#the way i was bopping to the beat when the music started playing at the end of the episode

[shedontlovehuhself]

Westworld spoilers

So the park this season is gonna take place in 1920s Chicago? Okay, I'm liking this...

[matrixbearer2024]

HEYYYYY so ive been thinking, what if reader is like good at singing and one day when vox tells her he’ll be out for a meeting and then they start busting down them tunes not knowing vox came back and then after theyre done singing vox is just like “wow that sucked” (bro does NOT want to compliment them🙅‍♀️🙅‍♀️🙅‍♀️🚫🚫)

Sing-Song Shenanigans

A/N: HAHAHAHAHA I've been wanting to incorporate this into a new interlude and now this has absolutely given me the chance to- Vox at this point is practically wrapped around our dear Reader's pinkie, he's just in denial about it not to mention absolutely clueless. He compliments (Y/N) easily whenever he can pull the charm but his default is usually: "Haha lol u suck + ratio" while he not so subtly overheats and melts on the other side-

A/N: Also- this is the song Reader sings- I know the voice for Vox is outdated but the point is just it's his song that Reader sings lololol- Anyway, I hope you guys enjoy this one and as always- happy reading!

You honestly didn't know if you should've expected this or not.

For someone as egotistical as Vox-

It kind of made sense that he would've straight up written his own theme song.

You only joked about it offhandedly-

Only for him to actually send you an audio file with a song he wrote and SANG.

Did he just have the file on hand or something??

You just looked up at the TV screen dumbfounded.

"I never aired it, I was just an up and coming overlord when it was made."

Came his nonchalant reply, you could only guess he shrugged but since his face was all you saw it was just a guess.

"I'll give it a listen later, you weren't finished with your story!"

"Right, where was I?"

And just like that, you both continued talking well into the night.

You'd actually almost forgotten about the audio file when Vox disconnected and bid you good night and adieu.

But seeing it in the chats when you opened your phone reminded you.

Well, it was probably cringe and you could make fun of Vox the next time around-

So you gave it a listen.

Only for the song to be pretty catchy and good.

Like the beat was stuck in your head good.

You didn't think that would've been the case at all.

And he said he didn't air this??

What the hell Vox???

Before you knew it, the darn thing ended up playing on loop more times than you would dare recall.

Too bad you couldn't include it into your playlist since that would mean having to publish it.

And you were just not ready to have that conversation with Vox yet.

Especially when it meant admitting that you liked listening to his singing.

And fuck THAT.

You absentmindedly hummed the tune on the way to university-

While you traversed between classrooms-

Even during breaks.

It only hit you that it actually was stuck in your head when you were asked about it.

"Yoooo (Y/N), what's that new bop you're listening to? It sounds pretty good from just your humming."

"Oh uh... it's a song a friend wrote. He sent it to me to... ask for my opinion!"

"Really? Can you send it to me too? I want to give it a listen!"

At least they didn't notice your awkwardness answering their question.

But because you didn't want to make it seem even weirder-

You hesitantly agreed to let your friend listen in as well.

Only for them to seriously cement what you didn't want to hear.

"Dude! They should publish this! It's a banger!"

"Eh? You think so?"

You knew the last thing Vox needed was another ego boost.

Maybe you could just keep silent about this whole thing?

"Hell yeah! What's their name?"

Or not.

Fuck.

"Of the song-?"

"The artist you goof, what does your friend call themselves? Surely they've got to be making music for a while with this experience."

Your friends had absolutely no idea you were friends with a technology demon overlord.

Even if it was their shenanigans that summoned his presence in the fucking first place!

You still couldn't decide whether to be annoyed or grateful for that fact-

What the hell were you even supposed to tell them??

"Uhhh... Vox?"

"Vox? That's a weird name. I almost thought you said 'aux', like the aux port."

You didn't notice that before, was his name actually an alias?

You weren't even surprised at this point if it was.

"Y-yeah, it's a mix of the words voice and aux! He came up with it!"

You pat yourself on the back for that bullshit reason, who cares at this point if it was right or not-

You could always just ask Vox personally later.

"Well you should ask him if we can make a music video for it!"

"Excuse me what-"

That immediately made you blank.

Did you seriously hear that right-

A fucking music video???

Problem was, you were way too deep into this conversation to back out now.

"Yeah! It would work for the music project the school's been encouraging!"

Right... the community music program your university's been doing to help spread the names of up and aspiring artists.

Problem being how in the fucking hell were you supposed to dodge a very blatant unspoken issue.

Which was the fact the song's writer and producer had been dead for DECADES.

That and you didn't even want to think of the ego boost Vox would get if you told him that your friends wanted to make a music video of his theme song.

They didn't know about him, but you were sure it would immediately go to the overlord's head.

Could this day get any worse??

"Uhhh- yeaaaah- I'll see what I can do?"

"Come on (Y/N)! You've got to at least try and convince him! This'll be a hit once it's out!"

You hated that you agreed with the fact the song most likely would be a hit.

Especially with the new rise of electro-pop.

God fucking damn it-

So that's how you found yourself pacing your living room waiting for Vox to finish with his meeting.

Well, if you guys were to make a music video anyway... might as well practice right?

Vox was a little bit concerned when you suddenly shot him a message during a meeting asking to meet up.

Especially when he couldn't really figure out what was wrong.

You seemed just fine a while ago?

Did something happen in class?

He looked back at your messages in the chat while he wracked his brain for any clues.

"Hey uh- if you're not busy I need to talk to you?"

"Why the rush doll? Miss me already?"

"In your dreams Samsung! Something came up and I need to talk to you."

"I'm in a meeting right now but I'll see what I can do."

"Thanks."

Suffice to say, he rushed the meeting so it would end quickly.

Vox didn't really even care that there were some things that still needed polishing with the presented concept.

It was a problem he could deal with later.

First, he needed to check what was wrong with you.

So you could imagine his surprise when he saw you on his feed dancing and singing.

Had you connected your computer up to the TV while waiting for him?

Vox just silently watched your antics while a familiar tune played in the background to accompany your actions.

"So I'll corrupt, manipulate, control what they see~"

Admittedly, the overlord found himself enraptured by your movements and singing.

He really couldn't help but stare as you danced around and performed to no one in particular.

If he'd only known that you would like his music sooner-

Maybe he'd have sent you more.

"I am the master of obscuring through our technology~!"

Vox didn't really think much of the song he'd sent you the other night.

A slight nervousness hit him when he was about to sleep wondering if you'd like it-

But clearly-

He didn't need to be worried at all.

"I'll sell your every single weakness back to you for a fee!"

A part of him wanted to just appear and see if you'd notice-

But the risk of cutting your performance short stopped him from going through with it.

"Don't be a fool and stand there droolin'-"

Vox couldn't help but chuckle, well-

That line was more ironic that it should've been in this situation.

"Get those Eyes. On. Me!"

His fans whirred loudly at this point, while your dance moves were quite clumsy and even random compared to more seasoned dancers-

Vox couldn't help but think you were just friggin adorable.

"Take a chance, play my game, get the rush in your veins~"

He really tried to keep his cool-

The overlord really really tried.

But he couldn't help the stupid grin on his face when he discreetly appeared on your TV.

"I'm sending out my signal download into your brain~!"

That was when he realized your eyes were closed.

It seems like whether or not he'd have appeared you wouldn't notice.

"And I'll be conquerin' the airwaves, I'm on all of your screens-"

As much as it was his theme song, Vox felt like you could rock the vibe just as well.

Which was so hilariously disconnected that he couldn't help but softly chuckle imagining it.

Well, maybe it was about time you realized he was actually here.

"So pay up motherfuckers, you belong to Vee!"

You screamed in surprise when you heard his voice from behind you.

The direction of the speaker was far enough for you to realize your digital companion appeared on the TV.

Of course he just had to join in at the last moment!

Wait-

"HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN THERE?!"

Your face was beet red from embarrassment, he wasn't supposed to see any of that!

"Long enough, I didn't realize you liked the song that much dollface!"

You practically swore at him up and down as Vox laughed and mercilessly teased you.

He seriously could've given you any hint if he arrived!

The fucking jerk-!

"I'm not doing it for you! My friends gave a listen to your song and they want to make a music video for it!"

Vox hummed thoughtfully, he was still on his high watching you get all shy and flustered.

You were so fucking cute-

"I'll agree to it on one condition."

You were almost too scared to even ask, weighing your choices before eventually daring to inquire.

The grin the overlord gave you immediately made you regret pushing forward with it.

"Fine fine, what's the condition?"

"That you perform and sing in the music video and send it to me."

"What?! Why?!"

Vox just laughed at your expense, the fact you were practically steaming out the ears because of him was the most entertaining thing he'd seen all day.

"Why not? Can't I have a look at the final product I'm agreeing to?"

You stuttered and huffed, he had a point there.

Fucking hell....

You should've never agreed to that fucking music video!!!

"Oh shut up, you just wanna see me sing and dance."

"Not really, your performance sucked."

"Oh fuck off Vox!"

The overlord just continued to laugh at how blushy and red you got.

Maybe he did enjoy your singing and dancing.

Well, it's not like he'll ever admit it.

[just-jordie-things]

hello hello!!!!! hope ur having a good day <33

I wanted tk know if i could ask some hcs about jjk charcters (preferably inumaki and yuuta but any you want/feel like will do too!!) with a dancer s/o?? or someone who just really likes dancing and dances often. Perhaps asks them to dance with them??

Feel free to ignore it if it's not to your taste!! tyvm 🥰🥰

this is so cute but also i'm not a dancer so bear with me for some of this ok? :) dance related brainrots comin right up!!!

gojo satoru hates slow dancing. he's got nothing against bopping around to a song that's been stuck in the head, or when the rest of the club is feeling it... but ballroom dancing? slow dancing? no way. for one, it's so cheesy he could die of embarrassment. for two- he doesn't have the time to slow down that much. but for some reason, when you're playing that pretty slow song you like while doing the dishes, you catch him passing by and holding out your hand, his feet are carrying him over to you without question. but you're smiling as you wrap your other hand around his neck and pull him close. his hand finds purchase on your hip just as naturally as he'd walked over to you, and before he knows it, you're slowly rocking around in a lazy circles in your kitchen. it's all against his will, of course. it's some spell you've put on him that brings him to pull you closer and spin you like you're his princess- which you are- and cradle your head lovingly against his chest. ___

okkotsu yuuta has never tried his hand at dancing before. but then he finds you one day in one of the training rooms and you're not wearing your usual workout attire, no, today you'd decided on a slimming black leotard and pale pink tights and as his eyes travel and see a pair of ballet flats on your feet he can't help but laugh a bit. you? ruthless, nunchuck weilding, you, do ballet? you scoff at his laughter, and tell him that it actually helps to keep you limber, and balanced- all in all a better sorcerer. after some back and forth on other methods to keep you flexible, you decide to put him to the test. as it turns out, yuuta can't back down from a dare, and just like that you're guiding him through the different positions. it doesn't take long for him to realize that ballet while elegant is not easy. you work him hard for the next few hours, but at least he gets to dance with you up close and personal while you teach him ballet. and hey, maybe he'll stick with the method. ___

inumaki toge loved watching you dance. you danced all the time, and everywhere. you're doing chores? you've got headphones on and you're bopping all over the place. cooking? you're shaking our hips and mixing up a delicious smelling pot with an extra flair to your stirring. he's watched you dance around while pushing a cart at the supermarket. he assumes there must always be a beat stuck in that pretty head of yours, something to make you want to boogie. it's cute! but it's even cuter when you make him dance with you. sometimes you ask him, giving him your best puppy dog eyes and beckoning him over with your swinging hips. but even better is when you just grab him and make him join you. by his hand, by his belt loop, by the back of his neck, sometimes you just don't have the patience to wait for an answer, you need a dance partner now! no biggie, toge's never turned down a chance to swing you around in his arm or twirl and dip you dramatically... even if you are dancing to oldies in the laundromat. ___

kamo choso had never really danced before... at all. so when you find yourselves at a small event with other sorcerers, and people start to fill the open space to dance to the soft live music, you seize an oppurtunity. you can tell he's uncertain and a bit lost when he's watching people couple up to dance together, so you take his drink out of his hand, placing it aside with yours, before you take his hand again. "choso, do you want to dance?" it's so sweet he wouldn't dare refuse your offer- not when the idea of holding you close and having you hold him too makes his heart stutter in his chest. you're already starting to pull him with you to the outskirts of the makeshift dance floor when he mumbles "i don't- i've never really done this before" and you have to bite your cheek to stifle your laughter at the innocent statement. you don't have to say the words i'll show you how, he gets the gist when you place his hands at your hips. you're not doing much, just swaying side to side, moving in slow circles, and you both stay pretty far from the other dancers... but he loves it. he loves everything about it, from holding you, and getting to see how much you light up from the simple action. he hopes this event goes late into the evening, so he has every excuse to keep doing this with you.

[silentcryracha]

❍ ‗ Love Language (Skz - Hyung line) ‗ ❍

Pairings : Chan x reader, Minho x reader, Changbin x reader, Hyunjin x reader

Genre/warnings : Half headcanon and half scenarios. They all start fluffy and fun and end up suggestively/with a little smut. Regardless strictly 18+

Summary : Each member has some specific dynamics in their relationship that makes your love so special. These are some of them <3

Word count : 2.1 K

A/n : The summary and title suck I know apologies lol, just read to understand lol. Anyways have fun!

ps: There could be errors. Do NOT repost on other socials. Leave feedback if you feel like it, otherwise enjoy! ♡︎

Maknae line link

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

Chan ‗ ❍

Chan would be absolutely smitten with someone that either had his same talents with music (the whole process) or at the very least someone that is genuinely interested in what he does. He would feel very validated and happy about it , for sure.

"Oh wow is this something new?" he'd answer yes and ask if you wanted to hear it. Of course you'd say yes in a heartbeat. You'd sit on his lap and listening intently to the new sample/recording, bopping your head to it slightly along with the rhythm.

He would try play it cool but would secretly be really hopeful of your response. When you finished listening you'd say something like "That was great, Channie. I especially liked-" and then you'd go into detail about it. He would be smiling so wide I just know.

Extra bonus points if you start adding some technical specifics or took the initiative to give other ideas, keeping in mind everything that you learned from him. Now he's absolutely in awe and wouldn't be able to hide it.

Or maybe it could be a lyric draft, a new dance bit to learn, some raw vocals and so on. Honestly just any part of his work.

He can be insecure sometimes and doubt his own abilities, so I feel like he would gain so much confidence if someone that he genuinely cared about gave him positive feedback. Especially since you'd try to be always really honest with each other, he would value that a lot too.

So in short, shower him in compliments and make him all shy, he'll love that and hate that at the same time.

It could also be that maybe you're not an expert in the matter and would simply ask him to explain further his inspiration/ideas or the process behind whatever he was doing.

Either way one of you would end up impressed af and randomly go like "You know that was really hot, right?"

Next thing you know you're fucking on the studio couch. Or the desk. Or you riding him on the studio chair. The possibilities are multiple.

"So you think I'm really hot, uh?" he'd tease, making you smile breathlessly. You'd get closer to his ear and whisper "Yes. Always" making him groan.

"You seemed such an expert a few moments ago" he'd say in between thrusts, "Should we make our own beat? What do you say, uh? Can't talk now?" you'd clench around him, too out of it to respond.

