guys, shut up and group hug already," the prefect groans, throwing their arms around their friends. Reluctant grumbles round the group, but no one makes an active effort to peel away.

“GACK!!” Grim chokes out, crushed between everyone’s chests. When their bodies recede, he collapses, vision spinning, seeing stars.

“Hahah, looks like Grim got flattened like a pancake,” Ace jeers. “Still got it in ya to waltz on stage after that?”

“C-Can it!! Of course I do!” he snaps back.

The timing is opportune. Right then, Crowley’s speech reaches them, a summons.

“… We will now begin calling up our students to receive their diplomas, starting with Ramshackle Dorm.”

“Looks like that’s our cue, Grim.”

“Let’s get goin’!!”

The prefect steps back and passes one final look to their peers. People from many different places, many different backgrounds. United at last.

“Go.”

They do.

Clutching onto their graduation cap, the prefect races up the steps from the wings. Grim bounding along by their side. Every stride equal against the other’s.

Like shooting stars, they’ve come so far. They can’t go back to where they used to be.

When they emerge from the darkness, they’re hit with bright sunshine and stage lights. Spring is in full bloom, welcoming them with balmy weather and armfuls of flowers.

The headmaster beams from behind a podium, gesturing for them to approach. In his grasp, two scrolls secured with navy ribbons.

Their diplomas.

“Presenting Grim and the Prefect, our special students sharing the spot of Valedictorian.”

Grim squeals, soaked up the adoration. He waves at the audience, flashes silly poses for the cameras. The prefect laughs, prodding him along with their hands.

“Come on, let’s not stall the ceremony for everyone else.”

“One moment.”

A smallish figure blocks their path. It’s a young man with crimson hair and heart-shaped ahoge. He holds out his hand--and the prefect, stunned, takes it.

"Riddle-senpai. You've returned."

"Prefect. Grim." He politely greets them, shaking their hands in turn. "May the Queen of Hearts and her spirit of strictness guide you as you cross this threshold in life. Remain disciplined, and I know you will both achieve even greater things."

Riddle releases, and another seizes their hands. This shake is rougher, looser.

"Congrats, you survived four years at this place," Leona purrs. He wears less of a smile and more of a bemused smirk. "Persisted, like the King of Beasts did."

His duty done, he casually drops them. Azul elegantly ducks in, his grasp firm and tone professional.

"Fufu. What an honor it is to reunite like this. Your benevolence has done much to improve our dear Night Raven College. The Sea Witch would surely extol your generosity."

"Prefect, Grim!!"

Azul steps back with a bow, making space for the next person.

Kalim practically collides with them, excitedly yanking their hands up and down as he chatters. "So good to see you again!! Gahahah, you haven't changed a bit! I bet you're much wiser now though--maybe just as mindful as the Sorcerer of the Sands was!”

Behind him, someone clears their throat. Awareness hits him and Kalim gasps, letting go of the graduates.

"It takes considerable tenacity to arrive at this milestone,” Vil says, clasping the prefect and Grim’s hands in his own. Then, he smiles ever so slightly. “… Be proud, potatoes. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed by the Beautiful Queen.”

He steps aside, allowing a gloomy, hooded figure to replace him. Idia grimaces, shielding his eyes from the lights glaring down at him.

“Tch… Dragged me out here for this,” he mutters, keeping his clammy, pale hands shoved squarely into his hoodie pockets.

A pause—and Idia managed an anxious smile. “GG or whatever. I guess even an amateur can clear hard levels if they’re diligent enough. The King of the Underworld was a noob at one point too.”

(“Is that really the most encouraging thing you could muster?” Vil tuts from the sidelines.)

With that, Idia shuffles off, joining the other ex-dorm leaders.

“Nyahahah, it feels nice to be recognized~” Grim snickers.

“Well, I certainly hope you haven’t had your fill yet.”

A frigid touch comes upon the prefect and Grim’s hands. That voice, like sudden nightfall. They find themselves staring up at a colossal shadow with leering green eyes, scales studding their forehead.

"M-Myah?!” Grim’s fur stands on end.

“Even you came, Tsunotaro!!” the prefect gasps.

“I wouldn’t miss this ceremony for the world,” Malleus smoothly reassures them. “I wished to lend my support to my dear friends and send them off with my blessing.”

He raises his arms to the open sky. Bright blue, barely a cloud in it. Sunlight pouring down, framing the ceremony in a golden spotlight.

“The Thorn Fairy’s utmost value is nobility. As you of the new generation sally forth into the world, let your souls shine as noble and true as her own.“

Uproarious applause rises, cheering and clapping combining into one frantic melody. The flowers blush, swelling large and healthy with color. The sun itself seems to brighten too, the wind lifting in a joyous, effervescent song.

“Congratulations...!!”

“Waaaah, Tsunotaro made the whole world light up!” Grim cries, eyes sparkling. “Heheh, okay, that’s a pretty good one—but watch out cuz one day I’ll be one of the top 5 strongest, most charismatic mages too!”

“Fufufu. I look forward to that day.”

Malleus bends down, his lips puling back to reveal luminous teeth.

“May you never be apart,” he whispers, so quiet that no one hears. Then, more loudly, “Congratulations. I wish you all a happily ever after.”

“I dunno what you’re goin’ on about, but thanks for hypin’ us up!!” Grim grins from ear to ear. “Today’s definitely… the best day ever!”

“I’m glad of it.”

And may it remain that way, forevermore.

[heimeldat]

Do they count as a TARDIS team when they didn't use the TARDIS? Anyway, I doodled one of my favorite trios.

ID: a cartoony drawing of Liz Shaw with the Brigadier and the Third Doctor standing behind her, all looking ready for action. end ID

[stelliyue-cafe]

A/N: First time writing for Love and Deepspace- (More notes at the end). 

Fic Notes: 

SLIGHT CHAPTER 4 SPOILERS

Canon divergence(?)

The number of times I had this song on REPEAT as I wrote this

Pairing: Caleb / Female! Reader

Genre: Mutual pining; Slow burn; Fluff; Romance; Angst

Summary: Falling in love with Caleb wasn’t love at first sight. Falling in love with him was more like a thief in the night- unexpected.

Growing up with Grandma exposed her to two people: Caleb and Zayne.

Caleb had invited her and Zayne over. Why bother having two different playdates when he could have one playdate with his two best friends in the world, right?

She looked up at the boy standing in front of her. “You’re the famous Zayne that he keeps rambling about. Besides getting into the Aerospace Academy, you’re all he ever talks about.”

“He talks about me?” Zayne asked, a bit shocked.

She nodded. “Mhm!” 

“Zayne! (Y/N)! You’re here!” Caleb said, running into the backyard where they had been waiting.

“About time, Caleb.” Zayne scolded, his arms crossing over his chest.

Caleb put up his hands in defense. “I was only five minutes late, Zayne!”

“Then next time, you should set an alarm.”

She laughed at their small argument. “You two act so much like brothers!”

They stared at each other before Caleb joined in on the laughter. Zayne huffed, his friend’s tardiness erased from his mind.

~*~*~

Caleb and Zayne were like the brothers she never had. Despite going to different schools, she was there for them as they were for her. They always walked her to and from school. They studied, played, and had sleepovers. And as the years went by, the trio became inseparable. Following the boys she looked up to so much, she did everything she could to get into the same private university. Sure, it was a difficult process, but her hard work was worth it.

She loved Caleb and Zayne and she told them every single day. Yet… there was a different subtext whenever she told Caleb that, but she couldn’t put her finger on it.

“You’re dating the one guy in your coding class, right? Yet you set everything aside for Caleb and Zayne. Not to mention the whole saying “I love you” to them. Is your boyfriend okay with that?” The words of her friend echoed in her mind as she walked home.

“That’s a stupid question.” She muttered. “I love them, but in a familial, platonic kind of way.”

“(Y/N)!”

Her gaze shifted up from the concrete to the direction of the voice that called her. “Zayne?” She breathed out.

She stopped as he caught up to her. Placing his hands on her shoulders, he shook her gently. “Are you okay? Are you hurt? After our classes ended, Caleb told me that you weren’t feeling well.”

(Y/N) blinked, putting her hands up in reassurance. “I’m fine, Zayne! I just have a small headache.”

His eyes looked up and down, head tilting left and right, making sure she had no symptoms of any other illness. Zayne grumbled, cursing Caleb under his breath. She held onto his arms, comforting him. “Hey… I’m okay.”

He exhaled as he released his grip from her shoulders. “He exaggerated, didn’t he?”  He said, letting his hands drop to his sides.

She giggled, already walking past him. “I swear, you believe him a little too easily sometimes.”

“Hey, I was worried.” He said, turning to catch up with her. Now walking at her side, he continued. “I promised your grandmother that I’d watch you both.”

They continued to walk in the semi-comforting silence. The street lights lighting their way home. The conversation stopped there, leaving a lingering tension. It wasn’t a bad feeling. More like- there was something else that needed to be said.

‘It’s not me you should be concerned about. Caleb worries and cares about you more than I ever could.’

“Hello?”

“Hello, just called to update you on the status of his exams,” Zayne replies.

“Wait, is that (Y/N)?” She heard a second voice ask.

“Of course, it’s-”

“(Y/N)! Guess what happened!” She heard Caleb butt in, taking the phone from Zayne.

She laughed. “How’d the exam go? What happened?”

“I got into the Aerospace Academy!” He cheered.

“Caleb, that’s amazing! I’m so proud of you! You deserve it!” She cheered.

“Thanks (Y/N). You’ve always been my number one supporter!”

“And what am I? The understudy? I got into the top residency program in the city, can I get some applause?” Zayne mumbled.

“I heard that, Doctor Zayne!” 

“I’m not a licensed doctor yet.”

“We should go out and celebrate this weekend!” Caleb suggested.

“Of course! Just text me the details.”

“For sure! Alright, we’ll stop bugging you now! Come on, Doctor Z.”

“Give my phone back,” A small pause. “and (Y/N), don’t be like Caleb and overwork yourself, okay?”

“I won’t, but the same goes for you.” She huffed.

“Promise?”

“I promise.”

“Good. See you tomorrow.”

“Yeah, see you tomorrow.”

CLICK!

She put her phone back in her pocket and walked back inside the library. Her boyfriend took a break from his laptop and looked up. “What was that all about?”

“Oh! Caleb got into the Aerospace Academy and Zayne got into his residency program which I think is pretty cool!”

Her rambling fell to deaf ears as he had enough of her constant babble about her friends. “(Y/N), we need to talk.”

