#wish us luck that we would be able to meet our deadlines

[sofiaruelle]

Elliot and his emotional support crab burning the midnight oil.

[duckieeart]

Victor’s - Moody Date

Hello! This is my entry for @little-butterfly-writes ‘s Contest . It’s my first time writing and I really enjoyed the process of it, enjoy reading this date!

Fandom: MLQC - Victor Li x Duckie (Mc)

Genre : jealousy jealousy jealousy , comfort , Filled with romance ( fluff)

Word count : 3,309

As If its not obvious enough to everybody.

I have feelings towards my boss, victor Li. I did fall in love with a person that I know i can’t reach even if i had him in my wildest dreams. I all i am wishing for is that no one know about these hidden feelings hoping that i will be able to maintain the decision i took and forget about him, But unfortunately things goes unplanned after I experienced certain feeling. jealousy .

If Kiki , Anna , the rest of my friends and colleagues found out about my secret feelings including the letters I wrote about victor secretly , I would get in big trouble , what letters you may ask? It’s simple. Basically, when i feel like I can’t control the love i feel towards him . I write down all my feelings in a letter and hide it somewhere , i got this idea from a movie i watched last year. At first , I haven’t thought not in a million years that I would use this idea and especially writing my unwanted feelings towards my CEO ,Aka victor li .

He was very strict and seemed to be very rude, i used to hate on him . He isn’t my type in men plus we’re completely different. Its not a big surprise since he is the CEO of an worldwide successful company ,LFG.

Just to clarify our differences. He made his company from the beginning meanwhile me, A young lady who inherited a show from her father once she Graduated from college. I didn’t even have an experience in life or the business field.

Everything were so difficult to me and it felt like an endless maze , the fact that I have him as my investor was like a miracle . Not only that but he really take good care of me . He is older in age , with a mature mindset . I am just young reckless, hesitant and inexperienced girl who just got a big position and so naive comparing to what she is responsible for .

I thought alot about giving up but victor make me change my mind and Instead of giving up he gave me the motivation to challenge him , i was in the mood to show him and prove to him that i can take the harsh responsibilities like an adult And be someone who is trust worthy enough to have his five hundred million investment in my show .

With time, i fall in love with him. And with everyday goes by it only grows bigger and bigger than the day before. The more i try to hide my feelings. The more it becomes obvious . When he confessed his feelings to me that day in the rooftop. I was beyond happy. I couldn’t sleep that day. But I quickly get back to the harsh reality, and remembered the huge gap between us, Victor deserve someone near to his position. Not me, comparing to him i am just a crybaby who rant about submitting reports and dealing with the deadlines every week .

But one day, I don’t know what’s goes inside my brain . I couldn’t even control my own body. When i found out that Victor would go to the awards banquet with another woman, I stopped thinking and I couldn’t care less about how weird i am behaving with my colleagues . In that night , i saw victor leaving the fancy banquet hall with another woman.

She looks way more mature and wiser than me. To put it in simple words she has everything i lack, and to my unfortunate luck. She does everything way better than me . And tonight , I witnessed My heart sinking in the ground. Its like i just got drenched in icy cold water in this snowy weather . I drank Alot . Wine, whiskey and even brandy . I couldn’t even recognize the bitterness in them . I just drink to be numb and ease my heart.

When the banquet came to an end ..

“ you two can head home first, its late . The weather is pretty today so i just want to walk and be alone for some time “ I spoke with a shaky voice tone, then left after grabbing my hand bag from the table.

“ whats wrong with our boss? She’s has been acting weird these few days especially today” Kiki spoke to anna.

Anna were worried as well , she just shrugs in confusion replying to kikis question.

“ i have never seen her like that before!” Anna added

“ it’s dangerous to let her be alone !, we can’t just leave her there! “ kiki said

“ she wanted time to get her self together, I think its very inappropriate for us to interrupt her wishes . * she smiled * Don’t worry minor would keep his eyes on her from afar “ Anna said while patting Kiki s shoulder gently to comfort her .

After leaving them. i rushed to the back beautiful garden to try and process everything happened tonight , the scenery were amazing but I couldn’t focus and appreciate it , I started regretting what i did, I shouldn’t push him away acting dumb and slow from the beginning. I love him more than anything, I admit i am very jealous and I don’t know how to deal with it because its my first time feeling this way about someone. I have never wanted someone as much I do for Victor.

These feelings were so exhausting to bear alone ,I was so hopeless that i even shared my story anonymously in tumbler with people but everyone advised me to stay away and forget about him for endless reasons. Yeah, they were right. But..

I also can’t… I CANT STOP LOVING HIM AND GIVE UP ON THIS . people wont have mercy on us and our relationship since we are a boss and worker in love but now seeing this . Realizing I might lose him forever. I don’t care, seeing him taking care of a random woman and accompanying her in the banquet really make me rethink about everything and even that thoughtful decision i took and was so confident about . I decided to head to the parking section for cars to follow them. I started running like crazy .

“GOD PLEASE PLEASE LET ME MAKE IT , PLEASE DONT LET THEM LEAVE TOGETHER ! . PLEASE.. I CANT LOSE HIM THIS TIME” i said begging .

I can lose anything and everything, but not him. I can’t lose Victor!

Because no one loved me like he did And I can’t imagine falling in love again with a different man.

Suddenly my foot slipped and i fall.

The expensive pair of high heel that i brought got ruined too. One of them broke But I couldn’t stop here! Im still in the middle of the way . My legs started be numb and it hurt a little because these shoes were new too , But I didn’t care, I can’t lose the path that can lead me to them! I still have to find Victor!

When i reached to the cars parking space , I couldn’t find them…

My nose suddenly started to burn and my eyes started sweating?, i decided to go back inside the banquet and sit . I couldn’t find chair there so I went to sit the corner on the stairs like a lost child. I started to cry heartily like a baby who lost her parents . But for me comparing to the baby I lost everything, I lost Victor..

My body is shaking and I couldn’t stop the thoughts in my mind. My mind went wild and started to even imagining how they would look together in the church . Kissing each other passionately after announcing them as a husband and wife. My heart suddenly started to beat so fast and I began to struggle breathing , while sobbing quietly.

Suddenly i felt a warm coat landed on my head, shoulders and has familiar manly scent ..

my face were swallowed, especially my eyes and nose. I was slow to react and realizing that this coat belongs to him…. And only him. Victor..

I felt strange feeling , i was happy and relieved that i was able to meet him again.. and that happiness give me strange feelings in my tummy . I believe that’s what they call “butterflies in the stomach” , I felt really warm. I don’t think it’s because of that coat. But him. Who give them his scent and body temperature

“ * sigh helplessly at the view* Dummy.. what are you doing here in this condition ? Don’t you know it’s dangerous area, especially in this hour? What if someone came for you ? Or even decided to kidnap you ,taking you away ? What are going to do? I searched everywhere for you and I couldn’t find you its like you weren’t in this earth from the beginning , WHERE THE HECK YOU WERE??? ………. But most importantly are you okay? Did something happen?……… Duckie , are you crying? “

my eyes couldn’t stop the tears from coming out when he were talking in such an sharp voice, he was really worried so he was furious to see me in such a state alone , but when he noticed that i was crying so hard, sniffing and wiping my eyes his voice turned so soft and calm

he grabbed my hands and hold them between his hands to warm them up

I refused to talk or face him because i wasn’t looking at my best right now, he just kneeled down to my level like prince charming and looked at me, he noticed how swallowed and red my face are.. he reached with his hands to hold my cheeks while massaging my under eyes

“ do they hurt A lot? “ he said quietly ,

I nodded while looking in the ground, my eyes fell upon his shoes trying to avoid his glare.

“If you don’t want to tell me, that’s fine too. Lets go home first … its getting late” he said..

I nodded because i was too tired to reply using sentences . I stand and remembered my broken heels and slightly injured foot.

Before I could explain, Victor carried me bridal style , I didn’t needed to explain anything. I felt warm , safe and happy, that I forget that I’m being held between his arms . I gave up to the warm sensation and fall asleep.

Victor put me in his car gently , wrapping my body with his big coat then went to grab hot tea and body warmers from the super market near by.

i took some time to wake up, when i wake up i was still in his car , the car was really warm. I didn’t find Victor on the driver seat so i looked outside.

i saw him tapping on his tablet working and answering calls . I also noticed that we’re near the sea and its 12am . I took my time appreciating the view , then i knocked at the window. Victor saw me and returned to the car.

“ you wake up, how do you feel now ? “ he asked with a soft voice

“ i am better now , sorry for making a scene back there. I was really upset about something so i was drunk , angry and upset thats why I decided to be alone , sorry i worried you and caused you trouble “i said while looking into his eyes.

“ dummy… And why did you drink? “ he said angrily ..

“ please don’t be mad i was just so upset, can’t you just allow me to drink only this time?” I said

“ yes, i am angry at you… but also glad to see you safe and better. After all , i can’t ask for more from dummy like you” victor said then poked the tip of my nose lightly with his fingers , after that he patted my head gently, smiling at me .

“ its late, let’s head home” he said

After few minutes driving i realized that we are in different path and its unfamiliar to me.

“ where are we going “ i asked hesitantly ..

“ to My home” he said

“ to your home??”

“Well, only if your apartment was nearby like my home. Its late already, just sleep tonight in my house” he said calmly

I nodded in agreement.

After few minutes we arrived.

Victor opened the door for me , i entered inside . His home was big but also felt so warm and cozy . Victor turned to face me “ go and take a hot shower, then dry your hair. Don’t get cold. I asked them to prepare you clothes. If you need anything ask me “ he said

i went to the room. It was big as expected and has a fancy bathtub. After i finished showering and preparing for bed. When i was about to head to sleep, I suddenly heard knocks on my door .

“Get in “ i said

The door was opened and it was victor, he was wearing his classic black pjs

“ as expected, you didn’t even dry your hair yet you headed to sleep anyways“ he said..

“What if you get cold?” He added

He went to grab a hairdryer from the drawer . Then turned to face me

“ come here” he said

I understand what he want so i sit and give him my back. He started to dry my hair, touching my hair so gently. After he finished drying my hair he took a hair tie and started to tie my hair.

“ there’s something I wanted to say to you” he said

“ hmm? “ I replied

“ i will get to the point “ he said

“ I might not know what exactly that got you so bothered like that , but you must know that there are a lot of circumstances in the world that are out of our control. The causes and reasons behind every circumstance is complicated. In a world where it’s impossible to know everything, it’s normal that we experience things we cannot understand and find difficult to accept. Even so, we have to accept it. There are many ways to accept it. Crying is also one of them. However, only for one night. ( he took my hand that was planning on reaching my face)…. And don’t rub your eyes, it will be better if you leave it and take a good sleep “ he added .

After leaving, he leaned to kiss my head .

“ good night “ he said

“ wait! “ i said

His eyes locked into mine , waiting for me to say what I want to say.

“ why did you went to the banquet, with her? “ i couldn’t stop my curiosity so i asked him .

He chuckled quietly then pinned my chin forcing me to look at him..

“ you jealous? “ he said

A bold idea came up to me ,

“Yes..i am! “ I didn’t wasted time and answered his question seriously.

He was frozen in his place , stopped chuckling and has a surprised face expression .

I gathered all my courage to say the three most difficult words ..

“ i love you victor! “ i said , while looking into his face..

then reached to his face and give him a quick peck on his lips ..

“ don’t make me feel this way again, I hate it !“ i said and then went for another kiss . But He didn’t kiss me back , still surprised by my bold move.

“ when i saw how you looked to her when she was talking to you . You were smiling while and looking into her eyes , I wondered if you ever started to lose your feelings towards me , i was really scared of losing you.. i even started to imagine how you would look in your groom suit .. standing beside her in front of everyone… i was so scared “ my voice cracked at the end.. i felt the tears forming in my eyes

“ I really… really don’t want to lose you . I did my research about her, She won countless times and even has the f-“ my speech were cut off with his hot kiss .

He closed his eyes and rested his one hand on the back of my head and the other on my neck.

He pulled his lips away from mine when he noticed how i was struggling to breathe.

“ … you talk too much” he said while maintaining his sharp eyes on me.

“Since when you had these thoughts on that little brain of yours? Instead of using it on useless things, apply this effort and worry about your unfinished weekly report instead. You thought I haven’t noticed how distracted you were ?“ Victor said.

“ relax dummy , Lili is just an older sister to me. She asked if i can company her since her husband on business trip outside china. Lili is busy in work but also dealing with three kids at the same time. I was just helping her manage the deal she had with SJ company , you don’t have to worry that little head of yours on such matters “ victor added.

“ Duckie, i searched for you, and luckily after 10017 years i was able to meet you again. The little head of yours could never imagine how bad I wanted to see that silly smile of yours again. I waited for so long , and you better make it up to me. In other words , Be mine” victor said , while holding my left cheek and went for another breathless kiss ..

“ i —-love —-you——-, Dummy “ he said between his kisses ..

“ don’t close your eyes, look at me when iam talking to you. You know that i love when you’re bold with me, right?” he said smiling at me then slightly biting my lower lip ..

“I was so happy when i met you, in the end of the banquet . I thought you went with her“ i said while having a big silly smile on my face

“ There is only one thing you should be happy about……. It has always been you and only you” he said while looking at my eyes and holding my hot blushing cheeks in his big hand .

After making out sessions for straight two hours , he lay me down on the bed pulling the quilt over my body.

“ go to sleep, and NEVER think about theses useless matters . if you want to ask me something Just ask me directly ... Goodnight dummy” he said ..

“Good night” i replied softly

He smiled then give me a final forehead kiss and went outside the room after dimming the lights ..

In the next day i went to LFG to submit my weekly report , suddenly i received a call from Kiki

“ boss, i made a surprise for you!! you are going to thank me for it . Don’t overthink about it, and just enjoy the surprise” she said while giggling in mischievous manner.

She closed the call, i was nervous and curious at the same time but I didn’t pay much attention on that because I didn’t have much time left, i have weekly report to submit! . I hurried to victors office and luckily I arrived on time but I found my secret love letters has been opened on victors office already and he had one of them on his hand , taking his time reading it while drinking his coffee ..

he noticed me standing near the door , surprised and embarrassed . Victor smirked in anticipation

“ You have a lot of explainings to do , Producer Duckie “ he said while giving me smirky face

what a Great start to my day.

The End

Thank you for reading, see you next time!

[whaleofatjme1920]

[CP/MH, Romantic relationship X] ] Hi Tim, If I were to be honest with you, I’d prefer to write this in Japanese for unimportant reasons. But well, here I am writing it in English (lol) First of all, how have you been? Hope you are doing well. Education for me have been…a mixture of hidden pain and unseen misery (dramatic use for words huh?) We’re going back to the dorms (or in other words, campus) in a few months and I am not truly looking forward to it. I don’t think I would have much time to write to you then, but, I probably still would. But! On the bright side, I get to see my friends. There’s this one friend I’ve been wanting to see (not really) He has not been doing well in his exam and I worry. That’s because he usually does participate or make an effort, at least. I was picking up my things at campus, hoping to meet him, but luck was not on my side.. Enough with the first topic, education. I was writing this while watching ‘Hey Duggee’. It is very entertaining. Oh and it’s the episode where they get their Biology Badges. Interestingly, they’re kids. Very cute characters. Do I have a favourite? Yes and it’s Roly the baby hippo. Besides me watching Duggee, I played with Ookitsuki, my kitten this evening and she was adorable. I didn’t know cats could roll 3 times in a row. Also, I wonder what were you doing when you receive this. Probably you were out “working” When you receive this, I hope you are well. Right, moving on, my new schedule is such a pain. Waking up at 4am to study until 7am, 7am to 1.30pm is class. Then, I’ll continue to study after 2.30 until 5.30, rest at 6 and 7pm. 8pm until 10pm is night-time study. Wish me luck. I’m not sure what to put here…Well, you must be wondering why I wrote this to you. It’s because I never did write to you before. Oh well, at least here I am writing to you. Hmm, when I am going back to school? Campus? I don’t really care what to call it. Place of Education. Yes, let’s call it that. When i go back there, I’ll be carrying a big responsibility, again. Which is taking care of my whole ‘batch’. They're not all bad, just well, "children" . I like that they're carefree and all. I mean I am to, but, cooperation is and asset (wish you could help me) . Anyways, I might end my letter here. I’ll send you a second one if I need to. Looking forward to your reply.

Sincerely, Kayte. (sorry if this was long ahsjjss)

[Disclaimer: Letters To Those you Hold Dear is a special event I'm holding from December 9th - whenever I feel like closing it! The absolute deadline is December 21st. Find guidelines here so you can send a letter or two to those you hold dear <3]

Hey there sweetheart,

Gods, I'm thankful you didn't write this in Japanese because I've been slacking on my lessons. Tall guy has been on our ass more than usual, shuffling us across the country and I'm tired. Real tired. Brian Hoodie said he thinks we'll be able to stay in one place for more than a few days real soon, but I don't buy it. Enough about that bullshit though, sorry you're going through such bullshit as well. You always were one for the dramatics! Remember that time we went to Walmart at like 3am and let all those bouncy balls go? Can't really remember if you were fond of those dorms or not, but judging by your tone, I'm gonna hope you get through it just fine. I'm really happy you're able to see your friends, wish I could say the same here. I haven't seen Kate in months, apparently the tall guy wants to make her a favored - and we all know how that goes. I've also been meaning to see EJ on account of my migraines going up, but we haven't been able to stop by his old haunts. Really sorry that your friend is acting as weird as he is. I wish I had words of wisdom other than 'shit maybe he just sucks.' I know you'd chide me for being mean but...

Don't think I've ever heard of "Hey Duggee" but that's also because all we're afforded is motel TV. It's awful. When I'm planted, we'll have to watch it together and you can fill me in. Tell your cat I said hi, and give her a few pats for me. And yeah, you're not too far off! We're done for the night. Jeff's dog came by and spat this out at me. Nice to relax by reading your words.

