#unless it's necessary (like when he's looking for a particular key and questions a guy about it)

[mountmortar]

literally i love red in gsc soooo much he is just the former kid champion who went missing for literal YEARS because he went to live on top of a mountain without telling anyone and he is still wearing the same weirdly-high-collared vest + black shirt + pants tucked into shoes combo that he was when he went to live up there because he either does hella laundry or no laundry and he’s literally just chilling and training and then some fucking kid appears and because he has absolutely no social skills anymore because he denounced society like some sort of preteen pokémon monk his first thought is NOT saying hello or anything like that. it’s Throw My Pokémon At Them! he’s not even wearing a COAT and he’s on top of a fucking MOUNTAIN and it’s not like he fucking keeps charizard out of its ball. how is he not dead. absolutely feral mountain boy. he’s my baby

[fandom-eclectics]

Ahh idk maybe you could write about one of the boys with an s/o from another school, who's bullied and made fun of when the kids in their figure out that they're "supposedly dating" someone? And maybe after class ends the two meet at the front and everyone realizes that everything was actually true lol

Eeek, such an amazing idea!! Ty ty for blessing me with your geniusness! Funny things, I actually have a few classmates who would do this so this will definitely come from the heart! I hope you like it! Have a wonderful rest of your day/night!

|| "𝕋𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖'𝕤 𝕟𝕠 𝕨𝕒𝕪" ||

Characters: Deku and Shinsou

Status: Not Proofread

Reader: nothing specific mentioned

Type: ineshots// angst if you squint with a smidge of fluff at the end

Warnings: low key bullying

A/n: let’s play the awesome game called “how long can Kat last before she gets too emotional and goes all out with this cause she has classmates who would 100% do this to her”

✎ Deku had been your boyfriend for two years now and you wouldn’t wish it any other way. Of course, you didn’t tell anyone besides your parents/guardians about it because you only felt it right they know. Also, you didn’t want to draw too much attention to him, since you knew he had fangirls that would be all over him if they knew he had a s/o. So, imagine your face when you leave your phone on your desk to go grab a piece of paper the teacher wanted you to get off their desk and you come back to one of the popular girls making googly eyes at your phone.

“Y/n! Where’d you get this picture? I haven’t seen it around yet!” She asked, turning your phone around and pointing at your Lock Screen

If it wouldn’t have been such a terrifying situation you would have laughed at the adorable picture of your boyfriend. He was holding a stuffed bunny you had gotten him, and wearing some bunny ears he had found at a store.

“Oh, I-.” You started, but where cut off by the girl. You thought her name was Sakura but you weren’t positive.

“Oh my gosh, are you on one of those like secret discord’s that hack into his camera roll!” Sakura questioned, adding a gasp at the end.

“Well….no….I’m not that big of a fan.” You say, adding a nervous laugh at the end.

You didn’t like this situation, not in the slightest. You wanted her to put your phone down and to leave you alone. No, it’s not like your a “not like other girls” type of person where you like to be “alone” so you could “daydream”. These particular girls just liked to get in everyone’s business, and you didn’t want them in your’s unless necessary. Though you had friends, they just didn’t go to this school.

“Sakura, what are you doing over there?” Her friend, Yui called from across the room.

“Yui, you have to see this picture y/n has of Deku, it’s so cute!” Sakura swuealed.

Yui got up from her seat and came to look over Sakura shoulder at your phone. Her expression was one of suprise as she looked at the photo.

“That’s the guy who almost won the sports festival! He was against that other dude….Shoto I think was his name. They’re both super hot.” Yui said

“I know right! I wonder if they are dating anyone.” Sakura speculated.

“Well…actually…” You started, kind of getting a tad bit upset that they where talking about your boyfriend like that. Though, I mean, they didn’t know you two where dating, so you couldn’t get too mad.

“I mean, but, in reality that Deku kid is so awkward. It’s like he can’t even keep a good conversation. But, I mean, he’s hot and popular.” Sakura said.

“I know, I know. That Todoroki kid has that ugly scar on his face. It’s a shame, he’s be perfect if it weren’t for that. And, his personality could use a bit of work, he seems so bland.” Yui agreed

“Hey, they are both wonderful people. Sure, Izu might have trouble keeping conversation with new people, but everyone has their fears. And Shoto’s great just the way he is.” You interjected, the slightest bit of defensiveness coming into your voice.

They both turned around to look at you and just stared at you for a second. You wondered what was going on, why where they staring? I mean yeah, you stood up for the two boys but that wasn’t new, a lot of people had comeback’s for the popular girls when they would say things. Then, it hit you, you had called them by their nicknames, not their formal hero names.

“Izu? Awe, that’s so adorable. Almost sounds like you know him personally y/n. You must be reading too much fanfic.” Sakura commented

“And Shoto, are you on a first name basis with him too. Please, I’m sure you’ve never even been in the same room as him.” Yui continued on the trail of insults Sakura had started

“Well actually, me and Deku have been dating for about two years now. As for Shoto, he’s a really good friend, and I couldn’t sit here and let you insult them.” You blurted out, your emotions of anger starting to take over.

There was a moment of silence where the two girls just sat in their seats and looked at you. Sakura had long ago, without you noticing, sat your phone back on your desk. You picked it up quickly in the awkward silence. Though, the silence was broken by hysterical laughter coming from the two girls.

“Oh y/n, you don’t actually believe you and Deku are dating so you? He’s so strong and popular, and your so…..normal and bland.” Sakura stated, recovering from her fit of laughter.

“Really, you should hear yourself. You sound so stupid y/n. You don’t have to lie to get attention you know.” Yui added

“I’m not lying, I’m being serious.” You insisted

As if on cue your phone rang and you turned it over in your hands to see who it was. However, before you got the chance to see Sakura snatched it out of your hands.

“You’ve got to be kidding me. Y/n, this is just embarrassing. You really downloaded one of those fake apps so it would look like Deku was calling you. That’s pathetic.” Sakura laughed, pressing the hang up button.

She lightly goosed your phone, it landing on your desk with a small thud. You were fed up with this, why would these two girls care so much? Why did they have to mess with you of all people.

As the bell finally rang, you got up from your seat and took your things. As you walked out of the building, Sakura and Yui behind you laughing and talking loudly about the events that had just happened, you spotted someone.

A certain green haired boy was standing outside the building waiting patiently for you. Seeing his big green eyes and content smile as he saw you made your mood instantly clear. Though, before you could run to him and give him a hug, you where shoved away by Sakura, followed by Yui.

“Oh my gosh! It can’t be! Is that you Deku!” Sakura squealed running up to your boyfriend.

“Oh, uh, hi?”Deku greeted nervously, slowly backing away from the over excited fangirl.

“What are you doing here? Coming to see us?” Yui asked innocently, batting her eyelashes.

Izuku let out a nervous laugh then said

“I’m actually here to uhm, pick up y/n. We have a date this afternoon.I tried calling her but she must have been in class because the call got declined” He told them, letting slight blush and a small smile grace his face.

You recovered from the shove and watched the whole thing go down. The funniest part being the surprised looks on Sakura and Yui’s faces when they discovered you were right.

You walked up beside Izuku and gave him a kiss on the cheek. He looked at you and smiled a soft smile. Sakura and Yui still standing there in disbelief.

“There is no way your dating this dork!” Yui exclaimed

“Y/n’s not a dork. Well, I mean she can be but not in a negative way. “ He defended you, grasping your hand in his.

“Ugh, whatever, so your dating big deal.

Your just gonna leave her anyways right?” Sakura interjected

“I would never leave y/n!” Deku insisted

You felt your cheeks slowly heat up at the way he was defending you. You promised yourself to thank him a million times over later for his words.

“If you’ll excuse us, we’ll be leaving now.” You said, turning around and tugging on Izu’s hand, as an indication to follow. Leaving a stunned Sakura and Yui in the dust.

✎ Shinsou “I have passed out your tests, you may review them during the last ten minutes of class.” The teachers voice rang throughout the classroom. Hina, a girl who was adored by all, passed the dwindling stack of paper towards you. After taking your test off the top, you turned and passed it to Himari, Hina best friend.

Sitting in between the two quote on quote “populist girls” was the most annoying thing ever known to man. No, you did not claim to be “one of the boys” or “not like other girls”. But if you had to listen to “I only got 1 hour of sleep last night” or “look, I wore a black choker, I’m so emo.” One more time, you were gonna punch someone.

No, you weren’t a gatekeeper, you just didn’t like that they made fun of people who actually enjoyed and embraced the emo aesthetic, but yet they wanted to be “so cool and emo” five seconds later. It didn’t make any sense.

You looked down at your test, smiling slightly at the 93 that was in red pen at the top of the paper. You had studied so hard, pulling many all nighters with your boyfriend. He didn’t even go to the same school as you, but he was still honored to help you study. He was an insomniac after all. So, it wasn’t like he wasn’t already up anyways.

You blinked, stifling a yawn as you read through your test. You hadn’t slept well at all last night, nervous about the test you had today. You also hadn’t had your morning coffee, you woke up late and where in too much in a rush to have time to fix it.

The classroom was alive with chatter and laughing from all the other students, especially Hina and Himari.

“Can you believe that guy at the sports festival?” Himari said.

“I know right, he was so hot with his purple hair and mysterious looks.” Hina agreed

“And his quirk! So villainous and attractive!” Himari added

You hated that since you where in the middle of them that they would just completely act like you weren’t there. They could be like “Hey, do you know the guy we are talking about?” So you could be like, “Yeah, he’s my boyfriend. Now pleas respectfully shut it.”

“His quirk’s just brainwashing, it’s not villainous. It’s actually really helpful and cool.” You interjected.

The two girls looked at you, stunned to see you actually put yourself in their conversation for once.

“Yeah right. Brainwashing is such a villain move. But, he’d make a super attractive villain. If I where to get kidnapped, I’d definitely want it to be by him.” Himari said.

“Please, if anyone’s gonna be a villain here, it’s gonna be y/n. Always wearing dark colors and baggy clothing. “ Hina joked

“So true, and then y/n will be single for the rest of their life. Well, I mean, no matter if their a villian or not.” Himari laughed at her own insult.

“Hey, I’ll have you two know I have a boyfriend. Unlike you guys who talk to 17 different guys on snap and can’t get a single date planned out.” You burst out, mad at them for poking fun at you.

“Pleas, y/n, I have SO many more guts after me than you do. Please, if me and Shinsou ever met, we would click right away. Dream couple I’d say.” Himari explained

“Who’s your boyfriend anyways? Is he some boy you read about in one of your books?” Hina taunted

“Actually, my boyfriend, is Hitoshi Shinsou.” You stated firmly.

The two girls gasped and then had a moment of silence. They both looked at each other, then looked back at you, then looked at each other again, as if they could read each other’s minds through their looks.

“That’s….nice y/n…” Hina said with a very fake tone of happiness

“There is no way this dork and that hottie are dating.” I caught Himari mouthing to Hina.

“I know right, she’s so….basic and he’s so…gorgeous.” Hina mouthed back.

As the bell rang you got up immediately and grabbed your things. Not bothering to tell Himari and Hina that you could read lips. Walking to the outside of the building, You spotted Hitoshi, waiting whilst looking at his phone.

You rushed over to him and gave him a tight hug, the joy of passing your test hitting you again. Breathing his lavender scent befor you pulled away.

“Did you get my message?” He asked with a small smile.

“Oh, sorry. Haven’t checked my phone.” You say, pulling your phone out of your pocket to look at said message.

Hey, if it’s okay Iwas gonna pick you up for coffee this afternoon after you get out of school. My treat, as a reward for all the work and effort you put into your test. I’m sure you passed with flying colors. Love you!

You smiled at the message he had sent you, looking back up into his purple eyes.

“Of course I’ll go get coffee with you!” You agreed to the offer.

“Y/n?! Is that you? With a boy?” Hina exclaimed, running up to you, Himari not far behind

“Are these your…uh…friends?” Hitoshi asked you as you moved to stand beside him.

“Oh, no, we aren’t friends with y/n.” Himari corrected

“We don’t prefer hanging out with dorks.” Hina said

“Ah, I see.” Hitoshi said, rolling his eyes.

“So, why are you dating her? Is it cause you feel sorry for her?” Himari asked

“I’m dating Y/n because she’s a wonderful dork to hang around and much better than girls like you who feel the need to insult people. Now, if you’ll excuse us, we’ll be going now.” Hitoshi Said, turning around with your hand in his, and leading the way to the coffee place.

You owed him a kiss and a lot of thank you’d for his kind words.

Hope you have a good day/night!

You are so loved! <3

[iwriteficsandmore]

A Little Piece of You

Oh shit, haha! Forgot to put a preview here. Hi! I’m alive! Have been busy writing for my other WIPs but wanted to get this out here bc I love you guys and also this was a cute af soulmate au. Thanks to @insanemarshmallow for the wonderful explanation of this chibi soulmate AU! Also god bless the settphel pairing of league of legends. It gave me the right amount of inspiration for a cute and angtsy oneshot :D

For a child, it's a wondrous thought the one of knowing you would one day find a soulmate. Even more so when you constantly saw it everywhere you went. People going about their lives with cute tiny versions of that one person that belonged with them and whom they were to spend the rest of their lives with. It was a fairytale on its own. One that became yours to live once you turned eighteen and that little piece of them came to you. It was a strange thing to see it happen, but just as great as you thought it'd be when a tiny version of your soulmate hatched from its egg. It had been born alongside you, a reminder that you, too, had someone waiting for you once you grew. You took care of that egg when young knowing how precious it was after hearing so many stories of happily ever afters. And now you finally had it. Alive. 

The first thing that came out of the shell when it broke were red feathers. They poked out somewhat matted and ruffled as it finally emerged and huge amber eyes met yours. His tiny hands ruffled his dark blonde hair back. Chills ran down him as he shook himself out of his stupor and traveled from his head all the way to his toes and tiny wings, sprouting at the end like a blown-up balloon. He was adorable. And the first and only thing he said was his name: Keigo. Finally, you had your very own soulmate! 

But...the experience of having a soulmate was tiring to say the least. 

You didn't know if it was just Keigo, but taking care of this particular red bird was a full-time job. Quirks were already a problem to deal with in and of themselves. But that the small part of your soulmate's soul could readily use those wings of his to fly all around your house was a bigger problem in itself. When you got him at first you thought about keeping him in a cage whenever you had to go out and couldn't take him with you. The first few times, though, you noted how sad he was when you came home. The way he clung to you every time you let him out and how those massive tears welled up in his eyes broke you inside. You threw that cage away after a week of having it. Having no place to keep him however meant that you needed to teach him to be careful. If Keigo wanted to be free, he needed to be careful lest he be taken away or hurt. Little Keigo didn't take that lesson fully to heart until after a little incident with a cat. After that, he would stay close to you whenever you took him outside with you. It took almost a full year to get used to him, but once you did, it was like you two had been together for your whole life. 

Little Keigo was fun to be around with, always enjoying the things you did with him. His taste for chicken got you to learn plenty of new recipes. He slept soundly with you, his little hands always cradling your thumb when he slept in the palm of your hand. And those feathers. You kind of figured what his Quirk was simply by the way he would control all those feathers on his crimson wings. Thing was that he would try to help you at times with things a little too heavy for him which was both worrying and sweet in equal measures. 

Sadly not everything was nice. Not long after he was born did you notice that he began showing signs of pain. Always different places but very visibly hurting. Like someone was hitting or hurting him somehow. You knew the wounds wouldn't show, but seeing him always tired and in pain for days on end would cause your heart to ache to no end. There were also times when his feathers would simply fall with no explanation. It wasn't him controlling them either. They would simply fall and turn a dark brown like petals falling from flowers. And in a way, it was, because when that happened, it would take several days for new ones to grow. Although you were saddened that he was grumpy and glum from being unable to fly, a part of you was also glad. Only when his feathers fell like that did he ever seem to take any breaks and rest. 

'It's your soulmate,' your mother said when you asked her. 'He's reacting to the soul bond between them. There's nothing you can do except wait it out with him.'

And it's exactly what you did. You never questioned it nor chastised him. You knew it wouldn't serve any purpose. Instead, you took care that Keigo wouldn't suffer anymore from your end than his counterpart was already going through. It still hurt though, seeing him hurting. But what stung your heart the most was the way that sometimes tears would just spring from him out of the blue. It happened during the middle of the night almost always and when that crying woke you up, it tore at your heart that you could do nothing more than hold him close and soothe that tiny part of his soul. 

A couple more years went by like that—sometimes painfully, most rather joyfully—until you figured it out. 

It was during dinnertime. Now that you were out of home and living by yourselves in a little apartment close to campus, it was usually spent doing exactly that, eating. But that particular day, Keigo wanted to watch TV. It's not something you did often. You were what they called a country bumpkin through and through. Though you had the resources, you seldom were on the web unless necessary for a task. You had a TV when you lived with your folks but aside from watching cartoons every now and then you never really paid it any attention. The one you had in your tiny apartment was one that had been left behind by the previous tenant. Just a small box with antennas that worked only when it wanted. Complying with his request, you somehow made it work, having it close enough for him to watch while you both ate. And it was while chewing through a serving of yakitori, you saw him.

Keigo. A much, much bigger version. And he was saving people and beating villains on network television. To say you almost choked to death would be an understatement. Keigo—your cute, little Keigo—was the Number Three Hero in all of Japan. The hero known as Hawks. Disbelief was what struck you first and hard. But the more your little Keigo, that little piece of him that resembled the hero to a T, pointed at the flickering screen with a larger than life smile on his face, the more you knew there was no denying the truth. But how? How had you missed such a huge thing for so long? Sure your upbringing explained it a bit. That your parents weren't big hero fans in general also added to it. But that could only hide everything for a little while. Maybe the first year. But for the last four?

God, you seriously needed to see an eye doctor from how damn blind you were. 

You were still baffled as could be when you and Kei went out to the convenience store if only to get your mind out of things. But there was no time for you to space out when, out of the blue, Keigo suddenly perked up and flew away from his perch on your shoulder. Utterly freaking out when it was this late at night, you chased after the fast little pigeon, turning corner after corner and getting more lost the longer you did. You dodged some random people who were on their late night stroll or going back home from work apologizing all the way as you chased after that little red fluff of feathers as quick as you could. Finally, when he was getting too far, you shouted his name in an attempt to get him to slow down. He turned a corner, you did too—and crashed right into someone.

A hand firmly grasped your arm to stop you from falling back almost instantly. You hurriedly apologized not wanting to lose Keigo. But when the person spoke up, you froze in your tracks.

"Y/n?"

Almost instantly, your head snapped upward and met amber eyes. Rather familiar ones at that with those delineations on those eyes. The name spilled from little lips almost instantly without you even noticing.  

"Keigo?"

A soft glow took both of your attentions and made you face to the side were a couple of little things were floating in midair. It was your little Keigo and in his arms...a tiny version of you. Both were giddily giggling as he spun them in midair with his wings. The glow that caught your sight had been the one they were emanating as they danced. A glow that, like you'd been told by your mother long ago, meant that you and your soulmate had finally found one another and were truly bonded. Out of breath as you were, it took you a second to finally turn back to the man before you. 'Keigo,' you reminded yourself. Before you could say anything, he let out a hearty laughter that reached his eyes as he took off the baseball cap he had on letting windswept blonde tresses fall over his face. Curious how on him it was a rather handsome look instead of cute. 

"Who would've thought, huh?" As he laughed again, he reached out his hand to the two tiny versions of yourselves. Your little Keigo brought themselves back to the palm of his hand, the two holding hands and bumping their foreheads against each other like little doves. "Y'know, I always thought the little you was cute. Never thought you'd be this lovely in real life."

"T-Thank you." Dumb, yes, but you had no idea what else to say. Your brain was fried after all these surprises in less than 24 hours! The No.3 hero—your soulmate—was before you, and it was far more than you could take at the moment. When you noticed him staring, it finally brought back some of that notorious self-consciousness of yours as you fidgeted in your own shoes. "S-Sorry! It's a bit of a shock to find you, well, here. Now. And god, I can't believe this is happening now when I just found out about you."

Those amber eyes grew a bit quizzical at her statement. "What do you mean?" You were embarrassed to admit that you barely had put two and two together about his identity which got another laugh from him. "Honestly, not surprising." He reached up to ruffle the little you's head lovingly as a tender smile came to his face. "You never liked watching TV or playing with my phone. I always carry a book with me because you like to read so much. I never thought it'd take this long to find each other."

"How long have you been a hero?" you asked, curious.

"Since I was eighteen."

Oh. That explained so much. Yet nothing at all at the same time. Wanting to start things again, you cleared your throat and stood in front of him as your little Keigo returned to your side, sitting on your shoulder with a proud grin. "H-How about we start again? I'm y/n, it's nice to meet you, Kiego-san."

Keigo chuckled as the little you returned to the safety of his shirt pocket, peeking out from under the flap with as wide a smile as his. "It's nice to meet you, too, y/n."

[sweetwritertanya]

The Most Memorable Halloween

A/N: HAPPY HALLOWEEN! Here it is, my last story for this special month, the thirteenth story I promised you guys! And… it’s a OT7 fanfic! I usually prefer to write only for one member at a time, but for this story I wanted something special so I included all of them. The relationship with the reader can be read however you like, be it romantic, platonic or just as a friend! Up to you! Anyway, I hope you all enjoyed this series and that you like this story for the finale. Love you guys and let me know what you think!