"My baby is too fucked out to talk now?" he'd tease, but quickly add some sort of praise like "My good girl, so smart".

He could and would absolutely tease you to get you hot and bothered but would never miss to also shower you in praises like you do with him.

Minho ‗ ❍

I feel he's someone who would love to have a person that can easily match his energy, but also sweep him off his feet.

If he's being serious, he'd want you to also be serious. Unless it was a situation in which you know that he just needs some jokes to make him calm down. If he's in a teasing mood or maybe a rare cheesy mood, he'd like you to play along. Imagine if he decided to be really sweet and you're like "What are you doing Minho"

He would absolutely take it ten times worse that it actually is. Especially if we're talking about occasions in which he allows himself to be comfortable and play around. So don't do that please lol

He would find it very amusing if you actually managed to not only keep up with him but maybe even take it a step further. Maybe when he's making a joke or being ironic. If he's being cute and you act even cuter it would make him happy/shy. If he gets into a heated conversation and you're open to discuss it with him, he would really appreciate you speaking your mind and listening to his thoughts.

He would also get quite protective of your own feelings, wanting to demonstrate the same consideration and love to you. He'd make sure to also adapt well to your own mood or cheer you up and comfort you if you needed it. I guess we could say that trusting each other with your feelings and emotions is your love language. And that's why you work so well together; you're truly friends before you're lovers.

But again, in general he would get so giddy and excited when you do share his vibe. Would probably end up with the tension going through the roof. Sexy, angsty, funny, cute. Doesn't matter really.

And now suddenly he's having his way with you in whichever place you're in and truly keep the energy going.

"Oh you think you're funny now, uh?" would absolutely tease you for going along with him and turn it against you. Say shit like"Such a naughty girl for making such jokes" only to make you go insane.

Not in public, absolutely never in public. He's not a big fan of drawing the attention on him especially when he feels vulnerable. But once you get home, oh boy. Again, could be anywhere around the house in any moment of the day.

"Minho-" you'd try to say in between kisses, "Are you sure this is the time for this?" your tone not convincing even yourself. He'd smirk, jokingly grazing his teeth on your neck, "Why not? What, you want me to stop?" he'd tease, making you immediately say no and kiss him harshly.

Those kind of "I don't even know how I ended up here" type of situations. Insane and unhinged just like the man himself.

A joke goes too far and you're laughing a little to hard while you're doing laundry? The washing machine will do. You just got home and are too horny to think straight? The wall next to the entrance sounds good. It's a lazy evening and you're watching something on tv? The bedroom is the place. And so on <3

Changbin ‗ ❍

Changbin is probably someone who would love to have someone that he could spoil and take care of, 'baby' if you will, but would 100% do it back. I almost feel like it would be a standard for a relationship.

He is the type of man that would treat you like royalty and make sure that you're never missing anything. He wouldn't do it expecting to get anything in return, it's just really a matter of affecting and his love language.

But, it would make him very very happy if his s/o had the same type of dynamic.

For him specifically we're talking about both non material and material type of gifts/attention. Like comforting you or making you laugh when you need it, always making sure that you're comfortable and taken care of.

But also I feel like he would spoil you with gifts both randomly and in special occasions. If for example he buys you a birthday gift, it would have to be the best option that fit your taste perfectly. I also feel like you noticing it and making a comment on it like "Oh, Binnie thank you so much, it's my favorite color!" would make him extremely proud. Just in general seeing you happy and knowing that he contributed to it.

On your side, I think he would truly appreciate even the smallest and most mundane things like grabbing his jacket for him before he goes out and give him a little kiss goodbye, adding a slightly bigger portion of a food that he likes in comparison to another that he enjoys less, taking his hand/stroking his arm when he's feeling nervous to comfort him and so on.

It would make him feel loved. And a little babyed too, which I think he'd love to be honest. He'd absolutely baby you in return though, for sure.

All of these situations could easily turn into more explicit ones with the right setting or the right occasion.

For example, if we're talking about gifts, something a little kinky could be you buying a set of lingerie 'just for him'. Or the opposite. He could be the one buying you a nice necklace and comment on how he'd "Like to see you wearing only that"

Or maybe he could have a special event/professional engagement that he's feeling nervous about and you could say something like "I know you're gonna do great. My Binnie is always so good" getting closer to him adding "Make sure to do very well today too for me, okay? Just think of me waiting for you at home with a gift for you only" you'd add some touching or kissing to really seal the deal.

Good job, now you successfully turned him on. Would probably get distracted from his anxiety and go around with a shit eating grin, and of course, do absolutely great on stage. And after that he'd come come with a purpose, and that purpose was thanking you properly for giving him the confidence that he needed. And find his gift, of course.

Not even the time for you to congratulate him on his performance or say hello for that matter, that he'd be passionately kissing you. "Want to show me that little gift you were talking about, princess?" you'd smirk at him and just go "Unwrap it yourself, baby boy".

And he would absolutely do that in no time but not before picking you up and then bringing you to the bedroom to fully enjoy his gift.

Hyunjin ‗ ❍

Hyunjin is somewhat of an introvert yes, but he is also someone who can completely transform on stage, and that is thanks to confidence. Whether he's actually confident or kind of 'fakes it til he makes it', you can't really tell the difference. And that's because nonetheless he genuinely enjoys himself and has lots of fun dancing, singing and performing in general.

This is why I think that something that he would truly appreciate and find attractive in a s/o is the ability to be carefree. Doesn't necessarily mean that you couldn't be insecure or at the contrary be extremely confident. It just means that nonetheless you would be able to have fun and enjoy yourself when you're doing something you like.

For him it can be dancing, for you it can be something else. Whatever it is I feel like it would make him happy to see you truly happy. And also not take yourself too seriously. Maybe even make fun of each other from time to time.

Like when he's practicing a dance routine and being all sexy and serious and shit, maybe even purposefully make a show for you, and by the end of it you'd go "Hwang Hyunjin stop making sexy faces it's just me. Or do you want to seduce the walls?" that would probably make him laugh and instantly shift the mood. Maybe even get him a little shy, never hurts to tease.

And that's when you play it off, but there could easily be other occasions in which he would 100% try to seduce you and be successful at it.

He could be singing or dancing to a particularly 'exciting' song and somehow get you involved. Maybe whispering some lyrics with a low voice, or get you to dance/move with him finding an excuse to touch you. Or maybe both at the same time.

You could also play the same game though. Maybe one night you're feeling particularly in a good mood and just wanted to dance/sing like there's no tomorrow, so you'd try to get Hyunjin involved in your fun, usually being successful. He'd get shy at first but would slowly start to let himself go too.

In the same situation, if you were feeling in a specific mood though, you'd try your best to seduce him. Again, maybe mouthing or singing some lyrics suggestively and giving him bedroom eyes. Or dancing in the sexiest way you could manage, swaying your hips, touching your body or straight up coming onto him and teasing him up close, inviting him to put his own hands on you.

At that point the level of attraction that he was already feeling just from seeing you being so carefree and confident in having fun would straight up turn into being horny. He'd follow your movements with his hands on your body, maybe joining for a while only to explode not long after.

Any surface would do. You'd be way too drunk on each other and with way too much tension to release to think straight. "Look how messy we are right now, and who's fault is that?" he'd whisper in your ear while fucking you against the dance practice room wall.

"I have no idea" you'd tease, making him chuckle breathlessly, before bringing his head closer with your hand to kiss him deeply.

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

[intimidating-fettuccine]

I absolutely live for lighthearted fluff, so I just gotta ask- do you think there are any funny/cute habits/things the creeps have? (obvi u don’t have to do all of them, maybe just some that jump out at you) Like grabbing onto people when they’re scared, having a funny/infectious giggle (or one of those ridiculous laughs that makes other people laugh), having a high pitched girly scream, etc?

I feel like the last one def applies to Jeff because it’s like he’s got the hottest, most charming voice you’ll ever hear and then as soon as he screams he breaks the goddamn sound barrier😭😭

One lighthearted thing for every creep because I want soft hours:

Jeff: He WOULD have a high-pitched scream, but as for my own little habit headcanon for him, I think he runs in place when bored and standing. If he's waiting in line, he just starts quickly jogging in place to keep himself occupied, and it's very funny to just see him waiting in line to check out with his groceries and he's just standing there running in place with an intense look on his face.

BEN: Hacks into everyone's phones to see what items they're liking/saving to buy for themselves and he gets them those items for Christmas and birthdays.

EJ: Narrows his eyes, pins his ears back, and swishes his tail back and forth angrily whenever he's pouting or mildly annoyed. He looks exactly like an annoyed cat and it's the cutest thing. He even crosses his arms when he does it to look intimidating and it does the opposite.

LJ: Jack rarely does his actual laugh due to his depression/general facade, BUT, when you get him to fully let loose and laugh he has the most infectious, amazing laugh you'll ever hear. Eyes closed, grabbing his stomach, tears rolling down his face, and so happy and adorable.

Toby: Does a little dance every time he eats ice cream. He'll shimmy his body back and forth when he takes his first bite, close his eyes, and smile real big, humming to himself in happiness.

Tim: He's gotten into the habit of drumming on the counter with his fingers when he's cooking and waiting for things to cook. He'll thump his index fingers on the counter and bop his head along with whatever beat he's following.

Brian: Gives people bunny ears in every picture. If he's taking a photo with someone (unless Slender tells him not to for family photos) Brian will put his two fingers behind someone's head in every picture, no matter who he's taking a photo with.

Slender: Thinks aloud to himself. Normally it's not a problem because he just speaks to people through their minds, so when he's alone nobody notices. However, sometimes you'll walk past him and he's just standing there or sitting there having a full conversation or tangent to himself. It's very entertaining, and he doesn't realize he's doing it.

Liu: Whenever he gets really stressed the first thing he does is find Jeff and give him a big hug. Liu might be the older brother, but when they were little Liu would always cling to Jeff when he got stressed or anxious, and that has carried into adulthood.

Jane: Dances whenever she hears music. It's purely subconscious, but if music is playing around her, she'll do a little dance where she bounces back and forth on her feet and sways her hips, and sometimes she doesn't even notice she's doing it.

Natalie: Taps people she likes randomly. She does it to show affection, but if she's just ever hanging out with someone she likes she'll subconsciously reach out and softly, quickly tap them a bunch of times to say "I love you and I'm glad you're here."

Helen: Has the cutest sneezes. He tries SO HARD not to sneeze around people because he has really cute high-pitched sneezes, like the really adorable and cute kind. He hates it so fucking much but he's always been that way so he just tries to hide it.

Smiley: Sighs in a really funny manner. It comes out very dramatic and over the top, but his natural sigh is very high-pitched and pouty sounding, so people often teach him for his dramatics, but that's just how he sighs.

Sally: Has gotten into the habit of collecting metal pop bottle caps, so the creeps will always give her theirs for her collection. She has a special box that she keeps them in, and she always gets excited when she gets a new cap.

Offender: Cannot dab or floss correctly. He often tries to tease the younger human creeps by trying to dab or floss but no matter how many times they try to teach him how to do it, he just can't do it correctly. They always call him Dad or Grandpa when he does that to make fun of him for being old and unable to do it right.

Trender: Since tailoring is his full-time job, he has a lot of pins he often has to use, and he's gotten into the habit of collecting a bunch of different types of pin cushions. His current favorite is one that looks like a hedgehog.

Splendor: Paints new Christmas ornaments every year with him and his siblings on them to hang on his tree each year, and he makes an extra for every sibling too.

Jason: To try and improve on his trauma involving children and continue his tailoring work, he sometimes makes and donates clothing to various orphanages in the Underworld and delivers it to them himself.

Puppeteer: Jumps rope with his strings. When he's bored and by himself if he has some energy he wants to burn off he'll use his strings to jump rope with. Nobody has caught him doing this and he thinks it's a bit embarrassing, so he's never told anyone.

Zalgo: Stretches when he's getting tired. He often has to work through exhaustion a lot, so when he gets sleepy he'll do some stretches to get his blood flowing and let his muscles get stretched out so he's not tense and sitting in the same position all day.

Candy: Hums to himself a lot. Whenever he's bored or spaced out he'll hum or sing to himself to occupy his mind. If he's around his partner or one of his friends, he might even pull them in for a little dance while he hums and sings, all with a big peaceful smile on his face.

Hobo: When he gets started he poofs his wings up really big like a bird and he jumps a bit into the air, eyes wide and arms clutched to himself. It's very adorable, but make sure he's not near any valuable items or he might accidentally whack them with his wings.

Nina: Has a habit of checking in on Zalgo. She's the only official creep I've got working under him, and she worries over how much he overworks himself. Whenever she has a second of free time she's always poking into his office to make sure he's not overworking himself, and she often brings him snacks or drinks to make sure he's eating and drinking stuff since he often works around the clock.

Kate: Falls asleep in the weirdest places. She's got some sleeping problems, and she will fall asleep anywhere. The dining table, curled up in an odd position in a chair, sprawled across the couch, on the floor. She'll just plop down somewhere and she's out within minutes.

[sloth-babied]

Stay the Night

Shuri x POC reader

Summary: You’ve been keeping it a secret that Shuri’s been your muse for a lot of your music. When you decide to show her a song you’ve been working on, she starts to piece together who you’ve been writing about.

or

Reader is a musician who stubbornly denies to one of the smartest people on Earth that she isn’t your muse.

Contains: Shy reader, tension, and angst if you really squint. No use of y/n.

Word count: 1.8k

Notes: No, I am not dead! Just burnt out, yk how it is. But I had motivation to write this, so I really hope yall enjoy! Not my best work, but it’s something. And sorry for not being active. 

(Also I recommend listening to The Internet while reading just bc that’s what I listened to, hence the title lol)

Shuri stares at you as you adjust the headphones on her head, hyper aware of the proximity between the two of you. She only nods when you ask if she’s comfortable before the heel of your palm rests on the desk. Your finger hovers over the computer keyboard, reluctant to press play.

“It’s just a draft, so you know, lower your expectations.”

“Just play the song,” she laughs lightly, very much aware that this was a first draft from the numerous times you told her before even handing her your headphones.

You murmur a quick and sheepish, “Okay,” and click the spacebar. Her shoulders bounce, entertained by your apprehensiveness.

You deeply inhale as your heart starts beating faster, in contrast to Shuri who simply bops her head gently to the rhythm, the ball of her foot tapping the wooden floor.

You rarely showed anyone your early drafts, either out of worry in case they disliked what they heard, or if their enjoyment would jinx your chances of actually finishing the track. Yeah, you can be a bit superstitious—that Shuri knows with all the wood-knocking you’ve done around her.

Which is why it was uncharacteristic of you to show Shuri your latest project. 

It presented itself as an impulsive, “You wanna hear this new song I’m working on?” and you couldn’t take it back when you were met with an enthusiastic ‘yes’.

Shuri’s brows furrow, the movement of her head much more exaggerated. 

“This is good!” She compliments you loudly, tapping on one side of the headphones. You shush her humorously, reminding her of your neighbors and the lack of soundproof foam on your walls. “Sorry,” she chuckles before whispering, “This is good,” again.

It’s mostly dark in the room, the only light source in the room coming from the computer screen. The light reflects on Shuri’s skin, her eyes closed when she isn’t occasionally stealing glances at the side of your face, curious about the words you’ve written; envious of who you’ve written it for, though she’s had hopeful suspicions.

