#with an angsty-crack aftermath

[lowkeyclueless5137]

Doors au! Doors au!

So... It's a funny story...

My sis is a roblox doors fan... So she would put on the TV some doors gameplay from roblox streamers.

One in particular, an April fools one, cracked me up, because it was just so hilarious.

And also because of the HoLy HaNd GrEnAdE... :'3

So one crack thought made another one and here we are... :'3

For those who didn't catch on what exactly I am meaning: Roblox is a platform on which people can play or even make/develop games. There are many genres and types of games. Now, Doors is a horror game in which you, the player, navigate a hotel who has 100 doors. This hotel houses many dangerous entities and secrets. The point of the game is to reach Door 100 and get into the elevator.

Also, to help you out... I searched for a YouTube video which explains the entities far better than me. Mind you, there will be jumpscares (it's a horror game after all)

Here is the video

Also check this video out, since it's funny.

Why did I give you a video about the entities?

Bc it will be very relevant to the au itself :3

Yes... It's a crack au... :'3

I won't keep this intro much... Let's just move on with it!

For starters! Background!

In here we will have a bit of a change of pace from my usual plot format.

Yes, people... There will be a story relevant Yuu... Shocker, I know... U-U

In here, Yuu came in early! One year before our cannon storyline. Not being of age to attend school, nor them actually having magic... Crowley passed them for a few days in Ramshackle before Trein came with the whole procedure to house Yuu until they have to leave.

Now Yuu is a helper for the teachers. Like they get some papers to them, help with grading tests or small tasks around school. Trein always stepped his foot down when Crowley started to be way too comfy with the handyman idea.

So Yuu had a very decent life now with Trein as their guardian. Lucius was a bit salty at first, but he came around the idea of the new child in the family. Even Trein's daughters loved Yuu like their own.

The thing was: this Yuu was way too curious for their own good.

Yuu explored all of Ramshackle, befriended the ghosts from there and also knew every nook and cranny of the school.

So when they returned to NRC earlier this summer holiday because of Trein needing to do some official paperwork and arrangements, Yuu's only warnings were: don't put yourself in danger, don't go into the dorms and don't get off the school grounds.

But does Yuu listen? Yeah... When it's Trein who says it...

But Crowley said it this time (Trein went to pick up some documents to sign them). So Yuu took it with A LOT of salt.

So what does Yuu do? Explore around the border of the school grounds.

That's when they stumble upon an odd looking mirror. Being the curious teen they were, Yuu goes to it to touch it and maybe bring it home, since it looks like with a bit of a wash, it could be a pretty mirror.

Unfortunately, that's a wrong move, since the mirror teleported them in an elevator.

And before them, 6 people appeared. They all had each a faith glow and we're floating as their bodies were a bit transparent.

They present themselves as the guiding lights. The smallest of them all, a boy with his hair resembling a flame, explained that currently Yuu got blocked in the 'Hotel of Horrors'. A place where malicious entities were created and contained.

The orange-red guiding light, Ace, makes the introductions. The dark blue one was Deuce, the yellow one was Jack, the purple one was Epel, Sebek was the green one and the last one was Ortho, the one who explained it.

Jack explained that they are young mages, who got trapped in here. Unfortunately, they cannot go further than the first room, so Yuu must choose one of them to get tied to and help them out throughout surviving the 100 Doors of this place.

Deuce shyly brings out that each of them can offer to you a perk, but only if Yuu chooses them to get tied to.

Ace could grant you more money. He insisted that later on, they will need it.

Deuce can open doors in advance. Unlike the other guiding lights, Deuce could interact with the doors and open them of they don't have a lock.

Jack can summon a candle. There's only one candle in the whole building besides the one he summons. The candle is very important in the greenhouse.

Epel can find you more vitamins and healing items. If Yuu was clumsy, then Epel was the best for keeping them alive.

Sebek would warn in advance of entities. What candle? What flickers? Sebek would warn you, sometimes even push you in hiding spots.

Ortho just gives you a holy hand grenade... That's it... He also has a pipe bomb, but Shhh...

Depending on the guiding light you choose, you get their perks.

:3

After Yuu (you, readers), makes their choice, the elevator would stop. (and so would that noice music :/)

And Yuu would be introduced to the lobby of the hotel. In there, there are 3 persons. One was sleeping on a couch and another one was at the reception desk, reading what Yuu came to assume was a manga. The 3rd person seemed to notice them first.

Now depending on which guiding light you have first... There are a few outcomes:

If you choose Ace or Deuce, the 3rd entity introduces himself as Trey. He looks fairly normal if you count off the vines that keep peeking out of his clothes. Trey would stick around with you and actually provide you with healing food, item which only Trey can provide.

If you have Sebek, he would immediately go and wake up the entity that sleeps on the couch, calling him Silver. Silver looks like a porcelain doll in terms of beauty, although it seems like his skin shines in light almost like metal. Silver would give you either money or even a flashlight, depending on what he finds.

If you choose Jack, Ortho or Epel: Nothing in particular happens. You can still talk to Trey or Silver, but Trey won't join you, only give you a bit of healing food. Silver would just keep napping.

The thing that happens in this room is that you get introduced to Idia. He has the same fire hair as Ortho, but he wears a big hoodie, covering his whole body. The guiding light says he has to come with you as he can store in his hair literally anything you need. Before leaving, Idia grabs the key that opens the lock for the first door. He says that many perished and that he doesn't have big expectations. Just don't die in a dumb way. :'3

The guiding light also mentions that Idia also has items on him from others who perished and entrusted him with them. Although if you don't have ortho as your guiding light, Idia might be reluctant to let you access those. He says you can only access them after you pass the library and prove you might not be that useless.

If you had ortho as your guiding light, Idia would agree more easily to offer you one of the few... More easy to grab items. Doesn't mean it's not useful tho...

So this is how Yuu starts their small adventure. First few rooms were easy enough. Like go, open doors. Sometimes you find money or an item. Sometimes you have to search for a key.

But when the lights started to flicker, that was your sign to hide in a nearby closet. No one gave to Yuu any kind of explanation beforehand. Only threw them in the closet and waited.

And sure af something passed through. It was unmistakably some kind of floating face and a lot of dark smoke before the lights were broken and the whole room was engulfed in darkness.

At first, if you had Sebek, he would get you out of the closet without hurting you. But if you had any other guiding light, you would meet Hide, who throws you out of the closet AND hurts you.

After that, your guiding light tells you that it was Rush, one of the malicious entities that would kill you the second it gets to you.

The other entity Yuu meets it's Eyes. At first they looked at it and, of course, got hurt. Idia had to guide them through the room. Thankfully eyes just appears and dissappears in random rooms.

And things get a bit less scary for Yuu. Some more Rush, a bit of Eyes. Sometimes Timothy appears in drawers. Some closets are actually occupied by a wierd looking floaty face. Yuu sure af had a field trip with that one.

A few other entities they meet on the way do actually help Yuu out a bit. Or ignore them because we aren't cool enough. :'3

Ruggie is a hyena Beastman, although he seemed to always pop out from under tables to steal leftover money. He is a bit greedy, but if you give him some of your money, he would actually help you in a few locked rooms by sparing you from searching for keys. If you meet him properly, you would notice the fact that he looks far more beastly than Jack or any other Beastman.

You can also meet Cater and Vil in the painting rooms.

Cater can also be found chatting with other peaceful entities in random rooms which have paintings. He is also peaceful and a nice chat overall. If you are nice to him, he would tell you to not be worried about some eyes on the wall, unless they are covered in black gloop and oozing through the cracks. But if you anger him, Cater can trap you in a painting and destroy it, just to have you killed. His skin does look like it's made of paint and sometimes it drips off, leaving trails of where he once passed by.

Vil on the other hand, can solely be found in the mismatched paintings room. He usually doesn't mind you, but if you do have Epel or Jack as your guiding light, he would give you some vitamins or a healing item. Yet if you anger him, he would hurt you with poison that slows you down.

Another entity you might meet is around door 30, when eyes keep appearing on the walls. Idia might get uncomfortable, but the guiding light assures that it's just Riddle.

If you do compliment him or are overall nice to the ones around, Riddle might respond to it by burning the wrong doors's plate and keeping you away from a nasty Duke attack. But if you anger him, he would burn the right door. And while this unlocks it lock or not, it also keeps you in the room for a while and prone to other malicious entities to attack.

But also when Riddle shows his presence, it also means Seek is nearby as well. A few rooms after seeing the first eye on the wall that is Riddle's, Seek would show signs that it's nearby as well. The guiding light would prompt you to use vitamins to outrun Seek, as now Yuu would come face to face with a looooong hall in which Seek is bound to chase you around and even kill you if he grabs you.

That's also when Trey can't go anymore if you convinced him to join you. He isn't a good runner. His left leg is actually broken. And he does show it. It's a fake leg made out of plants and vines. His other leg was a normal one tho.

And the Seek chase commences!

In here, Deuce would have been the perfect choice, but also Ace would grab things off the tables such as money or even items. Epel is also a good choice since he would summon for you extra vitamins if you ran out of it.

After Seek's chase. Idia warns that it's not the only time Yuu will meet this entity. There are 2 long halls in this hotel. Seek can switch in between them so if Yuu managed to pass this one, then Seek would wait for them at the next one.

After that, things seem like normal up until room 49, which looks like a library reception. In there, there are 2 entities.

The first one is a playful bat Fae named Lilia. He likes to jumpscare people, although he doesn't hurt them.

Unless you hurt silver.

Remember in the lobby that you could wake up Silver? There is a chance that he might actually fall off and get hurt, by cracking the porcelain body. If that happens, you cannot proceed to door 50 because Lilia gives you an insta-kill.

The other entity is Malleus. Now if you had Sebek as your guiding light, you can easily convince Malleus to come along you for the rest of the journey. But if you don't have Sebek, Malleus would mention that he really wanted a book about gargoyles from the library. If you get it for him, he will wait after the library and join you afterwards.

And here comes the library! With Figure!

The guiding light tells Yuu that Figure is blind, therefore it's better to silently crouch and get the right books and the lock sheet that is on the table in there.

There is also a humanoid entity above the bookshelfs. You could only spot specks of some kind of feathers and maybe some green beady eyes that look over you with great interest.

Idia says that he never liked Rook, but he always had his arrows shot in the right books. He is very hard to anger, but if you are foolish enough to manage, Rook would shot you with a few arrows, then leave you to perish to Figure. He is one of the cruelest entities in there as Idia dubbed it.

But even with that looming threat... Yuu manages to get out of the library. Idia congratulates them and even offers to give out an item that previous people who perished have entrusted him with.

And that's when Yuu sees what's under the hoodie. Idia opens it to show that his ribs were out, covering his torso and that more bone ribs were around his stomach aera, forming a circle through Wich Idia could stuck his hand in and pull out an item. When that happens, a small portal opens up. Idia says that Yuu is a human that wasn't trapped or belonging in the hotel. Therefore their imprint on items prevents them from preserving in their place once they die.

Idia also explains that he is a keeper, but only with items that are entrusted to him permanently. But once out, if used or not given back to Idia, he cannot recover them. This is why he was so skeptical.

After that, if you do get Malleus's gargoyle book or you already had Sebek as your guiding light, Malleus would join you. He seems very close to Idia.

And for now, the 52nd room hosted Jeff's shop! A safe room in Which 5 entities were found: Jeff, the shop keeper(he piles tip money to go to college :3), El Goblino, a nice red goblin, Bob the skeleton and Kalim with Jamil.

While Jamil was a snake person, always coiled up on a couch, he could offer you a groundbreaking deal: a rare item such as crucifix or a skeleton key. The catch is, you must give him either a Lockpick or vitamins. He doesn't take money.

Kalim on the other hand, had melted gold on him. He is kind and chatty. If you give Jeff some tips, Kalim would praise you and give you an important fact about a random twst Boi entity. The facts can vary from harmless things, funny stories or some morbid things that he thinks are 'happy accidents'.

But if you are mean, there would be some signs that tell you 'stop it, it's dumb'. Jamil would try and make you leave. And the lights would flicker.

But if you do ignore these signs as well... Then buddy... I'm afraid Kalim is gonna give you the insta-kill. (he is the only one out of the 2nd years who can give an insta-kill)

After the shop room, Malleus proves his worth by lifting up things. Sometimes he lights up dark rooms as well. He isn't a fan of Screech so he would swat it off, unless his hands are occupied by carrying something heavy.

Before the 2nd Seek chase, Yuu can't meet other new entities, except for Ambush. Cue ping-pong with Yuu in between Idia and a closet. :'3

But after the 2nd Seek chase, we reach the greenhouse! :D

Before the greenhouse, there is the small courtyard. In there, Yuu can access a small pond in which 2 residents can interact with Yuu.

Jade, the one who usually gets out to greet them... He is a quite shady entity. He can also offer an item he found around, for a quite high price. Unless you really are desperate, the deal is way too much of a scam. To avoid the scam, you can find prior to this corridor a mushroom in a pot. If you give Jade that, he would give the item for free and also call out his brother, Floyd.

Floyd ofc wouldn't like Yuu at first bc they gave Jade a 'nasty mushroom'. But he would give out some very important information about other entities. You only have to guess who has the sea life nickname. :'3

Floyd also mentions that 'Sea lion doesn't like that much sea slug' or that 'goldfishie is very hard to be found. He doesn't let just anybody to see his face.'. He can also say 'Azul has a very pretty voice. Although it's hard to say from where it comes if he hides.'. Floyd can also be convinced to actually help you, but he only rips open a few doors before he spots a certain room and stops. That's when he goes back.

Those are one of the most important pieces of information, as in a pot next to the pond, Yuu finds Azul.

Now if you had Malleus with you, now he could carry the pot Azul is in. He would accept to come with you only if you give him a pretty high sum of money.

So now Malleus cannot do anything but carry Azul after Yuu. Idia couldn't carry the pot with Azul, since he is too weak for that. :'3

Through the greenhouse, you can meet Leona. Leona could be a bit hard to convince on helping you if you had Malleus with you. But if Jack is your guiding light, then Leona 100% would help you out(with or without Malleus with you), by killing off Snare and turning it into sand. Unless Floyd ripped open the doors, Leona can turn their locks into sand also, sparing you of searching for the key.

But if you did have Floyd's help and you reach the door that he didn't open, it means you must also have unknowingly encountered eyes on the walls. Due to darkness concealing them, it's hard to spot them.

So if you had Floyd's help, you would know he was shooed off from breaking this door.

Because in that room, Riddle himself was hiding.

If you do acknowledge his presence, but don't do anything to him, he might help you out by fixing your candle. But if you do anger him, which is easy to do, he might lit on fire the room and deal a great ammount of damage to the room and also you.

But once you do pass the greenhouse, you reach the maintance room. Door 100 is opened by a lever. Idia says that this room is where all perished. He doesn't have much hope left as he knows this is the impossible one. The floor is made out of metal, which makes even crouching to be louder.

Now if you do open beforehand the electrical room and had Azul with you, you can tell Malleus to place the pot in there. After that, Malleus would have to leave as well. He cannot do anything of help anymore.

Once you pull the lever, you trigger the final obstacle: Figure... Again...

Except that this time, Idia runs off to the command room while you had to escape Figure's small chase and find the 10 missing pieces of the electric panel.

If you had Azul, once Idia reaches the control room, Azul would start to sing and therefore confuse Figure, allowing you to be more stealthy.

The shitty thing is that once you find 2-3 pieces, you have to return to the control room and give them to Idia so he could install them. After all 10 pieces are installed, Idia would power up the electricity, getting figure to be burned and flee through the window.

Idia would also help Yuu out with getting power to the elevator. Now if ortho was your guiding light, he would also help out, making it faster to unlock the elevator.

But Figure returns and is off to chase Yuu down, this time with Idia as well. Now there is a last second resort:

Idia would trip at one point and Figure would also be close.

If you would choose to help him out and get in the elevator, Idia would get out a crucifix and hold down figure enough for both of you to escape.

But if you let Idia to perish and reach the elevator, then you would anger the guiding light, no matter which one you choose, who in response would kill you before you can get the elevator working.

On the first scenario tho, Yuu escapes with Idia and the guiding light. Figure attempts to destroy the elevator in order to get to them, but it seems to have slammed into a portal, which throws only Yuu and Idia out, through that mirror that Yuu initially fell through.

And after that, Idia starts to cry. Not of sadness, but because he was happy. THEY were free now thanks to Yuu.

Before the 'they' question can be answered, Idia gives to Yuu a gift of his gratitude: a magestone that is meant to help Yuu light a way to wherever they wish to go. It won't need any magic to be activated, just the desire is enough.

And that's when from Idia's back, the other entities that helped Yuu along the way get out. Idia was indeed a keeper. If he was out, so were the cursed entities.

This is why they reluctantly helped Yuu. They wanted to use them for their freedom, but many perished before Yuu, so it was understandable that after years of people perishing, even in groups, they would lose hope.

In rage tho... Malleus is the one who destroyed that mirror which got all of them trapped in there.

Now imagine Crowley losing his shit when the magicless hooman returns a few hours after they went on exploring through the campus with 22 entities that all were apparently mages who went missing. There were ones who were simple people like Ace and Ruggie... Or some famous ones like Malleus and Kalim.

Trein gets to nag Yuu because 'How could you get in so much trouble! I almost had a heart attack because you dissappeared!'.

But in the end, because of all the needed papers and also the need to contact the families of the missing mages, Crowley 'oh so generously' allowed our boys to stay in Ramshackle and attend courses as students of NRC.

Some went missing for years, the last one to go missing being actually Deuce, 2 years ago.

So for now, Trein seemed very skepticall of Crowley, so he got Crewel and Vargas on board with the contacting families thing.

So by using super op Fae magic(courtesy of Malleus), Ramshackle was renovated into a new dorm in which the boys would stay. Yuu was in charge of these chaotic bois, deemed Dormhead.

And that would be for now. Yuu has to take care of 22 entities, each with their own nitpicks and wants.

There were the ones who took classes from the dorm, such as Riddle and Idia.

There were also the ones who were hard to break out of habits. The guiding lights especially. Epel just hands vitamins, Jack would give a candle to students who went to the greenhouses, Ace would find money, Deuce would open random doors, Sebek would scream almost 24/7 and Ortho would just hand grenades or pipe bombs to students who were nice to him. :'3

People like Ruggie or Rook would be the ones who would tamper with other students, but since the 'no, you can't kill people because they annoy you to no ends', the majority of 3rd years and Kalim were rendered to just punishing the annoying students by fighting them or giving a jumpscare. :v

There is also the octatrio, who had to take the leg potion. First weeks were absolute chaos. Ramshackle was full of screaming that passer by students thought some kind of horror spree was going on.

But meanwhile, Yuu is just done with all the shenanigans. Because they freed all of them, all of the boys were held accountable. Idia a bit less because of his gift. So Yuu imposed themselves as the authoritary figure that all of them must listen to until the end of the school year.

Cue adventures of 22 entities and a tired af magicless hooman. :3

And before you ask... Yes... Yuu tried to go to their home world, but the stone Idia gave them didn't recognise the place, much like the dark mirror. But it seemed to stir a somewhat possible path, so until it will finally give to Yuu the full path, they had to wait.

And that would be all... :3

There would be lots of fun mechanics and some crack scenarios not just in the hotel, but also in the NRC Aftermath.

As well as a dose of angst... :'3

So that would be all for now! What are your thoughts on this one? I intentionally left some miseries unexplained just to see how y'all will interpret it. :3c

Until next time! Buh bye!

[kazumist]

HOW YOU GET THE GIRL .ᐟ ( a scaramouche x gn!reader smau )

synopsis: breaking up with kuni was one of your biggest regrets yet (however, you'll never actually admit that to anyone). but was it really a wise decision to keep in touch with him even after you broke his (and your) heart?

or in which you and scaramouche are exes but you both stayed in the same friend group—which makes things extremely chaotic.

started on: 10/09/23 | ended on: 01/09/24

genres: college au, exes to lovers trope, crack (an attempt of comedy, really), fluff, angst (mandatory for this trope honestly), profanities + kys jokes, other ships are most likely implied, socmeds with narrations !!

note: inaccurate college depictions for some courses erm. (🖋️) means the ep has narrations

taglist: closed!

playlist: first half is full of angsty songs mb :,)

FEATURING: scara's caretakers

♡ EPISODE 1: never have i ever

♡ EPISODE 2: jealous, kuni?

♡ EPISODE 3: real talk

♡ EPISODE 4: i miss you, i'm sorry

♡ EPISODE 5: emergency contact (🖋️)

♡ EPISODE 6: i insisted

♡ EPISODE 7: you did well

♡ EPISODE 8: shut up and get up

♡ EPISODE 9: enjoy the date, fuckers! (🖋️)

♡ EPISODE 10: maybe, just maybe

♡ EPISODE 11: kuni and his 3 rules (🖋️)

♡ EPISODE 12: kazuha, the barbie nerd!

