#(also yes i’m not lying about the cousin part

[mabelsguidetolife]

avoiding watching ‘blonde’ forever and ever because cousin norma jean was NOT like that

[whats-her-quirk]

Secret Oath Chapter 6

last || m.list

➷➷➷➷➷

marco bott x fem!reader

18+ mdni

word count: 3.5k

chapter warnings: sex talk, smooching, swimming, dick insecurity

a/n: attempting to post this on my iPad was a mistake but I just couldn’t wait.

♪ washing machine heart by mitski

➷➷➷➷➷

You feel like you have a secret. The feeling of Marco’s lips burns on your own, so vibrant you wonder if people can see it on your face. If that’s not obvious, Marco holds your hand all the way back to the cabin that night. You part at the door with one last kiss, his palm resting warmly on the side of your neck. You don’t know if anyone sees. You don’t know if you care.

When you step inside the cabin, bodies scramble away from the window in a ruckus. Hitch dives for her bunk while Ymir and Historia flop onto the floor, as if they had already been lying there. Mikasa doesn’t move; she’s writing in a journal on the other side of the room.

Your face heats, but you try not to let it show. “Lurkers.”

Ymir and Historia explode into a fit of giggles while Hitch flings herself at you, squealing. “You did it!”

You’re quick to shush them. Even if it’s not a secret, you don’t want to embarrass Marco if the boys hear everyone screaming about him through the wall.

Hitch takes your cheeks in her hands, practically touching her nose to yours as she stares into your eyes. “Tell me everything.”

You’re somewhere between giddy and embarrassed, still trying to wrap your brain around it. “We just kissed, that’s all.”

Hitch claps her hands. “Details, details! Was it everything you dreamed it would be?”

You bite your lip to hide your smile. “Yeah.” You can’t even lie.

Historia squeals and slaps Ymir eagerly on the arm.

“Ok, ok, ok, chill. I’m excited too but oh my god,” you shush again.

“You are IN, baby!” says Hitch.

“We’ll see.”

“You WILL deflower him, or so help me god–”

“YMIR!”

But you hope she’s right. You really hope she’s right.

In an effort to keep your cool, you start digging around in your suitcase for pajamas. “So Hitch. Any updates on Erwin?”

She pouts. “No. I’m not getting anywhere with him.”

Mikasa shuts her journal. “Oh, Erwin? He’s dating Levi.”

Everyone freezes, staring at her. “...What?”

“Who the fuck is Levi?” Ymir demands.

“Levi,” Mikasa says, like it’s obvious. “The groundskeeper. The short one.”

He must be the one who found Zofia’s sunglasses. “I had no idea who he was.”

“Kenny is my dad’s cousin. Levi is his nephew,” she explains. “But yes. He’s also Erwin’s boyfriend. Don’t tell anyone about it though, Levi is super private.”

“He just appears out of nowhere sometimes. I was starting to think he was a ghost or something,” says Historia.

Hitch hops happily into her bunk. “Well. Good for them. And good to know I’m not losing my touch.”

-

Even though you really want to, you don’t kiss Marco again in the morning. You settle for a lingering brush of your hands when he brings you another cup of coffee at breakfast. There’s so much warmth in the way he looks at you, but something’s off. He’s jittery, more nervous than the night before.

Keeping your voice low, you lean over and ask, close to his ear, “You want to talk later?”

He clears his throat. “Yeah, that would be good.”

You don’t want to scare him, and you’re not trying to rush, but, “Are you ok?”

Under the table, his hand skims your thigh before pulling back. “Yes. I just… Yeah. We should talk.”

“Ok. Meet me during free time?”

“For sure.”

You don’t think Marco would lie to you. Even though you do your best to take him at face value, you can’t help but worry something’s wrong. When you part for group activities, he brushes a few strands of hair from the back of your neck lightly with his fingertips, like he wants to touch you but he’s afraid. It’s reassuring, but a knot settles in your stomach as you lead your campers to music class.

In the lodge, where Nifa teaches her sessions, she carries around a box of small instruments and noisemakers: maracas, kazoos, sandpaper blocks to rub and clap together. No matter how many times you tell 20 kids to wait until they’re told to play, the temptation is too great. They can’t manage to be quiet while she gives directions.

Jean retrieves his acoustic guitar from the cabin to play along, and you tap on a mini tambourine while Nifa teaches some basic rhythms to fit the songs the kids already know. When the campers reach the limit of their ability to pay attention, Jean offers to take some song requests so everyone can have a little break.

The kids ask for a little bit of everything, from Queen to Post Malone. Zofia requests “the washing machine song” by Mitski, which she claims she heard about from her big sister. You help Jean lead a couple songs before handing the reins back over to Nifa.

To give your ears a rest, the two of you settle onto one of the couches in the corner. Jean strums absentmindedly on his guitar while you fold your legs under you and lean back against the arm of the couch. “Play Wonderwall,” you tease after a short pause.

He snorts but plucks the chord progression quietly anyway, maybe just to prove that (of course) he can. “You doin’ ok today?”

You narrow your eyes at him. “Why?”

“You’re wringing your hands a lot,” he shrugs. “Usually a sign that something’s bothering you. Just thought I’d ask.”

“How much do you know?”

Jean doesn’t look up from his guitar. “All of it, I think.”

If Marco told anyone what happened, you suspected it would have been Jean. “I’m fine, but it doesn’t seem like he is. Do you know if there’s anything I did–”

“He is absolutely crazy about you, first of all.” Jean doesn’t hesitate, his hands still moving over the guitar strings. “He’s nervous about being able to… please you. Since he doesn’t have much experience.”

“Please me?”

Jean lowers his voice to a mumble. “He’s scared he’s going to be bad at sex.”

“Oh my god. Did he ask you for tips?” You can’t help but tease. It’s an impulse.

Jean shushes you. “It was more like, he knows that you and I used to… so he came to me all freaked out that I was going to be mad if you two got together.”

“And you told him…?”

“That we’re just friends, obviously. And that he doesn’t need my blessing, or whatever.” Jean sighs. “I tried to tell him not to worry, but he won’t relax until he hears it from you.”

“I mean, of course I’m gonna tell him the same thing. Even if he doesn’t want to–”

Jean cuts you off again. “Oh, he wants to.”

Your heart rushes. The anticipation may actually kill you. “Thank you for talking to him. I hope it hasn’t been too awkward.”

Jean rolls his eyes, overdramatic. “How could I not be happy about two of my best friends dating each other.” It’s not a question. “Meanwhile, I’m just a perpetual third wheel.”

You nudge him with your foot. “Come on, it’s not like that.”

He mutes the guitar with his palm. “Last night, I caught Eren and Mikasa fucking in a canoe.”

You slap a hand over your mouth, muffling the strangled, dying animal sound that escapes anyway. “I knew it,” you whisper-scream. “I KNEW it!”

Jean stares at you, deadpan.

You tilt your head, pitying. “I’m sorry. I know you were really hoping–”

“It’s fine. She’s not into me. I’ll get over it. I accept that I’m having a celibate summer.”

“Maybe Pock and Reiner would let you–”

“What, watch?”

“I wasn’t going to say that.”

“I’d rather third wheel Jaeger than witness Reiner finding himself, thanks.”

“You don’t mean that.”

Jean chokes on a laugh. “You’re right, what am I saying?”

-

The afternoon sun is sweltering, the air humid and sticky after a brief rain shower during lunch. It’s too hot to sit in the cabin, even with the fans on, but the air conditioning of the mess hall is far too public for the conversation you’re about to have. Instead, you and Marco claim a porch swing on the upper deck of the lodge, nestled in the far corner where nobody can sneak up on you.

Marco’s long legs reach the floor, and he uses them to rock the swing slowly back and forth. He reaches over for your hand, wrapping his own around it in your lap. You stroke the back of his knuckles while you talk, marveling at how comfortable it is to touch him. It’s like you’ve known him forever, even though it’s only been a couple weeks.

While you could just sit there with him for hours, you know you only have so much time. “I want to be abundantly clear,” you begin. “I really like you. I have for a while.”

Marco exhales. “Doesn’t it bother you that I’ve never dated anyone before? Or that I’ve never slept with anyone?”

“Not at all. I like every part of you, Marco.” You give his hand a squeeze, feeling a little bashful, but you know this is a conversation you need to have. “In fact, I kind of think it’s sort of hot.”

Marco laughs before he can stop himself. He turns to you, face reddening. “You’re serious?”

You nudge his side with your shoulder. “Yes. I mean, I would still like you even if that weren’t the case. But yeah. You’re sweet, you’re funny, you’re hot.”

“Nobody has ever called me hot before.”

“Now that’s hard to believe. And I’ve thought about it a lot. And… things I want to do with you.”

“No way it’s as much as I’ve thought about you.” He plays with your hands, rubbing your thumb with his own.

You cuddle a little closer, your hip touching his. “But hey. I think it would be good for us to talk about it a little first.” Something occurs to you for the first time. “Was last night your first kiss?”

“No,” Marco chuckles. “There were a few girls in high school, not girlfriends, but I don’t know. Crushes, I guess. I made out with my senior prom date.” Marco glances over your head before he continues.

“She asked me to touch her boobs, so I did. But I basically stopped her when she started trying to unzip my pants. We were at an after-party, behind someone’s barn, and I was scared of getting caught.”

“Nothing wrong with that,” you agree. “Is that the farthest you’ve gone?”

Marco clears his throat. “There was this girl freshman year, Rico. We’d taken a lot of AP classes together, but then she went to a different college. She got in touch when she was in town visiting once, so we went out for dinner and then back to my dorm. We kissed a lot, and she got naked in my bed, but uh.”

You try to help. “But you didn’t go all the way?”

“Yeah.” He goes quiet, gently rocking the swing back and forth with his heels.

“Did something happen?”

He clears his throat again. “It’s embarrassing.”

Your head falls against his shoulder. “I won’t make you tell me, but if there’s something I can do to make sure the same thing doesn’t happen with us—”

“My dick scared her away.”

“You... What?”

Marco sighs. “I got hard, and she got me out of my pants, but when she saw my dick, she changed her mind.”

Your brain short circuits. What could possibly—

“Not anything like… She said it was too big. And I know how that sounds, but I felt like a freak. She just got dressed and left. I don’t blame her or anything. But yeah.”

You squeeze his hand. “That must have been really tough, I’m sorry. But you know, also, some people don’t mind that. Plenty of people like it, actually.”

“So I’ve been led to believe,” Marco chuckles awkwardly. “But the evidence to the contrary… it was hard for me to get over for a long time.”

“I get it. We all have our things. But thank you for telling me. For the record,” you click your tongue. “I am very much ok with that.”

Marco’s cheeks turn an even warmer shade of red.

“Would it make you feel better to know how many guys I’ve been with?”

“Yes,” Marco answers immediately. So he’s definitely been preoccupied.

“Four.” It doesn’t bother you to tell him. And it’s only fair, considering how open he was with you too. 

“The first was this guy, Eld, that I met at a frat party the first week of my freshman year. I was very much exploring all my newfound freedom then. We hooked up a couple times, but it just kind of fizzled out after that.”

“Then there was this guy I worked with at the library. We dated for a while, but the breakup was bad.” You can chuckle about it now, looking back, but, “I had to transfer my work-study to the admissions department to get away from him.”

“Sorry. You’re ok?” Marco asks.

“Yep, it’s fine. Haven’t heard from him in ages.”

“That’s good,” Marco agrees. “And you and Jean?” he asks cautiously.

“Yeah, last summer. But you know we’re just friends now, right?”

Marco sweeps his thumb back and forth across your hand. “Yeah.”

Before he can get too in his head about it, you continue. “And I’ve never told anyone this. But the fourth guy was Moblit.”

Marco’s jaw drops before he can catch it. “Wait, really?”

