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tojikai · 2 years

Text

Permanent Mark IX: Mistakes

Pairing: Gojo x Reader

Genre: Angst

Warnings: pregnancy, mentions of abortion, insecurities, mentions of cheating

Series Masterlist

“Sometimes, our mistakes come back to haunt us...”

“You don’t plan on working for your parent’s company?” Satoru asked you as you played with his hair. He’s laying on his stomach with his head on your chest, and his fingers caressing your thighs. It was raining outside and the sky looked so dark yet the brightness in his eyes as they bore into yours lit up every corner of your bedroom. It’s been 6 months since you started dating officially and the other day, your parents came over, accidentally meeting him for the first time.

They got a bit upset that you didn’t even tell them that you were in a serious relationship, especially your Mom who almost did an in-depth, complete background check on Satoru. You remember how she once told you that if you were going to get into a relationship, especially if it’s a serious one, make sure that your partner will not cause any shame or taint your name and the company. She can’t have you marrying ‘just anyone.’

You hated how they always tell you what they want you to do yet never took the time to actually educate and look after you. You understand that they have been letting you off the hook for a long time now, allowing you to sit and look pretty even after you graduated college but you see it as them putting everything first before you. Your plan was to at least start a family of your own, and take care of your kid before you dedicate yourself to building the company because you know that once your mom gets her grip on you, it won’t be easy to get away from her.

“No. Not now.” You traced the bridge of his nose, making his eyes flutter shut. You admired him; even with the turmoil inside your mind, you always made space to marvel at his beauty. “I thought she was going to ask me to draw my family tree.” Satoru laughed, kissing the valley of your breasts, coaxing you to join him. It’s still fun now because it hasn’t happened yet but knowing how far your mom can go, it’s not a laughing matter at all. Your mother is not a bad person, just a…bad parent. She thinks of you as a pawn for her company, making sure that you’re suited for it when the time comes.

That’s quite contrary to how your Dad treats you. He’s responsible for the freedom that you’re having, and even if he’s not always with you, he never forgets to call you or check on you. You understand that what your mom is doing is because of all the things she wants to reach and prove to everyone. You just happened to be included in the materials that she needed to accomplish them, unfortunately. And you didn’t realize that it will comprise your personal and private life even as you grow older and become your own person.

“There’s nothing you can do. Abort it. Or you won’t get a single penny from us. I’ll throw you down with the regulars.” Your mother’s threats are not empty ones and you are sure of it. Even your dad turned to look at her, eyebrows furrowed at her harshness. Not once has this been mentioned, no matter how badly you acted and no matter what you did.

“That’s too much. Your daughter’s already here and working. What more will you ask of her?” Your father finally spoke, obviously not agreeing with your Mom’s decision. Despite your mother’s attitude, they never fought much even when you were little. You used to think that maybe they’re just too busy with this company to even argue, but looking at it now, you can’t help but think that maybe it’s because your father always chose not to reason with her. Not getting anything from your Mom is not a problem, you have your dad. And it’s not like you couldn’t do anything either. Now that you have a real responsibility, you know you’d do your best to adjust. You can’t forever be like this, anyway.

“It’s alright. I’ll take care of them. Y/N and the baby.” Satoru swallowed thickly, thinking of a way to get you out of the situation without being disrespectful, even as your mom threw him a sharp look. “You literally dumped my daughter and now you’re telling me that you could take care of her? Boy, I don’t trust you one bit.” Your mother snarled, looking Satoru down. You felt him slightly flinch, floored by your mother’s brutal honesty. You remembered how you told them that Satoru broke up with you, but never mentioned that he cheated on you. You could only imagine how harsher your mother would be if she knew.

Satoru took a deep breath, obviously taken aback by your mother’s words. He could see how different you are from her. You can be stubborn at times but you never look at people in such a way that could make them question their worth. He glanced down for a second before standing straighter, squeezing your hand but before he could answer your mom, you decided that it wouldn’t lead the argument to a better path. The only way to settle this down is to let your mother know that you’re firm with your decision.

“I won’t do it, Mom. I’ll work with the regular employees if you want me to. But this is my kid, I decide what I will do with it.” Your voice was shaking but even so, you did your best to stand up to your mother who could only look at you with annoyance. For some reason, you cannot let go of the growing life inside you. Shoko already told you that you’d have to be smart with your decisions, especially when it involves the baby. She reminded you of the situation and you understand how heavy it is but it’s not enough to shut down the warmth of happiness that fills your chest every time you think about how it could change your life.

Maybe after all the wrong things that you’ve done, you could finally do something right.

“Do you even know what you’re getting yourself into, Y/N?” Your mom sounded desperate as she sighed, shoulder slouching as her brows pulled up and bumped together. She looked more worried now than mad, like how she always gets when you get yourself into trouble. But this time, this is not mere trouble; it’s connected to you and your whole being. You know that you have another option and you're not overlooking that but right now, your choice is to keep it.

"I'm sorry, Mom." You took a deep breath as you blinked three times in a row, preparing yourself for whatever consequence it is that you’d have to face for being insolent after all the years of freedom that they have given you. You can see your mother shake her head as you look down at your feet. Satoru's body relaxed for a short while before he changed his stance, ready to leave.

"Are you two together again?" Your father asked, glancing at Satoru for a second before looking back at you. Your father’s not showing any signs of hostility towards Satoru and you know that it’s only because he has no idea why you broke up. You shook your head before your ex could answer and you could almost hear him sigh. You know that he's still hoping even if he wasn't telling you. But you're done with all of this. You cannot have yourself overthinking about the sturdiness of the relationship when it's built up on its own ashes after it burnt down to the ground.

"No. But he wants to be present—" Before you could finish, your mother's already cutting you off, her anger skyrocketing once again as she hears you make excuses for the man who carelessly stomped on your heart. "Then where will it lead you? You'd only end up falling back in the palm of his hand even if you don't want it. You know better than to settle for someone who'd throw you away so easily." Satoru winced, remembering how your mother refused to talk to him properly at the hospital if not for the sake of her image.

"You don’t understand, Mom." You exhaled, not caring if your voice broke. This situation is too much for you. The only preparation you made was about the baby. You didn't think they’d interrogate you about your relationship with Satoru too and you blame yourself for it. You should’ve known that they’d ask about the father if you tell them that you’re keeping it. You wouldn’t admit it to yourself that you purposely avoided thinking about what’s going to be the agreement between you and Satoru. You don’t want that kind of topic because it only reminds you that your child might never have a whole family and it’s breaking you.

“Just know that I’m not taking any of my words back.” Your mother held her head high despite the prominent frustration on her face. You can see your father reaching over to rub her back but she quickly turned to make an exit. You didn’t expect your mother to back down quickly, but you thought that maybe she was thinking about your state too. Your father shook his head, deep in thought as you felt Satoru’s hold on your hand loosen up a bit as he turned to you to scan your face.

“Are you alright?” He asked you, not letting go of your hand before he looked over to your father when he heard you hum. He was probably thinking of how to excuse the two of you to leave. It was eerily quiet and you could only watch your shadows on the tiled floor as you replayed the previous scene in your head. You unconsciously reached to pat your stomach, wondering if it could also feel the quick beats of your heart.

“If you need anything you can call, Y/N. Don’t put yourself in a situation where you’d have to beg—” Your father was interrupted by Satoru as he stepped forward, “It’s okay. I…I won’t make her do something like that. I’m just…just owning up to my mistakes.” Your father probably thought that you had to ask Satoru to stay with you for the sake of your child. You understand if he thought that it was the case. After all, what they know is that Satoru was the one who left. Knowing how they view you, your parents most likely assumed that it was you who made a problem.

“Why did you leave my daughter?” Your eyes widened when you heard how your father asked Satoru so directly. In an instant you were holding his arm, pulling him back as you tried to put your thoughts together to make an excuse for what happened. “We fell out of love.” You quickly answered, making Satoru look at you with a puzzled look. You cannot let your parents know. Not when you’re having a kid with him. You know that the baby is just as important to you as it is to Satoru and you could only think of how your parents would probably try to keep it away from him if they found out.

No matter how you think of it. You don’t think it will be fair to him if they step over his rights of being a father to his own child.

“I…I feel sick. C-can we go now?” You added quickly, squeezing Satoru’s arm tightly but not letting your father notice it. You hate to lie to him but this is for the better. It’d only cause more chaos if they found out. Your biggest fear is not raising your child with separated parents but it is raising your child without even knowing who his or her father is. “Do we need to go to the doctor?” Satoru held you by your arms, letting you lean on him, unaware of what you were trying to do. You simply shook your head and looked at your father who was already on his feet, pulling out his phone from his pocket.

“Sit here, I’ll call a doctor.” You almost cursed when he spoke the idea but instead, you shook your head, insistent on just leaving before everything gets worse, “No. Maybe I just need to rest. Can we just go home?” Your eyes flicked between your father and Satoru. You felt bad that you were worrying them but what else could you do?

”Alright, uhm…I’m sorry for what happened.” Satoru spoke to your father, not really knowing what to say after the situation with your mom. You could see your father shaking his head at him, “Just make sure she’s safe. Y/N, call me. You know your mother’s just like that but she loves you.” He reminded you, walking closer to give you a hug. You only nodded your head, feeling your father rub your back to comfort you. “I’ll talk to her. Don’t worry.” You pulled away with a hum, stepping away to let Satoru once again support your body.

It felt like all the tension escaped your body the moment you heard Satoru bid goodbye to your father. You could feel your muscles loosening as you quietly sighed in relief, letting your ex walk you out of your Mom’s office. You heard your fingers crack as you clenched your fists when you stepped into the elevator. It was the same elevator you and Rie talked in and you couldn’t help but flinch at the memory.

“How are you feeling? Your father was right, we should see a doctor.” Satoru tucked a strand of hair behind your ear as you pressed your lips together. You suddenly thought of what it’d be like if you were to run into Rie here. If you get stuck in the same room as them, you'd claw your way out of the walls just to run. It’s almost as if your heart was reminding you that he’d never choose you over her.

He’d only choose you if she wasn’t one of the choices. Your lips twitched downwards as you looked away, trying to ignore the pang in your chest.

"What are you thinking about?" He spoke in a soft voice beside you, watching your face in an attempt to read whatever is bugging you. "Nothing important." You took a deep breath, blinking fast as you shook your head. Out of all the times that you've been in this elevator, this is the slowest ride so far. Satoru took a step closer to you and you can tell that he just wants to get out of the building as well by the way he keeps shifting his weight on his two feet. Halfway down, someone got in and you had to force a smile and a greeting as countless thoughts run inside your mind.

The moment the elevator door opened to the lobby, Satoru was already guiding you out. His hand was resting on the small of your back as you tried to look calm even with the quick big strides that you were making. It felt like the building was slowly closing in on you. Like it's starting to get smaller and narrower the longer you stay inside it. You don't know if anyone heard what happened inside your mother's office but you thought that it's best if you avoided everyone's eyes.

You didn't know that among those eyes that are watching you walk down that building with the father of your child are the eyes of a woman whose heart you also ruined. Rie watched from afar as you and Satoru strode past the glass doors before making a turn to where his car was parked, wondering how you are walking so casually with him as if the guy didn't betray your trust and crush your soul.

"That's the boss's daughter. You know her?" The woman dropped the stack of paper in front of her as she shook her head, not wanting to associate herself with Y/N anymore. But Satoru, he still got her heart thumping. Even after he spilled everything to Rie about why he wanted to leave her, she still couldn’t help but hope that maybe he’d come back. Maybe he’s just guilty, maybe he just felt bad for what he did to you.

“Are those the papers I signed earlier? Why are you doing this in the lobby?” Your mother’s voice suddenly boomed behind Rie. Stepping back a bit to the side, she made way for her as she checked the papers. “I was just helping her sort it out, ma’am since I don’t have much work in my hands.” The employee answered, watching the way your mom’s eyes scanned the documents for a bit before they turned to Rie. The woman’s features are strong yet beautiful, they’re nothing similar to yours. It only led Rie to the conclusion that you must look like your father. You look a lot less fierce than your mother. Rie bowed her head a bit when her eyes swept her up and down.

“Oh, it’s you again.” Rie smiled politely, greeting your mother as she turned to face her fully. To be honest, Rie was a bit nervous when talking to her because of how serious she always seemed. She could already tell why you can’t stand living in the same house as her but what Rie couldn’t understand was how you weren’t scared enough to follow every word she says. But then again, parents—no matter how strict they are, have the tendency to spoil their children. And you’re an only child. It’d only make sense if you grew up getting everything you want even just by throwing a bit of a tantrum.

“Do you…” Rie isn’t dumb. She’s aware of the possibility that you might’ve told your mother about her already. The question is: which version did you tell about her? The woman who your boyfriend cheated on you with? Or the woman your ex-boyfriend cheated on with you? Either way, Rie knows that she’s not winning because this is your mom. There’s no way she’d take into consideration that Rie got betrayed too.

“Do you happen to know my daughter?” Your mother continued, almost confirming Rie’s initial thoughts about you telling her your story. “A friend? A former classmate?” She inquired further, doing her best to plaster a friendly smile on her face. She notices how Rie looks so tense just by talking to her. It was a harmless question really, but after talking to so many people all her life, negotiating and sealing deals, your mother could easily read someone’s expressions and actions.

“Not really, ma’am. Just…through an acquaintance. I knew her through an old high school classmate.” Rie smiled, enveloping her right hand with her left just to check the temperature, something she does out of habit when in such situations. She can see your mother nod before her eyebrows scrunched up as if she’s deep in thought, “The doctor?” Your mother tried to guess, referring to Shoko and Rie only nodded, not wanting to drag the conversation long. She’s already uncomfortable around your mother, and she made it worse by asking about you.

“I figured. She helped Y/N a lot when she was at the hospital.” I know that. I was one of the reasons why that happened to your daughter. Rie’s eyebrows furrowed for a second at the thought. She remembered seeing Shoko with your parents in the waiting room when they got there, it felt like everything happened only yesterday. She realized that her romance with Satoru was cut too fast and too short. It still stings but she knows that she’d take him back in an instant if he ever changes his mind.

“So, you know Satoru too? And the tattoo artist.” Rie almost wondered if your mother was a mind-reader. An annoying one. “Y/N said they’re classmates.” She tapped her long nails at the top of the marble table. It sounded like the ticking of the clock and it all felt like a time-gated interview that would cost her something if she didn’t answer on time. She nodded again, avoiding your mother’s eyes as she pursed her lips. She can see her nod from the corners of her eyes.

“Oh well, you guys do what you should be doing. I’ll get going now.” Rie almost let out a sigh of relief as she heard the clacking of her heels fade away into the distance. She can hear her friend giggling as she closedsher eyes, taking a deep breath. She really thought that she was going to confront her about you. Even if she knew that you and your mother were not that close, she’s also aware that your mother would do anything to make sure that you’re not being stepped on.

“You know Miss Y/N?” Her friend asked, placing the papers in front of Rie. “Not personally. The guy with her is an old friend.” Rie followed the direction where your mother went, both curious and scared as to why she’s intrigued by her. “Ah, I see. Miss Y/N’s nice. She only started training and working here a couple of weeks ago.” Shaina smiled at Rie which she returned with a forced one.

“That man’s her ex. But I heard he’s trying to win her back even though he dumped her for someone else not long ago. At least that’s what the rumors here say. Don’t mention it to anyone.” Shaina hushed, eyes darting around to check their surroundings. Rie could only block out all the compliments her friend was saying about you. She doesn’t want to hear it. She doesn’t want to know about your life. She’s still not over everything and to see you looking so okay with Satoru following you around didn’t help at all.

It wasn’t the kindest thought but how else is she going to feel when you’re the reason why she’s hurting? She still regrets letting Satoru go with you that day.

_______________________________________

“Thank you, I’ll just call you when I need something.” You murmured as you reached for your seatbelt before Satoru beat you to it. His brows furrowed at your words, “I can’t leave you, you’re not feeling well. What if something happens to you and the baby?” He slouched in his seat, eyeing you through the rearview mirror. As much as possible, you still try to keep your distance from Satoru, constantly reminding yourself that whatever you’re doing right now is just for the sake of the life that you two made. Nothing more.

You know that what your mother said is not impossible. Being with him can only make you fall back into him.

“I lied. I just wanted to leave.” You told him directly, watching as his mouth slightly opened at your confession. You fidgeted with your fingers before clicking your tongue and reaching for the door. “Are you sure? I can stay with you, my work can wait—” Satoru was cut off when you let out an annoyed sigh as you turned your head to the window. “We don’t live together, Satoru. You stay with me for the baby but that doesn’t mean that you can just go in and out of my flat as you please. You’re not my boyfriend.” You opened the door to step out, ignoring the pained expression on his face.

Satoru had to stare at your back as you walked inside your building, throbbing pain in his chest and a tight feeling in his throat. This wasn’t new to him ever since he tried to win you back but it still hurt. It’s been something that he’s kept in him for so long because he knows that he doesn’t have the right to complain but these days, Suguru has more access to you and your everything than him. It hurts to see that everything that he’s lost is now seemingly making its way to somebody else.

Satoru doesn’t know the depth of what you two share but he’s aware of how deep Suguru’s feelings go for you are. He doesn’t know what happened on all those nights that you were needing him but Suguru was the one beside you. He doesn’t know anything about the two of you anymore and it scared him. It’s like karma biting him back in the ass twice as hard after what he pulled on his best friend five years ago.

“Suguru, you free?” He spoke on the phone, looking again at the number that he unknowingly dialed as he looked at the doors of your apartment building. He hoped that you’d step out of it and take back everything you said and instead ask him if he wanted to stay. He knows that you’re still upset about what happened earlier and Satoru wants nothing but to erase all those thoughts from your mind. But how is he gonna do that when you locked him out?

“I’m about to close the shop, why?” He can hear Suguru doing something in the background. Satoru needs to talk about it all or he’ll end up losing his mind. If he finds out anything that would destroy him then he’d let it destroy him. It’d be unfair if he were to counter it when he’s the one who caused it. He’s left with no other option but to stay quiet and understand.

“Let’s go out for a drink. Y/N’s mad at me.” Satoru chuckled at the ache in his chest. It’s not the ‘You annoy me’ type of mad but the ‘I can’t stand being in the same place as you.’ type of mad that you’re feeling for him. It’s agonizing to think that the person who used to love him with all her heart and more is now closing herself away from him.

He can’t blame you for wanting to protect yourself from him.

“She always is.” The sound of the door slamming shut can be heard from Suguru’s line and Satoru took it as a cue to start his car again. “Alright, let’s just meet there, send me the place.” Suguru continued and Satoru could only hum, and thank him for agreeing. He quickly sent him a message before proceeding to drive. It was a cold and silent war the two of you are going through. Satoru has his white flag raised high but still, he continues to charge toward you, wanting nothing but to be on the same side as you again.

Reaching the pub, Satoru was thinking of how to ask the question in his head without aggravating the other. It’s been there for weeks now, and now that he’s seeing that his situation with you is not improving at all, he knew he had to talk to his friend. There are times when you’d call Suguru when he’s around and he feels like a third wheel; like he’s listening in on a conversation spoken in a language that the two of you understand.

He asked Shoko about it already but the only answer that he got was “We stayed with her when you were gone.” but it was never about Suguru alone. She’s the on who suggested Satoru talk to the two of you but he doesn’t want to stress you with that. If there’s something that you aren’t telling him, then it’s fine. He won’t force you to tell him, like you said, you’re only letting him in because of the baby.

“Hey,” He tapped Suguru’s shoulder as he walked by him to sit on the other side. He looked around, licking his lips as he nodded, thankful that it wasn’t as crowded as he expected it to be. He still doesn’t know how to talk to Suguru about this. Hell, he doesn’t even know why he was so insistent on knowing about it. It’s not like it would change anything. A positive and negative response is just equal at this point.

“How’s Y/N?” Suguru pulled up his sleeve, leaning on his elbow as he pushed the drink he ordered for his friend. He’s got a feeling that this hang-out isn’t just for catching up. Eyeing his best friend and his stance, he could tell that he was about to ask him something. Spending more time with you brought you, him, and Shoko closer together; him especially. You were close before but now, it feels as if he’s seen everything already. In a span of two months, you made him feel as if he’s been missing you his whole life.

It was like you were making up for the lost time that he was supposed to be with you.

“She’s doing good. I just dropped her home.” Satoru scratched his head as he chuckled mirthlessly before proceeding, “She locked me out again.” He shook his head, before looking up to meet Suguru’s eyes. He can tell that he feels sorry for him. He’s looking at him with sympathy, probably thinking if he should tell him words of comfort or just say ‘you had it coming.’ But instead, he just sighed and took a gulp of his drink.