“I’m sure we can talk about it later! Come on, we need to study!” She said, sitting back down and pulling her textbook close.

“(Y/N), will you just listen?” He groaned in frustration.

She closed her textbook. “This sounds serious. What’s on your mind?”

“What I’m trying to say is…”

“Is…?”

“I’ve been thinking about this for a long while now…” He paused, all prior confidence leaving him in that instant- insecurities quickly filling his mind. 

Despite Caleb and Zayne being her childhood friends, her boyfriend thought they were the type of guys that he hoped she’d avoid, but he wouldn’t blame her if she didn’t. They were skilled, intelligent, and popular. Who wouldn’t want to be like them?

“Hey, if you have something important to say, then say it.” She said, trying to get his attention.

“I… I want to break up.”

“Oh, okay.” Her expression softened.

“That’s it? That’s all you have to say?”

“What else is there to say? You’re the one that wants to break up.” 

An uncomfortable silence filled the room. She wanted to say more, but she decided against it. Her eyes went back to her textbook as she slowly reached for her pencil. “We can finish this exercise and we can call it a day.” The sound of flipping pages and pencil lead scratching against the paper made the room feel so much bigger, and her feeling so much smaller. 

Once the work was completed, they parted ways. “See you at school, (Y/N).”

“Yeah, you too.” She didn’t like the heavy, yet empty feeling that sat in her heart.

~*~*~

Observant as ever, Caleb and Zayne knew something was wrong. However, it didn’t take long for the news to reach their ears. No words were exchanged when they looked at each other. They just nodded, knowing that they were going to do whatever it took to cheer up their best friend.

After classes, they made their way to the convenience store to buy ice cream and other snacks. When they got to her place, her grandmother let them in right away. She knew that if anyone could cheer her up, it was those two.

Now, actively ignoring her best friends was a bad idea, but it wasn’t her first breakup. The weight of it all was too much to bear, and she knew she had to be strong. Besides, what did they know about healing hearts? Zayne knew how to fix a heart in the literal sense, not metaphorical, and Caleb was usually the cause of his fangirls’ broken hearts. Granted, he wasn’t leading them on, he just wasn’t ready for a relationship, but that didn’t soften the blow of rejection.

Her head rested on the pillow she held close to her chest. Her hair was unkempt and the tears kept flowing down her cheeks. Earbuds were playing the music that once brought her joy. The words that made her heart flutter were now just a painful reminder of what she once had. When she saw her ex in class, he seemed unphased by the break-up. He smiled brighter. Last night, she was so nonchalant about it, so why was she crying now?

She hated being alone while being in a headspace like the one she was in now. It caused her to overthink, but she didn’t want to burden her loved ones with such trivial problems.

The sound of faint knocks on her door broke her from her spiral of intrusive thoughts, causing her to look up from her tear-stained pillow and towards the door. She sniffled, wiping her nose with her sleeve. 

Brushing the hair that stuck to her cheeks, she cleared her throat. “I’m fine, grandma! Just need some alone time…” She said, her voice coming to a whisper by the end.

She heard the doorknob turn which caused her to panic. She gripped onto the fabric of her pillowcase. “I said!-”

“Hey, we heard what happened,” Zayne said as he slowly opened the door. He and Caleb slowly made their way to the edge of her bed, snacks in hand.

“B-But we can leave if you want some alone time.” Caleb cut in.

Who were they kidding? How could they possibly make her feel better? Surely, she’d want the company of her girl friends. They’d know what to do, right?

She didn’t meet their gaze at first, her fingers now playing with the fabric. Could she depend on them for temporary comfort? It wasn’t until she heard the bag full of snacks being placed on the work desk that made her look up at them. She quickly grabbed the sleeve of Caleb’s jacket.

“Please don’t leave…”

“We weren’t planning to,” Caleb replied, sitting down next to her on the mattress. Zayne sat down on her other side, rubbing circles on her back.

‘If you were mine, I’d never hurt you.’ Caleb thought as she continued to cry into his shoulder. But he knew better.

To say he had a crush was an understatement. No- Caleb was in love with her. Despite him wanting to be something more, her happiness and feelings came first. They were friends and that’s all they ever were.

“Caleb… I-”

“You need a pick me up?”

“Yeah…”

“Zayne said he’s got things to do so he can’t make it. But I’ll be there in twenty-five, okay?”

“That’s okay. Zayne has already done so much and I don’t mind spending some time with just you.”

He chuckled. “Do you want me to bring some snacks?”

“Yes, please! Do you know those honey butter chips? Could you get some of those?” (Y/N) sniffled.

“Of course. Okay, I’ll start heading over. See you soon.”

“See ya soon…”

CLICK!

When Caleb walked inside, he almost dropped the bag due to her almost immediately bear-hugging him. “Whoa, (Y/N)! At least let me put down my bag.” He said, awkwardly patting her head.

Once she let go, they walked into the living room and settled on the couch. Caleb pulled out a bag of honey butter chips and handed it to her. She mumbled a small thanks.

They both sat in silence as she munched on the crunchy heaven. He knew that something wasn’t right. He felt like he was stepping around eggshells as he tried to figure out a way to start talking to her, not knowing what to say or how to say it.

“(Y/N)… Are you okay?”

She paused for a moment and put the bag of chips down. “I’m just… having a hard time lately. Exams, some group projects that I’ve had to shoulder most of the weight, and moving on from him. I loved him! I gave my all to him, but he said I spent too much time with you guys…” She sighed.

Caleb gave her a sympathetic look, trying to understand what she was going through. Who was he kidding? He couldn’t possibly put himself in her shoes.

His mouth opened as if he wanted to say something, but closed back up in fear of making the situation worse. Instead of saying a thing, he moved the chip bag to the table and scooted closer to her. He gently grabbed her wrist before pulling her into a hug, holding her firmly but gently in his embrace.

He knew that under her confident, carefree yet hardworking personality, she carried the world on her shoulders. She ran fast- her head was always looking forward, preparing for the next phase of her life, always analyzing, always changing. She laughed hard- even at the most trivial things, like Zayne having rice crumbs on his face because the food was so good that all manners were out the door. And she was kind- she tried her damn hardest to accommodate everyone’s concerns.

To Caleb, actions spoke louder than words. When it came to hugging her, he knew to make sure that she was the first one to pull away. “Things will get better… Zayne and I? We’ll always be here for you. And your other friends too. Just don’t be afraid to ask for help.” He whispered.

“Thank you, Caleb.” She replied softly.

(Y/N) sniffled, burying her head into his shoulder, her tears wetting his jacket. He held her tighter, rubbing circles on her back, trying to soothe her. After a while of quiet sobs and sniffles, she pulled away, looking up at him. “Thank you so much.”

Caleb leaned in and kissed her forehead. “You’re welcome.”

~*~*~

The months passed by and graduation had finally arrived. “Stop thinking too far ahead, (Y/N)! We just graduated.” Caleb said, playfully nudging her shoulder as they walked away from the university campus.

“I have to agree. You need to learn to live in the moment.” Zayne jokes, nudging her other side.

“Hey!” She squeaked as she bumped into Caleb’s side.

“Careful, (Y/N)! I won’t be here to catch you all the time~” Caleb teased, gently holding onto her arm, making sure she was steady.

Zayne huffed. “That’s why I’m here to make sure you two don’t do anything dumb.”

She rolled her eyes, playfully smacking their arms with her diploma case. “Ugh, you two are so mean to me!”

The crimson sky soon faded to a dark shade of navy blue. The stars were more evident than ever. The winter winds were making their last rounds before handing the torch to spring.

As they made their way home, Caleb and Zayne got lost in their conversation about their future endeavors. She ended up trailing behind, but still close enough to hear their rambling.

When she looked up, it came to her attention how much taller they were. Since they were little, the three of them were always similar in height. Now they were giants. Giants with plans for the future. Up until that day, she always looked forward. Now, she wanted nothing more than to look back- for this moment in time to stand still.

~*~*~

Zayne was aware of their late-night rendezvous. It started with the three of them sneaking out to buy ice cream and watch television until the ungodly hours of the night. But as he caught on to their feelings for each other, he purposefully made excuses to not go.

“Zayne didn’t answer. So I guess he fell asleep.” Caleb said, slightly relieved. 

“Let him sleep. We can hang out without him!” She cheered in a hushed tone, careful not to wake her grandmother.

“I feel bad. You’re getting good at Mario Kart. You might beat Zayne next time.” He teased, interlocking his pinky with hers.

She adjusted her hold, now fully holding his hand. “Don’t tell him that! Then I might feel bad when I inevitably win~” She said, feeding into their banter. She tugged on his hand, “Let’s go get the snacks first!”

It didn’t even register in his mind that they were holding hands until he noticed that his thumb was rubbing hers.  Caleb looked down at their hands just as she began to pull away. He took that as a sign to gently squeeze her hand in reassurance.

That night, they did their usual activities. They ate the snacks as they raced each other on different tracks. (Y/N) throwing a pillow at his face to shut him up when he groaned in frustration when she bumped him off the track on Rainbow Road. Then they proceeded to watch movies, cuddled up in each other's arms.

Every time they had their late-night hangouts, their feelings for each other increased just a bit more. They fell in love for the night, but when they woke up, they would forget- or rather, push aside said feelings- in the morning.

From an outsider’s point of view, they’d think of them as a couple. And in a sense, they were. In everything, but the title.

“Caleb, who are we waiting for?” Rafayel asked, his hands resting on his hips. Waiting for a fifth person was not how he wanted to spend his day.

“Chill, Raf! She’s about five minutes away.” Caleb pouted.

“You’re bringing your girlfriend to our hangout?” Xavier added.

“What happened to the bro code?”

“Not his girlfriend,” Zayne mumbled.

Before anyone could say anything else, (Y/N) turned the corner. “Caleb! Zayne!” She cheered, running to the friends she missed so much. 

Caleb held his arms out, bracing for impact from her hug. Being used to her surprise hugs, he braced himself. When she ran into his embrace, she relaxed, nuzzling her face into his shoulder as he wrapped his arms around her waist. 

‘Lavender and vanilla.’ He thought as he caught a whiff of her perfume.

He took a step back, making sure he was steady before setting her down. Once letting him go, she went over to hug Zayne. “Sorry, Z!” She said sheepishly.

“It’s fine, (Y/N)!” Zayne said, patting her head whilst giving her a side hug.

“Care to introduce us, Caleb?” Rafayel asked.

She removed herself from Caleb’s side to introduce herself. “Nice to meet you! I’m (Y/N)!” 

