#to avoid suspicion ofc

[bruciemilf]

Battinson and Dick going trick or treating as Batman and Robin. Except Bruce is Robin and Dick is Batman.

[sanjisleggy]

i just need more time to be loved by you (roronoa zoro x reader)

req: Could you please do a Zoro x reader (fem or gn)  where the reader is trying to plan a surprise thing for him and has been hanging around Sanji more to help get stuff prepared and in the process accidentally is ignoring Zoro. Zoro starts to worry that he isn't romantic or affectionate enough like Sanji and will loose the reader to him. Maybe Zoro even starts purposefully avoiding the reader like the mindset of 'if we don't talk I can't be broken up with'. Idk hurt comfort please make me cry but end nice 🩷

a/n: ngl i rubbed my hands together like a raccoon or smth when i was brainstorming for this req bc i’m just a sucker for hurt/comfort that isn’t dramatic hehe anyway thanks for 100 followers! :D i’ve been having a great time writing for one piece these past few weeks, everyone has been so kind :3c

contents: some suggestive content (16+ only ty!), insecure! jealous!Zoro, suspicions of cheating (but no actual cheating ofc), miscommunication, hurt/comfort and reverse comfort, angst to fluff

wc. 3.9k

wanna be on my taglist?

i. 

for the first time in over a year, Zoro wakes up in an empty bed.

the absence of a familiar weight resting on his chest nearly startles him awake, his brain skipping over the initial first few minutes of grogginess most feel when they’ve just woken up. he runs his hands over your side of the mattress before crawling over it just enough to check if you’re on the floor. 

it dawns on him, in that moment, that this is the first time you’ve gotten up and left before him since you began seeing each other. usually Zoro would be the one waking up at the break of dawn to get some early morning training in, always carefully taking a few minutes to lift your sleeping form off his body and place you back on your assigned end of the bed without waking you. it never seems to matter if you went to bed cuddling or not, somehow, throughout the night, you always find your way on top of him.

setting aside the foreign feeling in his stomach, Zoro decides to go look for you–he tells himself he’s just curious about the reason for your absence but the part he won’t admit is that he just misses seeing you first thing in the morning. 

it doesn’t take him long to find you, catching a glimpse of your back when he’s walking past the open kitchen door. before he can decide to get your attention, however, Zoro realises you’re not alone.

in front of a counter upon which is laid half-used utensils and uncooked ingredients stands you and the crew’s one and only chef. you’re both deeply engaged in a conversation spoken in a volume low enough that the swordsman can barely make out any of the words. he does, however, notice that you’re wearing Sanji’s favourite apron–it’s a tad too long for someone of your height, or maybe the stupid chef just has freakishly long legs, who knows? –and it causes his heart to stir in a way he struggles to describe to even himself.

if Zoro had to choose a past feeling that comes the closest to comparing, it would have to be when he’d challenged Dracule Mihawk to a duel and lost.

“oh, no, my sweet,” Sanji finally says something loud enough for Zoro to hear from behind the two of you. “you’d want to pinch it more than just squish it,” he continues before repositioning himself behind you to demonstrate. it’s hard to see exactly what the two of you are doing but it’s clear to the swordsman that the pervert chef’s most likely cupping your hands in his to guide your movement with whatever dish you’re seemingly making together.

Zoro isn’t surprised that you don’t try to push Sanji away in any capacity, not due to any lack of trust between him and you but because you’ve always been a very physically affectionate person. it was one of his first impressions of you when you joined the crew at the behest of Luffy. it was common on the Merry–and still is on the Sunny–to see you hugging, holding the hands or even kissing the cheeks of your companions in the most platonic sense. it’s just the way you show your happiness.

although every bone in Zoro’s body is screaming at him to storm in and tear Sanji away from you, a sudden realisation washing over him roots his feet to the ground.

is this what you actually need from me? if i touch you more, would you need it less from the others?

the swordsman can’t help but recall how just last night you’d kept bugging him for pre-sleep cuddles but he pushed your needy hands away every time.

“it’s too hot and humid tonight for that,” he grumbled after you frowned at his rejection.

“you’ve been saying that for the past two weeks,” you whined, wiggling around your side of the bed in protest.

“well, too bad the weather’s just been too hot. it’s not my fault.” he shrugged. when your frown only deepened, he decided to give you a few forehead kisses as compensation. “now stop being a brat and go to sleep.” 

Zoro walks away from the kitchen, opting to leave you and the chef alone; and wonders if you would’ve been in bed this morning when he woke up had he caved in and given you the cuddles you so wanted just last night.

he only sees you again when the sun’s started to set and all of the Straw Hats begin to gather for dinner. instead of taking your usual seat beside him, you end up serving him a plate of onigiri with a wide grin on your face instead.

“here’s your serving, my love,” you say with a satisfied hum that only serves to confuse the man. surely these are just the usual onigiri Sanji occasionally makes for meals, right? “how does it taste?” you ask after he takes a bite.

it tastes richer today and the rice is fluffier.

“it tastes the same as always.” the swordsman shrugs, physically incapable of praising anything remotely made by the crew’s dedicated cook. “why?” he adds when he catches the way your smile falters at his reply.

“nothing, it’s nothing.” you lean over to kiss his temple. his heart has been so deprived of your affection for the entire day that the simple gesture is enough to make him forget about your faltering smile from just mere seconds ago.

ii.

the next morning, after the Thousand Sunny has docked at a new island, Zoro wakes up yet again to an empty bed. this time, though, he wastes no time getting up and jumping into the shower after remembering a specific conversation from a week ago.

“we should go out on a date when we reach the next island,” you’d said, your bare sweaty chest sticking to his as you rested on top of him after an eventful night together.

“whatever you want,” he’d hummed in agreement as he rubbed your sides and back in an attempt to soothe the parts of your skin he’d been a bit too rough with. “we can even go right after we dock.”

rushing out the door of your shared quarters, green locks still dripping with water, Zoro makes it out just in time to catch you alighting the Sunny with two of your fellow Straw Hats: Chopper and, much to his dismay, Sanji. the three of you walk towards the bustling town together with the reindeer in between you and the chef with one hoof holding your right hand as his other holds Sanji’s left. 

Zoro feels the same stirring sensation from yesterday in his chest, except this time its intensity has increased tenfold. a bitterness forms in the back of his throat when he realises, if he wasn’t really paying attention, how much the three of you look like a family: a mother, a father and their child.

for a split second he imagines the kind of future you could have with someone like Sanji–someone who could provide for you and your children in a more meaningful way than a swordsman can. after all, what’s the point of teaching your kid how to wield a sword if you can’t even feed them properly, right?

a part of Zoro considers catching up to your little group and grabbing the basket from your other hand to replace it with his own. it would be a foreign experience to him, not usually being one to initiate even something as simple as hand-holding—aside from the times when your lives were being threatened and he needed to make sure you escaped safely with him.

the swordsman feels his face heat up at the thought of holding your hand for no reason other than the action itself. he tries to recall the last time you wormed your hand into his, intertwining your fingers with his calloused digits. Zoro remembers how soft your skin felt, how cold your hand initially was before it was engulfed in his warmer palm, and his heart skips a beat. 

by the time he snaps himself out of his reverie, he realises you’re nowhere to be seen.

”what’s bothering you, swordsman?” a familiar voice speaks from behind him. without turning around, Zoro simply shrugs in response.

”i don’t know what you’re talkin’ about.”

he hears Robin chuckle before he feels her hands sprouting from his shoulders to gently turn him around. though he really doesn’t want to talk about his feelings to the archeologist, he decides it’s better to comply than to fight it.

her arms are crossed as she looks at him with a smile. Zoro can’t help but compare her expression to that of a person seeing a pitiful baby animal struggling with eating solid foods for the first time—they know the only thing they can really do is watch.

”i think you should talk to her. you won’t know what she’s thinking unless you ask.”

Zoro curses under his breath. had he really been that obvious with his pining? how pathetic he must look to the rest of his crewmates.

how pathetic.

still, he can’t deny that she’s right—Robin always is, most of the time. he knows he’s been making a lot of assumptions lately and it’s not fair to either of you; and yet when he thinks about sitting you down to hear your actual feelings, he fears that not only will he be unable to offer you what you need, you would realise it as well.

would it really be the end of the world? if we go back to just being friends? 

Zoro’s lived his entire life up to this point without any romance, having deluded himself into thinking that any relationship—platonic or romantic—wouldn’t serve his goal of being the best swordsman. if anything, it would only be a distraction. he’d made it far in life with this belief and then, of course, he had to meet Luffy and subsequently: you.

he realises then that he can’t remember what it’s like not being your partner; to not have the privilege of being the one who sleeps beside you every night, to touch and hold and kiss you in ways only appropriate behind closed doors. when he thinks about his future as the world’s greatest swordsman, he can only imagine it with you by his side. it wouldn’t be the same otherwise.

maybe… if we just never talk about this, i can be yours for a little while longer. with a bit more time, maybe i can convince you to keep loving me.

iii.

a few days later, on the morning of the day you’ve been anxiously preparing for for a week now, you wake up, once again, to an empty bed and your heart sinks lower than it did yesterday.

Zoro has been waking up earlier these past few days and you’re unable to find out why. anytime you try to look for him during his usual training hours, you struggle to even find him, let alone spend time with him. for some reason that even the others are unsure of, he’s been training in odd places around the Thousand Sunny, seemingly forgoing the crow’s nest altogether. on the off chance you do manage to run into him, he’ll give you some random excuse for why he “can’t talk right now”.

”Luffy needs me to run some errands.”

”i have an appointment with the local blacksmith.”

”i think i see Chopper drowning.”

clenching your fists in your lap, you stay sitting in bed for a while longer, your heart pounding faster and faster no matter how hard you try to calm it down. you feel your eyes begin to burn with tears as you come to the realisation that maybe Zoro isn’t interested in you anymore. 

under your breath, you curse at whatever god is listening for their horrific timing. you’d spent the past week with Sanji and Chopper meticulously planning for tonight’s surprise birthday picnic and now you’re not sure if you’ll be able to convince your boyfriend to even look at you.

mind racing, you try to recall if you’d done anything to remotely upset him lately but you draw a blank. if anything, you’ve been spending more time away from Zoro in order to maintain the secrecy of your plans but surely that’s not what he’s upset over, right? wouldn’t he have welcomed the me-time with open arms?

finally deciding that it’s really not the time to be overthinking about this, you wipe away your tears and get ready to freshen up for the day. you and the others have put in too much effort into tonight to just throw it all away so you decide that no matter what, you will see it through, even if it ends up being the last time you spend with him as his partner.

iv. 

Zoro’s on the verge of falling asleep whilst sitting upright in bed when the door to your shared quarters bursts open and startles him awake. before he can beat the crap out of whoever it is, Nami’s frantic shouting freezes him in place.

”(Y/N)’s been taken!” his throat tightens as he feels his heart drop and his skin go cold. “quick you need to hurry!” the navigator yells. instinctively he grabs his three swords and leaps out of bed towards the door, more of the Straw Hats coming into view as he exits the room.

”you fucking dumbass mosshead!” Sanji shouts, furious, “sweet (Y/N)’s been kidnapped and you’ve been asleep this whole time?!”

”i-i last saw her being taken away towards the southmost cliff,” Chopper sobs, words muffled by his hooves as he frantically rubs away his never ending tears.

”remember, Zoro,” Sanji grabs the swordsman’s shoulders firmly, “southmost. SOUTH. it’s literally the closest cliff to the dock.”

it does cross Zoro’s mind that the chef’s acting fucking weird but right now isn’t the time for that. without a word, he takes off, running as fast as his legs can carry him toward what he hopes is the right direction. once he’s out of earshot, the Straw Hats let out a collective sigh.

”do you think he’ll make it?” Nami asks no one in particular.

”seeing as he really thinks (Y/N)’s in danger, i’d say so,” Robin replies.

”well, at least we have Usopp keeping an eye on him,” Sanji adds, “if mosshead really gets lost, we can at least rely on Usopp to get him back on the right track.”

a moment of silence passes as they all watch Zoro gradually disappear from view—all except for the sound of Chopper’s sobbing.

”he’s not here anymore, you don’t need to keep crying, Chopper,” Nami says to the doctor. he sniffles as he pulls his hooves away from his face, revealing a mess of snot and tears. 

“i-i know,” he chokes, reaching out to hug Robin’s leg, “i was faking it at first but now i’m scared something will happen and they really do break up.” Chopper lets out another cry, smooshing his face into the archeologist’s pants as he wonders if this is what children feel like when their parents get divorced.

“don’t be silly,” Nami leans down to pat his head, “i’m pretty sure hell would freeze over first before they decide to break up. besides, once Zoro sees all the stuff (Y/N)’s prepared, i think that’ll be the last thing on his mind.” 

v.

the swordsman barely thinks about where he’s going as he makes his way to you, his legs carrying him through twists and turns as though they have a mind of their own. all he can really focus on right now is the sound of his scabbards clicking against one another and the way you’ve been looking at him these past few days.

how your smile would melt away when he gave you another half-assed excuse to leave. how he felt you lingering a distance behind him so many times before your presence disappeared without saying a word. how just last night it seemed like you wanted to ask him something before going to bed, your mouth opening and closing as you laid down beside him, head turned just enough for your eyes to meet his. he’d almost asked you what’s wrong but before he could, you simply shook your head and turned around to go to sleep with your back facing his way.

i’m sorry. i’m sorry i kept avoiding you. i’m sorry i hurt your feelings.

Zoro takes a sharp left turn before he’s halted in his tracks when an entire tree branch falls just a few steps in front of him. before he can manoeuvre his way around the unexpected obstacle, he realises he’s going the wrong way; so he turns around.

i just needed more time to think. i just wanted a bit more time to figure out how to fix myself for you.

through the darkness of the night, his eyes catch a glimpse of light as he nears the edge of the forest that leads to the southmost cliff of the island. heart pounding rapidly in his chest as he continues to run, Zoro readies himself for a fight, to shed as much blood as necessary to bring you home without so much as a scratch on your skin. 

please be okay. this can’t be how it ends for us. i need to tell you that i—

he comes to a sudden stop, the inertia from running at top speed causing him to nearly stumble forwards. still panting heavily as he holds his unsheathed swords by his sides, Zoro simply stands there wordlessly as his eyes take in the sight before him.

you’re by yourself, sitting cross-legged on a large picnic blanket with a large array of food and bottles of alcohol surrounding you. you’re wearing a dress he’s never seen before but it fits you perfectly and he wonders if you’d gotten it just for tonight. you simply smile at Zoro as you wait a good while for the truth to fully dawn on him; to be honest you didn’t expect him to show up so frazzled and upset.

”happy birthday?” you eventually say, unsure yourself why the phrase comes out sounding like a question. still donning a look of shock on his face, Zoro sinks to his knees, dropping his swords onto the grass. he furrows his eyebrows, clearly deep in thought and your own eyes widen when you realise— “did you forget today’s your birthday?”

”i…” he murmurs, “… yeah, i forgot.” he swallows thickly. “is this all for me?”

”of course it is,” you can’t help but laugh a little as you reply, still unable to wrap your head around the fact that he truly did not see this coming at all. “i spent the whole week getting ready for this.”

Zoro feels a pang in his chest.

”you’re not breaking up with me?” he asks, stunning you into silence. for a second you think he’s trying to make some kind of sick joke but you know him well enough to tell from the way he’s staring at you so intensely that he’s being completely honest. “i thought…” the swordsman steadies his voice as best as he can, unable to help the words he’s been keeping hidden from spilling out of his lips, “you’d fallen out of love with me. i thought you just didn’t want to be around me anymore.”

you feel your eyes burn with tears as you hear your own thoughts being spoken aloud in his voice. your bottom lip quivers as you feel an odd mix of relief and sadness wash over you. upon seeing you cry, Zoro scrambles towards you until he’s within arm’s reach.

”no, no,” he clumsily wipes away your tears with the pads of his thumbs as he cups your face in between his hands gently, “please don’t cry. don’t be sad.” you place your own hands over his, keeping them held to your face as you give him a wobbly smile.

”i’m not sad, you silly man,” you reply with fresh tears still running down your face. “i’m so relieved. this whole time i thought you were going to break up with me.”

”what made you think that?” Zoro can’t help but speak with a hint of indignance in his voice.

”you’ve been avoiding me the past few days,” you sniffle, the sound alone twisting his heart even further. “i thought you’d gotten sick of me or something but i didn’t wanna waste all the effort me and the others put into tonight so i thought we could at least have one last date together before you break up with me.” you feel his hands tense up as you speak before a frown spreads across his handsome face once you finish saying your piece.

”i could never,” he responds resolutely, as though offended by the mere idea of ever falling out of love with you. Zoro admits he’d been dodging you in order to avoid being broken up with. “i just thought,” he says, face turning red as he realises how dumb it all sounds now that he’s saying it out loud, “that if i didn’t give you the chance to leave me, i’d have more time to fix myself… to have more time being yours.”

”what’s there to fix?” you can’t help but ask, turning your head ever so slightly to press a kiss against the palm of his right hand. you smile when you notice Zoro’s already blushing face turning a deeper shade of red. “i already love every part of you. don’t you ever dare think again you need to change.”

you let out a squeak of surprise when Zoro lunges towards you without warning, tackling you into a tight hug. his hand reaches out to cushion the back of your head as you fall backwards onto your back with him laying on top of you. running his fingers through your hair, the swordsman gazes down at you warmly as he just now registers the smell of onigiri and sashimi.

”you made all this for me?” he asks in a soft voice, his breath brushing against your face. you nod, smile growing even wider when he leans down to kiss the tip of your nose. “is that why you were hanging around the shitty chef so much?” 

you hum affirmative in response, unable to help the racing of your heart as you bask in the sudden display of physical intimacy he rarely shows you outside of the bedroom. you wonder if he can feel your rapid heartbeat from how closely his chest is pressed against yours.

”the onigiri from earlier this week was my first attempt at making it,” you share before you feel Zoro start to pepper kisses all over your face.

”i lied when i said they tasted the same,” he admits, the occasional syllable muffling from when his lips make contact with your skin. “they tasted really good. i just thought the shitty cook made them so i lied.”

”oh really?” you chuckle as you wrap your arms around his neck, pulling him closer. “i hope you like the ones i made today then.” Zoro brushes the tip of his nose against yours.

”i’d love anything you make for me,” he mumbles before capturing your lips with his own, pulling away only when his lungs begin to scream for air. “thank you for the surprise, (Y/N). i love you.”

”love you, too.” 

—

taglist: @irethepotato @i-reblog-fics-i-like

[lovrre]

Agreement Prt2

I wrote half of this to Need by pinegrove ♫

Art Donaldson x fem black reader

Prt1 here

Word count: 3k

Warnings: smuttt,unprotected sex, creampie,slight breeding kink if you squint. cursing (ofc) slightly domestic relationship (not with Art)and probably some other stuff.

Summary: Despite being engaged to one of the top and richest tennis players in the US, you feel unfulfilled. But everything changes when you transfer schools and meet Art Donaldson, who just can’t quit you.

Author note: I’m so glad I finished I was scared I wasn’t, but your comments gave gave me motivation. Thank you pookies 🫦 I like this one a lot more than the first one. Arts also very obsessed and in love in this one.

After twenty minutes, you finish your meal, alone. You decide to leave through a back exit to avoid the paparazzi waiting outside the hotel entrance. You stumble upon a narrow hallway and carefully make your way out, trying not to attract any attention. When you reach the entrance of the restaurant, you open the door and are greeted by a charming and seemingly empty establishment. The cozy yellow lighting, old pictures, and paintings on the walls, along with the white tablecloths and wooden woven chairs, remind you of an old Italian restaurant you and Art used to go to. You see moving in your peripheral and catch a glimpse of familiar golden locks.

You walk closer to see Art and Patrick sitting at a small square table with a vacant seat, you assume is reserved for you. Patrick with a full plate of food and Art without. "Patrick?" You question, your voice filled with suspicion as you creep towards the table. He looks back at the sound of your In voice, a smile forming on his face as he stands up, “What the hell are you doing here?” You ask, taken aback going in for a hug. Patrick returns it with a laugh before releasing from the hug slightly to look at Art.

“Ask him” You look between them confused. “I asked him to come here” Art states, adjusting in his seat. “Why?“ you ask clearly confused with the situation, “someone could see” you add your gripping the back of your chair almost afraid to sit down. “I bought the place out for an hour, it’s just us” Art reveals looking up at you. “You what?” you exclaim, a bit louder than you intended.

“I’ll explain everything in a minute, just sit” Art laughs, gesturing for you to sit down. You let out a sigh, reluctantly pulling out your chair. “Ok tell me what is going on” you say, slightly impatient. “We’ve got a plan for your marriage situation”, Patrick says, mixing his ice tea with his straw. “A plan?” you repeat, still confused. "Yes, a plan," Art confirms with a nod. Patrick takes a quick sip of his tea before opening a tan folder that he hadn't noticed before. “The private investigator dropped these off at the dorm the other day”, Patrick says, pushing the open folder towards you.

Inside were pictures of your fiancée , kissing all types of women. The worst part is, it was so obvious, he didn’t have a care in the world, every photo taken on different days in different settings. Outside, inside in the morning and at night, all different women.

You knew you shouldn't be upset, but you were, not because he was seeing other people behind your back, shit you were doing that same with Art, but it was the fact he acted holier than thou. That he continued to try and control you while actively putting your agreement at risk. “Wow…” you mutter.

Shuffling through the photos. “That’s not even all of them” Art says.

“Yeah… I accidentally left the other ones, but these are the most important ones. There’s also some paperwork underneath with names, time stamps and dates on stuff” Patrick ads. “How isn’t this everywhere?” You ask, furrowing your brow. “The investigator thinks he’s been paying them off,” Patrick says, taking a sip of his drink.

"Not that I don't want you here, but couldn't you just have faxed these over?" you ask, raising an eyebrow.

"Well, yeah... but then I'd miss the match," Patrick says with a grin, taking a bite of his food. "Plus, I would never miss an opportunity to help my best buds."

"Okay, so what are we doing with these?" you ask, holding up the pictures in confusion.

"We're going to spin it," Patrick replies, still chewing his food. "My plan," Art reminds him, "my bad," Patrick laughs, still chewing his food. You couldn’t help but smile, you’d missed the three of you together.

"We're going to spin it," Art repeats, making you smile wider. "Is this why you're training with my father?" you interject . Art nods in response. "Why didn't you tell me any of this last night?"