“You know it’s not going to be easy.” Suguru shook his head, leaning back as he traced the body of his glass, there was a short moment of silence before Satoru’s deep intake of breath cut through it, “I don’t even know if it’s gonna work.” Suguru felt bad for his friend. He knows that what he did was wrong and the damage he had caused to you may be beyond repair but the way he’s dedicating his everything just to be with you again when there is no certainty is undeniably admirable.

“You’re gonna ask me something,” Suguru stated rather than ask. It only made Satoru smile, chuckling as he nodded his head signaling that Suguru’s assumption was right. Suguru doesn’t plan on lying about anything. You two already talked about what happened, you didn’t try to deny it or even ignore it. If anything, the day after that, you both opened it up to each other.

“It wasn’t a mistake, I know what I was doing.” You plopped down on your couch in front of him as he tried to predict what you were thinking. Suguru was aware too but the thing about intoxication is you don’t really have enough control over your body. Especially when you’re hurting. And also when he’s pining. Your desire to forget and his suppressed feelings for you were intensified by the alcohol and that’s why it happened.

“Look, I know what I did was wrong-” He started, leaning his elbow on his knees as he heard you sigh, clicking your tongue as you put down your cup. “Stop blaming yourself, I let it happen too.” You closed your eyes, thinking of how it would affect Satoru when he finds out. Sure, he cheated on you. And yes, you’re not together anymore but Suguru is still his best friend. Betrayal is betrayal and no matter how fast you try to run away from it, you know that its consequences are bound to catch up to you— even if you weren’t intentionally trying to hurt him when something happened between you and Suguru—if you don’t fail to make things right..

“If he asks you about it, don’t lie.” You swallowed, rubbing the back of your neck with your hand. “I’d tell him about it, I just have to figure out how.” You added and it only made Suguru wonder if you’d take it all the way with him if he asked you to. He wondered if you’d agree to be with him if he told you how he feels for you. But he won’t. He already feels like he took advantage of you because of what happened. Acting on his selfish feelings will only prove how bad of a friend he is to Satoru and to you.

“Look, I’m sorry. I was less drunk, I should’ve—” Another click of your tongue made Suguru stop yet again. You sighed as you stared at him, shaking your head, “I told you not to blame yourself. I initiated it.” You reminded him, but it only made him feel more guilty, thinking that he should’ve never given in. No matter how much control he lost over himself. As if that was an easy thing.

“I was thinking of telling him about it already, you know?” You sighed, fiddling with your fingers as you recalled your thoughts earlier before you and Suguru decided to talk. “But I realized, it’s not like we started dating. And it’s not like he’s still my boyfriend either.” You explained, glancing up at him just to see his reaction because you’re not really sure if you’re making sense. “But then again, he’s still your friend. It’d be even more disrespectful if we tried to hide it from him. We’re gonna have to tell him about it soon.”

Suguru nodded as he looked at you, your eyes glued on the carpeted floors as worry and disappointment became more prominent in your features with each passing second. Suguru knows that Satoru is more than curious about what happened while he was gone. His ex-girlfriend spent time with his best friend almost every day. If Suguru was in his place, he’d probably worry about it too. It’s not like there was no trust in their friendship. But knowing that your best friend used to harbor feelings for your ex-girlfriend, and probably still does, is something that could create such thoughts.

The plan to confess everything to Satoru didn’t change, but your pregnancy happened and all of a sudden it’s the least important thing. So many things were changing and taking place that your initial plan to talk to Satoru got buried under them all. Suguru can almost see the consequences of that negligence right now.

“You still have feelings for Y/N?” He asked casually as if he wasn’t bouncing his leg up and down under the table due to anxiousness. He took a big gulp of his drink, preparing himself for whatever answer he may get. Satoru promised himself that he wouldn’t start a fight. That’s why he chose this space, thinking that maybe it could help him keep his emotions in check. But obviously, Suguru knows him better than that.

“I’m going out for a smoke. We should talk outside.” He stood up from his seat, not waiting for Satoru as he pulled out a packet of cigarettes. Satoru stared at the back of his head as he followed like he was trying to read his thoughts, desperate for answers as the long walk to the parking lot burned his patience. Suguru went to the farthest end, near the fence where no one could hear them. Had Satoru known that he’d be like this about it, he would’ve met him somewhere else instead.

“Why won’t you just say it to me? Something happened, right?” Satoru clenched his teeth as he watched Suguru pause his movements before putting the cigarette packet back in his pants. He couldn’t even bother to smoke now that he can feel his best friend’s rising temper. He wanted to protect Satoru’s feelings and you from whatever he might say or do if Suguru admits the truth. But it was like he can almost hear your voice, reminding him to just say the truth instead of stacking up the lies.

“Yeah.” Satoru’s hand clenched as he looked away, swallowing away his wrath as the images of you and Suguru doing it in the bed you once shared played before his eyes. Did you think like this when he was away with Rie too? It’s driving him insane. The thought of it, the idea of it was squeezing his heart, shattering his very core as strings of whispered curses rushed past his lips. Satoru can almost hear your voice calling out Suguru’s name and he can already taste the blood in his mouth.

“When?” Satoru tried to keep his voice calm but failed. There was a big difference in the lighthearted tone of his voice from when he was talking inside the bar to now. “How and why did it happen?” Every word that comes out of his mouth keeps getting louder but Satoru cannot control it. Not when the thoughts of someone else making you feel the same way he did was racing inside his head. “I know I’m not her boyfriend anymore, but what the fuck, Suguru?”

Satoru was panting as he spoke the last part. He can hear his teeth grinding against each other as he clenches them. He waited for his friend to answer, patiently and then, impatiently. He doesn’t know when he grabbed his shoulders to turn him around, quickly grabbing his collar to pull him harshly. Satoru’s eyes were blown wide as he breathed heavily, eyes full of anger, hurt, betrayal, disappointment, and frustration.

“It happened sometime after you tried to get back with Y/N. She was drunk and I was too.” Suguru started, eyebrows furrowed as he remained unmoving even as Satoru’s grip on his shirt got tighter. He’d seen this coming. Of course, he’d get angry. Finding out that your ex did something like that with your best friend is revolting. Some may even consider it unforgivable. Suguru is in the wrong this time and he’s got no plans but to own up to them. No matter how shitty Satoru treated Y/N, he still doesn’t deserve this betrayal.

“And you never told me? I asked you multiple times if there’s something going on between the two of you.” Satoru’s teeth started to tingle from how hard he was clenching his jaw and grinding his molars together. It was starting to get painful and he could feel his hands get colder as his knuckles started to feel numb from the friction with the fabric of his friend's shirt.

“I’m sorry—” Suguru was cut off by a punch from Satoru as he briefly let go of his shirt before pulling him back again, slamming his body against his as he let out all his frustrations through his words, shaking his friend as he glowered at him with bloodshot eyes, red with anger and the strain from fighting back his tears. Suguru couldn’t bring himself to punch back but instead just let his friend shake an answer out of him.

“Did you plan this?”, “Is this Y/N’s way of getting back to me?”, “Will you ever tell me if I didn’t ask?” The questions kept pushing their way out of Satoru’s lungs, taking his breath away with them, and leaving him panting. “What did you do? Tell me everything.” Satoru glared directly at Suguru who was now wiping the blood off his chin. His eyebrows furrowed as he hung his head down in shame.

“I…I touched her.” Suguru started but was quickly cut off by Satoru’s growl, “How?” He tried to steady his breaths as he took a step away from his best friend as if controlling himself not to throw another hit on him for the sake of the answers that he was trying to get out of him. It was hard. Especially when the images of the woman you love being pleasured by someone else keep flickering before your eyes.

“We didn’t do it, Satoru. I touched her but she didn’t touch me. I left before something worse could happen—” Curses flew out of Satoru’s mouth as if Suguru just gave him the dumbest explanation ever. “You think that changes anything?” He chuckled bitterly, his eyes are now more sad than angry. Satoru shook his head, mouth twitching as he backed away, letting go of Suguru’s shirt.

“Were you just waiting for me to fuck up before you pull some shit like this?” Satoru chuckled, looking at Suguru like he just caught up on his plans but Suguru knew that it was nonexistent. What happened between the two of you just happened. He’d never plot something like this against his friend. He’d never thought of it. No matter how much he wanted you, he never wished ill about your and Satoru’s relationship.

“I wouldn’t do that to you—” Suguru was once again interrupted when Satoru grabbed his shirt again, with both hands this time. “But you did! You know how vulnerable she was!” Suguru flinched, his brows pulling together as he let his friend let all his anger out. He cannot blame Satoru for thinking that way. Suguru knows damn well that anyone who’d hear the story would think that he took advantage of you and the situation you were going through.

“Did you think it would make her love you? Did you think that after all these years, that’s all it would take to make her love you?” It was painful to hear those words because Suguru knows the answer to them. Not once has he and Satoru talked about their feelings for you even if it was not a secret to them and Shoko. “Don’t think that just because I fucked up, you can love her more than I do. You cannot take my place, Suguru. You weren’t even able to get her back then when we weren’t together, what makes you think you’d get her now?”

It was now Suguru’s turn to throw a strong punch at his friend, sending him staggering backward. To get angry at him for the betrayal that he did was one thing but to bring up the past that he was struggling to forget every day was another. Thoughts of what ifs and what could’ve been haunted him from the moment he gave you away. And to hear about it now is just another bullet in his heart. The first sentences were hurtful enough even though he knows that he deserved it.

“You know why she never fell for me!” Suguru spat back, panting as he stopped himself from throwing another punch. He should be the one being beaten because of what he did but he just can’t let it go. He’s been keeping it all to himself for the sake of his friendship with Satoru and you. Suguru decided that if he was going to remind him of it then, he might as well repeat to him why he got you too.

“I loved her first!” Suguru shouted, finally letting go of all the words that he’s been dying to say. In all those moments that you were with him, in every tear that he wipes away from your eyes part of him regrets just giving up on you. He couldn’t count how many times he wondered if surrendering was the right choice he made.

“I really like Y/N, you know?” Satoru threw the small pebble across the road, letting it tumble on the hot pavement before coming to a stop under the streetlight as it hit its pole. To be honest, Suguru doesn’t know how to respond to him and that’s why he kept quiet, waiting for Satoru to say more about his feelings for you. Suguru can already feel how complicated it would be if he told him his.

“And you do, too. Right?” Satoru chuckled, elbowing his side. Suguru looked at him, there was nothing but seriousness on his face. He can’t find it in himself to laugh when he’s aware of how profound his emotions toward you are. And knowing his friend, Satoru might downplay a lot of things but Suguru knows him too much to not understand the underlying meaning of his statements.

“I…” Suguru heard the air passing through his teeth as he inhaled sharply, Suguru didn’t like how he hesitated to tell him the story as if it was something so big of a deal. Satoru is a man who speaks his mind, so for him to pause before saying something to Suguru made him feel like he was about to open up about a serious topic.

“We…something happened between Y/N and I.” Satoru sounded very steady as he let the sentence flow out of his mouth. Like it’s something he’s been rehearsing just to tell Suguru. “Look, I’m not trying to one-up you or anything. It just happened, we were hanging out and you were busy.” Satoru turned his body to him. All of a sudden everything was just quiet. The distant sound of cars speeding down the empty street in the middle of the night was loud even if it was out of sight.

“You know I was trying to pursue her,” Suguru replied, sighing heavily as he untied his shoes just to do something with his hands. He felt helpless after what Satoru said and he was already subconsciously admitting his defeat. Satoru shifted beside him, running a hand through his hair as he shook his head slowly, making Suguru chuckle.

“I…You never told me. You didn’t tell her either. It was never confirmed, how am I supposed to know?” Satoru doesn’t want to ruin his friendship with Suguru. He had a feeling that he liked Y/N more than others but he didn’t think that he was that serious about it. He cannot find it in himself to let you slip away too.

“Look, It wasn’t intentional. Had I known that you feel like that for her I would’ve—” Satoru turned his body to Suguru, stopping himself when he saw his best friend looking down. With his lips pursed, Suguru turned to Satoru. He was expecting him to have an angry look on his face, a look of betrayal. Satoru wanted him to be mad at him for being so careless with his feelings but Suguru just smiled at him. A light chuckle escaped his lips as he stood up, tapping Satoru’s shoulder in the process.

“It’s cool. I’ll get over it.” His hand instinctively reached out for the lighter in his pocket, pulling it out to play with it as silence took over everything. “Just…make her happy. Don’t play with her, Satoru.” Suguru glanced at him briefly over his shoulders. Satoru could only sigh as he watched Suguru’s back. He knows that Suguru is a nice guy, but he can’t help but feel like he should’ve been more observant of how he treated you.

“I know you’re thinking about giving way, Satoru. You can’t do that. It’ll only get awkward for the three of us; especially for Y/N, you know?” It took everything in him to make the conversation sound as light as it can be; in contrast with the heavy feeling in his chest—almost as if he was being dragged down by the ground. Almost as if it’s wanting to swallow him whole.

Happy crushes shouldn’t feel like this.

Just like back then, Satoru couldn’t answer. He doesn’t know what to say when his best friend just slapped him with the truth that’s been lurking in his shadows all this time. He knows that he’s got no business talking about how Suguru wouldn’t get you when the only reason that kept him away from you was Satoru. Had his best friend not held back from you before, would you be stuck with him now? It’s almost as if it was a butterfly effect. Things wouldn’t be like this now if you were with the better man.

Satoru wouldn’t want to hear that from you, though. He doesn’t want to hear you regret not noticing his best friend first when he could’ve been the better option for you. Satoru would only get this selfish with you. Even when he doesn’t have the right to. It’s just too painful to think about how he’d probably never be enough for all the love that you are ready to give. He’s not worthy of it but that doesn’t mean that he wouldn’t work for years just to be deserving of it.

“Don’t tell me that you love her more, you’ve done too much to convince me of that,” Suguru added, wiping the corner of his mouth as he panted, calming himself down. To be perfectly honest, he was already over it all. He wasn’t praying for his best friend to fuck up just to get a chance with you. He loves you but he’s way past the stage of being jealous of Satoru. But it’d be a lie if he said he never wished it was him to sleep next to you during the first months of your relationship.

He just slowly got over it. Realizing that seeing you every day, smiling and fine is enough for him. Realizing that he’d be able to be close to you, to look after you, even as a friend is enough for him. But they were right. It’s easy to fall back in love with someone you already loved before—very easy.

Because if it’s not, he wouldn’t be putting his heart on the line, the moment Satoru messed with you. He wouldn’t be holding your hand as you fall asleep beside him at night, with tears streaming down your face as you whimper your heartbreaker’s name. He wouldn’t be breaking his barriers just to make sure you’re getting all the attention you need even if it means crushing his own heart again. Suguru isn’t dumb. He knows that you don’t plan on getting into anything serious with him but that became fine for him too. A sad reality that he woke up to every day but is only accepting today.

You only wanted the comfort and kindness that he gave you. But you never wanted his everything as you did with Satoru. Like he did with you.

You just didn’t want to be lonely, and he just happened to be there with you.

“I know I’m wrong, Satoru. It was a moment of weakness, what else can I do?” Suguru muttered, jaw clenching as his nails dug into his palm. “Bringing up the past wouldn’t fix it. I don’t even know how to make this shit up to you.” His voice almost broke at the last part.

Satoru just stood there, looking at him as a single tear rolled down to his chin. He quickly ran a hand through his face, sighing violently as he looked away from Suguru. It’s like a crash from the wrath that he was feeling earlier. It still hurts. Knowing about what happened that night is a thorn in his heart. Something that he wouldn’t bother to pull out even if it killed him—even if he was stepped on too.

Because if one looks closely and traces all the events that had happened and are happening now, he would always be the main cause.

It was his actions that led everything and all of you to this mess. Suguru watches as Satoru straightens his posture, running a hand through his hair as his lips quiver ever so slightly. “Was Y/N planning to tell me the truth?” Satoru spoke, turning to his right as his eyes looked straight ahead. There was nothing but sorrow in his light blue eyes as he bit his inner lip.

“Yes. It’s been bothering her but she cannot find the right time.” Satoru sighed loudly, nodding slowly as he slightly turned his head to look at the ground between him and Suguru. “Don’t stress her out because of this, if you’re mad just take it out on me,” Suguru added, worried that Satoru might confront you about it. “And don’t suspect her of anything else, Satoru. You know she wouldn’t do something like that.”

“She’s pregnant with my child, what makes you think I’d do that to her?” Satoru emphasizes the term of possession. As if trying to prove something with it, when in reality, that’s just him reassuring himself. He’s agitated by the fact that Suguru could tell where his accusations are going. He pushed them all aside, not wanting to think like that about you.

“I know what’s good and bad for her,” Satoru added quietly, too drained to start anything again anymore. Suguru could only watch as Satoru walked away from him, quick to find his car and eager to go back to you.

—---------------------------

Three knocks at the door made Y/N’s eyes widen in shock as she looked back at it. Turning off the stove, she trudged towards the door but not before peeking through the hole. Seeing the father of the growing child in her womb, she opened the door. Her blank face faltered at the obvious redness of Satoru’s eyes.

“Why?” Y/N questioned but still stepped aside to let the man in. Satoru sighed at the warm air inside the room. It’s always warm near Y/N. He thought letting the comforting atmosphere that he was feeling despite the cold welcome that you gave him. It’s like he’s already contented to know that you are still letting him around you, to be near you even after all that he’s done. Maybe you’re only doing it for the sake of your baby but it still made Satoru hopeful.

“Nothing. I had a few drinks. Are you cooking?” Satoru gave a small smile as he stepped inside, peering at the kitchen as he changed the topic. He knows that you noticed but he can’t have you stressing about anything now. It’s not easy to hide the evidence of how much he poured his feelings out while he drove. Stopping at the dimly lit parts of the street just because he can’t see anything in front of him.

“Yeah.” You closed the door, not taking your eyes off of him as he walked to your kitchen, removing his jacket on his way to place it on the couch. Your eyes followed the clothing, staring at it blankly for a few seconds, before shaking your head, blinking as you snapped the thoughts out of your head.

“Why are you here?” You walked to the kitchen, seeing him turn the stove on again. He glanced at you briefly before focusing on the dish again. “I figured you’d probably want something to eat.” He took a deep breath, trying to think of a way to sound collected. “I was thinking about calling you to ask if you want something but you don’t like fast food nowadays, right?” He smiled at you, tapping the spatula on the lip of the pan.

“M-hm.” You hummed pulling a chair out to sit, “Where were you?” You reached over to grab the apple sitting inside the basket in the middle of your kitchen table. You heard the stove turn off before Satoru laughed lightly, “I went drinking with Suguru after he closed his shop. Just a light drink.” His hand brushed your shoulder in a soothing manner as he walked behind you, grabbing a plate.

“Why? Did you miss me?” He teased as he tried to carefully put the food on the plate before putting it in front of you. You scoffed, “You wish.” You grabbed the spoon and fork that he was handing out to you, hearing him chuckle. He continued to move around your kitchen, placing a tall glass on the table as he poured you some orange juice. You chewed your food as you watched the vibrant color fill the transparent glass.

“Did he miss me?” He asked you, making you look up at him. He was staring at you with eyes softer than before. There was a hint of tiredness behind it but the glimmer of affection is what made you sigh. “He?” You raised your eyebrow after swallowing, giving him a small smirk as you stood up to grab the glass in front of him. “What makes you so sure that it’s a he?” You sat back down, rubbing your stomach as you gave a small smile. Thinking about it now, you’re excited to find out if the baby is a boy or a girl.

“I just feel it.” He shook his head, holding back his smile. “What if we get twins?” You looked down, voicing out your thoughts as you got lost in your head, thinking about how you’ll buy little clothes and shoes for your little one and how you’ll paint a room and decorate it. In the corner of your eye, you could see Satoru pulling out the chair beside you. You looked at him to see him leaning his head on his hand, watching you in awe.

“That sounds nice.” He breathed out, feeling lightheaded because of the growing intensity of his feelings for you. Just when he thought that it couldn’t get any stronger, you showed him that there’s always more of you to love. Satoru prayed in his mind, talking to the heavens above that one day he could call you his again.

“We should think of a nickname, you know?” His hand slowly reached out, caressing your stomach as you put down your utensils. His hand is warm and it almost made you forget all the events and thoughts that you experienced earlier. There was comfort in his touch as you turned to your side to give him more access.

Satoru knelt down in front of you, placing both of his large hands on your tummy. He looked up at you, watching your eyes for a moment before scooting closer until he was in between your thighs. He let out a long sigh before pressing his forehead on your stomach.

