#we're‚ like‚ engaged in the sense that we have agreed we want to get married and my whole family knows we're planning on it

[unopenablebox]

doing evil behaviors (looking up different methods of engagement ring sourcing to try to identify the most ethical one)

[aceyalonso]

that's the thing about illicit affairs - OSCAR PIASTRI

pairing : ex!oscar piastri x fem!reader ↳ slight lando x fem!reader at the end

summary : a maid of honor and a groom that she knows all too well, only one of them gets their happy ending.

warnings : swearing, drinking, fighting, relationship issues, mentions of settling down, marriage, majority of story takes place in 2027

word count : 6.5k

song : illicit affairs - taylor swift

a/n : happy 400 followers with a not so happy post! and a special ty to @iamred-iamyellow for convincing me to write this <3

September 10th, 2024

Y/n lifted her head from Oscar's chest, shifting her position to look at him directly. She took a moment to gather her thoughts before speaking. "Have you ever thought about getting engaged or married someday?"

Oscar's expression turned slightly cautious as Y/n asked the question. He paused for a moment, thinking about it. Finally, he responded, "Well... I haven't really given it much though, to be honest. I've been focused on our relationship and enjoying our time together."

He shifted a bit on the couch, now sitting up straight. His gaze remained fixed on Y/n as he continued. "Why do you ask? Is it something you've been thinking about?"

Y/n nodded, a mild sense of disappointment showing on her face at the realization that Oscar hadn't seriously thought about it yet. "I was just wondering. It's something that's been on my mind for a while."

The conversation turned into a more serious tone as the topic escalated to an argument. The initial lighthearted mood was replaced with tension and disagreement between Y/n and Oscar.

Y/n's frustration began to show on her face, her voice getting slightly louder. "I don't understand why you haven't thought about it yet. We've been together for 3- Almost 4 years, Oscar."

Oscar's initial surprise at the escalation of the argument slowly turned to frustration as well. He responded, his voice rising slightly as well. "It's not that I don't want to marry you, it's just... I don't know if I'm ready for it yet. The thought of getting engaged or married is a huge commitment.

Y/n scoffed a bit, her agitation growing. "I know it's big commitment. But that's exactly why it's important to discuss it and be on the same page about our future. I need to know what we agree and don't agree on!"

Oscar sighed, running a hand through his hair in frustration. "I don't want you to feel like I'm avoiding the topic, but it feels like you're putting pressure on me to make this decision. I just need more time to think about it, alright?"

Y/n crossed her arms, clearly dissatisfied with Oscar's response. She lets out a huff before responding. "More time? We've been together for years, and still need more time to think about it? How much more time do you need?"

Oscar's irritation grew at Y/n's response. He raised his voice slightly, matching her heightened tone. "I understand that we've been together for a long time, but that doesn't mean I have to be ready to get engaged or married right now. And constantly pressuring me about it isn't going to make ready any faster.

Y/n shot back with a bit more heat in her words. "I'm not trying to pressure, I just want some clarity about our future. It's not unreasonable to expect some form of commitment after being together for this long. You make it sound like you're not even sure if you want to marry me at all!"

Oscar's expression hardened at Y/n's accusation. "That's not fair. You know I love you, and I don't doubt our relationship. But marriage is a big step, and I want to be absolutely certain that we're both ready and willing to commit to it for the rest of our lives."

Y/n let out an exasperated sigh, feeling increasingly frustrated. "I understand that, but I feel like you're keeping me in limbo. You can't ask for more time without giving me some assurances that you do see a future with me. I need some sort of confirmation that we're on the same page here."

Oscar let out a deep breath, trying to calm himself down. "Okay, look, I do see a future with you. I do want to be with you for the rest of my life, alright? I just need more time to mentally prepare for the idea of getting engaged or married. It's a lot to process all at once."

Y/n relaxed slightly at Oscar’s reassurance, but their concerns still lingered on their face. “That’s good to hear, but it’s still not enough for me. I need more than just words. I need some kind of proof that you’re serious about our future together.”

Oscar, now clearly irritated, threw his hands up in desperation. “What more assurance do you need? I just told you that I see a future with you and that I love you. What else could you possibly want from me? A written guarantee? A legal contract?”

Y/n, equally frustrated, shot back with an aggressive tone. “No, I don’t need a written contract. I just need some sort of action, some steps towards making our future together a reality. You keep telling me you’re sure about us, but then you hesitate when it comes to actually making a commitment.”

The argument continued to escalate, both Y/n and Oscar becoming more frustrated and emotional. Y/n’s voice continued to raise, their words now filled with frustration and hurt. “I can’t believe you’re still making excuses. I’m tired of feeling like I’m the only one who wants to take our relationship to the next level. You keep stalling, and it makes me question if you really want to marry me at all!”

Oscar, in his frustration and anger, snapped back with a hurtful remark. “You know what, if you keep acting like this, maybe I won’t marry you at all! At least I'll be free from you and your stupid neediness!”

As soon as the words left his mouth, he regretted them. The pain and shock on Y/N’s face were evident, and he knew he had crossed a line.

Y/n stood up from the sofa, tears beginning to well up in her eyes. Her voice trembled slightly as she spoke. "Fine, if that's really what you want, then it won't happen. If you don't see a future with me, if you don't want to marry me, then there's nothing more to discuss."

Y/n, moving with purpose, made her way to the bedroom. There, she hastily grabbed a suitcase from the closet and began stuffing it with clothes and essentials. A sense of anger and determination filled her actions, her emotions still heightened from the argument.

Meanwhile, Oscar followed behind, trying to stop Y/n form leaving. He entered the bedroom and pleaded with her, his voice filled with regret and desperation. "Where are you going? You can't just leave like this!"

Y/n snapped back at him, her voice still angry and strained. "I can and I will. You just made it clear that you don't see a future with me. What am I supposed to do? Stay and keep hoping that someday you'll change your damn mind?!"

Oscar, his emotions conflicting, tried to find the words to convince Y/n to stay. "I didn't mean it. I was just so frustrated and angry, I didn't what I was saying. Please, don't go. We need to talk this through."

Y/n, who was still packing her suitcase, paused for a moment to look at Oscar. "There's nothing more to talk about. You said what you said, and I heard it loud and clear. You don't see a future with me, so what's the fucking point?"

Pausing once more in the midst of packing, looked directly at Oscar. "When we first started dating, I made it clear that I wanted to settle down one day. I was upfront about my expectations, and you knew what I wanted. Yet, here we are, years later, and you're still not ready for that commitment.

Oscar, feeling a mix of guilt and frustration, responded defensively. "I know I haven't been ready yet, but I told you I need more time. That doesn't mean I never want to marry you. It just means I'm not ready right now."

Y/n, now fully packing their suitcase, shot back with a hint of sarcasm. "Right, because waiting endlessly for you to make up your mind is so fun. You've had years, Oscar. How much more time do you need? A decade? A lifetime?"

Oscar, starting to get frustrated again, tried to defend himself. "You're acting like I'm doing this on purpose! I'm not stalling or avoiding the issue. I just need more time to figure things out. I have to be sure about such a big commitment!"

Y/n zipped up her suitcase, expression hard and uncompromising. "Spare me the excuses, Oscar. You've had ample time to reflect and consider. And here I am, still waiting for you to make a move. Your inability to make a decision speaks volumes, and I refuse to continue wasting my time, hoping for something you're not even ready to give."

Y/n, now walking out of the bedroom with suitcase in tow, was stopped in her tracks by Oscar's gentle yet firm on her free wrist. As she turned to look at him, he called out to her with a pleading tone. "Baby, wait. Don't go. Let's talk about this. Please."

Y/n looked him in the eye with a mixture of hurt and anger. "Don't call me 'baby'. You don't get to use endearments on me now. You lost that privilege when you made it clear that you don't see me as someone worth committing to."

Oscar, realizing his mistake in using the endearment, looked at Y/n with a remorse and desperation. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have called you that. I'm just trying to get you to stay and talk to me about this."

Y/n shook her head, her expression still firm and determined. "No, I'm done talking. I'm done waiting. You had your chance to discuss this, and you dismissed it. I don't want to hear any more excuses or apologies right now. I need space."

Oscar, growing increasingly worried, pleaded with Y/n once more. "Please, don't go. This is the same old argument we've had before, but we've always worked through it. Let's take a break, cool off, and come back to this later."

"Exactly!" Y/n's voice is laced with frustration and exhaustion. "We keep pushing this issue aside, hoping it'll resolve itself. But it never does!" she says, tears starting to fall in between sobs. "Instead, it just becomes a bigger problem each time we avoid it. We can't avoid this conversation forever, and it's tearing me apart."

Y/n, determined to leave despite Oscar’s efforts to hold her back, breaks free from his grip and walks towards the door.

Oscar, watching her walk away, calls out to her pleadingly. "Please, don’t go. We can work this out, can’t we? You can’t just leave without resolving this."

Y/n, standing at the door with suitcase in hand, responds with a mix of determination and pain. "You’re right. There won’t be anything to resolve if there’s nothing left between us. And right now, it feels like there’s nothing left to salvage."

Oscar, panicked and desperate, tries one last effort to make her stay. "No, don’t say that! We have years together, a life built together. You can’t throw it all away just like that."

Y/n, her voice tinged with hurt and bitterness, answers with a sharp response. "When you said you don’t feel free around me, it felt like a slap in the face. As if being with me is some kind of prison sentence to you. So maybe it’s better if you are free, without me in the picture."

Y/n opens the door, her steps resolute and determined. Without looking back, she walks out and slams the door shut behind her. Oscar, left alone in the apartment, stands frozen in place, the sound of the door slamming echoing in his ears.

February 12, 2027

Three years have passed since Y/n left, and she has found herself in a different place, both geographically and emotionally. She has moved from Monaco to France, and is now living in a cozy apartment with her roommate, Alexandra.

Y/n and Alexandra are folding laundry and chatting away in the living room, enjoying each other's company. Suddenly, Y/n's phone buzzes, signaling an incoming call. She glances at the screen to see that it's her cousin calling.

Y/n, spotting the caller ID "lily 💗", excuses herself from the conversation with Alexandra. She picks up the phone, her voice tinged with curiosity. "Hey, what's up?"

Lily, sounding excited on the other end of the line, wastes no time in telling her the news. "Hey, guess what? I'm getting married! And I'd really love it if you could come to the wedding. It wouldn't be the same without you here!"

A smile spreads across Y/n's face as she listens to her cousin's cheerful announcement. She feels a mix of joy and surprise. "Oh my goodness, that's wonderful news! I'm so happy for you. Of course, I'd love to be there for your wedding. It's going to be a beautiful occasion. Have you set a date yet?"

Her cousin, still beaming with happiness, replies warmly. "Yes, we have! We're getting married in two months, at a beautiful venue here in Monte Carlo. It's going to be a wonderful celebration. I can't wait for you to be there with me."

Y/n's cousin, continuing the conversation, extends a special invitation. "Oh, and by the way, I wanted to ask you something else. Would you do me the honor of being my maid of honor? It would mean the world to me if you were by my side on my special day."

She feels a wave of warmth and appreciation at her cousin's request. She quickly responds with enthusiasm. "Oh my goodness, of course I'll be your maid of honor! It would be my absolute honor to stand by your side on your wedding day. I'm so touched that you asked me."

Her cousin lets out a happy sigh, feeling relieved and delighted at Y/n's acceptance. "Thank you, thank you, thank you! I'm so glad you said yes. I can already imagine us having so much fun during the preparations and on the big day. You're going to be the best maid of honor ever!"

She rejoins Alexandra in the living room, her expression a mix of joy and excitement. "Sorry, that was my cousin. She's getting married apparently? She asked me to be her maid of honor too!"

Alexandra, hearing the exciting news, lights up with delight. "Oh, that's fantastic! Congratulations to the both of you!" she says, clapping lightly. "Being a maid of honor is such a special role. When's the big day?"

Y/n's voice brims with anticipation as she responds. "In two months, it'll be in Monte Carlo."

Alexandra, curious to know more about Y/n's cousin and her fiancé, poses a question with a tone of intrigue. "That sounds wonderful! So who's the lucky groom?"

Y/n opens her mouth before slowly closing it. "You know, I just realized, I don't actually know..." she replies sheepishly.

The two girls sit in awkward silence for a few moments before bursting out laughing. Y/n can finally say that she feels happy. At least, way happier than she was with Oscar.

April 26, 2027 | Chapel

The long awaited wedding day, and the setting couldn't more picturesque. The venue is adorned with elegant decorations, and Y/n stands by chapel doors, ready to walk down the aisle alongside the best man and to see the groom for the very first time.

Y/n, in her satin green dress, is arm in arm with Lando, the best man (who she met a week ago). They make their way up to the altar, and as her eyes scan the surroundings, something catches her eye. She turns her gaze towards the altar, and there she sees the groom awaiting his bride.

As the groom turns around to face the aisle, Y/n's heart skips a beat. There, standing at the altar, is Oscar, her ex-boyfriend. Y/n feels a mix of shock and disbelief. Lily is getting married to Oscar.

Oscar, caught off guard by the sight of Y/n, manages to keep his composure despite the surprise. His eyes go wide with realization, but he quickly masks his emotions and turns his attention back to the altar.

Lando, feeling Y/n's grip on his arm tighten ever so slightly, turns his attention to her with concern. He senses something is amiss and leans in slightly to inquire in a low whisper. "Hey, is everything alright? You look like you've just seen a ghost."

Y/n, struggling to find her words, manages to compose herself enough to respond to Lando's question. "I'm... I'm fine." she mutters, forcing a smile. "Don't worry about it. Let's just focus on the ceremony right now. I'll explain everything later if we have time."

Lando, sensing Y/n's unease, nods in understanding but keeps a watchful eye on her throughout the ceremony. He feels there's more to it than meets the eye, but he decides to respect her request to wait until later to explain.