You nod. “Don’t tell, especially not Hitch, or else everyone will know within minutes,” you laugh. “He doesn’t want people bugging him about it, and I can’t blame him. But yeah, we used to hook up in the chapel.” Secluded in the woods, the chapel is off one of the hiking trails and apparently used by some church camps here during the year. Somehow, nobody ever found out, but you want Marco to know everything.

You tell him how despite his general demeanor, you’d made quick friends with Moblit last summer, and inevitably, the two of you became closer and closer until the tension burst. You could match his sarcasm, and he started giving you rides in the staff golf cart whenever you crossed paths. Those turned into little joyrides late at night, when the campers were asleep and you weaseled out of card games or ghost stories with your friends.

The night you ended up at the chapel, you sat together for hours by torchlight just talking. Things got a little deep—he was hung up on Hange, who was either too oblivious to notice or knew everything and just wanted to make him squirm. Meanwhile, you were becoming aware that Jean was much more in love with you than you were with him. After baring your hearts to one another, it was easy to let him pull you into his lap and get some frustration out of your systems.

Moblit made it very clear: you were just friends with some very satisfying physical benefits, and you were fine with that. There was perhaps a second in time where you thought it was a shame—he was the best you’d ever had, every time—but it was also clear that the two of you weren’t truly compatible. You couldn’t date him; you liked picking on him too much.

For a few seconds, Marco is quiet. Just as you start to worry, a smirk pulls at his lips. “Ok, now that’s pretty hot. And impressively mature. But the secret is safe with me.”

“Good, it better be. Or else Mobs would kill me and you’d never find my body.”

“Understood. Speaking of, I saw Hitch heading down the trail with Zeke today. Do you think—?”

“Yes. I think it’s exactly what it looks like.” Erwin is taken, and she’s found her next mark.

Marco’s brows arch. “You don’t say?”

You give him a nudge. “Ok, Gossip Girl. I thought we were here to talk about us.”

“You’re right, sorry, sorry.”

“It’s fine.” You curl your hand into his shirt, wanting to be as close to him as you practically can be. Though you feel you’ve pretty much covered everything, you still have to ask, “So if you’re feeling a little better, and you want to find some time together, I also want… that. You.”

Marco inhales so hard, he coughs. “Um. Yeah. I do. But I know we should be kind of strategic about where and when. And I’m not going to lie, I’m really nervous. I might need you to… teach me.”

Your stomach flutters. “I don’t think you understand how hot that is,” you whisper.

“I really don’t. But I guess if it’s working…” Marco lets go of your hand to rub the back of his neck.

You press a kiss to his burning cheek. “Maybe tomorrow. Just give me a little time to arrange some stuff.” You have an idea, and someone claiming to be your wingwoman who better be ready to make good on her word.

Some kids race by on the lower deck, their feet pounding the old wooden boards. Gabi chases Falco out to the tetherball court, shouting after him about how she’s going to win every match.

You clear your throat. “One more thing. You did buy the condoms, right?”

“Yeah.”

“Ok, good,” you sigh. “I really didn’t want to go ask Bert for some.”

Marco sputters a laugh. “I think that would honestly be worse for him that it would be for you.”

You double over into Marco’s lap, both of you giggling, happy, clinging to each other, not wanting to let go.

-

There‘s a nearly full moon hanging in the sky, and the air is balmy and warm, even for after sunset. On top of that, the Galliards have been talked into sticking around for the night. Everything quickly falls into place for a night swim—the first of the season.

After the evening campfire, all the campers are sent to bed, and the rest of you rush back to your cabins to change. Towels in hand, you all tromp down to the lake to splash under the stars.

Marcel leads the way. “Listen, I know you’re not kids, but don’t go in far enough that the water is over your heads. There’s not enough light down here, and you have to be careful.”

Ymir gives a salute. “Got it, dad.”

“Could you not?”

And they’re bickering again.

As you near the shore, you just barely notice some silhouettes in the water. Two people, you think, too big to be campers, one particularly tall. Miche and Zeke are with you, which leaves—

You gasp and grab Hitch by the wrist. “Look.” She slaps a hand over her mouth to keep from shrieking.

Against his word, Erwin is in the lake up to his waist, where Levi is wrapped around him, arms thrown over his shoulders as they wade together. 

Miche whistles, and they snap apart, both darting for shore on the far side of the dock.

You smack his arm with the back of your hand. “Why are you the way that you are?” 

He blows air through his lips. “Psh. They’re fine. And trust me, they’re not good at keeping their own secret anyway. Just the other day I went out to the shed for a broom, and they were—“

“Spare me,” Zeke says before letting his palm fall to the small of Hitch’s back.

Miche gives him a glare that makes you wonder why it’s warranted.

As soon as your toes dip into the lake, you can understand what drew Levi and Erwin here for some alone time. The water seems to sparkle, the way it reflects the stars out here, the sky ironically bright in the relative darkness of the mountainside. Even with chatter and splashing all around you, it’s easy to feel alone but peaceful.

A light wind blows ripples across the water, but mostly, it’s all still. You glance behind you—Mikasa sits with Eren at the shoreline, only their legs in the water. Zeke carries Hitch on his back, her feet kicking in delight. Reiner and Porco see who can hold a handstand the longest before playing with each other’s hands while Ymir and Historia assume basically the same position Erwin and Levi had been in.

Now that you think about it, that didn’t sound like such a bad idea.

Marco was never more than a breath away. You’ve walked out about as far as you could go with your neck still above water, while he’s only chest deep. He bends a bit at the knees, reaching for you. You paste yourself to his side, wrapping your legs around the notch in his hip where you fit perfectly. Subtly, he brushes a kiss behind your ear. Once again, if anyone is watching, you don’t really care.

Your body aches for him, but you’ll have to wait just a little longer. For tonight, though, this is enough. In fact, it’s perfect.

➷➷➷➷➷

last || m.list

[tgmsunmontue]

Team Player 3/7

Hangster. Jake's cousin plays for the Sydney Roosters and gifts him with merchandise regularly. Bradley has an unexpected realization.

PART ONE PART TWO

THREE

                “Where am I going to take him?”

                “You really need to calm down.”

                “Nat, I asked him out and he said yes.”

                “Mmm. A complete surprise. Shocking. Truly.”

                “What?”

                “I’m sorry, he’s sort of the type that thinks poking fun of someone is a way of letting them know he likes them… most boys outgrow it before they leave high school.”

                “What?”

                “He likes you. Has liked you for years. Just… you never seemed to like him back. And now… you do.”

                “I want to fuck him, I think liking him back might be stretching it a little.”

                “You want to do more than just fuck him. You’re lying to yourself and it isn’t making you look good. You only wanted to fuck him when you saw him plastered with your call sign. You want him to be yours. Like, locked down and married type shit.”

                “What?”

                “I know, I know. You’re going on your first date, but just let me call dibs on being your best man when you get married.”

                “What?”

                “Are you broken? You seem broken. You’re saying what a lot.”

                “I’m not broken. You’re talking about me and Hangman getting married.”

                “Just calling it like I see it. Feel free to try and prove me wrong, although I think you’ll be happier if you just go with my prediction.”

                “Can we focus please! Where should I take him?”

                “Dinner? Movies?”

                “Wow, really original…”

                “I can leave.”

                “No! Sorry. I’m just…”

                “Nervous. I get it. You like him.”

                “I do. Fuck. What’s wrong with me?”

                “Well, did you want a list or a pie chart?”

                “Nat!”

                “Sorry. You’re allowed to like him. Apart from his justifiable large ego, he’s actually a decent guy.”

                “Okay, yeah. I know. Okay. I think I might take him to Belmont.”

                “I thought you said before that you didn’t want anything competitive?”

                “We can just do the rides.”

                “You both fly fighter jets for a living and you’re going to go thrill seeking at Belmont? Huh. That’s actually not a bad idea.”

                “Yeah? You think he’ll like it?”

                “Seriously, you could suggest watching infomercials and getting pizza delivered and he’d do it, and like it…”

                Bradley pulls a face, because he fucking doubts it, but he feels like Belmont Park will be okay. Fun. He lets Natasha leave, insists he doesn’t need her help anymore. He’s decided, even if he’s a little jittery thinking about the fact that he didn’t leave himself more time between asking Hangman out and them deciding the next day was a good day and time. He showers and dresses, pulling on his darkest jeans and oh fuck… maybe he should have kept Natasha here after all. He picks up his phone, opens it up to send her a message and there it is. A message telling him what to wear and he laughs. God she knows him so well. Not a Hawaiian shirt, he can manage that.

                He blasts his rev me up playlist on the way to pick up Hangman, hoping it might fill him with some confidence, and it all slips away anyway as Hangman walks down the steps toward him. He looks relaxed, also wearing jeans though his are lighter colored, and he’s wearing a hoodie, something he doesn’t think he’s ever seen Hangman wear.

                “Am I dressed okay? You’re wearing a proper shirt…”

                “Uh, you’re fine. Thought we could go to Belmont.”

                “Oh cool, I haven’t been to Belmont in years.”

                “Yeah, I thought we could do some rides, eat overpriced food, maybe do some games. I didn’t want to pick anything solely competitive…”

                “Afraid of losing to me?”

                Bradley rolls his eyes, but Natasha’s words from earlier and running through his head, that this is Hangman’s way of flirting.

                “Already got a date with you, pretty sure that’s all the winning I need.”

                Jake blushes. Fucking blushes and Bradley looks away and grins, realizing he can throw Jake off with sincerity. He can do that, especially because Jake is even more gorgeous when he looks a little flustered. He reverses back onto the road and heads out, wonders if it’s going to be awkward but Hangman is filling the silence, asking questions about what he’d done with his day off today and talking about what he’s done. The twenty-minute drive goes by quickly, easily, and it makes him feel better about the date ahead. He parks the car and gets out, locking it and then looks up, Hangman has his back to him, is staring up at something, he can’t look because his eyes are fixed on the back of Jake’s back, the word Roosters stretched between his shoulder blades.

                He is so fucked.

PART FOUR

[joesanrio]

He’s mad now | R.R

Summary: Nova coming back from college was one of the best days- or I guess nights of her life.

Pairings: Joe Anoa’i x Nova (OC) || non-established relationship

Warnings: arguing, cheating, kissing, pet names (princess,baby), grinding, dry humping, fingering.

Rating: 18+

A/N: …something about Joe being irritated or arguing with someone just sounds so hot. Also, I gave Joe a diff girl instead of Galina bcs I can’t do my girl like that. #whenjoeaintlookingimsnatchingherup

———————————————————

It was the first weekend back in Florida after graduating college, everyone is excited and wanting to celebrate. Luckily tonight was just something that wasn’t all about me and just about seeing each other again.

“But you guys- I don’t drink.” I say as Takecia is trying to get me hype for the night at the club. “That doesn’t matter- we’re still going to have fun.” She smiled as I nodded in agreement. I sit on the living room couch as we are waiting for the last couple to show up.

Joe and Kira, they started dating while I was in college and supposedly are so in love. Though, Joe was not guaranteed to wait for me while I was at college, that selfish part of me wishes he did. “Sorry guys.” His voices eases into my ear, I didn’t look up though wanting avoid any eye contact at all costs.

“Got damn, might as well have a sleepover- took so long.” Jimmy complained jokingly while greeting Joe. I grabbed my small purse as I stood up and got ready to greet the couple myself, “You look… cute!” Kira greeted me with a forced smile. “Oh.. thank you!” I pretend not to notice her “compliment” tone, a small nod towards Joe as I walk past the couple to Jimmy at the door.

“Nova, remember you taking us home.” Jey pointed as he walked up to me by the door, “Got it!” I smile.