Art didn't say anything, a knowing smile spread across his face. Patrick looks between the two of you "freaks," he jokes, "Anyway... how do you plan on spinning it?" You ask, ignoring his comment.

“We lean into the infidelity, take a couple of photos of you crying, the two of you arguing, or something like that release them”, Art explains confidently.

“But… I don’t see how this stops us from getting married, it’ll just look like I got cheated on,” you say, scrunching your brow.

“We’re hoping this, plus me winning today, will be enough to persuade the media against him?”

“You believe you can win?”

“I do,” he nodded.

“Okay… I’m down.”

“Told you,” Patrick added, still drinking his tea.

“Are you especially thirsty or something today?” you ask, tilting your head slightly watching him slurp down his tea. A second one untouched, waiting for him.

“I am actually, thank you for noticing,” Patrick says with a big smile before taking another sip.
You notice Art's eyes drop to Patrick’s plate for a second time while you two are talking.

“You should eat.”

“What?” Patrick says, looking between the two of you who seemed to be having your own conversation. 

“No, I’m okay,” Art says, shaking his head.

“Mike had French toast for breakfast, I think you could have-“ you cut yourself off, looking down at Patrick’s plate. “Egg and sausage.”

“You guys aren’t talking about my food?” Patrick asks, slightly disturbed by your conversation.

“Patrick, I can buy you some more damn eggs,” you assure him as Art pulls the plate from under him.

“What just happened?” Patrick asked, looking around confused with no food in front of him.

Your phone rings, and you look down to see who it is. “It’s my Dad,” you inform, excusing yourself you answering the phone as you walk out of earshot.

The two of them watch your backside as you walk away. “She still looks good”, Patrick bites his lip, leaning over to Art.


“Careful, ” Art warns.


“What? you guys can joke about but I can’t?”


“Exactly”, Art laughs, plucking him on the head.

~~~~

With a dig, the elevator door opens, releasing you to your floor. You walk to your room, opening the door with your key card. Mike is packing stuff away in his duffle bag, getting ready to see your father. You don’t acknowledge him walking past him into the bedroom,leaving the door open. You sit on the edge of the bed carefully taking off your heals, you stand up and unzip the back of your dress with ease. The dress gracefully falls into a pile at your feet leaving you in only your underwear. You step over your dress and begin looking through your suitcase located in the closet. The sound of footsteps causes you to look up to see Mike in the doorway watching you.


“Where are you going?” Mike asked, leaning on the door frame slightly. You don’t answer right away looking for your dress under your neatly folded clothes. “There’s a press meeting with Art Donaldson's team, My Dad thought it’d look good if I’d came ” you say, moving more clothes around. “You didn’t come to mine” Mike states still watching you search.

“You didn’t ask me to” you responded, pulling out a light pink dress from your suitcase. There’s a beat of silence as Mike watches your actions "and you need to change for this press meeting?” Mike asks, raising an eyebrow. "No, but I want to” you say, standing up. When you see mike's eyes roaming up and down your body, you suddenly remembered you were only in your underwear. 


“Can you turn around or something” you ask, scrunching your face up in disgust. “I’ve seen more than this” Mike chuckles before obliging and turning around. You roll your eyes by stepping into your dress. “I’m sorry for how I acted this morning, I’m just stressed,” he admits.

" Really?," you hum, pulling up the straps of your dress.

"I don't want to be that guy," Mike responds, still facing away.

"But you are constantly being that guy..." you mumble, but Mike hears you. 

"I won't anymore. I want this marriage to work y/n, I.”


You release a heavy sigh at his word. “You can turn around now ” You announce zipping up the side of your dress. Mike turns around and watches as you sit back on the edge of the bed putting on your heels. “You’re still going to that thing?” Mike asks with a confused expression. “What about that conversation gave off the vibe that I was no longer going?” You say pulling your stiletto over your heel.


Mike goes silently for a moment watching you walk toward the bathroom. “Like you need more makeup?” Mike scoffs. “Be honest with me are you fucking him?” He asks from behind you in the doorway while you remove a bit of smudged lipstick. “are you serious right now?” You ask staring at him through the reflection in the mirror. “I’m not a fucking idiot, I saw the way you looked at each other, and I get the feeling that’s wasn’t your first time meeting” 


“Only god knows what you’re doing at that college” you can’t stop your self from laughing. “I think you’re projecting” you say walking past him towards the door, picking up your purse on the way. “Where the fuck are you going?” Mike calls out, following you. 

You swing the door open and step out into the hallway. Mike trails behind and tries to grab your arm to pull you back inside. “DONT TOUCH ME!” You yell yanking your arm back. “C’mon Don’t make a scene” Mike says looking around. 


“You have some fucking nerve, you know that? Your friend Isabel came up here earlier looking for you, I’m guessing you guys have a lot of fun In Detroit” you say with a smile. “When were you in Detroit again…my birthday? You ask rhetorically, Mike goes silent for a moment before responding.
 "I don't know what you're talking about," he says, trying to keep his voice down. "You don't?" you question. "What about Sarah, Kim, Kate, Alex? Do you not know them either?" Mike opens his mouth, then closes it. "Yeah…" you drawl, 


"they meant nothing to me... I just needed to get it out of my system before fully committing. I want this to work, I want this to be real, y/n," Mike says, trying to corner against the door in a situation similar to the one you were in with Art last night.

"That's the dumbest shit I've ever heard," you respond, attempting to push past him. He grabs you again using his strength. You had forgotten how strong he actually was. “Last warning” you say looking up at Mike. he can tell by the look in your eyes you’re serious, he doesn’t know exactly what you’re going to do but something in his gut said don’t test it. “Let. Go” you repeat one more time before a voice interrupts you.

“Is everything ok?” Patrick asked from the end of the hallway. "Yeah, everything's fine," Mike reassured with a smile, gently releasing his grip on him. "We'll continue this conversation later," Mike says, forcing a tight-lipped smile as he presses the elevator button. "No, we won't," you smile back with a wave, as the elevator door chimes and he leaves. "Are you okay?" Patrick asks, walking up to you. "Yeah, he wasn’t going to hit me, he knows better," you laugh. "I was actually more concerned about you hitting him," Patrick jokes.

“I got the picture though” he smiles, showing you a camera and clicking through the images of your altercation with Mike.”These are good, you should take them now, I’ll call Art and tell him I’m on the way” you say, pulling out your phone.

“I’ll miss the game” Patrick states with a slight pout.

“Not if you hurry.”

~~~~~

"I won't keep you much longer, just a few more questions," the female interviewer says, holding the microphone up to Art. "Was the training for this upcoming match particularly challenging?" Before the interviewer could finish her sentence, Art was shaking his head. "Not necessarily, different for sure, but not harder."

"As of now, can you confirm or deny the rumor that you have started working with Olympic Coach Dylan Y\L\N?" the interviewer asked, lifting the mic slightly closer to his mouth. "Ummm," Art hesitates, accompanied by a smile. "I think I can. Yes, Dylan is my new coach."

"So you and your opponent today have trained under the same coach?" the interviewer asks, scrunching her brow. "Yes, we have," Art nods. "One more question, is there any special woman in Art Donaldson's life right now?" the interviewer asks with a smile. The sound of camera clicking intensifies, catching Art's attention. Intrigued, the interviewer turns around as well. "She is beautiful," Art says absentmindedly, staring in the direction where you're coming from. You give small waves to friends as you walk in. "That's your opponent's fiancé... and I guess also your trainer's daughter?" the interviewer says, looking confused and turning back to face Art.

"Really?" Art asks, faking shock with a dazed expression. "Yes," the interviewer nods. "I mean.. I meant what I said, She is beautiful," Art said with a laugh, causing the interviewer to join in. His eyes never leaving you. "Does your coach know you have a crush on his daughter?" the interviewer joked, chuckling. "He might now," Art says with a laugh before giving a quiet , "Nice meeting you," as he walks away out of frame.

A short while later, you find yourself reaching for a bottle of water from a nearby table, inserting one of those adorable green straws they had. Just as you're about to take a sip, a voice catches you off guard from behind. "There you are," Art says, a smile lighting up his face as he jogs towards you. As he approaches, you can't help but notice how close he gets, almost too close.

"You're not exactly great at keeping secrets, huh?" you chuckle, taking a step back. Art smirks, "Can't two friends have a conversation?" Peeking over your shoulder at the ongoing interviews, you reply with a straw in your mouth, "We're not even supposed to be friends. You're supposed to be my Dad's client, or from what I heard your crush." You laugh, recalling a question from one of the interviewers. "You're going to get us caught," you whisper quietly into the straw.

"I understand. I can't stand next to my trainer's daughter," Art nods, "Orrr, my opponents, fiancé, but maybe can I stand close to my crush?" Art asks.

 “I think you could, yeah” you nod trying to keep the smile on your face. “Crush it is,” Art says with a smile taking a step forward, yet still maintaining a slight distance. “Did you get the pictures?” Art asks his eyes falling down to your lips. “Yeah, we got them," you confirm with a nod, unable to hide your smile when you notice his lingering gaze. “So we’re in the clear?” his eyes still fixated on your lips, as if he's ready to pounce. "Not yet," you laugh, taking a step back. "We have to wait for them to go to press." Art throws his head back with a strained laugh, and you can't help but watch his Adam's apple bobs up and down. You hadn’t realized until that moment how much you wanted him, it was an all consuming need.

“Just one day," you murmur, unsure if you're speaking to Art or yourself. "Just one day," Art echoes, his eyes now fixed on your neck, his finger brushing your curls away. You watch as he exhales shakily, looking at the fading hickeys on your shoulder, barely hidden by makeup. "Just one day," you remind, removing his hand from your chest. "Just one day," Art repeats, tearing his gaze away to look back up at you. "Your car is here, Mr. Donaldson," a man in black approaches and announces.

“One minute” Art says, gesturing for another second. The man nods in acknowledgment and walks away. “Come with me?” Art asked. “I don’t think that’ll look good.” You alluded to the countless people with cameras surrounding you.

“I couldn’t care less” Art says, shaking his head slightly. “I’d kiss you right here, if you’d let me ” Arts words catch you off guard, and you take a deep breath to try to steady your heart beat. 

“This planning stuff is more for you than me, so you can feel more comfortable. And I’m perfectly fine doing it,’s just …” he trails of his eyes falling back down to your lip. "Alright, I'll come," you rush out, convincing yourself it's to prevent him from kissing you right then. But deep down you knew you just wanted to be near him. You follow closely behind.

Art swiftly enters the car before you lean up, capturing you with a kiss. Before you could even fully step inside, his hand gently grasped your cheek, drawing you closer to his lips as he guided you into the vehicle. Lost in the intensity of the moment, you surrender to the kiss. practically falling inside. The sound of the car door closing behind you brings you back to reality, but the kiss continues to deepen. Suddenly, the driver rolls up the partition, creating a sense of privacy.

A sense of responsibility tugs at you, and you reluctantly break the kiss when Art's hand starts to wander up your bare leg. "We can't," you whisper, "We don't even have a condom," you add, hoping the driver couldn’t overhear.


“You’re right” Art mumbles, sitting back against the seat trying to catch his breath. “ I lost myself for a second” Art laughs, attempting to slow his heartbreak. ”After the game I’ll come to your room” you nod, looking forward trying to gather yourself. “Don’t talk about that, talk about something else” Art says his voice coming out more strained. “Like what?” You turn around and ask. Your eyes landing on the strained erection in his pants. “Oh!” You say, snapping your head back forward. The familiar ache of your core comes back, and you have to bite the inside of your cheek in an attempt to control yourself.


Against your better judgment, you take another peak. His hard shaft still straining against the fabric, you could damn near see the veins on his dick. “Can I?” You ask in a voice barely above a whisper. “Y-yeah” Art replies with a nod agjusting in his seat. You rub your hand back and forth against the Arts bulge while listen as his breath becomes more and more ragged.


Art makes a low moan and that’s enough for you to begin unzipping his pants. Against his better judgment he stops you. “Are you sure?”

“Yeah” you nod breathlessly, fumbling with his pants, pulling them down until his dick springs free. When you begin pumping his shaft, he takes in a sharp breath which causes you to smile. You savor the feeling of his heavy dick in your hand, trying to combat the thoughts of his thick long length inside you. When Art's hips buck into your hand, you fold. “I need you inside of me”, Art opens his mouth to protest and then closes, watching as you bunch up your dress around your waist, pull your panties to the side and straddle him. He grabs your waist with one hand and lines himself up with your entrance with the other. 


You sink onto him with a little too loudly of a moan and Art does the same. Opening his mouth for a sloppy kiss, he doesn’t wait for you to adjust to his size, moving you up and down his dick by your waist. ”shit I-“ Art groans out a wave of pleasure hitting him.
“-I can’t go back to condoms” he moaned, scrunching his brow in pleasure. You laugh and Art quickly retaliates by slamming you hard down on him. You let out a loud moan reflexively using your hand, trying to pull off slightly.

Art moves your hand out of the way, holding you down on him by your waist. “I’m serious”, Art grows leaning forward for another kiss while returning to his previous, rhythm. His words cause you to squeeze around him, and he lets out another low ground throwing his head back, breaking the kiss.



“I’m not going to last much longer” Art says breathlessly. “Just a little longer baby” you coo, leaving kisses on his Adam’s apple down his neck. “You drive me crazy, you know that” you moan feeling his pace fastest. “I do?” you feel Art smile against your cheek. You nod, falling into the crook of his neck enjoying the feeling of him fucking into you. “I want you to cum in me” you whisper, kissing the crook of his neck. “Fuck” Art groans, throwing his head back again. “You’re going to kill me” he states with a strained laugh.


You feel your release building so you decide to taunt him. ”you don’t want to fill me up?” You ask innocently, removing your head from the crook of his shoulder. Look down at him with lust, filled eyes. “Don’t” Art warns, his grip on your waist tightening, “you don’t want to give me a baby?” You huff out trying to keep your voice steady literally feeling him in your stomach. “Fuc- shit shit shitttt” Art moans holding you down onto him filling you up with his cum. His moans echoed through the car, the poor driver. 


“Fuck,” Art states after a minute. “Yea fuck,” you laugh, leaving a kiss on his cheek. “I think I might have a breeding kink”. Art laughs, “Me too,” you say with a smile, leaving another kiss on his head. You feel him twitch inside you, and knowing Art, you knew he would be ready for round two in a minute. You try to get off, but he holds you tighter, keeping you stationary. 

“I want it to stick” he smiles. Oh his smile, you rolled your eyes. You loved him, you knew it now, and you had a feeling he did too. You had been lying to yourself pretending you liked you didn’t care as much as he did. But at that moment you knew you never wanted anyone but him.



You glance out the window to see you were seconds away from the stadium, and then you notice your father standing on the sidewalk. “Oh my god! MY DAD HERE” you say, scurrying out of Art's lap. Art looks out the window, seeing your father standing on the sidewalk expectingly. “Shit” Art huffs, sitting up slightly, pulling up his pants, you take a wet rag next to the champagne and quickly wipe the inside of your leg. You quickly fix yourself before rushing to wipe off any remains of your lipstick off his mouth with your hand.

"Oh no, do I have lipstick on my mouth?" you ask frantically. "Nope, all clear," Art replies with a grin, planting a quick kiss on your lips. "Art," you warn, settling back in your seat. "My bad," Art chuckles, getting ready to exit the car. The car come to stop and your dad Yanks open the door.

"Hurry up, we're late. Mike's already inside," your Dad urges, When he sees you, his expression turns puzzled.

"We were heading in the same direction, so we decided to ride together," you explain before he can say anything. Your dad eyed you both suspiciously. "Alright, let's go," he says, ushering Art into the building. You wanted to say goodbye or wish him luck, and you could sense Art wanted to as well but it would be just too obvious.

You step out of the car, rummaging through your wallet. You tap on the driver's window, and he rolls it down. "Sorry about that," you apologize, handing him a 100 dollar bill before heading into the building.

Once inside the stadium you sit next to your Dad’s team which was now also partially Arts team and somehow also Mikes. Your phone buzzes and look down to see a familiar unsaved number.

“I think your Dad on to us”

“What did he say?” you text back anxiously your fingers moving fast on the keys.

“Nothing really, but i think he knows”

“Did he seem mad?”

“Not really”

“That’s good” you send, letting out a sigh you didn’t know you were holding in.

“Good luck :)” you add before stuffing your phone in your purse . Almost immediately your phone dings and you pull it back out.

“You gave me enough of that in the car ; )” you can’t help but smile at his corniness.

“You’re nasty.”

“Not as nasty as you” you’re about to laugh at his message when you hear a voice directly behind you. “You guys are actually freaks” Patrick says with a laugh jumping over the seat so he was directly next to you. “I applaud you guys for staying consistent at least” Patrick says lightly hitting you on the shoulder. “Can you mind your business” you say rolling your eyes, stuffing your phone in your purse.

“Actually I’ve been minding you two’s business all day with no pay by the way” Patrick adds. “So I think I’ve earned the right to be a little nosy” Patrick says making a pinching gesture.

“So you delivered the pictures?”

“Yes” he responded with a nod

“Thank you” you express your appreciation, turning your attention back to the court.

“Do you think he’s gonna win” Patrick asks leaning in slightly, curious to your answer.

"I hope so, but I don't know. I haven't seen him play in a while," you admit with a weak smile, the reality of the situation sinking in. "I really hope he does win," you mumble.

Author note : GUYS FEEL FREE TO COMMENT I LOVE READING COMMENTS

[positively-mine]

You’re a girl?!

how they find out & they're reaction

tags: slightly ooc, afab, female anatomy, slight favouritism..., grammatical and punctuation errors 😔

a/n: rewatched Saiki k and so I've been procrastinating lately BUT YEA I GET TO WRITE SAIKI K NOW

Series: ❤️ 🧡 🩵 💛 💜 💙 💚

Silver

Sleeping beauty over here didn’t know until one fateful afternoon nap. First situation is when he’s napping in an unconventional area and out of sight. He hears people talking (this school and their problem of talking too loudly 😒) and he overhears this price of information. Secondly, (he's sharp but doesn't show it) and straight forward asks you. Like he has his suspicions but just wanted to make sure in case he makes you uncomfortable.

Does get slightly protective of you. He knows that you can handle yourself just fine but in case you ever get put into a difficult situation he will wake up from his slumber and help you.

Sebek

I want to say that he barges into your room over a range of reasons. Could be because he wants to talk about how amazing malleus is, scolding you for not appreciating said amazingness, or simply just because he wants to spend some quality time with his "friend". Whatever the reason, it causes him to forget about his manners and slams your door wide open. "Human! Listen to w-" and before he can even finish his sentence he's screaming and slamming the door shut.

"Stupid Human!" as one of malleus's guard, its important that he has fast reaction speed to protect his liege. That also became useful when you find your friend half naked and that they're also now a girl (?) the fast reaction speed does not apply to his head at all for this part.

This silly fool will avoid you. please confront him and do something about it because he's not even keeping it discrete. If he sees you down the corridor while hes walking with malleus he may not know it but he shifts his body to hide behind him a bit. Things will get better, just talk to him 😭 Once that's settled he does say things like "ofc as malleus's guard it is my duty to help those weaker around me!" not straight forward with his intentions but it's there at least.

Lilia

i feel like he would know it from the start. It's his old man senses tingling. Many long years of exisiting makes you gain the ability to just suddenly know about such information as well. That or either when hes hanging around trees and overhears you talking about your dilemma with Grim. But doesn’t say anything about it. He’ll wait till when you’re ready to tell him.

In the meantime though, he treats you as per normal. Except those few times where he purposely puts you on the spot to try and get you to tell him faster. He can be a bit impatient and whether you tell him now or later, he will get it out of you eventually.

Malleus

Might be biased with this one but precious pookie pie over here didn't know. He has to have some miracle happen before he finds out. Or Lilia tells him. Like maybe he overhears from the Adeuce duo about your situation or your suspicious behavior around others. He may not know customs outside of his but he can tell when you're feeling awkward. Asks Lilia about it.

Well he's not sure why you're hiding it but in whatever case he will help you. You're his child of man after all. He knows others are intimidated by him and he'll make use of it. Save for a few select others...

[sqgeism]

Can I request a Boothill x Reader? :3 GN!Reader preferably. Reader is a quiet person around most people, ofc happy and talkative with their friends and Boothill. They also dislike touch but when it comes to Boothill theyre always happier to hug and kiss him, hold hands ect.

Bascially Boothill with a GN!S/O who is kinda quiet to others but as soon as they're with Boothill they're much more loving and talkative to him cuz they love him that much, Giving gifts ect

If it's too much don't worry ^^ Thank you for considering

𐙚 𓏵𓏵𓏵 𐙚 𝐜𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐲 | boothill x gender neutral reader

love mail — cuuutie cutie request with a special layout, no less ! reminds me of an old post aaaaalll the way back then, which fyi, give it a read (yes im self promoting things i wrote 2 years ago) <3 here's your req ! much love, thanks for the love mail (〃´o｀)=3

when boothill met you, his sweet, caring, loving s/o for the first time — he would've never guessed that you and him would ever get married in the future. you were always so reserved, kept to yourself.. people thought it meant you were untrusting to others, in reality, you were kind of just antisocial. you liked your own space, and people misunderstood that.

there comes boothill, who also wants to enjoy your space. you found him to be a handful, annoying, and downright insufferable person to be around.. at least for the first few days.

and unfortunately the cheesy little jokes and the 'cowboy life stories' slithered their way into your heart. you found yourself searching for him, and despite his wanted status, he always let himself be found. underneath the moonlight with a shared cigar, you and him exchanged secrets that were between you two and the stars.

boothill tended to notice some smaller habits starting to become of you that he wasn't sure you noticed. typically, you avoided touch from others. whether it be a hug from stelle, or friendly hand holding through markets with robin, you always refused. but sometimes you'd cling to boothill through busy crowds, or you'll help brush away hair from his face, or the rarest of it all — let him do your hair for you. you would sometimes talk about how bored you were with your hair, and so, he'd often times bring little accessories or a brush around with him to mess with it a bit. and you never protested, not once.

there's this added factor that you've started to 'leave your mark' on him. little stickers you left on his body, a chunk of his hair braided, hell — you made him a pretty little necklace that he wears all the time now. boothill had his suspicions that you were into him, and he was PRAYING he was right cause aeons know how long he's liked YOU.

when you eventually confessed your feelings, via playing a song that basically said 'i like you' through your shared earphones and hoping he'd understand (he got it eventually), he figured you'd stay the same. subtle, but still caring.. which was really cute. but aeons, his heart burst when you became GENUINELY clingy, like bless his mechanical heart for not overheating cause he was not used to this change.

head on his shoulder always, hands intertwined is a MUST, playing with his hair and poking at his cheek.. you just loved being around him, and he was RELISHING in this. the slowburn game worked cause look at him now; the most clung onto man on earth. and he is JUMPING FOR JOY!!

he loves it when you get clingy, his favorite is when you rest ontop of him and demand attention. forehead kisses, face squishes, he's doing it all. and he loves the fact you love it, his personal stress ball.

but honestly, he's just happy you've gotten out of your shell. sure, you're still a little reserved around others, but when hes got his arm around your waist while you're with friends, he can see the tiniest spark of more confidence. a bit more bubbly fun in that stoic attitude of yours.

and he likes biting you. you give him cuteness aggression, take what you will with that.