♡ EPISODE 13: ghosting tendencies

♡ EPISODE 14: i love you to the bone (🖋️)

♡ EPISODE 15: get your shit together

♡ EPISODE 16: i can't heal overnight

♡ EPISODE 17: what love did to me (🖋️)

♡ EPISODE 18: kiss me before i go? (🖋️)

♡ EPISODE 19: afterglow and daylight (🖋️)

♡ EPISODE 20: the aftermath

♡ EPISODE 21: happy for you, happy for us

♡ EPISODE 22: forever and always

EXTRAS & MISCELLANEOUS

kuni's note (ep 7)

01: only for me to know

[barbiesmuse]

୨୧ TOLERATE IT.

ִֶָ 𓂃⊹ ִֶָsimon riley + fem!reader

summary: in which you decide to meet up with simon, and to your dismay things happen between the two of you. but in the end, he still left. link to part one!

tags: angst, talk of parental issues, arguing-ish, slight fluff, delena puts some sense into simon, and reader is a pushover!!

head barbies announcements: hi barbie!! this is a lot more angsty and slightly sexual so minors dni! there will be one more part of this, but other than that enjoy!! do something kind today! peace and love!

“I miss you, love.” He missed you? You scoffed and ran a hand down your face. You wanted to ignore it, act like you never saw it. You had a new life. Simon wasn't a part of that new life. You promised yourself a long time ago that it would stay that way. You didn't want to know why he left. You want to forget him completely. But you couldn't. You knew that there would always be a part of you tied to him. Simon squeezed Delena's hand, she wasn't one to be impatient. She was gentle with Simon. She had seen the aftermath of what his father had done to him. It was rough. “Del, what if she doesn't respond,” Simon says, his eyes squeezed shut. He tries to ignore the feeling in his stomach. He felt like a nervous schoolboy texting his crush. Delena simply doesn't respond. She loved her godson to pieces but, she didn't tolerate incompetence. Simon looked up at her, waiting for an answer. Instead of answering, she shot him a tight-lipped grin.

You didn't want to respond, but there was a small part of you that felt like you should. He brought out something good in you. You always saw yourself as deeply flawed, not good enough, too hostile. Simon saw you as a phoenix. Constantly getting back up again, rising from the ashes. Your hands trembled as you picked your phone up, you had made up your mind. You were going to respond. Simon's eyes went from soft to offended in a matter of seconds. He knew what Delena was thinking, and he didn't like it one bit. Simon scoffed and took a sip of the large bottle of Disaronno that sat by his side. Delena grunted in disapproval and snatched the bottle from his hand. Simon wasn't himself anymore when Delena looked into his eyes she saw his father. That was her biggest fear. “Simon. If she doesn't respond you have no right to be angry with her. You left without any explanation. That girl deserved the world, and you could've given it to her. Yet you decided to let your trauma get in the way of something great, for the both of you.” Delena says, she stands up the bottle of alcohol still in her hand. Simon's eyes turn to his cracked phone, his lips curling into a soft smile. He picks up his phone and studies the text. It was simple, too simple for him. He wanted more, but he was never satisfied. Simon Riley could have the entire world in his hands and still be unsatisfied. He lifted his phone and showed Delena, he made sure the shards of glass didn't cut her hand. No matter how angry he was, he was gentle with the people he cared most about.

“I'll always miss you, Si.” You responded. It was simple, but it held weight. You would've done anything for him. The two of you were toxic and the both of you knew it. The toxicity was like a drug. Once you're addicted, you can't stop. No matter how long you're clean, a part of you will always long for that drug. There was a point in time when Simon angered you severely. You had held onto it like a grudge. He would make fun of you in front of his friends and leave you to do all the work around the house, but what hurt the most? He acted as if your love for him was simply a burden. Yet you tolerated it. Delena forced a smile. Thankfully, Simon couldn't see the hidden displeasure on her face. She had no problem with you. However, she did have a problem with Simon hurting you. “She misses me, Del,” Simon said with a genuine smile. His heart was beating again, he was slowly becoming the man he was. Delena's hands tightened around the bottle of alcohol, her sharp red nails digging into her palm. “You two should talk, maybe meet up. Then you can apologize.” Delena says with a smile. Yet it fades as he shakes his head. “She can't know why I left Delena, she'll think I'm a coward,” Simon says as he stands up. He needed to see you. He needs to make things right, you were his everything. Without you, he was an empty shell of a man. Delena simply shakes her head and walks away. She was getting a headache and did not have time for him. Simon grabs his broken phone in his hands and sighs. His breathing was slow and heavy, almost as if he didn't want to. Simon.

“Meet me at the café, please baby.”

Simon was one thing for sure, a master manipulator. He knew the buttons to push and when to push them. He knew you were vulnerable right now. He knew you craved his touch. The smell of cigarettes and amaretto still lingered in your house. His side of the bed still smelled like his forest body wash. He lingered. You hated it.

“Yes. Be there at six.”

talia talks: this was kinda a filler i guess? the second half of this fic will be out tomorrow morning if uni doesn't kick my ass!

[chrollohearttags]

reverb • chapter eleven

synopsis: eren and (y/n) finally meet again after weeks apart, only to find themselves engaged in a weekend full of passionate love making. In the midst of their steamy rendezvous, EJ poses a question that not only leaves the shocked (y/n) stunned but himself as well..asking if she’d like to go out with him. Not certain of how things will pan out if they decide to date, (y/n) is hesitant but then recalls a conversation she’d had with her uncle just days prior. What will her answer be? Meanwhile, the aftermath of Armin’s annual party is revealed when he and Niesha’s game of cat and mouse comes to a boiling head. Things only get worse when his affluent, billionaire parents invite him to dinner to discuss an important family matter. The carefree playboy is given news that will force him to make the hardest decision he’ll ever have to face.

word count: 9.5K

content + themes: sexual themes, fluff, romance, mentions of tarot, spirituality and light work, violence, mentions of gang activity and guns, drug mentions, bits of angst, more flashbacks of (y/n)’s past, mentions of abuse, comedy + humor, crack, drama, choking but it turns sexual idk how to describe it, sorry, toxic, TOXIC behaviors I do not condone, angsty at the end

“Whatever choice you make, son. I support and always be proud..I won’t be upset with you no matter what but just make sure that it’s one you can live with.”

📝: thank you guys so much for sticking around and supporting this story! I’m so happy when you guys send thoughtful comments and feedback, asks, etc. it makes my entire day and gives me so much motivation. I know y’all are probably sick of the cliffhangers but trust, there’s a reason! 😭 anyways, I hope you like the story. Reblogs, comments, etc are very appreciated!! Also, I like to make the reader’s backstory as vivid as possible. Although you may not resonate with it personally, it is important to the story itself. So keep that in mind when reading, please.

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“Wh-what?..wait, EJ..what are you saying?”

“..Thought I made myself pretty clear..I want to go on a date with you. Do this right..”

in that moment, time felt as if it were standing completely still..nothing about this entire ordeal felt like reality right now. There was no way that not only had you spent hours entangled in the sheets with EJ the Don, exchanging kisses, sweat and every other bodily fluid possible. There was no way you were in this famous rapper’s house, let alone his bed..and there was certainly no way in hell that he had just asked you out mid-orgasm..certainly you had to be dreaming! But alas, here you were with your bodies melded together as one. Those jade colored eyes beaming down at you with the most serene of energy. In a way, his words brought you comfort..peace. Normally, guys would try and pressure you into situations that you weren’t ready for. Using sex as a clever segway into whatever their true goal was. But that wasn’t the case with him. Truth be told, he didn’t have to lie to get what he wanted..he was honest to a fault and maybe that was one of his biggest flaws. He couldn’t be deceitful and that oftentimes led to him hurting people’s feelings. His little spat with Mikasa was a prime example..had he exercised a bit of restraint, maybe the situation wouldn’t have blown up the way it had. With you, he was hoping to have the opposite effect. If he wanted you gone, you would’ve been ass naked in the back of an Uber before the sun came up. He was the last man who had to lie his way into some pussy so obviously, he was coming from a place of sincerity. Pushing gently at his chest, (Y/N) shifted your head to the side, thinking that if you did not look at him directly, those pangs of butterflies wouldn’t come rushing through your stomach. Instead, you were met with the soft grasp of his fingers underneath your chin. “Or not..” pausing to collapse next to you. Not only for a breather but because he felt as though he had set something wrong. Maybe he was being a little too forward and persistent. Or maybe he was a damn fool and this whole school kid, whirlwind crush was unrequited. But little did he know, you felt the exact same! Hell, maybe even stronger..it had been forever since you’d look at anyone the way you did him. And so what if it had only been two months since you guys knew each other? You’d heard that age old cliche ‘love at first sight’ more than you could count. Even if it wasn’t quite to that stage yet, you knew it was far stronger than just sex. You both had set it in your minds, unbeknownst to the other..that if you fucked one more time and those feelings didn’t remain, then you’d call it quits. But as you suspected..you were head over heels. Even when you finally managed to get some rest after the long night, you were dreaming of him. It was crazy! It honestly brought you back to a conversation you had just a few days prior…

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flashback• five days ago: Wisteria Gardens Apartments • southside

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The warm Florida sun peering down over the coast of Miami Beach, waves crashing subtly against sandy shores as patrons splashed through the cool waters and children built grainy castles. The picturesque view is the ideal representation of the bustling city. But lying within its intricate roadways and landscapes was an entirely different viewpoint. One far less appealing and inviting. Only those familiar with the areas would dare travel there..for them, ironically..it was home. The only place they felt welcomed. The projects. The ghetto..where many of Miami’ elites got their start and oftentimes dubbed their stomping grounds. Including upcoming stars, (Y/N) (L/N) and Niesha Daniels. Residents of Opa Locka’s infamous 8th Street. Where drug dealers and sex workers roamed frequently. Where those who only knew of violence and criminal activity thrived..but for you? It always brought forth a sense of nostalgia. The strange thing was, you weren’t too far removed from the dire situation you grew up in but it felt unreal going from rubbing elbows with rockstars to now driving through your old hood with Dior shades on your eyes. You remember the nights that you and your granny would hear gunshots from down the street; getting word that one of her friends’ grandsons or nephews had been involved in gang activity. Or the more joyful memories of you and Niesha walking to the corner store on Friday nights. Dressed just like the girls who were dubbed ‘hoochies’ back in the day but sporting your sew ins, micros, long acrylics and gold earrings proudly. The smell of fresh fish frying and BBQ plates outside of the gas station while crowds chatted and danced. Dope boys stationed in the parking lot with the doors of their Chevy Impalas swung wide open, blasting Jeezy and Ross as you both walked by. Being cat called by men old enough to be your fathers as they shot dice in front of the store doorway. It was a very different life from the one you both lived now. Hence why you were back..hoping to gain some clarity from the one person you had been dreading to see since returning home. Navigating your new rose gold Mercedes G Wagon into the parking lot of the Wisteria Gardens Apartments, you pulled into an empty space, promptly killing the engine afterwards. On the opposite side of the large complex sat a duplex, tucked off in the corner. Luckily, that was your destination so you wouldn’t be spotted. Neither would your vehicle. Stepping out in high-top brown and pink Dunks, biker shorts showing off your small leg tattoo and a Balenciaga sweatshirt. The 613 balayage flowed down your back and tied into a ponytail..(y/n) tossed the small crossbody over your shoulder and headed up to the front door on the left side, where you left two small knocks. It was then that you were greeted by the sound of serene music and bells playing. You’d push the door once more to realize that it was not only unlocked but slightly ajar. If it told you anything, it was that the man inside was hard at work and awaiting you. “Unc? Uncle Bam..you home?” Silence.

That was until you heard the deep tone of a male answer you back.

“About time you showed up, honey..” turning around, you were greeted with the calming aura and deep set eyes of a tall, darker skinned male with a muscular build and neatly styled dreads. Around his neck hung an Eye of Horus pendant and crystals. It was him..

“Unc!”

“Welcome home, baby girl. It’s been so long.”

akin to that of a little child, you leapt into his arms and beamed with joy! It had been roughly two years since you’d last been to his home. Travel and work had kept you so busy, you never had time. He was the only living family member that you had any sort of contact with from either side. Much like the many estranged ones, your uncle Benny, affectionately known as Bam around the area had grown up into a life of crime and as they always say with trouble, it’s easy to get in and even harder to get out of. He had spent his younger years in and out of prison before landing himself in there for fifteen years after beating the abuser of one of his closest friends nearly to death. He was a good man with a kind soul.

During his incarceration, he delved deep into spirituality. More so tarot and lightwork. An innate gift he knew he had possessed since childhood. He decided that once he got out, he’d walk the straight and narrow from then on out. Now a free man, he spends his days honing his craft here at his home; doing detailed readings, cleanses and spell work. As quiet as it was kept, he was the sole reason you were where you were right now. Shortly after the death of your grandmother, you were left alone. Your mom and her only daughter didn’t even bother to show up to the funeral and once she did show her face, she caused a scene. Only coming around in hopes of claiming some inheritance so she could promptly go shoot it up in a back alley somewhere. Then there was your father, sitting idly in Florida State Prison, serving life after he committed the ultimate sin. Needless to say, you wanted no parts of either of them anyways.

But you needed someone and luckily, your uncle had gotten to a far better place since finishing out his stint. He was living in a very nice duplex home with his long time partner, Kelvin. Who was equally as kind and loving as he was. Without question, he allowed you to stay in the other half without paying a dime for as long as you pleased. The two had come upon some serious money from their old ventures and decided to invest their funds. Restoring old apartment complexes that had been previously overrun by gang members and providing low income housing to the residents. Sometimes even waiving rent payments altogether for those in need. Essentially investing back into the community they called home. He truly was your idol..especially since it was him who introduced you to pole as a means of stress relief and self expression. Soon, that hobby turned into untapped talent that he felt needed to be shared. So one day, you began sharing the videos to your bare Instagram feed, quickly accruing a large following. One thing led to another and now, you were performing on stages larger than life. Without him, there would be no Pole Assassins or (influencer name).

“I know..that’s kinda my fault. I’m sorry..been busy. Thank you for the biscuits by the way. They were so good.”

“Don’t worry ‘bout it, chile. I know how much you used to love those things. Miss (grandma’s name) used to make them for me all the time. Besides, I know them folks been keeping you on your toesss. But get that money. I ain’t mad at you.”

uttering the sentiment in a rather feminine and expressive tone, waving his hand fan to feign off any smoke. Candles burned from the corners, along with pungent incense. It looked as if he were just in the middle of charging some crystals when you came in. But it was rather perfect timing..as he had predicted, you’d be making your way over. So he was prepared!

“Gone take a seat, honey. I’ll get you some tea.” feeling just as cozy as you did years ago, you’d plop down in one of the plush, throne like chairs and wait for him to join you. Whilst he was pouring up a batch of his famous iced tea, you scoured the various decks of cards and oracles with your eyes. Fascinated by this unknown world, you could only imagine what this visit would entail. “So..tell me how the life of the rich and famous has been treating my dear niece..how’s Beyonce and ‘nem?” sending you into a fit of laughter. He was such a card sometimes, always saying the first thing that comes to mind. “Ooh..now Unc, you know I’m far from that but..we're working on it. It’s been good though..can’t complain..” Just then, a wave of sudden sadness overtook you and you’d recall crying this morning. And almost instantly, he’d pick up on it.

“But?..”

“But what?..”

A question you and he both already knew the fateful answer to. You were severely depressed; a hole you couldn’t seem to come out of. No matter how many accolades, accomplishments and even happy moments you accrued. It all felt meaningless..you still didn’t have the two things you so desperately sought after. And if anyone knew that, it was him.

“You still feel like you haven’t done enough. Or rather..something’s missing.” You knew he’d read you like a book but if you knew that, you’d also know that he was far from done with his investigation. Finally working his way back to the table, he’d hand you the glass and take a seat before you. The two oracle decks you were previously looking over, he’d pick up and shuffle through. He was full and aware of how to help ease your worry and hopefully clear up some of your pressing questions. He had done it so many times before..it had been so long since you’d had one of his signature readings. Uncle Bam’s predictions were almost always spot on so if you could trust someone’s intuition, even when it wasn’t your own, you could trust him. “Don’t worry,, we gon’ help you out. Take a couple breaths for me while I get these shuffled.” Without hesitation, you did so. Inhaling slowly and exhaling all the same with your eyes closed. This was always done to help center yourself before a reading; bringing you closer to the universe and to help you realize what it is you need to hear.

slowly but surely, he’d begin to dish out cards. Akin to that of a black jack dealer, they’d fly onto the table face down and soon after, he’d flip them over. Taking a moment to mull over them, he’d place his finger to his chin and release a deep sigh. The look on his face had you concerned for a moment..as if he were contemplating something serious. Perhaps, you were in worse shape than you thought.

“..there’s something you’ve been feeling conflicted about. Somebody rather. You’re scared..” the words drawing a look of concern and a slight gasp from between your lips. What exactly did he mean?

“These feelings..they’re strong. You feel so deeply for this person and you don’t want to because you’re afraid of getting hurt. Afraid that they won’t feel the same. It’s like you keep telling yourself, ‘it’s too soon..’ You also feel like if you pursue this one thing, then you failed at everything else. I’m seeing..flowers of some kind. Purple. Some flower that meant a lot to you. Maybe you saw something today that brought back intense memories for you. Maybe they even made you cry..”

as he was spouting off his visions, you’d feel a slight lump form in the back of your throat. It was heavy and hard to swallow. Afraid that if you did, you’d burst into tears right then and there. You hadn’t uttered a word to Uncle Bam about your situation and you knew no one else could have either. Not about your granny’s house, about Eren..nothing. Even Niesha, who was a notorious blabbermouth. He more than likely whisked right into your apartment with those biscuits and right out. As far as the flowers, he was spot on. The name of this place? Wisteria Gardens and ironically, it was the same plants that surrounded this complex. Much like the ones that used to grow in your grandma’s yard every year. Beautiful, lavender flowers that hung like bearing fruit. Seeing them again dredged up those memories of playing in the yard and picking them for her vases. It was just his innate sense of intuition. He truly was a master of his craft. Divinity was his true calling! He’d pull back for a moment and wipe his own eyes, reaching over for a burning stick, wrapped in twine and cloth. “Whew! Gon’ make me break the sage out in here..this is heavy, honey!..” breaking a bit of the tension and intense emotions up by making you laugh. “But let’s keep going..” he’d continue surveying the cards and shuffling through. Picking out the ones that resonated with him the most. Fortunately, there was some good in this reading so he’d gravitate towards that.

“..But I see you’ve also been feeling gracious. I’m seeing a lot of gratitude. You’re happy with how far you’ve come. There’s something you’ve had your eye on..maybe a new purse or some type of jewelry. Reward yourself, chile. You’ve earned it.” It was right then that he’d decide to place the cards down and remove his glasses, wiping up the remnants of his tears with a bit of laughter. That’s when he’d reach across the table to grasp your hands.

“(Y/N), sweetheart. You’re a wonderful young woman. Always have been..you got a good head on your shoulders. For as long as I could remember, you never gave your grandma trouble. You were smart, even when things were hard for you, you did everything you were supposed to and I’m so proud of you. It ain’t been easy for you and hell, you could’ve ended up just like me, your mama and your daddy but you didn’t..you’ve come such a long way..” It was then that the words began to spill out as did your tears because it had been so long since you’d heard someone tell you that they were proud of you.

“Thank you, Unc. I’ve been trying..I really have.”

But alas, that wasn’t all he had to say. There was one more tidbit of advice he had to give. Looking you dead in your eyes, he’d hold your hands.

“I know, baby. That’s why I’m telling you if you don't listen to anything else and I don’t need these cards to say it, it’s this..go live your life. You’ve been working since you were seventeen. Ain’t stopped since. Your granny would be so proud of you so go live. If this person is truly making you as happy as I can tell they are, go for it. Go find your peace, you’ve earned it.” and with that, you knew from that moment, what had to be done….

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So with this man now lying next to you, eyes averted to the covers because he was a little embarrassed, you’d hastily reach over and cup his face into another kiss before rolling over on top of him. “Stop looking like that.” immediately, he’d begin to flush red and try to form a sentence but you rendered him impossible with your tongue. Brushing your fingers through his hair and straddling him. Just a moment ago, you seemed completely uninterested and now, you were trying to go at it again. What changed?

“Of course I’d love to go out with you, EJ. Nothing would make me happier.” and you had just made him the happiest he had been in a while! Grabbing your waist, he’d break into an adorable cackle, just feeling so relieved that you hadn’t rejected him. “Thank goodness..” which brought you to a soft giggle in return. Which soon transformed into you full blown laughing. For the first time in a long time, you’d have a heartfelt laugh..

“What’s so funny?”

“Nothing..I was just thinking about something.”

Flipping back over onto your side and running your finger down the perimeter of his chest, you’d place a gentle kiss along his cheek before coiling those smaller arms around his torso.

“So what exactly did the brilliant EJ have in mind for a first date?” causing the rapper to gulp in response because out of all his areas of expertise, romance wasn’t his strong suit. The fact that he had actually managed to bag your fine ass in the first place was an achievement in and of itself! Now, he was left with the task of ensuring that he kept you around..cradling his arm around you, he’d look down with a soft grin and place a kiss to your forehead. Trying his hardest to lay on the charm.

