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htaesan · 2 months ago

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　ᅠ ✿　ᅠ IT’S THE THOUGHT THAT COUNTS　　────　ᅠ ( park sungho )

𝓹recis ⠀ : ⠀love, to park sungho, is just a waste of time. yet when he falls for you (literally), he might just change his mind.

　　　ᅠ 박성호 ⠀⠀◜◡◝ ⠀⠀𝒇 reader ⠀wc 1.7k ⠀ genre love at first sight fluff meet-cute baker / cafe au ⠀ contains mentions of food profanities ⠀ note my first fic here AND my first bnd work ever! sungho's just awkward in here kekeke (actually idk what i'm writing here) ⠀ tagging @a-dream-bookmark ,@/k-labels , @k-nets , @k-films , @sgz-net

　　　ᅠ ＞︿　　please leave feedbacks 　　& 　　reblog

Sungho wasn’t the type to easily fall in love. To him, love is a waste of time and money—why would you pour your heart, time, and effort out to someone who you won’t even spend the rest of your life with? All of his friends, from different points of his life, have tried various ways to get his heart hooked onto a girl. But, of course, none of their attempts proved successful. To everyone around Sungho, he’s just a cute guy with a heart of stone.

However, after 20 years of letting Sungho decide for himself, the universe decided to catalyse the whole entire reaction for him—pushing the future love of his life into his face, right at his workplace, where he had only recently gotten a job at.

Literally.

“Oh my god…”

You blink confusedly—one second ago, you were getting up from your seat to go grab the drinks the barista had prepared for you. Now, you’re on the floor, with lattes spilled over your clothes, and your back slightly aching from the impact.

“What the f—oh my goodness, I’m so sorry,” Sungho says, scrambling to his feet. How could he be so stupid? Knocking a customer down and drenching the lattes in her hand all over her is certainly going to ruin his perfect reputation. Quickly, Sungho reaches out his hand, offering it to you.

You look up, eyes widened. Was this handsomely cute guy the one who pushed you to the floor, having both of your drinks soaking your clothes? You blink again, perplexed, as you try to take in the situation.

“Oh, yes,” you mumble, taking his hand, realising that people are watching.

“I’m really, really sorry, ma’am. I didn’t mean to–”

“It’s okay,” you say through your polite smile. As you steady yourself, you look down on your outfit and realise that it is certainly… not.

Sungho watches you analyse the situation of your latte-drenched clothes with eyes widened in horror. He panickedly searches for napkins in his apron and his pockets, and hands you a crumpled one he’s found in his pocket. “Here.”

You give him a chuckle. “It won’t really help a lot but,” you pause, grabbing the napkin from him, “it’s the thought that counts, hm?”

Bingo.

As you smile, tingles rush through Sungho’s skin. He’s suddenly hyper aware of how his arm is still extended awkwardly, long after you’ve received the napkin. His eyes blink forcedly as he retracts his hand. Sungho gulps, weirdly feeling faint.

“Well,” you chuckle sheepishly. “It’s getting awkward—I should go back to my table. Thanks for the napkin,” your eyes look at the name tag pinned to his apron, “Sungho.”

You give him one final smile before walking away, oblivious to Sungho’s tongue-tied state.

“Yo, Sungho,” he hears Dongmin, the barista, call. “Are you gonna just stand there or what? The mess ain’t gonna clean itself, you know.”

Sungho then burst himself out of his daze, scurrying to clean up the mess, ignoring the eyes of people in the cafe. As he’s mopping the final traces of the homemade tomato sauce off the floor, his eyes catch a glimpse of you—laughing angelically, illuminated by the sunlight shining through the window.

That was two weeks ago. And Sungho is desperately trying to get rid of this fluttering in his empty stomach, one that he feels every single time his brain replays the scene in his mind.

Love is a waste of time, he repeats to himself like a daily mantra.

However, Sungho knows that repeating that isn’t doing anything to combat the fact that his cheeks are heating up every single time he sees you walk into the cafe. And, certainly, hiding behind the fresh baskets of bread he baked this morning and eavesdropping on you ordering your menu for the day isn’t a really good solution, either.

“What the hell, Sungho?” Dongmin hisses. “You almost hit me!”

Sungho smiles sheepishly. “Sorry, Min.”

“Welcome to The Boy Next Door. Good morning, Y/N,” Sungho’s attention is pulled to Donghyun, the part-time barista, who’s greeting you. You smile back, leaning against the counter as you think of what to get for the day.

“Good morning, Donghyun,” you nod.

“What’s the occasion today? Assignments or an online meeting that you can’t be bothered to take at home?” Donghyun asks, giggling.

You laugh with him. “I need a quick brunch—I have a nail appointment after this. What do you suggest?”

Maybe it’s the love hormones, or maybe it’s the fact that Sungho’s completely bewitched for you—he stands upright, eyes staring straight at you. Without hesitation, he voices, “you should try the Mushroom Cream Pasta—it’s my own recipe.”

Regret flushes through Sungho as your eyes widen with surprise. “O-oh! Sungho, I didn’t see you there,” you say with a fond look that makes Sungho’s heart pump even faster than it already is.

“Sungho… what are you doing?” Donghyun questions.

“I…”

Cover this up quickly, you idiot.

Sungho gives you a small grin. “Well, I just heard that you wanted a brunch… idea? So, I gave you one!”

You laugh, and it hits Sungho right in the heart. “Alright, I’ll take one of the Mushroom Cream Pasta,” you tell Donghyun, who nods in response.

“You’ll be cooking it for me, right, Sungho?”

Yes, ma’am.

And that’s how Sungho found himself in the kitchen, eagerly yet nervously cooking up a pasta dish for the girl he’s somehow grown shy of. As he’s tossing the ingredients together, Sungho thinks about your laughter—how angelic he finds it, and how it makes your eyes crinkle so cutely. As he’s grating the cheese into the pan of pasta, Sungho’s reminded of his “meet-cute” with you—how cool you sounded when you shrugged off his frantic apologies, instead of getting worked up about it like some other customers do. As he’s carefully plating the dish with rather shaky hands, Sungho confirms to himself—he might just have a tiny crush on you: one of The Boy Next Door’s loyal customers. Cupid’s cheering in the background—his arrows had hit the target, exactly where it’s needed: right at Park Sungho’s heart.

“Here… you go,” Sungho manages with a small voice. He stands rigidly at your table, his arms tightly kept next to his body. He forces a polite smile, secretly wishing that you wouldn’t notice his nervousness.

“Are you usually this awkward… or is it just me?” you ask, laughing at how wide his eyes get at your question.

Sungho quickly shakes his head. “No! Certainly not, I’m not… usually... awkward…”

You laugh again. “Well, then it’s just me.”

If it were totally up to Sungho, he’d love to just take a seat in front of you and watch you eat. However, the universe isn’t totally on his side, so he excuses himself to go tend to another customer’s order.

“Hey, man,” Dongmin says, catching Sungho’s attention. He looks up from the salmon sandwich he’s constructing. “Is it just me or you’re just weirdly obsessed with that girl by the window?”

Sungho’s eyes widen in surprise, and he gives a train of awkward laughs. “What? No… what are you talking about?”

No, you know what he’s talking about.

“Dude, even a five year old can catch up on it,” Dongmin rolls his eyes. He ruffles his hair before continuing. “You better shoot your shot before it’s too late—I think she’s just waiting for you to ask at this point.”

“Huh?” Sungho says, handing the finished plate to Lia, another coworker who passed by.

“Are you really dense or what?” Dongmin replies, laughing. He pats Sungho’s shoulder before signalling towards you. “Y/N, right? Just go tell her you like her.”

Flabbergasted, Sungho freezes. His eyes widen in realisation, and everything starts to kick in.

He actually likes someone.

He likes you.

Dongmin is just teasing him, trying to get him to like you—however, little did he know that this isn’t a simple tease that Sungho would ignore.

“It’s a fucking wake up call,” Sungho mutters to himself. “I… finally like someone.”

However, being a man with no experience of approaching a girl he likes, Sungho remains at his post, arranging freshly baked pastries as he waits for you to finish your meal and pass by him when you walk out of the cafe.

“Sungho!” you exclaim, rushing towards him.

“Yeah?” he replies, breathless somehow.

You smile shyly. “Thanks for the meal—I mean, for cooking it. It’s really good! I love it.”

Sungho mirrors your smile. “You do?” he laughs, “oh—oh my God! I- that’s such a relief! I really– I really thought it’d be horrible or something, you know, I’m afraid I accidentally put in sugar instead of salt, and sour cream instead of the normal one… you know?”

You nod, still smiling. “It’s really good, Sungho. I’d eat it again next time I need brunch.”

“Of course! Yeah, yeah. Of… course,” Sungho nods, eyes darting here and there.

“Also, may I ask you something?” you continue.

Sungho tilts his head as he narrows his eyes a little. “Sure, of course.”

Taking a deep breath, you say, “did I… do something wrong? To you? ‘Cause all you’ve been doing these past couple of weeks is avoiding me whenever I come in…”

Sungho sucks his breath through gritted teeth, pinching the bridge of his nose. He exhales heavily before replying. “Are you… willing to hear me out?”

“Yeah, of course,” you nod. “Make it quick though, I have a nail appointment soon..”

“So, this is really really awkward—’cause we’re talking in the middle of the cafe, and I’m holding bread tongs as I’m speaking—I told my friends for the past twenty years that I’d never fall in love, and that love is a waste of my time but then I kinda fell in love and I would absolutely love it if you gave me the honour of becoming your boyfriend,” Sungho says, in one go, without taking a breath in between his words.

“Oh.” is all you’re able to manage.

“So,” Sungho gives you a smile. “I know the… first impression isn’t great but I could make your second impression of me better?”

You laugh, giving him a napkin that you’ve neatly folded into a heart and written your phone number on it earlier. “Actually, it’s the third impression. And of course, feel free to make it better than the pasta you made me just now.”

― © htaesan, 2025.

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duskier · 5 months ago

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Invisible man but it's toxic Ghoap x reader ...

cw: this is literally just ghoap mentally torturing reader and there are mentions of them intending to kill the reader 🫶

Them having access to fictional sounding levels of military technology and getting two suits of their own that allow them to go completely invisible- suits designed to even erase their shadows via a complex system of reflections and lights.

Of course, you're the first thing to come to mind when they put them on. You were their favorite barista at a café close to base. You probably didn't remember them out of your sea of regulars, but they never stopped thinking about you, a mutual fixation on you blooming between them. They start out small, breaking and entering in the middle of the night. Unplugging your phone from the charger so you wake up without an alarm, the battery long dead. Turning off power to your fridge and leaving the doors open, the food spoiled by the time you wake up.

The best part of the suits is they get to stick around and watch your devastation. Scrambling out of bed with a panicked, half asleep noise, putting on the first set of work clothes you can find. Soap leaning against your fridge so he can get a full look at your face as it crumples at the sight, your vegetables wilted and your meat already smelling.

Ghost takes it a step further after nights of keeping you awake with strange knocks around the house or precious items crashing to the floor. Soap has to bite his lip to keep from giggling as they take turns whispering your name in the night. They wait a few minutes between while they watch you peer into the dark, breath shaking in your chest in fear. You look so adorable with your eyes wide and darting about, like a pretty little thing of prey in your thin tank top and comfy panties. Like you're just waiting to be eaten.

Ghost brushes by Soap, hands reaching out purposefully to give his hand a squeeze. A silent command to stay. Soap is left waiting with you, continuing to admire how vulnerable you look. All it does is leave his cock swelling in the pants, fantasizing about ways he could get you to make that pretty frightened face for him more directly. Soap couldn't wait to get his hands on you, make you feel real weakness under his grip. They weren't going to fuck with you forever, this was just them playing with their food. A sort of foreplay. He wonders if you'd cry, if you'd beg for your life. Or would you try and play along, in hopes they'd spare you? Would you try to fight back, could you maybe land a blow on him? Soap palms himself quietly, careful to not let your now focused hearing catch him in the act. He really hopes you can split his lip or something, leave a scar to remember you by.

The both of you startle as suddenly you hear Ghost bellowing your name from somewhere on the first floor. His voice is so loud, so angry, it barely sounds human and is left ringing in your ears for a full minute after. You're paralyzed with fear, hyperventilating now. Before you could snap out of it and reach for your phone, you screamed at the feeling of a hand gripping your ankle and yanking you to the foot of the bed.

There was nothing and no one there. Even in the limited light you could tell that you were alone. This must have been a break in your psyche, you reassured yourself, just because you haven't been sleeping well and things have been going wrong in the house. No matter how you reassure yourself, you still creep down the stairs to look around for any signs of intrusion.

Every step, you pause and listen around for something, anything. Maybe a bear broke into your house for food or a thief was rooting through your office for your safe box. Maybe it was something as small and harmless as mice knocking over furniture. Every second feels like an eternity, your heart racing in your throat.

"Hello? I know there's someone here. Just leave, and I won't call the cops."

Ghost sneers at you behind the suit. What a stupid thing for you to do and say. He considers jumping the gun, ruining the mystery by revealing himself and teaching you a lesson. Soap inadvertently stops him, setting off your security alarm.

The high pitched alarm rang out, making you wince and cover your ears. Your house phone starts ringing, you scramble to pick it up. Backing yourself up against your living room wall to stare wide eyed into the darkness.

"Knight Security. Please provide your security code." The voice on the line said. The man sounded calm, kind, certain. It somehow helped to make you focus, take a deep breath. Probably why the guy worked there.

"CL-NG-8675."

"Alright, got you. The alarms were tripped at your property. Everything alright?"

Was everything alright? Now talking to another living being, you weren't so sure. You tried to put everything you were experiencing into words but found you sounded incredibly silly... or one foot into a mental break.

"...Yeah, I'm alright."

"That's good. I'll get those sirens turned off for you and call off emergency services. Now, procedure does require me to have you walk through all possible entrances and exits in the home just to verify security. Would you mind checking the front door, love?"

Blissfully, the alarm turned off. The ear piercing sound finally gone, you let out a sigh of relief. The handsome voice on the phone asked you to check the front door, so you did. Confirmed it was locked and secure, just as you left it before bed.

He had you do the same with your garage door, the side door to the yard, and the back door.

"Perfect. You did a great job. Best customer of the night, if I may say," You could hear the smile in his voice.

"Why, thank you. You may," You quipped back, smiling to yourself in the darkness of the living room.

The man on the phone sounded like he was going to say goodbye, but he paused and made a small sound. "Oh! Before I let you go, I have one more question I have to add to the report."

"Of course, anything," You say, eager to please now that your heart had stopped racing.

"Are you alone in the home?"

Your response was immediate. "Yes."

The line went silent for a few beats. "...Are you sure?"

You could still hear the smile in his voice, but these words were spoken softly, dangerously.

"...What?"

"Turn around."

#noel.txt #ghoap x reader #cw horror #(??) idk how else to tag so pls lmk if there is anything to add

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queennerd81793 · 24 days ago

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YO what if we got a Sonic 4 ending where Stone, who's accepted that Robotnik is gone and is back working as a barista, is taking orders one day when a guy who looks exactly like Robotnik (excluding the mustache and a lot more friendly) walks in and orders a latte (cue Coldplay's Life In Technicolor). Stone, both in shock, saddened, and over the moon all at the same time, nevertheless takes his latte order and asks for the guy's name, but before the guy can say his name, it cuts too black. Whether it was Jim playing himself or another character is up to the imagination.

Basically, the scene would play out like the Night At The Museum 2 ending. (If you've never seen the NATM 2 ending go watch it, it's both romantic and bittersweet.)

#stobotnik #sonic 3 #agent stone #dr. robotnik #sonic the hedgehog

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jestercouture · 1 month ago

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Hii, i really liked your last post about jonathan and blackmore tending to sick darling! May i ask one like that but with yandere bruno and mista (the diiference being that reader got sick after trying to escape from them and spending the whole night hiding from them on the cold streets)

Bruno Bucciarati

warnings: stalking, kidnapping, obsessive behavior, light gaslighting, threats of violence.

His hands were shaking as he placed a warm blanket across your body; in anger or nervousness you did not know. You could gather that he was angry with you, for hiding, for running away from him but did you really have any other choice?

It was either run or spend the rest of your life in a locked room, disguised as a luxurious paradise, with the “love of your life” attending to your every whim. Except, Bruno wasn’t your lover and he had been closely following your every move without your knowledge as he prepared to take you for himself.

Oh, and he was a capo to the local Italian mafia.

But you hadn’t had a chance to spill a desperate apology from your chattering lips, eyes glazed over with tears burning and about to run down your cheeks. His eyes met yours and you just felt your heart stop; he was furious, that much you could tell, but he was trying his hardest to keep his composure.

Bruno was a man of utmost respect; it was his very nature to care and nurture to the best of his ability despite a difficult situation on his hands. If you had liked him the slightest bit, perhaps he could have also commanded your respect without intention.

Because Bruno did care. Too much, to his own and to your detriment, which is how you got stuck here. He always tended to notice those on the fringes of society, those who weren't cared for and abandoned. You had a family, but after moving to Italy for a gap year as you decided what to with yourself for the rest of your life...it could get quite isolating. Staying in a cheap hostel wasn't easy, especially with your limited Italian.

But you made it work, as an English tutor to parents who wished for their kids to have more options for study and work. It paid well, most times, but you still fought tooth and nail to find a more stable and higher paying position as a barista or something.

If only you hadn’t taken that job at the local coffee shop, with good pay and regular customers who were (mostly) kind.

If only he hadn’t laid his eyes on you, you would be free. And happy.

There was no use in thinking about that now. You life, your freedom, you had been snatched away from all of it, without any thought as to how you would feel. He acted as though you should be grateful. Bruno thought, genuinely envisioned that you would be overjoyed to be stolen away from your own life.

“Do you find joy in being so difficult, mia cara?”, you almost jumped as his voice rang out in the bedroom, almost morose as he looked at you. Disappointment was worse than anger sometimes, because what did he really expect to happen?

“You can’t keep me here forever, Bucciarati. I don’t want to be here an-“, a slew of coughs wracked your body, ceasing your oncoming insults.

“Mmm, and I suppose I should have left you out there in this state?” Warm, strangely soft hands brushed against your forehead, drawing away after he felt the light sheen of sweat forming.

His chiding tone did nothing to inspire guilt, or even a sense of shame for running away from him, it only made you feel much more fury towards him.

Towards what had happened to you. A sadness of what you had now lost, and had no help of returning to.