You're a fighter, Kayte. I know you are. But, even you need a break. You're capable of so much and when we're together, you astound me every moment. Honestly, the letter was really nice to get! I hardly get any messages other than 'go here' and 'kill this guy'. It's nice to get a message from someone I love. Wish I could be there with you, I really do. Hopefully I'll be by your side, commanding the batch alongside you! Hope it finds you well.

Yours,

Tim

[nxfelibatae]

pose || jimin x reader

When the opportunity presented itself there was no way you were going to let it go, only 10 days to make a boy fall in love, It must have been easy, but you let yourself be carried away by your feelings, and nobody should risk their heart to the ones who are addicted to play with it. Love disguises itself in many ways and it hurts when you find out it was all a lie.

pairing: fuckboy! jimin x reader!

word count: 2.3K

genre: Fluff, slight angst, light smut, how to loose a guy in 10 days AU

warnings: Alcohol use, sex references, slow burn, swearing. Everybody it's kinda lying. That's pretty much it.

A / N: inspired by the movie How to loose a guy in 10 days. First work here so please be nice guys :(. It's a two people work. Edited work.

PART 1 | PART 2 | PART 3

PART 1

DAY 1

While you are walking towards Heiryung's office, your heart pounds faster with every step. This is where it ends, this is where you lose everything you care about. You wish everything would have been different, but he didn't even care, he stopped caring the moment you walked out the door. Maybe it would have worked in another life, in a different situation where your dream wasn't to be a writer or maybe if you weren't fucking liars.

DAY 12

'You always manage to surprise me girls, great job' says our boss as she places down the newest article Hyunjae and you wrote for this number's issue.

It's always like this, coming into this office to show your boss the latest results of the work you've done, she sees it, makes some simple compliments and then a new task is given. It was kinda easy, but it would be even easier if your coworkers didn't ask for favors, correcting Hyunjae's mistakes was more than enough work.

You watch how HyunJae smiles every time HeiRyung makes a complement, filling her ego way more than it already is, she wants more of it, she lives for it. Always wanting to be the center of attention.

'Great choice on the topic, I like to see that you work well together.' continued Heiryung. You hold back a laughter after that comment, Hyunjae can do anything except work as a team, always comes up with the dumbest ideas, that's how you end up doing all the work, when if you try to do something on her own, ends up stealing your ideas just to get the credit for it, never whiling to use the brain. She's used to it, used to people who do things for her.

'We do work good together, don't you think?' asks Hyunjae now looking at you with a grin in her face.

'Of course! I love when you come up with new ideas and actually take part in the writing. She's quite exceptional, don't you think Heiryung? ' your tone is sarcastic and Heiryung noticed it. HyunJae tenses after your words. Thought you where the one with the brains , you say to yourself. Heiryung's smile widened confirming your suspicions.

'It's a shame that once you graduate I won't be able to have you as part of the team' Heiryung finally spoke. She has that cocky tone in her voice, the one that says she is about to throw a bomb.

'How come?' Hyunjae is harsh in her tone. Always asking stuff like she wants to know. She thinks it makes her look interesting. You think it makes her look really desperate for attention.

'You guys have a contract for 6 months, enough time for you to do your internship and then be able to spread your wings and find “something” better' answers making a gesture of quotation marks with her fingers to emphasize the word. She knows there's nothing better, even you know there's nothing better. She smiles back like she could hear your thoughts. But it's true, you're lucky enough to be interns in one of the most respected and popular fashion magazines in Korea and the world.

'Unless…' she continues raising one of her eyebrows with a sarcastic voice.

'Unless what?…' Interrupts HyunJae.

'Unless you are down for a little friendly competition' finishes with that evil smile that hasn't been erased from her face since she thought of that idea.

'What kind of competition?' she knows she caught your attention, you're intrigued to know what's going inside her head.

'The kind where one of you ends with a job here at Pose.' your breath cuts a little. You don't know if you heard her correctly or if she's joking. 'It's easy, you just need to write an article' she says with a smirk 'An article interesting enough to be published obviously' she takes a sip of her coffee while looking at both of you with a funny expression.

'So we won't be working together?' You ask.

`Well honey, it wouldn't be a competition if you worked together, right? ' As you watched Heryung's mug slowly descend to its destination, you started to feel like you were dissociating from the real world.

This was it. This is the opportunity you have waited for since you started the internship at the magazine. This job had to be yours, you deserved it.

'I'm down' says HyunJae taking you out of your thoughts 'It would be easy, don't you think?' She asks turning her head to look at you with a fake smile. You smile at her the same way and then look away to roll your eyes, you really hated her fake personality.

Her intentions were clear as always, make you angry, it seems that she lived for it, she agreed knowing how you would feel. You know for a fact she doesn't really like working a the magazine. You've heard her complain too many times.

'It would be great to see what we can do by ourselves, right? Without being a team 'You respond to let her know that you won't be bothered by her comment so easily.

'Excellent' claps HeiRyung jumping out of her chair 'The article must be on my desk before our next meeting regarding the next number's issue'  

'The next meeting?' concern is heard in Hyunjae's question.

'That makes it 10 days from tomorrow' 'you say without believing it, that's not enough time.

'Yes, a good journalist should be able to work under pressure and with a short deadline. Besides, that's more than enough time for writing an article, plus the magazines gets printed in 11 days' she smirks, you look at Hyunjae who hasn't said anything else, is she okay with this? It didn't sound like that a moment ago, why she isn't complaining? 'Okay, so that's it, get out' Heiryung makes a gesture with her hands indicating us to leave the office as she turns her back on us.

On the way back to the cubicles, thousands of thoughts and ideas came to your mind, but none convinced you, the pressure starts to rise, your shoulders start to hurt as you feel an imaginary burden on them, this wasn't a good sign .

The rest of the day feels like you've been in automatic mode. It wasn't easy to focus on what you were supposed to do, your coworkers have had to call your name several times to get your attention, Hyunjae included. She does it one more time at the end of the shift to remind you it's time to go, thoughts absorbing your time without you even realizing it.

'What are you going to write about?' Hyunjae asks while entering the elevator.

'I still don't know, I've been thinking about it ever since we left Hieryung'a office, but I still haven't decided' you answer not really wanting to. HyunJae keeps talking, while you finally decide to check your cell phone after the whole day. Just a message from your roommate appears in the notifications.

'Why are you asking though? Are you trying to be polite this time instead if staling my notes? ' you ask after putting away the cellphone so your attention would be in Hyunjae. She tries to defend herself but you interrupt by telling her not to bother making lame excuses, she closes her mouth as fast as she opened it.

As soon as you hit the lobby, you hurry to get to the bus station as fast as you could. You still had a couple of minutes before the last bus headed and calling a cab was a luxury that you couldn't really afford at the moment with a short deadline to pay rent and the amount of money you get from the internship wasn't really enough to cover every necessity you had.

If you get the job that could change. Maybe you could move to a place near work so it could be easier for you to get there. Possibilities where infinite, just as the ideas that you get for the article, but none of them seems good enough. There's something missing in every idea and it doesn't fit your expectations.

Once you get into the bus, with a little bit of luck and the power of your legs, you feel your phone vibrate again in your purse and as you check it, you see one more message form Nayeon.

Oh no, it happened again. Another break up.

You've know Nayeon for three years now, meeting her for the first time when she was assigned to you as your dorm roommate back when you lived there. Everything about her seemed nice in the moment, that's what impulsed both of you to be friends, developing more a sisterhood than a friendship, taking you both to the idea of ​​liveing ​​together after your first semester and also because you were tired of the small space , the annoying dorm neighbors, the leaks, and the 'oh my gosh, is that a bug on your clothes?!?!'

Being friends with Nayeon was fun, and in this past three years you've been dealing with her and her breakups, happening over and over again. It's not that she wasn't a good girl, the thing is that she gets clingy and needy, making guys run away from her when she starts doing crazy things for them.

By now, you're sure you've heard every case scenario possible in Nayeon's love life when it gets to guys dumb excuses to ditch her. Dudes are garbage mostly, some of them are cool but they always sendup with 'I am not really looking for a serious relationship right now, you know?'. Your favorite so far? 'You seem like a good girl and… you know, I think I'm not what you're looking for… what you need right now too' fucking asshole…

There's only one constant in NaYeons breakups. You. And a couple liters of ice cream or beers sometimes. This time you bring home both from the pit stop you did at the convenience store before you got to the apartment, just in case it's really bad.

In the moment you cross the door and make your presence notice announcing you've arrived, she comes out of her room, with a puffy face and red eyes. When she notices your presence she runs to hug you, you stumble a little before falling into the couch.

As you place the breakup kit on the coffee table of the living room, she begins to tell you everything in detail. This time he wants to concentrate on his carrier and his studies and he can't do it while he's dating Nayeon, he can't give her all the attention she deserves because of that, and doesn't think is fair for her. This guy is really something. You can't believe it. It's a new excuse tho , you make a mental note to yourself

'But I really know why he broke up with me' she sniffed before continuing 'it's because I'm fat' and she broke in tears for the twelfth time.

'Oh my God. Nayeon, you are everything but fat, he didn't dumped you because of that or that lame excuse' You said exploding 'It was because you don't know where to stop, how many days did you date him ? '

'7 days…?' She answered while hiding behind a cushion. 'But I know he loved me, I mean he never said it, but I knew it' she continued while you looked at her intertwine hands 'the first time we had sex I was so happy and excited that I started crying'.

'Please tell me you didn't' says you, covering your face with both of your hands.  

'I also told him I loved him' You gazed at her quickly not believing what she just said.

'Are you kidding me right now?' You looked at the ceiling with frustration 'That's the kind of behaviors that makes guys run away from you Nayeon. I'm telling you this because I love you and I want you to see that boys don't hate you. You sabotage yourself and you don't even realize '

She kept on playing with her hands. This is how every breakup session would end, you trying to make her get into her senses, then a romantic movie until she falls asleep. Her situation always gots you thinking. Maybe if she had some kind of manual or a perfect recipe or even a list of “ what not to do when you date a guy ” maybe that way ...

'Oh meu deus!' You screamed scaring Nayeon 'I finally have the perfect idea for my article!' You jumped out of the couch.

'What article are you talking about?' Nayeon was really confused.

'You know how I'm doing my internship at Pose magazine? Well my boss just gave us the opportunity to be officially part of the team, there's only one place and whoever writes the best article in 10 days between HyunJae and I, it's going to get it! ' excitement is running thru you veins as you speak, Nayeon could see it your eyes, that was exactly the way you move and talk when you're passionate about something or excited.  

'That's great!' says Nayeon 'What's it going to be about? Do you have a title? '

' How to lose a guy in 10 days ' You answered looking nowhere' I would find a guy to date and I would make every mistakes women do when dating a guy. With that I can show the girls in situations similar to yours, what not to do! '

This was just perfect, the perfect topic for the article that could make you win. This could be the beginning of your career as a journalist.

'That is actually an excellent idea, this could help many girls, including me' said Nayeon with a big smile 'I hope you get that job' she comes close and embraces you in a little hug.

Now, you just needed a guy ...

And it was not going to be an easy task.

PART 2->

[wendip-week]

What if...?

Excelsior, true believers!

It’s been a while, but your old buddy ddp456 is back again to introduce this year’s theme for Wendip Week 2020!  And in a year where even the Superheroes have to stay home for the common good, what better inspiration than to tap into one of the most infamous and even sometimes strangest aspects of all of Marveldom?

Created in the late 70s, Marvel Comics’ “What If...?” series took several of the brand’s most remarkable tales and turned them on their heads with a twist, creating an entirely new alternate universe.  Such changes in canon and mythos were usually started with the phrase, “What if...”

To give a few examples:

These cult classics are kept in such high regard, that the brand is being revived as a mini-series for the Disney Plus streaming service next year. 

So, what does this comic book junk have to do with Wendip Week?  On the contrary, what better concept can there be to get the creative juices going in favor of our favorite dynamic duo. (oops...wrong company)

For the next three weeks, the Wendip Week tumblr will be accepting submissions for your best ideas for “What If...” scenarios involving Dipper and Wendy.  As in the examples given above, it would be recommended to keep things to an one-sentence line (and please watch the lengthy run-ons as well).  By keeping things simple, this will allow different takes on the same prompts without repeating ideas.

For instance:

“What if...the Pines twins never return to Gravity Falls, only for Dipper and Wendy to meet again in ten years in College?”

versus:

“What if...the Pines twins never return to Gravity Falls, only for Dipper and Wendy to meet again in College?” 

or

“What if...the Pines twins never return to Gravity Falls, only for Dipper and Wendy to meet again in ten years?”

Just by omitting a few words here and there, we are able to open the concept further instead of limiting the reunion to a ten-year difference in College.  With College, you have 2-8 years worth to choose from.  And with the broader stroke of ten years, there are millions of different ways those two can get together in the future.  Then again, there may be a reason you wish to be so precise. 

If you want, you can rewrite history, to change Gravity Falls canon for the better or worst, in ways that you alone could imagine.

My quick, off-the-head examples:

“What if...Dipper did fight with Robbie during the events of “Fight Fighters.” and Wendy saw?”

“What if...Wendy and Dipper never made up after the night of “Boyz Crazy?”

“What if...Gideon successfully captured Dipper and Wendy during Weirdmageddon and they had to escape from Bill’s dungeon?”

And like the college instance above, you can use this to create your own mythology beyond the reach of the series, novels, and comics. Will you find a way to bring Wendip together once and for all?  Of will you show us that despite time and space, their bond can remain intact?

The choice is yours, but only the votes will select the best.

Once the deadline for submissions has passed, we will create a tally where anyone can vote, but only 7 will be selected.  Of course, we will also have the usual “Pot Luck” and “Wild Card” days as in years’ past.

I wish you all good luck with your prompts, happy voting, and will look forward to seeing you all in the funny pages come July.  To clarify, we are looking at Wendip Week 2020 spanning from July 24 to August 1st.

Until then...

-ddp456

PS:  And bonus points to those that make their own mock-up covers ala the comics above.  Not really, but it’d still be awesome to see!

PSS:  Also, please welcome our new Wendip Week mod @fereality-indy​ to the staff!

[thomasheimbrand]

How to create clarity in an organization

As a leader, you have to be clear on your vision. The leader's task is to chart the course of the company. All that often, top management is communicating the overall business targets but lacks knowledge of how to get there.

Leadership is about people, not numbers. If you have the people with you, the numbers will come.

When you focus too much on the numbers, you usually forget about the people.  Engagement will bee low, and the result won't come, no matter how clear you are on your expectations. Another consequence is that the middle managers will have a hard time coping with their boundaries regarding goals, budget, knowledge, supply, staffing, etc. The outcome is therefore going to be poor.

More measuring and follow-up won't increase the performance of the company. A manager measures the company's temperature, but it is the leaders who are the thermostats and create better performance and results.

Another negative symptom of "micromanaging" and task generation is that employees start to lose respect for deadlines. Specific essential tasks will be delayed or forgotten.

Medicine for a turnaround

The first thing you need to do in this situation is to look at every management team in the company and see if the right person leads the right group of people. For instance, a great manager can be a perfect match for an inexperienced team who needs many directions and orders. The same manager can be a disaster for a more mature group that instead needs coaching and inspiration.

That is why you always benefit from developing your leaders and their leadership skills. The reason is that better leaders adapt their leadership skills to the group of people they are leading.

We also know what happens to the engagement and performance of a team that a lousy leader leads.

Clarify the priorities.

The next step is to clarify every department's expectations according to the expectations from the management system. Ensure that every leader understands their task and sees that they have the right resources for the job.

If not, make sure to address the most important bottlenecks within the company. Listen to the most experienced people to get the feeling of where 80 % of the result is being generated.

Be the change you want to see

If you are the company leader, you have to be the change you want to see. People do what people see. If you want people to step forward and be accountable, you have to give them trust. If you instead continue to "Micromanage," people will continue to do as they are told, in fear of getting a reprimand for doing something wrong. They will also not give trust to their subordinates.

That is why you don't get the people how you want; you get the people who you are.

It is like your children growing up. The older they get, the more responsibility and trust you have to give them. Believe in them and let them know that you are there for them if they need you.

Of course, you have given them the proper boundaries in life, such as knowing right from wrong and that they are loved and what they believe they can achieve, and all of that. What you can't give them, however, is their own evaluated experiences.

It is the same with the people in a company. The better your employees become, the more you have to trust them and foster a learning culture.

Failing forward is the best way to skyrocket your business.

Focus on success

Focus and celebrate success. If you want more success, you have to focus on it. The question "What went well and why?" is one of my favorites.

Elaborating on the reasons for success are of the best ways of increasing performance in a company. It is like giving the company a gift that keeps on giving.

Everyone wants to be a part of a winning team. The picture of ourselves becomes our reality. Top management must balance fault-finding with celebration and highlight the company's positive aspects.

My experience is that people listen more to improvement suggestions after being recognized and appreciated first.

It ties back to the saying, "People don't care how much you know (about the answer) until they know how much you care. That is regardless if you are right or not.

Foster a culture of belonging

Another way of organically improve the behaviors in the company is to foster a positive feedback culture. As the leader, you shall praise the people that praise others. In that way, you communicate that everyone is essential and that we need each other to succeed.

When everyone feels that they are important and belong to the team, they will always try to be the best in their work line regardless of their rank or education degree.

So if you want a learning and growing company, you should always communicate that everyone is essential and is needed to get the job done.  

Focus on leadership development

The best investment you can make for your company is to develop your leaders. The leaders will then form the people who create the result.

Engagement will be higher, turnover lower, and the overall result will skyrocket.

When your people are growing, your company will grow as well. Recruiting won't be a problem either, since you will attract better.

You don't attract the people you want; you attract who you are.

Your company will become a magnet for gratefully skilled leaders.

