#wait for my dark urge lady darling

[all4yoi]

𝒮ins 𝑜f 𝒯he ℳanor ۰ sjy

𝑔ardener!jake x 𝓁ady!reader ⚹ cw. set in 1880s, angst??, fluff, mentions of arrange marriage, love at first sight??, jake is down bad, sunghoon punches jay lol, heeseung mentioned grahh, theyre just rlly inlove idk, toxic family kinda, not proofread

sypnosis: Y/N L/N, a lively aristocrat, finds herself in love with Sim Jaeyun, the estate gardener. Their secret romance defies societal expectations, jeopardizing both their reputations and family honor as they navigate the treacherous waters and the consequences of cross-class affection.

or in short, wherein Sim Jaeyun finds himself longing for the infamous nobleman's daughter the longer he works for their estate.

notes, word count is like 5.7k haha, i wrote this for 3 nights, anyway i rlly loved writing this! if you like it to, please reblog~

The day you were welcomed to the world, your mother has always told you how your grandmother washed your face with water that had rose petals in the basin with it. She had said that doing so will grant the baby beauty.

You weren't sure if that moment had any connection on your adoration to roses now that you've grown to a fine young lady. Usually, a smile would be adorned on your face whilst you stood admiring the roses in one corner of the huge garden you and your grandmother had built over the years, if it weren't for the fact that the roses were wilting now.

Their usual bold red color has gone darker and its petals drier. You could revive them, obviously, but you didn't know how. Your grandmother died three days ago and throughout your life, she had taught you everything you needed to know in gardening.

Now it looks like she forgot to teach you one thing. She was always quite forgetful.

Two warm hands placed themselves on your shoulders.

"Do not fret, my darling. Your father has already secured the assistance of someone who will restore your roses to their former beauty." came the voice of your mother as she squeezed your shoulders reassuringly.

You stood unresponsive before turning to look at her.

"Thank you, mama."

"He shall arrive by noon tomorrow. Let us return to the manor; it is growing rather dark."

With that, you turned your back on the wilting roses and walked away. Atleast, by tomorrow, one of the two things you loved and lost will be brought back. Hopefully.

-

"You got a job with the L/N's? That's huge! What will you be doing there?" Sunghoon, a friend of Jake's questioned eagerly.

Jake patted his trousers, removing unwanted dust that had clung on to him whilst he prepared everything he needed.

"Well, just some gardening, of course. That's what I was told. That's what I do for a living." he answered briefly before putting his sling bag over his shoulder.

Sunghoon scrunched up his nose, "That sounds a bit dull, even though I've expected it, but good luck! I'll see you around!" he says as he pushes his friend by the shoulders and jogging away from him.

Jake huffed and began his journey to the L/N Manor.

The walk was rather peaceful, greeting acquaintances he meets along the way and helping some when he notices they need one.

Looking up the sky, Jake came to an abrupt stop before coming up in a sprint.

He said he was to arrive at noon, and noon was approaching much sooner than he planned. He supposes it was because of the constant helping hand he had lent towards the people he came across with.

He should really stop doing those at the wrong time.

-

"You are tardy, young man. You should consider yourself fortunate that only Lady Y/N is waiting. The Earl and Countess are presently engaged in their duties elsewhere." An elderly housemaid nags, tutting disapprovingly at the sweating young man infront of her.

"I'm terribly sorry, really am." Jake spoked in between pants, he saw the housemaid's glare soften before he was urged inside as the elderly woman led him towards the back of the manor.

Jake could only gape at the size of the house, oh what he would do to live in a house like this.

His mouth only widened at the sight of a large garden where he was now walking into, the elderly woman still leading him somewhere secluded.

He spun around but continued to walk, admiring the scenery infront of him. There were various of colorful flowers like tulips, pansies, marigolds, lilies.. everything. He could spot a greenhouse in one corner, a pond in another, a fountain in the middle, and a maiden standing over a bush of.. wilting roses.

Guess he found his job.

"Lady Y/N, the gardener has arrived. Should you require any assistance, please do not hesitate to summon me."

And with that, Jake was left alone with the Earl's only child and daughter.

"Pray excuse my tardiness, m'lady. I was detained by.. an unforeseen matter." he spoke softly.

Turning around, you were met with big brown eyes staring right back at you. If you had noticed the way they widened, you didn't mention it.

Eyeing him up and down, you studied his appearance. He was dressed in beige trousers and a white linen shirt with its sleeves folded up until his elbows, he wore a brown sling bag and a small black beret sat on top of his rather long black hair.

Father would've nagged him for that.

"M'lady?" his voice was rather attractive, you noted. It suited his face.

"Pardon me, I was under the impression that you would be somewhat older." you sent a small smile as he scratched his nape.

"Ah well-"

"Please don't misunderstand me! I am delighted to be speaking with someone of my own age... You are of similar age to myself, aren't you?"

Jake broke into a wide smile, biting his lower lip as he chuckled. The heavy load on his shoulders seemed to have been lifted. You weren't like those.. pardon him for saying, brats, that he had worked with from the past.

So far in his life, Jake has encountered two noble families (your family being the third), considered that he was the grandson of the greatest gardener in town.

The Baron's twin daughters spoke in this shrilly voice as they constantly nagged him for cutting the stems of their flowers when he had only wanted the plant to absorb more water properly. He had been sacked the same day.

Meanwhile the Viscount's daughter only flirted with him any chance she got and when he had rejected her politely and respectfully (he didn't want to lose his job and ruin someone's reputation, also because he wasn't intrested), she bawled and at the end, he was fired and was forever banned from their manor. Not like he's planning on coming back anyway.

So seeing you with pure kindness and innocence written all over you, gave him a bit of hope that you'd be better than the previous daughters he had dealt with.

"Yes, I am, m'lady. I am Sim Jaeyun. Please, do call me Jake." he bowed his head lightly before stepping forward, now standing side by side with the pretty maiden. He eyed the roses, some were dying, some were already dead.

"My grandmother passed away four days ago; though you may already be aware of this. She and I planted these roses together, but since her funeral, they have begun to wilt. I am at a loss as to how to restore their former beauty." you spoke softly, brows furrowing as you crouched down and caressed one rose that was still of color and beauty.

Looking up at the attractive boy, you sent him a genuine smile.

"I do hope you can assist me, Sim Jaeyun."

"Do not worry, my lady; it would be the last thing I'd do."

-

The next day, despite the usual bright sky being covered with dark rain clouds, Jake had a small smile on his face as he began his journey to the manor he'd be working in for the next following months.

Not only was he going to take care of the roses, but he was also offered the job of maintaining the garden's beauty, regardless of its heavy responsibility he did not think twice in accepting the offer, maybe it was the pay that made him accept or maybe it was the simple love he had for what he does.

Upon arriving at the manor, he was immediately led towards the garden by a different maid this time.

Jake skipped over towards the rose bushes and began to do his work. He had noticed that you were nowhere to be found, he had atleast expected to see you hanging around in the garden.

An hour has passed and he was now tending on the marigolds, admiring its beauty and sprinkling it with some water.

He felt a drop of water on his eyebrow, then another on his nose. It was starting to rain.

Jake didn't know why his first thought was to run to the greenhouse when he was much more closer to the manor's backdoor. He followed his gut, and now here he was, stuck in the greenhouse as the rain echoed inside.

"Mr. Sim?"

Turning around abruptly, he was met with your wide eyes staring back at him.

You were wearing a custom made dress in a shade of light blue, it fell down until your shoes weren't visible. Your hands were covered in dirt as you stood infront of the tomatoes.

"Lady Y/N! How delightful to see you!" he greeted with a smile before it fell as realization dawned to him.

He walked closer to you, his eyes scanning your form. Now that he was closer, he could see some stains of dirt littered on your neck down to your clothed torso.

"May I ask what brings you here?" he questioned, looking at the tomatoes on a basket before averting his gaze back to you.

"I was simply attending to the tomatoes. This is how I pass the time, as there is little to occupy me within the estate." your soft voice could kill millions, he thinks to himself. He takes a handkerchief from his trousers and held out his hand.

"Do you mind if I..?" you stared at his hand and shook your head, bringing your softer hands against his.

He began wiping away the dirt, trying his hardest not to look up and stare at your face. Jake knew that you were fairly beautiful, but he was already crossing the line of holding your hand and tending to you.

For goodness sake, you have your own personal maid who's job is to do this!

"I did not anticipate the rain today; I came here straight away upon finishing my breakfast." you had explained, looking up at the clear ceiling of the structure and watching the rain drops fall.

Jake dropped your now clean hands gently before walking towards his discarded bag on the ground. "Here, I have a coat in my bag. You may drape it over your head and return to the warmth of the estate. It will be far more comfortable there than it is out here."

"And what of yourself? You're not intending to remain out here, are you?" Jake gaped at you, his mouth opening and closing as he swallowed down the lump in his throat.

Having no response from the young man, you added, "I shall remain here with you until the rain lessens somewhat."

"But-"

"I insist."

So with that, the two of you stayed together sharing stories of your own experiences, sharing laughter, and slowly building a bond.

As the rain slowly calmed down, Jake had thrown his jacket over your head and led you out the greenhouse. His arms were still holding on to the jacket to keep it from slipping off whilst your head was practically shoved in his chest.

The sounds of your laughter were silenced with the pitter patter of the rain as you two ran back to the manor.

"Lady Y/N! I was searching for you—oh dear! We must get you cleaned up before your mother arrives and sees you in such a state. Come along, quickly!" your personal maid whines as she nearly rips you away from the gardener's arm, not sparing him a glance as she took the jacket off your head and on to the floor.

You spared him a glance over the shoulder of your maid, smiling and mouthing 'thank you.' Jake was quite sure that you've brought his heart with you as you walked away from him.

That day, you learned that Jake had a deep connection to nature and craftsmanship. He was undeniably refreshing compared to the suitors your mother would force you to spend time with. He was authentic, extremely kind, and he longed for a life defined by passion and purpose rather than societal expectations. Just like you did.

-

For the past few days, Jake had been visiting the manor to tend on the roses and everything else. Everytime he did, you'd be sitting somewhere far yet near enough to see what he's doing. He would never admit it, but everytime he woke up in the morning, all he'd ever think about is seeing you.

If you weren't in the greenhouse, you'd sometimes be under a tree and have a book with you, maybe a tea, or your white feline friend, and sometimes it was just you and your pretty face.

Occasionally you'd even approach him and crouch down beside him, just watching the way his hands work on your precious roses. Maybe even share hidden caresses of each others hands as you two worked together on some days.

Today was one of those days.

"Do you see what I have done?" Jake spoke, gesturing over the basket filled with dead roses and leaves. "I have removed the roses that were wilting, dying, and drying. These were afflicted with diseases that might spread and endanger the remaining roses."

"I have also removed some of the weeds growing around the bush, as they might be competing for the nutrients that should be going to the roses themselves."

He only received an understanding nod and a small smile in return. During these moments, he had to hide the shake in his hands, not because of fear. He was overwhelmed, you were too pretty to be true.

Pausing in his words, he stared at your face. Memorizing each feature.

Then suddenly, he found his fingers tucking a fallen strand of hair behind your ear. You merely stared back at him, letting him caress you.

He was developing a crush on someone he knows he shouldn't. He'd be banished not only of this job, but possibly his house too. He knows it's impossible for an Earl to do that, but he'd be able to financially ruin him and his grandfather that would cause them to leave their warm abode.

As much as he wanted to pursue you, he could not, and he (somewhat) already accepts that. So, he'd stand firm and do the job he's told to do.

"It appears that you two are finding much pleasure in each other's company."

You immediately stood up and dusted your dress to get rid of the dirt that had clung to it.

"Mama.. I was only-"

"Inside the manor, Y/N, we have guests coming, and your father is seeking your presence." she cooly said, her cold eyes staring straight at the gardener who was now also standing.

The girl simply nodded, sparing a quick glance at Jake before walking back to the manor.

"Your ladyship." Jake bowed his head before meeting the eyes of the tall woman.

"I trust you have not forgotten your duties. You are to attend solely to the flowers; becoming familiar with my daughter is not part of what my husband has entrusted you with, am I correct?" she raised an intimidating brow at him.

"You are absolutely correct, my lady. I assure you it will not happen again."

"I hope so, especially now that she is to be wed to the Duke's son. You are dismissed for today. Good day." and before he could even answer, the tall woman turned her back on him and walked away.

Jake felt his world come crashing down.

As he picked up his gardening tools he couldn't stop the tightening in his chest, he knew he had no right to feel this way. He was a gardener, you were an Earl's daughter.

You'd be better off with the son of a Duke. You won't gain anything from marrying a gardener, someone who cuts plants for a living and lives off of minimum wage.

Closing his eyes briefly, he exhaled and slapped himself in the chest in an attempt to get rid of its tightness.

As he said, he'd stand firm and do the job he's told to do.

And that is to tend to the roses, and not become familiar with the only daughter of the L/N's.

-

"What has you feeling so low?"

"God! I didn't expect to see you awake gramps." the sudden voice of his grandfather surprised him so much that he had accidentally slammed the door of their home so loud.

"And I'm not feeling low, merely fatigued, that's all." he added and dropped his bag on a stool before taking a bread from their kitchen.

His grandfather squinted his eyes at him before clearing his throat, he opened his newspaper before reading out loud.

"Lee Heeseung, son of the Duke, is reported to be betrothed to Y/N L/N, daughter of the Earl."

"Gramps, you should go to bed. You need to rest; why are you out here?"

His grandfather merely tutts, shaking his head and sighing. "Don't tell me you have become enamored with the daughter of an Earl?" his strained voice grumbled out.

Jake clicks his tongue and rubbed the bridge of his nose. "I have not. What made you come up with that conclusion?" he asks, now looking at his grandfather.

"Don't look at me like that." he muttered.

"Like what, son?"

"Like you understand how I feel, as though you pity me." he replied, his eyes turning glassy.

His grandfather sighed, taking a sip of his coffee and gasping loudly after. "I would prefer not to have my grandson's head presented to me by the Earl one random morning. You ought to know better, Jaeyun."

Jake huffed in annoyance, chewing aggressively on his bread.

"I cannot help it! And it is not as though I could do anything about it. She is.. after all, to be wed soon." he spoke with his mouth full of bread.

"To a duke's son too.." he silently added before walking away and to his room.

The old man sighs, taking an old photograph he always kept on his chest pocket. He stared longingly at the girl in the picture who was smiling widely, a rose tucked on her ear.

Jake covered himself in his thin blanket, staring at the ceiling. There was no denying that he held affection towards you. You, who was a free spirit that was a stark contrast to the rigid expectations of the society and constraints he had experienced throughout his life. He had never met anyone like you—curious, admiration towards anything, and your willingness to engage with him and his work.

You made him feel seen and valued, something he rarely feels in the society you both lived in. You didn't care about money, you weren't disgusted by him when he touched you, you didn't push him away.

He loved you dearly, yet it was nearly impossible to have you as his.

-

"Papa, I do not wish to marry just yet, I beg you!" you exclaimed as soon as the Duke and his son has left your estate.

Your father merely glared at you over his shoulder before completely facing you. "You will marry! You should be grateful that they insisted on coming here rather than us having to go their estate!"

"But—why? You and Mama promised you would grant me a few more years after my 18th before arranging my marriage!" you argued, nearly in tears.

From behind you, your mother's nose flared in rage.

"Do not think we are unaware of your growing relationship with the gardener! My God, what would people say?" you turned to her, your eyes wide in shock.

"Wha-"

"Everyone in this estate has been observing you both and has not failed to tell us when something prosperous happens between you both. You are marrying the Duke's son, and that is final." your father walks away, leaving you with tear stained eyes as you hear your mother's heels click as she too, walks away.

Ever since that day, Lee Heeseung has begun to make his presence known at L/N Manor by visiting frequently.

Jake still had to work, your mother insisted that he shouldn't be sacked for her own reasons. Although, Jake already knew that she only wanted to rub the reality that he wouldn't be picked over a Duke's son in his face.

Everyday he came over to do his duties on the garden, you'd still be there, but this time with a tall handsome man beside you with your arms linked with him.

You'd still be sat under the tree, but there would be a man beside you with his arm around your waist. He'd still see you in the greenhouse, but instead of gushing over the fruits you've planted recently to him, it would be towards Lee Heeseung now.

Despite all of that, he continued his work until the roses he was tending to were now healthy and beautiful again. His work was now done, he had no more reason to keep coming back on the estate's garden.

Today was his last day. Although the Earl disliked him a lot now, he was paid such high amount for his last paycheck.

Maybe this was their way on telling him to move on and never show his face to them again.

As he was bidding his farewell to the beautiful garden, he was startled by a voice calling out his name. The voice so soft and familiar, his heart beat increased immediately at the sound.

"My lady.. If they were to see me- if they were to witness you conversing with me.." he looked over your shoulder as he stuttered, his heart beating too fast for it to be healthy.

"Come along with me."

"But-"

"I order you." Jake's eyes widened before he nodded.

He followed you, looking over his shoulder in nervousness. He was glad to talk to you and be in your presence once more without the Duke's son beside you, despite the risk of being seen with you- he'd gladly take any consequences (not really) just so he could see you for maybe the last time ever.

You led him inside the greenhouse and when the door closed, you turned to face him. Your former stern face was now worried and in sorrow.

"In three days' time, they are to host my engagement ball with Lord Heeseung." Jake furrowed his brows, he didn't want to know any of this. He had hoped you ordered him to come with you to bid your farewell or throw him a hug.

"My lady, you are aware that it would be most unsuitable for you to extend an invitation to me." he whispered as if someone other than you would hear.

"I am aware, let me talk." he shut his mouth real quick.

"I have little affection for this marriage; I intend to escape on the day of my engagement party." Jake wanted to jump in the air and scream in joy when the words processed in his mind.

He held back and tilted his head, looking to his side. "I understand, my lady, but surely you recognize that it is impossible? With everyone in attendance at the party, there is no way..."

Your frustrated sigh made cut him off. He gulped, he could already see where this is leading, and he doesn't know whether he's up to it or not.

"That is where you come in," you say, stepping closer. "I beg for your help. I am sure.. you would like to, would you not?" his face softened as he felt the warmth of your hand upon his cheek.

He inhaled sharply, his hand coming on top of yours as he too stepped closer. "I do, trust me. However, do not expect success from me."

The nod you responded with filled him with warmth all over, and with his heart controlling him, he pressed his lips to yours. Your lips was what he expected it to feel, soft and warm against him as you both moved in sync. It was full of passion, love, and comfort.

Pulling away, he rested his forehead against yours, his hands now on your waist.

"In three days time." he whispered.

"I shall wait for you." and just like he did a while ago, you pressed your lips against his once again.

-

Sunghoon stared at his friend as if he had grew two more heads. He was crouched down on the ground with Samuel (their small pig) who was drinking his water on a steel bowl beside him.

Meanwhile, Jongseong rested his dirty hands on his hips, looking at Jake with an amused expression.

"Allow me to reiterate your words," Jongseong said with amusement. "You wish for us to assist you in arranging Lady Y/N's escape in two days' time? How amusing." He scoffed and laughed.

Jake groaned, kicking the grass on his feet. "Do not jest! I am incredibly serious." he furrowed his brows.

"You can not be serious. And then what? She escapes and we face imprisonment? Are you listening to yourself, Jaeyun?" Sunghoon finally spoke, standing up from his position.

“I assure you, I am quite earnest in this matter,” Jake said with a gentle, resolute tone, his voice betraying his weariness at trying to persuade his friends. “I am relocating at her behest, and I would go to any lengths for her.”

He paused, casting a resigned glance at his friends. "Yesterday, we shared a kiss. Is that not sufficient evidence of my intent? Must I then demonstrate my affection before you in a more explicit manner?”

The three of them fell into a moment of silence. Sunghoon, visibly distressed, ran his fingers through his hair, while Jongseong, deep in thought, chewed his lip in quiet deliberation.

Sunghoon scratched his head aggressively before speaking. “Doesn’t your grandfather have a secluded cabin tucked away somewhere? You could take her there—no one would be able to find you.”

Jake looked up, his eyes lightening up before shaking his head.

“Yes, he does, but getting there requires a thirty-minute boat ride. Unfortunately, we no longer have a boat, which is why gramps no longer insists we live there.” he responded, obviously crestfallen.

Sunghoon looked down, muttering a small 'oh.'

Jongseong looked at both his companions, inhaling and looked at Jake straight in the eye. “Actually.. my late father had a boat. Mother no longer values it, so you could make use of it.”

Jake smiled widely, thanking both of his friends. Now all he had to do was tell his grandfather.. and make sure your escape would be successful.

To say that he was nervous was an understatement, he knew that the moment he utters the words "help" and "escape" his grandfather would deny immediately.

So here he was, eating supper across his grandfather who looked like he was getting chased down by a bear with how fast he was devouring his food.

"Whacha staring at for kid? Eat." the old man grumbled, pointing at his untouched plate.

Jake cleared his throat, “Gramps, the cabin you have—would it still be livable?”

His grandfather looked up from his plate, raising a brow. "'Course it is, I expect so. Left that ruddy cabin clean before I had to move here to take care of 'ya." the younger merely nodded.

The old man leaned back on his chair, exhaling. "What are you planning on, Jaeyun?" he asked, squinting his eyes at him.

"Lady Y/N requires my assistance in.. escaping her engagement ball in two days' time." Jake whispered, playing with the soup infront of him. He shut his eyes, ready for a lecture when he heard the seat of his grandfather moan against the floorboard.

Jake sighed in defeat. Even though he would have Jongseong's father's boat, he would not have the key to the cabin. It's not like he could keep the lady cold outside or in a middle of a river.

Before he could stand up and retreat to his room to come up with a new plan, his grandfather dragged a chair beside his and sat down. The older man's wrinkle filled hands dropped a key and an old photograph on the table.

“I admire your bravery, son. Had I been less cowardly, I would have done exactly as you have in the past.” he looked at his grandfather, who merely gestured towards the photograph.

Jake's nimble fingers took the old and worn out paper, staring directly at a woman who had a rose tucked in her ear. She looked oddly like the woman who has his heart in her hand, he thinks.