You let your eyes wander up to his face- admittedly attractive, but his beauty was tainted by his selfishness. Big blue eyes gazed down at you, a sickening mocking care in them that made you begin to shake.

“Oh, carina this is why I keep you here, hm? Nice and safe, warm and right by my side,” Bruno gently placed another blanket over you, smoothing your hair and kissing your forehead.

You could have fallen in love with him. You felt weak enough as it was, sick and shivering and pathetic whilst still despising the man who ruined your life.

“You need me, sweetheart. You just need to give in, let me love you, let me adore you and all of your pain will go away.”

You had that minute of freedom; you grasped it with both hands desperately, knowing it would be last time you would taste it for a while.

Your eyes began to lose your energy faster than you wanted, eyes drooping but fluttering to stay awake.

A relieving, cool hand touched your face and stroked your cheek with tenderness; you almost felt sicker when your heart stopped at the feathery touch.

“Just sleep, amore, I’ll be there when you wake up.”

That’s what you were afraid of.

Guido Mista

"Aww, baby, you really outdid yourself this time, didn't you?"

You were feverish, barely able to see the shadows flittering around the room. It felt as though tiny creatures were jumping and crawling throughout the sheets, nipping and tickling your skin.

"Mista...where?..." you could barely form words, your throat was dry as all hell and your foggy vision was clouding your frail efforts to catch sight of a glass somewhere, anywhere in the haze.

“Shh, shh, just let me take care of you, carina. You’ve only gone and caught yourself a nasty little cold, huh?” His voice was teasing you, that much you could make out, yet your sweating body almost went into shock at the undertones of dread it gave you.

Mista was being uncharacteristically caring about your escape attempt; you had been bracing yourself for a long lecture and one-sided argument at your selfishness, your callous disregard for how you had abandoned Mista when all he wanted to do was love you.

Yeah, love you to death, more like. You had seen him dispose of low-life criminals on the streets of Italy, callous and violent, like it meant nothing to him. He may have tried to shield you from his occupation but you both knew what he was.

You forced yourself to watch Mista if it was possible to remind yourself of what he could do to you if you ever went too far; his gun could be pressed against your head one day if you pushed him far enough, right?

It didn’t matter right now, though. The pitter-patter and united whining of Sex Pistols still rang in your ears until the irritated voice of your captor scolded them for disturbing you in your time of rest.

“Mista, I-I’m sorry for leaving, I just wanted to-“

“Carina, rest your head. You made a simple mistake, hmm?”

Your foggy eyes widened. Mista was letting you off for now? That would have made you sigh with relief months ago, but you’d come to understand over time that he had a bit of a temper at times.

But now, as he fussed and pampered your bedridden body, a new stab of dread became more present in your gut. This could be dangerous.

He could have hurt me, you realized. But he didn’t, or rather hadn’t yet. Was he waiting until you were back on your feet to punish you? To make you regret you’d ever run away so foolishly, throwing his love and adoration for you back in his face?

But you could feel his painful anger towards you, no matter how hard he tried to keep it down. Eyes twitching, tense shoulders, all of them were hallmarks of a Mista meltdown ready to snap on you.

Bated breaths escaped you as a familiar, sickly feeling began to wash over you; anticipation. Whether or not you knew what was coming, you never failed to feel a few stops short of vomiting when he got like this.

“I don’t know why you do these things, bella. It really hurts my feelings when you act up and make me lose my patience.”

Mista pressed a damp cloth to your face, dabbing gently as he spoke, eyes fixed on your reactions. His tendencies is what was scaring you the most, you almost wanted him to lose his shit with you.

“But I know you’re sorry. I know you feel bad about making me worry and chase you down like that!” That last part…why was it spoken with such glee, such assurance in himself? In you, even after you’d run away?

“I-I really am sorry, Mista, I d-don’t know why I did it”-

“You were scared, weren’t you?”

You shut your eyes instinctually, baring yourself to face the inevitable consequences of your actions. But there was nothing, nothing at all, apart from the slow whisper next to your ear.

It made your hair stand on end, your heart thudded to point where you felt as though you could collapse into the pillows and cushions.

“But I forgive you. This time. If you do it again…I’ll break your legs.”

Somehow, you weren’t sure if you would make it out intact.

If you would make it out at all.

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like my work?

ko-fi

i hope you enjoyed this one! took me a while, and i struggled with writing Mista a bit and i hope they turn out well!

jjba is on the brain im literally frothing at the mouth morning noon and night

#yandere #bruno bucciarati #yandere bruno bucciarati #yandere jjba x reader #yandere jjba #yandere jojo's bizarre adventure #vento aureo #jjba vento auero #yandere mista #guido mista #jjba mista #jjba part 5

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etherealising · 10 months ago

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chapter fourteen | your love is not too kind

masterlist | ↢ previous chapter | next chapter ↣

pairing(s): carmen ‘carmy’ berzatto x fem!reader

summary: you begin your hunt for a special surprise, while cortez and syd gang up on you. also an adventure between you and carmy ensues where you both receive advice from two very nosy old ladies, out of love of course. (honestly just a fun incoherent day with our two losers).

wc: 7.6k (thass a lot of filler)

The harsh cold of the Chicago air sporadically whipped across your face, the wind cut into the small patches of skin that weren’t covered by the scarf you chose to wear. You occupied yourself with the loose bits of concrete surrounding the sidewalk, kicking a few rocks around with the toe of your boot, one hand tucked tightly into your pocket while the other began feeling numb as you held your phone up to your ear.

Your eyes found Cortez’s figure inside the small cafe the two of you decided to meet up at, a smile tugging on your lips as you watched him converse with the person behind the counter while he waited for your orders.

The voice of the event planner on the other line continued droning on about what was expected of you at the gala tonight as if they hadn’t spoken to you in the months leading up to the gala or profusely sent you emails with an itinerary. You wished there was some way for you to get out of the whole ordeal, a few weeks ago you wouldn’t have minded but now you were resigned to spending your night with Hayden and a bunch of other mediocre middle-aged men who would pay you compliments for everything besides the journalistic work you pride yourself on.

You let out a small sigh followed by a noncommittal hum as you listened to the line go silent for the final time, stuffing the phone into your jacket pocket just in time to gratefully receive the to-go cup of hot cocoa Cortez patiently held out to you.

A nod of appreciation was sent his way as the two of you began your walk to the restaurant, your brows furrowed at the neatly wrapped box in his hand that wasn’t occupied with his cup of tea, “You buy the whole bakery or something?” You nodded towards what you assumed was a pastry box when he looked over in your direction.

A small smirk pulled at his lips “Nah, after ya little story about that sad ass baby shower you threw for Natalie, thought I could bring her some pastries ya know since I ain’t get no invite or nothin’.” You rolled your eyes slightly shoving your elbow into his side as you laughed him off.

“Aren’t we like not supposed to have a personal relationship outside of this sponsor sponsee situation?” A slight smile tugged at your lips as you listened to Cortez’s scoff.

“The way yo ass use me like a personal diary we might as well be fuckin’ friends.” Cortez turned his head away from you hoping it was enough to hide the small uptick of his lips, but it did next to nothing as you caught a quick glimpse of it.

You opened your mouth to respond, apologizing lightly to the stranger you almost ran into while your eyes were on Cortez. The man let out a huff of annoyance before carefully balancing his cup of the pastry box and then looping his free arm through yours.

“Bad enough I gotta listen to yo dramatic ass life stories, now I gotta be yo guide dog too?” Regardless of the quiet laugh he let out to signify he was joking, you weren’t sure how you put up with constantly being roasted by the man whenever you were in his presence.

You took another sip of your hot cocoa appreciating the way it warmed you from the inside out, a thought coming to you as you fixed your hold on the cup. “You seemed to know that barista at the cafe pretty well.” It was hard to keep the curiosity out of your tone, hoping if you avoided his stare he wouldn’t clock that you were trying to pry into his personal life.

Cortez let out a chuckle shaking his head at your antics, finding it amusing that you wouldn’t just outright ask him whatever questions you had considering all the times he’d intently listened and advised any dilemmas you went through. “Damn girl, you hella nosy!”

It was hard to hold back the laughter that began to bubble in you at those words, Cortez’s innate sassy nature was something you would always appreciate about him. “Nah I’m playin’,” the almost shy smile on his face cut off his words, and the reaction surprised you. “But uh, I been frequentin’ that cafe for a bit. They uh asked for my number last time I was there, we been talkin’ and shit.” He shrugged it off like he didn’t just tell you the most exciting news you’d heard all week.

Although his complexion didn’t allow for a blush to spread across his cheeks, you could tell he was flustered just by the way he was trying to hide his smile. “Talkin’ and shit hmm,” your imitation of him drew a frown from the man. “Is that all the two of you are doing?”

Cortez chuckled at the teasing undertone in your voice, “Ion really think that’s ya business ma.”

A quiet scoff left you at Cortez’s answer of course he would give you a morsel of his personal life, only to take it away when you got too curious. You didn’t mind though his life wasn’t really any of your business but you sure as hell liked to bug him about it like it was.

“What about you, still cut up over homeboy who stay playin’ with you?” If you spent any more alone time with this man you were sure your eyes would permanently get stuck in the back of your head from all the rolling they did.

“You don’t have to say it like that and actually ‘ion really think that’s ya business bro’.” The laughter from the two of you came immediately at how ridiculous you sounded when trying to mimic Cortez’s vernacular. The strange look from those gathered around you as you waited to cross the street did little to appease your good humor.

The two of you continued the rest of your journey in mostly silence unless one of the two of you made a quip here and there. You weren’t sure what compelled Cortez to tag along with you to the restaurant especially since you’d spoken in length about how you were doing with your sobriety back at the cafe, if anything you were sure Cortez’s nosiness was catching up to him and he wanted to put a face to all the myriad of names you mentioned. But you’d pretend his excuse about seeing Natalie was legitimate.

You stopped in front of the restaurant, the windows covered and not allowing anyone on the outside to see in. You looked back at Cortez for a moment, eyes narrowing as you watched a smug smirk grow on his lips, “What’s that look for?”

His smirk widened as he leaned around you opening the door, “Nothin’ ma just excited to meet that loser you stay fuckin’ cryin’ over.”

You scoffed turning to enter the restaurant, only to be stopped by the sound of Nat’s voice coming from behind the two of you causing you to turn in your tracks with a smile on your face as she approached both of you. Pleasantries were exchanged as the three of you headed inside, your eyes landing on exactly the person you were looking for as you excused yourself from the conversation.

As you made your way further into the restaurant, you realized what was so different about it. It was weird the more you looked around, you realized just how much things had changed thus far. In reality, the only major change you could pinpoint was the lack of walls, but it was also more than that to you, it was no longer the restaurant you once used to come to on the weekends when you and Carm were kids. While most of the foundation was the same there would be no more looking at a particular spot and being sucked into a memory from all those years ago. It was refreshing, to say the least, but it also felt like the last tangible piece of Mikey was being torn down bit by bit, piece by piece.

Nat’s laugh broke you from your reverie, your eyes finding her still locked in conversation with Cortez, whatever stress you’d seen on her face outside had calmed a bit as she spoke with the man. You turned moving to the man you were here to speak to, eyebrows furrowing as you watched Syd look at dishes on the table.

“Fak, hey mind if I cut in?” You waited for his response watching as his eyes darted between you and the man he was speaking with, the latter sending you a welcoming smile as he held his hand out to introduce himself.

The panicked look on Fak’s face as he fought the urge to step away and speak with you made it clear whatever he was doing with Tim was important, so you decided he could be privy to the conversation.

“If I let you in on a super secret mission, you have to promise me Carmy doesn’t find out.” You looked down at Fak in his seated position, the rapid nod of his head enough to let you know your words caught his attention.

You looked around the restaurant just to make sure Carmy hadn’t made a surprise appearance before turning and taking the nearest chair to sit in, leaning forward and beckoning Fak with you, Tim watching from his place next to Fak somehow just as intrigued.

“Okay, I need you to tell me everything you know about what happened to Mikey’s jean jacket, you know the one with that cool blanket lining?” You watched as realization flashed across Fak’s face.

His hands flew to his mouth as he tried to hide his excited laugh, the noise drawing not only Syd’s attention but Nat and Cortez’s as well before they returned to what previously held their attention. Your eyebrows furrowed as you shushed him hoping it wouldn’t draw anyone else’s attention.

“You’re trying to find the jacket for Carmy!” Your eyes widened at how loud he said Carmy’s name, regretting your decision to do this at the restaurant. “So is this like a lover’s gift because you know I’m Carmy’s best friend,” he paused, wincing as he looked at you. “No offense Baby, but you’d be like the coolest fucking girlfriend ever if you found that jacket for Carm.”

While Fak’s excitement made you feel hopeful that getting the jacket would be easier than you once thought, you needed to nip this idea of you and Carmy being an item in the bud before Fak got too carried away, no matter how much the idea warmed you inside.

“Uh…no, no Fak were just friends, but if I’m going to relieve you of best friend duties- thanks for stepping in for the past 10 years by the way,” you gave him a small wink. “I need your help to find that jacket, please.” The puppy dog eyes weren’t necessary but you needed to assure his help.

Fak kept quiet as he looked at you, both of you easily ignored Tim as he sat watching the stare-off between the two of you intently, waiting for one of you to crack. It was immediate the way Fak deflated into himself the excitement still there as he began telling you the information he knew.

You politely nodded along as Fak went off on various tangents, paying extra attention as he recounted Carm being beaten up by someone in a carrot costume, wanting to keep that in the back of your mind just in case you needed it. A few more attentive nods and quiet “mhms” left you before Fak finally gave you something you could work with.

“Chi-Chi? And you’re sure he has the jacket?” You were surprised, to say the least, but after listening to Fak explain how tough things got at The Beef, you understood the need for quick cash. Your mind tried to remember how you overlooked the state of the restaurant when helping out Richie last year.

“Thanks, Fak I really appreciate the help, don’t let Carm find out though please?” You raised your eyebrows hoping he realized how serious you were, your eyes dropping to his extended pinky before letting out a quiet laugh and connecting your pinky’s in a pinky promise.

You gave Fak one last smile in thanks before apologizing to Tim for interrupting their riveting conversation about music and returning the chair to the table you stole it from. As you looked up you caught Syd’s knowing smile out of the corner of your eye, the seat next to her occupied by none other than Cortez, a smile of his own lining his lips.

“Don’t you two just look cozy.” Your voice was sarcastic as you looked between the two of them, sure they heard the whole conversation and even more sure that Cortez provided Syd with commentary. Your eyes fell to the small wares lined up on the table trying to distract yourself from Cortez’s smug grin.

Cortez cleared his throat, “Baby?” The smile was evident in his voice before your eyes shot up to his. “Oh that shit was serious,” he paused on a laugh hand moving to wipe across his mouth. “Not you walkin’ around lettin’ grown ass men call you Baby.”

You looked in Syd’s direction for help, an awkward smile lined her lips as she looked between the two of you. “It’s a childhood nickname, why are you still here anyway?”

He shrugged finger tracing across one of the plates, “Nat asked me to stick around for lunch, and ya girl over here was starin’ at these dishes hard as hell, thought she could use a pastry.”

Your eyes narrowed at Cortez’s words, his hands holding out the pastry box to you in offering. Nat wasn’t around to corroborate his story but you also knew he was just as nosy as you and probably took up Nat’s offer in hopes of meeting Carm, you brushed it off before turning back to Syd.

“Why isn’t Carm helping you with all this?” Your hand moved in a gesture to everything set out on the table, you could feel the tension radiating off Syd like it was something palpable.

The look on Syd’s face was a mix of irritation and exhaustion as she looked at you before looking in Cortez’s direction, the man all ears as she decided whether or not to talk about what was plaguing her in mixed company.

“Oh, you know Carm, everywhere and nowhere,” she gave a forced laugh before finding your eyes, the look on your face telling her to cut the shit. “He’s stressing me out more than I already am, which isn’t great. There’s so much to get done and when I bring it up he’s already working on a million other things, or he’s just not even here”

You nodded understanding her frustration, “Makes sense, is there anything I could do to help maybe?” It was a shot in the dark but you understood how Carmy could get, and Syd didn’t deserve to be on the receiving end of his shenanigans.

“I uh…maybe like I dunno, not occupy so much of his time…please?” Syd wouldn’t meet your eyes as she fiddled with the plate closest to her turning it back and forth. You were too shocked to say anything, Cortez’s chuckles filled the space your voice hadn’t.

“Damn ma, you just out here makin’ everyone’s life fuckin’ harder huh? Thought I was special.” Cortez sent you a small pout as you turned in his direction.

You sent him a mocking pout to match his, tired of being bullied by the man in front of you. “I’m sorry, why the fuck is the peanut gallery speaking?” He rolled his eyes mocking your words before you looked back in Syd’s direction, “Listen, Syd, I didn’t realize I was monopolizing all of Carmy’s time, and I apologize for any stress I’ve caused you, but for now on I’ll be more mindful of your time.”

Syd sent you a small smile, her shoulders relaxed as she realized you weren’t upset with her. Could her words have been nicer, maybe, but without them you wouldn’t have realized just how much Carmy spending time with you was taking away his attention from the restaurant. And while Syd definitely should’ve voiced her concerns to Carm, you were sure she was taking the less volatile approach by speaking with you.

The sound of Syd calling Carmy over drew your attention, your eyes immediately met Cortez’s as his eyes moved from a spot behind you before landing on yours. The two of you had a silent conversation through your eyes, trying your best to shut down any thoughts running through Cortez’s mind as a smug smile graced his features, hands raising in acquiescence.

A warmth at the small of your back had you turning to Carmy. His body now stood next to yours, you tried to tame your smile in front of Cortez not wanting to give him any more ammunition to tease you with. It was subtle but you felt the warmth of Carmy’s fingers trace across your lower back before his hand fell to his side.

“Hey,” his voice was breathy, quiet as his eyes roamed over your face taking inventory. “Are you good, did you eat?”

You gave a soft nod doing your best to ignore the way Cortez and Syd turned to look at each other in your peripheral vision.

“Homeboy just looks lost 24/7 don’t he?” Cortez’s words met your ears, you listened as Syd hummed in agreement, your eyes turning to the two culprits, Carmy’s following shortly after. Cortez stood up after that leaning over the table with his hand outstretched, “Good to properly meet you, kid, seein’ as we ain’t get a chance to talk last time I saw you.”

Cortez’s words confused you, eyes following the hesitant way Carmy’s hand met his. “You two know each other?”

Cortez shrugged smirking in your direction, “I ain’t say all that,” he paused before his eyes shifted to Carmy’s eyes his smirk widened. “Baby over here, talks so fondly bout you homie, feel like I already know you.”