Summary: You take all the members of BTS to go out camping during the Halloween weekend. Just the eight of you. What could possibly go wrong?

Warnings: HORROR! But not quite, just a spooky idea I had and wanted to share! Hope you all like it!

Word Count: 4769

There was a particular difficult issue that you always knew would come up when you first got to know the seven boys of BTS. Getting close to them, befriend them, caring for them would end up being incredibly frustrating during special days, like birthdays or Christmas or Valentine’s Day. And the reason why was simple: they were rich and already had any and everything you could envision them wanting for themselves.

Coming up with gift ideas became so stressful to you, that the boys had to put on an intervention one day and make you promise that you would never buy any of them a present ever again. So, since then, special days were celebrated with kind words and long messages to each other, lots of food and drinks if you could all be together and an overall good time in each other’s company.

And yet, when a friend of yours got a job as park ranger at a beautiful national park with amazing views, you got an idea. That particular park was closed down as they were redoing some of the roads and adding trails for hikers, being safer to just close off access to any pedestrians or campers for the month of October. So, if your friend could get you and the boys into the park, no one would be there to recognize them or bother them. And they had the weekend of Halloween off just in time.

It took a bit of persuading, but it’s not something Taffy hadn’t done before for her friend’s or something you had done for her back in the day. It would be just for the weekend, when no one would be working in construction either way, and she would be at the station in case anything went wrong.

In your eyes, it was the perfect gift you could give them. The boys liked camping, but they only ever did it with a bunch of cameras, never really just by themselves. They have been talking about a trip like this for months. And you could offer them just that.

“Have a good stay up there, babe” Taffy’s voice came in through the walkie talkie she gave you as you met her at the station to come in.

“Thanks, I owe you big time, queen” you radio back at her, a smile on your lips as you look out the van’s window while you continue up the path.

“Yeah, you do. Just watch out for wildlife and new forks in the roads. They haven’t put up the new signs yet” she warns.

“Will do. See you tomorrow.”

With that you decide to keep the walkie in your backpack before you ended up losing it.

“I still can’t believe we are actually doing this!” an excited Taehyung next to you says, a boxy smile and sparkling eyes thrown at you.

“It’s going to be fun. We’ll put up the tents, make a fire and eat some s’mores…” Hoseok chips in, sitting across the table from you with that usual cheery smile of his. “We’ll drink some beers and dance under the stars!”

“Yeah, I don’t know about the smores” Yoongi warns, on the other side of the moving van, body leaning against the window on his side, but looking your way. “We didn’t buy any marshmallows, so unless you packed some, no can do.”

“What?!” Hoseok turns around in his seat to talk to Namjoon, who was currently on the passenger side upfront, next to a driving Jungkook. “Say, Namjoon, did you buy the marshmallows like I asked?”

“Hum? What?” He does his best to turn around in his seat and look at us, but you can only see half of his square jaw and one of his slim eyes as he stretches, short hair covered by a cap.

“The s’mores for tonight” Hoseok persists.

“Oh, crap. Sorry, totally forgot about it!” Hoseok sighs in disappointment, and Namjoon feels guilty about it. “Should I go back and buy some?”

“No, of course not. It’s okay, another time we’ll have some” Hoseok remains positive and smiles brightly again, much to the leader’s relief.

“Yeah, this won’t be the last time we go camping, surely” Jimin, sitting next to Hoseok across from you and Taehyung, comforts him although he didn’t seem to need it any longer. “If I remember next time, I’ll buy you some myself, hyung.”

“How’s it going, JK? Is it much longer?” Jin yells as he leans to try and see the driver from his seat across from Yoongi.

“What?” Jungkook asks back, turning his head towards us slightly but keeping his eyes on the road and hands steady on the wheel.

“How much longer?” Jin repeats.

“The last sign I saw said two miles to the camping ground” he answered.

“Okay, good job!” Jin compliments the youngest.

Soon enough you arrived at the camping site, some bathroom facilities nearby that your friend gave you the keys to use as well some wooden tables and benches. There were tall colorful trees surrounding the clearing where you would all be staying tonight, with a beautiful view to the peak of the mountain, high on the sky, so much further away.

The boys all jump out of the van even before Jungkook managed to shut the engine off, screaming and stretching their legs as they walk outside into the grass and fresh air. Jin and Namjoon both ask you for the keys to the bathroom since they had to go for a while, only for Taehyung to steal them out of your hands and go first, with a shouting angry Jin and an annoyed resigned Namjoon following after.

You help Yoongi and Hoseok taking out all the necessaries in terms of food preparing, while Jimin and Jungkook tried to set the two tents up. When the rest of the members joined, things picked up quickly and you, Jin and Yoongi got a station ready for cooking while the rest of them took care of everything else.

It was early afternoon when you all arrived, but the night was commencing by the time you all sat down to eat. The hours felt like minutes, not a moment passing by in boredom with these boys around. Be it Jin telling you his silly jokes as he sliced the ingredients next to you, Yoongi asking you to taste every dish he prepared multiple times to know if it was good, Namjoon trying his best to help only to look at you with guilty eyes as he holds in his hands a broken part of the chair he and Hoseok were assembling. Hobi laughing about it in disbelief with you. The three younger members all struggling to put up the tents at first, calling you to help them but you only end up stuck under the fabric of the tent when they let it fall on you.

Not a dull moment with them. And so, hours went by like minutes.

By the end of dinner, you are all sited in chairs around the fireplace – Namjoon siting on one that was missing an arm, since he broke it – all watching the starry sky in comfortable silent, interrupted occasionally by a remark or two.

“Thank you for bringing us out here, Y/N. You’re the sweetest” Jimin murmurs in a chair next to you, his hands moving from his lap to brush at the skin of your fluffy arm in a gentle manner.

“Oh, you are welcome, ChimChim. Anything for you guys” you assure him, patting his hand that stays placed on top of your wrist.

“I didn’t think we’d ever get to be out and about like this ever again, just us without cameras, without causing trouble” Yoongi confesses, with a bit of a slur and his accent coming out due to the few beers he had to drink.

“Yeah, me neither. It’s all thanks to you, sweetheart” Namjoon agrees, throwing you a dimpled smile that had you smiling right back at him.

“Guys, please, stop it” you say as you grow a bit embarrassed and uncomfortable.

“Ohh, I think she is blushing! Look at Y/N’s cute chubby cheeks going red!” Taehyung points out, a long index finger pointing playfully your way, a mischievous look in his eyes.

“Maybe the beer is getting to her head only now” Jin proposes in a chuckle, leaning forward to look at you with puffy lips tugging up.

“Shut up! It was only one beer, how lightweight to you think I am?” you try and defend yourself.

“Pretty lightweight if I recall from that night at the karaoke…” Jungkook chips in.

Knowing exactly the night he was referring to, and mortified that he would spill all the embarrassing bits to everyone, you end up taking your slipper and throwing at him. But he just catches it and giggles, throwing it back at you with measured strength.  

“Wait, guys, shush!” Hoseok suddenly gasps from the opposite side from you, turning in his chair to look at the woods behind him. “Did… Did anyone hear that?”

“Is your mind already playing tricks on you, hyung?” Jimin questions.

“No, no, I heard something. Like a branch snapping” Hoseok persists, on edge. “A-Are there bears in this mountain or something?”

“You hear a branch cracking and your first thought goes immediately to bear?” Yoongi wonders, not sounding amused. “How about a rabbit, a fox or even a coyote before you think of something like a bear?”

Yoongi did have a point, and nobody heard anything except for Hoseok, but seeing how concern he was, you decide to appease him.

“I’ll call Taffy and ask her about what wildlife we are dealing with, okay, Hobi?”

“Thanks, Y/N, you’re a real angel. Unlike you guys!” He pouts at the rest of the group after throwing you an appreciative look of relief.

“Hey, Taffy, you there?” you say into the walkie-talkie you took out of your bag.

It takes her a minute or two, but she does respond.

“Hello there, gang. What’s up? Already bored?” she jokes.

“Nothing like that. Just wandering, what kind of animals are there in the mountain? We won’t be seeing any bears or anything like that, right?”

“Oh, we had some bears alright” she says through the static and Hoseok yelps while the rest of them widen their eyes at the walkie in your hands. You heart skips a bit in unexpected fright, but then she continues. “But since we are closed, there won’t be any large hairy gay men around any time soon, sorry to disappoint!”

A collective sigh of relief and a chuckle or two are heard around the fireplace and you pursue your lips as you close your eyes, imagining just smacking the back of her head if she was there with you for scaring you like that.

“Very funny, thanks for that” you sarcastically reply.

“No problem, anytime. But yeah, there’s only like foxes and wild cats to watch out for in here.”

“Good to know, we’ll be careful.”

“I see the smoke. You guys around a fireplace?”

“Yeah, we finished eating and we’re just relaxing before hitting the sack. Don’t worry, we’ll set it out before going to sleep” you promise her.

“Alright. Make sure the nine of you cuddle up for warmth, it will be cold tonight” she teases.

You know she is trying to tease and embarrass you, but you frown at what she says with a strange feeling instead. The boys don’t seem to pay it much attention apart from Namjoon and Jungkook, who look at you frowning as well.

“You mean eight. There is eight of us, me and the seven guys” you correct her.

The static goes silent for longer than it should and you realize that you have a bad feeling. Hoseok must have sensed it, cause his expression seems to mimic yours.

“She must have just counted wrong” Namjoon tries to calm you down.

“Hey” Taffy’s voice returns from the walkie and you don’t even realize you are now leaning in the chair, holding the device in front of you for everyone to hear it. “You guys all went down to the fountain to gather water, didn’t you?”

It was Jin who answered, a bit more serious now than he was before.

“Yeah, the buckets would be heavy to carry back to the camping site so we all went to help.”

“There are cameras every ten miles up the path and I saw you in one of them” she explains. “I’m looking at the recording right now and I count nine people walking by.”

A chill runs up your spine and your throat closes in on itself as you feel nauseated. This was not right; something was not right.

“Y/N, get everyone out. Come back to the station, there is someone else in the park!” your friend’s voice commands with assertiveness.

“OH MY GOD! I knew it, I knew it! There is A KILLER in here!” Hoseok starts to panic and, as much as you feel on the verge of terror yourself, you try to remain calm the best you can.

“Hobi, calm down” you say, running to him and placing your hands on his arms, rubbing them up and down through the sweater he had to try and keep him steady.

“Everyone on the van. NOW!” Namjoon orders and it takes less than thirty seconds for everyone to run inside the vehicle and leave all the stuff you had outside behind.

Instead of sitting, everyone seems to be looking out the windows with suspicion, into the dark distrustful woods, all the vehicle’s door locking as the sound of the motor roars to life. Only to stutter and crumble. Seven the heads suddenly snap to the driver’s seat, where Jungkook was again turning the key on the ignition. And the same happened.

“What the hell Jungkook! Get us out of here!” Jimin cries out, showcasing he was just as scared as Hoseok was looking right then.

“I’m trying! The van won’t start!” you can hear the guilt in his voice as he continues to try and try again to start the motor, but it just won’t work.

“We’re sitting prey! WE ARE SITTING PREY!” Hoseok is shaking profusely next to you and you hug him for support. His arms wrap around you as he leans his head against yours and breathes.

“No, we’re not. There was a ranger’s jeep on the side of that cabin next to the toilets, remember?” Namjoon starts, sounding a lot more confident than the clumsy man looked. “If we can get inside that cabin and find the keys, we can drive back to Taffy and wait for the police.”

“That’s IF we can even get to the cabin without encountering whoever is out there and IF we can get in and IF we can find the keys and IF the jeep even works!” Jin points out in a very matter of fact speedy speech that is difficult to keep up with. His nervousness was beginning to show. “How about we just lock ourselves here? Lock the van and wait for rescue? Y/N’s friend must have already called the police by now, we can wait here for them.”

“And be sitting ducks? Hell no!” Yoongi disagrees, biting at his nails before he speaks again. “I’m with Namjoon on this one. Whoever it’s out there, is just one person and there’s eight of us. And we don’t even know if they mean us any harm, they haven’t done anything yet.”

“Except messing with our van” Jungkook sighs irritated, giving up on starting the vehicle. “It worked perfectly before, someone must have messed with the engine.”

“Exactly, which means they wanted us here. They planned for us to stay here so, I say let’s get out there and try our luck with the jeep” Yoongi perseveres.

“You’re assuming they didn’t think we would wander off on our own, hyung! You don’t know! At least here we have four walls between us and whoever is out there, they wouldn’t get in” Jimin objects, sitting down and hugging his knees to his chest.

“Y-Yeah! S-so what if they shut the engine? We s-still have power so we can stay warm all night while they freeze outside!” Taehyung sides with Jimin, speaking for the first time in a while with evident fright in his voice but putting on a stoic front.

“What do you think, Y/N?” Jin asks you, coming to your side and taking your free hand into his while your other one was still around a terrified Hoseok’s back.

“I… I… I don’t know” you confess, completely undecisive. “Both ideas have their pros and cons. I don’t know which would be best, honestly.”

“Well, we do need your keys to try and get into the cabin. You still have the set of keys Taffy gave you, don’t you?” Namjoon asks.

“Oh, yeah, in my pocket” you say as you take them out. There were two other keys besides the ones for the toilets. “You think one of them is for the cabin?”

“Must be, right? It would make sense to have them all in one set if they’re next to each other.”

“I say let’s split up” Yoongi suddenly declares.

“What? That’s the worst idea, have you ever seen a horror movie?” Jungkook refutes. “We should all stick together, keep each other safe.”

“Well, we can’t seem to reach an agreement on what to do and we’re just wasting time. And this is not a horror movie, Jungkook, this is real life. We need to make our move and fast” Yoongi counters back.

“Let’s vote. Who wants to stay on the van?” Namjoon questions.

Jimin, Hoseok and Taehyung immediately raise their hands.

“Okay, who wants to try and get to the jeep?”

Namjoon and Yoongi raise their hands. Both Jin, Jungkook and you stay neutral, unsure of what to pick. But Yoongi was right, you had to make your move sooner rather than later. So, with a deep breath, you go and stand between Namjoon and Yoongi, your decision made.

“I want to try and get out of here. Siting here, doing nothing, just creeps me out. I’ll go with them.”

“No, Y/N!” Jimin pouts with worry and stretches his arm to pull on yours, but you shake your head. Seeing his sad expression, you take his face in between your hands and peck at his forehead.

“If we get to the jeep, we’ll come back for you so we can all leave this place together. No one gets left behind” you promise them.

“I’ll go with them too” Jungkook decides, getting up from his driver’s seat and joining the group. A protective hand lands on your shoulder and you feel a little bit better.

“Then I’ll stay on the van. Keep an eye on them” Jin decides.

“Okay, that’s settled. Everyone, we’ll open the door, gather our things and we’re running” Namjoon says.

“I bet Yoongi is wishing he stayed in the van right now” Jin teases to which Yoongi just scrunches up his small nose. He wasn’t much of a fan of running and neither were you, but you both would have to for now.

“Stay safe, all of you” Taehyung wishes, coming in for a hug. You hug him back and try not to let negative thoughts go over your mind.

“I better hear the motor of the jeep coming soon, okay?” Hoseok asks, obviously nervous for you all.

“We’ll be right back” you promise again, rubbing his arm up and down before leaving.

Jimin holds your hand again, not wanting to let you go, but giving up once you move out of reach. Jin opens the door for all of you to step out and kisses the top of your head before you descend from the van.

You grab your backpack and it’s on.

All of you run towards the cabin, staying close to one another and away from the edges of the woods where there was no light. It was like any shadow could be someone, hiding, ready to strike. But there were four of you. People used to say there is strength in numbers. Hopefully it wouldn’t come to testing that.

The cabin was not particularly far, but in the context of the situation you were in, it felt like a continent away. The seven hundred feet distance took much too long for comfort, with the night sky darkening with each step. The running footsteps of the four of you were so loud you couldn’t tell if someone was following you. You just kept going, trying not to slow down the group with your poor running speed, especially with Jungkook staying right behind you.

When the cabin was just a few feet away, when you struggled to get the keys out of your pants’ pockets while you ran, that’s when you all heard it. A faint noise of glass being broken. And screams.

“Oh my God, oh my God…” you whisper with a trembling voice.

All of you stopped in your tracks as you look back at where the screams were coming from. From the van. Something happened in the van.

“Fuck! Jungkook, stay with Y/N and get to the cabin! Find that key and meet us by the van, we have to go back and help them” Namjoon orders in an almost shouting command, those dark and bushy eyebrows pulled so closely together in apprehension and fear that they almost meet at the bridge of his nose. He was trying to remain brave, but he was just as scared as you all were.

“N-No! I need to go to! We need to help them!” you refuse, already trying to walk back to the van, but Jungkook’s arms come around your shoulders and he keeps you pressed to him while you struggled.

“Focus, Y/N! Me and Yoongi are going back, you two go get the car. NOW!”

They were already running back as he speaks, decision already made despite your aching heart. The youngest members pulls you along with him to the cabin, even as your head remains looking back, heart at your throat and praying to any God out there that they were all fine. That everything would be all fine.

“C’mon, Y/N… I’m sorry but we need to get the car and fast.” Jungkook presses, one hand around your back keeping you running forward to the cabin.

“T-They are okay, r-right?” you force yourself to speak despite the lump on your throat. “They can’t b-be… be hurt…”

Your voice ends up dying in your mouth as he looks away with clenched jaws, not able to give you the response you wanted. Not having a response to give, probably being just as terrified as you were. All of his hyungs were back there in danger, relying on him and you to go and get them out. With that in mind, you force yourself to focus on your tasks again.

You try the first key on the lock and it doesn’t fit. Hands shaking, you try the second key. It goes in. You turn it on the lock and a nervous and relieving chuckle escapes you as the mechanism of the latch opens.

“Okay, okay!” you utter as you open the door and get in.

“Right, search for the key of the jeep! Quick!”

Letting go of him, you start searching the small cabin. Every drawer, cabinet, even under the rug gets searched. The plan was cemented around finding this key and getting to the jeep. The key had to be here, it just had to be. You went into the bathroom, even rummaging through the med kits in hopes it was somehow lost in there. It came to you then, that you still had the walkie talkie with you in the bag.

“Kook! I’ll try to ask Taffy on the radio again” you yell out to him, already taking the walkie out of your bag. “Taffy, can you hear me? Taffy, are you there?”

There’s only static. And silence.

The back of your neck breaks into goosebumps. It was silent. The cabin had gone absolutely dead silent. Not a single step, not a single breath, not a single movement was heard.

“Kook?” You step out of the bathroom slowly, wide restless eyes searching around the hallway and peering into the bedroom next to the restroom. Much to your terror, no one’s there. “… J-Jungkook?”

No one answers. You voice cracks as you call for him when walking into the dark living room, tears of distress gathering at your eyes that strained to see with only the moonlight coming in through the windows. The white light bounced off the furniture, the sofa and cabinets and the table. But no Jungkook. There was no one at the cabin. You were suddenly all alone.

“Oh no… oh no…” you whisper into the darkness, completely frozen as you don’t know what to do anymore.

Your body crumbles beneath you and you feel at a complete lost. So, you just do what you’ve been avoiding all this time: you break down and cry. It starts in small sobs but soon you are drenching your hands as they hide your face, crying your heart out.

“CODE RED! CODE RED!”

It all happens so fast you can barely keep up. Eight figures jump out from behind the large sofa on the other side of the room, a loud bang releases a bunch of confetti suddenly into the hair and someone crunches down in front of you with a hand on your shoulder. Through your tears, it takes you a while to realize it’s Jungkook.

“W-What?” is all you manage to say as you sob.

“Damn it, guys! I told you this would make her cry!” a voice you recognized too well says. It was Taffy, standing among the boys with a tray of food in her hand.

“Hey, Y/N, it’s okay, you’re okay” Jimin, who came to squat down next to Jungkook and took your hand into his, says in a calming sweet voice.  

“But… the van and the screams…” you whisper back, your brain trying to make sense of the mess you found yourself in.

“Sorry, sunshine! We didn’t mean to scare you this much!” Hoseok apologizes. “Someone dropped a glass cup while we waited and it scared me, so I may have screamed a bit too loud.”

Hoseok shoots a look at Jimin, who whispers another ‘sorry’ to you. Your eyes wonder around all of them and you find yourself staring blankly at Jin, who just shrugs.

“Happy Halloween?” he expresses.  

“We may have gone a bit overboard. But we were also trying to prove a point! We agreed to not get each other gifts anymore and you went ahead and planned all of this for us. So, we planned something for you too” Namjoon starts explaining.

“We definitely over did it. She’s crying, hyung!” Taehyung points out, with a guilty expression.

“Yeah, we’re not the best at coming up with a plan at the last minute like this. All of this was just supposed to spook her, not terrify Y/N like this. And there should have been a lot less running!” Yoongi complains.

That brings a chuckle from everyone except you, as you are still processing it all.

“S-So… So, this was all fake? To scare me for Halloween?” you sum up their explanation the best your jumbled brain could.

The guys and your friend all share a look, before answering you in unison.

“Yes.”

Slowly, you stand up, your bulky legs no longer shaking, eyes closed as you inhale deeply and exhale soundly. When you open your eyes again, there are eight pair of worried ones staring at you. And you only had one thing to say.

