#their parents their siblings they families forever lost

[eskildit]

I know this is supposed to be a silly joke but it actually kinda fucks me up because, Augustine doesn’t have a mother. Or at least, he doesn’t remember having a mother. What does it mean to understand you have a brother but no understanding of parents or family? 

[spinbreon]

I'm at home visiting my siblings, and I'm reminded of all the people in Palestine who will never see their family again and I grieve for them. I will never understand the full horror that the people of Palestine are going through, but I wish them the best. They are my fellow human beings and I care for them! I wish the state of Isreal dissolves and that this genocide stops right now, but that is not realistic so instead I will tell my siblings I love them, and demand for Palestine to be free from this bombardment.

[icterid-rubus]

Just found out a relative is in the hospital. Feels bad.

[jedi-bird]

While cleaning up today, I found more photos to sort out. Some of those packs included photos of my dad and me from when I was really little. I haven't seen him since those photos were taken. He moved away and my mom cut off all contact and would scream at me if I asked about it. I grew up hating him because of that. Looking at those photos though, we looked so happy. I know he was the one who wanted the divorce and who chose to move away. Sometimes I resent it. Sometimes I don't care. I've thought about trying to find him and initiating contact. But then I think about how he knew where I was for over thirty years and never once tried to contact me so why should I? He got what he chose. I'll just live with the photos and call it enough.

[howcouldmuffin]

First Choice I

[ Chapter 1 : The Unchangeable Past ]

You’ve always known you weren’t his first choice. You’ve accepted being his second option, but you won’t wait in the wings forever.

PAIRING : Jacaerys Velaryon x Fem!Reader

WARNING : SFW, Targaryen Incest, Non-canon

CONTENTS : Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4

AN : Hello, this is a mini-series I’ve been wanting to write. At first, I intended to write it as a single chapter, but the plot in my head is too extensive, so I thought it might be better to split it up. Anyway, I hope you enjoy this piece of writing.

please be kind to me English is not my first language.

Being the second child isn’t easy, and if you’re a daughter, your importance within the family starts to diminish. You have to hide behind your older siblings, always being compared to them, whether it’s your older sister, brother, or even younger brother.

You know that you are often overlooked. No matter how hard you try to please your grandparents or parents, you can never measure up to your siblings. You have nothing to compete with them. All you have is your appearance, which your mother often describes as “beautiful but mindless.”

Hearing those words only deepens your hurt. You can never be the child or grandchild they want, and even your beauty becomes a sharp weapon slowly aimed at you. Every time you enter the hall at social gatherings, you sense their expectations. The unwanted attention and harassment you faced as a child made you reluctant to participate in social events and made you want to leave.

Once, you heard that Rhaenyra, your eldest sister, wanted to betroth her son Jacaerys to your sister Helaena. Your mother refused and instead betrothed Helaena to your eldest brother Aegon. Now, your father Viserys has offered a new arrangement: you will be betrothed instead. You are not the eldest daughter who needs to marry the eldest son like Helaena. You are not a son like Aemond or Daeron. You are being forced into this marriage, and you know that your nephew is also dissatisfied with it.

You don’t hate him, but rather it's him who seems to feel that way. Being close to Aemond in your childhood, though it made you a target of teasing, helped you understand him. Aegon was always skilled and clever in these matters, often taking your nephew on mischievous adventures. You tried to comfort your brother when he was being picked on, but he seemed indifferent to your words.

Yet, your own tragic feelings only pushed you further into despair. At every gathering, you watched your nephew intently. During every training session, your eyes were fixed on him. At every meal where jokes were shared, you always looked to see his reaction. You did this because no one ever paid attention to you while your relatives were nearby—like the moon waiting for the sun’s light.

And then, it reached its end. The event that caused both families to avoid each other. Aemond lost an eye and received a dragon. You knew your brother was the one who started the conflict, harming the children first, and he was no longer someone who tolerated much. You told him that now that he had a dragon, the largest one at that, he should stop nursing his grudges and focus on other things instead. Aemond didn’t respond; he merely gave a scornful smile and turned away from you.

This meant you never saw him again. Not even a single letter was exchanged. You could only listen to the servants in the castle recount stories about them. You dreamt of and wondered what he would be like. How would he react if he knew and realized that you were his betrothed? You eagerly awaited the chance to stand by his side, training yourself in every way for him, hoping that it might finally make a difference.

After waiting for many years, you are finally going to meet him, though not under the most pleasant of circumstances. At least you will meet the man who is meant to shape you into someone you have never been. You chose to wear a golden V-neck dress with sleeveless straps, with a few thin bands around your arms serving as sleeves. Your hair was simply braided and pinned back. You are filled with hope, though it could easily shatter.

As soon as you step into the grand hall, all eyes are on you. It is known that the youngest daughter prefers seclusion over socializing, and you hope this will make a good impression on the prince. Your eyes quickly search for him and you spot him talking with your cousin. You head in his direction, eagerly anticipating his approach. You can barely contain your excitement, and your smile is one of astonishment. Yet, you can sense that the look he gives you is far from friendly—it is the last thing you hoped for.

“Why are you so late?” your mother’s voice snaps you out of your reverie. “And where is your sister?” Alicent grips your arm, causing you pain, but you are used to it.

“I was just helping Helaena get the children dressed. She should be here soon.” you reply, and her grip loosens as her stern expression softens.

“It’s good you didn’t leave your sister in trouble.”

The judgment clearly favors your sister over Vaemon, but what makes your heart race is Rhaenys's announcement of a betrothal between her granddaughter and Rhaenyra's son. Your concern grows as you notice Jacaerys and Baela exchanging smiles that are unfamiliar and perhaps never meant for you.

After the verdict was delivered, you withdrew from the hall and retreated to your room immediately. It became clear that, despite the passage of time, he might never see you in a favorable light. You have no one to blame but yourself—although you never mocked him directly, you never stopped those who did. Perhaps it is only fitting that you face this now.

After lying awake for what felt like an eternity, your trusted maid entered your room to prepare you for dinner with the family. You had shed a few tears after leaving the hall, and your eyes were now slightly swollen.

“Your Highness.” the maid, Vidah, said as she entered, “Shall we get ready? The prince will appreciate you even more.”

“No need, Vidah.” you replied. “There’s no point in doing that. Let things unfold as they will.” You smiled at her and slowly rose from the bed. She must understand you by now. Vidah is the only one you can confide in—like a mother, a friend, and an older sister all in one. She is another family to you.

“It’s alright, Your Highness.” she said, guiding you to the vanity and helping you sit in front of it. “You have more beauty and grace than any woman in Westeros. One day, the prince will see this.”

You nodded, and she gently began to undo your braid, combing your hair slowly as if it were silk.

“I’ll make you the most desirable princess in the Seven Kingdoms.” she whispered. “Even in this dress, you remain beautiful. Don’t undervalue yourself.”

“Thank you, Vidah.” you said, finally managing a genuine smile.

You walked into the dining hall slowly, relieved to not be late but anxious that not all your siblings had arrived yet. You feared another reprimand, but Aegon’s presence helped ease your nerves. He told you amusing stories, and even though you knew they were embellished, they were still entertaining.

As more people entered the dining room, you found yourself constantly scanning for Jacaerys. When he did arrive, you saw him walking in with Baela, just as before. The feeling in your heart was as if it had dropped from the top of the castle. When Viserys entered, everyone showed respect to your father, and the meal began.

You noticed the prince’s gaze occasionally fixed on you—sometimes with surprise, sometimes with scrutiny, and sometimes just passing over you. You hadn’t spoken a word since the meal started. Aemond seemed indifferent, merely eating to finish, while Helaena was lost in her thoughts.

Aegon seemed to be trying to engage Jacaerys, but was unsuccessful. Jacaerys then stood and invited Helaena to dance, not you. You could only think that if your mother were less biased, they might have made a wonderful pair and ruled the realm superbly.

Though it was still early, it was late enough to use as an excuse to escape your relatives. Walking alone through the Red Keep at night was not unusual for you, as you were rarely noticed unless there was a festive event or a tournament.

You wandered for an indeterminate amount of time, wanting to continue aimlessly until you overheard a conversation.

“You cannot refuse to speak with her.”

“Do you think she wants to speak with me? Last time, she cried because her beloved brother lost an eye, and even though she saw the whole event, she ran away.”

“She went to get help.”

“And what happened? My brother is now targeted by my uncle.”

You didn’t listen further. You knew it would be as they said—if only you had stopped your brother back then, perhaps this wouldn’t have happened. You might truly be a walking disaster. Maybe you aren’t as valuable as everyone says.

Upon returning to your room, you found Vidah waiting for you. She would try to soothe you to sleep before going to bed herself or at least ensure you didn’t return to your room in tears as you did tonight. You hugged her and rested on her lap as you used to. She gently stroked your head and comforted you.

“If only I… if only I had told him to stop.” you sobbed. “Maybe it wouldn’t have happened.”

“If I had intervened, they… they might not be like this.” tears flowed down both sides of your face, staining Vidah's clothes and hair, making them damp.

“Oh, my princess.” she gently stroked your back. “Whatever is meant to happen will happen. If you had intervened, you might have been the one to lose an eye. You did well to get others to help.”