“Mama and Dada will be fine.” He whispered quietly and you almost didn’t catch it. He sounds so vulnerable, so miserable. He’s always sounded like that but this time there was more pain lacing his voice. He kissed your stomach, letting his lips rest there for a couple of seconds before completely wrapping his arms around your waist, pressing the side of his face against you. He was like a child, looking for solace.

And so you reached your hand to his hair, running your fingers through it as you feel him pull you closer. You let your hand run down the back of his neck to his shoulders and back. He looked up at you with glassy eyes. You almost got worried when he suddenly gave you a small smile. Was he so happy that he started to tear up? You thought, feeling the warmth spread on your chest.

Without noticing, your hands gently moved from his shoulder blades to his face, cupping his cheeks as your traced his jaw. His eyes closed, leaning into your touch, holding your hand in place as he savored the feeling. When was the last time that you were this affectionate with him? He missed it so much that he almost felt like crying again.

All his questions and sentiments from earlier are now gone and replaced by the longing feeling in his chest. It has been so long that he almost forgot how good it felt to be held in your arms. This is what he’s been craving all this time. Before he ruined everything, this was how you touched him. He settled for someone else’s touch, having forgotten how loved he feels with you.

If you give up on getting what feels right for you, you’ll end up having to make do with what is available to you.

Realizing all of this now made Satoru think that he has had that “It’s not really what I want but it works.” moment in his life with Rie. “Can I sleep here tonight?” He asked you, enveloping your hand in his. They were cold and you wouldn’t miss the slight tremble in his flesh. You don’t exactly know what happened but you got an idea of what he talked about with Suguru while drinking. You let your teeth dig in the skin of your lips as you bit it. Guilt and shame crawling up your throat. You feel bad about it, even more now that you can almost feel Satoru’s body begging to stay near you.

“I’ll just sleep on the couch. Please.” Satoru needs it. He needs to know that you’re with him. Even if not with your whole heart, Satoru needs to know that he’s not as helpless as he really feels when it comes to you. He needs to know that there’s still a little bit of hope that he could cling to.

“It’s fine.” You murmured, letting him kiss your knuckles as he whispered ‘thank you’s’ on them. “Are you hungry? I’m sorry, I’ll let Mama eat now. ” He spoke to your stomach again, making you laugh a little. You wanted to snap at him when he showed up at your door unannounced but all of that is gone now.

He stood up and sat on the chair letting you eat in comfortable silence as he softly spoke of his plans for your baby. It’s like he’s had it all thought out and listed. Even when you were still dating, you didn’t think that he’d be this excited. It made you wonder if everything could’ve been prevented had your pregnancy happened earlier in your relationship.

On the other hand, it made you scared; not for yourself but for your child. If you had your baby earlier and those events still happened, you wouldn’t know what to do. Would Satoru do that if he already had a kid with you? It made your guts churn as the stinging throb in your chest made it harder for you to swallow.

Time flew by, faster than it usually does. Maybe it’s because of Satoru’s head on your chest as his hand caressed your lower stomach, whispering gently to the growing life inside you. You didn’t have it in you to deny him or push him off. Not when you can hear all his pain in his voice. You know that your mother’s statements about your relationship with Satoru isn’t entirely impossible but you’re giving it your all not to spiral down again for the sake of your child.

When the morning came, you woke up to the smell coming from your kitchen. The sky looks kind as the rising sun shone a gentle light on your windows. You rubbed your eyes, wondering why Satoru’s up so early. You can’t even remember how you fell asleep last night. The last thing you remember was the warm touch of lips against your forehead, paired with the light touch of his hand on your tummy.

You were about to get up and wash your face when the door to your bedroom opened slowly. The creaking sound halted your movements as Satoru peeked in, smiling before letting himself in when he saw you awake. “I was going to ask you if you feel like having your breakfast here. I know you were not a fan of breakfasts in bed.” He chuckled, closing the door carefully before walking to you.

“Still not a fan of it.” You laughed as you stood up, stretching. Satoru pushed your hair back, away from your face. You sighed as you closed your eyes, your eyelids still heavy from your slumber. You heard Satoru chuckle, pulling you to him and letting you rest your head on his chest. It felt like all tthe tension from the other was just leaving your body today. You mentally thanked yourself for letting Satoru sleep over. The way his palm rubbed up and down your back soothed you. “Let’s go eat. This little bean is hungry.” You ushered, pulling him out of the room.

You spent your breakfast taking small glances at Satoru, occasionally catching him staring lovingly at you, something he never bothered to hide or deny whenever you ask him why. There was more than enough food for two people but you didn’t mind, given the increase in your appetite.

“Just leave the plates on the table. I’ll be washing them.” He spoke to you as he poured more milk in your glass. You hummed, thanking him as he passed it to you. Satoru changed a lot ever since he found out about your pregnancy. When he’s working, he texts you ever hour just to ask if you need anything. You remember how annoyed you were during the first few weeks. You still get annoyed sometimes but not right now when he’s literally serving you like a queen.

“You’ve been doing so much already. This is my house.” You spoke to him, setting down the half empty glass of milk in front of you. Satoru’s back is facing you as he washed the plates. His arms was on full display in his tank tops and you can’t help but notice how his muscles flexed everytime he moved. You took a deep breath, reminded yourself that it’s just because of pregnancy hormones and picked up your phone to distract yourself before he could he even glance back at you to answer.

“And that is my child. I’m not letting you do anything if I could do it for you.” His answer made you laugh. He wiped his hand as he completely turned to you, watching you throw your head back. Satoru wished that it would always be like this. He doesn’t care if you won’t give him answers to his questions, he just want you to be this happy even when he’s around.

“You got a point.” You drank the rest of the milk in your glass as he pulled the chair in front of you. “Let me get you a new place.” He spoke suddenly, making you look up from your phone. “It has to be more spacious than this one so the child can run around or play.” Satoru wanted to offer to buy a home for the three of you, but he doesn’t know how you’d react to that, considering that you only want him around for the baby.

“I can get one. I have savings.” You heard him sigh softly, pursing his lips as he shook his head. “I can’t let you do that.” Satoru got used to picking the words when talking to you. He understands that you’re very sensitive nowadays and he knows that he can’t afford to have you lashing out and locking him out of your apartment again.

“Why not? It’s fine by me. I’ll be living there too.” You tried to reason, surprisingly calmer than how Satoru thought you’d be. “You won’t let me sleep over?” Satoru tried lifting the mood a bit, the small smile in his lips caused you to smile too. “No. What if you bring your girlfriend? I don’t want her near my child.” You narrowed your eyes playfully at him and now, it’s his turn to laugh at your little drama.

“Who said I’m getting a girlfriend?” He threw his head back like you just said the funniest joke on Earth. “It’s not impossible!” You defended yourself, letting a small frown take over your features as he leaned forward to watch your face before speaking again, “I’m determined about trying to make it work with you. I won’t get a girlfriend, Y/N.” There was a tone of assurance in his voice and for some reason it calmed you down.

“There’s no guarantee to that. What if someone comes along? There’s no way to stop yourself from falling for someone.” You talked more seriously to him, leaning back on your chair and thinking about how it would be if Satoru were to have someone in his life. You don’t like it. You don’t like how the thoughts are making you feel. Maybe it’s because you don’t want your child having to fight for his attention or maybe it’s because you don’t like the idea of your child spending time with Satoru’s new girlfriend instead of you.

What if your child becomes closer to them than you? There was an image of them walking away from you in your head and it felt like someone was squeezing your heart. You thought about how his new girlfriend could make your child feel like they were his whole, real and happy family. Then your child would probably feel like it’s better to be with them than alone with you and you don’t know if you could take that.

“Hey. I know what you’re thinking, it’s not going to happen.” Satoru’s hand felt warm against yours but you couldn’t help but snatch it away, furrowing your brows at him, truly annoyed this time. “I don’t care if it does, but my baby is mine.” You clenched your teeth before leaving the kitchen and slamming your bedroom door.

Satoru just sighed, finally used to how fast your mood can change. You’d probably come out later when you’re hungry and if you don’t Satoru’s already ready to prepare whatever your cravings to lure you out. A couple of minutes later, his phone started to ring and he was grateful that it was only Shoko. He doesn’t know how he’d talk to Suguru again after what happened.

“How’s Y/N?” Shoko immediately spoke when he answered, “I know about what happened yesterday. It’s not the best season to ask Y/N.” She quickly added and Satoru nodded like she could see him before answering, “I didn’t tell her, I won’t. Don’t worry about that. And she’s fine. She just walked out on me while we were having a conversation, probably thought herself into a bad mood again.”

“Thought herself into a bad mood? You just said that you were having a conversation. It must be something you said.” There was a hint of protectiveness in Shoko’s tone and Satoru bit his lip and closed his eyes. “We were talking about the possibility of me getting a girlfriend and I tried to assure her that I wouldn’t because I’m still hoping to work things out with her. Then, she probably thought about all the ways that it could affect the child and got angry.” He explained with a heavy sigh and a scratch on his head.

“That’s valid, though.” Shoko spoke from the other end and Satoru hummed, “Yeah, I understand. I just gotta think about how to put her mind at rest about those kinds of things.” He stood up to put away and wash the glass that you left on the table. After that, Satoru could only hum and agree to all the things that Shoko was advising him, knowing that it’s all for your good.

“I’ll drop by her apartment some time. My schedule’s kinda getting better. Tell her I said hi.” Shoko said before saying goodbye. Satoru could almost see her with a cigarette hanging between her lips from the way she sounded.

Satoru bit his upper lip as he leaned on the kitchen counter. He’s been thinking about going back to your mother’s office to apologize for all that has happened until now. He wants to let them know that he’s sure and resolute about getting you back again. He knows that your parents don’t trust him, but he’s determined to change that; not only through his words but also his actions. He wants to do all that he can just to prove it to you and to them.

_______________________________________

Two Weeks Later

“How many meetings do I have left for today?” Your mother asked her assistant as she struts out of the business partner’s building, completely ignoring all the greetings and bows that she was getting as she fixed her earring. “Three meetings, ma’am. I already moved the two from tomorrow afternoon to today, and the overseas meeting is the only one left for tomorrow.” The girl beside her spoke, making her nod as they walked past the glass doors to the car waiting for them.

“Good. It’s because I doubt we’d get back in time if the first one’s an overseas flight. The traffic sucks.” Your mother uttered as her secretary closed the car door. She has been worried about you ever since that day in her office. Her husband’s words only made her think about it more. She knows that she was harsh to you, but she’d never forgive herself if something happened to you or your child.

Your mother doesn’t like showing you how she really feels whenever you get yourself in trouble. She’d rather have you thinking that you have to pull your own tail if you mess up than thinking that you got someone to cover up for the mistakes that you make. You’re already independent, now she can see that you’re also trying to be responsible for your actions.

She was about to get her phone and send you a text just as the car started to move, but only a few shops away from the building that they just came out of, a familiar white hair caught her attention. “Slow down for a bit.” She commanded the driver who instantly obeyed, watching from the rearview mirror as your mother tried to get a clear view of the outside.

It’s Satoru, in front of an establishment, appearing to be waiting for someone as he typed away on his phone. Is he meeting with you? Friends? Maybe business matters. Your mother thought, leaning back, contemplating if she should tell her driver to keep moving or step out for a bit just to greet him. And of course, to ask about her daughter too. Your mother has already decided about greeting him when a girl rushed to Satoru, grabbing his arm as she stood close to him. Too close for comfort. Yet, he doesn’t seem fazed.

Your mother’s eyes narrowed at the sight. It was the girl that you went after in her office, the errand girl. She knew that she’s not just an interesting woman to you. And she’s definitely not just an acquaintance of Satoru. Not by the way he pulled her away from plain sight to a more hidden spot in between the buildings.

“Move the car forward a bit. Don’t let those two spot us.” Your mother spoke sternly to the driver, not taking his eyes away from Satoru who is now facing the woman again. It made your mother’s blood boil. Even with his back turned to your mother, she could see how the tip of the woman’s shoe is almost touching his and her hands still gripping his arm. Now, that is not how close you stand to your acquaintances.

She tried to search for her phone in her bag but she couldn’t afford to take her eyes away from the enraging scene in front of her. “Hey, you.” She hurriedly tapped her assistant’s shoulder multiple times, “Film it.” She ordered as she gave a bit of space for her. The girl quickly pulled out her phone and did her best to get a clear shot of the two.

There’s no way in hell that I’d let you fool my daughter again.

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grimreaperschild · 1 year

Text

bones 2

summary: the group starts to adjust to life, you run into a familiar face on a supply run.

warnings: violence, gore, language if i’ve missed anything lmk

a/n: pls im kinda falling in love w this series 😭 but im exited for what’s to come, hope you guys like the new addition to the group ;) happy reading-🦷

———————————————————————

the first few seconds of waking up are always so blissful, your head tucked into the crook of tara’s neck nuzzling yourself impossibly closer as she raked her hands up your back lovingly, but as soon as you blink the sleep out of your eyes the weight of the say settles itself on your shoulders, digging it’s claws in like some oversized evil bird “good morning sleepyhead” tara’s lips press to the shell of your ear and you snuggle closer, she giggles “you slept in a little today baby everyone’s already awake” you stretch “well everyone’s gonna have to wait for me to brush my teeth” you shuffle around and throw some marvel pj pants on to match your spider-man t when you open the door to your and tara’s room your met with ethan fist raised, he jumped back at the sight of you and opened his mouth to talk you hold your finger up “im brushing my teeth first” he follows you like a lost puppy to the bathroom tara appearing beside you shoving a toothbrush in her mouth and promptly disappearing again.

as soon as your spit hits the basin ethan voice reaches your ears “so i was thinking and there has to be others hauled up in houses i mean if we survived so should other people” you turned the tap, no water great. things are going just great. you push past ethan and into the kitchen in search of your girlfriend she’s stood with sam and mindy, you pick up a pan and spoon and knock them together a couple times “family meeting everyone to there seats” you call thorough the house chuckling as you watch everyone scurry to the living room, it’s been a couple days since the outbreak, a couple days since quin. yesterday you and sam had taken the boards down from her room and thrown her body out the window and you’d all spent the rest of the day cleaning the carpet and making her room as nice as possible, you’d closed the door and boarded it up again out of respect.

you stand in the middle of the room, the coffee table having long been pushed out of the way the only person your missing was anika and you eye the stairs through the door you mentally count to 5 smiling as she rushes down the stairs right on cue “sorry im late sorry guys im here, here” she holds her hands up stepping between people to claim her spot bedside mindy “the waters out sooner than we thought” a collective groan could be heard from the group and you held a hand up to silence them “yes i know, not ideal but we planned for this remember? me chad and sam go scout outside see what it’s like” “im still mad i pulled the short straw if we were measuring dick sizes i wouldn’t have to go out there” “that’s only because me and y/n don’t have dicks, bird brain” you snort and cover your mouth pretending to cough when chad shoots daggers your way “i guess i can’t put this off any longer anyone have any weapon ideas? i atleast wanna be iconic” tara gives you an unimpressed look but you continue on anyway “i was thinking we could hit up the wilderness shop down the way they have guns and stuff good place to loot” sam nods her head “yeah and for the way there i’ve got some climbing gear like picks and stuff” you cock your head to the side “how do i literally live with you and not know we both climb?” her head shoots up “your my sister in law and i don’t know you climb?” excitement lacing her tone “whoa hold your horses im not your sister in law yet” tara gives you another unamused look as sam goes to grab her gear “what do you wanna get married” anika pipes up “i can officiate, chad can be the flower girl” mindy laughs at the statement elbowing her brother in the side “why cant i be a flower girl” liv frowns “because your gonna be the ring bearer” “ethan’s definitely gonna be my best man” ethan’s head shoots up at your words a grin on his face “minds your my maid of honour and sam you can walk me down the isle” “deal” sam agrees having only heard the last end of the conversation.

you grab 2 picks from sam and throw one to chad “let me get out of my pjs and we can go” the light atmosphere turns thick the weight of what’s about to happen, you lean against the door and rest your hands on your knees in out, in, out everything’s ok it’s all gonna be ok you take a shaky breath standing tall, your ashamed to say you jump when you hear 3 soft knocks on the door tara’s head peers in “baby” she breathes and it’s unnaturally soft, it makes you crumble tears cascade down your cheeks “oh, baby” she takes you in her arms “i’ll be waiting for you right here when you get back” she rubs your back softly “when did i become leader” you choke out voice muffled by her neck “i cant do it, why do they all look to me, im not enough” you let yourself cry on her shoulder till there’s nothing left to cry tara whispering sweet nothings in your ear until you pull yourself away turning to get dressed.

when you walk back into the living room dressed in black cargos white t and a light brown knitted jumper tying your hair up in a ponytail chad and sam are waiting shoes already on, you flop onto the sofa as tara brings you your combat boots you tug them off tying the laces tight. “you guys ready?” you look at the faces of the people around you “as i’ll ever be” chad mutters sam nods solemnly in acknowledgement, you stand and make your way to the front door slowly “ethan, liv i want you on door duty, tara mindy i want you on watch” you strain as you move the dresser from the front door you step back and grab your pick as sam unbolts and swings the door open slowly surveying our surroundings “y/n” you turn at the sound of her voice and she presses a soft kiss to your lips your heart flutters at the action “come home, be safe” you allow chad and liv to have there moment before slinging your bag over your shoulders and taking the first steps out the door.

your hands are griping the pick so tight your knuckles are white as the 3 of you make your way down the street towards the hunting store, you’d never seen woodsbrough so deserted some bodys were laying on corners or in the street but you tried not to focus on them as you push on forward, you stifle a laugh as chad bumps into a lamppost while trying to look behind him “good job superman” he rubs his head and shoots you a glare “i don’t see you trying to watch our 6” sam bumps his shoulder “what is this? cod zombies? roger roger” you snort “that’s actually from starwars cod zombies kinda just screech like metal heads” you shudder at the thought “bookie” before anyone can call you a nerd for your starwars comment someone barrels into you knocking you to the floor, you let out a grunt as the person lands an elbow into your stomach effectively winding you “SHIT y/n, fuck i didn’t know it was you im so sorry” the girl stands quickly pulling you to your feet with her.

you stumble into the wall hands falling to your knees pick long forgotten as you suck air in threw your teeth winded for the second time this week it feels like there’s a running theme here. then you look up at your assailant and any air you’d managed to scrape into your lungs was knocked out of you again, amber. my amber, our amber. you blink up at her eyes wild, she was your and tara’s ex of a few months her parents had forced her hand as it “wasn’t normal” or whatever, your thoughts are interrupted as she throws herself into you “tara?” it’s a question you wrap your arms around her “safe, you hurt” you pull away quickly inspecting her “n-“ she’s cut off by chad letting out a yell, you see the brute before she does and you shove her aside diving for your pick in the road, he’s big. easily 6’4 and built he used to be in the biker gang but his leather jacket hangs off him in tatters sam swings her arm back and gets him right in the chest definitely breaking a few ribs by the sound of it she tries to pull her weapon out but it’s stuck he lets out a groan and swings her to the side following quickly as she tumbles to the floor, you make your move while he’s distracted hitting him in the back of the skull, he goes down but you don’t stop 1, 2, 3 hit after hit to his head, brains are smushed onto the pavement and your sprayed with blood as you feel hands on your waist pulling you back “he’s done he’s gone it’s ok” you breath again looking for sam thankfully she’s ok.

the 4 of you make it to the hunters shop with no further incidents sam opens the door for you nodding as you pass by her ok definitely not shaking the title of leader anytime soon better embrace it your eyes land on a hunting knife 7 inches long, Damascus steel with a leather bound hilt you pick it up and it fits your hand like it’s made for you, you smile as you clip it to your belt turning to the pistol rack to choose your gun, gotta pick something iconic you see a revolver not too dissimilar to the one rick in the walking dead has bingo. you silently thank your dad for the shooting lessons he gave you as a young teen clipping the holster to your belt you chuck all the guns and amo in your bag as you can then the gleam of metal catches your eye.

oh, now that, that is iconic overkill? sure but who’s gonna miss out on the chance to carry round a fucking sword you grin as you pick up the roman style sword “really?” you look up to see amber stood with a familiar glint of adoration in her eyes “you telling me i don’t look badass right now freeman?” you smirk as you situate the sword on your hip “im from the fucking roman times, unkillable if you will” she chuckles to herself “you dork” “yeah yeah whatever” she’s armed with a baseball bat and a shotgun good decision. you take a look at everyone, chad is playing with nunchucks and sam is stuffing knifes into her bag “it’s getting dark out, we need to head back ambs you coming with” you wince at the hopefulness in your voice “tar won’t want you out here alone” sam shoots you a knowing look and your eyes fall to the floor “yes. i’ve been in my house alone i was terrified” a pang of sympathy shoots threw you “your safe now, i promise” she holds out her pinky and you interlock it with yours “always?” “always”

oh fuck me. this is going to be the death of me.

