#the holidays aren't the holidays without snow

[inspectorspacetimerevisited]

Unlike the rip-off, *Inspector Spacetime* never went to the trouble of creating fake snow for holiday specials.

It actually better reflected the reality in the UK during these warmer times.

[spacebarbarianweird]

Heartbeat

A short fluff for BG3 Winter Holiday Challenge.

Prompt: Snow&Ice

Tags: fluff, pregnancy

Read on AO3

Masterlist

Headcanons

Astarion gasps as the freezing grasp of the nightmare lets him go. He doesn't remember what exactly decided to torment his mind this time, but it wasn't anything pleasant, that's for sure.

For a few seconds, Astarion can't understand where he is. It's a dark room with a low wooden ceiling. The blizzard howls, threatening to freeze to death anyone who dares step outside.

"Hm?", he hears a sweet sleepy voice. Gentle hands wrap around his body. "Nightmares again?"

Astarion turns his face to you. The warmth of your body returns him to reality, washing away the dirt of the cruel visions.

"It's all right", he whispers back. "Sleep."

You adjust yourself to his body, intertwining your legs with his and placing your head on his chest. You are so close he can hear blood streaming through your veins.

Before, he could ask you for blood. But not now.

Your rounded belly rests on his stomach. Your half-elven body easily betrays your pregnancy - it's visible to everyone with eyes.

And Astarion is scared. That is probably what came to him in the nightmare. Something about this thing that's so natural for mortals and so unnatural for the undead.

Pregnancy.

He caresses the belly trying to concentrate on something else. On something good.

But, gods know, it's difficult.

"Astarion, you are starving. You need to go on a hunt", you whisper to him, finally opening your eyes.

"I didn't know you were so eager to become a single mother", he chuckles. "It's too cold even for me"

"Maybe you will ask someone in the town? They will gladly share animal blood with you."

"Trust me, they tolerate me only because not once in these five years I've tried to feed on something that belongs to them. Vampires can live without food for years, love. I can wait at least a day before the blizzard ends."

You sigh and tug him closer. He can see your freckles, these gorgeous sunmarks. Red hair. Half-elven ears.

He still can't fathom this idea. It's something abstract, unreal. Just a word without a meaning. Your body is changing. Sometimes you have such insane mood swings he has no idea what to do. And you feel so delicate in his arms that he is afraid to hurt you.

"Are you afraid?", you finally ask.

"Yes. I am."

A pleasant silence falls once again.

"Me too. Considering how shitty my own mother was, it's not like I have a healthy maternity example. On the bright side, I have a very clear idea of what I am not supposed to do with an innocent child."

"It will probably be a dhampir, love. Aren't you afraid of that? That it's just a monster inside you?"

"I willingly went to bed with you. What else would I expect?"

You hug him tight and he is lost in your breathing and the heartbeat. So alive. So kind. So brave.

He willingly went to bed with someone whose weapon of choice is a two-handed axe he can't even lift. Someone who could easily pet a dragon. What else did he expect? Of course you aren't afraid of monsters.

But it doesn't mean he isn't scared of the future to come.

"I am cold", you suddenly say.

"I am sorry", he tries to pull away - his cold body isn't a great source of warmth.

"Don't move!" you tighten your muscles not allowing him to go.

"I will make you colder."

"So what?"

He gives up and keeps enjoying your warmth. Does the baby have this warmth, too? Or it's more undead than mortal? It bugs Astarion that he hasn't found any information on how the pregnancy is supposed to progress if the child is a dhampir.

Does it even have a heartbeat?

It seems like you have fallen asleep once again. He smiles, studying your face in the dark.

The sound of a blizzard lulls him so is your breathing. Nothing to be afraid of. The past is past, no matter how horrible it was.

And then Astarion hears another sound.

He can't understand what this is and is surprised that your heartbeat feels so weak.

Then he hears yours, loud and stong.

And the other one, weak and hardly identified by his sharp senses.

It seems like he flinches because you are awake again.

"What is it?"

Astarion sits up and puts his hands on the belly. The tears flow down his pale face and he doesn't try to wipe them away.

"My love, what happened?" you reach out for his curls and touch the tip of the right ear.

"I-", the words are stuck in his throat. "It's the heartbeat. I can hear our child's heartbeat!"

Astarion tugs you closer for a kiss. He laughs joyfully, muttering words of gratitude in Elven as if forgetting how to speak Common all of a sudden.

You spend what looks like an eternity in each other arms. Then, you pull away a bit.

"Astarion. I am so sorry to ruin the moment but I am dying of hunger, too. Can we go downstairs? I will fetch something for myself and the baby."

He chuckles. "Don't be ridiculous, darling. You stay in the warmth under the blanket and I will cook for you."

"You?" you laugh innocently. You've been together for twenty years and Astarion rarely has to cook only if you fell so sick he has to feed you.

"Well, I suppose our child won't drink blood. So, I have a few more months to learn how to prepare food."

"At least let me help you before you burn the house", you reach out for him and he lifts you in the air. "Will you get me back on my feet?"

"No, why should I?"

You put your head on his chest. "All right, then. Carry us downstairs, my beautiful husband!"

--

Tag list

@tragedybunny @caitlincat-95 @tallymonster@astarion-beloved@lumienyx @fayeriess@elora-the-slutty-songstress@veillsar@astarion-imagine-archive @micropoe10 @starlight-ipomoea@herstxrgirl @theearthsfinalconfession @ashiro20 @not-so-lost-after-alll @vixstarria @wintersire @marcynomercy @tugoslovenka

[cheriladycl01]

Baby It's Cold Outside - Carlos Sainz x BulgarianOlympicSkiing! Reader

Plot: You take your new husband skiing with your friends Alexandra and Charles.

"How do you do this as normal training baby! I can barley do it two winter breaks in a row!" Carlos shivers looking around as you strap your gloves on.

"Come on! I want to get to the big slopes early so I can practice! Then we can have fun with Charles and Alex!" you smile at your husband as you pull your snow boots on that were at the edge of the cabin.

"But Alex and Charles get a lay-in why don't i?" he complains pouting at you and giving you the puppy eyes.

"Because you decided to marry me, and that doesn't lead to lay-in's on a Ski holiday!" you giggle.

"Okay, but over the summer you are coming with me to Mallorca and we are having lots of cuddles and lay-in's and walks along the beach and lots of morning sex!" he grins cheekily making you slap his chest.

"Okay, well lets go Skapi!" you smile taking his hand.

You guys headed first to the large slopes where you could go down and practice for the Olympics that were to be held in Milan in 2026. You practiced for around an hour, going at high speed and cleaning up your turns and corners.

Then Carlos decided it was time to head back to the log cabin you guys were sharing with Alex and Charles and ask them if they wanted to join you for lunch. You took a leisurely ski through the wooded ski area that was just a general skiing area rather than the specific slopes used.

He reached out for you, holding your hand as you both used one pole to change your directions as needed.

"It's a really nice day today!" you say after pulling down the bandana you had wrapped around your mouth currently. Usually you'd wear a full balaclava but where you were skiing with friends you wanted to be able to talk to them without shouting.

"Yes, the sun is bright!" he says looking around the white snow that if you both took the skii masks off you'd for sure be blinded by the dazzling white expanse.

"Mmm, so how do you feel about the rest of the year?" you carefully ask your husband. You had tiptoed around the subject of him having to leave Ferrari. He understood why they'd jump at the opportunity to take on a 7x World Championship when this year they had a car that was consistent and contending with the Red Bull, that didn't mean it didn't hurt though. You'd only found out a few days ago from Charles himself.

He'd found a true friendship in Charles and Alex, just like he had done with Lando. It didn't mean he would no longer see Charles but they were arguably one of the best pairing on the grid when it came to team-work and wins.

"Well, Audi have said they'd like to take me on in 2026, but that would mean a year out. Red Bull have also spoke to me about removing Checo, but I want a championship and with Max as Red Bull golden boy I don't think it would be feasible. Then obviously there's Mercedes but their car was so bad this year, so it really depends!"

"Well, whatever happens you know you'll have me right?" you say, slowly coming to a halt and pull him into a hug.

"I don't know what the best decision is, but I'm just going to try perform my best this season with Ferrari!" he offers and you nod, pulling him in.

"If you do go with Audi and have an off season in 2025 that means we'll have the whole year together!" he smiles at what you just said.

"Mmmm maybe we can travel without the stress of me racing each time!" he grins pulling you in and kissing you, your masks clashing together making you both laugh.

You walk back in to the cabin to find Alex and Charles cuddles up on the sofa under a fluffy blanket.

"Hey guys, want to go get some lunch?" you ask looking around.

"How on earth do you survive with it this cold!" Alex shivers looking at the snow that falls off yours and Carlos' boots as you slip them off.

"You are all from warmer regions. Mediterranean people" you sigh with a small laugh.

"Sorry we aren't Slavic or Balkan like you and can hold up in your insanely cold winters, I'm guessing that's how you got into skiing?" Charles chuckles.

"Yeah, my dad would take me up the mountains each winter and go skiing! It's how I got into it competitively!" you smile, remembering all the memories from when you were younger.

"It's amazing what you've achieved not only for yourself but your country!" Alex smiles.

"Thank you guys! Going for Gold in 2026 though! You guys will come support me right?" you ask, already planning to give them VIP seats where they could watch from.

"Of course!" they all reply while Carlos comes behind you and picks you up throwing you over his shoulder and launching you onto the part of the sofa next to Charles.

"Carlos be careful" you laugh at him, holding one hand on your chest and another around his neck.

"Just an hour of chilling? Then we'll do lunch and more skiing?" he asks using those big brown eyes off his.

"Alright fine" you smile, pulling him in for a hug as you tune into the show Alex and Charles had on.

You could 100% get used to this life.

y/user

Like by carlossainz55, charles_leclerc and alexandrasaintmleux

y/user: Holiday with Ferrari Family! Forza Ferrari <3 also Charles stole my phone :<

Tagged 3 People

View all 567 comments

scuderiaferrari: We love our Core 4! Happy Holidays!

carlossainz55: mi amor you showed us all up, don't recommend a Ski Holiday with a Silver Medalists!

-> fan1: I was at the slopes and saw her helping Alexandra, was the cutest

-> fan2: not mans complaining about his literal wife's achievements!

formulasantander: Alex and Y/N repping the red! We love to see it!

charles_leclerc: I look good no?

-> y/user: no lol, jk don't cancel me

alexandrasaintmleux: love you my best friend! <3 thank you for the ski lessons.

Instagram Story Caption:

Gang waiting on Carlos be like...

Taglist:

@littlesatanicassholebitch @hockey-racing-fubol @laura-naruto-fan1998 @22yuki @simxican @sinofwriting @lewisroscoelove @cmleitora @stupidandunnecessary @clayra-g @daemyratwst @honey-belden @moonypixel @lauralarsen @vader-is-hot @ironcowboycopnickel @itsjustkhaos @the-untamed-soul @beebo86 @happylittlereader @ziejustme @lou-larcher5 @thewulf @purplephantomwolf @chasing-liberosis @chillyleclerc @chanthereader @annoyingmoonballoon @summissss @evieepepi08 @havaneseoger08 @celesteblack08 @gulphulp @fandom1ruined2me @celebstories @starfusionsworld @jspitwall @sierruhh @georgeparisole @dakotatankbig @youcannotcancelquidditch @zzonsbeek @tallbrownhairsarcastic @mellowarcadefun @ourteenagetragedy @otako5811 @countingstacksandpanicattacks @peachiicherries @formulas-bitch @cherry-piee @hopexcroc @mirrorball-6 @spilled-coffee-cup @mehrmonga @bigsimperika @blueberry64857959 @eiraethh @lilypadlover @curseofhecate @alliwantisadonut @the-fem1n1ne-urge @21stcenturytaegi @dark-night-sky-99 @spideybv28 @i-wish-this-was-me @tallrock35 @butterfly-lover @barnestatic @landossainz @darleneslane @barcelonaloverf1life @r0nnsblog @ilove-tswizzle @kapsylia @laneyspaulding19 @lazybot @malynn @cassielikereading @viennakarma @teamnovalak @landosgirlxoxo @marie0v @jlb20416 @yourbane @teamnovalak @nikfigueiredo @fionaschicken @0picels0 @seomako @urdad-hot @formula1mount @tinydeskwriter @butterfly-lover @ironmaiden1313

[konekoling]

Hi hello since the states are gonna get blasted with cold soon I figured I'd shave some Helpful Cold Survival Advice I've absorbed as someone who lives in an area that hits -50C/-58F temperatures periodically

-Starting with a somewhat obvious one, but HOLY SHIT DO NOT BRING BARBECUES, GENERATORS, OR ANY OTHER FORM OF OUTDOOR HEAT SOURCE INSIDE FOR WARMTH. CO poisoning WILL kill you if you don't accidentally start a fire in the process.

-If you wanna stay in your car and turn the heat up for warmth DO NOT do it in the garage. Again. CO poisoning.

-You can turn up your stove/ oven and crack the oven door open in an emergency if you have zero other heat sources available, but only if its electric (Gas stoves will generate carbon mono...yeah you get it already), and even then its going to be much less energy efficient than a normal space heater, and you're gonna want to stay nearby while it's on to make sure you don't start a fire.

-Don't plug a space heater into a power bar or extention cord unless you're 100% sure it has a high quality cord. They need an absurd amount of power to run, and most extention cords in particular aren't insulated enough to handle those levels of power without becoming a fire hazard. And for the love of God, don't run multiple heaters on one power bar.

-Candles don't actually do much to generate heat unless you're ina very small area, but they ARE an excellent light source should power go out

- tragically, the best way to keep warm in the absence of home heating is through boring ol layering, especially on your feet and head. Avoid jeans, as they're somehow terrible at heat retention despite how thick they are, and throw on a pair of long underwear/leggings if you have some. Also feel free to pile as many blankets as you own on top of yourself, you deserve it.

