breadedloafs

[breadedloafs]

what a bittersweet ending to one of my fav fanfics😢 i’m so glad i got to see the story evolve and the whole ass journey of this awesome writing🫶 i’ll miss this amazing price🫡

Peppermint Tea 38 - Epilogue

This one is short and sweet. Just a little snippet of what their lives look like. It's purely self-indulgent, but i hope you guys enjoy! This is the last of Peppermint Tea! ❤️

Peppermint Tea Masterlist-> HERE

Joy couldn't contain her excitement. She would be a whole TEN YEARS OLD today, and her Papa was finally on his way back, and with Presents! Just for her! He even promised she wouldn't have to share with her older sister OR her older brother! She was practically vibrating with uncontrollable glee and grinned widely at her Father and Momma when she heard the dark-haired man huff at her. 

“If I didn't know any better, I'd say you prefer Papa over either of us, snowflake,” you tease, and Joyeuse stuck her tongue out at her momma, golden eyes narrowed in a parody of her father's signature look. 

“Nooo. I love you all equally,” she insists but it just makes her parents snicker even more. 

“Mhmm. Sure, and Papa doesn't give the best gifts either, huh?” You press, and Joyeuse frowns, a thoughtful look on her pink-cheeked face. 

“Well,” she draws out and kicks the ground, “Papa does have the best presents.” 

“I knew it. See, darling. She does love us as much as Shanks,” Mihawk joins in, and is rewarded by his daughter huffing and crossing her arms, lips pursed in a pout that looks too much like the redheads. 

“You're supposed to be nice to me today, Father. It's my birthday.” 

A dusty laugh interrupts the picking, and the three of you turn to see Tomura leaning in the doorway, a disapproving look on his face. 

“That's exactly right. Are they giving you a hard time, sweetheart?” 

Joyeuse squeals and launches herself at her uncle. He had promised to be here for her birthday, and she'd been skeptical at first. Her uncle was always so busy now that he had such an important job in the Navy, so a lot of the time he had to cancel their plans. She was happy that today wasn't one of those times. 

“Yes! They've been picking on me all day, uncle! Maybe you should arrest them,” she says and grins so that her parents know that she is joking. Joyeuse would never want her uncle to have to take her parents to the scary prison that he'd told her about before. She'd fight him herself if he ever tried! 

Tomura laughs, green eyes crinkling in glee as he swings his niece up and she wraps her gangly arms around his neck, clinging to his back like a spider monkey, “Well, if the birthday girl wishes.” 

“Oh, nooo. Whatever shall we do against a fearsome Navy Admiral?” You tease and make a swooning motion, “Only someone super strong could take him on.” 

“Someone like me?” 

Joyeuse whips around at the voice, golden eyes going wide when she finds Papa standing behind her, a small crate tucked under his arm as he grins at her. She drops from her uncle and runs for the redhead who sets the crate down just in time to open his arm and scoop his daughter up, swinging her around with a laugh. 

“You're here!” She squeals and clutches her Papa in a hug with all her might. She eyes the crate at his feet, eyes wide and curious, “Is that mine?” 

Shanks nods and walks further into the living room, joining you on the sofa and adjusting his daughter so that she sits on his lap, “Yup. It's a special gift. So I figured you'd want to open it last.” 

Joyeuse pouts a bit, but knows that begging wouldn't get her anywhere, even on her special day, “Okayyyyy.” 

She grins when the adults around her laugh, but then she remembers that her party is supposed to start when Papa gets home, so she rounds on him, golden eyes shining with anticipation, “Can we have cake now?” 

You stand and ruffle your daughter's shaggy red hair, smiling at the way she pouts at you and swats away your hand, “Yup. Let me go get it and I'll be you guys outside, how about that?” 

Mihawk stands, stopping long enough to kiss his husband on the brow and poke Joyeuse in the forehead gently, a small smirk on his lips, “I'll go help her.” 

Joyeuse slides from her Papa's last and grabs his hand, leading him to the door of their home. They lived on a big island on the outskirts of Buggy Town, so they had a big front yard that all of her family had put in effort to decorate. There were streamers and balloons galore, and even a big banner that had Happy Birthday Joyeuse written in big bubble letters. 

Outside, she finds that there has been a table set up to the side, overflowing with gifts. Her other uncles, Buggy, Crocodile, Katakuri are mingling with her older brother and his crew. 

Shanks watches his daughter run forward and greet everyone, laughing loudly when Luffy grabs her and tosses her high in the air, catching her ease and setting her back on the ground. He can't help but laugh when Buggy snatches her up next, already shouting at the snickering young man about being more careful! 

The clown had gotten his ass chewed by Mihawk and his wife both after making Joy cry when she was a toddler, thinking that she would find his dismembered head funny at the tender age of three. Now he was almost just as overbearingly protective of the little girl as her fathers. His son's crew laughs along with their captain, and Shanks couldn't be happier with how everything had turned out today. 

Joyeuse is passed along her guests, and you come out just in time to see Crocodile giving your daughter an early birthday present. Your eyes go soft when she hugs the absolutely massive, stuffed bananagator to her chest, a grin so wide that it could make the sun look dim. 

“Joyeuse, cake?” you call to her, and the little girl zooms to your side, holding out the stuffed animal and chattering your ear off about how cool and dangerous it looks. You smile indulgently and then gesture to the cake you hold. It towers high with bright pink icing and chocolate sponge hidden underneath, “Tell Uncle Katakuri thank you. He's the one who gave me the recipe for the cake.” 

Joyeuse nods diligently and marches over to the man who sits to the side, towering over everyone there. She beams at her uncle, “Thank you, Katakuri. Your cakes are the best every year!” 

He laughs, his smile wide under his scarf, and reaches down to pat the top of her head, smirking when Joy latches into his hand and he lifts her into the air, “Anytime Tiny. I hope you've had a good day so far.” 

“The best! I was worried that Papa wouldn't make it in time, but he came home with a special gift! I'm not supposed to open it until after everything else!” 

You cock a brow at Shanks. You'd heard him inside and had been curious, but hadn't wanted to ruin any kind of surprise he might have in store for their daughter, “You spoil her.” 

“As she should be,” Mihawk voices from behind you, and slides close, kissing the back of your head, his hands full of a large tub of ice cream. 

“What he said,” Shanks says with a snicker and you roll your eyes at the men who you call husband. You follow after Mihawk and set the cake on the table, calling your daughter over so that she can sit at the head and everyone can sing happy birthday. 

After cake and ice cream, presents come next. Joyeuse is excited and grateful for every one of them, beaming at each person under the brim of the replica straw hat that Luffy had dropped on her red hair before she'd begun to open her presents. Joyeuse rounds on her Papa once the last present was placed away, “Now, Papa?” 

Shanks laughs and nods, stepping forward and placing the crate in front of her. He looks at her, his tone dropping into something serious. 

“This is a very special gift, Joyeuse, and I want you to think long and hard about if it's something that you want, okay?” 

Joyeuse schools her expression, and you can't help but grin at how much she looks like Mihawk when she does, “Okay, Papa.” 

Shanks looks at her for another second before he nods and reaches out to unlatch the crate, and you peek over your daughter's shoulder, curious about what is inside. 

Carefully, Joy plucks what can only be a devil fruit out of the crate. It is dark purple in color with an intricate swirling pattern, and she turns it this way and that with a look of awe. She looks at Papa, lip tucked between her lips in thought before she asks, “Which one is it?”

Shanks gives her a small smile, “It's called the Inku Inku fruit. It allows you to create, manipulate, and even turn into Ink. I know it's not the most flashy fruit out there, but it can be useful.” 

Mihawk kneels at his daughter, taking in her expression and smiling gently at her, “You don't have to make the decision now, sweet girl. Take your time to make your choice.” 

Joyeuse nods, a smile spreading across her face as she tucks the fruit back into the crate. She was terribly excited, and the urge to chomp into the fruit was almost overwhelming, but she pushed it away, “I'll be smart, Father. I promise.” 

Mihawk pats her head and then stands beside his wife and husband. He is content that his daughter is happy, and that he is surrounded by the ones that he loves. He'd never thought that this was how his life would turn out after drifting to an unknown island near the calm belt, but the swordsman didn't regret a thing.

@writingmysanity @djbumblebee @goth-mami-writer @myradiaz @fluffybunnyu @bookandstar @foggyturtleknightangel @browneyedhufflepuff @anastasiyax @jaguarthecat @atricksterwithwings @black-swan-blog27 @breadedloafs @enpvrirnce @gottalovethefandom @mfreedomstuff @caniseethefourthsword @olenoname @glitterystarfishfestival

[breadedloafs]

oh wow🤭 happy new year smiley! it’s not midnight yet where i am but i hope you have a wonderful new year celebration or whatever you do! also amazing writing, i just love poly fanfics i’m an absolute sucker (i have a running joke w my fbi agent/spirits in my room(/j) whenever there’s two(or more😏) love interests, any and all conflicts can be easily solved with poly)

Give Me Your TMI~ Chapter 8

₊˚⊹ᰔ Pairing; Yang Jeongin x Fem!reader, Stray kids x Fem!reader

₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ Summary; In a world where Humans and Hybrids should be living as equals, Hybrids are still viewed as being closer to their animalistic side than their humanistic. Deep in the woods lives a band of misfit hybrids who reject these societal views and keep to themselves, choosing to live away from humans. What happens when the youngest of this rogue group meets a lost Human girl, befriending her after an incident where he must rely on her for help?

₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ Warnings; hybrid!au, female!reader, angst, mild violence, mentions of sexual harassment/assault and discrimination, she/her pronouns used for reader, this is very loosely based off the overall themes/tones of the manga and anime fruits basket~

₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ special chapter warnings; talks of cult-like behavior (nothing too in depth), graphic depictions of violence, multiple character deaths, mild references/implication of ptsd, smut, threesome, mxmxf, fingering, oral sex (m and f receiving), knotting, cum-sharing, mild dirty talk?? I think that’s everything- VIOLENCE WILL BE MARKED WITH BEFORE AND AFTER SO THOSE WHO WOULD LIKE TO SKIP IT MAY DO SO but it is major plot points so I tried to dial it back as much as possible and not be super descriptive- proceed with caution if easily triggered

The world outside was cold, blanketed in a thick white sheet of snow that never seemed to end even weeks after the first snow fall.

With the weather persisting the way it was, fresh snow falling just as the previous was showing signs of melting even slightly, Chan had made the decision to cut back on patrols. You weren’t sure if it was fully because of the snow or if the protection they realized they had having a human here had caused the wolf hybrid to feel a bit more at ease causing him to change from daily patrols to now only weekly.

It had been nice, regardless of the reason behind it, to have the canines at the cabin more often. You slowly began to wear the beagle hybrid down as you found Seungmin warming up to you more and more each day, even seeking out your company on his own some afternoons when you would be in his and Jisung’s shared room reading to the chipmunk from the book you had gifted him.

Today was one of those days, sitting curled up with Seungmin on one side and Jisung on the other as you helped the later sound out words while teaching him to read simple sentences from the book.

You felt a sudden tugging feeling in your chest causing you to look up at the doorway and see Jeongin leaning against the wooden frame, a soft smile on his face and his ears twitching lightly atop his head. A matching smile found your lips and you giggled at him, shaking your head. “What?” The fox shrugged, slowly entering the room and coming to sit at the edge of the bed. “Dunno, just thinking about how you told me once you wanted to be a teacher…you would have been a really good one, I think.” At the youngest’s words Jisung gasped, sitting up a bit straighter as he looked at you with his soft brown eyes so wide they looked comically. “You were a teacher before? That’s so cool! No wonder you are so smart.” Your smile saddened as you shook your head, hand coming up to brush some of his hair away from his face and give a few soft scratches behind his tiny ears. “No, I wasn’t…just wanted to be one. I kind of helped my mama teach my younger siblings sometimes but it wasn’t more than a dream, really…I was made for other things in life, not meant to work or have a job.”

Your words made the hybrids around you frown, Seungmin being the one to speak up after a while. “You…talk about yourself like a hybrid would. Like you’re not human- why?”

You paused for a moment, looking between their faces hesitantly before sighing softly. “I was raised that way, I guess…taught that women and men were very different and that it is a woman’s duty to provide for their husbands in a more…traditional way.” They all looked at you expectantly, their eyes urging you to continue and you shook your head with a little laugh. “Why the sudden curiosity with how I was raised?” You questioned, tilting your head at them slightly. “It’s not sudden, we’ve just been holding back cause you didn’t seem to wanna talk about it before…and because we didn’t know you as well then.” Jisung said softly, curling into your side as his sweet syrupy scent washed over you. Jeongin fought the growl in the back of his throat as the older hybrid clung to you, the fact that you were his mate being the only thing to calm him as he watched the chipmunk heavily scent you so openly in front of him even though he knew Jisung meant nothing by it and was only wanting to comfort you.

With another sigh, you nodded and decided to indulge them a bit. “I grew up in a very strict environment. Little boys are raised to be strong and to provide for their families while little girls are raised to be good wives. Women are seen more as property than people, I guess the way hybrids are…” The room was silent as the three hybrids watched you tell your tale of where you came from, but with your newfound hearing abilities you could hear how their heartbeats’ quickened at your words. “I was taught to cook, clean, raise children, and obey….first to obey my father and by extension my mother, and then to obey my husband for when the time would come. I was the oldest of twelve so-“ Jeongin cut you off then, a loud gasp coming from his lips. “Twelve?! There were twelve of you?” You laughed a bit at his reaction, nodding your head. “Yes. Eight sisters and three brothers. Again, I was the oldest so that would make nine girls total…my father wasn’t too pleased that they had so many girls so they kept trying until mama had the triplets.”

Seungmin shifted in his seat beside you, his arms coming to wrap around your waist almost protectively as his chin came to rest on your shoulder. This was the kind of affection he only gave you when in the confines of his and Jisung’s room. “Would you have had that many babies with your husband?” You frowned at the mention of Jason, but nodded slowly. “I suppose I would have, yeah. If that is what my husband asked of me, I would have had to obey him. I wouldn’t have really had a choice…” Jeongin frowned, he could feel the stinging in your heart at the thought of your marriage and it caused the fix to pull you away from the other hybrids and into his arms protectively. “But you don’t have to listen to him anymore. You’re with us now, you’re free. What they taught you was so- it’s stupid.” You couldn’t help but laugh, giving the hybrid a gentle kiss to his lips. “I know it is…still- I feel this heavy sense of guilt about it all. Even if it wasn’t what I wanted and I don’t agree with it, it’s what I was raised and taught to do…it took a lot for me not to obey Jason and leave with him that day when he came because everything in me was screaming to not disappoint him and that I had to listen to him.” They all frowned at that, their scents souring as Jeongin’s arms tightened their hold on you. “If you hadn’t been out there with me I may have gone with him…thank you, Innie.” The fox hummed softly, pressing a kiss to the side of your neck where his bite mark was still imbedded. It was scared over now, a constant reminder that the two of you were now bonded inseparably. Unlike your marriage, however, it felt comforting to you. You knew Jeongin would never demand anything from you, and so the bonds of mating felt more gentle and protective than binding and controlling.

This was how your days with the hybrids went on. With the news of Jeongin successfully mating you, the hybrids were a bit in shock at first. Curiously, Minho had interrogated the both of you as to what changes had happened since the bite as you told him of your growing bond with the youngest hybrid. Chan had been��oddly pleased. He was curious as well, asking about as many questions as Minho. When they found out you could smell them now everyone excitedly began asking what you thought their scents smelled like. You explained it as best as you could, though some were easier to pinpoint than others. Seungmin was cedar, sweet yet strong and when you told him as much he blushed something furiously and hid behind a laughing Changbin who quickly shut up as a blush of his own fanned over his cheeks hearing you compliment his overwhelmingly warm cinnamon scent. Felix and Minho were harder to place, something sweet and spicy that blended together well and caused you to feel comforted and warm. Jisung was very sweet like syrup or honey, something that you felt suited him well. Hyunjin was like fresh wild flowers, something bright and sunny and it made you smile as he would snuggle into your side while you were in the kitchen or drape himself over you on the couch while you rested. Chan’s was a strong scent of sandalwood that reminded you of a cologne your grandfather used to wear before he passed, he had always been fond of you and always treated you kindly as he hadn’t been a part of the religious group you were raised in. Unfortunately you saw less and less of him as you grew older until one day you were told of his passing, devastating you greatly as you never had a chance to say goodbye. Jeongin’s scent was the most comforting to you, though you assumed that was because of the mating bond you shared. Balsam was never a scent that appealed to you before meeting him, but now it smelled like coming home, like safety and security. Overall their scents were pretty woodsy and natural and it made you feel so at home to be surrounded by them all.

As days turned into weeks you felt the threat whispered to you by your husband were only a distant memory fading into obscurity.

You were currently cuddled up with Hyunjin on the couch, mindlessly running your fingers through his hair as you read by the light of the fireplace. It was starting to get dark out and the canines were on their weekly patrol, set to arrive back sometime soon. Since a lot of the chores were cut down due to the weather, Minho had allowed Changbin to help him with dinner that evening and give you the night off. It was nice to be able to just relax, even though the chores you were tasked with weren’t all that strenuous you still enjoyed time to rest and spend together with the hybrids or even by yourself on rare occasion.

A noise from outside caught you off guard, your newly sensitive ears picking up sounds that sometimes the hybrids themselves counted off as nothing and tended to drown out.

Whispering. You heard two people whispering and the sound of footsteps crunching in the snow.

Before you could even process what you were doing you were making your way to the front door as you pulled your loose cardigan tighter around yourself. “Pretty? What is it?” Hyunjin called out, getting up instantly to follow after you. “Someone’s here…I think- no…Jinnie stay here.” You said softly, giving his cheek a soft peck before you headed out into the cold.

*violence starts here*

There, standing at the bottom of the front porch steps, was a face you never thought you’d see again.

Her light brown hair was pulled back, showing off her sharp pointed features. Her nose was upturned, a look of disgust clearly evident as she watched you with so much disappointment and judgment it made your skin crawl. “M-Mama?” Jason, who stood beside the older woman, smirked at you before stepping up to meet you at the front door. “I told you that I would be back, dear wife.” His words were like venom, spat with so much distain for you and you flinched as his face came mere inches from your own.

“Jason I- why did you bring her…” he scoffed, rolling his eyes as if it were obvious. “To talk some sense into you, of course. Clearly you have forgotten your place in this world.”

Your blood ran cold from the tone of his voice, a shiver running through you that you were sure wasn’t just from the wind blowing and snow starting to fall once more on the mountain. “You need to listen to your husband, y/n. This is not how I raised you.” Her voice was bittersweet, like cough syrup so sickeningly sweet to make the bitter drugs easier to stomach. “Come now, it’s time for you to leave.”

You frantically shook your head, backing up against the door to retreat safely inside but Jason wasn’t having any of it. He grabbed hold of your wrist tightly, causing you to scream out in pain. “Shut up and listen for once you ungrateful bitch.” He shouted, the palm of his hand making contact with your cheek leaving a sharp stinging pain in its wake. “Mama please- please I can’t go with him he-he tried to kill me!” You shouted to your mother, hoping your pleas would somehow soften her even though that is not the woman you knew your mother to be. She had always been rather cold towards you and your siblings, often times telling you how she never wanted children at all. You never once felt warmth or love from her, no matter how hard you tried to please her. Still- surely she wouldn’t make you go home with the man who had wanted you dead, right? “Oh quit those ridiculous lies and obey your husband. He knows what’s best for you.”

Hot tears began to spill down your cheeks at her careless words, her hand waving dismissively towards you as you still struggled to pull away from Jason’s strong grip.

At the sound of your screaming, Hyunjin couldn’t wait any longer where he had been standing on the other side of the door. Even though he was scared, he took a deep breath and once outside his eyes widened at the sight. In front of him you were being pulled down the stairs by your husband, cheek slightly swollen from where you had been struck and his grip on you so tight it threatened to break your wrist as your mother stood with arms crossed over her chest as if she was getting impatient with your stubbornness.

The ferret had to think fast, glancing behind him once at the house where Minho and Changbin had once been before running to get Seungmin and Chan. Felix and Jisung were instructed to stay upstairs in a room and lock the doors until they arrived back with the canines. It was only him left to protect you.

With all the courage he could muster the hybrid charged forward and threw all of his body weight into the man, knocking both of them to the ground with a thud. “Hyune-“ you said in shock, quickly helping him up and off of where Jason lay cursing in the snow.

“You stupid fucking animal! Don’t you know not to stick your nose in places it doesn’t belong?!” He screeched, standing up and stalking towards where the two of you were running up the stairs to get back inside. Jason’s fist curled into the ferret’s long black hair and pulled him back as the hybrid let out a pained scream. “Hyunjin!” You turned to watch in terror as Jason slammed him to the ground my his hair, giving him a hard punch to the face before beginning to kick him in the stomach repeatedly. “Stupid fucking mutts, all of you are.” He spat, Hyunjin curling in instinctually on himself to try and protect himself from the blows. You made to run and protect him but the hybrid looked up and gave you a pained look. “Go inside, Pretty! Lock the doors and don’t come out!” You hesitated, feeling sick to your stomach at the thought of leaving him there but at your hesitancy he screamed. “Go!” That was the push you needed, stumbling a bit as you ran inside the house and frantically began calling out for Minho though weren’t aware he had already left to find the wolf hybrid for help.

In your desperation to find the cat hybrid you had forgotten to close and lock the door behind you as Hyunjin had instructed, a cold chill running up your spine as you heard a voice speak up behind you. “You really were always such a useless girl.” Your mother said coldly, causing you to whip around and face the woman. “I remember when you were born you wouldn’t stop crying, so pathetic. I knew then that you would never stop being a disappointment. The first born being a girl was a terrible omen for your father and I, I should have drowned you before you were old enough to talk back and disobey.”

You froze with fear, watching her walking towards you with malice practically oozing out of her. “Mama please-“ She scoffed, backing you into the kitchen as you felt along the counter blindly to hold your balance from how hard you were shaking. “Don’t call me that. You lost the right to call me your mother a long time ago.” She spat, inching closer to you with each step. Your hand suddenly felt the handle of the kitchen knife Minho had been using to prepare dinner, your fingers clutching it like a lifeline as you quickly swung the sharp instrument out in front of you. “St-Stay back, mama! I don’t want to hurt you-“ Your voice was shaking, hands trembling though you gripped the blade’s handle with both hands as tight as you could manage. Her laugh was vile, causing the hairs on the back of your neck to stand up as she still advanced towards you. “And what exactly do you plan on doing? You’re such a weak, dim little girl. So ignorant and yet so stubborn.” You closed your eyes tightly, fighting her words in your mind as they swarmed around you like mosquitoes on a hot summers day threatening to drain you of your confidence and self worth as they had so much as a child.

Meanwhile, out in the snow, Jason continued his assault on the ferret. He continued to kick and punch the hybrid, Hyunjin letting out pathetic whimpers as he begged the man to stop.

Suddenly, an unknown force knocked Jason off his feet and into the biting cold of the snow covered ground. When he looked up he was met with the snarling face of a bright red fox, spit dripping off sharp fangs onto his face and for once in his life the man was actually afraid.

Jeongin growled deep in his chest, snarling at the man as Hyunjin struggled to sit up as he coughed up and spat blood from the beating he had taken. “Innie-“ his voice was hoarse, barely above a whisper and it fell on deaf ears as suddenly the younger hybrid began to claw and bite at the man’s face and chest. Hyunjin had to look away, unable to watch the horrific scene but he also couldn’t bring it in himself to stop the younger from doing so.

The fox was furious, practically drunk on his rage the second he felt your fear wash over him even from miles away in the forest he knew something was terribly wrong. When he finally burst through the clearing and saw Jason standing over the older hybrid with you nowhere in sight it was like a blinding white hot fire was lit inside of him and he couldn’t hold back as he continuously ripped into the man below him.

Back in the kitchen your mother continues to insult you, taunting you, and you feel yourself loosing your grip on reality the closer she got to you. “I knew I never should have married you to someone as young and full of potential. You would only hold Jason back and he would have been a much better fit for your little sister. Should have married you to Jeremiah instead, he’s much older and knows how to keep his wife in line.” You shook your head at the thought, the man she spoke of being almost as old as your father and already having three wives with one even younger than the last. “You are so useless you couldn’t even do something as simple as stay by your husband. You are such a disgrace, bringing dishonor to your father and me. Think of what everyone will say about us now that our daughter has abandoned her husband.”

You felt a deep since of guilt wash over you and you shook your head, eyes closed shut tightly. “Shut up! Shut up- just go away!” You shouted, but she only moved closer. “We have done everything for you to make sure you would have a good life and you are such an ungrateful child that you are throwing it all away. So entitled and spoiled! You are a blight on our family.” You screamed over her, eyes still closed as you lunged forward suddenly. “I said shut up!”

Before you could register your actions the knife in your hands sunk into her abdomen, eyes widened and stomach churning at the feeling. You looked up, gaze falling upon your mother’s shocked face as she let out a pained gasp before crumpling to the ground clutching the now gushing wound with both hands.

You immediately fell to your knees, panicking as you looked from your mother’s pained expression to the wound you had caused, to the rapidly growing puddle of blood on the kitchen floor. “M-Mama? Oh- oh no..no-“ You pulled her close, blood now staining your clothes and hands as you applied pressure to her wound.

“Pretty? Oh god-“ Minho’s voice sounded from in front of you as he walked in on the scene of you desperately trying to help your mother’s dying form. “Minho oh- please! We- we have to help her she’s- she’s hurt!” You cried now, tears falling freely as you smiled down at the woman in your arms. “Mama everything is gonna be okay- M-Minho is a really good healer he can help you-“ But when you looked down again here body was still, chest no longer moving with her shallow breathing and her eyes glossed over. “M-Mama?….Mama?!?” You began shaking her, as if trying to get her to wake up from a deep slumber as Felix now entered the room with a loud gasp seeing you covered in blood on the kitchen floor with your mother’s now dead body in front of you. “Mama! Please!” You screamed at her, even slapping her across the face in your desperation and Minho had to pull you away from her. Reality set in as he now held your sobbing frame against his chest, his body shaking along with your own as he stroked your hair comfortingly. The cat hybrids shared a look of concern before both of their eyes fell on the corpse now lying on their kitchen floor.

Jason’s screams fell on deaf ears at the fox continued to maul his flesh, the sounds quickly dying off as his teeth sunk into the meat of his neck and bit down, successfully ripping the flesh as the man beneath him let out a quiet gurgling sound as the life slowly faded out of him. Just then a large body knocked the fox down onto the crimson covered snow and he snarled a bit before recognizing the wolf over him, his body shifting until Jeongin’s human form began trembling in the cold. He was naked and covered in blood, the evidence of his animalistic killing covering his flesh now as Chan too shifted back into his human form as he caged the younger hybrid on the ground. “Chan-hyung…what-“ The wolf got up slowly and when Jeongin looked over to the now unrecognizable body of your husband laying in the snow his stomach wretched and he had to turn over on his side not to vomit all over himself. Oh god…he had done that- in his rage filled state it had felt almost like a distant dream…a nightmare he couldn’t escape from. Seeing it was all real caused the hybrid to break out into a choked sob.

*violence ends here (some mentions of what happened but nothing explicit)*

The wolf silently picked the younger hybrid up into his arms, carrying him inside when his eyes fell on where Minho was still holding you though you seemed to have entered a catatonic state, frozen and staring off into nothing as the cat hybrid looked at the oldest for help. Your mother still lay lifeless on the floor and Felix was crying as Changbin carried in a wounded Hyunjin and laid him down on the cleared off kitchen table so that they could bandage him up and treat his wounds.

“Pretty, go with Chan-hyung and Innie.” Minho spoke softly against your temple as he pressed a gentle kiss there, helping you to rise from your spot on the floor before guiding you to Chan’s awaiting arms.

As Minho went to help the others with Hyunjin, the wolf hybrid carefully guided both you and Jeongin into the bathroom in the back of his bedroom, setting both of you on the floor as he ran hot water into the bath.

You stared off at the wall, a numbness washing over you as you couldn’t handle the weight of what you had just done, while the hybrid next to you sobbed quietly.

The mix of the emptiness you felt with the crushing emotion Jeongin was feeling left you both lost as you couldn’t comprehend the juxtaposition of it all.

Once the bath was filled Chan turned to you and began stripping you carefully of your blood soaked clothes, discarding them in a pile on the floor. He helped both of you into the tub, the space odd to you as his bath was much larger than the one in the hall bath you and the other hybrids used.

Chan knelt beside the tub as he carefully washed the blood away from both of your bodies, Jeongin’s sobs quieting down to a stop as he now sat beside you just as numb as you were with his eyes red and puffy and his cheeks slightly sticky from the tears.

It was a while before anyone said anything, the wolf speaking up with a quiet voice. “I should have been here…I’m so sorry pretty, Ayen-ah..I should have protected you better.” The fox let out a little whimper at his words and you shook your head, hand coming to grasp his wrist and that’s when he noticed the deep bruising left behind from when your husband had tried to force you into leaving with him. A tear rolled down his cheek, free hand quickly wiping it away but you hadn’t missed it, tugging his hand to your face until you could press a kiss against his palm softly. “It’s over now….no use dwelling on it.” You said softly, though the emptiness in your voice sent a chill through the hybrids. You looked like a husk of your usually warm and bubbly self. The gentleness was still there but your eyes were hollow and it made Jeongin feel an unease as he shivered in the slowly cooling water. “Okay, you’re all clean- out.” Chan smiled weakly, helping both of you stand up and exit the tub before handing a towel to the younger hybrid for him to dry off. When he held a towel out you simply stared at it and he sighed, wrapping it around you himself before gently patting it against your skin. “Let’s get you dried off, yeah? Don’t want you catching a cold…” The way he was being so gentle stirred something within you, and before you could second guess your actions you leaned up and pressed your lips to his firmly.

His eyes widened, hands tightening their hold on the towel still in his hands. The wolf was shocked, to say the least, but allowed himself to melt into the kiss. When you pulled away and he caught sight of the fox now standing beside you he expected him to growl, maybe get possessive of you as his mate. What he wasn’t expecting was the younger hybrid to wrap his arms around the wolf’s neck and pull him into a kiss of their own, confusion flooding his brain as he once again allowed himself to be kissed deeply now by the younger hybrid.

Jeongin’s lips were softer than he expected, Chan quickly finding himself feeling intoxicated by the kiss. He wasn’t sure at first what this was but then it clicked, you both needed him. You needed to feel safe, close….you needed intimacy. He could smell it on both of you and so he pulled away, forehead resting against Jeongin’s as both hybrids caught their breath.

You let out a little whimper, towel falling off of your shoulders as you pressed your naked body against both of them. The wolf chuckled lightly, shaking his head at how needy you sounded before placing a hand at the back of your neck to pull you in for another kiss and you went so willingly.

As you and Chan deepened your kiss, Jeongin’s attention switched between kissing both of your necks and leaving little nipping bites there. A groan left the wolf and slowly he began to pull both of you back towards the bed until he was falling against it with the two of you on top of him.

You kissed down his neck, meeting Jeongin at some point as your lips locked in a heated and passionate kiss. The bond you both shared made you both feel like you had been lit ablaze with your desire to be closer with one another, hands roaming each others bodies where you sat over the wolf hybrid who watched you both hungrily.

Things continued this way for a while, you and the fox hybrid lost in exploring one another while Chan laid beneath you entranced by the sight. When Jeongin’s hand found it’s way between your legs, fingers gently swiping between your folds you let out a soft moan, biting down on his lower lip causing him to growl and slowly push a finger inside of you in an attempt to pull more reactions out of you. Your arms wrapped around his shoulder, clinging to the younger hybrid as he began pumping his slender finger inside of you slowly and you barely made out the sound of Chan’s own moans mixing with your own as he began stroking his cock at the show the two of you were putting on for him.

Your legs began to give out when Jeongin added another finger, his movements curious and explorative as he nipped and kissed your neck and collar bone now. “I-Innie..” You whimpered, feeling like you may fall over from the stretch. Chan seemed to notice this and carefully pulled himself out from under you and grabbed the fox’s attention by kissing the side of his neck up to his ear, whispering huskily to him. “Doing so good, kit. Making our pretty feel so good.” It was Jeongin’s turn to whimper at the praise, his pace with his fingers stuttering before Chan wrapped his hand around the younger’s wrist and slowly pulled him away from your core earning a gasp from you at the loss.

The fox hybrid gave him a confused look which Chan smiled at before kissing him softly. “Do you trust me?” Jeongin nodded immediately, looking to you and you gave a nod in agreement, smiling at both the hybrids shyly. “Then follow my lead.” The fox swallowed hard at his words, stuttering out an “o-okay” before watching as Chan sat back against the pillows at the head of the bedframe, pulling you back with him so you were laying with your back pressed to his chest. Slowly, gently, the wolf hybrid spread your legs out and Jeongin followed his hyung’s movements where he reached down to rub your clit in slow circles that made your back arch against him and a low moan escape your lips as your head was thrown back against his shoulder. Jeongin wished in that moment that he was a painter like Hyunjin, as he wished he could paint the scene before him to look back on forever. Chan gave him a smirk, nodding for the younger hybrid to join them and he wasn’t about to deny his hyung anything in that moment.

Jeongin laid with his chest against the mattress, face between your legs as he watched closely his hyung’s fingers sink inside of you one after another before moving both of them in a slow scissoring motion to stretch you open for the younger. The fox felt himself drooling at the sight, unable to help himself from licking curiously around the fingers inside of you as the smell coming from you was so sweet he was sure it was taste just as sweet. Your moans were increasing in volume as Chan fingered you and Jeongin now licked and sucked at your clit driving you crazy.

Carefully, the older hybrid removed his fingers and before he could completely pull them away Jeongin wrapped both hands around his wrist and brought them into his mouth as he licked and sucked them clean, moaning around the digits as Chan cursed under his breath.

You whined, pulling Jeongin up into a deep and hungry kiss. You could taste yourself on his tongue and it made you moan into his mouth as you felt his hard and leaking cock brush against your entrance and your hand slipped between your bodies to stroke him slowly. The younger hybrid whimpered against your lips, hips bucking up into your hand as Chan’s labored breathing echoed behind you.

You pulled back from the kiss, looking up at Jeongin with desperation pooling in your eyes and blowing your pupils so wide your irises were almost completely black. “Need you inside me, innie.” His choked on the moan that tried to escape him as you clumsily brought the tip of his cock to your entrance, feeling both of your heartbeats quicken in pace as he nodded to you unable to form words at that moment.

As Jeongin pushed himself inside he let out a whimper, brows knit together and eyes closed tightly and Chan couldn’t take his eyes off of him, tongue darting out to lick over his lower lip as you gasped from the stretch. Your hands clutched at the younger hybrid’s biceps tightly, nails making crescent shaped indents in the skin as he full sank into you. With your hips flush together you both let out moans that are like a harmony in Chan’s mind as he began to leave kisses along your neck, his hot breath fanning across your skin as Jeongin began thrusting slowly and a bit clumsily.

You quickly became a mess between them, thighs trembling as you squirmed from the pleasure when one of Chan’s hands found its way between the two of you to rub two fingers against your clit in time with the brutal pace the younger had settled into, letting his instincts take over. At some point you notice the base of his cock becoming thicker than the rest of him, eyes widening as you looked up at the fox. Seeing your reaction to the younger’s knot Chan smirked, leaning in to whisper in your ear. “Such a good mate for our innie, pretty. You’re taking him so well, gonna take his knot too yeah?” You whimpered, head falling back against his shoulder and effectively baring the unmarked side of your neck to the wolf. The gesture did something to him and before he could even process it his teeth were sinking into your flesh, sharp canines breaking the skin causing you to scream and your hips to jerk violently as your climax crashed into you roughly causing Jeongin to have to pin them down against the wolf hybrid’s own hips as he forced his knot inside and came with a growl so loud it made you whimper.

You laid there for a moment, feeling a bit spent as Chan now licked over the bite he had left and Jeongin collapsed against your chest while his knot was still locked inside of you, your chests both rising and falling against each other and you suddenly felt a wave of indescribable emotions wash over you. In addition to Jeongin’s and your own pleasure you could feel Chan’s now too, causing you to wine lowly and reach back to tangle your fingers in the wolf’s hair. He groaned, pulling away from your neck with a slightly confused expression. “Y-You too, Channie…” you said breathlessly, eyes still so wanton and he growled at the sight. “Pretty, you don’t have to…” he said, though you could feel how desperate he was becoming after having watched both you and the younger hybrid come undone. “Please?” You said with a pout, the older hybrid chuckling a bit as he nodded and gave into his own desire.

Carefully he slipped out from under you and helped you to lay back against the pillows where he had been, making sure not to jostle the two of you where you were still locked together. You winced slightly but recovered quickly as you brought one hand up to card your fingers through the fox hybrid’s hair and the other wrapped around Chan’s leaking cock before bringing it to your lips where he now stood at the edge of the bed.

You opened wide, tongue peeking out as you slowly took him into your mouth. You couldn’t help but moan at the weight against your tongue and the slightly tangy taste of his skin, listening to him moaning above you as you began bobbing your head gently. Jeongin watched for a moment where he laid against your chest, relishing in the afterglow as you gently scratched behind his ears while sucking his hyung so sensually he himself couldn’t help but moan at the taste. He wasn’t sure who he felt more jealous of in that moment, so he decided to test something out and leaned forward to lick at what you couldn’t fit in your mouth, his hand coming down to cup Chan’s balls in his hand and the older let out a loud gasp as his hands flew to tangle in both of your hair.

You and Jeongin began taking turns, now the fox had Chan’s length down his throat as drool slowly dripped from his lips and you left bites and kisses along the older hybrid’s thighs and hips. He didn’t last long when you finally got him back in your mouth, taking him all the way down your throat with a little struggle as you looked up at him with tearful eyes from the stretch. Without warning he was cumming inside of your mouth and you moaned at the feeling, eyes rolling back in your head as you came untouched around the fox where his knot was slowly going down inside of you. When Chan pulled back Jeongin was quick to pull you in for a kiss, the older hybrid’s cum being shared between the two of you and if he hadn’t just came he swore he would be hard again at the sight.

Pulling himself away from the scene, Chan went to the bathroom and cleaned himself up quickly, returning with two wet wash clothes and a fluffy towel he began cleaning the two of you up gently while you laid absolutely wrecked side by side on his bed. You felt nothing but bliss in that moment, everything from before so far out of your mind as the wolf hybrid discarded the towel and rags to the floor and slipped into bed beside you.

You lay there in between the two hybrids, feeling secure, feeling loved as you let sleep overcome you and the soft snores from Jeongin behind you lulled you while Chan traced slow shaped onto the arm you had draped over him. Everything was going to be okay, you were safe.

You were home.

author’s note; so….happy new year? ૮꒰ “ . . ꒱ა uh- don’t hate me for that rollercoaster of a chapter?? okayloveyouguysplsenjoybyebye

taglist; (pink users I wasn’t able to tag) @coastinglove @estella-novella @chancloud8 @skzswife @motheraiya55 @zofia515 @skybluelixie @breadedloafs @inaribu00 @silly250 @royal-shinigami @thatgirlangelb @bby-boo4u @emmxxsworld @vampkittenb82 @h0rnyp0t @alisonyus @im-sinking-in-mud @ihrtlix @mrs-hwangh @danixiulin @wolfo2027 @kiaralynn3838 @ateez-atiny380 @daceyena @bookswillfindyouaway @blackcatpandora @popcatx0 @corgilover20 @marshmelonie @sassy-snassy @straykidslover2024 @xgridx @y4yayael @dreamerwasfound

[breadedloafs]

what a way to end off the year! in style and amazing writing😎

also kinda wanna see buggy be a bumbling idiot around a child lolllll (mihawk would absolutely body him if he fucked up too badly but it’d be funny)

Peppermint Tea 37 - Hibiscus 2

Summary: Time passes, and you settle in with your boys. Tomura meets his niece, and a certain ex-warlord calls Mihawk

*warnings* some smut. Lot of stuff happens this chapter. It's a big one!

*Note!* This will be the last official chapter of Peppermint Tea! I have an epilogue planned that will be posted later today, but it's more of a *where are they at after 10 years* lol. I want to thank all you lovely people who have come by and read and commented on this massive work. You guys are what drove me to finally come back and finish this. I really hope you guys have enjoyed the ride!

Peppermint Tea Masterlist-> HERE

“Oh, she’s so cute!” Perona squeals and Mihawk gives his older daughter a narrow-eyed look to quiet down. The ghost girl gives a sheepish grin as she floats closer to take a closer look at Joyeuse, her baby sister. The babe watches her with big, golden eyes, and Perona is hard-pressed to not snatch her up and run away with her. 

You are watching from the couch, Shanks stretched out beside you so that you can rest your head against his shoulder with a fond look. You feel full, content in a way that you’ve never been before to have your most precious people all in the same room. All you were missing now was your brother, but according to Shanks, he would be here soon. 

Joyeuse gurgles and drools against her father’s chest, eyes watching the way the pinkett's hair bounces whenever she shakes her head. A hand is suddenly in reach, and Joy happily snuggles into the warmth it provides when it’s lain over her chest. She always knew who was holding her by their warmth. Mother was always cool, Father was almost scorching at times, but Papa. He was perfect.