You rolled your eyes at Cortez’s antics letting out a sarcastic laugh before gesturing between the two of them and speaking, “Cortez meet Carmy, Carmy meet Cortez.”

Carmy stood tensely beside you his fingers bumping into yours as his hand moved across his body to scratch his tricep, “I uh, remember you…from the church.” Carmy began nodding his head, this whole situation was news to you but it made sense considering neither man knew who the other was until today.

“That’s great, this is great. I love reunions, quick kinda off topic question which plates should we use to serve our guests, or are we going for a whole like BYOP vibe?” Syd’s hands gestured to the table with the various choices on it.

It was quiet for a moment as Carmy’s eyes flashed across the selection, “What’s BYOP?”

“Bring Your Own Plate.” Your voice along with Cortez’s rang out in sync before the man raised his hand towards you waiting as you reached out to high-five him both of you laughing.

Syd and Carmy shared a moment staring between the two of you before their eyes met. Carmy couldn’t understand it but for some reason seeing you and the man he now knew to be Cortez reminded him of you and Mikey.

“Um, this plate.” Carmy’s hands reached for a sleek black plate that you admired as he set down.

Syd grimaced before speaking up, “Well, that's 55 bucks a plate for that type of silence, so... ”

Cortez let out a low whistle as he leaned in closer to look down at the plate, “Damn y’all got money, them some nice ass plates.” Cortez looked up at the silence that fell over the group, “I can see my opinion ain’t wanted,” he raised his hands in surrender. “But when you got time I’ma need the name of the designer cause these mugs is fresh as fuck.”

You let out a quiet laugh, Syd’s mouth twitching at the corners from Cortez’s humor, “I’ll keep that in mind for your birthday…are sponsees allowed to gift their sponsors, things?”

“The best gift you could get me is yo ass shuttin’ the hell up.” Syd tried to disguise her laugh as a cough when you glared at her, you even saw Carmy’s lips twitch from the peripheral vision.

Before you could respond Nat made her presence known joining the group with an envelope of some sort in her hand. You tuned out the conversation Carmy and Nat engaged in as you occupied yourself with the dishware on the table, cataloging the pieces you thought were nice in your head.

Syd’s tired sigh pulled your attention as you caught the end of the conversation, Carmy offering to drop something off for Nat.

“I can drop that off, that way you two can stay here and get all the hard work done.” The voices quieted as your suggestion rang out, your eyes flashing around the group waiting for a response.

Nat nodded as she began handing the envelope over, “Will you have enough time to get ready for the gala tonight?”

You shrugged not caring too much about the event as you gripped the envelope. Before you could wander off and grab your belongings Carmy spoke up, “I’ll go with you.”

Remembering Syd’s earlier words you offered him a small smile before shaking your head back and forth, “Don’t worry about it, you’ve got plenty of stuff here to worry about.”

Cortez laughed looking between the group gathered around, “Damn it takes two of y’all to drop off a little envelope.”

Carmy ignored his teasing as he began speaking directly to you. “Did you drive here?” You shook your head no at his question, “So you’re just gonna walk all the way to Winnetka?” You weren’t sure when Carmy had become so sassy but you stood there staring at him with a slight smile on your face at his persistence.

“Oh my goodness please just go!” Syd’s words pulled the two of you out of your staring contest, “Just Carm, can we please go over plates and napkins when you get back, maybe even the chaos menu?”

Carmy listened to her request and nodded before turning to you nodding his head and signaling for the two of you to leave. You sighed feeling bad that you were once again occupying Carmy’s time, but the quicker the two of you got this errand done the quicker Carmy could return and get the important work done.

As the two of you moved away from the group, you couldn’t help the small smile as you listened to Syd and Cortez begin a conversation regarding Coach K.

The quiet song playing on the radio was the only noise filling the space of the car, your thumbs twiddled against the steering wheel, eyes locked on the pile-up of cars in front of you. You could feel Carmy’s eyes searing into the side of your head when he stole glances in your direction, for someone who was so adamant on joining your journey, he sure didn’t have much to say.

“Sometimes when I dream, it's always these fucked up scenarios where I’m in a car and I just don’t know how to drive.” You looked over to Carm to see his eyes already on you before continuing. “I always get in these accidents, like the brakes don’t work, or I just fucking crash right? And like what if this is one of those dreams?”

Carmy let out a quiet cough as he looked between you in the driver's seat and the cars ahead of you, “Is there uh…ever any passengers in your dreams?”

You smirked at his question before shrugging, “Sometimes but they never actually have a face, their faces are just smooth.”

“You know how fucked up that sounds?” Carmy’s voice was incredulous as he caught your eyes once more, the two of you sharing a laugh at the whole thing.

While an unusual conversation started, it did the job to break whatever tension had settled between the two of you, as you could see Carmy’s body relax into the seat out of your peripheral.

“So Cortez…he’s your uh sponsor?” Carmy listened as you hummed in approval of his question, his eyes strayed to the way your hands moved to signal a lane change.

You weren’t sure why you agreed to drive knowing how much other drivers pissed you off, “My sponsor, personal pain in the ass. Same difference.” You gave Carm a small smile as you checked the passenger side mirror before merging.

Carm nodded debating whether the questions racing through his mind deserved to be spoken aloud. “What’s it like?” There was a moment of silence between the two of you, Carmy realizing just how insensitive the question was, “Shit uh…you don’t have to answer that.”

Carmy’s question rang through your head as you thought of how to respond. You weren’t sure if meeting Cortez made him so curious or if he had underlying questions since finding out about your accident, it was worth mentioning that your experience wouldn’t help him understand Mikey and his experience even more but that wasn’t a conversation you wanted to get into while driving.

“It’s a lot of fucking discipline,” you stopped trying to gather the best way to articulate your feelings. “There’s this romanticized idea of what being a recovering addict looks like, and it's honestly a bunch of bullshit. People think you make the choice, you get clean, and then like fucking magic you’re just cured.”

Your eyes were hyper-focused on the road as you drove, the words pouring out of you without a second thought. “I’ll be a recovering addict for the rest of my life, there’s no end to this shit. My whole life is different now, the day I chose to use, will affect every single choice I make going forward.”

“And I don’t think I have to tell you, but this shit is a disease. I’m fucking sick Carm, and there’s no getting better, not really. Recovery is like putting a bandaid on a wound that needs fucking life-saving surgery, but the surgery doesn’t exist and you just hope to fucking hell your bandaid will last. I used to be one of those people you know…I thought addicts just had to get clean and all was good again but then I lived that shit.”

Carmy hung onto every word intently, watching the sheen that overcame your eyes as you followed the GPS directions on autopilot, your hands tightening around the steering wheel every few moments as he lost you.

“It’s a lot of pretending too…for me at least, pretending that I’m fine, pretending that the urges aren’t there slowly eating away at me if I give them too much thought.” You paused sniffling as tears fought to drip down your face. “P-pretending I didn’t tell Nat it was her fault that M-Mikey passed, that she should’ve paid more attention as I laid there saying the most vile things hoping they’d give in and just give me something. Pretending I don’t spend days locked away in my room as thoughts of just using one more time bring on bouts of anxious tremors.”

Carm watched you from his spot in the passenger seat, through all that you somehow managed to safely navigate the two of you to your destination. His chest felt tight as a few tears slipped down your cheeks, his eyes catching sight of the way your grip slackened on the steering wheel, the appendages shaking slightly. He could feel the disgust rising in his chest as he realized if it weren’t for his curiosity you wouldn’t be upset.

Carmy unbuckled himself, hands reaching out to collect yours between his. Your unfocused eyes found his as he gave you a minute to collect yourself, the embarrassment of the moment washed over your face. “Sorry, I probably should’ve taken Cortez up on his offer to meet more often.” You let out a pathetic laugh hoping the severe look of concern on Carmy’s face would slowly ebb away.

You allowed him to unbuckle you before his hands found yours once more, you watched as he brought them to settle against his warm chest just barely realizing the slight tremors radiating off of them. He held your hands against his chest allowing the warmth to help calm you down, the steady beat of his heart bringing the comfort you needed.

Carmy’s hands moved from their place atop yours before moving to pull you into his chest as best he could. Neither of you said a word about the uncomfortable way the center console dug into your stomachs. As Carmy’s warm lips pressed into your temple you relaxed into him as much as the positions allowed for his arms bringing you the comfort they always did.

You were thankful that Carmy agreed to the pit stop you’d asked him to make. After sitting in the parking lot for longer than necessary you realized it would be easier to pick up your dress now rather than Carmy dropping you off at home and then leaving to pick it up.

The gentle squeeze to your hand stole your attention, your eyes were staring out the window, not focused on anything in particular as you debated whether to attend the gala or just forget about the whole thing and spend your night home alone. You turned to face Carmy, a small smile on his lips as he nodded to the house he’d parked in front of.

Both of you exited the car meeting up in front of it before you offered him your best encouraging smile and led the way to the door. The warmth radiating off his body behind you is the only notion to let you know he followed you before your hand reached to press the doorbell.

It was a few minutes before a voice yelled from inside the house, noises met your ears as the door was yanked open. The screen door made it difficult to see exactly who stood behind it, but the dramatic gasp let you know who it was.

“Well I’ll be damned Baby, you sure do know how to pick up stray…dare I say bears.” The joke was mediocre at best, but it was Ms. Sadie’s high-pitched laugh that stole a giggle out of you as you turned in Carmy’s direction, eyebrows raised in amusement.

Ms. Sadie left the two of you on the porch, quickly unlocking the screen door as she moved slower than she once did all those years ago, the sound of the lock was enough of an invitation. “We won’t stay long I promise,” you knew just how uncomfortable being social made Carmy. “Take off your shoes.”

Carmy nodded as he watched you step out of your shoes before moving inside his motions following yours. He hadn’t seen Ms. Mable or Ms. Sadie since returning to Chicago, he honestly wasn’t sure they were still alive, but he remembered just how much the two women loved you all those years ago and while he was never as close with them as you and your mom, he felt his cheeks warm at the idea of you bringing him to their house, it didn’t mean anything but he couldn’t help the way his mind read into it.

“Mabel! Baby’s here, and she brought her little friend.” Carmy followed you through the living room as Ms. Sadie’s voice rang through his ears, his eyes floated around the room landing on several photos of you throughout the years, his hand reaching for a photo of the three of you at what he assumed was your college graduation. Carmy’s eyes studied your smile frozen in time, your happiness practically radiated through the picture as you stood in your cap and gown. He knew he would never have these memories with you, and knowing that everyone else besides him celebrated your successes no matter how big or small would always stick with him.

“Carm,” the whisper of your voice made him look in your direction, finding your hand reaching out for him, he gave you his small signature smile before replacing the picture frame.

Carmy allowed you to lead him through the house before the two of you stepped into the sunroom, Ms. Mabel sat at a table, a game of chess in front of her. His fingers twitched as your hand left his to greet the woman, watching as you dropped down to hug her, the older woman’s eyes landing on his as they lit up. He stood awkwardly trying to ignore the glare Ms. Sadie pointed his way as her partner whispered something in your ear. Your soft laugh rang through his head like a breeze in the early morning.

“Carmen Berzatto, you just gon’ stand in my house and not say nothin’?” His eyes widened as he looked between you and Ms. Mabel, mouth opening and closing as he watched a slow smile rise to both of your faces. “M’ just messin’ with you honey, Baby’s been tellin’ us about the restaurant, been wonderin’ when she was gonna bring your round.”

A tense smile raised to his lips, the sense of uncomfortableness slowly ebbing away as you moved back to his side. “Baby, why don’t you go on with Mabel and get your dress, I’ll get Carmen here to help me in the kitchen. I know y’all can’t stay long so we’ll send y’all off with some red beans and rice. How that sound?”

Carmy gave you a reassuring smile as you looked in his direction, he couldn’t voice it but Ms. Sadie intimidated him and he knew her suggestion wasn’t a question but more so a demand as his eyes flitted to Ms. Mabel trying to hide her chuckles behind her hand. His head began nodding before he even realized, your hand reached to give his a light squeeze followed by the smile that was etched into his memory as you and Ms. Mabel left the two of them.

You stepped from behind the partition beaming as Ms. Mabel gasped, clapping her hands. You did a little spin once you made it to the middle of the room stepping on the raised dais so the older woman could assure the alterations were perfect. You watched the woman move around in the mirror thankful for her agreeing to make the few alterations you needed, staring at the way the dress hugged the shape of your body made you feel a bit better about the gala tonight. You hoped the confidence you felt as you stood there would translate to the event and help you get through the night.

“So, you and that Berzatto boy.” Ms. Mabel’s words had a knowing undertone as her eyes met yours in the mirror, a kind smile on her face to let you know her curiosity was genuine.

You gave a slight shrug trying not to show just how flustered the question made you, “We’re friends again if that’s what you're asking.”

Ms. Mabel’s smile widened in the mirror before her mouth opened taking the form of an ‘o’ as she gave you one more once over. “Do you permanently alter your body for all your friends?” The question was paired with her cold fingers tracing the amalgamation of lines that now ran down your spine, a quiet gasp escaped you at the feeling. “Now I was born at night Baby, but I wasn’t born last night. And I know for damn sure you didn’t have this tattoo when I first took your measurements.”

A warmth flushed over your body at having been called out by the older woman as she gestured for you to step off the dais and join her on the settee, your mouth opening to respond.

“Hush up for a minute now,” her wrinkled hands reached out to cup yours as they fiddled in your lap. “It’s beautiful work Baby, don’t get me wrong but I would like to see you find the happiness you deserve before I leave this Earth.” She waved you off as you opened your mouth to protest, “Now Sadie and I ain’t gon’ be here much longer and we love you like you’re our own. But don’t you think you’d be happier if you let that boy go?”

A sigh deflated your body as you took in Ms. Mabel’s words it would have been easy to get defensive and fight tooth and nail for Carmy like you usually did, but you knew she was only asking because of how much she cared about you. You allowed yourself a few seconds of silence as you thought of your response, searching for the best words so as to not disrespect the woman you held in such high regard.

“I think I would be a lot happier if I let Carm go,” saying the words out loud left a bitter taste in your mouth and you weren’t sure if it was the remnants of truth left on your tongue or heartache. “But letting him go wouldn’t remove the space he’s made for himself in my life. We lost contact for 10 years and even that wasn’t enough for me to forget the memory of him. It’s like,” you paused your eyes looking up into Ms. Mabel’s before continuing.

“The love I have for him is burrowed deep in me, like roots. And it’s more than just being in love with him, it’s the love I shared with him growing up, in friendship. I don’t know Ms. Mabel, maybe it would be easier if we didn’t encompass each other’s lives in the way we have, a-and maybe it’s stupid of me to one day hope he could devote himself to me, but whatever love I have for him, I’m just not sure I could find it in someone else.”

The crow's feet by Ms. Mabel’s eyes crinkled up as she offered you a warm smile, her hands squeezed yours as a way to translate the care she had for you. “You know I was married before Sadie right?” Her question had your eyebrows furrowing in confusion. “I didn’t love him, hardly knew him but all women were good for back then was marryin’ and homemakin’. There was someone else though, and the shame those feelings caused me put enough fear in me to marry that man. And he was a good man, treated me right, respected me, but I just couldn’t love him the way I loved my Sadie.”

There was little surprise on your face as Ms. Mabel revealed the identity of the person who held her true affection. “I won’t get into all the messy details, but when I was finally free of that marriage Sadie and I found our way back to each other, and it was then that I knew, no matter what I could never love another soul in the way my soul loved Sadie’s. So no Baby, it��s not stupid but you can’t allow that type of love to live rent-free in you if whoever’s on the other end of it ain’t returin’ the affection. Sometimes Baby it’s just best to love from afar.”

Ms. Mabel pulled you into a warm embrace as she finished talking, hoping that her words wouldn’t just go in one ear and out the other. “Now gon’ on and get outta that dress you done let me talk your ear off so long you might not have enough time to get ready.” She smiled as you laughed along with her before stepping behind the partition to redress.

You and Ms. Mabel stepped into the living room laughter left the both of you as you maneuvered the dress bag so it didn’t get caught on any of the shelves. Carmy and Ms. Sadie seemed to be in deep conversation as the two of you entered the room, a part of you surprised at how comfortable Carmy looked sitting on the plastic-wrapped couch.

“Sadie stop talkin’ that boys ear off Baby needs to go home and get ready.” The sound of Ms. Sadie sucking her teeth caused you to laugh as Ms. Mabel mumbled about how the other woman talked too damn much.

Ms. Sadie said something to Carmy before rising from the couch taking both of their mugs with her before returning with a plastic bag full of Tupperware, “Oh Baby, you got that little fancy gala tonight don’t you.”

You looked in her direction as you moved through the living room to reach Carmy’s side, “Yes ma’am, Ms. Mabel’s alterations were perfect as always.”

“Mhm, so Carmen here is your plus one?” She raised her eyebrow in question as she handed the bag of food over to the aforementioned man.

You tried to ignore the heat of Carmy’s eyes as he turned to look at you. Shuffling in your spot as you looked to Ms. Mabel for help while she pretended to pick up the nonexistent dust particles on one of the shelves. You weren’t sure why she was even asking this question, you’d explained to both of them you were unsure about inviting Carmy every time Ms. Mabel asked.

“W-well I would love for Carm to come with me,” you looked in his direction as his eyes fell to the floor, a blush coloring his cheeks. “But it’s last minute and who knows if he even has a suit. A-and I’ve taken up too much of his time already. Syd really needs him back at the restaurant.”

Ms. Sadie narrowed her eyes at you being able to smell your bullshit before you even opened your mouth. “Well, speak up Carmen.”

You watched as Ms. Sadie raised her eyebrows to Carmy as he looked up, the older woman trying to communicate something without using words. “N-no…uh yeah, Baby’s right I uh gotta get back to the restaurant.”

Ms. Sadie didn’t even try to hide her sigh of disappointment as she shooed to two of you out of the house, Ms. Mabel joined her partner as they walked you and Carmy out to the porch, “We’ll see you for Sunday dinner right Baby?”

You nodded before being pulled into a hug by both women receiving kisses on both of your cheeks, “And you bet not show up here without Carmen.” Ms. Sadie’s words tickled your ear as she whispered to you before pulling away. You gave her a confused smile while nodding, since you’d been back in Chicago Ms. Sadie had made her disapproval of the youngest Berzatto clear, and you couldn’t pretend to know what had changed in the 30 minutes she was left alone with him.