"That is Adelaide L/N. Lady Y/N's late grandmother." his grandfather whispered longingly, smiling slightly at the sight.

“What we had… was something society would not view in a favorable light. Thus, I let her go, despite her pleas for me to take her far away so we could live the life we desired together.” His grandfather sighed deeply. “I was overwhelmed by fear of scandal, and it overshadowed my love for her.”

"Gramps.."

“So, I will not tell you to stop. But I will urge you to be cautious. I have told you once, and I tell you again: I do not wish to receive my grandson’s head on a platter,” the old man said sternly, then patted his grandson’s shoulder and gave him a firm side hug.

Smiling gratefully at his grandfather, he leaned on to his side as he looked at the photograph still before taking the key.

Now all he had to do was take you away.

-

The day has finally come and so far it was going pleasantly, for your parents atleast. Everyone in the ballroom was dressed beautifully, congratulating you and Heeseung for your engagement. They were all convinced that you both were inlove, which was far from the truth.

You had been at it for hours, greeting guests and dancing. You had started to lose hope, maybe Jake realized that what you asked for was incredibly stupid and risky.

Just as you had fully lost all your hope, a sudden shout from outside took everyone's attention. It continued until everyone was now crowding over the entrance of the venue.

You gulped, it was now or never.

"Excuse me." you had tried to pry Heeseung's arm away from you, but he held on to you tightly. With furrowed brows, he looked down on you. "Where are you going? It is dangerous to go wandering around alone."

"I truly only wish to retire to the powder room."

"If you insist. Please, be careful." you only nodded as he finally let you go. You practically rushed to the comfort room, gathering your dress in your hands so that you would not trip.

Yesterday, you received a letter from Jake. Explaining what he had planned for today. You could nearly recite the whole letter if someone would ask you to for the many times you've reread the letter.

Dear Y/N,

Everything is set. I will not disclose in this letter what I have planned entirely in case this letter falls on the wrong hands. On the day of your engagement ball, my friends will create a disturbance outside the venue to draw attention away from you so that you could flee without anyone's watchful eyes. I understand your concerns, but please know I did not coerce them into this; they insisted, saying it was something they had long wished to do. Should this distraction fail, simply excuse yourself to the powder room, but enter the men's; there is a large window there through which I will be waiting. Once you are out, we will escape together to a place where no one will find us.

I know it is not yet appropriate to express such sentiments, but I must tell you in advance. If all fails, remember that my love for you is unwavering, I would give up my life for you if I had to. I am deeply grateful for your trust.

Yours forever,

SJY

Entering the men’s powder room, you felt a sense of relief when you found it empty; any unwanted company would have made the situation quite awkward.

Just as he said in the letter, there was a huge window and through it, you could see Jake who's worried eyes widened at the sight of you. You rushed towards the pane of glass, unlocking it and sliding it up.

Jake helped you climb over the window, and once your feet touched the ground the door of the powder room burst open. There stood Lee Heeseung, his brows furrowed as he looked between you and Jake.

Grabbing Jake's hand, you made a run for it as you both ignored Heeseung scream for you to come back.

You both continued to run, repeatedly tripping and looking over your shoulders every few seconds. The grip you had on each other was tight, no intentions on letting go.

Finally, you reached a huge lake and a figure waved you both over. “It’s all set up. You two should hurry; Sunghoon just got escorted out. The fool actually punched me in the face,” said the taller man, gesturing towards the boat and indicating his eye, which was beginning to swell with a bruise.

Jake nodded, patting the unfamiliar man's shoulder before guiding you to sit on the boat. He boarded with you and pushed the boat away with a canoe. Before the boat could go far, Jake spoke.

“Thank you so much, Jongseong, really. Please tell Sunghoon that I owe him my life!” he shouted, which earned a stern glare from Jongseong.

He merely sent a thumbs up at his friend and a salute to you before running away to avoid getting you two caught.

Jake now faced you, a smile on his face.

“I scarcely believed you would truly follow through.” you whispered, bringing your knees closer to your chest. The boy across you chuckled, biting his lip, overwhelmed with nerves and joy.

“I told you, I would do anything for you. Even if its the last thing I’d ever do."

[lemoncrushh]

You And I

Summary: Alyssa always wanted Harry, so every time he called, she was there waiting for him at the bar. But one night, things shifted between them.

Warnings: Smut, oral (f receiving), maybe a little angst. 18+ ONLY!

Word Count: 4.5k+

A/N: Originally written and posted in 2019. Harry x OC, AU, written in first person. Loosely inspired by the Lady Gaga song (not the 1D song lol).

He’d told me to wait for him at the bar. I sat at the corner, nursing a gin and tonic while the band broke down their equipment. I laughed when Billy Joel’s “Piano Man” began playing through the speakers, the line about the old man making love to his tonic and gin poignantly accentuating the scene.

“Fitting, yeah?” chuckled Bruno, the bartender I’d come to know well over the last few months.

I sneered at him as I stirred the little straw in my glass. “I dunno. I was thinking more along the lines of Lady Gaga.”

“Gaga?” Bruno raised a brow.

“Y’know. At the corner of the bar with my high heels on.”

Bruno’s shoulders shook with laughter as he wiped down the bar in front of me. “I’ll put that one on next, darling.”

“Put what on next?” I heard a voice call behind me.

I twisted around on my stool to see Harry stepping off the stage, an easy grin on his handsome face. I returned the smile, happy to get a better look at him. For the first time, the band had opted to wear makeup, something I’d urged them to try before but had never happened.

“You and I,” I teased, swinging one leg over the other. “The Gaga song.”

“Hmm,” he sounded as he approached me. Reaching his hand out, he cupped my chin, lifting it slightly before placing a soft kiss on my painted lips.

“I reckon when it comes to you and I, there will be no putting on…” he paused, a smirk causing his dimple to appear in his left cheek. “Only taking off.”

“Oh Styles, but you do have a way with words,” I quipped in a playful, faux accent.

He let out a giggle then, apparently amused by his own joke. He gave me one more kiss before tapping his hand on the bar.

“Bruno,” he said. “One more shot for the road?”

“Long as you ain’t driving, love!”

Harry eyed me, no doubt silently questioning how many drinks I’d had. In the two hours I’d been at the bar, I’d only had two drinks including the current half-drunk one in front of me. I’d watched Harry and his bandmates drink at least twice as much during their set, in addition to shots that fans in the audience had sent up.

“I’m good,” I reassured him. I was his drive home anyway. It was kind of understood.

With a nod, Bruno poured Harry a shot of dark golden liquid. Taking it in his hand, Harry clinked the glass against mine and downed it in one gulp. Lowering the glass, he smirked again when he caught me staring at him.

“Wha’?” he asked.

“Just looking at you,” I replied. “You look good with eyeliner.”

“Yeah?”

“Mhm. Kinda sexy, actually.”

“You think?” Harry stepped closer to me, loving the attention.

“Indeed,” I continued. Then when Bruno came around and took Harry’s empty glass, I asked him. “Bruno, don’t you think Harry looks sexy with eyeliner?”

“Of course, doll!” he agreed. “Sexy AF!”

I threw my head back laughing and Harry gave Bruno a wink. “Thanks, love.”

“Sing us a song, you’re the piano man!”

At the sound of singing, I turned around again to see Jeremiah, Harry’s drummer walking towards us. The youngest member of the band, he looked so much like Pete Wentz, especially tonight with the black eyeliner.

“All packed up, H!” he told Harry. “Ready to go?”

“Um...no…” Harry tilted his head to gesture towards me. “Alyssa’s here.”

Jeremiah looked from his bandmate to me and then back, the lightbulb going off in his head.

“Oh! Yeah! Right! Sorry, mate! I’ll just…” he pointed behind him, “head out. Good to see you, Alyssa.”

“You too, hon,” I smiled. “You were smashing it tonight.”

“Thanks,” Jeremiah beamed. Then with one last wave, he stumbled over his own feet and left the way he’d come. I giggled at his adorable awkwardness, blaming it on his youth.

Swiveling back to face Harry and Bruno, I took the last few sips of my cocktail which was mostly water by then. The first chords of “You and I” started then, and I lifted my gaze to the bartender who danced with glee.

“It has been a long time since you came around,” Harry quoted the lyrics as he slid his arm around my waist.

“Two weeks, Harry,” I chuckled. “I was sat right here at this bar two weeks ago.”

“Two weeks is a long time t’me,” he murmured, his lips finding the tender spot behind my ear. I giggled softly at the touch which sent goose flesh across my skin.

“I doubt that’s the time frame Gaga was referring to,” I said wryly. “Besides, you want me around more often, perhaps you should ring or text me.”

I heard Bruno make a muffled sound of shock from behind the bar as Harry’s mouth stalled on my neck.

“I reckon I should do that,” admitted Harry.

He stood up straight then, his eyes on mine as I gave him an accusing glare. It wasn’t that I really doubted he wanted me around. But sometimes I needed that reassurance.

“You look beautiful by the way,” he said, though his words were interrupted a bit by the noise of two more lads approaching.

“Alyssa! You made it!” shouted Gavin, the band’s guitarist.

I rose from my stool and hugged both him and Max, the bassist. Two females soon followed, and I noticed the one whom I didn’t recognise wrapped her arms around Max.

“I’m so glad you went with the eyeliner tonight,” I commented. “I don’t suspect you’ll allow me to take the credit.”

Gavin grinned, “Of course, darling, it was your idea.”

“No it wasn’t,” Harry jabbed.

I turned and poked him in the ribs. “Yes it was. Let me have my moment.”

He threw his head back laughing before pulling me to him in a bear hug. I could tell he was drunk, and I could smell the whiskey on his breath, the sweat beneath his shirt, but I didn’t mind. Some of our most fun times were when we could tease each other like this. Still, sometimes I did wish he would just be honest and tell me how he felt about me, rather than always being light-hearted and funny.

Gavin, Max and the girls all got beers from Bruno before he closed up the bar. We all sat and chatted for a bit before saying our goodbyes. Then with a look - that unspoken understanding - Harry stepped off his stool, reached for my hand and followed me out to my car.

“You’re different tonight,” he finally said after a long stretch of silence except for the 90s playlist I had going.

I raised a brow as I stopped at a red light. “How do you mean?”

“I dunno. You just...are.”

I eyed him and then turned back to the road. “I got a new lipstick.”

Harry chuckled and shook his head. “‘s not that. You just...seem different.”

The light changed and I accelerated, my heartbeat doing the same.

“I’m sorry, Harry, I don’t understand. I’m still me.”

I heard Harry hum, perhaps in agreement. He was quiet again while the music changed from Alanis Morissette to Pearl Jam. I wondered what he meant exactly, though part of me had my own suspicions. Then when I was nearly a block from my flat, Harry reached over and turned down the radio, muting the voice of Eddie Vedder.

“Are we okay?” he asked me.

I stopped myself from giggling, something I sometimes tend to do when I’m anxious or nervous. Instead, I bit my lip and let his question roll around in my head. I pulled up to my building and parked before I finally let out a tiny laugh.

“We’re always okay, Harry,” I said with a grin.

Pulling the key out of the ignition, I opened my car door and stepped out. I half wondered if Harry would actually follow, but as I stepped onto the sidewalk, I heard the slam of the passenger door. Meeting me at the curb, he took my hand and walked with me up the stairs to my flat.

“I don’t have whiskey,” I called after I’d tossed my keys on the table and made my way to the kitchen. “But I have vodka and wine.”

“None for me, thanks,” I heard Harry reply.

“What?” I turned around, my eyes wide. Harry always wanted a nightcap.

“Yeah, ‘m fine.”

“Oh.” Now he was the one who seemed different.

“Did something happen, Alyssa?”

Taken aback, I paused a moment and shook my head. “Something...like what? When?”

“Since I saw you last,” replied Harry.

I turned from him, pretending to walk to the refrigerator. Then I changed my mind and took a glass down from the cupboard and poured myself water from the tap.

“Lots of things happen in two weeks, love,” I commented. “I’m not sure what you’re referring to.”

Setting my untouched glass on the counter, I looked back at him. His face was expressionless, though his eyes seemed to reveal a bit more. Perhaps it was the makeup. No wonder they call the look “emo”.

“Tell me,” Harry said softly.

“Oh, so now you wanna talk?” I accused.

He stared at me blankly. “Yeah, baby.”

I snorted. “So, I’m baby now?”

“Alyssa…”

Ignoring the tone of his voice, I sighed and looked away.

“Let’s see…” I began. “I’ve been working a lot. Visited my mum last Saturday. Got my nails done. And bought the new lipstick like I mentioned...oh and I got a new succulent, see?” I reached for my newest addition to my cactus collection to show him. “I’ve named this one Prince because he has a bit of a purple hue to him-”

“I’m sorry,” he interrupted.

I stared at him, frozen. “Sorry? For what?”

Harry stepped closer to me, taking Prince from my hands and setting it on the counter. “I’m sorry I waited two weeks to ring you.”

“Oh.” I blinked.

Sliding his hands around my waist, he pulled me to him. Tilting his head, he pressed his lips to mine, softly at first. When I responded with my hands sliding up his shoulders, he kissed me harder, with purpose.

“I do like the new lipstick,” he murmured against my lips. I grinned when I noticed some of it had rubbed off onto him.

“You have such pretty lips,” he added, his eyes focused on my mouth. “First thing I wanna do when I see you is kiss them.”

I smiled at his comment, not just from flattery but because I’d always felt the same about his.

“I also meant it when I said you looked beautiful.”

“Thank you,” I whispered. “So do you.”

Harry grinned then, a sexy smirk. “You like the eyeliner, yeah?”

“I really do,” I nodded. “I think you should wear it more often.”

“I will if you come ‘round more often.”

“You have to ring me, Styles,” I reminded him. “I have a life, you know. As much as you may like to think otherwise, I don’t keep up with your schedule.”

“Maybe I should give it to you,” Harry said, his voice deep with no trace of humour as his hands roamed down to my bum. I couldn’t help but giggle.

“My schedule, I mean,” he added with his own chuckle. “God, woman, what are you doing to me?”

“Me?” I raised a brow.

“Yes, you. You get me all flustered, I dunno what I’m saying.”

“I’m just stood here, Harry.”

“That’s enough.”

I studied his face, trying my best to read his eyes. The green seemed more defined with the black liner, and for a split second I felt my stomach flip. I lifted my hand to touch a curl that had fallen across his forehead and heard him release a breath.

The man was definitely a mystery. For months I’d shown up here or there to see his band play. In between we might’ve had a few dates, but I never felt like what we had was anything serious. We always ended up shagging, and it wasn’t like I regretted it. We definitely had that chemistry, and we were good in bed. But I didn’t think he considered me his girlfriend; I didn’t think he considered me at all. At least, not until he was ready to see me again. And like always, I would be there when he wanted, because I really liked him.

But then he’d turn around and say something like this and I’d get all kinds of confused.

As it was, I had a hard time concentrating myself with his hands on my rear end. His lined eyes kept shifting between my own eyes and my mouth, and I could tell he wanted to kiss me again. This time, however, I was the one to give in, reaching for his neck and pulling him to me.

“Mmm, baby…” he moaned against my lips. He’d called me baby a handful of times before, but it never really meant much to me like it did now. I wasn’t sure exactly what it was...perhaps I was wanting him to feel what I felt. Or just...something.

I let my fingers linger on his chest before I began to unbutton his shirt. I knew where this was headed, but I wasn’t about to stop it. Feelings or no feelings, I wanted him in my bed again.

When I reached the bottom button, our lips broke free and Harry stared at me once again, his eyes now full of desire. At least I had a knack for reading that. Just like in the pub, I took his hand with an unspoken understanding and we walked down the hall to my bedroom.

“You got new sheets,” Harry commented.

I cringed, not sure if I was more embarrassed that I’d left my bed unmade or that he’d been there enough times to notice the sheets were different. Nervously I straightened the pillows before reaching behind me to unzip my dress.

“Let me,” I heard Harry say.

He strode across the room to me, his fingers on the zipper before I could protest. When my dress fell off my shoulders, his hands took its place, pushing it down the rest of the way. I felt the chills down to my toes as I stepped out of my heels and turned to face him.

I reckon I expected him to gawk at me some more like he’d been doing all evening, so I was completely surprised when his mouth crashed into mine. I immediately wound my arms around his neck and he lifted me up and onto the bed. He continued his assault on my mouth while his fingers tangled in my hair at the sides of my head. I could feel his erection through his jeans, the friction a fabulous sensation between my legs. Bending my knees, I lifted my hips slightly as I let out a gasp, the feeling of denim on cotton nearly too much for me.

Harry paused the snogging long enough to sit up and loop his fingers through the sides of my knickers. He looked at my face as he bit his lip. I wondered for a second if he was changing his mind, as this was usually not a part of the scenario where he’d stop.

“Something wrong?” I dare asked.

“Do you want me, Alyssa?”

My immediate reaction was more confusion. He’d never asked me that before. Sure, he’d moaned in my ear or against my mouth on more than one occasion that he wanted me. But he’d never asked if I wanted him. My expression softened and I gave him a smile.

“I always want you, Harry.”

With the tiniest grin and a nod, he pulled my panties down and let them fall on the floor. Then stood at the edge of the bed, he began to remove his own pants. I reached over to the bedside table then where I kept the condoms and pulled one out of the drawer.

“I promise I’ll bring my own next time,” I heard him say.

Lying on my back, I watched him crawl up the bed again.

“Next time?” I couldn’t help but razz him. The first time he’d stayed over, he didn’t have protection, but I did. I reckon after that it was just assumed.

“Yeah…” he lowered his face to mine. “Next time, love. I promise.”

He kissed me softly then, the softest kiss ever. He continued with a second on my chin, a third on my neck, a fourth on my chest…

I lost count after that.

I gripped the sheets underneath me when I felt his breath on my inner thigh. A low moan-like sound escaped my throat as I felt his thumb graze over me where I was already wet and waiting.

“You want me here?” Harry asked.

I barely heard him, his voice was so low and deep. But somehow my insides reacted and I managed to make a sound similar to yes.

I shut my eyes when I felt his tongue on me. He licked me delicately at first, like he was testing the temperature of his tea. I squirmed underneath him until he looped his arms around my legs and pulled me closer to him, his tongue pressing just a bit.

“Harry…” I panted. “Oh god.”

My legs shook around his head while he began to devour me, his tongue working faster. Opening my eyes, I began to watch him, as much as I could at least. I reached down and pushed that one stubborn curl from his forehead and his eyes shifted up, locking with mine.

“‘s that good, baby?” he murmured, barely tearing his mouth away.

I merely nodded, the only thing I could manage at the moment besides coming undone. I bit my finger when he smiled and resumed his task, making me reach the edge.

I tugged on his hair as I came, calling out his name. He nipped at my thighs gently as they trembled before climbing up the bed to hover over me.

For a solid minute or two, he just stared at me. Perhaps he was waiting for me to say something. Perhaps he was waiting for the green light. Or perhaps he was just waiting for me to stop shaking, I dunno. But I swear his gaze was like a magnet. I couldn’t look away.

The eyeliner had begun to smudge a bit from his recent activity. I started to reach up to swipe my thumb underneath his eye when I remembered the condom in my hand. I smiled and raised my brows, offering it to him.

“You still want me, baby?” he asked, taking it from me.

“What did I say?”

“Just making sure.”

Harry uncertainty was definitely something I was not used to, but as I watched him roll the condom on, I wondered if it wasn’t a put-on. He was nothing if not confident.

Situating himself, he kissed me once more before looking into my eyes.

“I always want you too, Alyssa,” he murmured.

Then before I could respond, he entered me fully. I gasped a tiny breath when I realised how deep he was so quickly. Then exhaling through my nose, I wrapped my legs around him.

“Mmm, I love when you do that,” he said.

I couldn’t help but giggle, knowing that was definitely something he liked, and I liked pleasing him. We moved together, a slow, steady rhythm at first. I could already feel my core reacting, my most sensitive spots throbbing.

He lifted his head again and I watched his face, his eyes burning into mine as he began to move faster. I had to unravel my legs from him, lifting my knees to give him more room for thrusts. Then with a groan, he sat back and held my hips as he fucked me hard. I bit my lip to keep my moans at bay, but I couldn’t help it. Dropping my arms beside my head, I cursed and called his name.

“Yeah, baby,” he growled. “So good, innit?”

“Fuck, yes.”

He slowed down then, a low chuckle releasing from his throat. “C’mere.”

I looked at him in wonder as he guided me up and onto his lap. I noticed then that he was perspiring, beads of sweat dripping on his forehead. This time I did reach to wipe them off, but instead Harry took my hands and kissed the backs of them.

“You’re amazing, Alyssa, you know that?”

I beamed at him as I slowly began to ride him.

“You want me, Harry?” I asked, wrapping my arms around his neck as his gorgeous green eyes looked up at me, the makeup starting to run down one cheek. I didn’t want to wipe it away this time. He looked so sexy.

“Always,” he replied.

I licked my lips and kissed him hard, my tongue wrestling with his. His hands covered my breasts while my hips moved gingerly. Then breaking the kiss, I rode him faster, bouncing on his lap.

“Oh, Jesus,” he moaned as he moved his hands to my hips for leverage.

“Is that good?” I asked him, just like he’d asked me earlier.

“Fuck yeah, baby, you drive me crazy.”

I watched his face, knowing he was close to unraveling. He let out a few expletives as his fingers dug into my flesh.

“Come for me, baby,” I urged. I couldn’t help it. I wanted to watch him, and just the thought of it made me drip with delight.

“You first,” he shook his head.

I wanted to argue that I already had, and that was enough. But I knew he’d just argue back. This goddamn boy. He was going to make me fall for him, wasn’t he?

I slowed down my pace, only slightly as I needed to rejuvenate. My breaths evening out and heartbeat slowing, I kissed him again. Our lips still locked, Harry grabbed my waist and laid me back on the bed again. Then he lifted my leg and pounded me hard.

“Fuck, Harry!” I screamed.

“Wrap your legs around me, love,” he requested.

I came immediately, the sensation of him deep inside and the sounds of his moans tipping me over the edge. My body trembled beneath his as his breaths quickened in my ear.