I get in the passenger seat of Jimmy’s car as Jey and Takecia get in the back, Kira and Joe riding separately. “That Kira chick is already ruining the mood.” Takecia complained as we haven’t even left the driveway and we can see her complaining through the passenger window of Joe’s car. “Aye- no bad vibes and we ain’t even leave yet.” Jimmy said as he pulls out the driveway.

[ Club : 9:25pm ]

“No. She just asked if I saw her boyfriend, I was not flirting!” Joe explains for the 5th time since they started arguing. They’ve had about 4 arguments since we got to the club and 3 of those were stupid little things like;

“You need to stop being so stiff!” Kira complained.

“I’m not-“ Joe denied.

“Yes! you literally are.” Kira drags on drunking-ly.

If there was an award for best party poopers they would definitely get it about now. “You know what. I’m so sick of your bullshit- every time we go out you always ruin it!” Kira shouts in Joe’s face as he rubs his forehead, “Okay, let’s go home then.” He offers while trying to calm the situation as the people close to them look over. “No fuck you! Fuck her and you can stay with your bitchy ass cousins and sleep there!” She exclaims as she storms off with the keys.

“Kira! You’re drunk!” I say going after her, “Oh my gosh, who do you think you are? Superman or something- leave me the hell alone!” She rolls her eyes before walking away again. “Maybe call someone to get you? You look really drunk, is all.” I try to reason as she glared at me, “Fine! Now move.” She shoves me while taking out her phone.

Walking back to where the rest of the group was, Joe seemed so confused about the situation as he sat with a beer. “Man- now we gotta sad Uce and raging drunk outside.” Jimmy said seriously though the small laughs didn’t fail to find there way after. “No. I’m good- she’ll snap out of it tomorrow morning.” Joe says as he takes a swig from his beer, “Y’all go ahead.” He nods.

Everyone still unsure but leaves to go back to whatever they were doing, but I find myself not wanting to leave him. “Joe… you sure you alright.” I ask softly before sitting next to him, he hums as he plays with the seemingly small bottle in his hands. “Nova, I know you don’t like her.” He looks up at me from the random space in front of him, “I do. Why-“ I go to defend myself before he cuts me off.

“I can hear the way your voice spikes up at the end of your sentences, you always do that when you’re uncomfortable or trying to fake something.” His eyes looking endearingly into mine, the small details only one who paid close attention would know he says like it’s obvious. “You got me..” I joke as he lets out a light huff of a laugh, “I missed you. You can’t tell anyone, but I dated her in hopes to forget about you.” He practically whispers as his hands find themselves onto his temples. “I- I missed you too. I still do.” I let my smile fall as I feel the reoccurring feelings I have for him, make there way to the surface.

“You do hm?” I could hear the smirk in his tone, I roll my eyes playfully at his now relaxed demeanor. “Stop! I’m being serious. I really do.” I laugh lightly as Joe stands from the booth, “Come with me.” He sticks his hand out for me to grab. My eyebrows rise questioningly before gabbing his large hand, I say nothing as he guides me to VIP area. “Oh hey man! Come on.” The bodyguard greeted Joe before pulling back the rope.

“So you’re telling me, we could’ve been over here the whole time! Your cousins are gonna be pissed.” I laugh as he smiles in agreement. “Our secret m’kay?” He places a finger over his mouth in a shushing manner, I nod as we walk up to the tucked away seating area. He pulls the curtains closed as I observe the area, “Nova, I really want you.” He states with a eager look in his eyes.

“You do hm?” I mock his past words as he takes quick notice and stands in front of me, “mhm I do.” He grabs the back of my neck delicately, pulling me up to meet his lips. The strong taste of beer on his lips, it’s disgusting but the soft note of coconut is coming through from his chapstick. “I really missed you.” He smiles against my lips, and his other hand finding its way to my ass causing a gasp to leave my mouth. His tongue slipping in between my lips with ease, melting into his touch, my hand grips his forearm while the other wraps around the neck and pulls him closer.

“Joe. Oh my-“ I moan quietly into his lips before pulling away, his eyes immediately going down to my wet, plump lips. He quickly sits down onto the sofa before pulling me onto his lap, causing my dress to rise up a bit. “You look so gorgeous.” He whispers before placing his thumb onto my lips and playing with the bottom lip. I unintentionally begin grinding on his lap before he pulls me back onto a kiss, “So needy.” He chuckles while his large hands find there way onto my ass.

“Shit..you feel so good princess.” He groans before pushing me harder against his erection, I moan in agreement as my panties soak against his jeans. His hand leaving my ass to rub little circles on my clit through my wet panties, “Oh. You’re soaked- already? I barely played with you.” Joe teases. My head falls into his shoulder in embarrassment before his fingers find there way onto my entrance.

“Joe…” I moan into his ear as his finger enters slowly, curling and hitting that one spot. “More.” I say breathlessly before he enters a second finger, his pace speeding up. My moans getting heavier and drawn out as his long fingers abuse the perfect spot inside of me. “I’m- m’gonna cum” I gasp as he restlessly pounds into me, “come on.” He smirks as he kisses my neck. I cum onto his fingers before he quickly pulls them out and has me grind onto his hard cock.

“There you go.. almost there.” He coos in my neck before placing a delicate kiss. I whine as I became overstimulated on top of him. “I can’t-“ “yeah you can.” He nods before his head falls back onto the chair, “Shit baby. Oh- fuck.” He groans as he cums in his pants. His grip on my hips getting tighter while holding me against him, “Oh I missed you.” He smiles tiredly.

“Oh my gosh! They’re probably looking for us.” I say remembering about the rest of the group, “Damn I forgot.” He chuckles and lifts me off his lap gently. “You look so fucked out.. and all you did was cum on my fingers.” He looks me up and down as he stands up. I cover my face in embarrassment, then standing up beside him. “I’m glad you’re back.” He pulls me by my waist and gives me another kiss.

[gunilslaugh]

Hi! I'm so happy to see your requests open again. I hope you're doing okay dear 💜

Can I please request another part of Xdinary Heroes as your older brothers and you're dating another member? Let's say there was a time skip (like maybe 3-6 years) and you and the member are about to get married or/and you expect a child?

Take care and drink a lot of water 💜

Thank you! I hope that you are doing ok too! 💜

This is kinda a part 2 to Wait, You're Dating My Member, so there are references to it, but it still can be read as a stand alone :)

All members (U ~ U)

Summary: It’s been six years since you started dating your brother’s bandmate, Xdinary Heroes, now you two are getting married/having a child.

WC:~1.2k

Warning:none 

photo not mine credits to owner.

Gunil

“I can’t believe my bandmate and sibling are getting married,” Gunil cooed whilst looking at the engagement rings on yours and Jungsu’s hands. 

“I mean we’ve only been dating for six years,” you remarked. 

“Yeah.” Jungsu intertwines his hand with yours. “He’s taking our engagement better than when we told him we were dating though. Remember he just stared at us not saying anything,” Jungsu chuckles recalling the memory. 

“That’s right we thought that we broke him,” you laughed too. 

“Because I never saw the two of you dating coming. I didn’t think that it was a possibility, but I’m really happy for you both,” Gunil says. You and Jungsu tying the knot makes Gunil feel really sentimental. He finds it a bit crazy that his member is becoming his brother in law, but likes it nonetheless. He feels elated that he is there to witness yours and Jungsu’s love story unfold. 

“So I get to be the best man right?” Gunil quirked while folding his arms.

“Actually we were thinking maybe Seung-” You began to tease.

“Yah!” Gunil cut you off.

“Yes, you’re going to be my best man,” Jungsu told him.

“As I should be,” Gunil hummed happily.

Jungsu

“And I was worried that the two of you would breakup. Now you’re married with a kid. Jungsu mused as he watched you holding your newly born child in your arms with Gunil holding you in a back hug, head peeking over your shoulder to admire your guys’ child.

“That’s right you kept askinging us if we were sure,” you noted, recalling the past. 

“Yeah I also said to not act couple-ly in front of me.” He shot the both of you a playful glare, but Gunil only held you closer. 

“You think that we’re cute don’t lie,” you sassed him. He does, but he will never admit it, out loud, so he rolls his eyes at you. “As if.” “You two did make a cute kid though,” he says coming up to boops your twos’ child’s nose. “I can’ believe I’m finally an uncle,” he adds. Jungsu was excited to be uncle, he had been waiting for it. He often asked after you and Gunil got married when you were gonna make him an uncle. He sounded like your parents asking for a grandkid.

“Yeah, well when are you gonna give our kid a cousin?” you played. Jungsu blushed, averting his eyes.

“Eventually,” he murmured.

Gaon/Jiseok

“I guess I can’t steal him from you now,” Jiseok told you at your wedding reception. 

“The papers aren’t filed just yet,” Seungmin jokes. 

“Aye!” You smacked Seungmin, your newly wedded husband, in the chest. 

“You know I’m just joking.” Seungmin pulls you into his side and presses a kiss to the crown of your head. 

“Gross,” Jiseok muttered, but he secretly finds it adorable. Since he’s your brother he doesn’t want to tell you how glad he actually is that you and Seungmin have each other. He thinks that the two of you make a really good pair. What you still don’t know is that when he first found out about you crushing on Seungmin six years ago he immediately rushed to tell Seungmin about it. Why? Because Seungmin had told him right after you left on the day he first introduced you two that he was interested in you. Jiseok actually played cupid to get you and Seungmin together. He feels like a very successful cupid now as he watched you and Seungmin cut your wedding cake. Maybe one day he’ll tell you the truth or maybe he won’t. All he knows is that he’s very happy that you and Seunngmin are together.

O.de/Seungmin

“Here we got a gift for you?” You handed Seungmin a bag before sitting beside Hyeongjun, your husband, on the couch.

“What’s the occasion?” Seungmin questioned, looking at the bag. 

“Just open it,” Hyeongjun told him. Seungmin listened, opening the bag to see a folded shirt. He took it out of the bag, letting it unfold.

“World’s Best Uncle,” he read out the words on the shirt. It took him a few moments to register what it meant. “U-Uncle?” he repeated. “I’m gonna be an uncle?” he asked with wide eyes. 

“Yes, I’m pregnant,” you revealed, placing a hand over your stomach. Seungmin jumped up from where he sat to engulf you and Hyeongjun in a hug. 

“Congratulations,” he told you both sincerely. 

“Thank you,” you each said. 

“How far along are you?” Seungmin asked.

“Almost three months,” you replied. Seungmin’s heart was filled with warmth at the news. 

“And I was worried about you hurting Hyeongjun,” he chuckled.

“Even threatened me about it.” You playfully shook your head.

“That really weirded me out,” Hyeongjun noted. 

“Y’know we both like you more than each other, but who do you like more, Hyeongjun?” Seungmin pressed. Hyeongjun smiled smartly.

“My child,” he answered, putting a hand on your belly.

Junhan/Hyeongjun

“I can’t believe you're marrying y/n tomorrow,” Hyeonjun tells Jooyeon.

“Why? Didn’t think that we would last?” Jooyeon said jokingly.

“It’s not that. You two were just such an unexpected pairing to me. Now we’re about to be in-laws,” Hyeongjun explained. Jooyeon laughed loudly.

“What can I say I’m hopelessly in love with y/n. I really care about them,” Jooyeon states. 

“I know you do. Seeing you step up to care for y/n made me see you a bit more maturely you know? As our maknae we always babied you,” Hyeongjun chuckled lightly. 

“You guys still baby me,”Jooyeon grumbled. “But thank you. I promise I’m gonna take the best care of y/n for the rest of my life,” he swore. 

“You better,” Hyeongjun lightly threatened him. 

The next day Hyeongjun tried to hold back his tears as he saw you walk down the aisle to meet Jooyeon. Yes you two were an unexpected pairing to him, but now he thinks that you are the perfect pair for one another. As long as you both are happy and he knows that you are, he couldn’t be more elated about you marrying his member.