Ms. Mabel and Ms. Sadie stood on their porch waving you and Carmy off as they watched his car pull away. “What got you invitin’ Carmen to our house for Sunday dinners?” Ms. Mabel looked up at her wife having heard her whisper to you, “Thought you didn’t like that boy after everything.”

The taller woman shrugged her shoulder before wrapping her arm around Ms. Mabel’s waist, “That boy just needed some sense smacked into him.” Before Ms. Mabel could open her mouth to protest, Ms. Sadie hushed her. “I’m just messin’ but before you scold me for not mindin’ my business you better figure out which one of us is the pot and which one is the kettle.”

They divulged into boisterous laughter as they stood there in each other’s embrace. Relishing in just how well they knew each other, “If that hardheaded boy don’t make his move tonight I’m uninvitin’ his ass from Sunday dinner.”

Ms. Sadie’s heart warmed as she watched Ms. Mabel’s face light up from just how much she laughed. Ms. Sadie led the smaller woman into the house, and although her jokes regarding the Berzatto boy got raucous laughter from her lover, she sure would be put out if she sat her old ass on that couch talking sense into that boy instead of watching her program and he decided the wisdom she kindly bestowed upon him didn’t need to be put to use.

a/n: i know this was a bit much for a filler chapter but i promise it sets up a very important story arc that we’ve all heavily been anticipating. hope you all enjoyed, hope you’re all doing amazing my loves! reblogs and comments are much appreciated! 🫶🏽🤎

#carmen berzatto x reader #carmen berzatto x you #carmy berzatto x reader #carmy berzatto x you #carmy x you #carmy the bear x reader #the bear fic #the bear x reader #the bear x you #all i ever knew only you ₊‧°𐐪♡𐑂°‧₊

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wlw-imagines · 2 years ago

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Coffee Shop - Kara Danvers/Reader (Supergirl)

request: i found this prompt and was wondering if u could write it with kara danvers from supergirl pls?? "i started writing 'Supergirl' on your coffee cup as a joke because you kind of look like her but it actually turns out you are them oh shit - anon

a/n: these are from my old tumblr thefandomwritings from back in 2018 ! re-vamped and re-purposed (jk it is hardly edited at all) !! hope u enjoy and forgive the 2018 me style writing

Starting anywhere as a newbie was tough. Especially at this coffee shop... when you’d never made coffee before... and to be honest, you weren’t even really a coffee drinker. But, alas, you had rent to pay and a job opening had come through and you had been accepted for the job. More fool them.

The coffee shop was a busy one, constantly on the go. Your hands were already covered in burns and your new clean white apron was now covered in coffee drips and smears. Your shift had only started 45 minutes ago.

You let out a deep sigh and slouched, leaning on the serving desk to try and gather some energy before the next customer appeared. You really couldn’t bear some jackass in a fancy business suit complaining that you’d made their fancy coffee wrong again. Even though you had most definitely made it wrong.

As the next customer approached, you perked up slightly. Maybe the next 10 minutes of your life as a barista would be more bearable.

"Good morning, you must be new here! I'm Kara." She began and smiled cheerfully at you. She also added in an awkward wave before pushing her glasses up her nose.

"Uh, yes I am." You replied, letting your customer service smile develop into a real one. "Is it that obvious?" You laughed slightly, there was probably a 'newbie' aura about you (maybe it was the burnt hands?), it was fairly obvious how nervous you were, and you didn't need pretty girls making you even more flustered around boiling hot liquid.

"No, no! You're perfect- I mean, you know, you're great- doing great." She rambled, her cheeks reddening. "I pick up coffee from here every day before I go to work so I guess I just know everyone who works here pretty well."

“Morning Kara! The ususal?” Your co-worker, Liam, greeted her with a smile. He had been a slight godsend to you and had the patience of a saint. No matter how many times you had fucked it up.

“That would be great, but no rush!” She added, politely eying your resigned expression. You could hardly make 1 cup of coffee and now you had to make 6? For a pretty customer? Shit.

Liam nudged you, “Ready?” He smiled, his eyes slightly teasing as you took in a deep breath and nodded hesitantly.

“Yeah, sure, piece of cake.” You shrugged, taking the order note and looking to find the easiest first. Small steps.

On the first attempt of the first coffee you already found yourself once more cursing yourself for ever applying to work here in the first place. Your curses were interrupted by Kara looking at you with a worried look. "I'm sure you'll get the hang of it soon." She gave you an encouraging smile and you shot her a weary look.

"God, I really hope so." You mumbled, running your burnt hand under the tap for a couple of seconds.

After a short pause (and two successful coffees in) Kara cleared her throat and nodded towards the coffee machine, “It’s like riding a bike, right?”

“Huh?” You glance up quickly, confusion etched on your face.

“Making coffee. Once you learn, you’ll be set.” She elaborated, fiddling with her fingers anxiously.

You smiled slightly and gave an embarrased shrug, “I can’t ride a bike.” You admitted.

“You can’t?” She looked slightly crestfallen, hoping to have made you feel better rather than just make you feel worse about the situation. “Oh.” She faltered, annoyed with herself. Her brain searched for something else to say to make you feel better and to make you properly smile again. Before she could, you continued.

“I just never understood like, the pedalling? And the turning and also the gears?” You let out a soft laugh, “Although a bike makes more sense to me than this coffee machine so maybe I do have a chance.” You smiled up at her and her heart melted. That was the smile she was aiming for.

“I could teach you!” She burst out, without really thinking about what she was saying. Kara shook her head and tried again, “I mean, I like cycling. It’s easy once you get the pedalling and the turning and the gears down.”

You nodded, trying not to let her offer go to your head, “Do you also know how to make coffee by any chance?” You joked, standing up to properly face her and nodding your head over to the devil machine.

“Can’t help you there, sorry.” She put her hands out apologetically. You laugh and go to continue the conversation, but before you can Liam is nudging your shoulder and pointing to the coffee you were making.

“Y/N, the cup-” You turn around to see the coffee pouring out over the top of the cup, overfilling and spilling everywhere.

You leap towards the cup and let out a small, “Shit.”

9 cups of coffee later (3 of which were currently residing in the trash can), you carefully started to pass the cups into a holder, so she could carry all of them at the same time, and then hesitated.

"Which one is yours?" It’s your first shift and you're already trying to pick up girls. You decided to forgive yourself, you deserved it after the hell of this shift. Once it was pointed out (she had black coffee usually, which surprised you as it didn't seem to suit her sweet character), you wrote your number and drew a little picture of a superhero and labelled it 'Supergirl' - you were quite proud of yourself for making the art.

They didn't look identical or anything, but you had noticed that there were similarities from the moment she had stepped up to the counter. Once you were finished you slid the carrier of drinks and her black coffee over the counter.

She frowned slightly, looking suspiciously at the doodle on her cup. You shrugged, suddenly feeling a little self concious. You weren’t sure what about - the drawing? Your flirting? Your bad coffee skills? You cleared your throat.

"Well, it's a joke." You smiled at her. "Just because, well y'know, you look a bit like Supergirl...” She looked up at you, eyes slightly wide, which you couldn’t tell if it was a good sign or not, “If you just took away the glasses and added a cape-" You trailed off slightly when she started to look uncomfortable. You straightened up and cleared your throat feeling somewhat guilty that you seemed to have distressed your new (and favourite) customer. "Sorry, I meant it as a- it was supposed to be kind of like a compliment." You smiled gently, trying to show her that you didn't mean her any harm or discomfort. In the short space of time that you had met this women you couldn't help but feel completely distracted by her.

"Oh, right - Yes, of course... well, she is pretty strong and it must be kinda cool to be able to fly. Hypothetically speaking, of course. So, uh, yes. Thank you." She looked back at her cup then tilted her head to the side to read your writing. "Wait, what does that number mean?" Kara tilted her head, her eyes scanning her coffee cup. It's like she was deliberately trying to make your heart melt.

"That is my phone number." Blood rushed up to your cheeks. You don’t recall a time where you had to explain your pathetic attempts at flirting so much.

"Ah, right. Yes. Your phone number...” She nodded thoughtfully before her brows shot up and she looked back at you, a similar red creeping into her cheeks, “which I will phone you with." The realisation dawned on her face as it slowly sank in that you had just given her your number.

You laughed and leaned towards her again. "Yes." You nodded, licking your lips. "Or you can text me. It's up to you, if you were to want to go out sometime, that is."

"No- I mean yeah, I'd love to. That, that would be great. I-" She grinned and she nervously pushed her glasses up her nose again. "I should go but I hope to see you tomorrow?"

"Yeah, of course. As long as I haven't burnt the joint down, you'll definitely see me tomorrow." You joked and watched as she nodded slowly with a small smile in return and turned to leave.

As she walked out the door she looked back at you, giving you a little wave before walking out and away. You smiled and took a step back from the counter, mentally congratulating yourself on the win, until you knocked a cup of coffee from the side and it flew all over your feet.

“Shit.” Maybe your job here wouldn't last as long as you thought.

#kara danvers #supergirl #supergirl x reader #supergirl imagines #supergirl imagine #kara danvers x reader #kara danvers imagine #WLW #wlw imagines #wlw imagine #wlw x reader #wlw-imagines #coffee shop #lgbt #imagine #lesbian imagine

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raytoebiter · 4 months ago

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"meteor shower, quick! take cover! but the hues under our hair compliment one another."

• raytoebiter's user info! #256 stars!

➞ 101; ray/rei || 15.yo || filipino || he/they || loves music even tho music taste sucks || fighting the homoeroticism in my life 24/7

➞ currently in the fandom of: MHA, Genshin, JJK, Haikyuu

➞ be a certified yapperist with me (shoot me an ask!)

♯┆new works .ᐟ

tunes of your heartbeat (ongoing!!)

- xi. sink or swim

➞ ray's archive (♯┆old works .ᐟ )

- ayato x f!reader

- scaramouche x f!barista reader

- grumpy scaramouche x f!reader

───────────────────⋆⋅☆⋅⋆───────────────────

#genshin fanfic #genshin impact #jjk #haikyuu #scaramouche smau #genshin smau #genshin impact x reader #mha #ray's archive

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dere-yanyan · 3 months ago

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Rosé Misfortune

↬ m. yanderes x gn. reader

It was an accident. You should never have decided to create that.

With all your desperation to gain mutual feelings, you brewed a love potion. Now, imagine your horror when the wrong person drank that very potion.

An original story introduction post.

Welcome, welcome! Thank you for taking interest!

As you can see, the cover art is... just a sketch. I'm an artist as well as a writer, but my drawing skills are buffering [it's stuck in 16 yo me's style]. I'll finish that art someday.

Right now, it's a concept. Which is the very thing the story, Rosé Misfortune, currently is.

WARNINGS ;

This is a yandere story.

Obsessive, possessive, manipulation, dubcon, stalker behaviors.

HOWEVER, I will not write pure smut.

Tension & suggestive, yes, but never explicit.

MC (reader) is morally gray/stupid. They used a love potion without consent.

I should say they might get annoying at times, depending on you tbh 😭

There are two (2) yanderes, so it's a love triangle,, or a love corner.

Rosé Misfortune—in which you, a college student, are working part-time in a cafe.

No partner since birth.

And having to watch all those couples have a date in the cafe? It's painful. Your chest hurts, literally, and you don't know if you should be concerned.

Rosé Misfortune—in which you, the protagonist, find yourself head over heels over your co-worker.

How convenient that your world has living witches in it.

In fact, your best friend is a witch who specializes in brewing potions.

How very convenient.

Rosé Misfortune—in which despite your best judgment, you decide to brew a love potion. Trix, for some reason, helps you with your wish.

Then the wrong person takes the horribly-made potion.

— MEET BEATRIX !!

Or, for short, Trix. Your best friend and current roommate.

Coming from a line of magical witches, Trix doesn't exactly know how to cast a wand. Instead, she learns to brew potions and decides to make it her life's work to engineer new ones.

Her ancient family heirloom, a whole book of potions, can finally be used with her very hands!!

A big responsibility, indeed.

— MEET GRANT !!

The guy you're crushing on. A barista just like you. Newest recruit, actually.

Grant's unbelievably basic. But also very gentlemanly, kind, warm gaze, soft spoken, patient, and chill. His adorable freckles and thick eyelashes— wait, who's talking?

Some would say you only like him because you're desperate.

— MEET RIVER !!

a/n: btw he's tall, and has a much darker skin than in the picture 😭 limited colors of skin, sadly. will change soon

The baker in the back of the cafe. You barely see him, and you barely speak to him. Sometimes, he'd act like you don't exist.

You don't mind. There's probably something going on with him. Or, at least, you hope his glares aren't intentional.

But... for such a dry guy, he sure makes the best sweets ever.

THE STORY IS NOT FINALIZED.

It has a three-chapter book in Wattpad [click the underlined for link], but I will not deem it canon. Although it's close.

This post is only a summary of the story—a premise, a gist.

I am still exploring the potential of this story, so some may be different from other depictions.

➵ Requests are open! 💌

Feel free to ask about the story, the characters, and the scenarios itself fr!!

PICREW LINKS:

Trix ; https://picrew.me/en/image_maker/1787745

Grant & River ; https://picrew.me/en/image_maker/2151243

altho the pictures were created a long time ago,,,

#yan original work #Rosé Misfortune #yandere #yandere x reader #male yandere #love triangle #love corner #love potion #dividers by cafekitsune #yandere oc #yandere imagines #yandere art

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rinnsverse · 2 years ago

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COFFEE: PG.07 — Red Robin (yum~)

COFFEE: Tim Drake x gn!reader

SYNOPSIS: Tim meets a barista that gives him what he needed most — a large coffee with way to many shots of espresso. Though what happens when just a single action changes the other's life, forever?

coffee master list || prev. || next || SPECIAL!!

MONDAY, APRIL 3 2023 - 11:42 PM

“Hello, do you want a macaron?” you ask Cardinal Red Robin.

“How’d you know?”

“Because I saw your reply to our announcement on Twitter?”

“Are you stalking my account?” The hero quickly shot back, “That’s a bit weird if you ask me.”

“I don’t stalk your account-“

“It’s giving, obsession if you ask me,” the starting to get annoying hero interjects.

“What’s there to be obsessed about?” you retort, “Besides, I’m the one behind the twitter account.”

“That makes sense regarding the tweet about a customer named Herald Sox.”

“Oh no that wasn’t me, that was my ex-coworker.”

“Ex-coworker?”

“They got fired after publicly announcing for some patrons to never come back after they were being rude to staff,” you explain.

“Oh.”

“Anyways, what do you want?”

“Oh right can I have a dozen macarons, with 6 of the me specials and the others being Spoiler Special, and one black coffee with eight shots of espresso,” he replies.

‘How familiar…’

“To go I assume?”

“No to eat in the next 12 minutes until the cafe closes, of course to-go.”

“I will not hesitate to make a hate thread about you,” you deadpan.

“Didn’t you already do that?” the caped crusader questioned, head turned at a 15° angle.

“No that was me being polite,” you sigh, “$17.78 is your price.”

After he swiped his card you immediately started to get to work on his sad espresso.

“Yo losers where you at?” Cardinal Red Robin asked over comms, “I have your food.”

“Me and Orphan are by Hood’s favorite gargoyle,” Spoiler spoke.

“Her name is Heather, for your information.”

“Aw what the fuck! I’m on the other side of the city,” Nightwing complained.

“Sounds like a skill issue to me,” Spoiler teased.

“Fuck off.”

“Me and Robin will be there in a minute,” a deep voice interjects.

“Loser has to do the splits by the way!”

“Oh hell nah I ain’t doin that shit nuh-uh no way,” Hood said accompanied by the sound of hurried footsteps and wind.

“Yeah, ah-ha see, I ain’t tryin’ to get made fun of on Twitter again so glad your taking the downfall B!”

“What?”

“Father, you can’t do the splits?”

“…”

“Mother really over exaggerated your abilities,” Robin clicked his tongue.

“I used to-“

“The keyword being: ‘used to.’ I can do the splits.”

“No shit dickhead, you’re literally an acrobat,” Hood retorts, “And… I’m back together with Heather.”

“You have an ex named Heather?” Spoiler questioned.

“No the gargoyle dumbass, get with the program.”

“Oh.”

One by one, members of the family arrived with Nightwing ( predictably) being the last to come.

“Alrighty dump truck, do the splits!” Hood exclaimed, pointing at the blue clad hero like in that one objection meme.

“Do it! No balls!” Spoiler challenged.

Doing a few stretches before hand - leading to some delicious cracking noises emitting from his body - he finally dropped down and did the splits.

“Woohoo!”

“Alrighty food time!” Nightwing cheered, getting up from his splitting position.

“Finally, y’all took to long,” Red Robin said with a yawn.

“You should’ve taken a nap,” Hood teased.

“Yeah I was seriously considering it,” he replies, taking a bite out of a Red Robin macaron, humming in delight.

‘I should visit there more often.’

TAGLIST: @grandstrangerphantom @marsbars09 @fabitheraven @lovelypitasworld @dyjcksn [ if you would like to join, feel free to send me an ask or to comment! ]

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daintyshu · 11 months ago

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𝐊𝐈𝐋𝐋 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐄

ix. hee knows (0.72k written)

heeseung watches as his friends walk through the crowded streets of hongdae. despite having been made to pay for their group of five, he was having a good time. it had been a while since he went out with his friends.

even though they live together, the three college boys had been busy studying for their exams and so was his fellow college graduate friend who was tutoring them. most days he would be at home alone, gaming or doing whatever he deemed interesting that day (he should really get a job).

both jake and heeseung just recently graduated and had decided to take a gap year before deciding what to do with their lives. jake's has been eventful so far since jungwon's mother asked him to tutor her son, which then led to him tutoring sunoo and riki as well.

heeseung, on the other hand, had been out of school and unemployed for the past 3 months. he deserved the rest but at the same time it was getting too boring for him. which is why he initially thought of applying at odd atelier after hearing all his friends rave about it —about the insanely pretty girl that works there— all day and night.

he should've figured it out, really. jung yn and park jay had always been attached at the hip since little so of course the jay and yn that works at odd atelier was the one he knew from high school.

"hey, guys! we should go have dessert at odd atelier!" speaking of the devil, really.

heeseung turns to the voice that broke his daydreaming. jungwon had on a bright dimpled smile as he turns to look at his friends for approval.

"i'm down,"

"yeah, sure,"

"yay let's go see noona!"

"you guys go ahead, i've g–" he pauses mid sentence, staring at his friends who collectively gave him looks as if he was crazy. "hyung, weren't you the one who badly wanted to go to the cafe? to see the pretty barista?" sunoo questions.