“Well, I was thinking maybe a nice dinner, a little walk on the beach..” but as his words trailed off, something told you that wasn't exactly his style. He seemed far too laid back for the luxurious, pompous date nights..but he was trying to be as chivalrous as possible. After all, it wouldn’t be the slightest bit polite to take a woman he had spent all night going raw in for burgers and fries on an official first date! Even so, you wanted him to be comfortable as well. Something you’d both enjoy. Not only that, if you wanted to do this right and not just be two people sleeping together without the slightest clue about the other..then it was important to just let go of the awkward jitters and ask outright what your interests were. No need in being shy after all that had happened. No need in being afraid..this was a safe space.

“Unless..there’s something else you wanted to do.” which prompted you to start giggling yet again. And this time, his little cheeks flustered red and he’d stare yet again, feeling embarrassed. Nobody had tripped EJ the Don up quite like you. Here he was stumbling over himself like a bumbling idiot and all of that confidence he had used to seduce you was flying out the window. Even so, you thought it was just the cutest thing ever. “Not at all. That actually sounds really nice but..I wanna know what it is you like to do. Not just what you think will impress me. In fact…” stopping amid your rant to run a finger down the center of his chest. “I wanna get to know the man behind all of that music. The real you..I mean, don’t get me wrong. I love me some EJ but..Eren? He seems a lot cooler and I can’t wait to meet him.” And for the first time in a long time, his heart would begin to flutter..beating out of his chest because no woman had ever asked him such a thing. Granted, he was putting them out before they could get too close but deep down, he knew they only wanted one thing and that was to use his namesake for a come up. They didn’t care about who he was outside of the chains, money and fame. He was a meal ticket and nothing more. And here you were, wanting to see him for who he truly was. To hell with waiting or being too soon, he had to make you his before somebody else came and snatched you up!

“We’re a little past favorite colors and TV shows, don’t you think?”

“No better time than the present, sweetheart. Maybe we can talk about it..after we get a shower.”

Which didn’t sound like too bad of an idea right now. The only question was what you were going to wear, seeing as how you arrived in nothing more than a bikini and had been wearing nothing but his sheets and body fluids since. But he’d figure something out. For now, you two of you could continue your ‘bonding’ under the warm waters of a shower head.

“Guess you’re right. Speaking of..what do you like for breakfast? I can have my assistant go get–”

“I was actually thinking I’d cook a little something. If you don’t mind. The restaurants on this side of town can’t make breakfast worth a damn. They crack an egg on the plate, smear some sauce around and charge a hundred dollars for it. No thanks..hope you like grits.”

that was all he needed to hear to be confident that he had made the right decision..you were everything he had been looking for in a woman!..grinning from ear to ear, Eren would roll to his side and hop up, gently tugging you up afterwards.

“Or do you northerners not know anything about that?”

“Give me some credit now. I’ve been living among you country bumpkins long enough to know about grits. And other things too.”

It felt good to know that neither of you had to put on a facade around one another. And with that, the witty banter and jokes ensued. Poking fun at one another like old friends.

“Oh, is that so? Like what?” questioning as the two of you walked towards the bathroom. It’s then that he’d lift up your arm and twirl you around to examine your backside, even leaving a light slap to watch it ripple. “I know that it didn't come from a doctor. That’s gotta be greens and cornbread. Got to be.” Shaking his head in pure awe at how thick you were. The one thing he loved about living in the south were the women..the girls who were homegrown and country fed. Long before he was surrounded by BBL bodies, he was blessed with the fortune of seeing the ladies that didn’t need a knife. The ones that had the kind of ass that would make somebody do a double take and clutch their chest. But even so, he’d send you into a fit of laughter, playfully slapping his chest.

“Get away from me. Play too damn much.”

“What?! I didn’t lie..matter of fact, lemme get a closer look.”

Playfully chasing you into the shower where the second bout of your morning would surely ensue. There wasn’t a single doubt that you two would have no problem adjusting into a relationship.

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But unfortunately, the same couldn’t have been said for you guys’ best friends…the people both of you adored more than anything and the ones who had been seeing one another long before (y/n) and Eren even decided to hook up. Armin and Niesha weren’t exactly seeing eye to eye at the moment, which wasn’t anything out of the ordinary. Seeing as how both of them truly only got along when they were fucking like rabid animals. Otherwise, it was a toxic game of cat and mouse. A test to see who could make the other jealous first. Posted up with this girl and hugging that dude. Childish antics if you’d ever seen any. Nonetheless, it worked for the chaotic pair. That was until last Friday at that yacht party, when it all came to a very explosive head.

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flashback: part two - miami port

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“So you gone sit and play in my face like that?! You gone lie and tell me you wasn’t with the bitch? Armin, who do you think I am?”

“And if I was..what exactly are you going to do about it? But since you asked, Niesha. I’ll tell you exactly who you are..an idiot. I mean, no offense, baby but you have to be out of your fucking mind to think that we were anything more than this. What? You thought because I brought you a couple purses, some jewelry that me and you would be together? Sweetheart, you are nothing more than some stress relief. Don’t get ahead of yourself. I’ll admit, the pussy was good..amazing even but I don’t plan on settling any time soon. Especially not with someone like you.”

words that stung like bees, ones that should have been cutting deep and sending her into hysterics..if it were anyone else! But it was just as (Y/N) had said:

“Haven’t met a dude she hadn’t left crying yet.”

and just as she had predicted, Armin was up next! Rather than bursting into tearful sobs and cries, he was met with cackles and hearty laughs. A tattooed hand and long acrylics covered her mouth as her head flew back. Eventually doubling over in laughter.

“What the fuck is so funny?” His nerves obviously rattled by how unbothered she was. He knew that Niesha was crazy and hell, that was half the excitement but damn, any other woman would have at least slapped and said she hated him. Here she was cackling like shit was sweet..just what was this girl’s problem?!

“You done? Like I said, Armin..who do you think I am? You can save them lil’ weak ass insults for a bitch with no self esteem. I said it before and I’ll say it again..’you not going nowhere. And neither am I..” standing ten toes down in her sentiment, even folding her legs and pretending to swipe over her long nails. Completely unfazed by anything he’d said before. However, Armin was a little stirred in his spirit. Always getting riled up when he was with Niesha. That was the effect she’d had on him since the first night they met. Heated arguments turned to fiery, passionate sex that was always better than the last. But tonight, he’d decided he had enough and was calling it quits for good. He had to..otherwise, he was going to lose his own damn mind!

“Oh..you thought I was mad about that lil’ brokedown girl you had in your Insta story. If you’re gone try to make me jealous, at least get a bitch with all her teeth. Have some class.” and it was then that he’d retort back, trying to defend himself. He had been pacing the floor of the master bedroom suite in the ship’s cabin, trying not to lose his cool but this girl was really testing his patience. She had the nerve to cheat when he had spent all of that money on her?! The nerve. What made her so special from all the rest of the girls that fell in love with him?

��Says the one fucking half of The Miami Heat. Don’t try to check me for some shit when you’re doing the same thing. I saw you with him, Niesha.”

“That’s right. While you were getting neck from ol’ gummy bear, I was getting my shit cracked. I’m not your bitch so what are you mad for? This free game.” And little was he aware of the can of worms that he had popped open.

“You know what your problem is? You’re entitled. You try to compensate with all these lil’ hoes because you’re really a loser, baby. You think they’ll actually fuck with you if you ain’t have the bread you did? C’mon now. Flexing mommy and daddy’s money ‘cause you would’ve never made it otherwise. Went and got you a chain, some tattoos and started showing your ass. But the real Armin? Ain’t nothing but a square ass ‘lil nigga looking for approval because his parents never gave it to him. You are so used to everybody kissing your ass because you throw a lil’ change in their face. But I’m not one of them. Ion care about you or your money. That bag? I already had two. Your lil’ necklace? I gave that shit away. We wouldn’t be together..you right..community dick is good for one thing and that’s never being seen in public with it. Matter of fact, I think Connie and Ony are here tonight. Might go see what their fine asses are hitting for. I need a real man.”

Suddenly, she’d stand to her feet and begin making the trek towards the door. As if nothing had happened but Armin was not about to let that happen. “Shit, if my sister hadn’t got to him first, maybe I would’ve fucked EJ too. Heard that dick was hitting—” suddenly, any bit of restraint and level headedness he may have had..went straight out of the window. Before she could walk out, Armin would grab her arm and force her against the wall. “Watch your fucking, Niesha.” Causing her to start cackling yet again. It was as if nothing phased this woman. His words may have meant nothing but hers hurt like a bitch! Insulting him, playing on his insecurities and then proudly admitting that she’d fuck his best friends?! She’d gone too far! He had gotten so worked up, he’d hadn’t even realized that his hand was latched around her throat. Immediately freezing because he’d never in his life hurt a woman and if she brought him to that point, then she had to go but before he could take it away..the look in Niesha’s eyes told a different story..one that thoroughly enjoyed the sensation of his hands around her neck and even signified it by biting her lip; sucking her teeth in a lecherous manner. This toxicity truly got her excited!

“Mmm…now I like that shit.” Getting visibly aroused at the vice grip he had on her. Even prompting him to squeeze tighter because it’d get her wetter. All Armin could do was laugh because once again, she had worn him down and pulled him right back into her trap.

“You’re a crazy bitch, you know that?..or maybe I’m the crazy one for fucking with you..”

Just then, he’d feel his thumb between her plump lips, being suckled on and her deep set, dark, siren like eyes laser focused on him and his biggest weakness..that sweet little voice that she always drew him in with.

“Maybe..but..” and before she could complete the sentence, he’d have her up against the dresser, legs spread and her thong pushed to the side. “You’re right, I’m not going anywhere. And you’re sure as hell not. This pussy belongs to me, act like you remember.” This time, tugging her by her hair with the same force; proof that he was done playing games with her. He was going to show her what a real man was alright! “Now put that fucking phone down..” That slight grimace in his voice sent to her spine and her sensitive spot. She loved seeing him like this. Hence why she got his ass in an uproar in the first place. She wanted to get him as angry as possible to get him to take his frustration out on her. “Mm..whatever you say...”

Because in the end, she always got her way. And Armin? He’d finally met his match!

───✱*.｡:｡✱*.:｡✧*.｡✰───────✱*.｡:｡✱*.:｡✧*.｡✰────

Hence why, at the moment, he was headed into the Nobu, one of Miami’s premier eateries. Notorious for feeding some of the city’s most elite. Tonight, they’d be hosting the Artlerts..the leaders of a multi billion dollar conglomerate, earning their fortune in oil and technology..stemming back from the early nineteen hundreds. Needless to say, they were descendants of old money and Armin, was a direct beneficiary and byproduct of such wealth and he certainly took advantage of it. However, his parents had contacted him earlier in the week to inform him that they’d be flying into town and that there was important business that they needed to discuss with him. What exactly they had to discuss was a mystery..however, all would soon be revealed. Dressed in one of his several designer ensembles; an all black Armani suit..turtleneck tucked into his slacks with a matching belt buckle. Covering the plethora of tattoos that littered his body. Silver rings adorning his fingers and a matching necklace. Coordinated and fitting just right..the potent aroma of Tom Ford cologne radiating from his body..he truly looked like a million bucks. But unfortunately, his mood didn’t exactly match his current physical shape. Being with family should have been a monumental occasion. Marked with laughs, good times and love. And for the bright eyed, young producer..it was in his earlier years. As the only child to wealthy entrepreneurs and presumably, the heir to a massive fortune, they poured every ounce of adoration, care and their limitless resources into ensuring that Armin had the best upbringing possible. Private schools, tutors, a fully funded college education, and the best things that life had to offer. Which paid off..Armin excelled in every aspect of his life. Top tier grades; which earned him a steady four point six average until he graduated college with a degree in marine biology. He played baseball, basketball and rugby, an aficionado in all three and was even his university’s point guard up until junior year. Needless to say, he was his parents’ pride and joy. But it seemed as of late, that satisfaction seemed to have dissipated a bit. The Artlerts had high expectations for their child. Naturally, they supported anything that he wanted to explore and backed him one hundred percent..however, they weren’t betting on any of those ventures including making music. Less known, in the hip-hop industry. Granted, they had no qualms about it. If that’s what made him happy and he put his entire focus into it, then it was all that they could ask of their son.

That just wasn’t the case for Armin though. As successful and bright as he was, he was equally as reckless and rambunctious. Drinking, partying and laying up with various girls. Although he kept his parents out of the loop, it didn’t take long before word of his antics made it back to them via their inside sources who kept tabs on him and it was safe to say that they were not happy.

Hence why he was so nervous to meet with them tonight..the shame and embarrassment that was beginning to set in. He knew that his family would either scold him until they were red in the face or just give him a lecture of pure disappointment. Either way, he wasn’t much in the way of hearing it. Regardless, he’d traipse into the lofty establishment, hands tucked into the pockets of his suit as the hostess greeted him. Having quite the reputation and prestige, she informed him that his party was waiting and saw him to his table immediately. Glass chandeliers hung from the ceilings and cerulean lighting illuminated the dimmed dining area. Tables and booths lined with silky white cloths and perfectly folded napkins, seated next to polished silverware. Wine glasses filled with crystalline water and patrons, unmistakable members of the upper echelons chatted among their peers about finances, private trips and shopping sprees. It all felt so suffocating!

“Armin, darling! So glad you made it..”

Suddenly, a middle aged woman with honey blonde tufts, styled into loose curls, deep blue eyes and a pink satin gown with fur doused across her shoulders arose from her seat to drape her arms around him. The exorbitant pearls hanging from her neck and the Elizabeth Taylor perfume surrounded Armin like a warm embrace.

“Mom! It’s so good to see you.” grinning from ear to ear. No matter how old he grew or the amount of time that passed, he’d forever be his mom’s baby. Or as she could so affectionately dub him, her “pumpkin pie.” Because he was so sweet as a child. Seated next to her, was a man with a lighter variation of the hair color and features, with the exception of stubble and slightly thicker brows. His voice rang out with a stronger vibrato as he greeted his child. “Good to see you, son.” “Dad..good to see you too..” Reaching over to extend his arms for a hug. The tension had somewhat subsided from Armin’s body..seeing his folks again. At the end of the day, he was their baby regardless of what he did. “Please, have a seat.”

however, the news they came to deliver was going to do little to make him feel settled once revealed. Pulling his chair out, Armin would do as his mom instructed, taking a swig of water afterwards. “So..how’ve you been, Armin?” His mother made the first inquisition. Out of genuine concern and to break the proverbial ice. It always was easier for him to open up around her. He’d go on to tell them that he had been doing fine and that he was set to go on tour soon with his boys. They were working on some big projects and he was doing fine. Completely omitting the fact that his promiscuous, womanizing ways had caught up to him recently. Granted, he wasn’t going to let Niesha or her nonsense take him off of his true course but he couldn’t continue on playing these games..it was fun but it was also taxing. Even so, he couldn’t stay away from her. That’s how addictive it was. His mom seemed to be pleased by the update..her son in good health and spirits was all that she could ask for. Even if she didn’t exactly understand Armin’s career choice or even agree with it at times, it made her smile knowing that her son was happy..seeing him beam with excitement as he talked about working with these amazing artists and the upcoming festival his label was putting together. He also mentioned getting to work with the Pole Assassins and how they were bringing something new and innovative to the industry. His mother would grin and giggle, listening and even asking pertinent questions, ones that he was happy to answer. It took his mind away from all the other things and possibilities that could have been coming with this conversation. “Oh sweetie..I’m so proud of you. It sounds like you’re having a wonderful time.” She’d hoist her glass with a cheery expression and take a sip to commemorate his success. That’s when he’d glance over to his father, who shared a similar expression, faintly grinning and nodding.

“I have to agree. It’s good to see you doing something you love, son. Very proud of you.” His father would nurse his champagne once more before setting his glass back to the crisp tablecloth. Regardless of how he felt, his parents had never put this immense pressure on him or made him feel inadequate for his choices. Many of his peers who had also come from esteemed backgrounds were constantly under the scrutiny of their guardians. They were working in prestigious, lucrative fields, making endless amounts of wealth and doing great things. And still didn’t have their family’s respect. Armin was truly fortunate. Even so, it didn’t stop them from worrying. It didn’t stop them from being afraid that one day, the entertaining lifestyle would catch up with him. They weren’t blind or stupid..not by a long shot. They knew their son partook in all of the things that his and his friends lyrics’ entailed. “So..are you seeing anyone? Is there a lucky girl in your life?” His dad, who had always teased him, knew how flustered he became, mainly because despite his playboy appearance now..his son was the most adorable nerd in his former life! “Ah-well..you know. I’m just kinda..keeping my options open.” Part of him was ashamed and another half was nervous. Ashamed that he couldn’t present his folks with a suitable young lady. That he hadn’t brought a date to any of their meetings..he was aware that they wanted him to get married, start a family but he just wasn’t ready to commit to that yet. He wanted to have fun, mess around and more so..have his fill! He didn’t want just one lady. It wasn’t his style..on the other hand, he was nervous..nervous because he could no longer deny the feelings he had for that insane woman. Regardless of how batshit crazy Niesha drove him, she’d had her claws sunk into his skin deep and he didn’t want anyone else but her.

Even at his party, after fighting with her and everything, he made love to her as if he were hoping to make her stay and although she was just saying the most evil things..she told him she loved him. Crying it into his ear as she held him close. He’d been with a couple girls here and there but all he could think about was where she was..was she thinking of him too? He was nervous because if he could no longer fight his urges, would he be able to bring her home? Would they accept her?…would they still be proud of their baby boy? She came from an entirely different world than him. One he loved being a part of. She was wild, rambunctious and unfortunately, couldn’t flip a switch the way he did. Maybe that’s why he was so obsessed with her ass! She lived in her truth twenty four seven. There was no faking with her..and ironically, he admired that. And despite what she said, she actually gave a damn about him..unlike the others. She was honest, she made him care about himself and didn’t allow him to stay in bad places too long. It was crazy..

“Well I’m sure the right girl will come along soon..” “..yeah, unless you just have no game.” His father uttered with a sly look, making Armin scoff and laugh as he took another sip. “You wish, old man. I have many problems but that’s not one.” He always enjoyed when he and his dad would banter back and forth. It reminded Armin that he was human and not this billionaire machine, who only focused on amassing profit. “Alright, this old dog could teach you some tricks. All you have to do is ask.” The three would laugh, joke and have a wonderful time. “Oh please, don’t let him fool you. He was a scared wreck when he asked me on our first date. His friends had to deliver his love letter during class because he was so nervous. Adorable, really.” “It was called delegating tasks. I just knew you’d say yes.” "You're so full of it.."

He was truly enjoying this time and feeling back to himself. He felt as if he could truly be honest and open with them. More so than when he was younger..they weren’t inherently strict but they kept him on a tight leash so that he didn’t wind up like some of his other classmates; taking Adderall and Xans during ski trips or family gatherings. He was the one and only heir to the Artlert Industries fortune. Hence why once their meals were brought out, they’d pose another question..

“Hope you don’t mind, we ordered for you since we had no idea when you’d arrive. Your favorite.” And they were spot on. Linguine with spinach and lobster. “Not at all..thank you.” As he took the first bite of his dish, that’s when Mr. Artlert would look directly up at his son..

“Armin..do you like making music? Is this something you enjoy?..”

The question came as a bit of a shock, honestly. Truth be told, he hadn’t thought about that in depth. Armin first began delving into music as an adolescent..he sang in the church choir as a young kid and was gifted his first instrument when he was twelve years old. It was the core link that bonded him and EJ together so for him, it was essentially something that changed his life. He honestly had never thought about doing anything else..

“Of course..I wouldn’t if I didn’t. Why do you ask?” but it was more than just genuine curiosity and sudden interest in his son’s career that had the Artlert matriarch inquiring. There was an entirely different reason other than quality time that had prompted this dinner as well. Truth was, the Artlerts had been keeping a rather worrisome secret from their son and was contemplating when would be the appropriate time to divulge. Now was as good as any..might as well rip the bandage off and come clean. Clearing his throat, Mr. Artlert would take a swig of his wine before proceeding.

“Armin..your mom and I..we..”

At that moment, his stomach began to sink to its lowest pit and he’d begin to form a hard lump in his throat. What exactly did they have to tell him? Why were they stalling?!..Just then, his cerulean eyes began to dilate twice their size and even well up a bit. Were they getting a divorce? Did something happen to the company? He wished that they’d say something! But he’d wait no further because his mom would grasp a nearby handkerchief and press it to her face to conceal her inevitable tears. “Mom..what’s wrong? Please!..tell me.” his parents were his entire world and he couldn’t imagine anything causing them grief. But soon, he’d join in on the heavy feelings when his dad confessed something that he wasn’t expecting.

