#(if that makes sense? idk. if not i'll try to word this better later)

[theha1r]

since we’re talking christmas/sad christmas stuff on the dash … now feels like a good time as any to repost this headcanon …

so here's a sad thought: steve has spent most christmases alone since he was ten. aka when his parents stopped being home for christmas. and even before when they were there, it wasn't always great. christmas felt like more of a thing for show, than to actually celebrate and be together. another thing to dress up for, attend some fancy dinner for his dad's company, not be allowed to open gifts until they got home. and the gifts were never very personalized, just generic things a kid would like - considering they never really knew exactly what steve liked. and then it'd be a pat on his head from his dad, a hug from his mom and he'd be sent to bed. and then after they stopped being home, the first couple years they'd send a card at least but then even that stopped happening. steve got pretty resigned to just spending christmas alone and not doing much for it, not even bothering to decorate most years not that the decorations they had were anything special, all flashy, expensive things his mother had bought that again just made christmas feel like something for show. he might exchange gifts with the party and co/robin, but he'd never tell any of them he doesn't have anyone to spend christmas with, lest they invite him and he ends up imposing on their christmas. no, he could never do that. so he just accepts it, watches one or two christmas movies and calls it a day.

[winterzsurprise]

Change My Mind [4]

Pairing: BTS x reader

SUMMARY: As a make-up artist, you were expected to glamorize your clients with brushes and products that cost a week-worth of food, not to befriend them outside of work, let alone have them save you from dates yet here you are five years later as one of their closest confidants.

Being a stylist of the world's biggest boyband is no easy feat, someone is doing flips, someone can't stay still and one's asleep but its fine, you can work around their chaos but then one day, you find out they're all your soulmates, a whole different can of chaos you don't think you can handle.

Tags: Soulmates AU, Friends to Lovers, Eventual Smut, Not Beta Read, Slow Build, Polyamory, Attempts at Humor

Words: 7.1k

nothing much to say this time but this is not beta read, my friend who was supposed to read it is unfortunately unavailable, idk if the argument makes sense in the end cause I personally run from confrontations so idk how to write good arguments so yeah.

ANYWAYS, Happy reading!!

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TAGLIST: @wildestdreamsblog @canarystwin @prettywheenicry @jmnscutie @sassy-snassy @misuguru @11thenightwemet11 @yoongibaybee @rinkud

___________

In all of your years working for Bangtan, as one of their staff and the youngest stylist, you've been included in every life events and celebrations there is. Birthdays, first wins, comebacks, everything there is even something as important as family dinners. You've never skipped or forgot a single member's birthday, period.

But as Guwon stands before you, a plane ticket to Jeju in hand with the departure scheduled tomorrow and returning just a day short before the tour, you find yourself at a crossroad. It’s Jungkook's birthday tomorrow and Jimin has planned a small party tonight at their dorms before the formal celebration at the company the next day.

While you've been trying to rectify the awkward air between you and the maknae since his confession by starting conversations, the maknae only replied to you with silence before promptly vanishing in two seconds flat.

But despite the strain in your relationship, you could never think of not attending his birthday. You'd never thought to be petty enough to return his energy. His present was already wrapped in a pretty bow under your bed for a week now for Christ's sake!

“I-I can't… It's one of their birthday’s tomorrow.”

“Oh.” His smile falls. “Can't you just give your gift today? Surely they can party for one night without you.”

It was a genuine question, logical and true but for some reason, his tone raised concerns within you. You swear to the highest heavens you could hear a bit of irritation hidden beneath dejection.

You winced. “I can't, I'm really sorry… I-I can pay you back what you've spent for the trip. I'm really sorry, I just never missed any of their birthdays. I swear I'll make it up to you next time!”

Guwon's shine dulled the further you went on and your heart twinged with guilt. In another universe where some humans gained animalistic features, he'd have dog ears pressed to his skull, staring at you with wide and glistening eyes.

You waved off the image immediately, disturbed.

“It's also my fault for not asking for your schedule. The tour is next week and then you'd be away from me for months so I kind of… panicked. I'm sorry.”

He should've known better than not to do research on your bosses , a voice at the back of your head scoffed and you waved the thought away as you put a hand over his. 

“I should've notified you as well. Tell me if those are refundable or not, I'll pay you back.”

He waves you off. “Cute but I've been raised well to know not to ask a lady to pay for my mistake, so don't worry that pretty head of yours about not being able to go.”

The date continued and thankfully, no dead air remained and conversation eased out of the both of you. Guwon sorted out his reservations early on, he'd stopped eating every once in a while to pick up his phone to either receive a call or respond to an email.

With how often he answered the chimes of his phone and how long it took for him to finally put it down, you figured he must've prepared a lot for the week and it made you feel more guilty every time he did it.

Today, he brought you both to an indoor park he rented for an hour for a picnic. It was on the outskirts of Seoul and he also cooked most of the food placed between you both, his mother however, was responsible for the side dishes.

Speaking of mothers, yours called earlier to congratulate you on whatever it was she was adamant on keeping secret but you already knew what it was and you were glad Jungkook’s mother gave birth on such a perfect day almost 21 years ago.

Guwon was planning to propose to you during the trip.

It left a bitter taste in your tongue. Sure you had expected to be married to him at some point but you barely knew the man outside of his colorful stories, and knew none of his actual behavior in his home. You haven't even visited his house yet for a vibe check so why is he rushing too fast?

Despite the guilt in your heart, relief is more palpable knowing you'd have more time to figure out if you truly want Guwon in your life.

Your phone vibrated in your pocket and you took a glance at it.

           [17:29] Jinnie: I'll pick you up at your apartment by 6.            [17:29] Jinnie: please be prepared😊

Seeing the t̶h̶r̶e̶a̶t̶e̶n̶i̶n̶g̶ friendly smile attached at the end of his message, you're suddenly reminded of the present. You hadn't told any of them of your date today, something that had drawn out longer than you thought it would. You frowned, fingers drumming on the side of your phone as you pondered on what to reply.

You had promised to help with the food yet here you are, out of town and on a picnic date inside a garden observatory.

“Who is it?” Guwon asks, seeing the frown on your face. Your mind immediately picks up the odd tone he has.

“Their oldest, Jin. We're supposed to cook together before the rest comes home.”

He furrowed his eyebrows. “I thought the birthday was tomorrow?”

“Oh, we're planning a small party before it, just his closest friends.”

Guwon nodded, eyes distant and thoughtful as he took a bite of his sandwich before continuing. “What time are you expected?”

“Their eldest said he'll pick me up at six.”

He looked at his watch and frowned deeper. “It's already 5:30. Maybe I can drive you to their dorm instead?”

You immediately shook your head. Remembering the promise you had with Jin and Jungkook. The maknae had recently begun to look at your direction again yesterday after Hoseok had talked to him, inviting Guwon would ruin the smallest progress you’ve had. 

Not to mention, you can't reveal their dorm location even if he is to be your husband. Company rules and you've signed an NDA.

“Company rules, can't reveal their location.”

“If we're going to be a couple soon, I'm going to need to know more about these guys you're hanging around. I don't trust them.” He says as he turns to the picnic basket to take another sandwich out, unable to see the twitch in your eye. 

“Well, you have to learn how to, they’re my bosses and my best friends.”

“I’m having a hard time believing that. I mean,” He scoffed. “Did you notice how they look at me whenever I’m around? That rapper—Yun–Yoonmi stared at me like I’m an insect he stepped on.”

Anger boils deep within your soul and you’re sure it's visibly contorting your face at this point but the man didn’t notice it and continued chewing on his food.

“Besides, their location is pretty well known already, no? Just a couple searches away, why be so secretive about it?”

You refrain yourself from frowning and it takes all of the energy within you to not react as wildly as you would’ve. It was amazing how the illusion of something good could shatter with only a few words and you set down the sandwich in your hand.

There's something terribly humbling upon realization that the man you're talking to is indeed, a man.

Noticing the shift in the air, he set down his cup of coffee with a slight raise to his brows.

“Why are you looking at me like that? It's true though, I just think it's pointless to try to hide it when some people already know, so what's the use of trying to hide their dorm?”

Where's Jimin and Taehyung at times like this?

You dreaded the conversation you're about to bring up to your mother once she calls, and could hear her scolding you for having such high standards. Guwon being indifferent to the possibility of being stalked, and your boys’ privacy being breached immediately raise red glaring flags over his head.

A lawyer himself who shrugged at the threat of crimes, the joke just writes itself.

“Don't look at me like that, I'm just… trying to understand why you didn't want me to interact with them after our second date. It makes a man overthink, know?”

Whatever thread you were holding onto, a sliver of hope that you might've misheard or misunderstood him, decayed within you and you picked up your phone to stuff into your bag.

You had hoped, wished, that after your deep talk on the night Seokjin had scolded your ass to the nines he'd understand your dynamic better with the boys or at least try. You could already hear Yoongi's drawl out ‘I told you so’ as you packed up, even imagine him bringing up Namjoon’s statistical analysis and how I should've listened to it.

“If you're implying what I think you are implying then I don't think we should meet each other anymore.”

Tossing the food back into the basket carelessly, you slung your bag over your shoulder and stand, only for his hand to shoot out to grab your wrist in an iron grip.

“Wait, I-I'm sorry! I just got… jealous, that's all.”

Even with the apologetic look displayed clearly on his face and the fear swimming with them, nothing could bring back to life the trust you had on the man and you pushed his hand away.

“I can't stay with someone who can't understand why those boys are important to me, sorry Guwon but we're over. Don't you ever contact me again.”

“You can't possibly be breaking up with me because I said what I felt? Over them? Really?!”

You don't even recognize the man sitting opposite you.

He knew, he saw how close you are with them and even sat through the stories you told him during your dates. Guwon knew you cherished every single boy in the group yet he disregarded it all because of jealousy? If that isn't a warning, then you might be blind.

“It's like I never even knew you at all.”

He scoffed. “Same with you. Can't believe I actually believed your words telling me you were friends but I saw how those boys treated you!”

Sure your relationship with your bosses is unusual but it was built from hardship and loneliness from being taken away from home and surrendering their time for a glimpse of fame in a field where they're at a huge disadvantage. It was special in ways not many could fathom because in their head, what reason would there be for a man to befriend a girl other than having the intention to fuck them?

It was the mindset of the old and “ wise” and it had infuriated you to the nines.

For him to reveal himself as one of those old cogs when he expressed himself as a gentleman and be convinced by his act of kindness, even the word disappointing could express how greatly upset you are.

“Bet you've slept with all of them at least once, hell, I don't even know why your mother bothered when you're already busy whoring yourself for seven men.”

Anger flooded your veins, it was hot and rampaging under your skin. Before your mind could even register your actions, your hand had already moved, making contact with his cheek in one swift motion. The slap echoed like a clap of thunder in the silence of the observatory.

Even after seeing the angry red mark beginning to mar his skin, your anger remained.

“Goodbye Guwon, I hope we never see each other again.”

Walking away was easier said than done.

You got picked up by Guwon earlier and since you've run far enough from the indoor garden, away from your supposed ticket back home, you're now waiting for an uber at a small library sequestered between towering and loudly designed buildings. You had half a mind to ask your friends that lived nearby for a ride but decided against it.

They might be busy with their own family. 

Unlike you.

As you sit there waiting for your ride to come, your mind takes you to your mother and her genuine glee at the thought of you getting married. Ever since your second date, she had been sending you photographs of weddings for inspirations, links to event places and tailors, and flower shops where you could have your bouquet arranged. She was beyond ecstatic, if she heard what had happened, she would be devastated. 

A loud, exasperated sigh left your lips, the volume catching the attention of the bookkeeper who was quick to shush you.

As you waited longer with only the deafening silence of the library to accompany you, doubt began to form at the back of your head. 

Was breaking up with Guwon really the right choice? 

An angry, louder voice screamed at you for doubling down on your decision. You knew your boys longer than you knew him, if the trip had gone through, Guwon would've proposed to you despite the short time you've known each other. Something you didn't want. Not to mention, he would've gone through the idea while contemplating on your loyalty.

So yes, it was the right decision!

But you were to be married .

Your mother was so happy to have finally matched you with a guy you attended three dates with. The thought made your heart clench, she was excited to see you on the altar and has most likely spread it around your town with pride. She was about to have three married children.

Gods, you don't want to imagine the conversation later on, she'd be distraught.

Your phone buzzed and you dreaded looking at the screen to see your mother's name. Luckily, it was Jin instead.

           [18:01] Jinnie: where are you?            [18:01] Jinnie: knocked on your door but the neighbor said you were out.            [18:02] Jinnie: you're late😒            [18:02] Jinnie: I'm going to have them deduct your pay this month for making me wait            [18:03] You: I'm sorry your highness for disappointing you, please forgive this servant of yours🤧            [18:03] You: was on a date            [18:03] You: not that it matters anymore, I broke up with Guwon            [18:04] You: does it even count? I mean, we weren't official, he didn't ask me to be his girlfriend yet.

You paused, face souring as you realized what you've just typed. 

Guwon hadn't asked for your hand officially even after three dates, he had the chance on your second date during the stroll but he didn't. Despite this, he went and asked your parents for their blessings when he hadn't even asked you first.

           [18:04] You: wow I just remembered that            [18:04] You: then he had the audacity to propose to me!

There's a pause in between his usually instant replies and you had an inkling he's already spreading the gossip around the group somehow.

           [18:08] Jinnie: wow there's a LOT to unpack there            [18:08] Jinnie: but worry not            [18:08] Jinnie: I'll have Jimin get us the strongest drink there is for later            [18:09] Jinnie: we'll drink that sorrow away and you're going to tell me what the hell you meant by proposing while not being official             [18:10] You: I don't think I should tell you that…            [18:10] You: considering… ya know            [18:11] You: also don't you guys have an early schedule tomorrow?🤨            [18:12] Jinnie: bold of u to assume I don't want hear how massive of a failure he is            [18:12] Jinnie: nothing better than hearing your enemy’s downfall😌            [18:13] Jinnie: also what do you mean ‘you guys’???             [18:13] Jinnie: you're literally our make-up artist!

You scoffed at the message but before you could type up a reply, the notification from your uber app popped out to inform you about your driver now waiting outside the library and you walked out.

           [18:23] You: and just because I'm your make-up artist, doesn't mean I should let you all get away with this            [18:23] You: and I won't even drink much :pp            [18:24] Jinnie : if I ever see you stumbling around the house, you owe me 100000            [18:25] You: WOW            [18:25] You: AREN'T YOU RICH ALREADY????            [18:25] Jinnie: money is money😌            [18:26] Jinnie: just get ur ass over here already before I add more zeros to the bet

The smell of Jin’s cooking, both spicy and something savory, welcomed you first before the sound of sizzles did. At the sound of the door closing, Jin appears round the corner with an apron hung from his neck and a tong stained with red bean paste in the other.

Despite the disappointed look he's going for, reminiscent of a mother who caught her daughter coming home past curfew, the relief you feel upon seeing his handsome face after earlier was palpable and the knots in your stomach loosened.

“I should have your pay deducted for showing up late.”

You winced. “Sorry boss, can I appeal for a heartbreak discount on that?”

“Only if you give me a hug and cry on my shoulder.” 

He opened his arms wide, plush lips widening into a smile when you approached to wrap your arms around his torso. The fabric of his sweatshirt was soft and the scent of new laundry overtook his usual scent of freshly baked cakes and gentle vanilla perfume, it almost made you boneless in his hold. Moreso when he started stroking your head while the other ran up and down your back with his palm, fingers still wrapped around the tongs.

He didn't pull away despite the awkward position with him bending down and practically melting against your smaller form. In your years of being friends, you could never recall Seokjin being the first to pull away from a hug and once more, you're grateful for that.

“You wanna talk about it?”

“I’ll do it while cooking, we might burn whatever you're cooking if I told you all about it here.”

He shook his head, his rubbing motions on your back turning into gentle pats. “We can just order it online if it does, I even bet that they'll still eat it even if it was. Hoba was relentless today.”

His nails raked through your scalp and you resisted the urge to shiver. 

“He was being an ass towards you guys. Then when I defended you all, he accused me of sleeping around.”

His first instinct was to curse the man down to his ancestors who bred with each other until he was born, but stopped himself when he realized what he's about to say and cleared his throat.

If his arms coiled tighter around you, you only leaned into him further.

“Normally I would say "I told you so" but I know Yoongi has it covered later. So I'll just say—"

"Don't you dare. Jin don’t you dare finish that sentence."

"I knew it."

He let out a cry when your hand slapped his arm but it quickly dissolved into a fit of squeaky laughter and he pushed your head back under his chin before you could even continue hitting him. Hand continuing their petting as you let out an annoyed groan.

“My mom was so excited! God. I hate that bastard for disappointing me and her. She was sending me links to wedding planners and dressmakers because apparently he was supposed to take me to Jeju tomorrow and propose.”

He stills in your arms, the hand in your hair stopping its motion as his breath hitched in his chest. It took him a moment before he recollected himself and continued to pat your head, pressing a kiss on top of your crown.

“I'm sure auntie will understand, I know that she would've wanted you to find a good man like she and your sister did.”

A voice at the back of your head told you he was referring to himself but you threw the thought away as soon as it went.

“Personally, I would've taken the ticket and ditch him.” He laughed and you hit his arm with a barely concealed grin. “All I'm saying is that free things should be used and if it's gifted then better! You get to decide how to use it so refund it!”

“I don't think it's that easy.”

“Just say Kim Seokjin of BTS asked for a refund and they'll immediately accept it.”

Pulling away, you playfully rolled your eyes at him, earning you one last laugh as you walked to the kitchen where the sizzles of the food being fried on the pan had long been muted. Jin followed you with an onslaught of words spilling from his lips, justifying and detailing how he would've done in your place as you placed your bag down on the island counter before reaching for the spare apron.

Hearing his rants filling the silence made it easier to relax, made forgetting how upset you were at Guwon a walk in the park.

It was familiar and his voice, despite his fiery indignation, was oddly comforting.

Soon enough, your conversation halts and you both position yourself over the counter, following his orders mindlessly; which is mostly dicing the vegetables and the slabs of meat he marinated last night in soy sauce and spices. 

You found the repetitive motions of chopping soothing and silently thanked the man now hovering over the saucepan, gently stirring the seaweed soup. 

As if sensing your eyes boring holes on the back of his head, his ears reddened and he looked over his shoulder to meet your gaze.

“W-what is it? Wh-why are you looking at me like that?”

“Just admiring how huge your shoulders are and how reliable you are.” 

You recalled how dearly he cared for his group despite the exhaustion from practicing singing and dancing the whole day. Despite being the youngest in his family, Jin took on the mantle of the oldest brother in the group easily and selflessly provided for his members alongside Yoongi and Namjoon. If it were anybody, you were sure the boys would've been sick or had long given up, especially when the company was about to file bankruptcy in their earlier years.

From the bone shattering dances, exhausting practices and routines stretching from dawn till dusk, you were thankful Seokjin was there to catch the others when they fall.

It was a hard task nobody would've assumed since selfishness is a built-in trait of a human yet Seokjin proved you wrong when he stayed up every night despite the muscle cramps and exhaustion weighing his bones to cook for his members, taking the role of the eldest like it was a second nature despite being the youngest in his family.

He barked out a half-hearted laugh as his red ears brightened from the compliment. “I already know that of course!”

“Thank you for everything, Jin.”

His face crumpled when he laughed bashfully, the bright hue in his ears crawling to dusk his cheeks as well. It didn't take long before he recovered and like clockwork, in reaction to being flustered by compliments, he got defensive and raised the saucer threateningly at you.

“Ya! If you're planning to compliment me, at least be original! I'm done hearing about how wide my shoulders are from ARMY and how reliant I am from the others! We've been together for years, do better and be original with your compliments!”

It was a joke, obviously.

But staring at the older man childishly brandishing his cooking utensil like a bludgeoning weapon, you couldn't help but ponder about what truly pulled you into him only to realize that you've never truly dove deeper than surface level details. It was disappointing to find out how shallow you've been when expressing your appreciation for the man.

Like he said, you've always pointed out how reliable he is but never have you pointed out the small things such as the warm food he claimed have been extras and the hot soups sectioned off for you on cold days.

He was the first to approach you on the first day despite being the member who mostly kept to himself, asking you if you wanted to celebrate their Rookie of the Year win with them instead of the rowdy staff behind you. 

The first one to build a bridge leading to this deep companionship you had with the rest of the members, have you really never thanked him for that?

“You're so caring and humble despite your background and where you are right now. If it was anybody else, they would've left the boys to fend for themselves once they were able to yet you didn't stop cooking for them, for us. I don't think I have ever met a man so down to earth and as loving as you are,” You paused. “Well, except Jimin but if you want something more original I'd say I love your hands even when you think they're weird because they—”

You didn't even realize Jin crossed the distance between you both until his hands clasped around your lips, silencing you completely.

Unlike earlier with only his ears blushing, his cheeks now glowed red, the flushed skin spreading down to his neck, continuing past the collar of his dark blue pajamas. When your eyes meet, you find his glistening with unshed tears no doubt touched by your hastily put together declaration of your appreciation for him. 

When it was clear you wouldn't continue your rant, his arms fell to your shoulders and pulled you into a tight embrace. 

His violent heartbeats thudding against his chest was the first thing you've heard before you registered the stuttered exhales and his gentle saccharine scent filling your senses, clouding your brain completely. For a moment, it was just you and him in the kitchen, hugging a little longer than friends should be.

But then again, since when have you guys ever drawn the line on how platonic touches should last?

“God… You gotta stop doing that.”

“I'm just following what you told me like a good dongsaeng and I think I did exceedingly well on it. Does that guarantee a deduction on my pay deduction?”

There's an odd, invisible weight that lifted off of you, something you didn't even realize you were carrying. But there's also a tinge of guilt pinching the edges of your heart.

Jin was the first to approach you, and the first to confess four years ago. He was all shy looks and sweet smiles, his sweet words accompanied by a bouquet of flowers that must've cost him more than he could've gotten from being an idol of a new group. 

When Jin loves, he gives his all and doesn't think twice to give half of himself as well. In a way, he and Yoongi were alike, just with different approaches.

He was open and unapologetic while Yoongi was subtle and often silent.

His laugh twinkled in your ears but it dwindled later on, as if he remembered something towards the end of his mirth. “You're driving me crazy, how am I supposed to move on when you're this lovely?”

Hearing him confirm your suspicion about his crush—is it even called that at this point?—relieved you from an unknown anxiety most likely sparked by Jungkook's words a few nights ago. Why are you even relieved hearing him still liking you when all you've done is hurt him?

“You're such an idiot, you know that?”

“Love makes you do the stupidest thing but I don't think I've ever regretted ever falling for you.”

He pulls away, a gentler, softer smile now tugging his lips up.

“God, you made me sappy! My god, my soup!” 

Even without the warmth of his embrace, you could feel it radiate in the small space of the kitchen. You continued your work as Jin fuzzed about the seaweed soup behind you, bathing in the domesticity of it all.

Your phone vibrates loudly in your bag on the island counter. Wiping your hand on your apron, you opened it to see Jimin’s messages.

           [18:56] Mimi: seokjin hyung told me to buy the strongest alcohol             [18:57] Mimi: any idea why he’s being weird?            [18:57] You: I’ll tell jin that you called him weird            [18:57] You: but yes            [18:57] You: I’ll tell you all later why            [18:58] Mimi: 🤨            [18:58] Mimi: not if I get you drunk in the first ten minutes            [18:58] You: I’d like to see you try, pretty boy

Your phone vibrated again. Namjoon had texted you, seeing the preview you rolled your eyes.

            [18:59] Joonie: Seokjin hyung didn’t say but I already figured it out             [18:59] Joonie: You'd hear enough from Yoongi hyung later but            [18:58] Joonie: I told you so            [18:58] You: I hope you trip and fall on shit🥰            [18:59] Joonie: Love you too, noona😁            [18:59] You: blocked🚫

“I'm not seeing enough chopping, young lady. Get back to your station!” Jin jokingly scolds. With a laugh, you return to your spot.

By the time some of the boys arrived—except Jimin, Jungkook and Taehyung, no doubt pre-gaming somewhere—it was already ten and some of the dishes were plated, ready to be eaten in the dining room. If it wasn't for both your and Jin's advanced thinking to ready the bowl of rice and their plates beforehand, they would have starved to death as Yoongi dramatically puts it before blaming Hoseok for draining them out the whole day.

The man in question just laughed in response before shrugging and rebuking their ‘accusations’, saying it wasn't even that hard. To this, Yoongi grumbled under his breath and Namjoon rolled his eyes.

A few minutes later, the maknaes entered, cheeks all flushed except for Jimin who was holding up a bag full of canned alcohol as if it was game from an all-day hunt.

You thanked Jimin silently for drinking the birthday boy tipsy enough to make the dinner energetic instead of the awkwardness you thought it'd be due to what happened a few days ago. There's fleeting eyes you've caught in between jokes he made, either pouring with adoration or longing, you tried to not to pay it much mind.

But of course, the alcohol pouring could only go for so long before you're all lounging in the living room to talk about anything that comes to mind. It was half an hour short from the clock tickling to twelve, signifying Jungkook's actual birthday.

The conversation started off tame with Taehyung questioning the animals who sleep standing to something more elaborate with Yoongi asking everyone's opinion about some decrypt conspiracy theory surrounding the rich of the west. It was all fun and games when Taehyung, lost in his own mind running with the most random thought, sluggishly pointed at you and asked:

“Wh-why aren't you checking your phone? G-Guwon hyung haven't been texting you yet?”

Many heads turned to you who was practically boneless in between a tipsy Hoseok and a still sober Yoongi. You didn't even need to look to know the look of concern Jin was throwing your way.

But everything was hazy, your head throbbing from the alcohol. The words slipped past your lips before you could think about it.

“We parted ways… He accused me of sleeping around when I said I didn't want to go on a trip with him tomorrow ‘cause I didn't want to skip Jungkookie's birthday.”

Hoseok patted your shoulder and Yoongi nodded, face indifferent as usual. Despite the reaction of the boys on both sides, not everyone in the circle held the same opinion it seems.

“You didn't have to decline it, noona. You-you’ve been with us for years, missing one wouldn't hurt me much.”

Jungkook's voice was softer as if he had sobered up from the revelation and you waved him away.

“What are you saying? I couldn't leave when we weren't alright.” You glimpsed at Jin before continuing. “Besides, he was planning to propose and I'm glad he couldn't anymore.”

In your drunken mind, the information didn't carry much weight but the pin drop silence following your words did, you guessed that it must've been. However, it didn't last long when Taehyung jumped up to his feet and punched the air as if Korea just scored the final score in FIFA.

The boys look at him with wide eyes, shocked by his reaction. Jimin recovers and tries to tug him down but a drunk Taehyung is determined, with a will stronger than a monk's resilience and patience, no one could stop him from doing what he wanted.

And that was bumping his glass on your forehead, a little harder than it should've been if he was sober and you reel back, a hand over your forehead.

“Noona! you're free again! Do you know what that means?!”

“Ok that's enough for you tonight. Let's get you to bed.” Jimin says, chuckling awkwardly as he stands behind his best friend, wrapping his arms around his waist before dragging him away.

“Why? Can't I just congratulate noona from recognizing something was off instead of ignoring it like most do? Noona,” He turned to you, bottom lip jutted out. “It's not bad that I'm celebrating right?”

Seokjin’s laugh was nervous when he rose to usher the man away as well. “Alright, lets all calm down so we don't accidentally say something while drunk.”

“Fuck yeah! I-I don’t even know why I even believed his lies, he’s a lawyer for fucks sake!”

“Not that it ever stopped you before. I still don't understand why you couldn't have married one of us instead.” Jungkook cuts in, suddenly irritated.

Somehow, the tension in the room grew tenfold and everyone sits up, alert and ready to interfere if their youngest decides to let the alcohol take control of him. Your brain clears once it registered the annoyance in his voice, heart dropping to the soles of your feet.

“Jungkook—”

“I just think it's a bullshit excuse and you know it. You told that to Jin-hyung four years ago and have repeated it ever since. We’re all adults now, we can handle a little rejection and who’s to say we can’t date when we’re the only idol running the company. You say it's because you don’t want to choose but aren’t you just instilling false hope in us?” 

He stood as he grew more agitated but Jin pushed him down, eyes stern as he stared down at their youngest. Seeing the conflict brew between them, the growing guilt built by years of spending time with them reawakened.

It tied your stomach in a knot and felt like a building had dropped onto your heart.

As if sensing your emotions, Yoongi’s hand found your shoulder to give it a squeeze.