Jooyeon

“Aww, you are such a precious little nugget,” Jooyeon coos at yours and Jiseok’s child as they wrapped their tiny hand around his thumb.

“Jooyeon please stop referring to our child as a nugget,” you sighed. 

“What? No! They are the third nugget of Nugget Time. I have to call them a nugget,” Jooyeon insisted. You send your husband, Jiseok, a pleading look. 

“The nugget has a name and it’s c/n,” Jiseok said, patting Jooyeon on the shoulder. Whispering a small “Just don’t call them a nugget when y/n is around” into Jooyeon’s ear. You heard the whole thing but rolled your eyes, but decided to leave them be. You cherished the bond between your brother and husband. Jooyeon cherished the bond between you and his bandmate too. Your baby started to get a bit fussy, so you were quick to take them into your nurturing arms. Jiseok too was quick to join you at your side in comforting your twos’ child.

“My sibling and my member really got married and even have a child now. I guess it really is a small world,” Jooyeon spoke recalling the words Jiseok said when he asked about why out of all people you two had to date each other. Now couldn’t be more glad about it.

[bartychaser]

Hey, ehm so, what I’m about to share is really personal and might trigger people who have to fight bullying and mental and/or physical illnesses bc mention of suicidal tendencies.

Idk what exactly it was but (on Pinterest I believe) someone was like “Yeah but why are there people hating on James? He’s so funny and cool with his pranks and Snivellus, just get your shit together” no he is not and I won’t get my “shit” together.

For me personally he triggers self destructive feelings and behaviours that kept building up since SECOND grade (until 10th I believe it was… could also be beginning of 11th) because there where so many ✨funny and cool✨ people who picked their “Snivellus” and spoiler alert it was always me. They pulled so many funny comments and pranks one me that almost cost me my life in the end and they were not done until 10th grade ended. They bullied me with the knowledge that I was ill in some way bc I told them I was seriously and most probably dangerously ill but at that time we didn’t exactly know what it was.

They bullied me for my illness and that illness wasn’t just “being weird randomly” that illness was a fucking brain tumor (luckily not cancer, I’m fine since I had surgery) that caused an epilepsy which is one of a kind.

The most common form of epilepsy is cramps, lying on the floor, looking funny with the drool dribbling down the chin and almost biting off their tongues (yes that can happen… my cousin is badly disabled bc a seizure damaged his brain at 3 months old).

I had a form of epilepsy which my doctors said they’ve never seen before though they were working in that business for over 40 years and they did their research when they heard about me. I was kind of the only person ever known in german medical studies in the last at least 40 years with those form of seizures. And because they were so unique they fucking sent me to a psychiatry because the doctor I’ve been to MULTIPLE TIMES before always said “Nah you’re just mental”. That also was funny enough to pick on me, rubbing in my face that I was a freak and ill and couldn’t do anything about it and I cannot count how many times I’ve prayed to not wake up. Because of people that acted just like James.

I have the right to hate him because in reality I fear him. I fear people like him because getting to have them in my life almost cost me my life and I’m so damn sure they would’ve laughed it off if I one day stopped showing up and my teacher would have stand in front of them crying because he lost the student that reminds him “so much of his sister” (that’s a quote btw) and had to tell them. I’m so afraid of James-like people and therefore I hate him. Not because he is James, James as a character has nothing to do with my past but he was the reason for another’s miserable past if you know what I mean. And every time he is mentioned making fun of Snape or pulling pranks that harm others (mentally or physically) and not only to annoy them bc that actually is funny, I feel those feelings crawling up again and I know it’s not healthy in any way bc he is just a fictional character and that is enough to get me flashbacks but it is what it is so don’t fucking ever try to tell James-dislikers who’ve openly been through similar things that ✨it’s just fun✨. For people in their past it, too, was just fun, for you it might just be fun, but for people who suffered under that fun it’s not. And not a single soul deserves that. There is not one human being who deserves to be picked on/bullied because others want to have some fun.

And no, I don’t mean to hate on James-likers bc yes, in some storys he really is cool and nice and funny and I can understand what you like about him but looking at what is shown to us in books and films he was a fucking prick who loved bullying Severus and making his time at school a part of his life he probably wishes never happened and that triggers my hate-fear if you know what I mean. I’m not trying to say your just like him, making others wanna end them or something, I’m just saying that there often is a sirius reason to dislike a character other than wanting to be different and cool or whatsoever. Sometimes you try to make someone like James with saying things that actually are triggering like “Hahaha it’s fun” Doesn’t mean you can’t try but be careful and always be respectful with trauma which really can be triggered by just one sentence or character.

I know it’s difficult and I do know there are almost no people who communicate/share their trauma just like I did but sometimes people dare doing this bc on social media they can be anonymous just like me. If my former class mates would read this they had no clue it was me. If my brother read this he had no clue it was me, you get my point? But others don’t have that anonymity bc they already published their name/face whatsoever and if anyone they know would see this they would really be fucked. At some point you probably will trigger someone but that inevitably and that’s okay because you can’t see what they’ve been through and you didn’t do it in purpose. But if someone tells you to just leave that topic no matter which topic, there. Is. A. Reason. (Probably) Respect their “no”

P.S. okay that sounds a little aggressive and guilt tripping, I’m sorry but I don’t know how to say that otherwise that was not my intention😭

[whisperofsong]

Pairing: Jake Hangman Seresin x Female Reader

Summary: One encounter results in a special bond.

Word Count: 1,419 words

Note: This was written for @roosterforme ‘s Valentine’s Day challenge!  Thank you for reading and supporting my writing🙂

____________________________________________

“What did your arch nemesis do this time?” Jake asks while folding his arm behind his head to support it while lying on his less than comfortable bed.

“You mean my annoying coworker?”

“Aren’t the identifiers interchangeable?”

“You got me there, Seresin,” you admit.

A knowing smirk is etched across Jake’s face because even though you two aren’t together, he can envision your smile.  After you regale Jake with the details concerning your coworker’s latest antics, your head swims with the conversations you’ve had with him over the last few months.  The nightly phone calls have become routine and, truthfully, the best part of your day.

Several months ago, your cousin, Bob, invited you to a New Year’s Eve party hosted by one of his colleagues/friends, Javy, also known as Coyote. You had been reluctant to go, considering you wouldn’t know anyone besides Bob and worried it may appear as though you were imposing, but Bob was swift to allay your concerns.  Once you arrived, you understood why Bob had no apprehension about bringing you along.  Everyone was amicable and conversational, treating you as one of their own.

Before the party, Bob warned you about a man named Hangman and his relentless bravado.  As a result, you made a mental note to steer clear of the man your cousin depicted as insufferable.  At one point, you were in the kitchen searching for a nonalcoholic beverage when a figure knelt beside you.

“Something I can help you with?” he asked in a southern drawl that momentarily caught you off guard.  His features were chiseled and sharp, a stark contrast to his softer green eyes that held your own.

“I’m not sure.  I was hoping there might be seltzer left, but it looks like I’m out of luck.”

The stranger wordlessly stood up, disappeared for no more than a minute, and returned with a bottle of seltzer.  “Coyote keeps extras in the garage.”

“Thanks,” you reply with a small smile.  After taking a sip of your drink, you lock eyes with the stranger once more.  You assumed he would leave after handing you the beverage, but his current stance doesn’t indicate intentions of leaving.

“Your Bob’s cousin, right?”

“Yes.  I’m Y/N. And you are?”

“Jake,” he replies with a broad grin and an outstretched hand.

You place your hand in his and give it a brief shake.  “It’s nice to meet you, Jake.”  

“Likewise.  Everyone’s been treating you well, I hope?”

“Everyone’s been great!  I’m having fun.”

“Good.  Otherwise, I’d have to kick some ass,” he shares in a playful tone.

“I’ll keep you around if Hangman makes an appearance,” you joke and Jake’s expression changes from amused to serious.

“Hangman?” he echoes.

“Bob mentioned that your colleague, Hangman, is quite a handful.  With the way he described the guy, I’m amazed there’s enough room for him and his ego in his aircraft,” you tease with your lips pressed to the rim of the bottle before taking another sip.

Jake temporarily hangs his head before returning your gaze. “It’s a tight fit, but I manage.”

Your eyes widen as you slowly lower the drink in your hand. “You’re Hangman?”

“I am.  I see my reputation precedes me, although apparently that’s not a good thing.”

“I’m…I’m sorry, I…”  You frantically search for words, the right ones, but they’re nowhere to be found as Jake’s green eyes capture yours with a hint of a smile.  It doesn’t look like you’ll be receiving an invitation here ever again, says your inner voice.

“I should go,” you mumble, eager to remove yourself from the awkward situation, but his fingers brush your wrist as you attempt to escape.

“I’d actually like you to stay.”

“Even after I inadvertently insulted you?” you ask with a bemused and incredulous expression.

“It’s not like you didn’t make a point.  I know who I am and I’m well aware of what others, including my teammates, think of me, but I don’t make apologies.  And you shouldn’t apologize for who you are either.”

“Who am I exactly?” you inquire, curiosity reflected in your eyes.

“A woman who isn’t afraid to be blunt.  I respect that.”  

If the twinkle in his eye was any indication, you knew he did and perhaps it was that twinkle that persuaded you to stay, as Jake requested.

A week after the party, an unfamiliar number appeared on your screen and you decided to answer it.  “Hello?” you ask, balancing it on your shoulder as you amble from the office to your car, one of the few remaining vehicles in the spacious parking lot.

“I’m surprised you answered.  I was expecting it to go straight to voicemail,” says a male voice.

“Who is this?”  The reception isn’t the greatest, thereby making it difficult to determine who the voice belongs to on the other end.

“I’ll give you a hint.  A guy who carries around an inflated ego.”

You place your belongings on the passenger seat so your hand is free to grasp your phone, making it much easier to talk. “Jake.  Or do you prefer I call you Hangman?”

“Jake is just fine.  I hope it’s okay that I called you.”

“Why did you call me?” you ask as you clumsily climb into the driver’s seat.

“I really enjoyed our conversation at the party and was hoping to talk to you some more.  However, I get it if you’re busy-“

“No.  I’d like that, too,” you answer in a rush.

You talked to Jake for the entirety of your commute home, as you prepared dinner, while you cleaned up the kitchen and washed the dishes, and made yourself comfortable on the couch.  You were in the midst of telling Jake a funny incident that occurred at a family barbecue when you glanced at the clock, which read 8:07 p.m.

“Oh my gosh,” you sputter.  “Jake, we’ve been on the phone for three hours!”

“Have we?” he responds in a nonchalant tone.  “It feels like ten minutes.”

“Yeah, I know what you mean,” you say as you pick at a loose thread on your pants.

Ever since that initial phone call, you and Jake have spoken on the phone multiple nights a week, discussing everything and anything. Your childhood and the contrast between life in a big family like his and a small family like yours.  Middle school spelling bees and football games. Embarrassing moments and pivotal ones. Workplace anecdotes and vacation mishaps.  Conversation is effortless and you realize that you’ve never experienced that sort of easiness with anyone.

Now, as you lay in your bed, with your head positioned sideways on one of your decorative pillows, you’re pulled away from your reverie by an extended sigh on the other end.  “It’s kinda funny, Y/N.”

Your eyebrows crinkle and your eyes flicker to the ceiling. “What’s funny?”

“I mean…we’ve only known each other for what?  Three months?  And yet I feel like I’ve known you forever.”

“It’s because of all this late night talking, Jake,” you say as you grin to yourself, your body humming in contentment.

“And I’ve loved every minute of it, Y/N.  I wouldn’t want my nights looking any different,” he replies confidently.

“I didn’t realize you’re the sentimental type, Seresin.  A secret softie,” you jest.