“Son..I went to the doctor last week and he informed me that they found something. A tumor..” the words seemed to have frozen time in its very tracks and shook the young producer to his core. He couldn’t believe it. “A-a tumor? Wait..are you?--” no! He couldn’t even say it! He couldn’t even fathom such a horrendous thought. Clutching his glass, Armin’s hands began to tremble and his breathing was labored. How could they keep such a secret?! How could they not tell him sooner?..the thought of something happening to the man that he so desperately admired and looked up to was terrifying.. he was scared to pry any further. Almost becoming childlike but just as he had done during his upbringing, Armin’s father would ease his mind.

“Fortunately..they did catch it in time so before it becomes too far malignant but the next couple months on my treatment will be crucial. I’m doing everything I can to ensure that I won’t become ill. I’ve hired the best team of doctors and I’m currently on sabbatical from the company. My board of advisors have already made proper arrangements as well. I’ve taken all precautions.”

It was a relief, truly. Although he wasn’t out of the woods yet, he still had a fighting chance and that was more than enough for Armin. However, it wasn’t the only reason for his disclosure. He had an ultimatum of sorts for his son.

“Armin..you are the one and sole heir to the family business. Once I’m no longer around, you will be the one to step in. How you choose to proceed is your choice entirely–” “Don’t talk like that..don’t talk like you’ve already given up.”

He couldn’t stand it and although he assured him things would be fine, he couldn’t believe that until he had an official clean bill of health and stopped speaking as if he knew something Armin didn’t. But this was a pivotal moment..one where Armin would have to, for once in his life..make a hard decision. One that would require sacrifice..

"I'm going to fight as hard as I can, you have my word. I won't let something like this get me. But I have to know that you'll work just as hard to ensure your future. You've always been a bright young man and I trust that you'll continue to do what's best for you.."

it didn't take a rocket scientist to get what exactly he was implying. How far could music truly take him? Was it sustainable?...he wasn't sure. He wasn't sure how to process any of this but what he did know was that this wasn't going to be an easy road and he had a lot to contemplate from here on out.

"I'd be lying if I said that I am a fan of what you do. Can’t stand it. The music..the partying, all of it is not what I envisioned for you. Sometimes makes your mother and I feel as though we failed." Quite brutal but he could only speak from his heart. Tough love was sometimes necessary, even at the expense of his feelings. But there was one thing that he wanted his son to know above all else:

" That said..I love you, son. We both do..“Whatever choice you make, I support and always be proud..I won’t be upset with you no matter what but just make sure that it’s one you can live with.”

and something told him that his time to decide was running out..

── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ.─── ── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :

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[amhrosina]

Honey Come Home (Frank Castle x f!Reader)

MASTERLIST // JOIN MY TAG LIST

A/N: I think I wrote this super self indulgent piece because I was definitely wishing I had someone to come defend/save me when I was in a similar situation with a family member of mine. For all of my friends who are survivors of abuse, I love you, I'm proud of you, and Frank Castle would defend you with his life if he could!!!! (Also a huge thank you to @wheredidiputmyfish for beta reading :))) )

Summary: It's been years since Frank's heard from you, but the second you call and ask him for help, he hurries to defend you from your abusive and toxic boyfriend.

(Warnings: SUPER TRIGGER WARNING FOR DESCRIPTIONS OF ABUSE!!!!!, it's not directly spelled out but its alluded to and the aftermath is heavily discussed, canon typical frank stuff, descriptions of violence, frank goes all punisher on your shitty boyfriend, some PTSD, ex-best friends to lovers, references to frank and reader's past, angsty as hell, short lovey-dovey smut at the end, happy ending)

Frank woke with a start at the sound of his ringtone chiming from the front pocket of his backpack, tucked away and mostly forgotten about between the rare phone calls from Matt and Madani. It was so late in the evening that most people would consider it early in the morning. Whether it was late or early, it was certainly not a great time to be calling someone. Frank thought about pointing this out to whoever was waiting for him to pick up his phone, but his annoyance quickly faded as he read the name flashing across the screen.  

A crack, deep down in his soul, ached as he read your name. It had been years since he’d spoken to you, and even longer since he’d seen you. The last time he’d spoken to you, he’d said some things he regretted, things that haunted him to this day, things that he’d never forgive himself for saying to you of all people.  

There was a deep well of history between the two of you, and though Frank had been decent enough at pretending it didn’t exist, the memories pushed to the forefront of his mind, playing like a montage in an old movie. Stolen glances between chemistry equations in high school, the subtle press of Frank’s hand against your back when he’d walk you home from campus in college, the touches that lasted just a little too long to be considered friendly when he was on leave. You were his, and he was yours, though that wasn’t entirely true, either. The history he shared with you was a compilation of ‘almosts’ that were usually too painful to think about for longer than five seconds. 

And now you were calling him. After three years of silence, you were calling him at this ungodly hour, and he was struggling to gain function in his brain, lungs, chest, fingers, entire being. If he didn’t answer soon, it would likely go to the voicemail that Frank had yet to set up even though it had been literal years since he bought the phone. The idea of potentially missing the sound of your voice after so long without it knocked a semblance of sense into him.  

He clicked the screen and raised it to his ear, praying that this wasn’t someone’s idea of a cruel joke. The sound of your subdued, ragged breaths carried through the speaker and hit him directly in the chest. For a moment, Frank said nothing, afraid he would break whatever spell had convinced you to call him after so long. Then, because the thought of not hearing your voice was so unbearable, he murmured your name into the phone. 

“Frank?”  

You had whispered it, but it echoed loudly in Frank’s head. It wasn’t the voice of the confident, radiant person he’d known so many years before. His chest tightened, and he gripped the phone a little tighter as he murmured your name again. 

“I didn’t think you’d answer.” You revealed, still whispering, but a little relieved.  

“I’ll always answer if it’s you.” He blurted out, immediately cringing at his inability to filter his thoughts before they exited his mouth. “Are you okay?” 

“Frank, I need your hel-.” 

You were cut off by a crashing sound that made you yelp into the phone. Frank listened intently to the sound of your cries as someone pounded against a door nearby. Fear, anger, and unabashed love filled his chest until he couldn’t stand still any longer. He pressed the phone inbetween his cheek and shoulder, pulling on whatever articles of clothing were within reach. 

“Frankie.” You pleaded, your voice so broken and cracked that Frank could barely breathe at the sound of it.  

“I’m coming.” He murmured, pulling his boots on with fervor. “I’m coming, baby. Can you send me your location, sweetheart? Where are you?” 

A buzz rattled against his cheek, and he swore when he read the address you’d sent. This whole time, for the years that he’d spent alone, miserable, and missing you, you were living less than twenty minutes away. A male shout in the background of your muffled cries fueled his anger even further. 

“Who’s trying to hurt you, baby?” He was already exiting out the back of his building, running toward the storage facility that doubled as his garage.  

“He’s my,” you paused, sniffling, “He was my boyfriend. He’s not anymore.” 

“Do you have a weapon? Anything to protect yourself until I get there?” He clenched his jaw at the thought of you being hurt. 

“I locked myself in the bathroom.” You whimpered as another sound crashed through the bathroom. “Please hurry.” You begged. 

Frank’s jaw was so tightly clenched that he was surprised he hadn’t broken his teeth. 

“I’m on my way, baby. I’ll be there soon. I promise.”  

“He’s dangerous, Frank.” You warned, and Frank’s chest ached with the realization that you were worried about him when you were the one in danger.  

“He’s not as dangerous as me.” Frank replied, clenching his fists. 

Frank clambered into his truck and backed into the abandoned street. The navigation said he’d arrive in twenty-one minutes. Frank made it in ten. 

- 

“I’m around the corner, sweetheart. I’m almost there.” Frank was pushing ninety in his truck. “What’s he doing now?” 

“He’s-” You started, and abruptly stopped.  

“He’s what, baby?” Frank pushed the gas pedal all the way down. 

A sudden crash sounded, and Frank held his breath. Then, you began screaming, and Frank saw red. He was out of the truck and hauling ass up the sidewalk to the old, ramshackle house faster than anyone should be physically able to move. The sound of your screams echoed through the phone, but the closer he got to the front door, the more he could hear it bellowing outside of the house. 

He didn’t hesitate to kick the door down, instantly spying your hunched form as your dickhead ex-boyfriend tried to tug you out of the bathroom. Both turned to look at Frank as he took in his surroundings. 

Your face, your beautiful and radiant and glowing face, was littered with cuts and bruises. The right side of your jaw was swollen and tinged in dark blue and black. A cut that swept across your top and bottom lip bled profusely onto the tile beneath you.  

“What the fuck, man?” 

Frank would kill him. Frank would tear him apart. He would– 

“Frankie.” Your sigh of relief was melded with a guttural sob.  

The very-soon-to-be-dead man swung around, eyeing you.  

“This is who you called, you stupid bitch?” He rolled his eyes and squeezed the hand that was wrapped around your arm. A whimper left your lips, and it took everything in Frank not to murder the man right then and there. But he would not let you see that – the violence that he was capable of – the violence that tainted the blood on his hands, dooming him to a life without remorse. 

“Take your fucking hands off her.” Frank demanded, stepping forward until he was towering over the man. The man eyed him warily but didn’t let go. Frank almost laughed at his idiocy. “You’re not gonna want to know what’s gonna happen if you don’t listen to me.” 

The man dropped your arm, and you sagged to the ground, inching across the floor until you were behind Frank’s broad frame. Frank didn’t let his eyes stray from his target as he knelt, pressing the keys to his truck into your palm. 

“Go.” He whispered. “I’ll be done in a sec.” 

“But Frank, I-” 

“Go.” 

You crawled to your feet, limping toward the front door. Frank stayed perfectly still, imagining every awful thing he was going to do to the man that hurt you, until the sound of the truck door shutting indicated that you were safely away from the violence that haunted this house. 

Frank was on the guy in half a breath, pushing him so hard into the wall that the drywall cracked under the pressure. He pressed his palm up against the guy’s jaw, slamming his head into the wall again.  

“What? Now that you’re up against a real man, you don’t want to fight?” Frank sneered, tightening his hold on the man’s jaws. “Only a coward hits women.” 

Frank’s fist connected with his face, spraying blood across the tile beneath them. The guy crumpled to the floor, and Frank followed, hitting him again and again and again, until the man was unrecognizable. The man wheezed, barely breathing, but Frank wasn’t done.  

He slid the knife from his back pocket and plunged it into the man’s stomach, knowing immediately that he would never regret this blood being on his hands. He leaned in and whispered a promise that he would keep until the day he died. 

“If by some miracle you survive this, you better hope to God I don’t find you. You think this is bad? It could be so much worse. You never deserved her.”  

Frank pulled the blade from the guy’s stomach and wiped the blood on the man’s sleeve. Finally satisfied with his work, he made his way back toward the truck that held the most important thing he’d ever loved inside. 

- 

The drive back to Frank’s place was calmer, now that the immediate threat had been eradicated. You hadn’t said much of anything, instead curling into yourself, pressing your face into your palms and quietly crying. Frank didn’t know what to do, unsure of how to act around you after so long. It’d been so easy to be around you before – like breathing, he sometimes thought – but now, after everything you’d both been through, he struggled to find solid footing. 

“Are you taking me home?” you asked, lifting your puffy eyes to meet his across the truck cabin. 

“Yeah.” Frank nodded once. “To my place. Is that okay?” He added after a moment. 

“Yeah.” You looked at your lap, fiddling with your fingers. “I’m sorry if I-” 

“Don’t apologize for a damn thing. You didn’t do anything wrong.”  

You met Frank’s gaze. He was resolute in his statement, daring you to defy him. For a moment, the soft look in your eyes as you looked at him was enough to strip him to his roots. He felt nothing but an insurmountable love to have you back in his life again, even if it was under horrifying circumstances, even if it was only for tonight. He would accept any crumbs you offered of yourself and he’d cherish them forever. 

“What do I do now?” The question was barely audible, almost as if you were asking yourself more than you were asking him. The softness of your tone sent an ache through Frank’s tight chest. 

“Stay tonight. Shower, eat, rest. We’ll figure out what happens next tomorrow, okay?” 

You nodded but didn’t vocalize a response. When Frank looked over at you, he realized it was because you had begun crying again. The man hadn’t suffered enough, Frank thought. No amount of suffering would make up for the beautiful, broken girl crying in his truck right now. 

- 

Frank rested his head in his hands and listened. He listened to the sound of you moving around the bathroom, the sound of the shower starting, and the sound of you hissing as the water pelted the cuts and bruises littering your body. His jaw ached from clenching it so much tonight. He stood, looked around for something to keep his hands busy, adjusted the curtains by the window, and sat again.  

The unfamiliar territory between the two of you was unnerving. He didn’t know what to say or how to act around you anymore. When you’d climbed down from the passenger seat earlier, he’d been so afraid to startle you that all he could do was hover his hands around you just in case you slipped or needed his help. He hadn’t felt your touch since he’d pressed the truck keys into your palm back at the house. It felt like reaching for something that was just out of range, and he felt hollow when he thought about it for too long. Hence, the nervous pacing. 

When the shower water shut off, Frank’s stomach jolted. He couldn’t figure out why he was so nervous. It was you for Christ's sake. At one point, you’d been his best friend, and at every other point, you’d been the woman he had been in love with since the dawn of time. But still, the nerves were an unsettling wave of butterflies in his stomach. 

You cracked the door open and heat from the shower washed over Frank like a tidal wave. Or maybe it was the fact that you were dressed from head to toe in his clothes. It didn’t make you his, but Frank loved the sight of it, all the same. 

“Did you find everything?” Frank asked, because he couldn’t think of anything else to say, except that he loved you, and that would not be vocalized right now. 

“Yeah, Frankie.” A small smile crossed your face when you met his gaze. He saw through your mask. You could not hide from him. “Thank you for...everything. You really didn’t have to do all this.” 

Frank scoffed. “Of course, I did. I would do anything for you. You know that.” 

“I didn’t.” you started, tugging at your sleeves, “Know that, I mean. When I called earlier tonight, I didn’t know what would happen. If you would come or not. After...everything that went down, you know?” 

Frank knew what you meant, though he hadn’t wanted to revisit that memory tonight.  

“Listen,” he started, shaking his head, “I didn’t mean any of the stuff I said to you. I was jealous and hurt, but that’s not an excuse.” 

“It’s fine, Frank.” You waved it away, like it was nothing. 

“No, really. I’m sor-” 

“I forgave you as soon as-” 

“Would you just let me apologize? Please?” 

You smiled, a real genuine smile, and it sent those butterflies in Frank’s stomach into a flurry. It was the first time he’d seen you smile in so long. He couldn’t help himself from grinning along with you. 

“Sorry.” You murmured, grin widening. 

“That’s my line.” Frank retorted. 

“Sorry, again.” You snorted, and the laughter that bubbled out of you sounded like a thirty-piece orchestra in Frank’s ears. He could get drunk off your laughter, relishing in the warmth it brought him. 

When he looked at you again, a pained expression played on your face. 

“What is it?” he asked, softening his voice into a gentle murmur. 

“I can’t remember the last time I laughed.” You shrugged. 

Frank clenched his jaw at the thought of your ex-boyfriend. He eyed the black and blue bruises that marked your skin. 

“Was tonight the first time he hit you?”  

Your gaze locked with his, and he couldn’t stop himself from inching closer to you. He lightly wrapped his hands around yours, and the brush of your skin against his lit a spark so deep within him that his knees nearly buckled. You hadn’t responded to his question, and he couldn’t figure out if that was for your sake or his. 

“No one,” he hardened his features for a moment, a gentle reminder of who he was and what he would do to the people that hurt you, “will ever hurt you again. You hear me? I don’t care who it is. They touch you, they die.” 

An unbending will burned in his gaze, and you slowly nodded your head. Finally, your gaze lowered to where your hands were intertwined, noticing the broken skin over his knuckles. 

“Did you kill him?” You asked, voice so soft Frank had to strain his neck to hear you. 

“Maybe. I don’t know.” He replied, tugging his hands away from yours. Your delicate, intrinsic softness would not be subjected to his violent exploits. You tugged his hands back toward you, eyeing him with a harsh glare. 

“Don’t pull away.” You pleaded. “Just this once.”  

Frank warily placed his hands back into yours. The stark difference between his calloused, bruised, and ugly hands and your soft, innocent ones could’ve been a baroque painting. The thought jolted through him before he could stop it from forming. He did not want to taint your innocence with his blood-soaked hands. 

“Stop that.” You chastised, eyeing him knowingly. You had always been so great at reading what he was thinking. “You are capable of more than just violence, Frank Castle. And you saved my life tonight. You deserve everything you’ve ever wished for.” 

Frank lifted his gaze at your last sentence, unable to stop his eyes from wandering toward the person he’d always wished for but was too chicken to do anything about. 

“What’s that look mean?” You asked, knowingly. 

This was dangerous territory. You were towing a line that you and Frank had circled around since you’d met each other. Would tonight be another ‘almost’ to add to his endless cycle of memories with you? This was dangerous territory, but Frank didn't care anymore. 

“You know what it means.” He murmured, swallowing thickly. “What it’s always meant.” 

You didn’t reply for a moment, watching his expression morph from despair to something different, something heavier.  

“Yeah.” You finally said, inching your body closer to his. You were so close now that your chests were touching, and your lips were mere inches apart. “I know.” 

“Yeah?” He asked. He was so close now that he could smell the faint scent of his body wash on your skin. 

“Yeah.” Your chin dipped in a nod, and Frank was there to meet it. 

His lips captured yours in a kiss that melted away every bad thing that had ever happened between the two of you. You moaned into the kiss, allowing his tongue to brush over yours and into your mouth. He wrapped his arms around you, pulling you fully against him.  

It might’ve been ten minutes or two hours – you didn’t know or care – but the kiss deepened, and suddenly you were pulling Frank’s shirt up his torso and over his head. He gently led you backwards until the back of your knees hit the bed and you flopped down, pulling him down with you. 

Your lips remained connected as he undressed you, pulling every article of clothing from your body at an agonizing pace. When he finally pulled away to unbutton his jeans, the sight of yellowing bruises across your stomach paused his movements.  

“Not the first time, then?” He lightly brushed his fingers over the old bruises. The sight of them made him sick. 

“No.” You replied, voice soft. “Not the first time.” 

Frank sighed deeply, reminding himself that you were no longer in danger. He had saved you, and no one would ever touch you again. 

“Why’d you call me tonight?” He asked. It was a nagging question that had been bouncing around in his head since his phone had first rung so many hours before. There was probably a better time to ask, but he couldn’t help himself. If he’d been hitting you for this long, why’d it take you so long to call him for help? 

You looked up at him with such immense sadness that his chest reflectively tightened in response.  

“Because I missed you.” Your voice cracked when you said it. “And because I love you. And because I knew you’d keep me safe, even if you were still mad at me.” 

Frank looked down at you, unflinching in his gaze, and nodded. He was afraid if he spoke, he might let out the guttural sob that had formed deep in his stomach. He surged forward, pressing his lips to yours again. 

It was a hurried flurry of movement – the kiss had quickly developed into something more – and soon, Frank was pushing himself in, and in, and in to your core. You were warm and wet, and Frank was fighting for his life as you stretched around his hard cock. When he finally began thrusting deep inside of you, the only coherent thought that he could muster were the three words he had been so terrified to say to you all these years. 

“I love you.” He said as he thrusted into you. “I’ll always protect you. I love you so much.”  

You widened your legs, allowing him to thrust even deeper into you. He chanted your name like a mantra under his breath as he continued to drive himself into you. The look on your face was so incredibly intense that he had to shut his eyes for a moment and block out the feeling of your wet cunt clenching around his cock. A soft hand pressed against his cheek startled his eyes open. 

“You’re mine. And I’m yours.” You murmured, and it undid you both. Frank could barely hold himself above you, arms wobbling as he came so deep inside you that he was sure no one had ever coated your walls so thoroughly. You clenched around him, and it was dizzying. He’d never felt so full after giving all of himself away to someone. 

He collapsed next to you, cradling your head in his hands as you both returned to Earth. The sun crept across the room as the rest of New York woke for the day, unaware that Frank Castle’s entire world had just shifted in his tiny apartment in Hell’s Kitchen. He gazed at your fluttering eyelids, close to sleep now that the events of the night had caught up to you. He didn’t mind. You were here, and he was holding you in his arms, and you were his, and he was yours, and he didn’t mind it one bit. 

Tag List:

@xleiaorgana @mukbee @dilfs5678 @kokoterainonago666 @blackwidownat2814 @mymamalife @minervadashwood @emiemiemiii @h4rrys @messymissy @mylifeispainandiloveit @mossexe @fightmilk @spikedhe4rt @fictional-hooman @merleisapartygod @babyslyth @legocity2 @quackson03 @certifiedhunter @deliciousfestsalad @dumb-fawkin-bitch @americaarse @thatgirljayy @hiyabyeyababy @theesexystallion @scoliobean @myguiltypleasures21 @dnxgma @evyiione @gpenguin666 @desert-fern @day-dreaming-goddess @rayray787 @megmastersgf @alexxavicry @hallecarey1 @km-ffluv @chiaraxtargaryen @trulylavandedarling @D0wnbad @lilyevans1 @imagineadream @22carolina08 @definitelynotsugar @casualchaoticdevil @peachy-flxwr @nashja @xshewayout @blep--bloop @kpopgirlbtssvt

[hushed-chorus]

Hi everyone! I’m climbing out of my cave and scheduling this in advance to spread the good word about vampire angst. Because, as anyone who’s read my blog title knows, I am a fiend for vampire angst, and there is some cracking vampire angst in this fandom.