“Do you want to hold her?” you ask Perona and laugh when the girl sits down faster than you’ve ever seen the other woman move, “Just make sure you support her head.” 

Mihawk steps over to Perona and walks her through the best way to hold Joyeuse. He’d become rather protective to the point it was overbearing lately if you were honest with yourself. If you didn’t have your daughter, then Mihawk was the one holding her 80% of the time. You’d mentioned it to Shanks, but the redhead didn’t seem to have a problem with it, stating that he had far less dirty diapers to change. 

“Stop squirming, girl,” Mihawk grumbles and then slowly transfers his daughter over when Perona stills. He watches the young woman coo over the babe, chest feeling tight at the display before him. Both of his girls so close together, the swordsman only wished that Zoro were here to see this. He would need to write to the young man soon and tell him the good news. 

Mihawk relaxes once he is confident that Perona has a good hold on Joy, and makes his way to the couch where he sits on your other side. You snake a hand into his lap and he indulges you by threading his fingers with your own, the edges of his lips curling into a tiny smile. 

“When is my brother supposed to be here?” you ask quietly. You’re beyond nervous to see him again, but terribly excited at the same time. It’s been over twenty years since you’ve seen your brother, and you can’t help but wonder how much he’s changed from the boy you remember from your dreams. 

“Another day or so, most likely, sweetheart,” Shanks says and turns to press a kiss to the top of your head, “He left the same day I called.” 

Shanks had gotten in trouble with Mihawk for not telling the other man about his decision to call Tomura, but he couldn’t bring himself to care too much. The older man would keep you away from your brother if he had it his way, if only to avoid any awkward conversions, or a fight breaking out. The redhead can’t imagine that Delemur would be too happy to find out that his little sister had gotten knocked up by an ex-warlord and emperor of the sea. 

His eyes find their daughter and a smile lights up his face. Well, after Tomura meets his lovely niece, Shanks doesn’t see any kind of confrontation happening. Joyeuse had a smile that could melt the coldest man’s heart. 

----

Tomura is practically vibrating on the spot when he finally spots Sphinx in the distance. He had swapped out of his Vice-Admiral uniform and left the massive navy cruiser behind on their last stop at port. He didn’t want to show up on the island Whitebeard was born looking like he planned on starting something, especially since he knew that Newgate’s first mate now lived there. It was only himself and a few select members of his crew, the ones who Tomura knew wouldn’t breathe a word about this place. 

“Nervous, Vice-Admiral?” Nitchell asked. His commander was gripping the rails of the ship hard enough his knuckles had turned white, his face set into an even deeper scowl than usual. He gave a little shrug when Delemur cut his eyes at him, lips pulling into a frown. 

“My little sister has been in the company of dangerous pirates for the past two and a half years. Of course, I’m nervous,” He snaps at the younger man. Tomura had let his imagination run rampant. Were you still the darling sister that he doted on all those years ago, or had you changed into something harder? He almost didn’t want to find out. 

Delemur didn’t care that Shanks and Mihawk had told him that they loved you. That you had apparently become important to them. He was your big brother, so he would trust your word on the matter, and if you even looked uncomfortable in their presence then he would scoop you up and run. 

It felt like a lifetime had passed by the time they had docked and made it to shore. The tiny port town was bustling with locals going about their business, and only spared him and his men a passing glance. Shanks had told them that there would be someone waiting for them at the edge of town, but once he got there, he wasn't expecting to see Marco the Phoenix waiting for them.

“Vice-Admeral Delemur,” Marco drawls almost lazily. He doesn’t like seeing the navy man on his island, but he knows that Tomura is one of the better marines and most likely wouldn’t try to cause any trouble for the locals. They’d never officially met before, since Tomura had never ventured too far into Whitebeard’s territory. 

“Marco the Phoenix,” Tomura rumbled back, “Where’s my sister?” 

The pirate doctor quirks his lips and crosses his arms. “Just up the hill a ways. Are you ready?”  

Tomura swallows and dips his head in a nod, forcing his hands to stop shaking, “As I’ll ever be.” 

He orders his men to disperse within the town. Delemur didn’t want to overwhelm you with too many people, after all, before he followed Marco up the hill. They walk for a while, passing by homey cottages until they come to a house that faces the sea. It’s small, though bigger than the cottage Tomura remembers from your island and looks freshly painted. There is a big shaggy dog lounging on the porch that perks up whenever they get closer, brown eyes looking them over before he barks to get the attention of his humans inside. 

Tomura waits, and then the door opens. He can’t help but scowl when the redheaded emperor struts out followed by the smarmy ex-warlord, but the look on his face morphs into astonishment when you follow the two men out. He wants to close the distance between the two of you and wrap you up in a hug so tight that you’d never escape from. Instead, he stands frozen, looking at you like one might a ghost. 

You flick your eyes over the man, taking in that white hair that makes you ache, the familiar shape of his jaw, and the brilliant green of his eyes. There is a vertical scar on the right side of his mouth that you don’t remember being there before. There are dark bags under his eyes, and you wonder if your brother had gotten any sleep while traveling here. You step off the porch, thankful that you’ve healed enough in the past three weeks that it took for him to get here. 

“Tomura?’ you say quietly, and that’s all it takes for the dam to break. The man is striding forward in an instant, sweeping you up into a hug and you wrap your own arms around him, hugging your brother as tightly as you can. Snow sprouts around you, your devil fruit reacting to the surge of emotions that make your head spin. 

“Gods, princess, It’s good to see you,” Tomura rasps against your hair, and you tear up, the old nickname a soft reminder that makes tears well up in your eyes. Your brother plows on before you can even think about getting a word in. 

“After I heard those rumors about you I had to come back, had to make sure that you were safe, but none of us got there in time. Did they hurt you? Have they hurt you?” 

You pull away at that, not liking what Tomura was trying to insinuate, and shake your head at him, a frown on your lips. 

“I’m fine, Tomura. I was with Big Mom only a couple of days and Katakuri made sure that I was comfortable,” you assure him, and then look behind you at your boys who stand ready to intervene if need be, “And those two would never hurt me.” 

Tomura frowns down at you, brows creased, “They're pirates, princess, dangerous ones. You never should have met them to begin with.” 

Shanks steps up, his usual friendly aura replaced by one of annoyance. Maybe this hadn't been such a good idea. He didn't think that Tomura would try and turn you against them, not that he thought it would work, mind you, but still, it chafed at the redhead. 

“Well, she did, so stop trying to make us out to be the bad guys. We're the ones who kept her company while you were too busy playing marine.” 

The tension in the air skyrocketed at that, and Tomura pulls his sister away from the redhead, stepping between them, “And she would have stayed safe if you'd not opened your fat mouth, you fuck.”

Mihawk narrows his eyes, about to step in and put a stop to his farce of a reunion, when you speak up, voice full of such disappointment that it makes his own heart race. 

“That is enough, Tomura. I wanted you here so that I could get to know you again, not so you could spit and argue like a damn cat. I might have stayed safe if Mihawk had never found me, but I would have stayed alone and hidden from the world until I died. You had twenty years to come and visit me, but you never did. You left me alone, stranded on that island with no one to talk to, no one to comfort me, and I was six! You don’t get to have a say in who I keep company with. You lost that privilege a long time ago.” 

Tomura stares at his little sister in shock, guilt eating at him. You weren’t wrong. He’d left you there and hadn’t even thought about paying you a visit, far too worried that the military would find out about you. Before he can try and defend himself, you soften and reach out to take his hand in your own, your fingers ice cold. 

“I don’t want to fight with you, big brother,” You say, and any ill intent that Tomura has deflated when you call him that, “I want to be a family, and you need to accept that they are a part of that.” 

Tomura takes a second to collect himself. It’s been over two decades, but he is still wrapped around your little finger. He deflates and smooths a hand over his face, giving you a weary smile that you return, “Okay, princess. No more fighting.” 

Mihawk saunters forward, taking up the space just behind you, “Glad to see that you’ve come to your senses, Vice-Admiral. Now, do you want to meet your niece or not?” 

You and Shanks cackle at the gob-smacked look that paints your brother’s face, only laughing harder when he looks at his sister for confirmation, and she nods her head, a smile stretching across her face. Marco steps up behind him and slaps his shoulder, grinning at the stunned man. 

“Don’t worry. You weren’t the only one surprised to know that these two powerhouses were having a baby. I’ll have to tell you about the first time Shanks tried to change her diaper.” 

Tomura grimaces at the imagery, and then he is being tugged inside the house, led through the living room, and to the nursery that’s been set up in the back. The room is painted a soft purple, and a rocking chair in the corner, and there, in the center of the room is a wooden bassinet. You lead him over to it, and Tomura stares down at the new member of his family. 

She is beautiful, her hair a fluffy red just a shade darker than her father’s, those eyes an exact copy of the ex-warlord’s, but everything else was you. Tomura still remembered what you looked like as a babe, the joy on mother's face when she had shown you to him for the first time. There would be no argument over who her parents would be. 

“What’s her name?” He asks and reaches out, trailing his fingertips over the red fluff of her hair, and smiling when the babe gurgles at him. 

“Joyeuse,” you murmur beside him, and lean into his side, your hand joining his own, “Mihawk came up with it.” 

“It’s a fitting name,” Tomura says, and you beam at your big brother. It gladdened you to see that Joy already had her uncle wrapped around her pinky. You knew that any bad blood between him and your lovers would settle in time, though you could still foresee some tense moments happening. But even with the tension, having your brother here makes you happy, your family finally all together. 

----

The next couple of weeks are filled with getting to know your brother again, and after a while, Tomura grudgingly begins to get along with Shanks and Mihawk. The three men could be found playing cards with some of the redhead’s crew on lazy days, you watching from the front porch and entertaining Joyeuse with your devil fruit. However, at some point, Tomura needs to leave, to go back to the navy. 

Joyeuse had cried that day on the docks when your family had gathered to say goodbye to her uncle, and you had given him a teary-eyed hug, the babe pressed between the two of you. 

“I promise to visit, princess,” Tomura swears quietly and presses a kiss to Joy’s brow who fusses and scowls up at him like it was his fault that she was upset. 

“You better,” You grumble at him, and then he is pulling away with a wave of his hand. You watched him board the small ship he’d arrived on, and then he was gone, disappearing as the waves pushed him further away from you. 

Mihawk steps close behind you, his hand coming up to cup your waist as he bends to press a kiss to the side of your head, “He’ll be back, my love.” 

You press into his side with a sigh, “I know. I just miss him already.” 

The ex-warlord hums and leads you back through town and up the hill to home where Shanks is waiting for the three of them. Perona takes Joyeuse, assuring them that she can keep the babe entertained while they have some alone time. Tomura wasn’t the only one who would need to leave soon. 

You find Shanks packing a small bag in the bedroom, and your heart lurches at the knowledge that the redhead had to leave as well. Benn had gotten a call last week, and some of the islands under their protection had been raided by an upstart pirate crew thinking that they had found easy pickings. Shanks and his crew were to leave the next morning to go take care of the other pirates. It would be the first time that the redhead would be gone for more than a few hours. 

Shanks smiles when he spots you and stands, opening his arm for you to fall into his side, pressing your face into his chest. Mihawk sits on the bed, watching his two lovers with heavy eyes. He did not wish for Shanks to leave, either, but he knew that with being an emperor, Shanks would always have a responsibility to the people that he claimed under his flag. 

They were still working on finding proper accommodations for you and Joyeuse to call home. While Sphinx was peaceful, you weren’t a fan of the history behind it. Even though it stayed a poor island, people far and wide on the Grand Line would come to visit the island where Edward Newgate was born. He had hoped that Shanks would find a suitable island to stay at.

“I don’t want you to go,” You whine softly against the redhead and clutch him tightly. Everything was perfect right now. You and Joy were safe where you could lavish in your boys’ attention whenever you wanted, and the three of you had just grown closer over the weeks that you were all together.

Shanks sighs and pulls you over to the bed where he flops back, taking you with him and laying his head on Mihawk’s thigh. The other man cards a hand through that red hair, gently scratching his scalp with blunt nails. You shift so that you are draped over him, your face tucked into the crook of his neck. 

“I know baby, and I wouldn’t if this wasn’t important,” Shanks murmurs softly. He hates that he has to leave you right after your brother, but he can’t let some rando pirate crew think that they could encroach on his territory, “You’ll have Mihawk to keep you company, though, and Perona.” 

You know that Mihawk and the pinkette would be here, but it doesn’t make you any less upset that Shanks has to go. You’ve gotten used to having everyone around you, and it hurts to see them leave. You feel him adjust under you, his lips finding the side of your throat and nipping the sensitive skin there lightly. You shiver and rise up to see Shanks looking at you with half-lidded dark eyes, a mischievous smirk on his face, “How about I give you something to remember me by while I’m gone, sweetheart?” 

You flush, heat burning your lower stomach, and you move to sit up, eager for his attention. This was the first time that you’d have the chance to be intimate with either man, for if it wasn’t Tomura stealing your attention, then it was Joyeuse crying for you. You hadn’t minded either, but it had left little time for the three of you to have any kind of alone time. 

“Please?”

Shanks shuffles off of Mihawk so that he lays at the head of the bed. His cock is already hard and aching for you, and he quickly shucks his pants off with an excited grin. The other man shifts to lay on his side, content with watching his two lovers play with one another. You stand to strip off your pants and shirt before you shuffle back up the bed, thighs pressing in on either side of Shanks’ hips. You lean down, lips meeting the redhead's with a soft sigh. 

His tongue presses forward, stroking against your lips and you happily open up for him, tongue meeting his own in a dance of slick muscles. His hand grips your hip, pulling you down as he rocks up into your awaiting heat. You groan and nip his bottom lip, pulling away to smirk down at your lover.  

“Ride his face, darling,” Mihawk rumbles beside the two of you, and you shudder at the thought, pussy clenching around nothing. Shanks makes an eager sound and shuffles a bit down the bed so that you would have more room. Carefully, you scoot forward, knees resting around his head as you hover over him. Mihawk leans forward to watch, eyes bright with interest when Shanks curls his arm around your hip and jerks you down.

“Sit, baby. I'm not gonna break,” Shanks rumbles and you gasp when he licks up your folds, tongue swirling around your clit and making you see stars. Your hands grip the bed frame, head hanging low as your hips snap forward, seeking that delicious pleasure. The redhead groans, pointing his tongue so that he can pierce your leaking cunt. 

The ex-warlord watches in rapt attention, watching Shanks tongue fuck you, watching the way you shake and shiver above the emperor, back arching from pleasure when the redhead suctions his lips around your clit and sucks harshly. You wail, thighs shaking as you come from the suddenness of it, slick coating your folds that Shanks happily licks away with a whine of his own. 

You pull away from the redhead when it becomes too much, and thankfully Shanks allows it. You shift back down the bed, taking his aching length in hand and stroking it from base to tip, free hand pressing against his chest as you lift yourself and then slide down with a hiss through clenched teeth, stuffing yourself with his cock. You don't give yourself much time to adjust, the sting of his girth still present when you roll your hips, groaning when he slips that much deeper. 

“That's it darling rock your hips, make him come undone,” Mihawk rumbles to your left, and you dip your head in a distracted nod, your legs and core working to bounce you up and down the pulsing length inside of you. You crack your eyes open, looking down to see the redhead reach out to grip your hip, his teeth clenched shut as if he was holding himself back from taking control. 

“Fuck, baby,” Shanks croons and he adjusts his legs, scooting his feet up to put you at an angle so that he can snap his hips up, making you gasp and whine when the tip of his cock nudges against that sensitive deep inside of you. He feels you clench around him, feather-soft walls fluttering around his cock and dragging him deeper when you bend forward, resting your brow against his collarbone. He wraps his arm around your lower back, keeping you close as he pistons his hips up, slamming home at a breakneck pace until you are crying out, clenching and shuttering against him as you come. 

Shanks isn't far behind, teeth bared in a snarl, and he pushes as deep as he can go, spilling inside of you and filling your cunt to the brim. You are panting above him, brow furrowed as you slowly sit up, bracing yourself with a hand on his chest. You feel hands gently pushing your hair away from your sweaty brow, and give Mihawk a weak, sappy little grin in return. Carefully, you crawl off your lover and fall to the side with a grunt, your body feeling rung out and exhausted. Shanks rolls so that he can cuddle against you, and Mihawk eases from the bed, a satisfied smirk on his face at seeing his darlings curled up together. 

---

Three weeks after Shanks leaves, you and Mihawk are out on the front porch enjoying cups of steaming tea while Joyeuse naps, when he hears his snail transponder ringing. The two of you share a look, one bemused and the other annoyed before the ex-warlord sighs heavily and stands to go and retrieve the transponder before it wakes Joyeuse. He doesn’t answer the phone until he is back outside, leg crossed over the other. 

Ca-lick

“Mihawk speaking.”

“Mihawk, it’s Crocodile. I heard what happened to your island, bad business that.” 

You perk up, brows going to your hairline as you listen in on the conversation. Mihawk cocks a brow at the transponder. Out of everyone who could have called, he hadn’t expected his fellow ex-warlord to be one of them. 

“Yes, it was rather unfortunate. I was fond of the place, but luckily I wasn’t there when the navy raided the island. Is there a reason why you’re calling?” 

They hear Crocodile laugh on the other end, and then the sound of a strangled squawk that sounds oddly familiar. 

“No beating around the bush with you, eh Hawkeye. Anyway, with the warlords being disbanded, it’s come to my attention that you and I are one in the same. Neither of us trusts easily, so I think that it would be beneficial for us to work together.”

You look at Mihawk in slight alarm. While you weren’t about to ban him from doing what he wanted, you refused to put your daughter into harm's way, and working with Crocodile sounded like it would bring more attention to you and yours than you wanted. Mihawk catches your look and waves a hand, silently telling you to calm down, which you scowl at. 

“And why would I even want to consider that?” 

Crocodile huffs on the other end, the snail rolling its eyes. 

“To create our perfect utopia, of course. The Navy wouldn’t take an organization headed by us lightly. After all, they used to call you ‘Marine Hunter’.” 

Mihawk huffs at the usage of the old name. It’s been years since he had gone by that title, but he can’t deny that the other man speaks the truth. They would make a very formidable pair even without the influence Shanks would inevitably have, “I have better things to do than play at being leader to some ramshackle organization, Crocodile. All I desire is a peaceful life, you know this.” 

“And that’s what the clown is for. He’s been made emperor, so we already have a figurehead to fall back on if things don’t go our way. I’ve got it all planned out.” 

In the back ground they hear another squawk, and this time a voice comes through. 

“Don’t listen to this maniac, Hawkeye! He’s crazy!” 

You can’t help but snort at the sudden interruption, eyes going wide, and you can’t help but wonder if this clown is the same one that Shanks likes to talk about. You couldn’t deny that you wanted to meet him, especially since he was connected to one of your boys.

“Oh, have I interrupted something, Hawkeye?” 

There is a teasing edge to the other man’s voice, and Mihawk narrows his eyes at the snail transponder, “You have actually. I-”

Crocodile cuts him off. 

“This something must be why you continued to disappear for weeks at a time, hmm? Rumors spread like wildfire, Hawkeye, and I’ve heard all about the woman you and Red-Haired Shanks absconded with. Quite the scandal, really.”  

Your heart goes still in your chest, and you share a wide-eyed look with your lover. You knew that it was a possibility that your presence would become more prominent, your lover's were very prominent people after all, but you didn't think it would be so soon. It's only been three months since they found you, and Joy was only around nine weeks. Why couldn't this have come up later, maybe when Joy wasn't an infant? You tune back in when Crocodile speaks again. 

“I'm not threatening you, Hawkeye. I'm simply stating that if I know, then surely the Navy knows as well. What's the saying? Strength in numbers and all that.” 

Mihawk is silent, expression shuddering into a furious expression that makes you shiver. It's rare that anything gets under the ex-warlord’s skin, and this obviously has. He can tell that he is being manipulated by the other man, but at the same time, Crocodile has given nothing but good points so far. As much as he would like, he wouldn't be able to stay here indefinitely, there were still things that he was responsible for, and that would leave you alone. Which was unacceptable after the last time you were left alone. Would he rather risk you being taken again, this time you and his daughter, or would he rather be surrounded by like-minded individuals who would most likely keep the two of you safe? 

Before he can come up with an answer, Crocodile speaks up, tone unusually soft and understanding. 

“Think about it, Hawkeye. You have my number once you come to a decision.”

Ca-lick

The silence is deafening between you, and you bite your lip to keep yourself from saying anything when Mihawk stands, drops the snail, and begins to pace back and forth. You watch him, leg jiggling in anxiousness, and you want more than anything to ask if he is okay, but anyone at that moment could tell that the answer would be no. You are tempted to go inside and retrieve Joyeuse, just to bring yourself some comfort with her soft skin and grabby hands, but the babe doesn't deserve to be in the middle of whatever this is. 

Mihawk is currently in the throes of a mental war. This… organization would keep you and Joyeuse safe, if he was willing to trust Crocodile, Buggy the Clown of all people. Which, granted, he was more inclined to trust the clown on the principle of him having grown up with Shanks on Roger's crew. They were brothers, and if there was one person that Buggy wouldn't betray, it was the redhead. 

But would you be okay with moving to an island filled with unknown pirates? Surrounded by criminals who most likely came from Impel Down? He didn't like the thought of it, but at least there would be others beside him there that could offer you protection, offer you companionship beyond what he and Shanks could provide. It'd also have the added bonus of pissing your brother off, and Mihawk lived for that. 

“Mihawk?” 

Your voice cuts through his internal conflict, and he turns to you, marching forward and kneeling at your side, taking both your hands in his own, “Darling, what do you think?” 

You chew your lip, brow furrowed in thought. Would it be something bad to be surrounded by other people? To have a community, that safety in numbers like Crocodile mentioned? You didn't know, but there wouldn't be a final decision until Shanks was in the know, too.

“Call Shanks. I want his opinion. He's talked about Buggy before, so I'm inclined to trust him, but I don't know anything about Crocodile.”

Mihawk reaches over and snags the snail, rattling off the number for Shanks. It doesn’t take long for the redhead to answer.

Ca-lick

“Mihawk? Everything okay?” 

Mihawk rolls his eyes and shares a fond look with you at the concern the two of you can hear in the emperor’s voice. 

“Everything is fine, Red. Something has come up, however, and we needed to speak with you about it.” 

You listen as Mihawk tells him about Crocodile calling him and the offer to head this organization with the other ex-warlord. He makes sure to mention that Buggy was there in the background but hadn’t said much on account of Crocodile hogging the call. Shanks is quiet on the other end, and if they were with him, you would see the excitement that lingered in his eyes. 

To Shanks, to know that the man, who was his brother in everything but blood, becoming part of his steadily growing family was something that he didn’t realize that he even wanted. 

“Well, I don't think it's a bad idea. I trust Buggy, and Crocodile has always had a soft spot for children. I think it should be up to _, though. She'd be the one alone with them when neither of us can be there.” 

You swallow harshly and then put on a brave face. If Shanks thought it wasn't a bad idea, and Mihawk seemed rather fond of it anyway, then the least you could do was try. 

“I- okay. If that's what you two think is best. I trust my boys to make the right call for me and Joyeuse,” you say and squeeze Mihawk's hand, sending him a tight-lipped smile. 

“We wouldn't do anything to put either of you in danger, baby. I think this will be good for all of us.” 

It certainly took a weight off of Shanks to know that someone he trusted would be able to look after you when he or Mihawk wasn't there with you. And for as much damage Crocodile had done to Luffy when the strawhats had made it to Alabasta, the ex-warlord had helped him escape Impel Down and even protected the boy he cared so much for during the Summit War. 

“He's right for once, darling. If you are ever uncomfortable or don't feel safe enough, then we'll find somewhere else,” Mihawk murmurs and ignores the indignant Hey! on the other end of the line. 

You laugh, easily imagining the pout that Shanks is no doubt wearing. You feel more relaxed at your decision now that you've spoken to both of them more about this, the easy teasing between the three of you settling something in your chest. You talk with Shanks and while longer, the redhead tells you about how easily he'd dealt with the upstart pirates and how he would most likely be home in the next week. 

After Shanks hangs up, Mihawk dials Crocodile's transponder snail. While you listen to them talk, you feel like this is a new chapter in your life, a new beginning to share with your boys and the little girl they have given you. You couldn't wait to see what happened next.

@writingmysanity @djbumblebee @goth-mami-writer @myradiaz @fluffybunnyu @bookandstar @foggyturtleknightangel @browneyedhufflepuff @anastasiyax @jaguarthecat @atricksterwithwings @black-swan-blog27 @breadedloafs @enpvrirnce @gottalovethefandom @mfreedomstuff @caniseethefourthsword @olenoname @glitterystarfishfestival

[breadedloafs]

oh i’m simultaneously scared and excited😨 do your worst smiley🫡

Give Me Your TMI~ Chapter 7

₊˚⊹ᰔ Pairing; Yang Jeongin x Fem!reader, Stray kids x Fem!reader

₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ Summary; In a world where Humans and Hybrids should be living as equals, Hybrids are still viewed as being closer to their animalistic side than their humanistic. Deep in the woods lives a band of misfit hybrids who reject these societal views and keep to themselves, choosing to live away from humans. What happens when the youngest of this rogue group meets a lost Human girl, befriending her after an incident where he must rely on her for help?

₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ Warnings; hybrid!au, female!reader, angst, mild violence, mentions of sexual harassment/assault and discrimination, she/her pronouns used for reader, this is very loosely based off the overall themes/tones of the manga and anime fruits basket~

The alarm clock on your bedside table started to go off, the beeping echoing in the otherwise silent room causing you to wince and cover your ears tightly. Why was it so loud this morning- you groaned and reached over to turn it off as Jeongin’s arms tightened around your waist. “Don’t go-“ he grumbled, face burying into your hair as he inhaled the sweetness of your scent. Slowly you turned around to face him and gave his nose a little peck. “If you want breakfast then you better let me get up.” You teased, causing the hybrid to let you go with a whine. Getting out of bed you felt a chill wrap around you causing a shiver to run through your whole body. Curiously, you padded over to the window and pulled the curtain back to peek outside.

Snow blanketed everything, all surfaces painted white and a soft gasp left your lips before you bolted for the front door. “It’s snowing!” You shouted, the thought of others still sleeping completely fallen from your mind as you dashed out the door and into the still slowly falling snow. Minho saw you run past from where he was already setting out ingredients for breakfast and his eyes widened as he saw you booking it for the front door. “Pretty wait-“ he shouted after you but it was too late.

Your socked feet were instantly soaked and began to burn from the sheer drop in temperature and your body continued to shiver as you were still in only a thin long sleeve and pajama pants but you didn’t care, spinning around with your face turned to the sky as you laughed with nothing but pure joy coursing through you.

Minho came out from the kitchen, a concerned look painting his face as he watched you. “Pretty get back in here it’s too cold to be out dressed like that!” His calls to you fell on deaf ears though, his panic spiking as you let yourself fall to the ground and begin making a snow angel as giggles continued to flow from your lips.

One by one the other hybrids woke from the noise, coming out onto the deck to see you. Chan huffed, shaking his head as he stomped his way towards you. When you noticed him coming you simply gave him a warm smile, motioning to the snow still falling around you both. “Chan look! It’s snowing!” You stood back up from the ground and looked back at the sky with your tongue out in an attempt to catch some of it in your mouth.

The wolf hybrid was unamused, effortlessly bending down and throwing you up over his shoulder. “Wha- Chan put me down!” You squealed, hitting his back lightly though there was no real force behind it as you laughed. “No can do, pretty. If you stay out here any longer then you’ll get sick again like before.” You huffed giving the hybrid a pout when he brought you inside and dropped you down by the fireplace.

Jeongin was instantly at your side, worrying over you. “Pretty you’re freezing-“ he spoke softly, shivering as if it was he himself who had just been out in the snow hardly dressed. “Oh- I am…but how did you-“ the scent of fresh balsam crowded your senses as the hybrid pulled you close in an attempt to assist the fire in warming you up. “Why did you run out there in your pajamas you crazy girl?” Minho laughed, shaking his head as he headed back for the kitchen to start on breakfast. “Well I’ve never seen snow in person before…” you mumbled, looking down at where your now wet clothes dripped onto the hardwood floors. “Go take a hot bath and warm up, I’ll take care of breakfast on my own today.”

Wordlessly Jeongin scooped you up into his arms, your own coming to rest around his shoulders as if it was the most natural movement ever. He carried you carefully into the lone bathroom in the cabin, aside from the one tucked in Chan’s room that you wouldn’t dare use unless it was necessary.

The fox sat you on the closed toilet just as he had months ago when you first came there, working to run a hot bath for the both of you.

Bathing together had become something you did often with the youngest of the hybrids, saving on time and water as there were eight people using the single room. You didn’t think much of it, having had to bathe with siblings or friends in the past for similar reasons, though this was the first time you had bathed with someone of the opposite sex it didn’t seem to bother either of you.

The ritual was familiar, calming now as you both stripped your clothes and settled in the water with you settling in between the hybrid’s legs with your back pressed to his chest. He gently washed your hair and cupped the hot water to bring it up and let it run over your arms and shoulders that weren’t able to be submerged. After he was done washing and rinsing your hair the two of you carefully switched positions so it was he who had his back facing yours as you took your turn washing his hair and being careful not to get any water in his ears.

It was so intimate being here with him like this, letting each other see the vulnerable parts of yourselves as you washed each other with soft, gentle touches. You smiled softly, something in your heart fluttering and it was as if you could feel the fox in front of you blushing as you did yourself though you couldn’t see his face. “There, all clean.” You said with a warm smile, leaning back so the hybrid could get out of the tub first and help you out after. The both of you wrapped up in fluffy warm towels you had purchased the last time you went into town with Changbin, insisting that the threadbare ones they had before were on their last legs and could be used for cleaning instead. You had told them not long after your little Christmas about the money you had got from your parents after your wedding. It was supposed to be given to your husband on your wedding night but as that had never happened you still held onto the hefty sum and even though they insisted you didn’t have to use it on them or things around the house you refused to budge and still used some of the money to purchase them some new clothes from the local thrift store, including some warmer clothes for yourself, the towels previously mentioned, and a few other miscellaneous items you felt could be helpful to you all.

Once you’re both dried and dressed you head back out to see everyone cuddling up in the living room to fight off the cold the snow storm outside had brought in. “Room for two more?” You ask with a soft smile, taking a seat in between Hyunjin and Felix on the couch while Jeongin curls up with Jisung in one of the arm chairs. Minho is sat with Changbin and Seungmin on the floor, while Chan is nowhere to be found.

You are enjoying cuddling up with the ferret and younger cat hybrid when suddenly Seungmin scoots over to sit in front of you with his back pressed against the bottom of the couch. Silently you reach down, gently running your fingers through his soft brown hair as he leans into the touch and his tail begins to thump lightly against the floor.

Everything is peaceful, a warmth spreading over you from the fire and body heat of those around you when suddenly Chan enters the room with a raised eyebrow. “Ayen, Seung, it’s time to get going.” The two youngest groan, slowly rising from their spots to pout at the wolf hybrid. “But hyung it’s snowing out- who would be out in this weather?” Jeongin complained with a little huff. The oldest gives them a look that says it’s not up for debate and they whine while reluctantly heading off to go on patrol.

Unbeknownst to any of you, someone did happen to be on the mountain that day and all they would bring was trouble to your peaceful little family.

With the snow fall having slowed down, the man hopped out of the police car once it finally entered the clearing he had explained to the detective earlier. “This is it, this is where I brought her on our honeymoon.”

Jason Park, your cowardly and cruel Husband, had never truly loved you. His parents struck up the deal with your own for the two of you to marry and he had only been on board knowing that out of every family at the convent yours had the most money which he would get a share of in marrying you.

Your father, one of the leaders of a large religious organization, had promised his oldest daughter to him along with a rather sizable dowery and all he had to do was go along with whatever they had planned.

He didn’t originally plan to kill you, figuring he could get by with sleeping around behind your back to fulfill his desires that he doubted your meek self couldn’t. That was until he met a girl in a bar the week before the wedding who he truly felt he couldn’t live without.

Not wanting to lose out on the money he was going to inherit through your betrothal, he created the plan to take you up to the most isolated mountain he could think of and end your life. He was confident he could keep up the illusion that you were still alive and happy with him until your father sent him your dowery and then he would disappear with his real lover somewhere they would never find him if anyone were to discover your corpse.

When his plan went south and he couldn’t find it in him to pull the trigger himself, he figured he would give it a little while before going to the police and giving them a sob story that you had run away and left a note saying that you were unhappy in the arrangement and wished to end your own life. He thought with how weak and simple you were that the moment he left you there you would take your own life and he would be able to collect his payout after your funeral.

With a note already typed up on your laptop that you had conveniently left at his home before your trip he didn’t have to worry about hand writing analysis disproving the legitimacy of the letter, which described that you wanted to take your life in the ‘last place you felt peace’ which he explained the the detectives must have been the place you had spent your honeymoon together months prior.

Now, on the snow covered mountain, Jason led the detectives and police officers to the clearing where he expected to find your small camp site and lifeless body. However, once he entered the clearing he saw that there was nothing there. That couldn’t be right, he was sure this was the spot. Frowning deeply, he cursed inside his head before putting on the biggest act of his life as he suddenly became distraught. “She’s not here- oh god she must be somewhere in the area!” He cried, tears falling as he began to sob hysterically.

The detectives made a quick game plan for a sweep of the area, splitting up into groups to cover more ground.

The snow had finally stopped falling, the fox’s vision becoming clearer though it was still difficult to sniff things out with the damp earth and clean smell of snow everywhere was clouding his senses. At the snap of a tree branch and the sound of voices, male voices at that, his fur stood on end. Jeongin watched from behind a small cluster of bushes as a group of men in police uniforms and one man dressed in simple winter clothes were quickly approaching in the same direction that lead towards the cabin. Oh this could not be good, he thought, bolting as fast as he could to warn the others.

As he broke through the clearing, he didn’t bother shifting out of his fox form as he burst through the front door startling you where you were leaning against the counter in the kitchen while chatting with Minho and Jisung over a warm cup of tea. “Innie-“ you felt on edge, fear seeping down to your bones as the hybrid shifted back to his human form and you were quick to pull the blanket off of the couch and wrap it around him to keep him warm as he was completely nude and the door to outside still stood wide open.

“Men- police- coming-“ he managed to get out, still struggling to catch his breath from how fast he had ran to make it back in time. Minho shut the door as you brought the fox back to your room to get him some clothes. “Hey, it’s okay…they probably won’t find us all the way back here. I’m sure they are just doing patrols like how you do? Maybe a hiker went missing or something. The hybrid shook his head, pulling on the clothes you handed to him before pulling you close to him. “They were headed this way, pretty- what if they are looking for you…” a frown found its way to your lips as you felt his fear completely encompass you. “Hey, quit that. Everything is going to be fine, yeah? No one is probably looking for me…I’m sure it’s just-“ suddenly a loud knock could be heard at the front door and you froze, hearing the words you had only ever heard on tv programs.

“Hello? This is the police.”

Slowly you made your way out from the bedroom to where the other hybrids now stood in the living room with looks of panic painting their faces. Taking a deep breath, you made your way to the door. “Pretty no-“ Felix started, eyes wide but Minho shook his head and motioned for you to continue. “It’s okay…someone has to answer the door and it will be safer for her since she is human…we just need to stay quiet.” You nodded in agreement, giving them what you hoped was a reassuring smile before pulling the door open enough to peek out. “Hi! May I help you?”

Upon opening the door you felt like your heart stopped. There, standing behind the two officers and the detective was your husband, Jason. “Y/n.” He said, his voice sounded relieved but also completely dumbfounded as he had not expected to find you alive especially not after nearly four months alone in the woods with winter being in full swing.

“Jason- what are you doing here?” You frowned, opening the door enough to slip out onto the porch with the officers. “Ma’am your husband was worried you had come here to take your own life.” One of them said, though your eyes were still locked on the man standing in the yard in front of you. “Well you can see that that wasn’t the case…” you mutter, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear as you felt your heart rate quicken and your blood run cold. “Oh thank god!” Jason suddenly exclaimed, walking up the stairs to pull you into a tight embrace but you stepped back at just the right moment. “baby- it’s me, your husband…come on it’s time to come home.” You felt sick, face paling as you shook your head at him. “I’m already home- I…I don’t want to go with you.” You felt fear taking you over as the simple act of defying him went against everything you had been raised to believe. Jason glared at you then, frown deeply set on his face and a sour smell filled the air that caused nausea to bubble up inside you. “What did you just say to me?” He almost spat, stepping forward to grab hold of your arm but someone intervened by pushing you behind them.

Balsam. Fuck- Jeongin.

The hybrid now stood between you and your husband, snarling at him protectively as he bared his canines at the man.

The officers on the deck instinctively placed their hands on the weapons at their side and you caught the movement out of the corner of your eye. “A hybrid-“ one of them said almost breathlessly, going to draw his gun but you shouted. “Stop! He’s- he’s mine. I own him.” Your words came out so fast, and even you were shocked by them but it caused the officers to relax. “He just…is very protective you see. We don’t get visitors out here so he’s on edge…innie, behave.” Your words softened as you spoke to the fox, reaching out to give his hand a gentle squeeze and you felt him relax considerably.

The detective who still stood in the yard suddenly stepped up, confusion painting his expression. “I’m sorry, Miss. but could you please explain yourself? Your husband reported you missing because you left him a note that you wanted to end your life.” You frowned, looking to Jason who had an expression of pure hatred that he didn’t even attempt to hide.

“That…was only a lie I said to escape from him.” You decided to use his lie to your advantage, standing your ground as the hybrid beside you gave you a new found confidence to stand up to the man. “I left him to live my life up here and…and rescue hybrids.” The men all gave you a confused, skeptical look and the detective spoke up once more. “Hybrids? As in multiple? How many do you have here..” fuck. You hadn’t meant to let it slip that more than just you and Jeongin were living in the cabin. “I own eight as of now, sir. I used the money given to me by my parents upon my marriage to adopt them all and we have been living here for a few months now.”

At the mention of the money that he felt should belong to him Jason seethed, practically spitting at you. “You had your dowery the whole time?! You little bi-“ the detective took a hold of his shoulder, pulling him back. “Mr. Park, I’m gonna need you to calm down. We came up here to check on the wellbeing of your wife and well….are you safe here Miss?”

You smiled, looking back at Jeongin with such a soft expression it brought a blush to his cheeks and caused him to now hide behind you. “Very safe, sir.” The detective gave you a smile, clearly seeing that the dynamic between you and your husband was not a good one and felt that you must have left for a reason seeing has you had clearly made a life here for yourself. “Well then- boys? Call off the search, we’ve wasted enough of our time here.” He said to the officers who nodded and called out on the speakers on their uniforms to the others that you had been found and it was time to head back to the city.

Jason huffed, turning to watch as they headed back for the treeline. “What- no it’s not over. She can’t just stay here!” The detective turned back with a smirk and shrugged. “She’s a grown woman, Mr. Park. If she wishes to stay here then we can’t exactly force her to leave.” You smiled triumphantly, moving to head back inside when Jason leaned in and whispered in your ear. “This isn’t over, I’ll be coming back and next time I will not be leaving without you.” A shiver ran down your spine and Jeongin growled from your side, going to lunge for him but the man was already down the steps and headed back after the others towards the cars that waited for them to leave the frigid mountain.

Once they have left and you are safe inside you collapse to the floor, your whole body trembling as tears slip down your face.

Jeongin is by your side in an instant, pulling you close to him as you sob. “Pretty what’s wrong? They are gone, you’re safe and we aren’t going to let him hurt you.”

Shaking your head, you smell the strong scent of sandalwood signaling that the wolf hybrid is near. “I-It’s not that…I’m so sorry for what I said-“

The hybrids all share a look of confusion with one another before Chan speaks up. “Sorry for what exactly, darling?” He knelt in front of you, his head tilted as he took in the sad sight of your still shaking form. “Th-That I own you. You didn’t deserve that I wasn’t thinking I was just s-so afraid they would take you away if I didn’t lie-“ fresh tears spilled as you clung to the fox who still held onto you as if you’d shatter if he let go, and perhaps you would.

The hybrids all relaxed hearing that was all you had been worried about, and it was Minho that spoke up then. “Hey, you didn’t upset any of us by what you said…it was smart. We know that’s not what you think of us but they don’t need to know that.” He gave you a wink and you sniffled, wiping at your eyes. “Y-You’re not?” Everyone shook their heads and you instantly began to relax in the youngest’s arms, resting your body against his until Chan’s smile fell, the wolf having decided it was finally time to tell you.

“Pretty, can you come with me please?”

You blinked up at the wolf a few times before looking to Jeongin who only nodded and let you go, trusting the oldest to take care of you as you took his hand cautiously.

The wolf lead you to his room, both of you nervous for different reasons as he pulled you inside and shut the door behind you. “Please, sit.” He motioned towards the bed and you listened immediately, plopping down on the soft mattress while still wiping the remnants of your tears from your eyes and cheeks.

