#━━ ˟ ⊰ ✰ ooc ��� don't @ me.

[mochinomnoms]

Two's Company, Three's a Crowd, and Six is a Riot

ii. the sweetest tart in the red tyrant’s feast

[wc} - 8,227

[notes] - Riddle my baby...he deserves so many kisses...not sure if this feels super ooc or not but i liked it so this is what we got! i wanted to write so much more for him but it got too much so i had to cut down and make a few edits. also pls don't worry a whole lot about the poll at the end just choose pls

tags: @rosieboop @aliasrising @alienlatteinspace @wishicouldart @cottage-clockwork

make a choice at the end...

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ii. The sweetest tart in the red tyrant’s feast

Listen to: “Matsuri” by Fujii Kaze

An S.O.S. signal sent by Trey and Cater had the entire dorm on high alert for a last minute unbirthday party. 

High alert was putting it lightly, actually.

Riddle was meticulous in scheduling unbirthday parties well ahead of time. In fact, he made sure that all the Heartslabyul students had every single party, ceremony, gathering, and the like in their calendars from the start of the year to the end. 

This unbirthday party? It was in the middle of the week, in the middle of the afternoon, with only a few hours notice. Riddle must have gone insane.

“You! Get the tables set up! And you three, make sure the roses are painted red!” Trey was definitely stressed, barking orders out at the students that were already at the dorm. “Has anyone seen Cater? I need him to—”

“Trey! What’s going on, Riddle had me send out an urgent S.O.S., everyone is acting like their butts are totally up in flames—woah!”

Cater strolled in, phone in hand as he watched everyone run around, yelping as Trey caught him by his shoulders. 

“Cater! Where’s Riddle? Why is he having us do the unbirthday party two days early? I’m barely even able to get a cake ready, did he tell you anything?”

Trey looked like he’d aged 30 years just from his current expression alone, and Cater was having a hard time from laughing at it. 

“Pft—He’s getting his uniform on in his room. He texted me, which he neeeever does, B-T-W. I mean, he even told me to get the King’s chair.”

Hazel eyes met light green ones, blinking once. Twice. A third time. 

“The…King’s chair?”

“Yuh.”

“Riddle…asked for the King’s chair?”

“Yepperoni.”

“W-wh…why?” Trey asked incredulously. 

There were three special chairs in storage, alongside the normal ones brought out for parties and ceremonies.

One was called the Throne, a seat specially meant for the housewarden. It was created in the image of the Queen of Heart’s own throne and was named as such. It was large and dwarfed the person sitting in it, unless you were Riddle with his commanding presence. 

The second was a small, but ornately decorated chair wrapped in gold roses and vines, though it matched the other chairs more closely than the Throne. It was reserved for special guests and mostly was used for visiting faculty and housewardens from other dorms. The third was a rare sight for most Heartslabyul students, some even made it their entire academic career without seeing it. 

The King’s chair was a much smaller throne, rather lovely and almost demure, much like the king it was based on. It matched the Throne like a delicate teacup with its ornate china teapot. 

Like roses and baby’s breath. Like the sun and moon. Like rain and an umbrella. Like the stars and the night sky—well, you get it.

“To be totally honest with you, I’m not sure either.” Cater sighed, picking at his cheek as he looked off to the side. “I saw someone with Riddle when he first came into the dorm, super red-faced too. They’re sitting in the lounge A-T-M, he said to have the ADeuce pair to hang out with them.”

Trey furrowed his eyebrows in confusion, looking to his right, where the pair were bickering over the table settings. 

“Really? For a guest that requires us to take out the King’s chair, they’re pretty rowdy to be hosts, he say why?”

“Well, our mystery ‘King’,” Cater emphasized the king with air quotes, “was carrying Grim, who seemed all tuckered out…now that I really think about it…”

Cater started typing away at his phone and brought up a picture, leaning into Trey’s side to show a sneaky snapshot of a person in the lounge. 

“They look a LOT like (Name), see?”

Trey adjusted his glasses, squinting at the image of a person on their lounge couch. Indeed, the person in the picture looked eerily like (Name), from the hair to their eyes to the shape of their nose. Just older, with longer hair tied into a low bun and a deep red, simple suit and a pair of black, suede ankle boots on their person. 

“Woah…Cater you don’t think…maybe their sibling or something also got summoned here too?”

Cater looked around, like he was watching out for someone, before leaning in to whisper to Trey like an old woman with gossip. 

“I heard there were six different people summoned earlier today. And that Grimmy got (Name) into some sort of trouble and now they’re missing! Malleus is like, tooootally freaked out according to Lils, and Grimmy’s been sobbing into that person’s arms since he got here.”            

A wave of concern and sympathy for the little direbeast waved over Trey as he rubbed the back of his neck.

“Oh man, poor (Name). Poor Grim, maybe that’s why Riddle wants the two to go host them?”

“Yeah, to help calm Grimmy-Boy down, probably. I’m gonna go tell them to head over and—”

“Wait, what about Grim? We heard that something happened to (Name), but no one’s telling us anything!” 

Ace and Deuce ran up to them, the former hiding his worry by crossing his arms, though he still bit on his lip. Deuce on the other hand was clearly distressed, fidgeting with his hands as he spoke. 

“Everyone just keeps telling us that Riddle wants us in the lounge, but won’t say anything about (Name)!” Deuce started waving his hands as he spoke in rapidly increasing panic. “They haven’t answered any of our texts, we heard that there was an explosion in the classroom they were at. Is Grim with them?”

Trey placed a hand on Deuce’s shoulders, giving the underclassmen a reassuring squeeze on his shoulders. 

“Hey, calm down. We don’t know anything, but Riddle might, he brought Grim with him a little while ago.” He decided to leave out the mention of your look-alike as he continued. 

“He’ll be here soon, for now finish up what you were doing and then head to the lounge to check in on Grim, alright?”

Ace opened his mouth to retort, but then closed it, huffing and nodding as he tugged Deuce along to finish their original tasks. 

Trey sighed, adjusting his glasses as he turned back to Cater. 

“We should also get our stuff done, I’m going to take a small group with me to try and get some food and tea going so that I can focus on the cake. Did you get someone to grab the chair?”

Cater smiled, bringing his fingers up in a peace sign up to his eye as he winked. 

“Yessirrrrr! I sent a few clones of mine to get the rest of the tables and chairs, I’ll help everyone finish up!” 

He paused, eyes widening as he looked behind Trey and cringed. 

“Oop, Riddle’s coming this way, and he does NOT look very slay.”

Trey raised a brow and turned around, blinking at the site of an unusually disheveled Riddle, well disheveled for him. 

His crown was starting to slip off his head, the train of his cloak was all twisted as it dragged behind him, even his tie was slightly skewed off his neck. 

“Riddle! Are you okay? You’re not usually so frazzled.”

Riddle cringed, cheeks red from embarrassment, as he adjusted his uniform. 

“My apologies, this is unbecoming of a housewarden, but there’s been a bit of a—” Riddle thinned his lips as he pondered what to say. “—let’s say an event. We have a very important guest of honor, and it’s of the utmost importance that this unbirthday party is perfect!”

The short housewarden looked around, spotting Ace and Deuce as they threw their paint brushes haphazardly into empty cans and rushed past the group to the lounge. 

“Cater, I presume you sent them to entertain our guest I mentioned?”

Cater nodded and gave Riddle a thumbs up. “Yep! Kinda confused about why our favorite troublemakers are going though, wouldn’t it totes better if maybe me or Trey go instead? I’m like, such a good host!”

Riddle shook his head, sighing as he crossed his arms. 

“No, trust me. They’re the best pair for our guest. And…” Riddle turned red again, looking around towards the gardens. “You got the King’s chair out of storage, yes?”

Nodding, Cater shared another look with Trey before the green haired man gingerly asked, “About that, the King’s chair is only for a housewarden’s partner. You of all people know that, so why are we taking it out for a guest…”

Trey paused, blinking in astonishment as Cater did the same. Riddle was turning red once again, all the way down to his neck, as his two hairpieces stood straight up. However, he didn’t look angry, not at all.

Riddle looked embarrassed, flustered even, especially at the mention of a partner. 

“That’s exactly why it’s being brought out, though it’s a bit complicated…”

Riddle had left you in the lounge a while ago, stumbling over his words and cheeks red as he asked you to wait until he sent someone for you. It was awfully cute, you hadn’t seen your husband get so shy around you since you first started dating.

It probably didn’t help that you kept cooing over him as you walked over to the Hall of Mirrors, making the other ‘Yous’ and the housewardens give you two looks. 

Mostly amused ones, though you think the other students were waiting for Riddle to blow up in anger.

Now that Riddle had left you, muttering about needing to get dressed and check on the garden, you were focused on the little creature on your lap. 

Grim was almost catatonic, ears drooping down as he let out a whine. He leaned into your hand though as you scratched behind his ears, his favorite spot, despite any denials about it.

“…Hey (Na)—um—Tart?”

You looked down, titling your head at Grim and giving him a reassuring smile. 

“Yes Grim?”

Sitting up in your lap, Grim fiddled with the gem on his collar, it looked a bit cloudy from the blot he accumulated earlier, though it was fading out. 

“What was it like when you came here? Did it feel weird when the cracks started growing?”

You knew he was actually asking if it hurt. Based on what Riddle was saying when walking over to the dorm, the younger you was screaming in pain. 

“A…bit. I think I was more shocked than anything. But I’m alright, and I’m sure (Name) is too.” 

You lied smoothly, and the little guy relaxed a bit, leaning against your chest as he murmured to himself. 

“Hmm? What was that?”

“...I’m kinda hungry…”

You snorted, ruffling Grim’s fur as you stood up and moved your arm to let him crawl up your shoulder. It was a bit nostalgic, it had been a few years since he’d been small enough for you to hold and carry again. 

“Let’s get some food then, I’m sure we can sneak a little snack from the kitchen!”

Grim smiled and purred, vibrating against your shoulder as he slumped over like a potato sack. It had been years since you’d been in Heartslabyul, but from all the time you'd previously spend with your husband here, you knew it like the back of your hand.

The halls were winding and trippy, for lack of a better word, but once you got the hang of it, walking through them was a breeze. 

It did smell like the kitchen was being used, a sweet, familiar smell of fruits and sugar wafting in the air. It made you want to drool, like a cartoon character floating to a pie. 

“Hmm, Trey’s baking~ Ugh, I haven’t had it in so long!”

You pouted, making Grim tilt his head and purr in confusion,

“Whaddya mean? We don’t get Trey’s treats anymore in the future? Myah! I can’t have that!”

A soft chuckle left you as you two peeked over the entryway to the kitchen. It looked empty, but the oven light was on, accompanied by a sweet smell of vanilla. The other entry led to the halls connected to the patio and gardens, and you could just make out the sounds of students running around. No doubt preparing a surprise unbirthday party. 

“No, no Grim, I’m exaggerating. We visit the bakery every Sunday morning for some tea and pastries. It’s like a little tradition for us!” 

You carefully tiptoed in, mouth watering as you eyed the cake slowly rising in the oven. There were strawberries on the counter, half cut and half still whole, like someone left midway through baking. Based on the heavy whipping cream and sugar alongside it, you suspected that Trey was baking a strawberry shortcake.

He wouldn’t miss a single strawberry, right?

Your husband’s voice was ringing in your ears as you plucked one of the berries and rapidly backed away, taking half of it in a bite and offering the other half to Grim, who swallowed it whole gleefully. 

Riddle would be chastising you right now if he were here. Angrily wagging a finger at you as he went on and on about how rude and unsanitary it was to take an ingredient from the kitchen. He’d huff as you smile at him and offer a kiss as an apology, teasingly offering a taste of strawberry from your lips. 

If your husband was here, you’d do just that. But you don’t know where he is, if he’s alone, if he’s safe. Really, though, you shouldn’t worry, Riddle had always been more than capable of taking care of himself. 

But what if he was hurt? Riddle was an excellent mage with powerful magic at his disposal, even more so as an adult, he’d be fine. What if he’s lost, completely isolated from anyone or anything? If there’s a will, there is a way, and Riddle was much more stubborn than he liked to admit. What if you don’t find your way back to him? Can you really trust Crowley when he never found you a way home?

You swallowed tightly at the thought, staring down at your hands and fiddling with the gold ring on your left ring finger. It was a ruby, with leaf motifs on the crown and band, making it look like a rose. A lovely red that reminded you of Riddle. 

“I hope he’s okay…” Grim turned his head at you and let out a curious ‘mrrph?’ as you smiled at him. “Riddle, my Riddle I mean. I’m sure he is, he might even be with your (Name)!” 

Grim looked reassured with that thought, mindlessly kneading into your shoulder. 

“Yeah. Yeah, they probably are.”