“I’m Rafayel!”

“Xavier.”

After breaking the ice, the five of them started to make their way to the nearest cafe. Rafayel and Xavier had already warmed up to her. “(Y/N)! You’re so sweet and kind! Smart, but you can kick ass too!” Rafayel started.

Xavier hummed. “I thought a guy like Caleb would be the type of guy you’d avoid.” He said, continuing his friend’s train of thought.

Caleb wrapped his arm around her shoulders. "Don't waste your time on jealous guys, (Y/N). You know you love us. And by us, I mean, me."

She let out a snort. “That’s subjective.”

He gasped whilst dramatically placing his hand over his chest. “Zayne! Make her take it back!” He said, earning a burst of laughter from his other friends.

Zayne shrugged, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. “That’s not for me to decide.”

Seeing her interact and get along with his other friends was everything he ever wanted. As the outing continued, Rafayel had taken more of a liking to her. “You’re as cute as a goldfish!” She teased.

“Yeah, and this goldfish needs protecting! So get to it, Miss Bodyguard!”

Caleb’s head quickly turned in their direction. Wait, where was his cute animal association?

Xavier chuckled. “Oh, that’s gold. I’m never going to let you live that down.”

A blush tinted Rafayel’s cheeks. “Piss off, Xavier!”

“(Y/n)-”  Caleb started before Zayne nudged his side. They didn’t exchange any words, but Caleb understood. He knew better.

The years went by in a flash and they were right by her side, just like they promised. When Caleb left for the Academy, their trio was reduced to a duo. Sure it was a bit difficult to adjust the dynamic of the group, but they made it work. She made sure that she and her friends never lost touch. 

But Caleb always came back for the holidays. They sat at a table at the cafe closest to her grandmother’s house. “If I had the time to do a full analysis paper on this, I would. I’m not boring you, am I, Caleb?” She asked, wondering if he’d even be interested in hearing what she had to say about her most recent hyper-fixation.

Caleb nodded. “No, please continue. You want to talk about something you love and no one should shut you down for it.” He said before taking a sip of his coffee.

She flashed a smile at him. God, he could look at that smile forever. 

He stared at her in awe. In his eyes, she was still the same girl as she was in university, ever so analyzing. During his school years, he was able to improve his people skills. Being more observant, he noticed the small things about her. The way she’d tap her feet to the beat of the song, yet her fingers were tapping the melody. The face of anticipation she had whenever she’d gotten a new idea for her next project. The list went on.

She giggled, breaking him from his thoughts. “Thanks for listening, Caleb. I feel like I have to hide this side of me from this guy I’ve been seeing. He and I have been on a couple of dates, but we never made anything official yet... I think he's still in love with his ex. And I don’t blame him. Just hearing about the way he talks about her… He’s in love with her and I don’t want to get in the way of that.” She said, rubbing the lid of her latte.

Even though she was fixated on her cup, his eyes were fixated on her. He chuckled. “I've listened to Zayne talk about anything and EVERYTHING for years. I can handle a little nerd talk from you. And you shouldn’t be with someone who makes you feel like you need to censor yourself.”

When she looked up, their eyes met and he felt it. His heart skipped a beat.

“Don’t look at me like that or I might fall in love with you.” She teased. Lies- she was already in love with him.

Caleb’s departure date was nearing quicker than expected. And she wanted to spend as much time with him as she could- she regretted not doing that with Caleb before he left the first time. 

After a full day of activities, they made their way to Caleb’s hotel room. When they reached their destination, they rushed inside and leaned against the door to catch their breath.

“Caleb… Never make me run... in uncomfortable shoes... ever again.” (Y/N) said between breaths.

“Duly noted.”  Caleb chuckled, resting the back of his head against the wall. “You know… You're the most amazing person I've ever met. (Y/N), when I'm with you I don't feel so... alone.”

A pause. “Sometimes it's better to be alone.” She said, rubbing her upper arms.

“What makes you say that?” He asked, pushing himself off the wall.

“Nobody can hurt you.” She said, trying her best to not look at him.

“(Y/N)... Are you afraid to fall in love?”  He quickly replied.

"No- I'm afraid of being the only one who falls." She turned to face him, not realizing how close they were to each other. Her mouth acted faster than her brain could comprehend. 

“I know you’re going back to the academy tomorrow. I’ll be left alone. Sure there’s Rafayel and Xavier and I don’t know them as well as you and Zayne do. But spending time without you this past year made me realize things. And I don’t know if I’m in denial or what, but I feel something for you. I can’t explain it, but my heart beats just a bit faster when I’m around you and I don’t want to assume things… So, let's both do ourselves a favor and stop this before we-”

He glanced down at her and pressed his lips against hers. Shocked at his actions he pulled away. “I’m sorry…” 

“Caleb…” She blushed before looking at his lips and then met his eyes. “Could you do that again?”

“A-Are you sure?”

“Just kiss me.” 

He nodded, kissing her once again- this time with more emotion. She froze but found herself reciprocating with the same passion. They drowned in each other. Once it started, they couldn't bring themselves to stop. He could feel the connection that was between them and she could too.

They pulled away for air. "I'm sorry, Caleb.” She apologized.

“Shh…”  Caleb leaned into her until his lips were inches away from hers. "Let’s pretend that we love each other for one night…"

… It wasn’t pretending for either of them.

However, the topic of their feelings was pushed to the back of their minds when Caleb suggested that they spend their last night together eating snacks and watching movies.

When the sun rose the next morning, she woke up in the arms of the man she loved. Nothing happened after the kiss-it just got a bit heated. Their hands explored each other like newfound territory, but it was only on the surface: Messy hair, wrinkled clothes, and heavy breaths.

Rays of sunshine peeked through the curtains, waking her up from her peaceful slumber. Deciding to close the curtains, she tried to sit up, but the weight of Caleb’s arm wrapped around her waist prevented her from doing so. 

"It's too early for us to be up..." His husky voice rang out in the quiet room. She slowly turned in his hold to face him.

"Caleb… You’re leaving today.” She whispered, running her fingers through his bedhead. 

"I know… Can we just stay like this for a little longer?” He muttered, burying his face in the crook of her neck, making her sigh in content. They stayed like that for a while, his arms wrapped protectively around her, and she almost fell asleep, only to force herself to stay awake. 

"Caleb! We need to get you to the station."

Caleb shook his head, making her chuckle at his childish behavior. "But (Y/N)~" He pouted, his eyes still closed, as he tightened his grip on her waist, just enough to keep her at bay. Seeing no clear way to victory, she sighed, giving in for just a moment longer.

~*~*~

No amount of handbooks, study guides, or crash course videos could prepare them for this moment. Now at the train station, they leaned against the railing near the seating area. They’d gotten there in advance so they could avoid any last-minute casualties that could occur.

They spent those moments listening to Caleb’s playlist that he made consisting of songs that reminded him of their friendship. From various genres, (Y/N) smiled at the song choices. What he failed to remember was the one love song that was in that playlist.

“Let’s fall in love for the night and forget in the morning.”

“Hey! I love this song!” (Y/N) cheered.

“Yeah? Me too.”  Caleb stuttered, moving his head to the side to hide his blush. 

“Play me a song that you like, you can bet I’ll know every line.” She sang along softly, but Caleb could hear it.

“Cause I’m the boy that your boy hoped that you would avoid. Don’t waste your time on jealous guys, fuck that noise. I know better than to call you mine.” He chuckled at the line he sang.

“Caleb! Language, what would granny say!” She scolded, playfully smacking his arm.

“It’s just lyrics, (Y/N)!” He replied, rubbing the area of impact.

She smiled at him, wanting to savor their last moments together. 

They spent years hiding their feelings behind shy smiles, hugs that lasted way too long, and hand-holding that always carried a romantic subtext. They had suspicions of each other’s feelings, yet they did nothing about it after that.

The song was only 3 minutes and 10 seconds long, but to them, it felt like an eternity. They hummed along to the song, with Caleb singing the lyrics near the end. They wished they had more time.

“Cause I’m the boy that your boy hoped that you would avoid. Don’t waste your time on jealous guys, fuck that noise. I know better,”  He sang as he faced her, having the courage to hold her hands in his.

(Y/N) blinked the sudden gesture. She realized that this was it. This was his confession, albeit a somber one, but a confession nonetheless. “Caleb… Don’t finish the song…” She whispered.

“I know better…” He sighed deeply, lifting one of his hands to cup her cheek. Caleb knew that would be the last he’d ever see her until the next holiday. His eyes met her gaze as he thought about the missed opportunities.

‘She deserves better. Someone who isn’t afraid to admit their feelings.’ He thought. 

Caleb kissed her forehead. “I know better than to ever call you mine.” He sang, soft enough that only she could hear. She gasped before he pulled away. Caleb gave her a slight nod before turning to walk over to his gate. The smell of lavender and vanilla slightly lingered around him.

And like before, they fell in love for the night and forgot in the morning.

End notes: 

Woke up and chose violence :) Every time I write angst, let’s drink a glass of water. 

I don’t think my friend is ever going to listen to sad love songs around me anymore.

stelliyue-cafe © 2024 | all content and its rights belong to me. please do not modify or repost.

[cacti-are-like-flamingos]

Enter Sandman

Gojo Satoru x Reader x Geto Suguru

The Cursed Trio | Lover is a Day

**poor Gojo. what did he do to deserve this hehe

**so sorry for the tardiness, I had a hyperfixation on CoD men and physically couldn't continue until it went away 💀

...

Gojo couldn't pinpoint exactly when he sensed the change, but it was undeniably there. It wasn't a glaring transformation; instead, it manifested subtly through the way you and Suguru interacted. He had always recognized that the two of you were cut from the same cloth, born of the same feather - you could use any analogy, but the essence remained the same.

Even without the benefit of his Six Eyes, Gojo couldn't overlook how close you and Suguru had become. Initially, he didn't mind it, or at least he convinced himself as much. He attempted to brush off the feeling as best as he could, but he couldn't help but notice how you slightly tensed under his touch yet effortlessly melted into Suguru's warmth. He observed it in the way Suguru openly expressed his emotions to you, and how you reciprocated, all while Gojo remained in the dark.

The ironic part is, he couldn't harbor resentment over it. Especially not when both of you made sincere efforts to include him in every aspect.

Whenever you ventured around with Kento and Haibara, you'd return with an assortment of captivating trinkets, gifting them all to Gojo. Each one somehow reminding you of him. Your manner of bestowing these gifts had a certain nonchalance to it, as if the act was more of a hassle. Yet, Gojo could easily discern the genuine satisfaction that flickered in your eyes each time he accepted your offerings with a smile.