-Youre gonna want to stay well fed, too. Keeping your body temperature up in the cold is pretty calorically demanding, AND the digestive process tends to heat your body up as well. Its a win/win.

-Also unfortunate: another excellent way to stay warm is through your enemy and mine, physical activity. Every half hour or so, pace around your living space to get the ol blood pumping a bit.

-If you get wet outside while it's substantially cold out, get inside as soon as possible bc that WILL suck the heat from your body. This goes for sweat too, so layer responsibly if you're out shoveling

-Electric blankets are a scam, don't buy them.

-heating pads and heated mattress covers are less of a scam, but don't fall asleep with them on bc once again, fire hazard.

-If you have any faucets in your house that don't see a lot of use/you live somewhere that doesn't usually see cold weather, keep all your faucets on just a bit so your pipes don't freeze and/or explode. This WILL cost thousands of dollars to fix.

-Likewise, if you're traveling for the holidays see if you can have someone come by to turn the faucets on every day or two so you don't come home to find your house sunk into the ground

-ALSO if you're traveling and think "hm, I think I'll turn off the heat while I'm out to save some money that is the devil speaking, do NOT listen. (Heating helps keep the pipes warm and unfrozen)

-Fill your bathtub up with water and/or stock up on bottled water if you're gonna be getting unusually cold temperatures in case your pipes DO freeze, since you're probably not gonna want to hit up the store should this occur

-Stay off the roads if you can help it. Turbocold weather makes cars periodically fail to start, and also the second snow touches the ground people somehow forget how to drive.

-IMO If it's below -38C before windchill, you have a substantial commute, and you have any PTO/can afford to miss a shift at work, don't bother going in. Just lie and say your car wouldn't start.

-If you absolutely need to go to work/go out for whatever reason, take public transit if possible. If thats not possible, keep some blankets, food, candles, and a lighter in your car in case the battery dies on the road so you can stay toasty and Alive until help arrives.

Probably gonna add more as I remember it, but thems the basics! Stay warm!

[nso-csi]

231117 Weverse live (eng sub)

Taemin says that it snowed for the first time this year in korea today and asked if his manager saw it. he says that the scarf was gifted by the brand itself and he was thanking the brand for this scarf. cr.

I'm going to the airport because I have a schedule in Thailand. Even tho I left early, there's a lot of traffic because people are getting off work. Today's also friday! I envy the people getting off work, treat yourselves well~ I woke up today and worked out and had a meeting regarding the concert and left for the airport. I've been pretty busy lately. cr.

I might sound full of myself, but rather than fixed variety shows, I want to do youtube content, like uploading song/dance covers. cr.

Taemin: I don't even know if they'll invite me over to variety shows however rather thanwanting to become a regular on variety shows, I want something that actually suits me? something like youtube content or sth relating to dance? cr.

Fans: You don't have any vacation? aren't you tired? Taemin: I don't think I have any vacation for this year, I've really been working hard (without rest) this year~ cr.

Taemin reading a comment: no holiday this year? I won't have holidays this year til the end of year. cr.

Taemin: can you all write how old you are? I am curious.. I am really curious.. because it seems like I'm the only one speaking in honorific?? no one apart from me speak formally?? Every one is younger but no one calls me oppa, everyone was like 'taemin-ah' but of course i know t's because the fans want to feel closer to me that's why they don't speak with honorifics cr.

Taemin: what's funny is everyone talks to me casually even those younger than me 6"6 no one even says oppa to me 6^6 I was joking you can talk to me casually~ some people get mischievous because I said so I was joking! cr.

Alcohol? it's been so long since i drank. When was the last time? I'm not drinking recently, maybe I lost interest. cr.

Taemin said it's been a while since he drink alcohol and said the last time he drank was during the live in Japan cr.

I'm so thankful that so many people did the guilty challenge with me. i was worried that they might feel embarrassed/scold me but everyone did show their abs, so i was very relieved. cr.

Fortunately there are a lot of people that recognize me as an artist. i'm determined to walk my own path. cr.

Everyone's asking me to take care of them, tbh i can't take care of myself. cr.

People who exercise regularly always show up. Like Minho is everywhere. He probably does ab workouts in his sleep and showers while flexing his abs and when he picks up stuff he picks them up in a squat position. I think it's really cool that people can exercise routinely like that. I would rather live without abs and be able to eat whatever i want. During the concert i should show you my abs~ 6v6 shooting content with minho hyung would be fun. there's two types of people who exercise: those who enjoy working out, and those who whine and complain. i'm the second type 6v6. cr.

Taemin: Minho hyung must work out even sleeping n even taking a shower 😆 he has such healthy hobbies so cool~ but shall we just have drinks? let's give up let's eat what we want this life~! there are 2 types of people one working out happily the other doing it whining i'm the latter cr.

I know how hard the SM staff works, so I don't want to talk bad about SM. But there are times when I don't understand the decisions made by (upper management). even if I were to have an ordinary job, I'd be bound to have some sort of complaints. cr.

Everyone is working hard to make something great. "Euisoo hyung make lots of money" I think our company's salary isn't that high. But everyone works with so much passion. It's a company where you make little money but you work a lot. and i know how hard our fans support us. Everyone always talks about how shinee/taemin fans are so amazing and beautiful! Some people enter the company and run away because the reality didn't match their expectations. So the people who stay behind work hard. The company is expanding but there's no money, so i don't understand how it's getting bigger LOL What I want to say is everyone is working hard, so please know that. There are people who work hard behind the scenes. That's right, raise the salary of our staffs! We have the deepest history among entertainment agencies in korea, so raise our salaries to match our reputation! 6v6 cr.

[citrus-moonlight]

Salvation is a Deep Dark Well

Chapter 2: Raise Your Chin and Howl

[ Masterlist - Part Two ] -> [ Masterlist - Part One ]

Fandom: MCU - Age of Ultron, Black Panther Pairing: Ulysses Klaue x F! Reader Word count: 9.7K Chapters: 2/6 Rating: Explicit

Summary: The actions of others leads to chaos at the compound, and after Klaue returns to deal with the aftermath you're surprised to learn that his reasons for being upset aren't what you think, and you finally have to admit some things that you've been denying.

Warnings: Explicit!, Mild Age Difference, Reader is Late 30s, Use of Pet Names, Injury, Workplace Injury, Mention of Blood, Reference to Guns, Insecurity (Reader is an Idiot), Light Angst, Smut, Dirty Talk, Teasing, Reference to Masturbation (M), Finger Sucking, Spit Kink, Oral Sex (M receiving), Brief Rough Oral, Cock Worship, Messy Blowjob, Mouth Fucking, Cum Swallowing, Hair Holding/Pulling, Guided Masturbation (F), Mild Size Kink, Soft Dom, Teasing, Praise Kink, Porn With Plot, More Accidental Feelings Oh No

AN: Welcome back, friends! It's been quite a while since I updated this one, but I'm excited to finally bring you so more of these two! it wasn't so much that this one got away from me, but what I wanted (and needed) to do with it was getting more involved, and ultimately I'm happy with how this ended up turning out. Especially since I also accidentally wrote a holiday "interlude" story that comes after this but before what was supposed to be the next chapter (which is now chapter four), which was simultaneously challenging and helpful in finding the right balance in this part as things progress.

As always, thank you for reading and to everyone who has commented or reblogged so far, and I am unendingly grateful to those who have provided encouragement and support through this writing of this story. I hope that you enjoy! 💕

AO3 Link

Title is from "Hands Like Roots" by The Builders and the Butchers

And if thee should die tonight Well it won't be without a sound When your hands move like roots Making their way through the ground

The afternoon is crisp but bright when you step outside, the sun actively working to melt much of the late autumn snow that had fallen overnight. 

You’d only gone out to take a quick inventory of the oxygen and argon stock, but when you make your way past the loading dock to get to the storage cages you see something that makes you pause and do a double take.

On the compound’s property there are three industrial propane tanks that power and heat the facility, and today they were scheduled to be refilled before the snow properly settles in the mountains making the roads difficult to access during winter.

The refilling had already been completed and the tankers should have been long on their way, so you’re surprised when you see what appears to be a fuel transfer being done between the two bobtail trucks, which is illegal except in special circumstances, and making it more concerning they're also uncomfortably close to the loading dock. 

On top of that, as far as you’re aware this compound isn’t licensed to allow truck to truck transfers at all - something that would normally only be done at the refilling plant - making it doubly illegal

And while this might not be a facility where “legality” is necessarily a top concern, that doesn’t change the fact that it’s still dangerous and incredibly stupid. 

“What are you doing?” You blurt out, standing stock-still as you stare at Anatoly, the man who seems to be directing what’s happening. You weren’t necessarily on friendly terms with the Sokovian man, but you had chatted occasionally and he’d seemed to have more sense than this.

“We didn’t want to do it right next to the big tanks.” He gestures across the yard.

You continue to stare, perplexed. 

“Ok, well, you shouldn’t be doing it here at all, but now you’re right next to the building, and the five pound tanks -” 

“It was the only place flat enough for both trucks.”

“- are a lot closer than those big ones.” 

“Don’t worry, it’s fine.” He brushes you off, starting to get visibly frustrated that you won’t let it go.

Changing tacks you turn to one of the drivers who’s in conversation with Milo, a welder you recognize from another shift.

“Hey, you know you’re not supposed to be doing this here, right?”

“He doesn’t know how, so I’m doing it for him,” Anatoly replies before the driver can answer himself. “You’re making a big deal from nothing.”

“Why are you doing it at all? Unless there’s an emergency you can’t just -”

“I’ve done it before.”

“That’s not the point.”

“Listen, they both would've had to go back to their plant, but now one can go straight to the next job.”

“So let me get this straight: Doing a favour for someone whose job doesn’t have anything to do with you is a good enough reason to create a potentially dangerous situation here? I don’t think that Klaue will love hearing that.”

“You’re not going to tell him.” His annoyed demeanor quickly shifts, his expression going icy.

“No? Why wouldn’t I? You’re doing something incredibly stupid and I think that he should-”

“So you’re going to snitch on me?” He sneers.

“About this? Yeah, I guess I am. And if you’re concerned about him finding out then you must have at least enough common sense to-”

“I don’t need common sense to know that you- ”

“Jesus Christ, would you let me finish a fucking sentence!”

Your voice surprises you and to Anatoly’s credit he actually shuts up, scowling like a petulant teenager who’s realizing that they’re not going to be able to intimidate their way out of trouble. 

The other workers who had been milling around and watching half-interestedly now straighten up and turn towards the trucks.

“You.” Gesturing at both drivers, pleased that they at least appear to be somewhat chastised. 

“You are supposed to be in control at all times. These trucks are your responsibility from start to finish and you’re letting him do something that’s illegal just to save a bit of time?”

“He offered!” The first one exclaims.

“Which he shouldn’t have, but you should have said no and moved on.”

You turn back to Anatoly whose mouth is downturned in an almost comical grimace. 

“And you may think this is no big deal but I very much doubt that Klaue would appreciate you being so flippant about potentially damaging his operation.”

He looks like he wants to say something else but bites his tongue, his stare still condescending even though he knows you’re right and has no argument left. 

At this point, and while you wouldn’t be surprised to learn it, you’re not yet aware that there’s a crack in the hose near to the end connected to the receiving truck. Before you’d even gone outside propane vapour had been steadily leaking out, the only indication that there was a problem the occasional whiff of mercaptan - faint and not out of the ordinary from a typical delivery.

Normally this wouldn’t be an issue and the vapours would simply disperse since you’re outdoors, but it’s unusually calm today with next to no breeze to move the air, allowing the heavier than air propane molecules to instead pool between the trucks like an invisible low-lying fog.

As it is, you’re relieved when everything is finally disconnected and sealed up, and having abandoned your inventory you turn to make your way back inside to try to get this documented, even if others think that you really are overreacting and Anatoly doesn’t face the consequences you think he should.

“You know, maybe next time you could- ”

You’re cut off again, but instead of a condescending comment this time it's by the sudden percussion of an explosion. 

When the full truck’s engine started up an unknown faulty battery sparked and ignited the vapours that had been collecting, the flashback loud enough that your ears don’t register the sound until you’re already on the ground. 

Fortunately you manage not to hit your head but your shoulder feels like you’re lucky it didn’t dislocate when you landed. Slowly pushing yourself up onto your elbow you look around, blinking until your vision slowly comes back into focus and you realize with a sinking feeling that the truck itself is now burning, flames appearing to emerge from one of the valves at the rear.

“Goddamnit,” you curse, momentarily frozen in place as you watch the flames growing quickly in front of your eyes. 

You know that as the temperature rises the pressure inside the tanker does as well, and it needs to be stopped before the valve can no longer vent faster than the pressure is building, and  you have no way of knowing whether any of the internal mechanisms were damaged in the explosion, so you may have even less time than normal.

Finally you manage to convince your muscles to move. Sucking in a breath you grit your teeth and force yourself to standing, moving as quickly as you can to reach the cabinet that houses the fire extinguishers, and then Milo is suddenly there next to you.

“I’ll take this one,” he offers and you quickly nod your thanks. Maneuvering over to the truck you unspool your hose and get as close as you can until the heat of the flames forces you back.

Stumbling briefly from the recoil when you pull the nozzle’s lever back you grimace at the sudden jolt of pain in your shoulder but manage to recover quickly, widening your stance to better brace yourself and focus the thick white cloud on the brightest part of the fire. 

Thankfully the flames seem to be quickly smothered and you move closer as the heat begins to die down. Occasionally you or Milo alternate your focus on the truck’s own fuel tank, working to extinguish the burning propane while also trying to prevent the diesel from possibly igniting as well. 

You can see Tom in your peripheral now, dimly aware of him barking directions, relieved that someone else was there to take charge, and even when the fire appears to be doused you keep your hoses pointed at the truck until both extinguishers have been completely emptied.

