#{ i'll be happy to advise! } . ask reply

[singmyaubade]

Lovegame

Poly!Marauders x Female!Reader

A/N: Hello! I've wanted something like this for a while, but I didn't have the time, but now I do, LOL. I hope you enjoy this <333

Summary: What's wrong with having them all if you have the time?

Warning: Containing smut: blowjobs, giving head, p in v, etc... Cursing, and other things. Viewer discretion is advised.

You awoke to kisses along your jawline, down to your neck as a smile grew on your yawning mouth, "Jamesy, it's so early," You said, looking into his eyes as his eyes peered back at you, sinking down your body.

You groaned as he circled your clit before attacking with his mouth, sucking on your clit, causing you to almost scream.

Thank god he was a prefect.

Your finger entangled James's hair, pulling on the strands of his curly hair as he groaned, and you knew James liked you doing that.

You were still sore from last night, and you knew James liked eating your pussy, but in the morning? You knew he was undoubtedly eager this morning for some reason.

He was drinking you like his favorite drink, and it was getting harder not to come.

You rose, holding yourself using your elbows as you watched James devour you.

As he shoved two fingers inside you, you lost it, feeling yourself closer to your orgasm as you came, and you could feel James grinning from ear to ear.

You laid back onto the pillow, breathing harshly as James kissed up your body to your mouth. His tongue is inside of your mouth as he always loved for you to taste yourself.

You pulled back, "What was that for?" You asked him, raising an eyebrow.

"Can't I just be happy to wake up with you?" He asked, kissing your neck.

"Of course you can," You moaned, "But in the morning? Am I missing something?" You asked as he laughed.

"Trust me, I'm just happy to see you," He kissed you before getting up and going to the bathroom.

You watched his bare ass walk away as you were mentally in awe of how you could've ever got him in the first place when he used to fuck girls and never be exclusive.

You and James had met after one of his Quidditch games, where you congratulated him and asked if you could be his trophy.

Of course, but since James Potter is corny, it worked on him entirely.

So you gave him a blowjob in the locker room, and since then, you have enchanted him; it was like no other girl could ever level up to you.

He said you tasted of sweet nectarines in the summertime, and your mouth tasted like cherry, you always thought he was delusional, but since he ate you out so much, you didn't consider it a joke anymore.

You remembered the time, getting up and putting on your school uniform, "Jamesy, I have to go study with Remus! I'll see you during potions," You yelled as James yelled a quick 'okay' and that he loved you.

You yelled it back before rushing out with your book bag hanging off your shoulder. You run to the library to see Remus sitting at one of the tables.

You walked over to the table as Remus had his pointer finger and thumb over by his temple; he looked more stressed than usual.

He always worked too hard for his own good.

"Remmy?" You said as he smiled at you.

"Hey, I got you the books you needed for your essay on Thestrals," He said as you grinned.

"Thank you, I appreciate it," You replied, going over to him and kissing him thoroughly. He was a bit surprised as you held the back of your head.

You were glad it was too early for the library to be crowded.

"Are you making it up to me that you couldn't meet me last night?" He asked with a chuckle.

"Well, I was busy, but trust me, I did miss you in a way," You winked as he laughed.

"Can I really make it up to you though?" You asked, dropping your pencil under the table as you went under the table.

"Y/n." He said as you unbuckled his belt, pulling down his trousers a bit, "We should really study,"

You gripped him in your hand, "Don't worry, go ahead and study; I'll catch up," You said, sucking on the tip of him.

You could feel his leg tense as you rested your free palm on his thigh, swirling your tongue around his tip.

You heard him groan as you took him in entirely, and you could listen to his palms lay flat on the table as you heard, "Hey Moony, do you know where Peter and Sirius are?" You listened to the voice being James as Remus stuttered.

"Uh- they should be out on the field," He took a deep breath, "I think Sirius wanted to try a new move," He said in a small voice.

You cupped his balls in your hand, squeezing them while gagging down on his entire cock.

"Oh, okay," James answered, "Are you okay?" James asked, concerned, “Isn’t Y/N supposed to be studying with you?”

"Yeah, I just am r-really stressed out over this test," Remus answered, “She just went to the bathroom really fast,”

You smiled, doing small licks on his tip as the head of his cock was an angry red color, and you could tell he was close.

James still seemed suspicious, "Okay, I'll see you later, mate, good luck on the books," James laughed before heading out of the library.

You put his length down your throat, and you could feel him spurting into your throat as you swallowed every drop, sucking on the tip for any leftovers.

"Fuck Y/N," Remus sighed as you giggled, sitting back in your chair.

"I really thought you were going to break when James came in," You giggled.

"That was not very nice of you," He laughed back as you began the study with his hand caressing yours.

Two hours passed before you had to head to Defense Against the Dark Arts, and Remus was sad to see you go.

You gave him a light peck on his lips, "I'll see you at potions, yeah?" You said as Remus nodded, going in for a full kiss as you responded with a smile.

You met Remus when you truly needed help with Muggle studies; you were thankful that he was willing to help you and even offered to pull an all-nighter.

And during that all-nighter, he would squeeze on your thigh every time you got an answer right, and you would kiss him on the cheek for helping you.

Eventually, the squeezes on your thigh would turn to something more, and you started kissing somewhere else on him.

You started walking to DADA as you felt an arm grab you into the broom closet; your head hit the back of the closet wall lightly, "What have you been up to?" Sirius asked as you smiled.

"Nothing really; I've been looking for you," You said as he laughed.

"Bullshit," You said, putting his hand around your neck as he kissed your jawline, his other hand groping your boobs, "You wanna say what you've really been doing?" He asked.

"Fucking your two best mates," You responded as you felt him grin.

"Oh really?" He asked, still sucking on your neck.

"Mhm," You hummed, moaning.

"Think you need a punishment," He said, hand squeezing your neck.

You beamed, "You mad at me?" You teased.

"Furious," He said, squeezing your ass as your hands moved to his belt, but he swatted them away.

"Nuh-uh," He said, touching your clit, "No panties? Such a bad girl," He said, rubbing your clit in circles as you moaned loudly, covering your mouth as he moved your hand away, "Let them hear what a dirty slut you are,"

"W-We are going to be late to class," You squeaked as his fingers moved faster.

"You'll be fine," He responded as he unbuckled his belt, stroking himself, kissing your mouth as he lifted your legs around him.

He put his cock inside you as you were sore, and the stretch made your entire body tingle.

He began pumping inside you as your moans progressively got louder, to which he began kissing your mouth to suppress your sounds.

Your nails clawed into his shoulders as he went faster, his tongue inside your mouth.

"Harder," You breathlessly said as Sirius obeyed, going even faster.

"Fuck," You cried as Sirius began going longer with his pumps, signaling he was about to enter you.

You came on him simultaneously as you felt his cum and yours intertwined, dripping. He pulled out of you, tucking himself back in his trousers.

You put your legs back on the ground and felt both of your releases going down your thigh as he searched for a rag, bending down to clean your legs.

"You okay?" He asked, making sure he didn't misunderstand you at all.

"Yes," You grinned, "I'm okay,"

You ran your fingers through his hair as he made sure you were fully clean before he stood up to give you a kiss on your forehead, "I'm just gonna clean up, and then I'll meet you at Potions, okay?" You said as he nodded, kissing you before exiting.

You went to the broom closet, ensuring the hallways were clear before entering the bathroom and providing your makeup was intact.

You and Sirius met at a Gryffindor party where you started grinding on him during your favorite song, and then you guys went back to your dorm, and what was a one-night stand turned into something that was happening continuously.

You left the bathroom to go to Potions, and as you made it there, all of the boys looked at you coming in, smiling on each of their faces as you sent them a wink before you sat next to Mary.

"What have you been up to?" She snickered as you giggled.

"Just playing with the Marauders," You answered before writing in your notebook.

[forbebeandjam]

THE DINER | Bada Lee x Fem Reader | angst

Summary: you’d do anything for the girl you met at THE DINER

Word count: 2.1k

TRIGGER WARNING: this story contains sensitive topic such as murder, blood, jail, and psychologically issues.

READERS DISCRETION IS ADVISED

A/N: hi!! This is a short story inspired by the song “THE DINER” in Billie Eilish’s album HIT ME HARD AND SOFT. I was afraid that I might not be able to express the lyrics through this but I still hope you like it. I’m also not used to writing angst so… yeah. Have a good day or night!!🤍🙂‍↕️

You sat at a small diner in your hometown. All alone. It was almost two in the morning. You had a small cake with a candle in front of you. You, with psycho tendencies, celebrated your 25th birthday on your own. No kid ever wanted to befriend you and you ended up trying to make friends at some point.

So all you did was work from home. Your mother and father split up when you turned eighteen leaving you in that small home all by yourself. You learned that you could never lean on anyone for anything. All you could do was grow attached to fictional characters you watched after work.

You didn't go out much so no one really knew you. You didn't know anyone either. You never wanted to. What was the point either way?

They would end up walking away after a while, leaving you empty and lonely.

So you spent birthday after birthday in your bed, reading books and mangas that your online friend sent you. The only person you truly liked and trusted...

She forgot your birthday. How great! All alone again.

So maybe going out for your birthday wouldn't be such a bad idea.

You let out a deep sigh as you rested your chin on the palm of your hand. You twirled the lighter around your fingers, thinking that maybe setting the place on fire would bring some sort of warmth and comfort to your heart. Maybe even some satisfaction.

"Can I take your order?" You heard a sweet voice. As you looked up, your eyes met with her. The most beautiful girl you've ever met. You looked at the name tag and back at her eyes quickly.

"Um... no, I'm just here for a little bit. I'll blow the candles and vanish," you said and she gasped.

"It's your birthday? Oh my! Happy birthday!!" She said making your guts feel warm.

"Thank you, Miss Bada. But there is nothing happy about my birthday," you replied with a soft blush.

"Oh please. Call me Bada. Also, why not be happy? You're alive and healthy, right? Let's celebrate that!" She exclaimed. The diner was empty with only her and a cook in the kitchen.

"I am sitting here, alone, at two in the morning thinking about burning this place down. Don't you think that's kind of depressing? Crazy even?" You asked as you set the lighter in front of her.

She pulled out a cigarette out of her apron and placed it between her lips.

"You have me now, don't you? You're not alone," she picked up the lighter from the table and lit the cigarette. You started at her in awe. You couldn't believe how gorgeous she looked. How did someone so perfect live in this shitty town?

"Besides, let's be honest. If you burned this place down, you'd be doing me a huge favor," she said with a wink. That didn't. She had you. You were at your knees for her.

"Come on. Let's light your candles," she said as she lit the candles with your lighter. She sang you a soft birthday tune, and you blew the candles feeling the happiest you've been in twenty-five years.

That night, you ate food with her and chatted for hours. She told you she moved here to care for her parents and that she was pretty lonely herself, so you promised to come to the diner every night.

You did what you didn't want to. You let her into your life, hoping she didn't leave. It was just that, her perfect smile and the sweetness of her voice melted you. Her ey smile was now your weakness, and you couldn't think about anything else but Bada.

-

And so the days passed. You would be at the diner at midnight, and she would clock in to do her job. The place was often times empty so you two would have time to chat and laugh around.

However... you started to notice something odd about her. Her attitude was drastically changing. She looked tired and sad her clothes covered more of her body and she would sigh deeply when she was with you.

She wasn't laughing anymore, and you wanted to kill whatever was making her feel that way and make it suffer as well. 

One night, she didn't sit with you at all. She kept walking past as she served two tables. You wanted to call her name but she was just ignoring you. You had enough and grabbed her arm making her flinch and spill some hot coffee on your leg.

You hissed and she apologized as she bent down to clean your leg with a rag. The hot liquid left a red mark on your skin but you could only pay attention to Bada. 

"You shouldn't come here anymore. Please," she said and left without an explanation. 

"Wait!" you said but she disappeared into the kitchen. You saw the cook look at you from his window. He gave you a nasty look and a smirk before disappearing as well. At that moment something took over you. 

You stood up and fixed your skirt before walking to the kitchen where you found the cook holding Bada's arm tightly and he was about to hit her. You used your body to push him on the ground. 

You took one of the knives on the counter and stabbed his stomach with it. 

"No! OH MY GOSH!" Bada shouted. She pulled out her phone and called the cops. You looked at her in awe. 

"But... but I thought you loved me," you said and she covered her mouth. She ran out of the kitchen and you shrugged. You knew you'd do anything to protect her and she would come to her senses. 

You walked out of the kitchen where you saw people's horror faces when they saw you, covered in blood with bright smiles trying to look for Bada. 

She was in the bathroom trying to calm herself down when you walked in. 

"Y/N, you need to leave," she said as she grabbed paper towels and cleaned your hands and face with them. 

"But you, love me right? You need to marry me and kiss me on the head after an argument that you will most likely win. Please..." you said. 

You heard the sirens outside and Bada looked at you. 

"Stay here. Don't go anywhere," she said and you complied with her orders. You patiently waited for her to come back to you and take you far away but... 

The next thing you knew, you were being knocked to the ground and handcuffed. The people at the diner were cursing at you. Bada looked at you with apologetic eyes. She knew you were a lonely girl and you didn't mean any harm... at least not to her. 

You smiled at her and gave her a reassuring nod. 

-

As the days passed, you focused on seeing her again. You only got a restriction order after all since you did tell them it was self-defense and they believed you. Bada didn't speak or testify and what helped you was the lack of security cameras. 

You had never been charged with anything before either so you pretty much had a believable case. Still, you kept your profile on low to prevent alerting anyone but you needed to see Bada. 

The only thing that kept you alive was the memory of her beautiful eyes and smile while she talked to you. 

So you decided to go see her. when you arrived, you noticed there were security cameras all around. You sighed and slipped your hood on getting ready but stopped as you spotted Bada in a car. 

She was sitting next to someone. A man... 

Your guts twisted as you saw her smiling and giggling away and then it broke you. They kissed on the lips. Your blood left your body and you felt a cool shiver down your spine. 

"No... that can't be. She loves me. She can only love me," you bit the inside of your cheek letting the metal-tasting liquid fill your mouth. You didn't bother going to her. 

You went back home and tried to brush it off. You tried to make up lame excuses for her but they all led to the same conclusion- Bada didn't love you anymore.

So you knew what you needed to do. 

A normal person would simply cry and get over it but Bada was the love of your life. You had to protect her from anyone who tried to take her precious love away from you. You didn't sleep the entire night thinking about it...

-

The following night, you went to the diner again. You waited and saw the car pull up again. Bada was in there with the same man and you got angry. 

You waited till Bada went inside to approach the car. 

"Woah... who are you?" the man asked with a confused expression.

"Your worst nightmare," you replied before killing him. It was a quick death and you didn't care if anyone was watching. You took him to the woods behind the diner and dropped his body somewhere dark. 

You cleaned your hands and went inside the diner to find Bada. She looked at you with concern and dragged you to the kitchen where there was no one. 

"What are you doing here? You're going to get caught," she said. 

"Do you love him?" you asked. She pinched the bridge of her nose and sighed. 

"Y/N, you shouldn't be here. Please go home," she said. 

"Bada... Do you love him?" you asked again firmly. She passed around the room. 

"No. I don't but he is my fiance and there is nothing I can do about it," she replied. 

"Do you love me?" you asked. Tears filled her eyes. 

"I can't be in love with a girl. It's not right. You should leave before he comes back," 

"Kiss me. If you love me kiss me and I promise I will make everything right," you stepped closer to her and could see her Adam's apple move up and down. 

And she did. She kissed you like there was no tomorrow and it was all well again. Every single one of your worries died down and you knew at that moment that Bada loved you. 

You could feel a tear roll down your cheek and when you opened your eyes she was crying as well. You wiped her tears and smiled. 

"I love you so much, Bada. You have no idea how much I love you," you said. 

"Let's run away, hm? Let's go far away where we can live together and no one will come between us," you said she nodded. 

She told you to go home and get ready. She would pick you up and you would go somewhere else and you agreed. You would agree to anything she told you to do and you went straight home to get your things ready. 

But Bada knew. She knew when you walked in by that small stain of blood on your cardigan that you had done something to her fiance. 

She knew by the way your eyes looked at her that you had committed a crime because of her and it broke her heart. She did love you. She loved you more than anything but she knew you were a dangerous person. She knew that all of your thoughts would soon turn against her and you would end up more hurt than you already were. 

So she picked up the phone and called the police. She gave them your location in detail and when she hung up the phone, she slid down the wall crying loudly. The pain consumed every bit of happiness left in her body and only the memories of you replayed in her mind. 

She felt the air leave her lungs and the tears wouldn't stop flowing. 

You on the other hand were sitting at the edge of the bed waiting for Bada when you saw flashing blue and red lights. 

You knew what was going on and you didn't care. Bada loved you and you knew that. You saved her from her fiance and that's all that matters. 

So you lived your days in solitary confinement. You called her number every day and sometimes she would pick up but never speak. She would never speak and would just let you talk, listening to your voice. You wrote letters to Bada and sent them to the diner. 

The diner...where your twisted love story began...

Thank you for reading 🩵

[pyrodolls]

i loved you from the start (raiden x gn! reader)

warnings: none!

summary: just a pure sfw story of raiden having a crush on the reader. (gender neutral, only pronouns used are “you”)

a/n: yeah so. remember when i used to be a havik account? LMAOO sorry i think raiden is very laufey coded and he’s so wholesome in mk1 :> anyways this has been sitting in my drafts for 3 days i'm so glad i finally let it out of the basement

“hi y/n! it’s great to see you. lovely weather we have today, right?” raiden greeted, with his signature bright smile.

raiden was well beloved in your village, and everyone always appreciated his and kung lao’s efforts as farmers to help the village thrive. you were never very close to him, but you still respected him.

"thanks, raiden. yeah, the weather's been real nice lately. i'm glad i can finally walk outside without my skin boiling." you sighed.

raiden laughed. "indeed. i'm glad the weather's been going easy on you."

"i suppose so. what about you? i can imagine you aren't very comfortable working under the burning sun. has it been better for you these past few days?" you asked.

you both continued your little banter for a couple hours, just walking around the village with no particular destination. but little did you know, he had the biggest crush on you, and he was ecstatic that he could finally talk to you.

it was because he was usually very shy around you. he gets quiet when there's nobody else around, it was usually you two being together in awkward silence. but today was different. he woke up that morning wanting to talk to you. he immediately got himself freshened up and went around the village to find you with his newfound courage. he was glad his day with you went well and he didn't mess up or say anything weird.

"it's getting dark. the time went by so fast, but i didn't even notice because i was having such a fun time talking to you." you admitted.

"well, i suppose time goes by when you're having fun." raiden smiled.

you chuckled. "yeah.. i guess so."

you both stood in silence for a bit, neither of you wanting to go home.

"you should get home now. it's getting late." raiden advised. he didn't really want to see you go, but he also wanted you to stay safe.

"okay.. goodnight raiden. i'll see you tomorrow." you said, before placing a kiss on his cheek and walking away.

raiden stood there for a solid minute, frozen where he stood. did that really just happen? is he dreaming? he hoped he wasn't.

he walked home with a cheeky grin on his face, and even went to sleep with that same grin. that moment where you kissed him replayed in his head over and over until he finally fell asleep.

that next morning, unfortunately he couldn't immediately talk to you. he had to go back to work. but he was okay with that. he knew once he was done, he can go talk to you again and maybe even offer to take you out for a nice dinner. he was tired of just looking at you from afar, yearning for more than friendship. he was tired of not having the courage to make a move, fearing rejection. he was tired of being completely head over heels for you, and never doing anything about it. he was always feeling as if cupid himself shoots an arrow through his heart every time he speaks to you. he had to do something now.

"you seem happy today. is there something exciting about our harvest?" kung lao scoffed, noticing his best friend's excitement as they worked.

"the harvest? no, not really." raiden replied.

"oh? so if it's not the harvest... is it a special someone? ooh, does someone have a crush?" kung lao teased, playfully elbowing raiden.

"w-what? no.. i mean.. maybe.. how did you know?" raiden stammered.

"i saw you walking around the village with someone yesterday. is that who it is?" kung lao asked.

raiden blushed, hiding his face with his hat.

kung lao laughed. "oooh, i wanna meet this person! let me see if you two are a match made in heaven."

when they got done with their work, they both immediately went to find you. when they found you at madam bo's, kung lao was ecstatic.

"hello there! y/n, is it? raiden talks about you all the time." kung lao greeted. raiden elbowed him.

"oh really," you laughed. "i'm flattered, raiden."

raiden loved hearing you laugh. it was like a sign that you were pleased by something he said or did. there are many things he would do for your approval or just to make you laugh. even if it slightly makes him look like a fool.

"it's such a coincidence you both found me here. you know, raiden and i talked almost all day yesterday. it was very fun." you shared. after hearing what you said, kung lao had a mischevious grin on his face and raiden blushed.

"oh really? that sounds like lots of fun. wanna tell me more, raiden?" kung lao teased.

"i- uh... um.. i have to excuse myself to the restroom." raiden stammered, running off.

you looked over to kung lao, in confusion. "what was that all about?"

kung lao laughed. "i think raiden has a crush on you!"

"me? really?" you asked.

kung lao shrugged. "but you didn't hear it from me. i'll leave you two alone to figure it out."

you sat there, confused, as kung lao left.

"hey, y/n, sorry about that. i guess i ate something weird." raiden laughed. he was lying. he didn't even touch the toilet. he had paced around the restroom nervously until he gained the courage to come back. he sat down across from you, hoping you wouldn't question it.

you laughed. "your friend says you're interested in me."

raiden blushed. "me? uh.. i.. don't know what he is talking about."

you smiled at how flustered he became all the sudden. "no worries, raiden. i am interested in you too."

his eyes widened in surprise. "you are?"

you nodded. he let out a sigh of relief.

"in that case.. how about i buy you some food? we're already in madam bo's. might as well enjoy a nice dinner." raiden offered.

"i would love to." you replied. you both ended up enjoying the food, and became closer that night. surprisingly, raiden was thankful that his friend exposed him. if kung lao never revealed raiden's feelings to you, he wouldn't have such a wonderful significant other now. (kung lao is forcing you two to offer him free food at your future wedding just because he's the reason you two are together.)

[vynanaa]

BIRTHDAY SURPRISE.

Dazai x GENDER NEUTRAL Reader.

TW/CW: Dazai (typical suicide mentions), bottom Dazai, dom!reader, gender neutral reader, oral, strap usage (if you're AFAB), hardcore top reader, little to no plot, profanity, mature themes, (Y/N) usage, mentions of alcohol, he calls you master here.

Note: I do not own any characters in this fictional work. Everything is fake and all by imagination. Thank you. Viewer discretion is advised.

DAZAI IS A man full of mysteries. The only way to figure him out is by reaching his vulnerable points. Though, even it'd be that level of trust, he'd still be hard to figure out. Through his years of living, it was never really easy to get along with him without feeling uneasy, to you, at least.

In despite of his unsettling demeanor, it was still obvious that this man was easy to control in more... intimate, ways.

"Happy Birthday, Osamu!" You greeted with a warm grin as he arrived at your shared apartment, holding up a tray of his favorite dish; crab. He looked worn out, but at your appearance, he smiled. A warm, genuine smile that made the past falter.

"Thank you, belladonna.." The man in question cooed in response, eliciting a soft chuckle from you. You wanted to ask how was work, but you were too far gone to even remember that. He looked very pleased to see you, and maybe eventually, he'd tell you how things had gone in the agency.