(Side Note: His room, once relatively bare within the mansion, had now transformed into an overabundance of these seemingly insignificant items you had collected during your travels. Few were privy to this fact, but he had explicitly instructed the servants not to disturb these items, opting to personally tend to their cleaning whenever the dust settled. However, based on how frequently he handled them, barely a speck of dust managed to find its way onto them.)

Each morning, on his way to Jujutsu High, Suguru would purchase konbini delicacies for Gojo. The bag would be packed with an assortment of ready-to-eat foods, including an egg salad sandwich, three garlic and mayonnaise-laden pork sausage onigiris, a variety of puddings, and a couple of those sparkling water drinks that Gojo was obsessed with.

(Side Note: Suguru, naturally, would purchase some food for you as well. However, just to ruffle your feathers, he'd opt for items you'd never laid your taste buds on before. Since your arrival in Japan, you'd ventured into trying a variety of new cuisines and managed to identify some go-to favorites that you indulged in regularly. Yet, this man had a peculiar penchant for introducing you to peculiar flavors that either awakened your palate or left you traumatized by their taste.)

(Add-On: Not to imply he didn't also buy your beloved comfort foods. Those were discreetly stashed away in his backpack. Given how often he pulled this trick, you usually had to wrestle his backpack off his shoulders just to access your treats. And then, Gojo would swoop in and grab them before you, playfully holding them above your head, taunting and teasing you.)

Either way, Gojo couldn't shake the feeling that something transpired between you and Suguru last week. The exact timing eluded him, but what he does know is that both of you were absent from school for two consecutive days before eventually resurfacing. There were no messages in either group chat, no responses to Gojo's texts—just an absolute wall of silence.

When the duo finally returned, it was almost as if nothing had occurred. They deftly evaded every inquiry with well-practiced nonchalance, much to Gojo's exasperation. And then came the shift in Suguru's and his behavior towards you. Well, if being honest, it wasn't entirely novel. Suguru had always displayed a protective streak when it came to you. Think back to the time Gojo accidentally hurt you during a footsie game beneath the table. If looks could kill, Gojo would've been six feet under by now.

Nevertheless, his protective instincts towards you had become subtly more pronounced. He hovered closely, always a step behind, though it might be attributed to your joint missions together. It appeared the higher-ups had taken pity on you, transitioning you from solo missions to partnered ones.

Throughout the week, the two of you had been dispatched on various missions. Occasionally, when Gojo completed his assignments early (he had been partnered with Kento, and their compatibility was less than stellar; Haibara had been granted a day off due to a mild illness), he would swing by to check in on you and Suguru. And he had to confess, watching the two of you collaborate to vanquish curses was truly a remarkable sight.

So, with your cursed chains, you've got this knack for putting curses in a tight spot, just enough time for Suguru to work his magic and send them packing. But, you know, you two aren't into keeping things simple. Nope, you like to go all out and make curses' lives a little more interesting.

Picture this: you set up traps that are like a spider's web, and the curses are the unlucky bugs that end up stuck right in the middle. The real brilliance? Suguru's the maestro who guides these curses right into your web of chains. It's like teamwork made in heaven.

What Suguru truly values about working with you is your unique ability to alter the core of curses. Your chains aren't limited to subduing; they possess the exceptional capability to absorb and transform. Through this absorption, you wield the power to modify various aspects of curses, turning their own energy against them and granting Suguru an edge in his exorcism efforts

When Suguru takes in curses, he's devouring the darkest fragments of humanity. So, when you saw him extend his hand toward a writhing mass of malevolence, you couldn't help but offer to share the load.

He hesitated, his doubt hanging in the air like a fading whisper. It was almost as if he feared believing in your words, as if hope itself was a fragile thing. Yet, in that unspoken trust you both held, he conceded. So he stood there, silently watching your graceful dance of spiritual chains, invisible to all but the likes of Gojo.

When it was time, you handed it back to him, and he consumed it, slowly, cautiously. It was like witnessing a smile returning to his eyes, a spark reigniting in the depths of his being. The taste was...nothingness. And the pain, the relentless ache he usually carried, dissipated dramatically.

You'll forever hold onto that memory, of his dark green aura lightening, his eyes turning toward you with a glimmer of hope and something deeper, something you dared not name.

Nevertheless, the shift in dynamics among the three of you left Gojo with a bittersweet taste, like the remnants of a fading dream.

He had nurtured a hope, delicate as the petals of a cherry blossom, that the fortress guarding your heart had begun to crumble, revealing the vulnerability he had longed to see mirrored in your eyes.

Yet, like elusive stardust slipping through his fingers, something veiled him from fully breaching the walls surrounding your soul. He wondered in the quiet hours of the night if it was an oversight, a missed note in the melody of your intricate life story.

Memories of that September night hung in the air, suspended like the phases of the moon, each one a query without a response. How had you ventured into the labyrinthine embrace of the Jujutsu world?

It was Ieiri who found herself in the unusual role of comforter—or at least, her unique brand of comfort. If you could even call it that. She had a knack for subtly peppering him with teasing and sly remarks, cleverly diverting his attention from the shift in dynamics. It was her way of dealing with the situation, her way of saying, "I've got your back, even if it means poking fun at you."

Amidst this unspoken tension, their gazes occasionally flicked to catch the fleeting frowns that played on Gojo's lips whenever he observed the interactions between you and Suguru. It was as though they were all tiptoeing around the elephant in the room, leaving Ieiri as the bold soul who chose humor as her weapon of choice in navigating the uncharted waters of this evolving relationship.

(Side Note: Although Kento wasn't particularly fond of Gojo and his often infuriating antics, he couldn't stand to see his...well, let's just call him a "companion," frown. So, from time to time, when Kento was aware that Gojo was in the vicinity, he'd pick up something sweet. He knew Gojo had a soft spot for these treats, so he'd casually toss one in Gojo's direction. Most of the time, it would collide with Gojo's Infinite Void, but occasionally, on those rare moments, the confections would find their way to the back of his head.)

Ieiri had never been one for beating around the bush. So, when the two of you found yourselves once more beneath the weathered embrace of the wooden bridge on campus, stars winking overhead and smoke spiraling around you, she confronted you. Her approach was careful and cautious, an acknowledgment of the gravity that hung in the air.

"Something happened with Suguru, didn't it?" Ieiri inquired, her gaze fixed on the water trickling through her black socks. The nonchalant action struck a dissonant chord within you.

You squinted your eyes, considering briefly the path of feigned ignorance. However, the weight of truth beckoned, and you decided that the burden of falsehood was far too heavy.

With a casual shrug, you admitted, "You could say that."

As she exhaled another plume of smoke, the brunette posed another question, shrouded in the gentle cloak of uncertainty, "And what about me?"

At this, you hesitated, the lines of your brow etched with genuine perplexity.

"I don't follow."

In response to your words, the young teen let out an irritated click of her tongue, a spark of fading fire in her golden-brown eyes. She frowned at her own reflection rippling in the water.

"Of course, you don't."

For a time, the quietude settled between you, punctuated only by the celestial dance of stars above. From your vantage point, nestled beneath the bridge's embrace, you had a perfect view of their shimmering freedom, despite the barrier before you.

They twinkled with a grace foreign to your own world.

"Gojo's sulking."

"I know."

"So, you're ignoring it?"

"...Yeah."

"You're unbelievable, you know that?"

"So, you keep telling me."

Another stretch of silence enveloped you both before you posed a question of your own.

"How exactly... did you find out about the deal?"

Ieiri reached for another stick from the box, drawing closer to you, seeking your assistance in lighting it.

"Overheard it from the Zenin's when Yaga took me over for something."

What?

The atmosphere thickened with tension, a sensation that didn't sit well with the young Shoko. Shifting uncomfortably where she sat, her brunette locks framing her face, she observed you through the rippling reflection in the water.

"Why were you near the Zenin household?" The chill in your voice unsettled her, but she could discern the restraint in your tone, an effort to temper the sharpness.

She offered a nonchalant shrug, attempting to downplay the unease that had settled over the conversation.

"They asked if I could help with a cursed technique gone awry. They didn't divulge many details."

Here we go, mind your words. Ieiri thought.

"What specifically, though?" Ieiri had always placed her trust in you, even after uncovering the layers of your past. Yet, in moments like these, your intensity still sent shivers down her spine, a blend of composure and wrath.

"I...don't know. It's hard to put into words. I mean, I never really saw it clearly — I think it was a person, though. But...it's all so confusing."

In that very moment, it was as if the harmonious symphony of nature — the crickets, the birds, even the whispering wind — had been swallowed by an eerie silence. Even the water, for the briefest of moments, seemed to take on a murky, uncertain hue.

"How come?" Your voice came slowly.

She clicked her tongue, eyes squinting at the ripples, "I swear... it was half-human, half-curse."

Ieiri's revelation hung in the air, a half-human, half-curse entity — a concept so enigmatic it seemed to defy the laws of their world. She had ventured into uncharted territory, and you couldn't resist exhaling a relieved sigh much to her surprise.

"And here, I thought you were going to say something else. Not gonna lie, feels like you're being a bit paranoid, no?"

Perhaps it was the way you suddenly regained your composure that cast doubt upon her words. Your eyes returned to their usual nonchalant demeanor, accompanied by that ever-charming lazy smile she adored so much.

Taking the cigarette from Ieiri's mouth, to her surprise, you allowed the burning end to dance playfully between your fingers, leaving them adorned with soot and a hint of injury.

"I don't think that's possible, Ieiri," you chimed in a sing-song manner. "Though, I must admit, it would be quite the intriguing twist if it were true — as fucked up as that may sound."

It was Ieiri who had to intervene, flicking the burning stick from your fingers, unwilling to witness further harm.

A soft chuckle escaped your lips at her gesture, and your hand reached out for hers. Her skin was smooth, unmarred, in stark contrast to your own. With your thumb, you traced gentle circles upon the back of her hand.

Ieiri found herself almost melting under your touch. It was a rarity, your tactile contact. You allowed a few into your personal sphere — Nanami, Suguru, and Satoru — but even then, physical closeness was a privilege extended sparingly. Ieiri nodded, finding solace in your warmth.

She unveils the box, and with your assistance, a slender stick finds its way into your fingers. You delicately place it upon Ieiri's awaiting lips, a small smile gracing your features as you ignite the tip. Your eyes remain locked onto her warm, brown gaze.

An addiction.