Finally, after what feels like hours but was probably less than fifteen minutes since you had walked outside you take a deep, shaky breath and simply sit down right where you stand in the mess of slush and extinguisher residue.

You can almost feel the adrenaline physically draining out of your system, your jaw involuntarily clenching as you begin to shiver. You’re not sure who’s hand squeezes your shoulder, your mind feels fuzzy as mild shock sets in, and it takes conscious effort to release your grip from the hose that’s still sitting across your lap and slowly stand back up.

You're buzzing wildly between a range of emotions: anger, frustration, relief, a blanket of exhaustion settling over all of it as you waver on unsteady legs, tamping down the thoughts of how much more badly this could have gone.

Two days after the incident with the trucks and the ringing in your ears has nearly stopped, and aside from stiff muscles and a painterly bruise blooming across your shoulder you'd come out of it all more or less unscathed.

Once the chaos had wound down and things could be assessed it was fortunate that damage was minimal and the overall injuries turned out to be minor, mostly cuts and bruises from being knocked over or from the burst of gravel from the initial explosion. Even the alarming amount of blood you'd seen running down Anatoly’s face ended up just being a superficial gash.

There are already at least two versions of what happened circulating through the facility, one casting your actions more favourably and one much less so (no question where that one started), though you’re not particularly concerned which version others decide to believe. Enough people witnessed what actually happened, and regardless you know that what you did was the right thing, and you’re confident that Klaue will see that.

You haven’t had a chance to talk to him yet but he's supposed to be on his way back, abandoning the South African coast early to assess the damage and meet with the kind of investigators that a facility that doesn’t exist in the strictest sense will allow.

Although you have his return to look forward to, you can’t help still feeling on edge as the dregs of adrenaline continue to circulate in your blood, and you regularly have to force yourself to take a deep inhale when you realize that your breathing has gone shallow again.

Fortunately you’ve had a simple job the last couple of days, spending your shift taking apart scrap metal to be sent to a foundry to be melted down. Oxy acetylene cutting can be physically taxing and it's hot as hell but it doesn’t require finesse, and right now you’re happy to simply let muscle memory guide you, focusing only on regulating the flow of gas and keeping the glide of the flame’s sharp tip steady as you work. 

You’re waiting for the disassembled pieces you'd just cut to cool before moving them so that you can start on the next section when there’s a sudden burst of activity at the entrance to the shop, and when you turn towards the disturbance you see that Klaue has just walked in.

His eyes have already found you but the swell of excitement at seeing him unexpectedly is quickly replaced by confusion when you register his dark expression.

“You.” He points, singling you out from the crowd. “Come with me.”

Your mouth drops open in surprise at the anger in his tone, and when you don’t immediately move to follow he raises his eyebrows, impatience clear in the tight set of his jaw.

“Now.” He grits through clenched teeth.

“Ohh, someone’s in trouble.” 

You whip around to find the source of the taunt, the anger and frustration that you haven’t fully processed surging out in a red-hot wave, and the words are out before you can think.

“Shut the fuck up!” 

The idiot is looking at you like he’s made some world-class joke and you're ready to lay into him, but suddenly his focus moves behind you and the smirk drops away as the blood drains from his face.

Slowly turning to follow his eyes you see Klaue standing as still as a steel lathe with his arm extended, but it takes several seconds for you to register that the leather holster on his leg is empty and his gun now aimed at the center of the man's chest.

“Shit.” You gasp. 

All of the oxygen seems to have been sucked out of the room and you're rooted to the spot, your hearing gone muffled and tinny. The joker’s eyes are flashbulb wide, standing with his arms jutting into the air as though that might have any impact on what happens next.

Every inch of Klaue appears calm, you might almost say he was relaxed if it weren't for the weapon in his hand. But the unmistakable fury in his eyes colours them nearly black, an obsidian blade glinting in the shadows simply waiting for an excuse to strike, and though he speaks quietly you know that everyone watching this happen can hear every word clear as day. 

“If you ever speak to her about anything other than this job again...” 

He doesn't finish the sentence, he doesn't have to, the sound of the safety lever being flicked off is deafening. The only movement in the room is the flex of tendons in Klaue's hand as his thumb deftly finds the switch.

You’re not sure whether the man is actually breathing, and even though your own heart is pounding out of your chest you find that you’re not exactly upset about the look of abject fear in his eyes.

“No! I mean I won’t! I didn’t mean anything, I’m sorry I-” he stammers, panicked eyes flicking back and forth between the weapon and Klaue’s face, forcing his hands almost comically high until his biceps are covering his ears. 

No one else speaks.

After several more excruciating seconds you finally hear the click of the safety re-engaging and you let out the breath you’d been holding as he slowly replaces the gun in its holster.

Then he turns back to you and repeats:

“Now.”

You have to work to keep up with Klaue’s brisk pace as you make your way through the warren of hallways, eventually ending up in an area you’d only passed by before. You follow him into a room filled with various pieces of vaguely familiar military equipment, a heavy desk and a bank of monitors against one wall, and in your still flustered state it’s only when he closes the door behind you that you realize that he’s taken you to his office.

He walks over and leans on the desk, weight braced on his knuckles as his shoulders rise and fall, each breath slow and deep.

He doesn’t speak, doesn’t look at you - in fact he hasn’t looked at you since he’d turned away expecting you would follow.

“Klaue?”

You think that you note a brief hitch in his breathing, but beyond that he doesn’t respond. 

“Listen, it’s been a long couple of days and I’d really appreciate it if you’d tell me what’s going on.”

“What you did was dangerous.” He replies quietly, finally seeming to find his words.

You sigh. You’re not entirely surprised that that’s what this is about but you’re still irritated and your lingering anger is back at the surface, leaving you fighting to keep your response measured. You’re not the one who’d done anything wrong. You thought he’d understand that.

“I did what needed to be done, that whole situation was getting worse by the second.“

“You put yourself in harm's way. There was no need to get that close when there had already been an explosion.”

“So was I just supposed to stand around with my mouth hanging open like almost everyone else? Or walk away and pretend that nothing was happening?”

“You didn’t need to get yourself involved, period. Those men would have dealt with the consequences of their actions.”

You throw your hands up in resignation.

“This is perfect, I was one of the few people actually trying to help, and yet I’m the one you’re taking it out on? That seems par for the course in all of this.”

Finally Klaue turns around to face you.

“I’m not- ”

"What about Milo? Or more importantly the asshole that actually caused the whole fucking mess??" You're close to yelling now, unable to help it as your anger and disappointment finally boil over.

"Do you really think he hasn't already been dealt with?” He replies sharply. “He’s gone, and won't be stepping foot in another shop anywhere, ever again. I'll be making sure of it.”

There's something flat in his eyes that cloaks the usual sharp blue.

“Ok, well…good.” You’re happy to hear it, though you’re still only somewhat placated. “But that doesn’t change the fact that the damage could have been so much worse if that truck had kept burning. I had to do something."

"That shouldn’t be your concern. I would have handled it."

“More people would have gotten injured.”

“I’m aware.”

“Or killed!"

"You could have gotten- "

He cuts himself off with a sharp exhale, fists balled tight at his sides. 

He hasn’t raised his voice until now, but it's his tone and the way his words waver that gives you pause. As you watch Klaue collect himself you feel something trying to work its way into your chest - something that’s whispering to you what that clouded look in his eyes might have been. 

Fear.

He’s visibly tense, lips pressed in a thin line as he takes a step toward you, broad shoulders curling inwards in an almost protective posture.

“I know you didn’t have anything to do with the accident, and that you wanted to help. But what you did still wasn't-”

He stops again and it surprises you, normally so certain of his words and not exactly afraid to speak his mind, you instead watch the muscles of his jaw working as his eyes burn into yours.

“This is a risky job.” You finally break the silence, trying to reason with him, taking your own tentative step closer to him. “Even when I’m not working for an arms dealer, by the way. Anywhere in this trade mistakes like that can happen.”

There’s a soft “careful” in the quick tilt of his head, and even now you feel a spark of relief at the flash of that familiar part of him.

“And you got hurt here.” 

You only realize that your hand has been rubbing your bruised shoulder when you notice his eyes have shifted to watch your fingers.

“So did other people! Why am I being singled out? What is the concern about me?” 

A part of him seems to drift from you again, and when he doesn’t respond a vice of cold steel begins to tighten around your chest. Has he discerned the real question that was hidden in your words? Is he angry? Disappointed? Indifferent?

Damnit, you curse yourself. 

You wished you hadn’t said it  but the recent stress has eroded your filters and you couldn’t help but push. Even though you’re not going to get the answer you can barely admit that you want.

“If you had really been hurt. If you had gotten killed..” 

When his eyes focus on you again there’s a coldness in them that you’ve only seen hints of before, but now it’s right there at the surface, clear and sharp and seething.

“That man wouldn’t be gone, he would be dead.” 

Oh.

Klaue’s words are laced with a calm certainty that sets your heart racing, your skin prickling hot under the weight of his gaze as you stand there shocked silent by his admission, unsure how to respond.

Just as suddenly as it appeared the cold begins to melt away, his eyes sweeping over you as if confirming that you’re still there, still whole and standing in front of him.

“Did you think I wouldn’t be concerned about you?” He asks, a curious frown knitting his brows.

You’re not sure how to respond to that either and you’re quiet for several long moments, chewing your lower lip while you consider, nervous for a different reason now.

He’s pushing you back, and it’s what you wanted (what you needed), not letting you get away with hiding, because if you’re going to ask the question you need to answer it, too.

But he must know it’s not a simple question, and right now you can’t give him a simple answer.

“I don’t…know what this is.” You start, haltingly. 

The first threads of an admission that there’s something for this to be. 

An admission that although a part of you has known it since the first night he slowly, achingly buried himself inside you, you can no longer pretend that he hasn’t already ruined you.

”Neither do I.” He concedes, slowly closing the last steps that separate you, surprised to find yourself relaxing at his words. It's not an answer, not yet, but still an acknowledgement, that you’re both uncertain but unable to help the way that you’re drawn together. Moths lost in the dark, instinctively picking up on the invisible spark of the other.

His hand reaches up to touch the shoulder that you'd been massaging.

“Let me see.” Klaue rumbles softly as he moves to lift the edge of your shirt, and silently you help him work your arm from the sleeve before he pulls the garment the rest of the way off, leaving you in your sports bra.

“I don’t know that I have to know, but I-” 

You start to speak but then inhale a sharp breath when his palm slides over your shoulder, soothing the bruised warmth, fingers also dance along the scar on your other arm which was fortunately not the side you’d landed on.

“And I don’t know if I can tell you.” His frown deepens as he takes in the angry bloom of purpling skin. “But I haven’t been able to think about anyone else since you’ve been here.” 

You hadn’t assumed anything but you can’t help the sting of relief, even as you fight to hold back the dam of want that’s cracking open beneath your ribs.

But when his hand slides up over your shoulder, your neck, tilting your head so that you meet his eyes, you realize that it's a battle you've already lost.

Your fingers curl around his wrist, the other hand pressing flat against the firm warmth of his chest. 

“I hadn’t been seeing anyone for a while, before Utrech..” You start and then pause, your eyes slipping closed with a sigh as you sink into the sensation of his palm against your cheek. “But even when I was still trying to pretend that I didn’t…since then it hasn’t even occurred to me to think about anyone but you.” 

“Is that right?” Klaue’s voice hums with a pleased timbre though his eyes flick searchingly across your face.

“Yes. There’s no one else. Not now, not-”

Not ever.

“No one has ever come close to making me feel the way you do, Ulysses. And maybe I don’t know what this is, but…I know that I don’t want to stop.” 

The last words come out in a breathless rush, forced out before you can overthink and lock them away again. Finally admitting it as much to yourself as to him.

“I’m not going to stop, darling. Not a fucking chance.” 

You nearly laugh with giddy relief but it’s interrupted when his hand tightens around your jaw, leaning in so that his mouth is hovering over yours as you press your body flush against him, arching into the stiffening ridge of his erection that juts into your hip.

You try to angle your mouth to find the warmth of his lips against yours, but strong hands continue to hold you just there, a breath apart. The air has shifted, a charge growing in the dwindling space between you that leaves your skin tingling from the near contact, and when you feel a faint brush of his lips against yours an audible whine slides from your throat.

“That night, after the bar, I thought about you.” Klaue continues.

“You did?” 

“Yes.” He nearly groans the word. “Thought about how you'd taste when you come.” 

The wet heat that’s been building in your core surges at his words, at the sudden image of him flushed and sweaty, his fist moving in rough strokes over his swollen cock and the thought of you in his head.

One of your hands begins to slide between your bodies, needy fingers plucking at his belt, reaching beneath the waistband and tugging.

“Thought about taking you into the back, finding a quiet corner, having you on your knees in front- in front of me.” His voice hitches and he shudders when you find the now stiff curve of his cock beneath the fabric.

“And then..when you were there, kneeling, I was sure I was dreaming. But you were so much better than my dreams. Such a tease, weren’t you?” He hums, and you can hear the grin even as his voice drops to a rasp of granite and silk. 

“Thinking you could get away with that.”

Klaue’s hips rock into your touch as you squeeze more firmly, sliding your hand along the shape of him, rewarded with a harsh sigh as he pulls back and fixes his eyes fix on yours. You thrill at the heat that you find there, helplessly reaching for the flames that lick against your skin. 

That invite you to burn.

“I didn’t think that for a second. But I already apologized, didn’t I?” 

A flash of him holding you against the door, desperation on your lips as he finally let you fall apart.

“Oh, you thought that was your apology? Getting to come on my fingers?”

“I didn’t, I mean-” You stammer, the movement of your hand faltering even as his admonition sends another wave of heat through your body.

“I’m afraid not, darling. And right now..” Your eyelids flutter and it takes a moment to realize that he’s waiting to make sure he has your attention.

“Y-yes?”

“Maybe I do.”

“You do…what?” Frowning, you try to figure out his meaning through the growing haze of arousal.