Since it was his birthday, you've obviously prepared the apartment clean, and had cooked food for him; which he was very grateful for. The lousy set of alcohol was put aside as to keep him sober, and the it looked rather warm than cold and depressive when it always used to be.

"You did this all for me? That's adorable, my (Y/N)..." Dazai lightly teased as he looked around, munching on the crab with eyes that shine in awe. He looked handsome; you couldn't believe you were just realizing. "Of course, Osamu." You replied with a sweet, yet cunning smile. Though it wasn't obvious, he felt cautious, and a bit challenged, by your look.

"I sense that you're planning something, hm?"

And oh, his senses were so right. You sometimes forget that this man may seem so easy-going, and yet he can read through pages so easily.

"Oh well, that's true..." You teasingly voiced out in a whisper just by his ear, and he seemed to tense up at this. It's not so often he's reactive to these types of stuff, and you were loving it. "Tell me," Dazai started, "tell me what's on your mind, belladonna..."

His voice is hypnotizing, almost bribing your throat to spill your vicious plan; but of course, you stayed tough.

"C'mon now, I want it to be a surprise." You cooed, your fingertips touching the tip of his bandages that were plastered around his wrists. His eyes slightly widened at the action, and he smirked with anticipation of what comes next. "Then, I'm required to eat so I'd not starve, hm?" He hummed in delight, his tiresome demeanor slowly faded away; good. You thought; he ought to remain in the mood in order for him to receive his birthday gift.

Minutes, an hour, a few seconds... The time passed as the two of you were last in a nicely shared dinner before alcohol even came place. You'd best say it's junk, but it's his birthday after all.

"You aren't drunk, still?" You inquired in disbelief that his alcohol tolerance was that high, well, considering it was five glasses, and you rarely drink, it's a bit surprising to you. "Oh, no I'm not. I won't be anytime sooner, trust me."

"Oh, right... you reek of alcohol every night you come home, so I'll not question any longer." You smiled at Dazai, making him finish another shot. This time, he seemed to stop pouring himself a glass. You've only took two shots due to wanting to be sober.

He knew.

"Actually, I'd rather drink something else..." Dazai teasingly cooed, leaning closer, and playing with the cloth of your top's collar. "Oh? What is it? Pray tell me.." You teased back, a light smirk showed your confidence in the given moment. It was obvious he was flushed at this, and he stood up, knowingly, even.

Heading to the room, you toyed with his coat, taking it off and hanging it on the closet handle, while he on the other hand, started to unbutton his vest.

"You're eager," You started, "are you that excited, hm?"

"Just give me my gift.." He replied with a cunning smile. As that came to event, you slowly leaned in to kiss him, and he returned the kiss with neediness full of passion, that of which you originally didn't expect from him.

Making out eventually led to sensual touches, but the man was impatient. He unbuttoned your shirt, trying to touch you all over, but unfortunately for him... you wouldn't allow him without a little begging.

"Nuh uh. No touching." You whispered into his ear, receiving a light whimper of dissatisfaction from Dazai. "But-" You cut him off, "No, you stay put. Or do you want me to punish you, hm?" Cunningly, you smirked and leaned back, fully removing your shirt and your first layers off. His eyes wandered all over your figure, and the desire was vivid.

"Does my boy like what he sees?" You teased and straddled him, making him lie down on his back. Helplessly, he gave in and gave you a needy little expression. How pathetic, you thought. He's such a needy bastard, though he'd never admit that out loud. Maybe he would...

"Please, just give me my gift," He whimpered, "Please... please master?" Dazai bucked his hips upward, allowing you to feel the bulge underneath his clothing. He was getting desperate, and really aroused. "I wanna hear more, now." You teased.

"Fuck me, please, fuck me." He sternly begged, his breath was airy and squeaky, enough to indicate his desperation and submission towards you.

"Hmm.." You pretended to hum in thought, "But you've been really naughty.."

"I promise, I'll be good now! I-I'm.. I'm a good boy, master.." His voice slowly quieted down, as if he's embarrassed to admit this. He was that vulnerable in this matter. "Fine, but I do things my way here. Got it?" You asserted yourself, though giving in.

As he nodded in approval, your hand traveled to his waist, while the other rubbed on his crotch, supposedly feeling down on his hard, clothed dick.

He let out a desperate gasp, his voice hitched and he threw his head back. "I want to hear more. Tell me more, tell me what you need." You teased, enunciating your words as you whispered right into his ear, your breath hitting his plush skin.

He was so obsequious.

"Please, please, please... Please, master (Y/N)," His pleads were rolled out of his tongue, so clearly and so dirty. Hearing him beg was like listening to a classic, it stroke right through your head, your heart. "Fuck me." He finished.

"You're so needy." You commented, though you weren't completely unfazed by his present needy demeanor. His words got to you, the tone of his voice pierced right through your essence. You had to remind yourself that this man was manipulative, and he was in this to get what he wants— what he needs.

It was almost as if his manipulation was getting to you, but... you wouldn't let that happen now, no you won't.

"Alright, but you take what I give you, and what I give you only." You whispered with boldness painting your voice. Dazai nodded in agreement and desperation, permitting you to do as you please to him. He was a mess under you, he always is.

His messy brown hair seemed messier as he's lied down on the soft cushions of your bed, strands almost covering his beautiful hazel eyes. His fingers wrapped around the blanket, looking for some comfort for himself under you.

Seeing this, your hand slipped down to his waist, reaching the bands of his underwear. As you unbuckled his belt, your wrist pressed down his crotch, and though you've felt it just minutes ago, it seems like he's harder than that moment you were toying on his clothed dick.

This provoked you to slide his pants down, making his dick spring up to his stomach lightly, greeting you with a subtle twitch. You've seen it before, but this moment, you can't help but admire its details.

All in a darker shade of beige from his pale skin, the way one vine from another has its own specific size, the length, and how it isn't too girthy... enticing, you told yourself.

Your hand wrapped around his dick, making the precum drip down your hand and around the area it slid through.

"H-hnng-.." Dazai whimpered, closing his mouth and biting his inner lips to conceal his little noises, and tightened his grip on the sheets like he was trying to keep himself calm.

The man was a bit too out of it, his eyes closed tightly— and probably even nibbling on the insides of his lips. So, you gave his dick a sudden rough stroke down. You were eyeing his every reaction, and listening carefully to whatever noise he'll release.

"A-aah-aah..!" He moaned in complete bliss, his naturally noisy and talkative behavior dimmed down by his present obsequiousness. It was just another time he's submitting to you. "Oh, that was barely something.. you're quite sensitive now, hm?"

"S-sh- shut up..! Ah-!" He gasped, before he completed his complaint about your teasing, his dick is damped by your warm and plump lips. Your hand was wrapped around his base, and slowly but surely, you take in his length and girth inside your mouth with pleasure.

"A-ah- ah more, please, more.." Uncharacteristically, the man continued to writhe and beg for more. The mood he lets out was different from his usual outer facade. "P-please- aah!"

He gasped as your tongue reached his base, taking him fully in your mouth. He let out a shaky whine, almost convincing you to do more for him. Your fingers were toying on his skin, right on his stomach; caressing and tracing on his slightly toned body, scarry and textured.

Your eyes met his as you sucked, hard, on his long dick. He seemed close to tearing up, his pupils dilated right in the middle of his hazelnut irises. "More, more please!" He begged and pleaded, while his slender fingers gripped tightly into the soft sheets.

"Mm.. mmnnh..." You hummed softy as you continued to please him, your head ployed up and down his dick, your lips hugged tightly onto his skin. Your hum sent vibrations from his dick to his very soles, his fingertips tingled and weakened from your motions.

His leg twitched slightly, one of his feet slightly moved upward in pure ecstasy. He couldn't control the noises coming out of his mouth any longer, and his face contorted in pleasure. You knew he was about to finish.

"D-don't stop, don't stop, don't sto- aah!" You cut him off by going a slight bit harder tham you already were.

He threw back his head once more, his eyes rolled to the back of his skull uncontrollably. This provoked you to give him a little more than he wants. You went a little faster, your tongue swirling around his veiny shaft as your hands now gripped tightly onto his curved waist.

"H-haah! G-ghh-!" The man's needy whimpers slowly turned high-pitched minute by minute, indicating that he's getting just where you want him to be. So suddenly, his hand's near your scalp, gripping onto your hair softly and pushing you down on his dick.

You eyed him from below; if you weren't right there, you would've been smirking slyly at his desperate reactions to climax.

After a few more movements, he moaned with a light growl, releasing his seed right into your throat. "Mmppf-" You slightly struggled, though consuming all of the fluid he shooted through your throat.

You pulled back to watch him breathe heavily, his chest rising up and falling back down briskly, his voice shaky, to the point he sounded like he was whimpering.

"You're spent, and just because of a blowjob?" You chuckled softly and teasingly, the man who was laid down on the bed immensely embarrassed. "No, I'm not.." He spoke in a breathless whisper, gasping as his chest heaves.

"Alright, keep up your act." You smirked, and made your way to the closets. You fully removed your bottoms, your member springing up to your stomach softly with a light tap noise. "On your hands and knees now, pretty. I'll give you what you want,"

"It's your birthday after all..."

Dazai immediately obeyed, on all fours like a good boy. You decided that you'd give him what he deserves, after a long week of work without much rest to both of you. He was exhausted, and surely needed something to get him off on his free days.

"Good boy, now tell me what you want."

He replied with a whimper and lightly squirmed on the plush sheets. He whispered something you couldn't make out at first, and so, it provoked you to give him a light smack on his rear, now sensitive, rear. "Louder." You commanded with a dominating tone.

"Ah! Please fuck me!" He begged— more so, yelled. He was getting desperate, and it was so easy for you to control him. "Good boy," you cooed into the man's ear and entered him, the tip of your shaft embraced by his needy little hole.

Dazai gasped as he gripped the sheets, his slender fingers making their way to the pillows, just to grip on them for extra friction, or to console himself from losing his mind.

You moved slowly, halfway into his asshole.

"H-hnngh- a-aah!" The man softly whimpered below you, his thighs were mildly shaking from the friction left from his previous ejaculation, and the current stimulation from your thick member stretching his asshole out once more.

"Take it, take it baby..." You— almost comfortingly— whispered into his ear, nibbling on it softly as you held his shoulders for a better grip, to push him further down on your shaft.

"H-h-haah!" His breath hitches as you did this, making you let out a satisfied smile towards him. He didn't dare look at you— he didn't want to. He was too embarrassed to admit he loved it.

With your dick fully sheathed into his warm, tight hole, you let out a soft hum in contentment. A few seconds after, you almost completely pulled out, his little hole pulsed around nothing, waiting to have something to grip onto, to squeeze.

"Good boy, take it for me. Enjoy your birthday gift."

And with that, you gave a harsh thrust into him, leaving him almost jolting up the bed, gripping onto the pillow sheets, and slightly arching his back in pleasure. Your tip kissed his very deepest, which elicited a beautiful whimper from Dazai.

You took your time; slowly and gently pulling out, then suddenly thrusting up against him.

He loved it, every second of it. He couldn't help but whine and writhe under you, resting his face onto the pillow, almost shoving himself down to arch his back and let you do your thing.

"H-hnng-! M-mmnnh..!" Little by little, he whimpered. How adorable, you thought as your thrusts eventually roughen and quicken. He seemed to have shut up from the friction your two bodies made. If this was all it took to shut him up, you'd do this everytime if he was by you, you thought to yourself. A part of you wants to absolutely claim him, and make him cry.

But you're too nice, you even rewarded him for sitting pretty and doing nothing to help you.

You were lost in your thoughts, partly, in the pleasure. All of these thoughts were cut off by the man underneath your skin, by a loud and high-pitched moan that seemed to beg, "more!" You groaned yourself, immensely pleased by the sight unfolding in front of you.

"My good boy wants more, hm?" You cooed into his ear as your hands travelled down to his waist to get yourself deeper and deeper into him. In response, he whined, loudly even. You observed as his hands gripped the pillow tighter while his legs shook in pleasure.

"P-please, please..." He breathlessly begged and ground himself backwards against your shaft. His tip dripped with pre-cum, though it looked a bit intense on the sheets below you both.

You gave in to his desires, going faster, harder. In went on and on again, his response always being a series of whines, whimpers, and moans. Some breathy pleads here and there.

His reactions were amazing, and you took note of every single jolt, and even noise. You'd maybe use your techniques another time.

"Cu-cumming- cumming, please, please let me-"

"Do it. Cum for me, Osamu." You cut him off, fingers laced around a part of his neck, making him face up the wall to the ceiling to get a better quality of sounds from him. You loved it, surely, he did too.

As if hypnotized by your words, the man tightened all around your member, his cum dripping uncontrollably onto the sheets. They'd stain for sure, but you didn't care, and neither did he.

"Ghh- a-ahaaah..!" Dazai moaned as he lied down properly, chest flat against a pillow underneath him, hugging it closely to calm down from the remnants of his ejaculation. You came after pulling out, "ngh.." You groaned, messing on his back and his ass. He didn't quite mind, or he was out of his head to even complain yet.

"Feel good?" You quietly queried as you lied beside him, pulling him into a hug and brushing your fingers onto his brown locks to get a better view of his fucked out face. "...That was amazing," he chuckled, cuddling up to you better, now that he's out of the daze you out him into.

"I love you, baby. Happy Birthday..." You kissed his cheek softly, earning a lovingly teasing kiss on the lips from him.

The two of you then slept well, cuddled up together with the sheets over your bodies, not bothered to clean up the mess, since the two of you were miserably exhausted. Anyhow, the night was warm, and so were your hearts.

[ggomos-maribat]

3 | in which Jason Todd is saved from a catfish

Part 3 of No Mr. Wayne You Can't Adopt Me! | Masterlist

Jason didn't visit the WE building often and he preferred not to anyway. But he had to drop off case files in Bruce's office and receive a lead from the Replacement. He had his phone on one hand, and envelopes in another as he entered the lavish room. Upon finding the space empty, he dropped the files on the desk and ventured outside to ask the assistant.

"Where's Bruce?" His eyes landed on the petite girl, hair neatly tucked in a ponytail and face curled up in concentration.

"Bathroom." Not once did she unglue her gaze from the monitor. "You're chatting with a catfish by the way."

"What?"

"Your phone. Tinder? That match of yours is a catfish."

Jason looked at his phone and then back at her. When did she even see? He'd heard about the girl, Marinette Dupain-Cheng. Personal assistant to Bruce for nearly five months already. The Replacement described her as a miracle worker. Dick liked her because she was good with kids. The demon child said she was eccentric. And Bruce? Every time he talked about her, Jason sensed that he had a new potential adoptive sister.

Though witnessing her behavior firsthand . . . Jason wasn't sure what to think.

"How'd you know?" Jason checked his screen—Gail, a stranger he managed to chat up so he could go undercover during their scheduled dinner date. Partly a cover, but partly just to meet someone new.

"It's obvious by how she replies and that profile photo is clearly fake." She shrugged.

"It's not." Jason was starting to have doubts. Was he a 'boomer' with technology after all, because of his death and revival?

She finally looked at him properly, though bearing a very very judgmental gaze that almost made him squirm. "A catfish is—"

"I know what a catfish is," Jason grumbled a bit too hastily.

"I really advise you to reconsider, Mr. Todd. Sooner or later, this possible middle-aged scammer will try to rob you of your money." Marinette lent her attention back to the computer. "Then ghost you."

"What, like you can find me a better partner?"

"For fun or for long-term commitment?"

Jason opened his mouth yet no sound came out. I don't know if she's joking or not.

Marinette spoke again after his lack of reply. "If you're looking to pursue a real relationship, I suggest considering those who are already close to you. But if it's just a fling, I'll be happy to find potential dates according to your preferences."

He frowned. He already invested too much effort and time befriending his match. But his subconscious betrayed him by letting him think of someone when she uttered her first statement. A red-haired someone. Damn it.

He snorted and started to walk away. "Whatever. I can get my own dates, thank you."

Unlocking his phone once again, he started to make a background check on 'Gail' while looking up what 'ghost' meant.

***

Bruce walked up to his assistant's desk. "I just passed Jason and he seemed out of it. Do you know what happened?"

Marinette only glanced at him for a second. "You don't need to know the specifics of it, sir. Let's just say your second son might not be a bachelor for life after all."

"What?"

"Nevermind."

***

The night was chilly and serene for some odd reason. The dry cloudless sky was a blessing for the city, granting it a peaceful ambience despite, still, the crimes occurring into the late hours. A few vehicles hummed on the road, streetlights buzzed while flickering on and off, and shadows of stray animals crept up window ledges.

Although Gotham was quiet, Bruce's heart wasn't. He fucked up. His grappling gun was cracked from a scuffle earlier that night, and the nearest most convenient place to get a spare was his office in WE. He managed to grapple through the window before the tool finally fell apart.

Now, I just need to find it . . . Batman started rummaging through the drawers, opening all the secret compartments he knew. He was certain he'd left it in some hidden nook, separate from where he kept his backup suit and tools.

He found the grappling gun at last, nestled amongst dusty office supplies inside a box. But the second he lifted it, the door creaked open.

"Who's there?!"

He felt the coldest shiver right under his skin.

He completely forgot Marinette was staying in the building for overtime. There she was, brandishing a kitchen knife at him (where did she even get it? The break room?) and if she wasn't menacing before, she certainly looked menacing at that moment.

"Batman?" She narrowed her eyes. "What are you doing here? Are you stealing from this office?"

Bruce's eyes slightly widened beneath his cowl. Fuck secret identities. Situations like these were always frustrating. He quickly hid the grappling gun away from her view before saying, "I had something to retrieve from here."

He needed to chant to himself: don't you dare use your soft voice. She doesn't know who you are.

Marinette scoffed. "With Mr. Wayne's agreement?"

"Yes. We had a previous deal. He knows I'm here."

"Oh really?" She reached into her pocket and brought out her phone. "So if I call Mr. Wayne right now to confirm, he's going to agree with you, yes?"

His grip tightened on his only escape plan. If I can just get to the window . . .

"Don't move!" Marinette held the knife out as she called his number. "Or else I'm throwing this knife at you."

Bruce wanted to believe that she wouldn't have the skills to actually hit him with that knife, but a part of him wouldn't take the risk. His assistant's steely eyes were piercing him through the dark, almost reminding him of the times when he missed important appointments she consistently reminded him of.

And of course, the phone continued ringing because his business phone was all the way back in the Manor. After no response, she stepped forward with the weapon still out.

"Since he can't confirm at the moment, I'm keeping you here until the police arrive," she told him.

"You can let me go," he replied. "Bruce Wayne is an associate of mine, I've no other reason for being here."

"You're investigating him, aren't you? You have no right to break into his office!" She scowled. "You're so nosy because of your damned paranoia."

"He helps fund the Justice League. There's no reason for me to investigate him."

"He has no interest in things like that; he already funds most of Gotham."

"Hn. What if I told you this was actually my office?"

Marinette scoffed. "I believe Mr. Wayne has more dignity than dressing up as a bat furry every night to beat people up."

That did it for Bruce. Firstly, his mind went blank at that comment as he wondered how he got an assistant so competent that it was backfiring on his alter ego.

Secondly, he was hearing laughter.

He forgot to turn off his comms.

His hand flew up to his earpiece at lightning speed to turn it off. As a split-second decision, he flicked a Batarang to pin her sleeve to the wall and make her drop the knife, before he shot the grapple and swung out. He was afraid that the longer he stayed there, the higher the chance he'd actually reveal his identity to her.

But when he landed on another building, guilt immediately took over. He turned on his comms again. "Oracle, do you have eyes inside the office?"

A long sigh sounded out from Barbara. "Yes, B, she's a big girl—she freed herself from the Batarang."

He let out an inaudible sigh of relief.

". . . And I saved the video recording of the whole thing." To this, laughter echoed into his ear again.

"Tt. You shouldn't have thrown the Batarang, Father, she wasn't at fault." Damian's voice cracked through. "She heard and intercepted an intruder, albeit in a dangerous manner, and she called to check if what you were saying was true."

"I'm sorry, I panicked," Bruce grumbled. He had to make sure to give her a bonus that month. 

[khoicesbyk]

The Royal Romance.

Forevermore.

A/N: this is the next chapter in the journey of my OTP. Follow along for the fun.

Rated: Mature (at times can and will be Explicit. I'll be sure to change the rating when and if that happens). | Contains sexual content and strong language. (You know? The usual. Y'all should be used to this from me by now 😁) | Bolded and/or italicized words are conversations and thoughts of the characters. | Main Characters: King Marquise Rys (LI) and Queen Shanelle Miller-Rys (MC) | All Characters and names: (except MC and original characters created by me and/or other authors [their characters have been mentioned and/or used in the story with their permission] ) are property of Pixelberry.

Current Word Count: 9,875 words. (may be slightly more or may be slightly less. Look, I stop counting after editing and re-editing and driving myself insane. 🤷🏾‍♀️)

If you’d like to be added to my tag list. Just reblog or DM me and I will gladly add you! 😁😘

This series is rated Mature and/or Explicit. It is NOT reading material that is safe for those under 18. Reader discretion is STRONGLY advised!

Missing a chapter or want to read a chapter again? I got you covered! Click ——> Here!

Tag List: @choicesficwriterscreations @kingliamappreciationweek

Chapter 10.) Dèja Vu.

Shanelle couldn't believe what she had just heard. Again. 

"I'm sorry but what did you just say?" Shanelle asked her doctor.

"The urine test you requested came back. You're pregnant ma'am." Dr Andersen replied. 

She stared at him. 

"Again?!"

"Yes, my Queen. You're pregnant again."

"But! But! I just gave birth! To twins!"

"Yes, you did. Over a year ago. And now you're pregnant again."

Shanelle felt like she couldn't breathe. 

"Your Majesty?" he asked. 

"And you're 100% sure doctor?" she asked. 

"Yes ma'am. Your test was positive," he replied. 

"Should I take another test?" she asked, "Maybe this one was a false positive." 

"We can take another one ma'am but it more than likely won't change the result."

Shanelle let out a defeated sigh. 

"I can not believe this is happening again." 

Dr. Andersen looked at her sympathetically. 

"I know that you might not want to hear this but this is a happy time. For you and The Royal Family. You and His Majesty are great parents. I've seen it with my own eyes. And I am happy for you."

Shanelle smiled softly at him. 

"Thank you, Dr. Andersen. I appreciate it."

"Of course My Queen. I will contact your Obstetrician."

"Thank you again."

Dr. Andersen nodded before taking his leave. The reality was finally hitting her. 

"Oh my God! I can't do this again! I can't be pregnant! Not now! I have way too damn much going on to be pregnant!" she thought to herself. 

To make matters worse, she found out she was pregnant two days before her father's birthday. She was so in denial, that she snuck out of the palace and headed to a local pharmacy and bought as many drugstore pregnancy tests as her arms could carry. When she got back to her office she took every last one. And they were all positive. She is indeed pregnant. 

"Damn it all to hell! Of all the times to be pregnant, Mother Nature chooses to do this to me now?!" 

Shanelle let out a frustrated sigh. 

"I can't believe we're doing this again," she said out loud but not alone, "doing what again?"

She was startled by her husband's voice.

"Don't do that!" she said as she caught her breath, "You scared me half to death." 

"I'm sorry."

He took in the look on her face. 

"Are you okay?" he asked. 