The processional draws to a close as Lily walks down the aisle, looking stunning in her snowy white dress. Y/n, unable to help herself, steals a glance at Oscar, who stands at the altar, his eyes filled with awe as he gazes at the bride- his bride, in all her splendor. There's a mix of shock and a tinge of melancholy in Y/n's expression as she observes him.

Her thoughts race through her mind as she stands alongside the other bridesmaids. She watches Oscar at the altar, his eyes fixated on Lily, and a sudden pang of bittersweetness washes over her. In that moment, she can't help but wonder if this is what it would've been if she and Oscar had gotten married, if they would've worked it out. A mixture of nostalgia and melancholy fills her heart as she contemplates what could have been.

Her inner turmoil intensifies as she struggles to reconcile her current circumstances with the memory of the dreams and aspirations she once had with Oscar. The weight of the unspoken emotions between them hangs heavily in the air, and split second, Y/n finds herself caught in a whirlwind of "what if?" scenarios before she snaps back to reality, reminding herself of the reasons that led them down separate paths. The same reasons that led them to this day.

Lily reaches the altar, and Oscar assists her with her beautiful gown, his hands gently arranging the fabric. In the process, their eyes meet for a fraction of a second, and the intensity of that brief glance nearly brings tears to her eyes. The connection, though fleeting, stirs a mix of emotions within her, bringing back memories and longing she thought she had buried in the past.

Unable to bear the weight of Oscar's gaze any longer, Y/n averts her eyes, feigning the need to fuss with her own gown. She busies herself with adjusting her attire, using the action as a guise to avoid looking at Oscar, who stands just a few steps from her. She tries to mask the turmoil within her, hoping no one notices the storm of emotions brewing beneath the surface.

Oscar tears his gaze away from Y/n and redirects his focus to his bride. A genuine, radiant smile illuminates his face, and in that moment, Y/n realizes that she has never seen him smile quite like that before. The smile is wide, full of joy and contentment. Y/n can't help but feel a sharp pang in her heart.

The sight of Oscar's unabashed happiness with his bride strikes a chord deep within Y/n. It awakened a mix of sorrow, regret, and a hint of resignation. She understands that his smile, while beautiful, is no longer hers to witness. The reality of their broken relationship, and the different paths they've taken, is now undeniable, and the weight of that realization settles heavily on her heart.

The mixture of emotions in the air is palpable as Y/n stans beside the other bridesmaids, her eyes till fixated on Oscar and the bride. She can't help but feel a jumble of sadness, envy, and acceptance, witnessing the unfolding scene in front of her. The moment seems to stretch on, each second reminding her of what could have been.

The ceremony continues, and as the moment arrives for Oscar to kiss his bride, the air catches in Y/n's throat. Y/n, along with all the guests gathered, watches as the newly weds lock lips, sealing their union in a heartfelt kiss. Y/n's heart clenches as she longs to be the one standing with Oscar, to be the one he's kissing.

Their kiss seems to last an eternity, each second a poignant reminder of the love that Oscar now shares with someone else. Y/n's eyes are fixed on the couple, her heart wallowing in sorrow and acceptance. The realization that she is no longer a part of Oscar's future washes over her, and she finds herself in the same bittersweet feeling that she found all those years ago.

Y/n, although her heart is heavy, knows she has no choice but to join in the applause. She raises her hands and claps along with the guests. Her hands come together in a rhythmic applause, the sound blending with the collective joy and celebration around her. Inside, her heart is aching, but on the outside, she manages to maintain a semblance of composure, hiding the storm of emotions within her.

April 27, 2027 | Reception

Time swiftly moves forward to the reception. Lando, as the best man, steps up to the podium, ready to deliver his speech. The room falls silent, and all eyes turn to him, waiting to hear his words. Lando takes a deep breath before starting, his voice filled with a mix of humor, warmth, and genuine affection for the couple.

Lando begins his best man speech with a warm smile, his eyes flickering across the guests. "Good evening, everyone. I feel incredibly honored to be standing here as the best man for this beautiful couple. Today we gather to celebrate love, commitment, and the beginning of a new journey for our newlyweds, Lily and Oscar. I've known Oscar for a long time, and I can confidently say that I've never seen him as happy as he is today, all thanks to the incredible woman sitting beside him."

As Lando continues with his speech, Y/n sits in her chair, listening intently. The mention of Oscar being the happiest he's ever been makes her chest tighten, as though an invisible weight is pressing down on her heart. The reality that Oscar has found true happiness with someone else, the very thing Y/n had once hoped to provide for him, is a bitter pill to swallow.

Y/n, lost in her thoughts, zones out during the last part of Lando's speech. The words around her turn into a blur, and she becomes unaware of the speech's conclusion. Her mind is preoccupied with the barrage of emotions swirling inside her, and she finds herself in a state of partial detachment from the ongoing celebration.

Lando, sensing that Y/n was lost in thought, gently places his hand on her shoulder. This gesture snaps her back to reality, and she becomes aware of the room around her again. Seeing her jolt slightly, he gazes at her with a compassionate glance. "Hey, it's your turn to give a speech."

Her heart rate quickens as she realizes it's her turn to give the speech, and she takes a deep breath to steady herself. She glances around the room, the weight of the moment settling heavily on her shoulders.

Y/n slowly walks up to the podium, her steps deliberate and measured. As she stands in front of the microphone, she can feel the eyes of gathered guests fixed on her, waiting for her words.

She stands behind the podium, taking a moment to collect herself before speaking. With a mixture of joy, love, and disbelief, she begins her speech.

She starts, "Good evening, everyone. For those who may not know me, I’m Y/n, the bride’s cousin, but truly, we’ve always been like sisters. Standing here today, I feel a flood of emotions - joy, love, and perhaps just a hint of disbelief that this day has finally come."

Y/n continues, "You see, when we were children, Lily and I would often engage in 'wedding' games. We'd don makeshift wedding veils made from pillowcases and fiercely argue over who would get to be the bride. It was a serious matter for us back then, and more often than not, we’d ultimately settle on her being the bride. According to her, she just 'looked more like one.' Well, Lily, I have to admit, you were absolutely right—because here you are today, looking stunning, more beautiful and radiant than I could have ever imagined."

Her voice is a mixture of warmth and sentimentality as she continues her speech. "It’s fascinating how childhood dreams have a way of becoming reality, and yet, it’s even more astonishing to witness how you’ve grown into the remarkable woman standing before us now. Over the years, I’ve watched you navigate the ups and downs of life with such grace, and today, as you marry Oscar, my heart swells with happiness for you both."

In the midst of her speech, Y/n’s eyes inadvertently meet Oscar’s, and a wave of emotions courses through her. The weight of the moment, combined with her feelings for Oscar, causes tears to well up in her eyes, making it increasingly difficult to continue speaking.

She pauses, attempting to blink back the tears that threaten to spill. Clearing her throat lightly, she tries to push through the momentary emotional wave that has struck her. The pain in her heart is evident, but she forces a smile, determined to complete her speech with a semblance of composure.

Taking a deep breath, Y/n collects herself and presses on with her speech, "While I’m brimming with joy for you both, I must admit I feel a tinge of bittersweetness, for today marks the beginning of a new chapter in your life — a chapter where you start your own family. But if there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that no matter how life changes, no matter where you go, we’ll always be as close as we’ve been."

Y/n steals another quick glance in Oscar's direction before continuing. Her emotions are still close to the surface, but she plows on, speaking with a mixture of bittersweet happiness and nostalgia.

"You’re not just my cousin; you’re my sister, and this connection we share is something that will forever remain unchanged. So here’s to the both of you. May your love be as strong and lasting as our bond has been all these years. And Lily, if this day proves anything, it’s that you were always destined to be the bride." she says, wiping away her tears with a small handkerchief Lando handed her.

As Y/n completes her speech, her eyes inadvertently find their way back to Oscar. The gaze she gives him mirrors the one she had when they parted ways three years ago. The pain, the longing, and the unresolved emotions are all still there, making her next words more strained.

With her gaze still fixed on Oscar, Y/n struggles to keep her emotions in check as she continues her speech, her voice trembling slightly. Despite the ache in her heart, she forces a smile, her words now directed towards Oscar.

"And to Oscar, I hope you enjoy growing old with her as much as I enjoyed growing up with her." Each word feels like a dagger to her heart, but she finishes her speech, the pain in her eyes reflecting the depth of her unspoken feelings.

Y/n, fighting to maintain her composure, finally comes to the end of her speech. Her voice wavers slightly as she utters her final words. "A toast! To Lily and Oscar!"

Her words hang in the air, a bittersweet sentiment that lingers in the room. The guests raise their glasses in agreement, blissfully unaware of the turmoil within Y/n.

Lily, moved by Y/n's heartfelt speech, stands up and embraces her cousin in a tight hug. But while Lily basks in the moment, blissfully unaware of the pain her happiness is causing Y/n, the latter can only focus on Oscar, her eyes filling with tears as she gazes at him. The raw emotions bubbling beneath the surface seem to intensify, and it takes all her strength to hold back the floodgates.

April 27, 2027 | After the Reception

The reception has come to an end, and the hotel lobby is relatively quiet at this late hour. Lando, getting ready to head out, spots Y/n standing in the corner, holding her crumpled gown in one hand and her phone in the other. He approaches her with a concerned expression.

"Hey," Lando says softly, standing beside Y/n. His voice is gentle, tinged with concern as he looks at her. "Are you alright? You seem a bit... off?"

Y/n glances up at Lando, her expression weary. The emotional toll of the evening is evident on her face. She forces a small smile, trying to appear okay. "Oh, yeah, I'm fine," she replies, her voice slightly strained. "Just a bit tired, you know."

Lando can sense that Y/n isn't being completely honest, but he doesn't press the issue. Instead, he offers her two options. "You sure you're okay? You can always crash at my place if you want," he suggests. "Or, if you're up for it, we could go for a drive. Whatever you prefer."

Y/n ponders for a moment, weighing her options. Finally, she decides to take Lando up on his offer for a drive.

"A drive sounds good," she says, her voice slightly weary but also filled with a hint of relief. "Lead the way."

With a nod, Lando leads the way towards his car, parked outside the hotel. He unlocks the door, takes her gown, and gestures for her to get in. Once they're both settled in the car, Lando starts the engine and begins driving.

The silent drive envelops them, its quietness only interrupted by the soft hum of the engine and the occasional sound of passing cars. Both Lando and Y/n seem weary, the evening's events taking their toll on them.

Lando glances over at Y/n periodically, noting the fatigue etched on her face.

He drives them to an empty beach, where only the signs of life are a few stray cats and dogs sleeping beneath a nearby bridge. The beach is mostly deserted, and the soft sound of waves crashing against the shore adds a soothing atmosphere to the surroundings.

He parks the car and shuts off the engine, the sudden silence feeling both peaceful and surreal at the same time.

Lando gets out of the car and opens the trunk. He rummages through it, pulling out two bottles of beer. He closes the trunk and walks over to where Y/n is standing, holding the bottles in one hand.

"Wanna share a cold one?" he asks, offering her one of the bottles.

As Lando hands Y/n a bottle, she glances at him with a puzzled expression on her face, her confusion evident. "You just happen to have cold beer in your trunk?" she asks, raising an eyebrow.

Lando laughs at her questions and explains, shrugging his shoulders. "Nah, I don't keep beers in my car!" he says, chuckling. "It was supposed to be for the wedding, in case we ran out. You know how weddings can be."

Y/n nods in agreement and requests a bottle opener. Lando pats his pockets, searching for one. After a moment, he pulls out a small, multi-purpose tool from his pocket that serves as a bottle opener.

"Can I?" he says, gesturing for her to hand him the beer.

Y/n thanks him and hands her bottle to him, waiting for to him to open his bottle. As he uses it to pop the lids off both bottles with a satisfying fizzing sound, she takes her bottle and watches the foam settle on the top of the liquid.

Lando closes the trunk and follows Y/n down to the sand. They walk down in silence, the soft sound of their footsteps blending with the gentle rhythmic crashing of the waves.

The cool night air wraps around them, offering a refreshing reprieve from the day’s festivities. The soft light of the stars and the moon casts a gentle glow over the beach, making the surrounding area appear almost magical.

As they reach a spot on the beach and sit down, Lando takes a sip of his beer and sets the bottle down in the sand. He glances over at Y/n, his expression curious. “Hey, can I ask you something?” he says.

Y/n looks up at Lando, her expression open. “Sure, what is it?” she responds, her curiosity piqued by his inquiry.

Lando takes another sip of his drink before continuing. “When we were standing there, right before you were supposed to give the speech, you started acting kinda strange. I’m just wondering… did something happen?”

He pauses for a moment, the memory of their walk down the aisle surfacing in his mind. His tone becomes concerned and inquisitive. “And when we were walking down the aisle, you seemed… I don’t know, kinda on edge too. Did something happen back there or…”

Y/n sighs heavily, knowing she can’t avoid the question any longer. She gazes out at the ocean, the weight of her emotions visible in her expression. “I guess you noticed that something was up after all,” she says, her voice tinged with a hint of regret. “It’s a long story, Lan.”

Lando looks at Y/n, giving her a reassuring smile. “You know what? We’ve got all the time in the world right now, it’s just you and me.” he says, his voice gentle and inviting. “And I’m all ears if you need to talk about whatever is bothering you.”

Y/n feels a mix of emotions, knowing that Lando is willing to listen to her and that she can finally open up about what’s been bothering her. She takes a deep breath, her voice slightly shaky as she begins to tell her story.

“Okay… So I guess I should start by telling you that Oscar is my ex-boyfriend.” She sighs, feeling the weight of her words settle over her.