“I don’t know what Aemond thinks of his nephew now.” you sobbed. “I tried, Vidah, but is my effort still not enough?”

“My princess, you have tried enough. We cannot make things turn out as we wish. You know that.” she replied, then helped you lie down comfortably and stroked your head gently. “Sleep now. We have tomorrow to wake up to. You have done your best, my princess.”

You said nothing further and nodded to your trusted maid. You slowly closed your eyes, trying to stop your thoughts and rest as Vidah advised.

Once again, the family gathering has arrived, but this time it's just the children, staring at each other. Everyone is sitting in a large reception room. You occasionally glance at him; he seems very familiar with Baela.

“They surely didn’t call us just to stare at each other, did they?” Aegon asks.

“We're waiting here, and after they finish their discussion, we'll have dinner together.” Jacaerys replies. You can tell your older brother must have some plan he's about to execute.

“Well, they might be mistaken about our patience.” he says with a broad smile. “Come on, nephew. Let’s find something fun to do.”

It’s bound to be neither fun nor trouble-free. Aegon turns to invite Jace again, but he doesn’t react. He shrugs and walks out of the room, glancing back at you in confusion. Aemond, seeing this, turns to you and also exits the room.

“Jaehaerys, don’t be a nuisance.” your sister warns her son as she sees your father and uncle leaving. The boy approaches you, likely wanting you to play with him instead, and you don’t refuse.

“Who’s been a good boy today?” You pick him up and chat as you usually do. He’s much livelier than his sister, but Jaehaera causes less trouble.

“I am, and Haera.”

“What a lovely brother you are.” you touch his tiny nose, and he touches it back, laughing. It warms the atmosphere in the room. Children often heal your spirit on tired days; their smiles make you ready to protect them unconditionally.

“He has grown up well.” Baela comments. “He’ll grow into a fine young man.” She stands up and approaches you. You’re unsure how to react.

“He likes being held.” you respond. “Would you like to try holding him?” Baela looks at your sister, who nods in agreement, and she slowly takes the boy from you. You gently pat the child’s back and tell him it’s okay.

As expected, Jaehaerys makes Baela smile, and the boy tells her stories he thinks are amazing. You catch the eye of your fiancé, who is focused on her. Luke and Rhaena are chatting with your sister. Soon, you notice Jacaerys looking at you. You meet his gaze, and it’s a stare after many years of not seeing each other. He’s still the same as when you first met. He moves closer, and you feel a glimmer of hope that he might want to talk to you, but why would he?

He walks over to Baela, engaging in a conversation you feel hesitant to interrupt. It flows smoothly, and they seem quite familiar with each other. You smile at Helaena and slowly leave the room. When will you be brave enough? You walk to the grand corridor and stop at a large column, facing it, not crying but trying to gather your composure.

“Try if you can, sister.” a familiar voice says.

“Just leave me alone, Aemond.”

“You don’t seem like yourself.”

“I am myself.” you face him. “And what if that’s the case?”

“Don’t show your feelings so openly that you appear weak.”

“Isn’t that how you all see me anyway?”

“Who, then? Mother or Grandfather?”

“All of you.”

“Being able to do everything but excel at nothing isn’t so terrible, sister.” Aemond extends his arm toward you.

“Let’s go. We’ve probably been important enough already to be late.” You grasp his arm and walk with him to the dining room. Even though your brother seems tough, it’s strange how he understands your feelings the best.

Walking alone down the corridors of the Red Keep at night is probably not a new experience for you. Exploring every corner in a different light, spending as much time as possible with yourself, not wanting to hear complaints, scolding, or comparisons from your mother, and avoiding the condescending gazes of your siblings—especially his.

But tonight, you encounter him at the other end of the corridor. You pause and consider whether to continue walking or not. But your thoughts are far behind his movements. He notices you and remains as indifferent as ever, seeming to make you invisible in his eyes, which is impossible. You have to do something about this relationship.

“Your Highness.” you begin, and he nods in acknowledgment without a word.

“Is the prince unable to sleep?”

“I just wanted to take a walk.” he says, about to move away.

“I apologize, Your Highness.” you interrupt him. “I know it’s probably too late for this, but I truly feel that I was wrong. I’m sorry for not asking Aemond to stop, for not helping, for not fully explaining the situation to everyone, and for other actions. I never harbored any dislike or aversion towards you. I know it might be hard to believe, but I speak sincerely.”

He listens but doesn’t turn to look at you. He pauses briefly to make sure you have nothing more to say, then walks away, leaving you drowning in confusion. It seems that one word cannot mend what has already been hurt. It might be a scar that can never be healed.

You return to your room to find Vidah absent. You collapse onto your bed, staring up at the ceiling of your room—the ceiling you often gaze at while dreaming of various things. It’s like a canvas for your personal musings and expressions.

You don’t cry, but you feel a release from the feelings that have been suppressed within. You have said everything you needed to him. From now on, you must prove that your thoughts are sincere, not merely words of deceit, and hope that God will assist you in this matter.

If you’re not mistaken, your relationship with Jacaerys might only be one of good friends, as he may already have someone in his heart—Baela. You don’t deny that she is more suitable for him. She is the eldest daughter, with a stronger Targaryen bloodline, and is closer to him. You hold no anger or dislike towards her, but you do not want to be part of a romantic entanglement that would only cause you pain. You don’t want to because you have already endured enough suffering.

[won4kiss]

𖠵 . ׅ ࣪ ⌇𝑌𝑂𝑈𝑅 𝑆𝑈𝑁𝐺𝐻𝑂𝑂𝑁 !

ᯓ 𝜗𝜚 ℰx bf! 𝓅ark 𝓈unghoon x 𝑓! reader 𝒢enre angst to fluff 𝓢ynopsis in which your boyfriend who moved away without a word comes back ! 𝑤𝑐 𐙚ㅤㅤ 2518 ⸝⸝ not proof read swearing misogyny petnames kissing ୭ৎ — 𝓁ibrar𝓎 ˖ ݁𖥔 ݁˖

⊹ ࣪ ˖ PLEASE LIKE & REBLOG ! ໒꒰ྀི ≧ ᗜ ≦ ꒱ྀིა

THE HALLWAYS OF YOUR HIGHSCHOOL WERE ALWAYS OVERCROWDED AND LOUD BUSTLING WITH ENERGY AND THE STUDENTS,

but you and sunghoon managed to carve out your own little world amidst the chaos.

he was the pride of the school, star athlete and heartthrob, always at the center of attention, yet he only had eyes for you.

your relationship was the cause of envy for many – a love story quite literally straight out of a fairy tale.

you remember the first time he asked you out, how could you ever forget? it was during a study session in the library, right before the exams, his face turning a bright red as if he were a tomato!

he stammered out the words. you had laughed, thinking it was a joke, but the determined look in his eyes made your heart skip a beat.

and from that moment, you were inseparable, but little did you know what was yet to come. — more under cut !

your dates were simple, yet memorable.

park sunghoon came from a rich family, and you had grown up very differently.

while he grew up with a silver spoon in his mouth, you grew up quite the opposite, with absent parents and older siblings who quickly left home when the chance came.

but to your surprise, he wasn’t bratty or spoiled, he wasn’t disgusted with your lifestyle or class.

instead, he learned the ways of how you live your life.

to you park sunghoon was the most humble man you had met. he didn’t take you out to five-star michelin restaurants, instead your dates consisted of being sat in his bmw in the mcdonald’s drive through, munching on greasy fries and cheese burgers.

everything was absolutely perfect.

late-night walks in the park, holding hands under the glowing stars, shared popsicle sticks that melted too quickly in the summer heat – each moment was perfect.

sunghoon had a way of making even the most basic activities feel special.

he would leave little notes in your locker, filled with sweet messages that brightened your day. your friends had teased you endlessly, you never heard the end of it, but you didn't mind; you were in love.

during lunch breaks, you would sit together under the big oak tree in the school courtyard, talking about your dreams and plans for the future.

sunghoon wanted to become a professional athlete, while you dreamed of pursuing a career in business.

the thought of being apart after high school absolutely terrified you both, but you promised each other that nothing could come between you.

if you had to choose one, your favourite memory with park sunghoon was the night of the school dance.

sunghoon showed up at your house, looking stunning in his suit, a shy smile on his face as he handed you a bouquet of your favorite flowers.

the two of you danced the night away, lost in each other's arms, the rest of the world fading into the background.

as the evening came to an end, he walked you home, his hand never leaving yours.

under the soft glow of the streetlights, he kissed you, a sweet promise of forever.

as graduation approached soon after, you noticed a big change in sunghoon.

he became distant, his usual cheerfulness replaced by a somber and dull mood.

you tried to talk to him, of course you did, you tried your best to understand what was wrong, but he brushed off your concerns with forced smiles and vague reassurances.

you wanted to believe him, to trust that everything was fine, but the nagging feeling in your gut told you otherwise.

the day of graduation was supposed to be one of celebration, a celebration of years of hard work and shared dreams.

unfortunately for you, it became a day of complete and utter heartbreak.

you stood in your cap and gown, searching the crowd for sunghoon, but he was nowhere to be found.

panic set in as you tried calling him, each unanswered ring amplifying your fear.

you sent texts, pleading for an explanation, pleading for him to show up, but the silence was deafening.

you went to his house, but it was completely empty, a 'for sale' sign planted in the front yard.

the reality hit you like a ton of bricks – sunghoon was gone, without a word, without a goodbye, as if you were nothing to him, as if you were some summer fling.

your friends gathered around you, offering comfort, but their words did little to ease the pain that soared through you.

you spent the entire night staring at your phone, you were supposed to be out with your friends, with sunghoon, partying, celebrating the milestone and the survival of high-school.

instead it was spent hoping, praying for a message that never came.

days turned into weeks, and the reality set in – park sunghoon was gone, leaving you with a shattered heart and countless questions.

