#((genuinely did not know succulents could flower but oh my goodness

[iiroiiros]

MY BABY HAD A BABY!!

[summerwritesfics]

🗺️I Swear When I Grow Up I Won’t Just Buy You A Rose

Pairing: Raiden/Kuai Liang Length: 1772 Words Rating: Teen Warnings: Modern AU, Flower Shop AU, Florist!Kuai Liang, First Meetings, Meet-Cute, Gift Giving, Fluff AU-Gust 2024 Day 17: Flower Shop

AU-Gust 2024 Masterlist

Notes: Okay gonna be real with you, I have no idea about the pricing of flowers especially the pricing of flowers in dollars, and my attempted research on the topic kept coming up with wedding prices. So, I have no idea if what I wrote here is a reasonable price or flowers, or if it’s too little. If someone would like to correct me, feel free, but I swear I tried 😭 Title is from The Gambler by Fun.

“I never know what to buy people for their Birthdays,” Kung Lao complained, placing his arms behind his head as they walked down the street.

Raiden chuckled and said “it’s not that hard, is it? You always manage to get me stuff I like.”

“That’s different, I’ve known you forever. I could give you a somewhat interesting looking rock and you’d be over the moon with it.” Well, he supposed Kung Lao had a point there. For him it was always the thought that counted in terms of gifts. “But we’ve only known Kitana and Mileena for a couple of months. What the heck do I get?”

“You could go halves with me on some flowers,” Raiden offered, thinking it was the easiest option. Lao was right, they hadn’t known the sisters that long, but he had talked with them enough to realise they both like flowers.

“No offence, but I don’t want to be that basic.”

“Are you calling me basic?” Raiden gasped in mock offence.

“I mean I’m not calling you complex,” Lao replied with a cheeky smirk. Raiden rolled his eyes.

“Well, have fun figuring out what non-basic gift you’re going to buy them,” Raiden claimed as they came to the flower shop he’d had in mind. Lin Kuei Florals was a relatively new shop, a small family run business from what he could tell. He was all about supporting small businesses rather than corporate conglomerates. “I’m gonna go buy my flowers now.”

“Yeah, yeah, I’m gonna go see if I can find something in that clothes shop over there.” Lao pointed in the direction he was going.

Raiden just shook his head as he went to enter the flower shop. As he stepped in he was immediately met with the floral smell, making him glad he didn’t have any allergies. It was a small shop, but absolutely packed to the brim with plants of all kinds. It wasn’t just bouquets either, there were some plants in pots, including succulents and cacti. There were some cute hanging baskets, and even a rack of seeds.

“Welcome to Lin Kuei Florals, how may I help you?” A voice called to him from the counter, and when Raiden looked up, he actually felt himself go a little hot.

The man behind the counter was a bit shorter than Raiden, wearing his long hair up in a bun. He had a scar over the one side of his face, and two flowers, one yellow, one blue, tucked into his ear. Usually, Raiden wasn’t one to be distracted by someone’s looks, but something about this man made him feel dizzy.

“Are you alright sir?” The man asked, sounding genuinely concerned. Raiden’s eyes flicked to a little name tag on the man’s apron that read “Kuai Liang”.

“Ah. Yes. Sorry,” he said in a hurried tone as Kuai Liang came from behind the counter to approach him.

“Is there anything I can help you with?” Kuai Liang asked, tilting his head slightly.

“Uh. Flowers.” Raiden wanted to just slap his face with his hand because of course he wanted flowers, that’s why he was in a flower shop. Kuai Liang probably thought he was stupid or something.

“Well, you’re definitely in the right place for that,” Kuai Liang giggled, and it just made him even cuter to Raiden. “Any particular flowers you’re looking for?”

“Pretty ones?” Oh. Good. If Kuai Liang didn’t already think he was a moron he definitely did now. “I’m so sorry. I’m not normally this dumb, I just have no idea what I’m actually looking for.”

Smooth. Maybe Raiden had saved himself there.

Maybe.

“I’m guessing you’re buying them as a gift for someone?” Kuai Liang enquired, reaching for a notepad in his pocket and a tiny pencil.

“Yeah, I’ve got these two friends, they’re twins so their birthday is coming up.” He rubbed the back of his head. “I know they both really like flowers so I thought a bouquet might do it.”

“Any ideas what kind of flowers they like?” Kuai Liang scribbled something down on his notepad.

“That’s the thing, I think it’s like… All flowers.” He tried to think of something that might help Kuai Liang out. “Ah, one sister really likes the colour blue, while the other loves pink.”

“Were you hoping for separate bouquets for them?” He continued to ask, writing more things down.

“Yes I think that’d be for the best.” He was sure, being twins, they got people treating them like they were the same person all the time. And even in the few short months he’d known them, he’d definitely come to appreciate that for all their similarities, they were still quite different people deep down. “So maybe one with mostly blue flowers and the other mostly pink?”

“Alright, give me a minute.”

And like that, Kuai Liang was darting around the shop, picking up various items. Raiden watched in silence as he grabbed ribbons, pruners, and paper. Then he started going between flowers. He grabbed some deep blue ones, paired with some lighter blue and some that were bordering purple. A couple of smaller white flowers too. He put them on the table together, before returning to look around again. This time he was gathering flowers of various pinks, some deep magenta and some more dusky baby pink. He also grabbed a couple of yellow flowers.

“What do you think? Before I commit to putting them together?” Kuai Liang asked, taking a step back to really observe them. Raiden wandered to join his side, looking over. He really didn’t know much about flowers, or which ones look good together, but even he could admire these flowers all complimented each other.

“They look amazing,” Raiden whispered. His personal favourite of the flowers was actually the smaller white ones, there was something delicate and sweet about them. “How long have you been doing this?”

“Ah, well, I’ve done some casual courses for flower arranging.” Kuai began to wrap the blue bouquet up, in a light pink paper Raiden now noticed. “But I’ve loved plants since I was a child, and my Mother brought me a pack of wildflower seeds to grow.”

“So, is this your shop?” He asked, because from what he knew this was a family owned business.

“Technically it’s my elder brother’s I suppose, but he did buy it for me, so.” Kuai shrugged, wrapping a sparkly blue ribbon around the bouquet and tying it in a bow. “My younger brother helps me out sometimes, but he isn’t quite as interested in plants as I am.”

“Huh.” His brother must be pretty loaded to just casually buy him a shop. Still he didn’t voice that, instead saying “you definitely seem to know what you’re doing.” He frowned, remembering something he’d read about once. “Is that stuff about flowers having meanings true or is that just a myth?”

Kuai Liang laughed as he moved onto the pink bouquet, wrapping that one in a light blue paper.

“There are some agreed upon meanings, but they’re not nearly as important as fiction would make you believe,” he said while smiling ear to ear. “That said if you ever need a bouquet to be extremely passive aggressive towards someone I can definitely help you with that.”

Raiden spluttered and covered his mouth with his hand. As he stood trying not to laugh, Kuai Liang finished up the second bouquet, scooping them both up and handing them to Raiden. They were beautiful and he was certain Kitana and Mileena would love them.

“Thank you so much,” he replied, following Kuai Liang over to the counter. “You’re amazing.” He realised what came out of his mouth and his face dropped, Kuai Liang was looking at him with an amused smile on his face. “They- they’re amazing. I mean. Sorry. Sorry.”

What is wrong with me today?

“Well, that comes to $60 all together,” Kuai Liang stated without missing a beat. Raiden reached into his pocket, passing Kuai the money he required. He opened the cash register, placing the money in and waiting for a receipt to print. Once it had, Raiden noticed he picked up a pen from the desk and wrote something on it. He didn’t think too much of it, probably just had to tick some boxes or something. He took the receipt as Kuai Liang passed it to him and said “thank you and I hope your friends like them.”

“I’m sure they will.” He gave a little bow of respect. “Thank you again.”

He might have rushed a little too quickly to the door so as not to make even more of a fool of himself. He gave a massive sigh as he went back out into the fresh air. From across the street, he saw Kung Lao.

“Hey- wow.” Kung Lao stood mouth agape at him. “Okay, going to be honest, those are way nicer than I was expecting.” He put his hand under his chin, and smirked. “How much did those cost you?”

“$60,” Raiden explained and Kung Lao blinked.

“Wait? Seriously? Only 60? When I looked it up online it was all saying in the 100’s?” Kung Lao questioned and Raiden snorted.

“You probably got results for wedding bouquets, they always put up the price for weddings,” he laughed, but it seemed Kung Lao wasn’t having it.

“Let me see the receipt.” Lao held out his hand to demand it. Raiden rolled his eyes and placed it into his hand.

Lao looked at it, eyes scanning before he reached the bottom and his eyebrow raised.

“Uh. Raiden? Have you actually looked at this?”

Raiden was confused, taking the receipt back and scanning it himself. Down at the bottom, in handwriting, was a series of numbers, sighed “call me ;) KL xx”.

“Oh.” He chuckled nervously, and there was the heat again, only now he could feel it down his neck and chest as well. His eyes were wide as he looked at Kung Lao. “Oh.”

“Seems like you managed to pick up more than flowers, huh?” Kung Lao gave him a very pronounced overdramatic wink and Raiden groaned.

“Shut up,” he muttered as he began to walk off, but he carefully put the receipt in his pocket so he didn’t lose it.

“I get to be your best man right?” Lao continued and Raiden groaned.

“Shut uppppp,” he whined, trying to drown out Lao’s teasing. Despite that though, he did find himself smiling. Maybe his awkwardness had come off as charming or otherwise endearing. It didn’t matter, all he knew was he was definitely giving that phone number a call later.

[harringrovetrashrat]

The Gobbler II: The Witching Hour

Harringrove Big Bang 2021 is here!!! A huge thanks to @harringrovebigbang for organizing this!  Also a huge thanks to my team, @monsdasarah and @catharrington, who did the art and moodboard, respectively.

But without further ado, here we go.  The Gobbler II.  Time to get cracky.

Steve wasn’t counting the days until the full moon. He wasn’t.

Fine, he was. He was thinking about Billy at pretty much every chance he got. Because, while the blow job had been fucking mind blowing, Billy was… Billy had insisted on them hanging out some, going over rules and such, as well as sharing emergency information should anything happen while Billy wasn’t in control. And Billy was funny. He was smart. He was an asshole.

Check, check, check. Each box for Steve’s Horny/Falling Deeply in Love list had been checked and Steve was struggling. He could deal with Billy being hot, a lot of people were hot, and Steve could get over that. Hell, he’d thought Robin was hot until she very kindly turned him down. But the problem was that Billy wasn’t just hot. Steve liked him. Liked him, liked him. Third grade schoolyard liked him. Because while Billy was snarky and rude and a total dick when he wanted to be, Steve could tell he had a good heart. He saw it in the care Billy took with him regarding everything with The Gobbler. Saw it when Billy mentioned his sister and his eyes softened, even if he called her a shitbird. Hell, Steve watched Billy step over an ant hill instead of on it and his knees went weak.

He was fucked and he knew it.

“I still don’t know,” Robin said, brow furrowed with worry. Steve was finishing up the garlands she needed, weaving together the hay and wheat so flowers could be intertwined safely without fear of them falling out. He sighed and set down the garland before stretching out his fingers.

“Robin--”

“I know, I know,” she said, cutting him off with a sigh as she paced back and forth in the living room while he worked. “But I don’t fucking trust him! And while I’m glad you won’t be traversing the woods--” She cut herself off, eyes narrowing. “You’re both staying inside, yeah? You’re not planning on going looking for it are you?” Steve rolled his eyes.

“We aren’t going to look for The Gobbler in the woods. We won’t even look at the woods.” Steve felt bad, just a bit, when Robin visibly calmed from the reaffirmation, though she did continue to pace. He knew she was just worried about him, but still. He did know what he was doing. Mostly. Enough. Steve stood and wiped off his hands before halting her movements by pulling her into a hug. “I know you’re worried,” he mumbled into her hair. He pulled back, giving her a smile. “But seriously. It’s gonna be okay. I know you don’t trust him, but do you trust me?” Robin scoffed, rolling her eyes a little with a small, fond smile. “Actually, don’t answer that.”

“I was gonna say,” she replied with a smirk. “You don’t exactly have the best track record.” She let out a sigh, enough nervous energy finally leaving her body for her to plop onto the couch. “But I get it. I know you won’t let him do anything you don’t like, but I just… Something is… off.” She shook her head as Steve looked away, choosing to go back to finishing the garland instead of responding. Robin was right, and while Steve wasn’t a bad liar by any means, she knew him too well. Robin looked. She listened. She saw his nervous tics and heard the words he didn’t say. So instead, he said nothing and finished the garland as she checked through her notebook and made sure everything was accounted for.

By the time Steve finished, Robin was done packing up the rest of her things.

“Hope tonight goes well,” Steve said, giving her another quick, firm hug as they stood in the doorway. He pulled back, grinning wide. “Say hi to Heather for me,” he said sweetly, getting a shove from Robin as her face turned red.

“Oh my god,” she groaned. “Shut up!” Still, she smiled, and gave Steve a softer, more playful shove. “Have a good night. Don’t stink up the house with your boy fumes.” Steve snorted and shook his head.

“Billy and I both smell great, thank you.” Robin rolled her eyes and headed out, hopping onto her bike and waving one last time as she rode off. Steve waved until he could no longer see her, sighing happily as he went back in the house. It was only a moment however before he kicked it into overdrive. Steve ran to the living room, shoving everything away. He wanted things to be clean and ready, anything breakable moved out of the way. He had no idea how the night was going to pan out, no idea if Billy would even go for him again. How did the curse even work? Would he need a different dick every month? Would their plan even work?

Steve decided that he didn’t care. That they would figure it out. That he would figure this out, no matter what. Billy acted cool and unbothered, but it was obvious that this curse made him… Unhappy wasn’t the right word, but neither was disgusted. Uncomfortable, maybe? Steve could work it out later; right now, he needed to focus on getting the house Gobbler proofed.

Steve was up and out of his seat in record time when he heard the doorbell ring. He had to stop himself in the entryway and take a few deep breaths. It was probably weird how excited he was. How much he wanted this. But, Steve had a crush, a big one, and he was known to have poor judgement when he was into someone. Steve ran his hand through his hair before finally opening the door.

“I was wondering if you were gonna stand there forever or let me in,” Billy joked as he stepped into the house and brushed Steve’s shoulder with his. Steve flushed as he remembered the stained glass window in the front door, where Billy probably saw him run up and stop. He swallowed his embarrassment and followed Billy to the living room. While he had been over a few times, they usually had met up at Billy’s place. Robin’s distrust of Billy made him nervous, put him on edge, so he didn’t like coming to Steve’s often. Which sucked. But today Billy was here. He was here and he was standing in Steve’s living room, looking around with a small smile. “You and Buckley decorate like fucking grandmas,” he said, turning to give Steve a teasing smile, tongue caught between his teeth. It made Steve’s heart stutter.

Yeah, he was royally fucked. This was probably the worst idea he’d ever had.

He was still gonna do it.

“You should do an open mic, really, with all those zingers,” Steve replied. Billy cackled and Steve smirked back. “C’mon. We can come back down here to order pizza and put on something, but I, uh,” he faltered, turning a little red. “I figure you can put your bag in my room?” His nerves made it sound like a question, but he wasn’t the only one feeling a little funny about it, since Billy also went red. He blushed down his neck and Steve wondered how far down it went. To his collarbone? His nips? Steve cleared his throat and gestured to the stairs, leading Billy up silently.

“It’s a nice house,” Billy said quietly, breaking through the tension. “Grandma accents aside.” Steve snorted and opened the door to his room, suddenly anxious for Billy to like it. He had plants on plants, pots on every shelf, every nook, every cranny. Herbs lined his window sill, along with a few succulents. Steve loved plants. Loved the energy they brought. His parents had hated how he had loved to be in the dirt, to feel the magic of earth and nurse it, keep it thriving and strong. They were white magic users, full of spectacle and grace. Steve, well, wasn’t.

The rest of his room was somewhat bland, lots of greens and blues, the wood of his bed frame and desk a nice light brown. Billy looked around, eyes a little wide, setting his bag on Steve’s made bed. His room was cluttered, but organized, and Billy seemed amused at all the little knick knacks Steve had.

“Wow,” Billy breathed. “I don’t know why but I expected more plaid.”

“I don’t know whether to take offense to that or not,” Steve replied with a grin. Billy shrugged, his smile easy going.

“Your choice.” Billy went to the window, looking out at the garden in the backyard. “I’m gonna assume you’re the one who did the garden too?” Steve joined him by the window, looking down.

“Kind of. I do a lot of the gardening, but Robin helps a lot. We like to have native species of plants, and I hate nettles, so she’s the one who deals with them.” It was nice, talking to Billy. He seemed genuinely curious to know Steve and he hadn’t had anyone this interested in him since school, when he still reaped the benefits that came from his last name.

“Native species?” Billy asked, turning to Steve.

“Oh, I could go on for hours, you don’t want--” Steve began, face flushing.

“Dude,” Billy said, huffing slightly as he turned to face Steve more. “I like hearing what you have to say, okay? You don’t gotta censor yourself for me.” And there it was. The soft nougaty bit of Billy Hargrove that made Steve feel soft and squishy and seen.

“Well, why don’t we order the pizza and then we can talk?” Steve asked. He wanted to get out of his room before he shoved Billy onto the bed here and now. Steve had an inkling that Billy felt the same, but he was incredibly nervous that he was just reading too much into the situation. So instead of facing his feelings like an adult, Steve turned and headed downstairs, hearing Billy’s heavier footsteps behind him. He grabbed the phone out of the cradle, punching in the phone number for the best pizza place in town. “What do you like on your pizza?”

“Pineapple and onion. I can do ham or no ham.” Billy said it casually, like he hadn’t just spouted out the most disgusting combo Steve had ever heard.

“Oh, dude, I dunno. That’s crossing a damn line--” Steve began, aghast at the idea of pineapple on pizza, much less paired with onion.

“It’s good!” Billy protested with a pout. “Listen, order a medium one and then whatever your dainty tastebuds want. You’re gonna try it and I know you’re gonna like it.” Steve gave him a blank look, unimpressed and unconvinced. Billy just crossed his arms and raised a brow, tilting his head. Steve sighed and when Benny picked up the phone, he ordered.

When the pizzas arrived (pineapple and onion for Billy, while Steve got the olives and green peppers), Billy sat Steve down on the couch, handed him a slice, and sat on the coffee table, staring intently. Steve eyed the pizza, then Billy, then the pizza again.

“Trust me,” Billy said. “It’s good.” Steve sighed and rolled his eyes dramatically before daintily going in for a bite. “That’s a fucking nibble, get some of all of it, asshole.” Steve shot Billy an exasperated look, but he did take a real bite. And… Fuck. That smug asshole was right. The acidity and tart sweetness of the pineapple paired well with the sweet onion and the acidity of the tomato sauce. It was savory and sweet, with some good crunch, and Steve couldn’t help his surprised groan, staring at the pizza in shock. Billy made a choked noise and Steve looked at him, eyes wide.

“It is good,” Steve replied, taking another bite. Billy’s face was flushed, but Steve didn’t pay much attention, snarfing up his slice quickly.

“Told you,” Billy said, grin wide and proud. “It’s good shit. I know my food, dude.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Steve said through his mouthful of pizza. “You win this one, Blue.” At that, Billy paused, giving Steve a confused but curious look.

“Blue?” Steve blushed and realized he’d never actually said that nickname out loud before. Not in real life, at least.

“Yeah, uh, like your uh, your eyes,” Steve stammered out. Billy looked at him, silent, looking torn about something. Finally, his face settled and he snorted, shaking his head.

“Should I call you Brown?” Billy asked, snatching up a slice for himself. Steve fake gagged.

“Oh god no, please don’t.”

“Sure thing, Brown Eyes.”

“Billy, I literally said--”

“You said not to call you Brown. This is different.” Steve groaned while Billy smirked around the string of cheese connecting his lips to the pizza. They continued to joke around while they ate, Billy flinging the olives off his slices, like they had personally offended him. Eventually though, it was starting to get dark. Steve could see the tension and stress building inside Billy as the night went forward, inching closer and closer to the peak of the moon.