As Y/n drops the revelation about Oscar being her ex, Lando’s response is somewhat unexpected— his beer goes up his nose, causing him to cough and splutter lightly. Y/n stifles a laugh, finding a brief moment of humor amidst the intensity of their conversation.

“Hey,” she giggles playfully, “you okay there?” Lando clears his throat, wiping away the remnants of his beer mishap.

“Yeah, sorry about that,” he laughs, his eyes still watering slightly. “I just… did not expect that detail?”

They both laugh softly, and the moment of levity helps to alleviate some of the tension hanging in the air.

Y/n takes a deep breath, regaining her composure, and going on with her story. “Long story short, things didn’t end well between us… I guess seeing him again as the groom, all dressed up and looking ready to start a new chapter in his life, well, it just hit me pretty hard,” she confesses, the sadness and lingering pain evident in her voice.

Y/n takes a moment to gather her thoughts, summoning the courage to share the painful truth. “The main reason we ended things was because he wasn’t ready to settle down. He didn’t want what I want— commitment, a future together, you know? It hurt, but I had to respect his decision.” Her voice trails off, memories of their breakup flooding her mind, stinging her again.

The mention of Oscar’s reluctance to commit triggers a painful memory for Y/n, causing her eyes to cloud with a mix of sadness and longing. “And now, seeing stand there, so ready to marry someone else, with the biggest smile on his face… It’s like my hope of us being together has been shattered all over again.”

Her laughter is tinged with bitterness, the irony of the situation not lost on her. “To make matters worse, it just had to be my cousin, right? Like some sort of fucking soap opera. I mean, what are the odds of that?” Y/n muses, shaking her head slightly.

Seeing the sadness etched on Y/n’s face, Lando can’t help but feel empathy for her situation. He reaches out, gently placing a comforting hand on her shoulder, his touch conveying a silent understanding.

As Lando reaches out and touches her shoulder with a comforting gesture, Y/n feels a wave of gratitude towards him. She looks at him and forces a small smile, appreciating his support.

“Thank you, Lan,” she mutters, her voice barely above a whisper. “It’s just… hard to see him so happy with someone else when I still have feelings for him- well, I thought I didn’t love him anymore, I thought I had moved on, but seeing him today… it just brought everything back.”

Hearing Y/n’s words, Lando clears his throat, a thoughtful expression on his face. “Y’know, Y/n, it’s completely understandable that you feel this way. Seeing an ex move on can be incredibly difficult, especially when you’re still clinging to those lingering feelings and hopes of what could have been.

He pauses, considering his words carefully. “Maybe it’s time for you to actually let go and move forward. Leave the past behind.”

In the midst of their conversation, a small tabby kitten suddenly appears and jumps into Y/n’s lap, surprising the both of them. The sudden appearance of the kitten seems to momentarily distract them from their heavy discussion.

“Whoa, where did you come from, little one?” Y/n exclaims with a surprised laugh, as she gently pets the kittens fur.

Lando chuckles and remarks, “Y’know, they say cats are surprisingly good at sensing emotions. It must have sensed your sadness, Y/n. They can absorb negative vibes like little fluffy energy absorbers.”

Y/n couldn’t help but smile at Lando’s explanation, the idea of the cat absorbing her sadness somehow comforting. “That makes sense, I guess. It’s kind of sweet, in a way,” she muses, continuing to pet the kitten which responds with a soft purr. “Maybe this kitty will absorb all of these painful emotions and turn them to into something positive.”

As if sensing the conversation, the kitten nuzzles against Y/n’s hand, it’s purring growing louder, sending gentle vibrations throughout her fingers. The warmth and innocence of the moment provide a brief respite from her emotional turmoil.

Y/n chuckles, but her laughter is tinged with bitterness. She looks down at the kitten in her lap. "I realized something earlier. I'm always be the bridesmaid, and never the bride. It’s like my destiny is to always be the supporting character in someone else’s love story, not the one who gets their own happy ending."

She sighs softly, a mixture of resignation and disappointment in her voice. “I never thought that I’d be that cliché— the forever bridesmaid, never finding true love. Yet here I am, witnessing it all unfold in front of me.”

Lando locks eyes with Y/n, his gaze sincere and filled with a hint of something more than just friendly concern. “Love has a mysterious way of hiding in the most unexpected places. Maybe… the person you’re looking for is right in front of you, and you just need to open your eyes to see it.”

His words hang in the air, leaving them both pondering the possibility of love closer than they think.

masterlist

taglist:

@nepobbylver @wobblymug @xoscar03 @irishmanwhore

[sv5hive]

too little, too late. | lh44

pairing: lewis hamilton x fem!reader

content warning(s): angst, swearing, lewis is a bit of a dick in this sorry, unhappy ending because i love being miserable 🫶🏻

word count: 1,763

note: thank you so much for all the likes and reblogs on my first work a few days ago!! i didn't expect all the love so it is very, very appreciated :) this is a bit long so get comfy! and i also listened to you're losing me by taylor swift while writing so... yeah.

(psst! part 2 is here!)

(masterlist!)

memories from the night you two met flashed through your mind as you stood alone in the dim kitchen. the hangover from the next morning meant most of the night was a blur of shots, flashing lights and sweaty bodies but those deep brown eyes and endearing smile remained sharply in focus.

you stared at the two cold plates of dinner abandoned on the table and a bottle of wine nearing the end.

where had it all gone wrong?

six years.

six years of supporting him through everything.

and you loved being with lewis no matter what. seeing him in his element while racing was just as exciting for you as it was for him. but when would it end? you couldn't keep your life on pause forever.

back in 2017 when you first started dating you discussed a life of peace. a life with a big family and a nice house in england where your children could grow up normally like the both of you did. and you weren't foolish. you would never truly have peace when you were in a relationship with lewis hamilton, the face of formula 1. but you were willing to give up any sense of normality if it meant you could be with the love of your life.

or so you thought.

years passed as you watched all your friends get engaged and married, settle down and start their own families. at every bachelorette party, wedding reception, baby shower, family event you would be asked the same questions.

"when is he going to pop the question? you two have to get married! i bet he's planning to do it soon."

and every time you would have the same response.

"oh we're just taking it slow. he's pretty busy with racing and we both agreed that it wouldn't be fair for him to be away so much."

and you really did believe that at first.

either you didn't notice the stares of pity or you ignored them to convince yourself that everything was ok. it was only when you brought up the idea of finally having kids that you started doubting yourself.

"hey, lew. i've been thinking."

"hmm, yeah? what about." he replied absentmindedly, still searching netflix for a good movie to watch.

you passed him the bowl of popcorn to hold while you got under the blanket.

"i was thinking that we're finally ready to start a family."

he stilled. that was the last thing he thought you would bring up.

"lewis?"

"i want a family too, you know that. but i can't retire without getting that eighth championship. we're almost there. besides, i don't wanna leave you at home with a kid and not be there for every step of the way."

both of you knew at the rate mercedes was going, lewis would need a miracle and a half to win another title against red bull and their rocket ship.

he avoided your eyes and clearly thought that was the end of the matter so you accepted that when he was ready he would tell you. right?

you tossed and turned that night, unable to get the way he brushed off the topic so coldly out of your head. did you imagine it? that flicker of hesitance on his face? a pit of uneasiness settled at the bottom of your stomach as you desperately tried to reason with yourself. no. everything is fine. you had already waited a few years. what was a couple more?

so you tucked away your dreams of a family into the back of your mind for the time being and just enjoyed your relationship with lewis. every date felt like the first and you never wanted your love to end.

"lewis...this is too much!" as you stared in awe at the lone table in the middle of a completely empty restaurant.

rose petals led you two all the way from the entrance to a table with a single rose stood in a vase in the centre as candles flickered softly.

"for you? never."

staring at him in the golden light, you couldn't help but blush at his romantic gesture. he was making up for being away during a triple header and you hated to admit it but you could get used to this.

racing. you smiled at the thought of seeing lewis race. it was like seeing an artist produce a masterpiece every time pencil hit paper. he truly was an incredible sight to see.

you were there for each of his championships since 2017. you witnessed the joy of 2020 and the heartbreak of 2021. you were there, celebrating each win with him and consoling him after each loss, every time. you had fallen in love with the sport you once had no knowledge of just as hard as you had fallen for lewis. you knew how much of a toll each season took on him and you were always going to be there to pick him back up. his world became yours as you met his team and soon enough you were a familiar sight in the mercedes garage.

wasn't seven world championships enough for him?

you would never ask him to give up his career for you. and he would never ask that of you. but after years of waiting for the next step you couldn't help but wonder whether he still wanted that with you.

he was more than an hour late now. both of your schedules had been almost completely full for the past few months and you thought it would be nice to catch up over homemade dinner.

apparently he didn't think the same.

you hadn't bothered calling or texting. he always turned his phone off while at work anyways. as you finished off the last mouthful of wine the jingle of keys and the door unlocking brought you back out of your thoughts.

heavy footsteps trudged through the hallway.

"hey baby, i didn't think you would be up- what's all this?"

"dinner. i've been waiting for two hours now." you turned away from the counter to face him.

"shit. i am so sorry. i just got so caught up at work. we've been trying to improve the car to-"

"-to beat red bull. i know. i know."

"i promise i'll make it up to you. what about dinner next week? at that chinese restaurant you really like?" he walked towards you and went to wrap his arms around you before you pushed him away.

"stop, lewis. just stop. i can't keep doing this." you couldn't look him in the eyes.

a pin drop could be heard as lewis' blood ran cold.

"what?"

the change in atmosphere almost made you wish you had never said anything. almost.

"i can't keep waiting on you, lewis. i'm sorry."

"i said i would make it up to you." the look of pure confusion on his face would be amusing if it weren't for the fact that you were on the verge of tears.

"it's not just about dinner, lewis."

"then what is it about?"

"everything. god, we've been together for eight years and we're not even engaged and nowhere near starting a family. we have nothing to show for it. i knew i would have to wait and i was fine with that but i just can't anymore. this isn't what i imagined for us."

"so what? you're just going to leave? you know how i feel about having kids."

"and i get that, i do. but are you even planning on retiring in the near future? we're not getting any younger and i've been ready for a while now. i just don't think our ideas of our future are the same anymore."

"am i just meant to drop everything for you then? give it all up?"

"fuck, of course not, lewis. i would never ask you to do that. never. but sometimes it feels like you choose your career over me. and i know what it takes to be in formula 1 to win, i know you need to give it your full focus. i just, i need you to choose me for once. choose us."

"no, you don't know what it takes because if you did, you wouldn't be doing this to me right now. in the middle of the season."

you blinked. once. twice. you couldn't believe what you were hearing.

"are you fucking kidding me, lewis? i'm ending our six year relationship and you're thinking of how it's going to effect your season?"

"yes! fuck, this is my whole life. it always has been and it always will be."

there it is. confirmation from the man himself. you stumbled on your words trying to convey your anger as your blood continuously boiled at his miserable attempt to fix his mess.

"have you ever even thought about how i've felt all these years? giving every excuse in the book to our families and friends about why we haven't taken the next step in our relationship and defending you when they said i was too good for you? you may get to avoid them by going to the races but i don't have that privilege."

your throat was dry at this point as you gasped for air and still, he was stood almost unbothered at the fact you were hopelessly clinging onto the last remaining threads of your relationship, willing him to fight back.

"so that's it? you're not going to stop me?"

tears pooled at your eyes as you realised this was really happening.

"well clearly you've thought this out pretty well."

you didn't know whether to laugh, cry or throw the empty bottle of wine at his head.

"you are fucking unbelievable, lewis. i thought this meant something to you but clearly not."

you stormed towards the door and opened it. you paused while silently hoping he would beg you to stay. hoping he would risk everything for you.

but it never came.

you wiped away your tears and tried to at least sound somewhat assertive despite your voice wavering.

"let me know when you're not at home and i'll come get my things."

you slammed the door shut with a resounding bang and walked away from the place and person you had called home for so long.

he sighed and rubbed his face with his hand. as he moved to get a beer out of the fridge his gaze fell on the calendar stuck to the front. there was a red heart around today's date with "anniversary!" written in your handwriting.

fuck.

note: yikes. i hope you aren't too sad because of me. any feedback is appreciated!! let me know what else you wanna see :)

[darkbluekies]

A lot of jealousy filled yandere one shot please!!,,,been craving for some jealousy lately.

Jealousy makes people blind

Yandere!king OC x fem reader

Summary: you have to join in on the king's meeting, but the others gazes towards you makes the meeting end in blood.

Warnings: killing, beheading, blood, jealousy, obsessive behavior, yandere themes

Word count: 1.5k

A king who has everything and can get whatever he desires should be satisfied, shouldn’t he? Wrong. Edmund is greedy and violent and he’ll not stop fighting until he gets what he wants. Like how he got you. You can still see the horrific scene from when he forced you to marry him when you close your eyes, all the blood covering the floor, all the bodies. It hasn't disappeared yet. Uncleanable stains in the carpets and a metallic scent in the air is still prominent in the ballroom. You don't go there anymore. 

Edmund is currently rummaging through the chamber after his brooches. He would lose his own head if it weren't attached to his neck. Weirdly enough, he never seems to lose you or his wedding ring?

"Where the fuck are they?!" he shouts and rips the pillow that's right beside you off the bed. "I know I put them here somewhere!"

You should probably tell him that you put the brooches in your bedside table drawer. They were scattered across the floor yesterday and you knew that if they disappeared, he'd get one of his tantrums … so you put it in your drawer for safe keeping. He notices how you flinch when he rips the paraffin lamp down on the floor and quickly comes back to his senses. He crawls up on the bed and cups your cheeks.

"I'm sorry, love", he says softly. "I didn’t mean to scare you. Have you seen my brooches? I have to find them before the meeting."

Kings from other kingdoms are coming to the castle to discuss peace and alliance. And you have to join since you're now the queen.