“Do you know why I came here…why I started this family?” You shook your head, still sniffling softly. “Would you like to?” Chan’s voice was soft as he stood in front of you though his ears twitched anxiously. “You don’t have to-“ he shook his head stepping forward to take your hands into his own. “I want to tell you, you deserve to know. I was hesitant before…but now I know I can trust you, rely on you- you protected us.” His smile is so warm and genuine you almost start crying once more but he shushes you gently before sitting beside you. “You did so good, pretty. I’m proud of you…and I think it’s time I finally shared this with you- so you can maybe understand why it’s taken this long…”

Slowly he moved back and lifts his shirt off over his head, and for the first time you see his body is littered with scars of varying shapes and sizes. You gasp, standing slowly before reaching out to him hesitantly. Chan nods, letting you run your fingers across the slightly raised flesh with delicate touches. “Oh Channie….what happened?” Your voice was just above a whisper, your eyes looking up into his with sadness and he smiled at you reassuringly. “I was adopted by a man…a very evil man- he used me to win money for him in dog fights.” Your breath hitched, wincing at his words and he merely let out a bitter chuckle. “Yeah…sometimes it was normal dogs, other times hybrids…but it was pretty brutal. For the most part I stayed in my wolf form to stay warm since he made me sleep outside…all I ever knew from a young age was fighting and aggression. If I didn’t win then I didn’t eat, so I had to win.” He sighed, shaking his head. “I was…a monster- I hurt so many innocent creatures and it wasn’t either of our faults…but I still feel so much guilt-“

You frowned, your hands coming up to cup his face. “Chan, stop…you were forced to do those things….it doesn’t reflect on who you are as a person. I’m not going to lie, I was afraid of you at first but that wasn’t fair of me. You are so kind, so warm and caring….you love us all so much and you do such a good job protecting us. You say you are proud of me but…but I’m so proud of you. For all you’ve been through and all you’ve done to get here.”

He hadn’t realized but tears had started to roll down his cheeks, the hot wet feeling startling him a bit but you didn’t bat an eye as he began to cry softly. Strong arms pulled you in close and you let it happen, burying your face into his chest as you left him find comfort in the embrace, you yourself relaxing tremendously at the feeling of warmth and protection surrounding you. “Thank you for taking such good care of us…” he whispered, giving a kiss to the top of your head before slowly pulling away. “Thank you for letting me.” You responded, giving him a warm smile before pulling him close again.

After you left Chan’s room you headed for the room you shared with Jeongin, finding him sitting on the bed staring off at nothing in particular. “Um…Innie? You okay?” Seemingly snapping out of his trance, the fox nodded and scooted over for you to join him and you did, wordlessly sitting beside him so that your thighs and shoulders brushed against each other lightly. “Pretty- um…I need to tell you something and it’s gonna sound kinda silly but I’m being serious.” You frowned, nodding at him slowly though you worried slightly what it was he needed to talk about with you after the days events. “Go ahead, Jeongin. You’ve got me worried now-“ He sighed, looking down at his lap. “I know- that’s the thing….I know everything you’re feeling- mentally and physically…that’s not- I think something happened when I bit you that shouldn’t have been possible.”

Huh- what was he even talking about. Sure, you noticed that lately you seemed to be so in sync with the hybrid, seeming to know what was going through his head before he voiced it. It was like- you were connected but you didn’t know how. “What are you getting at, innie? I don’t think I understand-“

The fox groaned, turning to face you and taking your hands into his own. Even then you could feel his frustration as he struggled to come out and say what he needed to. “When I bit you- I was trying to claim you. To make you my mate. You know- like some animals do? And it shouldn’t have worked because you aren’t a hybrid….but I think somehow it did.” That caused you to freeze, eyes widening slowly with shock. Oh- that….that would explain so much. “You….you think you mated me? But wait wait…what to you mean you were actually trying to do that? I just thought you bit me cause you were mad I was spending so much time with Minho-“

Jeongin was shocked, jaw dropped as he looked at you dumbfounded. “Pretty…my pretty- I wasn’t mad at you, I was mad at Minho-hyung. Because- well from the moment I saw you I just….I knew you were mine.” You frowned, hitting his arm lightly and he pouted at you. “I don’t mean it like that I mean like- we were meant to be. Me and you…maybe the universe thinks so too since they allowed me to mate you?” Blinking rapidly his words slowly settled in your mind, causing a blush to paint your cheeks. “Jeongin what are you saying…?” The fox smiled bashfully, turning his head away as he was suddenly having trouble looking you in your eye. “I’m saying…I’m saying that I love you.” You went to respond but he wasn’t finished, adding quickly “and not like a friend! I- I’m in love with you, pretty. So so in love it hurts and I couldn’t stand seeing you and Minho-hyung flirting and I couldn’t even think before I did it and I know it doesn’t mean as much to you as it does to me since you are a human but….but this is a big deal. And I’m sorry- I didn’t even ask you first or tell you how I felt…I don’t even think I really knew what I felt until after it was already done-“

You smiled at him, shaking your head as you cupped his face in both hands and brought him in for a soft kiss. Only your second kiss in life, your first having been to that evil man you were forced to marry. His lips were soft against your own, his breath hitched as he had never felt something quite as electrifying before. “This is a big deal to me too, innie…I think- I think things have changed in me since you bit- um mated me. I have started to….to be able to smell you all and I think my hearing has gotten stronger too- you changed me.” Worry laced his expression and the hybrid looked like he was about to apologize until you kissed him again, causing him to melt against you and the worry to wash out of him like opening the flood gates to a dam. Warm, soft, and as electrifying as the first, you thought to yourself that you could kiss him forever and you thought briefly that you weren’t sure if those were your own feelings or his. When you pulled away you rested your forehead against his, blush creeping up to the tips of your ears. “It doesn’t feel right to say that I love you back yet…I don’t even know what that feels like but I know I care about you…so deeply I can feel it in my bones. Even before you claimed me as your mate. Someday- I will hopefully be able to say it back but I wanna wait until I feel confident in those feelings…if you can be patient with me?”

Jeongin nodded, pulling you close to him as you let out a little squeal and nuzzled in closer. “I would wait until the end of the world just to hear you say it even worse…and even if you didn’t then- this would be enough. Knowing and feeling how much you care about me.”

author’s note; so a little bit angsty- next chapter is going to be….dark- like graphic depictions of violence dark- please read the warning before the chapter and read at your own discretion because there will be a lot going on (this is most likely going to be my darkest chapter of a fic yet….even darker than what happened in Going Dumb with Bunny-) so please please please if you get triggered easily pay attention to the warnings as I will do my best to make it to where those of you who do need the trigger warnings can still read it but will just be missing the um- explicit details hehe…fluff will proceed after ch8 I promise~ I’ll even throw in a special uuuhh surprise at the end of ch8 as an apology for how sad and emotional it will be-

taglist; (pink users I wasn’t able to tag) @coastinglove @estella-novella @chancloud8 @skzswife @motheraiya55 @zofia515 @skybluelixie @breadedloafs @inaribu00 @silly250 @royal-shinigami @thatgirlangelb @bby-boo4u @emmxxsworld @vampkittenb82 @h0rnyp0t @alisonyus @im-sinking-in-mud @ihrtlix @mrs-hwangh @danixiulin @wolfo2027 @kiaralynn3838 @ateez-atiny380 @daceyena @bookswillfindyouaway @blackcatpandora @popcatx0 @corgilover20 @marshmelonie @sassy-snassy @straykidslover2024 @xgridx @y4yayael @dreamerwasfound

[breadedloafs]

how dare you?!? how dare you add so much fluff and leave us w a cliffhanger!!!! ageidbsns i feel betrayed, heartbroken *cue dramatic hyunjin* (/j) anyways i hope you had a wonderful holiday(christmas or smth else!)!!! can’t wait for your next upload :D

Give Me Your TMI~ Chapter 6

₊˚⊹ᰔ Pairing; Yang Jeongin x Fem!reader, Stray kids x Fem!reader

₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ Summary; In a world where Humans and Hybrids should be living as equals, Hybrids are still viewed as being closer to their animalistic side than their humanistic. Deep in the woods lives a band of misfit hybrids who reject these societal views and keep to themselves, choosing to live away from humans. What happens when the youngest of this rogue group meets a lost Human girl, befriending her after an incident where he must rely on her for help?

₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ Warnings; hybrid!au, female!reader, angst, mild violence, mentions of sexual harassment/assault and discrimination, she/her pronouns used for reader, this is very loosely based off the overall themes/tones of the manga and anime fruits basket~

The coming weeks were filled of soft moments with the hybrids. Ever since you had confronted Chan about the flowers the wolf had warmed up to you a considerable amount, though he still never initiated any form of affection with you. Instead he chose to bask in the moments you would give him a warm smile in passing or when you would come to tell him dinner was ready, your voice so sweet he thought he’d surely get a toothache. The best though, was the morning he seemed to sleep in a bit too late. It was unusual for him to miss breakfast and you had been so worried you made your way into his room and sat on the edge of his bed where the wolf hybrid was deep in his slumber. You couldn’t help but stare at how peaceful and handsome he looked in his sleep. Carefully you carded your fingers through his soft dark curls, admiring his strong features until suddenly his hand shot up and wrapped around your wrist.

You startled lightly, jumping at the contact before you were pulled down against his chest snuggly. You were only dazed for a moment before giggling as you cozied up against him. “Sleepy?” You whispered to him, fingers still combing his hair back and scratching lightly behind his tall dark ears the way Jeongin seemed to like. “Hmph-“ he grumbled, nosing against your neck as he slowly gained consciousness. “Pretty?” He sounded so soft and confused, your heart melting as you pulled back to meet his gaze. “Yeah?” He smiled, a goofy half-asleep smile and shook his head before nuzzling back into the crook of your neck, the opposite side from where Jeongin’s bite was quickly scarring over. “Nothing, just making sure I wasn’t dreaming…”

Today you were in the living room, curled up on the couch with Hyunjin laying his full body over yours as you played with his long dark hair and absentmindedly twisted it into braids before undoing and redoing them again. The small fire place was lit, heating the cabin nicely from the chill of winter outside and casting the two of you in a soft orange glow.

You could hear Minho in the kitchen rummaging around, about to get up and check on him when you heard the older cat call out for someone else. “Changbin! Come here for a second?”

The bunny hybrid came down from his room upstairs, a confused look on his face as he approached the older. “What’s up, hyung?” Minho smiled sweetly, pointing to the fridge and cabinets. “We are out of a lot of things we get from town…do you think you could take Pretty with you and pick these up for me? I made you a list.” At the sound of your name you perked up, looking over the back of the couch to see Changbin watching you with an unreadable expression. “Um, yeah okay. Pretty? Borrow Lixie or Sung’s winter coat and meet me outside?” You nodded, giving Hyunjin a kiss to his forehead as an apology for having to leave him so abruptly before jogging up the stairs to find the two hybrids in Felix and Minho’s room. “Hey can I borrow a winter coat from one of you? Minho asked me to go to town with Changbin?” You were slightly confused, having thought the town was too far of a walk and you hadn’t seen any car around the property in your time living there. You weren’t about to question them though and decided to just go with it.

Felix was up in a second, grabbing a thick coat and sweater from the closet before holding them out to you. You see, even though they had brought your clothes from your camp they had all been of the summer variety since you hadn’t been planning to be in the forest for so long when you had originally packed.

Since it had gotten so cold you had to resort to borrowing clothes from the hybrids, your current attire consisting of a pair of sweatpants from Jisung, though the hole made for his tail had been sewn shut temporarily for you, and a long sleeve from Jeongin.

You took the items from the cat and gave him a smile as you thanked him, slipping the sweater and coat on over the shirt you already wore before heading back downstairs to slip on your sneakers. The only thing you couldn’t borrow from there were shoes, unfortunately, so they would have to do. Walking out the front door you saw Changbin waiting with his fluffy black ears tucked under his beanie and his tail completely covered by his pants and coat. He gave you a soft smile before waving you over. “Ready to go?” You nodded, looking from the hybrid to out over the forest. “How long is the walk?” You asked, voice a bit wary at the thought of how long it could take them to get down the mountain and back in the cold.

Changbin gave you a funny look before shaking his head. “We won’t be walking.” You then saw that he was standing beside a bicycle with a metal basket attached to the front of it. “Oh! Oh that makes a lot more sense…” the bunny laughed at your reaction, shaking his head as he began pushing the bike towards the woods. “Come on, we’re gonna wanna get going so we can get back before dark.” You nodded, following behind him quickly to not lose track of him once you entered the forest.

The ride to town wasn’t terrible, with Changbin riding and you standing on the little pegs on the back wheel with your arms wrapped tightly around his waist. The wind bit at any exposed skin as you flew down the winding road down the mountain.

by the time you made it to town your cheeks were ruddy and your nose tinted pink. “You okay? You were holding on pretty tight back there.” The hybrid teased, causing your already flushed cheeks to deepen a shade as you ducked away from him. “Just worried I might fall off with how fast we were going…do you do this often?” You were quick to change the subject, following behind him closely as he chained the bike up and headed for a small shop that seemed to be somewhat of a convenience store.

The town was pretty small, nestled in a rural area on the side of the mountain near the base. It was clearly still very far from most of civilization, perfect for locals who lived scattered around the vast forests or hikers passing through on the way to or from a trip on one of the trails your husband had been telling you about, although that could have all been a rouse for him to create a reason for the two of you to go on a camping trip to the mostly isolated mountain in the first place.

The shop keeper greeted Changbin and yourself kindly, going back to reading her paper as the two of you perused the shelves. In a cloth tote bag he had brought with you the hybrid began putting things like canned fruits and vegetables into the bag, looking over the list Minho had given him briefly as he continued shopping.

As you stayed in the shop longer you began wandering off from him, looking over what the store had to offer when you noticed a display full of Christmas ornaments and your eyes widened. Was it really already Christmas? You couldn’t believe it had been that long since you had been on the mountain. “Bin?” You called out as the hybrid was already up by the shop keeper to purchase the items he had collected. An idea had sprung up in your mind and you absentmindedly fiddled with something deep in the pockets of your coat that you had remembered to grab before leaving. “Yes, pretty?” He answered, joining you after paying for the groceries. “Can I look around without you for a bit? I just wanna check out the different shops…it’s been so long-“ He smiled, nodding as he understood how much of an adjustment it must have been for you to go from living in a more populated area, at least he assumed, to living so isolated in the woods for months. “I’ll be a few doors down at the butchers, okay? Meet me by the bike when you’re finished.”

Once left alone you smiled triumphantly and began picking up a few things of your own, your plan slowly coming together in your mind the more stores you visited.

It was about an hour later when you finally met back up with the bunny, his smile bright when he saw you coming towards him. “There you are! Thought for a moment you’d run off or gotten kidnapped.” You laughed, hitting his arm playfully before walking alongside him back the way you came.

Since the way back was mostly uphill you both chose to walk with the groceries both in the basket and hanging off the handlebars. “So what all did you end up getting? Looks like there are a lot of bags here…” You shrugged, trying to hide your smile. “Just some stuff I needed…ya know- I didn’t have too much with me when I was left here.” He nodded slowly, feeling like you weren’t being completely truthful but decided not to press the issue further. “So how are you able to pay for things from the stores here if you guys don’t have jobs?” You asked, the curiosity had been eating at you since Minho had asked you to go to town but you hadn’t been able to find the right time to mention it. “Hyunjin. You know how sometimes when we finish our chores he is in our room painting?” You nodded slowly, confused as to where this was leading but you waited for him to continue. “Well we bring them to town and a shop owner lets us sell them there and we come by to collect the money from them every other week.” Your eyes widened comically at the revelation. You knew that the ferret hybrid enjoyed painting and sketching in his free time, and he was extremely talented, but you hadn’t realized he sold the paintings he made. “That’s so smart- I don’t know why I didn’t connect the dots earlier considering he is always working on a new project but I never see them around the house for very long.”

The rest of the walk was spent in relative silence, the freezing wind and uphill trek making it a bit difficult to catch your breaths as it was.

By the time you arrived back at the cabin the sun was already setting and the two of you wasted no time putting the bike back in the shed next to the chicken coop and carrying your purchases inside. You were quick to place the things you had bought in yours and Jeongin’s room, joining Minho in the kitchen afterwards to wash up and help with dinner like usual.

“What are you up to, pretty? Changbin says you’ve been being very secretive since you were in town…not plotting to leave us, are you?” Though his tone was teasing you could tell some worry laid behind it. “Never. Just needed some…uh- feminine things.” The cat made a face, his curiosity quickly killed as he finished putting away the things Changbin had purchased for him. “Got it, no more questions from me.” You couldn’t help but laugh, shaking your head as you began working on the nights meal.

Late that night after everyone had already gone to bed you snuck out into the living room with the bags of stuff you had purchased earlier in town and got to work, trying your best to be as quiet as possible as to not wake the hybrids either their sensitive hearing abilities.

You were up all throughout the night making sure everything was perfect, having passed out on the couch once you were done as you were too tired to make it back to bed.

That’s where they found you the next morning, curled up with one of the throw blankets and clutching a couch cushion to your chest. “Pretty? What are you doing sleeping out here?” Jeongin was rubbing the sleep from his eyes, focusing on your sleeping form and not noticing the decoration now covering the room.

At the sound of his voice you woke, rising slowly to meet his gaze but it was no longer fixed on you.

There was tinsel wrapped around the bannister and handrailsof the staircase, as well as lining the mantle over the fire place with a set of warm toned string lights. You couldn’t figure out how to sneak a Christmas tree into the cabin, or where you would be able to find one unless you went out into the forest and chopped one down yourself, so instead you had set the presets you had wrapped along the hearth of the fireplace. There were four on each end, one for each of the hybrids, and more tinsel was laid out around them making them look like they were resting in little sparkly nests.

The whole house smelled of the sugar cookies you had stayed up baking as you decorated, the finished product placed on a tray for you all to decorate later with icing and sprinkles you had also gotten while in town.

Jeongin stared in wonder as he did a little spin around the room to take it all in, the other hybrids slowly filing into the living room as well as each of them woke up to start the day.

“Pretty what is all this..?” Minho questioned, a soft smile playing on his lips as he approached you. “Well- when we were in town I saw the decorations and realized it was almost Christmas! So…I wanted to do something nice for you all as a thank you for taking me in-“

Everyone was looking around with wide, curious eyes as the entered the room…all except for Changbin who looked physically tense at the sight. “Um- I know it isn’t much but i promise I’ll clean it all up afterwards!”

They all stood around, clearly unsure of what to do and you looked at them a bit confused until Minho spoke up. “You did amazing, pretty.” The older cat said as he made his way over to where you still sat on the couch and have a soft kiss to your forehead. “We’ve just never had a Christmas before.” Oh, you hadn’t realized that they may have never had the chance to celebrate holidays before. Now their hesitation and curiosity made more sense to you.

Moving over on the couch you patted the spot beside you before motioning to the rest of the living room. “Okay um- come and take a seat and then I can give you guys your presents?” That seemed to snap them all out of the trance they seemed to be placed in, making their way over to find a seat either on the couch, an arm chair, or the floor. “We get presents…?” Jisung said softly, brown eyes as wide and soft as ever as he looked towards you hopefully. “Of course you do! You were all on the nice list this year.” You teased, a mischievous grin on your face as you got up and began passing out the gifts you had bought for them one by one. “Don’t open them until I say to, okay?” You instructed them as you handed Jisung his gift, seeing how excited the chipmunk was to be receiving a present.

When you got to Seungmin the hybrid in front of you looked confused, eyeing the small box you had placed in his hands curiously as you moved on to the next person. Changbin still looked frigid where he sat on the floor next to the beagle, causing you to hesitate as you held out a small bagged gift to him. “Um…Binnie? Is everything okay?” Your voice was soft and the bunny looked up at you slowly before forcing a smile once he saw the worry creased in your brow. “Yeah, I’m fine just- this isn’t technically my first Christmas…” you frowned slightly at his words, looking to Minho who simply shook his head and nodded back to the hybrid in front of you. “Oh- well um…you just look a little tense? I’m sorry if I upset you I know some people don’t like how overwhelming this kinda stuff can be I should have-“ Taking pity on you Changbin cut off your ramblings, shaking his head as he placed his hands over yours where they still held on tight to his gift. “Thank you, pretty. This is all so nice….I just don’t have very fond memories associated with the holiday is all. I’ll be okay.” Nodding slowly, you allowed him to take the bag from your hands before moving to sit back down in your spot on the couch next to Jeongin.

You eyed the bunny carefully, feeling there was still more to be said before you turned to look at the rest of the hybrids. Jisung in particular looked like if he didn’t get to open his present soon he’d vibrate out of the chair he was sitting on so you giggled a bit before speaking up. “Okay, you can open them-“ Before the words were even fully out the hybrids all began tearing into the wrapping paper excitedly, even Chan seemed to be full of childlike joy as he opened his own gift.

It wasn’t much, just things you were able to find in the small gift shops that were in town. Minho got a new cook book with recipes you looked over to make sure they used ingredients you had ready access to and would be easy for him to recreate.

Jisung got a romance novel as the hybrid seemed to always want you to tell him stories with similar plot lines, the hybrid didn’t know how to read but you could read it to him and teach him how to read it himself over time.

Felix got little soaps carved into the shape of a cat and little paws that smelled like vanilla and peppermint since he had been complaining about the scent less soaps they had currently being too boring.

Hyunjin got some new pencils and a sketchbook as you were sure his old one was on its last few pages and he was always misplacing his other pencils.

Chan got a bracelet woven with dark leather cords and you couldn’t help but smile as you watched him stare at it with so much joy as he asked Felix to help him put it on.

Jeongin got a stone carving of a fox about the size of his hand, something he could use to decorate his room as he didn’t seem to have many personal effects and the way his face lit up and he nuzzled against your neck with soft whispers of thanks made your heart flutter and something in you preen with satisfaction that you did good in picking his gift…a strange new feeling washing over you as if you could feel the exact joy and excitement as the fox.

Changbin got a pair of thick wool mittens where the tops could be folded back and held in place by a button to turn them into fingerless gloves, something to come in handy on trips to town or when our doing the laundry as you had noticed he didn’t have any when you went out with him the day before.

Lastly, Seungmin, who stared dumbfounded at the baseball he held. You had noticed one day when you were helping Changbin put away the laundry that he had a mitt sitting on his dresser but you didn’t remember seeing a ball anywhere, thinking that maybe he had lost it or never had one to begin with your eyes lit up when you saw it in the little shop. The beagle blinked once, twice, before he suddenly felt wet tears slipping down his cheeks. Quickly, before anyone could notice, he wiped them away and got up silently to go to his room.

You watched with a twinge of sadness as he left, feeling like you may have made a mistake with the gift you had gotten him but oh how wrong you were.

A chorus of thank yous rang out, Jisung even launching himself into your lap and begging you to read to him from his new book which you happily promised to do later after the chores for the morning were finished.

“I also made some cookies for us to decorate if you’d like..? It’s not the healthiest breakfast but it’s something we used to always do as kids growing up was decorate cookies in the morning before our lessons…” Felix’s eyes lit up as he jumped from his seat, almost knocking Chan over with the force where the wolf had been leaning against him to show off his new bracelet. “Yes! I mean- yeah sure that sounds nice..” You giggled at him, shaking your head as you carefully moved Jisung out of your lap and gave both him and Jeongin a kiss on the temple before getting up and following the younger cat into the kitchen. “Can you bring the cookies and decoration supplies to the table? I’m gonna start on making us some hot cocoa to go with them.” The hybrid beamed, nodding so fast his fluffy ears seemed to bounce as he took the trays of cookies to the dining table along with all the various sprinkles and icings you had bought.

As you busied yourself with stirring the chocolately mixture in the pot on the stove, you felt someone come up behind you and give a gentle tug on the sleeve of the sweater you still wore from Felix. “Hm?” You questioned softly, not turning to see who it was though you smelt the strong smell of cedar washing over you. How odd- “Um…P-Pretty?” Oh- that was…Seungmin’s voice. You turned to face him slowly, afraid any sudden movements would scare him off. “Yes, Seung?” The hybrid had his eyes downcast, hands nervously playing with the hem of his sweatshirt as he visibly took a deep breath. “Why did you get me a present when I’m always running away from you…?” His voice sounded so small, so….afraid. Your heart ached to reach out and pull him close but you didn’t want to overwhelm him when he was finally opening up to you. “Like I said…you were all on the nice list. The nice list means you get presents.” You shrugged it off like it was so simple, but the hybrid let out a little huff. “That’s just what they tell small children to get them to behave all year…I saw it in movies.” He was pouting, and god was it so adorable you had to fight the urge to poke his cheeks. “So why did you really get me a present?” You frowned, still stirring the mixture of chocolate and milk as you turned your focus back to your task and away from the hybrid. “Because you deserve nice things, Seungmin. You all do. I know you’ve had to go through so many hardships in your lives and it wasn’t fair to any of you…I don’t know exactly what happened to all of you but I know that it wasn’t right and that you deserved and still deserve so much better than that.” For a moment the room was silent, save for the sounds echoing from the dining room where the hybrids seemed to be creating a competition out of the cookie decorating task you had given them.

Suddenly you felt arms wrapping around you and hot breath fanning over your neck where the beagle nuzzled his face against you seemingly to hide himself or maybe mold into you until you became a single being, you weren’t sure but the embrace was tight and you could feel his body trembling against yours lightly. “Thank you….for everything you are doing for us, for me-“ you felt his tears suddenly wetting the back of your neck and causing the hair there to become damp. “Seung-“ you went to turn around, to embrace him back but his hold on you tightened. “Don’t move! Please- just…just stay like this? Please….” You nodded, the desperation in his voice breaking something inside you and made you want to comfort him more but you listened to him, continuing to stir the hot chocolate in the pot as he silently sobbed against you before pulling away a few moments later. You stayed still a bit longer, getting the feeling he didn’t want to be seen in that state and when you finally did look back he was already gone.

You portioned out the hot chocolate for everyone, bringing it into the dining room on a tray and setting it down before noticing Changbin was still sitting on the living room floor with his mittens in his hands, staring at them with such a blank expression worry began building up inside you once more. You made your way over to him and took a seat beside him quietly, your shoulder brushing his gently as you settled. “Are you sure everything is okay, Bin?” You knew you didn’t have as deep of a connection with the bunny hybrid, his interactions with you having always been neutral even if they were in the more positive side. He always seemed to keep you at arms length, not outright avoiding you like Seungmin or being somewhat hostile like Chan, but not quite the warmth and openness you seemed to receive from the others.

He sighed, blinking slowly before he responded. “I was a Christmas gift.” Oh- you thought for a moment, unsure how to respond to that but before you had a chance to he continued. “I was bought for a little girl, probably about five or six years old? I wasn’t much older than her at the time either…She begged her parents for a bunny but they thought a hybrid would be easier to take care of than a normal pet…” A frown settled on your face but you stayed silent, nodding for him to continue. “At first everything was fine, she would dress me up in her dresses and we would have tea parties and play games but then sometime in the spring she got bored of me…She got new toys for her birthday and seemed to forget all about me. I don’t know why her parents kept me for so long, but I lived there for ten whole years…” at that your eyes widened, your voice softly escaping you. “Ten years?” Nodding, Changbin took a shaky breath and you watched as a few tears slid down his cheeks before landing on where his hands still clutched onto the mittens. “After the first two they moved me out of her room and down the hall…I think they forgot about me too. If it wasn’t for their maids remembering to feed me every once in a while I probably would have starved. I don’t think they even noticed when I climbed out the window and finally escaped but….I’m sorry-“

Confusion painted your expression instantly, why was he apologizing to you? “Changbin why-“ cutting you off, the bunny turned and pulled you close to him as he cried. “You did something so nice for all of us and all I can think about is how if there was never a Christmas then I never would have been placed in that awful home….and all this time I’ve been keeping this- this wall up between us because I’ve been so afraid that eventually you’ll forget about me too and I’ll have to lose you like I lost her-“ immediately you pulled him closer, his salty tears continuing to dampen the hairs at your neck as Seungmin’s had earlier but you didn’t mind. You just held him close as you ran your fingers gently through his soft curly black hair. “Shhh it’s okay, Binnie…I understand. I don’t think I could ever blame you, any of you, for being hesitant or distant with me. It means so much to me that despite all of your negative experiences with humans in the past you’ve given me the chance to stay here…and I’m going to do my dammdest to undo any of the harm those awful people before me caused. You know why?” He sniffled, pulling back just enough to wipe his tears before blinking up at you. “W-Why?” You smiled softly, poking his cheek before leaning in to kiss his forehead gently. “Because you deserve kindness, warmth, love…all of you. Even if it takes time, years even- I’ll continue to try and prove it to you all and make you feel it.”

Softly, you heard a different voice speak up from beside you as Hyunjin came to sit on your other side. “I was a present too…for a little boy on his thirteenth birthday. He didn’t really want a pet or a hybrid but his parents thought he needed to learn some responsibility….it was so lonely in that house- I tried so hard to get him to like me or spend time with me but all he wanted to do was go play out with his friends or play video games. I think I stayed for a few years but I didn’t really keep track of the time…it wasn’t until he got himself a girlfriend that he kicked me out and told me that if I came back he’d send me away to a facility where they use hybrids for test subjects-“ the ferret shivered at the memory, cuddling up to your side as he closed his eyes tight as if to will it away. “You’re so much nicer than he was…and you smell sweeter too- I never thought I’d meet a human who didn’t mind how clingy I can get. Even the others sometimes get annoyed with me for it-“

You gasped, thumping his head lightly before pulling him closer with one arm while the other stayed wrapped around Changbin’s still sniffling form. “Don’t you dare say that, Hyunjin. They aren’t really annoyed with you, only teasing…we all love how soft and sweet your cuddles are. I mean I know I do- and if they were really annoyed they would be a lot more forceful when they tell you to stop. Trust me, I notice things and they always have a goofy smile after telling you to get off them as if they don’t really mean it.”

Hyunjin looked back at where everyone was still decorating cookies, laughing and enjoying each others company, then back to you with soft tearful eyes. “You really think so?” You smiled warmly, leaning in to give a peck to his cheek. “If you want I can ask them to dial it down on the teasing towards you.” He shook his head, laying with his head resting against your shoulder. “No, it’s okay. I can always come to you for snuggles when they are being too mean.” He said with a smile, a slight teasing tone of his own in his voice that made you laugh as you reached up to ruffle his hair gently.

You stayed like that snuggled up with the two hybrids as you both watched the rest of your little family have a playful competition over who had decorated the best cookies. It wasn’t until you heard genuine shouting and arguing that you jumped up to intervene, having to pull Jeongin away from a very smug looking Minho while Chan scolded him for eating the fox’s cookie before he got the chance to show you and you began petting the youngest’s hair and reassuring him that he could make another one and you would watch to make sure you got to see the finished product.

Far away from the mountain, with the busy city life buzzing outside, a young man sat in a police station at one of the lead detectives desks as he fidgeted nervously with his wedding band.

“Tell me again sir, from the top, when was the last time you saw your wife?”

author’s note; dun dun DUUUUNNN~~~ hehe Merry (belated) Christmas!! This was an emotional rollercoaster I feel but I hope you all enjoy~ (mild spoiler warning but you may wanna prepare for like- some of the most angst I’ve ever written to come in the next two to three chapters- SORRY)

taglist; (pink users I wasn’t able to tag) @coastinglove @estella-novella @chancloud8 @skzswife @motheraiya55 @zofia515 @skybluelixie @breadedloafs @inaribu00 @silly250 @royal-shinigami @thatgirlangelb @bby-boo4u @emmxxsworld @vampkittenb82 @h0rnyp0t @alisonyus @im-sinking-in-mud @ihrtlix @mrs-hwangh @danixiulin @wolfo2027 @kiaralynn3838 @ateez-atiny380 @daceyena @bookswillfindyouaway @blackcatpandora @popcatx0 @corgilover20 @marshmelonie @sassy-snassy @straykidslover2024 @xgridx

[breadedloafs]

awwww finally chan got his recognition, so cute! but oof innie is truly a jealous little fox💀 these two are so precious!!!!!🥰🥰

Give Me Your TMI~ Chapter 5

˚⊹ᰔ Pairing; Yang Jeongin x Fem!reader, Stray kids x Fem!reader

₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ Summary; In a world where Humans and Hybrids should be living as equals, Hybrids are still viewed as being closer to their animalistic side than their humanistic. Deep in the woods lives a band of misfit hybrids who reject these societal views and keep to themselves, choosing to live away from humans. What happens when the youngest of this rogue group meets a lost Human girl, befriending her after an incident where he must rely on her for help?

₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ Warnings; hybrid!au, female!reader, angst, mild violence, mentions of sexual harassment/assault and discrimination, she/her pronouns used for reader, this is very loosely based off the overall themes/tones of the manga and anime fruits basket~

In the coming days you would find flowers for you laying on your side of the bed waiting for you every afternoon.

Sometimes there were the same as the first, others they would be different, but the amount of flowers seemed to grow day by day until that morning you were woken up to the sight of a little bouquet tied with twine set on the bedside table. Jeongin was still sound asleep as you usually woke before him to help Minho with breakfast. Confusion laced itself through your half awake state and you reached over to shake the fox awake gently. “Innie- Jeongin wake up.” The hybrid startled, bolting up as if he were expecting there to be an emergency, looking over you frantically. “Wha- is everything okay, pretty?” He saw that you were in fact okay and calmed down, though confusion replaced his panic quickly. “Sorry- I didn’t mean to scare you I just…wanted to thank you for the flowers but really you didn’t have to go out so early to get them just so I’d wake up to see them.”

Now the hybrid was even more confused. He had noticed the vase on the dresser seemed to acquire new flowers each day but he had always assumed it had been you trying to brighten up the room and not that you were under the impression he had been the one bringing them to you. “Flowers? I didn’t get you flowers- I’ve been here since we went to bed last night…”

You frowned, even more confused than the hybrid. “But if you aren’t leaving them then who is…” the fox felt his jaw clench, an ugly little thing called jealousy once again possessing him as he cursed himself for not thinking of bringing you flowers first. Now if he were do so it would only be a mere imitation of the original and wouldn’t be as special, and he wanted to be special. “I’m sorry I woke you, innie…try and get some more rest before breakfast, okay?” He nodded, a pout still on his lips until you leaned down to place a gentle kiss to his temple and he melted instantly. Fighting the urge to pull you back against him and not allow you to leave he let himself fall back into a slumbering state as you got up and padded your way to the kitchen to meet the cat hybrid, bouquet carefully placed inside the vase with the rest of the flowers you had received over the course of the week.

The rest of the day the question lingered in your mind, even now as you stood side by side with Minho in the kitchen baking bread to go with the roast he had prepared for dinner.

The cat could tell something was weighing on you from the way your eyes seemed unfocused as you kneaded the dough in front of you. “What’s got you all lost in thought, pretty?” His words startled you, causing you to pause and look up at him. “How did you-“ Minho laughed, shaking his head. “If I didn’t snap you out of it you’d over knead that loaf and it would be a dense as a rock.�� He teased, causing you to scoff playfully. “Yeah? Well maybe I like eating rocks.” You joked as you reached up to swipe a line of flour along his cheek. The cat smirked, shaking his head as he quickly landed a sharp slap upon your left asscheek. You gasped loudly before erupting into a fit of laughter.

Playing around like this had become commonplace for the two of you during prep for meal times. It made the whole process move a little slower but it always brightened your moods so much to the point that no one seemed to complain if dinner was late by a few minutes or if they had to sit around the kitchen island and watch the two of you goofing around while adding the finishing touches to their breakfasts. Food made with love and happiness tasted better anyways, they say.

The cat gave you a look, attempting to be stern but it didn’t fool you as he had been laughing along with you just seconds earlier. “Come on, out with it. What’s on your mind?” You sighed, calming down as you carefully broke the dough in front of you into three equal pieces and set two aside and you worked to roll the third into a long rope like shape. “I’ve been getting flowers every day for a week now…and I just assumed it was Innie leaving them for me. But this morning when I woke up there was a whole bouquet and so whoever it was would have had to get up either late last night or extremely early this morning to pick them for me…” Minho motioned for you to continue, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips but he wanted you to finish before saying his piece. “I woke Jeongin up to thank him for going through all the trouble but he swears it wasn’t him…he looked as confused as I was if not more- I just don’t know who else would be leaving them for me…”

The cat grinned, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he watched you take the now three rope like forms of dough and lay them side by side before braiding them together carefully. “I know who it is.” Your actions paused, curiosity piqued and you resumed your braiding before asking him. “Well- who is it?” “It’s Chan-hyung.”

Your head turned to look the older in the eyes so fast that your neck felt sore, the expression on your face full of shock and disbelief causing the cat hybrid to chuckle. “So shocking? He’s been watching you closely since you arrived here. He wasn’t sure how to get your attention, he’s still a bit hesitant to approach you.” You swallowed hard, still unable to fully believe Minho’s words. “But- Chan doesn’t like me…I’m sure he’s only letting me stay so that Jeongin doesn’t run away-“ your words caused the cat to double over with his laughter, shaking his head. “Oh our clueless, pretty little human- if you don’t believe me why don’t you ask him yourself?”

Your eyes widened as you watched him regain his composure and grab the bread pan for both of your loaves. “That’s beautiful, by the way. You’ll have to show me how to do that.”

You beamed at the praise, temporarily forgetting the conversation about your flowers having come from the wolf hybrid you were sure couldn’t care less as to whether you were dead or alive. As you watched the cat hybrid place the bread into the oven you heard a low growl coming from behind you. “What the fuck, Jeongin-“ Minho had turned around after shutting the oven door and his expression was one of concern and shock causing you to turn around and see your beloved fox hybrid glaring daggers at the older hybrid with his canines bared to him. “Mine.” He growled out, voice much deeper than you had ever heard from the youngest member of the house and your blood ran cold at the terrifying sight of him. “I-Innie?” Your voice was timid and he nodded towards Minho. “He put his hands on my pretty.” Your expression softened slightly and looked at Minho with confusion before remembering your interaction from earlier. There must have been a mark from the flower he had on his hands when he had slapped you playfully. “Oh Innie, we were just playing arou-“ before you could finish your sentence the younger had pounced on you, knocking you off your balance and you both came crashing to the floor with a loud thud.

Everything moved so quickly you barely had time to process what was happening you felt the sharp sting of the fox’s canines digging into the spot between your neck and shoulder. You let out a little yelp in pain, eyes screwed shut as your hands balled into fists gripping onto Jeongin’s sweater. “Yang Jeongin get off of her!” Minho shouted to the younger hybrid but when he took a step forward it only served to make him bite down a tad bit harder and you let out a little whimper. “Fuck-“ you heard someone from behind you but you didn’t recognize the voice. Suddenly Jeongin’s teeth loosened their grip and he was pulled back from you and held in Seungmin’s strong embrace as he thrashed violently. Minho was there in a second, pressing a dish towel against the wound on your neck. “Get yourself in check, kit. Pretty isn’t built like a hybrid and you have to be gentle with her.” The cat scolded as Seungmin pulled the fox hybrid back towards his room.

You felt dazed, letting Minho scoop you up and carry you over to the couch where he proceeded to patch you up. “I’m sorry about him, pretty…he- honestly I don’t know what’s gotten into him.” You shook your head, smiling weakly as he pulled back from applying a bandage over the bite mark. “I’m okay, it startled me more than anything I think…I should go talk to him-“ Slowly you stood and Minho’s hand shot out to wrap around your wrist, a look full of concern painting his beautiful face. “I’ll be okay, Min. He won’t hurt me.” The cat scoffed, motioning from the kitchen floor that was still stained with drops of your blood to your bandaged neck. You shook your head, gently removing his hand and making your way to your shared room with the youngest hybrid.

You gave a little knock before entering, seeing Jeongin curled up on the bed as Seungmin stood above him very clearly scolding him as Minho had earlier. Upon your entrance the beagle hybrid silenced himself and gave you a look full of mixed emotions you couldn’t exactly read before brushing past you with a soft. “Be careful.” Whispered your way and then you were left alone with the youngest.

“Innie…” immediately he cut you off, sitting up and allowing you to see the wet tear tracks that stained his red cheeks. “Oh god you’re okay- pretty I’m s-so sorry-“ seeing his distressed state you were quickly at his side, petting his hair as you attempted to soothe him. “Yes, I’m okay. But Jeongin-“ he pouted up at you, clearly expecting another tongue lashing. Instead you kept your words soft but your tone still held a sternness to it that let him know you were being serious. “You do not own me…no one does. I care for you dearly but you absolutely cannot act out like this every time I interact with someone else in a way you don’t like.” His pout deepened into a frown and he nodded so fast you feared he may injure his neck. “I won’t- I promise…I’m so sorry-“ You gave him a soft smile, pushing the hair that fell over his forehead back to give him a gentle kiss to the flushed skin there. “You are forgiven, but this will not happen again or I will go and room with someone else.” His eyes widened and a whimper escaped him before his arms wrapped around your waist as he clung to you desperately. “Not again, I’ll be good I promise.” His words caused you to frown and you shook your head as you continued to comb your fingers through his hair and give light scratches to his ears. “You’re always good, my Mr. fox…” he relaxed at your words, body going lax against you and after a while you heard soft snores coming from him. Poor thing, you thought to yourself, he got himself so worked up he exhausted himself. You carefully tucked him into bed and before leaving the room you glanced over at the vase full of flowers and sighed. You may regret this later, but you needed to hear it from the source yourself.