“Baby…” he groaned. “Oh, Alyssa.”

The sounds he made as he came were indescribable. This wasn’t our first shag. But it was definitely our first something else.

I lay spent on the dampened sheets, wishing I’d remembered to turn on the fan. Sticky with sweat, Harry rolled off of me, discarded the condom into the nearby bin and laid on his back breathing hard. We stayed like that for a while in silence until Harry surprised me again.

“I’m sorry, baby,” he said for the...how many times? I turned my head to look at him, but his gaze was on the ceiling, his chest rising and falling rapidly.

“I’m sorry I didn’t text just to let you know I was thinking of you. Because I was.”

My breath caught in my throat but I managed to clear it. “You were?”

“‘Course.” He turned onto his side to face me. His lips were so close to mine if either of us moved only slightly, they would touch.

“How was I supposed to know that, Harry?” I asked just above a whisper. 

Shaking his head, he seemed to consider my question. “I reckon you weren’t. I’m sorry.”

I bit my lip as he leant his forehead against mine and swung his arm across my waist. He hummed softly as though he had a song in his head.

“I wish I’d rung you to talk about your day. To ask about work or your mum. To hear about your adorable succulents.”

His last comment made me smile. “To be fair, you did text me Wednesday. So not quite two weeks.”

“Fucking Wednesday. Jesus, Alyssa,” he sighed. “And a text. How the fuck am I to expect us to be okay when I bloody text you on a Wednesday?”

I narrowed my eyes. “Are we okay? Because you kind of have me worried now.”

“Yeah, if I haven’t already fucked it up,” he groaned.

“Harry…I never said you fucked it up. I’m still here. I still came to your show. I showed up and waited at the bar like you asked me to.”

“Yeah. I know.”

“Did I really seem different tonight?” I asked.

“Not...well, kinda. You just...didn’t seem like yourself, that’s all.”

“Well then, I apologise, because I thought I was the same as I’ve always been - the same as you want.”

“What I want?” Harry asked incredulously.

“Well, Harry…” I hesitated. “We’ve never really discussed what we want from each other. But I assumed you didn’t want anything serious. We’re like...friends with benefits I reckon.”

“No, we’re not,” he stated.

My jaw dropped as I glared at him.

“I don’t want you to be..." he added.

“What?”

“Baby, I don’t want you to be just a friend with benefits. I want...this.” Harry gestured between us.

“This?”

“Us. You and I. Or, um...you and me, whatever.”

I could feel my heart beating in my chest, and I was sure it was so loud he could hear it. “Seriously?”

Harry nodded, his hand sliding underneath my jaw. “I want you, baby.”

I sighed, tears starting to form in my eyes. Blinking fast, I swallowed hard. “What brought this on?”

“I’ve been trying to tell you. I don’t mean just sex. I want you, for real. I was gutted when I thought something had changed between us, but then I realised it was my own fucking fault.”

“I don’t...know what to say, Harry.”

“Say you want me too. You and I.”

I smiled as I reached for him, kissing him tenderly and eagerly. “Always.”

Harry’s dimples appeared in his cheeks as he beamed at me. I couldn’t help it. I started giggling.

“Oh love,” I sighed. “Please tell me you’ll continue to do the eyeliner thing. I’m with Bruno. You look sexy AF.”

Harry chuckled. “Yeah?”

“Mhmm. Truth? You look completely fucked. And I love that it was with me. Only makes me want you more.”

“Well, in that case,” he murmured low, pulling my leg across his, “I’ll wear it from now on.”

“Just so I know it’s for me, and not your groupies.”

Harry snorted. “Or Bruno?”

“Eh, I don’t mind so much about Bruno. He’s on my side.”

Harry laughed harder before kissing me across my cheek and down my neck.

“You really are amazing, Alyssa,” he whispered in my ear. “Now...tell me about your succulents.”

“Well Prince is the newest, like I said,” I began, Harry’s mouth continuing its trail down my neck and shoulder. “Mick and Freddie were my first two and they’re still going strong. But Bowie is a bit temperamental…”

Hope you enjoyed!

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[padfootdaredmetoo]

Hi! How are you doing?

I've never made inquiries before. Could you write about the Thomas' daughter's allergy to tobacco? A strong cough and watery eyes when someone nearby smokes, which began from the first days of her life

I hope it won't bother you. Love your writing💗

Dear Anon,

You could never bother me love! Thank you for saying you love my stuff <3 hopefully, you enjoy this too! Thanks for writing in and for waiting!

Warnings: Mentions of difficult birth, Lizzie being ill, lots of tension, happy ending peaky related themes.

Allergies

He looked down at the little bundle of blankets. A small pudgy ball protruded from the top of it and Thomas wondered how something could look so new and yet so old at the same time. She was a darling little girl who had a shocking resemblance to a red, puffy, Whinston Churchill. Then he remembered what John, Ada, and Finn had looked like when they were born. Just as small and wrinkled. Thinking of where she had just come from it made sense.

Panic shot through him as he thought about Lizzie. He pushed those emotions down and tried to focus on his daughter. Again the fear of knowing she might be the only thing left of his family caused his stomach to lurch. Her eyes opened and she glared up at him. 

“You look squished, but you're still the prettiest girl I have ever seen.” He whispered. She seemed to take comfort in his voice and he realized he should probably pick her up and hold her. Poor thing should be stuck to her mother’s side. He picked her up and enjoyed the way she wiggled against him. 

She had no idea who her father was, only that he was her father and that she was safe there. For a moment Thomas was grateful he had been one of the older boys in the family. Being with children was not difficult for him. 

He walked over the windows and looked out at the dark sky. 

“Your mum is a tough lady, eh? Don't have to worry, she’ll come back.” He said in a low voice, was it to comfort the baby or himself, he wasn't sure. Feeling the heaviness in his heart threaten to take over he reached into his pocket and lit a cigarette with his free hand. 

He took a long drag feeling the smoke pull him together. He blew the smoke over his shoulder away from the baby. 

Looking back outside he heard a little cough. He looked down at her and was engulfed with that mixed feeling of pity and the urge to laugh. 

Her little red face was even redder and her eyes were glassy as she started to cough. Thomas wasn't sure what had caused it for a half second till he brought the cigarette back to his lips to hold her with both hands. 

“Fuck.” He said in a defeated tone. To confirm his suspicion he blew a small puff closer to her only for her to erupt into a coughing fit which she started to fight to breathe. Panic shot through him knowing all too well what that feeling felt like. Before flashes of the war could break into his mind he quickly put the cigarette out and brought her over to the window opening it. He rocked her back and forth and eventually, she settled against his chest. 

No smoke. He thought about how often a cloud of smoke followed him. It was as apart of him as his own shadow. How on earth was he to manage this? Remembering how scary the sound of her breathing was he have to figure it out. 

He’d promised Lizzie and Pol no more liquor but now he’d have to ditch smoking too. A flare of frustration ran through him. The whole situation was a big mess from day one. His thoughts became harsh and only broke when he looked down at the center of all his problems. 

The center of all his problems, and his entire universe. Guilt poured over him like cold water. It had been a long and uncertain birth, and now Lizzie was somewhere broken. 

Broken and unreachable. She was in the hands of the doctors now. He held his little daughter closely and watched her eyes flutter as he said a prayer for his new wife. 

______________________

Polly was irritated. She wasn't asked to attend the birth which was fine, but she wasn't sure how much support Lizzie would have gotten from Thomas and the hospital staff. 

Hospitals were places for death and sickness, not for bringing life into the world. Too many lost souls wandering around. She sighed and gave up waiting. Picking up the phone she dialed the hospital. 

The news she expected came through clearly over the receiver. Close family was now able to come and visit, except they clearly didn't think to call her to tell her everyone was okay. 

Polly threw on her coat and stepped out in the brisk early morning air. Arriving at the room and looking around she could see that everything was certainly not okay. 

Thomas’s hair was striking up from his fingers running through it. He was pacing the messy room with a small bundle attached to his shoulder. Coming into the room she walked up behind him and saw the dark blue eyes of her niece peering over his shoulder. 

Thomas turned and almost walked right into her jumping out of his skin. No one had ever been able to sneak up on him before. She wasn't sure what to say till she realized that Lizzie, nor her things, were in the room. Her heart wrenched but seeing the fright in Tom’s eyes she pulled herself together. 

“Fuck sake scared the life out of me.” He grumbled quietly.

“Sorry, love.” She said kindly, in a tone she hadn't used since he was small. “Do you want me to take her for a moment? Have you eaten?” She started fussing over him and was grateful that he had accepted her help. 

She took her niece and tears prickled in her eyes. 

“Lizzie is going to be alright.” His voice was tight. “She’s going to be in recovery for a few days though. When she wakes up we can take her over.” He looked out the window to avoid Polly’s gaze. 

“Are you alright?” She asked hesitantly not wanting him to snap in front of the baby. 

“She’s too small, she won't take a bottle but she’s hungry, and she’s allergic to smoke.” The last part caused the edges of her mouth to curl. The image of Thomas being up all night without drinking or smoking was not something she thought would ever be a reality. 

“Pol Im serious she gets really ill - her lungs just” His voice caught again and he went back to staring out the window. 

“I’m not laughing.” She said calmly. “I’ll have some people go the house to air the place out.” This seemed to make him relax a little. 

Just then she started to cry out, Thomas automatically reached out for her and then relaxed when Polly waved him off. Poor thing was hungry and Pol was grateful she came out as round as she did. She had enough on her to wait a while for Lizzie’s milk to come in. 

She brought the bottle to her lip and laughed as she stopped crying to glare up at her. 

“You look just like your da.” The baby’s face stayed just as stony when a nurse came through to tell them that Lizzie was up and requesting them. 

She followed Thomas anxious to look over Lizzie and make sure they had done a good job with her. 

Her dark eyes greeted them. Her face was puckered from an argument and Thomas had never been happier to see someone in his life, this Polly was sure of. 

She looked shocked, eyes wide as Thomas bent down to hold her tightly. She gave Polly a look and it took a lot to keep from laughing again. 

“Here she is now.” Pol brought the babe over and moved to the chair in the far corner of the room. She said a prayer thankful that their little family had made it through the night. Her prayer was interrupted by Lizzie's voice.

“What do you mean I can’t smoke?!” Lizzie hissed at Thomas and Pol got worried they would scare the babe. “Bring the doctor in I’m going to cut him myself.” 

“It’s not you, it’s her. She’s allergic. Gets really sick - Her lungs - You can’t - she just-” His voice was wavering again and Pol was relieved that Lizzie registered that he was scared for the little girl. 

“Oh, she was ill?” Now Lizzie’s voice was worried.  

“Yeah, but I caught it quickly.” He reassured her. “Pol is going to get people to clean the house and air it out.” 

“Oh, no. Tom.” Her voice got high and she clutched the little girl tightly. “It must have been a horrible night.” 

“No, no it was nice. She’s excellent company. Just glad you are alright.” He put on a brave face and Pol had hope that this experience would only bring them closer. 

She had cleaners go through the house and brought them food. Surprised that Thomas took the time off work to stay by Lizzie for her recovery. The family struggled at first but adapted to smoking outside. 

It was a curse till she was a teenager, in which Tommy rejoiced knowing it kept her far away from pubs, parties, and nightlife. Not to mention if she had friends over to play or for sleepovers they had to come to their smoke-free house. If a boy wanted to take her out for dinner, they ended up eating alone in the kitchen at the house as restaurants were no better than pubs. 

(Unfortunately, the only boy in all of England that didn’t smoke happened to be the son of Alfie Solomons)

(Hehehehe can’t help but sneak that pairing into everything I write)

Hope you enjoyed it love! <3

[fieldofdaisiies]

secret santa gift 2 for @moonlightazriel ❤️ @acotargiftexchange ship: Feyre x Rhysand type: nothing but pure fluff word count: 3k words warnings: none summary: We all know SJM is not a fan of writing wedding scenes and since you (my lovely secret santa recipient) indicated that you would love to see their wedding scene, I decided to write it for you. @moonlightazriel I acted as your lifesaver (hope you are not disappointed that it is me haha). I am sorry didn't have that much time hence why the story is a little shorter, but I added a playlist at the end, hoping I included a lot of your favourite songs. Love you so much❤️

read on ao3

Beneath the starlit sky of the Night Court, in the middle of a forest, where trees stand tall, and the moon casts a gentle glow upon the land, is where their union will happen. Twinkling faelights adorn the bushes and the leaves of the large tress, creating a magical atmosphere that makes the forest glow softly and come alive. Further between the towering trees, shadows dance along the soft rustle of leaves that accompanies the silent chatter of the people gathered here on this day. 

"Are you ready, my darling?" The High Lord of the Night Court smiles up at his High Lady, his demeanour showing a male who is fully contented and at ease with his life. A male who finally has everything in his life that he deserves and has longed for for centuries. A male who has suffered the worst possible in life, and has survived this hell. A male who can finally be happy.

His family is finally complete with a mate and a son, who brings joy to him every day — the greatest luck in his life. Nyx's smile alone could light up the darkest night, and more than once a day Rhysand finds himself marvelling at the small wonder. 

The High Lord's eyes lock with Feyre's, violet clashing with blue and something sparks inside his chest. Once again the bond comes alive, glowing vividly, its tendrils stretching out and curling around their souls like a warm embrace. 

Feyre smiles at him, at her mate, her husband, the father of her son, her heart brimming with love and admiration, and she is once again reminded that she is mated to the most beautiful male on this planet, the most amazing one. He is stunning and perfect - absolutely breathtaking, his dark suit perfectly complimenting his whole appearance. His hair, black-blue, is glowing in the faelights, his eyes shimmering with nothing but love and affection.

Feyre's giggles and it reaches Rhysand and reverberates through his entire body, her smile just like Nyx's able to light up even the darkest part of the Court of Nightmares. His mate is stunning and breathtaking, and he fights the urge to punch himself to make sure this is really all real. 

"To marry you again?" Feyre quips, a sheepish grin on her lips.

A proud grin spreads over the High Lord's face. "To marry me again, my High Lady." He exhales deeply. "But now with everyone present. With our whole family and most importantly with our little son joining us." 

Rhysand takes her extended hand, and steps into her, drawing in her scent, drinking her in. For a split second, his gaze moves to Nesta standing behind his mate, standing behind her sister, and he smiles at her. Then he looks to his own brother. The tall Illyrian is wearing the biggest grin possible, eagerly waiting for Rhysand to take his place in front of him. Cassian's hands are folded behind his back, wings tucked in, he is dressed in a fine suit, hair neatly combed back. 

Below the small dais they find themselves standing on, is their whole family. Mor has been the one to lead Feyre down the aisle, holding tightly onto her arm, supporting her when Feyre felt like sobbing out of happiness. Her family cheered for her, their love wrapping around her like a tight embrace. Everyone is here on this special day — all the others as well, Elain, Lucien, Amren, Varian, and of course little Nyx, happily bouncing on his aunt's lap, smiling brightly at his parents, his eyes glowing with joy and love. 

The path leading up to the dais almost seems like a dream, petals scattered like confetti amid the lush green leaves. Strings of fae lights hang above, painting the scene with a soft, twinkling glow. Lanterns flicker, casting gentle shadows across the mossy ground, creating an absolutely enchanting atmosphere. It feels like a dream! It is a dream! But one that came true. Feyre's very own dream - the one the stars have made possible for her. The dream that was answered.

Feyre knows that her older sister Elain, with the help of her mate, Lucien, has truly outdone herself. They did all the decoration as well as the food preparation and Feyre couldn't be more happy and impressed about what they have created. It is truly stunning, so stunning she has to fight the tears now bubbling up in her eyes. This day…it is all she could have ever dreamed of. 

A starlit sky spreads above them, a breathtaking dome of twinkling lights and with a crescent moon in the middle, creating a magical ambience. 

When Rhysand takes both his mate's hands into his, he leans in and kisses Feyre's brow and then takes a moment to look at her, just admiring her - her beauty, her smile, her eyes, his mate. 

His gaze strays again, landing on Gwyn and Azriel, standing next to the altar made of wooden branches with flowers and ribbons adding the finishing touch to it. Candles stand among the flower arrangements, their flames adding warmth and intimacy to the setting. 

The High Lord has to fight the grin from spreading over his face, knowing it would reach from one ear to the other. The priestess truly managed to get Azriel up here to sing with her. She is the only one who he would do it for, Rhysand knows this, and it makes him happy. His brother has also finally found happiness. In his mate. In Gwyn. 

Next to Gwyn and Azriel, Deidre, a priestess and Valkyrie from the Library steps forward, a large and ancient book open in her eyes. She wears a smile on her lips, edging on pride - after all she is allowed to hold the ceremony. 

She looks at Feyre first, then at Rhys and smiles anew. "We are gathered here on this wonderful evening to witness the union of Feyre, High Lady of the Night Court and Rhysand, High Lord of the Night Court. Although they sealed their bond a long time ago, they decided they wanted a wedding celebration where their family is present." Deidre pauses and smiles. She brushes her finger down the page and moves over to the next one.

Feyre and Rhys can't tear their gaze away from each other though, their love for each other still so strong. Nothing could ever come between them. They are still fully enthralled by each other, hearts beating in the same rhythm. 

Rhysand admires how beautiful she looks in her dress — another one his mother made back then. It is breathtaking, long and light blue, just like her eyes, adorned with small diamonds, lace and sparkling elements. She almost reminds him of one of the travelling spirits in the sky — bright, full of life and joy, stunning.

You look breathtaking my mate. Absolutely beautiful. Feyre feels a warm brush against her mental shields and her smile brightens. 

And I love this dress so very much, but I have a feeling it will also look very good on the floor tonight. 

His eyes sparkle, glowing almost a little mischievously. She can't wait for the moment where he will pull the dress down her body, where his lips and hand will then touch her skin where formerly her dress has been. 

Tugging at her hands, Rhysand brings her a little closer, the warmth of their bodies mingling, as well as their scents, hearts beating in the same rhythm. 

It is then that Deidre continues. "Feyre and Rhysand have met a long time ago, and their start and their journey was definitely not easy - no, not at all. But all throughout they had each other, held each other, supported each other, became each other's anchor. Only together they could get here. Only together they managed everything the way they did. Their relationship is one of power and strength and most importantly love. With every obstacle put into their way, this love got stronger and stronger. They conquered everything, saved the world. Became parents to a wonderful child, the biggest sunshine of the Night Court."

Deidre pauses again when a shuddering sob leaves Feyre. She turns her head, and Elain places Nyx who is almost vibrating with excitement and anticipation on the ground. Elain gives him a little push, signalling him that it is fine to run up to his mother and father. And Nyx does not hesitate.

Carrying the box with the ring made of silver with a small diamond of the deepest blue on top, in his hand, he starts running. His violet eyes sparkle like the brightest stars in the sky when he sets out for his parents, his little feet loudly padding on the in pedals and leaves covered ground.

All formalities are forgotten — why should they even care about them on such a beautiful day only surrounded by their family. Feyre sweeps him up, cradles him in her arms and kisses his cheek. Simultaneously, Rhys presses a kiss to the young boy's forehead, a single tear slipping out of the corner of his eye and landing on Nyx's suit. 

"Oh, daddy," Nyx mumbles and reaches for his father who immediately takes his son into his arms. "Don't cry." But Rhysand can't stop it. But he has to laugh through his tears, a big grin parting his lips and he tips his head back. Nyx is so big already, it is scary - just a short time ago he was nothing more than a tiny bundle in his arms. 

And now…now he is no longer a baby. He is the biggest luck and joy of his life. Rhysand's happiness is right in front of him, right in his arms. He is so proud of him. Nyx is so wonderful and amazing and he couldn't be any prouder to call the little boy his son. 

With Nyx everything became truly perfect. This family is home and happiness and he knows he couldn't be any luckier. Everything has happened for a reason. Everything has happened for them to end up here, for them to get right here, to experience this sort of bliss. This is fate. Meeting his High Lady was fate. Their lives had been planned out long before they were born and everything has happened just for them to end up here, right in this moment. 

On one arm the High Lord of Night holds Nyx, his other hand once again reaches for Feyre's hand, holding it gently, his thumb sweeping over the back of it. Rhysand calms himself a little, meeting Feyre's gaze when Nyx rests his head on his broad shoulder. Then the High Lord dips his chin at Deidre, signalling her that she can continue now. 

She nods at him and inhales a deep breath, then opens her mouth. "The couple has always stayed true to each other, believed in each other, relied on each other and endlessly loved and supported each other. You can't picture one without the other anymore. There is no High Lord of the Night without his High Lady. The two of them share a huge amount of love, but also a bond stronger than anything else. The mating bond, tying their souls and hearts together with invisible strings stronger than any other force."

"I love you," Feyre breathes when Deidre finishes. "So much." She holds Rhysand's gaze but reaches behind her where Nesta unfolds a piece of paper and hands it to her little sister. 

"And I prepared something for you."

With trembling fingers, she holds the piece of parchment in her hands, her heart rapidly beating inside her chest, hammering against her rib cage. She steals a glance at Rhysand's eyes, then looks at her son, cradled against his chest. With a smile, her gaze returns to the paper and drawing in one last deep breath she finally opens her mouth. 

"Rhys, when we first crossed paths, I admit, I didn't quite see us here. It would have been the last thing I could have imagined. Our start was, well, rocky at best. I called you a prick more times than I can count on two hands, and well, the shoe I sent flying at your head…let's not mention that, alright?" She giggles and looks at him again. 

Rhys is close to breaking, chest heaving with deep inhales, his eyes glossy. 

"But through it all, I've learned that love isn't always born from instant harmony. You have to get to know the other, manage to cross obstacles, to fight for love, to accept and respect to live and let live."

A happy smile graces her lips. "We've weathered storms, and I've come to see your true self—the parts you hide from the world and for a long time hid from everyone apart from yourself. I didn't shy away from you. You did not scare me. I love you, I love every part of you - darkness, power and everything. In you, I found a partner, someone who helped me find the person I was meant to be. Someone who taught me how to read and write and how to love and accept myself the way I am."

"You encourage my strength, you make me feel alive, you gave me wings so I could fly and see the world on my own, conquer every part of it and find happiness."