FIVE YEARS LATER.

the terrorizing buzzing of your alarm clock pulled you awake from a restless sleep.

you groaned, rolling over to hit the snooze button once again, but the persistent ringing reminded you of the long day ahead.

with a heavy sigh, you dragged yourself out of bed and into the shower, the hot water doing little to wash away the weariness and dread clinging to your bones.

after quickly dressing into your usual work attire – a simple blouse and skirt – you hurried to the kitchen to grab a quick breakfast.

the coffee machine sputtered and groaned, mirroring your own exhaustion. you burned your toast and spilled coffee on your shirt,

“are you fucking kidding me?” cursing under your breath as you hurriedly changed into another blouse.

the commute to work was no better. the bus was packed, leaving you standing and yearning for space, the claustrophobia clawing at you.

when you finally arrived at the office, you were already running late. mr. choi, your boss, was waiting for you at the entrance, his expression a mix of irritation and disdain.

"late again, i see," he sneered, his eyes narrowing.

"this is becoming a habit, and i don't tolerate incompetence in my employees."

“this is why females should stick to cooking..” he muttered under his breath as you looked down, squeezing your eyes shut.

mr. choi was the most misogynistic and sexist man you had ever met, but if you wanted to keep this job, no— you needed this job, if you wanted to reach your dreams, you had to take it.

even if it costed you your very own dignity.

you mumbled an apology, your cheeks burning with embarrassment with the stares of the other staff as you hurried to your desk.

the day dragged on, each minute feeling like an hour. mr. choi's constant demands and demeaning comments wore you down, but you pushed through, finding comfort in the support of your colleagues.

jake, your coworker, noticed your foul mood and tried to cheer you up.

"rough morning, y/nie" he asked, his tone overflowing with aegyo as he handed you a cup of tea.

"that's an understatement, and never do that in front of me again, jake sim!"

“why though! am i not cute enough for you?”

“you’re not cute, period.” you sighed, although that interaction had mixed up your insides in distaste, you were grateful for his kindness and determination to cheer you up.

jake was a light of positivity in the otherwise toxic environment of your workplace.

he often went out of his way to help you, making the long hours much more bearable.

despite the occasional office rumors, your relationship with jake was purely platonic, built on mutual respect, twisted humour and shared struggles.

around midday, to your dismay, mr. choi called you into his office.

"we have a very important client meeting today," he barked.

"i need you to serve tea like a noble lady and make sure everything goes smoothly. do not mess this up, you hear me?"

“yes, sir…”

nodding, you quickly ran to the staff room and prepared the tea, balancing the tray carefully as you approached the office door.

taking a deep breath, you knocked and entered, your eyes fixed on the floor.

"tea is served, sir," you announced, your voice steady despite the nerves of anxiety and nausea.

as you placed the tray on the table, a familiar voice made your heart stop.

"thank you so much," the voice said, and you looked up, your breath catching in your throat.

sitting across from mr. choi the last person you had ever expected.

it was park sunghoon, his presence a jabbing reminder of the unfateful past you had tried so hard to forget.

the shock was too much for you to handle.

your hands trembled, and the tray slipped, sending hot coffee spilling onto your lap. you gasped in pain, the burning liquid soaking through your clothes.

“y/n— are you okay?” sunghoon screeched as he stood up with worry, pacing towards you.

unfortunately for you, mr. choi's face turned red with anger.

"you clumsy fucking idiot!" he shouted.

"do you have any idea what you've done? you're a disgrace!"

“i warned you, bitch—“

sunghoon stood up abruptly, his eyes filled with anger and concern.

"that's enough, mr. kim" he said, his voice firm.

“mr. park, it’s ’mr. choi! c-h-o—“ he nervously uttered before sunghoon had cut him off.

"i absolutely won't be working with someone who treats their employees this way." he turned to you, his expression softening.

"come on, let's get you out of here."

you tried to resist his grip, the emotions of seeing your first love who disappeared on you after many years overwhelming you.

"let go of me, sunghoon! you have no right to even look my way after what you did!"

ignoring your protests, sunghoon led you to a storage room, closing the door behind you.

he stared at you for a good fifteen seconds before he pulled you into a hug, his arms strong and reassuring, even comforting after all these years, and that angered you.

"are you okay?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine worry.

you took a deep breath, trying to calm the storm of emotions swirling inside you.

"i'm fine," you said, though your voice wavered with the weight of your anger.

“y/n, you’re not fine—“

“yes i am, i’ll be leaving now.” you said firmly walking towards the exit as sunghoon softly gripped your arm, his touch begging you to stay.

“please y/n, wait—“

"want me to stay? then i need to know why you left without saying anything. you owe me that much."

sunghoon sighed as he pushed his hair back, his eyes filled with an ocean of regret.

"my family moved overseas suddenly, you know how they are— they refused to let me stay behind and i didn't know how to tell you. i thought it would be easier if i just disappeared, that you would move on without me holding you back. it was a mistake, and i've regretted it every day since."

he looked at you with a glimmer of something you couldn’t quite place, he sighed at your dumbfounded state and walked a step closer to you— his hand reaching out to caress your face before he hesitated, pulling them back to his side.

“i was eighteen and a fucking clueless idiot, y/n. you have every right to hate me, i’m so sorry.”

his words stirred up a mix of emotions – anger, sadness, but also a glimmer of nostalgia.

and it hit you— this was sunghoon standing right in front of you, your sunghoon.

"you should have trusted me, sunghoon" you said, tears welling up in your eyes.

"i needed you, sunghoon. you broke my heart, you shattered it and left me with nothing."

"i know," he whispered, his voice breaking.

"i tried to reach out, to find you, but when i saw that post on your account of you with your husband, jake sim was it? and the kids, i knew it was wrong. you had moved on, you have a family."

you shook your head in confusion, the misunderstanding almost laughable if it weren't so tragic.

"jake is just a friend, and those kids were part of a charity event. you should have reached out and asked anyway.."

sunghoon's shoulders fell with relief and shame.

"i'm so sorry. i was an idiot, and i hurt you. i know this is sudden and i don’t even have any right saying this— but i never stopped loving you, not for a moment. please, give me another chance. let me make it up to you."

you hesitated, the pain of the past still fresh in your mind as if it had all occurred yesterday.

"it's hard, sunghoon. you hurt me deeply, and it's not easy to just forget that."

he took your hand, the sudden feeling bringing you a wave of nostalgia, his eyes pleading.

"i know it's a lot to ask, trust me baby i know—but i promise i'll do everything i can to make it right. i still love you, more than anything. please, let me prove it to you."

seeing the sincerity in his eyes, hearing the old affectionate petname he had for you, you felt your resolve weakening.

"fine… one last chance, sunghoon. but you can't mess up. i can't go through that pain ever again."

a tear rolled down his cheek as he nodded with a grin— as if he had been told he had won the lottery (as if he wasn’t rich already...).

"thank you. i promise you with my whole heart and soul, i won't let you down." he leaned in, shyly pecking your cheek before taking your hand.

the gesture was so familiar, so comforting, that you couldn't help but smile.

just then, the door creaked open, and your best friend, who now worked with you, peeked in.

"everything okay in here, y/n?—" she asked before gasping, her eyes widening when she saw sunghoon.

a knowing smirk spread across her face.

"well, well, look who it is! i always knew you were gonna come back at some point, you were way too down bad to ever get over her.."

you and sunghoon laughed, the sound lightening the heavy atmosphere.

it felt like a new beginning, a chance to rebuild what was lost, to make up for the time could’ve been spent in each other’s embrace.

“well.. we should probably leave, don’t you think?—“ you cut sunghoon off with a quick, soft kiss before running out of the room with pink flushed cheeks and a heavy heart.

“hey— you can’t just do that and expect me to be okay!” he yelled before catching up to you with a soft grin.

of course, with the lovesick look in his eyes which he always carried for you.

holding sunghoon's hand, you walked out of the storage room together, and you knew in that moment that everything would be okay— because it was your sunghoon.

© won4kiss 2024

taglist open ‹𝟹 @mioons @suneng @pnghoon @nshmuras @shawnyle @laylasbunbunny @privareum @briefsaladfun @greentulip @cyjzzl @sol3chu @txtlyn @d-dilemma @deezbin @pockyyasii @iluvnikism

[mayullla]

Title: Burned

Character(s): Childe / Tartaglia (Genshin Impact)

Summary: He was your best friend ever since you were kids, you guys were inseparable. You promised that you would be together forever yet you could not feel anything but fear as you looked at from the audience his bloodied clothes and crazed eyes as he was essentially granted permission to have you by the Tsaritsa.