You found yourself standing in front of the door at the back of the cabin, hand poised in front of the wood but you were frozen stiff with hesitance. Your nerves were standing on end and you took several deep breaths before giving a few soft knocks to the door. Briefly you contemplated running away but before you could decide the door opened to reveal a very shocked looking wolf hybrid. “Oh- it’s you.” He said, voice void of emotion as ever and it caused you to wince slightly. “Um- hi, Chan…I just- well, Minho said that you’ve uhh…” you swallowed the lump in your throat, hoping it would allow your words to come out smoother. “Minho told me it’s been you leaving me flowers every day….is that true?”

Chan blinked a bit, heat rising to his cheeks and for the first time you noticed how on edge he himself seemed. Shit- Jeongin had told you he was extremely distrusting of humans. What if this whole time he wasn’t being cold but was really scared like how Seungmin was. You cursed yourself for assuming just because he was a wolf that he was to be feared instead of being the fearful one. “Yeah….uh- it was me..” he rubbed at the back of his neck nervously, eyes unable to meet yours and you couldn’t help but stare a bit in disbelief. “If it makes you uncomfortable I can stop-“

Chan couldn’t finish his words, the wind having been knocked out of him as your arms wrapped tightly around his waist and your face buried in his chest. “Thank you, really- no one has ever given me flowers before.” This was it, what he had been craving for weeks since you had joined their family. Your smaller frame pressed against his and your scent enveloping him. He knew you as a human couldn’t smell what they did, but the sweetness of your natural scent caused him to feel lightheaded as a hand slowly came to rest on the small of your back and hold you closer to him. “You deserve flowers.” Was all he said, blushing furiously as he stared down at you in disbelief. You giggled, pulling back to look up at him with a bright smile that nearly knocked him off his feet. Never did he think you would look at him so brightly, so unafraid.

Just then he noticed the bandage on your neck and his face fell. “What happened to your neck..?” Your eyes widened, as if you had already forgotten what had happened in the kitchen earlier. “Oh- it’s okay. Jeongin just-“ before you could finish the wolf let out a growl and tried to push past you to where the fox was sleeping in your shared room. “Wait Chan- it’s okay I already talked to him about it everything is fine he’s resting now-“ you wrapped both hands around his bicep and attempted to pull him back towards you and thankfully your pleading seemed to work as the normally so ridged composure he held around you melted away. Chan turned to face you, moving your hair aside to get a closer look at the bandage. “You sure you’re okay..?” His voice was so soft, laced with concern and you couldn’t help but smile as you nodded to him. “I’m positive. Please, let’s just drop it?” With a sigh, Chan nodded and instead pulled you back into his embrace. “I’m supposed to keep all of you safe…I’m sorry he hurt you-“

With a light giggle, the one that always seemed to brighten Jeongin’s day, you rested your cheek against his chest and let your eyes fall closed as you breathed in the earthy smell the hybrid held from his patrols. “Really, I’m okay. But thank you for worrying about me…and taking care of me even when I didn’t notice.” The wolf hybrid’s chest swelled with pride and he allowed himself to enjoy your embrace as he gently rubbed your back in slow circles. After a moment you pulled away, the wolf having to fight off a whine at the loss of contact. “I’m gonna go check on dinner…see if Minho needs my help-“

Nodding, Chan watched as you retreated to the kitchen with a soft smile on his blushing face, looking away bashfully only as you turned to give him one last smile before disappearing to help the second oldest finish cooking. Finally, some softness reserved only for himself.

author’s note; I know this is a much shorter chapter than I have been putting out but I wanted to get these plot points out of the way for a special Christmas chapter~~ I wanted to give it its own special chapter and not lump it together with these events so just a smaller update (hopefully you all don’t mind since ch4 was posted last night anyways and you only have to wait a couple of days for ch6) thank you for your continued love and support~

taglist; (pink users I wasn’t able to tag) @coastinglove @estella-novella @chancloud8 @skzswife @motheraiya55 @zofia515 @skybluelixie @breadedloafs @inaribu00 @silly250 @royal-shinigami @thatgirlangelb @bby-boo4u @emmxxsworld @vampkittenb82 @h0rnyp0t @alisonyus @im-sinking-in-mud @ihrtlix @mrs-hwangh @danixiulin @wolfo2027 @kiaralynn3838 @ateez-atiny380 @daceyena @bookswillfindyouaway @blackcatpandora @popcatx0 @corgilover20 @marshmelonie @sassy-snassy @straykidslover2024

[breadedloafs]

oh poor channie🤦 you’d think he could hear his own voice with how stoic/mean he sounds, but ig i understand his upbringing isn’t helping. poor baby🥺

i mean who wouldn’t/couldn’t appreciate a face like this

Give Me Your TMI~ Chapter 4

˚⊹ᰔ Pairing; Yang Jeongin x Fem!reader, Stray kids x Fem!reader

₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ Summary; In a world where Humans and Hybrids should be living as equals, Hybrids are still viewed as being closer to their animalistic side than their humanistic. Deep in the woods lives a band of misfit hybrids who reject these societal views and keep to themselves, choosing to live away from humans. What happens when the youngest of this rogue group meets a lost Human girl, befriending her after an incident where he must rely on her for help?

₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ Warnings; hybrid!au, female!reader, angst, mild violence, mentions of sexual harassment/assault and discrimination, she/her pronouns used for reader, this is very loosely based off the overall themes/tones of the manga and anime fruits basket~

How did you get yourself into this situation, you think to yourself.

You are sat in between Jeongin and Minho at the large wooden dinner table. Each side has four chairs with a ninth chair seated at the head of the table where a very stoic Wolf Hybrid sits in complete silence. Across from you is Felix, giving you small encouraging smiles in between bites of his food as you merely stir yours around with your spoon anxiously. The fox hybrid to your left seems to notice your unease and reaches down to slip his hand onto your thigh with a reassuring squeeze, knocking you out of the daze you seem to be caught in. “Pretty, you need to eat…” He whispers into your ear and you nod, taking a few slow bites but with the tense feeling in the air it feels like swallowing rocks instead of the pieces of vegetables and tender meat you and Minho had prepared.

You feel an pair of eyes practically glued to you from beside Felix and with a hard swallow you look up to meet Seungmin’s gaze, the hybrid quickly looking down at his bowl but he seems to not have much of an appetite either.

Everyone seems to finish their meals and part one by one until it is just you and Seungmin, Minho having scolded the both of you that until at least half of your bowls were empty you were not to leave the table. You heard the hybrid let out a small whimper and winced a bit, trying to make yourself at least eat half like Minho had said but your mind was moving too fast for you to focus on food at that moment. Carefully, you looked back over at Seungmin and waved softly, taking a shaky breath. “Um…Seungmin?” God, this was probably a bad idea. You just felt awful for making him so uncomfortable. While you had at least taken a few decent bites of food he hadn’t touched a single thing.

When his name left your mouth he flinched, causing your heart to ache as you frowned at him. “I just wanted to say I’m sorry…um- yeah..I’m sorry.” You couldn’t think of anything else to say, mentally slapping yourself for sounding so silly but when you hear the sound of his spoon clinking against his bowl as he slowly begins to eat, you quickly relax. The two of you eat in silence for the rest of your meal, both of you managing to clear your bowls much to the older cat hybrids delight.

As Minho passed by, collecting the dirty dishes he gave you a light pat on the head and a soft. “Good job.” Which caused you to beam proudly and get up from your seat. When you glanced to where the beagle hybrid had been sitting you noticed he was already gone, frowning a bit to yourself but you should have known it would talk a bit longer, if at all, for him to become comfortable being around you from what Jeongin had explained.

You joined the two cat hybrids in the kitchen, leaning against the counter by the sink as you watched Minho wash and Felix dry and put away the dishes. “Is there anything I can do to help?” You asked, watching the way they worked to fluidly and in sync. They gave each other a look, smiling softly before Felix turned to you. “We’ve got it, just rest for tonight and then you can help with breakfast in the morning.” You nod slowly, staying at the counter to observe them a bit longer. “Um…I hope you don’t mind me asking- but how are you guys so in tune with each other?” They give each other another look, almost seeming to communicate telepathically before Minho smiles at you. “Well, like how normal cats can form bonds to one another, Felix and I are bonded.” The younger hybrid nodded in agreement and you raised your eyebrow at them curiously. “Oh so you’re like…together?” Before they could answer you couldn’t help but tease the older of the two lightly, bringing back your conversation from earlier. “Is Felix the husband?” Minho laughed while he dried off his hands, having just finished washing the last dish, whereas Felix looked on with wide eyes and a horrified expression.

The older came up to you, hands resting on the counter you were leaning against on either side of you to cage you in. The cat smirked, leaning in so his face was inches from your own. “What makes you so curious about if I have a husband? Are you wanting to fill that position?” A blush fanned across your cheeks, looking up wide eyed as Felix burst into laughter beside you. You mumbled, not sure if he would even be able to hear you. “‘m not a husband, I’m a wife-“ of course, he still heard, all hybrids having a very keen sense of hearing. A light purr rumbled in the older cat’s chest as he leaned in even closer to whisper in your ear. “I’m sure you’re a very good wife, indeed…might just have to take you for myself.”

A low growl could be heard from beside you, causing you to turn your head and face the fox hybrid with his ears flat to his head and tail puffed up like he had been electrocuted. “Hyung, back. off.” Jeongin’s voice was tight, and for the first time you could see the sharp point of his canines as he snarled at the older hybrid.

Minho smirked at the youngest, tilting his head to the side as he pulled back from you. “Awe, our innie is feeling a bit jealous? Don’t worry, I was only teasing.” You blinked a few times, looking from Minho to Jeongin. “Jealous?” The younger hybrid blushed as he turned his face away shyly, coughing into his hand. Your expression softened and you pushed away from the counter to ruffle his soft hair and give a light scratch behind his ears. “Oh Jeongin, there’s no need to be jealous. You’ll always be my best friend here.” Minho and Felix looked on with wide eyes, not believing how oblivious you could be and the fox before you let out a little whine before pulling you to him protectively while glaring at his hyungs over the top of your head.

You allowed the youngest to nuzzle against you, his need to completely drench you in his scent taking over even as you turned around in his arms to face the two cat hybrids once more. “Wait, so if you are bonded that must mean you’ve been together for a long time right?”

Minho shrugged, looking back at Felix as if he was checking to see if it was alright to answer your question and the younger cat nodded. “We were raised at the same shelter.” Minho said finally, Felix coming over to stand beside him and rest his head on the older’s shoulder. “Wait- like where Innie is from?” You felt the fox in question tightening his grip around your waist and you instinctually brought a hand up behind you to run your fingers through his hair soothingly. Minho smiled at the interaction, arms crossing over his chest. “No, not necessarily….hybrid centers are a lot more- like a factory? They take hybrids from breeders and raise and condition them a specific way to make the most money. They aim to create the perfect pets…” The older’s words caused you to frown, your free hand gripping Jeongin’s wrist where his hands were clasped together around your midsection.

“Shelters, however, take in abandoned hybrids of all ages and aim to rehabilitate and nurture them. It’s a much more relaxed environment. Still- Felix and I had bonded almost instantly and when it came time that someone wanted to adopt him they refused to take me as well…” Felix had a pout on his delicate features, seeming to be recalling the events as he buried his face in the older’s neck and Minho, like you had with Jeongin, brought a hand to the back of his neck wordlessly and gave him a comforting squeeze. “That’s when we broke out and found ourselves here…we knew we wouldn’t be able to survive without each other and well- we seem to be doing just fine here don’t you think so?”

You smiled warmly, nodding your head. “I’d say so….is that why you aren’t as scared of me? Cause things were more relaxed for you growing up?” Felix nodded then, pulling away to face you. “Mhm! I mean, yeah it was scary when we were almost separated and they wouldn’t listen to us that we needed to be together….but overall the humans who took care of us were very kind.”

It made a lot of sense, the way the two seemed to be the least hesitant around you after having just met, aside from Jisung who you knew had never met a human before you so he had nothing really to compare you to to be wary. You thought for a moment why Jeongin seemed to warm up to you so quickly, only realizing that he had over a month of time alone with you just not to your knowledge of him being a hybrid and not a normal fox.

“I’m sorry they tried to separate you two…it’s so obvious that the two of you mean a lot to each other- I can’t imagine how scary that must have been.” You gave them a frown, stepping away from Jeongin, despite his whines of protest, to wrap your arms around both cat hybrids tightly. Felix embraced you happily while Minho feigned disgust, head thrown back as he let out an exaggerated groan that you were suffocating him.

You couldn’t help the laughter that escaped you as you pulled away, the cats bidding you a good night with reminders to be up early to help with breakfast and you assured them that you would be on time. Jeongin was quick to pull you back towards him, one again nuzzling against you aggressively. “You smell too much like Minho-hyung now.” He huffed, his cheek rubbing behind your ear and his breath tickling the back of your neck. “I-Innie cut it out-“ your words were halted when you felt the gentlest graze of sharp teeth against your neck. Your breath hitched and the hybrid could hear how your heart rate began to skyrocket.

Jeongin smirked to himself, pride swelling in his chest at the reaction he was able to pull from such a small gesture. He wondered briefly how you would react if he were really to bite down, claim you as his own for all his hyungs to see so that maybe they would back off and realize that you were his pretty human and they should know their place.

“Jeongin, stop.” Your words were firm, as firm as your palms placed against his shoulders as you pushed him away gently. “I think you’re starting to get a little carried away, pervy little fox.” Jeongin pouted, looking at you confused until he realized while lost in his daydream he had drooled all down the side of your neck and shoulder. Flames of embarrassment licked at his skin and caused him to flush tremendously. “I-I…I’m sorry pretty- shit-“ he looked around before grabbing the dish towel Felix had set aside when he finished drying the dishes earlier and carefully cleaned up the mess of fox slobber he had left on you.

You couldn’t help but giggle, causing the hybrid to smile at the sound. “What were you even thinking about, innie? You seemed so spaced out.” He blinked a bit, shaking his head immediately. No way he could tell you what he had been thinking of. What if you felt differently? What if you didn’t want to be his? What if you would be disgusted with his craving for such an animalistic act of possession.

“Jeongin? Calm down- you’re rubbing a bit hard there.” Panic set in once again and he pulled back quickly when he realized he had been scrubbing your skin raw as he once again got lost in thought. “You must be tired. Let’s go to bed, yeah?” Your soft smile calmed him instantly and he nodded, taking the hand you offered before letting you pull him back to room.

Once safely inside you pulled him over and sat him down on the edge of the bed, running your hands through his hair gently as his arms once again snaked their way around your waist with his face pressed against your stomach. You smiled softly down at him as you began to hum softly a tune to an old lullaby you had heard as a child.

“Pretty?” His voice was hesitant, just barely above a whisper. “Yes, innie?” He took a deep breath, eyes closed as he thought of how to say what it was he wanted to. “Did you- um….were you in-inlove? You know…with him?”

You sighed, eyes closing as you thought for a moment how to put it into words, just as the hybrid had before asking his question. “No, I wasn’t. Jeongin I…where I come from, women don’t have a say in what our futures hold. I married him because I was told to, not because of love.” His frown could be felt against where his cheek was pressed to your lower abdomen, your hands never ceasing in their soft mensurations of combing through his hair.

“That’s not very fair…aren’t you a human just like your husband? Why don’t you get to choose-“ You shrugged, looking down at him softly. “I don’t really know, innie. That’s just how I was raised…how all the girls were raised where I’m from. Even my mother, and all the mothers and grandmothers before them…for as long as we’ve known.” That answer didn’t seem to sit well with the hybrid, his hold on you tightening. “If you could have chosen…what would you have wanted your future to be?” The question was so innocent yet held so much meaning to you that tears slowly began to pool in your eyes. “I would have been a teacher.” You smiled bitterly, shaking your head. “But that doesn’t matter. Let’s get some sleep? I’m feeling very tired after today…”

Jeongin’s frown deepened, sensing that you were still holding back from him but he didn’t want to push any further and risk upsetting you more.

That night he held you a little closer, your head tucked under his chin as he gently rubbed between your shoulders as you entered a night of fitful sleep as memories from your past began to plague your mind for the first time since you had been brought to the cabin.

The next morning you woke up to find yourself alone, even though the sky was still dark outside behind the curtains hanging in front of the lone window in the room. “Jeongin?” You called out softly, sitting up and rubbing the sleep from your eyes before looking around. “He went out.” Came a voice near the door, startling you slightly as it was a voice you hadn’t heard before. “Oh-“ Chan was standing in the doorway, his sharp gaze fixed on you causing you to feel the need to squirm uncomfortably in your spot on the bed. “Um..okay- thank you for letting me know.” The wolf hybrid let out a little huff as a response, watching you carefully as you rose from the bed and headed towards him.

“Go join Minho in the kitchen. Breakfast needs to be ready soon.” His voice was so cold, causing you to tense the closer you got. Despite his words telling you to leave he still stood in the doorway blocking your path. “O-Okay…I’ll be sure to work quickly then-“ he nodded curtly, stepping out of the way hesitantly with eyes still glued to you as you walked past and into the kitchen. Gosh, he must think you’re so lazy and incompetent to come and get you himself like that. You felt a shiver run down your spine as you could feel his eyes still on your retreating form as you made your way to the kitchen. Why is he even allowing you to stay here if he seems to hate you so much? You shook the thoughts from your head, meeting Felix’s soft eyes and kind smile as you entered the kitchen. “Good morning, pretty! Minho-hyung is just with Ji getting some eggs from the chickens for breakfast. Would you like some tea while we wait?”

As you sat with the younger of the two cats as you both drank your tea, waiting for the older to return with Jisung in tow. While you waited you felt arms wrap around you from behind and you expected to see Jeongin’s face when you turned to greet the person those hands belonged to but instead you were met with a very sleepy ferret. “Oh- good morning Hyunjin.” You cooed, giving his head a few scratches causing him to squeak happily as Changbin came up behind him to lean against the counter between you and Felix. “Morning pretty- sorry for him. He wouldn’t get out of bed until he was sure you were up.” You giggled, shaking your head to the bunny as you took a sip from your mug. “It’s fine, I don’t mind the affection. It’s nice.” If Hyunjin had been a cat rather than a ferret he would have purred at your words, rubbing his cheek against your own causing you to laugh.

Your conversation with the three hybrids about how they had slept died off as Minho and Jisung came in with a basket of eggs and flushed faces from the cold. “Pretty! So nice to see you’re finally awake, I was beginning to worry you had forgotten you were helping this morning.” Oh, had you overslept without realizing? Guilt crept into your mind and the cat hybrid must have noticed because he walked over and gave a light flick to your forehead. “I’m teasing. You didn’t do anything wrong. I was just shocked Ayen didn’t wake you up before he left.” Left? You looked at him with confusion, pulling away from the cuddly Hyunjin who pouted only for a moment at the loss before turning to cling to Felix instead.

“Huh, left?” Minho nodded, getting out the rest of the supplies they would need for breakfast. “I sent him and Seungmin out extra early to go to your camp and collect your things. They’ve already made two trips now I think? This should be the last of it though…”

You blinked at him, still so confused as he pointed over to the door where you just happened to notice the crates from your makeshift camp stacked neatly on top of one another. “They- why did they bring my stuff here?”

The hybrids all looked at you confused, as if it was an obvious answer you were seeming to miss. Changbin spoke up, his tone posing his words as a question as if to say you should already be aware of the answer. “Because you are living with us now?” Your eyes fell on each of them as you took in the genuine looks on their faces. They were lying, they had to be. You got to stay here? Like- indefinitely?

You were so sure that when Minho had told you that you would be staying it would only be until winter was over and that you would be sent back on your own the second it began to warm up outside.

“Pretty, did you really think we weren’t going to let you stay?” Minho asked as he nudged your hip with his own, leaning down to whisper in your ear. “If not our little fox may run away to keep you company. Can’t have him doing that, now can we. Besides, then I’d lose my talented little helper.” You blushed at his words, choosing to turn away from him and wash your hands to begin preparing breakfast.

Breakfast time seemed to be a whole different ordeal than dinner time, with the hybrids coming and going quickly just grabbing a plate and scarfing it down before heading out to do their own chores.

At some point while you had still been cooking Jeongin and Seungmin had arrived with the last of your things, eating their own breakfast before heading back out on patrol. It seems the youngest’s punishment had been lifted and you felt a little sad knowing that you would see him less during the day, already having become accustomed to having him with you at almost all times.

Once everything from the meal was cleaned and put away you turned to Minho for further directions. “So- now what do we do?”

Minho raised an eyebrow at you, walking towards the staircase by Jeongin’s room. “What do you mean? We do whatever until it’s time for dinner. The kids can handle their own lunches whenever they finish their chores.” You frowned in confusion, looking around awkwardly. “Um- so there isn’t anything else to do?” The cat smirked, shrugging at he nodded to your pile of things by the door. “You could move those into Jeongin’s room and get settled if you’d like? He’s the only one besides Chan that doesn’t have a roomate so it’s between the two of them who you wanna bunk with…and I’m sure you would prefer to stay with our Ayen-ah.” The light teasing caused your cheeks to turn pink as you nodded and made your way over to start bringing your things to the room you were most familiar with.

The rest of the afternoon was spent alone in the fox hybrid’s room, carefully arranging your things as to not disturb his belongings. Once you were satisfied with the little set up you felt rather tired, having gotten up so early and working non-stop until so late in the afternoon. If you had to guess it was probably a quarter after three, still some time before you would have to join Minho in the kitchen to prepare dinner, you thought as you laid down on the bed and allowed yourself to doze off into a sleep much more peaceful than the one you’d had the night before.

Upon waking up you noticed the blanket that had been folded at the end of the bed frame was now draped over you where you had fallen asleep on top of the quilt rather than fully getting under the covers for your nap. Huh- it must have been Minho or Felix coming to check on you, you thought, smiling to yourself as you put your hand out to get up and felt something under your palm that startled you into pulling your hand back quickly and looking down to see what it had been.

There, lying neatly beside you was a single flower with vibrant purple petals that resembled the pattern of a daisy and a bright yellow center. You gasped lightly, being extremely careful as you picked it up to examine it closer with a soft smile on your face. You don’t think you had ever received flowers before in your life, the gesture warming your heart as you brought it closer to give it a sniff. It didn’t have much of a smell to it but its beauty was so simplistic and delicate you couldn’t stop staring.

Jeongin must have come back from his patrol early and left it for you, you concluded, carefully setting it on the dresser before heading out to meet Minho in the kitchen.

You seemed to miss the way Chan stood by the staircase, seemingly waiting for you to exit the room and notice him but you hadn’t, walking to your destination with your task in mind causing the wolf to sigh as a little pout reached his expression. He turned and headed back towards the back door, knowing he still had part of his patrol to finish though when he spotted the patch of wild asters in the field near his area of the forest he couldn’t wait to bring it back for you, hoping that this would make up from how shy he had been that morning clearly making you feel uneasy despite his attempt to finally speak with you.

As he shifted back into his wolf form after nearly folding his clothes and leaving them at the back porch, he took off in a sprint as he tried to forget how you seemed to never fully notice just how much he longed for your attention to fall on him softly as it seemed to even with Seungmin from the night before. What was he doing wrong? Why did you still only seem to fear him? He guessed he would just have to try harder for you to notice him.

author’s note; I am gonna be so honest idk how I feel about this chapter- but I read it over so many times and I couldn’t find a way to rework it how I’d like sooo- I hope all still enjoy ૮꒰ “ . . ꒱ა

Taglist; (pink users I wasn’t able to tag) @coastinglove @estella-novella @chancloud8 @skzswife @motheraiya55 @zofia515 @skybluelixie @breadedloafs @inaribu00 @silly250 @royal-shinigami @thatgirlangelb @bby-boo4u @emmxxsworld @vampkittenb82 @h0rnyp0t @alisonyus @im-sinking-in-mud @ihrtlix @mrs-hwangh @danixiulin @wolfo2027 @kiaralynn3838 @ateez-atiny380 @daceyena @bookswillfindyouaway @blackcatpandora @popcatx0 @corgilover20 @marshmelonie @sassy-snassy @straykidslover2024

[breadedloafs]

yeshhhh another update!! we’re getting fed good today😋

Peppermint Tea 33 - All Blends 4

Summary: Katakuri is smart and the boys start to make up

Pep Tea Masterlist-> HERE

Katakuri stares at you, and a bad feeling begins to creep up. You look so sure of yourself, so confident that the men you named would come for you, and he couldn’t help but silently agree. He had seen the destruction that Shanks and Mihawk could bring, and his mother had brought it to their home. If he were a good son, and he was, Katakuri would go straight to Big Mom and tell her what was coming, shore up their defenses to hide you away to never see the light of day again. 

But, he can’t. Katakuri has never had a good example of love, especially with his family. He knew that his mother had never loved any of her husbands the way you obviously loved these two men. It is obvious with the way that you speak their names, laced with soft affection and a sureness of knowing that they would come for you. He knows then, that for the sake of his own family, he would have to go behind his mother’s back and give you back to them. 

“My mother never should have taken you,” He murmurs, and you look up at him in quiet surprise. 

You hadn’t expected him to say something like that, and you shift your weight, arms tightening about Sukuna. The cat begins to purr, but he doesn’t take his eyes off the giant man. He did not like this one, though he was glad that the other humans had left and he and his brother were out of sight of the disgusting female who sat on the cloud. She had put a fear into the cat that he had never felt before, and it had made him angry. 

His brother seemed content in this one’s presence, however, and Sukuna had found that Hank was a much better judge of character than he was, so maybe this one wasn’t so bad. He much preferred the other human men, though, and he hoped that they would get here soon. 

“No, she shouldn’t have,” you agree, and then shift so that you can sit down on the floor. Your belly makes it hard, but your feet ached, and you are tired of standing. It’s not like you were going anywhere anytime soon, anyhow. You tilt your head, eyeing Katakuri and the contemplative expression that he wears, “So what are you going to do about it?” 

He grumbles quietly to himself, crossing his arms over his massive chest. His family didn’t deserve the fate that would await them if Shanks and Mihawk showed up. The two of them would wipe the Charlotte family off the face of the planet, and nothing that his family could do would be able to stop those powerhouses. His mother had made a grave mistake in taking you, so he would fix it. 

Katakuri turns away from you, and back to the door. He had noticed your pregnant belly, and was sure that you were hungry, “I’ll be right back.” 

You watch the giant of a man leave, lips pursed to the side. When he is gone, you drop the brave face you are wearing and bury your face in Sukuna’s fluffy fur. Hank whines and pushes against you, sliding his big head under your arm, so you pull him close too. You were happy that Wiseman had allowed you to keep them with you, and their presence made the situation better, but you wished that none of this had happened in the first place. 

Truthfully, you couldn’t even find it in you to be mad at your boys anymore. The day that you were taken, you had told yourself that morning that you would call Mihawk again and ask them to come back home. You had told yourself that while you would never forget what Mihawk had a hand in, you could forgive him. The destruction of your home island had been over twenty years ago, and Mihawk had been a different person then. It wasn’t fair to keep him away when he has done nothing but take care of you the past few years. 

You had an idea in mind that it had been Shanks who had given away your island, and while you were terrified of having been taken, you weren’t upset with him. Despite how perfect the two men seemed to be, you knew that they were still human, and humans would always make mistakes. And if you were being honest with yourself, the trip to Whole Cake would have been fun if your circumstances were different. 

You’d seen so much while out on the sea. You had refused to interact with any of the crew, but they had allowed you to wander the ship and stay out on deck every now and then. Sukuna and Hank had stayed by your side the entire time, your cat swiping at any member of the crew who came too close to them. The cooks, who after finding out that you were pregnant, had provided you with all sorts of new and interesting food, and had been helpful in informing you about the nutritional side of it, too. 

You had absorbed the information, wanting to know everything you could get your hands on to properly be prepared for your child and the eventual birth. As if knowing that you were talking about her, the baby kicks wildly, and you grunt at the feeling. You glare down at your stomach, cursing both Shanks and Mihawk for doing this to you. 

Of course, you knew that unprotected sex led to children, but like everything that had happened to you the past couple of years, you hadn’t expected it to happen. You should have, but every time you had given any thought to the possibility, you’d shoved the thought away, not wanting to acknowledge it. 

“I know sweetheart, I miss them, too,” you murmur and smooth your hand over your stomach, and your baby kicks again. You can’t help but laugh when Sukuna is slightly dislodged by the next hit, and the cat turns to glare down at your stomach.

“We’ll be back with them before you come into this world, I’ll make sure of it,” you tell her because you don’t know if you would be able to do this all by yourself. You would need both Mihawk and Shanks there to welcome her, just in case you happened to not make it. 

It’s a morbid thought, but one you can’t help but have on occasion. You know that childbirth is dangerous, and for all that you have read and listened to Mihawk read aloud to you and Shanks, you can’t help but feel unprepared, and the feeling terrifies you. 

Your thoughts are interrupted when the door of the room creaks open and you look up to see Katakuri coming back inside the room. In one hand there is a plate of food that smells so good it makes your mouth water, and your stomach roars in interest. In the other hand is a snail transponder. You watch in interest as he sets the plate near you, and you can’t help but lean closer to get a good look. 

“Eat your fill, and then we’re going to make a call,” Katakuri tells you, and you eyed him suspiciously. The feeling of tentative hope begins to bloom in your chest and you scoot closer to the plate, picking at what you know you like and handing off scraps to Hank and Sukuna. You watched in fondness as your kids scarfed down everything you gave them. You sat the fluff ball down after you were finished and stood with a wince, your back protesting the movement. 

Katakuri sits across from you, and you can’t help but feel amused when you see the massive man sitting criss-cross, his hands resting on his knees while he watches you behind that scarf of his.    

“Done?” He asks, and when you nod, you get to witness just why his mouth curves up like it does. He pulls the scarf down, opens his mouth wide, and dumps the rest of what is left on the plate down his gullet. You watch wide-eyed as he chews a couple of times and then swallows. He shrugs when he sees you watching him, a blush staining his cheeks that you can’t help but giggle at. 

“Are all of your family named after food?” you ask him, and Katakuri dips his head in a nod, crossing his arms over his chest. 

“Yes, our mother has a fondness for it,” He grumbles and eyes your stomach when you waddle around, arms stretched high over your head to try and relieve some tension in your back, “Have you thought of a name?” 

The question stalls you, and you drop your arms, looking down to stare at your pregnant belly. It’s a good question, and it makes an embarrassed flush light up your face. You’d been so busy wallowing the past few weeks without Mihawk or Shanks to keep you company, that other than focusing on your furry children, you never put much thought into a name for your actual child.

“...No.” 

Katakuri just shrugs, “Sometimes you don’t know until they are born. Mother makes it look easy.” 

You can’t help but snort. Of course, it would be easy for a woman like Big Mom, all she had to worry about was the possibility of repeating one of her many children’s names, “I’m sure that I will figure one out.” 

However, talking about this makes you miss your boys even more. It should be them that you were talking baby names about, not the son of the woman who kidnapped you. You swallow thickly and wrap your arms around yourself, smiling wetly down at Hank when the big lug crawls up to you with a low whine. Fuck. You miss them so much. 

Katakuri stares at the woman who was slated to be his wife and frowns, his decision to go behind his mother’s back cementing even further. He’d never wanted any children to begin with, he had plenty of siblings that he had helped his mother raise, so to him, it wasn’t that important for him to find a wife, never had been. Charlotte would be angry at him, but she would get over it. 

You jump when the transponder snail is sitting in front of you, and you look up at Katakuri in question. He gestures at it, “Call them.”

You turn wide eyes on Katakurti, heart in your throat, and voice nothing but a croak, “What?” 

Katakuri rolls his eyes and scoots the snail closer, repeating himself, “Call them.”

----

Perona jumps when the snail transponder begins to ring. They have been sailing for the better part of two weeks now, getting closer and closer to Big Mom and Whole Cake. She stares at it for several seconds before she jumps up and answers. 

Ca-lick. 

“Mihawk?” 

Perona’s throat goes dry, eyes going wide at the sound of your voice. 

“_!?” 

She hears you suck in a sharp breath, and when you speak again, it sounds choked like you were holding back tears. 

“Perona? Is he there?”

The pink-haired girl is already striding to the deck of the ship, snail clutched tightly in her hand, “I’m finding him now. Gods, are you okay? They’ve not hurt you have they?” 

She hears you sniff on the other side of the phone and then the sound of a yowling cat, Sukuna having heard the familiar voice of his second favorite human and letting her know how displeased her was.

“No, I’m okay. I’ve been with Katakuri the entire time, and he’s been nice so far. I can hear the ocean, where are you?”

Perona scoffs, skidding to a stop beside Mihawk, and holding the transponder snail out to him, “On our way to you, silly!” 

Mihawk whips around, hand snatching the snail out of her daughter’s hand and cradling it closer, ringed eyes taking in the basic features of your face that the snail forms, “Angel?” 

He hears you burst into tears on the other side of the call, and a fond smile tugs at the corner of his lips. Mihawk had missed the sound of your voice, even if it was thick with sobbing. 

“I’m here, please, please tell me that you are on the way. Is Shanks there?” 

Mihawk purses his lips, heart thruming with irritation at the redhead for half a second before he pushes it away, “No, dear one, he isn’t. We decided to travel apart to cover a large search area. How are you, both of you?” 

He listens to you sniff and cry for a second longer, and then your voice breaks through once more. 

“We’re both okay. Suku and Hank have kept me safe. Are you okay? You sound better than the last time we spoke.” 

Mihawk grimaces at the reminder. He and Shanks had been in a drunken stupor for days and were still under the influence when you had called the last time, “I’m fine, darling. You shouldn’t worry yourself, over me. Where are you?” 

The snail morphs into a masculine face then, and Mihawk can’t help but glare down at it. He could recognize the purple hair and dark eyes as one of Big Mom’s sons. Rage threatens to consume the warlord, knowing that you were with them, but he pushes it down for now. You had told him that you were doing okay, so that meant they had not hurt you or the child growing inside. Mihawk would teach them the meaning of destruction if you had been. 

“Whole Cake, but we plan to travel back to my home tomorrow. It’s on the eastern side of the archipelago.” 

Mihawk sneers, “And why are you telling me this?” 

There is a scoff on the other side, and he watches the snail roll its eyes at him. 

“Because I’m giving _ back to you. Mother should have known better than to take her in the first place, and I’ve seen what you and Shanks are capable of. I’m saving my family.” 

The warlord can’t help the dry laugh that escapes him, “Charlotte was a fool to have thought that her actions would not have consequences. You are doing the right thing by giving _ back to us. At least one of you has some kind of intelligence.” 

The snail gains your features again, your tone amused but admonishing. 

“Be nice, Mihawk.” 

He listens to you and asks Katakuri the name of his home, and then you are back. 

“The island is called Komugi. It’ll have a big donut in the center of it.” 

Mihawk nods, committing the location and name to memory, “I’ll be there, darling. Perona and I are only a couple of days out.” 

“Please hurry, Mihawk. I miss you.” 

His heart aches in his chest, and Dracule wants more than anything to be able to wrap you up in his arms and hold you close. To hide you away and never leave your side, so that this could never happen again, “We’ll be there as soon as we can, sweetheart.”

He hears you sniff again, and then your voice is quiet but strong. 

“And Mihawk, please don’t be too upset with Shanks. None of us are perfect, and I’m sure he is beating himself up enough without you tearing him down.” 

Mihawk sighs heavily and looks out into the sea. He had already begun to regret how he had reacted to the news back on your island. You and Perona were right. 

“I will beg his forgiveness just like I will beg yours, darling. I’ll call Shanks and tell him to meet us at Komugi. Be strong for us, darling. I’ll see you soon.”

He listens to you give a teary goodbye and the snail transponder clicks once the call is ended. Mihawk dreads having to call the redhead, but if he didn’t, he knew that Shanks would go straight to Sweet City and raze the entire island to the ground. The emperor had always been rash when it came to the people he loved. 

“Do you really think she is okay?” Perona asks him, and Mihawk dips his head in a nod, opening his arm to the ghost girl so she can tuck herself close to him. He had learned from you that sometimes a person just needed a little physical contact to feel better. You would be proud of him, he thinks. 

“She would have told us if they weren’t treating her well, and I find myself… trusting Katakuri to keep his word.”

Perona pouts but nods, “They better. I’ll throw ‘em all in the ocean myself if they aren’t.” 

Hawkeye huffs a laugh and then releases his charge, turning away to go below deck. He still needed to phone Shanks. 

---

Shanks can see the archipelago that makes up Whole Cake on the horizon. They sailed hard and quickly, taking shortcuts and catching updrafts only he knew about to get to Big Mom’s territory as fast as possible. Shanks and his crew were ready for anything that the woman could possibly throw at them, for he had let that rage build and grow inside of him, his haki lashing out uncontrollably.

Not only had you been taken, but Mihawk had taken his heart and crushed it with no remorse. Shanks didn’t like it, but he couldn’t help but resent the other man for it at first. He had worked so hard to get the older man to trust him, and one tiny mistake on his part had led to Mihawk throwing his love for him in his face and raised his sword in anger at the redhead. Shanks understood that what he’d done had cost them you, but he hadn’t been the one who had made their treasure send them away. That blame lay at the hawk’s feet. 

So yeah, he was pissed right the fuck off, and had let his anger fester when he would normally let it slide away. He had wept and raged and drank in his cabin for the better part of the trip, and had only stopped when Neal, the damned goat, had tried to bite his fingers when he’d reached for the next bottle of rum. They had glared at one another before Shanks had scoffed and fell back in his bed to sleep the rest of the day away. 

Shanks’ anger had tempered in that time, but the more he was forced into being sober, the more he felt those feelings of resentment had faded into hurt. He had already beaten himself into the ground over his fat mouth in the first place and had hoped that Mihawk would have been a bit more understanding, but he should have known better. 

“Shanks,” Benn says quietly, and he turns to see his first mate standing behind him with the transponder snail in hand. It looks at him with familiar golden eyes, and he purses his lips, tempted to ignore the older man, but Benn puts that thought to the ground, “It’s about _.” 

The emperor sucks in a sharp breath and snatches the snail out of the other man’s hand, and beats a hasty retreat to his quarters. Once safely inside, he sets the snail on his desk and plops in his chair, “Mihawk.” 

“Shanks. Where are you?” 

The redhead frowns, leaning back in his seat, “Why?” 

He hears the warlord sigh in frustration, and can’t help the smarmy smirk that crosses his lips. Good, be mad.

“Because I know where _ is and I am still a few days away from Whole Cake.” 

Shanks drops the act at that and sits forward, eyes going wide, “What? How do you know?” 

“She called me. They planned to marry her off to Katakuri, one of Linlin’s son but he understood how ignorant that would be and decided to let her call me. They plan on traveling to his home island tomorrow. So where are you?” 

“We’re just out of range of any of their ships, but I can see the archipelago.” 

Mihawk huffs again on the other side, and Shanks watches the snail narrow its eyes at the redhead. 

“Then start sailing east, and I will meet you there.” 

If this hadn’t been about you, then Shanks would have snapped and been difficult about the obvious order, so ignored the urge. He is about to agree and just hangs up the phone, but Mihawk’s next words stop him in his tracks. 

“I’m sorry, Red. I should not have reacted the way I did. I was angry, and worried about _, but I should not have taken it out on you. You didn’t deserve that.” 

Shanks isn’t sure what to say at first. It was like pulling teeth to get an apology out of the warlord, so he knew that you had to have something to do with this. But even if you had been involved with this, he could hear the quiet sincerity in the other man’s voice, and it made Shanks ache with the need to see him. 

“I-.”

“I love you, Shanks. I don’t want you to think that I don’t.”

Unbidden, tears spring up in the redhead’s eyes, and he smooths a hand over his mouth. He blinks harshly to clear them away, heart in his throat, “I love you, too.” 

He can hear the relieved sigh on the other side, and the warlord is back to his usual drawl seconds later. 

“I will meet you there by the end of tomorrow. Wait for me, Shanks. We will get _ back together.” 

Shanks swallows roughly and scrubs at his face, voice still thick with unshed tears, “Okay, Hawkeye. We’ll wait for you. Be safe, yeah?” 

The other man huffs on the other side. 

“I should be telling you that, Red. I’ll see you soon.” 

Ca-lick

Shanks curls into himself the moment the transmission is cut, hope and relief flooding his veins and he finally allows the tears to fall. His shoulders shake, and a broken whine leaves his lips as all the rage and resentment floods out of him. His family was slowly beginning to mend itself, all they needed was you, and everything would be okay again. 

The emperor pulls himself together and drys his eyes with the back of his hand. His crew would know that he’d been crying, but the redhead can’t find it within himself to care. Shanks stands and ambles back out on deck dropping his hand on Neal’s head when he walks past the goat. 

“Sail us east, Yasopp. We’re meeting up with Mihawk,” he orders, and Benn lopes up beside him, his brows raised and an unlit cigarette hanging from between his lips. 

“Good news?” 

Shanks nods, and angles a smile at his first mate, “Good news.”

Tag list: @writingmysanity @djbumblebee @goth-mami-writer @myradiaz @fluffybunnyu @bookandstar @foggyturtleknightangel @browneyedhufflepuff @anastasiyax @jaguarthecat @atricksterwithwings @black-swan-blog27 @breadedloafs @enpvrirnce @gottalovethefandom @mfreedomstuff @caniseethefourthsword @olenoname @glitterystarfishfestival

[breadedloafs]

omg these backstories are getting sadder and sadder😭 poor channie and minnie, poor all of them🥺😭

Give Me Your TMI~ Chapter 3

˚⊹ᰔ Pairing; Yang Jeongin x Fem!reader, Stray kids x Fem!reader

₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ Summary; In a world where Humans and Hybrids should be living as equals, Hybrids are still viewed as being closer to their animalistic side than their humanistic. Deep in the woods lives a band of misfit hybrids who reject these societal views and keep to themselves, choosing to live away from humans. What happens when the youngest of this rogue group meets a lost Human girl, befriending her after an incident where he must rely on her for help?

₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ Warnings; hybrid!au, female!reader, angst, mild violence, mentions of sexual harassment/assault and discrimination, she/her pronouns used for reader, this is very loosely based off the overall themes/tones of the manga and anime fruits basket~

Over the next couple of days you worked on getting your strength back, eating whatever it was Minho brought you as you slowly began moving from broth to stew and stew then paired with bread. You started walking around the room with one of the hybrids’ assistance, usually Jeongin as the fox had yet to leave your side unless he was ordered to by Minho.

Occasionally you could hear the others outside the small bedroom, Felix and Jisung having informed you that there were eight hybrids in total living in the cabin.

You had yet to meet them but you would always listen closely when you heard them outside, wondering if any of them would ever come to meet you. One night you had asked Minho about it after he brought you your dinner, frowning softly at the question of why they hadn’t come to see you as you ate your meal. Minho had answered with a sigh.

“Some of us aren’t very trusting of humans I’m afraid…honestly I’m shocked our Innie warmed up to you as easily as he did.” You raised an eyebrow at the mention of the fox who had been no less than ordered to go help one of the other hybrids, Hyunjin, with the laundry.

“How come? I mean he doesn’t seem to be afraid of me…” He gave you a smile that was all too cat-like as a soft purr rumbled in his chest. “I’ll let him tell you on his own, but our Ayen didn’t have the best upbringing and the humans he has met up to you were less than unkind. You just seem to be the exception, I guess.”

The conversation was left there, and it wasn’t until the third day since you had woken up that you got to meet another member of their family.

“Alright, not to say you smell or anything but I think it’s time you got a bath young lady.” Minho laughed, hands on his hips as he had just finished helping you walk around the room. You were fine now, able to fully walk on your own but they still insisted on holding onto you regardless. You appreciated their help but it was starting to feel like they were babying you a bit too much. “Uh, okay- that’s fine with me.” As you stood, the cat shook his head and called for Jeongin. “Innie, would you be a dear and help our pretty here with her bath?”

The youngest gawked a bit, looking between Minho and yourself before nodding eagerly and walking to where you were sat. “Guys, seriously isn’t this a bit excessive? I can bathe myself just fi-“ The fox hybrid scooped you up in his arms, carrying you bridal style and causing a blush to fan across your face from just how strong he was.

Minho smirked, eyeing the two of you for a minute before shrugging. “It’s just a precaution. You did almost die, ya know…best to air on the side of caution.”

With a sigh you allowed Jeongin to carry you out of the room and down the hall towards the bathroom. This was the first time since you had woken up that you left Jeongin’s room and you curiously looked around the space to take everything in just as you had when you first woke up in the small bedroom.

The house seemed oddly vacant, though assumed the other hybrids were away tending to their chores as Jeongin had explained to you one afternoon.

Minho and Felix took care of the cabin, any cleaning or cooking fell to them.

Hyunjin and Changbin kept up with the laundry and tended to their garden, harvesting and planting depending on the season.

Han was tasked with taking care of the chicken coop they had tucked at the back of the cabin as well as climbing high up in the trees to look out for any suspicious activity in the skies like planes or helicopters that could be getting too close and possibly spotting them living out on the mountain.

Chan, Seungmin, and himself were tasked with patrolling the surrounding forest in look out for anyone lurking around their territory. Anyone like yourself, he told you with a fond smile on his face.

Since you had come to stay with them Jeongin had been tasked with looking after you, with Minho’s instruction, and for the meantime Chan and Seungmin had divided their territory into halves instead of thirds to make up for the loss. You felt guilty taking him from such an important task even though Minho had teased that it was supposed to be a punishment to the fox for disobeying their leader’s orders.

Still, if you had taken better care of yourself then they wouldn’t have had to take you under their care in the first place.

You had no clue why Chan had let you stay, Jeongin having told you one night while you ran your fingers through his hair as the both of you drifted off to sleep, that their family head had the worst history of them all with humans. If he was so distrustful of your kind then why did he allow you to stay for this long, even if you were ill, you wondered.

From what you could see on your short trip from the youngest’s room to the bathroom you saw a glimpse of the kitchen, a small living area with well worn couches and arm chairs, and a few doors scattered about that could be other bedrooms as well as closets and such.

Before you could continue your exploration of everything within your line of vision Jeongin’s walked into the bathroom and shut the door behind you both with his foot before gently setting you down atop the closed toilet seat. “Just give me a few minutes to get the bath drawn, yeah?” He spoke softly, blushing a bit at the thought of seeing you bare once more.

On the night he had brought you to the cabin they had dressed you in some of his clothes after your temperature had finally warmed up, the youngest having insisted it be his own clothes even though something of Felix or Jisung’s probably would have been a better fit. The smell of you covered in his scent caused pride to swell in his chest and seeing the way they hung off your frame now made him feel a little dizzy and like his heart could beat out of his chest.

“Innie I could have done all this myself, you know- I don’t want to be a burden…” your voice got smaller towards the end, hesitant as if speaking those words would make it true. The fox loved how you had taken to calling him by the same nicknames as his Hyungs. It was one thing whenever they would call him something so endearing but to come from you was a whole new story. Blush crept up the back of his neck and painted his cheeks as he shook his head, keeping his gaze to where the warm water slowly filled the claw footed tub. “It’s fine, really. I um…I like taking care of you, if that’s okay? Since I don’t really have any other job now due to punishment it makes me feel helpful.” His words warmed your heart and caused you to see things in a different light, comforted knowing that even if the others didn’t agree at least your dear friend Mr.fox didn’t feel like you were becoming too much to handle.

Once the bath was drawn and Jeongin had poured in some of the epsom salts they kept under the sink he turned away as you stripped yourself down before lowering yourself into the water. You hissed lightly at the temperature as you had become so accustomed to bathing in the icy waters of the river by your camp. “Too hot?” The fox hybrid questioned, still keeping his back to you. “No, not at all. Feels really nice.” You hummed, submerged up to your collar bones in the water before pulling your knees up to your chest to give yourself some sort of privacy. “Y-You can turn around if you’d like?”

Jeongin slowly turned back to face you, struggling to keep his breathing even as he came to sat on the floor beside the tub and rest his chin on the edge. “You know I’ve never seen a girl before….human or hybrid. Not before that day at the river-“ you gasped, seem just then remembering how the fox had stared at you from the trees as you took your time drying off, not realizing that it wasn’t just a wild animal watching you. “Oh you pervy little fox!” You teased with a giggle, lightly flicking water at his face and causing him to laugh as he pulled away. “I-I didn’t mean to stare I was just- it was new okay? I was curious-“ the hybrid tried to defend himself though he could tell you weren’t actually upset with him over the encounter.

As you sat in the bath you allowed the hybrid to carefully wet your hair before gently massaging shampoo onto your scalp. You let out a soft groan at the feeling, eyes closed and head tilted back slightly as he worked the suds in thoroughly. You both feel into a peaceful silence as he rinsed your hair before repeating his actions once more.

You were relaxed, feeling safe in the young fox’s care when suddenly the door swung open causing both of you to jump and whip around to see who the intruder could be.

Your eyes met and you could feel the energy shift as your gaze locked with the beagle hybrid. His hair was a soft chocolate brown with floppy ears to match, his eyes soft though full of fear as he looked at you with his hands still clutching the door handle so tight that his knuckles turned white and his white tipped tail stilled behind him. His face and clothes were covered in dirt you assumed was from patrolling in the woods and it caused a soft smile to slip onto your lips. He looked so cute like that, boyish even, and it immediately endeared you to the hybrid.

Jeongin watched him carefully, hesitantly raising his hands up in a surrendering manner. “Seung-“ before he could say any more the beagle was gone, bolting from the doorway so fast he had left the door wide open.

You watched the space where he once was, face falling in disappointment as the fox quickly got up to shut the door and give the two of you privacy once more. When he returned to your side Jeongin saw as you stared down at the water with your knees clutched tight to your chest. “Don’t mind him, pretty. He’s a little, um…shy-“ He sat back down and rinsed your hair once more of the conditioner he had added before combing his fingers through it slowly to remove any tangles he had caused during his little scalp massage.

“Is he afraid of me?” Your voice was small, causing Jeongin’s heart to ache as he paused. “No no- it’s not that.” He tried to reassure you, though truth be told Seungmin most likely was on edge by your presence. “Some of us don’t really feel safe around humans just yet cause of what we’ve been through…Seungmin is one of them.”

You sat deep in thought for a moment, hesitating to ask the question burning in your mind but your curiosity got the better of you. “What- um…what happened, if it’s alright that I ask?” This wasn’t the first time you had heard one of them speak of the troubled past of their family and it only left you with more questions after the reaction Seungmin had to simply seeing you in their bath. Jeongin took a deep, shaky breath before rinsing his hands and sitting with his back to the bath, wet hands drying themselves on his shirt nervously. “I was raised in a hybrid center…more like a factory, really.” He paused once more, his knees coming up to his chest as you moved to press your front to the inside edge of the bath while resting your chin on your hands where they held onto the rim.

“We were taken from the breeders and raised completely separate from other classes and genders…some hybrids were treated better than others- more specifically prey hybrids or domestic breeds were handled more kindly than-“ “foxes?” You guessed as he let his sentence hang in the air for too long. “Right.”

You watched carefully as his ears flattened to his head, a tell you had learned meant he was upset. “You don’t have to tell me if it’s too hard to talk about, Innie…” Jeongin shook his head, jaw clenching. “No, I want you to know. I’ll be okay.” He took another deep breath before continuing. “They would call us names, beat us, tell us that we were too wild or aggressive when we were just playing around with each other.” There was a little whimper in his voice that caused your heart to sting and you instantly brought your hand to play with his hair. Calming at your touch, he pushed onwards. “We were beat and sometimes starved as punishment, or locked away in a small yard in the back with no shelter even if the sun was beating down, rain poured, even in the winter snow…”

A small silence one again fell between you as you gently pushed his hair back from his forehead and scratched lightly behind his ears causing the hybrid to whimper and whine softly, almost losing his place in the story with how nice it felt. “One day I was locked out there in the rain- it was so cold and I thought I was going to freeze to death. I had shifted into my fix form even though it was forbidden at the center- but my fur was the only thing I had to keep me warm. That’s when I notice the gap in the chain link fence…” swallowing deeply, Jeongin finished his story with a voice just above a whisper. “I slipped out knowing no one would be watching the cameras at feeding time, and I never looked back. It took me weeks before I found Chan and the others….I had been in my fox form for so long it took me four days before I finally could shift back.”

Your heart ached for him, planting a soft kiss at the top of his head. “Oh Innie- that’s awful…you didn’t deserve to be treated like that. How could anyone treat another living being so cruelly?” You huffed a bit in frustration, sitting back upright in the bath as the hybrid turned to face you. “That’s just my story….Seungmin had it even worse…Chan too.” You frowned, splashing him lightly with the now lukewarm water. “Hey, quit that. Don’t belittle your own traumas just because others may have had it worse.” He chuckled lightly, splashing you back. “I only meant that since they had it worse they are even less trusting of humans than me, silly.” You pouted a bit, realizing you had jumped to conclusions made embarrassment paint your cheeks pink. “Now hurry up and wash your body before the water gets too cold and we have to warm you up again.” The young fox teased as he handed you a bar of soap and a wash cloth.

After you finished with your bath Jeongin wrapped you in a clean towel and handed you a folded stack of clothes. “I’ll leave so you can get dressed, just come out to the kitchen when you’re done cause I think Minho-hyung said something about wanting to talk to you.” Your body froze hearing that the older wanted to talk with you, a little anxiety creeping inside you at the fear of what it could be about. “Oh um- okay..” Jeongin gave you a soft smile before leaving you alone to dress yourself.

You carefully unfolded the clothes to find yet another baggy long sleeve tshirt and a pair of dark pajama pants. You blushed lightly realizing you would have to go without undergarments but pulled the clothes on regardless.

Once dressed you padded your way out and into the main part of the cabin, back tracking to where you saw the kitchen when you were on your way to the bathroom with Jeongin earlier. Minho was in the kitchen as the fox had predicted, setting stuff from the fridge out on the counter when he looked up to meet your eyes with a smile. “Ah there’s our pretty all nice and clean. Come here would you?” His voice was cheery but you still kept your steps towards him hesitant. “I’m not gonna bite you, I’m not Chan.” He teased but the mention of the wolf hybrid caused you to tense more. After making your way fully into the kitchen and to the cat hybrid’s side you looked up at him nervously. Minho gave a soft smile and ran his hands up and down your arms in a comforting manor. “Calm down, pretty…I just wanted to tell you what your chores will be around here since you will be staying with us.”

Your brain seemed to malfunction at that, you must not have heard him right. “Staying? Wait- I…I get to stay?” Your eyes became glassy as you looked up at him hopefully. Ever since you had started to get better you worried when the day would come that they would send you back to the forest and your tiny little camp, wondering if they would even allow Jeongin to come and visit again since it seemed to be something worth punishing the boy over. “Yes, of course you get to stay. We aren’t gonna send you back out into the cold.” Oh, you thought. Right…winter was just around the corner. Even though some of them distrust humans they didn’t seem so cruel as to put you out in such terrible weather after saving you once already knowing you were not prepared for such. “So…I’ll have chores?” Your voice was quiet, eyes still looking into his own as you composed yourself and waited for his instructions.

Minho gave you a warm smile before moving back towards the ingredients laid out on the counter. “Mhm, everyone here has chores. You, my dear, will be helping me with the cooking from now on.” You beamed, nodding your head as you moved to face the counter. This was something you could do easily, so the fact that it had been chosen as your task for you seemed like fate. “I can do that! So, what do you need me to do?” The cat grinned at your enthusiasm, glad to see your spirits lifted as he pushed a cutting board and various vegetables towards you. “I need you to rinse these, peel the carrots and potatoes, and cut them up for me. We are having stew for dinner so make sure they are small enough to cook all the way through.”

With that you set to your task, carefully washing and peeling the vegetables before beginning to cut them. As you worked you began to hum to yourself under your breath, completely absorbed in your job as Minho glanced over at you from where he was preparing the meat. “You’re really good at that, you know. Have you done a lot of cooking before?” The praise took you off guard, but you smiled nonetheless. “Thank you. I actually learned from my mother.” Your hands stilled in their movements, knife poised with the tip down on the cutting board with the thicker part of the blade resting against the potato you were in the middle of cutting into smaller cubes. “She um…she said that no good wife should ever let her husband come home without a home cooked meal waiting for him.” Minho frowned, scoffing a little as he reached over you to snag a piece of carrot you had chopped before popping it into his mouth and biting down with an audible crunch. “Oh yeah? So does that make me a good wife?” He teased, giving you a smug smile as you laughed so hard you snorted a bit. “Perhaps you are, but who would be the husband?”

Before he could answer a voice called out from behind you as the front door swung open. “What’s this about a husband?” You turned around to see the two hybrids who had been working in the yard now standing with wide eyes as they realized it was more than just their beloved cook in the kitchen. “Ah! Hyunjin, Changbin- I don’t believe you’ve met our newest addition. This is our pretty~” Minho introduced you with a teasing glint in his eye as he turned back to the meat he was preparing to add to the brother simmering on the stove.

The two hybrids watched you cautiously, still frozen in place so you decided to speak up. “U-Um…hello! I’m y/n but uh- the others have just been calling me pretty?” A light blush painted your cheeks as you looked down at the counter shyly. “That makes sense…you are very pretty.” Hyunjin said softly, slowly walking up to you with Changbin following closely behind albeit a bit more timidly. “Are you feeling better?” His voice was so sweet it caused your heart to flutter as you gave him a smile. “Mhm much better now thanks to Dr. Minho.” You didn’t miss the opportunity to tease the cat, hearing him snicker behind you as he listened in while working.

Taking in the appearance of the two you noted the small white ears atop Hyunjin’s head and his long white and brown tail. Changbin had a pair of floppy black ears that looked incredibly soft though from where he was standing you couldn’t see the matching bunny tail behind him. “I’m glad. I know we didn’t come to see you but we were still worried- you looked really bad when Innie brought you here.” Changbin spoke, his voice low and you turned to give him a warm smile as you had Hyunjin. “Thank you for worrying about me. I’m sorry to intrude on your lives like this…but it’s very nice to have been able to meet such kind people.”

The hybrid pair gave each other a look before turning back to you with bright smiles. Instantly arms circled around your waist as the ferret hybrid laid his entire body against your back, his chest pressed firmly against you as his chin rested on the top of your head. “Whatever your cooking smells soooo good- will dinner be soon?” You were a bit shocked at first, stumbling a little to support his weight but the heat from his body felt nice. Minho scoffed, picking up an end from one of the carrots you had cut and chucking it at his head causing the ferret to whine dramatically. “Ya! If you keep asking then we’ll be serving ferret stew instead!” You heard laughter ringing out from the bunny hybrid to your left, Changbin’s hands resting over his stomach before he pointed at the other two hybrids. “Careful Jinnie- you know he’ll do it too! Remember the tissues?” Your eyes widened, completely lost at the inside joke as you looked between the cat and bunny. “M-Minho would…cook you?” There was a sad pout on your lips that caused Minho to coo at you and shake his head. “I’m only teasing, pretty. I’d never hurt my family. Just gotta show the young ones their place sometimes.” You relaxed, nodding shortly before returning to the task he had given you. It was only slightly more difficult with Hyunjin clinging to your back as he started to doze lightly.

After you finished cutting all the vegetables Minho swooped in to take them from you, nodding to the hybrid half asleep on you. “Can you take him over to the couch for me, pretty? I need you to clean up and help Felix set the table.” You nodded to him, tapping the hands that rested around your waist to get the ferrets attention. “Hm? I’m up- I’m awake.” Hyunjin stirred, bleary eyes blinking to look around the room. “Come on, Hyunjin. Let’s go get you comfy okay?” He nodded, following as you lead him into the living room and helped him lay down on the couch. You pulled the blanket from where it had been folded neatly over the back of the sofa and covered the hybrid in it, making sure he was snug before heading over to the large wooden dinner table where the younger cat hybrid was currently setting out the plates. “Hi Pretty! Could you maybe get the cutlery from the drawer over there? While you’re setting those out I’ll get the cups.” His smile was like pure sunshine causing your breath to hitch when it was directed towards you. “U-Uh okay, sure.” You made your way to where he had pointed, grabbing nine sets of silverware before heading over to place them at each seat.

As you were placing the last set down you heard the door swing open and shut but unlike the last time the person entering the home didn’t say a word. You turned to see who it could have been, expecting to see Jisung returning from his chores only to be met with a sight that sent a shiver down your spine. Walking casually from the front door was a rather large black wolf, easily twice maybe even three times as large as you. Your eyes were probably as wide as saucers as you couldn’t help but stare. You had never seen a creature so big up close like this and a tremor set into your hands as you followed his movements carefully. So this was the head of their family…Chan. His eyes were sharp, almost calculating and you felt in awe of just how…majestic he seemed, he was mesmerizing. When he noticed you staring, Chan began stalking towards you causing you to back up until your lower back hit the table. You were effectively trapped with the wolf merely a foot away. He sniffed at you for a moment before letting out a low rumbling sound that caused you to flinch. When he caught the movement his eyes softened, quickly darting away to the room at the farthest end of the house much like Seungmin had ran from you earlier. Your body still trembled with fear as Jeongin rushed to your side. “Hey, pretty what’s wrong?” He had come out of his room just in time to see Chan’s retreat to his room and when he had looked in the direction he was coming from he saw you shaking with your hands clutching onto the table cloth as if it was your lifeline. “I-I don’t know….I think I made him angry? I’m so-sorry-“ you stumbled over your words, still shaken up by the fear he sent washing over you with just a single interaction.

Back in his room the oldest shifted back into his human form before curling up on his bed, tears silently falling from his eyes as he couldn’t get the look of fear on your face and the way you flinched away from him out of his mind. Maybe he really was some monster to all humans, even the most gentle as he had come to learn you were. You embraced them all so warmly, the wolf having watched from the shadows as you cuddled up at night with their youngest, whispering stories to him as you both drifted off to sleep. Or how you marveled at Minhos care for you, always thanking him profusely for even the smallest things and relaxing enough around him to return his teasing on occasion. How you allowed Jisung to play with your hair as Felix sat in front of you as you braided his, not seeming to mind when the chipmunk only seemed to add tangled messes instead of intricate braids as you did for the cat in your lap. Even just before he had entered the home he saw the way you allowed Hyunjin, who you had only just met, rest himself on you so familiarly before tucking him in gently.

Why couldn’t you embrace him that way….why not him? He let himself cry for a moment longer before there was a knock on his door. “Hyung? It’s….Minho says dinner is done. Will you uh- go with me? I’m afraid to go alone.” He quickly wiped away his tears, rising to throw on some of the cleaner clothes from his hamper since he still needed to shower after dinner and didn’t want to bother with anything clean at the moment. “Sure thing, Minnie. You don’t have to be afraid, yeah? She’s- I wouldn’t have allowed her to stay if I thought she would hurt us.” He tried to assure Seungmin once he opened the door to greet him. The other canine seemed to have been crying himself, eyes puffy and tired as he held his gaze downward. “I know, I trust you I just-“ Chan shook his head, ruffling the younger hybrid’s hair before taking his hand and leading him out towards the dining table. “I understand, but things will be okay. I’ll protect you.” This seemed to calm Seungmin enough to follow him willingly, although still hesitant. Chan braced himself to see you again, pushing away his negative thoughts of self hatred and doubt to try and make it through dinner until he could turn in for the night and continue to avoid you while also watching from afar, longing for the gentleness that seemed to flow from you so freely.

author’s note; ooohh little lore drops and big lore drops! How we feeling after learning Innie’s backstory?? Anyone else need tissues? Or maybe to beat up the people who would do that to him?? I’m so curious what you guys might be thinking the others backstories are that makes them so afraid/distrusting of humans~ I hope you all enjoyed this chapter and I look forward to reading all your comments and such hehe till next time! Also I am SO sorry if I forgot to tag someone who I already told could be on the taglist- I accidentally deleted a couple people when trying to copy and paste the list from my notes and I tried to go back and find all the accounts but I feel like I still missed some ໒꒰ྀིっ˕ -｡꒱ྀི১

taglist; (pink users I wasn’t able to tag) @coastinglove @estella-novella @chancloud8 @skzswife @motheraiya55 @zofia515 @skybluelixie @breadedloafs @inaribu00 @silly250 @royal-shinigami @thatgirlangelb @bby-boo4u @emmxxsworld @vampkittenb82 @h0rnyp0t @alisonyus @im-sinking-in-mud @ihrtlix @mrs-hwangh @danixiulin @wolfo2027 @kiaralynn3838 @ateez-atiny380 @daceyena @bookswillfindyouaway

[breadedloafs]

FUCK YEAH WE’RE BACK BABY!!!! EEEK IM SO EXCITED TO SEE BOTH OF THEM KICK EVERYONE’S ASSES!!

Peppermint Tea 32 - All Blends 3

Holy shit its been a long time since I've updated this. I really hope you guys enjoy this chapter and be on the lookout for the next one in the next few days!

Summary! You meet Katakuri, and the boys are upset and make plans to get you back!

Peppermint Tea Masterlist -> HERE

You stare at Big Mom in horror. Wife? You’d heard about the Emporer before and her obsession with expanding her family, but never in a million years did you think that you would be up for the chopping block. The emperor cackles at the look you send her.

“Oh don’t look so down, princess. If you hadn’t disappeared all those years ago, we wouldn’t have had to drag you back here,” The woman hisses down at you, and you watch in disgust as you watch Charlotte pick up a plate of sweets and begin to scarf them down, talking with her mouth full of cake, “But it’s no matter. My sons tell me that you are pregnant, so any child that you have will be taken care of. That way, you can be free for my sweet Katakuri.”

You don’t like the way she says this as if the baby that grows inside of you is nothing but a burden to be thrown away and forgotten. You grit your teeth, and take a look at the man who is to be your “husband”. Despite his rather feral look and the sharp teeth, you can see poking out from between his lips, there is a softness in his gaze that tells you he isn’t exactly happy with the arrangement that his mother has made for him. You want to shout and argue, but you know that even if you did, nothing would change. No threats that you made would be taken seriously, not when you were in the middle of Big Mom’s territory.

Unbidden, your devil fruit activates, sending a chill through the room and making Sukuna grumble and growl from where he lies pressed against your chest. Hank whines and presses himself closer to your leg, and his support makes you feel a tiny bit better about your situation. You wish more than anything that your boys were here so that they could shield you away, and you would never have to look at this horrid woman again.

“Hmm, if anything, your being pregnant shows how fertile you are. It won’t be long before you are able to supply me with a whole new host of grandchildren!”

You grimace at the way the emperor so casually says this, as you were nothing but a broodmare to be used to make her family bigger. You clutch Sukuna tighter against your chest, pulling comfort from the way his claws dig into your flesh. The pain clears your head, and you ignore Big Mom as best you can as she rants and raves about how beautiful her grandchildren will be once she has them.

Finally, Katakuri seems to take pity on you and speaks up, his voice deep and muffled from behind his scarf, “I think she understands why she is here, mother. Let me take her to our rooms.”

Big Mom lets out a massive sigh, rolling her eyes before she makes a shoo motion, “Oh fine, then. Take away my fun.”

Katakuri grumbles something unintelligible and then stomps over to you. You crane your neck, hearing it pop as you look up at him. You meet his eyes, and then he crouches down, and you come face to face with him.

He is handsome up close, the edges of his mouth broken up by what looks like stitches, but his voice is soft when he speaks, “You have little legs. I will carry you if you wish?”

You lick your lips and shrug. If it would get you away from Big Mom quicker, then you weren't about to say no.

“Please?”

You watch him set his hand down, palm up, and carefully, you turn around and sit down, keeping Sukuna tucked close to your chest. His palm is big enough that Hank can climb up with you, though most of his shaggy body spills into your lap. You hang on tight to his sleeve when Katakuri stands and begins to leave the obvious throne room behind.

You try your best to memorize the twists and turns of the castle, but it proves impossible for you with how the inside dips and curves do not make any sense to your brain. Katakuri is silent all the way up until he makes it to his room, and he is careful as he sits you back down on the floor.

The two of you stare at one another, at a loss of words, until his voice fills the room, “You were to be my wife, but your parents denied my mother.”

You frown. That didn't sound correct. As much as Mihawk and Shanks had broken your trust, after that first call with the warlord after you had sent them away, you still felt like you could believe them. Mihawk had explained everything that he knew about the destruction of your home. He would not have omitted any details to you unless he truly did not know about them. Your chest aches, and you have to force the urge to burst into tears just thinking about the two men. You missed them so much. You wanted them here to steal you back and to get you and your baby to safety. You tune back in when the giant of a man keeps talking.

“Maybe you would have been happy with me if your parents had not disrespected my mother, but I can't see that you will never be happy here. Not when you have someone that you already love.”

You look at Katakuri in surprise, brows raised as your curl your free arm around your stomach. Hank, who had been silent other than his occasional growling at the men and woman who had escorted you to Big Mom, suddenly sat up, the big lug loping forward to sit in front of you, his tongue lolling out as he began to pant. You stare at him, brow pinched in thought. The dog has always been an excellent judge of character, and it makes you think that maybe Katakuri might be someone you can trust.

“I do, and they will be looking for me,” you tell him, and Katakuri nods like he already knows this.

And he did. The fourth son of Big Mom had done his research after Wiseman had made it known that you had been found. He had told his mother to leave you be, that they had already decimated your island, killed your family and subjects. The only ones left of the Nammu Isles were you and your brother, so it's not like either of you had much to offer the Charlotte family.

Unfortunately, she had scoffed and raved at him, rolling her eyes and stuffing her face, declaring that neither of you was useless. The Nammu Isles were known for their beauty, the string of islands, and the people who lived there. To be married into any of the families was to be considered an honor, for your children would retain the beauty that their parents harbored.

Katakuri had grumbled and backed down, not having wanted to argue with his mother, but seeing you now, belly swollen with child, and your eyes looking at him like you knew things that he didn't, made him think that his mother had bitten off more than she could chew.

He already knew that your lover was Red-Haired Shanks, one of the other four emperors of the sea. Katakuri had not thought it wise for his family to go steal you away from your home, but there was little he could do or say once his mother had an idea in her head. It is then that your words properly register in his mind, and he looks at you, tilting his head to the side.

“They?”

The temperature in the room drops several degrees, and he watches this tiny slip of a woman look at him in pity, but there is a mean grin that paints her lips.

“Yes, they,” you murmur, and Sukuna turns, glaring at Katakuri with oddly familiar golden eyes, “Red-Haired Shanks, and the warlord. Dracule Mihawk.”

-----

Mihawk and Perona sail straight to the New World. They arrive in half the time it would have usually taken, the ocean seeming to be on their side and aiding them in getting the two of them there swiftly. The warlord feels broken, his heart aching from the pain of having you taken and the knowledge that it was Shasks at fault.

He should have known that the redhead would never be able to keep his damn mouth shut. He never should have trusted him with you. Dracule should have demanded that Shanks leave you and your island alone, to never return even if it would have made you upset.

Maybe then Mihawk would have never felt compelled to tell you about his involvement. Maybe then you would have never sent him away in the first place, and none of this would have ever happened. He grits his teeth, rage flooding his chest only to be swiftly discarded into grief and disappointment. The warlord had trusted the other man, had opened up his heart, and told Shanks that he loved him not a week after Benn had rushed to them to tell them about you being abducted.

Shanks looks at him with wide eyes, standing before Mihawk after the warlord had hung up the transponder snail. The redhead swallowed harshly, the drunken stupor clearing from his eyes as he licked his lips.

“You... Did you really mean it?”

Mihawk opens his arms for the redhead, and Shanks falls into his chest. He wraps his arms around the younger man, lips pressing against his brow.

“I wouldn't have said it if I didn't mean it, Red.”

Mihawk forces the memory away, bowing forward to rest his elbows on the desk inside the ship and hold his face in his hands. Everything had been going so well for the three of you, and in the span of a month, it had all gone to absolutely shit.

They hadn't even gotten the chance to come and see you before the Big Mom pirates had shown up. Had been waiting for your call so that you could tell them that you were ready for them to come back home, to the island, to Hank and the other animals, to you.

Fuck. How had things gone so bad so quickly? Mihawk knew that the blame truly lay on both of them. Him for keeping your past from you, and Shanks for not knowing when to keep his big mouth shut for once. Dracule still feels so angry, so betrayed that the other man had given you a drunken accident or not. How was he ever supposed to forgive Shanks for this? How were they supposed to go back to how things were?

That's not even considering your brother. Tomura would be a problem in the future when they get you back. Your brother would never let Mihawk have you alone ever again, especially once he figures out that you are pregnant with their child.

“You know, if you had listened to me in the beginning, this probably wouldn't have happened.”

Mihawk sighs heavily at the sound of Perona's voice. He looks up to see her leaning in the doorway, arms crossed, and a scowl on her face. He feels bad enough over Shanks and his own blunder. He doesn't need the reminder.

“_ would still be on her island, and her home wouldn't have been destroyed. You didn't even go see her home with Shanks, Mihawk. I know you're mad at him, but it would have been the least you could do. He's just as upset she is gone as you are.”

Mihawk glares at her, hands clenching as he drops them to the table and shoves himself up, a snarl on his lips, “This wouldn't have happened if Shanks knew how to be responsible for once.”

Perona rolls her eyes, lips pursing, “Do you know how many times I've almost slipped up? How could Shanks have known that someone would recognize her name? It's not like he went around to every island on the Grand Line asking people if they knew who she was.”

He grits his teeth. Mihawk had already thought about that, but it was easier for him to blame Shanks for this than to completely blame himself, no matter how unfair it was.

“He's a fool,” Mihawk grumbles, and despite how much he wants to hang on, to cling onto that anger, the warlord begins to feel himself start to deflate. It used to be easy to cling to those feelings of negativity, but after the past months, with having Shanks back so close, and with you there to temper any hurt feelings, it was hard to stay upset.

Because at the end of the day, Mihawk still loved the redhead, even if Shanks had broken his promise. He hears Perona snort and stride across the deck, dropping into the chair across from him.

“A love-sick fool who needed you,” she grumbles, and Mihawk sighs heavily, pinching the bridge of his nose and giving her a look under the brim of his hat.

“You don't have to remind me, ghost girl, but the faster we get to Big Mom’s territory, the faster we can get _ back.”

Perona sighs and stands from her chair, rounding the desk and pulling her father figure in for a hug. Surprisingly, Mihawk doesn’t fight against her, so Perona tightens her hold, keeping her voice sure, “You’ll get her back. I know you will.”

-----

Shanks stares at the ruins of his home, heart in his throat, and hand clenched against his chest. So many memories, all gone with just a few words that came from his dumb mouth. Benn stands behind him, a silent pillar of support that the redhead appreciates. He clenches his eyes shut, teeth grit before he opens them up, and forces himself to step toward his home.

He is halfway up the path when a furry body blocks his way, and Shanks can't help but feel a shot of relief when Neal bleats at him, those beady eyes looking at him with recognition, and Shanks carefully reaches out, hoping to not get bit by the goat. Surprisingly, Neal butts his head forward and allows the redhead to pet him for a second before he grumbles and stalks off to his ruined pen where he stomps at the ground. He shakes his head and follows after the goat, frowning down at the foot imprints that dot your front yard.

He takes in your ruined gardens, heard breaking all over again when he looks at the destruction. You would be devastated to see this. All of your hard work from over the years gone in an instant. Shanks forces down that guilt that eats away at him and focuses instead on the rage that had begun to slowly simmer in his gut. Emperor or not, the second that Big Mom had heard that he was your lover, the woman should have dropped any kind of plans she had for you.

Shanks and his crew had held off Kaido from joining the battle at Marineford and won. It pissed him right the hell off that Big Mom thought that she could send out her family and drag you back to Whole Cake without thinking that Shanks wouldn't do anything about it.

Did the woman think that you were just some run-of-the-mill woman that he would drop within a couple of days? Well, if so. Charlotte had another thing coming. Shanks has to fight down his haki, lest it unravel, and send what remained of his home crashing down. He sucked in a deep breath, face set in a terrifying scowl as he walked through the open door.

Shanks pushes the door open, a grin on his face, “Oh honey, I'm home!”

He can hear you leave the kitchen, arm open just in time for you to slam into his chest, and a wide grin on your face as you stare up at him. Shanks laughs jovial, matching your grin as he tightens his grip around your waist and lifts you up, spinning you around in a circle.

“Welcome back, love,” you greet him, and Shanks will never tire of hearing you call him that. He dips and presses his lips to your own. The kiss chaste but full of affection, “How was your trip?”

He walks past the living room, trailing his hand over the blackened wood as the rage builds and builds inside of him until Shanks feels like he might explode. He eases through the kitchen and looks down when his foot kicks something. He bends, picking up the warped bowl, the name Hank lovingly painted on the side of it. Carefully, he puts it back down and moves on.

There is hardly anything that is salvageable, but Shanks would make damn sure that he would store away and preserve anything that he found. You deserved that much. The books and record player that Mihawk had given you are melted. The maps along the far wall of the living room are nothing but ash that now coats everything in the room.

Shanks stops just outside the bedroom, heart in his throat before he pushes the door open and walks inside. This room, since the door was shut, had been preserved much better than the rest of your home. He looks at your bed and swallows dryly when he sees that it is covered in an assortment of his and Mihawk's clothing. He wonders how large you've grown in the time the three of you have been separated. You must have started to wear their clothes the larger your belly became, and the mental image of his shirt streatching over your stomach makes a heat pool unbidden in his gut.

But he shoves the feeling away for now. There would be time for that later, once Shanks was able to piece his family back together. With a sigh, he sits on the bed, bending at the waist and holding his face in his hand. He pushes past the anguish that wants to choke him and makes himself think.

He would sail straight to Whole Cake, and if Big Mom and her family did not give you back to him, then he would destroy them. There was a reason why no one could unseat him from his emperor status. Red-Haired Shanks and his crew were not ones to cross, so he would show the other emperor what it meant to cross him. He could only hope that you would be okay until he got there, and if you weren’t? The entire world would feel his fury.

With that decision cemented in his mind, Shanks stands from the bed, then scoops to grab your favorite shirt that he knows came from him. He would dress you in his clothes once more when he got you back, would find you before Mihawk could, and present you to the warlord and beg both of you for forgiveness. Shanks was not one to give up, so he would grovel and plead at your feet until you gave in.

Shanks takes one last look around before he leaves the house, meeting Benn back outside where he is watching Neal. His first mate looks up at him when Shanks steps to his side, “Ready to go?”

The redhead nods, lips tugging into a frown when he spots the goat and the three chickens that mill around his hooves, “He’s not going to like it, but we aren’t leaving him here.”

Benn huffs a laugh, “Come on, I’ll help you wrestle him on board.”

-----

Tomura sets sail not long after Mihawk leaves the island. He isn't about to wait around for the redhead, and thankfully, they've not been here long enough for many of his crew to disembark. He gathers the ones who followed him on shore up and orders them to meet him on board, barking commands to get them underway and back to the New World. They would take the same route as last time and hopefully catch up to the warlord before he made it to Whole Cake.

It still pisses him off that the two men had found your island, but it's not like Tomura had been there to stop them. You probably trusted the other men more than you would ever trust him, your own brother, and the thought fills him with guilt.

He had been the one to leave you behind, after all. Maybe if he had stayed with you, had been the big brother that you had always admired and loved, then none of this would have happened. He sighs and runs a hand through his white hair, his brow pulled tight in a scowl. There was no point in thinking about what-ifs, however. Tomura had lost his chance to see you grow up and get to know you when he left you here, but he would help save you, and he would know his little sister again.

The navy would be pissed that he was going off orders, but he didn’t care. Delemur had joined the military to keep himself safe, away from Big Mom and her hoard of children. But he would take on the emperor herself if that was what it took to get you away from them, you were the most important thing to Tomura, and he wouldn’t let anyone stand in the way of that.

@writingmysanity @djbumblebee @goth-mami-writer @myradiaz @fluffybunnyu @bookandstar @foggyturtleknightangel @browneyedhufflepuff @anastasiyax @jaguarthecat @atricksterwithwings @black-swan-blog27 @breadedloafs @enpvrirnce @gottalovethefandom @mfreedomstuff @caniseethefourthsword @olenoname

[breadedloafs]

EEEK IM SO EXCITEDDDDD🥳🥳🥳 finals are over and i’m finally free!! i’m heading back home tmr, not excited for the train but i get to play video games and i get to see my little puppy🥰

A Peppermint Tea update!

So. I just want to make it known that while I am slowly working on fixing my older chapters, I have started on the next one, finally! I went through and reread the last like 12 chapters and started to remember everything that I wanted to do to finish off Peppermint Tea. It may seem a little rushed, but I am going to try my best to finish this monster of a fic in the next week or two, so keep a look out for updates! Here is a little sneak peek of this coming chapter!

*note* I still have yet to properly meet Katakuri and the Big Mom pirates, so I apologize if they're out of character!*

He already knew that your lover was Red-Haired Shanks, one of the other four emperors of the sea. Katakuri had not thought it wise for his family to go steal you away from your home, but there was little he could do or say once his mother had an idea in her head. It is then that your words properly register in his mind, and he looks at you, tilting his head to the side.

“They?”

The temperature in the room drops several degrees, and he watches this tiny slip of a woman look at him in pity, but there is a mean grin that paints her lips.

“Yes, they,” you murmur, and Sukuna turns, glaring at Katakuri with oddly familiar golden eyes, “Red-Haired Shanks, and the warlord. Dracule Mihawk.”

Tag list! Hope you guys don't mind still!

Pep Tea Masterlist -> HERE

@writingmysanity @djbumblebee @goth-mami-writer @myradiaz @fluffybunnyu @bookandstar @foggyturtleknightangel @browneyedhufflepuff @anastasiyax @jaguarthecat @atricksterwithwings @black-swan-blog27 @breadedloafs @enpvrirnce @gottalovethefandom

[breadedloafs]

finished my last exam yesterday and i wake up to an update by one of my favssssss🫶🫶🫶🫶 today is going to be good!!! innie being so possessive is so cuteeeee (tbh i probably would’ve tried petting their ears too so fluffyyy!!)

Give Me Your TMI~ Chapter 2

₊˚⊹ᰔ Pairing; Yang Jeongin x Fem!reader, Stray kids x Fem!reader

₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ Summary; In a world where Humans and Hybrids should be living as equals, Hybrids are still viewed as being closer to their animalistic side than their humanistic. Deep in the woods lives a band of misfit hybrids who reject these societal views and keep to themselves, choosing to live away from humans. What happens when the youngest of this rogue group meets a lost Human girl, befriending her after an incident where he must rely on her for help?

₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ Warnings; hybrid!au, female!reader, angst, mild violence, mentions of sexual harassment/assault and discrimination, she/her pronouns used for reader, this is very loosely based off the overall themes/tones of the manga and anime fruits basket~

This chapter especially has mentions of attempted murder and a gun (nothing gory or descriptive), if that is something that triggers you please proceed with caution

Darkness. Everything was wrapped in a complete and total darkness.