[weluvwbb]

This is my request but can you do Caitlin x reader. Basically they're both on the same team when suddenly the reader gets injured(broken fingers) but she continues playing. Then, all the teammates take a break for awhile and Caitlin immediately notices that her gf is injured.

ofc! thanks for the rec !

Hidden Hurt

the gym was filled with energy as caitlin and the team prepared for their upcoming game. you, a talented player on the same team, were focused on your dribbling as you were called by coach to do a 1v1 with caitlin.

as soon as the game started caitlin went to drive for the basket for a layup up but you being just as quick ran behind caitlin ready to block the shot but while block you finger smashed against the backboard bending it in a weird angle.

you tried to block out the sharp pain in your finger, a searing pain running through your hand you clenched your teeth and continued on, not wanting to let anyone down.

caitlin noticed the slight wince that crossed your face every time you caught the ball, but she didn't think much of it at first. It wasn't until she saw you subtly favoring your hand during drills that her suspicion grew.

during a break in practice, caitlin pulled you aside, concern evident in her eyes. "babe, are you okay? you look like your in pain."

you forced a smile, trying to play it off. "I'm fine, just a little sore. I'll be ready for the game."

caitlin narrowed her eyes, studying you closely. "let me see your hand."

you hesitated, but the look of worry in caitlin's eyes made you relent. Slowly, you unfurled your hand to reveal the swollen and bruised finger, a clear sign of injury.

caitlin's eyes widened in realization. "you broke your finger, didn't you?"

you nodded sheepishly, avoiding her gaze. "I didn't want to sit out of the game. I thought I could tough it out."

caitlin's expression softened as she gently took your hand in hers. "you don't have to hide your pain from me, you know. we're a team, on and off the court."

a mix of relief and guilt flooded through you as you met caitlin's understanding gaze. "I'm sorry, I just didn't want to disappoint anyone."

caitlin shook her head, a small smile playing on her lips. "you could never disappoint me, especially not for wanting to play through the pain. but next time, let me help you, okay?"

you nodded, grateful for her understanding. As the game approached, caitlin made sure you were properly taken care of, ensuring that you could still contribute to the team without aggravating your injury.

and as you stepped onto the court, with caitlin by your side, you knew that no matter what obstacles came your way, you had a girlfriend and teammate who would always have your back.

second post done :)

[mothhball]

HELLO?

I appreciate your writings sm And these are not just words for starting requests, like I really like them. I would like to request. Jonathan crane x reader when the reader comforts him after whatever it's gonna be... So the drink will contain Gin+Creme de cacao+grapefruit juise,lime juice+pickles Hope I understood the requesting rules correctly so beforehand thank you(I rly love the idea but my cocktail is crazy 💥💥)

Gentle Patience

Nolanverse!Scarecrow x Reader

summary headcanons + physical hurt/comfort + cuddles + neck kisses + ❛ I’m sorry, I’m just—I’m just really tired. ❜

warnings stubborn, injured Jon, mentions of his past of being bullied (comic canon)

notes thank you so much for ordering and thank you even more for your lovely words <3 first time writing headcanons aaaa

! MINORS DNI !

event masterlist • main masterlist • taglist • kofi word count: n/a

God, he’s just like an injured stray cat

Expect him to try and avoid you at first, even if you live together.

And he’s surprisingly sneaky, even with a cracked rib and a limp in his step

Growing up as little bullied Jon Crane meant that he had to learn how to take care of himself FAST, and sadly, he got used to patching up wounds all by himself and toughing out the pain

Turns out his practice at sewing his masks comes in handy when he’s sewing up himself

An injured Jonathan will come home late on purpose, trying to make sure you’re asleep so you can’t fuss over him

It never works

Whenever you get the slightest suspicions that he’s out there, getting his ass handed to him, you stay up for him until he gets back

He’ll complain about it (ofc he does)

But while he’s still trying to undress and drag himself into bed, you’re already pulling him into the bathroom. His attempts to dissuade you, obviously, but it’s not working. And when he finally snaps and your grip on him falters, he feels even worse.

“I’m sorry, I’m just—I’m just really tired.” “Tired or not, we’ll need to get you fixed up…”

His injuries always look worse in the light, and he hates the brief flicker of pity in your eyes when you look at him, but he knows it’s not because you find him pathetic.

He’ll grumble and complain while you check him out, trying to play it off like you’re the crazy one for insisting to take care of him for once.

Especially at the beginning of your relationship, he’s not used to physical affection or tender touches. He’s not even used to a kind word, so he’ll be a little overwhelmed. Not that he’d tell you, of course.

But he’ll warm up, and you’ll notice. His shoulders relax, he’ll lean into your touch, and his inner monolog of beating himself up stops for a moment.

Where he once frowned and squirmed away, he now sighs contentedly as you pepper his skin with kisses, making sure to be gentle with his scrapes and bruises.

The neck kisses are his secret favorites.

For a man who seems so grand and cocky when he’s in his element, he sometimes gets scared that you’ll see in him the little boy he used to be. A victim of cruelty who couldn’t defend himself. Like he still sees himself sometimes.

It’s a little tricky to balance the urge to reassure him and the necessity to give him his space, but if he allows you to hold him afterwards, you know you’ve got the hang of it.

It’s one of those quiet moments, then. Moments when he’s exhausted and hurt, and you’re both waiting for the pain meds to properly kick in. Moments when he sinks into your arms and willingly lets himself be the little spoon.

And you know that even before he says it, he’s thankful to have you by his side.

[lo1k-diamonds]

Unique 💜 Part 2 - Chapter 2

“Seeing you again just reminds me of it all even more.”

PAIRING: idol!Namjoon x OFC

SUMMARY: It's a year later when Angie decides to visit Hyejin, both women looking to get away from their problems. But a certain group is just pausing their tour, and old feelings are rekindled when their paths cross.

WORD COUNT:  14.5 k

GENRE: old lovers to ?

RATING: R (explicit)

WARNINGS: alcohol (not drunk), teasing, explicit smut, protected sex, oral (both), 69, multiple orgasms, dirty talking, body worship, nipple play, edging, Dom OC if you flinch, Namjoon puts her hand around his neck, ...

A.N. I'm uploading Part 2 every day as I edit it 💜 They reunite in this one, and things get steamy 🔥 (thank you for the new look, @eerieedits)

Masterlist | Masterpost | AO3 | Wattpad | < Previous Part | Next Part >

“They’re not picking up the phone.” Hyejin huffed, putting her phone down. 

“You know that’s okay,” Yoongi commented quietly, driving them carefully.

She raked her fingers through her hair and tried calming down. “I know, but they should know people other than reporters might need to reach them!”

She bit her lip, instantly regretting raising her voice, and he nodded. “Is there someone else you can call?”

She instantly brightened up. “Yeah, wait.”

She dialed the personal phone number of her parents' live-in housekeeper. The older lady instantly picked up, and Hyejin was comforted by talking to her and learning that her parents were at home and that she was more than welcome to come by.

“They’ll appreciate you being here, miss.”

Hyejin suddenly pointed with her free hand. “No, no, you should go straight ahead.”

“It’s to avoid traffic,” Yoongi replied softly while turning left. Hyejin frowned; how did he know the way to her parents by heart?

But she dismissed it and finished the conversation over the phone.

“Thank you,” she said after a while of silence. “For doing this. I know I’d be freaking out way more if I was driving and trying to contact them at the same time.”

“I’m glad to do it.”

She pursed her lips and glanced outside, with the lights passing them by. “Did you know Nomin was supposed to meet us for dinner?”

A part of her didn’t want to touch on the subject of her husband right now, but the other was curious. But Yoongi was a master at not showing any emotions, so she wasn’t surprised that not even a blink was out of place. “He didn’t mention it.”

She scoffed. “Of course, he didn’t.” To hear something that confirmed her suspicions only increased her bitterness. Yoongi’s silence didn’t help. “Do you agree with him?”

He seemed absolutely focused on the road. “With what?”

“With me overreacting. With inspiration or whatever it is having the number one spot in a producer’s life.” She didn’t hide the pain in her voice.

Yoongi stopped at a light and finally glanced at her. Her eyes were watery, and her expression was a mask that hid a deep hurt. It pained him to see it.

“He was irresponsible,” he finally said, restarting the drive once the light was green.

Somehow, his reply pierced her heart more. “But it’s okay because he was inspired?”

“No.”

“It’s okay to leave me hanging and ignore my calls and our anniversary and anything related to our relationship because fucking inspiration strikes?”

“I didn’t say that.”

“But you didn’t say it was wrong either.” She would have sneered if those words hadn’t left a sour trace in her mouth. “Because you agree with him, don’t you?”

“It’s not my place.”

“You’re a producer too!”

“Still not my place.”

“Just fucking say it to my face instead of—”

“I just did, Hyejin.” His voice raised the slightest, firmly, to get her to stop.

“Why?” Suddenly, she felt eighteen again, staring at him in utter loss. She always had trouble expressing herself with him because her heart would shake, her cheeks would flush, and her hands would tremble. But she was ten years older now. “Why is it not your place? Aren’t you in an exclusive position to understand what being a producer requires?”

He sighed. “Hyejin—”

“Aren’t you one of my oldest friends? Who knows me the best?”

Her voice trembled with tears, and she looked away to hide them. She was lost, and it finally caught up with her. She sniffled and tried to regain control over her emotions, but his hand darted to hers and grabbed it, and it was like hearing that she didn’t have to.

She wasn’t paying attention, but when the car entered a driveway, she instantly recognized the house she had spent half of her life in. She rushed to click open the seat belt and get out of the car, but he was quicker. He pulled on the strap for more space and leaned forward to hug her. His hand on her head was soothing, and she instantly grimaced a cry and moved to hide in his neck, wishing she could just disappear.

He petted her head silently and stayed still with her in his arms, listening to her cry and regain her strength little by little.

Until she pulled away, cleaning her tears. “You didn’t answer.”

He just looked at her, brushing her hair behind her ear as she tried to look as presentable as possible.

She succeeded, though her eyes were still glistening. He showed no signs of meaning to say anything else; he was just looking at her.

“Tell me what you truly think.”

His lips twitched ever so slightly, but she noticed. They were so close to each other that she almost couldn’t make out his expression, but they were close enough that they could see everything.

“I… really… don’t think it’s my place.”

She frowned. “Why? Namjoon would tell me his opinion, anyone else would.”

“You’re right, anyone else would.”

“But not you.”

“No… not me.”

“Why?!” She smacked his chest exactly where her hands were resting, and only then did she realize his heart was racing under her touch. “Since when do you keep your thoughts to yourself?”

He chuckled. “I always have when it comes to you.”

She frowned. “Well, it’s me asking. So just tell me. I’m telling you to tell me,” she insisted, and he shook his head. “I want to hear what you think. What would you have done differently? What would you have done if you were me? What would you have done if you were in Nomin's shoes?”

“I would have done it all differently.” Her heart jumped, and she noticed the rhythm was similar to his. Yet he moved away and sat back in the driver’s seat. “I don’t know anything more than that. I don’t dare to think about being in his shoes.”

Her eyes widened, but instantly, he opened the door and got out of the car. She hurried out, too, and found him with his hand extended towards her. 

She took it. “Why? Why don’t you dare—”

“None of that matters right now,” he interrupted, brushing her hair out of her face again. She was so confused, but he kept trying to get her attention. “Your family needs you, and you’ll need to be strong for them.”

She sucked in a breath and then nodded; she knew he was right.

“Have you thought about what to do if your brother is there?”

“You mean besides kicking him in the balls?”

He contained a chuckle. “Yes, besides that.”

“He’ll get a piece of my mind, but he’s still my brother. Whatever gets my mom and dad through this.”

He nodded approvingly. “Then you got this. Call me if you need anything.”

“Wait, what do you mean?” She squeezed his hand with a frown. “You should come inside.”

“This is a difficult time, it’s rude of me to impose.”

“What the heck are you saying, Yoongi? You’re family!”

He shook his head. “It’s not my place.” Her eyes widened unbelievably, and he said, “Don’t argue with me; just get inside.”

He guided her by the hand to walk ahead, then let go, and she turned back. “I’ll go, but we’re going to talk about this. Stay right there, I’ll be right back.”

She pointed at him to stay put, and he heaved a deep breath but gave her a nod so that she’d finally get inside the house. He looked around and sighed, kicking the pebbles on the floor. 

What the hell was he supposed to say? He’d feel like trash if he somehow used their friendship to break up her marriage. Even if what he thought was what everybody else thought, he was the only one who was biased. Who didn’t look at her like a baby sister. No, he never had and he never would. He didn’t want her to hurt, he wanted her to be happy, to have the world, and to smile forever. But that happiness didn’t include him, and he didn’t want to throw that on her shoulders on top of everything else.

He turned back when he heard the front door open again and saw her running to him. His eyes widened when he figured she wasn’t stopping and he opened his arms when he saw she opened hers, too. She jumped into his arms and held him firmly, so much so he teared up. Her familiar scent permeated his nose and broke goosebumps all over his skin. God, he missed when he could just hug her like that.

“I asked my father’s driver to get you back,” she whispered into his ear. His instinct was to move away; this wasn’t just a hug to him, and he couldn’t risk not separating things—

Her fingers curled around the hair at the nape of his neck to embrace him firmly and tell him without words that it was okay to stay hidden in her neck just like he was now.

“Thank you for taking care of me,” she whispered, squeezing him closer. “I’ve missed you.”

He closed his eyes and tried not to waver on his feet. She couldn’t have possibly missed him more than he had missed her.

She pulled away, but he wasn’t ready for her smile. “And we’re talking about this. I’m not forgetting about it. You seem to have forgotten where your place is, and I hate it.”

She reached one hand on his shoulder and another to his cheek and his breath caught. He froze, and she kissed him on the cheek, pressing her lips and nuzzling his skin before pulling away.

Only his eyes moved to follow her movements, and she smiled as a car drove out of the garage by their side. “Maybe that will remind you. I’ll see you soon.”

She waved goodbye, and he finally released a breath. His shock dissipated along with the butterflies in his stomach, and he sighed and got inside the car. Friends. She was just being friendly.

Angie got into the back row of the car ahead of Namjoon and widened her eyes at the space. Only two individual seats in the back made up that much space covered in beige leather. There were curtains on the windows and a carpet on the floor, and as she sat, she stretched her legs — that was how far away the driver’s seat was. She glanced at Namjoon, who was just getting comfortable on the other seat and mimicked him by putting the seat belt on.

He said something to the driver that she didn’t understand and she pressed her lips quietly. Traveling in such a spacious car with curtains hiding the world outside was weird. It made it so that she could only see Kim Namjoon.

“So… When did you arrive?”

“Just a few hours ago.”

“Oh, wow. Hyejin knew you were coming?”

“Yeah, I booked the trip like two months ago. Maybe more.”

“Ah.” He looked down and brushed his hands over his legs. “Is it a special occasion or…?”

“No, not like last time, just—” She thought twice about it; she didn’t want to bother him with her problems. “Just needed the change in scenery.”

“Ahh… I bet Hyejin planned nice things for you to do together.”

She hummed. “I guess there are pajama parties and a day or two at a spa on the planning.”

“Woah, that sounds amazing. " He sounded envious, and she glanced at him with a hint of skepticism. Namjoon was always soft-spoken, not one to make ripples or overreact to anything. The way he sounded excited over light conversation was strange.

“Is this weird?” she asked, and his eyes widened.

“What?”

“Meeting me again.”

“No! No, it isn’t, I promise!” He instantly shook his hands in the air, looking almost spooked. “Why, is it to you?”

“No, not to me. I always wondered how you were doing. But the way you’re…” She thought again about how to phrase it while he took her musing brown eyes. “Superficially making conversation is… a bit off-putting.”

He looked away with a smile, and she tilted her head the slightest, intrigued.

“I guess I don’t know how to act,” he revealed, spreading his legs more comfortably. Leaning his head on the headrest, he faced her. “I am excited, but I don’t know what to expect, so I default to what I know best.”

“A mask of niceties?”

He smiled again. “I thought I was always nice.”

“You are,” she agreed with a nod. “But never from behind a mask. At least not with me.”

He grinned and acquiesced, “You’re right. No more mask, no need for one.” His expression sobered while his dark eyes stayed on her, observing and communicating without sound. “You look good. How have you been?”

She smirked. “That’s not a conversation for a twenty-minute car drive.”

“Well, depending on your schedule with Hyejin, maybe we could find more than a twenty-minute car drive.”

She instantly felt tension down her neck at the memories of being alone with him, but she shouldn’t imply anything from his words.

“I had planned to have alone time, but… I think this calls for an exception.”

He smiled and nodded. “Alone time? Anything in particular you want to do?”

She shrugged and told him she was thinking about touristing. She needed to see different things, so she thought about strolling, eating well, and visiting museums. He was instantly excited, suggesting so many different places for her to see that she couldn’t possibly keep track. She mentioned her difficulties with the language, and he quickly eased her by saying that in tourist places, things would often have a translation, like at the airport.

“But just in case, you should install this one app— Wait, let me check the name,” he said, getting his phone out.

He helped her install and configure an app to automatically translate things with her camera, and that was when the car stopped. She peeked through the curtain and nodded; she recognized the lobby and the valets instantly going around the car to figure out what was happening.

“Thank you for dropping me off. I didn’t have time to ask you how you were, but maybe we’ll have time for that in the future.” His eyes were dark, but she only gave him a small smile. “I won’t presume you’re free to come up with me. Or interested.”

He almost sighed. “I’m the one who didn’t want to assume. But I am. Interested and free.”

Their tones were lowering with each sentence as if they were exchanging secrets. “Have you had dinner already?”

He shook his head. “And even if I had.”

She recognized that glim in his eyes and smiled. “Then you could feed me and service me properly. How sad.” She sulked. “Well, then, see you next time—”

“Wait—”

She pretended to leave but quickly grabbed the hand he was reaching out to stop her. “I’m joking. I’d love it if you had dinner with me.”

His eyes focused on her, and she just gave him a light smile — she had missed those eyes. Then he squeezed her hand, and she noticed she was still grabbing it. She loosened her grip, and he let it slide.

He turned to the driver to say something while fumbling around in the car seat’s pockets for something. The driver answered, seemingly surprised, and Namjoon answered with something that resembled a ‘No worries.’ 

Finally, he found a facemask and pulled his gray hoodie to cover his head. “Let’s go.”

He opened the car door, and she hurried after him, a bit surprised by the instant abundance of light across the hotel’s entrance.

Namjoon waved graciously for her to go ahead and the car drove away. She was a bit confused, as it was normal when information was missing, but she walked into the hotel after searching for her keycard.

She turned to Namjoon. “Would you rather see if they still have tables available or—?”

“Straight up if you don’t mind,” he whispered half guiding her to where he knew the elevator lobby was. 

Once there, she pressed the up button and checked her card, showing it to him as well. He nodded and, once inside the elevator, pressed the right floor. He stood away from her, which caused her to frown just the slightest. Suddenly, everything felt so impersonal, and it had never been like that before. One year before, it felt like they were old lovers just having a sweet weekend together. Now, she could understand if things were different, but—

Maybe she had misinterpreted his meaning before.

They both got out and walked the corridor to her room. She stepped inside ahead of him and noticed her luggage in the corner, the open closet, the expansive room with a king-size bed with white sheets, a table with a welcoming basket, the TV on the wall, the minifridge, and the spacious bathroom.

When she returned to the main room, she saw him removing his mask and pulling the hoodie off.

“I hope you don’t mind if we order in. It’s always complicated at restaurants, and this is a bit impulsive, so I’d prefer not to risk it.”

“No, it’s okay.” She quickly shrugged, getting her things on a rack. “I can’t imagine how it must be every time you want to have a nice meal out with a friend.”

He glanced at her and then down. “If I’m with a big group, I don’t usually care. But in this case, it’s just us. It’s asking for trouble.”

Her eyebrows jumped. “Oh.” Suddenly she was looking at him with a different understanding. “Right, you— I’m sorry, it’s easy to forget that you’re… famous and easily recognizable.”

He smiled. “That’s okay. I like it that you don’t think about that.” She was searching around for something, and he glanced at the bed before looking away. “That you don’t remember that when you look at me.”

She finally found what she wanted with a smile. “Ah! The menu and order in! Oh, in Korean, of course. Even with the English translation, how am I supposed to understand what it means?”

He neared her. “You have me for that.”

She glanced out of the corner of her eye. “Do I? Perhaps I do, for now. Just in case, you’ll have to explain it all to me.”

He nodded with a chuckle and sat down on the bed. She noticed then his shoes were already off, so she passed him the menu and went to the entrance again to take off her sneakers.

He was focused on the choices when she jumped on the bed behind him and crawled to get to his side.

“To be clear, I never saw that side of you,” she said, sitting beside him comfortably. He looked at her. “Not that it would matter even if I did, but still. That’s why I don’t think about it. Let me know if there’s anything I should do differently or—”

“Nothing, there’s nothing you should do differently,” he instantly assured, gripping the menu. He was all right with anything except that.

“Okay, then.” She smiled before taping the menu for him to start explaining. “Though I must say, I don’t think I could ever look at you any other way but normal. I mean, I’ve seen you naked.”

She shrugged, and he pressed his lips and closed his eyes. His cheeks instantly flushed as she laughed at his embarrassment.

“You’re right,” he said, lightheaded with her laugh. “You and I are like that, right?”