She gazes deeply into his eyes, the love evident in her every word. "And you, you never feared my power. You are unafraid of what I am capable of, of my true self. You respect my choices, value my opinions, and always, always ensure that I have a voice and can speak my mind. You see me, respect me, and have always done so."

The tears run freely and Cassian steps forward, placing a gentle hand on his brother's shoulder.

"And lastly," Feyre says and stifles a giggle. "Rhysand is the best mate in the whole word. Rhysand is the best husband in the whole word. Rhysand is the most amazing father any child could ever hope for. Rhysand is my mate, my husband, the father of my son, and I couldn't be happier."

As she finishes, a wave of applause, loud sobs and cheers fill the forest.

With Nyx on his arm, he lunges for her, cradling Feyre to his chest as well, showering her face with kisses. 

His vows, he reveals to her mind-to-mind, speaking softly, gentle, reciting everything he has told her so many times in their life together while Gwyn and Azriel start to sing their second song, falling into a perfect harmony, their voices beautifully matching, creating the most beautiful sound the Night Court has ever heard, enchanting everyone. 

Rhysand closes his eyes when he speaks to his mate through their mental bridge. He loves her, endlessly, and will never again leave her side, that is clear. "I love you my mate," he eventually says out loud, still holding her close, face wet with tears, kissing her brow. 

The song finishes, and Gwyn leans against her mate, Azriel folding his own hand over hers, holding her close while the two of them watch the High Lord and Lady. 

"Thank you for the beautiful words, High Lady," Deidre says, "Please, now, repeat after me!”

“I, Rhysand, High Lord of the Night Court take you Feyre, High Lady of the Night Court to have and to hold”

“...for better or for worse,”

“...for richer or poorer,”

“...in sickness and in health,”

“...to love,”

“...to cherish. … As long as we both shall live!”

“I do!” 

“I do!” Both of them say, tears gently streaming down their cheeks as they exchange smiles, their faces illuminated by sheer joy. Rhysand swiftly brushes his thumb across her cheek, locking eyes with her. Sniffling, she stares back at him, lost in the captivating gaze of those wonderful violet eyes she fell for years ago.

“I shall now pronounce you husband and wife once again,” Deidre announces.“You may kiss the bride now!”

With eager anticipation, Rhysand draws her close. Their hearts beat in unison as his lips meet hers in a tender, passionate kiss. It seals their vows. Cheers echo through the forest, celebrating love and joy. 

With radiant smiles, Feyre and Rhys step forward, hand in hand, their hearts brimming with love. Their family and friends line the path, their cheers and applause echoing through the forest, a symphony of joy and bliss reaching every nook and corner. 

Rhys carries his jubilating son, cradling him in his arms with a tender strength. The boy, wide-eyed and filled with wonder, looks around at the enchanting scene, his small hand grasping onto his father's shoulder. 

Feyre, her eyes sparkling with love and gratitude, walks beside him. Her hand, held by her husband, by her mate, warm against her own.

Petals rain down upon them. They meet everyone's gaze, full of love and joy while they walk over to the place where they will have dinner, the table and buffet once again beautifully decorated by Elain and Lucien - just like all the meals that have been cooked by them. 

Embraced by the warmth of their loved ones and the magic of their union, they celebrate until late into the night, Feyre and Rhysand joined by their whole family, dancing beneath the night sky, the wonderful songs enchanting their feet to keep moving and moving. 

Rhysand lets her twirl, her dress swishing over the ground, the lace and tulle rustling with every spin. When he collects her in his arms again, holding her close he kisses her head and in a low voice says, "To the stars who listen, Feyre darling."

"And the dreams that are answered." She beams and presses her lips against his, her hand placed on his chest, right atop his steadily beating heart. 

They dance and celebrate for long hours, getting lost in the love and joy of this day. And later, when Nyx is already fast asleep at Elain and Lucien's place, Rhysand makes love to his wife, to his mate, beneath a skylit sky, worshipping her and reminding her once again how much he loves her.

[m-jelly]

Chapter 5

Thank you @ladycheesington for the perfect banner

Vampire Levi x fem!reader

Victorian era like world, vampires, secrets, romance, falling in love, vampire lore, sexual tension, possessive Levi, protective Levi

This chapter: You overwork now you are engaged to Levi, so Levi and his staff put their foot down and urge you to relax. So, you do. While Levi is away for a few hours, you get a surprised visitor who presents you with an interesting proposal. Levi returns home and reads the room wrong. After a little talk, it seems like a plan and future is set in motion.

Part 6

The scratching of pen against paper filled the room and a gentle scent of flowers. It was such a cosy and welcoming room even though it was a study. Papers and books were neatly stacked on the desk and were being processed faster than they needed to be. Much to the annoyance of your fiancée, you were working hard through all the papers to help run his estate. With Levi being a Lord, you were going to become a Lady. You wanted to work hard for your staff. Levi would just have to be grumpy that you didn’t have every making moment available for him anymore.

The maid was quiet when they entered the room. She poured you a cup of tea and moved it closer to you. She noticed that the food she had brought you early on was not touched. She collected the food and left the room. It was normal for you not to be eating at the moment, which was bad news right now because Lord Levi was obsessed with you and deeply in love. He wanted you to be happy and safe, which was currently not happening with how you were eating.

Levi looked up at the maid as she entered his study. “Everything okay?”

She placed the plate of food on the table. “She hasn’t eaten today. I believe your intervention is required.”

He finished off his work and walked over to the maid. “Have you been taking in her dresses?”

“I have. She’s lost some weight. With the lack of food, working hard and umm…”

He sighed. “I’ve been drinking from her often and we’ve been having a lot of sex.” He ruffled his hair as he thought everything over. “I am partly to blame.” He hummed in thought. “I will get her to eat. Besides, I am craving her attention.”

The maid grabbed a bit of Levi’s sleeve a little. “My Lord, I don’t want to overstep, but perhaps you should refrain from being sexually intimate with your fiancé for a few days so she can catch up on sleep.”

Levi blushed a little. “You’re not overstepping, you are concerned for the Lady of the house.” He smiled a little. “I appreciate it.” He cleared his throat. “I will make my fiancé take a break and get her to eat. Thank you for coming to me about this.”

“I will ask the chef to prepare a filling lunch.”

“Thank you.” He bowed his head and moved down the hall until he reached your study. A pleasurable shiver ran through him when he opened your door. The divine mix of your scent and heat invaded his senses. “Darling.” He purred.

You lifted your head from your papers and gazed at him over your reading glasses. “Afternoon, my love.” You returned your gaze to your papers and spoke lovingly to Levi. “If you are after a meal and some body loving, I’m afraid you will have to wait a moment as I have a few papers to finish.”

“When was the last time you ate?”

You paused a moment as you pondered Levi’s question. “Mm…”

He moved closer to you. “You can’t remember, can you?”

You released a long sigh and started writing again. “I will eat soon. I just need to finish this off.”

He placed his hands on your desk and loomed over you as he sternly said your name. “Look at me.”

You gulped hard before looking up at his dark eyes. “Yes?”

“Stop working and join me for lunch.”

You shifted a little in your seat. “Just let me finish this one part.”

Levi pulled back from the desk and growled. With one hand he grabbed your desk and dragged it away from you with ease. Tension between the two of you grew as he walked closer to you. “I told you to stop working and join me for lunch.”

You whined. “Levi.”

He grabbed your wrist and yanked you into his arms. “I am concerned about you, my love.” He scooped you up like a bride. “You’re pale, you’re tired, you’re losing weight as well. The staff are concerned too. Please, take it slower.”

“But I want to be a good Lady of the manor.”

He kissed your cheek. “You are. You are truly wonderful and perfect. If you work too hard, you’ll just make yourself sick.”

You hummed a little. “You’re right, but…”

Levi called your name. “How would you feel if I did everything you did, hmm?”

You thought about it and felt tears fill your eyes. “I’d be so worried about you.”

He kissed your cheek. “Don’t be sad, okay? I just wanted you to understand how concerned I am for you.”

You wrapped your arms around Levi’s neck and hugged him. “I could go for a really big lunch and a nap.”

“Me too.” He sat you down in a chair and played with your hair. “Good girl.”

You blushed hard. “I…I am a good girl.” You grinned at the butler. “I’m looking forward to lunch.”

The table was covered in all the foods you loved, along with a few blood food for Levi that was made using your recipes. The plate in front of you became full with your food. You shovelled the food into you. It’d been so long since you’d eaten a good meal. It was clear that you were neglecting yourself when it came to food. What the chef had made was delicious beyond words could describe.

You downed some of your drink and hummed in happiness. “This is delicious. All the food is perfect. Thank you, everyone.”

The butler caught the maid in his arms as she began crying with joy. He smiled a little and gazed at you. “Sorry for how emotional we all are, but we’re just so happy that you’re eating again.”

You looked around at the happy staff and your smiling lover. An overwhelming sense of love filled you causing tears to fill your eyes. “I promise to never skip a meal again. I will eat all my delicious meals.”

Levi wiped a tear from your cheek. “Good girl.” He placed more food on your plate. “Eat as much as you like, okay?”

You nodded and kept eating until you couldn’t stomach any more. “Mm. Full.”

“Let’s get you to bed then.”

You stood up and bowed to the staff. “Thank you, all of you, for the wonderful food. I feel very loved. I will be more careful with my health so I can be a great lady of the house.”

The maid sniffed. “You’re perfect.”

The butler chuckled. “She is right, you are perfect. You have brought light and life into this home. As well as a spark in our Lord.”

Levi lifted you in his arms and smiled up at you. “She’s given me life, which is impressive because I am a vampire.”

You hugged Levi’s head to your breasts. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” He adjusted you in his arms. “Bed.”

You nuzzled the crook of his neck as you thought about what bed meant with Levi. “Bed.”

He placed you on your feet by the bed and started undressing you. “Let’s get you comfy.”

You leaned closer and kissed him. “Levi.”

He fixed the nightdress on you before guiding you to bed. “Rest.”

You frowned as you lay there. “No sex?”

“No, my darling.” He sat on the bed and played with your hair. “Not today.”

You whined. “We do it every day though, multiple times. I love it. It feels incredible.”

He leaned over and kissed you. “I know, it’s a lot of fun, but you need to rest.”

You gripped the cover tightly. “Then, lie with me.”

He changed his clothes and climbed into bed with you. “Cuddle time.”

You shifted over and snuggled against Levi. “Mm.”

He squeezed you and kissed the top of your head. “I love you so much.”

You felt your body relax. “I love you too.” You sighed. “Thank you for today.”

“You’re welcome.” He played with your hair. “I’m sorry I haven’t been working harder to help you.”

You lifted your head and looked down at Levi. “You’ve been incredible. You’re the best. I couldn’t have asked for a better man in my life. You help me out so much and I have been silly. I have been working too hard and I should have…I…I should have relaxed.” You smiled sweetly. “I’ve been neglecting my handsome man.”

Levi tangled his fingers in your hair. “Darling, you have been showering me in affection.” He sighed. “My love, when we marry, I will turn you into a vampire. We will have eternity with each other, so…”

You leaned into his touch as you smiled. “Slow down.”

“Exactly.”

You leaned down and kissed him. “Eternity.” You shifted on the bed and straddled him. “I know you said no sex, but Levi.”

He placed his hands on your thighs. “Yes?”

You squeezed your thighs. “I’m really, really, really horny. Maybe some gentle and loving sex?”

He massaged your thighs. “You should really be sleeping.”

You reached up and moved your nightdress down your shoulders. “I will sleep better if you wear me out.”

Levi chuckled as he slowly got hard against you. “Well, if my darling fiancée needs my love, then I will help.” He turned with you and pressed you against the bed. “Only once though, no multiple rounds.”

You giggled. “I’ll be a good girl.”

He purred. “You and I both know, you are far from a good girl.”

You squealed in delight as he attacked your neck with kisses. ���Yes.”

“You’re my naughty girl.” He kissed you and sighed through his nose. “My love.”

Levi gently held your face in his hands and showered it in kisses. “Now, I won’t be long, my darling. Please, be a good girl and stay in the manor. Make sure you eat plenty while I’m gone.”

You gripped his shirt. “Levi.”

He smiled a little. “Erwin and I are just going to do a bit of work. I’ll be back later today. We need to do a few checks.”

You sighed a little before approaching your friend Erwin, who was a tall and muscular vampire with incredible charm and charisma. “Lord Erwin?”

Erwin smiled softly at you. “My Lady?”

You took his hand in yours making Levi growl. “Please, look after Levi for me.”

“I will. You have my word.”

You kissed Erwin’s hand before turning to Levi. “Don’t be grumpy.” You fixed his cravat. “While you’re on business meetings and trips, I will do a bit more wedding planning.”

Levi whined. “We do that together.”

“I know, but I don’t want you to see my wedding dress. I want to surprise you. So, I’ll be working on that.”

He blushed hard. “I can’t wait to see it. You’ll be like a goddess.”

You kissed Levi before patting his chest. “Off you pop. Be safe.”

“You too.”

You walked with the two of them to the front of the home where a carriage waited. You blew kisses to Levi and waved. “See you soon!”

Your maid put a shawl over your shoulders. “My Lady, you should come inside now. The winter air is very harsh.”

You tugged it closer around you. “I want to keep busy while he’s gone, but I know he’ll get upset if I do.” You turned and sighed. “Wedding planning it is.” You smiled at your staff. “Shall we all gather together and plan?”

“Yes, my lady!”

You ascended the stairs and moved through the beautiful home until you reached the cosy parlour room. You sat on the soft sofa with a blanket over your lap. The fire was lit and filled the room with a welcoming heat. The staff sat with you having drinks and snacks as you worked together planning your wedding. There was just a sweet excitement in the air at the thought of a wedding happening that was filled with pure love.

You gazed at the last drawing of your wedding dress and knew that it was perfect. “I love it. This is perfect. I’m looking forward to trying it on.”

The attendant took the drawing from you. “We’ll get to work right away.”

“I appreciate all the hard work you all do. Thank you.”

Your maid handed you a cup of tea. “We do it because we adore you, my Lady.”

You fiddled with your cup as your heart fluttered. “Thank you. I’m glad I’m a good lady of the house.” You frowned a little when you heard loud voices in the entrance hall. “What is going on?”

“Sounds like the head butler arguing with someone.”

You rose to your feet and moved towards the entrance hall to see the butler trying to stop Prince Damon Monroe from coming in. “May I help you?”

Damian grinned when he saw you. “Look at you! You are stunning.”

You came to a stop before him. “I don’t believe Levi or myself extended an invitation to yourself. May I ask why you are at my home?”

“Your home?” He chuckled. “So, Levi really has taken you as his.”

“We are engaged.”

He purred a little as he moved closer to you. “What a waste. You deserve so much better.”

You held your head high. “Says who?” You tilted your head a little and looked out to see a grand carriage. Attendants were carrying presents and flowers out of it. “It appears you have been shopping.”

“All gifts for you!”

You lifted your hand. “No, thank you. I only accept gifts from my fiancée.”

He chuckled a little. “You’re adorable.” He turned to his staff. “Bring it in!” He walked up to you and took your hands in his. “I am declaring my love to you right here and now.”

You tried to pull away. “You don’t know me. You cannot love someone you don’t know.”

He squeezed your hands tightly. “It was at first sight.”

You yanked your hands from his grip. “Such a child, honestly.” You sighed. “I am rejecting your love.”

“Understandable.” He chuckled. “I wasn’t expecting you to accept when I saw how you and Levi were at the theatre weeks ago.” He stared at his staff. “There is something serious that I want to talk to you about.”

You frowned a little before you realised that he seemed almost scared and a bit angry. You turned to your butler and smiled. “We’ll have tea in the meeting room.”

The butler bowed. “Yes, my Lady.”

Damian smiled at you. “Thank you.”

You bowed your head. “I think it would be best to excuse your staff, don’t you?”

He glanced at his people. “Wait for me in the carriage. I am having a delightful date.” He walked with you and began to whisper. “Sorry, but I have eyes and ears on me. Calling this a date for them to leave us.” He offered his arm. “You read me and this situation well.”

You took his arm and let him escort you. “I read your fear. It was familiar.” You walked to a nice warm room and led him to a chair. “Take a seat.”

He waited for you to sit before he joined you. “Thank you for hearing me out.”

You sighed. “Levi warned me about your sister only.” You waited for drinks to be poured before talking again. “When I first laid my eyes on you, I knew that you were a hurt and tortured man. I questioned Levi and he confirmed my assumptions.” You shifted in your seat. “I know it means nothing, but I am sorry for your treatment.”

Damian smiled sadly. “I…I’ve never had anyone…thank you. It does mean a lot.” He sipped his blood tea. “I did not lie when I said I have fallen for you. However, I will put that aside because what I wish to discuss with you is very serious.”

You crossed your legs and relaxed a little in your seat. “You are seeking my approval first because if I say yes, so will Levi.”

“You’re smart.”

You hummed a laugh. “You’re assuming that I have a lot of power.”

Damian laughed. “You don’t know how much power you have over Levi, do you? Since you entered his life he has changed so much with his businesses. A lot of things are catered towards your likes.”

Your cheeks burned a little. “I…did not know.”

“Which is cute.” He smiled a little. “You are right though. I am seeking your approval so I can get Levi’s support.” He clenched his jaw. “There is no denying it, Levi is incredibly strong. If it weren’t for our family having two children, it would have been Levi or Erwin leading the vampire people.”

You frowned a little. “Your sister became the Queen because her mother had two children?”

“Our family has always been the royal family of vampires. We have been lucky to have multiple children. Pureblood vampires can have children, but fertility is rather low and most have one child. So, having two is special. Even more special that we are twins.” He lowered his gaze. “Almost laughable really. Twins are supposed to have a sweet connection, yet I feel nothing for her.” He huffed. “I did promise my mother I would care for her.” He smirked. “Though I am sure my sister was behind the death of my mother.”

You gulped hard. “I’m sorry for your loss.”

“Thank you. I miss her every day. I wanted to run away with her, take care of her and give her an easy life. My father and sister are wicked, nasty and cruel.”

You gripped your cup as your heart hurt. “She deserved better, so do you.”

“Hmm…I agree about my mother, but not about me. I am not a good man. I have done bad things.”

You locked eyes with him as tension filled the room. “Should I be concerned?”

He shook his head. “No. No harm will come to you. I care for you too much.”

“Should I be concerned for Levi’s safety?”

Damian pondered your question for a moment. “No.”

“That was a long pause.” You put your cup down. “Damian, before I hear you out I want you to promise me something.”

“Sure.”

You sat up and glared at him. “I want you to swear to me that whatever it is you want from Levi, Erwin and me, you will not hurt Levi and ensure he will be safe.”

Damian let out a defeated sigh. “All right, you have my word.”

“Thank you. Now, what is it you want help with?”

He leaned forward. “I want to kill my sister.”

You stared at him for a while. “I’m sorry, but did you say you want to kill your sister?”

“Yes.” He downed his drink. “There is no denying the harm and destruction she causes. She breaks people for fun. She tortures people and he blind obsession with Levi is psychotic. She destroys everything in her path to get what she wants. She will come for you. She will hurt you. I made her promise not to kill you and said I would deal with you. She agreed to it. If I didn’t do that, she would have killed you.”

You gripped your dress. “That would break Levi. I can’t die or he’ll go mad.”

“Exactly. He has hidden his mother and father for a long time, but if she ever found them, she would likely kill them too. She’s a danger.”

You let out a long sigh. “It seems that way.”

He gazed at you. “The rest of us want to tell people about vampires. We don’t want to hide and we want to work with humans and other supernatural beings. She is segregating us on purpose. She believes that vampires are higher beings.” He shook his head. “How are we? Some of us can’t even go out in the fucking sun.”

“You’re right. Levi has also said he would like to be out in the open.” You sighed. “Is killing her the only option?”

“Believe me, I have thought of many. If you lock her up, someone will break her free and she will come back even deadlier than before.” He looked down. “This was a hard choice for me. Even though she has done horrific things to me and others, she is still my sister. She was loving once when we were very little kids. One day she hurt a maid and something clicked in her. She enjoyed hurting the maid and she never looked back. I believe this evil within her is not something that can go away, it is the true version of her.”

You fiddled with your dress and stared at your lap. “I don’t believe I am qualified enough to make this choice.”

Damian reached over and placed his hand on yours. “You will become Mrs Ackerman. You’ll be married to a very powerful vampire and likely he will make you one too. You won’t be a pure blood, but being turned by one as strong and as powerful as Levi will give you an advantage.” He sighed. “No matter how much you deny it, you will be a strong vampire and will have a big impact on the order of things.”

You took a freshly poured cup of tea from your butler. “You’re right. I will have a lot of power.”

The butler placed some snacks on the table for you. “My Lady, may I say something?”

You nodded. “Of course.”

“He is correct with the amount of power you will gain by marrying my Lord.” He sighed. “Also, I am against the death penalty like you are, but I do believe that the Queen must die. My Lord and Lord Erwin have worked hard together to try and stop her, and so have many others but she cannot be stopped. Death is the only option.” He placed his hand on your shoulder. “I understand it is a hard choice.”

You nodded as you thought everything through. “I can’t believe I am saying this, but I agree with you. Your sister is a terrible person and I know that many people will be happier and safer without her in it.” You sighed. “I don’t think you need me to convince Levi to kill her. He has made it clear to me and others that he wants her head. However, the issue you have is getting him to work with you. He doesn’t trust you on bit. He thinks you’re a piece of shit.”

Damian stared at you for a moment before laughing. “No offence taken.”

“I’m being truthful with you because you have been with me.”

“I appreciate it.”

You shuffled in your seat. “Knowing Levi, you will need to prove yourself to him.”

“Right and how would I manage that?”

You smiled. “Maybe don’t shower me with gifts or flirt with me.” You looked up at your butler. “Right?”

Your butler chuckled. “Indeed. My Lady is correct in her words. My Lord cherishes her more than anything in this world. If you flirt with her or try to take her from him, he will never help or trust you.”

Damian groaned. “All right, all right, I get it. It’ll be hard because I like you and on top of that I am a natural flirt, but I need the help. So, I agree to your terms.”