“I hate all of your stupid faces!”

It’s a lie and they all know it. To apologize and earn your forgiveness, you are suddenly pulled into a group hug by the boys while your friend turns on the lights of the cabin and prepares the fireplace.

You spend the rest of the Halloween night hearing all about their malicious plan, the preparations and outrageous ideas they came up with before settling on this one. You never thought you would be grateful to only have gone through this situation until you heard some of their ‘spookier’ concepts they had. And, although you wouldn’t admit it to them, this would be the Halloween you would tell everyone about until your old years to come. It would be the most memorable Halloween of your life.

[dawninlatin]

Slow dancing and surprises

Part of the Manorian Teacher AU

Words: 3156

AO3 Link

This particular fic was requested by Anonymous (and several others): "Hey, any chance you could write a scene where Manon realizes she’s pregnant / tells Dorian she’s pregnant?" Hope you like it<3

The song referenced in this fic is Lover, You Should've Come Over by Jeff Buckley

Set a few weeks before «Online classes are the worst»

«Mr. Havilliard? Can I have a word with you?»

As the classroom door opened to reveal twenty pairs of prying eyes, Manon schooled her features into bored impatience, the look conveying that she was merely here to deliver an important, work-related message.

Dorian was standing with his back to her, facing the chalkboard, and when he turned around, Manon had to remind herself that one; she was at work, she couldn’t just run over and kiss him, and two; they had an audience, who didn’t know they were in a relationship.

He was wearing his glasses today, which made him look ten times sexier than usual, and his hair was slightly disheveled, a certain sign that he was currently talking about something intriguing. That, and the way his blue eyes glowed

How had she fallen in love with such a dork?

«Of course, Ms. Blackbeak,» Dorian answered, giving her a smirk. Manon only stared, her thoughts thankfully interrupted.

«Someone’s in trouble?» said a sing-song voice from the back of the classroom. Identifying the offender, she locked eyes with him and gave him a deadly look. He quickly averted his eyes, his face turning bright red, and Manon allowed herself a satisfied smirk.

Dorian headed for the door, but turned around and said to the room, «You can start reading on page 207 meanwhile.»

Stepping aside to let him through, Manon waited for the soft click indicating that they were now alone, and when she heard it, she let her mask fall, giving her boyfriend a warm look.

«I’ll never get used to you calling me Mr. Havilliard,» Dorian said, shaking his head.

«And why would it be unnatural for me to call you Mr. Havilliard? Our relationship is strictly professional, after all,» Manon teased, a smile playing on her lips.

Dorian grinned, and leaned in to press a soft kiss to her lips. «Would a colleague do this?» he whispered against her mouth.

«Most definitely,» Manon deadpanned. «Me and Lorcan really got it on in the storage room the other day.»

At the mention of the grumpy maths teacher, Dorian leaned his head back and howled. Manon and Lorcan’s mutual dislike of each other was no secret to anyone, honestly. Unfortunately for them, their respective subjects crossed paths more often than not.

«Can you be a bit quiet,» Manon hissed to Dorian when he kept laughing. «These walls aren’t exactly sound proof and I can’t have any kids thinking I have a sense of humor.»

«Right,» he whispered, pressing another kiss to her lips, his eyes crinkling in amusement.

Manon had nearly forgotten why she came here in the first place, but remembering they were in fact in public, she pressed her palms against his chest and pushed him away, saying, «I need your keys. I forgot mine this morning, and I’m heading home for the day.»

Dorian’s playful smirk was suddenly replaced by concern, and he took a step back so he could scan her from head to toe. A frown appeared on his face as he now noticed how pale she was, how she had dark circles under her eyes, which were a dull brown-ish colour instead of their usual molten gold.

«Are you okay?» He brought a hand to her forehead to check for a fever, but Manon swatted it away.

«I’ll be fine, you mother hen!» She just had to get home and take a nap before her headache killed her, or before she got so nauseous she puked all over her classroom.

Manon had been sick on and off for the past three weeks now, and she was officially over it. Too bad her body didn’t feel the same way. Today had been her first day back at work in a full week, but apparently she needed a day or two more on the couch, being bored out of her mind…

«Do you need me to drive you home?» Dorian still searched her with that concerning gaze, and Manon rolled her eyes at how warm it made her feel inside. Stupid feelings.

She tried shaking her head, but had to stop immediately as it sent a wave of throbbing pain through her head. «No, you have a class waiting for you. I can drive myself,» she said, adding, «Unless you need the car, of course.» Even her voice sounded weak.

Dorian looked ready to protest, but instead of saying anything, he merely tightened his lips.

«It’s fine, I can take the bus today. My keys are in my office,» he said at last, leading her down the hallway.

-

As they reached the teacher’s lounge, on their way to Dorian’s office, they discovered the room to be nearly empty, with the exception their favorite colleague, Yrene Towers. She was sitting at one of the tables, sipping a cup of coffee, and when she spotted the pair, her gaze quickly moved to their entangled hands, a satisfied smile spreading on her face.

«It’s been four years, Yrene, you surely must be getting used to seeing us together,» Manon said bluntly, but Yrene shook her head, letting out a happy sigh.

«Never,» the woman claimed. «You two are the most adorable couple ever, and it’s all thanks to me.» It was kind of charming, Dorian thought, to see her so invested in them.

And it was true, what she said. Had Yrene never decided to meddle in their private lives and send them on a work trip together, Dorian didn’t know where him and Manon would be today. Merely thinking of them not being together felt so wrong it physically pained him.

«To be honest, it was necessary to achieve a safe work environment,» Yrene said, Dorian raising an eyebrow in question. «Had I intervened even just a week later, the heavy sexual tension between you two would have suffocated us all.»

Manon snorted beside him, Yrene looking as smug as ever. Had it been anyone else, his girlfriend would have killed them on the spot.

«And for that we will be forever grateful,» Dorian said, placing a hand over his heart in mock gratitude.

Yrene brushed it off, saying, «You can thank me by making me the godmother of one of those inhumanly beautiful babies you’ll make.» Manon stiffened beside him, and both Yrene and Dorian shifted their attention to her. She looked even paler now than she had before.

«Are you okay?» Yrene asked. «You look a little…peaky.»

«Yeah,» Manon said, trying, but failing, to give them a reassuring smile. «I’m sure a nap and some food will make it better. Actually, I’m heading home right now.»

«Ah, I won’t halt you any longer then,» Yrene announced, getting up from her table. «Get well soon, Manon!» She gave Manon’s shoulder a squeeze as she passed them on her way out.

«I’ll go get those keys,» Dorian told his girlfriend, hurrying into his office.

When he came back out, keys in hand, Manon was standing the exact same way as he’d left her, staring into nothing. She didn’t register that he was back until he was standing in front of her.

«Here you go,» he said, handing her the set of keys. She gave him a small smile in return, but it didn’t meet her eyes. Instead, they had a distant look in them.

«Thanks,» she muttered so low he nearly didn’t hear it.

Dorian couldn’t shake off his worrying. It was unsettling to see his girlfriend so…weak. And for her to even admit she was sick…it had to be really bad.

Unable to stop himself, he asked once more, «Are you sure you don’t need me to come with you?»

«You stay, I just need to sleep it off,» she tried to convince him, pressing a chaste kiss to the corner of his mouth. «See you in a few hours.»

And with that she was gone, Dorian left with a sinking feeling in his gut.

Something was wrong.

-

Manon lay on the couch, wrapped in a heavy blanket, an old episode of «Bill Nye, the Science Guy» playing on the TV. Except Manon wasn’t paying attention to the TV at all. No, all she could focus on was the brown paper bag laying on the kitchen table, it’s presence all-consuming.

She would take it in the morning, she had tried to convince herself. The results would be more accurate then, and she wasn’t sure she could do it without Dorian.

It’s only to rule it out, so you won’t have to worry, Manon thought, not believing it one bit.

And if she never took the test, it technically couldn’t be positive, right?

The thought hadn’t even crossed her mind until Yrene’s words earlier. But as soon as she’d said them, some part of Manon had known. It would certainly explain why she’d been feeling so queasy lately.

While driving home, her mind had been fighting a battle of what if’s and why not’s, the what if winning in the end, as she’d suddenly found herself outside the pharmacy, bag in hand.

If she truly was… Gods, she couldn’t even think the word. Her and Dorian had always been so careful…

And if it turned out to be positive…what would they do?

Manon couldn’t take more of the churning thoughts or the uncertainty.

Sighing in defeat, she dragged her fatigued body off the couch an headed for the bathroom, taking the paper bag with her.

-

Dorian opened the front door to find the house eerily quiet. He stepped into the living room, which was empty, but the TV was on, so Manon couldn’t be far away. She was probably just sleeping, Dorian told himself, but something felt off…

«Manon?» he called as he stepped into the kitchen, putting away the groceries he’d gotten on his way home.

No one answered.

Dorian could feel panic spread through his body, but he tried to stay calm, to stay rational. She was probably upstairs, sleeping, as she should be.

Still, he couldn’t shake off the feeling that something was very wrong.

What if she’d gotten worse? Or passed out somewhere?

His pulse started racing as he practically sprinted up the stairs, towards their bedroom.

«Manon?!» he called once more, but he was yet again met with silence.

Pushing the door open, his heart skipped a beat as he discovered the bed to be empty, as tidy as they had left it that morning. Dorian could feel all the blood drain from his face, picturing a hundred scenarios in his head, all of them equally terrifying.

Then he heard a noise coming from his right. He turned around and saw Abraxos lying in front of the closed bathroom door, guarding it. The cat meowed a second time, rushing over to him, trying to get his attention.

Dorian scanned the door, letting out a sigh of relief when he noticed the sliver of light coming from beneath it.

«Manon? Are you in there?» he asked softly, leaning against the door. When she still didn’t answer, he twisted the doorknob, thankfully finding it unlocked.

He held his breath as he stepped into the bathroom, afraid of what would meet him.

But Manon wasn’t passed out, she was sitting on the floor, in front of the bathtub, staring intensely at something in her lap.

Dorian sat down in front of her, trying to meet her eyes, but it didn’t seem like she even knew he was there.

«What’s wrong?» he asked her, frowning in confusion. Dread pooled in his stomach.

Manon kept focusing her eyes on her lap as she silently handed him the thing she was holding, his heart skipping another beat as he learned it was a plastic stick.

With shaking hands, Dorian turned it around and was met with two, bright pink lines staring up at him. He couldn’t make out a single clear thought, too many running through his head at the same time.

When he finally managed to look up from the positive pregnancy test, Manon was looking at him with that same intense gaze. It hurt to see his girlfriend like this, so lost and afraid and vulnerable.

«Is it- Are you- You’re sure that it’s positive?» was all he could choke out.

Her throat bobbed.

Once.

Twice.

Manon didn’t answer, just sat there, trembling. He was sure she’d gone into shock.

After a while, she said with a quiet voice, her words devoid of any emotion, «It looks positive to me. And the other two I took says the same.» She nodded towards the sink behind him.

Dorian twisted to pick up the other tests, which also clearly said pregnant.

«How far along?» he asked, not knowing what else to say.

She shrugged. «Less than twelve, more than six.»

«Shit.»

«Yeah, shit.»

They sat in silence for what felt like an eternity, all the unspoken words hanging heavy in the air between them.

Manon broke the silence by drawing a shuddering breath, whispering, «What are we gonna do, Dorian?»

It was the quiet despair in her voice that made him scoot over to her side and gather her up in his arms. She clutched his shirt, burying her face in his chest.

«I don’t know, love.»

He pressed a kiss to her hair.

«I don’t know.»

Then she threw herself out of his arms, hurling the contents of her stomach into the nearby toilet.

-1 week later -

Manon glanced at the alarm clock once more, silently groaning at what she saw. It was currently 3am, and she was wide awake, unable to stop the thoughts churning in her mind.

Deciding she couldn’t keep tossing and turning like this, she quietly slipped out of bed, careful not to wake her sleeping boyfriend.

She padded across the floor and down the stairs, stepping over a sleeping Abraxos, and made her way to the kitchen. The soft lights turned on, and Manon stepped over to the sink, beginning on the mountain of dirty dishes. She might as well do something useful if she was going to stay awake all night.

And it helped keeping the thoughts away. That, and the small radio she turned on, keeping the volume low.

A week had passed, and she was still knocked up, still hadn’t made a decision.

Manon had always said she didn’t want kids, but thinking about how there was a tiny, human being growing inside her…

A tiny, human being that she had created with Dorian…It made her reconsider it all. Made her doubt all she’d thought she knew.

Would they look like him? Be like him? Would she be able to love them as much as she loved this man?

Manon had never been good at analyzing her emotions, her mind too rational for it’s own good. They were old enough and in a long-term relationship. They both had a stable income, and more than enough room in their house. But was this something she wanted?

Tomorrow.

She would debate it tomorrow, Manon promised herself, instead getting lost in the task of doing all the dishes.

In fact, she got so caught up that she didn’t notice Dorian approaching until he stepped behind her, banding his arms around her waist.

«Couldn’t sleep?» he murmured, pressing a kiss to her cheek.

Manon shook her head, furiously scrubbing a pan. «I’m sorry I woke you,» she whispered.

«You didn’t,» he whispered back, taking the pan from her hands and placing it back in the sink. «Care to explain why you’re doing the dishes in the middle of the night?»

«It’s the only way I can stop thinking so much,» she said quietly, leaning back against his wide frame.

«Do you want to talk about it?»

At first, she didn’t say anything.

But then a single thought appeared in her mind.

A truth she had realized days ago, without truly knowing it.

«I think I want to keep it,» she voiced, her words barely audible, a single tear trailing down her cheek.

And as she said those words out loud, she knew.

Knew that she wanted this.

Even if it terrified her.

She knew that Dorian wanted it too, although he hadn’t said it directly. But he would make an excellent father, and she wanted to share this with him. This precious thing they had created together.

Dorian stiffened behind her, and Manon twisted in his arms to find him looking at her with awe, something like hope shining in his eyes. «Are- Are you sure?»

He brought a thumb to her cheek, wiping away the tear. It was the first time she cried in front of him, in front of anyone, and it felt good, to be able to be so vulnerable with someone.

«Yes,» she breathed.

«I’m going to be a father?» he asked, voice full of disbelief.

«Yes, you’re going to be a father» Manon laughed as more tears fell. «We’re having a baby!»

Dorian was crying now, too, pulling her into a tight embrace. «I love you so much, Manon Blackbeak,» he whispered in her ear.

They stood like that for a while, simply enjoying the feeling of being close.

«Do you hear that?» Dorian said all of a sudden. He let go of her to turn up the volume on the radio still playing music. Manon smiled softly at the familiar tune.

«This is our song,» Dorian said, grinning.

Manon cringed. «We don’t have a song.»

«Oh yes, we do. Don’t you remember dancing to this on our first date?»

Of course Manon remembered. She would never forget that night.

«That doesn’t make it our song. And it’s just so…cliché.»

«Love is a cliché, Manon.»

She rolled her eyes, but a playful smile graced her lips. «How did I end up with such a hopeless romantic?»

«I’ll show you romantic,» Dorian said, his blue eyes twinkling. «Come here.»

He held out his hand, and said in a hushed voice, «Dance with me.»

«You know I can’t dance,» she whispered.

«We’ll go slow,» Dorian promised her.

Hesitantly, she took his hand, and he pulled her close, tucking her head under his chin. Dorian placed a hand on her back, and slowly began swaying to the music.

Manon closed her eyes, relishing the moment.

And as Dorian began to softly sing along, his voice low and raspy, Manon decided that this, right here, in his arms, was where she wanted to spend the rest of her life.

Broken down and hungry for your love

With no way to feed it

Had someone told her this all those years ago, that she would one day be standing here, with Dorian Havilliard of all people, in their home, expecting his child, she would laugh herself hoarse.

But she wished.

Wished that past Manon had known how much she needed a family.

So I'll wait for you, and I'll burn

Will I ever see your sweet return

Oh, will I ever learn?

A/N: Hope you enjoyed reading this as much as I enjoyed writing it. I'm really loving this AU more and more for every chapter I write!  Also, I’d like to give a huge thanks to everyone who comments/reblogs etc. It means the world to me!

Tag list: @fireheartdreamerstarborn​

(let me know if you wanna be tagged, and I’ll try to put together a list)

[neerasrealm]

tim headcanons, if you can, please and thank you

TIMMAAAAY I haven't actually finished marble hornets yet so I haven't got a clear idea of how to characterise him yet so 😔✌️ sorry if some of this is inaccurate or ooc

God how do I start with this man

He lives in the mansion basement and jokingly calls himself the basement cryptid

It's funny until he charges up the stairs at you at top speed

Or you go down there at night and just see him standing in a corner for no particular reason

Always tired. Doesn't sleep good. He has very vivid dreams that make it difficult to sleep peacefully

Pretty common to find him just on the couch at three am just quietly watching TV

Very laid-back. Tired uncle energies

Literally nothing phases him anymore he's been through too much shit man

Could probably fistfight god

Would probably fistfight god

Won't hesitate to deck someone in the face if he deems it necessary

Y'know how a lot of people are like "Tim is Toby's unofficial dad"

Tim low-key adopted Cody

Except instead of being the caring father figure he gives questionable advice and helps him in and out of trouble

Tim, watching Cody break a car window with a baseball bat: remember, it's not a crime if you don't get caught ☺️

Scarily good with animals. Everywhere he goes he just attracts them

"look at this cute lil guy I found!"

"Tim that's a fOX-"

Gives the softest, warmest hugs istg 🥺 he's warm and chubby and always squeezes the other person really tight

Bear hugs from a bear

The others are trying to make him quit smoking. He's really reluctant about it but appreciates the concern

He still REEKS of cigarettes though smh

Eats mostly junk when nobody is around to make sure he takes care of himself

Really good?? At climbing?? Nobody understands how he does it considering his weight and him being just a normal human?? It's unreal he just skitters up there no problem

Good with kids.

He's not the most morally correct guy but he's dealt with shitty mental health and often sits the other residents down and gives advice because everyone is ✨traumatised✨

Sally loves hanging out with him because he's just chill and playfully goes along with her

Not very physically affectionate unless you push him to do it or he's really really bad. Shows affection for others through buying them food or slipping them some money

"I have no idea what I'm doing but it's gonna work whether the laws of physics like it or not!"

FAST. He moves way faster than you'd expect him to. It's honestly scary

Doesn't talk about his past much unless he's trying to give somebody advice. A lot of the creeps go to him for it because he's been through so much and doesn't sugar coat it at all

Uhh that's all I have time to write but. I love Tim so much istg 🥺 love him

[killmebutneverinsultme2]

Rules for mobile (Pinned Post)

The Code

Success. I’ve sufficiently pestered the wench to make me a blog, much to the cost of a certain behorned mischief god whose presence I must share. Follow the rules below, and there’ll be smooth sailin’, savvy?

This be an exceptionally selective blog. I was me mun’s first ever muse yonks back and I’ve pestered her into writing me again, BUT, she’s horribly pressed for time. Partners will likely be very few, else ones doubling up with Loki’s. Anyone is welcome to approach and enquire, but she and I will be leaning toward those either from me own universe or crossovers with which she’s highly familiar and characters in whom she’s especially interested. Ye have been warned.

Replies are like to be slow, up to a few weeks at most.

Partners must be 18+. Various themes of an adult nature may be found here. Sexual things will be tagged ‘#filthy pirate’ with whatever level/variety of sin I deem them. More details below.

Behave. There shall be no rudeness, no passive aggression, no hate, no censorship or generally being a twit. Do I make meself clear?

The Code - Extended (below the cut)

Hi, guys. I’m Pirate (oddly known as this long before I made Jack a tumblr). Here are my more detailed rules and guidelines for writing with me on this blog, though the absolute basics are at the top as, honestly, it’s never easy to remember everyone’s requirements.

Jack is a sideblog. If you’re being followed by a benevolentgodloki that means I’m following you back. I don’t need us to be mutuals (both following each other) for us to write together, but there is a greater chance of us having a partnership if we’re letting each other know we’re interested.

How I Roll

I note myself as ‘highly selective’. This isn’t to be an elitist bugger, it’s because we all only have a limited amount of time we can put in. I want to write what I enjoy with people I enjoy. I am married with two attention-seeking cats, two jobs, a slow-brewing intended writing career and a video game addiction.

Asks/Memes - I will usually answer these no matter who they are from but I may or may not turn them into a thread I intend to keep. Some memes are very much designed to be something that continues so context can be key. If you would like to know in advance whether I intend to answer and/or keep something, please do pop me a message and I will be kind and honest.

My Threads - While Jack’s blog is still exciting and new, I’m being a bit all over the place with who and what I reply to depending on which way Jack’s.. compass.. is pointing. I do have a rolling turn order that I adhere to (to the point that I can genuinely tell you who is next at any given moment) but it’s all piled in with Loki’s threads, meaning I can take a few weeks to get round everything. Every partner gets one of their threads answered within that ‘round’ and then I go round again. However, when I’m really into something/finding something easy to pop back, I treat myself to spamming certain threads or partners at my whim. I use rpthreadtracker.com to maintain what I have. 

I will remind partners of threads that have not been replied to for more than three months. If I do not do this, I have either forgotten/lost it myself, I’m not too fussed about keeping it at that stage, or you were absent for a long period of time. 