“Do you know when it’ll happen?” Steve asked. The pizza boxes had been broken down and put into the compost bin, all the leftovers wrapped in foil and put away. The sun had set and the only light in the house was from the multiple lamps Steve had. Billy had been subdued for the last hour, getting lost in his head. Steve knew because he did the same thing. “Just, like, is it a set time or does it depend on the season?”

“9 PM,” Billy replied softly, his earlier mirth replaced with concern and anxiety. “You don’t have to do this. You really don’t.” They’d had this talk multiple times, but Steve could see the weight on Billy’s shoulders. He knew how it felt to feel like a burden, so he reached out and took Billy’s hand.

“Maybe we met in some weird ways, but you’re my friend.” Billy looked at him, eyes shining a bit. “I wanna help you with this, and if we have a way to keep you inside and distracted all night? Why wouldn’t we?”

“But--”

“You aren’t forcing me into anything, Billy. This is a choice I am making. Clear headed and sure.” Billy visibly relaxed, sagging a little. Steve kept hold of Billy’s hand, giving it a squeeze. “You wanna go up to my room?” Billy went red at that, flushing down his neck again.

“Yeah.” They walked up in relative silence, tension creeping again, but this time it was different. Steve felt electricity on his skin, felt heat curl in his belly. Billy sat on the edge of Steve’s bed, already looking out of it. “You can strip and leave your clothes on the dresser if you want,” Steve suggested. Billy just nodded, standing up. He stripped slowly, turning his back to Steve like they weren’t about to have sex. Still, Steve let Billy have his privacy. He did catch a glimpse of Billy’s ass, toned and tight, and he licked his lips, mouth suddenly dry and sticky.

“Thank you,” Billy whispered, and if it hadn’t been so quiet in the room, Steve wasn’t sure he would have heard him. Steve nodded, reaching behind him to find Billy’s hand and squeeze. There was a sharp intake of breath and a squeeze back. Looking back at the clock on his nightstand it said 8:59. Steve very suddenly was hit with the vivid memory of his torn jeans last time, and he scrambled to get out of his clothes.

“Shit!” Steve hissed. “God damn it!” He was nearly tripping out of his pants when he heard a low growl start from behind him. He paused, hairs standing on end in anticipation. He knew it was Billy but there was something so different about the timber of the noise. Steve turned to look behind him and Billy was standing there, head hung, hair gone limp, staring at Steve from under his brow. It sent a shiver through Steve, right to his dick. “Hey there,” he said, voice shaky. The Gobbler staggered forward, looking out of depth in these surroundings.

“Schm...eat…?” Steve let out a puff of breath, nervous laughter bubbling in his throat.

“Schmeat,” Steve replied with a nod. It was like flipping a switch. One moment, he was Billy, nervous and and ansty, the next, he was The Gobbler. It showed in the way he seemed to have a singular drive, a singular purpose. The way he heard Steve’s confirmation and everything else seemed to leave The Gobbler’s mind except getting Steve laid out. Strong arms hoisted him up and Steve let out a small squeak of air. “The bed! Put me on the bed!” He said, since The Gobbler was eyeing the window. He landed on the mattress with an oof, looking up as The Gobbler crawled on top of him. It was quick, a blink and he was above Steve.

“Schmeat. Hole.” Steve’s brows shot up.

“Hole? I thought you just sucked?” Did Billy-- The Gobbler wanna fuck him? Like, he definitely wasn’t against that, but he thought Billy had mentioned it was more an oral craving that anything else. The Gobbler growled again, moving down to nose at Steve’s balls. “Oh, shit,” Steve gasped. That was fast. He could feel drool dripping onto his groin and, while he was already getting hard, the process went a little quicker at the feeling.

“Hole,” The Gobbler repeated, more insistent this time.

“Okay?” Steve replied, because he really didn’t--

And then he was suddenly flipped over, face down, ass up, with his cheeks spread, saliva dripping down his crack.

“Oh,” Steve gasped. That’s what he meant. The warm spit cooled in the air of the room, sending a shudder up Steve’s spine. He grunted, arching his back a little. “Fuck yeah,” he breathed out. It ended in a choked off stutter when he felt a wet, hot tongue drag itself over his hole. He could feel the rumble as The Gobbler growled once again, this one less aggressive and more lustful. “That all big guy?” Steve teased, honestly a little desperate to feel more. “C’mon, go at--” Steve cried out when he felt lips against his hole, sucking the skin. “Ohmygodohmygod,” Steve chanted, suddenly painfully erect. He hadn’t been expecting that at all and holy shit did it feel good.

Steve’s reactions were paid no mind as The Gobbler pressed his face into Steve’s ass, a low moan rumbling from his chest. He was salivating, spit already dribbling down Steve’s taint to his balls. He sucked at Steve’s hole, leaving a hickey just to the right of it. Steve keened, dick already starting to leak. Apparently, they weren’t wasting any time today. The Gobbler slurped up his drool, lapping at Steve’s hole, which was already starting to look red and puffy. Steve gripped the sheets, holding on for the ride as The Gobbler’s tongue started making long broad strokes up his crack. Each lick was hot and wet and left Steve shaking. He could feel sweat beading at his temples and on his back. There was a grunt and Steve’s hips were shifted, ass tilted up more. The sting of the burn from the mustache grazing across his skin paired so perfectly with the soft velvet of the tongue soothing over it. Steve’s mind was already fogging over, eyes going a little hazy.

“Shit,” he murmured into his pillow, each stroke of the tongue pulling tiny gasps and moans from him. The sounds alone drove him wild and Steve wished he could grab his dick and stroke, but honestly he had no idea if he would be allowed. Wondered too if he could cum just from this. It was looking quite likely. Especially as The Gobbler started wiggling his tongue inside him, licking into his hole desperately. Steve was loosening up, but apparently it wasn’t enough, seeing as there was a whine from behind him and a nose pushing even harder into his crack. The wiggling was teasing and light, a steady pressure that was driving Steve a little mad. He pushed back, a whimper escaping his lips and fuck, there. He could feel the tongue wiggle in just a little farther as he pushed back, getting another moan from behind him. “Yeah, yeah, fuck,” Steve moaned, starting to steadily roll his hips back against The Gobbler’s face. The hands on his cheeks gripped a little tighter, maybe even enough to bruise. Steve selfishly hoped so.

The Gobbler began to fuck Steve with his tongue, each thrust opening Steve up more and more. He could feel spit dribbling down his crack, down his balls, dripping onto the sheets. His dick was hard, so fucking hard, and Steve tilted his head to look down. There were tiny globs and strings of pre coming from his cock, leaving a small growing stain on the sheets as well. Steve was definitely gonna have to do some laundry after this.

With harsh, heavy breaths, The Gobbler finally pulled back. Already Steve had a poor sense of time, and with his brain steadily melting into a pile of warm, blissed out goo, he had no idea how long The Gobbler had been eating his ass. Like it was his last meal and he was a starving man. Steve couldn’t help the desperate whine that escaped his throat, or the way his ass pushed back, seeking that hot tongue. He jerked when there was cool air blown onto his hole. The Gobbler switched between blowing on the cooling spit dripping down Steve’s taint and his now red and loose asshole. It made Steve shake, made his thighs tremble as sounds were pulled out from deep inside his chest ah, ah, ah. It had him gritting his teeth and clutching the sheets so tightly his knuckles were white. Teeth grazed along the meat of his ass, gently nipping at the skin and making Steve jerk forward with each light sting of teeth. The Gobbler started to suck, marking up Steve’s ass with his mouth like he didn’t know any other way to do it.

Not that Steve was complaining. Like, at all. His ass was probably gonna give him plenty of trouble tomorrow, but he couldn’t find the energy to care. Not when this felt so good. He gasped, sweat dripping down his face and onto the pillow below him as The Gobbler dove in again. Steve’s hands twisted in the sheets, moans practically leaking from his throat at the tongue wiggling it’s way into his asshole again. He was so loose, and just from his tongue. Even the thought made him shudder as more precome leaked from his dick, adding to the stain already spreading on the sheets. When The Gobbler pulled away for air, Steve could feel his asshole flutter, desperate for something to fill it again. He actually yelled when suddenly there was a finger pushing into him. It paused, hesitant, and Steve pushed back against it, hips moving as he fucked himself. A glob of spit slid down his crack and the finger pushed it inside him.

“Oh god,” Steve cried out, feeling his balls start to tighten. “Oh god, oh god, oh god--” And suddenly a hand clamped around the base of his dick, keeping him from cumming. Steve whined, loud and long, starting to turn over and push himself up.

“Mine!” The Gobbler snarled and pressed against his back, pushing him down into the mattress. Steve inhaled sharply as his finger shoved in farther, curling it up as he pulled it out.

“Fuck!” Steve screamed, unable to cum but feeling so fucking desperate. “B-Billy! Please!” He didn’t even really register that he’d called him Billy. Didn’t feel the desperation in the way the second finger pushed in, a little early. But Steve just made a low sound of pleasure, relishing in the burn of the stretch. It was the perfect amount to accentuate the pleasure without overpowering it.

The Gobbler panted into Steve’s ear and he could feel the drool dripping down onto the junction of his neck and shoulder. It shouldn’t have been so hot. Steve shuddered, feeling The Gobbler’s erection grazing against his ass cheek. He wanted it at least between his cheeks if it wasn’t gonna go inside. But The Gobbler didn’t even seem concerned with his own erection, just with touching Steve. He mouthed at Steve’s neck and between his shoulder blades, fingering Steve slowly. The tenderness of the kisses and the changed pace altered the feeling completely, and suddenly it was intimate. The pads of The Gobbler’s fingers massaged his prostate and Steve’s back arched. His hair was nearly wet with sweat, the whole room reeking of musk and sex. Goosebumps pebbled his skin as a shock went through him, the world focused to the sheets below him and Billy, The Gobbler, pressed up close behind him. The Gobbler took his fingers out slowly, pulling back. Steve whined, arm reaching out behind him. But instead, hands grabbed his hips and helped turn him over.

Hair splayed out around him, sheets mussed and wrinkled from being twisted and wrenched tight in his fists, Steve lay there, gazing up at The Gobbler. He hovered above him, hair draping down and shadowing his face. Still, his eyes shone bright, staring into Steve’s so intensely it made his dick leak. It was angry and red, throbbing as it bobbed, nothing giving him enough satisfaction to come. The Gobbler grinned, ducking down to suck one of Steve’s nipples into his mouth. Steve arched into it, hand gripping the back of his head. The Gobbler groaned, low and rumbling, hips rolling and his hard cock smeared pre along the vee of Steve’s hips. Steve was mush. Utter mush. His face was flushed and his eyes were glazed as The Gobbler went down, down, down and finally took Steve’s aching dick into his mouth. With one hard, wet suck, The Gobbler’s head bobbing only one time, Steve came with a shout that stuttered into silence. He came so hard his vision went white for a second. The Gobbler swallowed around him, drool mixed with jizz leaking from the corners of his mouth as he humped the sheets, fast and ruthless. Steve’s toes curled and his legs spasmed, knees tightening around The Gobbler’s ribs.

There was a loud slurp and a smack as The Gobbler pulled off Steve’s dick, letting it flop onto his groin, wet, shiny and softening. He swallowed audibly, letting out a moan as he came into the sheets, damp with sweat and drool. Steve watched him through half lidded eyes, watching as Billy blinked away the remains of The Gobbler. Steve smiled as his favorite pair of blue eyes turned to him, staring at him in awe. He wasn’t sure what other emotions he was seeing; he was too tired to discern much.

“You have got one hell of a tongue,” Steve slurred out. Billy continued to stare at him, eyes wide.

“You… You said my name,” he stammered out. Steve blinked at him, honestly drained and finding it hard to figure out just what Billy meant. And then, as sleep overtook him, it clicked. Fuck.

Steve woke up with a jolt and a sharp inhale. He blinked, looking out his window where the sky was still dark. He sat up, already starting to feel how sore his ass was. Billy must have gone ham on the biting and stubble rubbing, because he felt kinda raw. A good raw though, something that made him smile a bit at each tiny twing.

Then Steve remembered that he had actually shown his whole ass by moaning Billy’s name and a chill went down his spine. Billy wasn’t in the room, wasn’t on the bed, but Steve saw that his jeans were still on the floor, and it made him relax a bit. He got up, tossing on an old shirt and some sweats, before making his way downstairs quietly. The clock read 4:45, so Steve had definitely conked out deeply after he came. Billy wasn’t in the kitchen, but when Steve went into the living room, he saw Billy sitting by the window in the large armchair. He was resting his chin on his fist, just staring at the forest behind the house, lost in his thoughts. He had a glass of water on the table next to him, and didn’t look upset, so Steve took that as a good sign to start. He was quiet as he walked closer, pausing when Billy sighed heavily.

“I can hear you thinking from there, Steve,” Billy said quietly, without any heat.

“Sorry,” Steve replied on reflex. He sat down on the couch, watching as Billy continued to gaze out the window. “I--”

“Why did you say my name,” Billy asked, voice quiet and unsure. Steve looked down at his hands, pulling and tugging at each other as he wrung them together. He didn’t know quite what to say. It would have been weird to call out Gobbler, but he knew what Billy meant. In fact, was kinda shocked he even remembered.

“I… I mean, it won’t change my answer either way, and I don’t mean it as like-- Fuck,” Steve grumbled, rubbing his forehead with his hand. “How do you remember that? I thought--”

“I get… Bits. Not everything. I’m able to remember small things and feelings and small clips, but mostly it’s hazy. I can’t piece it all together. But,” Billy took a breath, deep and bracing. “I didn’t imagine that part, did I?” His voice was calm and unannoyed, but Steve still felt his stomach wriggling around inside him.

“No. You didn’t. I… Billy, I’m selfish,” Steve began, words coming out on a shaky breath. But this needed to be said. And he needed to apologize. “The first time this happened I mean… I hadn’t gotten laid in ages and you were hot and so it worked out. But this… time I--”

“Steve--” Billy said, voice laced with hurt and curiosity.

“Please,” Steve got out, cutting Billy off. “Let me. Let me say it all and then we can. We can talk.” Steve sniffed, rubbing his sweaty palms on his thighs. “This past month getting to know you has been so incredible. You’re a smart guy, just enough of an asshole, and you… You listen to me. And you care. The first thing you were concerned about last month was me, even though you’re under a spell forced to do a bunch of weird shit! Me! You were concerned about me!” Steve could feel Billy watching him, but eye contact would make his throat close up and maybe make him vomit, so he kept them at the table. “I know we don’t know each other super well -- I mean, it’s only been a month -- but I… You’re an interesting person and I fucking like you. I like you so much, Billy. All of you. Seriously.” Steve let out a long breath, closing his eyes to focus on getting the lump in his throat small enough that he could talk. “You need someone to help you and I… I’m too selfish to say no, even though I should because you--”

“Fucking christ, Steve,” Billy said, voice closer than it should be. Steve’s head snapped up and Billy was across the coffee table, leaning forward and bracing himself as he gazed at Steve. He didn’t look mad, didn’t look annoyed. Looked more fond than anything else and Steve felt his stomach do flips that were more along the neutral vein than flips that felt like he was about to start weeping. “You gotta let me get a word in.” Steve looked away again, apology ready to tumble from his lips, but Billy’s hand came and tilted his chin up, making him lose all ability to form thoughts, much less words. “Just to, yanno, condense all that, you said my name because you… you wanted it to be me?” Steve nodded, feeling his cheeks heat up. But when Billy smiled, relieved and excited and hopeful… It was so bright and overwhelming, Steve’s heart started fluttering, all of his insides squirming in joy and delight. “I’ve been so fucking worried. Because I really thought you were just… Humoring me. That this was you feeling like you maybe had to, or just to get some dick while you could--”

“I would never--” Steve began, horrified at the idea of using this against Billy.

“I know,” Billy replied gently, brushing his thumb over Steve’s cheekbone. “I know. It’s happened enough before I was worried I was being swayed into some false sense of security, but,” Billy let out a huffy laugh, smile going soft, “But this is just you. You’re just like this.”

“Like what?” Steve asked, unable to raise his voice above a whisper as he looked at Billy. Took in everything about him in the soft light of the moon. There was a shift in the air, something beautiful and new coming into fruition. Magic fluttered around them, Steve could feel it, bright and eager. It made the house feel warmer, feel fuller, and Steve’s breaths started coming in a little heavier. It took more energy to pull it in, but it was filling and exciting, making his skin tingle and thrum. His fingers itched to run over Billy’s skin. Which, come to think of it, he could do.

“Kind. Good. Silly.” Billy listed, pupils dilating as he moved around the coffee table, hand never leaving Steve’s face. Steve was grateful, unsure he could handle the feeling of loss if Billy had stopped touching him. As Billy sat, Steve’s hand came to settle at the small of Billy’s back, fire sparking in his gut and heart as their skin touched. Billy’s breath came in shaky, stuttering, and Steve leaned closer, their foreheads touching. “When you’re as hot as I am,” and some of the tensions eased at that, a snort escaping Steve before he could stop it, the magic shifting from something waiting for a spark to something more grounded. The feeling of hearth and home. “Yeah yeah,” Billy replied with a grin, “I know, I know. But really. People… Don’t see the person behind the abs.” It was silly, but Steve understood what he meant. Understood the struggle of people not just being blind to the person inside the body, but refusing to look beyond what they saw. “So thank you. For not being like everyone else.” Billy kissed him then and--

Steve was a witch, had been born into magic and felt it thrumming inside him. He’d been open to magic all his life, had felt the shift in magic during the change of the seasons, had done spells that had filled the room with power. Steve had seen amazing feats and more, but this kiss sent something through him. Something strong and vibrant and like nothing he’d ever felt. A crashing wave of signals and comments from the Earth and the magic within. He was overwhelmed with everything that coursed through him from the chaste kiss, hand pressing Billy closer as he tilted his head, mouth opening slowly. The kiss wasn’t hurried. It wasn’t hot and heavy. But it made Steve’s skin prickle with goosebumps, made his heart race and his lungs squeeze. He pressed closer, feeling Billy’s hand drop from his cheek to his shoulder, thumb brushing over his collar bone. It was a languid kiss, drawn out between a drag of the tongue, a light bite, the shared breaths between them.

When Billy finally pulled back, Steve knew his cheeks were flushed and he was panting just a little. It would have been embarrassing if Billy wasn’t also blushing, all the way down to his chest.

“I think,” Steve said, trying to catch his breath. “I think that we should go on a real date.” Billy’s laugh was bright in response, his head falling to rest at the junction of Steve’s neck and shoulder.

“Of course,” he breathed out. “Of course that’s what you’d say first.” Before Steve could even pretend to be offended, Billy kissed his neck, soft and sweet, his mustache dragging along Steve’s skin just a bit. “I’d love that. I’d love that a lot. But maybe we should get some sleep first, Brown Eyes.” Steve could feel the energy draining out of Billy now that the air had been cleared, and sleep started to tug at him as well. Even as he rolled his eyes at Billy’s simple nickname. However, he would have been lying had he said it didn’t thrill him and make his insides flutter.

“I think that’s a good idea,” Steve said in agreement. They moved together, hands still grabbing gently at each other, both of them unable to separate for long, if at all. It was like the truth had magnetized them and they just couldn’t fight the need to connect. They fell into the bed, smiling and warm and excited, ready for what this change would do for them.

As much as Steve wanted a languid morning filled with slow kisses and gentle touches in the lazy morning sun, Billy had places to be. Specifically, helping his sister Max.

“She’s moving in with her boyfriend, finally,” Billy replied when Steve asked, mouth full of egg and toast. It should have been gross, but Steve only found it endearing. “I won’t say I think it’s their best idea, but they’re at least keeping separate rooms. I know Max needs her own space.” Steve nodded, using the corner of his toast to burst the yolk of his fried egg.

“It’s good of you to help out,” Steve said, dipping his toast into the yolk as he cut through the egg with the edge of his fork.