“Absolutely.” She grinned. “Now explain it to me so we can choose what to eat.”

It took many tries between laughter for them to go through the whole menu and drink choices before they were ready to order. By then, she had already taken a coke from the mini-fridge.

“You’re taking too long,” she had complained.

“It’s not my fault, there’s so much that’s good… Oh, how about tonkatsu? You liked it last time.”

“Is that the breaded pork?” She sat beside him again, and he nodded. “Hell yeah, I loved it.”

“Okay. Then the kkorijjim for me.”

“Oh, is that the sweet oxtail dish?” He nodded. “Woah, I liked that too.”

“We can switch the order next time.”

He handed her the folded menu for her to order, and her eyes were fixed on his. She could swear he was attempting to tease her, but he had a good poker face. Again, she wondered if she had misunderstood the little signs between them, but finally, she smiled and took the menu. She never intended to meet him again or to sleep with him, for that matter. She wouldn’t complain if it happened again, heck no, but it didn’t matter either way. He was captivating to talk to, and that was enough.

She resorted to saying the number of they wanted to order instead of the names, earning a cheeky chuckle from Namjoon, which earned him a mock kick to the shin. 

When she was done, she put the phone back. “Finally, can’t wait. Now, if you don’t mind, I traveled today so I’d like to freshen up a bit before food.”

“Oh.” He was surprised and instantly stood up. “Do you want me to leave while you get comfortable?”

“No!” She was already opening her bag to get another set of clothes; would they still go out? Putting pajamas on was probably weird, right? “Of course not, you’re free to stay.”

She was busy getting her essentials out so she didn’t see him getting flustered. “No, but, of course, your privacy is important. You probably want to relax—”

“I am.” She grabbed everything in her arms and finally faced him. “I’m relaxed with you here, I see no reason for you to leave.” He still looked stiff, so she huffed. “You said it wasn’t weird.”

She raised a meaningful eyebrow, and he immediately felt awkward. “Ah, am I—? But I didn’t mean to.”

“Remember how we were a year ago? In a hotel room exactly like this one just doing our thing?” He nodded quietly. “In doubt, revert to those memories. Do whatever you feel like, Namjoon.”

She passed him to the bathroom and closed the door, and he released a big sigh. Doing whatever he wanted? Reverting to one year back? Those memories felt like a dream, and they could have been if she wasn’t right there again, messing with him from every angle.

He opened the minifridge and took a coke too before sitting at the table with a huge sigh. He couldn’t believe he was seeing her again, let alone that he was in a hotel room with her again. They had lived like they would never see each other again, and that was how that chapter happened. He cared for her during that time, knowing it was limited, unique, and perfect. Nothing was ever perfect in life, so he knew the nature of that encounter made it seem like it, but he didn’t mind. He didn’t care because it allowed him a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, a short moment of his life in which he was happy, fulfilled, enriched, and in love.

In love with their time and place and interaction, but it was limited, he reminded himself. There was no heartbreak because of that agreement. Seeing her again was not part of the deal, but who was he kidding? That chance was too sweet to miss, too tempting to refuse. She looked good, smiled the same way, had the same perfume, and her eyes—

Never from behind a mask. At least not with me.

He rubbed his face; he needed a mask because he couldn’t deal with the excitement, the impulse, the vertigo. No matter how much he wanted to experience it again, he knew he could get hurt and hurt her too. He pondered about it; a year later, the probability of getting hurt didn’t bother him. Even if his heart suffered, that was life. He feared regret way more than taking chances. But hurting her was something else, and there were things he knew he couldn’t give.

So he stayed seated instead of joining her shower as he wished. She had mentioned seeing him naked, and he sighed at the memory of her dainty curves pacing around the room. That and her laughter came quickly to mind and made him smile. He didn’t even know how she felt about it a year later, only that she wanted him to act the same. He was excited about the possibility of talking about it, about everything. If she wanted to, he wanted to. Bad.

He got on his phone and scrolled around until he noticed her humming. She was no longer showering, so he could hear it and smile.

When she got out, he teased her about it. “Still a good singer, I hear.”

She laughed. “Yeah, right? You still work in the music industry, don't you? Maybe we can come to an arrangement.”

She was organizing her clothes, and he just chuckled. “I’m sure we could if you wanted to.”

She laughed a bit out of breath. “Yeah, right. I know your standards are higher than this.”

She turned away from him with a smile, ready to choose something else to drink from the minifridge, when he said, “I know how beautifully you can sing if you’re played right. There’s no higher standard than that.”

She grabbed a small bottle of Spritz and sat across from him, her lips curved. “That’s fair. But we’re not in a hurry, are we?”

“That depends…”

“On what?” She poured her drink and put the bottle away.

“How long are you staying?”

“A week.”

His jaw dropped. “A week?” 

She smiled. “So are we in a hurry?”

“No. One week is much better than last time.”

She chuckled. “Would we be in a hurry if it was less time?”

“No, not really.”

She smiled and took a sip of her drink. “Just so we’re clear, I’m taking free and interested to heart.”

He grinned. “You should. I’m doing the same, then, with your suggestion to revert to one year ago and do what I want.”

Her smile was bright, and he had missed it. “Go ahead.” She drank a bit more and smiled. “I can’t wait, but that still doesn’t mean we’re in a hurry, right?”

“No, it doesn’t.”

He drank more of his coke and seemed at ease, too, so she let those questions go. They both knew where things were going and would enjoy the tension until it happened.

When someone knocked on the door, she promptly let room service in. When she followed the waiter with a car on wheels back in, she was surprised to see Namjoon nowhere to be found. The bathroom door was closed, though, so she just shrugged and observed, as the table was perfectly set with everything.

She bowed and thanked the employee on their way out, and only then did Namjoon come out.

Her eyebrows twitched, and he smiled sheepishly. “Sorry.”

She shrugged, and they were free to sit at the table and dig in. “Now I can finally ask you: how are you? How have you been?”

He smiled. “Finally, yes. Well, I’m exhausted but good. We were touring during this last year, and now we’re back home for a month for a break.”

“Touring where?”

“Asia.”

“If you tour the East Coast, don’t forget to let me know. Or, well, let Hyejin know so she can tell me.”

He nodded as he ate quietly. They never exchanged phone numbers on purpose, but he could do that. 

He cleared his throat. “Which is why I was so surprised to see you, actually.” She raised her eyebrows, and he clarified, “Hyejin never told me you were visiting.”

She shrugged. “I didn’t ask her to keep it a secret. I suppose since things have been difficult for her, including the anniversary fiasco and you being on tour, it probably didn’t occur to her to tell you.”

“Probably,” he agreed, then sighed. “Things have been hard for her, definitely. And we haven’t been here to help her like we should.”

“Hey, neither have I. But she knows we're here for her, no matter what. She could run away to me just like I’ve done to her.”

“You’re running away?” His forehead creased in a mix of surprise and skepticism.

“It’s hyperbole.”

“We have more than twenty minutes.”

She grinned. “We do, right? I guess I just don’t want to sour the mood with my problems.”

“You don’t have to talk about it, but nothing would be soured. If it bothers you, then I’d like to hear it.”

She stayed quiet for a while just looking at him, then acquiesced, “I feel like I’m at a crossroads. I like teaching, I like feeling like what I do has an impact, but lately… I don’t know. I don’t feel accomplished, which is ridiculous. I’m a young professor, it doesn’t get much better than this.”

“By whose standards? Who cares what matters to other people? Your life is your story to tell, you should focus on yourself and your own opinion.”

Her chin trembled, but she smiled wholeheartedly. “Of course, I should. Sucks when I don’t know what I want to do though.”

“Maybe you don’t know yet, but it will become clearer in the future. Maybe all you need is rest and a change in scenery.”

“You know I thought the exact same thing?” She jokingly pretended to be surprised but instantly smiled along with him. “Yeah, I’m hoping that rest does something for me. We just got a major publication in Nature, and again, it’s amazing, but where do I go from there?”

“In Nature? That’s a big shot magazine or—”

“Journal, yes. Scientific journal. Only the most prestigious. Everyone does whatever it takes to get published there. Only the tip of the spear in scientific research achieves this.”

“Right.”

“Think like an Oscar or a Grammy or a Nobel Prize.”

“Really? Nobel Prize?”

“No, that’s probably an exaggeration,” she agreed with a chuckle.

“And how did you do it?”

“We finally validated a model that shows that two-dimensional quantum condensates are experimentally accessible, meaning that research into superfluids can get to the next stage.”

He nodded. “Superfluid is the helium thing, right?”

“Yes, we transform helium into superfluid.”

He chuckled. “You know, I’ll never understand any of it, but I always remember that you work with helium. Every time it comes up, my first thought is, ‘Angie would know all about it.’”

She smirked and shook her head. “Although my work is so much more than just helium, I totally get you.” He pouted, but she dismissed it playfully. “I can’t imagine that helium comes up frequently in a conversation.”

He humed. “Yeah, that’s true.”

“So I guess you never had to think that a lot.”

He raised his eyebrows. “Are you trying to imply that’s the only thing I remember about you?” She was ready to shake her head, but he continued, “You underestimate me, huh? I paid attention.”

“Yeah? Tell me three things that you remember about me.”

“Three? Only three? Easy.” He put the chopsticks down to focus on the task at hand. She opened the minifridge and showed him a soju bottle. “Yes, please. I’m older than you, so let me.”

She passed it to him with a smile before sitting back down. “Three, Mr. Kim Namjoon.”

“Yes, I got it. Well, one is the helium, of course.” She waited for him to pour the drink with a sly smile. “Then I always think about your color ideas.”

“Color ideas?”

“Yeah.” He poured two glasses and clinked his with hers before drinking. “The perceptions of color through different lenses and air compositions and densities, which would mean that everything we perceive in normal conditions would be something else entirely in different conditions. Like if we were in alternate universes or dimensions.”

Her cheeks warmed up. “You remember me rambling about that?”

“Of course I do. I remember it every time I go into a museum and I check the light schemes over a piece or a room. Even at my own home. It makes me happy and hopeful that something more will always be discovered. Like there’s a perpetual mystery, even if I always use my own two eyes.”

She was no longer smiling but staring at him with an empty glass of soju and pink cheeks.

“What?” he asked, taking a bite of meat. “Oh, you want more?”

He looked at her empty glass, and she quickly put it down. “No. And the third thing?”

“Your love for teaching. The meaning you gave it and that it gave you. I admire that about you, so much.”

“Why?”

“Because for all that I’m worth, and everything I’ve done, I am not a great teacher.”

“I find that hard to believe.”

“It’s true. I try, but the process… it’s different for everyone.”

“It’s about understanding other perspectives and creating something transposable across them.”

He smiled. “Maybe that sounds easy to you, but not to me.”

“Maybe making music is harder.”

“Hmm, harder than quantum physics?” He grimaced before smiling again. “No way. Just… it’s a feeling, and even if I explain my process, it doesn’t mean the outcome will be the same.”

“Because it’s not an exact science,” she countered, a bit in disbelief. “If music is a feeling, then there are as many ways of feeling it as there are people. And if each person is unique, then no wonder you can’t have the same outcome. That doesn’t make you a bad teacher. If you give them tools, then you have to wait for them to do the rest.”

He smiled, feeling some type of way he had missed. “You’re very wise.”

She snorted. “Please. I teach equations, the outcome is set. I teach very difficult and complex equations and models outside of the conceptual universe we live in.”

“Are you selling yourself short right now? How are students supposed to understand all that without a good teacher?”

She teared up and smiled. “Thank you.” He smiled too. “I'm happy. It's still very easy to talk to you.”

His genuine smile showed his dimples. “I’m happy, too.”

They had finished dinner and the bottle of soju.

“Should we order a bottle of something? To drink?”

He pressed his lips. “I thought you wouldn’t want us to get drunk.”

“We don’t have to drink the whole thing.” She shrugged. “I don’t want to get drunk, I want to have a good drink with you. We said we’d do that if we ever saw each other again.”

He nodded; he remembered that well. “I always pictured us at a bar,” he confessed. “Not like a club, but a nice, quiet, elegant bar where we could chat and catch up.”

“The bar downstairs is nice…” her voice trailed off, and he pursed his lips. “But I didn’t think you’d want to risk it,” she finished, and he nodded. “So come on, do me the favor of choosing a bottle for us to chat and catch up over?”

She got up and went to the bathroom, and he sighed, grabbing the list to check the possibilities. It was definitely not a favor; he wanted her to have only the best.

When she came back, he had made a choice. “The Yamazaki single malt. It’s Japanese whisky aged 18 years. I heard it’s a good one.”

She saw all the zeroes, but it didn’t really translate to anything to her because it was in Korean Wan. “Alright, sounds good. I’ll ask for it.”

He smiled and let her order. He would tell Hyejin that he would pay for dinner and the drinks, so he wasn’t worried about the cost. That was his treat to her.

She put the phone down. “They’re also sending someone to collect the food. Just so you know.”

He resented her colder tone and lowered his eyes. “Thanks. You know it’s just to avoid trouble.”

“I know.”

“It has nothing to do with you or wanting to be with you.” 

Her lips twitched, and she nodded. “I believe you. I like to believe that after what we’ve discussed and experienced, you never held back from doing what you wanted, even if you must be careful about it.”

He pursed his lips and looked down again. “I wanted to. I mean, that’s my mentality, yes. I’m confident.”

“Is there a but coming?”

“But… I was on tour.” He shrugged, and her blank stare told him she didn’t understand. “Touring is absolutely exhausting.”

“So?”

“So? No mental, physical, or emotional space to remotely think about anything else.”

“Ah,” she breathed, frowning slightly. “I see. That makes sense.”

He couldn’t guess what she was thinking, but her expression made him uneasy. He laughed it off. “You look disappointed.”

Her eyelashes fluttered in surprise. “Disappointed? No, why?” He shrugged, and she sat on the bed. “Life gets in the way, and people are complicated.”

He agreed, and although it didn’t feel like that was why she was frowning moments ago, he let it go. “Dating isn’t usually on my to-do list anyway.”

“I can imagine.”

“Did you get back to dating?” He didn’t feel weird asking since he had spoken about himself first. “You were kind of annoyed about it a year ago.”

“I tried… but it didn’t work.” She shrugged. She thought about what happened and decided to say it anyway, “I went on a few dates and then realized I was searching for you. I was holding everyone to your standard, I mean,” she clarified when his eyebrows jumped. “And it’s not by any means a bad standard to have, it’s just… not how it works. So I stopped.”

“I… I don’t know what to say.”

“You don’t have to say anything. You remember, my standards were always high. And you meet them, that’s all.”

“Is me being here right now… a bad thing?”

She arched an eyebrow. “Bad? How so?”

“I don’t know. I don’t want to hurt you or—”

“Wait wait wait, you’re not hurting me. You kind of give me hope that my standards aren’t unattainable, and I love that. Did I weird you out? I didn't mean—”

“No, no, it’s not that. I just… I’m wary of hurting you by just doing this without thinking. There are always consequences.”

“Sure, the consequence for me is that I know what I want, and I’ll wait for it. You’re here now, and we both agree on what this means, so I didn’t think there was a problem.”

“There isn’t.”

“That’s good. If you exist, then someone else might, too. They’ll never be you but…” She was lost in thought for a second before she felt his eyes on her and she finished, “They don’t have to be.”

He nodded and looked away. They both knew what it meant and agreed. He wasn’t upset about anything she said, but something bothered him, like a thorn he couldn’t see but felt nonetheless.

“What was the consequence for you?” she asked.

He looked at her again. “I don’t know.” He turned inwards, and she waited patiently for his thoughts. “Maybe I feel confident that if I want to do something, I’ll just do it. I won’t hold back.”

She smiled. “That’s good then.” She sighed. “No dating, so no chatting and swiping in your off time.” He chuckled. “So what do you do when you have a moment?”

“Depends on how long I have and my mood. Lately, I mostly watch something or read when I have time.” She nodded, and he lowered his tone. “When it’s dark at night, other thoughts pop to mind. Like a weekend we once had.”

She instantly frowned and felt a prickle of embarrassment. “You don’t have to say something like that just because of what I said.”

“I’m not. You know I wouldn’t lie to you.”

“You just said you had no time or space to think about that kind of stuff. Why would you think about us?”

When the door knocked, she got up to get it. She did it slowly so Namjoon had time to enter the bathroom before room service came in to clean around, leaving a bucket with ice cubes and the bottle they requested.

She felt bad just observing the waiter work, so she looked out the window at the night view instead. She hoped she hadn’t sounded irritated or demanding, she wasn’t collecting dues or anything like that. If anything, she was a bit frustrated. Their moments together had a lasting impact on her, but she wasn’t sure they meant anything to him. They didn’t have to; she understood that was perhaps ridiculous on her part. Still, the thought that it didn’t matter to him left her feeling lacking. Like it was only unique to her. Like she didn’t mean to him as much he meant to her.

She was so deep in her thoughts that she didn’t notice the waiter quickly excusing himself and leaving or the bathroom door opening. Her eyes were fixed on the stars when a quiet voice sounded near her ear.

“Because it marked me.”

She finally blinked and saw his reflection behind her. He looked serious, almost vulnerable, as he stood behind her without touching her.

“Because it’s one of the best memories I have. I was happy with you. More myself than I get to be most of the time. I see it as a moment in my life I was lucky enough to live. I treasure it, and I always will.”

Relief hit her in a way that watered her eyes, and her head fell back to his shoulder. Her eyes closed as she moved back, hoping to find a firm chest, and she did. His arms wrapped around her waist gently, and she supported them, snuggling closer. She sighed; suddenly, it felt like she was coming home.

“Thank you,” she whispered. “I was worried.”

“Worried?” He asked, raising his chin from her shoulder briefly.

She hummed. “That it didn’t matter to you. That you had forgotten all about it.”

“I could never forget about it. And it mattered a lot. Being with you made me braver, happier, and more confident.” He hid his mouth on her shoulder for a moment. “Seeing you again just reminds me of it all even more.”

“Me too. I was curious. Is it bad that I’m happy you’re single? So you could come up here and give me some attention?” He squeezed his arms around her and hid his smile on her tee shirt. “I mean, I thought maybe you wanted just to have dinner as a friend, and that’d be okay too, but…”

“I told you from the start — free and interested.”

“Yeah, I know, but… you know.”

She rested her head on his, and he smiled. “And it isn’t bad. I thought the same. I saw you, and I couldn’t believe it.”

“Me either. What are the odds?”

“We literally arrived a few days ago, you have no idea.” He pressed his lips to her shoulder before she turned around in his arms.

“Meaning the universe plotted to get us here again, hm?”

“You believe in the universe plotting things?” He chuckled, pressing her close by the lower back. 

“I’m a physicist, I’ve seen things no one can explain. The universe plotting wouldn’t be half as hard to explain.”

“No?” He was amused, insisting just to keep her going.

“No. See, time as we perceive it is—” He leaned to kiss her forehead over her bangs, and her voice quieted. “Is just that, a perception. In physics, some would say time is relative—” She closed her eyes, but he was still only tracing her temple with his lips.

“Relative?”

“Relative. It depends on the observer.” She was ready to stop talking but noticed that he stopped whenever she did. Well, then. “But in quantum mechanics, for example, time is absolute.”

His lips grazed her cheeks. “So… relative or absolute?”

“I theorize both.”

“What does that have to with plotting?” He kissed the corner of her mouth.

“No idea,” she breathed, turning her head to catch his lips.

Her heart jumped with the contact, and she could barely keep herself together. Her hands instantly palmed his shoulders firmly, giving substance to a kiss that wasn’t a dream like many were over the last year. No, that sweet taste was real, as were his fingers brushing her hair back or the arm snaking around her waist to keep her close. 

Her cheeks flushed as their kiss blossomed, feeling the heat navigate her skin in waves. Their lips grazed and brushed in a way that was entirely theirs, and when her tongue pushed through the line of his lips, the world turned upside down.

She had longed for that taste, for that special type of kiss that no other lips could match. She sighed and melted further in his arms, reaching up his scalp to grab his hair. Soon, her heart would explode from excitement just from feeling him again.

So she pulled him back with a sparkly amusement in her eyes. “We said we weren’t in a rush.”

“We’re not,” he agreed, but he was holding his breath and staring at her lips.

“Then have a drink with me. I want to try that whisky you suggested.”

“Right. Okay.”

He peeled himself off her and took a deep breath, ready to be useful somehow while he tried to regain composure, but he was lost. He turned to her for any hint on what he should do first, and she was already setting up the glasses.

“Neat or on the rocks or…?”

“Depends.”

“On?”

He took a deep breath, pulling on the collar of his sweater to let the heat escape. “When you say a drink, do you mean taste it only? Or do you want to talk?”

She chuckled. “We can have a whisky and water if we let the ice melt.”

“That’s barbaric.”

She laughed mischievously. “I knew you’d say that.” She couldn’t stop laughing, and he smiled, nearing her with the whisky bottle in hand. “I don’t need to talk anymore, I need you. I was just trying to get you for making fun of me.”

“I didn’t make fun of you.” He opened the bottle while she spoke and poured one finger of the amber liquid into each glass.

“You kinda did.”

“No,” he refuted firmly, then put the bottle down and raised one glass alongside her. They clinked glasses with eyes deeply connected and drank it all in one go. He savored it, sucking the flavor to the tip of his tongue before letting it down, and she grimaced at how potent it was. “It is a good one. And I didn’t. Now, whenever someone mentions time, all I’ll think about is that you believe in plotting universes, relative and absolute concepts, and that you stop thinking whenever I’m about to kiss you.”

“A fourth thing, huh?” She had ditched the glass and laced her arms around his neck. He hummed. “There’s a flaw to your logic, you know?” He raised an eyebrow. “You’re drawing conclusions from a single observation. As a scientist, I can’t agree.”

“Ahh, what do I do?”

“Easy.” She smirked as he leaned in to kiss her jawline. “Repetition, Mr. Kim Namjoon. All you have to do… is…” His lips moved to her chin, and her eyes hooded. “Do it again.”

He kissed her lips again and squeezed her close, and this time, she had nothing else crossing her mind. Nothing to tease him about or torture her with, just the need for those lips on hers and his firm hands on her.

He all but listened to her thoughts when his hands pressed her into him and rubbed her back along her spine in small but pointed movements that had her sighing. Following the sweet brush of his lips was as natural as swimming down a flowing creek, and it was her pleasure to squeeze him close to her, too.