Your eyes stay glued on the screen, too embarrassed to watch the person who was, unbeknownst to her, your muse. 

Truthfully, she had been the subject of many of your songs, released and unreleased, since you first fell in love with her. That was two years ago. Perhaps it was the exhaustion from the long day or the present time of night that made the idea of sharing your music more enticing. Or maybe, subconsciously, you had to tell her how you felt without actually telling her.

Shuri hums along to the chorus, naturally catching onto the melody and you scratch your cheek in an attempt to hide your smile. You feel giddy inside at the way her body reacts—just so in-sync like she always is with the rest of your music. 

Until the song hits the bridge. 

Through your peripheral vision, it’s hard to ignore Shuri’s head movement slowing down to a halt. You catch a proper glimpse of her, only for a second, and oh, no, her face has gone blank. You feel your chest heave and now your brain is spiraling, wondering what the hell is going on in hers.

Shuri looks off, really listening this time. She flicks another glance at you before the last chorus arrives. And when it ends, she removes the headphones at a pace that perturbs you a bit…a lot actually. You’re left uneasy when she holds your headphones on her lap. She hasn’t looked at you and she hasn’t said anything yet.

“I know it’s not great,” you scratch the back of your neck then steal the headphones from her, laying them on the desk. Aimlessly, you fumble with your laptop, laughing nervously to fill the silence. “It’s just a draft. I probably won’t even finish it.”

Shuri’s still not saying anything and, christ, is it bothering you. At this point you’d rather she say it’s downright bad instead of keeping you on edge like this. But eventually she speaks, and when you hear her say your name, you initially feel like you could breathe again because she finally said something. However, that only lasts for a second.

“Is this true?” 

Your finger freezes on the mouse. You turn your head in her direction but her gaze doesn’t meet yours. You’re unsure what to say.

“What you wrote…is it true?” 

She takes the mouse from you, the feel of her hand leaving tingles on your skin. She clicks back to the beginning of the bridge before removing the headphone jack. Your voice plays on the speaker and suddenly you’re too stunned to remind her of your neighbors.

What exactly did you write? Nothing specific, or so you thought.

Then she pauses the song, an audible click coming from the spacebar, anticipatedly eyeing you. 

You shrug as an attempt to seem oblivious. (One might call it ‘gaslighting’.) 

“I write little stories for my songs,” you try to play it off. “I mean, I guess some are real, but most of ‘em aren’t, you know?” 

“You wrote about our time at the beach.” She states plainly, leaning back against her chair. She’s referring you to the secret beach you snuck her into in your hometown—a beach only so many people know of.

You glance at the notification-free lock screen of your phone on the desk; another excuse not to look her in the eye. “I take inspiration from shit in my own life.”

“And in your last album you wrote about the time we went on that hike together.” She adds. Yikes, you were hoping she wouldn’t notice that. 

“We’re lost in the woods,

I’m lost in your eyes.”

Damn your corny attempts at being poetic. You nearly cringe recalling the moment you wrote that. 

A year ago you went hiking with Shuri, and you insisted that you didn’t need any technology to navigate your way back home. You figured you’d walk back down the trail you walked up on, until you kept passing the same tree over and over again. Shuri laughed at you the entire time, comforted by the fact that she brought her Kimoyo bead bracelet with her, as you slowly started to freak out despite your refusal to admit you were wrong and maybe a map could’ve been useful.

“I hike all the time.” No, you don’t.

“No, you don’t,” Shuri shakes her head, one side of her lips tilting upwards. She leans forward and grabs the apron of your chair between your legs, rolling you closer to her until her knee hits the edge of your seat and your thighs loosely puzzle together. 

The light from the bright red motel sign across the street peaks through each horizontal slit of the blind curtain, and the cool night breeze outside lightly blows through the half-open window, lifting the curtain only a little, red occasionally sneaking under the bottom hem of the window covering. 

With the wind entering, the room should feel cool. It’s supposed to be. Yet your cheeks flush and the heat centered around your face tempts you to remove your hoodie because it’s easier to blame a jacket than the girl who’s figured you out.

You reattach your hand back on the mouse, unsure what you’d even do with it, but Shuri’s hand covers yours, your moist palm now stagnant on the object. 

“You released a single the year we met,” she says, her voice quieter than before but louder than a whisper. She doesn’t explain further. You remember the party two years ago and you know exactly what you wrote. Who are you to fool one of the most brilliant minds on the planet?

The computer screen dims, allowing you to notice the red illuminating on the back of her hand. You see red highlight the outline of her body and she stares at the red on the edge of your face. Then she looks at your eyes, your lips, then your eyes once again. Shuri slides her palm up to your elbow, her grip neither tight nor loose. 

“What are you so afraid of?” asks Shuri. 

You had spent so much of your romantic life dejected. Countless dating apps resulting in crappy dates. Or worse: friendships. Too many “The more I get to know you, the more I get friendly vibes from you”. Too many “Honestly, I don’t think I’m ready for this,” when really they realized they actually didn’t like you. Then when you knew someone in your own life who you liked romantically, the feeling—more often than not—wasn’t mutual. 

Best case scenario, you remain friends but things are only just a little awkward. Worst case scenario, they insist that things are okay then gradually ghost you. 

At this point, you were ready to give up.

“I don’t wanna…” you trail off.

She leans closer and whispers, “What?”

You stare off at anything that isn’t her. “I don’t wanna lose you.”

She leans down and tilts her face up, forcing your eyes to meet hers. She raises her brows. “Because…?”

You tuck your chin and your brows quirk. “Because?”

“I want you to tell me why you’re afraid of losing me,” she places her other hand on your armrest, trapping you, and you start stammering. “Since you do it so well in your songs.”

You can’t get anything out, though she doesn’t look away. You feel stuck, considering the numerous things you could tell her. Alternatively, you sigh. Fuck it. 

“I think I’ve told you enough,” you inhale, cupping one hand on her jaw and the other on the back of her neck before you firmly kiss her. Shuri lets out a muffled noise before reciprocating. 

And you both think, Finally.

Her body starts to sway backwards as you press against her, however she pushes you back against your chair. Her hands grab the sides of your face—one hand under your hood and the other over—refusing to let go now that she’s on her feet. Her upper body bends down just so her lips can live on yours, and a chuckle escapes both of you when your chair rolls backwards, almost hitting the wall behind you.

Admittedly, you enjoy sitting as she envelops your lips, but you decide to stand. Your hands slide down to her waist as you slowly walk her backwards until her legs meet the edge of your bed and she ends up landing on her bottom with her elbows supporting her weight as she gazes up at you, several red horizontal lines covering her body.

God, you can’t believe this is happening. You can’t believe Shuri wants you as much as you want her. Everything feels…unreal. Dream-like.

“Come here,” she pulls your wrist and you land on top of her. The bed bounces beneath you as her hand slithers up to your neck, drawing you in for a chaste kiss. She catches you in your thoughts. “You okay?” Is this okay? 

You nod, still admiring her below you. You whisper, “I didn’t think you’d…pay attention. To what I wrote. I didn’t know you were listening like that.”

Shuri caresses your neck with her thumb. She takes note of the neon blue light illuminating half of your face from a bar sign also across the street, below the motel sign. 

She kisses your cheek, your chin, then your lips once again. “I’ll always listen to you.”

[btsqualityy]

BTS Dating Series #14: First Time You See Him Perform

Members x Reader

Genre/Rate: 18+, fluff

Summary: Your first time seeing your boyfriend do what he does the best.

Warnings: None to note.

Kim Seokjin

“You sit here, Jagi,” Jin murmured as he led you over to a chair that was set up on the side of the Music Bank stage and waited until you had sat down on it before he squatted down in front of you. “You sure you’re gonna be ok here?”

“Jin, stop worrying,” you giggled as you reached out and mushed his cheeks, laughing harder when he spluttered and shook his head back and forth rapidly. “I’m the one that wanted to come and watch your music show taping, remember?”

“I know but the day can get kind of long sometimes so I just wanted to be sure,” he explained.

“I’m good, promise,” you assured him before leaning forward and pressing a quick kiss to his lips. “Go do your thing.”

“Alright,” Jin nodded before standing up straight and walking over to join the other members as they made their way on stage. Once they were in their places, “Just One Day” began to play and you smiled as they began to sing. You found yourself bopping your head along to the beat and mouthing the fanchant along with the ARMYs in the crowd.

Once Jin’s part came in the bridge, you couldn’t help but to giggle as Jin held out the rose and winked towards the camera. Throughout your relationship with Jin, it often felt like he loved to torture you by being the most charismatic man on Earth but watching him on stage, you realized that he only felt comfortable enough to show off in front of ARMYs, his members, and now you as well. That thought made you smile to yourself and before you knew it, the song had ended and the members thanked the ARMYs that came to watch before filing off stage.

“What did you think?” Jin asked after making his way over to you.

“Perfect,” you praised him. “Absolutely perfect.”

Min Yoongi

“He didn’t tell me that they were doing this song,” you muttered to yourself from your spot standing backstage when the beginning of your favorite song, Tomorrow, started to play. The group was in Tokyo, performing at the Dome stadium and you were more than happy to come along with Yoongi when he invited you to come watch. 

When it got to Yoongi’s rapping part, you found yourself falling silent as he began to recite the lyrics. The song always resonated with you, the reality of “adulting” having hit you hard once you got into your 20s. You appreciated how honest Yoongi and the rest of the members were about what it was like being a young adult attempting to figure out your spaces in life, which is why Tomorrow had easily become one of their favorite songs of yours. 

“Like breaker,” you shouted out the lyrics, bobbing your head along as the performance went off without a hitch. Once they finished, it was time for a costume change and just as he had with the previous two costume changes, Yoongi spent his talking to you. 

“You didn’t tell me Tomorrow was on the set list,” you mentioned and Yoongi shrugged with a smug smile on his face.

“Didn’t feel the need to,” he replied and you just rolled your eyes playfully before leaning over and pressing a kiss to his lips. 

“Thanks,” you said, already having a good hunch that he had purposefully included the song for just you.

“You’re welcome,” Yoongi smiled softly. 

Kim Namjoon

“ARMYs, how you feeling out there?!” Namjoon shouted into the microphone, receiving a wave of almost deafening screams in response. The group was on tour and were currently stopped in London, where the show had been going perfectly. You were standing backstage, watching with a large smile as your boyfriend commanded the stage for his solo song. 

“As many of you know, this is the part where I do my solo song Trivia: Love,” Namjoon began. “And I thought I’d give you guys a little background on the song. I always thought of myself as a person who would have a hard time giving and receiving love in a romantic relationship but that all changed about seven months ago. I met someone and she’s here tonight.” The crowd cheered loudly and you felt your cheeks heat up from being put on the spot. 

“I’m not entirely sure where she is right now because I haven’t seen her since before the concert started,” Namjoon chuckled. “But Y/N-ah, you’ve given me a love that I thought was only possible in books and movies. You’ve changed me for the better and I feel so lucky to have you in my life. This song is for you, literally and metaphorically. Here’s Trivia: Love!”

Throughout the whole song, you couldn’t keep the smile off your face as the lyrics Namjoon had written took on a whole new meaning for you. By the time Namjoon had come backstage to change after his solo and the next medley with the rest of the members, you were a teary eyed mess. 

“Was that ok?” Namjoon asked as he cupped your face in his hands. “I know I didn’t talk to you before hand but it just felt right in the moment and I-”

“Joon, it was absolutely perfect,” you assured him, nodding your head up and down rapidly. “And I love you too.” 

Jung Hoseok

“You sure you’ll be ok out here in the crowd by yourself?” Hobi wondered and you nodded your head. The two of you were at the All Force One festival, where Hobi and Yoongi were getting ready to join Namjoon on stage as his special guests. 

“Stop worrying Mom, I’m good,” you teased, making him roll his eyes. 

“Sue me for being concerned about you,” he grumbled. “If you need to take a breather though, our manager is right by the stage. I already asked him to look out for you.”

“I will, I promise,” you nodded. “Now, go.” After pressing a quick kiss to your cheek, Hobi disappeared into the crowd and you passed the time of the intermission by sipping on your drink. Namjoon came back on stage and after talking a little bit, Cypher pt. 2 started and Hobi and Yoongi came out on stage. The crowd went wild and you had to admit, you were a little taken aback by how excited everyone was. You and Hobi had known each other for almost two years by this point and had been dating for around six months, but this was the first time you saw Hobi in his element. 

He was so confident, even though he hadn’t been rapping as long as Namjoon and Yoongi had, and you couldn’t take your eyes off of him. Not that you were trying though, because he was fantastic. 

Once the show ended, you pushed your way through the crowd and ended up making your way backstage where Hobi was talking to Namjoon and Yoongi. 

“You did so good!” You squealed as you bounded over and hugged him tightly. 

“I guess your first show surpassed your expectations then, huh?” Hobi chuckled. 

“You have no idea,” you smiled. 

Park Jimin

You wrapped your arms around yourself, attempting (and failing) to stay warm in the cold December air in New York. You were in the heart of Times’ Square on New Years’ Eve, waiting to watch Bangtan perform for a New Years’ Eve special.

“You doing ok, baby?” Jimin checked with you and you nodded your head even though you could feel your toes getting cold. 

“I’m good. Excited to finally see you perform live,” you smiled. 

“I’ll try to do well for you,” Jimin told you before pressing a soft kiss to your cheek. Just then, one of the managers called out to him so Jimin walked over to join the group and you bounced in place to try to get your blood flowing.

“Now, here with their songs ‘Make It Right’ and their smash hit single ‘Boy With Luv’, here’s BTS!” Ryan Seacrest announced and the crowd went wild as Bangtan stepped onto the stage. After doing a little snippet of Make It Right, they quickly moved into Boy With Luv and you found yourself automatically singing along to the words. Jimin was doing an amazing job, the dance moves flowing effortlessly through his body as he sung beautifully. 

Towards the last chorus, Jimin moved into his position in the center but somehow, his jacket that he was wearing ended up getting stuck on top of his head. Instead of panicking, he went with it, making funny faces at his members which caused them to laugh as well. He ended up fixing it and the song ended, to thunderous applause from the ARMYs in the crowd. 

“You did so good!” You praised as you met Jimin as he walked off stage and he just sighed heavily.

“I messed up with my jacket,” he pouted. 

“Hey, you still sounded great,” you assured him. “And it was so freaking cute.”

“You think?”

“Absolutely,” you stated firmly, making him smile before he kissed you passionately. 

Kim Taehyung

You stood behind the large camera that was placed on the television set, watching with a smile as Bangtan performed their latest title track for a London-based television show. Taehyung had invited you along to watch and you couldn’t help but to be in awe of how grand the production was. 

You hadn’t really seen Taehyung perform with the full group before and now that you were, you couldn’t help but to kick yourself for dragging your feet on it so long. Taehyung was amazing, his movements subtle and strong and that gorgeous, velvet voice of his had you in an almost trance-like state. 

“And let’s give it up for BTS!” The host said once the song ended and you clapped as softly as you could (since you were right behind the camera) as the members took a bow. After the light that showed the camera was rolling went off, the group stepped down off of the stage and began to make their way backstage. Taehyung instantly paced over to you, wrapping his arm around your waist as the two of you started to walk together. 