Warnings/tags: Fem!reader, yandere themes (obsession), childhood friends to lovers(?) trope

You and Ajax had known each other since you were babies. Having lived close to each other's home it was almost every day that the two of you would meet and play, holding hands as the two of you explored the white-coated forest or stay by each other side drinking hot cocoa by the fire.

To your parents, it looked like the two of you were inseparable when they watched you guys lean on each other, napping quietly with a blanket covering you two. It was cute. When you were like the younger sister and Ajax was the older brother.

Even when Ajax's family grew in size, younger siblings, he never left your side, really still holding your hand tightly as if he didn't want you to go. There were moments when he would be conflicted as his sibling called him from far away, yet he was unable to go as he held your hand.

Even tho he was technically the older brother, he acted almost like an attached puppy toward you. Wherever you go, he would follow you if he was allowed, and when he isn't, there were times when he would whine wanting no more than to play with you.

He watched his siblings all the time, his parents were glad with how dedicated he was to taking care of them but you were special they could see it in the small boy's eyes how he would constantly look for you even when you were not around. How his ears were always sharp, moving immediately when he hears you while they could barely.

His parents and yours would joke that the two of you would marry later when you guys grow up and that they would connect the families through you guys. While most kids would dislike such jokes, finding them disgusting or in their words, "eww!" Ajax would always blush, looking rather hopeful at the idea as he would sneakily glance at you. They thought that this was the future, a few ups, and downs, no doubt, but they thought they could see it.

They didn't know what to do when Ajax suddenly disappeared.

It was a shock to everyone, with fear in their hearts that they had lost someone they desperately search for him. You cried when your parents didn't let you continue searching when it had gotten so late at night, when you looked so hard yet still could not find him. Cried so much that your eyes stung in pain with rashes under your eyes and nose.

After a few days, some gave up looking, and after a month or two, they had to stop. You were broken. It felt like the world collapsed because he was gone, and many pitied you. But you still didn't stop looking for him. Going to the woods where you and him played often, you would call out his name before returning when someone calls you back home. You missed him, you missed him so much and only wished he could come back home.

And he did... just... just that he was different from before.

Found in the middle of the woods, his clothes bloodied and thorn. Many were concerned for the boy, surprised to even see him alive in this freezing nation but most were happy. Till they saw his eyes, lifeless and blank. In the back of their minds, warnings started ringing as they slowed down their steps.

What in the world happened?

Ajax was taken back home, embraced by his family's arms and he also hugged them back just as tight. Being stuck in the abyss for so long all he wanted to see was both his family and... you.

Small steps he could hear that sounded all too familiar to him and impatient knocks on the door his parents were in the kitchen while his siblings were playing with their toys. He was the only one who could open the door, getting up as he headed towards the door, opening it, but before he would see actually you, his body was pushed backward and hands clinging around his neck.

It felt like an invisible weight was lifted from his shoulders. When he looked at you, your face hidden in his shoulder, he was supporting both you and him so that you two would not fall onto the hard floor and tears wet his clothes.

He didn't want you hurt after all, always thinking about you before himself, but when he heard your voice, your cries, that you missed him so much... He couldn't help himself but hug you as tightly.

People around him started treating him differently after he came back. His own personality and attitude had changed too much. He had become jaded even if he was the same boy who still took care of his baby siblings his parents could see it in his eyes, that flame of insanity and a yearning to fight. It hurt his parents, as they were unable to look into his eyes as guilt choked them. But there was one person who didn't change other than his baby siblings who couldn't even realize anything was different.

It was you who continued to stay by his side.

You stay by his side... Ajax knew that you were as innocent and naive as his siblings but held on to this kind of hope that you would be different when you make no mention or found him slipping as he talks about the thrill of fighting. He was your friend you told him, why would you ever leave him?

"I will never ever leave you, Ajax. So you don't have to hide anything from me! We are friends and we will stay together forever! Okay?"

It was naive words, maybe down the line you would regret someday but you didn't know that determined to stay by his side when you saw how Ajax looked at you, his eyes widen like saucers. The hesitation and fear of something that has yet to come... you wished to take all of it away. He was your friend after all.

The hand that held your own tightened, and you whined in pain.

"Promise?"

It was a solemn voice as Ajax looked down to the snow floor. You tilted your head, startled as he looked at you again. There was no sparkle in his eyes but something else... something you didn't understand when you were so young. But you nodded.

"Promise."

You were surprised when you heard of the news of one of the harbingers taking an interest in Ajax. Happy if not proud that he had gotten the interest of someone who worked so close to the Tsaritsa. Yet you can't help it as your smile dropped when Childe told you that he would be leaving here.

After your last hug (both of you knew that you would not be able to see each other for a long time), you watched him leave with Pulcinella.

It was okay... you both had promised to send letters as often as you could.

You wished to see him every day, sending Ajax letters one or two a week even as years passed. While he didn't send as many letters to you, all of them were usually thick and full of care. He was always busy that much you understood from when he told you his training schedule but also from Pulcinella, who would show up here ever so often to care for Ajax's siblings.

You asked him if he was doing all right...

"Ajax is doing fine, but training is really hard, and he has been very busy. But if you want, I can deliver a word for him for you if you wish." he offered, but you choose to instead decline, thanking him for taking care of Ajax.

"He has told me about a lovely lady many times before. It seems that you are the one that he was talking about." The old man smiled at you, "I shall tell him that you miss him if you wish. He would be very happy."

Instead of declining his offer again, you hesitantly yet respectfully accepted his offer. But there was something that he said that you could not get out of your mind.

Just before he left, Pulcinella turned back to face you again. "Maybe you already know this but just in case, I think it is better for you should know that Ajax is a different person than he was before he fell into the abyss. You must be careful with him. Otherwise if handled carelessly you might be burned by his flames."

The mayor's words made you hesitant, offended by his words, yet at the same time, it made you confused. How could he say that when he was the one who took Ajax in.

You ignored his words, well at least tried to when you continued to write letters to Ajax. Somewhere in your heart, you knew that something was true, yet for years, you chose to ignore everything, for... he was still your friend.

Ajax and you continued to send letters to each other you more than him, while he would occasionally send them a small present would be with it telling you how it reminded him of you. From bracelets, and small accessories to stones, and dried flowers and sweets. (You tied to ignore the fact that there was a bit of blood on some of the items sometimes, worry that he might be hurt, or wonder how hard the mission was. Part of you knew that this blood wasn't his not with how cheery and excited his letters were.)

There were some people you knew in the village that meet Ajax, not usually on purpose but by chance, and they would all say the same thing. That he really had changed. Their faces never say it was for the best. Instead, they were rather pale and unsure as they started warning you to be careful.

While Ajax's parents looked hesitant when you asked them about him when they visited him.

You never wanted to believe it, that you would rather see it from your own eyes. It has been so long since you last met Ajax, but you saved enough money to make a trip to see him after some years. Finish getting ready, you head out, leaving your home to visit him as you have heard that there was a tournament happening between the Fatui, that maybe you could see him then...

Your heart froze when you saw the blood stains on his clothes as he battled with other fatui members. It was a brutal fighting tournament, and the winner gets a wish granted by the Tsaritsa.

The boy you once knew was nowhere to be found as you watched another man with ginger hair injure another of his colleagues. He never stabbed too deep, yet your body could not help but feel a chill as you watched his crazed eyes.

He was holding back... but in what sense you didn't want to know.

"Is there anything that you wish for as a reward? Fame, money? power?" The Tsaritsa asked her voice chilling. Yet the man didn't seem to be fazed still keeping his head low he spoke up, "I do not wish for such things. Fame and money have no use to me. While power does appeal to me, I wish to be rewarded with something else."

Whispers could be heard everywhere as people were shocked that such a young man like him would deny the opportunity for something greater. The Tsaritsa paused as if thinking for a moment before speaking, "Raise your head, my soldier, and tell me what is it that you want. If it is not impossible, I shall give it to you."

Childe raised his head a smile on his lips, yet still respectful, but nothing could hide the madness in his eyes that just came back from a bloody fight. "I have a lady that I love but had to leave her when I joined the fatui years ago, I wish to see her again and would like to ask for a month or two rest so as to visit her and my family." You blink in surprise at what he said, yet you felt your heart stop when you locked eyes with him for just a second.

He knew you were here. Yet rather than that affectionate eyes of the young boy that you knew, you felt nothing more than his prey.

The Tsaritsa was silent for a moment again looking down at Childe as if examing him. "You are a loyal man. Very well, you shall go back to your home as I will grant you 2 months of rest. Go be with the woman you love and come back when the time is up for when you come back you will be bestowed the 11th rank of the harbinger."

The crowds gasped both in shock and amazement, yet soon after, there was loud cheering. Yet you could not join them as you stood frozen in your spot, fear nestled in your heart as your childhood friend looked straight at you. The look in his eyes was familiar to you, but back then, you didn't know what it was.

Now you do. Those eyes belonged to someone you cared for so much now held an infatuation-crazed love within them shown to no one but only to you. Taking a step back, your legs felt like they were encased with ice.

This was not the boy you knew.