He raised her in his arms for a second, and she chuckled into their kiss, raising her feet on purpose so he’d support her weight, and he did. His arms gripped her waist firmly and carried her near the bed before lifting her just enough so that she could kneel over it.

She sighed, brushing her hands across his chest. “You might be even stronger than before.”

Normally, he would have felt awkward with such a comment — he cared little for physicality. But coming from her, it made him smile. “Have to work out a lot during the tour.”

She hummed distractedly, her hands palming his broad shoulders. “To build resistance?”

“And stamina.”

His sweet dimples adorned a gorgeous smile, and she bit her lower lip. “My, are you saying you might be a challenge?”

“No, of course not.” He instantly pulled her closer by the waist, feigning a playful worry. “Just that I plan to treat you like you deserve.”

“And what do I deserve?”

He felt her curves, letting his hands reach the top of her ass without going further down. “To be worshipped from head to toe. Appreciated, rewarded, and basked in a sweet afterglow.”

She sighed and closed her eyes with a pout. “Do you have any idea how it feels to hear that? It’s like a dream.” He grinned happily, eagerness hiding in the slight tremble of his fingers waiting for permission. Because of his smile, she was comfortable exposing her every thought, “It’s like a dream, but then there’s you.” Her fingers brushed his cheeks softly, and he focused. “And if you exist and are with me like this, then am I really dreaming?”

“You’re not dreaming,” he whispered, sensing she needed the comfort.

“I’ll really get to have you again?”

“If I’m lucky,” he said, leaning to nuzzle her as she closed her eyes.

“You are,” she sighed, nuzzling him back, her core fluttering in anticipation. “I’ll make you the luckiest man alive. Kiss me, Namjoon.” He gave her a single tentative kiss. “Have me and don’t hold back.”

Her glistening eyes told him what she wanted as resolutely as her voice, so he finally brushed her cheek and tugged her dirty-blonde hair behind her ear as he pressed their lips together again. It felt different this time; they had already kissed and recognized each other, declared their desire, and teased, but they hadn’t asked for that intimacy yet. 

He liked it when she clearly stated what she expected or wanted, and he knew she liked the same. Their consent was explicit between them, and there wasn’t a doubt about how attracted or comfortable they were with each other. All he wanted was to touch her and be with her and receive a perfect reaction. With no judgment, no hesitation, no false premises or distorted ideas of who he was as a person. He was free to be himself with her in intimate and unbelievable ways, and as he kissed her, he realized how much he had missed that.

He stopped their kiss to look at her, flushed and breathing heavily, with hooded brown eyes focused on him, waiting. She didn’t know what he was thinking about but hoped it included continuing this. She gripped his sweater over his shoulders and then looked down, trying to find the hem of that oversized piece, but he was quicker. It took him two seconds to pull the huge hoodie off, revealing a smooth lithe surface that she was instantly compelled to feel with her fingertips. She traced up his firm chest, golden skin unblemished and perfectly plum under her curious hands.

That was the extent she got to focus on him before he tilted her head gently and asked for her attention again. His mouth caught hers in a deep kiss that had her forgetting everything that wasn’t that sweet connection. She forgot he was half naked in front of her and traced her hands to his neck to pull him close, to brush his soft longer hair and get lost.

That was how her pajama shorts came off, his hands dragging along her legs and planting goosebumps in their wake. Their lips didn’t part except for the single moment it took for her top to come off, too. Instantly, she was dazed by his kiss again, yet soon she noticed his hands behind her fighting with her bra, and she chuckled.

“Are you losing, Namjoon?”

He almost grumbled, “It’s not working with me.”

He was pecking and nuzzling her neck and could feel her chuckling in the hum under his mouth, but it didn’t phase him. He wanted that bra off, he just didn’t get why it wasn’t coming off.

Her hands reached behind her to try and help him, and then she stopped. “What did you do?”

She sounded surprised, and he puffed with a shrug. He just wanted to keep going like that, breathing her in and tasting every inch slowly and uninterrupted.

But she pulled away with a curious frown and pulled the back of the bra to her chest so she could see what was happening. Meanwhile, he was starstruck. As she fumbled with the bra, her breasts hid under her wrists, perky nipples pointing and begging to be touched.

He licked his lips with his hands firmly on her waist, waiting, when she snorted. “How did you manage to get the hook on a thread of lace?”

He huffed. “Things like that just happen to me.”

She finally unhooked it and threw the bra far away. “Must be challenging.” He was distracted, with his mind in a completely different orbit, staring at her chest, and she chuckled. “Don’t worry.” She grabbed his hands from her waist to her chest. “I’m not letting you lose today.”

She squeezed his hands on her tits, and he believed her. He’d always believe her; like a fervent devoted follower, he would follow and revere her like she deserved.

He leaned forward to suckle and lick her sensitive nipples, and she arched back, giving him space to do what he wanted. His mouth pressing and leaving wet trails on her skin made her shudder, but his dark eyes looking up while his pink tongue flicked over a hard nipple drove her wild. Her fingers got laced in his hair, and she held his head close, their gazes locked together in a loop that spelled their mounting tension.

She could feel her wetness pooling in her underwear by the time he moved down from her tits, though not without pinching them first. She moaned and leaned further back to make it easy for him to leave a trace of kisses down and over her stomach all the way to her mound.

She let herself fall back to bed, opening her legs with eagerness, and he kneeled between them but pulled one leg to the side. She looked up with a question but realized then she wasn’t fully naked yet and could read in his eyes that he wanted that.

He leaned in to hook his fingers on her laced panties and drag them down, and she smirked. “Can’t wait?”

To see what he remembered so well, and yet not well enough? To taste and smell that piece of heaven again? To snatch and bite and lick that delicious slick he had been reminiscing about for a year?

“No.”

He finally dragged the panties off and instantly bowed to reach her shins with his lips, kissing upwards as he palmed and massaged her calves gently. She sighed and trembled as he made his way up, spreading her legs open for him again in the hopes that he would go where she needed him to. 

Her eyes were closed, taking in every millimeter his lips touched towards the final goal. She was waiting patiently until he started lingering around her inner thighs. Then, she opened her eyes and looked down, only to find him staring at her core all the while he kneaded her hips.

“I’ve never seen you so patient,” she teased, urgency not so subtle in her tone.

“Not patient,” he mouthed against her thigh before sighing. “Trying to make this good for you.”

“It’s fucking good,” she groaned, legs shaking around him in excitement and eagerness. “Don’t make me wait.”

Her wish was his command; either way, he couldn’t wait any longer. He shortened the distance between his objective and his mouth and crashed so hard she instantly moaned and ground against his face. Then he closed his eyes with a deep breath.

His mouth moved on her as he nuzzled her clit, slurping and nibbling on her folds, and she moaned loudly, squirming in place. Fuck, she missed that. How he treated her was intense and fulfilling; it made her feel special every time. Like he wanted to eat her and nothing could stop him, like his mouth was made to pleasure her, and they were just starting.

She reached to grip his hair again and looked down, seeing his face disappearing in her with only his closed eyes visible. That view had her clenching and biting on her lip hard, and he looked up, instantly feeling her flutter once more. His tongue licked faster; he had to know it was all for him, and he wanted more.

“You know what I want,” he mumbled when he pulled away, licking his lips and taking a deep breath. “Do it for me.”

He pressed his mouth to her again and suckled on her clit gently, and she tried holding back a moan. “Only if you do that thing with your mouth—”

He instantly did, tensing his lips over her clit so she could move and have pressure, and the deep moans just rolled out of her lips.

“That’s it.” He licked the slick pooling just beneath his chin. “So fucking sexy.”

She was about to whine when he did it again, and she just moaned. She couldn’t get over what was happening: Namjoon was between her legs again, eating her out and making her tremble and lose her marbles as only he could. Fuck, she wanted him so bad. She wanted to ride that face, that cock, get fucked in every possible angle, scream his name and have him give her all his precious come. Just thinking about it sparked her immediately and she gripped her feet on the mattress to buck her hips into his mouth, savoring the way he relegated breathing all so she could have that perfect pressure just a little longer.

Her core pulsing on his mouth was better than just a shallow orgasm. His groan into her turned the pleasure to bliss as she moaned and gripped his head without truly measuring her strength.

When she ran out of breath, the tension left her completely, and she fell back to the bed. She was so languid, she could have been floating up in the clouds. His instant wet kisses over her mound and inner thighs were soft caresses that couldn’t shake her out of it.

“I love doing this,” he murmured reverently, massaging her hips in up and down movements as if he had not just relaxed her to her very soul.

“And I love it when you do this.”

He grinned and kissed his way up, taking a small bite out of an unsuspecting perky nipple before reaching her lips. She grabbed his head close and made that sweet exchange last right until she let herself fall to the mattress again with a sigh.

“You have such a beautiful mouth,” she breathed, lazily observing him lying back beside her with a shy yet happy chuckle.

“Thanks?”

“Beautiful words, beautiful values, beautiful kisses, and beautiful pussy eating.” She sighed and moved under his arm to rest flushed to his firm torso.

He grinned as he caressed her shoulder. “Remember when I thought you didn't want me to do it?” He could see her raised eyebrow. “Because you wanted to use a toy instead. I thought you didn’t have much faith in me.”

She pouted and tangled their legs. “Really? That’s what you remember?” She traced his buff chest as she went down memory lane. “Because what I remember is falling apart in the blink of an eye every time you ate me out, just like now.”

He pressed her closer and glued his lips to her head. “I’m damn proud of that.”

She hummed, still a bit upset that he remembered the bad over the good, and he turned to hug her closer.

“I was so silly, jumping to conclusions like that, and you immediately taught me not to do that.” He sighed and kissed her head, and she finally hugged him back. “Because there are no masks between us, no lack of faith, and no fears.”

She inhaled his musky scent as she hid in his buff chest. “It’s a learning curve every time.” He hummed against her hair. “Except when you eat me out. A year later, you still remember how to very well.”

He grinned. “Like I said, I’m proud of that.”

“I can see that,” she mumbled, nuzzling his chest and sighing with his warmth. Then, she started pecking it as her hand moved from his back to a small space she created just between them until she snatched his hard-on over his pants. He sucked in a breath, and she chuckled. “Meanwhile, I’m proud of this.” She squeezed him, facing up to speak into his neck, “Are you hard for me?”

He groaned but didn’t move away. “Yeah.”

“Yeah? Don’t tell me, was it my time theories?”

She was playful, and he bit his lip. “Those didn’t go very far.”

“Right. Plus, you’re an important music producer,” she pointed out, dragging her hand along his clothed shaft before slipping inside his boxer briefs and grabbing his length. He trembled, and she smiled. “I know: it must have been my moans.” She grabbed his tip firmly in her fist. “Was it?”

“You sound beautiful.”

His breathing was uneven, and she smiled. “That means I deserve a reward, right?”

“Oh, yeah.”

She grinned at the way he was looking at her. “I want my round of moans.” He bit his lip, looking at her mouth with hooded eyes, and she licked her lips with a cunning grin. “You’ll let me, right?”

He nodded and leaned in, quickly licking her lips before his tongue pushed inside her mouth for her delicious taste. She smiled into their kiss then started licking his tongue whenever he was in the right position, giving him a glimpse of what she’d do if it was his cock instead. His quiet groans as she squeezed the tip of his dick in her hand were making her hot; no matter how much she loved those lips, right now, she was craving something else.

She broke up the kiss and smiled up at him as she pushed him by the shoulders to fall back on the mattress. Her lips curved as she got on top of him and his eyes quickly roamed her entire body as if they didn’t know where to focus first. She sat on his stomach and leaned forward so he could eat and ravish her tits at ease. Meanwhile, she had to smile at the sound of his zipper opening as he opened his pants. No matter how busy he was nibbling her breast, he still was careful to get her access to what she wanted.

Once his hands were back on her waist, trailing her curves gently, she reached behind her and gripped his cock inside the briefs. A teary tip helped her slide her hand better.

She moaned through gritted teeth at the way he was licking and nibbling on her nipple right before pulling away. He grabbed both breasts firmly then pressed his face to them with a sigh.

“I love them.”

She smirked. “I can tell.” Her hand never stopped pumping him, and he was rock hard. “You’re getting worked up for me.” He sighed. “I can’t let it go to waste.” 

He looked at her as she smiled mischievously and moved down along his body. He didn’t want to let go of her gorgeous breasts, and he didn’t want her to move away, not right now. He was ready to convince her to ride him like this, and he already had an argument to persuade her — he’d moan for sure like this, too — but then he groaned, and his thoughts slipped. She had pulled his pants over his length and sat on him, aligning her slit with his dick masterfully. She rolled her hips, and he groaned again, eyes closed and fingertips squishing her tender flesh. She felt so good, even through the fabric of the boxers.

“Namjoon,” she called with a sweet tone. “Open your eyes for me.”

He did, not even knowing when he closed them, and only saw her smirk before she showed him her hand — it was wet, and his cock twitching, squeezed against her folds reminded him why instantly.

She felt it too and chuckled. “Are you dripping for me?” Her tone was sensual as she kept rolling her hips on him. “Is it that good?”

“You know it is,” he mumbled, looking at her only to catch her licking her hand.

She sighed loudly with the expansion of her tongue catching every edge of his flavor. “Fuck, you’re good.” But too soon the flavor was gone, and she leaned on him, gluing her mouth to the corner of his mouth. “You have more for me, right?”

“Fuck—” he groaned, and his hands almost jumped to her hips to stop her, but she pressed his hands right where they were on her chest.

“No, don’t stop,” it sounded like a whiny request, but he instantly lost the ability to go against her wishes. She was pressing and grinding so hard on the tip of his cock that he didn’t know how to think anymore. “Your hands fit my chest so well,” she moaned, squeezing them through his hands. Then, she felt him twitch against her core, and she stopped moving, letting him breathe.

His forehead was covered in a thin layer of sweat, and his expression read concentration. He was focusing on not coming yet, and she smiled.

“I’m sorry, Namjoon.”

His eyes instantly snapped open with alarm.

“I know we both love this, but I need more.” She tilted her head to the side with her tongue peeking between her lips, and he almost cursed. “You’re going to cum in my mouth before you get to cum anywhere else.”

He sighed but only let go of her chest when she tapped his hands. He faced her again then, but for the life of him, it didn’t even occur to him to contradict her. He was so turned on, and he didn’t want to miss any opportunity. Knowing her and them, he knew they were just starting. A week. No masks and no fears. He relaxed and gave her tits a last gentle squeeze before letting go.

She winked at him before turning around to face his crotch, getting comfy over his chest. She was so wet that it was dripping down, so when she tentatively ground her heat on his pecs, there was no surprise to see the slick connecting them both.

She looked over her shoulder at him grabbing her asscheeks and staring at her glistening cunt. She loved the view and would have loved to tease him, but she had other priorities right now.

She turned to finally focus one hundred percent on the dick she was most fond of. It was silly, but she felt like a kid on Christmas hoping for a PlayStation or whatever they wished for these days. It was like unwrapping a gift, one she had experienced it before, and it had her begging for seconds. She pushed his pants and boxer briefs, making sure it was far enough for him to get rid of it all just by squirming, then gasped with happiness and reached for his weeping hard shaft. Her favorite toy; she could barely contain herself.

She stuck out her tongue and collected the precum drops on his tip, making her groan. There it was, more of that delectable taste. She gripped him and instantly put the tip in her mouth, so happy to swirl her tongue around, hoping to have more of it.

He was so deliciously hard in between her lips and squeezing him and gripping his base wasn’t enough. She spread her legs more to have support on his chest and bobbed her head along his shaft, sucking the saliva so it wouldn’t drool down and instantly make a mess. It turned her on so much to feel him hard and needy inside her mouth, eager to shoot his cum at her whim, that she started rolling her hips for any friction she could get. His chest was buff and strong, and she raised a knee so her clit could grind on his pec better.

She moaned, but his cock muffled her until her lips couldn’t stay taut. Then, she let her drool slide down his length, and she pulled back to lick the mess she was making.

“You have such a good cock.”

He only groaned, hands digging into her asscheeks in response. His cheeks were fully crimson now; he was so hot and didn’t know what to do, only that he couldn’t do anything but let her do whatever she wanted.

“Look at what you do to me, hm?” She hummed, trying to reach his balls with her tongue, but he had her in a firm grip — she couldn’t go very far. “Almost coming from grinding on you like this.” She moved her hips, and he saw her clenching around nothing. “Just from blowing you,” a moan pitched her voice because he was helping her press herself to his chest. “Fuck, so good. All of you, so good. I want to cum all over you so bad— But you have to cum first.”

She took him again inside her mouth and bobbed her head as far as she could go. She didn’t bother getting the rest with her hand because it was already working as a cockring around the base. As she recalled, that was the best way to edge him, and his quiet moans confirmed how right she was.

His cock pulsated both at the base and between her lips, so she let him go again.

“Fuck, such a good cock,” she moaned, feeling her slick connect them even more.

“How?” He was hiding his burning cheeks under his hands. “How can you say those things right now?”

She chuckled sensually, then slurped her drool. “You mean I should say it when I’m not drooling all over you? Or that I should only when I figuratively drool all over you?” She was squeezing his cock at the base, looking at the head twitching involuntarily. A tear formed and she grinned; definitely the best gift ever. “So… when you least expect it?” She licked him with the tip of her tongue. “Or right now when you’re driving me so crazy I just want to tease you and poke you to get as muuuuch precome as I possibly can to lick and lick and lick—”

She restarted licking his tip in broad tongue laps until she couldn’t help herself anymore. Suckling his tip was relaxing of sorts, especially when he started squirming. The squirming was because she kept swirling her tongue and squeezing him, and she almost chuckled.

But she only did when he whined something in Korean. Then, she gave him a moment to breathe and readjusted herself, right before she put him in her mouth as far as she could reach and sucked. Slowly, she started bobbing her head again, keeping him on the threshold before gagging and breathing in between. The way he fucked her mouth during her orgasm a year ago came to mind, and she rolled her hips to help with the pleasure. He was so good; she got lost in the feeling and mismatched her breathing. She almost choked and had to pull him out. The red glistening cock stayed close, and she chuckled while she recovered her breath.

“So good,” she praised, jerking off the sweet, abused shaft. He groaned something she didn’t get. “What was that?”

“I—” He gripped the sheets and tried to stop his legs from squirming. “Just nonsense.”

She hummed and nuzzled his cock. “Sexy nonsense in a language I can’t understand…”

He almost hissed when her grip became firmer, nearly squishing the groans out of him. “Why sexy—”

“It comes from you, what else can it be?”

He grunted; he couldn’t breathe. “You drive me crazy. Fuck— it’s all it is.”

“Yeah? Think I can get you there?”

He scoffed and reached to touch the back of her hips again. “As if you don’t know you did multiple times already.”

She chuckled darkly before putting him in her mouth again and licking the tip inside her mouth like a lollipop. “You know I like to hear it.”

“I do…”

“So tell me what you want.”

She stopped now to talk and take her time, but he got impatient. “I want you to keep going,” he said.

“Dirty, Namjoon.” Her tone left no space for interpretation. “Tell me what you want.”

He cursed something under his breath; she didn’t need to know Korean to know that, and she sighed. She had time, they had time. She leaned forward to lick and nibble his inner thighs, humming approvingly when he followed her with his hands, kneading her asscheeks so he could see her glistening cunt better.

“I want you to— to put my dick back inside your mouth and do that thing with your tongue—” he instantly moaned as she did what he asked. “Now up and d—” She bobbed her head slowly, and he groaned, fingers sinking into her hips. He was burning and sweating, it was so good. He was almost there. “Can I—” His breath caught, and he let his head fall back for a moment. “I want you to sit while you do it.”

She tried sitting better on his chest, stopping her sweet grinding, but that was not what he meant. His hands gripped her hips firmly and dragged her back until she could connect with his mouth. Both instantly groaned, but she took it the hardest. His mouth on her again was so good, so much better than a scrap of friction on his chest. Now, she didn’t even need to roll her hips, he was rocking her over his mouth and eating her as if he were starved, making her moan deeply despite his cock in her mouth. Instantly, she relaxed and let him have everything, and he took it all. He rutted into her mouth as he pressed her to his face, gripping her asscheeks, and in seconds he was coming. He groaned desperately inside her while she swallowed every warm spurt of cum he fucked into her mouth.

Then, he lost all strength and fell limp on the mattress, puffing quick breaths to appease his rushing heart. She could only chuckle as she laid back by his side.

“Your favorite place is still the same.”

She leaned to peck all across his chest, going over his clavicles to his neck all while he recovered. She only pulled back when he reached to cup her cheeks and look at her. His sweat was glistening over his forehead and upper lip, mixing with her wetness there, and she smirked, proud of herself. She let herself fall over him and press his lips, which he welcomed wholeheartedly. He brushed her blonde hair back and embraced her closer, tastes and smells mixing in a way he could only ever reminisce about before. 

She gave him one last peck and then nuzzled him once before resting her head on his chest. She was tired but definitely not spent yet.

His breathing was calmer now as he rubbed his nose into her hair. “You have no idea how many times I thought of doing that.”

His whisper fell like a secret confession, so she kept her voice low too, “Yeah?”

“Yeah… you riding me or sitting on my face are… my go-tos.”

She pulled away, surprised to find him still blushing, his eyes half-squinted in embarrassment. She tilted her head. “They are?” He nodded, his expression expectant. She just blinked. “Well, don't worry; the feeling is mutual.”

“You don't have to say it just because I did.” He smiled, and it looked polite.

She instantly frowned; he was repeating her words from before. “Are you kidding? Being with you is at least half the reason I cum when I fantasize. Just you and how exciting it is. How good it is. And still is.”

He leaned in to join their foreheads, and she felt incredibly held and connected. Just like once upon a time.

Suddenly, it dawned on her where she was and who she was with.

“I never thought I'd say that to you,” she confessed.

“I’m glad you did.”

Her eyes focused on his soothed expression. When he opened his eyes, her heart skipped. Those gorgeous dark eyes made her legs weak as they brushed against him when he moved under her.

She looked down, her heart fluttering in a way she couldn’t justify, and he kissed her forehead through a gap in her bangs. He stayed, pressing his lips adoringly to her skin, and she tried not to get wrapped up.

“So you thought of me to cum, same as me…” she wondered, and he hummed. “I have no idea what to make of that.”

He pulled away to speak, and her head immediately fell back on his chest. “Do we have to? Make something of it?” She stayed quiet, listening to his heartbeat. “Or can we just stay like this and enjoy being together again?”