#jenna ortega x reader #jenna ortega #tara carpenter #tara carpenter x reader #tara carpenter x yn #tara x reader x amber #amber freeman #amber freeman x reader #scream #zombie #zombie apocolypse au #amber x tara

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libraryofloveletters · 2 years

Text

Chapters From An Old Book

Sebastian Vettel x Fem!Reader

Warnings: alcohol and the consumption of, being cheesy, mentions of pregnancy and birth, britta being over seb’s nonsense, horner mention lmao, jenson being a little match maker, a trip down memory lane, mentions and references to sex, it’s giving anti ferrari for a slight second there, mark cameo + lance and sara cameo!, heart felt conversations, talks of his retirement.

Word Count: 6.8k

Author’s Note: once again, i'm writing a flashback fic and are we surprised ? no. also shut up i’m emotional over this 35 year old german guy. -- based on this ask - one

italics are flashbacks!

----

The door to the girls’ bedroom shut behind you quietly, you made your way down the stairs slowly so it wouldn't creak.

“Sebastian?” You called into the empty house, he was somewhere around here. He had been ‘nesting’ so to speak; trying to figure out what’s to come next.

This was a big decision and it had been weighing heavy on him.

You can hear the thumping coming from the basement and a groan, you follow the sound down to find your husband sitting on the floor with a bunch of storage containers and boxes.

"Hi honey,” he glances at you, patting the spot next to him.

You join him on the floor. “What’s all this?” You ask, peeking into the box in front of him. He pulls out a stack of photos, held together with a rubber band.

“Just going down memory lane.”

Sebastian wasn't one for looking to the past, good nor bad; so you knew something was up if you found him down here.

He was flipping through the pictures when you found a CD in the box. “What’s that?” He asks, you make your way over to put it into the DVD player you had in the basement.

“No clue, but we're about to find out.”

You hit play and return to Seb, the two of you looking at the screen. It’s a copy of his first win, Monza 2008; there’s a few scratches on the CD because it jumps a bit but you glance at your husband.

“That’s one of the greatest moments of my life.” He smiles, his eyes fixed on the screen.

“Why only one of the greatest? Why not the greatest?”

Sebastian turns to face you. “That might be the one that started it all, but I won four championships, and don't forget that I met you and we got married, and we have children. Those are the greatest moments of my life.”

You can’t help but smile, your hand cupping his jaw, “I love you.”

“I love you,” he smiles, leaning over to kiss you.

He flips through some of the photos in his hand when he stops on one of them, showing you. “Remember this ?”

The photo was of you and your best friend, Lia, squished in between Jenson and Sebastian outside of a club in Barcelona.

“How could I not remember that?” You laughed, taking the photo from him and you glanced down at the picture. “That was the night we met.”

Barcelona, 2009.

The club was packed; drivers, crews and other partygoers squished into the building. Your best friend, Lia, pulls you onto the dance floor with her when her favourite song comes on.

You weren't even supposed to be in Spain, you should be home studying for your midterms during your reading week. Lia’s parents were huge fans of F1 and her father’s side of the family came from money so they always attended races. Lia and Jenson met earlier in the season and hit it off, they weren’t officially a couple yet but they basically were.

So when Jenson invited her along to the Spanish GP, of course she brought you along. Not that Jenson minded either, he was always a ‘the more the merrier’ type of guy.

Jenson had done remarkably well that weekend, starting in pole and ended up winning the race with his teammate, Rubens, in second which gave Brawn a 1-2.

You were trying to cram in a little studying; how boring of you honestly.

Jenson and Lia had other plans, basically kidnapping you from your room and dragging you to the club with them to celebrate Jenson’s win.

Lia and you were on the dance floor for a bit before she dragged you back up to the booth they had, finding Jenson talking to an extremely blonde guy who clearly caught your attention and your friend noticed as much.

“That’s Sebastian,” she tells you, sitting next to you. You glance over at her, “okay so ?”

Lia laughs, nudging you with her shoulder. “I can see the look on your face, you’re into him.”

“Whatever.” You roll your eyes.

Across from you two stood the two drivers, Sebastian kept glancing in your direction and Jenson noticed. He gives the younger driver a smack on the arm, “don’t look at my girlfriend like that.” He teases.

Seb gives him a smile, taking a swing of his beer. “Who’s the girl with her?”

Jenson follows Seb’s line of sight, “that’s y/n, her best friend.” The Brawn driver puts two and two together; even if he was currently drunk, he wasn't stupid.

Sebastian was into you.

“C’mon!” Jenson shouts, grabbing Sebastian’s arm, “I’ll introduce you two.”

Sebastian tried to pull away from Jenson but it was too late. The two of them sitting next to you and Lia, you and Sebastian next to each other. “Hi,” you look over at him.

He smiles, “hi.”

“Y/n, this is Sebastian Vettel. Seb, this is y/n.” Jenson gives you two a quick introduction and he’s off to the dance floor with Lia, the two of them beyond drunk and shouting the lyrics to the song. You and Sebastian sit there for a while, looking around a bit before you end up locking eyes. “So uh, what team do you race for ?” You ask, you didn’t even know this man and Jenson left you with him. “If you do race.”

“I race with RedBull.” He says and you hum, nodding. “So you’re Mark’s teammate?”

“Most people know him as my teammate.”

“Oh, that’s cocky of you to say.”

“It’s true,” he says, flashing you a smile.

You laugh, shaking your head. “Whatever you say, Sebastian.”

The two of you ended up sitting there, chatting for the rest of the night over a half full bottle of tequila. When it finally finished, you went looking for Lia and Jenson.

No surprise that they were outside, making out. “Okay, break it up.” You push Jenson off of her. He rolls his eyes but quickly smiles when he realizes you were with Sebastian.

“Let’s take a picture!” Lia shouts, handing her camera off to some random guy standing outside the club. You get pulled by Lia into her side, Jenson to the left of her and Sebastian to your right with you and her squished in the middle.

“Smile!” The man calls from behind the camera.

All of you are messy, skin sweaty and sticky, there’s a weird orangish glow from the street light, a bunch of smiles and nothing but good memories behind the photo.

“I can’t believe how cocky you were.” You nudged him with your shoulder and Seb rolled his eyes, “I was not cocky!”

“Oh, they know him as my teammate,” you mocked your husband, earning a laugh from him.

Sebastian doesn’t take you on, he knows you get enjoyment out of teasing him. You had always been that way, even when you two had just started dating and kept things pretty low key, you still found ways to tease him.

“Oh my god, look!” You showed him a picture.

Sebastian's hands rested on your butt in the picture, the man holding you up against him with your legs wrapped around his waist and your arms over his shoulders as you kissed him.

It was taken by the Red Bull photographer at the time, just as Seb returned to the garage post championship win.

Abu Dhabi, 2010.

Lia and Jenson were still dating, you often joined her for races but you found yourself sneaking away from them. The nights when they offered for you to join them, you did one of two things.

One, you joined them and headed back to the hotel earlier than they would; or two, you didn’t go at all.

He had you wrapped around his finger and frankly, he was wrapped around yours.

You found yourself spending more and more time with the German driver, hanging out with him after races, the two of you hidden away in a hotel room; away from all the nosy reporters and flashing cameras.

Just the two of you in your little bubble.

Of course, you and Lia sat in the McLaren garage; Jenson and Lewis now teammates and Sebastian still at Red Bull.

It was the final lap of the final race of the season, you were standing next to Lia, her hand in yours as she searched out for Jenson. The two of you followed out the mechanics and pit crew, climbing up on the fence to watch them cross the line.

While they were all looking for the silver and red car, your eyes were fixed on one car; the navy blue car that just crossed the line.

Your heart was pounding out of your chest, the screams and cheers of the RedBull crew just one garage over warmed your heart. Proud didn’t even begin to explain how you felt.

The sound of Lia screaming pulled you back to reality.

Lewis crossed just behind Sebastian and Jenson followed which gave McLaren a double podium alongside the race winner. Lia pulled you down with her to watch the podium, Jenson blew her a kiss when he stepped up onto the podium and you looked over at your best friend, the girl watched her boyfriend like a love sick puppy; it was adorable.

You were almost certain you had the same look on your face. You wiped away the tears you felt on your cheeks when you stared up at Sebastian, the smile on his face whilst the German anthem played was like none other. You were proud, he was proud, the team was proud.

Proud as an understatement.

Sebastian broke records tonight.

He is the world champion.

He’s also now covered in champagne and being hoisted up onto the shoulders of the two McLaren drivers as he does his signature one, have a laugh as he looks out into the thousands of people cheering him on.

Nothing beats that feeling in that moment.

Everyone was making their way back to the garages, attempting to pack up as quickly as possible so the party could begin. Lia had run off to congratulate Jenson, you followed behind her and gave him a quick hug. You stopped and congratulated Lewis as well before you stepped out.

Despite it being nighttime, the heat sticked to your skin as you wandered over to the RedBull garage. You peeked in, the place packed with everyone who worked for them.

“Y/n!” Mark shouts, hugging you when he sees you. “Hi!” You smiled, hugging the Aussie back.

“I know you’re not here for me,” he laughs, an arm over your shoulder before he points towards the middle of the crowd. “He’s over there.”

You smile at Mark, thanking him as you step through the crowd to find the new world champion.

Sebastian’s back was turned to you, race suit hanging off his hips and you can see how his fireproofs were soaked; champagne or sweat? Probably both.

You touched his back softly and he turned, he recognized your touch faster than you expected. "You,” he smiles when he turns to face you. His arms wrapping around you. Sebastian picks you up, your legs wrapping around his waist and the stickiness of his fireproofs cling to your bare legs.

“I’m so proud of you,” you tell him, a hand on his cheek as you smile at the man.

“Thank you,” Sebastian tells you, holding you in the middle of the Red Bull garage like you two were the only two in there. The cameras are constantly flashing and neither of you care, Sebastian’s hands rest on your ass as he holds you against him and you lean into your boyfriend.

He kisses you; it catches you off guard.

Not that he kissed you but that he kissed you there.

Publicly announcing to the world that you two were a thing.

He lets you down, his arms still wrapped around you and yours wrapped around him. “Champion of the world.” You laughed in disbelief.

You were 100% sure in Sebastian and his skills but it felt so unreal.

He nods, smiling. “Champion of the world.” He says, leaning down to kiss you again.

“I never heard the end of it, they teased me all the time.” Sebastian complained and you laughed. “I know, I told them to tease you.”

The man rolls his eyes, something he did often in your presence. Not that either of you took it seriously. You were flipping through a few more pictures from another box while Sebastian re-stacked those into the box they came from when you found another picture.

You show your husband, “I always wondered where that shirt went.” He says, eyeing the RedBull polo you had on in the picture.

“Forget the shirt, do you remember how pissed Britta was?”

Sebastian laughs, “yeah but it was worth it.”

He pulls you into him, kissing you once more. The picture falls beside the two of you onto the floor as he pulls you onto his lap. His hands sliding down to rest on your ass, mimicking the picture on the floor.

Brazil, 2011.

Interagos.

The track where magic happens as you had deemed it.

It's the final race of the season and it’s race day.

Sebastian wanted to head in extra early, he needed to go over race strategies with his team and you were trying to get him to relax. You two are holding hands as you walk in, cameras flashing and people shouting for him as you pass by. Seb has got on his usual red Bull polo and a pair of shorts, sunglasses pushed up in messy hair. You've got on a little black skirt and one of his RedBull polos with his name on the back and number one in the middle.

“Seb, baby. Don’t stress yourself out. Your hair will fall out and you’ll look like an egg, but not even a cute one.” You joked and it fell flat.

Your boyfriend looked worried and you weren’t even sure why. He stopped you in the middle of the paddock, turning to face you. “Do you think I'll win?”

“Sebastian, I know you’ll win. Do you need me to tell you the stats so you stop asking?” You laughed but his eyes met yours and you sigh softly; there’s security in numbers.

“You’re currently at 374 points going into this race. Jenson is behind you with 255 points. Regardless of if you win or if you DNF, you will be world champion this year. Don’t stress yourself out.” Your hand rests on your chest, looking at him.

Sebastian nods, sighing. It’s almost like you can see the tension on his shoulders. “One hundred and nineteen.” You say to him and Seb’s brows furrow.

“119 -- that’s how many points you have over Jenson.”

Your boyfriend smiles, pulling you into him. His hand rests on your ass and you just know the stance is like tossing blood to sharks, you can hear the shouting and feel the cameras flashing behind you. Sebastian kisses you, “thank you.” He mumbles against your lips and pulls you a little closer.

This isn’t the first time they’ve caught you and him like this. You had sorta become the IT couple; that’s what happens when you’re dating the world champion. If the photographers weren’t hassling you two, it was Lewis and Jenson with their girlfriends.

You and Sebastian had become quite the staple couple in the paddock, always together. Not that you clung to him, Seb always hid from press duty by hanging out with you.

He’d stop what he was doing to pass by just to get a kiss from you.

Sebastian was cheesy like that.

The hand on your ass pulls you even close, the skirt hitching up a little too high to be suitable for work. Nothing except for your thigh was exposed but imagine the scandal it would be.

Or it had already become.

You and Sebastian didn’t have a care in the world, he was a shoo in for the championship and he did win that year. Despite his teammate, Mark, winning the race, Sebastian was far enough ahead that he won regardless.

It wasn't until after that Britta caught wind of the scandalous picture going around.

She gave you both a lecture about behaving yourselves in the paddock to which Seb just laughed and you nodded along, trying to listen to the woman but between all the championship press, the picture got lost and all was well in the world.

You get up and Seb’s eyes follow you, “where are you going?” He asks, watching as you sit in front of a storage container you pulled out of the closet.

“I think I still have that shirt, I know I saw it somewhere.”

Digging through the container, you find the shirt and pull it out. You hold it up against yourself. “I don’t think it’ll fit now but I knew I had it.”

Sebastian smiles and you two tumble through a few more boxes on your own. You reach into the container and pull out something that feels like papers. You thought it was more photos you hadn't found albums for but turns out it wasn’t.

In fact, it was a manual for a toaster oven.

“What is that?” Sebastian calls, you toss it over to him.

“A toaster oven?” He reads the pamphlet, flipping through it. “Why do we have this?”

You try to think of how that ended up in the storage container and it finally pops into your head.

Monaco, 2012.

"Where should I put this?” He asks, carrying in a box into the kitchen.

You and Sebastian have just moved into your first place together. It was day 6 of unpacking because you two kept stopping because you were either too lazy and couldn’t be bothered or Sebastian’s wandering hands caused you two to end up in bed.

Sebastian holds up the box to show you, “that’s not mine.” You tell him, brows furrowed.

“It’s not mine either.” He says, “why would I own..” he peeks over the box to read it, “a toaster oven?”

You notice an envelope taped onto the side when Seb puts the box down. You pull it off and open the envelope. There’s a card with a note inside of it.

‘Woman at the store said this was a good thing to get, so enjoy it!

xo, JB and Lia.’

“That’s the most random thing I've ever gotten as a gift. We already have a toaster,” you tell Sebastian, showing him the card.

Sebastian was already tinkering with it, plugging it in as he unwrapped the plastic around it. “How does it work?” He asks you, opening the little door.

“I’d assume it's just a toaster but like.. oven style? I don’t know, let me see.” You check through the box for a pamphlet.

Sebastian doesn’t wait. He sticks a bagel in there and hits 4 different settings whilst you read over the pages of the pamphlet. The toaster oven starts to smoke and the kitchen smells like burnt bread.

“Seb!” You laughed, opening the window whilst fanning the thing. Sebastian unplug the toaster oven and opens the little door. The bagel was now black and hard like a rock.

He holds up the bagel, it clicks in his brain that it’s hot and the circular piece of bread falls to the floor. “Hot!” He flings his hand around and you chuckle, grabbing his hand and blowing on it before kissing it.

“Better?” You ask and the man puckers up, leaning towards you. Rolling your eyes, you give your boyfriend a kiss.

Sebastian smiles, satisfied. “Better, though I don’t think we can eat the bagel.”

“Jense and Lia sent us a toaster oven when we moved into our first place,” you remind him. His mouth forms an O, tossing the manual into another box as you rejoin him by his side. You lean into your husband’s side, his arm comes around to rest over your shoulders.

You were a picture hoarder, you couldn't bring yourself to let go of photos so they all sat in your basement. There had to be thousands of pictures spanning over the last 15 years.

There’s a few stacks of pictures from races and what not, some from his championships and from other races as well. From your vacations to the kids’ first day at school, family trips, random pictures taken throughout the house. Not all of them were taken by you. The photographers always gave you a big stack of pictures at the end of the season so you kept them all. You couldn’t bare to sort through them and get rid of some.

Sebastian was always looking forward but you loved to look back.

There’s one in particular that caught his eye. “I didn’t know you had a copy of this,” he shows you the picture. You had the same one framed in your bedroom; Sebastian was leant over and kissing your stomach, your hand on his cheek and you smiling at him.

Germany, 2013.

Sebastian’s home race, you were beyond nervous. Not like it was any different than before.

His focus was on winning.

It always was.

“Are you okay?” Mark rests a hand on his back when he finds you at the back of the garage. You glance over your shoulder, looking back at the man. “Fine, just nervous.”

“He’ll be fine. Well he won’t be.. when I win.” Mark says and you laugh, “okay Mark, whatever you say.”

Sebastian was walking back into the garage when Mark lets you go, Seb eyeing the two of you for a moment as you walk over. Your boyfriend wraps an arm around you, pulling you against him. He was looking behind you and at Mark and you smack his arm softly, the man looking at you now.

“What?” He asks.

“I have to tell you something.” You whisper to him and Seb pulls you off to the side of the garage, the two of you hidden away by a wall. Sebastian looks at you, “what’s up baby?”

You had to laugh at the phrase, the word making you giggle.

Seb eyes you, “what?”

You blurt it out, there was no other way to say it. “I’m pregnant.”

Sebastian was quiet, your eyes fixed on his face, trying to read for any sort of reaction. Finally he says, “you are?”

You nod, looking at him, still waiting for a reaction. Sebastian picks you up and spins you around, your arms over his shoulders as you laugh, the man putting you down before pulling you into a kiss.

A hand rests on his cheek, “I take it that you’re happy ?”

“So happy.” He says, his forehead rests against yours.

It was still early, you decide to keep it to yourself for the time being. You were only a month along so there was no need to make a big deal yet. “Be careful, okay?” You tell him, kissing him.

“Always.”

You give him a hug, wishing him good luck before he walks off to get ready for his race. You were settling in beside the mechanics when Britta came looking for you. “What’s wrong?” You ask her, she shakes her head.

“Nothing, he’s asking for you.”

You follow her to the grid, your boyfriend already in the car when you got there. You bend down, looking at your boyfriend. “What’s wrong love?”

Sebastian pats the side of his helmet, they were minutes away from lights out and your boyfriend was asking for a kiss. You laugh, leaning over to kiss the side of his helmet where his cheek would be.

There’s a little red kiss mark on the side of his helmet and you pat his head, Seb reaches up and gives your hand a squeeze before letting you go.

You and Britta get back to the garage just in time for lights out. Lewis was on pole with Seb in P2 and Mark in P3. Your fingers were crossed hoping your boyfriend can fight his way into P1 over the course of the 60 laps.

Within the first corner, Sebastian was able to gain the lead and hold it for the entirety of the race, coming across the checkered flag victorious.

Everyone was pushed up against the gate, looking up at the German driver on the podium, the smile on his face shines brighter than the sun; nothing beats winning his home race.

The man winked at you, tipping the champagne bottle in the direction of the team before taking a swing.

Once everyone returned to the garage, your boyfriend found you the moment he got back. You were by the pit wall, talking to Christian when he hugged you from behind, swinging you around. His skin sticky and wet, the race suit soaking the back of your shirt.

“Congratulations, baby.” You smile, turning to face him when he puts you down.

At this point, you two are in the middle of the pit line, his hands resting on your lower back when he leans down and kisses your stomach.

Of course, the photographers around were eating this up. Sebastian kissing your stomach points towards one thing and one thing only; you were expecting.

“Ted said that’s when he knew we were in love.” You tell Seb, looking at the picture.

Sebastian laughs, “he told me the same thing. Said before was puppy love and this was real. Having a kid always makes things real.”