"I put them away in my bedside table drawer …", you say shyly. 

"Why did you do that?"

"T-They were lying on the floor yesterday. I was scared they'd break or disappear."

All anger runs off his face and he gives you a relieved smile before kissing your lips.

"What would I do without you, hm?" he smiles and opens your drawer, finding the two jeweled brooches inside. "Thank you, my love."

You follow the small jewelry as he clips it onto his expensive clothing.

"You should make yourself ready too", Edmund says. "Although I'm not happy that you have to join my meeting because you have no reason to engage in politics … I'll accept it."

"Please don't do anything stupid."

"I won't do anything stupid. But if the other kings suggest something stupid, I will behead them and burn their castle to the ground!"

"That's not how you have a civilized discussion."

"I know. I don't care. If the court had not suggested that I invite them over to talk, they'd have stormed the castle!" He cups your cheeks. "I won't let anything happen to you." He lets go and starts walking back and forth again. "So now I have to argue with these pigs about my territory! For heaven's sake! It's my territory! They have no right to take it! And now we should compromise for whatever reasons I don't have the energy to care about!"

"Edmund. Calm down."

He sighs and nods.

"Fine", he agrees. "Okay, get ready now so we can get this over with. Afterwards, you and I are going to take a nap."

"I'd like to go to the library actually …", you say.

"No. We're going to nap."

You sigh and fight the urge to roll your eyes.

An hour later, you and Edmund walk through the castle hand in hand, escorted by royal guards. Edmund always holds you close whenever someone is around, whether it be a man or a woman. You are his and no one else can be trusted. Every woman in the kingdom dreams of being in your position and jealousy can make a person do horrible stuff.

They walk into the meeting room and see the other three kings sitting around the round table. They have scars over their faces and look more masculine than any man you’ve ever seen before. They remind you of vikings. Without noticing, you squeeze Edmund’s hand tighter. He smiles at you and kisses your temple. The other three kings stand up to shake your hand, but Edmund stops your hand before you can touch them. 

“Don’t touch my wife”, he says coldly. “Don’t even look at her. If she has to be here, then you’re not going to look at her.”

They laugh awkwardly and sit down again. You immediately feel out of place once they start discussing. Edmund’s hand is squeezing yours under the table, his grip growing tighter and tighter each minute. You give him a worried glance. 

“You’re hurting me”, you whisper. 

He sighs out and lightens his grip. He lifts up your intervened hands to his lips and kisses your fingers. You notice how the other kings gazes glance over to you and Edmund. Edmund notices. Before you have time to stop him, he shoots them dark eyes. 

“I told you not to look at her”, he says warningly. “Y/N, go outside.”

Your blood goes cold. You take a harder grip on Edmunds hand, a silent plea to make him realize what he’s going to do. 

“Go outside”, he tells you, giving you a small push towards the door. 

You understand that if you don’t listen to him, you’ll have to relive the day that has made you sleepless at night. Involuntarily, you stand up and make your way out the door. Edmund closes it behind you. You only have time to see his maniatic eyes before the door separates you. Edmund turns to the three kings and pulls out his sword from his belt. If there’s one thing Edmund can handle, it’s his sword.

“I told you not to look at her”, he says deeply and swings the sword around to give them a scare. “I told you not to look at my property. She’s mine. I’ve killed for her before and I will do it again.”

“Your majesty, we didn’t mean any disrespect to your beautiful wife”, one of the kings say slowly, holding his hands out in front of him. “Put down the weapon.”

“Beautiful, huh?” Edmund’s eyes are crazed and his heart is pounding too fast, too loud. He swings his sword. “Get down on your knees. Now.”

The other king gulps and slowly sinks down on the floor. Edmund puts the point of the sword to the man’s throat. 

“You’re right”, he says darkly. “My wife is beautiful. The most beautiful woman in this entire world. But you shouldn't look at her. You shouldn’t tell me that she’s beautiful. I can see that for myself. You probably have some real nasty thoughts about my wife, don’t you?” Edmund lets the glare move over to the other two men. “You do too. Why wouldn’t you? My wife is wonderful. But you’re not her husband. I am. She’s mine. Only mine.”

With that said, he swings the sword and the kneeling king’s head in front of him falls down to the wooden floor with a ‘thump’ while the body falls to the other side. Edmund stares down at the head, heavily breathing. He should feel bad, shouldn’t he? He thinks he should. But he doesn’t. 

“You two”, he says and points the bloody sword towards the remaining kings. “Anything you want to say about my wife, hm? Want to say how beautiful she is? How you wished she was yours? Continue wish upon a fucking star. She’s not going anywhere.”

He loses composition of himself and swings his sword left to right, slicing whatever piece of meat he can get a hold of. Once he notices that none of the men are standing anymore, he drops his sword and walks to the door. He finds you sitting outside, curled up in a ball with your back against the wall and hiding your face down in your knees. You look up once he comes out and his heart stops at the sight of your tears. He remembers how you were crying at the masquerade he held three months ago. You were so pretty then and he loved to see you so vulnerable. Whatever this is … he hates it. You have a look in your eyes that you didn’t have that night. Last time, your eyes softened once you saw the king … this time they go wide. You’re afraid of him. 

“Shh, shh”, he whispers and sinks down on his knees by your side. He cups your wet cheeks, stroking the skin with his thumbs. “Don’t cry, everything is okay now.”

“L-Let me go!” you sob while trying to push him away with your hands and turn your face away.

“It’s okay, my love.”

“I hate you!”

“I know my jealousy can be frightening, I know, okay?” He kisses your nose. “But it keeps you safe! It reassures our relationship! No one should break us apart!” He rests his forehead against yours. “Oh, I love you so much, my queen. I can’t live without you!”

You’re a sobbing mess in his hands. He tries holding you together, making sure that the pieces of you don’t fall apart. You’re squirming against him as if you were mad yourself.

“I’m protecting you”, Edmund says but you don’t know if it is to reassure you or reassure himself. 

You close your eyes and sob. Jealousy can make a person do horrible stuff.

[sysmedsaresexist]

Hey ~

It’s been so amazing seeing the positive change on this blog, we are so here for that kind of growth and energy!

We saw that you recently reconciled with @/sophieinwonderland, and we have a couple questions.

Are you okay with and support those who use “tulpamancy” language (a huge thing she defends)? Curious about this because we have seen many Buddhist POC systems express genuine concern with that language (not the practice, just the words “tulpa” and “tulpamancy”)

Are you okay with those who equate therians/nonhumans and the people who love them to zoophiles (another thing she has stood by which was incredibly triggering and offensive to us, a therian-heavy system).

Personally, we followed her for a long time then unfollowed after we saw someone else’s post which brought this stuff to light. We are just curious what your thoughts on this are!

(Also as far as we know she has shared some really harmful misinformation about dissociative disorders… specifically iirc that DID can form after childhood and trauma is not necessary for this disorder to form. Just letting you know in case you weren’t aware!)

- Starling

I kind of went back and forth on whether to reply to this, but ultimately decided that it would be for the best. I'm sure many of my followers are wondering the same thing and what it means.

The truth is, we're married now. I finally wooed her with my charm.

@sophieinwonderland just so you know that this is out here. I hope it's a fair response to both of us.

No, in all seriousness and honesty, I reached out to sophie because she had the largest audience and sway, and when you're so violently mean to each other, you develop a special bond. It's been... jeez, monthsss since I interacted with sophie directly. I don't know if Sophie will agree, but I think we had a habit of getting each other going, with more ridiculous posts on each side the longer the spats went on. I think the fact that we both left each other alone for so long was really good for both of us, and over that time, as much as sophie saw changes in me, I saw them in her. I found that when she wasn't being an inflammatory twot (/aff) and stayed away from the tulpa-language debate, I agreed more and more with some of her posts. She's really been doing good work with the stuff on reddit-- the RAMCOA deniers and fdc.

And what kind of person would I be if I didn't give her the same chance that she and her followers gave me?

Yeah, she's done some really shitty things, but so have I, just to different demographics (? Does that make sense??).

As well, reconciliation and interaction doesn't mean total support. I'm sure I have beliefs that sophie doesn't support. I'm sure sophie will reblog posts of mine that she agrees with, and skip the ones she doesn't like, and I'll do the same.

All that said, let's get a bit more specific.

The post linked in the ask. I am going to link it so that people can make their own informed decision. I think, though, that most of you reading this answer lived through all of that, experiencing each event first hand as it unfolded. Many people have issues with other events not listed. I can't cover everything. Again, interaction doesn't mean total support, and I can decide at any point to step back in support.

So.

Tulpamancy: I'm white as shit. I made my posts about the topic, and I reblogged everything I could in support of changing the language. I will continue to support changing language. This is a topic that is so much bigger than me, though. That's not to say I don't want to try and that I won't support efforts, but... I think the easiest way to explain this point is to use an example-- that it's not feasible to block and refuse to engage with people using the language. However, in those interactions, I can advocate where possible, and not interact with content I don't agree with.

Therians: I'm going to be super honest... I don't know what that is. I especially don't know how it relates to zoophiles. I do remember there being a lot of talk about this, I remember reading what people were saying and Sophie's response, but... I think the only thing I can pull specifically to mind was reading her response and going,

I really can't comment on this. I don't think that having sex with a therian is the same as having sex with an animal?? If you were hurt by something, obviously I support you.

Dissociative disorders: again, I've been watching her grow. I think she's been doing a lot more research as she's been battling fdc and it really shows. She made a post recently about whether DID could happen without trauma and I think I even agreed with it-- something about rare, fringe cases being inevitable in all things, and I was like, you know, I can agree with that. That's a good, happy medium. It's a far cry from what she used to say. I'm seeing a lot more respect about the topic and research, I see better advice to her followers. I want to give her a chance on this front.

[more-better-words]

This engagement story just won't let me go, folks, and I keep oscillating between "eh, this isn't anything, is it?" and "No, it is A Thing!" But I have been encouraged to just be unhinged, so unhinged it is!

(Previously on)

Trip let out a surprised little laugh. "Huh. I guess we're engaged now."

"So it would seem," T'Pol said.

"I feel like we should celebrate somehow." He thrust his tongue into his cheek, mouth pursed thoughtfully. "Any ideas?"

"Well," she said, "on my last leave, I did acquire several bars of Belgian chocolate. I'm told it's quite high quality."

He smiled a slow, intrigued, comprehending smile. "Did you now?" She nodded. "And here I am, with that bottle of scotch Malcolm got me for my birthday back in my quarters."

"Perhaps you should go get it," she said guilelessly.

"Maybe I should," he agreed. "And then what?"

She shrugged. "Whatever feels appropriate."

"Uh-huh." He turned, then paused right before hitting the door control. "So lemme get this straight - you're suggesting that we celebrate this momentous occasion in our lives by gettin' wasted and playin' grab ass?"

It was times like this that her ability to keep a straight face was his favorite thing about her. "I believe that I am."

He, on the other hand, could not have kept a straight face to save himself from a court martial. He grinned broadly. "I like the way you think."

In the time it took Trip to get back to his quarters, fetch the bottle of scotch and a pair of glasses, and return, T'Pol had turned down the lights, lit some candles, and laid out a blanket in the floor at the edge of her bunk. She'd also retrieved her chocolate stash from the bottom drawer of her desk; one of the bars was unwrapped, and missing a visible, bite-shaped chunk. "Gettin' started without me?" Trip asked. She delicately wiped her lips.

"It was only one bite," she said innocently. He rolled his eyes.

"You know what? Just for that-" He opened the scotch and took a pull straight from the bottle, then nodded appreciatively as he swallowed. "Oh, that's nice," he said. "Thanks, Malcolm."

He poured a few fingers worth into each glass and offered her one. "A toast," he said, "to you and me." His eyes locked onto hers, a little smile pulling at the corner of his mouth. "And to findin' something I didn't even know I was lookin' for, right in front of me."

"Hear, hear," she said, touching her glass to his before taking a drink. Her expression shifted thoughtfully.

"What do you think?" he asked.

"It is…surprisingly pleasant."

He smiled, and sat in the floor with his back to her bunk. "So, do I get some chocolate?"

"Of course." She sat beside him, offering him one of the unwrapped bars. He opened it and took a bite.

"Wow…you really did get the good stuff."

"As I said," she shrugged. "But it is only fitting. We are celebrating."

"Damn right we are." Trip took a drink, smiling at her fondly. "And I guess now's the time to ask, because...why the hell not. I know why I wanna marry you, but why do you wanna marry me?"

She swallowed her bite of chocolate. "Because the future I want for myself requires you."

He stared, eyebrows lifting in mildly disbelieving amazement. "That is a REALLY good answer." She shrugged again.

"It's the truth." She washed down some more chocolate with a sip of scotch. "These past months, I have found it...extremely liberating to finally be honest with myself, and with you, with regard to what I want." Her eyes met his. "In every sense."

He smiled slowly, his gaze lingering on hers. "It feels good, don't it? For so long, I didn't have a clue what to call this...and I was too scared to try and give it a name. Turns out givin' it a name made it better."

"Another toast, then," she said. "To honesty."

He tapped his chocolate bar against hers. "To honesty."

He draped his arm around her shoulders, and she scooted closer to his side, as they traded off scotch and chocolate, enjoying the growing loose light-headedness of intoxication and each other's company. He turned his head slightly, nuzzling at the tip of her ear. "You know, I always liked your ears, but I never wanted to make a big deal about it. I figured you got enough of that from everybody else."

"Yes, and thank you."

"'Sides..." He lifted a hand to gently turn her face towards his, brushing her lips with his thumb. "I always preferred these." A wry little smile cross his face. "Even when all I wanted was for you to shut up."

"Curious," she said. "Because I could say the same."

"Maybe we shoulda just shut each other up that way," he murmured, brushing his lips against hers. "Saved ourselves a lotta trouble."