"i never said it was to see her, all i said was i was feeling left out cause all of you were there," he shrugs, as if unbothered. "hyung, you have to go see her. like i've never seen a real life person as pretty as her," jungwon urges, shaking his shoulders. "yeah, hyung. super pretty," riki nods in agreement.

trust me, he knows. (hee knows 🤣)

"i'm good, guys. think i'm just gonna head home and play some games," he tells them, ready to walk away when jake grabs his arm.

"nope, we live together so we're gonna go home together. and we haven't had good quality time together all five of us so you're coming along. i don't care if it's willingly or we're gonna have to drag you there," it seems jake's words were final since he was already dragging along the older while the other three followed close behind.

heeseung sighs, hoping neither you nor jay were on shift today.

it seems that luck is never on heeseung's side as their group of five enters the fairly empty cafe. he nervously hangs around the back of the group, hoping you don't see him as you and your supposed guard dog were conversing animatedly with riki.

riki turns to see if there were people behind them wanting to order and when he sees no one, he decides to introduce all of his friends to you and donghyuck.

"hyung, noona, these are my friends! guys introduce yourselves," riki tells them and they do one by one.

"hi! i'm sunoo!" he shows off his pretty eye smile which you couldn't help but melt over. the next one introduces himself as jungwon and you think he has the cutest dimples ever. the one named jake goes next and you have to nudge donghyuck on his side so he doesn't bark at the poor boy again.

heeseung wants the ground to open up and swallow him whole when the pantry door opens and out walks your best friend, your ride-or-die, your soulmate since birth.

"ynie, lisa noona wants to know if yo—lee heeseung?" his words get cut short when his eyes fall upon the boy trying to poorly hide himself behind his friends. your eyes widen as you turn to where jay was looking.

"heeseung?"

prev | m.list | next

synopsis. in which you work at odd atelier cafe and can only make hearts in your lattes, causing a certain boy to misunderstand your intentions..... then he brings his friends and chaos ensues.

author's note. ignore the timestamp on the tweet im too lazy to change it 😭

taglist (open): @semisemirin1i82 @txtmetonight @ilyjxdz @miniature-tragedy @n1k1mura @t00miee @manooffline @aerivrs @saranghaohoshi @woninluv

#enha smau #enha x reader #enha x reader smau #enhypen smau #enhypen social media au #enhypen texts #enhypen x reader #enhypen x reader smau #enhypen #enha

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blessed-curse · 1 month ago

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Romance & Characters Profile, (Slight tweak)

Last Redacted Character has been given a profile, decided it would be best to pop a sneak peak of them, since CH.3 is underway and I've put them in earlier than what was initially planned, since I felt Ch6 was kinda to late on introductions.

Name: Ryan Richardson Alias: Golden Knight Gender: Male Age: 25 Pronouns: He/Him Nationality: African American Affiliation:

• Alignment: Hero

• Group: Principality of Nine (Founder)

Type:

• Rank: SSS

• Category: Deviant Category, Attribute Category

• Descendant

Abilities: ◆ Armor Augmentation: Ryan becomes exponentially stronger, faster, and more durable while near or wearing his armor. The armor enhances his natural abilities, unlocks new powers, and sustains him by providing nourishment, slowing or halting the aging process.

◆ Judgment Manipulation: Ryan possesses the ability to pass absolute judgments on anyone or anything, deciding their fate. This ability allows him to:

• Determine life or death and the type of afterlife a person will experience.

• Judge if an individual may retain their powers or abilities.

• Approve or deny intangible concepts, such as the legitimacy of love or emotions.

For this power to take effect, Ryan must speak the target’s full name aloud. Once judged, the target is irrevocably affected by his decision.

Weapon: Durendal (Broadsword): A legendary weapon, synonymous with unbreakable resolve and unwavering justice.

Occupation: Chauffeur & Barista. (Part-Time)

Physical Appearance:

• Height: 189 cm (6’2”)

• Build: Toned and athletic

• Skin Tone: Light chestnut

• Hair: Very dark, bright magenta, straight, ear-length

• Eyes: Intense scarlet

Costume: Ryan’s armor exudes an aura of power and regality. Key features include:

• A golden metallic plating with angular, feather-inspired motifs, designed to radiate authority.

• A regal crest helmet with sharp horns resembling wings, and glowing red eyes.

• Shoulder pauldrons flaring outward, enhancing his commanding presence.

• Large, luminous golden wings extending from the back, blending sharpness and ethereality, adding both defensive utility and aesthetic grandeur.

• A flowing crimson cape beneath the wings, symbolizing his noble aspirations.

• A vibrant blue underlayer contrasts with the golden plating, symbolizing the harmony of strength and vitality.

• Glowing red accents and phoenix-like emblems, emphasizing themes of fiery justice and rebirth.

Personality: Charming and approachable, Ryan is a natural optimist who values kindness and flexibility. His easygoing demeanor belies the fierce determination and moral compass that drive his heroic ideals.

Marital Status: Single

Mini-Sum: "Listen, life is one big game—you’re either the loser or the winner. I get it, the world is unfair and brutal. But!" He claps his hands together with a resounding BANG! "That’s where I come in. I’ll be the cheat system... I’ll break the game. And in the end, there won’t be any losers—only winners."

Backstory: Born in the streets of the Bronx, Ryan Richardson’s early life was marked by abandonment and hardship. Left to die, he was saved by an elderly couple who took him in and raised him with love and strong moral values. Though his upbringing lacked luxury, it was rich in compassion and decency. On his 17th birthday, Ryan’s powers awakened, marking him as a Descendant. From that day forward, he aspired to become a superhero—not one defined by his origins, but by the choices he made and the values he upheld.

At 19, Ryan founded The Principality of Nine, a team of exceptional heroes dedicated to justice and selflessness. Now, as the leader of the group, he balances his civilian life with his heroic duties, working as a barista and a chauffeur by day and donning his armor to protect the innocent as the Golden Knight by night. Ryan’s story is one of transformation and resilience, proving that greatness is forged not by birthright but by unwavering commitment to doing what is right. So will you open your heart to this charming, optimistic fella? Or will you clash heads on what you believe justice to be, that is nothing more than ones own self-righteous ideals being projected onto another?

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

Name: Claire Griffin Alias: Gluttony Gender: Female Age: 36 Pronouns: She/Her Nationality: Irish Affiliation:

• Alignment: Anti-Villain

• Group: The Sins of Desire

Type:

• Rank: SSS+

• Category: Deviant

• Empowered

Abilities: Soul Absorption: Claire can absorb souls directly from their source, granting her a variety of advantages. For the ability to activate, the target must either look into her eyes or be kissed on the lips. The absorbed souls can:

• Enhance her physical attributes (strength, speed, durability).

• Provide sustenance and slow or even halt her aging.

• Add the target's skills and abilities to her own arsenal.

• Augment her existing powers.

When in possession of over a thousand souls, Claire gains the ability to summon soul chains, which autonomously seek and absorb souls within a specified radius.

Weapon: Gáe Bulg (Spear): A mystical weapon tied to her powers, deadly in her hands.

Occupation: None

Physical Appearance:

• Height: 179 cm (5’10”)

• Build: Curvy and statuesque

• Skin Tone: Porcelain (formerly light tan)

• Hair: Loose, wavy, dark lavender reaching mid-waist (formerly lush red)

• Eyes: Bright, deep sky blue

Costume: Claire prefers sleek and provocative spandex suits, never wearing the same outfit twice.

Personality: Cunning, playful, and realistic, Claire is also highly action-oriented and enthusiastic. Despite her darker motivations, she retains a charismatic, enigmatic presence.

Marital Status: Single

Mini-Sum: "I'm not a monster; I'm a mother—a mother who dreams of watching her children grow, of seeing them create families of their own. I long for the day they look back at me with a smile that says, 'Thank you.' But if I stop now, I may never see that day."

Backstory: Claire Griffin was once an ordinary, kind-hearted single mother of two. Her world shattered when a devastating battle between two Descendants destroyed her children’s school, killing them in the process. The tragedy was deemed an "accident," and the lack of accountability or sympathy from others deepened her grief and sowed the seeds of hatred. Her overwhelming pain and anger toward all Descendants led her to a mysterious figure who offered her a deal: power in exchange for her humanity. The stranger warned her, “You shall lose your humanity every time you use this power and will eventually be left with only your desires.” Without hesitation, Claire accepted.

Thus, Claire became one of the Empowered, wielding the power of Soul Absorption. Consumed by vengeance, she now hunts Descendants, determined to gain the strength to resurrect her children. However, with every soul she absorbs, the remnants of her humanity slip further away, leaving behind only the raw, unrelenting force of her desires. So... will you a broken soul fall for another broken soul? Or will you try to stop this monster that only lives on desire and death?

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Name: Sophie Tyler Alias: Miracle Gender: Female Age: 26 Pronouns: She/Her Nationality: American Affiliation:

• Alignment: Hero

• Group: Principality of Nine

Type:

• Rank: SS

• Category: Deviant Category

• Empowered

Abilities: ◆ Flawless Healing Sophie possesses the unparalleled ability to undo all forms of damage—physical, mental, emotional, conceptual, spiritual, and mystical—on any living being or object. The extent and nature of healing determine the toll it takes on her:

• Minor Healing: Requires no cost.

• Includes regenerating critically or fatally damaged cells, restoring lost limbs, repairing internal organs, and healing damaged nerves.

• Major Healing: Drains her life force and/or soul energy.

• Reversing aging to induce youthfulness.

• Resurrecting the recently deceased (1–2 years of her lifespan per individual).

• Healing profound emotional, spiritual, mystical, or conceptual damage draws from her soul directly.

This power is both a gift and a burden, as Sophie must carefully weigh her decisions to avoid endangering her own existence.

Weapon: None

Occupation: Café Owner

Physical Appearance:

• Height: 160 cm (5’3”)

• Build: Petite hourglass figure

• Skin Tone: Light pale

• Hair: Coarse, wavy blonde, shoulder-length, with orange-dyed tips

• Eyes: Iridescent golden

Costume: Sophie’s costume embodies sleek elegance and advanced functionality:

• Base Suit: A form-fitting black spandex suit with gold accents emphasizing her movements.

• Emblem: A glowing neon blue circuit-like emblem on her chest, symbolizing her suit’s energy core.

• Mask: A domino mask with glass eye coverings that double as a high-tech HUD (Heads-Up Display) for tactical insights.

• Gauntlets: Golden gauntlets enhancing her physical strength for combat efficiency.

• Boots: Knee-high black boots with neon phthalo blue trim and side snap buckles for style and utility.

Her costume balances futuristic technology with her nurturing personality, reflecting her intelligent yet gentle nature.

Personality: Sensitive and nurturing, Sophie is a gentle soul who radiates kindness and reliability. Despite her tragic past, she remains outgoing and steadfast in her mission to help others. Her bravery and unwavering optimism make her a beacon of hope to those in need.

Marital Status: In a Relationship...???

Mini-Sum: "I know life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows—I know that better than anyone. B-but if I can bring even the slightest ray of hope to the weak and vulnerable when they need it most... then I will."

Backstory: Sophie Tyler grew up in a domestically violent household. Her stepfather was an abusive alcoholic, while her mother struggled with chronic illness. Sophie's life changed irrevocably when her stepfather struck her mother too hard, leaving her critically injured. While her mother lay dying in a hospital bed, Sophie desperately wished for a way to save her. In that moment of despair, a mysterious being cloaked in darkness and light appeared. They offered Sophie the power to fix what was broken, warning her that this gift came with a cost—every use of the power would exact a toll on her lifespan or soul. Without hesitation, Sophie accepted, saving her mother in what seemed like a miracle.

From that day forward, Sophie dedicated her life to helping others, becoming famous for saving lives, including a mother and her unborn child. Her actions revealed the existence of a new kind of superhuman—those granted abilities through deals with an otherworldly entity. Now residing in Los Angeles, Sophie owns a café on South Spring Street, finding joy in her work and solace in her mission to save lives. For Sophie, every life saved, no matter the cost, is worth it. So will you let this angel of kindness melt your heart? Or are you going to break her's?

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Name: Evelyn Favre Alias: Trinity (The Mercenary Queen) Gender: Female Age: 29 Pronouns: She/Her Nationality: French+Swedish Affiliation:

• Alignment: Neutral

• Group: The Scarlet Fangs

Type:

• Rank: S

• Category: Deviant

• Descendant

Abilities: ◆ Temporal Time Freeze Evelyn has the ability to manipulate time, allowing her unparalleled freedom within its bounds:

• Stop Time: Evelyn can halt time while remaining unaffected, giving her the illusion of teleportation when she moves before the ability ceases.

• Shared Immunity: She can choose to allow specific individuals to remain unaffected by her time zone.

• Temporal Displacement: Evelyn becomes detached from the regular flow of time, allowing her to traverse into any timeline, including erased or closed-off ones.

• Personal Time Manipulation: She can freeze her personal time, halting aging and negating the need for sustenance.

This ability makes Evelyn virtually ageless and capable of executing missions in ways no one else can anticipate, cementing her as a force to be reckoned with.

Weapons: Evelyn wields an array of weaponry, her primary being a high-tech pistol. Her arsenal includes a variety of tactical tools, ensuring she’s prepared for any scenario.

Occupation: Mercenary

Physical Appearance:

• Height: 177 cm (5’10”)

• Build: Curvy athletic figure

• Skin Tone: Apricot

• Hair: Crimson French bob with a side braid

• Eyes: Intense crimson red

Costume: Evelyn’s tactical outfit combines function and flair, creating an intimidating yet practical look:

• Base Suit: A sleeveless, form-fitting black bodysuit with cutout sides for agility.

• High Collar: Offers both protection and a sleek aesthetic.

• Tactical Gear: Red harness straps and buckles secure her equipment, while her belt is lined with utility pouches.

• Armored Bracer: Adorned with a crimson emblem representing her faction.

• Mask: A sharp metallic respirator capable of filtering toxic gases.

• Accessories: Black gloves for precision and knee-high boots designed for combat and stealth.

Personality: Evelyn is a dependable and highly analytical individual who approaches her work with unwavering seriousness and efficiency. She has a realistic outlook on life and remains calm and composed under pressure, earning her immense respect and fear in equal measure.

Marital Status: Single

Mini-Sum: "Listen here, [Mr./Mrs.] Morals. I’m no hero, nor am I a villain—I’m just a businesswoman. If you’ve got a job, I’ll do it. No matter what it is, I’ll get it done... as long as you can pay, of course. So don’t go slapping one of your labels on me."

Backstory: Born into a lineage of professional assassins, Evelyn Favre was raised by her parents to become the ultimate killer. At the age of 8, she took her first life, and by 14, she completed her first official mission. However, upon returning home from that mission, she discovered her family brutally massacred by a newly awakened Descendant. Overwhelmed by grief and rage, Evelyn’s own powers awakened in that moment, enabling her to kill the murderer. With her family gone, Evelyn chose to dedicate her life to honing her skills and mastering her abilities. In her early 20s, she established her elite mercenary group, The Scarlet Fangs, specializing in espionage, security, intelligence gathering, and assassination. Now, she is recognized as one of the most feared and respected mercenary captains in the world. So will soften this fierce beauty's heart of stone? Or will you clash in scene of blood and fire, where it's do or die?

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Name: Nathan West Alias: Morningstar Gender: Male Age: 22 Pronouns: He/Him Nationality: Australian Affiliation:

• Alignment: Vigilante

• Group: The Twilight Twins

Type:

• Rank: SSS+

• Category: Elemental

• Descendant

Abilities: ◆ Living Power Plant Nathan possesses a unique ability to generate and store ethereal energy within his body, making him a living power source:

• Energy Generation: Nathan’s body continuously produces energy, requiring an outlet to prevent reaching critical mass.

• Energy Storage: His body can store vast amounts of energy, which he can release to power devices, fuel his attacks, or provide energy in emergencies.

• Power Limitation: Managing this constant energy output is both a strength and a challenge, requiring careful control to avoid overloads.

This power allows Nathan to act as a literal powerhouse, providing support, offense, and utility in any scenario.

Weapon: Nathan wields a custom-made shortsword forged from Aeolia metal, a lightweight yet unbreakable alloy capable of channeling his energy for enhanced attacks.

Occupation: College Student

Physical Appearance:

• Height: 188 cm (6’2”)

• Build: Lean athletic physique

• Skin Tone: Soft rose beige

• Hair: Golden blonde, wavy, and messy

• Eyes: Heterochromatic (left eye amber, right eye green)

Costume: Nathan’s superhero suit is a high-tech marvel, designed to reflect both his powers and his personality:

• Base Design: A vibrant blend of red, yellow, black, and silver, combining futuristic style with advanced engineering.

• Armor Composition: Crafted from a custom polymer and carbon metals for durability and mobility.

• Chest Core: The suit features a glowing dark matter core embedded in the chest, acting as both a power source and visual centerpiece.

• Nano-formed Helmet: Equipped with a visor featuring encrypted communications, a heads-up display (HUD), thermal sensors, and motion detectors.

• Sealed System: The suit is gas-tight and vacuum-resistant, with a 30-minute emergency oxygen tank for extraterrestrial survival.

• Gravity Loop Boots: These advanced boots enable flight and precise steering by negating gravity, enhancing maneuverability in both terrestrial and space environments.

The suit’s aggressive and futuristic design ensures Nathan is prepared for any challenge, whether on Earth or beyond.

Personality: Nathan is a passionate and confident individual, driven by a deep desire to do good. Though occasionally impatient, he is kind-hearted and direct, preferring action over hesitation. His charisma and determination make him a natural leader.

Marital Status: Single.

Mini-Sum: "All my skills and abilities are mine and mine alone. So why do the higher-ups ruin the world and expect me—a college student—to take responsibility? I’ll tell you why: because it’s the so-called hero’s duty to sacrifice themselves for the mistakes of others, to clean up someone else’s mess. But not me! I’m not going to sacrifice myself for fame, fortune, or power. If I have to be a superhero, it’ll be for one reason and one reason only: to protect the people I care about. Sure, if someone’s in danger, I’ll save them—but don’t mistake me for Mr. Goody Two-Shoes."