She smiled — right. They both knew what being there meant.

She looked up at him. “I do want to enjoy being with you.” Her hand roamed his firm shoulder, and she bit her bottom lip. “Now, before, you said something about stamina.”

“I did.” His eyes dropped to her lips.

“So you should have plenty of energy, right?”

“I mean… I can go at it for a long time.”

She smirked. “At it, huh? A long time? What does that mean?”

He smiled, knowing she was totally giving his words other meanings. “Well, a concert can take up to three hours.”

“Of dancing and singing?”

“Not constantly—”

“But for a long time!” Her tone was playful as she got on top of him. “I would like to enjoy you in full, but before you mentioned that me riding you was your go-to, and you know me.”

“You always want many things.” He smiled, feeling fuzzy with their familiarity.

“And you should take responsibility for driving me crazy like this,” she said wantonly, about to sit on him but pulling away quickly.

He noticed it, of course. “Where’s my wallet? I should have a condom there.”

She was already getting up. “Don’t worry about it.” She went into the bathroom to grab her essentials bag and returned with a row of them. “Ever since I met you, I always have them in my bag.”

“Good to know I’m a positive influence.”

She hopped back on the bed. “Just seeing that it led to this moment, I’m happy to agree with you.” She tore a wrapper open and put it on him while she mused, “Now, where were we?”

She pumped him to be fully hard again, and he sighed. “I don’t know. Something about me taking responsibility for driving you crazy.”

She grinned. “Right, because I want so many things. And you have so much stamina now.” Her hand was quickening because she was getting excited, but then she remembered that he preferred it firm and slow. “And we don’t even have to squeeze it all into two days this time,” she purred, sitting on his hardened cock with a mischievous smile.

“Tell me what you want,” his tone was gentle as he traced her arms. Just like before, she would ask, and he would make it happen.

“I want to ride you,” she breathed, with dark, lustful eyes set on him. Her hips started their sweet slow dance on him, just grinding her sex on his hard cock, and she focused, looking for all the little hints of how that was making him feel. “I want to remind you why it’s your go-to.”

His cock twitched under her, and he smiled and pulled his hair back right before looking to support her again. “Please.” Her tongue teased her lips as her hips kept moving, grinding their sexes, and his eyes fixed on her glistening mouth. “Fuck, I want you so bad.”

She smiled and leaned in so her lips could peck his sweet cheeks. “And you’ll have me. I’ll make all your dreams come true tonight, hm?”

He hugged her, eyes closed as she infiltrated every nook and cranny of his mind. “Yes, but we’re not dreaming.” He grabbed her head and whispered, “Gonna really have you again.”

Her cheeks burned under his hands. “You are.”

She reached between their bodies to grab him and finally align him with her entrance. She was wet and turned on, and still, it burned to have him stretching and pushing inside her. She bit her lip hard, sitting better to make sure she felt every millimeter of him inside her, and then opened her eyes. He looked just as fucked out, and she was reminded why riding him was absolutely blissful.

“Not gonna ask you— When’s the last time you had— a cunt this good riding you cause— fuck— I know that was me.” He was gripping her hips, and she smiled, looking down at where his cock disappeared inside her. The sight alone made her clench. “Fuck, I’m gonna milk you so right—”

A moan pitched her voice as she rode him, and she noticed he wasn’t looking at her. He looked focused, almost tortured as his fingers dug into her skin and his hard cock hit all the right spots.

“Look at me,” she asked, sensual voice charming him instantly. Her cheeks were flushed as she smiled and rolled her hips, tits bouncing with every movement. “Come here,” she said and grabbed his hands to place them over her chest. She moaned when he pressed her nipples. “You’re so fucking good—”

He groaned and instantly tried stopping her hips. “Wait—”

He looked frightfully on edge, so she stopped. “Namjoon, baby,” she mewled, pouting. “What’s wrong?”

He relaxed back into the pillow and recovered his breath. “Shit.”

“No, no. Say it.”

Her tone was so playful that he opened his eyes, and finally saw it. He blew the hair out of his eyes. “You know—”

“I know, and you know,” she interrupted, looking down at his body like she wanted to eat him up. “And if you want me to ride your cock to cum inside this pussy just like you dreamt of, you’ll say it just for me to hear.”

His eyes sparked. “I did miss that sassy mouth.”

“All yours,” she cooed, reaching for his hand to kiss it. “We’re not dreaming.”

He was so happy they weren’t. “You feel so good I almost burst.”

She smirked. “I never get tired of hearing that.”

She kissed his hand again and restarted moving. It didn’t take long for him to look the same way as before, and she bit her lip, loving that sexy and fucked-out look on him. She dragged his hands along her body again, reaching her chest to make him give it some love.

He instantly pinched her nipples, and she moaned. His reaction — closing his eyes again — got her riled up.

“All that stamina… and you get this weak so easy?” She was not stopping; with every move, she felt him deeper and deeper. There was no way she was stopping. “What is it?” She asked when he gave her a look that bordered on frustration. “Don't like it?”

“I do.”

“Good,” she sighed, breath hitching. “Then where's all that energy gone?” He squeezed her tits, and she giggled. “Ah… Could it be… me?”

“It’s definitely you,” he mumbled, legs opening to reach even deeper inside her.

She moaned louder, and her mask finally broke; she leaned forward and kissed him. Her fingers gripped his hair as her anxious tongue reached for his taste, so inebriated she was no longer thinking. 

Her mouth escaped to kiss his neck. “So good— I want your cum so bad.”

“I'll give it to you,” his voice was a whisper as he held her.

“I'm close,” she whined, teeth grazing his skin.

“Me too.” He kissed her shoulder, hands lowering to her ass to help her go faster.

“Come with me, okay?” She was clenching hard, and she knew she'd pop any second. “You have to fill me up right.”

She had no idea what she was saying anymore, only that the tension in her lower stomach was about to snap. She sat up to have the perfect angle and look at the man she was fucking, straight out of her dreams, when he caught her hand. His mouth was agape, dark hooded eyes focused on her while sweat covered his face and neck. She knew because he dragged her hand over his hot chest to wrap around his neck, and her eyes jumped back up. She couldn’t help the rush inside her; he looked so fucking hot under her hand like that while she rode him for everything he had.

He returned her gaze, keeping her hand exactly where it was.

“You're so good— Give it to me—” her moan was breathy as her nails sank into his supple skin. “I want it— Give it to me.”

His eyebrows puckered, and he groaned something she didn't understand, but no words were needed. She felt him twitch inside her with the start of his orgasm and that sparked her up. Her pleasure bubbled around him, pressing and clenching around his length in successive orgasmic waves that left her adrift.

When the pleasure dissipated from her nerve ends, she finally took a breath and looked down. Her hand was perhaps a bit too tight around his throat. 

“Oh, sorry. Did I hurt you?”

He grabbed her retracting hand and kissed it. “No.”

His touch was gentle, thumb caressing her leg while they recovered their breath. She instantly smiled, then leaned in to glue their bodies together and kiss him again and again.

Next chapter >

[mschievousx]

now and then | b.b.

pairing: benedict bridgerton x ofc

summary: loraine silva always knew she was not normal. she loves unusual things. she loves her father's guns, horses, boxing, climbing a tree, falling from a tree, engineering, astronomy... oh, and a man eleven years older.

series masterlist

x. ten: live that way

it was the first time in a while that the sunlight touched her face and it did not hurt. she stirred awake, the light seemed to be poking her from sleep. raine tossed, pulling the sheets deeper to her.

"i was afraid you will not be here when i wake up."

his morning voice greeted her as he placed a hand on her head and played with her hair. ah yes, last night really did happen. she buried herself on his chest, taking in his natural smell.

she looked up at him, her lips grazing his collarbone as she spoke with a smile, "anthony and violet are going to kill us."

benedict chuckled lowly at her jest, "they will not."

she returned back to his chest, closing her eyes once again. he planted his face on top of her head, seemingly taking in her smell as well. this was it. these were the arms she has longed for—the comfort she has been seeking.

"i am too tired." her muffled voice resounded.

he planted a kiss on her for solace, "it is alright. i will be here."

raine pursed her lips, deciding if she should say anything about her grave situation later and ruin the moment or not. but as we have always known, she was a frank one. it would not be her if she wasn't.

"this may be the last time we will be together."

"then i will wait for you."

he replied with ease, professing confidence amidst the direness of everything around them.

raine was sure though—that the intensity of the situation has not sunk in on benedict yet. she was with him, alive and well right now. how easy it was to be lost in the blissfulness of the moment.

she slowly sat up, leaning for a kiss on his forehead as she removed herself from the sheets, "let us go. they will grow wary of our absence."

raine clothed herself as the man kept his eyes on her. she turned to him, instructing that he follow down after a couple of minutes to avoid suspicion from the family. she turned the knob, exiting the room silently.

as she looked up to walk, she was met with a viscount already staring curiously at her.

"what? it's my room. ho—how was the ball?" she said in a pitched voice, quite defensively, causing anthony to narrow his eyes at her.

━━━ ✦ ❘ ☽ 【❖】 ☾ ❘ ✦ ━━━

she ate quite the breakfast, treating it as if it was her last meal. at the very least, she was happy she ate with the bridgertons—the only family she has left.

after a meal for breakfast, she excused herself at once, quickly going to anthony's office with raphael in tow. they have been going back to back for strategies on what to do for more than two hours already, now settling in silence to let themselves take a breath. the colonel called for her out of the blue, the latter waiting for him to continue.

"lord high chancellor scott will be there."

she looked with confusion at that. raine was familiar of the man, yes, but she has not seen him ever.

"i do not know what he is like."

"raine, i have not told you one thing." he began, words laced with shame, "they took general's body."

in truth, she knew already. raphael would have done anything to bring her father to her even if a lifeless body. he would actually give his life to his superior since the general saved him before in the streets of homelessness too.

"i have figured, given that you returned alone without his remains. you would not have left if you could."

she tightly smiled at him, the most form of comfort they could achieve in this moment.

"it was him. he was there when they attacked our quarters, ordering his men." he revealed, regret in his voice on how he was not able to do anything to save the general in that time.

raine put her pen down, closing her eyes for a second before turning to him, "why are you telling me this just now?"

"i was debating myself whether i should." he replied with doubt. he knew how the girl can get mad easily sometimes, especially that concerning her family.

she stared out of nowhere, trying to think of something. an idea popped in her head as she spoke with a realisation, "we will use that to our advantage then."

"no, that's..." raphael seemed go have caught on what she was thinking. he showed his clear disagreement with her plan, "you will be charged for high treason."

"by questioning his person?" she scoffed at the idea of a soft high chancellor.

"by questioning his person, you are accusing him." the colonel retorted, his arms on his waist, thinking of other solutions as well.

"it is not an accusation if it is true."

"it is an accusation if we cannot prove it."

raine knew he was right. they could do nothing about it if they cannot prove it, "we can build the story around us, put the rest of the soldiers outside of it all."

he sat beside her on the couch, facing her calmly as if giving up, "they all knew what we were doing, raine. there was nothing like only the general and i. the whole troop knew the issue we found and the measures we were taking. they are all highly ranked men and were the most trusted by your father."

"i do not care." she said with a slam, staring him down with firm, "forty-six soldiers, raphael. forty-six."

despite her best efforts, a tear fell from her already luminous eyes. the thought that these men who should have been celebrated by their services are coming close to dishonor angers and pities her at the same time.

"i will not let you all die."

he placed a hand over hers, "we are soldiers. we have been prepared for this."

"not without dignity."

raine declared with might. she will make sure to turn the tables, and if it will not, she will fucking flip it over.

he could do nothing but nod slowly, accepting her point. he took a glimpse at his watch, ruffling the girl's hair as he stood up.

"it's noon."

she nodded, following the man outside the study, "gather them."

currently in the hallway, waiting for carriages after carriages to arrive, the second daughter caught sight of her and took her hand.

"raine, come. just for a while."

she followed the young woman up to her bedroom where penelope stands, waiting in anxiety. eloise gestured to the redhead as she offered.

"penelope can help you turn the people's favor to you."

getting a hint of what she was trying to say, raine tightly smiled at them, "lady whistledown?"

penelope stopped her tiny movements of unease as she turned to the silva, both of them asking her in chorus, "how did you know?"

"no," she ignored the question. she was a daughter of a general, of course she would know. she stepped towards the girl, addressing their idea to help, "i appreciate you both trying to help, but no. they knew of my father's activities and he was a general."

raine took the featherington's hands and held them softly, "my best bet is they know you are lady whistledown and is just letting you be for now since you have not attacked them directly."

"but you cannot go there like this." eloise voiced in distress and worry.

she did not realise that other people were being affected by her situation this much. the young silva thought she has managed to keep them off and away—enough that they would not need to worry. evidently, that was not the case.

"come here." and so, she placed each of her arms on the girls' shoulders, bringing them in on a tight hug. it may have been her imagination, but eloise let out a small sob as she wrapped her arms on her.

they exited the room after, descending it with begrudging steps. the carriages have arrived and are only waiting for them. the bridgertons gathered near the door to bid her farewell. she turned, addressing them for possibly the last time.

"i ask of you all, do not go anywhere near the palace."

the matriarch could not help herself but grab the girl, enveloping her in one of the warmest hugs the young one has ever received. violet kissed the top of her head, a gesture that says all will be well.

raine knew it was not going to be.

and so, she continued on her way, exiting the bridgertons' home to see the carriages lined up, all filled with soldiers. they waited for her to get in just as benedict came forward. he held her hand tightly, prompting her chin up as he caught her lips in his.

she tasted like heartache and war.

━━━ ✦ ❘ ☽ 【❖】 ☾ ❘ ✦ ━━━

the twelve carriages that contained the forty-six soldiers and loraine silva arrived at the front of the palace in a processional manner. a significant number of citizens have gathered. at the sight of the hottest topic of the town—the country, even—some were yelling in support to them and some against.

the viscountess, the colonel, and the major sat on the first carriage, the men exiting first. she followed, not sparing any look to the people. they could not affored to cheer nor smile. this was the deciding moment of their future.

raphael and raine entered the palace alone, the soldiers all lined up in a row outside, facing the people. they were greeted coldly and strictly by both royal guards and other military that she was sure must have interacted with her father at least once. they were guided into different rooms. she was given nothing but the wary and observing gazes of the unknown soldiers guarding her.

the colonel has been away for more than an hour now. she understood that they were interrogating him first, squeezing all the details before they would deal with her nuisance. not later than her own planning of her statements in her head, the door opened to reveal the man, head leveled properly. but, she could tell. that it was only his rank that made him still have the dignity to raise his head. however, the inner raphael? she could see him conceding and casting the head downwards.

she was prompted to stand up, them crossing each other as she left the room and walked towards where raphael came from. the doors opened to reveal the queen, brimsley behind, and the lord high chancellor with two other parliamentary members and two decorated generals, it seems.

raine sat across them all as lord scott did not waste time to begin his questions, "did you know of your father's treacherous plans against the crown?"

just by the first question, she already knew she wanted to shoot him. he was enjoying this, evidently on his tone.

"i did not."

he scoffed sarcastically at that, turning to the other members present as if gaining their attention, "i find it hard to believe, considering how close you both were, especially after the death of your mother and brother—god rest their souls."

it was a foul. mentioning them both amidst all of this was a great foul. she narrowed her eyes at him, firmly and armed as her voice sounded with confidence, increasing in volume.

"i did not know because there were no treacherous plans in the first place."

the members of the parliament leaned back slowly with their chins raised in an insulted manner. the two generals present turned to them with a curious look. ah, these generals are not involved in this.

lord scott noticed their interest piqued and hurried to push the matter to the young lady, "major general silva was reported of having questionable communications within the military force. we were monitoring him for months."

he continued to reveal the story he has crafted so well against them, "in the most recent event, he was caught exchanging fire with the british military, resisting in the quarters that must have served as their unofficial office for such activities."

she sat up straight with a piercing look at him, offense clear intended on her tone, "and who can attest to this?"

"girl, you question the credibility of the sources of the highest governments of the crown?!" he bellowed, sitting at the edge of his seat as the other members gestured for him to calm down.

"yes, in fact, i do."

"loraine, address the assertions."

the queen spoke for the first time. ah, she was not involved either. raine could tell she was trying to help, trying to get her out of this.

"your majesty," the girl began, turning to the queen with respect in contrast to the lord high chancellor, "my father was not a traitor and neither am i or raphael."

"where is the quarters where armand was unfortunately killed?" she asked outright.

the young silva could see right through the queen's plans. her majesty has conceded the matters of the girl's father. there was no saving his legacy—he was not saved already. it was a lost cause.

charlotte focused on his offspring, saving her from this is the only thing she could do for the family. and fortunately, the girl looked like she did not know anything.

raine had no words to answer at all. all the planning they did, all the stories she prepared—they went to the drain in just one question.

the queen waved her hand, the footman understanding her language. he opened the door and there enters raphael. he sat on the other chair beside the girl as charlotte continued.

"colonel montague has admitted to all suspicions." at the mention, raine turned to the man instantly, looking at him in surprise. the queen continued, "your lack of knowledge in the basic information of their activities suggests that you were indeed oblivious to the acts of treachery to the crown."

the girl glared at the queen, completely opposing her idea of helping. she declared clearly, word per word in firmness, "there was no betrayal from our end."

she clutched the couch, anger rising at their refusal to listen and acknowledge her side. other than being known for her unceasing confessions to the second bridgerton son, raine is also infamous for her hatred and passive-agressiveness.

"the colonel has copies of multiple reports that were altered to provide misinformation and cause mayhem in the military communication." her voice maintained the strength of her argument, "they were investigating it for months, even during my debut. we can call people as witness—"

raine held her tongue in time. she does not wish to put people on the government's eyes anymore. she swiftly dismissed the previous idea, continuing her previous point.

"the night they were ambushed on the way to the ball... tell them, raphael."

she turned to the other man who stayed silent the whole time, beckoning him to talk about what he witnessed in all actuality. however, the latter refused to utter a single word. she furiously turned back to the high officials.

"he saw the british insignia—the very people my father promised to protect the crown with." the young one spat the words with absolute hate, pointing her finger to the high chancellor, "and in fact, when they attacked my father in the quarters, you were there lord scott, were you not?!"

"you dare declare such accusation when you do not even know its location!" lord scott raised his voice, growling in her disrespect, "we are not here to address the matters of your father. he was a traitor. you are here to be questioned about your involvement in the said treason!"

raphael moved, raising his head to the officials with a determined voice, "i have conceded to everything. i have divulged all you wanted to know. the girl is entirely unaware of our activities!"

"oh, stop making her look like a child!" the high chancellor sneered at him, looking at loraine with sarcasm, "the lady has been raised by a general. everyone knows of your physical skills and marksmanship, taught by your very own father since you were young."

he stood up with authority, slamming his words with distaste. he stepped forwards as he pointed down a finger to stress his point. the young silva's eyes darkened at that, her mind going blank as he continue.

"there is no need to stray far from the truth."

he was too loud for her, his words biting her. she recognised this tension, this atmosphere. this is the battle. this is the war.

"you grew up mostly with him, taught everything by him, discussed plans with him, strategised with him," he paused, as if gathering his breath before he spat with malice.

"and committed high treason with him!"

raine stood up at once, unclasping her gun from her thigh in the process as she shot the man on his chest twice, his blood getting on her dress and features. the queen jumped and recoiled at the sound, brimsley nearing her instantly. the rest of the members jumped away and the generals reached for their guns.

loraine silva has shot the lord high chancellor.

one of the generals opted to reach for the actively dying lord scott, his hands on his chest as his mouth froze and jaw locked in neural shock.

the girl turned to the general and pointed her gun at him, "help him and see what follows."

he slowly backed with the queen gesturing for him to stay down as well. her majesty understood the young lady. she was not a threat to anyone else at the room as long as they were not a threat to her.

she walked to near the chancellor that leaned back helplessly with blood on the foamed chair, "you were right about everything but one."

she did not dropped her gun, still aiming it to his head now with clear dark intent. her voice was neither loud nor small, neither hard nor soft. it was the kind that would cause you to squirm.

"we did not betray the crown. we did not betray its people."

her voice did not declare war. it proclaimed the ending.

"and if we did," she leaned down to him as if whispering, "none of you will ever know."

raine stood straight up, sneering at the chancellor below her, "we would not have been as stupid as you."

she pulled the trigger thrice more—with no mercy or pity, with no regards of the people around her. seeing him finally stop breathing, she dropped her arm down, still gripping the gun hard.

"it would have done you good to know that i have his patience as well."

by the remnants of her rage, the future became clear—it's going to fall apart.

"your majesty," raine turned to the queen. the two generals behind her went for their guns seeing the girl's back on them. charlotte raised her hand immediately, halting the actions of both men as the silva continued, "the reports and all related documents are in the care of viscount bridgerton."

she dipped her head down in a bow for a few respectful seconds before standing back upright, feet together, leaning in a martial manner.

"i apologise for the mess, aunt lottie."

raine walked away, raphael following closely. he wanted to say something so badly, but was fearful of disturbing the already unstable state of the girl.

they exited the palace with no other encounters, likely because of her majesty's intercession. reaching outside the fence, the people tripling in number than earlier. they all yelled unintelligibly at the sight of them. her father's soldiers turned about face at their arrival. it was obvious that they heard the gunshots—her father's silver flintlock pepperbox has a hell of a sound.

gilbert returned raphael's gun, the latter cocking it immediately up in the air before firing. the crowd silenced in chorus as the girl inhaled deeply.

"each and every one of you has seen my father. major general silva had always been for the people."

while her father carried the rank of a major general, he was not disconnected with the people. yes, he was still distant for security purposes, but for a man his rank, he willingly shook hands with the people that deserved it.

and, armand often told her that he gets to shake more hands of the commoners and the general public than the officials.

"he was not a traitor. they have blamed their own treachery to my father, killed my father, and killed his loyal men—men that were all defending the crown and its people. this is what has become of our society. i do not care if you are busy with the social season and of other pleasures. this should be your duty as a person behind the crown."

she walked at the center, nearing them all so that they would hear her words better—words that they shall engrave in their hearts and minds, etched in their very soul.

"i stand before you all, not only as his daughter, but as someone who will never sit whilst injustice is apparent."

the viscountess silva's voice deepened with conviction. her eyes were flaring with truth and patriotism. she caught everyone's gaze and held it until it hurt.