My Style - I will write in both past or present tense depending on partner preference. My default is past but I like either. Please kick me if I screw up and write the wrong one. I prefer using regular size font but I will make mine small on replies to people who use the smaller so that it looks neat. I will often match partners’ lengths and some formatting details e.g. bolding dialogue, but I struggle with doing novella-length posts for reasons below.

I have a bugbear to admit about role-play. What we call splicing. A good half of my partners write this way so I’m not about to tell everyone to stop but if you’re someone who does this, you will occasionally run into some frustrations when writing with me. ‘Splicing’ is when you retrospectively write dialogue or actions as having previously happened during your partner’s last post. These things are fine when they’re passive i.e. your character muttered them, thought them or you were writing what your character was doing at the time because that’s pretty much essential. The trouble comes usually when my characters talk a lot/ask rhetorical questions and partners choose to answer every single one despite the fact my character carried on talking. I know it’s an ass that I have talkative muses and you really want to respond to every point/get a word in, but putting words and actions into the past effectively godmods my muse into accepting they happened. If you feel your muse would have full-on interjected midway through their ramble, please ask me to edit my post/stop it at that point. Otherwise if you do prefer to splice, my muse will only respond to whatever it is your character did or said last in their post. This is one of the reasons I can’t write novella, because often there is only so much you can write before you’re stepping into the territory of changing what went before and not allowing your partner to do anything about it.

TL;DR don’t ever worry about your post being too short for me. If it’s one sentence long but it’s because something fast-paced is happening, I won’t be miffed.

Shipping! - no not that kind of ship, Jack. I love shipping. Ships all around. Let’s face it, romance can be one of the most exciting reasons we bother writing. I am open to a lot of ships for Jack, practically all of them. Yes, even that one. I will do downright nasty, toxic, horrible stuff, savvy? It’s fiction and Jack is a great indulgence for bad things happening to him as much as good. That said, of course don’t force something on him without prior agreement between us. Well, I mean, your muse can try and accost him and see what he does, just don’t expect him to definitely reciprocate. Jack and I are bi/pansexual. We’re open to everything. I will admit a heavy lean toward m/m but, that said, Jack is extremely fond of the ladies, more so than Loki. I am very into Sparrington especially.

Not Safe For Ye Olde Work

Sliding down from the above topic, I enjoy the occasional smutting. It is not a requirement from my partners. In fact, I’m warming very much to fading to black depending on the context/mood/if things feel a bit repetitive. I do feel a touch more comfortable with partners who don’t need that boundary but as I’ve recently figured ‘if it needs a cut, then it’s smut’ I know when to skip on.

Saucy material will go under cuts/Read More’s and be tagged as mentioned above with ‘filthy pirate’. Additional tags will be based on the citrus scale: ‘lime’ for general grabbing, ‘lemon’ for full on sexual content and ‘grapefruit’ if things get extra kinky. I will tag things such as ‘rape tw’ or ‘noncon tw’ or ‘dubcon tw’ where necessary. Please blacklist any or all of these at your leisure, or search them if you fancy :U I do NOT tag these as ‘ns.fw’ because tumblr just completely hides them from being searchable which is useless for my partners.

OC’s - Due to my time constraints I am extremely picky when it comes to OC’s. This is a good fandom for well-thought-out muses and I know firsthand how hard it is to make headway as an OC in the RP world. However, I also understand that for people like me, I want to dip in on this site to mostly play with the characters and worlds I’m really absorbed in and ship my weaselly black guts out. Some people have more time than others to really give your OCs the time and love they deserve. Unless I’ve played with you a long time and I really like the cut of your and your muse’s jib, it’s very unlikely I’ll bite. Apologies! The same goes for crossover muses from fandoms I’m unfamiliar with, but I will let you know if that’s the case.

Limits

Threads - I don’t have a strict limit on how many to have per person but please bear in mind that the more of these you have with me the longer it will take me to get to a particular one (unless I’m spamming it back and forth). This is more a mun/muse context how many I accept.

Exclusives/mains - I don’t do these although I may consider having a maximum of 3 or 4 of one muse depending on activity levels and to ensure plots don’t get mixed up or attention feel unfairly balanced.

Triggers/squicks - I don’t like body horror e.g. graphic detail of squishy bits having bad things happen to them. I’m writing a pirate so there’s absolutely allowed to be elements of torture/violence, just don’t stab him in the eye or chop bits off him. One torture-related thing sends me into a complete freakout which I’ll discuss with partners if we’re doing a thread of that ilk as needed. Kink-wise I’m not into mpreg, A/B/O or infantilism or toilet things. Just ask me/Jack if you’re after something XD

Who I Am/What I Need From You

Being yourself is the most important thing and I promise I am not a scary person (usually). We’re only human and it’s natural that we’ll get along better with some rather than others. This is more to give you a gist of the sort of person I am and who I gel with best.

So I’m a shy hermit at the best of times. I’m trying to be better at engaging and enthusing with partners over our threads because I realise more than ever this does keep things alive and make for a more enjoyable experience. I’m not always great at it. I work best with people who are patient and don’t worry too much on what I think of them and their writing, with people who are happy to keep threads going for the longhaul rather than keep dropping everything before I’ve had the time to get to the next post, and most especially people who accept that fiction =/= reality. I do need a certain level of quality, which doesn’t always mean perfect grammar, but it must be coherent, fun and creative. I like a relaxed approach, sharing mutual enjoyment in silly fantasy world sandboxes as escapism from (and exploration of) this complicated world we live in.

If you managed to read all of this, have a drink (even if it’s water). You’re a diamond. 

Pirate xxx

[runpogorun]

Cirdadian

This is my Daredevil Exchange 2020 @daredevilexchange gift for @enfernalinferno, to fill the prompt ‘Insomnia.’ I hope you enjoy. Read here, or over on AO3.

Circadian

Matt didn’t have a clue what time it was, but he knew it was late, maybe around midday. After a good week or so where he felt like a functioning member of society, he’d been slipping again. The nights had become longer and later, coinciding with wakefulness and high energy, until suddenly here he was, sleeping away the morning. 

He pushed back the layers of drowsiness and swiped at his nightstand, knocking his phone onto the floor with an alarming crunch. With a groan, he rolled onto his belly and hung his arm off the bed, sweeping the floor with his fingertips until he located the phone. The crack across the screen was slightly longer, but it seemed to turn on as usual, announcing the time as 1:17 p.m. “Fuck.” There were two messages from Foggy.

8:55 a.m.: Hey buddy, you joining us?

9:03 a.m.: You’re probably still asleep. Let me know when you get this, so I know you’re not dead

Matt swallowed and licked his lips before dictating a reply. “Sorry Fog, slept in. How’d it go?” 

Matt’s stomach growled. He couldn’t remember if he had any food in the apartment. He scrubbed a hand across his face, fingers rasping against his stubble, then then shuffled to his feet and went in search of coffee.

Fifteen minutes later Matt was seated at his dining table, nursing the last traces of heat fading from his empty coffee cup, and cursing past-Matt’s abysmal grocery shopping. He was startled from his seat by a knock at his door, followed by a jangle of keys in the lock. “It’s Foggy and Karen. I’m letting us in,” came the call, and Matt sank back into his chair, turning to face the hallway. “I brought celebration food!”

“What are we celebrating?” Matt called back.

“A deposition to be proud of!” The door closed, and two sets of footsteps made their way down the hall. 

Matt smiled with relief. He’d been concerned about this particular deposition. Another step closer to helping their client. “I expected nothing less,” he said, as Foggy rounded the corner.

“Don’t get up on our account, Murdock,” Foggy said, reaching out and mussing up Matt’s hair as he passed on his way to the kitchen, take-out bags rustling. “I know it’s the middle of the day, but Thai is good at any time.” Foggy opened the back cabinets and started pulling down plates and dishing out the food. 

Karen sat down at the table and leaned in, whispering, “Are you okay, Matt?” There was concern in her voice. “You look kind of rough.”

Matt shook his head, wishing he had his glasses on. “I’m fine. I just slept late,” he said. Karen made an uncertain noise, her head turning towards Foggy, who appeared not to have heard them. “So, tell me more,” he prodded.

Foggy placed two plates on the table, then turned back to get his own. “You should have seen Hogarth’s face, Matty. She knows we’ve got this sewn up.” He slid into the seat on the other side of Matt, gently cuffing Matt in the shoulder.

“Hogarth was there?” Matt asked, picking up his fork and prodding at his pad thai.

“Well, no, not for the deposition,” Foggy said. “The new hire, Fonti? It was her. But I saw her briefing Hogarth outside afterwards, and when she saw me Hogarth looked like I’d just killed her cat. I think we’re going to avoid a trial.” Matt nodded. A settlement was what they were hoping for - a settlement in their client’s favour. “Oh, but, the old guy, Mason? He couldn’t make it today, and they’ve had to schedule him for tomorrow afternoon. What time was it, Karen?”

Karen pressed the back of her hand against her mouth and swallowed her mouthful before responding. “Three p.m.” 

“You’ll be able to make that one, Matty. Want to take the lead?” Foggy asked.

Matt shrugged. “Sure. Unless you think you’re on a roll?”

“Nah, Buddy. You can take it. It’s about time you did something around here,” Foggy said, without heat. Still, Matt felt a pang of guilt, and clearly it showed on his face, because Foggy’s tone became more serious as he said, “Hey, I’m joking. We’ve been over this. Eat your Thai and be happy, or else.”

Matt nodded and turned back to his food, noting that Karen’s breath had become shallow, her heart rate pitter-patter fast, like she was worried.

_____

Matt had managed to fall asleep somewhere after dawn, only just waking in time to make it to their three p.m. meeting. Thankfully, Foggy was waiting outside with a coffee in hand, which he thrust at Matt with the command, “Drink.”

“You’re a lifesaver, Fog,” Matt said, juggling his cane for a moment before Foggy took it from him. 

“Chill. We’ve got a few minutes.”

Matt nodded, and took a calming breath before blowing on his coffee. “Karen?”

“Finishing something. She might join us later.” Foggy rocked back on his heels, humming a Hamilton tune. 

Matt cleared his throat to ask, “So, Fonti. Do I need to know anything?”

“Nah. Pretty run of the mill, I’d say. Although definitely not attractive. Not at all.”

“Fogs. You’ve got to stop objectifying every beautiful woman you see.”

“Hey! I’m just doing the job for both of us. Although, I’d really like you to explain that to me, sometime.” Matt raised a questioning brow and Foggy waved a hand in his general direction. “The… freaky-senses-beautiful-woman-radar-thing.”

Matt just grunted and shook his head in response, dedicating himself to his caffeine fix before they headed inside.

As Matt shook Amelia Fonti’s hand, he could tell two things. One, that she was indeed an attractive woman; and two, that she was in some way thrown off balance by Matt. He couldn’t immediately tell if it was attraction or uncertainty with how to approach his blindness. Neither was his problem.

Civil litigation was one of Matt’s strengths, and he approached the deposition with a well-worn confidence. Mason initially seemed pleased to be able to tell his side of the story, but quickly realised that Matt wasn’t his friend. He soon became less cheerful, giving short answers. This suited Matt fine, because he was getting the information he wanted. But Fonti seemed to be reacting strangely, temperature rising with a flush and heart rate jumping, whenever Matt was particularly incisive. It didn’t seem like annoyance or frustration. 

Inside thirty minutes, Matt had everything he needed so he and Foggy thanked Mr Mason and Ms Fonti, and headed out to where Karen was waiting. They had all started to walk off, when Matt heard Fonti calling his name. He let go of Foggy’s elbow and turned to face her, a neutral smile on his face.

“Mr Murdock,” she said breathlessly, “It’s Amelia Fonti.” Matt nodded politely, as though he couldn’t be expected to recognise someone he’d just been in close quarters with for over half an hour. 

“I just wanted to say,” she continued, “What a wonderful job I think you’re doing.”

“Oh,” Matt said in surprise, momentarily startled. “I, ah, thank you. Foggy and I do like to think we’re making a difference.” He inclined his head towards where Foggy was standing, to the side and just behind him. Foggy seemed tense.

“Oh yes,” she said, “I suppose you could say that. But no, that’s not what I meant.”

Matt frowned. “I don’t follow.”

“I mean,” and here she paused, clearly thinking of what to say. She took a deep breath and started again. “I just mean, I think you’re inspirational. Being so confident when you’re, you know.” 

“I’m afraid I still don’t know what you’re getting at, Ms Fonti.” Although, of course, he did.

Fonti stepped closer, resting a hand lightly on his forearm. “That you want to practice law, when everything must be so hard for you.” She dropped her voice to just above a whisper. “When you can’t see.” 

By this stage, Matt had heard more than enough. Shucking her hand, he stepped back, shook his head slightly, and said, “If you’ll excuse me, Ms Fonti.” He turned his back to her and walked away, cane swinging slightly more forcefully than necessary.

She stepped forward, “Mr Murdock!” But Foggy blocked her path, hands in his pockets, cutting her short. 

“Matt’s a damn good lawyer, not your inspiration porn,” Foggy said. He turned away to follow Matt, but giving him some space. 

Matt heard Karen sidle up beside Foggy and ask in a whisper she didn’t know he could hear, “Is Matt okay?”

“Yeah,” Foggy said shortly. “He’ll be fine.” 

“He doesn’t seem fine.”

“He’s probably pissed, but he’ll get over it. It’s not like it’s the first time. He’s blind, sure, but that’s not all he is and he doesn’t want to talk about it that much. Let’s get back to the office.” 

____

Vaguely, Matt became aware of distant banging. Or, not in fact particularly distant. And he hadn't been asleep very long. Groggy, he levered himself off the couch and went to open the door for Karen. She never was one to give up.

"Matt?" she asked, uncertain. "Were you asleep?"

"Was," Matt said abruptly. "Come in." He gestured her in, then made a beeline back to his couch, scooping the blanket off the floor as he lay down. 

She followed him cautiously, her heels making sharp tok sounds on the hardwood and slowing to a stop as she hovered near him. "What's wrong? Are you feeling sick?"

"No. I just need to sleep." Matt pulled the blanket over his shoulder, turtling into it. The blanket had been a gift from Foggy's parents, and Matt associated its softness with their kindness. 

Karen turned her head, inspecting the apartment. "In the middle of the day? It's so bright."

Matt snorted. "I hadn't noticed," he said. He could feel sleep sucking at him. 

Karen shoved his shoulder, then sat down on the coffee table, dropping her bag on the floor. “Matt,” she said.

“Mmmm?”

“What’s wrong? Can I do something to help?” She was leaning towards him, her hair swinging in front of her.

“Nothing’s wrong. I told you, I just need to sleep. Stay, if you want, but please be quiet.”

She was still, probably watching him, and mercifully silent. Then she stood, slipped off her shoes and settled into an armchair, rummaging in her bag for her laptop. Matt took this to mean she was sticking around. Not that it was necessary.

When he woke some hours later, she was gone. The apartment was cooling from the warmth of the day, and Matt could hear the sounds of a city moving from rush hour to happy hour. He changed from his sweats and tee into his nighttime gear, then paused in his bedroom doorway, scanning his apartment for what had changed. There it was, on the coffee table - a case file affixed with a braille note from Foggy. 

Matt made himself a coffee and sat at the kitchen table to drink it while he skimmed through the notes inside the file - there were printed copies of the depositions Foggy had been taking, with braille duplicates. Then he fired up his laptop and ordered takeout, and retrieved some electronic notes from the firm’s server. He listened to the notes while he ate, and even had enough time to make some preliminary thoughts and send them off to Foggy before he heard the first scream. He pulled on his mask and boots, and slipped into the night.

_____

Matt liked it when his sleep cycle matched everyone else’s, when he woke as the city eased into consciousness and he could take his time getting ready and checking the news instead of bolting from his apartment. Sometimes he and Foggy would walk together to the office, Foggy providing his usual mixture of gossip he’d heard, descriptions of the humanity around them, and worry for Matt, which usually expressed itself as merciless teasing.

When they entered the office on this particular day, Matt was laughing, trying to defend himself from Foggy’s claim that all Daredevil really had going for him was his ass.

“Morning, guys. What’s so funny?” Karen sounded bemused.

“Back me up on this, K,” Foggy said. “Daredevil’s butt is his most distinctive feature, right?” Matt made for his office, stashing his cane behind the door, then standing in his doorway, hands in pockets.

“Ah...” Karen said. “I suppose? I mean, it’s not like we can get to see much of the rest of him.”

“Exactly! Who wears a piece of fabric over their face, anyway? I mean, really, what’s the guy hiding.”

Matt shook his head. “Maybe he’s just shy, Foggy. Karen, what time is my first appointment?” He heard Foggy enter his own office, muttering under his breath about ‘flaunting that ass.’

“Right, yeah. Mrs Pagalay. She’ll be here in about forty-five minutes.” Karen picked up a folder off her desk and walked over to Matt. “Here’s her file.”

He flashed her a smile as he reached out to take the file. “Thank you, Karen.”

“Good night, Matt? You look… refreshed.”

“Yes, thank you,” he said. She was loitering, hands clasping and unclasping. Matt raised his eyebrows. “Was there something else you needed?”

“What? Oh, no. No. I just. You know where to find me if you need me.” She walked quickly back to her desk, sitting down and tucking stray hair behind her ear.  

_____

Days later, and Matt was dragging his groggy self up the stairs. He’d hoped in vain to attend a meeting in the morning, although he and Foggy had both known it was futile. He just needed to get his brain working in time for their 2 p.m. hearing, and he really hadn’t slept long enough.

Foggy and Karen were in Foggy’s office. It sounded like they were on a break, not discussing work. Matt knew he shouldn’t eavesdrop, but he had never claimed to be a paragon of virtue, and so he lingered on the landing, a floor below the office.

Karen was laughing as Foggy regaled her with the college story of Minnie. Matt remembered Minnie fondly - she had a warm voice and she smelled nice, and she seemed really keen to spend time with Matt, sitting next to him in Negotiation Workshop. He’d been working towards asking her on a date after finals, but after they’d handed in their written analysis she’d just… disappeared. She’d punched him lightly on the forearm and walked away. He’d known she was in other classes, but she’d never said hello to him again.

“It dented Matty’s pride. He was used to girls fawning over him, not using him for his brain.”

Matt’s pride hadn’t been dented. Bruised, maybe. Matt had been young. He’d partied, he’d got to know lots of pretty girls, and usually they were keen to get to know him better.

“Did he have a lot of girlfriends?”

“Not girlfriends, exactly. Just… girls. Many girls.”

“Women,” Karen said, firmly.

“Yes. Women.”

“Matt doesn’t have a secret girlfriend, now, does he?”

Foggy snorted. “I doubt it.”

Karen hummed, thoughtfully. “I just feel sometimes like he’s hiding something. You know?”

“What? Matt. No, no. Don’t be silly. It’s Matt.” Foggy started shuffling papers on his desk.

“It’s just that, you know, he’s not here as much as you. You’re always here by nine, but Matt’s stumbling in at 11, 12… He’s not working another job, is he?”

“No! Of course he isn’t. You know how committed he is to Nelson and Murdock.”

“You think?”

“I know, Karen. I also know he has other stuff going on, and I’m okay with it. And I know he’s not moonlighting at another firm. Or hiding a lover.”

“Okay. Got it.”

Matt pulled out his phone and sent a text to Foggy, asking him to let him know when it was safe to return, turned on his heel and headed back down to the street, in search of quality coffee. 

_____

Generally speaking, Daredevil had little to do after 2 a.m. Since the office opened at 9 a.m. this meant that, periodically, Matt Murdock had a prime window of opportunity to work undisturbed, while still being able to access all the usual resources. Foggy had joked that they didn’t even need to spend more keeping the lights on, when they both knew that that was pretty much the point, with Matt’s sleep cycle. Matt could enjoy the relative peace of an empty office, safe in the knowledge that he wouldn’t be disturbed. Reduced traffic meant fewer distracting vibrations, and Matt could more easily lose himself in his work.

So it was that Karen managed to startle Matt for the first time ever, as he sat at the conference table with both earbuds in. She had walked in, seen a shadowy figure in the morning half-light and screamed in shock. Matt was on his feet in moments, knocking over his empty coffee cup in the process, before realising who it was and that there was no genuine threat. 

“Sorry, Matt,” she said, stopping in the doorway, hand pressed over her heart, then turning on the light. “I just wasn’t expecting you.”

Matt skimmed his hand over the table to locate the coffee cup, and shrugged. “Thought I’d get an early start.”

“How long have you been here?” She walked back to the coat rack to hang her coat, then to the kitchenette to start fussing with the coffee machine.

Matt stood up and followed her. “A few hours.”

“Hours? You’ve been here all night?”

“I guess.”

“You keep a pretty strange schedule.”

“I know.”

Karen took his mug, and placed it together with one for herself on the bench. “You know, Matt, I’m not telling you how to live your life, but it’s easier on Foggy when you’re around more.”

“I know that, Karen.”

“You can say it’s not my business,” she said, waving a hand around. “But it kind of is when I’m here and I see how it affects him. How it affects both of us.”

“What are you trying to say, Karen?”

Karen carried over Matt’s mug and lifted his hand, pressing the mug into it. She didn’t drop her hand from his. “Matt, if you’ve got a problem with alcohol, there’s help available,” she said earnestly.

“What?”

“Your drinking. You come in late. Sometimes you don’t come in at all. You’re asleep in the middle of the day.”