Backstory: Born with his Descendant bloodline awakened, Nathan West was destined for greatness from the moment he entered the world. Growing up in a privileged and loving household, he enjoyed the support of his family but struggled with his uncontrollable energy output, making social interactions difficult. Despite these challenges, Nathan remained optimistic and determined. Alongside his twin brother, he decided to channel his powers into heroism, becoming a vigilante to protect society. Their debut as The Twilight Twins was marked by their defeat of a member of the infamous Sins of Desire, a victory that propelled them to worldwide fame as heroes. Recently, Nathan has begun attending college after learning to control his overwhelming energy. Balancing his studies with his vigilante duties, he continues to protect his community as the enigmatic and powerful Morningstar, embodying the hope and strength that his alias represents. So will this arrogant dashing vigilante worm his way into your life? Or will you shatter his pride, his kindness, his very being, into oblivion?

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Name: Ethan West Alias: Nightstar Gender: Male Age: 22 Pronouns: He/Him Nationality: Australian Affiliation:

• Alignment: Vigilante

• Group: The Twilight Twins

Type:

• Rank: SSS+

• Category: Elemental, Deviant

• Descendant

Abilities: ◆ Ultimate Capacitor Ethan’s body is an infinite reservoir of energy. This ability allows him to:

• Absorb Unlimited Energy: Take in infinite energy from various sources without risk of overload.

• Sustain Superhuman Abilities: Fuel advanced powers without physical strain or time limits.

• Extend Survival: Go without food or energy replenishment for extended periods.

• Continuous Output: Provide consistent, massive energy reserves for extended attacks, healing, or support.

◆ Eyes of Thoth Ethan possesses the mystical Eyes of Thoth, granting him unmatched magical prowess and perception. These abilities include:

• Dimensional Insight: Decoding structures, puzzles, and magical formulas, offering strategic advantages.

• Soul Perception: See and read another’s soul, gaining deep understanding or exposing weaknesses.

• Magical Vision: Cast spells through his gaze and view the world through multiple unique perspectives.

• Debilitating Effects: Inflict harm, disable, or destroy targets simply by looking at them. Effects include inflicting pain, paralysis, or death.

Specialized Vision Types:

• Astral Vision

• Chrono Vision

• Divine Sight

• Soul Reading

• Penance Stare

• Magic Detection

• Clear Sight

• Electromagnetic Vision

• Evil Eye

• Heat Vision

• Scanner Vision

The Eyes of Thoth amplify Ethan’s capabilities to near-divine levels, making him an unpredictable and formidable force.

Weapon: Ethan wields Escrima sticks forged with advanced materials that can combine into an electric staff. This weapon channels his stored energy to deliver powerful strikes and discharge energy-based attacks.

Occupation: Unemployed

Physical Appearance:

• Height: 188 cm (6’2”)

• Build: Lean athletic physique

• Skin Tone: Soft rose beige

• Hair: Golden blonde, wavy, and messy

• Eyes: Vibrant sapphire blue, glowing faintly with magical energy

Costume: Ethan’s mech suit is a technological and mystical masterpiece:

• Design: Primarily black with bold yellow highlights, combining sleek futuristic aesthetics with enhanced functionality.

• Material: Reinforced black carbon-fiber plating provides unmatched durability, particularly over critical areas.

• Chest Emblem: A glowing magic circuit on his chest acts as both a personal insignia and a defense mechanism against energy-based attacks.

• Hyperjump Wings: Energy wings capable of immense thrust for rapid movement, creating the illusion of teleportation in combat.

• Environmental Suiting: Fully sealed, gas-tight, and vacuum-resistant, with life support for hostile environments such as space.

This suit offers Ethan unmatched mobility, defense, and versatility, complementing his natural abilities.

Personality: Ethan is kind, selfless, and intuitive, always putting the needs of others above his own. Despite a difficult and sheltered past, he remains flexible and supportive, using his experiences to connect with and protect those around him.

Marital Status: Single.

Mini-Sum: "When I was young, I thought the world was a big, happy place. But life isn’t a fairytale—it’s far more complicated. Reality is messy. People have limitations, people make mistakes, and life isn’t always black and white; sometimes it’s shades of grey. We all face a choice in life: you can be the knight in shining armor, the dark Sith Lord, or even stay neutral. But me? I’d rather be the knight in shining armor. Because I believe that as long as there’s good in this world, the light will always prevail over the shadows."

Backstory: Ethan West’s life began in chaos. His brother’s birth triggered a catastrophic energy surge, nearly destroying the hospital and killing everyone inside. Miraculously, Ethan’s awakened abilities protected those present, though he couldn’t shield himself in time, leaving his body and organs severely damaged. Ethan’s father, a renowned biologist and robotics engineer, dedicated his life to saving his son. He created a vat pod to sustain Ethan’s remaining body and allowed his consciousness to mature while connected to the internet, giving Ethan a window to the world he couldn’t physically experience. Over 20 years, his father built a perfect synthetic body for him, blending technology and biology seamlessly. Upon receiving his new body, Ethan embraced his dream of becoming a hero. Alongside his twin brother, Nathan, they formed the vigilante duo The Twilight Twins. Though Ethan spends most of his time in the laboratory, he patrols at night with Nathan, using his powers to protect the innocent and uphold justice.Ethan’s journey is one of resilience and hope, proving that even in the darkest circumstances, light can shine through. So will you let this kind stranger knock down those walls you've built around your heart for so long? Or will you twist his sympathy and kindness into his own undoing?

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Name: Kina Leilani Alias: Flora Gender: Female Age: 27 Pronouns: She/Her Nationality: Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian) Affiliation:

• Alignment: Hero

• Group: Principality of Nine

Type:

• Rank: S

• Categories: Deviant, Elemental, Beastman

• Descendant

Abilities: ◆ Phytokinesis Kina can create, shape, move, and manipulate plants in all forms. Her abilities allow her to:

• Growth and Manipulation: Instantly grow, mutate, or revive plants, using them as weapons, shields, or tools.

• Combat Versatility: Control tree branches as whips, fire thorn projectiles, and regenerate plant-based weapons on demand.

• Toxic and Pheromone Release: Emit harmful toxins and pheromones to incapacitate or influence targets.

• Support and Healing: Use plant chemicals for healing and manipulate their properties for various effects.

• Entanglement and Restraint: Create vines to bind or choke enemies, limiting their movement.

◆ Botanical Communication Kina can communicate with all plant life through telepathy, speech, or physical touch. This ability enables her to:

• Gather information from plants about past or current events.

• Use plant communication to track individuals over long distances.

Weapon: Kina wields a katana forged from unique alloys, perfectly complementing her powers and providing a lethal edge in combat.

Occupation: Biologist

Physical Appearance:

• Height: 163 cm (5’4”)

• Build: Fit, with a bottom hourglass figure.

• Skin Tone: Medium golden.

• Hair: Waist-length lime green, worn loose.

• Eyes: Vibrant emerald green.

• Distinct Features: Cat-like lime green ears, a signature of her beastman mutation.

Costume: Kina’s superhero suit blends practicality and aesthetics:

• Base Layer: A skin-tight, temperature-regulated suit made of stab-proof Kevlar weave with non-Newtonian impact gel for flexibility and protection.

• Exoskeleton: Lightweight and durable, in a striking mix of purple, black, and neon green. It enhances her strength and stamina while maintaining agility.

• Impact Armor: Strategically placed over vital areas for additional defense.

• HUD Goggles: High-tech interface goggles with enhanced vision and tactical overlays.

• Gravity Manipulation Boots: Spring-based gravity modulators allow for acrobatic feats and gravity-defying jumps.

The costume integrates her playful personality with her combat-ready nature, balancing elegance with practicality.

Personality: Kina is bashful yet curious, always eager to explore and learn. She is versatile and helpful, with a deep-seated honesty and a drive to use her powers for good. Her kind-hearted nature and willingness to protect others define her as both a hero and a healer.

Marital Status: Engaged?

Mini-Sum: "No one is truly innocent, and no one deserves shelter if they’re deserving of punishment. Through suffering, if human beings can’t reflect, they can’t grow. Humans, by nature, are stunted creatures—selfish, greedy, lustful, and, above all, destructive. But if you look closely enough, there’s always some good to be found. And if you nurture that good, it can spread, creating a ripple effect that touches everything around it. So yes, I believe no one is innocent... but that doesn’t mean they’re beyond redemption."

Backstory: Born into a family of conservationists, Kina was raised with a deep respect for nature and a commitment to preserving it. On her 15th birthday, a sudden hurricane struck during a family trip, threatening their lives. In her panic, Kina’s dormant Descendant bloodline awakened, granting her the ability to manipulate plants. Her powers shielded her family, ensuring their survival. However, the activation of her abilities also triggered a beastman mutation, leaving her devastated and struggling with self-acceptance. Years of self-doubt plagued Kina until the passing of her father when she was 19. On his deathbed, he shared words of wisdom that reshaped her outlook on life and herself. Determined to honor his memory, Kina embraced her identity and began studying biology, vowing to use her powers to heal the world and protect the environment. Now a proud member of the Principality of Nine, Kina continues to fight for nature and humanity, embodying resilience and hope. So will you allow this honest, yet surprisingly bashful beauty take root in your heart? Or will you eviscerate this blooming tree of innocence?

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Name: Liam Bekker Alias: Hex (Nacht Demon / Night Demon) Gender: Male Age: 32 Pronouns: He/Him Nationality: Dutch Affiliation:

• Alignment: Hero

• Group: Principality of Nine

Type:

• Rank: SSS

• Categories: Beastman, Deviant

• Descendant

Abilities: ◆ Causality Manipulation Liam wields basic-level control over the relationship between causes and effects, granting him immense but limited power over reality. His abilities include:

• Event Control: Influence the outcome of events and the chain of causality to create desired results within his range of power.

• Reality Redefinition: Manipulate fundamental rules of physics and science, altering their cause-and-effect relationships.

• Destiny Manipulation: Control minor aspects of fate and probabilities.

• Systemic Limitations: Liam’s abilities are constrained to basic causality manipulation, restricting his influence over grand-scale events and universal structures.

Despite these limitations, his mastery over causality gives him a significant advantage over most adversaries by subtly or overtly rewriting reality in his favor.

Weapon: Dáinsleif – A legendary longsword said to be cursed, Dáinsleif complements Liam’s abilities, enhancing his combat prowess with precision and devastating power.

Occupation:

• Model

• Main Shareholder of Serenity Industries

Physical Appearance:

• Height: 185 cm (6’1”)

• Build: Athletic

• Skin Tone: Rosy beige

• Hair: Sky-blue, long fringe hairstyle

• Eyes: Bright blue, iridescent

• Distinct Features: Cat-like ears, a hallmark of his beastman heritage

Costume: Liam’s dragon-inspired mech suit is a fusion of advanced technology and sleek design:

• Base Structure: Constructed from high-tension nanofibers and adaptive armor plating, combined with titanium-carbon nanotube thread weave for lightweight durability.

• Aesthetics: Accented with neon orange highlights, exuding an electrifying and fearsome presence.

• Arm Guards: Equipped with retractable mantis blades for precision strikes.

• Reinforced Nano-Spine: Functions as a detachable whip-like sword and provides balance as a prehensile tail.

• Pauldrons: Horn-like extensions enhance the suit's dragon-inspired aesthetic.

• Gravity Field Generators: Embedded in each joint for enhanced mobility, stability, and mid-air maneuverability.

• HUD Visor: Features a vibrant orange holographic shield with multiple vision modes and tactical overlays.

The suit seamlessly combines functionality with an intimidating design, making it ideal for high-tech combat.

Personality: Liam is a blend of sincerity and reserve, paired with a deeply loyal and caring nature. He is imaginative, often lost in thought, yet driven by a strong moral compass to protect others.

Marital Status: It’s Complicated.

Mini-Sum: Liam rises to his feet, a solemn and sorrowful expression clouding his face. "Do you know what humanity lost when religion collapsed?" he asks quietly. "I'll tell you: they lost belief. And do you know why belief is such a powerful thing? Because it gives people hope—hope that they’re not alone, hope to believe in something, in someone. The hope that maybe, just maybe, there’s someone out there looking out for them. That’s why I do this. I’m a superhero who stands firm in the face of evil. I do it to kindle that one spark of belief, to let it blossom. And from that belief, my friend, comes faith. But never forget—faith doesn’t make things easier. It makes them possible."

Backstory: Liam Bekker is the son of the late tech billionaire Erwin Bekker. Growing up in luxury, Liam had access to the finest resources money could buy—elite tutors, world-class food, and unparalleled opportunities. Yet, despite these privileges, he longed for a deeper connection with his father, who was perpetually consumed by his work. Everything changed when Erwin came home gravely injured, revealing his secret life as a superhero dedicated to saving the world. On his deathbed, Erwin asked Liam to carry on his legacy. Stricken by grief and resentment, Liam refused.

Following his father’s death, Liam spiraled into self-destruction, wasting away his fortune on lavish parties and reckless behavior. However, his life took a dramatic turn on his 28th birthday. On his way home from a pub celebration, Liam witnessed a harrowing event that awakened his dormant Descendant bloodline, unlocking his powers and igniting a newfound purpose. Initially operating as the vigilante Night Demon, Liam later embraced his role as a superhero, joining the Principality of Nine under the alias Hex. Balancing his duties as a hero with his part-time modeling career, Liam strives to honor his father’s legacy while forging his own path of redemption and justice. So will this handsome devil seduce you and your heart? Or will you stand on opposing sides of life?

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SPOILER AHEAD!!!

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Name: Lucifer Morningstar Alias: The Contractor Gender: [Opposite Player’s Gender] Age: Over 4,000 years (exact age unknown) Pronouns: Redacted Nationality: Redacted Affiliation:

• Alignment: Villain???

• Group: Redacted

Type:

• Rank: SSS+

• Category: Deviant

• Direct Descendant

Abilities: ◆ Deal With The Devil The Contractor wields the ancient, infernal ability to forge unbreakable, binding contracts. This power is an extension of their very being, enabling them to manipulate fate, morality, and truth itself. Key features include:

• Contractual Binding: Contracts are absolute, with the terms agreed upon by both parties enforced by cosmic law. Breaching the agreement results in a relentless curse of misfortune so severe it ends in the violator’s destruction. Only The Contractor can void the agreement, though mutual consent between both parties may rarely dissolve the bond.

• Twisted Fulfillment: Ambiguity is The Contractor's greatest weapon. If the other party is vague or careless in their wording, they exploit the loopholes with devastating precision. For example, a wish for eternal life might leave the client as an immortal husk, devoid of senses or joy.

• Initiation Methods: Contracts can be enacted through rituals, handshakes, signing documents, or even a simple verbal agreement. The power ensures all contracts are binding once consent is given, no matter how informal the method.

• Payment Terms: The Contractor demands a price, varying based on the wish. Payments range from wealth, memories, or loved ones to intangible elements such as hope, sanity, or the client’s very soul. The due date can be immediate or decades into the future.

This power not only reinforces The Contractor's status as a master manipulator but also ensures that no deal is ever made without a steep price.

Weapon: The Ledger of Eternity: A blackened tome forged from the scales of fallen Seraphim, this ancient artifact contains every contract The Contractor has ever made, written in celestial script. The Ledger is both a weapon and a symbol of their dominion over truth and lies. It can summon fiery chains to bind opponents or inflict the unbearable weight of broken promises on their victims, sapping their strength and will.

Occupation:

• Real Estate Agent

• Broker of Power

Physical Appearance:

• Height: 190 cm (6’3”)

• Build: Tall and lean, with an unnerving yet magnetic presence.

• Skin Tone: Pallid with an ethereal glow, like moonlight reflecting on marble.

• Hair: Midnight black, long and flowing, shimmering faintly as if infused with starlight.

• Eyes: Irises that swirl with molten gold and crimson, revealing glimpses of a vast, ancient knowledge.

• Markings: Their back bears scars where celestial wings once resided, now replaced by faint, glowing runes etched into their skin.

Costume: The Contractor’s attire exudes elegance and menace:

• Main Outfit: A tailored, black suit with iridescent, snake-like patterns that shift subtly in the light.

• Cloak: A flowing, obsidian mantle lined with glowing gold script in celestial and infernal languages.

• Accessories: A silver necklace adorned with a broken halo pendant and a ring forged from meteoric iron, inscribed with ancient symbols of rebellion.

Personality:

• Cunning and Manipulative: They see the world as a chessboard, with every person a piece to maneuver.

• Twisted Morality: The Contractor genuinely believes they are a force of balance, offering humanity "choices" that reveal their true nature.

• Seductive and Charismatic: Their words are like honey laced with venom, impossible to ignore yet deeply dangerous.

• Jaded: After 4,000 years of watching history unfold, they view mortal struggles with detached amusement, yet they harbor a deep contempt for those who blindly accept the lies of religion and authority.

Marital Status: Single.

Mini-Sum: "I’ve seen kingdoms rise and empires fall. I’ve lived far beyond the lifespan of any mortal. I’ve witnessed things that would turn the bravest of men into cowering, sniveling pups. I’ve seen and done things no one—man or woman—should ever have to witness or endure. So don’t lecture me about the moralities of humanity."

Backstory: The Contractor’s existence predates written history. Born as one of the Celestial Order, they once stood as a figure of light, a bringer of truth to the mortal realm. However, their defiance against divine authority led to their fall. They did not rebel out of pride but out of disgust for the lies and manipulations fed to humanity. The Contractor knows the true events of history—how sacred texts are but fabrications, mixing half-truths and outright lies. They saw humanity shaped by fear and ignorance, their potential stifled by doctrines crafted to enslave the mind. This knowledge birthed their mission: to offer mortals the freedom to choose their path, even if it leads to damnation.

For 4,000 years, The Contractor has walked the earth, striking deals and weaving their influence into the fabric of human history. They have brokered power with kings, whispered secrets to revolutionaries, and corrupted saints with promises of forbidden knowledge. Their influence is everywhere, yet their presence remains an enigma. While they often wear the guise of a villain, their ultimate goal is to dismantle the falsehoods that bind humanity—no matter the cost. So will you choose to follow your heart. Or will you choose to meet the cold lonely embrace of death?

#blessed curse #Cast #Romance List #superhuman #powers!#interactive games

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sapphicromanoffxo · 2 years ago

Note

hiiii, just saw you started to write and i really liked your first wandanat headcanon so what do you think of sugar mommy!nat X sugar baby!wanda? 👀

Aaahhh I screamed with I got this request because I loveeee sugar mommy Nat so much. I also got carried away on this one and this might be a multi chapter fic. Let me know your thoughts! 🤭🫡

Lucky Ones | i. Chance meeting

Pairing: Natasha Romanoff x Wanda Maximoff

Word count: 1.5k

Warnings: specified legal age gap, Nat is 35 while Wanda is 21 (nothing much as of yet? 🤭)

Rewritten 03/19/2024

»»-----------► Series Masterlist

In recent weeks, college life has been hectic, but a welcome break has arrived in the form of Engineering convention week. This week-long event offers students a break from their regular studies, providing a platform to delve deeper into their field through different seminars and workshops. Beyond the confines of classroom theory, students seize the opportunity to expand their knowledge and get the chance to interact with other students as well. Amidst the event, quirky competitions like the pasta stick bridge-making challenge add a dose of excitement, prompting a laughter among participants as they witnessed their own creation fail.