“Want to take it out on you.”

Your eyes snap to his, molten sapphire when you meet them.

“And maybe,” Klaue’s thumb swipes across the corner of your lips. “I want to take it out on this mouth of yours.”

His eyes flick down to catch your tongue peeking out as you reflexively lick your lips.

“Because a day hasn’t gone by that I haven’t thought about that sweet promise you made on your knees.” 

His thumb slides against the seam of your lips, smug when they part easily beneath the pressure.

He tsks, but any response you might give is cut off when he pushes past your teeth and your tongue gratefully tastes the calloused skin. But just as you move to take his thumb deeper into your mouth he pulls back, quickly replacing it with his index and middle fingers before you can lament the loss, and you can’t help but moan around the thick digits.

Eagerly you begin to slide your mouth along them, slowly bobbing your head, taking them further until they’re far enough back that your gag reflex triggers and your body stiffens, squeezing your eyes shut as you force yourself to take slow breaths.

Eventually your eyelids flutter open again, your focus coming back to him and the pleased look in his eyes.

Once you catch your breath you increase the suction of your lips to pull his fingers a little deeper, your tongue teasing around and between his two fingers, the texture of his warm skin contrasted with the smooth edges of his ring.

The next time you pull back he takes the opportunity to add a third finger, his other hand reaching up to cup the back of your neck, gently but firmly holding your head in place as he slides them all the way into your mouth again until his thumb and pinky are cradling your jaw.

Klaue’s mouth has dropped open, his breathing gone rough as he watches your lips stretching around his fingers. Both of your hands have moved to grip his shirt, steadying yourself, your eyes beginning to water as your breath comes in quick gasps.

“Shhh,” he soothes. “Just like that.”

His fingers stay where they are until your breathing slows again, nearly wincing at the deep velvet of his gaze on you, soft but inescapable. 

You still feel the instinct to gag, but once your throat relaxes the rest of you follows, and you sigh as he withdraws a little, rubbing gentle circles against your tongue. Your inhibitions are quickly falling away as you become focused only on more, moaning as his fingers continue to move, the thumb of his hand that’s curled around your neck caressing the sensitive skin there.

A heady thrum of desire is growing, settling deep between your thighs as you watch him through heavy-lidded eyes as he alternates between slowly pumping and then pressing deep and holding there, pleased when your breathing evens out more quickly every time.

Watching his expression cloud over with lust it occurs that you’d never really thought about how much he liked this. How watching your lips, and feeling your warm, slick mouth around his fingers as they grow shiny with your spit has him barely hanging on.

“That’s my needy girl.” 

Klaue’s words are a sigh, almost a release, the tension when you had first followed him ebbing from his body, smoothing the set of his shoulders as his fingers continue to move.

You shudder again, unable to hold back the keening sounds from escaping your throat, your center already soaked and aching and you don’t even have his cock in your mouth yet.

“What’s the matter, isn’t this enough?” His words are cut with a smug glint of gold, seeming to guess what you’re thinking about.

And honestly you would let him keep doing this if he wanted, turning you into a mindless mess with just his fingers and only your eyes able to plead wordlessly for more. But he said he was going to fuck your mouth, and the narrowing of your eyes answers his question.

His unoccupied hand releases your neck and takes one of your hands, returning it to the waist of his pants where you quickly work at his belt and zipper, determined though distracted by the continued slip and drag through your lips. 

Eventually you manage to reach beneath the fabric to grip his hard length, your other hand tugging the layers down until you’re able to free his cock. The movement of his fingers falters at your touch but then he’s grinning when your moans become more plaintive, saliva spilling from the corners of your mouth as your hand hungrily strokes the intoxicating heat of him.

“Now, don’t swallow.” Klaue murmurs.

You have a split second to frown before he withdraws, realization dawning when you have to quickly close your mouth to keep from drooling.

Unable to reply, you wait a beat before your eyebrows raise in a question.

“On your knees.” His hand drops, slick fingers replacing yours where they’re wrapped around his length.

Your breath catches with anticipation, and unable and unwilling to hide how eager you are now you keep your eyes on his as you sink down slowly until the thick circle of his fist is directly in front of you, the slit already leaking as he strokes himself. 

The sight of it has you aching, desperate for your lips to replace the languid slide of his fingers, to take him deep into your mouth then and nose into the dark, grey-flecked hair that spreads from the base of him.

“Now, spit on my cock, darling.”

Your reverie suddenly broken you look up to see him watching you intently, eyes dark and commanding, his hand now gripping the thick base, holding himself out to you.

Waiting.

Still unable to reply, all you can do - all you want to do - is acquiesce. So you lean forward and slowly let the saliva slide from your parted lips until it drops onto the head of his cock, his palm quickly gathering and dragging your offering down his length, groaning at the slide of it beneath his fingers.

Only when you hear the low timbre of his laugh do you realize that you’re practically pouting as your eyes eagerly follow the movement of his hand.

You lean forward again, glossy lips parting in anticipation, but his other hand quickly reaches to grasp your hair and stops you. 

You’re agonizingly close, not caring how desperate you must look straining against his grip as your tongue flicks out, the sounds of skin on slick skin making you increasingly desperate to taste him as he holds you just out of reach of what you want.

“Look at you.” Klaue croons.“You’re always switched on. You’re strong and I can see how hard you work, and I want you to know how much I appreciate that.”

You flush at his praise, briefly distracted from your conquest.

“But when I use your mouth…then I get to watch you let go. I can tell that you don’t like to do it for yourself, so I’m going to do it for you. Going to empty that head of yours.”

His hips nudge toward you and this time when your lips drop open he lets you move to meet him.

He sucks a hiss through his teeth when you press a wet kiss against the thick head of his cock, chased by a relieved groan as you let your lips smear the glisten of precum that continues to leak there, fresh heat blooming between your legs at the sounds this draws from him.

You keep the muscles of your jaw relaxed and pliant as you press slowly forward. Not sucking yet, simply using the head of his cock to part your lips to slide over the already slick skin, slowly and thoroughly mapping the shape of him with your mouth.

And he's right, of course. You can feel yourself relaxing as you finally taste the musk of his heated skin, humming contentedly as your tongue swirls around the head and drags over the sensitive frenulum, the tension of the last few days finally draining away with every languorous slip of your mouth. 

A different kind of tension quickly swelling deep in your core.

“Jesus.” Klaue sighs above you as you gradually take him deeper, one hand braced on his thigh while the other wraps around him, his cock achingly hard beneath your fingers. 

Still loosely holding your hair he's letting you work him, your own pleased moans slipping from your throat as you lick hungrily over every ridge and vein, savouring the salty tang of his velvet-slick skin warm against your tongue

Pleasure thrums through your body, growing hotter with the attention you’re giving him, but as you take him deeper again, your lips stretching wider, realization flickers in the back of your mind that you haven’t even taken him halfway yet and you’re already growing overwhelmed by how full your mouth is. 

But, god, the ragged sound he makes when you slide down until his cock nudges the back of your throat makes your cunt throb, so you pull back so that you’re holding just the tip of him between your lips and then you do it again, reveling in every inch that you can take.

Slowly you build a steady rhythm until saliva is dripping down your chin, he's continuing to let you control the pace for now, allowing you to breathe and adjust until he’s deeper than when he was on the couch.

Your hunger is growing, though, and soon you're pushing forward with more intention and when your throat spasms you swallow reflexively, your eyes watering when this draws him in further. Klaue’s moans deepen at the ripple of the muscles around his cock but you’re unable to fight it any longer and you gag, even as his drawn out “Fuck” has your hips rocking.

Squeezing your eyes shut you just barely manage to stay where you are, tears dampening your lashes until you finally have to pull back, although you keep him in your mouth, breathing hard through your nose to catch your breath.

“It’s alright,” he rasps. ”Don’t think you’re going to be able to take all of me right now, darling. But you’ll take as much as you can, and when you can swallow every inch of my cock then you’ll get to feel me come down your throat.” 

You can’t help the muffled sound you make that’s equal parts arousal and disappointment.

“Don’t worry, I’m still going to make a pretty mess of your mouth," he teases, his heaving chest and half-lidded eyes betraying his own growing need.

Not that he isn’t doing a fair job of it already, of course, unable to properly swallow, your chin is quickly growing shiny with drool. The pressure of his other hand still cradling the back of your neck firm but soothing as he holds you in place, as the still restrained flex of his hips begins seeking the wet heat of your mouth again, and you sigh at the intoxicating weight of his cock dragging against your tongue.

As you relax your awareness drifts back down to the heat between your legs, the slick press of the seam of your pants against your sex barely relieving the ache there as you squeeze your thighs together. 

After a few more slow thrusts he presses forward into the back of your throat again, and as he holds himself there you take a shaky breath and swallow once, and then again, taking more of him than you have so far. 

“There you go, God-”

You try to hollow your cheeks to pull him in further but you gag again when he bucks suddenly, his words cut off with a growled curse.

“It’s alright,” Klaue soothes, pulling back to give you a moment to recover, though it was more startling than painful. “You’re doing so fucking well.” 

Looking up at him you see that his eyes are screwed shut, head bowed and breathing hard, concentration etched clearly across his face. When he finally opens his them he can only groan at the sight of your tear-damp reverence, his attention is first drawn first to where he's disappearing into your mouth as he starts to move again, but it’s not long before they catch instead on the needy cant of your hips.

“You do love this, don’t you? Have you soaked through your panties already?”

You can only let out a whimpered moan as you attempt to nod.

He hasn’t let you take his cock out of your mouth yet and you can feel the drool that continues to spill from your lips beginning to collect and drip off of your chin, down onto your chest where it slicks the skin between your breasts.

There’s a flicker in the back of your mind, a needling thought that you should feel…ashamed. By the mess, and your neediness, by how much you fucking adore being on your knees for this man. 

But that flicker is quickly snuffed out as Klaue continues to use your mouth, and as you take in the look of awe in his eyes, when you feel his thumb softly stroking over the curve of your cheekbone, you realize that you don’t feel below him. 

That although you're on your knees, it feels like you’re the one being worshiped.

You want to focus on him and you try, really you do, but the heated ache in your cunt is becoming unbearable and you can't  help shifting and squeezing your thighs together, made breathless by your need as much as by the fullness of him in your mouth.

He's has been watching - and clearly enjoying - this increasingly desperate movement of your hips, but finally he seems to take pity on you.

“Do you want to touch yourself, darling? Want to come while you drool all over my cock?” 

Even through his tease you can feel how his own words affect him in the quickening buck of his hips.

“Go on then, feel how wet your pussy is just from this.”

The words are barely past his lips and you’re already moving, but just as you manage to work your hand beneath the waistband of your pants he speaks again.

“Slow.” 

The word is quiet but firm, Klaue's tone softer than before yet shot through with an irresistible command and you pause, glancing back up.

His shoulders and neck are impossibly broad from this vantage, eyes bright but tinged with a smoky darkness that does away with your resistance, and you know with a thrilling certainty that as desperate as you are for relief, in this moment you’d do whatever he asked.

Keeping your eyes locked on his you begin to move again, dipping your hand down - slowly.

“That’s it. Slip your hand into your panties now. Just- just one finger, darling.” His voice is uneven and clipped like he's having to concentrate on forming the words. “Slide it along that pretty slit of yours. Barely need to press to feel it, don’t you? How wet you are.”

You can only whimper in response, the building ache between your thighs only made worse by how close you are to relief, by how you could increase the pressure just slightly and you’d be able to part yourself and find your desperate bundle of nerves.

“You have no idea how delicious that first taste of you is. So fucking sweet.” 

There’s an edge to his words, as though he were jealous of your fingers, that they get to slide and tease between your legs and not his tongue.

There’s barely any friction beneath your index finger, but the soft glide combined with his grunted breaths above you has you clenching and it's near agony to keep your movements slow and controlled, fighting against every instinct in your body not to give in as your sex quivers, pleading for more.

So instead you pull your focus back to his cock and let your mouth move the way you wish your fingers could, quickly and hungrily sliding your lips along his shaft until with a sudden movement you take him into the back of your throat again and keep him there, your hand stroking the part of him you can't take.

“Christ,” he grits through his teeth, your scalp stinging from the quick jerk of his hand in your hair. “Not yet.” 

You can't tell if this is directed at you or himself as he swallows and releases a shuddered breath, his voice strained when he speaks again.

“Slide two fingers over your clit for me, now.” 

Relief ripples up your spine as you eagerly press through your drenched folds, fingers dragging against your swollen bud, unable to let out more than a choked sound as you push forward to keep his cock where it is in your throat, hot tears spilling over.

“Again.” 

Your touch grows rougher, matching his words, feeling the inevitable swell of pleasure growing as you float there, caught in the riptide of his voice.

”Want to go faster, don’t you?” Klaue rasps. “Want to reach down to feel how soaked your needy hole is?” 

You do, trembling fingers unable to help chasing the path of his words as if they were his tongue instead, sliding along your slick cleft and down to gather more of your arousal. 

Pleasure strings tighter when your fingers slide back up and over your clit, cursing  him internally as you gasp short breaths through your nose. You try to relax your throat even as every other muscle in your body draws tight, unsure how much longer you can keep yourself from falling over the edge.

You can’t really tell him, only your eyes can plead, I’m close, I’m so close it feels so good please let me come. 

“So used to begging with that pretty mouth.” He taunts with a breathless growl, reading your desperation, his lips curled in a grin at your half-delirious expression.

“It's alright, I know how good it's making you feel to use your mouth like this instead. Just like I know you’re going to make yourself come now.”

You're so close to lost that it takes a second for you to process his command, but when you do something in you snaps.

Your fingers immediately find a tight rhythm as you chase the swollen edge of pleasure, his fist gripping your hair tight to hold you firmly in place as your movements begin to grow frantic, unable to control any part of you as the blinding heat of your climax finally shocks through you.