Matt started laughing, and she let go, stepping back. “I don’t have a drinking problem,” he said.

“It’s not funny. When it affects your life like this, it is a problem, Matt.” Karen turned away, fixing her own coffee.

“It’s not alcohol.” Her silence radiated skepticism, so he schooled his face into seriousness. “I’m not an alcoholic.” He took a sip. Her coffee really was awful.

“I’m not an idiot, Matt.”

“I never said you were. Look.” He scrubbed a hand through his hair then gestured helplessly. “It’s… it’s a blind thing.”

"What? Being blind makes you a flake? Come on, Matt.”

“No, really.” Matt shook his head, then waved at her. “Your brain uses light cues to reset your internal clock.” He gestured at himself. “Mine doesn’t.”

 “Oh. Oh.” Karen turned around, leaning against the counter. “You've never said whether you have light perception, or not."

Matt sighed. "Well, I don't. It doesn’t matter for most things, but it messes with my sleep cycle. I knew I was going to be awake all night, so I came in to get my work done."

“You couldn’t get to sleep?”

“Nope. It’s like insomnia that shifts forward a bit every day. That’s why my schedule always changes. I really can’t control it.”

“Can’t you take something for that?”

“I don’t really want to take any medication. It doesn’t usually work well for me.”

“I’m sorry Matt. I just… I thought it was something else.”

“Clearly.” Matt shrugged. “I probably should have mentioned it, I just didn’t think to. And Foggy has known me so long he just knows, you know? He’s great about it, but not everyone is. It can be… disruptive. There’s more than one reason Landman and Zack was not a fun time.”

“I guess so.” She nodded thoughtfully, then pushed off the counter again, turning her entire body to face him. “I shouldn’t have questioned you. Can we pretend this conversation never happened?”

“Sure thing.” Matt could hear Foggy coming up the stairwell. He’d be expecting a handover from Matt, and Matt’s early departure from the office. Mercifully, the phone started ringing and Karen went to answer it. Foggy came in, and joined Matt in the kitchenette. "Morning," Matt said. 

"How's it hanging, Matty."  ”

“Good. Want to join me in the conference room?”

“Caffeine first, but yes”

Matt carried his cup back, took a seat and waited for Foggy to join him.

“Shut the door.” Matt listened as Foggy paused in concern, then slowly shut the door.

“What did you do this time?” Foggy asked.

“Nothing!” Matt protested. 

“I don’t know why you would expect me to believe that. Spill.” Foggy sat down opposite Matt, hands clasped around the coffee cup on the table in front of him. “How bad is it?”

“It’s really not me. It’s Karen.” Karen herself was off the phone and seemed to be idly moving papers around on her desk, while shooting looks towards the conference room.

“Oh god, I think that’s worse,” Fogy said.

“Possibly.”

“Okay. I’m wearing my listening face.” Foggy took a quick gulp of coffee. “Hit me.”

“Karen’s too perceptive. She asked me today if I’m an alcoholic.”

Foggy burst out laughing. “I hate to break it to you, buddy, but you kind of are.”

“Not helping, Fog. I thought she was going to ask about… the other thing.”

“Moodkill, Matty.”

“I know. She thinks I’m flaky, and that I’m not around to help you enough.”

“Yeah. She said the same to me.” Foggy tapped a finger on his mug. “Wait, did we to tell her about the sleep thing?”

“Apparently we forgot.” Matt shrugged. “I think she went with that as an explanation, but yeah. We have to be careful.”

“We both know that your hours are not an issue for me. Right?”

“Right,” Matt affirmed. 

“But I think a lot of keeping… him under wraps is going to be up to how bruise-free you can keep that pretty face of yours.”

“Fog-”

“Seriously, Matty.” Foggy took a big gulp of air. “I know we’ve been through this. Just… stay safe, okay?”

Matt fought down his argument, and nodded. “Okay.” He forced a smile, then gestured at the paperwork in front of him. “Let me get you up to speed on this, then I’ve got to go home to bed.” The thought of bed made him yawn. 

“You got it, Matty. Can’t let you miss your beauty sleep.”

[sworn-unbeliever]

16 - Lucubration

((For some context, Teremy + Reonora’s gang had their adventures in Norvrant and have all arrived back at the source here. Reonora had asked Teremy to work at Fortunes & Fancies for the next 45 days three months. So this entry is part of Teremy working there.))

wc: 1,859

Joey stood on top of the counter and cleared his throat. “Due to an influx of customers suddenly showing up at once and coincidentally wanting their commissions done within--” Joey flipped open his notebook, “--the next three days, I’m calling this morning meeting to organize and delegate tasks. So...” He paused again as his red eyes scanned his notes. “Reo, due to your knowledge of where everything is, and the nature of this job requiring many gathered and crafted objects from this and that occupation, you’ll be in charge of helping the free company do sweatshop--er, workshop stuff.”

Reonora tilted her head and patted herself, smiling. “You can count on me!”

“Teremy, since you’re a carpenter and blacksmith specialist, you’re the only one who can make these Tsukuyomi weapons. Specifically, the client wants a Tsukuyomi’s Moonlit Cane and Tsukiyomi’s Moonlit Great Axe. They already handed over the celestial kimono remnant. All that’s left is to gather the rest of the materials yourself and make the thing. Oh, and a manor cello.”

Teremy arched an eyebrow. “What does a manor cello have to do with anything?”

“The client wants it as part of their collection, I guess,” said Joey.

“And drying the wood?”

“I’ll take care of that. Just leave the spruce lumber with Rosemary and I’ll dry it out at some point within the next three days.”

“Sounds good.”

“As for me,” Joey scrunched up his face in a way only a lalafell could, “I’ll take care of the dance troupe costumes. Sequins. Why sequins.” He shook his head. “And Rosie, that leaves you to take care of the store. You okay with that?”

Rosemary nodded. “Mm! I’ll do my best.”

Joey clamped his book shut. “All right. You all know what you have to do. Feel free to ask me anything if you have any questions. Dismissed.”

Reonora picked up Rosemary, gave the plainsfolk a smushing hug and kisses to the cheek, then scoured Rosemary’s inventory for any items she had onhand. As Joey reopened his notebook to even begin counting the number of materials he needed, including sequins, he glanced over to see Teremy looking down at his own books. One hand on his hip, the other holding a book of carpenter recipes, the miqo’te frowned pensively. Joey was about to ask what was the matter, but Teremy spoke first.

“Tsukuyomi… you said?” Teremy asked.

“That’s right.”

“I can’t find any recipe that bears her name.”

Joey froze. “What? Lemme see that.”

Teremy moved closer to the counter and held out the book for Joey to see. Standing beside the miqo’te, Joey turned the pages of Teremy’s crafting manual.

“I see what’s the matter. You have the master recipes book? It’s the sixth one,” said Joey.

Teremy glanced at Joey blankly. “... master recipes?”

“You don’t have any of the master recipe books?”

“Unless these recipes fell out of my brain from years of experience, then no. First time I’ve heard of such a thing.”

“And let me guess. No folklore books either?”

“Such knowledge failed to fall out of my head the day I slept under a faerie apple tree. I deeply regret my error.”

Reonora passed by the two in the background, materials already collected. “He’s your protege, Joey. You agreed to show him the ropes.” She waved and left the store.

A chime rang as the door closed. All Joey could do was inhale reality, exhale frustration.

“I’ll start from the top and then tell you where to get them.”

* * *

Zhloe clapped her hands together and raised a foot, her face lighting up with such pure happiness that her smile may as well be the sun. “Oh, Teremy, these items are so beautiful! But no, I must think of the children. Thank you, thank you so much! This is not much, but it’s all I can give you.”

Teremy scooped up the armsful of yellow scrips. “Your happiness is enough. Yours and the… orphans…”

“Yes, and clothes--no, food! Ah! By the way, speaking of food, did you want to stay for dinner? I promise I’ll give you the bigger half of my portion!”

Teremy took a step back. “You keep your food for yourself. You need it more than me. T-take care!”

Down in the depths of Sui-no-Sato, Kurenai smiled politely and bowed. “Such splendor, such beauty. Your--” Her gaze quickly moved away from his chest to the objects in his hands, “--works never fail to impress me. Please take this gift of scrips in return.”

Teremy bowed and responded in Hingan, “The least I can do to help the cause.” Although Kurenai spoke Doman, he understood her somewhat as one who spoke a different dialect of the same language. And same for Kurenai in return. He hadn’t spoken his native language in awhile and doing so made him feel a little happy on the inside.

“I shall be looking forward to your subsequent return, if you will grace us with your presence again.” Kurenai bowed again.

“Wherever the wind will carry me.”

As Teremy turned around to leave, thankfully he had no clue as to Kurenai peering over at his two shapely ‘cloud pearls.’ All the miqo’te heard was a smack from Sanana’s hand. “Keep your eyes off the guys and on the prize!”

Thanks to the yellow scrips, Teremy now left Rhalgr’s reach with both the aforementioned master recipe book, as well as books of folklore native to Othard and Gyr Abania. One third of the battle done.

* * *

“Chromite Ore. A decent-sized piece of rock containing the metal chromium.” Teremy read out loud while dodging several demons. “Self-explanatory.”

Book in one hand, gunblade in the other, and with his face completely engrossed in the book of Othardian folklore, Teremy’s instincts took over in the heat of battle. He spun and weaved around any threat that dared come close to him in Haukke Manor. A couple of cuts from his gunblade was all he needed to disperse the voidsent from whence they came.

“Chromium. Difficult to discern from a single glance. Dark grey to black in colour. Slightly magnetic.”

The manor sentry screeched at him as his fire-endowed gunblade sank into its person. With an indignant flap of his wings, said sentry flew off to open the ritual spell blocking the door. But Teremy’s destination was elsewhere, namely the room of which said manor sentry hung out in itself. Teremy opened the chest and was greeted by two pots of manor varnish. Exactly what he needed.

* * *

“Rhea. A variety of ramie better suited to the climes of Far Eastern Othard.” Teremy glanced at the picture beside the descriptive text. “Compared to the usual ramie, rhea has smaller leaves green on the underside. Huh. Good to know.”

Teremy placed planks of spruce lumber by Rosemary as instructed. He petted her on the head and sauntered off to his next destination, his nose still stuck in the folklore book.

* * *

“Torreya Log. A rough cut of torreya timber. Then what the hell is a torreya tree--”

“Ignoring us would be your greatest folly!” cried Ascian Prime.

Teremy was sure he felt a tickle of… something. He merely summoned a small barrier around him in the form of a technique called Rampart and allowed the damage to brush off of him. Gunblade in one hand, book in the other like his previous run through Haukke Manor, his body moved on its own while he buried his face in the folklore book.

“Torreya, a genus of conifers. Spiky leaves. Destined to prick you before you prick them. Ah. All right. What a prick.” Teremy muttered as he stepped into a black portal for safety.

One he stepped out of the area, he found himself rewarded with enough poetic tomestones to appease Rowena’s employees. Bone charcoal and demicrystals acquired.

* * *

Torreya Log. The Lochs. Six o’clock. Teremy found said tree at the peak of its gathering time at some point in the evening. Thanks to the description, he recognised the tree’s needle-like leaves immediately. Hacking away with his patented axe--he trusted his faithful warrior’s axe more than he would a botanist’s tool, he acquired as many logs as this tree allowed him to have.

“Tsukuyomi’s Moonlit Cane. Three torreya lumber, two rhea cloth, 2 molybdenum ingot, one celestial kimono remnant, five demicrystal.”

Chromite Ore. The Peaks. Ten o’clock. Teremy brought a small magnet with him. When not latching onto his pickaxe, the magnet did do the job of detecting the relevant ore. Once again, Pick Clean, Blessed Harvest II, and as many ores as this node allowed him to have. He gave up with the magnet after awhile and left it hooked on one of the ores.

“Tsukuyomi’s Moonlit Greataxe. Three chromite ore. Two palladium ingot. Two palladium nugget… which makes how many nuggets? Hrm. One celestial kimono remnant, five demicrystal.”

Rhea. The Azim Steppe. Twelve o’clock. As someone accustomed to working with ramie, Teremy found the plant easily. Sure enough, smaller leaves green on the underside. Just like the other two folklore materials, he gathered as many leaves as he could.

“Manor Cello. Two manor varnish, one glazenut, four spruce lumber, four cobalt ingot, one dew thread. Interesting. Dew thread for strings.”

Teremy closed the master recipe books.

“Now for all the rest of that good shit.”

* * *

He returned to Fortunes & Fancies late at night. Reonora had locked the door, but Teremy had a key. He excused himself to no one on particular and turned on the lights as he entered. The planks of spruce lumber now laid by the side of the counter with a note in Joey’s handwriting. Drying done.

Teremy had all the materials he needed to start work. He rolled up his sleeves and pulled out his own list of items to make. Starting by propping the relevant master books up on the counter.

* * *

The fated third day had arrived. Reonora, Joey and Rosemary stood in front of the store bright and early. Reonora had no items onhand as all of her necessary materials went towards the free company workshop, but her clothes looked a little ragged and a few strands of white hair strung out of place. Joey dragged behind him a cart containing nothing but folded shimmering clothes and many sequins. Rosemary, who had to take care of customer service, had dark circles under her eyes.

“Have either of you heard from Teremy?” Reonora asked.

“I tried contacting him earlier but no answer.” said Joey.

“I hope he’s okay…” Rosemary looked down.

Reonora turned the door handle to her store.

The handle was open.

“Strange. I thought I had locked the door last night.” Reonora furrowed her brow.

Rosemary waved her hands. “Hopefully robbers didn’t come in!”

“Only one way to find out.”

The three entered the store. Thankfully everything seemed intact as usual. However, from the moment they entered, Reonora and Rosemary sensed a presence from downstairs from powerful, yet familiar energies. To Joey, who could only sense magic and therefore not this specific presence, heard soft, rhythmic breathing, also from downstairs. The trio headed downstairs and saw Teremy passed out on the couch. Beside him were all the items he had been requested to make, finished and gleaming from the highest quality possible.

[xiubaek-13]

Better Off Dead

Prompt: Namjoon + “Hold on, you died” “Yeah, well it didn’t stick.” + “I promise I won’t bite. Unless you ask.”

Setting/AU: Vampire AU

Warnings: Character death, swearing, implied sex, vampires

Word Count: 1,949

“Happy Halloween kids!” You aunt called out as both you and Namjoon descended the stairs from your apartment.

You groaned in unison. “Oh my god, please don’t!” You cried out. Beside you Namjoon choked on his laughter. You smacked your friend for his betrayal.

“Ow! The hell was that for?” He winced as he dramatically clung to his right arm.

You huffed. “You’re not supposed to laugh when she embarrasses me like that. I’m a grown adult, not a kid. Besides, it’s Samhain. Halloween is so… commercial and tacky. It’s a special day, not a day for dressing like a twat and handing out candy.”

Namjoon shakes his head as the two of you continue walking towards campus. “Do you really believe all of the lore surrounding it?”

This was one of the reasons the two of you had been friends for so long. He’d let you rant and rave on your soapbox until you were blue in the face. He’d listen to everything you had to say and when you were done, he’d challenge your logic with questions. It was so nice to debate with someone who didn’t just shut you down. “I mean, traditionally the day is to celebrate the end of the harvest & the Celts held rituals to thank their gods for their harvest & to protect them during the winter that was to come. They honoured the dead as it was considered a liminal time, and that’s where the folklore takes artistic liberty. Really it was just that Samhain was halfway between solstices and they considered the veil between this world and the afterlife to be thin, that spirits were free to roam the earth for one night. It was a peaceful celebration but somewhere along the lines it was twisted into satan worship and tales of terror - demons and ghosts and all of that. Don’t even get me started on the vampire stuff.”

He nodded as you spoke, taking in all of the facts you were providing. “I know all of that. The bonfires, the dancing, the fae folklore about being lured by faeries to their circles and never being able to leave. I asked if you believed all of it and if I’m not mistaken, you did not answer me.” His tone was always matter of fact but when he spoke with you, there was always a hint of teasing involved too, just to rile you up.

“I don’t believe in the ghost stories, the demons and faerie lore that associates itself with Samhain. I do believe the rituals for honouring the dead and thanking the gods for the harvest. I believe it’s a time for reflection and for celebration before the cold months come.” You replied. “I also believe that that answered your question did it not?” You teased.

He chuckled as the two of you reached the campus. “You did, but there is no reason to be smug about it.” He poked your nose. “I’ve got like 4 hours of class coming up so I won’t see you until tonight. That is if you decide to grace our Halloween party.” He grinned.

“How quickly do you think Yoongi will throw me out if I educate the partygoers about Samhain?” You joke.

“Try it and find out. I want to see THAT particular conversation go down.” He grinned. “I think he only just decided to start speaking to you again after you tried to take over his St Patrick’s Day party.” You opened your mouth but Namjoon held out his hand to stop you. “For the love of all that is good, don’t start this again. I’ve gotta run, come by tonight?”

“I’ll think about it.” Is the best answer you can give. It’s good enough for Namjoon because he smiles and turns to run off to class. You still have twenty minutes before your next class so you decide to grab a coffee, a decision that you instantly regret when you set foot in the cafe. “Fucking pumpkin spiced lattes and fucking lame costumes. Gods I hate Halloween.” You mutter to yourself.

Beside you you hear a low chuckle. You glance over to find Yoongi standing next to you. His glare freezing you to the spot. “Please, do not go off on one of your manic rants. I haven’t had my coffee yet and I will kill you if you screech like a banshee as those vapid sorority girls.”

“You hate them too, why not let me have my fun?” You ground out.

“Do whatever you want after I’ve left with my life source. Do it before then and Namjoon will have to bail me out of jail for making an attempt on your life.” He bites back.

“That’s an awful way to treat your fuck buddy.” You smirk. Your words don’t phase Yoongi and honestly you shouldn’t expect them to. You know how he is before that first cup of the day and it’s not pretty.

***

You never ended up going to the party, something you regret every day. You never knew that the last time you’d see Namjoon was as he ran off to class that day. You went straight home after your classes and collapsed into your bed, ordered pizza and binged a season of White Collar. You missed the frantic calls from Yoongi, the stream of messages from mutual friends as they tried to check in on you. Little did you know that the worst had happened.

They don’t prepare you for how to feel when you find out that your best friend dies. You expect that kind of thing to happen when you’re both 80 and at peace with the concept. You don’t expect it to happen when you’re in your early twenties, the prime of your life. But it did. Namjoon was ripped from the earth by a drug addict in a mugging gone wrong on his way to Yoongi’s party. The police told you he died quickly from the stab wounds but that did little to make you feel better. All you could think of was that he was alone as he bled out on the shortcut he always took to Yoongi’s place. It was irrational to think that if you were with him that this wouldn’t have happened but you still felt guilty for not being there, for not being able to comfort him.

You went through the textbook stages of grief, Yoongi going through them as well. The two of you had to cease your arrangement, agreeing that time apart to accept the loss of your friend and to heal in a healthy way was necessary. After a month the two of you started to catch up for coffee and lunch, just to chat and to get both of you outside.

Everything reminded you of him, certain places, songs, topics, foods. Hell, even the rain reminded you of him. You could have sworn that you’d spotted him in the distance a few times, only to feel that sinking in your gut as you reminded yourself that it couldn’t be him. Nights were worse because you could still hear his voice.

***

“Don’t scream. Just hear me out.” He said calmly.

You were anything but calm. Until twenty seconds ago you were peacefully sleeping. Then he shook you awake. You had to be dreaming because he couldn’t be here, he could never be here again. Your eyes widened in shock, you brain telling you to scream. Maybe you were seeing him when it was in fact a murderer in your room. You were too scared to even ask yourself why a murdered would wake you up so gently before you know, murdering you. He let go of you and slowly stepped away from the bed. With every step he took you felt a little more at ease.

“I’m just going to sit at your desk. When you’re ready to talk, let me know.” He said, as though this was a normal visit.

“Why are you here?” You started.

“I… well I missed you.” He said slowly.

“How are you here?” You asked.

“I still have a key to the apartment.” He replied nonchalantly.

You shook your head as you tried to sift through your thoughts.  “Hold on, you died.”

He shrugged. “Yeah, well it didn’t stick.”

He was too calm for this. You were freaking out because your best friend, who you missed like crazy, was sitting in your room in the middle of the night because he missed you. This would be less terrifying if he hadn’t died two months ago. You felt your heart hammering in your chest as you tried to process this conversation. “Namjoon. Don’t take this the wrong way but I’m gonna need an explanation here because you fucking died and you cannot be here right now. I’m either asleep and having the weirdest dream ever or I fucking lost it and had a mental breakdown.”

“You’re not crazy, but you’re going to hate what I’m about to tell you.” He smiled tightly. It looked like his smile but the feeling was off.

“You know what. Try me, because right now I’m processing that I’m talking to a dead guy so honestly, how much worse can it get?” You were pretty sure you were crazy but no one else was present, except for Namjoon and he didn’t count, to tell you otherwise. You made a mental note to self admit yourself as soon as this conversation was over or at sunrise, whichever came first.

