#when asking just the right soli question/sending just the right soli ask you might get a sketch in return

[bleaksqueak]

Please give maia some warm milk and a 12 hour nap please she needs to rest and relax and not interact with the horrors thank you

[pandorafallz]

Vampire AU | Returning to Site 26

Grace’s return back to the Shack was…uneventful aside from the matter that she had Paz drop her off but her mind was still buzzing a little from what she had heard from Mansk.

For two days, she was away handling the aftermath of the Quad’s escape, she had worked with Mansk to help him out with the loss to the SciOps there, going over the details of possibly sending Molly up there if Walker was being sent back. Checked in with the others, except Hale who had been overseeing the mine more personally and Mansk had the gall to drop the news of the IVS Destiny on her in passing when talking about Dr Solis. Not that Mansk knew. She never told anyone aside from Paz and Hale about her daughter.

Her daughter could be alive.

If her heart was beating, she knew she’d be in a flutter and anxious about it; waiting to know when the ship came in planetary range but even then, she knew there was no guarantee she would have survived the trip. RDA protocols and all that bullshit.

If Ridley was alive, she had a chance to…reconnect with her long-lost daughter. If not…. Grace wanted to find the best place possible for her to bury her daughter’s remains. She couldn’t hope… but there was that spark and it was uncomfortable to have.

“You fed before you left, right?” Paz asked suddenly.

Grace nodded airily, the question pulling her attention thankfully away from her daughter. “Should be good for a few days.” She knew better than to return here on all three empty stomachs. She’d welcome the chance back to Hell’s Gate when possible as well so helping with Mansk was a fulfilling trip, so to speak.  She didn’t have to break into another bag tonight. “How’s Miles?”

Paz’s expression pulled in. “Sitting up, ready to start crawling. Not denting his iron teething ring I made but he’s chewed through rubber bottle teats now. I think he needs solids now.”

Grace’s head tilted. “He’ll need blood then… and meat.”

“I’m going to have to start hunting local game. Maybe a viperwolf might sustain him but… I don’t know where to store it if he can keep it down.” There uncertainty was very palpable in her tone ad with how she gripped the stick.

“The void space where our meetings used to be. Since we’re all scattered, we can’t use it.” Grace offered. “It’s far closer than our lab.”

Paz hummed, “I’ve considered the lab. I’ll use it when we can’t hide Mile’s Vampiric habits but.. I hope to hold out for another two months.”

“Try and wait till after the radiation storm week,” Grace suggested, “we can’t leave when that hits and you won’t have the supplies.”

Paz let out a redundant sigh to emphasise her wordless frustration.

Grace patted her arm lightly. “Look, I still have my avatar. I could still get you stuff if you have to ditch before then… but it’ll just be a long goddamn walk.”

Paz’s grip on the stick slacked a little. “Thank you.”

-

Arriving back at Site 26, Grace bid her farewell to Paz, jumped out of the Samson with her bag and headed towards the shack. She couldn’t hear anything questionable, which was a relief. There was no mistake that flame between Norm and Trudy and no doubt they had been waiting until she was gone to properly fuck each other raw. She didn’t need to cross into their minds to know they were both horny and waiting for an opportunity. At least she hoped they’d get it out of their system. She doubted they’d miss it given it was two days and Trudy had been very eager to return, after all.

Boy, she was gonna have to vent that shack to air it out. A lot.

Inside, Grace was proven right but the lingering smell was hours stale, nonetheless, she headed straight to the air con to up the venting system and then tossed her bag into her bed. Norm was in the bathroom, showering if the sound of the water running was any indication.

Trudy was reading on her bed though frowned as she realised who it was. “Shit, why didn’t you let me know to pick you up?” She scrambled out of bed, dressed in a simple tank and shorts.

“I considered it but I figured you were too busy doing something,” Grace spoke, unpacking her clothes and shoving her night clothes under her pillow.

“Shit…” Trudy worried, shaking her head, eyes darting around for her clothes. “I’m going to get into so much trouble.”

“Relax. I told Quaritch you were out with Norm running a sample gathering.”

“Wh-oh.” Trudy blinked in surprise. “Wait, you lied?” She sounded genuinely surprised

Grace raised an eyebrow at the pilot “Did you, at any time, take Norm to get samples in the two days that I was away?” She couldn’t help the slight exasperation because surely they were actual professionals out here to do their jobs.

“Yes,” Trudy said. “He got more of that resin-plant stuff.”

Grace relaxed, giving a satisfied nod. “Then I didn’t lie. I didn’t just specify timings.” Grace Left her bag where it was. “I need to link up. Are the samples in the lab outside?”

Trudy nodded, “I’ll let Norm know when he’s out.”

Grace left her at that without another word, happily starting up her link bed and slipping inside before she opened her big yellow eyes.

Boy, her avatar was complaining. She had linked up once at Hell’s Gate to feed it and take care of its needs but that had been brief since she had work to do elsewhere. Now, her stomach panged with hunger, her mouth dry with thirst and oddly enough, she actually enjoyed the unpleasant sensation as she weakly clambered out of the hammock, not bothering with shoes as she padded out to the fridge for some food. Coming across water first, she drained the bottle quickly then continued her fridge raid.

Grace knew, in some ways, it was wrong to enjoy the unpleasantness of her avatar’s discomforts but… it was the only way she could feel the differences. This body felt alive and screamed for it when needs weren’t met. Her…native body not so much. She missed that, oddly.

She missed how the thirst for water was just a dry mouth and the innate desire for water to saturation that mild sensation, not the horrible burning that grew hotter and hotter and could only be saturated by blood. Or the act of holding her breath, the relief of it when she released it. In her vampire form, she could hold her breath for as long as she wanted and the only discomfort she got was the lack of sense of smell. No relief.

Still, she’s never purposely do anything to harm her avatar and deny its needs when she could easily provide it. It wouldn’t last forever but she had to make sure it lived long. Only body she could age in and live through. It made eating that jello pot all the more delicious to the point she remained crouched in front of the open fridge as she ate. Contemplating another pot or granola bar when a voice rang out…

“This sight would be far funnier at 4 am.”

Grace’s head turned, spoon in mouth. “Hm?”

Norm was sitting up in the hammock, grinning a little as he pulled himself out. “Nothing, nothing.” He waved his hand, taking a second to roll his shoulders and pop something. “How’s the trip?” Norm moved to change his shirt and shorts so she turned away to focus on her quick meal.

She pulled the spoon from her mouth, snagged a granola and tossed the empty jello pot into the trash. “As expected. Selfridge is fuming about it. Quaritch… well I heard very little from him actually. I last heard he was in his office doing research on the defectors.” Grace spoke. “Quaritch has never done that so intently. Honestly, I debated on sending the chapel priest to his office instead. With Salt.”

Norm snorted loudly.

Grace chewed through the bar quickly, taking the moment to grab her day clothes and detoured for the loo but returned happily feeling far more refreshed and Norm was already prepping the lab and the samples he had taken were laid out on the central desk.

It wasn’t just resin samples, she realised but there were a few pots so clearly his sample gathering had been fruitful. She didn’t recognise the sealed container but it looked like it contained a water moss of sorts, a pale white with blue threads of colour. There was a Tsawksyul Petal (also known as  a sun lily), some sort of large orange-sized berries and an Acrid pod.

“You’ve been busy,” Grace noted, pleased.

Norm chuckled softly. “they weren’t easy to get.”

“I’m surprised you found an acrid pod, they don’t tend to be this far out East, they prefer the West’s temperature and biomes, water mostly.”

“I can only assume they grew from animal droppings.”

Grace pursed her lips as she took the pod first, pulling out one of her equipment to gather the oil from one of the twelve pods.

“What was the environment of the acrid pods? Riverside or pond?”

“A stream, actually. It wasn’t alone, there were three more on the rock it was on but I left it at that. The others looked immature.”

“Acrid pods are filled with this crude, thick oil,” Grace explained, watching as the yellow, pus-like liquid filled the syringe. “It can be used as a form of explosive at high speeds or ignited. Some na’vi clans can add these to their bow to increase firepower.”

“Oh, wow” Norm looked at it curiously, “I knew they were flammable but… I didn’t realise they’d be part of Na’vi’s arsenal like that.”

“They don’t use these ones often. I’ve never seen it in action but with this, we can run the chemical composition and see how it works and what it eats through. Once we empty the pods, the seeds, we can study but we can replant them by one of the nearby streams so we shouldn’t have to go too far. Also, the skin looks fascinating. I wonder if it has an internal mucus-like membrane to sustain itself against its oil like a human gut or if it’s immune to its own effects…”

-

Together, they worked for hours and the afternoon was soon becoming closer to twilight, taking apart the samples but setting aside the berry and resin into the sample fridge for another time as they broke down the samples, getting chemical compositions running and Grace took the time to get some people at Hell’s gate to look over what they couldn’t complete in the lab.

Grace set aside the physical samples she’d need to be delivered to Hell’s Gate SciOps lab for tomorrow for that as well, so Trudy was going to be busy tomorrow. They unlinked after their avatar’s dinner and Grace left Norm and Trudy for their meal and settled primarily to sit on her bunk. She didn’t change, even as the two humans finished, washed up, kissed and clambered into their bunks then the lights went out

She just lay there but in the darkness, her mind resurfaced this morning’s news again now she was no longer busy or occupying her mind with work. At least conversation had been a distraction. She didn’t have that now. Left alone with her thoughts and all her work was in the lab and she didn’t have the luxury be able to sleeping through it. Times like this, she damned the vampire’s inability to sleep.

Grace remained still, listening out as the two humans fell into sleep; their heartbeats slowing down and their breathing falling into a relaxed pattern of light sleep but even then, it didn’t offer a sustainable distraction despite trying to track each of their sleeping stages.

Noise outside did however pull her attention. Vampire hands and feet scaling upwards. Grace slipped from her bed and out, snagging a last last-second but didn’t put it on—on the off-chance she was seen coming back in.

The familiar sight of Hale appearing over the edge was a surprise but welcome.

“Katherine?”

Hale’s contacts were out, showing off the red hue that was tinged with darkness but she looked… uncomfortable. “I wished you popped over to MineOps before you left.” She said, leading the way from the front to the far side which covered any view from the shack.

“Everything alright?” Grace followed her though she could smell the dirt on her still and the metallic undertone that somehow lingered in her scent.. She could see the clothes were changed still and clean.

Hale let out a frustrated sigh. “I need some of your blood.” She said and the younger vampire peeled off her gloves and shrugged off her jacket, dropping them to the grass.

“Oh shit.” Grace reached for Hale’s arm.

Burgundy Splotches, almost like dust-patterns coated her skin like a horrible rash. Clear as anything with their eyesight despite the darkness of night. Hale pulled her hands away, only to pull down the collar of her turtle neck where more irritated skin was there as well and no doubt more underneath

“Unobtainium rashes,” Grace noted in concern, her hand touching the long curve of discolouration along her jugular, noting how it traced under the mask line. “I thought you were able to handle it.”

“We need to upgrade the filters in the refinery but we have no due-cause just yet for me to just do it. Nothing’s flagged up yet. Our other filters are struggling but keeping up. The downside is we need Selfridge’s stamp of approval to implement the upgrades both prompted and unprompted” Hale said, “The mask protects my face but the dust particles are settling into my clothes now. I shower every night but this keeps happening after I do my visit. It aches but doesn’t itch. Thankfully.”

Grace examined the rash. “These are more like blood spots, you’re body’s trying to heal from the exposure. How’s your thirst?”

“Not the best,” Hale admitted. “I’ve had to feed a little more than usual but it’s not enough. Since we’re MineOps, we can wash and decom our clothes as much as we want to avoid contamination but it’s hard to keep up.”

Within their group, Grace came to learn that while unobtainium was an irritant to vampire biology, not as bad as silver which flat-out burned on contact but this, with contact their bodies seemed to react with a rash instead which took time to go down once the source of the flair was removed from contact without fresh vampire blood. The flair was gone, now but the marks were still healing.

Now, younger vampires didn’t quite have the same vampire blood reserves as a mature vampire would. It took years after the transformation for a vampire’s heart to create enough of their Vampiric blood cells to fill their body and saturate through the current supplied in their veins. The blood cells would act as stem cells; to heal and grow for what the body needs. A mature vampire has blue blood to show their biological maturity (and the fact vampire blood was by nature unoxygenated). A younger would have red which would darken over time.

Henrik, being the youngest had a dark red, Paz and Hale had become burgundy, and baby Miles had a darker shade than his mother’s (and clearly non-human to outsiders). Since her turning, Grace’s blood had darkened to an egg-plant purple now and the rest of their group were at the shade of navy blue.

This meant that healing was also age-subjective as their vampire blood was a key factor to healing. A mature vampire would certainly heal more rapidly than a newly-turned. A Sire’s blood was more efficient than mature blood from another vampire. The closest ‘genetic’ match for vampire biology. It also means they couldn’t risk spilling blood in front of humans; that’d sell them out for sure.

From what she could see, Hale’s body was struggling to heal. If this carried on, the rashes would start to leave marks. Permanently.

Grace silently rolled up her sleeve and pushed it up her arm. “Have at it.” She said, there was no point delaying this, she still had a responsibility to maintain care over those she turned, even if it was the ever-prominent reminder of what they were. At least in her avatar, she could have moments to pretend.

There was no hesitation or awkwardness over it as Kathrine closed the distance and bit straight into the brachial artery at the crook of her elbow. Graced hissed out a little at the pain but it didn’t last too long. She twisted to better look Katherine's arm as she fed but gladly noted as the red spots began to fade out.

“You’re done,” Grace said, as the last few marks began to disappear entirely however, Hale didn’t stop or release so she yanked the fellow red-haired by the ponytail. “Stop.”

Katherine hissed, pulling back and baring her jaw with sharpened teeth in an irritable manner but Grace matched her, her teeth sharpening into fangs. She yanked her head back by the pony again, having not let go to remind the young vampire of her position. There was still a hierarchy between sires and their childes.

She best remembers that.

It took a few seconds before Katherine’s teeth reverted back to blunt-human-like teeth before Grace let go to heal her arm, glad to see that she hadn’t gotten blood on her clothes at the very least. Not something she wanted to talk to Norm about if she didn’t wash her clothes in time.

Hale licked her lips clean, taking a further second to compose herself. “Thank you.” She looked sharply towards the shack. “Your colleague’s woken up and wondering where you are.”

“Damn it, Norm.” She listened out, hearing him slowly clambering out of bed. It was 2 am, probably confused. Just what she needed right now. Grace slipped on the mask, glad for once she hadn’t removed her contact lenses.

“Why don’t you sit outside the shack, say you’re star gazing. New constellations?” Katherine suggested, adjusting her attire back, her jacket back on and gloves.

“Try and hold out but come to me if the rashes are that bad again.” Grace nodded to her arm as she said this. Katherine saluted and then jumped very casually off the mountain, her clothes rustling loudly in her descent.

With the lesser gravity, she was still falling by the time Grace moved and flittered back to the shack, sliding to sit outside the shack steps and ten seconds later, the airlock door opened before a very groggy-sounding Norm spoke.

“Grace? What are you doing? It’s 2 am. It’s not safe at night”

“Couldn’t sleep,” Grace said, not technically lying and letting out a sigh. “Insomnia is very common with avatar drivers…long-term.” She added. Again, not a lie. “Sorry… I didn’t want to wake you up.”

Norm stared at her for a long moment, frowning at her behind his mask. “Are you okay?”

Grace hummed. “Of course.”

Norm didn’t look convinced. “You know, you can talk to me if there’s something on your mind. Me and Trudy are here.”

“I know.”

Norm stared for a long moment then let go of the door, passing out and slowly sunk down beside her, taking a moment to look around, then up.

Silence fell between them for a few minutes.

“It’s weird to think Earth is upwards. We came from so far away and now, we’re looking up at our home world and…can’t even see it.”  Norm chuckled softly. “Has the RDA done any astrology studies from Pandora?”

“Not really. We travel through space, we don’t need to study the constellations again.” Grace admitted. “RDA won’t fund for it either. A redundant science.”

“I wonder what clans chart the sky.”

“From what Dr Harper told me of the clan, the Anurai clan have astrologists, or as they say, Stargazer,” Grace spoke.

“You know, if we ever get to meet one of the Na’vi, we should ask, right?”

Grace peered at him softly but said nothing. She could see where his question was coming from; to know the Na’vi’s perspective on space and how they saw the outside world. It was interesting, from a cultural standpoint but she’d leave those questions for him to ask.

After a moment, Norm sighed again, twitching a little in discomfort and his knee gave a quiet pop as he stretched out a little.

Her gaze turned up to the sky for a moment. She could see so much more but didn’t want to point anything out. She couldn’t remember the limit of human eyes. Even her avatar eyes were better than human eyes. Still, there was little to no light pollution in the mountains so even Norm had a spectacular view of the sky.

It was weird to think that… soon there would be another ship coming. Another ship coming that had her daughter on. Alive…dead… but here all the same.

“Ridley might be alive,” Grace stated quietly.

Norm’s head turned to her suddenly, eyes widening. “R-Really?”

Grace shrugged. “Just…rumour someone from higher up mentioned that…the IVS Density was located…and on its way. No passenger confirmation. She might be dead still.”

Norm looked a little startled before he let out a huff. “No wonder you’re out here.” He remarked, “Sorry if that sounded off...” He realised a second later.

Grace shook her head. “It’s fine, Norm.”

“No, it’s not but thanks, I guess.” He looked up to the stars as well. “If…you don’t mind me asking but…what’s she like? Your daughter?”

Grace let out a deep, redundant breath. “Honestly… I wish I knew. Before I left, she was this adorable, clingy two-year-old who tried to hide in my luggage or sneak into my bed. She absolutely loved water.” She smiled softly. “After the umbilical stump finally fell off, I started to let her float in the kitchen sink for me to study. She loved simply floating. She had this inflatable neck support that kept her head out of the water but… it allowed me to work and study beside her. I still had to get through avatar training and my Ph.D.s. Doing that with a new-born… really difficult”

Norm smiled softly, “Sounds adorable.”

“Ridley cried every time I had to pull her out.” She remembered how it used to tear at her heart to hear her cry so hard and her father had to stop her putting the baby back in the sink. Post-partum had not been easy but with her father’s support, she never would have made it in either her work or child-rearing.

“What was she trained in?”

“Well… Xenobotanist but she chose a speciality in water-based plants and life forms. I’m not surprised.” She had been following her daughter’s career the best she could in Pandora. “She’s trained in Xenoanthropology and Xenolinguistics. Dr Harper accepted her application into the Avatar program but I bet a lot of people are gonna make assumptions...” she wasn’t looking forward to that. If Ridley had become anything like her, she was probably gonna be equally annoyed about it. Ridley didn’t get a free pass to Pandora because of their relation. She earned it like everyone else (except Sully but she didn’t count him). She hadn’t been head of SciOps for nine years, only three and a half years but they weren’t gonna remember that now, would they?

“She’ll have an avatar?”

Grace nodded gently. “If it’s and she’s still alive, yes.”

Norm hummed softly, his tone gentle. “I hope she’s okay.”

“I hope I get to know her again. It’s… I know there’s a chance she won’t remember me but I hope she’ll talk to me.” That worried her the most really. What if Ridley wanted nothing to do with her? While they shared the same family name…a face even, they could be too different to get along. Or maybe Ridley just wanted to keep things at a professional distance. What if Ridley resented her for leaving?

“I hope so too, Grace. I really do.” Norm reached a little awkwardly, patting her on the shoulder but he took a sudden intake of breath, jaw clenching and nostrils fared as he tried to suppress a yawn, his eyes watering a little.

“Bedtime,” Grace decided, rising to her feet.

Norm shook his head. “It's fine, I can stay up a little longer. You can…keep talking. It’ll make you feel better.”

Grace shook her head but offered him a tired smile of gratitude. “Tomorrow…maybe.” She reached for the airlock, holding it open for him to clamber to his feet and head in first.

She did feel a little better, now that she realised it. Lighter, even but it was no guarantee the weight wouldn’t come back.

She just hoped Ridley was alive. It would be nice to be a mother again.

Masterlist

[maliby]

Ero (m) | Min Yoongi

↬ Pairing: Yoongi x Female reader ↬ Story Genre: smut,vampire!au, cop!au, pwp (kinda) ↬ Warnings: blood, spanking, choking, cum play, degradation, deepthroat, explicit sex, strong language ↬ Word count: 5.5K ↬ Summary: Ero was magical realm specifically designed to fulfil all your sexual fantasies, and the guy you got paired with makes you want to come back for more.

There was a myth going around of a secret magical dimension where all your sexual fantasies would come true - Ero. The rumours never spoke of how and why it was created, all they spoke about was of how great it was. 

Time would run faster there when compared to the real world, so if you spent 24 hours in Ero, only 1 hour would have passed in the real world. The great thing about Ero (besides all your senses being heightened, no sexual diseases being passed through and the impossibility of getting pregnant) was that the realm would recreate your most secret desires for you, desires that you might not even have uncovered yet. Ero would match you up with your most compatible partner or partners, whether they were real and in the realm or not. The only problem was that you had no idea how to get there. 

For 2 years now you’ve been single, and you’re not saying you haven’t had your fun with one night stands, but how lucky do you have to be to find that one guy that just knocks your socks off the first time you have sex with them? That’s why you needed to try Ero. Because you weren’t looking to just satisfy your needs, you were looking for a fucking experience.

So ever since you’ve heard of Ero you’ve been looking for ways of getting in. It took you months of searching and visiting questionable websites when you finally found something on a forum on a deep corner of the internet: a recipe for a potion. Now, you weren’t one to just believe everything you saw on the internet (especially since you had been fooled many times before) so you decided to simply send the guy a DM and check him out. 

Both of you ended up Skyping, and he answered all your questions. He was a Portuguese guy named Luis who had been exploring the world with his girlfriend Andreia when on one of their travels through southern Asia they hooked up with a girl that taught them all about Ero and how to get in there. Since then, he said, he felt like he should share the knowledge with the world because the more people came into Ero, the more possible compatible partners there would be and the happier people would be.

Feeling a sense of trust from talking to him you decided to try the potion out as soon as you turned off the Skype call. 

“Okay, 1 teaspoon of my arousal, check, 1 drop of my blood, check, and 100 mL of passion fruit juice, check.” You said as you looked at the instructions Luis had given you.  

You grabbed the glass with the potion and quickly drank all of it. “Not so bad. Now for the final step…” 

After drinking the potion you had to have an orgasm, and as you were cumming you had to chant some words in an indigenous language. So you went to your bed and started playing with your purple vibrator, the piece of paper with the recipe getting slightly crumbled in your left hand as you got closer and closer to ecstasy.

“Mikano farti, soli manu gatchi splechrt Y/N kuji Ero!” You chanted nonstop as your orgasm built. When your body started contorting due to your orgasm you felt a warm breeze run through your body, and suddenly it was like you were levitating. When you opened your eyes, after your beating heart calmed down from the euphoric feeling, you were no longer in your bedroom.

The room surrounding you was a small and simple one, the walls painted black, a single lamp above you and a golden door right in front of you. On the door there was a note that said the following:

“You are a thief.

Your safe word is ‘______’ (write your safe word).

Your sexual partner’s safe word is ‘piano’.

If the safe word is said then both the participants will immediately return to the real world.

You can’t stay for more than 24 hours at a time.

If you wish to leave, just say: Ero mati brati. 

 Enjoy.”

When you read that you were a thief you immediately noticed your outfit. You were no longer in your pyjamas but were instead in a full-length black bodysuit with a very deep neckline that was one move away from letting your boobs pop out.

As the last step before going in, you took the pen that was right next to the note and wrote ‘frappuccino’ as your safe word. “Well...let’s go get it.” You had no idea of what to expect, but of one thing you were sure: you were going to enjoy it.

You opened up the door and walked into a jewellery store, the door behind you disappearing in a cloud of smoke after you had closed it. 

You walked around, inspecting the store and got surprised at how real everything was. You knew that this was supposedly a magical realm thus, making a jewellery store appear is nothing out of the ordinary, but actually being in there and seeing it first hand was a different story.

You passed by a display of an all diamond choker and immediately your chin fell to the floor due to the expensive item that had way too many zeros in its price for you to count. 

“They said I was a thief, let’s be a thief then,” you kicked the glass three times with your heels until it shattered.

As soon as you picked up the choker the alarm started ringing loudly and bars quickly descended, blocking every escape possible. There was nothing left for you to do except to wait and see what Ero would bring your way, though your mind already had a suspicion of the game of cat and mouse you were about to play.

About 10 minutes passed before the sound of police sirens started ringing in the distance, the distinctive blue lights appearing not long after. The excitement started to grow inside you, your heart pumping your blood faster due to the slight adrenaline kicking in.

“Police! Put your hands where I can see them!” a male voice said from outside the store, the light of his flashlight blinding you.

You obeyed and put your hands up in the air, showing submission. 

“Turn around. No funny business,” the way he was barking orders at you was already starting to make you wet.

Moments later the security system was disabled and the bars went back up. 

“Go up to that wall,” he commanded and you soon obeyed. “Hands behind your back now, slowly.”

As soon as you put your hands back you could feel his long fingers grabbing your wrist with some force before restraining you with his cold metal handcuffs. He then used the same fingers to place all of your hair on your left shoulder, presumably to say something in your ear, but it was then that he noticed the diamond choker on your neck. “Did you really think I’d let you leave with that, sweetheart?”

“Didn’t hurt to try,” you responded.

His hand loosely circled around your neck. His fingers then ran through the diamonds covering it until they reached the clasp, which he proceeded to unclasp, letting the choker fall right to the floor. “Not on my watch.”

He then grabbed you by your arm and started pulling you outside, straight to his car. He dropped you on the back seat, closed your door, and sat on the front seat, immediately starting the engine and driving off. 

You hadn’t managed to take a look at him inside the store, but the piercing eyes looking back at you through the rearview mirror told you way more about him than you needed to know. Just the amount of chemistry you felt through a simple stare was enough to make your loins burn with desire for him. 

“So...what’s your name, officer?” you asked in a sultry voice.

“Officer Min. What about you, thief?”

“Y/N.”

You must admit you’d like to know more about him, but for now the only thing you’d like to know is how his dick feels like inside of you. So, since Ero was designed to fulfil your sexual fantasies you decided to be a little daring. “Officer Min, what would it take for you to set me free?” 

He chuckled, the smirk he had on his face now visible through the rearview mirror. “Forget it. You’re not getting off so easy.”

So you’re making it hard for me, huh?, you thought, no problem, I’ll just make it hard for you too.

You turned around and started rubbing your breasts against the car seat so they would pop out of your slutty outfit. Once they were out, you moved a little bit to the front and smashed your naked tits against the car grid that was separating the both of you. “Are you sure about that officer?”

Once his eyes fixated on your breasts through the mirror, you slowly started rubbing them up and down on the grid so your nipples would get erect. Since you were in Ero, every part of your body was extra sensitive, so each time your nipples rubbed against the cold metal grid your mouth would release tiny little moans that made the veins on Officer Min’s arms pop out. 

“I’m willing to do anything…” you said.

The car immediately stopped on the roadside, in the middle of nowhere. Officer Min promptly left the vehicle and opened the door next to where you were sitting.

“Get out,” he ordered as he held the door open.

You obeyed. You had a little trouble getting out of the car with your hands handcuffed but you managed to keep your balance. It was when you properly looked at him and the huge boner in his pants though that you almost dropped dead to the floor.

He grabbed your neck and pushed you against the car door. The way his warm breath brushed your face, the way his strong hand grabbed you by your neck like he owned you and the way his rock hard dick was poking at your leg was making you so incredibly wet that you felt like a fucking faucet.

“Who the hell do you think you are, slut?” he sternly said as his eyes penetrated your soul. “Do you really think I’d let a little thing like you go? You...” his free hand twisted and pinched your left nipple making you moan, “...are mine now. Got it?”

“Y-yes,” you said with difficulty, as he was still grabbing you by the throat.

“Good,” he freed your neck, making you choke up, as you greedily tried to inhale as much oxygen as you could.

“Now, you were still a very naughty little girl, and I’m still an officer of the law so...” he grabbed you by your arm and dragged you to the back of the car where he bent you over the trunk, “you still need to be punished.” In a matter of seconds, his hands were on your crotch, and your full bodysuit was being ripped apart, leaving your most sensitive parts exposed to the slight breeze of the night.

“Look at that sweetheart, you’re so fucking turned on that your little thong is completely soaked,” one of his fingers ran through your cunt over your panties as if to taunt you.

The sweet sensation was driving you crazy, until your bare ass cheeks were met with the hardness of his club, a scream of pain immediately coming out of you. “How many should I give you? 1?” he soothed the aching area with his hand before delivering another hit with the club, “2?”.

“Fuck!” you screamed.

“3?” hit, “hmm...maybe 4?” hit. “Alright, I’ve made up my mind,” hit, “it’s 5.”

Tears were running down your eyes, because of your heightened senses, but fuck were you horny now. You couldn’t explain it, he just did that to you.

“Oh honey, did it hurt?”

“Y-yes.”

“I’m sorry baby, but that’s the only way bad girls will learn,” he pulled your upper body up to him and started leaving sweet kisses on your neck. The combination of his sucking and licking and his erection poking at your ass was making you moan.

Just when you thought he was done with his club you felt it rubbing up and down your cunt, the sensation was so good that you couldn’t help but bite your lip and close your eyes, “mhmm, officer Min.”

“You like that?

“Fuck yes.”

“How about this?” he slipped your thong to the side, rubbed the club up and down your slick and slowly inserted it up your hole. The club wasn’t that huge that it costs a bit the first time, but it was big enough to stretch you up.

“Oh shit, that feels so good.”

Then, without any warning, he picked up his speed and started fucking you like a wild person. You wanted to reach your clit with your hands to give you that extra bit of pleasure, but the handcuffs around your wrists prevented you to do so. “Oh, officer-“

You were on the verge of cumming, when he suddenly removed the club from inside of you, leaving you a frustrated mess.

“You really didn’t expect that little a slut like you would have what she wants so soon, didn’t you? Get on your knees.”

Once more, you promptly obeyed his commands. He opened up the flyer of his pants and pulled out his dick. As soon as you noticed his protruding veins and the precum on the tip of his penis your mouth immediately filled with saliva, ready to accommodate him.

“Suck,” he placed his swollen dick in front of you and you quickly opened your mouth and surround it.

Your tongue swirled around his cock, making him moan in pleasure. You didn’t think it was possible, but the way he moaned turned you on even more. It was like a low and raspy growl, almost like you were taming a wild animal. You were sure his moaning would haunt you in the wildest of your dreams, and you were glad of it.

“Fuck baby, that feels so good. Swallow it,” he grabbed the back of your head and lodged his dick at the back of your throat. You gagged a bit but managed to please him.

“Shit,” he removed himself from inside of you, a string of your saliva following his red cock. “You’re gonna make me cum like that.”

“I’m sorry officer Min.” Really, you weren’t. You wanted him to explode in your throat. You wanted him to bless you with his warm cum. You wanted to watch his face contort in pleasure, as he moaned in pleasure. You wanted him to call you a good girl when you swallowed all his cum. You wanted all of that and so much more.

“Get here,” he helped you up by pulling you by your arm. You had no idea what he was going to do next and were surprised as you felt his lips crash onto yours. His tongue invaded your mouth and started twirling with yours. He was fucking devouring you like he was starving and you were his favourite food.

He backed you up to the trunk of the car and lifted up your legs as he sloppily kissed you. You circled your legs around his waist so you could get him as close to you as possible. You wanted to feel him, and you could tell by the way he grabbed you that he wanted the same. You weren’t a cop and thief anymore, you were two people so attracted to one another that all they wanted to do was fuck each other.

Not long into your heated making out session he inserted his cock inside of you, making the both of moan in each other’s mouths.

“Fuck Y/N, you feel so good,” he said.

“You fill me up so good, Min.”

He was practically drilling you at this point, the sound of skin slapping on skin echoing all through the empty road. Once more you wanted to touch your clit, but your restrained hands were keeping you from doing so, but as if he was reading your thoughts Min reached for your clit and started rubbing it. Almost as soon as you felt the extra friction your orgasm started building, and in a matter of seconds, you were cumming on his dick, the pulsing of your walls also triggering his orgasm.

As you both recovered you couldn’t help but be amazed at how this was the best orgasm you’d ever had. You didn’t know if it was because you were in Ero, or if it was because of Min, but fuck did you want to have it again.

“This is my first time in Ero. What’s the norm? Do you just leave or do we chat for a bit?” You shyly asked after you had recovered your breath.

“We can chat,” he said as he got off of you. “Here, let me get those off for you,” he removed the key from his pocket and freed you from your handcuffs.

“Oof, that feels nice,” you said as you rubbed your wrists.

“Was I too rough on you?” he asked as he heard your comment, concern showing all through his features.

“No, no, no! You were...perfect,” you felt your cheeks burn with the sudden shyness that hit you.

“Thanks. You too,” the way he smiled warmed up your heart. Who knew he’d have such a sweet smile?

“So, Min...” you said while you covered up your exposed breasts.

“It’s Yoongi, Min is my surname. And you don’t need to cover them up,” he said with a naughty smile on his face.

“Wouldn’t you like that Yoongi?” You both laughed. “But tell me Yoongi, what do you like to do in your free time?”

“Well, actually I love to play the piano-“

Suddenly everything went dark and a warm strong breeze came, the feeling of levitation you felt when you came here coming back. When you opened up your eyes again you were laying on your bed and Yoongi was nowhere to be seen.

What the fuck just happened?, you thought, why the fuck am I back in my room?! You wanted to know more about Yoongi, and maybe even go for a second round...or third...but then everything stopped. It was then that you remembered the set of rules on the golden door, specifically the one that said that both participants would return to the real world as soon as the safe word was said. ‘Piano’ was Yoongi’s safe word. FUCK! How would you be able to find him now? What were the chances of you going back into Ero and him being there at the same time as you again? 

Then a very important question emerged in your head: Was he even real? It was said that the partner chosen for you could be someone in the realm or a creation of the realm. So, how could you be sure he was real? He seemed real enough, but how could you be so sure when you’re talking about a magical realm?

It’s been 2 weeks since you’ve been to Ero. You may be asking: “Why didn’t go back in there?” The truth is that you wanted to, you really wanted to, but you were afraid. What if you didn’t find Yoongi again? What if another guy came through and you didn’t have as much chemistry as you and Yoongi? And then, of course, the most heartbreaking possibility: what if Yoongi wasn’t real? Were you really ready to be disappointed?

But tonight you finally let go of your doubts and decided to get back in there. Ero had given you exactly what it promised: the kind of mind-blowing sex you always wanted. So really you were never going to lose by going back in there. If you found Yoongi again, amazing, if not, you were confident Ero wouldn’t disappoint you. So you drank the potion, had the orgasm and said the magic words and here you were again on the little black room with the golden door.

When you looked at your outfit and saw that it was the same as last time, your heart started racing thinking you could be fucking Yoongi again, but as soon as you looked at the rules and saw that the safe word for your partner was Australopithecus you realized you were wrong. What kind of a freak has Australopithecus as a safe word for sex?! Maybe he’s an archaeologist or something...you thought.

As you looked at the list once more, it was confirmed that you were, once again, a thief. You then wrote your safe word ‘frappuccino’ and opened the golden door to go into your fantasy.

This time you were in what looked like an old creepy mansion filled with antiques. If you were being honest you were a little scared of the place, but once you thought about how Ero is a safe place where everyone can enjoy themselves you relaxed a bit.

You started exploring the house and every piece of art there present. They didn’t provide you with any kind of bag, so you couldn’t steal much, but that wasn’t the reason you were there for anyways.

You decided to go upstairs. Once you reached the top of the stairs you noticed that all the doors on that floor were closed except for one that was slightly open - the door at the end of the hall. Something about that room called to you and you just knew that the fact that that was the only door open meant you were supposed to go in there.

You entered the room and noticed that it looked very different to the rest of the house; whereas the majority of the house looked like it hadn’t been touched or cleaned in years, you could tell that the room had been used by the lack of dust and cobwebs. The room had a weird vibe about it. Everything in there was dark, yet inviting at the same time. 

You approached a very old looking black wood vanity and noticed a beautiful gold box encrusted with emeralds. The stones and the gold details were placed in such a way that made it look like the box was covered in beautiful green and gold flowers.

When you went to open the box to see its contents you heard a creak from the old dark wooden floor that made you immediately let go of the box.

“I don’t like intruders,” a familiar voice said. You turned around and your heart rejoiced as you were met with Yoongi in a beautiful black suit with some simple embroidering.

“Yoongi…” you smiled, for you knew that whatever might happen next was going to be nothing but excellent.

“I see you really like being a thief, and that outfit in particular…” his eyes scanned you up and down, no doubt remembering your last encounter.

“Me? Maybe you’re the one who likes fucking thieves.”

He chuckled, “I do enjoy punishing bad girls, and that box you were planning on stealing belonged to my mother.”

“So what are you gonna do about it this time?” you teased as you saw the smirk on his face grow.

In a blink of an eye, he was right in front of you grabbing you by your neck. When he saw the confused look on your face by how fast he was able to move he showed you his fangs, sense immediately coming to your head. 

“I don’t know. All I know is that I’m fucking thirsty,” he had barely finished his sentence when his mouth was devouring yours just like it did the last time. 