Here's a selection of fics that dive into the tasty vampire stuff, especially ones that come with a serving of ‘this sucks actually’. I love all of these, but I’m sure I’ve forgotten or missed other great fics, so please feel free to reblog with your own recs!

Also, since these fics all deal with how being a vampire sucks, I’d recommend checking the tags before diving in.

The Eternal Life of Baz Pitch by @monbons

I am asking you all, please, hop on board and join me in reading along with this WIP. Monbons has a wonderful writing style; well-paced and impactful. She’s made some inspired choices in this AU. Angsty, clever, and so, so engrossing. Tasty angst so far, and we still have many chapters to go!

burning pitch by stainedglassflood

Lamb is a character who really fascinates me. This ficlet imagines a conversation Baz and Lamb would have if Lamb discovered Baz was a mage under less bloody circumstance. This short and sweet fic is something of a hidden gem, and I’ll cry forever that this is a 600 word fic, not a 60k one.

Crowding out the Bad (with Good) by twigs_in_my_hair

Another WIP, and if you are a fan of lore, this is one for you. This AU involves Simon trying to improve his diet with the help of nutritionist (and reluctant vampire) Baz. Twigs devotes so much to exploring Baz’s feelings about his vampirism, and how it has left marks on his life, behaviour, etc. And, of course, there's a lovely bit of slow burn Snowbaz along the way!

Joy and Trust by @bookish-bogwitch

Bogwitch constantly surprises and impresses me with her range. This short (400 words), sweet and heartbreaking ficlet sees Baz receiving a Visiting during the events of Carry On. I love it so much.

Proof of Life by @roomwithanopenfire

What if Natasha Pitch survived the vampire attack, but Baz still got Turned? What would that mean for Baz and the World of Mages? In this WIP, it means a Baz who is even more angsty about being a vampire than he already is in canon—and with good reason. Added bonus is the consideration for the wider canon divergence. What would Watford be like if Natasha is still headmistress but Davy is the Mage? Very intriguing fic so far, especially now we’ve landed in eighth year!

This is where it ends by LakeWitch

The least Baz-focused on the bunch, this fic is about the Mage taking Old Family children prisoner for leverage and the aftermath. It sees Baz hit his lowest point (gave me the big good sads), and then follows how he and Simon recover from all they’ve been through. Love it. 

A Record of You and I by Sip_of_your_soul

Argh. I just can’t. This one hurt so good. Want to die a little inside for fun? Read this.

Thanks everyone, I'm eager to see any recs you wanna make! Tags below the cut!

@artsyunderstudy @facewithoutheart @captain-aralias @raenestee @cutestkilla

@ivelovedhimthroughworse @larkral @stitchyqueer @you-remind-me-of-the-babe

@ileadacharmedlife @confused-bi-queer @aristocratic-otter @whogaveyoupermission

@nightimedreamersworld @fatalfangirl @thewholelemon @onepintobean @shrekgogurt

@theearlgreymage @martsonmars @blackberrysummerblog @orange-peony @valeffelees

@j-nipper-95 @rimeswithpurple @wellbelesbian @imagineacoolusername

@youarenevertooold @iamamythologicalcreature @supercutedinosaurs @alexalexinii

@bookish-bogwitch @cosmicalart @bazzybelle @theotherhufflepuff

@that-disabled-princess @prettygoododds @mooncello @noblecorgi @roomwithanopenfire

@emeryhall @monbons

[joshlmbrt]

angsty promt “please stay” w eddie babyyy 🤍

send me in prompts! oooo how i love doing angst with eddie <3 thank u for ur requests, love (very sorry for this). w; character death aftermath, depression

the days felt longer, slower. days always mixed in with nights. the knot in your hair gave you a headache just thinking about brushing it out - it seemed too much all at once to do.

robin and nancy had tried their hardest to brush it out for you, but you’d start crying, asking - begging - them to leave you alone.

they wanted to stay, but for right now, they weren’t going to push you.

eddie’s shirt had been slowly loosing its scent and it made you cry tears that you didn’t even know you had left.

the blankets you’d stolen from the trailer didn’t smell like him either. or the pillows.

everything eddie was disappearing and you were mad no one else seemed to notice or seemed to not care.

there was something tugging at your hair that had woke you up, your eyes swollen and the headache that you had becomes tenfold when they open. you immediately close them again.

“this won’t do.”

your heart drops and your head lifts, looking over your shoulder.

it was eddie.

your eddie. a healthy eddie that you try to remember but all that comes to mind is a bloody and beaten hero that died for nothing.

“eds?” your voice cracks and you sit up. he’s all smiles when he sees your face.

“hi, sweetheart.”

there’s a fresh set of tears when you hear his voice again, hand hesitant as you reach out, afraid he’ll be gone the minute you touch him.

“you can touch me.” he nods.

your fingers slide over his cheek first, then down the slope of his nose. you let out a watery laugh, moving onto your knees and pulling him closer. your arms wrap around his neck, trying to blink away the tears.

his hand rubs up and down your back soothingly. “you can’t put your life on hold.”

your smile fades and you pull away slowly. his hand lifts, wiping the tear that falls down your cheek. “i’m.. i’m not.”

“i’m with you every step of the way, you know,” he says, dunking his chin to his chest. “i didn’t lie about that. i never lied about anything.”

you nod, your stomach sinking in when you feel your eyes burn. you wipe at your nose with the back of your hand. “everyone’s forgetting you. your scent is… it’s fading from…” your eyes stare down at his shirt then the sheets. “everything. i don’t like it. i don’t like how everything changing.”

“no one is forgetting anyone,” he says it with a force that makes your eyes shoot up and stare at him. “maybe you… you should talk with dustin. have a fun day out with him when you feel up to it. as for my scent…” he chuckles a bit, shrugging. “you have multiple shirts you can go through until it’s fully gone.”

the though makes your heart clench.

“please stay,” you whisper. “don’t leave me again. i can’t do this without you.”

he smiles, although it’s sad. “i have to leave. but i’ll always be here. around. you won’t see me, but you’ll feel me.”

you shake your head, dropping your chin to your chest as your shoulders shake. he lifts your face, wiping away your tears. “it’s okay… it’ll be okay.” he whispers.

your hands wrap around his wrists when you feel his lips connect with yours, a soft, slow kiss. he pulls away slowly, nudging your nose with his.

“maybe you can dream about me, yeah?”

“it won’t be the same.”

he smiles softly, nodding. “it will. trust me. i love you forever.”

“i love you.”

“i’m with you every step of the way, sweetheart.”

the alarm beeps and your eyes slowly peeking at the numbers.

2:35 in the afternoon.

there’s a scent that you ached for when you sit up and rub at your eyes. your hand drops and touches the flannel covers.

they were warm.

you stare at the phone on your nightstand, chewing at the inside of your cheek.

you reach for it, dialing a number and pressing the phone to your ear.

“hello?” it takes you a moment to reply. but you smile to yourself when you hear the familiar voice.

“hey, dustin.”

[strangermarvelss]

second best- e.m (pt 3)

Pairing: Eddie Munson x Cunningham!Female!Reader

Summary: with chrissy now off to college with her boyfriend, jason, eddie turns to you and wants to begin a relationship, making you feel a certain way about being his second choice

Warnings: angsty angst, second choice, shitty parents, eddie being a sweetie pants, confrontation, crying, happy ending

Request: Yes

Word Count: 2.8k

A/N: finally part 3 to second best! enjoy :)- sava

part one | part two | part three

The nagging was constant since your parents arrived back from their trip. Dropping Chrissy off brought up so many emotions for them, and you were the unfortunate winner of having to deal with the aftermath. It all started when you greeted them as they walked through the front door, the cracks in your chest becoming larger thanks to their words and Eddie’s actions over the past couple of weeks.

As summer grew closer to a close, your parents kept insisting you go out more and live your senior year to the fullest, attending football games and making friends with the jocks Chrissy left behind, or going to Starcourt and shopping for new outfits for the school year, which wasn’t starting for another two weeks. They were growing agitated by your constant presence, something you never really picked up on because you spent so much of your time with Eddie.

Eddie.

The metalhead had given you the space you asked for, calling every now and then to check on you and try to talk with you, only you kept your conversations sparse and brief. You could tell by the sound of his voice he was hurt, but you were hurting too, more so now that your parents were home and continuing to pressure you into becoming the perfect daughter you apparently never were.

The sad part? You missed the safe haven Eddie provided you over the years. It was always either him or Chrissy you would run to when things got bad, but a majority of the time it was Eddie. He knew your parents treated you unfairly when compared to Chrissy, which made being his second choice all the more hurtful.

You walk through the door of your home, shopping bags in hand as you toss your keys on the side table. Taking your mother’s suggestion, you went to Starcourt and cleared your head, grabbing a few new pieces for school that you wanted to go try on. Walking towards the kitchen, you hear a fit of laughter erupting from the dining room. You peak your head around the corner and see your parents and the next door neighbors sitting at the table, a feast sitting in front of them.

“Hey,” you let out timidly. You watch everyone’s heads turn to you and the neighbors greet you with a slight smile. 

“Sweetie what are you wearing? I thought you went to buy nice clothes,” your mother asks. You glance down at the Metallica that hung loosely on your upper body, completely forgetting you were wearing Eddie’s shirt until now. Keeping some of his clothing was such a force of habit, you’d began to forget what wasn’t already part of your wardrobe. 

“Uh, yeah. I got a few things from the Gap and JCPenny,” you explain, lifting the shopping bags into their sight. She rolls her eyes and leans in a bit to whisper across the table towards the woman neighbor.

“She’s still going through a phase, I suppose. Our Chrissy never had anything like that happen, always the perfect angel,” she lets out, not bothering to lower her tone all that much. You rest your arms at your sides, letting your shoulders slump a bit, until you meet the gaze of your father, his stern look boring into you, making you reposition yourself.

“Anyway, Y/N, you know Daniel, right? He’s going to be the new basketball team captain once the season starts, now that Jason Carver’s off to college with your sister,” The woman explains. You give Daniel a small wave, him nodding in response. You two had classes together and used to ride the same bus, so of course you remembered him. But he was a dickhead, much like the rest of the jocks at Hawkins High. He would always join in on the taunting of Eddie during lunch, which is when your feelings towards the boy grew bitter.

“See now Y/N, if you started to date Daniel here, you could be the new Chrissy and Jason, following right in your sister’s footsteps,” you mother smiled, taking the fork seated beside her and picking up the green beans on her plate.

“Are you going to join us dear? Maybe we can all catch up, and you can tell us what you’ve been up to,” your neighbor says. She was always so friendly towards you, which makes you wonder how her child could turn out so horrible. Your mother rolls her eyes and continues to eat.

“T-that’s okay, I grabbed something at the mall,” you lie. Taking a few steps back, you turn your body away from the dining room and make your way up towards your bedroom. Dropping the bags on your floor, you collapse on your bed, small tears pricking behind your eyes and threatening to break free.

You hated that you let their judgmental words and actions get the better of you. Chrissy was always the one to stand up to them in a way, being your protector when things got out of hand. It made you wonder how they viewed her as the perfect daughter when she could really bite back at times.

Picking up the phone you got to have in your room now that Chrissy moved out, you dial the number to the person you needed to talk with most, hoping there is some possibility that he would be able to come help you.

“Family Video, the place to find all your movie rental needs, this is Steve, how may I help you?”

“Steve? When do you get off tonight?” You ask, a sniffle escaping pass your lips.

“I close tonight, but is everything okay? Do I need to leave Robin to do it all alone tonight?” Steve asks.

“Uh no! You are definitely not doing that!” You hear Robin shout over the phone, making you chuckle slightly. 

“Okay, scratch that. But I can come by after? Like around 9:30?” He suggests. You appreciated the sentiment he was showing you, he’s always been a great support system, especially within the past few weeks. 

“No, it’s okay. I appreciate it though. I hope you both have an easy closing shift,” you tell them. You bid them farewell and hang up the call, blowing out a sigh you held deep within your lungs.

Other than Steve and Robin, you didn’t have many more friends. Nancy moved to Boston shortly after Chrissy left, Emerson’s classes starting soon, so she was no longer an option to help sooth the worries and judgements away. Your sister would know just how to comfort you in this kind of situation, and it took a lot not to go knocking on her bedroom door and wrapping your arms around her as you cry.

You pick up the phone once more, dialing the last number you thought you’d call today. The emotions your parents were bringing on were clouding your judgement, making you not think rationally. The hole is your heart was aching to be stitched together again, to have some kind of peace in your life once more, even if it did feel like it was still too soon.

You didn’t want to do it. Your head was screaming at you to say no.

Ring. Ring.

But your heart? It was telling you to keep the line going.

“Munson Residence! How may I assist you,” Eddie answers, a silly accent accompanying his words. If it weren’t for your sour mood, you’d laugh at his antics, something you’d always do. But today, with everything going on within your recent history, on top of your parents, it was not the time for it.

“I miss you,” you mumble out. 

The line was quiet. You could hear the static radiating through the phone, nerves building up more and more as you continued to wait for a response. 

“I miss you too, Y/N,” he finally lets out. You let out a few sniffles, his voice making you feel safe enough to show some kind of emotion, unlike your conversation with Steve. It was nothing against Steve, he just…he wasn’t Eddie.

“I need you Eds. Can I come over?” you ask, more sniffles quickly accompanying your words. You used to be able to just go over without even letting him know before, so asking felt like the most foreign feeling in the world.

“Of course, sweetheart. Door’s unlocked, always will be for you,” he answers, his voice soft and sweet. You place the phone back on its dock and grab your jacket, opening your door and making a haste exit out the front door, not that your parents would notice anyway.

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

The journey to Eddie’s was filled with silence, the occasional car passing by and owl cooing around you. You were lucky the walk to Eddie’s trailer wasn’t that bad, only about 30 minutes. It gave you a lot of time to think about just want you wanted to say to him. The past few weeks have been lonely, and despite your fight, you missed him terribly, even more so now that your parents were home. 

He was always your rock when things got bad. It became a ritual for you to just drop by his place and seek comfort from him when your parents were being assholes, and he would provide it. That’s what best friends do. So having him treat you like your parents did, just a replacement for Chrissy, felt horrible, and you really needed him to know that.

You walk up the stairs and unlatch the screen door to Eddie’s trailer, turning the knob on the other door and walking inside. You hear the soft sound of his tapes muffled behind the door of Eddie’s room. Not a lot has changed in the weeks of your absence from the trailer, a few new mugs added to Wayne’s collection and maybe a hat or two, but nothing wild. You loved the coziness of Eddie’s place, it felt warm and welcoming compared to your own.

“Eddie?” you call out, your hands wrapping around your body. The nerves you’d forgotten about slowly make their way up your spine, a chill cascading throughout your body as you watch Eddie open the door. The music is a lot quieter now, Eddie having turned it down before opening up. His hair is a bit disheveled, and he has dark circles with bags under his big brown eyes. A frown begins forming on your lips, seeing the state he’s in, what hell he’s been going through with the time you’ve taken away from him.

He’s quick to walk over to you. His feet carry him in an instant, only mere inches from your form. You look up to him, the tears you managed to fight off for so long finally coming to the surface, your face crinkling as your hands come up to muffle your sobs. Eddie wraps his arms around you, bringing you close to his chest as he buries his head in your hair. All the words you had planned to say suddenly left your mind, his touch against you turning your brain to utter mush.

“They’re so fucking cruel, Eds. I hate it there,” you tell him through broken sobs. He rubs your back, mumbling incoherent phrases in your ear as he continues to hold you close. Your arms find their way around his torso, squeezing him and pulling him closer to you.

“I’m sorry. I’m so sorry you have to keep putting up with that, sweetheart,” he tells you. You retreat from his touch a bit, peering up at his face through your soaked lashes. He takes his thumb and wipes away your tears, giving you a small smile. “I’m also sorry about everything I did to you a few weeks ago.”

“Eddie-“

“No, Y/N, please, I need to get this out there. I was an absolute jackass for how I treated you. I should’ve known better, and I’ve had a lot of time to think about us during our time apart. And I know now that what I was trying to show you a few weeks ago wasn’t a mistake. I tried to kiss you because I love you, like really love you,” he explains to you. You feel your breath hitch in your throat, his revelation throwing you. You were emotional and/or mind was running a mile a minute, but you couldn’t have missed those words even if you tried.

Eddie loved you.

“I-I don’t understand. Eds, you love Chrissy…” your voice trails off, looking to the floor as the crystal clear memories of a few weeks ago flood your mind. You feel Eddie’s fingers tug at your chin, forcing you to look up at him gently.

“The love I feel for Chrissy is very different from the love I feel for you, sweetheart. I thought that was what I wanted, but being without you these few weeks? I’ve been in hell, and I didn’t realize how vital you were in my life until I didn’t have you. You’re the only person in the fuckin’ town who gets me, who really sees me. And you’re my biggest supporter, and I could never live with myself if I didn’t let you know how much you really mean to me.”

“Eds, I had no idea,” you say breathlessly. You wipe away a few more tears you felt spill over, a smile creeping up on your face. “You really mean all that?”

“Every single word. You and I, we’re gonna get far away from this town. You won’t have to deal with your parents anymore, and we can go somewhere we can be free to do whatever we fuckin’ want. It’ll just be me and you, and Chrissy and Jason can visit whenever they want. W-we can get a dog or cat or whatever! All I know is I want you by my side, Y/N. Forever,” he reassures you, his hand resting on your cheek and brushing the hair out of your face. 

Eddie really loved you.

“You have no idea how much I want that Eddie,” you tell him, standing on your tip toes to wrap your arms around his neck and pulling him in for a deep hug. His hands wrap around your torso once more, squeezing you tight, as if you’ll fly away if he lets go. He pulls back, looking at you with sad, pleading eyes.

“Please, Y/N, I really hope you can forgive me for how I acted. I don’t ever want to see you hurt like that night again, or the day at Family Video. Hell, even seeing you like this tonight is breaking my cynical little heart. I get it if you still hate me, really I will,” he lets out, tears of his own forming in his eyes as he lets out a small chuckle. He was never good at staying serious for too long, and showing emotions was hard for him, given everything he’s been through in his life. You smile up at him and rub away his own tears, his dimples coming to life at the feeling of your soft skin on his. 

"I could never hate you Eds. Never," you tell him. You lean forward and press a kiss to his cheek, pulling away to see his eyes wide with happiness at your gesture. You smile and nuzzle back into him, giving his body another squeeze. You knew Eddie was a man true to his word, and hearing him speak so passionately to you and tell you just how much you mean to him made your heart grow three times its original size. It felt nice finally having someone love you the way you love them, no nasty comments or heartbreak would come from him, not anymore at least. 

Eddie pulls away from you and takes your hand, leading you towards his couch and plopping down, gesturing for you sit down next to him. You swing your legs across his lap instead, a laugh leaving Eddie’s mouth and you snuggle him close. 

“It’s just gonna be me and you, baby. I promise I’ll give you a better life with what I can, alright?” He tells you. You smile at him and go to kiss his cheek again, but he’s quick to whip his head and meet your lips. You giggle into his mouth, leaning back and resting your head against his shoulder. The countdown to graduation officially began, ready to go and explore the rest of the world with the man sitting next to you, ready to finally feel what true happiness feels like.

[multi-fan-dom-madness]

Howdy! @wings-and-beskar here, calling in with a little kiss prompt request!

The “desperate kiss as if they are convinced they’ll slip through each other’s fingers” immediately made me think of Hunter, but so did “a kiss where they’re both covered in blood” and now I can’t decide….

One has great angst potential, but the other one is could be great for Spooky season 🤔

I’ll let you decide because I can’t 😅 but as always, absolutely no pressure to do this!

Thank yoooou 💜

hiiii friend, I absolutely loved both of these prompts so I included them both! there's just something about Hunter that lends to incredibly angsty yet incredibly passionate encounters. thanks for this ask! <3

Endure and Survive

Summary: You're forced into the worst situation, and Hunter finds you in the aftermath.

Warnings: gn!reader; lots of blood, semi-graphic violence, (justified) murder/killing in self-defense, more blood, kissing while covered in blood, desperation. did i mention the blood? this little blurb low-key inspired by Joel finding Ellie after she killed David.

Word Count: 510

You’re trembling. Adrenaline pulses through you, vibrating in every cell. Yet you can’t make yourself stop—the wet crunch of bone and brain does little to slake the deep, primal need to survive. The heft of the blunt weapon in your slick hands continues to swing down, over and over and over. 

Someone is screaming. You realize belatedly that it’s you, your throat catching, voice cracking. 

He was going to kill you. Or worse. Your only option was to kill him first.