Launch a rotation program for managers

Everyone wants to belong to something. Not belonging is one of our primal fears. That is why we often dress the same, buy the same cars, travel to the same places, talk the same, etc. All of this seeks recognition from one other to ensure that we belong to the same "tribe."

That is why you see that people dress the same as the leader, and by the leader, I don't necessarily mean the person in charge.

We tend to be drawn to people that look and behave the same as we do. Dialects are formed this way. Therefore, it is easy to create a sense of "we" and "them" in all of this. The unknown is something terrible and that you have to be careful about.

In an organization, you can measure the degree of inclusion of the way people talk. Do they speak in terms of "we" or "they?"

"If only they had done their work correctly, we wouldn't have been in this mess!"

My response when people say this is: "Perhaps you are correct, but what could we have done that would have helped them to succeed?

Often the causes of "we" and "them"- thinking result from simply not having the chance to get to know each other. The best Aha-moments are those when people rotate to a different department and get to know their areas for improvement, and that person rotating saying:

"I didn't know that these were your bottlenecks. However, we could help you with these from our department."

So, as the company leader, you can facilitate leaders rotate to other departments regularly.

Trust is the foundation of leadership.

Your trustworthiness as a leader will determine your ability to create the result. When people trust you, they are going to follow you. You have shown in words and deeds that you care for them and value them.

People feel that their voice matter and that someone has listened. They know where the company is going and how they can contribute. The reasons behind the decisions are clarified, and people have been able to participate in the decision-making process.

Listening to the people is sometimes the most challenging part for leaders with only micromanaging skills. To gain power, you have to give power away, which is extremely hard for a micromanager.

With higher trust, job satisfaction will increase together with higher engagement and commitment. Collaboration with others will also be better because your trustworthiness will spread throughout the organization.

Trust story

A principal at a school gathered three teachers to a meeting at his office. He told them that they were the best teachers the school had to offer. He explained that he would provide these teachers with the best students in the school for the coming year to see how far they could go in terms of achievements.

After one year, he gathered the teachers again and explained that their results had been terrific. Their students had outperformed the others by more than 20 %.

The teachers were pleased to hear this. However, at the end of the conversation, the principal said he hadn't been fair with them. He explained that the students were not the best initially, and he explained that the teachers were neither the best.

The principal selected both the students and the teachers from a list randomly. The result came from how they saw themselves, and the principal's trust made them act as if they were the best in the school.

-The way you see yourself will create a feeling that determines your actions. The generated result then confirms the way you see yourself.

Use these valuable tips to create clarity in your organization to improve the overall result. Become a leader and chart the course using a trust, building leaders and focus on success. Cast a vision of a high-achieving company where everyone cares for each other and stimulates continuous improvement.

I wish you the best of luck.

If you want to read more about how to develop your leadership skills, visit my site here.

Your friend Thomas!

[blurry-fics]

Chapter Twelve

Where Did We Go | Series Masterlist

Warnings: Angst, angry!Tyler

Word Count: 2049

Author’s Note: Happy Valentine’s Day! I hope you enjoy this chapter today :) (picture credit)

I idly drew doodles in the margins of my notepad as the team droned on about some matter that didn’t really concern me. My head was so heavy on my hand that I knew it would leave a mark when I finally pulled away, but I didn’t care. Next to me, Josh actually seemed to be paying attention, but he was still drumming his fingers on the table. I liked the beat.

Another song lyric floated through my brain, so I quickly wrote it down beneath the others before it got away from me. Lately, it felt like the only thing these meetings were good for was coming up with fragments of song lyrics and making my throat sore. Nothing else productive ever seemed to get done.

“We got the visuals back from the artists. I have some stills here, but you should all be receiving an email tonight with the full videos for review.”

Now this actually seemed interesting. I scribbled down the words “visual review” in the corner of my page, ripped it off, and stuck it into my pocket. Nobody seemed to notice.

“We think that the visuals are adequate, but not exactly as we intended.”

We?

“And as a result, we’re thinking about cutting the payment of the artists. This will also save us some room in the budget to put elsewhere.”

I leaned forward in my chair. People’s eyes immediately went to me, anticipating what I was about to say.

“Cutting the artist’s pay? How do we know if their work is ‘adequate’ or not if my team hasn’t even had a chance to do a full review?”

“Well our artistic board-”

“Exactly, your artistic board. Last time I checked, your artistic board isn’t the one putting on a show,” I said. “And no matter how we feel about the visuals, the artists did the work and deserve full payment for their time and effort.”

“But they didn’t deliver-”

“They did. The visuals were done to the best of their ability and provided by the deadline that we gave them. We’re giving them full payment and my team can decide whether the work is satisfactory or not.”

“I’m sorry, Mr. Joseph, but then we’re going to have to raise ticket prices to make up for the losses.”

“What is all this crap about raising ticket prices?” My voice was getting louder now. “We gave you the budget months ago! Everything was laid out with enough money to cover all costs and keep ticket prices exactly where we wanted them, but your company decided to put things off until it didn’t work anymore.” Josh reached out and put a hand on my back. My shoulders relaxed, but my voice remained raised. “Our fans are not in charge of paying the price for your poor choices. That art looks fantastic and, if I’m being honest, the only people here that aren’t delivering satisfactory work is you.”

I stood up then, sending my chair flying out behind me. Josh’s hand fell away from my back. I turned on my heel and headed for the door, still fuming.

“Where are you going?” someone asked. I couldn’t place the voice.

“I’m taking a break. I’ll be back in ten.”

I walked down the hallway, unsure of where I was going, until I found a sign marked with the stairs. My hands were curled into fists at my side until my nails were digging into my palms. It had been a long time since I was this angry, but the stupidity of the company we had chosen to put on this tour was sending me over the edge. Tour was only a week and a half away and it still felt like we had more loose ends than we did answers.

Most of all, I hated that this was what I was missing out on time with my family for.

I pulled my phone out of my pocket and immediately dialed Y/N’s number. She would know what to say to get me calm again before I walked back into that conference room. My leg bounced as the phone rang, alleviating only a small portion of the emotions I was feeling. They were quickly getting overwhelming.

“Tyler?” she answered. Just that simple word was enough to release some of the tension in my shoulders.

“Hi, love.”

“What’s going on? Aren’t you supposed to be in a meeting right now?”

I pinched the bridge of my nose, “Yes, but it’s not going well. I just blew up on the company representative.”

“Oh no,” she sighed. “What are they trying to get you to do today?”

“Raise ticket prices again! It doesn’t matter how many times I tell them I don’t want to do that, they won’t let it go.”

“Ty, hey, it’s ok. At the end of the day, you still have the power in this situation.”

“I know, I’m sorry.”

“Is there somewhere else that you can cut costs a little bit? Weren’t you talking about maybe switching out some of the fancier effects for something a little simpler?”

“Yeah, there’s definitely places that we could do it, they just don’t like to listen to those ideas as much. It’s hard to convince them that it would actually help the budget.”

“I know, but it’s worth a shot. It’s like I’ve been saying, you and Josh just need to team up and get your ideas in there. Plus, you have Mark to back you up too. The power is there.”

“I’ll talk to them before the next meeting and really get things solid. I hate to ignore the progress that we are making, but the problems just feel so much bigger right now.”

“You’re going to get this worked out, Ty. I know you will. Think of how much you’ve been through to get here. Even if, at the end of the day, things don’t work out exactly how you want them to, you know people will be happy as long as you’re there singing the songs with them. You were popular even before you had the big productions.”

I sighed. “You’re right. I’ll try to keep that in mind. I just get so wrapped up in this vision that Josh and I created that I forget it’s the music that really matters. Thank you.”

“Of course. I know the show is going to be great no matter what you end up doing.”

“You always know the right thing to say,” I smiled.

“It’s a talent of mine,” she laughed.

“I just wish that I wasn’t stuck at this stupid meeting today.”

“It’s ok, Ty,” she said, but I could tell that her tone had changed. “You’re doing important band stuff. We’ll have a break soon enough.”

“I hope so.”

Our conversation was interrupted by the door to the stairs swinging open. Josh’s head poked through the door, quickly scanning the area. Relief came over his face as soon as he saw me.

“There you are. We need you back in the conference room. Things are happening.”

“Ok, let me finish this up and then I’ll be there.”

Josh nodded and disappeared again, letting the door swing shut behind him. I waited for it to fully close before I started talking to Y/N again.

“Sorry about that. Josh showed up.”

“I heard.”

“Anyway, I guess they need me back there.”

“Time to let you go?”

“Yeah.”

“Alright. I love you, and don’t let them get to you, ok, Ty? I know you can find a way to put on the show you’ve been dreaming about.”

“Thank you, Y/N. I love you too.”

“Bye.”

“Wait.”

“Yeah?”

“Did you remember that I’m going over to my parents’ tonight for dinner?”

“I remember now,” she laughed. It sounded forced.

“Ok.”

“Good luck, Ty.”

“Thanks.”

“Bye.”

“Bye.”

I ended the call, now feeling a different sort of discomfort in my chest. It took me a moment to finally get off the steps and walk out the door back towards the conference room. My mind was running its endless loop of questions, but no matter where I looked, I came up with no answers. It felt like a weight in my head, dragging me further and further down.

I hadn’t felt that way in a long time.

*     *     *

The meeting finally ended around four that night. There was another one scheduled for the next day - which the company claimed would be the last additional meeting we had to schedule - although after today’s events, I was feeling hopeful. They were finally starting to listen to the ideas that Josh and I had, helped along by the fact that Y/N had given me a new sense of confidence about the show. After a few more emails and phone calls, I was sure that things would finally start coming together.

My mom was the one to open the door when I knocked. She immediately pulled me into a hug, squeezing me tight enough that I nearly coughed. I didn’t blame her, I had only been able to find enough time to see my family once since I had gotten home from tour a week and a half ago, and most of my siblings hadn’t even been around. This time had been a little more planned so that Zack and Maddy would be able to stop by too.

“I’ve missed you so much,” my mom said, pressing a kiss to the top of my head.

“I’ve missed you too, Mom.”

I went around and hugged each of my siblings and my dad. It was nice to have everyone together again for a family dinner. The last time we had a get together like this was before the Australian leg of the tour nearly a month and a half ago.

“Dinner is already ready, if you guys want to eat. I made it early since I figured you would be hungry after your meeting, Tyler.”

“Thanks,” I smiled.

Everyone stayed pretty quiet, aside from small talk, as we dished up our food. I was sure that my family was full of questions to ask me, but they knew better than to try and ask before I was settled at the table. Right now, my mind was on food and food only.

We eventually all sat down at the table in the places that we had been assigned since childhood. Once everyone was comfortable and had taken a couple bites of food, the questions slowly began to come out.

“How was your meeting today, Tyler?” my dad asked.

“It was alright. I kind of blew up on the representative today-”

“Tyler,” my mom chimed in. Zack barely concealed a laugh.

“Mom, listen, it’s only because they keep trying to make us raise ticket prices even though we’ve had the budget planned out for weeks. It didn’t matter how many times I told them that wasn’t going to happen, they kept insisting.”

My mom kept a disappointed look on her face, but deep down I could tell that she knew I was right. From day one, she had always made sure that I knew staying true to myself was vital as I continued to pursue music. That advice had stuck with me since.

“Are they starting to listen though?” Maddy asked. “I mean, there’s only like a week and a half until tour starts, right?”

“Yeah, they’re finally coming around. Josh and I have been fighting with them pretty much all week, though. They’re bringing us in for another meeting tomorrow.”

“Another one?” Jay asked.

“They flew Josh in?” Zack chimed in right after.

“Yes and yes. That’s how big of a problem all of this is.”

“Geez,” my dad said. “That sounds intense.”

“It is. I’m barely hanging on by a thread here.”

My mom reached over and reassuringly rubbed my shoulder. “You’re safe here, Tyler. We’re not going to let you fall.”

I quickly glanced around the table to see that the rest of my family was nodding along with my mom. Warmth spread throughout my chest at knowing that they still had my back, even if I couldn’t always make as much time as I wanted to for them. At the end of the day, they were still my family.

We’re not going to let you fall.

*     *     *     *     *

Taglist

@tylersheavydirtysoul @faceofcontvsions @ohprettyweeper @shaytwentyonep @tyler-josephs-floof @angelicopioid​ @topownsmyheart @harishaanne @addictwithaheavydirtycheetah @somethingboutyou1 @boiled-onionrings @heythereitm3 @gaysludge @breadbinishigh​ @5secondsofmoxley​ @patdsinner33​ @littlerachelbee​ @royal-avengers​

[alaina-achilles]

ii

challenge one

((sorry for the kinda short fic haha, I’m getting crazy busy with assignment deadlines smh. anyways thanks for the nice rp anna @arin-schreave. and love our rps as usual ana!! @itssara-oc @itzelbm-oc ))

The etiquette lesson was… uneventful. And I certainly was not ready to be thrown on so much information so early in the morning. Especially with an empty stomach. Luckily I’ve got that covered and ate a packet of oreos in my room before going out. And I’m also lucky I know most of the basics thanks to the gatherings my sisters and I are often forced to attend. My maids were really nice and they did my hair nicely and I opted for a simple and formal dress for the interview.

The interview.

I sigh as I think about it. To be honest, I’m quite… nervous. I've had many interviews in my life before and my mom has certainly prepared me well for each and every one of them. It’s not the cameras that worry me - I’ve had a few interviews with them before on my book and career… It’s the prince. I’m so used to knowing the interviewee well (by doing my research, of course) that I often know just what to say to please them and make them like me. But I know none of that about the prince.

I sigh and bite my lip and turn around to walk to the food when I see the girl I was hoping to see for the entire morning.

“Hey!” I say as a way of greeting. My friend looks up, sees me and immediately smiles.

“Achi!” I smile at the sound of my new nickname. Sara quickly pulls me into a hug. “that quick etiquette class was something…” she lowers her voice. “I'm sure I wasn't the only one who can feel the tense atmosphere.”

“I know what you mean... I’m glad I already know the basics... how are we supposed to learn all of that in one go” I agree with her, shaking my head as I feel sorry for those who have never learnt any of that before. We talk more about the class and decide to start piling food onto my plate. I hope nobody heard my stomach growl.

“You know I'm so tempted to ask to switch seats but I know it probably won't be the best idea.” Sara says as we groan about how far each other are.

I giggle at the thought of Sara asking another girl to switch seats. “yeah, i guess it’ll be a good chance for us to meet new people…” I frown as I stress about how I haven’t actually met anyone else yet. “Have you met any other girls yet?”

Sara chuckles. “I guess you can say that.” She cocks her head to the side and sighs “I've said a few words to some of them but I'm not sure anyone clicked with me like you. How about you?”

I smile at her words. “yeahh I havent really too…” I say with a shake of my head as I think of how I spent the whole night talking to my sisters instead of socializing. I turn to the drink selection and widen my eyes in awe. “I never knew there are SO many types of milk!”

“Ah milk something I wish I could drink but I'm lactose in tolerant” Sara replies with a giggle. “Anyway look at all the food. I'm just hoping to enjoy my time here!” She smiles, but for some reason, it doesn’t reach her eyes. “I don't feel like I'll last one. First of all the prince isn't in my opinion really aware that this is a selection, he has 35 girls hoping to ask for his hand in marriage. Second of all, as someone who was once thinking of marrying the so called love of my life I know he's not completely over his ex, and third there is going to be a lot of drama.”

I cock my head to the side as I think about her words, not expecting that. “Yeah I know what you mean... The prince doesn't seem happy at all.” I sigh. “I honestly don't know what to do with the interview later... hopefully he’ll find someone he can love and be happy about”

She shrugs in response. “I don't know how I'll introduce myself. I could smile and lie or tell him what I really think.” She bites her lip. “I really do hope he finds someone among these girls to make him happy. Or at least someone who would even remotely fall in love with him despite possibly being a rebound. Anyway, do you know who's gonna be at your table? Anyone you wanna be friends with?”

I nod at her words. “That’s true... I think I’d give him one chance, the interview, to see who he really is…” I say with a smile. Sometimes I forget that this selection goes both ways too. I’m not the only one who has to be liked by the prince. “I’m not sure but I think Itzel’s on my table... I haven't met her yet but she was sitting near me during the etiquette class so yeah. You?”

“I wish I could but I myself am in a similar situation as him. And I feel awful I took a place of someone who would have tried harder. Or at least wanted this. Anyways, I'll be cheering for you!!” She says with a smile. “What kind of vibes does she give? She seems cold and intimidating to me. Jen and Andromeda, and a couple more. They seems nice. I just hope I'll be able to make small talk.”

I thank her with a smile. “And I hope you also find the one you love and loves you back... “ I pause as I think about her question. “Itzel... I don’t know, she seems like a bit cool and we didn't say much just now. Hopefully some good food will cheer her up!”

We continue chatting about Itzel and other stuff as we continue to fill our plate. We finally decide to finish our conversation to go and enjoy our food after a short while. I tell her good luck with finding new friends.

She nods and gives me thumbs up. “I will try my best, Achi.” For some reason, I feel like she’s acting a bit off, but I brush it off as nerves from the interview. But as we walk away, I turn back around and mouth “thanks bun” to which she smiles in response. I sigh and look at my plate of food happily as I walk back to my table.

“Hi, Itzel, right?” I say to the girl near me.

She smiles politely, nodding in acknowledgement. “Hello and you are correct, I am Itzel.” She hums in thought as she looks at me. “I am trying hard to remember names and faces, I am bad at this so I am sorry for not quite knowing. I believe your name starts with an A, right?”

I brighten up at her guess. “Yup!! I’m Alaina!” I look at my plate. “How’s the food?” Food is always a good topic to start off.

She chuckles. “Well, it's a pleasure to meet you Alaina. It is delicious. There's quite a few things that are new to me so I'm very happy right now.. You'll enjoy the food very much. Are you excited to meet the Prince after this?”