"No. Yes? Maybe? I don't know?" she replied. 

"What's wrong?"

"Umm..." She struggled to come up with words. 

"Okay, now you're starting to scare me. What's wrong? Why do you look like that?"

Shanelle took a shaky breath as she sat down at her desk.

"Close the door and have a seat."

He closed the door and then took a seat across from her. 

"Okay, I'm sitting down. What is going on? What's wrong?"

Shanelle sighed. 

"You're about to be a father again," she said quietly. 

"What?"

"You're about to be a father again," she spoke up. 

"What?!"

"Do NOT make me say it to you a third time!" she snapped at him. 

Marquise blinked in realization. 

"Wait! You're pregnant?" he asked. 

"Yes, I'm pregnant. Ya, happy now?" she asked in a frustrated tone. 

Shanelle closed her eyes to keep tears of frustration from falling. 

"Shanelle, look at me," he said to her. 

Shanelle exhaled and then looked at him. 

"You're absolutely sure you're pregnant?" he asked. 

"Yes. I had Dr. Andersen do a pregnancy test and it came back positive. Then I went out and bought my own. They're all positive." she replied as her voice hitched. 

Marquise reached across her desk and gently took her shaking hands in his. 

"If this is true, why do you look so upset?" 

"Because I don't have time to be pregnant! We have two one-year-olds and a six-year-old to raise already. On top of the fact that two cocky idiots are gunning for our thrones. I can't be pregnant now. It will derail my entire year not to mention that it would derail my life! I can't afford that!" she replied as tears started rolling down her face. 

Marquise stood up and brought her to her feet. 

"First of all, I need you to breathe."

"I am breathing."

"No, you're stressed out and upset. I need you to breathe!"

"Is that an order?"

"Yes. Now breathe."

Shanelle closed her eyes and took a few deep breaths.

"Good. Now I want you to hear me. I know you're upset because of the timing of this but my love this is not something to be upset about."

"You don't understand Marquise!"

"I do understand. I understand that you don't want to be inconvenienced. I understand that you don't want to stop. I understand that you'd rather not have to think about being pregnant. I understand that you feel we have enough to deal with. Between raising our children, running and governing our kingdom, and especially having to deal with this god-forsaken challenge. I know what you're feeling. I know you feel like being pregnant will get in the way of all we're doing. But this is not a bad thing. We will do what we always do, we will breathe, straighten our shoulders, hold our heads high, and rule together."

Shanelle felt him rub his thumbs in circles on her knuckles. 

"This is great news, my love. Our family is growing again. Our parents will be thrilled. Our nieces and nephews will be over the moon. And God knows Khari will be insufferable."

Shanelle chuckled. 

"And our boys, they will be big brothers. Can you imagine how adorably hilarious they will be?"

Shanelle nodded. 

"Yeah, I can."

He tilted her chin up so she was looking at him.

"I know this isn't what we expected. Especially you. But this is the hand we've been dealt. And like all things we do in love and life, we will handle this head-on. Because you know I would never allow you to walk this journey alone."

"But I don't know that I'm ready. I don't know if I can devote time to this."

"The woman I married. The woman I share a life with. The woman who gave me my three beautiful children. The woman who has had my heart since the first time I laid eyes on her. The woman I will always say I love you to. The woman who leads one of the greatest nations in the world. The woman I will lay my life down for. The Queen of Cordonia...is always ready."

Shanelle exhaled slowly. 

"Okay okay. You win." Shanelle said before taking a shaky breath, "While I wish the timing of this was much better, you're right. I can do this. We will do this."

Marquise nodded. 

"Never forget. You are a fantastic mother. The way you love, nurture, protect, teach, and defend our children always leaves me in awe. You are gentle, silly, firm, and caring. Our children are blessed not because of me but because of you."

Shanelle smiled softly at him. 

"I wanna wait to tell people though. I want to take one last test. Just to be extra sure before we start telling everyone."

Marquise nodded. 

"When do you want to tell everyone?"

"Next week. Since my parents will be here to celebrate their birthdays."

"Alright. For now, only we will know. So go ahead and order one more test."

"Okay." 

"And don't worry, my love. You'll see that this is a good thing. Even if it doesn't feel like it right now. You'll see, it will be alright."

"I know it will be. I'm just..."

"Still in shock and disbelief?"

"Yeah."

He pulled her into a loving embrace. 

"Listen to me, I know it's a shock. But once it settles, you'll see the joy in all of this." 

"I know I will."

"So let's breathe then get ready for the madness this is about to cause."

Shanelle exhaled slowly. 

"Thank you for talking me off a ledge."

He chuckled softly. 

"It's what you married me for."

Shanelle smiled at him. 

"Hey."

"Hmm?"

She kissed him. 

"Thank you."

"Keep that up and you'll be pregnant twice."

"And...he ruins the moment."

"You love meeee."

Shanelle shook her head with a small smile before she took one last look at the pregnancy test on her desk before putting it away In a drawer and then leaving her office with him. 

The couple was able to keep Shanelle's pregnancy to themselves until her parents arrived that weekend. And that Sunday was the big reveal. After Khari and her brothers sang Happy Birthday the best they could to their Grammy it was time for cake and presents. While Marquise got the cake with the children, Shanelle gave her parents the news. In the cutest way possible. 

"Got an early present for you and Daddy before the kids get cake everywhere," Shanelle said as she handed her mother a small gift bag.  

"What's this butterfly?" her mother asked.

"Open it and find out." 

Shantel gave her daughter a look. 

"It's not bad. I promise."

"I don't know, this may be revenge for that gag gift we gave when you were 9." her father piped up. 

Shanelle rolled her eyes. 

"Your father has a point." 

"Oh my goodness! Just open it!"

Shantel set the gift bag down and began taking the tissue paper out of it.

"Is there a present in here or is this just a bag of paper?" her father asks. 

Shanelle merely shrugged. 

"Honey, you may be right. Your daughter may have finally got her revenge." Shantel said to her husband.

"Good Lord! You two are impossible."

Her parents laughed as Shantel continued taking out more and more tissue paper. When she finally got to the bottom of the bag, she pulled out a small box. 

"What's this?" Shantel asks.

"You have to open it to find out," Shanelle replied. 

Shantel looked at her and then at her husband before opening the box. She nearly dropped the box after opening it. 

"Oh my God!" she gasped out loud. 

"What? What is it?" Damien asked. 

Shantel held up a positive pregnancy test for her husband to see. 

"What?!" Damien asks. 

They both looked at her stunned. 

"Happy Birthday?" Shanelle said to her parents. 

"Are you serious?" her mother asked. 

"Yeah. It's real." Shanelle replied. 

"You're really pregnant?" Damien asked Shanelle. 

"Yes, Daddy. You and momma get to be Grammy and Pop Pop all over again," she replied. 

Their shock slowly turned to joy. 

"Oh my God! Congratulations baby!" her mother said to her as she hugged her. 

"Thank you, momma."

"Another one? When did you find out?" Damien asks. 

"Yes, Daddy, another one. I found out I was pregnant two days before your birthday." she replied, "I hope you and Momma aren't mad that I didn't tell you right away."

"Of course not my darling," he said as he hugged her. "We couldn't be happier for you."

Shantel dried her eyes. 

"Does Margo know you're pregnant?" Shantel asks. 

"No, I don't think Marquise has told her yet," Shanelle replied. 

"Hasn't told me what?" Margo asked as she walked up grabbing everyone's attention, "I apologize to everyone. I didn't mean to startle you all."

"It's quite alright Margo." Shantel said to her, "This is what your son hasn't told you yet."

Shantel handed her the small gift box. When Margo looked into the box her eyebrows shot up. 

"Oh my goodness!" 

"Oh God no!" Shantel said with a laugh, "Not me Margo." 

"Then who?" Margo asks. That's when Shantel nodded to Shanelle and it dawned on her. 

"Wait! You mean?" she asks before looking at Shanelle. 

"Surprise?" Shanelle replied sheepishly. 

Margo's jaw dropped. 

"Welcome to the Grammy for a third-time club sweetie," Shantel said to her. 

"My goodness! Congratulations my dear!" Margo said as she hugged Shanelle. "I am so happy for you and my son!" 

"Thank you, Margo. I just hope I didn't steal His Majesty's thunder. He wanted to tell you himself."

Margo shook her head with a tearful smile. 

"My heart is so full. I am thrilled for you and him. And especially my grandbabies. They'll be thrilled."

"I'm not too sure the boys will understand."

"This is true. But they can learn." Margo said with a happy sigh, "I wish George was here. He would be over the moon with happiness."

Shanelle smiled at Margo. 

"I miss him. I remember how happy he was when we found out I was pregnant with Khari." 

Shantel hugged Margo. 

"Oh, sweetie. He's here. I can hear his laugh now."

Margo smiled. 

"I can too."

That's when Marquise popped his head in. 

"I was sent here to ask if we are ready for cupcakes."

Margo gave him a look. 

"What? What's that look for?" he asked Margo. 

"When were you going to tell me?!" she replied. 

"Tell you wha—" he asked before seeing his wife mouth the words "She knows", "Ohhhhh! That."

"Yes. That," she said with her hands on her hips. 

"I promise I had every intention of telling you."

Margo shook her head with a smile. 

"If only it wasn't considered treason to pop you." she playfully warned before hugging him, "Congratulations my love. I am so happy for you."

"Thank you, mama."

"Daddy! Are they ready yet?!" Khari asked from the other room. 

"Yes, my love! They're ready. Bring the cupcakes in." he replied. 

"Otay (okay)! We toming (coming)!" Kylo replied. 

The kids brought in a cart full of cupcakes with lit candles in them. 

"Alright boys! You ready?"

"Ready!" they replied. 

"Okay. One...two...three!"

"Happy!" Zyon said. 

"Birthday!" Kylo followed. 

"To Pop Pop and Grammy!" Khari cheered. 

Everyone clapped. 

"Okay, now Grammy. You and Pop Pop gotta make a wish and then blow out the candles."

Everyone watched as they blew out the candles. 

"And now the best part!" Khari said. 

"Cupcakes!" the twins said together. 

As everyone was enjoying a cupcake, Khari noticed the small gift box. 

"What's that Grammy?" Khari asked. 

Shantel chuckled softly.

"That is a very special gift from your mother and father to me and Pop Pop," Shantel replied. 

"What kind of gift?" Khari asked. 

Shantel looked at Khari's parents. 

"I'll let them tell you." 

Khari looked at her parents. 

"Looks like the jig's up," Shanelle whispered to her husband.

"Yup," Marquise replied before clearing his throat, "Come here, my love. There's something your mother and I have to tell you and your brothers."

Khari brought her brothers with her. 

"What is it, Daddy?" Khari asked. 

"Yeah? What?" Zyon asked. 

"Well, it's about our family," he replied. 

"Huh?" Kylo asked. 

"I don't understand Daddy," Khari said to him, "what's wrong with our family." 

"Nothing's wrong baby. This is a good thing." Shanelle replied. 

"Oh okay. So what is it?" Khari asked. 

"Our family is going to be getting bigger," Shanelle replied. 

"Huh?" Zyon asked. 

"What dat (that) mean Mommy?" Kylo asks. 

"Hmmm..."

Khari thought for a minute then gasped. 

"Wait! Is mommy pregnant again?!" she asked. 

"Yes, my love. Your mother is pregnant." Marquise replied. 

"Oh my goodness! I'm gonna be a big sister!" Khari said. 

"You already are a big sister sweetie. But your brothers will be big brothers now." Shanelle said to her daughter. 

"Big brudder (brother)?" Kylo asks. 

"Me and Kyyo (Kylo)?" Zyon asked. 

"Yes, my boy. You and Kylo will be big brothers." Marquise replied. 

"What's that?" Kylo asks. 

Shanelle shook her head with a smile. 

"I don't think they understand."

"That's okay mommy. I'll teach them everything I know!"

Later that evening after telling the rest of Marquise's family, Shanelle was out on her balcony before she was joined by her husband. 

"How are you feeling my love?" he asked her. 

"I'm relieved. Part of our family knows. I still have to break the news to a certain group of women."

Marquise snorted. 

"They will eat you alive."

"I don't mind them. It's the rest of the world that I'm worried about."

He kissed her forehead softly. 

"We will reveal to the world when you're ready and not a moment before."

"Are you sure that we can?"

"Of course. This isn't the first time we've hidden a pregnancy."

"But what about my appointments?"

"You and I both know that there are a million and one ways in and out of this palace. And in terms of your Obstetrician's office, there's a service elevator that we can take to avoid detection." 

Shanelle shook her head impressed. 

"You really do think of everything."

"Any way that I can alleviate any of your stress and keep you at ease, I will employ." 

"I don't know what I'd do without you but I'm not willing to find out."

Marquise chuckled. 

"I do it because I adore you. That's why." 

"Well, you've certainly set the bar high for your daughters' future suitors."

Marquise scoffed. 

"It's cute you assume she'll have any."

Just then, there was a knock at their bedroom door. 

"Now who could that be at this hour?" she asks. 

"I'll go find out," he replied. 

He walked to the door and when he opened it there was an attendant on the other side. 

"Apologies for the late intrusion sire but this just came for you and Her Majesty." the attendant said as she handed him an envelope.

"Thank you. That will be all."

"Of course, my King." the attendant replied with a curtsey before leaving. 

Marquise curiously turned the envelope over in his hand. 

"What is it?" Shanelle asks. 

"Let's find out, shall we?" he replied. 

Marquise broke the seal on the envelope and then pulled an invitation out. He read the invitation with an eyebrow raised and finished with a scoff. 

"What does it say?" she asked. 

"Your presence is hereby formally requested to be in attendance at the official Welcome Ball of Lord and Lady Aldon Douglas Joseph of House Gallagher. Saturday, May 19th at 5:00 PM at the Palace of Dalevandon." He read aloud. 

"No, they didn't." Shanelle hissed. 

"They did. And they're having this ball at King Elgin's old palace."

Shanelle scoffed. 

"So this is bait?"

"Mmmhmm. They want a public spectacle and have sent us this in hopes that we'll reject their invitation." 

"Well, they're right. We are not going."

"Oh yes, we are."

"What? Have you lost your mind?"

"You have to remember, this is about optics. If we don't go, the people will wonder why we're letting them intimidate us. Also, I am not about to be intimidated by a couple of amateurs."

"Ugh, I don't want to go."

"We don't really have a choice, my love. By sending us this they're forcing our hands. And if we don't go, they can say that they tried to extend an olive branch and we refused it." 

Shanelle groaned. 

"I hate courtly politics", Shanelle muttered with a frustrated sigh, "Fine. We'll go but we're not staying all night. I want to tuck our kids into bed at night."

"Deal. I'll have word sent that we'll be in attendance."

"In the meantime, I'm getting in the shower."

"Hey! Wait for me!" 

Shanelle rolled her eyes playfully.

The couple spent the next week flying under the radar until her first appointment with Dr. Ramirez that following Wednesday morning. After coming through the service entrance, they were taken to a private room where they waited for her doctor. 

"How are you feeling my love?" Marquise asked her. 

"Everything all at once. I still can't believe I'm pregnant. But here we are about to have another baby." Shanelle replied. 

"I'm sure. But this is an exciting time for us and our family. I know you're nervous but I am always with you."

"I know. It's just all the changes that are gonna happen. With us. With the kids. With the kingdom.  I don't want to not be present and available for them."

"You have my word, my love. I will make sure that no matter what happens, you will always be seen, heard, and felt. Understood?"

Shanelle nodded just as there was a small knock at the door. 

"Well, this is it," he said to her. 

"Time to get this show on the road." 

Dr. Ramirez and her nurse entered the room. 

"Hello, and good morning Your Majesties. It's good to see you both again."

"You as well Dr. Ramirez," Marquise replied. 

The doctor smiled at Shanelle. 

"And a very good morning to you my Queen. Let me say congratulations to you and His Majesty on your soon-to-be newest bundle of joy." 

Shanelle smiled softly at Dr. Ramirez.

"Thank you, doctor."

"So how are you doing? How are you feeling?" Dr. Ramirez asked. 

"So far I'm okay. No early signs of pregnancy or morning sickness yet." 

"That's good to hear. As always we'll check in periodically to be sure."

Shanelle nodded.

"Okay."

"In the meantime, we have an ultrasound to get started. Are you ready?"

"Yeah, I think so. Even though I hate this part."

Dr. Ramirez chuckled.

"I understand why my Queen. But I assure you that this won't take too long." 

"Alright."

"Now I need you to lie back so my assistant Mara can apply the gel."

Shanelle laid back while holding her husband's hand while Dr. Ramirez turned on the ultrasound machine and her assistant applied the gel. 

"Eek! Cold! Still cold!" Shanelle squirmed while Marquise stifled his laugh. 

"I'm sure it is but the chill will dissipate soon." Dr. Ramirez replied as the screen came to life.

"Now, let's find that heartbeat."

Dr. Ramirez gently pressed the wand to Shanelle's stomach, moved it around, and then stopped when the heartbeat was heard. 

"Say hello to your little one Your Majesties," she said gently to the couple. 

The couple was in awe. 

"Oh my God. They're real. Our baby is real." Shanelle with tears in her eyes. 

"They're real. This is real. This is actually happening." Marquise spoke up. 

They watched as Dr. Ramirez moved the wand around a little more. 

"And this time, it's only one baby."

Shanelle let out a sigh of relief.

"Oh thank God! I would've died if you said it was twins again." 

Dr. Ramirez chuckled. 

"No no. Just one."

Marquise nodded slowly. 

"At least now we know. Thank you, Doctor." 

Dr. Ramirez smiled at Marquise. 

"Of course Your Majesty. Again I am happy for you both."

"We appreciate that," Shanelle said to her. 

"We'll get you cleaned up then we'll give you two a moment alone. But so far we're off to a great start."

After cleaning the gel off Shanelle's stomach, the couple sat together in shock and love. 

"Life loves playing jokes on us, doesn't it?" Shanelle asked her husband. 

"Indeed. How are you feeling?" he replied. 

"I think reality is finally setting in. I think I'm slowly coming to terms with all of this," she replied. 

Marquise nodded. 

"It's a lot. Like a whole lot. But I know you. I know your strength. I know your perseverance. I know your tenacity. And God knows I know your love. I promise this will go smoothly. Unlike everything else in our lives."

Shanelle snorted. 

"Well, when you put it that way, bring it on." 

"There ya go! That's the spirit."

He rubbed circles on the knuckles of her right hand. 

"You never cease to amaze me."

"You always say that."

"Because it's true. Every single day that I get to spend in your light is a blessing I will never take for granted. That's how much you mean to me. That's how much I adore you."

Shanelle smiled softly at him. 

"Hey."

"Hmm?"

She leaned over and kissed him sweetly. 

"I love you."

"I love you too, my love."

He smiled against her lips. 

"I'll call the car."

Shanelle nodded before he stepped outside. When he did he was greeted by Dr. Ramirez. 

"Your Majesty. I'm glad I caught you. I wanted to know if we should do the monthly check-ins that  we did the last time Her Majesty was pregnant."

"Yes ma'am. I would. Again it's not that I want to hide anything from her but if something should arise."

Dr. Ramirez nodded. 

"You will always be my first call."

"Thank you, Doctor."

Marquise stepped away from her to call their car. Later that day, it was time for Shanelle to tell the girls. 

"Now that I have you all gathered here today I have something to tell you lot."

"What is it, Princess?" Nina asked. 

"Now before I tell you girls what I have to say I just wanna preface what I'm gonna say with this, it's all Nina's fault! Y'all can blame her for what I'm about to say." Shanelle replied 

"Me?! What did I do?" Nina asked. 

"You were breathing on me! This is all your fault!" Shanelle replies, "You infected me with your cooties! I blame you!" 

"Oh my God! I haven't seen you since January!"

"That's how long your cooties have been on me. And now..."

The girls were stuck. They didn't know what Shanelle was talking about. 

"What are you rambling about Nelle?" Nina asked. 

Shanelle shook her head with a hand covering her smile that's when it dawned on Nina. 

"OH MY GOD! YOU'RE PREGNANT!" Nina guessed. 

"What?!" the rest of the girls asked. 

"Told y'all it was Nina's fault. She was spreading her pregnancy germs around and I caught them."

The girls cheered. 

"Congratulations baby!" Robin said to her. 

"Thank you, babe."

"I can't believe you're pregnant again!" Bron quipped. 

"I know right?" Shanelle said to her. 

"How are the kids?" Dee asked. 

"Well, the boys don't quite understand what's going on just yet. But Khari? She is...excitedly insufferable." Shanelle replied. 

The girls laughed. 

"Stop that! My Princess is allowed to be happy." Nina said to her. 

"We're so happy for you," Chutney said to her. 

"Thank you, my love," Shanelle replied. 

"How are you feeling?" Aly asks. 

"I am...everything, everywhere, all at once. Honestly when I found out I didn't believe it at first. Hell, I didn't want to believe it. But when it was confirmed that I am indeed with child...I couldn't deny it anymore." Shanelle replied. 

"When did you find out?" Nina asks. 

"Two days before my dad's birthday," Shanelle replied. 

"And you're just now telling us?" Robin asked. 

"Again I was deep in denial. At first, I thought the first test I took might've been a false positive. But when I took at least 8 more tests, they all said the same thing. And well here we are." Shanelle replied. 

"So are you having twins again?" Bron asked. 

Nina cackled. 

"No! Thank God! Besides, my uterus would've staged a mutiny if it was revealed I was having twins again. Thankfully for me, there is only one bun in this oven." Shanelle replied, "this time around the only one having twins is your sister-in-law."

Bronwyn laughed. 

"Well, congratulations anyway. You're a great mom."

"Thank you, baby. Thank you all really. It means a lot to me that you all are happy for me."

"Of course we're happy. Our family is getting bigger." Robin said to her. 

"Some might say that we're the mob." Aly quipped.

The girls all laughed. 

"Nah. The mob is way too disorganized. Besides, they never get away with it. Unlike us." Shanelle said. 

"True!" the girls agreed. 

After speaking with the girls Shanelle found herself out on her bedroom balcony and was joined by her husband who was just ending a phone call. 

"Yeah yeah. Asshole. Thanks again. I'll talk to you soon. Love you too." he said as he hung up the phone. 

"Who was that?" she asked him. 

"Leo. I told him you're pregnant," he replied. 

"Oh good. How is he?" she asks. 

"He's good. He's excited for us. How are the girls doing? How'd they take the news?" 

"They're good. They're excited."

"You didn't blame Nina for you being pregnant did you?" 

"It's her fault. And you know it."

Marquise shook his head with a smile before wrapping his arms around her waist. 

"And now it'll soon be time to tell the world." 

"We will tell the world when you're ready. Not a moment before."

Shanelle sighed contently. 

"So we're really doing this again?" she asked. 

"Mmmhmm. We are doing this again. We will be welcoming a new little one into our family." he replied. 

Shanelle smiled softly. 

"I swear I'm not in denial. It's just..."

"You're still in shock?" he asks. 

"Yeah. I keep thinking I'm dreaming. But nope! I'm wide awake."

He kissed the back of her left shoulder. 

"I'm excited for us. I know I could never go through the changes that you'll go through but I will always be with you and at your side."

"You'd be sickening if I didn't have such a giant praise kink."

"That's why I do it," he said before kissing the back of her left ear. 

"I guess I'm still struggling with the timing of this pregnancy. Well, that and the fact that we're being forced to attend this Welcoming Ball in a few weeks."