You had been staggering all morning that day, your hunger finally having caught up with you as you had run out of food weeks ago and were relying on water from the river and what few plants you could confidently identify as edible to keep going.

As you felt your body weakening significantly you attempted to make your way into your tent to get some rest, stupidly believing yourself to just be tired. When your body hit the hard and muddy ground you barely felt a thing, already too far gone to feel anything but the cold that had settled deep in your bones.

So this was it, you were finally going to die. Bitterly you thought to yourself that this is what he had wanted, that he would be winning in the end after all. You weren’t sure how much time had past but through the haze of memories flooding your mind in what you assumed were your last moments here on earth, the vision of a strong yet somehow lithe body holding you, protecting you, came into view. He was beautiful, stunning even. There seemed to be a hazy glow around him, an aura you could only describe as angelic. That must be it- he was the angel meant to guide you into the afterlife. You felt at peace with such a kind soul watching over you, faintly making out a whisper of his name. “J-Jeongin?” You repeated after a while, feeling his attention solely on you. This felt nice, safe. You allowed yourself to bask in this embrace as you drifted back into the darkness once more.

Warmth is what brought you back to the land of the living, wrapped around you and almost too warm. Your eyelids fluttered open slowly and you began taking in your surroundings as your vision slowly came into focus. Where am I? You thought to yourself. A small room, the blinds were closed but you could tell from the sound that it was still raining outside, a heavy downpour at that. The lamp on the bedside table was on, and a light weight rested on your chest atop the quilt that covered you up to your neck. You looked down at what it could be laying on top of you, only to be met with the sight of a sleeping fox curling up on the lower part of your chest where your stomach began.

“Mr. Fox?” You said, voice hoarse from not using it for however long you didn’t know. At the sound of your voice the creature atop of you stirred, soft brown eyes looking back at you before he seemed to register that you were awake. Silently he rose, hopping down from the bed and making his way out of the room causing you to sit up and try to follow.

You groaned, wincing a bit at your stiff muscles but managed to sit up straight, the blankets falling to pool at your waist and it was then that you noticed you were wearing clothes that didn’t belong to you. “What-?”

Confusion set in, but then you realized that maybe this was the home of whoever Mr. Fox belonged to. Of course it made sense that such a smart and seemingly domesticated fox was a pet to someone since wild animals didn’t typically respond to humans the way he had. You were almost correct, but also so wrong. “Be careful, please. Your body is still very weak.”

In came Jeongin, your angel, causing you to gasp. “You’re real?!” Was the first thing out of your mouth, though as soon as the words left your lips you clasped both hands over your mouth as an embarrassed flush reached your cheeks. The boy laughed, moving closer to the bed. “Yes, I’m real..” You couldn’t help but giggle and slowly let your hands fall into your lap. “I only meant that- well I thought I had only dreamed you up…I thought I was dying and you were my guardian angel.” The words caused Jeongin to blush, looking away and that was when you noticed the pair of fluffy red triangles tipped with black atop his head and the even fluffier tail behind him. “Oh- Jeongin you’re-“ He froze, suddenly hesitant at your reaction

“A hybrid.”

“Mr. Fox-“

Both of you responded at the same time. He couldn’t help but smile, of course you would point out that he was your Fox friend before even thinking of him as anything else. “Yeah, I’m Mr. Fox…but please call my Jeongin?” You nodded, still taking in his beautiful face as you continued to blush. “Mhm, yeah I can do that- Jeongin…” The hybrid had to keep himself from chirping at the sound of his name on your lips, almost as addictive as your giggle. “Um- how did I get here? And where am I exactly?”

The hybrid looks a bit bashful, causing you to hold back from cooing at how adorable he looks with a soft blush on his cheeks. “Well when I found you lying there unconscious I panicked and so I brought you um…t-to my home so we could help you.” Oh, so this was his home. You smiled softly as you looked around, taking it in now with clearer vision. But wait- his wording threw you off a bit, causing you to tilt your head curiously. “We? What do you mean-“ Before you could finish your question there was a light knock at the door.

“Ayen-ah? I have some more broth for our patient~” At the sound of a newcomer you drew your legs up to your chest, ignoring the ache in your muscles as you wrapped your arms around them protectively. “Oh- she’s awake! Well hello to you, it’s nice to see you’re conscious.” The man had soft brown cat ears atop his head and his sleek tail was whipping behind him slowly as a soft smile teased at the corners of his mouth. “I’m Minho, I’ve been the one looking after you while you rested.” You nodded slowly, taking in his appearance as he set a tray with a bowl and glass of water on the bedside table before taking a seat on the edge of the bed closest to you. Goodness, he was gorgeous as well. You thought to yourself how two men could be so beautiful as Minho took the glass of water in his hand.

“Do you think you could drink something for me, pretty? I’m sure your throat is terribly dry after being out cold for three days.” Your eyes widened comically as you looked between the two hybrids. “T-Two days?! I was asleep that long?…”

Jeongin nodded, rubbing the back of his neck. “Yeah…I was beginning to worry you wouldn’t ever wake up-“ Your heart softened as the concern in his voice, giving him a sad smile as Minho carefully handed the glass to you. “Careful, just take small sips yeah? Innie here was so worried he didn’t leave your side until I forced him to go take a bath to calm down.” You couldn’t help but giggle at the thought, taking a few hesitant sips of water as instructed.

While you sat and finished a little over half of the contents of your cup, both hybrids filled you in on everything you had missed from the time Jeongin found you up until that morning when you woke up. It was still early, yet with the cloudy skies and rain pouring down you could have been fooled into thinking it was the dead of night. “It’s been raining ever since that day…we tried so hard to keep things warm for you in hopes it would help you wake up sooner-“ You nodded, watching as Minho took the bowl of broth into his hands and began moving a spoonful towards you. “Oh no I can feed myself-“ you started to say but the cat hybrid shook his head. “You’re still weak. Don’t think I didn’t see your hands shaking as you held that glass. Now open.” Seeing there was no room to argue with him, you parted your lips slowly and allowed Minho to feed you the broth carefully and slowly one spoonful at a time.

Once you had your fill, shaking your head as he attempted to continue to feed you, he set the bowl down and the sound of footsteps outside caused you to flinch. “Um- pardon me asking but…how many people live here?” Just then the door opened to reveal a second cat hybrid with soft fluffy tanned ears and a matching tail as well as a hybrid you couldn’t quite classify with soft brown ears and slightly fluffy brown tail almost like a squirrel but not quite. “Ji, Lix, our pretty has finally woken up.” Minho smirked to the other hybrids, his words causing Jeongin to growl slightly before laying himself across you like he had been earlier though in this form his weight against your chest caused you to let out a little squeak.

His warm body pressed against yours, with his head resting against your chest wasn’t unwelcome and you gently began carding your fingers through his slightly curly locks just like you would have in his fox form. “Jeez, possessive much? Come on Ayen we’ve been waiting to meet her for sooo long!” The hybrid you couldn’t classify said, flopping down on the bed beside you and curling up comfortably. You giggled as you observed him, causing Jeongin to blush at the sound he loved so much and bury his face into your shoulder. “And who might you be?” Your voice was soft, airy, and it caused the hybrid to look up at you in awe with big round brown eyes. “I’m Jisung!” Minho could see you eyeing him quizzically and seemed to guess what you were trying to figure out. “He’s a chipmunk hybrid. I know there aren’t many owned by humans so you’ve probably never seen one before.” Jisung sat up on his elbows, seemingly enamored as he took in your appearance closely. “Don’t worry if you haven’t- I’ve never seen a human before so we’re even.”

You shrugged slightly, looking around at the four of them before answering. “Actually I’ve never seen a hybrid before at all…so this is all kinda new to me-“ At that the four hybrids gawked, not sure how to respond but in the end it was the cat hybrid who had entered with Jisung who spoke up. “Like- never at all? Never ever?” You shook your head, giving them a shy smile. “Nope- I am not exactly from a high class background and my family kept me pretty sheltered so I wasn’t allowed to go out much…I mean I know of them- heard of them. Just never met one before.” The second cat hybrid sat at the end of the bed with his legs folded, hands braced on his calves as he leaned forward to get a better look at you. “Well I’m Felix! It’s nice to meet you-“

Four sets of eyes looked at you expectantly, clearly waiting for you to say your name eagerly. “Oh gosh I haven’t properly introduced myself- I’m y/n.” Jeongin gasped a bit, lifting his head to rest his chin against your chest and fully meet your eyes. “That’s so lovely, pretty-“ you giggled again, trying to hide your blush but no matter where you turned there was a hybrid watching you carefully. “We’ve been calling you pretty this whole time because that’s what our innie referred to you as.” Minho teased, pinching the youngest’s cheek earning him a little yip in distaste for the action. “Oh- um, that’s fine if that’s what’s more comfortable for you? I’ve never had a nickname before-“

Jeongin blushed at your words, mumbling to himself that only he should get to call you that but the words were so soft they couldn’t reach your ears. However, the other hybrids heard him loud and clear and gave each other a smirk of acknowledgment. “Pretty it is then, it suits you.” Jisung said, nodding as he curled back up beside you. “Thank you- and thank you all for taking such good care of me…I’d probably be dead if it weren’t for your help.”

At the mention of your previous state the hybrids all gave each other a knowing look before Jeongin slowly sat up at the end of the bed beside Felix. “I couldn’t ever ask before because I was only around you in my fox form…but what are you doing all the way out here? There aren’t any other houses around for miles and the closest town is all the way at the bottom of the mountain…” His voice was soft, concern and curiosity laced within his words and your chest began to feel tight. “I-I…My husband-“ you started, tears welling in your eyes. At the mention of a husband Jeongin frowned, tilting his head as he remembered the small camp you seemed to inhabit alone. “He left me here…we- gosh this is so humiliating.” You hid your face behind your hands, trying to will your tears away as Minho gently began rubbing circles on your back. “It’s okay, take your time…we are here to listen, not judge.”

At the kind gesture, and the worried yet what faces watching you carefully, you took a deep and shaky breath. “We had just gotten married, something arranged by our parents, and this was supposed to be our honeymoon.” Your gaze fell to your lap as you began to play nervously with the edge of the quilt still pooled at your waist. “But I guess he didn’t really want to marry me, as if I had a choice in the matter myself- as I was busy setting up the inside of the tent he just…drove off.” The hybrids all gasped, practically sitting on the edge of their seats as they waited for you to continue. “I didn’t understand why at first….but then as I was looking around to see if he left any clues to why he just…left- he wanted me dead.” Minho frowned, brow furrowing as he looked into your eyes with a growing mountain of questions though he only asked one. “How did you know he wanted you dead? Surely he could have just gone to get something from town and planned to come back.”

You shook your head at the cat and sighed raggedly, hands falling limp in your lap before forming tight fists. “He left me a pistol and a note saying that he brought me up here to kill me, that he didn’t and couldn’t love me but that he chickened out and hoped that I would finish the job for him.”

Jaws dropped, completely and utterly shocked by the revelation, Jisung immediately wrapped his arms tightly around you and buried his face in the crook of your neck as you felt the dampness of his tears soak the collar of the shirt you wore, which you briefly wondered who it originally belonged to. “That’s so cruel! How could he even do something like that to his wife?!” You laughed bitterly, hands coming to caress the hybrids hair softly. “Thats why I was walking around the woods that day I met Jeongin for the first time…I was trying to see if there was anyone living in the area that could help me and maybe give me a ride back into town…”

The room fell into silence for a moment, the only sound being the rain fall outside and the quiet whimpers from a still crying Jisung and now a tearful Felix before he too crawled closer to wrap you both in his embrace. “Guys it’s fine- I’m…I decided that day that I was going to live, even if just to spite him. Though I guess I did a pretty poor job of that considering I almost died of starvation barely two months in-“

Your story explained so much, but still left questions. Why an arranged marriage in these times? Why were you so sheltered to the point that you weren’t allowed out side often enough to have ever seen a hybrid? These questions hung heavy in the air but the group didn’t want to push too deep and cause you any more distress as you were still healing.

“Well I’m glad our innie here found you. Things could have been much worse if not for him.” Minho lightly praised their youngest, reaching over to ruffle his hair and effectively bring him out of the daze he had been in ever since learning of your failed nuptials. “I owed you, you know….you saved my life and- and I knew I could trust you.” His words were soft, but firm in the belief he had for your friendship causing your heart to flutter. “Innie…that’s such a cute nickname.” Is what left your lips. You said it without thinking, meaning to have kept it to yourself but now the fox was blushing so deeply he had to hide his face behind his hands.

As Minho left the room, door closing shut behind him, a strong hand reached out and took hold of his wrist. “Minho.” Chan’s voice was low, obviously trying not to alert the younger hybrids in the room that he had been listening in to your story the whole time. “I know, she’s awake now…once I’m confident she isn’t so weak I’ll have Jeongin bring her back to where he found her.” The oldest shook his head firmly, wolf ears shaking twitching as his gaze fell to the floor. “No she- she can stay for now. But she better not do anything to make me regret that decision.” Minho smiled softly, eyeing the head of their little family with fondness. “Her story got to you, didn’t it? Poor thing didn’t have a chance out there if it wasn’t for our little fox, hm.” Chan sighed, nodding in agreement before letting go of the cat hybrids wrist as he began walking down the hall to his own room. “I still don’t trust her- but I’m not so cruel as to send her to her death after hearing all that.”

Minho chuckled as he made his way towards the kitchen to clean up and prepare some more substantial food for you to try and get your energy back. This was going to be interesting, considering not all the members of their family were so forgiving of humans as he was. He didn’t blame them, of course, with the tainted history each of them had varying in levels of severity and having caused all of them to end up here. Their own little haven, safe from a society that condemned them and treated them as nothing more than objects and pets. You were different though, he could tell. Minho knew from experience that not all humans were bad, and he felt in his bones just like Jeongin that you could be trusted. This would be good for them, he thought, maybe help some break down walls and work through their pasts in ways they never could on their own.

author’s note; waaahhh! Thank you so so much for all the love I’ve received on the first chapter of this series~ it genuinely means so so much to me hearing all your kind words and feedback on a project I’ve been so excited to work on! How are we feeling after that reader lore drop huh? There is still more to come as I not-so-subtly hinted but all in due time!! Also as I do with all of my fics reader has a lil nickname, this one being Pretty~ again I hope you all enjoy! I know this chapter is significantly shorter than the last but I didn’t want to add too much and make it feel like it was going all over the place just for the sake of making it match the length of the first post- anyways I’m gonna stop rambling now hehe ᕱᕱ₊˚⊹♡

taglist; (pink users means I couldn’t tag) @coastinglove @estella-novella @chancloud8 @skzswife @motheraiya55 @zofia515 @skybluelixie @breadedloafs @inaribu00 @silly250 @royal-shinigami @thatgirlangelb @bby-boo4u @emmxxsworld @vampkittenb82 @h0rnyp0t @alisonyus @im-sinking-in-mud @ihrtlix @mrs-hwangh @danixiulin @bookswillfindyouaway @daceyena @kiaralynn3838

[breadedloafs]

so cuteeeeee🥰🥰 i’m currently finishing up my finals(still have 2 exams🫠) so this was nice to read during my break between studying

Give Me Your TMI ~ Chapter 1

₊˚⊹ᰔ Pairing; Yang Jeongin x Fem!reader, Stray kids x Fem!reader

₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ Summary; In a world where Humans and Hybrids should be living as equals, Hybrids are still viewed as being closer to their animalistic side than their humanistic. Deep in the woods lives a band of misfit hybrids who reject these societal views and keep to themselves, choosing to live away from humans. What happens when the youngest of this rogue group meets a lost Human girl, befriending her after an incident where he must rely on her for help?

₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ ₊˚⊹ᰔ Warnings; hybrid!au, female!reader, angst, mild violence, mentions of sexual harassment/assault and discrimination, mentions of starvation (not purposeful but due to lack of food), she/her pronouns used for reader, this is very loosely based off the overall themes/tones of the manga and anime fruits basket~

The afternoon sunlight shown through the trees, the late summer breeze blowing gently through his fur as Jeongin rushed through the dense wooded area after the scent of an intruder in their territory. He first caught a wiff of the human wandering in their forest while doing his routine patrol of the area, ears standing up straight as he listened for any noise to indicate where they may be. Once he locked onto the scent better he took off immediately, not giving a second thought to go back and alert the others before jumping into action.

After running for what felt like forever he finally caught up to the source of the foreign smell. Through the trees the fox hybrid could see a girl, looking far too out of place in the large wooded area in a light blue sundress and white socks with lace trim peeking above the tops of her sneakers. Jeongin eyed her curiously from afar, watching as she stumbled her way over fallen branches and briar bushes. She looked hopelessly lost and when she finally turned so that he was able to see her face he could make out the faint traces of tears reflected in the sunlight.

Pretty, he thought, smiling to himself in his head as he continued to watch her struggle for a moment before shaking himself out of his thoughts and making his presence known by stepping out into her view. The poor girl jumped back at the sight of him before freezing completely, eyes wide with fear as she locked eyes with the seemingly normal fox in front of her. “Shit- oh god what do I do? Do I back away slowly or make myself look big and loud?” She wondered aloud, causing the fox to chirp with amusement. Silly girl, that’s for a bear, he thought to himself before stepping forward and letting out a small trill from the back of his throat. “O-Okay, fuck- do I run? Oh god…please don’t hurt me-“ She whimpered, taking a hesitant step backwards. Taking pity on the pretty girl Jeongin nodded his head towards the left, slowly turning to face that direction before looking behind him to see if she understood what he wanted of her.

Cautiously, she tilted her head before speaking up. “Do you want me to follow you?” She asked causing the fox to let out another chirp and turn back to begin walking in the direction he wanted her to go. Silently she followed, trying to both watch her footing to not trip while also keeping an eye on him so she didn’t lose him. Eventually Jeongin came to a stop at the end of the tree line, and if she hadn’t looked back up in time she may have bumped into his tail not having realized just how close she had gotten to the beautiful creature. “Oh- sorry…where did you…” Before she could finish her question, the hybrid dashed off further into the trees leaving her standing all alone at the edge of the forest. “Huh?” She turned back to where the fox had been just moments before and saw that he had lead her to a long dirt road. She wasn’t sure where it lead, but she was thankful to be in some sort of clearing as it would be much easier to traverse than the dense woods she had been lost in. “Thank you Mr. Fox!” She shouted back into the trees before stepping out onto the road and beginning to maker her way to wherever it would lead.

At her thanks, Jeongin felt pride swell in his chest and with a little nod in her direction, though she wouldn’t be able to see him, he began making his way back home.

Once back at the cabin, Jeongin shifted into his human form, naked as the day he was born before picking up his clothes from where he left them before his patrol at the edge of the clearing that was their home. “Ayen! How did your patrol go?” Seungmin asked cheerfully as he made his way towards the other hybrid from where he had been working in the garden. His velvety brown ears flopped lightly as he jogged up towards the younger, tail wagging lightly behind him until he got close enough to smell the scent of a human on him. “Jeongin? Why do you smell like a human?” He questioned, fear evident in his face as he looked over the fox hybrid carefully for any injuries.

“Hyung it’s nothing, I’m alright. But there was a girl in our woods.” He said the last bit cautiously, though he was attempting for a nonchalant tone. “A girl?!” The beagle hybrid screeched, eyes going wide. “Yeah, a girl. She was lost or something- not a threat. I lead her back to the road.” Seungmin shook his head, arms crossing over his chest. “How do you know she’s not a threat? What was she even doing all the way out here? We are like- miles and miles away from the nearest town and there are no other houses in the area for her to be able to walk all the way here to get lost in the first place.”

The fox scoffed, pushing past the older hybrid on his way towards the house once fully dressed. “Calm down, hyung. Trust me she was more scared of me. Thought I was a regular old fox, we’re fine.” The puppy didn’t back down, though his tone shifted as a smirk broke out on his face. “She was cute, wasn’t she.” Jeongin froze mid step, not daring to look behind him or else his face would give it away. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” The older laughed, walking towards the younger slowly at first. “I don’t hear you denying it.” And with that the beagle took off in a sprint towards the cabin. “GUYS! INNIE HAS A GIIIRRLLLFRIEND!!!” He shouted, letting out a bark to alert the others.

With eyes gone wide, the younger hybrid took off after him towards the house. “Seungmin stop! It’s not- I was just getting her out of our woods!!” He cursed under his breath as he finally reached the front steps of the porch where Seungmin was now standing beside a very disappointed looking wolf hybrid.

Chan stood with arms crossed over his chest, large black ears standing tall at the top of his head and tail flicking with his displeasure. “Jeongin, care to explain?” Seungmin wore a triumphant smirk, chest puffed up as he looked at the younger from his place beside the oldest. “I- when I was doing my patrol I smelled a human, so I went to see where it was coming from…” Chan frowned, raising an eyebrow at the youngest member of their little family. “Without telling any of us first?” The fox pouted, looking away as he felt the piercing gaze of the older hybrid to be too much to look at directly. “I got ahead of myself, I know…I’m sorry. But she’s gone now!” “She?”

Jeongin gulped, throat feeling a bit tight at being put in the hot seat like this. “It was just some girl, she was clearly lost. She wasn’t even dressed like she was ready to be in the woods and she had- she was crying-“ he tried to defend his actions, hands balled into fists at his sides. “You risked getting caught, getting us all caught, because a girl was crying?” Chan huffed and Seungmin rolled his eyes. “I couldn’t just leave her there! What if she got too close and found the house? Found all of us?” The younger pleaded, finally looking up to meet his eyes. “I stayed in my fox form the whole time- she didn’t even know I was a hybrid. She probably thought I was gonna eat her or something…but she’s gone, I lead her back to the road so she can go home.”

Chan stood in silence for a moment, watching the youngest carefully before nodding his head. “Alright, I’ll let it slide this time. But if this ever happens again you tell us immediately. Got it?” Jeongin nodded, his fluffy red tail swaying slowly and his ears pressed flat to his head sorrowfully. “Yes, hyung…”

It had been two weeks since the first time he saw her, doing his normal patrol of their territory. The pretty girl in the blue dress had become a distant memory in the back of his mind as he hadn’t seen or smelled any trace of her since. As he walked around the forest he began to notice something different, little strips of what looked to be fabric and ribbon tied to trees roughly every ten to fifteen feet.

Jeongin was in his fox form, as he always was during patrol, so the markers were a few feet high from his head. As he was inspecting the fabric his ears twitched at the sound of a twig snapping not too far away and that familiar scent was nearby. She was back. The hybrid followed the scent until he caught sight of her, this time dressed in a pair of tan shorts that stopped a little higher than her mid thigh and a light pink top with little daisies embroidered all over it. He stood and admired her from a far for a moment, watching as she tied a small ribbon around the thinner trunk of a pine tree before beginning to move onward. So that was who was behind the strange markers, what was she doing? He wondered to himself before following after her with a little chirp to get her attention.

The girl startled, hand held to her chest when she turned to see it was just him. “Oh, Mr. fox it’s just you-“ a giggle left her lips and Jeongin thought briefly that it was one of the most lovely sounds he had ever heard before shifting his attention to the question of why she was back in their forest. Assuming she was lost again, the fox nodded once again for her to follow him and seemingly without question she did just that. As the two walked, the girl began to speak softly. He wasn’t sure if she was just speaking to herself at first until she addressed him directly. “What do you think, Mr. fox?” Shit, he hadn’t been paying attention to her words. Jeongin nodded regardless, not like he could give anything more of a response in this form anyways so she didn’t need to know he hadn’t been listening. The smile that small gesture brought to her face caused the hybrid to falter a bit in his step and almost trip over his front paws.

Once he had lead her back to the edge of the forest where the same dirt road was from the last time he had seen her, the fox this time stayed there to watch and make sure she left.

He wasn’t sure why she was there, how she got there, of why she was tying things to the trees, but he didn’t want her to get caught by any of the others who most likely wouldn’t be as kind to her as he was. As he stood waiting for her to leave, she suddenly crouched down to his level and began reaching out her hand towards him.

Panic set in and his fur stood on end. Just before she could make contact with his fur the fox pounced, knocking the girl onto her back on the forest floor. Jeongin growled, teeth bared at her and his ears flat to his head as he stood on her torso to keep her down.

As soon as he had growled the girl let out a scream, tears flowing from her eyes as she began to sob. “P-Please don’t hurt me-“ she begged, though to her this was just some normal fox who couldn’t understand her cries. Luckily for her this was no normal fox, and the sight of her tears caused the hybrid to freeze up before quickly pulling away and darting through the woods.

He couldn’t believe himself, almost hurting her like that. She wasn’t a threat, or at least it didn’t seem like it. At the feeling of hatred towards such an animalistic act he felt himself shifting into his human form while the echoing of her cries could still be heard for a moment until he finally broke through into the clearing. Thankfully no one was around to see him as he fell to the ground as sobs of his own slipped out though he tried to fight them, his heart racing and his stomach turning causing him to feel ill. Lashing out like that at just the proximity, he was only proving the humans right that hybrids were no better than any regular animal. Animalistic, wild, feral- words he had been called before echoed in his mind causing him to scream to try and drown them out.

Jeongin hadn’t realized he was screaming until his throat began to feel sore and Hyunjin was running from the house with Felix and Changbin close behind. The ferret hybrid’s strong arms wrapped around him, pulling their youngest to his chest as he began rocking him carefully. “Innie, baby it’s okay. You’re safe.” Hyunjin spoke softly, nuzzling his cheek into the fox hybrid’s hair causing his ears to twitch and flatten to his head as he slowly calmed down. “What happened, ayen?” Changbin asked from over the ferret’s shoulder.

“The- the girl…she was in the woods again-“ the three older hybrid’s eyes went wide but before they could say anything Jeongin continued.

“I know Chan hyung said to tell him if I saw her again or the next time a human was in the forest but- but I don’t know-“ he was still trying to catch his breath, still clinging to the older hybrid who held him close. “I don’t think she’s a threat- she’s so…odd- but she tried to pet me and I almost attacked her.” He began crying again without realizing it, much softer this time. “I’m no better than the animal they said I was-“ he said softly, hiding his face in Hyunjin’s shoulder as Felix came to wrap his arms around him from his other side. “Please don’t tell Chan hyung- I don’t want to upset him I didn’t mean to it just happened so fast and I wanted to make sure she wasn’t lost anymore. She seems a little clumsy-“

Felix cooed at the fox and pet his hair gently. “We won’t tell Chris, Innie…but please next time come get us. Even if you don’t think she’s a threat, we don’t want something like this to happen again.” The younger nodded, staying in their arms for a while longer before allowing the others to lead him inside and help him clean up where branches and briars had scratched his skin from running through the woods completely undressed after shifting.

While sitting in the bath, Felix kneeling beside him and helping clean the small wounds he had procured, Jeongin could see her face washed in fear in the back of his mind and couldn’t seem to shake the feeling of guilt that surrounded him and threatened to swallow him whole as he heard her cries clear as day still even now miles from where he left her laying on the forest floor. He hoped she was okay.

It had been another two weeks since he had almost attacked the lost girl in their woods and Jeongin had been hesitant to go alone on patrol ever since, always having one of his hyungs accompany him whenever he had to go out into the woods. After a while he began to relax, not having run into her in so long made him feel he had successfully scared her away from ever entering the woods again.

Feeling this new sense of peace, he finally felt like it was okay to go on patrols alone again and after a long day of running around the dense forest Jeongin felt as if he could use a drink. The fox hybrid made his way to the river not far from the cabin, the smell of the damp earth and the sound of running water letting him know he was almost there.

Just as he got to the tree line however, there she was deep in the water.

She was submerged up to her shoulders but from the bare skin he could see and the neatly folded stack of clothes sitting on a nearby rock, the hybrid could only assume the girl before him was naked beneath the slow roll of the rivers stream. His thoughts were confirmed as not long after he had arrived she slowly rose from the water and the late afternoon sunlight hit her glistening skin. If he was not in his fox form Jeongin’s jaw would have been dropped comically wide as he couldn’t tear his eyes away from the soft curves of her body as she made her way back to the shore.

He had never seen a feminine body before, having been kept separate from the female hybrids at the center he was raised and never having had an owner let alone a female one. Her body fascinated him, but also lit a fire inside his chest that would have caused a bright blush to spread across his cheeks if he were not in his fox form.

As she made her way back to her clothes, the girl picked up a dark colored towel and began to dry her hair until she suddenly caught sight of where Jeongin was hiding in the tree line. “Mr. Fox?” She asked cautiously, though there was no fear in her tone or expression, only curiosity. As if to answer her, Jeongin slowly stepped forward from the trees and made himself known fully, sitting down by the rock where her clothes remained in the perfectly folded stack.

A soft smile spread across her lips before she resumed drying off her hair before moving to the rest of her body. “I’m sorry I scared you the other day.” She said after she set the towel back down on the rock, starting to get dressed carefully. She’s apologizing? For scaring him? The hybrid tilted his head curiously as he watched her, letting out a little whimpering sound as he tried to show his confusion. He was sure it should be him who was apologizing for scaring her. “I know you probably don’t see a lot of people all the way out here…I was just- you have been so sweet to me so I wanted to thank you some how.” She tried to explain, as if a wild fox could understand her words. Thats all he was to her, after all. There was no way she would know he was a hybrid and could understand everything she said to him, still she continued. “I never had any kind of pets but my- um…a friend of mine had a dog once and he always liked to be pet when he did good.” He let out a little chirp at the fact that she assumed a wild animal would accept the same affection a house pet would. Her hesitance in her choice of words caused Jeongin to wonder what it was she was originally going to say, but he would have to take whatever information she would give him as there was no way he could reveal his status as a hybrid to her.

Now fully dressed, the girl took a seat on the rock and looked off to the water. He took in her appearance again, how peaceful she looked before he noticed the twinge of sadness in her eyes. Before he was even processing his movements, Jeongin was climbing onto the rock beside her and laying down at her side. At the feeling of soft fur brushing against her bare thigh she startled a bit, relaxing when she looked down to see he was curled up peacefully at her side. “Mr. fox…c-could I?” She spoke softly, hesitantly lifting her hand though she kept it to herself until he gave indication that her touch was allowed.

Silently, the hybrid lifted his head until the palm of her hand was pressed lightly against the spot between his ears.

There it was again, that giggle that was music to his ears. As the girl began to pet him gently, giving a few scratches behind his ears, Jeongin felt himself melting into her side while content little whimpers escaping him occasionally. They sat like that as the sun began to set, but just before it dipped completely below the horizon she rose from her seat. “I better get back before it’s too dark. Thank you for coming to see me again, Mr. fox.” With that she bid him farewell and left Jeongin sitting against the rock with his brain a little hazy from the affection he had received. Once she was gone from sight he realized he probably reeked of her scent and his hyungs would know he had seen her again. Changbin, Hyunjin, and Felix had kept to their word and hadn’t told Chan about the last time but after the way her soft hand had carded through his fur for what felt like hours there would be no way to hide it from him or the others. The would know the second he stepped into the clearing.

In an attempt to cleanse himself of any trace of her, Jeongin looked around to be sure she was really gone before shifting and taking a dip into the river. Fully submerging himself, the hybrid swam around for a while to make sure there would be no way to smell the lost girl’s scent on him when he returned home.

Fortunately for him this had worked and the only questions he received once back in the cabin was as to why he was soaking wet. He made up a simple lie that he had gotten too hot while on patrol and went for a swim, effectively getting his hyungs off his back for the most part though Changbin had chastised him that it was getting too close to autumn and he could catch a cold if not careful.

The youngest apologized for not thinking of his health, promising not to do it again as he went to take a proper bath just to scrub his skin raw with every scented product in the bathroom and make extra sure that there was no way they would ever find out about his latest encounter with his new secret friend.

Two weeks since the meeting at the river, Jeongin made it a habit of running into the pretty girl. She never introduced herself, or talked about why she was always in their forest, but she would tell him stories from a book she started bringing to the river where they started meeting at the end of every day just before the sun would set. The hybrid would rest his head on her thigh to soak up the warmth there and she carded her fingers through his fur as she read aloud to him.

Jeongin always made sure to take a dip in the water after she left, washing away her scent to keep their meetings secret from his hyungs who undoubtedly would not approve of his new friendship with a human.

It was a normal day on patrol for the fox hybrid, keeping watch of their beloved forest. He felt the slowly chilling early autumn breeze brush around his fur as he walked leisurely through the trees, thinking of what stories he may get to hear from the pretty girl later that afternoon when suddenly a sharp pain shot through his left leg and the loud sound of metal clinking together rang in his ears.

In his distracted state of mind the hybrid had completely missed the bear trap in his path, stepping right on it causing the metal teeth to pierce his flesh and blood to slowly begin trickling down to his paw and the dirt and leave covered ground.

Jeongin was too far from the cabin, and the older hybrids that were on patrol were in areas of the forest too far to hear his cries for help. Those who had chores at the cabin did not have as good of hearing as he, Chan, and Seungmin. He was truly and helpless fucked. The pain was searing and he felt like he could faint but he forced himself to stay together and let out a loud howl hoping that someone would hear him and come to his rescue.

Fortunately for the hybrid, his human friend happened to be walking near by when she began to hear the sound of not too distant fox cries. “That can’t be-“ she whispered to herself, turning in the direction of the sound before she heard it again. The sound was strangled, desperate, and it caused her nerves to stand on edge before she took off running in the same direction. Low hanging branches and thorns tore at her skin with the speed she was running to get to her precious Mr. fox, as she so affectionately called the hybrid. Once she spotted the sight of his orange fur she began to relax, until she noticed the state he was in and her panic kicked into overdrive.

As soon as she was by his side the girl dropped to her knees, hands hovering over the trap with hesitation. “Oh- oh this is bad-“ She mumbled to herself, trying to see how to release Jeongin from the trap. “O-Okay…I’m gonna try and pry it open, then you pull your leg out okay?” She explained, voice shaking though she tried to stay calm. The hybrid nodded to her, braving himself to move quickly once she got the trap open. The girl took a deep breath, holding it as she placed both hands on each side of the trap and began pulling them apart with all of her strength.

As soon as he felt the metal teeth leave his flesh the hybrid pulled his leg free and let himself fall to the forest floor with a whine. The girl let go of the trap once she saw he was free, pulling her hands back quickly as to not get stuck herself. “Okay okay- uh- shit this is bad, you’re bleeding a lot-“ rambling once more, she began looking around the forest then back to the fox laying before her. Before she could overthink things, her arms were wrapping around the fox and cradling him against her chest as she stood and began running back through the woods the way she came. Jeongin felt himself going in and out of consciousness as he used the pretty human girl’s scent to ground himself in reality as best he could.

After a while the pair came to a clearing, much smaller than the one where the cabin was, with a simple camping set up. There was a small tent, only big enough for maybe two people, a small ring of rocks where ashes remained from what he assumed was a fire probably the night before, two folding chairs, and a few plastic bins stacked neatly beside the tent. Jeongin took in the small space curiously, trying to distract himself from the pain as she laid his nearly limp body in one of the chairs before digging around in the bins for something. “I know there is a first aid kit in here somewhere-“ she huffed out, still out of breath from how fast she had run to get them there before he bled out anymore. “Ahah!” She shouted triumphantly, producing a roll of bandages. Quickly, she retuned to his side and began using a small bottle of water to clean his wounds before bandaging them tightly.

She looked rough, now that he could see her fully and give her his full attention, he could see that her hair was falling out of the braid she had pulled it back into and there was tiny cuts and scrapes littering her exposed skin. Her clothing was stained with dirt and his own blood from where she had carried him there. “Alright, all patched up.” She said with a soft smile effectively warming his insides with the gesture. The hybrid looked down at her handwork and smiled in his head. She did a pretty good job for someone who seemed to be clueless most of the time. “Let’s get you back, yeah? I’m sure you’ll wanna go back to your den and get some rest after this…wait- do foxes live in dens or caves?” There was his clueless girl. Jeongin wished he could talk to her, tell her all the things he had to keep to himself in his fox form, properly introduce himself to her so she didn’t have to always call him Mr. fox…In his head he let out a sigh, resting his head on his uninjured right leg before he was suddenly scooped back up into her arms.

The young hybrid chirped, a small purring sound erupting from his chest and she held him snuggly against her soft chest. “I’m gonna bring you back as far as I can remember seeing you, okay? I think your home should be nearby. Think you can get there on your own after that?” Jeongin nodded a bit, though he worried she may try to follow him to make sure he was okay and end up finding the cabin…and the others finding her. After a long walk through the densely wooded area, the girl set him down and gave a soft kiss to the top of his head. Oh- she had never done that before. “Get home safely, please…and come see me when you are better so I don’t worry too much.” She said with a slight teasing lilt in her voice. Jeongin gave her a nod before turning and limping his way back to the clearing.

Once he was past the tree line he looked back to make sure she hadn’t followed, shifting back into his human form and letting out an almost blood curdling scream as the bandages she had placed on his much smaller fox leg now ripped apart and fell to the soft grass of the clearing. At the sound of his scream Minho and Jisung were racing out of the cabin and to his side. Upon seeing his injuries Jisung gasped and a hand shot to cover his mouth while Minho jumped into action much like the girl had, though his movements were much more confident whereas hers were more hesitant. “What happened to you??” Jisung questioned from over the cat hybrid’s shoulder. “Bear trap- at least now it’s been trigged this won’t happen again.” He tried to joke, laughing pathetically at the attempt as Minho scooped him up in his arms and began carrying him back to the cabin while Jisung brought his clothes.

The sight that greeted Chan and Seungmin when the both arrived home from their own patrols was their youngest laid out on their kitchen table, still shirtless though he was dressed from the waist down, pain etched into his face as Minho worked carefully to stitch up the nasty gashes on his arm. Felix assisted the older, wiping away any blood that blocked his path with a warm wet cloth as Han, Hyunjin, and Changbin waited anxiously from the other side of the kitchen as to still show support but not catch a glimpse of the somewhat gory scene. “What the hell happened.” Chan said, the oldest at Jeongin’s free side in an instant while Seungmin was quick to join Felix in helping keep things as sterile as possible.

“Hyung i-it’s fine-“ Jeongin spoke through gritted teeth, wincing as the cat hybrid laid yet another stitch. “It sure as hell doesn’t look fine.” His disapproving frown was so evident in his voice that the younger hybrid didn’t even need to look up to see it. “Chris- can we talk about it after he’s all patched up?” Felix pleading voice called out to the wolf hybrid causing him to sigh and nod in agreement. “Alright, yeah. Later, though. I want a full explanation, no excuses.” With that the oldest went off to clean up and try and distract himself from the youngest’s painful whimpers.

Once Jeongin was successfully stitched back together and bandaged properly to fit his human form, he was sat on the couch in front of a very disappointed wolf hybrid who’s arms were crossed firmly over his broad chest. Hyunjin was glued to the younger’s side, nuzzling up next to him for comfort as the fox in question had his gaze downturned to his lap. “So you were continuing to see this human after i specifically told you not to, and to get us if you ever saw her again?” Chan’s voice was stern, eye brow raising to show he expected an answer after Jeongin had finished telling them the story of his secret friend, how he had come to be injured, and how she had saved him and attempted to treat his wounds. “I’m sorry hyung….she just- she’s different, I just know. I can feel it.” The older scoffed, looking to the side before turning back to the younger. “You only say that now. How do you know she doesn’t just want something from you, hm?” His skepticism and distrust for humans caused Jeongin to frown himself. He knew very well why the head of their little family had so much distain for humankind, and he didn’t blame him for harboring such a bias against them. The fix himself had a very tainted past at the hands of many humans at the facility he was raised, it’s why he had to escape.

“She’s probably trying to gain your trust now so she can use it against you later.” The fox hybrids ears twitched atop his head as he allowed the older to scold him for his actions and his carelessness. “But she wouldn’t-“ he started to say, feeling a deep seated need to defend his friend. “I don’t want you going out on patrol from now on. Hyunjin will take your place.” Chan said finally, cutting off the younger hybrid whose head snapped up at the order. “You can’t- that’s so unfair! Channie hyung she saved my life-“ A low growl echoed through the room effectively silencing the fox, though he glared up at the older hybrid defiantly. “You showed me that you cannot listen to orders, Ayen. I don’t give orders for the hell of it, I do it to protect you. All of you. If you can’t listen then you are putting yourself and all of us at risk.”

Jeongin let out a whimper, choosing to burying his face in the nape of Hyunjin’s neck and let out a choked sob in lieu of an answer. The ferret hybrid held him close, rubbing his back in soothing circles as he gave Chan a look. The wolf shook his head dismissively before heading towards his room at the back of the cabin. Felix chased after him, a look of pity in his soft brown eyes. “You could have gone easier on him, Chris…I get that he didn’t listen but she hasn’t given him any reason not to trust her this far-“ Chan let out another growl causing the cat hybrid to take a step back from him. “Drop it, Lix. I’ve made up my mind. If any of you see that human around you let me know, I will take care of it.” There was an edge to his tone that made the hair stand up at the back of his neck, the younger hybrid only nodding in under before heading back to help comfort their youngest.