“Oh so we were fake before?” You joked and Seb rolled his eyes, “that was a terrible joke.”

“You’re terrible at jokes, you started telling dad jokes before I was even pregnant!”

“Whatever.”

There’s a few more pictures from that race in the stack, you come across a picture of him waiting in the garage after practice. You studied the pattern on the matte black helmet that sat on top of his head like a mushroom from Mario. The gold ran along the sides and the top, the RedBull insignia stood out against the black and gold in a shimmery red. There’s a single red and black stripe across the top, blended in with the gold to make up the German flag; something Sebastian almost always worked into his helmet designs.

“Do you still have this one?” You ask your husband, showing him the picture.

Sebastian gets up and pulls a few more boxes from the closet you had, opening a few before he pulls out a large dust bag, you see the smile on his face when he peeks into the bag.

He pulls out the black and gold helmet, showing you. “It’s one of my favourites.”

“Mine too.”

Sebastian sets the helmet down on the table, looking back into the box before pulling out something. “Is this yours?” He holds up the blue dress, holding it against himself.

“Looks like it’d fit you.” You smile, earning a chuckle from him. “Yeah, says maternity on the tag.”

You try to think back to when you would have worn that and it pops into your head, making you laugh out loud.

“What?” Your husband looks at you, confused as to why you’re laughing by yourself.

You take a breath, regaining your composure. “We went to headquarters after the last race, when I was pregnant with Meg, remember ?”

Sebastian tosses the dress at you. “You gave me a heart attack that day.”

“Please, I was preparing you for fatherhood.”

England 2013.

Today you were officially 26 weeks pregnant, which was roughly around 6 months. You were under strict orders by your OB that you are not allowed to fly anymore. So the flight back to England would be the last for the next little while.

You had begged your OB to give you the clearance to join Sebastian for the last race of the season and she did; you joined him for the Brazilian Grand Prix and you watched him win his 4th championship.

Nothing made you more proud than seeing him up on the podium.

After the stop in England for a few days, Sebastian would be driving you two to Paris for a few days of relaxation before he drives you two back to Monaco to wait for the birth of your baby girl. It was a seven hour drive to Paris from England and then another nine hours from Paris to Monaco. Your mother-in-law and OB tried to talk you into staying in England and having the baby there but you were dead set on having the baby in Monaco like intended.

Sebastian gave in to you because you had him wrapped around your finger.

He held your hand as you two walked into the building, they were doing a little thing to thank the team and to show off the new trophies they brought home over the season.

“Oh good, you’re here!” Britta calls, walking over.

“Sebastian, you’re needed in the head office. Y/n, come with me.” The woman was already pulling you away from your boyfriend and you glanced over your shoulder at him, he just smiled and waved you off.

The team had put together a little basket for the baby; Well wishes attached to the baby clothing in the basket. Shirts, shorts, sweaters, shoes, hats, all in various sizes and the bull embroidered into all of them with different variations of the RedBull logo.

You thank the team, walking around the building with Britta for a bit as she showed you some of the things in the front foyer. You were drinking some water and a bit of it spilt on the floor when you cracked the bottle open, the water splattered on your dress but you didn’t bother drying it out because it was water, it’d dry itself out.

“Babe!” Sebastian shouts, running towards you and you turn to face the man, confused as to why he looked so full of concern. Christian was right behind him when Sebastian reached for you and you were really confused now.

You glance between the men and Britta, “what?”

“Did you water break? Do we need to go?” Sebastian asks, looking down at the floor and your dress.

You follow his line of sight and put two and two together. “Oh!” You laughed, Britta realized what he was freaked about and started laughing.

“I spilled some water, it’s fine.” You wave him off. Christian peeks out from behind Seb, “so just to be clear, you’re not in labour ?”

“No, I'm not.” You laughed.

“God, both you and Christian were mortified, so worried that you didn’t let me do anything for the rest of the afternoon.”

“We were just worried,” he pushes some of the boxes into the closet again. “It's possible to go into labour that early.” He tells you.

“Possible but unlikely.”

Sebastian rolled his eyes, “that’s why Christian said you aren’t allowed to visit while you’re pregnant anymore.”

You huff, arms folded across your chest as you looked at the man across the room. “I didn’t get pregnant for the rest of your RedBull days though.”

“Surely you remember the next time you got pregnant,” he says, making his way over to you. The twinkle of mischief in his eyes says that he fully well remembers how you ended up pregnant the second time.

“Yeah, whose fault was that?”

Sebastian drops down next to you, pulling you by the chin to look at him. “Mine.”

“Glad you know.”

Hawaii, 2018.

Things were good in terms of the championship. Sebastian was second in the standings going into the break and you knew he needed a break, physically and mentally.

He had a habit of being hard on himself but he was always laughing and smiling, no one ever noticed that something was off. You were his wife, you knew him like the back of your hand. You talked him into taking a little vacation, just the two of you.

Megan was with your parents while you two spent a week in the sun, trying to relax and decompress.

It had been the last three days just rolling around in bed. Since you two have checked in, you've barely left the room to eat, even then it was just going to the door to get the room service. It had been nothing but rolling around in bed, room service and piles of clothes scattered throughout the room; you weren't even sure why you bothered to get dressed at this point.

“C’mon,” you groan, pulling your husband by the arm. “Let’s go to the beach.”

Sebastian sits up, pulling you to him. You’re standing between his legs as you look down at him and you feel his hands on your ass, pinching the exposed flesh. The little green bikini didn’t cover much, not that he minded.

“We only have a few days left, we should do something other than have sex, Sebastian.”

“Why? The sex is great.” He pats your ass, making you roll your eyes.

“Sebastian, c’mon. Just a few hours.” You pull away from him but he grabs your hand, and you’re right back where you were moments ago.

“Once more,” he mumbles against your stomach, kissing up to your chest. Your hand tangled in his short blonde curls as you pulled his head back so you could look at him. “Then we can go.” He says, smiling.

He was so handsome, he knew you were wrapped around his finger.

“Fine,” you sigh, letting him pull you into bed again, his hands making quick work of the strings on your bikini. “Just once more.” You tell him, your tone is serious.

Sebastian nods, “just once more.”

“It’s late,” you say, getting up. “We’ll clean up tomorrow.” Your hand stretches out for his and he gets up, the two of you making your way up the stairs and onto the first floor before making one more check of the house, double checking all the doors and windows are locked.

Sebastian’s voice catches your attention as you head up the stairs towards the bedroom.

“I wish I could’ve done more, with Ferrari.” He says, following you up the stairs and you hum.

You knew your husband’s feelings towards the red team, it broke your heart to think about how they made him feel about himself.

Like he had failed.

“If I had won a championship with them-” “You have four, Seb.” You remind him before he gets the chance to spiral.

“I know,” he sighs, “I had set out to win one with him and I feel like I failed. I should have won.”

“You didn’t fail, Sebastian.” You turn on the step to face your husband, holding his face in your hands. “They failed you if anything.”

The sadness on his face makes you want to light a match and toss it at the factory but you hold back the urge to say the bitter words that come to mind.

“You are a four time world champion, Sebastian. Things don’t always go to plan but you have a legacy, you left behind a mark that will always be there, regardless of how it got there. I will always support you and always love you but don’t you dare, even for a second, think you failed; because you never did.”

Sebastian kisses the palm of your hand, “thank you, for everything.”

“No need to thank me, baby.”

You two make it upstairs and Seb checks on the girls while you head into the bedroom. You were changing when your eyes caught the green frame hung on your bedroom wall.

There’s a collage of pictures in the large green frame from the first official Aston Martin pre season photoshoot.

England, 2020.

You watched as your husband posed for the camera, both you and Britta holding back laughter from how uncomfortable Sebastian looked.

He was sitting on a chair in his race suit, foot propped up on a tyre. “Mrs. V,” the photographer calls, “go and join him.”

You shook your head, “no, no. I’m good.”

“Oh c’mon. I’ll send these to you plus, I've got some time to kill until Lance gets here.” He nods towards Seb and you give in after Britta nudges you off to him.

How ironic that you just so happened to wear a green sundress that morning.

“Where do you want me?” You ask, looking at the photographer. “Uh - try the tyre. If it's uncomfortable, we can move.”

Sebastian moves his foot and you sit on the tyre, fixing your dress before your husband leans in his seat to rest his chin on your shoulder, your hand coming up to rest on his cheek. The two of you are smiling and the camera flashes a few times.

“Give us a kiss!” The photographer shouts and you laugh, Sebastian shakes his head. “Come on! It’ll be cute!” He shouts from behind the camera and Sebastian looks at you, waiting for your go ahead. You smile and he takes it a yes.

He pulls the hat he had on, off before leaning in to kiss you but at the last second, just as his lips meet yours, he holds the hat up and blocks the two of you from the camera.

You can hear the photographer laugh and your eyes meet Seb’s. “I love you.” He whispers. “I love you.” You smile.

Lance and Sara arrive a few moments later and the photographer gets a few group shots. You and Sara lean over your boyfriend and husband’s shoulders, one of the 4 of you standing together, and he even manages to talk Lance and Seb into giving you two their race suits for a photo, posing back to back, Charlie’s angels’ style.

Seb’s hand touches your back as he walks in and you smile at him, joining him in bed. He looks over at you when he gets into bed with you.

“Do you think I did the right thing?” He asks, ever so cryptic.

“What do you mean?”

“Retirement; did I do the right thing?”

Sebastian had announced his retirement the weekend before summer break and you supported him 110%. You knew he had been thinking about it since the end of his Ferrari days.

“You’re the only one that can answer that question.” You tell him and he hums, looking at you. You take that as your chance to go on; “but I know you love this sport. It’s given you so much and you put everything into becoming the driver you are and have always been. You are formidable, my love.”

Sebastian lived and breathed racing. It was in his blood, his DNA; it’s the way he was wired. It meant everything to him and you knew that.

Anything he wanted to do, anything he set his mind to, you stood by him and supported him as much as humanly possible.

The retirement decision was weighing heavy on him. You knew his feelings once he joined Aston Martin. He loved the team, they gave him his happiness back, he was at ease.

Sebastian had always looked towards the future then looking back and unlike you, he knew when it was time to go. The time was now.

He felt like he needed to step aside to make room for other drivers, he had gotten 15 amazing years from racing, and while it was his whole life, life also keeps moving regardless of what you want. There was more than just racing in his life now; he had a wife, kids, a family. They deserved the love and focus he put into racing.

There was more to life, and that he was missing out on you and kids’ lives by being away so much.

Of course he will always be a champion to you, and to millions of people out there.

“It’s time.” He says softly, reaching over to hold your hand. “My life is here.”

You smile, nodding. Sebastian chuckles, his own internal dialogue making him laugh. “Maybe I'll make a comeback in a few years, when I get bored; like Michael or Kimi, or Fernando.”

“Maybe you could take Christian up on that offer to rejoin RedBull hm?” You laughed.

“You'll be the first one I talk to if I do it.” He says, smiling at you.

Nudging him with your shoulder, you say; “the car’s a fricking rocket ship, you’d definitely win number five.”

“Five championships for driver number five does have a nice ring, doesn’t it?”

“It does.” You smile, leaning over to kiss your husband.

----

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galaxycunt · 11 months

Text

You Turned Me Inside Out

4k ish fluff and angst

Leave a comment if you wanna!

You’ve sent the divorce papers with a news coo until they became tired of you. Still, you persisted. You figured Buggy wasn’t dead yet, you would’ve been told right?

Your think back on that quick courthouse wedding, you were seven months pregnant, Buggy even bribed a clerk to keep quiet. Wouldn’t do a husband any good to be arrested on his wedding day.

You thought it was romantic at the time, even if your first marriage was officiated by your first mate. Less complicated that way. Maybe that was a bad omen, he was good for awhile. He left you both, even a guy with a bad childhood didn’t see anything wrong with giving it to his own. Even left your daughter with his nose.

You kept your bar, plenty of sailors talked shit about marrying you. The townsfolk pitied you, you decide awhile ago to say you were widowed. Less humiliating that way. Even if he was dead, Buggy never was letting you go anyway. Your baby had your smile, so she smiled for the both of you these days.

The baker’s daughter watched her awhile you ran the bar. It was an easy enough arrangement, you always adjusted to new plans on the fly.

And that’s when you see him.

“Cabaji,” you yell across the crowded bar, “unless you’re waving a white flag, get the fuck out!”

Your loyal patrons readied themselves for a fight, who needed a ship when you had drunks?

”Look! Sorry! The captain wanted me to check the place out!”

You hop over the bar, marching straight to him, “where is he?”

He obviously didn’t enjoy this task, you always liked Cabaji.

”On the ship.”

”Folks, I’ll be right back. I got kids upstairs, don’t start a riot. Alright?”

A rousing ‘aye, aye!’ surrounds you both, you may have never had a high bounty like your husband, but you had that.

Cabaji leads you to the Big Top, your nerves gnawing at you. You’re worried you’ll kill him, his crew then turning to kill you. Leaving your daughter all alone.

You shook those thoughts out, settling in the pit of your stomach.

Buggy was waiting for news in his cabin, and Cabaji reluctantly leaves you to knock on his door alone.

He swung the door open, like he was waiting for that knock. Only to be faced with you.

”You…it’s really you.”

“You have a fucking wife, remember?”

His shoulders drop, “I…I know.”

You slap him, and he takes it with grace. You decide one isn’t good enough, slapping him a few more times.

”Glad that wasn’t a punch,” he tries to joke.

”I’m a better person now, for my daughter.”

”How is she?”

”You don’t get to ask that.”

He gives a nod, “how are you?”

”Sign those papers, I’ll be much better.”

”I can’t do that.”

You search his face, Buggy looking like a kicked puppy pissed you off more than anything else.

”You left us, just let me go.”

”I have plenty of excuses, none you wanna hear.”

You stare into his eyes, hoping he would combust. You damn your heart, because you want to hear it all. You spit on the floor turning to leave, Buggy following you back to your bar. You’ll feel better once it was on your turf.

The patrons watch him over their mugs, you motion Buggy to sit on an empty stool. You ignore him for most of the night, thinking if you should go get your baby. Buggy looked pathetic, staring at his beer. You had a soft spot, begging to be acknowledged.

With a sigh, you go upstairs to let your sitter go home. Your baby looks too much like him, especially when she cries. You love your kid, you do, you just wish she wasn’t his.

”Here,” you say, “you run off with her I will kill you.”

She’s a lot bigger than he remembers, it had been 4 months since he held her last. Buggy knits his brows and frowns, holding her tight. The man sitting next to him coos at your child, making him beam with pride.

You should’ve known that’s all it would take, Buggy loved the spotlight. At least the little red nose was cuter on her, he kissed it enough to make her giggle. Being a dad was easy, he just got to sit there and make her happy.

You hate him for this. You consider killing him now anyway.

“Out with it then, another fucking bird try to eat you?”

”Do we gotta talk here?”

You look around, a few people are pretending to not eavesdrop. It gives you some courage, that you’re totally in the right here.

”Yup.”

He sighs, “damn it. Fuck, okay fine. I was nervous. I was tired. I needed a fucking break.”

”Oh, this is incredible. Please keep going.”

He groans, “I was gonna only be gone a few days. Retire on a high note.”

”Captain Buggy retiring? I liked the bird story better.”

He looks down at your daughter, his finger being gummed to death. He lets her have the whole hand, rubbing his face with a forearm.

”Okay, so not a permanent one. But long enough! You’ve done it, you know the deal.”

“I didn’t have a kid yet.”

He whispers your name, “I love you. I love her. I’m here now, that’s gotta count for something.”

”Do you even remember her god damn name?”

He looks down at her, “Marcela. She has my heart on a string, you both do.”

You should’ve known better, pirates didn’t get tied down. You both knew a baby’s place wasn’t a ship, and his wasn’t a nursery.

”Well, you saw her, guess you’ll see her again when she’s 18.”

“Oh come on, barkeep, I haven’t seen my own kids in years. Man’s gotta work.”

”Shut the fuck up, Benny. Your wife hates it and so do I. All wives do!”

You point at Buggy, “not all husbands have detachable dicks. Should’ve cut that off while I had the chance.”

”You’re a real bitch, you know that?”

You smile, “you married this bitch. Guess you’re gonna have to sign those papers.”

He grumbled, reattaching his hand so he could hold the baby better before slamming his beer. Buggy continued to glare at you the whole night, to his credit, he would stumble upstairs occasionally to change her and hand her off to you to get fed.

At closing time, you found them both asleep in the corner. You could cry, seeing her peacefully in his arms. He should’ve stayed, he was cruel and nothing would let you forget.

You whisper in his ear, “Buggy. Let me take her up.”

He yawns, gently passing Marcela to you. She only stirs a little bit, and you hope she’s at the point where she’s finally sleeping through the night.

Buggy notices how tired you are, “permission to come aboard?”

You shake your head, “no.”

”I’m your husband.”

”You didn’t care about that detail until now.”

He balls his fist, “I never forgot.”

You shush him, shooing him away as you take her upstairs. He follows you anyway, and you remember the rifle above your bed. You’ll use it if you have to.

You put Marcela to bed, Buggy right beside you, regarding her like she was made of glass. He let out a breath you didn’t know he was holding. A shy smile you could see in the dim light.

”I’ll walk you out,” you urge.

He doesn’t put up a fight, only lingering at the front door.

“Goodnight, Buggy.”

”Wait, can I come back?”

”Why would I want that?”

“Oh, come on! I’m not the first fucking pirate having to go do their thing! Not like she’s too old to even remember me!”

”Fuck off Buggy. You made a fool of me more than once.”

He frowns, “baby I’m sorry.”

You shove him outside, slamming the door and locking it tight. He bangs on the door a few times, shouting and cursing.

“Don’t wake up the baby!”

He stops, storming off in a huff. You figure this was going to be a yearly occurrence, more if you were lucky. You wonder briefly if you should take up one of those regulars on their offer of marriage, if only to make Buggy pissed off.

Buggy was persistent, showing up early the next day. You had stepped outside with your baby to walk around only to be surprised by him, a punch to his gut for his trouble.

”God! Morning to you too.”

”Buggy, I’m surprised you’re still in town.”

You can’t stand the sight of him, but he does look good without his make up. The morning sun bathes him in a heavenly light, picking up stray strands of hair like a halo. He looks at you like he was thinking the same thing. He smiled the way he always did with you, his gaze soft as he stepped in your personal space.

Buggy knew how to turn on the charm like a switch. You didn’t want this Buggy, you married the real one.

”How’d you sleep?”

”Fine, been doing fine for months I’ll have you know.”

He grazes your shoulder with his as you kept walking, “where you headed?”

”The beach. She likes waves.”

A futile attempt to shake him off, he spent time on the ocean even with his weakness. Buggy didn’t show any hesitation in following you, eyes glued to the carriage in front of you. You figure it’s an ego thing, she looks like his little clone.

He helps set down a blanket with all her toys, laying on his belly with her as he she coos. You couldn’t fold this easy, turning away to count the ships docked in the distance. It was easier when it was just you and him, sleeping together before he took off for who knows how long. You really should’ve married someone else, he knew how to sell himself too well.

“Does she get, uh well, do people,” he motions to his nose.

”Oh no, I think it’s cute on her. Don’t think anyone really wants to insult a baby in front of me.”

He smiles, “glad to hear it. You let me know if I need to knock some heads. Both of you.”

He lays on his back, dangling Marcela above him.

”Stop that.”

”Oh, she’s fine. She’s laughing, I got her.”

”No,” you're on the brink of tears, “stop acting like you give a shit. Just get outta here. I’ll marry the baker, he’s bonafide.”

”Bonafide? Ain’t I bonafide?”

You shake your head and he huffs.

”I give a shit. I actually take my vows seriously.”

”You left, couldn’t be fucked to be a real husband and father.”

Buggy sets the baby back down, turning to look at you. You swat his hands away, regretting that you been humoring him this long.

”If I knew letting you keep my balls would settle things, I would’ve,” he grumbles.

”Yeah, it would actually! I need a new stress ball!”

Buggy grits his teeth, “you’re the only one in the East Blue who’d even think about saying those things to Buggy The Clown.”

It was getting childish, kicking sand at him, “I’m not your god damn fan. I say whatever the fuck I want.”

”At least I’m not a fucking baker.”

”Yeah, if your baking is like your cooking, you’d be lousy at it!”

He laughs, a long hearty one. He picks up your baby, walking her to the edge of the shore, letting her toes dip into the warm waters. You’re hiding a smile, fatherhood looks good on him. And he knows it, laughing in your face like that. You suppose you couldn’t blame the guy, Roger was the last person you’d expect to teach a kid manners.