“You did amazing Tae,” you gushed. “I was literally in shock and awe.”

“Really?” Taehyung chuckled. “You can tell me the truth, you know? You don’t have to flatter me.”

“I wouldn’t lie,” you giggled. “Honestly, I loved it.”

“Well, I love you and I think that’s more important,” he cooed, leaning over and brushing his nose against the side of your head.

“You’re gross,” you huffed, even though your heart warmed from his words. 

Jeon Jungkook

“You ready for this?”

“Yes.”

“Are you sure?”

“Jungkook,” you laughed. “I’m just going to watch the show from backstage. You’re acting like I’m the one about to perform for thousands of people and not you.”

“Hey, I just wanna make sure you’re ready for all the talent you’re about to see up there,” Jungkook smirked, making you roll your eyes playfully. You were on tour with Bangtan and this show in Berlin was going to be the first time you saw Jungkook live on stage. 

“You just worry about getting up there and doing good,” you told him as you cupped his face before pressing a firm kiss to his lips. “Yeah?”

“Yeah,” he nodded before kissing you again. Just then, the members got the notice that it was almost time for them to go up on stage so after a third and final kiss, Jungkook pulled away from you and went to get into his position. You moved over to watch the show from a screen and you saw the lights on the stage come on after the end of the VCR. 

The music came on and the stage began to lift into the air, the sounds of the cheering from ARMYs almost becoming deafening. Once the stage lifted, Jungkook opened his mouth and began to sing the first lines of the song. You mouth dropped open slightly as you literally watched him transform from the boyfriend you saw all the time in your apartment to the Golden Maknae. 

“Holy shit,” you gasped, a smile spreading onto your face as you watched him come alive. 

..............................................................

Tag List:  @addictedtohobi @brittneymccray @cursedcursives @arata18nanami @leftieaquarius @devilsbooksworld @starmyy @werewolfbanshee-love @li-moonchild-il @kpop-servant @cheysjimin

[cocogrrrl]

four times kyle says he loves you, one time he actually does say it

kyle's not the biggest romantic in the world, but sometimes he unintentionally is as well.

kyle broflovski x gn!reader no cws wc: 1183

an: tooth-rottingly sweet! i have like four 3k+ word fics in my drafts right now so stay tuned for that if you're interested!

One.

Often, you’ll find yourself in bed at night alone. In the morning, you’ll feel the lack of warmth as well. Needless to say, your boyfriend, Kyle, had a hectic schedule. 

You try to stay up and wait for him. Sometimes, he does come, but rather late. Most of the time, however, you end up falling asleep first. 

You understood why, though. He wanted to work extra hours for extra pay to have some money to support himself, his interests, and your place. I mean, you did work too, but Kyle was rather nervous about having inadequate money. You tried to convince him that you two were alright, but he decided against that.

Recently, things were a little more different. You found him coming home earlier than usual and leaving work a little later. You were grateful, for sure, but what was going on?

“Hey, Kyle?” You called, both of you in bed. He hummed in response, turning his head to look at you. “I’ve noticed you’ve been going home early and leaving for work a lot later than usual. Did you get a promotion or something? Sorry if you told me, I may have forgotten…” You scratched the back of your neck, chuckling.

“Oh, I didn’t get promoted or anything,” he shuffled closer to you, giving you a peck on the cheek that sent tingles through your skull. “I just thought you were right. I shouldn’t be working myself up over nothing, you know?”

“I didn’t mean it in a bad way,” you said, your eyebrows scrunched up as you were visibly upset since you thought you hurt his feelings. “I was just worried you were overworking yourself.”

He chuckled at your kindness. “I mean that too, but don’t worry, love,” he whispered, pulling you by the chin and nudging his nose with yours. “Above all, I missed spending time with you.”

Two.

You were snuggled up against Kyle, your head on his shoulder as you both indulged in your favorite activity—watching shitty movies and laughing at how shitty they are.

Currently, you two were watching a horrible, low-budget remake of Kung Fu Panda. As your mind was being bored by the eye-numbing movie, you didn’t notice your body suddenly being pulled.

Before you could even process it, your lips were on Kyle’s. You were caught off guard, so you caught yourself holding onto him. The kiss was relatively short, though, but you two could feel the smiles on each others’ lips.

When you both pulled away, you asked, “What was that for?” You chuckled.

“Nothing, I just desperately needed to kiss you.”

Three.

You were lying down on the couch, mindlessly scrolling on your phone. Kyle was by the dining area right beside your living room, sorting out some important papers. To fill in the empty space of your room, Kyle figured to play some music to help him loosen up.

Out of nowhere, Michael Jackson’s Rock With You started to play. You were initially taken aback, surprised to hear this in Kyle’s playlist. However, you didn’t mind it one bit, even bopping your head to the intro.

Before the chorus, you felt something lean over you. It was Kyle with his hand stretched to you, offering a dance. You could tell he was embarrassed, seeing the blush scribbled all over his face. You knew Kyle wasn’t fond of dancing, so you were so about to take the offer.

You gladly took his hand in yours, gracefully leaping out of the couch as much as you could (which wasn’t that much, but the execution didn’t matter in this situation!). You engulfed yourself in his arms as you guys swayed to the beat, not caring how horrible either of you looked… gyrating?

Anyways, let’s just say that Kyle ended up getting distracted by the fun you two were having and finished the papers much later that night.

Four.

You quietly entered your shared apartment, taking off your shoes by the entrance then treading to your room with the lightest steps possible so as to not wake your boyfriend up—just in case he was already asleep.

You opened the door, hoping it wouldn’t creak. The lights were still open, though, Kyle’s head turning to the doorframe, which was where you stood.

“Hi, dove,” he greeted with a smile. “I got you something.” He rose from the sheets and reached into his closet, holding two shirts in his hands.

He handed the other shirt to you, exactly your size. The top was mostly plain white, but in the middle were two rats cuddling with a text over it saying, “me and my partner :3”.

You deeply remember what this shirt was referencing. You were showing Kyle a photo on your phone. The photo was exactly the one on the shirt. You said something about how silly it would be if you two had matching shirts with text above it saying “me and my boyfriend” or something written above.

Kyle originally dismissed the idea. He knew you were joking, but he stated that he wouldn’t know how to pair the shirt with his wardrobe. Honestly, neither did you if you were to have the shirt, but you’d find a way to make it work.

That’s why you were surprised to see him gifting you something he didn’t really like.

“I thought your idea was kinda cute, and I went ahead and had it printed.” He awkwardly chuckled, cringing at his weak skill with graphic design. Visuals and art were never his strongest suit. The shirt, though, looked quite adorable either way!

You quickly wrapped him in a hug. “I love it so much. Thanks, dear.” You felt all around giddy. Your senses were tingly and your smile couldn’t express just how happy you were.

Five.

It was around 6 PM. You and Kyle had spent a whole day at an amusement park. By now, the energy that you two had earlier had been completely burned out. So now, he and you were inside the capsule of a Ferris wheel.

You sat beside each other, wearing your matching rat-cuddling shirts, enjoying the silence between you. You were staring at the view before you as you rose higher and higher. You held onto a stuffed toy he won at a carnival game for you an hour or two ago. Kyle, however, wasn’t focused on the view you were dazed at. His eyes were only focused on you.

You felt his eyes pierce through you, even if you yourself couldn’t see it. You turned behind, looking at him “What is it, Kyle?”

“You’re so pretty. I don’t think you understand how much I love you.” He said mindlessly. He seemed shocked by what he said once the words registered in his mind.

You giggled at his words, pulling his face closer to yours by the jaw. It was enchanting to see him get lost at just the sight of you. “Oh, but I think I do.” You whispered against his lips, giving him a peck on it before you two exited the Ferris wheel, holding hands.

[supernovafics]

making a mixtape for boyfriend!eddie

wc: 730

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。. .・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

“i don’t know if i should trust this since you titled it “awesome mix volume one.””

“shh, don’t make fun, or you’ll never get a volume two.” 

eddie nodded and smiled at you before overdramatically making a show of “zipping his lips shut,” which only made you laugh and roll your eyes.

over the past few months of you two dating, you fell into an almost weekly pattern where eddie would play new albums for you and always make you mixtapes as ways to introduce you to his favorite bands and artists; which made sense because he loved music. and maybe you didn’t like every single song he showed you, but you loved the happy smile he’d get on his face as he played you something that you hadn’t heard of and talked about a specific instrumental part or lyric of the song.  

you were a little different, you had other things that you’d drone on and on about— things that if it was anyone else eddie wouldn’t have necessarily found interesting, but just hearing you talk about it made it interesting to him. he could listen to you talk about your favorite book or some old movie you watched for forever. 

these little differences between you two were probably one of your favorite parts about your dynamic. 

things slightly changed last week— eddie wanted you to make him a mixtape. it was a request that slightly surprised you, but you of course did it anyway. 

“okay, so there’s not, like, one genre or whatever on this, it’s kinda a little bit of everything. just some songs i’ve liked for a while and more recently, and some remind me of you and us. i think i did, like, twelve songs. i can’t fully remember now–”

eddie stopped you mid-ramble with a kiss on the cheek. “just play it, sweetheart.”

you grabbed the tape from him and got up from his bed, placing it in the tape deck of his stereo and pressing play before settling back and sitting across from him. 

seconds later, the opening beats of sos by abba started playing and eddie smiled amusingly at you. “abba?”

“no questions or judgements until the end,” you told him seriously; well, as serious as you could with your boyfriend smiling at you. “just enjoy the music, munson.”

he nodded, a smile still on his face, as one of his hands started absentmindedly stroking your knee. you were wearing his hellfire t-shirt and a dark pair of his boxers; you always liked being in his clothes when you were spending the night at his place, and seeing you wear anything of his always made him fold. he would’ve been on you in an instant, kissing your lips and then finding that certain spot on your neck that always made you giggle, like he did most nights, if you two weren’t already doing this. 

when the song went from abba to sweet dreams by eurythmics, eddie wanted to say something teasing but he didn’t because he knew that he would only receive a playful scolding or eye roll from you in response.

he ended up liking the queen and tears for fears songs you put on the tape, but what he enjoyed the most was admiring you, watching as you bopped your head along to the beat or mumbled some of the lyrics. in all honesty, he barely paid attention to most of the songs playing, it was too hard. you looked too adorable and that was all he really wanted to focus on. 

he wanted to commit this entire moment to memory. 

the last song that played was another one by abba, gimme! gimme! gimme!, which felt like a full circle kind of moment, and you didn’t make any move to grab the tape once it stopped. 

“so, should i start working on volume two?” you asked playfully as you scooched closer to your boyfriend, letting your knees bump his and reaching out to grab one of his hands. 

he only leaned in and kissed you in response. it was slow and sweet and he practically pulled you into his lap in the process.

you smiled at him when you pulled back a bit to catch your breath. his hand was still cupping your cheek and your lips ghosted over his as you spoke. “i’ll just take that as a yes.” 

[anidrawsfanart]

LEAKED SCRIPT OF THE FINAL SCENE FROM MD EPISODE 8 (REAL NOT CLICKBAIT) ‼️

N: We did it guys! We solved a way to stop the absolute solver!!! And Tessa and Doll sure had it coming! Haha!….oh?….I hear a song coming on!!! Hit it Uzi!

Uzi: You got it N! Let’s party!!!!

* Can’t stop the feeling by Justin Timberlake starts playing as the drones come to the dance floor and bust a move like if they were in Hotel Transylvania*

V: This is my Jam!!!

Thad: Jam??? Where???

Lizzy: haha there’s no jam Thad!

In the corner of the room, we see Doll with her arms crossed, seemingly grumpy and uninterested as she taps her foot up and down to the beat. Tessa is next to her, siting on a chair tied up in rope as she bops her head to the beat

But then all of a sudden….sentinels broke down the door and entered the room, as everyone gasped , the sentinels stopped when they heard the music, then, they also danced Hotel Transylvania style

Uzi: Oh….I guess even sentinels like to bust the move!

Everyone laughed as they all continued dancing

* J flew in just in time for the party *

J: hey! don’t start a dance party without me!!! Check this out!

* J breaks it down as everyone forms a circle around her, hyping her up *

Khan: heyyy guyyys look at what I’ve found!

Khan pulls out an old camera and passes it to the teacher to take a picture

N smiles as he gathers Uzi, V, J, Thad and Khan

N: Alright gang! On the count of three!

“One…two…three…Murder Drones forever!!!”

They all jump into a freeze frame as the camera clicks, the music fades as the screen turns to black.

* Roll credits *

[kimchikrust]

how yn and c!bkg first met to dating (a love story). mdni

-

bakugou hated going to the gym in the afternoon. it was too crowded; there were never any benches, or squat racks, or sometimes weights. he growled under his breath as his eyes scanned the last area of space. what was usually open because of being in the back of the gym, other students were taking up the space (which surprised him because there weren’t any mirrors along the wall, and these guys must be desperate too). bakugou was starting to think it might just be a bad day at the gym before his eyes settled on the three plates racked on either side of three barbell. there’s someone he could hop in between sets with.

his eyes landed on the shorter girl sitting on top of the plates, wearing spandex shorts and a pump cover (massive shirt that hides the gains). she had headphones fitted over her ears and her head was bopping to the beat of whatever she was listening to. bakugou decided to leave her alone and find a different spot.

he ended up not seeing her again for the rest of his workout, to his slight disappointment. but he shrugged it off and chugged his protein shake while leaving the gym. he forgot about it within hours.

a week later, kaminari tells him that he’s going to have friends over, and bakugou knows what that means. kaminari only ever had friends over when he wanted to smoke weed. while bakugou didn’t care that kaminari smoked, he wasn’t interested in indulging himself, so kaminari opted to just invite other people over for a smoke sesh.

bakugou was closest to the front door when kaminari’s guests arrived. when he pulled the door, his glare dropped for a moment as he came face-to-face with the girl from the gym. this time, she was wearing a massive sweater and comfortable, stretchy pants.

“bro, what are you doing? invite them in,” kaminari’s voice broke bakugou out of his trance. he silently stepped back to allow the girl and two other individuals he already knew inside.

“feeling alright, bakugou?” ashido asked curiously as she walked by.

“yeah,” he mumbled, stretching his arm as he scratched the back of his neck.

“i’m yn,” she girl spoke up, sending him a little wave. “nice to meet you.” she came off distant, but bakugou noted her politeness.

he huffed. “you idiots smoking?”

“duh,” kaminari drawled before smirking. “why? you wanna join us?”

“no.”

kaminari shrugged, anticipating that answer. “let us know if it gets obnoxious, alright? i’ll try not to stink up the rest of the place.”

bakugou moved to his room to study, knowing from experience that the smell never managed to reach his room. after about an hour, he heard the group of them in the kitchen, their hushed voices and muffled giggles told bakugou they got the munchies and opted to stay in his room until it went quiet outside his door.

it was dark by the time he stepped outside his room, desperate to reach the bathroom. the apartment was quiet, apart from the soft music playing from kaminari’s room. as he walked back to his room, he noticed the light in the kitchen flickering. he mentally cursed the dying bulb he’s been meaning to fix as he enters the kitchen to turn the light off.

his arrival makes yn jump as she’s mid-bite into a cookie. she’s leaning against the counter, hovering over a nearly empty tray. he noticed her eyes were red immediately, and her pupils were slightly dilated.