Tears stream down your face, mixing with the splattering of blood with each blow of the weapon. Your chest is tight with sobs, desperation clawing you from the inside out. Or maybe that’s just the smoke choking your breath.

Dimly, you’re aware of someone calling your name. The club comes down again, again, again, until—

A warm pair of hands gently covers your own. You jerk in surprise, spinning, ready to attack the new threat. Instead, you come face-to-face with familiar gray eyes. 

Hunter’s face is streaked with blood, too. It drips from his chin—it slicks his fingers where he works to pry the club from your aching hands. His eyes are wide and glassy, but his lips move as he murmurs your name. 

“Sweetheart,” he rumbles. His voice is smoky like the fire around you, warming you, burning you. “I’m here. You’re safe. Give me the club, baby.” 

“B-Bu-But—” You can’t string together thoughts, let alone words. He was going to kill me. I killed him. I killed him. 

“I know,” Hunter says, and later, you’ll realize he does know exactly the fear coursing through you. Your hands are suddenly empty and weightless. The club thunks where he tosses it, leaving a red trail behind it. 

And then his arms are around you. He’s solid. Warm. Strong. Safe. You wrap shaking arms around his neck and bury your face in his neck. Sobs wrack your body. 

“I’ve got you, sweetheart.” 

“He- He—” 

“Shhh.” Hunter gently pulls back, cradling your face in his hands. Blood meets blood. “It’s over. You’re safe now.” 

You don’t know what comes over you. All you know is Hunter is safe, and his embrace is where you feel safest. Surging forward, you press your lips to his. Fear continues to pump through you—a new fear. Of losing him. Losing yourself. 

Groaning against you, Hunter tilts your head for better access, his tongue desperately licking into your mouth as if to memorize every inch, every curve, ridge, and slope. You taste salt and copper, tears and blood, and whine. You can’t get him close enough—the hard plastoid armor protecting his body keeps you out, even as you scrabble and claw at the edges to tug him impossibly close. 

Judging by how hard he grips your hip, the back of your neck, your entire soul, he’s just as afraid of the alternate outcome of this mission gone terribly awry.

When you pull away, panting for breath, his mouth is smeared red. You don’t stop shaking for a long, long time, bright crimson splattered across your vision.

Pasta: @dystopicjumpsuit @clonemedickix @freesia-writes @littlemissmanga @wolffegirlsunite @anxiouspineapple99 @wings-and-beskar @sinfulsalutations @523rdrebel @sunshinesdaydream @moonlightwarriorqueen @sev-on-kamino @starrylothcat @deejadabbles @starqueensthings @mandos-mind-trick @idontgetanysleep @eyeluvmusic21 @wizardofrozz @mythical-illustrator @sleepycreativewriter @bobaprint @thorsterstrudle @droids-you-are-looking-for @goblininawig @cw80831 @dreamie411 @jedi-hawkins @lune-de-miel-au-paradis @9902sgirl

[cowgurrrl]

Pine Point

Pairing: rockstar!joel miller x actress!reader

Author’s note: 😮‍💨 (ps fic is named after this song)

Summary: You and Joel deal with the aftermath of your accident [4.7k!!]

Warnings: hospital settings, a very quick mention of a miscarriage not experienced by the reader, questionable Hollywood motives once again, quick mention of Ellie’s foster home situation, kinda angsty actually, arguing (oops), language, not a super cohesive ending

Joel stays with you all night and into the morning. You're not sure if he got any rest while sitting in the uncomfortable chair next to your bed, but you know that he never let go of your hand. Every time you woke up from a bad dream or because a nurse was prodding at you, the callouses on his hands helped remind you that you were safe. He asked questions about your injuries and what recovery would look like for you. He listened, watched, and even recorded the nurse's voice (with her permission, of course) so he could reference it later. You wonder if he did the same thing when Sarah was born. You imagine him, eighteen years younger, furiously scribbling down notes on the best way to swaddle his newborn daughter. The image makes you smile, and when Joel asks what you're smiling about, you shake your head and mumble, "Nothing."

Carolina, being the goddess that she is, stops by your house to get you a clean change of clothes before stopping by her own house for Ryan. Joel helps you change into sweatpants and a flannel button-up from your house. He recognizes it but doesn't say anything or try to take it back; he actually smiles when he pulls it out of the bag. "Looks better on you," he mumbles as he kisses you and tugs the fabric over your shoulders, shaky fingers buttoning the shirt closed for you. The air seems lighter, and the hospital less stuffy in the morning light. Your body is still sore and aching as you sit on the edge of the hospital bed, but you're in better spirits. You're ready to go home and put this all behind you.

"Hey there, stranger," a gravelly voice says, and you turn to see Carolina wheeling Ryan into your room in a wheelchair. Your tear ducts betray your better mood, and you immediately burst into tears at the sight of him. He's bruised and swollen and stitched up, but he's alive. You step off the bed with Joel's help and bend to hug him, sobbing into his shoulder. You think Carolina and Joel exchange hugs and cheek kisses, too, but you can't see through bleary eyes. Ryan reaches up and smooths your hair down like he does and has done every single time he's ever held you while you cried. For some reason, the gesture makes you even more emotional. "I knew I looked bad, but I didn't think it'd be enough to make you cry." He says, and you laugh.

"Shut up," you sniffle as you step back to look at him, carefully wiping tears from your puffy face. Ryan grabs your hand and kisses the top of it. "Besides, I look like shit, too."

"Never." He smiles, and you take a deep breath. You look up at Carolina and swallow thickly. She looks exhausted, her hazel eyes more brown than anything under the hospital lights, and her lips are cracked from pulling at the skin all night. You stare at her, and she stares back, and something unspoken passes between you. Joel keeps you upright, and Ryan holds your hand in his as you hug her as tight as you can and fight more tears. She rubs your back and gently rocks you back and forth like a baby. You've always said Ryan and Carolina were your Mom and Dad friends because they are so parental and nurturing, but it feels especially true now.

"I'm so sorry." Your voice catches in your throat, and you feel her shake her head.

"You have nothing to be sorry for. You're not the one who ran the red light." She says.

"But, I should've been paying attention. I should've seen him coming. I should've,"

"You're both safe. You protected Ryan the best you could and brought him home to me. There is nothing more I could've asked of you, okay? "

"He could've died," you say. Carolina says your name quietly, like she's scolding you, and pulls your face out of her neck, her hands framing your face. Ryan squeezes your hand, and you pinch your thigh with your other hand to stop crying.

"This was an accident. You didn't get in the car thinking someone was gonna hit you, right?" She asks, and you shake your head. "But when you did get hit, the first thing you did was check on him. You did everything possible to make sure he was taken care of because you are a good fucking friend. Maybe one of the best. So, I don't want to hear you apologizing because I should be thanking you." She hugs you again, not hard enough to hurt but enough to make you feel like she's pressing all your broken pieces together again. 

You could probably count on one hand the number of times she's hugged you like this. Once when she and Ryan got married, and you managed to keep her divorced parents from fighting the whole night with copious amounts of liquor and strategic pulls to the dance floor. Once when she had a miscarriage about a year before they had Elizabeth, and you flew home early from shooting in Maine to be with them. You weren't supposed to see them for another two months, and she broke down the second you stepped into their bedroom. And once, when your childhood dog died, and you couldn't make it home in time to say goodbye. Pieces of each of you that you never thought would ever come close to resembling what they used to have been meticulously pulled back together by each other. You can't go back and stop the accident from happening, but slowly, you can let yourself be put back together. 

"I love you," you whisper, and she kisses your temple.

"I love you, too." 

After a few more minutes of crying and hugging, Carolina and Ryan go home. You promise to come over and see them once you feel a little stronger, but they don't rush you. Joel hands you a tissue once they're down the hallway, and you smile before taking and wiping it under your eyes and nose. 

"Feel better?" He asks, and you nod. You step into him and rest your head on his chest. It's partially so you can be close to him and partially because your body hurts too much to stay upright anymore. 

"Thank you," you say. He kisses the top of your head and tucks your hair behind your ears so he can see you clearly.

"You don't have to thank me."

"I want to," you look up at him, and he smiles. Your phone buzzes on the side table, and you reach for it, but Joel stops you. His smile has dropped, and he suddenly looks worried. You furrow your brows and glance between him and your phone. "Joel, what's up?"

"Mel called this morning," he says, and your heart immediately sinks. "Um, she asked if you and Ryan would be ready to do reshoots in two weeks." You nod and bite the inside of your cheek before laughing. You feel crazy standing there, laughing so hard that the ache in your chest blossoms into sharp pain. Joel says your name softly, and you shake your head.

"I just had the scariest experience of my life, and the only thing she called to ask about was my fucking reshoot schedule?"

"I told her to wait."

"No, that's not how it works with her. She needs an answer immediately, or she doesn't get auditions, and if she doesn't get auditions, then I don't work, and she drops me," you scrub a hand down your face and take a deep breath. "I'll call her when I get home."

"What're you gonna say?"

"I'm gonna say yes."

"What?" He asks. "You just said this was the scariest experience you've ever had, and you wanna just go back to work?"

"I don't have a choice. The entire schedule gets thrown off if we don't go in and do whatever they need us to do. Thousands of people are relying on us so they can make money to feed their families. If I say no, production gets halted, it takes longer to get the movie to screens, and we lose money," you shrug. "And they'll put makeup on the bruises and stuff. It'll be like it never even happened. Just how they want it."

"You don't have to go through with this. I'm sure Mel would understand." He insists. 

"You don't know Mel, then," you say. "I'll message her later. It's easier to just shut up and do it than fight about it."

"But-"

"It's fine, Joel. Please, just drop it." You blame your brain pulsing against your skull and the searing pain in your knees for snapping at him. It's not what you wanted to say, but you're so tired. And angry. And in pain. You pull away from him and sit back down on your hospital bed as a nurse comes in with your discharge paperwork. She's incredibly cheerful for ten in the morning. It almost hurts your head having to listen to her describe different types of infection and how to prevent it. Joel nods as she speaks, obviously taking in every piece of information he can and clutching the paperwork to his chest. 

"Other than that, I think you guys are good to go. Do you have a way of getting home?" The nurse asks you.

"I'm takin' her back to my house," Joel answers, and you have to bite your tongue before you say something about him speaking on your behalf. The nurse leaves you with a wheelchair so you don't have to walk all the way to the car, and you look at Joel.

"I can take care of myself,"

"I know you can," he says as he begins gathering your things around the room. "I just wanna take care of you, too." He's being incredibly kind and helpful, you realize that, but that does nothing to stop your frustration with the whole situation. 

Mel will always be Mel, this much you concluded years ago. But Joel butting into your professional life feels like a step too far. You know this business like the back of your hand. He doesn't. It's unfair for him to try to tell you how to deal with your agent when he doesn't know the repercussions. He doesn't understand just how many people are relying on you and Ryan to come back to set for a few reshoots. It would literally waste hundreds of thousands of dollars in studio money to push this back. Answering the nurse's question without consulting you first did nothing to make you feel better. 

Joel seems to notice the silence filling the space between you at the same time as you because he turns and leans down so he can look you in the eye. All your things are stuffed into the huge bag Carolina fished from your closet, and the hospital room looks identical to when you arrived. Joel takes a deep breath and grinds his teeth as he thinks.

"Please, let me take care of you." He says quietly, his tone gentle and borderline begging. Nobody's taken care of you during a sickness or an injury since you left your parent's house. Especially after you started becoming more famous, you didn't want anyone to see you in that vulnerable state and exploit it. People like you are expected to suck it up, keep going and hope it'll go away in a week or two. 

This is different. This is letting Joel assume responsibility for you for at least a few days, something you're sure you'll feel horrible about after the fact. This is staying at his house, eating his food, and sleeping in his bed because you're too wobbly to do those things alone. This is trusting him way more than you ever have. But he wants to. He told you he does. He took notes on how to change the bandages on your fucking stitches. He obviously cares. So, why does this feel so hard? You sigh and swallow your pride, and nod.

"Okay."

Joel's house is not what you expected it to look like. Most musicians you know stick to a very sleek, very boring black and white theme for their homes. White couch, black coffee table, white rug, black piano, white walls, black art. It's typical and almost a running joke between you and your friends each time you end up in a musician's house, but Joel's is different. His house looks lived in with scattered shoes by the door, backpacks slung over chairs, and colorful art on the walls. Some frames depict vast Texas landscapes or longhorns mean mugging the camera, while others are just abstract, bright paint splashes. There are smaller ones, too, with Ellie's loopy signature at the bottom. The couch is oversized and plush, with pillows and blankets nearby for movie nights. Report cards and family pictures hang on the fridge via silly magnets from different states and countries. You realize it feels like a real home after your first night.

You've gotten into a routine by the third day at Joel's house. Joel will wake up before you, sneak out of bed to make breakfast, and gather the pills you need to take to get through the day. Sometimes, he brings it to you, and other times, he helps you down the stairs and into the kitchen. You'll drink coffee and eat breakfast together as the sun slowly peeks over the Los Angeles skyscrapers. After you eat, he'll check your stitches and change the bandage to ensure they're healing correctly. Then, you'll just sit together and hold hands until one of the girls stirs awake, and you get to watch Joel be a dad. 

Sarah is the next one up every morning, but especially this morning, walking down the stairs a full hour and a half before school starts and giving Joel the rundown of her schedule for the day as he makes her breakfast. She asks how you're feeling and then makes sure her dad gave you your medication. You really can take it yourself, but watching them work together to make sure you're alright is sweet. They tease each other for a while before Joel checks his watch and curses under his breath, making his way to the stairs after kissing your and Sarah's foreheads. 

"I'm surprised he doesn't just yell up the stairs for her. That's what my dad used to do." You say as you sip what's left of your coffee, and Sarah shrugs.

"He doesn't yell very often. It scares Ellie. Besides, she wouldn't wake up even if he did." She says nonchalantly, and you immediately want to stuff the words back down your throat. 

"I'm sorry."

"For what? You didn't know," she shrugs, and you shake your head. "In the wise words of Hank Miller," she says before assuming a slouched posture and putting a hand on your wrist. "You're too hard on yourself, darlin'." You laugh at her Texas accent but still can't shake the feeling that you keep getting this— your relationship with the girls— wrong. 

"Well, your grandfather sounds like a very smart man."

"And he's right, y'know," she says, looking at you with those beautiful brown eyes. You wonder if she can see right through you like Joel can. "The whole time you've been here, you keep apologizing."

"I only apologized once this morning."

"Yeah, to me. How many times have you apologized to my dad?" She asks, raising her eyebrows, and you sigh. "It was a family decision to have you come stay with us. Three out of three Millers voted yes. I promise it's really okay."

"It's not that." 

"Then, what is it?" 

"I don't... I've never..." You struggle with the words. "I've never dated someone with kids, and I don't want to overstep or make you guys feel like I'm taking your dad away from you. I don't know how to do this, so I keep saying things and then just feeling stupid or like I messed up. Like I should've remembered the thing about Ellie's foster homes." You don't know why you're disclosing all the information to an eighteen-year-old, but she seems receptive. 

"Ellie doesn't want any of us to treat her differently because of her past, and I'm pretty sure if you tried, she'd rip you a new one. The fact that you're even trying makes such a difference. My dad has dated... some really not great people he never even told about us. But not only do you know about us, you care about us enough to freak out about us, which is totally unnecessary, by the way," she says. "My dad, Ellie, and I are a team, and we have been for a really long time, so we were a little worried when he told us he was dating again. But he's so happy. Like annoyingly happy." You both laugh at that and feel the weight on your shoulders ease off. 

"And Ellie and I kinda agreed that as long as you made my dad happy, we'd find a way to be happy for him, but you make it pretty easy. I like having you around. We both do."

"Yeah?" You ask, and she hums with a big smile on her face. You bump her shoulder with your own and smile too. "I like having you around, too." 

"So, no more worrying about us, okay?" 

"I can't guarantee anything, but thank you. I really appreciate you saying all that." 

"You're welcome." She says as you wrap an arm around her shoulder and kiss her temple. Joel walks back into the kitchen with a knowing look but doesn't say anything, and you wonder how much he heard. A groggy Ellie, still in her pajamas, trails behind him and blindly reaches for the orange juice in the fridge. 

"Oh, motherfucker," Ellie mutters as she sloshes around the last inch of orange juice. She holds up the mostly empty container and gives Joel a deadly serious look. "This is child abuse."

"That ain't child abuse," Joel says, already halfway to the garage. Ellie rolls her eyes before landing on you and softening.

"How're you feeling?" She asks, and you laugh.

"Better after watching you fuck with your dad."

"He's easy to fuck with," she says as the garage door opens again and Joel's footsteps get closer. "Watch this." 

"Here you go," Joel says, handing Ellie a new container of orange juice. She furrows her eyebrows and looks at him.

"I didn't ask for this."

"What? Yes, you did."

"No, I didn't."

"Oh, my God, Dad's losing it." Sarah chimes in. Joel looks confused and like he's genuinely trying to remember if Ellie asked for it, and you can't stop the snort from leaving you.

"You little shit," Joel says, making Ellie laugh. Then, in the blink of an eye, Joel tickles Ellie, and her screeching laughter fills the kitchen. You and Sarah laugh, too, especially when the laughter turns into squeaks. Ellie tries to slip out of his grip, but he picks her up, hauls her over his shoulder, and makes for the backdoor. 

"Joel Miller, do not throw your daughter in the pool!" You yell, and he groans before turning back around and dumping a still giggling Ellie on the couch.

"You win this round, kid," Joel points in her face before kissing her cheek. "Alright, we're gonna have to leave for school soon. Can you be ready in thirty minutes?" 

"Yes, I'm not Sarah."

"Hey!" Sarah shouts as Ellie runs back up the stairs to get dressed, giggling the whole way to her room.

As you and Sarah talk about school, Joel puts eggs, bacon, and toast on a plastic plate for Ellie to eat in the car, forever worried about her missing meals. He takes a little longer than he needs to so he can watch how you two interact, his eyes twinkling in the sunshine. You and Sarah have been friends from the jump, but you have to admit that there's something a little more sacred about her letting you into her space. You and Sarah do your best to ignore his puppy dog eyes, but when Ellie comes downstairs with her backpack slung over her shoulder, she makes a face.

"Why do you look like that?" She asks, making Joel quickly snap out of it.

"Why do you look like that?"

"That's so funny. Did you come up with that yourself?" She rolls her eyes. Joel does a squeaky, high-pitched voice to mock her as he grabs his keys from the counter. He walks over and pecks your lips before walking to the front door.

"Alright, Miller bus is leavin'! Let's roll out!" He yells. The girls bid you a quick goodbye before chasing after him, leaving you completely alone in the house. 

After putting your dirty dishes away, you venture through the house now that you feel a little stronger. You start at the fridge, looking through all the little pictures and magnets deemed worthy of being seen daily. You decide that your favorite is the one of Joel, Tommy, and the girls at the Grand Canyon. It looks like it was taken a few years ago based on the babyish plumpness of Ellie's face and the braces on Sarah's teeth as she smiles. Joel is squinting in the sun, but he's so completely in his element in the desert with his family, hands on the girls' shoulders. It's pinned to the fridge with a Washington, D.C. magnet depicting the Lincoln Memorial. 

As you glide through the house, you keep finding new favorites. Many other celebrities you've met either don't hang up their family photos because they run the risk of ruining the aesthetic of their home or because they don't want people to see them. Joel, however, has massive frames holding multiple pictures of his family throughout the years. A picture of a much younger Joel with a baby strapped to his chest sets you back on your heels because of just how little he looks. He can't be older than twenty-three as he poses, one hand on baby Sarah's back and the other holding a diaper bag. You watch them grow alongside each other as you move down the wall. 

You see pictures from an elementary school career day where Joel and Sarah pose with different tools. Pictures of Tommy, Joel, and Sarah lined up for what looks like a Fourth of July parade when Sarah was a toddler, her chubby hands latched to her dad's as she sat on his shoulders. Then, suddenly and without warning, a round little face framed with wavy brown hair enters the pictures, but it feels like she was always meant to be there. There's a framed photo strip of the three of them making goofy faces at the camera and pretending their dad isn't cool as he kisses their cheeks and rests his head on Ellie's shoulder. You feel almost emotional looking at the worn photos and seeing their love for each other transcend a camera lens. Though, a buzzing in your pocket stops you from thinking any more about it, and you roll your eyes as you read a text from Melanie.

Heard what happened. I'm so sorry :( I got all those pictures from the crash taken down 👍 Still good for reshoots in two weeks?

You sigh and type out a response as the front door opens and Joel walks back in. 

"What're you doin'? I thought you'd be in bed." He says, and you shake your head.

"I wanted to snoop, and I'm responding to Melanie about scheduling." 

"Oh, good. When are you gonna move reshoots to?" He asks as he walks over, his keys still jingling in his hands from dropping off the girls. 

"I'm not moving them."

"What? I thought you were gonna try and change it." He says as you press send on your message confirming the dates and look up at him, confused. 

"I never said that." 

"We talked about it at the hospital."