“More like it’s required because I missed helping her move into her last place. Not like I was fucking sick or anything.” He set down his fork, plate already clean, before downing the coffee in the mug before him. “Sorry to eat and go, I would really rather stay here and--”

“It’s fine, it’s fine,” Steve said with a chuckle. He was also eager to talk more about them, but promises made were promises kept. “We have plenty of time, yeah? I mean, you can always come back here later,” Steve purred, thrilling a bit when Billy’s cheeks flushed.

“Don’t tempt me or I won’t leave,” Billy said, standing and leaning down to cup Steve’s cheek, kissing him lightly.

“That a promise?” They were distracted by the door opening, separating slowly. Robin came in as Billy was leaving the kitchen, both of them awkwardly giving the other space while pretending they weren’t doing just that. “How’d it go?”

“We’ll see this winter,” Robin replied, snatching the last bit of his egg between her fingers and quickly shoving it into her mouth.

“Hey!”

“Snooze you lose, dingus,” she said with a grin. “Last night go...okay? Anything happen?” She searched his eyes for any hint of deception and, for once, Steve wasn’t really worried about what she’d find.

“Kind of?” Steve said, mouth tugging into a smile. Robin furrowed her brow. “Nothing bad, seriously, all good things.”

“Steve?” Billy asked, knocking on the door frame. Steve stood and went over, leaning in close. “I gotta head out, but I’ll text you later, okay?”

“Sounds good, Blue,” Steve replied. Billy just smiled, eyes darting to Robin for a moment before he ducked in for a kiss.

“Catch ya later, Brown Eyes,” Billy replied as he headed out the door. Steve rolle dhis eyes, but really couldn’t help the smile on his face. Billy left with a wave and wink, disappearing into his car, and leaving Steve feeling smitten on the doorstep. He watched Billy’s car go, jumping when Robin’s voice came from right behind him.

“So that’s what happened, huh?” She asked, voice lightly amused. Steve blushed and shut the door, turning to give her a sheepish look.

“I did say it wasn’t bad.” When Robin didn’t reply with a quip, Steve paused, smile freezing on his face. “Rob?”

“I’m happy for you, Steve, really, I am,” she said, and Steve could hear the ‘but…’ coming from a mile away. “But I still think you need to be careful.”

“Robin, please--”

“It’s not about me trusting him this time.” Steve looked up at that, curious. “It’s because… Steve. I’ve only seen you this smitten with one other person in my life, and that was Nancy.” That. That made Steve freeze. He’d loved Nancy fiercely, too fiercely, and had been utterly smashed when she’d broken it off. Had been depressed for months. “I don’t want you to get hurt.”

“Oh.” Steve wasn’t sure how to respond. Because he didn’t think he was that attached yet. Even if the idea of never talking to Billy again made it hard to breathe and made his lungs tighten and made his eyes water--

Oh fuck, Steve thought.

[cuttoothed]

Written for @aspecmartinweek, for the prompt “First”, for which I am overwhelmingly late. Featuring sex neutral ace Martin, sex averse ace Jon, brief discussion of sexual boundaries. and every first date cliché I could think to cram in. 

*

Jon brings him flowers, on their first official date. They meet at a little park not far from the Institute, and Martin’s been waiting there almost ten minutes when Jon appears, walking hurriedly towards him with one arm tucked oddly behind his back. 

“About time,” Martin is about to say, when Jon’s hand sweeps forward, and the words are lost in his throat. 

The flowers are bold white daisies, their heads nodding gracefully, with sprays of small yellow blossoms peeking out in between. Jon presents it to him with near schoolboy awkwardness, his cheeks red and scarcely able to meet Martin’s eyes. 

“They reminded me of you,” he says, obstinately, as if daring Martin to deny it. 

Martin doesn’t know what to say. Nobody’s ever brought him flowers before. In fact, he’s not sure he’s ever had flowers. There are a few succulents in his flat, and an aspidistra that he bought ironically during his Orwell phase and has been stubbornly keeping alive since, but he’s never had the knack for blooming plants. And he’s always been too embarrassed to buy cut flowers, as if the salesperson might know he was buying them for himself and judge him accordingly.  

There’s something charming and old fashioned and utterly Jon about the gesture, and Martin scolds himself as he feels tears start to sting his eyes. 

“What are they?” he asks as a distraction, lifting them to his nose. The blooms smell sweet, like honey, with an earthy hint.   

“Oxeye daisies,” says Jon, “And goldenrod. I—you don’t mind, do you? I know it’s a bit of a cliché. We can get rid of them—”

“No!” Martin is surprised by his own vehemence. “No, they’re lovely. Thank you. At least now I know why you didn’t want to leave work together—I thought you were trying to keep it off the Institute gossip vine.”

“Why would I want to do that?” Jon frowns, genuinely confused, and a tender warmth swells in Martin’s chest.  

*

Jon’s made reservations at an Italian restaurant. Once they’re seated, Martin places the flowers carefully down by his feet, and looks around. The place is cozy and intimate, the tables set with candles, warm lamplight and low music. 

“This place is nice,” he says, picking up a menu. “Have you been here before?”

“Oh, no,” says Jon. “But I’ve walked past it plenty of times, and I always thought it seemed like a date sort of place?”   

It is, Martin supposes. Most of the tables are two-person, and most of the other patrons appear to be couples, leaning close to each other in the candlelight, laughing and drinking wine. It’s all very traditionally romantic, and Martin is suddenly extremely aware that he and Jon are on a date. He feels a bit foolish, because of course he knew, but until now it’s been easy to think of it as just...him and Jon. Walking somewhere to eat, like they do for lunch a couple of times a week, talking about unimportant things. 

This isn’t that, though. This is flowers and a candlelit dinner, and all of this with Jon, and Martin has no idea what to do. He’s never been any good at dating. Relationships, sure—for a certain value of good—but the bit at the start, where you talk about interests and share details of your lives and gauge if this is a person you want to actually know better? Not his strong suit. Martin never knows how much to share, and when, and whether the first date is the right time to have the “so...about the whole ‘sex’ thing” talk or if he should wait for the third, and— 

“Everything all right?” Jon asks. 

“Yes, fine! Why?”

“You just looked a bit...wild eyed there. Like you’d seen a ghost.” 

“I thought you didn’t believe in ghosts?”

“It depends what you mean by a ghost,” says Jon, his brow furrowing seriously, and then he’s off explaining theories of psychic trauma manifestations in specific locations, which is entirely different from the concept of an actual human soul lingering in the world, his hands cutting the air to illustrate his point, and it’s just them again, and honestly Martin could listen to Jon talk like this all day. 

It’s lovely, after that. The food is tasty, and the glass of wine Martin drinks softens away any lingering nervousness, and Jon looks extraordinarily good by candlelight, the shadows sketching his cheekbones and jaw, the light sparking in the depths of his brown eyes. The only thing that Martin takes exception to is when Jon tries to pay for the entire meal. 

“Don’t be ridiculous,” Martin tells him, “We’ll split it.”

“I invited you, so I pay,” Jon persists. “You can pay next time.” 

In the end he gets his way, because Jonathan Sims is possibly the most stubborn human being Martin has ever met, but Martin wins the concession that he will buy ice cream afterwards. He takes them to the little ice cream shop a few streets from the Institute, and Jon looks flustered and pleased when Martin, feeling bold, places the order for both of them. 

“I can’t believe you remembered,” he says softly. His hand touches Martin’s as he takes his cup of rum and raisin, lingering for just an instant, and Martin feels his face go hot. 

“Of course I did.”

*

They walk along the Embankment as they eat their ice cream. The sun is beginning to set, the street lights flickering on, casting bright shards across the surface of the river, and Martin realizes it’s been over three hours since they met in the park. It feels it’s been no time at all, talking easily, sharing little pieces of themselves back and forth. It feels like Martin could stay like this forever.

He stops to toss his empty ice cream cup in the bin, the flowers tucked into the crook of his arm, and when he turns back, Jon is looking at him oddly. The way he looks at a document that he can’t quite figure out, intent and curious. 

“What?” he says.

“Could I kiss you?”

“Oh,” says Martin intelligently. “Yes, please?” 

Jon huffs a surprised laugh, and then he takes a step closer, his hand pressing to Martin’s cheek. His eyes are dark and depthless in the twilight. His lips brush against Martin’s, dry and soft and still tasting of sweet rum flavor. When he pulls back, Martin tries to remember how to breathe, Jon’s palm still warm against his skin.

“Was that—”

“Yeah,” Martin says before Jon can even finish. “That was good.” 

*

They get on the Tube together, since they’re in the same direction for a while. It’s busy, so they stand gripping the handrails, close together in the press of people. Martin holds his flowers against his chest, doing his best to protect them from jostling bodies. There are a lot of things Martin wants to say, things he wants to whisper in Jon’s ear or tell him while looking deep into his eyes, but this isn’t the right place, so he holds them against his chest as well.

The intercom scratchily announces the next station, and Jon clears his throat.

“Well, this is me,” he says. “I’ll...see you tomorrow?”

His voice is quiet and hopeful, as he starts to shuffle towards the door, and that warm feeling is filling up all the space behind Martin’s rib cage. He doesn’t want this to end yet.

“Hang on,” he says, as the train slows to a halt. He moves towards the exit as well, ignoring Jon’s startled glance, and when the doors slide open, he steps off onto the platform. “Coming?”

The doors shut behind them and the train glides away. They stand there for a few moments, while the other disembarking passengers disperse, and then Jon says:

“What are you doing?” 

“I’d like to walk you home,” says Martin. “You’re not far from here, right?” 

“But this isn’t your stop.”

Martin shrugs. “It’s not that much out of the way. And I want to. After you bought dinner, and brought me these,” he lifts his slightly battered flowers. “Maybe I get to do the cliché thing for this part of the date? If it’s okay with you?” 

Jon huffs a breath, and the look he gives Martin is halfway between defensive and apologetic. Martin knows that look, the “this was nice, but…” look, and god, he can’t have been so wrong about all this, can he? 

“I...this has been a—a lovely evening, Martin,” says Jon. “Truly. But I—I don’t want to give you the wrong impression, so I have to tell you now that I...don’t do the, ahh, the sexual aspects of a relationship. I’m sorry, I should have been upfront about this sooner—” 

“I know that,” Martin says. 

“Sorry?”

“I know, Jon. Or, well, not know, but there was some...office gossip?”

“Oh.” 

“Sorry, I should have probably said something earlier. I, umm, I don’t either? Not much, at least. I mean I can, if it’s important to the person I’m with? I don’t mind sex. But I’d just as soon not. So, yeah.”

“Oh,” says Jon again. He looks stunned. Martin gives him what he hopes is an encouraging smile.

“I really do just want to walk you home, I promise.”

“R-right. I see.” Jon still looks a little stupefied, but relieved along with it, the tension in his jaw relaxing. “In that case...thank you, Martin. I’d like that.”

*

They walk the quiet suburban streets towards Jon’s flat, meeting no one but a startled looking fox that bolts into the bushes. They don’t talk for a while, but it’s a comfortable silence. At some point, Martin feels Jon’s hand brush against his, and Jon’s fingers tangle with his own. He looks across, and Jon is smiling shyly at him. That warm feeling inside his chest surges, fizzing up and over and spilling out as a laugh of pure joy. 

“I can’t believe you thought I was planning to seduce you,” he says. “As if I’m anywhere near suave enough for that!”

“I happen to think you’re very charming,” says Jon with mock affront, frowning, while a smile twitches at the corners of his mouth. “I’m sure you could seduce someone if you put your mind to it.”

“I’ll keep that one in my back pocket, then, just in case I ever have to become an international man of mystery.”

“Good idea,” Jon says solemnly, twining his fingers further with Martin’s. 

At last they reach a three storey house with a little patch of garden in the front, and buzzers at the door for the different flats. 

“This is actually me,” says Jon. “Unless...you’d like to come in for a cup of tea?”

“Isn’t coffee the proper convention here?” Martin asks, and Jon laughs.

“Traditionally I don’t think the beverage is the point,” he says, “But if you fancy an actual cup of tea…?” 

“That sounds lovely,” says Martin. It sounds more than lovely, if it lets him spend more time with Jon; it sounds like the best idea in the world. 

Their hands are still clasped together as they walk to the front door, and Martin pauses, tugs on Jon’s hand to stop him too. 

“All right?” Jon asks with a tiny frown. 

“Just one more first date cliché I think we should respect,” he replies seriously. “The kiss on the doorstep.” 

He leans in, and Jon moves to meet him, and it’s just as soft and heart pounding as their first kiss on the riverbank. Jon gives him a little smile when they part.

“You know, the kiss on the doorstep usually signifies the end of the date,” he says, unlocking the door. “But in this case, I think we can break the tradition.”

“Sounds good to me,” Martin laughs, and follows him inside for tea.

[basicallywhiterice]

moonlight (xu minghao)

Genre: Fluff, one scene with angst, college!au, graduation!au, established relationship, moving in together

Summary: Your relationship with Minghao, told through phone calls

Word count: 2k

Warnings: One cuss word I think

a/n: This is lowkey the foil to sunny but the plots are completely unrelated. Happy Minghao day y’all

D-17.

You wake up to a phone call from Minghao.

“Good morning!” he chirps. You respond with a noncommittal grunt. “Aw, baby. Rise and shine!”

“Five more minutes,” you yawn, turning over in your bed.

“C’mon, chop-chop. Get your exams over with! Get that bread, get that head, then leave.”

You still want to go back to sleep, but Minghao’s ridiculousness makes you open your eyes. “You want me to get that head? When you’re a hundred miles away?” Static. “That’s what I thought,” you grin, closing your eyes as another yawn escapes your mouth.

“Hey hey hey, don’t fall asleep on me again. You got this. Turn your camera on!”

“Why?”

“So I can see your beautiful face,” he sing-songs. A grin spreads across your face almost involuntarily—after three years of dating Minghao, simple statements like these never fail to make you happy. It’s because of how genuine he is, you think. He means it from the bottom of his heart. “Plus, you’ll have a harder time falling asleep again.”

“If you insist.” You sit up, turn your camera on, and prop your phone up on your blankets. Minghao pops up on screen a few moments later. “Hey.”

The call freezes for a second, displaying a pixelated jumble of his smiling face, before it resumes to show him blowing a kiss at you. “Hey.”

You blow one back, feeling the sleepiness leave your body. “Mm. Last day of exams. Can’t wait to get this shit over with.”

“That’s the spirit!” His grin is contagious, and you can’t help but break into a smile yourself.

“Thank you for cheering me up, Minghao. You just helped me start my day right.” Minghao’s the more laid-back person in your relationship, but he has no problem being your personal hypeman. He’s good at it, too—he never fails to brighten your day.

“Thank you for overcoming your sleepiness for me, baby.”

“Mhm, just for you. I think I’m gonna take a quick shower before I finish my exams.”

“Can I join?”

“Minghao!” You burst out laughing. Minghao grins.

“Hey, at least you’re fully awake now, right?”

“Oh my god, you dork. Anyways, what are you doing today?”

He explains some of his new designs and marvels at the amount of creative freedom his upcoming project has. Before you know it, it’s 8:28 and Minghao has to leave to catch the metro. You say your goodbyes like normal.

“I love you, Minghao.”

“I love you, y/n.”

You pause before you hit the ‘end call’ button. “I’ll see you soon.”

D-13.

Sometimes, you wonder if suffering through two years of graduate school was worth it.

Then, you remember the job offer you landed a few months ago, and the long hours seem like a small price to pay. Getting a job in New York City is no small task, and your learning through your graduate program certainly helped.

Plus, listening to Minghao get excited about how you’re finally moving in makes the process sound more than worth it, no matter how long it took.

“—so I asked my boss for the afternoon off to pick you up, and she said yes! And I was super happy, and she was super happy that I was happy, you know? She also suggested getting flowers—do you want flowers? I told her you don’t like flowers because they’re impractical, but I can get you a bouquet if you want, if you’ve changed your mind. Or I could get a flowerpot for our apartment. Or do you want a succulent for our apartment? They’re cute—”

“Minghao, calm down. Take a deep breath.” You wait until you hear his exaggerated huffing and puffing, and you smile. Minghao talks a mile a minute when he gets excited, but you love it. “Great. I’d love to get a plant for our apartment. I’m bringing my cactus with me, so we could draw cute faces on the flowerpots and have them be friends.”

“Didn’t you already draw something on your cactus’ pot, though?”

“Yeah, but there’s plenty of space to add on. Wait, let me show you.” You stand, padding toward your window and throwing open the curtains. Outside, the faint streaks of sunset paint the sky, illuminated by the fading glow of daylight. You grab your cactus from the window sill and walk back to your desk, holding it up to your phone.

“Oh, I like all the doodles,” Minghao remarks as you turn your plant this way and that. When you show him the back, where you’ve painted a crescent moon, his eyes soften. “You painted a moon on there.”

When Minghao graduated and left for New York, he promised that he’d always be there for you in spirit. After all, he had said, when you could look up to the same moon he saw, it was almost like he was there with you. “Whenever it’s cloudy at night or when there’s a new moon and I can’t see the moon, I just look at this instead,” you admit, running your finger over the paint.

“God, I’m so in love with you.”

“I know,” you smile softly, looking back up at your phone screen. “That’s exactly how I feel about you.”

“I know.”

Minghao stays on the phone with you for ten more minutes before he hangs up to go grocery shopping.

“I’ll see you soon, Minghao,” you say before you end the call.

Outside, the moon hasn’t risen yet, the sky an inky black. Tonight, though, you don’t need to watch the moon to deal with missing Minghao. Tonight, you sit back, content with waiting thirteen more days to see him.

D-10.

“I’m always so worried that this might be the last time I see my friends,” you whisper into the silence. It’s nearing midnight, but your mind is racing. You just got back from a long dinner with your friends and classmates, which was a fun affair, but now existential dread is creeping up on you.

“I felt the same way when I first graduated,” Minghao admits. You’re Facetiming him again, but your phone lays flat on your bed as you shuffle around, trying to drink in all the details of your room before you have to leave. “I still worry that I’ll never see some of them again. But they’re always one text away, and I make time to see everyone important to me.”

“Yeah. True.” You sigh. “Still, though. I’m gonna miss everyone. I miss you too, you know, even though I’ll be in New York soon.”

“I know. I miss you every day.”

You fall back onto your bed, grabbing your phone and holding it above your face. “I don’t… I don’t want to suffer through missing my friends while knowing that we probably won’t live in the same city again, you know? Missing you is slightly more bearable because I know we’ll end up in the same place, but there’s no guarantee for everyone else.”

“Yeah, and it sucks. But you’ll still be in touch with them, and you’ll make new friends.”

“Yeah.”

“Yeah.”

In the middle of the night, after you hang up and you’re all alone, you gaze up at the moon for strength.

D-5.

After walking across the stage and throwing your graduation cap in the air, you’re finally free from school. You don’t have much time to talk to Minghao—your day is packed with ceremonies and parties—but he’s just as excited as you are.

“Two years and I’m done!” you half-shout over the chattering in the background.

“I’m so proud of you, baby. Show me your graduation cap!”

You pluck it off your head and hold it in front of you with one hand, rotating it this way and that like a steering wheel. “It’s about the same as the undergraduate cap. I did get this hood, though. It almost feels like a cape.”

“You could be a superhero that has caffeine for blood, or something, and your kryptonite could be history tests.”

“God, don’t remind me of those. I’m free now, remember?”

You talk for a few more minutes before your friends remind you of the graduation party at 4 pm, and you have to hang up to get ready. Before you hang up, Minghao bombards you with reminders of how proud he is, before you finally have to go.

“I’ll see you soon,” he says.

D-1.

“Really? You’re still doing last-minute packing?” Minghao asks as you throw some shoes into your suitcase.

“Shh, I blame you for distracting me with late-night calls.”

“You find me to be distracting?”

You roll your eyes, ducking down to grab your folded towels and plop them on your bed. “Mhm, always have. Don’t get cocky, though.”

He’s smirking when you look back to the phone screen.

“Minghao! I just said not to get cocky.”

“C’mon, let me have this moment.”