“Only for you,” he clarifies in a lower, huskier voice.

The lower register causes your stomach to do somersaults, a sensation you haven’t felt before with Jake, yet it’s an undeniable feeling.

“Can I tell you something else, Y/N?”

“Uh huh.”  You gulp as you await his words.

“I’ve never been a fan of change, but…I’d follow you to any place. I like being with you.”

His words settle in, seeping into your skin and taking up space in the hollow parts of yourself that only you know about.  His words almost make you forget you ever felt empty at all.

“I like being with you, too.  As much as I love our phone calls…I think I might like you next to me better.”  Silence follows and you internally wince at your honest declaration.  You consider apologizing and taking it back when Jake’s voice greets your ears.

“I can be there in less than twenty,” he says softly.

Relief consumes you and a genuine smile, the only kind of smile you’ve known since Jake entered your life, appears on your face.  “See you then.”  And for the first time, you don’t experience disappointment when you end your call with Jake, because he’ll soon be with you, where he belongs.

[cheeriecherrymain]

Incorrigible Flirts And Besweatered Men [Chapter 13]

Pairing: TA!Viktor x fem!Reader Chapter Rating: E (18+) Warnings: This chapter is Explicit. Minors, do not interact. If you read this, you are doing so at your own discretion and risk. Also the parts and pronouns used for the reader are that of a cis woman. Again, read at your own discretion. Proofread: Still no lol Chapter Summary: The wedding ends, and you and Viktor head back to the hotel for the night. Also he gives you not one, but two mind-blowing orgasms.

By the end of the wedding, the elderly friends you’d made earlier in the day had departed. They hadn’t intended to stay very long, as they’d wanted to get home before it got too dark, but it had been pleasant getting to know them.

Now, only you and Viktor remain.

Most of the other guests range from tipsy, to absolutely hammered; the two of you are closer to the former, while the bride and groom are much closer to the latter.

It’s fun, watching everyone have a good time.

Though you’ve a sneaking suspicion that Viktor is a little more intoxicated than he lets on.

The two of you had switched over to water about forty minutes prior, not wanting to surpass your limits and end up with your faces in a toilet bowl. That, and you wanted to be sober for the potential activities to still come.

But he was still sporting a rather lovely pink flush across his cheeks, out to the tips of his ears.

“You know,” you say, your speech slowed ever so slightly, “You’re really pretty.”

Viktor tilts his head towards you and smiles, lazy and lopsided. “You have told me this fact several times now, yes.”

“Well, it should be said again,” you pout. “You’re pretty.”

An idea pops into your head then, and you mischievously loop your arm through his so you can comfortably lean against his side. “You’re pretty, Viktor,” you say, much quieter than before, “Especially in a suit. I’ve been wanting to take it off of you all night.”

If the blush on his face darkens, you don’t notice.

“I think that you’ve had a lot to drink,” he replies, pressing a chaste kiss to your forehead.

“I’ve been sipping water for the past forty minutes,” you retort, “I’m nowhere near drunk. Just bold.”

You expect him to rebuff you, still, even if it’s in his own gentle way.

So you’re unable to contain the look of shock when he lowers his voice and replies, “If we are airing out our thoughts, then you should know; I was not lying earlier, when I said I wanted to skip the wedding.”

You frown.

He continues, “When I was zipping up your dress, you looked so delectable. If you had agreed, I would not have wasted a single second laying you out on the bed.”

You barely manage to stop a whine from escaping past your lips, though Viktor is able to catch the way you shift in your seat, pressing your legs together in an attempt to fight off the gathering desire.

“Even now,” he utters, “you look divine. Were my leg not so fussy today, I would probably have stolen you away to some hidden corner by now, and dropped to my knees to feast on you.”

“Viktor,” you squeak.

He smirks against your ear.

“Yes, zlatíčko?”

—

It doesn’t take the two of you very long to head back to the hotel after that. You polish off your bottle of water, and wander around to say goodbye to the people you care about - kissing your incredibly drunk cousin on the cheek, and giving her a warm hug with well-wishes. Your parents are nowhere to be seen, but you don’t much care about them - they’d hadn’t bothered you since you’d spoken out against them at dinner.

The entire way back to your room, you’re vibrating with energy. Nervously chatting Viktor’s ear off about any topic that crosses your mind, while he listens to you with a bemused little smile; from hailing a taxi, all the way to swiping your room key in the door.

It’s only once you’re in the room that you’re able to quiet down, matching the blessedly quiet atmosphere. It’s as if you’re finally able to take a breath again, now in the privacy of your own space, with your own person.

“Are you alright?” Viktor asks, taking a seat to unlace his shoes.

You follow in suit, quirking your brow at him. “Yeah?” you reply, “Why wouldn’t I be?”

He finishes with his laces, and kicks his fancy footwear off, nudging them out of the way. “No reason,” he says. “You just got very quiet all of a sudden, is all.”

Ah.

As he usually seemed to do, he was always more aware of how you were feeling than he let on. You should have expected it by now, in all honesty, but still his attention to your details never ceased to surprise you.

“I think I’m more nervous than I thought I was,” you admit, fidgeting with the straps on your sandals.

His hand sneaking over yours brings you out of your thoughts for a moment.

“You’re allowed to change your mind about this,” he reminds you, his thumb stroking over your knuckle. “If you’re not ready, then you’re not ready.”

Relief floods through your system, though he’d already previously uttered the words to you.

“It’s not that I don’t feel ready,” you promise him. “I want you. I trust you. And I want to take this step with you. I guess I just…” you trail off for a moment, chewing the inside of your cheek. “I’m afraid I’m gonna be bad at it. You know how I am with feeling like I need to be perfect! And I want you to have a good time, but I’m scared I won’t- I dunno. That’s I won’t be good enough for you.”

His gaze visibly softens upon hearing your confession. Pushing himself up off the chair he was seated on, he holds his hand out for you to take, pulling you up with him when your fingers slide into his.

“Might I let you in on a secret, zlatíčko moje?” he asks, and continues when you nod, “I worry that I won’t last long enough to please you.”

“But-”

He cuts you off with a quick kiss.

“You wind me up so much - ever since we met. Your smile, your voice, your humor, your mind. And now, being so close?” he takes your face in his hands, holding you as if you’re the most priceless presence in his life. “The way you smell. The way your lips taste. The way you feel in my hands. You’re more than enough, just the way you are.”

The sincerity in his tone is almost enough to bring you to tears, his words encircling your heart and calming your nerves. You feel so wholly accepted around him - you always have, but now, as he speaks so fondly of you, you feel it stronger than ever.

“Thank you,” you whisper, and for a moment you lose yourselves in a kiss. Chaste and heartfelt, but no less distracting.

—

You head into the bathroom to clean yourself up after that, leaving Viktor in the bedroom to change into something more comfortable. You bring the saucy little nightgown with you, hiding a smirk when you see the way his eyes widen at it.

It doesn’t take you very long to wash the day off: slinking out of your dress and laying it over the edge of the bathtub, then carefully undoing your hair and washing your makeup off. You feel significantly more relaxed after you make yourself more comfortable, and it’s as though you’re finally able to take a breath.

You made it through the day. You stood up to your parents. You danced with your boyfriend, and made friends with a bunch of old women.

You’re content.

When you wander out into the bedroom, the main light is off. Instead, a lamp beside the bed casts warm tones around the room, providing ample reading light for Viktor, who reclines casually on the bed with a book. In only a pair of pajama bottoms, he looks divine - the pale expanse of his chest looks soft and kissable, and more than anything, you can’t wait to leave little marks across his skin.

He doesn’t let you linger in the doorway for long, though. As soon as he notices you standing there, he folds a dag-ear into his novel and haphazardly tosses it aside, gesturing you over.

“Better?” he asks, as you stride over.

“Much,” you reply.

He fully expects you to climb into bed beside him and curl around him, as you’d done the night prior. You, however, have other ideas: you throw your leg over his hips and easily make a spot for yourself atop him, smiling down at him with a cheeky little grin.

His eyes light up when he realizes what you’re doing, and half a second later, your lips meet.

His hands immediately find purchase on your thighs, slowly skimming upwards, further and further, until he comes to a stop at your hips. He kneads his thumbs into the soft fat of your sides, and he pulls his mouth from yours when his fingers dip beneath the hem of your nightie.

“No underwear?” he teases.

You shrug, playfully rolling your eyes. “I thought it would be redundant, since they’d be coming off anyways.”

You share a soft laugh with each other, until you’re cut off with a gasp when he suddenly knocks you off kilter. You tumble sideways, and he uses the momentum to follow you, successfully rolling you onto your back.

He doesn’t leave you much time to be shocked, drawing you into another kiss the moment you’re balanced again. Deeper and warmer than the last, your lips part and your tongues slide against each other. The way he rolls his hips to yours, pressing upon your bare core - teasing.

You can feel how hard he is, through the flimsy fabric of his pants.

His mouth leaves yours, then, nipping and sucking his way down your neck. You know he’ll leave marks in his enthusiasm, and you can’t help the little jolt of pleasure that squirms through you - amplified by a sharp bite to the crook of your throat, soothed by the wet warmth of his tongue.

He continues his path, down over your collar, to the topmost edge of your nightgown, where he lays a kiss on the last expanse of exposed flesh.

He peeks up at you, his amber eyes darkened with lust, asking for permission to continue.

You nearly get tangled with how quickly you shove the fabric away, baring yourself to him even further. He’s quick to palm at you, rolling one of your nipple to a stiff peak between his thumb and forefinger, while his mouth finds the other. He laves his tongue over the bud for a couple seconds, before closing his mouth over it to deliver a harsh suck.

You whine in earnest, grinding yourself up against the tent in his pants.

His hand then abandons your breast, tiptoeing lower and lower until he finds the crux of your thigh - not quite touching you where you want him most.

You’re about to protest again, to ask him to give you more, but he is decidedly merciful tonight. His thumb ghosts over your hole, gathering up some of the wetness there, making easier the glide over your clit. Slow, lazy circles, not enough to bring you closer to orgasm, but enough to make you want.

He pulls his mouth off you with a wet pop, and he stares up at you with troublesome mischief.

“You’re already this worked up?” he teases, throwing you for a loop with a couple swift flicks over your clit.

“Like you’re - ah - one to talk!” you gasp back, squirming beneath his touch.

“Fair enough,” he sighs. “Do you know what I would really love, though?”

A whine catches in your throat, when he suddenly pulls his hand away from your pussy, and brings his thumb to his mouth to make a show of sucking your wetness off.

“I would love to taste you. To feel you come on my tongue.”

“Please!” You’re desperate, spreading your legs a little further beneath him.

He wastes no time in diving between them, licking a flat stripe up your slit and he holds your thighs open. He brings the tip of his tongue to a point at the end, making sure it catches on your clit to send little jolts of pleasure through your body.

Your cries are airy and wanting, as your fingers grip tightly at your nightgown to hold the hem out of the way.

Viktor makes quick work of you, his tongue warmer and far more versatile than his thumb had been - how easily he riles you up and has you going slack under his ministrations. Circling around your clit, then flicking it, then wrapping his lips around it to deliver a hard suck before slowing down to kitten licks.

You can’t find it in you to be embarrassed about your breathless little noises - far noisier than you’d ever been on your own. You want him to know how good he’s making you feel.

And then the familiar feeling of fingers at your entrance, tracing slowly over your slick folds while his tongue continues working on you. Dipping into your hole for a fraction of a second, before pulling back out - you know what he’s doing.

He’s trying to kill you.

“Viktor,” you gasp with trembling breath. “Please. Please- your fingers-”

You don’t need to beg more for him, as he sinks two of his digits into you as far as they’ll reach. He’s slow at first, almost tender, sliding into you at a leisurely pace. Only when he starts spreading his fingers do you squeak, falling back into the cushions with a poof.