“You’re not thinking straight so stop it,” Jin excuses as he turns to you with an apologetic smile. “He’s just drunk, he doesn’t—”

“I know what I’m saying and I think you’re being too biased here hyung!”

“Jungkook…” Hoseok calls from next to you, voice low, a warning.

“You too! She’s also your friend, why aren’t you pointing out how she’s just playing with us? Why are you only calling me out?”

“Because you’re being a stupid drunk right now, Jungkook. Stand down .” Yoongi ordered, voice firm and warning. His arms are crossed as he stared their youngest down but the maknae wasn’t intimidated by it, if anything, the fire in the older man’s eyes only fueled the anger boiling within him.

In years you’ve watched over them, never once has Yoongi scolded their youngest past Run BTS contents, leaving the reprimanding to their oldest and leader. For him to call him out and seeing them grow agitated by each other’s presence, dread loomed over you with your nightmares threatening to come true. 

This isn’t how tonight’s party was supposed to go.

“Isn’t there anyone who’d agree with me at how absurd all of this is?!” His head snapped at Namjoon who’s watching with a careful eye. “Hyung, surely you can also see it!”

Throughout the exchange, Namjoon had sat back and watched the interaction from the sidelines instead of interfering on the first hint of a fight breaking out. Even when the situation becomes a little aggressive, he stays silent but you don’t doubt that he’d be the first to stand if the disagreement becomes volatile and inching towards physical.

That's what he always has done, observed and let the high rise of emotions eventually tides down to a calm on their own. He's a leader, he's supposed to be fair and to do so, he must first understand both sides before taking action. He also trusts his own team to temper their own ire after years of being together.

But now that he's forced to join the argument, he sighed and stood. Seokjin stepped away as he approached their youngest with both hands placed on his shoulders to sit him back down. 

Obediently, Jungkook follows.

“While I do see where you’re coming from, I think it's a bit unfair that you’re blaming her for being scared.” Jungkook opens his mouth but a firm shake of Namjoon’s head shuts him up. “Don’t start again. There’s a power imbalance here kid. If her choosing someone could cause a problem, we’d get off scot free but not her. In the eyes of the company, she’s disposable—”

“But she’s not.”

“She is. In their eyes at least. By having her around causing problems for us, she’s nothing but a thorn in their side that they should remove. If she had dated one of us and eventually broke up, it would cause an awkwardness and riff between guys especially if it ended on a bad note and BigHit won't stand for it. You know how important this job is for her, right?”

They stared at each other for a long while, both unrelenting in silence. You all waited with bated breath, Namjoon was the only one who could diffuse the situation and if he fails, then who else could possibly calm the maknae down?

Turning to the clock, you bit your lip at the time.

It was nearing Jungkook's actual birthday, three minutes short before both hands ticked to twelve.

Which meant it would have to start during the denouement of an argument. The thought planting discomfort in your stomach. Such a happy celebration shouldn't be welcomed like this.

In the midst of raised voices and pointing fingers, Taehyung has completely sobered up from where he sat between Jimin’s thighs, staring beady eyed at the situation in his friend’s arms. Sensing your gaze, he turned to you with a sheepish, apologetic smile when Jungkook's heavy sigh broke through the silence.

His head fell to his chest as Namjoon removed his hands from his shoulders yet his eyes remained on their youngest’s hunched form.

“You get what we're trying to say now, do you?”

“Y-yeah…”

“Anything you want to say, gguk?” Namjoon was talking to him like he was a kindergarten teacher and you both were kids who fought on the sandbox for the shovel, warm and understanding but the disappointment in his tone is clear as day.

Jungkook doesn't reply but he shoots up to his feet, surprising Hoseok next to you, with eyes still trained on the floor.

When he did look up to meet your gaze, it was brief and cut off by a deep bow. You reached your hands out, trying to stop him from doing so but Yoongi took one of your hands and pinned them down between his and your thighs.

Jungkook never had to bow for you and it felt wrong seeing him bent down to apologize.

“I-I’m sorry noona, I—” He trails off.

In his speechlessness in a room full of people who—while understanding where he comes from—stood behind you, he clams up and then in a flash, he’s gone, bolting from the living room and skipping up the stairs. The sound of his heavy footfalls echoing like the clock ticking down to his birthday.

The argument has been dissolved, yet it left a bitter taste on your tongue, it made you feel queasy having everyone back you up without reprimanding you as well. It was true, what Jungkook said. 

Weren't you practically leading them on by not choosing anyone? No matter how unintentional it must be, if he thinks that way then maybe everyone else in the group does, just silently.

You turned to the clock again. A minute closer to the next day.

Frustration made you want to pull your hair out but the long, lithe fingers that have entangled with yours in the middle of it all, forbade you from doing so. As if he could hear the internal debate between logic and emotions, Yoongi gave you a comforting squeeze.

But it didn't feel right, you shouldn't be sitting on your ass while Jungkook blamed himself for expressing his own opinion, sure it was a bit aggressive but you understood his frustration.

“Jungkook!” You called out, rising to your feet to follow him when Yoongi tightened his hold on your wrist and shook his head.

“He needs time to process, leave him be.”

Yet despite this, you shrugged his hold off and followed the youngest’s heavy footfalls upstairs and presumably into his room. You caught onto him in the hallway, with the door to his room opened and half of his body already inside.

“Jungkook, let us talk.”

“I-I don't want to see you right now, noona please.”

The desperation to correct the wrongs gives you a short burst of energy and you catch his wrist.

“Jungkook please, I—”

You heard the joyful chime of the clock downstairs before you heard the sweet jingles of bells.

Then you felt it.

Electric jolts shoot up from your connected hands, waking every cell and your mind awake and you almost keel over from the wave of relieving warmth washing over your body. There’s now a low hum accompanying the bells chiming in the background, the soft harmony between them sending shivers down your spine. 

You've thought of first meetings like those scenes in Hollywood movies where a kaleidoscope of colors explodes behind your eyelids, like fireworks celebrating the precious moment where the protagonists finally meet and fireworks shoot up to the sky. They talked of a brief moment of reprieve from reality, the world slowing down and feeling the most calmed you've ever been with your soulmate in hand.

Like your soul finally recognizing its pair and suddenly, everyone became a blur in the background.

Yet when you stared back at Jungkook's mirrored astonishment, your stomach bottomed out.

Because no way in hell, after all this time, you're soulmates.

[i-literally-cant-with-this]

Hi bb, just a thirst idea for you: Study fucking. Your fave has trouble being "smart" but he is a genius when it comes to pounding that ass after he gets too frustrated during a study session.

Oh, Vi, my sweet. I know you sent this a while ago. But when I read it, my heart wasn't the only thing to clench up 😈! Thank you so much for sending this to me. It was so fun to write!!

A/N ::: Nerd/Bad Boy!Keisuke Baji x F.reader, reader doesn't know he's in Toman until later (or at all, idk), he is NOT playing stupid, math is just really fucking hard!

C/W ::: Mutual pining that's super on the DL, unprotected P->V, Baji surprising us ... so nothing out of the ordinary.

WC ::: Just over 2k.

"Why though?!" Baji yelled a little louder than you thought he needed to. But it was clear he was getting more and more pissed about this. "Why the FUCK does it have to equal the fucking same area as this fucking pellaroraglam?"

You bit the insides of your cheeks and your tongue to keep from laughing at him about his pronunciation of the word 'parallelogram'. "Because that's how the Greeks intended it. Ok? Let's take a 10 minute break and come back to this again, yeah? You're not an idiot, Kei. I think you've just been staring at the book for so long that things are starting to make less and less sense. Does that make sense?" You reached over and took his glasses from his face and brushed your finger up and down the bridge of his nose. "Do you want to go for a walk or get something from the kitchen? Maybe to eat or drink? Make this 10 count because when we get back, we're hittin' it hard again, ok?"

Something about your wording made his cock twitch. But he shoved that thought down almost as quickly as it bubbled up into the forefront of his overworked brain.

"Hittin' it hard again, hah? You're mean, y/n. You're a bully. A learning bully. You're not gonna give in until I understand this shit, are ya?" He stood up from your desk and he gestured for you to follow him to your kitchen.

Your apartment was nothing special. But how you made the space your own was something that Baji always found so sweet and comforting. Of course, he'd never admit that to you. He is, after all, the first division Captain of Toman. Captains don't find things 'sweet.' They find them masculine and bloody. That's what everyone from the outside looking in thought, anyway. Though, no matter how hard he tried to ignore the pull you and your apartment had on him, he always found himself wishing he was back here, with you, in this little bubble of mild contentment you'd created.

He was relaxed when he was with you. Save for right now. But you were trying to help him study for his midterm. Any other time he's been here, he always felt safe. Maybe even small, for lack of a better descriptor, when he is anything but 'small' in any sense of the word.

"You really do have a mean streak in you, you know that?" He teased as you both walked into your kitchen. "But you're right. I need a break from that book. My eyes are crossing and it's starting to give me a headache."

"Do you want a couple of tylenol? I think I have ibuprofen, too. Anything I can do to help you with this, Keisuke. It's my job, after all. Use me however you need to to get this through that stubborn head of yours." You smiled so cute at him that he had a difficult time not telling you what he really wanted to use you for.

"Maybe I'll take you up on that. But first, can I ask you something kinda weird?" He sat down on one of the bar stools at the counter and you followed suit, sitting next to him.

"Of course! Anything, Kei." You rubbed your fingers up and down your forearm, a nervous habit. Even still, you assumed it was a question about the math you were helping him study. "What's up?"

"So, like, I know you're not into me in that way. Right? And that's fine. You've made that very clear. But, like, if you were...into me, I mean, into someone … hypothetically, I mean, what kind of person do you think you would be into? Like, are you more into the nerdy type, or the bad boy type, or, like, the artsy type?"

You didn't really understand where this was going. But you decided to humor him. "Well, I guess I've always been pretty attracted to the bad boy type. But that doesn't mean I wouldn't go for someone who was nerdy, too. It all depends on the person, you know? I have to like them first and foremost. Like, just because I see some bad boy doing bad boy stuff doesn't mean I'll fall to my knees and s-"

Baji choked on his tea, spitting it all over you in the process of trying to control the amount of liquid that was coming out of his mouth.

"Oh fuck! I'm so sorry, y/n! Gahhhd damn it. I am so sorry!" He grabbed the roll of paper towels from the counter by the sink and tore some off to frantically wipe your chest.

"K-Kei! Oh my god! Stop! It's ok! I'm at home, I can easily change my shirt. Don't worry about ... about it. You yell so much. Geez."

You hopped off of the stool and went back to your bedroom to find a shirt to change into. As you did so, Baji felt his stomach turn. He knew he shouldn't have asked you that. It was stupid and immature. But he couldn't help it. He'd had a crush on you for so long that he just needed to know if he had a chance in hell with you or not. But, as he'd guessed, you weren't interested in him that way.

He waited for you to come back to the kitchen before apologizing again. "I really am sorry, y/n. I don't know what came over me. I was just, I dunno, asking for a friend. And then you started to say that if you saw someone doing something that you’d fall to your knees and …" He waved his hand in the air as if to clear what he was going to say away before it’d even had a chance to see the light of day. “And I choked and blew my tea all over you.”

You giggled and shook your head, smiling at him. "It's ok, Kei. You're a little clumsy, but you're still really sweet. I like hanging out - I mean, you know. Helping you study. I enjoy your company, regardless of what we're doing."

"Y/n? I really wanna kih-" He blushed and looked away from you before he thought you saw his face turn a pretty shade of pink.

"You what, Kei?" You leaned around him a little to get his attention. "What do you want, Baji? You can tell me. We're friends."

FRIENDS 

"Oh, y-yeah. Of course we're ... friends. Yeah. Well, let's get back to the math, then. C'mon." His heart, smile and morale sank as he headed back to your room with you.

Meanwhile, you were left to wonder what he was going to say. What did he want to 'kih'? Kiss? Oh, no. It couldn't be that. Right? Maybe he just wanted to kick your butt for making fun of his pronunciation earlier ... even though your face was the only thing giving away the fact you were getting quite a bit of entertainment from that. He wouldn't have noticed that. Right?

You followed him back to your bedroom and decided to keep quiet about the whole thing. You couldn't imagine that he would want to kiss you. You were just his tutor. And he was so cool. He had cool friends, girls practically fell at his feet when he walked by them. He couldn't possibly have feelings for you, right?

Oh, but he did. He really did. He was mad for you. He wanted nothing more than to pull you into his lap and kiss you senseless. But that couldn't happen. He couldn't ruin the time you spent together. It was precious to him, even though he knew you saw it as nothing more than a job.

The next hour of your time together was spent studying right from the book. There was no talking, no joking, just Baji finally getting to work. It was a welcome change for you. It meant you could focus on your task at hand and not worry about him trying to distract you with his unfinished sentences.

He was still so frustrated. But he was starting to make progress. He was starting to understand what you were trying to teach him. He just wished he could show you how he felt.

As you helped him work through the last of the 4 problems he had to do, he tried to come up with a way to say it. To tell you how he really felt. He was never good at words. Action was his strength. "I'm not sure about par-parallelograms? Is that how you say it? I'm so fucking sick of that long ass word. It's so stupid. Why couldn't they just say a special type of quadrilateral that has both pairs of opposite sides parallel and equal. That word is like 73 letters long. I hate it. It's so fucking annoying, y/n. Jesus."

You clapped and jumped a little where you stood, your tits bounced and his eyes went right to them. "Yes! Yes, Kei! Good! Good job!" You jumped into his arms and hugged him so tightly, burying your face in his neck, (accidentally) inhaling his scent. "I knew you could ..." you pulled your face back from him and looked into his brown eyes. "I knew you could do it ... Keisuke. Mmm ... Kei-suk-e. You ..." you breathed the words out heavily and found yourself staring at his full lips. That sly smile, his sharp teeth. Pain never looked so appealing. 

Your heart stopped in your chest when he threw the math book across the room and it slammed into your wall with a loud thud. Before you had time to process what was happening, his hands were in your hair and his lips were on yours.

You'd been so stupid for someone who taught other people things. So stupid to not see how he felt. And now, here he was, kissing you like he needed you to breathe. You reached up and pulled his long black hair back from his face and returned the kiss with just as much intensity.

"I'm sorry I didn't say anything, y/n. I didn't think you'd want me that way. I'm just a dumbass with no future. You're so smart and pretty and funny and ... and I just can't believe you're actually kissing me back right now."

You shook your head and smiled. "I'm sorry! I didn't realize what was happening, Kei. You're not as good at hiding your feelings as you think. You should have just said something, though. This whole time we've been studying everything together, we could have been ..."

"... fucking like rabbits?" He laughed, but his eyes were serious.

You reached down and unbuttoned his jeans. "You know, it's not nice to talk to your tutor like that. But Baji, you've made a lot of progress tonight. I think you deserve a reward."

He picked you up and laid you down on your bed. "Oh yeah? And what kind of reward do you think I deserve, y/n?"

You reached over to your bedside table and turned on your neon pink LED lights. "The best kind, Kei. You've earned it."

"Fuck, y/n. You are so hot. I can't wait to fuck you so hard you forget everything you've ever taught me. We’ll have to have some more lessons. Is that ok with you?"

You nodded as you pulled your shirt up and over your head. "That sounds like a wonderful idea. We can even work on your pronunciation. You're a bit of a mess with your consonants."

He kissed you again and smiled. "Y/n, oh my god, shut up ... you're the worst." He pulled his pants down and straddled you, his cock rock hard and ready for you. "But you're also the best. I can't wait to make you mine."

"Kei, you're already mine." You reached up and cupped his cheek, pulling him in for another kiss. "Now ... teach me something.” 

@darkstarlight82 @katshimizuu @kazutora-kurokawa @southside-otaku @arlerts-angel

[streetlightyeri]

false god ; boone

“i know heaven’s a thing, i go there when you touch me.”

[aka, boone is good at using a camera for more than just storm chasing]

w.c: 3444

warnings: 18+ MDNI. smut (oral, piv, breath play? in the lightest sense of the word, bandana used as gag).

notes: no beta, not even proofread lol i just needed to post this, i'll come back and edit at a later time. this is a piece from my wip about boone for my twisters/zach bryan song fic series (scott's is in progress as well a part two for "oklahoma smokeshow" for tyler). this was supposed to be fluff, slice of life moment, idk what happened <3 and as always, the fmc has a name but no descriptors bc i cannot personally write in 2nd person

-

She surprised him while they were on a chase. She was going to be in the state for no more than a few hours - when he headed out tomorrow she would be too. But she was able to get the information of where the crew was staying from Dani with the promise she would keep her mouth shut about it. Dani must’ve talked Tyler into letting them crash at a nicer place for the night because instead of a motel that Rowan was sure would give her hives, she pulled up to a very respectable 3 star chain hotel. She made a mental note to buy that girl whatever her heart desired.

Rowan pulled her hood closer around her neck and her hat farther down onto her head. She locked her vehicle behind her, keeping her head down as she walked to the side entrance Dani propped open for her. Once she made it in, she kicked the rock out the door jam and made her way to the elevator.

Rowan tried to calm her nerves as the elevator rose to the 4th floor. Her heartbeat picked up once the doors opened. She followed the signs to room 435. It was a corner room. Now Rowan was certain Dani had roped everyone into the plan; otherwise, a room like this would’ve been a coin toss or a game of pulling straws to see who got it. Her face burned at the thought.

But nevertheless, she knocked on the door. Boone’s voice came from the other side. “Yeah?” He was expecting someone from the team to respond, but heard nothing. He called out again. Rowan knocked in response.

She heard shuffling before the sound of the lock clicking. When the door swung open, she looked up, met with the sight of her boyfriend dressed in the same clothes he must’ve been wearing that day: jeans, a wifebeater, and a bandana tied around his neck. She could see his camo button down discarded on the end of the bed and his hat on the nightstand. A smile grew across her face as the moment started to click for him. He grabbed her wrist and dragged her into the room, double checking no one was lurking in the hallway before shutting the door. He turned the lock again and also flipped the deadbolt now that she was here.

When he turned back to her, he nearly tackled her onto the floor, throwing her hat to some corner of the room. But he managed to get his bearings before they lost their balance. His lips found hers; she could feel his smile as he kissed her. He walked them to the bed, keeping his hand behind her head to absorb the impact as her knees bent and her back hit the mattress.

He paused to pull back and look at her again, making sure she was real. “Hi, baby.”

She let out a giggle. “Hi, Boone.”

He leaned down and kissed her again, but stopped when her hand came up and pushed his shoulder back slightly. He knit his brows when she patted the bed next to herself but complied. She sat up to be eye level with him. He couldn’t believe she was here; his hands found her hips, sliding up her sweatshirt to rub circles on her soft skin. She wasn’t any better; she was trying to find her words but the way he was looking at her with his big doe eyes, like she was the best thing he’d ever seen, was making her brain short circuit. A haste kiss from him jump started her again.

“I have a . . . gift, of sorts, for you.”

He raised his eyebrows, “Is you being here not it?”

Rowan felt her cheeks heating up, her hands dropping from playing with the hair at the nape of his neck. She stood up and walked to her duffle bag she discarded blindly when he tackled her. She reached in and brought out the small box she wrapped in a haste and walked back over to him, leveling him with a serious gaze. “No one can know about this. Absolutely no one.”

“What is it, baby?”

“Promise me you will never show anyone this. Ever. No matter what.”

“I promise.”

She sat back down and handed him the box. He made quick work with the paper, his jaw dropping when he saw the picture on the side of the box: a camcorder. Nothing fancy, absolutely no bells and whistles. But Boone always had a thing for cameras. He’d started messing around with them back when he was enrolled in community college, fresh out of high school, still trying to figure out what the hell he wanted to do with his life. There was nothing more exciting to him than getting the perfect shot.

“You know how hesitant I’ve been about, uh,” she cleared her throat, “filming. But I thought about it. With something like this, there’s no cloud it gets uploaded to, no internet required. Nothing anyone can hack. It’s not the best quality, but it was the best I could find that I was comfortable with.”

He dropped the box on the bed next to him and grabbed her head in his hands; they were so large his fingertips met at the back. “Rowan, baby, please tell me you know I am fine with never recording us? I don’t want you to feel pressured. I let go of that fantasy a while ago. If you’re not comfortable with it, then it isn’t hot anymore.”

She nodded through his grip. “I know.”

He kissed her again, letting go of her with a whoop of excitement before he opened the tape on the box with his pocket knife. He pulled out the recorder and inserted the SD card, flipping open the screen, taking a sweep of the room. He played around with the settings, adjusting it for the room’s lighting. He was so confident in his knowledge of the camera. In seconds he got it looking more like 720p instead of the 480p she saw when using it in the store.

He flipped the screen so he could see himself as he recorded. He introduced himself to his imaginary audience while Rowan rested her head on his shoulder and wrapped her arms around his torso. He used his free hand to run a hand down her hair. He lowered the camera to capture her face for a second. “And this is my beautiful girlfriend.” He pressed a kiss to her temple. “She is the reason I have this camera. I think she’s embarrassed, but don’t worry, I’ll get her used to showing her face.”

She pulled back and hit his shoulder with a laugh while he winked at the camera. He flipped the screen and turned to film her, catching the perfect angle where the setting sun cut through the curtains to leave a beam running across her face. “She loves me so much she surprised me. Can’t believe she kept this a secret.”

“I was so close to spilling! You kept texting me about how much you missed me! And I had to lie that I wasn’t in Oklahoma. I even had Dani working with me to cover it up. I would send photos from the view outside my apartment that I’d been saving up for her to show you. I was scared you’d get suspicious when I kept refusing to FaceTime.”

He laughed from behind the camera. “You are a terrible liar.”

She faked a gasp, “Take that back!”

He smirked, “I think I can think of a way to make it up to you.”

She pulled her legs to her chest and looked straight at the lens of the camera, “Well then, why don’t you show me?”

He deposited the camera on the nightstand, throwing his hat elsewhere to make sure he had enough space to get the entire bed in the frame. One he was certain they’d be visible, he tore his shirt off and made quick work of hers. He lifted her bridal style to put her correctly on the bed. He untied his bandana and tied it around her neck; he liked seeing her wear it. He hovered over her on his arms, his hair and gold chain dangling into her face. She felt her face and chest flush. No matter how many times they found themselves like this, Rowan always felt like Boone was admiring her like a precious stone.

He shifted his weight and used his right hand to run his thumb over her red cheek. “God you’re so beautiful, baby.”

He undid her bra and he moved to sit on his haunches, admiring her from above. Her chest rose and fell as his brown eyes raked over her entire frame, leaving her skin burning in their wake. His calloused hands ghosted over her waist so lightly, her body jerked from the tickling sensation. His two index fingers ran under the waistband of her jean shorts; his eyes flickered up to her for permission. She kept her eyes stilled on him as she nodded. His eyes flickered over to the camera; he could see her side angle perfectly, surrounded by plush sheets while he hung over her.

“Is the camera okay?”

She nodded again, not looking at it.

“Need words, baby.”

She opened her mouth but hesitated. In seconds, he had the camera in his hand, about to snap the screen shut and stop the recording. Her hand reached up and wrapped around his wrist. “It’s okay, Boone.”

He shook his head. “No. You’re tense. We’re not doing it if you’re not 100% with it.”

She tightened her grip on his wrist when he tried to turn it off again. “I am. I promise. If you’re okay, I am. I’ll get used to it.”

He hesitated. He didn’t want her doing this for him.

“If I wasn’t comfortable with it, I wouldn’t have bought the camera.”

“You’re allowed to change your mind, no matter who bought the camera.”

She moved to intertwine her fingers with his, bringing his knuckles down to kiss them. “I’ll tell you if I change my mind.”

He pursed his lips, “Promise?”

She smiled up at him, “Promise.”

She helped him set up his perfect angle again before he rided her of her shorts and underwear. His hands ran up and down her side, taking count of every inch of skin. He rememorized every mole and freckle. His lips found hers again, making his way slowly down her neck, shoulder, the valley of her breasts while his finger twisted at her nipples. She felt him smirk against her skin when she gasped, hands reaching out to grip the sheets. He left bites on the smooth skin of her stomach, a place he was often drawn to. A place he could mark that no one would know.

When he made it between her thighs, he groaned. “There’s my girl.”

Rowan bit her bottom lip to stifle the sound that brought out of her.

Boone’s hands tightened on her hips; she could feel each finger digging into her skin. He pressed sloppy, wet kisses to the inside of her thighs. Her toes curled in anticipation, legs locking to try and prevent them from tightening around his head. Not that he would’ve cared. He had spent weeks warming her up to the idea of sitting on his face so he could finally feast like he wanted. She would never forget the way he locked his muscular arms around her thighs to keep her core connected with his mouth while he ate her out like his life depended on it, like he wasn’t destroying her for any other man ever. 

When he finally connected his mouth to her cunt, he moaned into her, making a shiver run up her entire body as her hands moved to grip his hair. Her fingers twisted in his locks, making him let out another satisfied noise. His tongue reached out to lap at her core, taking in the sweet release and relishing in the taste. One hand moved to splay across her stomach, lightly opening and closing to keep her down and to scratch at her skin comfortingly; the other moved to leave bruises of his finger prints on her thighs before one finger, then two, then three pushed themselves into her. Her rapid breaths and whines filled the room as her hips jerked from the way he ate. While his fingers curled into the spot he knew made her see stars, his tongue circled her clit with unrelenting determination.

He glanced up at her, seeing her head thrown back with eyes screwed closed as he increased his pace. He knew he was doing good when he felt her body tensing up below him, her legs beginning to shake. She gave a hard tug on his hair when he pulled away and let out a stream of cold breath onto her clit before attaching his hot mouth back to it. She came with a cry of his name, tensing around him as her blood seemed to run through white hot fire. Her thighs clamped around his head, spurring him on to continue his feast as he rode her through her high. He managed to get his right hand free and bring it up to her mouth, tapping her lips which she opened without question. He shoved them in, so long he almost triggered her gag reflex. She instantly closed around them, sucking herself off of him while effectively silencing her from their neighbor’s ears. He used his thumb and pinky to grip her chin and turn her face to the camera. She whimpered when she saw how much of a mess she was, how much of a submissive puddle he turned her into without trying. The visual spurred her into another orgasm. When she finally came back to Earth, she let her legs go limp and released her boyfriend, much to his dismay.

He traced his lips back up to hers, pushing into her mouth. When he released their kiss, he left small pecks on her jaw, coming to her ear, “My favorite meal. Now my favorite show.”

She grabbed his jaw and brought him back to her lips where he lost himself for an unknown amount of time. He was achingly hard. Rowan ran her hand down his shoulders, past the scar on his ribs from when he got hit by a tree branch in the field, down his abs that he gained from always running from tornadoes, to run her hand over his length. She would never get used to it; he was the biggest she’d ever had, and he knew how to use it. He could bring her to tears without being fully seated in her. He had to coach her into taking deep breaths the first time they’d done it because she was so tense he couldn’t push in. Now, they knew the drill.

She pulled his belt off with one hand and discarded it somewhere in the room before popping his button. He discarded his pants and underwear off the bed, once again on his haunches, pumping himself in his right hand. Her hair was a messy halo around her, her skin shiny with sweat.

He lifted her legs to hang over his thighs, leaving her wide open for him to push into her without pain. His eyes flickered to the camera before coming back to hers; she nodded. He picked the camera up, and fixed the angle to where it was a clear shot of him entering her. With every inch he gave, her whimpers grew louder. “Bite down on the bandana for me sweetheart.”

She nodded blindly, biting down on the cloth that smelled exactly like him, like the cologne he wore that made her nearly stumble when she first met him. Her senses were clouded from anything else in the world. All that existed was him. The camera was an extension of him, like it always was.

When he was fully seated in, he gave a few long in and out thrusts, letting her adjust to his size before putting the recorder in its spot. When she gave him the nod that he was okay to move, he lifted one of her legs to rest on his shoulder, pressing a kiss to her ankle where she had a tattoo of a tornado, courtesy of Lilly and an empty bottle of Jack.

He gripped her hip with his free hand before he began to hammer into her. The sound of skin slapping filled the room. Her noises were one of his favorite things about sex with her, but he really did not need the neighbors knowing that he hadn’t even given her 30 minutes before they went at it; the bandana was not cutting it. He gathered up the material that was still hanging out her mouth and shoved it in. He gave a short “sorry” when he heard her gag but he wasn’t sure she heard it because he gave a very hard thrust at the same time that caused her eyes to roll backwards. He placed his hand over her mouth as well to keep her silent, her leg pressed against her chest.