That gave Marquise an idea. 

"That gives me an idea."

"What?" she asked. 

"Since we are discussing timing, why don't we announce your pregnancy on Mother's Day? Which is also a week before their so-called ball," he replied. 

"That would certainly steal their thunder. And would force them to share their spotlight that night with us." 

"Precisely."

Shanelle nodded. 

"Okay. We'll announce it then."

"I love it when a plan comes together."

Over the next few weeks, The Royal Couple was able to keep Her Majesty's pregnancy quiet until their announcement on Mother's Day. It took the kingdom by storm and as Marquise predicted, stole the momentum from Lord and Lady Gallagher. Many were happy and excited about the soon-to-be newest royal baby. 

On the day of the Welcome Ball, the couple got ready. Choosing to go with a 20s glam. Shanelle picked a strapless navy blue crushed velour dress that fit and flattered her beginning baby bump with long white gloves. Marquise whistled low when he saw her. 

"Now what is a fine-looking filly such as yourself doing in a place like this?" he asked, showing off his Boston accent. 

Shanelle snickered. 

"You've been working on your Boston accent again." 

"You like it?"

"I certainly do," she replied in a southern belle voice, "well sir, if you must know I happen to enjoy the very finest things in life."

The couple laughed before saying goodbye to their children and making the journey to Dalevandon in what was once West Cordonia. The ride was quiet and pleasant, taking them through the Gianko Valley. As they arrived in the former capital of West Cordonia, Marquise took a deep breath.

"Are you okay?" Shanelle whispered to her husband. 

"Yes, I'm fine. It's just been a while since I've been here. I have...mixed feelings about this palace."

"I'm sure. You spent a lot of time here. After all, your ex grew up here. It's perfectly okay to feel conflicted about being here."

Marquise nodded as they pulled into the motor court. 

"Well, we're here," she said to him. 

Marquise peered out of their limo window. 

"Indeed. And so is the press."

"Hmmm...with us announcing my pregnancy last Sunday, how do you think Lord and Lady Gallagher will react?" she asked. 

"Forcibly polite," he replied as he fixed his watch, "now shall we go dazzle the masses?"

"Lead the way, Your Majesty." 

Marquise was the first to step out of the limo, shielding his wife from the various camera flashes. Once she exited, he took her hand in his and smiled at the cameras. 

"Good evening everyone!" Marquise said to the members of the press. Many clamored to the King. 

"Your Majesties! Your Majesties! Over here!" many were heard shouting at the couple for their attention. 

"Your Majesties! Giacomo Torres here! First off let me say congratulations to you and Her Majesty on your new bundle of joy." He said to Marquise. 

"Thank you kindly," Marquise replied. 

"With Lord and Lady Gallagher challenging for the throne, many want to know why you're here tonight?" he asked the couple.

"We were invited by Lord and Lady Gallagher and it would be incredibly rude to refuse such an invite," Shanelle replied. 

"Agreed. Speaking of you Your Majesty, how are you feeling?" he asked. 

"I'm doing good, thank you for asking. No early signs of morning sickness so far."

"And how are the heirs? Are they excited?"

"Our boys are still very young so they don't really understand what is going on. But their sister is ecstatic at having another sibling." Marquise replied. 

"Thank you both for your time. Do enjoy the ball." Giacomo said to them. 

Both smiled and waved at the members of the press before making their way into the palace. 

"Well that was fun," Shanelle said to her husband. 

"It always is a fun time to show you off, my love. Now let's go steal the show from the idiots." 

The couple was led to the doors of the grand ballroom for their entrance. 

"Introducing His Majesty King Marquise Rys and Her Majesty Queen Shanelle Miller-Rys!" the herald announced as the doors opened. Their entrance grabbed everyone's attention. 

When they got to the center of the grand ballroom, they were greeted in the receiving line by Lord and Lady Gallagher as well as their parents. Prince Dante Laurent and Duchess Josephine Grimes-Laurent and Duke Allastair Joseph and Duchess Daphne Ballenger-Joseph. 

"Your Majesties. It is good to see you both. Our son wasn't sure you'd be joining us this evening." Duke Joseph said in greeting to them both. 

"Thank you, Your Grace. Your son's challenge aside, I would never miss a good party." Marquise replied. 

"Thank you for joining us, Your Majesties." Lord Gallagher said stiffly. 

His mother cleared her throat. 

"Yes, it is good that you're both here," she said to Marquise. 

Marquise nodded politely then looked over to Lady Makenna's parents. Who bowed and curtsied in his direction. 

"Your Highness. It's good to see you and the former Headmaster again. It's been quite some time since we've seen each other," he said to them.

Prince Dante nodded politely. 

"Indeed it has. You were His Highness the last time my wife and I saw you." he said to Marquise before turning his attention to Shanelle, "Hello Your Majesty. It is good to meet you. And let me congratulate you and His Majesty on your pregnancy."

Shanelle smiled politely. 

"Hello, Your Highness. It's lovely to meet you and Her Grace. Thank you very much for your kind words," she replied. 

Lady Makenna rolled her eyes. 

"You and Mama don't have to be so formal Papa. They won't be royals for very much longer." 

Prince Dante gave his daughter a withering look. 

"Makenna! You will show respect! You are not Queen yet! So until you are, you will represent our family with dignity! Now fix your face!" Prince Dante snapped at his daughter. This caused Shanelle to laugh quietly. 

"Do excuse our daughter's lack of manners Your Majesties. She forgets herself sometimes." Duchess Josephine said to them. 

"It's quite alright. Tell me, Your Grace, how is Elgin?" Marquise asked. 

"He is well. Well as well as he can be." Prince Dante replies. 

"His dialysis treatments are going well, yes?" Marquise asked. 

"Yes, Sire. They are going well. My brother is still stubborn but he's still alive." Prince Dante replies. 

"Papa! That is none of his business!" Makenna fussed. 

Prince Dante gave her daughter another withering look. 

"Thank you, Your Highness. I'm glad His Majesty is doing well. I think it's time that Her Majesty and I should take our seats. Be well, everyone." Marquise announced before walking Shanelle to their seats. 

As they walked away, light bickering could be heard from Lord and Lady Gallagher to their parents. 

"Well, that was awkward," Shanelle said to Marquise. 

"Indeed but it was also informative," he replies. 

"What do you mean?" Shanelle asked as they took their seats. 

"Because Prince Dante lied to me. That's what I mean. He's not supposed to be within miles of the old palace," he replies. 

"Why not?" Shanelle asked. 

"Because Prince Dante is the reason why King Elgin owed a debt to my father in the first place. He had a gambling addiction when he was much younger and stupidly he risked his entire family's fortune on a race during the Royal Regatta one year and suffered a devastating loss to my father. And he seized on the opportunity." Marquise replied. 

"Yikes!"

"And when King Elgin found out about his younger brother's blunder, he had no choice but to pay my father. Because of this Elgin banned his brother from ever stepping foot back in this palace. That's why Makenna was mad at him. Because she knew he would be lying to me. Truth is I doubt he's seen his brother in years. The last time he was here I was maybe 12 at the time. He hasn't been back since to my knowledge."

"So do you think King Elgin knows his brother is here?"

"Hard to say but with the state he's in, I don't think there's much he can do about it." 

"Curiouser and curiouser. Do you think she's playing on her uncle's sympathies?" 

Marquise shrugged.

"She wouldn't be the first noble to do so. And I doubt she'll be the last. That's probably why Dante sent Makenna to court. She was meant to be a peace offering. But I don't know if it worked."

The room quieted down as Lord Gallagher gave his opening remarks. 

"Good Evening everyone! On behalf of my wife Lady Makenna Laurent, I want to welcome you all to our first of many balls here at my wife's family palace. I know some of you are loyal to Their Majesties. And I understand why. I don't blame you for your loyalty to them. I will be honest I didn't think Their Majesties would have had the decency to join us this evening. I am glad to see I was wrong. It is good to have you both here with us tonight. And my wife and I do wish you a warm and sincere congratulations on your new baby-to-be."

Marquise raised an eyebrow and then nodded at him. 

"Now I understand that many of you don't know us. Therefore you're not sure you can trust us. My wife and I understand that. We also understand that we must earn the trust of the noble houses and the people. That is our goal for tonight. And let me just say, we are not challenging for the throne because we want to overthrow the monarchy. While it is hard for me to admit, I will give the current monarchs their credit. They have indeed done things for Cordonia. Many nobles and commoners alike have prospered under their leadership. Her Majesty's overhaul of the healthcare system of our kingdom alone is a feat that should be marveled at and celebrated. Because of that overhaul, many of our people were able to afford the life-saving healthcare they needed. My wife's uncle included. I thank them for that. But I am not blind to their misfortunes either. It was because of them we all were threatened by the Via Imperii."

Shanelle rolled her eyes quietly. 

"And the unfair taxes many of us have had to pay. While yes, I can admit that money goes toward the healthcare system, education system, and emergency services and yes, none of it goes directly to either of them, we are well off now. We don't need to keep paying higher taxes. We don't need to keep doing trade, especially risky trades with hostile nations. And we certainly don't need to involve ourselves in petty squabbles between other nations. As many of you know, Kasnia is at war with Sulovaria and your King wants to involve us in that. That is military resources we don't need to expend. Not to mention he and the Queen spend more time gallivanting across the globe than they do at home."

His Majesty set his jaw. 

"That is the irresponsibility my wife and I are trying to avoid. Unnecessary and costly wars and useless vanity points. We need leaders who have common sense solutions for everyday problems. They don't have common sense solutions. They don't have Cordonia's best interest at heart. But my wife and I do. That is why we are throwing this ball. It is our hope that tonight we will be able to change your minds about us and them. With that, let dinner be served!" 

Servants busied themselves serving the first course of dinner. While they ate, Their Majesties discussed Lord Gallagher's opening statement. 

"Well, what did you think?" Shanelle asked her husband. 

"Not as bad as I expected. I knew they would take shots at us, but they played well to the crowd by keeping them at a minimum." Marquise replied. 

"This is gonna be a long night isn't it?" 

"Unfortunately but we're here and you are still pregnant. Which is something they didn't account for. We can still use that to our advantage."

"I love it when you get all political strategist."

"It's literally my job."

The main course, which was venison medallions in a wild boar ragu with chanterelle mushrooms and roasted Brussels sprouts, turned Shanelle's stomach. 

"Are you alright?" Marquise asked. 

"I don't think I can eat any of this. The smell of the mushrooms is making me queasy." Shanelle replied. 

"Hmmm...let's see if one of my favorite of King Elgin's staff is working tonight."

Marquise was able to flag down one of the staff. 

"Your Majesty! It is so good to see you again! I haven't seen you in ages!" the staff member said to him. 

"Thank you, Tarlov. It's good to see you as well. Listen I don't mean to be a bother, but could I get something else for Her Majesty to eat? With her being pregnant, her senses are sensitive, and the mushrooms of the entree are making her feel sick. Perhaps you could indulge me just this once and have something lighter prepared for her." 

"Oh dear! Of course sire. Right away!"

"Thank you again, Tarlov. Give Winnie my regards."

Tarlov nodded before taking Shanelle's plate away to the kitchen. 

"Ugh! Thank you. Another second and I would've ruined the china." Shanelle said with a groan. 

He rubbed the knuckles of her right hand. 

"You're welcome. I'm surprised Tarlov is still here after all these years."

"You two greeted each other like you knew each other."

"Tarlov has worked in the palace for years. He's one of the last bit of loyal staff that Elgin has left." 

With a new entree delivered Shanelle was able to eat. After dessert was served it was time for dancing. Lord Gallagher took to the middle of the dance floor. 

"After what I said earlier this evening, this may seem surprising but if Her Majesty would be so kind as to join me for the first dance?" he asked the gathered crowd, "I promise you, Your Majesty, I mean no harm."

With all eyes on her, Shanelle took a deep breath, squared her shoulders, and walked onto the dance floor. 

"Thank you. And I mean what I said, no tricks. Just a dance." Lord Gallagher said to Shanelle as he offered his hand. 

"One dance. That's all you get," she said to him as the music started to play. As they began to dance Lord Gallagher regarded Shanelle with an appraising eye. 

"I saw you had your entree switched. Was the food not to your liking?" he asked. 

"No. The mushrooms made me queasy and rather than have me ruin King Elgin's fine china, His Majesty asked if a different entree could be prepared." Shanelle replies. 

"Well you'll have to forgive me. When we planned this menu we had no idea you'd be pregnant by the time we threw our ball. Also, you could've asked me. I would've happily had another dish prepared for you." 

"No thank you. I'd rather not eat rat poisoning."

Lord Gallagher rolled his eyes. 

"Despite what you may think—", he began to say before she cut him off, "save it. I'm just here to dance. Not have a conversation."

"I am trying to be polite," he said through clenched teeth. 

That's when Shanelle accidentally stepped on his right foot on purpose. 

"Why you!" he hissed. 

"Oh, I'm so sorry, my Lord. How very clumsy of me!" 

As they danced, Lady Makenna took the time to sidle up to Marquise. 

"That was quite a speech your husband gave Kenna. It was almost convincing albeit a tad bit boring."

Lady Makenna let out an exasperated sigh and then cleared her throat. 

"As much as I don't want to do this, Your Majesty would do me the honor of dancing with me?" she asked.

"No," he replied. 

"No?" she asked. 

"You heard me the first time. But for the sake of appearances and because I want to get my wife as far away from your husband as possible," Marquise said as he adjusted his cuff before offering his hand, "shall we?" 

Lady Makenna huffed before taking his hand and going out on the dance floor. They danced until it was time to switch partners. Shanelle couldn't get away from Lord Gallagher fast enough 

"My knight in shining armor!" Shanelle said to her husband. 

"That bad?" he asked. 

"Let's just say there are only so many times I can accidentally step on his toes on purpose." 

Marquise chuckled. 

After an hour of dancing and mingling with others, it was time for Lord and Lady Gallagher's closing remarks. 

"Here we go," Marquise said to Shanelle. 

"Can we just get this over with?" Shanelle replied. 

"Once again, my wife and I would like to thank all of you for joining us tonight. It is our sincerest hope that we were at least able to change some of your minds. Now—" Just as Lord Gallagher was giving his speech there was a loud pop. 

"What was that?" Shanelle to Marquise. 

Her question was followed by another larger explosion that rocked the room and knocked the giant chandelier off its chain sending it crashing to the ground. Marquise pulled Shanelle out of the way of the falling chandelier just in time.

"Guards! Guards!" Marquise called out to his guards. 

"Fire! Fire! Everyone out!" a staff member ran in yelling. 

"Your Majesties! This way!" one of his guards called out. 

"Guards! Get everyone out of here now!" Marquise ordered as he and Shanelle ran out of the ballroom. Without looking back the royals ran outside. When they got outside they watched as smoke billowed out followed by shooting flames. 

"Oh my God!" Shanelle gasped. 

A guard came running up. 

"Your Majesties! Are you alright?" the guard asked. 

"Yes. Her Majesty and I are fine. Gather as many guards as you can and get as many people out as fast as you can. And get emergency services out here to get those flames back!" Marquise ordered. 

"Oh my God! Oh my God!" Shanelle whispered in shock. 

Marquise took his jacket off and wrapped it around his wife. 

"Are you okay?" he asked. 

"I'm fine. I just..." she replied clearly shaken up. 

"I know. But you're okay. We're okay." he said as he held her close to keep her calm, "we're safe. I promise we're safe."

"Back! Back! Everyone back!" a guard instructed the gathered crowd. 

Everyone got as far back as possible. Many watched in horror as the old palace burned. Once emergency services arrived Marquise decided it was time to leave. 

"Come on. Let's get you home," he said to Shanelle. 

He led her to a waiting car. As he got in, a dark figure watched from the trees. As they drove away, the flames from the burning palace lit up the sky. When they returned to the palace, they were greeted by Margo and her parents. 

"Oh my God! Are you two okay?" Shantel asked, "We saw the news."  

They both nodded.

"What happened?" Damien asked. 

Shanelle nodded numbly as Marquise spoke. 

"There was an explosion while we were inside. And when we got outside there was heavy smoke and flames."

"Oh my goodness! The staff!" Margo said. 

"Do you think there will be any casualties?" Damien asked Marquise. 

"It's too early to tell. But when I hear something I'll be sure to let you know." 

Damien nodded before turning to Shanelle who was shaking. 

"You're shaking my darling. Maybe you should get to bed."

Shanelle nodded. 

"We'll take her." Shantel said to her husband, "Come on sweetie. Let's get you down the hall."

Margo helped Shanelle up. 

"Come, Your Majesty, gently now. That's it. Nice and slow." 

Marquise and Damien watched as they walked down the hall. When they were out of earshot Damien spoke. 

"Are you alright son?" Damien asked. 

"I'm alright. It's just been quite the night." Marquise replied. 

"I'm sure. I won't keep you long, go check on her and have a restful night."

"Goodnight Damien. You do the same." Marquise said to him before turning to walk down the hall to his bedroom. When he got inside Shanelle was sitting on their bed with her mother and Margo. 

"Thank you ladies. I'll take it from here."

Both mothers nodded before leaving. Marquise sat down next to his wife and wrapped his arms around her. 

"Are you alright?" he asked. 

Shanelle took a deep breath. 

"I'll be alright. I'm just in shock. That's all."

"I'm sure. Thankfully we got out of there safely. And hopefully, I'll know more in the morning."

Shanelle nodded. 

"In the meantime, I've had enough excitement for one day. I'm going to bed."

"Good. Let's get some rest." 

The next day, Shanelle stayed with their children, while Marquise was in his office on the phone with the authorities. He had just got off a call when Shanelle came to check on him with food. 

"Hey, you," she said to him. 

"Hey, beautiful," he replied. 

"You look like you haven't eaten yet." she said to him, "So what have you heard so far?"

Marquise sighed deeply. 

"Unfortunately the old palace has burned down," he replied. 

"What?!"

"It's a total loss. Nothing could be saved."

"Oh my God."

Marquise shook his head before taking a bite of his food. 

"It's such a shame. I really did enjoy that old palace."

Shanelle raised a questioning eyebrow at him. 

"What's that supposed to mean?" she asked. 

"Whatever you decide it to mean," he replied. 

Shanelle crossed her arms and gave her husband a challenging look. 

"Marquise."

"Hmm?"

"Did you order that explosion?"

Marquise shrugged. 

"Are you insane?! You could've killed someone! And what about King Elgin?" 

"King Elgin wasn't even there last night."

"What do you mean?" Shanelle asked. 

"While we were all in the ballroom, he was being safely evacuated. By the time the blast happened, he was on his way to his summer home on Lake Gianko," Marquise replies. 

Shanelle shook her head. 

"And what about Naya and her daughter Bernadette?"

"They are already at her father's summer house. I had them moved last week then I had His former Majesty moved. So it wouldn't look too suspicious." 

"Well, that explains why he wasn't at the Welcome Ball."

Shanelle sighed. 

"This is about to be a PR nightmare," she said with a groan. 

"Agreed. But it's a PR nightmare we don't have to deal with."

"Tell me something."

"Anything."

"How did you do it?" she asked him, "And don't you dare lie to me."

Marquise looked at her coolly before snapping his fingers. Soon an opening in his bookcase opened and one of his guards stepped in. He was dressed in black and silver. He was one of Marquise's Crown Shields. The guard knelt down on one knee with a fist over his heart. 

"My Queen." the guard said to her with his head still bowed, "My Liege."

"My love. You remember the Crowd Shields don't you?" Marquise asked. 

"Mmmhmm. You only employ them in emergency situations or at least that's what you're supposed to do." Shanelle replied. 

"True indeed. But since you wanted to know, now you know. This is Captain Desmond Emilo Felix. He's the current Head of the Crown Shield." Marquise explained. 

Shanelle nodded then looked at Captain Felix.

"It's good to finally meet you, Captain," Shanelle said to the Captain. 

Captain Felix rose to his feet and executed a perfect bow. 

"You as well, my Queen. I'm glad we could finally meet."

"Captain Felix is how I was able to pull off the explosion. You see, Captain Felix is a former member of the US Military." 

Shanelle nodded before looking at Captain Felix. 

"You're American?" she asked. 

"Yes ma'am. I'm as red-blooded as you are. I'm originally from Kansas City. My parents still live there. I served for 6 years in the US Navy as a SEAL before transferring to the Cordonian Army where I rose through the ranks. And was selected by Captain Nevrakis to lead in her stead when she retired." Captain Felix replied. 

"And now you're my husband's official unofficial right hand?" she asked. 

"Yes ma'am. I am at his beck and call and yours if and when need be," he replied. 

"He is the one who started the blast while we were in the grand ballroom," Marquise explained. 

"How?" Shanelle asked. 

Captain Felix cleared his throat. 

"It's quite simple. The Crown Shield has schematics of every noble house and palace. Including this one and the former palace of South Cordonia. It was just a matter of overloading the circuitry and turning on the gas. And making it look like a mere accidental gas leak." Captain Felix replies. 

"The goal was to scare and distract people. And I'd say we succeeded."

Shanelle sighed deeply then nodded. 

"Well, I guess I'll take your word for it." she said before turning to walk out of Marquise's office, "oh! And one more thing, touch my palace and I'll kill you both."

"Understood," Marquise said to her. 

The next day, after getting their daughter off to school and leaving their sons with her mother, Their Majesties returned to the old palace in Dalevandon to inspect the damage. When they arrived at the old palace, the devastation was clear. Where the former palace of West Cordonia once stood, there was now nothing but ashes. 

"I know your plan was to scare and distract people. But I think your plan worked a little too well." Shanelle whispered to her husband as they took in the damage.  

"Perhaps. But as long as the goal was attained, I'm satisfied," he replied. 

They were led to a podium where members of the press were waiting. Marquise held up a hand to quiet the murmuring crowd.

"Good morning everyone. Today is a sad day for us all. The Great Palace Of West Cordonia has been lost to a terrible accident. This is a heavy and personal loss for many. Myself included. But I want the people to rest assured that no one else will suffer. Thankfully there were no human causalities. Everyone from the guests to the staff to His former Majesty were all safely evacuated. The damage is being assessed and for those on staff who are now out of work, you will be compensated for your loss of work, your health insurance will continue, and resources to find other work via the Monarchy will be provided to you at no cost."

The reporters all clamored at once. 

"Your Majesty! Donnie Brine of the CBC here. It has been reported that the explosion was due to a gas leak. Can you confirm that?" Donnie asked Marquise. 

"Yes, I can. Preliminary reports suggest that the blast was due to a gas leak. While the investigation into the blast is still ongoing, the early reports confirm that a gas leak is the cause of the blast." Marquise replied. 

"Or maybe it wasn't an accident at all!"

The crowd turned to see Lady Makenna marching up to the podium with her parents. When she got to the podium she got in His Majesty's face. 

"You did this! You set the fire that burned down my family's home!" she accused. 

"Be careful with how you speak to me, my lady," he warned her. 

"I am not afraid of either of you! This is what my husband and I are talking about! You're so afraid of losing your throne, that you will destroy any and everything to keep it!" she yelled at him. 

Shanelle looked at her. 

"And just what are you and your husband doing to assist in this tragedy?" Shanelle asked Lady Makenna, "Other than accusing His Majesty of causing the fire that is."

Lady Makenna glared at Shanelle. 