The muscles of your throat spasm as your cunt flutters around nothing, desperate sounds caught in your chest as your hips buck and writhe against your fingers. Your other hand is entirely lost to any sense of rhythm and it drops to grasp at the fabric covering his thigh in an attempt to find purchase, and then suddenly his hand not in your hair is there, strong fingers twining tightly with yours, holding on to you as you fall apart.

“That’s it,” Klaue pants, his voice thick with lust and awe. “Choke on my cock while you come.”

You want to curse and cry and plead as ecstasy works its way through you in eddies and purls, and it almost feels like you might be drowning but you’re powerless to want anything else but to drown in him, trembling with relief as your fingers roughly work every pulse of pleasure from your clit.

As the waves begin to soften your other senses gradually filter back in: the ache in your throat and your jaw, the sting in your knees where they press into the floor, and when your body slackens as you start to come down he allows you pull back enough to properly catch your breath. 

Slowly you’re able to focus again, eyes damp and red rimmed as you look up at him, but you only have a brief moment to appreciate his pleased expression before his eyes go storm dark.

“Going to come in your mouth, now.”

Fingers tighten in your hair once more and then he’s moving. His thrusts are rough now with surrendered control as his hips chase a harsh rhythm, a low groan rolling through his chest that's woven together with your name as he finally gives in and takes what you'd promised. 

You attempt to tighten your lips around him as his rasping curses continue above you, but it’s no use, all you can do is kneel and relent to the slide of his cock filling your mouth again and again.

You want to beg him, words that fall so easily from your lips now when you sense that he’s about to let go for you, but you can only whine for it, your plaintive noises slipping messily around his cock until the pattern of his thrusts falters. And then, finally, there's only bliss when you hear his choked gasp as he stiffens, and you feel the first warm spurts of his spend coating your tongue.

With a low, open-mouthed moan he continues to fuck into the wet suck of your mouth, spilling himself across your lips and chin as well as your tongue until pearly ropes of cum are mixing with your drool, the mess of it dripping in slick stands off of your chin.

Then suddenly Klaue pulls out completely for the first time since this started and at first you can only gasp and cough, but when his hand wraps around himself your mouth instinctively drops open. Resting the head of his cock against the offering of your tongue he slowly strokes though the last pulses of his orgasm, making sure to give you every last drop, dragging through the slick mess with slow, sated thrusts until his fist gradually stills.

Eventually he pulls back though not away, panting and heavy lidded as he looks down at you where you kneel, a shining strand strung between his tip and your swollen lips that glisten with the pearly sheen he’s painted them with.

“Now you can swallow, darling.” 

You’re not sure if you should laugh or sob, but fighting both you make sure to keep your eyes on his as you curl your tongue back into your mouth and swallow, before dragging your fingers across your chin to gather the mess he left there, too.

A lazy smile curves his lips as he watches your mouth sliding around your fingers, and once you've cleaned as much as you can your hand drops, both of them resting on the tops of your thighs. 

Gently, the backs of Klaue’s fingers brush at the streaks of tears that are beginning to dry on your cheeks, then one slowly hooks under your chin to tip your head up, not letting you hide, leaving you startled by the affection that vines its way through your ribcage, burrowing into the want that even now burns hot. 

The want that folds into a desperation to please him, to give and take everything until the only thing left is your desire. 

You wish that you could explain it to him, that you could say something coherent, but any words you try to form seem to dissipate before they can reach your mouth, and you’re unsure that you could even articulate your thoughts as you sit in the filmy haze of your afterglow. 

So when you do open your mouth you're nearly as caught off guard by the words that come out as he is, your voice an almost unfamiliar, grateful rasp.

“Thank you.” 

Klaue’s satisfied grin falls away, his lips parting with a groaned sigh and then he’s reaching down, a hand curling around your bicep to pull you up to standing. You waver against the stiffness in your legs but he supports you, his palm again finding its place against your cheek.

He pauses, really taking in the state of you: your dazed expression and cock-swollen lips, standing there bruised and mussed and shirtless and pleased, his large hand brushing across your chin to catch more of the sheen there, words seeming to hover on the tip of his tongue.

The line between his brows deepens with a purse of his lips, a barely perceptible shake of his head. 

“You’re going to be the death of me, klein Mot.”

Then he's pulling you against him, his lips suddenly on yours and he's kissing you deeply, licking hungrily into your mouth and you swiftly grow breathless as he chases the taste of himself on your tongue. But just as you’re sinking into it, he pulls away. 

“Come here.” 

He turns with you, quickly crowding you back against his desk, hands reach down to wrap around your thighs and you quickly brace against the surface as he lifts you until you’re perched on the edge of it.

Your legs fall open easily as he moves forward, his focus coming to rest on you again as his hands slide up to circle your waist.

“You did so fucking well.” A smile tugs at his lips again as thumbs trail soft patterns against your bare skin. “Are you alright?” 

Warmth blooms at his concern, an unexpected contrast with what had just transpired.

“Yes.” You’re still finding your voice, still feeling like you're catching your breath, but you’re good. More than.

“You're sure?”

Leaning forward you slide your arms around his broad waist, hitching your legs up as well, drawing him into you.

“Yes, I promise.” You assure, brushing the ghost of a smile against his lips. “And…I promise that I won’t lie to you if anything is too much.”

“Good.” Klaue pulls back to look at you, a pleased edge of gold glinting in the blue before a more serious expression settles into the creases around eyes. “Because I'm going to keep pushing you.” 

You inhale sharply, a fresh throb of heat blooming in your still slick core as your legs tighten around his hips.

“I want you to, Ulysses,” you hum, slowly arching and rolling your center against him, feeling him still half hard where he'd tucked himself back into his pants. 

“I know, my darling.” His words are knowing and smooth with the edges singed dark, hands roving slowly over the soft flesh of your waist as he continues matter-of-factly. “But right now, you’re going to have some water, and then I’m going to make you come again.”

“Yeah?” You say hopefully as you continue to move against him, chasing the heat he so easily stokes in you with just a few words.

A slow nod and a rumbled confirmation. 

“I’m going to take care of you, now, Mot. I don’t need you to make any decisions today. Except for one.”

“Oh?” 

“Not how many times you’re going to come, that's up to me. But you’re going to tell me how.”

“God, Ulysses.” You’re burning with arousal now, every inch of your skin prickling hot. “That's all?”

“Will it be my fingers?” 

His hands brush further up your waist, thumbs teasing beneath the band of your bra to just brush against the sensitive curve of your breasts before trailing back down.

“Or my mouth?”

Leaning in his lips press against your neck, a silvered shimmer of nerves swirling out from the point where his tongue flicks out to taste your skin, your body swiftly surrendering to the heat of his promise.

“Or perhaps you’d like to straddle my thigh until you’ve made a lovely mess for me.”

A needy sound rends itself from your chest as his thumbs press into the sensitive creases where your hips meet your thighs, but just as you open your mouth to reply, a loud knock sounds on the door.

“Not right now.” Klaue calls out to whoever is in the hall without pulling away from you.

“Yes, now.”

“I’m not ask-”

“It’s a call you’ve been waiting for. There's a problem.”

Jaw clenching, he exhales a sharp breath.

“Just a minute,” he replies.

“You really need to-”

“Just a minute.” Klaue snaps, his head jerking towards the door and you jump, your legs tightening around him.

“Alright, alright.” 

The man’s voice trails off and it sounds like he’s moved down the hallway, at least for now. 

When he looks back at you you’re biting your lip, the look in his eye telling you he must have noticed your reaction to his tone.

“Think about what I asked.” 

You're about to reply that you will, but something occurs to you about the suggestions he’d given you.

“Wait, is.. is your cock not an option?” You give him a coy look through your lashes, intending to tease but still a little nervous that maybe it won't be.

“Don’t worry, I’m going to fuck you, darling. If you’re good.”

A thumb grazes the corner of your mouth, distracting you momentarily from what that means as you unconsciously flick your tongue out to meet it, earning you a knowing grin when you quickly pull away with a sheepish laugh.

“So?” He says, waiting for your confirmation of his request.

“I will. I’ll…think about it.” You're nearly panting now as the rock of your hips grows needier, shocked at how quickly you can feel another orgasm building already, if you just had a few more minutes you could-

“That’s all you’ll be doing, though. Yeah?” 

Strong hands tighten around your hips, pinning their faltering movement against him and you pull back with a frown.

“Are you saying…you want me to think about how I want to come, but I can’t- ”

“Smart girl, you did hear what I said.” His gaze sweeps over your face, and you barely manage not to scoff.

“Yes, I heard you. But I mean, I did already make myself come. I made that decision.”

Klaue tilts his head, mock curiosity knitting his brows.

“Did you?”

You open your mouth to argue but then close it again, pursing your lips together in a pout. He has a point, though: It may have been your fingers, but it was his words guiding you, and you only made yourself come when he told you that you would.

“I decide,” he repeats, and you bite back a whimper when he slowly grinds you against him again. “And I've decided you're going to wait.”

There’s another, more insistent knock at the door.

“Coming.” Suddenly letting go he steps back from you, not hiding his pleasure at your pained expression as he finds and hands you your shirt which you reluctantly put back on.

“I’ll walk you back to the main corridor.” He pauses with his hand on the doorknob and raises a brow, waiting for you to follow.

“Fine. I’ll think about it.” You finally say, pushing yourself off of the desk, not bothering to hide the frustration in your voice.

“I know you will, darling.” His certainty overlaps with a challenge as he opens the door. 

Be good, and you can come on my cock. 

You shudder when his hand quickly presses against your lower back as you move past him, even the brief pressure burns hot through the fabric of your shirt, and then the door clicks shut behind you.

So, you have to wait. Again. And though you’re getting good at it now, and even knowing that it won’t be long, you’re not sure how you’re going to make it, your nerves already on fire as you part and watch him walk away.

AN: As always thank you so much for reading! 🥰 The next chapter will not be nearly as long a wait since about 75% of it was already written before I decided to split this on up! Will it be soon soon? No, but it won't be quite as long as this break as this was! Though to be fair I did write two other fics (and a drabble), flew to London, and dealt with a personal loss, and then the recovery from of all the that plus y'know, life in general. But we're finally here, and I'm glad that I made it and can finally share this with you all!

Full disclosure I am not someone who works with propane, and while much of the information is based what I've been able to find online, the accident itself is based on the events of a real explosion at a propane plant that happened in Canada several years ago. So things are likely not necessarily going to be 100% correct, but there are real variables here that would explain something like this happening.

I also want to mention that there's a line in that that was actually the first (filthy) line of not just this chapter, but also of this entire part two. I was only around halfway through part one and was just realizing there would even be a part two (the line did end up changing a bit as the story evolved, but it's still in here. 😏). Also I wrote it, closed the doc, then opened Instagram and immediately saw that Andy was coming to to Toronto. And instantly panicked. So there's that. 😂

[fluffykiddosstuff]

What is love? (nines X gn Reader)

BABY DON'T HURT ME NO MORE

Hum hum sorry guys, btw happy holidays even if I'm reaaaally late ! It was  sooo nice! There was even snow where I live!

------

You and nines were friends since last month, he came as gavin's partner two months before that, being gavin's best friend, you helped both of them to get along, you took a liking to the android, wondering why he wasn't deviant when every other android did. Connor told you it's because his software is far more advanced than the others androids, for exemple, Amanda wasn't a part of his system unlike connor had, when connor got him out of cyberlife, she instantly got erased by the rk900 software, just like a virus.

It was late in the dpd, everyone was gone, except you, nines, Gavin, hank and connor, you were all teamed on the same case and it was getting frustrating at this point.

"ugh we are not making any progress! At this rate my head will blow up.." Gavin said massaging his temples

"yeah I agree, I'm taking a break, hey, wanna go to the bar to forget this?" hank looked at you and gavin

"heck yes I am old man" Gavin got up and followed the lieutenant when you on the other hand declined politely, still wanting to re-read the reports of your case, connor chased after them, making sure they weren't intoxicated too much. Well that leaved only you and nines in front of the laptop, you readed again everything from the report out loud so nines could hear you.

"a couple was found nearby Detroit playground, an android and a human, both were shot in the chest where the heart is stated, either the killer is a surgeon due to this kind of presision, or it's an android who scanned them"

You massaged your temples just like Gavin did earlier, it was infuriating, no clues, no witnesses, you were to the  point 0 on this case, nines got up without you noticing and got you a cup of your favorite drink. You muttered a "thank you" before drinking it and looking at the screen again.

"detective, if you aren't feeling well you can go home and rest, I can work alone on this, plus, a good rest is essential when you want to achieve something"

You nodded and started to get up and gather your belongings when he stopped you in your track.

"wait I actually have a question before you go detective"

"yes what is it?"

No one spoke for like 5 minutes, he seemed to think before he was gonna ask what he wanted.

"don't you find it weird?"

"what?"

"that the couple was a human and an android?"

You thought a little about it, yeah it was a bit odd because androids didn't got their rights long time ago and still are scared or angry over humans for their loss, same for the other side, but they are exceptions after all.

"well laws are a bit weird recently but nothing state they couldn't be together"

Nines led spinned red and yellow, you looked at him when it hit you.

"you think they got killed because they loved each other?"

"that's a possibility, since the revolution, many people are still hostile on both side"

"yeah.. We should check the road cameras, maybe we could track a vehicle going in this area at the presumed death hour "

"that was what I was thinking, good conclusion detective"

You smiled and rushed a bit to him, he was still on the chair from earlier, you then kissed him on the forehead.

"you are a genius nines! We finally have a lead! I'm gonna send a message to hank and Gavin, I'm gonna go home now, see ya!"

Some blue tinted the android cheeks, he looked at you leaving the pretinct and touched his forehead where you kissed him, a warning going in front of his eyes.

Software instability ⬆️

He texted connor with his system and waited for his response.

"connor what is love?"

[odditycircus-2002]

Holiday Fun

featuring, Medusa!Reader, Syzoth, and Baraka! And in case you want context, I suggest you start all the way here.