“oh, i thought you went to sleep,” yn said as she chewed.

“where are the other idiots?”

“they clunked,” she answered, rolling her bright red eyes. her eyelids looked heavy from the way they rested half-lidded. bakugou frowned, searching through his brain to decipher what she meant. “they knocked out. fell asleep.”

bakugou scoffed, glaring at her as he crossed his arms over his chest. he noticed how short she was now that he was finally looking at her. “why not just say that then?” he huffed.

she shrugged, unbothered by his disapproval. “i think it sounds boring.”

“well you sound ridiculous.”

“i don’t remember asking.” she had a bit more bite in her tone and bakugou realized he liked hearing it.

“too bad” he answered, matching her intense glare as she struggled to find something to retaliate with. but the remark never came. yn leaned back and focused her attention on the half-eaten cookie.

“is this some ritual you do with the friends kaminari invites over?” she asked suddenly, tone flat and expression unreadable. “your way of asserting your dominance or whatever?”

“what?” bakugou scoffed. “i don’t need to assert dominance, this is my home. if i wanted your ass gone, i’d put you out myself.”

yn pursed her lips and nodded, seemingly pleased with his honesty.

“so what’s your major?” she asked after a moment of silence, surprising bakugou.

“chemical engineering,” he grumbled. “yours?”

she beamed at his participation, preparing for a dead conversation. “marketing, with a minor in international business.”

bakugou nodded, unsure of how to respond to that. he didn’t know anything about either.

“i saw you at the gym last week,” he blurted out as he noticed her reach for her phone. successfully pulling her attention back onto him, he briefly wondered why he was still talking to her.

“you did? what was i doing?” yn asked with genuine intrigue. bakugou kinda enjoyed the full, undivided attention that she gave him.

“hip thrusting,” he answered, recalling how the plates first caught his attention. “i was impressed by the weight.”

“why didn’t you say anything?” she laughed airily.

“you were in the middle of your workout. i wasn’t going to interrupt.” he leaned against the fridge as he was getting tired of standing in the open space.

“I guess.” yn shrugged, mulling over her next words. “do you go to the gym a lot?”

bakugou gave her a look and raised his arm up to flex his massive bicep. “do you really have to ask?”

yn fought her smile and tried to come off annoyed by his apparent complex. “whatever. how come i’ve never seen you around before then?”

“i prefer going in the morning when no one’s there.”

that got her excited. “oh, i’ve always wanted to go early, but no one ever wants to go with me.”

“you can go when i go, just don’t follow me around,” he suggested, freezing in his spot as he realized what he just did. inviting some random girl he just met to the gym with him? what the hell is wrong with him?

fortunately for him, the smile yn gave him didn’t reach her eyes as she said, “we’ll see.”

their conversation was cut short as sero stumbled out of the room and entered the kitchen in search of water. he barely acknowledged bakugou as he eyed yn with a devious expression.

“you look like you need another bowl,” he said playfully, causing her to laugh heartedly.

“well, if you’re offering to pack for me…?” bakugou felt a flare of jealousy towards the wide smile she was giving his long-time friend.

sero scoffed an ‘of course’, before dragging you back into kaminari’s room. abandoning bakugou in the kitchen under the flickering light.

-

bakugou didn’t see yn for awhile after that first interaction. he only noticed because he’d think of her whenever the apartment smelled like weed. he wondered if yn had been over, or hoped she was still in kaminari’s room and he’d run into her in the kitchen like before. he didn’t understand why he was so interested in her, specifically. kaminari had brought other girls from outside their group of friends before, and bakugou hadn’t paid them any attention.

the next time he saw her, kaminari was throwing a kickback in their apartment. his best friend, eijiro decided to attend, which left bakugou without an excuse to get out of joining the fun.

bakugou was on his fifth seltzer by the time he realized yn was in his apartment again. with a nice buzz going, he felt confident enough to approach her. she must have been familiar with the difference between a kickback and a party because she was dressed in comfy clothes natural makeup. she had a cup in her hand and a lit joint between her fingers as she engaged in conversation with eijiro.

“hey,” he grumbled, stepping up to them.

yn chuckled in amusement. “not having fun?”

“they made sure i couldn’t leave the apartment and i’m locked out of my room.” that was an exaggeration, but the intrigued expression that yn gave him was priceless. bakugou quickly caught on to her more guarded personality this time around. probably because there were a lot of new people she’d come across tonight, and not everyone would stick. “haven’t seen you around,” he commented as he watched her take a drag, appreciating when she turned her head to blow smoke in another direction,

“i’m surprised you cared enough to notice.” bakugou understood what she really meant.

“our conversation was cut short.” he shrugged, playing it off casually. “i was looking forward to continuing it.”

she stared him skeptically, with a playful smile on her lips. the way her eyes rested on him, however, made him feel like he was about to get set up. “tell me what you actually want, and i might entertain it.”

there was a sultry way to how she said it that made bakugou shiver. he wondered if she was only interested in a hookup, but she clearly appreciated honesty, so it wouldn’t hurt him to confess. he was undoubtedly buzzed enough to.

“i’d like to take you on a date,” he answered clearly. from the way yn’s eyes widened, it was obvious she was expecting something else. that sent a wave of panic through bakugou.

“okay,” yn gasped eagerly, quickly getting over her stupor. “sorry, i wasn’t expecting that,” she laughed sheepishly. “usually, the fairly attractive guy isn’t interested in anything more than a hookup.” that made bakugou frown. what type of assholes were you used to?

“is there anything specific you’d wanna do?”

he let her ponder over it for a moment before she started chewing on her bottom lip.

“maybe we could go to the gym and get something to eat after?” for the first time, yn sounded nervous, almost unsure of herself for her suggestion.

bakugou gave her a gentle smile.

“sounds perfect.”

[reginageorgesgirlfriend3020]

Sam Carpenter as your girlfriend headcannons (Part 17)

She started to love rap music whenever you played how we do by 50 cent and the game

She loves the beat

She loves jazz music and classic music and some rock music but when the beat is right she bops her head to the songs you listen to the most

She loves how soft and smooth your skin is

Especially when Sam runs her finger tips across your thighs while cuddling you

She’s obsessed with your thighs she loves them

Sam thinks about you all day

She has a couple different ways to make you feel like her queen that you are

When you and Sam go out for ice cream and you want your favorite ice cream you’ll ask, “Can I get chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream?”

Sam hugged you. “You can get whatever you want babe”. She knows it’s cold in the ice cream shop and ice cream makes you cold so she hugs you to keep you warm

Sam will never fool you into thinking she doesn’t feel the same way you do about her. When she says she loves you she means it!

[curawrites]

Touya (Dabi) with an alt girlfriend

Touya (Dabi) x fem! Alt! Reader

Warnings: simping, swearing, slightly ooc characters, hickeys and marking, kissing, making out, Endeavor.

Note: haven’t been into Bnha since like 2020 so I ignore the manga. Kind of crappy but I love this 💚

Quirk: bat - reader has bat wings and ears can echo locate and uses the echolocation to stun enemies.

He met you in college, as you were both taking the same music class. You caught his eye as soon as he walked into the class, dressed in all black, fishnet, pierced ears and bopping your head to a song you were playing to loud from your headphones, a tune he recognized. He sat two seats from your left, hoping you’d notice him from the corner of your eye and talk to him.

It didn’t take long for you both to start bonding over your shared music taste. Friendship came quickly with the amount of time you spent together, listening to music or even making music in either of your rooms, you often went out shopping together, something Touya would have never thought he would enjoy.

It was easy for him to be around you, not needing to hide his interest or toning himself down like he did around his family. He found himself loving to be around you, it scared him at first, the butterflies in his stomach, the way he started to sweat when you sat close together, the way his heart beat quickened when your leg or arm brushed against his.

You eventually confessed to him one late night.

The chilly breeze made your wings shiver as you took another drag from you cigarette. The muffled sound of the song playing from inside your dorm made the whole moment surreal.

You glanced at Touya, who was standing to your right also smoking. You couldn’t help but take a moment to admire his features. His blue eyes deep like the ocean stared off into the night, the three piercings on his nose shone in the moonlight, his hair dyed black with white roots starting to show, you’d have to help him redye it soon. He was oh so pretty.

Sensing your staring Touya looked over at you, “Got something on your mind, doll?” He asked.

The pet name made you roll your eyes fondly, “Just thinkin’..” you trail off.

“About what?” He leaned in closer, curious now.

A shy smile graced your black lips, “About how much I like you.”

Touya rolled his eyes and scoffed playfully “I’d sure hope you’d like me, we are.. friends..”

“Touya.. I like you a lot. Like more.. Way more than friends.” You looked away, nervous about his response.

“Doll..” your ears twitched, “I like you a lot to..” he replied a bit awkwardly before stroking your cheek.

One thing for sure, he didn’t sleep on the matress you put on the floor for him that night and he never did again.

Touya absolutely loves being with you, kissing you eagerly before class, hands touching you all over and gripping your fishnet tights. He loves how you’d grab onto his chain in return.

He practically lives in your dorm, his clothes and things are everywhere.

He has purposefully cut holes in his shirts just so your wings can fit in them, every time you wear his shirts he goes feral.

He loves covering your neck and body in hickies, he’s very possessive over you. He loves when you mark him to, he doesn’t try very hard to hide them.

Please bite this man, he loves seeing your little fang marks all over his neck and chest.

You help him do his makeup in the morning, just smudging black eyeshadow on his eye lids and lower lash line.

As well you also help him retouch his hair when his roots start to come in. It became kind of an intimate thing to do, even if it’s such a simple activity.

When Touya formally introduced you to his family he couldn’t suppress his snicker when he saw his father’s eye twitch upon first seeing you.

You were dressed in all black, lots of chain jewelry, wearing his t shirt from the band his father detested the most, smiling oh so happily at his brooding father. Little fangs on display as your wings stretched a bit.

“It’s nice to finally meet you mister Todoroki!” You shook Endeavor’s unwilling hand.

“Nice to meet you to Y/N..” Enji responded back.

As you waited for Fuyumi to finish cooking dinner, Endeavor took it upon himself to ask you some questions.

“What’s your quirk?” Enji asked.

“Oh um! Well it’s bat! I have bat ears and wings, also fangs!” You laughed slightly, “I have the power of echolocation and can temporarily paralyze people if I’m not to careful with it. I dropped out of hero school before I could fully grasp it.” You grin.

At the mention of your dropping out of school, Endeavor’s expression quickly soured.

Touya chuckled and stroked your thigh under the table, a weird sense of pride over took him as you pissed off his dad.

Yeah, Touya loves your alt self a lot 💙(kinda got carried away lol)

[aloneinthehellfire]

Chapter 9: The Shire Is Burning

Season One | Season Two | Season Three | Season Four

Raining Hellfire: Season Four

Word Count: 4759 words

Warnings: swearing, mentions of death, vecna's curse, visions, teeny little bit of angst if you squint

[A/N: finally bringing eddie back my god i missed him]

The Shire Is Burning

Max had saved your life.

When Vecna’s curse had caught up to you, your sister was prepared. She had noticed your strange demeanour over the past few hours, knowing the difference between concern and fear. You had been trying to reach out to her before dismissing it, and she could see it. So, when she had the time, Max had rummaged through a bunch of tapes in the Wheeler basement and found what she had been searching for.

“Okay, why are you in my car?” You frown and Max laughs, causing a smirk to appear on your face from the sound.

“I was wondering when you’d notice.” She shook her head, glancing at the stereo. “Can we play some music?”

“Sure.” You sigh, trying to ignore the fact that she avoided your question. “A free ride to Starcourt it is.”

The car started blaring Journey’s Separate Ways and she groaned.

“Do you ever listen to anything else?” She said but she sat back, bopping her head along to the beat.

The song you had played over and over again during the summer was something that stained Max’s brain. She would find herself humming the tune on days she thought of you, remembering the late night conversations in your car when you had saved her from another bomb of a family dinner.

And now you sat there with her in the back of Nancy’s car, music blasting through both of your ears as Max rested her head on your shoulder, hand grasping yours tightly.

Another Walkman had been found and claimed yours, the same song played over and over as price for being another victim to the curse. A change of clothes had done everyone some good before you all headed out with food to deliver to Eddie.

Eddie. You had no idea how you were going to tell him you’re cursed too.

“Not to be a wimp, but can I maybe sit in the car for this visit?” Robin pleads to Nancy, enjoying the perks of the front passenger seat, “Cause this is gonna totally and royally suck.”

“It’ll be fine.” Nancy shakes her head in dismissal.

“I just can’t stand to see those dull eyes of Eddie’s break again. I really, really can’t.”

Lucas glances at you as you lower your head, shifting your headphones so you had one ear bare to hear better.

“At least he can drink himself into feeling better.” Steve suggests from where he and Dustin sat in the very back, munching on snacks meant for Eddie. He brushed a crumb from his jumper, the soft yellow bringing back memories.

“That’s what my mom does.” Max shrugs, smirking at you as you smile at her dark humour.

“Why don’t we just give it a trial run?” Robin straightens in her seat, clearing her throat. “Hey, Eddie. Uh, good news first this time. We got you some Dustin-approved junk food and that six-pack that you requested. Oh yeah, and we found Vecna.”

“Strong start.” You offer and Robin shakes her head into continuation.

“Only the bad news is that he’s in that other, darker, much scarier dimension that we told you about, and the gates closed so we have no way of getting to him. Like, he’s entirely shut off to us, so basically you’re screwed. And, no, I know you were already screwed, but now you’re like doubly, triply screwed.”

“Okay-” Nancy tries to intervene but Robin kept going.

“And, and, if you didn’t think that was enough of a punch to the gut, Vecna has now claimed Y/n as another marked victim and she almost died, much like her sister, so, yeah, nothing is going your way but at least you have beer and chips.”

You shift uncomfortably in your seat and Max squeezes your hand.

“Wait, wait, wait. Maybe we don’t put it like that.” Lucas interrupts, raising his eyebrows.

“We’re one step closer to finding Vecna.” Nancy nods, staring ahead at the road, “That’s what we say. That’s what’s important.”

“See, Robin?” Steve calls out with a mouthful of chips, “A positive spin can make all the difference.”

“Uh-huh.” Robin rolls her eyes in annoyance, “I don’t see how Y/n also being cursed can have a positive spin to it but sure, I’m wrong here.”

“Don’t have to make something positive if you just don’t tell them.” You mutter and Robin spins in her seat to stare back at you.

“That guy is in love with you and you don’t think he should know you could die?” Robin widens her eyes and you shake your head.

“It won’t change anything.” You say, “Max and I are still cursed, and he could come back for us at literally any second. Telling more people will just end in more panic and anxiety when we should really be focusing on finding and killing Vecna.”

“Agreed.” Dustin mumbles through food and Steve nods along.

“Yeah.” Steve shoves another chip into his mouth, “Plus, I don’t think he’s in love, you know?”

Everyone turns to stare at him and he stops, mouth full with a confused expression.

“What?” He asks and you purse your lips.

“Thanks for the vote of confidence.” You comment, turning back and focusing on the road.

“No, I didn’t mean-”

“Holy shit.” Nancy breathes out and everyone stills, noticing the hoard of people currently occupying the front of the lake house.