Both of you sighed as you leaned against the kitchen island, staring off into nothing in particular. The sounds of students rambling, the stomps of running, the smell of strawberries and roses. It was all so nostalgic. 

You think you could even hear the sounds of Ace and Deuce arguing, just like they did back then, and just like they still do now.

… Actually, now that you thought about it, their voices were getting closer and closer, footsteps against the tile floors growing louder as the two burst into the other entrance of the kitchen. 

“Move Deuce! You’re getting in the way—”

“—No, you move! You and your big as—big dumb mouth will only stress Grim out!”

“YOU’RE CUSSING! I’M TELLING RIDDLE AND—”

Ace stopped and stared at you, almost comically so, like a cartoon character as Deuce bumped into him. The latter gave Ace a stink eye before following his line of sight and similarly giving you a bulging-eyed stare. 

“W-wha—you—Grim—who—”

“WAAAH! ACE! DEUCE!” Grim cried out, bolting from your shoulder to jump into Ace’s arms. You winced as his rear claws slightly dug through your clothes into your skin as you used you as a catapult, but looked at your best friends’ young selves. 

Deuce stammered over his words, narrowing his gaze as Ace clicked his tongue at the cat-sized beast sniffling into his arms. 

“Ace…” Grim’s voice was shuddering and whiny as he dug his head into the ginger’s chest. “I messed up…(Naaame)...”

His eyebrows and eyes just very so slightly softened at the sight. Ace was always much softer than he liked to admit, just with your little group of four, though. Still was. 

“Grim…what’s going on bud? Where’s (Name)? And who’s the lookalike?” Deuce gave a firm nod in agreement to Ace’s questions. “Just tell us what you did.”

His ears flattened down against his head, Grim curling himself even smaller into Ace’s arms as he mumbled. 

“I messed up a spell again…(Name) got…” Grim let out a whimper. Of guilt or fear of disappointment again, perhaps both. “(Name) got caught in it.”

Both Ace and Deuce tensed as they shared a look, then glanced at you. Then back at each other. Then back down at Grim. 

“Grim…is that person…”

“Did you…”

You let out a sigh of relief that the pair figured it out so quickly. It spared you of an awkward explanation—

“Did you make them old???”

“I am not old!!!” You scoffed, indigent, as you crossed your arms and tapped your foot like a parent scolding a kid might. “I am only in my twenties, thank you very much!”

Ace pointed a finger at you, still cradling Grim in the other, and smirked. 

“Where in your twenties? Cause early is fine, but middle and late is pushing it!”

“Middle and late twenties is not old, Ace! It is still very much young, thank you very much—wait, why am I arguing with you on this? You don’t even have a fully developed frontal lobe yet!”

“And you do? So how old does that make you then?”

You closed your mouth as quickly as you opened it, noticing Ace’s smug look, huffing and rolling your eyes.

“I’m not saying! You know it’s rude to ask someone their age!”

Deuce looked between you two with wide eyes, cringing as Ace pointed a finger at you triumphantly. 

“AHA! That’s just another way to say you’re old!” Ace looked down at Grim and giggled as he ruffled the top of his head. “Aw Grim, you just aged (Name) up a couple of years! I’m sure Professor Crewel can make a point to make them normal, I don’t know why you’re crying—”

“They’re not my (Name)!” Grim cried out, though he sounded more frustrated by now, there were still remnants of tears in his eyes and wet streaks down his furry cheeks. “That’s one of the different (Names).”

“Different—”

“—(Names)?”

The two gave the other a look as they finished each other’s sentence, annoyed and embarrassed at the same time. You were reminded just how much they pretended to dislike each other at this age, the stark contrast from how they were back home was almost amusing. You couldn’t wait to tease them about it. 

“Maybe we should sit down and talk. I’m sure the others still need some more time to set up the party, so I can catch you up.”

Riddle’s left eye twitched as he eyed the bunches of roses. There were the usual painted roses to his left, plain red roses in the middle, and plain white on the right. 

“Rule 469 states that we should decorate using both red and white roses for new friends, but would…they…count as a new friend?”

Cater gave a confused hum and twirled a piece of hair around his finger as he gave it some thought. 

“Hmm…To be totes for real, I’m not super sure Riddle. I mean, technically we know (Name), so they aren’t a new friend. But Tart isn’t exactly our (Name), so like, they could really be way different from what we’re used to.”

Cater sighed, as did Riddle, who crossed his arms as he shook his head in frustration. 

“But they’re rather—” He chose to ignore how Cater had to withhold an amused smile at the way Riddle blushed. “—familiar with me. I fear it might offend them as they’re—”

Riddle turned even redder, the words, ‘my spouse’ stuck in his throat like a sugar cube that didn’t fully dissolve into his tea. 

So sweet and pleasant on his tongue, and yet he couldn’t bring himself to actually say it out loud.

It was pathetic. Absolutely and utterly pathetic at how just the thought of you being his spouse made his heart jump from his chest. You’d given him such a sweet smile, spoken to him in a giddy but fond tone back in the classroom, it made him both want to throw up and melt. 

“M-my—ahem—my spouse. And since we’re taking the King’s chair out of storage for them, perhaps it would be more fitting to stick with the painted roses.”

Cater nodded in agreement and gave Riddle a wink. 

“Sure thing Rids! I’ll let everyone know and get the last decorations all set! Why don’t you check on Trey back in the kitchen, he was pretty worried about the treats earlier.”

Really, he meant, “Go talk to Trey and relax.” Riddle was more than aware that he’d been out of character since arriving with you, though he sent you off into the lounge and avoided the general building since. It wasn’t as if he’d been avoiding you, Riddle admitted to himself that he was incredibly curious. 

It’s just…well…he knew himself well enough that he could admit he was fond of you. And it wasn’t every day that he could get a peek into a future that could quite literally speak back to him in full sentences. If normal divination spells worked like that, then reading tea leaves and crystal balls would be for naught.

“Yes, I should see how Trey is doing, will you have the rest of the decorations and arrangements complete by noon?”

Cater gave him a thumbs up and turned on his heel towards the group of students frantically running around the garden, doing their best to prepare.

Riddle felt bad, he truly did. He’d made it a point to schedule all the unbirthday parties for the year by orientation so that he could have all the incoming freshmen prepared. Not only was it more efficient this way, it meant no one could use the excuse of “I didn’t know!” to skip out on work or the party itself. 

But it wouldn’t be appropriate to have the future version of his spouse (he both loved and hated how warm the thought made him feel) visit the dorm and not be honored as a guest. 

Still, he wasn’t sure just how to approach you. Would it be better to be respectful and chaste? Perhaps he should treat you how he’d normally do so, but if this version of you was his spouse, would you be expecting more…affection?

You’d practically tackled him back at the classroom, clinging to him like you’d been together for ages. 

He supposed that for the (Name) sitting in the lounge at this moment, that was a fact of life. Riddle wasn’t stupid, he saw the ruby ring on your finger—a Roseheart family heirloom—and he knew that he’d never dare ask his mother for it unless he’d been with you for years. 

Frankly, he’s surprised that his mother actually approved of the union. In a different time, yes, but still. Riddle does briefly consider that his father or even his grandparents could have also given their blessings. 

No. Not even over her own dead body would his mother allow anything related to him to happen without her approval. He’s positive she would crawl out from the afterlife, nails digging into the crust of the earth where her grave laid if she so much as sensed that something was happening without her. 

Riddle suppressed a shudder at the thought as he stepped into the kitchen, where Trey and a few dorm members were shuffling between each other. The sounds of whisks against metal bowls, a knife on a cutting board, and the sweet smell of vanilla made him relax. 

Something familiar, something running smoothly, something that wouldn’t give him a massive migraine. 

“Almost cool enough. Hey, when you’re done with the whipped cream, bring it over so I can start layering—oh, Riddle.”

Trey had been glaring at the cakes in front of him with mild annoyance, as if he could will them to cool down faster on the wire racks, before noticing Riddle and giving him a soft smile.

“I think we’ll manage to have the cakes done half past twelve, thankfully I had some premade tarts and pastries already prepared for the croquette tournament.” He sighed and rubbed the back of his head. “I’ll just have to make some more next week.”

Riddle felt guilt build up in the back of his throat as he nodded. 

“I appreciate you working so quickly on this. Please forgive the additional stress, it’s not everyday we have such…an important guest.”

“Hey Housewarden!” A rabbit beastman with white, ringlet curls and red eyes snuck up behind Trey and peered at Riddle with a curious smile. “That guest wouldn’t happen to be the person in the lounge with Ace and Deuce, would they?”

Relief flooded his system, as despite how much trouble the pair was, Riddle knew just how close they were to you. 

“Yes, Timmy, that’s correct. I assume they’re comfortable and are being treated well?”

The beastman hesitated before nodding. 

“I mean, I think so? They’d been having a squabble a bit ago, but they were also laughing, so I think it’s all in good fun.”

A mischievous smile crossed Timmy’s as cooed out, “Plus, they’ve been talking an awful lot about you Housewarden. Didn’t think you were into older—oof!”

A swift elbow from Trey into his stomach made the other keel over and groan in pain. Riddle felt the tale-tell heat of rage grow under his skin as he gave a stern glare to the rabbit. 

“If you have time to eavesdrop on others' conversations, then perhaps you don’t have enough tasks to keep you occupied. Take the dishes that are ready and get the tables set up, remember what happens to rabbits if Rule 628 is broken!”

Despite Trey’s rather soft scolding, the other man turned pale and nodded, swiftly grabbing a tray of scones and tea before rushing off. The green-haired man nodded at the others in the kitchen as well, who followed suit with the rest of the dishes, leaving the two of them alone. 

“...Thank you, Trey. I’d hate for our guest to be greeted with a collared guest at a party in their honor.”

Trey simply reached for the now abandoned bowl of whipped cream, eyeing the consistency before deeming it sufficient for use as he spread it on top of the cakes.

“Yeah, our ‘guest’ who you’ve been avoiding since you arrived, Riddle.”

RIddle stiffened, huffing as he turned his look away from Trey’s critical gaze. 

“I’ve been checking in on everyone, I’m sure it’s stressful for everyone to have to prepare for an unbirthday party that wasn’t meant to happen for weeks. I sent Ace and Deuce to host them for the time being, but I fail to see what is wrong with that!”

“Yes, but Riddle.” The layers were coming together nicely as cut strawberries were gently placed in the whipped cream. 

“You had us bring out the King’s chair. You spent 30 full minutes agonizing with me over the right tea and cake to serve. And another 10 with Cater on the roses, when normally you’d already have these details set. You know (Name), even if this is a different version of them, they won’t be so worried about the little details.”

Riddle pinched the bridge of his nose and squeezed his eyes shut, sighing heavily. 

“I know. I do, I really do. It’s just…”

Trey’s eyes were still focused on decorating the cake in front of him, but he nodded, giving Riddle a confirmation that he was listening. 

“How in the world am I meant to properly respond to them? All the rules of etiquette are a blurred line with them!”

Riddle felt a blush coming on again as he thought about the way you hugged him against your chest, your hands on his cheeks, the loving smile. He’d only had dreams about those sorts of things, and now they were reality. 

“Riddle, if Tart is making you uncomfortable, I’m sure you could speak to them and explain.”

Trey turned back to face Riddle, his face full of concern. 

“You don’t know them like that, you don’t have to pretend to like it for their sake.”

He’s always hated how easily his face got red. He hated how silly it made him look when he was angry, but this was worse somehow. 

“That’s not exactly…” Riddle looked up at Trey and gave him an embarrassed cringe. “I don’t dislike their familiarity, Trey. It’s just, how am I supposed to interact with them?”

A bit of silence stretched over the two as Trey stared at Riddle with an unreadable expression. The lack of emotions on his face made Riddle uncomfortable, it was unlike Trey. 

“Riddle, do you…” Trey finally gave Riddle a teasing smile. “Do you fancy (Name)? Is that what has you all distracted?”

Riddle did not appreciate the snorts that started escaping Trey as the other covered his grin.

“Trey. Do not test me at this time. I’m not in the mood.”

“Please, you’re not gonna collar me Riddle, we both know that. Besides, it’s sweet.” Trey’s smile grew as he fondly continued. “Now that I think about it, you’re kind of reminding me of how my little brother acted when he got a crush on a girl at school. It’s a normal thing, you know?”

Riddle raised a brow at Trey, deciding to rest his elbows on the kitchen island and cover his face with his hands, lest someone walk in and see the state of him. 

“Please don’t compare me to a child, and this is certainly not the same. My future spouse is sitting a few rooms away, wearing a family heirloom as a ring, I think I deserve a bit of grace here…”

He could feel Trey pat Riddle on the back, soothingly rubbing him. Riddle wonders if Trey did this with his siblings too?

“It wasn’t just me either, Trey. You heard there were 6 versions of them in total, yes?”

“Yeah, I did.”