She leans into you, her head resting gently upon your shoulder. Together, you both peer down at the tranquil stream below, while your gaze finds solace in the expanse of the night sky above.

Kindred spirits.

The closest of confidants.

For she is your dearest friend, and you are hers, right?

Right?

Still, a question lingered in the recesses of her thoughts.

Despite the burning desire to give voice to her question, she'd rather keep the peace.

Perhaps, in that moment, it was her silent acquiescence that marked her eventual undoing.

...

(A/N): Nothing in the Jujutsu world is healthy, so don't expect healthy relationships and friendships. Toxicity all the way 😁

Nah, as soon as I saw Idalia heading up to Florida I said nope. Canceled everything. Luckily, I got my concert tickets fully refunded so now I'm a few dollars richer than before. However, for all of my Florida fans, hope you're safe!

Is Ieiri in love with you? That's a good question that I'm willing to explore. (I was in a mood lol)

This is the beginnings of Suguru's and your's unhealthy co-dependency. And I'm not sorry whatsoever.

What Gojo didn't quite grasp was that it wasn't a matter of trust. Instead, it was a deep-seated, almost inexplicable shame that held him back from touching the very edges of your soul.

Your eyes often gravitate towards the night sky, quietly marveling at the stars' freedom, your expression almost content but tinged with a hint of bitterness. It's a testament to your ability to conceal your true feelings.

Conversely, Ieiri's gaze tends to be drawn downward, fixating on the flowing waters below with a solemn demeanor. Witnessing the relentless flow of time as each ripple becomes a reminder of moments slipping away. It's the cruel paradox of her life, forever tied to the present while yearning for the elusive permanence of the past.

The irony lies in their contrasting perspectives, for while you yearn for the freedom of the stars, you remain tethered to your earthly burdens. And Ieiri, who gazes into the depths of time, is paradoxically trapped in the present, unable to escape the relentless flow of existence.

Irony: The act of looking up at the sky has always been viewed as a hopeful action.

Irony: Sitting by a river, holding hands, is an intimate act. Almost romantic. (This is one-sided.)

Some people use pain as a way to ground themselves back in reality. Such as snapping a plastic band on their wrist, pinching themselves, and what-not. But burning yourself is a dangerous and unhealthy method. I only use this is to show your more unhinged side.

The only reason 'Satoru' is used in this episode is because it was written in Ieiri's POV. You have yet to say it yourself.

You are not against gaslighting your friends in order to get what you want. You're not a good person just as you aren't a bad person. You're just a slave to circumstance.

You also know that Ieiri is a fan of physical touch so you use it against her. Confusing her with incredibly intimate actions to distract her.

Just as I was finishing this up, I realized I hadn't turned in an essay that was due the 30th and everyday it's not submitted is 20 points less. Please manifest with me 🥹

Guilt, imprisonment, and something else are your current running theme.

Originally:

I had absolutely no idea what did episode was going to be about.

Initially, this episode was intended to bear the title 'Cirice.' The plan was for it to be chock-full of lore, unveiling some significant, long-held secrets. However, during a call with my bestie, I experienced a breakthrough and made a radical decision to overhaul it entirely. Some of you might have witnessed the chaos I caused with the TCT Masterlist and the TCT Timeline - that was actually me attempting to find the most suitable pacing for everything.

Initially, Suguru was meant to dodge your attempts to retrieve your snacks and dangle them above your head. However, I wanted to incorporate a more trio-based interaction into this scenario.

Ieiri was initially meant for a brief appearance, but fate had other plans.

"...his eyes turning toward you with a glimmer of hope and something deeper, something you dared not name..." The emotion you dared not name is adoration.

"...left Gojo with a bittersweet taste, like the remnants of a fading dream." Is a direct reference to Gojo waking up from his dream. His dream is the Hidden Inventory Arc.

"And what about me?" This is Ieiri's way of asking you if you've not is how your actions impact her personally. When you respond, "I don't follow." You are lying. You do know, you're just ignoring it.

"An addiction..." This line concealed not just her nicotine craving but also her yearning for your undivided attention.

"For she is your dearest friend, and you are hers, right?" It is a direct reference to how Suguru and Gojo are Ieiri's best friends yet she isn't their's.

"...Despite the burning desire to give voice to her question, she'd rather keep the peace..." I'm a firm believer that had Ieiri taken a bit of initiative in creating a more intimate connection with the boys, they might've considered her a best friend. At the very least, a close one.

"...Perhaps, in that moment, it was her silent acquiescence that marked her eventual undoing..." Foreshadowing.

Cursed technique gone wrong? Half-human, half-curse? The fuck?

Also, how the fuck do you know the ZENIN CLAN? Like yeah, you play the game but even then, what exactly is this so-called game?

The question you should be asking yourself, as a reader, is simple --- on which side are you? Are you on the winning side with Gojo and Ieiri? Or are you on the losing side with Suguru, Haibara, and Kento?

And what did you mean by 'Deal'? It's like the second or third time we hear this.

Oh, Halloween's coming!

Drop a comment!

Feel free to donate me a 🦩

Hope you enjoyed!

[joshkiszkasears]

Angel Straight From Hell (Part I)

|Pairings: Jake Kiszka x fReader

|4.2k Words

| 18+ only! Minors do not interact!!!

| Warnings: 18+, smut, drinking, language, angst, praise kink, fingering, masturbation, and probably spelling and grammar errors lol. Let me know if I missed anything!

You were part of a trio and not in a third wheel-y kind of way in a good way. In a way that two best friends is better than one. Danny and Sammy had always been your best friends. Well at least since you were old enough to pick your friends. You guys had grown up together, the three of you had been a package deal for as long as you could remember. You three were basically inseparable. Hell, they even convinced you to move out to Nashville a year after they did. Danny’s family loved you but the Kiszkas had all but taken you in. You’d spent countless nights crashing on their couch, holidays with them, and gone on many family vacations with them. 

And here you were rushing to pack for yet another vacation with the Kiszka boys and Danny. This time sneaking away to the Smoky Mountains for a week. You were getting off the grid and reconnecting with each other and nature. You were running around your apartment grabbing your final items off of your checklist. “Phone charger, underwear, sweatshirt…” you mutter to yourself mentally going over everything you had packed in your head. “Shit toothbrush!” you say rushing back to your bathroom. You do one final visual sweep of your bedroom and rush out of the door. You were running late but not by too much. And the boys were used to your tardiness at this point anyways. Besides, at least one of them was usually running behind as well and nine times out of ten it was Josh. 

You and Josh had gotten close over the years and he had also become one of your best friends but for some reason Jake had never liked you. And you didn’t mind because you didn’t care much for him either. He had always been an arrogant smug little shit. You don’t know why you didn’t get along just that it had always been this way. Your disdain for each other had gotten worse in your adulthood. The two of you constantly bickering and shooting each other dirty looks and as you pulled into Josh’s driveway it appeared this trip wasn’t starting any differently.

“God bless, have you ever thought about being on time once in your life?” Jake rolled his eyes and yanked your suitcase from your hand tossing it in the back of Josh’s Jeep. “Good morning to you too asshole,” you said sharply. 

Before either of you have the chance to say anything else you feel yourself being pulled into a hug and immediately know the embrace. “JOSHYYY!” you say pulling him in tighter. “Good morning mama! I’m so glad you’re coming with us. Gonna be such a great time” he says with a toothy grin. “Me too, I think it’s gonna be so good to get away for a little bit. Thanks for always letting me crash” you smiled back. “Never crashing my dear, you’re always invited,” Josh replied, squeezing your hand. “Speak for yourself,” Jake scoffed, walking up toward the passenger door. “Are we ready to hit the road now that we’re all finally here?” Jake said, staring daggers at you. 

“Hey you,” Sammy says, pulling you into a hug. “Morning, Sammy!” you say squeezing him. “My turn!” Danny shouts before wrapping you in a bear hug and spinning you around. “Hi Daniel,” you giggle. “You ready to be stuck between the two of us for four hours?” Danny teases. “As I’ll ever be,” you sigh back sarcastically.

The three of you pile into the back of the Jeep as Josh and Jake take their respective spots up front. “We ready to roll?” Josh asks. Everyone nods their heads and you all begin your trip. You start to settle in and relax. You had meant it when you said it’d be good to get away for a while. Work had been beyond stressful recently and you hadn’t gotten to spend much time with your best friends recently. This getaway to the Smokies with them was exactly what you needed even if that meant spending a week with Jake as well. The drive up there was a normal roadtrip with your favorite people, retelling stories of road trips past, playing the license plate game, and screaming your favorite songs way too loudly.

You all pulled off in a small town before you reached your cabin and went to the local grocery store to stock up for the week. Jake took the cart and started down the aisles. You knew he’d be cooking most of the meals and as much as you hated to compliment him, he was an incredible chef. He had a way with food in the same way he did with music, always piecing just the right things together to make a masterpiece. You wander the aisles picking up junk food, you turn a corner and get smacked in the hip with a cart. “Fuck!” you exclaim looking up to see Jake with an annoyed look on his face. He moves to go around you and you grab the cart stopping him forcing him to look up at you. “Really Jacob, not even an I’m sorry?” you say. “Whatever, maybe just watch where you’re going,” he says, dropping his eyes back down to his shopping list. “Unbelievable, truly unbelievable,” you spit, pushing away from his cart and walking toward the checkout. 

You meet up with Sammy as you approach the cashier dumping your purchases on the conveyor. “Your brother really is a piece of work ya know? I just don’t understand how you and Josh turned out so kind and funny and sweet and he turned out so… so… Jake,” you let out a frustrated sigh. Sam lets out a light laugh “I’ll never understand what it is about the two of you that clashes so royally but there’s just something.” “There certainly is,” you reply.

You all finish up in the store and all load back into Josh’s Jeep to drive the last 30 minutes to your secluded cabin. This wasn’t your first time going up to the Smokies since relocating to Tennessee but you were still so in awe of the beauty and serenity of the area every time you came. You watched as the last bar of cell signal dropped off your phone and breathed a sigh of relief knowing that work wouldn’t be able to get a hold of you anymore and the only thing you would be using your phone for this week was to take pictures. 

After what felt like a never ending winding gravel driveway you pull up to the cabin. You all unload your luggage and after putting yours just inside the door you go out to the Jeep and start grabbing the groceries and bringing them in. As you’re stocking the fridge you hear the guys fighting over who gets which bedroom and resolving yourself that you will get whichever one is leftover. You see Danny emerge from one wing of the house and watch as he grabs your luggage and heads over to the other wing. He comes back to the kitchen sitting down at the island bar. “Put your stuff on your bed for you,” he says with a soft smile. “Thank Danny, I appreciate it,” you say, putting the last of the groceries away. 