News cameras and journalists were scattered across the road to the boathouse, officers keeping everyone away while the man in charge sorted out some kind of documents. Chief Powell.

If the police were here, you were screwed.

Once the wagon was parked, you all practically flew out of it, rendezvousing behind a reporter’s van to listen to Chief Powell’s statement.

“As many of you know, the Roane County line received a call a little after midnight…” Powell clears his throat. You stare at the crowd of people, heart hammering faster, “… reporting a homicide here on the lake.”

You all exchange scared looks.

“Officer Callahan here and myself arrived first on the scene.” Powell continues, “We made our way to the shore of Lover’s Lake, about ten yards from that house you see behind me. It was there that we found the victim, an 18 year old senior from Hawkins High, Patrick McKinney.”

Lucas face drops and your breath hitches. He lost a friend.

“His limbs…” Powell takes a breath, looking uneasy, “… his body, it was disfigured. There was an eyewitness on the scene. We have also identified a person of interest.”

Powell shuffles through some papers and you slowly shake your head.

“Don’t say it.” You whisper, already expecting the face that appeared on the photo currently being held up to the public.

“Eddie Munson.” Powell confirms and Dustin looks to you with the same panicked expression, “We encourage anyone with information to please come forward.”

“Oh man,” Steve mutters, “This is not good. This is really not good.”

“Fuck.” You say as you walk back to the car, controlling your breathing.

His name was public, putting a target on his back for something he never did. Vecna chose to kill Chrissy in Eddie’s trailer. He chose to ruin Eddie’s life. Because he knew it would hurt you.

“Dustin? Can you hear me? Y/n?”

You hear Eddie’s voice blare out of the radio in Dustin’s hands as everyone else approaches the car, causing you to walk over to the sound.

“Eddie. Holy shit.” Dustin replies, sharing a relieved look with you.

“Are you okay?” You ask, feeling uneasy the longer Eddie took to answer.

“To tell you the truth?” Eddie replies with a shaky voice. “Pretty… pretty god damn far from okay.”

“Where are you?” Dustin questions after a little push from Robin.

“Skull Rock.” Eddie answers and you find yourself looking to Steve. Who was looking right back at you. “Do you know it?”

“Oh yeah.” Dustin nods, “That’s near Cornwallis and-”

“Garret, yeah. I know where that is.” Steve finishes, pushing away from the group to begin leading everyone to the location.

“Hold tight. We’re coming.” Dustin tells Eddie, noticing how you were staring at the radio. He wordlessly hands it to you.

“Eds?” You speak into the radio cautiously, walking to catch up with the others, Dustin by your side.

“Yeah?”

“We’re gonna get you out of this mess.” You say with determination in your voice.

“I believe you.” He replies with such emotion, you knew it was the truth.

“See you soon.” You bid farewell quickly, handing the radio back to Dustin.

You notice Dustin’s confused face and you raise an eyebrow.

“You okay?”

“Yeah…” He shakes his head slowly, “I just thought… never mind.”

Before you could question it, the others are calling out to you to catch up and Dustin pulls out his compass, striding forward.

“I’m slowly getting sick of this song.” You groan, slipping the headphones off to rest them around your neck.

“Yeah, well, it’s either listen to the same song for a few hours or die.” Robin says and you stare at her.

“Yes. Thank you for reminding me.” You deadpan and she offers an apologetic smile.

You walked through the woods with Nancy and Robin by your side, the three of you already tired of the constant bickering between Steve and Dustin up ahead.

Max and Lucas were quiet behind you but you knew they appreciated having time together.

“You know what you’re going to tell Eddie, yet?” Nancy asks, biting her lip as she matches your strides.

“Uh…” You purse your lips. “Considering how he’s wanted for murder in a town that already hated him? I think we should just focus on one thing at a time.”

“Dude, I’m telling you.” Steve raised voice caught your attention, “You’re taking us the wrong way.”

“It’s north.” Dustin holds up the paper in his hands. “I’m positive. I checked the map.”

“You do realise that Skull Rock is like a super popular make-out spot?” Steve asks just as the three of you close the distance with them, walking directly behind now.

“Yeah. So?” Dustin sounds exhausted and irritated, checking his compass.

“Yeah, well, it wasn’t popular until I made it popular.” Steve brags, “All right? I practically invented it. Every girl I took there… boom.”

“Every girl?” You join in and Steve almost trips over. “That’s so weird, cause I remember you taking me there freshman year.”

“Wow.” Dustin widens his eyes, a shit-eating grin on his face, “Steve struck out.”

“Wasn’t the first time.” Robin snorted, memories from Scoops causing Steve to nod viciously.

“Yep, yep. Thank you all for sharing.” He grumbled, walking faster, “It doesn’t change the fact we’re heading in the wrong direction.”

Steve takes a different path from Dustin, earning a shout of protest. You sigh, following him down into the woods.

“Y/n!” Dustin whines, “Where are you going?”

“I gotta go with Steve on this one.” You shrug.

“Stop whining.” Steve adds on, looking over his shoulder. “Let’s go. Trust me.”

“I don’t trust you.” Dustin states before slumping his shoulders. “But I do trust Y/n, so…”

Steve looks offended as the others follow you both.

You were now venturing further toward Skull Rock with him by your side, a strange silence crashing over the both of you. Every time he glanced at you, you would offer a kind smile before returning to focus on where you stood. You walked little ahead of him once you realised where you were.

Steve wasn’t lying when he said he invented Skull Rock. You had heard the stories of him with girls circulating around the school, but it was different when he took you there that one time. Sure, you had thought about kissing him. But he was just a friend back then, you knew that. He was always too focused on your best friend to even be thinking about you.

“Hey, Y/n?” Steve calls out and you stop, slowing your steps to walk in time with his.

“What’s up?” You smile, fiddling with the bottom of your denim jacket.

“Are… are we okay?”

You frown, looking up at his worried eyes, “Yeah. Yeah, of course we are. Why, is something wrong?”

“No, no. It’s, uh, no, nothing’s wrong.” He shakes his head, brows furrowed.

“Like I’d believe that.” You let out a breathy laugh, “Seriously, why would you think we aren’t?”

He takes a breath, staring at the ground, “You’ve been really nice to me lately.”

A surprised laugh escapes your lips before you can stop it.

“It’s not funny, don’t laugh.” He says as a chuckle begins to form in his throat.

“I’m sorry, I just- I’m being nice and that’s what made you think I, what, hated you or something?” You laugh, shaking your head.

“Okay, yeah, I see how that would make zero sense.” He winces, laughing, “But… I don’t know. I guess I got so used to you, like, making comments and stuff. Like you used to.”

Your laughter dies down and Steve looks at you.

“I’m really sorry about that.” You say with such genuine emotion, he immediately stops.

“What, no-”

“Look,” You interrupt, facing him, “When I moved to Florida… it made me think through a lot of things. And one thought that kept appearing, I guess, was you.”

“Me?” He raises an eyebrow, a smile playing on his lips, as you both continue walking.

“Yeah.” You nod, looking ahead, “A lot of stuff about you. But… one thing in particular was how I treated you.”

“What?” He looks surprised, “Y/n, you never treated me bad. Maybe, maybe after the whole Tommy and Carol thing, but you had every right to do that. I was an asshole-”

“Was.” You emphasise with a sad smile. “You’re not anymore. Not after… not after you got dragged into this mess. And I get that, you know, we’d poke fun at eachother and that’s all good and great but… I realised that I wasn’t the only one.”

Steve shakes his head, “What do you mean?”

“It’s all fun and games when one person is, I don’t know, making jokes and… I guess it’s more considered to be banter than an actual attack. But then everyone else in this group constantly does it too and it was only when I stepped away from it all that I realised…”

“Realised what?”

“I truly hope you don’t think you’re dumb.” You say and he laughs for a second before really focusing on you. “Or useless. Or anything that makes you feel lesser than you actually are because those idiots don’t appreciate you. Not out loud, anyway.”

“Y/n.” He stops you, looking behind at the others still following at a slower pace before placing his hands on your shoulders. “I don’t care what they think.”

“I just wanted you to know.” You shrug and he tilts his head.

“Look,” He sighs, running a hand through his hair, “Sometimes… yeah, sometimes I think a little too much about what someone says, or a small comment, but at the end of the day… I was an asshole to all of these people.”

“No.” You shake your head. “Okay, yes, you did some things that you most definitely regret. But you’ve done more than enough to make up for that.”

He looks away and resumes walking, frowning,“I-”

“You saved my life, Steve.”

His eyes find their way back to yours, stopping just before the end of the tree line and you hold his gaze, “I wouldn’t be here without you. These kids… they’re little shits but they know for a fact that you’d do anything to protect them. Nancy, Robin… you’ve helped them in more ways than you realise. Robin finally feels safe with someone, you know? And Nance… it might not have been something you wanted but you gave her that extra push. And I’d be damned if I let Vecna kill me before I made sure you knew how great you are.”

Steve stills for a moment before leaning in and kissing your forehead, muttering something under his breath you didn’t quite catch before looking back down at you. “I’d save your life over and over again if it meant you could stay in mine. Trust me.”

You lean your forehead against his, smiling. “I trust you.”

“Oh.”

Pulling away from eachother, you stare at Dustin who had somehow managed to catch up quickly, a smirk on his lips as he waggles his eyebrows.

“Ew, Dustin.”

“Dude, no.”

“You can try to deny it,” Dustin shakes his head, walking closer, “But I can see the truth.”

“We’re just friends.” You smile and Steve tentatively shakes his head next to you.

“Yeah, man.” He shrugs, patting Dustin on the shoulder, “Just accept you’re actually wrong about something.”

Dustin rolls his eyes before noticing something behind you, “Wow, you actually found it.”

You all turn back to see Skull Rock in the distance, a flutter of joy in your stomach as you realised you had found Eddie.

“Well?” Dustin looks between you both, “We going or what?”

“Huh.” You say as a smile creeps onto your face.

Steve frowns at you. “What?”

“This is now the second time you’re not gonna get to kiss me at Skull Rock.” You comment and he clicks his jaw, avoiding a smile.

“Screw you.” He mutters with a laugh.

You push past all the overgrown leaves to step out into an opening, a giant stone situated in the middle of the space, towering over you all. Skull Rock.

“In your face, man.” Steve taunts to Dustin, “In your stupid, cocky little face.”

Dustin just stares down at his compass, frowning. “It just doesn’t make sense.”

“Yeah, yeah.” Steve rolls his eyes, “Even with it staring you in the face, you can’t admit it. You just can’t admit that you’re wrong, you butt-head.”

You laugh at the nickname just as you hear something jump down from behind you and Dustin.

“I concur.”

Eddie stands before you all with a crooked grin, “You, Dustin Henderson, are a… total butt-head.”

“Jesus, we thought you were a goner.” Dustin smiles in relief, hugging Eddie who stares at you in confusion before patting him on the back. You chuckle at the sight.

“Yeah, me too, man.” Eddie admits, pulling away. “Me too.”

“Hey.” You wave at him and he grins.

“Hi.” He returns just as the others join you all.

Behind you, Steve stares at the interaction with hands on his hips, looking away and staring back at Skull Rock, a small frown on his face.

Nancy handed over the supplies you bought as everyone gathered around, sitting or standing. Eddie crouched just below the rock, explaining last night’s events; Jason and his crew had found him, leading him to escape. But not before witnessing yet another murder.

“When I got to the shore, I tried calling you guys, but, uh…” Eddie takes a long drink from the water bottle and you wonder how long he’s gone without any real sustenance, “My walkie was busted, man. Drenched. So, uh, I did the thing that I do now, apparently. I ran.”

You stare down at your shoes. He wasn’t the only one running lately.

“Do you know what time this was?” Nancy asks, “The attack?”

“Yeah.” Eddie nods, “I… I know exactly what time it was. My walkie wasn’t the only thing that got soaked.”

As he removed his watch, you caught the familiar blue glint of the ring on his right hand, warming your heart. He still wore it. Just like you still wore your necklace.

He tosses the watch over to Nancy and she looks at the time, her breath hitching before turning to stare at you.

“9:27.” She states.

“Same time our flashlights went kablooey.” Robin notes and you shift uncomfortably.

“Which means what, exactly?” Steve frowns.

“That surge of energy was Vecna attacking Patrick.” Nancy confirms and you feel sick. How was it possible that someone died right before Vecna attacked you?

“Well, we’re one step closer.” Robin says, “We know how Vecna attacks.”

Behind you, you notice Dustin pacing, still staring down at his compass.

“And where he attacks from.” Lucas adds, an involuntary glance being sent your way.

“So now we just need to sneak into his lair in the Upside Down and drive a stake through his heart.” Max suggests and you raise your eyebrow.

“If he even has a heart.” Robin sighs.

“A stake?” Steve shakes his head, sharing a look with you, “Is he like a vamp? Is he a vampire?”

“It was a metaphor.” Max sighs, aggravated.

“A bullet should work on him, right?” Eddie suggests and you shake your head.

“Probably not.” You groan, stretching your arms, “He is a mind wizard after all, it’s gotta be something more than that.”

“I say we chop his head off.” Lucas promotes and you shrug at the idea.

“Go all ‘Chainsaw Massacre’ on him.” You suggest and Lucas points to you, nodding.

“I say all of the above, but we can’t do any of that until we find a way into the Upside Down.” Nancy stresses and you groan.

“The only way through is by a gate.” You say and Max looks to you.

“Didn’t you say you’ve been there before? Like Vecna took you there?” She tries and you frown.

“He did what?” Eddie glances between you both.

“It… I don’t think it was like that.” You wince, pinching the bridge of your nose, “I think he was just showing me things, I don’t think he can literally transport someone to the Upside Down.”

“We need El to get her powers back.” Max sighs.

“Everything was way easier.” Steve dreams before remembering Eddie was sat there listening to all of this, “We had this girl. She had superpowers.”

“Superpowers. Yeah, you mentioned her.” Eddie nods slightly, “You also said Y/n...”

“Yeah but that’s not an option right now.” Max states and you tilt your head. “I know we have you and whatever magic shit you got going on, but it doesn’t work unless we’re down there.”

“No.” Steve shakes his head and you raise your eyebrows at him, “What? It almost got you killed last time you used them. In fact, both times.”

“Wait. What?” Eddie holds his hand out and you look down at him, taking a breath.

“It’s something that takes a lot of energy from me.” You explain, everyone keen on listening, “I am kind of... connected to the Mind Flayer.”

“Seriously?” Lucas perks up, “Oh, wait, yeah. Starcourt.”

Max shifts uncomfortably at the mention and Lucas sends an apologetic look. She merely shrugs it off.

“Mind Flayer. Good to know.” Eddie nods, before his eyes catch sight of the boy pacing behind you, muttering under his breath. “Hey, uh, Henderson’s not, uh, cursed, is he?”

“Cursed? No, no. He’s fine.” Steve shakes his head, “Mental? Absolutely.”

“I guess he’s just a little less traumatised than the two of us.” Max comments so casually it just slips out and she widens her eyes.

“Two?” Eddie frowns, looking around the group and meeting your eyes last. Your heart leaps to your throat. You needed to tell him.

“Boom!” Dustin yells and everyone jumps.

“The fuck?” You breathe, clutching your heart.