You had no clue what it was about him, but it appeared that lust between the two of you never seemed to cease. Even when he was biting your lip with his sharp fang, you felt nothing but pleasure. You wished for nothing more than to just give him everything he wanted.

“Why do bad girls have to taste so good?” he said as he licked his teeth clean of your blood.

You didn’t even manage to answer, you simply slowly undressed under his prying eyes and made your way to the king-size bed. Yoongi soon followed you, immediately laying on top of your naked body and leaving kisses on your neck.

“Please don’t kill me Mr. Vampire, I’ll do anything you want,” you said, getting in the spirit of the roleplay.

“Since you asked so nicely, I’ll comply.”

“Thank you, sir.”

His kisses were trailing down your belly to your pubic bone region when he suddenly stopped. “But you said nothing about me eating you,” and that was when he opened up his mouth and bit you in the region above your clit, your blood immediately running down your pussy.

The way he was sucking and licking, both momentaneously drinking your blood and giving you oral was driving you absolutely mad. And the way he’d moan in satisfaction against your pussy lips only added more fuel to the fire, but it was only when he inserted his fingers inside of you that you instantly came.

“Fuuuuuck, Yoongi,” you were grabbing his hair with such a force that you were sure you might pull it out.

“You taste so fucking good, I might have to keep you locked in here for eternity,” he gave one last lick over your lips and clit, making you tremble in overstimulation.

“Let me taste you, please.” As soon as you recovered from your orgasm, sucking his dick was all you could think about. You could just imagine his thick veiny dick leaking with precum, and you could just imagine how he would moan as you’d start milking it with your mouth.

“You really like my cock, don’t you?” he said as he placed one finger under your chin in a tender manner.

“Y-yes.”

“Tell me, what do you like most about it?” He had a very suspicious look on his face that told you that he was definitely up to no good.

“I like how thick and veiny it is, and I love seeing the pre-cum leaking out of it,” while you were telling him what you liked most about his dick you couldn’t help but look at the growing bulge in his pants.

“Hm, then since you were such a bad girl and broke into my house to steal from me…” he loosened the black tie around his neck and tied it around your eyes, “I’m not gonna let you see it.”

You couldn’t help but pout at his action, but you decided that you were gonna play along.

“Don’t pout, you’re not gonna change my mind baby. Now come here,” he safely guided off the bed and to the floor so you’d be on your knees. Seconds later you heard the sound of a zipper being open and his pants dropping to the floor. Not long after, his cock was touching your lips, “open up.”

You did as he said and started sucking him up. This time though, as opposed to last time, you could use your hands and oh boy did you take advantage of that. Not only did you pump his dick with both your hands as you worked on his tip but when you were deepthroating him you softly played with his balls.

“Oh fuck, I’m gonna cum,” he removed his dick from your mouth and came all over your face, no doubt staining his black tie.

“Did you like that baby?” you picked a drop of cum on your chin with your finger, proceeding to suck on it until it was completely clean.

“Who the fuck are you to be acting all smug? I’ll show you what’s what.” He picked you up and threw you back on the bed, immediately laying on top of you. 

As soon as you felt him rub his hard dick up and down on your wet cunt you knew exactly what he was planning. “So soon? But you just came,” you were amazed at the fact that he was already ready to go.

It was then that you felt his warm breath on your neck as he whispered, “this is Ero baby, I can go whenever and how many times I want.”

Without wasting any more time he entered you, both of you moaning in pleasure.

“Fuck Yoongi, you feel so good,” you laced your hands underneath his silk shirt and scratched his back as a reflex of the pleasure you were feeling.

It was then that he kicked it up a notch and started fucking you so fast that he could beat any kind of machine. 

“Yoongi, bite me…” you pleaded in desperation.

“My pleasure baby.” 

First, he kissed your neck to ease you into it, then he gave it a lick, and finally, he bit you. You were in such a state of trance that you practically didn’t even feel it, but just the fact that you were satisfying Yoongi’s vampire persona made you even more turned on. And because he was a vampire and was drinking your blood he was feeling more than euphoric, his hips drilling into you until the both of you came in each others embrace.

Yoongi was the first one to move after a few minutes of rest. The first thing he did was to remove your impromptu blindfold and check on your wounds. “Are you alright?”

“Yeah, I just hope these wounds won’t show up in real life-” when you looked at the place he had bitten you on your pussy you noticed that the wound was rapidly healing.

“You heal fast in here,” he said upon seeing your astonished face at the almost healed wound.

“Wow, this is amazing. And your bite, it almost didn’t hurt at all!” you noted, remembering the pleasure you felt.

“Yeah, Ero only lets you feel the levels of pain that your body can tolerate.”

“This place really is something else…”

“Indeed.”

“Hey, can I ask you something?” Something popped up on your mind, and you weren’t gonna rest until you knew the truth.

“Sure.”

“Are you real? Or are you made by Ero?” You just had to know. This question had been eating at you since the last time you were in here.

“I’m as real as they come. And you?”

“I’m also real.” 

For a moment there it seemed that you both became shy, like the implications of your questions were way more intimate than what you had just finished doing.

“Hey, I wanna say sorry for last time. I completely forgot about my safe word for a second,” he looked away in embarrassment.

“It’s okay. Was that why you picked Australopithecus as a safe word now?” You laughed.

“Yeah, I didn’t want to risk it and have me saying it again on accident.”

“I was so freaked out when I saw that, I was like ‘what kind of freak has Australopithecus as a safe word?’” you both laughed, clearly enjoying each others company.

“Hey, so…do you wanna meet in the real world or something?” Yoongi was so shy right now that you thought he looked just like a little teddy bear. Who knew a guy that fucks like him could be so adorable?

“I’d love to. I work at a coffee shop in Seoul and we make the best frappuccino-” It was then that everything went black and you knew you were the one that had fucked up this time and said the fucking safe word.

1 month had passed since you last saw Yoongi again. This time you tried to go back in Ero to find him but you were always matched with other people. You were so dead set on seeing Yoongi again that you didn’t even give those people a chance, as soon as you saw they were not him you said your safe word and went back to the real world. It was then you knew how lucky you had been the other 2 times when you got him, and now you’re probably not gonna get that lucky again.

“Hello, welcome to Aroma Mocha, what would you like?” you said at the new hooded client that had just sat at one of your tables.

“Well first, I’d like you, and second I’d like a frappuccino, someone told me that these are the best.”

When you really looked at his face and saw that it was Yoongi you almost fell to the floor. “Yoongi?”

“You’re a hard woman to find,” he said with his cute gummy smile.

“You’ve been looking for me?” you were astonished that he managed to find you, but you were oh so happy.

“Of course, I wasn’t gonna miss the opportunity of seeing you in real life.”

You were sure you were as red as a tomato now, but you were so freaking happy he was here that you really didn’t care.

“Hey listen, my shift ends in an hour. So if you want to go on a date…”

“I’d love to. I’ll come and pick you up.”

“Can’t wait,” you turned around and went to get his frappuccino, but were stopped midway by Yoongi.

“And Y/N?”

“Yes?”

“I think you should pick a better safeword.”

[lovelybones81]

Unthinkable *updated 9/3*

Summary: Seven years, three movies, two people, one story. But before they can get their happily ever after, Sebastian Stan and Camille Solis must learn to trust in each other and in themselves, before allowing the unthinkable to happen.

Warnings: Fluff, smut, Language, Angst, mental health, WOC lead character

Rating: NC-17

Note: I know it’s been a long time, my personal life got in the way. I’m trying to get back to writing because its the only thing that keeps my brain from running. Anyway- I hope I can make it up with this. It’s pretty long! xoxoxo Also if anyone is interested, I also have a wattpad!  Link below. 

https://www.wattpad.com/story/115980135-unthinkable 

Chapter 26 Without You

July 2011

The Hollywood Roosevelt, World Premiere of Captain America: The First Avenger

 Sebastian’s eyes shot open at the sound of knocking. Groaning he rolled over in the bed and reached for his phone. He grimaced when he realized he had no missed calls or messages. The knock got louder, he grunted and pushed himself up with his arms. “I’m fucking coming!” he snapped, startled by the tone of his voice. He tossed his phone unto the mattress and stumbled to the front door, rubbing his eyes with the back of his hand before he swung it open.

 His co-stars Chris Evans and Hayley Atwell stood on the other side of the door with huge smiles. Hayley spoke first. “Hi darling- were you napping?”

 He glared but took a step back to let them both into his hotel suite. He grumbled under his breath and shut the door behind them, running his fingers through his messy hair. “Does it look like I’ve been sleeping?” plopping down on the edge of the bed.

 “Well aren’t we in a lovely mood.” Hayley badgered, sitting down on the couch across from him.

 “We’ve been doing 3 days of nonstop press junket in a small room- after a while it takes a toll answering the same questions over and over.” He responded and watched Chris sit next to Hayley.

 “Bro-you act as we aren’t doing them with you.” Chris stated, speaking up for the first time and tossed one of the decorative pillows in Sebastian’s direction. 

 Sebastian was quick catching it and pushed it behind him to use for support. “I know.” He uttered and realized he might be overreacting just a bit.

 Chris was right of course, they were all in this together. They had been doing press/media junkets nonstop for the last 72 hours at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. They had seen and talked to so many press people he couldn’t keep it straight. He had done press for movies before, but never to this extreme. He knew this was a big deal-but hadn’t truly comprehended how big until this week. It was a bit nerve wracking, especially since the world premiere for the movie was set for later on that night. 

 They had been up since 5 in the morning, doing the last bit of interviews and he was exhausted. He was glad to have the rest of the afternoon off before having to get ready for later. “What are you two doing up here anyway? I thought you were going to lunch?” He asked with a yawn.  

 After their last interview, they had all gone their separate ways. Sebastian had decided to go back to his to room and try to rest before his mother arrived from New York. 

 “We are. We just figured we’d drag your sorry ass to join us.” Chris replied with half a smirk. 

 “As sweet as that invitation was-.” Sebastian said sarcastically and with a face. “I’m still waiting on my mother to get here.” Blindly reaching behind him to grip his phone. 

 “I thought you said the flight got delayed and she wasn’t going to be here until right before we headed to the red carpet?” Chris asked. 

 Sebastian felt a hint of annoyance at how well Chris paid attention. “Yeah, so?” 

 “Sooo…” Hayley cut in with a knowing look. “We know you haven’t eaten.”

 With a shake of his head he responded. “Not really hungry.” And looked back down at his phone, his heart sinking a bit at the blank screen. He tossed the phone next to him again and lifted his gaze back up to find both Chris and Hayley staring intently at him. “What?”

 “You tell us.” Hayley pushed with a raised eyebrow. “You’ve been mopey all morning.” She observed.

 Sebastian opened his mouth and then shut it. Unsure of how to answer. He knew he’d been moody, he just couldn’t pinpoint why. “Just tired.” He finally mumbled and watched from the corner of his eye as both of his friends shared a look. “If I go, will you two stop looking at me with pity?” he asked at the same time rubbing the back of his neck.

 “You’re the one with the sad puppy eyes.”

 He heard Chris snort next to Hayley and Sebastian glared. Chris’ face quickly became somber, but there was still a hint of a smile on his features. Subconsciously he peered back down toward his phone. But quickly focused his attention back on Hayley when she spoke up again.

 “Alright- whose phone call or message are you waiting on?” she probed. “Is it that girl-?” She turned to Chris. “What’s her name again?” Snapping her fingers as if doing so would help her remember.

 “Dianna.” Chris answered automatically.

 Sebastian clinched his jaw in displeasure, but didn’t say a word.

 Hayley continued, her eyes wide. “Is she the one you’re bringing tonight?”

 “You know what? I can’t wait until tonight- because that means I no longer have to deal with the both of you.” Sebastian stated cynically, but also made sure to avoid answering Hayley’s question.

 Chris rolled his eyes before gazing back to Hayley with a wiggle of his eyebrows. “Notice how he’s avoiding the question.” He mused.

 “Oh c’mon darling, we know you’ve been seeing her.” Hayley stated and pushed herself up from the couch and made her way toward Sebastian. Plopping down next him, she looped her arm through his. “And since you’re avoiding it-I guess we will be seeing her later.”

 He scowled. “Not that it’s any of your business- but the only person I’m bringing tonight- is my mother.” And that was the truth.

 “Then what’s going with you and Dianna?” she pushed, playfully elbowing him.

 “Nothing. We’ve gone out on one date.” His blurted out without thinking. Quickly regretting the fact he shared any dating information with Hayley. In his defense it had been brought up in casual conversation and mentioned it without realizing it.

 “Is she going to be at the after party?” Chris asked.

 “No.” Sebastian answered. “She’s not even in LA right now.” Why couldn’t he keep his mouth shut again?

 “What? This is big deal and she isn’t here to support you?” Hayley gaped.

 “It’s not like she’s my girlfriend. We’ve literally gone out on one date. The other times we’ve been around other people.” He muttered annoyed.  “And- she did send a text to wish me good luck.” He defended. “Unlike some other people…” he mumbled under his breath, his heart aching all of a sudden.

 “Ahh.” Chris said knowingly. “Now it makes sense.”

 “What does?” Hayley asked, giving Sebastian a long look.

 “Nothing.” Sebastian said quickly, as he gave Chris a warning look.

 “No contact with her yet?” Chris asked.

 Sebastian gave a slight shake of his head and lifted himself up off the bed, reaching for Hayley’s arm instead, hoping they were done with this conversation. “C’mon Hayles-.”

 “Wait-no. What I am missing here?” she asked, looking between both men.

 Chris shrugged and stood up, not saying a word. The room was silent for a few minutes, as Sebastian searched for his shoes and fidgeted with his cell phone. Fine, so maybe he could pinpoint why he hadn’t been in the best mood all morning. But he didn’t want to say it out loud, because he was sure it sounded ridiculous.

 He cleared his throat. “Are we going to go…?”

 “No.” Hayley declared. “Not until I figure out what’s going on. Because obviously it’s ruining today.”

 Sebastian frowned down at her, his jaw set, but did not answer.

 “Who isn’t here, but should be?” Chris asked slowly.

 Hayley scrunched up her nose in concentration, evident she was racking her brain. After a few moments, her eyes widen and looked back up at Sebastian. “It’s about a 20 hour difference.” Looking down at her wrist watch. “She’s probably just now getting up.” She defended. “If it makes you feel any better I haven’t heard from her either. I sent her a text this morning, but I haven’t gotten a response since we spoke last night-our time of course.”

 Sebastian felt his heart sink at Hayley’s words. He hadn’t heard from Camille in 4 days. She had told him, she was going to be working long hours during the weekend and probably wouldn’t be able to talk much. “I haven’t heard from her since Thursday afternoon. It’s Monday.” Sebastian muffled, deciding to just give in and talk about it. It was taking more energy to not say anything. 

 She had been gone for over 4 months now and they had kept in contact throughout that time, whether it was text/email or even video chatting. Their schedules were so busy that it was hard at times, especially with the time difference- but they had managed. The vow to keep their hands to themselves was working wonders since they were literally thousands of miles apart. It wasn’t a topic they discussed when they did talk, it didn’t seem necessary. They both knew were things stood and both were okay with it…

 Or at least that’s what Sebastian hoped. They hadn’t discussed the boundaries of sharing with each other if they decided to see other people, but figured honesty was the best policy, until they talked about it. That’s why he had made the decision to mention it the last time they spoke about his date.

 His heartbeat picked up at the thought. What if that’s why she hadn’t responded? He ran back through their conversation from Thursday in his head. She hadn’t acted as if it bother her, especially when he told her it was a date that was set up by friends. If there was one thing he had come to learn about Camille-was her lack of a poker face.

 But what if he was wrong?

 “C’mon man, we’ve been there. Long days, turning into longer nights.” Chris tried to reason as he rubbed his hand over his beard.

 Sebastian knew Chris was right, but he couldn’t help but feel the anxiety that maybe she was upset with him. Especially if she had been in contact with Hayley the day before.

 He was trying to act as if it was not a big deal, since no one, besides her sister, wife and Charles knew about what had happened between them in Big Sur and even then, they hadn’t confirmed anything.

 He cleared his throat and ran his fingers through his hair tensely. “Yeah...” Was all he uttered and turned to Hayley. “You know what? I’ am hungry now.” He stated with a small smile. Hoping his friends would get the hint and drop the subject.  

 Hayley smiled back and looped her arm through his, picking up that he was done talking about it. “Good, let’s go. I’m starving.”  

                                                                                                  ***

Sebastian tossed the cigarette bud into the trash can at the same time he stepped back into his suite after being out in the balcony. He was about to reach for his third cigarette when his phone vibrated on the bed. He peered over at it, deciding to ignore it and grabbed the lighter instead. He wasn’t in the mood to talk to anyone, especially when in a few hours he was going to be surrounded by a hundred of them. The phone stopped vibrating-but it was only for a second before it started back up again. It vibrated a few more times, then stopped.

 After a few seconds, the phone beeped. Whoever it was had left a voicemail. He knew it wasn’t his mother, she had sent a message right before he sat down to lunch with Chris and Hayley, letting him know she was about to board the plane. Letting out a dejected sigh, he bend down and grasped the phone and scowled. It wasn’t a voicemail- it was a text- from Charles. He rolled his eyes even before reading the message.

 Charles: Answer the damn phone.

 Sebastian rolled his eyes again, ready to toss the phone back on the bed when it vibrated in his hand, Charles name blinking back at him. He’s fingers were slow to pick up the call, it stopped. But before Sebastian even thought about putting it back down, another text came through.

 Charles: I’ll just keep calling until you answer.

 And that’s exactly what he did. The phone rang again. Sebastian knew better than to fight this. He groaned and put the phone to his ear. “What’s so urgent?” he grumbled.

 Charles chuckled dryly. “Well aren’t you in a good mood this afternoon.” Sebastian made a face even though his best friend couldn’t see it. “What stick is up your ass?” he added.

 “What do you want Charles?” Sebastian demanded, avoiding the question.

 His best friend let out a dramatic sigh. “I just needed to know what time I should get to the hotel later.”  

 Sebastian clenched his jaw, and let out a breath through his nose. “Was that really your emergency?”  If he knew Charles was going to be acting weird, he would not have invited him to the premiere.  

 “Oh no.” Charles stated casually. Then there was a long pause.

 “Charles!” Sebastian exclaimed impatiently after about 30 seconds of neither one speaking.

 “Hmm?” Charles answered obviously distracted.

 “I’m gonna hang up now.”

 “Dude, calm down.” Charles ordered steadily. “I need you to go open the door.” He added. Sebastian removed the phone from his ear and gave it a ‘what the hell?’ look. “Just go open the damn door.” Charles repeated.  

 “Charles- I swear if this is one of your stupid pranks, I’m seriously not in the mood-“

 “Yeah, I know you aren’t in the mood. Everyone around you today has said the same thing.” Charles said sarcastically. Sebastian opened his mouth to ask how he knew this, but Charles beat him to it. “Trust me- this will make up for it.”

 He hesitantly took a step in the direction of the door. What the hell was Charles up to? “What did you do?” he pushed and placed his hand on the door knob.

 “Nothing!” Charles responded in an offended tone. “Did you open the door yet?”

 “No.”

 “Open.the.fucking.door.” He ordered, enunciating each word.

 Sebastian turned the knob. “Are you already here? Is this why you’re acting more annoying than usual?” As he pulled the door open absent-mindedly. “Because my mom is going to be here and I really don’t feel like-.” Stopping mid-sentence, his brain unable to form words all of a sudden.

 Charles chuckled lightly. “I’m assuming you finally opened the door.” Sebastian opened and then shut his mouth, words not coming out. His best friend snickered on the other line. “I told you this was would make up for it. Oh and you’re welcome. I’ll see you later.” Then there was a click, indicating he had just hung up.

 “Hola, Ojos Azules- are you just gonna stand there and stare? Or are you going to let me in?” Camille’s soft voice asked cheekily, a huge grin on her beautiful features. She stood a few feet away from him, in a pair of dark jeans and buttoned down yellow blouse, beautiful melanin skin glowing against the material. Her normal curls straighten and down to her shoulders.  

 Fuck, was she really standing in-front of him? Regardless, he took a small step back, unsure of what else to do or say. 

 “Cierra la boca si no las moscas se meten.” She teased in Spanish, as she stepped into the suite and turned her back to him to shut the door.

 He had no idea what she had just said, but his brain cells rapidly returned. He swiftly moved behind her. She let out a small gasp in surprise when she came face to chest. He narrowed his eyes down. “Is this why you hadn’t responded to my messages?” he accused, things slowly clicking in his head.

 Camille looked up at him through her lashes, an innocent smile on her face. “Did you really think I would miss this?” Hesitantly placing the palms of her hands on his chest, as if unsure if she could touch him.

 “Well…I hadn’t heard from you in days-.”

 “Were you worried?” she interrupted in a teasing tone and moved her hands up and down his chest gently.

 A sense of relief hitting the pit of his stomach at how easily they were able to go back to their teasing ways- even after 4 months. He couldn’t keep his eyes off her face. “Actually- I kind of thought you were mad at me.” He admitted and placed his hands on top of hers. His heart swelling with the familiar emotions every time he was around her.

 Camille wrinkled her forehead in confusion. “Mad at you?”

 Sebastian was barely paying attention to her words, instead he gently cupped her face, her skin soft against his fingers. “It doesn’t matter now.” He muttered.

 But she wasn’t dropping it. “Why would I be mad at you?” Giving him a suspicious look. “What did you do Sebastian Stan-?”

 “Camille-.” He interrupted.

 “What?” she snapped and lifted her chin at the same time scrunching her nose.

 “Shut up.” She scowled in response. “And let me kiss you.” He finished softly and dropped his hands from her face, as their noses touched. A shaky breath escaped her lips, but she tried to mask it with a glare. Sebastian caught it and smirked. “I don’t have to-.” 

 She rolled her eyes, before she chewed on her bottom lip. He closed his eyelids and nuzzled his nose to hers. She let out another choppy breath. “I-I uh just...” trailing off. 

 Fuck-he’d missed her. 

 “Yeah? Me too.” He mocked, though he had no idea what she was talking about.

 “You think you’re so funny Stan-.” 

 But didn’t get a chance to finish the sentence as Sebastian mouth touched Camille’s, brushing lightly over her bottom lip. A tiny sigh escaped her, before he completely covered her mouth with his. His hands glided up and behind her neck, angling it a bit to get better access. He needed to taste her again. He smiled against her lips when he felt her hands wrap loosely around his waist to tug him close. Sebastian took it as a sign and trailed his hands down to her hips. Recklessly but slowly he led her backwards so she was pressed up against the wall closest to the door. He broke the kiss temporarily to make sure he hadn’t hurt her as they moved. She responded quickly and didn’t wait for him to kiss her, but devoured his lips with her own, sucking on his tongue and moving her mouth against his.

 They continued to attack each other in a frenzy, as if their lives depended on it for the next few minutes. He eventually clutched harder on her covered torso as her fingers clasped the front of his shirt and jerked him harder to her warm body, initiating a light bang sound on the wall.

 Quickly he pulled away from her mouth and looked down at her with concern. “Are you okay?” Moving one hand behind her head in protectiveness while the other hand stroked the skin on her arm. The familiar glossy look he come to love back in her eyes.

 “Mmm, mmm yeah.” She responded and nipped eagerly on his lower lip.

 He snickered. “Are you sure?” But pressed his chest to her breasts. His fingers aching to touch more. Her usual smell of vanilla and shea butter invading his nostrils. He dipped down and licked the side of her neck, not waiting for a response. “So does this mean we’re picking up where we left off?” he murmured amusingly into her skin. Instinctively, she grasped unto his bicep and let out a tiny sigh. Sebastian nibbled along the collarbone and she shivered. “I’ll take that as a yes…” he whispered and glided one hand downward to the dip of her spine, then to one covered ass cheek.

 Camille whined in shock at his sudden move, but it swiftly turned into a low moan when he rubbed then squeezed smoothly.

 “God, I’ve missed…this…” he grunted against her lips. “…ass.” Then kissed her hard to keep her from saying another word.

 After a few seconds, she pulled away and scowled. “And here I thought you were going to say you missed me.” 

 He gave her a light peck, then chuckled lowly. “I mean it is part of you.” He reasoned, unable to stop his hands from clutching again as he attached his mouth back to her clavicle and sucked right where she liked it. She stirred and tossed her head back. He smiled against her skin. He hit his mark. He sucked again and she whimpered.  

 “You’re-you’re distracting m-me…” she stuttered but angled her neck more to give him better access.

 “I know.” Sebastian admitted and nibbled a few moments longer before he pressed his lips back on hers. And for the next ten minutes not a single world was said between them as they familiarized themselves back with their lips and hands. They kissed, nipped, licked and groped in a frenzy, unable to get enough of each other. It felt as if their bodies and mind knew they had 4 months to catch up on. 

 Somehow they made it toward the loveseat, still tangled in each other’s arms. Sebastian stumbled backwards onto the cushions and Camille took the opportunity to straddle him. He let out a small grunt and she raised an eyebrow. He smiled wickedly up at her then tugged her face towards his. As their lips locked once more, his hands desperately moved to the first button of her blouse.

 “Well aren’t we in a hurry?” Camille teased beside his mouth, but rubbed her firm ass against his thighs.

 He pressed a soft kiss to her forehead and confessed. “I just can’t believe you’re really here.” His heart thumping rapidly within his chest.

 “So…is this better than a text?” she asked boldly, those beautiful brown eyes dancing with mischief.  

 His eyes grew wide, when her words registered in his brain. “They told you about that?” His cheeks warm. She nodded. “Wait-they knew about this?” he asked in an annoyed tone.

 Giggling, she nodded again and gently brushed one of his brows with her fingertips. “Everyone kind of did.” 

 “Ma?” 

 She pursed her lips to keep from laughing. “I talked to her this morning.” 

 “Huh.” Not sure of what else to say, but absently continued to play with the blouse button.

 She got him good. He had not been expecting her. He knew she been working long hours and when he’d mentioned the premiere a month ago, her respond was: she wished she could be there, but work was not going to allow the time. He had been bummed- but if anyone understood, it was him. 

 He playfully glared but glided his large hands down her torso. A small yelp left her lips when his fingers began to tickle. 

 She laughed loudly and squirmed in his lap. “Sebastian! Stop!” Her laughter echoing throughout the room. “You know I hate being tickled.” She reminded, almost out of breath. “Sebbb.” She begged. 

 Finally, he stopped his torture and kissed her. She stirred and he sucked in a large breath when she spread her legs wider and her covered mound came in contact with his now growing erection. 

 They teased each other for a few longer moments; his hands back on her ass, unable to keep from touching and squeezing, while she used her hips to grind into him. 

 Damn- he had something important to say but could not concentrate. He realized they needed to discuss...

 But it was hard to think straight when her hips kept moving the way they were. He swallowed the lump in his throat. “Camille...”

 “Hmm?” she answered distractedly as she sucked on his lower lip, before she trailed her lips down his neck. She moaned into his ear as she grinded herself into him again.

 “About what I said to Hayles and Chris…” he started, trying his best to keep the focus, clutching tightly on her hip. Camille lifted her head abruptly and gave him a confused look. He could feel his cheeks burning as he thought back to earlier in the day and how he might have been a bit of an ass to his friends.  

 Camille quirked her eyebrow for a moment, taking in his words. Slowly she realized what he meant. “There’s nothing to say or apologize for.” And stopped grinding into him. Sebastian’s heart began to race at her words. She must have sense his sudden agitation because she nuzzled her nose to his with a small smile. “Is that why you thought I was mad at you?”

 He shifted in his spot, his hands still on her body, her behind snuggled perfectly into his lap. He licked his dry lips. “Not… necessarily.” He said weakly, not meeting her gaze and feeling like a damn teenage boy all of a sudden at how he lost all common sense when she was around.

 “Hmm.” Camille started and wrapped her arms around his neck. “Could this have anything to do with your date?” At her words, he jerked his attention back on her. She wrinkled her nose in amusement. She moved and spread her thighs but leaned back a bit to look at him through her long lashes. “Seb- baby relax.” Rubbing the top of his shoulders soothingly. “We never talked about it. It’s not like we established any rules about us not seeing other people.” Ducking her head down to give him a sweet peck on the lips. He raised both eyebrows in astonishment. “What?” She asked nervously now. 

 “You’re kind of amazing you know that?” He murmured, his hands moving up and down on her spine. 

 “I mean I wouldn’t have let you kiss me if I thought you were seeing someone-.” And stopped to give a suspicious look. “You aren’t, right? It’s not like she’s your girlfriend-?”

 “Why? Would you be jealous?” He couldn’t help but ask with a smirk. 

 She rolled her eyes and scoffed. “No. But you would be getting an elbow to your junk.” She stated in a matter of fact tone. 

 “Such violence.” Sebastian teased in between chuckles. Feeling a little less anxious about things, now that she was there with him. He realized she was such as unsure of things as he was. But one thing was for sure- and it was that he would never be the type of man who could cheat. He slipped his arms around her waist and tugged her softly to him. “Come here.” He started with a grin. “No- she isn’t my girlfriend. We’ve been out once.” He confirmed and nestled his face into her hair. He could understand her uneasiness. If he was seeing someone seriously, their current position would not be appropriate. Sebastian continued. “We’ve talked a few times. She texted a bit earlier-.”

 “To wish good luck right?” she mumbled with a squint of her eyes.

 Sebastian felt his heart flutter and lifted his head back up. “So you are jealous.” He accused, eyes dancing with glee.

 Camille’s jaw dropped, eyes wide. “I didn’t say uh- t-that.” She stammered but ran her fingers through his hair.

 “Uh huh.” She stirred in his lap and moved one hand to the back of his neck. “I mean it’s okay if you are-.”

 “You talk too much.” She interrupted and swiftly covered his mouth with hers, her body unconsciously arched up and moaned. He squeezed her hip tight as his tongue teased hers.

 The conversation forgotten as they continued their attack on each other. Lips, hands everywhere again. This went on for a few more moments. His hands itched to touch more of her skin. He blindly found the buttons on her blouse and began to delicately undue each one. His skin feeling as if it was on fire. The need for her unexplainable. He was down to the second to last button when he heard a sudden knock on his door.

 He jerked his hand and mouth back at the same time. He groaned in frustration. This would happen. He peered back and she bit down on her lower lip, ready to push off of him. Sebastian was quick and gripped her elbow, getting a good peek of her yellow bra. “Maybe they’ll think I’m not here?” He whispered, afraid that whoever was on the other side would hear him. 

 Camille giggled and tapped his chin indicating for him to look her. “We aren’t that lucky.” 

 And almost as if on cue, they heard another knock. He shut his eyes for a split second, but not before the third knock. He sighed in aggravation and opened them back up to find Camille giving him an almost pity look. “Do I have to?” He whined like a child. 

 “Yes baby.” She calmly answered at the same she got up from his lap.

 Groaning loudly, he followed her lead. Begrudgingly he made his way toward the door but not before he looked over his shoulder to Camille buttoning the blouse back up. Letting out one last displeased grunt, he unlocked the door and found his manager, Emily. 

 “Hey!” She greeted happily. 

 He forced a smile. Any other time he would have been happy to see her, but not at that precise moment. 

 She didn’t wait for him to say a word, instead she strutted into the room and continued to talk. “So I was thinking-.” But gasped when she spotted Camille sitting on the couch. “You made it!” Quickly walking toward and engulfing her in a hug. 

 Sebastian shut the door and looked between both women. “You knew?” 

 Emily pulled away from Camille and winked. “Who do you think booked her flight?” 

 Camille snickered and reminded. “I told you everyone knew.” 

                                                                                                  ***

An hour and a half later, Camille stepped back to let Sebastian into her hotel room. She had left his room to start getting ready for the premiere. She smiled genuinely and leaned in to peck him on the lips. “Hey.” She greeted closing the door behind them, as she played with the slash of the white robe wrapped around her body.

 “Hi.” Sebastian answered but peered down to his phone when it beeped. Blindly, he strutted toward the back of the couch, his attention on the phone screen. “Sorry.” He mumbled and peeked a look at her. “Mom just got into LAX.”  

 Camille beamed. “I can’t wait to see her! Did she make it okay?” 

 “Yea. She’s getting her luggage. It’s probably going to take her another hour to get to the hotel with this traffic.” Sebastian stated, leaning against the couch. 

 “I can wait for her, if you have to leave before she gets here.” Camille offered, nervously tugging on the collar of the robe. 

 Sebastian smiled gratefully and placed his phone on the edge of the couch. “Thank you. I hate the idea of her roaming around by herself. Especially since my stepdad couldn’t make it.” 

 “Are you still dragging him to the London premiere?” Camille teased and turned toward the bathroom. She had been in the process of doing her eyeliner when he knocked. 

 “First of all- I’m not dragging him.” Sebastian protested and followed, leaning his whole body against the door frame, arms across his chest. 

 Camille snickered and winked before she leaned into the counter to get her other eye. She had come to learn how important Anthony- Georgeta’s husband was to Sebastian. It was cute actually. “Is he excited about it?” She asked instead. 

 “Yeah.” He said with a grin. “It’ll be cool. This will be his first movie premiere and I’m glad he gets to enjoy at least one of them since he can’t be here tonight.” 

 Camille stopped for a split moment with the eyeliner pencil and sincerely smiled through the mirror. “I’m glad.” Then focused back on her makeup.  

 “I still can’t believe mom knew about you coming and kept it to herself.” 

 “That’s because I told her this morning.” Camille confessed finishing up with the eyeliner. Giving herself a once over she turned her attention toward him. Her pulse accelerating when she realized those deep blue eyes were already boring into her.

 “You’re pretty good at that.” He mused and rubbed a hand behind his neck. 

 Camille wrinkled her nose. “I better be- seeing that it’s my livelihood.” Her hands fretfully rubbing on the material of the robe. 

 To say Camille hadn’t been nervous about his reaction to her surprise visit was the understatement of the year. Throughout the whole flight, anxiety had taken over her thoughts. What if he didn’t care? What if she showed up and he had a date? (Even though Charles had insisted otherwise) They hadn’t talked about boundaries when they decided to sleep together 4 months prior.

 She had so many questions…

 Originally she had not been able to get the days off, but after a few schedule changes it had worked out. She mentioned it to Charles via text and he been the one with the idea of surprising Sebastian. Charles had been the one to contact Emily and then everything else fell into place. At first she’d been hesitant, afraid he was taking someone besides his mom to the premiere. She didn’t want to intrude, if he did happen to have a date. Charles must have picked up on it and reassured that wasn’t the case.

 Obviously being able to kiss and hold Sebastian wasn’t the only reason she wanted to go to the event, but it was a perk. And she wasn’t going to do that if he was seriously seeing someone. 

 He unfolded his arms and made the motion toward her, but stopped when his phone rang. He sighed before giving an apologetic look. “It’s probably mom.” 

 Camille gave a small nod of her head and he took that as an indication that it was okay. Once he had disappeared out of the bathroom, Camille went back to her makeup. After a few extra minutes, she felt satisfied with the way she looked and reached for the setting spray to finish the look. She glanced once more at herself through the mirror and blew a raspberry though her nose, butterflies filling her belly in excitement and jitters for the night. She flipped the light off and made her way out of the bathroom, determined to try and just enjoy the next 36 hours with him.

 She felt her heart flutter when her eyes landed on him. He stood at the end of the couch, in jeans and plain white shirt, full attention placed on his phone. How did he make something so simple look so good?

 “What did Georgeta say?” Taking a step in his direction.

 Lifting his head, they locked eyes for a split moment. “She just got into baggage claim. I let her know, I probably wouldn’t see her until she got to the theater.” Glancing back down at his phone with a small frown. “Sorry.” He mumbled distractedly. “Emily keeps sending me different times for these next interviews coming up.” Licking his bottom lip tensely and running his fingers through his hair.

 Camille felt her heart squeeze, watching him. It didn’t take a genius to see how nervous he was about the next few hours. Hell, she would be too. During their phone calls/text he had expressed how worried he was at messing anything up during the promotion of the movie. She had tried to do her best to just listen and let him vent, just like he had one plenty of times for her. So it was no surprise to see him a bit agitated. All of this seemed overwhelming and she wasn’t the one in the spotlight.

 Biting her own lip, and letting an uneven breath, she placed her fingers on the slash of the robe, deciding it was now or never. She had meant to do this later on in the evening, but it looked like he could use a diversion…

 “Seb?”

 “Hmm?” he responded without looking up from the phone.

 “I need your help with something.”

 “With what dragoste?” His forehead wrinkled in concentration.

 “I need help deciding what to wear tonight.” The boost of confidence she had a few seconds ago rapidly deflating like a balloon as he kept his focus on the phone, deciding to nix her little plan. Then quickly changed her mind again when she observed him stir uncomfortably in the spot. Camille could feel his anxiety and realized this wasn’t about her- but about him. Taking another small step. “I’m trying to decide which color would be better.” She murmured nonchalantly as her fingers tugged on the slash again.

 “What are the options?” he asked absentmindedly, his fingers swiftly texting.

 If she wasn’t so sure he was ignoring her on purpose, she would have thrown a pillow at his head- but knew it wasn’t the case.

 “It’s between a red and this blue I have on.” She mused, untying the robe and pushing it down onto her shoulders, heart beating. “What do you think?” 