"I thank the Tsaritsa for your benevolence. It is an honor to be granted this reward."

Or maybe you never knew him in the first place.

[cute-sucker]

irregular heartbeat

[31.3.2024]

note: erm, so i wrote this. idk how i feel about it...(if u find the taylor swift reference u will forever have my love) words: 1.8k warnings: drinking, swearing, heavy angst, slightly dark!rafe, toxic relationship

dating rafe cameron in secret was supposed to be fine.

it was supposed to be easy. you never passed his way on the island, and when you did he was his gang.

the kooks.

each one had a rich family and shit ton of daddy issues. kelce, a cold fish, topper, the charming one and rafe…the deadly one. the one that you were supposed to stay away from.

you were independent even out of school. your parents had needed help with two younger siblings. you went you fended for yourself, taking your sister to soccer practice and coming to your brother's plays. you had a one-track mindset. that was staying clear of trouble.

oh boy, but when rafe came in. a smirk on his face, sunglasses glinting in the sun, and a groggy voice that made you want to rethink all of your decisions.

some said trouble followed him, while others disagreed calling him the root of all the problems.

you never expected to fall into his clutches. your family had been dirt poor and you were on a scholarship to kook academy, passing with flying colors. you were ready now to graduate with your hands closing on the degree, and finally run away from figure eight forever.

yet it wasn't school where you met him.

it was when you had been dropping off your sister when he set his eyes on you. you were supposed to start a new life, but somehow you liked the way he offered you a new breath of air.

you liked the danger, and the intrigue surrounding him, and you liked doing something dangerous. you had always been reliable, you had always been the one to hang around your friends telling them it was time for you to go home.

you'd always been the straight a' student, good girl, and now you smiled back at him and that smirk spread on his face you left excited.

it was almost as if he understood you. it was the way he liked your sweet smile, always giving you time. he understood your hardships and shared some of his own - telling you about his difficult relationship with his father, running to get your coffee, and at one point holding you so tightly during the times you were like you were going to fall apart.

then he had asked you out. you felt like you were living the dream, retracing his freckles at night, and feeling the way he smiled at you. he was everything at you. you would never admit it, but even your sister had caught on.

her 10-year-old mind saw you lingering on rafe cameron, and she gave you a sly smile, telling you that you deserved it.

you liked that.

you liked the sweetness and the venerability that he brought out in you. you liked the way his arms could fold you, and the way you felt so safe. you liked the way he smiled at you in the morning after you stayed. this sweetness in the venerable laziness with his arms spread out and you could feel the steady beat of his heart.

dependable.

trustworthy.

lovable.

he was like a nightmare dressed like a daydream.

rafe cameron was a whirl of emotions. an unpredictable hurricane that came quietly and viciously. you hated the clear lies you heard in his voice and the way he drank to death. the bottle was attached to him, and his eyes were harsh, with his words even harsher.

no longer could you see the race that you loved.

you felt abandoned. all of sudden, it felt like everything was falling apart, as you tried to take care of everyone forgetting about yourself.

you'd cry and cry like you had never had before. your knees held up to your chest, and this fear, this constant fear followed you everywhere because you loved him. god, you loved him, desperately to the point of damming everything you had.

and you swore you had lost everything until he'd let you curl into your lap and he'd whisper sweet nothings in your ear. then you'd believe everything was going to be okay.

but here you were again, beer bottle tilted drinking every drop, while you aimlessly swayed to the beat as the party music blared. you felt weightless, died yet so alive at the same time. you were supposed to be placed.

yet you were dwindling to nothing because of rafe cameron.

he had told you were his love, his one and only, and yet he had just ignored you, pretending not to know you.

you wanted to scream.

in all honestly you always felt like crying, and then telling his friends what was going on. you were fucking 17 years old, and you were supposed to be out of this phase. out of this phase where you craved being a teenage dirtbag.

no, now you felt like a dirty secret as if he didn't want people to know that he was dating a filthy pogue on the other side of the island. he was ashamed of you.

these thoughts swirled in your head with no stop, and you felt more your hands shake and eyes blur with tears, as you tipped a bottle to your mouth. the more you thought about the situation, the more beer you drowned.

and all of a sudden you danced, your body in sync with the music, and you were next to the bonfire, too close, so warm. maybe you should take something off, it was way too warm, as you stumbled to get your top off.

suddenly you felt someone helping you.

topper.

"hey, are you okay?" he asked, drawing you away from the fire. you squirmed away from him, as your cup fell to the ground.

"'m fine, why?" you gulped down your drink with enthusiasm, "you know you should tell your friend to fuck off. he's an asshole." you sputtered out, trying to sit down only to lose your footing completely.

topper caught you in time.

"maybe you should stop-" he muttered, gently guiding your cup away from you. you felt like you shouldn't let him take your cup yet your hands wandered aimlessly in his direction.

"i'm a complete loser," you hiccouped, as you sat on the ground. "i'm in love with him. i'm in love with rafe fucking cameron."

topper raised an eyebrow, nodding silently as if he had heard this before.

then you found yourself sniffing sadly, and felt more confused. "why are you even listening to me babble? you don't even know me."

your tight minidress was slipping up your thighs, and you saw him glance before catching himself.

he laughed at your comment, almost as if he was surprised himself. "i don't know. all i know is that you seem familiar," he confessed, cracking a confused smile. you couldn't help but laugh just a little.

he was nice.

"seriously top, seducing a pogue? couldn't find other good fucks?" a dark voice drawled.

you turned to face the half-obscured face in the darkness. it was rafe, hat turned backwards, anger flickering in his eyes, an eerie expression on his face.

"shut up rafe," topper shot back, rolling his eyes. he looked amused almost as if he was enjoying this exchange of words.

you glared at rafe, placing your hands on your thighs. "maybe i should go fuck someone. i feel like it, y'know?"

rafe snapped to look at you.

you got up, sudden bravado in your heart. "you know what? i'd rather fuck anyone here then-"

his eyes.

that was what stopped you in your tracks. it was the fact that there was something so murderous, and you could tell that he was warning. yet you didn't want to stop. you wished he could drown in the ocean, or just leave you.

he let out a mirthless laugh, and then stepped closer to you, "let's talk.''

it wasn't a request, but you stepped closer to him, watching the way his breath hitched, and the way his hand itched to pull down the short dress you had on.

you stepped so close, it looked as if you were going to kiss him. you found yourself feeling cruel.

"stay away from me, rafe.," you whispered, and then walked away from him. but you knew that he wouldn't let you go without a fight, as he relentlessly followed you across the bonfire.

"talk to me," and then before you knew it topper was gone, and the two of you were shoved into a dark corner. you saw other couples making out, but none of them could care less about your presence.

his eyes searched for something in yours. he was so close, his heat rubbed off you and you waited for him to say anything.

"what the fuck is wrong with you?" he hissed, "what happened right there," he whispered, and he looked so concerned you wanted to break right there in front of him.

"you. you're what happened. you're breaking me." you breathed out, hot tears streaming down your face, and his grip on your arm got even tighter.

you gasped at the pain, and he quickly let go of your hand. he had hurt you, and he was-

"i-" he murmured, and then tried to draw you closer to his chest, "i love you. you know i would never hurt you."

you shook your head, as you sobbed. yet when he opened his arms you flew into them. he stroked your hair and buried his head in his chest.

"somethings wrong," you mumbled and he gently tilted your head to get a good look at you. you could barely understand the look on his face. he was so unpredictable.

"you've had too much to drink, darling."

then he kissed your forehead so gently, that a tear escaped your face. he was kissing all of your bruises and you would let him do anything to you.

"i missed you, you're gone all the time," you told him, latching onto his arm.

"i'm right here," he assured you, and you shook your head.

"no, no."

he wouldn't get it.

you closed your eyes, his ache in his heart growing. you could hear his heartbeat, and no longer did he sound steady. instead, it was irregular. you wanted to believe he was the same rafe cameron you fell in love with, but sometimes. . .

sometimes you couldn't even recognise him.

[honeyhenry]

Apple Pie and You and I

A little story of the Seresins aka Hangman being a softie for his girl. Fluff, no warnings, please enjoy!

Jake Seresin, a lone star state boy through and though, always found himself feeling closer to home with a warm apple pie and a country song playing with a gentle thrum on his Pop’s old record player in the room next door.

The only time he felt closer to a sense of home was with you - his lovely lady who had managed to lure and capture the Hangman hook line and sinker by batting her pretty lashes and making him work hard for her attention. It had taken him 3 weeks of smirks that turned to smiles, and insistence that turned into nothing shy of begging, for you to agree to a date. The only holding back he’d done was in omitting to state the thought that had urged him to act in the first place; “Oh, she's gonna be my wife someday.”

The typically cocksure brazen pilot hadn’t the need to utter those words for another 14 months, past the utterly exclusive dating period, nor in between months of loved up sweetness and the pained inevitability of month-long deployments. He’d told you the very moment after his 1 month deployment - which had extended into 7 and a half weeks - of a monogamous routine, where a few pictures and fond memories were just not cutting it any more.