“Bada… bada… boom.” Dustin points a finger at you and Steve, and you both look confused.

“What’s he going on about?” Steve mutters to you and you shake your head.

“Hell if I know.”

“I was right.” Dustin continues, a smug look on his face, “Skull rock was North!”

“Seriously?” Steve frowns, “You’re serious? We’re at Skull Rock! Right now! You were wrong!”

“Yes. And no.” He nods and you groan.

“Oh my god.” Steve runs a hand across his face, pacing off the irritation.

“Dustin.” You try, stepping forward, “It’s not our fault your compass is broken.”

“See, that’s the thing.” He holds up the small device, “This worked correctly when we left the Wheelers’. It was correct when we got in the car on Curly. But it started to slip the further East we went. Now it’s way off. When I was leading us here, I wasn’t wrong. The compass was.”

“So you’re using faulty equipment.” Steve stresses in exasperation. “You’re still wrong.”

You frown, thinking it through. “That only happens when there’s a stronger pull.”

“Exactly!” Dustin clicks his finger. “Lucas, remember what Y/n told us about compasses? What pulls them?”

Lucas scratches his head before widening his eyes. “An electromagnetic field.”

“I’m sorry, I must have skipped that class.” Robin furrows her brows and Dustin stares at you with a grin.

“Uh, okay.” You blink, “In the presence of a stronger electromagnetic field, the needle on the compass will deflect towards that power. So it would mean that there’s an impossibly giant magnet laying in the woods, or…”

“There’s a gate.” Lucas finishes and you nod.

Dustin laughs, pointing to you. “The compasses will show the way.”

“Hey, Y/N! You coming?” Dustin ran up to you, taking your arm to lead you with them.

“I… I can’t.” You said and he looked up at you with a frown. “Look, I have stuff I need to take care of. And I think… it will help us find Will, okay?”

He still didn’t look convinced. “But we need your help.” He added, pouting.

“Don’t make that face. You know I can’t say no to that face.” You sighed, rubbing your temple, “Okay… how about I try and give you a pointer-” You stopped, a thought popping up into your mind.

“What? What is it?”

“Compasses.” You said.

“What about them?”

“If this gate is disturbing the magnetic field… then the compasses will show the way.” You were going to explain more when you saw Jonathan ushering you over, pointing to the back of the room. “Look, I really need to go now. I’ll speak to you later!” And with that, you hurried back inside.

“Way to be cryptic!” You heard Dustin say in the distance. You wish you could be spending more time with them, but you had a mission of your own.

You smile at his memory, the ‘cryptic’ words you had told them when they needed help finding Will.

“But we’re nowhere near the lab.” Nancy says.

“But what if, somehow, there’s another gate?” Dustin suggests. “A gate that we don’t know about. It’d have to be smaller. Way less powerful.”

“Snack-size gate.” Robin says and you smirk before goosebumps trail along your skin.

“It’ll have to be recent then.” You say, shaking off the jitters you suddenly felt.

“How? Why?” Steve shakes his head.

“No idea.” Dustin admits. “All I know is that something is causing this disturbance…”

Tick, tick, tick, tick.

You glance behind you, feeling something breathe on you. But there’s nothing.

“...and the last time we’ve seen anything like it, it was a gate.”

Tick, tick, tick, tick.

Another quick glance and your throat tightens. It wasn’t a creature, but an object. In the middle of the woods, out of place. A grandfather clock. And its face was cracked with three scars.

“And I hope it is because then we’d have a way to Vecna!” Dustin was grasping onto hope now, excited at the possibility of ending this, “And a shot at freeing Max and Y/n from this curse.”

There’s a wave of silence, Dustin unknowing to his mistake, and Max widens her eyes.

“Shit.” Eddie mutters and you visibly still. He finds your eyes and you squeeze your own shut. Well, now he knew.

Dustin starts to run back down into the woods and Steve steps forward.

“Where are you going?” He asks but Dustin doesn’t stop. “Hey, hey, hey.”

Dustin stops, turning around with an unimpressed look.

“Eddie’s still a wanted man.” Steve stresses, “We can’t just go for a hike in the woods.”

“This little steel capsule might be the key to saving both the Mayfields and Eddie.” Dustin holds his compass proudly. “What say you, Eddie the Banished?”

“I say you’re asking me to follow you into Mordor,” Eddie replies, thinking it through, “Which, if I’m totally straight with you, I think is a really bad idea. But, uh, the Shire...”

Eddie glances at you with an expression you can’t quite read as he fiddles with the ring on his right hand.

“The Shire is burning.”

Eddie stares down at the ground for a moment before meeting your eyes again. He gives a little nod, standing up and taking a breath.

“So Mordor it is.”

Chapter 10: In The Deep ->

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[literaryspinster]

5 years earlier

Last night was fun, probably a little too much fun. Marie Moreau might be a grade grubbing, social climbing pain in the ass (pot meet kettle, they know), but she sure can dance, not to mention kiss. And she’s the sort of pretty that knocks them on their ass every time. Dancing with her at the club wasn’t the plan, the plan was to glare at her from across the floor while silently resenting Luke for inviting her along, but after a few too many drinks, and lines of coke and a shot of Molly for good measure, something weird happened.

Breathy and glistening from a straight half hour of sexy dancing with Cate, Marie came up to them, similarly loosy goosy from various substances that only Supes could safely metabolize. And she took their hand, her stacked silver rings clicking against theirs.

“Come on, do something spontaneous for once in your life, dance with the girl you hate.”

“I don’t hate you,” they said.

“Could have fooled me.” She said as she led them up from their chair and to the thumping, strobe lit heart of the club. She didn’t take no for an answer, but also, it wasn't certain that they actually said no in the first place. 

The DJ was playing Capsize, a song they liked a lot more without the dancehall bells and whistles, and yet, in the moment, it wasn’t so hard to be carried by it.They were hypnotized by the sounds and the constant motion around them, and by the girl in their arms oscillating like troubled water.

Up at night I'm awake cause it haunts me/That I never got to say what I wanted/Oh my God, oh my God/I’m not the same as I was with you/I would jump out my skin just to get you/Oh my God, oh my God

Her voice rose above the music, “You know, it makes me mad sometimes, how handsome you are.” 

“Excuse me?”

“I only mean because you’re such a dick.”

And they didn’t really know why, probably because they were both obliterated at the time, but Jordan laughed, a genuine, almost sweet laugh, because it wasn’t everyday someone called them a dick and it sounded like a term of endearment. Also, it wasn’t lost on them that handsome was another word she used. Being called handsome chafed sometimes, it only fit part of their story. But it was also the only part they chose to share with her, or anyone for that matter.

Jordan wasn’t much for dancing, on the occasions someone convinced them to get up and move to blaring EDM, they relied on guarded, understated moves, a head bop here, a shoulder sway there. But her closeness, and her scent and her big brown eyes looking right into theirs as her wrists rested against their neck, made them want to lose themselves in the machine beat, let their hips and their hands move more than a conservative amount.

I'm fine/Drop tears in the morning/Give in to the lonely/Here it comes with no warning/Capsize, I'm first in the water/Too close to the bottom/I'm right back where I started/Said I'm fine

“I don’t hate you either,” she leaned in to say into their ear. And before she could pull back, Jordan’s lips landed on hers, almost as if by accident, like they had a thought and acted on it before their common sense could catch up. They’d blame it on the drugs, they’d pretend in the morning that it meant nothing, because a kiss didn’t matter much at the end of the day, not even one as good as that. 

Something about the way she opened her mouth along with theirs made Jordan’s head float away, swallowed by the music and the feel of her soft curves under their hands, and before they knew what was happening they were sucking the space beneath her ear like a horny vampire, they were calling an uber, they were backing her into her her dorm room and untying the little laces on her top, they were laying her down on the blankets.

It was more than a fun night, it may have been the best night. But it’s over now, time to get up, get dressed, drink a full gallon of water and drag their ass to class…

…except this isn’t their dorm room, because when they peel their eyes open Marie is looking down at them, her preternaturally expressive face skewed in unmistakable confusion. They’re still in her room, and the Jordan she brought here is noticeably different from the Jordan she’s looking at right now.

Shit shit fuck. This is why they don’t fall asleep with people.

They launch up from the bed, wrapping the sheet around their chest, they would switch back but they aren’t sure if the fact that they can turn from a boy to a girl is more comforting than the possibility that a random woman sneaked into her room in the middle of the night.

“Jordan slow down, just tell me what’s going on. Is this not the first time this has happened?” 

She knows it’s them, maybe she saw them change while they were sleeping, maybe it’s because their jewelry is the same, or maybe she can sense it with her sweet ass powers, but she knows. Why are they still here? Why isn’t she freaking the fuck out and ordering them to leave right now? Sure she’s a supe, she knows that weirder things than this have happened, but as far as they know she’s never woken up next to those weirder things.

“I don’t know what happened, I’m never this careless. And I mean never.”

“Jordan, hey, come here, sit down.” 

After a few moments of hesitation, they obey. They aren’t really sure what else to do, they can’t exactly pretend this never happened, it’s not like they won’t see her in class in a few hours.

“So you mean this is just something you can do whenever you want?” She asks.

They shrug a shoulder in response, “Yeah, pretty much.”

“That’s fucking rad, why don’t you tell people?” It’s not the response they were expecting, and yet somehow, it is. After all, she knows exactly what it’s like to have an ability that people don’t understand.

“I want to be in The Seven,” Jordan explains. “I want that more than anything and no matter how much they try to act like the greatest superheroes are all special and different, the less special and different they are, the better.” 

Of course that’s what they tell themselves, and it’s mostly the truth. But that wasn’t exactly how all of this self doubt started. It started the night of the robbery. Marie doesn’t need to hear all of that though.

“But–

“Listen, this doesn’t have to be anything okay?” They say, and switch back before they can get too used to this. “We both got pretty trashed last night and some stuff happened. We don’t need to talk about our secrets and our feelings. It’s cool.”

She looks almost hurt, and Jordan wants to say something else to make that look go away, but they can’t. This is for the best.

“I won’t tell anyone,” she says, and Jordan stands up to leave, holding the sheet in place, gathering up their clothes and thinking this is the end of whatever the hell this is.

But it isn’t the end, because they won’t be able to stop thinking about her. And a week from now they’ll be back in this room, kissing her on the bed, touching her, letting her touch them. And there’s nothing anyone can do to stop it. Their fate was sealed on that dance floor.

~From How To Be Liars In Love ch. 6

[atths--twice]

A Coffee Shop Christmas

An alternate universe in which Dana Scully owns and operates a coffee shop in which Fox Mulder is a frequent customer.

“Next in line, please,” Dana called out, smiling as a young woman and her child walked up to the counter. “Hello. Happy holidays. What can I get started for you?” 

“I want a hot chocwate,” the little boy said and Dana looked to the woman for confirmation before addressing the boy. 

“Do you want to have whipped cream and sprinkles on top of it?” she asked and his green eyes lit up as he smiled. 

“Yes! Yes! I wove sprinkos!” he said as he jumped up and down, the people in the coffee shop chuckling quietly. 

“Rainbow sprinkles, chocolate sprinkles, or red and green sprinkles for Christmas?” she asked and he frowned as he stopped jumping. He tapped a finger to his chin and Dana looked at his mother as she placed a hand over her heart; the sight of him too adorable. 

“I want wainbow sprinkos,” he said and Dana nodded. 

“Please,” prompted his mother and he nodded. 

“Pwease.” 

“You got it. Anything else? Maybe a cookie, or a marshmallow snowman?” 

“I have it, Mama? Da snowman mahshmawow?” 

“Oh, honey. I only have enough money to get the hot chocolate for you. I’m so sorry.” She smiled tightly at him and Dana shook her head. 

“Oh, there'll be no charge for it. Anyone who says marshmallow the way he just did deserves a special treat,” Dana said and the woman began to interrupt, but Dana shook her head, not wanting to hear it. “One hot chocolate with whipped cream and rainbow sprinkles, a marshmallow snowman, and for you, Mom?” 

“Nothing, I…” 

“What would you like?” Dana asked softly and the woman let out a deep breath. 

“I… I… really like peppermint white mochas,” she whispered, shaking her head. “But I don’t… I don’t want you to get in any trouble for-”

“Can’t get in trouble when you’re the owner of the shop,” Dana said with a smile. “You want a venti?” 

“Yes. Thank you,” the woman said, tears shining in her eyes. “Truly, thank you. It’s been… been a long time since I’ve… thank you.” She wiped her eyes quickly and Dana nodded, ringing up a child’s hot chocolate and then discounting it by fifteen percent. 

“That will be a dollar and twenty cents.” 

“No, but it’s…” The woman looked at her and Dana smiled. “Thank you, again.” She exhaled a shaky breath as she counted out the money, all in change. 

“Thank you. That will be at the end of the bar when it’s ready. Could I get a name please?” 

“My name is Sammy,” the boy said, pointing to his chest and Dana smiled as she took the change and placed it in its proper spots in the register drawer. 

“Thank you, Sammy,” she said, winking at his mom and then looking at her barista, Jane. “A hot chocolate for Sammy with whipped cream and rainbow sprinkles, a venti white chocolate peppermint mocha for his mom…” Dana raised her eyebrows and the woman nodded. 

“Sabrina.” 

“For Sabrina,” Dana said. “Also a marshmallow snowman, and two plain croissants. Thank you, Jane.” 

“You got it, Boss,” Jane said, bopping her head to the techno Christmas music that was playing softly. 

Sabrina stared at Dana, her mouth opening and then closing, tears in her eyes again. Dana smiled and nodded as Sabrina mouthed thank you and proceeded to walk down to wait for their items. 

“Next, please,” Dana called as she turned to look at the next customer and her heart skipped a beat. 

How had she not noticed he was there? 

“Good morning,” he said as he walked up to the counter with a smile and the scent of his cologne reached her nose. 

He smelled so good. 

“Good morning,” she replied, her heart now thumping in her chest at his proximity. 

“How are you today, Dana?” he asked as he laid down the armful of stuff he was holding.

“I’m fine, thank you, Fox,” she said and he grinned with a nod. 

“Delighted to hear it,” he said. “I myself am doing well.” 

“Good. I was just about to ask,” she said and he nodded again. 

“As you always do,” he said, smiling and separating the items into groups. “Along with my usual coffee today, I also need to purchase these and some gift cards. I was selected to bring holiday gifts to the women in the HR department and I thought, "What would be better than a cute coffee mug and a gift card to this fine establishment?” Seeing as I am always here, I figured I should know that it’s definitely a treat.” 

“It’s very thoughtful of you to think of me… my shop, I mean,” she said, her face flushing as she looked at what he had selected. “Wow… all of these?” 

“I didn’t clean you out, don’t worry,” he assured her, glancing back at the shelves. “I tried to match them, but also be mindful of taking too much.” 

“That’s… that’s very considerate. But I do have stock in the back if there is something you wanted in particular.” 

“That would be great. But, before you check on that, could you do something for me?” 

“Sure.” 

He leaned closer and she swallowed as she did the same, his cologne even stronger as she took a quiet sniff. 

“That woman there, with the little boy?” he asked quietly, looking to his left with his eyes only. 

“Yeah?”

“Could I buy her a gift card and have Jane covertly give it to her?” 

“You… you want to get her a gift card?” she whispered and he nodded. 