"Because for the last 48 hours, the only people who have remotely done anything to assist in any way outside of the locals, are His Majesty and myself. What have you contributed hmm? While assisting those in need should never be a competition, I will not stand here and listen to you accuse your King of any wrongdoing."

As the press whispered fiercely, Marquise held up a hand to silence them. 

"She's right, my lady. Because challenge or not I am STILL your King! And you both are still subject to my rule! But since you're here now, why don't you tell us all what plans you and Lord Gallagher have for the people in the wake of this tragedy hmm." Marquise said to her as he gestured to the podium, "Go ahead, my lady. This is your chance to one-up us." 

Lady Makenna backed down. 

"Oh, so you don't have a plan? That's not surprising. Perhaps your father can come up with one. Oh! Wait! That's right I forgot. He isn't supposed to be anywhere near the palace. After all, the reason why your uncle owed a debt to my father was because of him and his gambling and that foolhardy bet where he risked your entire family's fortune." Marquise said to her, "See, I knew he was lying to me this past Saturday night when he told me King Elgin was doing well. When the truth is, he nor your mother or your siblings have seen King Elgin in years. So why would you host a ball in a palace your father was banished from? It is quite a curious thing." 

That sent the press into a frenzy. With many trying to get Lady Makenna's attention. With the media distracted, Their Majesties stepped off the podium. They finished their tour of the remains before departing for home. When they got to the palace, they headed to the throne room where they were greeted by Captain Felix and a few members of the Crown Shield. 

"Your Majesties. There's something you need to see."

The couple looked at each other.

"What do you mean Captain?" Marquise asked as a side door opened. 

"He means me..." a voice spoke up. 

The couple froze and when they turned around. Shanelle gasped and Marquise was beside himself. 

"Hello, Your Majesties. It is good to see you both again."

It was Lord Tariq Sauvageon. Alive and well. 

But how when he's been dead for years?

[yutasbimil]

Antimony

vyn x fem!oc | tears of themis ff. (psychology major!lead) ✦ (7/8) [series fic] !!! also posted on my ao3 acc! { here } tags: angst, hurt/comfort cw: heavy on (self) angst; suicidal ideation; graphic and morbid descriptions on said thoughts, negative self-talk, skewed self-perception, mentions of attempts, self-harm. triggering topic on neglect and invalidation of family/relatives. + fudge, I HATE typing this down and reading it to edit, it just crawls into my skin THIS IS THE WORST + supposedly this is a 'x reader' fic but got too heavy eventually, I apologize truly ;; word count: 3.2k

part 1 | part 2 | part 3 | part 4 | part 5 | part 6 | part 8

do not repost © yutasbimil (2024)

Her existence persists to be a contradiction. Her daily pursuits are deliberating from making up her mind on things… as everything had been pointed out too much with being smothered and neglected by her family. Who knew that such a dynamic is possible to be of existence? 

But it would also be a miracle if they just started thinking straight and be normal for once.

From happiness and despair, does she truly care that her pessimism gets in the way of enjoying the art of stoicism? Or is she just truly numbed and disappointed to even care?

‘This is crazy talk from the meds…’

Yule clenched her jaw subconsciously.

‘I hate myself for falling into a slope and fucking relapsing—’

“You okay, my love?” Vyn asks, he is not quite sure of the volume he had observed her. He’s surer about the weeks it has occurred. Vyn is most sure that the lavender essence of the tea and atmosphere doesn’t amount to any help to the lady across from him.

Yule tiredly replies, nodding weakly before lowering her head as droopy as her eyes. The fatigue is catching up with her, along with being numbed along with the medication. She’s still quite adjusting.

But today shows a darker shade in her façade.

Exhaustion reeks in her aura.

“Obviously not, Vyn…” her grumpiness slipped along with her groan. The migraines from jaw clenching aren't adding to her comfortability. 

Vyn had no other choice but to dismiss her snarky attitude.

“You do know I won't go anywhere even if you act that way towards me, right?” Vyn looks towards her sharp glares, she just huffs. He had noticed such patterns of irritability with her, and her means to sabotage anything when she's insecure. “I'll just be here, and just so you know, being harsh and cold towards me hurts, Yule. But let me remind you that I've handled worse so I won't be unfazed.”

“Ha, so you do admit I'm at par, worse?” she rolls her eyes, clicking her tongue. “I doubt that you'll manage, just admit I'm a jerk one can’t handle.”

Vyn’s brow twitched slightly at her sudden shift, he managed to simply purse his lips in a thin line.

“I didn't say anything of the like, Yule. Acting harshly can hurt others, even words can be sharp, does it not?”

“Whatever, just leave then.” Yule doesn't even bat another eye, her tone gradually turning childish. “I'm being pathetic and making a scene right now for the sake of it. I’m that destructive, a ticking bomb. It's obvious to you since you're so smart with your two degrees.”

So, she does know she just wants to fight ‘just because’? Good thing I won't retaliate. With his usual finesse, Vyn stayed nonchalant.

I'll take that as a compliment for her remembering and including it in her snarky remark.

It was clear she was not in a rational state.

Technically, they’re currently in a foreign place for her so it would be ridiculous to just leave her here. It’s silly enough she’s proposing to be left when Yule herself admitted she’s “directionally challenged”.

At least she retained her wittiness.

“Giving you the ‘Time Off’ you advised me when you're not in the mood, but I will just be here. I refuse to leave you.” he declared, still at a halt to wait for her next move.

“Why? I’m not even worth keeping, I’m a piece of shi—”

“Triggers, Yule.” Vyn prompts. “Self-degradation; I’m not tolerating any of it. We’ve talked about this.”

“Even you refuse to believe in facts,” she mutters under her breath. Yule attempts to storm off, but Vyn silently just follows.

This was her warning beforehand, it's as if you're facing another person whenever she pushes people away. If anything, her attitude amplified since she had gone back from visiting her family…

Vyn realized this soon enough as she just shut him off and looked further somber. She had been quiet even before coming back to their rented villa. 

Yule just huffs, obviously having difficulty regulating her emotions at the moment. 

Vyn stayed idle. He just suppressed a sigh as he placed down a glass of cold water for Yule. He knows nothing but to show any discomfort to her, most especially her vulnerable moments when she might take the slightest actions and gestures the wrong way.

As to why it ticks Vyn personally how she’s still viewed as not a concern. It’s obviously debilitating her work performance; it’s hindering her work function. Any other areas of her life including her sleep, appetite, and even social aspects.

It’s infuriating all the more that her evident symptoms and warning signs of help are dismissed as merely “physical sickness” by her family. Isn’t stress one of the leading causes of diseases and common knowledge these days?

“I’m angry— not at you, b-but I am lashing out. I’ll- tell later. Maybe, fuck, I don’t care! No one cares!” she burst out, immediately ripping her look off him as she walked out of the living room into the bedroom.

He just blinked, slightly distraught as poker-faced his expression now.

Vyn dragged the chair and sat down, subconsciously observing the condescending droplets form at the glass of water she left. He puts his hands on his face, his fingers stroking his chin in thought. He furrowed his brows at how unexpected the turn of things was for them just now.

Though, he already put the first piece that bridged this disaster from cascading; the verdict of it all.

Yule told Vyn of her last encounter with her family and relatives before their trip.

Last week…

“What if you get physical therapy instead?”

Even till the end, you’re not believing in me huh?

Yule held her tongue and no longer had any care to even bother rebutting. If only they were the ones who would tend the medical bills for her, but no.

The tone of Yule’s mother implied it’s much cheaper, that her symptoms are most likely only physical exhaustion, and that her fatigue is just lack of sleep. She doesn’t take any care of herself for being irresponsible and an immature person, still. Or at least that’s what her mother always says.

But when it comes to my sister, it’s a different story with finances huh? Suddenly the “budget” is non-existent; they’re all in.

She had to compensate for the fees for her therapy session with her own money…

Well, yeah. She had the money now, but what happened to "supporting her till the end"?

It opposes everything they told her.

She just heaved in a sigh, and everything felt heavier on the next happenstance.

The conversation felt a bit of a blur, more on her not bothering to even respond to her being hurt, and just agreed. The frustration, infuriation, and resentment only build up more as her boundaries are trampled over.

If it means I can get a proper assessment, I guess.

The price to pay along with the therapy. Such irony.

“It just gets dragged longer than I want it to, just further emphasizing the usual flow; I’m not the priority, a burden? Ah- it’s just more on being dismissive that: “It’s not that that you’re feeling.” It’s swept under the rug how obvious—goshdamn, the obvious signs of mental distress to my parents, Vyn! But they choose to ignore the possible mental illness.”

The way that Vyn has his vision on her as if he’s correlating the tangled coherence of her explanation, and he’s patient with ears swung wide open. Yule keeps pacing around the room to at least get her mind off the jitters, she lets her mouth agape to avoid drawing out blood from biting her lips.

“It’s like I’m just lying there bleeding, and they’re choosing to turn a blind eye.”

Yule is reminded to breathe, shakingly while easing her stiff shoulders. She felt her muscles firm up while slouching. It’s as if there’s a hanger placed on her clothes.

“Yes, it can be alleviated by massage, and physically, some ache in my body can be healed, through proper treatment, cure, and shit— but the debate just stood there with the elephant in the room, that it’s quite the opposite that my mental strain and fatigue is more on causing me physical symptoms. Manifesting physically instead…”

“Psychosomatic symptoms*, hmm?”

“Y-yeah, exactly! But of course, it just ends up that I brought the proper weapons in a fight, but it’s never to be acknowledged in the first place. As if you’re telling the doctor that they don’t need bandages on obvious bleeding wounds.”

She had known for the longest time of this feeling since high school. 

It felt like she was walking on lead, underwater and had been drowning for years. She’s raising her arms, for flags but it just gets thrown off as nothing. Go with the flow by all means.

But she needed to keep in mind how to slow down, her anchor already reached its point. Yule needs to learn how to rest and not exert herself when she’s already done more than enough.

‘I’m just pushed to my limit, even if I did well in school up to this point of taking exams for additional credentials— I just want to hide everything away when I know that it will just be brushed off at the end of the day.’

It even leaves Vyn’s gaze at her to waver, the flicker of his eyes dimmed for a slight millisecond at the shakiness of her voice.

Yule bitterly snickers, shaking her head weakly with a huff. “I just got my result that I passed, and I now have a name extension, yet everything I get still seems the least believable to them. Vyn, I’m gonna go insane, I tell you!”

This adds salt to the wound, it stings how her eyes feel dry at this point. This is not at all helpful to the abundance of cortisol levels in her system, as her psychologist pointed out. This condition of Psychosomatic Disorder in line with Generalized Anxiety Disorder**?

What a perfect combo indeed.

Adding the cherry on top of this disastrous combo is the crippling depression she has.

Though of course, this isn’t something ‘serious’ to look into, right?

Having to hear all of this and Vyn analyzing it, the brows on his forehead creased in dismay. Much to Yule overanalyzing everything, too.

Even now, it keeps replaying back in her head. It struck her with fear, and disgust to see how he might be having a hard time with her negativity.

Yule feels guilty, especially about how she’s been dragging him along the emotional rollercoaster. Either it’s with the fluctuation of hormones due to her monthly cycles and the effects of the medicine. Even how she even lashed out numerous times, so stupid! ‘Vyn is tired of me— wait, correction, because of me.’

It’s vastly different from one’s emotional toll when it comes to handling someone close and dear to you.

Yet he remains patient and kind to her unkindness.

Damn, so now that I’m also clinically diagnosed with chronic Depression, why do I still feel guilty even having to be in a loving relationship? I should be happy, right?

This constant weight of sadness and dreading emptiness is pulling her down, and by the slump of her shoulders, Vyn can thoroughly read the deepening of her thoughts.

Tackle the struggles of being in a relationship, the constant sadness, feeling like a burden for having the condition, and perceived helplessness***.

I don't want to drag him along with me. That's the least of what I want to happen.

‘Yet here I am again, hurting him in the process.’

The last time served as the last fucking time. She really had enough of the feeling of never ever being enough for them.

Because the last time she visited, all the time she spent with them led to her being invalidated every step of the conversation. As if it’s meant as a shitfest for Yule.

And she only brought up her anxiety.

Fuck, she’s glad no mentions of her depression slipped off her lips. What more if she brought up her Borderline Disorder? She is already clinically diagnosed at this point, ha, and yet…

Like a wasted game of ping-pong, her ears rang at how insensitive and obnoxious they sounded around the restaurant table. Just throwing words mindlessly or carelessly as if it doesn’t bear any weight. Everyone sounds like a hypocrite, all-talk about family and love.

Bullshit.

Yule is quite very much aware of the generation gap, and she wanted to educate them at first especially now that she has finished her studies. She had freed up her time for the sake of this lunch out.

Yule wanted to give the benefit of the doubt, still, and redirect her expectations that it will at least be better this time around—just this one damn time—now that months have passed.

Alas, it isn’t.

Yule just pointed out how taking it shallowly and using terms like “depressed” or “OC” can do more harm than good to those who are actually experiencing it. It further strays people from taking mental conditions seriously now that it’s at now all-time high to be aware of it.

Instead, a hand just blocked her vision and laughter deafened her in ridicule. I am just exaggerating it, they’re simply just “an expression” and just saying it as its usage. Like huh?

Yes! And that’s what’s wrong. 

Being “mature” wasn’t prioritized in her head as it flipped a switch in her, and it’s a dangerous one. Part of her feelings are hurt, personally triggering her as they mention more words that further devalue it.

Yule has the said condition. So it goes to show that it just means nothing, huh?

But damn, when it comes to my sister as she’s in the spectrum****, it’s more real and needs help.

She shouldn’t compare and the presence of another does not devalue her experience and condition… Yule has progressed so much these past months being away but in just a day, she sees every hope she has crumbling away. What am I even made for? What is my purpose here in this world?

Ha. Man, maybe if I fucking die and jump off a cliff. It’s still not real for them either way, right?

I always feel like glass when I’m with them.

Again, Yule reverts to her 14-year-old self of being silenced, no words want to come out of her. Dissociating, she just autopilots out of her own will.

Instead of exploding, right?

Thank God she didn’t as she will have to land a grenade on their faces on how ridiculous and insensitive they all are. And it all will just go back to me, as I am the bad guy here. It will be my fault for being insensitive for ruining their afternoon for even daring to speak up.

It’s just so extreme that it turned out this way already, what more if Yule told them of her actual condition, so it will be all for naught?

Does it need to be life-threatening?

Well, even when her allergies broke out intensely, there was no urgency at all from them. Maybe they’re thinking I’m just acting it all out for attention… Worse, she’s dismissed as no biggie when it’s clear that she’s not breathing properly.

With anxiety, so it’s not at all considered as a serious condition getting panic attacks out of nowhere to be called “real”?

Are we going back to Philosophy class to regard what is concrete and real compared to what is intangible?

Very bullshit.

That if I don’t need attention or that anxiety is just “shallow”, it will not appear as if I need help. So, it’s just superficial?

Then they’re the ones who have the guts to invalidate me after putting me through the Psychology field, and then I am not allowed to point out their blabbering? Just when I graduated and got my degree, I am still not reliable? Is it because I am not a practitioner or a doctor? Ha. It’s maddening how they’ll make you stupid.

And yet, they expect me? To finish my master's degree and fucking pass the boards after treating me so ridiculously and not worth it in the subject field?

WTF?

I've been feeling like this since I was 19 in university when they don't believe a thing that I point out because I ain't no doctor!

Yet up until now?

Yule could only sneer at such a rut she has in this ratchet household.

Heck, I will pass the boards, and run through her Master's with ease, but I feel that it is still not enough to be seen.

Beyond sated from food, she can no longer palate anything from her dissatisfying wreck of thoughts. I want to vomit. Nauseous, she stared into nothing once again.

I need to exaggerate the details and severity of the situation, yet it's still dismissed. That her anxiety also needs medication and shit.

Yule feels like a kid begging to be seen and wants attention. She needs to go beyond and bend over backward for facts and her reasons to be heard.

But they just don’t choose to use their damned ears for listening. To her in particular.

Am I just gonna die and it's still not believed in?

With Vyn I still have the tendency to be a compulsive liar in order to be believed in, but I keep forgetting to get it off my system that it is not the same case with him. I need a system reset to be at peace. I want to be my genuine self with him.

I really am trying.

Her far-off stares didn’t leave her glassed orbs as Vyn held her hand tightly by the plateau. She asked if they could get some fresh air earlier. By the looks of it, she had finally calmed down compared to her episode earlier. 

But it still feels heartsinking when she's silent and preoccupied. Vyn squeezed it a few more times before Yule finally responded with a weak smile. But she still goes on and off as she dissociates.

How could I have lost an “okay” Yule in just a few days' time?

Of course, not that he doesn’t like her being like this, but who does want to see a person this way? It pains to see someone you love in so much pain and feeling broken apart. And handled carelessly by people you expect of thick blood.

It tampers a scab on Vyn’s part as well, being let down by your own family who is supposed to serve as a safety net to your existence.

Vyn intertwined his fingers with hers to at least ground her further, she flinched a little. Yule had been silent the most since the start of their trip, although a bit responsive, the difference to her usual behavior shows a wound to her well-being.

He simply observes, he senses her trying the most as she strokes her fingers at his hands as they are sight-seeing. Vyn hopes the view gets her mind off things momentarily.

※ my masterlist | #enjeiwrites ※

[angie-long-legs-moved]

Rules

Age Restricted

This blog is 18+, absolutely no exceptions! Mun is in their 20s and will not rp with minors. If you are under 18, please do not follow or interact. You will be blocked.

Semi-Selective

At the moment, I am happy to rp/interact with the majority of those who want to write with me! However, I can be choosy if I feel our writing styles don't match or we don't click in the way we portray our muses.

I may drop threads if I lose motivation or I feel as though I'm carrying it. If you're concerned I've dropped our thread and wish to continue it, please just let me know! I may be open to continuing with some additional plotting, or at the very least I will offer an explanation as to why it was dropped.

I don't do exclusives! I love to see writers portray their own take on their muses, so doubles are welcome here.

Hard blocking is reserved for minors and weirdos - I won't hard block you if I no longer want to interact, I will probably just unfollow.

Dark Themes

This is Angel Dust - dark topics and are going to be a common occurance. Please be mindful of your own wellbeing and/or triggers. Sexual violence, physical violence, abuse, trauma, sex work, substance abuse and addiction are all big parts of Angel's story, and while I will do my best to tag things accordingly, if this is likely to trigger you, I would advise not to follow.

Mun =/= Muse

Angel can be a prize dickhead at times. He might not be kind to your muse, even if your muse is kind to him. He has a short temper and zero impulse control, and is prone to flying off the handle. I will most likely ask if I feel like anything I write would cross a line, but I don't see this as ever being more than Angel throwing around hurtful words.

Triggers

I tag obvious triggers such as abuse and violence, but if you need anything more specific tagged, just let me know! I may fuck up from time to time and forget to tag something, in which case just shoot me a message and I'll fix it.

NSFW

NSFW content is fine and to be expected with this muse! However, I won't write smut unless we've been writing together for a while. All NSFW content will be tagged, and anything explicit will be under a cut.

Shipping

Head over heels for Huskerdust, not massively interested in shipping Angel with other characters from the show. However, I ship based on chemistry, so if our muses develop a connection, I'm open to exploring this. I prefer this to be discussed ooc if it starts heading that direction. Open to OC ships, but again, chemistry is key. And, obviously, Angel is gay - I'll be writing him as such. If your muse is female/fem-leaning, sorry, but he ain't into it!

(I also feel the need to stress that while I enjoy exploring the dynamic between Angel and Valentino, please do not misinterpret this as shipping. To be clear, writing interactions between characters who have a toxic and abusive relationship while also acknowledging love, sex and trauma bonding as a realistic part of that relationship does not constitute shipping, to my own definition. I am more than happy to explore the dark themes within their dynamic as long as we are on the same page about this.)

Requires Discussion

I am pretty lax, and will rp a lot without requiring prior discussion. If your muse is becoming violent towards mine, you don't need to worry about asking permission, especially when it is context relevant (eg. a thread between Angel and Valentino). I only ask that the following are discussed beforehand: any form of sexual assault (I will not write anything graphic), discussion of csa, a character causing massive injury to another or a character killing another.

Off Limits

Graphic descriptions of sexual violence; sexual or romantic interactions with a character who is a minor; incest; paraphilias

Format

I have a preference for long-form RP, but I also do IC asks. Multi para is preferred.

Asks

I will answer most asks - just please don't spam my inbox!

Literacy

I don't expect anyone to match my length with replies - this is largely because I have a tendency to go overboard and write more than my partner! I prefer to write multi para because of this, but I'm open to all lengths.

Although I don't expect partners to match my length, I do like them to match my effort. As much as this is a fun and silly hobby, it's time-consuming and laborious, and I very much pour my heart into my writing. I want to write with people who value my contributions as much as I value theirs!

Personally, I am not massively bothered about literacy skill. However, if your language or grammar make it so I struggle to understand your response, I will not be able to write with you.

Activity Status

Currently very active! With my current number of threads, my average reply time is around 3-4 days. But if for some reason I haven't replied, don't panic! I'm a naturally slow writer and a perfectionist, it can take me a while to finish a response, especially if our thread responses are long. And, obviously, I do have a life outside of tumblr. However, if you're worried I've forgotten our thread, just shoot me a message!

OOC

I am more than happy to talk ooc, and welcome yall to message me! Whether it's for plotting reasons, ideas, headcanons, or just to shoot the shit, I love getting to know the people I write with!

[xxlady-lunaxx]

I'll protect you! | ShinoMitsu

Theme: Fluff

(Side note: they're already dating 😀) 

"SHINOBU-SAN!!" Mitsuri squealed, running over to the Insect Hashira. She tackled her with a hug then straightened up and said, "Can we eat lunch together today? We haven't been able to hang out much." She pouted.

Shinobu laughed. "Sure, why not? Where?"

"Can we do it in the garden at your house? It's always so pretty~!" Mitsuri said enthusiastically.

"Yeah, okay! Me and Kanao just planted a new patch of flowers in the corner! You know the side that had been empty, still?" Shinobu replied happily.

"Mhm! I can't wait to see them, you and Kanao are so good at making them bloom beautifully!" the taller one commented, taking Shinobu's hand. "Do you want to eat now or wait till noon?" she asked, smiling. 

"What about noon? We can walk around a little first?"

"Yess." Mitsuri nodded quickly.

"Alright!"

The two walked hand in hand, stealing occasional kisses when nobody was there. They talked the whole way, or, mostly Mitsuri talked, and they took their time to get to Shinobu's house, taking the longer ways. By the time they got there, the sun was above their heads and the two went inside to cool down a little. 

"Hi, Aoi!" Mitsuri said, running over to the butterfly girl. "I haven't seen you in a little!"

"Yes, hello," Aoi nodded, give her a slight bow. "Welcome home, Shinobu-San!" She turned to the other Hashira. "Would you like me to make you two lunch?"

"No, it's okay, I have mine!" Mitsuri said. 

Shinobu shook her head. "I can take some of the leftovers, it's okay. But thank you, Aoi!"

"No, no, it won't take too long, I promise! I'll make you some-" Aoi started. Shinobu cut her off. "We don't want to over-work you, so it's okay. Alright?"

"But-"

"No, it's okay. You go rest. Is Kanao here?" 

"Yes, she's over in the training room. Why?" Aoi asked, giving up.