“Six versions of the (Name) we know,” He almost uttered out ‘and love’ before catching himself. “And of those six, only one is familiar with me.”

One possibility, and five failures. Riddle hates that he didn’t even realize that the other five also fancied you. In hindsight, they had to, they’ve all been sweet on you in different ways. Too stuck in his own head and feelings to realize, Riddle hated the pangs of jealousy in his chest at the other versions of you clinging to the others. 

“Well, why don’t you talk to them? Who knows, maybe you’ll get a hint on wooing our (Name)!”

“Or they can tell you how you got together!”

The two jumped in surprise as Cater poked his head into the kitchen, eyes sparkling in excitement. 

“How long were you there? It’s rude to listen to others' conversations.” Riddle crossed his arms, unamused at Cater avoiding eye-contact.

“Aw Rids, that’s not important. What’s totes important here is taking advantage of a huuuge opportunity! You literally have a chance to totally make sure that you get with (Name) and that I win my bet!”

Riddle and Trey stared at Cater, one baffled and the other looking as if he aged 30 years. 

“Cater, please don’t tell me that you made a bet on Riddle’s love life.”

“I didn’t make a bet on Riddle’s love life!” Cater paused, glancing between the two before chirping, “But I diiiid make a bet on (Name’s) love life! And I have a good chunk of money on our very own housewarden and them getting together—woah woah woah, hey!”

Putting his hands up in defense and scrambling across the room to put the island between a reddening Riddle and him, Cater defended himself. 

“We totally have a great opportunity, Riddle! You really like (Name), we can tell.”

Riddle paused, thinning his lips as he asked, “...Is it that obvious?”

“Incredibly/Very much so.” Both Cater and Trey responded much faster than Riddle liked, before the former smiled and gave a suggestion. 

“Now, obviously you two get together in a possible future, but as you know, part of divination is using magic to get information and use that to your advantage. You don’t think I’m only good at astrology for aesthetics, do you?”

Cater winked at Riddle with a smirk as he glanced at his phone and started typing away. 

“So, why don’t I have our favorite little pair try to scope out some information while we finish setting up the party, then you and I can talk about how to make sure that we use that to our advantage?”

“You could also just ask.”

An unholy sounding yelp left Cater’s mouth as he, along with Riddle and Trey, jumped at the sound of your voice. 

You strolled into the kitchen, Grim on your shoulders, while Ace and Deuce followed. 

“Heya guys! How much longer until we can get the party started?” Ace grinned, eyeing the near finished cake behind Trey. “I’m starvin’ ya know!”

“Tsk—Rule 739, guests may only begin feasting once the Queen and her King have completed their third and a half course of tea, you should know that Ace.” 

Riddle shut his mouth as soon as he’d opened it, as you’d beaten him to the punch. Ace’s face soured as he deflated and wrinkled his nose at you. 

“Ew. When you told us you’d married the Housewarden in the future, I didn’t think it’d meant you’d become Housewarden 2.0.”

You let out a melodious laugh, eyes crinkling at their corners as you replied, “Well, I don’t know about that, I don’t think anyone could compete with Riddle’s memory. My Riddle has our anniversary date memorized down to the minute, believe it or not.”

From the corner of his eyes, Riddle noticed Trey and Cater’s expressions. Trey had his head tilted, eyeing you curiously. Cater on the other hand was much more excited, holding his phone up to cover the lower half of his face. He’s fairly sure that Cater mouthed out, ‘cute’ at you.

Riddle made eye contact with you as your eyes softened at the sight of what he had to assume were red cheeks. He’s been ever so awfully red today, hasn’t he?

“Oh Riddle my dear, are you alright? Ever since I’ve been here, you’ve been nothing but shades of pinks and reds. We don’t have to have the unbirthday party if it’s causing stress—”

“Nonsense!” Riddle barked, making everyone but you jump. “The Queen of Hearts welcomed but a small child to her unbirthday party with open arms, why shouldn’t I do the same with someone as important as you Tart?”

With a stomp of his staff on the ground, the four other Heartslabyul students stood straight at attention, awaiting Riddle’s orders. 

“Ace. Deuce. Go see to it that the garden has been tended to, I want to see it in pristine condition!”

“Yes Housewarden!”

The pair gave a brief bow of their heads before running off towards the garden. Riddle turned to Cater next, who inclined his head and smiled. 

“Yes Housewarden?”

Riddle turned to him and let out a command, “Go ensure that all my card soldiers have their uniforms in perfect condition. I will not have a single student in my dorm with so much as a rose pin out of place! Understood?”

“Aye-aye! I’m to it!”

Cater gave another glance at you before grinning and skipping off, leaving just Trey, who was giving a small smile to Riddle. 

“I can continue here, once the others return from taking out the tea and pastries, I’ll have them help me finish up the rest of the food. We should be ready to hold the party by one o'clock otherwise.”

“Good. Very good, then.” Riddle let out a huff, eyeing Grim’s hungry stare at the various bowls of sweetened mixtures and fruits. “Grim, I trust that you remember Rule 89, yes?”

Grim let out soft, kitten-like growls and mumbled something under his breath, which made you smile and chuckle. You leaned in to whisper something into his ear, which made Grim perk up and give you a quizzical look. 

“Hm? I guess I can, but then I can’t eat Trey’s baking!” Grim whined, his ears dropping down. 

“Aw, well, I’m sure we can save you a slice of cake for later, and even a tart.” You glanced at Riddle and pleaded, “Can’t we Riddle? Let’s save him a few treats so he can go check in on the others, make sure they’re setting in with the other dorms?”

Riddle blinked at you two for a few moments, before understanding washed over him. The other (Names) in the dorms, it makes sense. They would probably want to check in on Grim as well, especially after his sobbing fit from Malleus’s chastisement back in the classroom.

“Of course, Trey will ensure that Grim has something left to look forward to on his return.”

Riddle gave a nod to Trey who nodded back, glancing back at you and staring for a moment. 

“Tart is what you’re going by, right?”

You hummed in affirmation, walking towards the two of them, hands fidgeting with an old black and white striped fabric tied to one of your belt straps. It looked rather tattered, with one end hanging lower than the other, a pin holding it down. 

“Yes, I thought it would be cute since Riddle has always loved tarts so much! You know, we actually only had a small cake for us to cut into at our wedding, instead we served a bunch of fruit tarts as dessert!” 

The beaming smile on your face as you reminisced, a romantic and far-off look in your eyes alongside it. You turned your attention to Riddle and added, “You made the suggestion, you know, despite tradition. Everyone else was surprised at the reception.”

“Did I really?” Riddle sputtered, positively baffled at the idea. Yes, he liked tarts, but he couldn’t imagine that he would allow himself to stray from rules and tradition. Yes he was less strict now, but to completely abandon them was out of the question!

You laughed, now in front of him and eyeing his uniform. “Don’t be too surprised, I pushed for you to change at least one thing up about the wedding, everything else was pretty much your traditional Rosarian wedding.”

Pursing your lips, you reached for Riddle, who hesitantly backed away. He eyed you, noticing the falter in your smile, before leaning back in. He breathed in a deep breath as you adjusted his collar and tie, wiping down the front of his coat and tending to his cloak. 

You were wearing some sort of cologne or perfume that smelled like strawberries and roses. 

“Sorry, I used to double-check your uniform for you.” You mumbled under your breath, backing away to eye his appearance until you were satisfied. “Perfect as always, I just like to feel useful sometimes.”

Trey cleared his throat, awkwardly rubbing the back of his head as if he was interrupting something. 

“Housewarden, perhaps you can take them for a tour through the maze? It seems like it’s been a while since they’ve been to the school. I can come for you when the party is ready.”

“Ah, of course, wonderful idea Trey. Shall we, (Na—) Tart?” Riddle cleared his throat, gesturing to the exit with an open hand. Before he could react you gingerly looped your left arm with his right and hooked it close to you, effectively trapping his arm to your body. 

“That would be nice, let’s go!” Practically dragging Riddle with you, you waved with your free hand behind you and chirped. “We’ll see you in a bit Trey!”

Riddle let out a yelp as he tripped over his feet, heels clicking against the tile as you made your way out, passing the tea garden into the maze, only slowing once the sounds of students talking and plates clinking were far away. 

Why was he allowing you to drag him around like this? This couldn’t possibly be a habit of yours, there’s no way he’d allow it! Right?

Right?

No, he was just out of sorts from the peculiarity of it all. Your presence would throw anyone in for a tizzy, he’s sure the other housewardens are also experiencing…distress?

Was he distressed? No, Riddle doesn’t think so. Glancing up at you, a peaceful smile on your face as you two finally took a leisurely pace, he didn’t think he was distressed. 

He actually felt a bit of content, happy even, now that it was just the two of you and no other prying eyes. Riddle took a look at your hands wrapped around his arm, once again eyeing the ring on your finger, and let himself smile. 

“Well? Are you going to ask?”

Riddle let out a confused hum as he looked back up at your face, the teasing smile on your lips making him nervous once again. 

“Ask? Ask you what?”

You unwrapped your left hand from his arm and presented it in front of you two, wagging your ring finger, making the ruby glitter in the sun, as you sang, “Ask how this happened~ Cater doesn’t often give you advice, you know?”

A soft ‘ah’ sound left Riddle as he swallowed a lump in his throat, the ring’s glitter and shine calling for him, mocking him. 

Just how did he manage to give you that ring?

“Yes, well. I s-suppose I am a bit curious. It’s no small feat that you’re wearing a family heirloom, I imagine that we c-courted for quite a few years before marriage was even on the table.”

Riddle managed to stammer out his words, gesturing down a pathway that kept you two close to the eastern side of the maze, where it would be easier to get back to the tea garden. 

“Ah, yes. Since the end of my first and your second year.” A soft sigh left your mouth as you frowned. “We got married a few years after you were appointed to the Magistrates’ Court, though this ring isn’t your family’s ring.”

“What?” Riddle puzzled, taking a closer look at your ring with confusion. “No, that can’t be. I’ve seen the ring, it has the—”

“Rosehearts’ family crest built into it? I know. You were very proud when you proposed to me, telling me about how you had it commissioned to be an exact replica, a new heirloom for us to pass down ourselves.”

You gave Riddle a grin and winked. 

“You could’ve had the goldsmith and jeweler make something new, but I’m pretty sure you had this made to spite your mother since she wouldn’t give you the original.” 

Riddle scoffed in disbelief, staring up at you in wonder. Him? Spite his mother? He knew now that her treatment of him growing up was far from ideal, but it was hard to imagine him deliberately spiting her—wait.

“Did you say court? The Magistrates’ Court?!” Riddle questioned, finally reaching an end of the maze with a stone bench to sit on. As he led you to it to sit, he continued. 

“I was appointed to the court? Really?”

“Oh yes! It’s part of the reason dear Louise Rosehearts hated me and refused to give you her blessing.” You clicked your tongue, drumming your fingers against your thigh. 

“When you decided to pursue law instead of medicine for your fourth year internship, she was distraught. Her plans for you to become a great magical doctor all came tumbling down. Ugh…”

You winkled your nose in distaste, giving Riddle a look and smirking. 

“Blame me for it. Said I was a baaaad influence on her precious son, probably didn’t help that there are no records of me existing before NRC.”

Riddle furrowed his brows as he clenched his fists in his lap, staring at you as you fidgeted with the striped cloth he’d noticed earlier. He could finally see the pin clearly now, an old, golden crown that needed to be polished, as its shine was dulled from age.

“Is that my…”

“Your tie? Yes, it is.” You coaxed another flush of red to his cheeks as you curled a finger under his chin with a playful look. “You gave it to me when you first asked to court me. Tied it around my collar when I agreed, like you were staking a claim.”

“Why, I would never! That’s certainly a claim!” Riddle waved off your finger with an exasperated scoff, though the thought of you still wearing the tie years after being together was satisfying in a way. 

“I’m not some mongrel that needs to use a tie to mark someone as mine, my words and intentions are just enough!” 

Riddle’s voice rose. He was a bit offended that some version of himself out there would do such a crass thing, like a cat rubbing itself on its belongings. Then again, there was a certain beastman who also had a version of you, so perhaps his other him had his reasonings. 

“Oh Riddle, of course they are, I’m just teasing.” You waved your hands, frowning. “I’m sorry, my darling, I’m just used to bantering with my husband. Years of being together, and I’m forgetting that you don’t know me like that, do you?”

You had such a sad look on your face, it made Riddle melt into a puddle and stutter over his words. 

“Well I—it’s just that—it’s not like we aren’t friends at least—I just, it’s just—how do we get together again?”

The sad look turned into a much happier one, nostalgic almost, as you smiled and clasped your hands together as you excitedly gasped. 

“Oh, like I said, you asked to court me at the end of the year, but we’d been sort of, hm, tiptoeing the line ever since the beginning of the year. After your…well, you know.”