"Yeah, but I never said I'd change the time just because you didn't agree." You say, and he scoffs. You tuck your phone away and cross your arms over your chest while he searches your face like he's waiting for the punchline to a joke he's never heard. When it doesn't come, he shakes his head.

"Wow." He breathes, and you furrow your brows.

"What?"

"Nothing."

"Something."

"I just can't believe you didn't even try to fight her on it." He says in a frustrated tone, and you give him three beats of silence to rethink what he just said. 

"Melanie can be a bitch, but she's also responsible for my career. If I fuck her over, I fuck myself over." You say when he doesn't backtrack.

"Is that what she told you?" 

"Joel," you warn, but he doesn't stop.

"If you keep goin' like this, it's gonna kill you. Do you realize that?" He asks incredulously, and you throw your arms up.

"We are in entirely different worlds when it comes to our careers, so can you please stop telling me how to run mine? I don't get on you this much about your job."

"Because I don't work myself to the bone like you do."

"You're right. You don't," you snap, and he takes a deep breath. You're not quite sure where to go from here. You don't know if this counts as a fight, but you know you feel bad. "I already confirmed. I can't change it now." You say softer than the harshness that took over your voice moments ago.

"Okay," he nods. "Then, 'm comin' to set with you because we both know that if somethin' goes wrong, Mel isn't gonna do shit to help you." He says, all of his frustration pointed at your manager now, and you want to argue that what he said isn't true but can't find the words. You think it's because, deep down, you know he's right, but you won't say it. Not now. So, instead, you just nod and unclench your jaw.

"Fine." You say as you pull out your phone to add an addendum to your previous confirmation. Joel walks into the kitchen and puts his keys on the counter before leaning against it, arms crossed over his chest. Once you're done typing, you look up and stare at him, watching the gears in his head shift.

"I really thought the car accident would've made you wanna slow down or, at least, take the time to recover. Make you see there's more to life than just work." He scoffs, and you bite your tongue so hard you taste blood. You move from your place by the photos and reach the bottom of the stairs, fighting tears, before you turn to him. He hasn't moved, but he's watching you.

"I hope you know that was a really fucking shitty thing to say to me. I would never take something like this and spin it against you because I care about you."

"I do care about you."

"Then, let me do my fucking job and stay out of my way." You walk up the stairs with a little stomp in your step. It feels very juvenile and petulant, but you're pissed and embarrassed. Who is he to dictate what you do and when? It's none of his fucking business how you run your own career. Who is he to make you feel bad for working? To fight with you about something that doesn't concern him? 

Still, even as these angry thoughts spiral in your mind, you cry the second you close the bedroom door behind you. The physical pain, nightmares, arguments, and guilt eat you from the inside out. And as you sit in that big house overflowing with love so real you can feel it in the floorboards and the man who showed up at the hospital for you downstairs, you feel completely and utterly alone for the first time since you signed your name on that stupid contract. 

[frankenkyle19]

Questions Answered

request: I hope this isn't too dark for you to write but re h/c requests (inspired by your latest Kyle fic): Female reader freaking out as she finds hickeys and bruises all over Kyles neck. She accuses him of cheating and wants him to leave her place immediately. The next morning she finds Kyle cowered in front of her door, soakingly wet from having slept outside in the rain after he had been assaulted by his mom once again. Reader finds out what really happened and feels the worst. Kyle is barely lucid from the brutality of the assault and just hazily tells the reader that he is so sorry.

word count: 982

warnings: SA (please please take this seriously, you’ve been warned), mentions of abuse, mentions of Kyles actual shit stain ass crack of a ‘mother’, overall really angsty and upsetting

Cheating had never been a thing to cross your mind. Not Kyle, not your sweet sweet Kyle. But the marks on his neck were obvious, and they weren’t from you. You wanted to give him the benefit of the doubt, but how could you? You decided to confront him. 

You two were snuggled up next to each other on your couch, watching a movie. Your stomach churned as you tried to find the strength to open your mouth. 

“Kyle-“ you started, voice shaking as you turned over to look at him, scooting away from him so you two weren’t touching anymore. 

He looked over at you curiously, head tilted to the side, big doe eyes showing some confusion. Why had you pulled away from him? 

“What’s up?” He asked curiously, blinking a few times. What had happened? Oh god, what had you found out about? Kyle was a very open person, never kept secrets from you. Except for one, which was arguably the worst of all. He didn’t tell anyone, not just you. How do you tell someone that your own mother did the unthinkable to you? His stomach dropped as your hand reached up, pulling down the collar of his shirt, eyes glancing over the marks on his neck. Shit. 

“What is this, Kyle? I mean- why? Are you cheating on me?” Tears formed in your eyes, threatening to spill as you looked at him for some sort of answer.

“No! No baby I would never-“ he stammered, sitting up and pulling the collar of his shirt back over his neck. Shit shit shit, he thought he was doing a good job covering them up. 

“Is this why you haven’t wanted to have sex with me?” You continued, anger beginning to boil up inside you.

“No!” He denied again. How could he deny it when there was physical proof?

“No you- that-“ he couldn’t find the words, eyes wide and full of fear. No. He couldn’t lose you. Not like this.

“Get out of my fucking house, Kyle.” You said, voice scarily calm as you stood up and began walking to the door.

“Please- please don’t make me leave-“ he begged on his hands and knees, tears streaming from his cheeks as he looked up at you. You simply opened the door before crossing your arms.

“Get out, Kyle Spencer.” You never used his last name, so he knew you were serious. 

He shakily stood up, grabbing his bag before he walked out of the door, turning to look at you before you slammed the door in his face before sliding down the wall, putting your head in your hands as you cried. Why had he done this? He’d never do this to you.

Meanwhile, while you cried and tried to grapple with this newfound realization, Kyle had no choice but to go back home, where he was greeted by his mother. He cried to her, wanting to seek some sort of comfort despite how toxic and messed up the situation was.

If he was looking for comfort in her, he was definitely let down. She had said awful things about him. How no one else could love him but her and that she knew this would happen. That he was weak. That he’d never find someone. Then the cycle continued. She assaulted him and left him alone to deal with the aftermath. That was it for him. He couldn’t stay here anymore. He packed a bag and drove over to your house. He was too afraid to knock, knowing you probably wouldn’t answer anyway. He was in for a long night.

When you woke up in the morning, you heard a quiet noise outside your open window. Deciding to check it out you peeked out the front door, eyes wide when you saw what appeared to be a person laying on your doorstep. Not just a person. It was Kyle. Kyle was laying on your doorstep, curled up in a jacket, soaking wet. It had rained last night. 

You quickly opened the door, which caused Kyle to jump, lifting his head to blink at you. He looked exhausted. 

You didn’t question or even try to make small talk with him in the first few minutes, simply helping him inside and getting him and getting a change of clothes.

When he did change in front of you and you saw the bruises to his sides, you knew something was going on. 

“Kyle-“ you said softly, trying to stay calm for him. Afraid he’d bolt at any second. He was on edge.

“Talk to me.” You whispered, taking his hands in your own.

And so he did. He told you everything. How it had started, what she had done. Everything. It made you sick. It made you want to go to the police, but Kyle begged you not to. And after all it was his decision if he wanted to or not, so you respected him in that. 

You held him as he cried weakly, body shivering and weak. You promised at that moment to always protect him. He hadn’t cheated on you, you knew it. Kyle would never. 

He apologized profusely and each time you shushed him, holding him closer as you told him how loved he was. How special he was. And how someday he’d be able to get away from all of this. Live his life. You wanted all that for him and more.

You fed him soup and snuggled up next to him all day per his request. The more warmed up he got and happier he got, his smile came back. Your favorite smile in the world. You poked his dimples, causing him to laugh, which then in turn caused you to laugh too. This was all you wanted, and all Kyle needed. You there next to him, letting him know he was safe with you.

[abysswalkersknight]

Angsty story time just like I said! This one took a bit of time to think about because I was trying to match it with the other one and used my other fic as bit of a reference. Now if you'll excuse me I need to go write something fluffy and funny before I cry myself a river. Please enjoy.

...........................

This blessing truly was a curse.

Another wave of heaviness overwhelms Silver’s entire being, causing him to stagger against the gigantic, rusted door. Almost there, a voice whispers in his ear, almost there.

There wasn’t much time. He had been travelling on foot for a few days now, having snuck out of Night Raven after making sure that everyone was alright and resting. He had gathered all his meagre possessions from his dorm room and set fire to them, watching as the smoke and ashes rose up into the cool, starry sky, no one will miss them anyways. The only thing that was spared from the flames was the small photograph from Silver’s birthday where everyone wore pleasant happy smiles, back when everything was normal. He couldn’t bear to part with it so he carefully pocketed it in an old coat he brought from home. 

Home. What does that mean to him now? Home was wherever his father was, and now that was gone too. Lost to the sands of time and revelation. 

Almost there.

The castle was decrepit and in ruins, but there was a melancholic beauty among the briar thorns that draped over the whole crumbling structure, threading through old looming towers and snaking through rotted doors and windows. Elegant it was, for an ancient tomb made for a forgotten kingdom. 

Silver groaned as another wave of exhaustion hit him, it was getting worse, this was different from all the other spells, it was heavy and unrelenting, weighing him down like a prisoner with a ball and chain. It had started when everyone had tended to the aftermath of Malleus’s overblot, while everyone shed tears of relief and embraced each other Silver felt a sharp pang in his chest, his eyelids began to sag and his head languidly swayed. Before him was the sweet sight of his family in a tight pile sharing heartfelt whispers and cheers, suddenly he grew to be very tired. Silver was so happy for them, finally he got to see his prince and father genuinely smile once again, but this time the pang he felt before returns with another kick. Harder this time. So hard that he thought he could feel something split inside him, slowly spreading into what would later become a fragile web of cracks just waiting to shatter. By then he had left before anyone had noticed, slipping out of the room to what he believed was his final walk to the gallows.

He recalled visiting his father before he left. The poor fae was utterly exhausted and hadn’t even stirred as the moon’s light flooded the room through the crack of his door, Silver slowly crept up to the edge of his father’s bed, watching the level rise and fall of his chest as his gaze shifted to the peaceful expression on Lilia’s face, it was the most peaceful Silver’s seen him for quite some time. If Lilia were to wake up right now he might’ve startled at the close proximity his son’s face was to his, just watching intently while resting his drowsy head on top of his arms, expression blank as it had always been. How did he do it? After all the suffering he’s had to endure all these centuries, how did Lilia still find it in himself to love and care for the offspring of his enemy, the enemy who's stripped him of everything.

Silver sighed deeply, his head lolled against the cool stone of the castle, his thoughts were flailing from his grasp while his vision blurred at the edges, how much longer… how much longer. He was so tired, this was worse than the exhaustion he felt carrying the general up the forbidden mountains or the cold, cold magic that seeped into his joints. Silver clumsily waves off some birds, fluttering about in their worry when he refuses to speak to them, so tired, it didn’t matter. It was no use clinging to something worth nothing.

As he was leaving father’s room, he did not expect to hear a voice weak with sleepiness calling out to him ‘Silver?’ Lilia’s voice rang out ‘my dear, what are you doing out? You should be in bed little one’ Silver turned from his place at the door to see Lilia lifting himself upright, rubbing the tiredness from his eyes. Once again Silver was a small child, silently praying for his papa to wake up and soothe him after the throes of a dreadful nightmare, he stalls, unsure of what to do, fortunately Lilia beats him to it ‘couldn’t sleep could you? That’ll be a first, but I’m not surprised,’ he yawns widely, ‘come here little one’ he says, patting the bed. When Silver doesn’t budge he pats it more insistently ‘well, come on!’ Silver twitches hesitantly, he’d want nothing more than to run and snuggle into his father’s arms just like how he did as a child, but due to what he’s devised and done it felt rather cruel, in the end though Silver gave in. However, as father’s arms eagerly wrapped around his shoulders the drowsiness he felt in the lounge returned tenfold, making him slump further into Lilia’s chest. Unaware of what was truly happening Lilia coos, thinking that his son simply needed some company to help lull him to sleep, not that he could blame him, the past few days have been quite the eye opener for his boys, and not the pleasant kind.

‘I’m so sorry you had to endure all of that my love’ Lilia murmurs as he buries his face in silver locks ‘it must have been terrifying for you all’ he then lays back down, bringing Silver down with him ‘yes, but I’m just glad that you and Lord Malleus are safe’ he whispers back, letting Lilia press a loving kiss to his forehead ‘oh my darling, who could have ever raised such a wonderful boy? Oh yes, it was me!’ 

Normally the boy would relish in his father’s doting affections, hands combing through his hair and massaging his scalp, his warm body curled around his under the blankets, it was the perfect way to fall asleep. But all it does now is widen the gaping hole in his chest, rendering him numb to the bone. Please, why?

It should be Malleus here in father’s warm embrace, not him.

Malleus, the prince who had lost everything before he was even born, the prince who had been denied a family by those who sought power, the prince who had been denied his rightful father. I’m so sorry.

No, Silver was not jealous in the slightest, the void within him did not bay for anyone’s downfall. Only his.

Had it not been for his birth family Malleus would still have his parents, perhaps even his freedom, and Lilia would still have his beloved friends, his reasons for living. And now thanks to Silver’s selfish desires he had helped trigger Malleus’s overblot and thus this whole mess.

And it tore at Silver to know that, despite all of these transgressions, Lilia still found it in himself to love him. It was with these thoughts stewing in his head that he carefully crawled out from the blissful warmth once he was certain his father had fallen back asleep, slipping out of the dorm just as a certain prince came to check on him, only to find that the window had been left open, curtains fluttering as the moon leaked through, illuminating a room that was dreadfully cold and devoid of everything.

Silver wasn’t even meant to be here, hadn’t the great fairies blessed him with a prolonged slumber, he would merely be another fading memory of a kingdom lost to time, a distant fragment in the history textbooks if he was lucky. Which was partly why he was here now, back to the castle where Lilia had found him, and the place where Princess Malenoa was slain, if he were in the right state of mind Silver would have spent a moment savouring the desolate beauty of the whole place. But alas, it seemed that his body recognised its home of the last four hundred years, and a familiar sense of fatigue clawed at his legs. But the voice in the back of his head urged him to walk further, almost there almost there. 

After all, there was a reason why Silver was here. 

He wanted his family to be happy, and it seems to ensure that, the blood stained slate must be wiped clean. And while there was no way he could disband the senate, the least Silver could do was make sure that nothing from his forgotten home harmed anyone ever again, including himself. Everything here must remain buried, for the sake of everyone. Everything from that tragedy will die here with him, his bloodline and existence will be naught but a distant memory.   

The great fairies magic seemed to agree with him as with every ladened step he takes, the harder it was for him to move. Just a little more… 

In the background, he heard a frantic volley of chirps and squeaks. What is it this time? It takes a momentous effort to lift his hooded eyes to see a pair of dark wings flapping and tugging at his hair. Oh, it was one of Father’s familiars, the one who took charge whenever Malleus or the Zigvolts babysat him. The bat squeaked with desperation, even digging its tiny claws into his shoulder in a pitiful attempt to either wake him up or drag him away he was not sure, all he knew was that any and all entrances had been sealed to prevent anyone from breaking in, but it seemed that the wildlife were still granted entry ‘leave me’ he tells his old caretaker, his voice slurry and barely above a whisper. 

The old bat chirps back, refusing to let go as if it knew what was happening. It's possible that it does, the bat was nearly as old as Lilia, its borne witness to his family's atrocities, seen what they have done so why was it pulling at him so? It was the head of its colony, it knew as a leader that sometimes one thing must be sacrificed for the good of many others. Why didn’t it understand that this is what needs to be done? It was for the benefit of its master for goodness sake! ‘please. Leave me alone, return to Lilia’ it hurt him to insult his father like this, he could almost hear Sebek cutting into him at such blatant disrespect. I’m sorry, Father.

The bat’s urgent squealing escalates into a borderline wailing as Silver stumbles forward, crawling up the steps leading to the desecrated throne, and the empty cradle right next to it. I’m…tired. The further he climbed, the deeper he sank, down, down into the darkness, the sweet promise of rest right at his fingertips. The bat faded off into the distance, all sense of feeling in his limbs fell away, all he could see was that small cradle.

Why did I wake up?

Every resounding step echoed throughout the empty halls.

Why did you take me in?

His legs buckle underneath him, his face crashing into the harsh stone.

It hurts. I’m scared.

He was terrified, there was no stopping this, this exhaustion. Weak fingers drag his body closer.

Father, he wanted Father!

Why would he come? There was nothing here for him, he didn’t deserve father.

It was so cold, where was father? He’s warm.

In the fading light, a hand reaches out for the cradle, almost there.

Fa…ther…

Darkness swallows him whole.

[widowwaddles]

The Aftermath

Part 2 of the Yelena the Match Maker - The (Late) Valentine's Day Special

Pairing: Wanda x Reader

Warnings: insecure Wanda, a bit more angsty than I intended but a happy ending, and an even more "happy" bonus ending

W/c: ~1.5k

Taglist: @xxxtwilightaxelxxx​, @username23345, @nikkinss

A/n: it’s not the best, but it’s been sitting in my drafts for months lol

You weren’t too sure what to expect when you knocked on Wanda’s door. You already knew she was expecting you, but as you knocked on the door, you couldn’t help but get nervous. Despite having all the evidence needed to clear your name, you didn’t know how Wanda would react – if she’d even believe you. This was the most upset you’ve ever seen her, she ignored you when she left the community center and didn’t even wait for you in the parking lot so you could drive to her house together.

What really set shivers down your spine was the text you received from Natasha, telling you to fix this issue with Wanda before she takes matters into her own hands. Natasha was very protective over Wanda, as she stood by her side through the highs and lows of her relationship with Vision. You tried to explain that her sister was the mastermind before this, but she just left you on read. Not the best sign, especially if it is any reflection of what’s to come for your conversation with Wanda.

She opens the door, not even bothering to look as she turns back inside. She walks back towards her couch, crossing her arms and giving you an expectant look when you enter the room. You sat on the couch, looking up at Wanda as you waited for her next move. You couldn’t help but feel like a child about to be scolded at this moment. It would be a funny memory to bring up in the future IF you can save your relationship. You silently curse Yelena as Wanda sits on the completely opposite side of the couch.

“Wanda, I-”

“Before you start, I just wanted to say something to you” she interrupts, causing you to look at her in surprise. “It’s something I’ve been thinking about since we decided to give this a chance, and everything that happened today kinda put it all in perspective” The moment those words left her mouth, your heart started to ache. This was not the direction you were hoping this conversation would go. You start to protest, but she silences you with one firm look.

“I don’t want you to interrupt me. I don’t think I will be able to get it all out if you do. Please” she finishes off her plea with a cracked voice. You give her a look, silently promising to keep your word.

“From the moment we met, I knew you were special. I had no idea that it would be anything beyond a friendship, and I definitely did not believe that it would progress as fast as it did. Honestly, I’ve never been happier and I’m so thankful to you because I never thought I’d get to experience it again” Her eyes start to water, as she smiles. “I don’t have much experience when it comes to relationships or friends. Vision was my first for everything after I moved here, and he was supposed to be my last…until he wasn’t. I know what happens when things move too fast and you lose parts of who you are because you’re so desperate to keep it from falling apart. And I’m so scared of that happening to us, and having to lose you because of it” She shifts her focus to her hands as more tears start to fall from her eyes. You move towards her, grabbing her hands before she can start picking (a habit you’ve discovered in the months you’ve been dating).

“After the divorce, I thought I was done with relationships altogether. I believed I was too broken to ever have that chance again. Until you came along. I’ve never had this, something that feels so balanced and healthy. Everything is so new to me, these feelings are so new to me. I just want to let it consume me; to just keep you close and never let go. But that wouldn’t be fair to you” Wanda pulls away. “I don’t want to force you into something you’re not ready for. I know that we decided to take things slow so It wasn’t fair of me to get so upset about someone buying you flowers. You should be allowed to keep your options open, especially with all of the baggage I have. It’s probably better that you figure it out now, rather than later” Wanda ends, giving you a strained smile.

“Am I allowed to speak now?” you ask.

“Yes”

“I understand what you have said, about not wanting things to move too fast and it ultimately leading to the downfall of our relationship. I have the same fears too, but I would NEVER treat you the way Vision did. I don’t see you as broken. I see you as a strong, loving woman and mother. Someone who’s continued to push forward despite everything life has thrown her way. Someone that I find myself falling for (and over) ever since we met. Yeah, it may be too soon for me to be saying these things but it’s hard not to when you’ve met someone this perfect. I can’t even explain how deep my feelings go, but I just want you to know that you aren’t alone in this. And you will never be again if you’ll allow me to stay by your side. I don’t want to ‘keep my options open’ when I have the best thing in front of me. You are all I want, I promise you. Despite everything that’s happened in the past, and we have no idea where things will go in the future, as long as you’re the only constant in my life I don’t care what happens” You move closer to Wanda, bringing your hand up to wipe her tears.