You smiled. “Thank you.”

He took your hand and kissed the back of it with a light smirk. “Anything for you.”

You gasped when Damian flew across the room and away from you. You looked up to see Levi had the Prince pinned to the wall by the neck. “Levi!”

Levi snarled. “Mind explaining to me before I rip your throat out why you are here, why there are gifts in the hall and why you are kissing my fiancée’s hand.”

Damian grunted and winced. “I was making a deal with her about my sister.”

You hurried over to Levi and gripped his arm. “Levi, let him go, please?”

Levi looked down at you. “Are you!?” He fought his anger and suspicions. He knew you were a loyal person and you loved him with all your heart and soul. You would never cheat on him, ever. He released Damian and held you in his arms. “Forgive me. I got mad there for a moment and thought the worst.”

You held him tightly. “I love you, Levi. I would never betray you.” You pulled back and smiled. “Hear him out, okay?” You looked over to a confused Erwin. “You too, Erwin.”

Erwin moved closer. “What is it, Damian? What is it you want from us?”

Damian rubbed his neck as he stumbled to his feet, his long hair was a mess and his clothes creased. “I came to make a deal. My sister needs to die.”

Levi growled. “That we can agree on.”

You rubbed Levi’s chest. “Damian wants to help.”

“What?”

“He wants to help you both. I know you don’t trust him, but he could be of great help.” You blushed and mumbled. “I made him promise not to hurt you or be mean and he also said he would flirt, touch or do anything to me.”

Levi kissed you and sighed. “All right. We’ll hear him out, but I don’t like that he came to you first.”

You smiled. “You would have chased him away if he didn’t.”

He pouted. “You’re right.”

Erwin ruffled his hair. “Let’s get this meeting over with.”

Levi showered your face in kisses. “Go for a bath. I will join you soon.”

You nuzzled your nose against his. “Okay, handsome. Don’t be long.”

“Promise.”

You kissed him one last time before leaving him to have a meeting with Erwin and Damian. Worry seeped into your heart as you made your way to your room. Both men were stronger than Damian, so if there was a fight you knew who would live. The issue was the future. Killing the Queen was the best option but there was a high chance people were going to get hurt in the process, or worse.

The soothing smell of lavender was not helping you to relax. Even with your eyes closed, you were still worrying about the future. Anxiety had a tight hold on you. The maid tending to you was trying to relax you with a cold towel on your head and over your closed eyes. The only thing that could make you better, was Levi.

Your body finally relaxed when you heard familiar smart shoes tapping on the tiled floor. You let out a sigh of pleasure when Levi ran his hands over your shoulders and began massaging. “Levi.”

Levi kissed your temple and hummed. “While I was having my meeting, I could just sense that there was something wrong with you. You were so anxious. What troubles you?”

You reached up and dragged the towel off your eyes. “The future.”

Levi’s flinched a little and hesitated for a moment before he carried on massaging you. “About us?”

You turned in the bath and faced him. “Not us. I can’t wait to marry you. I want to be a vampire with you and hopefully, we get lucky and have a baby.”

He hummed a laugh and kissed you. “I want all that too.”

You sighed a little. “I just worry about this other path.”

“Killing the Queen?”

You nodded as you whined. “People will get hurt. I know this needs to be done. She needs to go.” You pouted. “I don’t want people to get hurt, but I know there is no avoiding it.” You tapped your forehead against the edge of the bath. “Sorry. My head is just loud right now.”

Levi stood up and removed his clothes. “I understand.” He climbed into the bath and pulled you against him. He adjusted you and held you close. “My head is very loud too. Killing the Queen will be hard and there is a chance people will get hurt, but it has to be done.” He kissed the top of your head. “Good things are coming.”

You smiled. “Wedding.”

He chuckled. “That’s right.”

You leaned up and kissed him. “I can’t wait.”

“I can’t either.” He rubbed your cheek. “Mrs Ackerman.”

You whined and nuzzled the crook of his neck. “Fits me well.”

“It does. Lady Ackerman.”

You bit Levi’s shoulder. “No teasing.”

He massaged his fingers in your hair. “My love, my darling, my everything.” He covered your face in kisses. “I adore you. I love you.”

“I love you always, Levi.”

He hummed and held you close. “I’m thinking we just get a lovely long sleep tonight.”

You yawned a bit. “Yeah, that sounds perfect.”

[blueberrypancakesworld]

Wojchek in a relationship - sfw/nsfw

warning : fluff, kissing, mentioing of alcohol, the nsfw part will be marked to know when it's coming, fem reader, afab, no use of Y/n, nicknames

Info : What can I say I wanted and needed more Wojchek and here is more so have fun reading ;)

°It would be the description of a grumpy, serious and perhaps cynical sailor who wanted to remain alone with the sea until one day he found his sea wife at the end of the horizon. The two were opposites and yet they found each other on the sea, on Demeter's ship.

°The ship that held the house of both of them like the others. But his pessimistic attitude soon subsided when she became the sun in his life. In the morning, when they woke up, he felt her next to him, felt her warmth while she felt his hand on her. Wojchel always wanted to have his darling with him while she was always humming a few favorite tunes. Singing the love of the sea to herself and to him.

°They had both seen the horror of the sea, the meter-high waves, the monsters that lurked out there, it was something that haunted you. ,,Good morning my seagull," she always joked, thinking that with his tangled hair and tired look he looked like a seagull. Her cute seagull. ,,Morning... my pearl," he replied and even though he was the second man, he was not a morning person. But his sweet nicknames for her made the coldness of the halter all the warmer.

°The ship Demeter, on which Captain Eliot had married the two with a smile, the sun was in the sky that day, the seagulls were singing and everyone was happy. There was dancing on the deck, people were drinking and the wine was taken from the belly of the ship. It was a wedding like they had always imagined. ,,You are my treasure of the sea," he finished his wedding speech, slipping the golden ring with the pearl on her finger.

°The morning cuddling and murmuring about the dream came true. Dressing became a lot of fun, even if Wojchel was still a little unsure at first when it came to fastening her corset, he was just as good a sailor with the rope as he was with the ropes on the garment. ,,You sir are outstanding, do you say you do this often?" she asked with a grin and put on her hat to keep the piercing sun off her face. ,,If you mean helping a beautiful woman, my lady, then too often," he replied and pulled her into a morning kiss.

°His hands are always on her when he eats on her, when he works on deck, when he wets her a little with the lake water on particularly hot days. He dabbed her face dry with a rag and she closed her eyes when he kissed her forehead. ,,We don't want to upset the lady," he murmured before he turned back to his crew and urged them to move faster and she couldn't help but smile.

°She loved her husband, especially when it was a mix of the beauty of the waves to her and the roaring storm he brought to his men. ,,Always so serious," she murmured before turning back to her book. They were all waiting for lunch and dinner on the ship when she gave her best voice. She sang songs from her homeland, books, especially since only four people could read and Wojchek in particular couldn't hide the smile on his lips.

°His wife was better than the sea, she was the most beautiful thing that had ever happened to him. She had made him happy and he didn't deserve her. His dark eyes full of love were something he hadn't felt for a long time, but when he had his hand on her, kissed her and danced with her, his life was perfect. He made her happy in return, he loved the way she looked at him with fascination when he showed her the maps he had drawn, the animals he had painted and the stories he had to tell. It was a moment in which only the two of them existed.

NSFW -> It's getting smuty

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

°In addition to the dancing, the celebrating and the alcohol, every good wedding also included the wedding night. Something the captain also realized as he headed for the next port and his entire crew disembarked to give the couple a rest for the night. Which they both took advantage of, and not just once. The sweet tarts they had eaten together in the galley long forgotten.

°Wojchek had wrapped his arms around her and lifted her out of the galley. The kiss they shared was barely broken and only to catch her breath as she was carried through the corridors of the ship. ,,Tonight you're all mine," he whispered to her as he opened the door to her room and set her down in front of the bed. He kissed her again as his rough, cool hands continued to roam over her body. The dress, the fabric between them, was disturbingly true. ,,I opened my treasure," he said and her grin filled the room as he deftly undid the laces of her dress.

°The two of them took their time as they lay naked, vulnerable and together on the bed, his body bedded on the soft bed as he kissed every inch of her skin and she saw his own arousal. They both wanted each other from the moment they met. ,,Woj-Wojchek I...want you" he heard her sweet voice and knew it was his duty to her and who was he to deny her that.

°The ecstasy between them only increased as his hands massaged her breasts, pushing against him, trying to catch his rhythm as he thrust into her. The scratching of her nails on his back left red streaks. His praise made her cheeks glow with those vulgar words and yet full of arousal. She contracted around his grunts and her moans rippled through the cabin but they both wanted more.

°After some time, Wojchel took her up again and wrapped her body in the white blanket, ,,My strong sailor," she murmured, still slightly drowsy from the act of love they had performed, and snuggled up to him, enjoying the coolness that emanated from him as her body still seemed to burn. ,,My exciting flower," he replied with a smile, watching her cheeks heat up as his hand ran over the curve of her breasts under the covers. Her sensitive breasts were touched by him for a moment before they both arrived on the deck.

°She let out a surprised murmur when she saw the lanterns on the wood, the cushions and blankets algae on the wood and she looked at her husband. ,,I thought the stars might stimulate your imagination a little, wife," he said, lowering her to the slightly padded floor, coming down to her and kissing her again before gently pressing her to the floor, her gaze going to the infinite stars, relaxing and letting out a gasp as she felt him kiss his way up her legs, knowing that the silver tongue of a sailor of his experience must be extraordinary.

°A night in which their desires were lost in the infinite stars it was only one of many nights in which they both made love. In the morning, he took his time, he never denied her anything, his flower blossomed, he praised her, he challenged her to rock the boat when she rode him, he put his hands on her hips, she affirmed to go on. His gaze was veiled with excitement and love when he saw her in the act. She was simply his beautiful angel and his blossoming wife, eager for them both to explore the pages of a book she had found in the Far East to sink the ship. Or at least to annoy the crew a little.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

@mask-knife-is-buggys-girl , @oceansrose2002

[cardansriddle]

Any teasers for anything in the works 😉🫡

AHHHH i'm glad you asked cause I have a few things i'm very excited to get done and post. I'll show the three i'm working on in order that i'm gonna post them.

1.phantom of the opera au (no name yet) VERYYY rough draft this is shit rn don't mind this. (requested)

"What a haunting melody." A low voice, both velvety and ice-cold, sounded from from the concealed depths of the shadows. A sudden stillness settled, the atmosphere thickening with the unseen presence that had somehow slithered into your space.

Your heart skipped a beat as you turned, searching for the origin of the haunting voice. The darkness clung to the corners, refusing to yield the phantom's secrets. "Who's there?" you demanded, your voice betraying your fear.

A low, enigmatic chuckle echoed through the room, sending shivers down your spine. "A silent spectator, if you will."

"Reveal yourself," you urged, a subtle quiver in your words.

That haunting laughter echoed once more like a spectral whisper in the darkness. "Names are but echoes in the abyss, my darling. Some call me the Phantom, and some are too cowardly to dare mention my name."

2. tom chasing this girl who doesn't want him until she does lmao (no name yet)

"Oi! Riddle!"

Tom abruptly halted in his steps, the echo of his name reverberating down the dimly lit hallway. A low curse escaped his breath as he realized the three girls in front of him had also come to a stop, their shoulders tensed with anticipation. He turned his head sharply to find Lestrange hurrying towards him with determined steps. When the younger boy finally stood before him, a mischievous grin played on his lips.

"We found the perfect candidate for your date." Lestrange's eyes shifted momentarily behind Riddle, prompting him to turn and inspect the source of their newfound audience. Three pairs of eyes were locked onto them, two wide with a mortified fascination, and you, who had recently questioned his emotional intelligence, regarded him with indifferent eyes. It was as if his very presence left you unaffected, perhaps even bored.

Tom arched an expectant brow, though his gaze remained fixed on you. Your brows furrowed briefly, and he could see the realization dawning on you—you knew he had overheard your conversation.

"Can I help you, ladies?" Tom's voice cut through the hallway, a subtle challenge lingering in his words. His gaze remained fixated on you, waiting for a glance or acknowledgment.

"No. Excuse us," you curtly replied and pulled your friends away. Tom watched your retreating back, waiting for the moment you might glance back at him, but you did not grace him with a second look.

He turned his attention back to Lestrange, his curiosity evident. "Well, who is it?"

"Er... well, she just left..." Lestrange's weak gesture indicated the direction in which the girls had disappeared. Tom's gaze lingered on the empty corridor.

3. tom's actions don't sit well with the reader (no name again lmao) (requested)

There were instances when you thought Tom could be two different people. His ability to switch on and off his emotions, concealing his true feelings behind a carefully crafted facade— it all unnerved you. He was cold and unapproachable to those who did not interest him, yet you had noticed that he also denied his closest friends the courtesy of his true nature.

With you, he had moments that convinced you of the existence of his other personality. When he was just with you, he would shed his stern demanour and his affection would take a posessive edge. The guarded gaze that he usually wore like armor would melt into something that bordered between infatuation and something else you could not decipher yet.

You never could help but wonder what lay beneath the surface of Tom's enigmatic persona. The more you tried to unravel the mystery, the deeper you fell into the labyrinth of his personality.

Despite all his bizarreness, he had never given you a reason to be afraid of him. Yet.

---

(if you have a favourite that you're most excited to read, let me know bc I'm curious 👀)

[adrianasunderworld]