Overblot. Riddle shifted uncomfortably in his seat at the thought. That didn’t make sense though, even if he helped you with the issues that cropped up during the Spelldrive tournament and Leona’s own overblot, you and he hadn’t exactly been very close. 

He’s only recently noted his affection for you.

“Mmhm, you and I spent a lot of time together, you helped me catch up with the curriculum, would invite me over to tea parties a whole lot, and your dream even had me—oh…”

You paused, noticing Riddle’s increasing confusion at your words. Instead you cleared your throat and noted, “Maybe I’m saying too much, I don’t want to reveal too much of the future anyways.” 

“Oh. Right, I see.” He deflated, immediately straining up and taking a deep breath. “I’d rather win over you with my own efforts in any case. I have confidence in my abilities.”

Riddle closed his eyes and nodded to himself in satisfaction. You said that in your time you and your version of him began courting at the end of this school year, so he still had time. 

Marriage hm? It was a pleasant thought, very much so. Various ideas of just how to ensure it would happen swam through his mind, until your hands on his cheek brought him back to the present. 

Turning his head to look at you, Riddle felt his face heat up as you leaned closure, your other hand brushing away his hair from his forehead. A chaste, sweet kiss was placed on his forehead as you giggled against the skin. He’s positive the red in his face was now falling down his neck to the rest of the body. 

“I-I say! That’s quite inappropriate! I’m not—”

“My Riddle, yes I know. But still.” Leaning back, your hands still cradling his face, you rebutted. 

“I know him, so I know you a bit too. Don’t think too much, my dearest, just let whatever relationship you have with your (Name) progress naturally. I can’t say for sure it will turn out the way you want, but they’ll still cherish you regardless. Though, I obviously have a bias on whom they should choose.”

You giggled, pulling Riddle close again to press a kiss to the crown of his head, making him left out a high-pitched squeak. 

“O-of course.” Riddle waved your hands off him, fighting back an embarrassed smile that threatened to grow on his lips. Decorum can wait, just for a bit. “I think I can hear Trey call for us. I would like to hear more about the future though, I’m having a hard time believing I’d ever spite my mother over anything, rather than just cut her out.”

Riddle smiled as you let out a cackle, eyes squinting in mirth as you took his arm once again, having it offered to you this time. 

“Oh trust me, Riddle, when you get older, you’d be surprised just how catty you can be.”

comments and reblogs appreciated 🩷

[fleuriion]

✦ Chiming Bell ノ MODERN! High school hcs with the Chrysos Heir because I love them so much ⸝⸝ gn reader ⸝⸝ wc: 1780 ✦ Note ; The usual grammar error and spelling mistakes warning ⸝⸝ if they come across as ooc then I apologize because I'm still not very confident in my ability of writing HSR characters haha ⸝⸝ This can be interpreted as both romantic and platonic as your liking! ⸝⸝ will probably edit out some mistakes ⸝⸝ I'm very sorry for not including Hyacine TT

♡ Phainon ⸝⸝ I feel like he's kind of a jock BUT also not a jock. Like, he's not THOSE jocks that get angry at you if you cannot catch the ball that is beaming at 1000 mph to your face. ⸝⸝ Those popular kids that are actually super nice to everyone. I feel like he doesn't judge people much and if he does dislike someone, will not rub it in their face unless they deserve to. ⸝⸝ Basically just a ray of sunshine. Definitely has Mydei as his seatmate and I just imagine Phainon walking into class greeting everyone every morning and then Mydei is just sitting there massaging his temple, wondering how he's so bright this early. ⸝⸝ While he's generally super nice, I think Phainon is also pretty mischievous though. I can already imagine him getting into some light troubles and then having to sweep the hallway as a punishment LMAO. ⸝⸝ Probably enjoys learning history and literature, he just gets super sleepy and perhaps bored in them. Decent at math but HORRIBLE at science like chemistry. Phainon comes up to Mydei as lab partner and Mydei prays the two of them don't get involved in any sorts of explosion or chemical accident /j ⸝⸝ When Phainon is pinning on you, he will 100% turn into a golden retriever. Follows you around in a non-creepy way, helps you carry stuff, probably tries tutoring you the best he could, sometimes ask to have lunch together and then drags you to the rest of his friends. ⸝⸝ Gets super shy about it and it didn't escape his friends. Also gets not bullied but teased a lot for it, when you walked past them far enough, I feel like most likely Mydei would go "holy shit is that Phainon's lover walking past by just now?!" ⸝⸝ When he announced that the two of you are dating to his friends, they would hold their pearl necklace and pretend like they're shocked (except it's so purposefully exaggerated it's hilarious wow Phainon you're so slick!) ♡ Aglaea ⸝⸝ I hc'd that the Chrysos Heir is basically akin to the Student Council in the modern world, so expect no less that Aglaea is definitely the president or at the VERY least the vice president. ⸝⸝ That one strict classmate who always looks her best and behaves the best too. Probably a class president or rep too?? Would reprimand her classmates or the other students to mind both their attire and attitude. ⸝⸝ Teacher's pet, except she's one that you can't really walk over or trample. Girl just has that aura in her for not only being smart but also beautiful?!?! (My GOAT Aglaea as always) ⸝⸝ Looks scary at first glance, but if you need her help with studying she would help say no more! That one meme that goes like "would you let me copy your homework?" "no, but I'll help you with it" ⸝⸝ This may sound pretty personal and specific but hc that she excels and enjoys public speaking. Her words and articulations are probably amazing if you get what I mean... ⸝⸝ Honestly, if she is pinning on you? Nobody would pretty much find out about it unless she personally said so. I'm sorry but Aglaea strikes off to me as the type to be super good at hiding aka slick with her feelings for someone. (Ironically for being the bearer of Mnestia's coreflame in lore lol) ⸝⸝ So when she told her friends that you two are dating, their surprise is actually real and pure. ⸝⸝ It's still noticeable though subtle tho! Aglaea will be extra mindful of you and will no doubt worry about your grades and your performance. Would help you study even if it takes time say less! ♡ Mydei

⸝⸝ Similarly to Phainon, seems like a jock but isn't too much of a jock once you get to know about him. I think it's pretty much just a first impression since he's physically well built and healthy. For someone with his looks, Mydei is a pretty quiet and calm seatmate, ones targeted by people who is just full on comical nonsense (Trailblazer for instance…. They're so stupid I love them).

⸝⸝ Seemingly messy appearance (that slightly loose collar and messily tied tie fix that rn Mydei i hate hastily tied tie and sometimes spends 5 minutes redoing it if I couldn't get it right sobs), but is actually very discipline and a pretty decent student. Also hc that he uses reading glasses.

⸝⸝ Bluddy is probably the first to arrive at class and is usually pretty punctual with a few exceptions being made. Definitely that one friend who sleeps early and wakes up early. Probably lets you copy his homework just so you can get off his ass.

⸝⸝ Excels at history, terrible at math, probably decent at chemistry??? Hear me out though, he's terrible at math and physics but he's interested in them so it's kind of a party pooper LAMFAO (self projecting). Mydei doesn't hate it, he probably just doesn't understand it.

⸝⸝ Those type of guys that people are scared of because of his appearance, but is actually good with juniors. He helps them with studying and getting the subject's concept wrapped around their head and somehow patient for a man that doesn't look like he has patience at all.

⸝⸝ When Mydei pins on you, he won't look nor act THAT much different around you. If you're a much more comical or hilarious kind of person, he endures and tolerates you more. He will offer more lending hands though; for instance, explaining things you don't understand more, willingly tutors you, sneaks gifts into your desk or locker and then softly denies it when questioned (you're not slick bro.)

⸝⸝ Mydei doesn't announce it if you two are dating, rather, his friends found out on their own by the slight flush on his face when he's around you and the way his fierce eyes seemed to simmer down a little when you're around.

♡ Castorice

⸝⸝ SUPER quiet and probably finds it hard to communicate all the time. The reason people know her is mostly because she's apart of the Student Council, but that aside, she's also super kind and nice!

⸝⸝ Hangs around Aglaea a lot and acts as her 'assistant' or similar. Also a teacher's pet except on the more mellow side and one that even the meanest of the mean doesn't have the heart to mock.

⸝⸝ She probably could be vice president.. But that's just a rough gut and because I see her as one. Also reprimands her classmates and other students to be mindful of their attire and attitude.

⸝⸝ Generally good at any subjects given, but I hc that Castorice really likes art and music classes. The atmosphere is quieter and much more peaceful that even her mind could rest a little. Definitely joins clubs like sewing club.

⸝⸝ Sometimes sleeps on recess because I see her as those super-tired looking type of people who can doze off while standing but refrains on doing so in classes. Due to this, probably picks the seat closer to the window to hide away from the lights at the center of the class.

⸝⸝ When Castorice pins on you, she will subtly get super shy around you. Sometimes stutters on her speech and is extra polite at you much to the awkwardness. Be prepared for cuteness overload!!

⸝⸝ Castorice definitely makes things for you! A small crochet plush, flower crowns, or some fake flowers that reminds her of you. Surfs into flower language to express her affection to you by making said flowers for you!

⸝⸝ Castorice would reluctantly yet shyly declares her love for you one random evening, and the rest of the Chyrsos Heir is totally NOT spying at you two from behind some bushes. ♡ Anaxa

⸝⸝ This man is canonically a professor according to the in-game lore what else do I need to say??

⸝⸝ That one smart kid who's super snarky and sarcastic. If you think Mydei is pretty sarcastic for someone, then behold Anaxagoras and his sharp yet elegant tongue that totally does not remind me of a certain doctor.

⸝⸝ He definitely no doubt enjoys subjects science related. Chemistry, physics, biology, name it. Yet nobody really dares to approach him and ask him to be their lab partner due to, again, the aura that surrounds him. You feel like you're shrinking per second you stand next to him if you don't know anything about him. Also hc that he enjoys scientific debates.

⸝⸝ He probably goes overseas to attend science olympics like a lot, and obviously comes back with victory by his side. He's probably academic rivals with Aglaea haha. I can just see them competing for the school's 1st place.

⸝⸝ Anaxa gets avoided by plenty people because of his personality, but he doesn't pay any mind nor does he care about it. After all, his only interest currently is knowledge, isn't it..?

⸝⸝ Well that's until you, who doesn't seem to be that much avoidant of him, came along to his life. Anaxa is that one person that goes deep into denial when he has feelings for someone. "NO. WDYM I HAVE FEELINGS FOR THEM. FUCK."

⸝⸝ The rest of the Chrysos Heir found out about this when one random day, Anaxa suddenly came up to Hyacine and started asking her questions related to feelings that are leaning a little bit tooooo much on the romantic side (much to his dismay and denial). Even with his denial, he found himself coming up to the pink haired girl and asking her about this… Very foreign feeling of what she described as "butterflies fluttering in his stomach" and a suspiciously big grin on her face.

⸝⸝ Like Phainon, Anaxa doesn't escape the constant teasing from the Chrysos Heir for this, mainly Aglaea. She will devilishly giggle into her fingertips and make subtle jabs at him when she talks to you; "[name], do you have just any idea how breathtaking you are?" while giving Anaxa looks to which he responded with not only a glare but a suspiciously burning pair of ear tips <3

[bizarrelovetriangel]

distance

angst with comfort. brief jealous reader/mc and jealous zayne. slightly ooc zayne just bc you know he'd always put you first no matter how hectic life can get. but just for this one, he gets a little cold...

as insecurities take over, you distance yourself from zayne and zayne realizes how empty he feels without you.

Being a doctor can be stressful. It takes a lot of energy, and Zayne, no matter how perfect he seemed, isn't an exception.

Lately, his work has been taking a lot of his time, and it's starting to take a toll on his health. You've been trying to help him to take a break and relax for a while, but it hasn't been easy.

And your relationship was put to test.

You brought him food in his home office, and it had only gone cold and untouched.

You wanted to get his mind off work for a bit, so you took him out for plushie hunting at the claw machines after dinner one night, though he only said a few words as he watched you play, eyes looking like they're ready to close at any minute.

You encouraged him to join you in bed to get some sleep, hoping to get rid of the tiredness in his eyes, and he told you to go first and he'll join you in a few minutes, only for him to take hours, when you were already in a deep sleep.

You asked him to watch a movie with you, he said he wasn't in the mood, so you ended up falling asleep on the couch all alone until the movie's end credits started rolling.

You offered to give him a massage, gentle hands squeezing the tensed muscles of his shoulders, only for him to move away and say, "I'm sorry... I just need some time alone for a while. I need to finish this."

Of course, you understood. He is a doctor who has to do paper work along with treating the patience at Akso Hospital. Things can get pretty stressful, and even Zayne can be overwhelmed.

It's normal to want space.