"one who will not cover her ears against the screams of the dead."

"one who will not close her eyes in the midst of people abusing their power."

"one who will never sleep soundly whilst there are bodies of the wronged under each of our beds. "

all of her will went to her voice as she declared her final words to the public.

"this is the age of awakening. do not go gentle into that good night!"

raine continued to speak in the words coded by her father, the late major general, the superior of all. the forty-six soldiers answering with equal strength.

"min koimitheís ísycha ekeíni tin kalí nýchta!"

"orgí, orgí enántia sto svísimo tou fotós!"

they placed their right fists on top of their heart as the young lady and raphael found the royal guards and other military personnel. there was no escaping their situation now. what they did ensured only one path, and that was their head to the execution block.

the queen has ordered to not execute them on the spot. she reasoned that it would mean making them martyrs on the eyes of the people and they want to avoid that—although in truth, she pushed for them to have a private execution because that is what the two wanted.

viscountess loraine silva and colonel raphael montague turned about face to the rest of the soldiers. the latter saluted in uniform to the colonel, him returning it. they were saluting their ranks for the last time. she saluted the men this time, and by her surprise, the soldiers then turned to the young lady and saluted to her.

they were not supposed to salute back to her. she has no official rank.

raphael nudged her, prompting the girl to dismiss the salute as did the soldiers. a warm smile settled on her lips before both of them turned to the guards.

this is it. there is no going back.

and just as raine entered the vehicle to transport them to the cells, she completely missed the familiar head standing out from the crowd like a sore thumb despite her telling him not to attend.

once again, he could do nothing but hold his head down and shut his eyes at the end of the day. his palms formed a fist, biting his lips intensely as tears graced the floor under him.

every storm runs out of rain.

taglist: @aadu2173 @imgondeletedis @pumkiinpasties @rebleforkicks @perseny @everavenclaw @datingbtr @peetahpahkah @idek-what-to-put @aysamuka

[rarepairdumpster]

Serial Killer AU #2 Part 1

Pairing: Viktor/Silco (Arcane) Rating: M C/W: Discussing Crimes, Murder, Prison Break, Minor Viktor/Jayce, Viktor forgot how to be ethical

Prison AU where Silco an inmate infamous for many, many reasons. 

Viktor is a shrink that's doing a study on criminal behaviour, with a focus on Silco.

But Viktor ends up falling for Silco during their sessions.

Jayce is the warden who thinks he'll get in Viktor's pants by letting him do his study there.

Viktor being instrumental in Silco's escape though.

He's the one that planned it. He admitted his feelings to Silco during their session (private unrecorded ofc) and then explained he had a plan.

Silco getting Viktor off with just his voice and the slide of his stare during one of their sessions, when Silco is going into why he commited a certain crime.

"I wasn't aware you were so sensitive, Doctor"

Viktor ends the session early because he hasn't admitted to himself that he's in love with Silco yet.

Silco watches him go with a smirk.

Viktor trying to think of the handsome warden as he touches himself in his own bed, but Silco keeps creeping into his thoughts.

Viktor's hand wrapping around his own neck and squeezing as Silco's voice plays in his head, purring the man's enjoyment of strangulation.

He'd said it was a rush. That there was nothing like the power that came with having a life in his hands, squeezing it out as hot flesh bucked and spasmed beneath him. And he'd said as he let his long, pale fingers caress the table separating them.

Viktor couldn't help imagining his own body being the one bucking and shuddering beneath Silco.

Couldn't stop his cock from hardening or his cheeks from flushing. He also couldn't tear his attention from Silco, whose gaze seemed to brand him.

"Are my descriptions bothering you?"

"N-no"

"Hmm. Maybe I should go into more detail then"

Silco recalls one where he could feel the victim getting hard as he strangled them. Viktor is trying his hardest to not show how much it's affecting him but Silco has to know if he's bringing this up. Silco goes on to say that was the only one where he had considered sexual deviance.

"Why didn't you?"

"He wasn't my type."

"He was your type to kill though?"

"I have different standards for who I kill and who I shove my cock into."

Viktior moistening his lips and looking down at his notes without answering.

At the end of the session, just before Silco is taken away, he says "By the way, Doctor, you are that type." Then smirks and is taken out of sight.

Viktor is both elated and annoyed working with Silco. He goes on a few dates with Jayce to try and get over Silco but it does not work.

The first time they go to bed, he is too afraid to ask Jayce to choke him but thinking about it, he would only enjoy it from Silco.

Silco being perceptive enough to know Viktor went to bed with the warden and quietly mocking his taste in bedfellows.

As pretty as Jayce is, Silco knows he's not capable of what the Doctor needs.

"Did you think about me with him? While he was pounding you from behind did you wish it was my cock?"

"Those large hands and deep pockets can do a lot, I'm sure, but you don't need clumsy paws groping you."

"No, my darling. The thought of my fingers around your neck are more titillating and beautiful than any pearls or diamonds he could cover my bruises with."

(Silco says during a session)

Its a quiet purr, but there's an edge to it as he leans closer to Viktor, his stare more intense than usual.

Viktor has to stop himself from squirming when Silco calls him darling

For a while after Silco escapes, they can't see each other to avoid suspicion. He starts killing again and Viktor is called in to help find him. Silco leaves messages/signs that tell Viktor where he is but he tells the police something else. He also sometimes leaves love notes or small gifts for Viktor too

Their first kiss is almost violent.

Silco fucking Viktor at the earliest (safest) opportunity after his escape, and he is not gentle

Viktor pants and moans as Silco actually rips his goddamn clothes open

Viktor can taste blood in his mouth as Silco's hands roam over him and finally take hold of his cock in one hand and his neck in the other.

Viktor sighs when Silco's fingers finally wrap around his throat like they were made to fit together, Silco's thumb toying with his Adams apple as he gasps

The sick relief Viktor feels when those hands wrap around his neck and squeeze.

Silco purring "Does it feel as good as you imagined, Doctor"

Doctor has become an endearment instead of a title

Silco asks to tease him. He knows very well how good it feels to his Doctor.

Part 2

Arch + Woods

[elainsgirl]

you know, im actually tired of azriel's bonus chapter being talked 24/7 like its the most major thing ever. I never seen people get worked up on a bonus chapter that didnt even happen at the end of the book! acosf is the reason why this fandom is so toxic!

Hey anon 🫶

I definitely agree. Bonuses aren’t meant to be given such significance as Azriel’s bonus is given. At this point, His bonus seems to be more important then the foreshadowing in ACOSF it self.

“The shadows were ready to strike Nesta when she insulted Elain during their fight? Doesn’t matter because In Azriel’s bonus they disappear therefore that’s the only proof I need to claim that they absolutely despise and fear her 🥸”

Its a BONUS chapter, that too it was only part of a limited special edition. Let’s be realistic for a second - if someone hadn’t posted it online for everyone to see, those of us who hadn’t brought the SE, we would not know the contents of the bonus. If someone hadn’t kept up with SJM and JUST picked up acosf after reading acotar but is unaware of any bonuses, they too would not know about what occurred in Azriel’s bonus, why? Because its information that is not required to know. Its just an EXTRA. That confirms some suspicions in SF. I can go into detail to prove the irrelevancy of the bonus but ACOSF already tells you everything you need to know for the next book. I hadn’t read Azriel’s bonus until two years ago. Before reading it - elriel, much like Nessian, were blatantly obvious. After reading it? Elriel is still endgame. The reason the bonus is so talked about is due to the fact an entire ship relies on it. Gwynriel’s do not have anything in acosf to prove their ship, its just a bunch of out of context scenes and dialogues that aren’t in any way romantic or foreshadowing. Add in the bonus and GA have something to grasp onto even though it contradicts the book and well…the bonus itself lmfao. Then you have eluciens using the bonus as some concrete proof elriel is toxic and a future abusive relationship. That Azriel is an incel who only wants Elain superficially and Elain is just a little, clueless child who walks around lying to people about what she wants.

Antis CLUTCH onto the bonus as most of their arguments and claims use it as “proof” for whatever anti elriel bs they want to spread. But their points only make sense with the bonus, not without which tells you all you need to know about how valid their arguments are.

Feysands bonus is not talked about bcs it easily disproves gwynriel/elucien. Wings and Ember is only used as a way to show how “toxic” Cassian is otherwise its kept under wraps bcs once again, it disproves antis takes. If you had something that dismissed your entire ships within a couple of lines - ofc you’d avoid it like the plague. Its only Azriels bonus that can give them some hope that their worst nightmare won’t come true. That too, the hope is given after they twist and turn the scenes to fit their narratives.

It’s so important to understand elriels bonus sorry, Azriel’s bonus happens during acosf and not after. Its not the end of the book, after the bonus - there is no change or shift in the dynamic between Gwyn and Azriel. They remain as your usual mentor/mentoree duo. Even more important to remember is in regards to Gwynriel, nothing in the bonus is mentioned. Not their session, not the “spark”, not the necklace. Absolutely nothing. Why? Because it is irrelevant. Yet we get told about Azriel’s mood being off which relates to the elriel part of the bonus directly paralleling Cassian after his bonus w Nesta. Because THAT is relevant.

YEP. The fandom was toxic pre-acosf but it’s nothing compared to now. Unless you’re surrounding yourself with content you like and want to see - you can’t just enjoy general fandom spaces anymore.

Acosf brought up:

Anti Feysand agenda

Nesta vs inner circle

critique of the IC

Pro Tamlin apologists to the point of invalidating Feyre’s trauma

The infamous ship war

Anti Nessian vs pro Nesris

Readers opinion being pushed more then Authors intent.

I hope after Elains book - the fandom goes back to being semi-toxic again and more tolerable/enjoyable then it is now.

[bwoahtastic]

can we go back to the curse verse and get nico rosberg cursed with unknowingly having his younger williams era self appear (like legit pop into existence) in the paddock.. the first to notice was the younger drivers and then it was fernando and lewis, and lastly all the retired drivers who were hanging around the track that day.. ofc younger!nico is freaked the fuck out, and keeps avoiding any physical contact (seb/jenson/fernando?) that's trying to help him calm down (lewis is *also* freaking out no thanks). it's oscar who decides to be the genius (he has his suspicions) and calls over mark and poof younger!nico runs over to this older version of his teammate who yes is different from what he remmembers, and was(? is?) very annoying but holds his hand when he starts scratching them from being too anxious. cue the disbelief on everyone's face because they're either curious or jealous.

older!nico is definitely blushing and shaking his head when he does find his younger self hiding behind mark (bcs it was suppose to be a secret how well they take care of each other) lol #pleasesavemefromthebarenwastelandsofnicoandmarkfriendshiplore #oramidelusional

OH PLSS

Little baby twink Nico being so confused and scared! Running around the paddock like a headless chicken trying to find something or someone familiar.

Jenson spotting him first and trying to get him closer but Nico spooks! And also seb can't convince him to stay, he almost succeeds but then Nico sees Lewis and Lewis looks upset at him and it makes baby nico spook again!

Oscar watching the chaos unfold and then coming up with a plan. Mark spoke fondly of young Nico before so he goes to fetch his mentor. Oscar being quite amused when young Nico instantly rushes over to him. Mark holding his hand because he knows Nico will scratch at them when he is too anxious! Ni o even just tucking himself into Mark's side and finally calming down a bit.

Older nico finding his younger self like this and blushing a bit because he thought their friendship would be secret sksk. Mark holding out his other arm for older Nico and nico just tucks himself under there and smiles at his younger self, wanting to make him feel better!

[jadeshifting]

Can i hear a little about your Smallville DR?

I started watching the show this month and now i want one too

YESSS OFC i have an intro post for it coming up whenever i get to writing it but until then here’s a yap sesh of some of the basics :

— JADE’S SMALLVILLE DR ( yap yap )

⋆｡°✩ ⋆⁺｡˚⋆˙‧₊✩₊‧˙⋆˚｡⁺⋆ ✩°｡⋆ ⋆｡°✩ ⋆⁺｡˚⋆˙‧₊✩₊‧˙⋆˚｡⁺⋆ ✩°

.・゜゜・　　・゜゜・．.・゜゜・　　・゜゜・

moving from Louisiana to Smallville, Kansas is one of the biggest vibe changes you can get from small town to small town—swapping out the mosquitos, glowing ember fireflies and weathered cobblestone for miles and miles of cornfields and more evergreen tractors on the roads than cars

moving in with my Aunt Vi and Uncle Donnie into their little cornflower blue farmhouse with a wrap around porch and planning on spending weekends helping out at their family business, DEARBORNE ORCHARDS, which boasts a few acres of bustling apple orchards around the back of their property

of course, apple season is starting just as SMALLVILLE HIGH is reconvening. after all, that was one of the conditions for the move—attend school there for my senior year while i’m working at the orchard

i split my time evenly between the Smallville Crows cheerleading team and The Torch, the school newspaper that CHLOE SULLIVAN offers me a spot on shortly after i arrive. of course, by “split my time evenly” i mean pitching my pom-poms into my locker with a glittery clang and dead sprinting halfway across campus to make it to the newspaper room in time for Chloe’s pep talk—i cut it close, sometimes earning a squinty glance from her, but i always make it

Chloe and i get along almost too well, with her practically cornering me during my first week at school to “get some answers.” (i’ve got nothing to hide, but something tells me she was just itching to put my arrival on her Wall of Weird.) she’s plenty welcoming once she realizes i’m not one of the “strange town occurrences.” (thanks, i guess?)

once she invites me to join the Torch i start my own column called APPLE'S CORE—you know, the typical ramblings and stuff. ‘new in Smallville’, ‘weird stuff going on in town’, ‘what color should we paint the walls of The Talon?’ still, Chloe says it’s “fresh and new”, and the two of us spend countless late nights in the newspaper room working on the next issue, fingers flying across the loud keyboards and chewed-lips illuminated by the dim glow of the boxy desktop monitors

with Chloe, of course, comes CLARK KENT. he picks up bales of hay at his family’s farm across the street (with one arm), i stare at him from the gravel driveway of my own house. he gets slammed into at football practice and doesn’t move, just grins. i stare. he doesn’t notice—he never notices. he’s clueless and always visibly preoccupied with something else. it’s like his mind is always elsewhere—there with you, talking to you, but never quite. i chew at the end of my pencil as i’m scribbling out the first draft of my next column, trying to focus on homecoming instead of where Clark’s mind could be going when he gets that faraway look in his eyes

i'm too close to everything for them to keep me away, though—Chloe's Wall of Weird, all of her suspicions, Clark Kent and the fact that his shirt isn't just popping at the buttons with muscles, but secrets, too. LEX LUTHOR and the depths of the Luthor Mansion, which is a gleaming sanitary cave compared to the rugged warmth of the rest of Smallville. i know something is up nearly the moment i pull up into town—is it because it's obvious, or because i hear things? too many things, as a matter of fact

the METEOR tugs at the strings of my head, making everything entirely too loud. i get headaches in class and bury my head in my arms, avoiding the conspiratorial squints of Chloe and the concerned eyes of Clark. i know they’re trying to figure out what’s going on in Smallville, and the last thing i need is for them to figure out i have some banshee-freak SONIC ABILITIES—i have cheerleading practice and approximately zero time to deal with that

to be continued in the intro post :^)

⋆｡°✩ ⋆⁺｡˚⋆˙‧₊✩₊‧˙⋆˚｡⁺⋆ ✩°｡⋆ ⋆｡°✩ ⋆⁺｡˚⋆˙‧₊✩₊‧˙⋆˚｡⁺⋆ ✩°

.・゜゜・　　・゜゜・．.・゜゜・　　・゜゜・

[yyawnjun]

hi fellow theo lover, i am prompt 3 theo anon back again 🤭🤭 it's my bdayyy!!! love love love ur writing so much so i'm here to ask (beg) for a bf theo drabble, hcs, or one shot...literally anything... bf theo brainrot is eating me alive 💔

hii beautiful!! welcome back AND HAPPIEST BDAY !!!<33 nd ofc I could never say no to my fellow theos lover; please take this as small a bday gift, hope you will have a wonderful day and enjoy <3

LIKE THE ECHO OF THE WIND

1k wc ; fluff!! ; happy new yearrrr ; take this also as a manifestation for our 2025 ; truly hope u will like this, ive put all of my brainrot energy into matching the best I could theo's character; no warnings just two lovers finally confessing ; no proofreader so sorry in advance for any mistakes!

The scream from a voice you knew better than anyone else woke you from your half-sleep. It had been sudden and without a word pronounced.

“While you were sleeping I saw a shooting star!” Theo said as he turned his gaze to the sky. You two were alone lying in a large meadow on the ridge of a mountain, far away from everyone, and stargazing on New Year’s Eve. While everyone was celebrating at parties, you and Theo had preferred to spend the evening in the mountains challenging each other in a senseless competition to see who could find the most shooting stars - a bit like a wish for the resolutions of 2025.

“I was resting my eyes, and I glimpsed it too. So we’re even.” you lied.

Theo - competitive as he was - not believing your words had turned towards you and had come dangerously close, mumbling something. However, you were too busy with his lips moving to comprehend what he was saying.

You glanced back to the sky to avoid raising suspicions, but you could still feel his eyes on you.

"I like it here. It's peaceful and there's no one," you said to distract him and stop thinking.

"It's the place of my heart." he replied. If words could taste, you could have sworn that these words tasted of something sweet.

“I feel like place resonates with you.”

After this statement of yours, you felt a smile appear on his face, just as the wind rose and moved the treetops as if nature was witnessing that sudden movement of the boy’s soul.

“It resonates with me, huh?”

You nodded, and he just nodded at you back.

Now you were looking at the sky, and everything around you continued to remind you of Theo. The more you tried not to think about him, the more your mind went back to him. You tried to squint your eyes and look more carefully at the sky, but even in those constellations, you saw his face again.

However, you were still gazing up at the sky... or so you thought.

Even while you believed that your attention was still on the stars, you had actually turned to face him.

And he was still looking at you, and again your eyes met and neither of you dared to move. His eyes were now a reflection of the stars you were seeing in the sky.

Only the light of the stars sparkled on his skin, and you still managed to notice every detail of his face. His pinkish lips were slightly parted, and his dark black hair fell on his forehead.

While you were mesmerized watching him you heard his loud voice, and for the second time, you abruptly returned to the real world. It was Theo again, who was now turned towards the sky with his arm covering the blush on his face.

“What? Did you see another shooting star?”

“More or less” he answered after a few seconds of silence.

And again a gust of wind shook the treetops and sent shivers through your entire body.

“And what did you wish for?”

“I can't say it or it doesn’t come true” he answered, turning back towards you.

“Mmh that's fair.”

And after that, no one dared to say any more words, maybe because no one wanted to interrupt those moments... But as the minutes went by, your thoughts became cloudy, as though you had been drunk by an unplanned spell.

And you were more aware of your approaching closeness the more you thought about it. Your legs were touching, your entire body turned toward one other, and your faces were so close that you could almost feel his breathing. “I like being here with you” he whispered suddenly, as if it was a thought not born to be spoken. He had never been so quiet, you thought.

“Theo, what did you say? I didn't understand”

“I like” he repeated.

“ You like what?”

And he was silent again.

This time, however, you were the one who had brought about the silence. As if pushed by the wind, you reached his face and quickly kissed him. Immediately he kissed you back and came a little closer to you, keeping you together so close for a little longer.

“It was that difficult huh?” he had even dared to say after endlessly moments.

“Shut up” you answered him giggling.

“Sooo Yn you admitted that you like me?” he asked you, while your gazes remained locked and the wind grew stronger.

“I’d say you’re the one who likes me more”

“And who told you that?”

“The wind, that resonates with you”

“I like that you can hear it, and I am glad that he confessed it to you”

Your heart was beating faster, those words continued to sound so sweet and you unconsciously moved your hand to caress his face - as if you needed confirmation that he and that moment were real.

He felt your hand on his cheek and his eyes widened in surprise, but he immediately took the opportunity to take it. As if he wanted to confirm that he was there, real, with you - and you were real, with him

“You’re beautiful Yn. I think I should say it more often”

You blushed at the unexpected compliment and he took the opportunity to tease you a little more.

You struggled to keep your cool and blushed more as he drew closer. But your heart was beating so strongly that the only way to control it for a few seconds was to reconnect your lips with a quick kiss. “I like you, Theo” you whispered.

And before he even had time to answer, the fireworks started.

In the reflection of his eyes, you were able to see the thousand lights that appeared in the sky at the start of the New Year.

“I LIKE YOU YN” he ​​had to shout to overcome the deafening noise of the fireworks.

“WHAT?” you asked, pretending not to have understood.

To that he didn’t respond with words, but he approached your face and kissed you once again.

While the world celebrated the new year, that evening it was the wind that kept you company, like a force that had given the final push to two fearful lovers.

“MY LOVE, HAPPY NEW YEAR” the boy ultimately shouted, when the fires had died down.

There wasn't any need to scream, but it didn’t matter because everyone had to know.

The whisper of the wind became quieter, now it was more like an echo of the confessed words.

[bunny7567]

Day 1 - New Experiences

Characters: Rex x Jedi!ofc Lexie

Word count: 2.1k Tags/Warnings: some angst; awkward conversations; Rex tries ice cream for the first time; they're definitely not on their first date; idiots in love; mutual pining

A/n: so this is from the beginning of Chapter 14 of the I got you series, with some very slight changes. I thought it fits the prompt for the first day of the @may01st event, and also sort of works as a stand-alone.

Lexie headed to Rex’s office after receiving her next assignment. She would be gone for days – maybe even weeks – and she wanted to see him before she left. No… she needed to see him. She needed to be around his calming presence, to look into his beautiful, warm honey-coloured eyes.

They’d been avoiding each other, dancing around whatever was between them. She hated it. And she missed him – so damn much.

 Although she had told Fives only the previous week that she couldn’t act on her feelings, the urge to confess them hadn’t left her. So that evening, after leaving the Council’s chambers, Lexie walked to the base, went up to the command level… and froze outside his door.

She knew he was in his office, she could sense it, but she simply could not lift her hand up to the buzzer. What the hell do you think you’re doing? Lexie shuddered as she heard her master’s voice inside her head. However, that voice was right, she couldn’t tell him, she couldn’t go against the Code.

She was about to turn and walk away when the door suddenly slid open and Rex stopped dead in his tracks as he saw her.

“General,” he stammered, clearly surprised to find her outside his door.

“Captain,” Lexie responded too quickly.