Her hands dug crescents into his biceps and left long marks down his back. He had absolutely no complaints. If he could find a way to make the feel of him buried in her cunt permanent, he would. Boone grunted in her ear when she squeezed around him, “Be good, honey.” He felt her moan vibrate through his hand. 

She was getting close, he could feel it. She kept lifting her hips in a way to both escape the pleasure but also find new angles for him to hit in hopes it would be what set her off. He snaked his hand off her hip and used his rough thumb to circle her clit. In seconds, he sent her over the edge. She tensed so hard around him he couldn’t thrust her through it. Her tightness sent him over the edge, his face buried in her hair while he was groaning her name paired with a whimper of overstimulation. When he finally pulled out, he got the camera again to film the dripping of his spend out her cunt. He reached a hand out and smeared his cum across her cunt. She jerked and whimpered, the feeling too much so soon after he finished her again. 

He turned the camera to her face as he gave her his cum covered fingers to suck on. She had a sleepy, not-fully-on-Earth smile plastered on her face. She stared at the lens, at the extension of Boone, “Hi, baby.”

He held the camera out with one arm while he moved to connect their lips again.

The camera ran out of battery just as Boone was setting it up to look into the shower, right after he got a shot of Rowan on her knees with her tongue out, covered in his release, before she swallowed and showed her empty tongue to the camera.

He cursed when the screen turned black, an alert to change SD cards coming up. Rowan laughed and closed it after turning it off, grabbing his hand and pulling him into the shower. “You’ll just have to remember this round.”

-

Her hair left a damp spot on the pillow beneath him, but he didn’t mind. She was half asleep in the nook he made for her between his shoulder and arm, her eyes closed as she inhaled the scent of his soap and shampoo. If his arm was asleep under her, he said nothing. He had changed the sheets with the ones from the closet while she searched through his bag and her own to find something to wear. She ultimately decided on a pair of sleep shorts she brought and one of his plain t-shirts that hung oversized on her. She had a fist resting on his chest and had her leg across his waist; he lightly scratched at it, a comforting motion to help lure her to sleep.

He adjusted his head to leave a kiss on the top of her head. “I love you, Rowan.”

She was too tired to make any words, so she gave him a hum that both acknowledged his words and returned the sentiment. She kissed the nearest part of him she could before settling back into her cocoon. He pulled the blankets up closer to her chin.

[hadesnumber1daughter]

Pretty like the sun

Pairing: Percy Jackson x Apollo daughter OC (she classes as an oc cause I gave her a name but you can just read it like your name or Y/N if you want, I just feel better when I'm writing and the characters have names :)

Summary: Percy has always felt something for you, something that you had felt aswell. These quests of life and death finally knocked some sense into you two.

Warnings: Blood, Pain, Agony, Violence, Weapons, Wounds, Wound treating, Curse words, Oblivious idiots, Fluff, Angsty??, Sexual tension, Mutual pining, Almost death, Non-Canon, Hugs, Kisses, Holding hands, Ooc Percy??? Cerberus as a violent dog (ik she isnt really but this is my imagine so idc), Not proof-read, GUT-WRENCHING LOVE, IDK how i wrote this considering I've never been in a relationship OR have ever had an actual crush in my 16 sad years of life

Words: 6.3k

Notes: This is my first imagine so I'm sorry if its bad😭😭. Also if anyone would be willing to give me a few pointers when it comes to working this app as a creator please do cause, yeah I've been using this app for years but I have no idea how to use it when it comes to posting things. I would be very grateful. ❤️❤️❤️. Also, if anyone wants to request something else for me to write I would love to write something for either Percy or Luke, I'll probably make a list of people who I'm willing to write for later today cause it is 10am rn and I haven't slept so I'll just go bed after this 😭😭😭

As soon as percy got handed this quest, with Grover being part of the cloven council and Annabeth being gone to spend time with her family, Percy knew his immediate first choice would be Aurora, there was no doubt about it. The Apollo girl had a spark about her that has drawn him in the second he laid eyes on her.

He had deemed it because she was a daughter of Apollo so there would always be some sort of light that would draw him in, but he hasnt been very sure of that for a very long time. Every time he laid eyes on her, it felt as though time stood still and she was the only source of light and happiness in this dark, gloomy world. 

They had became extremely close when he first came to camp, she taught him the ropes in archery as to put it plainly, he was absolutely shit at it. He had no aim and his stance was awful, in her own words.

When she first said that to him, he wanted to throw her in a dumpster, but then he saw her, he properly saw her. He didnt know what Aphrodite looked like, but he was sure she would be a spitting image of the girl. He was even more sure that she was a daughter of Aphrodite but instead she was not, which made sense as to why she was hanging around the archery booth. From that day forward, she helped him freshen his archery skills, and he helped her with her sword skills.

He has never understood why she wouldnt ask Luke as he was the best swords-man and would probably be a better trainer. However, when he brough it up to her one time her cheeks flushed the tiniest bit and she stated how she was helping him, so he should do that same.

That's how they have ended up here. In the middle of nowhere, trying to find and 'kill' a beast that has been accidently lost and let out from the underworld and send it back. Although quests always have 3 people on them, the oracle specifically stated that this was only a 2 person job. Percy had never been so sure in picking Aurora at that moment in time. 

🌊

"Are you sure we are going the right way Perce, I swear I've seen this tree 3 times already" Aurora stated this time taking a dagger and marking said tree with an X so if they do cross it again, she would be right.

"You never trust my navigation skills sunshine, why is that, is it cause you always get lost in my eyes" he says turning to look at her with a smug smile on his face. The girl abruptly stopped at his turn and could feel the blood rush to her cheeks in that moment, her honey-brown eyes immediately locked with his water coloured eyes and she broke the gaze, not letting him have the satisfaction of being right.

"You wish seaweed brain" she muttered and walked past him knocking into his shoulder in the process which led to him letting out a dramatic gasp.

"That hurts sunshine. Where are you going, it's getting dark, we should stop, set up camp and get some rest so we can re-think and re-strategize." The girl slowly stops her steps and turns her back to the boy who is standing there leaning against a tree with his arms crossed giving her a cocky glance that makes her want to die and kill him at the same time. 

The two had a stand-off for a bit before one decided to speak up.

"As long as I don't have to scavenge this creepy forest for wood then its fine by me" the girl said walking back to him while his eyes following her every movement till she was a few steps away from him. The girl went to grab something from her pocket with her left hand and with her right, she grabbed the boys arms and dragged her hand down it, to his hand which automatically opened up. She placed something cold into it with her left hand.

He looked at her and she had a glint in her eyes he hadn't seen for the past 12 hours, looking to his palm, he was a coin. Not just any ordinary coin or ordinary drachma. It was a coin from sea life, the one coin they give to one another which can be used for many thing, they talked it over before the quest. The coin can only be used for 2 things during this quest, to make sure the other doesnt die, or the person who has been handed the coin has to do what the person giving the coin wants no matter what.

He looked up at her with a confused look but seeing the mischief in her eyes gave enough away. Sighing he pocketed the coin and stepped away from the tree which only left 3 steps in-between the two. 

"What do you want me to do" not even bothering arguing.

"I want to see you fail at making a fire" she said just giving him the brightest smile, basically oozing sunlight from her. The boy felt like a deer stuck in headlights in that moment, he almost forgot the reason for her heavenly smile. He wanted to tell her he loved her right there and then, that he could never get enough of her, that he searched for her in every room he ever walked into, that she was the one and only constant source of light in his life, that she was the sun and he would orbit her in every universe no matter how close he got, no matter how much it destroyed him. He was utterly inconsolable without her. He loved her.

"Aurora" the boy started to say, in a serious tone which immediately made the girl's smile falter as she looked into his eyes, he didnt need to say anything. His eyes spoke more words than he would have liked, enough for the girl to get the message and understand him. All of the glances, the subtle touches, the comfort of each other like no other. She felt and understood it all. 

He was about of continue when a roar sounded, echoing in all directions and rustling the trees. The two could hear the howl of Cerberus all around them. Percy immediately uncapped riptide while Aurora unclasped her bracelet which turned into a bow and an unlimited supply of arrows. 

The both circled back to back, covering each others blind spot like muscle memory. They could feel the ground shake with each step the otherworldly creature took. 

"How are we going to do this?" the girl asked while keeping an eye on all of her surroundings. 

"You distract with your arrows as they are long-range and while she's focused on you, I'll go for the kill shot"

"She can't die" she could feel him rolling her eyes as the words left her mouth.

"You know what I mean" 

They could hear the low growl from the side of them. The three-headed beast emerged in all its glory with its 6 menacing eyes ready to rip these two teens to shreds and send the wrong beings in this equation to the underworld. Percy turned to stand next to Aurora and the girl grabbed his hand and squeezed to which he immediately responded. There were many unspoken words that had been said in the past 10 minutes and this was another addition 'dont die, be safe, come back to me'.

Slipping through her fingers, his hand left hers and quietly stalked away before the beast could get any idea there were 2 of them. Wishing the best for the boy, she instantly got the dogs attention by shooting an arrow at the middle head's nose. 

It did not like that.

They all barked at once and got ready to run at the girl. She didn't like to admit it but she was fucking terrified. Cerberus ran at her and she leapt to the side and ran as fast as she could not looking back until she could feel he's a little away from her. She got another arrow ready in her bow and blindly shot it behind her. 

She heard a small whimper which brought a smirk to her face but that was immediately wiped away as she heard the barking intensify. Hiding behind a tree the girl caught her breaths and looked for the hound and she couldnt spot it or Percy. She got another arrow ready and looked behind the tree once again but was faced with the thing she was hunting. 

Fear spread to every part of her body and she had no time to brace the impact as the dog clawed the tree which in return clawed her. She let out a bloodcurdling scream as she was flung into another tree. The bark from the destroyed tree splintered her, her head hit against a tree on impact and the large gash on her side felt like a fire that was melting her skin off. The girl felt her breath stick in her throat, she felt as though she was dying as immense pain filled her and black spots invaded her vision. Only one other thing was on her mind.

Percy.

The ocean eyed boy lost sight of Cerberus immediately as it began to chase Aurora, his Aurora. He followed as fast as he could not wanting anything bad to happen to the girl he loved before he got any chance to be with her, to confess and to just live a life content with his feelings. 

As he heard, the whoosh of Aurora's arrows increase, he could feel himself being uncapable of keeping up with the beast from the underworld and he cursed himself for it. He lost sight of Cerberus and it scared him, it was too quiet. He couldn't hear the creature or the girl he loved. 

His heartbeat quickened as he looked all around him trying to see a glimpse of either of them. 

Then all blood drain out of his face when he heard the one sound he wished he did not have to hear, ever. Aurora's scream made his heart almost leap out of his chest. He didnt know what to do, he didnt know where she was, he couldnt see the hound, its his fault, she going to die because of him. 

She most certainly is going to die if you dont get a fucking move on, that one voice in his head said. And he pushed all the doubts to the back of his head and focused on 2 things. Defeating Cerberus and finding Aurora. 

He could hear the three-headed dogs footsteps and instantly ran to it. It didnt see him coming and it's tail was on the ground so he didnt the best thing he could think of. He ran up the tail onto the body of the beast.

This elicited loud barking from the beast and Percy could only do one thing. Repeatedly stab the dog until it dissolved. 

Now... admittedly, this was not a good strategy. It was fucking awful. There was no thought to his stabs, they all just angered the beast and considering she was quite resistance to stabs, it wasnt helping. He was just tiring himself out. 

He then has the genius idea of stabbing the beast in the eye, or eyes. He started with the left head. The beast let out a large whimper, and stumbled which cause the boy to almost loose his grip on it. He wasnt going to stop now, he needed to send Cerberus back and get to Aurora.

Aurora. Her scream was echoing in his mind. Bouncing around his skull like he has no brain inside, only her gut-wrenching scream.

He subtly shook his head. As much as he was dreading where she was and if she was okay. He needed to secure Cerberus and he needed all attention to so it as fast a possible to get back to his sunshine.

He then stabbed riptide into both the right heads eyes. Percy knew what to expect this time so he braced himself and held on as tight as he could. He could not fail now. He was too close.

The dog slumped onto the floor which made percy's last task much more easier. With agility and caution the boy leapt onto the middle head and punctured the eyes out which evoked a whimper which made the boy feel bad for the animal and it slowly turned to dust. 

In an instant the boy caught his breath and his mind raced with only one thing. 

Aurora.

"Aurora! Sunshine! Where are you?" The boy felt as though he could not breathe. His head was spinning trying to find her in the mountains of trees and in the darkness of this forest, he has never needed to see her more now than any other time. 

"Aurora! Please if you can hear me make a sound! Anything so I know you're alive" He would never leave her. He would die before he left her to rot in these woods. He would never be able to face the guilt and loss.

"Please! Say SOMETHING" he could feel himself getting frustrated. "HELP! SOMEONE, ANYONE" tears welded in his eyes trying to find her. 

There was a rustle of leaves from the left side behind him. He was running to the sound before it even registered in the back of his mind. He kept hearing the rustling and a small whimper. 

He saw a faint glow of light behind a tree and he held his breath for the sight that was to come. He skidded to a stop and fell on his knees infront of her.

His heart dropped to his stomach when he saw her. Her face was significantly paler than when he left her and she had a wood splinter sticking out of her thigh and worst of all, the 4 claw marks across her abdomen with blood everywhere, it seemed to have stopped pouring, but it was a nauseating sight to see. He didnt know what to do. 

"Aurora, darling, open your eyes" his hands reached her cheeks and his thumb rubbed circled on her cheek and his two fingers made their way to her neck to check her pulse. He let out a sigh of relief when he felt a pulse. It was faint but not too faint to the point it would slip too far out of his grasp. 

He reached for his bag on his back to get some first aid supplies, ambrosia and nectar for the girl, when she let out a pained gasp.

The girl had barely an recollection of anything, the only thing on her mind at the moment was the immense pain shooting through her whole body, It felt like she was on fire and couldnt breathe. She wanted to die.

Then her vision cleared and she saw the golden haired boy looked at her like she was the only thing in the whole world, he held so much worry in his eyes that she thought for a second if she was already dead and it was her spirit seeing his reaction to her death.

"Gods, Aurora, you're okay. You had be so worried, I was terrified, I cannot lose you. If I lost you I would lose myself" The boy held one hand to her cheek while speaking so intently to her.

In that one moment she could feel his stare, like clockwork, bubble something inside of her. It almost made her forget why she was on the ground, why she could taste something metallic in the back of her mouth, why she couldnt move her right leg. It almost took it away. Almost.

That fire spread throughout her body again and she couldnt stop the wail that left her mouth. The pain was nauseating. A flood of curses left Percy's mouth as he grabbed the bottle of nectar and opened it.

"Okay, sunshine, I know you're in a lot of pain but I'm going to give you some nectar, you need to drink it but you need to sit up a little straighter." The girl immediately shook her head as a no in response to the boy. 

"I know. The amount of times we've both had to do it but you know deep down that its the only thing that will fix it." The girl tried to harden her stare at the boy but she was too weak to even look at him properly.

"O-okay, but... I can't" she inhaled sharply as she tried to move the slightest bit. She didn't have to finish her sentence for the boy to understand what she was trying to say. He took one his flannel button ups from his bag, scrunched it up and gave it to her. She could only give him a confused look.

"Put it in your mouth, bite down hard cause I'm gonna move you into the right position and its gonna be a pain. I'm sorry sunshine but I have to." She took it with her shaking hands and was about to put it in her mouth when she smelt it, sea salt and musk, then the girl really looked at what the item of clothing was. 

"this is yours" she said in a hoarse voice, looking up at him, confusion plastered all over her features.

"Well I dont exactly know where your bag is so next best thing." he gave her a weak smile and moved closer to her but she weakly grabbed his hand.

"I'm scared" she whispered so pathetically but the boy understood, he knew her. He knew that he needed to keep talking to her, to make sure he is doing something close enough to her for her to know that she's still alive. 

He only interlaced their fingers and pressed a kiss to the back of her hand. 

"I won't let go, I promise. You aren't leaving me, not after everything we have been through together" the girl's eyes welled with tears but she nodded and stuffed her mouth with Percy's flannel. 

He wrapped his arms around her from the side, where he was sitting and placed a kiss in the hair before counting down.

"3...2..." the boy didnt get to 1 before he pulled her up so she was sitting not laying down and with the movement came muffled screams and tears that flowed down the girls face. He was whispering sweet nothings in her ear as she lent into him and he repeatedly kissed her hair or forehead. 

"I'm sorry sunshine, I really am. When you're all better I promise you can hit me" he tried to uplift her but she could barely hear him. Her body shook and agony filled her every sense. He couldn't even express the guilt and regret he felt for the girl, immediately grabbing the nectar, and slowly taking his flannel out of her mouth. 

"You're doing great sweetheart" he says while slowly pouring the nectar into her mouth. Her head is resting against his shoulder as she swallows the drink down in small sips. After she drank it, Percy put it away and the girl began to close her eyes.

"Hey, hey, sunshine you can't be doing that right now. Come on I need to patch you up and then we need to get back to camp, I'll call blackjack. I know how much you like riding on him" he lifts her head off his shoulder and places her on the tree, but this time sitting up so he has easy access to her abdomen. 

She opened one eye and slightly smiled at the boy.

"You're gonna call blackjack?" the girl asked a bit delirious but seemingly in less pain. This brought a instant smile to him as he let out a chuckle, nodding his head while grabbing gauze and 2 bandage rolls.

"I promise I will, but you have to make sure to keep fighting okay. Once this is over, I have something special to tell you" He came loser to the girl and her breath slowed for a moment. 

He looked at her abdomen and a thought crossed his head that made blood rush to his cheeks, he was thankful the girl was delirious and it was dark or else he would simply wallow away. He cleared his throat and looked back up to the girl.

"I'm going to have to cut your shirt off so I can access the cuts and clean them properly" he looked into her eyes once but couldnt face her after that.

"okay" she whispered in return, locking her eyes onto his every move. 

The boy went back into his bag and grabbed a pair of scissors then faced the girl again. He could feel her watchful eyes on him the entire time and he hated to say it but that small voice in the back of his head was wishing she was a bit more delirious right now so he wasnt under her scrutiny while undressing her. Clearing his throat again, he begins to speak.

"Just tell me when to slow down or when to stop, if it gets too painful for you and I'll stop and slow down, okay" he looked to her for reassurance and an okay, to which she nodded.

He didn't know how to position himself so he just opted for kneeling next to her, facing her. He then grabbed the scissors and started to cut her top. Starting from the bottom to the top. As he reached the first claw mark the girl hissed as the shirt was stuck to the wound due to all the dried blood. Percy automatically stopped what he was doing. 

"No, no, keep going, don't stop now otherwise we will never get this done and I can't go back to camp cause I'll be dead" her honey-brown eyes were glossed with tears and the boy just wanted to hold her in his arms until the end of time in a place where they aren't fighting monsters all the damn time and in a place where they can settle down, have fun and just enjoy their life like regular teenagers.

"Don't say that so casually, you are not going to die. Not when you have me. Not when I'll always be here for you, patching you up, nursing you back to health forever. I will never in a million years let you die. I swear on the river Styx." 

She couldn't say anything to him, he will always render her speechless. She just nodded her head as tears cascaded down her cheeks to which he wiped away and placed a kiss on her forehead. Feeling the warmth off eachother brought a sense of peace to them that no one else could ever fill. 

He finished wiping her tears away and then continued cutting her shirt away from the wound. Every time she hissed, winced or flinched, the boy had the overwhelming urge to stop everything he was doing as long as it stopped bring her more pain. Whenever this would happen, the girl would softly squeeze his knee, as her hand was resting there to make sure he was still close to her and was still okay and breathing. 

This reassured him immensely but it did not stop him from the guilt that was drowning him. This would not have happened if it wasn't for him. She would not be in this position right now if he just chose someone else to go on the quest with. She had almost died due to his decision making. He chose her, he told her the plan, the plan that put her straight into danger, he didnt even second guess his choice, he put her into the battlefield without even asking her properly. Whatever he said went. 

The boy had not realised that during his intense self-loathing session, he zoned out and stopped the task at hand.

"Perce?" the girl asked while bringing her hand from his knee to his bicep. "Are you okay? whats going on in your kelp filled brain?" she said with a half smile as the boy looked up at her.

"Nothing, its okay. Just zoned out for a sec" he replied in an instant, looked away from her and continued to cut her shirt away. He was almost at her breasts and he could feel himself getting a bit hot. Obviously, there was no reason to in this situation but just being so close and intimate to her in a non sexual way made him flustered, he couldn't even imagine of it was in a sex- STOP. He shouted at his brain.

She let out a whimper of pain and a few laboured breaths as Percy carefully peeled her shirt of off the biggest wound she had. Her hand squeezed his knee harder than he would have liked her to but it didnt matter, not anymore, not when he caused this, not when he was the reason for her pain. 

He finally got it off the biggest cut and last cut and now he just had to cut the rest of the shirt off. No big deal right?

WRONG. 

The boy was telling himself to suck it up and just cut the rest of her shirt off but he was flustered. It was times like this that made him remember he was just a boy. He was just a boy with a silly crush. Except it isnt a 'silly crush' he was utterly in love with the girl. He tried to clear his head and at the same time, cleared his throat while he cut higher. 

He could feel her eyes watching him, he could feel how fast her heart was racing and he could feel how fast his own was racing. It was as though their hearts were in sync. Every beat was the same. 

Yes the girl felt flustered in this situation, she also couldn't help but want to tease the boy she loved. The girl had always grown up with a life where she never 'loved' anyone, not truly. To her love was always a very strong word in her dictionary but whatever she felt for Percy Jackson it was so powerful she felt as though she needed a word more meaningful than love. 

A word that expressed how everytime she thought of him, that specific memory of him will be branded in her brain forever to the point where even Hera could never make her forget him or forget the way he makes her feel.

He makes her feel alive, the most alive shes every felt in her 16 years of life.

"Are you blushing water boy?" the girl asked him with a half smile on her face and eyes half opened as she felt a sharp pain run through her, while also trying to control her own breathing at the same time. Percy didn't respond, he only kept cutting her shirt off, fingers lightly brushing over the material of her bra. 

She held her breath when he did that, whether it was on purpose of not, the feeling it sent through her body made her want to repeatedly bash her head against a solid wall while ripping her eyes out... in a good way of course. 

Percy finally cut her shirt fully off and it just slid down her arms and bunched at the bottom, near the tree. She felt exposed and could feel the goosebumps on her exposed skin. Percy didn't waste any time and grabbed a clean towel and his water bottle.

Before he could drenched it in water, she stopped him by kicking him with her uncompromised leg to indicate he needed to stop. This instantly stopped him and caused him to look at her. 

"Give me the water bottle before you soak the towel, if the water is warm it will work better and not hurt as much so i'll just heat it up" Percy thought about it for a second before he retaliated.

"You already aren't well enough to get off the ground, how on earth are you going to make it back to camp if you drain yourself of more energy. I know its going to hurt but it will either way, but getting you back to camp is the priority at the moment" Percy didnt want to say those words to the girl, he felt so bad for her and he couldn't help but blame himself. And when he looked into her eyes, like really looked into her eyes after he said that, he wished he could take it back.

Just looking at her made him want to give into her. 

"I can take it, I promise, I'll be okay enough to get back to camp, but I'm telling you now Percy, if I feel anymore extreme pain, I will just end up passing out. Please just let me do this." she tried to move closer to the boy but forgot about the fact that she literally could not move a single inch without his help. 

This just lead the boy to wrap his arm around her back and lent her against the tree again. He looked at her with a stern look.

"Okay, you win. But you have to promise on the river Styx that you will preserve every other bit of your energy for the ride back home." 

"I swear on the River Styx that I will preserve every other bit of my energy for the ride back to camp" He gave her one last look before giving her the water bottle. She focused some most of her energy to her hands and they started to glow. She took the bottle from percy's hand and he could feel the warmth radiate off of her. 

He looked at her in awe but if anyone else was there they would have told you that the boy was love struck. She opened her eyes and made sure to not boil the water. As it was simmering, she gave the bottle back to the boy and he instantly uncapped it and poured the, now warm, water onto the towel. 

"This is going to hurt... a lot, and by a lot i mean a lot, you might want to brace yourself" the boy said as he gave his flannel back to her and some ambrosia for her to eat before they start the painful part of fixing her up.

Aurora took both and muttered a small thanks under her breath before eating the ambrosia which was very pleasant to chew and then stuffed percy's flannel in her mouth again. She felt so weird but if she didnt and someone heard her scream bloody murder, they would get caught and the police would want them... again.

His ocean blue eyes met her honey eyes and he shared a look of regret and guilt before he wiped the dried blood away, starting from the bottom of her abdomen. She instantly clenched her jaw and recoiled as agony ran through her and her hand immediately shot out to grab Percy's wrist in a painfully tight hold to stop him from further cleaning the wounds that caused her pain.

"Sunshine, I know its painful, but I have to do this, I'm going to do this as fast and gently as I can but I will have to be rough at times" he gently takes his freehand to clasp over hers and took it of him and intertwined them while speaking to her. 

In his favour, it seemed that the energy it took the girl to warm the water up finally caught up with her as her hand lost most of its grip and her eyes closed slightly. He chuckled slightly and placed her hand back down next to her before continuing what he was doing.

He carefully but efficiently cleaned the areas surrounding her wounds while she was rejuvenating. He would hear muffled noises from time to time but other than that she was essentially knocked out. As he finished she seemed to feel less tired and her eyes opened wider than they did before.

"I'm almost finished sunshine, did you like your nap?" the boy questioned with a smirk but deep down he was glad that she kept her promise and she would have enough energy to go back to camp.

The girl nodded and looked at her abdomen. It was really clean and the wounds were barely bleeding anymore but she was fucking freezing. She shivered a little bit and percy could tell instantly.

"I've just got to bandage you up then you can put a jumper on. Okay?" he reassured her while taking the sterile dressing, he placed it over the 4 slashes and began to unwrap the dressing to bandage her up.

They both soon found the position to be quite awkward. 

Percy needed to bandage her whole abdomen which needed him to wrap the dressing over her back but she was lent up against the tree without a shirt on and unable to move to do it herself. He stopped to think of a good way to do this.

"Okay, I've got it. I'll lean you up against me and bandage your abdomen from behind." The girl thought for a bit before she agreed and the boy got up so he was only seen in her peripheral vision. He hooked his arms under hers and moved her along the ground to sit inbetween his legs. The position felt very compromising for both of them but it needed to be done.

She could feel his warm breath on her cold neck and she felt the urge to pass away because if thats how she passed, she would not mind. She held her breath as Percy begun wrapping her abdomen, she could barely feel the pain cause all she could think about and feel was him.

His breath on her neck, his fingers brushing her skin, how carefully he was handling her, like she would break at the wrong touch. He was everything she wanted, everything she needed. Everything they both deserved.

He quickly finished wrapping her up and he mentally called Blackjack from where ever he was right now. Before he could move or start to get things sorted he just looked at Aurora. She was peaceful. She looked ethereal under the moonlight, though she did look better under direct sunlight.

He decided to just stay still for a bit and wrapped an arms around the girl loosely as to not injure or hurt her more. They just needed some rest, no matter how long or short it was.

Both Aurora and Percy could hear the flap of Blackjacks wings so he quickly moved the girl back to lean against the tree while he packed everything away. Not before making sure to torniquet the girls leg where the wood piece was still protruding out of it. He made the decision before to not take it out as they both did not know how severe the injury underneath it was.

Percy grabbed a warm, woolly jumper from his bag and a blanket and gave both items to the girl before zipping it up.

"I'm going to find your bag and your bracelet before we leave, and before you say anything. I'm going to call Blackjack here to be with you before I look for them" he stated as he got up.

"Thanks a lot Perce, but before you look, how am I meant to put this jumper on without raising my arms and disrupting my bandages" Percy felt like an idiot. He dropped his bag back on the ground and knelt next to her carefully putting the jumper through one arms hole, then the next, then her head through.

Percy would never admit it there and then but he always loved when the girl would wear his clothes. It sent a warm fuzzy feeling through him knowing she was wearing his clothes, especially when she was willingly wearing his clothes. 

Similarly, Aurora would never admit it there but having Percy help her get changed into his clothes and help clean her up made her fall even more in love with him if that was even possible. She felt as though she was just falling into deep pit everytime he did anything for her or even just looked her way. 

He finished by wrapping her up in the blanket and chuckled when he saw how she looked... Exactly like a burrito. 

Blackjack came down and the girls eyes instantly widened at the sight of the creature. To which the boy just smiled at. Before he left to retrieve her bag and bracelet which were very easy to find. He quickly arrived back to the girl and Pegasus and was met with an adorable sight.