You check the time on your phone and see it’s a little before 4:00pm. Perfect you think to yourself. “Hey, I am going to settle in and unpack and probably shower and relax before dinner if that’s cool,” you say walking past Danny. “Mmm, sounds good,” he says looking up from the game he was playing on his phone.

You walk back to the wing you saw Danny put your stuff in and notice what appears to be two bedroom doors with a shared bathroom in the middle. One of the bedroom doors is shut so you poke your head in the open one to see your luggage sitting on the bed. You unzip your suitcase to start unpacking. It seemed silly but it was something you did on every vacation since you were young. You liked to feel settled. So you did just that, you pulled out your airpods and started your favorite playlist zoning out as you put your things neatly away into your home for the next week. 

You’re suddenly startled by a loud “Hey!” as you see someone waving their arms in the doorway. You look up annoyed to see Jake standing in your doorway and pull out an airpod. “Yes?” you question. “I just wanted to let you know I’m about to take a quick shower,” he says. “And?” you respond wondering why that would concern you. “And I don’t want you to try to get into the bathroom while I’m in there, the locks to the bedrooms look shoddy,” he says bluntly walking out. And that’s when it clicks the boys had put you in the room next to Jake, sharing a bathroom with him. 

You drop the clothes in your hand and storm into the living room where Sammy and Danny are sitting. “What. The. Fuck?” you whisper shout. “What?” Sam looks up at you with a shit eating grin. “You know exactly what, why the hell am I stuck in a wing of the house sharing a bathroom with him? This was supposed to be a relaxing week where I have fun with you two and Josh and stay as far away from Jake as possible while sharing a house with him,” you say quickly. Danny looks up with an apologetic smile, “Josh wanted the room with the balcony and Sam and I took the room that had two beds in it so that no one else had to share. That just left the other two for you and Jake. I’m sorry.” You feel your frustration start to ease when you hear the explanation that it wasn’t really intentional. “Fuck, well okay it’s not ideal but it’s fine. I’m gonna have a good trip. I'm here with my best friends in a beautiful place. Also it’s not like our paths are gonna cross that much anyways. We’re just sharing the bathroom, it's fine,” you say, trying to reassure yourself. 

You head back to your bedroom and finish unpacking the rest of your stuff. You start gathering your stuff to take a shower and realize you haven’t heard Jake leave the bathroom yet despite him being in there for quite some time. You go out to the hall door since he had mentioned the locks to the bedrooms being less than adequate and bang on the door, “Jake! You almost done in there?” You wait for a minute or so with no response. You knock loudly on the door again, “Jake!” You’re met with silence, you raise your hand to knock a third time when the door swings open. Steam fills the hallway, and out walks Jake. “God patience really isn’t your strong suit is it?” he says. His hair is damp and clinging to his face and neck, he’s fully nude aside from a towel slung low around his hips. Your eyes may have lingered a little longer than they should have. “So no patience and a staring problem huh princess?” he quips. You feel heat rushing to your face. “No, just wanting to take a shower and you were taking an eternity,” you respond, rolling your eyes and quickly pushing past him and into the bathroom. You shut the door behind you and lean your back against the door. What the fuck was that? Princess? Princess. He called you princess. And you kind of fucking liked it?

You took your time in the shower hoping to scrub off whatever feelings that interaction with Jake had stirred up. But the longer you spent trying to erase it from your mind the stronger the feelings it had brought up felt. Fuck, I just need to get laid. That’s what it is, it’s just been a while and any male attention feels good. Just need to take care of myself and then I’ll stop thinking about it. Just need to get off. That’s all. You try to rationalize with yourself in the shower. 

Your hand wanders down as you find your clit and begin to pleasure yourself. The entire time fighting thoughts of Jake that have started to pop up. Everytime you try to fight the thoughts of him, the sight of him just moments ago reappears like it's burned into the backs of your eyelids. You feel yourself nearing your end and give in allowing yourself to think about him. The way his brow furrows when he looks at you annoyed, the way he looked with his hair plastered to his neck, the way the water droplets clung to his skin just above his towel, the way he said princess. And with that the band in your stomach snapped and you were overwhelmed by your release. As you came down you silently cursed yourself for thinking of him as you finished. You wrapped up your shower and threw on some comfy clothes before heading out of the bathroom.

You smell dinner cooking and toss your stuff in your room before heading toward the common area. You greet Danny, Sam, and Josh who are in the living room all sitting on the couch watching some movie they had started while you had been showering. You turn towards the kitchen and see Jake in his element at the stovetop. He’s got his hair tied in a low bun at the base of his neck as he focuses on the ingredients in front of him. 

Against your better judgment, you make your way into the kitchen and lean across the island, “You need help with anything?” you ask. Jake tears his focus away from the stove turning around to meet your gaze and for a split second you swear you see his scowl soften before quickly returning. “Help?” he scoffed, “You’d just get in the way.” You turn around not responding and silently scolding yourself for even trying, you knew better. 

You plop down on the couch next to Sam and curl into his side and shift your focus to the tv, realizing they’re watching The Shining. You should have known this would be the first thing they would pick since Halloween was right around the corner. You zone out for the next 45 minutes until you hear Jake call from the kitchen that dinner was ready. The five of you enjoy a meal around the dining room table and thankfully the tension between you and Jake is kept at a minimum. As dinner wraps up you start collecting everyone's plates and taking them to the kitchen. 

“Daniel and I are going to go start a fire in the pit out back!” Sammy says excitedly. “Please just don’t catch the cabin on fire, I’m gonna clean up the kitchen real quick and then I’ll come out to join y’all,” you giggle starting the sink. “Can I raincheck and do my kitchen duty tomorrow? I haven’t gotten my yoga in and was hoping to do a bit on the balcony before we spent the evening around the fire,” Josh asks you. “Of course Joshy, go find your zen,” you say mimicking a tree pose. “Thanks, Y/N,” Josh chuckles and gives you a quick peck on the cheek before running back to his room.

It was now Jake who stood awkwardly at the kitchen island as you began washing the dishes. “Mind if I help?” he says, making his way around the counter. “I don’t know, you’d probably just get in the way,” you reply, flatly. He lets out a small chuckle, “Yeah okay, I deserved that one.” He starts to clean up his mess from cooking and the two of you clean the kitchen in silence for the next 15 minutes. 

After finishing up you head out to the fire pit where Sammy and Danny have a nice bonfire going. Jake follows you out taking an open seat next to Sammy, and you sit down on a chair between Danny and Sam. Danny reaches over and hands you a white claw. “Well, any big plans for this week gentlemen?” you say cracking open your drink. “I am super excited to go hiking, I hear this area has some super great trails,” Danny replies. Your eyes shift to Sam. “Yeah same,” he replies “but I also brought some art supplies and I’m excited to paint. I haven’t gotten to do that for quite awhile.” “That sounds really nice,” you reply. There’s a beat of silence and your gaze finds Jake. He clears his throat, “Hoping to get some song writing done, have had some riffs bouncing around in my head recently and hoping I’ll be able to fine tune them while we’re here.” You nod. “Hopefully you’ll find the inspiration you’re looking for,” you say softly. Jake's eyes haven’t broken yours yet. “Bajabule, bitches!” Both you and Jake break away from each other’s stares to find his twin walking down to the fire with a solo cup raised in the air. “Welcome to the party, brother,” Sam says, raising his Topo Chico towards Josh. 

The five of you spent the next couple hours joking around the fire and drinking. It felt so good to let loose with your best friends. It reminded you of many nights when you three were in high school and making stupid decisions and you felt your heart swell with gratitude that no matter where life had taken you all, you had still remained this close. “Remember that night in high school that we went to that party at Kara’s family land and they had that huge bonfire? And we were all shitfaced and Michael Jackson came on the speaker?” you say starting to giggle. Sam starts dying laughing, “I absolutely do, keep going, Y/N,” he says between laughs. You continue “And Danny, you cleared the crowd because you wanted to show everyone how good you were at moon walking?” “And I am, for the record, very good at moonwalking,” Danny interjects. “Yeah yeah but then you started and you ate shit in front of everyone?” you and Sam bust into a fit of laughter. “Whatever, we all know if it wasn’t for that stupid branch on the ground I would have looked cool as hell,” Danny says, defending himself. “Daniel, we both know there was no branch involved, just a lot of alcohol and the need to impress Kara,” Sammy responds. 

“Was that the night we all got fucked up because we got confused and all thought someone else was DDing?” Danny asks. “Oh my god, it was. Shit that was a crazy night. Jake, I think you were the one that ended up coming to get us that night, weren’t you?” Sammy questions. Jake looks up from the fire, “Yeah you were all so gone by the time I got there. I got you and Danny loaded up in my car then had to go find Y/N. I had to get her away from that creep Jason that graduated with you guys and literally carry her to the car. He had her cornered and kept trying to convince me that he was going to get her home.” He says. Everyone got quiet. You raise your eyes up and see him looking straight at you. You swallowed hard, “Fuck, I literally have no recollection of that. I guess as the night went on I blacked out. Thanks for not leaving me, Jake,” you reply quietly. Jake just nods. 

While you and Jake had been having that interaction, Sam and Danny had started telling another story that brought your attention back to the present. After a while longer, you started to yawn and felt your eyelids getting heavy. You rose to your feet, “Well boys, it’s been a lovely evening but if I don’t head to bed now I think I’ll end up falling asleep out here. I’ll see y’all in the morning,” you said, stretching your arms above your head. “Goodnight, Y/N,” they all respond.

You take yourself to your room and grab your toiletry bag slipping into the bathroom to brush your teeth and hair. You then change into an oversized tshirt and slip into bed. Tonight was one of those that your head hit the pillow and it felt like you were asleep seconds later. You wake up what could have been seconds or hours later, you really aren’t sure, with an insatiable thirst. You groggily slip out of bed and make your way to the kitchen grabbing a bottle of water. As you are heading back to your room you hear someone else stirring and as you round the corner heading down the hall to your bedroom your body slams into someone. 

“Fuck!” Jake says, his voice heavy with sleep. “Oh shit, I’m sorry,” you whisper into the darkness. You move to go around him and as you walk by you feel a hand reach out grabbing your wrist. Before you know what is happening, Jake has you pinned against the hallway wall behind you. He leans in dangerously close to you, his lips ghosting just above yours. “Tell me to stop and I will,” he says. You couldn’t fully process what was happening but you felt your core aching. You lean in encouraging him to continue. He pulls back slightly “Words, princess.” “Don’t stop,” you say, your voice barely audible. 