You sigh dramatically, glancing around your nearly-empty room and making a mental checklist of things to pack in the morning. “You’ll get to the airport at 2 tomorrow, right?”

“Yeah. Terminal C, right?”

“Right. Can’t wait to C you then.” He groans, and you can’t help but prolong the joke. “Get it? C you?”

“I feel so bad for your roommates. I bet you tortured them with constant bad puns during exam season.”

“No comment.”

At 8:21, your roommate Jieqiong starts the last movie night you’ll share together, and you bid Minghao goodbye. Still, you find comfort in the fact that this is the last goodnight you’ll send over Facetime for a long time.

“I’ll see you tomorrow, Minghao,” you say, blowing him a kiss.

“See you tomorrow.”

D-Day.

“I just got done picking up my suitcases,” you say, slipping an earbud into your right ear as you drop your phone in your pocket. As you grab the handles of your luggage, you scan the baggage claim area for an exit and start walking toward the sliding doors at the end of the row of conveyors.

“Awesome, I just saw some people walk out,” Minghao says. “I’m here waiting.”

Suddenly, you feel very small as the gravity of the situation weighs on you. Minghao is behind those doors, waiting. You’re about to start a new life together, staying in the same city for the first time in two years. “What if I can’t find you?” you all but whisper, halting your footsteps.

“Then we’ll just keep looking for each other. Take your time, baby.”

“I—yeah, okay.” You will your legs to move again. “Will you stay on the call with me?”

“Of course.”

“Okay.” A comfortable silence falls as you pass the exit checkpoint, stepping out of the sliding doors to the pickup area. “Okay, I just walked outside and—”

And then your gaze falls on a certain young man wearing a top in your favorite shade of light blue. What catches your attention is the poster he’s holding, with ‘my moon’ written on it in loopy handwriting and a cartoon moon doodled next to it.

Your face nearly splits open from how wide your smile is.

“I see you.”

Day 1.

You wake up with your face pressed into Minghao’s chest.

“Good morning,” you whisper. “Are you awake?”

Minghao groans. “Five more minutes,” he mutters. “What time is it?”

You glance around the room until you find his clock on his bedside table. “9:45. We have lots of time before we have to meet my parents for lunch.”

“Mm. Good.” He wraps an arm around your waist. “I’m glad you’re here, sleepyhead.”

You scoot closer. “You’re the one asking for more sleep, mister.”

“You’re the one who’s warm and soft and cuddly. I love you, y/n.”

Closing your eyes, you nuzzle your head into his chest and relax into his embrace. “I love you, Minghao.”

[vannahfanfics]

A Fairy’s First Flight

Category: General Fluff

Fandom: My Hero Academia

Characters: Eri, Shinso Hitoshi, Izuku Midoriya

Afternoon, everyone! Today I’m dropping a special story that I did for a Children’s Day promotion hosted by Apples and Unicorns: An Eri Zine where kind Twitter user bunbun1241 donated to our fund to donate to our chosen charity! 

Eri fisted the skirt of her costume nervously, worrying her bottom lip with her teeth while staring hesitantly at the house in front of her. She stood at the end of the driveway, watching children in colorful, fun costumes march up and down the concrete to the front door. A woman dressed as a witch smiled brightly in contrast to the puke-green make-up and warty nose she bore, dropping wrapped candies into the childrens’ waiting baskets before waving them off. Unlike her peers, however, Eri was hesitant to venture up to the door, and hence she dilly-dallied next to the mailbox, nearly tearing the lace from the tutu of her fairy costume. 

“What’s the matter, Eri?” Izuku smiled while kneeling down next to her, placing a warm hand on her back. Eri bent back into his touch, pouting sheepishly while fixating on the house. “Don’t you want to get some candy? It’s Halloween!” 

“Yes,” the girl said petulantly and scuffed the concrete with the toes of her ballet flats, “but I’m nervous.” Shinso kneeled at her other side, popping the plastic vampire teeth out of his mouth so he could speak. 

“There’s no need to be nervous,” he told her with a gentle pat of her hair, careful, however, to avoid displacing the fairy tiara settled into her silver tresses. He smiled sweetly when she gave him a doubtful pout. “I know it can be intimidating, though, since it’s your first Halloween. Would you like Izuku and I to go with you?” 

Eri nodded, tears beading in the corners of her eyes with her mounting anxiety. The two older boys stood up and held out their hands, and Eri immediately looped her fingers with theirs. They were careful to match their strides to Eri’s little stubby ones; Shinso’s vampire cape billowed behind him like fluttering black bats in the wind, while Izuku’s mummy costume trailed wisps of bandages behind his feet. Eri had to giggle at the image of a pretty fairy princess being escorted by two monsters, which helped to lighten her mood at least a little bit while they walked up the driveway. 

Eri balked again, however, when they turned to the small pathway leading up to the small concrete porch. The woman in the witch costume smiled pleasantly, and even though Eri knew that it was just a costume, the scary get-up made her grin seem menacing. Eri squished herself against Shinso’s leg when they stopped at the threshold of the door, looking up at the woman with watery red eyes. 

“Now, what do we have here? A fairy princess and two monsters? Now that’s a sight you don’t see every day!” the woman said. Eri just blinked, smearing tears over the fabric of Shinso’s pants. “Aw, dear, there’s no need to cry. I know I look scary, but I promise that I’m a good witch!” the woman chortled. She really did seem genuine, Eri thought, prompting her to reluctantly peel herself away from Shinso’s leg. “Oh, my, there she is! What a pretty little fairy you are.” 

“Thank you,” Eri mumbled with a bashful smile, now hiding her face in Izuku’s leg to conceal her blush. 

“What do you say, Eri?” Izuku prompted kindly. Eri played with one of the tendrils of bandages wrapping his person, smiling bashfully at the woman. 

“Trick or treat,” she said finally and held out her candy basket, which was fashioned in the effigy of a purple pumpkin. Mina and Ochako had hot-glued flowers and lace on it to make it more worthy of a fairy princess.

“Here you go, dear!” 

The woman dropped several candies into her bucket. Eri pulled it back to peer inside, curious about the wrapped sweets. She was so absorbed in inspecting them that she forgot her manners until Shinso gently nudged her with his elbow. 

“Oh! Thank you!” 

“Bye-bye now!” the woman trilled, waving as the three of them turned around. Eri fished out a candy from her bucket while walking back down to the sidewalk between the two teenagers; it was some wrapped taffy. The image on the wrapper made her mouth water, prompting her to stop and open it up. She popped it into her mouth, then released a satisfied “mmm” as the succulent taste of cherry burst over her tongue. She chomped on the chewy candy for several minutes, turning it into a gum under her teeth, while Izuku and Shinso smiled amusedly down at her. 

“So, would you like to go get some more candy, Eri?” Shinso asked. Reminded of what the night was for, Eri nodded emphatically and hurriedly scooped up her candy bucket. She still chewed on the taffy as she took off running for the next house, here fairy wings bouncing on her back with every feverish step. She had to get lots and lots of candy so she could share it with everyone when she got back!

Enjoy this oneshot? Feel free to peruse my Table of Contents!

[aphrodites-law]

A Bit of Clarity 🍂 (9/?) The visions had started last autumn, a year ago now. It had caused a bit of chaos for some, a bit of clarity for others. Two days ago, Clarke Griffin had been perfectly fine managing both her Café and her stress. But now she was curious - so deeply curious about the vision of herself entwined with the aloof Lexa Woods that it was leading her to complete distraction. (ao3)

[part 1] [part 2] [part 3] [part 4] [part 5] [part 6] [part 7] [part 8]

When she opened the café the following week, Clarke didn't expect the first customer to be Gustus. He walked toward her with a slight hunch in his shoulders, holding a large paper bag in front of him.

"Hello, Clarke."

"Hi, Gustus. How are you?"

"Lexa said you were looking for help in the kitchen. Am I too late?"

Clarke blinked in surprise. "Not at all."

Gustus set the bag on the counter. "I don't have much of an education and I don't know proper baking terms. I haven’t worked for anyone in twenty-five years, but I have made and sold baked goods on my family's apiary since my childhood."

He pulled out several containers. "I've brought honey muffins, blueberry tartlets, and a chocolate-walnut pie. Please, have a taste when you can."

"You're… applying to work here?"

Gustus nodded. "I'd like to help in the kitchen."

It was certainly unorthodox, but they had yet to find anyone and Clarke's mouth had already watered at the smell of the pie.  

"Gustus, are you sure this is what you want? The hours can be long and we can't afford to negotiate on salary for now."

"Money doesn't matter to me. I have my own land and grow my own food."

"What about your apiary?"

"A hobby more than a business these days. The market made me realize how much I miss…" His eyebrows furrowed as he thought of the word.

"People?" Clarke guessed.

He stroked his beard. "But not so much that I would leave the kitchen."

Clarke chuckled. "I see why Lexa likes you."

"She may pretend otherwise, but Lexa enjoys company too. She would not write the way she does if it weren’t the case."

"No, I don't suppose she would."

They both looked toward the entrance when a customer walked in. Gustus moved to the side.

"I won't keep you longer. Thank you for humoring an old beekeeper."

"Wells will have the final word, but he's badgered me to get more of your honey so the odds are definitely in your favor."

Gustus inclined his head gratefully, a heartwarming sight given he was a foot taller than Clarke and quite intimidating at first glance.

"Have a good day, Clarke."

"You too. And thanks for the treats!"

* * *

Clarke walked over to Lexa's table later that afternoon, finding her deep in research on her laptop with her half-eaten croissant on her plate. They hadn't been able to speak much between orders, but Lexa had looked her way at times and Clarke had managed to catch her eyes. Each time made her stomach swoop, but Clarke was determined to be the one to surprise her for once.

She put her hand on her shoulder and kissed her cheek.

"Hi, you."

Lexa turned her head with a slight blush. "Hello."

Clarke sat in front of her, propping her chin on her hand. "Oh I get a hello today. Very formal."

"Is hello formal now?"

"With that tone and those glasses? Yes."

Lexa took off her reading glasses. "Am I being kicked out?"

"Not at all. Stay as long as you want. You can even stay after closing hours."

Lexa's eyes fell to her lips- Clarke's knowing grin. "I don't think that's a good idea."

"Mm probably not."

Lexa closed her laptop. "So. Saturday. Doors open at 7pm."

Clarke sat up. "I'm excited. Though Wells has already warned me he'll poison my coffee if I drop any spoilers."

Lexa had offered tickets to Lincoln's play again, though this time she had made it very clear she intended it as a date. Clarke was thrilled to go to the theater after so long, especially since the play was fully booked for a solid six months. Nowhere Ground was a critical darling and word of mouth had worked like a charm.

"I was thinking we could hit Cocoa Street after," Lexa suggested. "Try some of the food trucks?"

"A woman after my heart."

Lexa smiled, her hand inching toward Clarke's on the table. "I figured I'd keep the upscale restaurant for our third date."

"Oh there'll be a third date?"

Lexa looked up from their hands, fingers not quite yet touching. "I would hope so."

"Well I don't know, I'll have to see if you have game."

"I thought you'd gotten a preview already." Lexa's fingers brushed against hers.

Clarke bit her lip. "Not that kind of game."

"What kind, Clarke?" Lexa asked smoothly as her thumb brushed over the back of Clarke's hand.  

Clarke shook her head and sat back, letting go of Lexa's hand. "Nu-uh. I'm not falling for that again."

"What's that?"

"That- look. And your voice. You know what."

Lexa let out a small laugh. "I really don't."

"It's like a switch you have. It drives me crazy. But I'm not falling for it. I see you."

"Alright, I'll just be broody and quiet then." Lexa cleared her throat, amused. "Did Gus stop by today?"

Clarke brightened. "Yes. Speaking of, very sneaky of you. Wells is already raving about the chocolate-walnut pie."

"I'm glad. Gus kept asking me if he should make more. I'd never heard him so nervous."

"I didn't even know he baked."

"Never in a professional setting like this, but I can vouch for his impeccable manners. And his food."

"How did you meet him anyway?"

Lexa picked up the last bite of her croissant. "When I was doing research on the Mountain Men, I found out his property is the closest to the bunker site. A few miles down the mountain but still - I figured he had some information that could help me. I introduced myself; said I wanted to honor their story…"

"And you charmed your way into his life," Clarke guessed in a fond tone.  She still had a few minutes before Gaia started side-eying her for flirting on the clock (not that it was a regular instance, but Lexa did come in often these days…) and then got Harper to ask endless questions to fuel their gossip mill. "I'm glad you did. I think he'd fit right in."

Lexa nodded, giving her a soft smile while they lingered in their last few seconds of privacy.

* * *

When Saturday night finally came, Clarke thought she might burst from the anticipation. Lexa lived close to the theater, so Clarke had suggested she be the one to pick her up before they walked over. She'd settled on her fancier boots, tights and a red dress, ever aware of the increasingly cold nights. She had her coat on but left it open when she finally arrived, fully leaning on the power of her own cleavage tonight. Slow didn't mean she couldn't have her fun.

"Wow. Um. Hi," Lexa breathed out as soon as she opened the door, eyes darting south of Clarke's lips.  

"Now I get a hi," Clarke replied with a grin. She extended the flowers she'd brought on the way. "For you."

"Oh they're beautiful," Lexa said, genuinely surprised. Clarke wondered if she’d ever gotten flowers based on that expression alone. "Thank you," Lexa murmured.

"You're welcome," Clarke hummed. She waited for Lexa to come closer to reach for the sleeve of her shirt. "This is new."

"You don't like it?" Lexa asked.

Clarke almost scoffed. She was fairly certain Lexa knew exactly what she was doing, with her tight slacks and her dark green shirt just a hint sheer enough to see the outline of her bra. Paired with her loose curls and faint perfume, Lexa was already making her dizzy and it was incredibly unfair.

"I didn't say that," Clarke replied, pretending not to notice Lexa was going to kiss her. "Aren't you going to invite me in?"

Lexa frowned briefly, only to smile a second later as she realized what game Clarke was playing. She'd asked for slow and it seemed like Clarke was taking it to heart. Perhaps a bit too much.

"Please, come in."

While Lexa went to find a vase, Clarke looked around. The apartment was on the small side, but during the day it was most likely brightly lit thanks to the two large windows. The balcony was filled with plants and flowers just as Gaia had once told her, but she hadn't mentioned the various hanging pots throughout the living room. Of course she couldn't have known. Clarke wasn’t sure if she was the first date Lexa had invited here since moving, but the progress in their relationship wasn’t lost on her. She’d never imagined being inside Lexa Woods’ apartment; not even when they’d started their little dance. It had seemed like another world. 

Lexa came back with a vase that she set on the table by the window. "They're lovely," she reiterated.

"If I'd known you were so into plants I would've gotten a succulent or something."

Lexa looked around. "Oh those - the hooks were already there when I got here. Indra said the woman before me used to hang candle lanterns. I think she's relieved this place isn't a fire hazard anymore."

"Gaia said you're her favorite tenant."

Lexa smiled sheepishly, but didn't further comment. She glanced at Clarke's neckline before clearing her throat.

"Are you ready?"

Clarke nodded. "Very."

Lexa stepped closer. "You know… I sort of imagined this going differently."

"Oh?" Clarke asked, rooted in place.

"I figured after we'd kissed things would become easier," Lexa explained as she stopped inches from Clarke.

"You imagined us kissing?"

"Yes," Lexa answered honestly. "But I told you that before."

Clarke remembered the confession Lexa had made that night at the café and felt desire pool in the pit of her stomach again. How she’d thought about her; how she’d wanted this- them. She reached for Lexa's shirt, pretending to toy with one of the small buttons.

"It seems like we imagined a lot of things you and I," Clarke replied, swallowing. 

Lexa brushed her nose against hers, testing her. Clarke felt her warm breath on her mouth and nearly tasted sweet mint. Her heart beat loudly in her ears until finally she gave in, tilting her head and pulling Lexa in.

The kiss was slow at first; Lexa's full lips pressing firmly against hers. Then Clarke felt her hand cup her neck and Lexa angle for something else, something deeper. She moaned when their tongues brushed and Lexa played with hers, chasing, teasing, while the lingering smell of the flowers mixed with her perfume and saturated Clarke's senses. It felt like she was drunk.

It wasn't the small hello or goodbye kisses they'd exchanged in the week; the hesitant pecks that had preceded the date that had seemed so far away on Monday.

"Are you sure this play is good?" She asked, slightly dazed.  

Lexa shook her head, kissing her once more. "It's horrible. Mediocre. Let's bail and stay in."

Clarke let out a small laugh before kissing her again, deeper and slower, wondering if her heart would ever calm down tonight.

"If only."

-

[part ten]

[bradshawwannebe]

Coffee and baby bunnies

Bucky Barnes x fem!englishteacher!Reader 

It’s weird when you have a best friend that suddenly doesn’t seem like a best friend. One look at him and you notice just how much you love him. Do you act on these feelings or should you just keep them to yourself?

Warnings: fluff and a mean little cat (based off of my own cat)

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

Waking up one morning and deciding that going to a coffee shop was good, it was a great idea. Right up until you stubbed your toe and thought you broke the nail on your pinky toe, again. Then you remembered you have an English class to teach at the local High School, and luckily your class doesn’t start until 7:00. Quickly glancing at the clock and it reading 6:30 caused you to get your butt into gear, slipping on some skinny jeans and a nice loose fitting black shirt you decided to slip on pointed toe red flats and doing some simple makeup as quickly as possible. Looking back at the clock and seeing that 10 minutes had passed you sighed ‘That’s a record’ you grabbed the daily necessities and your keys to go to the nearest open coffee shop available. Right after you fed and pet the little furball of a cat you called Pattie May wishing her a good day and asked her not to mess with pillows and plants too much, or at all.

It took all of ten minutes to see that your favorite cafe was open and grabbing your coffee and a croissant until you met a rock hard chest but thankfully saving the coffee. “I’m so sorry I wasn’t looking where I was going, are you okay?”  A low, deep chuckle is what you heard in response your fussing, out of humiliation your eye were facing the red shoes on your feet but the chuckle you heard irritated you, causing you to look up at the person to reprimand them for laughing at you, but when you saw who it was that fire quickly died and the blood spread across your face in an instant.

“It's a fine, doll, don’t worry about me, are you ok?” the man, er well The Winter Soldier, responded.

Your breath got caught in your throat and your heart skipped a beat at the sudden realization and words failed you, ‘So much for becoming an English teacher’. And with that you nodded with a, “Yes, I’m ok, uh thank you for asking Mr. Soldier… er uh Barnes, Uh I-I mean-” you were cut off before you could embarrass yourself any further, if that was possible.

“Bucky, my name’s Bucky,” jeez, what a voice.

“Bucky,” you breathed, testing the name out on your lips, and loving the way it felt,” right, sorry. Thank you, Bucky for asking and sorry for running into you but I really have to get going.”

“What’s your name?” he rushed out before you could turn away.

Telling Bucky your name, you walked out before you said something you’d regret.

And once at the school and in the security of your classroom, Levi, a freshman asked why you were so red and you blamed the coffee.

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

Since that day around a week ago, you’ve met at the same shop as often as possible, waking up earlier, getting dressed faster just to see Bucky. However today, numbers were exchanged and not even before you left the shop, you got a message from an unknown number, why numbers weren’t exchanged before was beyond your knowledge. 

“Hey, it’s Bucky.”

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

It’s been a month and yours and Bucky's friendship has blossomed, still a friendship but he has successfully been upgraded to ‘best friend’ seeing as you only have two other people that you talk to that aren’t students or work colleagues,and personally are your friends. “Hello, Earth to Y/N, are you still there?” the metal hand of Bucky Barnes waved in your face to get your attention. “Are you okay? You seem out of it.” His concern warmed your heart and you fought off a blush and grin from appearing on your face. “Yeah, Buck, I’m fine, what were you saying?” 

He eyed you a bit before answering, “I was asking how your class is.” Oh.

“It’s going okay, I stopped a few kids on the football team from snorting Smarties before anyone could do much damage,” you supplied the man. Explaining how snorting the candy worked when he gave you a confused expression. “Big dummy heads, the lot of them.”