The tarmac had scratched the khaki material of his bags as he'd dropped them with a heavy thud to the ground, only eager to reach your arms sooner. Your little sundress catching in the soft wind, the warmth of the sun heating your cheeks and nose as he engulfs you in his arms, holding tight before he'd pulled his head away to take a proper long look at your pretty face - and then brought your lips to his. He'd kissed you over and over and over, the smile on his face growing every time, your eyes clear and watering, having waited for this moment.

And quietly, once the decision was made to catch your breaths, he'd whispered, lips ghosting over yours, that you were it for him. That he was going to marry you.

According to the Navy, Hangman had no one at home, no next of kin unless you provided the contacts of his parents down in their ranch a few states away should there ever be the need for the passing over of belongings and dog tags to fatefully occur. But Jake Seresin? He had a whole life to get back to; one he needed to kick start with a ring and a question.

The ring itself would be an heirloom, no doubt about it, and had required a trip back to Texas to see his family and share with them his upcoming plans. Having met you a handful of times over Christmas and on big family birthdays, the Seresins were entirely on board. Jake's Momma had given him a close hug with tears in her eyes while his Dad and siblings cheered and grinned the classic Seresin smile. Their family often grew each year, but his Momma and Grammie had worried that their headstrong, flirtatious boy would get too caught up in the ways of the world to settle down. He was a softie at heart, and you had been the best thing to ever happen to him.

They adored you. Enough for Grammie to take her grandson into her study, and open the jewellery box safely nestled inside a locked cupboard door. "This one is a diamond", she'd said as she'd taken out a piece." It's been in the family since before I was born. It's even got the family name engraved inside." Jake had taken it, listening respectfully to his Grammie but still lost in the thought of how the ring would look so beautiful on your finger. Thinking of you being his, forever.

That had been 18 months ago now, and the glinting stone on your ring finger, alongside a shiny golden wedding band, showing that all had gone to plan. Hangman proudly wears his ring too, occasionally looping it around his dog tags if need be. However currently, in the Lone Star state, the dog tags are off and his ring fits snugly on his fourth finger as he holds you close.

It's campfire night at the ranch, and you sit on his lap, curled in and admiring the way his face has caught the sun, inspecting every detail of him in the glow of the fire he had helped to start. He looks between his family; uncles, cousins, grandparents, now and then but his main focus is always you. Your hands clasp his left one as he uses the other to nurse a beer after working up a sweat teaching his youngest nephews to play football earlier that day. It had been so endearing to watch as you'd prepared the barbecue and baked fresh cookies using the special Seresin recipe, with his Momma and sisters.

"I got the recipe from your Mom, for the cookies, so we can have them at home." You'd whispered sweetly as the chatter around the fire continued. "Do you know", Jake murmured, looking deep into your eyes as his green ones pierced into your soul. "Do you know how much I love you?"

Your giggle had been soft and the eye roll that followed made Jake smirk lovingly. Still in awe of how he got the girl that barely spoke to him but was still batting her lashes and playing hard to get. He brings your hand to his lips, kissing the point just above where your rings lay on your finger.

"The kids'll love 'em. You're gonna be a great Mom." He stops smirking and now looks at you, fully focused with a soft, genuine smile. Placing the beer down, he rests his hand on your stomach, underneath the sweatshirt of his you've borrowed that splashes the words University of Texas, Austin on the front. It's old and thinning out but it smells of Jake, so it's something you will happily bask in and nap in and snuggle in until you have to leave his family home once more.

"Shhhh. I already think Grammie knows", you scold him. And she does. Grammie knows and as his Momma watches the two of you interact now, she's certain that she knows too. Call it a Mother's instinct. Jake's little check-ins throughout the day had not gone unnoticed, nor had your daily naps that you blamed on the heat, despite it only being the middle of May.

"But Grammie knows everything, a few more days and I can finally tell 'em all. Been dyin' to sweetheart." His hand rubs your stomach gently, not to raise suspicion but also to comfort you. Sure, as the cookies and apple pie were brought out, he had felt a little nostalgia, but with you in his lap wearing his ring, and his baby in your belly, Jake Seresin had never felt more at home than in that moment.

[agentrouka-blog]

Jon the future Father

An early hint that it's Jon and not Robb who is destined to carry on the line of House Stark is how GRRM chooses to portray them with children, especially their younger siblings.

It's Jon who advises Bran, gently guides Rickon, comforts and encourages Arya, who is shown jubilant when Bran wakes, who worries about his sisters. It's Jon who gave Bran a fish to take home, Jon who tells Tyrion to comfort Rickon with the promise of "all my things".

GRRM could have given Robb similar scenes to interlink with the way his younger siblings idealize him in his absence. But we get no such thing. He is overwhelmed with Rickon's distress, receives comfort from Bran rather than giving it, leaves Bran behind in the woods, is given zero interaction with his sisters and only mentions them to complain about Sansa's lettter, compassionlessly unable to comprehend her obvious situation. He'll go on to refuse to trade for them, remains focused on his role as Ned's avenging son, rather than as protector of his living family.

While Robb needs an "heir", it is Jon who is described to have dreamed of "children". It's not Robb who mirrors Jon in what he would name his sons, that was only ever Jeyne, the only one whose grief is shown over the lost opportunity. "He liked that, I think." She isn't even sure.

Robb is a warrior king, but GRRM utterly avoids showing him in a position that could be interpreted as fatherly. And he never gets to live long enough to become a father to the next generation of Starks. GRRM makes sure to emphasize that his enemies prevented it from ever happening. He remains the Young Wolf forever.

Jon, meanwhile, is shown in a paternal caring light in his very first appearance.

Jon likes children. He is good with children. He wants children. This matters because of the massive role parenting styles play in the books. Tywin's children are monsters because he made them that way. Ned's children are resilient because he and Catelyn raised them responsibly, lovingly, in spite of some failings.

Jon being emphasized to have the skillset to raise children well is a very important signal that he is fit to have a hand in the next generation of House Stark, that his presence and influence will be not just possible but vital. It's not his "blood and seed" that is required, it is his whole person.

[hellkeepers-if]

DEMO (prologue out) UPDATES

Set in an alternate version of Singapore, you're a fresh university graduate bumbling through life as you desperately look for a job.

...Or that's what your mother thinks. In a world where occult ceremonies are as common as an existential crisis, there's no way you were ever going to be a perfectly average office worker. Just like your twin brother, you work for the International Society Of Exorcists (ISOE) which deals with supernatural occurrences, demonic rituals, and the like.

When a tragic event befalls your older sister, it uproots your entire life and everything you ever knew about the supernatural. With it, comes a forced need to come to terms with a family history straight out of the movies. 

After all, how the hell did it take twenty years to find out that you're descended from the freaking king of the underworld?

"I have a duty to myself, but more importantly, my family."

——————

Inspired by Supernatural, Fullmetal Alchemist, Noragami, and the Percy Jackson series, Hellkeepers is a +18 urban fantasy/paranormal interactive fiction, involving elements of Chinese and Southeast-Asian mythology. In every playthrough, you will...

• Play as a female, male, or non-binary Chinese demigod/ess.

• Determine the relationships between you and your family members. After all, they will play a big part in your story...

• Peel apart the full truth behind you and your siblings' birthright. Your parents can't hide it forever.

• Learn more about Chinese and Southeast Asian mythology as you warp into different dimensions, unlike anything you've seen before.

• Learn more about who you were in your past life.

| Nishimura Kazuo (he/him)

Age: 26

Ethnicity: Japanese

With a penchant for mischief and a charm that woos even the most stubborn of grandmas, Kazu is the wildcard of your organization. You think he's an anarchist, and the only reason he's tied down to the ISOE is so that he has an excuse for whatever havoc he wreaks on the supernatural. 

The A-ranked exorcist is your colleague and your brother's mentor, though you rarely ever see him in his office. But if you ever need him for demon fighting, he'll be there. Most of the time.

"Mind taking that pesky thing out for me while I take a quick nap?"

| Quentin Khanh (Quan) (he/him)

Age: 25

Ethnicity: Vietnamese

Quentin, more affectionately known as Quan, was your childhood friend. After he moved overseas, the weekly texts you sent him fizzled into nothing but a lost friendship.

Since then, he's returned to Singapore as a forensics pathologist and researcher under your organisation. Whether you like it or not, you have to no choice but to work with him for most of your investigations.

"If your bribe doesn't involve a penthouse worth of money, don't talk to me."

| Reyna Aliyah Santos (she/her)

Age: 23

Ethnicity: Mixed (Filipino-Chinese)

You've never quite met someone like Reyna. A halfling with a demon mother and a human father. Being raised in Singapore all her life with little knowledge of her parents, it's natural that Reyna would come to the ISOE for help at the mere instance of a fox tail and white fur.

You've been tasked to help her mask and get comfortable with her supernatural powers, but she won't make it easy for you. After all, foxes do bite. 

"Technically, I'm not stealing anything if they don't notice."

| Song Huayun (she/her)

Age: ????

Ethnicity: "Uhh...from Hell?" Chinese

| You don't know too much about Huayun, except for the fact that she lives in Diyu, the Chinese Underworld. As Diyu's gatekeeper, Huayun has seen countless depravities committed by humans before their deaths. That alone has made it hard for her to like them, and the contempt she shows you is no different than what she shows everyone else.

But with time, maybe she'll finally learn what it is like to feel human…and what a smile is.