”Hey,” he calls out, “you pack a lunch?”

You nod, and he gives a thumbs down, “I’m taking my girls out. Get some good grub.”

You really should decline, “there’s a cafe on the pier. Great pancakes.”

”Let’s go then!”

So you spend the day with him, Buggy was mostly hush about what he was out doing. Out of shame or boredom, you couldn’t tell. Buggy even helps you stock the bar, shooing away your extra help when she arrived. You let it happen, and you’re not sure why.

Maybe if he wants to spend the night, you’ll lock his hands and feet away so he can’t escape this time. You look at his hands, thinking about the last time you let him hold you.

God, are you that weak? Are you really falling for your husband again?

Funny joke, he should hire you as a writer.

”What’s up, baby?”

”I think you should stay the night.”

His face lights up, “great. That’s so great.”

He detaches from his legs, letting his torso twirl around with you and Marcela in his arms. You let out a gasp as he did it, holding onto him tighter.

The first time he did this to you, you felt like a fairy.

“You’re so cute when you blush.”

”I’m not blushing.”

He tilts your chin up, “you are.”

You shake your head, finishing up your tasks. It had been hell since you saw Buggy last, your heart yearned for him every day. Pirates aren’t used to being so open with their feelings, you wonder if he meant it when he wanted to keep your hair in a locket. You sent it with a letter, he only thanked you.

”Buggy, did you even miss me?”

He was changing a diaper, nearly dropping the pin, “of course I did.”

”Are you lying?”

His hand flies to you for a moment, stroking your hair. You shove it away, and he recalled it back to pop into place.

”I could never lie to you.”

”You just leave out the truth.”

He looks as heartbroken as you, “I’m not a good man, I’m sorry I gave you that impression. But I love you, I love our family.”

You only nod, ignoring him the rest of the night. The patrons don’t flirt with you, now that your daughter was being held by her father in the corner of the bar. Someone puts on the record player, a romantic song wafting in the air. Didn’t fit for a sailor bar, catchy enough that they sing anyway.

”May I have this dance?”

”They'll have my head if drinks ain’t poured fast enough.”

”Let ‘em,” he whispers in your ear.

Two hands are still holding Marcela in her seat, his forearms wrap around you as he swings you around. You always loved a man who can dance, and as expected Buggy was a showy dancer. Even without fingers he dipped and twirled you, lifting you up and over.

You collapse into his chest once the song was over, you’re guided back to the bar so you could pour drinks. A smile doesn’t leave either of your faces.

”Sir, your girl is the best thing that could ever happen to us salty dogs!”

”Don’t I fucking know it,” he beams.

There’s a twinkle in his eye as he returns with your baby, hopping on the counter he gives a sharp whistle.

”Alright listen up, today’s my little girl’s half birthday. A round on me!”

The loud commotion doesn’t bother her too much, Buggy still making sure to cover her ears as he grins at you. In this moment, you’re completely charmed. You’re too afraid to kiss him, you know you shouldn’t kiss him. But he grins and your daughter laughs and maybe, just maybe it’s okay.

He offers to close the bar, and you insist to count the money. He didn’t leave you high and dry last time, but you weren’t that stupid.

Soon he trudges upstairs, kicking his boots off. He sits on the bed only a moment, before shaking his head.

”Do you want me here? Or should I sleep on the couch?”

”Couch.”

”Okay. Hey uh, can I kiss you?”

”What?”

”Just the cheek? The nose? A hand?”

You must be tired, “kiss me like a man, Buggy.”

He kisses you slowly, treading carefully until you push him away. He clears his throat, and sleeps on the couch as promised.

You wake up before him, realizing he let you sleep the whole night. You always liked watching him, it was rare that you were up before him. Buggy was like some strange version of an angel, those long lashes fluttering, chiseled jaw and lovely lips.

You crawl closer to him, his breath hot on your face. You kiss his nose, if you could even call that. It’s so light, there was no way he could feel it.

His eyes flutter open anyway, “well, hello.”

”Thanks for letting me sleep.”

”Go back to bed, she’s still sleeping too.”

Your heart goes soft, come with me, you want to say. Instead, you let sleep overtake you again.

You aren’t sure of the time it is now, and you notice Buggy was gone. You strain to listen to your baby, you didn’t hear anything either. In a panic, you shoot up.

”Buggy?”

”In here!”

Oh thank fuck.

He’s on the floor, playing with your daughter. You ease your heartbeat, standing there a little awkwardly.

“C’mere.”

He drapes an arm over you, “can that kid watch Marcie today? I wanna take you out, just us.”

”I’m not a cheap date.”

”Oh, I know.”

You haven’t dressed up in ages, nervously fussing with your hair until he knocks on the bathroom door.

“Be out in a minute.”

What were you even doing? How many women do you know with husbands like him? The loneliness, the worry. It was easier when you were younger, Buggy was made for the sea. He couldn’t stand being on land for long.

So why did you marry him? Because he was funny? Because he was cute? He loved you the only way he knew how; a captive audience, an adoring fan.

But that’s not really true, is it? It never was for you, he loves you honestly. A rare thing from a pirate.

Buggy whistles at the sight of you, “gorgeous.”

“Thanks, Bug.”

”Only stating the obvious, I could go on but, we got plans tonight don’t we?”

He doesn’t fit in amongst the diners surrounding you. If not his best outfit being a striped shirt and dirty pants, it’s his leg on the chair arm with a drink in his hand. People gawk at his nose when he’s not looking, thankfully focused on you.

If you were honest, you didn’t belong in this place either.

“Why are we here Buggy?”

”You deserve it, had a pretty good haul awhile ago.”

”That why you left?”

He grimaces, “yeah. Found a map.”

You look at your plate, chewing slowly. Buggy drinks more than he eats.

”We were arguing more, you seemed so unhappy. I uh, figured it was better to ask for forgiveness than permission.”

Your vision blurs, “you should’ve told me.”

”I know honey, I know. I never…I never sat still long. As much as I’d like to.”

He insisted it could work at the time, claiming that pirating would be a side gig. Pirates weren’t built for that, as much as Buggy loved his circus you know he loved treasure more.

”So now what? When’s the next time you’re just gonna run?”

Buggy wouldn’t face you, “I-I don’t know. I do know…I won’t leave you stranded. Not again. Ever.”

You lose your appetite, running out on him. You aren’t sure where you were going, running towards the ships docked in the pier. He’s right behind you, shouting your name. You ignore it, reaching his ship.

You wish you kept a bottle, you’d burn the damn thing down. You laugh bitterly, the sea really is his mistress.

“Baby, hey. Let’s talk.”

”If I didn’t send that letter, would you even come back? When I was pregnant?”

Buggy holds your face in his hands, forcing you to look at him. His jaw is tense, his fingers tremble. You never seen him so undone.

”I never left. Not really. I married you because I love you.”

”Don’t bullshit.”

”I’m not.”

You slap him, “don’t lie to me.”

”I’m not.”

You shove him, “don’t lie to me!”

“Baby stop! I’m sorry okay! God damn.”

You attempt to knock his head off his shoulders. He grabs your hand before you do, “come on. Let me show you something.”

He leads you to his cabin, among the mess and clutter he digs for something. He hands you a box, all your letters, photos, even an old wanted poster. He even kept a onesie and one of the footprints you thought was thrown away.

“I did it for us, I always do it for us.”

You’re on the verge of tears, “You’re going to Grand Line soon, aren’t you?”

He nods, “I had to square away my affairs, I had to see you again.”

You swallow hard, “how long?”

You never sailed that far, your own crew wasn’t ready for that. If he lived, you knew how long he could be gone.

”I don’t know. I do know one thing, I’ll be back.”

You let him hold you as you cry, you could feel droplets on the top of your head. You both stand there crying for who knows how long. Eventually Buggy kisses your eyes, and you tug on his shirt to pull his lips to yours.

It’s a good sign, you feel fireworks even now. He lifts up your skirt, fingers grazing the waistband of your underwear.

”I love you,” he whispers, “my North Star.”

Buggy stays with you for several weeks, and a small part of you wants to pretend he’s going to stay. When your first love died, you promised to remain by the sea. They’d protect you, even in spirit. You hope that promise extended to Buggy, they would’ve like each other.

You help him ready the ship, Buggy stalling in every way he knew how. Not enough costumes, a spotlight was out, you both knew how this was going to end.

He doesn’t let go of your daughter, showing her every single part of his ship. The crew adores her, promising to make her a cabin girl once she’s old enough. It kind of sounds nice, Buggy plans to bring you along too when the time comes. That sounds pretty good to you too.

Eventually, the Big Top sets sail. You teach Marcela to wave to her daddy, you blow kisses as you shout farewells. You promise to tell her about him, and he promises his damnedest to write every day.

It wasn’t going to be easy, it was going to be lonelier this time around. But you are a beacon, an angel of the sea to guide him home.

#buggy the clown #one piece #buggy x reader #buggy x you

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impossiblesuitcase · 2 years

Text

Two Blue Ribbons

“As we await the upcoming wedding of Emperor Kaito and Ambassador Linh-Blackburn, many are questioning the credibility of their relationship. As we know, the couple claims that their romantic connection began before either of them knew that Linh Cinder was actually Princess Selene. Seriously, is anyone buying this? The emperor just happened to fall in love with the girl that happened to be Princess Selene and—”

MUTE FEED.

Cinder groaned into her fist.

A week before her wedding, the public were drunk on anticipation. It was—without exaggeration—the only thing in the newsfeeds, as they all predicted the scale of the celebrations, and the colour of the bride’s dress, and would the handsome celebrity Carswell Thorne be officiating the ceremony as he claimed?

Cinder could handle that kind of speculation, even when it was far-fetched. (And no, Thorne would not be officiating…)

What irritated her was the other rumours—claims that she was still manipulating Kai, or that it was a ploy to conquer Earth in the bloodied footsteps of her aunt. Some said she was marrying him for money. Others that she regretted abdicating the Lunar throne and wished to regain power.

She slumped against the wall of her bare, humid sitting room, ignoring the critical expression of the muted host.

The silence was priceless. Even with the wedding prepared down to the exact millisecond she would walk the aisle, she had not been afforded rest. There was still her ensuing coronation as empress, and her first tour of the Commonwealth, and her first Opening of State Cabinet, and her first Annual Peace Ball, even when that was well over ten months away. Her only silent moments, it seemed, were in sleep.

“And why is the blushing bride looking so glum?”

Cinder lifted her head as Kai entered with his loud but assuring presence.

When it came to him, silence was overrated.

“I can’t blush, so I don’t know which bride you’re talking about,” she feigned. “Try next door.”

That received a pfft. His thin grey button-up and linen slacks were rumbled from a long day of formality, yet he would still look professional if it weren’t for the impish curl of his lips. “No, I’ve definitely got the right one. My soon-to-be wife is sarcastic whenever she can be.”

Cinder smiled and patted the floor next to her.

Kai cantered over as carefree as a duck in water. Her swirling emotions made her more like an ant in an avalanche. It was palpable in the air, judging by the delicate way he touched her back and settled against her side.

“How do you feel?”

She stared at the blank wall ahead. “Like I’m forgetting something.”

“Ceremony, reception, catering, outfits.” He listed the items off his fingers. “Anything else?”

When you arrive, do not greet the crowds until the train of your dress has completely left the hover. Pause at the chrysanthemum emblem on the floor until you hear music, then begin to walk—right foot, left, take a step every two seconds. The emperor will repeat his vows first. You must repeat his full name, not just Kai. Don’t call him Kai. “That’s what I’m not sure of.”

He poked her shoulder, sounding pleased. “Well, the honeymoon is three weeks long—just enough time for you to remember when we’re on the other side of the world and it doesn’t matter at all.”

“You’re probably right.”

“I am definitely right. As I am about most things.”

She sent a challenging look. “Oh?”

“I’m psychic,” he revealed, wiggling his eyebrows.

A dead-pan.

“It’s true! I already sensed you’d be fretting over something, so I shall provide you insurance.” Miming pulling glasses from his pocket and setting them on his nose, Kai cleared his throat and began: “The wedding is completely, truly over-planned. The crew will arrive three days prior. I confirmed all the honeymoon bookings. And I’ve already started unpacking your boxes into our suite.”

Cinder frowned. “I thought we were gonna do that together?”

He lowered his ‘glasses’ to stroke his chin mischievously, “You know, that probably would have been a good idea. Then I could blame you for all the things I broke.”

She jerked away. “You broke my stuff?!”

“No.”

“Then why would you—”

The troublemaker cackled. Ruffled her hair. “I didn’t expect you to be so easy to rile up.”

Why the little—

Her shoulder knocked into his, her pride smarting. “Shut up, I’ve been stressed.”

“The thought of marrying me must be overwhelming.”

“More like embarrassing,” she mumbled.

The laughter set to burst in his chest truncated. His smile tightened as he studied her, scrutiny forming in his eyes.

“So why are you here?” she diverted quickly. “Didn’t you have a meeting with Tashmi-jie?”

The hesitancy lingered, but he appeared to forestall his interrogation. It took him a moment to follow her inquiry. “She wanted to run over the ceremony, but I remembered the one thing we haven’t rehearsed properly yet.” Reaching into his pocket, Kai produced two thick ribbons, midnight blue in colour. “How good are you at tying knots?”

“The ribbons?” Cinder questioned, sceptical, but still took one when handed to her. “Isn’t it, like, taboo?”

Kai posed a finger over his lips and shhhed.

Royal Earthen tradition dictated that the bride and groom would tie a ribbon around each other’s wrists which the officiant would then tie together. It symbolised the unification of the pair as one person, one heart, one purpose. As most traditions went, there were needless superstitions surrounding it, here being that the betrothed couple was not allowed to tie the ribbons together before the ceremony. Doing so would supposedly diminish the significance of the act. They skipped this part at the rehearsal.

Her fingers pulled at the deceptively sturdy silk. “Does a knot require practice?”

He lifted her hand. “You’d be surprised how difficult the simplest tasks become under the watchful eyes of billions of people.”

She almost grimaced.

Billions of people would be watching. Judging. Scrutinising. Their wedding would be the most defining, incontestable proof of their love. She wanted the world to know, to witness it, but it was exhausting being watched under a microscope all the time.

Kai cradled her cyborg hand gingerly as he manoeuvred the fabric. Deftly, gently. Too gently.

“It needs to be tighter.”

“I don’t want to hurt you.”

“Kai.”

Once he’d let go, she tilted her hand vertically. The ribbon pirouetted down her fingers. “Metal and silk,” she reminded him.

He sighed and started again, tying it firmly. “Can you feel that?”

“Nope. No nerve endings.”

Though it did not slip off this time, Kai was not content. Tugging, tugging, tighter and tighter…and the ribbon’s edge slipped right into the crack of her wrist joint.

“I do need that hand,” she warned.

His eyes bulged, releasing her hand like he’d dropped a grand piano on it. Cinder just laughed and pulled the ribbon away.

“Here, I’ll try.” She flipped his palm over, roughly tying a knot like she used to tie cords in her booth.

“Hey, I have actual blood circulation here!”

“Sorry,” she hissed. Alas, a tourniquet didn’t quite send the message of lifelong love. Maybe lifelong imprisonment.

She untied it and retried, taking great care to move slowly. So slow that the silk lost traction on her metal fingers and flopped into her lap.

“Not so easy, huh?”

Gritting her teeth, Cinder attempted it again. Once. Twice. Thrice. Each time, it glided right past the metal.

“Okay, tie it loose first, and then pull on the ends,” he guided calmly.

She retied it loosely.

“Good,” he commended. “Now pull.”

Inhaling to prepare, she seized both ends, secured in the metal, and yanked.

The ribbon unravelled entirely and fluttered to the floor.

“You forgot a second loop.”

Cinder threw up her hands. “Nope! I’m done!”

Kai patted her arm consolingly. He picked up the traitorous ribbon, folded it over his knuckles for a moment then shifted in place, stilted against the stiff wall. “So why are we on the floor?”

Cinder settled her head on his shoulder, only catching a glimpse of his nose and jaw from this angle, then looked around the sitting room. “This doesn’t really feel like mine anymore.”

The room was a part of her own quarters, where she’d lived for the past year. Most of her personal belongings had been moved to Kai’s wing, where she would live in a week’s time. With only the furniture, carpet and drapes it came with, this felt like a guest suite.

“You’ll be in our home soon. You’re going to love it; we’ll play music while we cook dinner and slow dance in the kitchen, everyday.”

“You’ll love it. Not all of us are brilliant dancers.”

“You will, here—” He pocketed the ribbon, grasped her wrists and pulled her upright. “Feed,” he called, ignoring her groan, “play a walt—”

“—most controversial part of this wedding is the ceremony itself. The Ambassador is always preaching about reducing poverty and strengthening our weak economy and yet this wedding is going to cost millions of univs—”

“Mute feed.” His nose curled. “They’re all being ridiculous.”

“People believe them.”

“Not everyone.”

“Enough,” she whispered.

His scowl vanished, replaced with attentiveness and the words he’d held back before, “What’s wrong, love?”

She sighed and plucked the ribbon from his back pocket. Lifted his wrist and tied it. Methodically. Delicately. It was still a little too snug.

“Cinder?”

A glance at the feed, now broadcasting pan shots of the palace.

He followed her gaze, followed her frown, then bound her up in his arms.

“I’m so happy, Kai. To be getting married to you, you know I am,” she said. “And the last months planning this with you, finally being with you in person, it’s the happiest I’ve ever been in my life,” It was true, even if she hadn’t known until that very spoken oath. “It’s our wedding and our day…but…” Her voice warbled, catching on that blasted conjunction. “I’m getting tired of being watched.”

She sniffed, feeling stupid for pitying herself. They were born into this; prince or emperor, queen or empress, they would be plastered over the tabloids. She would have hundreds of thousands of millions of search results. Their relationship would span over multiple sections of their net profiles, all cited to ‘inside sources’ and grainy paparazzi photos.

Scratch the ant. She was a fly, frantically escaping a trillion prying fly squatters.

“I’m just tired.”

Kai began to rock her, a gentle ocean wave lapping up the sides of the boat.

“Do you know why I’m marrying you?” he murmured.

“Oh, tax purposes, mostly,” she testified. “I’m only marrying you to get Earthen citizenship.”

“What did I say about the sarcasm?”

A smile reached her despite her bubbling anxiety. “I don’t need a glamour to play mind tricks on you, my beloved.”

He was rolling his eyes internally, she knew. “I know perfectly well that our relationship causes scandals and rumours and all that. But I don’t care, because you, and my love for you, is more important to me than my reputation. That’s why I’m marrying you. And you’re going to walk down the aisle as the most beautiful woman in the room—”

“That’ll be Winter.”

“The most beautiful woman in the room,” he told her, “and the public won’t matter. It’s not about them. If my cabinet wouldn’t kill me for it, we would elope and have takeaway for our reception. Because what matters is us, and our marriage and our love. That’s all.”

She tucked her head under his chin, ensconced in his warmth, sequestered from the world. Thinking, thinking.

To tie the ribbons together, a third person was needed. A person who wouldn’t really know the ins and outs of their relationship, the intricacies of their love.

“I have an idea.”

His hand was still wrapped with her too-tight attempt. Cinder darted back to the wall, seizing the matching ribbon and held out her wrist. Kai came over and got to work.

Then, she took the end of his ribbon with her free hand, and gestured for him to take hers. He gathered her plan without a word, though, thinking about it, he was supposedly ‘psychic.’ Working together—his hand forming the loop, her hand threading through—a limp but effective knot bound them as one.

Kai gave it a pull and nodded, satisfied with its resilience. “How’d I end up handcuffed to a criminal?”

“And who was the one that arrested me?” Cinder folded her arms instinctually, drawing him flush to her chest.

He grinned, chin to her nose. “Me. But not before I forced you”—finding her waist, setting her arms horizontal—“to dance!”

Laughter was the musical accompaniment to sloppy flailing and attempts to not trip over the coffee table. He spun her under his arm, sending her staggering right into his heaving chest.

“You may trip the bride,” she giggled.

“Kiss,” he corrected, and did just so.

The graceless floundering transformed from a waltz to a tango to a conga line. They stopped before irish dancing.

Kai kissed her hair and her sweaty temple and swayed them back and forth. She went to tie her arms around his neck but felt her hands jolt.

Warm fingers laced through hers. “We’re stuck together.”

“As we should be.”

They kept dancing, because nothing was stopping them, and they kept loving each other, because no one could stop them.

Perhaps what she was forgetting was that they would be okay.

“I did break your pliers, though.”