“Isn’t calling students ‘dummy heads’ considered bullying?” he teased while sitting on a nearby bench in Central Park. you fixed him with a glare that didn’t last long before you decided that it was getting late and your bed was calling your name. 

“Actually, no, I wasn’t talking about them, per say,” you defended yourself, standing up and throwing the empty cappuccino cup in your hand in the nearby trash bin, “but it is getting late and I should most definitely be getting back to my apartment and grade some papers. See ya.” 

You didn’t notice that he had already stood up and he grabbed your wrist before you could move too far away. “I know you’re walking home and it’s New York and it’s a big city, so I could walk you home.” 

You glanced at your watch quickly before making a decision. “Ya know, yeah, why not? Plus, now you could meet Pattie May. Well Gabby and I call her May, but Jordyn just calls her cat. She’s a bit of a b-,” you said without taking a breath before realization dawned on you that you were rambling. A thing you did when you were excited or nervous. You went to state your realization before you were cut off. “You’re rambling again, doll.” 

“Whoops, sorry,” you stated with a slight shrug and a sheepish smile walking ahead to hide the inevitable yet traitorous blush on your face. You felt his presence as he sidled up beside you. The cool, autumn air couldn’t extinguish the fact that the man standing next to you could very well be a heater in disguise as you felt his warmth radiating off of him. Walking the trail out of Central Park you spotted the small bunny that sat off to the side of the trail. “Bucky, look, it’s a baby bunny!” you couldn’t contain your excitement. Spotting the small animal was probably one the most exciting things you did as a teenager, the excitement of seeing them never leaving  you, even as a fully grown adult. 

“It’s so tiny and adorable. Hey, do you think we touch him or her? I don’t know it’s gender but it’s cute.” The logic of stating your desire hit you and you suddenly felt like the dumbest person ever. Especially when the bunny saw you and took off out of fear. “Actually nevermind.” You didn’t miss the look of fondness on his face, the smile he gave you was like an award.

“Hey, you ok? You just kinda stopped talking,” you were actually slightly worried. And as if sensing your concern, or well simply answering you, he looks away.

“Yeah, the rabbit was just cute. So, my question is why I have never been to your apartment in the first place. You’ve been to mine countless times for movie night but I’ve never been to yours.” 

Shrugging you answered. “Now that I think about it, I don’t really know. Well then in that case, why don’t we have a movie night Friday? We could order pizza and find a movie on Netflix or something.” It's not the first time you’ve had a movie night with Bucky so it’s nothing unusual about the event. However, to say that you didn’t feel attracted to the man beside you would be a lie and to say that you didn’t have a small, but slightly large crush on him would be an even bigger lie.

“Yeah, is around 7 okay?” he asked already knowing that answer would be yes, and with a nod of your head you confirmed it, and the rest of the walk to your apartment was silent.

When you reached your apartment you convinced him to come in even if it was only for a second. Sliding off your shoes at the door in order to not track dirt or mud into the apartment, and asking Bucky to do the same. Doing as you asked he set his boots on the floor by the door. “Hey, so where’s that cat you were talking about? I want to meet her,” he spoke genuinely curious about the cat, and excusing yourself you went to go find her.

Bucky watched you walk out of the room stunned with the slightly messy papers on the table and the small bushy kitten on the couch that was glaring at him. He walked over to the flowers and various succulent plants that were resting by a bookcase of small knick knacks and books that scream the little perks of personality you left in the apartment, and he couldn’t help but notice some of the bears that graced a few of the shelves around your home and the bit of succulents that were on the ground, with little bite marks in the small chunks.  Then, suddenly there was a loud ‘bang’ drawing him out of his train of thought. “You alright, doll?” he wasn’t too worried, he could tell you were clumsy just by the continuous meetings at his favorite coffee shop and the movie nights at his apartment.

“I’m ok, don’t worry! Is May out there? I can’t find her in here.” he chuckled at your statement, assuming you stubbed your toe and a small thump followed with a string of curses.

“Yeah, she’s in here so try not to kill yourself coming out.” and with that he walked over to the small kitten that suddenly started standing up and purring at him. 

“Well, aren’t you a cutie?” he asked the fluff ball, reaching his hand out to pet her. Unfortunately for him he reached out his flesh hand, and the small kitten had already rolled onto her back attacking the supposedly offending hand.

“Ow, you little-” he was cut off when you walked into the living room and scolded the cat and carrying a squirt gun in your right hand.

“May! You know better, stop biting people that only want to show you affection,” he couldn’t help but think how domestic the situation was, the small cat no longer gnawing on his fingers but instead hugging his hand,”I’m sorry about her. She’s only a few months old and extremely playful. It doesn’t mean she hates you, I promise.” 

“She's cute so I think she can get away with it,” he teased with a small smile, and you smiled back. You stayed like that until the death ball meowed at you and decided to use your leg as a scratch post. 

“OW, you little brat! Fine, I’ll get your food just be nice, jeez,” excusing yourself you walked into the kitchen and opened the fridge. As soon as May heard the refrigerator open she was gone, followed by persistent squeaks that could only be described as demanding from the cat. 

“I know, I know, but you have dry food so why do you want this so bad? Oh well. Here you go, hun, eat up.” and almost as if the kitten was thanking you the meows ended with another squeak.

“Sorry, I give her some wet food in  the morning and at night and she is very vocal and demanding about it, but even then she's kind of polite,”  you explained, turning around in your kitchen only to be met with a hard chest. 

“Oof,sorry… again,” you said sheepishly, taking a few steps back. Bucky didn’t say anything except a follow up apology.

“You apologize too much.”

“Yeah, well… so do you, you giant,” you teased back.

“Well, you’re cute when you talk to animals.”

“Well, you’re cute when you think I don’t know when you're staring,” the playful banter suddenly turned into a confession of feelings within seconds, ‘wow, I really just said that.’ 

“Well, your glasses make you look cuter than when you wear your contacts.”

“Yeah? Well, I like you… a lot.”

“I bet I like you a lot more, sugar.”

“Not possible, soldier,” you sassed taking one step towards him. 

Taking one step closer you became chest to chest.

“I’m about to kiss you,” You whispered.

He smirked at that, “Not if I kiss you first,” and you he did. His lips felt so much better than in your dreams. Your arms snuck their way around his neck while his arms rested on your waist. However do to this pesky little thing called oxygen you had to pull away, even though you really didn’t want to.

“MEOW!” 

Looking down you both chuckled at the small furry kitten demanding something from, what that is you aren’t exactly sure. Bucky leaned down for another chaste kiss,” You think we could make Friday more of a date? I could pick you up at the same time and everything”

You nodded, agreeing with him and the time.

“Goodnight, doll, don’t stay up too late grading those. You’ll be tired by tomorrow morning,” he stated putting his shoes on and walking outside you following behind him to the door.

“Goodnight, Bucky, don’t worry, I’ll save them for tomorrow.” 

With one last kiss, he walked out the door, “maybe I’ll have the kids grade the papers”. 

[captainenjolras]

ThorBruce fic! Mostly fluff, maybe a little angst.

Summary: Thor throws Bruce an actual birthday party!

⚠️Slight TW for mentions of child abuse (barely tho but just in case)⚠️

“What’s that?”

Bruce looked over to where Thor was pointing. In a neighbors yard, he could see a bounce house, children running and about five boxes of pizza.

“Oh, it’s a birthday party.”

The scientist continued walking, unaware that his boyfriend was still watching.

“Thor,” asked a puzzled Bruce once he noticed that Thor’s hand wasn’t in his, “what’s up?”

“I’ve never seen a birthday party like that,” beamed the god. “Is that what they do here on Midgard?”

“Oh, yeah; you’ve seriously never seen one?”

“Well, I’ve had birthday parties back on Asgard, but they were never like this!”

“What were they like?”

“A bit more formal.”

“Ah; yeah here it’s just kinda a fun, casual day.”

“Did you ever have a birthday party,” asked Thor once they started walking again.

“Hmm? Oh, not really.”

“How come?”

Bruce tensed up a little when Thor asked him that. The god instantly remembered the reason and tried to change the subject.

“Anything interesting happen at work lately?”

“Umm, not really.”

The scientist tried to had the sadness in his voice, but it wasn’t really working. Still, Thor tried to cheer him up.

“One time on Asgard, Fandral and I were hunting and we thought we saw a bear! But guess what? It wasn’t! It was just a really hairy man!”

Bruce tried his best to give a genuine laugh, but he felt like he just couldn’t. Guilt washed over Thor as he watched his boyfriend put on a fake smile.

“Bruce,” he started, once they reached the crosswalk, “I’m really sorry. I didn’t mean to bring...that...up. I should’ve realized. I’m really sorry.”

“It’s not your fault,” Bruce assured him sorrowfully. “You didn’t know.”

“Hey, your birthday is in a week. I’m gonna make sure you have the best birthday of your life.”

“You don’t have to do that,” chuckled the scientist sadly. Thor places a gentle and caring hand to the mans cheek before speaking again.

“I know. But I want to. You deserve it. Bruce, you deserve the world. I love you.”

“...Thanks, Thor, but you don’t need to waste your time to celebrate just another day.”

“But it’s your birthday!”

“Birthdays happen everyday; why waste your time on mine? It’s fine, I just wanna...can we maybe head home now?”

Thor scanned the shorter mans anxious and sad face before nodding and taking his hand.

“I love you, Bruce.”

“I love you too, Thor.”

——————————————————————————

“Stark!”

Tony jumped at the sound of Thor’s booming voice.

“Jesus- I told you not to do that.”

“Many apologies; I need your help with something!”

“What’s up?”

The mechanic turned away from his work to see Thor standing a few feet away, notebook and pen in hand.

“...Is this an interview?”

“No, I just need to ask you a few questions.”

“That’s an interview, big guy.”

“Oh.”

“...So what do you need to know?”

“Do you know what Bruce might want for his birthday?”

Tony smirked before turning back to his work.

“He’s your boyfriend, Pointbreak. I hoped you’d know what he liked.”

“Oh, I do! I just didn’t know if he maybe told you anything that he wouldn’t mention to me, cause you’re bestrfriends and all.”

“He wants a ring on his finger,” mumbled Tony jokingly.

“Hmm?”

“Nothing; he never really mentioned anything. Maybe Nat would know? They’re real close.”

Thor thought for a minute before giving the mechanic a smile.

“Thank you, Anthony! Enjoy your work!”

——————————————————————————

“So you want us to help you come up with ideas for a gift for Bruce?”

“If you wouldn’t mind!”

Clint and Nat looked at each other before shrugging and turning back to Thor.

“Sure,” said Clint. “What were you thinking of?”

“Well, I’m not quite sure; that’s why I came to you guys!”

“Well,” started Natasha, taking the book and pen from Thor’s hands and drawing out columns, “let’s start by making a list of gifts that are “go” and “definitely not.””

“Good idea!”

“What’s some stuff he likes?”

“Well,” beamed the god, “he really likes The Office! He also really likes yoga and reading! Oh, and animals! And science, obviously! There’s also space, Disney, Broadway, the color purple, that one movie with the five kids in detention, flowers, the little house plants that Stephen has a lot of, old books, baking-“

“Let’s start with The Office.”

“Ok!”

“You could get him some merch, like a mug or hat.”

“That’s actually a good idea,” added Clint, taking the notebook and writing something down.

“And for yoga and reading,” said Nat, “you cold get him some books and a yoga mat.”

“That could work!”

“Any other ideas?”

“Well, Tony said something about a ring.”

“I-“

“Does Bruce like children, Thor?”

Nat slapped the man up the back of the head before turning back to Thor.

“You could get him a promise ring.”

“What’s that?”

“It’s a ring couples get each other sometimes, kinda like to show the other that they love them.”

“I like that idea!”

“So you think you’re gonna settle with that?”

“Yes! Thank you, Natasha! Thank you, Barton!”

——————————————————————————

“You want me to help you bake a cake?”

“If you will.”

Loki thought for a minute before looking up at his brother from his spot in the couch.

“If I give you the instructions, would I still have to help you?”

“No, I’m pretty sure I could handle it from there!”

“...Alright. Give me a piece of paper and a pen.”

Thor handed Loki his notebook. The other god looked down at the writting in confusion.

“Why do you need a mug, a mat, a book, a ring and children?”

“I don’t need children, Barton wrote that.”

“...What is this for?”

“Bruce’s birthday is soon!”

“Wait, you want ME to help YOU make a birthday cake?”

“You don’t have to if you don’t want to.”

“Thor, I’m a trickster. You really trust me to help you make a cake for your boyfriend?”

“Why wouldn’t I? You’re my brother!”

“...Trickster g- never mind. Just give me a pen.”

——————————————————————————

“Good morning, love.”

Bruce smiled as Thor pressed a kiss to his curls.

“Morning, Thor.”

“Happy birthday!”

“...That’s today?”

“Yes, silly!”

“Oh.”

“Here, let’s go to the living room; I have something I think you’ll like.”

Thor led his still sleepy boyfriend into their living room, covering his eyes as to not spoil the surprise. Once they reached the couch and sat down, Thor began to speak.

“Before I remove my hands, I need you to close your eyes. Now, I know you said I didn’t have to do anything for you today, but...that didn’t feel right. Over the week I had help from our friends to find something I’d think you’d like, and I came up with this. Ok, I’m removing my hands now, but PLEASE keep your eyes shut.”

Bruce nodded and closed his eyes as Thor’s gentle hands left his face. He heard the god walk away and quickly come back, standing between him and the coffee table.

“Open your eyes, love.”

The scientist slowly opened his eyes to see Thor holding a bunch of gifts. He couldn’t help but gasp a little at the action and let a small smile spread across his lips.

“You...you got this for me?”

“Of course! Would you like to see what I got?”

“Y-yes!”

Thor handed him one gift, which was wrapped tightly in paper. Bruce tore open the wrapping and admired his new books.

“Oh my god! Thor, thank you!”

“Would you like to see the other gifts?”

“Duh! You got more?”

“Of course! Here, I think you’ll like this one!”

The god handed the shorter man a bag, still balancing all the other stuff in his large arms. Bruce removed the tissue paper and pulled out a “worlds best boss” mug. What really made him smile though was the fact that Thor has crossed out “boss” and wrote “boyfriend.”

“Oh my god...”

“Do you like it?”

“Yes,” smiled Bruce, I little chocked up. “I love it.”

After the mug came a new yoga mat, a purple hoodie, a few succulents, a Disney movie collection, a Breakfast Club T-shirt, and a pack of glow-in-the-dark stars. Bruce was smiling wider than ever as Thor finally took a seat next to him.

“Thank you so much, Thor! I’m literally about to cry, I don’t deserve you.”

“You deserve the universe, Bruce...and there’s one more gift.”

Bruce shook his head with a laugh as he looked at his already many gifts. When he turned back to meet Thor’s eyes, the god was holding a small box.

“...What’s that?”

“It’s a promise ring,” smiled Thor as he opened the box. “Natasha told me that here on Midgard, couples get this for each other to show that they love each other. And I love you, Bruce. I love you more than anything.”

The scientist stared down at the small silver ring that his boyfriend held before looking back up with tears in his eyes.

“...Thank you, Thor. I-I love you, too. Oh god, I-“

Bruce wrapped Thor in a hug, resting his chin on his shoulder. The god placed a hand on the back of the scientist’s head and held him close.

“I love you so much, Bruce.”

“I love you too, Thor. Thank you so, so much. This is the best birthday ever.”

“It’s still not over. Also, there’s cake in the fridge.”

Bruce let out a small, genuine laugh before closing his eyes and melting into Thor’s hug.

[kamekamelea]

Planting a seed

This story was written for my dear fandom friend @shannaro-sakura ❤ this is my virtual hug for you and I hope it cheers you up a bit :)

(Big THANK YOUs go to @fm-white and @ashlyne-m for being awesome betas!)

(also, this is my first Zutara piece so this is exciting)

Summary:  Zuko turns out to be a cultivator, Katara learns what an "arbuz" is and everything becomes just a little bit sweeter.