I smile at her reply and take a bite of my food and widen my eyes. “this IS good!!” I laugh. “ I am! And also quite nervous”

We continue to talk more and I learn that Itzel is into neuroscience.

“Wow neurology and neuroscience... I did a few psychology courses in uni and I struggled so badly with the neuro stuff.” I tell her truthfully with a laugh. “You are one brave girl for wanting to do that.”

Itzel turns out to be super nice as we get to know each other. She also helped calm my nerves as we finished our lovely breakfast. I make a mental note to tell Sara about it.

“Anyway, let your other friend know I'm not THAT bad. I could see her shake every time she looked at me.” Itzel tells me as we stand up, seeming to have read my mind.  

“I definitely will!! And good luck on your interview with the prince!” I tell her with a laugh. She smiles and wishes the same to me and soon we are ushered into a waiting room. I look around to find Sara, but can’t see her as I scan the room a few times. I shake my head, she’s probably touching up in the bathroom. I sigh and before I can even choose a new girl to talk to, I’m called into the room.

I take a deep breath and hold my head high like Mom always tells us to as I step into the room filled with cameras. I smile at the cameras and try to keep my walking natural and elegant.

You can do this.

And if all goes wrong, blame your sister. She caused all of this anyways.

I hide my smile at the silly thought and turn my focus to the gorgeous guy that is the prince. While I may not know the prince well, one thing I know for sure. He is definitely good-looking. Despite the lack of a er genuine smile. He must not have been taught acting in his education. I think with a giggle as I keep my smile intact. I don’t miss him looking at my name tag. And I guess, he also didn’t take the time to learn our names.

“Good morning, Lady Alaina, please have a seat.” He says formally, motioning to the sofa.

“Good morning, your highness.” I say with a smile before pausing in slight anxiety. Do I curtsy or…? I decide to quickly bob into one before sitting down hastily. I can instantly hear my mom’s voice in my head.

Be professional, Alaina. Stop with the fidgeting nonsense. You’re a lady, Alaina. And don’t ever drop that smile. You know that’s one of your best physical traits.

Prince Arin sits down next to me gracefully and angles his body towards me. “How are you doing this morning?”

A simple and straight-forward question.

I place my hand on my lap as my mom has taught me to since I was a little kid. “I’m good. I met some of the other girls and that was quite interesting-” I answer. “And also what you’ve been doing the whole morning.” I add with a laugh. “How’s yours?”

He nods at me. “It’s going well, thank you. Did you sleep well?” I vaguely remember some random guy saying their morning had been bad but now that they’ve met me, theirs is perfect. I almost laugh at the memory.

Focus, Alaina.

“I didn't sleep for very long as I was busy talking to my sisters.” I tell him truthfully as I smile fondly at the thought of my sisters. “But the sleep is good, the bed is really comfy!”

He nods. “I’m glad you were able to speak with them. Big changes can be difficult.” His eyes go to the cameras then back to me. I wonder what is he thinking. Does he wish for them to be gone like I do? I wonder if he is different when away from the cameras. I catch myself almost frowning at the thought but quickly smooths my face back to the perfect smile. “Which province are you from?”

“Atlin.” Then I decide to try to make him smile. My friends laugh a lot at this alliteration. “Alaina Achilles of Atlin.”

He does not smile. “And what do you do in Atlin?” I almost frown again as I realize how factual his questions are. All of them should be written in my profile or something…

Maybe it’s all just for the cameras.

“I just got my degree and was in the process of finding a job. I ended up deciding to give writer another try.”

He nods again. “What kind of writing do you do?”

“Fiction…” I look a bit embarrassed as I think about my published book that I’m not very proud of. It was definitely not my best work. I sigh and lower my voice so that only he can hear. “Okay fine, y’all prolly have had people stalked us thoroughly so no point in hiding this... “ I say then louder “I wrote and published a book a few years ago.”

He does not just nod at this! “Oh.” He pauses as his head bobs. “What kind of book? I didn’t read your files so I’m not up to speed on your accomplishments.”

Guess the questions aren’t just for the cameras then.

I almost scoff at his choice of words. “Accomplishments” make this really sound like a job interview. Perhaps it is, in a way. So instead I act surprised and look down as I realize I have to tell him about my book in front of cameras. Not like the media doesn’t know about this already. “it’s a um teen romance…”

“I haven’t read any books from that genre but I’m sure it must be wonderful. Being published is an accomplishment.”

Accomplishment.

“It’s not... it’s a cheesy book written by a sixteen year old…” I peeks at him through my eyelashes. “I’m sure you’re gonna laugh if u ever came across it.”

And for the first time, he actually shakes his head instead of nodding it. “I tend to stick to non fiction so I think you’re safe.” He finishes with a weird expression that looks suspiciously like a ghost of a smile. I soften as I realize how much this is bugging him as it’s bugging me and decide to laugh it off to ease the tension.

“Well it’s actually called “the bad boy ruined my project” so I’m not really worried. Do you like reading?”

“I do, if I can find the time. Your book sounds like something my sister would enjoy.” He looks a teeny bit more relaxed as we talk about something less er formal.

I nod. “Well, then I’ll recommend it to her when I see her. Any favorite genres?”

“I’ll read mostly anything.” I almost roll my eyes at his answer that tells me nothing about him. He glances over at his watch then looks back to me. “Thank you for speaking with me this morning, Lady Alaina, it’s been a pleasure.” He says as he stands up.  “I hope you enjoy the rest of your stay.”

I instantly nod and stand up as well, relieved that this is finally over. “Thank you for your time, your highness. The pleasure’s mine.” I tell him with a smile as I awkwardly bob another curtsy. “You too.” I say as he just looks at me without any expression at all. I hold back a sigh and smile at the cameras again and give them a little wave as I walk back out of the room.

I take a deep breath the moment I step out of my room. I really need to talk to someone. That interview was… nothing that I ever had before. I think about going back into the waiting room, but I really am not in the mood of making small talk with other girls. So I decide to go back into my room. Since I’m one of the first few girls to have finished the interview, the halls should be nice and quiet.

As I walk up the stairs to my room, I hear a bit of hushing and then a closing of a door followed by the sound of the door locking. I ignore the sound as I walk past the first two rooms to my room. As I walk past Sara’s room. I pause. There seems to be someone else in the room with her… But I know for sure, she isn’t due to have her interview until later…

I shake my head and decide she has probably met a new friend. Despite myself, I can’t help but feel a bit sad. Even Sara’s making new friends, probably someone she enjoys the company of over me since I haven’t been to her room before. What am I doing here? I ask myself as I walk into my own room and unzip my dress.

Not bothering to pull my dress off, I reach for my phone and call my sisters.

[jtrbluv]

perfect harmony | jjk

pairing: jungkook x reader (again oml)

genre: fluff, implied smut ahadhjndkd

warnings: implication of sex

word count: 2.4k

summary: one-night-stand. which according to the trusty urban dictionary means, “hooking up with someone for one night of sex with no strings attached and hoping to never see them again.” you and partner of choice for the night, Jeon Jungkook, have had a handful of one-night-stands. why did this one stand out much more than the rest? college!au

A/N: i didn’t intend on writing another jungkook fic but i had gotten this request and shoot this was for sure a challenge to write hahaha. this is definitely the closest i will get to a ‘smut’. tbh i’m not really satisfied with this but like i’m never satisfied lmao. anyways, enjoy! thank you so much for this request anon!

47) “I thought it was a one-night-stand... and now we’re married.”

♫ ♫ ♫

It’s a rather cliche story. Jungkook was the handsome, seemingly perfect music major that girls of all ages would coo and awe over. You, on the other hand, majored in music as well, and happen to run into the young fellow every day. The two of you were both known to be very well-rounded and talented students, being at the top of the class and both exceeding in the same field. The odds always seemed to be in your favor as you two had never been paired up for any assignments or projects.

While the two of you were at the top of the class, you both had usually gotten paired up with students on the other side of the spectrum that happened to be struggling and failing. You, in particular, had grown accustomed to that, and you had hoped it never changed.

College parties and college boys had led you to have your own fair share of sexual experiences. Most of them being absolutely platonic and lasting for a single night, also known as, a one-night-stand. It happens, and along with Jungkook having the reputation of a seemingly perfect music major with the good grades and teachers following his beck and call, there was another side of him that everyone was aware of as well. That Jungkook with the chiseled body and the washboard abs, known to be good in bed, and also known to be a player. In regards to that information, you avoided him as much as you possibly could outside of school premises. You didn’t want to be the next person on his smash list.

“Miss Y/L/N and Mister Jeon, may I please speak to the two of you at the end of class?” your teacher Mrs. Lam questions the two of you one day as the hem of her skirt brushes along the side of your desk.

You turn around as Jungkook exchange confused stares before looking back at your teacher as you suddenly respond to clear the silence, “Yeah, of course.” She nods in agreement as she travels back to her desk. Your brows furrow in confusion, trying to think of what she was possibly going to talk to you two about. Jungkook taps you on the shoulder as you lean back in your seat to hear what he has to say, “Do you think we did something wrong?” he asks you. You pause for a moment, but not being able to think of any sort of time in this class where you two could’ve possibly caused any trouble. You two have always done the complete opposite in retrospect. You whisper back to him, “Not that I know of. Can you think of anything?” He scrunches his face, trying to possibly recall anything, “Nope, nothing.” You try to think of something, anything,

“I mean, we’re all doing our final projects, but it’s all individual, so it can’t be that,” you suggest.

“Yeah, it can’t be,” he replied. The final project was to compose your own song and it would count for 15% of our grade. Ms. Lam had made it an individual final to the dismay of many students who wished to get the guidance and help from the two of you.

“I guess we’ll just have to find out.”

“Yeah, well, it’s most likely not something bad, if it wasn’t for us, half the class would be failing.”

“You’re right.” you chuckle, turning back to face the front of the classroom.

Twenty-minutes quickly went by as the bell rang and signaled the end of class. Music happened to be your last period which is why she had the time to talk to the two of you. You packed up your belongings as you and Jungkook stood up from your seats. You looked back at him as you nodded at one another and walked up to the front of the classroom.

Ms. Lam looked up from her desk, “Oh, hello. You two aren’t in trouble of any sort, I was just wondering if you were willing to do something extra for the class. You see, the rest of the music department teachers and I are picking the top two students for each class to compose a song together,” she began to clarify.

Together? Oh god.

“It won’t count for your grade at all though. It’s just for us music teachers to see the true potential our top students hold.”

I mean, that’s sort of a relief.

“It also is optional of course too, but almost all the classes are deciding to participate.”

Well, that doesn’t mean we have to.

“After all, the winning duo does win $500,”

WHAT? $500?!

“I know for a fact that if I had an opportunity like this in college, I would snatch it.” she finishes off with a smug smile.

“I’ll do it.” Jungkook quickly replies, looking back at you, waiting for a response. You couldn’t just say no, and you weren’t going to. This is $500 we’re talking about, and you were going to win it.

“Me too,” you hesitantly answer back, a smile spreading onto your teacher’s face.

“The deadline is in exactly 3 weeks! I wish the best of luck to both of you. I believe that you two have a very good chance of winning.” your teacher finishes, as you two exchange ‘thanks’ and head out.

“So, when do you wanna start?” Jungkook asks, looking back at you as he shoved his hands into his pockets.

“I’m basically free whenever. Just text me, and we can figure out times.”

“Will do. We can work at my place if you want, my roommate is usually out until really late, but I’ll let you know,” he suggests.

“Alright, that’s cool, I’ll see you around then.”

“Okay, see you around Y/N.” he responded with his signature smile, heading the opposite direction. This was going to be interesting.

-

The next 3 weeks had gone by extremely quickly. Almost like a blur. Most of your nights were spent in Jungkook’s dorm; exchanging ideas, making beats, writing lyrics, and recording. You two would frequently sneak out just to get some food, and to be honest, you had both gotten comfortable with another fairly quickly. So quickly, it scared you.

There were several nights that you had accidentally fallen asleep in his dorm, and instead of waking you up and having him feel your wrath, he would carry you to his own bed and tuck you in while he slept on the floor. You felt really bad every time it happened, but you seriously couldn’t help it sometimes. You’d wake up to a set of his clothes to wear and walk out to see him stumbling around in the kitchen, hair ruffled and sticking out everywhere, attempting to make you breakfast. It had soon started to become one of the best things you could possibly wake up to in the morning.

You undeniably began to see him in a different light and wanting to be much more than just project partners, but you tried to put those feelings aside. You thought of him differently, and he wasn’t just what everyone thought he was. He was so much more. He was a sucker for love songs. He liked spending most of his free time playing video games and composing songs on his own. He even let you into his private folder of songs that he’s never let anyone listen to and all you can say is, wow. They were all so amazing, it left you speechless every time you listened to some of his works. His compositions were just so timeless and reminded you of all the R&B songs you know and love. His voice. It’s almost as if you’re put in a trance every time you hear him sing. His voice held so much emotion and control, it’s almost as if he truly meant those lyrics and was singing it to someone, and you wished that someone could be you.

You truly did hate the fact that you were falling for the boy. Almost every girl in school has fallen for him, and you didn’t want to be next up on his list. You didn’t really know what to think at this point, he didn’t really seem like that type of person the more you got to know him, and when you truly thought about it, you’re not that innocent either, and sometimes resorting to sex is what you did to take your mind off of things. It is college anyway.

-

You two had met up for your final day before the due date, making minor tweaks and going over everything. Not to be biased, but you really did think that the song you two made was pretty good. You loved the beat and its harmony and you and Jungkook did a pretty good job of displaying the emotions of the song. Bonus points for your voices blending very well together.

It was 1:30 in the morning and you two had finally agreed that you were done,

“Let’s listen to our Grammy Award-Winning single shall we?” Jungkook teased in a voice mimicking a host of an award show.

“Yes, you dumbass.” you chuckled, shaking your head as he gave you one side of his headphones.

You both sat in silence for 4 minutes, assessing the song and basking in the creation that you two made together. Everything worked out just the way you two wanted, and both artistic flavors were shown in the song itself. The song was amazing, and so was his voice, as always.

The song ended as Jungkook slowly put the headphones down before slowly looking back at you. You looked back at him and into his eyes, you hated the fact that you were falling for him and falling for him fast, but how could you not. Everything about him was just so ethereal and beautiful, to the way his eyes glimmered to the way he smiled.

You two sat side by side, staring into each other’s eyes not knowing what to say. You couldn’t take it anymore so you broke the stare, a deep flush of pink rushing to your cheeks. He gently takes your chin and turns your face to meet his once again. Your breath hitches and your eyes go wide at his actions as he starts to lean in. You could see all his features at this point. You had gotten so close that you could probably even count his eyelashes too. You close your eyes lean in as well as your lips meet. The lavender scent of his cologne was dizzying as well as his cherry-flavored lip balm. His lips were soft and pillow-like as they gently massaged your own. The kiss had started off slow but had soon escalated as you both crashed against his sheets and the rhythm of your kisses had started to become faster and faster. Parted lips had allowed access for tongue as he soon started to travel and explore the rest of your body that would later on leave visible marks the next day. Your bodies were pressed against another as you both fumbled with each other’s clothes, quickly throwing them off to the side. You both relished in the indescribable sensation that was each other. The rest of the night was filled with roaming hands and dancing fingers, gentle touches and rough ones too, lustful eyes and moans of pleasure. It was everything you both wanted and needed and more. Fuck, what did you just get yourself into?

You wake up to the sight of his muscular chest in front of your face, reminding you of the chain of events that had occurred the previous night. A twinge of guilt as well as regret rose within you for what you were about to do. Never speak a word to Jungkook again. If you win, you split the money and part ways, and if you don’t, even better. His arms were wrapped tightly around you in a warm embrace, his hair messily hanging in front of his eyes while his lips were slightly parted open. You blindly grab your phone on his nightstand and check the time, it was 4:45 in the morning. More than enough time to slip away and go back to your dorm unnoticed, he was a heavy sleeper anyway. You figured it was better to try to dismiss your feelings for the boy and make an attempt to go on with your life. College was coming to an end and you figured you didn’t want to spend your last weeks drowning in the seas of unrequited love. You’ve had enough of it.

You slowly and carefully try to slip out of his tight hold, resulting in a tiny whimper on his part. Your eyes widen until you see him begin to fall back into his deep slumber. You quietly put your sweats back on, rubbing your eyes in an attempt to actually see. You shove your phone back into your pocket and look back at the sleeping boy. He really was so beautiful and you know a part of yourself would hate the fact that you’re doing this. You step closer to the bed as you lean down towards him, holding your hair back, placing a chaste kiss on his cheek. You took a big, deep sigh, beginning to take in what you were about to do. Goodbye, Jungkook.

-

“Damn, I thought it was a one-night-stand… and now we’re married” you mused, lying down on top of your bed, your husband Jungkook right by your side.

“Yeah, but hey, that song we made together was pretty good, wasn’t it?” he questions you, propping his body up on the bed with his elbow, looking down at you.

“It did win after all,” you nod in agreement, a small grin spreading across your face, reminiscing in the project that brought the two of you together in the first place.

“Soooo,” he chimed, brushing his hair back, “you up for round 2?”

You gasp while your brows furrow in utter shock as you throw a pillow at him and push him off the bed.

I guess some things just end up working together in perfect harmony.

-

-

-

MASTERLIST

[dariusfrasier]

Interviewing @LisanneYu

I ordered a sweet tea and grabbed a small table in the back corner at the coffee house. I hoped it didn’t make my prospective employee too uncomfortable. Since Leo and I both worked from home, we didn’t really have an office to meet in. I chose an off-hour, so it wasn’t crowded. I opened my laptop and reviewed the applicant’s resume while I waited for her to arrive. 

——————

Leaving Dai with Doc and her son might be the easiest part of today. I couldn’t remember the last time I went to an interview. At least the long drive would give me time to psych myself up for it. Almost three hours was a long drive for a job interview, but I really needed a fresh start, and I needed to see the person I was going to work for in person. Not just online. 