Visions

Some Dreary in the Magical Girl au

Mentions of Darling who belongs to @marrondrawsalot

and Seith is @mangacupcake

@writing-heiress @the-weirdos-mind

~~~~~~

A Gift by the Fates they called it. To prophesize things to come. A rarity meant to be protected. But to Dreary she saw no difference between what was blessing and what was curse. Ever since she was small, visions had sprung up, wanted or not, (usually not), of anguish and pain. Scorned lovers, accidents, funerals, rejections. She never saw joy, only misfortune great and small.

But despite all the sorrow she saw, her mother saw a gift to be shared. Or rather a tool to be used. That was why she was ushered down the dark corridor. Flanked by her mother and her dark haired guard.

Mother was rambling again about things Dreary had heard a thousand times that she could recite it all by memory now. "Remember, back straight, posture is everything. Curtsy to Her Majesty and Lady Maleficent. Speak clearly when you are spoken to-"

She only nodded along as she walked. "Yes, Mother." Repeated again after every sentence. How she wanted to turn around and leave. To go back to her chambers and curl up. To wait for Darling to return and tell her about her trip and enjoy whatever treat or trinket her cousin had snuck in for her that her mother would not have allowed.

Dreary felt the brush of a hand against her as they walked and glanced over at her guard, Davie. He kept walking with his eyes forward, but she could tell he was resisting the urge to roll his eyes at Dreadful for all her Etiquette lectures. He was comfort to have at times like this, and so Dreary kept walking until she was at the ned of the hall.

"Honestly," Dreadful sighed as she fussed over her daughters hair. "I wish you'd grow this hair out, it looks unruly."

"I like it short though,"

"She wears it well, ma'am," Davie piped up for her. "Besides, isnt it popular to have short hair? And don't you always say it important for a lady to stay fashionable?"

Dreadful shot him a look before replying, "Fashionable is one thing, unkempt is another."

Dreary flashed a brief smile at Davie while her mother opened the door as she put up the hood of her cloak. Walking in she stood before Queen Grimhilde and Lady Maleficent. The two women looked at her expectantly as Dreary curtsied and greeted them.

"How may I serve you today, My ladies?"

"I wish to know about the Maidens." Grimhilde spoke first.

"Be more specific than that," Maleficent replied. "The little bird wont know what to look for."

Grimhilde simply rolled her eyes. "We need to know if there is any misfortune about to befall any of them. Some kind of weakness to exploit."

"Try the Maiden of Intelligence" Maleficent added. "According to Malleus they have learned her real name. Perhaps we can learn about some tragedy to befall her."

Dreary nodded. "As you wish," she closed her eyes before reopening them again. The once large yellow eyes that most Crowleys had turning inky black voids as Dreary saw into the future.

"A thief is what I see," Visions of a crying girl. Running to a woman that resembled her in her distraught state. The woman later holding that prized gem. "A mothers betrayal. The Maiden will will lose her power after her gem is stolen by the enchantress."

Maleficent leaned forward, "Really now? Her mother and enchantress?"

Dreary blinked, her eyes returning to normal before nodding. "Yes, it would seem she wants the power for herself as well and will take it."

"Stealing from her own daughter," Grimhilde looked pleased. " If the bracelet will be in the hands of someone who cant wield it, taking it for ourselves should be simple."

Maleficent only nodded. "We have much to discuss then. You're dismissed now, Little Bird."

Dreary curtsied once more before silently leaving. Her mother staying behind to further chat with them as Davie walked her out. It was silent for a few minutes before they were far enough away to talk.

"Was that all you saw?"

She shook her head before the other part of her vision strode over. "Dreary! I just ran into Darling, she just came back. She had she had some things for you." Seith grinned.

A flash of her vision came back and she saw the green haired boy with the Maiden, being the reason for her tears before her mother added to her suffering. Seith had always been kind to her, she wasn't sure how to feel seeing him like that. "Good. I was hoping she would be back soon."

"Are you alright?"

" Yes, just tired. I just had to give a reading to the queen and her ladyship."

"Saw anything interesting?"

"No. Not at all." Dreary gestured for Davie to follow once more. "Now if you'll excuse me, I shouldn't keep Darling waiting." Before hurrying off down the hall.

[skzhocomments]

The Boundless Sphere of Fate - Lee Taemin - Chapter 7 - How to bring back the dead

General masterlist

Story masterlist - please consult it for the summary of the story, trigger warnings etc.

Wattpad + AO3

Chapter 6 | Chapter 8

---

Chapter 7 - How to bring back the dead

word count: ~700 words

~Flashback, 7 years ago~

~Blair’s POV~

What a weird place. I shudder as I enter a small bookshop.

Who would’ve thought that the first place I was going to move to once my mom kicked me out would be this godforsaken small town?

Ghosts never scared me, but for some reason, small, almost deserted towns and weird antique shops give me the creeps.

This is the last day I’m spending here. I think as I breathe in and the dust in the air makes me slightly cough. I wonder why I felt the need to come to this bookstore; it’s weird.

“Hello, young lady!” An old woman speaks quietly. “Welcome.”

“Oh, hi.” I reply, and she smiles. Her face is wrinkled, and her stature is small.

“What did you come here to buy?”

“Uhm, I’m not so sure… I’ll just look around for now.”

“Of course, take your time. Just remember that no one gets here uninvited.” She winks, but I don’t understand what she’s hinting at.

I start looking around the old wooden dusty shelves, and all of a sudden, a book piques my interest. I grab it and open it hastily. It has no title, it’s old and looks to have been hand written in black and red ink; some pages are torn around the corners, and the ink looks smudged, incomprehensible in some parts.

“How much does this cost?” I ask, intrigued.

“Oh, you can grab that old thing for free, darling. Let me see you out.” The woman smiles again and urges me out of the bookstore, and everything seems weird, but I try to shrug it off and head to a nearby park to try and read the book I’ve just gotten for free while I wait for the next bus to the city I plan to move to.

~

Customs and other rituals

How to bring back the dead

Soulmates are always entangled throughout time, bound by fate to meet again. This ritual should only be used for the times when the souls are born in different timelines.

For this ritual, one needs:

A room dark enough;

Candles equal to the age of the deceased (when they passed away);

The performer’s blood

Rules:

The ritual can only take place on a night where the full moon shines the brightest, between 03:15 and 03:30 AM.

The performer must arrange the candles to form a perfect circle.

The performer must light up all the candles.

While sitting inside the circle, the performer must recite the following line: “I, [NAME], offer [NAME OF THE DECEASED] my soul and spirit. This blood should be proof of my intent.” And put out all the candles by putting droplets of blood on top of each flame. The time to put out the flames should be lower than the performer’s age. Each year of the performer’s life represents a second.

If the ritual has been completed correctly, all the candles will light back up at the same time at exactly 03:30 AM, and the soul of the deceased will come back to life.

Notes:

*The presence of the deceased in the room is mandatory!

*If the ritual is successful, the lit-up candles can then be put out and discarded normally.

*The deceased no longer has a physical body to come back into, so their return to life will only be significant towards the performer.

!!!Warning!!!Do not disregard!!!

By following this ritual, these consequences will be ensued:

The performer’s spirit will be halved. In order to make the spirit of the deceased tangible, the performer’s life essence will be transferred to offer power to the soul of the deceased.

The performer will be able to see and touch the deceased, but the deceased will not be able to be seen or touched by anyone else.

The performer’s time and

~

What the heck is written here? I squint my eyes and try to read the last warning, but it appears that water droplets fell directly on top of the words, and it’s totally incomprehensible now.

Anyways, it was an interesting read.

I put the book away and roll my head back, enjoying the sun’s warmth until my alarm alerts me that it’s time to go to the bus stop.

~

Chapter 6 | Chapter 8

[angel-inked]

The one who lived: chapter 2, part 4 "Sellsword"

This isn't actually a work in progress, it's published on my wattpad

But I've been having writers block for the last couple days, so I figured I'd share it here

Enjoy some Brynjolf angst

Taglist: @vvkingofgaybisciutsvv @thequeenofthewinter

(Brynjolf's pov)

I walked into the palace of kings, following behind Maven. The lass is looking to set up a new location for Black-Briar mead... but she's also arrived with some alternative motives, wants me to swipe some documents "Maven Black-Briar I presume" Ulfric Stormcloak greeted Maven, "who have you brought with you?" He asked, eyeing me up and down. I had to resist the urge to glare at the man, this is nerve-racking to say the least. I'm surrounded by men, if I can even call them that, who would have no problem taking their blades to my family, this has me more than on edge. "My personal guard" Maven replied, gesturing to me. I've dawned my Nightingale armor for this, the ability to become invisible upon crouching has become almost invaluable to me, I've already lost track of how many time's it's saved my ass. "Very well, follow me" Ulfric said, smiling at Maven. Phbbt, please. Does this guy think he's a lady's man? I admit to being cocky but I can't tell which is more uncomfortable, me standing here in this wretched place or this Ulfric Stormcloak trying to act noble

Now let me make one thing clear, I'm on neither side of this war but I can't stand the Nords in Windhelm. Mostly for their mistreatment of the dark elves, Argonians and Khajiit. I grew up with them after all, our little village was mostly dunmer, some Khajiit and a handful of Argonian and Nord families. I let out an internal sigh, those were simpler times. "Here we are, step inside my office darling" Ulfric explained. "Wait here for me alright?" Maven said, turning to me. "Aye lass" I replied nodding. Maven walked into the room the so called jarl closed the door behind him, now time for me to get to work

I wondered the halls of the palace for a few minutes, worried I wouldn't find the papers in time, given how big this place is. Suddenly a door opened in front of me, I peeked my head around the corner "Hmm, no guards. Who opened the door then?" I pondered quietly. "I did" oh great. "Mercer, now is not the time" I scolded, as the blue spectral of my betrayer appeared. "Look at the desk" Mercer sighed, shaking his head. I took a closer look and sure enough, the documents I was after "I'm trying to help you for once, when I was guildmaster I always avoided sending you to windhelm all together. Always found it kind of ironic how uncomfortable you are around Nords considering you are one" Mercer's voice echoed in a wispy whisper. "Well now, that's not something I expected to hear. We'll talk back in the Cistern, for now I need to get back to my post" I explained, adjusting my face cover, ya know, concealed identity and all that.

(Maven's pov)

"I like the way you think Maven" Ulfric explained, agreeing. "May I ask about your...guard?" He asked. "I don't see why not" I said, shifting almost uncomfortably in my seat. "He seems like a quiet Nord..." The jarl started, "but the armor, I've never seen anything quite like it. Nor do I believe I've heard his accent anywhere" he added. "You know just as much as me in that regard, he's a private man, he does his job so I don't pry too much" I explained, mentally scoffing. Brynjolf is one of the most talkative thieves I've ever met, if he's flirting with you chances are you'll probably get along well with him. "Very well, I'll order my men to fix up that tavern for you" he smiled. "Then I have done what I came to do" I said, trying to get a hint across. "Right, I'd imagine a noble woman such as yourself is rather.. busy" Ulfric sighed. We stood and made our way to the door, I sure hope Brynjolf was able to find those papers. A seemingly impossible task, yes. But if anyone can do it, it's the second in command of the thieves guild

As the door opened, I was pleased to see Brynjolf standing with his arms behind his back. He hadn't been caught at least, "are we ready Black-Briar?" He asked, I'd never tell him this but he's a particularly good actor, suppose it comes with the territory. Suddenly, the door to the jarl's office was slammed shut from the inside and it sounded like an atronach detonated within the room "Shor's Blood.." Brynjolf muttered. Some guards came running towards Ulfric "is everything alright jarl?" One guardsmen asked. "I'm not sure" Ulfric explained, gently pushing the office door open and the guards followed him in. When they're backs were turned, Brynjolf taped me on the shoulder. I turned to him, wondering what he wanted. The thief handed me some papers, he had in fact... collected the documents I'd asked for.

[l-r-christian]

Can I request a fic where Elijah has to marry the daughter of the leader of the human Faction, much like Hayley having to marry Jackson, and Hayley is jealous seeing Elijah with the girl who is pretty much naive and innocent?

Arrange marriage + Elijah Mikaelson + An innocent naive young lady? Yes, I am getting so many ideas.

Warnings: Fluff, A bit smutty, Innocent!Reader, Protective!Elijah, Jealous!Hayley, misogynistic behavior

There was stillness in the air as the members of the Factions stared at the human, John Hale, that was leader of the human Faction. Hayley looked at Elijah who was staring at the man as John offered up his only daughter to marry Elijah or John will pull the human Faction out of the peace treaty.

"What?"

"Marry my daughter or the humans pull out." John said smirking, John was a man that wanted power and was willing to sell off his only daughter. Y/N Hale had just turned 20 and John had came from an old fashioned family so once his daughter hit 20 and talks of the peace treaty between Factions lined up. John saw it as a chance to get power and the Mikaelsons had it.

"You can't be serious! Elijah don't....."

"I'll have to meet her first." Elijah said cutting Hayley off as Marcel looked at Elijah knowing what the Original was thinking let John believe the power was in the human's reach. John stood straight still smirking sliding over his card.

"Come by the house this afternoon Mr. Mikaelson."

"The meeting has came to an end then." Elijah said as everyone left but Hayley and Marcel. Hayley looked crossed her arms looking at Elijah wondering why he was going along with the human.

"Why did you agree?"

"Because Hayley, we need the humans to play nice. Marrying John's daughter will give us an edge as he didn't realize he gave us." Elijah said looking at the hybrid a smirk playing on his lips as Marcel smiled placing his hands on the table.

"The vampires get access to the stakes and wolfsbane." Marcel says as Elijah fixed his cufflinks smirking.

"Yes so if I am stuck in some loveless marriage then fine at least the girl would be useful for something." Elijah says as Hayley saw just how much Elijah was always ten steps ahead and just because he'll be married didn't mean Elijah wouldn't see her behind the human's back.

Y/N stood dressed in a baby blue tea dress that was long sleeved laced up back and a maid had done up her hair, Y/N slipped on white heels and she was ready to meet her future husband.

"There you are princess! Now daddy needs you to bed a good girl okay? Mr. Mikaelson is gonna be here soon."

"Of course daddy." Y/N said softly as the doorbell rang, John quickly headed down stairs. Y/N followed pausing seeing Elijah stepping in as her face flushed seeing how handsome the vampire was.

"Mr. Mikaelson, welcome this is my daughter Y/N. Sorry the boys are working." John said as Elijah looked to Y/N smirking seeing her flush and heart skipping a beat. Elijah looked her over finding her adorable as he could practically smell the innocence on her.

"It is alright. I would like to get to know Y/N alone."

"Ye....yes go ahead."

Y/N walked with Elijah in the garden as John watched from the window seeing how his daughter and the vampire were smiling talking. Elijah was surprised to find that he kinda liked the young woman as he saw how innocent and naive she was making him have an urge to keep her safe.

"You are aware why I am here, yes?"

"Daddy says you are going to be my future husband. Don't worry I know what my place is as your wife." Y/N said smiling looking at the roses as Elijah frowned not liking how that sounded.

"What do you mean?"

"Oh you know. Don't speak unless spoken to, make sure to have dinner ready, house stays clean and.....to always serve your husband's needs." Y/N tells Elijah as the Original took note that John was old fashioned and Rebekah needed to be kept away from the man or else his future father-in-law would end up dead.

"There be no need for that."

"Okay..." Y/N sounded unsure but she was told to never questioned her husband then took Elijah's arm when he held it out to her and continued their walk. For a month Elijah was seeing Y/N as John was having his daughter's things packed up when Elijah said the young woman was going to be living with him.

"Today is the day Elijah." Hayley says and Elijah swore he heard a hint of jealousy in her tone when he turned seeing Hayley dressed in a gorgeous lavender dress that boarder on being white. Hayley looked at Elijah finding him devilishly handsome wishing it was her and now she knew how Elijah felt when she married Jackson.

"That it is."

"Well don't want to keep John waiting."

The bridal march started and Elijah looked to the end of the aisle and Elijah felt his breath stop as he swore he never seen such a beautiful woman before. Y/N dressed in a lovely strapless mermaid dress hair done in a low braided bun makeup done naturally. In all the words Elijah thought of he couldn't form the words with how gorgeous Y/N looked.

"You alright Elijah?"

"Just fine Niklaus." Elijah said as the wedding ceremony went on and Elijah became Y/N's husband. Elijah noted how shy Y/N got when he kissed her and he also noticed how mouth watering her scent was.

"Welcome to the family Elijah. Now princess be a good wife for Elijah now." John says as Elijah frowned still not liking the undertones of John's words.

"Of course daddy." Y/N tells her father when Klaus came to ask the bride for a dance leaving Elijah with John.

"Don't worry Elijah she is a virgin. Like a good wife should be."

"Is that so?"

"Yeah, made the mistake with my wife so I made sure Y/N was going to be a virgin for her husband which now you." John said unaware that his words stirred something in Elijah.

The idea that his little wife was virgin, awoken a corruption kink Elijah thought he buried years ago as Elijah unconsciously licked his bottom lip watching Y/N with Rebekah. Hayley moved next to Elijah frowning a bit seeing the dark look she knew all to well.

"Elijah?"

"Yes Hayley?" Elijah answered being pulled from his thoughts and undressing his wife with his eyes. Hayley prided herself on knowing Elijah and she could tell that Elijah was falling for Y/N.

"You okay?"

"Yes." Elijah said walking to Y/N his hand falling to her waist gently taking her hand kissing it watching her flushed out of the corner of his eye.

"Go easy on her tonight, Elijah." Klaus teased smirking devilishly as Elijah chuckled helping his flushing wife in the car.

"I will."

Y/N felt nervous as she felt Elijah help her untie the boice of her dress while peppering her neck with kisses. Elijah heard her heart racing and he tilt her head back his hand slowly trailing down her thoat.

"We don't have to do anything."

"But my duty as wife is to please my husband." Y/N said softly pulling away from Elijah and he watched her take her dress off then layed on the bed in white lace. Elijah decided he was going to break his wife out of her father's ideologies.

"Alright then." Elijah said taking off his suit jacket and tie licking his lips as thought of ruining her made him growled. Y/N squealed when Elijah had pulled her to the edge and was between her legs.

"El....El....Elijah?"

"Don't worry, my dear." Elijah purred kissing her thigh just above her thigh high and began teasing the skin there pulling small whimpers from her. Y/N trembled feeling Elijah's mouth move higher kissing her lace covered mound making her snap her legs close.

"Now don't be shy, darling." Elijah said rubbing circles on her thighs spreading her thighs again.

"B...b...b..but." Y/N squeaked out as Elijah ripped her panties off and the sound she made Elijah growl against her as Y/N whimpered feeling heat pool in her lower abdomen as Elijah was making her feel things she hadn't before. Elijah groaned when Y/N cummed on his tongue and he continued to pull more sounds from her as she shook.

"Look at you, pretty baby." Elijah said seeing tears in her eyes and face flushed looking at him trembling feeling his hands moved taking off the white lace bra she had on. Y/N with shaking hands reaching up gripping his shirts he dipped his head to her neck placing soft kisses on skin.

"That's it little darling, go ahead and touch me." Elijah purred when he saw Y/N's small hands removed his shirt looking up at him with innocent eyes making Elijah try hard to not fuck her hard.

"We have all night my little darling."

Hayley walked into the compound a month after the wedding and a week earlier Elijah had returned from his honeymoon. Hayley noticed Elijah wasn't up yet which she found odd as the noble vampire was always up early.

"Elijah still in bed?"

"Yes, he and his wife had a long night." Klaus said smirking as Hayley huffed sitting down waiting for Elijah as Klaus knew why Hayley was upset.

Elijah woke groaning looking at his clock seeing it was 8am and rolled onto his side smiling seeing Y/N asleep on her abdomen. While at first Elijah was only planning on using Y/N, the vampire found hisself adoring his wife.

"Oh! Goodmorning....I'm sorry I should have gotten up more early to set out your clothes."

"It's fine my little darling." Elijah said moving closer kissing the bare skin of her back making her flushed. Since their wedding night, Y/N was confused by Elijah seemly placing her needs first and not forcing her to do things.

"But.....I'm.....your wife.....and I should."

"Shhhh, I already told you that you are perfect. My cute innocent little wife." Elijah said rolling Y/N over onto her back making her flush as her bare body was on display for him. Y/N was littered with love bites, her hips bruised, her lips still a little swollen as she looked up at him.

"But....Eli..." Y/N was cut off by Elijah kissing her deeply slipping his tongue into her mouth swallowing whatever moans she made. Elijah pulled away seeing her flushed trembling as Elijah leaning down kissing her neck.

"Such a sweet good wife."

"Eli.....I...we." Y/N tried speaking but Elijah turned her mind to mush as his hands moved up her legs. Elijah's mouth moved to her breast as Y/N bit her fist trembling feeling overwhelmed by pleasure.

"Let's get you cleaned up little darling." Elijah said softly pulling away from Y/N giving her one last kiss. Elijah drew a bath and picked Y/N up having her in his lap as warm water relaxed Y/N as Elijah began washing her. Elijah didn't know how it happened but he was slowly falling for Y/N and was going to do whatever he could to keep her safe.

"Humm that feels nice my darling." Elijah purred relaxing as Y/N washed Elijah's hair as he rubbed her back. Y/N's heart fluttered at how relaxed Elijah looked and afterwards he helped her dress.

"Elijah, hey." Hayley says getting up seeing Elijah walk down with Y/N seeing him having a possessive hand on the human's waist.

"Hayley, came to drop off Hope?"

"Yeah. So busy tonight?" Hayley asked when Y/N went to get them tea and Elijah sat down knowing why Hayley was asking.

"Yes, I have dinner with John." Elijah said smiling softly and for a moment Hayley thought Elijah was looking at her but saw Y/N walking in with a tray holding tea. Hayley frowned seeing Elijah being soft with the human woman treating like a wife. Hayley knew Elijah was in love with Y/N or at least falling for her.

"My brother has always been a sucker for a pretty face. A woman that needs him." Klaus tells Hayley with a smirk seeing that she was watching Elijah with his wife.

"Really?"

"Why else would he have fell for you? But this one is different."

"Are you saying Elijah never loved me?" Hayley growled tearing her eyes from Elijah and Y/N, looking at Klaus.

"He was blinded by the fact you were carrying my child, a woman in need of help." Klaus said making Hayley angry as she glared at Klaus.

"Elijah loved me."

"No, he loved the idea of playing father. I know my brother better than you do Hayley. Sure Elijah loved you at some point but it broke when you chose Jackson over him."

"I did that to protect our daughter."

"True but ask yourself did you really Jackson or Elijah? Which one did you lie to?" Klaus questioned leaving as Hayley snapped her head hearing Y/N laugh at as joke Elijah told her. Hayley swallowed thinking over Klaus's words hating that he might be right as she watched Elijah kiss Y/N's hand as both enjoyed one another's company.

[zablife]

Darling, congratulations! I love your writing mostly because of the original ideas and how dark they can get 🥺💞

🗣 a gif blurb request

Lily, I'm sorry this one has taken me so long, but I wanted to get it right for you. I'm really happy with the way this turned out and I hope you enjoy it! Tysm for your request!

Mr. Andrew's Perspective on Education and the Potential of Bright Young Ladies

The moment she heard the loud engine roaring up the drive, Ruby ran out to meet her father’s car. When the door opened and he stepped out onto the gravel, she rushed into his waiting arms, feeling instantly calmed by the warmth of his arms encircling her small body. “Daddy, I’m so glad you’re home,” she said, breathing in his familiar scent to calm herself. 

“I’m glad to see you, my girl. I’ve missed ya,” Tommy said beginning to pull away. Ruby held tightly to her father, however, not wanting to relinquish him so quickly. “Is everything alright?” he asked as her hands gripped the sleeves of his wool coat harshly. She shook her head, pressing her cheek to his shirt front. He lovingly stroked her hair, careful not to untie the velvet ribbon that hung down her back.

“Do you want to tell me about it?” he said softly. Although she heard her father clearly, she stood still for a few long moments in uncertainty. Perhaps she shouldn’t bother him with her problem. He’d only just returned from London, dealing with the men who yelled at him all day in Parliament. Her mummy was always saying that it was far too stressful. Ruby imagined being an MP was a terrible job because it kept her daddy awake at night in his office pacing the floor. The last thing she wanted was to bother him with more worry when he was returning home for a holiday. 

Tommy pulled back to look at her face and urged, “Go on, ’s just you and me, what’s the trouble?”

Ruby bit her lip and continued hesitantly, “It’s the new teacher at our school, Mr. Andrews. He’s not very nice,” she said dropping her head to stare at the shiny buckles of her shoes. 

“Not very nice? What does he do?” Tommy said lifting her chin to look at him once more.

“Well, my old teacher used to call on me all the time. She was lovely,” Ruby reminisced with a sigh. 

“Mrs. Fellows, yes, I recall,” Tommy said, prodding Ruby to continue, rubbing her forearm gently with his gloved hand.

Her lip suddenly began to quiver as she recounted, “Last week Mr. Andrews yelled at me for arguing with Harry about our maths homework. Harry said I’d got it wrong, but I hadn’t. When Mr. Andrews had a look, he saw it was all correct, but he threw it in the bin and made me go to the headmaster’s office.” Ruby broke down crying. Tommy brought her into his arms and hushed her. 

“Ruby, darling, it’s alright. I’m not angry. What happened next?” He said urging her to finish her story. 