 It felt like forever, but finally he looked up and over at her and blinked a few times as if trying to get his brain to register. His eyes did a double take when he realized what she was wearing. He swallowed hard and tossed his phone on the couch, those blue arises now a shade darker. 

 Camille hid the smirk as he took a step in her direction and let the rest of the robe fall to the floor and pool around her feet. “What do you think?” She repeated. The reaction he had giving her the confidence to continue. She might have done some lingerie shopping before she left New Zealand. She still wasn’t sure where the idea had come from, but decided it would be fun to tease him a bit- especially after 4 months.

 She wore a two piece blue color lacy lingerie set with garter belt and stockings to match.

 “Okay- you have my attention.” Sebastian stated gruffly, his eyes lingering up and down her body.

 Blinking harmlessly, she tilted her head to one side. “I just need help deciding which color to wear.” But thanked the stars above for the girlfriend who had suggested the blue. She had needed support in her little venture and brought along one of the girls she worked with.

 “I need a better look.” Sticking his tongue out onto one side of his mouth, his gaze almost hungry as it landed back on her cleavage.

 Camille bit down on her lower lip and took a small step backwards, her face somber. “No silly, you need to see it from afar to give me your opinion.” She mocked, putting one hand out, pretending to keep him at arm’s length.

 He quirked an eyebrow. “Is that so?” Moving closer at the same time his fingers grasped her wrist softly.

 “Uh huh.” She responded with a nod and another step back, trying to look as innocent as possible, even with the lingerie. She took a few more steps back and lurched forward for a split second, when her almost bare behind came in contact with the thick cold glass console table, closets to the bathroom wall.

 “Be careful dragoste.” He whispered, letting go of her wrist, a smirk on that handsome face. The sexual tension crackling throughout the room. “Don’t want you falling-especially in that outfit.” His pupils dilated, a hand coming up to cup one side of her cheek. “Did you plan this too?” He asked in an amused tone. 

 Camille gave a slight shake of head. “No.” Trying her best to stifle her giggles, but it was no use, her mouth had a mind of its own. 

 “So you didn’t plan on wearing this for me to see?” He pushed, nostril flaring, his eyes devouring her form. 

 “Not until tonight -but it seemed like you needed a distraction right now.” Pursing her lips and inched closer. A slight shiver down her spine when his large hand slid from her cheek to the base of her neck. Her stomach tightening in anticipation. 

 He cleared his throat and lowered his head to get a better look. “Jesus-you’re even wearing the garter belt.” 

 “It’s the set Sebastian. It came with the bra and thong...” she explained, batting her eyelashes. Baiting him. She watched his jaw clinch and felt the familiar throb between her thighs. Pulling her bottom lip between her teeth, she blindly maneuvered one hand behind the table for support.

 His eyes narrowed and landed on her barely covered breasts. “Blue looks good on you.” He grunted. Camille raised a suspicious eyebrow, and purposely exhaled, her cleavage in full view for his eyes.

 Before she had a chance to continue speaking, Sebastian leaned in and touched his lips with hers. She hummed and shut her eyes when his warm mouth moved against hers. She reached out and clutched his shirt, the other hand going to the side of his face to pull him close. God, she’d missed him. She felt his thumb press into the side of her face to steady and ravage her mouth. Camille felt the heat rush through her as his lips left hers and trailed kisses along her jaw at the same time his large hand moved from her face, down to her bare arms, then torso, before it glided down to the dip of her back. Camille whimpered when he grazed a fingertip along the thong material that barely covered her behind.

 Damn, he was good. She was the one who was supposed to be seducing him. 

 She opened her mouth to speak but only a squeak slipped out when his hand lingered lower and lower and clutched an ass cheek. She quickly recovered and gave him a haughty look when he squeezed again. “What? You didn’t believe me?” 

 “I had to make sure.” The palm of his hand rubbing on her warm skin. “You did say you would only wear these when I was around.” He reminded smugly. 

 “Sebastian!!” Camille gasped in disbelief when he tugged the thin material between her ass cheeks upward. Yet, felt the wetness between her thighs. Her heart raced and let out a choppy breath when his hand proceeded to cup between her thighs “Baby...” she licked her lips. “I was supposed to be distracting you.”  The tone of her voice serious.

 “Oh- you are Camille.” He said gruffly, gingerly letting his fingers tease. He sucked roughly on her lower lip at the same time his fingernails delved into her flesh. She jerked in surprise and looked up at him wide eyed. His features soften. “Was that too much?” he asked, wrinkling his forehead.

 She smiled warmly up, thankful that he was the type of man who still felt the need to ask for consent during moments like these. It made her feel safe. “No.” She responded with a shake of her head. “It just took me by surprise.” Stroking one side of his face with her knuckles, to assure him.

 “I can stop-.”

 Camille pushed herself up on her tip-toes and gently nibbled on his bottom lip, to stop him from finishing the sentence. He exhaled loudly. “I like it a bit rough…” she confessed against his mouth, with a slight smile.

 “Oh really?” he probed and nipped back, his large hand clenching again.

 “Uh huh.” Kissing him hard.

 “In that case-.” He growled and pulled away from her. Suddenly she was spinning, the hand on the back of her neck again, as Sebastian bent her over, Camille’s chest flat against the glass table. She had not been expecting this, but she was not opposed to it either. Licking her lips, Camille purposely wiggled behind him. 

 “Hmmm, I need a closer look to give you a better opinion...” 

 Camille peered over one shoulder, a satisfied feeling coming over when she watched Sebastian’s eyes move up and down her form. Standing behind and licking those soft his lips she had come to like so much. 

 “Fuck-this is beautiful.” He murmured-mesmerized. And to show exactly what he was talking about, he used the palm of his hand to caress one ass cheek. Camille tensed, not sure what to expect next. She felt him lean in, his breath on her neck. “Anytime this doesn’t feel right- just say the word, okay?” The tone in his voice soft and sincere. 

 Camille nodded in response. 

 “Good.” Brushing his soft lips with hers. Her body and mouth reacted to his touch and kissed him back. She was so consumed with his mouth, she hadn’t realized he had flatten her arms out on the table, before he pulled away. 

 “Seb?” She questioned in a small voice. The ache for him growing with each second.  

 “I got you doll.” 

 “Don’t call me doll-.” She snapped, but stopped when she felt a finger stroke up her covered mound.  

 He snickered. “You were saying?”

 She should have known he said it on purpose. By this time, her cheek was pressed against the cool glass and all she could do was stir in the spot. If she wasn’t aroused, she would have rolled her eyes. Instead she panted hard and watched her breath fog up the glass her cheek rested on. Swallowing, Camille’s eyes slid shut when a long finger pushed the thong to the side and stroked along her most sensitive flesh and rubbed her clit in small circles before finally dipping the fingertip into the warmth of her. She moaned and tilted her hips up. Sebastian took that as a sign to continue and pressed his finger in up to first knuckle.

 “Oh god…”

 “Mmm, a tight fit.” Sebastian tormented. “Damn baby…you’re already so wet for me.”

 He was right. There was no denying. She was surprised how quickly it had happened. “Sebastian��” she moaned.

 “Do you want the second finger?” he asked huskily. Camille nodded eagerly. “Use your words Camille.”

 “Yes… I want the second finger.”

 He didn’t say another word, instead carefully slid his middle and forefinger together.

 “Hmm, Seb.” She panted and moved her hips against his hand. A tiny gasp left her mouth when he gently forced the palm of his other hand on the dip of her back to keep her from moving. “Mmmm, yes…” she purred in pleasure when he eased the fingers out and then back in for a few long moments. Over and over, he tortured her, every so often swirling his finger over her clit.

 “Is that good?”

 “Yes.” Camille croaked out.

 “Spread your legs a little more for me baby.” Sebastian coaxed.

 She did what he asked and spread them, but whined in disappointment when he eased the finger out of her. 

 “I can look at you this way for hours.” He confessed. “Is this what you wanted? Huh? To have me bend you over so I could play?” 

 Camille felt the tightness in her stomach at his words. She could only imagine what she looked like, bent over the table in a bra and thong, ass out, Sebastian’s fingers playing in her. 

 She jerked when he leaned in and trailed his hand along the apex of her thighs, then ran his palm over her mound. She sucked in her breath, a raspy sound that turned into a sigh when his finger slid along the center of her, sinking into wet heat once more. Unable to control it, she began to rock her hips into his fingers. 

 He chuckled lowly. “So impatient.” But stroked in and out, over and over, faster and deeper. Giving exactly what she needed, legs feeling like jelly. Instinctively she squeezed her thighs around his hand. 

 “Please...” She mewled, needing a release. She was slick, her body quivered. 

 “Keep your legs apart.” He ordered softly. But she couldn’t, instead they drifted closer together. “Camille...” he warned. She wasn’t listening, not when he was torturing her in pure bliss. 

 She was about to argue, when his large hand came down hard on one ass cheek. “Oh my god!” She exclaimed in astonishment. 

 “I told you to keep them apart.” But gently massaged where he’d spanked. 

 “This is just an excuse for you to slap my ass.” Camille retorted. At that comment, she felt the palm of his hand slap again. She swallowed the moan and tried to hide the smug smile off her face. 

 Okay, fine. She liked it. And she knew talking back was the way to get what she wanted. 

 “Does that feel good?” He growled. She only nodded. “What did I say about using your words dragoste?” He reminded sternly and smacked the other bare cheek-harder that time. 

 The whack! Sound echoing in her ears. She shifted slightly- that one stung, but it felt good. Before she was able to put another thought together, his hand came back down on her flesh. 

 “Oh fuck!” Camille croaked out. Then sucked in a large breath when he soothed the sting of the slap.

 “I’ve missed being able to touch you this way.” He admitted. He pressed his chest to her back and peppered kisses along her neck and behind her ear. Camille shivered and sighed. “God- you’re so beautiful.” He breathed. “Everything about you...” 

 Camille panted, but felt her heart burst at his words. “Baby, please....please...” She stammered. 

 “Do you wanna cum?” He asked, nipping on her earlobe. 

 “Y-yes. Please Sebastian.” She pleaded. 

 He stood straight up and slid both fingers back into her and moaned. “Damn, you’re so fucking hot.” 

 After that-no other words were needed, Sebastian continued his attack. He pressed deeper with his fingers. He caught her clit between his thumb and forefinger and rubbed up and down, squeezing his fingers together to increase the pressure and sensation on her. 

 Camille cried out, her pleasure growing, repeating his name over and over again. Her body jerked for a second, but then she started riding his fingers. Over and over he whispered words of praise as he drove her crazy with his magical touch. At the same time, his other hand squeezed and spanked her bare skin. She shakenly wet her lips with her tongue and felt her body temperature rise, feeling the orgasm begin to build with every methodical stroke Sebastian made. In and out he slid those long digits, the pleasure seeping through her pores. This went on for a while, until Camille felt her muscles tighten around him. 

 “Let it go baby. I’m right here. I got you.” Sebastian pushed gently. “I want to feel you cum all over my fingers.” The pace of his stroke, easing when he realized she was close. 

 And damn-she was. She let out a short gasp and twitched slightly, finally allowing her body to give in to the orgasm. It was a good thing they were alone, with all the noises she was making. She screamed and begged, her whole body in goosebumps as he brought her over the edge. Wave, after wave, her hot body convulsed in pure ecstasy.  

 With her face still pressed on the glass table, Camille tried to catch her breath. All she could hear at the moment was the beat of her heart in her chest. 

 “Dios mio.” 

 He sniggered. “Really?” But then asked in concern. “Are you okay?”  As he eased the fingers out of her. 

 A slight shiver ran thought when he gingerly cupped her mound. “Y-Yeah. Totally.” She stumbled. 

 “You sure?” He asked playfully. 

 “Yes, of course.” She mumbled and lazily lifted her head up from the table. 

 “Okay... good. Because we aren’t done yet.” 

 And at those words, his hot mouth sucked softly along the top of her shoulders, before they trailed down her spine-every so often his teeth nipping along the skin. 

 Camille dropped her head back down on the cold table and breathed heavy as his lips continued their tortuously attack on her. She shut her eyelids when his tongue licked along the dip of her back, leaving a wet trail along the way. This went on for the next few minutes, almost as if Sebastian knew she needed to catch her breath. She licked her dry lips a few times before she finally lifted her head and peered back at him.

 “So, is this a yes on this one?” Camille teased after she gathered her thoughts.

 Sebastian abruptly stopped at the question and narrowed his eyes up at her. “I’m not done yet.” He countered, his lips hovering right along the curve of her ass. Without taking his eyes off her, he gradually leaned in and nibble her warm flesh, while his free hand massaged the other.

 An almost purr like sound left her mouth at his action. Fuck, this whole thing with him at the moment was sexy as hell. She didn’t want it to end.

 “Seb?”

 “Yeah baby?” He answered, but it was fairly obvious he was preoccupied, both hands glided up to her hips. “Mmm, let’s take these off.” His fingertips gingerly tugging down on the lacy thong.

 Camille swallowed and wiggled her hips slightly to help him. She felt the tip of his fingers along the back of her thighs, then down her legs. She watched as he lowered himself to his knees, shoulders tensed, one knee on the floor, the other bent as he studied her, his hot breath blowing across her clit. She heaved, damn he was going to make her orgasm again wasn’t he?

 And as if reading her mind, he tenderly exposed her vulva with his thumbs. She opened her mouth but nothing came out. 

 “Oh baby...” he hissed. “Look at this...can I taste it?” 

 “Yes.” She squeaked out. Realizing she was wet again. Dear god, she wasn't sure if she could do this again, but she wanted to-for him. 

 She felt him press against her wet slit with his fingers. Gliding up and down over her clit and dipping inside her. His finger was teasing. She tried to push herself up on her elbows, but didn’t last long. Instead she jerked and gasped when his hot tongue replaced his finger. Sebastian stroked in and out of her with his tongue, over and over, faster and deeper. 

 Camille could only whimper. No words capable to describe how wonderful this felt. She shut her eyes tightly as he continued his attack. He laved her clit with his tongue, teasing her with the touch he seem to know was not quite enough to send her over. 

 Tiny gasp and humming noises left her when he gripped her hips blindly and rocked them gently on his tongue and mouth. This went on for a few moments, until Sebastian decided to glide his large hands unto each bare cheek. She arched her back when he delved his fingers roughly unto her flesh, his mouth not letting up. 

 Camille felt dizzy, but she wanted more. Her body needed more. “Oooh.” She sighed.

 He spread her wider for his viewing, and Camille’s body jolted when she felt the palm of his hand come back down on her now bare flesh, his tongue still pressed inside her. He sucked along one of her swollen lips at the same time and spanked again. 

 She let out a choppy breath, felling her nipples harden against the lacy material. 

 Sebastian took that as a good sign, because he added a finger to his tongue and stretched her farther to get more of the taste he craved. She stirred and gasped, not only due to his mouth, but also to the way his large hand kept kneading and smacking her flesh. She was sure, it would sting later, but fuck it was worth it. He pulled his finger out and tongued her as deeply as he could go, her whole body vibrated. Camille called out his name, her voice desperate. Trying to pull his mouth away, not sure how much more she could take. 

 “So fucking good.” She heard him growl. 

 By then she had given up trying to push him away, he moved his mouth back to her now quivering clit and slid his fingers back inside her. He violently lapped over her nub with his tongue until her body went stiff with preclimax tension and then he gently took her between his teeth and sucked. 

 She screamed, she begged. For him to stop. For him to keep going. “Sebastian...” she almost sobbed. 

 “I know baby... you’re doing so good.” He soothed. “Can you stand up?” 

 Camille squealed, then pouted. She hadn’t cum yet.

 What was he doing? She needed for him to finish! She was literally dripping. 

 She heard a light chuckle and somehow found herself turned around. Oh.

 Oh, that’s why he had asked if she could stand up. Without thinking twice her hands fell to his head for support, curling her fingers into his hair. 

 He peered up at her through those lashes. “Good girl.” A smug look painted on his features. 

 And without another word, darted his tongue across her once more. Camille tightened her grip on his hair

 Sebastian took another slow lick, sliding from one end of her hot core to the other, and she shuddered. His hands moved around to her backside, holding her tight, he drew her forward, his tongue bumping against her. She could feel it. And before she had a chance to think, hot wetness gushed from her. Her body shivered for an orgasm. 

 Her shallow pants echoed through the room as the shivers receded, he gentled her with his mouth. She sucked in a large breath, but her body and mind still in a blissful fog. “I-uh…whoa, whoa.” She stuttered and licked her lips over and over.

 How had she gone 4 months without his touch? Jesus.

 She peeked down and watched as he withdrew from in between her legs and placed open mouth kiss up her pelvic and stopped when he reached her bellybutton. His fingers playing with the blue straps still attached to her thighs.

 He snickered. “You okay baby?” And pressed another kiss on her belly.

 She nodded. “Uh huh…sure.”

 Distractingly she sank her manicured nails into his soft hair and massaged softly. “That was-wow.” She breathed. 

 Sebastian pushed himself up from the ground to face her. He pulled her close to him, rubbing her arms soothingly with the palm of his hands and smiled. “When do I get to see the red one?” 

 Camille snorted back her laughter at the ridiculous question. “What I’m going to do with you-?”

 Sebastian interrupted and kissed her lips. Her eyes fluttered when she tasted herself on his tongue. He lightly bit down on her lip. “Probably orgasm on your own?” He teased, his lips moving from her lips to her collarbone. 

 “Oh god-you’re awful.” She said through fits of giggles. But quickly changed her tune and sigh her response as his lips continued to do the most marvelous things to her neck. “Ooh my god...” feeling hot again. 

 “Mmm yeah?” 

 She closed her eyes and let her mind relax as he teased. “Ooohhh....” Then she heard it. The loud knock. Her eyes flew open. “Oh my god…Chris!” 

 At those words, Sebastian jerked his mouth from her neck. “Excuse me?!” His eyes wide in disbelief. He looked like he’d been slapped in the face. 

 Camille wrinkled her forehead in confusion for a split moment when he heard the tone of his voice. 

 Then it dawned on her...

 She brought both hands up to her mouth, her eyes dancing with laughter. “Baby-no.” Shaking her head. “The door.” And almost as if on cue, there was another light tap. “I forgot he said he was going to stop by and say hi.” 

 Sebastian’s shoulders dropped in relief. “Oh...okay.” His cheeks flushed. 

 She couldn’t help but giggle, when she realized why he had reacted the way he had. 

 He recovered quickly and glared playfully. “Shush it.” 

 Camille batted her eyelashes innocently and shrugged. 

 He smiled wickedly as his eyes roamed her almost naked form. “Why don’t I get the door?” 

 “Oh- I can do it.” She said nonchalantly, already predicting his response. He scowled. “Or…you can. That works too.” She stated sweetly. Then jumped in surprise when the palm of his hand swatted her ass. Her jaw dropped, but Sebastian was already walking away from her. 

 She watched as he bent down and swiftly grabbed the bathroom robe from the floor and tossed it gently to her. Camille caught it but raised an eyebrow. Sebastian raised both back at her before he turned his back to her. 

 “Oh shit!” She hissed nervously when she spotted it on the floor. “Seb-?” Already sliding the robe back on. But he was already bending down to pick up her lacy thong. She sighed in relief, then rolled her eyes when he shoved it in his front jean pocket. “Seriously?” She called out. 

 “What?” He said seriously. “I might need it later to compare it with the red one.” 

 Camille pretended to be annoyed but burst out laughing again at his reasoning. By then he stood by the door and winked. 

 She couldn’t remember the last time someone made her feel sexy and make her laugh in a short period of time. She sighed in contentment when she realized how happy he made her. It was simple as that.

                                                                                                  ***

 Camille looked up from her phone when she heard her name. Beaming widely when she recognized the face. “Hey!” She exclaimed. 

 “Hi gorgeous.” Hayley greeted in her familiar British accent. With a silly wiggle of her shoulders, Hayley slid into the booth next to Camille. Leaning in to give her a smooch on the cheek. “Muaw!” she added dramatically.

 Camille chuckled lightly at the greeting. It was past 1in the morning and they had moved on to the after party. The premiere had been a success. Everything seemed to have gone without a hitch. Everyone who had been involved in the project-appeared relaxed and chill now that it was out-including herself.

 “Glad it’s finally out?” Camille guessed and brought the cocktail with the straw up to her mouth. 

 Hayley let out an exasperated sound. “Yes!” Scowling for a split moment. “Do you know how hard it is for me to keep a secret?!”

 Camille stifled her laugh. “Oh I know.” She agreed. 

 “I was kidding.” Hayley scoffed with a playful glare. 

 Her face quickly turned somber. “Oh-me too sweetie.” Unable to keep the mischievous look away from her eyes as she said the words. 

 “Uh huh. You get a pass because I haven’t seen you in months.” The playful glare replaced by a wicked smile. “Speaking of secrets...” 

 At those words, Camille averted her eyes back down to her drink. Dreading where this conversation was headed. 

 Hayley continued. “How surprise was Sebby when you showed up at his door?”

 Her face relaxing a bit as the words sunk in. She had not been expecting that question, but she take it. Trying to remain composed, she answered with a genuine smile. “His reaction was definitely worth the 10 plus hours flight.” She shifted uncomfortably in her seat when she felt Hayley’s eyes narrow down at her. “What?” she asked innocently after a few seconds.

 “What was the look for?”

 “What look?” Camille repeated casually. Hayley’s gaze still on her. She stirred slightly in her spot and winced, feeling the sting from Sebastian’s hands from earlier on her ass. At first she hadn’t realized how bad it was, until she glanced at herself in the bathroom mirror, while Sebastian opened the door for Chris. Even with her dark skin, Camille could still make out the redness from his spanking. She pressed her lips together to keep from smiling at the image of Sebastian bending her over a table before the premiere…

 “I knew there was more-.”

 Camille jerked her attention back to her friend with a wrinkle of her forehead. “More about what?”

 Hayley snickered. “You bloody know what!” Pointing an accusing finger. “I knew all the rubbish about being only being friends wasn’t going to last.”

 Camille let out a dejected sigh. “You’re right.” Peering down at Hayley. “Chris and I have been seeing each other.” Keeping a straight face. “We’ve been going at it like bunnies. Cant’ get enough of Evans.” Sipping on her drink as she said the last words. She glanced back up, and burst into giggles when she saw the look Hayley was giving. “You don’t believe me? What? You don’t see him with me?”

 Glaring, Hayley flipped her long ponytail to the other side of her shoulder. “Keep talking darlin’- you’re just giving yourself away.” She added with a wink. “But he’s not the one who had been grumpy all morning because you hadn’t returned a text.”

 She gave a sheepish smile. “Was he really that bad?” Realizing she just gave herself up.

 “Insufferable.” Hayley said with a nose wrinkle, indicating she was teasing. “It has been a long couple of days for all of us.” She defended.

 “Yeah…I kind of figured it would be.” She was sure this day held a lot of emotion for everyone. “Do you get a few days off after this?”

 “Not until next week.” She answered with a shrug. “What about you? How long are going to grace us with your presence?”

 Camille rolled her eyes at the witty remark. “Unfortunately I have to leave early Wednesday. I have to be back on set Thursday.” 

 “Oh no.” Hayley pouted. “Sebby is not going to like that.” Camille wrinkled her nose in annoyance. “You two try and be so coy about all of this…but yet here you are.”

 “What’s that supposed to mean?”

 Hayley shook her head and chuckled. “You flew thousands of miles to see him. What do you think it means?”

 Camille opened and shut her mouth, lost for words. She gnawed on her lip. “That’s not true…” she started slowly, hoping to turn the conversation over to a different subject. Hayley quirked an eyebrow expectantly. “I flew out for the premiere, he just happened to be part of it.” Hayley nodded slowly as she listened to her reasoning, obviously not convinced. Camille squinted one eye. “Not believable?” she asked softly.  

 “No, sweetheart.”

 Dropping her shoulders, Camille leaned back into the booth and sulked slightly. Hayley’s words resonating with her. She knew what it looked like- flying out to surprise him. But she also recognized it wasn’t anyone’s business but hers and Sebastian’s. She would have done this for any one of her friends. Right?

 “Why the long face?” Hayley asked curiously. “It’s not a bad thing.”

 “We didn’t planned on this happening.” She blurted out. Her fears and questions about whatever this was with Sebastian bubbling over the surface now.  

 “Well of course not. It’s never planned.” Hayley answered knowingly. “But with you two? It was bound to happen eventually.” Then elbowed her good-naturedly. “Regardless of your efforts to avoid it from happening. Because we both know that’s what you were trying to do.”

 There was a long pause. Camille’s ears picking up on the music playing loudly around them. Unsure of what to say, especially because Hayley was right.  

 “But the question now is-what happens next? What do you plan on doing about it?”

 “Oh we’ve done a lot.” Camille divulged without thinking. She peeked anxiously over at Hayley. Her friend looked shocked for a split second then tossed her head back to cackle. Camille couldn’t help but giggle and brought one hand up to her face in embarrassment. “That was the cocktail talking!”

 Hayley’s laughter subdued. “Oh I’m sure it’s the cock…tail talking.”

 “Oh geez.” Camille groaned. “I walked right into that one didn’t I?”

 “Oh yeah.”

 It was silent again. Camille’s eyes wondered around the room, as she tried to collect her thoughts. “Were just…having fun.” She said out loud as he eyes spotted Sebastian and Chris at the bar, ordering drinks and laughing. Sebastian looked so handsome in an all-black suit, hair slicked back. His tie loose now that the premiere was over. Since she had waited on his mom, she did not get a chance to see him fully decked out before he left for the red carpet. But maybe it had been a good thing, because he looked so good, she would have tried to convince him to stay in bed with her.

 “Good, I’m glad.”

 Camille turned back to Hayley with a shy smile. “So I’m not really sure what happens next. We’ve talked some about it and I think were both on the same page about not labeling whatever this is at the moment.” Pause. “Especially with our past relationship history.” She added cynically.

 “Can I give you a piece of advice?”

 “Sure.”  

 “Do what feels right to you, not what everyone else is telling you. If that means not rushing -then that’s great...but if along the way you change your mind that’s fine too. Because in this business people will always be buzzing in your ear. “ 

 “Thanks.” Camille said gratefully. Her eyes wondering back to the bar. Sebastian and Chris nowhere to be found now. Where they go? 

 “Can I ask you something? “ She muttered distractedly, meeting Hayley gaze. Her friend nodded. “How pretty is this girl?” Curiosity getting the best of her. 

 “Dianna?” 

 “Hmm.” 

 “Don’t know. Never met her.” She said with a shrug. Her eyes narrowed in suspicion. “Wait-is he-?”

 Camille shook her head quickly with a short laugh, “No. That’s not it at all. Just...curious I guess. Not that he owes me any explanations.” She added awkwardly. 

 “Is that what you two decided on? To not share if you’re seeing other people?” 

 “Not necessarily.” Camille answered wearily. “We haven’t actually discussed those boundaries-or if we should have any...” Bringing the drink back up to her lips. “We…kind of got distracted with other things.” She finished vaguely. She heard Hayley snort next to her. “I know, I know.” Then pouted when she realized she was out of her drink.

 “I didn’t say anything!” Hayley exclaimed with a slight smirk.

 “But I know what you’re thinking.” Camille accused and set down her empty glass. “I know we need to.” She mumbled to herself.

 “Do you want more? I mean- do you care if he’s sees other people?”

 Camille thought for a second before she spoke. “I mean…it’s not like I’ll be thrilled about it, but I also know I can’t give myself to a committed relationship right now. I’m thousands of miles away-how’s that going to work? It’s not fair to either one of us. I care about him Hayles. But I’m still trying to deal with all these trust issues that my ex left. And I don’t want to put a label on this and then I turned completely crazy and throw my trust issues at him. So why not keep it fun…for now?” She realized she was blabbering.

 “So keep him at arm’s length?”

 She gave her friend an uncertain look. “It sounds horrible doesn’t it?”

 Hayley shook her head, her eyes soft. “No, it doesn’t. I get it.” Then added carefully. “Just as long as you are both on the same page. Because when you aren’t-that’s when things tend to go wrong.”

 Camille sighed loudly and slumped against the booth. “So what you’re saying is-I should probably talk to him?” Hayley nodded. Camille groaned. “But what we’ve been doing is so much more fun.” She protested.

 At those words Hayley tossed her head back and laughed. “It can’t possibly be that good?”

 She quirked an eyebrow and smiled smugly. The smile quickly evaporated from her face and instead jumped in her seat when she heard someone whisper loudly in her ear.

 “BOO!” Camille turned her head and found Chris bent down to her level, an evil grin on his face.

 “Fuck! Evans you scared me!” she cried.

 “That was the point sweetheart.”

 Camille glowered, ready to let him have it when her eyes spotted Sebastian standing next to him with a grim look. “He’s a bit drunk.” He shared.

 “That’s not true.” Chris argued. Then glanced over to Hayley. “C’mon.” he started and extended his hand out. “Apparently we have to go take some photographs for the paparazzo.”

 Hayley rolled her eyes and slide out of the booth. “Fine. Let’s go Evans”

 As they began to walk away, Sebastian took the opportunity to slide into the booth next to Camille. He smiled and opened his mouth to speak, but they both quickly turned their heads when they heard Chris yell after them.

 “Hey-you two-behave!”  

  ***

Camille and Sebastian did behave for the rest of the night. Even on the ride back to the hotel they managed to keep their hands to themselves- mostly because of their driver. They even accomplished not touching on the elevator ride. But now as they walked down the long hall toward Camille’s suite-side by side- Sebastian couldn’t help but run his fingertips deftly along one side of her curves. His senses on high alert.

 She looked up from her purse and gave him a warning look. “Cuanto tomastes?” She asked cheekily and in Spanish. Her focus back on her purse.

 “As much as you did dragoste.”  He retorted with a self-satisfied look. She jerked her attention back at him and raised an eyebrow in surprise. In returned he raised both at her and stuck his tongue out to the corner of his mouth. “Didn’t expect that did ya?”

 “No. Definitely not.” She answered with a giggle and came to halt as she continued her search in her purse. “Here it is!” she added excitedly, showing him the key card. “And I wasn’t the one sharing bottles of champagne with both Chris’s.” She accused, referring to Chris Evans and Chris Hemsworth.  

 “They offered. What was I supposed to say?” She gave him a skeptical look. He wiggled his eyebrows and tapped the side of her torso with his thumb. “But I’m not drunk.” 

 “Oh really? Do you always sing and dance karaoke? Because if I remember correctly I had to drag you onto the dance floor back in Manchester.” 

 He sighed relentlessly. “Fine, I was...but I’m not anymore.” He admitted and moved behind her now, both hands on her hips, his nose taking in the sweet smell of her shampoo-coconut. He swallowed and spoke again. “For the record- I do enjoy karaoke even when I’m sober.”  

 Which was the truth. After the long day of press junket/interviews/photographs/red carpet etc. a beer had sounded amazing. One beer turned into a few beers and by the time they made their way to the after party, he had a good buzz going, so when he had been offered champagne, it had only made sense to drink some. He hadn’t realized how tense he’d been feeling the last few days until he sat down with the rest of his coworkers/co-stars and they all seemed to be thinking the same- which was: that they were glad it was finally out!

 “That’s good to know Stan.” Camille said in a jokey tone, and looked at him over her shoulder. “When I come back-I’m dragging your ass to karaoke night.” Batting her eyelashes at him.

 He snorted, but kept his eyes on her, just enamored by her. He had left the hotel before her, so she could wait on Georgeta. Which is why he had almost tripped on his own feet when he spotted her inside the theater- laughing at whatever his mother was saying. She looked stunning in a white formfitting knee length dress, showing off her best assets, hair straight, and make-up done perfectly. As he had walked toward them, he couldn’t help but want to nuzzle his nose into her hair to take in her sweet scent.

 He hadn’t of course, but damn had it been tempting.

 But now they were alone...

 Without another thought, he dipped his nose into the hollow of her neck from behind. “Tu miroase uimitor…”  He couldn’t help and murmur in Romanian. His arms instinctively wrapping around the slim of her waist.

 “Sebastian.” She gasped in surprise. “What if someone sees?” she asked nervously.

 “Baby-it’s almost 3 in the morning and so far we’re the only ones standing in this deserted hallway.” He reasoned and sucked on the soft skin right above her neck, warm against his lips. She licked her lips slowly and twisted her neck to one side for better access. Sebastian smirked and pressed her soft body to his. “This is why I stopped drinking an hour ago.” He said gruffly.

 She hummed. “Why?”

 “Because I told myself I needed to be sober for this.” He continued and licked along her collar.

 “For what?”

 He reached her earlobe and nipped before he growled out. “For when I fuck you Camille.” He heard her breath hitch at his words. He trailed his large hands down her curves, aching to touch her naked skin. He was sure she could hear how loud his heart was thumping at the moment.

 “We-we should probably move from here then…” she finally managed to squeak out.

 He chuckled lightly. “Yeah? You think so?” Deftly letting his nose tease back and forth behind her ear. 

 “Mmm, mmm- uh yes.” She stammered at the same time he wrapped his arms around her waist. 

 She stuck her tongue out to lick her lips. “Yeah-y-yes.” She repeated. “Do we really need someone catching us with our pants down?” She managed to tease even when Sebastian pressed the back of her to the front of his chest.  

 “It hasn’t stopped us before.” He shot back with a wicked laugh, referring to the sex they had in the pool and in her car 4 months ago.

 “Those were momentarily lapse of judgement.” She muttered, trying to stand her ground.  

 “Of course.” He mocked. Feeling his cock stir when she shifted her tight little ass on him. “You’re the one with the key babe.” Sebastian reminded, as one hand purposely rested between where her thigh and hip met. Feeling her tense up at his touch. 

 But just as quickly as it came, she recovered and swiftly turned around so she could face him. Sebastian narrowed his eyes in suspicion when a sneaky smile tugged on her lips. “You’re right- I am.” And began to take a few steps backwards. 

 “Where are you going?” He cautiously asked. 

 “To my room.” Camille said simply and swirled again, so her back was to him. 

 “Is this an invitation for me to join?” 

 “Well-Stan-.” Emphasizing his last name as she looked over her shoulder. He only glared. She smiled sweetly and reached for his hand instead and began to lead the way down the empty hall. “Seeing that you did just confess about wanting to fuck me-.” Stopping for a second to gage his reaction. A look of satisfaction settling in her eyes when she notice his jaw clinch. “I think it’s only fair that you do join me.” She finished calmly and tugged on his hand, indicating for him to follow her.

 Sebastian didn’t say another word as he trailed behind, instead kept his eyes on her ass. Unable to stop himself from wondering what she was wearing underneath that white dress. Was she still wearing the little blue lingerie set from earlier?

 Damn-that had been a sexy little surprise, especially because she had done it deliberately for him. He smirked when he got the image of Camille bent over the table in her little lacy number.

 FUCK.

 She’d only been there 12 hours and already had him acting like a teenage boy. He was putty in her hands- and didn’t even care. All that mattered was that she was there with him. He blinked out of his thoughts as Camille came to halt. They stood in front of her door and she peered up at him through her lashes.

 “What is it?” Sebastian asked in a concern voice. The look in her face letting him know she had something on her mind.

 She leaned back, and took ahold of the door handle for support. “Nothing.” Her eyes soft.

 He leaned in and pushed his forehead to hers. “Baby-you’re not known for your lying skills.” He reminded.

 Letting out a light laugh, Camille shook her head in agreement. “You’re right.” Shifting a bit in her spot. After a few more quiet moments, she smiled up and stroked his chin with her forefinger. “I just wanted to say: I’m proud of you.” He blinked in surprise at her words. His cheeks warm all of a sudden. “I know you hate compliments.” She mocked with a nose scrunch. “But I just wanted you know that you kicked ass up on the big screen.” She finished with a sincere smile.

 Sebastian cleared his throat, unsure of how to respond. She was right, he never truly knew how to take compliments. He pressed a light kiss on the tip of her nose and met her gaze, with a shy smile. “Thank you. That means a lot coming from you.”

 The chemistry between them stronger than he remembered. He felt her arm come around his waist and tug him close. “You’re welcome Ojos Azules.”  She whispered.

 “Thanks for getting on a plane to be here.” He stated making a funny face in the process. 

 “Oh- I didn’t do it for you.” She shot back with a wicked smile. 

 “Oh? So you meant for everyone to see you in that garter belt?” Bringing his bottom lip between his teeth, his stomach filling up with butterflies at the anticipation. 

 She batted her eyelashes innocently. “Uh huh.” Tilting her head to one side and gave a slight nod. “Actually-I’m supposed to be meeting Dominic later.” She teased as she stroked his back softly.

 “Oh really?” Licking his lips one more time before he dipped his head down and took her lips with his. She didn’t stop him, in fact her lips reacted to his touch and kissed back. He broke away for a split moment. “Does he get to the see the red one?” Playing along.

 “Mmm, hmmm.” She shot back, not letting up, a small grin on her soft face when she tugged him back down and used her warm tongue to tease his bottom lip. Sebastian looped an arm around her waist and chuckled lightly as he pressed her up against the door frame, his tongue touching hers. For the next few minutes their lips explored each other. Small sighs and breaths in between, the realization that they were still in the hall, escaping them both.

 Sebastian trailed his hands upward, tangling them in her hair and tugged her closer, breathing heavy when she broke the lip lock. He watched as her chest heaved. “Can I least get a peek of the red one?” he asked in a serious tone.