------------------

Her resume was impressive but brief. She had worked almost exclusively freelance for a long time. I was impressed by some of the sites she had worked on like the Hope House nonprofit and Cherry Chic retail clothing site. I was very curious about why she was interested in this job right now—another question to add to my list. I checked my watch. It was still a few minutes until the interview. I sent Macy a quick text to tell her I loved her, then sat back to people watch.

——————-

I found the coffee shop easily enough and made good time on the drive. After parking, I smoothed my hair and checked my lip gloss in the rear view mirror before texting Doc to let her know I arrived. She sent me a picture of the boys playing and wished me luck. I sighed softly and smiled as I put my phone in my bag and got out of the car. “Here we go,” I whispered to myself as I headed inside scanning the room for Mr. Frasier.

———————

When I saw the lovely statuesque woman walk in, I knew it was my interview. I gave her a moment to look around before I stood up with a smile and gestured to my table. She met my smile with a reserved one of her own before walking over. ”Ms. Yu?” I asked as I offered my hand. She slipped her hand into mine. ”Pleased to meet you, Mr. Frasier.” ”Please have a seat. Can I get you something to drink?”

----------------------- 

He had kind eyes. That's the first thing I noticed about him. His hand was warm and welcoming. We held hands a moment longer than most. Both of us sensed that we were alike. Darius was a shifter as I was. I took a seat across from him, setting my bag between my feet. “Can I get you something to drink?” I glanced at his drink. “An iced green tea would be great. Thank you.” He nodded and motioned a waiter over. I took a moment to look around as he ordered for me. The coffee shop was cute and not too busy. We had plenty of privacy, not that we needed it really. 

----------------------

In just a few moments her tea was brought over. We thanked the waiter and waited until he stepped away. “Thank you for coming to meet me, Ms. Yu. I appreciate how far you drove to be here.” She smiled briefly and took a sip of her tea. “I actually enjoyed the drive.” “Your resume was quite impressive. Especially your work on the Hope House and retail clothing sites. Your freelance work is quite extensive. It makes me curious as to why this job interests you now.”

————————

“That’s a really good question.” I had to laugh a little as Darius reached for his glass. “I have been very lucky in my projects. But freelance isn’t always the best choice for everyone. I’m sure you understand that being a solo worker is not always fun when there is no one to bounce ideas off of or share the decision making.” I reached for my tea. “It seems like it would be great, and sometimes it is, but it’s also tiring.” I took a drink and then brushed my hair over my shoulder. “That’s not the only reason though.”

———————

As she spoke, her voice got stronger. She was reserved and soft-spoken at first. Almost hard to hear. When she talked about working on your own, her words rang true. “I can’t argue with you about working on your own. That’s how Leo and I became partners. You said there was another reason.” She nodded and seemed to withdraw briefly. I had a feeling that whatever this reason was, it wouldn’t be easy for her to discuss.

—————-

“Have you ever just needed a fresh start? A change of scenery?” My eyes locked on his as he nodded almost immediately. “That’s what I need. I need a new perspective and a new challenge, but I also need more flexible time to be with my son. He just turned 5 last month and will be starting school in the fall. When you’re in charge of everything, like with freelance work, you don’t always have much control over your time.” I took another sip and looked out the window. “Please don’t misunderstand me. If we had a tight deadline or were under some kind of crunch, I would absolutely put in the work. I just don’t want to do that 24/7 anymore.”

------------------

How could I argue with her reasoning? I really couldn’t. Taking Leo on as a partner and splitting the responsibilities with him had been a lifesaver. “I’m curious about something you said. If your son will be starting school in the fall, how will this give you more time with him?” Maybe I had missed something but it seems like the time to spend more time with him was before school. Not having kids of my own, I could be completely wrong. Looking over at Lisanne, it seemed like my question might have hit a nerve. She seemed like she couldn’t sit still all of a sudden. “Ms. Yu, I didn’t mean to pry. You don’t have to answer that.”

------------------

I shook my head with a slight smile. “You weren’t. Please call me Lisanne or Lisi. I don’t mind answering.” He nodded and sat back, closing his laptop as he gave me space to think about what I wanted to say. “My partner had to relocate indefinitely to Texas. Something high security. Even if we went with her, we would be apart. I thought it would be better for my son to stay in the only home he’s ever known. But the house is...it’s so big. Without her and our daughter, it’s not what I expected.” Nothing had been what I expected after she left. I felt separate from the rest of the pack. Even more so now than before. As much as I loved Paul, he had his own family. Doc was the only one who understood how I felt. She was the one who encouraged me to find my way to a new happy.

------------------

I wasn’t sure how to respond. Her partner and their daughter? I couldn’t begin to understand what that might be like. “That sounds like a situation… ,” I shook my head and took a drink. “I’m sorry, Lisanne. I can’t even begin to understand what that must be like. I appreciate you opening up like that though. That must have been equally difficult.” She smiled a little and smoothed her hand along her leg before answering. “I’ve only discussed it… out loud with one other person.” I had to smile. “I’m flattered. Do you have any questions for me?”

--------------------

He was as kind as his eyes. This felt like a good fit. I felt almost hopeful. Something I had not felt in a long time. “I do actually.” I looked around and lowered my voice slightly. “Your partner. Leo?” Darius smiled and nodded. “Is he… like us?” I had a feeling I knew the answer before he even shook his head. “I see. Has that ever been a problem for you? As you can understand, I need to know that I can trust those I’m working with.” I drew my finger through the condensation on the bottom of my glass as I waited for his response.

---------------

It was a good question and one I hadn’t expected. “Leo is a great guy. Personable and easygoing. He’s very accepting of others no matter their differences.” I finished my tea. “He recently got married, and I was his best man. I’ve known him and his new bride for a few years now. They have a little boy who’s about 3 I think. If you decide to settle here or in New Orleans, I bet your little guy would become fast friends with his.” I laughed a little. “Um, I don’t know much about kids but 3-year-olds and 5-year-olds are pretty similar, right?”

--------------

I couldn’t help but laugh. “Somewhat. Luckily, my son gets along with all ages.” He really did. I was incredibly lucky. Becoming a mother had been something I never planned on until I met Marisol, but I had no regrets. My son was my whole world.  “The only thing he has given me a fight on is his name. He’s insisting on being called Danny even though his name is Dai.” I laughed and spelled it for Darius. “Apparently his name isn’t cool enough or something.” 

--------------

“Wow. That’s harsh.” We laughed for a few more minutes about it. “Anyway, Leo has been great from the start. When we first met in person, I told him about myself. He was curious and respectful when he asked questions. His wife Sam has been the same way. I didn’t want him to feel like he needed to hide anything from her. I don’t anticipate that you would have any problems with him if you worked with us.”  I gave Lisanne what I hoped was a reassuring smile. “Was there anything else?”

--------------

Darius’ response had definitely reassured me that this was something I could do and was starting to really want to do. “I’ve really liked the projects you highlighted on your website. That’s what initially drew me to your job posting. Now that we’ve met, I feel like this could be a great move for me. I think we’d work well together. Being able to work remotely most of the time is a huge plus. But, after this meeting, I think I’d enjoy any meetings we had in person as well.” I spent the next few minutes talking with him about the projects I’d done and what obstacles I’d found and how I moved past them while working on them.

----------------

I wished Leo was here to meet Lisanne and compare notes with. I had a good feeling about her and wanted to offer her the job. Hopefully he’d agree with me when I touched base with him later. “This has been a pleasure, Lisanne. I’m not sure I ever said that about a job interview before.” She laughed and agreed. “I need to talk things over with my partner but I hope to let you know what we decide within the week if that’s okay. If you think of anything you want to ask, you have my email and cell phone number. Feel free to contact me.”

---------------

“Thank you. I couldn’t agree more. You put me at ease immediately. I really appreciate that.” I picked up my purse and got to my feet offering my hand. “I look forward to hearing from you and hopefully getting to know Leo as well.” After he stood up, we shook hands and said our goodbyes. I gave him a slight wave as I headed out to my car feeling so much lighter than when I began this journey. The drive home would fly by as I made my way back to my little boy.

[wildefiction]

Hunger: Three

PAIRING: Jared x Reader

WORD COUNT: 1,506

CHAPTER(S): 3/?

CHAPTER WARNINGS: Job Loss

Relief and terror fought their way through your chest. When he'd left moments before, you'd assumed it would be the last time you'd see him. Sure, he seemed genuine in the time you'd spent together, and yeah, Adam had summoned you to his office, all but offering you a permanent position with the company - but still. Some part of you had decided that the entire thing had only existed in your mind. You'd actually half expected to wake up in your bed to the screeching of the alarm - chalking it up to simply a nice dream.

But he was there. Really there. The hand holding his phone starting to droop, the expression on his face conflicted. Did you want to exchange phone numbers? What could it hurt? These thoughts swirled around in your consciousness, and while it had seemed as if an eternity had passed, in reality it had been only seconds. 

“Oh, uh, su-sure Jared.” A hesitant smile lit up your eyes and you retreated further into the room, holding the door open in invitation. 

After a moment's hesitation, he followed you - choosing to lean his lanky frame against the door. Half in, half out. Like he wasn't fully sure if you were inviting him in or not. Hair fell over your eyes as you bent double, grabbing a thin black cord from the floor beside your bed. Following it up the side of the mattress to disappear under one haphazardly strewn pillow you found your phone; a small green charging light illuminating the darkness.

Spinning to face him once more, your phone held out in exchange for his, you dialed your number into his contacts list. 

After reclaiming your device, the two of you just kind of stood there - neither sure what to say. The silence became nearly palpable. Clearing his throat, Jared's brow furrowed for a moment before smiling down at you. 

“I'll uh..I'll text you. Kay?”

Nodding mutely, you couldn't quite understand what was happening here.

“Sure. Well, uhm, goodnight Jared.” Moving back towards the door, you watched as he turned, grabbing the solid wood barrier as he stepped back into the hallway.

“Night [Y/F/N]” 

*****

The following week was back to business as usual. And, as expected, the grey walls surrounding your cubicle matched too well with the grey weather outside. Glancing out the window across the room, rain pounded the glass, the trees bending against the onslaught of  the wind.

Usually, you loved this weather. You loved living here, but for some reason, something felt off tonight.

With a resigned sigh, you rolled the desk chair back into your workspace and pulled up your email. 

The refreshed inbox now held a single composition. It was from Adam.

Eyes widening, you glanced furtively around, on the lookout for anyone's prying eyes. Personal business on company time was greatly frowned upon.

Maneuvering the non-descript grey mouse to hover over the message, you took a deep breath and clicked. Closing your eyes for a few moments, you steeled yourself for rejection. He'd probably changed his mind. After all, he'd said it himself, not many people had been brought in by special request.

Lifting your eyes to the screen, you scanned the document - searching for the words of regret. Searching for your dismissal. 

It wasn't there.

It was, instead, a formal offer.

The contract detailed everything from your anticipated responsibilities to your travel schedule and their proposed salary. While the offer was generous - there was also the stipulation that you'd have to relocate. To California, where Creation held it's offices. 

Perusing the remainder of the email, you noted fine print at the very bottom:

“Applicant has three business days to respond to first offer. If no contact is made – company has full power to revoke the proposal at any point.”

Three days?! The thudding in your chest picked up speed. A sideways glance to the corner of the monitor gave you pause. It was Tuesday. They expected your response by Friday. Did that mean, if you were to accept the terms that you’d be out of this miserable place by then?

Being a creature of habit, you really weren’t sure you could decide that quickly. Only an hour ago, you’d been convinced the offer wasn’t going to come. Three days ago, you hadn’t even met Jared in person. Now you were faced with one of the biggest decisions of your life. On a very tight deadline. Sweat dotted your forehead even though your skin was cool to the touch. Folding your arms across the top of the formica desktop, you lowered your forehead to rest upon them.

In. Out. In….out.

“What are you doing Ms. [Y/L/N]?”

Startled out of your position, you spun around in the mesh chair, coming face to face with the sour-expression of Mr. Blaine – department supervisor. Flanking him, a stern-looking woman in a boxy polyester three-piece grimaced. To her right, Ted, the loveable bear of a security guard for your building stood quietly; hands clasped over each other. He wouldn’t even look at you.

“Wha..what’s going on?” Fear boiled in your gut. While you’d never been in trouble at work, nor had you ever been approached by anyone in this fashion. There was a current of tension in the small space. Coworkers surreptitiously peered around the corners of their own workspace; ears open for any tidbits of gossip that might make their day more interesting.

“Ms. [Y/L/N], if you would please follow us?”

Standing from your chair, the squeak of the plastic frame was thunderous in your mind, prickling dots of adrenaline present in your extremities as you followed along after Mr. Blaine, the remainder of the small troupe hovered around you and all you could see were sharks circling a potential meal.

The walk down the hallway to the elevator was awkward. The ride down the lift silent; a monotone buzz of the single light inside the only disturbance. Hinges protested with a squeal as the heavy steel doors slid open, your procession filing out silently around you. Approaching the HR department, your mind kicked into overdrive. Had you done something wrong? To your knowledge, nothing was amiss – hell, you’d never even called in sick. Leaning over her desk and selecting a large manila envelope from a stack inside her inbox, the woman turned to face you. A heavy sigh slipped from her pursed lips, replaced quickly by a ridged, flat line. She was un-amused. “Ms. [Y/L/N], we regret to inform you, that effective immediately, your services are no longer required at this agency.” “Please accept this severance package with our sincerest apologies.” Trailing off, her eyes were wide – her breath now held in her chest. Waiting for the backlash. Waiting for you to react. You could almost see the fear in her expression. You almost felt sorry for the woman, it wasn’t her fault that firing people was part of her job description, although you had the very distinct impression that she had no idea about it either. Eyes darting back to the considerable stack of identical packages that she’d selected yours from, the realization that you weren’t the only one this would happen to was immediate. “Ca-can I ask why?” While not timid, your tone was still just above a whisper – confusion laced through the words you uttered. “Unfortunately, Ms. [Y/L/N] – the company was sold last week. They’re moving the headquarters to another location…” Glancing across the room to Mr. Blaine, currently slumped against the wall, hands buried deep in the pockets of his dress pants – you noticed, for the first time his unkempt hair and loose tie. He’d been putting on a show in front of your co-workers. This was affecting him too, so it seemed. Scrubbing his hands over his face, the exhaustion and worry were evident in his expression. “So, this isn’t because I did something wrong?” You were careful how you worded the question. While you hadn’t been able to place why they might be letting you go, neither did you want them to think you had a reason. “No, unfortunately. You haven’t been the first this week, and…you’re not likely to be the last.” “I’m really, very sorry. I do wish you the best of luck Ms. [Y/L/N].” Holding his hand out, Mr. Blaine fixed you with a look that was, quite likely, the closest thing to you’d ever seen to sincerity. And so, for the first time in several years, you found yourself home in the middle of the afternoon – with nothing to do but wonder where your life was about to go. At least you had options. So, with a deep breath, you pulled your laptop from the couch, opened the email you had received earlier from Adam and accepted the offer – proposing a meeting over lunch to discuss details and to hopefully convince him that you didn’t -need- to live in California to fulfill this role.

TAGS: @jaredsunflowergoddess @arses21434 @wings-of-a-raven @jamielea81

[lailannajacobs]

Just Dumb Luck pt. 6

Pairing: Loki X Reader

Warnings: Fluff! 

Word Count: 3k

Summary: You have your next double date. 

A/N: I’m in the middle of killer finals guys so that’s why this update took a little longer and the next one will probably be another two weeks too but after the 11th you guys should get more frequent updates! I hope you enjoy! As always, feedback is appreciated and requests are welcome! 

For someone who said he didn’t like texting, Loki had answered as soon as you had let him know when your next date would be. You had been disappointed when Amelie had suggested Saturday because you had hoped to get to see Loki earlier than that but your disappointed hadn’t lasted long. He had texted back, asking when you got off work and all week (except Tuesday of course) you took turns walking each other home. On the Monday you had felt a little uncertain knowing that the last time you had seen him things had gotten pretty personal but as soon as you saw that wolfish smirk of his, that worry disappeared.

You talked about everything from your fake relationship to the pain Brian’s marketing job was causing you to stupid things like what your reaction would be if you figured out there were actually other realms. Every once in a while, even though he didn’t share much about himself, you would catch glimpses into his life. Sometimes they were small things like mentions of the stupidities he did with his brother and other times it would be bigger things like the look on his face when he mentioned his mother that told you just how much she meant to him. No matter what you talked about, you had never realized how short your commute could be.

You look around for Loki. You’re early for you’re date, which, if you’re being honest, has never happened before. You’re always late. You decide to take the time to try and brainstorm ideas for your meeting with Brian on Monday. He’s shot down everything you showed him during the past week and you don’t know if it’s because he’s being petty or if it’s because you’re ideas actually are kinda shitty. Your deadline is the end of the month and after almost two weeks of working on his project, you’re nowhere near a result that will land you that promotion. You don’t want to let yourself get discouraged though, you’re going to get this done and get it done right, you have to.

You’re typing furiously, caught in an idea, when you sense someone standing in front of you. Even absorbed in your work, it isn’t hard for you to know who it is. You recognize the subtle sent of his cologne and the dark suit in the corner of your vision.

“Gimme a second.” You say, without bothering to look up.

You’ve lost any sort of formality you might have had with him before hand and he waits in easy silence for you to finish your train of thought. When you put your phone away, you shake your head with a little laugh.

“No matter the occasion you’re in a suit aren’t you? I’m curious to see what you’d look like out of it.”

He raises a brow, “You’d like to see me out of it?”

You feel your cheeks heat, and you swat his arm, “Out of it and into something else. You know what I meant.”

“I’m only getting into character love.” He slides his hands into his pockets.

You roll your eyes. “Save it for when they get here.”

He smirks.