A/N: Just some headcanons to get into the seasonal spirit and how Medusa!Reader handles winter in general. Please enjoy and don't forget to like, comment, and reblog. My inbox hungers!😁😁😁

You aren't the biggest fan of the cold, since as a child that meant more chores and work than being able to stay inside nice and warm. That and herb gathering are nigh impossible. But since you grew scales, you found that you absolutely HATED it now! While you're still technically warm-blooded, you still have difficulty staying actually warm. Something Syzoth theorized may be due to the possibility of Zatteran blood having influenced your mutation. Adding reason 5,000 to carve open Shang Tsung from the groin to the gullet the next time you see him.

You aren't able to go outside to do your usual morning basking since the chilled air leaves the Wastes colder than usual. The rocks may as well be ice at that point. It's a herculean effort for you to drag yourself out of bed and its many stacked comforters, in the morning. You refuse to go outside without at least 5 layers of clothing on you.

In fact, Baraka had to go out of his way to ask Ashrah, through Syzoth, to help set up a basking area in your living quarters, since the demoness had to do something similar for Syzoth. On the plus side, this also attracted other patients, mostly afflicted Zatterans, of yours searching to get away from the cold, which means more heat for you to be surrounded by even if it's just by proximity.

Speaking of your patients, you and Baraka make sure everyone in the Colony has plenty of winter clothing and blankets. Luckily, unlike before, Empress Mileena can provide plenty of clothing and blankets to the Tarkatan Colony, thanks to donations from Outworld. Baraka was the one to supervise the fuel for the fires to keep a steady source of heat going longer than usual. You check up on everyone even more because, of how winter brings the high risk of an uprise of Tarkat.

Besides just surviving, you and Baraka go out of your way to make things lively when it's around winter festivals. Both of you had all the more reason to see that the Feast of Thanks was a success with many Tarkatans. Like before, you make sure to incorporate a mix of festivals from all those who live in the Colony from Shokan to Zatteran. While not as many Tarkatans were able to help with decorations, by the time all of you were finished, the air seemed a tad more jubilant than usual. You contributed to decoration by using your wings to reach high cliffs and places to hang up garlands and banners. You even used your hydromancy to painstakingly create a giant chunk of ice for Baraka to carve up into a beautiful work of art. You saw how Baraka's eyes were filled with a bittersweet nostalgia when the Tarkatan children started to play in the snow made from the shredded ice.

By some divine miracle, you could drag Baraka to Johnny Cage's Holiday party briefly. You went with a mask that left the upper half of your face covered, with festive colors painted on. Although you couldn't convince Baraka to dress up in any sort of festive garb or costume. You also told Baraka about how it is custom on Earthrealm to bring food to parties, so he went out of his way to bring in a fairly large beast from the Wastes. A beast that resembles a large Earthrealm koala bear with a large horn like a rhinoceros.

Johnny Cage's eyes widened in surprise when he saw you and Baraka enter his home with this beast strewn across Baraka's shoulders before the latter dropped it at his feet.

"Make sure to remove the head before grilling the meat. I recommend having your servants cook the meat to medium rare before seasoning it generously.”

”Mmmhhh very exotic. Really appreciate the roast, even if uncooked.”

Johnny mutters the last part under his breath. Yet, he trusts Baraka's cooking instructions because, surprisingly, the creature you brought in on Thanksgiving didn't taste half bad. You then reveal to Johnny that you brought a small cauldron of what's basically hot vanilla, a traditional winter drink from your canton.

"Why didn't you bring that at the last party?!"

Baraka spent most of Cage's party standing away from the general crowd, not wanting to risk infection. The former merchant was content to watch you chat with Syzoth and Ashrah, occasionally joining in the conversation. Such as when you and Syzoth expressed your mutual distaste for winter, or Ashrah's experiencing winter festivities for the first time. At one point when someone opened a window to let in some of the cool air, you and Syzoth immediately cling to Baraka and Ashrah, respectively.

"Oh wow, Baraka. You're surprisingly hot."

At one point during Johnny Cage's party, you spot a mistletoe hanging at a doorway. Without thinking, you drag Baraka under the plant, pulling out your little book of Earthrealm medicinal herbs.

"Baraka, look! Have you ever seen anything like this??? A Viscum album or a European Mistletoe! Did you know they're parasitic shrubs that grow on other specimens such as pine trees..."

Baraka couldn't fully follow what you were saying, but his soft expression and how the corners of his mouth twitched was more than telling how he was happy to listen. He was leaning against the threshold, arms crossed, as you animatedly told him about a myth about how it was used to poison a supposedly invincible god when Johnny Cage and Kung Lao passed by.

"I mean seriously, where do you fit all that food? ... Ooo look at you two lovebirds."

You stop in your ramble to tilt your head, with Baraka reflecting your confusion with a raised brow.

"We are not lovers, Cage."

"Surrrre you aren't"

Kung Lao responds with playful sarcasm, his dimples visible from his grin. Johnny was more than happy to explain.

"It's one of our realm's traditions that two people kiss when they're both under the mistletoe."

"Y-y-you have to be joking!"

You stutter out with your snakes starting to hiss in a frenzy. Baraka steps away from under the offending shrub while glaring at the Earthrealmers.

When Johnny Cage and Kung Lao insisted they weren't kidding, with Kenshi confirming that it is tradition, it left you and Baraka in a bit of a bind. Mostly as Baraka tried to insist he didn't want to risk giving you Tarkat, and he has no lips, Johnny and Kenshi are both quick to counter his arguments.

On the plus side, you felt as if you could pass out from how overheated your face felt. So to finally get the Earthrealmers off your back, you grabbed Baraka by the shoulders to make him crouch to your height, and use one of your snakes to give him a quick peck on the teeth.

You pulled your cloak's hood over your face, all your snakes curled up close to your head. A stunned Baraka slowly touches his teeth where you technically kissed him.

You more or less avoided Baraka for a while and stuck by the offered catering table to sip your worries away with the homemade drink you brought while idly chatting with Syzoth and Ashrah. However, you were starting to feel rather hot and bubbly on your fourth mug. That couldn't be right; the beverage you made didn't include any booze.

When you started to look over Cage's decorations that included Santa and Reindeer, you started to giggle seemingly out of nowhere much to Syzoth and Ashrah's confusion.

"What do you find so humourous, Y/N?"

"I jussst realized that thisss holiday celebrates an elderly intruder that steals your sweets."

You then burst out in laughter again. Syzoth is quickly able to put two and two together and concludes that you're drunk. The Zatteran is quick to snatch your mug from your hands when you go to take another sip from it. You pouted as your snakes hissed in their displeasure.

"Syzoth, you big bully!"

"Believe me, you had enough."

Syzoth asks Ashrah to watch you and ensure you're hydrated as he informs your host and Baraka about someone possibly spiking all the drinks. However, by the time Syzoth returns with the Tarkatan, you managed to drag Ashrah over to another part of Johnny's mansion to do karaoke on a whim. You sang Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas" in the Zatteran language. Your gaze locks on to Baraka as the song ends, refusing to break your line of sight.

"Oh, I just want you for my own. More than you could ever know. Make my wish come true...."

Not long after, Baraka escorted you back home to the Colony. He had no choice but to let you hold on to him for support since you almost fell down some frosted stairs heading out of Johnny's home. You were swaying on your feet while humming some Christmas songs you heard earlier before breaking the silence.

"I wish I could always be this close to you, Baraka."

"You know better than anyone; you can't risk too much close exposure."

You give him a frown as you wrap your arms around him and squeeze him hard.

"I don't give a damn! I rather risk my health just to hold you close to me, rather than continue to stare at you from afar for the rest of my life!"

"... Booze has clouded your judgment, Y/N. You already know why you can't get too close."

When you both returned to the Colony, neither of you really spoke to one another, but neither did you two physically separate for most of the night. However, it's not like you gave Baraka much choice, as you were determined to prove the former tribune wrong. Besides dressing into something more comfortable, you refused to detach yourself from Baraka as if you were glued on. Meanwhile, he tried to get you to rest off the booze and drink some water. The latter he was more successful with, but not the former. If he was being honest with himself, Baraka was almost tempted to immediately take up on your plead to sleep next to you, keyword, almost. However, you were just as, if not more, determined than Baraka and kept insisting. You only stopped when he offered a compromise of staying in the same room as you but not the same bedding. With that, you settled under your many blankets and quilts before you were out like a light.

The next day, you woke up with a painful hammering into your head and the low light searing your eyes, which forced you to use your second eyelids to look around. All too soon, memories of last night come crashing to the forefront of your mind, which causes you to bury your, suddenly hot-as-fire, face in your pillow.

'WHY DID I DO ANY OF THAT?!?'

After attempting to hide away in your pillows and blankets, you eventually emerge to find your flask, an ornate box with beautiful snake-like designs, some herbal painkillers, and some freshly cooked meat next to your sleeping area. A fond smile makes its way to your face.

After downing your meal and medicine, you open the ornate box, reasoning that it must be from Baraka. Inside the beautiful box is a single flower. A tropical flower that you thought was instinct. Which struck you as odd. Inside was a note in elegant and curvy writing that read

"To the most beautiful flower of them all."

It wasn't in Baraka's handwriting.

[sulumuns-dootah]

26.12. Leviathan - Banquet for two (18+)

    ༺☆༻

⟡ Masterlist ⟡ 

₊˚⊹.* The Yule festival of Hell *.⊹˚₊

‎‧₊˚✧ 18+ Minors Do Not Interact‎ ✧˚₊‧

    ༺☆༻

The halls of the Hades castle are so eerie during the night while everyone is away. Or at least somewhere else in the castle. More precisely in the grand hall where the annual holiday banquet is thrown. Everyone who means something is there. Guests from Hades as well as all the other countries in Hell. Everyone except for the king of Hades, Leviathan himself.

You were excited for the banquet. You've even had a dress made specifically for this occasion. But instead of everyone talking about how gorgeous it is, everyone is discussing the absence of Leviathan. Not to sound dramatic, but it's like you're almost invisible since someone who is not there is more important. As if the guests didn't know how much Leviathan hates being around other people.

With a slight irritation you decide to leave under the guise of bringing Levi some food. If someone's absence is more interesting, then why not be absent too? Leaning to your side to Glasyalabolas, you let him know that you'll go check up on the missing king. He hands you the plate which was meant to be eaten from by Leviathan after putting a portion of the king's favorite fish steaks on it.

So now you're walking through the halls to Leviathan's quarters. Originally you thought about just going to your room and eating the steaks yourself, but you kinda feel bad for the king. The heavy expectations laying on him to be social despite having a severe agoraphobia. No wonder he spends most of the time hiding away in his rooms.

When you finally reach the door to his room, the air suddenly turns cold. The knocks on the massive doors resound in the empty hall. After a short while a voice beckons you to come in.

The room is colder than in the hall and quickly looking for Leviathan, you find out why. One of the windows is open and he's sitting in the windowsill, looking out on the city covered in snow. It's already dark, but the street lamp light bounces off all the white and creates a glow on its own.

“I've brought you some food, your majesty. Your absence is the main topic of discussions.” you say with a hint of bitterness.

“Then why aren't you out there gossiping too?” Leviathan answers without even looking your way.

“I was bored. No matter how important those devils are, they can't uphold an interesting conversation if their life depended on it.” you sigh and set the plate on the windowsill right by Levi's legs. This seem to finally break him from the trance of the glowing white cityscape and he looks at you.

“That's a lovely dress. I want a shirt made out of that fabric.” he says plainly and moves to sit with his back turned to the outside, burning you with his gaze.

“Sure, I'll let the seamstress know.” you say, happy that finally someone noticed.

“Say, you were bored at the celebration, would you maybe keep me company here then? I'm certain I can uphold a decent conversation much more than those fools.” Leviathan jumps off the windowsill, taking the plate with him to the bathroom. You follow him, uncertain what will happen, but as it turns out, he's decided to enjoy his fish steaks in the comfort of his thankfully empty bathtub. You wouldn't want to get your dress wet if he invited you along into the bathtub too.

But it seems just that happens. Leviathan sits down on one end of the marble tub with plenty enough space left for you and the volume of your dress. The many layers of tulle help cushion the hard surface. Levi places the plate down between the two of you and starts eating. The steaks look good, but you know your manners and don't take any unless he offers you one.

None of you speak up until the plate is empty. Leviathan then sets the plate outside of the bathtub and reaches out to feel the material of your chiffon shawl, ”Such a soft material. It must feel even better constricting around my neck. Would you do that for me?”

“Uhm... Excuse me?” you blink, startled that he would request something so intimate from you.

“I believe I made myself clear. But I understand if that's too straight forward of me.” he sounds a bit disappointed. As if shrinking back he rest his back on the bathtub edge and leans his head on the rim with closed eyes, “If that's all, then you can go.”

“N-no, you majesty I would feel honoured.” you're quick to take off the shawl and scrunch it up into something resembling rope. Hopefully it's strong enough.

“Good, then get to it.” Leviathan opens his eyes and lifts his head back up. With slightly shaky hands you wrap the delicate fabric around his swan neck. At first you're unsure if you should really be doing this, but if his majesty wishes to be choked, then who are you to question him.

Remembering the stories from demons who were punished for choking him lightly, you try to choke him with all your strength. Hopefully the fabric can withstand such abuse. It seems that Leviathan's pleased with the amount of air he's depraved of, as evident by his eyes rolled back and growing erection.

“T-tou...ch... me...” he demands in a gasp for oxygen when you allow him to take at least some air in so he doesn't suffocate for real. His demand makes your heart race even more. Is he even thinking straight at this point? Before you have any more questions, he grabs your free hand and places it on his now painful boner. Or so you assume, with how much heat it radiates.

You're quick to free him of his constraints to uncover his throbbing and already leaking dick. It makes your mouth water, but just like the fish steaks before, you weren't invited to taste it. Only to touch.