 “Who say’s I’m wearing it?”

 “Hmm.” Kissing her hard again. “You should let me find out.” He ordered.  

 She whimpered when he pressed his hard chest to hers. “Seb-?” She started, breaking from his mouth again.

 “Yes dragoste?”  But sucked along her collarbone-making her gasp.

 “I just-we need to uh…” but sighed in bliss as he continued his attack. He heard her clear her throat. “Should we talk about-about what we should share with each other while-um…while…I’m gone?” she finally spat out, her breathing scruffy.

 He couldn’t help but feel proud of himself at her reaction to his mouth. He moved it up toward her earlobe- as his hands groped and clutched along her soft curves. “Okay.” Sebastian responded gruffly, her words not at all registering with him. Instead he kissed her mouth again. A shaky breath escaped and wrapped her arms around his neck, kissing him back; messy and needy.

 “Or-or we can talk about it later.” She conclude against his mouth.

 “Okay.” Sebastian repeated, swiftly taking the key card out of her hand and swiped it. He pushed the door open with his foot, then moved one arm back around her waist to hold her steady so she wouldn’t fall. With his free hand he slammed the door shut, tossed the key on the small table and sucked hard on her lower lip. Camille moaned and blindly took a step backwards, as she dropped her purse on the floor behind him.

 Once both hands were free, she cupped his face, and gazed up at him. Her eyes filled with fervor. “Fuck me, Sebastian.” Her breath ragged.

 He swallowed hard at her words. His heart ready to jump out of his chest at her plea. The room filling up with an energy only they could produce whenever they were together. He glided the palm of his hands up her back, then back down, his fingers eagerly searching for the zipper of the dress. He needed her. He didn’t know how else to describe it.  

 For the next couple of minutes they didn’t say one single word. Instead their lips continued to attack each other as her fingers fumbled with his tie, and suit coat. Once she got them off, she worked on his dress shirt, blindly but confidently undoing each one, as he nipped and sucked along the back of her ear. Finally-after what felt like forever, he unzipped the back of the dress, his palms coming in contact with warm skin, and tugged down. She wiggled in the spot just enough for the dress to fall around her feet.

 Sebastian felt his pulse quicken when his eyes landed on her form. He took a step back and groaned in admiration. Unlike the blue one -which looked more like a halter top- the red one was thin enough he could make out her dark nipples through the lace. He only licked his lips as his eyes traveled her body, down to the tattoo on her torso which went all the way down to her hip bone. Just like with the blue one- she wore a garter belt to match and nude stockings.

“Jesus-you’ve been wearing this all night?” he asked gruffly. He didn’t know what he had done to deserve this- but damn he wasn’t going to complain. After a few more seconds, he closed the distance between them and pressed her back to the door. “God, this is so fucking hot. I know I keep saying that- but fuck.” He blurted out. “All I wanted all night was to get you naked.” He confessed with a smile and shook his shirt off.

 “Then get to it Ojos Azules.” She pushed boldly.

 He didn’t need to be told twice. He nipped her lower lip with his teeth and slanted his mouth over hers, making her squirm. He pushed his tongue inside. Sebastian tasted the sweet wine from earlier with the sweetness that was Camille. “Did you just have these lying around?” He managed to tease, while his hands rested on the dip of her bare back, fingers itching to touch her bare ass again. 

 “No.” She squeaked when he began to play with the thong material on her hip. “I wanted to try something new...” 

 “Hmmm.” Sebastian responded at the same time he pressed his erection against her, the zipper on his pants rubbing his cock with each movement, making him even more eager to dive into her. 

 “Oh god Sebastian...” she moaned. “Please-just-please baby.” She pleaded with a small whimper. He chuckled and tugged down the thong at the same time his mouth founds hers again. Camille responded, clawing at the front of his slacks until she had them unfastened and unzipped. She wasted no time at all, she grabbed the waist and pulled down. Then reached and encircled his erection with both hands. “Mmmmm.” But it turned into a gasp then a low moan when his hands were quick to land on her ass.

 His dick hardened when he realized the bralette, garter belt and the straps were truly the only thing she had on. He grabbed the side of her hip roughly, his pulse and heart thumping madly when his knuckles grazed her luscious thighs. “God-I’ve missed you.” He declared abruptly and slid one hand to her center. His fingers met a hint of wet heat around the edge of her slick folds. Recognition slamming him. 

 “I can’t wait Sebastian.” Camille stated in a hushed tone. “Don’t be gentle baby.”

 He bit her neck. “You want me to fuck you hard up against this door?”

 “Yes.” She panted.

 Damn, if she didn’t drive him crazy. Unable to wait another second, he shoved her gently against the door, and lifted her leg to his waist and thrust inside. She panted and held him tight as he pushed deep, becoming a part of her, as she was becoming a part of him. Her full breasts meeting his chest with each thrust, stiff nipples in spite of the lacy bra between them.

 “Fuck, you feel good.” He grunted, and breathed heavy together.

 “Yes, oh yes.” She whimpered as he continued to thrust into her tight center. There was nothing sweet or soft in the way he was plunging into her at the moment. This was raw, needy and desperate. He had thought of stopping for a second to ask if this was okay, but didn’t need to when she clawed and nipped at his bare shoulder.

 He was close, so damn close, but he couldn’t. Not until…

 Sebastian shifted his body, then reached between them and found her swollen clit, while his thumb played with the straps of the garter belt. He wanted her naked-but he was also enjoying taking her this way, watching the swell of her breasts rise up and down over the bra as he teased her. Her mouth was on his throat now, sucking, biting through each plunge, but arched against his hand when he found the spot that truly made her squirm. He slowed his thrust and concentrated on her gasps as sweat beaded his temple and jaw clinched to maintain some kind of control.

 “Yes, yes, Seb.” She urged.

 “That’s right baby.” He murmured, burying himself deeper into her core, while he caressed the tender cleft. “I want to feel you cum around me Camille. I want to feel you come undone all over my cock.”

 Camille spread her legs wider, pressing against his finger while he pumped inside. “Oh god, right there…Please don’t stop.” she whimpered. “Please.”  “Shh, I’ve got you dragoste. Let it go.” He increased the quick strokes to her clit, while he let his own strokes pound deeply into her tight heat, in perfect timing with her building moans.  She sucked in a large gulp of air, and Sebastian felt her entire body tense. With one final deep animal like thrust he melted completely with Camille, both of their bodies finding satisfying release, while he captured her scream with his kiss. They kissed over and over, as if doing so would calm their bodies down. Finally Camille broke the lip lock and gazed up, wide eyed, still breathing heavy. He couldn’t help but think how beautiful she looked at the moment. Hair messy and sticking up, cheeks flushed, lips swollen from his kisses. 

 He brought his lips to her sweaty temple and pressed a gentle kiss. She sighed in contentment and dropped her forehead to his shoulder. For the next few minutes they didn’t move or say a word as they recuperated from what just happened. 

 Sebastian stroked her bare back with his knuckles, trying to get his heart beat back to a normal rate.

 Camille only continued to breathe heavily in his arms. Sebastian only wished he could keep her this way longer. But he knew it couldn’t be the case. So he tried his best to enjoy this moment of intimacy. Because regardless of the raw and passionate sex they just shared- holding her was the best part. She jolted him out of his thoughts when she stirred.

 Quickly he recovered and gave her back one last soft stroke, before he cleared his throat loudly. “I’m still hungry.” He declared into the side of her face. 

 Camille snorted and pulled away from him with a raised eyebrow. “You’re the one that didn’t want to stop and get something to eat after the driver offered.” She scolded.  

 He grimaced. “Yeah -well I had other pressing matters.”

 She wrinkled her nose and mocked. “Uh huh. Of course.”  

 He playfully glared, but winced for a split second when he eased out of her. “I didn’t hear you complaining.” One arm still wrapped around to hold her in place. “I know you’re hungry too.”

 Biting down on her lower lip, she shrugged nonchalantly, not meeting his eyes. “Do you think they do room service this late?” she asked sheepishly.

 He chuckled lowly, finally letting go of her. “I don’t know. You’re the one with the big fancy room.” He deadpanned, as he buttoned his slacks back up and turned in the direction of the bathroom.

 “It was one of the last room they had.” Camille called out after him. “It’s not my fault your manager likes me better!”  

 “She could have just put you with me.” He reasoned. Sebastian quickly returned with a white robe. “But it does seem that way doesn’t it?” he mused and handed it to her. “I don’t blame her- I would like you better too.” Not taking his eyes off her, he dipped his head down and planted a light kiss on her cheek.

 Camille narrowed her eyes in suspicion. “Don’t start getting all soft on me now.” Sliding her arms through the robe. But Sebastian could see the embarrass look in her eyes. “You think I can get pancakes?” she asked those beautiful brown eyes wide, filled with hope and changing the subject.

 “Where’s the menu?” He asked and looked around the room. She handed it to him and he wiggled his eyebrows. “Let’s find out.”

                                                                                                 ***

 Camille tossed her head back unable to control her laughter. “Oh my god!” she sputtered before she shoved the last piece of pancake into her mouth. “You’re so full of shit.” She accused Sebastian.

 Sebastian sat up against the headboard of the bed in his boxer shorts and glared. “Why would I lie about that? Do you know how embarrassing that was for me?” he yelped, reaching for one of the many pillows on the king size bed and brought it up to his broad chest.

 The Hollywood Roosevelt did take room service request, they both come to learn-and that included from the breakfast menu. So after filling up on food, they had moved to the loft style bed, with the white long curtains hanging all around it. Sebastian had been right-it was an elegant room. With a name like the “Marilyn Monroe Suite” why wouldn’t it be?

 “Apparently not that embarrassing if you’re sharing.” Camille accused. He rolled his eyes dramatically before he hanged his head back- feigning a look of hurt.

 They’d been in bed for the part hour and half- just talking and catching up. They caught up on each other’s everyday life. Camille had shared a few stories about New Zealand and he shared what his last few auditions had been like. It was nice, it was comfortable. She had no idea what time it was- but neither one seemed to mind and besides she was so jetlag, she wouldn’t be able to sleep anyway. The conversation progressed and it landed on the subject of sex. Sebastian had spent the last 10 minutes sharing (in explicit details) the worst sex experience he ever had.

 “What about you?”

 “What about me?” Camille was quick to ask as she laid back on the bed, opposite from Sebastian, the heels of her feet resting on the headboard. She taken off the stocking, so when the robe fell back-it exposed just enough of her legs and thighs. She glanced up at Sebastian, and he quickly pretended he hadn’t just been staring. She couldn’t help but hide a smug smile.

 “Stop trying to distract me.” He mumbled and clenched his jaw.

 “Oh- I didn’t realize that’s what I was doing.” She said innocently. Then let out a small gasp when she felt one of his large hands slide up her leg, toward her thigh. “Sebastian…” she warned.

 “Camille.” He taunted back and gave her thigh a squeeze. “C’mon- I gave you my virginity and worst story.” He pleaded with a pout. Camille swallowed as his fingertips tickled her thigh. 

 She giggled. “I don’t know if I can top your virginity story. Who goes to McDonalds afterwards?”

 “We got hungry!”

 Her eyelids fluttered open and shut, feeling the familiar tingle between her thighs when he touched her. “Stop- you’re distracting me.” She mocked. Sebastian pretended he didn’t hear and continue to tease. She opened her eyes back to find those blue stunning eyes peering down at her with a pleased smile. Camille pressed her lips together and squirmed under his gaze. She knew he was trying to rattle her, but she wasn’t going to let him win.

 She cleared her throat and raised a defiant eyebrow at him. “Okay- this story covers both.”

 He grimaced and pulled his hand away, completely distracted now. “Whoa-that’s cheating!” he accused. “Of course first times are bad.”

 Camille reached back and pushed a pillow behind her head. “You want to hear the story or not?” she threaten with a hint of a smirk. He glowered, but didn’t respond. “I had just turned 15 and this guy I was seeing at the time was 17. Of course Tia Yolanda did not know that-no will she ever.” She added poignantly. “Anyway I had told her I was staying the night a Carolina’s and snuck out to meet him. He had just gotten a car so of course I thought he was super cool-“

 She lifted her head when she heard Sebastian making snoring noises. She glanced over at him and he hanged his head to one side, tongue out, pretending to be asleep.

 She scowled and poked his side with her foot. “You’re such an ass.”

 He chortled then shook his head. “Okay, okay. I’m sorry. I’m done-continue.” But Camille only glared back. “Will you stop pouting?” he asked with a small smile. She kept her composure, not saying a word. He let out an exaggerated sigh and crawled toward her. “You’re so stubborn.” Hovering above her and gently tugged a strand of hair behind her ear.

 She avoided eye contact, but felt the butterflies in her belly, when his warm breath hit her face. She flinched for a split second as one arm came around her waist and he drew her upward toward his hard body at the same time his lips came down and touched hers in a gentle kiss. She felt her body relax against him and kissed back.

 They kissed tenderly for a few moments, then Sebastian pulled away, his blue eyes soft. “Sorry for being an ass.” He apologized. She narrowed her eyes in suspicion, trying to hide the smile. “What can I do to make it up to you?” he teasingly asked, his nose nuzzling behind her ear as his hand roamed up and down her thigh. “God- you always smell so fucking good.” He grunted.  

 Her eyes fluttered open and shut and slid her arms around his shoulder and neck. Forgetting what they had been talking about. She couldn’t help but snicker when he tickled the side of her face. “Mmmmm.” She purred when he nipped on her earlobe.

 “So did you end up losing your virginity in a car?” Sebastian asked in conversational tone, as he stroked the inside of thigh with his knuckles.

 “Hmm yeah. You don’t realize how small a backseat is until you have two people trying to maneuver horizontally.” She responded. “And I guess I had high expectations because he finished before we got started.” She added with a sardonic laugh. “So we tried again, because he promised it would better and it was-for him.”

 She heard Sebastian’s chuckle alongside her neck. “You let him try again?” he asked incredulously.

 “I was fifteen. I didn’t know any better.”  

 “What you do afterwards?”

 “Nothing really. After that experience I swore I was done with sex.” She indicated, feeling his warm fingers grip her hip. “He wasn’t a boyfriend-maybe it would have been different if he had been. He drove me back to my cousin’s and left.”

 “Did you ever see him again?” Lifting his head up.

 Camille smirked. “Actually yes- 4 years later. We bumped into each other at a college party. He apologized for what happened.”

 “And…?” Sebastian pushed as if he knew there was more to the story.

 “Let’s just say- he learned a lot from the last time I saw him.” She said sheepishly. “We kind of… ended up doing the friends with benefits things for a few months until he moved to Chicago.” Mindlessly stroking his bare shoulders with her knuckles, a bubble of anxiety suddenly hitting her as Hayley’s words ringed in her ear from their conversation earlier in the night.

 She must have zoned out because, she felt him clutch her skin. “What is it?” Sending open mouth kisses along her collarbone.

 “Speaking of the whole friends with benefit…” Trailing off and arching her back as he continued his sweet torture. She chewed on her lower lip tensely, trying to concentrate. But it was hard. “Seb-do you remember what I asked you before you pushed me up against the door?” Closing her eyes tightly, her body aching to feel more of him but she knew they had to talk.

 “About?”

 “Sebastian-we should talk.” She stated firmly. She wanted him to continue his teasing, but the sooner they talked about this- the better. He came to a halt when he hear the tone of her voice. Letting out a small sigh, he pulled back from her and peered down expectantly. “Don’t be mad at me-.”

 “I’m not mad at you.” He interrupted, completely pulling away and sitting back down. “I know we have to. I just figured I could try and distract you.” He added with a guilty smile.

 Camille couldn’t help but sigh in relief at his words, glad he was on the same page as her. She looked back up at him. “What?” she asked, feeling his eyes transfixed on her.

 He gave a slight shake of his head. “Nothing. I’m waiting on you to start.” He said almost mockingly.

 “Thanks for not making it awkward.” She stated sarcastically and sat up.

 “Camille-.” Reaching for her hand and squeezing it. “Baby, it’s going to be awkward. Who said these type of conversations were fun?” he paused. “Listen-I meant what I said back in Big Sur-there’s no pressure-.”

 “I know. I just mean like- in regards to seeing other people. I mean- we aren’t exclusive so that doesn’t matter, but I’m so far away and it’s not fair-.” She stopped abruptly and sneaked a peek. He was looking at her with amusement. “You’re just gonna let me blab on?”

 “Pretty much-yeah.” He responded with a nod and an airy chuckle. His face quickly turned somber. “I’m not seeing anyone exclusive if that’s what you’re getting at.”

 Camille quickly shook her head, reaching out to stroke his chin. “Stop. You’re allowed to see whoever you want.” She bit down on her lower lip, trying to collect her thoughts. “I guess that’s what I’m trying to say. We’re thousands of miles away from each other- I don’t have any expectations when I get back. Maybe a heads up?” she suggested, her face warm. She knew it wasn’t making any sense.

 “A heads up?” Sebastian repeated slowly.

 “Yeah. If you’re seeing somebody. That way I don’t make a fool of myself. You know? Like throw myself at you or something.” She sputtered on. She looked nervously over at him and he nodded in understanding, yet his face didn’t give anything away. “Seb-when we’re together it’s amazing. But I’m not-.”

 “Come here.” Tugging on her hand, he pulled her unto his lap. Instinctively, she looped one arm around his shoulder. “I’m not seeing anyone right now.” He repeated softly, rubbing his hand up and down her back soothingly.  

 “I know that. But that’s what I’m trying to say, it’s not fair-to wait around.” Not meeting his gaze. “For the sake of our friendship-“

 “We already ruin that don’t you think?” he teased with a nose scrunch.  

 “You know what I mean. If you’re looking for more-then maybe this wasn’t such a great idea. I mean it’s just not fair. I don’t want to hold you back.”

 “Hey- shh. I agreed to this remember? You’re aren’t holding me back. But you’re right- we should tell each other when and if new people enter our lives. Maybe not in full detail…but out of courtesy.”

 Camille nodded in agreement. How did he do it? How was he able to soothe her? Over the past year he had become the calmness over chaos that was her anxiety, her voice of reasoning when she felt there wasn’t one. 

 “What if we wreck this?” She couldn’t help but ask. All her fears and insecurities seeping out now and she couldn’t control it.  

 “Do you think we will?” 

 “I don’t know.” Camille answered honestly, running her fingers through his now messy hair.  

 God he was beautiful, with those gorgeous blue orbs that made her melt, and the soft smile he always had reserved just for her whenever she looked at him.  

 “Camille?” 

 “Hmm?” 

 He placed a finger underneath her chin, forcing her to face him again. “We can end this- we can say goodbye tomorrow and we can just go back to how things were- if that’s what you want.” His voice low, his eyes wide- as if he wasn’t sure which way she would go.  

 Cupping his face with both hands, Camille drew him closer and bend down, brushing her lips tenderly against his. She heard him sigh, as his mouth kissed back. Sebastian pulled away from her lips and smiled. 

 “Is that a ‘yes’ or a ‘no’?” 

 Camille laughed lightly, the tension from a few moments ago dissolving when she looked down at him. His blue arises filled with hope, but also fear now. There was no backing out of this now. Whatever it turned out to be. Letting out a large exhale, she replied in a whisper. “No.” 

 She watched his smile grow and reach all the way to his eyes before he tugged her face to his again.   

  ***

“You have to push the button for it to move Ojos Azules.”  Sebastian heard Camille tease next to him. He looked down at her, just as she playfully elbowed him.

 “Has anyone ever mentioned how bossy you are?” He shot back with a wrinkle of his nose, but pushed the elevator button at the same time.

 “Just you.”

 He snorted at her quick witted response. A hint of sadness hitting the pit of the stomach when he realized why they were in the elevator in the first place. Their time was coming to an end. It was 430 in the morning and he was walking her to the underground parking lot where a car was waiting to drop her off to the airport. He couldn’t believe how quick the past 36 hours had gone. It felt like she had just gotten there, then again it had been nonstop since she arrived. After the premiere and alone time in her room they finally fell asleep for a couple of hours, then got up to meet Georgeta for brunch.

 After brunch they went their separate ways for a few hours-he had to finish up a few more interviews- he wished he hadn’t agreed on prior to Camille showing up, but he couldn’t back out. So while he was doing that-Camille and Georgeta apparently spent the afternoon together, shopping and enjoying the Los Angeles sun. By late afternoon, he had been done and met up with them for dinner before his mother had to head out to the airport. They said goodbye to her and then they were alone again- at least until it was time to say goodbye to her.

 He must have been deep in his own thoughts, because he jumped slightly when he felt Camille intertwine her fingers with his and gave it a light squeeze. With a slight shake of his head, he peered down and smiled softly, unsure of what to say. They locked eyes and Camille smiled back before she leaned her body into him, pressing her cheek along his arm for comfort. He squeezed her hand back, silently letting her know, they were on the same page.

 They didn’t speak for the next few minutes as they elevator went down. He was dreading saying goodbye, it definitely hadn’t gotten better with time. Especially saying it to Camille.

 The conversation they had the day before kept running through his head. He knew there were many scenarios of how this could end up. And her fears and insecurities only mirrored his own. Everything she said, he understood and agreed with-regardless of his feelings for her. It was a seesaw of emotions he was still trying to balance, wanting to be with her but at the same understanding she needed her space. And she needed-deserved someone who would be there for her and he couldn’t promise that, he was a workaholic and just like her career was important to her-he felt the same about his. There was a lot to consider, and knew they made the right decision. It didn’t mean it did not suck.

 “Penny for your thoughts?” he heard Camille whisper next to him.

 He blinked back to sound of her voice and gave her a half smile as he thought quickly on his feet. “Did you tell Natalie you were going to be here?”

 She squinted her eyes in doubt. “Yes... but they didn’t care.” He raised an eyebrow in surprise. She laughed casually. “Mostly, because Nat, Sam and Tia Yolanda are flying out next week to see me.”

 They both turned their attention to the ding noise the elevator made-indicating they were in the parking lot. Camille moved first and tugged on his hand to follow, but Sebastian was quicker and grasped her wrist instead. She jumped in surprise. With his other hand, he reached over her and pushed the ‘STOP’ button.

 “Seb?”

 “I rather give you a proper goodbye in here before we go out there and people start staring.”

 “By people- you mean the driver?” she joked. He playfully glared, as his hands toyed with a loose curl. “Are you stalling?” she guessed.

 “Yes.” He answered truthfully and tilted his head to one side. “Is it working?”

 Giving a playful nose scrunch, she pushed herself on her tiptoes and brushed her lips with his. He closed his eyes, savoring their last moments together. He felt her arms slide up and around his shoulders and neck, chest pressed tightly against his. He instinctively moved his arms down and around her waist. For the next few moments, they stood in the same position as he kissed her back, not wanting to let her go just yet. When he had her this way it made him want to reevaluate everything.

 They broke their embrace, and Sebastian stroked her cheek. “What about now?” he asked with a sheepish grin. She peered up at him through her lashes with a sad smile.

 “You’re not making it easy.”

 Before he could stop his brain or mouth, he blurted out. “Then stay.”

 Camille’s eyes grew wide in surprise at his outburst. “Sebastian…” she started softly.

 He shook his head dismissively, wishing he hadn’t said it. He cupped her face. “I’m sorry.” He murmured. “We talked about this. It slipped out.” His heart thumping widely in his chest.

 Smiling knowingly, she kissed him again. “I get it.” she added breaking from his mouth. “I’m going to miss you.” She whispered.

 He stifled a laugh. “I believe that’s the first time you’ve said that to me.” Running his fingers through her curls. Referring to the many times, he’s tried to get her to say it before he left Los Angeles.

 She gripped unto his shirt and pulled him close, her eyes dancing. “Don’t get used to it Ojos Azules.” Giving him one last peck before she pushed the button to open the elevator door. “C’mon, I need to get going.” Reaching for his hand.

 He followed in toe, but before they fully stepped out of the elevator, he brought her knuckles to his lips. “I’m going to miss you too dragoste.” He whispered, unsure of what else to say to not make this harder than it already was.

@mydragulesebastian  @its-daydreamer23 @janeyboo  @peaceinourtime82 

@jhangelface0523

[unfortunate-stranger-losers]

Six Baudelaires AU, Part Three {AO3} {Masterlist} {Part One} {Part Two}

Chapter Twenty → in which Lilac leads a jailbreak

Lilac launched herself forwards, throwing her arms around Nick and hugging him close. “We’re getting out! I promise! We’re getting out before they can hurt you again!” 

Nick didn’t say anything; he opened his mouth to try and speak, but all that came out were strangled sobs and screams. He gripped tight onto his eldest sister, burying his face in her shirt and shaking uncontrollably. 

“Nick, Nick, look at me. Look at me!” Lilac said, trying to pull away. “Nick, look at me! We’re getting out!”

Her younger brother finally pulled away, but only to run off to the corner of the small brig, where he leaned over and vomited onto the floor, barely keeping his own balance. Lilac jumped to her feet and dragged him towards the wall, as he shook more and clung to her arm. 

“We need to get out of here.” Fiona said, kneeling in front of the knob. “Lilac, what kind of lock is this?” 

“I…” Lilac slid onto a hard bench, where Nick sat beside her and refused to stop clinging to her side. “I glanced at the locks on our way in. They’re ordinary enough pin-tumbler locks, so- hold on a moment. Nick, Nick, please-” 

Nick shuddered beside her, and he finally choked out, “I’m sorry! I’m sorry!” 

“No! No, don’t be-” 

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry-” he didn’t seem able to say anything else, and after a minute or so of just saying that while Lilac hugged him tight, he burst into sobs again. 

“Nick, it’ll be okay. We’ll be out before they can get to us. Promise.” Lilac said. 

Carefully, Fiona crept forwards, also putting an arm around Nick to try and provide some form of comfort. Lilac pulled them both closer, and then she said, “Fi, they’re pin-tumbler locks. But I don’t have a hairpin…” 

Fiona opened her mouth to admit she didn’t have one, either, but then she paused, and slowly reached into her pocket. She pulled out the item the recruit had given her, and held it out. 

A hairpin. 

“One of those kids slipped it to me.” Fiona said. “She must’ve known how to break out of the locks, or guessed.” 

“Good to know we have someone on our side.” Lilac said, relief in her voice. “Do you know how to pick a lock?” 

Fiona smiled slightly. “Do you know how to fix a lamp?” 

Lilac smirked a little. “I’ll help Nick if you get the door.” 

“Absolutely. Then we’ll all bust out.” 

Fiona ran to the door, kneeling down to work the lock, and Lilac said, “See, Nick? We’re getting out. We’re-” 

“No. No, no, no…” Nick muttered, hugging her tight. “No, no, no, no…” 

“We’re getting out!” 

“We can’t get out, we can’t get out, we can’t get out, we… he’s going to kill us, he’s… Lilac, I… I don’t want to…” 

Lilac shut her eyes and started to rock back-and-forth, keeping her arms very tight around her brother. “Shh. Shh.” 

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry…” he repeated this until he couldn’t speak any more, his throat too choked up and the tears coming too fast. 

And then Lilac quietly sang, “Pretty when the window blows, I love my tree in autumn… Like I love my tree in summer, like I love my tree in winter… They put me in a room, and I thought of you in autumn…” 

She shut her eyes, humming the next line, and then she picked up again. Fiona kept working on the lock, and Nick kept clinging to Lilac, terrified to let go, and she kept singing. 

“Pretty when you sing me a new song in autumn, or a new song in winter, or a new song in summer…” 

“Let us go!” Violet pounded on the door, shouting at the top of her lungs. “Let us out, you son of a fuck!” 

Klaus was sitting on the bench, with both Soli and Sunny curled up in his lap. Soli was leaning against his arm, coughing, while Sunny kept looking around the cell for anything that might bust them out. 

“We need to get out of here!” Klaus said desperately. “Violet, what can we use to open the door?” 

“Sunny,” Violet spun around on her heels, running to the bench and tying her hair back as fast as she could, “Bite the chains binding his bench to the wall until they fall off. We can use it as a battering ram.” 

“I mean,” Klaus said, as Sunny gave Solitude a pat on the hand and then slid off towards the chains, “I meant, is there a lockpick-” 

“I’m not Lilac, buddy, we’re breaking down the door.” Violet considered, glancing around. “Think we could make a flamethrower instead? What’ve we got?” 

At that moment, though, the door swung open, and in walked the Hook-Handed Man. 

Violet leapt in front of her siblings, and Klaus reached out to grab Sunny, who honestly didn’t look too worried. 

“Alright, orphans,” he said, “I’m not gonna sugarcoat this, I’m here to torture you.” 

“You can torture us all you want-” Violet began. 

“I am gonna torture you all I want.” 

“We don’t know where the Sugar Bowl is,” Violet finished, “And we don’t care!” 

Solitude started coughing again, as the Hook-Handed Man said, “Shut up! Now, the boss has questions, and so do I. Why were you on the Queequeg? What are you playing at?” 

“What?” Klaus asked. 

The Hook-Handed Man glanced towards him, narrowing his eyes. “Why’s that baby got a diving suit still on?” 

“She’s sick!” Klaus said. “If we don’t get her back to the submarine, she’ll die!” 

“I don’t have time for tricks!” the Hook-Handed Man moved forwards, reaching out for Solitude, but then he froze, staring inside her helmet. 

“Please?” Sunny crawled over, putting her hands on one of his hooks and tilting her head. 

But the Hook-Handed Man didn’t look at her; he stared at the mushrooms, poking out of the helmet as Soli coughed. “She’s infected with the Medusoid Mycelium.” he said, astonished. He turned towards the other Baudelaires, saying, “Do you know how dangerous that fungus is?” 

“Of course we do!” Violet said, glancing at the door; the Hook-Handed Man had left it unlocked behind them, slightly ajar, but she couldn’t run while he was right next to her siblings. “That’s why we have to get her back!” 

“You have to help us, please!” Klaus begged. 

Sunny clutched harder onto his hooks, until the man looked down at her. She stared up at him, pleading with her eyes. Then, she said, in a very small voice, “She’s our sister.” The Hook-Handed Man stared, and then she added, “Please.” 

He opened and closed his mouth multiple times, before finally saying, “I- where are your other siblings?” 

Violet peered over at him. Did this mean he would help? “They’re in the other brig-” 

They heard a door slam open. 

“And they just escaped.” she said, nodding. 

“Well, that’s just great.” the Hook-Handed Man sighed, pulling away from Sunny and Klaus and crossing his hooks. “The boss is gonna hate this.” 

“Why do you care? He’s a fucking bastard.” Klaus said. 

“Hey-” the Hook-Handed Man began. 

The door swung open, and the siblings looked to see that Lilac had seemingly kicked it open; she and Fiona both had their arms around Nick to support him, as he was still shaking like a leaf and had his eyes shut tight, though it thankfully seemed that he’d recently stopped crying. 

“Jailbreak! Everyone out!” Lilac shouted. Her eyes fell on the Hook-Handed Man, and she said, “Violet, you have full permission to-” 

“No, no, we’ve solved this, but thank you, I will hold onto that permission.” Violet said. 

“He’s going to help us, I think.” Klaus said, running over with Solitude still in his arms. “Is Nick okay?” 

“No, we have-” Lilac paused. “Fiona?” 

Fiona had frozen, her eyes locked with the Hook-Handed Man. They stared at each other for a very long time, and then Fiona shouted, “Fernald?” 

“Fiona?” 

Fiona let go of Nick, rushing forwards, and Klaus managed to grab his brother’s other arm before she threw her arms around the henchperson, shouting, “Fernald! Fernald, you’re alive!” 

“Fiona? What are you doing here?” 

“They captured the Queequeg!” 

“Yes, but the Count said Widdershins wasn’t on it.” 

“I was!” 

“Well, he didn’t say that!” 

The Baudelaires looked to each other in shock, and then Violet said, “Hi! Hello! What the fuck?” 

Fiona and the Hook-Handed Man jumped, as if suddenly realizing that the others were in the room. The mycologist turned and said, “It’s my brother! Fernald!” 

Lilac gaped at her, and then said, “Your brother is working for Count Olaf!” 

Fiona paused. “Oh, yeah. Fernald, what the fuck?” 

“Long story.” he said. 

“Why did you leave?” she let go of him a second, staring up at him. “What happened to your hands?” 

“What? Did Widdershins never tell you?” 

“He said you disappeared after Mother died.” 

“Son of a bitch, of course he did. He never could admit-” Fernald sighed. 

“Admit what?” Lilac snapped, straightening up. When she realized that Nick seemed to be alright supporting himself, she let go of him and walked forwards, pulling the newspaper scrap from the cave out of her pocket. “We found this in Anwhistle Aquatics! Do you know what it says?” 

Fernald gave the scrap a dark look. “I definitely do.” 

“It says that you burned Anwhistle Aquatics!” Lilac said. “It’s called ‘Verifying Fernald’s Defection’ for heaven’s sake! You set the place on fire and murdered Gregor Anwhistle!” 

Fiona looked to her brother in shock, while Sunny slid off the bench and ran over to Violet, holding up her arms so her sister could lift her. 

Fernald simply looked at Lilac carefully, and then said, “You should know by now, Baudelaires, that newspapers are not always reliable. I won’t say I didn’t participate in that fire, but you should know it’s not as black-and-white as you’re making it.” 

“Someone died!” Lilac said. “And you burned a research facility!” 

“A facility that created the Medusoid Mycelium that poisoned your sister.” Fernald gestured to Soli, who was still coughing. “They were going to send it all over the world. Do you know how many people that would have killed?” 

“They wouldn’t have done that.” Klaus said. “The Aquatics was on the right side of the schism.” 

Nick shivered, and Fernald said, “There is no right side of the schism.” 

“So you set a building on fire and murdered someone.” Lilac said. 

“You should have seen the fire.” he said quietly. “From a distance, it looked like an enormous black plume of smoke, rising straight out of the water. It was like the entire sea was burning down.” 

“You must have been proud of your handiwork.” Fiona said bitterly. 

“Proud?” Fernald said. “It was the worst day of my life. That plume of smoke was the saddest thing I ever saw.” He sighed, and said, “Something you children should understand is that the world isn’t divided into good and evil. Just as the poison of a deadly fungus can be the source of some wonderful medicines, someone like Jacques Snicket, who wrote that blasted article, can do something villainous, and someone like Count Olaf can do something noble. Even your parents-” 

“Fernald, please.” Fiona said, staring at him. “Answer directly. Did you kill Gregor Anwhistle?” 

Fernald gave her a look, and then said, “The last time you saw me, Fiona, I had two hands instead of hooks. Our stepfather probably didn’t tell you what happened to me- he always said there were secrets in the world too terrible for young people to know. What a fool!” 

“He’s…” Fiona glanced at the ground. “He’s a noble man.” 

“People aren’t either wicked or noble.” Fernald said. “They’re like chef’s salads, with good things and bad things chopped and mixed together in a vinaigrette of confusion and conflict.” 

They were silent for a moment, and then Solitude coughed again, and Lilac straightened up. “Prove it.” 

“What?” 

“Prove it, and get us back to the goddamn submarine.” she said. “Help us save Solitude, and prove you’re not a wicked person.” 

Fernald met her gaze, and then looked to the coughing toddler, and then to Fiona. 

“I will go,” he said, “If you take me with you.” 

They all shared looks; they weren’t sure they could trust him, but it was a better option than just waiting for Soli to die in the brig. 

“Aye!” Sunny shouted, smiling over at him. 

“Of course.” Fiona said. “Of course you can come.” 

“Okay.” Violet said. “But we have to hurry.” 

“That’ll be tricky.” Fernald said. “The only way out is through the rowing room, which Esme will have returned to by now. We’ll have to figure out a way to sneak past.” 

He moved past them, gesturing for them to follow. Klaus still held tightly onto Nick, who looked shell-shocked, and Violet ran to Fiona, saying, “Fiona, are we really taking him with us?” 

“Aye.” Fiona nodded. “He’s my brother. You wouldn’t abandon your siblings, would you?” 

Violet bit her lip, and then looked to Soil and shook her head. 

“For my third dance, I will twirl around and around while all of you clap as hard as you can! It is a dance of celebration, in honor of the most adorable tap-dancing ballerina fairy princess veterinarian in the world!” 

The Baudelaires glanced at each other as they heard the recruits groan and Esme slap her noodle whip. 

“Okay,” Fernald said, “You see those stone pillars in the room? If we walk and hide behind those while Camelita sings, everyone will be focused on her and not on us, and we should be able to sneak by.” 

“That sounds risky.” Lilac said, glancing towards Nick and Klaus. 

“Do you have a better plan?” 

“We could pretend the Great Unknown showed up and is about to eat everyone.” Violet said. 

“I’m sorry, do you have a small black statue that can imitate its call?” Fernald said. 

“Why would I-” 

“Then we need to hurry. Come on.” 

The Baudelaires sighed, and Lilac said, “Soli, please try to keep quiet.” In Klaus’s arms, Soli coughed much more quietly. 

The group started to run, ducking behind pillars and occasionally glancing out to make sure everyone was focused on Carmelita, who was twirling and singing at the top of her lungs. 

“C is for cute, A is for adorablle! R is for ravishing! M is for gorgeous!” 

“I want to strangle her so bad.” Klaus whispered to Nick, hoping that would cheer him up, but Nick still had his eyes shut and was clinging to Klaus and Solitude as if they were his only lifeline. Violet and Lilac stuck close to him, with Sunny leaning on Violet’s shoulder, while Fernald and Fiona raced up ahead. 