After all, you admit that you might have seemed like a pesky buzzing fly to someone who just wants some silence.

"Okay. I'll head home, then. Good night, Zayne. Please, don't forget to eat and rest." Not wanting to annoy him any further, you resisted to give him your usual parting peck and embrace. Instead, you gave him a soft smile and a casual wave of goodbye before leaving his house.

In the following day, you sent Zayne a good morning message, reminding him to take good care of himself, and he responded with his favorite good morning sticker. You weren't able to see him at all, since the Wanderers you dealt with had been a handful. By the end of the day, after eating dinner at a ramen shop with your coworkers, Xavier and Tara, you just had enough energy left for shower before crashing on your bed.

The next day, you had a day off so you decided to stop by Akso Hospital to drop off lunch for Zayne, knowing that he's most likely just eating cafeteria food. You even got him some macarons as a treat for working so hard, so you're certain he'll choose your personal delivery than the cafeteria.

The moment you arrived, you were greeted by Yvonne, whose eyes lit up as soon as she spotted your figure. "Hey! It's been a while since you visited!"

"Haha, I know! Work's been crazy, but apparently not as hectic as yours!" You laughed as Yvonne pouted in agreement.

"Tell me about it!" Greyson appeared as well, clutching a few sheets of paper in one hand. "So many people are getting injured these days! Luckily, things are starting to calm down now though."

"That's good. You guys really need a break after all the hard work you've been doing." You then held up the light blue tote bag that contained the lunch box and started to walk towards Zayne's office. "Anyways, don't let me take anymore of your precious time. I just stopped by to give Zayne - "

Within several feet away from his office, you froze.

The door was partly opened, and inside you could see him. Zayne was already eating lunch, and he wasn't alone. He's with a woman, another doctor, based on the snippets of phrases you caught as she spoke elegantly.

You couldn't tear your eyes off Zayne's bright eyes and his lips slightly curled into a smile.

The smile that you haven't seen for days.

You were glad to see it.

You only wished that it was directed at you right now.

"Ah, never mind. I guess he's busy at the moment." You turned around and retreated, giving Yvonne and Greyson a smile.

It was the kind of smile that had them exchange a look of concern.

"I'll just get going then. It was nice seeing you two!"

Greyson's eyes followed the tote bag in your hands that were lowering with disappointment. "Ahaha! Well, you know.... I haven't had lunch yet..." His left hand scratches the back of his head. "How about I trade some coupons with you in exchange for whatever you got in there? I'll treat you next time we have a group hang out too."

You grinned as you caught his drift right away. Someone wanted free food. "The coupons will suffice. I hope you enjoy!"

Greyson managed to drop a quick thank you as you practically ran out of the building.

Later that night, you didn't send a goodnight text, and you did not receive one either.

The next morning, you woke up to a good morning message from Zayne, along with a snowman sticker that said, 'Awake?'

You replied a quick, 'Good morning' before continuing to eat your breakfast while scrolling through social media.

A couple of minutes later, you received a follow-up text, with Zayne asking if you're feeling okay, sensing that something was off with the way you replied to him.

You always send him multiple texts, sometimes paragraph-long, but never just a couple of words that lacked your usual charms.

'Just feeling a little tired, been busy at work'

It wasn't a lie. Wanderers have been kicking your ass, though you always make sure to kick theirs thrice as hard.

You weren't even really upset with Zayne. He didn't do anything wrong that would warrant a cold shoulder.

It's just that something has been forcing you to distance yourself from him. Something deep in your stomach was making you feel weird, about yourself.

You started to wonder.... if you were too much for Zayne.

Too loud, too energetic, too draining, too....childish.

What if, maybe, he preferred to be with someone who's more calm and collected? Someone who didn't waste his time getting plushies at claw machines? Someone who matches his interests and intellect and energy? Someone mature? Like that woman that he was having lunch with.

After all, she was able to get him to smile, while you failed for days.

Maybe Zayne was getting tired of you.

And so, you stayed away from him, not wanting to pest him with your presence any longer.

He deserves better.

/////////

Busy. Busy. Busy. He'd been asking you if you were available to go out on Friday, Saturday, then Sunday, but Zayne hasn't had any luck.

The good morning and good night messages stopped, too. Usually, you were the one that sent them first. Sometimes, he'd send a text first, and you'll reply with multiple messages. This time, it's just been silence. All calls have been missed. He hasn't seen your face nor heard your voice for days.

He doesn't like it.

The distance. The silence.

Something was wrong, and he had a feeling that it's not because of your job.

You've been together for a while now, and he had seen you in your busiest and most exhausted days. No matter how much work has taken from you, you always made time for him. Even if it's just to shoot him some messages and a quick video call to let him know what you've been up to.

You always find time and energy for him.

That was something he hasn't been doing lately. He knows that he'd messed up and pushed you away when you were just looking out for him.

Zayne wanted to apologize properly in person, but now, he realizes, that might not happen anytime soon.

In his office at the hospital, Zayne quietly ate his lunch that was purchased at the cafeteria, forcing his eyes to remain at his computer screen even though they keep darting back to his closed door, hoping that it would open and a certain hunter will give him a surprise visit with food she prepared just for him.

The food wasn't settling well in his stomach.

Zayne couldn't find it in him to enjoy the sweet drink he bought at the cafe. He didn't want any of it. What he wanted was for you to show up so he can hold on to you and never let go.

It's been days and he misses your warmth.

Sighing, Zayne stood up and took a folder that had been sitting on his desk. He had unfinished paper work to do, he might as well just focus on that now, since he didn't have the appetite for lunch.

"Greyson, I have a question about yesterday morning's patient from the pediatrics." He entered his colleague's office, which wasn't too far from his own.

"Doctor Zayne, what do you need?" Greyson looked up from his book.

"About the antibiotics they were prescribed. How many - " Zayne's eyes shifted to something familiar that demanded his attention. A light blue tote bag sits on Greyson's desk. "That looks just like...."

He then spotted a familiar snowman sticker at the bottom left corner at the front of the bag. He knows that sticker well, because he was the one that put it there.

"Actually, that's.... Why do you have that?"

Greyson tensed up at Zayne's suddenly raised voice. Not angry, but more...accusatory. All he could do was laugh nervously.

"She visited a few days with food meant for you, but she saw that you were busy, so....I figured, instead of letting it be wasted....."

Zayne nodded his head. "I see." He then picked up the tote bag with the clean and washed empty lunch box inside. "I'll be returning this to her then."

"Y-yes, please! Thank you!"

Zayne didn't even finish his question for Greyson. He just walked out of the office immediately after taking the bag.

Greyson sighs with relief. He didn't die.

///////

Zayne returned home with his stomach feeling worse, and it's not because he hasn't eaten much. Now, he's certain that you really were upset with him.

First, he neglected you, pushed you away and acted cold when you were just caring for him, then you saw him having lunch with another woman - which wasn't wrong, and you've seen him have lunch meetings with other women before and expressed no concerns, but this time was different. The timing was bad, and the fact that you didn't barge in or talked to him afterwards meant you felt upset.

After giving you a few more calls that had all gone to voice mail, Zayne called it a day, hoping he'd have better luck tomorrow.

But he wasn't gifted with sleep that night.

His mind couldn't stop thinking.

He worried that you might've been so hurt that you'd want to leave him, and the thought of losing you made his chest tighten.

The thought of having to live without you by his side, just like all those years ago, hurt a lot. Now that he knows what a life with you feels like, there was no way he could go back to the days without you next to him.

Zayne sat up and looked at the time.

11:20 p.m.

It started to rain, and the coldness has entered his lonely home.

He can't waste another day.

Zayne needed to see you. Now.

And so, he quickly changed his clothes and went to his car and drove to your apartment.

/////

Your mouth dropped as soon as you saw who rang your doorbell.

"Zayne?! What the hell - it's almost midnight and it's raining!" His hair had gotten wet from the rain, black buttoned-up shirt also catching cold droplets, yet he didn't care at all. "Are you crazy?! What are you - "

You couldn't even finish screaming at him as he suddenly dove into your arms, burying his face against your neck as he pulls you close to him.

"I'm sorry." He whispered, warm breath tickling your skin. "I'm sorry."

Your throat tightened and words failed to leave your mouth. The coldness pricked your skin, so you rushed back inside your apartment with Zayne still latching onto you.

You took him to the kitchen and sat him down on a chair. He kept his arms wrapped around your waist while his face rested on your stomach.

Your fingers brushed against the wet strands of his hair. "Zayne..."

"I'm sorry." He said again. "I'm sorry for pushing you away when you only meant well. I'm sorry that you had to distance yourself from me, because I made you feel like... like you weren't important. But you are. I need you by my side. Please, don't leave."

"Zayne..." Your chest ached at the desperation in his voice. "Zayne." You got on your knees so that you can look at him in the eyes and hold onto his hands. "I'm sorry, too."

His eyes looked at you with confusion.

"I'm sorry for the way I acted. You weren't at fault for wanting space. I'd respect your wish anytime. It's just, at that time, my insecurity got the best of me."

"Insecurity?"

"I started to think that I might be too childish, and that maybe you'd prefer to be with someone more mature and someone who matches your interests, someone who could help you out when you're stressed about work, instead of getting in your way." You confessed, feeling embarrassed now that you're saying it out loud in front of him. "I'm sorry."

Zayne shook his his head and brought your hands to his lips for a lingering warm kiss. "I never thought that, and I never will. I'm grateful for you, and I love you exactly the way you are. You don't get in my way. I shouldn't have pushed you away. I truly am sorry for making you feel that way. I promise I won't do it again."

You rested your forehead against his.

"....you're still wet from the rain." You clicked your tongue and got up to get a towel, only for him to grab your hand. "Come on."

You brought him to the bathroom so you could help him freshen up from the rain. After he changed into the pajamas that he'd keep in your house, he joined you on your bed, and his arms wrapped tightly around you.

His head rested on your chest, arms on your hips, legs tangled together.

Just then...

"Shit. I forgot to turn off the lights in the kitchen."

You attempted to get up, but Zayne only held you tighter.

"Don't go."

"It'll only take a second." You poked his cheek, suppressing a smile, enjoying his clingy side that rarely comes out.

"It'll be fine. It can stay on for the night. Just let me keep holding you."

"Okay. Good night, Zayne."

"Good night."

[merakiui]

Mera, please more yandere vil thoughts pls, I can't get enough 😫

Hear me out....... yan Vil with the concept of schadenfreude (taking pleasure in someone's misfortune). The idea that you've never looked more beautiful than when you're suffering. Something something Rook's stalking you and taking pictures of you when you don't expect it and there's one photo he's snapped of you in absolute tears. A right mess. Maybe the stress (of being the doomed main character) of everything has caught up to you or it was just a bad day. Either way, Vil thinks you've never looked so beautiful before. Immediately he seeks to see more of this side. This damaged, messy, beautiful side.

And it's beautiful in the way erosion is, when time and the elements wear down antique buildings. He can't explain his twisted attraction (yes, he can), but it makes him smile to see you so distraught. It could be worse, and for once he kind of hopes it is just to see how you'll crumble in the prettiest of ways. >_< and then he can lift your chin with a manicured finger and promise you all will be well (it will not). Something something manipulation...... a distorted sort of affection where he can help and hurt you in one breath. He feels protective of you and such lovely fragility, but then it also puts him in a bad mood if you're smiling and doing well for yourself.