"Why don't you go watch her? Bring her and yourself a cup of tea, or something, and tell her to rest. You two are still growing, after all. You need rest just as much as you need everything else!" Shinobu advised.

Mitsuri giggled. "Are you still growing, Shinobu-Chan?" She patted the shorter one's head. "Or are you going to stay tiny forever?"

Shinobu rolled her eyes and pushed Mitsuri away playfully. "Shush, I will grow more!! And besides, it's not all about height.."

"Sure, okay," Mitsuri laughed, taking her hand. "Bye, Aoi! See you later!" she called out, as she ran towards the backyard, dragging Shinobu with her.

"Bye-" Aoi said, watching the two. They were cute with each other. Shinobu always seemed actually happy around Mitsuri.

The two Hashira wandered out into the backyard and sat down under the shade. They took their time to settle down, and Mitsuri pointed out the new flowers Shinobu had mentioned earlier. 

"They're so pretty! What kinds are they?" she asked, inspecting the flowers closely.

"There's a wide variety of them, actually. But since we planted the ones with similar colors and shapes, they look to be the same kinds!" Shinobu said, smiling. She explained which were which and how to identify them, and Mitsuri listened closely. She was surprised at how much Shinobu knew about all this. Of course, she knew that the Insect Hashira would know a lot about plants, due to her using poison to kill demons, but this was a lot and she was very impressed.

"That's awesome," Mitsuri said, after Shinobu had finished explaining. "I wish I knew this much about something! It would be so nice to teach somebody." 

Shinobu smiled. "Yes, It is. But you already know a lot about several things, which is great as well! Exceeding in one subject but not the rest won't help you all that much, but if you do good in all that will help you very much! It's nice to have a specialty, but it's not all about that."

"Mhm! You're so smart, Shinobu-San." 

"Thank you."

The two took out the food they had brought and sat back down on the bench, eating quietly. Eventually Mitsuri said, "Shinobu? Can I tell you something?"

"Of course. Anything."

"You know.. how our kind of.. our kind of relationship isn't quite supported here yet?" Mitsuri asked nervously. 

"Yes..?" Shinobu said, putting down her food. "Has.. has anybody hurt you because of it?"

"No no- Well.. yes, but it's oka-" 

Shinobu pressed a finger to Mitsuri's lips and shook her head. "It's not okay. Tell me who did it."

"It was.. well.. one of the Kakushi. I was telling Rengoku-San about us because he asked, and a Kakushi was there as well. I had been getting Rengoku-San to get checked up and the Kakushi were cleaning up around there. So, one of them overheard me and told me I was bewitched and crazy. I said I wasn't, and Rengoku-San also defended me. But the Kakushi kept going on and somehow, I don't remember, and don't want to, he ended up trying to punch me. He never actually landed a hit but still.." Mitsuri explained.

Shinobu glared at the ground as she listened, and when the story ended she didn't look up for another minute before she sighed. "Oh, Mitsuri.. when did this happen?" she asked.

"Two days ago. But that wasn't the only time people have been like that.." Mitsuri mumbled.

"..oh. Who. I need names and addresses. Oh, and what they did or said, how they did, for how long, if there were any witnesses, if yes then who, and-" Shinobu rambled on. 

"Shinobu-San, it's okay. Has anybody done this to you?" Mitsuri asked, cutting her off.

"It's not okay!! And no, interestingly." 

"Probably because they're intimidated by you!" Mitsuri giggled, hugging her girlfriend.

"And you were just calling me short!" Shinobu rolled her eyes, but she smiled all the same.

"Yeah well.. you can be short, intimidating, and pretty all at the same time!!" Mitsuri insisted, patting Shinobu's head.

"Stop calling me shor- Hey, did you just say I'm pretty?" the ravenette asked, grinning. 

"Oh- Uh- Uh.. yes.." Mitsuri stuttered, flushing. "I meant, uhm.. cute! You're cute! No- I meant, I meant you're beautiful. No.. wait.. I meant uhm.. nevemind.." 

Shinobu laughed. "Sure, okay. Thank you! You're stunning always, though. Everywhere and anywhere," she said, kissing Mitsuri's nose.

"Now, back to topic. Can I have their names?" Shinobu asked, taking out a notepad from nowhere.

"Uhm.. what're you going to do to them?"

"Don't worry! It's not going to kill them," Shinobu reassured her, which only gave the opposite effect. 

"Don't hurt anyone!"

"Don't worry, I'll protect you!"

"Shinobu-San, it's okay, I swear-"

"No, you mustn't let them do this. Now, please state their names?" Shinobu repeated, raising an eyebrow.

Mitsuri laughed and sighed at the same time. "Oh Shinobu-San.. I won't get out of this, hm..? Fine.."

{Word count: 1111}

:3 this was a req from a lovely personn >:D 

honestly i have no idea where this was supposed to be going or where it went so sorry 😃maybe i'll fix it in like 3029 

(i originally posted this on wattpad help)

[caughtredfeathered]

if you've got wings, you should stretch them and fly.

#caughtredfeathered— independent selective criminal keigo takami blog. medium activity. 18+ only. written by puff (she/her 25+).

dark & questionable themes present. please read rules under the cut before following.

bio. memes. multimuse & jason todd blogs.

Rules.

18+ Only. I am over 25, and I will only write with people over 18. If I believe I am speaking with someone below legal age, I will cut off contact immediately.

21+ Shipping. I am so sorry to anyone under 21, but I am more comfortable writing ships / more intimate relationships with those over the age of 21. I’m still happy to write with anyone over 18 in a general manner, but I just don’t want to write that, you know?

No Bigotry. I know BNHA has some HELLA problematic kids, but ooc we do not take any of the phobias. Just leave.

Following. I will probably only follow blogs I see myself having fandoms in common && I will have read your rules. I am happy to write with OCs as well, but I am mainly on tumblr to explore more dynamics in the fandom I love. I will not follow those who are critical of what others are writing in their own spaces. I can respect having boundaries. I do not respect calling people names or hammering down on people for their interest in fictional topics.

Ending Contact / Blocking. The block button is a friend and I advise we all get to know her.

If we are mutuals and you unfollow for any reason other than inactivity please hard block me. I do not mind and I will not dig into it. I mainly do not want to cause discomfort because my forgetful ass follows you again. Moreover, I don’t want to be under the impression we’re still mutuals. I’ve gotten chewed out for it before and I’m way too sensitive for this world.

If I unfollow from inactivity or just no interaction, I'll probably soft block. I just prefer to do so.

If I’ve blocked you and we’ve never interacted? I just don’t see us meshing and/or something in your rules made me decide my blog may not be for you. No one is perfect for everyone.

If I am made to feel uncomfortable for any reason, I will cut off communication and block. The block button is a friend. We love her.

Triggers. This blog can and probably will contain dark, questionable, and possibly problematic themes. I will tag things as appropriately as I can. I will not tag things out of fanon thought (i.e. ‘they’re like brothers’ does not equal incest). All ship art / ship threads will have tags. Block them or block me. Again, I don’t mind. I don’t have many triggers, but will not be writing the following:

Any terminal illness au threads or any thread that has terminal illness romanticized.

Any romance / sexual relationship between a minor and an adult. All my muses partaking in a relationship WILL be 18+, though more likely 21+.

Anything regarding scat or vomit.

On Shipping.

Do not force ships on me. I will not force ships on you. I don’t mean don’t approach me and ask— I mean don’t have your muse automatically talk about having an intimate relationship with mine without discussion. My muse USUALLY need to work up to ships and I most likely will NOT instantly ship unless we’ve discussed it due to an AU plot.

Also— please do not take me talking about a certain ship and/or writing fic or drabble about a certain ship as me trying to pressure you into it! I enjoy EndHawks, DabiHawks, and would probably like many other ships should I be exposed to them!

Length. I’m not a stickler for matching length by any means, but PLEASE give me something to work with, even if it is continued from a meme. I will most likely not reply to one-liners.

Writing Multiples. I am open to playing multiple characters within a thread (NPCs included).

Characterization. My characterization of my character is my own. Do not force your headcanons for my character on me. This blog is canon-divergent.

Literate. My job includes copy editing... so I don't want to write with a mass of errors. I expect my writing partners to be literate-- though of course errors happen and I'm perfectly understanding!

God Modding. Do not godmod. Do not assume things of my characters. Do not try to control the actions of my muses— NPCs I am happy to share 'custody' of. Exceptions are made for small things that help more the story forward.

Drama. I REALLY didn’t think I needed to add this. Do not, under any circumstances, involve me in your drama. Do not take our mutual status as a reason to bring me into your battles. I do not want details, I don’t want information, I will block you. Unless someone is harming REAL MINORS or doxxing people? I do not want to know your beef.

[drvirgus]

The life you dreamed of

(Series)

Description: Y/n a K-pop Idol of the 5-Member Group Moonlight. But what happens when she falls in Love? How exactly is her life as an Idol and why did she become one?

Idol! Yeji X Idol! Reader

Warnings: Mention of Bullying and Suicide, curse words

Chapter 7:

Masterlist

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

On September 18th, JYP Entertainment announced that Lia would be taking a hiatus from her activities due to health issues. Following is the full statement from the label.

"Hello, this is JYPE. We would like to notify you of ITZY member Lia's health conditions and her participation in her future activities. Lia recently consulted doctors after experiencing severe anxiety regarding her activities and was advised during her consultation to rest and receive treatment. After much discussion with members, Lia will not participate in any schedules from now on and will instead direct her efforts to recovery. Lia's return to promotions will be decided after in-depth discussions with members and Lia herself. We sincerely apologize to fans for causing concerns. We will update you as soon as Lia decides to return to promotions. Thank you"

Following the announcement, Lia also left a handwritten letter to her fans regarding her hiatus.

Lia wrote,

"Hello, MIDZY :) I think MIDZY was surprised to hear today's news. Midzy worries more than anyone else even if I get a little sick, so I was worried that you would be heartbroken and upset when you heard this news. But at the same time, I could work up my courage because I know that you know me better than anyone else, will understand, and wait for me. It's been 6 years since I met the members and ran towards the same dream! I was able to come this far thanks to members and MIDZY. It really feels like we've been through a lot. And of course, there were plenty of happy memories we made together. Those were so precious, but I realized that I was not taking care of myself because I was so focused on moving forward. MIDZY are the ones who I am always grateful for, more than anyone else, so I only want to give you love and happiness. But I thought I had to take some time off and love and take care of myself first to do so. As always, I sincerely hope MIDZYs stay happy. I will return healthier than ever so that I can return all your love and heartfelt concerns.

I love you and thank you, as always.

-From Lia"

"Open up," I called through the door. It didn't take long for the door to swing open, revealing a person of the same height. I scanned their entire face with my eyes and offered a small smile as I slipped past them. "Ryujin and Yeji aren't here," Lia informed me as she followed me into the kitchen.

I placed the bag on the kitchen counter and began to unpack it. "Hmm? Oh, okay," I replied, slightly puzzled that she felt the need to mention that. Lia looked at me with a questioning expression, which made me smirk a little. "Why are you here?" the older girl asked. I turned to face her.

"Hmm? Oh, I read the article," I answered as I placed her favorite cup noodle flavors into the cabinets. Lia's eyes widened as she watched me. She stared at me. I knew the flavors thanks to Yeji; I had asked her about them. My lips pressed together as I looked back at the older girl.

"Are you okay?" I asked, which seemed to surprise Lia. She smiled after the initial shock, her eyes nearly closing as she beamed. She moved a bit closer and suddenly embraced me. My body tensed up. "You're really sweet," Lia said with a light laugh as she released me shortly after.

She licked her lips. "Yes, I'm fine," Lia replied, but that only made me look more concerned. I hummed in disbelief. "Sit down... I'll make you something to eat," I said, prompting a surprised look from Lia. She smiled briefly and nodded her head. "And you should make something for yourself," Lia added, which I immediately agreed to. I turned on the stove and placed a pot of water on it.

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

Yeji POV

Tiredly, I yawned as I opened the door and kicked off my shoes. I had to pass by the living room where my eyes briefly landed on the American TV series currently playing. Then I noticed Lia sleeping on the couch, covered with what appeared to be a cardigan.

I gently shook the younger girl until she slowly opened her eyes. "Why are you sleeping on the couch? Go to bed," I whispered, a small smile on my face. Lia, however, looked around in confusion. She noticed the cardigan on her and chuckled. Slowly, she sat up and stretched.

"You know, I wouldn't be disappointed at all if you went out with Y/n," the younger one said, wiping the drool from her mouth. Surprised, my eyes widened. Lia smirked, "She was here and brought me cup noodles and stuff. She even prepared them. It seems like she was worried," Lia continued, her smile still present.

"What? Y/n was here?" I asked, my voice full of surprise. Lia nodded. I licked my lips and sat down on the couch. "She read the article. She was worried," the younger one added. My eyes grew wide as a smile formed on my face. "Have you two ever had a conversation all by yourselves?" I asked, visibly surprised.

Lia burst into laughter, her eyebrows raising. "Nope. You've really snagged someone good, so just tell her how you feel already," she said, placing her arm on the couch's backrest, looking at me with a mischievous grin. My eyes widened as my face flushed. "I don't understand what you mean," I replied, which made Lia laugh out loud.

She got up from the couch, her hand resting on my shoulder. "Sure, Yeji. Sure," the younger one said sarcastically as she laughed and headed to her room. I stared after her with my mouth open. Shortly after, my eyes fell on the cardigan on my lap. Lia had placed it there just before she left.

Lia knew...

My eyes shifted to my phone, and I opened the chat with Y/n. I immediately noticed the last few messages from her, asking what Lia liked and needed, and my responses. Nervously, I bit my lip.

Me (22:52): I heard you were here? Why didn't you tell me? I would have come home earlier.

I shook my head and deleted the message. I took a deep breath and started typing again.

Me (22:52): You left your cardigan here.

Y/n (22:53): Wow, if it isn't Hwang Yeji, the traitor 😩😕😞😣

I chuckled as I read her swift response. Still, I bit my lip nervously as I typed a reply.

Me (22:53): JYPE organized this meeting. I didn't know I'd see her.

Y/N (22:53): She even flirted with you!!!😤😤😞😣

Me (22:53): Jealous?

Y/n (22:54): Maybe 😉

Me (22:54): Well, maybe she was just being friendly.

Y/n (22:54): Friendly or not, I'd rather have you all to myself. 🥸😌

I couldn't help but blush at Y/n's reply. It was subtle but carried a hint of longing that sent shivers down my spine.

Me (22:55): That's quite possessive of you, Y/n 😏🫣

Y/n (22:55): Can you blame me? You're amazing ❤️🤭😏

I felt my heart skip a beat as I read her words. My fingers hovered over the keyboard as I contemplated my response.

Me (22:56): You're not so bad yourself, Y/n❤️

Y/n (22:56): Flattery will get you everywhere, Yeji 😏❤️

I chuckled softly, feeling the warmth of our conversation wrapping around me. It was a feeling I didn't want to let go of.

Me (22:57): Well, I wouldn't mind going everywhere with you.😳🤫

Y/n (22:57): Is that an invitation?

Me (22:58): Maybe it is 🤫🤔

The anticipation hung in the air as I waited for Y/n's response, my heart racing with every passing second.

Y/n (23:05): Well, it's getting late, Yeji. I should probably go to bed soon. 😴 but next time i WILL come over! 😏🫡🤗

Yeji (23:06): Yeah, you should get some rest. Sweet dreams, Y/n. 💤✨

Y/n (23:08): You too, Yeji. Dream about... something nice. 😉❤️

Yeji (23:10): Oh, I'm sure I will. Night, Y/n. 🌙😘🥵

Y/n (23:11): Good night, Yeji. Sleep tight. 😴🌟

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

Y/N POV

I caught my breath when I saw the woman in front of me. "Wow, you're beautiful," I exclaimed as I admired the woman before me. She sat right in front of me and replied, "No, you're beautiful." My forehead furrowed in response, "Bitch, no. You're beautiful!" I said, which made the woman burst into laughter.

My eyes widened a bit as I realized I had just used a profanity. Even Haewon beside me heard it and looked at me with wide eyes. I nervously smiled as I apologized to the fan. The woman of about the same age quickly reassured me and laughed along.

I smiled and promptly signed her poster and anything else she had bought. Her hand on my arm, she shared a story with me, and I listened with interest, nodding at times. Her fingers brushed over my arm repeatedly, which I only noticed after a while. My eyes widened in surprise. It was clear she was flirting.

Nervously, I started laughing and blushing a bit. Waving goodbye, I bid farewell to the fan as her time was up. The next fan approached, and we immediately started talking. A constant smile on my face, though I was always very nervous because I didn't really enjoy the attention. But it was nice to see that most fans were even more nervous, which helped ease my anxiety.

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

A Memorable Fan Meeting: Y/n's Unplanned Encounters and a Daring Remark

K-Pop Sensation Y/n recently held a fan meeting that left fans both thrilled and a bit shocked. The event was an intimate gathering where fans had the opportunity to meet their idol up close and personal. However, it was a particular interaction that stirred up conversations on social media.

The fan meeting took place in a cozy venue filled with excited fans who were eagerly waiting to meet Y/n. The atmosphere was electric as fans anticipated their brief moments with the beloved idol. One by one, they approached Y/n, who was genuinely appreciative of their support.

One fan, in particular, captured everyone's attention. As she approached Y/n, she couldn't help but express her admiration for the idol's beauty. "Wow, you're beautiful," Y/n was taken aback by the compliment but didn't hesitate to return it. "No, you're beautiful," she replied, resulting in a charming exchange of compliments.

However, what followed next raised a few eyebrows. Y/n playfully added, "Bitch, no. You're beautiful!" The use of the word "bitch" caught some fans off guard and even garnered mixed reactions from those in attendance. Some fans felt that Y/n's use of the word was inappropriate, while others found it amusing and saw it as playful banter.

Despite the playful remark, the fan meeting continued on a positive note. Y/n signed autographs, took photos, and engaged in heartfelt conversations with fans. One interaction, in particular, was noteworthy due to its flirtatious undertones.

As Y/n attentively listened to a fan's story, she gradually became aware of her touch. Her fingers traced her arm repeatedly, and it soon became evident that she was flirting with her. Y/n's nervous laughter and slight blush revealed her surprise at the unexpected flirtatious encounter.

The fan meeting ended with fans leaving with unforgettable memories and Y/n appreciating the unwavering support from her devoted followers. While the use of the word "bitch" may have raised a few eyebrows, it was just a momentary lapse in judgment during an otherwise heartwarming event.

In the world of K-Pop, where fans share a unique bond with their idols, such moments of spontaneity and genuine interactions are cherished. Y/n's fan meeting was a testament to the close relationship between idols and their fans, leaving everyone excited for future encounters and surprises.

Hate_Hunter: Seriously, Y/n? Using that word was totally inappropriate. Show some respect

NotImpressed: Y/n needs to be more professional. This isn't how you talk to fans.

User123: What a fun fan meeting! Y/n always keeps things interesting. 😄❤️

Cric101: Seriously, Y/n? Using the word "bitch" during a fan meeting is not cool. Show some professionalism.

KpopLover99: Y/n's playful banter makes her so relatable! Love her even more after reading this.

ForeverYnStan: This fan meeting was amazing! Y/n's interactions with fans are always so heartwarming.

LoveYnHateWord: Y/n, we adore you, but please be mindful of the words you use in public. It's disappointing to see you slip up like this.

SmileyFace: The word "bitch" might have been unexpected, but it's clear Y/n meant it playfully. Let's focus on the positive moments.

Disappointed_Fan: I expected better from Y/n. That language was unnecessary.

LaneMats: Playful or not, using that word is just disrespectful. Y/n, you need to apologize.

CuriousMind99: Hey, @KpopFanatic21, I've been wondering, is Y/n gay? Some of her interactions seem pretty flirty with fans.

MysterySolver123: @CuriousMind99, it's hard to say. Celebrities can be friendly and flirty without it implying anything about their sexual orientation.

CuriousMind99: @MysterySolver123, true, but Y/n has had some intriguing interactions with other female idols too. Could be a sign.

RespectfulFan456: Let's not jump to conclusions. Being playful and friendly doesn't define someone's sexual orientation.

PrivacyMatters77: Y/n's personal life is her own business. We should respect her privacy regardless of her sexual orientation.

ForeverYnStan: Absolutely, @RespectfulFan456. It's essential to remember that speculating about someone's sexuality can be invasive and hurtful.

WaitForConfirmation: Y/n has never publicly addressed her sexual orientation, so until she does, we shouldn't assume anything.

[mimisempai]

Fulfilled

Summary

When Dream realizes that Hob is really sick, he decides to take matters into his own hands. By taking care of his beloved, he realizes that sometimes it doesn't take much to feel completely fulfilled.

Notes For the Dreamling week, day 6 : Sick

Series : The life of a retired Lord of Dreams

On AO3

Rating G - 872 words

"It's nothing, just a little cold."

Dream had heard this several times since the beginning of the week, whenever Hob sneezed or coughed slightly, but today even Dream could see that it was more than just a cold, judging by his lover's condition.

He decided to take matters into his own hands, secretly happy to finally be able to do something concrete for his love. 

He said quietly to his lover, who was trying to suppress a coughing fit: "Hob, go back to bed.

Hob tried to protest weakly, "But my classes..."

Dream shook his head, put his hands on Hob's shoulders, turned him around and pushed him towards the bedroom, "I'll call the school, you do as I say. Go to bed."

Hob replied, "I love it when you're so bossy..." the end of his sentence ended in another coughing fit.

Dream chuckled softly, "That doesn't mean you shouldn't do what I say."

Hob didn't protest, a sign of his weakened state, and padded towards the bedroom.

When he was sure that Hob had gone back to bed, Dream called the school and then went back to the kitchen. 

He emerged thirty minutes later with a tray containing a bowl of steaming soup, a glass of water, and a pill.

When he reached the bedroom, he saw Hob curled up in the middle of the bed, shivering and wrapped in the covers. He could only see his face and was struck by how pale his skin was against the dark sheets.

He placed the tray on the nightstand and sat down beside him, asking softly, "Hob, dear, how are you?"

He gently brushed Hob's hair away from his eyes and sweaty forehead. Hob let out a soft moan as he opened his eyes to look at his lover before whispering in a raspy voice, "Not good."

The fact that Hob didn't try to downplay his condition said a lot.

Dream stroked his cheek gently and said softly, "My poor love, do you think you could swallow anything?"

Hob nodded weakly and Dream helped him to sit up. First he handed him the anti-fever pill and the glass of water, and when he'd swallowed them, he put the tray with the bowl of soup on Hob's lap.

Dream said quietly, "I made you some soup. I hear it's good for-"

Hob interrupted, "You made soup?"

Dream replied in a sulky voice, "Hey, I'll have you know I'm getting better at cooking. And Matthew advised me."

Hob replied in a hoarse voice, "Just kidding. I know you're perfectly capable."

He wrapped his hands around the bowl as if to soak up the warmth and brought it to his mouth, blowing on it several times to cool the soup before beginning to drink it slowly. Only a few moans of pleasure as the hot beverage flowed down his throat broke the silence. The fact that he spoke much less than usual was further proof that Hob was indeed ill.

Dream watched him in silence, and when he saw that the bowl was empty and his lover's head began to wobble, he said gently, "I think it's time for you to go back to bed."

Hob nodded, and as soon as Dream had cleared the tray, he immediately slipped under the sheets. Dream was about to take the tray to the kitchen when Hob's hand held him back and he asked, almost shyly, "Will you stay with me?"