“E is for excellent! L is for lovable! I is for I’m the Best! T is for talented! And A is for a tap-dancing ballerina fairy prin- hey! Cakesniffers!” 

The Baudelaires froze, but then saw that Carmelita was not pointing at them, but at Fiona and Fernald, who were standing awkwardly between two oars. 

“How dare you, Hooky?” Esme shouted. “You’re interrupting a very In recital by an unspeakably darling little girl!” 

“I’m very sorry, your Esmeness.” the Hook-Handed Man said quickly. “I would sooner lose both hands all over again than interrupt Carmelita when she’s dancing.” 

“Now I have to recite the entire recital all over again!” Carmelita pouted. 

The rowers groaned, and the Baudelaires took the opportunity to move down a pillar, though Lilac was very worriedly watching Fiona. 

“Your Esmeness, I…” Fernald said nervously. “I just was wondering if I could borrow your giant noode to torture the Baudelaires with.” 

“But I need it to make these recruits behave.” Esme said. “Besides, I don’t like to lend things.” 

Fiona quickly stood up straight, and said, “But we’re so close to learning the location of the Sugar Bowl.” 

Esme glanced at her. “Weren’t you with the orphans?” 

“Um, no.” Fernald said, putting a hook around her shoulder. “This is my sister, Fiona, and she’s joining the crew of the Carmelita.” 

“Fiona isn’t a very In name.” Esme said. “I think I’ll call her Triangle Eyes. Triangle Eyes, are you willing to join us?” 

“Aye.” Fiona said. 

“Then take my noodle and scram while Carmelita starts her In recital again.” Esme said. 

Just as Fernald and Fiona stepped in front of Esme, the Baudelaires took the opportunity to run as fast as they could. 

“When is Fiona going to join us?” Lilac glanced behind them as she pushed her siblings ahead of her. 

“I don’t know. Who knows how long they’ll have to stall?” Klaus said. 

“We’ll just need to find the antidote on our own.” Violet said. “Come on! Go!” 

They ran down the halls and back to the Queequeg, hurrying through the hatch and sliding down the ladder. As soon as they reached the inside, Violet said, “I have a plan. Everyone hurry to the study to find Fiona’s mycology books, while I get Nick’s sweater to chill him out. Will that help, Nick?” 

Nick shrugged, leaning onto Klaus, who said, “We don’t need all her books. She left the one we need in the main hall.” 

“Then go there!” Violet said, her voice breaking. “We don’t have much time!” 

As soon as they reached the main hall, Klaus put Solitude onto the table to rest while he ran for Mushroom Minutiae. Lilac helped Nick sink into a chair, while Sunny ran towards the sagging VFD balloons and bit into the strings, in case they needed some kind of rope. It wasn’t very helpful, but Sunny wasn’t sure what else to do. 

At that moment, Babbitt hopped in from the kitchen, chirping indignantly, as if pissed that they’d left them out of an adventure. 

“Babbitt, we don’t have time for whatever it is!” Lilac said. “Solitude’s sick, and we need to find the antidote!” 

Babbitt stared at her blankly for a moment, and then let out an incredibly loud squeal and made a running leap onto the table. They ran up to Soli, jumping on her shoulder and making a lot of noises very fast, as if trying to get her to tell them it wasn’t true. Then they let out what sounded like a cry and pressed themselves against her helmet as she kept coughing. 

“Here we go. Chapter Forty, The Gorgonian Grotto.” Klaus flipped to the page, skimming. 

Violet ran in, carrying Nick’s blue sweater in her hands. She handed it to him, and he immediately threw it on over his uniform, hugging himself and rocking back-and-forth. 

“A single spore has such grim power / That you may die within the hour.” Klaus read. “Is dilution simple? But of course! / Just one small dose of root of horse.” 

“Horses don’t have roots!” Lilac said, reaching forwards to hug Solitude very tight. 

“I know that!” Klaus snapped. “Usually antidotes are- are certain botanical extractions, like flower pollen or plant stems.” 

“Wait a minute.” Lilac looked up again. “That letter! That letter-” 

“What letter?” Violet asked. 

“The letter in the grotto!” Lilac said. “The writer, Kit something, she said that there was a factory making dilution-” 

“Yes!” Klaus pulled his commonplace book out, moving back to the table and sitting down to flip through it. “Here! It says that a factory at Lousy Lane-” 

“We traveled along Lousy Lane.” Violet said. 

“Smelled like horseradish.” Sunny nodded. 

They froze. 

“Horseradish!” Lilac leapt to her feet, grabbing Solitude. “Come on, we have to run!” 

They raced to the kitchen, where Lilac placed Soli onto a table again, and Nick sat beside her, clutching her very tight and quietly crying. Babbitt leapt from Soli’s shoulder to his, once again making a lot of very fast noises. 

Each of the other siblings ran to a cupboard; even Sunny, who clambered up onto a counter, managed to dig through. 

“Gum!” Lilac shouted. “There’s nothing in here but boxes of gum!” 

“I found two cans of water chestnuts and a bag of sesame seeds!” Klaus started to cry behind his glasses. 

“Here, I’ll check the fridge!” Viole said. “Maybe-” 

She threw open the door, and then froze. 

“Violet? What is it?” Lilac ran over, and Klaus followed quickly. Nick even peered up to look between them and see inside. 

Violet slowly reached onto the bottom shelf, and pulled out a plate, placing it onto the table. On the plate was a coconut cream cake, heavily frosted and with sprinkles spelling out, on the top, Violet’s Fifteenth Date. 

“That’s what the balloons were for.” Violet whispered, tears running down her face. 

“Oh my God.” Lilac put a hand over her mouth. 

“We forgot.” Klaus’s voice broke. 

“I turned fifteen last night, while you were all in the grotto, and Nick and I…” Violet whispered. “We all forgot.” 

Then quietly, Sunny said, “Soli didn’t.” They turned to the toddler on the counter, and she said, “Yad,” which meant, “She remembered the date and told me, and we were planning a party when everyone returned from the grotto, so we could all celebrate.” 

Violet blinked back tears, and then backed up as fast as she could, sliding against the wall, to the ground. “Wh-what are we going to do?” she cried. “We can’t lose Soli. We can’t lose her!” 

“Sunny!” Lilac turned to the toddler, panic in her eyes. “You know about cooking. What could be used as a substitute for horseradish?” 

Sunny considered, looking very panicked as she slid from the counter and ran to the table, trying to hoist herself up to be with her sister. “Wormwood? Um… Wasabi?” 

Klaus gaped. “Did you say wasabi?” 

Sunny nodded quickly, and Klaus opened up his pocket, and pulled out the can of wasabi. “She got this for you in the grotto. I almost forgot.” 

Sunny grabbed the can from him, opening it and cheering when she saw some inside. 

“Get her out!” Lilac said, rushing forwards and grabbing a spoon from the drawer. 

Violet ran to the toddler, and said, “Nick, you have to let her go, just for a moment, I promise.” 

Hesitantly, Nick placed Babbitt onto a spot beside him and then placed the girl onto the table, before wiping his eyes with his sleeves and helping Violet remove Solitude’s helmet. They all held their breath as the helmet came off, and then Violet slammed it onto a metal plate beside them to prevent the spores from spreading through the air. Nick helped Solitude sit up, and then held back a sob. 

Her skin was pale and had a greenish tinge, and her hair was limply hanging around her face, and her eyes were bloodshot and watery. As she opened her mouth to cough, they all let out cries as they saw gray stalks sprouting from her throat. 

She looked an inch from death. 

Lilac put the spoon into the jar of wasabi, taking as much of it as she could, and then she held it out. Solitude leaned forwards, eating it as fast as she dared, flinching at how hot it felt, her eyes watering even more. She shook and slid back so she was against Nick, who put his arms around her and pressed his face onto the top of her head. 

For a moment, it seemed like nothing would happen, and everything was lost. And then Solitude opened her mouth, as if to cough again, but they could see that instead, the mushrooms inside her throat were shrinking back, as if terrified of the wasabi. Her skin started to brighten before their eyes, and she blinked back the last of her tears, running a hand through her hair. Then she held out her tiny palm, and Babbitt leapt onto her, chirping with delight. The frog ran up her arm and onto her shoulder, pressing against her in their version of a hug. 

“W-water.” Solitude muttered, and Violet quickly ran to the sink, making her a glass of water. By the time she returned, Nick was hugging her to his chest as if he never intended to let go; he did, however, loosen a little when Violet held out the glass, and Solitude chugged the drink. 

“Th-thank you.” she stumbled, turning first to Sunny, and then the rest of her siblings in turn. “You saved me.” 

“You saved yourself.” Lilac said, kneeling in front of her. “We wouldn’t have had that wasabi if you hadn’t been thinking of Sunny.” 

“Sunny knew.” Solitude said, as Sunny gave her a hug. “You broke out of the submarine. You all saved me.” 

“But you helped yourself, too.” Klaus said. “We all saved each other.” 

Nick embraced Solitude and Sunny, and then Violet ran forwards and hugged them, too. Klaus and Lilac joined in, then, and soon they were all hugging and sobbing in the middle of the kitchen. 

[argentvive]

Dany’s Alchemist Illyrio: An Alchemist for Tyrion Too? Pt 1

I’ve just started A Dance with Dragons, and who turns up again--finally!--but Illyrio.  It’s been a long time since I talked about him and identified him as one of Dany’s alchemists, so for recent followers, here’s what I wrote.  

Illyrio Mopatis is a rich merchant of Pentos, who shelters Daenerys and Viserys at his home.  He then brokers her marriage to Drogo, fulfilling the alchemist’s  role of putting her into the crucible.  (Does anyone think Viserys has the smarts or negotiating skill to make that arrangement?)    

What is Illyrio’s motivation for helping the impoverished Targaryen heirs?  All we’re told is that he is seeking the Targaryen restoration in hope of being named Master of Coin.  (This is actually a bit of an alchemy joke.  A real alchemist would be the best possible choice for Master of Coin, since he could  use his transmutation skills to produce all the gold and silver any monarch could need.)

I wonder whether there is more to the story.  How do the two come under his protection in the first place?  And where exactly is the house with the Red Door? How was Daenerys educated?  Jon was taught duty and right from wrong by Ned Stark, Maester Luwin and the rest.  Who did the same for Daenerys?  Maybe we’ll find out more when the final books are published.  As of now, though, we can definitely say that Daenerys had far less guidance than Jon–and terrible guidance actually when you think of Viserys’ endless I am the dragon rants.  It’s no wonder she acts erratically from time to time.  

Illyrio turning Dany over to Drogo and the scythe-wielding Dothraki formally places her in the NIGREDO (black) stage.  (The scythe is standard iconography for the god Saturn, who is a symbol for the nigredo; see my earlier post.)  Illyrio doesn’t leave her defenceless.  As her alchemist he must give her a gift–and it’s a doozy.  He gives her three dragon eggs as a wedding present, though as far as we know he doesn’t realize they are alive and hatchable. 

The eggs eventually become not only her children but the source of her power.  Illyrio’s gift is even more significant than Mormont’s gift of Longclaw to Jon, though in both cases our heroes receive a weapon.  

After playing his crucial role selling Dany to the Dothraki in GOT, we don’t see Illyrio again until Tyrion I of ADWD.  Jaime and Varys rescue Tyrion from King’s Landing and have him transported in a round wine cask across the sea.

The world went round and round as the cask rolled downward....

Tyrion ends up at Illyrio’s house.  On the show, Illyrio doesn’t appear and his role in goading Tyrion to change his life is taken by Varys.

 I will discuss the scene as it appears in the book, not the show.

Tyrion’s name is quite alchemical, as I’ve discussed before.  (Tyrion is a homonym for Tirian, the king of Narnia, and both spellings refer to Tyrian purple, the red-purple color of the Philosopher’s Stone.) But until now, I haven’t noticed Tyrion going through the usual stages and experiences of being an alchemy hero.  He loses his nose-a minor dismemberment--but that’s about all.

In Tyrion I, however, alchemy is everywhere.  He wanders into the walled courtyard and sees a woman “washing clothes at a well.”  This is promising: washing clothes symbolizes the washing of the Stone.  You may remember Mrs. Weasley washing the Trio’s clothes in the final Harry Potter book.  Laundry day didn’t add anything to the plot; Rowling simply included it as a nod to Plate 21 in the famous Splendor Solis series.  

http://www.hermetics.org/solis/solis21.html

Tyrion talks to her about what he should do now, join the Night Watch perhaps? 

“...Do you think I might stand taller in black my lady?...Shall I atone for old sins or make some new ones?”

This is very clever.  GRRM has already established the Night Watch as the nigredo experience for Jon Snow: the brothers all wear black, they are called crows, most live in Castle Black, and Jon undergoes the Black Death there.  Is Tyrion experiencing his own nigredo now?   He is certainly questioning his past life and thinking about his life to come.  He speaks to the laundry “flapping on the line.” 

Next he spies some mushrooms.  After a glancing mention of black, we now get white and red.  Albedo and rubedo?  

...he saw some mushrooms growing up from a cracked paving tile.  Pale white they were, with speckles, and red-ribbed undersides dark as blood.  The dwarf snapped one off and sniffed it.  Delicious, he thought, and deadly.

As far as I know, mushrooms are not a symbol of anything in alchemy.  Adam McLean’s website identifies only one use of mushrooms symbolically, in Shigeo Otake’s Kinoko Tarot of 1995, which includes 22 paintings, each associated with a species of mushroom.  The chance that GRRM knew about this is close to nil, I think.

GRRM needs a way to test Tyrion, however, and poisonous mushrooms is a way to do it.  He makes sure to let us know that Tyrion believes them to be “deadly.”  

Up to now, Tyrion has been consistently portrayed as a drinker, whoremonger, and master of sarcasm and cutting insults.  But after his time in the wine barrel, this begins to change.  He refuses the bedmate Illyrio has sent him, and swallows the insult that comes to his mind: “The words were on his tongue, but somehow never passed his lips.”  (Something similar happened with Jaime along his path to transformation.)  Instead, he asks for a bath.

Yes, a bath--the easiest and most common way GRRM incorporates the dissolution stage of solve et coagula into the books.   After the bath, we see a few small changes in Tyrion.  A stark realization--I despise myself--and a confession to his murder of Shae.  

He is now ready for the dinner with Illyrio that will forever change the direction of Tyrion’s life.  Illyrio is revoltingly fat, but among the many rings he wears are a ruby and a sapphire, symbols of the Philosopher’s Stone.  He wastes no time in getting to the point:

“There are troubles in the east. Astapor has fallen, and Meereen. Ghiscari slave cities that were old when the world was young.”

When Tyrion points out that “Slaver’s Bay is a long way from Pentos,” Illyrio responds with a metaphor that recalls the most basic idea of alchemy, the One.

“...the world is one great web, and a man dare not touch a single strand lest all the others tremble.”

Or as the English metaphysical poet John Donne puts it, “No man is an island.”

No man is an island entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main; if a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, as well as if a promontory were, as well as any manner of thy friends or of thine own were; any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind. And therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee. 

[ultradigitalposts-blog]

Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Social Media Marketing (But Were Afraid to Ask)

The live visits at the Vocus online class half a month prior were fabulously enthusiastic and enlightening, with members replying just as posing inquiries that were presented to the booked speakers, Deidre Breakenridge, David Meerman Scott, Beth Harte, Lee Odden and Brian Solis. As time was tight, not all the inquiries were replied to, so we thought we'd scoop some up from the logs and attempt to give a few bits of knowledge. 

Q1: How would I increment my Twitter following? 

This was a typical inquiry, yet there's no fast answer (except if you utilize a mass-after instrument, which may help your numbers yet won't really give you an advantageous crowd that incorporates significant influencers) - it tends to be a moderate form, nonetheless, there are approaches to have any kind of effect: 

• Write content that individuals need to peruse! Bit self-evident, however simply spieling out publicizing isn't the most delectable trap. Compose fascinating and valuable articles and blog entries and connections to them; make infographics, recordings, slideshows and share them; mention shrewd and clever objective facts; share content by others that you figure your adherents will discover supportive. Give them motivation to tail you and retweet you. 

• Search for your crowd and tail them - in case you're doing the main point all around ok, they're probably going to tail you back. Utilize any of the various Twitter applications and web indexes to search for pertinent individuals and influencers who might be keen on what you need to state. 

• Get engaged with Twitter visits to associate with your pertinent crowd - this is an extraordinary chance to offer guidance, conclusions and information to key individuals who may become adherents a while later. Robert Swanwick (@swanwick) has gathered a Twitter Chat Master List where you can locate the correct subject for you. 

• Find an approach to interface what you're stating to effective topics and hashtagged subjects - this gives you a more focused crowd when individuals look for those terms and watchwords. 

• Finally, give a motivating force once in a while - run surveys, rivalries, advancements to draw in and reward your steadfast devotees, and urge more individuals to tail you. 

Q2: How would I be able to make my blog progressively powerful? 

It's anything but difficult to feel that your blog is lost in the universe, yet there are approaches to build its perceivability and lift traffic. 

• Just like being referred to 1, content is vital - compose posts that are enlightening, valuable, fascinating and locks in. See this post for a more top to bottom guide on the most proficient method to compose an incredible blog. 

• Optimize - simply like your site, ensure that you are executing catchphrases, joins and other SEO strategies to guarantee that your blog can be found and positioned via web indexes. Register with blog catalogs, for example, Technorati or PostRank to add to the spots you can be looked for, and to watch out for your blog measurements. 

• Network your blog with other social media stages, similar to Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn - connect up your RSS channel, or physically connect to presents you need on push out there. 

• Comment on important destinations and web journals - not with silly spam guiding individuals to your webpage, yet with veritable, nice remarks. In the event that individuals acknowledge what you're stating, they'll navigate to your blog to perceive what else you've thought of. 

• Search for different bloggers in your field who you could welcome to visitor blog (or blog trade), making a backlink and an intriguing new inclination for your blog. 

• above all, compose posts that create discussion - your crowd will be constrained to remark, share, and your traffic will develop. 

• Distribute: get your posts bookmarked, transfer them to significant locales, duplicate them to article-sharing destinations and so on - the more places they can be discovered, the more they will be perused. 

Q3: What's the best possible Twitter behavior in common after? 

All things considered, it depends how incredible and persuasive you are - in case you're such a top dog you're trailed by 20K and just tail one in those days bravo, however you won't get much out of the social part of Twitter! 

You don't need to follow each individual who tails you, however disregarding each and every individual who attempts to interface with you invalidates the point of Twitter and can be, well, somewhat impolite. Pick those whose tweets you really need to peruse and discover valuable. On the off chance that somebody's tailed you that you would prefer not to add to your following rundown, at that point in any event send them a "thank you for following" customized message to show your appreciation. It's helpful to take note of that you can likewise add individuals to records without tailing them. 

Q4: How would I use YouTube for marketing? 

YouTube fills in as an independent web search tool that is turning out to be increasingly more remarkable inside social media and SEO. Utilizing it as a marketing instrument truly relies upon your business, your points and your substance, yet there are a few different ways to utilize YouTube as a social media marketing apparatus: 

• Set up your own channel, where you can have your recordings, connection to your site/blog/social media profiles, have conversations and answer questions. 

• Use slideshows or infographic recordings to back up a blog entry or key point. 

• Give out some close to home and neighborhood data - show an off camera of your organization or area, present your staff, give an introduction on something that is imperative to you and your business. 

• Document contextual investigations. 

• Film interviews with key organization individuals, clients, partners and so forth. 

• Have some fun - don't pay attention to yourself as well (and yet, don't make an absolute arse of yourself!) 

• Make instructional and 'How-To' recordings - these make up a great deal of the pursuit content inside YouTube, as it's a lot simpler to gain from viewing an exhibition than from perusing a clarification. 

When you've transferred a video, share it and disseminate it by means of other social media stages - install in your website, your blog, connection to it from Twitter and Facebook, add it to Vimeo - the rundown goes on. Get your substance out there! 

Q5: How would I measure/screen the ROI of social media? 

This is the enormous one, and sadly, the appropriate response isn't especially direct. The principal activity is quite attempting to fit social media into a conventional measured marketing box. The reason and aftereffects of social media marketing are less substantial than a PPC battle, or public statement dispatch - social media influences the range and impact of your organization, which thus will influence its prevalence and your site's traffic, or consciousness of your image, which thusly will influence deals, transformations and benefit. So how would you measure commitment? 

Right off the bat, set up observing devices - there are a huge amount of free apparatuses out there, however you may locate that most just spread explicit zones of the measurements you are after, so you should utilize a few all the while, or various devices for various investigations. 

To utilize these instruments adequately, you have to have a point or objective as a main priority - what are you attempting to quantify or follow? The quantity of supporters or fans isn't the main concern - you have to take a gander at how those devotees are communicating with you, regardless of whether they are spreading your message, whether they are directing people to your site and the sky's the limit from there. Concentrate on a target and measure the fitting measurements. Here are a few instances of viewpoints you should watch: 

• Influence 

• Click-throughs 

• Site hits 

• Re-tweets/makes reference to 

• Followers 

• Fans/Likes 

• Interactions 

• Increased time nearby 

• Sharing of your substance 

• Comments 

• Backlinks 

• RSS endorsers 

• Image/video sees 

• Number of bookmarks 

For instance, you've composed a blog entry on your business' new item - you distribute it, circulate it, connecting to the pertinent page on your website. Presently you have to keep tabs on its development. For this situation, you'd need to take a gander at what number of snap throughs you get to the item point of arrival, how much new site traffic you get, regardless of whether individuals are sharing this data among their companions. Screen these viewpoints through every one of the social stages you distribute the data on - and from that point you will have the option to perceive how social media influences the quantity of changes/deals from every territory. 

Q6: How would I show the estimation of social media to my chief/unsure administrators? 

Another well known inquiry, particularly for organizations simply beginning with social media marketing. Frequently, organizations, or those working above advertisers, don't see the moment consequences of a social media nearness (or, as in the point above, are not accepting focused on investigation to demonstrate its worth). 

In the first place, accumulate data on how contenders and different organizations in your field are using social media - see what works, how they're communicating, and if it's affecting their image. In the event that you have no social media nearness, odds are that somebody who might be listening is discussing you (or your line of business) at any rate - proceed to research and see what inquiries individuals are posing, what issues they're facing and what they need from you. 

Second, discover where your clients are, and where you ought to be - in which social media network would it be a good idea for you to make a nearness for yourself? On the off chance that your crowd are huge Twitter communicators, get conversing with them; on the off chance that they stand around YouTube, transfer a few recordings and get remarks and perspectives. Discover your specialty and get settled in it. 

Third, take a model from question 5 above, and show your executives some hard raw numbers - and clarify the intensity of reverberation associated with social media, how it can reinforce your image, make significant associations with clients and go about as an awesome client support stage. 

Q7: What's the most ideal approach to utilize social media for a Non-Profit association? 

I think beginning speculation is that it's harder for a non-benefit association to advertise themselves, since they are not offering assistance or an item in retail terms. As opposed to this supposition, I accept that non-benefits really can do outstandingly well with social media. The very idea of social media collaboration associates like minded people.

[federico-rondelli-naba]

Videogames for humans: Eden

Il Videogioco fin da subito ci consiglia di attivare l’audio per una “riproduzione ottimale” di esso.

Inizialmente ci chiede di inserire il prorpio nome, per poter trasportarci all’interno del gioco.

Something isn't right today. You don't know what it is.

But you do have a feeling.

Una sensazione, una sensazione di qualcosa che è andato storto.

You have this strange and eerie feeling SOMETHING is going to happen, but you have no idea what it is.

That is, until....

Qalcosa è andato proprio storto.

That is until your supervisor shows you the lab's new specimen. "We're not sure what it is," he says. "But it can't be human."

You take a look.

Guardi di cosa si tratta.

You take a look at the specimen and try to conceal your horror. "Are you sure it isn't human?" you ask. Your supervisor just shrugs.

"Keep an eye on it," he says. "I'll be back in a few minutes." Then, save for the "specimen" in the holding cell, he leaves you all alone.

You feel conflicted.

Ti senti in conflitto con l’essere.

The creature in the cage looks like a person to you. Different, perhaps, but either human or so close that it hardly matters.

"What's your name?" you ask, hands curled around the bars.

The specimen... no the prisoner wearily shakes their head.

You decide to rescue the prisoner.

o

No. It's safer to keep your distance.

No, è troppo pericoloso, meglio non avvicinarsi. Questa è la prima volta che si può scegliere cosa fare.

You stay put and don't say a word, never meeting the prisoner's eyes. They'd never keep a human in here, you console yourself. You almost believe it.

Then, you wake up.

Ti svegli.

You've had the same dream for three nights in a row. (Well, actually, the last three mornings since you're on the night shift.) It never ends quite the same. Maybe you're just THAT depressed your vacation is ending now.

Anyway, it's time to get ready. Who do you see in the mirror?

I'm a woman.

O

I'm a man.

O

I'm neither, actually.

Il videogioco cerca di capire di che sesso sei, ora addirittura si ha tre scelte.

I could use a shave, you think. You shower, you groom, you dress, you grab breakfast.

Time to face the day.

Dopo questo ricorrente sogno, è giunta l’ora di affrontare la giornata.

You get to work on time like you always do. After all, getting ahead takes making a good impression.

Hang up your coat.

Appena arrivati al lavoro appendiamo il nostro cappotto, sembra un azione abituale.

You put away your coat and head for lab A-3.

You exchange polite hellos with co-workers on the way, but everybody knows you're not much of a talker.

So, what's up?

Questa è un'altra emozione che proviamo, come va?

When you get to lab A-3, almost no one is there. You ask an acquaintance named Kyra, "What's going on?"

She tells you, "Check B-2. While you were gone, they brought in a real, live alien and everyone wants a look."

"Are you sure it's all right?" you ask.

She says, "It's fine. I'll cover for you. Besides, Jones is there and he wants to see you." Jones being your supervisor, who's called you "brilliant" before.

Go to Lab B-2

Andiamo a vedere quell’essere nel laboratorio, sembra proprio come nel sogno.

Phones aren't allowed in the basement labs, so you leave yours in your mini-locker. You go to lab B-2, where they keep the most secret of secrets—even for this place. You only earned clearance a week ago and you're eager to see what's inside.

You swipe your card through scanner. The door unlocks. You go inside. You notice there's a card reader inside the room as well—likely an added precaution to help keep whatever's in here from escaping.

Everyone is "Ooh"ing and "Aaah"ing over the new specimen that's in the cell in the corner. You nudge your way through the crowd and... and....

Oh my God.

La sensazione di curiosità che si prova, sarà come nel sogno?

Huddled behind those cold steel bars is the most beautiful creature. Beautiful... and if not human, close enough that it hardly matters. You're absolutely haunted by this creature... no, this person's mournful eyes.

The captive is wearing loose gray prison clothes—pants and a short-sleeved shirt. You believe this ethereal being....

Is male.

O Is female.

O Is neither.

O Is MESMERIZING. You'll work out the details later.

Questa creatura è ipnotizzante, mesmerizzante.

This person is simply beautiful, beautiful beyond reason. You've never seen anything like them before and doubt you will again.

"What... how...?" you ask Jones. It's difficult right now to voice coherent thoughts. Luckily, he knows what you mean.

"We're calling it Eden," Jones replies. "Agents discovered it three days ago in a field not far from here, captured it and brought it in for study. We believe it's an alien lifeform."

"Can they speak?"

"It seems physically capable of speech, but we don't know its language. And that's why I wanted to see you."

Why me?

Ci chiediamo perché proprio noi. La musica di sottofondo continua.

"Why me?" you ask.

"Several of us have tried already, but the creature won't respond. Essentially, it's your turn." As good an answer as any.

You kneel in front of Eden's cell. "Hello," you say quietly so as not to frighten them. "You probably don't understand me, but... I'm not here to hurt you."

Send them away, whispers a gentle voice in your mind. Please. Send them away.

You blink in surprise since it isn't your voice. It must belong to Eden. It sounds....

Exactly like you'd expect.

O Different somehow.

Non è come me lo aspettavo.

Their voice is calming, like autumn rain.

You also think that Eden's voice seems....

More ethereal than you expected.

O More lyrical than you expected.

L’essere è lirico, non me lo aspettavo.

Eden's voice is even more lyrical than you expected, and a perfect match for Eden's androgynous beauty.

But back to Eden's request.

Ritorniamo alla richiesta di Eden.

Eden asked you to clear the room. You look back and say, "Eden is telepathic. They asked me to ask everyone else to leave."

Silence. The other scientists exchange puzzled looks and mumurs about the brain scans they took and how they were "different" from a human's.

"All right," Jones says. "But I want a full report on your findings."

Now, it's time to talk to Eden.

Iniziamo a parlare da soli con Eden.

You ask Eden: Where are you from?

O Why are you here?

O Why did you pick ME?

O Eden, how are you feeling?

O Can you tell me your real name?

Come si chiamerà Eden?

You say, "I'm sure your real name isn't Eden. That's just the name they gave you. If it's all right, could you tell me your real name?"

Eden smiles. "Maybe later. But not yet."

Ask more questions.

Gli facciamo altre domande.

You ask Eden: Where are you from?

O Why are you here?

O Why did you pick ME?

O Eden, how are you feeling?

O Can you tell me your real name? (Already asked) -Or-

That's enough questions for now.

Perché mi ha scelto?

You ask Eden, "Why did you choose to talk to me?"

Eden says, "Give me your hand." You do. Then, they answers you.

I sensed you were different from the others. That maybe... you might help me.

Ask more questions? That's enough questions for now.

Gli faccio altre domande.

You ask Eden: Where are you from?

O Why are you here?

O Why did you pick ME?  

O Eden, how are you feeling? (Already asked)

O Can you tell me your real name? (Already asked) -Or- That's enough questions for now.

Perché sei qui?’

Eden looks away. "There were rumors about life in this part of the universe. I wanted to see for myself, though I was warned not to." Ask more questions? -Or- That's enough questions for now.

Gli faccio ancora altre domande.

You ask Eden: Where are you from?

O Why are you here? (Already asked)

O Why did you pick ME? (Already asked)

O Eden, how are you feeling?

O Can you tell me your real name? (Already asked)

O NEW: What kind of warning? -Or- That's enough questions for now.

sChe avvertimento ti hanno dato?

Frowning, you ask, "What kind of warning did they give you?" You already suspect the answer.

Eden looks away and says, "That... the rumored lifeforms here were dangerous." Which is about what you expected. Ask more questions? -Or- That's enough questions for now.

Sono curioso, altre domande.

You ask Eden: Where are you from?

O Why are you here? (Already asked)

O Why did you pick ME? (Already asked)

O Eden, how are you feeling?

O Can you tell me your real name? (Already asked)

O What kind of warning? (Already asked) -Or- That's enough questions for now.

Di dove è l’essere?

You ask Eden, "Where are you from?"

Eden tells you in the gentlest (and weariest) voice you've ever heard, "A world we call Mekkari. It's... quite far from here." Ask more questions? -Or- That's enough questions for now.

Gli faccio ancora delle domande.

You ask Eden: Where are you from? (Already asked) Why are you here? (Already asked) Why did you pick ME? (Already asked) Eden, how are you feeling? Can you tell me your real name? (Already asked) NEW: What's Mekkari like? What kind of warning? (Already asked) -Or- That's enough questions for now.

Cos’è Mekkari?

You ask, "What's Mekkari like?"

Eden gives you a ghost of a smile. "It's a wonderful, wonderful place. Peaceful. Beautiful. I'd really like to go home." Ask more questions? -Or- That's enough questions for now.

Gli faccio un ultima domanda.

You ask Eden: Where are you from? (Already asked) Why are you here? (Already asked) Why did you pick ME?(Already asked) Eden, how are you feeling? Can you tell me your real name? (Already asked) What's Mekkari like? (Already asked) What kind of warning? (Already asked) -Or- That's enough questions for now.

You ask Eden gently, "Eden, how are you feeling?"

Eden stares at you for a long time. "You're the first one here to ask me that sincerely," they say softly.

Their eyes are shining with tears. "Thank you. I am.... I've been better." Ask more questions? -Or- That's enough questions for now.

Ha risposto ad abbastanza domande per ora.

You and Eden both are silent for a while. You feel sorry for their being held captive like this, but what can YOU do? You're not in charge of anything here. Try to console Eden.

O Try to reach Eden with your thoughts. Consolo Eden.

"I wish I could help you," you tell Eden. "I don't have much influence here, but if there's anything I can do to make things better for you...."

"I know," Eden says. "You'll try." Maybe... there's a way?

O It's just too risky.

Ci sarà un modo?

Since Eden can reach you mind-to-mind, you decide to see if it can work the other way.

With all your concentration, you think, Eden. Can you hear me?

Eden answers, Yes.

Is there anything you can tell me that might help me get you out of here? Things you've noticed? Certain abilities you have?

Eden says, If I'm close enough, I can "communicate" with technology and alter it with my mind. I can do it most accurately with things I'm actually touching. I can sense the presence of other living beings. And I doubt they've found my ship since it was cloaked when I left it. If I could use something as a tracking device, I could find my way back to it.

Do they know what you can do?

They only know about my telepathy. And that's only because of today.

Hmm. Figure out your next steps.

O You're having second thoughts.

Penso a cosa fare.

You're not sure about this anymore. If the others found you out, at best you'd lose your job. At worst.... Well, since the lab itself doesn't even exist on paper, you'd rather not think about that. But you have to try

O You can't. It's just too dangerous.

Potrei tentare.

You and Eden work out a plan. Communicating mind-to-mind makes it go by quickly.

Eden's technomancy skills can turn your card into a master key. They can likely disable security cameras and alarms as well, provided they can get close enough—and in very little time since destruction takes a lot less nuance than recreation. (You're glad they haven't tried that with the lock on they cell. Cell locks STAY locked if they're tampered with at all.) Also, perhaps most importantly, they can reconfigure any smartphone locate their ship.

Since the cell has a keycard lock (located across the room and out of Eden's range), freeing them won't be a problem. The problem is that after that, you need to get them out of the building without getting caught.

First, though, you take out your keycard so Eden can work their magic. You do your best to keep it hidden from camera view, knowing there's one behind you pointed directly at the cell.

It's done, Eden says after a minute or so. It can open any electronic lock now. You put the card back in your lab coat pocket.

Now, you can free Eden. But first.... You need to get your smartphone.

O No, Nab a phone on the way out.

Ho bisogno del mio cellulare prima.s

Getting your phone first risks Jones coming back before you've freed Eden. But you want to have all the pieces in place before you set the plan into action. I'm going to get my smartphone, you tell Eden. Then, I'll be right back.

Eden says, Okay.

You swipe your card through the reader and go back to the hallway.

Ritorno nel corridoio.

Time is of the essence, so you try to get this done as quickly as possible, i go back to the hallway.

Ritorno nel corridoio.

You head back into the hallway and try to act natural. You left your phone upstairs in lab A-3, and time is of the essence.

You've almost reached the stairs... and you're stopped by a new "fan." Crap. What does he want?

Cosa vuole?

"I can't believe Eden spoke to you," he says.

"Yeah, that was really something," you say, trying to get past him. "Look, I'm in a hurry."

But he's not good at taking a hint.

Non sono bravo a fare queste cose.

You STILL wish this guy would find someone else to talk to. He just goes ON AND ON. And he won't shut up.

La smetterà di parlare?

You eventually manage to give him the brush-off, but he did waste your time.

You can get to the stairs, finaly.

But maybe it's not worth the risk.

Posso arrivare alle scale finalmente.

a Quickly, you run up the stairs.

And right into the last person you wanted to see.

Non la dovevo beccare.

Jones is headed right your way—and in all likelihood, back to lab B-2. You need to convince him to give you more time with Eden.

"Ah, fede," Jones says. "Do you have anything to report?"

"I'd like more time alone with Eden," you say. "I hope that's all right." You hope you were convincing.

Jones doesn't answer right away. "Well...."

Menomale, mi ha dato più tempo.

Jones says, "Hmm. Well, take what time you need. I'll check on you later." Seems you were lucky. Just barely. Maybe you shouldn't press your luck.

So. What will you do? Head back to the lab RIGHT NOW.

O Keep going and get your phone.

Cerco di prendere il mio telefono.

You're upstairs already, so you might as well keep going. Lab A-3 isn't that far.

Head for lab A-3.

Mi dirigo verso il laboratorio.

You reach lab A-3 without incident, and your phone is right where you left it. You hurry back to Eden.

Ora torno da Eden.

Luck is on your side today. When you return to Eden with your phone, there's still no one else in the lab.

Presently, Eden seems very focused on the camera on the wall. Trying to connect with it, maybe...?

Anyway, you tell Eden, I'm going to unlock your cell. Then you can disable the camera and get out.

Eden says, All right. It's Showtime.

L’ora è giunta.

Quickly and subtly, you unlock Eden's cell and walk to the door, waiting for Eden to take care of the camera. You hear an odd crackling sound; the room's lights flicker into darkness and the emergency lights near the floor come on. You reopen the lab door with your keycard. A peek into the hall confirms that power has gone out.

It might be overkill, but it's useful overkill. Regular staff will be leaving now. However, with such a suspicious outage (and perhaps suspicious camera footage), it seems like a sure thing they'll be sending in some guards to investigate.