He alternates between stretching your open and curling against your sweet spot, lewd sounds emanating no matter which direction he takes. You’re more turned on than you think you’ve been, with shaking thighs and shuddering breaths.

It’s no surprise that he brings you to the edge so easily.

“Viktor,” you whimper, “Please, please don’t stop-”

You crack your eyes open to look at him, to find him staring back at you with an intensity and lust you’ve never been the recipient of. His desire is enough to knock you over the edge, your orgasm cresting as you mewl and writhe beneath him. You’re floating, warm and safe and entirely blissful - heart fluttering in your chest. All is right in the world.

And then you come down from your high. Catching your breath while you remain boneless.

Viktor slides his fingers out of you and brings them to his lips, cleaning off the mess you left behind.

“Divine,” he mumbles, his tone low and inviting.

You surprise him by pulling him down into a kiss, and after some wiggling and finagling, you find yourself on top of him again.

“I want you inside me,” you all but beg against his lips, and he groans into your mouth.

“Patience-” he tries to say, but you’re having none of it.

“I want you to fuck me, Viktor. Please, please-”

Unable to resist you, he reaches over to the bedside table to fetch a little foil package he’d set out, that you hadn’t noticed prior.

You hastily tug at the waist of his pants, until he gets the idea and lifts his hips enough for you to slide them down - not all the way, you’re far too impatient for that - but enough that you’re able to bring him out into your hand.

You’re tentative at first, wrapping your hand around his cock in the barest of touches. He jumps at the contact, and you risk glancing up at him - slack-jawed and dazed, intently watching your hand where you squeeze around him.

You slowly gather up some of the wetness from the tip of his cock, red and drooling, and use it to slicken your movements. Slow at first, as he had been with you. Testing the waters, and gauging his reactions to how you touched him. He’s completely forgotten about opening the condom, distracted by the glide of your hand over his length.

He’s quieter than you were, you realize, his sounds mostly consisting of soft gasps and hitches in his throat. But he’s in heaven - as much is obvious with the way he’s pink all the way to the tips of his ears, and the way each breath shakes as he draws it.

Until his hand is atop yours, stopping your movements altogether.

“You alright?” you ask, looking up at him with a coy little smile. You know damn well that he’s alright, but you want to hear him say it.

“I don’t want to finish yet,” he murmurs. “Not in your hand, at least.”

“Not this time, you mean,” you chirp, and for a moment, the two of you share lopsided grins.

He hands you the condom, and you’re quick to pinch the tip and slide it down over him, giving a few strokes to test that it’s in place. It seems to be, fitting comfortably over his thick cock. You wonder momentarily if you’ll be able to take all of him, though you quickly abandon the thought.

Of course you will. He’d been so diligent when he’d stretch you out, brought you wave after wave of pleasure. You ache with how badly you want to feel him.

You shuck your nightgown off fully, haphazardly tossing it aside. Viktor stares without an ounce of shame, his gaze trailing over every curve and dip in your form: though he loses some of his focus, when you start grinding against him, sliding your slick folds over his cock - again and again, until you finally change your angle, and allow the tip to catch on your hole.

Then, you sink down.

Inch by inch.

He’s thicker than he looks, you think. You’ve never felt so full before, never felt so close to bursting. He stretches you so perfectly, with only the barest hint of a burn as you slowly, slowly, take more of him.

His thumbs rub small, reassuring circles into your hips, helping to hold you steady and make sure you don’t get too overzealous. He murmurs soft praises to you -or, you assume they’re praises- in his native tongue. You don’t really understand what he’s saying, but he speaks with such an intimate reverence that you’re certain you know what he means.

And then, you begin rocking. Once your hips have met each other, you pull away, only to slide back down. The way he drags inside you is nothing short of divine, and you’re positive you’re not the only one who thinks so.

It takes mere seconds for the two of you to build a rhythm, an equal amount of roll and thrust. The burn from moments ago has faded, replaced by hot pleasure that you know you won’t be able to come back from - your fingers would never be enough anymore, now that you’ve had a taste of him.

You’re not shy, letting him know how good he feels.

Your moans are broken little things, cracked and faltering as his hips meet your quicker and quicker.

You slouch forward, letting your palms fall flat onto his chest.

Then all at once, one of his hands abandons your hip, sliding to the back of your neck to pull you down into a searing kiss - open mouthed and wild, tongues slipping over each other in a desperate frenzy.

His other arm wraps around your midsection, keeping you flush with his body while he thrusts up into you. Harder, deeper, faster than before, the new angle reaching places you’d never felt.

A wanton wail escapes past your lips.

Viktor is quick to soothe you with another kiss.

But you’re too far gone.

Worked up already from your previous orgasm, you can’t do much more beyond cry out to him for more. More, more, more.

And so close to him now, you can hear the way Viktor’s voice cracks and catches in his throat, as if he’s barely holding on.

“Come for me,” you beg, slipping a hand between your bodies to toy with your slick clit. “Come for me, Viktor.”

Neither of you last long after that. You tumble headfirst into another delightful orgasm, to the slick sounds of your pussy gushing around him.

You don’t even have time to feel embarrassed about the mess you know you’ve made, with how Viktor hisses something you can’t understand, and then holds you tight to his body while he spills into you.

You lay there for what feels like forever, breathing hard with sweat-slick skin. With your ear on his chest, you can hear how his heart flits and begins to slow, matching your own as you slowly begin to return to each other.

The rest of the night feels like a daydream, touching each other constantly, sharing kisses and soft words as you clean each other up and tuck into bed.

Viktor is the first to fall asleep, worn out after a day of socializing and a night of bliss.

Looking down at him, your heart is full.

And before you flip off the lamp, you whisper to him.

“I love you.”

[cuddl3s4shur1]

When All Said and Done…Take Time

World We Created

Shuri X Black Fem

Summary:After receiving a message making you go through memory lane you try to forget it but it takes time

Authors note: Enjoy part 4 also this has spelling errors for days

Timeline:After Wakanda Forever

Warning: ANGST but as Kevin Gates says "slow slow slow" burn into sexual tension

Taglist: @tuesdaylovesu(wifey fr) @shuri-my-love @locoforshuri @writesbyriri @lunax0654 @ziayamikaelson @randomhoex @niaalove @womenlxver @secretgyals @saintwrld @shuriislut @adeola-the-explorer @yvxmpire @2k7-sparkles @atssukoo

(If you want to be added fill out the form)

Sun all on your skin and I'm watchin' it Light Up,-Giveon

ㅤㅤ✷ ࣭ ࣪ ˖ ☞ ࣭ ࣪ ᩠ ֗ ✦ ࣭ ࣪ ˖

Y/n's Pov

You look over the message smiling remembering the memories in the book.

"You good"

"Y-yeah just uh looking at a message"

You begin to put your phone down on the table and you scroll.

"So first we need to do are guest list"

“Right”

“So who do you want for your guests where going to do 35 each”

“Obviously my parents and siblings,some cousins my friends and yeah I’ll just make a list”

“Ok Here’s the paper to write the list for”

You begin to write your list that consists of your parents siblings aunts uncles cousins friends and that was it.

“You done with your list”

“Yeah I want my mom my sister my brothers my little sister My 3 incles my 3 aunts my grandparents my 10 big cousins my 5 little cousins my close friends you know shuri Riri mya danny thena “

“Wait hol up did you just say shuri”

“Yeah I said shuri what’s wrong with shuri”

“She obviously has feelings for you plus that’s your ex”

“What’s wrong with my ex being my friend”

“Everything knows you can’t be friends with your ex “

“Is that everybody or just you because it sounds like your jealous”

“Why would I be jealous”

“She’s shuri the black panther the queen a boss my ex “

“Ok that makes sense but can you befriend her”

“Why because she’s my ex and you think anytime I’m in a room with her I’m like lets fuck!”

“That’s not what I meant “

“Than what did you mean because for all I know what your saying is you can’t trust me and that y/n’s going to manipulate me and cheat on me”

“I do trust you it’s shuri I don’t trust”

“Why”

“Because she’s flirtatious “

“So her love for me doesn’t effect us”

You obviously knew you where lying your ass off but she didn’t need to know that

“Can you just befriend her “

“Even if I do I’ll still see her at work”

“Work what do you mean work”

“She’s my boss where you not listening when I told you a quarter of what she does”

“Not really “

“Your making this argument worst now yes she is my boss but we barley see each other unless we have a meeting and she’s making sure I’m doing good”

“Meeting “

“Yes meeting like I said she is my boss”

“So that means you 2 are in a room with eachother”

“Yes”

“So basically you guys are fucking at work”

“So you really can’t trust me “

“I trust you just not with shuri”

“ yeah shuri is flirtatious but I turn her down every time so why don’t you trust me”

“It’s hard to explain”

“Just explain why you don’t trust me with shuri”

“Because you can be flirtatious which can lead on to cheating “

“So what I’m hearing is you think ima a cheater every time I with shuri”

“No I’m saying you working for shuri can lead to cheating”

“So you want me to not pay bills “

“No you need a job of course “

“Exactly I need to work with shuri”

“No just get a new job”

“Ky talk to me and be honest what is it with you and shuri”

“You got 5 minutes to explain or I’m going to either my friends or my moms house for the next couple nights “

“We-Wel-Well I can’t give a valid reason”

“So you can think oh y/n’s going to cheat but you can’t give a good reason “

“Shi I guess”

“You sound stupid as fuck”

“No I don’t “

“Yes you do your making all these ideas in your head thinking about how I could cheat with shuri yet I told you multiple times how I don’t love her”

“It’s not stupid it’s an observation”

“Well for the next couple nights have A observation on why half the bed is empty”

During the whole conversation you where packing your bags while ky was trying to stop you. You decided you where just going to go to a hotel and stay their for a while because ky needed to understand some things before you could plan the rest of your wedding.

You where going out on a Sunday partying on a Sunday.Do you have work tomorrow hell yeah . Will you go to work drunk,probably .is this a bad idea ,Definitely.

You and Danny where making your way to the club.Danny was your closest friend and you knew each other since kindergarten. “You look so good tonight but the club is probably like empty it’s Sunday”

The club was in fact not empty and quiet it was crowded and loud You didn’t want to drink due to you not wanting to go to work drunk.

They played practice by drake slowly mixing into back that ass up . You would twerk but your skirt was to tiny for twerking ,to much twerking and it would just show ass. Instead you where just going to grind but not to much you still had a fiancé.

No one was behind you until you felt a hand on your waist.The single hand started to make you arch.You started hearing “ohs” and “ahs” lights start to flash .you become confused at that reactions.You turn your head seeing the queen.

I “Shuri what are you doing”

“what are you doing “

“Huh”

“You have a fiancé and your at a club what are you doing “

“Argument”

“May I ask what about-”

“You”

“Me, I feel honored”

“Yes you”

“Why”

“Kyrah”

“What about her”

“She doesn’t believe we can be friends”

“Why”

“Look ,I came to the club so I can forget her I don’t need you to remind me”

“Being feisty huh”

“You would say”

Shuri’s head lays on your shoulder as you guys dance together.Shuri knew how to hold you right.She know her hands placed on the right place could make you melt.

You did miss the world you and shuri created with good and bad times funny and sexy .

Right now you and shuri both where in the world y’all created .