"Unlikely, but…" She briefly seized his lower lip with her teeth, tugging gently. "A interesting thought experiment."

He laughed against her mouth, reaching for her, pulling her onto his lap as they kissed, loose lipped, tongues searching. She turned to face him fully, each knee on either side of his hips, holding his face between cradling, possessive hands. He let his hands slide down her back - he had made certain promises regarding her ass, after all. She lifted herself slightly on her knees to let him help himself, a little sound of approval emanating from her throat. He answered it; nothing could feel as good in the moment as the friction of that movement.

She withdrew just far enough for speech. "I believe I like the flavor of scotch," she informed him softly, brushing his tongue with hers. "But I think this is how I prefer to taste it." He chuckled, fond and more than a little turned on.

"Mmmm…you are one fun drunk, sweetheart."

"I have fun with you."

Something in her tone cut through the tipsy haze, making him pull back to look at her. It dawned on him that she had just made quite possibly the biggest admission she had ever made to him - bigger than her age, bigger than any acknowledgement of her emotions, good or bad. "I'm glad," he whispered. "I really am."

She swallowed, her eyes wide and shining and vulnerable, and all he could do was pull her close, a hand at the back of her neck, holding her head to his shoulder. I'm safe with you, he heard her say without words.

Always, baby.

She was so warm in his arms, her body soft against him, and suddenly his eyes were heavy. The booze, the excitement, the day itself...it was all catching up with him. The taste of the scotch and the chocolate, the flickering candlelight, and the spicy, incense fragrance of her skin filled his senses. "T'Pol?" he murmured. "Are you-?" A heavy sigh on his shoulder answered that question. "Okay."

Neither of them woke until long after the candles had burned down.

[bittybug-sunflower-blog]

Chapter summary: Hunter and Beka, along with their team, overcome challenges, including fighting the Empire. Hunter and Beka get married surrounded by friends and family, lead fulfilling lives, and have a child named Jafan. Hunter expresses gratitude to Beka for their life together, and they reaffirm their commitment to each other.

Warning: none

Word count: 3442

Rating: 18+

Extra: alternate universe story

…..

Chapter 20

As everyone was adapting to the new normal, Beka and Crosshair emerged from the medical bay with Tech, their faces a mix of relief and determination.

"Now, it'll take time to adjust," began Tech as he hobbled, still recovering from his broken ankle.

"Yeah, yeah," Crosshair said, looking at his new cybernetic hand, testing its capabilities.

"How do you feel?" Hunter asked, looking at Beka with his hand on his hip, concern evident in his eyes.

Beka walked up to Hunter and smiled, "Just a bit of surgery and some med patches. No permanent damage," she said, giving Hunter a quick peck on the lips.

"What now?" Omega asked, curiosity sparking in her eyes.

"With all the data destroyed, and Beka declared 'dead' thanks to Jazzori. I say we can finally feel safe," Hunter smiled, a sense of relief washing over him.

"Are you going to stay this time?" Omega asked, her voice tinged with hope as she looked at Beka.

Beka crouched down to Omega's eye level, her expression warm. "I wouldn't want to be anywhere if I'm not with you guys," she said, a genuine smile spreading across her face, reaffirming her commitment to the team.

The three of them stood together, gazing at the clear skies, their thoughts drifting to the countless lives they had saved, the children they had protected, and the bonds they had formed as a team. In the quiet moment, they found solace and strength in each other, knowing that their unity had made all the difference in the lives they had touched.

"I'm heading to Pantora to help get some of the clones settled," Echo said to Emerie, his tone resolute. "I'm sure Senator Chuchi would find what you have to say very helpful for our cause."

"I have a lot to make up for. I'd like to help however much I can," Emerie Karr smiled back, her determination matching Echo's.

Echo put a warm hand on her shoulder before they both started walking towards their newly acquired ship, ready to engage with the other clones and make a difference in their lives.

"Beka, Master, I have a favor to ask," Seneca said with Biala wrapped around her arm.

"Yes?" Beka replied, turning her attention to her former padawan.

"I'd like you to train my sons," Seneca requested, a hint of hope in her voice.

Beka glanced over to see Seneca's sons playing with fruit but not touching it as it hovered in the air. "I'd be happy to," she agreed warmly, ready to impart her knowledge and guidance to the next generation.

"Well, we're off for a while," Valree smiled, her expression bright as she approached Beka, with Jetto following closely behind.

"Off? Where are you two heading?" Seneca inquired, curiosity piqued. Biala excusing herself to attend to her sons.

"Got to collect a bounty," Valree chuckled, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

"Going to help Senator Organa with this 'rebellion'," Jetto responded, his tone serious yet determined.

"Will you see Boba again?" Beka asked, concern evident in her voice.

"Maybe, but I'm prepared if I am," Jetto responded with resolve.

"You going too?" Beka asked the little droid, her voice filled with curiosity.

Sprig beeped in response, its lights flickering with excitement.

"He's going to come help me," Jetto explained with a smirk, his eyes glinting with determination.

"Good luck, little guy," Beka said, patting Sprig's head affectionately as they prepared for their journey ahead.

Beka's smile radiated warmth as she bid farewell to Valree and Jetto. She wrapped them both in tight embraces. As they parted, Beka clasped Jetto's hand firmly, a silent vow of unwavering support passing between them. Seneca, too, joined in the gesture, her well-wishes for their journey spoken with sincerity.

"Don't be a stranger," Seneca said, her voice filled with genuine affection.

"Don't be afraid to reach us if you need to," Beka added, her tone reassuring.

Hunter shook both Valree and Jetto's hands, his respect evident in the gesture. "It was an honor to fight by your sides."

"You too, Sergeant," Jetto replied, using Hunter's old status with a hint of nostalgia.

"You really have to go?" Omega asked, her eyes wide with disappointment.

Valree crouched down to Omega's level. "I do, but this isn't permanent, my friend. Our paths will meet up again," she assured with a comforting smile.

"See you around, kid," Jetto said, giving a finger salute to Omega as they began their departure.

As Valree and Jetto disappeared from view, their spirits uplifted.

Now it was just Seneca and Beka. "I'm proud of the person and Jedi you've become," Beka said, looking at her former apprentice.

"I know," Seneca replied softly.

"I mean it, Seneca. I watched you grow from a youngling to the person you are today. You defined what it means to be a Jedi knight when all else was against you. For that, I couldn't be prouder."

Seneca smiled and hugged her old master tightly, gratitude shining in her eyes. "You were always the best Master, and now you deserve to be happy," she said, gesturing towards Hunter and Omega.

"Where will you go?" Beka asked, curiosity tinged with a hint of sadness.

"I still have to help people with Jazzori, but you, though, have to help these kids know how to use their gifts right," Seneca replied with a warm smile.

"Seneca, if I may, I'd like to join you for a bit," Tech interjected, his voice filled with determination.

"We can discuss details on the way," Seneca replied, returning his smile as she put a comforting arm around Tech's shoulders, ready to embark on their next journey together.

Beka walked over to Hunter and intertwined her fingers with his. "What's next?" he asked, his gaze searching hers for guidance.

"We'll have to find out," Beka said with a determined smile, feeling Hunter's reassuring presence beside her. Omega approached and hugged Beka's waist, a silent reminder of the family they had become.

That night, Beka stood under the spotlight, a sense of nostalgia mingling with excitement as she prepared for her final performance as Miss Ribbon Singer.

"Good evening, everyone. I will be retiring as Miss Ribbon Singer; this will be my very last performance," Beka announced, her voice steady with emotion.

Her old performing group joined her on stage minus Liana and Gil, their presence a reminder of the memories she had shared. Beka sang and danced with passion, pouring her heart into every step and note. As the song reached its end, she approached Hunter, extending her hand to him and guiding him to the dance floor. With a flourish, Beka removed her mask, revealing her true self to the audience as she sang directly to Hunter. With a playful toss, she passed the mask to Lyana, a symbolic gesture of passing the torch.

At the end of the performance, Hunter smiled warmly, his eyes reflecting admiration. "So, Miss Ribbon Singer is retired?"

"Miss Ribbon is, but Beka will still perform here on Pabu and only here with you and Omega," Beka replied, her smile radiant with love.

Hunter's smile widened as he pulled Beka close, their lips meeting in a tender kiss, sealing their shared future filled with music, love, and companionship.

Time passed, and with each passing moment, new adventures unfolded everyone. Beka found fulfillment in her role as a teacher for the children of Pabu, passing on her wisdom and guidance to the next generation. Despite her retirement as Miss Ribbon Singer, she continued to grace the stage on special occasions, her performances a source of joy and inspiration for the community. Echo and Rex remained steadfast in their mission to save clones, their dedication unwavering as they tirelessly worked to ensure the safety and freedom of their brethren. Valree forged her own path as the leader of a bounty hunter guild, using her skills to protect the weak and bring justice to the galaxy's darkest corners. Her guild became one of the most recognized in the galaxy. Seneca, Tech, and Jazzori stood by Echo and Rex's side, their partnership evolving as they continued to expand and improve their transportation system, providing vital support to their allies in their ongoing fight against oppression. Jetto joined forces with Bail Organa, lending his voice to the growing rebellion against the Empire, as a trusted ally and advocate. Gruno, ever the loyal friend, found his calling as the manager of the Ribbon Singers, using his talents to ensure the success and prosperity of the group. With his guidance, the Ribbon Singers continued to captivate audiences far and wide. And Echo and Rex, they continued their aid with clones that rebelled against the empire. Crosshair and Wrecker found solace and purpose in their newfound freedom, spending their days helping around the island and enjoying its peacefulness.

One night, under the starlit sky, Hunter and Beka found themselves alone on the beach, the gentle sound of the waves lapping at the shore providing the perfect backdrop for what was to come. As Beka gazed out at the horizon, lost in thought, Hunter seized the moment.

When Beka wasn't looking, Hunter dropped to one knee, a nervous but determined expression on his face. "Rebekath, will you..." he began, his voice catching with emotion.

Before he could finish, Beka turned to him, her eyes filled with anticipation. Without a word, she leaned in and kissed him passionately, their lips meeting in a moment of pure bliss. Lost in the intensity of their embrace, they tumbled together onto the soft sand, their laughter mingling with the sound of the crashing waves.

Breathless and overwhelmed with emotion, Beka pulled back slightly, her eyes locking with Hunter's. "Yes," she whispered, a radiant smile illuminating her face.

In the distance, they could hear the sound of laughter and cheering, their teammates and friends rejoicing in the love shared between them. As they lay intertwined on the beach, surrounded by the warmth of their love and the support of their loved ones, Hunter and Beka knew that their journey together was only just beginning.

The day of Hunter and Beka's wedding dawned bright and clear, filled with anticipation and joy. As Hunter stood at the altar, his breath caught in his throat as he watched his bride-to-be make her entrance, radiant in a gown that took his breath away. Beka's heart swelled with happiness as she walked down the aisle, her eyes locked on Hunter's. The love and adoration reflected in his eyes filled her with a sense of belonging she had never known before.

Shep officiated the ceremony, the couple exchanged vows that spoke of a lifetime of love and devotion. Hunter and Beka stood facing each other, their hearts beating in rhythm with the gentle lapping of the waves against the shore.

"Hunter," Beka began, her voice steady yet filled with emotion, "from the moment we met, I knew you were someone special. You showed me what it means to be part of a family, to stand together in the face of adversity and emerge stronger than before. Through every trial and triumph, you've been my greatest ally. Today, I stand before you, ready to embark on this next chapter of our journey together. I vow to stand by your side, to support you, and to love you unconditionally, for all the days of my life. Our journey has only just begun, but with you and Omega by my side, I know that together, we can conquer anything." Beka smiled looking at Omega as she gave a thumbs up.

Hunter's eyes glistened as he took Beka's hand in his own, his voice filled with a quiet strength as he spoke. "Beka," he began, his words carrying the weight of a lifetime devotion, "from the moment you were assigned to my squad, I knew my life would never be the same. Through every battle, every triumph, and every hardship, you stood by my side, a beacon of strength and unwavering support. Together, we've faced challenges that would have broken others, but we emerged stronger, united as a family. Today, I stand before you, ready to embark on the greatest adventure of all—building a life together filled with love, laughter, and endless possibilities. I vow to cherish you, to support you, and to love you with every fiber of my being, for as long as we both shall live."

And with a joyful declaration of "I now pronounce you man and wife!" Shep announced. Hunter and Beka sealed their union with a tender kiss, surrounded by the cheers and applause of their loved ones.

Despite arriving after the ceremony, Rex and Echo made their presence known with warm smiles and heartfelt congratulations as they approached the newlyweds. Beka's joy knew no bounds as she enveloped them both in a tight embrace, feeling grateful for their unwavering support and friendship.

"Rex, Echo, I'm so glad you could make it," Beka exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with happiness.

"We wouldn't miss it for the world," Rex replied, returning her embrace with equal enthusiasm. "You both look absolutely radiant."

Echo nodded in agreement, a proud grin spreading across his face. "About time you two tied the knot."

Beka beamed at the compliment, feeling overwhelmed with gratitude for their presence on this special day. "Thank you both so much," she said, squeezing their hands affectionately.

Sprig bustled with excitement, ensuring every detail of Hunter and Beka's wedding was perfect. During the ceremony, he emitted cheerful beeps and whistles.

As Phee and Tech stood side by side, watching the tender exchange of vows between Hunter and Beka, a silent understanding passed between them. Phee's heart fluttered with affection as she stole a glance at Tech, her brown eyes twinkling with warmth and admiration.

Tech, ever the stoic one, felt a rush of emotion swell within him as he met Phee's gaze. "Beautiful ceremony," he remarked softly, his voice barely above a whisper.