“I know you’ve been told so many empty promises, but I want to prove it to you” She brings her hand up to cover yours. She nods her head, tears filling her eyes again but this time was different. They were tears of relief and security.

“And the first step to our future, is this” Using your other hand, you pull out the receipts from your pocket. It wasn’t as smooth as you thought it would be, but you held it out for Wanda to take. You watch as she reads the papers and the moment it all clicks in her head. Wanda crumples the papers and throws her body into your arms.

“I’m going to kill her” her voice muffled by your body.

“You and me both” wrapping your arms around her and holding her tightly against you. Honestly, you weren’t that upset with Yelena anymore in that moment, you were just happy you got to hold Wanda again. The crisis was averted and you just wanted to revel in the moment. Tomorrow you could think of revenge.

*** Bonus "Alternative" Ending (18+, suggestive content below)

It took a lot of groveling.

“Wanda, I’ve already shown you the receipt, why are you still angry with me?” you whine.

Wanda glances between you and the receipt on her table, a frown settled on her face.

And I mean a lot of groveling.

“You’re the best thing to ever happen to me Wanda, I would never want to jeopardize that.” You say wrapping your arms around Wanda tightly, pulling her into you as you fall back onto her couch. Wanda stays still, relishing in the warmth of your body for a moment before pulling away. You think she’s going to stand up and leave, a pout instantly making its way onto your lips, but to your surprise - she straddles your lap.

“I trust you and I believe you about Yelena being behind this” she leans down, close to your ear before continuing. “I just don’t like the idea of anyone buying you flowers” Pulling away to look you in the eyes, you see hers have darkened. Leaning forward you try to kiss her but she backs up. Her hand pushes on your chest until you're lying flat against the cushions again.

“I think you need to be reminded who you belong to” Grabbing your hand she pins them above your head. She grabs your neck, tilting it to the side before pressing a kiss against your pulse point.

“And no touching until I’m done,” she says, before diving into your neck and marking her territory. You couldn’t help but think that this is what Yelena meant when she said Wanda was going to destroy you. Wanda doesn’t give your mind much time to think about anything else as she draws moans from your throat, only motivating her to go harder.

After practically completely covering your neck, Wanda pulls away with a satisfied look.

“You know that I’m yours, right?” She grabs your hands leading them to her hips. She smiles at how responsive you are, your hands slightly lowering and gripping her tight, as you nod your head eagerly. She leans down again, this time hovering over your lips.

“Then prove it to me”

And so you did until any remaining doubts plaguing Wanda’s mind faded along with her consciousness as she lay against your chest that night. You kiss her head, as you think of how your next conversation with Yelena will go. Even though you ended up enjoying the outcome, if it wasn’t for the receipts, you don’t even think you’d still be in a relationship. Deciding this is something you’d have to deal with tomorrow, you pull Wanda into you

[sunoorintarou]

Catharsis: State of Affairs (dark red)

Phos!Reader x (Platonic?) Megumi Fushiguro

Warnings: soooo angsty, so much regret, questioning, self hatred, self loathing, self blaming, Megumi being mean to reader, Megumi being emotionally constipated, mentions of Megumi's struggles caused by Toji leaving, just pretty sad over all

Notes: Alexa, play Dark Red by Steve Lacy

Megumi felt guilty. Guilty, beyond all understanding. This was his fault, after all. This all began and ended with him.

He could only describe you as the softest part of his heart. The weakest. The most humane part of him he rejected so deeply.

You were weak. From the time he had met you, that was one thing that hadn't changed to him. You were so... human. It was almost sickening.

He remembered when Gojo had paired you up together for your first mission. How your hands trembled, the sword in your hands weighing you down as you nervously looked around.

He remeber how easily you got hurt, skin cracking simply from the cursed energy released by the curse. The lines forming like the roots of all concern, the weak roots of an unstable tree being tossed around by the wind.

Yet he also remeber how fearlessly you had tried to fight off the curse when he had been momentarily injured. Form so small against the large curse, but tenacious in the worst way. Body shaking as you rocked back and forth with your sword, the weight so much you had no choice but to hurl the sword at the curse.

You knew you would lose, yet you were still prepared to sacrifice yourself for Megumi, as if your life held no importance. He hated that about you.

The aftermath of that incident was something that Megumi remembered to this day. The guilt eating away at him.

He had snapped at you, belittling your efforts, calling you weak, saying you should forget about being a sorceror. Calling you a liability on the battlefield, claiming you were simply not cut out for this world.

Gosh, he was such an idiot. He had meant to berate you for your reckless actions and tell you to take more caution and not be so ready to give your life away. Especially not for him. He didn't deserve that.

He wondered if he had planted that seed of doubt in your head. At the time, his anger had blindsided him. But he had never really thought you'd take it to heart. You had simply laughed off his comment, eyes glazing ever so slightly, vowing to prove him wrong, after all.

Yet, as he watched you train, regularly asking him for sparring matches to show off your progress, he couldn't help but wonder if he had caused this development. If he had been the catalyst to your downfall. The butterfly who flapped his wings, resulting in the typhoon.

Every action made him feel worse. It seemed as if he could never do right by you.

Even when he tried to help you train, when he stayed up late at night waiting for you to return after you'd snuck out, when he'd leave snacks on your desk because he knew you hadn't been eating much. How he worried himself sick whenever you got injured, how he visited you every single day you were unconscious whenever you injured yourself. He would never admit he had been the one to put the flowers at your bedside because they were nothing compared to the flowers you had grown in his heart.

Megumi wanted to protect you as much as he did Itadori, Kugisaki, Gojo, even Tsumiki. He had seen the signs even before everyone else.

He had been the first one to ask if you'd been sleeping well, noticing the discoloration under your eyes. Sneakily taking food you liked off his plate and putting it on yours whenever you'd eat out, noticing the plushness of your cheeks reducing.

He'd been lying if he had said he'd been trying his best. Not knowing any better was no excuse. No matter how many times he tried to convince himself, it was. He could have learned for you. He could have tried harder for you.

You deserved better than him. That was what he firmly believed.

Despite how hostile he had been, you had accepted him and his flaws wholeheartedly. You were the one who matched his pace behind the rest of the group as you walked. You were the one who refused to let him eat his meals alone, always finding him and joining him. You were the one who would sit with him in silence, simply keeping him company. You were the one who was always silent, listening to everything he said. Taking notes of his likes and dislikes, doing your best to understand him in a way no one had.

You were so much to him, yet he could never do anything for you.

It was still fresh in his mind. The day you left. The day he should have said something, anything, but had failed to.

It was late in the night when he saw you, sky pitch black, stars twinkling brightly. You were walking through the hallways in casual clothes, your jujutsu uniform jacket folded in your arms. He was confused, pausing in the hallway as you walked toward him. He was wearing his uniform jacket, but casual pants.

"Ah, Megumi." You smiled, a genuine smile. One so bright Megumi thought he was dreaming.

"Y/n?" His eyes fluttered down to the clothes in your arms, quirking a brow at you.

"Let's go for a walk, Megumi, like we used to." You had laughed, referring to how you'd follow him around the school, harping him with questions when you'd first arrived. Although it had been a few months, it felt as if it had been years.

So many seasons had passed.

Megumi had begun to wonder if he had started losing you in the winter or the spring.

His eyes stayed glued to your form as he watched you walk. Your form was stronger, so much more confident. Head high, strong shoulders that seemed to hold the weight of unspoken words.

You looked unreal, that night in particular more than anything, and for some reason, a sense of dread filled Megumi.

You had led him to the roof, staring silently at the stars as you leaned against the railing. And he stayed silent with you. The silence was never lonely when you were around.

"You know, Megumi, you're like cinnabar." You said suddenly.

Megumi frowned.

"Cinnabar is poisonous." He looked at you with narrow eyes. He wasn't sure if you were being serious or simply teasing.

"But it's beautiful." You said. Not an ounce of hesitation in your voice, eyes still trained on the sky.

Megumi's cheeks turned pink.

"It only has a hardness of 2.5. Yet it's strong enough to keep itself safe. It's so gentle, so beautiful that even though it hurts you at first, you see beyond that. It's so bright. You can't help but look up to it. Even though it's usually alone, it still shines. I think it shines more when it's surrounded by other gems, though."

Megumi stayed silent.

You smiled. You weren't speaking about Cinnabar anymore.

"Let's swap jackets." You said suddenly, turning to face him.

"Why?" He asked, eyes widening.

Your jacket was the exact same as his. You had had it designed like that when you had first arrived. Megumi was strong and composed. You looked up to him, wanting to be him because he was everything you weren't. This had caused you to ask Gojo to get you the same jacket as his.

Since then, you had been wearing it loyally, only difference being that you tucked it into your skirt. Itadori, Kugisaki, and Gojo had never let him live it down.

"To remind me of you, like a keep sake. It's the same jacket, Megumi, I even ordered mine oversized so it would match perfectly. So, please?"

Megumi frowned. He didn't like the way you spoke about this. A keepsake? You saw him every day. That made no sense. You had always been oddly sentimental however. No matter how odd your requests, Megumi could never say no to you.

So he wordlessly unzipped his jacket, taking it off and holding it out to you. Your face lit up so pretty, teal eyes so bright as your smile finally reached your eyes after so many months.

You took the jacket, placing yours in his hands. You didn't hesitate to put it on, buttoning it up with a smile. You did a twirl, looking at Megumi.

"How do I look?" You asked playfully.

"Same as always." He deadpanned, yet the pinkness on the tips of his ears said otherwise.

"You know, Megumi. Your name, it means blessing. You live up to that name. You're one of the best things that ever happened to me. Don't forget that your existence is a blessing, nothing less." You sighed, an almost sad smile on your face.

How could his name ever truly mean blessing when all he brought was misfortune to those around him?

The words died on Megumi's tongue.

"Why do you keep talking like you're gonna die or something?" Megumi's brows furrowed, face scrunching up in annoyance.

"In the future, I will. But, you don't know what could happen. Jujutsu Sorcerors have it tough. I could even die tomorrow-"

"Shut up."

Your eyes widened, lips trembling ever so slightly. There was silence for a few seconds as you suddenly turned away. You then sat down, knees bent against your chest, back against the railing.

"Stay here with me, just for tonight?"

Megumi wanted to protest. Claim it was unsafe or unsanitary. Tell you the floor was too cold. That you'd get sick. Something. Anything. Yet the words died on his tongue the moment he noticed the tears in your eyes.

He sat next to you, and before he knew it, you were crying, fingers laced with his as you leaned your head against his shoulder.

"If- if there's ever a time, when I'm not here anymore, please, you have to, please- please, forget me Megumi. Don't hesitate. Live on, as if I never existed. Promise me this, and only this." Your voice was cracking, words muffled against his shirt, tears soaking his skin.

"I-"

"Promise me, Megumi. Please. Even if I'm not here in the morning."

Megumi's stomach dropped. Just what were you going through? What was causing this? He knew the only way to comfort you was to agree. Even if his heart ripped in his chest and his words caught in his throat like thick tar.

Megumi always messed up around you. This was the least he could do.

"I promise."

That was the biggest lie Megumi had ever told.

You looked like a dream in the moonlight. Your eyes holding the galaxy as you looked at him in a way that tugged every string attached to his heart.

Megumi hated when you cried. You were still pretty, eyes crystalline and lips so pouty. You were just so much prettier when you smiled.

He let you cry in his arms until you fell asleep, hearing you mutter a goodnight followed by a thank you so filled with sorrow, a part of Megumi knew he wouldn't be seeing you for a long time.

He didn't know how or why, but he was sure of it. So he held you tightly, hoping and praying he was just overthinking this. Praying you'd still be curled in his arms in the morning.

Why would you leave? Where would you go? Was it because of him? And if it wasn't, was he not reason enough for you to stay?

Megumi's eyes glazed over.

Was everyone just meant to leave him?

This felt like a final goodbye. The ending scene of drama that had played on too long.

In this moment of weakness, when he knew you were asleep, Megumi whispered everything he had ever wanted into your hair. The apologies, the truths in all the lies, the praises, his true feelings. He spoke it all to the moon and the stars.

He could never let you go.

And when Megumi woke up in the morning, sun shining like a bad conscience against his empty arms. Megumi gritted his teeth, staring at the ground in front of him.

Like the moon that shone at night and disappeared in the day, you were gone. So silently, Megumi almost wondered if he had imagined you.

Yet the sorrow in his chest, so thick he felt like he could barely breathe, told Megumi you had been there.

Worst of all, he knew you were gone.

Something in Megumi died that day that never came back to life.

So he found himself locked up in his room while the others had rushed out to find you, realising you were gone. He didn't have the strength to search for you.

Megumi had met you where the spirit met the flesh and bone, yet in neither could he find an answer.

So instead, he prayed to a God he wasn't sure existed that in another life, you'd meet again. This time in a story that wasn't meant to end so bitterly.

[https-furina]

4. “it was just a nightmare, it’s okay.” with heizou

i love this prompt

✎ crime scene aftermath.

ft. heizou x gn!reader

prompt: “it was just a nightmare, it’s okay.”

w.c. 707 words

content: fluff, established relationship, reader & heizou work together, mentions of murder - i'm a little gory on details sorry my loves the criminologist in me popped out, i guess it counts as work related ptsd - this ended up so much more angsty than i wanted it to i'm sorry pt 100!!

notes: you are hurting me with this one aly oh no (and i’m taking it personal bc my oc is in fact his colleague and she is me so pls hELP ME) - think of this as a brief look into what i can conjure up for my future murder mystery teehee

there is a solace in being colleagues with your lover. there is routine in leaving the your shared house together in the morning, taking the many steps to the police station with your hands knotted together. there is pride in the way your partner hooks his arm around your waist, giving you a prompt kiss on the lips in front of your colleagues - they're getting tired of him pulling this, everyone knows you are together. heizou just likes to remind them.

the two of you are mildly inseparable; more like heizou always seems to 'coincidentally' find you, even when you're doing a case alone. you know damn well he's looking for you under the guise that his "intuition told him a case was brewing here." you would never complain out loud however when the pair of you work as the best detective duo in inazuma. there isn't a case you haven't cracked using your wit and heizou's intuition, even going so far as peeling open files for cold cases long unsolved. at first your supervisor scoffed as you perused the little to no evidence acquired by the police station's early days but after a week or so with neither heizou nor yourself attending your jobs at the police station, the two of you appear with a verdict that leaves him bewildered.

as with many jobs, there is a downfall - negatives that lurk in the dark behind the pride you radiate upon solving a case. there's the alarm when a civilian rushes to the police station, claiming all sorts of things about a murder. you remember sharing a look with your boyfriend's verdant eyes and then that day fuzzes over. the crime scene reeks, it's metallic and yet there is a stronger, more putrid smell of rotting flesh - one similar to that of putrescine - that nauseates you. for a few moments, you debate whether you should flee and surrender the case to someone else.

then your eyes fall ever so slowly onto her - the unfortunate victim. you take in her injuries, the state of her being left for presumably days. you shoot up, panting as a cold sweat runs down your body, making you unbearably wet. the room is dark, a crack of moonlight filtering through a crack in the linen curtains. your throat is dry and yet you swallow anyway, hoping it'd wash away the suffocating lump in your throat as you keep gasping for breath.

"love?" he's barely awake, voice deep as he awakes from what must have been a peaceful slumber for him. guilt washes over you that you managed to wake up your boyfriend over something so trivial. you stay sat up, slumped a little as a stinging sensation pricks at your eyes, "hey - what's wrong? speak to me, dear."

heizou pulls himself up slowly, a hand smoothing over the curve of your back comfortingly as you choke out a sob and heizou is quick to pull you into his chest. you can still smell it - no, her. it's heavy, hanging over you no matter how much you bury your face into heizou's skin in a futile attempt to escape. your boyfriend clucks his tongue, arms wrapped around you as you shake with every cry.

"it was just a nightmare, it's okay," he soothes, his chest vibrating against your body with every word, "deep breaths, in and out."

heizou can hear you barely babbling words in-between sobs, your body heaving as you struggle to get air into your lungs. his fingers trace shapes on your back, he even traces keywords to his ongoing cases. this is the sixth nightmare you've had regarding that woman's case - which happened months ago. heizou's brows knit together as he leaves a kiss on your damp hair.

there is a toll to being so devoted in supressing the evil of this world and it is the images, the smells, the sounds that never leave your psyche. they taunt you, swallowing your sanity in a thick fog. he clears that fog, he knows he does when you fall still in his arms, breathing shallow on his skin as you ease back into sleep. morning will come and neither of you will utter a word about what happened in the night.

© https-heizou 2023.

[lumosatnight]

Lani's Birthday Oneshots: 2023 Edition!

So, today is my birthday (SCREAMING!), and as a continuation of last year's tradition, I present a ONESHOT REC LIST to celebrate 🥳! Here are 15 oneshots, all under 10k words, one for each day in June leading up to my birthday. Lots of genres, lots of tropes, ordered by ship (kinda).

🌼 - fluff | 💔 - angst | 🔥 - smut | 👀 - mind the tags

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1. Potter's Got a Tiny Dick (that I can't stop thinking about swallowing whole) by @vukovich [Draco/Harry, E, 4.1k] 🔥🤣 This is crack. Hilarious and filthy crack with bff Ginny, nasty car sex, and unhinged Draco wanting "Just a little nom of a cock."

2. Boy Wonder by @maesterchill [Draco/Harry/Ron, E, 6.1k] 🔥🎹 Established in love Rarry with Draco returned from abroad! Wonderful Ron characterization, witty snappy dialogue, and dacryphilia!!!

3. A Saving People Problem by @the-francakes [Draco/James, E, 5.9k] 🔥🏍️ Draco living at Grimmauld place, and James can't keep his eyes off of him. Oh heck yeah! Surprisingly sweet for such a hot cross-gen pairing. Also poor Harry lol.

4. Gray Eyes (Tell No Lies) by @danpuff-ao3 [Sirius/Draco, E, 3.7k] 🔥🍏 Draco with a lingerie kink! Sirius with a one-way magic mirror! So hot, so delectable. Throw in a praise kink too, and I'm drooling.

5. A Sight to Behold by @lumoslyra [Sirius/Luna, T, 2.5k] 🌼🥐 Luna and Sirius dancing around each other. Hermione watching it all and Harry is just confused. Super cute and sweet.

6. in rivulets, in waves by @dulosis [Bellatrix/Luna, M, 2.0k] 💔👀 Dark and deceptive. I couldn't put this fic down. What happens if Bellatrix survives the war? What if Luna takes her in?

7. Catch Me As I Fall by @this-world-of-beautiful-monsters [Bellatrix/Lily, T, 5.8k] 🌼💔 This fic is a wonderful AU of Lily befriending Bellatrix at Hogwarts. How she slowly changes, how she still is roped into the war. Just spectacular!

8. (give me) the first taste by @iamsiriuslyriddikulus [Narcissa/Lily, M, 4.4k] 💔🌿 Narcissa and Lily as hot moms smoking weed!!! Yes!! This Muggle AU is so well thought-out. The characters are so memorable. (Also I'm a sucker for flangst).

9. Love in a Hopeless Place by @dragonsandotters-dh [Remus/Narcissa, T, 4.6k] 💔🐺 So much hurt but also so much comfort. Draco gets bitten by Greyback. A heart-wrenching and hopeful look into the aftermath.

10. Male Bonding by musigneus [Remus/Severus, E, 9.8k] 🔥👀 This is angsty fuck-or-die to the max. Trapped in a cellar before the full moon. But it's SO GOOD and a somewhat hopeful ending.

11. Open a Vault For Me by Sevanna_OHera [Charity/Severus, M, 3.4k] 💔🧪 I found this pairing recently, and the angst level is off the charts. So much hope and longing in this fic and also a canon-compliant ending.

12. Table for One by @littlesixxwrites [Dean/Blaise, T, 3.2k] 🌼🎄 I LOVE THIS SHIP. Bean is the cutest. This fic has instantly smitten Blaise and equally enamored Dean. Lovely fluffy fic that made me squeal with happiness.

13. Maybe This Time (alternatively: once more, with feeling!) by @wanderingdonut [Regulus, G, 4.6k] 🤣👻 THIS FIC!! I died laughing from this fic, then I came back to life cackling and died all over again. Ghost Regulus is perfect. Snarky and entitled and wallowing in death lol.

14. toxicology by @batmansymbol [Hermione, G, 2.9k] 💔💌 A fascinating dive into the possible implication of Harry being a horcrux for so many years. I love how we view everything through Hermione's unreliable narration.

15. just a few sweaters by Prettything_uglylie [Molly, G, 2.4k] 🌼🧶 This story is a cup of hot cocoa in front of the fire. Warm and sweet and content. I adore it with my whole heart.

BONUS FIC (>10k): Tiny Dancer by @rainchance [Neville/Pansy, M, 12.4k] 🌼🩰 A super sweet Panville fic with ballet dancer Pansy and film student Neville. Wonderful background characters and mutual pining.

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Want more fics to read?

Try my rec tag: #lumosinthelibrary

Bday Oneshots 2022, 22 Fic Recs 2022, WLW Library