ㅤㅤ✷ ࣭ ࣪ ˖ ☞ ࣭ ࣪ ᩠ ֗ ✦ ࣭ ࣪ ˖

When All Said And Done...Take Time-Series Masterlist

[birlwrites]

hm, that ttdl chapter was a ride. first things first, barty, darling, are you okay? i feel like. this whole i can suddenly tell when people are lying thing is either going to come in handy, or cause a whole lot of problems. i’m really curious as to what, exactly, nonsense abtruse is about because, as of right now, it’s, well, nonsense. i don’t quite remember if it’s been explained in the story already, but has regulus failed to understand it, or has he not really tried? because he’s had the book for a while now.

i’m really worried about how regulus is going to deal with barty’s involvement in all of this because, if he’s already feeling guilty over him having a headache and rambling, i can’t imagine how he’s going to deal with barty inevitably doing or experiencing unpleasant things when they get more involved with the war. also, regulus referring to him as his best friend just made me ridiculously soft. butter on a hot toast, noodle in a pot, stuffed animal. just very, very soft.

the tutoring session. oh, boy. regulus being very uncomfortable with the whole getting help thing and evan just: "oh, your parents are cousins that’s why you suck." like that’s not what he means at all, but that’s how it sounds at first and regulus is just mortified, that was hilarious to me, i’m sorry, i don’t know why regulus thinking his Crush That He Hasn’t Quite Realised Is His Crush Yet is taking the piss out of him makes me laugh so much. there might be something to unpack here.

also, evan just handing him his heir ring and regulus going like "doesn’t that mean anything to you???" was definitely something to note. what does it mean to you, regulus?

anyway. the mcgonagall & barty team up next chapter has me curious after barty just mentioned his suspicions about her being able to stare into people’s souls.

— 💌

AFJSLGHSJKDFDHSJFLKD THERE'S SO MUCH GOING ON IN THIS CHAPTER

knowing when someone is lying doesn't necessarily mean you know what the truth is, and there are quite a few people out there who prefer to twist or misrepresent the truth anyway rather than telling outright lies, which means that barty's new talent can be useful but also can't be taken at face value, and in case of lies, he may need to do some digging to find out the truth!

regulus has never tried to read it - he's been preoccupied with other things that have more direct and obvious applications, mainly mind magic, the family specialty (in limited amounts), and a whole lot of warding

regulus will also need to get accustomed to letting barty handle himself, part of which entails barty proving that he *can* manage more intense situations well. regulus definitely feels a sense of responsibility for barty (as he says outright in ch 37) but it's mostly with regard to the milieu that he's brought barty into - he'll essentially be forced to get used to barty doing dangerous shit lol, which will get easier as barty continues to do it and come out the other side mostly unscathed (which will be an enviably steep learning curve, but still a learning curve)

THEY'RE BEST FRIENDSSSSSSSSSSSSS and regulus is emotionally competent enough to recognize *that* at least

JFSFLFHGSJHGKDFJHSJ evan is too preoccupied by his Breakthrough and He Has Solved The Mystery!!!!!!! to consider that perhaps he should phrase things differently from how they popped into his head, he's just very excitedly sharing his insights and regulus is dying

THE HEIR RING YES because no matter what it means to evan, it means quite a bit to regulus even if he's not exactly willing to articulate that (even to himself)

the mcgonagall and barty team-up is related to both academics and the turmoil barty mentioned earlier in the chapter!!

<3 <3 <3

[traumasurvivorshelpingsurvivors]

Tw: idk if there needs to be any? Invalidation?

Do you know if it’s normal or why I might instantly forget I’m a trauma survivor when people call me a liar and give their “reasons” for why they think I’m a liar or why I happen to be the abuser (which i logically can recognize they miss out on parts of the story or the covert antagonization my abuser did that made me react and attack and bully her for “no reason”) like I instantly believe them and question myself… I forget almost in a way that I was traumatized even though I’ve developed CPTSD bc of it and am trying to get therapy for jt (but my parents are really controlling and rn I’m already at a psychiatrist for meds for one diagnosis) and asking for therapy will be too much. Last time I went to therapy the dr was abusive so I had to quit. And ugh I’m sorry its a lot but yeah.

Hi anon,

I'm so sorry about what you've been going through. Invalidation is horrible.

So I can speak from experience that when someone denies what I've been through, it's hard for me to be okay with that because I feel like I have to convince everyone of my story. But I've been working with my therapist on recognizing that not everyone will believe my story, and it doesn't mean it didn't happen.

Personally I feel like if someone doesn't believe me then I have to change my approach somehow. But remember that they have no authority to rewrite my history to fit a narrative that's more comfortable or palatable for them. They do not get to say what did and did not happen especially if they weren't even there. The truth doesn't need their validation to exist.

I think sometimes as well, we can have inner critics or internalized victim blaming that, when someone tells us we're lying, those parts of us are like "yes, finally someone says it!" and so that may influence how much you listen to and believe their accusations.

In my expose, I wrote that "Denial is used to protect oneself against overwhelmingly scary elements of reality. I understand how it can be too scary to entertain the thought that your son, your brother, your father, your neighbor, your husband, your cousin, has done something like this. It’s much easier to deny it than think about what to do if it’s real. But I believe that those who truly want to do the right thing will at some point recognize that they are in denial and will work through the stages of grief at their own pace. I want to try to be as compassionate as possible to people who are skeptical or completely in denial, but please also understand that when you tell someone that their trauma never happened or that they’re making it up, it hits a personal chord and it’s hard not to be upset by that."

Please know that your story is valid, you are a valid trauma survivor, and we believe you.

If anyone else has any experiences or thoughts they'd like to share, feel free to add on. I hope I could help, and please let us know if you need anything.

-Bun

[macapacaalpaca]

About me

I’m so late to the party doing this but better late than never! Thanks for the tag @cariantha

Are you named after anyone?

No, my name was actually a very last minute decision. My parents planed on me being Emma all along but when I was born there were 5 other babies in the ward and 4 were called Emma so they changed their minds 😂 My dad went home from the hospital the night after I was born and picked Kayla out of a baby name book, and here we are

When was the last time you cried?

As far as I remember it was probably at my uncle’s funeral at the end of last year, or some of the days after that. I said the eulogy and kept it together the entire morning but as soon as I got outside the door of the chapel I was sobbing. That being said, I did cry tears of joy on Christmas Day when my cousin told me that he and his wife are expecting their rainbow baby this summer!

Do you have kids?

No, I’m definitely not at that stage in my life yet. My fertility problems have been the biggest heartbreak of my life but showed me that I definitely do want to be a mama one day. I pray that when the time’s right I’ll be able to have my own little miracle 🤍

Do you use sarcasm a lot?

Yes and I can’t help it lol. It’s usually only humorous sarcasm though, I know not to use it in serious situations 😅

What colour are your eyes?

Blue. Very blue - I’ve been told they look like a husky’s eyes 😂

Scary movies or happy endings?

I’m a sucker for a good happy ending

Any special talents?

Nothing drastic, but I’m very good at reading people. Whether that’s being able to tell if they’re lying or what kind of person they are - pick up on it from the very beginning. I’m also trilingual if that counts - I can speak English, Irish and French

Where were you born?

Ireland - dia duit!

What are your hobbies?

I’m easily pleased (and a basic bitch), I love reading, cooking, travel, nights in or out with my girls and have a minute obsession for everything makeup, skincare and hair

Do you have any pets?

No, but I wish I did! I’ve always wanted a dog for as long as I can remember and used to beg my parents for a Westie or a Golden. But I had to give up on that because as it turns out I’m allergic to cats and dogs 😶 The joys of being asthmatic!

What sports do you / have you played?

I’m not really into playing sports much, but I was a Gaelic footballer back in my day!

How tall are you?

I’m quite small - 5’4 or 163cm to be exact 😌

Favourite subject in school?

Home ec or English. I loved cooking classes (some were chaotic) and getting to learn a bit about legal systems too. I only started to enjoy english more in my last year of school but I did really well in it, my teacher was like a second mother to me and we still keep in contact today. I was also one of the only people in my year who actually enjoyed doing Shakespeare

Dream job?

For almost all of my childhood right up to my late teens I wanted to be a teacher and it was very suddenly I changed my mind to law. Everyone was so shocked because they’re polar opposite careers but I took the gamble and went with law. I sat in on court cases during the summer and absolutely loved it and I’m back in next week. I’m not there yet, but in the future I’ll be a solicitor, fingers crossed!

My tagging nominees are: anyone who wants to take part!

[thatclockworkdoll]

A post about unhelpful vagueness, and why blanket generalization hurts far more than ut helps

99% of the time it’s just Teh Juice At It Again, but also a non-zero amount of this is groups that aren’t just a nebulous they, but some group that is extremely easy to dehumanize for [shuffles notes] being more entangled with capital/imperialism than me.

You know what, I think I’m just gonna fan the hammer on examples, just because we *did* just talk about unhelpful vagueness:

- Most people who bought into NFTs, GameStop, and similar hype bubbles are some mixture of gambling addict and scam victim. They are hard to love at the best of times, but that is what keeps them locked in the cycle.

- It is very easy to believe dumb shit about AI. I wasn’t even immune, and had to get schooled on why AI drawings aren’t even good for rough drafts or inspiration. Most people are one or two missing pieces of the problem away from understanding why AI is not as good as they hoped. Speaking of which:

- “Is AI art even art” is a secondary battleground to problems about how they were built and what they’re built of, both in a user data sense and in a material sense. It’s the software equivalent of trying to mandate paper straws; you’re doing a slightly good thing, but the problem is a lot larger than just consumer usage.

- Cops are humans with the potential for noble ideals, can make morally driven judgements, and deserve basic human rights. They are your shithead cousin who votes for republicans but is otherwise a decent guy, but with legal authority and military hardware.

- People in the military aren’t categorically awful either. This is especially true in countries with mandatory service. This is also more true than not when America spends a lot of money advertising it and promises higher education and money for enlisting.

- People do not deserve to die for being in red states. People do not deserve to die for being in red states. People do not deserve to die for being in red states undergoing a natural disaster while the system does nothing for them, can you tell I’m still not over how people reacted to that big freeze in 2021

- If your politics do not support “white trash” the same way it supports other kinds of minority or forms of being unemployed, start over and try again.

- It’s not cute when you are being verbally racist to white people. You’re not funny. Yes I do know we’re talking about systemic issues at the moment, and what we actually mean by racism, but what you’re doing isn’t contributing to anything useful *or* comedic.

- It’s also not cute when you blame actions on being part of a majority (“straight people when”, “are the allos okay”, this general beat). Stop that.

- The best reaction to weird subcommunities on TikTok or whatever is to ignore the cringe stuff. Maybe if you’re lucky it’ll be the narcissism-to-Christian-fundamentalist pipeline, but that is not the majority of the time. People be weird.

- Kinks that are illegal in real life are fine as fiction.

- Kinks are fine in general, provided you actually know how to practice it ethically. RACK is an example of a guideline for doing so ethically.

- Furries are not all about zoophilia. The handful that are only want that as fiction. The fingerful of that handful are near-certainly joking, or are more in need of help than bullying.

- Treat the abuser with dignity too. Most of the time, abuse is perpetrated unwittingly.

- “Who’s the abuser here” is not a conversation you get to have about people you don’t know.

- The possibility of a victim lying isn’t zero. Fortunately this often comes to light very quickly.

- Pineapple on pizza slaps, y’all are just mean

[variouscolors-old]

[ TACKLE ] -[from daisuke]

To be Held - prompts (list)

[ TACKLE ] - sender (playfully) tackles receiver into a hug.

You know when you have those dark days when nothing seems right and your depression is plaguing you with terrible thoughts, the deepest and scariest thoughts, because the day at work was bad and you just messed things up with someone so bad that you feel like this time it's not going to get better?

Yes, it was what poor Rui was feeling right now. He just opened the door of the Yamatoya Ramen restaurant (on a Tuesday, so it was actually Motomiya Ramen turn in the week) and sat in his usual spot.

“Sigh…”

Ukkomon was also there, but silent. He left Rui sitting there and went to talk with Daisuke and V-mon, without Rui noticing it.