“Kai!”

Notes

Pliers are hard to break. Give me your theories on how baby boy stuffed up in the notes.

If you want to be tagged, let me know!

@cindersassasin @hayleblackburn @spherical-empirical @salt-warrior @just2bubbly @gingerale2017 @zephyr-thedragon @holdmysparks @oceanspray5 @icarusignite @kaider-is-my-otp @slmkaider @luna-maximoff-22 @cosmicnovaflare @kaixiety @snozkat @imamirrorball4

#the lunar chronicles #lunar chronicles #tlc #cinder #linh cinder #kaider #emperor kaito #prince kai #selene blackburn #kaider fanfiction #the lunar chronicles fanfiction #engaged kaider #I started writing this like 2 years ago #and then cinder's adventure was coming out so I thought #ooh i'll wait because we might get new engaged kaider content #lol #remember our hopes?

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alexanderlightweight · 1 year

Note

Happy Wednesday! I was re-reading “all my fears forgotten” and the part where Alec apparently set his back up plans specifically for Magnus yet left out what the warlock means to him personally got me curious.

Not sure if this falls under a world building question or prompt but why? Why not mention Magnus?

happy wednesday!

so i'm treating this as a question and a little bit as a prompt!

i'm a little confused about where the confusion is but could just be because i'm tired. if this doesn't answer the question or make sense than just ask more questions because i'm happy to answer them even if i need to answer them more than once

in this universe everyone in the institute, alec's family and parts of the clave all know that magnus and alec are together. but while they are bonded, they aren't married by official nephilim standards because neither of them give a fuck about the claves version of married

now the reason magnus is able to do these things are because he's alec's SO. but at the same time the fact that magnus is alec's so isn't really the point? the point is that alec set it up that no one can contest that magnus (regardless of his status but because of his place as alec's significant other) is given the most rights and power over him rather than his family or the clave.

the reason magnus doesn't know about these protocols is because alec's still working on them and he didn't want to give them to magnus until they were solidly set in stone.

luckily, they were when this happened

also if you're wondering about alec, he wrote a note about his feelings for magnus as proof while he was of sound mind and uh... yeah alec doesn't need memories to know that whoever he wrote the note about is the love of his life.

i hope this makes sense and you enjoy the next bit of it

<3 lumine

all my fears forgotten

Alec wakes quietly, holding his breath and keeping still for reasons he doesn’t understand until the moments passed.

It’s strange to realize that whatever instinct his body is reacting to is one that he trained into it for a reason he doesn’t know.

“Awake?”

Memories of Magnus — though not old memories of Magnus — unfurl in his mind and he knows now why he would pretend to stay asleep. Why wouldn’t he keep still and quiet if it meant keeping his place with Magnus’ heartbeat as a pillow.

“Darling, I can see the cute little wrinkle of your nose as you pretend you’re just dreaming.”

Alec gave a huff and finally cracked open his eyes, squinting carefully and then opening them wider when the only light was a soft gold through the gauzy curtains.

“Hi—” he managed to say and then he has to shift up and press a content kiss to the underside of Magnus’ jaw. It’s with easy joy that he lets himself relax back down and he stares at the surprised curve of Magnus’ mouth and the limpid gold of his eyes.

“Aren’t you a charmer.”

Alec knows it’s a tease but he can’t help but preen just a little.

It doesn’t matter to Alec that he doesn’t know how he and Magnus met or how they fell into a relationship together. All he cares about is that Magnus looks at him with love and Alec’s own heart pounds as though it beats in hope of earning a mere hint of his smiles.

The past will be remembered or stay forgotten but there is a future yet to unfold by Magnus’ side. Alec doesn’t see any other path than leaning to love Magnus as ardently as he did before the accident. There will be no way to tell if he’ll succeed unless his memories return but well, Alec doesn’t mind loving Magnus being a life goal if he never gets them back.

“Will you be okay, if I don’t remember or if it takes me a while?” He asks cautiously at one point and he can’t help how much he wants to kiss Magnus. It’s the one true downside of amnesia, not knowing when his kisses and touches will be welcomed and if he needs to be careful.

“You can take as little or as much time as you need, even if they never come back.” Magnus promises him and Alec hesitates just a moment before carefully leaning forward.

Magnus accepts the kiss with an eager gasp and the press of his mouth turns Alec’s blood molten. His body surrenders to the feeling but Alec is still overwhelmed with Magnus’ fervor and the magic sparking down his spine from the kiss.

As much as a part of Alec misses his memories, he delights in the knowledge that he gets to experience all of Magnus’ touches again, as if for the very first time.

#lumine writes #writing wednesday #writing wednesdays #all my fears forgotten #malec #shadowhunters #magnus bane #alec lightwood

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skyward-floored · 1 year

Note

LU Zelink marriages head canons, go!

Alright, let’s see...

Time and Twilight are excluded here because Time has Malon, and Twilight is heavily implied to be interested in Ilia (plus the whole Midna mess) so he’s not here either.

...And before anybody gets on my case, Legend and Fable aren’t siblings here! Them being siblings is just a headcanon! They’re not related here!

We good? Good.

Anyways, this got long so I’m putting it under the cut.

For Sky and Sun... I think Skyloft has a lot of traditions and things, so their wedding would have a lot of that. Everybody on Skyloft attends I’m sure, plus the handful of friends Sky and Sun made on the surface, the kikwi’s and mole guys (who’s names I’m not remembering at the moment) and all. They probably have the wedding somewhere in Faron, as the first wedding on the Surface Grooseland and it’s a very happy affair :)

Once Four is old enough to get married, I think his and Dot’s wedding is a lot like Sky’s: lots of tradition, but not too big of an event, lots of family and friends (and people they have to invite because it’s technically a royal wedding 🙄). The minish probably help in all sorts of little ways, with any food and little details on Dot’s dress. Her and Four probably aren’t nearly serious enough during the ceremony, and a couple of people are scandalized. They don’t care a bit.

Wind has a while to go before he’s old enough to really get married, but I think him and Tetra make it a pretty small deal. Tetra suggested eloping but she was mostly kidding. Mostly. They probably have the ceremony on the ship, but dock it at Outset so they can have the party afterwards there without running out of room. It takes them a while to find someone to officiate (you can’t officiate your own wedding, Tetra) Makar and Medli do the music, and Tingle probably invites himself.

Legend, after he accepts that Marin is gone and lets himself love again (...it probably takes a while), would probably prefer a pretty small wedding. Fable is all for it (I’m sure she’d hate a fuss), so they have a quiet wedding in the apple orchard by Legend’s house. Ravio somehow ends up making money off of it, and probably gives Legend one of his own items as a wedding gift.

Hyrule, no matter which Zelda it is that he’s in love with (I certainly don’t have any clue XD) does not want a big wedding. Of course, he somehow ends up with one anyways because he’s marrying a princess and especially if you add in the whole “destined to be king” thing he possibly has it’s probably a wedding and a coronation, so it’s a Big Deal. Poor Hyrule is an absolute mess of nerves.

Warriors and Artemis almost elope. They very much consider just booking it from the castle for a week or two to get married then come back, so they can skip the whole fuss and political nonsense that comes with a royal wedding, but Impa keeps giving them glares so she’d probably stop them. So they put up with the whole spectacle of everything, then very much enjoy a quiet honeymoon.

Wild... I’m a little hesitant to say much about since I haven’t played totk yet (no spoilers!!!) and am not quite sure how things have changed between him and Flora (if at all). But either way, I think they probably try to have a nice quiet wedding, then have a bigger party afterwards. Probably a little like Rhondson and Hudson’s wedding, it’s just a small affair. Then a big party and everything afterwards where they invite everyone they can, everybody Wild’s met and helped over the years.

#an unusual question but I had fun answering it #answers from the floor #anon #linkeduniverse #zelink #Sky/Sun #Four/Dot #Wind/Tetra #telink #Warriors/Artemis #Legend/Fable #Wild/Flora #whew

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emmatgc · 5 months

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Wonderful World FanFic

Seon Yul x Soo Hyun sequel

(A short novel for one of my favorite no labels but rich in chemistry duo, relationship and what if couple in Kdrama. If you are not a “shipper”, better not read this one. New characters are added and will be added. Please take note this is all in my interpretation of the story and the aftermath of the finale. Enjoy! PS. I will try to update this every week if schedule permits)

Part 2: Summertime Solace

Will I be able to go on living like this? Seon Yul asked himself. After he testified for Soo Hyun and against his uncle, he was thinking what awaits the son of a murderer in the real world? He remembered though, that Soo Hyun did it after 7 years of being incarcerated so perhaps, he too, can do it, too. He can give the world another chance and the world will give him another chance. His dream has always been to become a doctor and he continued his studies and applied in Seoul National University Hospital. The first 2 years were so tough but the pain was never like the pain he got when he lost his parents so he carried on. To his surprise, he wasn't bullied in the hospital, perhaps, he said Soo Hyun was right, there is still kindness in the world. His demons are still there, but it is now trauma and not monsters. He wants to forgive his father and most of all, himself and he is getting there, slowly but surely.

“Dr. Gwon, there is an orphanage 30 kilometers away from Seoul, they need a volunteer for a month but maybe in the future a resident doctor, too, will your team be up to it?”, his Chief surgeon asked. “Yes, we are”. They packed light and were excited to go especially since it's away from the city,they needed a break. Hospital ships are great but it can be exhausting. Not to mention Seon Yul , as he discovered, can be sea sick. He has to be careful, his heart specifically can't afford to overwork. He was so hopeful for this new adventure, and his team, 2 of his closest friends can’t think of a better way to recharge for their next months of grueling surgeries and exams, 1 last year and Seon Yul will become officially a cardiac surgeon.

Traveling was fun but Seon Yul, always an introvert, was reading a book. He is reading her book “Wonderful World”. Looking at the window, summer is finally here. Not too cold but not hot either, just fine weather. The sun is sitting in the sky and he can smell a creek, maybe a lake, and he can see green grasses, with tiny huts, a playground and a huge house. The bus stopped, they are here. He read the sign “Wonderful Smiles”.

Soo Hyun was panicking, she didn't have enough food for the Doctors coming in, she got side tracked by an unexpected visit from her sister and niece. She missed her. Her sister lives in Seoul and opened 3 more branches. Business is good and she is now married, with a daughter of her own. Soo Hyun wanted to cook but there was no time. So she rushed outside to go to the town to buy food and suddenly, she saw something she never thought she'd ever see again, up close. Someone…she looked like she had seen a ghost. She stopped and dropped her list. She wanted to be sure. Seon Yul? She said, It is really him. She smiled. He smiled. She welcomed them and Seo Yul didn't really know what to say and do at that moment, until Soo Hyun reached for his hand, and they shaked hands, for the 1st time, not as enemies, maybe not as friends yet, but acquaintances.

“It is good to meet you, finally, Dr. Soo Hyun”. It is the 1st time Seon Yul called her by her first name. It is good to finally see you, Dr. Gwon, she replied. She wanted to be more formal, choosing his family name instead. The other Doctors, confused as they are, introduced themselves and wanted to ask how the two knew each other but surprisingly, both Seon Yul and Soo Hyun replied “it is a long story” together. They looked at each other and again smiled while nodding their heads. They went inside and settled down. They toured the house, the compound, more accurately. The staff told them to rest and dinner will be served later.

Seon Yul is a little bit overwhelmed. He didn't think he will see Soo Hyun again after that day. But maybe, fate has the final say. Maybe it is time.

After showering, he wanted to go outside and see the dawn. Perhaps, tonight the stars.

At the corner of his eye, he saw Soo Hyun going to her car. He ran slowly to her and said “Can I go with you? I’d like to help for dinner”. Soo Hyun said she will be fine but he insisted. In her car, there is an eerie silence. Nobody talked for a polite amount of time. Until Soo Hyun asked “What do you want to eat”, "Do you still like the same foods”.

“You remember?, seemingly surprised and smirked. Yes, I still like the same”. Do you stay here all the time? He asked bravely. He was surprised by his question but he can’t take it back now.

"Most of the time, she replied. It is a beautiful place, I love it here. Away from the noise. Just away from everything”

They bought a lot. From tteokbokki to sea foods and live squids, Soo Hyun’s favorite. Before going back, a cozy tea house is still open. Seon Yul looked at Soo Hyun, as if to say “Do you want some tea?” and Soo Hyun, just nodded and smiled as they entered and drank tea. Just like before when they were enemies, tea is a symbol of their indifference and uncertainty. Perhaps now, the tea tastes better, as the new leaf for summer turns a new page. He looks at her everytime she sips her tea and nods her head and when she looks back up, he pretends not to notice. He is thinking loudly. Here is someone I used to hate so much and now, she is having tea with me, a real one, no motive, just tea. The air is thick and it is normal. The air is not gloomy but hopeful. They shared some words and just some silence embracing this peace they thought they wouldn’t find together at least with each other.

Soo Hyun? They heard a voice. They looked up and It’s Su ho.

(PS: Thank you for reading esp my X fellow shippers & friends. I got inspired by you, few or not, this is for all of you. Till next chapter! It's gonna be more intense, sort of 😳)

#wonderful world #kimnamjoo #kdrama #cha eunwoo #seonyul #soohyun #kdrama fanfic

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127luvr · 2 years

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Hi there👁

Can I request a fic in which a male reader is getting married to Minho(Shinee) and is all shy about it

And yet, Minho is so awestruck by how beautiful his husband looks. Makeup, the tuxedo, his hair, the fact his ring is so shiny and ornate, etc

He absolutely cannot take his eyes off y/n and is so happy to go onto a new chapter in his life.

Love Sick

Choi Minho x Male Reader

Minho is used to being in the spotlight. He is used to having hundreds—even thousands—of people looking up at him for hours at a time. You knew this was nothing to him. You can’t help but fidget with the hem of your blazer, darting your eyes back and forth between your friends and family to the end of the aisle. This is nothing compared to the crowds he’s had to face but it’s just as terrifying to you.

You hear the music swell, followed by a harsh decrescendo as you spot Minho across the room.

You can’t help but hold your breath as you stared him down from his dress shoes to the top of his brown hair. His tuxedo is much more dramatic than yours. The tailcoat that hugged his waist perfectly was long—hitting the back of his thighs as he made his way towards you. The tips of the collar turned up—instead of down—behind his (f/c) bowtie. You let out a shaky breath, losing sight of all the people that sat, turned to see him walk towards you. Maybe it wasn’t the people making you nervous. It was the act of the wedding itself with Minho.

Minho is speechless when he finally gets to see you up close. His eyes full of nothing but admiration as he takes in your face. (H/c) hair was styled naturally—a few pieces slicked back to show your face and accentuate the light makeup that sat on your face. He takes in the highlights that sit on the tops of your cheekbones—the tip of your nose and right on top of your lips. There is a neutral brown that surrounds your eyes and a tint of red that sits in the center of your lips. He can’t help but tear up—taking your hand in his—finally letting a tear free when he sees the engagement ring he got for you sitting pretty on your left hand.

He has a lump in his throat that he can’t quite swallow. Even as he recites his vows he can’t help but choke up at the countless memories he wants to bring up—but simply can’t. Otherwise you’d be there for hours.

You bring a hand up to cup his face, making the moment as intimate as you could. As if only the two of you were in the room. You let your thumb run across his soft cheek—playing with his hair with the rest of your fingers.

“(Y/n), at the risk of exposing myself as cheesy and romantic in front of my family—” chuckles are heard from the front, reminding you of the audience that watched the two of you from afar. “You make me so happy—more than you could ever imagine. You are the only person that I want to see at the end of a long day—the only person I want to see after having been on back-to-back schedules because I always want to hear what you have to say. How your day has been. You are my priority. I promise to provide you with whatever you need from me.” Minho pauses, grabbing your hand from his face and bringing it to his lips, he kisses it before taking the ring from the officiant, sliding it on to your finger. “But you know all of this. This is nothing new because our relationship has always been compared to an old married couple.” Another roar of laughter.

He doesn’t stop there—bringing up memories from years ago that you didn’t even realize he remembered. But the rest of the night is a blur, you can hardly remember reciting your own vows as you had felt like you were in daze the whole day.

You finally ground yourself at the reception—having changed into much more comfortable shoes to share your first dance with Minho. He grabs you by the waist, leading the dance as you laid your head on his shoulder. The steps are lazy, still going to the rhythm of the song the two of you had picked months ago. You wish it would never end, that the music would never stop and you could just sway along to it with your husband.

Your husband.

“Minho. We are married.” You feel his shoulders shake, his laugh coming from deep within his stomach as he gives you a nod. “We’re husbands, you know? You should’ve drawn up a prenup because now you’re stuck with me.”

“(Y/n), I could barely get a word out to you because I was too busy admiring you. You should worry about having to be stuck with me.” Minho looks down as the two of you sway, letting out a fond smile as he feels your arms tighten around his middle. “You have no idea how long I’ve been waiting for this, (Y/n). I love you so much.”

#Choi Minho #Minho Shinee #Shinee #Minho x male reader #shinee x male reader #x male reader #hi thank you for requesting 😆🫶#he may be a little ooc im rusty when it comes to shinee 😟#<3

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apomaro-mellow · 2 years

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Original Post

Lil snippet I wrote before

Nancy watched as Robin perused the aisles and flipped through the books. How the rings on her fingers glinted in the light of the library. How would it feel to kiss those rings? And then those fingertips? Oh how she could-

“Earth to Wheeler? You’re supposed to be helping me graduate, remember?”, Eddie reminded her from across the table.

Nancy reluctantly turned her head away from Robin and cleared her throat. “That’s not all I’m helping you with”, she said.

“Can we not talk about this here?”

“Eddie. It could work.”

“Alright, I found it”, Robin said, using her stage whisper voice while holding up a book. “I’m checking out and then it’s off to work. See you two later.”

“Later”, Eddie waved.

“Bye”, Nancy said and she turned as Robin left, following her until she turned the corner to the check out desk. It was clear she had it bad. And if Eddie could, he would help. But the only way he could help was...

“If we do this, you should know I’m totally hopeless. Like, a lost cause.”

Nancy turned back to him and reflected on how she probably looked to other people. Dating well-known serial dater like Steve, then dating someone like Jonathan, and then dancing with someone like Dustin, and now she had her eyes set on Robin, who had prospects on her own merits, just not in the love department. After all, women didn’t get married.

“I’m used to lost causes”, she said. “But that doesn’t mean I won’t try.” Nancy cleared her throat. “Besides, you’ve got the easy part. I already know what Steve likes. Just follow my lead and he’ll be yours.”

It was a simple plan really. Once she got Steve and Eddie together, it would confirm that Steve had officially moved on. And once that happened, she could happily pursue Robin. Otherwise it would look awfully callous of her to go courting the best friend of her ex.

Eddie thought his biggest problems post-Vecna would be the angry mob. Or getting his GED. Turned out it was having his heart put on a tray for Steve Harrington to either rip apart or ignore. He didn’t know which was going to be worse.

“Alright, but let’s wait for a change of scenery to hatch our plan, yeah? I’d like to be done with high school before I’m thirty.”

“Understandable.”

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

They met at Eddie’s place. His status, despite being cleared by the government, meant he was not welcome in the Wheeler home.

“So how’s this gonna work?”, Eddie asked. “Last I checked, Steve wasn’t into dudes.”

“Well...look at us”, Nancy said.

Eddie gave her a flat look. “The prep and the cult leader. What a picture we paint.”

Nancy groaned. “No, look.” She pulled him into the bathroom and gestured towards the mirror. “See?”

His eyes flicked towards her. “Are you trying to boost my confidence or flatten it? What am I looking for?”

“Eddie...you and I could be siblings. I mean you look like me more than Mike does.”

Eddie could see they both had curly, dark hair. And he supposed when he noted Nancy big, brown doe eyes, he could see that his were also rather dark and round. But besides that...

“I mean is your plan to put a push up bra on me and hope Steve doesn’t notice while you and Robin elope?”

“We’re not getting married. I’ve gotta ask her out first. Which I can’t do, until you bag Steve.”

She said it with such confidence and yet Eddie couldn’t imagine it.

“Would you like to hear my actual plan, or wallow in self doubt?”

Eddie would’ve preferred to wallow, he did. But he knew if he attempted, Nancy “Balls of Steel” Wheeler would’ve pulled him out of it. Like she helped to pull him out of the Upside Down when he was bleeding out. Like when she pulled him out of his trailer to help him get his diploma. And now she was pulling him to get his love life together.

Wait.

“Are we friends?”, he asked suddenly.

Nancy rolled her eyes. “Yes we’re-” She looked at him slowly, as if just realizing it for the first time, then smiled. “Yes Eddie. We’re friends. And friends help each other out~”

“I knew there was a catch.”