"If it isn't the star of tonight's show. Welcome to Diyu."

| The Arbiter of Fate (m/f)

Theyre a stranger, or so you say. But this deity knows everyone...especially you.

[ari-cuno]

Feelings are hard.

A quick Aim and Axel drabble

Tw: Angst, Post-Partum Depression (implied) , sickness

Axel belongs to me

Aim belongs to @zu-is-here

Anko was just an accident…a fluke. Certainly not an unwanted accident, just a little blip that wasn't planned.

Axel certainly hadn't planned on becoming a parent so soon out of all his siblings, especially his sisters, with their already blooming relationships. He was alone for the most part before this, the girl of his dreams having rejected him and leaving him in the pitiful ‘friendzone’ as they say. He'd never been the best at expressing his feelings to others besides his immediate family. It was hard to ask for help, or to show weakness, especially when so many people relied on him during harsh times his parents were gone.

…and then he found Aim.

Axel had wanted to explore how far he could go in his multiverse, despite the warnings from his mother about straying too far, thinning the borders between their world and those of an entirely different multiverse. Oras had done it before when she met alternate versions of important out codes and even when communicating with the voices, but he was…in search of someone.

His worst fear was he'd be long gone by then, time was strange between worlds afterall. Axel sort of was annoyed by his parents revealing his immortality so late. He'd remembered sensing a little spark so long ago in his childhood that stuck close to his heart for so many years.

Axel searched for what felt like forever, a grassy field before him with a tall, healthy apple tree in front of him. When all hopes seemed lost he hadn't noticed a much larger skeleton looking surprised a few feet away from him.

“...Can I help you?”

Axel laid his head on the soft cushion tiredly, although it did nothing to stop the constant aching sensation in his body.

…no one had told him being a parent could be so scary.

There were never any troubles with Anko. He'd appeared one day, only serving to complicate the relationship between Axel and the couch potato Aim had reserved himself to. He wasn't born by normal means, he'd just appeared one day, a happy little accident that was quickly accepted into the family.

But this was different.

The baby currently curled up in the bed in front of him wailing away hadn't been made like that.

Axel understood Aims' way of affection, he understood and respected that way in which he showed it. There had been a spark one day, and whether they thought of it or not, a decision was made. Axel had wanted more, he'd wanted love, he wanted to be someone worth loving…but also love others that way too.

…

“Shhh…” Axel tried to hush the suffering little girl gently, her soft cries making it hard for him to focus his own thoughts. It was hard being weak for so many months, the vulnerability was foreign to him, even with the support he was shown. And yet…things hadn't been okay.

He was scared, oh so scared. Eve, his beautiful daughter, their beautiful daughter… had been born sick.

She was sick, and they didn't know why. Her body and soul were weak, leaving her vulnerable and frail. Despite his powerful magic and blood…what could have gone wrong?

Axel tried so hard, he tried to give her whatever worked to ease her pain. It had been several weeks since her birth…and it had gotten worse. Nothing was working, she still coughed, cried, and the most he could do was hush her for but a brief moment. He'd left her older brother with his parents for the time being.

It would be scary if Anko saw one of his parents crying.

It made him feel weak and ugly, but the tears streamed down his face as he reached out, holding Eve's little hand with a gentle yet fierce grip. It was hard to resist the urge to make his crying vocal, but he choked back little sobs as he stared down at her. It wasn't fair. She didn't deserve to suffer so young. It was terrifying, he wasn't…wasn't sure how she would feel better- *if* she would feel better-

“...Axel?”

Axel took a deep breath, quickly trying to wipe his tears away and hide the stains left on the blanket below. “A-Aim… ?” He said, silently cursing himself for stuttering like a fool.

Aim was there, orange tinted goggles and the large body of a huggable man. Even through the goggles he could see the concern on the tallers face. “Everything okay? I heard her crying, but…” Aim paused, watching Axel desperately trying to recompose himself.

“...Were you crying-”

He was going to hate himself for this later.

Axel practically fell into the man he loved for most of his life. He buried himself in his taller frame, unable to stop the cries from coming out. He needed this…

Aim was momentarily stunned as Axel sobbed, weeks of pure exhaustion, worry, and fear crashing down on him in an instant.

“I'm sorry…” Axel apologized quietly, trying to calm himself down. “She's not getting better…I don't know what to do…”

There was a heavy silence.

“I'm scared…I can't do this alone…” Axel finally confessed, “...I need you. I want to be more with you…“ he whispered in a slight pleading tone.

“I love you...”

[suikung]

may i request some shikamaru x lil!sis headcanons?

| Brother!Shikamaru

| TW. Incest

Shikamaru was the prized sibling in the family, and the Nara clan. From the moment he started in the academy, his genius was noticed. Your parents equally loved you, however you could tell they knew you weren’t as gifted as Shikamaru. And Shikamaru obviously knew that. But to him, it’d be better for it to stay that way.

You started the academy a year after him, and immediately the instructors could tell a difference between your brother and you. They held you to such high standards because of him, and when they weren’t met, all you would receive was a look of disappointment. It crushed you to know you’d never be as good as him. But it didn’t deter you from training hard day and night.

He didn’t allow you to have friends, even if he did. It was always something along the lines of “They’re just a drag you know. No need to concern yourself with them.” It almost felt he took all the friends for himself so there wouldn’t be none left over for you.

He was and continues to be the biggest manipulator. His words might seem innocent to any pair of ears, but he knew to yours, they would crush your self esteem. “Come on, why train so hard? Just accept the way you are.” They might seem as if he encouraged self acceptance but in reality he was firm on the belief you’d never advance.

As the years went on, his words only weighed heavier. He tried his best to convince you not to take the chunin exams. Wasn’t being a genin enough for you? You already were assigned missions. And he hated it. You now needed to uphold a responsibility to the village and he sadly couldn’t keep you at home. Couldn’t you see he was doing this all for your safety.

When Asuma-sensei died, it further showed to him the cruelties of this shinobi world. And soon he know that the King, was not the Hokage or Feudal lord, but you. Just like the knight, he’d work even harder to protect you. Conveniently for him, you’d been dispatched on a mission and had come back severely injured. While he vowed to find those who did this to you, he also petitioned with Lady Tsunade to have you relieved of being a shinobi. “She’s not capable of continuing to do this Lady Tsunade. I say this with her best interest in mind.” Just like that, you had returned to being a normal civilian.

During the 4th Great Ninja war, you stayed home. Despite the village needing all the power they could get, Shikamaru did not let you join. “You haven’t done anything in forever. Do you seriously think joining the war would result in you coming back alive?” He was right. Your brother was always right, so you stayed home. You waited for both him and your father to return, however only Shikamaru came back. The loss of your father weighing so heavily on the family, your mother shortly followed suit.

Now he had nothing but you. He had lost the people who would always talk sense into him, give him a guiding push in life when his path might stray. But now? He had no one to tell him what he might do is wrong. So he let his instincts take over. His feelings suppressed for so many years, he could finally let them over when the time was right. And that time would be when you turned 18.

Shikamaru was now 19, you 18. He led the clan on his own after the war. But he needed someone to do it with him. You had now become his wife. Nothing out of the ordinary in this society. Pure bred clans were a normal things. However now he possessed so much more control over you.

Immediately you were left to uphold a traditional housewife life. He was cunning, already he kept you inside as much as he could but now as his wife he could finally put his ultimate move on the board. You had fallen pregnant.

Now he controlled every single thing in your life. What time you ate. What you ate. Who you were around, what if they caused you stress and in turn harmed the baby? But to him most importantly, when you went outside. He was still a Shinobi, he couldn’t be around you 24/7. But this allowed him to keep you inside, for what seemed like forever. Only ever being outside when he couldn’t take your begging and crying anymore to be free. But his plan worked. And if he had to, he’d continue to keep you pregnant if it meant you’d never have to step foot outside again.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

A/n I love him and his fucked up hairlime

[dirtytransmasc]

atwow hot take:

if jake had said his "son for a son" shit out loud and spider had heard him, he would have been so beyond pissed, he would be seeing red.

spider loved his little siblings so much, neteyam included, even after they grew apart. he loved them like they were his own blood and protected them like they were too (we see a lot more of them together in the comics, where spider is the big brother without a doubt). neteyam's death most certainly rocked him hard, even if he hasn't really been able to show it (how could he? he's already going through all the shit with his dad and the RDA and their nonsense, he can't grieve around neytiri, he's just so tired after it all. he doesn't have the room or the energy to grieve yet)

so if jake had the audacity to say that to/around spider not even a few hours after he watched his little brother get shot after coming to save him, after he stared at the bullet hole in his back, after he watched him take his last breaths, after he watched the light leave his eyes, after he watched his little brother die for him; if he said that while his little brother's body lay in a pool of his own blood not even ten feet away, not even cold yet, blood still clinging to his chest, the scent of it still filling the air: he would have lost his shit.

because the disrespect for his brother is wild.

jake was an active player in spider's neglect and abuse for the last 16 years, he let it happen, he helped it happen. he tried to send spider with the humans, tried to take him away from his siblings, from the forests, from eywa to live with his foster family that didn't love him (not to mention Nash was an asswipe of epic proportions) and the RDA of all people. he had referred to spider as a stray animal since he was little. he was the reason spiders life was hell.

and after all that, years and years of putting him in shit positions and allowing him to suffer the fate of being forever unloved and uncared for (by an adult authority figure, cause I love the kids, but they don't make up for the gap left by a parent), this is what it took for jake to care about him? his little brother had to die in front of him first? he had to be traded out to fill the space of a corpse, to fill in the gap left by his little brother's death?

in canon, spider was in deep in shock with nothing to break him from it, he wasn't in the place to really think about any of it, and I'm sure we're gonna see this anger in the coming movies, but if jake had said it out loud, that would have been enough to snap spider right out of it, and he would have given jake a piece of his mind, I just know it.