“Mr. Andrews said I must have cheated because girls aren’t that smart!” she said, throwing her arms around Tommy’s neck as another round of sobs wracked her tiny frame. Tommy felt his blood boil. Ruby was the most intelligent child he’d ever known and a conscientious student. Even though she was younger than Charlie, she was far more disciplined. The thought of an educator belittling her efforts was unthinkably cruel.

Ruby tightened her arms around his neck for comfort and he felt her body press against his gun holster, reminding him of the way he usually dealt with these kinds of situations. He would have to do something about this new teacher. 

“Ruby, you mustn’t let anyone make you doubt yourself. Not even adults…especially not adults you could surely beat in a battle of wits. Do you understand?” 

Ruby turned her tear stained face to him and nodded, giving him a small smile of gratitude before placing a gentle kiss on his cheek. The reassurance from her father was slowly restoring her confidence.

“Daddy talks to nasty people like Mr. Andrews all the time to make them behave. Tell me, what does he look like?” Tommy asked. 

Ruby thought for a moment, “He’s short and fat with spectacles like yours, daddy.” 

“Well, I’ll pay him a visit after breakfast tomorrow,” he assured her, taking her hand and leading her toward the house. She looked up at him with adoration in her eyes as she tried to keep step with his long, purposeful strides. 

Suddenly Ruby stopped and pulled at his arm. “Wait! Will you hurt him?” she asked pointedly, tilting her head and watching carefully for her father’s answer. Ruby’s keen mind was a double edged sword. She was too smart not to realize her father’s actual business even though he had tried to shield her from it. 

Tommy looked away for a moment breaking eye contact so she couldn’t read his thoughts. “Of course not, love. But we might have a chat about his glasses,” he said recalling the very persuasive technique he’d used at St. Hilda’s last year. 

Ruby scrunched up her nose and furrowed her brow, not following her father’s logic. “It’s about his perspective on education and the potential of bright young ladies,” Tommy explained. Ruby nodded accepting the explanation and bounded up the stairs.

[sukirichi]

dutifully yours. [01]

Attached to the could’ve been’s of a promised happily ever after with the Crown Prince disguised under a scheme for power and greed, you are torn between choosing your happiness — or abandoning it to fulfill your duty as the future Queen.

→ unedited bcos i’m brave lazy. implied patriarchy. angst in future chapters. pure romance and fluff for now. royalty au. eventual smut. prince naoya !! i love him sm i could cry. this fic will break me, okay. naoya is close to canon but with my twist if that makes sense. drama in future chapters. oh and listen to this while reading <3

→ massive shoutout to my besties for always hyping me and helping me uwu, i present this token of prince naoya being an ideal husband okay cry cry i love him sm im crying. anyways pls enjoy bcos i poured my heart out to this and bcos i want more people in the naoya fucker club :>

one | next (to be posted)

Ever since the day your mother taught you how to read, you’ve had your nose buried in a book. Losing yourself in different worlds, swooning over fictional princes, and fantasizing for a love story ripped out of fairytale itself with such burning, passionate romance – you’d been through it all, dreamt of it all. And yet, you struggled to stop yourself from tugging at your dress.

The tight corset hadn’t even been the main focus of your worries, and neither was the heavy rivière resting on your collarbones.

“Would you stop fidgeting?” Beside you, your mother pursed her lips, fingers decorated with jewels stopping in their movements of fanning herself. The temperature hadn’t been particularly high inside the limousine that evening. You supposed it was the mere sight of you tugging and gulping audibly every now and then, gloved hands running over the hems of your collar.

You ducked your head down. “Sorry, Mother. I can’t help it.”

“Dear, your anxiety is written all over your face,” she sighed, turning your face to her as she cupped your cheeks. Smiling tenderly like a mother always did, your heart felt soothed even by the slightest bit. You wished she could keep holding you like this – like you were a fragile flower she was afraid of breaking; a fragile flower that needed more care handled than most. Tonight, however, you felt a hundred years older. Like you’d accidentally clicked on fast forward and got launched to the future. A future that seemed so unclear yet so...perfect. So right.

“How would the Prince fancy you if you’re sweating bullets like that? It’s not a good look for a marquess’ daughter.”

At the mention of the Crown Prince, your heart sank again. “My apologies, Mother. I’m just rather nervous. It’s the Crown Prince we’re talking about here.”

“He is quite the looker, isn’t he?” she giggled behind her fan, “Strong and handsome, as well.”

“My ladies. You are not fantasizing over the Crown Prince in my presence, are you?”

Crossing her leg over the other, your mother leaned forwards, elbows on her knees as she winked at your father. The marquess had his torso half twisted from the passenger seat, glaring playfully at your mother’s unabashed features. “It is of no seriousness, My Lord. I’m simply easing your daughter’s nerves.”

Your father sighed in worry. “What’s got you so worked up, child? You are beautiful. The Prince would be blind to not notice you.”

Each fibre in your body screamed in desperation for your father to be right. Tonight was not just any other night – the entire Kingdom, including noblewomen, foreign royals, and unwed daughters from honourable families had been invited to the Zen’in Castle for one purpose only: to find his Crown Prince a suitable wife, one that would be fit to be the next Queen as well. As the daughter of the marquess, you’d naturally received the invitation. It felt just like yesterday when the mail arrived and you’d cheered so much in joy the chickens went flying out of their coops, your horses galloping and whinnying at surprise, and now you here – minutes away from the palace where you were soon to be deemed worthy or unworthy to be beside His Highness.

With a shaky smile, you dug your nails into your thighs. “Well, we’ve only met once, Father. I doubt the Prince would remember me.”

“Just smile, darling. You will do great.”

To no one’s surprise, the Zen’in Castle brimmed with people and esteemed guests. Men and women danced with one another as muted chatters and chuckles blended in with the grand royal orchestra, everyone dressed to the nines and making you feel completely out of place.

The moment you’d been welcomed by the knights and led to the palace doors, your dress began to feel tighter than usual, your ribs clenching uncomfortably from the pressure. Your hands had not stopped trembling either, not even when you hid it behind your back and nodded at the people passing by. There were governor-generals, dukes, earls, professors and royal advisors and even families of the royal family’s inner circle of knights. Everyone looked like they belonged here. Chatting amongst one another over the finest of wines or discussing conspiracies on where the Kingdom of Zen’in would be in the next sixty years of the future King’s reign, no one here seemed to be out of place.

Everyone except you.

A warm hand was suddenly placed on the small of your back, making you gasp. Your mother’s smile was nothing short of warm as she held you close to her one last time, leaving a kiss on your forehead. You didn’t even realize how much you shook until she clasped her hands with yours. “Calm down, dear,” she reminded, “You’ll be on your own now. This is where we leave you since we’re not supposed to mingle with potential princesses.”

“Mother!” Your eyes widened in embarrassment. Looking around frantically, you bit your lip in fear someone must’ve heard.

Of course, while it would be no surprise most guests – if not all – hoped that their daughter would be the Crown Prince’s chosen fiancée, it still felt wrong to boldly assume such when you could barely keep up with the events of tonight.

However, your mother merely laughed. “I am proud of you, dear. Never forget that. It doesn’t matter whether you are chosen or not. We’re only here for formality and respect to the King and Queen’s demands.”

“You say that as if the Crown Prince really would not bother with me.”

“We didn’t mean that,” your father cut in, a flute of champagne already nested between his calloused fingers. Ever since you arrived, he’d been snatched away by fellow earls and barons, disappearing into the crowd for a ‘hearty conversation over one’s lands.’ You knew better than that, though. That statement always translated to which leader got to have more chances to wine and dine with the King, to which your family was ridiculously reminded of that you’d been stationed to the most faraway land where even hearing news from the royal papers was but a privilege.

“Just be yourself, alright? And enjoy the party. It’s about time you met with girls your own age and made some friends.”

“I – Father, wait!”

A slender young woman slithered to your side out of nowhere, her golden brown eyes following the silhouettes of your parents. It wasn’t long before they completely disappeared. Left alone with the stunning woman that was – for some reason – dressed in a plain black curve hugging dress too modest for tonight’s appropriateness, you took three steps away in caution. “You must be from way up North,” she noted, her head to the tipped to the side. “I don’t think I’ve seen you here before.”

God, was she beautiful. Long, thick eyelashes and short hair chopped in messy yet elegant curves, you struggled to hold her gaze. “Oh, yes, I come from the Terratian Borders. My family is stationed there under His Majesty’s orders.”

She hummed to herself. “The Terratian Borders are mostly forests and fields, no? The last time my family and I visited there, I came across the loveliest dandelions I’ve ever laid eyes on. Shame they died on the way back,” offering her hand – again, bare and empty with decorations yet still littered with faint scars and cuts – she beamed at you. “I’m Mai, by the way. Mai Zen’in.”

Zen’in?

Hands cupping your mouth, you bowed deep until your back ached. “Lady Mai!” you shut your eyes closed, unable to live with the shame. Mai Zen’in; one of the iconic twin pair from the extended Zen’in royal family, both a fashion icon and a legend for being a rumoured female knight. To have her in your presence was an honour. “My apologies for not recognizing you any sooner, Lady Mai!”

“Stand up, I’m not a royal,” she sniggered, “We’re just relatives of the actual monarch, but don’t let the family name fool you. The Crown Prince barely even acknowledges us being of the same blood.”

Albeit hesitant, you followed her gestures of making you stand up. You straightened your back and cleared your throat, fighting the urge to go haywire the moment his name was brought into the conversation. Not only would you be seeing Prince Naoya again in real life for the first time in years, but you’d also made acquaintances with his distant niece. However, his name was spoken with malice.

Frowning, you faced Lady Mai in all seriousness. “Prince Naoya? Why so?” Lady Mai looked at you like you’d grown two heads.

“He’s an ass, that’s why.”

“I-I don’t think he is,” you defended, “The Prince has been nothing but kind to me.”

“I didn’t know he was capable of kindness,” she muttered more so under her breath, low enough you were unsure whether you were supposed to hear it in the first place. Lady Mai then shook her head to herself before stealing a flute from a waiter passing by. Chucking it your way, her face turned dark and grim. “Take it as free advice: stay as far away from his as possible. The Crown Prince is nothing but good news.”

“Is it because he has lots of lovers?” you inquired with a small voice, “Uhm – well – It was an assumption. With a title and handsomeness like that, it would make sense everyone would want to be the Crown Prince’s lover.”

Lady Mai’s lip curled upwards. “Prince Naoya won’t bother with lovers. He is too occupied for that.”

“So I’ve heard.”

“Heard from whom?”

“The Royal Declaration from His Majesty himself,” you said, “Was it not the purpose of this ball? To find worthy candidates to be the Crown Prince’s betrothed? His coronation is coming soon.”

“Right. I forgot today was technically a bridal market,” she scratched the edge of her brow, falling silent for a moment. Her eyes scanned the lively crowd for a brief moment – watching with you as everyone laughed and danced to their heart’s content – the grand final event of the routine personal dance with the Crown Prince himself slowly approaching to reality. “You are joining in the festivities, are you not? Later, when he arrives, he shall meet you.”

“I am obligated to as a noble bachelorette, though I doubt His Highness would even look my way. There are far richer noblewomen here and even daughters of duke that would be perfect as his wife. ”

“You may have a point for that,” she hummed to herself, unaware that her agreement to the Crown Prince not paying attention to you left a sting both in your ego and heart. Not that it lasted long, for Lady Mai was already tugged on the arm by another equally fiercely beautiful woman – her older twin, Maki Zen’in. Soon to be governon-general of the Kingdom.

Lady Mai smiled in apology. “I need to go now since I’m not a part of this event. But hey, if ever I come around to visit the Borders again, perhaps you could entertain me?”

“I would be honoured to, Lady Mai.”

“You are sweet and innocent,” it was her sister who spoke this time, glasses perched high on her nose that concealed the wariness of her gaze. “I hope the Crown Prince never gets to your routine.”

“I’m sorry?”

“It’s nothing; she was talking to herself. Maki does that a lot,” Lady Mai’s forced chuckles were barely heard from the music. “You enjoy the party now. Don’t drink too much lest you want to embarrass yourself in everyone’s eyes and be talk of the Kingdom. Prince Naoya would hate it if you took the attention away from him.”

“Oh, uhm...”

“It’s a joke, Lady Y/N. Relax.”

You bowed once more. “My apologies.”

“The dance is about to begin,” Maki tapped on your shoulder, making you look up right where her eyes zeroed in. And exactly in the middle of the grandiose hall, under the sparkling golden chandeliers where he made all the gold in the world look incomparable next to him, the Crown Prince stood in his fully glory. Blond hair with the ends stained of midnight gelled back to reveal his forehead, the Crown Prince’s beauty never failed to shine. Whether it be in the papers, in the tabloids, in the billboards that you passed on the way to the city, or from way back when you met him for the first time as a naive, innocent teen – Crown Prince Naoya came straight out of a magazine cover.

In the back of your head, you could hear either of the twins murmuring good luck. Maybe both of them had said it – you had no idea. All of your attention, all the sensibility and coherence of your state had been switched the next instant, as if your heart and soul was born for the sole purpose of being bewitched by your Crown Prince.

And as if feeling someone’s gaze on him, the Crown Prince’s eyes trailed over the crowd. Almost boredly, his sharp eyes bounced from one giggling woman to another, the ends of his lips smirking upwards for just the tiniest bit. It must’ve stroked his ego. Until his eyes connected with yours. The Crown Prince’s eyebrows knitted together. You had no idea how you looked in that moment, and quite frankly, you didn’t care. Because the Crown Prince was looking at you, and you were looking at him with hearts in your eyes along with your heart pulsing at the tip of your tongue.

“Let us begin,” his lips moved from the distance, “Play the music. I shall dance with my bride.”

The air shifted in a split second. Murmurs were thrown over the room, women and men alike turning pale. Even the orchestra was stunned from the Crown Prince’s entrance – and it hadn’t even been dramatic to his standards – yet the whole castle fell mum from just a few of his words. A few seconds later, the crowd recomposed itself, and the strings began to dance along with its bows.

You are pushed into the crowd. Nearly colliding into the arms of another, you quietly thank the masked man who was to be your first partner of the night.

All the men joining the dance floor dressed with the intention of making the Crown Prince shine. Prince Naoya stood out from the throng of white as per the colour code, his blood red uniform as both Prince with the  golden crest of the military leader pinned to his right breast. The other men meant to be filler partners until all the potential brides got to their designated three minutes with the Prince were all dressed in black, faces covered behind a plain black mask. None were allowed to talk. None were allowed to utter even a word, and so your partner pursed his lips in displeasure at your apology.

Whatever. You just had to wait a few more rounds before the song finished and transitioned into a new one; the song where you’d been informed would be your time alone with the Prince.

You’d been so lost in your head you barely breathed the entire dance. From partner to partner, you blanked. Your heart drummed so wildly in its cage it begged to come out, and strings of apologies were let out each time your masked partners grimaced for a brief second when their hands came in contact with your sweaty ones. Around you, all the lovely women smiled and danced graciously, mouths moving in unreadable conversations shared with the Crown Prince. Not once did you look at the six partners you’ve danced with. Not once did you worry about tripping on your own feet. Not once did you care that some of the masked men held you a little too roughly for your comfort. Your entire reason for existing in that moment was to witness the Crown Prince himself, mirroring his frown that got deeper and deeper with each woman retreating to the sea of people he’d rejected.

Not once did you even think about being one of them – the girls who’ve ducked their heads down as their parents comforted them over not being the chosen one, of bringing ‘dishonour’ to their families that the mighty Crown Prince had deemed them unworthy. Tears streamed down their faces until black ink followed afterwards, lips trembling from silent sobs.

Despite their broken prides – although there was that minority who simply sighed in relief after returning to their own families – no one would dare interrupt the Crown Prince’s dances.

All of these thoughts crossed your mind too late and at the exact time your masked partner pulled away from you, body half bent in a bow with his arm outstretched to the side. Following where he was gesturing at, your eyes met the Crown Prince’s tall and lean stature, a few blond fringes now fallen from his movements.

Even though a thin layer of sweat shone from his face, Prince Naoya remained ethereal.

And like a snake charmed by the musician’s seductive tone, your feet moved on its own. Fingers stretching until it met with the Crown Prince’s large and warm ones, you were now in front of him. With him. Holding him, touching him, meeting him eye for eye and realizing – gold. His eyes burned a deep shade of gold, elegantly rich and heartbreakingly stunning your heart ached.

Before you knew it, your hands began to tremble, feeling as if your body had been corded into a corset three sizes smaller. You could not breathe, and the Crown Prince took notice.

“You are stiff. Do I make you uncomfortable?” Good Saint. If only possible, you would’ve closed your eyes and basked in the deep warmth of his voice. It reverberated from deep within, breathed out with an air of natural authority and profound confidence it made your knees weak. As if sensing his effect on you (though for the wrong reasons, it seemed), Prince Naoya hummed to himself. “This routine shall last for a few minutes before I can let you go, I’m afraid.”

You instantly realized the implications of your silence. “N-not at all, Your Highness! I am honoured to be dancing with you.”

“There is no honour in a choreographed dance. Everyone will dance with me. It’s nothing special.”

Your heart fell. Prince Naoya not only sounded dejected, but detached as well. As if he found no pleasure or specialty in this event, at a time where he had every opportunity to meet his lover, and that this ball was merely a task to be checked off in his already long list of responsibilities. It wasn’t disappointment, per se, but rather melancholy that left a bitter taste in your mouth. Not because Prince Naoya held little to no regards for something you treasured, but because he sounded terribly alone. Like he was simply waiting for it to end out of discomfort.

“It’s special to me, Your Highness,” you blurted out faster than you could stop yourself. For a moment, you feared you may have offended him, but the Crown Prince only laughs.

And when he did – saint, when he laughed – his eyes crinkled into half moons, pearly whites flashing against the bright lights and his whole chest shook with amusement.

You’d never seen him smile this way before.

Prince Naoya’s laughter didn’t cease. Around you, your gut instincts told that people were now beginning to look; the Crown Prince’s deep rumbles of laughter sounded exquisitely like music as well, after all. “ Is it special to you because you are now dancing and within the Crown Prince’s proximity? As much as I presume how exhilarating it might be for those who mostly see me in the papers and in the tabloids, I assure you, dancing with your Prince is not an honour. Especially when you are all sent the invitations based on your status and not your worthy traits.”

“It’s special to me,” you mumbled, growing shy all of a sudden when the Crown Prince nodded at you to continue. “Because...because it reminds me of the first time we met.”

The Crown Prince hummed in amusement.

“We have met before?”

“Yes, Your Highness. I’m from the Terratian Borders – my father is a loyal servant of His Majesty. You visited the borders when you were eighteen and I was sixteen. Do you remember it, Your Highness? You stormed in my private library.”

Indeed, the young barely-out-of-his-teens Crown Prince barged into your home’s library years ago. You were not previously informed he and his parents would be visiting since they arrived wordlessly, so you were stuck in your chambers as usual, killing time if not for sleeping and tending to the animals. Perched on a ladder, you attempted to reach for a book on the upper shelf when your foot slipped beneath you. At the age of sixteen, you were dramatic enough to say your life flashed before your eyes. You would’ve screamed then had strong arms not appeared out of nowhere, the Crown Prince staring at you with wide, golden eyes as they were now, his breathy rasped as he asked, are you okay, my lady?

The mere recollection of that fateful memory had your cheeks warming in delight. “You were so charming and heroic back then. Even when I had no idea you were a royal, I would have still believed you to be princely,” you said rather absentmindedly, blinking once then twice at your words. “Of course, it’s understandable if you do not remember, Your Highness!”

“My apologies. I do not remember, though Terratia is a wonderful place. Such a shame I was not informed beforehand they had a lovely daughter.”

“Thank you, Your Highness,” you cheered back, cheeks and jaw beginning to ache from how wide you were smiling. But could anyone blame you? You felt absolutely silly that you were a breath away from passing out minutes ago, and now here you were, dancing with the Crown Prince and sharing memories with him like it was a daily occurrence. The words it’s true love when you feel at peace with them suddenly rang back at your head from that latest romance novel you read, and you turned away, hoping the Crown Prince would not read your thoughts to your face. However, Prince Naoya’s lips pursed into a thin line, all traces of humour now disappeared. “I’m sorry – should I not have laughed?”

“No, I don’t mind,” he mused with his jaw locked tight, “I just haven’t seen anyone react that way before.”

“Like what?”

“Like my words meant the entire universe to them. I may dare even say you look terribly in love, though I cannot blame you on that one, can I?”

Prince Naoya shook his head the minute the words left his mouth. Forcing himself to believe it couldn’t be real, perhaps, you truly did not know anymore. Your only plan for tonight was to see the Crown Prince and get to live out your dream of seeing him once more even for just a brief moment before you travelled back home while he married another, and yet – “Your Highness, I’m in love with you. I have always been since the day we met.”

You could no longer stop the words. The voice at the back of your head begged you to shut up and not cause a scene, that your time had passed up and people were staring, yet you remained in his arms no matter how much you wanted nothing more than for the ground to swallow you whole.

“Please do not misunderstand me, Your Highness. I did not come here to attempt to steal your heart and be your wife, though I will admit I have dreamt of meeting you again for so many moons. I...I only want to tell you this. That I love you and even though it was a brief moment, I think the love I’ve always read about felt real and possible for the first time in my life,” chuckling nervously, you gather to courage to face him, adoration shining for the Crown Prince stood shock still before you, however stunned he may be. “I love you, Your Highness. I love you. And to whoever lucky woman you choose to be your betrothed, I hope she takes care of you and showers you with all the affection you are deserving of. You would make a great King. So God help his Crown Prince, and may you lead us all into a better world.”

Prince Naoya did not budge a muscle. His eyes remained hard on yours, breath warm as his nostrils fumed. With each passing second that he did not speak, you grew restless and tugged your arm away from his hold with a disgraceful smile.

You’d truly crossed your line. The repercussions to be faced for this impoliteness would destroy your family’s honour. You had to leave. “Your Highness? The song has changed. It’s time to let go—”

The Crown Prince inched close enough until his hair tickled your cheeks, his deep voice sending shivers down your spine as he pulled you close, close enough that your lower bodies touched. Skin ablaze with heat, you dared not move an inch. “Do you mean it?” he demanded lowly, his fingers ghosting over your wrist to hold you in place. “Do you truly love me? Not for what I have, not for who I was born to be, but me as a person itself?”

Closing your eyes to shudder in a deep breath, you exhaled. “Of course, Your Highness. Even if you were not born as a Prince, I’m sure I would’ve still loved you in a different universe.”

“But I do not know you.”

“We don’t have to know each other, Your Highness, and we never will. Once you let me go, I’ll return to the shadows where I belong, and I will continue supporting you until the day of your coronation.”

“And if I refuse to let you go?” he clicked his tongue, “What will you do then?”

The Crown Prince’s spicy perfume must be an aphrodisiac or hypnotizer of sorts. Everything he did messed with your mind that it was too late – the music had stopped and people were no longer drinking or chatting. Everyone’s eyes were on you and the Crown Prince. You could only imagine how controversial this position must be; with his lips trailing dangerously close to that sensitive spot in your neck where you nearly moaned. You really needed to leave.

“P-people are looking, Your Highness. You do not want this affair with someone you won’t choose—”

“Who said I won’t choose you?” Finally, he pulled away. But Prince Naoya never once tore his gaze away from yours, nor did he allow you to look at anyone but him as he caresses your jaw so light and feathery you wondered if he was truly there.“Who said I haven’t laid my eyes on you the moment you walked in here? This ball is for naught because of you, Lady Y/N. I’ve already made my choice, and you helped me confirm it as soon as you danced with me.”

“Your Highness...”

“Look at me,” he ordered, your eyes flitting from his pinkish lips to his sharp nose and then to his fox-like gaze. Only this time, Prince Naoya was no longer harsh. “Don’t be scared.”

“But they’re looking.”

“You are with me, of course they’ll look,” he teased, “They wish to be you right now. But ignore them and dance one more time with me.”

It wasn’t like you had a choice, but did it matter? One nod from him was all it took before the orchestra fumbled back to their spots and a new song played, Ode of Moonlight Lovers, and the Crown Prince was guiding you back to where he had originally danced with you.