Almost instinctively your hands starts to glide along his shaft, making him gasp for air more franticly. Playing with his tip, collecting more of his precum has him thrusting into your hand, desperate for more friction.

It feels kinda weird to have this much power over the king of a whole kingdom. Have him fully at your mercy. Normally in this situation you'd be also aching for release, but something about this scenario has you feeling like you've already come multiple times.

Slightly distracted, you don't notice your hand loosen up the tension on the shawl around Levi's neck. “T-tighter... s-so... close..!”

Realising your mistake you tug the fabric more tighter than before and that seems to be enough to push Leviathan over the edge. Spurting ropes of milky cum all over his belly and getting some on your dress. If it were any demon you'd be furious, but since it's His Majesty Leviathan, of course you forgive him.

“Not bad, but I still suppose I should teach you how to properly choke someone as there are some mistakes you've made.”

    ༺☆༻

But wait, this demon also has a gift for you!

"I suppose I should gift you with a noose, just like all of my other subordinates. Yet I feel like a necklace would suit your neck much more. "

[ducktoonsfanart]

Donald and Daisy Duck with their kids - Scrooge McDuck and Magica De Spell with Webby and Minima - Quack Pack Week - Valentine's Day and Holidays (Quack Pack AU) - Quack Pack and Duckverse

I wish everyone a happy Valentine's Day! And sorry for the delay! For this thread, I drew two drawings (admittedly the second drawing was drawn two years ago, but I'm posting it now) and it's related to one of my favorite couples in the Duckverse and I apologize if it bothers anyone.

The first drawing I drew shows Donald giving his love Daisy Duck a candy box with chocolate hearts as well as three purple tulips, and Daisy is all happy with that, although she prefers it when Donald treats her nicely and the material gifts aren't that important, but the real feelings you feel for someone. And so in this case, although Donald prefers to give with attention as a sign of love. And there are their children, Donald's nephews Huey, Dewey and Louie, as well as Daisy's nieces April, May and June as teenagers in my version supporting their uncle and aunt. And behind them is a background with mountains and fir trees, as well as snow that has persisted, because it is still winter.

Another drawing that is more of an old drawing is Scrooge McDuck in a Scottish kilt with Magica de Spell, an old rival but new partner. Yes, I know it bothers some people, although Scrooge and Magica, as frenemies, have a lot in common, and maybe they have a secret love. However, in my Quack Pack AU, after a long time of rivalry, Scrooge reconciled with Magica and somehow they have a romantic relationship. Scrooge won't let Magica touch his first coin though, and this is just my version of what Scrooge and Magica would look like in the Quack Pack. In addition to them, there is Webby, Scrooge's adopted niece as well as Magica's niece Minima as a teenager who is no longer the good old girl she used to be, but more mean, and I drew it to suit her. Despite their differences, they would still work together and be best friends (inspired by the Ducktales comic "Dime After Dime" from 1991). And then there's Ratface, Magica's pet crow. Yes, I drew that drawing two years ago. And this is just my alternative Quack Pack version, because in addition to Magica, Scrooge also has Goldie and Brigitta, as well as other ladies who are Scrooge's loves, although Scrooge's true love is money. Again, everyone is entitled to their love partners. Still, I kinda like Scrooge and Magica together in the Quack Pack for the hilarious comedy, but that's just my opinion.

I hope you like these drawings and these ideas and these love couples and feel free to like and reblog this, just don't use the same versions of me without mentioning me and without tagging my name. Thank you. By the way, this is addressed, @quackpackweek. And once again, happy Valentine's Day!

[24-7-testing]

URGENT! ARTWORK WANTED!

PHSI has an artist for 2023, but they aren't sure they'll be able to finish the artwork in time. I know this is short notice, but are there any Portal artists out there who want to create artwork to be featured on the Holiday Cards?

If this year's artist pulls through, your artwork will be saved and featured on the Holiday Cards in 2024! If they don't pull through, your artwork will go out on this year's Holiday Cards. There is no monetary compensation for helping with PHSI, just the knowledge that your artwork will be mailed/emailed all across the world (and a card of your own too)!

Here's what artwork PHSI needs:

Option 1: With Characters

Must contain the following characters: Chell, GLaDOS, Wheatley

May also include other characters from the games.

Characters must be drawn as they appear in the videogames. No humanizations, gender swaps, animal versions, etc.

Scene prompt: A snapshot from the company holiday party.

Option 2: Without Characters

A background, scene, or location somewhere inside Aperture that gives cozy Winter vibes.

Possible elements of the scene include: views of snow at night, warm lighting, fireplace, hot chocolate, and other cozy winter things.

Requirements for Both Options:

Must be Holiday/Religion neutral (based on Wintertime in general).

Must be high resolution.

Must be 7.25 x 5.25 inches, landscape/horizontal format.

Must be completed no later than November 24th 2023.

I will be circulating this post daily for the next week, or until suitable artwork is found. Please DM me if you are interested in helping, and don't be afraid to submit your artwork! If I get more than one backup artwork, they will be saved and featured in future PHSI events.

If you're not artistically talented, please reblog this post to boost it instead! Thank you everyone for your help!

- 24-7-testing

[theearlgreymage]

Okay, but, Snow for Christmas was a fucking TREAT!

Can we please discuss how precious it was? And how I need MORE after reading it.

I'm dropping spoilers below because I've reread this 5 times while at work today and need to let my emotions out.

Baz and Simon having regular lunches with Fiona? Please give me those dialougues. Gimme a fucking screen play of nothing but their lunches

Simon regularly practicing his sword skills AND distracting Baz? You cannot convince me this isn't a flirting tactic doe Simon. Let me read about Simon seducing Baz via a sword 😏

ALWAYS KISSING GOODBYE? MY HEART CANNOT.

Okay, but I also want more family drama from the Grimms and Pitches. Uncle Cyril? Tell me what this man has done to find himself on the wrong side of Malcom Grimm and Simon Snow. Spill that tea. (I will always map Baz's entire family tree if you let me.)

The sofa is PINK!! Need I say more?

Wing Flap Shirts!! I'm so glad our dragon baby finally has clothes he can wear without needing magic. NOW. Which one of you lovelies is drawing this?

"He reaches up and carefully starts to loosen my tie. He's become very skilled at this over the last few months." 😏😏😏

Baz internally swooning at EVERY thought of Simon being his boyfriend.

Simon being a GOOD boyfriend and immediately being up for another dinner with Baz's family. For Baz. Because he's so GOOD

Baz referring to Lady Salisbury as Simon's grandmother? ADORABLE. Lady Salisbury being cool with Simon and Baz bring "as gay we want. We can be extra gay, as a treat." YES. GIVE THESE BOYS A KIND FAMILY FIGURE WHO ACCEPTS THEM WITH NOTHING BUT LOVE. Please give me more visits with the Salisbury family. I need the wholesomeness.

WHERE CAN I READ ABOUT FIONA AND NICOS WEDDING!?!?!?

"We could be married with children --" "Could we?" PLEASE GIVE THEM A FAMILY

Can I get more fanart of Baz with his siblings. Because they are precious little things. And I need more of Petra and Sophie climbing Baz like he's their personal jungle gym. I need more pre-teen Mordelia spending wholesome time with her brother. I need to see Swithin climbing this fucking Tibetan mastiff. Thank you very much.

Can we please give Rainbow Rowell a massive thanks for giving us a more detailed description of Malcom Grimm finally??

I will foot the entire fucking production crew to have that dinner recreated for the screen. I would sell my soul to a Demon like Shepard if it means I can have a quality holiday special of that dinner. Fucking. Hell. Baz IMMEDIATELY grabbing Simon to ground him. Simon SUPPORTING HIS MAN and holding his hand. SIMON BELIEVING IN BAZ THAT HE'S GOT THIS DINNER IN THE BAG AND JUST SERVING BAZ FOOD. Malcom and Daphne crying and pouring drinks over Baz finally finally finally getting to eat dinner with him. Sophie getting gravy in her hair.

And can we also discuss the fact that this scene proves that these little girls know their big brother is a vampire? And they still adore him? They still climb all over him and practically beg for his attention? That these girls just want to spend time with their brother and aren't afraid in the slightest of him?

FANG BACKSTORY BREAKING MY FUCKING HEART. Baby Baz fucking hiding in the barn. Terrified. And Fiona just fucking supporting her nephew. I 100% cried during this scene.

Edit Add cause I somehow forgot to mention : Simon's fucking obsession with Baz's fangs. Like. Honey. No, his family does not want to watch him drain a deer. That's just you.

"I think I got drunk with Baz's dad at dinner." Had me rolling.

Backtracking. WE HAVE CAREER OPTIONS FOR SIMON. And so help me. I would refuse to talk to this man too if he tried to join the RAF or police force. Like. He really needs to address this hero-savior complex with his fucking therapist. For fucks sake. Stop trying to save people Simon. Just get your fucking fork lift license and RELAX.

Really. Die Hard? Are we shocked?

THE. FOREHEAD. KISS.

End of discussion. (But really. Discuss. Because I am feral right now. And I cannot focus on writing lesson plans in this state.)

[loadedberetta]

Merry Little Christmas

college Kate Laswell x fReader // fem no body desc // MDNI

cw none? it's pure fluff (maybe a dash of anxiety but it's fine I promise)

summary: Kate convinces you to spend your first Christmas together.

1k words // rating: M (language) // MDNI // Part 2 // Part 3

"Do you want to spend the holidays with me and my family?" Kate asked.

At that point, you'd been barely dating a month or so officially. The two of you met that September when you hurriedly threw your bag down next to hers in the back of the auditorium when the professor gave you the look when you arrived at the first class late. After class on the third week, she asked you out, and you'd barely spent a day alone since then.

It was the end of December, a few days before winter break when she asked this, while the two of you were walking to the campus café after the shared class, holding hands. The whole campus was covered in a thin layer of the first snow of the season, with warm string lights, and a soft dusk setting a romantic mood.

"I'm pretty sure they expect me to be home, you know. My grandparents have been making reservations for my days home since fall…" You chuckled at how ridiculous that sounded out loud, yet was such a common occurrence each holiday season.

And the entire holiday cooking fell into your hands since you were capable of handling yourself in the kitchen. Helping out everywhere from fixing the Christmas lights to helping your little cousins stick together gingerbread houses (then washing them out of the thick cover of icing they cover themselves in each year without fail), and so on… a break did sound nice, but; "I already agreed to help my dad fix something around the house, and my mom-"

Kate stopped on the paved road, with the closeby lights of the café illuminating her profile, enhancing her warm, but sly smile. She took her whole hand in hers and caressed it. A few snowflakes dance around in the air around you.

"I asked if you wanted to spend Christmas with me and my family, baby. Not obligations you had, or stuff you didn't want to say no to." She sounded assertive, yet there was no pressure in her voice. And as always, she was right. She read you like a book, and you liked that, usually, even if it hurt to admit.

"Aren't we a new couple?" You asked in a timid voice that your lurking anxiety forced upon your vocal cords and looked into her eyes, which swirled with a festive sparkle from the moody string lights around you.

"Aren't you just looking for excuses?" She chuckled and leaned in to press a small, featherlight kiss to your cold cheek. "Come on, let's sit down inside."

She led you inside, and after grabbing you and herself some hot chocolate, she sat down with a small sigh.

"Your family…" You clutched the paper cup in your hands, the warmth quickly heating up your digits. Kate did the same, while her eyes examined your worried features, hanging on your words. "…they'd like me there?"

"Yeah." She smiled small, and little wrinkles appeared in the corner of her eyes. She was older than you, even if only by a few years; she looked mature for her age. Maybe that was what caught your eye in the first place. The stability she exuded, the sure answers she gave the professor, the way she carried herself when you walked beside her; it was confident and watchful.

"And what do I say at home?" Your anxiety spoke, gnawing in the back of your throat, searing your words with an unwanted edge.

"That you're staying with me for the holidays. Why?" She took a sip of her steaming hot chocolate and licked her lips as she put the cup down. God, she could say anything with those lips and you'd believe her.

"I just…" You gathered yourself and looked her in the eyes again. "I never spent a Christmas away from home. I don't know…"

"Do you want to?" She offered a hand, extending it to you on the small table, on which you leaned, posture slightly stiff. You took her hand in a moment, fingers intertwining with hers.

"I'd like to…" Your tone was unsure, torn between your own wants and your family's. "but…"

"Look, baby, if you're saying no because of them, I'm sorry, but I can't accept that. Give me a good reason and I won't ask. Because I know that's your reason. This excuse is not you, it's them. And I don't want you to feel obligated--"

"But it's family, Kate!" Your brows knitted with worry, having scared yourself with your own response when the anxiety won over again, causing the small outburst.

"Mine is too, babe. They want to see you, hell, I want to see you." Kate's eyes pleaded to you, and she squeezed your hand a little.

"Spend time with you, have you curl up by the fireplace while you talk about… knitting or some shit with my mom…" She smiled into the sentence, the smile you knew you couldn't resist.

"Kate!" You squeezed her hand back at the cussword, hitting a playful tone as her infectious smile carried on to your face.

"What?" She leaned back in her chair, still smiling, not letting go of your hand.

"Nothing…" You quieted down a little and observed the melting whipped cream disappear into the hot chocolate in your cup. "I'm just not used to being pampered at Christmastime. I'm the one cooking, cleaning, I-"

"I don't want you to have to be that. I want you to rest this Christmas, and I want you by my side. I want to see you relax and unwind, you know, what every Christmas should be about." She explained with a mellow voice, that made you hot and thinking of the possibilities she could provide for you.

For a moment, you didn't find anything that'd have expressed your feelings. Instead, you settled for a shy "alright", already thinking of a proper thank you for Kate later that night for offering you her trust and opening her home to you, despite your anxieties and empty worries.

a/n: happy holidays y'all! this was not self-indulgent

[life-in-the-monster-haus]

Nightmare Nightmore Highlights.