The Pegasus was on the floor next to the girl and was almost hugging her with its wing. Percy didnt think he could fall in love with the girl again but she has gone and proved him wrong, like always. 

"I've got your things sunshine, and I know its going to hurt but I'm going to have to pick you up to put you on Blackjack. Is that okay?" He knelt next to her and she nodded.

He wrapped an arm around her back and one under her knees, making sure not to hit the piece of wood and picked the girl up, quite easily, bridal style. It make them both feel fuzzy and warm inside. Even blackjack could feel the warmth.

He placed her sitting on the Pegasus so she would be infront of him when he got on. He then grabbed both of their bags and got onto blackjack himself. 

"You'd normally need to hold on tight to blackjack but I'll hold you okay? Just rest" The boy whispered in her ear as he gave her a peck on her cheek while she slowly drifted off and leaned her head back onto the boy's shoulder.

"Blackjack, No crazy flying today. We aren't at war today, its a rest day. Just take us back to camp, quick but not to the point we normally fly." Blackjacks reply left Percy with pink staining his cheeks and they made their way back to camp.

______________________________________________________________

OH MY FUCKING DAYS, I AM NEVER WRITING ANYTHING THIS LONG AGAIN

(such a fucking lie)

But I have to honest, apart from the small mental breakdowns. This was really fun to write. I love these two soo much.

When I went into this, I wanted to actually get them back to camp and I wanted them to confess but it was getting tooooooo long for that so if anyone wants a part 2, I'll gladly make it. Please dont critique me too much, this is still my first imagine 😭😭😭

I LOVE YOU ALL ❤️❤️❤️

unless you piss me off

[ahgasegotarmy116]

Just Take It | Bonus Drabble 4

Summary: You come home after a hard day at work and despite your best efforts you can't hep but let it upset you but he's always there to comfort you no matter how big or small your problems are. (A little glimpse into their future together) Pairing: Inexperienced f!reader x Best Friend's Dad Jungkook (20 year age gap) Word Count: 2.2K~ (y'all back to back hella long drabbles damn I'm on one tonight lmaoo) Warning: Some suggestive language but nothing crazy lol a/n: Damn I'm spoiling you guys but idk since I was able it get them done so quickly I thought why not 🤷🏻‍♀️ I promise I'll get back to the main storyline soon but these drabbles have been so cute I cant 😭 (written in one sitting and not edited cuz I need to go to bed lmao) Requested by: @pamzn 💜 Start from the beginning

I take a deep breath before getting out of my car after pulling up to the house.

I don't know why I'm so upset about what happened today. It wasn't even a big deal but something about it just struck a nerve.

Walking into the house I'm greeted by the sight of Jungkook already making dinner and just from that first glance I'm already feeling better.

"Welcome home Bunny. You're pretty late tonight" he says, focusing on the food that seems to be something that may or may not burn if he doesn't pay attention to it.

"Yeah I had some extra work to do so I figured I would just stay later tonight and get it all taken care of so I won't have to worry about it on Monday" I say, giving his a short version of what happened without telling him exactly what happened.

"Look at you, my darling little girl has been working so hard lately" he says as I walk up to him and give him a kiss. Glancing down at his adorable apron he's wearing.

"Maybe you should be my house husband. You look so cute wearing that and making me dinner. Could get used to this" I say getting up on my tippy toes to kiss him again and he smiles into it. "You know I would make a great one" he teases, rubbing his nose up against mine.

"Can you set the table for me baby? It's almost ready" he asks, turning back to whatever he decided to make us tonight. "Of course Daddy" I tease and he gives me a smirk before nodding towards the cabinet to do as he says.

"You still have enough time before it's ready if you wanna go upstairs and change. I know you hate wearing your work clothes all day" he says after I finish the task he had given me.

"Okay" I say and make my way upstairs to do just that but once I'm alone again that playful attitude dissipates and the emotions from before start creeping up again.

I make quick work of getting changed and once I head back downstairs I walk up to him and wrap my arms around him from behind, resting my head against his back, hoping that the feeling of being close to him will take it all away and it does but I can't help but let out a few tears to get some sense of relief.

"What's the matter Bunny?" he asks, the few tears I've let fall having fallen on his shirt and dampened it and soon I let out a soft sniffle which then has him turning around to face me. Caressing my cheek, seeing the sadness written all over my face.

"Baby tell me what's wrong" he says, trying to coax the answer out of me but when the tears start to fall more freely he pulls me in and rests my head against his chest, rubbing my back and telling me to let it all out.

"I should've known something was wrong when you called me Daddy. You only do that when you're upset and not feeling well" he mumbles to himself. He places a kiss on the crown of my head before grabbing my hips and setting me on the counter, trying to make us be at eye level so he can talk to me.

When he does that though I just pull him in closer, letting out a few more cries into the crook of his neck before I start to calm down, my sniffles becoming less frequent and my tears running dry.

He leans back and tilts his head to the side trying to catch my eye and when I still don't look at him he straightens back up and tilts my chin up so he can look at my face, studying me to see if he can read any signs before asking me any questions.

"Did the other interns leave the rest of their work for you to finish up?" he asks, hitting the nails right on the head and I nod while he wipes off my tears, grabbing one of the tissues off the counter to help.

"You gotta tell someone about that. It's not your job to pick up the slack for everyone else" he says, reminding me of the fact that I'm only there to do what I'm responsible for.

"I know but I'm still the new girl so I don't wanna rock the boat already" but he shakes his head at my answer. "You can't let people take advantage of you like that love, they're there to work too so they should be able to finish up their workload just like you do everyday" he says and I nod my head, knowing that in theory but still not wanting to get anyone in trouble.

"Weren't you guys all supposed to go out for drinks after work tonight?" he asks, remembering how excited I was about finally getting invited to spend time with my coworkers outside of office hours.

"Yeah but they said something along the lines of 'Go ahead and finish this up and when you're finished text one of us and we'll let you know if we're still hanging out. Although I think we're probably gonna finish up early tonight'" I repeate what the clearly self appointed queen bee of the total of five interns in our department said to me.

"Oh Bunny" he says, pulling me in for another hug as I let out a sob, still a little emotional about it. "You've had a hard time at work all week and then they go and do this. If you don't tell somebody then I will" he says trying to come to my defense but I just laugh at his protective nature.

"It's alright. I'll email our supervisor and let her know what's been going on" I say and he pulls back and looks me straight in the eyes. "You promise?" he says pointedly and I nod my head, leaning in for a kiss, "I promise" I reassure and he looks at me clearly still suspicious but letting it go for now.

"Honey" I say, grabbing his attention when he decides to head over to the sink and get me a glass of water. "What's up?" I asks, and I look over at the stove before looking back over at him.

"I think your sauce is burning" I say with a cringe and he places the cup that he had been holding down before hurriedly going to turn the stove off, taking it off the heat and assessing the damage.

"I'm sorry" I say, feeling bad for taking his attention off the food he had clearly put a lot of time and effort into based off of all the dirty dishes I see littered around the kitchen.

"It's alright Darling you have nothing to be sorry about. I should've been more careful and turned the stove off" he admits and I take the spoon out of the pan and taste the sauce, doing my best to keep a poker face as he watches me attentively, waiting to see if it's completely ruined.

I place the spoon back into the pan and he waits with bated breath. "So?" he says and I nod my head and swallow down what I had in my mouth. "Yeah it's good" I say and grants me a shocked expression.

"Really?" he asks and then does the same thing I did, surprised that it's still edible. "No" I giggle once he closes his lips around the spoon leaving him yanking it out of his mouth and rushing over to the sink to spit it out, grabbing the cup nearby and using it to gargle and hopefully get the taste out of his mouth.

"That's disgusting! How did you even eat that?" he asks, truly impressed with my tastebuds. "I didn't try very much. Plus I think your reaction was a little dramatic don't you think?" I tease while he gulps down a whole glass of water.

"We clearly have very different pallets because that is horrible" he says, filling up his glass one last time and gargling one more time before placing it in the sink.

"I really am sorry it got ruined" I apologize again but he shakes him head. "You're more important to me than any wacky new recipe I was trying out" he says, cupping my face in both hands and placing a big dramatic smooch on my lips.

"Should we order your favorite?" he offers, pulling up the food delivery app we tend to use. "You don't wanna pick this time?" I ask, remembering that I was the one who chose last time.

"No it's okay you had a bad day so you can pick this time. I'll just choose the next two times we order out" he says and I nod my head. "Sounds fair. Just please, don't pick anything weird again" I cringe, remembering the last time we tried something new.

"Hey! I liked those vegan shrimp burgers" he says, crossing his arms over his chest making me laugh at his pouting face. "Whatever you say Honey. Now hurry up and put your order in too I'm starving" I admit, remembering that I skipped lunch.

"You didn't lunch today huh?" he says, reading my thoughts as soon as they pop in my head. "I swear you're some kind of mindreader" I say, walking past him to get finally get that water that had been promised to me on my own.

As soon as I turn on the faucet I'm granted a slap on the ass making me yelp from the surprise of it. "What was that for?" I groan rubbing the tender flesh and he giggles pulling me in for a kiss running his hands down my back before resting on my ass giving it a squeeze.

"I told you if you wear those little pajama shorts around the house I can't be held accountable for my actions" he smiles against my lips and I hum into the kiss when he pulls me in a bit closer.

"Mmm nope I'm too tired and hungry" I say, pulling away from the kiss and he tries to chase my lips but I turn my face to the side so he ends up kissing me on the cheek instead.

He kisses my cheek a few times but then when I think he's finished he licks a long stripe from my jaw to my cheek bone and it try to wiggle out of his hold but he's got an iron grip around my waist.

"Ew you weirdo let go of me" I say squirming while he laughs, thoroughly enjoying my reaction. "Aw come on I thought I was Daddy tonight" he says, switching to ticking my sides now, no doubt a distraction and a thorough effort in keeping me from getting upset again.

"Okay okay fine Daddy please s-stop" I call out, still trying to get away from his poking and prodding and when he finally lets go I run to the other side of the room to make sure he can't get ahold of me again and just when I think I'm safe he's tackling me down onto the sofa.

"Okay okay I give up you win!" I say, hoping that this tactic will get him to leave me alone. "What do I win?" he asks, amusement written all over his face and when I lean in to whisper all kinds of naughty things in his ear his face goes from amused to seductive real quick.

"Oh yeah?" he rasps and I nod my head and he gets off of me and pulls me up by my hands and starts to try to pull me upstairs. "No no no I didn't say right now! We've got food on the way!" I say trying to remind him of what we've been waiting for this whole time he's been playing.

"Come on they won't be here for like another fifteen minutes" he argues and as soon as he completes his sentence the doorbell is ringing leaving him groaning at the contradiction to his claims.

"See I told you!" I tease while he walks over and opens the door to get the food and thank the driver.

"Yes! Come on let's eat!" I say grabbing one of the bags and rushing over to the kitchen table and start pulling the food out.

"Well I guess I know where your loyalties lie" he sighs and trudges over to the table. "Oh come on you crybaby. First eat this and then you can eat me later if you want to" I taunt and his eyes light up at the though and I swear I can see him drooling.

"Deal!" he says and we spend the rest of the night laughing and loving until the sun comes up. What did I do to get so lucky? No matter how long we've been together that is always my last thought before I go to bed and the first thought I have when I wake up next to him in the morning.

Our relationship might not be the most conventional but I wouldn't have it any other way.

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[tiredofthehumanlife]

Lakeside naps

Barbie dolls: Peacekeeper! Coriolanus x gn!Covey!Reader

Word: 6.4k

Summary: you get nightmares after the games all Abt your mentor dying in front of you and when you catch a glimpse of him in the crowd you freak

Warnings: nightmares, death, blood, guns, the games™️, uh private snow is like chill with ppl seeing him with a covey bc I'm too lazy to write that conflict, before coryo loses his shit so he still has friends, him and Lucy Gray are besties in the in-law sense, you and the Covey are tight, 🤞besties for the resties, you scratch yourself on oopsies so like accidental self harm ig idk man, panic attacks and trauma kinda, nausea mentioned, you play an instrument now cuz you're Covey, yeah that's it

You hadn't thought of life after the Games when your name was called. You decided right then and there, that was the sound of your name getting etched into a gravestone. The stone your family would all surround and leave brightly colored flowers on.

You shakily made it up to the stage not daring to meet anyone's eyes. Standing next to the mayor you stared at all the faces of the Covey watching you in horror.

A scream to the left shocked you out of your self-pity. You looked over to see a man you knew always dropped something in your basket at the Hob pulling a thrashing Maude Ivory back into the crowd. She wasn't nearly old enough to have her name in the drawing, thank the stars. She yanked and pulled at the man, trying to run towards you. You hated being a whim to your nature, but you still cried out her name in response. Maude Ivory paused her movements, holding still in the man's arms. Two peacekeepers noticed all the hustle and bustle, holding onto your arms to pull you away. 

“I’ll be okay! I'll be fine! Just keep singing, baby! Keep your head high!” You screamed at Maude Ivory. You struggled against the hold of the Peacekeepers.

You weren't sure if you've ever hated the Capitol more than in that moment. With Lucy Gray pushing people out of the way to pull Maude Ivory from the man's arms and hold Maude to her rainbow dress. With Peacekeepers’ fingers digging into the skin of your arm. With the guarantee of your death pinned to your shirt as you were now a tribute. With all the struggle you put in to make it where you were now, thrown out the window for a little Capitol enjoyment. 

In the moment it all seemed bleak. Later in the arena it was still really fucking bleak but you knew you had at least one person in your corner. Your mentor, Coriolanus. With each moment of the game, you kept the Covey and home out of your head. You couldn't bear to think of what they were feeling if they got to reach the TV signal. You didn't think about what it would be like to go home. You thought of him. Thankfully he was rather attractive so thinking about him wasn't anything difficult.

When you won, you thought of him more. He saved your life, technically. Coriolanus cheated for you, you knew that. Holding the compact in your hands was enough evidence of that. You didn't know what that meant for him but you knew one thing. You got to go home. On the travel back to 12, you thought of everything. 

You thought of your home, though a little shabby it was better than most people in District 12 had. It was warm with the love of all your family. You couldn't wait to get back into some clean bright clothes and sing on stage again.

You thought of how Maude Ivory would lose her mind. You thought of how CC would show you all the cool things he scavenged, fun feathers, shiny rocks, and a bottle cap from thirty years ago he found in the mud. At least that's what you would imagine he found in the time you were gone. You thought of Barb Azure sitting you down and telling you of all her romantic drama that you missed. You thought of Tam Amber pulling you into a hug. He didn't need to tell you anything you just needed to be held in your family's arms for a few minutes. You thought of Lucy Gray rattling on about all the songs she had been working on. 

You thought of Coriolanus. What happened to him? Did he get caught? Was he already getting ready for University? Was he thinking of you? Did you mean as much to him as he meant to you? Did he even really care that you won besides the fact that it meant he won, too? He was so hard to get a read on. You gave up on trying to figure out what happened to him. Your life in the Capitol was over and therefore any relationships that spawned from it were over, romantic or not. 

When you did get home, you got the warmest welcome you could've ever imagined. The sky was clear thankfully, you worried about the rain soaking through your clothes. The rain must've noticed how important this day was for you because it held back its downpour.

When you stomped up the wooden steps, knocking on the door like it wasn't your own home, you heard yelling. The first one out the door was Maude Ivory. She came barreling towards you, her arms in the air and a laugh radiating off her body. You quickly scooped her up and hugged her tightly. She relaxed in your arms, letting out a muffled cry into your shirt. 

“I told you I'd be fine, didn't I?” you asked. You were lying when you told her that over her screams. Now you were going to say it was just intuition. You'll take credit for that. Maude Ivory pulled back and wiped at her face. She nodded. 

“Yes. I'm so glad you're back.” She whispered pulling on your dirty clothes. You worried there was still blood somewhere on them but the sound of a herd of feet rushing through the house washed away your worries. 

You heard the back screen door slam its wooden frame against the wall. By the footsteps of the runner, you could tell it was Barb Azure making her way around the wrap-around porch. She crashed into you soon after, flinging you to the wooden planks. You laughed on the ground, hugging her back. You both sat up as she started speaking a mile a minute about how happy she was to see you again. You ignored the pain in the back of your head from crashing, much more concerned with the growing appearances of your family. 

CC and Tam Amber were next, falling to their knees and scooting closer to you. Tam Amber pulled you into a hug just like you knew he would. CC was tugging on your arm in excitement. You couldn't catch up to his words but you caught ‘rock’, ‘actually a geode’, ‘bright blue’, and ‘fluffy’. You didn't bother trying to come up with the meaning. 

Lucy Gray was last, dropping her guitar to the ground a little too hard in your opinion. She pulled you into a tight hug, kissing all over your head and clutching you to her chest. You laughed and pulled away, holding your arms out to all of your family's bright eyes. You couldn't imagine being happier than when you were held in a giant group hug from them all. 

Your first night back you couldn't sleep, like your body weren't sure if you were out of the arena yet. Lucy Gray stayed up with you, trying to lull you to sleep with songs.

It didn't work until the third night. You had clutched onto her tight she didn't even bother trying to leave your bed. Lucy Gray stopped her song when your breathing was slow and you stopped wiggling around. She fell asleep holding you to her chest and she felt a stone leave her shoulders at the thought of you finally being comfortable back home. 

That was the first night you realized you were never leaving the Games. You might be out of the arena but your mind would always have that stain of blood on it.

The colorful snakes were wrapping around your body, holding you to a chair. You gasped as one started to wrap around your throat. It started to tighten as a light turned on the other side of the room.

There he was, your mentor Coriolanus tied to a chair. He flung his head up, his hair falling out of place and his red uniform dissolved as he thrashed against the restraints. Your hands flashed to the snake around your throat as a gun pressed to his temple. You tried to scream and pull away but you weren't successful, the snakes pulled on your skin and cut off your air supply. You were positive you were going to have bruises if you managed to survive. You couldn't even gasp with the snake around your neck tightening more. As the snake opened its mouth and lunged to bite your neck the gun went off. 

You screamed as you sat up in the bed, trying to scramble away from Coriolanus’ headless body and the snakes. Lucy Gray bolted up from the mattress, searching for the trouble around the room. You hit your head on the wall as you kept pushing yourself back, pulling at the snakes around your arms and neck. Your hands came back empty. 

“Off! Get them off! Help Lucy Gray! Please! Get them off me!” You screamed continuing to pull at the colorful scales. Lucy Gray reached out and pulled your hands away, cupping your face. 

“There's nothing on you, you're safe. You're not in the arena. It's okay.” Lucy Gray said. Your breath came back to your lungs as you came into your surroundings again. Coriolanus’ brains weren't splattered on your wall. There were no snakes. You were home in your bed.

Lucy Gray scooted next to you and pulled your head to her chest. You clutched onto her as you slowly came back into your body. Your cheeks were wet and your arms and throat were stinging. When you glanced down at your arms you realized you had scratched yourself in efforts to pull the snakes off. Lucy Gray started humming and rocking you back and forth. You sighed against her, impossibly glad you were home. 

“He died.” You whispered. Even if it was a part of your nightmare it doesn't mean it was any less plausible. The Capitol was bloodthirsty, if they found out about what he did for you he'd be dead in seconds. Lucy Gray tutted and rubbed your shoulder. 

“No, no. He's just fine. Up in the Capitol, getting ready for the University of his dreams. He's not in any trouble. You don't need to worry about him, that was just your dream.” Lucy Gray said, dropping a kiss to the top of your head. You knew she had absolutely no idea whether or not Coriolanus was okay but his words still helped soothe your heart. You wiped at your face while staying in her hold. The bedroom door flung open and Lucy Gray’s humming stopped. The rest of the Covey were dressed in their pajamas, each with their own weapon. 

Tam Amber was wielding a pan. He looked around the room, swishing it around like he could catch the offender off guard. Barb Azure must’ve followed him to the kitchen to find a weapon because she was holding a knife at her side. CC had his hands raised up like a ninja, hopping around the room in a strange stance. Maude Ivory was holding a stray guitar string between her hands. You wondered if she thought of using it as a garrote and if so where did she get that idea? 

“It was just a nightmare, you all can go back to sleep.” You said, watching as they all dropped their shoulders in relaxation. Maude Ivory dropped one side of the string. She stepped closer to the bed, staring at you severely. 

“Was it about the Capitol?” She asked. You nodded, feeling another wave of tears choke on the back of your throat. Maude Ivory sighed. 

“I’m okay now Maude, just go back to bed.” You reassured, pulling away from Lucy Gray. You just needed Maude Ivory to go to sleep already. She gets grumpy without enough sleep. Maude Ivory shook her head and climbed up into the bed with you. Barb Azure went around the group, collecting their weapons, and left the room. CC and Tam Amber ventured closer to the bed, like slowly inching toward a wounded and scared dog. Maude Ivory pulled you into a hug. 

“I just want you to be okay, I wish they never sent you into that stupid Capitol.” Maude Ivory said into your shoulder. You returned the hug. You shouldn’t feel guilty for scaring Maude Ivory. You still do. You hummed and pressed your cheek against the top of her messy hair. 

“I’ll be okay, sweetheart. My brain is just scared because it thinks I’m still there. I’ll be okay.” You said, petting down the knot of hair at the back of her head. You should start braiding her hair before bed this is a hot mess. Maude Ivory hums and pulls back slightly. CC stood in front of you reaching his hand out for you. You held onto it. 

“Are you sure? You can talk to us. Promise, you can tell us anything.” CC said. If the arena was different, if your choices were different, if being a tribute was something entirely different than it was, you could’ve shared. It’s not as simple as that. Telling a 12 and 8-year-old you helped in the murder of children, just isn’t the same as telling them you had a bad dream about getting eaten by a shark. You can’t tell CC that though, instead giving him a smile and nodding. Barb Azure joined the informal family gathering with no weapons this time. 

“I’m fine, CC. I just made a friend while I was there and I had a bad dream he got hurt, that's all. I’m okay.” You assured, rubbing your thumb over the back of his hand. CC wasn’t nearly as skeptical as Tam Amber. CC smiled and accepted your answer. Tam Amber raised an eyebrow at you, crossing his arms over his body. Barb Azure noticed the twist of the attitude in the air. 

“Okay come on, kiddos. We have a big day tomorrow. Time to get to bed.” Barb Azure said, shooing CC and Maude Ivory out of the room to their shared room. There were only three bedrooms so it was usual to share. You and Lucy Gray shared, your beds on either side of the room. Lucy Gray had joined you in yours after the first night of insomnia. Tam Amber and Barb Azure shared. As Tam Amber stared you down, you wished he was a heavier sleeper. Barb Azure joined the room again, saying CC and Maude Ivory were tucked into bed. Tam Amber sat down on the bed next to you, taking your hand into his and staring at you. Barb Azure sat on the ground in front of you, looking up at you. 

“Tell us, everything. If you have to carry the weight of the Games, so do we. Maybe CC and Maude get to stay ignorant but we don’t. If it hurts you this way we need to know in order to help.” Tam Amber said. You sighed and leaned into his side.

Lucy Gray, Barb Azure, and Tam Amber all listened intently as you told them everything. Step by step. Every detail you could remember. Every single detail. By the end of it, Barb Azure was pressing a hand to her mouth to keep her nausea down. Lucy Gray was holding your arm to her chest like she was scared her name was about to get called. Tam Amber had hidden his head behind your shoulder. 

It took a lot of strength but you were so glad you shared. It made the weight easier. You could breathe a little easier. They were all supportive of you.

Maude Ivory and CC were helpful in their childish and innocent ways. It helped you see the light of your situation. Sure maybe you were a murderer but your cousins would’ve been devastated if you had died.

Tam Amber understood when you just wanted to be quiet, not alone, just quiet. You’d both sit in comfortable silence. Silence was rare with Covey around but the others stayed quiet when they passed by the silent room. Maude Ivory even tiptoed.

Barb Azure understood when you just needed to think about something else, talking animatedly about all the drama and gossip floating around town. All her troubles and simple things to keep your thoughts on something else.

Lucy Gray knew all the messy parts of life after the Games. The nightmares, the cries, the screams, all the pain. Tam and Barb knew too of course but not like her. She held you through the nightmares, singing to relax you. She’d take you out to the meadow to let you scream, throw rocks, and kick trees. She comforted you when your foot hurt from kicking trees. 

Finally, the Covey got their gig at the Hob back. Really you never lost it but apparently, the rest of the Covey couldn’t handle singing on a stage without your presence.

You felt like you were getting back into your life when you stepped up onto the stage. The band felt lively as everyone’s sounds were harmonizing again. You were so happy your talent with your instrument didn’t disappear with the stability of your mind and innocence. Your smile returned and you felt at home. More than you did when your family knocked you to the wooden planks of your front porch.

As you played your instrument with your whole heart glad you were back in with the band. All the sounds of your family playing a sound that made the audience dance along. You stuck to Tam Amber’s side, glad he floated towards the back wall. Not that you didn’t trust your back with your family but the anxiety from that stupid arena made you feel like someone might sneak up behind you. You moved along with the song, a slight dance in your step as you kept playing. Tam Amber gave you a smile, glad to see you comfortable. 

You returned the smile, looking away from him to drag the smile to the audience’s faces. You kept your slight dance, a bob really.

The audience was always a mixture of all kinds of people. Starving miners who just want to get drunk and dance, mothers and fathers with sleeping kids at home keeping their drinks down to a minimum, and even some peacekeepers from the base on the edge of town. You glanced around at the faces.

You saw the man who held back Maude Ivory, smiling as bright as you’ve ever seen him. He was probably happy to see the whole Covey family together again. You saw two peacekeepers dance with each other, laughing loudly even if their steps are messy. A woman was tap dancing in the corner. You would’ve laughed at that but you were just glad she was happy tap dancing in worker boots on dirt floors. Your smile grew as you saw your home dancing around to the music you were making. As you looked over at another group of people, your eyes snagged on a familiar face. 

He was bobbing up and down. His head was shaved and his lips were trying to smother the smile on his face. He wasn’t in his red uniform anymore, instead casual clothes you knew the peacekeepers were issued. Even with all the changes you knew it was him.

Coriolanus saw you and gave you a small smile. You didn’t smile back, your hands stalling on your instrument. Him being here could only mean one thing. No, two things. No, too many things.

He was dead and haunting you for technically being the reason for his death. He actually wasn’t there and you have officially lost your mind. You were hallucinating. He was here to get revenge on you for being the reason he got banished to District 12. The Games were still on no matter which one it was. 

Your smile and instrument fell at the same time. You gasped for air as you felt the walls closing in on you. He was coming to kill you. Everyone else in the crowd was on his side. You ducked down behind Tam Amber, pressing your palms into your ears to stop the rapid heartbeat ringing in them.

Tam Amber ditched the tune he was plucking out, squatting next to you and shielding you from the audience. He rubbed your back, whispering in your ear all the things Lucy, Barb, and Tam realized helped ground you. Your name. Your family’s names. Your home. Your current location, and simple reassurances that calmed your breathing.  

As your breathing came back to you, you noticed how there was no music behind you. Your name was being yelled over and over again by someone off to the side. The crowd’s laughter and enjoyment had been deduced to murmurs.

You lifted your head and looked around you. Your back was to the audience and your entire family was staring at you with concern. Their song was left behind, your health is more important than keeping the audience entertained. You furrowed your eyebrows at the yells to your side. It wasn’t your family, they were all whispering reassurances. You pulled yourself onto your knees, looking over Tam Amber’s head to find the voice. Coriolanus was pawing at the edge of the stage, calling your name so many times it started to lose its meaning. 

Worry was etched into his face, staring at you like he just watched you get stabbed. You ducked back into the huddle of Covey colors. You started muttering to yourself about the dangers. You’ve definitely lost your marbles. You started to lose track of your breathing again, getting worked up over his hidden plans. You lunged and latched onto Lucy Gray’s shoulders, startling her. 

“He’s going to kill me. He’s here for revenge. Gutted like a fish, gutted gutted. I killed him, he’s haunting me.” You felt like you were wrapped up in another nightmare, tugging at the snakes around your throat again. Tam Amber and Barb Azure latched onto your hands, stopping you from scratching anymore. Lucy Gray gripped onto your cheeks holding you steady. 

“He is not going to hurt you. He saved you remember? You’re not in the Games, you survived. You’re home. You’re in the Hob. Remember?” Lucy Gray asked, taking your hand and pressing it against the wooden stage in District 12. Not the concrete covered in blood in the Capitol.

You took in a deep breath, feeling every set of eyes on you. Maybe they should all see this. Watch you lose your shit so they remember the Games are nothing to enjoy. Not that many people from 12 cared much for them anyway. Your eyes snapped over to Coriolanus. 