Phee smiled, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush. "Yes, it truly was," she agreed, her gaze lingering on Tech's face. Their shared moment was interrupted by a playful nudge from Wrecker, who had noticed the subtle exchange between them. "Hey, brown eyes," he called out with a grin, earning a chuckle from the others nearby.

Phee and Tech found themselves drawn to each other, their steps mirroring the gentle rhythm of their burgeoning romance. With a shy smile and a gentle touch, they finally acknowledged the feelings that had been growing between them.

As the members of the Bad Batch and Beka's team gathered around to celebrate the newlyweds, the air was filled with laughter, love, and the promise of a future filled with endless possibilities. Echo clapped Hunter on the back, a proud grin on his face as he offered his congratulations. "You did good, brother," he said, his voice filled with genuine warmth.

Rex stood beside them, a knowing smile playing on his lips as he observed the scene before him. "Looks like we've got some new recruits for the married life," he quipped, earning a chuckle from the others.

Valree and Jetto exchanged knowing glances. "Here's to love and adventure," Valree declared, raising her glass in a toast.

"To happiness." Jetto said clanking his glass with Valree's.

As Seneca, Biala, and Jazzori stood side by side, their eyes lingering on the newlyweds, a sense of happiness washed over them. Seneca's smile was radiant as she held Biala close to her side, her heart overflowing with joy for her friend. "She's finally happy," Seneca remarked, her voice filled with warmth and affection as she glanced at Beka.

Jazzori nodded in agreement, her own smile mirroring Seneca's. "Absolutely," she agreed softly, her gaze drifting back to the newlyweds with a sense of contentment.

Gruno, Wrecker, and Crosshair stood nearby. Wrecker's booming laughter filled the air as he clapped Hunter on the back, his enthusiasm contagious as he offered his heartfelt congratulations to the newlyweds. "You did it, buddy!" he exclaimed, a grin spreading across his face.

Crosshair, ever the stoic one, watched the festivities with a quiet sense of satisfaction, his sharp eyes taking in every detail. Though his words were few, his presence spoke volumes, a silent affirmation of the bond that united them all.

As the evening wore on and the stars glittered overhead, Hunter and Beka found themselves enveloped in a warm embrace, surrounded by a family that extended far beyond bloodlines or battlefields. Omega rushed over to them, her eyes shining with excitement and love as she wrapped her arms around both of them in a tight hug.

As Hunter, Omega, and Beka stood on the cliffside, enjoying a moment of tranquility, Tech, Wrecker, and Crosshair observed them from below on the beach while working on their fishing gear.

"Glad you could visit," Wrecker remarked, glancing over at Tech with a grin.

Tech nodded, a smile playing on his lips. "Thought I could use some time for myself, plus do a few tweaks to Crosshair's hand," he replied, casting a glance towards Crosshair, who chuckled in response.

All three of them turned their attention upward, their curiosity piqued by the animated exchange happening on the cliffside.

Hunter's face lit up with delight as he lifted Beka into his arms, spinning her around in a joyful embrace. Meanwhile, Tech, Wrecker, and Crosshair exchanged curious glances, wondering about the commotion up above.

"What's Beka saying?" Wrecker asked, his brows furrowing in confusion as he tried to make out their conversation from the distance.

"I think she said..." Tech started, his words trailing off as he strained to hear Beka's voice above the sound of the wind.

Omega's excited voice rang out. "There's going to be a baby!" she exclaimed, her joy echoing across the cliffs.

"She's pregnant," Tech responded, his voice carrying a mix of surprise and realization.

Wrecker's eyes widened in astonishment, while Crosshair's expression remained stoic, though a hint of intrigue flickered in his gaze.

"Pregnant?" Wrecker exclaimed, his voice booming like an echo.

Crosshair simply nodded, a small smirk tugging at the corner of his lips as he watched the scene unfold below.

The three friends exchanged astonished looks, their expressions reflecting a mixture of excitement and disbelief at the unexpected news. As they watched Hunter and Beka celebrate their growing family, they knew that their lives were about to change in the most wonderful way possible.

When the baby was born, Beka and Hunter named him "Jafan," Beka announced with a smile.

Hunter leaned down to kiss Beka's forehead, his eyes brimming with love and pride as he gazed at his newborn son. With gentle hands, he cradled Jafan in his arms, marveling at the tiny bundle of joy that had entered their lives, "Jafan Hardt." Hunter smiled.

The baby, oblivious to the significance of the moment, gazed up at his father with wide eyes, a tiny smile gracing his lips in response to Hunter's tender touch.

The members of the Bad Batch gathered around, their faces filled with happiness and excitement as they welcomed the newest addition to their family. Echo clapped Hunter on the back, a grin spreading across his face, while Wrecker let out a booming laugh of joy while Omega was telling them to be quiet.

Beka, exhausted but radiant with happiness, watched as Hunter held their son, her heart overflowing with love for her little family. In that moment, surrounded by love and surrounded by their friends, she knew that their journey together started its next chapter.

A few years went by, filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures. Hunter took on the role of mentor, teaching young Jafan to trust his senses as he began to exhibit signs of being Force-sensitive. Meanwhile, Beka continued to train Lon, Isaac, Omega and Jafan, passing on her knowledge and wisdom to them.

One day, as the sun dipped low on the horizon, Hunter and Beka stood together on the balcony, watching as Omega, Jafan, Batcher, and Wrecker playing joyfully on the beach below.

"Thank you," Hunter said, turning to Beka with a soft smile.

Beka raised an eyebrow, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Thank you? For what?" she chuckled, genuinely puzzled.

"For giving me a great life," Hunter replied, his gaze filled with love and gratitude.

Beka's heart swelled with warmth as she looked into Hunter's eyes. "You're welcome," she said, her voice filled with tenderness.

The two shared a tender kiss, as they stood together, hand in hand, they knew that no matter what the future held, they would face it together, united in their love and their commitment to each other.

[powertaco]

Was remembering The Bees getting engaged in a fight in Getting it Right. Brain jumped to The Bees being extra dramatic and getting married in the middle of a fight.

The Bees go looking for someone to marry them in the fight. Winter and Goodwitch say no. Blake doesn’t want Kali to marry them. Eventually they get Robyn to do it for them.

Just random thoughts. Didn’t feel like it fit well as a comment so sent it here instead.

Robyn winced as the ceiling shifted as another blast rocked the area.

She wasn't going to admit she was sort of pissed she was the third option. Goodwitch she could maybe understand, but Winter? Her swords were literally named Buzz and Kill so why they went to her she didn't know.

"Ok, great you both want this. Not the best time, but sure," Robyn snarked as she removed her hand from the pair across from her, the green glow fading as she did.

"I'm glad you want to get married, but you both know this doesn't really count, right?"

"What do you mean? Can't you just lie and pretend?" Yang asked aghast.

"You're way too uptight. You should have asked my new boytoy. He'd have done it without messing around with you."

"Uncle Qrow? Also gross," Yang asked with a wince.

"Considering we walked in on you both about forty seven times while you were staying with us, visiting us at work, at your sister's girlfriends house, in the park, in the-"

"Ok!" Blake squeaked out as she winced at the unfortunately accurate recounting of their 'escapades'.

"I'm not apologizing. Blake just makes me lose my shit, and want to ravage her any chance I get," Yang remarked with a smirk. "Especially if it'll screw with Weiss."

"I'll let her know you said that. I'm sure she and the other two can find a way to pay you back," Qrow smirked as he transformed back from his corvid form.

"You got rings?" Robyn cut back in.

"Well...not exactly? I can find a grenade pin?" Yang offered awkwardly as Robyn sighed, and handed over a few lien to Qrow before the building was rocked again.

"Right, not much time," Qrow agreed as he pulled out a set of ring boxes. One purple, and one the blonde of Yang's hair.

"Figured not so I've been carrying around a set for you two," Qrow explained as Blake shot him a thankful smile.

"You got a set for Ruby and..." Yang's question was cut off as Qrow raised an eye at her in expectation.

"Weiss, right," Yang agreed knowing her teammate and friend likely had everything planned for her eventual wedding to her two girlfriends down to the curtains in their eventual home already.

"Let's get this done so we can get back to the whole battle for our lives thing," Yang remarks as Blake smiled winningly at her.

"Do you Yang Xiao Long-" Robyn began only for the ceiling to give way as Nora came crashing through followed by Sun.

"I told you I sensed it!" Nora remarked as she and Sun exchanged a high-five.

"Nora?" Blake asked wondering why she couldn't just get married in peace...then again.

"Sec just sending a message to Ren so he knows I'm alright," Nora replied as Blake sighed in relief. She could deal with that.

"And I'm letting Weiss know you tried to pull this without her," Sun gleefully informed a paling Blake as he hit the button to send the message.

"Can you just skip to the end part? I think we're on a timer before the death do us part vows," Yang joked.

"Do you Yang-"

"XIAO LONG! YOU ABSOLUTELY HAD BETTER NOT BE TRYING TO GET MARRIED WITHOUT USING ANY OF THE PLANS I SET UP FOR YOU!" Weiss screeched in the distance as her Nevermore summon bore a trio of figures swiftly to their location.

Robyn just sighed. "You want to be married to that one and all that jazz?" Robyn asked as she hooked a thumb to Yang.

"I do."

"Great. Same question to you," Robyn asked Yang who nodded and took the ring Qrow had given her and lovingly placed it on Blake's hand.

"Not a moment too soon," Robyn remarked as Weiss dismounted her summon and left her partners to stalk over to the group. Her anger was nearly palpable.

"Already hitched, Ice Queen," Yang teased before Weiss rather smugly gestured to Robyn who removed her scroll from her pocket to check it.

"You had my license to wed revoked? Retroactively?" Robyn asked, a mix of impressed and incredulous.

"She did," Ruby admitted with a smirk as she and Weiss's shared girlfriend came over to stand near them.

"Now let's talk about your wedding plans, and how you're actually going to get married..."

[avalonmoonshinesstuff]

I just realised Something about a portion of fandom I don't really engage with all that much. Because I don't want to, btw.

In all other shows, movies, books, etc, every single bad person is at least somewhat 'ugly' according to the narrative. The 'problematic' characters rarely get acknowledged because there are so many good looking characters who are good themselves (I remember Annabelle from the first book of Percy Jackson, I think, and there were more ofc).

However, Rowling's main idea about appearances was that it was an illusion. Every single good looking character is either reprehensible or ends up dying (Cedric) in the same book they were introduced*. The story wants to be relatable to how every teen feels, and no matter what, we all have insecurities.

However, they're just teens, and on top of that, at least one or more of our main teens have done something terrible or badwrong (Hermione with skeeter and Marietta). So, they aren't exceptionally beautiful and neither are they exceptionally good. Even the side characters who are popular come across as jerks to some of their family members, making their sibling cry.

This creates a problem for the people who don't have a sense of self yet, or are so scarred they can only look at life through black & white lenses.

The Halo effect playing greatly onto the above, we're presented with another set of teens, two of whom are described as extremely sought after by the opposite sex, one of whom is popular, and the final one who has endeared himself by showing ugly Snivellus his place (via map and the Verbal Sparring). They all, by the end of this introduction, understand that Snivellus is badwrong and doesn't deserve anything good.

'It's clear he's the villain, and has been since forever, see, these people agree with me and they're the Protagonist's parents.' Whether this is believed because of the Halo effect or taking Harry's perspective to mean a God pov, I can't tell. The point being, they are even more convinced.

They want an escape from how difficult it is to sort out their feeling about these people the author keeps throwing at their face so why not attach to the characters who are dead or strongly attached to the protagonist (so they can never be badwrong in later books). A safety blanket of sorts, if you will. And in doing so, they completely ignore the nuances of the scenes presented in the last book. Because they are attached, they'd rather call badwrong Snivellus' love impure than explore what the montage of all his memories implied. That beauty is skin deep.

The thing about people who like such black and white scenarios and people is: they will always fall prey to the Halo Effect. And it's extremely painful to be disillusioned about your favourites. So they may never get disillusioned.

All this to say, sometimes I wonder why that part of the fandom is like 'that'. And it's just that this is the safety net in this series, or this is just how vanilla people outside of fandom coming in can take.

And that's fine (coz I'm crazy for the marauders era as well, just with a slightly wider taste pallet).

TL Dr: The antis are attracted to wholesome ships and since Rowling made it so difficult to find such ships until much later where you are emotionally connected with each character, the antis attached to a bunch of (mostly) dead people who, by association to the Hero of the story, being pretty, popular, and clear on their behaviour with the badwrong confusing character, are all good. They were desperately looking for the safety net in the books and found some. Also, since antis are the way they are, maybe they believe the fictional character being dead means people would not criticise their wholesome ship? Idk.

A/N:

*The only properly handsome man - Bill - barely gets mentioned, marries a beautiful woman, and imo the only reason he doesn't die is because he didn't revel in his handsomeness or popularity (him liking Snape in school is so cute + that disqualifies him from being popular with the antis since he likes the badwrong character). Also, he was literally scarred on his once handsome face to show that his wife actually loved him and didn't just choose him to have beautiful babies. Her being a veela and owning her Frenchness were already flaws (in the narrative's opinion) so all she needed was a scarred husband. Now, they both don't have to die 🤣.

[hinatastinygiant]

9 | A New Contract

Pairing: Aizawa x Fem!Reader

A Game of Charades Masterlist

With determination in your eyes, you turn to Aizawa and say, "We should go back in there and talk to those CEOs, tell them how we actually feel without getting pushed around like we were."

"Y/N, that's a bad idea," he shakes his head. "They're not going to listen to a single word we say."

"So what? It's not like they can treat us any worse than they already are," you shrug. "I say let's give it a shot."

Aizawa looks skeptical but seems to consider your suggestion. "You actually think this will work?" he asks, his voice tinged with doubt.