Maybe this vision is too much or ooc,,,, but methinks Vil's fascination with your misfortune is opportunity for many yan things. Pre-overblot Vil was cyberstalking Neige and even attempting murder,,, just imagine what he'll do for or to you. :3c

[anniebeckcalla]

you're always there...in my sleep

resting with the dreamies

(bf! dream x reader) ◦ ₊ wc: 858 ◦ ₊ cw: fluff, light skinship. lowercase on purpose! ◦ ₊ navigation

ღ calla's note: hope you enjoy this !! thank you so much for your support !!

mark

the room was warm, comfy, and filled with a soft illumination from the night lamp that was kept on through the night at your request. it obviously worked wonders, as you were asleep now, your face in a peaceful smile as your breath came out in small snores. mark lay next to you, but he wasn't in slumber. instead, he watched your eyelashes flutter as you steeped further into limbo. gently, he reached out his hand and used his finger to outline your eyelids, nose, and lips, deliberately taking his time to appreciate every scar and mole. at last, he cupped your face, his thumb caressing your cheek. “i’m so glad that i get to call you mine, y/n,” he whispered.

jeno

“still can't sleep?” jeno rubbed his eyes, hair tousled from being under the duvets. you shrugged, tears in your eyes. “it's no use. i've counted sheep, rubbed behind my ears, and sprayed lavender on the pillows. i’ll never get a good night's rest!” jeno sat up, throwing back the duvet. “let's go on a walk.” you stared at him, not sure whether to laugh or continue crying. “a walk? are you just trying to be funny?” jeno crossed over to your side of the bed, and held out his hand. “the night air will do you good, i promise. it's full moon tonight as well, don't you want to enjoy that together?” sighing, you took jeno's hand. “i'll admit that you haven't had a bad idea yet.”

calla's note: I feel like this is slightly ooc because jeno does NOT like going out :( anyway i hope that segment was nice

chenle

“see the way that draymond dodged the opponent?” chenle laughed as he reached for more popcorn from the bucket that you two were sharing. chenle had managed to get you to watch an nba match with him instead of a film that friday night, but instead of enjoying the match, all you two had done was laugh at the players' every move. chenle frowned when you didn't respond. “y/n?” he turned his head from the television to see you fast asleep, head lolled on his shoulder, your blanket wrapped around your shoulders. “oh, y/n,” he laughed softly. “let's get you to bed.” gently, as not to wake you, he lifted you in a blankety heap and carried you to your room.

renjun

your heart thudded loudly in your chest, your eyes wide in the pitch black. your limbs flailed, sending the duvet to the floor. “renjun,” you whispered. “renjun, where are you?” you reached out for him, but all that met you was the expanse of the mattress. stretching out for what felt like miles. Just then, the bedroom door opened and the room was flooded with light as renjun shuffled in with his phone torch. “ i was just using the toilet,” he began, but stopped when he saw your face. “why do you look so terrified?” he said. “i was scared that you'd just disappeared,” you muttered as renjun pulled the duvet back over the two of you. “you say funny things sometimes,” he chuckled as he pulled you close. “I wasn’t joking,” you mumbled, your eyes closing as you nestled in the crook of his neck.

haechan

it was a light spring afternoon, the sunshine streaming in through an open window. you stroked haechan's chestnut hair as he slept, his head on your chest, body nestled comfortably between your legs. there was a drama on the television that you'd been meaning to start a while ago, but you were distracted by haechan's soft snores and sweet-smelling hair. you bent down and pressed a kiss to the top of his head, and he stirred slightly, nestling his head down further into you.

jisung

“...but ron gasped, ‘get away from me, werewolf!’” jisung had one arm wrapped around your shoulders, the other holding the book. “your turn to read, love.” you shook your head, tightening your arms around his waist. “keep reading. it's nice.” “jisung sighed. “we're taking turns, y/n. it's not fair that i have to do all the reading before bedtime.” you frowned. “your voice is the only one that gets me to sleep at night, though! wouldn't you just do me that favour?” jisung sighed. “fine. i'm only doing this for tonight, though, okay?” “thank you, dearest,” you smiled. jisung rolled his eyes in response, but hugged you a little tighter as he resumed the story.

jaemin

the doorbell rang, cutting through the silent peace of the apartment. you jolted from your sleep, rolling over to compose yourself. as you rubbed your eyes, jaemin's voice came from beside you. “what was that?” he muttered, his eyes closed. “someone's at the door, you replied, sitting up. “were we expecting any visitors?” jaemin opened his eyes slightly. “no,” you shrugged. “then there's no reason to get up,” jaemin replied. “just ignore them. he took your arm and pulled you towards him, but then the doorbell sounded again. “i have to get it,” you said. “no you don't,” jaemin said. “just stay here. you know you want to.” you slid back under the covers, giggling when jaemin dipped his head to press his lips to your neck.

♡

comments and reblogs greatly appreciated !! (ФωФ)

masterlist

taglist: @cigsaftersuh @jenoleeaesthetic @pl4netx1a @jeonghansshitester @herjaemin @chenlezip

click!

[vssail]

kiss it better | robin x reader

a/n: english is not my first language! // 468 words

again, this was going to be about jaybin, but it could fit any robin (maybe a little ooc for damian). choose your fav and have fun reading!

"Hold still" you hissed at Robin. Your anger from exhaustion was obvious.

He made the effort not to move, but he couldn't help but flinch after you applied antiseptic to one of his scratches.

"God, this could qualify as torture, you know?" 

"If I torture you so much, next time wake someone else to patch you up!" you half-hissed, half-yelled. Yeah, you were angry.

He didn't answer (there was nothing he could say back). You were right, he shouldn't have bothered you so late at night. But Batman wasn't in town, Alfred would be angry for being careless (just a bit), and he kind of missed you. So yeah, he knocked on your window in the middle of the night with a first-aid kit in hand.

You continued working on him in silence, and he took the time to study your face. Even though you looked tired, your eyes were determined on patching him. Your eyebrows were furrowed in concentration. He didn't like the tension in your face.

While you were finishing bandaging his arm (it definitely took the worst damage), a hand rested on your cheek, caressing your face. With the other hand, he smoothed the crease on your forehead, trying to soften it.

"I'm sorry for bothering you," he murmured. "You should rest."

You left the bandages on your lap and placed a hand over his, still resting on your cheek.

"I saw you on TV," you whispered, a bit ashamed of what you were saying. "You were acting careless. And then I saw you getting thrown through a window."

He gave you a soft smile.

"Don't worry so much... your favorite Robin is safe and sound." 

"Not so safe and sound – that cut on your arm is terrible" you scolded. But a small smirk started forming on your face. "And who said you were my favorite?" you teased him, taking the bandages again.

He pretended to look hurt by that, only making you smile. The two of you continued with your own chores: you patching him, him studying the little smile still on your face. He loved making you happy. Both of you lost track of time until you finished.

"So... am I getting a lollipop after this or-" 

You cut him off, suddenly kissing the bandage on his arm. When you pulled back, you were greeted with a flustered, out-of-words Robin. He was completely still, frozen and red, his usual smirk gone.

"Robin?" you asked, trying to get him to Earth again.

"Uh?" he answered, but still looked like he was in another world.

You tried — really tried — not to smile, but it was impossible. The sight was too good for that. 

"Wh-What did you just do?" he babbled.

"...Kiss it better?"

He looked at you firmly.

"You're gonna be the death of me."

[therealheatherc]

Well, I've always put that last, I don't think I know who I'd want to be with if I didn't need to be with David.

*Gently knocks on the door, she looks tired. An oversized green letterman draped over her shoulders as opposed to her usual red. Her hands covered in makeup.*

Hi Nicole, do you have a minute? Sorry if it's a bad time....

- @therealheatherc

*she quickly puts down her hair tie and sits up straight*

Uh, yeah, come on in

[isaisliterallyhim]

heyyyy love your fics <333

can you do sugar daddy Kaiser who's always been rude and rough with reader but one day when he realises he's falling in love with them he's really gentle, asking how they feel and praising them? if possible can you do fluff along with nsfw???

ahh hii anon!! thank uu i appreciate ur words <33 anywayss i love the plot ohh gosh ygs r so creative omg

"And all I wanna do is stay with HER"

ft. michael kaiser . sugar daddy! kaiser . ooc! kaiser lol... . ness is in the story omg! . is ness ooc! too... . yes ness is ooc asw . character development.? . eventual smut . sex gulp... . piv ! . afab! reader . mistreated! reader ... . fluff asw . unreliable narrator

wc: 1.0k

"she's annoying." kaiser grumbled, taking a sip of wine. ness looked at him, "[name] cares about you that's why." the magician tried to lighten the mood. clearly, it didn't work.

"she just wants fucking money." he retorted. ness frowned, "can't you look at it in a positive way.? at least she's trying. take a look at all the others you've had."

that sentence had kaiser reflecting for a bit. "huh. i suppose you have a point for once, ness." the prodigy felt himself get a little flushed. "you're treating her so rough, how often does she even ask for money.?" ness continued. "don't be so harsh man! she's trying..."

the emperor tsked. "if she's so 'perfect' you take her then." he grumbled. jeez this guy is really helpless man... ness looked at kaiser disgusted for the first time.

"keep acting like that and she's bound to become who you think she really is." ness thought as he picked himself up and left kaiser to his thoughts.

later within the night, kaiser found himself scrolling through your photos after sending you some money (oh need that.) it hit him you were gorgeous. pretty face with a kind heart.. he was going to go insane.

the more he scrolled the more he admired your beauty. you radiated an aura that he just couldn't place his finger on. perfection was a word too vague to describe it.

shaking his head, he set his phone down. hands on his head, he was wondering. what the literal hell was he doing.? all he's ever done was treat you like shit because he had such horrendous experiences with others.

i mean, you were like the others. you were just there for the money... and attention i guess. but there was something more to it. he was just to blind to see it. (tf r ur glasses for mihya bro.)

it was late — hella late. 2:32 A.M.? there's no way you'd come over right? so what the heck were you doing at his door in a matter of moments?

kaiser opened his door, surprised. "you — you actually came?" he asked, somewhat in disbelief. "i'm right here aren't i, dumbass.. plus you called." you shrugged.

the satin on the bed somewhat wrinkled as the both of you sat down. "um, so why'd you want me to come ove-" you were quickly interrupted by an apology. "[name], liebling. i'm sorry. i'm sorry for my behaviour, how i treated you. scheiße, i'm so fuckin' sorry."

he held your visibly smaller and softer hands. his hands feeling quite the opposite. you were kinda a dumbass, "wha — michael huh...?" you shook your head giggling, "what are you apologizing for?"

his gorgeous blue eyes stared into yours. "don't act coy with me, [name]. you don't need to forgive me. i'll do whatever for your forgiveness. please. do you want more money? gifts.? flowers..? wha.. god. what do you want?!" kaiser asked desperately.

you looked at him with a deadpan expression. god, has this man ever been treated alright.? "mihya, i don't really want anything. yea i mean i love money i mean — who doesn't love money. but i'm not here solely because of money." you sighed.

"yes, you have money is definitely a positive trait but, you have more to it. money isn't the only thing that makes you lovable." you continued to ramble. his hands released yours. you were caught in his embrace.

"mihya.?" you whispered. kaiser knew how scary it was to love someone. the amount of devotion you must give. the time and effort. one wrong move? it could all crumble.

his embrace got tighter, you were tensing a little bit up. was he gonna beat you like what the heck is goin' on?! he knew you were always running away from love, 'cause your daddy never gave you enough :((

hey, same for him as well, no? "meine liebe." kaiser breathed, "let's try again together. i'm done with the 'you deserve better' bullshit. i have the choice to be better and i'm taking it."

he loosened his embrace on you, hands on your shoulders. you met his gaze. all it could scream was blue of desperation. not going to even lie, most dedication you've seen in your whole life.

you were still skeptical — hell, i can't blame you! you've been mistreated all the time by partners, getting taken advantage of... what change is this rich and attractive man going to do? he has the money, the women ugh... thinking about it made your head hurt.

"what do you say, liebling. let me show you.?" he leaned in, mumbling into your ear. hah! as if you'd believe what he said and give him a chance.

kaiser would be lying if he said he didn't regret making up with you earlier. he'd be lying if he said he didn't miss you. hell! every bit of fiber within him missed you! his lips on yours, oh gosh. he's going crazy. :c

a little while after what was supposed to be a sweet make out, he found himself aligning his tip to your slit. you had glossy eyes as you stared back up at him. he had you pinned onto the bed...

"are you sure?" he asked stroking your stomach, his hands then tracing your curves. "fuu-uck. you're perfect." he mumbled. you nodded in response.

as he buried his length into your warmth he swore he got sent to heaven. "sh-shit.. scheißescheißescheiße...! please you're made for me..." he continued, his lips once more pressed onto yours.

nah, at this point his cock was stretching your opening... it hurt. kaiser broke off the kiss as he groaned, "you take me so damn well.. i'm sorry for being so horrid to you."

you were practically crying, was it cause the sex was good? cause of kaiser? you didn't know! "m-hya.." you sobbed out so sweetly. it was kaiser's last straw.

your walls were sucking his member in man..! how could he not..? your noises could kill him oh gosh! one last thrust and his length was kissing your womb :c "i'm sorry meine liebe, i-" the emperor didn't even get to finish his sentence as he finished in you <3

he pulled out just to push his fingers back in. admiring your form and expression. maaaan, kaiser couldn't ask for a better girl >< dawn came, so did kaiser, 'cept he n you came multiple times :3 kaiser could make it better. all he needed was just one more day with ya.

— ©isaisliterallyhim, 2025

tags !! : @twijaxx ♡, @kyvkc

a/n: hey guys.. hey anon.. guess who's finally back heh... my writers block actually fried me so bad its diabolical man.. yes i lost motivation half way along w the plot tbf i had this in my drafts for 2 weeks or smth... i'm so sorry if this wasn't what y'all wanted ill cook for the future ones ;-; good GAWDDDD if kaiser was my sugar daddy man.. money and hes hot YES PLSS (no im nawt shallow but tuition fees are booty bro yall cant blame me.) yes this is all yap ALL MY NOTES ARE YAP OK </3 but um.. yay ilygs a lot mwa mwa <3

[kumasakka]

Can you pleaseeeeeeeeee make part 2 of new start (seongji yuk)? It was SO GOOD AND SWEET IT LITERALLY MADE ME CRY 6 TIMES THAT DAY, stay healthy and drink a lot of water ☺️ you can ignore this request if you want

.𖥔 ݁ ˖ ❝ 𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐓 2 ! ❞

⋆.˚ 𝐏𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆. y.seongji x reader .