As if Dream could refuse anything to Hob, who so rarely asked for anything for himself.

The time for his consideration must have been too long, because Hob continued, "Let it go. You don't have to. I don't want to make you sick."

But Dream had seen the longing behind the deflecting.

He replied gently, "You know I'm the Lord of Dreams, even if I'm retired and immortal and all that, remember?" then he climbed into the bed, wrapped his arms around Hob and pulled him against his chest.

With no strength to protest, Hob sighed in contentment before he started coughing again and had no choice but to lean against Dream as he rubbed his back to make the coughing fit go away.

When the coughing was over, Dream held Hob against him and whispered into his hair, "Try to sleep now," before kissing him gently on the forehead.

Hob hummed softly in agreement, and little by little Dream felt his lover's body grow heavier against his, his slightly wheezing breathing slowing and deepening, signs that Hob was fast asleep.

Dream didn't move an inch, even when his arm went numb from the position and weight of Hob's body against his own. Nothing in the world would have made him move if it meant disturbing his beloved's sleep.

For once, the Lord of Dreams felt fulfilled by something he'd done in a way he'd never felt before.

His lover had given him so much over the years that taking care of him during his illness was the least he could do. 

For any human, it would probably be something normal, even banal. But for him, it was one of the most satisfying things he'd ever done.

Taking care of his beloved.

Taking care of his Hob.

_________

Still not beta'd

Still not my native language

Still hoping you'll enjoy this story  🥰

Still thanking you for bearing with me 😝I

Dreamling Masterlist here

[fanfics-and-thoughts]

🤚Warning! Talks of depression, among other things that come with that depression. Viewer discretion is advised!🤚

Also!! Grammar, punctuation, it's not my strongest, I might accidentally use the wrong word, when i meant the other, keep that in mind! Of course I'll go through and comb out out some of the kinks, I just hope everything is conveyed well enough, and that you'll like it or find it alright!! Thank you!!

Let's begin!!

_______________

"Mm?..." Mammon slouched in his chair, looking around the table "Hmmmm?..."

"What's wrong, Mammon?" Asked, Asmodeus.

"Mc didn't show up for breakfast..." he replied.

"Hm? Maybe they just slept in, and they'll show up soon. This isn't their frist time missing breakfast."

Mammon started tapping his fork on the plate, feeling kind of irritated, that no one looked a bit worried.

"If you're worried about them, how about going to check on them after breakfast?" Said, Lucifer.

"Fine!" Mammon said, as he started stuffing down his food.

"Hey! Pace yourself, you're gonna choke yourself!!" Leviathan yelled!

As they continued eating, Mammon finished 15 minutes early, and ran out of the dining room, whilst the rest of the brothers finish up.

He ran down the hall, and stopped, right in front of Mc's room, he took a deep breath and knocked. "Hey! You alright? We haven't seen ya in the past three mornings!..." he sighed again, and said, as he leaned his head against the door. "I miss seeing you every other morning... I'm really worried about you..."

The door unlocks and is cracked opened. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to worry you..." Mc said, looking up at Mammon, with tired, baggy eyes, like they haven't slept good in awhile. Mammon standing there, what felt like, a long second, he just stared at you, before saying.

"N-no, it's.... it's not okay, you need to eat! Breakfast is the most Important meal of the day, and i-..."

He stops to look at your expression, it was from a, tired but happy to see him look, to a more neutral, distant look, as your forehead leans against the edge of the door.

"Look... what's going on?" He said, in the most gentle way he could.

You look at him once again, and said. "I'm... I'm just not really feeling to good today." Your voice, in a low pitch.

"Oh?.. do you want some company, until you feel better?" Mammon asked, the politeness in his voice, genuine.

You smile. "Thank you, but... I think, I would just like to be alone for awhile..."

Mammon stood there for a minute, he puts his hand on his chin, thinking (maybe they just need some space for a bit) He then let's out an exasperated sigh. "Okay, but if you need me, for anything, please call me! Okay!?"

You smile, then said."Okay." Then shut the door, locking it behind you.

Mammon just stood there, feeling a bit frustrated, and dumbfounded.

Mc had always been there, sure sometimes they wouldn't show up to certain events, but always, seems to come through! He wasn't going to give up on then!

As the day passes, Mammon would send text messages to check up on you.

-12:03pm

Mammon: "Hey, just checking in on ya!"

- 12:48pm

Mc: "Thx, I'm good."

Mammon: "Need me to get you anything after RAD?"

Mc: "Mm no."

Mammon: "Okay then! :]"

- 2:30pm

Mammon: "Oi! How you doin?"

- 2:55pm

Mc: "Well enough. How was your day?"

Mammon: "Good, Lucifer's been on my ass for not paying attention."

Mammon: "One of these days he's gonna lecture me to death!"

Mc: "So the same old, huh?"

Mammon: "Hey! I can't help it, shits' borin as hell!"

- 4:10pm

Mammon: "Oi! Did ya eat yet!?"

- 4:30pm

Mammon: "Hello?"

- 5:15pm

Mc: "Hey, sorry, I was asleep, I'm fine."

Mammon: "Good, I was about to head to your room!"

Mammon: "Plus, isn' it a bit late to be taking a nap?"

Mc: "heh, it's never to late!"

Mammon: "Startin' to sound like Belphe!"

Mc: "Guys' got some good ideas."

Mammon: "Taken lessons from Belphe!? What has the world come to!?"

- 7:00pm

Mammon: "I never got an answer, if have eaten yet today...."

Mammon: "Please answer."

- 7:35pm

Mammon: "Mc?..."

Mammon was growing concerned for your well-being. So he ordered your favorite food, whilst avoiding Beel, he headed towards your room.

As he's about to knock, he hears faint whimpering, he trys to open the door, but it was still locked.

"Mc? Mc?... it's me, Mammon, please open the door."

There was no answer.

Mammon leans his head and hand against the door. "Please... please answer me... I've been thinking about you all day, wondering if you're okay, if you have eaten or not..."

His eyes start to fill with tears, and as he speaks, his voice shakes. "I'm begging you, p-please let me in!"

You put your hand on the door knob, taking a breath, trying to clam yourself down before opening the door.

The door opens, to see Mammon crying, holding a bag of food. "M-Mc?..." you grab his hand, pulling him into your room, closing the door you.

He wipes his eyes with his free hand, and says. "What's goin' on? Please tell me, I want to help... I want to understand!"

You look at the floor, as you grasp your shoulders. "I... I just don't see any reason to, well, to do anything..."

Mammon looks at you with concern. You bite your lip, trying not to cry, trying to tell him what's been going on in your mind lately. "I..." you start to shake "I just don't feel like existing anymore!!"

"I feel as if I exist for others, if die now, that'll cause more problems... I can't do that, but i also see no reason to continue if I can't exist for myself, just as I do for others!!"

You tremble uncontrollably, your legs give out, falling to the floor, hand over your mouth, eyes shut tight.

"It hurts to think about...."

As you cry, Mammon without thinking, drops the bag of food, along with himself on to the floor. He pulls you into a tight hug, crying.

"I... I didn't know, I'm so sorry." His voice, shakey, but sincere.

You open your eyes, letting the tears fall on to his shoulder, pulling your arms up, to hold him, placing your hands on his back.

"Thinking back on it, it was so obvious..."

"Never staying to long for party's, even if you did, you'd sometimes look like the loneliest person in the room."

"Not to mention you being in devildom, away from your human life..."

He pulls away, and cups your face into his hands, looking into your eyes, he wipes your tears away.

"You've been so strong, so very, very strong... not just for us."

"Someone that really hates themselves, wouldn't have done what you've done!"

"You literally fixed a family of demons, with in less then a year!"

"You've awesome!!"

You lightly giggled, occasional tears running down your face, as you said.

"I just really love you guys..."

Mammon smiles, kisses you on the forehead, then placing his forehead onto yours.

"That's why we love you to."

"You're not a glorified therapist, you're way more to us, even if we don't say it, we definitely show it!"

You smile, his hands still on your face.

"If you ever feel lonely in a room full of people again, or just need someone to talk to, I'll be there, just call out to me."

You place your hands over his, pressing his hands a little deeper into your cheeks.

"Okay, that sounds... amazing, thank you, Mammon."

He smiles, and kisses your forehead again.

"Now, come on, let's eat and watch some TV or somethin'."

He pulls you up off the ground, along with the bag of food. The both of you lay on the bed, facing the TV, cuddling as you eat your food.

_______________

Oh boy! To say the least, I am also going through my own issues lol!

Nonetheless, it felt right, and kind of helped, because I know, I'm not the only one going through it!

But, I hope y'all liked it, and that I conveyed what I was feeling, whilst making this!

💖Have a good day!! 💖

[contreparry]

happy friday ann! for the dadwc: “Your hair keeps falling into your eyes, do you know that? Here, lemme just—”

Absolutely! Here's some f!Hawke/Isabela for @dadrunkwriting!

She has a pull on her, something fierce and powerful and unrelenting. She was like the tide, something that was impossible to ignore or combat. Or perhaps Marian was like the sea and Isabela the moon, drawing her ever onward, forwards and back for the rest of her days. Dramatic, maybe, but that was how she felt.

Charisma, Marian thought as she watched Isabela carefully explain all of the cards in her wicked grace deck to Merrill. Merrill listened attentively; her wide green eyes bright with curiosity as she analyzed every card. And Isabela- Marian bit her lip to keep herself from sighing like a love-drunk fool. A lock of Isabela's curly hair fell out of her blue kerchief and brushed against the curve of her cheek like a kiss. Merrill asked Isabela a question, and Isabela flung her head back and roared with laughter. That laugh- unrepentant and loud- drew eyes from all across the tavern. Isabela had charisma, and it pulled Marian in until she couldn't escape- and she didn't want to. Not now. Not ever.

"You could talk to her," Fenris suggested, a sly note coloring his normally even, composed tone. "She does like to talk."

"What would I do without you to advise me, Fenris?" Marian asked, and she was only being a little sarcastic. Fenris was prickly and angry and brilliant and terribly considerate when he wanted to be- and he was far wiser than anyone gave him credit for. Perhaps he was a little cynical, but after the life he led... well, who wouldn't be?

The point was this: Fenris often had a good idea about things and people. If he thought that she ought to speak her mind to Isabela he was probably right. Marian just wished speaking wasn't so difficult. She had what she wanted to say all plotted out (worked on it for months, in fact). I enjoy our time together. This means more to me than simple fun. I like your company as a person, not just for- but then Isabela would say something with her wicked sharp tongue, or she'd smile and there would be crow's feet at the corners of her amber brown eyes, or she'd drop her head to Marian's shoulder and the words would fly out of Marian's head like a flock of pigeons launching themselves of a Chantry roof.

"Hmm," Fenris hummed, his green eyes dancing with a cat-like amusement as he leaned back against the wall and watched the tavern from his seat. "You'll forget which knife you use for fish versus meat, most likely. Go talk to Isabela."

"Bossy," Marian teased, but she pulled herself out of her seat.

"Go. Or else I shall have no peace from the moonstruck calf's eyes you make at her," Fenris said, and he dismissed her with a wave of his hand as if he were a prince.

Marian made her way around the other patrons in The Hanged Man, dodging elbows and tables of rowdy drunks until she stood by Isabela's side at the table. Isabela, for her part, easily made room for her and wrapped one strong arm around her waist.

"And how is our broody darling elf in the corner?" Isabela asked, her voice bubbling with barely restrained laughter. By the Maker, that laugh was one of Marian's favorite sounds!

"Content. He has a bottle of wine and dropped sage advice, he's going to be a smug little shite for the rest of the evening," Marian sighed. "How are the card lessons progressing?"

"Merrill's a fast study, though she has a few too many tells," Isabela replied. "But we all knew she'd take to this like a fish to water." She sounded proud, so proud, and Marian shared in that pride. There was a certain joy in seeing a friend grow skilled at something, and Merrill's growth from guppy to card shark was a delight.

"Isabela says I tap my foot when my hand's good," Merrill sighed. "Maybe I'll strap weights to my ankles so I can win a game."

"Against Varric and Isabela? Impossible," Marian said sympathetically. "But you have more than a fair chance against Fenris. And I know you'll beat Sebastian if we convince him to play a round."

"We have every confidence in you, Merrill," Isabela declared. "And when have either of us steered you wrong- with cards, that is."

"Always with the qualifiers," Merrill teased. "It's as if you're afraid of what I might say!"

"Afraid? Never, kitten," Isabela laughed before turning the full force of her bright eyes onto Marian. "Now, whatever was it that sent you to our corner tonight, Hawke?"

This was it, Marian thought. This was the moment. All she had to do was ask Isabela for a private conversation, take her somewhere less crowded, less noisy, and tell her that she mattered, that she was precious, that she made life in Kirkwall not just bearable but worth all the shite she put up with every day. All she had to do was unstick her tongue from the roof of her mouth and spill her heart out, and that wasn't a frightening prospect at all, was it? If there was anyone she'd trust to keep her heart safe it was Isabela. She didn't have to be afraid. She didn't want to be afraid! She wouldn't be afraid!

"Your hair keeps falling into your eyes, do you know that?" Marian blurted out instead of the speech she planned to make, and she could sense Fenris shaking his head and turning to his wine in frustration. "Here, lemme just-" Marian reached out, carefully grasped the errant curl, and pushed it away until it was tucked behind Isabela's ear.

"Ah, my hero," Isabela teased, and she drew up to her toes and pecked Marian's cheek before leaning in and whispering in her ear.

"Whatever did I do to fluster you, sweet thing?" she asked coyly, and she squeezed Marian's hip in her hand just once before letting go to flop down in the chair and resume card lessons with Merrill. Marian, the heat in her face so fierce that she thought her head might be on fire, followed suit and sat across from them at the table. Isabela smiled, a wicked gleam in her eye, and blew her a kiss. Marian returned the gesture, blushing like a foolish maiden at her first dance.

So perhaps she couldn't say the right words tonight. But there would be a tomorrow, and more beyond that. She'd get it out- and get it right- another time.

[autumnbell32]

I've had bad depressive episodes- more than I count- since I was 12. The hypomanic episodes- I don't know how long I've had them. Sometimes, since my baseline is usually sadness and anxiety peppered with neutrality, it is hard for me to tell the difference between feeling happy and hypomania- Am I just feeling good? Am I scrambling to get everything done before the next depression hits or is this maniacal energy? The past few days...there has been NO question that I'm hypomanic, perhaps even experiencing full blown mania.

These are the worst symptoms I have ever had. I've heard things before...during a bad depressive episode and during times when I am overstimulated or sleep-deprived. They've always caught me by surprise- I hear them internally, of course, but imagine being completely alone and hearing a voice that isn't coming out of your own mouth or your phone. I've always paused after it happens, at least momentarily. Before this week, they had been nonsensical words and phrases that weren't contextual. Today, though. I woke up after few hours of sleep and immediately I was in eye-bulging, hand-trembling, panic city.

I couldn't stay in bed anymore. I got up, pulled my hair back, and went and got my usual iced coffee. LIKE AN IDIOT. Sure, lets add caffeine to this mix of heart palpitations and paranoia. Dum-dum. By the time I got back home I was sitting in my car, hearing a voice telling me I was "loveless." "It's just a voice...a biochemical issue...a brain glitch from new meds and genetics and lack of sleep." Yeah, I started bawling anyways. Loveless? Add into the fact that I have zero confidence right now and feel the most unmarketable I have ever felt and feel super attracted to someone I am talking to who, I'm pretty sure, thinks I'm a soft 4 (if that). And then someone on the Youtube replied to a non-inflammatory comment I made about Pete Davidson's fine self with insults of me being ugly and fat. I stared at the vegetarian breakfast sandwhich I had in the seat next too me, felt nauseated and it was waterworks. Fuck, I'm just trying my best. The psych meds have put weight on me.

I called my mom, asked her if I seem hypomanic. "Nope you seem happy." I called my brother, with his steady, calculated tone and told him my symptoms and told him I was scared. I mean, they aren't equipped to deal with this but I don't talk to many people. OH and I messaged the person I am talking to, who also deals with similar issues, and had a meltdown. I mean, things are great 👍. I went inside, called a nurse line and messaged my therapist, both advised ER. I can't. I can't miss any work. I'll go to this 6 hour short shift and drive myself to ER afterwards if I still feel like my brain is rolling out of my skull and down into a ditch. I have the next two days off. I called my insurance's helpline that is staffed with LCSWs, telling her I can't miss work, and we came up with a plan. Which I have written down on a notecard to keep in my pocket today. Listen, my aunt was late onset schizophrenic and her daughter was as well, I'm not going to pretend like I'm not scared. But all I can do is try to support myself and handle it. And not panic.

I had plans to go to a haunted house/Halloween theme park tonight as well. I love love love horror, but I'm guessing that could be triggering for me right now so I canceled. I feel so badly, he got tickets. But I have to coddle this organ under my skullcap right now. It's the only one I have.

I feel like I'm going to vomit.

[khoicesbyk]

The Royal Romance.

Forevermore.

A/N: this is the next chapter in the journey of my OTP. Follow along for the fun.

Rated: Mature (at times can and will be Explicit. I'll be sure to change the rating when and if that happens). | Contains sexual content and strong language. (You know? The usual. Y'all should be used to this from me by now 😁) | Bolded and/or italicized words are conversations and thoughts of the characters. | Main Characters: King Marquise Rys (LI) and Queen Shanelle Miller-Rys (MC) | All Characters and names: (except MC and original characters created by me and/or other authors [their characters have been mentioned and/or used in the story with their permission] ) are property of Pixelberry.

Current Word Count: 5,540 words. (may be slightly more or may be slightly less. Look, I stop counting after editing and re-editing and driving myself insane. 🤷🏾‍♀️)

If you’d like to be added to my tag list. Just reblog or DM me and I will gladly add you! 😁😘

This series is rated Mature and/or Explicit. It is NOT reading material that is safe for those under 18. Reader discretion is STRONGLY advised!

Missing a chapter or want to read a chapter again? I got you covered! Click ——> Here!

Tag List: @choicesficwriterscreations 

Chapter 3.) Ties That Bind.

It had been a few days since Shanelle called her father to let him know that his brother had a stroke and was in a coma. It was news Damien took in stride but Her Majesty could tell her father was heartbroken. When the press release went out about the ailing former King some in the kingdom were sad for him but others not so much. None more than Her Majesty. But protocol dictated that she showed some form of compassion even if she didn't want to. 

She met her parents at the residence of the palace. 

“Hi Daddy,” she said as she hugged her father. 

“Hello, my darling,” he replied. 

She was happy to see her parents. She then hugged her mother. 

“It's good to see you butterfly.”

“It's good to see you too, Madam Minister.”

Shantel snickered just as Marquise and the children came around the corner. 

“Grammy! Pop Pop!” Khari said as she ran up to her grandparents. 

Damien opened his arms to her and her brothers. 

“Hello, my sunshine! Hello boys! How are you?” he said as he embraced them. 

“We're good Pop Pop. Mommy told me that your brother is sick.” Khari replied. 

Damien smiled softly. 

“Yes, he is. But his doctors will help to make him better.”

Khari nodded. 

“And we know you are sad. But we're here to cheer you up. Right boys?” Khari asked. 

Being with his grandchildren always made Damien’s heart swell. 

“Thank you my little ones. Your love can heal anything.”

Damien watched as Khari and the boys toddled over to Shantel. 

“My sweet babies! Grammy missed you.” 

Later that evening after spending family time, Damien found himself sharing a drink with his son-in-law. 

“Since it's just us Damien, how are you, really?” Marquise asked. 

Damien took a contemplative sip of his drink. 

“To be honest I'm not even sure. I am sad for my brother but I also know he made a lot of enemies in his time as King. So part of me feels like this may be his karma coming back to get him but still.” Damien replies. 

“He's your brother?” Marquise asks. 

Damien nodded. 

“Yes. I know why you and my daughter can't stand him and I understand that. I understand why you two would never allow him anywhere near the children. But despite all of that he is still family.”

“You've certainly gone to great lengths to stick your neck out for him.”

Damien shook his head. 

“I know. It's part of the promise that I made to my father before he died.”

“What promise was that?” Marquise asked. 

Damien sighed into his drink. 

“I promised my father that I would always be loyal to my brother. That I would always be here to help guide him. Because he would always need me to be by his side.” Damien replies. 

“Even though he's never done the same for you?” Marquise asks. 

“Yes. Even then. Loyalty and family make strange bedfellows. I would think you'd know what it's like to have an older brother on the trajectory to be a King.” Damien replies. 

Marquise nodded. 

“True. The only difference is mine has never turned on me the way yours has always taken every chance to turn on you.”

“I suppose you’re right,” Damien said with a sigh as he finished his drink. “I guess what you could say bothers me the most is that for the first time in years, I'll actually see him looking and being vulnerable. You know as well as anyone that vulnerability is dangerous.”

“This is true. But you have to remember Edward is no longer a King.”

Damien shook his head as he poured himself another drink. 

“That doesn't mean his enemies have forgotten his time as one.” 

“You said this would be the first time that you've seen him be this vulnerable in years. What do you mean by that?” 

Damien took a thoughtful sip of his drink. 

“When we were children, he had to have his tonsils removed.”

“Only his tonsils? You sure they didn't take his spine too?” Marquise asks. 

Damien chuckled softly. 

“Anyway, for the two weeks following that surgery, he was pitiful. Mad that he couldn't eat what he wanted.”

“I'm almost scared to ask this but what was that?” Marquise asked. 

“Our cook at the time, Lemmy, used to make the best brownies in the world. Edward adored them. So I would sneak him a brownie and a glass of warm milk every night before bed.” Damien replied. 

Damien sighed. 

“We weren't always awkwardly estranged, you know. There was a point in our lives when we were brothers and not just King and servant. We used to be inseparable as children. Always doing everything together.”

“What happened?” Marquise asks. 

“He remembered that although we are brothers, he is and was always meant to be the heir. Once he started taking his governance lessons and sitting in on political meetings with my father, he slowly changed. He got a taste of what true power was like and it shifted his mindset. It changed him. And he's never been the same since.” Damien replies. 

Marquise nodded. 

“I see.”

“That was always my fear of Shanelle taking the throne.”

“What? That she’d become power-hungry?” Marquise asked. 

“Yes. I sometimes feared that she'd forget who she really is. You know better than anyone how hard it is to bring peace and to govern. You also know how alluring that power is and how corruptive it can be. She's not a corrupt dictator like my brother and your father turned out to be. She actually cares about the people and their needs as well as the overall well-being of the kingdom. As do you. Yes, she's gotten used to having the absolute finest and most luxurious things in life, but that's because she's earned that life.” Damien replied. 

“That is something I can assure you that you never have to worry about. If there's one thing my wife has never forgotten it's her humanity. She knows who she is and where she came from. And she teaches that to our children every day. She has never forgotten how precarious her position as Queen is.”

Damien nodded. 

“I know. And please don't think that I doubt her abilities as a leader or yours for that matter. I just know what that much power can do to someone.”

Marquise nodded. 

“I understand.”

Damien nodded at him gratefully. 

“I'm glad you understand,” Damien said as he finished his drink, “thank you for the drink son. But I think it's time I get to bed. We are traveling to Cloutier tomorrow.”

“Good luck tomorrow Damien. I know that it won't be easy for you.” Marquise said as he held out his hand. 