I'm not gonna recap or analyze the episode too much I just wanna share a few of my favorite things! Not really any spoilers, if you've already seen the leaks of Abbey and her mom floating around then you're all caught up.

Draculaura is throwing a party for the holiday of Nightmore, but I couldn't possibly care less. I'm here for Abbey!

Heath has the same reaction to seeing Abbey for the first time as a lot of us did. in Awe of her beauty. same dude, same.

She towers over everyone! even the boys! I am in love!

Draculaura is like a smurf compared to tall powerful Abbey.

Abbey's eyes aren't purple anymore, they are brown! and so pretty! breaks up the abundance of purple in her hair and outfit I am super into it!

Abbey's hair blend is the colors of the Bi flag and I have no choice but to stan.

Mama Bominable threatening to bring forth a cold harsh merciless winter upon Bloodgoods head if she doesn't produce Abbey is such a mood. I love me a good mama bear.

WHERE IS NIGHTMARE!? why is this messenger dragon hanging out in Bloodgood's office but her horse isn't!? The episode even has nightmare in the title but I see no Nightmare the horse. I don't like it. A headless horse person without their horse is just a zombie... why are you booing me? I'm right!

Draculaura already has her license in this gen? I'm here for it! Also Clawd chose to sit next to her. Also Clawd said "nailed it like a coffin" which was only ever said in G1 by Clawdeen and that makes me happy.

This is the second or third episode where Lagoona inexplicably has flat teeth, the music video for her doll did this too. I'm not exactly a professional animator but I've studied it enough to know that rendering characters off model is a fire-able offense. Fix it Nickelodeon.

Heath encouraging Abbey to use her ice powers telling her she is strong, charismatic and beautiful. ahhhh! my heart!... I've mentioned on here I'm not much of a shipper per-se. But that was a lie, Habbey was one of my OG ships and it brings me such joy to see them again! I needed this since the only Heath we got during G2 was this:

*Long suffering G2 sigh*

Yeti's in this universe seem to basically be water benders and I am okay with that! Mama Bominable is fuckin pissed! LOL Bye Bloodgood it's been nice knowing you!

Damn, Abbey's dad didn't contribute any genetics to that her at all. Mama Bominables genes were like "this is MY child!" I do love that she has horns and a more pronounced underbite, perhaps Abbey will get these traits as she grows? Or maybe her buns are hiding her horns? IDK but it's fun to imagine! I wonder where they got the idea to give their yeti Horns... HMMMMMMM

it's a mystery, we'll never know.

This isn't even a highlight I'm just taking pictures of Mama Bominabe at this point, I love a strong woman willing to murder the school principle for her daughters safety.

SHE CALLED ABBEY SNOW ANGEL AHHHHHH- I'm sorry I just had to get that out.

The boy is in love! .... And he actually says something really profound. I'm so impressed G3 is giving Heath some depth and not just making him a one note idiot... Don't get me wrong, I liked one note idiot Heath but there was more to him than that.

Heath trying to kiss Abbey on the first day of meeting her is absolutely a G1 call back.

in her intro episode he kissed her hand and his lips froze off.

I love everything about this episode! I love that Abbey is Nepali! it's way more accurate to her Monster type and before some nerd tries to get in the replies and go "Actually Russia occupied Nepal at one point" that's true, they did BUT! the myth of the Yeti originated in 1937, Russia didn't occupy the Himalayas until the 1960's.

This episode is my new favorite! I heard a rumor that we won't get any new Monster High episodes until after the new year, but if they are anything like this? they will be worth the wait!

[strangedreamings]

July is almost here and along with it, Christmas in July 2023!

This year's prompts are more detailed than previous years'. This event is open to every fandom, ship, and rating.

Have fun!

Advent calendar. Instead of chocolate, Person A is sent an Advent Calendar full of charming confessions, ending with "I love you" on December 24th.

It's better to give than to receive. Person A draws their crush Person B's name for Secret Santa. They're so concerned with giving Person B the perfect present that they don't realize their Secret Santa has done the same.

Binge. Single Person A spends a whole day watching Hallmark Christmas movies but instead of relaxing, they remind them that they are painfully single. What happens when Person B drops in out of the blue?

Make a wish. Person A does everything in their power to make Person B's dearest wish come true.

Naughty or nice? Being nice will get Person A in Person B's good graces, but being naughty is so much more fun.

Happy Holidays. Being forever single never bothered Person A before, but this year not having anyone to bring home for Thanksgiving rankles. Can they find true love before New Year's Eve?

Do you want to build a snowman? Person A and Person B would build snowmen together when they were kids. After they grew up, Person A moved away from their hometown for work. When they come back years later for the holidays, they're awakened one night by a snowball hitting their childhood bedroom window.

First snowfall of the season. Everyone's forgotten how to drive in the snow, including the guy who rear-ended Person A. Thankfully, Person B knows how to calm them down and will give them a lift.

Home for the holidays. Person A thought they'd be alone for the holidays but Person B (their secret crush) invites A to spend the holidays with them and their family.

Comfort and joy. It is Person A's first Christmas since a major loss and Person B does everything they can to make it a good one.

Make it sparkle. "You wrapped presents today." "How can you tell?" "The table is covered in glitter." "Ooops." "Did you wrap anything for me?"

Nobody loves you like family. Person A has been home for the holidays for all of one day but their family is already getting on their nerves. Person B offers them a chance to escape.

The most wonderful time of the year. Grinchy Person A hates Christmas. Can Christmas-loving Person B change their mind before Christmas Eve or are they a lost cause?

It's become a tradition. Perpetually single Person A and their equally single best friend Person B escape their respective families every Christmas Eve and spend time together. What happens when Person A brings someone home to meet their family?

Silent night. Person A has laryngitis at Christmas, it's up to Person B to take care of them. Thankfully, they know Person A so well that words aren't necessary.

White Elephant. Person A gets something at a White Elephant party that they neither want nor need, but they know Person B would love it.

Ghost of Christmas Past. Person A regrets breaking up with Person B years ago and is determined to win them back.

Office romance. Person A asks their SO Person B to host their office's holiday party but Person B would rather have a root canal without anesthetic.

Under the mistletoe. Person A is the last person Person B would want to kiss, so why does everyone try to get them under the mistletoe?

Peace on earth. Person A steps outside to get a breather from the boisterous gathering only to run into Person B doing the same thing.

Joy to the world. Person A goes to Person B to tell them some very good news.

Taste this. Person A is making their first big family Christmas dinner by themselves. Their SO Person B offers encouragement but is hopeless in the kitchen so they're the designated taste tester.

Blue Christmas. "Who breaks up with someone December 23rd?"

Do you hear what I hear? Person A is awakened to the sound of caroling outside their window, led by Person B.

It's a Christmas miracle. The least likely thing to happen, happens and at Christmas, no less.

A candle in the window. It's a cold December night and Person A is lost driving around an unfamiliar neighborhood. A candle in the window of a house convinces them to stop and ask for directions. The homeowner is their acquaintance Person B.

Winter Wonderland. Person A is snowed in with their crush Person B.

Many happy returns. Person A runs into Person B in line to exchange unwanted gifts.

Become one with the couch. Laid-back Person A convinces perpetual-motion machine Person B to just chill with them a couple of days after Christmas.

Milk and cookies. Single Person A leaves cookies for Santa as a joke. Someone ate them overnight and left a present under the tree. Could it be … their best friend Person B?

Out with the old, in with the new. Person A breaks up with their less-than-worthy SO on New Year's Eve. Does a kiss at midnight from Person B foretell a better year ahead?

[freckle-face-ace]

Portgas D Ace X Trafalgar Law

2

Law sat out back on a stack of overturned milk crates with a sigh. Opening had been particularly rough that morning, after losing track of time and studying all night. There wasn't much time between rushes, soon the shop would be filling up with people on their lunch breaks, so this would be his only chance for a moment alone for a few hours. Tattooed fingers slipped into the pocket of his navy peacoat retrieving a fresh cigarette without much thought. After lighting the smoke he closed his eyes taking a slow drag, waiting for his nicotine buzz to settle in.

Winter had finally arrived bringing with it the season's first snow. While others wrestled with seasonal depression from being cooped up and all of the cold dreary weather, Law felt surprisingly content. He enjoyed the way the frosty air numbed his nose and fingers. He found days like this were his most productive.

"Shouldn't you know better than to smoke?" that smooth playful timbre launched Law's stomach into the ground.

The quick intake of air and smoke through his startled gasp made him cough and sputter. He hadn't heard that voice in weeks. Not since the night he attended the Newgate's party. Not since they almost…

"I didn't mean to scare you!" Ace called as Law sat forward smashing the smoke under his boot and trying to catch his breath.

A flash of heat swept up Law's neck and face, "Could have fooled me."

"I'm sorry," the younger chuckled, taking a seat on the crate next to him,"are you alright?"

"Except for my pride, yes." Law kept his eyes forward, still attempting to settle himself, "I didn't know you were back in town."

Ace rubbed his nape, "Yep, home for the holidays, and my birthday. Luffy said you'd be out here so I thought I'd say hello."

Finally Law gathered the courage to turn his gaze to his friend's brother, "Hello. How's the tour?"

Ace smiled lopsidedly, "It's going well, but it's nice to be home."

Law's gaze lingered on the freckled male before standing, "Welcome home then Ace-ya. We should head back in before we freeze."

Quietly Ace followed Law inside through the back door of the cafe. They skirted passed back stocked supplies and storage.

"Am I allowed to be back here?" Ace asked glancing around.

Law nodded, leading him through the small kitchen up to the service counter, "I'm the manager, you can be back here if I allow it."

"What an honor."

Law held up the portion of the bar that led to the store front so that Ace could pass under.

"Right? I'm so nice." he smirked.

Ace shivered appreciating this new expression and playful cockiness.

"And very humble."

He wasn't prepared for the low chuckle that rumbled through the soon to be doctor. His admiration was interrupted as his little brother barged into the room bringing back the soft frown that seemed to be Law's default setting.

"It's time to get ready for the next rush."

Just like before Ace took a seat at the bar while Law worked diligently on his coffee without actually having him order. He noticed the darker than usual circles under his half lidded stormy eyes. There's no way this man had been sleeping.

Why did that bother him?

"Ace!" An energetic voice called as the patron at the front of the line slapped the middle of his back harder than intended.

Law glanced over as Ace let out a soft grunt from the impact. A tall person with long tri-colored hair tied up in a high ponytail practically vibrated with excitement while their sunset colored eyes filled with adoration. Law continued to observe with a neutral expression after placing Ace's coffee in front of him.

"Hey, Yamato," the freckled male chuckled after recovering from having the wind smacked out of him, "it's been a minute."

"It has! I missed you the last time you were in town!"

"I wasn't here long and I heard your dad had dragged you along on a hunting trip." Ace pulled his cup closer.

"I've kinda started to enjoy the trips. They aren't so bad. Oh excuse me," Yamato called getting Law's attention, fiddling with the strings of their hoodie, "can I get a white chocolate cocoa please?"

Law nodded and got to work while Ace let out a teasing laugh.

"You're just like Luffy. An adult that orders like a kid."

"It's rude to tease your elders." they chided swatting his shoulder.

Law cleared his throat gently interrupting their banter to deliver the drink order and collect payment.

Ace and Yamato continued to chat and laugh while Law worked nearby. Initially he'd tried to gauge their conversation. Yamato was certainly attractive, and their personality seemed to vibe well with Ace's. But very quickly he could see that they were just old friends having a catch-up. He did envy how they could make Ace laugh so candidly.

It wasn't that Law wasn't funny - his sense of humor just wasn't for everyone. Though he had made his freckled counterpart laugh at his snarkiness - he just didn't realize it was a sound that he would miss.

After the crowd died down Law gave Luffy a short to-do list and returned to the bar to clean and restock. Ace had been looking at his phone so Law decided to make him a new drink. When he finished and turned to slide it across the bar he found Ace already watching him. Those lazy ruby eyes sent a shiver down the aspiring doctor's spine.

"You hum when you work, like you're so lost in the zone." his warm fingers brushed over Law's as he accepted the new beverage.

"I hadn't really noticed." his neck and ears felt hot.

Ace smirked watching Law flush so adorably over his observation giving him the courage to continue, "It's cute," he chuckled, shifting forward on the bar stool, "it makes me wonder if you do it during practicals at school."

Suddenly Law felt like a gazelle caught in a lion's sight, "I couldn't really say."

He needed to move and busy himself so it would stop being so hot. Turning to the small sink he flipped on the faucet and got to work.

"Thanks for the drink. I can't believe you remember my order." Ace smiled seeing Law's ears go pink.

"You like all that sweet crap." Law commented with a slightly playful tone.

"You don't like sweet stuff?" Ace tapped the lid of his to-go cup.

Law turned a bit to glance at Ace briefly and scoff, "Not in my coffee."

Ace shivered at his timbre, "Let me guess, you prefer either a cup of black coffee with no more than two sugars or a plain shot of espresso."

"Why mess with perfection?" Law chuckled before turning completely back to Ace,"You could work here Ace-ya."

"I'm afraid I'd be too distracted." he replied coquettishly.

Law did his best to remain neutral but this last implication managed to scramble his brain.

"So," Ace spoke up as tension began to roll off of him,"I did stop by for a reason."

"Oh? Not just to scare the crap out of me in the alley?" Law attempted to ease the edginess.

The younger male took a deep breath, seeming to find some resolve. Law's stomach dropped a bit, things suddenly felt serious and he wasn't sure what to expect.

"I uh, wanted to see if you wanted to do something while I'm in town?" his eyes flickered away from Law waiting for his reply.

Law was sure he was misunderstanding, "H-having another party?"

Ace met his gaze again with a small smile curving his lips, "No, just you and I."

Law's eyes widened a bit, "Like…a -"

"A date!" Luffy interrupted rounding the corner, "You're so slow sometimes Torao."