You look around the stadium entrance for Brian and Amelie, knowing it’s not like Brian to be late. He always hated it when you would arrive in a flurry with some story to explain why you were late. It always made him grumpy for the rest of the evening.

You turn your attention back to Loki. “I’ve been meaning to ask you if you actually like baseball or not.”

“Not particularly.” He shrugs. “I don’t quite understand it.”

“I think that might be because the suit is stopping you from enjoying the experience completely.” You tease. “Or you just haven’t gone with the right person yet.”

You want to take the words back as soon as they’re out of your mouth. They’re too close to the real kind of flirting you do when you’re actually interested in a guy.

“Getting into character as well I see,” he says, the words reassuring and disappointing you at the same time, “are you saying that I should be wearing something like that?” He gestures to the Yankees cap and jersey you’re wearing.

“Yes.” you nod enthusiastically, “you have no choice but to show some pride when the Red Sox are playing.”

He looks at you with a funny little look on his face, “is that the team you’re taking for?”

You take a step back with a hand to your chest, “oh god, you know nothing about baseball. Okay that’s fine, it’s all good, it’s okay. Just know we’re taking for the Yankees. The team in blue. It’ll be fine.”

“I had figured they were in blue.” He says.

“And yet when I said Red Sox it didn’t clue you in?”

He lifts a brow, his lips in a straight line, sass emanating from him.

You laugh, “Okay okay! I’ll explain some of rules along the way but as long as you can pretend to be a boyfriend who shares my love of baseball we’ll be fine.”

“That I can do.” he lifts your cap from your head and places it on his own. “And, how does it look?”

You bite your lip to hold back from laughing, “Um, would you like me to lie?”

“No.”

“It’s strange.”

“Good. Being here feels a little strange.”

Before he can take it off, you hear Amelie’s giggly hello. Your eyes snap up to Loki’s and he gives you a little wink before you spin around, his arm sliding around your shoulders.

“Hi Amelie! How are you?” You give her shoulder a little squeeze.

“Oh I’m good! I’ve been looking forward to this double date all week! I just felt like we really clicked last time, didn’t we?” She pushes her hair behind her ears.

Your head bobs up and down, “I totally agree. I only wished we had met sooner.”

She takes your hand, her big blue eyes looking up into yours with pure kindness. “Oh my god same.” The smile on your face feels less forced and you can’t help but like Amelie. Just a little.

“Brian. Nice to see you again,” Loki drawls, “How are things at work?”

Brian shoots a look in your direction before answering. “Good.”

There’s a moment of awkward silence. You feel Loki’s fingers drumming along your bicep and you snuggle in a little closer, just for good measure.

You break the silence. “Shall we?”

Brian motions for you to lead the way and Amelie pops up on your other side, “I hope you two haven’t been waiting long! My mother called right before we were supposed to leave and, not that she’s in trouble or anything, but she’s getting up there you know and…” She keeps chatting but you don’t really hear the words she’s saying.

You figure as long as you nod and make the right expressions at the right time, she won’t know the difference. You enter the stadium and there are so many people, it’s getting hard to weave through the crowd but Loki’s arm remains steady around your shoulder. You doubt a random stranger could separate the two of you even if they tried.

“So basically, my mother is the biggest chatterbox on the planet and that’s why we’re late.” Amelie concludes. “You should have seen Brian though, he was so worried about being on time! It was adorable!”

Amelie grins at Brian, her tiny nose crinkling in a pretty adorable way. He returns it but you know its only halfhearted. You’ve been on the receiving end of that smile too many times not to know it.

“Amelie, are you as big of a baseball fan as (y/n)?” Loki asks, turning his intense, green eyed stare on her.

She blushes, “oh, well, um, I don’t know about that…I do love it though! When I was a little girl..” She spouts off into another story.

Loki is nodding as if its the most interesting thing he’s ever heard in his life and the more questions he asks her, the tighter Brian’s grip around Amelie gets. At one point he pulls her so close, she looks a little startled.

When you break through the crowd to your section of the stadium, Loki dips his head, his breath tickling your ear, “If I leave you for a bit, will you be able to survive her incessant chattering?”

You turn your head, and place your hand on his chest, “Don’t be so dramatic.” you whisper. “I’ll be fine.”

He shoots you a sly grin before excusing himself and heading off in the opposite direction you came from.

“You two are just adorable.” Amelie gushes.

You notice she had just seen the whole exchange but thankfully it seems like she didn’t hear anything. “Thanks… I’m so glad I met him…he’s just…different. I feel like I can be completely myself around him, you know? Competitive side and all.”

She nods, believing every word of your act. A part of you wonders if the words actually are an act. They didn’t quite feel like one. You tell yourself that it doesn’t mean anything. You and Loki are friends now and it’s perfectly acceptable to be glad you met a friend.

She takes your hand. “How did you meet?”

You give her hand a squeeze. “You should ask Loki. He’s so much better at telling that story than I am.”

“Should we wait for him?” She looks around for your supposed boyfriend, “or do we find our seats?”

You shrug, “we can head to our seats, I’m sure he’ll be able to find us.”

“Are you sure?” Brian sneers.

“Don’t worry about it, he’s a grown man. He’s very good at finding his way around.” You send him a peachy smile and head down the stairs towards your seat.

You’re thankful that Amelie begs to sit beside you so that you don’t have to try and make small talk with Brian while waiting for Loki to come back. Where he went, you have no clue and you only hope that you were right about him being able to find his way back. The stadium is pretty packed, people filling in from everywhere with their beers and hot dogs. The rival energy is palpable and you let yourself smile for real for the first time on this awkward double date. You’re pretty sure the only person who doesn’t think this is awkward is Amelie.

“So do you think maybe you should go find your boyfriend?” Brian spits out the word boyfriend like it leaves a disgusting taste in his mouth.

“I don’t think she would have to look very far.”

You can’t believe what you’re seeing. Instead of the jacket, he’s wearing a jersey similar to yours, your cap is still on his head and he’s holding four beers. You’ve never seen him look so…you don’t know if the word is average or out of place. Either way, you can’t help the grin on your face.

You don’t know if you want to tease him or thank him for putting in so much effort. You do know that the pure hatred you see on Brian’s face when Loki hands him his beer is priceless especially when Amelie turns to him and says, “isn’t that sweet of him?”

For a second, you wonder if there’s a pointed message to her words. Just the fact that you’re asking yourself that question makes you realize how perfect Loki is playing this.

Loki hands you the beer and takes a seat beside you, his arm draping over your shoulder once again. You’re extremely aware that whenever you’re with Brian, some part of him is always touching you and judging by the look on Brian’s face, he’s well aware too. There’s no mistaking who’s date you are.

“Do I look the part now?” Loki whispers.

You can’t help but laugh, “yes, but I think I preferred the suit.”

He brushes the hair away from your neck, sending shivers down your spine, “So do I. But I must admit, it might only be because the jersey looks much better on you than it does on me.”

You’re aware that Amelie is trying her hardest not to look like she’s paying attention, so you decide to lean into the whole act. You lock onto his gaze, your fingers dancing along his chest, “Might? You should just admit that I look better in your clothes than you do.”

He chuckles, “you have no idea.”

His green eyes are bright, dancing with mischief as if he knows something you don’t. You love that look. You’ve only seen it a few times but you know every time you do, you know you got him. The real him. It’s exhilarating and brings out your competitive side every time.

“So how has it been getting to work with Brian?” Amelie snaps you out of your trance and you tear your eyes away from Loki.

“Oh you know Brian, I’ve never met anyone pickier about his work than he is” you laugh, “but all in all, everything is going well.”

Amelie giggles, “It’s like his baby.”

On the other side of Amelie, Brian refuses to comment or even look at you. You know he’s fuming and, as you notice Amelie glance from Loki’s fingers aimlessly drumming along your shoulder to her boyfriend, you can only guess that she’s probably wondering why he’s sitting there with his arms crossed.  

“How long until the game begins?” Loki asks, his lips spreading into his sly smirk.

You place your hand on his thigh, “Not long. Here’s what you need to know…”

“So what do you think?” You ask, somewhere around the fifth inning.

The first half of the game went by in a blur. Loki had picked up the rules pretty quickly and although he hadn’t been as enthusiastic as you, Amelie had gotten right up beside you, shouting at the players regardless of the fact that they couldn’t hear either of you. You had been surprised by how loudly a girl her size could shout. You knew it was supposed to be a double date but when you weren’t absorbed in the game, you spent most of your time only chatting with Loki.

He stays silent for a moment, considering his answer and shrugs, “It’s not as terrible as I imaged it would be.”

“What a stellar review.” You roll your eyes.

Loki’s about to defend himself when Amelie smacks your arm excitedly. “look (y/n), the Kiss Cam is on!”

You lean back into your seat and smile, nestled under Loki’s arm. The Kiss Cam never gets old. As cheesy as it makes you, you’ve always enjoyed this part of bring at the game. A seventy some year old couple, decked out in Yankees gear from head to toe, smile lovingly at one another and share a peck on the lips before the camera pans to a young couple waving their arms excitedly, reading for their on screen moment.

Amelie sighs, “aren’t they just the cutest!”

You nod, trying to mimic her enthusiasm.

“What’s going on?” Loki whispers in your ear.

You smirk and take your eyes off of the jumbotron, “the cameras go around zooming in on two people and when they do, those people have to kiss.”

He looks up at the new couple being filmed. “And the point is?”

“I don’t know…to share the love? It’s fun and all you have to do is watch.” You can’t help but be amused by his confusion.

“And if you and I are on that screen?”

You whip your attention to the screen and see yourself alongside Loki, who’s wearing his signature wolfish grin. Your wide eyes are obvious to everyone in the stadium, which only makes the camera man stay on you two longer than he normally would have. You can hear the crowd chanting for you to kiss because it’s taking so long and you feel Amelie poke you a few times.

“Is this part of the deal?” Loki’s green eyes are serious, waiting for you to make the final decision.

If you don’t kiss him, you’ll have to find some sort of excuse as to why you didn’t want to kiss your boyfriend. But do you want to kiss him? If you’re being honest, you’ve been wondering what it would be like for the past couple weeks. It’s only a kiss, you tell yourself, it won’t change anything between the two of you.

You dip your head slightly so that no one else knows you just answered his question and his hand moves to cup your face as he leans in. His lips are soft on yours, tentative, almost as if he’s afraid you’re going to pull away but when you slip your hand up his chest, his hand moves to the back of your neck pulling you closer.

The kiss doesn’t last long and he pulls away, his lips curled into a grin. You’re breathless. It couldn’t have been longer than a couple seconds but your heart is pounding in your chest. The look in his eyes tells you he knows that. You want to wipe that look off his face so that you’re the one wearing that expression but you bite your lip instead. A part of you wants to pull him back and kiss him again, deeper and longer - forget the rest of the stadium watching  - but another part, the part that doesn’t want you to get hurt, keeps you rooted to your seat. You can’t admit that you liked the kiss more than you should have. It wouldn’t mean anything good if you did. You paste a winning smile onto your face. There’s nothing else to it. You’re both just playing the game. And judging by Amelie’s happy little squealing, you’re both pretty good at it.

The arm wrapped around your shoulders pulls back so that his fingers brush along the nape of your neck and he removes all physical contact. He leans closer, making sure that nothing but his breath touches you, and murmurs “so (y/n)? Does this mean we’re winning?”

Part 7

Tags: 

@lokixme @lokislilcaribbeanprincess @crescent-night @wrappedinlokisarms @lemonie2 @fuckthatfeeling @thatkidofwarandpeace @ihavenofilter @jessiejunebug @tony-sassmaster-stark @bbcsassdeadass @perceptorxbrainstorm @harrymewmew @casualminiaturetimemachine @artsymeadow

[rhabakoli]

Infinite White - 2

I don’t have any control, and @cgn-99​ asked... well, I do not live to please, but it’s pretty close. 

@dreamwritesimagines​ @i-am-always-famished​ @marauderskeeper​ @superwolfchild-fan​ @thescarsweleave​ @cgn-99​ @alicedopey​ @anxietysucks​ @kitsch-i-might-be​

The week went by, finals creeped closer, Fenja and her roommate never saw each other anymore, one being always in the library (Fenja) and the other one (Maeve) always on the track or the gym. That’s why at lunch on Wednesday, the only day of the week where they had lunch break at the same time, they had to eat and catch up at the same time. Which, to be honest, they did not manage. “How’s your boyfriend?” “He’s fine. Buried somewhere under his books and his dog and his scripts.” Maeve shoved a piece of steak into her mouth, rolling with her eyes when her taste buds exploded. “How do they make this so good, I don’t understand?” Someone had to give Fenja a medal for understanding her even with cheeks like a chipmunk.

“There are actually faeries working in the kitchen, that’s why everything tastes so good.”, she remarked, stabbing her own food with vigour.

Maeve swallowed, taking a sip of her water and pointed her fork at her friend. “How’s your essay going? Deadline was yesterday, wasn’t it?” Fenja nodded. “I had some slight difficulties with the conclusion, that made me want to just burn it, but I got help. I hope Finehair is satisfied, I’d die if I disappointed him.” Maeve chuckled. “Isn’t it funny that no one ever calls him by his real name? Even the other professors call him Finehair.” “Come on, look at it. It’s beautiful.” Fenja grinned. “And no one can pronounce his last name without butchering it or biting off their tongue. It’s a service to him, if anything.” “I have to agree.”, a male voice came from next to them, made the roomies look up wide eyed. “Professor.”, Fenja pressed out, terrified that he heard her. Maeve looked like she had swallowed her tongue, eyes bulging and face red. Harald “Finehair” Halfdanarson stood at their table, thermos under his arm and papers in his hand. His hair was in his typical braid, that made half the long-haired population of their school turn green with envy. They wanted to break into his bathroom and take a look at his hair care regime. “I saw you, and wanted to congratulate you on your essay, it was brilliant, Ms. Mueller.” “Oh, thank you, Sir.” “I am off in a minute, I have a meeting, but I’d like to submit it to the YWA. If that is something you’d be interested in.” Maeve squeaked and grabbed her friends hand over the table, immediately answering for her. “Of course she is! She’d be stupid, if she didn’t!” Fenja just agreed silently, still staring at her professor in stunned silence. The man laughed at her enthusiasm and did a little bow. “I’ll make sure they get it, then. Have a nice day, ladies.” He tipped his imaginary hat and wandered off, leaving the two of them in tense, excited silence. That is, until Fenja found her voice and breathed: “What. The. Fuck.” Maeve started giggling manically, her food forgotten for once. “The freaking Young Writers Association, freaking hell, Fenja!” “What the fuck.” “I know!” Maeve got up, came around the table and latched onto her roommates shoulders, giddy and basically vibrating from joy. “The last person from our school to have their writing submitted was one of the Ragnarssons, wasn’t it?” Fenja nodded, absent-mindedly correcting her: “Actually, it was Gala. She was also the first woman to get awarded by them and have her articles in their publications.” “You’re gonna get into the Hall of Fame, darling! I can feel it.” “I think I’ll be sick.”

The Young Writers Association was an organisation oriented to support young talents, help them establish themselves in the writer’s world. They collaborated with legal firms specialized on publishing, publishing houses both internationally renowned and small local ones, and they were always striving for fair and transparent relations between providers and talents. Tons of people submitted their works, craving for the YWA to judge their words, and to actually get through to an editor- It was a big stepping stone, and to have a Professor’s opinion definitely carried a bit of an extra weight, made them look a bit closer and be harsher in their judgement. Fenja was out of it for the rest of the day, even though she tried to get on with her study plan. But her brain continued to pull out doubts and questionable comments and insecurities, which, frankly, she did not need right now. With a frustrated grunt, she shoved her pens and books away and let her head fall onto the desk, forehead colliding with the wood, making her regret that particular move on the spot. “Ouch.”, she murmured, rubbing at it. Her phone chimed, and then again, and again, and again. She pressed her thumb against the sensor, unlocking it successfully. Then, not taking her head from the wood, she read the emails she got. “Spam, Spam, Finehair,- Linguae Populi?” She halted, burrowing through her brain, but she didn’t associate anything with that name. “What the heck is that?” After opening the mail, she groaned again. “That freaking baboon.”

Dear Ms. Mueller,

My brother told me you’d like to help us with developing and testing our Translator. I want to thank you for your time and efforts, firstly. Secondly, I’d like to meet up, to explain our work ethic and to hash out the details of your work with us. If my brother is to believe, you’re fluent in German, which - coincidentally - is one of the languages we haven’t yet managed to translate at all.

I’d be delighted to hear back from you.

Ingrid Ivarsdottir Chief of Development Linguae Populi

“Well, fuck me.” That looked way professional. Poor Ingrid, being burdened with such a challenged truffle pig of a brother. She decided to write her back, to not let her wait too long and maybe get her hopes up. She decidedly did not have the time to do this. Definitely not. And if Ragnar had listened, he’d known as well. Afterward, she opened the email from her professor, sitting up rapidly as she read the single sentence he’d sent.

just informing you that i submitted your essay, I wish you luck

Oh noooooo. She’d die of nervous gastric problems. Her forehead thumped against the wooden surface once more, making her wince. That hurt.