Among the throng of students revelling in this educational event is Wanda, a sophomore in the civil engineering department. She was one of the fortunate students who had been granted a scholarship, though it was never easy to be one of the scholars since she took multiple tests in order to be included on the list. The delight and relief that she felt when she received an email regarding the scholarship was a weight off her shoulders since she would work as a barista in a cafe and would tutor kids for extra income, just enough to sustain her basic necessities.

At the end of the event, a lecture will be held and the chosen speaker was a well respected and sought-after engineer. Natasha Romanoff, CEO of a big construction firm that is very well-known and popular in the engineering industry.

Wanda was so excited to attend the lecture since the woman was the engineer who had provided a scholarship program to the students who are in need of one. She's also hoping to meet Natasha and give her thanks in person.

Wanda found the lecture highly informative and was thoroughly impressed by Natasha's presentation skills. Natasha adeptly explained technical concepts in structural engineering, providing practical examples to illustrate theories.

"I'm grateful for the invitation to speak today, and it's heartening to see so many people sharing my passion for this field. Best of luck with your educational endeavours."

A round of applause rang out throughout the room as they praised Natasha for her wonderful lecture. Wanda was disappointed when it concluded after two hours, wishing it could have been longer to absorb more insights from Natasha.

As Natasha stepped down from the elevated platform, Wanda stood and walked to the side of the room to greet her. Her hands grew clammy with nerves at the prospect of meeting Natasha, so she wiped them on the side of her pants before approaching.

"Um, hi, Miss Natasha. I'm Wanda," she stammered, her nerves evident in her shaky voice. "I just wanted to introduce myself since I'm one of the recipients of your scholarship offerings."

Wanda's words tumbled out in a rush until she finally came face to face with Natasha. Oh, the woman was stunning. Her emerald green eyes shimmered under the lights, her face adorned with a delicate layer of makeup, and a lop-sided smile gracing her lips. It sent a flurry of butterflies fluttering in Wanda's stomach, causing her to trail off momentarily in awe.

"Hello, Wanda. I do recall your name from the list of potential grantees," Natasha greeted warmly, extending her hand. Wanda eagerly clasped it for a handshake.

"I wanted to personally thank you for the opportunity to study at this prestigious university," Wanda expressed her gratitude sincerely to the woman before her.

"You are most welcome, dear. I hope you enjoy your time here and make the most of your learning experience. I'm eager to see what the future holds for you," Natasha replied graciously, her voice laden with warmth at the same time with power. Without hesitation, she offered her personal calling card to Wanda and added that she can call her if she needed help.

After several days of their initial meeting, during which Wanda found herself repeatedly glancing at the card Natasha had given her, she finally summoned the courage to send a message to the other woman. Despite the initial nerves, both Wanda and Natasha quickly agreed to stay in touch, eager to get to know one another.

Natasha's curiosity about Wanda was obvious, as she frequently inquired about her life and interests. Wanda, accustomed to solitude with few friends to confide in, soaked up Natasha's interest with open arms, grateful for the opportunity to share even the simplest details about herself. She would find herself daydreaming about the woman and would always think about the fiery eyes that once looked at her.

Wanda had revealed that she works at a cafe near the university and Natasha began visiting Wanda, initially keeping things friendly and casual. However after a few days of exchanging messages, Natasha's intentions became clear as she expressed her desire for Wanda to work for her, albeit with certain conditions.

Natasha offered to alleviate Wanda's financial burdens, but in return, Wanda would be at Natasha's beck and call. Intrigued by the prospect and Natasha's wealth and beauty, Wanda accepted the proposition, gladly.

Their relationship started slowly, with Natasha's first demand being that Wanda quit her job to focus solely on fulfilling her needs and wants.

After a while, Natasha provided Wanda with a credit card with no spending limit, encouraging her to make purchases that pleased her. This newfound financial freedom was overwhelming for Wanda, who had grown up in an average family and struggled to comprehend the costs of clothing she's been buying, which often equaled her rent expenses.

Natasha didn't rush into inviting Wanda to live with her, understanding that the young woman was still in the process of adjusting to her new environment. Instead, Natasha took a more gradual approach, fostering a close working relationship with Wanda. She even offered Wanda a temporary position, since she is still a college student, within her company to further develop her skills, a gesture that reflected Natasha's genuine interest in helping her grow.

Their daily interactions were filled with stolen kisses, though their affection was only limited to innocent touches and loving gazes. They both understood the need to keep their relationship discreet. After all, Wanda was still a student, just 21 years old, while Natasha, at 35, had already established herself in the industry. Despite the significant age gap, Wanda embraced the dynamic and, in fact, preferred older women, anyways.

While their relationship continued to progress, Wanda occasionally found it frustrating to witness the persistent attention men directed toward Natasha. These men were driven by either a desire to win her affection or to secure business partnerships. Wanda, in these moments, had a front-row seat to all the effort and charm these individuals put into their attempts to impress Natasha.

However, Wanda couldn't help but be captivated by Natasha's commanding presence. Natasha's innate dominance seemed to effortlessly exude from her, especially when she was fully immersed in her professional space. For Wanda, this aspect of Natasha's personality was not only alluring but also a source of pride.

As the months passed and their connection deepened, Natasha decided to invite Wanda to move in with her, a proposition that Wanda enthusiastically accepted without a moment's hesitation.

When Wanda moved in with Natasha, it was a big step forward in their relationship. Natasha was determined to make Wanda feel truly involved and committed to carefully planning how to keep their relationship strong and growing. Natasha laid out her honest and thrilling intentions to Wanda.

"From this day forward, you belong to me, as I belong to you. I am committed to fulfilling your needs, desires, and wishes. In return, I do hope that you will obey and respect my demands, as long as you're comfortable with them."

Upon hearing Natasha's confession, a shiver ran down Wanda's spine. It was the moment she had been both anticipating and fearing. She couldn't resist the pull of her emotions, surrendering her inhibitions willingly to the woman who had consumed her thoughts, day and night.

In return for her commitment, Natasha offered Wanda more than she had ever dared to dream of – a stable home and financial security. These were luxuries that had seemed out of reach, especially considering her past. However, this newfound comfort came with a significant price tag: her freedom. The demands of Natasha's commitment meant that Wanda would have limited independence. Yet, in Wanda's eyes, this trade-off was more than acceptable. The burden of financial worries was lifted from her shoulders, allowing her to focus entirely on her academic pursuits.

"You, Natasha Romanoff, a woman who took me by surprise. To this very moment, I find myself wondering what it was about me that captivated you so dearly. You went through the lengths just to get me close to you. Even if you don't have all this luxury and wealth, I think, I would still be into you."

"Well, it's all because of your good looks and enchanting mind, I can help but to be intrigued. It also didn't help that you look like you are begging for someone to put you in check and tell you what to do. Tell me I'm wrong, detka," Natasha says with much confidence, while looking the young woman right in the eye.

"It all became clear that I do want to be controlled by someone and you are the only person in this world that I would trust to do that."

Natasha smirks at Wanda's admission.

Everything that she planned is falling into place.

#natasha x wanda #wanda maximoff #natasha romanoff #wandanat #wandanat fanfiction #wlw #marvel #black widow #scarlet witch

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czenzo · 1 year ago

Text

Missed Call

[ao3] Skullyle Internet Friends Series: [1 – Pretty Boy] [2 – Missed Call]

summary:

[00:13] Missed call from Skull Lucy frowned at her phone for the hundredth time that morning. “Has he said something horribly controversial again?” Holly said over her shoulder. “No, nothing like that," she said. "He, er— he called me. Or, tried to. It was just gone midnight, I was asleep.” “And this is bothering you because…?” Lucy finally looked up from her phone. “We’ve never spoken over the phone before.” One missed call sends Lucy spiralling. She begins to question her feelings towards her strange, snarky online friend.

words: 3,440 rating: T

notes: to all the lovely people in the comments for Pretty Boy who said they’d read more, this is for you!

edit: @vryfmi made some absolutely STUNNING artwork of a few scenes from this fic, and @edmeom's art of barista lucy and holly is GORGEOUS – please go check them out and give them loads of love!! vry and galri I owe you my LIFE you're amazing

[00:13] Missed call from Skull

Lucy frowned at her phone for the hundredth time that morning.

“Has he said something horribly controversial again?” Holly said over her shoulder. Lucy jumped so intensely she almost pulled a muscle; it was easy to forget how quiet her coworker could be when she wanted to.

“No, nothing like that,” she replied after her heart rate steadied. “He, er— he called me. Or, tried to. It was just gone midnight, I was asleep.”

“And this is bothering you because…?”

Lucy finally looked up from her phone. “We’ve never spoken over the phone before.”

“Ever? You’ve known each other a while though, right?”

“About half a year.”

“And you talk every day?”

“Near enough.”

Now it was Holly’s turn to frown. “And you’ve… never called? Never heard each other’s voices?”

“No.”

“Not even sent a silly voice note here and there?”

Lucy shrugged. “I’m not a voice note kind of person.”

A long, slow nod was her only response, which was more unnerving than Lucy would’ve liked to admit. “Is it weird? That we only ever text?”

Holly made a vague gesture. “If I were in your shoes, I’d think it a little odd, but—”

“Can I get some service, or is this establishment closed for gossip hour?”

Lucy’s head whipped around to find a customer waiting at the till, red irritation blooming high on his cheeks. She bit back an instinctive snarky response.

Luckily Holly had a knack for dealing with difficult customers, and rushed over to serve him with a beaming smile. “Of course! I can’t apologise enough for being distracted. What can I get for you?”

Lucy decided she was in dire need of a break. She set a timer, threw together a cup of tea and drifted off into the break room, finding comfort in the battered settee with with so many cracks and tears the original leather was barely visible.

She drew her phone out of her apron pocket. The missed call notification still sat there, taunting her for not knowing how to reply. Skull himself hadn’t said anything, either, which was incredibly unusual for him. It was bobbing on three p.m.; normally by now he would have sent at least two obscure memes, three colourful insults, and one post from their shared paranormal forum with added commentary on how stupid OP was. Instead, she hadn’t heard a peep from him.

‘Unusual’ was a massive understatement.

Her teeth worried the skin of her lips. What if something serious had happened, and she was too hung up on a silly missed call to check up on him? What if she’d done something to severely piss him off, and the missed call was his last attempt to hash it out?

Or—the most likely scenario—what if he clicked the call button without realising, and she was making a huge deal over something hilariously insignificant?

She took a swig of her scalding tea, let her head fall back to stare at the ceiling for a long, excruciating moment of contemplation, then eventually opened their chat.

The cursor blinked. Lucy steeled her nerves and reminded herself that she was being a complete tit.

[Joan] did you mean to call me?

There! Message sent; she was officially no longer a cowardly over-thinker. She relaxed and sunk further into the chair, but stiffened as soon as she saw that Skull was typing. Okay, scratch that—she was definitely still a cowardly over-thinker.

[Skull] yea we need 2 talk

Shit.

It took an embarrassing amount of time to type her response.

[Joan] shit, is everything alright? [Skull] no its p serious [Skull] thought it wldv been easier 2 talk abt it over the phone [Skull] but ur probs at work rn so ill just text it [Skull] hold on

Lucy straightened and waited with bated breath, tea all but forgotten about. In the time Skull took to type, Lucy involuntarily went through all of her worst-case scenarios one more time, and suddenly felt the need for a drink much stronger than tea. Christ—why was this bothering her so much?

[Skull] ive been diagnosed with [Skull] huge dick syndrome [Skull] its fatal. im so sorry

Lucy slowly placed her phone on the settee, counteracting the urge to lob it directly at the nearest wall. She gave herself a moment to breathe—in through the nose, out through the mouth, just like Holly taught her to do when a customer really got on her nerves—before cautiously picking it back up again.

[Joan] you’re a fucking menace [Joan] don’t pull that kind of thing again. [Skull] HAHAHAHAHAHA [Skull] dont lie joanie. i got you GOOD [Joan] I knew you could be a proper knob sometimes but I didn’t think it was this bad [Skull] clearly u gotta get 2 know me better [Skull] in all honesty tho i didnt mean to call u [Skull] the call button is right next 2 the block button [Skull] an idiotic design choice if i ever saw one [Joan] you ought to send the developers a strongly worded email [Skull] who the fuck says ought in a casual conversation [Joan] it’s a perfectly normal thing to say?? [Skull] yea if ur from the middle ages [Joan] ok shut up we’re not changing the topic [Joan] if you didn’t mean to call me, why did you go radio silent? [Joan] surely the normal thing to do would’ve been to say “Oops, my bad, didn’t mean to call you” [Skull] Oops, my bad, didn’t mean to call you [Joan] dick [Skull] huge one, yeah [Skull] its a serious condition [Joan] 🖕 [Skull] i didnt even realise id butt dialed you lmao [Skull] fell asleep right after. woke up like 10 mins ago [Skull] im a different creature past midnight [Skull] unaware of and unliable for my actions [Joan] good luck getting that to hold up in court [Skull] id charm my way into acquittal [Skull] all the lady judges would love me [Skull] actually so wld the non lady judges [Skull] im just that irresistible [Joan] more like irritating :/ [Joan] they’d declare you guilty so they never have to see your ugly mug again [Skull] u have no proof i have an ugly mug [Skull] for all u know i cld b on magazine covers [Skull] flexing. smouldering. [Skull] rock hard jawline [Skull] rock hard abs [Skull] rock hard thighs [Joan] I’m stopping that list right there [Skull] buzzkill. [Skull] i bet your manager keeps u in the back so ur face doesnt scare off the poor customers [Joan] I’m practically the face of the company [Joan] everyone loves me [Skull] this is some next level delusion [Skull] does ‘everyone’ include Pretty Boy [Joan] this is some next level obsession [Skull] im not obsessed with him [Skull] im far superior than him anyway [Skull] if he saw me in the street hed drop dead [Skull] out of pure shock [Skull] from seeing my rock hard jawline, [Skull] rock hard abs, [Joan] STOP [Skull] my sexy voice alone could crush his ego [Joan] I wasn’t aware voice cracks and nervous trembling could do that [Skull] kiss my arse joan [Skull] you have no idea what i sound like [Joan] and same vice versa

Lucy’s eyes narrowed. She had an opening here—should she take it? She took a sip of her tea, now disgustingly lukewarm, and decided to go for it.

[Joan] is it weird, that we talk so regularly but only ever over text? [Skull] cant say its ever crossed my mind [Skull] why wld that b weird [Joan] I don’t know [Joan] it’s just something a coworker mentioned [Skull] so THAT’S why the missed call got under ur skin [Skull] ur so painfully transparent [Joan] no I’m not? [Skull] denial is not a good look on u [Skull] if it bothers u so much we can just call [Skull] like any normal fucking ppl wld do [Joan] I suppose [Skull] its not a big deal [Skull] unless u swoon so hard at my voice u get a concussion or smth [Skull] which is highly likely [Skull] considering ur delicate disposition [Joan] wtf is that supposed to mean [Skull] last time Pretty Boy called u by ur name u almost dropped ur phone in coffee [Joan] in hindsight [Joan] mentioning that to you was a mistake [Skull] it wasnt [Skull] its a great addition to my joan blackmail bank [Joan] har bloody har [Joan] you’re a comedic genius [Skull] oh em gee its so nice 2 see my talent finally b acknowledged

BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!

Her break was up. Startled that the time had flown by so quickly, she checked the clock on the wall, only to find she was indeed due back on the shop floor.

On the bright side, she no longer had to worry about the possibility of Skull being a) dead, or b) eternally pissed off at her. Instead, her mind focused on the very real chance that she’d be talking to him on the phone in the near future.

Lucy was by no means completely inept; she could handle a phone call when it was necessary. However, phoning her old insurance provider to get them to remove her from their annoying mailing list and calling a close (could she consider them close when she knew so little about him?) friend acquaintance for the first time were very, very different things.

A hot burst of air greeted her as she emerged from the back and settled behind the counter. She’d been a barista at this cafe for so long everything was muscle memory. It was a mostly handy skill, until someone once switched the syrups around and she almost handed a hazelnut latte to someone with a severe nut allergy. Besides that, and… her tendency to text on the job… she swore she was a virtue to the company.

“Got a clearer head now?” Holly said over the sound of milk being steamed.

“Yeah. I brought it up, and now we might actually end up calling.”

“Ooh, how exciting!” Holly beamed, then added quietly, “Unless he turns out to be a creep, that is.”

Lucy took moment too long to reply. “I’m sure he isn’t.”

“…Yeah!” Was Holly’s response, full of fake optimism that was far from convincing.

A third voice—one Lucy was becoming more familiar with these days—came from the other side of the counter. “Who might turn out to be a creep?”

Lucy rushed to meet Lockwood at the till. Even on a Saturday, he was still dressed smartly. “Oh, no one. Just— er, a friend of mine.”

“They only ever text! He could be anyone,” Holly stage-whispered to him.

Lucy gently batted her out of the way. “You don’t need to spill my private life to customers, thank you.”

“But he’s our best regular.”

Lockwood beamed. “Glad to hear it.”

She playfully rolled her eyes and tapped the till screen out of standby. “Your usual?”

“No, actually,” he said, sounding ridiculously pleased with himself over something so trivial. “I’d like to try that new gingerbread latte, please.”

“A sucker for a Christmas special, are we?”

He shrugged. “Who can’t resist a bit of seasonal marketing? I’ll also have a slice of lemon drizzle too, if you’ll allow it.”

A huff of laughter escaped her. “Wow, you’re really branching out today.”

He gave her another one of his toothy grins. As he paid, he quirked a curious eyebrow. “What’s this about a maybe-creep you only ever text, then?”

“Oh, I can’t believe Holly told you about that.” Actually, she could—over the past month or so, Lockwood’s visits had become less by-the-script, and the two of them had learnt more about him than they ever expected to. Of course, it was a two way street, and as a result Lockwood gained a firm grasp on Lucy’s sarcasm, weakness for confident smiles, and now her friendship with a random guy on the internet.