“Broke my heart when she said she only had enough for his hot chocolate and she wasn’t able to get anything for herself. You’ve helped, now I want to do the same.” 

She pulled back and stared at him, at this man she had slowly gotten to know over the past three months when he stopped in every weekday to get a coffee. She knew he was kind, attentive, and had even helped out a couple of times when there had been a spill or a demanding customer became too loud. This was different though and it caused her to fall for him even further. 

“Yeah. I can get that for you,” she said softly and he grinned. 

“Good,” he said, taking out his credit card. “Fifty dollars, please.” 

“Fox!” she said in surprise and he shook his head. 

“Twenty five for her and twenty five for the kid. Although, I’m sure the majority of it will be spent on him.” He handed her the credit card and, with shaking fingers and a lump in her throat, she put fifty dollars onto a green gift card with Happy Holidays! written on it in rainbow colored Christmas lights. 

“I’ll be right back,” she whispered, giving him back his credit card. 

Putting the gift card into an envelope with the amount written upon it, she walked over to Jane. Whispering in her ear what to do when the drinks were ready, she slid the gift card into Jane’s apron pocket. 

“Wow,” Jane whispered. “If I was straight, that man would be joining me for dinner tonight. All I’m saying.” She gave Dana a pointed look and then gestured for her to return to the register. Letting out a shaky breath, Dana nodded and walked back. 

“That was very kind of you to do, Fox.” 

“It’s nothing,” he said, shaking his head. “I’ve seen you giving out food without charging for it, or giving someone a steep discount on their purchases. It was only right that someone else lent a hand.” 

“Still it was kind and thoughtful. Thank you,” she said. He looked at her and smiled, her stomach flip flopping. 

“Did… did you want me to check in the back for any of the items for you?” she asked as a loud Ohhhh was heard from Sabrina and Dana looked over at her. 

She had a hand over her mouth and was trying to hold back her tears, not wanting to scare or worry Sammy. She turned her head and met Dana’s eyes, believing it was her who had given her the gift card. But when Dana looked at Fox, Sabrina’s eyes widened and she drew in a sharp breath. 

“Mommy!” Sammy said. “I got da snowman!” 

“Yeah,” she breathed and walked over to Fox, Sammy trailing behind her as he held his marshmallow snowman, smiling happily.

“Sir,” Sabrina said, stopping in front of Fox. “I can’t accept this… I don’t even know you.” 

“Sure you do,” Fox said, smiling at her. “I think you just don’t recognize me in my work clothes.” 

“What?” Sabrina asked, her eyebrows knitted together in confusion. 

“I’m one of Santa’s elves,” he said quietly. “When we’re out in public we have to stay incognito, hence the suit and tie you see me wearing now.” 

“You…” 

“I’m Fox, elf number 2525. I’m glad I have that one as twenty five is my favorite number, and I got it twice. I’m also glad when I can do something to make people happy. Especially those who may have lost the holiday spirit a bit.” He smiled at her and Dana had tears swimming in her eyes as she watched them. 

“Yeah,” Sabrina whispered, her hand running over the top of Sammy’s head. “I don’t… it’s been hard. This money will be so nice to have to get him a special treat and to take a moment for us, even though I still feel like I shouldn’t accept it.” 

“Oh no, you can’t give back an elf’s gift. Those are the rules,” Fox said and Dana laughed softly, wiping at her eyes. 

“Do elves accept hugs?” Sabrina asked and Fox nodded, opening his arms and hugging her. 

“Here are your drinks and croissants,” Jane said, placing the cups and a small bag onto the counter. 

“Oh,” Sabrina said as she stepped back and laughed out a sob. “I forgot all about them when you handed me that gift card. I got so flustered. Thank you. Thank you to all of you. You really changed my day. Changed both of our days. Sammy, can you say thank you to everyone?” 

“Dank you,” he said, giving them a sticky smile. 

“You’re welcome,” they all said and Sabrina took his hand, smiling at each of them as she picked up the bag and the drinks and walked out of the coffee shop. 

“Okay. Enough tears,” Jane said, rubbing Dana’s back. “I’ll get your drink ready, Fox. You want the usual or you want me to surprise you?” 

“You know what? Surprise me,” he said. “Just no-”

“Hazelnut,” Jane and Dana said simultaneously and he nodded as he pointed at them. 

“And I’ll go see what we have in the back if you tell me which items you want,” Dana said, blowing her nose on a napkin and letting out a deep breath. 

Five minutes later, four bags hanging from his arms that were each filled with a ceramic coffee mug, a travel mug, a bag of limited seasonal coffee, and a twenty five dollar gift card, Fox picked up his coffee and bade them goodbye. 

“Oh, wait,” he said, taking a taste of his surprise coffee. “Huh… that’s delicious, Jane. I want that tomorrow.” 

“You got it,” Jane said, winking as she began to make the next order. 

“See you both tomorrow. Thanks for your help, Dana.” 

“And for yours,” she said, the words she wanted to say to him feeling trapped in her throat. 

He nodded at her with a smile, walked out the door and headed toward the bus stop as Dana sighed, feeling like a failure. 

“Slipped past you again, eh?” Tom, the older gentleman who arrived nearly as soon as the coffee shop was open, asked as he came up to the counter for a refill. 

“I’m… I’m working on it, Tom,” Dana said, taking his cup and filling it with his usual half decaf and half regular coffee, her cheeks burning. 

“Huh,” Tom said, his tone disbelieving. 

“It’s complicated. He’s a customer,” Dana said, setting his cup down and staring at him. 

“True. But still,” Tom said, nodding his thanks as he walked back to his table and his laptop. 

Dana chanced a glance at Jane and saw she was watching her with a kind smile, but her eyebrows were raised in obvious agreement with Tom. 

The bell above the door jingled and Dana was happy for the distraction.  

“Welcome in. Happy holidays. What can I get for you?” 

____________________

“See you tomorrow,” Dana said to Jeff and Corinne, the mid-shift baristas, as they walked past her, buttoning their coats. 

“See you, Dana,” they both said and she smiled as they walked out the door. 

“I’ve got everything done in the back, lights off, doors locked,” Miguel, the late shift barista, said as he came in from the back untying his apron and tossing it into the small laundry cart. 

“Great,” Dana said, smiling at him. 

“Everything done out here?” he asked just as the bell above the door jingled and they both looked over in surprise. 

“What?” Dana asked as she stared at Fox, who had never been in the shop twice in one day and especially that late at night. “What are you doing here?” 

“I’m-” Fox began, his gaze moving from Dana to Miguel, who had moved quietly but quickly to stand beside Dana. 

“Everything okay?” Miguel asked, touching her arm. 

“Oh! Yes. It’s fine. This is Fox. He usually stops by in the morning.” 

“Ohhh. This is Fox,” Miguel said, his hand moving from her arm and Dana felt her face flush, sure she was about to be outed, knowing he had been discussed amongst everyone working in the coffee shop. “You’re the one who bought the gift card this morning for that woman.” 

“Guilty,” Fox said with a grin and Dana let out a sigh of relief at how Miguel had identified him. 

“Good man,” Miguel said, sticking out his hand. “Nice to put a face to the name.” They shook hands and then Miguel turned his attention to Dana. “What else do you need me to do before we close up?” 

“Oh, you’re…” Fox said, seeming to realize the place was empty and the lights were low. “You’re closed.” 

“Technically not for two more minutes,” Dana said with a forced laugh. “But yes. We close at eight.” 

“I didn’t realize,” Fox said. 

“Well, that’s because you’re not usually here at night, right?” Miguel asked and Dana cleared her throat. 

“Right,” she agreed. “Well, you can head out, Miguel. I’ve got whatever else needs doing out here covered.” 

“You sure, Boss? I don’t mind staying.” He gave her a smile, one she knew well as his teasing smile. “I could finish the small amount that’s left and you could speak to Fox.” 

“Thank you,” she said, placing a hand on his back and nearly pushing him toward the door. He grabbed his coat and scarf from the back of a chair, chuckling softly as he nodded. 

“Night, Boss. See you tomorrow,” Miguel said, pushing the door open. “Pleasure to have met you, Fox.” 

“You as well,” Fox said, waving at him and smiling. 

Miguel nodded at him and then looked at Dana, raising his eyebrows. Though he said nothing further, she heard everything he was not saying. 

She locked the door as he left, waving goodbye as he shivered and put on his coat and scarf before turning left and walking out of sight. 

“I hate to hold you up,” Fox said when she turned around. 

“You’re not. I still do have some things to take care of here.” 

“I could help? Make it faster?” He smiled and she drew in a breath through her nose. 

“Why did you come back tonight?” she asked softly. “I’ve never seen you here this late.” 

“Ahh, well,” he said, taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly. “A few reasons… but um…” He put his hands in his coat pockets as he rocked on his heels. “The women loved their gifts today.” 

“Oh, that’s great. You made good choices.” 

“Well, you helped.” 

“Hmm,” she hummed with a nod. 

“I wanted to tell you that they loved them.” 

“You could have told me that tomorrow when you came in,” she stated and he nodded. 

“I could have. Yeah. But…” 

“But?” she asked, her heart beating faster. 

“I wanted to tell you tonight. I wanted… I wanted to see you again,” he said softly and she pressed her lips together to stop from smiling. 

“Why?” 

“Because…” He sighed and shrugged as he gestured with his hands in his pockets. “Every day when I come in here, I work up the nerve to ask you something and every day I leave without doing it.” 

“Ask me what?” she whispered. 

“If you’d… if you’d like to have dinner with me. Or drinks. Or a walk in the park. Or… see a movie. Whatever you’d like to do,” he said softly, shrugging again. 

“You do?” she whispered and he laughed softly. 

“Yeah. And every day I chicken out. I…” He took a hand out of his pocket and rubbed it across his mouth. “I talk myself into it and then I tell myself that this is your business, where you work, and men asking women out at their place of business can be creepy and weird. I didn’t want to make you feel weird or uncomfortable, so I…” He looked at her and shrugged. “I leave without saying anything and then I kick myself over it all day.” 

“Well, I-”

“But today,” he continued, beginning to pace, and she raised her eyebrows. “Today when I gave the women their gifts and they all exclaimed over them, they asked where this coffee shop was and when I told them about it and you, it got really quiet. I thought maybe they didn’t like the gift or something and then Aurelia, this amazing woman who has been there forever, laughed and said that now it all made sense.” 

“What did?” Dana asked as he stopped pacing and looked at her with sheepish eyes. 

“She thought… that I had bought them here because we were dating,” he stated and for a second she stopped breathing. 

“Sh… she did?” she asked and he nodded. 

“I told her that wasn’t the case and they all looked at each other and asked me why the hell not? I… I laughed it off and said it wasn’t like that, but I…” He sighed and gave her a half smile. “I wished it was like that and I knew I only had myself to blame. I left their office determined to stop by here on my way home, but I forgot I had a late meeting and now… now I’m keeping you when you should be leaving. I feel like I’m making a huge mess of this and-”

“Fox,” she interrupted, stepping toward him. “You’re not the only one to blame. I… I also thought… I wanted…” 

“What?” he asked, his expression hopeful. 

“I thought saying something would be odd since you're a customer, but I…” 

“You what?” he asked, stepping closer to her. 

“I wanted to ask you if you’d like to see a movie. Or get dinner and drinks. Or take a walk in the park,” she said, shrugging and smiling slightly. 

“Yeah?” he asked, grinning happily. 

“Yeah,” she said with a nod. 

“Well, that’s… that’s…” 

“Yeah,” she agreed and he laughed quietly. 

“I know it’s rather last minute,” he said and her smile grew. “But, would you like to have dinner with me tonight? Or-”

“Take a walk and look at Christmas lights?” 

“Then dinner?” he asked hopefully and she laughed. 

“Yeah,” she agreed and he nodded. 

“What do you need to finish here? How can I help to speed it along?” he asked and she laughed, her heart racing with excitement. 

In no time, they were leaving the coffee shop and stepping onto the still busy streets, despite the hour. She adjusted her scarf and hat, letting out a breath that swirled around her like fine mist. 

“Main Street?” he asked. “Check out the store windows? There’s one store in particular I really like.” 

“The Company store?” she asked, knowing most people liked the windows they created, but something about them always felt too… modern to her. 

“No, although they are nice, just not to my liking. Too unfeeling or something,” he said as they began to walk towards Main Street. 

“I think that too,” she said with a nod. “The ones at Jasper and Company-”

“But Jasper and Company-” he said.

They both stopped walking and stared at each other. He grinned and she bit her bottom lip as she smiled back. 

“They’re nostalgic,” he said and she nodded. “Like you’re in someone’s living room and sharing Christmas with them.” 

“I completely agree,” she said and he grinned again. 

“Well then,” he said, offering her his arm. “Let's delve into a bit of nostalgia.” 

She laughed as she slid her arm through his and they continued walking down the street, talking about everything and nothing all at once. 

______________

“Next in line please,” Dana called out as she handed Jane the cup for the next order. 

She grinned when she saw Fox standing there, as always in awe as to how he seemed to sneak in without her knowledge. He grinned back as he approached the counter, a small bouquet of daffodils in a glass vase held in his hands. 

“Good morning,” she said, taking the vase from him and shaking her head. “What can I get for you?”

“The usual please. And also…” he said, leaning forward to give her a quick kiss. She smiled when he pulled back, grinning like a fool. 

“You are too much,” she whispered and he shrugged. “Thank you for the flowers.” 

“Thank YOU for the past three months,” he said quietly and she leaned forward, giving him another kiss. 

“I love you,” she whispered and he nodded. 

“I feel the same,” he said and she laughed. 

Setting the vase out of the way, she put in his order and rang him up. 

“Three dollars even, please,” she said and he shook his head. 

“You know, I thought there would be perks to sleeping with the owner, but I guess not,” he mumbled as he took out a ten dollar bill and handed it to her. 

“There are,” she said cheekily as she finished his transaction and handed him his change. “You get to sleep with the owner. Coffee still costs money.” 

“Yeah,” he said with a grin. “Capitalism. Am I right?” She laughed as he put his change in the tip jar and leaned toward her again. “One more kiss before I go?” 

She grabbed the lapels of his coat and pulled him closer, wrapping her arms around his neck and kissing him soundly. Jane wolf whistled and Tom laughed as he clapped appreciatively. 

“That one good enough for you?” she whispered as she pulled back and Fox stood frozen in place for a few seconds. 

“Yeah, that… hmm,” he said, stepping back and clearing his throat. “That’ll do it.” 

“Good.” 

“Your usual is ready, Fox. Once you can function again, that is,” Jane teased. He huffed out a breath, gave his whole body a shake, and walked over to pick up his drink. 

“Thank you, Jane.” 

“Uh huh,” she said, glancing at Dana and smiling. 

“Well,” Fox said, walking towards the door. “Well…” 

“See you later,” Dana said, waving at him with a smile. 

“Yes. Yes, you will,” he said, still looking a bit dazed. 

“Bye,” she said and he nodded as he walked out the door, Tom laughing softly from his table. 

Dana looked down at the bright yellow daffodils, smiling as she stroked her fingers across their soft petals. 

Two women laughed as they entered the coffee shop and her attention was diverted. 

“Hello. Good morning,” she said, feeling happy beyond what she could ever have imagined. “How can I help you?”