⋆.˚ 𝐒𝐔𝐌𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐘. mundane day into his new life.

⋆.˚ 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐓. ~0.9k .

⋆.˚ 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓. crack, a little. (kinda) plantonic. f!reader. self - made au ! [character who deserved it the most in lookism] . spoiler - warning . safe for minors! crappy writing. seongji may seem ooc .

　MONTHS passed as Seongji moved in with you in one small yet fine apartment in the center of seoul. And it took a while for him to settle in the new environment, a lot is being taken care of with electrical things — definitely different from his rather old-fashioned ways of handling things. You also needed to teach him many new things and how to act in public, because he almost beat up someone in the middle of the city.

And to avoid such things, you isolated him for a few days in your apartment. You probably sighed thirty to forty times a day while teaching him proper manners, how to use most of the things and how to survive without you. He was comfortable enough to not leave your place for days, always training in his new room or making tanghulu in your kitchen like a master.

"Good morning." you tiredly wished him as you sat down, still half asleep.

Seongji placed two plates on the table as he slided one over to you. "Morning. I woke up earlier today so I decided to make breakfast." he said, sitting down while his ears heated up a little — a sign that he was pretty nervous for his first time cooking a different type of breakfast without you. You can't blame him, he only learned the korean kitchen and not any other recipes besides korean dishes.

"Well..." you mumbled, rubbing your eyes to wake yourself up before taking a bite of the toast. "It's... not bad."

A little smile made it's way to your lips as you finally looked into his way. Just to realize — how burnt his toast looked. The food you were holding in your hand dropped, quickly standing up to stop him from eating that black thing, something you couldn't fall food anymore. "H-Hey don't eat that..! You could get cancer from it." you knitted your eyebrows a bit and grabbed his plate of burnt... things.

"Cancer? I could get cancer from this?" he blinked dumbly, trailing after you into the kitchen while watching with a broken heart how you threw his breakfast away.

"Duh." you answered before turning to him. "So don't think of eating something like this again!"

"Yes, ma'am."

"Stop."

"Sorry, ma'am."

"Hey stop it with the ma'am!"

"I thought about..." you started before pausing mid sentence to trace over the canvas with the tip of your pencil to draw fine lines, "something..."

"Hmm?" he almost turned his head, only for him to flinch as you demanded to not move an inch. "About what?"

"About your name..." you confused him a little bit by that, "I mean when I exhibit my paintings and people ask the name of my muse. Your name will be six."

"Why?"

"Because you have six fingers and six toes." you raised an eyebrow as if the answer wasn't obvious.

"No, I don't want to be named six." he furrowed his eyebrows a bit.

"Oh you will be named six. Watch me. You should start appreciating your six fingers and toes." you huffed.

The only sound you could hear was the pencil against the canvas. "Appreciate it?" he muttered under his breath. "It made my life a living hell. That's also the reason why I stayed on the mountains and got called monster." he definitely sounded frustrated about that fact. "I can only appreciate it during fights."

"Well, it's one aspect already." your eyes trailed back to him for a second to continue your work.

"But i'm trying to avoid fights near you. It could potentially harm you." he countered.

"Then erm..." you thought for a moment, "when I get harassed you need to fight for me, okay?"

"Alright."

Silence. You paused in your movements, gaze glued to the canvas infront of you. It was still far from finished but you can already puzzle the person on the canvas. And it would be an understatement if you say he's beautiful. He's undying beautiful. "Who even called you a monster? On my soul you're the prettiest boy I've ever seen." you broke the silence with your comment.

"Don't say that."

"Say what."

"I'm neither beautiful nor handsome."

You grimaced, turning your head to him again with furrowed eyebrows. "Are you for real?" you huffed, "or are you actually compliment fishing? Not cool man. Just accept the fact."

"Please stop calling me pretty."

"Do you even know why I chose you as my muse?" you raised an eyebrow. "Because you're pretty. But beauty is subjective I guess. What's your definition of beauty then?"

"Someone like you." you choked on your spit.

"The hell? Stop those jokes. I'm going to hit you."

"I'm not going to fight back."

You stood up from your spot and wore your new camera around your neck, quickly making your way towards him and then cupping his face. "You really think I would hit you?" you sighed out, closing your eyes. "How could I hurt my muse?"

"Can I be something more than your muse?" he questioned, eyes focused on your face he deemed as beautiful.

"Of course. I could say we're partners, not in a romantically sense though." you blinked. "Wanna be friends?"

"Yeah something like that." a smile painted his face. "You're my first friend."

"I am oh so honored to be pretty boy's first friend since the new start." you grinned, stepping back with the camera in your hands. "Stay like this.

　SNAP !

"Look." you didn't hesitate to show him the picture. "You're smiling. It's pretty, don't you think so?"

"Yeah." his eyes trailed up to your face. "It's beautiful."

© 2024 kumasakka — do not plagiarize , copy , modify , translate our work !

a/n's note — I'M SO SO SO SO SO SO SORRY FOR THE LATE UPDATE AJDUHSHFF

[007n7]

"Hmm... Hello, dear Robloxian. 007n7, was it? It is an honor to be in the presence of such a... Notable hacker. Well, all least the father of one."

The angel stares at you, its smile daunting, almost uncanny.

@spawnpointangel (HIII UR BLOG IS SO COOL!! Explodes)

🌀: "AGH- So.. bright."

🌀: "Am I seeing things? Are you real?- Ah, whatever. Everything is already odd as it is. Yes, I am 007n7, I was in fact a.. uhm.. hacker. I don't prefer talking about it though."

(OOC: HI! TYSM THAT MEANS A LOT TO ME! :D I hope you don't mind the model I came up with for the spawn point angel)

[higanbanaki]

I suddenly remembered this one equation that you're supposed to write on a folded paper so that the bottom would spell 'I love you'

And for those who don't know which one I'm talking about, it's this one:

Now THIS singular equation made me instantly think that the reader would give this on a piece of aforementioned folded paper to Donnie on Valentines' Day or any other day, and all he does is look at it without responding and the moment reader tries to explain it he suddenly gave the paper back with the exact answer to the equation written on the back, along with a lengthy solving process.

And aside from the major question as to how he had found the time to write all THAT, they were also a little sad that he didn't get it. So they had to spent some time explaining it to him what the actual meaning behind the equation is (one, one being Donnie in this case, might argue it's not the actual meaning to it). And once he got it, he actually finds it somewhat endearing. And to give credit when credit's due this once, he finds it quite cleverly done.

This is probably OOC I done never wrote anything for ROTTMNT at ALL and idk if I'm gonna continue doing it y'all tell me because ion think I'm doing it right

[gremlinlotusannonhere]

(ooc: YOU 🫵 YOU TALENTED BEING - I read through that one post "hunting while being hunted pov" AND DUDE - HOW COME YOU DIDN'T SAY YOU WERE AN AMAZING WRITER???

I was wondering if you'd like a continuation to of that? I feel like I've been overbearing these past days, sooo I just want to make sure you're good. If you need a break 100% oki 👍 just let me know))

...

(meanwhile back at the cave. Thorn was correct about the fact their "friend". The rambling mess, pacing back and forth worriedly to the little creature)

Nonononono, this can't be happening!

What if they left? What if they forgot again?? Or worse they got hurt!? How could I be so careless?? Falling asleep and just to wake up and find them gone! It's been how long? An hour?? Why aren't they home yet?? Are they safe??

(as they're nervously fidgeting the purple pebble, tied to some spare vines and now built to a necklace during their anxious waiting)

(ooc: I didn't mention it because I didn't (and still don't) really plan on sharing my writings and made that during school, liked it and decided to post it. It was the first thing I've written on my own time in, like, three months and I was also testing a new writing style which both made me really proud of how it came out!)

*Thorn walks into the cave, visibly confused about something before they spot their friend and tackle them in a hug*

Friend! Hello!

[siriuslythebrighteststar]

☆☆☆

do i even need an introduction??

jokes. jokes, i swear. (hi, hello, bonjour, howdy, good day!)

i'm sirius <3 the one and only, bitches. some call me pads, and you know who you are ;)

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

☆ 17 ☆ he/him ☆ the coolest gryffindor everrr ☆ disowned <3 ☆ only slightly dramatic ☆ i like my lovely friends, leather, cigarettes, dogs, my hair, music music music, chocolate, stealing moony's jumpers because it's cold, the stars, and sleeping in. ☆ i dislike pricks, unflattering outfits, & my fucking parents <3

friends <3:

moony moon - @wolfjohnmcwolf prongsie prongs - @james-the-prongs reggie - @regdrowningpoet lils - @lilstheflower franky - @frankyylongbottom panda -@likethegirlwiththebox: pop bart -@the-hotter-bartycrouch rosie - @evtherosier

☆ my ooc is @short-insomniacs07 ! if u don't like, dni. message @regdrowningpoet to join the rp!! :)) ☆

[midnightshindig]

Hiiii, this is my first time ever requesting a fic so please bare with me. But I was wondering if you’d write a Multi-Paul x Fem!Reader who can copy other people’s powers??

IM ALIVE!!! RAHHHH!! First Multi-Paul request, sorry in advance if this ends up being ooc, we don't know tooooo much about his personality rn in the show so I'm working with what I have!

BIG SPOILERS for the latest episode >:O

hcs under the cut!

I imagine it to be a very Kid Flash x Jinx situation

You working as a lone superhero, him working for The Order

You cross paths pretty often, but its always a good time

the stakes are low, is all

You don't report to Cecil, and Paul is usually pretty willing to fail just enough to satisfy you, but complete just enough of his mission to avoid dying at the hands of his boss

He's not sure what the deal with your powers is

You have different abilities every time he sees you

and one day when a swift roundhouse might knock you out, another day you take his punches from all sides like its nothing

It's a mystery

and he loves mysteries

and up until recently, he'd had a great time trying to solve you

Until one day when you're fighting outside a politician's house- Paul sent to assassinate the whole family

"Yknow-" you block attacks from three of his clones, as he stands unimpressed a few feet away

"you could leave them, I could protect you-" you fought through his clones, only for him to replicate more and sick them on you

This didn't deter you, however, and you fought your way up to him, taking hold of the back of his head and pressing it against yours

fucking- iPhone airdrop noises or something

I'm not that worried about the logistics of this power dw about it

Either way-

Paul pushes you back, stumbling and grabbing his head

"WH- What did you do to me?!" He yells out, patting down his body

he feels fine.

His shaky eyes are on your figure, until a fist from the other side of him decks him right across the face

"Where? Where are you!?" he grabs his jaw, dislocated from the punch "Aw fuck! Y/n that hurt!"

He watches with dizzy and blurred vision as you walk over to him, err- the two of you

He looks up at you and your clone, both holding out a hand to him.

"C'mon, get up." You said, the replica staying silent. You obviously hadn't had this power before-

"Oh fuck me...." Paul groaned, taking your hand and being pulled to his feet "Power replication, of course."

You smacked his arm, getting his attention

"I'm serious, Paul. Think about my offer. I..." you look away, the hardened stare of a hero who'd seen to many things

"I don't want you to meet the natural end for a member of The Order. If the Guardians- or Invincible- or someone less forgiving than me-! Ugh." You shook your head, dismissing your emotions and grabbing his hands

"I don't want you to do something you can't undo."

There was a moment of palpable tension between the two of you

He hated being told what to do

and he knew his sister didn't approve of what he did

but when he looked at you, he didn't see disapproval or disappointment or hatred

just fear

just concern

and maybe a hint of affection

He wanted to wriggle his hands free from yours, to tuck his tail and run

but he couldn't.

then again, he couldn't exactly leave, either.

"Y/n...." he started, his eyes meeting yours

Your eyes filled with a glimmer of hope, before deflating once you recognized the sour look in his own

"I can't. You know I love.... sparring with you... but I can't leave The Order. They would do unspeakable things to me, and worse to you." He took a somber step towards you "I can't have that happen."

The next few fights are somber, joyless affairs, and you both get sloppy

your heart just isn't in it anymore, it used to be thrilled and kind of flirtatious to fight with Multi-Paul, quips and comebacks and battle-throughline conversations

but now when you fought, it was silent, a soft look of fear and regret on both your faces

When Machine Head takes of The Order, Paul comes to you

like, literally to the door of your apartment

of your secret identity

You're in casual clothes and messy hair when you open the door, assuming it's someone at the wrong address or a package delivery or something

Instead it's Paul, in his.... in his fucking costume? Oh dear.