He scratched his jaw as he avoided your gaze. Something he used to do all the time when he had to give you information that he knew would be poorly received. “The police report isn’t wrong, it just left out some vital information. I was on my way to Yoongi’s party when a junkie jumped me and stabbed me. I did bleed out in the alley, scared and helpless, but it was quick and my suffering was short. I said my goodbyes in my mind and asked the universe to look after you because I knew you’d blame yourself.” He paused and made eye contact with you. “There was nothing you could have done, trust me.” You felt a tear slide down your cheek as you heard the story of how your best friend died all over again. “What they left out was the bite marks on my neck that the junkie inflicted before trying to cover them up with the stab wounds. The also left out the part where my body mysteriously went missing after they locked the morgue.” He sighed deeply. “I woke up three hours from here in a cabin. I was confused and terrified but glad to be alive. I had no idea how I’d survived but the pain in my guy made me think I was still injured. I later learned that the pain was in fact, hunger. And that I hadn’t survived. Not entirely.”

Something clicked in your brain at that moment. “Fuck. Off.”

He chuckled. “Please, the cruel irony isn’t lost on me either.”

“Are. Are you trying to tell me, ME?! That you, Kim Namjoon, are a goddamn vampire?!” You spat out in a mixture of disgust and disbelief.

“I promise I won’t bite. Unless you ask.” He shrugged.

“I think I preferred it when I thought you were dead. Honestly, of all the things to be real, fucking vampires?! I don’t think we can be friends anymore.”

“I missed you too.” He strode over and enveloped you in a hug.

[tournesolia]

Chaos Lineage Yuma Chapter 3 Translation

Several days passed after I began

spending time in Yuma-kun's room.

I don't know if it was sadness or fear,

but I stopped talking to Yuma-kun

about his real memories.

There were some times where I would

be the prey of Yuma-kun's fangs even

if I kept quiet.

At those times, I clenched my teeth as

my heart suffered more than my body.

But the situation didn't change

even if I endured it.

As time went by, there was a greater

possibility that everyone will fight.

And one day, when such enthusiasm

raised, I was called by Reiji-san--

Place : Scarlet mansion – Living room and Dining room

Yui : (Every members are gathered. I'm the only one sitting on a chair... I feel uncomfortable when they look down at me)

(What is about to start from now on ?)

Reiji : Eve. As you may know, we are fighting for the supreme ruler throne

And it is said that you are the key to become the supreme ruler

Yui : Y-Yes...

Reiji : It's been a while since you woke up. Have you remembered anything ?

Yui : I'm sorry, I don't--

*Reiji whips her

Yui : Ugh... !

(A-A whip... !? Since when did he...!?)

Reiji : Will you keep acting ignorant no matter what ?

Yui : B-But I really...

*Reiji whips her

Yui : Hya... !

Kino : Isn't it better for you to talk ? Because there's no doubt that you know something

Yui : W-Why !?

Kino : Eve is the key to become the supreme ruler. If the person themselves doesn't hold the information, where else can we find it ?

Yui : I'm asking you why are you doing this !?

Kino : If you just woke up and don't recover your memories, a shock therapy is necessary, right ?

Shu : … You're also the one who thought of that bothersome thing

Yui : (K-Kino-san suggested it...? But I really don't know anything !)

Yuma : It's something like hurting her so she can remember ?

Reiji : It's better than doing nothing. If I can make you remember with little discipline, I will spare no effort

Yui : That's... ! I really don't know !

Reiji : … Then, let's change the question. Do you remember anything from before you woke up in the church ?

Yui : Before I... woke up... ?

(In that case, I can tell them... But will they believe me--?)

Reiji : It seems you remembered something. Tell us everything

Yui : B-But...

Kino : We won't get angry no matter the story. So come on, spill it

Yui : …

I was in a place called Kaminashi Town... I went to school

Kino : Heeh, and then ?

Yui : I met Yuma-kun there...

Reiji : … Yuma ?

Yuma : She's saying bullshit again...

Yui : Not just Yuma-kun. I also met Reiji-san, Shu-san, Ruki-kun... everyone

Reiji : My my... Is this some kind of fairy tale reference ?

Yui : It's the truth ! But none of you remembers... So I'm confused as well !

Your brotherhood relalionship, your memories, everything has been altered...

Something bad must have happened ! Please, believe me !

Kino : Hmm... Everything has been altered, huh

Reiji : This is not worth considering. Do you have anything else to say ?

Yui : It can't be...

(I knew they wouldn't believe me...)

(But it becomes painful when they actually deny it...)

Yuma : Hey, sow. Repent for your falsehood before you drive us nuts

Kino : What's that nickname ? It's not logical...

Yuma : What are you saying ? It fits her perfectly

Yui : (Yuma-kun...)

(If at least Yuma-kun could remember...)

Shu : – Quiet

Yui : (…!)

Yuma : Ah ? What's up ?

Shu : There's someone outside

Reiji : What ?

Yuma : Shit ! We're spied on !?

Kou : Oops ! Let's run !

Azusa : Y... Yeah...

*Kou and Azusa leave

Yui : (Kou-kun ! Azusa-kun !)

Reiji : They're from the Violets... So they started making moves. Kino, Yuma !

Yuma : Leave it to me ! I won't let them escape !

*Yuma leave with Kino

Yui : Ah, wait !

*someone grabs her

Shu : Hey, you don't leave

Yui : But Kou-kun and Azusa-kun will... !

(… get caught by Yuma-kun and Kino-san)

(Yuma-kun... It's not the same happy feeling from when his brothers messed with him at home. It's different from when they quarreled)

(These glistening eyes... are not like Yuma-kun...)

Scene change : Scarlet mansion – Exterior

Yuma : For spies, you really suck

*Yuma draws his sword

Azusa : … Ugh...

Kou : Aah-ahh... Looks like we weren't suited for that

Azusa : Sorry, I got us caught... If I wasn't here, you could have escaped

Kou : Don't apologize. It's not your fault

Yuma : Stop making excuses. You wanna get killed ? Aah ?

*Yuma attacks Kou

Kou : Guh... !

Yui : … ! Yuma-kun !!

Scene change : Scarlet mansion – Living room and Dining room

Yui : (I didn't want to see such a situation...)

(They're really against each other now... But this isn't right...)

Reiji : These two will be sent to jail. We will interrogate them there

Yui : (… ! At this rate, Kou-kun and Azusa-kun will...!)

(I may not be able to do anything. But still--)

Please, let me go with you !

Reiji : Why is that ?

Yui : Eh... ? W-Well...

(I must think ! Think of a convincing reason...!)

… I have the feeling I'll remember about the supreme ruler

So please, bring me with you to the dungeon

Reiji : …

Yui : (Please... say yes, Reiji-san !)

Reiji : … I see. Alright, then. You come with us

Yui : (Ah, he believed me... ? No, he must be doubtful)

(But it doesn't matter now. I must meet Kou-kun and Azusa-kun. So I can listen to what they say--)

Scene change : Dungeon

Reiji : Now... Let's have you confess. Did Carla instruct you to come here ?

Kou : No. We came here on our own

Reiji : I see. So in other words, Carla doesn't know you're being held captive right now ?

Kou : I wondeeer. Which one do you think it is ?

Reiji : Is Carla thinking of something ? What kind of trick does he intend to use ? What is his plan ? Tell me

Azusa : … We can't tell you

Kou : We're enemies, duh

Reiji : … I see. Fools like you will need discipline

Yui : P-Please, wait ! Stop using violence !

Reiji : Did I give you the right to speak ? Unless you remembered something ?

Yui : W-Well, that's...

Reiji : This is not worth considering

Yui : (I can't help Kou-kun and Azusa-kun in this situation after all ?)

Kino : Hey, big brother Reiji. Let me do it. Because I do that job well

Yui : (Eh ? Kino-san ?)

Shu : It’s rare that you ask that. What's the point ?

Kino : Nothing particular. But it seems making them confess will take time so I just wanted to help

Reiji : … Alright. I will leave this to you, Kino. Shu, Yuma, we're going back

Shu : Sigh... It was useless to just accompany you

*Reiji and Shu leave

Yuma : Hey, you're coming too

Yui : B-But...

Kino : Now, let's make you two confess... Yaah !

*Kino hits Kou

Kou : Uwaaah... !

Kino : Oh, you won't talk. Then how about this ?

*Kino hits Azusa

Azusa : … Ugh... !

Kino : Quit just moaning... I'm asking you to spit information !

*Kino continues to hit them

Yui : (How horrible... ! And they can't fight back because they're chained !)

Choice 1 : Stop Kino (White roses)

Yui : Kino-san, stop already !

Kino : Shut up, don't get in my way. Or you want to get hurt as well ?

Yui : I-I don't want to, but...

Kino : Then stay silent. You're annoying when you scream. Right, Yuma ?

Choice 2 : Ask Yuma (Black roses)

Yui : Yuma-kun, stop Kino-san ! At this rate, these two will... !

… ? Yuma-kun... ?

– End of choices

Yuma : …

Yui : (He's staring at them and doesn't move an inch...?)

What's wrong... ? Hey, Yuma-kun ?

Yuma : Those two...

Yui : Eh ?

Kino : You're deprived of freedom. Come on now, say something. While you keep your sanity

Azusa : … Don't... hit Kou

Kino : Ha ?

Azusa : Hit... only me...

Kou : Azusa-kun...

Kino : Ha... What's that ? Brother's love ? That kind of complicity irritates me

Alright, I'll squish you as you wish !

Yui : Ah, stop !!

*Yuma grabs Kino

Yui : (Eh...?)

Azusa : Ah...

Kino : … Yuma, what are you doing ?

Yuma : … Ah... No, that's...

Yui : (Yuma-kun stopped Kino-san...?)

Kino : They're enemies, you know ? Don't tell me you became attached to them

Yuma : … Those guys really don't know anything. You're wasting your time

Kino : Hmm... Well, whatever. I'm losing interest so I'll leave it to you

I'm going ahead. So be careful about the key to the cell. Okay ?

*Kino leaves

Yui : (Thank godness... They're saved)

Yuma-kun, thank you--

Yuma : Uh... Guh...

Yui : Yuma-kun !?

(He's crouching...!?)

*Yui gets close to Yuma

Yui : Is there something wrong ? You look pale... !

Yuma : … I can see it, now

Yui : You can see it ? What can you see ?

Yuma : I dunno... But some guys told me it'll be troublesome if we have nothing to eat...

So I was taught how to grow vegetables. That's why I began farming as a hobby--

Ugh... Shit... !

Yui : (Are these perhaps his memories with the Mukami family... ? No, rather before that ?)

Did you remember Kou-kun and Azusa-kun... !?

Yuma : … Guh... I dunno. What the bloody hell is that... !?

Yui : (It seems not... But he recovered a little part of his memories)

(His original memories haven't disappeared... They're still sleeping inside him...!!)

(He may remember. If there's a chance, then surely--)

Yuma : Haa... Haa... It finally cools down...

Yui : Yuma-kun, it would be best to lie down today... Okay ?

Yuma : Y-Yeah...

Yui : (Kou-kun, Azusa-kun... I would like to save them immediately, but even if they escape now, they'll surelly get caught again)

Azusa : Eve... Go. You have to make... Yuma-san rest

Yui : Azusa-kun... Okay... Thank you

(Even with his memories rewritten, Azusa-kun's kind...)

(I will definitely save them. And Yuma-kun, of course--)

Scene change : Scarlet mansion – Living room and Dining room

Reiji : So no one was able to get any information from these two, in the end

Kino : They're unexpectedly tenacious. Right, Yuma ?

Yuma : Y-Yeah...

Yui : (Yuma-kun still doesn't feel well. I would like him to take a rest quick...)

(I wonder if Reiji-san will give up on getting Kou-kun and Azusa-kun to talk...)

Reiji : I see... This isn't much helpful

Kino : Say, we don't need those guys anymore, right ?

Yui : Eh... !?

Reiji : Indeed. Shu, please kill them both

Yuma : … !

Shu : Me ? Too lazy...

Yui : P-Please, wait ! Reiji-san, why... !?

Reiji : We can't leave those who are a treat to our family alone no matter what. If we do, we will be at risk

If we can't get any informations from them, there's no need to keep them alive

Yuma : Wait !

Yui : (Yuma-kun...!)

Yuma : There's no reason to kill them. They're stuck in jail so there should be no danger !

Reiji : It's better to completely uproot sprouts that can become disturbing elements. Am I wrong ?

Yuma : No, but...

Yui : (If we can't counter them right here, Kou-kun and Azusa-kun will... I-If they can be useful for anything--)

… Hostages

We should use them as hostages. We can also use them as shields to fight Carla-san

Yuma : You...

Yui : We should take time to ascertain whether they're necessary or not

If we really don't need them... Then at that time, we should discard them

Kino : Heeh...

Yui : (That's right, any method is fine. If they live, I'll surely have a chance to save them !)

(There must be something that will shaken Yuma-kun's memories. I won't give up)

(I will absolutely restore Yuma-kun's... No, everyone's memories)

Reiji : Hostages... I see

You have a valid point. It wouldn't be bad to check the situation a little more and think about their use

Yuma : Then... !

Reiji : We'll keep them alive for a moment. Let's think about how we use them and determine an appropriate time

Yui : … !

(Thank godness...!)

Reiji : Well then, our policies have been decided. Let us dissolve for tonight. Please take a good rest

Kino : Okay okay, I'll take a rest

Shu : …

*Shu and Kino leave

Yuma : Phew...

Reiji : … Yuma

Yuma : What ?

Reiji : You must be glad to have a good excuse this time. However... There won't be a second time

Yuma : … !

*Reiji leaves

Yuma : Tch... That Reiji guy... He knows and gave me a warning

Shit... Why... ? Why I'm defending these two... ?

Yui : Yuma-kun... It would be best to rest now. Let's go to your room ?

Yuma : Shaddup ! Don't talk to me now !

Yui : … ! Yes...

Yuma : No... Sorry... It's a mess in my head and I shouted

… You're smart. I didn't think about that hostage stuff

But I dunno if that will save those guys... Why am I helping them... ?

Yui : Well...

… For now, you should go to sleep all night without thinking about it, so you'll feel better

Yuma : Yeah... You're right

*Yuma leaves

Yui : (Even if I say they’re his brothers, it surely won't reach Yuma-kun)

(But there must be something. I'll absolutely find a way to restore his memories--)

Chapter 3 : End

[horseluvr00-ff]

A Place to Call Home | Chapter 7

Masterlist Here

Rating: T+

Fandom: Marvel Cinematic Universe

Genre/Warnings: action/adventure/family | kidnapping, violence, strong language

Summary: It’s been a few months since the Battle of New York. Steve Rogers is acclimating to life when he crosses paths with teenager Katelyn Sanders, a SHIELD recruit and highly valued asset with a dark past. Follow Kate’s adventure from SHIELD asset to Avenger to wanted fugitive over the course of her youth and into adulthood with her Avenging family. Follows Infinity Saga and beyond.

Words: 9,468

Disclaimer: Majority of properties within this fanfic are owned by Marvel/Disney. My OC Katelyn Sanders, as well as a few other unaffiliated things within this fanfic are of my own creation.

Author Note: Chapters usually average between 6,000 and 8,000 words. Relogs are welcome :) Please no plagiarism.

gif source: @smartsnhearts

Full story available on FanFiction.net and A03 here and here

Chapter 7 can be found here and here in full. Go here to the full prologue tumblr post… So many options.

The most recently posted chapter on these platforms, chapter 12, can be found here and here.

Check out the first few paragraphs of Chapter 7 below:

BANG BANG BANG

Kate's eyes snap open, the noise echoing throughout her room as someone proceeded to hit the door again to alert her of them entering.

She quickly pushed herself up off the bed, turning her eyes towards the door as it was pushed open and two individuals walked in.

"Let's go." He nodded to the way out.

She pushed up off of the bed before walking towards him. Her hands subconsciously raised and he locked on cuffs before directing her out of the room. Walking down the hall, her eyes were on the floor mostly. There wasn't anything new to look at.

As usual, around once a month she ate meals with other recruits. She was unsure as to why. Other recruits ate meals in the cafeteria normally. She ate alone, mostly because her training didn't leave much time for meals throughout the day. Eating only slowed her down, so she usually received the essential nutrients from an IV pump or through other means. She had light foods on occasion if she didn't have training the following day.

As they got closer to one of the elevators, her eyes lifted to see Doctor Gordon waiting.

"You know the drill. No talking to anyone. Eat something and then report back." Gordon states, barely looking at her before he scanned his badge next to the elevator door and pressed the up button.

Walking into the elevator, Kate's eyes were down before the doors closed behind them. The two individuals who had retrieved her from her room were still behind her, a hand was still gripping her shoulder - the one who had directed her about the halls.

When the elevator came to a stop, Kate felt the hand leave her shoulder as one of the men left the elevator, the other walking in front of her to remove the cuffs.

She was quiet as they ushered her out and down the hall a few feet before they left her there and headed back for the elevator.

Kate stood there for a moment, alone in the hall as different employees walked to and fro down the hallway.

Clenching her jaw, Kate crossed her arms before heading down the hall. As she came to the end of it, the space opened up into the cafeteria. The sound of chatter picked up as Kate entered the space and made a beeline for the end of the line. She quickly grabbed a tray and looked up to meet the eyes of the employee standing there ready to take ID cards from the recruits.

She didn't have one. As soon as the man's eyes met hers, realization came over his face and he nodded for her to go.

Kate tried to keep her head down as she went through the line, grabbing some tiny portions of random food before exiting the line. At the beverage counter, Kate quickly grabbed a bottled water, mug, and snatched a random tea bag from the boxes available. She then found a table with no one sitting at it and set her tray down.

She didn't like sitting in the cafeteria. There were way too many people, and there were extra staff - armed staff - in the room because she was there.

Ripping open the small package, Kate removed the tea bag before placing it into her mug. Taking the water bottle, she poured half of it before placing it next to her tray. Might as well let it steep now, then heat it later. There was a small line near the microwave.

Kate quickly went to work on her food. She needed to eat quickly.

…. Okay, that wasn't entirely necessary. But Gordon would find an excuse to get angry, so best hurry to avoid retribution.

Kate had been with SHIELD for a long time. It was a little blurry every now and then, but she could put a timeline together in her head if she had the right headspace to think about it. She knew most of the employees, at least the ones that worked with her, and had her schedule down. However something had changed more recently and she was unsure as to what was going on. Doctor Gordon was rushing a lot. He was more anxious and seemed as if he wanted to get to a certain point in her training before something else could take place.

The sound of the elevator opening caused Kate to tense up immediately.

Crap. They're coming to get her already. Had fifteen minutes gone by that quickly? There was no way.

Kate tilted her head only slightly. Agent Hill was coming. Weird. She didn't usually visit the cafeteria out of the blue, unless she had superiors with her. There was someone else. Someone she didn't recognize. A man.

Kate was quiet as she picked at some of her food, zoning out the chatter of the room as she tried to pick up on Hill's voice. She seemed to be telling this man about the facility. After a few seconds, Kate heard a quiet ringing. A phone.

Moments later Agent Hill walked away and Kate shot a quick glance over, seeing the man standing there alone, looking a bit lost. Weird. Why was he here? Time for bad decision making.

Collecting her mug, Kate got up from her seat and headed towards the microwave. She got a quick glance at the man who was standing there evaluating the room. As she drew closer he seemed to eye her in particular.

Who was he? Dirty blond hair, blue eyes, strong build… Most likely a field agent. However there was something different about him, he didn't seem like the normal field agents that visit the facility.

Kate felt her hand gripping the mug tighten as she proceeded to walk closer to him.

Great, he's standing in front of the microwave. What could make the day better than having to speak to an unfamiliar and most likely green agent. Gordon would have her head.

"Excuse me sir," Kate cleared her throat and gestured to the wall behind him where the microwave was sitting.

At her words, the man quickly turned to see he was blocking the appliance and moved out of the way, giving her a small smile.

Kate tried to be respectful, but also avoid eye contact. She shouldn't be talking with anyone to begin with.

Placing the mug into the microwave she closed the door and put a time on the keypad before pressing the start button. The device began to hum as the table within started to slowly spin.

Kate hesitantly turned her eyes, seeing the man looking out over the room at the other recruits. By his posture, he seemed a bit uneasy, but also curious and observant. He was definitely new. But why was he here? She hadn't seen Agent Hill take anyone on a tour of the facility except higher up agents, the council- or whatever the Director of SHIELD called them. She had seen them before visiting once. They wanted to see her in particular since she's supposed to be of great importance to SHIELD's future field wor-

Kate's eyes dot towards the microwave as she felt eyes on her. The man was eyeing her. He was trying to be discreet… key word being trying. She waited a moment to see if he was planning on engaging in conversation or if he was just curious. Perhaps he already knew who she was.

Kate clenched her jaw after a moment, her focus on this man next to her as she waited for the microwave to finish heating her tea this century. How long did she even put it in for?

He was wearing a sort of all black tactical suit. It was different from others she had seen. There was a star on his chest and faint stripes. He stood very straight and seemed pretty attentive; probably from a military background.

"Excuse me, miss?"

God damn it.

Kate turned quickly, her hands already having gone behind her back as she adjusted her posture.

"Sir?" She responds, her eyes meeting his. She could tell almost immediately how he was hesitant to speak up.

"You're a recruit for Oriah correct?" He looked very hesitant, but his voice was pretty confident. His approach was very different from pretty much every individual from SHIELD she had encountered previously. All agents addressed her from a position of authority; however he was talking to her like you would a random stranger you stop on the side of the road to ask for directions.