read on AO3

~~~*~~~

Zuko had been waiting for this afternoon all week.

A week ago Katara announced her plans to stay in the palace after the summit the entire gang attended was over. Every night since that day, just before falling asleep, the young Fire Lord thought about her embarrassed smile as she asked if he’d be okay with her staying a bit longer. He almost gathered up the courage to hug her, to show her how okay he was with that.

After bidding their friends goodbye in the morning, the Fire Lord couldn’t have been more eager to get to work. There were a few crucial matters on his agenda for today and he rush through them to make it on time.

On time for afternoon tea with Katara.

The appointed hour was near and Zuko hurried to the gardens where he was supposed to meet his friend. He did, however, make a quick stop at his quarters to pick up a very important object—a surprise for Katara.

With the large package in hand, he stepped out of the palace straight onto a soft carpet of grass. Zuko breathed in the fresh air, a blissful relief after the morning spent stuck in his stuffy office. The sight of the old wisteria met him, the one Uncle Iroh claimed to be over a hundred years old, sagged under the weight of its flowers. The tree was really one of a kind—Zuko has never seen another tree bloom in blue.

No wonder Katara’s favourite spot in his gardens was the one right under the biggest branch of the indigo tree. She was already seated there, smiling at him over her book which Zuko recognized as one he recommended to her in one of his letters.

“I’m surprised to see you on time,” she said, skipping the pleasantries. They were too close friends to care about such trivial things as greetings. “I thought your ministers would long for you after you abandoned them for almost three weeks for some foreign delegations,” she said the word foreign with mock disdain, her lips twisted in a smirk. Sunlight danced on her crinkled nose and her cheeks were slightly flushed from the heat, and Zuko wished he had any artistic talent as he was hit with the sudden desire to capture the view.

He waved with disregard for his ministers, not caring about them at all at the moment. Before he could answer, Katara took notice of his pack.

“That’s a heavy looking bag. What is it?”

Zuko couldn’t stop the grin from appearing on his face, as he sat across from Katara and dropped the round package on the grass between them.

“Something special I’d like to share with you.”

Or rather brag about.

Katara’s eyes shone, and she raised her brows in anticipation, leaning closer to him. He took his time untying the strips on the bag, giving his friend a messy introduction in the meantime. “I’ve been hiding it for a few days—from the others—and before that I kept it a secret for more than a year. It became kind of a hobby for me,” he revealed. “Took me a long time to get to this point, and for now I’ve only managed to grow this one—that’s why I hid it, because I wanted to share it with you—” he finally uncovered the mysterious object, and turned his gaze to Katara, excited to see her reaction.

Zuko’s smile fell, seeing a sceptic frown on her face.

“A... melon?”

“Uhm...Technically, yes. But it’s different from a regular melon.” He took a glance at the globose fruit, the stripes of various greens shining in the sun. And then he remembered why Katara confused the name. “I know that’s how we called it on the Ember Island during the war, but that is not what it’s called. We call it ’arbuz’ here.”

She nodded, eyeing the fruit with genuine curiosity. “And what’s so special about this ‘arbuz’ again?”

“I grew it myself,” he said with an enthusiasm that suited a child more than a Fire Lord, but he didn’t feel embarrassed in front of her. “Have you ever tried this fruit?”

“No, I don’t think so. I remember blasting it with various attacks, but I didn’t care much for its consumption back then,” she chuckled. “But I know how a regular melon tastes.”

“This one is slightly different. Some call it a ’watermelon’, because it is 91% water.” He put an emphasis on the number and Katara was polite enough to show amused interest in the fun fact he provided. “And I thought…” He put his hands on the sides of the fruit to keep them from shaking. “I thought you might like it, because… you know… you like water,” he finished, his shoulders slumping from embarrassment.

Her frown deepened and his heart froze.

“So, because it is made of water, you figured I’m bound to like it?”

Heat rose up his neck, threatening to bloom on his cheeks. He tilted his head, showing the scarred side, hoping the redness wouldn’t be that evident there. Now that she said it out, loud it sounded so damn stupid.

“Umm...no. I mean yes… but like in a humorous way… I didn’t mean… did I offend you?” he eventually blurted out.

Giggles bursted out of Katara’s chest and she raised her hand to cover the open mouthed laughter. Zuko wished she didn’t—she looked so beautiful laughing in his gardens he forgot to be embarrassed.

“I’m just teasing.” She leaned closer and playfully tapped him on his thigh, and he felt his blush raising up again when her palm lingered on his knee. “I’m honored to be included in this special occasion of arbuz tasting.” She smiled at him and his own lip curled in response. Her teasing couldn’t upset him really when she beamed at him like that.

His heart, which stopped just a few moments ago, now started beating frantically, so he set to keep his hands busy with cutting the fruit. He sank the blade into the rind and once it broke the barrier Zuko was happy to observe the internal part was much softer.

“Is this the knife Sokka gave you?”

“Yes, I always carry it with me.” He smiled, sentiment tugging at his heart.

“Why?” Katara furrowed her brows.

Distracted, trying to form a coherent answer, he stopped cutting the fruit for a second.

“Because my Dao swords freak people out on a regular day.”

He was more than happy to hear her laughing at his joke, and his knife cut through the rind on both sides. The watermelon opened revealing delicious red flesh. Zuko grinned at the sight—it was a good sign—and raised his head to share his excitement with Katara, only to notice her smile fell.

Her tone turned serious. “Is it still so bad?”

He sighed. The issue of Katara’s friends’ safety always seemed to upset her.

“No, it’s been quiet for some time. I have to admit though—chasing the assassins was quite an entertainment,” he added with a smirk. “Now I’m almost bored from the lack of action. And it is you I blame. You scared them off.”

Katara shrugged, nonchalantly playing with her hair. “If they couldn’t take a few water whips, they didn’t deserve to be the Fire Lord’s assassins.” She smirked with a dangerous glint in her eye.

It was the same look she would wear on the nights the two of them chased the criminals through the rooftops of Caldera City. With the bottom of her face covered with a cloth, he could only see the blue of her eyes, sharp with satisfaction when they caught the bad guys. Their duo had never failed.

He smiled at the memory, making clean cuts of the fruit to shape it into small slices.

“So, you grew it yourself,” Katara started with a smirk. “Who would’ve thought the Fire Lord Zuko had a knack for cultivation?”

“No one,” he whispered with a playful smile, handing her a triangle piece of watermelon. “It’s the best kept secret in the Fire Nation. You’re the only one who knows.”

She raised her brow. “Not even uncle Iroh knows?”

“Not even uncle.” The revelation caused Katara’s face to lit up. “Nor the gardener. I was this close,” he pinched his fingers, “to asking for his help after so many fruitless attempts. But I didn’t and grew it anyway. It’s the first and so far only one.” He eyed the fruit. “I’m so anxious to try it.”

Suddenly the stupidity of his actions struck him. He was so excited to show Katara his watermelon, he ignored the risk of the fruit’s dubious taste. What if it was actually disgusting? Just because it looked good it didn’t mean it had to be good.

Katara’s cheerful voice shook him out of his musings. “I’m not.”

And before Zuko could say anything or knock the slice out of her hold and run far away with his watermelon, Katara sank her teeth in the flesh. She munched, making weird noises and pulling faces at him—some affirmative, some not.

“Oh, stop tormenting me, Katara!” Zuko groaned. “So? How is it? Is it good?”

His desperation caused the girl to burst in another round of laughter. He kept an impressive track record of making her laugh today.

“I don’t know how it is supposed to taste, you tell me!”

Katara shoved her nibbled slice right in front of his face. Zuko froze for a second, taken aback by the intimacy of the gesture, but recovered quickly. He grasped her wrist to bring the fruit closer to his mouth and took a bite.

Her smile widened seeing his reaction.

“It is good!” Excited, he took another bite of Katara’s slice. The blush that bloomed on her cheeks had the color of his watermelon and Zuko realized it had nothing to do with the heat. “Do you like it?”

She nodded enthusiastically, grinning. “Yes, it’s very refreshing. And surprisingly cool.”

“I put it in a cooler last night. Even awful watermelons are bearable to eat when cold.”

“But this one isn’t awful.”

“No, it’s not.” He didn’t even try to stop the cheeky grin from appearing on his face. The watermelon was sweet but refreshing—exactly how it was supposed to taste. And so succulent a small bead of juice ran down Katara’s chin as she took another bite. Without thinking, he reached to wipe it.

Katara stared at him with a funny look on her face—she seemed spooked. His palm which lingered on her jaw now sprung as if burnt.

An awfully awkward silence fell between them for a few long seconds. Then Katara cleared her throat. “Better learn how to grow more of them, Zuko,” she said with a stern voice, but her smile betrayed her teasing. “You had a good feeling about me liking them a lot.”

“Thank Agni, it’s good,” he let go of all the anxious breath that was trapped inside him all morning. “It would’ve been quite embarrassing if I grew a disgusting watermelon for you.”

Zuko choked on said fruit as he realized his slip. Falling into a coughing fit, he didn’t notice Katara drew closer until her hair tickled his forearm.

“Thank you for sharing with me. That’s very sweet of you, Zuko. As sweet as this perfectly cultivated arbuz.”

And then a strand of hair tickled his jaw, and the next thing he knew was Katara’s lips on his cheek. She withdrew quickly, avoiding his gaze. The spot where she left the butterfly kiss burned, but it was a pleasant heat (nothing like getting burnt by a parent).

“I should return the favor now,” she muttered, and Zuko barely heard her.

Still dumbstruck a little, Zuko wasn’t able to formulate a coherent question, so he just furrowed his brows in confusion.

“And cultivate something from the South Pole for you,” Katara clarified.

“Oh.” Something warm swelled in his chest, something that suddenly made Zuko very nervous to be around Katara. “I didn’t know stuff grows on the South Pole.”

“Hardly,” she chuckled. “All I can think of are sea prunes. But they grow in the ocean. Do you like them?” she asked, and Zuko saw the excitement budding in her eyes.

“I don’t think I’ve ever tried them.”

“Hmm…” Katara bit her lip and Zuko knew he was staring but couldn’t look away. “I’ve heard they’re similar in taste to Fire Nation’s ocean kumquats. Do you like those?”

Zuko hated ocean kumquats.

“Yeah...I like them a lot.”

Her eyes widened in now full bloomed excitement and she clasped her hands together. “I can’t wait to treat you with sea prunes stew!”

And as Katara carried on describing the details of the famous South Pole’s cuisine Zuko didn’t even have half the mind to be disgusted by the depiction, because a dumb grin grew on his lips and a feeling started sprouting in his heart.

[hotshot-deserves-more-love]

HP House relationships hcs

@coldairballoons I know you like Harry potter soooo thought you'd like it

Gryffindor/Gryffindor

Oh good god

They're either that couple that works out together and are like,,,quidditch team co captains

Or the worst pranksters Hogwarts has ever seen

Like they'll plan pranks that'll most likely fail, but they did it together and

I guess that means something to them???? Idek

Def pulled a same outfit scenario at the Yule ball at least once

Gryffindor/ravenclaw

The Gryffindor still plays pranks

But somehow manages to get ravenclaw to unknowingly help

Like they'll present the worst plan ever and raven just HAS to fix it

like 'my s/o is an idiot, how could you possibly think this rope would open the cage'

Professors never punish the ravenclaw tho cuz they just know

They're still kinda adorable as a couple

Like the ravenclaw will come to games where they're house isn't playing and just plop down with a book

But refuses to admit that they're here for their s/o

Cue entire Gryffindor team teasing the both of them

Gryffindor/Hufflepuff

Oddly terrifying

Like they're relationship is vv private

And you only see them support each other at games (I'm sorry but every Gryffindor is interested in quidditch I don't make the rules)

Hufflepuff screams at the top of their lungs when their s/o does something to help their team

this terrifies the people around them tho

Like this quiet hufflepuff is bundled up in sweaters and scarves in the Gryffindor stands, freaking tf out

and everyone just Stares

Gryffindor/Slytherin

It confuses every single person as to how this happened

Like the gryff said 'I love u' and the Slytherin responded w/ 'fuck off'

But they really do love each other, slyth just isn't good w/ feelings oKaY

Probably the only time Gryffindor is the one pulling someone away from something

Like the Slytherin's getting competitive and took it just a Little Too Far (it may or may not have involved threats of hexes)

110% met while the Gryffindor was doing potions detention and the Slytherin was just hangin around w/ the potions professor and just,,,,, organizing things

Slytherin/ravenclaw

Y'know those fanart poses where one has their arms crossed n the other is leaning one arm on the other's shoulder while flipping someone off?? And for some reason they're both wearing sunglasses????

That's this couple

But like

They've actually done this, multiple times in fact

Sassy, icy, witty, and every other rendition of those words x200

Kinda keep to themselves, but will sometimes sit at the other's house table

Library dates

Screw hogsmeade these two will happily read in silence, occasionally shifting to cuddle

It kinda surprises ppl that they aren't very big on pda like Slytherin/Slytherin (we'll get to that later)

But if anyone does anything negative towards the rare times they hold hands while going to class, or cuddling on one of the courtyard benches

be prepared for the coldest glare you've ever seen

Slytherin/Slytherin

We're gonna focus on punk!slytherin/elegant,mysterious!slytherin cuz I'm in a mood but ANYWAYS

Mf iconic

like these two could not care less on your opinion abt their relationship

if they feel fine about it, there's nothing you can do to change that

SO MUCH PDA

it is always severely sexual or the sweetest thing ever

One's hand in the other's back pocket during a hogsmeade trip??? Yep. Holding hands in one of their cloak pockets while walking to class??? You bet. Making out in the potions ingredients closet between said classes??? How dare you think otherwise.

Insult one, you insult both and you'll rue the day you did whatever it was

Ravenclaw/Ravenclaw

So many study dates and so much coffee

Like they probably met right before one of their OWLS exams and the other just turned, poured red bull into they're coffee just like 'I'm gonna die but I'm gonna die with an A on my report card'

Did I use that tumblr meme??? Yes

Either vv affectionate or not at all

Like they attended the Yule ball and people were genuinely shocked to learn they were a couple

'I thought they hated each other'

It's not their fault, they just love schoolwork as much as they love each other

Ravenclaw/hufflepuff

That cute couple that wears scarves they made each other during an attempt to ignore the extra work they were getting from some of the professors

Overall soft relationship

It took like three months for them to kiss and even then it's the lightest pecks

Went to the Yule ball together and somehow managed to get bouquets for each other

If Hogwarts had a cutest couple contest they would win because

and I don't think I can stress this enough

They Are The Cutest Couple

Sits in honeydukes and just talks until they have to get back to the castle

Just,,,,So Freakin,,,,Wholesome

Hufflepuff/Hufflepuff

The two that have been friends since their first year prefect gave them a tour of the castle

Slow burn galore

Cuddling while watching a movie one of their housemates smuggled in and looking up to realise how close they were

But pulled away from each other blushing and sat on opposite ends of the couch

Everyone's do tired of waiting for them to get together

And OF COURSE it happens on the last day of school in their seventh year

All the other hufflepuffs are like 'we've been waiting almost a decade for this to happen and now we have No Idea how it'll work out'

You bet these two invited their entire house to their wedding in the countryside

Live in a small cottage w/ a bunch of plants and succulents

Sometimes animals visit and they just kinda sniff the flowers and go

Idk I can only see them living in a fairytale and it's what they deserve tbh

Hufflepuff/Slytherin

You'd think it'd be the Slytherin protecting the hufflepuff from all evil in the world, correct????

Well you are comepletely and utterly wrong

This lil' puff is a ball of fire and determination to protect their s/o from all evil (including their pureblood parents)

Like the Slytherin is absentmindedly reading a book while the hufflepuff is abt to claw this person's eyes out because they made a comment on their s/o's lineage

The slyth does the same, but it's much more low-key, like someone'll be trashtalking abt the hufflepuffs down the hall

Slytherin's s/o happens to be one of them and this person just suddenly feels a wand poke the back of their neck and someone say 'would you mind repeating that?' and it's enough to terrify anyone

[wishingupontheskyandstars]

Reylo Fanfic Title: Seasons of Friendship, Yearning, Kisses, And Love

Rated M

Fic Summary: Rey is Ben's new neighbor and as the seasons pass by there is friendship, yearning, first kisses, and love.

Chapter 1 AO3 Link

Chapter 2 AO3 Link

                                               Chapter 2 - Spring 🌷

Ben sat on a bar stool in his parents' kitchen, working on his laptop. He stopped typing, raised his arms and stretched--instantly feeling less tense. He grabbed his warm cup of coffee from off the counter and finished it. He sighed as he looked ahead at the back yard. He grinned slowly, watching his dad flip burgers on the grill next to the gazebo. He saw him give a half-smile to his mom and Aunt Amilyn. The two were on an outdoor rattan sectional sofa. His mom was sat up with Amilyn's head on her lap, massaging her head lovingly. They were talking to each other until his father said something he couldn't hear. His mom nodded at him with a grin and said something which made his dad laugh. Ben looked away, glad they were all happy. He retrieved his phone from the counter and saw a new text from Rey. He smiled, not caring if anyone saw him. He started to text back, sighed happily, missing her.

Rey sat on a bistro chair next to her small round black patio table, on her balcony, facing Alderaan park. It was a lovely day to take a stroll through the park, see and smell the gardens full of blooming flowers if only she could, she thought. She stretched her legs in front of her, lifted them, and placed them on the other bistro chair where the sunlight instantly warmed her skin. She reached for her favorite mug filled with her freshly made strawberry and blueberry smoothie and took a sip. It tasted so refreshing she wiggled her dark blue colored toes she painted the previous night. She looked to her left and saw Ben's vacant balcony separated only by a glass divider. His linen love seat, patio table, and easel remained unmoved for almost two months. Her phone chimed with a new text message. She grabbed it and wrinkled her nose, reading Ben's text. She sighed--resting her head against her sliding door, missing him.

More Than 3 Months Ago

Between Christmas and New Year's Rey got her apartment settled before she started her job at the city library in early January. She purchased essential furniture: A bed frame and mattresses, a small couch, and bar stools for her surprising long kitchen counter. She didn't feel the need to buy a table for the dining area when she could fit four chairs at the counter. She instead used the dining space as a mini office, purchasing a blue shabby chic desk and matching chair. She didn't see anything to suggest her apartment was haunted unless she dismissed that one time the light in the kitchen randomly turned on in the middle of the night when she couldn't sleep and ate cereal. Other than that, she was enjoying her new life in the city.

It was the morning after New Year's Day as Rey finished eating her fruit bowl when she heard a knock at the door. She walked over and peeked through the peephole. Her heart leaped at seeing Ben. They had spent one morning out together for breakfast just a day after Christmas and since then were friendly if they ran into each other, waiting for the elevator. He even helped the people that moved in her furniture. She briefly saw him on New Year's Day when he came back from a party hosted by his friend, Tai. He had invited her and she wanted to say yes, but didn't--insisting she had other plans, but really, she saw the city's fireworks from her balcony and watched rerun episodes of a favorite show on her new television. At the time, she didn't want to move too fast in getting to know Ben as she recognized he was different from other guys she dated.

She opened the door revealing Ben with a worried expression. He said in a rush, "I wanted towarnyou that my momandAuntAmilyn are coming over."

Rey raised her brows, getting half of what he said. "What?"

"I'm sorry." He genuinely looked apologetic as he sighed, and ran his fingers through his hair, nervously.

"Why?" Rey felt like she couldn't get any other words out since she was caught off guard.

Ben shrugged. "They unexpectedly came over for breakfast and now they're interested in decorating your apartment. I'm sorry."

"Oh!" Rey's eyes widened. She didn't know how to respond.

Ben pointed toward the inside of her apartment. "I tried to text you earlier--to warn you so you can leave or—"

Rey groaned, closing her eyes as she leaned into her door. "I forgot to plug it in last night."

"Ah." Ben crossed his arms.

At that second there was a new voice in the conversation: "Rey!" Leia said from behind Ben as she put an arm around her son's waist and squeezed him, making him groan slightly. "How are you this morning?" She asked with a bright smile. Amilyn also appeared, standing on the other side of Ben looking inside her apartment with an inquisitive look on her face.

"Great, thank you, Mrs. Solo." Rey saw Ben look gigantic next to his mom. It made her grin.

"No need for formalities." Leia walked towards Rey, quickly hugging her as did Amilyn, who followed behind. "Call me, Leia," she said, walking in the living room looking around at the nearly empty room.

Rey shrugged at Ben, who was still in the hallway. She gestured with her head for him to come inside. He mouthed I'm sorry as he walked by her. She nodded, giving him a small smile.

Leia walked a few steps into the kitchen as she said, "We just wanted to pop by and..."

"See if we can help you decorate your place. Ben mentioned you start work soon," Amilyn said as she gave Rey a wink.

"It would be a gift from us to you," Leia said.

Ben rolled his eyes, looking agitated. "Mom..." He interrupted or tried to.

Leia walked back to Rey and gently squeezed her arm. "We're just grateful that Ben has a neighbor like you and someone who can be—"

"Mom, stop," Ben said in annoyance. He was standing on the other side of Rey with his arms crossed.

It was as if Leia didn't hear him as she continued to say, "You remember at Christmas when he looked happy singing carols while Luke played the piano? Ami, when has that ever happened?"

"Never!" Amilyn yelled from the kitchen. Ben scoffed.

Rey chuckled and crossed her arms, bumping her elbow with his. Ben sighed. "Did I mention I was sorry about this?" He asked, his dark eyes looking into hers. She saw the intensity in his look and she could tell he was distraught over this.  