"We won't know until we try," you answer, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "We deserve to have at least a say in what happens next. Let's just try to negotiate with them and explain our position."

Aizawa hesitates for a moment before nodding in agreement. "Alright, fine. Let's do it," he says.

Together, you and Aizawa walk back inside the building and into the meeting room. However, what greets you there is something like out of a horror story. On the opposite side you see your agent, Ann, bent over the meeting room table while the CEO of Aizawa's firm is ramming into her back side. Immediately, Aizawa slaps a hand over your eyes.

"Oh my god, shit!" you hear Ann shout, followed by the sounds of shuffling. Once the two of them are finally decent, Aizawa lets you see again.

"Ann, I can't believe you were just..." you begin, before trailing off as you see the older man zip up his pants out of the corner of your eye. "Why?!"

"God dammit, Y/N, what the hell?!" she grumbles as she grabs onto your arm. "Let's go."

"Hold on," Aizawa stops her before she can even tug you out. "We're not going anywhere yet. Looks like the two of you could have a big scandal on your hands if word got out."

"So could you and Y/N... if word got out," Ann smiles cheesily back at him.

"Actually, I don't think so," you interrupt, pulling your arm out of her grasp. "Shota and I actually like each other, so what's the scandal in finding that out? You, on the other hand," you hum as you look over at the CEO, "could have a big problem. Mr. Takahashi, aren't you married? I could have sworn I saw an article about your wife adding healthy food options at your son's high school."

"What do you want?" he then sighs, sitting down in his chair.

"We want the engagement called off," Aziawa states firmly, not backing down this time.

Ann then intervenes, knowing the consequences of this decision could be bad for both agencies. "We can't do that. The companies-"

But the CEO cuts her off, surprising you both. "That's fine," he tells Aizawa, waving his hand dismissively. He then instructs Ann to call his secretary.

The secretary quickly enters the room, and Mr. Takahashi requests her to type up a contract. The document states that on the fifteenth, the engagement between you and Aizawa will be officially called off, and you will no longer be pressured into continuing the charade beyond the agreed-upon time frame.

Aizawa nods, accepting the terms of the agreement. He's visibly relieved, knowing that the burden of the unwanted marriage is finally being lifted.

With the document ready, the CEO extends his hand for a handshake. You and Aizawa exchange a glance, and one at a time, you both firmly shake his hand, sealing the deal.

As the secretary runs off to print the agreement, you can't help but feel a sense of relief and triumph. The weight that had been on your shoulders is finally lifted, and you know that you made the right decision.

Just as the agreement is printed and everyone signs it, you witness Ann leaning in to kiss the CEO. You can't help but make a face of disgust, feeling the need to distance yourself from her actions.

"You know what? I think I'm getting a new agent," you declare firmly, taking Aizawa's hand in yours.

Mr. Takahashi seems surprised, but he doesn't object. Honestly, he probably doesn't care in the least about Ann, but she'll just have to figure that out herself. 

With that, you leave the room. Aizawa walks alongside you, and together, you both step out of the agency, ready to face whatever comes next, now knowing that you're finally free from the charade that had complicated your lives for far too long.

As you both step outside, the fresh air feels invigorating. The sense of freedom fills you with a renewed energy, and you can't help but smile as you walk together.

But just as you thought the day couldn't get any better, Aizawa suddenly pulls you close and kisses you passionately. His lips meet yours with an intensity you hadn't expected, and for a moment, time seems to stand still.

He presses you up against the side of the car, his hands firmly holding your waist. The kiss is filled with all the emotions you both have kept bottled up for so long—the relief, the pent-up frustration, and the newfound understanding that your feelings for each other are not just part of a charade.

His lips are soft yet firm, and the heat of the moment sends shivers down your spine. Your arms instinctively wrap around his neck, pulling him closer as you reciprocate the passionate kiss.

The world around you fades away, and it's just the two of you, lost in the moment. His fingers tangle in your hair, and your heart races with a mix of excitement and desire. It's a kiss that speaks of so much more than just the charade you had been playing.

Eventually, you both pull away, breathless and flushed. His eyes search yours, filled with a mix of emotions, and you can see the affection and sincerity in his gaze.

"I'm glad we called it off," Aizawa whispers, his voice soft and filled with honesty.

"Me too," you reply, a smile tugging at the corners of your lips.

You then lean in to kiss him once more, a tender and affectionate gesture that seals the beginning of a new chapter in your lives—a chapter free from pretense and full of genuine love and affection.

A Game of Charades Masterlist

taglist: @channiesprincess @romaka344 @mysideeffectsofyou

[sylvies-chen]

I agree about chenford getting together but do we really need to wait until the season finale they have 23 episodes I'm hoping it's more like the mid season finale when Rosalind kidnaps Tim and forces them to reveal their feelings ala clois I see what they're setting up but I don't think it can sustain 22 episodes to me from a storytelling pov also I don't think the show is getting past a sixth season, a seventh one if they're very lucky and I need a full season of them in love and then getting engaged/married. I need so see a wedding and by some miracle maybe a few episodes when they're actually married. There's also always the fear of one of the actors leaving like we're one Chicago people WE KNOW the turnover on those shows is genuinely insane but it's a lot of other shows too. This last year so many shows lost half of their ships and it's not like this show didn't have two of its main characters leave already.

I actually think letting them take the full 23 episodes of the season before getting together in the finale isn’t so bad. If it were Tim and Lucy’s show then yes, it would probably happen by the mid season finale or even sooner, but there are other characters to consider who have storylines coming up. What with Nyla’s baby on the way, Lopez needing some detective storylines, Nolan and Bailey being a couple, Wesley becoming a prosecutor, and Nolan’s first rookie coming into the show (yay to Lisseth Chavez!!) there’s going to be A LOT going on this season. That’s not even including the stuff with Rosalind, and Lucy and Tim’s individuals storylines (i.e. we know Genny is coming back for an episode this season). Alexi himself even said there would be a delay in the consequences of Chenford’s kiss, because there’s just a lot going on and so they take a beat to focus on other things too while Ashley comes into play and the kiss really starts doing damage.

And y’know what? I’m kind of here for that! I like the idea of their relationship taking the full season. As long as we’ve been waiting for this as fans, this is still a very new thing to Lucy and Tim. They have a lot of things to deal with first: her trauma from Rosalind, her relationship with Chris, his with Ashley, accepting the fact that they almost did something that morally would not have made sense for either of them, and their true feelings. They were going to give way to this impulse they had, but I think they really need to recognize the permanence of these feelings they have for each other. Once they see that it’s real love and it’s something that’s not going away, and once they’re both single, THAT’S when they are going to get together. And that might take a while given everything they have to sift through emotionally and logistically, but it’s still going to happen. And damn if I don’t love a good angsty slowburn!!

So I can’t really say anything about the number of seasons they’ll have. I honestly have no idea, but I’m assuming they could do at least 2 more if they’re doing well enough with the network now to merit a spinoff. Whether they will, I don’t know. But I think they’ll milk this show for all it’s worth and I also think if they’re willing to write in Alyssa Diaz’s AND Mekia Cox’s pregnancies just to keep them on, it fosters a positive environment which means the actors probably won’t be leaving anytime soon. Titus only left because he wasn’t comfortable, morally, playing a cop anymore after the BLM movement reached its peak. That’s an extenuating circumstance, and a unicorn in this show’s otherwise relatively stable cast. Melissa and Eric also ADORE the fans, I really don’t see them leaving anytime soon. They’re Chenford nuts like us, they would want to do it justice. I know One Chicago has left me and so many others in the fandom heartbroken from completely unexpected character/actor exits, but this show has shown itself to be very different from OC so I’m going to try and keep the two separate.

[whencallstheheart]

What is going on with this show?!

TPTB should be reuniting the fanbase instead of dividing it again. It's season 8 all over again.

They chose Lucas for Elizabeth because he was supposed to bring longevity to this show. To keep moving the show forward not backwards.

Now it's like they realize Nathan should've been the choice? And, all the WCTH fans are suppose to forget what happened the last two seasons.

Why treat my favorite character Nathan like dirt the last 2 seasons or get other fans invested in a Lucabeth romance and wedding. Makes no sense!

I honestly don't want Elizabeth with Nathan after that 'I only saw Jack in you' line in Season 8 finale. They changed Elizabeth character to fit Lucas.

If they do a Nathan/Elizabeth flip then Elizabeth has to do some major apologizing and redeem herself.

What are these writers/showrunner are thinking?!

That's the part I don't get. They chose Lucas for a specific reason. Many of us didn't understand but that's fine. Give them the romance and the wedding and all the cuteness that their fans expected. They're not getting any of that though. They have some moments but this season has been really doing Lucas and Elizabeth a disservice. It's like the writers don't want them to be happy. I get you have to throw in some obstacles but this is Elizabeth's second wedding and there was already so much build up. Get to it already.

I still think Nathan and Elizabeth make way more sense and have much better chemistry but I can't see them switching back. I would be into it but I agree that Nathan deserves better. He deserves someone who will choose him and only him. The fact that we're even talking about switching being a possibility is shocking and shouldn't be happening. That's what baffles me. Why as a fandom are we back to trying to figure out who Elizabeth will pick when she's literally ENGAGED? It's wild.

And if next episode's plot of her being scared about Nathan is ultimately pointless (which is likely the case), why is it happening? We've already had her scared about Nathan before and she dealt with that when making her choice. Dredging it up again right now doesn't make sense. If she needs to still deal with old feelings about Jack then she needs to do that with the man she is marrying or with someone else who wasn't once a potential love interest, you know? Talk to Bill. Talk to Rosemary. Leave Nathan alone.

[taekookibb]

"And okay, so, I've had this other theory. What if, and this is a big WHAT IF, Tae decided to take one for the team. Maybe all the guys in BTS are wanting to finally put out there into the world their relationships with significant others. WHAT IF they would like to start being more upfront with who they are dating, engaged to, marrying, etc. Maybe Tae is the one who has the most to gain from being the first one to be "out" as far as having a "relationship". Maybe he's the guinea pig in this all because the relationship is fake, and if this all backfires, he will easily bounce back because of his popularity and his inability to be as affected by backlash. Maybe the company and the other members want to see how Tae fares in his success if we all believe he's in a relationship."

I had this theory, too! I thought maybe they're testing the waters. Since they're getting old now. They want to be more public with their relationships and ease fans eventually once they decide to get married. They're all pushing 30 except for Jin and Yoongi. It's only natural to want to experience a relationship that won't feel like they're hiding it. And I agree that if there's anyone who can be the guinea pig, it would be tae. He has the most loyal fanbase. If this is true, they have succeeded. After that video surfaced, Tae may have lost some fans, but the tremendous support overshadows that.

I just don't get the idea of them being together. Maybe that's Tae's cup of tea? Maybe we just read him all along, and what he really wants is an easy girl instead of a classy one. It's still absurd for me how he would allow his gf to party like that knowing how jealous he gets. Oh well, I guess boys will still be boys at the end of the day.

Whatever hell this is, I hope it'll be over before his album comes out.

Ah! That's so crazy that you were thinking the same thing too, anon! I really thought the theory could be really out there, but it also seemed to be something that could make sense. Or it could just be a bi-product of the PR relationship thing with Ms. Jen. Which, yes, I do think it's all just PR.

And no, I don't think Ms. Jen is Taehyung's cup of tea AT ALL because I truly believe Jungkook is Tae's cup of tea, lol! But I would not at all say that Ms. Jen isn't classy. She's a beautiful, young, talented woman and she seems really fun and easygoing. So the partying thing seems like a non-issue to me.

Honestly, even if Taennie WERE real, I think a healthy jealousy is okay to have between couples. It keeps things interesting and fun. But we can't assume to know what goes on in someone else's relationship. We don't know the conversations and the dynamics because we're not the ones in that relationship.

But I agree about wanting to see this whole thing end soon. At least by the end of the year. I miss Taekook moments, and I just want to see more of those two spending time together. I love Tae, though, so I'll still be rooting for him in all his endeavors.

Thank you for the ask!

[lonelyvomit]

Abby I got a situation that has weighed on me for a bit and need an outside opinion on it. I apologize in advance this is long.

My SO and I were raised in two different religions (both Abrahamic so similar enough teachings) and we're both at a point of being "ok god may exist but religion fucking sucks"

Their family is Catholic and pretty devout. It's been a long road to get their family to accept they didn't want to go to services or all the stuff that goes along with it anymore.

While my parents always made it clear they expected myself and my brother to stay in the religion we were raised in, we never went to services or anything.

My problem is Christmas.

When we were dating, engaged, and newly married we talked over and over about how we would handle it, I made it clear I was uncomfortable with celebrating it as it's a Christian holiday.

They always told me they understood that. We talked about it so much and we agreed on a compromise, that we wouldn't do the gift exchange but we would spend the day with his family.

Which we did for a couple years, although every year my SO started saying how they wanted to celebrate it, that spending time with their family wasn't enough, they wanted to do the gifts too.

They tried to argue that we celebrated my family's religious holidays, but there's not a Christmas equivalent, there is fasting (which they have never participated in and I have never asked them to, only that they don't eat or drink if we are around my family that is fasting) and then a celebration that usually just means a nice dinner and maybe something fun like a movie or mini golf.

2019 my MiL's mother passed and my SO convinced me (I have to admit I didn't fight it that much) to gift give that year to make it easier for her.

We've been doing it ever since.

I hate it, but now I'm staring down our 4th year dropping several hundred dollars on gifts.

My SO knows it makes me uncomfortable, but they're family will also give them so much crap if we stop at this point.

Sorry this turned into a rant it just gets to me.

right so, I'm gonna start this off by saying my family always celebrated christian holidays, including christmas, but we never had any religious motives for it and I pretty much grew up thinking every holiday was just an excuse to have some time off and be with family or friends. my point here is that I'm very bad at telling which part of the traditions are strongly religion motivated or exclusively christian, because to me it was all just about celebrating winter and family. so if my ignorance with that shines through, I apologize in advance.