“Thank you, son. I appreciate it,” Damien replied as he shook Marquise’s hand. “I'll see you in the morning, Your Majesty.”

“Goodnight Your Highness.”

The two men nodded to each other before going their separate ways for the night. The next morning with the children staying with Marquise, Shanelle and her parents made the trip to the former capital city of South Cordonia. As they rode to Cloutier Shanelle peered over to her father and could tell something was on his mind. 

“Are you okay Daddy?” She asked as she squeezed his left hand. 

That seemed to snap Damien out of his trance. 

“Yes, my darling I’m okay. I guess.” He replies. 

“What’s wrong dear?” Shantel asked her husband. 

Damien sighed heavily. 

“I guess this reminds me of the last time I was truly home,” Damien replies. 

Shantel laid her head on his shoulder. 

“You mean when we came here the day before your parents died?” Shantel asks. 

“Yes.” He replied quietly. 

Damien shook his head sadly before looking at his daughter. 

“You were just a baby when they died. You were just barely older than the boys are now. But the love they had for you was always so strong. Father adored you and mother…God she doted over you when we brought you here for the first time. Whatever you wanted she made sure you had it. I guess that's one of the reasons why Edward has always resented me.”

Shanelle smiled softly. 

“I guess this trip is bringing up feelings I thought were long buried. That's all. I don't want you two to worry about me.” 

“Too late honey. We’ll always worry about you.”

Shanelle smiled at her dad. 

“What mom said.” 

Damien smiled. 

“Thank you both.” 

The three spent the rest of the ride in companionable silence. Gazing out at the countryside. Seeing many getting ready for the upcoming Harvest Ball and Festival. As they rode down into the palace motorway, Damien took a deep breath. 

“Well here we are,” he said quietly. 

“It's okay Daddy. We’ll be right by your side.” Shanelle said reassuringly. 

“Thank you my darling. Having my two favorite girls with me makes this a whole lot easier.” 

The three exited the limo and headed to the entrance where they were greeted by Prince Edwin and someone from Damien’s past. 

“Good morning Your Majesty, Your Highness, Your Grace. Welcome to the palace.” Edwin said in greeting. 

“Good morning cousin. Thank you for welcoming us.” Shanelle replies. 

Edwin nods politely. 

“You're welcome, Your Majesty. Now please let me introduce you to my aunt Countess Alicia Jacquier-Barbaroux, my mother's lead ladies' maid and head of the palace staff here.”

Shanelle nodded politely to the woman. 

“It's good to meet you, Countess.” 

“It's good to meet you as well, Your Majesty.” the Countess replies before turning to Damien, “Your Highness. It's good to see you again.”

“Hello Countess, thank you for having us,” Damien replied, taking Shantel’s arm in his.

“Us?” she asks somewhat perplexed before regaining herself, “Ahh yes. Shantel is it? It's good that you’re here too.”

Shantel forces a smile. 

“Countess, my mother is a Duchess and is to be addressed as Your Grace.” Shanelle corrected her. 

Countess Alicia nodded politely. 

“My apologies, Your Majesty. It's good to have you here…Your Grace.”

“Thank you for having us Countess,” Shantel says coolly. 

Countess nods demurely before Edwin clears his throat. 

“Shall we go inside now?” Edwin asks. 

“Yes. Let's.” Shanelle replies. 

Edwin took his aunt’s arm and led Shanelle and her parents inside. As they walked behind their hosts Shanelle glanced over to her mother and read the tight expression on her face. 

“Mom, are you okay?” Shanelle asks. 

“Yes, baby I'm fine,” Shantel replied tightly. 

Shanelle looked at her father. 

“Daddy?” she asks. 

Damien sighed. 

“Let's just say, Countess Alicia and your mother do NOT get along,” he replies. 

“That's one way to put it,” Shantel muttered. 

“Do I need to have words with this woman?” Shanelle asks. 

“No baby. I'll be fine.” Shantel replied. 

Shanelle cleared her throat, catching her cousin's attention. 

“I'm surprised you’re here Edwin. I thought you weren't speaking to your father.”

Edwin stopped and then sighed heavily, rubbing his brow. 

“I’m not but because I am his eldest child, protocol dictates that I be here in his time of need. Same as you.” 

“And how are you doing? How is Pascal?” she asks. 

“Forgive me, Your Majesty but I'm not sure why you care,” he replied. 

“Because I know for a fact that you two have been together publicly since his divorce from Giana was finalized back in January. And because I actually want to see you be happy.”

Edwin looked at her and nodded slowly. 

“Thank you, Shanelle.”

“Whether you believe me or not, I wish you both the best. And so does my husband.”

“Thank you, cousin. I wasn't sure how you'd react.”

“Just because we've never really gotten along doesn't mean that I hate you. I genuinely want you to be happy.”

“I appreciate that.” he said before pausing momentarily, “If it's not too forward, I would like to extend you and His Majesty an invitation to our wedding next March.”

Shanelle nodded with a small smile. 

“We would be delighted to attend.”

“You would?” he asks. 

“Yes. Again I don't hate you. I would love to be there.” she replies. 

“Thank you. Now because of the divorce, Giana is barring their children from our wedding so I was hoping you'd allow the Princess and Princes to stand in as a flower girl and ring bearers on their behalf.”

“I'm sure my daughter would love that. I don’t know about my boys. I don't think they would understand the concept but I would love to see them walk down the aisle with their sister.” 

“Thank you, Shanelle. It means a lot to me that you and your family would attend and can you ask His Majesty if he wouldn't mind officiating,” he said to her.

“I most certainly can ask him.”

Edwin nodded gratefully before turning to Damien and Shantel, “I would love for you both to attend as well Uncle.”

Damien nodded gratefully. 

“Send us the invitation and your uncle and I will happily be there,” Shantel replies. 

Alicia rolled her eyes and Shantel caught it. 

“Is there something wrong Countess?” Shantel asks. 

“No no. Well…I'm just not sure why Edwin would invite you. I just thought this would be an intimate family affair.”

Damien sighed. 

“Not that you need to be reminded Alicia, but Shantel is my wife and Edwin’s aunt through marriage. She is no different than you.” 

“I was only kidding Damien.”

“Sure you were…” Shantel muttered. 

“Just so you know Countess, disrespecting my mother is the same as disrespecting me. And I will not tolerate being disrespected nor will I tolerate my mother being disrespected.” Shanelle warned the Countess. 

“Very well. I apologize…Duchess.” Countess Alicia said to Shantel. 

“Sure.” 

“Shall we continue?” Edwin asks before he continues down the main hall. 

Edwin led them to his father’s bed chamber. When they got to the door, they were greeted by two women. 

“Your Majesty, Your Highness, Your Grace, meet my cousins Lady Ariella Barbaroux-Lawrence and Lady Amina Barbaroux-Clauson,” Edwin said as he introduced them, “My ladies, please meet Her Majesty, and my aunt and uncle, Prince Damien and Duchess Shantel.”

Both ladies curtsied before joining their mother’s side giving Shantel the same side eye as their mother that Shanelle noticed. 

“Are you all ready?” Edwin asked. 

“Give us a moment, if you please,” Shanelle replies. 

Edwin nodded. 

“Of course Your Majesty.”

Shanelle pulled her parents into a nearby alcove. 

“Okay, what is going on here?” Shanelle asked her parents. 

Damien sighed. 

“Alicia was the one I was supposed to marry before I met your mother,” Damien replies. 

“Yeah, and the bitch has never let me live it down,” Shantel added. 

Shanelle groaned. 

“What is it with you Cordonians and marrying women you have no business marrying?” Shanelle teased. 

Her parents snickered. 

“The heart wants what it wants,” Damien replied. 

“Are you sure that the Countess won't be a problem?” Shanelle asked.

“Yes, my darling. Alicia has never forgiven me for marrying your mother but as you can clearly see I have never regretted my decision to marry the love of my life.” Damien replies. 

“It's also why Genevieve and I have never gotten along. To her and especially her step-sister, I've never been good enough for your father or his station.” Shantel added. 

“Jesus Christ!” Shanelle groaned. 

“We'll be fine, baby,” Shantel assured her daughter.

“Okay. Let's go see the rusty old windpipe Daddy calls a brother.” 

Damien snickered as he shook his head. Soon they rejoined Edwin outside the former King’s bedchamber door.

“Shall we?” Edwin asked. 

Shanelle nodded while Damien took a deep breath. 

Edwin opened the chamber door to reveal Edward lying in bed hooked up to an IV machine with Genevieve and a nurse by his side. Seeing Edward reminded Damien of what his father looked like in his final moments as he and his family walked in. 

“Father, Mother, you have guests.” Edwin informed his parents. 

When Edward looked up his face instantly soured. 

“What are you doing here in my palace?” he sneered at Shanelle. 

“Believe me I don't want to be here any more than you want me to be here. But since you decided to go off and have a stroke on me, I'm here. Also, you forget this is MY Palace. You stay here because I allow it.” Shanelle snapped at him. 

Edward turned his attention to Damien. 

“And what about you? What the hell are you doing here?” Edward asked Damien. 

Damien closed his eyes and exhaled slowly. 

“Last time I checked this was my home and you are my brother,” Damien replied. 

“Don't you dare get smart with me you simpleton!” Edward snapped at Damien. 

“Watch your mouth, Edward! Unless you want to foot the bill for your care yourself.” Shanelle warned him. 

“You can't do that!” Genevieve said to Shanelle. 

“You're right. I can't but my husband can and I will make sure that he does. I will not tolerate my father being disrespected. Especially by this pompous ass. So I suggest you tell your estranged husband to keep his trap shut.”

Genevieve narrowed her eyes at Shanelle before going back to tending to Edward. 

“Why are you even here Genevieve? I thought you filed for divorce.” Shanelle asked. 

“Yes well, Edward and I have reconciled. We are stronger together than we are apart.”

“You mean your stipend wasn't enough to finance your lifestyle,” Shantel quipped. 

Shanelle snickered. 

“I earned that stipend. Unlike you, Minister.” Genevieve sneered. 

“Minister? What are you talking about sister?” Alicia asked. 

“His Majesty has named her the new Education Minister. Not that someone like her deserves it.” Genevieve replies. 

“She certainly doesn't.”

Shantel rolled her eyes. 

“For the record, my mother has over 30 years of educational experience as an educator, she also has 2 MBAs, one in early childhood education and one in secondary education from NYU, and is working on her doctorate as we speak, as well as being the NYCPS Teachers Union president for nearly 25 years. Most of the nobles who were nominated before her had no prior experience in any form of education. It would do you both good to remember that. Thank you very much.” Shanelle snapped at them. 

Shantel nodded gratefully as Alicia rolled her eyes. 

“Very well. Apologies…Duchess.”

“Careful Alicia. Your envy is starting to show.”  Shantel warned her. 

“Can we do this somewhere else?” Damien asked. 

The two women glared at each other but backed down. That's when Damien finally walked over to his brother's bedside while his wife and daughter stayed close to the door. 

“You never did answer my question, little brother.” 

“What question is that?” Damien asks. 

“What are you doing here?” Edward replied. 

“I'm here because my older brother had a stroke. And whether he wants to hear or not I still care about him.” 

Edward scoffed. 

“I don't need your pity!” 

“And yet you have it anyway.”

“Well now that you've seen me, you and your family can leave.”

“I'm not going anywhere.”

“I said leave! I don't need you! I have never needed you! You were always the weakling that I had to carry for the sake of our parents. If it were up to me you would've been exiled the night they died!” 

That's when Damien snapped. 

“I have heard enough Edward! If you must know I'm here to remind you that you are no longer a King. Nor were you ever a God! You are just a man! You want to know why I'm really here? I'm here because whether you realize it or not, I am the only family that you have left!” Damien’s voice boomed, “Look at what all you've done in and with your life! The only reason Genevieve came back to you is because she's broke! Hell, even your own children want nothing to do with you because they are that ashamed of you! The only reason poor Edwin even is here is because of his duty to his father! The same as me!”

By the time Damien was done, Edward was stunned. It was the first time he had ever yelled at his brother. That's when a slow clap coming from the doorway broke out. 

“Well well well! Would you look at that? The coward finally found his spine. Never mind the fact that it only took you damn near our whole lives to do so.”

When everyone turned to the doorway in walked Shanelle’s Godfather and Damien’s best friend Commander Gaspard Devereaux. 

“What the hell are you doing here?” Alicia asked. 

When Gaspard turned to her his face soured. 

“Oh, good Lord! What cesspool did they drag you out of? If you must know, I'm obviously not here looking for you. I'm here as a guest of the Queen.” Gaspard replies. 

“I did not invite you!” Genevieve said. 

“I wasn't talking about you, you bottom-feeding wretch!” 

Shantel snorted. 

“I'm talking about my goddaughter,” Gaspard said, gesturing to Shanelle. 

“How dare you insult my wife?!” Edward exclaimed. 

“How dare you insult my wife?!” Gaspard mocked. “Very easily actually. Especially since I am no longer under your command. That means I can insult her and this cheap two-timing golddigger she calls a step-sister all I want!”

Genevieve seethed. 

“Now speaking of my goddaughter, where is my little beauty? Ahh, there you are! And look at you! You are as beautiful as the day I met you, my dear.”

Shanelle snickered. 

“Thank you, Godfather. It's good to see you.” Shanelle said as she hugged him. 

“It's good to see you too, Your Majesty,” he said with a bow. 

When he looked over at Shantel he had a smirk on his face. 

“Well well! If it isn't the cause of my exile!” he teased. 

“Oh go to hell Gaspard!” Shantel hissed. 

“So prickly! You know you used to have a sense of humor when you were younger.” 

Shantel shook her head with a smile. 

“You're lucky I tolerate you.” Shantel said as she hugged him, “It's good to see you.” 

“It's good to be seen.” 

“How is Amelia?” Shantel asked. 

“Fantastic. Ready for Thanksgiving.” Gaspard replies. 

“Good. I can't wait to see her and everyone.”

When Gaspard got to Damien he had a look of smug pride on his face. 

“Well well, you finally did it, old friend. You finally found your voice after years of being the punching bag of the conniving snake you call a brother. Gone are the days of you having the voice of a meager little church mouse, and here to stay are the days of you having the voice of a bullhorn.” 

Edward gave Gaspard a venomous look. 

“Are you quite finished?” Edward asked. 

That's when Gaspard turned to Edward. 

“Of course not Your former Majesty. I have only just begun. How fitting that the once-great King of South Cordonia has been humbled by a stroke. Tis a shame that it didn't claim your tongue or your life for that matter.” Gaspard replies. 

Edward looked at him indignantly.

“You filthy God awful excuse of—” Edward’s words were cut off by a coughing fit. 

“That's it! I want all of you out! Alicia get them out of here now!” Genevieve demanded. 

“At once Your Majesty,” Alicia replied. 

“If I may Countess, I'd like to have rooms prepared for my wife and I, and the Commander,” Damien said to her. 

“With all due respect Your Highness, you have no jurisdiction here,” Alicia replies. 

“You're right, he doesn't. But as the owner of this palace, I do. And as head of the staff here, you are under my command. With that said, I want rooms prepared here for my parents and Godfather, immediately. Thank you.” Shanelle said to Alicia. 

Alicia stared at Shanelle before clearing her throat nervously.  

“Y-yes, Your Majesty. Right away.” 

“Thank you, Countess.” 

“Do not…make rooms…for these fools!” Edward Said through a coughing fit. 

“Big Brother you are in no position to make any demands. As I said earlier this is my home. The same as yours.”

“This is not your home! Not anymore!” Edward wheezed. 

“No thanks to you! But now that you no longer have any power, you can no longer ban me from my home. And you certainly have no power to keep me from the one thing I treasure most in this world!” Damien snapped at his brother. 

“And dare I ask what that is?” Edward asked. 

“Our parents’ final resting place,” Damien replies.

“You stay the hell away from there!” Edward sneered at Damien. 

“You're no longer a King, Edward. You have no power anymore. Once more you’re no longer my King. Which means you have no power over me!” Damien snapped at his brother, before walking out of Edward’s room. With Shanelle, Shantel, and Gaspard hot on his heels. 

Once outside, Damien walked a few steps to a large picture window overlooking his mother’s garden. The tension in his body left him, and his shoulders slumped as he took a shaky breath. 

“Daddy? Are you okay?” Shanelle asked quietly. 

“I shouldn't have yelled at him like that. Not when he's in such a fragile state.” Damien replied. 

“What?! Are you insane?!” Gaspard asked. 

“Gaspard,” Damien replies. 

“Don't you Gaspard me! You had every right to yell at that no-good bastard! He's done nothing but bully me and especially you our whole lives. In case you've forgotten, I hadn't been able to come home in decades because he exiled me to America! An exile mind you, that your daughter and son-in-law lifted. On top of granting me the death benefits of my father that your brother refused to pay after he died.” 

“I haven't forgotten Gaspard. I could never forget.”

Gaspard scoffed. 

“Gee, I can't tell.”

“Gaspard, that's enough! You’re not the only one he hurt.” Shantel said to him. 

Gaspard sighed. 

“I'm sorry my friend. I wasn't trying to take this out on you.” 

Damien smiled softly at his best friend. 

“I know you aren't.”

The two embraced. 

“It's really good to see you, old friend.”

“Likewise Gaspard.” 

Damien faced out at the garden before looking back at his daughter. 

“Come with me?” he asks her. 

“I would love to,” she replies. 

Shanelle slipped her hand into his before they, her mother and godfather walked out to Damien’s mother’s garden. They took time to walk amongst the rows of Queen Angelique’s favorite flowers. Being able to share this with his daughter, meant the world to Damien. They stopped when they got to a garden chair set that had seen better days. 

“Do you remember this?” Damien asked his daughter. 

She looked at the set trying to recall it. 

“No, I don't. I'm sorry,” she replies. 

“It was where we had high tea with your grandmother. She invited me and Mama to join you and her.” Shantel piped up. 

Shanelle looked back at the garden chair set. 

“I don't remember that.” 

Shantel smiled at the garden set. 

“It was a few days before your coronation. She had all the ladies of her court there. That's when she first introduced you to them.” 

Shanelle closed her eyes and nodded. Damien wrapped her in a loving hug. 

“Your grandmother was so proud and excited to show you off to the ladies of the court. She had found out she had a granddaughter and she was going to make sure the whole world knew about you.” Damien said softly to his daughter. 

Shanelle softly wiped the tears from her eyes. 

“I miss her. And Baba too.” Shanelle said quietly. 

“You are the reason, he became a better King in his final days. That is one thing I am most proud of.”

“But I didn't do anything.” 

Damien kissed his daughter on her forehead.

“You changed his life and his view on his kingdom. Because he knew his kingdom would one day be yours. You made him a better man and King. No one can say they did that but you.” 

Shanelle laid her head on her father’s shoulder and smiled softly. 

Later that night, after making sure her parents and Godfather were safe, comfortable, and situated in their guest rooms at the old Palace, Shanelle was back home in her husband’s arms enjoying a glass of wine. 

“Well, you've had quite the day.”

Shanelle sighed. 

“Tell me about it. I swear if murder wasn't illegal or at least severely frowned upon, I'd bomb that damn palace and everyone in it.” 

Marquise snorted. 

“Ever my charming and beautiful murderess.”

“Those imbeciles deserve it!” 

Marquise refilled his drink. 

“Anyway, tell me more about your cousin’s upcoming wedding.”

Shanelle smiled softly. 

“He invited us and my parents and I couldn't say no. And I meant it when I told him that I am happy for him and Pascal.”

Marquise nodded. 

“Did he say who was officiating?” he asks. 

“Yes. I wanted to know if you'd officiate their wedding,” she replies. 

“Me?” 

“You do have the power to officiate weddings, Sir.” 

“True.” he said before taking a sip of his drink, “So I guess I should dust off my Bible and grab my officiating tie. I have yet another wedding.” 

Shanelle rolled her eyes good-naturedly. 

“What else happened?” he asked. 

“We toured my grandmother’s garden and Daddy showed me where she had us have high tea with her,” she replied. 

“Tell me about that.”

Shanelle smiled wistfully. 

“It's beautiful. All of her favorite flowers are there. I felt like she was there with us. I would love to bring Khari. She would love it.”

“I'm sure she would. She loves flowers. She loves taking flowers from the maze and bringing them inside.”

“Part of me is happy we went.”

“You were happy to see your uncle?” 

“No, you dumbass. It was good to be back in the palace because, for the first time, it didn't feel like a dungeon.”

“I mean it is your Palace, my love. You are allowed to come and go there as you please. And the only reason Edward and his family have been able to stay there is because you didn't want to take the only home your cousins had ever known away from them.” 

“True.”

“And now that your cousins are grown and clearly on their own, you have the power to evict His former Majesty if you choose to.” 

“Did I mention that he and Genevieve have apparently reconciled?”

Marquise made a face. 

“Well, that just ruined the mood.”

“Tell me about it.”

Just then Shanelle’s phone buzzed. 

“You should get that,” Marquise suggested. 

“Hello?” Shanelle answered. 

It was her father who was frantic over the phone. 

“Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Daddy slow down! What happened?…Mom and Countess Alicia did WHAT?!”

Shanelle listened to her father and tried to calm him down. 

“Okay, Daddy calm down! Where is Mom? Is she okay?…Okay, you need to calm her down and tell Godfather to quit laughing!”

Shanelle listened again before she hung up the phone.

“What is it?” Marquise asked. 

“Do you know who Countess Alicia Jacquier-Barbaroux is?” she replied. 

“Yes. She’s Genevieve’s step-sister. What about her?” he asked. 

“She's also about to be a dead woman,” she replies. 

“What happened?” 

“She got into a fight with my mother. And lost.” 

Marquise let out a breath. 

“Yikes!”

“Exactly.”

“Is mom okay?”

“Yeah, she's fine. She's just royally pissed.”

“I don't blame her. Where is the Countess now?”

“All I know is my parents are on one side of the palace and she's on the other.”

Marquise nodded decisively. 

“I’ll have an arrest warrant issued for the Countess in the morning.”

“In the morning? Why not now?”

“Because doing it now would mean that I'd have to get up and walk all the way down the hall to my office. And I don't want to do that now that I'm in a comfortable spot.”

Shanelle rolled her eyes. 

“Fine. I do have a question though.”

“Yes?”

“Wouldn't issuing a warrant on my mom’s behalf be considered showing favoritism?”

“Your Mother is an active member of the Royal Family. So no it's not.”

“Why can't you get a judge to do it?”

“Because all the nobles answer to me, not to the judges.”

“Good. The sooner that bitch is arrested the better.” 

“It will be done, my Queen.”

“Good. I'll go back to the palace tomorrow to check up on Mom and make sure she's really okay.”

“Do you want some company?”

“No, not unless you want to hear Genevieve bitching at me at the top of her lungs.”

“Oh, how I thoroughly enjoy making that woman and her God-awful husband suffer.”

“And you have the nerve to call me a murderess.”

“You want to drop a literal bomb on her.”

“No, I don't.”

“Yes, you do. Not that I blame you. Whereas I want to take pleasure in watching her suffer. And thus why we are not the same.”

“Yeah yeah…” she muttered. 

“Don’t worry my love. All will be taken care of by this time tomorrow. You have my word on that.”

“I know. And besides Khari will have your head if it isn't.”

“Ugh! Did you have to remind me?”

Shanelle snickered as she snuggled with her husband. Because he was right. He would make extra sure that this matter is dealt with as swiftly and quietly as possible.