She put her hand over his arm. He wore a dark sweatshirt, but she felt the strength of his arm--the muscle which made her take a breath in before she reassured him, "It's okay, Ben."

"I know what we're going to do." Leia walked outside to the balcony. She turned and said in a matter of fact tone, "Rey, give us until this early evening and we'll have everything ready."

"We'll be done by five," Amilyn estimated as she walked towards Leia with her iPad in hand, typing.

Rey looked at Ben with a look of disbelief. "Are they serious?" she whispered.

"Always," he said with a heavy sigh.

"Go see a movie or dine at Maz's restaurant. She added a few new meals on the menu," Leia said as she retrieved her phone from her purse and started to type away.

"The garlic parmesan pasta is divine," Amilyn said, not looking up from her iPad as she made the chef's kiss gesture.

Ben's phone rang, surprising them both. He retrieved it from his jeans pocket, looked at it, and grimaced. He looked back at Rey. "It's someone from work—I have to take this." He looked back at his mom and Amilyn and shook his head. "As I said, they're too much," He looked uneasy as he placed his hand on her arm before walking away.

Rey felt the warmth from his touch as she saw him walk to the hallway talking about the design of a website. She looked back at his mom and aunt on the balcony and walked with determination to them. "Leia, I'm so appreciative but I don't have the money to pay you back. I just got some furniture that I know will work for me so..." She gave them a reassuring smile.

Leia looked up from her phone and put it back into her purse. She walked just two steps to reach Rey and took her hands in hers. "I promise we will keep your furniture in place. We just want to help and maybe one day you can pay back the favor to someone else." Rey felt trust as she stared in her soft brown eyes that resembled her son's. Leia smiled which made Rey smile in return.

"And we're good at this." Amilyn boasted as she continued to type on her iPad.

Leia still held Rey's hands as she said, "I'm sorry if we inconvenienced you, Rey, and we understand if you want us to leave."

Other than Ben helping her when she first moved and even inviting her to spend Christmas with his family when she didn't have anyone, she had never had someone help her just because. She realized the genuine kindness in this family ran strong. With a smile, she said, "I look forward to seeing what you two do."

After Rey and Ben browsed a bookstore, took a stroll in the freezing outdoors through the snow-filled park, and had lunch at Maz's restaurant, Rey saw as promised the newly added décor work with all her furniture. A dark wood coffee table was placed in front of her dark couch. A floor lamp and an end table were alongside one side of the couch. There were mirrors placed in each room. Different scenery and floral prints were hung on the walls. An end table with a lamp was placed in her bedroom. A blender, pots and pans, and a spice rack were added to her kitchen.

Out on the balcony, there was a black bistro table and two chairs on the patio along with an umbrella. Succulents, ficus plants, geraniums, and orchids were placed all around her apartment. She touched the petal of one orchid and felt it was indeed real and not fake. She hadn't nurtured many plants before but was ready to take care of them. They made the apartment livelier, Rey thought. That evening she made everyone dinner filled with bruschetta and mac n cheese with veggies. Rey found herself getting more attached to Ben and his family and was starting to feel like she was where she was supposed to be--she held on to that feeling.

Soon enough, Rey got in the rhythm of her apartment, neighborhood, and her new job position. At work, she instantly clicked with two of her co-workers: Rose and Jannah. At the apartment, she and Ben had lunch every weekend after a busy work week, either at hers or his place. The more she talked to Ben, the more she was feeling something for him.

During their lunch before Valentine's day, Ben made a sausage, cheese, and spinach quiche. Rey took a bite and closed her eyes in bliss.

"Does that mean it's good?" Ben asked and grinned.

"Fuck yes," Rey laughed, covering her mouth. "Sorry."

Ben laughed. "Glad you like it." He took a bite and nodded at her. "Yeah, there's not going to be any leftovers."

Rey already took a second slice from the dish. She raised her fork and said, "Correct." She looked at the easel on his balcony. With her fork, she pointed at it. "Are you working on new art?"

Ben nodded. "It's of the park," he said, modestly. He immediately went back to eating.

Rey gave him a sly grin. "When do you think I will be able to see this new art piece by artist, Ben Solo," she said with a smile.

He laughed and rolled his eyes. "Maybe...never," he said, raising a brow.

"Oh, come on!"

He shrugged. "Probably by next weekend. I'll bring it over to your apartment."

"Yes!" Rey said with excitement.

Ben looked at Rey and thought she looked genuinely happy to see his art. He looked away and took another bite of quiche. He then realized next weekend was Valentine's Day and he had been wanting to ask Rey on a proper date. Perhaps—his cell rang just then. He looked at it and put it back down. "It's Amilyn," he said.

"Oh! How is she?" Rey asked then drank orange juice from one of Ben's expensive-looking crystal goblet.

Ben shrugged. "Fine, I guess. She and my mom are always busy so—" The phone rang again. "Ok, I better get this."

Rey nodded.

Ben answered, "Hey, Au--What?" Ben's brows furrowed. "When? ... Which hospital? ... Okay, I'm leaving right now...umm..." He moved his mouth one side then the other. "Did you see him? ... Okay, yeah, bye." He put down his phone and stared at his plate of half-eaten quiche.

"What happened?"

At the sound of his name he looked at Rey and said as if confused, "My dad was by himself ...in a plane accident. He needs surgery and I need to go to the hospital." He stood up and walked down the hallway to his room. He came back less than a minute later and looked around the living room. "My keys--I don't know where they are."

Rey looked behind her at the hook near his front door where his keys were. She walked, grabbed them, and gave them to Ben.

He looked surprised as he held the keys in his hand. "Right." He looked around the room again and said, "Umm...my phone." He grabbed his wallet from the pocket of his dark jeans and looked puzzled. "Not my phone." He put his wallet back in his pocket.

Rey looked at his phone, left on the counter. She grabbed the phone and gave it to him. He looked confused as he said, "Thank you."

"Ben, you're in shock. Let me drive you to the hospital."

Ben raised his brows. "You'll drive me?" He looked genuinely surprised, again.

"Of course." She gently put her hand on his arm. He looked down at her hand then his eyes searched her face as if trying to find something. Rey tried to give him an encouraging smile as she walked with him towards the front door, locking it behind them.

As Rey drove to the hospital she made it a habit to check on Ben during red lights. His eyes were always closed--his jaw was clenched.

When they got to the hospital waiting room, Leia held onto her son as Ben had his arms around her. Rey heard him whisper to his mom, "He'll be fine—He always is." Rey smiled, touched seeing Ben so affectionate with his family.

Later that evening as Rey and Ben were back at the apartments she opened the door to hers. She looked to her left and saw Ben still standing in front of his door. "Ben?"

He looked at her with an almost worried expression. He walked a couple of steps to her. "I'm thinking of packing a bag of clothes and staying with my parents for a while--just until he's out of the hospital and recuperates at home. I don't know-- maybe if I was there more it would help." He shrugged.

Rey stepped closer to Ben where there were less than a few inches between them. "What can I do?"

Ben half-smiled. "You've done so much already—driving me to the hospital when I couldn't get myself together. You being there--it helped... thanks, Rey."

"Even though the timing was not ideal it was nice to meet your dad's friends, Chewie and Lando. They told so many stories when you were younger." She wrinkled her nose in mischief.

Ben looked like he was turning red in embarrassment. He ran his fingers through his hair. "Oh, yeah, like what?" He shook his head. "Never mind."

Rey chuckled. "Anyway, if you need anything, please let me know." She realized they were close--very close. She leaned forward just a tad. The hallway lighting was dim as if it was going to go out any minute.

Ben looked down at her hands. Slowly he touched her fingertips with his. "Rey, earlier I wanted...um..."

Rey looked down at their hands touching. His touch felt warm--she wanted more. She held his hand, stroking his skin with her thumb. She looked up and met his dark eyes. "Yes?"

Their faces were close enough where Ben could smell her strawberry shampoo. He felt her soothing caress on his hand and wanted to ask her out for Valentine's Day but he refrained. He closed his eyes and sighed, feeling it wasn't the right time. If he left now he wouldn't be back for a while, and-- He cleared his throat and didn't let go of her touch as he said, "Let's keep in touch, okay?"

Rey felt that he was going to say something different but nodded, interlocking her fingers with his, and said, "Absolutely."

Texts and phone calls were how Rey and Ben communicated the next few weeks as Valentine's Day came and went. Han was out of the hospital and back in the comfort of his own home, in bed most of the day, with a cast on one leg and one arm. Rey could tell Ben was relieved that his father was almost back to himself just in the more at ease tone of his messages to her. She planned to visit Chandrila during an upcoming weekend but soon enough that became just a wish.

As March rolled in, whispers about the Red Shadow Virus became louder and louder, world-wide. Everywhere, including the city, many were severely sick and some died. It became a tragic pandemic that resembled the Blue Shadow Virus that occurred less than a century ago. A stay-at-home order was enforced, keeping people home except going out for the essentials. Ben continued to stay with his family at home while Rey stayed in her apartment on her own. Instead of talking a few times a week their conversations were daily.

"I'm glad your father is feeling better," Rey said as she made dinner in her kitchen. She had her cell phone on speaker.

"That's the only good news right now. He can be grouchy sometimes but I think he's relieved I'm home—Mom too." He sighed. "It's a tragedy what's going on."

"It's heartbreaking—watching the news and listening to the loved ones of those that have passed away..." Rey felt her eyes moisten remembering what she saw on the news just an hour earlier. "How's your mom?"

"She's been redecorating half of the house and making sure my dad is healing well. She's keeping busy, as always. How are you holding up?"

Rey stirred vegetables that were sizzling in the pan. "I went shopping earlier this morning so I'm good on groceries for a while and I'm able to work remotely, for now."

"Same here."

"Yeah and a couple of days a week, Jannah, Rose, and I have been making food deliveries to first responders."

Ben smiled, knowing Rey is someone that wants to help any way she can. He admired that about her. "That's great. Rey, I—" He stopped talking.

Rey furrowed her brows. "Ben? You there?"

"Yeah... What I wanted to say was that I'm going to miss seeing you these next few weeks." He gulped.

Rey smiled, glad he felt the same as her. "I feel the same."

"Yeah?"

"Mmm." Rey took a breath before she admitted, "I miss seeing you every morning, taking the elevator together, and having our weekly lunch—it's something I look forward to."

She didn't hear him for a few seconds and feared she might have said too much but she then heard him say, "Ditto." Rey grinned.

Present – Early Afternoon

Ben was in his car arriving back to his parents' home after making a grocery run and other errands for his parents. He turned off his car and saw the garage door close behind him. He took off his mask, got out of the car, and started to bring groceries to the kitchen, cleaning the fruit and vegetables, before putting them in the fridge. He looked outside at the gazebo. It was quiet but he knew his parents and Aunt Amilyn was home. He shook his head and retrieved more groceries from his car.

Minutes later, he went upstairs to check on his parents to see if there was anything they needed before he took a shower, worked on his laptop, and perhaps text Rey. At that thought, he grinned and opened his parents' bedroom door. "I'm back, do you need anything else?" He asked before his eyes enlarged at what he saw before him. I should have knocked, he thought.

"You know there's something I didn’t know about my family."

Rey was lying on her bed wearing comfy pajamas as she looked up at the ceiling. She had Ben on speakerphone next to her on a pillow. She leaned on her right side and said, "What?"

Ben was in his room, sitting up on his bed, his feet on the ground. He was holding his phone at his ear. "My parents are like a couple with Amilyn."

Rey smiled. "You didn’t know?"

Ben gasped. "Wait--you knew?!"

"I did see some sort of intimacy between them in the kitchen at Christmas. I thought you knew."

"I found out earlier today after coming back from the market. I went to check in on them in their room and saw my dad asleep without his shirt on one side of the bed and the other side... My mom and Amilyn—" He gulped before he continued, "Um—They were making out, hands everywhere, and they were unclothed, the duvet at their feet and--I ran--feeling like an idiot." He sighed, covering his eyes with his arm.

Rey laughed. "Oh my god, did you at least talk afterward?"

"Yeah. I know it's their business but I wished they would have told me a long time ago so I could have been happy for them starting back then instead of now." He sighed. "I'm probably not making sense."

"You are--When I saw them together it looked like all three were in a happy relationship."

"I learned it's been going on since my mom and Amilyn met in college and then my mom met my dad and--Well, they're happy together and so am I. Aunt Amilyn always felt like family since I was a kid so I'm glad they can be comfortable together in front of me instead of feeling like have had to hide it." He remembered earlier that evening as his dad was at the bbq grilling burgers and his mom and Amilyn were in the gazebo, how content they all looked together. He smiled, wishing he had more memories like that.  

Rey stretched her legs before curling near the phone. "Why didn't they tell you back then?"

"My mom didn't think I would understand but at thirty-two years old, I'm glad they can trust me," he scoffed.

"You're thirty-two?" Rey asked.

"Yes, why? Too old for you?" He then stopped talking as if he said more than he meant to.

"Ben?"

"Hmmm?"

"You're the perfect age for me and I don’t know about you but I miss you." She wrinkled her nose and raised her brows, feeling a rush of relief in telling him her true feelings.

Without a pause, he said, "I miss you too, Rey." He sighed. "Wow, I can't believe we've been waiting this long to tell each other that."

"I know," Rey said. "Ben?"

"Yeah?"

She felt bold when she asked, "What do you miss about me?" She didn't realize but she held her breath waiting for him to answer.

Ben chuckled. "That's easy--Your smile whenever we see each other and when you wear your hair in that unique triple bun hairstyle and I miss talking to you face to face."

"So, what are we going to do?"

"Once this stay-at-home order is lifted, I want to take you on an official first date."

"I want that too, badly."

Another month went by as Rey was at her desk on her laptop corresponding with Rose concerning work when she heard Ben's door open. She immediately ended her chat on teams and closed her laptop.

She stepped outside to her balcony and saw the sun just start to set. She turned to her left and finally saw him. He took off his dark mask and placed it on the patio table. It had been three months since she last saw him. She felt such emotion in seeing him. "Ben!" She walked to the glass divider.

Ben turned her way, smiled, and walked to his side of the glass divider. "It's so good to see you, Rey," he said. He looked at her face, her hazel eyes, her lips, her hair which had grown longer. "You grew your hair out," he remarked.

Rey ran her fingers through her brown hair. She nodded. "Thought it was time."

"Looks nice." He gulped, moving his mouth one way then the other.

"You look nice too." She licked her bottom lip, seeing his hair tied in a tiny ponytail; it looked different and she was intrigued. He was dressed in dark pants and a dark gray sweater that fitted him just right. He had a couple of days of scruff on his face and with it, he looked very handsome. "It's a surprise seeing you here."

Ben nodded. "My dad is feeling back to normal and--I just wanted to give them their privacy." He shrugged as he next said, "I wanted to get back to my art and—you. Even as we're separated by this glass, I just want to be near you."

He lifted his hand and placed it on the glass. Rey raised her hand and placed it opposite his. "Same," she said. They stared at each other making sure not to look away.

[amateuranxiety]

Vani Strip Mall: Part One

Author Note Thingie: 1) all characters belong to Monstrosity. im just writing a silly au. 2) credit for the creation of this au and its ideas goes to some of our Discord members. 3) this has been sitting in my drafts for a couple months now. blame adhd. 4) this is probably gonna be pretty ooc, but this is an AU fic about a bunch of world destroying monsters working in a strip mall WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM ME??? 5) enjoy

“Would the owner of the t-posing child currently standing on my cash register PLEASE COME GET YOUR DAUGHTER???”

Welcome to the world of Xelxerin. Sure, he may look like a monster, mostly because he is one, but more importantly, he is just a humble flower shop owner. The Vani of plant life took excellent care of his flowers and succulents. This made his shop, The Aberrant Garden, a hot spot for plant lovers. The day started out just like any other day for him. That quickly fell apart around twenty minutes after he opened.

“LIsten, kid, I’ll pay you to get off the register and go eat something at Chili’s or whatever,” he said, taking out his wallet and presenting her with a twenty dollar bill. The girl didn’t respond. She just kept her gaze straight ahead as she t-posed. Was she even blinking? What was she? Xelxerin put his head in his hands and sighed. By the time he looked up, she was gone. A throb of panic ate through his chest. A feral child is lose in his store, that should be great for business. He needed to stay calm. This isn’t a big deal! What’s the worst she could do? Eat the-

“Excuse me, sir, why is that child eating one of your plants?” Ohno. The customers were all staring at her as she munched on some gardenias like it was nothing. What was up with this kid? She was starting to scare him, and everyone else in the store for that matter.

Xelxerin, in a fit of emotion that could only be described as ‘EXCUSE ME WHAT??’, threw his arms out in front of him, gesturing towards the child and yelling, “WHERE ARE YOUR PARENTS????” Again, she didn’t respond, but there seemed to be a faint answer in her eyes as she swallowed the leaf. At that moment, he knew they weren’t around. Oh crap. Now what was he gonna do? He couldn’t just throw her out into the streets! He took out his phone and dialed a number. “NULL? Could you come here for a second?”

NULL, the strip’s lead security officer, was there within minutes. She took the child away with surprisingly little effort, and Xelzerin felt a little more at peace. Poor kid. He could only hope she had good things coming to her in the future. He could only hope.

The next morning, Xelzerin opened the doors to his shop, only to hear faint noises coming from the back. He slowly approached the source and found, to his shock, that the girl was back. Oh no. Not this again! But... she looked calmer this time. She didn’t even notice him approach as she gently tended to the plants in front of her. She treated them with such tender grace, clearly showing a talent for handling greenery. Well, when she wasn’t eating them of course. He was almost impressed. She did it just about as well as he. Xelzerin cleared his throat, catching her attention.

She turned around and grinned at him, holding a leaf in her mouth like it was a piece of straw, and said, “Heya, mister! Kaylee Tagates!” She held our her hand. “We met yesterday.” Oh, how could he forget.

He shook her hand. “Okay, uh, Xelzerin. What happend to-”

“Oof. Fake name?”

“.....Excuse me?”

“The nametag I found in the back says ‘Carnation.’ Are you lying to me, or did you just think your name was totally lame or something?”

“That’s not the point, kid.”

“Whatever you say, Carni.”

Xelxerin put his palm to his forehead. Now was not the time to discuss that phase. “Sure. Fine. Whatever just..... What happened to NULL?” he asked.

She stared at him, once again with that blank expression painted on her face. Did he even want to know?

She smiled, “I told her you were gonna take care of me.”

“...And she..... believed you?”

“Nope! So I ended up having to cuff her to her desk.”

Why was he not surprised. They only blinked at each other for a couple of minutes. Maybe refusing this child would bring about more chaos than letting her stay. Maybe shooing her away wasn’t worth it....... No. He wanted her gone. He took out his phone and dialed a number, but it went straight to voicemail. Moments later, he received a text from NULL with only three simple words, “your problem now”

He glanced back at her. She was smiling. It was a weird, kinda chaotic smile, yet it also seemed a bit sweet and genuine. Maybe he could still just pawn her off to Insinera! She liked taking in kids! But there was only one store between hers and his. She could still come back to torment him at any time. He sighed. Guess he had no choice. “Alright, kid, just...... just don’t eat the flowers, okay?” he instructed her.

“What about the dirt?”

“NO!”

[the-nagakenny-archives]

New to the Party Pt. 1

(OOC: Here’s the cuddle party story I’ve been meaning to write for a while XD It’s set in the Batman: TAS universe again. It’s turning out to be kind of long, so I decided to break it up in parts, hope no one minds waiting for the next one ;v;)

Samantha Shaw stepped out of the car and sighed as she surveyed her surroundings. “I can’t believe I let you talk me into this.”

There was an amused chuckle as her friend Michael got out of the driver’s side door. “Come on, lighten up!” he said cheerfully. “I mean, how often are lowly interns like us going to get invited to a billionaire’s house for a party? Lobster, champagne, foie gras....should be a swinging time!”

“That’s kind of what I’m afraid of,” Samantha said with a frown, holding out her invitation and waving it at him. “Didn’t you read the whole thing? What’s this about a.....’cuddle party’? Sounds kind of suspect if you ask me.”

“Pfft!” Michael snorted and shook his head. “It’s not what you think, I’ve heard of them before. Everyone just lounges around, there’s no funny stuff going on.”

“Hmph.” Samantha put her invitation in her purse, tossing her blonde hair over one shoulder. “Well, nevertheless, I want to leave before it starts getting weird, okay?” 

Michael grinned and sighed with mock indignation. “Yeah, okay. We’ll call it a night when the weirdness starts. Come on, I’m starving.” He gave her a reassuring pat on the shoulder and started walking toward the house.

Samantha hung back a moment, leaning against the car and looking up at the gigantic house belonging to her boss. She could hear people laughing and chatting in the distance---most likely out in back. Michael had already gone inside, probably hunting for the buffet table.

She sighed with resignation. She had never been much of a party person, but these kinds of parties were especially not her thing. She had to wonder why Mr. Huggins had even wanted to invite her; it was like Michael had said, they were both just interns at the office. Then again, Mr. Huggins was always very friendly with everyone, no matter where they were in the office hierarchy. She would often see him inviting people out to lunch, or bringing people coffee, even though he was supposed to be the head honcho. 