"Excuse me- Is this the home of Y/- Oh." His eyes settle on you with a wave of recognition "I'm sorry- you look.... different." It sounds like an insult, but his hardened eyes are glazed over with awe

You lean against the doorframe, unimpressed "What do you want, Paul?"

"I... I'm sorry for hunting you down like this. It wasn't my intention to-"

"What. Do you want. Paul?" You gritted out, pain screwing into your features as your expression soured. Not with hate, but pain.

He sighed, looking away with a bitter expression "That's fair. I... deserve that. I'm here to ask a favor."

You quirked a brow, pursing your lips "Yeah? what is it?"

He looked back at you nervously "Please stop being mad at me."

"..."

"Y/n wai-" you almost slammed the door in his face, being stopped by a quick clone slamming their fingers in the way, being broken by the impact

Your eyes widened and you threw open the door "Paul! What the hell are you okay?"

"Yeah... don't worry about me." The clone phased back out of existence with a smile

"I DO worry about you- fuck- Paul..." You furrowed your brows, cupping his face with an open palm "I know it's not permanent, but I don't like you getting hurt. I don't want you to die, and I don't want to have be the one to put your ass in prison one of these days- why don't you get that? I'm not mad at you- I CARE about you."

it all spilled out, and you're sure your neighbors thought awful things of you

but Paul was the only opinion you cared about

he was shocked, eyes wide looking at you in surprise

He never realized how much you cared, how much it bothered you.

His eyes narrowed and he folded his arms, unwilling or unable to bend "I can't stop with The Order. Not now.... at least."

He sighed, and put his hand over your own, leaning into your hand with a tense, serious expression and closed eyes

"I'm sorry for making you worry. Can I make it up to you?"

You blinked a few times before asking "What do you mean?"

His expression turned to a small smile "Like a date, maybe?"

Your eyes widened and face flushed

"Oh."

"Oh?" He repeated nervously, resisting the temptation to run away once more.

"Not bad 'oh'!! Just- surprised? Pleasantly, that is." You corrected yourself, bringing your other hand to his other cheek and squishing his face together

"I'd like that very much, Paul."

He beamed down at you, leaning fully into your touch "Okay! Uhm- awesome. I will uh... I'll be back! When's a good time?"

"Today!?" You asked with a laugh, shocked by his candidness

"yeah, of course! When have I ever waited? Okay fuck- you get dressed, I'll be back in an hour." and with that he was gone

He arrived, true to his word, an hour later, in a beat-up commuter car wearing a black t-shirt and simple jeans. He cleaned up nice, you had to admit.

"Get in, I know exactly where to take you."

you climbed into the clown car, and half an hour later you were at...

"Paul where the fuck are we?"

"Just cmon." He opened your car door, helping you out and leading the way

You seemed to be in the middle of nowhere, the woods most likely

oh my god was this all a convoluted ploy to murder you?

No of course not

You arrived at a cliff, not a terribly steep one, but dangerous enough in its own right. You wouldn't want to fall off it, that was for certain.

past the treeline, on the very edge of the cliff, was a swingset

"Paul... what is this?"

"I used to come here a lot... after I escaped from the lab I was raised in."

His expression was magical as he stared at the scenery, the sky now both dark and bright with stars all at once

"Paul if you're going to push me off a cliff I swear to god-"

"Y/n." He said sternly, turning to look at you with just as much awe "Trust me. You'll be fine." He bumped his forehead to yours, and motioned for you to leave a clone behind as well.

He clambered onto the small swing as you took a seat next to him in a swing of your own, your feet only inches away from the edge of the cliff.

"Swing." he commanded, like whispering a prayer

and so you did, the two of you swinging high into the night, and it almost felt like flying.

and you realize he's never known what it is to fly.

the rust on the chains and the copy of himself he left behind to stay safe gnawed at you

how often had he fallen off as a reckless and clumsy child and died? only to have a backup standing a few feet away.

The thought made you shudder

"I haven't been here in years" he lamented, leaning against the chain wistfully, like a tuckered out fourth grader

"Paul.... I've enjoyed our fights over the last few years. You know." You nudged his foot with your own, a friendly kick, if you will

He simply sighed in response, before continuing his thought "It's nice to be back with someone I care about, who can appreciate it as much as I do."

There was a warm brevity in the air

nothing needed to be said that would be worth saying, it was a pleasant night held between two people who cared about each other

and the stars shone twice as bright that night

(fun fact this swingset is inspired by a real swingset, over a five-foot drop onto a cement basketball court, my elementary school had, which led to a LOT of kids breaking or twisting their first bones.)

[rendogs-mailbox]

Greetings , cyberdogs and citizens of the interbubs! This is Ren Diggity Dog!

After many nights of pondering where my mailbox was going to go, it's finally set up and I am now part of the network! Hopefully all that time wasn't for nothing, I'm excited to see what mail can be sent in!

-- -- -- --

Find the other mailboxes here or check out the #hermit mailbox ask universe tag!

This blog is not associated with Rendog and is a parody account. Support the actual Rendog here

-- -- -- --

[OOC notes under cut]

Hi there! My name is Oli, I use hy/him pronouns and I run ren's mailbox! You can also find me behind mumbo's and skizz's mailbox! Anything I'm saying OOC will be marked with a 🐾

I ask you not to send any graphic NSFW asks, however jokes are okay! OC interactions are welcome, but I don't do OC ship interactions.

If anyone would like me to remove a reblog, please reach out!

OOC Tag : #🐾 / woof Fun Fact Tag: #🐾 / fun character facts

pfp art by sometimesrendog, affiliation list by grians-mailbox (i'd make my own but i'll forget to update it)

[formiito]

let the light in ; chuuya nakahara

chuuya x gn! reader

author's note: i got a hang of tumblr formatting??? kinda??? i will make a master list soon. i hope this isn't too ooc.

warnings: none, just fluff and mild angst at some points! i'msonormalaboutchuuyaiswear

“Come on, let me in.”

The soft voice at his door catches the young executive’s attention. Before Chuuya gets up from the couch and puts down his glass of vintage red on the coffee table, he’s already braced himself for hearing whatever inane reason you'd be at his door this late. He’s managed to successfully ignore all your calls and texts like he usually does, but it certainly doesn't fool you. Because you can’t sleep and neither can he. Once again, he realizes the futility of his efforts to keep you away.

Truth be told, you weren't a bad person. You didn't invoke his temper as easily or as often as other people did, and you were capable when you worked alongside him. There was an ease of being about you; something that he could eventually catch himself falling into time to time. You wear at him like a harsh current does to a rock by the side of a river. The veneer of nonchalance chips away more and more the longer he allows himself this companionship. And he's aware of this weakness; it feels so out of place when he is usually so assured. But no gravity manipulation can make this heart lighter.

Not when your face reminds Chuuya of a life he's already left behind. You were there when he spilled his first blood, you are here now, and he cannot find it in himself to push you out completely. As much as he likes to think he's above these sentimentalities, nostalgia still finds a victim in him; wrapping itself around his mind in his unsuspecting moments till he could no longer discern between himself of the past and him now. You make the poor guy feel the burden of his past failures too often.

Feel too much, too, for that matter.

You try with such enthusiasm, too. Despite the fact that over the six…or was it seven years, his life and yours have been turned upside down and inside out. There are some people who feel like they have been frozen in time somehow. With you, he feels like he can stave off the rot of his current life just for a little bit. A dangerous thought. He wants to stick a knife in your neck sometimes. Would that make him stop thinking so much? Or would his past still trail him around in the form of your memory?

It's a quarter to one now.

The door unlocks.

“What is it now?” This annoyed tone sounds forced out of his mouth. Strange, he never had any issues with it until you come into the room.

“I couldn't sleep!”

“Clearly.”

“You know what? We should go out for a drive, Chuuya, it's the perfect time!”

“Like, right now?”

“Yeah.”

“…You're serious?”

“Are you coming or not? Quick, I don't have the time!”

It's a good thing that he isn't completely buzzed from the wine he was drinking yet, because your request leaves no room for disagreement, even if it’s a question. An exasperated sigh leaves his lips, a muttered curse following soon after. “Fine! But I’m in charge of the music.” It makes no difference, most of the good songs he knows were your favorites at some point of time. You held him down and made him listen, and as much as he acted like he loathed the whole ordeal, the tunes wouldn't leave his thoughts be no mater what. He picks up the car keys off the table, not bothering to pick up anything else save for his hat.

This had become something of a routine. You would always bother him at odd hours, though you were a rare sight at daytime, doing god knows what. The redness in the whites of your eyes, and the way you would rub at them every now and then indicated that you were exhausted, yet you insisted on these outings. It was the typical condition that came with their work; he was no stranger to sleepless nights himself. But with you, he finds himself actually concerned. The exceptions he makes for you feel unreasonable. The effect you had on him was just as confusing. Chuuya wonders if you just do that to him or if everyone is subject to the mental damage you cause him just by being around him.

Consciously, he knew there was no use dwelling on these thoughts. For the better or worse, your lives were fundamentally intertwined. Not by narrative choice, but by sheer persistence. He remembers what you said to him once. When he asked you why you were coming along with him, you only said, “because I’ll go wherever you go, obviously.” You refused to elaborate when he asked you to explain why. You acted as if this was an objective truth, like it was the natural state of things. As if in every scenario possible, you would've done the same thing. He called you an idiot for it, still thinks you are. Because Chuuya cannot understand why you stick by him, or more importantly, why he allows you to.

Even then, he has to reluctantly admit to himself that he’s glad for it. You remind him of his past failures and naïveté, but you also remind him of the concept of home. The last tether to his past is you, and he wouldn't allow anyone to sever that imaginary cord. Despite how much he hates it, you still hold a part of him he would have otherwise lost touch of. The pain felt easier to get through when it was shared. Maybe this was just what friendship was. It was elusive to obtain, but once you have it; whether by accident or on purpose, you have to cope with it for the rest of time.

You walk ahead of him, and he keeps up with your pace. Unlike him, you were aware of how you felt on a level that was nearly painful; instead of fuzzy, bittersweet feelings of nostalgia, you felt the lashes of time and it’s wear with pointed certainty. You were your own witness to the degradation of your morality and soul. You felt it chip away piece by piece, and saw the wear in the mirror. An experience that broke you from inside out, creating a new person out of the debris.

You hold onto the remains of a past you can't remember, and in this folly you have ruined yourself chasing something that had never existed. But perhaps that was the reason why you didn't let go of Chuuya in particular. He was tangible, within your grasp; not necessarily a constant, but by your own design you've made him one. You've made out of him a friend you trusted with your life, and that trust shows in every action, every laughter, everytime you show up at his door at some weird hour of the night. You know it annoys him, but he lets you. In a strange way, you test him again and again just for the sheer satisfaction of being assured that yes, he wouldn't turn you away.

The walk to the car was fairly short. He got in the driver’s seat, waiting for you to follow suit and started up the ignition. The port town was especially beautiful at midnight, the late night lights of the wharf reflecting in the distant ocean. The sky is dark with no sign of light, all veiled by the smoke that lingers in city skies. All the stars that were meant to exist in the sky were here on the ground, in the lights of offices working late or streetlights flickering for the convenience of nightwalkers.

“Are you really gonna play that? Eh…”

“Hey! It's a good song, okay?!?”

“Debatable.”

“You’re literally the one who made me listen to it!”

“Did I really, though?”

“You-”

“Shut up! I think I just saw an ice cream place a little further up.”

After an excruciatingly long wait of watching you pick an ice cream out of the array of colors, you both were finally out in the open air again. The cold air pricks like needles. It wasn't even the weather for ice cream, but your habits were incorrigible as always. When you inevitably start sniffling, he could only manage a pointed comment about how you never learn. He would've given his hat to you if you asked. It's frustrating that you never do. Things never go the way they play in his head, and it infuriates him. The ride to home feels infinitely long. Taking the highway was an unnecessarily long route, and yet it was the one he took everytime whenever he was driving with you.

When you both get back home, he's hit by that strange spell again. A lack of thoughts and a tongue restless for words, checked by his dry throat. For whenever the air isn't filled with senseless chatter, gunshots or music, that is when he feels truly weak in front of you. The comfort of being around you shifts to something uncertain and bitter in the early morning hours. When you ask to stay the night like the usual, he can no longer find the strength to refuse. It was clear that no matter what the both of you did, at the end of the day, what waits for him is a helplessness so foreign to him even with his frequent encounters with it.

The weariness is built into their bones, and by the end of the day when they both are tired of this endless charade, you both end up in the same place as always, hopelessly entertained in each other’s lives. Perhaps on another night when you cannot sleep, he will let himself get willingly caught and put an end to this chase. Pushing away the curtain, letting the light in, and look to find you there where he left you.