From the corners of your eyes, you caught a glimpse of your parents with their mouths gaped open; your father looking like he was on the verge of passing out. However, you felt nothing but joy, nothing but the adrenaline pumping through your veins as he danced and twirled you in his arms. When the music stopped and you were both panting for air with silly smiles on your face, it dawned on you that you were with the Prince. No, rather, it was only you and the Prince alone. Even in the sea of people whose faces began to blur, he prevailed crystal clear.

You could recognize him anywhere, find him everywhere.

Prince Naoya stepped impossibly closer until your chests touched, hearts beating as one. Cupping your jaw, he was near enough that he swallowed all your shaky breaths with a small, teasing smile like you both shared a secret the entire world could not know.

“Do I still make you nervous?”

Laughing, you nodded. “Yes, Your Highness. I feel like I’m going to explode.”

“It’s beloved now,” he corrected, face inching closer and closer to a point you could count the number of his lower lashes. “And what do lovers do to seal their union?”

“M-Marriage?”

“Close, but this is much better.”

If anyone were to tell you that you would have a love story ripped out straight from a fairytale, you would’ve laughed at their faces. You were no Cinderella, nor were you a goddess of beauty that could’ve possibly caught the Crown Prince’s eye. Yet, his soft lips were on yours, kissing you with as much passion you could only dream of that you cried.

Strong hands guiding the back of your waist, Prince Naoya dipped you lower to the ground – the grand of finish of his dance. He had chosen his bride.

The crowd cheered and rejoiced all around you, making you smile into the kiss. Fisting his collar to bring him closer to yours, your mouth burst into metaphorical fireworks as soon as his tongue mingled with yours for an experimental taste. He was bitter yet sweet; expensive wine resting on his tongue, yet a delicate vanilla sat heavily on his soft lips that molded with yours. It was a taste you could spend forever being addicted on. And you were crying, crying so much your chest ached and the Prince’s cheeks grew damp from yours. You’d dreamt of this for so long, too long now.

Prince Naoya slowly pulled you away, his thumb wiping the tears away from the pads of your cheeks with tenderness in his touch. However, the Prince was not satisfied. The crowd whooped as he leant down to kiss your forehead. “You are mine now, my princess.”

Looping his hands with yours, the Crown Prince led you out of the castle. The crowd parted naturally to make way for the new couple, and you were left staring at his broad back and the tuft of blond hair where you’d soon find out how soft it would be. Sending one last glance to your crying parents, you waved goodbye. You had no idea where the Crown Prince would take you but you were already bunching your dress up, heart completely filled with trust you did not question it. What mattered tonight and for the rest of your life was that it felt right. That it was him – your beloved Prince Naoya Zen’in and soon to be husband – that you’d follow through the moon and back.

[theshelbyclan]

Happy Birthday!

Summary: It’s your birthday! And the Shelby brothers refuse to let another one of their baby sister’s birthday go by without some proper celebrating. 

(Gif by @benson-shelby​)  A/N: It’s actually my birthday today, but due to quarantine I can’t really celebrate it with anyone. So I decided to celebrate with the Shelby’s! Via this little fic, purely self-indulgent, to cheer myself up and to remember some great birthdays I had in the past ;) Set in season 1, you’re just a few years younger than John. Words: 1710 *** “John, get her tea.” “I thought you had the tea.” “Well, then get the milk!” urgent whispers sounded in the hallway. 

“I’m not your bloody maid, am I, Ada,” John spat not so quietly in return.

You were lying in bed, awake for hours already. This was the day you’d become a woman, or so Ada had said, but still, your siblings were bickering like little children. It brought a smile to your face. Another annoyed grumble, “Shhh, you’re going to wake her up!” “Am not,” he hissed, “I got your fucking milk, didn’t I!” “Oi!” another low voice joined in, “Ada, you really need to take a look at the toast.” “What about the toast, Arthur?” “Burned it,” he mumbled and you could hear John giggle softly in the dark. Ada sighed deeply, “For fucks sake, fine, I’ll do it. Wait here.” As the least subtle brothers in the world shuffled about in the hallway, you thought of your other birthdays. When you were little, they were celebrated with mum and everyone gathered. During the war, no one paid attention to birthdays any longer. And now, after the war, people tried to get their lives back on track. Only last week you’d made sure Finn had gotten a birthday he’d never forget. And now they tried to return the favour, obviously. Another few minutes and about a thousands curses passed, when they finally tiptoed into the room. Closing your eyes, you decided to play along. “HAPPY BIRTHDAY!” Slowly you sat up and put on a groggy voice, “What are you doing in here?” “You are the worst actor ever, Y/N,” John grinned. “Am I?” you feigned innocence. Ada handed you a cup of tea as John plopped down onto bed next to you, “Did you hear about Arthur burning the toast then?” “I didn’t burn it,” he protested, “Only… blackened it a little.” Ada sent her eldest brother a look, “Polly’s making some more.” “Thanks for the tea,” you smiled and took a sip. Frowning, you narrowed your eyes at John. “You’re not a child anymore, Y/N!” he explained happily. “Move over,” Arthur shoved his brother aside and hugged you, “Happy birthday, sweetheart. This is for you, go on, open it.” Wrapped clumsily in some brown paper, he’d given you a revolver. And just as you were staring at it, Aunt Polly walked in with toast in a lovely shade of light brown. “A gun,” she demanded at once, “For fucks sake, Arthur.” “She needs it to protect herself, Pol,” he returned, and with pride in his voice he added, “And look: it’s a lady’s gun!” You turned the weapon over and saw it was small, delicate and laid in. Still, deadly as any weapon it was. “My turn,” John said, bouncing up and down in excitement almost. He handed Polly your tea and when she sniffed it, she said strictly, “Alright, who put whiskey in her morning tea?” No one answered. Quickly John handed you his present, hardly wrapped at all. Inside, you found a peaky cap, razorblades included. “Honestly, John…” Ada sighed, “She’s not a bloody Blinder!” “It’s all she’s ever wanted!” John called out, “Ever since she could walk, she tried to steal our caps, forever talking about wanting to join us wherever we went. Now she’s got her own!” “I love it,” you beamed up at him, “All I ever wanted.” “Alright,” Ada interrupted, “Clearly Y/N has too many brothers so it’s up to me to turn her into a lady.” “Please do,” Polly sighed, “Or the only interest she’ll ever have is weapons.” She knew her niece well, “That and gambling…” Your sister combed a few rebellious strands of hair behind your ear and planted a kiss on your cheek, “My darling little sister, soon you’ll learn you have more than one way of getting a man to do what you want.” You blinked a few times. This had always been more of Ada’s area of expertise. “She has no idea what you’re on about,” Polly smirked. “Thank God,” Arthur and John said in unison. “Sit still,” Ada demanded and she started applying the lipstick, “Sit. Still.” You furrowed your brows at the unfamiliar feeling, “Just your colour,” Ada commented happily, “As I thought.” “Not bad, that,” Arthur commented as he tilted his head. John leaned back and examined you as well, “Yeah, well, it’s red, isn’t it? I like red...” “Lipstick, a gun and razors,” Ada commented matter-of-factly, “the most deadly Shelby as of yet, Pol!” Aunt Polly rolled her eyes. “Happy birthday, Y/N!” eleven-year-old Finn came running to the room and jumped up into your arms, “You can have mine!” And he thrust his homemade catapult into your hands by form of a gift. “Another weapon, Pol,” Arthur eyed her, “Whatever will become of our innocent little sister?” Aunt Polly rubbed her nose and stammered a little, “Well, you know I don’t agree with you joining the family business… And God knows I’ve tried to rein you in just a little…” “But,” you interrupted, eyes glittering mischievously. “But…” she looked down, “I got you something for your shoes.” “Shoes?” you looked at the little black package she’d handed you. John suddenly burst out laughing in realisation, Arthur tried to hide his face in his hands and Ada commented dryly, “So, no better than us, eh, Pol.” Slowly you opened the package. Inside, you found a small black butterfly knife. *** A few hours had passed, with the regular nonsense that you cherished more than anything in the world. The family was gathered in the kitchen, everyone argued and life seemed perfect. But, one thing was missing. “Where’s Tommy?” you finally asked. “He had business,” Polly answered shortly, “No idea when he’ll be back.” You eyed John carefully, the brother you always turned to, “You think he forgot?” “Nah,” he tried cheering you up, “And you’re doing alright with us, right? Don’t need grumpy here…” You smiled, but still it hurt a little. And then, unexpectedly, Tommy waltzed into the house like it was any other day. “Y/N,” he announced himself coldly, “I need you to come with me.” “Why?” you challenged, “We’re just celebra-“ “I said now, Y/N. Family business.” Tommy interrupted in a low voice. “Thomas…” Aunt Polly started, but he held up a hand to silence her. Then he turned to you and repeated, “Come with me.” Begrudgingly, you got up and followed your brother. Looking back, Arthur motioned you to move it, which made you all the more suspicious. Without moving a muscle in his face, Tommy opened the door and said, “Go on.” You stepped outside and the second you did, applause resounded through the streets. In front of every house, people had gathered and they cheered like you were royalty. You couldn’t believe your eyes. “Tommy, did you…” you started. “He’s been at it all morning,” John explained as he crossed you in the doorway. A few moments later, the sound of hooves echoed in the streets. “What the hell is this,” you said at once. “This,” Tommy made a broad hand gesture, “Is a gypsy on a horse.” “And what, pray tell, is he doing in the middle of town?” You recognised Johnny Dogs now, who called out, “Little Y/N Shelby! Happy birthday, love!  How the hell are you!” “I’m grand, Johnny,” you said numbly, “What’s with the horse?” He got off the horse and patted her flank, “She was a lovely filly as first. Sweet, but could never quite be tamed. Third filly out of Shadow, gorgeous beast.” “So, we decided,” Tommy mumbled as he lit a cigarette slowly, “she needed a rider who’d understand.” “What? Being a gorgeous beast?” your cynical reply came. Tommy rolled his eyes, “ ‘could never be tamed’ “. “Well, go on,” Johnny urged, smiling from ear to ear, “Up you get, little one!” Gingerly, you walked over to the horse. As you stroked her nose, Tommy handed you his cigarette and said softly, “What do you think of her?” “She’s an absolute beauty.” Tommy nodded, “Just like you,” but before you could send him a thankful look, he’d walked off again. And with the whole of Small Heath watching on, you climbed up on the horse. *** It was almost midnight when you woke up on a hard cold bench. A splitting headache washed over you as you tried to lift your head. You touched your temple and noticed some blood on your knuckles. Vaguely, you remembered being in the Garrison only a few hours before. You remembered Tommy had closed the betting den and the pub being packed with people, all celebrating your birthday. Memories of card games, songs and laughs came back to you. And the whiskey, so much whiskey. Slowly, you hoisted yourself up. As you looked around, you recognised the inside of the police cell. And you felt at your laced up boots: the knife was still safe inside. A sigh of relief escaped you. “How’s the head, eh?” Recognising your brother’s voice, you looked up without meeting his eye. “What did I do?” you asked finally. After a pause, Tommy replied, “Well, you celebrated your birthday alright.” “Did I have fun?” “Yes, I’d say so.” You frowned, “Why am I in here?” He cleared his throat, “It started with the barmaid and ended with you head-butting a policeman. Quite the Shelby night…” “Is that pride I hear?” Tommy didn’t answer, so you send him your best innocent smile. Eventually he asked, “Was it worth it?” “Hell yes,” you replied in a flash. “Little devil, celebrating her fucking birthday, eh?” “Admit it!” you pointed at him, “you areproud!”

And Thomas Shelby actually smiled through the bars, “Fucking right I am.” When he started to walk away, you shouted, “Oi! What about my bail?” “Paid it!” he called from a distance. “How am I supposed to get home?” you raised your voice even more. Tommy’s reply echoed, “Take your horse. She’s outside.” Myhorse? And just as a policeman with a head in bandages opened the door of your cell, you smiled to yourself: Best birthday ever.

Tommy left the station before you were released, but before he’d gone, he finally said:  

“Happy birthday, Y/N.”

***

Masterlist

[leagueoflegendsimagines]

Just came across your blog recently and your works are to die for! I don't usually request, but I couldn't contain my excitement when reading your work. Your work's like a coffee, motivating & giving myself energy to get through the day HAHA. You are doing amazing!

For the request, could we get an Enemies to Lovers prompt & SFW + NSFW for Aphelios please? Without the enemies to lovers prompt is wonderful too!

Sorry for the long wait, darling! I hope you'll enjoy this particular piece - and I apologize if it isn't up to your expectations.

Cheers!

SFW:

- The sun was your one true lover. The biggest comfort of your quite lonely life. It greeted you at dawn with gentle kisses of pale light. It offered you the great painting of nature at dusk, an explosion of bright and daring colors on the glittering surface of the lake.

- You loved the sun. And the sun seemed to bless you for such an intimate, quiet devotion - your eyes were bright with life and happiness, your tanned cheeks full of freckles. Your hair full of brimming energy, the matching shades of color woven into a spectacular waterfall of soft, almost sparkling curls.

- And you were happy. Waking up with the sun, praying to it with a heartfelt devotion as it fell from the sky into darkness - followed by the Moon.

- After many years spent at the temple, you were chosen to go and spread the world of the Solari. A brave, pleasant and well educated young lady you were - full of hope and full of dreams.

- You left your home and ventured into the exciting unknown of the world, uncaring for the dangers that might await you.

- You finally had a purpose. And if it meant spreading your love for the Sun... it was exactly what you needed.

- Your first encounter with Aphelios went quite badly. Even as a Solari, you barely posed any threat to him. A young lady with wide, fearful eyes - eyes that stared at the weapon in his eyes, at the sigils on his body.

- It should've been the end of your short, hopeful life. It should've been...

- But he didn't kill you. Even if his sister urged him to end your misery, to rip apart the roots of the Solari, Aphelios...

- Aphelios looked into your innocent, bright eyes and realized that he couldn't do it.

- Solari or not - preacher or not - you were innocent and defenseless against a man with his experience in combat. Your basic training wouldn't have given you the smallest chance to escape, let alone win against him.

- He didn't say a word. You watched this strange man - your biggest enemy - lower his weapon, taking in the paleness of his skin. It made the ink of his eyes and hair stand out so much more, a sharp man made out of broken pieces.

- He disappeared without a sound, leaving you on the chilly ground - stunned and shaken. The light of the moon was cold and unforgiven. It seemed mocking. Left at the mercy of a Lunari... and you were still alive to tell the story.

- You went your separate ways for two years. Two full years in which you found your place in the world, taking residency in one of the smaller towns of the land. Gentle and lulling life.

- You had done your job. And you would rest and continue to show your devotion in silence... until you were called again.

- But, for the moment, you would aid the town with your extensive knowledge in herbs and medicine.

- You have no idea how he found you. But when you saw him in front of your little rustic cottage - almost hidden away by the bushes of lillac and roses - you froze, chilled to the bone.

- And you quickly realized he was hurt. Holding himself up with one hand, ragged breaths leaving his mouth - brow wet with sweat and eyes hazy, painfully focused on maintaining his conscious mind -. His abdomen was a deep red, blood dripping from his trembling hand.

- You could've killed him there. That's what you were supposed to do, after all. That's what the cult taught you. Show no mercy for the Lunari - they will destroy you on any possible chance.

- But... he hadn't killed you. Maybe he'd been tempted - even so, the gesture of lowering his weapon, sparing your life...

- It was incredibly hard to forget.

- And you were a healer, not a fighter. A lover of the Sun, not a destroyer.

- You took him inside, surprised to watch him maintain his constant, deadly silence.

- But you didn't say anything. And you didn't ask him any questions in the weeks to follow, tending to him with the utmost care - entertaining him with news of the day, short stories and information on your craft. You'd sing, sometimes.

- Your voice was soft but clear, a symphony of delicate bells in the early hours of the dewy morning. One of the biggest blessings of the Sun.

- He always listened, an intense look in those dark, mysterious eyes of his. When you weren't talking to him, he would read one of your books - or... lose himself. At times you had the impression he was talking to someone inside his mind.

- You didn't know what to think.

- When he was well enough to rise from the bed without assistance, he'd spend his evenings - well into the night - in your beautiful garden.

- And it was beautiful, sitting there next to each other - a well decorated lamp between the two of you. You would sew or work on your brews, your voice whispering soft secrets of your childhood with the Solari.... or singing gentle poems into the cooling wind of the night.

- And he would sit there, watching, Observing. Eyes on the concentrated look on your face. On the delicate yet nimble fingers of your hands. On the soft, gently scented curls of your hair. On the wild roses blooming from the crown of your head in a simple yet elegant display of youth and beauty.

- You were... different. And he enjoyed this different.

- Slowly, but surely, you started cherishing the gentle presence of the night as much as the incredible embrace of your Sun. It couldn't have been different. Not with him by your side.

- You find out his name on the night he leaves. Aphelios watches your teary, pained eyes with a trembling heart. He gazes upon your hand, tightly holding his own.

- Unspoken feelings. Regret. Longing. Pain.

- Silence.

- He writes his name in elegant cursive on your precious book of herbs. And Aphelios would never be as happy as the moment when you whispered his name with trembling lips, bitten raw from the sheer emotion of separation.

- You kissed him that night. Gentle, warm lips on his own cold ones. A soft touch of your hand on his shoulder. The warm embrace of his arm around your waist, squeezing you closer to him.

- His sister was quiet. His mind was succumbing to a sweet silence, numbed by pleasure.

- And he would always return to you, taking time from his travels to visit his forbidden love.

- He was resolute.

- His devotion for you matched the loyalty for his Moon.

- And it was the greatest gift you could have ever received.

NSFW:

- Aphelios is a gentle yet incredibly passionate lover.

- He worships your presence. Your soul. Your body.

- It takes him two full years of relationship to fully open to you. And when it happens...

- It takes you two minutes to break into small pieces of pleasure under his ardent, feverish kisses. His hands cupping the sensitive sides of your flushed throat, his eyes gazing into yours as he whispers - fleeting whispers with no sound, words unknown to your ears but always present in your heart -. It feels like Paradise.

- Pressed against the wall, trapped between the cold wall and his strong, athletic body as his hands caress your chilled shoulders and your collarbone, moving lower and lower to the soft curve of your breasts, to the shivering skin of your waist.

- His touch is warm, warmer than it should be through the thick material of your autumn dress.

- You almost cry that night, when he slowly lowers you into the soft covers of your bed. You almost go insane when Aphelios takes away every piece of clothing, little by little, with soft and reverent touches.

- You don't shy away or hide yourself under his gaze. It wouldn't be possible. Not when he looks upon you with heated eyes, wide with love and devotion and lust.

- You do cry that night, when he slowly fills you to the brim with sensual, slow thrusts of his hips - pressing you down into the bed with the comforting weight of his body, your face hidden into his shoulder.

- It's perfect. It's everything you could've ever wished for.

- Over the passing years of your relationship, Aphelios continues to shock you through his love and devotion.

- And every time he returns, you tremble from the painful sense of anticipation.

- Aphelios is a traditional man in some ways and incredibly daring in others. While he enjoys possessing you in any position, he prefers to be on top - to gaze upon your pleasured face, to drink in your expressive eyes. To enjoy the desperate pull of your hands on his shoulders, urging him closer. Deeper.

- But there are cracks even in his well maintained traditions.

- There is nothing he loves more than eating you out. There is nothing more empowering than kneeling between your legs, watching you struggle and beg and plead with him - your hands in his hair, your body squirming under his relentless and determined offering of pleasure.

- And there is nothing that makes you cum faster than gazing upon his hooded eyes, his messy hair as he watches you from between your open, trembling thighs.

[zodiyack]

Opposites Attract; Act VI

Pairing: Damon Salvatore x Female!Pierce/Petrova!Reader

Warnings: Swearing, angst, shitty 11 pm writing

Words: 903

(Series) Summary: The younger sister of Katherine was the true owner of Damon’s heart, Katherine only being his worry in 1864 due to the sister’s bond, the bond that fueled Katherine to force Y/n to join her when she escaped Mystic Falls and left Damon to think they were both in the tomb

Note: I’m alive!!! Just got fucked over by writers block, that’s all, but hoorah! First fic in a while... I promise the next part won’t be as shitty...I think

Taglist: @matth1w, @redspaceace-writes, @fandom-puff, @darling-i-read-it, @simonsbluee, @sebastianstanslefteyebrow, @jenepleurepasbaby, @dpaccione, @sana-li, @local-depresso-gay-idiot, @lady-salvatore, @yolobloggers, @tranqs-main-mami, @lawlerek, @agustdpeach, @jenjie, @iclosetgeek, @avengersgirllorianna, @rosiesimone819, @caseysalvatore, @sonnydoesrandomshit​, @obsssedwithjustaboutanything​

Masterlist | The Vampire Diaries Masterlist

Part I. Part II. Part III. Part IV. Part V. Part VI.

“Y/n? I didn’t- I mean, yeah, ahem, obviously. I knew you’d be here.” Minutes passed after the dark haired Salvatore’s attempt with words, the only sound following being, comedically, crickets and the soft brushes of the night breeze.

“So um...” Damon twiddled his thumbs, one eyebrow quirked as he tried to process everything that just happened whilst also keeping a flirtatious tone in typically Damon fashion. “I don’t know whether to thank you or kiss you-”

She sighed, hands on her hips. “We can deal with that later...I’d say both, but there are priorities to be taken care of. For now, help me get my lovely sister tied up and in your cellar.”

He squinted, “Why our cellar?”

Y/n tilted her head, her expression numb. “Oh yes, let me go drop her off at the old ancient house with a secure holding room that I totally have.” Her words dripped with sarcasm.

“Right...”

“Well then, tally-ho.”

The quartet remained on edge after Katherine was locked up and left to wake. Alaric sat hunched on the couch, hands folded together and resting under his nose, supported by his knees. Y/n and Damon paced as Stefan leaned against the wall. It was quiet for a while in the Salvatore house...too quiet.

Oddly, the silence felt threatening, anxious. When they got the house, they’d practically acted out an entire sitcom simply trying to navigate and direct the flow of traffic of things. Even then, they were so loud, it was a wonder Katherine hadn’t woken up- although, the vervain could’ve been the reason behind it. Once they’d finally locked her up and made their way up the stairs again, they immediately sunk into a chair or couch, sighing like they hadn’t felt comfort in centuries.

Hours had passed and still nothing. They were about to call it night when thrashing broke through the stillness like a blade. A few grunts and curses were thrown about before Stefan stood up and spoke. 

“She’s up.” Stefan sighed. If he looked like he was deprived of years worth of sleep already, and her definitely did, he dreaded to know what he’d look like after dealing with Katherine.

The four made their way down and, unsurprisingly, found Katherine clenching the bars tightly as she violently shook the door, attempting to break free of her dusty old prison. She barred her fangs at Alaric and Damon. Stefan only gave her an unimpressed look when she tried to garner a reaction from him with her barbaric behavior.

However, her demeanor changed rather impressively in just a few seconds. The moment Y/n stepped into her sight, the sound of the rusty metal groaning violently had stopped. Katherine furrowed her brows and frowned, a hurt expression taking over her features. She was playing the victim card. Just like she had many, many years ago.

“Y/n? W-why?”

Although the urge to cry was frantically pulling at her, Y/n kept a blank face, giving her sister the honest truth. If she cried, so be it. “Sorrow will not be my mother-tongue forever, sister.”

Again, her attitude did a one-eighty. “What do you mean?” Katherine’s childish tone wasn’t missed. Her playful squint showed her antagonistic advances. No remorse for what she’d done, no sorrow or empathy for her sister, purely what her new identity made her out to be. Cruel.

“What do I mean?” She repeated with a scoff. “You’ve kept me from my happiness for over a hundred years! You admitted that you would’ve prevented him from being with me if you had the chance! You just about damn near murdered him quite a few times, and you’ve tried to murder him relentlessly at that!”

Damon widened his eyes. “Wait...I’m your- did you hear that? I’m her happiness!”

“Shut the fuck up, Damon!”

The cocky vampire froze instantly at her demand. Not a case of a sire-bond, but the man’s knowledge of when to stop. Stefan only wished Damon had that ability more often.

“I love you, Katerina, I really do, but I can’t keep getting ultimatums thrown at me! I want to be with my sister, but I also want to be with the man I love!”

At the sight of her sister near tears, and the things spoken from her heart and out her mouth, Katherine was, for once, at a loss for words.

She could only nod slowly and look away, ashamed of herself, and ashamed for being ashamed. That was not the Katherine Pierce she knew- being ‘ashamed’? Never had she felt that in the years of her second birth; her birth into the darkness. The new feeling brought disgust to her stomach... but was it disgust of the 'shame’, or disgust of the truth? Of how she’s impacted her sister?

Katherine was given some time to think of a response, but she could only dwell in the guilt that had broken into her heart. An unwanted feeling, really. Yet, it was a feeling she couldn’t get rid of without acknowledging. So she was stuck. Looking away, in shame.

“Nothing? You have nothing to say?” Y/n bit her lip and shook her head. “You know that I will always love you. At the end of the day, you are all I have. Why must you treat me like if I’m happy...you’ll cease to exist to me? Like I suddenly stop being your sister? Like your world will come to an end? Like if I have even a sliver of joy-” she paused, struggling to hold back the dam that was about to break, “you’ll die?”