I do absolutely understand your discomfort with christmas. I think agreeing to go over to your so's family for it and being present is enough to ask from you when the whole holiday is something you're actively uncomfortable celebrating, and expecting you to partake in specific traditions like gift giving is inconsiderate.

I think the main question here is where your so stands on the issues, whether 1. they'd wish to actively celebrate christmas with their family, including the gifts, and 2. if they feel like they're made to take part in your religious holidays, even if you don't mean to force it on them. it doesn't need to be a christmas equivalent either - if they feel like they're taking part in your religious holiday at another time of the year, it would still make sense they'd like you to take part in one of theirs, even if it was literally 6 months apart. also, you might not feel like the nice dinner & movie or mini golf celebration is a big deal or strongly religion based since the activities aren't that religion focused, but it might still feel like that to your so, since the reason for the celebration to take place to begin with is still religious - and in the exact same way your so might not understand why the gift giving is such a big matter to you, since giving someone a gift isn't objectively a christian act, any more than playing mini golf is. what I'm trying to say is you both have holidays that include non-religious activities, and it could feel like not that big of a deal to yourselves since it's what you're used to, but because the reason for them to take place at all is still based on each other's religions, it might make the other one feel more uncomfortable than you realize.

if your so agrees that they'd like to stop the gift giving tradition, then you two are more than allowed to inform their family that you're going back to not partaking in that specific tradition anymore. they might give you guys shit for it, but if you two are on the same page about it, you'll be fine, and your so's family will get over it again eventually. but even if you do that, you might still want to have a more extended conversation about what makes your so feel like they're still partaking in your religious holidays. if some holiday/fasting affects your so more than you realize, and/or they do actively wish they could join the gift giving tradition with their family on christmas, you might have to try to find a new compromise that makes you both feel like you're both going along with each other's traditions in equal amounts - after all, completely ignoring one's so's religion is practically impossible.

I hope you can figure this out, preferably in a way that lets you both partake in each others holidays as little as possible, but sometimes it's also worth considering if you could bring yourself to partake in something your so really wants to do, if they also agree to join a celebration that they don't necessarily enjoy but makes you happy, even if on a different holiday.

[dxmedstudent]

I don't see a Ring...

There's something just... outdated about the way we traditionally think about commitment in relationships. Take the way people use whether someone is wearing a wedding or engagement ring as a sign for whether they can approach someone. Firstly, even if someone is 100% single, there's no guarantee that they are interested in dating, would want to date you, or are happy to be approached right now. But also, not every person in a committed relationship is wearing a ring. People shouldn't have to be married or engaged for their relationship to be respected. But equally, women shouldn't have to buy fake engagement or wedding rings to try to avoid harrassment by men who don't respect the word 'no'. There are plenty of people in relationships who aren't engaged or married - perhaps they intend to be, or perhaps they don't see marriage as something necessary for their relationship. and I find it rather insulting because it suggests that until someone has a ring on, they arent' really in a committed relationship and they might as well be 'fair game'. How about we don't assume anyone is single or interested, and we take time to respectfully get to know people a bit before we assume they want us? There's a lot more that can be said about some men assuming that every woman is available and interested- ideally we'd want a lot to change in how people interact with strangers. I know that some peopel (usually men) complain about not being able to talk to women in public. But like... it's not your divine right to go up to everyone and hit on them regardless of whether they are receptive of your interest. Women don't just exist as NPCs in your life story, and they deserve to go about their lives without a constant stream of sexual harrassment from strangers. Likewise the way some people celebrate bachelorette parties as a "last chance to have fun before you marry" - i.e. a "last night of freedom" where strippers or having sex with sex workers (or randoms) is considered fair game - at least, by one party in the relationship. Needless to say, if both parties in the relationship are OK with the above, then it's not a problem. But it's often a problem because no, both parties are NOT OK with a little external sex just before the wedding. It's just... your last night of freedom isn't the night before you get married - it was the night before whenever you decided to commit to exclusively dating your current partner. I'm engaged, but the idea that something 'wouldn't count' right now because we're not hitched would be pretty laughable. So whilst I'm behind celebrating that a good friend is getting married, I don't believe in seeing it as a desperate send off and an end to freedom. Any freedoms you may 'lose' in marriage (like the freedom to sleep with anyone) are things you've agreed to long before then. Maybe it made sense back when people didn't really date, and marriage followed a very brief and chaste courtship - because people's lives really did change after marriage when it meant they moved out of their parents' house, lived with their partner, had sex for the first time, and likely had kids not long after. In those circumstances, the night before your wedding was the end of an era. But now? For most couples? Not much changes. It's also insulting to the marriage the couple are trying to build - the implication being that after you get married, your life is essentially over and you're 'tied' to one person. This is a choice people are making - if they are looking at their wedding with dread, they shouldn't be getting married! Or the notion that God forbid! you only get to sleep with one person! I never got the drama over this. I mean most people really aren't having a ton of sex even when they are single, and if they've been happy with whatever they share with their partner through the relationship, then marriage really doesn't change anything. If you decide to get married, marriage is just signing up to more of what you're already getting. It doesn't change your partner or make them better.

[etheraella]

Lies Between Ties || Part I ||

(Draco Malfoy x Fem!Reader)

Summary : Y/N and Draco caught themselves in an arranged marriage by their parents, they both try and act like a happy married couple infront of their families, when in reality they made an agreement to not cross each other’s space and treat each other as ‘roommates’. What happens when one unknowingly gains feelings?

Warnings : No War/Voldemort!AU, Arranged Marriage, Slowburn, Unrequited Love (?), Angst, Arguing, slight cursing.

Your eyes widen in shock, not believing what the woman you respected all your life had just said. You scoffed in disbelief as your mother puts her welcoming hand on yours in comfort. "Very funny, Mama."

She frowned, holding back a smile. "Y/N, this is not a joke, I think it's for the best if you marry him, Narcissa-"

"I know she's your friend, Mama. But I don't even know him, we've never exchanged a conversation, and it's best if we keep it that way." You got up ready to leave the conversation. Unfortunately, your mother grabbed your wrist softly before you could do so.

"Y/N please, the Malfoys can give you the life I could never give you, and I'm getting older, sooner or later when I'm gone, somebody is going to have and help me look after you. At least with the Malfoys’ I know you'd be in good hands." She confessed with sadness in her voice, the grip on your wrist getting firmer.

"Please don't say that, ma. I would want to get married but not anytime soon. I've only just graduated Hogwarts, and who's going to take care of you?"

"Your stepfather is retiring soon, we'll just be here at home and you can come visit us after you and Draco have settled,"

You squinted the moment Draco's name left your mothers lips. Sure, the two have never said a word to each other, but he was known for his boastful and rich background. Everyone in Hogwarts would've known the Slytherin Prince. Though, that never interest you. He probably never knew who you were anyway.

"I never said I agreed to it." you finally said not meeting her gaze.

"Francis and I have already agreed to the Malfoys, dear. The wedding is to be held in 3 months, please Y/N for the sake of mine, you'll learn to accept Draco and there's no doubt the two of you will be happy together." She smiled kissing your forehead lovingly before getting up to leave.

“but with what certainty?”

the words were in a whisper that were only heard by you.

━━━━ ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ━━━━

The sound of birds chirping and peaceful leaves rustling filled your ears. Memories of the conversation filled your head. Out of everyone in the whole world, why Draco Malfoy? What does he think of this ridiculous arrangement? With less than 2 months, the two of you have never met since you saw him back at Hogwarts, and tonight would be the first time the two of you would meet after the marriage conversation. Just then you heard the sound of footsteps and your mother appeared in the doorway.

"Come inside and get ready, dear."

That night, you sat opposite of Draco for dinner, you daren't lift your gaze to meet his. You knew the moment he entered your living room with a boring expression that he wasn't excited or fond on meeting you, or to even be wed to you. Well, so were you.

"Y/N, why don't you have a walk with Draco by the lake?" your mother says suddenly, smiling brightly between you and Draco.

"Yes, Mama" you say politely returning a fake smile, trying your best to hide your annoyance.

You walk with Draco in silence and you open your mouth every now and then trying to start a conversation. You didn’t realise the difference in your heights until you were side by side, Draco Malfoy was taller and much broader than you remember.

"Malfoy-"

Draco stops, meeting your eyes before averting his gaze to the lake on his left.

"I’m not sure It’s wise to use surnames considering the situation we're in.”

Taken aback, you were surprised he was even suggesting this, the Draco Malfoy in front of you seemed more mature than the Malfoy you knew of in school.

"And what situation do you take this as?"

"- A situation that shouldn't happen in the first place. If you only hadn't agreed to it."

You couldn't believe your ears at his absurd accusation. His voice calm but firm at the same time, looking at you as if you're something a cat dragged in.

"Me? You think I want to marry you?" You gave a short laugh. "Your parents sent the proposal first and you blame this on me? For Godric's sake, I don't even know you nor do I have any feelings for you. I'm only following my mother's desires, Draco Malfoy."

"I can guarantee you, the feeling’s mutual." he said through gritted teeth followed by an awkward silence as two of you continue your walk. You stared at your shoes with each step, trying to think of a sentence that will make him help you cancel the wedding. You couldn't bare marrying someone you don't love, especially someone with a big ego like Draco’s. No, never in a million years.

"Mal- Draco, I didn’t intend to ask you upon this favour, as we both know how ridiculous this arrangement is. Please convince Narcissa and Lucius to call it off. It's not too late, considering you're a man-"

"As much as I would love that, Y/N. I would never want to break my mother's heart, I don't bloody care if you call it off, it's perfectly fine with me. We'll discuss this again after the wedding." He said, rolling his eyes and walking back to the house leaving you alone.

You blink in shock, your eyes following his walking figure, his silver blond hair visible under the moonlight. That bastard! Why would he think it's any better after the wedding? Sighing in disappointment, you slumped on the bench facing the lake, the darkness of the night swallowing you.

━━━━ ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ━━━━

"You are to be MARRIED to Draco?" Jane's eyes widen in shock, she stood up facing you, her pupils searching for yours trying to find mischief. To her prevail, you were dead serious and that got her sitting back on the chair slowly.

"But - I thought you wanted to be a healer-"

"I do, I can be a healer while married. I wouldn't need permission to pursue my dream career, would I?" You sighed, staring at the wand in your hand. Jane has been your best friend ever since the two of you got sorted in the same house back in Hogwarts. You wanted her to be your bridesmaid. Knowing how grand the Malfoy's are, it makes sense how big they want this wedding to be, considering Draco's the only Malfoy heir. You didn't know what to think of it, ever since you were a child, you had always dreamt of how you wanted your wedding to be, you didn't mind how the reception would look, how flowy your dress would be, as long as it's with friends and relatives, and a person you're in love with.

Jane was silent for several seconds. "Oh Y/N...but Draco Malfoy?"

"YES JANE! What other Dracos do you know of?" You roll your eyes in irritation, hating the fact of being reminded of marrying a bloke like him. Jane sighed and looked at you with sympathy,

“But, I’m afraid your mother’s right.. there’s no denying the Malfoys are rich-“

You snorted. “richly arrogant”

The silver band on your ring finger brimmed. The mere thought of you being engaged was still unbelievable, so is the oncoming wedding. Feeling frustrated, you terribly wanted to pull your hair out.

“Jane, I have an idea.. perhaps on the wedding day, you could wear a long veil and take my place instead-“ You randomly suggest.

“Y/N Y/L/N, Are you mad? We both know your absurd schemes are never going to work,” Jane smiled sadly, gripping your hand in hers.

You sighed in disappointment, praying deep down the wedding would be disastrous or a random fire would begin before the vows, yes, it was a childishly dangerous thought but you were willing to escape this arrangement without hurting your mother’s feelings.

━━━━ ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ━━━━

On the wedding day, of course the unfortunate events you hoped for didn’t occur. You weren’t as devastated as you thought you would be when you woke up that morning, wrapping sheets of mattress around yourself. It could be that you were finally accepting your fate, you groaned at the thought. In 24 hours, you would be ‘Mrs. Malfoy’, how grand.

The dress that was altered for you was beautiful, you couldn’t take your eyes off it. The white material felt light and gorgeous under your fingertips. Jane had repeatedly told you how breath-taking you looked, you didn’t deny that.

Before the event began, Narcissa had come in your dressing room with an amber green leathered box. Seeing your future mother in-law made you awfully nervous, even if you weren’t whole heartedly willing to marry her son. You quickly pushed the guilt away when she cupped your hands in hers.

“Oh Merlin, you look lovely Y/N,” She said with a smile before opening the box, revealing a heavenly beautiful bracelet the Malfoy initials carved in golden. You let Narcissa gently put it on you telling you of the Malfoy heirloom’s history. The bracelet was given to wear on special occasions, the heirloom given down to each heir on the wedding day.

The piano started playing as you entered the hall, guests arise to their feet, staring at you in awe. Your mother stood at the end of the hall with Francis; happiness laced with sadness painted on her expressions, seeing her only child in white walking down the aisle. Your eyes wander along the decorations in the hall before landing on Draco. He looked undeniably handsome, his platinum blonde hair neatly combed as always, expression unreadable.

When the rings and vows were exchanged the hall erupted in an applause. You looked up to see Draco looking at you with a fake smile etched on his face, the sounds of cheering suddenly muted. It was all an act, you remind yourself.

.

.

A/N : —Luna here ! I decided to start a series ;) and..a special appreciation to Celeste for being my trusty editor !! If you enjoy this please reblog/share 👉🏼👈🏼🥺. We made a taglist form that can be found on our bio and here [x].

Taglist 🏷 : @amourtentiaa