"Yes sir, I am." Kate nodded in response to his question, trying to mask some of her own hesitation while talking to him. "What's your name?"

Ok he definitely didn't know who she was. While no one really told Kate what her stake was in SHIELD, she knew she was treated much differently from other recruits. They held her in high regard, she was valuable. They had plans for how she would serve SHIELD in the future. This man obviously wasn't aware of that. Which was kind of amusing for some reason.

"Katelyn, or just- Kate." That sounded weird coming out of her mouth. She hadn't said her name out loud in- a while. Hell, she hadn't really spoken out loud in a while either, so that was an interesting change.

"Alright Kate, I'm Captain Steve Rogers." The now named stranger held out a hand and Kate froze.

What the hell? This guy was a riot. He really had no idea about this program did he?

It took several seconds, but Kate finally held out a hand and shook his.

"Wondered if you could answer a couple questions? I'm a little new here." He chuckled.

No kidding.

Kate gave him a small nod as he smiled. He was a little nervous. He was hiding it well, but still. She could tell, no supernatural abilities needed. Wait- she needed to say something in response.

"I -uh, yes sir, Captain." She dropped her hand from his before turning them behind her back.

A beeping filled the air and Kate paid it no mind as she eyed the Captain.

"How uh, how long have you been here?" He asked.

Kate was quiet for only a moment while thinking over her answer. She was somewhat sure, but needed to give him the impression that she was pretty certain. If she was unsure, it might set off alarm bells.

"Coming up on three years, Captain." Kate gave him a nod, making sure to remain standing attentively while answering his questions.

"That considered a long time?" Captain Rogers asked, bringing his hands up to rest on his belt. He did the action so smoothly and without thought, it was almost like he did it subconsciously. His posture relaxed a bit, but remained straight. He was getting more comfortable.

"Not necessarily." Kate responded, eyeing him calmly. "I guarantee there could be individuals who have been here longer, but I suppose it's longer than most of the recruits here."

Emphasis on that statement. She couldn't really think of anyone who had been there longer than she was, not of the top of her head at least. There were some, no doubt about that. But Oriah was fairly new when she got there. It was small, private, and not on the large scale that it was now.

"And with the training you've received. It's been beneficial? Have you found it helpful?" Captain Rogers asked.

Kate clenched her jaw at the question, taking a moment to just stare at his curious and almost innocent expression.

"I- suppose so, sir." Kate says, still watching him as she calmed her confused appearance.

For the first time in a while, Kate was at a loss for what to do - Who the hell was this guy? No one talked to her like that. He was obviously very new to this program- hell, maybe even SHIELD. Why did he have to pick her? She'd get into so much trouble for this later.

"Captain Rogers, a word."

Crap. Agent Hill.

Kate quickly adjusted her stance and almost went rigid as she stood straighter, her hands tightening behind her back as she unfocused her eyes from Captain Rogers.

The Captain had turned away from her and was eyeing the Deputy Director of SHIELD when she turned to look at Kate.

"Sanders you can go, I apologize." Agent Hill waved a hand, giving her permission to leave.

"It's not a problem, ma'am." Kate quickly nodded before turning to the Captain. "Sir," She gave him a curt nod and waited a moment for a response.

Captain Rogers gave her a small smile before nodding in response. That's- one way to dismiss an inferior non-agent er- recruit.

Kate quickly turned and grabbed her tea from the microwave before heading for her table. She took a seat, remaining very attentive and straight in her posture. Until they left the room, Kate wanted to remain vigilant.

"If you're done breaking protocol, I have to get a report back to the director. I'll escort you out." Agent Hill spoke.

Kate's brow knit as she turned only slightly to see the Captain following Agent Hill. Seconds later the man turned and Kate's head shot back towards the table, but she could still tell his eyes were on her before he left the room.

Kate slowly looked back over towards where they had disappeared. Odd. Wait-... Damn it.

Her eyes shooting towards the clock, Kate noticed it was past her time to be in the cafeteria. Gulping down her now lukewarm tea, Kate threw the remains of her meal into the trash before she headed towards the hall opposite of where Captain Rogers and Agent Hill left.

Gordon wouldn't be happy.

The rest of chapter 7 can be found here on FFN and here on AO3. Take a peak!

Stay healthy, stay safe, sending lots of love. <3

Masterlist Here

[momsavvyus]

Welcome to Motherhood

THE TEST CAME BACK POSITIVE, NOW WHAT?

But, what if you're not ready? You don't know if you'll be a good Mom.. Breathe! Everything will be OK.

Whether planned or by complete surprise, I'm more than sure you are wondering what to do next.

Focus on the basics right now doing so will set the tone for the next 9-10 months with minimal stress.

Step 1. Schedule an appointment with your Primary car physician.

They will confirm the pregnancy and advise you on choosing specialists to help monitor your pregnancy. Some family practice doctors provide prenatal care and attend deliveries.

How will they confirm? Most PCP will confirm via urine and/or blood. Me personally I'd prefer urine but the reality is that sometimes urine will not suffice, be prepared for blood work. Make sure you are hydrated, drink at least 16oz of water prior to your appointment. Trust me, you will be glad you did.

Step 2. Take a trip to your local Vitamin Shop or GNC and stock up on Prenatal Vitamins!

Prenatal care starts in the womb, keep your energy levels high by taking nutritional supplements to supply you and baby with essential minerals needed as you both develop.

Pros:Reduce the risk of a whole array of conditions, from the annoying to the harmful, including:

Anemia

Fatigue

Leg and muscle cramps

Low immunity

Postpartum depression

Weakness

Low appetite

Skin irritation

Brain fog

Cons: Honestly there aren't many cons vitamins are necessary however you may experience heightened pregnancy side effects such as

• Nausea. To avoid this, opt for a chew able vitamin vs a huge pill. If you don't mind taking pills try taking your prenatal vitamin with food (and never on an empty stomach). It also helps to take them at night, so you are asleep when the nausea would potentially kick in.

• Constipation. You have the iron content to thank for this.

• A change in urine color or odor. B vitamins, in particular, may be the contributing factor, though these are harmless changes.

Recommendations:

Ritual-Essential Prenatal (vegan)

Natures Way- Alive

Honest CODHA Complete

Pink StorkTotal Prenatal Plus (vegetarian)

Step 3.Find an (OB-GYN) or a nurse-midwife.

Which is the best recommendation?

Such a difficult question to answer and so subjective.

But really the question is ‘what are you looking for in your doctor?’ since every OBGYN has their own approach. It is more like a matchmaking service when deciding who to choose. Research both to see which is best for you.

(Keep an eye out for a separate post going into further detail.)

Step 4. Get Business Savvy

Speak to your Insurance provider. These key questions will provide you with a better understanding of what to look forward to financially.

Does the policy cover prenatal care?

Do I need a referral to see a specialist/OBGYN from my primary care doctor? (more details in step 5)

Are labor/delivery costs included?

What are the co-pays, coinsurance, and deductible amounts?

Is prenatal testing covered (ultrasounds, amniocentesis, genetic tests)?

How long after delivery is my hospital stay covered?

Will I need pre-authorization to receive prenatal care?

What hospitals and doctor’s offices are within the preferred provider network?

Are non-traditional deliveries covered (midwife, home-birth, etc.)?

Are private rooms covered or will I have to share a room?

Step 5. Consider your health history.

If you suffer with any chronic illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, epilepsy or a previous antenatal complication that might require special care then it is wise to try and see an OBGYN who has a special interest in caring for high-risk pregnancies.

Some doctors will have a special interest in IVF pregnancies and twin births which is a growing field as more women than ever are having their first baby after age 35 and often with the help of an IVF clinic to conceive.

Step 6. Select a hospital or birthing center.

YOU ARE IN CONTROL!

Now that you have a better understanding of what your insurance covers

You can chose where to give birth whether it be in your home, at a hospital or at a birthing center.

Do your homework, know your options and create a birthing plan. Remember your baby will come when he or she is ready, they have a plan of their own. Learning to accept, adjust and advance will help you deal with the reality that plans are ever changing,

Your plan is simply a guide, you may experience road blocks, detours and at some point you may have to negate your original plan.

Obstacles are necessary most end up working out BEST case scenario. I say that to say, do not get discouraged! If your plan doesn't pan out exactly as you envisioned it. Remain open minded and prepared to adapt. This is where you begin to create your new balance. Everything will be just fine, you got this!

Step 7. Its all in your mind!

A happy, healthy baby is every mothers dream. Remaining stress free & in positive spirits is the key! A positive attitude starts with healthy mindset. Understand perfection does not exist however progression is what matters most.

Here's how you can stay in positive spirits:

Eating well: a balanced diet will benefit you and baby. ditch the junk food and opt for healthier options. There's an alternative for everything now a days so do not worry you can satisfy your cravings the healthy way.

Staying active: We all want to snap back to our pre-baby bodies, do not be afraid to work out during your pregnancy (unless advised otherwise by your doctor). You will be glad you did. Muscle memory is real and though you may not be able to see your toes at the moment remember it is only temporary.

Getting enough sleep: enjoy it while you can, because you will not get a full 8hours of sleep for at least the next 24 months. Do not feel guilty for taking that mid-day nap or sleeping in until 12pm you are creating life and beauty sleep is essential to maintaining that pregnancy glow.

Build your village: Its tough if you are the first friend in your group to become pregnant. Who will you talk Mom & Baby stuff with? Having support from friends and family is vital. If you lack in either department now is the time to be open to creating new Mom bonds. Check recommendations below.

Communicate with your Partner: Vocalize what you need from them during this time. You guys are entering this journey together and should provide support for one another. Make it a priority to attend appointments together.

Draw closer to your family & friends: Lean on them! Let them know you are entering a new phase of your life and will need as much support as you can get. Be open and inviting, allow your family & extended family to attend doctors appointments with you. Those you select will begin to bond with you your partner and baby on a more intimate level.

Take parenting classes: Enroll in prenatal yoga, and join meet up groups. You'll be surprised at the life long connections you'll make, not to mention you'll have a list of friends to confide in & eventually schedule play dates with. You can also invite friends and family to these classes/meet ups.

[inkprintt]

the one that got away.

Word count: 2.5k

Genre: Mafia Au, lowkey angst but not really.

Members: Jaehyun, Haechan, Mark.

Warning(s): none really unless you don’t like swearing I’m pretty sure there’s a swear word or two.

Authors note: Just beware of my writing, I’ve never written an au before and I’m not really sure how to so any feedback would be very appreciated. I really had no idea how to piece the scenes together but here you go! Also this was inspired by a tweet by jack on twitter his @ was hetphobeyoon but idk what it is right now

Today is the day. You’d been chasing mafia-leader!Jaehyun for months now and you’d finally managed to intercept a messenger and find his future location. As a detective you’d faced a lot of difficulties both in gaining respect from colleagues and losing members of the team. This however, was your most difficult challenge yet. Somehow in spite of everything the end of this case was finally on the horizon. The rendezvous point for today was a dimly lit, rustic cafe. The view from the outside wasn’t much but it was kind of cute, it happened to be the place you’d first seen Jaehyun. Your eyes screwed shut as you thought of your ex, a now mafia leader. You inhaled a slow breath and pushed open the door of the cafe.

The inside of the cafe was made up of small tables and booths. Towards the back there was a fish tank with crystal blue water and an array of fish. Right next to it was a booth, away from any windows and full of a ragtag group of people. To the untrained eye, they looked like a odd group of people, a confusing mixture of people. To the trained eye, they looked exactly the same. This odd group were your team, with them you had begun to solve the case of the mafia leader off the grid.

You grinned as one of them raised a hand in greeting. This ragtag group were like family.

“Hey.” You said sliding onto the seat next to Haechan as a chorus of hey’s and hello’s floated back towards you.

All together you were a group of 6. Two junior detectives Mark and Haechan, your boss Jack, and two senior detectives like yourself named Amaya and Starr. It had been extremely difficult to hide the fact that you had this connection to Jaehyun from them, but it had to be done.

“Are we ready?” You inquired, reaching for the coffee already ordered for you. Black, of course. Today was no time for cream and sugar.

“Well, it’s looking like its gonna be a rough night but we are definitely ready this time. Our sources are secure and we have everything we need.” Amaya spoke, subconsciously tapping her nose ring. Her dark skin seemed to reflect every speck of light in the room, she was truly beautiful and brilliantly clever. Seeing her on the field is always a shock to the system. She investigates with precision and care, you’d never seen anyone so perfect at what they do.

“Here’s a spare phone, this has all the necessary locations, emergency contacts and a recording device just incase.” This time Jack looked at you, carefully sliding a sleek phone towards you. At the moment it lay dark and silent on the table.

“Okay, shall we start then?”

He nodded, opening up his ipad and beginning the briefing.

You nudged haechan, smiling up at him. “ You good?” You whispered, he tended to be nervous before big missions like these.

“Yeah, I’m good don’t worry.” He said, his honey skin now lightly dusted with pink. You zoned back into the conversation a small smile on your lips.

“-You guys are gonna need to be careful, the atmosphere is going to relaxed, yes. But it’s our job to stay alert and stay focused. You know your individual roles in this bust.” Jack said his tone laced with caution.

“Starr, I’m looking at you in particular when I say stick to the plan. I don't care what ideas you have while we are on the scene we have one thing to do and we ARE going to do that if it’s the last thing I do. Now isn’t the time to veer off course, okay?” He spoke gently, allowing his frustrations to peak through without coming across aggressively.

Starr seemed to slide down in her seat slightly. Although she was a great asset to the group, she had an unfathomable mind and that led to her going in a completely different direction to whatever was planned. Her dark hair floated around her head, as if each strand was trying to hide her embarrassment.

“Got it.”

“Okay. Mark? What have you got for me?”

Mark looked up, pushing his circular frames further up the bridge of his nose.

“Alright, numbers are looking low. I’m guessing about 8 members at this specific party. So we need to think tactically cause like, they in theory out number us. We know that we are better trained than at least 5 so that gives us a real advantage going forward.”

He looked around at each of us carefully noting our facial expressions before proceeding.

“In terms of weapons, it’s not looking great. A meeting of this importance is likely to have people on both sides heavily armed. Y/N, i'm sure you’ve got our weapons and deterrent devices sorted?” His eyebrow raised slightly in question.

“Yes, of course. I've had everything delivered to your houses, you’ll see when you go to get ready. The club is going to be packed so we don’t have the capacity for much firepower. You guys are going to have to rely mostly on your training.”

Haechan reached into his breast pocket, and slid two grainy photographs on the table. One man and one woman, both of a similar age.

“These two will lead us to him. Find them, you find the leader. Find the leader? Job done.”

He lifted his chin, determination visible on his face.

“This is our only chance, let’s do what we can.”

* * *

The night air was biting and a shiver ran down your spine as you reached the entrance to the bar. You couldn’t tell if it was from the cold or something else. Fear? Anticipation? None of it mattered, the only thing you needed at this moment in time was focus.

You nodded at the group. Haechan sported a red, velvet suit not a hair out of place, his skin glowed as usual but this evening it seemed to glow even more. A shimmer glittered across his eyelids and his lashes seemed long enough to brush his cheeks casting shadows on his face.

Amaya and Starr were at odds, one wearing a white dress, a perfect vision of beauty and innocence, while the other wore a playsuit of darkest black embellished with blinking diamonds, a vision of beauty and mystery. Mark and Starr appeared to be entranced by Amaya. This made you smile slightly, they were so obvious. It had been so difficult to get mark a good suit but Mark’s simple grey suit and turtleneck suited his low-key vibe.

Lastly, Jack sported a simple all black outfit, with a plain dress shirt and pants. You had made sure everyone dressed accordingly. The gala you were attending was one full of finery and spectacle. You had chosen the only extravagant outfit you owned. You wore a deep red dress that reached the floor. A slit in the side exposed your long legs, and intricate detailing snaked its way up over your chest and up to your neck. The dress hugged your figure as if it were an old friend.

“Let’s go. “ You murmured, becoming aware of the people around you. At a moments notice, you all went your separate ways. Entering the building and becoming lost in the crowds.

The air was warm in the gala, carrying the smooth scent of night blooming jasmine. The further you walked the more your jaw dropped, the place was something out of a dream. Large marble pillars held up a ceiling covered in renaissance art. The large chandelier in the middle of the room sent shards of light bouncing off peoples glasses, giving the room an odd glow. The loud music made your skin tingle. Your eyes slid shut, images of jaehyun swimming behind your eyelids. It had been a long time since you’d seen him and now it was to arrest him. When you opened your eyes you located a bar and ordered a drink.

The bartender was a stocky man with thick dark hair and a some wireframe glasses similar to Mark’s. He handed you your drink with a smile and you turned back to the party leaning on the bar. Your eyes flickered over the brim of your drink as you managed to spot one target almost immediately.

“I see the girl in the photo, she’s like halfway across the room from me. I’m going in.” You spoke, hoping your earpiece was picking up the audio over the loud music.

You glided away from the bar, downing your drink and placing it on a passing waiters tray. The crowd was thick with people, not one person looked the same and yet they all were connected in the fact that they were filthy rich. As you approached you noted the girls appearance, she was indeed the girl in the photo. She was incredibly beautiful, her fiery red hair appeared to swim around her head as she threw her head back in laughter. The many rings on her finger glinting as she tugged a strand of hair behind her ear.

The knife in your thigh holster felt like it weighed a ton as you slid towards her trying to remain inconspicuous. Before you could reach the girl, a tall figure stepped in front of her blocking your view. You raised your eyes to the stranger, freezing when you realised the man who stood before you was the leader of the mafia you were here to catch but also your ex-boyfriend.

His ash purple hair shone in the dim light, It offset his brown eyes making them appear even brighter than usual. He stood with a casual grace as though he was a dancer trained to move with ease. You rolled your eyes before slowly turning around and walking back to the edge of the room. Tapping your earpiece.

“Guys, nevermind the girl, I see him. I nearly came face to face with that idiot.”

“What? Where?“ Haechan questioned, “Where are you I think I just-”

Suddenly, the sound just cut out.

“Hello?” You whispered.. no answer.

You tapped your earpiece once more before you felt a tap on your shoulder.

Jaehyun stood before you again. His eyes glittered in amusement, he was annoyingly attractive. A fact you had tried to ignore time and time again. Despite the nature of your job and the nature of his, you had history. A relationship that you could never go back to now.

“Have we met before?” His voice was deep and sensual, everything about him radiated confidence. He was stood extremely still, his velvet accented suit hugged his muscular figure and you struggled not to acknowledge the way he affected you even now.

He seemed to not have recognised you yet. You held your breath, staying silent. You were unsure of whether or not to make a move when you had no back up.

Eventually when there was no response in your earpiece you said simply,

“I don’t know, Jaehyun. Have we?”

His brows furrowed and then his eyes widened slightly as he realised who you were.

“Y/n?”

He began to lift his watch to his mouth as if to speak to his cronies. From one second to the next, you had tackled him to the ground, a hand on his throat slowly increasing pressure. You were sat astride him, his well built body tense beneath yours, thankfully there were no people in this area.

“You’re really trying to call for backup right now.” you muttered, nothing but loathing dripping from your voice.

“I have not spent all this time trying to catch you to fail again.”

“I can't believe I didn't recognise you. “ He said a sly grin on his face despite the position he was in.

He moved so fast your eyes couldn't follow it, next thing you know he was on top of you an arm holding your chest to the ground.

“I’m sorry princess, but I can’t have you and your friends take me to jail. That would be no fun don’t you think?”

He was so close his breath fanned your face. You smiled before reaching up to knee him in the crotch, making him keel over. He groaned in pain before slowly getting back up.

“You piece of shit. I actually can’t believe I dated you.” You began to circle each other, ever so slowly his eyes travelled across your body.

“You know I never wanted to hurt you. My job is … what it is and you knew that it wasn’t going to be easy. ” Both of his hands were in his pockets as though you two hadn’t been rolling about on the floor two seconds ago.

You ran at him aiming a punch at his jaw, but rather than the punch connecting he grabbed you and pushed you up against the wall.

“I’m not gonna hurt you so stop trying to attack me.” He sighed, running a hand through his now mussed up hair. His eyebrows were knitted together as if it hurt him to be in this situation.

“I regret what happened between us everyday, but there’s nothing I can do about that now.”

You were incredibly close to him and looking into his eyes was dizzying. His lips looked so soft and plump, if you could just- NO. Every time you were with Jaehyun your mind went places it should never go. He was like a drug you couldn't get enough of.

He gazed into your eyes as if searching for some kind of response, then his eyes flicked to your lips. You’d had enough. You grabbed a fistful of his shirt and pulled him towards you. Your lips met tentatively at first, he tasted like fresh mint and old memories. After a moment, he melted into your lips and you began to move in sync. You could feel his heart pounding against yours. His hands lifted from beside the wall and pulled you ever so closer to him as you leaned into his touch. For a moment, you forgot why you were at the gala, who he was and who you were. For a moment you were just a girl and a boy.

That moment was cut short however as Haechan walked in and yelled “What the hell are you doing?”

The two of you broke apart as fast as you came together. You put your hand over your mouth, in shock, but also to hide your swollen lips. You both glanced at each other, Jaehyun's eyes twinkled as if he was holding in a laugh.

“Uh, keeping my enemies closer?” You blurted, immediately wanting to throw yourself off the nearest balcony as the rest of your team joined Haechan.