“Daisuke, I have to ask you a favor,” Ukkomon started, “Rui… He had a spat with his cousin at work and he got a little upset with everything, so could you… cheer him up?”

Daisuke and V-mon looked at each other, then back to Ukkomon and nodded in return.

“I messed things up… Again,” Rui muttered, his head lying on the counter table.

“Rui!”

“Huh…?”

“Get ready!”

“... ready to wh–?”

Daisuke just tackled him in a hug and almost sent him to the ground, but Daisuke’s strong athletic arms and strength held him tightly.

“??!?!?!?!?!”

“Sorry, you looked like you needed a hug I think,” the other chuckled.

“A-ah… Thanks?”

“What happened?”

"My cousin's husband asked what color our new cupcake flavor should be, and my cousin and I had an argument. She always had been nice and kind to me, so it bugged me that we had a fight for something like that."

“Hmm… I see.”

���I’m afraid she might hate me for that, she’s the owner so her opinion must prevail.”

“But if her husband asked your opinion too, this means yours is also important. Maybe if you talk with her and reach a consensus you guys might forgive each other for that.”

“Oh… R-right. I forgot that you guys said something about… Fighting is a test to your bonds with others, right?”

“Yeah, if everyone agreed with each other on everything, the world wouldn’t be full of flavors. It would be boring, don’t ya think? People having different tastes is what makes me work harder to find the best recipe to offer them.”

“...?”

“Like, Iori hates tomatoes, Miyako and Hikari have a sweet tooth, and you don’t like things that are overly sweet, right?”

“True…”

“I might like everything you serve on my plate, I’m not picky, but even I struggle with something I like less. And I’m pretty sure Ken and Takeru don’t mind anything either, but even they have their own limits.”

“Oh…”

“BUT! I know one thing everyone is in agreement with! That y’all love my ramen! And that y’all get along despite our own tastes.”

Rui laughed lightly.

“Why are you talking about food?” Ukkomon tilted his head.

“Because food is the universal language of love,” V-mon added, immediately.

“Food and love…” Rui and Ukkomon repeated, vaguely.

“Yeah, I’ve learned a lot in this place! Ken joked that I’m looking one of those wise old men who sells street food in a food cart!” Daisuke chuckled, “And I guess this is what I want to do.”

“To be a wise man who sells street food in a food cart?” Ukkomon blinked.

“No, to own my own ramen cart!”

“He’s definitely not wise enough for the rest of that part” V-mon shrugged.

“O-oi, of course I am wise enough for the rest of it!!” Daisuke growled.

Rui laughed again. And instead of Daisuke getting angry, he smiled. Sometimes, being teased by V-mon was the cure for a gloomy day. Making someone smile was worth the teasing. And V-mon didn't want to offend him, that was their thing.

“Are ya feelin’ better now?” Daisuke asked.

“Yeah, thank you guys.”

[takeeachdayonebookatatime]

Why did you elbow me? 193

Achilles Castle part 95

Lemonade and lies Part 38

Nicholas (Nick) Stephen McSwarek undercover part 2

Officer Nicholas (Nick) Stephen McSwarek: pov wow you are quick on your feet, you managed to come up with that story pretty quickly. Captain Beckett is calling the captain from the drug unit to update him and let him know we have a meeting for tomorrow. He tells us to keep it and meet him in his office before the meeting so we can talk about the case.

Ryan: pov i’m having a hard time looking up, Illvan Kravitz. I try searching for his name with the word drug dealer included but nothing comes up. Esposito found a witness, I offered to help him ask the witness questions. She saw a man running away from the crime scene. He looked injured and she didn't see him well enough.

Esposito: pov me and Ryan are both going to check traffic cameras to see if we can see the injured man she is talking about. This is going to take forever, Kate and Nick are back. Ryan is now talking to them both since he used to work in narcotics as a rookie. I finally catch the guy on camera but it's too dark and blurry.

Kate: pov after working a while and finding nothing I tell the boys and Nick they can head home now and I will see them tomorrow. I then head home to get ready for tonight.

Castle: pov Kate what is wrong with this cute dress, Kate says I don't want to wear a dress and it shows my scar. You can't hide your scars forever. What about this shirt? It's very cute.

Kate: pov it also shows my scar which I don't want. I might go with this fancy shirt, it covers my scars.

Castle: pov Kate you should be proud of them. They are proof that you survived and who cares if people stare at you. Dr Burke did say you need to get out of your comfort zone and do things that scare you. That includes wearing clothes that show your scars.

Kate: pov Castle I care if people stare it's embarrassing. Not only am I damaged goods but I also have scars. I can't have people see that.

Castle: pov Fine Kate wear what you want and cover up your scars it's your body your choice, this has to be on your terms not mine. Kate grabs the car keys and we head out, the car ride to the bar and grill is short. Kate had suggested the old haunt but Sophia's boyfriend loves this place they go all the time.

Kate: pov Sophia could have been more accommodating to me and went with the old haunt. I don't even know if this place has food I can eat but then again I don't think she really thought about it. As soon as we walk in I realize the music is very loud. Let's hope there is a quiet spot.

Sophia: pov hi Kate, kirk sanders this is my cousin Kate Beckett she is a homicide Captain and her husband Richard Castle he is a writer.

Castle: pov is there a quiet place we can sit. It's a little loud in here Sophia says yes over here and takes us to a table away from the music. The menu is pretty big. Kate asks Sophia how she and Kirk met.

Kate: pov after Kirk tells me the story of how they met, he asks me if I became a cop because my mother was murdered, yes I did, he also wants to know if the killer was ever caught. Yes I actually had to kill him, we were working a murder case and he was our number 1 suspect. After lying to get immunity. He then grabbed an officer's gun and pointed it at Castle forcing me to shoot him. I'm explaining how my mother died and why she was murdered. Years later I arrested the guy who orchestrated the whole thing. I will save the rest of the story for later. A waiter comes by to take our orders.

Castle: pov Kate is great at speaking up about her health and letting the servers know. She is first to order, she explains to the waiter that she can't have certain food because she has a heart condition and could they cook her food differently. Our waiter Sean black says he will talk to the cook. The rest of us order our food.

Kirk sanders: pov Sophia why didn't you tell me your cousin has a heart condition, she says it slipped her mind.

Kate: pov it slipped your mind Sophia how lucky are you. You know I still can't sleep from the nightmares, and my scars hurt most of the time. Very loud noises like fireworks still bother me.

Kirk sanders: pov Kate, is it okay if I ask about your heart condition, were you born with it she says no. How long have you had it? She says a few years. So you were older when you found out that must have been hard. Kate says you have no idea, do the Dr's Know what caused your heart issues. She almost spits out her drink, did I say something wrong.

Kate: pov yeah a sniper's bullet caused it, Kirk looks confused at what i said then shocked. I explain everything leading up to my shooting. He says so you were shot at your Captain's funeral that must have been hard. Yeah especially with all the betrayal

Kirk sanders : pov what i'm having trouble understanding is, how did getting shot cause your heart condition. Did blood loss play a factor or was it something else.

Sophia: pov Kate was shot in the left chest hence her saying a bullet caused it. The severe blood loss didn't help but that's not what caused it.

Kirk sanders: pov oh okay so the bullet must have caused some damage Kate says more like severe damage. Wow, how long were you conscious after the shooting? Kate says a minute or two, not long. In the ambulance I went into cardiac arrest, I had severe blood loss and chest trauma. To be continued. …………..

[talenlee]

Bloodwork Update 11

Oh snappers it’s another one of these, and yes, I have not forgotten about Bloodwork even if I’m writing this two hours before it goes up!

The world has changed.

Not the world of Bloodwork! It’s still an early 2020s retrocurrent 1990s Vampire Fiction space where a war has broken out between the old vampire organisations and the young outcasts who don’t fit into the older orgs. It’s a space where the old families of noble power filtered through modern day power structures to take up their place in the human-exploitative machinery, the powerful and omnipresent systems that let them feed on humans in our everyday: Unchecked capitalism, and the police. These forces have power that allow them to respond to the random actions of the city around them.

Opposing these systems – not necessarily because they’re good rebels with a strong moral position but maybe just because they also want power and the Old vampires are eating all the pies – are the Young Vampires. Turns out you don’t need a moral framework to respond to radicalisation factors and when you and your enemies are both immortal it creates a new and intense form of impatience. The Young Vampires form gangs, small gangs that have to find ways to act immediately and abruptly.

It’s a choice between having infrastructure and long term plans and the capacity to take immediate, abrupt action.

Mechanically speaking, Bloodwork has really gone places from its original conception. When I started it, it was meant to be a project that was fast and simple to do, a Machi-Koro inspired, faction-free dice roller based on Liar’s Dice. You could roll a number and people had to guess whether you were telling the truth or lying, and if they guessed wrong, or didn’t guess, you got something. If you got caught lying, your opponents would claim an artifact from the cache of old vampire stuff and you only needed to do that a few times to win the game.

Over time talking with my colleagues – god I have colleagues – about it, Bloodwork took on a new idea as ways to represent types of vampire, and then that opened up mechanical space. The idea of a older vampire type playing with dice as a way to connect to older games rolling dice to kinda kick anything off, right?

As other projects (the writing) took my attention, Bloodwork took a backseat and that meant that I’ve actually had enough time since working on it directly that I’ve actually just forgotten a bunch of stuff! The capacity to forget is a super useful thing as a designer because it means you can see your own designs, not remember how you solved a problem, then re-solve it in a new way you find more interesting. That’s pretty cool and also deeply irritating. On the one hand, it’s replicating work, on the other hand it’s making every part of the game something you find more interesting in general.

The other thing that’s changed in the world is that I simply don’t have access to the printing tools I had this time even last year. DrivethruCards, one of the services I used for exclusive card printing games, and why the bulk of my games library is made up of card games, don’t do printing for a variety of games at the rate they used to do. Shipping rates and times for everything outside of Australia has gotten slower and worse.

There are now two services within Australia that offer me apparently the basics of the tools I want, but I can’t promise that they actually do the job they say they do, because neither of them are the same kind of services as Drivethru and its cousin Gamecrafter. Those services used web front ends, which meant that when I wanted to make something, I was just playing with the pieces bit by bit, and as I was building it, I could put the plan together while building it. It was a very different tone.

What I have to do now is instead construct a plan with measurements and send them to a business to be reviewed, and that’s really different to what I’m used to. I haven’t even internalised the names of these companies I’m ostensibly using.

Gamecrafter has its place, though! I can make a plan in Gamecrafter, get a general price point, and see if that makes me comfortable. I know I’m dealing with vibes here – is a game a good enough game for its price point? Personally, I’d love to make my microgames as hook games on Gamecrafter, because it’s so nice and tidy – but there are infrastructural reasons not to.

Basically, if I do that, I won’t be able to sell them at a good rate, right?

Or are all the prices going to go up?

The big development I think for Bloodwork is that I think the game needs a third space. It used to be that the game had a marketplace – just a common space where you could pick up vampires or assets and put blood down to pay for them. The more I think about it, though, if half of the factions are meant to feel like they exist in a city, then it means that there needs to be some feelings of things like a city.

What I think I’m doing is changing the way the market works. Specifically, instead of a marketplace, where you pick vampires freely, Vampires come off the top of a deck, converted out of people in the common area. But people in the common area can take actions and change the game state, so that there’s a reason for you to care about humans. Humans act in the ‘off’ turn – when everyone else is doing things, after that night phase, there needs to be some reward for keeping humans around in your organisation.

Another tool I’ve started playing with lately is a way to talk about how to present a game, in that I need answers to these three principles:

Approach – How does the game get you involved in it?

Interface – How do you interact with the game?

Offering – What’s the fantasy of the game when you’re doing that?

Okay, there, that’s an update, and I have eight minutes to spare.

Check it out on PRESS.exe to see it with images and links!