It had been so long since he had seen her last, the fox hybrid found it hard to believe it had been only eight weeks since he first discovered the human girl lost in their woods. Jeongin spent his time not on patrol taking over Hyunjin’s chores at the cabin. His days consisted of laundry and tending to the garden with his hyungs that were not out in the forest. One day, while alone in the garden, the youngest looked up at the sky to see storm clouds slowly rolling in. Changbin came out from the house to shout out to the fox. “Ayen-ah! Make sure to bring the laundry in before it starts to rain!” The bunny hybrid gave him a soft smile, all of them knowing the transition to his new daily tasks had been difficult for the youngest. Jeongin called out to his hyung as he made his way from the garden over to the clothes line. “You got it, Binnie-hyung!”

As he was bringing the now folded laundry inside, neatly placed in the large wicker basket, his ears and nose began to twitch and his tail stiffened as a sense of unease fell over him. Something was wrong, very wrong.

Carefully, Jeongin sat the basket on the porch away from where any rain could get to it as a light drizzle began to fall from the sky. Trying to be as quiet as possible, the fox backed away towards the tree line before taking off in a sprint.

He wasn’t sure what it was but he had this sinking feeling that she was not okay. Once he was deeper in the woods and was sure his hyungs that were on patrol would be closer to the cabin and there was less of a risk of him being caught disobeying his oldest hyung’s orders he slowed to a walk, eyes carefully scanning the trees as the sickening feeling got worse. This was the first time he had been in the forest in this form, having to get used to the difference in height and view.

The closer he got to where her small camp was, the more wrong everything felt.

Looking up at the sky his stomach sank further at the sight of vultures circling. Breaking out into a frantic run he was quickly thrust into the small clearing where the human girl’s camp was.

It was raining heavily now, and just outside the opening to the small tent laid her limp body on the ground. His feet were moving before he could even process, falling to his knees as he examined what could have caused her to be in this state.

Jeongin let out a little gasp at her appearance. She looked sickly, skin paler than normal and her body was visibly smaller than when he had seen her last. As he thought back briefly to all the times he had seen her he realized that over time she had been loosing weight gradually with every visit. How could he have been so blind? Why didn’t she have any food? He didn’t have time to think about that right now.

The fox hybrid gently touched her frigid skin and felt for a pulse, it was weak but there and he scooped her body into his arms carefully. Fuck he must be insane for what he was about to do, but he couldn’t leave her there to die. Not after she had saved him.

With the girl securely in his hold Jeongin stood up and took off for the cabin, her head cradled against his shoulder as he tried not to jostle her too much as he ran to get back before it was too late.

A soft groan left her lips and with it he felt a glimmer of hope, she wasn’t too far gone.

Rain was blurring his vision, his hair flatting to his head flinging drops of water as he sprinted through the forest, weaving and winding to avoid colliding with any trees or branches as he made his way back to the clearing for help.

Time was completely elusive to the young hybrid as he stumbled up the steps to the front porch of the cabin after what felt like both an eternity and no time at all, almost tripping over the basket he had left there early.

At the sound of his steps on the wood floor of the porch his hyungs came rushing out the door to greet him. “Jeongin where have you been?! We’ve been worried sick, you just disap-“ Han’s words were cut off as he saw the girl clutched tightly to the youngest’s chest. “Oh my god is that-“ Felix pushed past the chipmunk hybrid to see what he was talking about and a gasp left him as he saw her. “You brought her here?!? Ayen if Chan sees you he’s gonna-“ “I’m gonna what?”

Chan moved around the pair of younger hybrids to see what Jeongin had that was causing such a stir. When his eyes landed on her limp body held by the fox and the desperation in his eyes the wolf growled lightly. “What the hell are you doing bringing a human here.” It wasn’t a real question, simply a statement to show his distaste for the youngest’s actions. “Hyung please- she’s starved! I-I found her laying outside and-and there were vultures and I think she’s going to die-“ Jeongin pleaded, stepping closer to the oldest. “That isn’t our problem. She shouldn’t be out here unprepared if she didn’t want to starve to death.”

The wolf hybrid stood his ground, his face void of expression as he looked at the younger with indifference. Jeongin stared in shock, his oldest hyung was usually so caring and gentle. He had his moments of sternness, as any good leader did, but it was only from the deep need to protect and take care of their family. Hearing such harsh words for another living being from his most trusted hyung caused his heart to ache. “Channie-hyung please- I have to save her. I owe her.”

At the sound of the commotion the rest of the hybrids came out to see Jeongin pleading with the wolf, his grip on the human in his arms tightening and tears welling in his eyes. Minho was the first to step forward, moving between the two canines. “Give her to me, kit.” He spoke softly, reaching for the girl causing Jeongin to flinch back and hold her more protectively. “Calm down, I’m not going to hurt her. We can’t keep standing out in the cold or her condition will worsen.”

The youngest eyed him cautiously before slowly and carefully passing the girl into the older’s arms.

“Minho what are you doing.” Chan spoke sternly, eyebrow raising at the cat as he began heading for the front door. “Hyung I know you have a bad past with humans, and you are valid to be cautious of them, but this girl is in no state to pose any threat to us.” He ignored the growling coming from the wolf as he moved inside carefully and headed for the fox hybrid’s room. “Ayen is right, we can’t let her die.” Jeongin followed wordlessly, walking past his hyungs to follow Minho to his room.

“She’s staying with you, though I doubt you’d complain.” He teased lightly, laying her on the bed before starting to remove her clothes.

“What are you-“ Jeongin stared wide eyed as his hyung stripped her to nothing on his bed. Seeing her naked form caused his stomach to turn as he could see just how frail her frame had become in comparison to the time he had seen her bathing in the river. “Go and get me all the blankets and towels you can, throw them in the dryer then bring them here. We need to bring up her core temperature, she’s already hypothermic and before we can think about feeding her we need her temperature back up.”

Nodding, the fox hybrid rushed to get the things requested by his hyung. In some weird show of possession he made sure to grab blankets and towels that held his scent the most, even rubbing against them before tossing them into the dryer before heading back to his room to see what he could do in the meantime.

He saw Han and Felix were at Minho’s side, talking in low voices about the next corse of action. “The stuff you asked for is in the dryer, what else can I do Hyung?” Jeongin’s voice was eager as he made his way to the edge of the bed, taking her cold hand in his much warmer one. “Well kit, we were just talking about that…while we wait for the stuff in the dryer we still need to keep her warm.” She was now laying under the quilt on his bed, her body still shivering lightly as Minho continued. “Body heat is most ideal…” a flash of jealousy and that possession from earlier came back as he spoke up immediately. “I’ll do it.” Minho smirked and nodded to the youngest. “Okay, so you will need to take off your clothes and hold her to you.”

Han and Felix giggled as the fox hybrid flushed visibly at the realization of what he had just volunteered to do. Still, he didn’t regret his words. He would much rather it be himself than one of the others being with you like this. He quickly began taking off his clothes, causing the others to snicker. “No need to be so eager, kit.” Han teased, poking his cheek as he went to check the dryer with Felix in tow. “Shut up-“ once he was fully bare he carefully lifted the edge of the quilt and slipped into the bed next to her.

“I’m gonna go and make something for her to eat once we warm her up. When Felix and Han get back, wrap her in the towels first then the blankets.” Jeongin nodded, listening to the cat hybrid’s words though his attention was on the girl laying next to him. “You did good getting her here, don’t mind Chan-hyung he will come around to realize how harsh he was being eventually.”

Once Minho had left the room, it was just the fox and the human girl. His pretty girl. Finally being with her in this form, he felt he could fully take in her beauty. The hybrid wrapped his arms around her torso, pulling her flush against him so the natural warmth of his body could radiate onto hers. “Hi- um…I know you probably can’t hear me right now…but I figured uh..since we are like this I should introduce myself-“ his nerves caused him to stutter, his face mere inches from her own causing his hot breath to fan over her face gently, the girl in his arms letting out another small groan. “I’m Jeongin, um- Mr. fox is a cute nickname but- my name is Jeongin. God you have no idea how long I’ve wanted to tell you that-“

He laid like that for what felt like an eternity, taking in her features so closely as he attempted to warm her up. Slowly he felt the chill on her skin leaving as Han and Felix came back with the stuff from the dryer. The youngest moved back the quilt so they could get to work wrapping her in the warm fabric, and at the sight of her nude form Han began to blush as he attempted to advert his eyes. Just like Jeongin, the chipmunk had never seen a female before. “Minho-hyung said to start with the towels-“ Jeongin removed himself from her side, sitting up on his knees to help them wrap her up.

After she was safely cocooned in warm towels and blankets. Jeongin redressed as Minho brought in a bowl of broth. “Is that gonna be enough? She looks like she hasn’t eaten in weeks-“ Jeongin eyed the broth skeptically as Minho sat on the edge of the bed and gently tapped at the girl’s cheek. “Come on, sleeping beauty. Gotta get some food in you so you get get better.” A whimper left her lips, but her mouth opened enough for him to feed her a spoonful. “Broth is enough for now. She can’t exactly chew in this state and we don’t wanna put anything too heavy in her stomach or she won’t be able to keep it down.”

Slowly the cat hybrid fed her, watching as the warmth from the blankets brought color back to her skin. Minho smiled softly, brushing the hair back from her face gently as she finished the bowl he had brought her. “There. I’ll feed her some more later. We’ll keep this up until she’s awaken then we’ll move to adding veggies in it if she thinks she can keep it down” with that the older left to wash the empty bowl and give the youngest some space with her.

Jeongin sat back on the edge of the bed, his fingers carding through her hair gently as she used to do with his fur when they would meet at the river. She stirred lightly, eyelids fluttering a bit but they never opened. “J-Jeongin?” She spoke softly and his heart clenched. “I’m right here- I’m here, pretty.”

A soft smile reached her lips and her body seemed to relax as she drifted back to sleep once more. She must have heard him earlier, she said his name! He never thought his name sounded lovelier than coming from her lips. Jeongin let go of her hand and shifted back into his fox form, curling up beside of her on the bed and letting himself rest as well. It had been a long day and his exhaustion was finally catching up with him now that he knew she was safe. The last thought he had before drifting off was that he never wanted to let her out of his sight again, his pretty human girl.

author’s note; aaahh my first ever hybrid fic! I hope you all enjoy reading this as much as i enjoyed writing it~~ big thanks to @chancloud8 for cheering me on and helping me whenever I hit a bump in the road and needed advice! Looking forward to continuing this story (though don’t worry I’m still working on my other series as well~) as usual lmk if you would like to be added to the taglist for this series~~ ᕱᕱ₊˚⊹♡

taglist; @coastinglove @estella-novella @chancloud8 @skzswife @motheraiya55 @zofia515 @skybluelixie

[breadedloafs]

this felt so much more comforting after all that angst in previous chapter! i’m in the pre-exam study period rn so wish me luck!!!

Chapter 17

WC 1701

Masterlist

Short one this time. Sorry. 😞

Nothing within reflects anyone or anything irl. Pics off pinterest.

Warnings ⚠️ swears, abo dynamics, mentions of slave trade, mentions of rape, mentions of abuse, mentions of death, fear, manipulation abandonment.

(*；д；)ノ

I was out of the car before it even came to a full stop, pulling Channie and Lixie behind me, desperate to have all eight of my Omegas again, even if I knew it would only be for a short time.  It was an absolute need.

I leapt into Hyun’s arms as soon as I was close enough, wrapping my legs firmly around his waist and trusting that he would be able to hold my weight.  I took a deep long inhale of his dark colored scent, pleased to still smell a bit on myself on him.

Hyune gripped you tightly back, face pressed tight against your undiluted scent and almost purring in happiness.  “Oh!  We didn’t want to add to your stress by being too freaked out by separating, but it was so hard!  You were gone so freaking long!”  He mumbled against my skin.

I kissed the side of his head, feeling so warm.  They weren’t clingy like I was because they were thinking of how to make it easier on me.  My sweet, sweet, thoughtful Omegas.  “That was very sweet of you to do.  Next time, just do what you need.  Don’t make it harder on yo9urselves to spare me.  We will get through everything together.”

“What is that awful smell?”  Lino asked stopping dead right before hugging me.  The others had gathered and were not so patiently waiting their turn for a hug.

“It’s her, but only surface.  Her scent is still the same.”  Hyun replied, reluctantly letting me go.  Hannie and Binnie leaned in to sniff me, both making identical disgusted faces.  In a different situation I would have laughed.

I smelled myself too.  Was it B.O?  “What the hell?  I don’t smell anything.”  Just my country fresh deodorant.  Which was actually flowers of some kind.  I really want to know who decided that was what the country smelled like.  Have they ever been to the country?  Because any time I went to the country it smelled like hay and cow manure.  Not flowers.

“What the hell did you do, roll around in Omega?”  Sungmin’s whole face was pinched, and he leaned away from me.

“The fuck you mean.  Channie and Lixie have barely touched me!”

“Not them.  A different Omega.  Not one of us.”

“You smell like Tad.  From the hug.”  Channie explained.

“You’re hugging other Omegas?”  Ayen accused looking hurt and pissed.

“It was one Omega.  One!”  I corrected quickly.  But I did feel bad.  I had asked Tad if his Alpha would mind me hugging him, but I hadn’t thought about my Omegas not being okay with it.  It was a two-way street.

Wait.

I spun to Channie and Lixie.  “That’s why you were angry?  Because I smelled like another Omega?”

Channie shrugged and Lixie looked away.

“You dummies!  Do you realize how easy that is to fix?”  I pointed out.  Just them leaving their scent on me would dilute Tads, but they stopped touching me instead.  “I’m sorry I didn’t make sure you were okay with the hug first.  If the roles were reversed, I would get jealous too.  Just – talk to me next time, okay?”

“We don’t have the right to tell you who you can and can’t be around.  Or hug.”  Lixie argued.

“Fuck that!  Don’t be all up on whore Omegas!  You’re ours!”  Lino snapped, taking off his hoodie and shoving me into it gently, but with no room for argument.

I let Lino put his scent on me but ignored his comment.  I knew he didn’t mean it the way it sounded, and it was mostly jealousy talking at the moment, coupled with the fact that we had been apart for a long time today.

“To some extent you do.  I am your Alpha just as much as you’re my Omegas.  If any of us are uncomfortable with another being around a certain person, bring it up.  We can discuss it.  Talk through it.”  Now that I had Hyun and Linos’ scent on me, Hannie finally came in for his hugs.

“No Omegas.  Just us.”  He hummed in my ear.  I could feel his pout against my skin.

I patted his back.  “That’s unfeasible.  But I will limit the touching.  No hugs without permission.”  I reasoned.  That was easy enough.  It’s not like I go around hugging everyone I meet.  Tad was an exception because he had stirred emotions in me by being so friendly and supportive.

~

We found an empty room and I arranged the Omegas in a giant pile.  I was able to touch them all in some way.  Craving contact and togetherness while I could still get it.

Soon we would be forced to separate again.  Schedules did not wait, and they didn’t care how we felt about it either.  But for now, we clung to each other and talked about silly, meaningless things.  For this moment we were together and nothing else mattered.  I felt my frazzled, stressed instincts settle and quiet.  There was nothing more calming and peaceful than this.

We didn’t talk anymore about the events at the interview or photoshoot, but they all made a point to leave their scents a little heavier than they usually did.  I was more than willing to let them.  Though I noted Channie and Lixie barely participated, much to my disappointment.

I hadn’t even pushed Alpha on them that hard, just enough for them to feel it really.  They were only taking it so hard because it was the first time, and they hadn’t expected it.  I already felt guilty enough about it.

Well after dark we were all still up.  I was laying on the couch in the studio, eyes closed, but not sleeping.  Hannie and Hyun had left to do their things and come back already.  We were still spread out, but in the same building at least.  And as far as I could tell, no one was close to finishing up for the day yet.  The Omegas came and went, leaving me to relax with just a small brush against me or a thoughtful gesture.  Draping a blanket over me, dimming the lights a little, tucking the blanket around me tighter.  Then they left again.

Until I noticed someone lingering.  Electrical storm and sour filled the air as Lixie floated here and there int e room, fiddling with things quietly and staying close to me, but not speaking or touching me.

“Lixie, babe?”  I finally asked scooting to lean on the arm of the couch instead of laying down.  The blonde Omega jumped like I had shouted at him.

Lixie made a noise of question, but didn’t look at me.  Instead, he was fingering blindly at some papers, eyes fixed on the floor and reeking of anxiety.  I didn’t like how he was acting.  It wasn’t his usual clingy self I had come to love and appreciate.

“Talk to me, my sunshine.”  I requested quietly.  “Tell me what’s wrong.”  I wanted to fix it.  I wanted my Omega to be happy and content again.

It took a bit longer for Lixie to gather the courage to open to his worries.  He turned away briefly and straightened more things before taking a deep breath and facing me again.

“Are…are you still mad at me?”  He finally got out.  He was holding his breath.  Waiting for the answer he was terrified to hear.

My heart sank for him.  “Oh, baby boy!  We already talked through this.”  I cooed reaching for him.

But he pulled away, shaking his head.  “Not about the other Omega.”  He looked miserable.  “I broke my promise.”  His voice broke and barely came out in a whisper.

Oh!  His promise to help me with the shoot so I didn’t look stupid.  I honestly had forgotten about that part since it had all ended up turning out okay.  Reaching out again I managed to get his hand before he could pull further away.  “Come here, babe.”  I pulled on him gently and he willingly came with me almost sagging into me.

I settled him on top of me, with him resting his head on my chest and snaking a hand under my shirt to seek skin on skin contact.  His fingers were cold against my warm skin, and I felt goosebumps raise where he touched me.

I smoothed back his hair and kissed his forehead.  “I was never mad about that, Lix.  I was disappointed.”

“That’s so much worse!”  He whined, burying his face in my chest and groaning high pitched.  He kicked his feet and squeezed my waist tighter.  I had to suppress a giggle at the cuteness of baby Lix.

I continued to stroke his hair.  “I rely on you guys for all this idol stuff that I don’t have any experience with.  Chan, Seungmin, and J all kept the threats from me.  Then you left me on my own at the shoot.  It really feels like I can’t depend on you guys.  And that makes me very sad and lonely.”  I explained.

“Not alone.  Never alone.”  He somehow made himself heavier, pushing me onto the couch to emphasize his point.  “I won’t do that to you again.  I don’t care how upset I am.  It’s not worth breaking a promise.  Its not worth letting you down.”

“You shouldn’t make promised you can’t keep.”  I chastised gently poking his nose playfully.

“I’ll keep this one.  I’ll keep all my promises to you.  It’s the very least you deserve.”

I smiled gently.  “Okay, Lix, I believe you.”

“No, you don’t.  But ill prove it to you.”

I wrapped around him tighter and draped a blanket over the both of us.  Something told me Lixie would do everything he could to prove it to me.  To make it up to me in every way he could.  Over and over.

That night Hannie and Seungmin stayed with me to ward off most of the fear and nightmares.  Sungmin’s arms wrapped securely around me, guarding me while Hannie’s heat staved off the cold trickle of fear.  The nightmares, when they came, were interrupted quickly by soft whispers and featherlight kisses.

And then when I woke up in the morning, I was completely alone.

！！(゜ロ゜ノ)ノ

General Taglist @stellasays45 @beebee18 @weird-bookworm

Unwilling Alpha Taglist: @xxeiraxx @hanniemylovelyquokka @breadedloafs @songleepark @f1ln4dr3cl16mv33 @hyunjinhoexxx @kayleefriedchicken @vietjeb @hityoulikebahng @juju-227592 @ionlyeverwantedtobeyourequal @royal-shinigami @bangchansfavoritenoona @straykidslvr @bookswillfindyouaway @h0rnyp0t @Svmmerstime @jennibahng @kpopandmusicpassion @jasmin-loves-k-pop @cookey-lock @possum-playground @demigoddreamon-blog @rei-reia @dreamerwasfound @jasmin-loves-k-pop @ms-flowergirl @princess-sunshyn @technicallyimportantsweets @mbioooo0000 @jisungs-iced-americano @bluesoobinnie @threeopossumsinacoat @kkamismom12

[breadedloafs]

yippee! another update!! also goddammit chan and felix, we established communication is important already😞 sigh i really wanna know what’s in their heads, btw are you planning on doing other pov besides yn? i don’t remember if you’ve done it before or not, but if not would you do that(either for prev or future chapters)?

Unwilling Alpha

Chapter 16

WC 3,254 (not including text message pictures)

Masterlist

Warnings ⚠️ swears, abo dynamics, mentions of slave trade, mentions of rape, mentions of abuse, mentions of death, fear, manipulation. Dom/sub vibes in this one briefly.

Nothing within reflects anyone or anything irl. Pics off pinterest.

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I came prepared for the overstimulating chaos of hair and makeup. I had my earbuds in and playing my favorite K-pop playlist before the stylist even began. Channie and Lixie sat on either side of me, with earbuds of their own in.

“Go really light on her hair and makeup, please.” Cahn asked as my stylists began. I looked at him, shocked. They had been teaching me makeup techniques since my reveal, so I was more used to how I looked in it, but I still went pretty light and avoided changing the shapes of my face too much. “We are more comfortable keeping a natural look on her.”

The stylist scrutinized me for a few seconds. Assessing. “We can do that. We were told casual, so it works well.”

I smiled at Channie in thanks, and he winked back at me. “I gotcha, babe.” He teasingly flirted. It still made me blush and fight not to hide my face.

“Fucking flirt.” I mumbled making Channie chuckle.

The results were better than I had dared to hope. I was actually done before Channie and Lixie and in wardrobe.

This interview and photoshoot were part of a ‘Pride of Australia’ series they had been working on. As such literally everything weas Australian made or company based. All clothing was either created by Australian designers or made in Australian companies. All provided food and drink was from Australia, right down to Australian raised cows for the coffee creamer. The employees, cameramen, photographer, stylists, were all Australian.

In fact, I was the only thing or person not Australian, and I felt it. I felt like a foreigner. Which is off to say since I am a foreigner – it’s just the first time I felt it so predominantly.

Channie, Lixie and an official looking and harried worker joined the wardrobe stylist and myself as I was putting on the shoes they provided. I smiled at them, reaching to brush their hands as they passed.

“Markus and Tad are going to do a short interview with y/n first before bringing Chris and Felix in.” The employee started, looking only at the clipboard in their hands. “We are going to go ahead and get y/n set up with a mic and start the interview while Chris and Felix finish getting ready.”

I met Lixies eye and raised an eyebrow. Why was this woman speaking at us like we weren’t all right the fuck here? She wouldn’t even look at us!

Lixie shrugged. “Just go with it.”

Since Channies pants had pockets and mine didn’t I gave him my phone and wallet to hold before following clipboard woman out of the room. It didn’t escape my notice that I was not separated from all my Omegas, and I very much did not like it.

Unlike Channies and Lixies security, who stayed outside, Duri stayed nearby. I figured it was in response to the threats and recent attack, but I didn’t mind. It was comforting to see a familiar face in the hustle of strangers.

The show was filmed in front of a live audience, which took up one side of the room while the stage was on the other. Cameras, boom mikes, chairs, equipment, and workers were in between the two, blocking most of the view of the audience, which kind of confused me.

The stage was set up to look like a city skyline with a frame around where the two hosts currently stood. The skyline was familiar and famous sights around Australia that I recognized, even if I didn’t know the name of most of them.

Markus and Tad both wore tacky bright patterned outfits. I had a feeling they were the outlandish, obnoxious type of hosts that would surely be high energy and way too loud. It had the potential to be a really fun interview.

I smiled wide and joined them when they introduced me, standing in between them when they gestured.

The live audience cheered and both hosts pulled me in for a hug as they welcomed me with wide, toothy smiles and a lot of invading my personal space.

And I was right. They were very loud and very obnoxious, but their energy was infectious. It was just the right amount of too much without going overboard.

“So, the whole world wants to know.” Tad started swinging an arm around to encompass the whole world. “What is it like being Stray Kids Alpha?”

Easy question. “It’s truly wonderful. They are the best and – “ I stopped as Markus waved me off.

“Nah, nah, nah, nah!” He kept waving and shaking his hands. “We don’t want to hear how great it is! Boring! Tell us the juicy bits!” He ordered.

Thrown off, I struggled to find my train of thought again. Juicy bits? They wanted secrets? “What you see is who they are. Stray Kids have always just been themselves.” I shrugged.

Both men groaned dramatically. “You’re killing me, Alpha! We brought you on specifically to spill the tea!”

“Sorry, the only tea is Seungmin’s teatime.” The hosts and audience laughed at my reference, boosting my ego and confidence a bit.

“Okay, okay. But you all live together, right?”

“Yes. I have my own room that I just decorated before we left for the mini tour.” I knew they were hinting at spicier things. We didn’t need those rumors. “Even here, I have my own hotel room. The kids are very respectful of my personal space.” Mostly true. If I had been uncomfortable with it, they never would have slept in my room. The fact that last night was the first night we slept apart was something no one needed to know but us.

I chuckled awkwardly as Tad groaned again dramatically. I couldn’t give them what I didn’t have. “Tell us about the bonding? It happened rather suddenly, yeah?”

“Very, yeah. We were on a time crunch because of me, so there really was no time for the celebration and fanfare that Stray Kids deserve. I hope to one day make up for it.”

“And im sure you will. I tell you, what we have seen from you so far is truly impressive.”

“That attack at the airport is all anyone can talk about! Scary stuff!” Markus exclaimed.

I nodded in agreement. “I am very lucky I had both security and my Omegas with me.”

“So JYP is taking your safety seriously then?

“Oh yes! I have my own bodyguards and everything. I am definitely safe.”

“That’s good. JYPE had a pretty decent reputation for protecting their idols at least. Not as bad as some companies.”

Channie and Lixie were brought out soon after that and the questions went back to lighter topics. Tad and Markus spent a good amount of time trying to get the skinny on me from the boys – who all too happily complied without giving away anything too personal. Just enough to satisfy the hosts. They really were very good at all this stuff. I needed to practice and get better.

After the interview was over and there was the bustle of everyone wrapping up, Tad approached me. His whole being was significantly less now that the show was over.

“Miss l/n. I just wanted to come see if you were really okay after recent events.” He explained.

This question felt more genuine. Like he was actually worried about me and not ratings. “Um – ya know. On edge, but okay.” I answered honestly.

He nodded understandingly. “I have an Alpha of my own, so I understand some of what you are facing.” He began getting a soft look as he thought of his Alpha. “Just being apart was hard for several months and I’m just one Omega. You have eight! It’s truly amazing and inspiring – what you are doing. How well you are doing it.”

My emotions swelled. It was a different feeling to be praised by someone outside of the situation like this. More convincing somehow.

“Thank you. That means a lot. It’s nice to hear.”

With an understanding smile he handed me a post – it note with two phone numbers. “If you ever need anything at all. Even just a question or to vent – we are here for you. Jeff, my Alpha, has been trying to get more in touch with other Alphas in the spotlight like you two. To have a support system for everyone.”

I accepted the paper in awe. The support from an absolute stranger touched something deep. “Would he – would Jeff be upset if I hugged you?” I was mindful of leaving my scent on a bonded Omega that’s not mine, but I also let the need to hug this stranger. This Omega and his Alpha wanted to help me, another stranger, feel more comfortable and not alone in this insane world we live in.

In answer Tad just pulled me in. “He will understand.” He spoke lowly as I wrapped my arms around his ribs and closed my eyes. He patted my back gently and held on until I was ready to let go. A longer hug than what was considered normal, but he could tell I needed it and was willing to oblige.

~

The ride to the photoshoot was oddly quiet. Neither Omega spoke and I was still in my feels over the conversation with Tad. It was actually a good idea. I was in a position to change things for the better. Help other Alphas. I could begin just by getting in touch with the other Alphas withing JYPE and the other companies. Start a support group of my own. To share experiences and advice and even warnings. So, none of us were so alone.

I was in my thoughts all through the second round of hair, makeup, and wardrobe of the day. Too in my head to even be overstimulated or nervous. I was busy making plans for my support group.

I did, however, have to forcibly pull myself into the moment once we got on the photo set. Simple white background and Australian brand/made clothing, just like the interview. There were three pedestal like stools for us to pose on. I was directed to the one in the middle.

“Don’t overthink it or it will come off as stiff and unnatural. Just let it come naturally.” Channie advised without looking at me.

I got my first sense that something was wrong. Neither Omega would meet my eye and had barely spoken a word to me. “Everything okay?” I asked.

“Yeah, fine.” His words were short, clipped. Most definitely not fine.

I looked over at Lixie in question, but all he did was purse his lips and look away from me, not meeting my gaze or offering an explanation for either of their odd behavior.

I shrugged. Maybe they were tired. Or focused on the photoshoot. I crossed my legs at the knee and settled in my stool, which was slightly shorter than the other two. I felt both Omegas close behind me, but they did not touch me. They were purposely avoiding touching me.

The photoshoot started an di relaxed my face into something I hoped looked good. Someone turned on some house music, which made me chuckle. I thought the music was only done in movies. The photographer started snapping, yelling for one or more of us to move or make a different look – mostly me honestly. But he was being super patient with me, so I didn’t even feel singled out. Truly a good photographer. Able to make his subjects comfortable.

But about ten minutes in he suddenly put his camera down and stood up. “What’s going on? This is starting to look like an awkward family photo session.” He inquired gesturing to the three of us. “Are you fighting?”

Neither Omega answered right away – which was an answer. I shrugged. “Not as far as I’m concerned. They haven’t said anything.”

“Well, whatever it is, let’s nip it in the bud. This is supposed to be an uplifting piece about two national treasures finding their Alpha!” He lifted his camera again.

When after a few more shots, neither boy was giving any more than before and the atmosphere was more awkward than ever, I had had enough. I snapped to my feet with a huff and turned to them. In their shock of my sudden movement, they forgot they were avoiding looking at me. I glared both down, hands on my hips.

“That is enough! I don’t know what has your panties in a twist, but you’re professionals! Act like it!” I snapped at them. I felt my brain get heavy as a sunk into a more controlling Alpha persona. Letting more instincts than usual take over to exert a dominance over my Omegas that I usually avoided.

The effect was instantaneous. Their pupils blew and their posture stiffened while simultaneously becoming more submissive. And I hated it. This wasn’t the Alpha I wanted to be. It was the Alpha that was needed right now. To knock some sense into them. There was time for guilt later.

“Honestly! You’re acting like petty toddlers!” I continued to chastise them as I went to stand behind them for a pose. I reached around their heads to grip their chins and make them look up at me. “If you have a problem, say something. I can’t read your minds and I’m not begging you to tell me.” I looked first at one, then the other, speaking slowly and firmly. Pausing for the photographer.

I changed poses, turning their faces front again and resting a forearm on each shoulder. “You are the seasoned professionals here, you’re supposed to be helping me, not the other way around! You promised, Felix, and you broke that promise! First Chris breaks my trust by keeping things from me, now you are breaking your promises and leaving me hanging!”

The Omegas slowly started to get their shit together as I kept yelling at them. Their movements were halting and unnatural, but they were putting in an effort.

They both started to help me position and pose. “Honestly. Being so ridiculous over I don’t even know what! Leave your shit off set!” I was on a roll now, a low constant displeased rumble deep in my chest. I felt bad for making the photographers’ job harder because of their shit. I knew what it was like to have uncooperative subjects. To struggle to pull something usable out of them when they just would not give me anything to work with.

Sitting in Chans lap I felt him hide his face in my hair, lips close to my ear. “Alpha.” He almost whined. Hearing him call me so formally brought me up short. His hands, squeezing my waist rhythmically, shook slightly. “Please – im sorry. We’re sorry! Just- let up a little – please. It’s hard – hard to –“ He broke off with a soft whine, really struggling to get his words out.

It took me a second to figure out what he was asking for. Felix almost looked scared. Eyes big, reflective, and shiny as they begged me. Focusing, I quieted the rumble in my chest and let go of the controlling instincts – feeling my brain lighten up again. I was still annoyed as hell at them, just without the added Alpha control. They both visibly relaxed, no longer struggling to do as I asked while submitting to their Alpha.

“Finally. Thought I was going to have to carry this shoot all by myself.” I huffed.

That’s when I realized that besides the music, the room was still and quiet. Even the camera flashes had stopped. I looked around, confused and finally back in the moment around us.

The photographer looked at me in awe. “I’ve never had an Alpha do that. That was intense.” He explained taking a second to flip through the pictures. “The photos are fucking amazing, though, holy shit! I think we got the shots.”

I pointedly removed Chans hands form my waist and stood, making my way to the photographer to apologize and thank him. “I’m not sure what I did, but they are upset with me. This is all still very new to us, so I apologize. We are learning to navigate all this.” I explained while shaking his hand.

“I’m going to be honest with you, these are my all-time favorite photos I’ve ever taken, so I don’t mind at all.” The photographer gestured to his camera. “I was expecting more of a struggle with you since this is your first shoot and you’re also a photographer. But you handled it like a seasoned pro.”

I chuckled. “Thank you for today. And for being so patient. Next time I see you hopefully I’ll be much better at this.”

I practically ran back to the ready room to grab my things and change. Felix stopped me on the way out. “Love, can w-“

I held up a hand to stop him. Both he and Chan were still in their photo outfits, looking ready for a long conversation that I wasn’t. “No. You two didn’t wanna talk when it was time to talk, and I don’t have time now.” I looked at the time anxiously.

“Where are you going?” Chan asked confused. He probably knew my schedule better than I did and knew I had nothing else for today.

“Whether it bugs any of you to be apart or not, it bugs me. I’ve been away from six of my Omegas for too long and I only have a short time before schedules separate us again.” I gestured for them to hurry since we rode together. “I will leave your asses!” I threatened.

While I waited for them, I opened the group chat.

I cursed traffic and slow drivers. Checking my phone every few seconds in frustration and ignoring the tense atmosphere in the car. The awkwardness settles over us. I was not going to be the one to bring it up. This was all on them now.

“Angel, I’m sorry. We fucked up.” Felix finally said.

I scoffed and rolled my eyes. “That has already been established.”

“I didn’t mean to break my promise. I was being stupid. Jealous.”

“Jealous? Of what?”

Felix looked at Chan for help. “WE saw you talking to Tad after the interview.” Chan explained.

“He is bonded to an Alpha who is in the limelight because of him, and they thought since I’m in a similar situation I could use some support.”

“Support how?”

“I have their numbers if I need to talk or vent. Or have a question. Another Alpha who understands our situation and the dangers.” I shrugged. “I didn’t think you would care if I had friends.”

“No, we don’t!” Felix quickly and frantically denied.

“Of course we don’t. It was just…harder than expected. To share you.” Chan tried to explain, searching for the right words.

“That doesn’t explain why you acted that way. Or why you are acting weird now! You still won’t touch me, and you can barely look at me!”

Chan scratched at the back of his neck nervously. “We are still a little…raw, I guess, from earlier. From what you did during the shoot.” He explained. Felix nodded in agreement.

I huffed, feeling the guilt creep in. “Fine. Let me know when you are back to normal. Then we can discuss what really bothered you when I was talking to Tad.” We were getting nowhere like this

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General Taglist @stellasays45 @beebee18

Unwilling Alpha Taglist: @xxeiraxx @hanniemylovelyquokka @breadedloafs @songleepark @f1ln4dr3cl16mv33 @hyunjinhoexxx @kayleefriedchicken @vietjeb @hityoulikebahng @juju-227592 @ionlyeverwantedtobeyourequal @royal-shinigami @bangchansfavoritenoona @straykidslvr @bookswillfindyouaway @h0rnyp0t @Svmmerstime @jennibahng @kpopandmusicpassion @jasmin-loves-k-pop @cookey-lock @possum-playground @demigoddreamon-blog @rei-reia @dreamerwasfound @jasmin-loves-k-pop @ms-flowergirl @princess-sunshyn @technicallyimportantsweets @mbioooo0000 @jisungs-iced-americano @bluesoobinnie @threeopossumsinacoat

[breadedloafs]

AAAAAA YIPPEE!!! so cute🥰 also hongjoong being a tease is just i love the characterization of all of them☺️

Inception

Ateez Ot8 x Reader

Chapter 50

Unknown POV

The days were getting shorter and while temperatures were steadily dropping, some days, like today, were still saturated with a blistering heat. Sweat accumulated over my brow as I stood next to an open window in the late king’s study. It wasn’t unusual to find me here, not even with the current king away and even if someone were to find me here, they wouldn’t question me. Not unless they were asking for trouble. I surveyed the empty courtyard. Not a soul lingered in this sweltering heat. It was days like this when Serith seemed more preferable. I’d much rather brave the cold than the heat waves this God forsaken kingdom endured. A soft knock behind me drew my attention, I turned just as a guard opened the door and slipped inside silently. The silver badges on his uniform cast rainbows across the ceiling above us as the sun caught them. He shut the door behind him, saluting me before I waved it off.

“What is it?”

I questioned him while turning back to the window.

“Sir, I have news from our scouts in Merene. The girl, she’s been mated.”

A smirk curled my lips at the news, eyes observing the world beyond the castle walls when a wagon emerged from the line of trees down the driveway.

“To who?”

“Er, King Yeosang, sir.”

Merene’s pride and joy then. That was unexpected. I drifted my gaze down to where two people descended the front steps of the fortress. The two of them engaged in conversation as they waited for their ride. My eyes burned taking in the sight of the middle-aged woman laughing heartily with an equally amused, gray-suited lieutenant. Since her arrival, he’d taken it upon himself to care for her. No doubt as a courtesy to the woman’s late husband. How ironic she’s been made to live in the same home that her husband’s murderer inhabited. I chuckled at the thought.

“Should I give the order to deploy for Merene?” The soldier behind me asked hesitantly.

“No.” The statement was absolute as I watched the fellow soldier open the door to the caravan before offering a hand to the woman to help her up. “They’ll come to us. I’m sure of it.”

All it would take is one perfectly planned maneuver for the King of Merene and his new mate to find their way to me. After all, I had the greatest bargaining chip I could have ever asked for. I watched as she disappeared into the carriage, Seokjin right behind her before he closed the door, and they were out of sight. I’d have them come to me before long, but first, I needed Seokjin out of the way.

I ran my fingers over the mark on my hand. The inky color was a startling contrast to the rest of my unblemished skin. A surge of warmth flooded me any time I looked at it. The comfort I felt when I touched it was similar to being held by any of them. It was strange to see it colored now, but not unpleasant. It made the tangible connection between Yeosang and I pulse steadily. It was like a part of him lived within it, a constant reminder of the bond we shared, reinforced ten times over. If I thought the initial bond was powerful, it was nothing compared to what we shared as mates. I brushed the mark again, basking in the emotions following the action, when two hands laid over my shoulders. I looked behind me, smiling as I met Yeosang’s gaze.

We’d spent a long afternoon under the willow trees. As much as the day allowed before the sun had dipped too far on the horizon. 

Yeosang had suggested we fly back to the castle before it got too much darker. By the time we’d made it back home, it was dark and the only light to keep us company was the glow from inside the castle walls where curtains had been left open. Fog swirled along the ground at our feet, getting thicker as the temperature began to drop. Goosebumps rose on my flesh, the extra layer Mingi insisted I wear seeming to do nothing now that Merene’s typical temperature returned. Yeosang released me long enough to unbutton his dark overcoat. My protests dying as he slid it off his torso and draped it over my shoulders. Instead, I curled my fingers around it, tugging it tighter to myself as I looked up at him.

“Let’s get you inside.”

I searched the drawn castle windows in front us, looking for any sign of the others inside. Meeting them again after being officially mated was both exciting and terrifying. I knew the bond between me and the others hadn’t severed. If I searched deep enough, I could still feel my tether to them and Yeosang had confirmed it himself. It was my first indication that I wouldn’t have to choose between any of them. If they still wanted me, I wanted them too. I took my first steps toward the castle, clenching Yeosang’s coat tighter to steady myself even though my heart pounded painfully in my chest.

I’d only made it a handful of feet before the front doors swung open. I halted, staring at the man frozen inside the doorway, candlelight behind him illuminating every inch of his tall, lean physique. In the span of a breath, he met my gaze and broke into a run. Long legs skipping three stairsteps at a time while I snapped out of my daze. Before he could clear the last few steps, I sprinted for him. Tears blurred my vision, pooling in my eyes as I reached for him. Our bodies collided, his arms wrapping around me and lifting me to keep us upright as my tears spilled. Light citrus and soft jasmine swaddled me as I buried my face into Yunho.

He was pressed against me so tightly I could feel the fast beating of his heart, his hands clutched at Yeosang’s overcoat as he held me, drawing me closer. A stuttered breath escaped him as he laid his cheek on top of my head.

“Thank God.” He murmured, turning his head to breathe me in deeply as he set me back on my feet.

Beyond his hold, I could see Yeosang watching the two of us silently. A small smile on his face before he turned his head towards the castle entrance. I lifted my face away from Yunho just enough to look up. My eyes locking with San first as he stepped through the threshold, pink hair glowing in the warm yellow glow behind him. He stepped to the side, allowing two more through the doorway. Jongho quietly observed while Hongjoong leaned against the frame right behind him.

“I suppose congratulations are in order.”

I quirked a brow as Yunho and Jongho turned to face him.

“Congratulations?”

“You’ve found yourself as part of the dragon lineage, spitfire. I’d say that’s worth celebrating.”

I stifled my laughter, finding Yeosang’s gaze. He rolled his eyes but couldn’t fight the growing smile on his face. Another head popped into the doorway behind Hongjoong, the thick head of blue locks appearing almost black in the dim surroundings. Mingi towered over the king in front of him but made no move to push past Hongjoong.