[neo-culture-taste]

Abeilles au Printemps - 4.5 🐝

Alternate Title: Bees in Spring

Genre: AU, romance, drama, comedy, smut

Summary: He wanted you back and you wanted nothing to do with him. But your ex-boyfriend was like a drug and you often found yourself giving into the temptation. Because damn did it feel good. And damn did you know it wasn’t good for either one of you.

Pairing: Taeyong x Y/N (fem)

Rating: Mostly mature themes/ language. Sex (duh).

Word Count: 2800+

For other chapters, see the masterlist.

A/N: THIS CAN BE READ AS A STAND ALONE LIKE  A ONESHOT. YOU DON’T HAVE TO HAVE READ THE OTHER CHAPTERS. But you might as well because it’s a good read in my opinion, lol.

Likewise, this chapter can be skipped since it is just some extra insight into Y/N’s relations with Taeyong.

Taeyong’s persistence at getting you back had surpassed the title of annoyance. His reaction was the same every time you ran into him; genuine surprise and absolute disbelief that you were standing there before him. You were almost like a dream to him, ephemeral and fleeting. If he kept his eyes closed for too long and opened them again, you'd be gone. So of course he wanted to do anything he could to persuade you back into his arms. Text messages and voicemails from him filtered into your inboxes everyday, and you didn't respond to a single one--sometimes viewing or listening to them at your leisure if not ignoring them completely.

You made an effort to never go to his side of town for anything unless absolutely necessary, like if you had to meet a client, or…if you had to go to that one particular mall because it had a specific store you wanted to shop from. You knew it was a bad idea to go. And it was confirmed to be one when you ran into him, who had just so happened to be buying a pair of shoes on the same day you were.

That was your first mistake.

Taeyong spotted you immediately, making his way over to you as quickly as he always did. He got very close, well into your personal space. He tried to hug you, but you took a step back, declining any sort of physical contact, though he was still close enough for you to smell the coffee and cigarettes on his breath.

“It's rare I see you this soon after one of your disappearing acts,” he said to you. He was wearing a small smile, the fondness in his gaze ever apparent. “I think fate is pulling us back together again.”

It took everything in you not to roll your eyes. You wanted to get rid of him for good. To get it through his thick skull that you didn't want to be his girlfriend ever again. “You know I have a boyfriend,” you reminded him, hoping that today he would finally get the hint.

“That didn't stop you from riding my dick all those other times,” he blared rather confidently.

You sputtered, choking on your spit at his crass declaration. Quickly grabbing him by the sleeve of his leather jacket while leering at a judgemental lady passing by with her millions of shopping bags, you dragged him into a nearby record store that was playing loud music with the idea that it would drown out your now hushed conversation. You didn't really want to talk about this in the middle of a busy mall. Anyone who knew you knew how much you valued your privacy. But you really wanted him to just go away and leave you alone--so you could leave him alone.

“I didn't have a boyfriend then,” you told him.

“But you did last week when you were bent over the back of my couch.” Touché, Taeyong. Touché.

Sighing heavily you pinched the bridge of your nose in exasperation. He was a burden, really. A burden you inflicted upon yourself repeatedly. As much as you wanted him to leave you alone, you weren't really doing much to keep him away. Sometimes you couldn't resist him, and when an opportunity presented itself you let him lure you into his bed--not that it required much work for him to do it. But as soon as you got what you wanted you would disappear again, and continue to reject his notions of ever winning you back. You wanted him to get over you--to give up hope and let you kick him to the curb and stay on the curb already.

“You came over to see me,” he continued. “That meant that you wanted to see me. Why else would you come?” He wasn't wrong but he wasn't right either. And you had a very simple answer to his question.

“For sex, Taeyong.”

“Because you still want me,” he said as a matter of fact.

Okay. You were over this now. It was time to leave him alone once and for all. “Taeyong, I already told you--”

You stopped mid sentence upon locking eyes with a man standing a distance behind Taeyong on the other side of the walkway. Unconsciously your hand went to grab at the bottom of his shirt and you fisted it tightly in your palm. Perplexed, Taeyong twisted his body around to see just what had grabbed your attention so abruptly, only to have himself lock eyes with the man that hated the two of you the most. The ex-boyfriend you left for Taeyong.

Eyes narrowing, he turned back to you and peered down at your own pissed off expression. Your hand was still holding onto his shirt and he quickly put the actions of your behavior together.

“You went back to him, too, didn't you?” Taeyong questioned.

Your eyes snapped back to look up at him and you said nothing, confirming his assumption.

“And he did the same shit he did to you before.” You weren't the only one angered now. Taeyong was ready to do something you knew would turn out with the guy thirty feet behind him in the hospital.

“Taeyong--”

“Hold on a minute while I go punch his fucking face in--”

“No!” You grabbed onto his face before he could turn away, forcing him to look at you. “He's not worth the fight nor the lawsuit you're not going to win.” You let out sigh of relief when his shoulders relaxed and you were sure he wasn't going to jump the other man. “I'm over him.”

Taeyong was dangerous. Not only in the literal sense that made up his bad boy persona, but in a way that brought out the worst in the people around him. Especially you and your ex-boyfriend. Taeyong was the reason your relationship with that other asshole derailed into disaster in the first place. And you did high-key use being with Taeyong against your ex as a part of your revenge plot. So… you figured you could do it a second time.

And that was also your second mistake.

Taeyong took your hands on him as permission that he could do the same and placed his hands on your hips, pulling you in closer towards him. “So you don’t want to be with that dickhead. And you don't want to be with whatever loser you're with now.” You never said that explicitly, but it was more or less the truth. “Will you please stop playing hard to get back already?”

The asshole of an ex was still glaring at you from across the way, monitoring your every interaction with Taeyong, and simmering in his rage. The hatred was very mutual and you wanted to piss him off even more. So with your eyes still on the other man, and accepting that you were about to make yet another horrible decision, you moved to wrap your arms around Taeyong's neck and pressed your body flush against him.

Looking back to Taeyong you said, “I'll think about it,” with a sultry smirk on your lips.

Returning your smirk with his own, he craned his head to whisper in your ear, “Do you want to really piss him off?” Taeyong wasn't an idiot. Just a moment ago you were trying to get as far away from him as possible and now you were suddenly all over him. He was accustomed to this--accustomed to your games. He knew you were just using him to piss off your ex and that you would leave him as soon as you were done. But as much as he didn't like it, he went along with it anyway.

Because he'd do anything to be with you even if it was only for a short moment.

“What do you have in mind?” You didn't need to ask. You knew what he was going to do. And you knew you shouldn't have let him do it. He was willingly walking into your trap and you into his. That was how the two of you did things.

That was also how you always ended up back in bed with him.

Your lips met and you found yourself losing control almost immediately. It didn't feel wrong at first. It never did. It just felt good. It was always good with Taeyong. You knew once you started you wouldn't want to stop. The only reason you did stop was because a group of teenagers cat called and yelled at you two to get a room, reminding you that you were indeed still in the middle of a crowded mall on a Saturday afternoon.

Your ex had long scoffed and stomped away from the sight of you lip locking with the same guy who stole you away from him before. But you didn't even care about him anymore. All you cared about was the way the man with his tongue down your throat was making you feel between your legs.

Taeyong lived nearby and had walked to the mall, and your car was currently being used by your younger brother. Your brother dropped you off at the mall and left you to find your own way back home with public transportation. You hailed a taxi from a mobile app and made out with Taeyong outside of a department store while you waited, then made out in the back seat the entire ride to Taeyong's place. You tipped the driver handsomely for putting up with your horny bullshit.

Oh, and neither of you remembered you had gone to the mall to buy shoes that day.

The door was barely closed before you were pressing him to lie down against his ratty couch cushions, clawing at his belt to get his pants off as quickly as you could. You absolutely hated that couch and you had badgered him countlessly about getting a new one, and he insisted it had some sort of sentimental value. But even though you hated it, you were quite grateful for it and was astonished by it holding up against all the crazy fucking you two did on it.

Pulling his pants down, you freed his erection and it sprang to attention against him. Taeyong's eyes fluttered closed and he let out a loud grunt as your hand wrapped around him and massaged him slowly. Your core ached at the sight and feel of him in your palm and you couldn't wait any longer. Hiking the flowy skirt of your dress higher up your thighs, you lifted yourself over him on your knees. He replaced your hands holding up your dress with his in assistance as one of your hands went to push aside your underwear and the other went to align Taeyong at your entrance.

“Yes, baby,” he breathed as you sat down on him, in harmony with the moan that fell from your lips. “We fit so fucking perfectly.”

“Shut up,” you said, sliding your hands underneath his graphic T-shirt. You didn't want to hear him say how perfect it was. You could feel how perfect it was. “Take off your jacket. Gripping his sides you began to move your body against his, sliding yourself up and down his hard cock.

He lifted his torso off the cushions and shimmied out of his leather jacket, then tended to gently sliding the light cardigan your wore off your shoulders. His core strength was ridiculous. “So beautiful and so perfect,” he breathed into the side of your neck.

“Taeyong,” you whined wanting him to shut up again and from the rough and ravenous kiss he placed on your neck. The back of your head was held in place by one of his strong arms. The other was rubbing up and down the smooth skin of your thigh.

He was laying back down, your hand gripped onto his shoulders as you slowly rolled your hips into each other, your mouths in a distracted wet and breathy battle. You could no longer stand the the thin layers of clothing left between you, fisting the back of his shirt with both hands and tugging it roughly over his head. The last piece was your dress, the skinny straps sliding down your arms as he ungracefully yanked the bodice down your torso. Your breasts were now at the mercy of his mouth. His teeth grazing at your skin and his tongue dragging against your nipples. Your head tilted back as you let out a loud moan, the sensations bringing you higher in your pleasure.

“I don’t know why you wasted your time going back to that piece of rabbit shit,” Taeyong growled against your skin. “Doyoung can’t make you feel the way I do. No one can.”

“Taeyong, please,” you begged for him to stop talking, not wanting to hear any of it. Because he was right. There was no one else that could make you feel that way. Sex with him was uniquely Taeyong. It was uniquely for you. And it filled you up with so many different emotions. “Please just fuck me harder.”

“You know I'll fuck you any way you want.”

“Harder,” you choked out when he unapologetically began thrusting roughly into you.

“Of course, babe,” he managed to grunt before guiding you to lie down on the couch, opposite to how you were when you started.

He lifted your legs into the air and peeled off your underwear and the dress that pooled around your hips. Then with a hand around each ankle he spread you as wide as the couch's limitations allowed him. During the transition he had momentarily slipped out of you, you whimpering for his warmth to return, only for him to slam back into without warning. Your initial cry at the sudden contact was immediately followed by cries of his name as he rammed into you, deliciously filling you up with each deep thrust, knowing exactly where to strike his aim. You felt yourself on the verge of unraveling but you didn't want it to end yet.

Taeyong took notice of this. “Touch yourself,” he growled a command.

“No, not yet,” you answered breathlessly between your mewlings. You were currently occupying your hands with kneading your breasts. But that wasn't where he wanted you to touch.

“Come with me, Y/N.”

Fuck, you couldn't stand him. You weren't ready before, but after hearing the sexiness of his guttural dictation you wanted to dive headfirst into the intense pleasure you knew he could bring you.

Somewhat begrudgingly but beyond excitedly, you did as you were told and reached one hand to your core and stroked your clit. The touch of your fingers sent a jolt through your core and you bucked your hips at the sensation. “Oh, shit. Yesss,” you hissed in delight. You matched the pace of your hand with his thrusts and before you knew it you were becoming undone.

With a sharp gasp you unraveled beneath him, your hips arching completely off the couch cushions as you chased your orgasm. Taeyong was not far behind, the sight of you doing as you were told and the tightening of your walls around him caused him to reach his own peak. His hips shook then stilled as he came inside you, mixing with your own release.

Taeyong released your ankles and lowered himself against you to plant soft kisses along your jawline. “I love you so much, Y/N.”

And it was then you had realized your third mistake for that day.

You did love him, and that was why you wanted to get rid of him. You cared too much about him to keep hurting him when you knew it wouldn't last. But Taeyong was like a drug. He gave you a mix of adrenaline and euphoria like never before. However, you ultimately came down from the high and was immediately faced with the realization that none of it was true.

But damn did it feel good.

And damn did you know it wasn't good for either of you.

You wrapped your arms around him as he buried his face into the side of your neck. “I know,” you answered him. That was what you always said to him. Since you couldn't say the same words back to him and really mean it.

“Stay a little longer,” he said then pressed a gentle kiss against your neck.

He made you so angry with him--with yourself--for letting you do this to him. You made yourself angrier when you nodded, selfishly wanting him to give you more of him.

The two of you stayed like that on his couch for a little while longer. Completely coming down from your highs before he whisked you to his bedroom, where his name fell from your lips amongst breathy sighs and loud cries a few times more that evening.

And like a somber routine, you left before sunrise while he pretended to be asleep. Doing nothing when he was fully aware that you were making your departure. Hoping that one day, maybe, you would at least stay until well after dawn.

For other chapters, see the masterlist.

Oh boi.

Have a guess of who will be in the next half chapter?

- C&D

[dxmedstudent]

Dx’s Dating Tips #3 -The Profile

This post is about profiles as a whole - the bits and bobs that may not necessarily be in your blurb. Funnily enough, I started these posts months and months ago when I was still actively on those sites. Guess it took me a long time to hit my drafts and publish them, but I think it’s still useful.

 Fill in the most useful fields, but don’t wory about listing every minute detail. Some dating sites really seem to go into incredible detail, because data is currency for them. But think carefully about how much information you are putting into your profile, and whether it’s going to look overwhelming and cluttering and hard to read. For example, you can put your hobbies, but stick to things that are most important to you, rather than something you tried, once. But this also means you really should spend some time making your profile actually complete and worthy of being read.

And yes, this also means try not to overstate how much you do things. If someone decided to date you because they thought you liked rock climbing as much as they do, they’ll probably be pretty bummed when they discover you tried it once, took a selfie, then hated it and would never want to try again. Being genuine about what you enjoy is key to finding people with similar interests or people who will respect you for yours. 

It also means don’t understate things you do, either. If you smoke and drink, own it. Both those things might be dealbreakers for a lot of people, but you need someone who is compatible to you. For example, lots of people who like to go out drinking want partners who will share that experience with them, whereas people who don’t enjoy that particular pursuit might not want to spend all their dates being dragged round a club with their new SO and their friends whilst they all get plastered. Personally, I’m happy that the guy I’m seeing also doesn’t drink much, and doesn’t smoke; both would be dealbreakers for me, and equally, I wouldn’t want to feel like the ‘stick in the mud’ partner who doesn’t have fun. So I looked for someone with a similar definition of ‘fun’ to me.  I heard of couples where one partner pretended not to smoke for the longest time because they knew their SO didn’t want to date a smoker, and I just found that to be such a sad deceit. Give prospective partners an honest chance to see if you are for them. I was quite open early on about my shifts, and my current sightly nomadic lifestyle in medicine; I talk quite a bit about work when dating, it turns out! Really, I want anyone who dates me to know what they are getting into; I don’t want them to feel tricked. Anyhow, despite all my talking about death and medicine, and having less than ideal timetables it seems I can’t put everyone off, and I’m truly honoured to have met someone for whom those parts of my life are part of the deal.

Be honest about your attributes, including things like your body type and height. Yes, it’s  silly if someone will only date men over 6ft or women under 80kg, but nevertheless, you’ll want to look for people who will love you for who you are, rather than resent people for wanting something else. It’s pointless to argue with people about what they have decided are their preferences. So many men obscure their height on dating sites because they fear women won’t date a short man, and really tall guys say that women only really want a man who’s somewhere between 5ft 9 and 6ft 2 or so - above or below that, apparently people get put off. But if a woman’s that judgemental they’ll just probably get dumped after the first date, so ultimately lying is still pointless. I personally didn’t care about height at all; some people I met didn’t list their height at all and it didn’t faze me (yep, they were short, no, that’s not the reason there wasn’t a second date). But I think people being honest about their height, particularly if they are pretty short, or pretty tall, is a pretty brave, confident thing to do. You deserve someone who accepts and loves you for whoever you are.

This also includes things like whether you’ve been married or have kids by a previous relationship. Again, if someone isn’t prepared to deal with that, then they aren’t right for you. These are the kinds of things that work best if gotten out of the way early on, because the later you leave revealing big things like this, the more people will feel like important things are being concealed from them. This also means being honest early on (I’d say during messages or around the first or second date) if you’ve just recently come out of a breakup; be prepared that other people might want to take it slow because they aren’t sure if you still have a lot of issues from your last relationship, or they might want to wait until you have taken some time to think and heal after your breakup. For example, one guy mentioned his ex turning up uninvited to events during messaging. He effectively invited me to join his gaming group on a date, having told me that his ex still plays with his gaming group. Now, if I’m dating someone yes, I’d love to meet their friends after a while, but intitially you just want to get to know a person by themselves. I don’t want high romance, but I don’t really want to turn into ‘one of the boys’ after the second date, either.  And no, I don’t want to meet their very recent ex at these get togethers, nor do I want to replace her in his gaming group that soon; it all came across as likely to cause drama and hurt to everyone. I thought he would make a genuinely good friend, if I had the time to pick up new friends but I couldn’t see it leading to anything more. He agreed that he still had things to process, and I really hope that he has taken that time, and found that space and that he meets someone lovely.  A few guys confided in me that they’d only recently got into dating after long breaks from dating or after a breakup and I don’t think it makes you less dateable, as long as you can make it clear that you are now ready to date and are serious about it, and have gotten to the point where it won’t massively hamper your current dating. Alternatively, if all you want to do is dip your feet in, and you don’t want anything serious then it’s good to be honest about that too; because there are lots of people who are happy with that.

If you’re in an open relationship, be honest. And no, it’s not an open relationship unless your current partner is aware and OK with you seeing other people, and all prospective new interests are also aware of the situation. Keeping anyone in equation in the dark is wrong. Yes, that might eliminate a lot of people, since a lot of people aren’t into that, but lying is not cool, and implicating people in things that would make them uncomfortable is also wrong. Be warned that if you have no photo, or have really blurry obscured photos, everyone is going to assume that you’re either cheating or on the run from the police. I came across one profile where the only picture was the dude in a literal balaclava. I don’t know how he thought he’d attract a woman with a photo that reveals none of his face, but who knows, maybe he got lucky.

 Don’t lie about things like whether you want to get married, have kids etc. This is where acting in good faith comes in; tell people the truth, not what you think they want to hear. You need to find people who will want the same things as you, and people can’t do that if nobody is honest. Now, this is the real world, and a lot of people can’t necessarily fit their feelings into a neat ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer to those questions. If you aren’t sure, it’s OK to be honest about that; many people just want to see where things go, and that’s perfectly fine. Some people like the idea of these things, but really want to focus on meeting someone right first. Others are pretty sure that they want to be married in like, 2 years, tops, with a kid on the way. Personally, people who are super-keen to marry or have kids soon kind of scare me a little, even though I want those things, because I very much want to take things at whatever pace things come, so I struggled to know exactly how to put that across in my profile. Lying also makes things more difficult for everyone. Some people want casual relationships, but struggle to find others who are open about it. Meanwhile, lots of people who really just want casual setups (and mainly, well, sex) absolutely pretend that they are interested in much more, because they think people won’t give them a chance if they don’t go through the performance of pretending to eventually want a relationship. The thing to remember about people who lie is that it’s easy to promise the world if you have no intention of delivering. So it’s worth bearing in mind that if someone is talking about marriage and kids on like date 3, they might be very, very keen, or they might just be counting on the fact that’s what you want to hear. I wish I could tell you it was easy to tell the two apart. Having seen enough people get hurt by people who claimed to want one thing, but clearly wanted another, I have a hard time trusting what people write in these particular boxes until you really get to know a person.

I don’t think stating how much you earn is important, in fact, I wouldn’t. If you earn a lot of money, the last thing you want is someone who’s sought you out just because they thought you were rich. And yet, a lot of guys post pics next to shiny cars, mention how much their brand new house cost, and write about their summer homes and salary. Some of them even write explicitly that they aren’t into uh... people who are trying to take advantage of that. But that’s no use if your profile just reads like one long advert about how wealthy you are. I don’t know why people who are wealthy often feel they have to make it obvious, but it’s really not necessary. If you want someone to love you for who you are, not your money, then don’t hide behind your wealth, or use it as bait to attract people.  If you emphasise only what you bring financially, you will attract people who value you only for that. The easiest way to avoid that is just to be discreet.  I didn’t mention what I do or what I earn explicitly in my profile at all; only that I work in healthcare. I love and respect my nurses and physios; any man who’d date a doctor but not a nurse isn’t someone I want in my life.I’d never lie about what I do, but I didn’t think there was anything to be gained by boasting about it. I want someone to date me and find it cool that I happen to be a doctor, rather than someone to be dating me because they think doctors are smart, or rich or the kind of girl their parents want etc.

If you’re really stuck, I’d say that it’s a good idea to take a look at the profiles of people of your gender, to see what other people do, and work out which cliches to avoid. Looking at other profles  of any gender can be a great way to see the difference between an interesting profile and a dull one. You’ll find that the more you look at profiles and date, the more you’ll build an idea of what you like (and want) and what you really don’t.  I started out fairly neutral and doing my best to be forgiving, but  found that I gained strong opinions on what makes a good profile after perusing so many of them.