“Is everything alright?” he asked, immediately concerned about her.

“Yeah, yeah… all fine,” she said.

The two of them just stood and looked at each other in an awkward silence for a moment, as Lexie’s mind was screaming at her to find something to say.

“I was just-”

“How are yo-”

They both started at the same time and stopped to let the other talk.

“You were saying,” Rex prompted after clearing his throat.

“N-No, you go first,” Lexie insisted.

“No, General, please.”

“Well I… I-I just haven’t seen you in a few days, so I don’t know, I just wanted to, uhh, see how you were,” she blurted out.

“I’m alright. I uhm, I just finished some risk assessments and was about to head back to my room,” Rex answered, taken aback. “Unless you need me for something?”

“Well no… I mean not exactly, only… if you’re free for the rest of the evening I thought maybe you’d want some company?” she sheepishly said. “Unless you already have plans. Which I’m sure you probably do, I’ll just let you get go-”

“I don’t have any plans,” he interrupted her nervous ramblings.

Rex wasn’t exactly sure why she seemed so anxious, but he had a suspicion. He had pretty much convinced himself during the past few weeks while she had been on her mission with Fives that the two of them had gotten together. Maybe that was what she now wanted to let him know but she wasn’t sure how he’d react. It still hurt to think about it and he was still jealous of his brother – much to his annoyance – but Rex had to accept whatever choice Lexie made. And he also didn’t want to lose her as a friend. This could be a good opportunity to show her that their friendship was alright. Even if it hurt him.

“So I uhh… I wouldn’t mind some company,” he added, rubbing the back of his neck with the hand not holding his helmet.

“Would you maybe want to go out. Just like walk around. It’s surprisingly nice outside for this time of year. The weather is nice. Really w-warm and …nice,” she spewed out, cringing at her overuse of ‘nice’.

“Yeah, that sounds nice,” Rex replied, before putting his helmet on and following after her to the lifts.

The two of them exited the building in silence, passing the First Battle Memorial, then leaving the military compound. They made some small talk after the air between them grew excruciatingly awkward, as they strolled side by side through the busy streets of Coruscant. Lexie really needed to fill the silence, so she started talking about her last mission, about Cantonica and about how tedious it was to pretend to flirt with Clovis as she tried to get him to talk about his business venture. Rex listened closely, transfixed by the sound of her voice. She could probably start listing the ingredients in their ration bars and it would still feel like the most interesting thing he’d ever heard.

“I have a new assignment,” she said after finishing her story. “I’m leaving for the Raxus system tomorrow”.

“Are you taking Echo and Fives with you again?” the Captain asked, trying to keep his voice neutral.

“Yeah, the Council thinks we make a good team. I do feel a little bad for stealing your ARCs from you,” she joked.

“They’re not my ARCs,” Rex said with a small, amused huff.

“I beg to differ. You found them, brought them into the 501st, trained them, promoted them… I’d say they’re yours,” she countered in a light tone, counting on her fingers for emphasis.

“If you say so, Lexie,” Rex chuckled, shaking his head.

Lexie stopped and looked around, trying to figure out what direction they needed to go in.  “This way,” she mumbled after she managed to orient herself.

“Where are we even going?” Rex asked. He thought they were just aimlessly wondering around but it appeared Lexie did have a destination in mind.

“There’s one place here I really like. I wanted to show it to you,” she replied.

The Captain followed after here, walking once again in silence until they arrived in Monument Plaza. He’d heard about this place but had never seen it before, so he slowed his pace, took his helmet off and looked around the large, open space, his gaze landing on the mountain peak at the center. It was definitely an impressive sight, and he could understand why Lexie liked it so much.

His eyes then moved to her and he felt a blush creep up his neck. She was stood looking at him, her head slightly tilted to a side and a kittenish smile on her face.

“Have you ever had ice cream, Captain?” she asked.

“Uhm, no. I haven’t,” he answered.

“That simply cannot do. We need to change that immediately,” she declared before walking towards one of the shops built into the plaza walls.

Rex tried to protest, insisting that she should not spend her credits for him, but she ignored him and bought two portions of Nectrose Freeze. She then walked to a bench in front of the mountain peak and sat down, placing one of the cups of ice cream in her lap, and patted the space next to her. The Captain sat in the indicated space, resting his helmet next to him. Lexie then handed him his cup of the dessert and he hesitantly took it, lifted it closer to his face and sniffed it.

“It is edible, Rex,” she laughed. “I promise. See?” She grabbed the small wooden spoon and took a bite, savouring the taste. Maker, it’d been too long since she’d had ice cream.

“Yeah, I know that,” Rex rolled his eyes.

He then followed her example, taking a small scoop with his spoon. It was sweeter than he expected, the flavour filling his mouth as the ice cream melted on his tongue. The nectrose crystals however, had a fruity taste, a little sour, a contrast that perfectly complemented the sweetens of the dessert. He immediately took another bite.

“Careful, honey. You don’t want to get a brain freeze,” Lexie chuckled, eating her ice cream a lot slower.

“It’s a lot better than I expected,” Rex explained, a little embarrassed.

“Wow, I can’t believe you thought I’d make you try something that wasn’t good,” she feigned offence. Rex rolled his eyes again, but smiled a little.

“So,” Rex started, a little unsure of what he even wanted to say, “this is your favourite place on Coruscant?”

“One of them yes,” she replied after a short pause. “The Lake level in the Temple is another. And the Botanical Gardens in the Senate District.”

“I think I’m seeing a pattern,” Rex chuckled.

“And what would that be?” she challenged, her voice soft.

“Nature,” he observed.

“I’m a simple girl,” she shrugged.

“Simple?” Rex laughed. “Yeah right.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” she asked, amused by his reaction.

“You’re anything but simple. I can barely figure you out sometimes,” Rex admitted.

“Maybe you’re just not paying enough attention,” she murmured.

Rex paused, gaping at her. She was hinting at something and he couldn’t figure out what. He wanted so much for it to be him – he wanted so much for her to return his feelings – but it couldn’t be, could it?

“What am I not paying attention to?” he asked, the words coming out before he was even aware he was speaking them.

Lexie hesitated. This could be the moment to finally confess… if only her mind would let her. But the worry was too loud, drowning out everything else. The worry about reading things wrong, about her position as a Jedi… about messing things up and ruining their friendship. And, Maker, she needed his friendship. She couldn’t lose him.

She shook her head and put on her best rehearsed smile. “Don’t worry about it, Captain. You should eat your ice cream before it turns into sludge.”

Rex frowned for just a moment, before he nodded. The two of them continued eating their dessert as Lexie told him the reason she liked to come to the plaza. She told him a little about Seccaya, about the mountains that covered the entire planet and how bittersweet it felt to come here, to look at the Umate peak, to touch the cold, hard granite and think about her home.

Rex listened closely and kept eating and Lexie tried not to stare at him as he did. It was clear he was enjoying the ice cream and she found it very endearing. He finished his dessert faster than her and placed the empty cup on the bench. Lexie looked at him again and chuckled, seeing that he had a bit of melted ice cream in the corner of his mouth.

“You have a little…” she informed him, pointing to his lips.

“Where? Here?” he asked, wiping the wrong side of his mouth.

“No, let me,” she said with a soft laugh, moving her hand without thinking.

She placed two fingers under his chin and wiped the trace of the dessert away with her thumb, letting her hand linger there. Rex’s whole body tensed under her touch and his breath caught in his throat. Her fingers were warm and soft, and the Captain had to fight the urge to lift his hand to grasp hers. Lexie noticed his reaction and quickly pulled her hand away.

“Sorry,” she mumbled.

“It’s fine.” Rex cleared his throat and avoided her gaze, feeling his heart sink.

She was just being friendly, he reminded himself, and that gesture had not meant anything to her. But for him, the feeling her soft touch on his skin, it was everything he had dreamed of for months. He suddenly remembered that she was probably with Fives and felt as if someone punched him in the gut, just like he did when he had seen them in the hallway.

“We, uhh… we should head back to base. It’s getting late. Curfew and-and all that,” he said, standing up and putting his helmet back on.

“Yeah… we… yeah, let’s go,” Lexie reluctantly agreed.

The walk back to the military compound was mostly silent and Lexie was unsure what to think. Both Echo and Fives believed that Rex had feelings for her, however she still wasn’t confident that he did. But he called you cyare. And yet he had not done a single thing that would indicate he had really meant it the entire time they were out and he had even seemed uncomfortable when she touched him. No, the ARCs were probably mistaken on this account. And you’re a fucking Jedi anyway, snap out of it.

When they got back to the barracks Rex kept his helmet on as he wished her good luck on her next mission. It felt safer like that, he didn’t have to meet her eyes directly, didn’t have to hide the sadness on his face. Lexie thanked him and wished him goodnight, and watched as he got off the lift on the barracks level. She went up to her room and tried to push every emotion deep, deep down, feeling actually grateful for the distance she was about to put between them. She skipped breakfast in the mess the next morning, met up with Echo and Fives on the landing platform afterwards, and the three of them left for their covert assignment.

[purplink8]

Naomi is one of my favorite characters so I decided to compile my thoughts on her in this post! :D

(Disclaimer: I do not particularly like the fanon version of Naomi & while I do dislike Raye, I still believe without a doubt that he cared for Naomi (enough to go along with Light when he threatened to kill his loved ones, and the first one to pop up in his head was Naomi) and had his (however misguided (by sexism ofc)) best interests at heart for her. That does not absolve him for being, frankly, really really rude + sexist to Naomi and I will forever be annoyed with him for that.

tl;dr I'm neither a fanon!Naomi stan nor a Raye apologist. Anywho-)

Before I talk about Naomi, I want you to take a look at this panel directly above the one in which she first appears.

Before Naomi's first appearance, Ryuk says "I guess women being tough in crisis goes for humans, too." This is said in reference to Yuri being unphased with the bus-hijacking and dragging our fave sexist murderer to Space Land haha.

But I think it's significant that the above quote was said by Ryuk for all women (maybe the real feminism was the Shinigami we found all along!) JUST BEFORE Naomi's first appearance.

Even before Naomi is introduced, the canon has (however jokingly (side-eyeing you Light-o)) established that women are tough in crisis. I do think that's saying something- especially when you'll see (which will be discussed in length in this post) that this statement holds true ESPECIALLY for Naomi.

But we'll come back to this later; let's move on to Naomi actual appearance in canon.

We're introduced to her as Raye's loving fiancé who is also attentive (receptive) towards him as she asks him why he's tired to which he mentions the bus-hijack.

She's quiet in noting down her observations in her head as she asks Raye for more info regarding the bus hijack:

Look at the '...' she has before asking Raye for details. We can read it as hesitation to voice her suspicions before they sound strong enough or as the pause to think it all through OR more likely as we'll see in the panels below, she perhaps hesitates due to the conditions she agreed to with Raye. The pause may also be due to her analytical mind starting to work, she has to mull over the details she's just been given before reaching to a conclusion.

She does speak out on her misgivings as she clearly cares about Raye and thinks (& correctly at that!) that he met Kira.

Only to get shut down by him. Raye is, obviously, sexist and rude here but we have to remember that Raye thinks he's doing the right thing (according to his sexist 'i have to protect her from danger' attitude anyway). He does admit that she was an excellent fbi agent but still, he's not respecting her opinions.

Now this is where my hate for Raye shines through like

"once you pop up some of my babies, that habit won't pop up anymore" ~Raye Penber, probably, i wish i was exaggerating

Raye is unbelievably dismissive of Naomi here. Not only does he not take her concerns seriously, he also follows it up with a 'joke' about directing her intelligence towards being his future wife. Now, I do believe that Naomi wanted to quit her job too but that doesn't make it okay for Raye to y'know treat Naomi like this. And Naomi (being genuinely apologetic) politely chuckles it off.

I think this brings us to an important aspect of her character: she has a sort of passive attitude. She is not that assertive imo instead preferring to be compliant and yielding. She values harmony in her relationships & avoids conflicts by being agreeable (at least with Raye).

Then Kira happens to Raye Penbar and other FBI agents. I find it interesting how these panels are placed next to each other:

These panels are juxtaposed to each other to perhaps show us that while killing the FBI agents may be like a game to Kira & L, there are real stakes involved for those related to Kira's victims- they become pawns in Kira & L's game-: Naomi being the prime example, who is shown grieving Raye's death.

She is intelligent enough to deduce that Raye was murdered by Kira.

Now instead of wallowing in her misery (remember what Ryuk said about women being tough in crisis? yeah this is what's happening here), the former FBI agent picks herself up, gathers her wits + composure, and gets ready to investigate.

We're then shown panels of Naomi travelling alone. I want you to remember that the emotional wound of losing her fiancé is still fresh & forefront in her mind (trying to catch Kira is a very close second). Even if her thoughts are not depicted (her ride to Shinjuku is deathly silent: with neither dialogue nor thoughts- meant to express how she deals with her grief- Naomi takes action and does so quietly), we get an idea of how she feels.

Alone. Torn between feeling lonely/helpless yet determined to catch the murderer who killed the man she loved. Still, she perseveres.

And she gets info from the bus conductor, that there were six passengers other than Raye during the bus-hijack. She figures that since Kira must've been someone out of those six people, Kira may be living somewhere near that bus route. It's a small lead but a lead nonetheless.

Naomi also infers that Kira is able to kill people by causes other than heart attacks too. More importantly, she is of utmost confidence that her finding IS a fact which means she wouldn't be shook off that belief any time soon. Which is really, really bad for Kira as it narrows down the list of Kira suspects considerably well.

I'm gonna focus on Naomi's POV (you'll know why later):

_____________________________________________________________

She enters the NPA building and the receptionists are being much help: saying that there's nobody on the task force here despite her appointment with them, which was made the previous day + asking her to just leave a message when she insists on meeting the task force personally.

This is important to her. Why are they being so difficult? She'd had an incredibly long day, her fiancé is dead and only she seems to have a clue of Kira's powers extend to killing people by causes other than heart attacks. She absolutely needs to tell this clue to the Task Force. If only somebody actually listened to her. (Even Raye, when he was alive, refused to do that).

Then a young guy, who introduces himself as the son of the task force Chief, comes in and talks with the receptionists about a case he had helped solve in the past. Whatever. That information does not help her in the slightest. She came here for one purpose and one purpose only: speak to the Task Force. Why are the receptionists so warm towards him while being so useless to her? And then the boy says something interesting:

He (if she heard correctly) may be able to beat L in solving the Kira case. He's definitely got her attention now. Either he's way too confident or there may be a degree of truth in his statement (well, they did just say how he helped them solve a case when he was a high schooler). Still, it's not like this guy can help her catch Kira when he's not even in the task force, right?

She's just about to mentally dismiss him when:

...he shares valuable information with her- something which the receptionists haven't (even if they had their reasons) and even better, offers to help her (he's the first person to do so ever since Raye died). He chooses to trust her (he had no reason to do that but does so anyway maybe due to the goodness of his heart? (she doesn't know- still he has helped her out a great deal already)).

It feels weird accepting his help but the boy is very polite + willing to help so she does. And offers him her sincerest thanks.

He also seems to think that Kira has greater powers than people think. That surprises her.

To think this young guy has deduced something which she had too...she chooses to confide in him a little (not so much, just a little without details, just as vague as his statement was) that that's why she's here.

The stranger tells his name. Light Yagami. And asks for hers. She's not taking any chances. Raye died because of giving his ID to someone in the bus (who, she's sure, was Kira) and while this kid seems relatively harmless, she's cautious. She has prepared for this. So she gives him an alias. Shoko Maki.

It seems she hadn't heard the end of his deductions. According to him, Kira can also control people's actions before they die- and she finally has someone intelligent enough, trustworthy enough (he trusts her AND has helped her out a lot) who is willing to listen that she cracks, offering him the final piece of the info she has puzzled out: that Kira can kill by causes other than heart attacks.

More information trickles out her (the kid, Light Yagami- she reminds herself- is surprisingly great at putting her at ease)...she tells him about her fiancé meeting Kira before his death. He's silent. When asked about it, he tells her it is due to the shock of hearing that.

Light is a patient listener, asking her details, offering his views on the matter so she doesn't mind telling him everything she has concluded thus far with utter conviction:

He's initially skeptical of course:

Still, he agrees that it's worth investigating into and that's what matters to her.

After thinking about it for a while, he informs her that he's convinced of her theory. Not only does he take her seriously, he also takes notes of the details of the incident.

Light has been as useful as a person in his position could have been and she's really grateful. She wishes to tell the task force herself so she heads back to the NPA.

He's still following her. Maybe he's doing this out of politeness? She tells him that she'll be fine on her own and thanks him for all his help. She turns. The kid approaches her again.

Only to tell her why the members of the task force were said to be absent.

Now she's suspicious. Why does this kid know so much about this investigation which ought to be kept secret from the general public? So she asks him. Only to get hit by this bombshell:

He is, if he's telling the truth, a member of the task force. Well, that explains a lot.

He tells us that all the members of the task force have been hand-picked by L.

Then she doesn't need to go back to the NPA, as she has already spoken to Light who, by his own admission, is a member of the task force which means her insights will be passed on to L.

Now that she knows that L selected Light himself, she allows herself to trust the kid enough (as she completely trusts L) to tell him that she worked with L on a case 2 years ago when she was in the FBI.

Naomi reveals that she'd been reluctant to trust the police and even the task force compared to L who has her complete trust (her plan was to ask them to let her speak to L directly, i.e., she didn't even want the task force to know her insights). Light asks her then why did she tell him something which should've been for L's ears only.

She gives him her reason.

She feels that Light & L are similar somehow (I think it's her gut feeling) and since she trusts L, she also, kind of, trusts this kid as he reminds him of L.

Then, something crazy happens. He asks her if she would like to join the investigation... She is flabbergasted, to say the least. She had come thinking that she'd be lucky if she got to talk to L directly but joining the task force herself?

Still, she has to admit the kid is nothing if not convincing. She feels indecisive. She doesn't know what to do; she's been feeling lost since Raye died. They were in Japan for a short while only. Hell, they were going to get married & get settled permanently in the USA. And now none of it was possible.

Raye was dead. She had to accept that.

What should she do?

But when the kid brings up how she's still a young beautiful woman for this dangerous investigation, she finds her doubts shattering and her resolve hardening. She realizes that she has gotten a new purpose now.

With her fiancé gone, she's got nothing left to lose anymore. Getting Kira (who was responsible for his death) is the only thing that matters to her anymore, as she says in her outburst. She'd do anything, regardless of risks to her life, to make sure that Kira is caught.

She's very determined now to join the investigation and requests Light for the same. He asks her some proof of her identification.

She hesitates, but feels this can't be helped: she reasons to herself, as she apologizes for giving out a fake name earlier. He praises her carefulness. And she gives him her driving license. He asks her some details about the time she was in the FBI. And keeps glancing at his watch strangely often enough to prompt her to ask him why:

He, once again, looks down at his watch as he replies.

He is Kira.

Light Yagami is Kira.

She is horrified, with realization dawning at her eyes that she has already given him her real name, and is filled with dread of what is to come.

And just an instant later, she turns sharply (not unlike clockwork) away from him. She feels as if she's in a trance. He is speaking something to her.

What's the matter?

An answer comes unbidden to her lips, as if that's what she's been supposed to say all along, like she has practiced this chat with him before,

"There's something I have to do."

The words feel foreign to her, and yet she feels that that's what she was destined to say anyway.

Didn't you want to talk to my father?

The words are a blur as she replies mindlessly.

"No. I have nothing to say to him."

_____________________________________________________________

...well, that. was. Dark.

No, really, it's so fucked up how Light taunts Naomi in her final moments that's why I hate him during this scene.

But anyway, I wrote those 1.4k words talking from only Naomi's POV so that we may understand why she allows herself to trust Light.

I think the argument of her trusting Light "that easily" is uh... debatable? If you pay attention to the plot, it's not that hard to believe that Naomi comes eventually to trust Light.

I think people take this panel at its face value...

...which is just Light self-congratulating himself AFTER he got Naomi's real name (only to think 'that was a close call...' in the next panel itself) like? You guys, don't fall into his trap thinking that Naomi trusted him way too easily.

This guy cognitive-restructures his way out of every setback. Just because Light wants to convince himself that it was that easy to overcome this setback of a woman, doesn't mean you have to be fooled into thinking the same as Light too. This is just his hindsight-bias talking.

We know how hard it was for him to figure out a way to get Naomi's real name after she gave him an alias (while being as cool as a cucumber too). Do not forget that before you chide Naomi for being too naive (yes she IS a little naive (y'know the trusting L a 100 percent? after working with him through a computer screen?) but we shouldn't blame her for giving Light her real name). She was being careful all along.

Until Light, with his genius social skills (remember he's exceedingly polite & helpful + just. a. Kid in Naomi's eyes), focused all his intelligence to achieve his goal of getting Naomi reveal her real name and succeeded as he's an excellent manipulator and got luck on his side while Naomi's degree of luck is exceedingly low.

Also remember that Naomi is freshly grief-stricken and this polite kid is the first one to stop and listen to her (+ agree with her respectfully). And then too she gave him an alias. But was forced to give out her real name because the situation called for it.

(I don't put much stock in htr13 stats but I think we can safely conclude that it's correct about Naomi lack of good luck. Also, she dislikes stalkers and Raye stalked Light (yes he was just doing his job but still you have to admit it's a lil funny that she was gonna marry a stalker- ok I'm done now with the htr13 discussion)). Moving on!

After Naomi's death (she was only 28 at that time), L accepts the phone call from her parents reporting her as missing and comes to know that she's Raye Penber's fiancé. L finds her name familiar and has Watari look her up, to find that she arrested the preparator of the LABB case, which reminds him that he worked with her on that case.

When Aizawa & Matsuda suggest that she may have killed herself after hearing news about her fiancé, L disagrees with them saying that the Naomi Misora he knew had great inner strength and was an excellent FBI agent. He thinks that she's try to go after Kira (and he's not wrong).

And that's all the info about her that the manga canon offers us.

In conclusion, I think Naomi is very intelligent yet a little gullible/trusting of people (she chooses to believe in the good of the people methinks), polite, quiet, introverted, a tad passive, and tremendously emotionally tough (seriously tho, she's in grief sure, and that makes her vulnerable to Light's tactics to get her to trust him & all that but it takes guts to go after a killer who can kill just by knowing your name & face just after he killed your future husband).

Canon!Naomi is far more complex than the girlbossified fanon version of her and I love her <3