“Come inside.” He beckoned to everyone. “Wooyoung made dinner and I’ve been sent to fetch the household.”

“Have you all been waiting on us to eat?” I asked, looking up at Yunho.

“Well to be fair, a few of us had some sobering up to do before we could even stomach the thought of dinner.”

The news wasn’t all that surprising, but I still frowned knowing that while I’d been perfectly happy in my bubble with Yeosang, the others were left anticipating the aftermath of our time together. The soft tap of a finger against the wrinkle between my eyebrows shook me out of the depressing thoughts, my eyes drifting up to meet San’s soft gaze.

“Don’t worry about it now. We’re all more than happy to know that our bond is still intact.”

“He’s right.” Mingi chimed in. “No more worrying about choosing or hurting one of us. Our dragons have decided it’s better to have you, mated you may be, than not at all. You’re stuck with us.”

I slid an arm around Yunho’s waist, my free hand reaching for San who took it within the span of a heartbeat. His warm palm pressing to mine as he intertwined our fingers.

“That doesn’t sound all that bad. I can’t imagine it any other way actually.”

The relief that came after weeks of stressing about the decision I’d be forced to make was infectious. For the first time, there was no cloud hanging over my head, gnawing at my conscience and making me feel guilty. I’d made my choice, and I was lucky enough that it didn’t lead to more heartbreak. No. Instead, I would be allowed to love these men unconditionally. All of them. The smile that split my features was carefree, my glee contagious as even Jongho cracked a smile upon seeing me bounce between Yunho and San excitedly.

No more hiding my emotions and no more feeling remorseful. It was time I started taking steps towards my own happiness like my parents had hoped I would.

Dinner was a lively affair. The atmosphere light and relaxed. I sat between Wooyoung and Yeosang. The former piling food onto my plate in servings that were way more than I was capable of eating, but I humored him anyway. Mingi kept flinging vegetables my way when he thought no one was looking until Yunho leaned over and scraped the rest of his greens onto Mingi’s plate. It was my first dinner with them where conversation didn’t seem forced, and everyone was in a good mood.

Jongho and San kept each other company. The brothers getting along amicably over discussion of Serith and Aiwralia. Beside them, Hongjoong engaged with Seonghwa though their conversation was too hushed for me to pick up any followable conversation. Though Seonghwa didn’t act any differently than he usually did, somehow I got the feeling that he shared in his comrades joy even if he didn’t outwardly express it. A low hum from my left caught my ear, Wooyoung swallowing the swig of wine he’d had in his mouth before turning to me.

“May I see it?”

He held out his hand, drawing my attention downwards.

“See what?”

“Your mark.”

A quiet mutter of realization left me as I offered him my hand. He held it between his, thumbs running the length of my fingers as he mapped out the now colored mark. A corner of his lips lifted as he nodded.

“It suits you.” He complimented it, glancing up at Yeosang with a flicker of mischief I barely managed to catch in his dark irises. “I think I would still prefer to see it in gold though.”

Yeosang reached around me, smacking Wooyoung in the shoulder as the younger man cackled, not bothering to evade the slew of physical and verbal attacks coming his way.

“You cheeky little shit.” Yeosang muttered, garnering a wide-eyed stare from me.

“Did you just curse?” I asked in disbelief.

Yeosang’s cheeks colored while Mingi burst into laughter from across the table.

“Contrary to what he has you believe, my lady, Yeo curses as much as any of us. Maybe even more so.”

“He’s just sneakier with it.” Wooyoung snickered.

“It’s not sneaky, it’s being polite. A gentleman shouldn’t curse in mixed company and especially not in the presence of women and children.”

“What does that make me then?” I teased him.

Yeosang leaned into me, one of his fingers looping around a strand of my hair. He was close, nose touching mine as those honey orbs swept over my features.

“You’re not just any woman. You’re the one I’m spending the rest of my life with. If I can’t be myself around you, then who can I?”

I stared at him as a slow smirk quirked the edges of my lips. With a light hum, I looked away, reaching for my wine.

“I think Woo is right.” I mumbled into the glass. “You’re rather sneaky.”

Hongjoong chuckled further down the table. I flit my gaze to him over my glass as he propped an elbow onto the table and laid his chin in his hand.

“You’re just easy to fluster, spitfire. Makes it fun for us.”

“No one teases me nearly as much as you.”

“A shame on their part.” Hongjoong winked. “The way you flush under my words would be enough to tempt the holiest of men.”

I set my wine down, pinning Hongjoong with a dubious expression.

“Are you saying you consider yourself to be a holy man?”

Yunho’s laugh bubbled out of him before he quickly smothered it with a fake cough. I glanced at him, catching his amusement as he covered his smile with a hand. My gaze drifted back to Hongjoong who couldn’t help a smug grin from forming as he leaned back into his chair.

“Me? Of course not. I’ve sinned enough to damn me for several lifetimes.” He pressed his tongue to his cheek as he raked his eyes over me. “And I plan to commit many more when it comes to you, spitfire.”

The utter nonchalance was what threw me the most. Despite knowing his intention was to fluster me, I couldn’t help my reaction. My cheeks brightened seconds before I ripped my eyes away from him. Ugh, he was absolutely shameless. The men around me broke into laughter, minus Seonghwa, though I was pretty sure he cracked a smile before it was gone in the next second.

“He jests, my love. I imagine you’ll get used to it eventually.” Yeosang chuckled.

I wasn’t too sure, but if I were being honest with myself, I didn’t really want to either. I liked how they made me feel, even in their teasing. The warmth that spread through me, the way my heart beats a little quicker, and when my skin heats up with the simplest of touches. It made me feel alive in a way that I hadn’t even realized. Prior to them, I was just surviving. My life had controlled me without me even noticing that I no longer held the reins. I wasn’t driving but riding and it took me meeting the eight of them to understand that.

My vision gravitated towards the mark on my hand, tracing the pattern briefly before I laid it over Yeosang’s arm, and I leaned into his side. He welcomed the embrace, shifting so I could comfortably lay my head onto his shoulder. This was it for me. I’d be spending the rest of my life with these men.

And I’d do whatever I could to ensure that it was a long and fruitful one.

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[breadedloafs]

this is one of my favorite scenes in this movie, just the music but also the awesome visuals. omg you captured it so amazingly i love it😭😭😭 i’m literally so excited for the rest of this🙇🙇

ariadne's thread ⎯ pt. 11: as the world falls down.

pairing(s): hyunjin x fem!reader series summary: when tempted by an intoxicating offer by hyunjin the goblin king of the underground, you fight against him to find your own sense of self once more while in his labyrinth. glimpse: with the sweetness of the fae-fruit on your lips, you blinked your eyes open to a magical celebration. an opulent ballroom spun before you with intrigue and wonder, drawing you into a fantasia and further and further away from the labyrinth and your worries. warnings/tags: inspired by the 1986' movie Labyrinth, follows majority of the movie's plot points with lore divergence, 3rd person POV, use of Y/N, mature, suggestive adult content, faerie lore, world-building, explicit language, implied drugging, a lot of overwhelmed YN, toxic relationship, idolization, manipulation, unequal power dynamics, implied background alcohol consumption, tons of flower symbolism, magic, vomit mention, other than thatttttt lemme know if i need to tag anything else :) this is my favorite chapter fyi ive had it written for literally years. like, all of this was leading up to this chapter in my head lol word count: 7.1 k previous chapter <- -> next chapter series masterlist

Around her was magic. Not the twisted upside-down magic of the Underground but pure beautiful shimmering magic she had once dreamt about as a young girl.

Y/N was in a ballroom – a grand ballroom with marbled floors veined in sparkling gold. Polished and shiny enough to see herself in, but that didn’t matter now as she heard the music swell and whirl in the air wondrously. Her gaze rose higher and higher, following the tall-mirrored walls to the mirrored ceilings above. With how the room curved into a circle and all the looking glass surrounding her, it made the entrance hall to the grand ball room seem to go on and on for forever. Sparkling with star dust and silver and gold. Long ivory silken curtains that held a soft glow in them towered above her, draping this way and that, hiding what she assumed to be windows of starlight and moonshine in this strange space she found herself in.

Looking ahead, opulent drapery of ancient lace and silken organza linked between marbled cornices, shimmering and glittering in between the dozens of low-hanging chandeliers that glowed with honeyed flames. Milky-beeswax dripped down the chandeliers – leaving long trails of wax in the sky. It looked as if these candles had burned for many, many hundred years; each chandelier had formed wax stalactites of different sizes and colors. Pale pinks, oranges, and blues. Strange and yet beautiful. It didn’t seem out of place and somehow only elevated the wonder of the room.  

Bubbles of varying sizes drifted into the room, sparkling unnaturally around her. They almost danced around her in a waltz, urging her to move along. Some pressed soapy kisses to her skin, her cheeks. Popping as soon as they pressed against her. It reminded her of the scene from Cinderella – the bubbles gleaming in different technicolor hues, impossible yet somehow happening before her eyes.

As she blinked about, the large room’s mirrored walls gleamed and shimmered. Winking at her. There was that magic-remnant, sparkling in the glass as if they were made of magic and not simply just a looking glass. The light and magic seemed to bounce off one another, sending a kaleidoscope of sparkles glittering into the candlelight. Y/N was reminded of soapsuds – as if the very ballroom she was standing in was an iridescent bubble.

It was holographic and lacey and wonderful. But the siren calls of the ballroom ahead intrigued her, the giggling and loud conversation clashed with the orchestral music. Taking a few tentative steps forward, she entered the verandah of the grand ballroom.

Every corner was beautiful and intriguing here, too. Opulent but not busy. Ancient but not aged. Flowers beyond anything earthly bloomed around the room. They clung to pillars, to cornices, to statues, to the floor, even to the tall mirrored ceilings. Ivy the color of rich olive and unnatural silver curled around the aging gold-gilded mirrors on the circumference of the ballroom. Blossoms of snapdragons, lyre flowers, camellias, and columbines shadowed the ceiling. Delphinium, jasmine, roses, and peach blossoms climbed down the waxy stalactites like fungus.

Gold and silver intertwined throughout the grand ballroom as she walked down the marble stairway steps to the atrium of dancers. Past a marble sculpture of some woman with twisted horns coming from her forehead, chiseled away in a scandalous attire.

It was odd, because at one glance, it was posing with her arms pressed to her chest, but if you glanced away and back, suddenly the sculpture looked different – with its hands above its head in joy. It had moved. Not in a dangerous way, but as if she itself was dancing. A statue dancing… impossible.

Y/N’s lips parted in confusion before a couple bumped into her as they hurried into the ballroom, giggling as they held their masks up to their faces before she could spot what they looked like. It was too late – they were swallowed up by the crowd, the dancing whirling bodies of opulence and extravagance distracting her.

Women were dripping in pearls and diamonds and flowers as they twirled in the large ballgowns with their breasts nearly tumbling out of their corsets. Their ballgowns consumed the ballroom’s floor in a layered mess, yet somehow none of them stumbled over the fabric in the ocean of people.

Men wore opened silken shirts and tight velvet pants that held little to the imagination as they entranced their partners. Some wore no tunic at all, simply vests of dark luxurious fabric. Sweat slick bared chests, shimmering with the magic dust she saw everywhere. Lip-sticked red mouths cackled and kissed at throats. Some men wore gowns; some women wore trousers and bore extravagant hats.

Hats and horns and wigs and façades of debauchery curled around the mass of attendees. Masks of grotesque creatures . . . of monstrous goblin faces she realized. . . were pressed to their faces as they danced about. Wrinkled greying skin, orange leathered scales, occasionally strange-looking feathers made up the masks. Hiding their youth with monstrosities. Or their monstrosity with their beauty, Y/N didn’t know.

The world was a whirling, swirling, laughing technicolor blur. The air was heady with the scent of sweat, the expensive perfumes and cologne of nobility, and the heavy aroma of the blooming flowers that hung everywhere. It felt primal in a way like a jungle.

Those who were not in the brilliant waltz were strown about the circular ballroom. Reclined in chairs or pressed against columns with tiny goblin servants stacked upon one another to reach their mouths, feeding them odd-looking fruits or pouring wine from elaborately-carved wooden goblets and shining hand-blown glass chalices. Spilt honeyed wine trailed down skin that nearby partners would lick up lasciviously with hot tongues and darkened eyes.

Y/N glanced aside, spotting multiple dips in the marble floor – pillow pits with only the finest of silks, velvets, and lace cushioning the pit into a soft escape for men and women to lethargically lean into one another’s embrace. Lovers were kissing, groping, pouring the honeyed liquid into one’s mouths. She spotted a breast freed and a lovers’ lips lock over a goblet of golden honeyed-wine before there was a whirl of a dancer in front of her gaze, blocking out things she didn’t need to see.

Her gaze left those corners of the party quickly. There was a burning on her skin. Flushing red as she felt the eyes of others sting against her skin. Fanged smiles and cruel chortles behind ornate masks and elaborately painted hand-fans. She hated the burn of the laughter; humiliation and loneliness stung.

Where was her mask? She wondered, looking down at her emptied hands.

Was that why they were laughing at her?

Another group of women rush past, giggling and chortling as they push past her. Spinning in a whirl, alone, finally, Y/N caught a look of herself for the first time since entering the ballroom. And with it, it felt like the weight of the fabric on her skin materialized. Heavy against her bones, real and heavy. Elegant and expensive.

Her gown was a mother-of-pearl color, a shimmering silver thing with a million different layers and large off-the shoulder puffed sleeves. Long sleeves covered her arms, but the fabric was not thick nor lacy but a strange shimmering skin-tight fabric. It made her arms glisten with rainbow constellations as she turned them this way or that in the ivory candle-light.

Her bodice had an intricate brocade fabric of fruit, embroidered in a silver thread that gleamed like spun starlight. Peaches, pomegranates, other organic shapes of fruits she couldn’t describe, and curling leaves made up the design with jeweled beads of sunrise pinks, yellows, oranges and sunset gold and purples embellishing her pearlescent corset. It was laborious work to make this she realized once she brushed her hands over them. They had to have been hand-sewn with how delicate they were. At the top of her sweetheart neckline, there was a constellation of sea-glass pearls, lining and guiding the eye down her corseted bodice to the gathered pooling fabric on her hips. The layers of shimmery organza and silk poured over the crinoline-lining she must’ve been wearing to achieve such a big dress.

Stepping closer to the nearby mirror, she looked closer at herself, awe in her eyes. Her face looked pretty in this light. Blurred and perfect as if there was a filter over her features. Perfect. Large curls made up her hair with portions of her locks gathered in intricate holographic silk ribbons and twisting silver metalwork, tugging it from her face. And around her neck, a necklace held those odd sea-glass pearls, transparent yet cloudy with colors of the rainbow, matching the chromatics of her dress as she twirled tentatively. The fabric swished in a pleasant way, swooshing with a watery iridescence that seemed impossible. 

She. . . was beautiful if not a bit youthfully innocent. It wasn’t a dress with slits and curve hugging fabric. Instead, she felt like a princess. Like a magical illustration of a princess from the fairytales she loved.

Approaching one of the nearby mirrored walls, her hand reached out to touch her reflection. Reverently. Disbelieving. In the reflection, she spotted eyes on her again. Too many eyes in fact. Many of the dancers were watching her from behind their mask. Even while they twirled about, they seemed to turn their necks at unnatural angles just to keep their shadowed eyes on her, at all times. Darkened eyes that seemed to watch her every movement. It was a bit eerie. She felt like prey.

She didn’t like that.

Turning, she caught a glance of blonde hair and winter eyes. She gasped at the glimpse of him in between the throngs of dancers. Just barely. He quickly disappeared into the crowds. Vanished. She stood there trying to find him again – like spotting a pearlescent fish in a net of writhing carp.

“You’re her?” a voice murmured.

It was a man – young and handsome enough despite the mask – yet as he brazenly stared at her, up and down her shoulders, breasts, hips, and finally her face, she felt a mixture of disgust and . . . pleasure. His foxy-goblin mask hugged his face tightly, only making his eyes visible. His leering eyes. She couldn’t see if his eyes were curled into a smirk or a frown or a grin.

“A pretty thing.”

She could recall being called pretty by few (recently, it was from the Direwoods), but she disliked how he crowed it out in a laugh as if it was game. A joke. A polite smile of nervousness consumed her beautiful face before she crept back and away. Into the throngs of people, Y/N got swept into the whirlwind of twirling bodies.

Jostled this way and that by the dancers, she entered a new world of mingling and warmth (despite the cold, clammy skin she touched as she tried to pass by the party-goers.) What was this party even for?

As she passed by a horde of closely entwined dancers, she spotted a group huddled around a masked magician who was tugging out oddities from a floppy hat. Puppets of frightening figures and monster-like creatures bellowed in the uproarious music as the viewers laughed.

It was then she could hear the music for what felt like the first time. Truly heard it. What once was something pleasant began to grow into a loud cacophony. Harpsichordal piano, overly powerful, and discordant. A concertina aerophone harmoniced out in a bumbling sound. There was a violin stringing higher and higher. It felt like the song was spinning out of control. Y/N was shoved forward from the arms of a passing dancing couple as they tossed and turned violently in a tango.

She was jostled toward the masked magician whose deep eyes caught her attention as he tugged out what looked like a princess doll, dressed in the same iridescent mother of pearl cloth her dress was cut from. A chill shot through her heart as the man’s shadowed gaze rose to her and gave her a plump lipped smile.

His mouth moved up and down, but she couldn’t hear his words among the chortles and cackles of the others around her. She was shoved this way and that in the ocean of people. Her eyes darted this way and that away as she tried to maintain her balance only to see him again.

He wasn’t passing by or among the dancers or entertainers. No, he was on the outskirts of the masses. Far from her. Back to a twisting pillar, Hyunjin’s eyes were on her even as multiple scantily-clad women draped themselves over him. Bare-chested against him and whispering something in his ear. Lips sticking to his skin as they did so. He never looked at them. He smiled, eyes hooded as he tilted his head at her, acknowledging her as his mouth quipped a reply to the masked woman on one of his arms. In his hand was a lyre flower – the petal forming an almost organic shape, like it was a reddened heart clasped in between his metal-tipped fingers. He fondled it, tilting his head as her.

A wave of heat filled her cheeks – watching the encounter felt strange. His focus was solely on her, and it felt simmering and ever-present even as he ignored the near-nude women about him. There was a poof of magic beside her. The smell of fire-smoke filled her face. She coughed, waving the smoke aside to. Glancing back at the magician in front of her, she saw that now he held a goblin doll rather than the princess doll. The smoke lingered in the air, musky against the opulent sweet aroma of the ballroom.

The party-goers hooted and crowed out excitements. It grated against her ears. Flinching, she glanced back towards Hyunjin, only to find him gone, and the women busied by whirling about with one another now.

Despair. Devastating and consuming despair. Like someone had taken her favorite stuffed animal as a child away. Unreasonably strong. It overwhelmed her. Widened eyes, her head swiveled this way and that to find him. Just once more. Surely… He had to be… he was just there. He had to be nearby. Maybe he was coming her way and she didn’t see him. He was just there.

It made her skin crawl like maggots were creeping up and down her back. She didn’t know why she needed to find him in this ballroom. She didn’t know why she needed to see him, or what she would say or do. She just felt it in the pit of her stomach that it was important to find him. That she should find him. She had to. She had to.

So, Y/N began to wander once more, dodging dancers and minding her step over flowing, long dresses. Tiny goblins seemed to race around the dancers; sometimes they dove beneath dresses to appear on the other side. One even tugged at her gown, scrambling up the fabric with clawed hands. Chittering in a language she could understand as it stared with large yellowed eyes. She jolted backwards. Back hitting a column painfully, flower petals rained down over her in a floral shower.

The goblin startled at that and jumped away onto the marble floor, chattering with sharp teeth at her before scurrying away. A man beside her, lounging in a nearby chair, smirked at her with fanged teeth before offering a glass of something honeyed and alcoholic smelling. The goblet sloshed this way and that, leaving iridescent puddles on the ground. She ignored him and pushed herself up to continue her search for him.

And there was plenty of encouragement. She. Kept. Seeing. Him. If only for a moment, from the corner of her eye. Like a phantom he’d escape her sight, only to appear at the other side of the room. Smirking, smiling, glancing her way before disappearing again.

He was dressed in a deep-cobalt, crushed-velvet long coat with beadwork that matched hers. Sea-glass pearls that seemed to sparkle like caught stars in the candlelight made up the constellations over his shoulders. The inner fabric of his coat gleamed a mother-of-pearl lining, matching hers. His blonde hair was styled in wind-swept waves as if a lover had run their hands through it in an embrace. His pout of a mouth that smirked sharp as always was visible, but his eyes were shadowed by a masquerade mask now. He held the mask to his face, the grotesque thing held up on a clawed hand-like stick. At some point, the mask was stuck to his face instead as he promenaded in between her sight. And then it was on a stick once more.

She was going in circles around the room, chasing after the disappearing King. Head in circles, she felt woozied for a moment. Delirious and blurred. The music triumphed into a loud crescendo. There was a static hum, a taste of ozone on her tongue. She was pushed and pulled by the ocean of people, wrapped up in a dance alone amongst the throng.

It was beyond frustrating. She wanted to talk to him… dance with him. Tears pricked her eyes as she felt a pang in her chest. A prick of a headache behind her eyes. An uproar in laughter, a screech of the almost-violin-like instrument playing in the large room, and she was approaching what felt like an emotional cliff. Stuffy faced and irritable and insecure and alone – her dress was heavied and her arms itched and her face was hot and the room reeked of rotting magnolias.

“Dearest one,” a voice murmured deeply, finally swooping her up into his arms after the long foreplay of their chase.

Arms that were cool to the touch, velvet soft under her overheated fingers as she sagged faintly into his arms.

In that moment, it felt like someone had dimmed the lights. Like they had quieted the world. Dampened her uneasy emotions. Everything zeroed in on him. His mask was on the tip of his nose still, a goblin grotesque facade. But, she could see his shimmering dark blue eyes and his berry-bitten full lips.

“Hyunjin,” she let out a sigh.

Her hands rose to his cheeks naturally so, almost as if she wasn’t in control of her own body. His eyes fluttered shut, pleasantly smiling as she removed his mask. Its waxy texture felt sticky like clay under her fingertips as she pried it from his skin with a suction-esque sound. Like, it was one with his skin until she pried it away. It fell away from her fingertips easily, shattering to the floor. Her hands returned to his smooth tawny skin. His face was perfect, like a sculpture carved meticulously. His face had a youthful flush at her gentleness, a honeyed-blush bloomed over his cheeks, over the bridge of his nose.

A reverent sigh escaped her as Y/N stroked over his cheek carefully. Her thumb grazed over a mole beneath his eye; she had never seen it before. He was cool to the touch, but it felt less like a corpse’s skin and more as if he had been out in the evening rain. A fantasy of him waiting for her with an umbrella came to mind. Romantic.

He breathed out slow, and smiled fondly. One of his own hands rose to caress her cheek. His metal-clawed fingers would never harm her; she knew that. They simply tickled over her blushed skin. His stroke of her cheek was slow as dripping nectar from a flower’s petal, as if he was savoring her skin against his.

“Y/N,” he said sweetly, dipping his head to press his forehead against hers.

His curled bangs pressed against her skin; his horned crown just grazed the top of her head. He pulled her closer, shifting his arms to cradle her securely. Yes, his arms felt right. This felt oh so right. Like a wonderfully soft dream. Her dizzied head eased in his grasp.

“Shall we dance?” he murmured with his mouth close to her ear.

His breath wasn’t warm; no, it was cool and damp as a cave’s interior. The question felt less like a question as he began to sway them. She nodded just a bit, oblivious to the world around her.

The other fae brushing around her didn’t bother her as they continued their wild waltz. The Goblin King did not join the frenzied dance with her, but instead kept their dance to a gentle swaying. Intimate and slow and just what she had needed.

Her hands grasped his arms, nervously. Fingers pressed against his velveteen coat. Almost as if he’d be lost again. But with a curve of his lip and a flash of his intimate eyes, he pulled her ever-closer.

“I’m here,” he whispered, reassuringly gently. “I’ve got you.”

And it did ease her in to a sense of calm, like the sky full of rolling clouds on a sunny day.

There was just a strange melodic tune between them; the grand hapriscordal cacophony traded for a sort of bass-like sound, strumming out chords in a soothing repeating tempo. A piano-esque metallic instrument chimed out in the gentle lullaby.

“You’re beautiful, Y/N,” he admitted, swirling them in a circle to the rhythm.

His shadowed eyes did not wander down her chest, her bare arms, or her neck. They locked onto her eyes. All of his attention was on her.

“So beautiful,” he sighed, neck bending as he leaned close as if he’d kiss her. His breath was cold as it fanned against her face.

“So strong.” His eyes were reverent.

(His Labyrinth-Runner, his body hummed as he smiled with such wicked loveliness.)

Compliments made the back of her neck tingle and burn pleasantly. Far better than the man who had leered at her earlier in the night. When was that? Oh yes, it felt like she had been wandering and tossed about for hours. Her feet ached, snug in tight, sharp shoes. If she had tugged aside her many layers of organza and lace, she’d see them to be the princess-perfect glass slippers. Ones she had dreamed about growing up.

How unrealistic.

As if reading her mind, Hyunjin’s hands shifted to grasp her waist, firmly lifting her into a promenade of an elevated spin. Her arms draped over his broad shoulders to support herself as she left her shoes behind on the polished floor. A mimicry of a Cinderella caught.

She gasped, hugging close to him. Hyunjin buried himself into the softness of her waist as she clung to him. Slowly, he lowered her, sliding he down until her feet touched the tops of his shoes. He kept her in his clutch, holding her close and off the ground. Bosum pressed into his chest intimately.

“My Princess,” he cooed, swaying this way and that. “Swept of her feet, all mine, hm?”

He grazed his nose over her cheek fondly. 

She felt his chuckle, like a low tumbling rumble of the Earth. There was an echo of laughter from his subjects around them. Like they were in on a joke she wasn’t privy to. She glanced over at the dancers among them; they were watching them intently. It made that eerie feeling bubble up, breaking the ocean of calm that had once washed over her.

His nose nudged hers, gently redirecting her gaze from the carousel of masked figures about them to him once more.

He smiled, fanged teeth sparkling in the light as he rose her up again by her waist and spun her about. Flower petals tumbled around them in a magic whirl, catching on her hair, her sweatied skin, his jacket.

As he continued their waltz, her bare toes rested on his, depending on him to move her this way and that. A spare hand rose to pluck a petal from her hair, presenting it to her; the petal transforming into a blossoming ivory foxglove before her eyes. He indulged in her wonder; in the innocent way, her shiny eyes flickered from the flower to him in surprise.

He tucked the flower behind her ear, delicately.

“How do you feel?” he asked her lowly, swaying soothingly like the way the waves of the sea magnetically roll with the moon.

“I feel –“ she murmured, tilting her head to look around at the world spinning about.

They’d been dancing for how long? Shimmering magic and sweat stuck to her skin. His breath like cool peach and hot honey-mead, engulfed her senses. Eyes flickering shut, overwhelmed by the scent, his touch, the humid heat of the ballroom.

“Wonderful?” he filled in, lips brushing tantalizingly against her blushed cheek.

He could almost taste the scattered remnant of magic across her skin. Nearly taste her iron-blood just at the surface from how ruby red her cheeks had become.

Salt sweat and sweet magic made a delicious potion.

Hyunjin sighed deeply, his sharp tongue dodging out as he pressed a tender deep kiss to the side of her jaw, too low to be considered simply a kiss upon her cheek. He would’ve moaned if it was his dreams.

“Is this not what you dreamt of, dearest?” he cooed in her ear, spinning her about once more. “I can do far more than these balls. I can do anything you want - you just need ask, properly.”

Flashes of burning desires and demanding needs crossed her mind like wildfire. Things she couldn’t explain or begin to put words to. It was feelings as deep as the darkest of oceans and as difficult to place as a tide underneath the waves. It was golden-spun day-dreams and valentine evenings with phantom kisses to her skin haunted her and an irresistible satiation in her bones heavied her as if she were lost in the galaxy, cool and yet burning. Warmed skin pressed against cool, fingers intertwined. Moans into red mouths, fangs clashing against one another. Flickers of feather-soft embraces amongst flowers, amongst sand, amongst the dirt. Painted pastel mornings, a golden sun outside a balcony looking out over the Labyrinth as she laid in the softest of beds. Warm and comfortable and at peace and not-alone.

Never alone, for he was there. Always.

Hyunjin. No…the Goblin King. Her King. Her ruler. Her Everything.

Every molecule of her was for him. Everything for his eyes only… Even now, as they twirled amongst nobility, she knew he allowed it. She was his after all.

His eyes. Gone were the frozen deep blue eyes that struck an odd sense of defiance in her – and instead – his eyes were glimmering like a pale jewel in a wedding band, like the summer ocean at mid-day. As if she was staring at the bluest sky from the field of flowers. Warm. They were a warm azure. No longer cold and cruel. Why would he ever look at her with cruelty?

His cupid-bowed lips did not smirk and sneer and mock but tempted as they spread into a heart-stopping wide smile as he laughed lowly in her fantasy. Gone were the oil-slick metallic velvets and opened shirts and tight leathered pants. Replaced with soft linens of pearlescent fabric that only highlighted his tawny-tan skin which sparkled with the magic coursing in his veins, making him faintly glisten and glow as if he were an angel.

He was. He was her Everything. Angel, savior, king, lover.

It was like seeing a different man. A man that was only for her. A side of him only for her.

Only when she was his would she see this. Behind closed doors he could be this.

Not a King of the Underground, not the Goblin King. Simply the ruler of her heart. King of her. And if he controlled her, didn’t she control him? What a sweet fooled heart she had.

Flickers of a daydream continued. The sky would be lit up by stars, countless glowing star that held their love. Each twinkling as he pointed them to her, whispered words of how they were strung in the sky for her. This one was devotion, that one her love, that one was his desire. The way he’d consume her bite by bite, kiss by kiss, in the darken rich soil they laid in. Fingers interlaced as her eyes rolled back. The way her skin would cool to a cavern temperature for eternity just to remain in his arms. Here, there was no pain. No injured body. Her fangs didn’t hurt any longer. Her eyes would blink up at a cavern sky. And her memory was a faded hazy thing that was full of him, him, him.

Her king, her king, her king.

That’s all she could think as she blink, blink, blinked at him as they swirled into another twirl on the dance floor. Hyunjin smiled soft as he saw her eyes soften into such a cotton candy gentleness.

She’d want for nothing. Laying amongst silks and satins. Feeding upon fae fruit, the nectar dripping down the column of her throat only for him to lick up greedily. No, no, he wasn’t greedy. She was his after all. Anything he wanted he received.

“Dearest one,” he hummed.

His voice pulled her up from the sea of daydreams she was drowning in. He looked different again. His eyes still that soft blue like the moon on a cool night. His clothes were the white linens she had dreamt of him in before in a blink he was back in the blue-velvet suit. A hand raised to tuck large curls behind her ear only to rest on the column of her neck afterwards. “Is this not what you’ve dreamt of?”

Balls of wonder, pretty dresses, nights of ecstasy, happily ever after with a King. Princess sweet and soft. Sheltered and doted upon. Protected in a high tower above a difficult Challenge. A proper fairytale.

Her eyes blurred as she was spun once more, whirled out of her daydreams as her mind tried to catch up to what was around her. Had his clothes just changed? What? How did that happen?

“I – don’t know what to think,” she admitted as she was whirled around again.

A loud cackle by her ear echoed out. . . almost as loud as the toll of a grandfather clock. A clock?

Her head turned as they twirled again. The people around them felt suffocatingly close and the music that had been soothing, once again battered up into a harpsichordical tune, unnerving and discordant. Clashing of melodies soft and loud, bad.

Bad, bad, bad - why did she feel so bad? So unlike herself?

Her arms and legs tingled like television static and she tried to steady herself while she grasped his hand in hers as she returned from the spin outwards.

Her eyes met his again, and he smiled so kindly and calmly like the images that flashed before her eyes. Yet she saw a flash of something knowing in the gleam of his eyes, a laughing cruelty in his eyes from the dungeons. Dungeons, she pondered? What dungeons? There were no dungeons in his arms.

She felt trapped suddenly. Itchy and buzzing. Aching and sweaty. Real. She felt real for a brief moment before she felt his hand smooth over her bodice until it eased up and down her back, soothingly.

But, it didn’t ease her stomach as she was thrown into a dizzy whirl again. They were dancing in a circle, a whirl of a waltz, less calm like before. Her neck gave out, her head lulling back and her eyes flashing to the chandeliers above. The candles were flickering rapid and erratic; there was a breeze kicked up from the ball room’s dancing. The room smelled of peach flowers. Bubbles floated about like perfect baubles of glimmering light.

A hand went to cup the back of her neck, supporting her as Hyunjin pulled her upright. Her bare feet lifted once more. He held her entire weight then and there as he kept her close. Her arms were lose around him.

There was a purse in between his brows, but he still smiled at her. Patient blue eyes. His blonde hair looked darker in this light she wondered. The shadows of his crown making it look almost as if the blonde grew darker at his roots. His horned crown sat upon his perfect head. Not a tiara, a crown. He was a King, not a Prince. He was so handsome she noted. How could a man with such wicked cruelty be so lovely? It was magical. He was magical. Fae magic. . . dreamy fae magic. Her thoughts were scrambled about like a poorly mixed potion.

“You’ve found a way to your dreams, Y/N,” he confided, his voice somehow perfectly clear in her ear despite the brash music.

“Stay in your dream. . . where you are truly free and wholly yourself. The truest form of yourself. You want that, dear one?”

His lips were hypnotizing. Her stomach bubbled like champagne in a flute. Butterflies aching to be released from the cage of her ribs as she saw him lick over the plushness of his mouth.

And she nodded. Like a marionette.

“Don’t abandon it,” he shifted his hold on her. “Don’t leave it behind – if you leave behind your dreams, your wish, you’ll be at the mercy of other people again and again. Forget them. Trust to your dream.” He lamented, divulged, and pled.

Spellbound, the smell of honey-suckle on a hot day burned her nose as she leaned in closer. Hyunjin grinned, none of it warm nor soft suddenly.  

“Trust to me,” he commanded sharply, moving in closer and closer. “Give in to me.”

His breath was akin to a corpse’s chill, and he now reeked of rotted peach blossoms. Of magic and dreams and lies. He did not kiss her yet his lips pressed to her cheek. Only a breath away from her parted lips. They were clammy against her overheated skin.

Her stomach turned as the people around her laughed and chortled. She felt too close to Hyunjin. His skin felt deathly cold and clammy and she was too hot and her dress was too tight and heavy and they were spinning oh too fast. How could they be spinning this much? She shut her eyes tight.

“Believe in me only me,” he whispered, lips trailing over flushed cheeks before stealing a kiss on her lips, startling her eyes open wide. A clock chimed distantly, and she felt her skin burn with his affections. His lips tasted of pomegranates, the dust of a crypt, fizzing candies, and fire-smoke. It muddled her senses as he kept her close, breathing her in. His kiss was insistent as he indulged in her.

“Only I can be your dream-maker.” He pulled away just enough for the words to be shared between their lips. “You need me.”

Her eyes fluttered, and he hummed lowly in his chest, a melody that was distant and familiar. Only I can be your dream-maker whirled in her head like the dancers’ promenade.

That wasn’t true.

A clock tolled again. A clock. . . her eyes fluttered open – when had they shut again? - as she felt hands that were scaly and furry and goblinesque trail over her arms and her bared back. She glanced aside when she felt claws, and saw a goblin mask so large and leathery leering into her gaze. Women chortled and men guffawed at her. She felt small, as small as those goblins she had seen running about.

Hyunjin tugged her close, cheek pressed against crushed blue velvet. The smell of rotten flowers on a hot day overwhelmed her, sickening her. The curve of a smile, triumphant pressed into her hair. She could see a clock distantly – golden and grand with its curling numbers - as another toll cracked in her head.

The burn of laughter around her, only Hyunjin could protect her from here. Why were they laughing? What was the clock for? Why did Hyunjin’s grasp hurt? He needed to protect her; she couldn’t do anything. Helpless. It wasn’t fair.

It wasn’t fair.

You say that so often.

Where had she heard that before?

The dungeon. The dungeons… Wait, wasn’t she doing something? Why was she here? Why. . . ?

“Stop,” she whispered out; the words feeling like peanut butter was stuck in her throat.

The Goblin King’s eyes widened as she writhed in his grasped. Her hands pushed him away and, with weakened arms, he let her. Her feet tumbled to the floor, sliding against polished tile; her skirt pouring out across the floor as she fell. A startle in the crowd. Her breath gasped; the corset was so tight - how had she not noticed? Glancing up, the attendees were staring down at her with matching blue eyes. Mockery, laughter, anger. Copies of the eyes she knew so well. She heaved herself up at once. She had to get out of here. She wasn’t supposed to be here. Her large dress rammed into the other dancers as she pushed at the crowd. There were shrieks and wails as the clock tolled out another hour. Then another.

A huff left her as she looked around the ballroom. She hadn’t been here before. No - how’d she get here? She can’t even remember getting here in the first place. How did she end up here?

Her eyes met Hyunjin’s with a heat. Cruelty in her eyes, a betrayal of sorts. He simply looked on at her, tall and still among the jostling, jeering crowds. Furred and clawed hands reached out to tug and pull at her, masked faces with no consequences to their actions. She pushed away a woman who draped herself against her back, making her sag against their weight.

“Please, my Lady,” she had pleaded as she shoved with her might.

My Lady. . . as if she belonged here. She didn’t. She wouldn’t.

She would be a spellbound pet to the King. A fae’s human plaything. That wasn’t reality. It wasn’t a reality that would be good. Despite all its wonderousness, all she could remember was the burning emptiness. The shell of herself was all that woman was.

She had something to finish… she didn’t know what. But she couldn’t be here. It wasn’t here. C’mon, Y/N, remember. Grasping the heavy dress-skirts (heavier now, as if they were soaked in rain-water, she noted), she turned and ran.

Where was the stairwell? Where was the exit? Where even was the ballroom? Was she in the Castle? Stolen away to the prize without knowing. No. . . no. . . Hyunjin wouldn’t do that. That’s too close. Too close to her winning that he wouldn’t risk it. He was clever. He was goddamn clever. A burning feeling in her chest was difficult to decipher – was it hatred or admiration? Y/N was confused. She pushed past party-goers with little grace, huffing out in pain as they collided with her.

She couldn’t find any way out. She was met with endless mirrored walls, the shimmering reflection of a debauched dream staring back at her. Like the bubbles around her. A bubble. This place felt like a bubble that could pop.

With a grit of her teeth, she let go of her dress’ skirts in a shimmering flutter of fabric and grabbed a resting chair from nearby. Slamming it into the mirror, there was a tremble beneath her icy bared feet. Frightened and uneasy, she shut her eyes as she slammed the chair into the membrane of the pearlescent mirrored bubble again. And again. And again. Until the world shook and shattered in a whirlwind of screams and yells.

And she was falling - down, down with the world.

-

The Labyrinth-Runner’s eyes flashed open. She was no longer in the forest-flowers nor in a ballroom of debauchery, but lying still in an unknown darkened space. A starry sort of light gleamed high above her. Haloed in the light, she looked down to see she was in her own battered clothes again. In her hand was the fae fruit she had bitten into. The flesh was rotten-brown, the juices sticky in between her fingers, and the smell akin to rotten fruit in the humid sun. A maggot crawled from the decaying pit towards her palm. With a yell, she threw it to the side. A wave of nausea hit her.

Vomiting to the side, she huffed and panted before fainting backwards into a familiar bed.

-

Hyunjin’s own eyes flashed open as the fae fruit’s dream was shattered. He could still taste the magic on his tongue mingling with the iron-salt of her lips. He licked his plump rose-petaled lips with his tongue, savoring the taste.

She was so sweet.

She was strong.

She was a good challenge.

Breaking free from a spell was difficult and yet she had. She had manipulated the world around to remind her of her challenge and, with that, Hyunjin admired her. Yes, a part of him even preened that he would have such a clever human soon. A Changeling of his own with devotion only for him.

Her eyes, her eyes, oh, her eyes. He had seen paradise, a promise of her love and her dreams that he could fulfill. Her eyes had shined so sweetly. Her lips were petal roses, curling so gentle into a smile that he wanted all to himself. She was a wonder. How could a human be so intoxicating? He’d make her his. A puppet princess who only cared for him. No betrayals. No others to keep her attention. She’d be all for him. She was different than the others. His Runner was tempting and clever and all the things fae loved.

She had made it far, so much further than any Runner he had seen, but he’ll up the ante. She’ll see his strength. Marvel at his powers! She’d willingly give in once she sees!

He stood from his throne with his trembling hands pushing back raven hair. His breathing was heavied.

He can’t lose.

He walked out the door of the mystical throne room, locking it behind iron-lock and key. He needed his Grimorie. Where had he put it? Magic danced over his fingertips, anxious hands tip-tapping against his palms. His eyes looked wild as he searched among drunk goblins and rambunctious subjects.

He can’t lose.

He would not lose to her. He wouldn’t fall to his Runner. He must win this game.  

He wanted her to be his forever.

For Hyunjin had hopelessly fallen under her spell.