Once you've confirmed the coast is clear, you tell Eden, "Let's go." Since you already have a phone, that's one less risk you'll need to take during your escape. But, you realize, a disguise for Eden might come in handy. You can likely pick one up in the basement storage room.

Time is of the essence, especially if you alert the guards.

Rush ahead while it looks clear.

O Better to be cautious.

Meglio essere cauti, molto cauti.

It's a good thing you held back. A guard just rounded the corner. Get back in, you tell Eden. I'll hide behind that counter and HOPE he doesn’t come in.

Speriamo non entri nessuno.

The guard walks into the room. He sees Eden is still in their cell (but hasn't noticed it's unlocked) and hasn't spotted you yet.

So, what now? Every option has its risks.... Make a break for it with Eden.

O Keep hiding.

O Grab that digital scale from under the counter just in case.

Continuo a nascondermi.

You decide to keep hiding and hope for the best.

Then, the guard squints at the green light that shows Eden's cell is unlocked. He reaches for both his keycard and a gun. Grab the scale.

O You and Eden RUN

Afferro la scala.

You're a little panicky as you grab the scale. Luckily, you're still together enough to run up behind the guard and whack him with it before he knows what's happened.

Lo colpisco.

SMASH!

You can also ask what Eden suggests. Crap. He's still standing! o

Hit him again!

O

Grab Eden and RUN!

Lo colpisco di nuovo.

What does Eden suggest to me?

Cosa mi suggerisce Eden?

You ask Eden, Should we get the disguise or just go?

Eden says, My feeling is a disguise might make us safer. Take Eden's suggestion.

O Just RUN.

Prendo il suo suggerimento e travesto Eden.

You've reached the Storage Room.

Raggiungo il ripostiglio.

Time seems to pass more slowly in this room for some reason. You can spend as much time here as you need.

Following Eden's suggestion, you return to the storage room. This does seems like a good time to get a disguise for them.

There are plenty of scientist uniforms in here as well as sundry junk from the Lost and Found. You hand Eden a uniform as well as a pair of glasses and something to tie back their hair. That should do in this dim lighting.

Eden immediately starts undressing right in front of you and doesn't seem especially modest. You're still not 100% sure of Eden's sex and you can't help being curious. Looking away seems more courteous.

O ONE quick peek. Eden doesn't seem to mind. 

Un veloce sguardo dai.

Eden doesn't seem to mind, so you guess it's all right to look as long as you don't stare. A cursory glance reveals that Eden is definitely male.

Normally, you're attracted to.... Men

O Women

O Nonbinary people

O Whoever looks attractive, regardless.

Sono attratto dalle donne.

You're normally attracted to women. But Eden is so beautiful. Is it possible he's an exception? Okay, time to go.

Dobbiamo andare.

Now that your business here is done, it's time to.... Get out of here.

O Or risk a little exploring.

Andiamo subito via.

You have a phone and Eden's disguise. It's time to get out of here.

Andiamo.

Please oh PLEASE let us make it to the exit....

A guard is running after you and Eden. You want to make a break for it, but Eden says, Wait. He's not hostile. So, both of you wait where you are and try to act natural.

"What are you still doing here?" the guard asks breathlessly. "All non-security personnel are supposed to evacuate!"

"We're leaving right now," you assure the guard. He goes back to patrolling the area.

It looks like you're home free.

Sembra ci sia via libera.

Once you're safely away from the complex, Eden reconfigures your phone. He laughs when he sees where the ship is.

"It isn't far from here," Eden says. "It's right through these woods."

And that's where you go.

Andiamoci subito.

Once you've reached the supposed right place, Eden holds out his hands and focuses with all his might. After a minute, his ship appears, silvery and shining like a vaguely sphere-shaped star.

Eden's face is bright with hope. "Thank you so much," he says. He really are incomparably beautiful, especially his eyes. When you look in them, you see.... A quiet strength and thoughtfulness beyond anything you've known.

O The enchanting purity of Eden's bright and loving nature.

O The wonder of a place so very far away.

Vedo nei suoi occhi la purezza.

Once you've reached the supposed right place, Eden holds out his hands and focuses with all his might. After a minute, his ship appears, silvery and shining like a vaguely sphere-shaped star.

Eden's face is bright with hope. "Thank you so much," he says. He really are incomparably beautiful, especially his eyes. When you look in them, you see....

Respect Eden's wishes.

O Throw caution to the wind.

Rispetto Eden.

Since you're not sure Eden wants to be kissed, you choose to hold back.

"Thank you again," Eden says.

You tell Eden, "I would do it all again." Eden gives you a nod and smile and walks towards his ship.

It looks like this is the end. That doesn't mean it is.

Non è per forza finita.

Running after Eden, you shout, "Wait! Please, can I come with you?"

Eden blinks. "Are you sure?"

You nod. "Absolutely. I doubt there's much left for me here, and I'd love to see your world."

Eden's smile is as enchanting as the full moon overhead. "I'm so glad you said that," he says. "Follow me." You board Eden's ship.

Salgo a bordo della nave.

The flight to Eden's world seems to be over in an instant.

"Welcome to Mekkari," Eden says, opening the ship's hatch. "I hope you like it here."

You take a look at your new home.

Do un occhiata.

Eden's homeworld is simply amazing.

Il suo pianeta è fantastico.

You never could have imagined such a pristine and marvelous place.

Un posto magnifico.

The only thing more perfect... is the person who brought you here. But you're curious.

"Eden," you ask, "what's your real name? Can you tell me now?"

"It's Aevra," he replies. It suits him very well. Then, Eden... no, Aevra asks, "What's yours?"

"It's Fede," you say.

Aevra smiles. "I like that very much."

Neither of you speaks for a while. Then, Aevra breaks the silence saying, "You hoped I was a woman, didn't you."

You admit, "Yeah. I did."

"Does knowing that I'm not change anything for you?

You think about that for a while and give Aevra your honest answer. "Maybe a little."

O "Not in the least."

Forse.

You admit, "Maybe a little."

Aevra says, "I understand. I appreciate your honesty—and hopefully, your friendship."

You smile. "Absolutely. And thanks." There are worse things to have in one's life than a kind and pleasant friend, especially one who has taken you to a world beyond the stars.

End.

Questo videogioco secondo me è davvero bello, sembra di leggere un libro. Entri con l’immaginazione nella storia infatti ho immaginato ogni scena e ogni scelta che ho fatto, ogni scelta ti fa pensare alle possibili conseguenze. Non serve alcuna grafica, bastano le parole, la vostra immaginazione farà il resto.

[daetur]

Making It Worse (Dyrihm Personal Event Log, Part 4)

Rey continues his charade as Solis’s new Forsaken contact “Kion,” but gets carried away as he joins the Knight to learn more about what exactly Solis does with the souls he harvests.

|| A letter awaits Rey in the mailbox outside Blackwell's home, written in blocky, hasty handwriting. "Kion! Excellent news. New shipment of souls from Icecrown came in today. Several constructs prepared for use, if you'd like to see the process! Also a good time to exchange news. You know where to find me. Solis"

Solis appears to be checking the contents of a smallish crate, bent over next to a long table where an abomination lies. He is muttering to himself.

Reyanel adjusts his scarf, making sure it properly cowled his face and hair…he should have just asked Nob for his cowl again. Making sure his Undercity tabard was tucked at his belt, in view but not on, Rey slowly approached, falling into the mock soldier's step.

[Reyanel]: Oi.

Reyanel greets coarsely.

Solis turns, immediately waving Rey closer. "Kion, hello! You got my letter, then, yes?"

Reyanel inwardly winces at the name.  Fucking... "Yea, sure did.  What ya cookin' up today?"

Solis lifts a vial out of the crate. Something dark, wispy, and familiar swirls inside. "Half a dozen in this week," he says. "Going to try a few experiments with this handsome fellow." He waves towards the abomination. "I've been having some trouble lately with resistance from the collected souls, you see. Need to work out the kinks." Solis smiles. "We can chat while I work? Or- we, if you'd like to assist, of course."

Reyanel almost wants to ask where in the void Solis managed to get six souls. But. He thinks for now he's just better of not knowing. "Me? Nah, I'll chip in 'elp if ya need it. Don't wanna mess up ya fine work when I don't know what ya workin' on exactly." A true enough statement. Rey might also just want to see what exactly he's dealing with here before showing off his own abilities.

Reyanel eyes the abomination.  

Reyanel | What a disgusting thing.  This is why he wasn't in charge of those unholy knights.

Solis nods, amenable. "Sensible, sensible. I'll let you know if I need, then. Now," he approaches the abomination, one vial in hand. "Getting this many in a shipment is unusual, so it's a perfect time to try a few things- I usually favor gargoyles, myself, but nothing beats an abomination for durability. The thought is, the more powerful body can curb the soul's lingering resistance." He cracks open the vial, and gently, almost lovingly, coaxes it free, into the core of the fleshy mound before him. "Takes a few for it to settle. Did you meet with my other contacts? Didn't give you any trouble, I hope," he continues, with absolutely no preamble.

Reyanel watches the process closely, interest sparking in his eyes and he takes a step forward without thinking much about it. "Didn't manage to see ya folks in person, thought I'd send a message first before just hittin' 'em up out o' the blue." He pauses, circling a bit to see the abomination better. "Did get someone to drop names of some Knights ya might be interested in. Alliance though but they're just as bad off as City Knights."

Solis raises an eyebrow. "Did you now? I can certainly use that- treason knows no faction, so to speak. And neither do raw materials." He chuckles at his own joke as the abomination begins to stir, at which point he immediately quiets, and takes on an intense focus. With the slow motion of a hand, he forces the creature to rise into a sitting position, awkwardly crunching its bloated belly. He makes a satisfied sound as it meekly turns its head to look at him. "So far so good."

Reyanel can't help a low snort.  Raw materials indeed.  But as the abomination sits up, Rey stares at it, watching its timid movements. "Won't be that good in battle, if it ain't stiff-spined."

Reyanel hates abominations so much.  Getting strung through with its chain one too many times really sours a guy's opinion.

Solis tsks. "Not to fret," he says. "I simply don't want it swinging at me the moment it wakes, so I exert a bit more of my will than strictly necessary." He lowers the hand, and the abomination rolls off the table, guts squelching wetly. It growls, previously docile expression replaced very much with rage, but it does not move. Solis tsks again, this time a touch frustrated. "The problem with using souls harvested like this is their disagreeability," he comments, peering at the abomination. It stares back, but seems unable to move.

Reyanel watches the abomination just...roll off the table, refraining from sighing. "I don't suppose you have considered breaking the spirit in question before harvesting them?" He almost forgets his accent but he continues onward. "Stem out the disobedience before harvestin' so they're agreeable once taken."

Solis snorts. "Of course! That's always been tried and true, but the problem is, it's not been tried much with Knights before. We just don't respond to torture as well as I'd like, as a rule. There are exceptions, of course, but..." He waves a hand at the abomination. "This was probably a Knight or Scarlet. They're usually the problems."

[Solis]: My partners do try, of course.

Reyanel peers at the abomination.  "The ones in Icecrown, yea? Ya mentioned 'em before."

Reyanel has a lot of ideas....about this soul manipulation.....

Solis nods. "Yes, they use the old Cathedrals up there for their work. Largely forgotten, after the Northrend campaign. Excellent locations, all around the Citadel." He sounds slightly distracted, as he begins to probe at the growling abomination with a shadowy hand.

Reyanel hums lowly, watching that shadow hand with a raised brow partially covered in his makeshift cowl. "Fuckin' surprised ya managed to get any Ebon up there workin'."

Solis appears to be testing the connection of the soul to the construct, feeling for its energy. "Oh," he says, still focusing on the task at hand, "They're not Ebon. Not in Icecrown- we only come and go from the Citadel, really, taking orders."

Reyanel 's brows are both raising So High at this information.  "What, not Ebon?  Who ya got takin' ya souls out for ya?  Non-Blade or somethin'?" He doesn't even sound angry, can't even work up the energy for such a lame disguise of emotion.

Solis releases the abomination from his hold with a quick "Step back, please!" before replying. It makes a swing for him with a meaty fist, and he brings it crumpling to its knees by clenching his own with a sigh. "A strong construct isn't enough, it seems. Ah, well-" He turns back to face Rey. "Sorry, Kion, you were saying- ah, yes. It's not as though all of the servants of the former Lich King were wiped clean from Icecrown! The Cult of the Damned still holds hope, as I do, that this new one will soon help us reclaim glory."

Reyanel does step back at that swing, falling silent in the wake of that revelation.  The Cult of the Damned.  "Well, they're doin' a shitty job of breakin' spirits." Rey says hoarsely, thoughts whirling.

Solis sighs. "I can't disagree. Perhaps I should speak with them, get them to make a more concentrated effort. Perhaps more time is necessary before harvesting."

Reyanel bites at his lip behind his scarf, thinking intently.  Void.  "I think ya're onto somethin' there."  More time before harvesting?  More time in case the Worst Scenario happened.  Void, void, void.

Reyanel | Besides. Honestly.  Who the fuck harvested a soul before breaking its spirit first.

Reyanel did once.  And look where that got him.

Solis nods. He doesn't seem terribly put out by having his practices questioned. "The consideration, of course, is that breaking does weaken a spirit- that is the point, naturally. I strive to find the fine line. Stronger spirits, stronger constructs."

[Reyanel]: ...Have ya considered a type of compulsion?

Reyanel gestures with his hands, "A subtle version, to the point where their doubt overwhelms their rationality."

Solis waves a hand, dismissive. "Ineffective on a large scale. If I were building a personal minion, then certainly, but an army-" he pauses, interested. "Go on."

Reyanel keeps going, thinking rapidly. "It starts as a seed, just a small seed at first until it grows and grows until they wouldn't even -want- to break free and instead only desire to help to the best of their abilities."

[Reyanel]: Seeds can be created in larger proportions because they're smaller, letting them grow at their own pace while infecting others.

Solis scratches his chin, keeping the abomination crumpled to the ground. He appears thoughtful. "Still difficult on a large scale, though, I'd think? Something like that would require some knowledge of what could be used to MAKE the soul doubt."

[Solis]: Their values, their fears.

Reyanel shakes his head. "But what do so many men fear when they are faced with their deaths? Even for a second. The unknown. It's a building of fear towards something they cannot possibly understand warping their perception of things they would normally value."

Reyanel has...maybe...tried this before.

Reyanel has done a lot of things, actually.

Solis eyes Rey curiously. "I admit, I would have... no idea how to accomplish such a thing. Or if my usual harvesters could. You have some experience?"

Reyanel hesitates a moment. "It was another time but yes." Wraith was more than a name, it was self, him, burning, cold, calling and icy fingers wrapped around other's thoughts. "I could attempt a demonstration, however, on this one." He points at the abomination.

Solis steps back, intrigued. "By all means, Kion!" He gestures encouragingly.

Reyanel, ignoring Reya's demands that he stop this nonsense, steps closer to the abomination, peering down at it critically. Through what he had seen of Solis' work earlier the connection was...ah yes right there. Sitting down with more grace than his disguise really should have allowed, Rey calls up a small, almost minuscule orb of shadow. Such a careful thing, pouring fear and doubt, taking on hints from -before-, the fear of his enemies and allies once a time ago and pouring them into the orb. Tying it all together, he rests a hand above the abomination, feeling at the soul connection, tracing its lines down and into the soul itself. There you are. Placing the orb amongst those unseen lines towards the soul was a delicate thing but quickly done with the hands of someone whose done it many times before. The orb sinks down and into the soul, so tiny but festering, shadowy fingers unfurling, unfurling, unfurling.

Reyanel stands up straight, eyeing the progress with a critical eye and forcing himself to stay within the bounds of his own mind.  "Somethin' like that." He says blandly.

Solis leans in, eyes wide. "My word," he says. He sounds delighted. "Even I could feel the horror pouring off that thing- how is it made? Shadow, clearly, yes, but- where do you draw from? How do you imbue it so?"

Reyanel shakes his hands. Tingly.  "Shadow, yes.  Some knowledge of soul magic and spectral energy is required of course."

Reyanel pins a stare on Solis.

[Reyanel]: Ya are a Knight. Ya have felt the fear and anger of those who suffer at ya hands.  Use it. Use that feeling and connect it to the shadow.  It will listen.  If you are strong enough.

Solis brightens. "Remarkable! Elegant. I will pass along the recommendation!" Meanwhile, the abomination shakes, and Solis once again loosens his hold. This time... the creature does not lash out.

Reyanel isn't even really thinking about the Consequences of all this, so caught up in the thrill of soul magic.  Ah, he did miss that.  "Don't forget to add purpose as well.  Whether that's fighting a designated enemy, construction, or simply to serve."

Solis actually begins scrawling a few messy notes. "Yes, yes- fear, doubt, and purpose." He points to Rey with the butt end of his nubby pencil. "Now, what are your thoughts on combining this method with traditional tortures, like we've been using? To speed up the process, or amplify it?"

Reyanel feels almost like he's back in Icecrown, frankly.  "I'd suggest to amplify.  A bit in the beginning never hurts."

Solis nods, pleased. "Excellent! I imagined as much." He returns to his crate. "Now- while I have you here, I also wanted to try- more souls in one construct. Confusion, disorientation, but strengthened."

Reyanel is, frankly, somehow reminded of Nob.

Reyanel tilts his head. "Whole souls or fragments?"

[Solis]: Whole. Fragments tend to want to BE whole, which causes... other issues.

[Reyanel]: That is true.

Reyanel knows...all too well now.

Reyanel hums. "Well, that will be interesting to try, let's do it."

Solis nods, pulling three more vials from the crate. Without pause, he begins to feed it into the abomination. "Normally, this can heighten the construct's resistance, but perhaps- the addition of your splendid little orbs..."

Reyanel tilts his head, watching the construct for its initial reaction.

Solis smiles as the second soul slots in, and he neatly settles it in place with the gentle brush of a shadowy hand. The fleshy beast shudders. Solis waves a hand, and it takes a few obedient steps. "Wonderful!" he proclaims.

Reyanel looks over the construct with critical interest.  Hm.  "It will be quite chaotic in there, souls always do try to struggle.  Two souls keeps the fighting relatively even. Add a third and they might team up on the new one or it will be a free for all."

Solis scratches his chin again. "Is there a way to sequester the souls somehow- to power the construct further, without allowing them to tear it apart.... Perhaps a more intense binding to localized areas of the body?"

Reyanel hums. "Souls are volatile, as you know.  But they can certainly be bound to areas, yes.  A body is different than a blade but the principle remains.  It will need something to keep the souls working towards the same goal however."

[Solis]: With better preparation, then- direct the fear and pain of breaking the spirits at the same thing; add your seeds of doubt.

Reyanel nods, that is what he had been getting at, he's still good at this Cult business how nostalgic. Rey raises his hand, another seed materializing in his hand.  Equal number of souls for seeds.  He drops it into the second soul without much thought.

Solis 's abomination succumbs immediately to the second seed, quivering for a few moments before thumping off in the direction indicated by Solis's hand. He smiles. "Care to try a third, Kion?" The construct comes stumping back to them, jaw slack, eyes noticeably more hollow than usually seen in such a creature.

Reyanel stirs a bit at that reminder that he is, in fact, NOT Kion.  Hahh... But Rey simply nods, spinning up a third seed and waits. "Let's."

Solis unstoppers another soul vial, and steers the contents into the abomination, looking rather disturbingly like a man playing fondly with a pet. He sends this one deep, father away from the first two, building distance.

Solis | The abomination rebels at the inclusion of the third soul, blank eyes flashing with rage as it strikes out for Solis.

Solis easily bats its meaty fist away, drawing the blade from his back, and sends the construct staggering with a controlling clench of his fist. "The seed! Now!"

Reyanel follows the traces of where Solis placed the soul, eyeing the proceedings rather detachedly. Even when the abomination strikes out, because it was not at him and thus he does not really care. But he works quickly, dropping the seed down, down, into the third soul. Be silent.

Solis curses as the abomination fights back, seed ineffective. "Apologies! Kion!" he yelps as he tries to get it back under control. "Stop it!" He swings his fist, trying to force his construct to its knees.

Solis | The abomination ignores his attempts, and punches Solis right in the damn face.

Reyanel | It's doing its job.

Reyanel dances around, light on his feet.  Eyes flickering, he raises a hand and the seeds within attempt to blossom, shadows like a spider's web spreading out to silence that defiance.

Solis | The abomination is fortunately unarmed. Smart of Solis. It tries to kick Rey with its big, meaty foot. Thunk.

Reyanel is Kicked away, small death knight in the air and he stumbles to a landing.  Well.  An experiment always has its failures.

Solis slashes with his blade- not to cut, he's too far away for that, but as he does so, green runes flicker, and a searing line of boils erupts across the construct's flesh.

Solis | It shrugs it off.

[Solis]: Well... it's certainly strong, with the third soul!

Solis is trying to look On the Bright Side.

Reyanel snorts and shadows coil about his fingers in a rope and he whips it out to quite literally lasso the abomination.

Reyanel may not have lasso'ed many cows but he has seen Dyrihm do it enough times he guess.

Solis | The abomination bellows, enraged, as the shadows clench around it. It jerks its entire body, trying to yank Rey into Solis.

Reyanel is Too Strong.

Reyanel 's whip bites into the abomination as it tries to do so.  You stop that.

Solis swings his sword back the OTHER way, more boils appearing. Does he only know the one trick?

Solis | It is still completely ignored. Solis makes a frustrated noise.

Reyanel wonders just how Good of a knight Solis is.  Honestly.

Solis | The answer might be Not Very.

Reyanel keeps his whip up, tendrils of shadows snapping up from his feet to further bind the abomination. Best to entangle it before attempting a redo of the seed, Rey thinks to himself.

Solis | Why do you think he's gotten the job of getting information about traitors? That's not very fighty.

Reyanel | That is a very good point.

Solis | The abomination whirls on Solis, snapping some of the tendrils of shadow as it does so. It batters away the unholy Knight's runeblade and tries to punch him again.

Solis gets knocked on his ass, and his blade goes spinning away. "Damn!" He throws up an empty hand, and the ground beneath the construct begins to wither and list eerily, softening.

Solis | The abomination overbalances, and sinks into the festering ground. The smell is quite awful.

Reyanel watches his own footing, side-eyeing Solis and mentally noting the Knight's abilities. Hm.  Looking back to the construct, Rey attempts another forceful intrusion of shadow energy into the creature's souls.

Reyanel clearly, just wants this thing to rampage, I guess.

Solis | The rampage continues.

Solis | The abomination grabs for some nearby deadwood, and hurls the branch at Rey.

Reyanel gets hit.  He is not amused.  He carefully adjusts his scarf back over his face as he gets up with a scowl.

Solis rights himself as well, a furious look darkening his face. "Intolerable!" He barks. "Behave!" The man clenches his fist, trying once again to rein in his creation.

Solis | The abomination shudders to a halt, limbs curling in on themselves. Solis sighs. "Once more, try the seed, Kion."

Reyanel tries not to start at the name.  Fucking void. He nods and whirls up the orb, slightly bigger but still the same principle.  Slowly, he lets it drift down and into the third soul again.

Solis relaxes as the abomination shudders once more, the haunted, dead look returning to its eyes. "My," he huffs. "Well. That was excellent data! It can be controlled with more than two souls, but with great difficulty. Will have to see if a new batch of souls tortured and harvested from the beginning in the way you suggest will dare better!"

Reyanel snorts dryly. "Do let me know how it goes." Dear void, that was even semi-exciting.  Soul magic was so interesting, he didn't nearly get as much practice anymore.

Solis nods. "If my supplies can apply your technique successfully- I can get the souls shipped with the seeds packed with them, in their individual containers. Even more time for them to acclimate before being placed in a construct." He sounds so very excited.S "I will keep you informed of their progress!"

Reyanel | Reya is so so so very mad again.

Reyanel nods, "Oh and before I forget--" He digs into his belt to find a note.  Rewritten from Maul's so it's in his own writing. "The names of the Alliance Knights that showed promise."

Reyanel | Promise for Death and Harvesting.

Solis smiles, reaching out to take the note. "Ah, yes, I was going to ask- thank you so much, Kion. Perhaps I can see about setting these aside for you, special, should I be able to acquire them."

Reyanel 's brows lift. "How thoughtful."  He doesn't even bother to decline the potential offer.  "You know how to contact me." He shrugs then taps the tabard at his waist. "I best get going back to that stupid city."

Solis nods. "Of course! So glad you could make it out for this, truly- seeds of fear and doubt, made of shadow, what a delightful idea." He returns to his notes, seeming as much a dismissal as his next words. "Do take care, and keep your ear to the ground!"

Reyanel simply waves. "Will do." He stalks right on off, slipping out of sight immediately.

[unfortunate-stranger-losers]

Six Baudelaires AU, Part Two {AO3} {Masterlist} {Part One}

Chapter Twenty → in which Sunny drives a Firetruck

“So.” Violet said, adjusting her hair ribbon, “How do we get this baby open?”

They looked up at the fountain, which looked like a massive, cawing bird. “Mah,” Sunny said, which meant, “Maybe we could take a sledgehammer to it.”

“First of all, we’d need a sledgehammer,” Lilac said, “And second, that could hurt whoever’s inside.”

“Must be cramped.” Solitude said, eyeing the size of the fountain. Then she let out a small cry as Babbitt leapt from her pocket and jumped to the ground. “Babbitt! No!”

“Babbitt!” Violet and Klaus also called as the frog hopped to the edge of the fountain, peering into the water.

Lilac ran forwards, picking up the frog, only for them to start chirping and gesturing up. “Wait. I think they have an idea.” Lilac said. She followed the frog’s gaze, and then smiled. “Good Babbitt.” The frog happily chirped, and she said, “We’re going to need to stand on each others’ shoulders.”

“Why?” Violet asked.

Lilac moved over to Solitude, giving her back her frog, and then she said, “We need to get to the beak. No words can come from this sad beak.”

They all looked up at the open mouth of the fountain, and Klaus said, “Genius.”

“Good Babbitt!” Solitude said, as Violet put her down onto the ground. Klaus dropped Sunny, too, as Violet quickly climbed onto Lilac’s shoulders.

“You know,” Violet said, as Klaus ran over to try and climb onto her shoulders, “I could probably scale the statue.”

“We’re not risking it.” Lilac said. “Klaus, careful. We don’t want you to fall.”

“That’s likely, but I think I’m good.” Klaus said. Then he giggled. “I’m thirteen now, I’m all grown up.”

“Nope. Still baby.” Lilac said.

Klaus finally got to Violet’s shoulders, and he reached up, barely able to grab the edge of the beak.

“Maybe there’s a lever or switch inside.” he said, and then he slipped and fell off of Violet’s shoulders.

“Klaus, you absolute disaster!” Violet shouted, as she and Lilac fell back.

Klaus gripped onto the edge of the beak for a moment as his sisters fell to the ground and swore, and then the bottom of the beak began to lower, and Klaus found himself falling, too. Lilac managed to jump to her feet and catch him before he could hit his head on the edge of the stone fountain, and she placed him onto the ground in time to watch the beak finally open all the way.

And then the bird split in half.

It opened up, its sides swerving apart, and the Baudelaires saw three very dirty kids blinking in the sudden light, before turning to their rescuers.

“Duncan!” “Isadora!” “Nick!”

The Baudelaires leapt to their feet as Solitude let out a squeal of excitement, but as Duncan started to move, Lilac said, “Be careful! You could slip, you don’t want to fall!”

Duncan smiled as he cautiously stepped onto the edge of the fountain. “Nice to see you, Lilac.” he said, his voice a bit hoarse.

Klaus ran forwards, pulling Duncan off the fountain into a tight hug. Duncan laughed, as Isadora carefully stepped out, too, shooting smiles at the Baudelaires.

“You got the poems!” Isadora said.

Violet helped her down, and said, “We did! How did you think to use messenger crows?”

“It was Duncan’s idea.” Isadora said. “He remembered doing a report on messenger birds from some books we stole from Mother’s study.”

“It was damp from dew,” Duncan said, “And there were always crows on the fountain. We’d wait until one landed and then we’d wrap a wet couplet around its leg. The paper dried overnight and fell from the tree. But it was Isadora’s idea to use couplets as a code.”

“We overheard the villagers talking from the fountain and figured out you’d be at the Nevermore Tree, wherever that is,” Isadora said, “So we’d be able to send you messages!”

“It was brilliant.” Lilac said, beaming.

And then, quietly, they heard Solitude say, “Nick?”

Slowly, the Baudelaires turned back to the fountain. Nick was standing at the edge of the statue, staring down at the water, almost in a daze. He didn’t make any move to jump out, instead still looking like he was trying to process something.

“Nick?” Lilac called, and Nick looked up slightly, and his siblings realized just how awful he looked. His pinstripe suit was torn and tattered, his hair was a mess, he had some kind of bruise on his cheek, and worst of all, he had the same haunted look in his eyes that the Quagmires had when they’d been in the elevator shaft.

“Nick, hey.” Isadora slowly pulled away from Violet and Lilac and stepped closer to the fountain, her voice very soft. “Your siblings found us. We were right. They found us.”

“What’s wrong with him?” Lilac asked, terror in her voice. “What did they do?”

“He’s just…” Duncan paused.

Isadora finally got Nick to take her hand, and he stepped down from the fountain, shaking as he landed on the ground.

“Nick!” Solitude ran over to him, holding up her arms to try and get him to pick her up. He stared down at her silently, eyes wide.

“We think they drugged him or something.” Duncan muttered, as Klaus stepped away to get to his brother. “But we’re not sure, he- he might just be in shock.”

“He kept trying to escape.” Isadora said sadly. “They… they didn’t like that.”

Nick finally leaned down, picking up Solitude and holding her cautiously. Soli hugged him, and muttered, “Missed you! Love you!”

“I…” Nick tried to say, his voice scarily shaky and quiet.

Klaus walked forwards, carefully putting a hand on Nick’s shoulder. Nick jumped and turned to him, and Klaus said, “Hey. Happy birthday.”

Nick stared at him in confusion, and then he said, “It’s our…?”

Violet raced forwards and hugged him and Klaus tightly, and Sunny ran up to grab onto Nick’s leg. Nick stood stock-still, but he didn’t protest or try to pull away as his siblings embraced him.

Lilac carefully stepped forwards, before turning to the Quagmires. “Are you okay?” she asked.

They nodded. “Now that you’re here.” Isadora said.

“We took notes on everything we learned. From the book and from…” Duncan bit his lip. “Well, like we said, our captors like to brag.”

“We have everything.” Isadora said. “All their crimes, everything they said-”

“Everything about the real VFD.” Duncan shuddered.

“We wrote down what we think is true.” Isadora said. “Whenever they let us out at night to eat and stuff like that, we’d write when they weren’t looking. That’s when I made the couplets, and when we took all our notes.”

“Meaning you, um,” Lilac said awkwardly, “All heard us get arrested for murder?”

“Yeah,” Duncan said, leaning onto Klaus’s shoulder, “And it sucks that wasn’t actually Olaf. We were hoping you’d actually killed him.”

“That man was named Jacques Snicket.” Isadora said.

Lilac narrowed her eyes. “Snicket. That sounds… familiar?”

Duncan and Isadora shared a glance, and to the Baudelaires’ surprise, Nick flinched and also shared the triplets’ look. “Well, that’s not a surprise.” Duncan said. “He was the brother of a man who-”

“And,” Violet interrupted, pulling away from Nick for a moment, “We have to leave.”

The group paused, and then they heard what she had; the sound of an angry mob approaching.

“I think they noticed we broke out of jail.” Lilac said nervously, running to pick up Sunny and giving Nick a quick side-hug.

“You think?” Klaus said, grabbing Nick’s arm as they ran, and using his other arm to grab Duncan’s hand and pull him along. Isadora picked up Sunny and followed closely as they all heard the sounds of a mob grow closer.

“Quick question,” Violet asked, as they rounded a bend, “Is it dinnertime?”

“Is that important?” Duncan asked.

“Might be, depending on whether or not our escape route is taking off.” Violet said.

“Taking off?” Isadora’s eyes widened. “Just what are you planning?”

“Depends on- shit!” Lilac turned a bend, and swore as she realized they’d hit a dead end.

“If we go to the right,” Klaus said, “We can climb the fence into the firehouse yard.”

“Will that help?” Duncan asked.

“There’s a firetruck. If we can get it out of the yard, we can drive away.” Klaus said.

“There’ll be a ladder on it.” Lilac said. “We can use that to get to Hector’s Self-Sustaining Hot Air Mobile Home.”

“A Self-Sustaining Hot Air Mobile Home?” Isadora asked.

“Long story short, it’ll get us out of here.” Lilac said. She raced to the right, and then took Sunny from Isadora and held her up. “Climb over the wall, Sun. Someone get Solitude over. Girls, bring something to help us get down.”

“Uh, might not have time for that,” Klaus said, as they heard the sounds of the mob getting closer.

As they listened, they could hear Olaf shouting, “What do we want?” and the crowd responding, “To burn children!” over and over.

“This town seems nice.” Isadora said.

“Alright, we’re climbing the fence.” Lilac said, as Sunny hauled herself over. “Klaus, we’ll hoist you up. Violet-”

“On it.” Violet said, helping Klaus grab onto the top of the fence.

“Alright, Duncan, Isadora, can you climb?”

“Oh, definitely.” Isadora said.

“I spent so much time chasing Quigley and Isadora up trees that I better know how to climb.” Duncan said.

“Good, I’ll help Nick and Soli. Hurry it up before they find us.” Lilac raced over to Nick, who was staring at the fence blankly as Solitude clung incredibly tightly onto him. “Okay, Nick, we’re going over.”

Nick bit his lip and nodded.

Lilac tried not to cry. “You think you can climb it?”

He nodded, and then Soli said, “No! I don’t wanna let go!”

“Solitude, you just need to let go for five seconds.” Lilac said. “And then we’re safe, okay?”

“No!”

Lilac looked towards the sound of the approaching mob as Klaus and Isadora managed to climb over the fence. “Solitude, please! Do you want to get burned at the stake?”

“No-”

“Then I’ll hold you over the fence, and then help Nick over. Okay?”

Solitude hesitated, and then she slowly held out her hand. Babbitt leapt onto her palm, and she carefully placed them onto Nick’s shoulder. “No lonely?” she said, and Babbitt chirped. Nick barely moved, only glancing at the frog as Lilac took Soli and held her over the fence. She could see Violet’s hands reaching from the other side; her and Duncan must’ve crawled over while Lilac was distracted.

“Okay, Nick, I’m going to help you up, and then I’ll go over.” Lilac said. “Okay? Nick?”

Nick nodded, putting a hand on Babbitt and glancing between Lilac and the fence. Lilac had never, in her whole life, seen him this quiet.

She took a deep breath, and then ran forwards and hugged him. Nick flinched, and she said, “I’m going to protect you. I won’t fail again. I promise.”

Nick didn’t respond, so Lilac pulled away and walked him towards the fence. He jumped and grabbed onto the top, and she quietly made sure he got over alright before she climbed it herself. As she jumped to the other side, watching Solitude run back over to Nick and beg to be picked up again, she said, “Is everyone here?”

“I think.” Violet glanced behind her towards the firetruck. “We can use that to get out, if we can get it past the fence.”

Lilac did a quick headcount, and then said, “Wait. Where’s Sunny?”

The siblings glanced around, and Klaus muttered, “Goddamnit.”

“Where the hell-” Lilac began.

“Shh!” Isadora raced over and slapped a hand over her mouth, and Lilac realized why in a moment.

“What do we want?”

“To burn children!”

“When do we want it?”

“Now!”

“What do we want?”

“To burn children!”

“That sounds a bit too close for comfort.” Duncan said.

“We have to hide.” Violet said. “If they look over the fence…”

“We have to find Sunny. Sunny!” Lilac called.

She stopped calling, though, when she heard Isadora cry out, “Nick!”

Nick was backing away from the fence, eyes wide, gripping onto Solitude so hard his knuckles were white. Isadora ran forwards, and Lilac realized then that he was shaking uncontrollably.

“Nick, Nick, it’s okay!” Isadora said. She reached forwards, grabbing his face. “Look at me! Look at me! Duncan-”

Duncan ran over, putting a hand on Nick’s shoulder, as Nick said, “They’re going to find us. They’re going to catch us. They’re going to find us-”

“No! No, they are not going to catch us again!” said Isadora. “I promise, Nick, they’re not going to hurt us again.”

Klaus slowly turned to his other siblings, looking just as horrified as they all felt. Then he moved over to Nick and said, “We’re protecting you, okay? We’re-”

At that moment, the window to the firetruck lowered, and Sunny leaned out, calling, “Westman!” which meant something like, “Get in the truck, now!”

“Sunny?” Lilac called, confused, even as she moved to help Duncan and Isadora push Nick into the back of the truck.

“Now!” Sunny shouted for emphasis, and Violet and Klaus started running, too. As soon as all of the kids had jumped into the back of the truck, Lilac peered over the window into the seats, to see that Sunny had managed to strap thick boots to her legs with some wires, and she had just turned on the engine.

“Oh…” Lilac began.

“...no.” said Violet, also realizing what was about to happen.

And Sunny shifted the truck into drive and hit the gas.  

The children let out cries of shock as Sunny drove right through the fence, causing it to loudly topple as the truck burst out. They heard shouts and screams, and Lilac and Duncan peered over the edge of the truck to see the mob of VFD villagers parting ahead of them, running to avoid the firetruck. Count Olaf and Officer Luciana, at the head of the mob, had slid to the side, and were watching in shock as the children drove away.