He finally closes the distance between the two of you. Your mouth’s working furiously against each other, your hands tangling themselves into his hair and his gripping your hips. Jake swipes his tongue across your bottom lip and you quickly grant him the access he had been silently asking for. He still tasted like the bourbon he had been nursing all evening. 

You felt his hips unconsciously rut against you and feel his hands starting to explore your body. You feel one of his hands sliding under the hem of your shirt. “Hmmm?” he hums into your mouth questioning if he’s okay to continue. You nod never letting your mouth leave his. Jake’s hand makes its way under your shirt and up your body. He reaches up cupping your breast and gently kneads it and then ghosts his fingers around your nipple causing you to arch your back slightly. “So reactive to me,” he says, pulling away slightly to look at you. The only thing illuminating him is the glow of the moon pouring in from a skylight above the two of you. But even in the low light you can see his sinister grin and he pinches your nipple between his thumb and pointer finger eliciting a sharp inhale from you as your eyes roll back.

He maintains eye contact as he drops his hand down between your bodies and runs his finger slowly under the band of your underwear. You buck your hips into his hand silently asking him to keep going. He clicks his tongue, “Here we go again with the impatience.” “Please Jake,” you shamelessly beg. “God you sound pretty when you beg for me princess,” he practically moans out. 

He grants you mercy dipping his hand into your underwear and swiping his middle and ring finger through your slick. “Shit, so wet and all for me?” he questions. “Mhmmm, all for you,” you echo. He dips the two fingers into you drawing a moan from you. Jake’s free hand flies up to your mouth where he shoves his middle and ring finger harshly into your mouth. “Gotta stay quiet for me, we can’t let anyone hear us okay?” he says. You nod wrapping your mouth tightly around his fingers and circle them with your tongue. You see him struggling to maintain his composure. “An angel straight from hell,” he chuckles to himself. 

Before you have a chance to respond he starts to pump his fingers in and out of your heat at a punishing pace. Jake’s fingers curl up to hit your sweet spot on every pump and his thumb finds its way to your bundle of nerves working quick circles. Your eyes roll back and you moan around his fingers in your mouth. “Mmm you look so pretty when you are coming undone,” he whispers lowly into your ear. “You gonna be a good girl and cum for me? Soak my hand?” The pressure starting to build is almost unbearable. You try to ask him not to stop but it comes out garbled with his fingers still in your mouth. “So close aren’t you, be a good little princess and let go for me would you?” Jake growls, “There you go, cum pretty for me.” 

And just as you feel your release starting to come you are jolted awake. You sit straight up and find yourself still tucked away in your bed and drenched in sweat and absolutely aching for Jake’s touch. What the fuck.

[infectedpaul]

i couldnt have her flip off the camera. i just dont think she would

[itsbeesknees]

Oh Brother of Mine

Cardinal Copia x GN!reader

——0——

Summary: Copia’s seeing someone, and it’s really no one’s business— but his brothers believe otherwise.

Warnings: none, just wacky hijinks and some fluffy crack

Word count: 1.3K

A/N: just wanted to write something silly today,, this is written with the pretense that Copia is related to the Emeritus brothers!

——0——

“He’s late.. again.”

Terzo swivels in his seat, facing his brother with a quizzical brow and a cherry red UNO card twirled between the pads of his gloved fingers.

When Secondo mentioned their youngest sibling's tardiness three weeks prior, the trio did not truly care, as it was none of their business what Copia chose to do in his leisure. But now it was his what? Sixth time being late to their annual family game night. Which was odd, since you could harangue Copia for his flaws left and right— but you could never say he was not punctual.

This behavior was irregular, Terzo supposes, and he had no clue to what it meant in the dictionary that was his brother's mannerisms. Or maybe he did have some sort of inkling, a suspicion of sorts, yet bit his tongue anyways. Because Terzo wasn’t quite ready to air out the idea that Copia might be having some sort of rendezvous or sex-escapade with a member of the congregation, and he needed a fragment of proof at the very least before flinging out the accusation.

Even if Terzo was right, it was none of his concern. Well, perhaps a little teasing would dribble out as it was an older sibling's duty, but regardless he wasn’t ruffled over the possibility of Copia’s secrecy. Terzo loved his brother, really he did, and respected his private life.

Though, if this plays out any longer Terzo’s curiosity would win out and he would get nosy. Confidentiality be damned.

Secondo was already ten paces ahead of him, pinching the arched bridge of his nose as the soles of his leather brogues tapped irritatedly against the floors. Moments away from hunting his younger brother down with a skewer.

Secondo could be patient, as long as there was a glass of bourbon or pack of marlboros on standby. Which was unfortunate for him, as his cup was currently empty and he had forgotten his lighter.

Primo, as it would seem, is precedently unbothered by the whole ordeal. A glossy book rests wedged between his hands, the corners of the cover warbled and frayed, possibly from water damage. Occasionally, he would spare a fleeting glance at the door, before half-heartedly turning another page.

“Don’t be so impaziente, fratello.” Terzo replies coolly, turning back to the poor excuse of a card-tower he had begun meticulously stacking together. “He probably got wrangled into some last minute paperwork. You know, being busy and shit.”

The third Emeritus’s words sounded too much like a bald face lie, even to him. Because, when Copia finally opened that creaky door— looking rather flushed and disheveled— there were no paper cuts, or ink stains, or anything that would indicate a Cardinal who had been engrossed in filing.

There were, however, four fresh hickies on his neck.

—o—

Copia’s love affairs were no one’s business but his own. And it was certainly none of his brother's business. But whoever he’s been seeing isn’t just a fling, a one night stand, a momentary heartthrob. No, it was apparent in his goo-goo eyed gaze they were much more.

The hickies were the first indicator, purplish-red marks seen puckered on his throat in early March, with the spring equinox following only a few days after. Next came May and the coincidental routine of Terzo walking in on Copia fidgeting with bushy bouquets while awkwardly practicing ‘hello’s’ in the vanity mirror. Then, in mid-July, there were the content sighs that would always bubble past the Cardinal’s lips when he’d stare off into the distance for too long, and a constant fragrance of someone else’s perfume or cologne that always lingered on his cassock. Now it is August, so Copia is ‘quite serious’ with this mystery person, whoever they are.

“Satanas aiutami ora, I cannot believe I am doing this.” Secondo groans brusquely. He was way too old to be crouching behind a marbled pillar with Terzo, who tuts at his bemoaning and slides on a pair of sunnies.

“You act all high and mighty when you’re just as much of a snoop as me.” Terzo sneers. “Now stai zitto, I am trying to focus.”

Focus on what exactly? Terzo had no clue. All he knew was that Copia occasionally liked taking walks around the ministry during the early evenings, and there was a betting chance his secret lover may be accompanying him. So hopefully, when the Cardinal comes waltzing down the corridor, his brothers may just catch a glimpse of whoever held his rapidly beating heart.

Primo was strictly against this idea, pointedly absent in their antics. He’d rather spend his evening in his greenhouse, as he put it, before hastily telling them that they were both idiots.

“So, we’re just supposed to wait here like a flock of sitting ducks?” Secondo retorts, glaring holes at the ridiculous shades Terzo had donned.

“No. Sitting geese, actually.” The third Emeritus’s lips curl up into a smirk. Yes, Terzo thought he was quite funny.

Secondo’s gaze hardens into one of caution, warning his brother to stop while he’s ahead.

The sound of shoes tapping against the floors snapped the duo back into the present situation, anchoring their attention back to the matter at hand. Judging by the steady footfall the figures passing by were a pair, and the fiddly Italian lilt that was Copia’s voice confirmed who precisely the pair was.

Terzo motions Secondo to be deathly silent, before poking his head out from behind the column to sneak a slivering peek. Surely enough, there stood Copia, stopping and standing right at a crossway, jovially chatting away with someone.

Unfortunately, another pillar rested just shy of a few meters down, obscuring Terzo’s view of whoever Copia was endearingly talking to. He managed to glimpse at the tips of their shoes and hem of their unholy vestments, until they took a step back and completely vanished from his peripheral.

Terzo squints as Copia leans in and... kisses them? Hugs them? He can’t quite tell, and he’s this close to cussing at a beam of stone.

“Well?” Secondo whispers, impatient and wincing at his now aching knees.

“Aspettare.” Terzo mutters. “This stupido pilastro is blocking my view.”

It is then he deduces, brilliantly, to careen his head out further and try to bypass the pillar. And his plan was going rather swimmingly, until he knocked right into a candelabra and sent a crescendo of crashing and clanging steel right in his direction.

Terzo grimaces as hot wax flicks onto his thighs, the materials of his slacks doing little to shield him from the sweltering heat. Secondo curses, reaching out to grab his brother’s collar and yank him back into the solitude of their relatively lame hiding spot.

But it was already too late. Copia’s mystery partner had parted ways down a separate foyer, gone without a trace, and the Cardinal was stalking straight towards the two.

“Ah, Copia.” Terzo grins coyly up at him when he finally snuffs them out. “What brings you here, on such a fine evening as this?”

Copia stares back at him, blinking. “Were you spying on me, fratello?”

“Spying? No.” Terzo waves in dismissal, scrambling to stand upright besides Secondo. “A little information collecting? Sì.”

Secondo winds back his hand and whacks Terzo upside the head.

“Ok, well, ehm.. maybe don’t spy on me, hm?” Copia presses his mouth into a thin line, irked and slightly amused.

“Yes, of course.” Secondo says, clenching his jaw hard enough that they could hear his teeth grinding behind painted lips.

In the end, the Cardinal gives them one last estranged look, before pivoting down the hall. His partner still remaining a secret kept under lock and key.

Terzo has the good grace to act ashamed, until Copia leaves and he splinters into a much more comical smirk.

“That could’ve gone worse.” He tells his brother good-naturedly, who simply huffs fiercely, shoulders past him, and refuses to speak to Terzo for the rest of the week.