Would a vengeful spirit look so concerned over your pain? You doubted it. You didn’t dare stumble to your feet, the chance of falling far too high. Your head was still light from the lack of oxygen. You slowly started to crawl towards the edge of the stage, leaving your huddle of Covey warmth to venture towards the possibility of the real Coriolanus Snow in front of you.

Coriolanus jumped over the lip of the stage, inching towards you on the wooden panels. You stopped halfway there, letting him come to you. He slowed as he reached you, holding his hand out like an offering. You wrapped it in yours, making sure he wasn’t a ghost or hallucination, or what have you. Coriolanus took this as a good sign, sliding across the floor to saddle up next to you. He watched as you pulled your attention to his face. You reached out and held onto his cheek. Coriolanus leaned into it before he could stop himself. 

“Are you alright?” He whispered. You shook your head in disbelief as your hand traveled from his cheek to his eyebrow, nose, hairline, and lips. You pulled your fingertip over the both of them, resting in on his chin. 

“Are you real?” You muttered back, watching his lips to see if they didn’t move right. Coriolanus let out a laugh at that, showing his teeth at you. 

“Yes, I am.” He said, gently tapping your jawline, making you tilt your chin up. You shook your head, it couldn’t make less sense. He was Capitol through and through, there was no way he would set that down for District 12. 

“Why are you here? You’re supposed to be getting ready for university in the fall?” You ask, reaching out for his face again. You held on to the sides of his head, running them back to run over his incredibly short hair. Coriolanus smiled at you, tilting his head back with your hands. 

“They caught me cheating. They sent me to 8 but I made them send me here. I could see you then, at least that's what I hoped. Here you are.” He said, pulling your hands away from his head and holding them to his chest. You frowned. 

“So now you’re stuck as a peacekeeper for what? 15? 20? 25 Years? All because you wanted to get that prize, you lost it.” You pressed your lips into a thin line and tried to hold back the guilt you felt. He shook his head, bringing your hands to his lips. He kissed each of your knuckles. 

“I didn’t lose anything. I wanted you to win, to live. I’m holding you in my hands right now, alive and well. All things considered, I’ve won.” Coriolanus said, pulling you closer to him. You shook your head. 

“I don’t know about the 'well' part. I’m not exactly adapting well to life outside the arena.” You said, glancing over at your family staring at you. Watching your every move in case of a call for help. You gave them a small smile. Tam Amber raised an eyebrow. You nodded and the Covey moved to stand up. Lucy Gray made her way to the mic, making up a softer version of what was happening. 

“What! You? No way! That panic attack from just seeing me wasn’t a sign at all. Or a hit to my ego, to be perfectly frank.” Coriolanus joked. You snorted, knocking your head against his shoulder. 

“It was a bit of a shock. I miss your curls they were so pretty.” You said and dragged your hands over his buzz cut again. Coriolanus was smiling at you, letting you explore the new short hair. You shook your head and dropped your hands to his cheeks. 

“Do you hate it that much?” He asked, cupping your cheeks. You leaned into his palm, smiling at the contact. 

“No, no. I like it. You came to 12, for me?” You asked, catching up to his words. Coriolanus nodded. 

“Why?” You asked. Coriolanus pulled his hands away from your face, resting on your forearms. Coriolanus’ smile faltered. He gave you a half-shrug, looking away from your face. 

“I care for you. I want to keep you safe and stay with you.” Coriolanus said, tightening his hold on your arms. You wrapped your arms around him, pressing your ear to his chest to listen to his heartbeat. 

“I’m glad you’re here, I missed you.” You whispered into his shirt. Coriolanus hugged you back. Eventually, you pulled apart and you left the emptying Hob. Apparently the mess of your outburst and a peacekeeper hugging a Covey? Well, that’s unheard of.

You were shocked when the town seemed to stay quiet about the whole thing. Not silent, you weren’t sure they could do that. Quiet.

When you went into town to pick up some groceries with Lucy Gray, plenty of passersby stopped to ask if you were feeling any better. One even said he hoped you and your peacekeeper friend were both doing okay. ‘What a reunion! Hope he made it back to the base before curfew. See and that’s-‘ and then he started a rant about how strange youngins and military rules were. You were finally able to slip away from the conversation after saying you heard someone calling you. 

As you stared at the produce counter, deciding which vegetables you should get, someone joined you at your side. You ignored them, still not sure which ones were worth the performances the Covey had to put on in order to get this money. 

“Personally I’d get the potatoes, but tomatoes always add a nice garnish to things.” You’d recognized the voice a thousand miles away. You looked at him, smiling just at the sight of him. 

“Why Private Snow, don’t you have duties to attend to?” You joked, handing over a few coins for three potatoes. You added them to your bag, walking away from the stand. Just as you expected, Coriolanus followed after you. 

“Oh no it’s a free day. I’m just supposed to stay with Sejanus. We have to adhere to the buddy system. It’s ridiculous.” Coriolanus shook his head at the annoyance. You spotted Lucy Gray at a stand of her own. It was about time for you two to go anyway. You looked back at Coriolanus, ignoring every word that came from his mouth. 

“There’s a lake. Really only Covey knows about it. What do you think of you and your buddy joining us next weekend?” You glance over his shoulder to watch Sejanus make conversation with Lucy Gray. Coriolanus sucked in a breath. Your eyes shot to him, waiting to see if he’d say no. 

“I think there’s nothing more I’d like to do next Sunday.” He answered. You nodded and hid the evergrowing grin on your face. You cleared your throat. 

“Great, I am very casual about this whole ordeal.” You said, starting to inch away from him. Coriolanus puffed his chest out. 

“Oh yeah. Me too. So casual. Won’t be thinking about you before I go to sleep tonight at all.” Coriolanus responded, clasping his arms behind his back. He nodded like he was agreeing at a business meeting. You hummed. 

“Oh yeah, yeah. No, I would never in a million years think of you in my free time. Never, not once have I done that. Much less before bed in the hopes of good dreams, please your ego is so big I’m choking on it.” You waved your hand in your face, pretending to push away his ego to breathe. Coriolanus didn’t even bother hiding the smile on his face as you both backpedaled away from each other. 

“Sunday.” He responded, already metaphorically foaming at the mouth to get to that lake. You nodded, heading off in the direction of Lucy Gray. 

“Sunday.” 

And there he was on Sunday. Once you saw the edge of the lake, you were dropping your items left and right, racing Maude Ivory for the water. You lost but you beat CC so you accepted it. Coriolanus joined you seven in the water, splashing you all.

When he resurfaced, looking around for you, you splashed him in the face. Coriolanus sputtered and wiped his face with his hand before lunging at you. He pulled you from the water before flinging you back into the waves from his splash, making you scream. As you splashed under the water his hands reached for your body, pulling you back towards the surface. You laughed once you got the water off your face.

Coriolanus pulled you closer, your body moving easily with the help of the lake. He pressed your body against his. He wrapped his arms around you, pulling his chin over your shoulder. You hummed and leaned into him. Coriolanus pressed his lips against the side of your neck as he hooked his arm over your shoulder.  

When your fingers got pruney, you and Coriolanus pulled yourselves from the water. Maude Ivory complained that you were a party pooper and CC splashed her in response.

You and Coriolanus dried out in the sun, laying on top of a sheet you dragged along with you to the lake. Coriolanus pressed you against him, holding on like you might disappear into the wind if he let go. Your head was resting on top of his chest. You held onto his wrist that was thrown onto your shoulder, keeping your fingers on his pulse. He intertwined your fingers with his other hand. The steady beat under your fingertips reminded you that he was alive and this wasn't a dream. It wasn't going to rabidly twist into a nightmare before you could catch up. 

“I have nightmares every night.” You whispered. You just needed to get it off your chest before he started to wonder. You hoped he heard it because if the Covey and Sejanus splashing in the water was too loud, you didn't think you'd be able to repeat it. Coriolanus dropped the hand he was holding, rubbing your cheek instead. Coriolanus hummed in acknowledgment, giving you the time to continue. You pressed your fingers into his pulse harder, needing it to be louder than just a soft whisper of a beat under your fingers.

“I watch you die every night, Coriolanus.” You added. Maybe this could ease some of the questions you knew he was holding back.

No one reacts to seeing their (lover?) friend like that after not seeing them for weeks. No one starts crying and rocking themselves back and forth just from a look.

Coriolanus started at that, pulling his leg up like he wanted to get up and start punching the nightmares. His hand on your face stalled and waited in the air. As the moment of silence turned into two, you wondered if you overstepped somehow. You sat up, rolling over onto your stomach so you could look at his face. He sat up on his elbows. Coriolanus met your eyes, an unreadable look on his face. 

He reached out with one hand and held onto yours, holding onto it tight. You gave him time, like he’d given you. Coriolanus sighed. 

“I’m not going anywhere. I'm not dying anytime soon, I'm not leaving you. You're okay. That arena was horrific but we're not there anymore. You're all in one piece and I'm going to take care of you. In the arena, I couldn't be there, only from behind the screen. I'm not going anywhere now, I can protect you now. Do you understand?” Coriolanus asked, raising his eyebrows and staring at you severely. You hummed and leaned your forehead against his. 

“I understand.” You whispered back. Coriolanus dropped your hands and cupped your cheeks, pulling you away from his forehead. He tilted his head and leaned closer before stopping and watching you intently. You leaned into him, pressing your lips against his.

Coriolanus pulled you closer by your back. He held onto the side of your face, humming against your mouth. You were warm and made him want to hide in your arms forever. You held onto the back of his neck. Coriolanus licked at your bottom lip. You would've opened your mouth for him if you didn't want to scar your cousins in the lake just a few feet away. Instead, you pulled away, much to Coriolanus' disdain. You kissed both corners of his mouth, patting his cheeks. Coriolanus pulled at your wrist, taking your hand to his lap and intertwining your fingers. 

You both settled back down on the sheet. Lucy Gray left the water and laid out in the dock to dry off. She watched as you relaxed into Coriolanus, shutting your eyes. Lucy Gray wanted you to get more sleep but with sleep came the promise of nightmares. At least you were in the woods so your terror would go unnoticed by the few neighbors you did have. 

Once Lucy Gray was fully dry she made her way over the sheet. The Covey’s clothes were laid out and folded into piles for each person. She smiled at your care and pulled her stack away. Lucy Gray looked up at you to thank you, you were still asleep. You had a small smile on your face and Lucy Gray hoped it would stay. Coriolanus turned his head to face her, raising an eyebrow. 

“Are we leaving soon? Let me wake-” Lucy Gray quickly shook her head. 

“No. No. Don't, they need their rest. I'm not sure if they've slept this long without a nightmare waking them up since the Games. We can stay a little longer.” Lucy Gray said, pulling her dress back on. 

As you continued to snooze, the Covey got more and more tired. They all left the water, drying out on the dock. Or CC’s case, running around and shaking like a dog. Eventually, they all made it back into their clothes.

Something about you snoozing away on Coriolanus’ chest seemed so inviting. Maude Ivory tucked herself under your arm, pressing her head to Coriolanus' chest as well. Tam Amber laid down on the edge of the blanket, keeping a hand on your calf like you might run away. Sejanus laid next to Coriolanus, giving him a thumbs up at you and Coriolanus snuggling. CC leaned his head against your side, kicking his legs out at Tam Amber. Tam Amber swatted them away, making CC laugh. Barb Azure shushed him and joined Sejanus on the side. She reached over and held onto your free hand, the other one preoccupied with Coriolanus'. Lucy Gray sat behind you, watching the lake. Coriolanus' hand rubbed your back as you slept away. Coriolanus turned his head to look at Lucy Gray. 

“Do you always sleep like meerkats, piling on top of each other?” Coriolanus whispered. Lucy Gray shook her head. 

“No.” 

“Yes.” 

Lucy Gray and Barb Azure shared a glance at their opposing views. Coriolanus smacked his lips in acceptance. He wasn't getting an answer but at least he was sort of included. You were sleeping on him and therefore everyone trying to get closer to you was getting closer to him. He understood why you would do it, it was so warm and he was positive he's never felt this loved before. 

When you woke up, it was quiet and gentle. You looked around and smiled at the pile. You turned around and grinned at Lucy Gray. You held up a thumbs up. 

Maybe it was the pile, Coriolanus, his words, the exhaustion from splashing in the water, or some other secret things but you slept without a nightmare. When you went to bed that night it wasn't nearly as scarring. It was just you and Coriolanus on the lakeside. 

[miraclecherryblossomsblog]

"Protect what you regret"

I actually had this idea reinforced by my brain when it kept telling me mean stuff (one of those weeks u know :/ )

tw mental breakdown, anxiety, wukong being wukong, angst to happy ending, devotion, pls dont expect it to be good ok, idk shi about story telling but i'll do my best here, shits long again

This would be one of the breaking points for Ane, being stressed about having to adapt in a fictional world with no logical sense, survive the millions of fucking yaoguai's who only see her as a easy snack and dealing with a rude ass monkey that had the ego bigger than a mountain (hehe)

That and missing her family, feeling the more they go into this path the more fruitless it becomes for her. Would she even make it to the final point of their travel or die in the hands of monsters

Her anxiety was getting her to the point she couldn't sleep, dreams of past encounters would jump back into her memory and torment her.

Wukong starts to take notice of how much quiet she has become, note that in this point of the story Wukong considers Ane a friend he can annoy and tease in the asshole way (not romance yet)

So he goes and does what he does best, annoy her until she tells him what's up with her, however.....the way that he approached the situation althought it did get her to spill the beans it happen in way that was.... he kinda disregarded her feelings a bit and well

It didn't go well. His name calling made her lose it and she screamed her frustrations at him, insulting him in both her languages, not letting him even speak as she screamed her anger at him

This was new to him, usually she would just get cranky at him which would just amuse him, finding her distress funny but she would later just let it go (not really she just would shut up about it, she tends to hold grudge but she knew she couldn't afford to so she just left it there)

She was so done with his bullshit that she couldn't care less whether her words hurted him, the most shocking part was when even after he tried to dismiss her words she didn't hesitate.

That's right folks the monke got slapped.

It didn't hurt him ofc but the shock was too big. His eyes wide doing nothing as she continued screaming at him, daring him to hit her, telling him she couldn't care less if she killed her in the spot. Here sandy was already prepping himself in case wukong DID act up but... he didn't.

Her eyes were probably the most hurtful part for wukong because for once he really noticed the emotion in them...Anger, fear, sadness, he could see them all around her irises, her body language, her words.

Even after she stomped away as he could only watch, once he got over his shock his brows furrowed, his fist clenched and the ground shaked, letting a loud growl he jumped away not hearing the rest of the crew call to him as he flew with his cloud away.

Sandy looked for Ane while pigsy stayed with the monk, Tang watching in worry as not one but two of his disciples went off their ways.

It was that time away when Wukong started to recall the fight she had with her and started to reflect on himself and ironically it was Ane's anger that started to make him realize his feelings for her, it was her trying to avoid him after the fight that it made him want her closure, to complain to him, to look at him again....to please make those eyes that hold in her soul to look at him and forgive him

Its when the romance started, him trying everything to prove to her that he can be better, that he can change if she lets him in into her heart, he will beg if he must

He promises that she'll never have to feel fear again as he'll be her protector, promising her that if ever any of her hair strands is even touched he will burn down everything for her. To please smile at him again for not he would feel his heart crumble

It took Ane longer to figure out her own feelings and let her wall crumble but hey it worked didn't it <33

[german-enthusiast]

At the moment I’m doing an exchange year here in Germany, I’ve been here almost 2 months but I don’t feel my speaking skills has improved like I excepted. Don’t know if I’m doing something wrong, even if during the day I hear many new vocables they don’t leave a lasting impression on my brain (I don’t if that makes sense) and I’m feeling very often without words to express myself. Idk do you have any advice?

Hello!

I think you have to give yourself some grace. 2 Months is not the shortest of times, sure, but you moved to a different country where you probably knew nobody or only very few people. Arriving takes time, even without the language aspect! It took me a long while to feel I've arrived in my exchange year, much longer than it took to find a routine, to explore the area, to know my way around the school etc.

You say you're worried you're doing something wrong but there's no way to fail an exchange year! You're there to have an experience! To see a different place! To talk to different people! To figure out who you are away from the people and places you've grown up around!

Speaking is a very difficult part of learning a language, because it takes much more courage than the rest. Listening, reading, writing - they allow for more time and passive vocabulary is always bigger than active vocabulary (for natives too!). With speaking, you're bound to be misunderstood a hundred times, to mispronounce something, to forget words. But that is not a personal failure on your part. It's true for everyone learning a language, both one's mother tongue and any foreign language.

You hear a lot more German every day now and don't feel it's leaving a lasting impression - i think that's a very valid feeling but also to be expected. Children hear a million words everyday too, listen to the radio with their parents, see movies on tv, and still they'll still learn the meanings of words only seven, ten, fourteen years into being a person.

My advice would be

- continue trying. try try try, even if and because it will means you will make mistakes. making mistakes is how we learn

- stay curious about the language and words. if you don't understand something but think it is meaningful for you, take the time to understand it later (take a picture to look at later, ask a native about it, allow yourself to find meaning when you have the energy and time). Even if you feel you've "failed" in the moment, you can still learn later on!

- if a word you hear seems to be meaningful to you (meaning, you think it would be a good addition to your active vocabulary), investigate it. Ideally, ask someone to elaborate on it, give example sentences and common occurrences, explain nuances and thenYou use it. Make example sentences, look for where in your life that word might come up and verbalize that. Words move from passive to active vocabulary by being actively used often and thus staying at the ready for you to use.

- whenever you move to grab your phone and google a translation of a sentence or even just a word, stop yourself and try just one more time. Paraphrase, describe, gesture, build new words. If then you're understood and the person listening gives you the words you were missing, they have a pile of meaning to join in your head, probably anchoring them better than a translation out of a void would've. And if you're still not understood, the void is still there for you to help out.

that's all I've got right now but I already know I'll be thinking more about this.

You're welcome to reach out if you've got questions or just need someone to listen!

[s1m0nth3swaggy]

chat i saw someone make incorrect qoutes of Dead Boy Detectives and I wanted to try as well. I saved the best ones, these are awesome

Slight shipping of Niko and Crystal/ Edwin and Charles because these bitches gay

Edwin: You spent all our money on THIS?? Charles, putting tiny raincoats on ducklings: They live outside. They need this.

-

Charles: Life could be worse, Edwin. Edwin: Life could be a lot better too!

-

Niko: According to the footage here, you shook the vending machine and when the shake alarm went off, you punched the glass and broke it. Crystal: …I was hungry.

-

Edwin: I'm not a morning person. I'm barely even a person.

-

Edwin: Start talking! Charles: Well, I- Edwin: Shut up!

-

Niko: Anything else? Edwin: Yeah. Stay away from me! Niko: Alright. See you in the room we share.

-

Edwin: Wakey Wakey Eggs and Bakey! Monty: But I'm a vegan. Edwin: Wakey Wakey Vegetables and Sadness.

-

Edwin, entering the room: Sees Thomas (Cat King) and leaves Thomas (Cat King), watching Edwin leave: There’s my monthly dose of Edwin…

-

Crystal: When I said you should try being friendlier this isn't what I meant. Edwin, stirring a cup of tea aggressively: Oh, so now I'm TOO friendly? There's no pleasing you. Charles, who broke into their house an hour ago: Two sugars please. Edwin: Coming right up.

-

Charles: What’s up? I’m back. Niko: I literally saw you die. You died. You were dead Charles: Death is a social construct.

-

(they are in love your honor)

Crystal: Niko, what does IDK, ILY, and TTYL mean? Niko: I don’t know, I love you, talk to you later. Crystal: Alright, I love you too, I'll ask Edwin. Niko: Wait- Crystal, no-

-

Jenny: Crystal has discovered "deez nuts" jokes and it's all they say now. Everything is deez nuts. They simply can't stop. Jenny: I asked Crystal where they learned that joke. They made me promise they wouldn't get in trouble if they told me. I agreed. Jenny: So they lean in and whisper, "deez nuts."

-

Charles: That’s the longest worm I’ve ever seen. Edwin: That’s a snake.

-

Edwin: Someone’s trying to break in. Call the cops! Charles: loads shotgun I got this. Edwin: Last week you fell up the stairs, what do you mean-

-

Charles: What are your adjectives? Edwin: …You mean my pronouns? Charles: No, I know what your pronouns are! What are your adjectives? Edwin: …I dunno. What are yours? Charles: Noisy and chaotic! Edwin: I’ve never had something go from making no sense to making complete sense so quickly.

-

Jenny: I love sarcasm! It’s like punching people in the face, but with words!

-

(Charles being a little bitch i love him)

Monty: What are you two arguing about this time? Crystal: They’re always using common phrases incorrectly! Charles: Cry me a table, Crystal.

-

(after the whole "I wasn't talking about you" scene and when Monty was trying to annoy/ make Edwin jealous or smth)

Monty: You are a solid 11/10. Edwin: Aw, thank- Monty: Which is 1.1 because you look like shit.

-

(i need more niko and monty moments because im convinced they'd be besties)

Monty: makes Niko a cup of tea but puts salt in it Niko: sips tea Monty: Niko: finishes tea Monty: Didn't it taste bad? Niko: Yeah, but I didn't want to hurt your feelings so I drank it all. Monty, tearing up: Oh, okay.

-

Thomas (Cat King): I would say I outdid myself, but I’m always this good, so I simply did myself.

[e-pluribus-unum-e]

Haunted (1/?)

A/N#1: This is a Mattheo Riddle x OC fanfic, I did this just because I struggle with writing "Y/N" over and over again. I feel like an actual name for the reader helps you connect better, and I already struggle with being a personable writer. Please forgive me. The OC is named Veralynn Post, she goes by Vera. Idk her middle name yet so don't ask. She has long curly blonde hair, it reaches to her mid to lower back, it's also very poofy (think Hermione Granger). She has amber eyes, almost like whiskey and honey. She's 5'2 and a Hufflepuff. And she's from the US of A 🗽. It probably doesn't make sense why she's in a wizarding school in England but bare with me. Also I'll probably have smut in this at some point but that won't be until they're well into their 7th year.

Warnings: Angst, Fluff, Mattheo 🥵, my terrible writing, eventual smut but not until much later in the series

Pairing: Mattheo Riddle x Fem!OC

Summary: Vera's best friend finds herself in a whirlwind romance with none other than Theodore Nott. Vera reflects on her own love, how ever unrequited it is, and wonders when she'll finally confess to the man that holds her heart in his hands. 6.0k+ words

A/N#2: Dear Reader, Hello! This is the start of my very first attempt at a series LOL. I've written for my own enjoyment for years, but never on a blog or anything even similar to Tumblr. Last night at 2 AM I was hit with inspiration after hearing a series of songs play one after the other that reminded me so much of our baby boy Matty <3. So I have a timeline worked out and a list of songs I want to incorporate, one song per chapter, but that list is constantly changing because I'm trying to find the best ones possible to make this work. Also I'm starting them off in 6th year because yes, while they are minors, I need the time afforded to me by starting them off that young. No smut, NO SMUT, will happen before they're both well established 18 year olds in year 7. Please let me know how I can improve with my writing, it means a lot. It is my absolute pleasure to present you with the very first chapter in my Haunted series, When Emma Falls in Love. ---Sincerely, Me

When Emma Falls in Love

When Emma falls in love, she paces the floor Closes the blinds and locks the door When Emma falls in love, she calls up her mom Jokes about the ways that this one could go wrong She waits and takes her time 'Cause Little Miss Sunshine always thinks it's gonna rain When Emma falls in love, I know That boy will never be the same

Emma Hemlock is my best friend. I met her at Platform 9¾ on our first day at Hogwarts, and ever since then, we've been joined at the hip. With her dazzling blue eyes and her straight brown hair, her tan complexion, and her warm smile, she drew the boys' attention immediately. They would scramble to write her love letters, asking her on dates and whether or not she'd give them a chance. And she never said yes. Until, now.

Theodore Nott had been asking her out since 3rd year, always being met with a resounding "NO." He even asked me for advice!-- "C'mon Veralynn! What's her favorite flowers? Does she like butter beer? When does she-" "PISS OFF THEO"-- (spoiler alert: we didn't get along). But it seems he finally 'wore her down.'

That's such a terrible expression. At least, that's what Emma says. She explained that 'no, he didn't wear me down, I just finally had the courage to say yes.' Or something like that. In all honesty, her hesitation to say yes in the first place made sense. Theo had gained the reputation of a ladies' man, him and the rest of his crew. Draco Malfoy, Lorenzo Montague, Blaise Zabini, Pansy Parkinson, and Mattheo Riddle.

Mattheo.

A man who could simultaneously get my heart racing out of fear and attraction. Fear of him, fear of the attraction, attraction because of the fear, however, you want to put it I don't care. But we'll get back to him later. Right now, it's all about Emma and her love life.

Emma finally said yes to Theo's persistent nagging, making him quite literally the happiest man in all of Hogwarts. No seriously, he ran into the Great Hall shouting "SHE SAID YES! WE'RE GETTING MARRI- OW, DAMN IT VERA!" (I may have thrown a dinner plate at his head).

So here I am. Waiting, sitting on the couch in our dorm, my arms wrapped around a pillow as I sat on my legs, watching the door in anticipation. They started dating in the summer. Emma's family had decided to spend their two months break on vacation in Italy. They ran into the Nott's while they were there. I have a theory that Theo caught wind of where the Hemlock family would be that June, and he begged his parents to let him go spend the summer in their family villa.

All that being said, they had had a whirlwind romance that didn't end when the warmer months came to a close. It's only the second week of our 6th year and they've gone on a total of four dates. It's almost hilarious how utterly whipped Theo is for her. That boy will never be the same.

Creeeeak. The door was pushed open—interrupting my thoughts—and Emma slipped into the room. She locked the door behind herself, her face looking... oh that's weird. She paced across the floor, closing the blinds, effectively putting an end to the bright sun I was basking in. I had expected her to come in, huffing and annoyed with the latest story on Theo's escapades. But this time, no, this time was different. Her eyes held a different story. "Vera..." Her grip on the window loosened as she turned towards me. Her lip trembling, and her eyes squinting. Suddenly her face split into the widest grin she's ever given me. "Vera-" "I know." We smiled at each other, one sincere and one feigned.

"I need- I need to send an owl to my parents. I need to ask my mom- oh shit this has never happened to me before. Vera, what do I do? What is this?" She started rambling, all the while her smile remained and she ran over to her desk. She pulled out her stationary and began her letter to her mother. "Ughhh I shouldn't even be writing to her about this, it's going to end in disaster anyway!"

What made me chuckle was the way she said it. The words were foreboding, but her smile never slipped. She didn't really expect this to end in a 'disaster.' "Write your letter, Em. Tell your Momma you're falling in love." I encourage softly from where I remain seated, nuzzling my face further into the pillow between my arms. Emma nods at me, eyes crinkling yet again as she leans back over her letter.

Okay, sure, maybe I don't sound as excited as I should for my closest friend. That's not the case, I am excited for her! But now's the time when we finally get to talk about Mattheo.

Chocolate eyes, curls the color of rich dark dirt, dimples when he smiles, and the scent of cigarettes and rain that clings to him no matter where he's been. To be frank, the man is liquid fire. And everyone else in Hogwarts noticed that too. And he took advantage of that fact. He had a new girl on his arm almost every day, never coming up empty in the 'love department.' But it was never love. Everyone understood he was never and would never be interested in anything serious. The problem with this?

Well that requires a bit of explanation.

I met him the same day I met Emma. Before her, even. I had gotten lost in the muggle train station trying to find the right platform, getting bumped into by grown strangers who didn't seem to notice the lost little girl tripping under their feet. I was born and raised in America until being invited to Hogwarts, and unfortunately, my parents couldn't afford to come with me to this wild train station. So I was all alone, trying desperately to find my way to Platform 9¾.

~flashback to that day~

I huff, dragging my luggage behind me as I try my best to push through the crowd. I couldn't see many children, which gave me my first clue that I wasn't in the right place. It was mostly muggle adults going to and fro, not glancing down to notice the small poofy-haired kid all alone. My thoughts were interrupted as someone slammed into me, "OW" I cried as the luggage slipped from my fingers. It hit the pavement floor below my feet, buckles popping open as the contents spill out. I shake my head in disbelief, looking up to see who knocked into me. All I saw was the back of a grown man walking away from me, seemingly the culprit, and also seemingly ignoring the fact that he just ruined an 11-year-old's day. "Hey wanker, watch where you're going!" I jump, startled at the grumbling voice ringing in my ear.