[rlimagi]

Was It Casual pt.2

Pairing: Chloe Charming x reader

Genre: Fluff

Note: I’m currently having writer’s block, I legit can’t think of anything good rn so here’s the part two of was it casual!

You were lost for words when your best friend suddenly confessed her love for you. In that moment, everything around you went silent and all you heard was your own heartbeat and her voice.

God, you loved her voice. You loved everything about Chloe. Her eyes made the stars look like they’re not shining, her hair falls perfectly without her trying. If perfect was a person, that would be Chloe Charming. She was your everything, the reason for your laughter, the one person that never failed to put a smile on your face.

Chloe Charming was someone you can’t live without, she’s your oxygen, and your everything.

You grew up being treated like a princess, because you were one. You acted like one, you dressed like one, and you felt like one. But as good as the pros sounded being royalty and all, it was not fun having a grandmother looking over your shoulders every time you do something she claimed a princess would not even think of doing.

Your parents loved you and your sister Audrey, but your grandmother somehow would always have the upper hand on the way you and your sibling were raised. You grew up with your grandmother imprinting thoughts in your head that you should secure a prince as soon as you’re of age to maintain the family’s status.

And you really tried your best to look at a boy the same way you looked at girls, but you couldn’t. Imagine the look on her face if you were to tell her that you’ve been daydreaming about a happily ever after with another princess instead of a prince like your grandmother had envisioned.

You knew you liked girls at a young age, no. You liked a girl, one that just happened to be your best friend. And you grew to love her as the years passed.

Chloe Charming was everything you’ve ever wished for in a prince, she was charming, witty, athletic, and very kind but she was also someone you could always talk about anything and everything to. For the longest time, you’ve had trouble understanding why you felt so much love whenever you looked at her.

But you knew you could never love her like you wanted to, it was wrong. A princess should look for love in a prince, not another princess. It was suffocating but you could never hurt your grandmother, even if it meant that you will never truly be happy with a prince.

So you convinced yourself that maybe, it was just a phase. Girls shouldn’t like other girls.

But why did you feel so relieved when Chloe poured her heart into confessing her love for you. It took everything in you not to pull her into your arms and tell her you loved her back. Because while you knew you loved her, you wasn’t sure if it was romantically or platonically anymore.

Did you want her to be your best friend forever or did you want her to be yours and only yours for all eternity?

“Chloe, I…” You cursed yourself in your head for being such an idiot, was that the only words you could say after the love of your life poured her heart out for you?

“I’m sorry, I should go…” Chloe mumbled, looking so heart broken as tears bubbled up in her eyes, threatening to fall anytime soon. You wanted to run after her and pour your heart out like she did for you, but you couldn’t. While your heart shattered as hers did, you weren’t brave enough to admit that you felt the same about her.

While Chloe and Red had people they could talk to since their mothers were still studying in Merlin academy, you didn’t because your mother wasn’t even born yet. So you turned to Red, the only person you know aside from Chloe.

“I know this is kind of stupid that I’m asking you of all people, but how do you know if you love someone?” You sat beside the bench that Red was sitting out, totally tired after running around the whole school trying to find her.

“First of all, yes it is stupid. I’m actually very flabbergasted and I’m glad you’re self aware and secondly, shouldn’t you be asking Chloe about this kind of stuff instead of me?” Red immediately came for your neck for even thinking of asking her that but you chose to ignore her bold use of words.

“Chloe and I aren’t exactly on speaking terms, not like we had a fight or anything…it’s complicated.” You explained, not wanting to give off that Chloe might be the reason why you’d ask her about love. “But really, how do you know if you loved someone romantically and not as a friend?”

“Well, for starters love is a strong word and based on the fact that you’re even asking tells me that you might in fact love that person romantically. But don’t take my words seriously, you’re looking at a girl who had never experienced being loved.” Red chuckled bitterly, her expression turned sullen and you regretted asking her about that kind of thing in the first place.

“I’m sorry Red, I shouldn’t have asked.” You apologized sincerely as you pulled her into a hug, usually she would push you away but she didn’t this time.

“No, it’s fine…I’m fine, but did you at least get the answer you were looking for?” Red asked once you pulled away from the hug.

She made you realize that you loved Chloe in that ‘I love her so much that all I want is for her to be mine and no one else’s’ way all along but you were just in denial.

After you became sure of yourself, you nodded confidently. “I think I did and you’re such a big help. Thanks Red!” You gave her one last hug before you began running off. Totally ignoring the confused calls Red was sending as she stared at your fading figure blankly, unsure of what just happened.

“You’re welcome?”

The moment you stepped back into the school grounds, you immediately saw Chloe walking back into the school. Presumably from mom’s house.

“Chloe!” You shouted after her, at first she was hesitant and ignored your calls but eventually you caught up to her and pulled her aside to a place nobody was at.

“I’m sorry.” Were the first few words you managed to say as you tried to come up with words to express yourself.

“For what? It’s not your fault for not loving me back, it’s mine for thinking you might.” Chloe mumbled, avoiding your eyes like her life depended on it.

“Listen to me Chloe. I do love you, so much, I think too much actually…” Your voice trailed off when your eyes landed on her lips but then quickly went up back to her eyes when she opened up her mouth.

“You’re just saying that to make me feel better, I understand. It’s fine, Yn. You don’t have to do that, I’ll get over it.” Chloe frowned, it was hurting her that you were just saying that because you didn’t want to hurt her.

“No, no, no…you don’t understand. I…I’ve been trying for a long time to figure out how I felt about you, but you know how my grandmother is and the influence she has or more like had on me. I thought that as a princess I should only fall for a prince. So when you confessed to me, I wasn’t able to process it clearly that you loved me in that way.” You poured your heart into your rant like how she did to you a few hours before. It felt so good to not keep it in anymore. “I love you, and I’m sorry for not saying it sooner.”

Chloe stayed quiet for a minute, her mind was going all over the place. You loved her back. You, loved her back! And it was the only thing that mattered.

“May I?” She asked softly as she gently lifted your chin up with her hands. You nodded. Her lips turned into full smile as she placed her lips onto yours.

[ashleyhuh]

How depressing the "good ol' bad times" really were and hints at something more sinister with Mrs. Graves

The lemon muffin flashback that Ashley witnesses really gives us a glimpse into their childhood and how poorly they were treated by their parents especially Ashley. The flashback brings us back to before Nina's death and really show how absolutely fucked Ashley's position was in life at that time. Staring depressingly at a birthday card and asking Andrew why mom can never afford anything when her birthday comes around despite clear signs the family can afford Andrew a birthday.

Another small hint as well to how deep this favoritism runs is when Andrew talks about his allowance. It's clear to us that Ashley doesn't have an allowance despite Andrew having and while they are 2 years apart I don't think that can fully explain Ashley's lack of it as well. Mrs. Graves clearly sees Ashley as not worthy of an allowance and therefore doesn't deserve one.

One thing that I really appreciate in this scene is Andrew's willingness to help cheer up his sister and to make her birthday at least a little less depressing. Ashley's "friends" never making time for her as well really cemented in her brain how much she needs Andrew as he was the only one that would even consider doing what he did for her. Ashley at the end of the flashback telling Andrew she wishes Andrew lost all of his friends and never found love wasn't some sort of manipulative tactic, but both a subconscious cry for help and her wishes to be with the only person that cares about her forever.

This whole sequence really puts into perspective Ashley's mindset and how harshly it was shaped from childhood. From an early age she was taught that nobody cares about her except her brother which is why she is so attached to him and willing to do anything to keep him around.

Part of this too gives us small hints to how also she became such a "problem child" to Mrs. Graves. Ashley, due to her neglect, probably wasn't punished ever, just ostracized and yelled at by her mom. Speaking from personal experience from my own childhood usually when a parent doesn't want to deal with a "problem child" they usually resort to tactics like making the older sibling pacify them instead not matter what the other was doing. However did Ashley ever really think of what she did wrong if her reward was getting time with Andrew? Of course not, however depressive thoughts can really be seen to manifest when she is alone as she doesn't have her Andy to help distract her from how isolated and hated she feels. This only rewarded her behavior and let other thoughts begin to take shape like how she dealt with Nina. A child doesn't just suddenly think to use someone's death as leverage to control another. It's learned. Thoughts like that spawn from maternal trauma and the action of "locking someone away until they learn to behave." is a natural extension of ostracization with how isolated Ashley felt, it's natural to start developing and agreeing with those feelings as natural progression to be with the one she loves most. Forever.