—o—

[geronimomo-spd]

i recently had the vision of the Eighth doctor making Charley and C'rizz create a band! (mostly in the space between them leaving the Divergent Univerce, as i headcanon that time to be wayy longer then the standered Tardis trip, and the Doctor was bored as all heck)

coming up to them all school of rock style, Charley was part of the high class so she probably sorts of knows the basics for something, not just the piano i mean, i see it more as a violin, so the doctor just turns it around to like "no you defenetly can play this electric giture!!" and Charley will be like "ok fine lets crack at it" and being very bad

and the doctor bringing C'rizz to the drums like "this will help you let off some steam C'rizz!!"

and C'rizz suprisengly loves it because wow load noise, anf the doctor presented a band to them like "they express themselvews through music!!" and C'rizz is like i can express myself and only myself?? find myself through this music thing?? and i can hit things???

he of course breaks a bunch of drums when he gets reallly into it

and the doctor is the solo singer and he loves to do weird ass movments and sing for too long, but C'rizz and Charley are the background singers and roll their eyes at the doctor's anticks

and of course the doctor starts them up on like, "welcome to the black parade" because it really fits their themes and he has no self awearness for how diffcult it is for beginners dfgdfgdfg, and Charley has a long but barable giture solo

down the line he sometimes joins in with his violin playing powers and impresses the fuck out the other two, who genunly feel like he is not the best musician

[unknown--author]

Sewing Clothes and Drinking Tea

I apologize for being gone so long, life got busy. I finished this WIP while in science class because I hate science and decided to post it.

Feedback and criticism are welcome! Just please be nice about it.

QUICK SYNOPSIS or whatever it's called: Professor Crewel and Prefect Yuu bonding over sewing and tea because of a secret influence (you'll know by the end).

CW: Yuu is anxious (probably, it's just my thought process, they might just come off as nervous), I don't know how to describe tea or sewing, this takes place before Book 5 (VDC is referenced but Yuu doesn't know what it is)

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

It's the day of my people :D

Yuu trudged toward the school store, their messenger bag shrugged over their shoulder. Ace and Deuce had torn holes into their uniforms by getting into a scrap with Octavinelle students (read: Floyd). Not only that, but Grim had a spat with Leona, tearing his bow.

Now the trio was employing the prefect to fix their clothes. Yuu sighed and pinched the bridge of their nose. They were going to end up in debt because of their idiots.

As soon as they entered the store, Mr. S was at their side, an apologetic look on his face. “I’m sorry, little devil. We just ran out.”

Yuu had learned not to question how he knew these things. Though, they suspected the shadows had something to do with it. “Really?” Sam always had what they needed in stock. “Did a delivery not come in?”

He shook his head. “No, Divus bought the last of the sewing materials. From how much he got, he’s either working on a new project or a large group of imps wrecked their clothes.”

“Oh.” The prefect clicked their tongue. Dammit, tomorrow was Monday. If Grim didn’t have his bow fixed, Crowley wouldn’t be pleased with them. And while Ace and Deuce weren’t in Ramshackle and, technically, weren’t their responsibility, Yuu would rather not let their friends down. Also, hearing Ace whine about a collar for a week sounded like hell.

“Well, little devil, I’m sure if you asked politely enough, Divus would lend you some.” Sam had obviously noticed their downcast expression.

Yuu perked up. “Do you think?”

“Yes, yes.” Sam went back to stocking behind the counter.

“Wait.” They deflated a bit. “Won’t Professor Crewel be at home? It is the weekend, Mr. S.”

"He keeps all his projects and sewing materials at his school office."

"Why?"

Sam shot a small smile their way. "He works on them in between classes and after school."

"Doesn't he have paperwork to do during those times?" Yuu asked, feeling bemused.

His small smile turned into a cheeky one. "Maybe," he shrugged.

They shook their head in amusement. "Thank you, Mr. S." They turned to leave. "I'll tell you how it goes!"

"There's no need; I'll know," Sam chuckled.

~~~~~~~~~~~

As Yuu walked through the desolate halls, some doubts filled their mind. What if Professor Crewel wasn't there? And if he was, would he listen to them? Would he help? Or would he turn them away with the flick of his wrist? The prefect was quite intimidated by the fur-coat-wearing teacher. And for good reason!

Divus Crewel had a strict way of teaching. He never stood for tardiness or horsing around. Any student who went against him would be punished severely. He taught with a whip and a terrifying glare. And last but not least, he reminded Yuu of Cruella De Vil. She had scared them shitless as a kid. With her freaky design and her intent to kill puppies and skin them for their coats, how could she not have?

They hesitated outside the alchemy classroom door. If they wanted, they could turn back now. They could buy a new bow for Grim. Ace and Deuce aren't precisely their problems, the duo have a housewarden and should know how to care for themselves.

A voice cut off their thoughts. "Come in, pup!" It called through the door.

Yuu creaked the door open at the invitation. The infamous Professor Crewel sat at a desk at the front of the room. He had a needle in his hand while fabric floated around him. "Hello, professor."

"Sam told me you were coming." The shadows seemed to dance when he said that. "What is it that you need?"

"Um, well..." Yuu looked at his forehead, avoiding eye contact. "Uh, you see, Grim and my friends tore a few stitches in their clothing and asked me to fix it up, again. I ran out of the thread and patches I needed, so I went to Mr. S's shop. And, well, you got the last of it.

"Mr. S then said that you maybe, probably, might let me borrow some of the materials?" Their rambling got quicker and quieter the more they went on.

Divus quirked an eyebrow. It was obvious that the prefect was nervous around him. It was no wonder considering his reputation with the student body. "Let me take a look at the damage those pups have done."

Yuu fumbled with their bag before pulling the torn clothing out. They walked over and handed it over to the teacher. He inspected the tears.

Most of Grim's vow was now shredded ribbons, Leona had got him good. Ace had gotten the brunt of Floyd's attack; Deuce's uniform wasn't as bad. Their clothes were torn from a force pulling at them and there were claw marks here and there.

Divus sighed. These pups were always so reckless. "I'll mend these. Pull up a chair." He waved his hand to the side, gesturing toward a seat.

Yuu immediately grabbed one, bringing it over to the side of the teacher's desk. They sat down, watching Professor Crewel work silently.

Some of the black fabric overhead floated down and scissors cut patches out of it. Magic threaded the needle for Divus. He grabbed it out of the air and began sewing the uniforms back into their proper form. The Ramshackle prefect watched in awe at the teacher's skill, but they felt a bit confused.

"Professor," they said, pulling his concentration away from his work. "Why don't you just use magic to sew?"

He sighed, expecting this question. "I don't want to build up too much blot."

"But you're making the fabrics and material float?"

"It's easier to organize them if they're not all dumped on my desk," he answered, a loud snip coming from his scissors. One patch down.

The prefect was about to ask another question but Crewel interrupted them. "Would you like some tea, pup?"

Yuu, caught off-guard by the sudden question, takes a moment to answer. "Um, yes please." After the whole Azul fiasco, they were suspicious of any free things offered to them.

Divus opened one of his desk drawers and pulled out a teapot and two teacups seemingly out of nowhere. From Yuu's perspective, the drawer looked like a void. "How did you do that?" they blurted out, amazement on their face.

The teacher stifled a chuckle. "It's an enchantment so the drawer has unlimited space. I cast it back when I started teaching here." He poured tea into the two cups and pushed one toward the teen.

The smell wafted up to their nostrils. They could've died happy then and there; it smelt so wonderful. They couldn't quite put their finger on it even though it was familiar. "What type of tea is this? It smells fantastic!"

"It's a walnut and almond green tea. I had it imported from the Queendom of Roses," Divus said proudly, taking a sip before going back to work.

Yuu took a sip as well, humming in delight. "Is it specially made there?"

He nods, focusing on the needle in his hand. "It's said that the Mad Hatter drank it at his unbirthday parties. Only the people of the queendom know how to brew it."

They muttered something about Riddle and his mother before speaking again. "Hmm, green tea's quite common back home. It's easy to get; you don't need to import it from another country."

"How interesting, pup." Two more loud snips sounded through the room. Two more patches done.

After his indifferent response, Yuu goes quiet. They take a sip of their tea and inspect the cup for something to do. It was plain white with little green leaves attached to thin vines. Each leaf was different in shape and size, but still similar. As they examined the teacup, they realized it looked authentic.

"Professor Crewel, is this handmade?" They held the teacup up so he knew what they were talking about.

Snip. Snip. Snip. Three patches and two uniforms done. "Yes, this set was handmade by an old friend of mine," he said as he grabbed his magic pen. The black fabric floated back up into the air. In its place, strips of grey and white fabric dropped onto the professor's desk.

Yuu watched with fascination as Divus lined up the material meticulously. "Who was the friend?"

"A friend from college, Ansel. He actually went to RSA. We met when I was in my second year and he was in his first." He sounded nostalgic as he spoke. "We met at that year's VDC. Ansel was performing for his team while I was a costume for mine. We went all out that year," he chuckled, now sewing the strips together.

"VDC?" the prefect mumbled before shaking their head. They'll ask about what that is later. "Were you good friends with him? Do you both still talk?"

The man sighed. "Yes, we were good friends. No, I don't talk with him much anymore, pup. We still text every once in a while. Before you ask, the last time we actually talked was at his wedding." He had finished fashioning the strips into a grey and white striped ribbon. Instead of fixing Grim's old bow, he had made a new one.

Yuu quickly downed the rest of their tea before they were handed the new and improved school uniforms. "Ah, thank you, sir."

Divus nodded curtly. "You're welcome, pup. Now run along." He got right back to work mending other clothing articles.

The prefect was about to walk out the door when he called out to them. "Pu- Prefect Yuu?"

They turned around to face him. "Yeah?"

"My door is always open if you need anything." He shot them a small, warm smile.

"Okay, thank you," they said, smiling brightly back at him before leaving.

Unbeknownst to the two, a certain shadow darted out of the room.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Sam was closing up shop when a shadow appeared next to him. It looked lively as it waved its arms around and seemingly danced.

Same glanced at it every now and then, wiping the store's front counter as he "heard" what took place in the alchemy teacher's classroom.

He chuckled afterward. "I knew they'd get along!"

The shadow shook its head in response.

"Look, I know it was bad to lie to the little devil, but hey, it ended up benefitting them. Now they have someone responsible that they can rely on." The shopkeeper bent under his counter and pulled out sewing materials.

"I better go put these back now, huh?"

~~~~~~~~~~~

Thank you for reading! I'm sorry for any OOC behavior and anything I get wrong about the slight mention of VDC. I haven't made it past book 4 yet. This is my second time writing an actual fic for this fandom and my first time actually posting one! On Sunday, I might post a drawing/painting that goes with this fic. I don't have my sketchbook on me right now.

Belongs to @unknown--author

PLEASE DO NOT REPOST ON TUMBLR, AO3, WATTPAD, OR ANY OTHER SITES (yes, I'm this cocky that my work could be stolen)