That wasn't my voice. No, that was behind me. Turning around, I gaze upon—for the very first time—the boy who would turn my whole world upside down. He was wearing jeans, and an almost too-big-for-him flannel, his curls falling effortlessly over his forehead as he glared past me at the man who just Kool-Aided into my back.

His eyes flickered from over my shoulder to my belongings on the ground. Wordlessly, he crouched down and started folding up the clothes and slipping them back into my suitcase. "Oh- no no that's okay you don't have to- I mean- agh this is such a mess." I scramble, trying to stop him from helping any further. 'This is so embarrassing.'

I squat down next to him, working side by side to get everything packed away. His hands stopped moving at the sound of my own voice, his head turning toward me as he took in my appearance for the first time. "You're American?" "Uh-" I blush, distracted by his pretty frown. "-yeah." I finally answer, a bit dazedly. "Cool." He responded. We just sat there, chocolate eyes looking into amber, until the distant sound of a train's horn broke us out of our trance. "Riddle. Mattheo Riddle. Where are you headed?" The boy asked, sticking his hand out for me to shake.

"Oh! I'm Veralynn Post, um, you can call me Vera. Everyone does." His eyebrow raised at that. "E-Everyone back in my- HEY!" I gasp as he starts laughing. "I was just teasing you Anna, no need to fret. But seriously where are you headed?" He tried to quiet his chuckling as he lifts my bag from the ground, carrying it along with his (and refusing to let me take it off his hands).

I took out the letter in my pocket, looking at the information it contained. "Platform 9¾." He seemed to ponder that for a minute. "I don't think that exists..." My eyes widen. How could I be so stupid? He's a normal not-wizardy-boy and here I am, spilling all of Hogwarts beans to the first person who would listen. Maybe if I play it off like I'm a dumb tourist he'll just forget all about it. Wait- is he laughing? OH THIS BOY- "Man it's easy to trick you. Lighten up, Vera."

My blush deepens, but not out of embarrassment. No, I was mad. "That's not funny Mattheo, I'm genuinely lost and alone and you're laughing at me." He seemed to soften at that, his laughter quieting down. "I'm not laughing at you, I'm laughing with you." "I'm not laughing." "Hmm... touché." The way he said it made me want to punch him in the face.

Mattheo seemed to notice the anger in my eyes as he straightened up. "All jokes aside, I'm headed there too. We can walk together?" He offered, looking at me apologetically. "...fine, but no more teasing." "That's too high a price." "Fine," another huff from me, "you can tease if you want to but at least make it obvious you're not being serious."

His grin grew. "You're funny, Vera."

~end of flashback~

I met Emma when we got onto the train, and ever since then, I've had an unrequited crush and a best friend. Emma was everything I could have asked for; a dear friend, a confidant, and a sister. And I will always remember that day in fondness for when I met her, but alongside the sweet memories of a friendship comes the tainted recollection of a lost love.

Mattheo and I have remained friendly up to this very moment, as I watch Emma fall in love with his best friend, Theodore. But after I was sorted into Hufflepuff and he into Slytherin, we went our separate ways. Never being close but always painfully aware whenever he walked into the room. In his defense, it's not like he ignored me or anything. We were amicable with one another, just not in each other's core friend group.

The sad truth is, is that girls tripped over themselves because the kind boy I met seven years ago grew into Adonis reincarnate. They notice him because he's effortlessly good-looking and always seems to get great grades, even when he's constantly skipping class to smoke or make out with some girl in the broom closet.

His chiseled abs, strong jawline, and generally Greek-god-like physique (thank you Quidditch) made him a heart throb.

However, the female population of Hogwarts treat him like a piece of meat. Even though they're aware that he’ll cast them aside after just one night of being in his embrace, not only being aware but wanting it because no one really wanted to love him. Him. I've had to watch as everyone acted as if he really was just a carnal beautiful body and not a soul.

Sure, his core friend group (Pansy, Theodore, Blaise, Enzo, and Draco) didn't care about his looks. From what I've observed, they genuinely care about him. But after years of almost the entirety of Hogwarts not caring, I've noticed how it's worn on him.

And it's not just Hogwarts and their obsessive drooling over him, it's his home life. His father in Azkaban, his mother dead, his brother ignoring his existence. He had an abusive childhood and the roughest of up bringings. The very same women who will beg him for one night in his bed, turn around to gossip about how he's the next Voldemort.

So very few people cared about him.

And I've noticed how it's worn on him.

I've noticed lots of things.

I've noticed how when he walks through the food line, he never takes the last of anything, always leaving it for the person behind him. How he hangs behind after dinner to pick up the plates and trays our fellow students were too lazy to clean up themselves. I've noticed that whenever a girl in our year comes into class with bruises on her body, her boyfriend is in the infirmary the next day and there are cuts on Mattheo's knuckles. How he slips treats to the magical creatures when everyone's too busy listening to Hagrid's lecture to even notice the exchange. Everyone is too busy to notice, except for me.

I've spent my entire Hogwarts career falling in love with a boy, who grew into a man, all while I remained unnoticed.

I hang on to every word I hear him mutter to Theo, to every nod he sends my way as he walks past, and the rare time he asks me for my notes after he misses class.

So here we are, back in my dorm, watching my best friend's love life blossom before my eyes. Yes, I'm happy for her. But yes, I'm also, admittedly and ashamedly, jealous.

'Cause she's the kind of book that you can't put down Like if Cleopatra grew up in a small town And all the bad boys would be good boys If they only had a chance to love her And to tell you the truth, sometimes I wish I was her

I tried to listen as Cedric droned on, talking excitedly about this new book or muggle movie or something. To be honest, I've missed about 90% of what he's said. I slept roughly two hours last night, staying up to be Emma's sounding board. 'She really has fallen hard for this guy.' I think to myself as I glance across the Great Hall. Theo was sitting at his usual table, with the usual people. One of those people is Mattheo...

Mattheo laughed at something Enzo said, leaning across the table to grab food off of Pansy's plate (much to Pansy's protest). 'I hope he has a good day.' I sigh, looking back down into my cup. I had my hands wrapped firmly around the mug, sipping the warm black nectar. Emma still teased me after all these years, calling me a "Yank" for preferring just plain old coffee over tea.

A masculine rumble broke me out of my thoughts as my eyes flickered up again to see what was happening. Oh. Theo was here. And he was yapping, per usual. What, when did he get here?

The man in question was leaning his hand onto the table to my right, looking down at Emma who was in between us. "Hey, honey..." He muttered, their voices getting collectively quieter as they got wrapped up in each other's presence.

I rolled my eyes, sitting up slightly to grab Cedric. He leaned forward, but not willingly. My hands firmly grasped his collar to pull him halfway across the table. "AH- Vera let go-" "Not until you get me a new dorm and a new table. I can't handle it anymore, DO YOU HEAR ME? TOO MUCH THEO! TOO MUCH!" I shouted, sleep deprivation getting to me.

Theo stopped whatever poem or other crap he was reciting for my friend, looking up just to glare at me. "Oh stop being the anti-Cupid just because you're jealous." I turn my head, poor Cedric still being subject to my grasp, just to glare right back at Theo.

"Jealous? What the hell would I be jealous of? The fact that y'all effortlessly behave as if you got SLEEP LAST NIGHT?" "No, jealous that no one got you flowers." "Flowers? What flow- awwww Emma those are so pretty!" I push Cedric back down, turning fully in my seat to see the pretty roses in her hands.

She smiled up at me, nodding. "Someone told him they were my favorite." Her lovesick grin made me crack a genuine smirk. I sigh, feigning disappointment as I respond, "Too bad they lied."

"WHAT?" Theo exclaimed, eyes widening in horror. "Veralynn Post quit lying to my boyfriend!" Emma cried out as I just laughed harder. "Sorry, sorry, I had to."

I straightened up my posture, leaning back over my food, finishing the rest of my coffee as the lovebirds said their goodbyes. We both watched as Theo made his way back to his side of the Hall, sliding in to sit next to Mattheo.

Mattheo.

He was looking right at me. I smiled hesitantly at him, but he just looked back at his own friends, conversation continuing like it never stopped.

Oh.

My heart skipped a beat and not in a good way. This happened sometimes. I'd think he was encouraging me, I'd make an attempt to reach out, he'd go back to acting like I barely existed. My thoughts wandered to Emma. Emma. She seemed to be a natural at taming the 'bad boys.'

She had broken down the walls of her man, her man who was so misunderstood and underappreciated. Theo wanted to be good for her. It was like she was a drug he couldn't walk away from, a book he just couldn't put down.

My final thought echoed in my head like a constant ringing in between my ears as my eyes felt glued to the man who held my heart. And I knew—I knew that while I was happy to be myself—that sometimes on the coldest of nights and loneliest of days, when the absence of his love and affection rang the loudest... sometimes I wish I was her.

Well, she's so New York when she's in L.A.​​ She won't lose herself in love the way that I did 'Cause she'll call you out, she'll put you in your place When Emma falls in love, I'm learning

It was only the start of our 6th year, but every morning felt as if I was waking up on death row. Like my days were numbered, and with each passing minute, the executioner took another step closer. I've always been able to comfort myself by saying, 'It's okay that I can't hold him in my arms. At least I can be near him.'

Being in his presence alone has always been enough for me. His aura, his being, his soul being in the same room as mine has been enough for me to be content. But with graduation comes the end of it all. The end of us. The end of him. You might be going, 'Ah but graduation is just next year! You have time!'

Time? Time? It's taken me six years to get to this point and you think one more will be the difference between my anguish and my happiness? The time needed to cause a change? When him and I, two separate souls, intwine to become just us? No. There's never enough time and I'm too much of a coward to try it now, with another year in Hogwarts, where I would have to suffer not only 6th but 7th year in embarrassment and rejection. Because Mattheo Riddle doesn't want an us.

'Who am I even kidding? There is no us, there never will be. I sound like a fucking stalker.' I scoff, aggressively zipping up my bag. Potions had ended a while ago but apparently, I spaced out, only coming to when Professor Snape closed a desk draw rather loudly. It was only me and three other students in the room with him, taking our time to pack up and clean our workstations.

"-Vera. VERA." My eyes snapped up, noticing Emma waving her hand in my face. I grimaced, pushing her hand away. "How long...?" "A few seconds." She answered, frowning. I squirmed under her scrutinizing overlook. Her eyes swirled with a flurry of emotions; confusion, doubt, concern, etc. "What? Do I have something on my face?" She frowned deeper at that.

Chuckling nervously I hiked my bag over my shoulder, leading us into the hallway as we began our trek to the courtyard. Once a week we always pack lunch ahead of time, and then walk down to the Black Lake to have a picnic together. It was the highlight of my day and the pick-me-up I've really needed this past week. 'I just hope we can get there before we run into Theo.'

Theo's been really good for her, and he's been really good to her. Honestly, never thought I'd say it, but he's become like a brother to me. I usually look forward to our playful banter and then watching him whine and pout and tell Emma she hasn't spent enough time with him, but something's been off with him lately.

His behavior is as if he's walking on eggshells around me. His glances were full of concern. His questions, 'How are you?', 'Do you need to talk?', etc., etc. have been way more persistent. Nothing about me has changed, at least I don't think it has. I have no clue how he's somehow gotten the skill to look right through my mask.

I risk a glance over at Emma, eyes narrowing. She was chewing her lip, her fingers tap tap tapping. It was a trait she picked up from me. She used to complain about how fidgety I was, constantly having to at least drum my fingers or shake my knee to be able to focus. Something that became more incessant as I would get nervous or uncomfortable.

And then I noticed her doing the same thing whenever she got... nervous. 'You must have rubbed off on me,' she'd say. Well, it's a two-way road, Emma. Because your annoyingly empathetic self rubbed off on me too.

I left her with a habit she hated, and she left me with the ability to read her emotions like a book. It had it's benefits. We push through the bustling crowd, making our way to the ‘glass room,’ as we so eloquently coined it in our 1st year. It was a room with an entire wall made up of windows and an almost simple back-patio-like door that worked as one of the many exits that led to the courtyard. It was our favorite, just because of how homey it felt.

I twist the doorknob, pulling the door open for her before following her outside. There was a small friendly match of quidditch being played on one side of the courtyard, some kids were studying, and there was just a general bustle of life out there. Both from the students and from nature. As we walked down the steps and into the grass, further past everyone, weaving through all the hubbub and finally getting away from all the prying ears, I turned toward Emma. We continued down to the lake but now we finally had privacy. 

“Emma, what’s been up with you? You and Theo, now that I mention it. It’s felt as if you’ve both been… watching me. It’s kinda weird.” I nervously laugh, running a hand through my blonde curls to push them out of my face. Our black robes with yellow accents swished with our movement, though Emma’s posture noticeably stiffened when I spoke up.

She slowed to a stop, hand reaching out to grab my own and making me halt right alongside her. “Em?-” “I know.” “Know what?” “I know you’re in love with him.” Time seemed to slow. My heart quickened and my hands started tap tap tapping. I tilted my head slightly, looking at her closer. I never told anyone, I never spoke a word about my feelings.

Which means she noticed, she caught on, and she figured it out. She’s the only one who could’ve figured it out. Theo’s too dense to have- she told him. “Love who?” I spat out, anger simmering just below the surface. She caught on to that too. “Matt-” I yank my hand from hers, stomping away from her and towards the water. “Vera! I’m not judging you- stop just stop running away!” “Running?!” I whip back around. “You told Theo!” 

Her eyes looked wet, her lip trembling as she took in my ruffled appearance. “I didn’t.” I scoffed. “I didn’t.” She repeated with a firmer tone this time. “He knows you enough to know something is wrong, but he doesn’t know what is wrong.” “My- my love isn’t wrong. It’s not the end of the world for someone to be loved by me.” I shutter out running a hand down my face as I try not to spiral.

I know she didn’t mean it like that, I know she didn’t mean to have that heart wrenching look of pity in her eyes. But I could just hear what she was thinking, my insecurities clanging like a gong in between my ears, ‘Oh Vera, how could you ever think he’d love you back?’

We stood in a field. Surrounded by tall grass and beautiful wildflowers, a lake just a few feet to our right, a tree about two yards to the left of us, and the sounds of our school echoing down the hill and filling the uncomfortable silence that fell upon us.

“Vera…” My friend’s words cut through that very silence, voice sincere. “...you love with a love so loyal, that you are content with standing on the sidelines for years. You love, with a love so fierce, that you will defend and fight and protect even when the object of your desire doesn’t take notice. You think I haven't noticed your absolute adoration toward the boy? I picked up on it back in 2nd year. You can’t keep secrets from me, you know that.” We both laughed through tears at that one.

I looked at her in shock, not knowing what to say. 

But she quickly spoke up before I could even fully process what she said before, “You love with a love anyone would be blessed to receive. But the fact of the matter is, you absolutely suck when it comes to confessions.”

My eyes narrowed at that sudden change in tone, getting whiplash from how fast she went from serious to downright insulting. It would be funny if the situation wasn't so emotional.

“You watch him from afar, you love him at a distance, but graduation is closer than it's ever been and you’re letting him slip through your fingers. I’ve watched you lose yourself in this love for long enough. It’s time, Vera. Tell him or move on but I won’t let you throw away our last years at Hogwarts just because you were trying to hold on to something you’ve never had.” I flinched at that, looking back toward the ground.

“I-I don’t know what you’re saying…” Evidently, Emma crossed the distance separating us, and I felt her hands comfortingly squeezing my shoulders. “I’m saying… it’s time you come clean. It’s time you tell Mattheo you’re in love with him.”

Emma met a boy with eyes like a man Turns out her heart fits right in the palm of his hand Now he'll be her shelter when it rains Little does he know, his whole world's about to change

So I told him I love him. 

KIDDING. After Emma surprise attacked me in that field, I ran back to our dorm and hid until noon the next day. She gave me her notes and we caught up on all the classes I missed, and then we talked for hours about him. And I told her everything.

Everything I felt toward him, everything I loved about him, everything I knew about him. She just smiled at me and rubbed my back during it all, giving nods of encouragement as I stuttered over my words.

The days went by as I tried to figure out what to do. I’d sound absolutely bonkers if I just went up to him and professed my undying affection. I’d become every other girl! ‘Except this time, it’d be a girl who truly cares about him…’ I thought bitterly to myself.

Every time I started to brainstorm on how I could run into him or get his attention, I felt like a crazy person. Like someone could peer into my thoughts and watch as I spiraled further and further into the madness of conspiracy theories and red string. It felt wrong to be so… calculated with him. He deserves better than that.

So I stayed quiet, waiting for an opportunity but not pushing it. Waiting for the stars to align and him to drop in my lap. Waiting like I’ve been waiting for the past six years. My frown deepened at that thought, heart weary as I walked into Transfiguration. Three things immediately drew my attention to the far corner of the room.

The object of my affections was actually… attending class.

He was sitting in my seat.

He was staring right at me.

I gulp, hands flexing around the strap of my satchel, nervously and uncomfortably holding eye contact with his gorgeous chocolate pools, the windows to his soul. The only way to describe the emotions swarming in those very same windows, was… curiosity? Amusement? Warmth? It was hard to tell at this distance—the occasional student walking to their seat or passing by to meet up with their friends making it hard to gaze wholly into his eyes.

‘Oh how I wish I knew what you were thinking…’ I shake my head, breaking that train of thought as well as the spell Mattheo and I seemed to be under. A shoulder bumps into me, reminding me I was planted in the doorway. I crossed the threshold, walking towards Mattheo— my desk.

“I’d say I was happy to see you but I’d be happier if I had my own seat.” I prodded jokingly as I sat down rather heavily in the seat to his left. A laugh slipped out of his lips, the corners of his mouth curling into a smile, throwing his head to the side to look at me. “Your seat? I’ve never seen you sit here, baby.” Mattheo teased, eyes glinting with humor.

I felt my cheeks burn at that comment. He said it so casually, that term of endearment that I would give anything to hear him say with meaning.

Our interactions always went this way. He'd shamelessly flirt with me (making me feel as if I couldn't breathe), I tried my best to meet his challenge (occasionally I got him to blush too), and it always ended with him walking away without a backwards glance. ‘Stop, stop thinking that. He’s talking to you, talk back!’ My inner Jiminy Cricket chides.

“You’ve never seen me sit here? Well, darling, I’d have to say this is the first time I’ve seen you in this class. It’s no wonder you’ve never noticed me sitting here.” Mattheo’s eyes widened slightly at that but his smile never faded, pleasantly surprised respond with your own pet-name. 

“Wizards and witches, quiet down!” Professor McGonagall called out, dropping a heavy book onto her desk. The sound of the loud thud echoed as the surrounding voices hushed to a silence. She had everyone’s attention. Well, everyone except for the two kids in the far corner.

We continued gazing into each other’s eyes, brows furrowing into an almost challenge to see who’d turn away first. “Ah, Mr. Riddle. Glad to see you bothered to grace us with your presence.” The older woman clicked her tongue, effectively pulling us apart, our eyes breaking contact as our heads whipped toward her. “Talk to me after class.” McGonagall made sure to stare point blank at Mattheo, voice steady and tone devoid of humor. “Fuck, she looks mad.” I put my hand over my mouth, holding in a snicker at Mattheo’s whispered comment as our teacher begins her lesson. “Stop, you’re gonna get us in trouble.” I scold, opening my notebook and reaching into my bag looking for a quill. Oh crap.

My eyes widened in panic. No quill. I started unzipping the different pockets, rummaging around, hoping that with enough silent begging and prayer, one would just magically appear. ‘It’s fitting we’re in Transfiguration… maybe the lesson will be on “Making Your Own Quill.”’

I’m pulled out of my inner grumbling with a tap on my shoulder. I was bent over toward the side, in between Mattheo and I’s tables, searching as silently as possible for anything to write with. So the sudden feeling of two fingers tapping my arm made me jump slightly.

I glance up, seeing the prettiest and most annoyingly smug grin. “If I lend you a quill, will you lend me your seat?” He asked, tapping on the chair he was leaning back in. I frown, eyebrows furrowing yet again as I sit back up. “You not only brought one, but two quills? I didn’t know you owned a notebook.” I whisper back, happily shocked to find out he had planned to pay attention today.

“No, I brought one. And trust me, it was a spur of the moment decision. Deep down we both know I wasn’t gonna use it anyway. Just take it.” He finally pulled out the writing tool from his bag, sliding it onto the wood slab in front of me.

“Mattheo I can’t take your onl-” “You can, and you will.” He smirked, insisting. "Well..." I sigh, nodding as I picked up the feather. "...Mattheo Riddle. You are my hero." "Call me any day baby, I'm happy to rescue such a beautiful damsel." His eyes glinted with amusement at my burning cheeks.

He turned back to face the front of the class, his heart stopping stupid ass grin staying plastered on his gorgeous stupid ass face. ‘He called me bea-HE CALLED ME BEAUTIFUL. What the heck is happening.' I close my eyes, breathing in and out a few times to try to get control over my racing thoughts.

'Will I ever get used to the utter heart palpitations this man causes me to have? It’s like a rabbit is trapped in my chest.’ I shake my head, looking back down at my journal.

I didn’t even know where to begin, utterly lost in this day's lecture as the past however-many-minutes was spent paying attention to Mattheo and panicking over my lack of writing tools rather than the actual subject Professor McGonagall was droning on about.

My thoughts wander back to what I was thinking of before I saw the beautiful boy to the right of me. I’ve been waiting for six years. For six years I’ve been waiting for the perfect opportunity to drop in my lap, or for Riddle to come profess his love to me, or something, anything. I can’t even remember at this point.

I was tired of it all. Tired of waiting, tired of not knowing, tired of not living just because I yearned for something I didn’t have. I dip the quill in the ink, hesitating as the tip hovered over paper. The ink gathered at the point, almost falling off and splattering on the white page.

I glance to my right, gazing fondly at him. His profile, his curls, his general posture as he tried to pretend he was paying attention but he was simultaneously fighting sleep. His eyes kept fluttering shut and he was slumping further and further down into his chair.

I look back down at the paper. I’m tired of waiting. And so I began writing.

I met a boy with eyes like a man Turns out my heart fits right in the palm of his hand Now I’ll be his shelter when it rains Little does he know, his whole world's about to change

[miitarashi]

Not sure if nobody has asked this before but could u do some headcannons about what Tintin would be like when/if he gets jealous? Like if the reader was being flirted with by another person or if that other person was very obviously checking them out, also, whether or not he would do some NSFW things *wink* later that night as a kinda paranoid way of saying "please dont leave me" or something, idk if that makes sense but yea ❤️

......Nah. This- Bro??? I was thinking about it yesterday! What the- are you on my mind??? Better get out this place is worst than the backrooms.

Such delicious request need to be done 😌🙏🏽

[Name] = your name (reader neutral,not specified)

Warnings: it'll be some spicy things,some nsfw so don't read if you don't like. Sorry for any misspeling words.

☆Tintin headcanons - jealous☆

Ok,first things first.

I don't really see him like someone that would really feel jealous. Like,he trust you.

Or he would be emotionally mature or emotionally naive.

Bear with me-

He would enter in a relantionship waiting for the same,loyality and companionship,if you dare yourself enough to cheat (lock pretty good your house because i'll be coming for your soul) he would be disappointed? Sure,but i don't think he would try again or give a chance. Wouldn't be difficult to move on from it.

Now,the thing change when you was there,living your life and out of nowhere someone try to flirt with you.

If Tintin's around,he'll watch more for your safety since, again,he trust you. If the man/woman keep insisting after you denied,he'll join in to take you out of there.

Overal, it's not that big of a problem.

Only in two. Specific. Situations.

If someone is obviously checking you out.

He worship you every moment he can,this boy know how beautiful you are and he don't blame other people.

But this really get under his skin for some reason,even more when you was feeling beautiful and good with yourself and those people checking made you uncomfortable.

His overprotective mode kick in and soon enough you was far alway from the stares,while he comfort you in a caring and gentle way as usual.

Now,the second thing is. He knows that sometimes he stay away for a long time on his adventures when you don't go with him,even don't contact for a while because of the difficult situation he's in.

He make up for it as much he can,but there's still this little lingering voice in the back of his head saying that this can make you want to break up to be with someone more available and close.

You two already talked about this,but that damm tiny voice kept saying the same.

Being pretty loud and annoying when Tintin see you getting along with another person.

Not everyone of course,but you know when you just meet someone and you click with them right away?

That's the type.

He try to brush it off,but hearing you laughing, hugging and playing around with that one person really bugs him in the wrong way. That feeling "they can get someone better than me"

In that same day,he still try to let it pass but hearing you talking enthusiastic about that person...

He really wanted to communicate,but he didn't had the words,then he used his other love language to transpass what he was feeling,touch.

He begin with a hug from behind while you're talking, hugging you firmily against him. Without saying nothing,in a smooth motion he slowly begin to use his hands on you.

A possessive touch,but desperate behind it, kissing you all over,face, neck, chest belly,his favorite place that he took an extra time to kiss,your thighs.

He was so smooth that you just undestood what was happening when he laid you in bed.

He made it his goal to keep hearing his name falling from your lips, holding onto your hips for dear life,in a way that if he loose the grip you would disappear from his life in a blink of an eye.

When he really begin to move,a bit of his frustrations was used on you, setting slowly a bit rough pace,but always focused on bringing you pleasure equally.

His praises was how much he loved you,how perfect you are and how good you felt while holding eye contact resting his forehead against yours.

After finishing and after being taked care of properly, cuddling against his chest,his arms wrapped firmily around you and his face fit in the crook of your neck.

"I'm sorry for exaggerating a little" - he says in an apologetic and low tone against your skin.

"don't worry, it looked like...you needed it" - you said in a slightly humorous tone as you stroked his back gently.

Tintin was silent for a few seconds, seeming to enjoy the caress you were giving, but low and soft, he called out to you in a whisper, hearing a "hm?" yours in response. His arms tightened a little more, holding your body against his, sure that if he didn't let go, you would never disappear.

"Don't leave me" - he whispers, pulling away from your neck to look into your eyes.

"Please" - he pleaded, with both words and eyes.

Piecing together the loose ends from the way back to his behavior when you were out together,you let out a long sigh, disappointed in yourself for not noticing sooner and hugged him back with one arm while your other hand cupped his cheek, giving him a comforting caress and a long kiss before answering:

"Never Tintin, I love you too much for it" - you whisper back for only him to hear.

Tintin let a light sigh of relief escape, thanking you in a brief whisper, caressing your back and sides, saying sweet nothings lulling you into a safe and peaceful sleep in his arms.

___________________________________________

N/A: Nah,i'm still in deny of the right moment that this request showed up. YOU! UNKNOW PERSON! GET OUT OF MY MIND YOU BEAUTIFUL HUMAN BEING! But,overal i loved writing this one,hope you guys like it too! Thank you for reading! 😘

[smolwritingchick]

The Bangtan Gal Chapter 92- Thank You

Chapter Summary: Jennie finally tells Jungkook that she is ready for the next step. Jennie MCs for the first time and Jungkook MCs with her. Jennie and Jungkook plan with Bangtan and Big Hit on how they want to reveal their relationship. Jungkook seeks revenge on Jennie during Halloween Dance Practice when she dresses up as Captain America instead of Iron Man.

Words: 7,000+

Genre: Big Jungkook fluff for this! The flirting on camera while MCing, they were lowkey pushing it lol.

Author's Note: Idk if the dancing I wrote for JenKook makes sense but here is the video inspiration. It was at 1:24 for the spinning dance move. It was so cool! I was like, yeah they gotta do something like this. And who knows maybe I'll even have JenKook do this entire dance cover when they're public and older.

Thanks for your patience on this new chapter! Taking a few days off from writing and then will start working on the next one!

-----

"Are they getting ready? They're usually up by now," Jin said as the rest of the members were eating breakfast.

It was now morning and it seemed like everyone else was awake except for the Golden Duo who were still in Jennie's room. Today was the big exam day and the members wanted to make sure to bring the two teenagers to school bright and early.

"I'll check on them," Hobi offered and went to Jennie's door. 

Gently knocking on the door, he received no answer. Opening the door, since Jen had unlocked it after her bath with Jungkook, Hobi strolled in.

"Jennie? Jungkook? Rise and shine~! Time for school~!" he happily said but then ended up chuckling when he saw them. "Would you look at that..."

The couple was still asleep and found themselves snuggled together.

"I guess you two stayed up to study...ah, I hate to wake them up but they need to get to school on time," Hobi said to himself and walked over to the couple. "Hey! Rise and shine~! Time for school!"

He began to shake them as they both started to stir in their sleep.

"Up! UP! AHHHHHH~!" he began making loud sound effects and hit them with pillows.