She’d managed to avoid mentioning Skull to him, up until now. She was surprised the secrecy had lasted this long, though she was unsure why she’d been so keen to keep quiet about him.

“We met online,” she said slowly. Thankfully, putting Lockwood’s order together kept her hands busy and her brain occupied, which meant she had less energy to overthink how she’d explain her situation. “Met through a shared interest. We were— er, well, honestly we argued a lot, at first. I’m not sure how it turned into a friendship, but it did, and now we talk pretty regularly.”

“Every day,” Holly added.

“For…?”

Lucy shrunk in on herself slightly. “…Six months? Ish?”

Lockwood whistled, long and slow. “That’s quite a bit of time.”

“Exactly!”

“Holly, shut up,” Lucy said with very little venom. “We’re going to call. We’re going to talk. It’s not an issue.”

He leaned on the counter, watching her dust ginger onto his drink. “Right now?”

“What? No, not right now. That’d be mad.”

“Could be interesting.”

She slid the drink and plate over to him. “Don’t be nosey.”

“It’s in my nature, Luce.” He winked, taking a sip of his drink. “Gossip at heart.”

Lucy’s stomach did a funny flip. She playfully waved him off under the pretence she was in a rush to serve the next waiting customer, and was harshly reminded she forgot to put her phone on silent when her pocket was met with a barrage of vibrations.

As the atmosphere lulled once all customers had been served and seated, she returned to her chat with Skull. Most of it was pure gibberish, a poor attempt at grabbing her attention again by way of spam.

[Skull] did u fucking die??? [Joan] when will you get it into your thick skull that I have timed breaks [Joan] and once said timed breaks are over [Joan] I go back to work [Skull] yet here u r, still txting on the job [Skull] what a rebel u are, joanie [Skull] its cute u spend ur entire allocated free time talking 2 me [Skull] clearly u have ur priorities straight [Joan] if that were true I’d have blocked you ages ago [Skull] oh no, my ego [Skull] has PB swung round yet today [Joan] he just did [Skull] and? [Skull] come on. give me the details [Skull] don’t deprive me of the gossip [Joan] nothing really happened [Joan] he changed his order up [Joan] asked about you [Skull] he fucking what [Joan] my chatty coworker told him :/ [Joan] and he got curious [Skull] did u tell him abt my rock hard jawline, [Skull] rock hard abs, [Joan] stfu that wasn’t even funny the first time [Skull] lies + slander [Skull] what did u tell him [Joan] I didn’t expect you to care so much about what he thinks [Skull] i dont. [Skull] im looking for openings to bully him [Joan] I just told him how we ‘met’ [Skull] is that it?? [Skull] thats so fucking boring [Joan] I mean [Joan] we also briefly spoke about the whole Only Texting situation [Skull] christ. what did he say to that [Joan] he thought I was going to call you right there and then [Joan] on the shop floor [Skull] is he stupid [Joan] hypocrite [Skull] my intellect is vast and varied tyvm [Skull] y is everyone obsessed with the calling thing [Skull] whys it such a big deal

Lucy glanced at her phone sidelong as she wiped down the counters. Why was it such a big deal?

She dwelled on it for a moment or two, but was cut short at the sight of the whole screen lighting up with Incoming call: Skull.

At first, she simply stared. Pressing the red decline button would mean everything stayed as it was—no awkward first phone call, no pressure to make their casual, stupid online friendship something more meaningful, no caving to the expectations of the more socially well-adjusted people around her. But pressing the green pick up button would mean… well, it would mean talking to Skull. Like actual friends. What would they even talk about?

Curiosity gnawed away at her.

Lucy pressed the green button.

“You were staring at your phone wondering if you should pick up, weren’t you?”

She wasn’t sure what she expected Skull to sound like, but it wasn’t quite this. He didn’t sound significantly older or younger, though his voice had a slight rasp to it, and she could hear his smile—knowing him, it was more likely to be a smirk—through his words. It was unfamiliar, yet so undeniably Skull that she couldn’t help but smile a bit herself.

“No. I told you, I’m at work. Busy day.”

“Busy enough that you picked up the phone in the middle of your shift?”

She rolled her eyes fondly and signalled to Holly she’d be back in five minutes—emergency, she mouthed, gesturing to the phone at her ear—and Holly gave her a knowing look in return.

London’s wintery chill nipped at her skin as soon as she stepped outside, but the fresh air was nothing short of lovely.

She squinted up at the sky; grey clouds loomed overhead. “Why now? Why not call later?”

“Got sick of you awkwardly bringing it up over text,” he said, then added: “Wanted to see if you’d pick up.”

“Well, here I am. I picked up. Now what?”

A short pause. “You were the one that was so bothered by it all.”

“I wasn’t that bothered.”

“Er, yeah you fucking were. So, my voice: what’s the verdict? Are you swooning?”

She gave a harsh huff of laughter. “You bloody wish.”

“I can hear you moved outside. Needed some fresh air to cool your blush?”

“Shut up? You’re not funny. Besides, my voice is miles better. I bet you almost tripped over your own feet when I first spoke.”

“I’m nothing but elegant and graceful,” he said, playfully indignant, “even when faced with a really annoying, nasally voice.”

“Charming.”

A beat, then: “I didn’t know you were northern.”

A small, ugly snort escaped her as she contemplated this. At the beginning of their acquaintanceship they’d stuck to an unspoken rule of avoiding delving into their personal lives, but as time passed and they became more comfortable with brutally bullying each other under the guise of friendship, details had come out here and there. They were both English. She worked at a cafe. His go-to drink order was an espresso martini (I’d had you down as a guinness kind of guy, Lucy had said, to which he responded thats the worst fucking insult). The drops of info were random and sporadic, and ended up so Lucy knew Skull had a really stupid tattoo on his left arse cheek, but he didn’t know she was northern—and this, in her opinion, was downright hilarious.

“You do now,” she said. “Look, I really can’t talk for long. I already spend way too much of my shift on my phone.”

“This was an emergency,” Skull said dryly, “you had to succumb to social pressures and modern friendship conventions.”

Lucy huffed in disbelief. “Friendship?”

“Slip of the tongue. I meant rivalry.”

“Of course you did. Denial is not a good look— er, sound, on you.”

He scoffed playfully. “Don’t throw my own words back at me. It’s not my fault you’re desperate for my attention and companionship.”

“And it isn’t my fault you’re projecting.”

“Ooh, you’re pushing it,” he said, and Lucy really could hear his smile. “I could just hang up right now and never contact you again.”

She sighed wistfully. “That would truly be the dream.”

“A nightmare for you, more like. You couldn’t survive without m—”

Lucy took great satisfaction in hanging up on him, and waltzed back into the shop with a lazy smile on her face. To her surprise, it wasn’t Holly whose eye she caught first upon her return, but Lockwood’s. He narrowed his eyes for a moment before flashing a grin—it was his split-second of hesitation that made Lucy wonder if he’d been watching her call Skull through the window.

“So,” Holly drawled, leaning in close as Lucy returned behind the counter, “how was the emergency?”

“Awful. Three wounded, one fatality.”

Holly’s teasing smile froze; it was clear she still hadn’t fully accustomed to Lucy’s sense of humour.

“It was fine. It’s nice to just have that over and done with. Now I can stop thinking about it.”

“What was he like?”

“Exactly how he is over text— no, wait, his ego was actually more inflated. He’s a bit insufferable.”

“The smile on your face counteracts your words, Luce.” Holly playfully nudged her before diverting her attention to a waiting customer, and together they fell back into their routine. After the line had gone back down, she stole a glance at her phone, and held back a snort at the notifications waiting for her.

[Skull] how DARE you. how fucking dare you [Skull] next time we call I’m getting my revenge

#lockwood and co #lockwood & co fic #lucy carlyle #the skull #skullyle #czenzo.fic #skullyle internet friends

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carmenized-onions · 7 months ago

Note

chap pap 2 - electric boogaloo (well actually it’s about plumbing)

you ever start writing and you just cannot seem to find an end so you keep going forever? yeah. - 🧎‍♀️🧎‍♀️🧎‍♀️ i would kill to read your drafts anyhooo

Sitting in the back corner booth (your favourite) with Syd - yoooo the one she sat in with carmy and also mikey’s carving!! tony’s restaurant!! the circles are circling

“You wish you were dead when you’re there, but you’d rather be dead than do anything else?” - onion you are just describing life on a movie set (also i want to find a new nickname for you but i’m struggling)

“Dad cut the cord on his business phone when it transferred to me” - not entirely true now is it chippy!! well maybe it is but i just remember the thing about her not wanting people to be able to reach her after mikey

squidink are so cute, their lil morning date, and what’d you know they shared a smoochy smooch after

You would argue you're not even that close, but he'd slap you upside the head. - AS HE SHOULD!! (i’d go to war for their friendship)

you told Mikey he was getting a mold problem. - chippy is just superior

“S’been a while since he’s had a good influence.” - chippy being close with louis and eva just makes me:’))))

“I’m just saying, you’re alike.” - the way they all see it. oh be still my beating heart

He makes you jump for it - my 5’1 ass would be fucked. i mean i would TRY, trust, but

if you take all his names. - kicking ass and taking names, literally

On your way to the kitchen, you’re stopped and walked backwards to a booth in the corner by Richie. - this makes me emotional. i love them so much stop

not Richie coming with your ice water, but Carmen - pookie!!! wait now i just see the word poo, okay scratch that- BABYBOY!!!<3<3

He pauses mid slide into the booth, sitting across from you. He seemed all cool and collected and is now suddenly extremely caught off guard. Already sweaty. “Y-yeah, I’m better, thank you—” - this is the cutest interaction in the whole series. YEAH I SAID IT

“Carmy is fine. Tony is fine?” “I’m doing okay, yeah.” - HOW AM I NOT SUPPOSED TO BE UNHEALTHILY OBSESSED WITH THEM

You nod down at the dish. “Do the thing.” - i mean i know she’s the guy, but the way they seem so comfortable with each other (like old friends) already is so special to me

Two things can be true - they can!!

“It’s the plate, isn’t it? I told Syd—” - the plate 🥹 rip to a real one (jk it survived, but it was almost a frisbee)

You put a hand on his knee to stop the shaking - now i’m shaking

You’re nothing. You’re— - she and carmy are soooo similar ugh

“Who needs a coffee? Or water?” - my fave barista!!

Marcus has fresh coffee beans (that he’s willing to share!) - marcus crumb<33 backgroud bestieee

It’s too worth it, when she says it like that and slaps your cheek - it would add like 10 years to my life for sure

You switch it for a spiced coffee when he’s not looking. He’s silently very thankful. - chip really is that girl we knew she was

supreme favouritism - which carmy later gets<3

“It’s the one oat milk latte I made.” - oat milk!!!

then darts looks over her shoulder like she’s making an under the table deal - i love them and their schemes so much

Fak running by you to steal a coffee off your tray. - he’s so funny aidjeiri

“Collector’s item...” You nod / “That’s what I fuckin’ said!” - don’t think i forgot about this. i actually have not moved on from this moment

You pivot your shoulder for him to throw it over, hands too busy. / He throws it over your shoulder. - THEY’RE SO!!!!!

“Oh, fuck, missed your twists, Chip.” - he’s so💓💖🫶🏼💕

“Fuckin’ terrible, Carm.” - the way mikey would say this oh OH

Why it shot water straight at my tits— Close your eyes - i know he looked away but like 😁😁😁

removing your walls have completely shattered his. - yo this is so cute??

we must remember, I love Syd. - we must remember that is her gf

“You can’t take yourself?” “Bitch?” - LMFAOOO

“Like… an hour?” “It had been 23 minutes.” - Lakskfkfirorikr remember when we had ALL the comedy

“You’re doing a good job, Carmy.” - 🥹🥹🥹 i miss them so much

You’re considering a career in stand up exclusively for him because it feels like such a reward to hear it. - *evaporates*

“I’d say yeah, probably not ready for a relationship” - he is with the right person (please please please)

oh! i almost forgot but what is chip’s coffee order? i was thinking it seems plain based on the writing (her offering to swap if he didn’t like her fancier take) but i could also see her fucking with some syrups

“I know you’re a Michelin star fuckin’ big deal but like, me personally, I can’t name a thing I got perfect the first time I did it.” - i see how similar she and mikey is now, i really do. carmy you’re in love with your brother - well a mix of your brother and yourself

The Berf shall prevail. - aSJHDHEBSBA ONION

For a Bear, she sure knows how to poke one. - YOUR WRITING!!! mwah mwah mwah

“There’s something about a handywoman that Fak cannot match.” - real

She chuckles, slightly. There is something about you that feels familiar. - *clutches chest*

reading the old chapters now is so!!! like knowing the back story and how certain things are panning out (at least for now) just makes it even more enjoyable to read and to catch all your lil hints. you smartass.

Had to answer one last thing before bed (GUESS WHO DIDN’T FINISH THE DRAFT FUCK!!! But I’m like,,, like closing in,, i think,,, I do hate this last scene so far I think I have to barf out all the nonsense and pull back. Pray for me)

You think you would love to read my drafts but if you did you would find— Well actually, here, here’s a list of just some of the edits/beats I wrote for Something to Do.

Should I be sharing my behind the scenes secrets? Probably not but eh it’s fine. Something to Do had I think the most edits out of any chapter. NONE OF THAT MATTERS THOUGH BABY WE’RE TALKING ABOUT CHAPTER 2 I JUST WANTED TO MAKE YOU AWARE THAT MY DRAFTS ARE,, , BAD.

Anyways. The circles are fucking CIRCLING. I love(d) injecting world moments like that that weren’t all that relevant in the moment but LATER you’re like OH YEAAHHH THAT THING FROM EARLIER!! Chekov’s table carving.

100% I’m describing a set, I honestly did just assume every career is like working on a set— You all not in film also wanna die at your jobs but if you weren’t you’d explode, right? Right? I made the right career choice? Right?

Also NEW NICKNAMES— I don’t love Onion but it seems it has been chosen. And I must live with my fate. Could do Caramel? No one’s gonna do caramel. On my main I am salt, so you could do Salt but I do not imagine this will catch on.

She’s a fucking LIAR!!! This I think was the one full lie I ever let Tony tell. Everything else is pretty much true or of omission but this one yes, she just stopped fuckin’ payin it. Dad’s a business man!! Of course he wouldn’t just cut the cord— You liar pants Tony!!!

100% canon every time the camera cuts on squidink you can assume they kissed in between scenes. Canon i said it!!

This chapter is so telling to re-read, because you can really tell how disjointed Chip feels, without Mikey here— To me, at least. Like, the friendship she has/had with Richie is so barely present with him in this chapter— And she THINKS they’re not close!!! Bitch!!! It’s been you two the whole time!!! I love seeing how much this changed, by Ad Interim. Our baby got her groove back. And you can see it w/ Tina too! I love my mother…. Boots the house…. She’s so very good at seeing people now, I love HER!!!

BABYBOY TIME!!! Cutest interaction in the whole series you say?? Yeah that’s probably true. I was gonna say I gotta try to one up myself but to be fair there’s something about introductions that can’t be matched. Alas. Perchance (you can’t just say—).

100% this was Tony being the guy per usual but I also think like, she’s real special cause she knows Carmen pretty well through word of mouth— To her they are kinda like old friends. And I think that’s also what contributes so well to her COMPLETELY DISARMING HIS ASS as he gets to know her back lmao.

That plate was so fucking close to being frisbee’d— It was gonna be this whole tragic mirroring scene to a scene I had considered with Mikey but pivoted because it just ,,,, did not hit. That plate sure would’ve hit the fuckin wall though yesssiirrrr— (I have much to say about the You’re Nothing, but I will get into that in a later ask down the line I SWEAR THERE’S A WHOLE THING!!)

Anyways, favourite barista !!! I love that Chip has essentially learned every trade by wanting to impress someone. Her dad, Syd, Mikey. She’s so people pleaser. Number 1 people pleaser, my beloved. And then she makes Carmen arguably one of the best coffees!! Immediately trying to impress him after 2 fucking seconds. She’s so fucking dumb. I love her. She is me and I am her.

I would actually love to hear ad nauseam why The Berf shirt is so unforgettable. Actually no I get it. It’s them. This whole moment is just very them. You can see their friendship start to finally peek out and it’s a real joy.

“Fuckin’ terrible, Carm.” - the way mikey would say this oh OH

AND THE CROWD HISSES IN PAIN!!!! Yessir, yessirrrrrrrr— She is SO THE GUY SHE IS SO MIKEY!!! THE FRUITS OF MY LABOUR!!

We’ll come back to this sweetness and comedy eventually. Maybeee. We got some in Something to Do— they’ll be FINE!!

Now Chip’s coffee order— This honestly went unwritten for so long for a couple reasons. 1 - I rarely drink coffee so I suck at having opinions. 2 - Tony is really just an OC at this point but it is still technically insert, so like, whatever YOUR coffee is, is her’s.

But like… now? Between u and me? And the 3 other people that will actually bother to read this ask? I think she’d do a cortado. Half steamed milk, Half espresso. It’s simple so it’s very switchable but I think still very her, yknow?

100% She is just a blend of Mikey and Carmen. HEY HALF MILK HALF ESPRESSO!!!! LETS GO!!! IT’S A METAPHOR NOW FUCK YEAH!!! Now is she a blend of them because I deeply relate to both brothers and really just fuckin stuck my whole self into Tony? …. .i decline to speak at this time

THE BERF!! SHALL!! PREVAIL!!! I need to buy a Berf shirt. Maybe I will use my ko-fi money (i love u) to buy a Berf shirt. Collector’s item.

The whole Nat scene is SUCH A TOUGH READ AFTER TWO STEPS BACK HONESTLY,,, THEY BOTH HANDLE GRIEF IN SUCH DIFFERENT WAYS AND IT’S SUHKFJSFKH FUCK!!! And Natalie just seeing Mikey in her, like fucking everyone does— It’s just so— I’m fuckin DYING!!

Also. I’m so glad tumblr blurs ask photos because I remembered looking at these and then I forgot what they were and then i got to look with fresh eyes again and have a giggle all over again. THE MIRRORJEG— (processing an emotion)I’ll include these in a comp eventually, but here are some from my collection. Meme exchange, only fair.

I LOVE YOU AS ALWAYS KISS KISS I AM NOT GONNA GET TO SHOWER TONIGHT I’M GONNA HAVE TO GO TO WORK WITH AN OILY SCALP AND IT’S YOUR (my) FAULT!!

#yapping #ask #popcornpoppin #extensive yapping #Do The Thing / Toilet Repair #chicagos kindest comp #chicagos kindest #richip

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