“Okay. I know you’ve got note-taking skills from that dungeons game”, Nancy said as she left the bathroom. “Take out a notebook and let’s get started.”

Part 2

#apo writes #fanfiction #stranger things #ronance #steddie #okay this is the last thing im posting tonight #i gotta let these posts breathe #nancy wheeler #eddie munson

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eddievanhammettmunson · 2 years

Text

Corpse husband with Eddie

Undead Eddie x female reader

Author’s note- I wanted to make the corpse bride with Eddie. BUT I always wanted corpse bride to end with victor and Emily getting married so that’s what I’ve done here. If this does well or if people want it I will make an esternate where the reader ends up with Steve. 4.6k words

Warnings- death and lots of it. Technically suicide. Not proofread.

Summary- when you’re set to marry the lovely Steve Harrington but you keep messing up your vows you go to the forest to clear your head. But you end up somewhere well….dead.

It was supposed to be a glorious day. A glorious day for a wedding rehearsal between you and your soon to be husband Steve Harrington. But somehow you knew it was doomed from the start. Hell you didn’t even know the guy outside of the rumors you’d heard about him in highschool. The wedding was arranged by both of your parents and neither of you got a say in it.

When you got to the wedding rehearsal however your nerves were somewhat calmed when you happened to meet your soon to be husband in the foyer while you were hiding from your parents. You were surprised that he was not only was he just as handsome as you remembered from highschool but he was nice. Well as nice as someone being married off by their parents can be.

He had been sweet and funny and all around charming and you actually were able to believe for a second that maybe a marriage with him wouldn’t be so bad. That was until your parents showed up again and forced you two to join the rehearsal.

The rehearsal hadn’t gotten very far. There you were standing at the altar and all you had to do was say your vows. “With this hand I will lift your sorrows. Your cup will never empty for i will be your wine. With this candle I will light your way in darkness. With this ring I ask you to be mine.”

Simple enough yet for some reason you managed to trip over and forget almost every word. Your parents were humiliated. Steve’s parents were furious. Suddenly the officiant stops the rehearsal and turns to you.

“This Wedding cannot happen. Not until you have learned your vows young lady.”

You stood there for a moment before turning and running out of the room without looking back. You refused to make eye contact with anybody in the room lest you feel their disappointment. Even when you hear Steve calling after you. You refuse to turn and face him.

You run out of the building and you run and run until you find yourself alone in the woods. You begin to walk very slowly. Muttering to yourself about how stupid you believe you are. You then twist the engagement ring on your finger and you begin to rehearse your vows.

“With this hand I will….I will…. Drown in sorrow? No no no. Okay with this hand I will lift your sorrows. Your cups will never empty for i will be your wine. With this candle I will…. Light your father on fire it seems Jesus Christ I can’t do this.” You stop and see a bench in the middle of a clearing in the forest. You remember this bench from high school. People used to come out here to do drug deals.

You take a seat on the bench and take a deep breath. When you open your eyes you decide to try saying your vows one more time. “With this hand I will lift your sorrows. Your cup will never empty for i will be your wine. With this candle I will light your way in darkness. With this ring I ask you to be mine.” You slam your hands down on the bench in triumph.

Standing from the bench you look at the little ring on your engagement finger and you sigh twirling it a bit. You begin to pace and speak to yourself.

“I just thought my life would have a greater purpose rather than getting married…not that I don’t wanna get married….” You sigh “i just thought it would be my decision. Just cause I’m getting married doesn’t mean I can’t find a greater purpose. Okay one more time for luck. With this hand I will lift your sorrows. Your cup will never empty for i will be your wine. With this candle I will light your way in darkness. With this ring I ask you to be mine.” You slide the ring off of your finger and put it on the bench.

As soon as the ring touches the table there’s a shift in the atmosphere. The forest is suddenly colder than before. The wind is blowing wildly and you can hear the snapping of branches in the distance.

Suddenly from the distance you see a bunch of crows swarming around a tree. And from that tree emerges a tall man. Or what appears to be a man. As he stalks towards you he whispers two words.

“I do”

You begin to run. Not caring about direction. Just needing an escape. As you run your met with branches and twists and turns and crows all around you.

You make it back In to town. You see the building for the wedding rehearsal and you think you’re safe. You take a deep breath and turn towards the building only to be met face to face with the man.

This is the first time you get to see him up close when you’re not running. You can see gashes along his face and body. Exposed bone poking through at his arms and legs. Flesh ripped away across his body. His skin was pale beyond comprehension. His eyes were wide and dark. And the worst part is you recognized him.

There wasn’t much time to comprehend anything before he spoke.

“May I kiss the bride?” He began to lean in and you wanted to scream. But as he leaned in you were swarmed by dozens of birds and suddenly everything started to fade away into the sounds around you. Then everything went black.

***

As you began to open your eyes you hear voices and murmuring surround you.

“Looks like we got a new arrival”

“I think she fainted on the way here”

“Lemme get closer i want to see her”

As you open your eyes you feel a boney hand on the back of your neck helping to support you. You blink your eyes a few times and try to adjust.

“Wh-what’s happened to me?” You ask as you sit up and take in your surroundings.

“Holy shit man! I think she’s breathing? Is-is she alive?”

Your eyes snap open very wide as you look around at the people helping you. You stand up and back up against a slimy vine filled wall.

There he was. Eddie Munson. The boy who died in the earth quake a year ago. Next to him? Billy Hargrove. The boy who died in the mall fire. Next to him was Barbra. The student who died due to being exposed to chemicals from that lab.

As you look around the room your met with the sights of the dead from all around Hawkins. People you used to know. And suddenly you had the dreaded thought.

“Am I dead?” You look around the room and nobody answers until you look to Eddie.

“Nope sweetheart. You’re all good. Alive and well and flesh and bone.”

You breathe a sigh of relief. But then you inhale sharply again. If you weren’t dead then where the hell were you. And why were you here?

As you look around the room you see Billy and a girl you used to know named heather. She takes a drink of something and toasts to Billy and then looks to you.

“To the newlyweds!” Her and Billy say together.

“N-newlyweds?” You say in confusion.

Eddie strides over to you and wraps an arm around your shoulder.

“Yeah sweetheart. You said your vows so perfectly.”

“I did? I did!” You turn around and begin to smash your head into the wall.

“WAKE UP!!!! WAKE UP!!!!!!”

As you slam your head into the wall you feel a hand on your shoulder so you turn around to see a tall boney man handing you a drink.

“Hello I’m Benny. I’m the head chef down here. I will be creating your weddin feast!”

You gasp and step back bumping into Eddie. Suddenly Eddie’s eye pops out and a little Maggot appears.

It looks to you and begins to speak. “Wedding feast! I’m starving!”

You attempt to move away from Eddie but everywhere you turn there are more dead people. People you used to know. Everything has you petrified until you back into a counter with a knife on the table. You grab hold of the knife and life it into the air.

“Everybody stop!”

The rooms freezes and turns to you.

“I need answers. What the hell is this place. How are you all here?”

Eddie laughs and steps towards you. “Well that’s kind of a long story.”

“A tragic tale it is. A tale of adventure, passion, and a murder most foul.” You turn towards the voice and see a man sitting at a table. You recognize him as the founder of Hawkins AV club. He used to date Miss Byers until he died tragically a few years back.

The room falls quiet as the man begins to tell the story.

“Well our boy was a freak. Known for miles around. When a mysterious man began to plague our town. He was plenty hideous and had a plan to hash. And our poor little boy got roped in fast. So when Eddie’s friends tried to help him he just couldn’t cope. So our mystery man came up with a plan to interlope. So the crew conjured up a plan to meet late at night. They told not a soul kept the whole thing tight. They were prepared to bring down the mystery man with a good old fight. He didn’t bring much just a shield and a spear. Waiting all night to fight the man. Then when the time came our boy was a hero. But with the last of his strength the mystery man summoned all his bats and had the boy eaten to death. Now when he opened his eyes he was dead as dust. His spear was missing and his heart was bust. So he made a vow lying under that sky that he’d wait for his true love to come set him free. Waiting for someone to ask for his hand. Then out of the blue comes this woman who vows forever to be by his side. And that’s the story of our corpse husband.”

As you process everything the man just told you. You feel two boney arms wrap their way around your waist and it makes you jump. And run away out of the room. You run all the way until you’re in the middle of a forest again. You recognize the forest as Hawkins but it’s different. It’s covered in vines and tentacles and it’s disgusting. But you run anyways. Until you reach that familiar bench. Your stop to take a breath and you turn around only to be met with Eddie once again.

You scream and jump back at the sight of him.

He hold his hands up in surrender. “Sorry. Didn’t mean to scare you.” He chuckles and steps forward.

“Look y/n I know this can be a lot to take. How about we just sit down on the bench and you can ask me whatever you want and I’ll tell you.”

You hesitate and then sit back on the bench.

“Okay. What is this place.”

“It’s called the upside down. It’s like Hawkins but full of creepy crawlers and nasty shit.”

“How are you all here? I mean you’re all dead.”

“I don’t know sweetheart. I wish I did.”

You sat there for a moment and took a deep breath.

“So we’re married?”

“Yupperoonie.”

“Look Eddie I’m terribly sorry about what happened to you and how you died. I really am. But I need to get home.”

“This is your home now y/n”

“Eddie you can’t be serious. I’m alive. I have a life. Family to get back to.”

“Well we can go say goodbye if you want?”

“You’d let me do that?”

“Sweetheart I’d let you do anything.”

“Well how do we get there?”

“We have to dig through the tree to get there. It’s pretty easy from our side since the tree is rotten. Getting back here to the upside down is the hard part. You’ll have to be quick so that the tree gate doesn’t close.”

Eddie stands and walks to a nearby tree where he starts ripping into it with his bare hands. Once the tree is opened he gestures for you to come over and he pretends like he’s holding the door open for you as he bows and allows you to crawl through the tree.

You come out on the other side in a normal looking Forrest near the bench you once knew. You debate on what you’re supposed to do. Deciding to tell Eddie to stay in the forest while you go say goodbye to your family when really you were going to seek out Steve and get his help.

“Eddie. I think you should stay here while I say goodbye to my family.”

“You’re probably right. I don’t think they’d be very approving of me….even if I were alive honestly.”

There’s a strange feeling of guilt in your chest when he says that. You remember him from High school and although you weren’t close you always knew him to be a nice person who happened to be a bit boisterous. If anything you found his lunch time antics entertaining.

“I’ll be back in a jif eddie.”

And with that you were off through the forest. You made your way to the Harrington estate and saw the light to Steve bedroom on. The only problem was his room was on the second floor. As you snuck around the house and looked for an entry point you stumbled upon the kitchen window where you see Mr and Mrs Harrington sat at the table having a discussion.

“I just don’t know what we’re going to do about that girl. Can’t even learn her vows.”

“You’re right. This isn’t good for our business deal.”

“Maybe we should just let Steve marry that Wheeler girl like he’d wanted.”

Upon hearing that your mind flashes to images of Nancy Wheeler and her relationship with the king Steve Harrington. Still you persist and move past the window making your way round the house to where you see some vines to grab to climb up to Steve’s room.

You carefully place your feet on the vines and begin your climb. When you reach the second floor you see Steve sitting on the edge of his bed and you can hear him on the phone.

“Yeah Nance…..I know….maybe she doesn’t want to marry me.”

He’s on the phone with Nancy? You watch as he continues to talk on the phone until you hear a loud SNAP of a branch coming from below you and suddenly you’re plummeting towards the ground.

You scream and close your eyes and brace yourself for the hard impact that doesn’t come. Instead you’re enveloped by two large arms that break your fall. You open your eyes to see Eddie holding you.

As you look up at him you realize he’s fuming. Absolutely angry beyond belief.

“Steve?”

“What?”

“Why are you at Steve Harringtons house?”

“W-well. Well he’s my fiancé.”

“But I’m your husband. And we’re leaving.”

Still in his arms he carries you back into the Forrest and through the tree to the upside down. When you get back into the upside down he sets you down and walks over to the bench and sits down and puts his face in his hands.

“And I thought this was all going so well.”

You walk up to him and place a hand on his shoulder.

“Look Eddie I’m sorry. But this just can’t happen.”

“Why not? It’s my eye isn’t it?”

“No your eye is lovely. But Eddie were just to different. I mean you’re dead.”

“You should have thought about that before you asked me to marry you.”

“Why can’t you understand it was a mistake Eddie!! I would never ask you to marry me!”

As soon as the words leave your mouth you feel instant regret as you watch Eddie slowly rise from the bench and wander off towards the town.

***

As Eddie wanders on his own he ponders his relationship with you. And the maggot in his eye pops out and slithers onto his shoulders. Eddie sits down against a wall and sighs.

“Maybe she’s better off with Mr I have a pulse. Maybe she’s right.”

“Oh that guys nothing compared to you Eddie.”

“But she’s right. I’m dead. She’s alive.”

“But did she say her vows to him?”

“Well no…. But she doesn’t leave me.”

“She just needs to see how special you can be Eddie.”

“If I touch a burning candle I can feel no pain

If you cut me with a knife it's still the same

And I know his heart is beating

And I know that I am dead

Yet the pain here that I feel

Try and tell me it's not real

It seems that I still have a tear to shed”

“Oh Eddie don’t worry she’ll come around and see the amazing man that you are.”

***

In the forest where Eddie left you, you gather some dead flowers into a bouquet and walk towards the town where you search for Eddie. You ask around to some of the dead people in town and they tell you that you can find Eddie in an old trailer on the other side of town. So that’s where you go.

When you get there you find him sitting on the porch strumming his guitar. You walk up quietly and set the bouquet on porch next to you.

“I’m sorry Eddie. I’m sorry I lied to you about seeing my family. It’s just-this day. Nothing has gone according to plan.”

He says nothing as he strums his guitar. Instead you pick up a guitar that was sitting next to him and that says “this machine slays dragons” and you begin to strum a tune similar to the one he’s strumming. And you continue to strum until you’re creating a beautiful medley together.

Eddie begins to get so into it that his boney hand detaches from his body and begins a riff all on its own and even hops onto your guitar and runs up your arm and around your shoulders. Making both you and him laugh.

“Sorry about the enthusiasm.”

“I like your enthusiasm Eddie.”

You grab the hand that’s on your shoulder and his empty wrist and you reattach the hand to his arm. When you should let it go you don’t. Instead your hand lingers there. You look into Eddie’s eyes and see him looking back at you. You clear your throat and look back down at the guitar.

“I really am sorry Eddie. I should have been honest with you.”

“Don’t worry about it y/n I get it. You’re dead and I’m alive.”

“If it’s any consolation Eddie I wouldn’t have any qualms about marrying you if you were alive.”

He laughs and sets the guitar down next to him.

“Now that I find hard to believe.”

“Really Eddie I mean it. I remember you from high school. How sweet you were to all the weird kids. How boisterous and brave you were. I mean you were amazing.”

“I was a freak.”

“Stop that. You’re not a freak Eddie. You’re awesome is what you are.”

“I’m dead is what I am.”

You’re about to say something when suddenly people are running past you and towards the forest. You stop one of them and ask them what’s going on.

“NEW ARRIVAL.”

Is all they yell at you before they continue on their way to the Forrest. When you get there everyone is excited and bustling around the way they were when you’d arrived. That’s when you see him. Tommy H. Steve’s ex best friend.

“Tommy!?” He turns to face you.

“Y/n? What the hell are you doing here?”

“What am I doing here! Tommy you’re dead? What happened?”

“Was drinking and driving and well bam now I’m here.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.”

“Yeah and I’m sorry to hear you and Steve didn’t work out.”

“What do you mean?”

“Well didnt you hear?”

“Hear what?”

“He’s marrying Nancy Wheeler tomorrow.”

Your heart doesn’t break but your chest feels a twinge of disappointment to know that you’d gone missing for a day and instead of looking for you your fiancé just moves on to another girl.

“Time to pick up the pieces and move on I suppose right y/n.” He puts a hand on your shoulder and then turns to move about the room.

You begin to think on his words. He may be right. You’ve been in this place for almost a whole day and it seems like nobody even cares that you’re gone. And the one person who does care about you, you’ve treated like absolute garbage. You walk back off alone into the Forrest and to the bench you originally started at.

You sit down and examine the wedding band on your finger. That’s when you hear Eddie’s voice in the distance.

“Oh billy what am I supposed to do? She just walked off! Are all women like this?”

Billy laughs and puts a hand on Eddie’s shoulder. “Im afraid so man. I’m afraid so. But we’ve got something to talk about man.”

You nestle up against a tree and listen closely to their conversation.

“Let me tell him!” The magot says.

“Shhhhh. Well man there’s a problem with your marriage.”

“What?!”

“Well your vows are binding until death do you part.”

“Uh huh. So?”

“Well man. Death has already parted you. You’re dead and she’s alive. Can’t work.”

“Dude if she finds out she’ll leave! There has to be something we can do!”

“Don’t worry man there’s a way.”

“What is it?”

“We have to kill her!!!”

“WHAT?!”

“Y/n would have to give up the life she had forever. She would need to repeat her vows and drink the venom of the demobats.”

“But the venom of the demobats would kill her just like it did to me.”

“Exactly Eddie. She’d be dead with you.”

You’re taken aback and shocked as you peak around the tree. Eddie thinks on it for only a moment before dropping to his knees in the forest.

“I could never ask her to do that for me.” He says in a low and quiet voice.

You look at Eddie on the ground. You think back to him in highschool and how sweet he was, you think back to him catching you earlier and saving you. To holding his hand and playing the guitar with him. And decide to step out from behind the tree.

“You don’t have to.” You say quietly as you walk up to him and offer your hand for him to stand up. He looks up at you with tears in your eyes.

“Y/n if you do this…there’s no going back. Do you understand?”

As Billy says this and Eddie stands fully you wrap your hand around Eddie’s tighter and intertwine your fingers as you look at him.

“I do.”

***

You walk back into the town and gather all the dead.

“HELLO EVERYBODY. We’ve decided to do this thing properly. So father what you can and meet us at Hawkins high school!”

Everyone is overjoyed as they begin to prepare for the wedding. Benny starts on the cake, Billy and heather are on decorations. And Barbra is helping you with your wedding dress.

You go to the town and break the window of a shop covered in vines and you find an exquisite dress to wear. Barbra does your hair and before you know it you’re meeting back at the school.

***

At the school you walk into the gymnasium to see rows of the dead sitting and facing Eddie at the altar who is now wearing a suit. On a table nearby there’s a towering cake and a lot of food.

Billy stands next to Eddie as the officiant. In his hands he holds a cup which you can only assume to be the venom of a demobat inside. Once your presence is noticed the crowd starts singing “here comes the bride.”

You take that as your queue to begin walking down the isle. As you do you look to Eddie who is smiling as he wipes a tear from his eye.

You reach the altar and stand in front of Eddie.

“Hi” you mouth at him and he mouths it back. You giggle a little.

“Dearly beloved and departed we are gathered here today to join this woman and this corpse in marriage. Living first.”

You take a deep breath and raise your hand.

“With this hand I will lift your sorrows, your cup will never empty for i will be your wine. With this candle I will light your way in darkness. With this ring I ask you to be mine.”

“Now Eddie.”

“With this hand I will lift your sorrows, your cup will never empty for i will be your wine. With this candle I will light your way in darkness. With this ring I ask you to be mine”

He places one of his own rings onto your finger. And you take off your wedding band and place it on his pinky.

You then take the cup from Billy and hold it in your hands as you look at Eddie. You go to take a sip but his hand flies to the top of your cup.

“Y/n” he whispers. “Are you sure about this?”

You take your own hand and bring it up to ciò his face.

“I’ve never been more sure of anything.”

You remove his hands from atop the cup and quickly take a swig of the venom. It burns as it goes down so badly that it makes you drop the cup from your hand as you begin to cough. Your coughing is so bad that you bend over and Eddie reaches out a hand to steady you. The pain only lasts for a moment as you collapse into his arms and see nothing but total darkness.

As you awaken you look up into Eddie big brown eyes and you reach out a now pale hand to cup his face. You realize you no longer have to breathe and you no longer have a heart beat you just feel cold.

You move to stand and he stands with you.

“You May now kiss the bride.”

Eddie looks at you for approval and you give him a slight nod before leaning in and sealing you marriage with a kiss. The crowd cheers and goes wild at the kiss and Eddie grabs you closer to him and dips you towards the floor. When he brings you back up and the two of you break from the kiss he rests his forehead against yours.

“Ready for eternity sweetheart?”

The end.

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