"No..." Jennie groaned and turned over, trying to ignore him.

"Yes~!"

"Come on...it can't be time yet," 

"It indeed it is. Get up before Jin comes in. His wake up call will be much worse. Try to be ready in less than 30 minutes," he said as Jungkook started to get up with her.

Once Hobi left, the young couple got out of bed.

"Nap as soon as we get home?" Jungkook asked and stretched.

"Yes, please," she answered.

Pulling her in for a lazy kiss, he smiled and said, "Good morning,"

"Good morning," she smiled tiredly.

Once Jungkook left to go get ready in his room, Jennie got ready promptly and put on her school uniform.

Once at school, JenKook had the mindset of 'just do what you can' for the exams. They tried to cram last night and it did seem like a lot of the material was still in their brains. The exams went smoothly although they were tired and occasionally yawned as they answered the questions. Their parenting teacher even gave them and the rest of the students a break with the robot babies for the rest of the day and told them they would resume the project later.

--------

As promised, Jennie and Jungkook immediately went back to sleep once they came home. They slept all day, bewildering the members as they wondered where they were until they found them still knocked out in Jennie's room. It wasn't until evening that JenKook woke up and decided to eat and have snacks in bed to relax and watch Marvel movies.

While watching Thor: The Dark World, Jennie began to think about how to bring up the subject of telling Jungkook she was ready. They were alone, none of the members were going to be barging into her room since they wanted to give them space to relax after exams and she couldn't think of a better opportunity than this. The only thing she had thought about was how she should say it to him.

"Jungkook?" she called out, getting out of her thoughts to stop overthinking.

"Yeah?" he smiled, turning his head to her as he held her.

"I'm ready," she said with no hesitation. 

It took him a moment to register what she had meant as he widened his eyes a little. "You're ready?"

"Yes,"

"Are you-are you sure? Absolutely sure?"

She smiled softly. "Yes. I'm sure. I'm ready to take that next step with you when we can be in a more...private setting than this,"

He smiled and leaned to kiss her. "Thank you,"

"For what?"

"For trusting me. For wanting me. I'll make sure it's special. I promise."

"Same to you. I'm looking forward to it," she grinned, feeling her cheeks warm up at the thought of them taking this big step in their relationship.

As they continued to watch the movie, Jungkook began to ponder about when he would be able to have his first time with her. He wanted to plan out everything and make sure they were alone with no one to bother them. For their schedule, they were going to continue to promote Blood, Sweat & Tears and then they were going to be in Japan for their 3rd Muster.

Japan...

That got him to think because they would be in Japan sometime before they would perform for the 3rd Muster. After making the realization, Jungkook smiled to himself.

Your birthday...

----------

Continuing promotions, Bangtan began to get wins for BST and expressed how thankful they were to ARMY for the love and support. Jennie was so proud to see I.O.I in action, reminiscing on her time on Produce 101 with the girls. She found herself doing the Very Very Very choreography backstage as she watched them perform and visited them often to catch up and say hello.

For an episode of Inkigayo, Jennie was finally chosen to MC at a music show. 

"Oh man, oh man...Miss Bangtan finally got chosen to MC at a music show. I was waiting for this day to come," Jennie grinned on the Bangtan Bomb camera as she read the script. "And guess who I am MCing with? My good friend IM from Monsta X, LABOUM's Solbin, and my Golden Best Friend~!"

On cue, Jungkook sat beside her happily with a script in his hands while she continued scanning over her script.

“Oh God no…” she groaned.

“What’s wrong?” Jungkook asked.

“I have to do aegyo? Why are y'all doing this to me? This is so cringe! What I look like doing this? Ugh, I'm already embarrassed,"

He laughed softly. "You'll be fine,"

"Oh, I sure hope so unless I die out of embarrassment on TV," 

She hated it so much. Why did the writers want her of all people to do this? She felt so out of place and weird about it.

"How comfortable do you feel about MCing today?" she was asked while getting filmed.

"I feel good. I've been practicing and getting advice from my sisters. Alani, who is good at interviewing, and Vienna who is good at script analysis. It'll be a fun experience,"

"And you'll be with me. You'll be just fine. I've MC'ed a few times now and although I haven't done it a lot, the script gets in my head more quickly. Let it come naturally," Jungkook reassured her.

She smiled softly. "Thanks, Kook."

Later on, Hobi read the script with Jennie and started doing aegyo in front of her.

"Oh my God...can I just...not do aegyo?" she complained while he giggled.

"You got to! You'll look adorable, Jennie. And make sure you make sounds, too. The sounds are a must-do!" he reminded her.

She sighed. This was going to be a long day...

As it was almost time for the show, Jennie received her microphone which had her nametag on it with the name, Jennie, cutely written in white and purple with sparkles. She even wore matching outfits with Jungkook for the occasion. They both wore red and black sweaters with Jungkook wearing black pants while Jennie wore a black skirt with accessories. Jimin and Taehyung occasionally snuck in cute videos and photos of the couple rehearsing lines together while talking about how cute they looked in their matching outfits. 

Wanting to get a quick bite to eat before the show, Jennie headed to the elevator so she could go to the food court and ran into SHINee who planned to go up there, too. She felt starstruck as she was in the presence of them. No matter how long she had been in the K-Pop industry, just running into legendary groups who had worked hard to make a name for themselves was always so amazing to her.

She bowed respectfully and grinned, "Oh my gosh, hi! My name is Jennie. It's an honor to meet you guys! Wow, y'all are so fine in person," she ended up blurting out the last part which caused her face to warm up.

Her sudden compliment caused them all to giggle and bow at her, thinking she was cute. They thanked her and made her feel comfortable as they asked how she was doing.

"You're MCing for the first time?" Minho asked her.

"I am! It's an honor to finally get chosen to MC! I've been waiting for this opportunity. After three years it's finally my turn!"

"Getting nervous about it?" Key asked.

"Honestly? Yes. As it gets closer to the show, I am getting more nervous. I hope to do well and make sure not to forget my lines,"

"You'll do just fine. You speak well in Korean," Jonghyun smiled kindly.

"Thank you, that means a lot. I'm excited to watch you guys perform today! I'll see you all in the green room for the show,"

Before Jennie knew it, it was finally time for Inkigayo to start. She waited for her cue while IM, Solbin, and Jungkook were shown on screen with the audience cheering loudly. She had read the text messages from her sisters one final time before putting her phone away.

Vienna: Improvising is your best friend. Don't even worry too much if you forget your lines. You got this Jen!

Alani: Make sure you show off that pretty smile on camera and be yourself. Act natural. You'll do well dear sister!

"Hello! We're MCs of SBS Inkigayo! I'm Monsta X's IM,"

"I'm LABOUM's Solbin,"

"I am BTS' Golden Maknae Jungkook,"

"We have a fourth MC, don't we? Where oh where could she be?" IM wondered.

"Wait! I know what will summon her," Jungkook took a roll of Smarties out of his pocket.

"Smarties!? Don't mind if I do!" Jennie jumped into the frame, gracefully landing right next to Jungkook with a grin, and waved at the camera as the audience cheered loudly.

"There's our fourth! Please! Introduce yourself!" Solbin grinned.

Jennie swallowed nervously as she mentally prepared to do aegyo. 

"Hello~! I am! BTS' Smartie loving Miss Bangtan! Jennie Walker!" she made a cute sound effect. She posed cutely with a peace sign and bowed with the rest of them.

'I am dying inside...' she thought as her face was on fire. She wanted to crawl into a hole and completely erase what she just did from everyone's minds.

Jungkook tried not to laugh as he watched her. 'Cute...' he thought.

With the members backstage, they started laughing when they saw her do aegyo.

"She is too adorable," Namjoon laughed.

"She did it! Yay, Munchkin!" Hobi squealed and clapped happily.

"She is dying inside," Taehyung laughed, watching her body language. 

"I hope she knows we'll be teasing her about this after the show," Jimin added.

"Welcome! It's so nice for you to join us, Jennie," IM greeted.

"Take out some Smarties and Jennie will come running," Jungkook met her eyes as they smiled at each other.

As Solbin and IM began talking about the show, Jungkook opened the small roll of Smarties and took a few pieces out to give to Jennie. This part was unscripted but he knew she wanted to eat some. Smiling gratefully, she took them and popped them in her mouth to eat while he ate some, too. Because of Jungkook, Jennie began to feel more relaxed and acted naturally. The members even noticed that as soon as Jungkook gave her Smarties, her body language became less tense.

"We have a lot prepared for everyone so please stay tuned until the end~!" Solbin grinned.

'Last one' Jungkook gestured to Jennie to show her there was only one Smartie left. They began to have a staring contest, completely forgetting they were on camera. Being the generous boyfriend he was, he prepared to toss the piece of candy as she prepared for it. When he did, she easily caught it with her mouth, eating it happily. 

"Isn't that right, Jennie?" Solbin asked with a smile after speaking.

"Yes! And can I just say I'm full of happiness because I had a very delicious pack of Smarties? Smarties are sweet and amazing just like APink as we look forward to them performing soon!" Jennie answered smoothly while looking at the camera.

Although she wasn't listening to what was said, she remembered she was going to be asked if BTS' Blood, Sweat & Tears performance would show a more sexier side today, raising the bar.

"Her sisters taught her well. She's going off script but it looks natural," Jin complimented as Bangtan watched.

"Yeah, she looks comfortable," Yoongi nodded.

"I bet having Jungkookie by her side is helping her," Jimin grinned.

As the show went on, the 4 MCs prepared to announce Monsta X who was about to perform soon as IM was in his white attire for the upcoming performance.

"Monsta X is waiting for us," Solbin brought up.

"Should we meet Monsta X, now?" Jungkook asked.

"Heck yeah!" Jennie happily said and began to rap Jooheon's part smoothly, "Junbidwaesseo jigeumbuteo fight for love. Jeomjeom daraoreun i yeolgineun tteugeowo," 

"Wow~!" Solbin, Jungkook, and IM looked impressed.

Yoongi grinned proudly as he watched her rap. "That's my smartie," 

"Everyone let's welcome the ultra spectacular Monsta X!" Jennie cheerfully announced as the group stood behind them with bright smiles. 

"2! 3! Monsta X! Hello, we're Monsta X!" the members did their greeting.

"That was some good rapping, Jennie. You sure you don't want to become the 8th member of Monsta X?" Jooheon asked with a grin and high fived her.

That part wasn't scripted at all as he suddenly asked her. The part about being live was that anything could happen and you have to think quickly on your feet. It flattered Jennie that some boy groups would love to collaborate with her or be the female member of their group because they enjoyed her performances.

"Ah..." Jennie let out a genuine giggle at the thought as Monsta X was smiling at her. "I'm flattered!"

"Jennie will remain with us!" Hobi whined as he watched the screen with the members agreeing.

Jungkook poked the inside of his cheek, frowning at the idea. "No~! Miss Bangtan will remain in BTS," he quickly said with a hint of jealousy.

"Wishful thinking. We're very happy for the success of Fighter thanks to Monbebe," Shownu spoke up, talking about how grateful the group was for their support.

As Jungkook and Solbin took over the rest of the interview, Jennie smiled at the camera, standing next to her bias, Wonho. When they locked eyes, he nodded at her in acknowledgment and gave her reassuring smiles that she was doing so well MCing thus far. Before the show she had met up with Monsta X to chat and take photos and she expressed her hope to do well MCing. She loved how sweet and uplifting they were. 

"Well, we certainly can't wait to watch Monsta X perform! It's coming up, soon!" Jennie signed off with everyone joining in to say 'Soon!'

With more time flying by, Jennie and Jungkook were now in their Blood, Sweat, and Tears outfits. 

"This is Jungkook and Jennie in the green room," Jungkook announced.

"And this is IM and Solbin," IM added. "It's time to meet today's nominees for first place today!"

"They need no introduction! It's SHINee and BTS!" Solbin announced.

The members of SHINee bowed and did their greeting and JenKook stood with their group to do theirs before standing as MCs again with Solbin and IM.

"You are 1 of 1, SHINee! You're back as a nominee for first place, how does it feel?" IM asked.

"First of all, we are really happy. We are very grateful to our fans and we are honored to have a challenge for 1st place with BTS," Onew answered.

"BTS, you're a nominee for first, Jin tell us how you feel?" Solbin asked him.

"We are very honored to be a challenger with SHINee sunbaenim. And we have the opportunity to be a challenger thanks to our fans, we love you," he blew a kiss at the camera.

"Both groups are excellent singers and dancers. There's nothing you can't do!" IM added. "I really want to know what each group has in store for their victory ceremonies,"

Taemin answered, "If we win 1st place, we will show sexy 1 of 1 like Blood, Sweat and Tears,"

"So, if we win 1st place we will show cute Blood, Sweat, and Tears," V added.

"I'm really curious about today's results! Stay tuned to find out which group will win!" Jungkook announced. "A versatile and flashy performance by SHINee is coming up soon!"

"As well as the mature performances by BTS. You will see Jungkook and I in action with Bangtan later on in the show, so don't miss any of them!" Jennie spoke up.

"Coming up...soon!" They all announced with big smiles.

-----------

Later, the four stood by each other once again as it was just about time for BTS to perform. Jungkook was asked by Solbin how he had planned to act sexy for Bangtan's performance and he immediately turned to Jennie which was definitely not a part of the script. He was supposed to sing this to the camera for the audience but he turned to her instead.

'Oh God...not on camera,' Jennie kept her composure, trying to not let her surprise be shown on camera as she watched him lean in closer singing, "Nae pi ttam nunmul,"

Now those were some bedroom eyes as she held his intense gaze and couldn't fight the smile appearing on her face. Unscripted, Jennie countered by singing a line from her verse to loud cheers, "How much longer before you consume me?"

'Not much longer...' he thought to himself.

Jungkook grinned and they reluctantly broke eye contact to continue with the show as they heard IM speak again about how BTS was going to put on a sexy performance.

Jimin and Taehyung giggled to themselves while watching them backstage. They were LOVING the moments between Jennie and Jungkook, eating up every look they'd give each other.

"He's giving her the look," Jimin wiggled his eyebrows. 

"They need to relax. Looking at each other like they want to kiss on camera," Yoongi chuckled.

"They can't help it," Taehyung giggled.

While Solbin was talking, Jennie glanced over at Jungkook to take another look at his handsome face. Feeling eyes on him, he looked over at her and smiled softly, making her smile back. At this point, these two were making JenKook shippers happy with their cute moments on camera. 

Jennie and Jungkook met up with Bangtan backstage as the stylists wiped off any sweat on their faces and retouched their makeup. For today's performance of Blood, Sweat, and Tears, it was finally Jungkook's turn to dance with Jennie. The Golden Maknae was excited that it was finally time for him to perform with her after waiting patiently. After the stylists were done with them, Jennie and Jungkook stood with each other and he couldn't help but reach out to hold her waist.

"Listen, you have got to make sure you control yourself when we dance," she playfully teased him and placed a hand on his chest.

"With you looking like that, I don't think that's going to happen," he admitted with a grin. 

"You two seem to be in a trance today," Jimin giggled as the couple turned to him.

"Whatever is going on, we're loving it," Taehyung added.

"I'm just very happy," The Golden Maknae answered.

"Yeah, today is just a really fun day with him by my side," Jennie added.

"I can't wait to see this performance," Jimin said with anticipation.

"Please just don't go overboard," Jin spoke up after getting his makeup retouched. "Have fun but try not to go too crazy on TV,"

"We'll try our best, hyung," Jungkook replied.

"They're about to push the limit," Namjoon laughed, anticipating the inevitable. 

"Watch the move get banned on TV," Hobi added with a laugh.

During the performance, Jennie thought about how this was War of Hormone 2.0 with Jungkook. They danced sensually before but they were older and now dating. The two had been working on a unique dance move for this and they had been practicing for over a week to make sure they got it right. Their duet was sexy and Jennie was pretty surprised the music show allowed this since they can be a bit strict on certain sexy dance moves. But for today, they got a pass. However, it would probably be the only time they'd be able to do this unless BTS did it on tour.

As the comeback promotions progressed, Jennie finally started to ignore any ignorant or rude comments of 'Forcing her Americaness' or acting too 'sexy' for the performances of BST. She chose to just focus on working, having fun, and the positivity instead of worrying about the negativity. That helped her focus and it showed onscreen when she danced as she got out of that mindset of worrying what people were going to think.

The members but Jungkook were on the floor while Jennie danced and began her verse for the song, turning in Jungkook's direction as he began to stare at her with desire. But this didn't even look like he was using his stage persona, it was like he was looking at her for real.

How much longer before you consume me?

No matter how much I resist, I can't fight what you're doing

For this, Jungkook was going to show off his strength. Not wasting any time, he instantly grabbed her by her hips and pulled her close to him. All of a sudden, he easily lifted her up and held her with his hands under her thighs while she placed her hands on his shoulders. Wrapping her legs around his waist, it started to give her flashbacks of when he had lifted her up and pinned her against the wall when he confessed his love for her in January. And she only wondered...

'Oh God...sing Jennie,' she thought, trying to focus on the performance, getting a bit flustered at the thought.

As they held each other's gaze with him beginning to smirk at her, she ran a hand over her hair to move some hair from her face. He inched closer to her with his lips almost touching hers as he slowly took steps forward while they both were ignoring the pandemonium from the audience. Jennie couldn't help but smile as she caressed his face and felt the subtle squeeze of her ass. They were really pushing it on stage.

My mind is telling me to break free but my body is freaking out

No, I can't want you, get out of my head

As you love every inch of me you see that I want it too

He set her down as they began to dance sensually, with her back against his chest. He mirrored her movements closely as they continued to get cheers from the crowd.

Breath on my neck, I bit off more than I can chew

Reflecting on my choices, I'm wonderin' if there's any way out of this

This was going to be so extra but she trusted Jungkook and knew he'd hold her and make sure she wouldn't fall for this move. With her hands on his shoulders, he placed his hands on her waist and used his strength to lift her high up in the air. Wrapping his arms around her thighs to hold her securely, she was now looking down at him. Then he dropped her down while leaning forward with her still in his arms. One hand was on her back while the other hand was under her thigh as she held onto him, getting dipped. Then he spun her body around his back as her torso was pressed against his back before she landed safely on her feet, surprising the audience with how quickly and smoothly they did the move. 

As she reluctantly pulled away from him, she shook her head, taking steps back while he took steps forward to follow her. He then grabbed her hand and pulled her back to him as she sang her last few lines, looking like he was about to kiss her.

I'm losing this battle, I just can't resist. 

Only a matter of time before you screw me up and I'll be stuck reminiscing. 

While JenKook was dancing, the members watched from the floor and were happy to see them together. Jin freaked out internally over their sexy dancing but he was happy to see them have their moment. 

'They are so extra...' Namjoon chuckled, taking a glance at them.

Jimin and Taehyung had watched proudly. Those two were becoming more open about not even hiding it anymore and they hoped they continued that. After their performance, it seemed like the cheers got even louder and ARMY had really enjoyed today's BST dance.

"You two did it! That spin was amazing!" Hobi cheered on JenKook who were getting their makeup retouched by stylists.

Jennie was proud that everything went successfully with Jungkook. Every time she danced with him, it felt right and she hoped they would be able to do the spin trick again. He really lifted her and spun her around like it was nothing and their hard work had paid off as it received extremely positive reactions. 

Social media went crazy over the performance and the highlight had to be the spin and when he effortlessly lifted her to hold her in his hands. Everyone loved their chemistry and how smooth they were with everything. 

JenKook shippers were having a field day on Twitter:

'WHY WASN'T THIS SPIN IN THE MUSIC VIDEO!? ONLY JENKOOK CAN DO SOMETHING LIKE THIS! THE SPIN WAS EVERYTHING!'

'I am just...loving the way he grabbed her. I felt like I was intruding while watching! Their acting for BST was on point!'

'The Golden Duo at it again to become the most extra duo ever. They ATE!'

'This is why Jungkook had been working out more! He used that strength! He lifted her like it was nothing!'

‘I am NOT delusional but throughout this whole show Jennie was staring at Jungkook like he made her the happiest girl in the world.’

'Well, he did give her Smarties on camera so of course she's happy!'

'I strongly feel like it may be more than the Smarties.'

'I’m sorry but the way Jungkook looks at her got me feeling some type of way,’

'JenKook giving us shippers what we want! Now KISS!'

'Step aside Taennie shippers! JenKook said HELLO!'

'Damn, I thought nothing was going to top V and Jen's performance. I think Jungkook's version is the best,'

'I don't even want to see the ones with the other members lmfao. Let the JenKook version be the permanent one!'

'Roomful of people but they made it feel like it was just him and her.'

'Best version of Jennie's verse to date! The chemistry!'

'LOL Big Hit should have chosen Jungkook for V's role now! This just looks RIGHT!'

'I could watch them forever. They need to start dance covers as the Golden Duo because the way they danced had me mesmerized'

'Jungkook is sprunggggggg! Do you hear me!? SPRUNG!!'

'Nah Jennie is SPRUNG! You see the way she was acting around him!?'

'PAY ATTENTION! HE SQUEEZED HER ASS A LITTLE! REPLAY IT!'

'I feel like she is so comfortable around him. Her body flowed so well with his! It just looked different in comparison to V's dance.'

'This era is stressing me tf out because idk if she’s dating Taehyung but then look at how Jungkook is looking at her and then the moment with Jin UGH WTF is going on!'

'Did you notice out of all the members, Jungkook just had THAT GRIP on her!? JenKook forever!'

'Plot twist she dating all members!'

'K-Pop predictions: BTS' Jennie will announce she is dating an idol before the year is over.'

'I agree with this prediction because you mean to tell me a beautiful black woman like Jennie is single? In this industry? After all this time? Nah, someone must have captured her heart. I have a feeling. Idk who because she has so many nice interactions with a bunch of male idols but she gotta be taken.'

'This era is stressing me out! Jennie's acting is incredible when it comes to this seductive persona for this era!'

'I know Jennie wanted to run away after doing aegyo lol'

'That is some intense staring between JenKook'

'The way they were eating Smarties together while MCing! The Best Golden Duo!'

'You see how Jennie caught the last smartie when Kookie threw it? Lmfao they're not called the Golden Duo for nothing!'

'I NEED to know what the hell is going on between Jennie and the members because they're selling the hell out of this era with the lingering gazes and sexy dancing!'

'JenKook looked like they wanted to risk it all on camera. I'm loving it,'

'JenKook shippers how we feeling!? We have been STARVING for some JenKook content and we were not disappointed!'

After the show, Jennie texted her sisters to ask for their thoughts.

Jen: Soooooo?? Did I do well MCing?

Alani: LOLLLLL yes!! You did good! You have a cute charm when you MC. Keep up the amazing work! But girl! You and Jungkook dancing tho? WHEW!

Vienna: So we just gonna ignore how Jungkook was giving her the bedroom eyes? And how he held you!? People are going to start noticing lollll. He really did not want to keep his eyes off you

Jen: LOL

-----------

Because of JenKook's duet, ARMY wanted to see it again but music shows wouldn't allow them to have him pick her up like that again so they had to tone it down a little. They could still do the flip but him picking her up was scrapped due to it being too hot for TV in the producers' eyes. Due to popular demand, it seemed like Jungkook would be the one to dance with her, completely changing all plans. It excited Jennie that fans wanted to see more of her and Jungkook. 

For THE SHOW, Jennie sat in between Suga and Jin while they sat with the rest of the members and Jungkook had a mic, MCing.

"I'm THE SHOW news special reporter, Jungkook. I'm here to meet famous people. They are...BTS!" he announced as the group did their greeting. "I heard BTS is in the limelight, right now. The new album that snatched global hearts! Introduce your title song,"

"We often talk about youth," Rapmon answered. "This song is about youth falling into temptation. Blood, sweat, and tears, it's a well known phrase, right? Blood, sweat, and tears are my everything - that's the message,"

"I listened to the song. It's a great song. Today's THE SHOW interview will be about blood, sweat, and tears. First, let's talk about blood. Whose blood is full of youth?" 

"You and Jennie are the youngest, it's you two," he answered.

"Yes, we are hot blooded," Jungkook nodded in agreement.

"I second that," Jennie spoke up with a smile.

"Those two made people's blood hot with their performance," Jimin added with a giggle.

Jennie laughed shyly, getting flashbacks as her face warmed up. When she locked eyes with Jungkook, he smirked softly, making her smile.

Focusing back on the interview, Jungkook asked, "Who is cold blooded in BTS?" 

"I say it's Suga. If it's a no, it's a no for him," Hobi answered.

"But I do have blood and tears. If I didn't have blood and tears, I wouldn't be here," Suga answered.

"Show us your cold looks," Jungkook requested as he did what he was told, giving the camera a cold stare. "That look sliced me into 15 pieces," 

'His sharp eyes are so sexy'

"I've been cut by him," Rapmon said.

"Let's talk about sweat," Jungkook said. "The second album WINGS was made with devotion and effort. Devotion and effort, should we stitch up a doll nose?"

"What?" Hobi asked.

"Stitching up a doll nose,"

"I thought you said pterosaur," Jin said as Rapmon pretended to be one and roared, flapping his arms.

"So this doll...uh...Suga who has no blood or tears, will stitch the doll," Jungkook gave him the doll.

"Will Suga do it nicely?" Hobi wondered.

"Stitch the nose?" Suga asked.

"We will continue the interview while Suga does his thing," Jungkook said.

'Fix it with effort, Suga!'

"Hmmm I doubt he will do well," Hobi added.

"Have some faith! I believe in you, Suga," Jennie encouraged him.

"Thank you, Smartie," Suga replied with a soft smile.

"There are words going around saying the blood sweat and tears song is very sexy. Then, who in BTS is so sexy that even their sweat is sexy?" Jungkook asked.

"Sexy sweat?" Hobi wondered.

"I say Jimin," Rapmon said. "Jimin's sweat is sexy,"

"I personally think Jin is sexy," V pointed to Jin. "He doesn't sweat at all. Wouldn't he be sexy if he did sweat?"

"What are you talking about?"

"Let's point at the person we think is the most sexy," Hobi suggested as the members all pointed and the majority voted for Jin.

"So, Jin it is!" V revealed.

"Look at the camera and do a sexy face," Jungkook requested. Once Jin had a sexy facial expression, Jungkook didn't look too impressed. "You look like an old man,"

Jennie ended up bursting out in laughter, getting playfully hit by Jin.

"How is the stitching going?" Jungkook asked the rapper.

"I'm still stitching," Suga answered.

"Keep on going. The interview will continue. Last subject is tears. We can't pass cry acting when talking about tears," Jungkook said as he thought about how he was able to cry on the spot.

The members went on to discuss who would be able to cry better and Jin, V, and Rapmon were chosen to go up against each other on who would cry first. Jungkook went through the rules as it was Tear Monster vs King of Acting Jin, vs the greatest rival V.

"Get into your acting mode. Ready, start!" Jungkook announced.

'Let's find the best cry-actor of BTS'

Jennie tried her best not to laugh as she watched the boys preparing to cry as she covered her mouth. 

"Do you want to sneeze?" Jungkook asked, making Jennie and Hobi laugh.

"Ah-choo?" Rapmon spoke up but Jin immediately started crying and Jennie applauded, praising his efforts.

"Our farewell is coming soon..." Jin started acting as a tear ran down his cheek. "You are asking me how I feel?"

"His tears fell," Rapmon pointed out.

"BTS Jin, you cried in 42 seconds. You are great," Jungkook praised.

'Congratulations! Jin is BTS cry king!'

"I'm done," Suga announced and showed the doll.

'Suga has finished stitching his doll?'

Jungkook laughed as the needle was still pinned to the nose. "Why is the needle still there?"

Jennie, Jin, Hobi, Jimin, and V began laughing, leaning over each other.

"That's a shame. How dare you?" Jennie playfully scolded him. "Doing that to the poor doll, get it out of its nose,"

"That's just cruel," Hobi added.

"Finish it off properly," Jungkook told Suga. "This doll is a gift for THE SHOW viewers. Finish it off completely. That's perfect,"

"You have to tie a knot," Jin reminded.

"I did tie a knot," Suga answered while Jungkook checked the doll thoroughly.

"It's perfectly stitched on. There are more questions. BTS is known as a group with great abilities. Dancing, singing, rap, lyrics, composing multi-talented people. In that sense, let's hear our rappers sing. What's a song when you think about tears? Let's go," Jungkook reported.

"Don't forget!" Suga sang in a high pitched voice, making Jennie cringe and cover her ears with Jin.

"My love. You are inside me!" Hobi joined Suga before they yelled in excitement with Rapmon.

Jennie sat there with Jin, V, and Jimin, glancing at one another, amused.