After a couple of minutes wallowing in her self doubt and nervousness, and bouncing knees, she decided to do something productive with her energy and go for a run. Bad idea. Big mistake. Even a bigger mistake than letting Finehair submit her essay. Her lungs were probably cussing at her, her heart was threatening to break through her chest and strangle her with her own arteries and veins, her legs burned as well as her windpipe. “Fuck. Nah. Never again.” The schools ‘Athletic Campus’ was situated behind the administrative building, bracketed in by dorm buildings left and right. It held a huge American Football field, one for soccer/lacrosse, and around both were of them tracks, which were just enough to house both the track team and Fenja as well as a couple of fellow masochistic psychopaths. The soccer field was empty, so she decided to crawl there and die in the green grass. Her shirt camouflaged into it, maybe they’d let her rot here. Her breath was rattling in her lungs, she could feel her rapid pulse in her fingertips and she was 99.9% sure her legs would not carry her back to the dorms. “Are you dead yet? Do I get to live in a single room?” “Geh sterben.” “I may not know what that meant, but I do know it was not nice.” Maeve bent over her roomie, hands on her knees and broad grin on her face. “I saw you running. You never run.” “Yes, and I just now remembered why.” Fenja struggled to get up, so Maeve grabbed her hands and pulled her into a sitting position. “It’s awful.” “No, it’s not.” “Yeah it is. You, my dearest honeyboo, you are just crazy.” Maeve shrugged. “Might be, but you’ll regret not training with me when zombies are after us and try to eat our nutritious, healthy brains.” With that, she made her way back to her team, waving at her friend as she jogged over. Backwards. Such a bragging bugger. Fenja sat there for a while, watching her friend and the team do their drills, and let the sun shine on her back. It was really nice today, blue sky, fresh air, a small breeze. Her thoughts drifted, thinking about her plans for the coming week, whether she’d be able to visit her grandparents and when she’d have to do the final reviews before her exams. Thus, she did not hear the soccer team walk out, the guys playing and fucking around. And, who would guess, of course one of them sent a ball flying, right towards her unsuspecting figure.

**

Part 3

[gwenbrightly]

Maybe

Cross posted from ffnet. Hello everyone! Welcome to the fic that was supposed to be my Valentines Day special… But… I'm not great with deadlines, so it's a few days late. "Maybe" is centered around Kai and Skylor, and takes place between s4 and s5. I've taken some liberties here with how Master Chen's Noodle House operates, and a few other things, but I really hope you enjoy my first attempt at writing Kailor! It was definitely interesting, trying to find the right balance between awkward dorkiness and adorable fluff, but I had a lot of fun writing this, as random as it turned out! Enjoy!

________________________________________________________________

Skylor stared balefully at her watch, silently willing the meeting she was currently in the middle of to reach its end before she got driven insane. The past month had been an exhausting, chaotic mess for her, and she was ready for it to be over. Following her father's banishment to the cursed realm, she had begun fighting to rebuild his noodle empire in a much less criminally inclined way. There had been little time to relax; she'd barely been able to appreciate the fact that she was living on her own terms for the first time in her life before being thrust into the process of orchestrating the many changes that needed to be made. Countless hours had been dedicated to debating and discussing, interviewing and observing, adjusting and questioning. All in the hopes of giving those associated with the many branches of the popular restaurant a chance at a new beginning. And it was nice, to have a purpose. But there were times where she debated whether or not she was actually making any headway.

"But if we reconfigure our employee rights policy as you have proposed, production may be negatively effected, which will most certainly lead to a significant decrease in profit..." A representative from one of the noodle factories pointed out, not at all pleased with the adjustments the redhead had just described. Sometimes she wondered if the individual in question wanted her to fail. She could've sworn she heard someone grunt in agreement. The bespectacled young women across the table from her glanced up from her Borg tablet in concern. Skylor shook her head. Best not to let this situation get out of hand.

"I am aware of that, Mr. Millers. I've already told you multiple times that I am more than prepared to deal with the consequences of any adjustments we make as long as it allows us to give Master Chen's Noodle House the positive reputation it deserves. So, really, I'm not sure why you've brought this up again." She said with a sigh. How much longer before she could retreat to the safety of her apartment? 10, 15 more minutes?

"Miss Chen has made great progress over the past few weeks. Just think of how popular the puffy potstickers have become since she decided to put them back on the menu." June, her recently hired assistant manager added quietly. Yes, she had made the right decision in selecting this girl to join her tightly knit team of employees, even if she was rather soft spoken.

"I am merely... concerned that these changes have not been thought out sufficiently. This business has existed for decades... It would be a shame if someone were to... Run it into the ground with unrealistic dreams..." The man replied in an oily tone, giving her a very fake smile. Skylor frowned. Such behavior was only going to make the meeting more tedious. It was official. He definitely wouldn't mind seeing her slip up.

"First of all, the lack of pay and deplorable working conditions seen in many of our more rural factories could be considered illegal, as I'm sure you know, and second of all, don't think I'm oblivious to what you are insinuating. I had hoped that your expertise and years of experience would be beneficial in reforming my father's business, but if you continue to undermine my judgement and fight me at every turn, I will be forced to ask you to leave." She informed Mr. Millers with a pointed stare. He deflated slightly but didn't seem overly thrilled to have been called out on his behavior.

"...As you wish, Ms. Chen..." For now.

"Good." Skylor declared forcefully, sharing an exasperated look with June, " I propose that we begin implementing adjustments as planned, then. To start with, all workers will now be entitled to a 15 minute break every three hours, and a half an hour break after five. Shifts will be no longer than nine hours, and we are increasing pay to minimum wage. All in favor?" She and June raised their hands immediately. The head delivery truck driver, quality control specialist, and several faculty members hailing from various locations, joined them, eventually, leaving a disgruntled Mr. Millers and one additional factory representative as the only opposers.

"That's eight for and two against. Sorry, Mr. Millers, but it looks like majority wins in this case." Skylor's assistant declared, hurriedly typing the results of the vote for posterity. She didn't appear even remotely apologetic about this turn of events.

"Thank you, everyone, for being so flexible. I know we've experienced a lot of changes lately, but I truly believe they will help make Master Chen's more successful in the long run. Now, is there anything else we need to discuss? I know many of you have families to get home to, so I'd prefer not to drag this meeting out any more than we have to, especially on a Saturday." Skylor commented with a relieved smile. Almost finished...

"I vote we call it quits. Today's supposed to be date night with the wife." Offered the truck driver. The others nodded their assent. Even those who were dissatisfied with the outcome of the meeting were ready to depart.

"Okay, then. Enjoy the rest of your weekend. I'll see all of you next week, alright?" The redhead called as conference room exploded into a flurry of chairs being pushed forward and paperwork being packed away.

"Phew. Glad that's over." June told her, watching everyone leave.

"Yep. We survived another run in with the infamous Mr. Millers."

"He sure is determined to throw you to the sharks... I don't know how you do it..."

"It isn't easy, but I'm sure he'll come around. Eventually. Or he'll just straight up quit. But it helps to have such a good team on my side." Skylor replied, elbowing her, "You've been a great help in getting everything organized. I really appreciate all your hard work. And June? Tell Chad I say hello... I can see his car in the parking lot." The assistant manager's cheeks flushed.

"Oh. O-of course. See you tomorrow... Please try to relax a little. I don't wanna end up having to run this place all by myself if you overwork yourself to death..."

"No promises, but I'll try. Now get yourself outta here – don't need keep that boyfriend of yours waiting, right? " The young woman told her friend, practically shoving her out the door.

"Okay, okay. I'm going. Bye!"

"Bye." At least one of them had something enjoyable to do with the remainder of the afternoon.

"Miss Chen? A-are you leaving? There's a customer who's been asking for you for the past half an hour…" The waitress who had suddenly appeared by her side informed her. Skylor cursed her luck. It looked like relaxation would have to wait.

"Where?" She asked, exhaling deeply.

"The corner booth over by the window. You can't miss him…" The waitress replied, pointing. Better get this over with, then, she thought, wandering towards the table she'd been directed to. The master of amber took her time, reluctant to engage in another potentially frustrating conversation.

"Hello? Someone said you wanted to see me… is there a problem?" She inquired, drawing closer.

"Oh, there's no problem," The person replied casually, turning so she could see their face, "I just wanted to talk to the prettiest restaurant owner in all of Ninjago City, that all." And then recognition dawned on her.

"Kai?" Skylor gasped in surprise.

"The one and only. Do you have time to talk for bit?" The spiky haired ninja smiled widely.

"Uh... Sure, definitely. It's been awhile... How have you been since the tournament?" She commented, eagerly slipping onto the bench opposite his.

"Oh, you know, the usual. Trying to keep Cole and Jay from killing each other. Making sure Lloyd actually sleeps at night and isn't living entirely off of peach rings. Solving minor problems for civilians. You hear about that bank robbery last week? Yeah, that was us." Kai told her with a shrug. The redhead's eyes widened.

"Wow, really? Sounds like you've been busy, then."

"Yeah. That's why I wasn't able to visit sooner – though I really wanted to... Especially since Master Wu's decided he wants to try his hand at tea making. He's got all of us helping him remodel Garmadon's old monastery so he can use it as a teashop." She wished he had been able to drop by before now, but she'd take what she could get.

"Oh. That's... That's an interesting decision. How is Lloyd taking it?" He looked a touch guilty, probably worried about his honorary brother. She'd gotten the impression that they were an extremely close-knit family. What would it be like to be part of something like that? Skylor wondered.

"It's hard to tell. He says he's just happy to have his team back together again... We're hoping he really is cool with it, but… getting him to talk about his feelings is like pulling teeth sometimes..."

"Yeesh. Sounds about right from what I've seen of him."

"Basically… But enough about me and my crazy family drama, even if I do admit to being a little worried about the kid. How has life been treating you these days?" Kai questioned (after all, he had come to see her, and she clearly needed to de-stress).

"It's been… hectic, to say the least. You wouldn't believe the number of sketchy business agreements my father made while he was still… around… I've been trying to undo most of them, but it takes time… and, well… there are people who are definitely not gung-ho about all the changes I'm making…" Skylor disclosed with a weary sigh. The master of fire reached across the table and clasped her hands.

"That sucks. I'm sure it'll get better soon, though. You have a that crazy way of winning people over with minimal effort. Few can resist your powers of persuasion." Was it just her, or was the room suddenly much hotter than it had been before?

"Thanks, but not everyone feels the way you do… I just hope it blows over soon. These weekend meetings – that's where I was when you got here – they're killing me… I've barely had time to sleep, let alone enjoy the city…"

"Sounds like you need to get away more… D-do you wanna… Go do something with me to get your mind off of everything?" Kai offered. Skylor froze for a second.

"A-are you asking me out? Like on a date?" She found herself saying, immediately cursing herself for being so forward. This… Dynamic between the two of them was difficult to define. They'd grown incredibly close while on her father's island, but then… she just wasn't quite sure where they stood now…

"Er… Maybe…? I-if you want it to be? I mean, we never did get to play tourist, so…? What I'm saying is… I enjoy you and I… I'd love to spend more time together…and… " The spiky haired young man rambled, smiling awkwardly. His cheeks were noticeably rosier than before. Oh. Yes, she would most certainly be interested in doing so.

"Okay, then… I'd love to go on a maybe date with you, Kai. Thanks for asking." She decided, smirking. His face brightened.

"Great! This is great! So… Uh, when are you free?"

"Say the word and I can be ready in five minutes?"

"Really?"

"Sure. Just lemme grab my purse. That should give you plenty of time to figure out what we're doing…" Skylor said, untangling her hands from Kai's and heading for her office. So, her weekend wouldn't be as tedious as she'd been expecting after all.

______________________________________________________________

"You know, it's gonna be a little hard for me to get out of your car with my eyes shut…" The redhead complained a bit later as she felt the vehicle come to a stop. She could hear the sound of Kai's laughter from the driver's seat.

"Don't worry. I'll make sure you don't face plant."

"That's such a comfort, Kai. Really, I feel much better knowing you're there to catch me..." Skylor replied, resisting the urge to peek. He ignored her sass in favor of exiting the car and slipping around to the passenger side.

"Here," The master of fire said, grabbing her hand and helping her step onto the asphalt outside.

"So, you gonna tell me where we are?" She asked, ready to be permitted to open her eyes again.

"Nope. Not yet. I want it to be a surprise." Her companion informed her. Kai gently gripped her elbow to keep her from losing her way. He was certainly taking this seriously given how spur of the moment it had been. It was kind of adorable.

"It's just a little further." Together, they wandered towards the unknown destination.

"I'm trusting you that when I finally get to open my eyes , I won't be standing in the middle of a sewage system or something." Joked Skylor as the master of fire's pace slowed.

"Geez, I'm not that mean… and I'll have you know that Ninjago City's sewers are actually a very interesting place to explore." He started defensively, "Though, on second thought, we'd probably both rather not run into any Serpentine right now, so. Guess I can't really judge too much…"

"I was kidding, dork. But yeah, maybe save that for another time?"

"Well, uh… We're here, so, you can look now." Kai stated awkwardly.

"Whoah. S' bright out here…" The girl blinked furiously. He slung an arm around her shoulders.

"Well, you see, that's what you get for spending all day inside that restaurant of yours dealing with prickly business men. No time to enjoy the sun." She seriously contemplated whipping him in the face with her ponytail, but ultimately chose not to. Looking around, she caught sight of the rather large sign just in front of them.

"I'm sure it has nothing to do with the fact that I've been pretty much blind since we left the restaurant… The Ninjago City Zoo, huh?"

"I-is this okay? It was the first thing I thought of, and-" The master of fire inquired nervously.

"It's totally fine. I've been meaning to come here, anyway. It'll be way more fun when I've got someone to enjoy it with." She assured him with a smile. Kai returned the smile in relief.

"Shall we?" They linked arms and pressed forward, joining the surprisingly short line of people waiting to get in.

Entrance fee paid, the two soon found themselves standing near a large map with arrows pointing to the various attractions and areas within the park.

"So. There's a peacock on the loose. Should I be concerned?" Skylor observed, attention temporarily drawn away from their discussion of which route to take. Kai glanced where she was looking. A very self satisfied bird was currently strutting about, fanning its brilliant feathers for all to see. Several children followed it in fascination. He snapped a picture on his phone to show the others later.

"Nah, it's pretty common for one to be wandering around like that. They're super tame. You're not, like, allergic or anything, right?" She shook her head.

"Nope. It's just… My father tried to keep one as a pet when I was little, and I guess I've never really…"

"Tried?" Her eyes lit up at the question.

"Well, we only had it for a few weeks. It absolutely hated Clouse – I don't know what he did to anger it – but it was always chasing him down the hallways screeching and stuff? Let me tell you, those things may be beautiful to look at, but they make the worst noises imaginable. It was hilarious to watch, though. He'd just be minding his own business, and that stupid bird would come flying at him like he'd murdered its young." The redhead explained, giggling as she remembered the man's plight.

"Seriously? That's priceless?" Kai declared, laughing with her.

"Yeah, and you should've seen how many times he complained about it, too. He was always like, Master, your pet just tried to make me into a pincushion again. Why do you insist on putting up with such a ridiculous creature? Don't you have a button to make it go away? And my father would just go on and on about how glorious its feathers were and how it was worth more than all of Clouse's hair dye collection."

"Wait-Clouse dyed his hair?" Kai wheezed.

"Ooh, now I'm giving away all my dark family secrets. Better watch out, or I'll start spilling the secret recipe for puffy pot stickers or something…" She teased.

"So, what happened to it?"

"Darn thing ended up being released into the wild. Father couldn't bring himself to get rid of it completely, you know, just in case he ended up needing a way to mess with Clouse again… I think it's still on the island somewhere. Used to see it every once in awhile when I went hiking and stuff."

"That has to be one of the coolest stories I've heard in a long time." The master of fire asserted.

"It's… something, alright." Skylor admitted, "Where to first?"

"Have you ever seen a camel?"

As it turned out, while Master Chen's island had contained a variety of exotic creatures, Skylor had in fact, never been near a camel before. So, of course, the spiky haired ninja was more than happy to change that.

"C'mon Skylor, I have a great idea." He informed her, dragging her down the pathway, at breakneck speed, dodging other people as they went.

"Could we maybe slow down a bit?" She panted.

"Sorry, no can do. We don't wanna be late for feeding time. You'll be missing out on a pretty cool opportunity if we do."

"Wait… What?"

They arrived at the exhibit just as the zookeeper began explaining procedures for meal time interaction.

"If you just hold out your hand like this," The zookeeper demonstrated, pressing some treats into their hands. Apparently Skylor was going to be getting up close and personal with the large mammal.

"Nice and steady, Brenda, here, probably won't spit on you."

"Probably." The redhead commented, bemused.

"Yeah, these are her favorite treats."

"What am I even doing right now?" She pondered, turning to Kai.

"Having fun. Duh."

"You won't be saying that if the camel spits on you." Skylor pointed out.

"The chances of that happening are like, super slim. In all the times I've been here before, it's never even come close to being a problem. And besides, I'll still look awesome, even if I do end up with spit in my hair." He insisted cockily.

"Whatever you say, fire boy." She said, finally following the zookeeper's instructions. Hand held out, she watched as the camel approached her. Luckily, Brenda was only interested in daintily consuming the offering of food that was being presented to her, and refrained from salivating on anyone. She nudged the redhead's shoulder playfully when she was finished, looking for more food.

"Sorry," Skylor told the creature, "That's all I got. Go bug Kai. He still has some."

"See? She's just a big softie…" The master of fire stated, letting the camel nibble on the treats he held.

"Yeah, kinda like someone else I know." She replied with an innocent smirk. He raised an eyebrow.

"No clue who that could be..."

"Course' not. Thank you for letting us participate in this. It was surprisingly fun." The girl commented to the zookeeper as they made their departure.

"Okay, you get to choose where we're going this time." Kai stated, linking arms with her.

"You sure you wanna trust me with that? I might make you visit your brethren the porcupines."

" First it was hedgehogs, and now this? Why does everyone always want to compare me to prickly animals?" He groaned in mock irritation, continuing to wander down the trail.

"Well, I mean, you could always restyle your hair?" She suggested.

"Never! I like it the way it is."

"Who am I to stand in your way, then? C'mon, the lions should be just up ahead." They walked in companionable silence, enjoying the nice weather and the distraction from their chaotic lives. Several hours were spent exploring the zoo. Kai showed her all the best places to stand in order to get the perfect view of the animals. Skylor's phone quickly filled with pictures. Good natured teasing was shot back any forth. The sun had begun to set by the time they'd seen everything there was to see. An afternoon well spent, for both of them.