With another sigh, she started heading for the backyard where the bulk of conversation could be heard. As she came upon the huge yard, scattered with beautiful gardens of exotic-looking flowers (that she actually was a bit impressed by), she recognized a few people among the milling and mingling crowd, but otherwise they were mostly strangers to her. Fantastic. 

“Invitation, please! No one’s allowed without an invitation!”

She turned toward the lilting, mock-snooty voice and there was Mr. Huggins, dressed in a casual button-down white shirt and black pants, and flashing his brilliant smile at her. It was really weird to see him wearing something other than a business suit. “Just pulling your leg. Good to see you, Samantha,” he said in his normal tones. She felt a blush beginning to warm her cheeks and she smiled sheepishly; it was unreal just how handsome he was, especially up close, with his long beautiful red hair, perfect teeth, and jawline that could cut diamonds. She had once joked with Dorothy, one of the secretaries, that he must have been the result of a government experiment engineered to test the tensile strength of women’s panties; Dorothy had laughed so hard that coffee had shot out of her nose.

“Hello, Mr. Huggins,” she said politely. “Thank you for---”

“Kenny! Please call me Kenny, no need for formalities in these parts.” Kenny’s dark eyes twinkled; she rather liked that aspect about him in particular. She could dryly joke about his handsomeness, but the twinkle in his eyes was genuine, like a part of his soul was always there. She felt herself blushing again and she quickly composed herself. He’s your boss for Pete’s sake, she reminded herself. 

“Right, uh, Kenny. Thanks for inviting me. Michael and I were actually kind of surprised by it. We almost thought it had been some kind of, uh....mistake.” 

“You did?” Kenny had been hunting through an hors d’oeuvres plate for the biggest crab puff, and at this he looked up, blinking in surprise. “How come?”

“Oh, uh, well,” Samantha laughed sheepishly and shrugged her shoulders. “You know, we’re interns and all that, so---”

“Ah, but you work just as hard as everyone else does,” Kenny replied matter-of-factly. He found the crab puff he was looking for and snatched it with a satisfied grin. “Actually, you probably work harder than I do. But keep that between us, okay?” He winked at her slyly. 

She found herself trying to stammer something out in reply, but before she could get herself coherent Kenny had sidled over and greeted a group of people hanging around the water fountain near the center of his yard, and they all began chatting and chuckling with each other. Samantha watched them for a moment and allowed herself a half-smile. Then she decided to find some food herself; the various rich, exotic aromas were starting to make her stomach grumble. 

There was a seafood buffet piled high with crab legs, oysters, clams, shrimp and giant succulent lobster tails; there were filet mignons being grilled by the dozens; there were mountains of fresh vegetables and fruit salads. She was disappointed that the only thing available to drink was water---she had anticipated wine and champagne galore---but it was refreshingly cold and pure, and there were huge crystal bowls of it with slices of lemon and lime and pieces of mint. There was even the biggest watermelon she had ever seen in her life, cut into neat and juicy isosceles triangles. 

“Oh my gawd, Samantha?” Dorothy appeared just as Samantha was digging into her ambrosial piece of filet mignon. “Ya made it! How are ya?”

Samantha swallowed the mouth-watering bite she had taken and smiled. “Hey, Dorothy. I’m just dandy, thank you. Hard not to be with this kind of food, huh?”

“Oh my gawd, I know,” Dorothy said enthusiastically. “This is my second time being invited to one of these.”

Samantha raised a curious eyebrow. “Really?” Perhaps she could ask her what went on during the after-party festivities.

“Gawd, he’s so sexy, isn’t he?” Dorothy sighed. She hadn’t heard Samantha’s question; she was busy making goo-goo eyes at Kenny, who seemed to be just surveying the party by himself with a content look on his face, one hand in his pocket and a glass of water in the other. “Sometimes at my desk I just fantasize about what he looks like naked, ya know.”

Samantha spluttered; she had been in the middle of drinking from her glass. “Oh my god, Dorothy, you’re terrible!” she exclaimed in a fit of coughs and laughter. 

“Whaaaat?” Dorothy innocently batted her eyelashes. “Can ya really blame me?”

“Um, yes? He’s our boss. That’s just....wrong.” 

“If it’s wrong, then I don’t wanna be right, honey.” She grinned deviously and leaned closer, speaking in a conspiratorial whisper. “Ya know, sometimes I swear he goes commando under those suit pants of his. If ya look close enough, you can almost see the size of his---”

“Hey ladies! What’s the skinny?” Michael had seemingly materialized out of nowhere, holding a plate piled with lobster. Samantha was secretly relieved by his presence; Dorothy could be fun, but she was best in small doses. 

“What’s it to ya, bean pole?” Dorothy sneered at him playfully. 

“Uh, Dorothy was just saying,” Samantha chimed in, quickly taking the wheel to the conversation, “that she’s been to one of Mr. Huggins’ parties before! So you must know about the cuddling and all that weird stuff, right?”

“Huh? Oh, yeah.” Dorothy looked uncharacteristically bewildered. “Ya know, it’s the weirdest thing, but it’s all kinda foggy? There was cuddling though, I do remember that.” She sighed heavily, and Samantha thought she detected a hint of longing in it. “It felt so nice---nothin’ like the half-hearted snuggles I get from my dates. Nah, this was....different. It was a special and safe and....all-over feeling, ya know? Like everything in the whole world was gonna be okay.” 

“Wow.” Michael looked intrigued, which made Samantha begin to worry. “You got all that from just a cuddle?”

“Uh-huh.” Dorothy smiled. “Well, anyway, I’ll catch you two later. Kinda want to grab some dessert before it’s all gone.” She gave them a saucy wink and sauntered on her way. 

“Don’t,” Samantha said as Michael barely opened his mouth to speak, “even think about it.” 

“Aw, come on, Sam, lighten up! You mean to tell me after what Dorothy said you’re not the least bit curious?”

“Yes,” Samantha said firmly. It wasn’t true by a longshot, but she didn’t want to discuss it anymore in case she changed her mind. 

Michael gave an exasperated sigh. “Fiiiiine. Hey look, they’re serving chocolate mousse over there, you want me to get you one?” Michael pointed to one of the tables on the large open back patio of the house, where people were grabbing big glass cups of the most delectable and rich chocolate dessert Samantha had ever seen. It even looked like there was candied bacon crumbled on top. 

“Yeah, okay. Just don’t go disappearing on me, it’s getting late.” 

“Roger roger!” Michael saluted her and playfully started marching toward the table. 

---End Part One---

[averysgreenhouse]

Week 2: The First Customer

It’s been several days since the opening of the greenhouse – for other people, I mean. Avery and I have been here for a long time actually, building it, taking care of the plants, hiding from the merciless world outside. And so far, I’ve regretted nothing. You cannot wish for better company than I’ve had, and yes, I am talking about Avery and the plants Avery’s been taking care of. It’s Avery’s greenhouse after all, not mine, not really. But in Avery’s eyes, it didn’t really matter and if could, Avery would share the greenhouse, the plants and the love with the whole world.

Today, the first person came to the greenhouse. It’s not like I want to assume their gender, but all the clues given (including long brown braided hair, decent make-up and a nice yellow skirt) suggested this was a young lady in her early twenties. She entered the greenhouse with a slightly worried look on her face and looked around the whole place, clearly looking for something specific. Then she landed her eyes on Avery, who was water-spraying some plants in a corner and didn’t even notice her, and then she turned to me. I was preparing coffee for Avery and myself at that moment. I smiled at her.

“Hi. Welcome to the greenhouse. It’s nice to have you here.” I started the conversation and probably took the young lady by surprise as it took her some seconds until she spoke.

“I- Thanks.” She said in very impatient tone, but there was nothing rude about it. She was still looking worried. She glanced around the greenhouse once again and turned back to me, with even more worried expression on her face. “I saw that “OPEN” sign on the door, but this isn’t a florist’s shop, is it.”

It wasn’t a question. She didn’t use a question mark.

“No, we don’t sell anything.” I assured her, understanding her confusion. There are not many buildings out there with an “OPEN” sign on the door that are not shops. Walking into a door with a sign that say “OPEN” and not be able to buy goods or services is probably not what people would expect or want. Some of them would turn around and walk out without any hesitation, as they would consider it an absolute waste of time. But this girl wasn’t like that. She was curious.

“Then, what is this place? A coffeeshop?” She asked and pointed at the coffee I was preparing. I was still smiling, enjoying the conversation and the fact that she wasn’t even mad about the greenhouse not being a shop.

“A greenhouse.” I answered calmly and filled three cups with the coffee, which was now finished. I handed her one of the cups. She looked like someone who could appreciate a good cup of coffee. She didn’t say anything, stared at me in surprise and took the cup. I continued: “You said you thought this was a florist’s shop, didn’t you? Were you looking for any specific flowers or plants?”

“Oh, yes…” she blinked quickly as if she just realized she was still there. “My mum has a birthday party tonight and I was supposed to order a bouquet. But when I arrived at the shop this morning, they apologized and said they accidentally lost the order. They could prepare it for tomorrow though. But that’s too late for me…” she sighed. So that’s what’s been worrying her. This one small complication that could ruin her mother’s special day. She took a sip of the coffee a looked at it. “That’s a good coffee…” she stated.

“Thank you” I smiled as I was truly happy to hear that. It’s always nice when someone thinks your coffee is good.  

By this time, Avery was fully aware of the girl and they must have overheard us, as they approached us with a very nicely potted and star-shaped succulent. They smiled at the girl in a way that made her blush a little.

“I know it’s not a bouquet, but this very handsome succulent could make your mum happy for many, many years. I won’t sell it, but I will give it to you.” Avery said, their voice calm and eyes so kind I would surprise me again and again every time I would look at them. This took the girl complete off guard and for a moment, she was speechless. I don’t know if it was the offer or the fact that it was Avery who made that offer that cause her surprise, but for the first time since she set foot into this greenhouse, she smiled, genuinely and sincerely, and I loved that smile. And Avery, too, loved that smile.

Still smiling, the girl shook her head.

“Thank you very much. But I won’t take it. Instead, I will go look for the bouquet somewhere else. I know I panicked before, but I still have the whole day ahead.” She said and took another sip of the coffee. She wasn’t worried anymore. She was calm.

We were sitting and chatting for another hour, maybe hour and half, all three of us. The young lady, who introduced herself as Aneta, Avery, kind and charming as always, and me. Aneta then left, but not before she’d promised she would come visit us again someday. Right after that, Avery happily grinned at me.

“See? I told you someone would come.” They said, finishing their cup of coffee and looking very satisfied.

“Yes. Yes, you did.” I laughed. I was satisfied too. Maybe we couldn’t help Aneta with her problem, but hopefully we made her day just a little bit better and that’s more than enough for us. Sometimes, you just need to stop and talk. And if you don’t need to talk, then stop and listen to those who need to talk. I feel like I had to share this day with you not only because Aneta was the first person who came to Avery’s greenhouse, but also because I was able witness the power of cup of coffee and small and friendly talk.

Dear friends, thank you for reading this.

With lots of love,

me.

[jasminehoneytea]

we close at sunset ~ p.p

as the sun began to dip behind the skyscrapers, i left my post behind the rose quartz counter to pick up the little yellow sign that hung above the flower shop door. i flipped it over from the “come on in!” side to the side that had lavender painted letters and said “we close at sunset. thanks for stopping by!”

continuing my ‘closing time’ routine, i shut the tiny white door and flipped off the light switch. i hummed along to an old song stuck in my head. i always liked closing time. the sunset, the quiet, especially the way the golden light shined through the giant stained glass window onto the plants and gave them a sort of ethereal glow. i loved that window. it was this beautiful glass mural of a far away new york city skyline from the view of a hill with sunflowers on it. i had grown up gazing at that window, and now i got to look at it everyday.

this was my first time closing up shop on my own, my boss had finally trusted me enough to let me manage the store alone. all the customers had left, and the atmosphere was filled with tranquility.

CRASH

i let out a scream and jumped backward, just narrowly avoiding the millions of shattered colorful glass falling at my feet. i managed to grab my phone as i hid under the desk praying that the loud crash of the window breaking overpowered my scream. there was someone dressed in red and black on the floor in front of me, groaning and clutching their side. they seemed to not be paying attention, so i crawled over to a couple hostas to get a better view. i typed 911 in to the emergency call keypad and hovered my thumb over the call button, peaking through the wide, dark leaves.

wait a minute.

i recognized that spider emblem on the intruder’s chest.

“hey, uh spider-man?” i asked, slowly peeking my head out above the hostas. he groaned in pain again and turned his head towards me. the eyes on his mask twitched spuratically for a couple seconds until they seemed to focus on me. “are you here to rob me?”

spider-man used his elbow to prop himself up slightly. he winced slightly before saying “no” and falling back to floor, cursing under his breath.

“oh. okay. cool.” the fear coursing through me seemed to subside as i made my way over to him. “should i call an ambulance?”

“no.” he repeated.

“are you okay?”

“n-uh...yep, fine. totally fine.” spider-man replied. “i just was fighting this bad guy and she threw me through your window and took off. that’s all.”

the panic i once felt came rushing back. “she’s not going to come back here and try to kill us, is she?”

“nah. she’s sneaky.” he said. “she has a plan, i just don’t know what it is.”

great. spider-man just got his ass kicked and now i’m involved. if she has a mysterious plan that he doesn’t know about, how is so sure she won’t come back? i thought about asking him all these burning questions, but then saw that he was writhing on the floor. “are you sure you’re okay? ‘cus you don’t look so good.”

“actually, could you do me a favor? i think i might have gotten cut by the glass.”

i felt my stomach drop at the thought of him bleeding. “oh god i’m not gonna have to sew you up, am i? i don’t do that well with blood. sometimes i pass out and....uh...nevermind” i cut myself off before i rambled too much. i always seemed to talk excessively when i was nervous. i stood up straighter and put on a brave face. “what do you need me to do?”

“just grab a first aid kit. please.”

“gotcha! don’t move!” i regretted my words instantly, realizing that he couldn’t really move that much if he was bleeding badly. i ran over to the back of the store and grabbed a stark white box with a red cross. when i came back, spider-man was weakly reaching up to his chest, tapping the spider emblem. the suit seemed to decompress and it fell of his shoulders.

damn, spider-man’s ripped.

i shook my head. that’s not the point. the problem was the giant gash across his abdomen. his extremely toned abdomen...

i knelt down beside the spandex clad superhero and opened up the first aid kid and ripped off a piece of gauze. “it’s fine, i can do it.”

“buddy, you can hardly sit up. speaking of that, i need you to sit up.” he obliged, propping himself up using both arms. “i gotta stop the bleeding, so i’m going to use a lot of pressure. it’s going to hurt, i’m sorry.”

“don’t be.” he replied. i bit my lip in concentration and tied the gauze around his waist, Lining it with the cut. spider-man hissed in pain. i murmured another apology before tying the gauze, pulling it tight. he yelped again and lost his balance.

i caught his head and pulled him up by his shoulders slightly so he was leaning against me. “that’s the worst of it. it’s gonna take a while to stop bleeding. when you get home...or to you spider cave or whatever, just take off the gauze and clean the wound. it’s pretty bad, you should go to the hospital.”

“that’s out of the question. and i don’t have a ‘spider cave’.”

“sorry, man, you’re the one who broke my window. who even are you?” i asked.

“i’m...uh, i’m spider-man.”

i rolled my eyes. “so you’re not gonna tell me your real name?”

spider-man didn’t respond. i sighed and ripped off another piece of gauze. “did the glass cut you anywhere else?”

“um, yeah.”

“where?”

he hesitated. “the bottom right side of my face.” i reached ober to pull of his mask but his hand caught my wrist in a split second. i made a snarky comment about his damn reflexes and let my hand drop, resting in a closed fist on his chest. “i...can’t let you see my face.”

my expression softened. he seemed really genuine about keeping his identity secret. “okay.” i responded, my tone gentler. “can you at least pull it up a little bit?” he nodded and tugged the mask up to just below his nose. i studied the cut, it was just a little slice. it wasn’t even bleeding anymore. “you heal fast.” i told him.

“yeah, that’s part of my, y’know...”

“superhero thing?” i finished for him.

“yeah.” he chuckled slightly. i pretended to be observing the cut, but in reality i was studying his face, at least the part of it that i could see. he had soft pink lips. a couple freckles were seen just below where his cheeks would be. i could only assume that he had them across his nose and cheeks as well.

i looked down and realized he was still gripping my wrist. “i kind of need both hands, spidey.”

he apologized and released my wrist. i immediately got to work, watching in awe at how quickly the cut was healing while i cleaned it up. spidey winced a couple times at the pain. every time he inhaled sharply, i felt a pang of guilt in my chest and would say i’m sorry.

“you apologize too much.”

“because i’m kind of hurting you.”

“you’re helping me.” he corrected.

who knew spider-man would be such a sweet person?

“so spidey, how old are you?” i asked

“si-“ he paused. “i can’t tell you.”

“so, sixteen. cool, me too.”

he cursed softly and i giggled. “do you go to midtown?” he asked suddenly.

i nodded. “you do too, then?”

“i didn’t say that.” his face turned a shade of red.

“you’re not good at this whole identity thing.” i told him. spidey opened his mouth to retort, but i interjected. “this might scar.” i grabbed a turquoise bandaid with little succulents on it and placed it over his jaw, patting his cheek gently.

spider-man shrugged. “it’s okay, it should fade in a day or two.”

“those healing powers are useful.” i replied.

he grinned. “yeah. they are. you’re pretty useful too. thanks for cleaning me up.” i smiled back and put away my first aid kit, narrowly avoiding pieces of my poor window. “so, uh, plants, huh?” he called out to me as i hung the box back on the wall.

“spider-man!” i feigned a gasp. “if i didn’t know better, i’d say you were trying to start small talk with me!”

i heard him shuffle behind me. “so what if i am?”

i cracked a smile. “yes, plants. i’ve been dreaming of working at this exact store since i was five. i came in every weekend and volunteered to help water the plants. the day i turned sixteen, i applied to work here and got the job. tonight was actually my first night closing up shop. now i have to explain to my boss why there’s no window.

“‘we close at sunset’.” spidey said, referring to the little sign that was now face-down on the sidewalk outside.

i nodded. “we do indeed.”

spidey went quiet for a couple seconds. i grabbed a broom from the corner and began to say, “so are you gonna help me sweep this glass up or-“

when i turned around, spidey was no where to be seen. “-not...” i finished, sighing aloud. i had no idea how i was gonna explain this to my boss. that stained glass window was everything to her, not to mention how it was the symbol of my childhood dreams. i was just a sixteen year old, how was i supposed to pay for a thousand dollar window?

by the time i finished cleaning up the poor glass, the sun had set into a hazy purple night. it wasn’t too dark yet, i’d just have to write a lengthy email to my boss about what had happened that night. at least the old security camera that barely worked could help me plead my case.

“god, if you’re real and listening, please let me keep my job.” i whispered allowed as i finished taping an old blanket to cover the gaping hole where the window was. “and spider-man, if you’re listening too, you better pay for this. i can’t lose this, it’s my dream.” i blinked back frustrated and overwhelmed tears and picked up the “we close at sunset” sign, hanging it in its rightful place.

i clutched my purse to my side as i walked down the dimly light new york streets. a sudden shadowy movement caught my eye and i turned just quick enough to see a red and black figure on top of roof duck down. “thanks, spidey.” i mumbled, chucking softly. i felt a little safer knowing a teenage superhero was watching over me.

the next day, i woke up to a long voicemail from my boss. she sounded mad, but at least she believed me. i walked to school, my shoulders feeling a little lighter than they did the night before. i glanced up at the same midtown high sign that i looked at every day, five days a week, and a thought crossed my mind.

spider-man goes to midtown high.

i spent the rest of the morning attempting to identify the masked mystery, but i couldn’t recognize his voice anywhere. i hoped that maybe a couple freckle-faced boys would cross paths with me, but none did. by the end of the day, i had given up. i wasn’t going to find spider-man. i headed to work at the flower shop like any other day, feeling completely and utterly defeated.

my boss had left early for the day, searching for a stained glass shop that could fix the hole in the window and recreate the old picture.

“um, excuse me.” a voice said. it sounded familiar, i just couldn’t figure out from where i had heard it before.

i looked up and was face to face with a boy who looked my age. he had wavy brown hair, a couple of stray curls falling in front of his carame eyes. a dusting of freckles were delicately placed across the center of his face. i realized i was staring and awkwardly looked away.

“h-hi. my...aunt had ordered something from you but, um, apparently the order didn’t go through properly and...uh...anyways here’s the money.” he said, handing me a wad of cash. i flipped through it and my eyes widened.

“this is twelve hundred dollars.” i said, my voice low.

he nodded. “yeah. the order was...for...uh, a party.”

i looked back up at him, studying him once more. my eyes landed on his midtown high sweater. “i go there, too.” i said, gesturing to it. he gave me a small half-smile in response.

suddenly, i noticed a fading scar that stretched from his jawline up to to the lower part of his cheek; and suddenly, everything clicked into place. the unreasonable amount of money, the voice i somehow recognized, the scar, everything.

“spider-man?”

his eyes widened with fear. “n-no! what?”

“you’re him, aren’t you? i know your voice, your scar...you’re paying for the window aren’t you?”

“you have to be quiet!” he exclaimed with panicky tone. i laughed quietly and stepped around the counter.

“take me out for coffee and explain everything,” i told him. he was awfully cute, after all.

“...we close at sunset.”