“Your sister drives?” Duncan asked.

“Apparently!” Violet said.

Sunny swerved the car to avoid a building, and the kids screamed as they landed hard against the wall. Solitude clung to Nick, and Babbitt let out a nervous chirp, and Klaus shouted, “Sunny, keep your eyes on the road!”  

Then Isadora looked up and said, “And also on that balloon house, I’m assuming!”

They looked up to the sky, and saw what she had; far up above them was Hector’s Self-Sustaining Hot Air Mobile Home, floating several feet away from town.

“We can still make it!” Lilac said. “Sunny, just- oh, shit.”

Sunny let out a groan as one of her wires snapped, and a boot toppled under the seat, falling off the gas pedal. The truck started to slow, and Klaus glanced behind them to see that the mob was still following them. “Oh shit, oh fuck…” he muttered, immediately sliding in front of Nick.

At that moment, Solitude pushed Babbitt onto Nick’s shoulder and said, “Hold this!” She immediately started running, jumping over Lilac and crawling through the window and onto the seat beside Sunny. Then she slid to the floor and jumped on the gas pedal, causing them to take off again.

“Why the hell are our baby sisters driving a firetruck?” Lilac shouted.

“I don’t know, but at least we’re getting away!” Violet said.

They drove out of the village and into the long, bright desert, barely staying on the road as Sunny and Solitude swerved. Violet jumped to her feet as they got close to the home and called, “Hector!”

They saw Hector peer over the edge of a basket, calling, “Baudelaires!”

“Lower a ladder!” Klaus called. “We’re coming up!”

Hector disappeared, and after a moment, the mobile home stopped mid-air, and a rope ladder was tossed over the side. Solitude moved away from the gas, and Sunny hit the brakes and then pressed a button, causing the ladder on the firetruck to ascend.

“Alright, Quagmires, you go first.” Lilac said. “We’ll grab the girls and try to distract the mob.”

“How are they still following us?” Klaus asked, peering over the edge of the truck to see the crowd of people following them out of town.

“They’re very determined to set us on fire.” Violet said. “Much like me and Nick at camp last year. Alright, hurry it up. We haven’t got all day.”

The ladder finally stopped, and Isadora said, “You should all go first-”

“Hey,” Violet said, punching her shoulder slightly. “Who was just kidnapped? Go ahead, we’ll be right behind you.”

Isadora bit her lip and nodded. She gave them all quick hugs, and then he started climbing as fast as she could.

“Are you sure you’ll be okay?” Duncan asked, looking mainly at Klaus.

Klaus nodded, squeezing his hand. “We’ll be fine. Hurry up, we’ll follow.”

Duncan smiled at all the siblings, and then, as they turned towards the crowd again, he swiftly kissed Klaus on the cheek, and then ran to the ladder. Klaus froze and blushed a moment, but could only shoot Duncan a smile before the mob got a bit too close.

Violet grabbed a fire hose and yelled, “Stay back! This hose is at extreme power!”

“That’s right!” Klaus said. “I’ve read about hoses, and-”

“Long story short!” Lilac shouted. “This will knock you off your damn feet if you don’t stay back.”

“Aqua.” Sunny said, as she and Solitude crawled to the back of the truck. “There’s no water in this truck.”

“Shh.” Solitude elbowed her in the ribs.

The mob did pause, looking concernedly at the children, but Olaf, in the front of the group, merely smiled. “Look at that, friends and neighbors!” Olaf called. “The Baudelaire murderers have their own accomplices!”

“Burn them at the stake!” chanted Officer Luciana, coming forwards.

Lilac instantly leapt in front of Nick, who worryingly was barely moving, just sitting stock-still and staring in horror at the mob. “Touch him again and I’ll burn you!”

“Klaus, take Sunny,” Violet said, “I’ll help Nick and Soli up next.”

Klaus nodded, picking up Sunny and starting up the ladder.

“Now, now-” Luciana began, taking a step forwards.

“Get the hell away from us!” Violet shouted, aiming the hose.

“Oh, please,” said Officer Luciana, and she then pulled something out of her belt. “We can stop you without moving any closer.”

Then she held up a harpoon gun and took aim at the balloons holding up Hector’s Home.

“No!” Violet and Klaus shouted, just as she fired.

A small harpoon hit a balloon with a loud pop, and the Baudelaires turned to see the Home shake slightly. Isadora, who was halfway up the rope ladder, almost slipped, only barely managing to keep her hold. Duncan managed to grab the bottom of the rope ladder as it swung, trying to steady it before starting up himself.

“Don’t!” Lilac shouted, horror creeping into her voice. “The home will fall! They’ll die!”

“What do we care?” said Luciana. “We’re burning them at the stake anyway.”

“No!” Klaus shouted.

“Duncan, Isadora, climb faster!” Violet shouted.

“If she keeps popping balloons,” Lilac said, “That house will fall, and the Quagmires will fall with it.”

And then, quietly, they heard Nick say, “Then we have to let them go.”

They turned and saw him, still leaning against the wall and staring into nothing, but he had a slight look of determination in his eyes.

“He’ll kill them.” Nick said quietly. “If we go with them.”

They all understood. Slowly, Klaus looked up at the triplets, seeing that Isadora was helping Duncan into the basket. They were safe now.

“Hector!” Klaus shouted.

Hector peered over a basket edge. “Yes?”

“Take off!” Klaus cried. “Go higher, so the harpoons can’t get you!”

“But how will you reach the Home?” Hector asked.

“We won’t!” Lilac shouted. Then she turned towards the crowd and said, “Hold your fire! We’re coming down!”

“No!” Duncan shouted, even as Klaus climbed down the ladder.

“What are you doing?” Isadora cried.

“We’re taking care of you!” Lilac called.

“We love you!” Violet shouted, as she watched Solitude lean over to press a button and lower the ladder.

Unfortunately, Officer Luciana simply raised her freshly-loaded harpoon gun and took another shot.

“No! Stop it!” Violet cried as Klaus reached the back of the truck, also stepping in front of Nick, who was starting to shake uncontrollably, throwing his arms over his head. Solitude raced to sit beside him, grabbing his leg. “Stop it! We’re surrendering! They’re innocent!”

“And so are we!” Klaus added, dropping Sunny behind him to sit by Soli and Nick.

“Does it look like I care?” said Luciana.

“Aim for the handyman!” cheered Olaf.

“No! Stop!” Lilac shouted.

Violet got an idea, then, and she called, “Hey, isn’t that a mechanical device?”

“Mechanical device?” shouted a Councilmember, and suddenly the mob grew furious, some of them moving in front of Officer Luciana and Detective Dupin.

“Rule #67 clearly states that no mechanical devices are to be allowed in town limits!” shouted an Elder.

“I’m stopping criminals!” cried Luciana.

“You can’t break rules to arrest rulebreakers!” said Mr Lesko.

“Burn them!” shouted Ms Morrow.

At that, Sunny crawled back through the window of the firetruck, re-tying the boots to her legs, taking extra care to make sure the string held.

While the mob was distracted, Duncan and Isadora leaned over the basket, and Isadora shouted, “You can still reach!”

“No, we can’t.” Lilac said, knowing that this was only a temporary distraction, and there wouldn’t be enough time to raise the ladder and reach the mobile home. “I’m sorry!”

“We’ll see you again! We promise!” Violet shouted.

“Love you!” Solitude cried, curling up against Nick.

Duncan and Isadora shared a quick look, some kind of silent communication as the mobile home kept rising. Then they leaned over, this notebooks in hand. “Take our commonplace books!” Duncan shouted.

“They’ve got everything in them! About the fires, about the Snickets, about VFD!” Isadora said. “About our parents!”

The children then heard a loud squeaking, and they looked around to see the cloud of crows flying towards them, carefully maneuvering past the balloons. The people of VFD stopped moving, looking up in wonder at the crows’ migration, and Duncan and Isadora took the moment to throw down their notebooks.

That’s when Officer Luciana took off her helmet and shot again.

Her harpoon curled through the air, piercing both notebooks, sending the pages scattering in the wind. And then it hit a crow, which let out a pained caw before collapsing to the ground. The other crows screeched and flew faster, flapping far away.

“You’ve injured a crow!” called an Elder.

“You broke Rule #1!” cried another.

But the Baudelaires didn’t pay attention. They were catching as many pages as they could, and once they had them all in their hands, they looked up at the balloons, which were sailing away.

“Goodbye.” Klaus said quietly.

“Goodbye.” Violet said softly.

“Bye!” called Solitude.

“Goodbye!” Lilac shouted.

“We’ll see you soon!” Duncan shouted, as they drifted away.

“We won’t leave you forever!” Isadora declared. “We’ll find you! We promise!”

And with that, the Quagmires were gone.

The Baudelaires glanced back, to see Count Olaf and Officer Luciana- oh fuck, now that her helmet was gone they could clearly see who she was- race out from the crowd. “We’ll catch a ride outside of town!” Olaf called.

“Is that Esme Squalor?” shouted Ms Morrow, confused.

“Our chief of police is Esme Squalor?” shouted Mr Lesko.

“Not anymore!” Esme cried, flipping them off and running off with Count Olaf, laughing hard.

The Baudelaires stared after her in shock, and then Lilac said, “Sunny. Drive.”

Sunny needed no more encouragement. She hit the gas, and the firetruck burst down the road, leaving behind the village of VFD forever.

“Sunny, keep driving.” Violet said. “Olaf seemed sure he had a ride, so his henchpeople must have a car. We’ll have to hope we can outrun them.”

Sunny nodded, though she glanced nervously behind her and said, “Nick?”

Carefully, the Baudelaires all turned towards Nick, once they’d stuffed the Quagmires’ notes in a safe place. He had barely moved since the Quagmires left, and he was still staring into nothing; he looked like he barely even noticed Solitude and Babbitt snuggled up against him.

“Nick, hey? Are you okay?” Violet asked, scooting closer to him.

He didn’t respond, so Solitude crawled onto his lap, staring up at him with concern. “Nick? Nick! It’s Soli! We’re safe!”

He still didn’t say anything, but he did shake slightly as Babbitt jumped off of his shoulder to explore the truck. He flinched as Klaus stepped closer to him, sharply turning towards his twin as he knelt in front of him.

“Nick.” Klaus said, eyes welling with tears, as Lilac also moved closer, her face paling quite a bit. “Nick, what did they do to you?”

Nick just stared at him. He didn’t even move.

Klaus stared back, and then his gaze hardened, and his siblings had never seen him look so furious.

“I’m going to kill them.” Klaus vowed, and he meant it. “I’m going to kill them, Nick.”

Nick’s eyes widened, and for several seconds, he looked like he physically could not process what his brother had just said.

And then he started to cry.

Klaus held out his arms, and Nick picked up Solitude and buried his head in his brother’s chest, sobbing as his brother hugged him as tight as he could. Violet and Lilac raced forwards, and soon they were all embracing and sobbing and refusing to let go.

[unfortunate-stranger-losers]

Six Baudelaires AU, Part Two {AO3} {Masterlist} {Part One}

Chapter Twenty-Two → in which the Baudelaires break into a Hospital

The van ride was very cramped.

The siblings looked ahead at the group of people in the van. They all wore the same bright, colorful clothes, and they all had the same fixed smile on their faces. They were also all holding bundles of heart-shaped balloons.

“So.” Violet said, after they had driven a while, “Are you VFD?”

“That we are.” said the bearded man who’d let them in.

Sunny glanced sideways at a balloon, and said, “Huhun,” which meant, “I don’t think this is the right VFD.”

“Can you tell us what VFD stands for?” Klaus asked.

“That we can.” the bearded man said, and with that, all the adults in the van started to sing.

“We’re volunteers fighting disease, and we’re cheerful all day long! If someone said that we were sad, that person would be wrong! Ho-ho-ho, fiddle-dee-dee, hope you get well soon! Tra-ha-ha, fiddle-dee-dee, have a heart-shaped balloon!”

The siblings stared very hard, and then Solitude turned to Sunny and said, “You’re right.”

“Well, thank you for picking us up.” Lilac said. “We’re looking for a VFD, but we’re not sure you’re the right one.”

“Well then,” the bearded man said, “You sound like you need the Library of Records.”

“It’s this big room in the hospital with files from everywhere!” a woman said. “It’s got answers to any question you could possibly have. Or so we’ve heard, we’ve never been there ourselves. Too boring.”

“Well, that sounds like what we’re looking for.” Klaus said. “Thank you.”

“We’re always willing to help out brothers and sisters in need.” a woman said.

“Especially because there are dangerous murderers around.” said a man.

The Baudelaires flinched, and Nick buried his face into Lilac’s shoulder. Lilac said, “Where did you hear that?”

“Apparently it’s in the papers.” said a woman with short hair.

“Well,” Klaus said cautiously, “You can’t believe everything you read in the papers.”

“Oh,” laughed the Bearded Man, “We don’t read the papers. It’s too depressing! We always say, ‘No news is good news!’”

The children gave each other very skeptical looks. “Alright then.” Violet said. “Where are we going?”

“We’re going to Heimlich Hospital to sing to the patients and give them balloons!” said the bearded man. “As you know, laughter is the best medicine.”

“I’m pretty sure medicine is the best medicine.” Violet said.

“Vaccinations.” Sunny said.

Quickly, Lilac said, “But we do love balloons! Don’t we?”

Nick just buried his head more into her shoulder and whispered, “Li? I want to go.”

Klaus put an arm around his twin, while Solitude put a comforting hand on his leg. Quietly, Violet asked, “Um. Are we almost there?”

“Should be only a few minutes!” called the driver.

“Okay.” Lilac nodded, and she squeezed Nick’s hand. Sunny crawled across her lap to give him as big a hug as she could.

When the van finally stopped and the doors slid open, the Volunteers took their balloons and started singing again, skipping out. Solitude clung to Nick until he picked her up, and Klaus lifted up Sunny, and the Baudelaires hastily followed the group, all knowing very quickly that they should blend in as much as possible, in case The Daily Punctilio had managed to reach this far.

The hospital, up ahead, looked very large and very gray. Beside it, though, there seemed to be a lot of construction going on. “They must be building a new wing.” Violet said, reaching for her ribbon. “I wonder what they’re adding.”

“We can find out later.” Lilac muttered. “What we should do, once we go in, is find the Library of Records.”

“I’ve always hated hospitals.” Klaus said quietly.

“Dimidium,” Sunny said, which meant, “Well, it’s only half a hospital.”

“That doesn’t make it better.” Klaus said.

Then Nick said, again, “Li, I want to go.”

“We’re going to the library of records.” Lilac said softly. “We’ll get some answers, okay?”

Nick shook his head. “I don’t like these people. I want to go.”

“Babbitt help?” Solitude asked, reaching into her pocket and pulling out her frog, gently placing them onto Nick’s shoulder.

“I…” Nick paused, not sure what to say.

They entered the hospital, then, with a woman holding open the door for them. The bearded man checked them in, and as the Volunteers skipped down the hall, singing, Violet managed to spot a map directory.

“Library of Records is pretty close.” she said, tracing their path with her finger. “Should be easy enough to find.”

“I want to go.” Nick repeated again.

“We won’t follow the Volunteers, don’t worry.” Klaus said. “We’ll keep you safe.”

Nick bit his lip, but nodded, and Solitude and Babbitt both leaned up against him as they started to walk. Violet managed to remember the route, taking them down a couple halls as she tied back her hair and muttered under her breath about how they should be getting close and why were hospitals so cold and they really should find what they needed and then hotwire a car.

When they finally turned a bend and saw two double doors up ahead, with a sign off to the side that read Library of Records, Violet raced up to the door and tried the handle. “It’s locked.” she said.

“I can try to pick it.” Lilac said, starting to tie her hair back.

Violet shook her head, kneeling by the locks. “These aren’t ordinary enough pin-tumbler locks. You wouldn’t be able to get them with a regular lockpick.” She stood up and stretched her arms as Lilac also inspected the locks, finding she was right, and then she added, “We’ll just have to make a flamethrower.”

“You are not making a flamethrower.” Lilac said. “Maybe Sunny could bite her way in. Like she did to the closet door.”

“Please don’t remind us of that.” Klaus said, while Sunny giggled and clapped.

“We could kick down the door.” Lilac suggested. Then, she gave Nick a small smile. “Remember, Nick? When you were locked in the closet and wanted Mom to kick down the door?”

Violet put a hand over her necklace, while Nick just shrank back slightly. “Um…” he began. “Maybe… maybe we could just… ask…”

“We’re murderers, Nick.” Solitude said.

“Yeah, someone will recognize us eventually.” Violet said.

At that moment, they heard a man turn around the corner, and he said, “Hello? Who is that there?” The Baudelaires turned to see a man coming near them, wearing very thick glasses and holding a ring of keys in his hands. “I’m sorry, my eyesight is not what it used to be.”

The Baudelaires shared a look, and then Lilac said, “Let us help you, then.”

“We’re volunteers.” Violet said, not noticing Nick flinch again. “For the Library of Records.”

“Oh!” the man smiled. “Babs must’ve sent you, then. I really do need some assistance in here. You can call me Hal. What are your names?”

They all looked to Lilac, who considered a moment, before remembering that the newspaper got their names wrong. “I’m Lilac.” she said, as Hal moved past them and put the keys into the lock. “These are my siblings, Violet, Nick, Klaus, Solitude and Sunny.”

“And Babbitt!” Solitude cheered, as the frog hopped back into her pocket.

“Yes, and Solitude’s pet frog.” Lilac said. “Their name is Babbitt.”

“Well, it’s very nice to meet you.” Hal said, holding open the door. “Welcome to the Library of Records.”

The children stepped inside a large, white room, completely filled with several aisles of tall, metal filing cabinets. The middle of the room held a chute, over which was a large cart.  

“Paperwork is what makes the world go around, don’t you think?” Hal said.

“Um, sure.” Klaus said. “But all these files must be interesting, aren’t they?”

“Oh, I wouldn’t know.” Hal said. “We’re not supposed to read information, just file it. I don’t want to see you touching a file unless you’re putting it away.”

“Well,” Violet said, eyeing his thick glasses, “I’m sure you won’t see us doing that.”

“Are you the only one with keys to the library?” Lilac asked.

“Oh, yes.” Hal nodded, not really paying attention. “So, here’s how it all works.” Hal said, leading the children towards the chute. “They send me down a file from the upper rooms- oh! There’s one now!”

There was a rumbling noise from the chute, and Nick instantly backed up, holding Soli a lot tighter, eyes going wide. A file fell into the cart, and Hal picked it up, flipping through quickly. “You may glance at the file, but remember to read as little information as possible. For instance,” he flipped open the file, looked a moment, and then said, “I can see that this has something to do with weather last week at Damocles Dock. So I might file it under D for Damocles, or W for Weather, or L for Last week.”

“How would someone know where to look to find that information?” Klaus asked.

“I suppose they’d have to look in all three places.” Hal said. “And over there, against the wall, is the chute for sending information away. But you probably won’t use it, nobody ever requests information from the library.”

Klaus looked like was ready to punch something, but instead he moved over to Nick, grabbing his arm in a comforting gesture; he was still staring at the chute, which was starting to rumble again.

Out of the chute came a small cylinder; a video reel. Hal picked it up, glanced at the label, and said, “Oh! I know where to put this. I’ve been told exactly where to put files labelled Snicket. Hold on a moment, I’ll be right back.”

He left, leaving the gaping siblings behind him.

“Snicket?” Sunny asked.

“We need the file.” Solitude said. “Nick, throw me.”

“No, no, don’t throw her.” Klaus said, knowing that this was something Nick was likely to actually do. “We’ll just ask him how to get it.”

“We’re not supposed to read here, Klaus.” Violet said, crossing her arms.

“Well, technically,” Lilac said, “It’s a video, so we won’t be reading anything.”

“God, I hope that counts.” Klaus said.

“Do you think that’ll have the information we need?” Violet asked.

Nick flinched again, and then he said, “Um-”

Hal returned, and Lilac quickly said, “Hal, we need to check out a file from the library. It’s very important. How would we go about that?”

“Very important?” Hal said. “Well, if I suppose it’s that important, there’s some paperwork you can go through. It may take a few business days, but seeing as you’ll be staying here-”

“Yes. Staying here.” Violet nodded.

“Can we start filing the paperwork?” Lilac asked.

Before Hal could answer, there was a buzz, and then a very cold, very familiar voice came over the speaker.

“Attention, everyone. This is Dr Mattathias Medicalschool, and I will be replacing your former administrator, Babs, as she recently took to skydiving off of roofs.”

Nick let out a sharp cry, his eyes going wide, and Klaus immediately grabbed his arm and pulled him closer. Lilac immediately gripped onto Violet, and Sunny let out a growl. “Oh, that’s surprising.” Hal said absentmindedly. “Babs always preferred to be heard and not seen, and I believe skydiving requires a lot of oversight.”

“Hal-” Violet began, as Solitude grabbed onto Babbitt.

“Now, everyone be on the lookout for those suspicious murderers.” said the voice, which they all knew immediately was none other than Count Olaf. “And due to budget cuts, the cafeteria will be closing in fifteen minutes, the giftshop in ten, and the Library of Records immediately.”

The lights shut off, and Hal said, “Oh, well, I suppose we can do that filing tomorrow.”

“Oh, it’s… it’s real important, Hal-” Lilac protested.

“We can’t disobey the rules, Lilac!” Hal said. “Nobody’s allowed in the library after closing. In fact, we should leave now. I’ll see you all in the morning, alright?”

The Baudelaires sighed. “Alright, Hal.” Lilac said. “Come on, everyone.”

She grabbed Violet’s hand, dragging her off, and everyone soon followed. Nick stopped at the edge of the door, though, looking towards the filing cabinets. There was so much information in here, information nobody knew.

Maybe that was a good thing.

[lovelybones81]

Unthinkable

Summary: Seven years, three movies, two people, one story. But before they can get their happily ever after, Sebastian Stan and Camille Solis must learn to trust in each other and in themselves, before allowing the unthinkable to happen.

Warnings: Fluff, future smut, Language, Angst, mental health, WOC lead character

Rating: NC-17

NOTE: Hi yall! I’m reposting the last chapter because for whatever reason, it’s not showing up on my masterlist! I’m working on the next chapter as we speak! **update: I’ve decided to combine the last 2 chapters as one, since they are are so short! 

Chapter 15   The Hard Stuff

 “Dude! Where the hell have you been?” Chace Crawford exclaimed, gently slapping Sebastian on the chest.

 Sebastian distractedly took a long drag from his cigarette. “Huh? What?” Blowing the smoke from one side of his mouth, his eyes wondering around the large outside terrace. “Have you seen Cass?” He asked, ignoring Chace question completely. “Or Camille?” 

 Chace gave his friend a curious look, but before having the chance to respond, a female voice interrupted. “Chace!” she whined. “I thought we were going to dance?” Sebastian frowned in annoyance at the voice.

 “Get us another round of drinks.” Chace ordered sweetly. “I’ll be right in.” The woman didn’t argue, just gave him a beaming smile, turning on her heels and making her way back inside. Once the admirer was out of sight, Chace turned back to Sebastian. “What happened to you?”

 At the same time Sebastian asked again. “Have you seen Cam?”

 Yes, Camille. That’s who he needed to talk to. He wasn’t sure what would come out of his mouth if he found Cassidy first. He was fuming. 

 “I saw Cass inside with-. “  Chace stopped as realization hit his face. “Oh.” His eyes widening. 

 “Yeah.” Sebastian muttered after taking another long puff. 

 “C’mon man, you know she didn’t mean any harm-“ 

 Sebastian glared. “She needs to learn how to stay out of people’s damn business.” Taking an angry puff off his cigarette. Camille, himself, Alyssa and Chace had an early dinner. Then met up with a few other mutual friends at a high-end bar/club Chace has suggested. He had been having a pleasant night until about twenty minutes ago. The night has been going pretty smooth, with drinks, dancing, laughing and flirting all around. He even gotten a nice buzz after a few beers, but it slowly began to fade when someone bumped into him at the bar. 

 His first thought was: Camille coming to join him after she had disappeared to the ladies room. But he had been mistaken. Sebastian hadn’t talked or seen his ex-girlfriend since the breakup. At first, it had been because of their busy work schedules, but eventually it was by Sebastian’s choice. As more time passed, a few things had begun to come to light about her unfaithfulness during their time together.

 “She must have put her up to this-. “  Chace said, trying to defend Cassidy. 

 “Yea well- she should have known better.” Sebastian growled, putting the beer bottle up to his mouth. Wanting desperately to get the alcohol buzz back. He knew drinking was not the answer, but it was the only thing he could control. Beer and a cigarette was all he needed at the moment-and talking to Camille. 

 “Camille did come out here with me...” Chace mumbled, looking around his surroundings with concern. “Wait-she was with Cassidy before you went to the bar. I thought she-“ 

 Chugging the last bit of his beer, he tossed the empty bottle in the trash can closest to him and snorted. “I think I would have noticed if she has been standing next to Leighton.” He might have reacted a bit nicer if Camille had been around. Instead all the anger, confusion and hurt had seeped out and he had been nothing but snippy with Leighton and Cassidy. And from the expression on Cassidy’s face, she had thought she was doing a service putting them together in the same room. But before Sebastian had the chance to say anything, she quickly disappeared with a lame excuse. Leaving him alone with his ex. 

 By then, people had started to gawk and Sebastian knew he would have to be the adult and walk away. He wasn’t as well-known as other actors but in the New York scene people knew who he was. And they especially knew about the relationship with Leighton. So he said his hello through gritted teeth, even giving her a quick hug before walking away. It had not been enough. She followed and cornered him, wanting an explanation on why he had been avoiding her phone calls. Before he even realized what was happening they had made their way into one of the VIP bathrooms, bickering and fighting. 

 It wasn’t his style. But something inside of him hated the fact that she had shown up at the same bar he was at. Because he knew it had not been a coincidence. She planned this.

 “Oh wait.” Chace started. “She got a phone call!” nodding vigorously at his revelation.  

 “Who?”

 “Camille!” He peeked over his shoulder. “So she’s out here somewhere.”

 Sebastian laughed despite his mood. “Thanks man.” Placing a hand on top of Chace’s shoulder. “Did you see which way she went?”

 “Toward the other side of the terrace…I think.”

 Glancing down at the watch Camille had given him for his birthday, he wondered who she was on the phone with. It was past midnight in New York, and even though it was 2 hours earlier in Los Angeles, he was pretty sure Tia Yolanda was already in bed. Which meant she was most likely on the phone with her sister.  

 He took a puff from his cigarette once more before speaking.  “I’ll find her.” 

 Chace nodded. “Cool.” Glancing eagerly over Sebastian’s shoulder into the inside of the bar. 

 Sebastian smirked. “Didn’t you send her to fetch drinks?” He teased.  

 Chace glared back at Sebastian. “Ha-ha.” He said sarcastically. “I’ll catch you later.” He must have spotted the female admirer inside because Sebastian didn’t even get a chance to say a word before Chace quickly disappeared back into the bar.

 Shaking his head, Sebastian turned on his heels in the opposite direction, in search of Camille. The outside terrace was bigger than he expected, for the next 15 minutes he walked virtually all the way around with no sight of her. He was about to give up and head back inside, but came to a halt- from the corner of his eye, he spotted her leaning into the rails of the terrace, half of her body turned to him, with one elbow slanted over the top of the rail, her head tilted to the other side. Sebastian’s eyes looked her up and down. Once again, flabbergasted of how strikingly beautiful she was- even if it was from the back side. Tonight she had chosen to wear a dark pencil skirt with a low back cream cami, outlining every single curve and strappy heels to match, her curls up, divulging her neck.

 Sebastian licked his lips sensually, putting the last bit of his cigarette out in the corner ashtray, forgetting for a split minute why he’d been looking for her in the first place. His thoughts couldn’t help but drift to whether or not she was wearing anything else underneath the skirt.

 But as quickly as the thought came to him, the faster he chastised himself for thinking it. Besides, checking her ass out was not the reason he had been looking for her.

 What he needed was his friend who would listen to him. For the last few weeks he had been trying not to burden her with his problems, but now realized he did need someone to talk to. Camille’s words from the night before resonating; about him being her best friend. He felt the same way. Camille was now part of his core of friends, one of his best friends. He wasn’t sure of where their relationship was going to lead or end up -if earlier conversation was any indication (it felt like a seesaw at times trying to guess who would pull who down first) but they were in each other lives now and Sebastian wouldn’t have it any other way.

 She was intently into her conversation she hadn’t notice him nearing closer. He stood a few feet away, his ears picking up on the phone call. 

 “Did you drive?” Camille asked in a troubled tone. There was a pause on the other end as she listened to whomever was speaking. She spoke again. “Okay- I mean is there any way you could have someone drive you home? Or pick you up? You shouldn’t be driving-.” She pleaded softly. The person on the other line must have been arguing because he heard Camille say: “Promise me you’ll get someone to take you home.” She urged. “Do you want me to call-. “ Getting interrupted again. 

 Sebastian watched her body language, one finger nervously playing with a few curls that had fallen from the top of her head. Sighing she spoke again. “I know you’re sorry-but we can-.“ But not able to finish her sentence, instead she let out an exasperated sound. “Why?” Another pause, as the voice on the other side of the line spoke. “Because you’ve had a lot to drink and you aren’t making any sense right now.” Camille’s voice sounding defeated as she straighten up, back still to Sebastian. 

 He wasn’t all the way sober, but the pieces slowly started to fit together on who she was on the phone with. And it made him clinch his jaw in annoyance. Wasn’t she avoiding his calls? Isn’t that what she had asked him to do earlier in the park? Hit the ignore button on her phone? Why hadn’t she done that again?

 “I know you wish it wouldn’t have happen.” Camille lamented. Sebastian knew he should not be eavesdropping, but couldn’t seem to move from his spot. “But it did. And I really don’t want to talk about this-.”  David must have interrupted because she was quiet for a few more seconds. “Right now you just need to find a way to get home.” 

 Sebastian felt his stomach tighten in anger, listening to her plead with him. And why the hell was David calling anyway? She was thousands of miles away, she couldn’t do anything from New York. Why couldn’t he just leave her alone? 

 “David-this isn’t the time.” Anxiously tugging on the curl wrapped around d her finger. “I-I don’t know when-but it’s not right now.” She stammered. “No I can’t come home.” Another long pause. “It’s not that-.“ Stomping her foot lightly on the ground beneath her. “Don’t!” Camille exclaimed in her best stern voice. 

 Sebastian had the sudden urge to take the phone from her and throw it over the terrace. Yet a part of him was annoyed with her as well. Why continue to torture herself? 

 “If you show up, you know Nat will not hesitate to call the police.” Camille warned. “And I can’t meet you. I’m not back in LA yet.” Letting out a dejected sigh, as if she knew the conversation was not going to lead anywhere new.

 She spoke again. “What? I’m not understanding.” David must’ve repeated himself because the next words out of Camille’s mouth were: “I’m not sure. Maybe in the next few days?” Slowly turning around so she rested against the terrace rail and at the same time tossed her head back. “No, not in Manchester.” Sebastian heard her murmur. He must’ve asked where she was, because she hesitated to answer. “Just promise me you’ll fine away to get home.” Trying to change the subject. “I can’t stay on the phone with you all night.” 

 Even though she no longer had her back to him, she still hadn’t notice him standing there. She was quiet for a few minutes, the phone still to her ear, listening. 

 “This is not how we should be having this conversation.” She started again. “Why have I been avoiding you? Because this hasn’t been easy for me and I needed to try and deal with it.” Another long pause. “Hold on I can’t hear you.” 

 Sebastian watched her take the phone away from her ear to tap the screen. 

 “I want us to work this out.” David’s voice came over the speaker phone. “I miss you.” His words slurring. 

 “Just get home.” Camille repeated. “Okay?” 

 “No!” David’s voice adamant. “Not until you say we will-will work this out. Not until you say you’ll talk to me when you get back here.” He pushed, and she shut her eyes, not saying a word. “Camille? Ille…” he pleaded.

 It didn’t take a rocket scientist to see the hurt in her as she listened to David plead with her. If he could only see what his actions were doing to her.

 “These last few weeks haven’t been easy.” She confessed. 

 “I know sweetheart. And it’s my fault.” David replied, his words still slurring. “I love you Camille. I-I love you.” 

 She rubbed a hand nervously over her face. “I know David.” 

 “Then let me p-prove it. Let’s talk okay? Please. I know you still love me. We’ve been together too long to just end things this way.” He was begging now, that was obvious. 

 Good. He didn’t deserve her. 

 Camille folded one arm across her chest bringing the other arm up with the phone up to her face, listening. Sebastian watched her quickly wipe a tear away. “I’m gonna get off the phone.” She managed to say. 

 “Wait-sweetheart-“ 

 She shook her head even if though he couldn’t see it. “No, no. I gotta go.” It was almost as if she was trying to convince herself. “You’ve obviously have had a lot to drink and I’m not exactly the most sober person right now... and answering was a mistake.” Taking in a shaky breath. 

 David wasn’t giving up so easily. Sebastian heard him quickly speak again. “Okay, okay-at least think about it? Please? Say you’ll think about seeing me when-when you get home?” 

 Camille wiped another tear from her face before answering. “If I do-will you head home right now? Have someone pick you up?” She tried to bargain. 

 “Yeah. Yes.” 

 “Okay-I’ll think about it.” 

 “Yeah?”

 “Yes.” Camille stated. 

 “Great!” David said too enthusiastically for Sebastian’s taste. “You know I love you right? I love you.” He repeated for what seemed the 100th time in the past 10 minutes.

 Sebastian watched Camille turn to lean into the terrace railing again. “I know.” Sebastian heard her say. “I...love you too.” 

 Sebastian ran his fingers through his hair, feeling like someone has just stung him in the chest, listening to Camille say those three little words to someone else. He knew he shouldn’t be listening. It wasn’t his business. Camille was a grown woman after all. Barely hearing Camille say goodbye to David, he turned on his heels, hoping she wouldn’t notice. 

 “Seb?” He heard her call out. 

 He stopped mid-step, jaw twitching, eyes shut. Well, so much for that idea. Slowly he turned back in her direction. She stood in the same spot, only this time facing him, her phone gripped tightly in her hand, a forced smile on her beautiful face. 

 “No wine?” She tried to tease making her way toward him. 

 “Huh?” 

 “I thought you went to the bar to get us drinks?” 

 “You disappeared on me, so it just seemed useless.” He said in an edgy tone, not sure where it was coming from. Camille must have noticed too because her eyes widen in surprise. 

 “What’s wrong?” She quickly asked, taking a closer step. 

 Sebastian shook his head, not meeting her gaze. “Nothing.” He lied. 

 Was she going to tell me him about David? Or just pretend like the conversation had just not happen? What the hell was wrong him?! Who was he to demand any explanation from her? But he couldn’t seem to control his emotions at the moment. He was annoyed and angry on how she handled the whole situation with David.

 “Liar.” Camille stated with a suspicious glare.

 Her response only infuriated him. So he snapped back. “Are you okay?” mirroring the same look she had given him.

 Tilting her head to one side, she broke the gaze for a split second, pressing her lips together before locking eyes again.  “I’m fine. What makes you think I’m not?” 

 So she was going to pretend as if the phone call hadn’t happen. “Just making an observation.” 

 Wrinkling her forehead. “Did I do something to upset you?” She asked cautiously 

 Was he upset? Fuck yes he was. His cheating ex-girlfriend had just cornered him, and he had just heard the girl he had feelings for confess her love to her cheating ex fiancé, so yes he was a little upset. And confused. And he needed another cigarette and beer to deal with this. Could he possibly be overacting? Yes. But his drunk ass was not listening to reason at the moment.  

 Shrugging nonchalantly he responded. “No. Why would I be?” 

 If he wasn’t irritated himself he would have been scared of the dirty look she was giving him. She shrugged and snipped back. “Just making an observation of my own.”  

 Sebastian wasn’t sure how long they stood there -just staring, but it was obvious they were both trying to figure out what the other one was thinking. He spoke up first. “We should probably get back inside with everyone else.” Pointing in the direction of the club. 

 Camille’s face soften, reaching out to touch his elbow. “Wait- Sebastian what’s going on?”

 He knew he could talk to Camille, that’s why he had been looking for her in the first place. But after hearing (fine, eavesdropping) on the conversation, he was hesitant to do so. It didn’t make sense, it was just how he was feeling at the moment. “Nothing.” He repeated, forcing a smile. “I just need another beer.” Patting his back pocket. “And maybe a cigarette…” he mumbled to himself. Where the hell did he leave his pack? Maybe his behavior was a bit petty, he just couldn’t help himself.  He patted his pants again. “Where the hell did I put them?” He mumbled to himself. He looked up in surprise when Camille handed him the pack. 

 “You asked me to hold on to them while you went to the bar.” She reminded with a small smile. 

 “Thanks.” He muttered. Shit, he had. That conversation felt like so long ago now. They had been flirting for most of the night. Getting closer and closer as they sat in the VIP area with the rest of his friends when he’d realized Camille’s glass was empty. So he offered to get them refills. 

 “Sure.” Camille answered, gripping tightly on to her phone. 

 Glancing down at her hands, Sebastian found himself asking. “Were you on the phone with someone?” He didn’t know why he had asked but a part of him wanted to know what her answer would be. 