________________________________________________________________"Hey Sky?" Kai called softly, shaking the sleeping redheads shoulder, "Skylor? We're here."

"Wuh?" She asked blearily, running at her eyes. The day's events had clearly wiped her out.

"We're just outside your apartment. You fell asleep pretty much as soon as I pulled out of the parking lot."

"Oh." She was home already?

"Yeah. But that's okay… I mean, we did do an awful lot of walking, and I know you were already tired before we even left Master Chen's, so…" He assured her.

"Hey, Kai?"

"Yeah?"

"Thanks. For today, I mean. It was… It was nice to get away for awhile. With you."

"It was" He agreed, wishing the moment could last longer.

"Let's try not to wait so long between visits next time, okay? I-I missed you…" The girl admitted. Next time?

"I missed you, too… I'll do my best to drop by more often." Promised the master of fire. Skylor shot him a weary grin.

"Well. Good. I, uh… I'll text you?"

"Sounds like a plan."

"Goodbye," She said, giving him a side hug. It only lasted for a second, but it was full of warmth.

"Bye. I… I hope things with your restaurant calm down soon…" Kai stated.

"Me too. Good luck with the tea business. Maybe I'll drop by sometime."

"I'd like that." Reluctantly climbing from the vehicle, Skylor gave one last wave before heading inside. Although it would end up being awhile before either of them were ready (or able) to commit to anything official, this day would always be locked in their memories as one of the best moments in the beginnings of their relationship. Their lives would be busy, and filled with danger, but, eventually, they would find their way. Almost as soon as the redhead had left, the master of fire's phone began to vibrate. How on earth did his sister have such perfect timing?

_______________________________________________________________

Nya: So, how was ur DATE with Skylor?!

Kai: #1, it wasn't even anything official. #2, how on earth did u know what I was up to? Stalker.

Nya: It wasn't even that hard to figure out. Ur so hopelessly in love that I couldn't help but notice.

Kai: What? U know that doesn't answer my question – right?

Nya: Fine. Green bean and I checked the tracking device on ur phone.

Nya: We got bored. And there's only ONE reason u'd visit the noodle place. It doesn't take a genius.

Kai: Invasion of privacy, much?

Nya: I call sibling rights.

Kai: Whatever, dorks.

Kai: And for the record, it went great.

Nya: ASDJDHFHSJA! Details?

Kai: Patience, sis. Tell u when I get back.

Nya: Better drive fast then. I'm waiting.

Kai: Kay. I'll make sure to completely ignore every speed limit posting I see.

Nya: Fine. Fair point. Don't get urself arrested. I'm not bailing u out.

Kai: Sure thing. Imma be home soon.

Nya: Love u.

Kai: love u 2.

[brightdrawings]

Breakfast and Catch-up (Theme: Love/Bonding)

It’s time for @stanuary week 1! Love/bonding. have some classic Fiddstan Set in the mystery Trio au!

(also on ao3!)

Stanley looked up from the stove in time to see Fiddleford rubbing the sleep from his eyes as he walked into the kitchen. The engineer gave a non-committal nod as he took his seat at the kitchen table. The smell of eggs filled the air and the sizzling of bacon made Fiddleford’s stomach grumble something fierce.

“Breakfast will be ready in a couple of minutes,” Stanley said. He flipped a pancake onto a plate next to the stove.

“Well it smells divine.” Fiddleford said. His sandy blond hair was a mess that he couldn't  be bothered to fix this early in the morning.

Stan reached for the coffee pot and poured out two steaming hot mugs. “How many sugars?” he asked.

“Two please.” Fiddleford rubbed the last grains of sleep from his eyes.

“Coming right up,” Stanley put in two spoons of sugar into the mug with gear pattern. He walked over to the stove and placed the mug next to a plate stacked high with pancakes, with a side of bacon and eggs. Stanley set the plate and mug in front of fiddleford. He pecked Fiddleford’s forehead before making his own breakfast.

“How’d you sleep Fiddlenerd?” Stanley asked. He took a seat opposite Fiddleford.

“Refreshing,” Fiddleford got to work at his food. “You really outdid yourself this time darling.”

Stanley beamed. He started up with his own meal. It had been quite a while since he was able to sit down and enjoy a meal without having to worry about some magical beast bursting through the window and declaring war against them for stepping on some ancient flower of ultimate power or something.

He had met fiddleford a little while before Ford had called Fiddleford over for some help with some interuniversal portal or something. With nothing better to do Stan agreed to come with. Firstly to help with heavy lifting that might come up, and secondly to stare in awe at his boyfriend’s work. However meeting his estranged twin upon arriving wasn’t what he had expected. If Fiddleford hadn’t stood his ground and forced both Pines twins to talk out their issues Stanley wasn’t sure what would he would have done.

“So how did you meet the nerd?” Stanley asked after a beat. He rested his head in his hand, his elbow sitting against the table.

“We’ve been dating for how long and you’re only asking how I met my boss and got my job now?” Fiddleford raised his eyebrow.

“We’ve been busy,” Stanley replied. “What with the whole ‘making up for ruining his chance at his dream school’ and that goblin attack.”

“Gremloblin,” Fiddleford corrected.

“Yeah, that. Now back to the question, how did you meet my brother?” Stanley pressed.

“If you must know, we were roommates in college.” Fiddleford said. He took a sip of his coffee, making sure not to meet Stan’s eye.

“Roommates eh? Did you two ‘study’ together? What did you ‘study’? Nerdomics? Klingon? “ Stanley waited for Fiddleford to be halfway through his gulp of coffee before making his next assumption. “Biology?”

Fiddleford spat out his coffee. “Stanley Pines! Just what in the lord’s name are you insinuating?”

“What? My brother studies fairies and trolls, he’s obviously have to study how bodies and stuff work.” Stanley blinked innocently. He’d have to clean up that coffee stain from the floor but the look on Fiddleford face was worth it.

“Right-right. Well, not necessarily. I didn’t study biology myself, but Stanford did need some help with his studies and assignments. And if’n I was able to help I would,” Fiddleford recalled. “And in turn he’d help me out with my engineering studies.”

“A bit of ‘I scratch your back you scratch mine?’” Stanley smirked.

“If you call staying up until 3 am for three nights in a row ‘scratching his back’ then yes.” Fiddleford rolled his eyes.

“I don’t know, that sounds pretty productive if you ask me.” Stan smirked.

“If you’re trying to ask if your brother and I were in a relationship you can just say it,” Fiddleford said flatly.

“Aw, but I wanted to tease you more,” Stanley pouted. He took a sip of his coffee.

“Your dancing around the bush was about as subtle as a baseball bat to the face,” Fiddleford said. “And It’s way too early to be dealing with any of that.” He took a very quick sip of his coffee. He didn’t want a repeat of earlier.

“Fine fine, so that's how you scratched his back, how’d he pay you back?” Stanley asked. “From what I’ve heard, your dorms were terrible in winter. Did you two find an ‘economical’ way to stay warm?”

“Ya got me once Stanley, it ain’t happening again.” Fiddleford said. “And let me answer your question with a question, do you ever wonder why your brother always wears long sleeved shirts?”

“Because he somehow thought that Carl Sagan was a Fashion pioneer instead of the nerd he really was?” Stanley asked.

“For someone who claims to enjoy having fun you sure do like to suck the fun out other people, you know that?” Fiddleford asked.

“Oh, I’m well aware.” Stanley smirked. “But because I’m nice I’ll take the bait. Why does Ford wear long sleeved shirts all the time?”

“I don’t feel like telling you anymore.” Fiddleford look away childishly.

“Oh c’mon, don’t be like that,” Stanley said. He walked over to Fiddleford’s side to coddle him. “You know I was just kidding, right?”

“Well i don’t want an inattentive audience when i’m telling my stories,” Fiddleford turned his head away and crossed his arms.

“Come on Fiddlesticks, I really mean it,” Stanley took the seat next to Fiddleford. “I promise I‘ll listen this time.” “Your words are as empty as your stomach, Stanley Pines,” Fiddleford said dramatically. He stared Stanley down, but was thrown off by his boyfriend’s grin. “What’s so funny, Mr. Heckler?”

“Empty as my stomach eh?” Stanley asked. He nodded to his empty plate of pancakes. “You sure about that one?”

“That doesn’t prove anything. You’d put the the bottomless hole we have outside to shame,” FIddleford said.

“It’s a gift,” Stanley beamed.

“At least I don’t have to worry about throwing away food scraps anymore,” Fiddleford said.

“So, you were going to tell me a story about my brother hiding something with shirts?” Stan asked. “I’m not sure if I’m willing to tell you.” Fiddleford smirked.

“Hmm, maybe I could make it worth your while?” Stanley asked.

“Stanley, are you suggesting a bribe?” Fiddleford asked in mock shock.

“I think I might have something to fit the bill,” Stanley grinned. He leaned forward and kissed Fiddleford’s cheek. The engineer giggled as the scruff on Stan’s chin tickled him.

“You were right.” Fiddleford said. He scooted his chair closer so that he could lean against stan’s chest. “That definitely fit the bill.”

“So can I hear the story or not?” Stanley asked after a beat. Fiddleford gotten half way through his pancakes and hadn’t said a word.

Fiddleford took another bite of his pancakes.

“What are you waiting for a kiss on the cheek?” Stan asked.

“Another one wouldn’t hurt,” Fiddleford grinned.

“You set me up,” Stan frowned.

“And they said it’s impossible to out-con a conman,” Fiddleford smirked. Stanley rolled his eyes before kissing fiddleford’s cheek.

“Happy?”

“Very,” Fiddleford grinned.

Fiddleford finished off his breakfast before diving into his tale.

“I was low on parts for my engineering major, and my deadline was breathing down my back,” he began. “Your brother had helped me test out the prototypes but those… didn’t turn out too well.”

“Did they explode?” Stanley asked.

“Not in any way that would be entertaining. Half the time they just started to smoke and we’d have to get the fire extinguisher.” Fiddleford said. “Anyway, we got wind that the science department were planning on throwing out some equipment. And that stuff just happened to have the parts I needed. So Stanford and I got suited up, you should have seen your brother, he got a black sweater and beanie for the occasion.”

“You’re saying that as if you didn’t have a mask and a striped black and white shirt as well.” Stanley accused.

“I thought it would have been appropriate to dress to fit the occasion,” Fiddleford said. “As I was saying, we made our way to the science building in the dead of night.  It was so dark we couldn’t see our hands in front of our faces. Stanford was saying something about anti-theft lights that made everything hard to see. Turns out we were just in the shadow of the building.” “Ha! He would think that.” Stanley said smugly.

“Well we walked into the building.” Fiddleford said.

“You just walked in? No security? No security guards? No cameras?” Stan asked.

“Our college advertised ‘roach free dormitories’.” Fiddleford scowled. “This was granted by handing out a free can of insect spray on our first day.”

“Sounds like my kind of place.” Stanley smirked.

“Let’s just say they probably didn’t have the budget for any kind of serious security detail.” FIddleford said. “A I was saying, we walked in, no problem. In fact the equipment was right by the door in the hallway.”

“Sounds too convenient,” Stanley said.

“It was a stroke of luck!” Fiddleford said, pretending that he hadn’t heard Stan’s comment. “But lo and behold the night guard was on his patrol.”

“I thought you said there weren’t any guards,” Stan squinted.

“To be fair, in hindsight they were probably a janitor. But I’m the storyteller here and I decide the roles.” Fiddleford resumed. “Stanford was panicking but didn’t know squat about what parts I needed, so I had him to hold the flashlight for me while I quickly pulled the equipment apart for what I needed. And just as I got the last part free we heard the nightguard walking close by. So using our brilliant minds we dove behind the equipment just in time to avoid their spotlight.”

“Stanford was that daring? Now I wish I was there to see that.” Stanley smirked.

“Just as we heard them walked past; we made our way to sneak past the nightguard. Unfortunately Stanford, the old butterfingers that he was, dropped his flashlight.” He waved his arms as he spoke. “And to make things worse, the parts in my bag had leaked oil on to the floor. His flashlight cracked on the ground and was covered in oil. And when he turned it back on KABLOOEY! It blew up, setting his black sweater on fire and burning his arms terribly.”

“Ha! That’s rich.” Stanley wiped a tear from his eye while slamming his hand on the table. “Fidds you’re a riot,” he said between chuckles.

“And he’s been hiding his arms in shame ever since,” Fiddleford said.

After he finally caught his breath Stanley clapped Fiddleford on the shoulder. “Fidds, that was amazing. But one problem.”

“What’s that?” Fiddleford asked.

“We both saw Stanford with his sleeves rolled up,” Stanley said. “And if memory served we both teased him for having such smooth arms that pixies could use them as a slide.”

“Well I never said it was a true story,” Fiddleford pouted.

The tipped Stanley over the edge. He erupted into laughter once more. He kicked the ground and slammed his fist on to the table, knocking the utensils around in his hysterics. His barking laugh filled the air, Fiddleford himself couldn’t stop himself from joining in. And in a few short minutes the pair had fallen off their seats.

“That was a good laugh.” Stanley said.

“I needed that,” Fiddleford coughed. He wiped away a tear.

“My little Fiddlesticks out conned me. Twice! I’m so proud.” Stanley said. He placed his hand on his heart. “I think that deserves a reward.”

“My my, what have you got in mind?” Fiddleford smirked. He crawled over so that he was sitting on Stan’s lap.

“There’s that sci-fi flick that came out a while ago. We could go check out together,” Stanley offered.

“I thought you hated sci-fi,” Fiddleford said.

“It’s also a horror flick. I’ll get to have you cuddle up to me when the big monster jumps out,” Stanley said with a smirk.

“After the hunts that Stanford’s had us go through? I doubt some goo-covered rubber costume will get my goat,” Fiddleford said.

“Wanna bet?” Stanley asked.

“Who ever screams first has to be the winner dinner,” Fiddleford declared. He offered his hand to Stan.

“You’re on McGucket,” Stanley shook fiddleford’s hand. “I hope you’re not too attached to your wallet.”

“We’ll See Stanley, we’ll see,” Fiddleford smiled.

[unpopularkpop-opinions]

[!] we are hiring! 2 new admins

Hey guys! I hope the week has been treating you all nicely. I mentioned a few posts back that we were going to be hiring, so here we are! However, I want to first take the time to thank our two departing admins. 

First, Abby (wonhowcute) who in the short amount of time that she was a part of this blog was able to accomplish so much and improve. It’s been so awesome getting to know you and working with you. Also, this is more personal, but I do enjoy your blog haha there’s a lot of fun stuff on there. Thank you so much for all that you’ve done on this blog! I really do wish you the best of luck, but you don’t need that since you’re more than capable of greatness :-) 

Second, Gia (jinsouries) who actually has been on the blog for over a year now! It’s crazy how fast time flies by. Anyways, it’s been a joy having you on the blog and getting to know you. I know sometimes it was a lot, but I appreciate you doing the best you could. I’m also thankful that you indirectly got me into LOONA and JinSoul haha I checked them out after seeing you dedicated most of your blog to them. I also wish you the best in life and hope it treats you well :^)

The best way to run the blog is to have at least six admins, so we’re hiring! As excited as we are to be requiting new admins, please make sure you fit the following requirements so we can run the blog as smoothly as possible.

1. You need to have a program to make the posts in. We would prefer Photoshop, as that is the program most of the admins use to make posts, but it is fine if you prefer something else, just as long as the posts are made correctly and use the fonts Amertype Md Bt Medium and Bradley Hand ITC. If you need help finding these fonts, let me know in the message, and I’d be more than happy to provide places you can download them.

2. You need to be able to make at least 20 posts per week. You will turn in 10 on Wednesday or Thursday and the remaining 10 on Sunday. It usually takes me half an hour max. to make 10 opinions. (I also “multitask” with doing other things, so if you’re focused unlike I am, it shouldn’t take you as long.) Since the process does take time, please only apply if you long-term have the time to make opinions.

3. You need to be ACTIVE. It’s really important you check your messages at least once a day. We use KakaoTalk since it’s more direct, but if you are not able to get KakaoTalk, Tumblr messages are fine. If you can’t meet a deadline, I would rather you tell me than having to wait with no knowledge of when the posts will be made. Of course, multiple misses of the deadline will have some consequences.

4. Your English skills need to be decent. You’ll be correcting opinions, so make sure you have the skills to make as little mistakes as possible! The main admins are the final editors, but don’t always rely on us!

5. You need TIME. (If you’ve read this whole post, please include the word “oxymercuration” in your initial message to me!) If you are extremely dedicated to multiple things and busy with whatever, this position isn’t for you. If you fall behind, it’s difficult to get back up, and I would rather someone who has time take this position. Make sure you know you are free long-time!

I know it can be overwhelming to see all these requirements and think, “Yikes! That’s too much.” I know I felt super nervous when I first joined, but we don’t expect you to be perfect! We understand your nervousness, as we were once in your spot.

So, if you’re still interested in becoming an admin, well first wow kudos to you for taking the first big step! Please send me an ASK, not an instant message, to my personal Tumblr, paperjewels. If it’s not too much, tell me some cool stuff about yourself, you know maybe your bias group or why you want to be an admin, cool stuff (it’s not for anything - it’s just fun getting to know fellow K-pop fans and people in general). After you send me an ask, I’ll give you two opinions you’ll need to turn into posts and also some general guidelines (e.g. post size, text size, etc.). Anything I don’t mention, you need to make your best judgement based off of our posts! If you have any questions, include it in your ask or send me a quick instant message!

You may apply anytime from now, November 17th @ 3 PM EST

                                                                                      @ 8 PM UTC

                                                                                      @ 12 PM PST

to November 25th @ 3 AM EST

                                @ 8 AM UTC

                                @ 12 AM PST We will decide on two people to become our new trainee admins on December 1st EDT (or earlier if we decide quickly!) and message the newly hired admins on the same day. Good luck to all who decide to apply!