 Camille looked anywhere but his face, licking her lips nervously with a shake of her head. “No.” She answered simply. “Just needed some air.” 

 He gave a small nod back, taking another cigarette out of the pack. Okay, so she wasn’t going to tell him about the phone call. Why did it bother him so much? Because for the last months they shared everything. Not sure of what else to say, he put the cigarette to his lips.  

 Camille took another step closer, facing him. Without warning she took it out of his mouth. “What happened?” 

 He glared, trying to grab it back from her. “What are you talking about?” 

 She tilted her head, narrowing her eyes. “Well, 20 minutes ago you were all happy and drunk and now you look like someone hurt your puppy.” She tried to joke.  

 He was getting tired of this conversation. What was the big deal? She didn’t need to know his mood change had to do with her and his ex. “You’re right- I’m upset.” He started. “I’m upset because I’m out of beer.” Trying his best to not sound cross with her, he forced a smile, but it quickly faded when he spotted Cassidy walking toward them. Camille opened her mouth to respond, but shut it when she saw the look on his face. She slowly turned her head, following his gaze. Cassidy stood a few feet away, nervously bouncing on the balls of her heels. He clinched his fists at the sight of her. He needed to control his anger. Or at least try.  

 Cassidy tugged a strand of blond hair behind her ear, slowly walking over to them.  “Sebastian, I’m so sorry.” She stated quickly. “I had no idea she was going to do that…“ Stammering the last part. 

 Sebastian couldn’t help but glare. “You know Cass -you should really learn how to stay out of peoples business.” He barked. 

 “Sebastian-. “  Camille warned. 

 But he wasn’t listening. He was angry. Why did everyone else think they knew more about his relationships than he did? Cassidy had been pushing for Leighton and him to reconcile for weeks now. “You knew exactly what would happen.” He accused. Camille watched the both of them, not sure of what was going on. Sebastian continued. “You just have to be the middle of everything...” 

 Cassidy eyes widen at the words. “I said I was-“ 

 Sebastian brought a hand up. “If I were you- I would keep quiet because nothing you say is going to change any of this.” He snapped. If he wasn’t so upset he would have felt a bit guilty at the way she looked right now. 

 “Sebastian-. “  He heard Camille repeat softly. “Maybe this can be talked over tomorrow?” She suggested. “When everyone is a bit more sober?” 

 Breaking the gaze from Cassidy, he looked back at Camille, his jaw twitching. “This really doesn’t concern you.” He blurted out.

 Camille raised both eyebrows, in confusion and hurt. But it quickly fade, the look in her eyes held anger as she narrowed them at him. Chewing on her lower lip she cleared her throat, taking a step back from him. “You’re right.” She said shortly. “I’m sorry.” Looking between them. “I’ll be inside…getting another drink.”

 Fuck. Fuck. Fuck. Sebastian let out a large frustrated sigh. He hadn’t meant to make her feel alienated, he just didn’t know how to handle all these damn feelings at the moment. And he wasn’t thinking clearly. He watched her take two steps (leaving Cassidy standing there) before he quickly made his way to her, grabbing onto her elbow. “Camille, wait- I’m-I’m sorry-“  

 Camille glanced at him over her shoulder, eyes not showing any emotion. “It’s fine.” Trying to break free from his grip. “Let go.” She ordered through gritted teeth. Sebastian knew better than to argue. He dropped his hand and she gave him a grim smile. “Thank you.” And without another word, walked away from him.

----------------------

 “Thanks.” Camille muttered walking straight past Sebastian when he opened the front door of the apartment. Without another word, she began taking the hair pins out, a headache coming on. Letting her curls fall to her shoulders, she gently massaged her scalp, moaning softly, eyes shut. She opened them back up to find Sebastian watching. Quickly she moved the hand away, as they locked eyes. Maybe if she wasn’t so irritated with him, this could have led to another one of their little flirting sessions, but she was feeling humiliated from earlier, that not even his good looks could sweet talk him out of this. “I’m going to bed.” She announced.

 “Are you seriously going to ignore me?” Sebastian probed, the look from a few seconds ago disappearing, shutting the door behind him. “In my damn house?” Camille turned on her heels, giving him a blank stare. He pursed his lips together and blew air out of them. “I guess you are.” He concluded, flipping the light switch on. “Look-. “  He started.  “I’m sorry about earlier-.” His eyes filling with regret.

 She cleared her throat with a shake of her head. “And I said it was fine.” Trying to avoid eye contact so he couldn’t read her emotions.

 Sebastian snorted, shaking off his jacket and tossing it on the end of couch, mumbling in Romanian. Camille only scowled, wishing she understood what he just said. “Well at least you’re talking to me now.” He observed. She opened her mouth to protest, but swiftly pressed her lips together. Raising one eyebrow, Sebastian snorted again. “Oh yeah, everything is fine. You’ve barely said two words to me since we left the bar.” he accused, walking toward the kitchen.

 He was right. She hadn’t spoken a single word to him on the taxi cab ride. Mostly because she was too heated to say anything. Her anger and hurt was not only because of Sebastian, but also due to the conversation with David.

 Sebastian had every right to tell her to butt out of his life, it was just the menacing tone of how he had asked that bothered her. It was fairly obvious he was upset. Camille wasn’t sure if his anger was directed toward her. And if it was, what the hell had she done to deserve it? They had been having a fun evening- or at least she thought so- before he had gotten up to the bar. And maybe she was overacting. Her mind was foggy with David’s word; his confession of wanting to fix their relationship still lingering in her head.

 Plus she was not completely sober. So having serious relationship discussions while under the influence of red wine was not ideal. Yet, her heart couldn’t help but skip a beat at the miniscule possibility of working things out with David. But then again maybe that was the wine talking. She shook her head slightly, as if doing so would somehow would make all of her jumble thoughts evaporate.

 “Camille?” His voice sounded so far away. Blinking a few times, her eyes focused back on Sebastian’s face. Her stomach clinching at the sight of him. Unsure of how he fit into the puzzle of her feelings. Because despite the anger she felt at the moment, Sebastian was important to her. “Camille?” he repeated, only softer that time.

 Running one hand through her curls, she mumbled. “I’m just gonna go to bed-. “  Maybe sleeping would help clear the mind.

 “Wait-. “  His voice gruff, feeling the familiar tingle down her spine when he touched her hand. “Can we just talk? Please?” 

Camille’s eyes fell to where their hands touched and she pulled it away. “What are you gonna say? That you’re sorry-“

 “Yes.” Sebastian interrupted, those blue orbs growing wide almost in she would forgive his moment of assholeness. 

 “Okay.” 

 Sebastian took a step closer, squinting in suspicion. Obviously not happy with her answer. “Now who’s being the -“

 “Asshole?” Camille supplied. 

 “Okay,” he started with a nod. “I deserve that.” She blinked slowly in response. Camille wasn’t going to make this easy. He frowned, running his fingers nervously through his hair when he recognized it too. “C’mon Cam. I don’t like this.” He paused. “I wasn’t upset with you....” 

 Raising a perfect eyebrow, not saying a word, she licked her lower lip. “Is this what you meant earlier?” She snipped despite trying to keep her tone even.

 Sebastian looked at her in confusion. “What?”

 “About seeing this side of you?” she prompted. The confused look in his eyes evaporated at the words. Instead those blue soft orbs Camille had come to know, slowly turned icy. Pretending the look didn’t bother, she tugged a strand of hair behind her ear. Fuck maybe she shouldn’t have said that. Because she had a feeling she’d just pushed the wrong button. Biting on her upper lip she shook her head. “Never mind.”

 “No. If you have something to say then say it.” The beautiful sculpted jaw clenching and unclenching. His face inches from hers now. The smell of mixed alcohol and cigarettes hitting her nostrils rapidly. “I just think it’s funny though…you not willing to let this drop when I heard you easily forgive someone else-“

 Camille’s eyes narrowed, his words making her stomach drop. “Wait-. “  She stammered, moving a hand up and taking a step back from him. “W-wait-what?” Her eyes searching his face for answers to something she already knew. But she wanted to hear him say it. Yet her anger wasn’t going to let her. “You were eavesdropping?” she growled. “Are you kidding me Sebastian? Who do you think you are?!” her voice escalating with every word. She sucked in a shaky livid breath. “You had no right to do that-I-I-.”  At the same time, taking clumsy step back, almost tripping on her heels.

 Sebastian was quick on the draw, gripping her by the waist before she fell backwards. “Take a breath.” His voice calm.

 She glared, shoving the arm that was around her waist down and off her. No! He wasn’t just going to make this go away with his charms and looks. He had been listening to her conversation with David. She had wanted to process it by herself before deciding to share it with anyone. Before deciding to share it with him. And he had violated her privacy. “Don’t.” she breathed when he took a step toward her. The alcohol was not helping the emotional roller coaster she was going through. Quite the opposite, it heighten it. And everything was still fresh, Sebastian’s and David’s words. And her own muddle thoughts.

 Was she exaggerating? It was possible. But her mind and heart were not on the same page at the moment. Their eyes locked and Camille saw the apprehension in his. Almost as if regretting what he just said. Well it was too late. There was no taking it back. Tears forming in the back of her eyelids, she looked away.

 Why the hell was she going to cry?

 She heard him sigh loudly. “I didn’t mean to eavesdrop.” Taking a step close again, and trying to make her meet his gaze. Camille sniffed, stubbornly not meeting his eyes. “I was looking for you....and when I found you -yeah....you were on the phone.” He finished lamely. 

 “And instead of leaving you decided to stand there and listen -“ 

 “You had him on speaker phon-!” Sebastian bellowed but stopped, clinching his mouth shut to keep from saying anything else, instead waving a hand in front her. After a few moments of silence, he let out a dejected sigh, rubbing the top of his head nervously. “I was looking for you.” He repeated slowly. “To talk.” He paused for a long moment. “And yea, maybe I could have... walked away-“ 

 “But you didn’t.” Camille snapped. 

 Sebastian scowled and repeated. “But I didn’t.” He crossed his arms, seemingly frustrated. “Why are trying to pick a fight?”

 Her jaw dropped at his accusation. “ME?” she yelped. “I wasn’t the one who was acting like a jerk.”

 “I told you I wasn’t upset with you-“

 The tension in the room whirling between them like a tornado funnel. Furiously shaking her head, Camille continued. “It was before Cassidy walked out into the terrace Sebastian. You were upset with me.” Rubbing her hands nervously up and down her own arms and shoulders. “You still are. I might not know you as long as Charles or Chace but I’ve been around long enough now to know when something is wrong or bothering you.”

 He threw his head back in an exasperated sigh. “I was looking for you, Camille. Because I wanted to talk.”

 “But you didn’t talk.” She indicted. “Instead you acted like a damn prick.” Sebastian’s eyes widen in surprise, and she could have sworn his lips twitched upward at the word. Any other time, Camille would have welcomed an innuendo comment, but not at the moment. And Sebastian picked up on it, because he kept his mouth shut. Her feelings were hurt and trying to joke out of it was only make it worse.

 He hastily reached out for her, tugging softly on the loose curls closest to her neck. “Draga-.”  His fingertips touching her skin now. 

 Her body shiver despite her mind wanting to shut it down. She gave a small shake of her head. “Don’t-Sebastian.” She warned. 

 “Don’t what?”  Stroking the skin behind her left ear

 “You can’t sweet talk your way out of this.”

 She heard him snort. She glared. 

 “You know, we act more of a couple than couples do.” 

 “Well, it’s a good thing we aren’t one then.” She bit back

 Sebastian glared at her remark. Okay, she could have been a bit nicer with her response. Clearing his throat. “You’re right. It’s a good thing we aren’t.” The tone of his voice icy, his hand dropping from her. Great, neither one was saying or doing anything right tonight. 

 Sebastian’s mouth twitched in annoyance, licking his bottom lip. “You know what? You’re right, bed sounds like a good idea.” It was obvious her words had stung. He took a step back. 

 It was her turn to reach out for him. “Wait.” She said with a sigh. “You said you were looking for me.” She stated softly. Despite the feeling of anger towards him at the moment, she still cared. And she wanted to know he was okay. Something had obviously happened between the time he was at the bar to the time he walked outside. Then it dawned on her. “What happened with Cassidy?” He gave her a dubious look. “Oh right.” She mumbled. 

 This is why they were having this whole fight/argument about. Camille not minding her own business.

 Sebastian furrowed his eyebrows and said dejectedly. “Think whatever you want Camille. I already said I was sorry. I mean, you’re the one letting other people off the hook over worse things.”

 Camille’s jaw dropped at his words. “I’m sorry not all of us can be perfect like you.” She snarled. “I’m sorry I can’t just snap my fingers and make all these feelings disappear.” Her voice breaking. She was projecting her emotions. That was fairly obvious. “Unlike you, I can’t seem to push my feelings-.”

 “You want to know why I was looking for you?” he interjected, before Camille had the chance to continue. “The reason why I was so upset? Why I’m still so pissed off?” He snarled. Camille jumped slightly at the tone of his voice, pressing her lips together to keep from speaking. She could have snapped and told him to fuck off but the look in his eyes stopped her. Why? Because they mirrored her own feelings of confusion, hurt, anger and sadness. And just like hers, they were caused by someone else. Sebastian continued. “Cass let Leighton know about tonight. It shouldn’t fucking matter, she is free to go wherever the hell she wants, but Cassidy’s brilliant plan was to get us together- for what? I don’t fucking know.”

 Camille watched him, unsure if she should speak. He clearly needed to vent his frustrations of seeing his ex-girlfriend. Before she could stop herself.  “You didn’t have to talk that way to her.” Referring to Cassidy, then bit her lower lip. Maybe she did need to learn how to stay out of other people’s business.

 “I know.” Sebastian mumbled, running his fingers through his short hair, before locking eyes with her. And there he was again- the gentle Sebastian. The one she had come to know and care for in the last months. The one who always made her laugh, and feel safe and good about herself.

 “What did she do?” Camille found herself asking. 

 “It doesn’t matter.” He said with a shake of his head.

 Camille groaned in frustration. “Fine, kept shutting me out.”

 He glowered. “You have your own things to deal with-.”

 “What are you? 12 years old? Besides you were the one that told me there was no shame in talking to him.” She reminded.

 “You’re right. I did say that.”

 Camille narrowed her eyes, knowing exactly what he doing, trying to deflect. “You wanted to talk. That’s why you came looking for me right?” she paused. “Then talk to me.” Almost pleading.  

 Pursing his lips together, Sebastian shut his eyes, as if debating with himself about whether he wanted to share or not. Opening his eyes again, he spoke. “I found out from mutual friends…that she was not being faithful while we were together.”

 Her stomach dropped at the words. They were all too familiar. Quickly, things started to make sense now. Why he had been so hesitant to talk about Leighton. Why he wouldn’t take her calls. Her face must have held a look of shock, because he smiled despite everything. “Why are you smiling?”

 “Because- this is why I hadn’t said anything.” Walking toward the living room, plopping himself down on the couch. “The look on your face. I didn’t want to make you feel-.”

 She felt a bubble of annoyance hit her stomach. “I hate when people tell me how to feel.” She warned with a raised eyebrow. “Why don’t you let me be the one to decide that?” Following his lead, she made her way toward the living room, sitting on the arm of the couch. “It didn’t cross your mind that maybe I would be able to relate?” 

 “It did.”

 “You could have talked to me-.”

 “And I told you I wasn’t ready.” He gripped. “Besides you have your own shit to deal with...” 

 Maybe it was the fatigue of the last few days, combine with the events from earlier in the evening, plus their own feelings but Camille felt the very little self-control and reserve evaporate her body. “Which you’re shaming me for.” She snipped back, standing up, nervously playing the shoulder straps of her dress.

 He gritted his teeth. “You’re a grown woman Camille. And we both know it’s not what I’m trying to do. Don’t try and make this into something it’s not.” Getting up from the couch, and walking around it to get to her. "I just don't want you getting hurt. Again." he confessed. He was standing in front of her now. 

Giving him a sad smile, she said. “It’s too late for that.” He opened his mouth, but she waved a hand dismissively. “This isn’t about me anyway.” And it wasn’t. Yes there was shit she was dealing with but it didn’t make her blind to others problems. Especially Sebastian. He snorted taking a step back. “What?” She asked. 

“This isn’t something that can be fixed.” 

“I know that. I’m not trying to.” She argued, getting aggravated with him again. “I just thought maybe you could use someone to talk to.” Slipping her heels off, she bend down to pick them up. “Goodnight.” She simply stated, gripping the straps of the heels, and turning in the direction of bedroom hall. Camille wasn’t going to argue anymore.

 “That’s it?” Sebastian called after her.

 “Yep.” Camille said over her shoulder. She was a few feet from the guest bedroom door when she felt a hand grasp her wrist. Without looking at him, she said. “I’m exhausted Sebastian. And we just keep going around in circles with this conversation, so I’m going to bed.” Rubbing her temple with the palm of her free hand. “I’m not trying to force you tell me how you’re feeling, it’s not my place- you’re right. But it doesn’t mean you have to be dick about it.”

 He tighten the grip on her. “Camille.” He pleaded, but she refused to make eye contact. He released her hand and she let out a sigh of relief, but it quickly turned into a gasp of surprise when she felt Sebastian slip around her, standing between the bedroom door and her. She shut her eyes, taking a deep breath. “Look at me.” He ordered gently.

 Camille’s eyes fluttered open, a small frown on her lips. He had one hand gripping on to the door handle, while his eyes searched her face. After what seemed like an eternity, Sebastian whispered. “This isn’t easy.” At those words, Camille finally met his gaze in curiosity. He didn’t have to elaborate, Camille knew exactly what he meant, but it still didn’t get him off the hook. He inched closer. He was so much taller that he hovered over Camille, those blue eyes dropping to her lips. Tilting his head to one side as if deciding what to say next.

 The way he was eyeing her at the moment made her break the gaze. “Sebastian…” she started, trying to push past him to get into the room.

 “Cam-.”

 She furiously shook her head. “No, Sebastian.” Giving him a small shove that made him drop his hand from the door knob. The anger from earlier resurfacing. “I’m done.” Trying to not be distracted by those long eyelashes.

 “You’re the one that wanted me to talk about it!” Pointing to himself in disbelief. “I can’t fucking win with you tonight!” he mumbled.

 At those worse, Camille felt every inch of her body heat up, but she wasn’t going to argue. Instead, she reached behind him and gripped on to the door knob, twisting and pushing the door open behind him. His jaw dropped in surprise at how quickly she pushed past him, into the spare room. “You’re right, you can’t. So let’s just stop okay?”

 “You don’t mean that.”  But Camille was already closing the door in his face.

[lovelybones81]

Unthinkable -Updated 3/28

Summary: Seven years, three movies, two people, one story. But before they can get their happily ever after, Sebastian Stan and Camille Solis must learn to trust in each other and in themselves, before allowing the unthinkable to happen.

Warnings: Fluff, future smut, Language, Angst, mental health, WOC lead character

Rating: NC-17

NOTE: I come with a chapter! xoxo Again thank you for being so patient! This one comes with some angst!

Chapter 15   The Hard Stuff

 “Dude! Where the hell have you been?” Chace Crawford exclaimed, gently slapping Sebastian on the chest.

 Sebastian distractedly took a long drag from his cigarette. “Huh? What?” Blowing the smoke from one side of his mouth, his eyes wondering around the large outside terrace. “Have you seen Cass?” He asked, ignoring Chace question completely. “Or Camille?” 

 Chace gave his friend a curious look, but before having the chance to respond, a female voice interrupted. “Chace!” she whined. “I thought we were going to dance?” Sebastian frowned in annoyance at the voice.

 “Get us another round of drinks.” Chace ordered sweetly. “I’ll be right in.” The woman didn’t argue, just gave him a beaming smile, turning on her heels and making her way back inside. Once the admirer was out of sight, Chace turned back to Sebastian. “What happened to you?”

 At the same time Sebastian asked again. “Have you seen Cam?”

 Yes, Camille. That’s who he needed to talk to. He wasn’t sure what would come out of his mouth if he found Cassidy first. He was fuming. 

 “I saw Cass inside with-. “  Chace stopped as realization hit his face. “Oh.” His eyes widening. 

 “Yeah.” Sebastian muttered after taking another long puff. 

 “C’mon man, you know she didn’t mean any harm-“ 

 Sebastian glared. “She needs to learn how to stay out of people’s damn business.” Taking an angry puff off his cigarette. Camille, himself, Alyssa and Chace had an early dinner. Then met up with a few other mutual friends at a high-end bar/club Chace has suggested. He had been having a pleasant night until about twenty minutes ago. The night has been going pretty smooth, with drinks, dancing, laughing and flirting all around. He even gotten a nice buzz after a few beers, but it slowly began to fade when someone bumped into him at the bar. 

 His first thought was: Camille coming to join him after she had disappeared to the ladies room. But he had been mistaken. Sebastian hadn’t talked or seen his ex-girlfriend since the breakup. At first, it had been because of their busy work schedules, but eventually it was by Sebastian’s choice. As more time passed, a few things had begun to come to light about her unfaithfulness during their time together.

 “She must have put her up to this-. “  Chace said, trying to defend Cassidy. 

 “Yea well- she should have known better.” Sebastian growled, putting the beer bottle up to his mouth. Wanting desperately to get the alcohol buzz back. He knew drinking was not the answer, but it was the only thing he could control. Beer and a cigarette was all he needed at the moment-and talking to Camille. 

 “Camille did come out here with me...” Chace mumbled, looking around his surroundings with concern. “Wait-she was with Cassidy before you went to the bar. I thought she-“ 

 Chugging the last bit of his beer, he tossed the empty bottle in the trash can closest to him and snorted. “I think I would have noticed if she has been standing next to Leighton.” He might have reacted a bit nicer if Camille had been around. Instead all the anger, confusion and hurt had seeped out and he had been nothing but snippy with Leighton and Cassidy. And from the expression on Cassidy’s face, she had thought she was doing a service putting them together in the same room. But before Sebastian had the chance to say anything, she quickly disappeared with a lame excuse. Leaving him alone with his ex. 

 By then, people had started to gawk and Sebastian knew he would have to be the adult and walk away. He wasn’t as well-known as other actors but in the New York scene people knew who he was. And they especially knew about the relationship with Leighton. So he said his hello through gritted teeth, even giving her a quick hug before walking away. It had not been enough. She followed and cornered him, wanting an explanation on why he had been avoiding her phone calls. Before he even realized what was happening they had made their way into one of the VIP bathrooms, bickering and fighting. 

 It wasn’t his style. But something inside of him hated the fact that she had shown up at the same bar he was at. Because he knew it had not been a coincidence. She planned this.

 “Oh wait.” Chace started. “She got a phone call!” nodding vigorously at his revelation.  

 “Who?”

 “Camille!” He peeked over his shoulder. “So she’s out here somewhere.”

 Sebastian laughed despite his mood. “Thanks man.” Placing a hand on top of Chace’s shoulder. “Did you see which way she went?”

 “Toward the other side of the terrace…I think.”

 Glancing down at the watch Camille had given him for his birthday, he wondered who she was on the phone with. It was past midnight in New York, and even though it was 2 hours earlier in Los Angeles, he was pretty sure Tia Yolanda was already in bed. Which meant she was most likely on the phone with her sister.  

 He took a puff from his cigarette once more before speaking.  “I’ll find her.” 

 Chace nodded. “Cool.” Glancing eagerly over Sebastian’s shoulder into the inside of the bar. 

 Sebastian smirked. “Didn’t you send her to fetch drinks?” He teased.  

 Chace glared back at Sebastian. “Ha-ha.” He said sarcastically. “I’ll catch you later.” He must have spotted the female admirer inside because Sebastian didn’t even get a chance to say a word before Chace quickly disappeared back into the bar.

 Shaking his head, Sebastian turned on his heels in the opposite direction, in search of Camille. The outside terrace was bigger than he expected, for the next 15 minutes he walked virtually all the way around with no sight of her. He was about to give up and head back inside, but came to a halt- from the corner of his eye, he spotted her leaning into the rails of the terrace, half of her body turned to him, with one elbow slanted over the top of the rail, her head tilted to the other side. Sebastian’s eyes looked her up and down. Once again, flabbergasted of how strikingly beautiful she was- even if it was from the back side. Tonight she had chosen to wear a dark pencil skirt with a low back cream cami, outlining every single curve and strappy heels to match, her curls up, divulging her neck.

 Sebastian licked his lips sensually, putting the last bit of his cigarette out in the corner ashtray, forgetting for a split minute why he’d been looking for her in the first place. His thoughts couldn’t help but drift to whether or not she was wearing anything else underneath the skirt.

 But as quickly as the thought came to him, the faster he chastised himself for thinking it. Besides, checking her ass out was not the reason he had been looking for her.

 What he needed was his friend who would listen to him. For the last few weeks he had been trying not to burden her with his problems, but now realized he did need someone to talk to. Camille’s words from the night before resonating; about him being her best friend. He felt the same way. Camille was now part of his core of friends, one of his best friends. He wasn’t sure of where their relationship was going to lead or end up -if earlier conversation was any indication (it felt like a seesaw at times trying to guess who would pull who down first) but they were in each other lives now and Sebastian wouldn’t have it any other way.

 She was intently into her conversation she hadn’t notice him nearing closer. He stood a few feet away, his ears picking up on the phone call. 

 “Did you drive?” Camille asked in a troubled tone. There was a pause on the other end as she listened to whomever was speaking. She spoke again. “Okay- I mean is there any way you could have someone drive you home? Or pick you up? You shouldn’t be driving-.” She pleaded softly. The person on the other line must have been arguing because he heard Camille say: “Promise me you’ll get someone to take you home.” She urged. “Do you want me to call-. “ Getting interrupted again. 

 Sebastian watched her body language, one finger nervously playing with a few curls that had fallen from the top of her head. Sighing she spoke again. “I know you’re sorry-but we can-.“ But not able to finish her sentence, instead she let out an exasperated sound. “Why?” Another pause, as the voice on the other side of the line spoke. “Because you’ve had a lot to drink and you aren’t making any sense right now.” Camille’s voice sounding defeated as she straighten up, back still to Sebastian. 

 He wasn’t all the way sober, but the pieces slowly started to fit together on who she was on the phone with. And it made him clinch his jaw in annoyance. Wasn’t she avoiding his calls? Isn’t that what she had asked him to do earlier in the park? Hit the ignore button on her phone? Why hadn’t she done that again?

 “I know you wish it wouldn’t have happen.” Camille lamented. Sebastian knew he should not be eavesdropping, but couldn’t seem to move from his spot. “But it did. And I really don’t want to talk about this-.”  David must have interrupted because she was quiet for a few more seconds. “Right now you just need to find a way to get home.” 

 Sebastian felt his stomach tighten in anger, listening to her plead with him. And why the hell was David calling anyway? She was thousands of miles away, she couldn’t do anything from New York. Why couldn’t he just leave her alone? 

 “David-this isn’t the time.” Anxiously tugging on the curl wrapped around d her finger. “I-I don’t know when-but it’s not right now.” She stammered. “No I can’t come home.” Another long pause. “It’s not that-.“ Stomping her foot lightly on the ground beneath her. “Don’t!” Camille exclaimed in her best stern voice. 

 Sebastian had the sudden urge to take the phone from her and throw it over the terrace. Yet a part of him was annoyed with her as well. Why continue to torture herself? 

 “If you show up, you know Nat will not hesitate to call the police.” Camille warned. “And I can’t meet you. I’m not back in LA yet.” Letting out a dejected sigh, as if she knew the conversation was not going to lead anywhere new.

 She spoke again. “What? I’m not understanding.” David must’ve repeated himself because the next words out of Camille’s mouth were: “I’m not sure. Maybe in the next few days?” Slowly turning around so she rested against the terrace rail and at the same time tossed her head back. “No, not in Manchester.” Sebastian heard her murmur. He must’ve asked where she was, because she hesitated to answer. “Just promise me you’ll fine away to get home.” Trying to change the subject. “I can’t stay on the phone with you all night.” 

 Even though she no longer had her back to him, she still hadn’t notice him standing there. She was quiet for a few minutes, the phone still to her ear, listening. 

 “This is not how we should be having this conversation.” She started again. “Why have I been avoiding you? Because this hasn’t been easy for me and I needed to try and deal with it.” Another long pause. “Hold on I can’t hear you.” 

 Sebastian watched her take the phone away from her ear to tap the screen. 

 “I want us to work this out.” David’s voice came over the speaker phone. “I miss you.” His words slurring. 

 “Just get home.” Camille repeated. “Okay?” 

 “No!” David’s voice adamant. “Not until you say we will-will work this out. Not until you say you’ll talk to me when you get back here.” He pushed, and she shut her eyes, not saying a word. “Camille? Ille…” he pleaded.

 It didn’t take a rocket scientist to see the hurt in her as she listened to David plead with her. If he could only see what his actions were doing to her.

 “These last few weeks haven’t been easy.” She confessed. 

 “I know sweetheart. And it’s my fault.” David replied, his words still slurring. “I love you Camille. I-I love you.” 

 She rubbed a hand nervously over her face. “I know David.” 

 “Then let me p-prove it. Let’s talk okay? Please. I know you still love me. We’ve been together too long to just end things this way.” He was begging now, that was obvious. 

 Good. He didn’t deserve her. 

 Camille folded one arm across her chest bringing the other arm up with the phone up to her face, listening. Sebastian watched her quickly wipe a tear away. “I’m gonna get off the phone.” She managed to say. 

 “Wait-sweetheart-“ 

 She shook her head even if though he couldn’t see it. “No, no. I gotta go.” It was almost as if she was trying to convince herself. “You’ve obviously have had a lot to drink and I’m not exactly the most sober person right now... and answering was a mistake.” Taking in a shaky breath. 

 David wasn’t giving up so easily. Sebastian heard him quickly speak again. “Okay, okay-at least think about it? Please? Say you’ll think about seeing me when-when you get home?” 

 Camille wiped another tear from her face before answering. “If I do-will you head home right now? Have someone pick you up?” She tried to bargain. 

 “Yeah. Yes.” 

 “Okay-I’ll think about it.” 

 “Yeah?”

 “Yes.” Camille stated. 

 “Great!” David said too enthusiastically for Sebastian’s taste. “You know I love you right? I love you.” He repeated for what seemed the 100th time in the past 10 minutes.

 Sebastian watched Camille turn to lean into the terrace railing again. “I know.” Sebastian heard her say. “I...love you too.” 

 Sebastian ran his fingers through his hair, feeling like someone has just stung him in the chest, listening to Camille say those three little words to someone else. He knew he shouldn’t be listening. It wasn’t his business. Camille was a grown woman after all. Barely hearing Camille say goodbye to David, he turned on his heels, hoping she wouldn’t notice. 

 “Seb?” He heard her call out. 

 He stopped mid-step, jaw twitching, eyes shut. Well, so much for that idea. Slowly he turned back in her direction. She stood in the same spot, only this time facing him, her phone gripped tightly in her hand, a forced smile on her beautiful face. 

 “No wine?” She tried to tease making her way toward him. 

 “Huh?” 

 “I thought you went to the bar to get us drinks?” 

 “You disappeared on me, so it just seemed useless.” He said in an edgy tone, not sure where it was coming from. Camille must have noticed too because her eyes widen in surprise. 

 “What’s wrong?” She quickly asked, taking a closer step. 

 Sebastian shook his head, not meeting her gaze. “Nothing.” He lied. 

 Was she going to tell me him about David? Or just pretend like the conversation had just not happen? What the hell was wrong him?! Who was he to demand any explanation from her? But he couldn’t seem to control his emotions at the moment. He was annoyed and angry on how she handled the whole situation with David.

 “Liar.” Camille stated with a suspicious glare.

 Her response only infuriated him. So he snapped back. “Are you okay?” mirroring the same look she had given him.

 Tilting her head to one side, she broke the gaze for a split second, pressing her lips together before locking eyes again.  “I’m fine. What makes you think I’m not?” 

 So she was going to pretend as if the phone call hadn’t happen. “Just making an observation.” 

 Wrinkling her forehead. “Did I do something to upset you?” She asked cautiously 

 Was he upset? Fuck yes he was. His cheating ex-girlfriend had just cornered him, and he had just heard the girl he had feelings for confess her love to her cheating ex fiancé, so yes he was a little upset. And confused. And he needed another cigarette and beer to deal with this. Could he possibly be overacting? Yes. But his drunk ass was not listening to reason at the moment.  

 Shrugging nonchalantly he responded. “No. Why would I be?” 

 If he wasn’t irritated himself he would have been scared of the dirty look she was giving him. She shrugged and snipped back. “Just making an observation of my own.”  

 Sebastian wasn’t sure how long they stood there -just staring, but it was obvious they were both trying to figure out what the other one was thinking. He spoke up first. “We should probably get back inside with everyone else.” Pointing in the direction of the club. 

 Camille’s face soften, reaching out to touch his elbow. “Wait- Sebastian what’s going on?”

 He knew he could talk to Camille, that’s why he had been looking for her in the first place. But after hearing (fine, eavesdropping) on the conversation, he was hesitant to do so. It didn’t make sense, it was just how he was feeling at the moment. “Nothing.” He repeated, forcing a smile. “I just need another beer.” Patting his back pocket. “And maybe a cigarette…” he mumbled to himself. Where the hell did he leave his pack? Maybe his behavior was a bit petty, he just couldn’t help himself.  He patted his pants again. “Where the hell did I put them?” He mumbled to himself. He looked up in surprise when Camille handed him the pack. 

 “You asked me to hold on to them while you went to the bar.” She reminded with a small smile. 

 “Thanks.” He muttered. Shit, he had. That conversation felt like so long ago now. They had been flirting for most of the night. Getting closer and closer as they sat in the VIP area with the rest of his friends when he’d realized Camille’s glass was empty. So he offered to get them refills. 

 “Sure.” Camille answered, gripping tightly on to her phone. 

 Glancing down at her hands, Sebastian found himself asking. “Were you on the phone with someone?” He didn’t know why he had asked but a part of him wanted to know what her answer would be. 

 Camille looked anywhere but his face, licking her lips nervously with a shake of her head. “No.” She answered simply. “Just needed some air.” 

 He gave a small nod back, taking another cigarette out of the pack. Okay, so she wasn’t going to tell him about the phone call. Why did it bother him so much? Because for the last months they shared everything. Not sure of what else to say, he put the cigarette to his lips.  

 Camille took another step closer, facing him. Without warning she took it out of his mouth. “What happened?” 

 He glared, trying to grab it back from her. “What are you talking about?” 

 She tilted her head, narrowing her eyes. “Well, 20 minutes ago you were all happy and drunk and now you look like someone hurt your puppy.” She tried to joke.  

 He was getting tired of this conversation. What was the big deal? She didn’t need to know his mood change had to do with her and his ex. “You’re right- I’m upset.” He started. “I’m upset because I’m out of beer.” Trying his best to not sound cross with her, he forced a smile, but it quickly faded when he spotted Cassidy walking toward them. Camille opened her mouth to respond, but shut it when she saw the look on his face. She slowly turned her head, following his gaze. Cassidy stood a few feet away, nervously bouncing on the balls of her heels. He clinched his fists at the sight of her. He needed to control his anger. Or at least try.  

 Cassidy tugged a strand of blond hair behind her ear, slowly walking over to them.  “Sebastian, I’m so sorry.” She stated quickly. “I had no idea she was going to do that…“ Stammering the last part. 

 Sebastian couldn’t help but glare. “You know Cass -you should really learn how to stay out of peoples business.” He barked. 

 “Sebastian-. “  Camille warned. 

 But he wasn’t listening. He was angry. Why did everyone else think they knew more about his relationships than he did? Cassidy had been pushing for Leighton and him to reconcile for weeks now. “You knew exactly what would happen.” He accused. Camille watched the both of them, not sure of what was going on. Sebastian continued. “You just have to be the middle of everything...” 

 Cassidy eyes widen at the words. “I said I was-“ 

 Sebastian brought a hand up. “If I were you- I would keep quiet because nothing you say is going to change any of this.” He snapped. If he wasn’t so upset he would have felt a bit guilty at the way she looked right now. 

 “Sebastian-. “  He heard Camille repeat softly. “Maybe this can be talked over tomorrow?” She suggested. “When everyone is a bit more sober?” 

 Breaking the gaze from Cassidy, he looked back at Camille, his jaw twitching. “This really doesn’t concern you.” He blurted out.

 Camille raised both eyebrows, in confusion and hurt. But it quickly fade, the look in her eyes held anger as she narrowed them at him. Chewing on her lower lip she cleared her throat, taking a step back from him. “You’re right.” She said shortly. “I’m sorry.” Looking between them. “I’ll be inside…getting another drink.”

 Fuck. Fuck. Fuck. Sebastian let out a large frustrated sigh. He hadn’t meant to make her feel alienated, he just didn’t know how to handle all these damn feelings at the moment. And he wasn’t thinking clearly. He watched her take two steps (leaving Cassidy standing there) before he quickly made his way to her, grabbing onto her elbow. “Camille, wait- I’m-I’m sorry-“  

 Camille glanced at him over her shoulder, eyes not showing any emotion. “It’s fine.” Trying to break free from his grip. “Let go.” She ordered through gritted teeth. Sebastian knew better than to argue. He dropped his hand and she gave him a grim smile. “Thank you.” And without another word, walked away from him.

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