"Actually, BTS rappers were known for their singing. That was perfect. You are with reporter Kook. Now, the last question for blood, sweat, and tears talk. Who is the most grateful person for BTS?"

"Personally... It makes me teary just thinking about it," Suga spoke up and began to try to stop himself from crying. "Our fans, ARMY,"

"Someone get me tissues please," V said while the rest of the members and him were fake crying.

Jin and Jennie looked amused and sat there, watching their antics.

"Let's do a short video letter to our fans," Jungkook suggested. 

'To our grateful people...'

Jimin looked at the camera, staring at it intently.

"He's talking with his eyes," Jungkook looked on.

"Was that telepathy?" Suga asked.

"Thank you all for supporting us always," V spoke.

"Strong power, thank you!" Rapmon said in English, causing everyone to burst out in laughter. 

"RM has kindly translated for international ARMY fans," Hobi said. "International fans would be watching this,"

'How kind of RM to go out of his way to translate for international fans.'

"Now Jin," Jungkook pointed out.

"When I look at ARMY, I can feel my heartbeat. It's very heartwarming," he answered.

"Heartbreaker," Rapmon commented, making him laugh.

"Miss Bangtan?" Jungkook smiled, gesturing for her to speak.

"ARMY makes my heart soar. ARMY makes me happy. ARMY gives me strength. I love you," she blew a kiss and repeated her words in English for international fans.

"Can I say something? I'm not too sure if they understood me speaking with eyes," Jimin asked after she was done speaking.

"Yes, go for it," Jungkook replied.

"I was joking before. I thank you all. We will do our best to show great things. Watch out,"

"Thank you for your time. I'm special reporter, BTS Jungkook," he signed off as the members applauded.

--------

Jennie and Jungkook had a long discussion with Bang PD and the company about figuring out that Dispatch definitely knew about their relationship. There was no way after all this time of these two dating that Dispatch didn't know. And JenKook had been noticing it was like they had been getting watched occasionally and it was probably Dispatch reporters spying on them and taking photos, planning to reveal them as the next New Year's couple.

As a K-Pop fan, Jennie knew all about the craziness in the K-Pop community when it came to Dispatch and their New Year's Couple reveals. But she and Jungkook wanted to take matters into their own hands and beat them to it. So, the company agreed to let them do their thing as it got closer to the end of the year to make the announcement.

What made Jennie's heart soar was how serious Big Hit was about making sure to protect her from any malicious comments or threats since they knew she would be the one to be hit with the most hate out of this reveal. She was ready for it but the fact that the company was serious about protecting her & Jungkook and making sure to blacklist anyone who threatened or disturbed their peace made her feel at ease.

The plan was for Jungkook to make a GCF video of them together to post as well as photos of them while Jennie would also post photos and even a song. Bangtan wanted to write cute messages to tweet as well as post some photos and videos they had taken of the couple throughout their time of dating. Jennie valued how much support and love the boys, staff and all of Big Hit gave her and Jungkook. Things were going to be fine.

"I plan to take a social media break when we reveal our relationship," she told Bang PD. "I just...for my mental health I want to just focus on what is in front of me and take a break. Focus on the tour, our next comeback, and all. When I'm ready to go back to posting on Instagram and Twitter, I will. But consider Twitter and Instagram deleted once I post my piece,"

And he understood and supported her decision. In good spirits, Jennie and Jungkook felt more excited and at ease about planning their relationship reveal.

"Remember, no matter what I will be standing next to you through everything," Jungkook held her hand as he looked at her with a smile.

She nodded and smiled as he brought her hand to his lips to kiss softly. "Always,"

Before leaving the office, Jennie brought up another topic for Bang PD. "I know this is sudden but for our upcoming WINGS tour...um...can the company consider having a tour date in Philadelphia? My hometown? I'd love to perform at home and do something special for it,"

He told her no promises but he would work with the company to see if he could make it happen.

--------

It was like Jungkook was burning a hole in her back with that unamused stare while they were being filmed for their Halloween 21st Century Girl dance practice. Jen could not stop laughing as she periodically glanced at Jungkook’s excessive glaring. 

Reason? Her costume.

She decided to be Captain America after she told him a few days ago that she would be Iron Man. But since he ate the last of her smarties, that’s what he gets. Disappointment. She also wore it to see his priceless reaction. For today, each member wore a costume for the special occasion. Namjoon was Ryan from Kakao Friends, Jin was a cowboy wearing a horse, Suga wore a traditional Hanbok, J-Hope was a skeleton, Jimin was a cabbage, V was Syaoran Li from Cardcaptor Sakura which was the anime he was currently getting Jennie into, and the love of her life, Jungkook, was a bunny. 

She thought about Jungkook's reaction to her costume before they started filming.

"Jungkook is going to lose his mind," Taehyung giggled as he walked with Jennie to the practice room.

"Oh, I know. It's going to be hilarious. He gon' learn today not to mess with the last of my favorite candy," she replied as he opened up the door to let her go in first.

As soon as Jungkook turned around, it looked like he was about to go through the 5 stages of grief. 

"What the heck happened, Jennie!?" Jungkook exclaimed with a frown when she walked into the practice room with the costume on. He was already wearing his big bunny costume and she tried not to laugh at how cute he looked when angry in the suit. "That's not the costume you said you'd wear!"

"Listen...I know and I'm sorry! I know you wanted Iron Man but...this looked so cool!" she spun around in her costume which looked like the outfit from Winter Soldier. She even had the shield with it.

"I cannot believe you...I feel betrayed. Why would you lie to me? Your own boyfriend? You dare play with my emotions and tell me you're going to dress up as my favorite superhero and you choose the exact opposite? Have you no heart?"

"You are so dramatic," she giggled as the members watched them bicker in amusement.

"ME!? Dramatic?! Honey, you told me you would be Iron Man!"

"I was but you ate the last of my smarties! So I changed my mind."

"I said I was sorry!"

"Sorry doesn't cut it,"

"Oh, so it's like that?"

"Yeah, it's like that,"

"Why you little..." the Golden Maknae glared at her while she smiled innocently.

"Love you~!"

"I love you, too..." he grumbled.

While the rest of the members performed, they noticed his dirty looks while Jen smiled innocently and stuck her tongue out at him. They were just waiting for something to happen as they knew Jungkook’s love for Iron Man and prayed for Jen’s well being. With his big bunny suit, Jungkook deliberately bumped into her, causing her to trip to the floor during the chorus, dropping her shield in the process.

Did he really just make her fall to the floor?

She stared at him in disbelief as he gave her the same innocent smile she had before while the members giggled at what was going on.

"Seriously!? You play too damn much!" she exclaimed.

The staff filming already knew this was going to end up in disaster but kept filming anyway. Jennie got back to her original position to continue dancing, plotting her revenge. He was not going to get away with that. And it’s on camera, too? No way. If ARMY had to see her fall, then Jungkook had to fall, too. 

As the song went on, she found an opening and bumped her hip into him, making him stumble. Jungkook retaliated by playfully smacking her arm but then got hit back by her as he lost his footing, tumbling to the floor. 

Jimin laughed loudly watching the Golden Maknae roll on the floor, unable to get up while Jen dramatically stomped on him.

The staff members gave up and decided that this would be great blooper footage while the members forgot about the dance and turned their attention to JenKook play fighting.

“Yah! Yah! We’re supposed to be dancing! What is this!?” Hobi laughed and grabbed a hold of Jennie with Yoongi while Namjoon and Taehyung helped Jungkook stand up.

“He hit me first!” she pointed out. 

“I did no such thing!” Jungkook exclaimed.

“We’re going to need to film properly from the beginning! We can’t upload our dance practice like this.” the staff members laughed and stopped filming.

Once everyone pulled themselves together, they tried again. Still, in a playful mood, Jennie smacked Jungkook’s bunny head. Having enough, he made her fall to the floor and jumped right on top of her while the members started laughing and yelling, rushing over to break it up again.

[idontwanttospoiltheparty]

I love your nuanced takes. They are always a joy to read.

I'd be curious which songs, beatles or solo, do you think they wrote for/about each other and their situation (beatles&solo).

You don't have to go into great detail on them if you don't wanna.

Hope you have a great day. <3

Hi anon :) Glad you enjoy my takes! Hope you have a great day too <3

Preface that while I think this is fun, I really don't generally think songs are a good vehicle to extrapolate about the real life of these people. So, I try not to base my analyses of them as people on these songs, even the ones I feel more strongly about.

I'll categorize these by how certain I am about them (and I'll leave out confirmed stuff like Too Many People, Early 1970, How Do You Sleep?, Run of the Mill, Here Today etc.)

If you have a question re: why some specific song is in this category and not the other I can try to explain, though some of it is admittedly just vibes (and since I try to separate this from the Main Analysis™, I feel okay utilizing the vibes as a justification at times lol) If I left a song off you'd like my take on feel free to ask as well.

Close to positive:

Day Tripper is imho at least partially about Paul. This one feels so obvious to me, given what John said about it and the timeline (written squarely before Paul took LSD, conveniently after the whole LA fiasco), yet I rarely see people talking about it. Sad! It could also be partially about Cynthia.

Tug of War: Paul said it was about John in 1982 but then retconned that. IDK why he did that but. Come on!

I Know (I Know): I nearly put this one a tier lower but the I've Got A Feeling intro and the way it fits in the timeline. The Getting Better reference. It matching up with Paul's description of them tripping together + "share in each other's mind". It's too much.

A compelling case can be made:

In My Life: it makes a lot of sense. But Paul isn't the only likely muse IMO. he might be the most likely one, I'm not sure. I Know (I Know) makes me tend more to it though, admittedly.

3 Legs: yeah. Probably! It's not entirely clear to me what he's expressing outside a feeling of betrayal though.

Oh! Darling: Likely about John, but perhaps actually about the band as a whole.

The Answer's at the End: the way George quoted that same saying when asked about Paul in that live chat… THE IMPLICATIONS! (at least that maybe George came to associate the song with Paul later on?)

Remember: I tend to think this song is specifically about running away from the Beatles. There's more sadness in it, given John references Bring It On Home in the lyrics.

Who Can See It: this one also appears to be about George's general relationship with the Beatles. I don't think this is a hot take but no one talks about this song lol. I love it!

Cafe On The Left Bank: the song referencing Charles de Gaulle making a speech does place this quite firmly in the 60s. It's not really a love song though so I don't get why people consider this one such a win lol. It seems to mostly be about the city of Paris itself.

I like to think it's true but am admittedly not sure:

Call Me Back Again: it's a vague song, really. But damn… those mellotron flutes.

#9 Dream: IDK. this versus "The dream is over". the production-style. I like reading this song as a reconciliation with The Beatles as a concept.

Little Lamb Dragonfly: the whole being haunted by the dragonfly even though you're trying to move on thing :/

No Words: COME ON??????? but the Denny writing credit does puzzle me lol.

Crippled Inside: it would be soooooo devastating @ Paul!!! (probably only partially, possibly also self-directed)

Could have been inspired by the other but not necessarily in the way people think:

Some People Never Know: I do think Paul felt John was cynical in the way he's describing in this song. (I don't really think I Know (I Know) is a response to this song btw)

Silly Love Songs: ditto. He is Not fucking saying "I love you" (romantically) to John in the song he's duetting with his wife lol. but it could be a cheeky lil nod.

We Can Work It Out: I believe Paul when he says this was written about a fight he'd had with Jane. But Paul was also in conflict with John at the time (again, the LSD thing), thus I think that might have in some way informed his outlook when writing this. And John may have been thinking about their conflict while writing his part.

Let Me Roll It: it sounds a lot like John, yeah! but idk about the lyrics.

Look At Me: it could be about Paul, but it could be about the whole world, really. It's more a wish to be seen and understood really.

Dear Boy: I'm annoyed by people insisting Paul is lying when he says the inspiration is Linda's ex-husband. She's co-credited (and she actually isn't credited on every Ram song. I don't think the credit was "handed" to her, at least not at this point in time)! That being said, Paul may have bonded with Linda over feeling unappreciated in their previous life situations.

Yvonne's The One: Look. I think John's death really shifted how Paul felt about telling people he loved them. That may well have influenced the lyrics song. I don't think it's necessarily that literal.

However Absurd: ditto. This song is even more abstract so it feels even less literal.

?????? Who Knows

If I Fell: usually I think no it couldn't possibly. But– (And I don't find that Valentines card very compelling, no. but it's just like: well then who else would this song John called very personal about? I guess, for all I know, it could even be Brian. wow!)

Girl: I mean. Maybe! Sort of. They also said at the time it was about religion, and that makes a lot of sense, but it could still be that the character of the girl was inspired by how John felt about Paul at the time.

I'm So Tired: it seems equally likely to be about Yoko to me.

Don't Let Me Down: ditto. Actually. this one's more likely Just about Yoko tbh.

I'm Losing You: maaaaaaaaaaaaaaaybe. but also. Yoko.

Now And Then: genuinely who knows. this one's admittedly stranger for Yoko but… they did "interrupt" their relationship often, requiring to "start again". Also May is an option.

The Pound Is Sinking: Mostly, I don't know how straightforward it is.

Honestly… Not really

(Just Like) Starting Over: the "My Love", "Another Day", "Wings" thing has never compelled me, based on those being OLD songs by 1980, plus none of the phrasing or word choice is particularly conspicuous to me. But I also don't feel very strongly that it's not about Paul. It could be, though I don't know that I'd assume it was meant as a direct declaration of love then. Also the line before being a reference to Through The Looking Glass is neither here nor there. Since when is John Lennon dropping Lewis Caroll references only reserved for Paul? that feels like putting the cart before the horse, based on one single lyric in Glass Onion.

I've Got A Feeling: I think he's just saying words here, tbh.

Real Love: if it's about Paul that's fucking depressing. But I don't think it is really.

[vllergy]

emerges from the ether for 5 seconds before vanishing again--i don't post here often i go through phases, the moon has phases i have phases whatever but i've been playing a lot of b@lders g@ate and while i don't think i'll ever feel comfortable writing canon character content (maybe h@lsin??? g@le??? who knows) this one NPC interaction had me by the throat. feat: tw: canon courtesan/sex worker NPC, kink!reader, second person narration since the game is like that, hunky sneezy drow man, honestly a lot of build up for little payoff im sorry idk what happened. i also don't know the word count im useless (dialog is in-game dialogue up until the lil time skip to his room, then it's all me baybbyeee)

The drow is one of the most handsome you’ve ever seen. Not that you expected him to be ugly, of course. The fabled drow twins of Sharress’ Caress are known far and wide for their talents as well as their beauty. Its just, seeing them in person is quite different from sustaining on mere rumor alone. Sorn Orlith, as he introduces himself, is rather muscular for a drow. He stands nearly a good head taller than you with a broad, brazenly defined chest. His outfit is nothing more than a metal cage topped over his heavy shoulders and flared out down his sternum like witch’s fingers, pointing towards an abdomen taut with muscle.

His long skirt rides around his hips but you can still see the shadow of indents against bluish-gray skin there, as if they are inviting you to take a closer look. They likely are. Nothing about his appearance is not meticulously crafted to draw you in. From the slight sheen on his lips that are plush and naturally the color of ripe blueberries, to the way his wintry hair is falls effortlessly back from his face in perfect waves. He is a vision, and yet his eyes are not cold and imperious like you might expect. They’re warm. Inviting. Somehow kind, despite what kind of debauchery goes on in a place like this. 

You ask him how he ended up here in the first place. Apparently, the Underdark isn’t kind to male courtesans. Also, he was bored.

“The entirety of drow culture is obsessed with bondage beyond reason. While such activities have their charms, I yearned to reach greater depths.” He gives a dazzling smile. “And there is no society on this planet more laterally, imaginatively and confusingly depraved as that of Baldur’s Gate. Although of late, I do feel I’ve seen everything. Perhaps you’ll show me something new?”

Your throat goes dry. 

“I’m…glad you’re happy here,” you manage out. 

Sorn laughs, but not unkindly “I’d have to restrain myself far more than any play-bindings do if I worked in another field. This is a place where I can be myself boundlessly.” 

His arms widen, emphasizing the violet taut flesh of muscle in his shoulders and biceps. You do your best not to stare.

“There are so many who come to me speaking of a fixation that no one else has ever been able to share with them…” he leans close, “And never will again. 

He smells of bergamot and brandy. It’s intoxicating. “A once in a lifetime moment of passion. Every day. What could be better? Don’t you want to try it?”

You do. And he can tell. His grin widens, almost wolfish. 

“Trust me, you don’t want to miss my signature Menzoberranzan Love Trick.”

—

With the door to Sorn’s private room shut, you feel a sense of calm overwhelm you. The room is beautiful—long enough to be someone’s home, crystals and plants glowing in every corner, a bed surrounded by flowers, shadows in all the right places. It looks like it was plucked free from the most beautiful parts of the Underdark and brought here to Wyrms Crossing. It feels comforting. Safe. 

“Now, are you going to tell me about this little secret of yours? Or would you prefer to keep me in the dark?”

Sorn’s voice startles you and he slips a hand around your waist, nosing at your neck as he comes from behind you. He releases you at the reaction, but doesn’t make a show of it. He’s masterful at what he does. Reading his partner, gauging their comfort level, adjusting and maneuvering as necessary. Your blushing cheeks must give you away because he gives you an encouraging smile instead and reaches for your wrists.

“Come, let us sit first. I find it’s easier to talk like that.”

He leads you to the foot of the bed. The sheets are luxurious, obsidian satin, and the mattress sinks with your weight. He sits close, angling his body towards you, but not so close as to crowd you. Your knees touch. You can see his breath flexing the hardened muscles of his torso and chest as he lingers there, expectant but not impatient. His hands cover yours in your own lap.

“It’s perfectly all right to be nervous,” Sorn continues, “But I assure you, your secret is safe with me. And not only that, it is *treasured*. I meant what I said earlier. There is very little that surprises me these days. Should you present me with something unexpected, I will be noting more than delighted.” 

You avoid his eyes, despite how gentle they are. You’ve never said this in front of anyone. But he’s right. Odds are, there are multiple someones in Baldurs Gate who have stranger interests than you. Sorn has likely indulged them all and without complaint. As he said downstairs, he rather enjoys this aspect of his work. Still, your tongue is in knots as you work up the nerve to say it. Your eyes travel up from his chin to his perfectly shaped mouth, the cupids bow of his lips and then finally the long, aquiline shape of his nose. It’s a fine nose. Prominent on his face and somehow as elegant as the rest of him, it captivates your attention for a moment. 

When you realize you’ve been staring for a moment too long, the confession rushes out of you in a breath, “Sneezing.”

Your face feels like it might explode from the heat. Sorn blinks. You expect him to laugh, or tell you to leave the room, or some other horrible outcome but instead he merely tilts his head. His hands give yours an assuring squeeze.

“And what about it do you like, my love?”

You lean over with a groan. You truly cannot believe you’re having this conversation—but his warm chuckle sends something fluttering in your chest and you gather the courage to straighten back up again and look him in the eye.

“I’m…not quite sure, I just know I enjoy it,” you say carefully, “And when my partners do it.”

“Mmm,” he says, contemplating, “So you’d like it if I sneezed for you then?”

Your lips purse, holding the answer hostage in your throat. You nod helplessly instead. He laughs again and releases one of his hands to brush a knuckle along your cheek.

“Look how red you are, it’s positively darling. Was that all, little bird? That was what you were so afraid to tell me?”

You nod again, nearly in tears. It’s off your chest now and it feels incredible, but it’s also freeing in a way that makes you feel raw and exposed. He’s being so kind about it that you’re not quite sure how to react. Emotions clash together, warring for dominance inside the confines of your skull. 

Sorn seems to understand immediately. His hand skirts below your jaw and tips your chin up as he leans forward and captures your lips with his own. It’s a simple, nearly chaste kiss. So featherlight and innocent that it feels like the sun peeking through the clouds. “Shh, shhh,” he soothes as he pulls away, “I think it’s wonderful. I will say it’s the first time I’ve encountered it, but I think it’s quite endearing.” He pulls away a little further, leaving you breathless. His white smile gleams. “And what an exciting challenge besides!” 

He releases you fully and stands from the bed, his hands on his hips. He looks about the room, brow furrowed in concentration. You’re still a little dazed from the kiss, wondering how he manages to taste like brandy and sweetwine and smell as good as he does while also trying to get your brain to stop swimming. You blink a few times to get your bearings as Sorn stalks to one of his shelves.

“Now, the only trouble is—“ he starts as he rifles through a few things, “There isn’t much that makes me sneeze, I’m afraid.”

Your stomach wilts a bit. Perhaps it was too much to hope that this strapping drow would have a terrible allergy to lavender. Though, to be fair, he hardly looks like the type to be beset by anything so pedestrian. Sorn is so maddeningly put together. From his perfect hair, meticulous ensemble and finely crafted expressions, he is clearly a man that keeps up appearances. Decorum is important to him. Should he ever be laid low by an allergy, you imagine he would fight it with the all the dignity and stoicism he so proudly displayed. 

Still—you didn’t work up all this nerve just to get here and *not* have anticipated something like this happening. Shyly, you let your fingers linger over the vial in your pocket. 

“I…may have something that will help,” you say.

Sorn turns from the shelf with what looks like a raven feather in his hand, his eyes bright. He looks positively delighted at the news.

“Oh I love when my clients come prepared,” he says, “You are a dream.”

“We could try that first, though,” you say, gesturing to the feather. There’s definitely something to that idea and it’s already stirring a feeling in your belly that has you shifting on the bed and your heart rising. There’s no possible way Sorn can know this, but somehow you sense he does, because his eyes sharpen their focus on you and his grin goes syrupy. 

“Lovely,” he comments and returns to your side. As he sinks back into the mattress, he gestures a hand. “Is here all right? Or would you like to do it somewhere else?”

“Here is fine,” you choke out. The idea that this is happening, really happening, is making your brain turn to lightning. You can hardly wait. 

He holds out the feather to you, “I assume you’d like to do the honors?”

You nod. The feather has little weight to it, and it’s gorgeous up close. The black shimmers with hues of purples and blues in the low light, glimmering in the reflection of your eyes. You run your eyes along the length of it and then find yourself starting at Sorn again, heart in  your throat.

“Is it… all right if I touch you?” you ask. You lean forward, hand with the feather outstretched, but think you may need to position yourself a little closer and brace yourself on his shoulder to get a good angle.

“Darling,” he laughs. He suddenly seizes your wrist and brings you closer, lowering his voice near your ear. “You can do whatever you want to me.”

You gulp as he slides back, demure and innocent as if he hadn’t just made goosebumps appear along your arms and thighs with his words alone. A nervous smile paints your lips and you do finally take his shoulder in your hand. You’re kneeling almost into his lap at this point and to support you, he draws an arm around your back. It’s so intimate you’re almost dizzy with the closeness alone, and you haven’t even gotten to—

The feather brushes at the corner of his mouth and his mouth twitches in a smile. Even just that response alone makes your heart race. From there, you slowly move it up to the indent above his mouth, and then his septum. He wrinkles his nose, skin avoiding the stimulation on instinct before he wrests his control back. He smiles but says nothing, allowing you to continue. 

You draw the tip of the feather around one nostril. It quivers in response, but otherwise, Sorn’s eyes remained focused on you. You test a bit farther, drawing slow, soft circles. There isn’t anything for a few seconds, and then he starts to blink, irritated tears prickling in his eyes. He sniffs a few times and then has to cough, politely turning his head away on instinct as he does so. “Apologies,” he says and then grins, “What a strange sensation.”

“Are you all right?” you ask. 

“Very much so,” he nods, “Please, continue.”

You do, but to mixed results. You’re certainly irritating his nasal passages, but sadly not enough to make him sneeze. After a few minutes of attempting, all you’ve really done is making him cough and cry irritated tears. Disappointed, you’re about to give up when he takes your wrist again, holding the feather inside his nose.

“W-wait,” he says, “I had it for but a moment.”

Your heart stutters. Carefully, you twist the feather as you had been a moment earlier. His eyelashes, pale as new fallen snow, sweep his cheeks and a breath catches on the roof of his mouth. The hand that was around your wrist falls slack, fingers drifting down towards your elbow.

“Yes, I feel it,” he whispers. 

His grip around your back tightens and he draws in another breath. His eyebrows crumple and hoist upwards and his nose practically twitches. 

“Hh—hiiyh—“ 

As his expression snaps, you pull the feather away just in time. His head wrenches away as the sneeze whisks through him. 

“Hi-ISSHh!” 

It’s a spartan, nearly soft sound. Wet, given the amount of torture his nose has been put through for the last few unproductive minutes, but otherwise without frills or embellishments. It’s a very honest sneeze you think, but perhaps one he was not entirely prepared for. By his clenched teeth you think he might have held back at the last moment out of some sense of propriety. The way he lightly touches the backs of his knuckles to the underside of his nose in the aftermath and gives a delicate sniff further enforces your theory. 

Still, it was a sight. 

“Blessings,” you say, enraptured. 

Sorn recovers quickly and smiles at you. 

“Did you—snf—enjoy that? I am sorry it took so long.”

Your red cheeks are enough of a glowing recommendation, but you nod anyway. Feeling a little braver, and a little desperate for him now that you’ve seen him lose control the once, your hand slips down against his abdomen. The warm skin there flexes against your palm as he breathes in. He hums a soft noise of approval and clasps his hand over yours before leaning in to kiss you. There’s just the briefest moisture in the kiss, only you would ever notice it, and it sets your brain on fire. 

“Perhaps we should try your method instead,” he suggests when he pulls away for a breath, kissing a line across your jaw and to your throat next, “It might be more…productive.” 

You feel dizzy. His hand skirts along your thigh and meets the joint of your hip, squeezing with enough pressure to make you moan. 

“If you’re sure,” you say, “It can be…strong.” It’s only fair to warn him, after all. Everyone reacts differently, but you’ve never not seen it work on someone.

“All the better,” he hums against the hollow of your throat, nipping softly at the skin, “I simply won’t have you leaving here disappointed.”

You shift upwards to get access to your pocket. Sorn discards the sodden feather and watches with curious, eager eyes. When you reveal the tiny glass vial, he smirks. 

“I see,” is all he says before nodding his head toward the collection of pillows at the head of the bed, “Let’s get more comfortable first, shall we?”

Moments later, you’re lying side by side, both propped up by pillows and surrounded by the soft glowing plants and crystals that make a canopy of the bed. Sorn holds himself up on an elbow and examines the vial that looks comically small in his much larger fingers. You lay your cheek against one of the pillows and stare up at him, still feeling your heartbeat pound in your ears. You’d thought this would have gotten easier after seeing it happen once, but the idea of seeing it happen again is almost worst. Now that you know the sound, know how his lip curls a little, how his eyes flutter—all you want to do is see it more, see him unravel.

“So, just a pinch of this?” Sorn asks. He seems more curious than anything. Like he doesn’t quite totally believe that whatever is in there is actually going to be able to make him sneeze.

“Mhmhm,” you say. 

He grins and sets to work. A hefty pinch between his thumb and forefinger is gathered and then quickly—and in a rather sophisticated manner—snorted up one nostril. It doesn’t seem to cause him any harm like you worried it might, and he merely clears his throat once it’s over and brushes his hands off. 

“Oh, it’s lovely,” he comments, “Almost medicinal.” 

You can’t answer him because you can’t breathe. You’re waiting for something. Anything. A flicker of his expression, a quiver of his nose, something to indicate that the powder is set to work. But nothing happens. Sorn merely looks back at you questioningly. 

“When does it start to take effect?” he asks.

“Usually right away.”

He frowns, “Oh. Perhaps I should take more?”

You saw the amount he took. It was already sizable. Any more and you’d be concerned for him. You quickly shake your head, “No, I wouldn’t. Maybe it’s just…slow to start.”

Sorn huffs, his disappointment mirroring your own. He sets the vial aside and turns back to you, pulling you flush against his body. That’s still nice, sneezing or no. Every hard angle of him presses against you and the heat of his skin makes you shudder. He kisses you deeply and you can still smell the slightly earthy scent of the powder on him as you return it. 

“I’m terribly sorry,” he murmurs close to your mouth, “I’ve done nothing but disappoint you tonight.”

You blink up at him, “That’s not true!” 

He sighs and tucks a bit of your hair behind your ear. “It is, but I promise you, I will make it up to you. We still have plenty of time, and there are other things we can do, besides.”

Sorn dips an arm under you and pulls you flat against the bed, hovering over you. He grins down at you and starts to remove your top. 

“Is this alright?” he asks softly.

You nod, nearly choking on your want for him. Everywhere he uncovers bare skin, he lavishes in kisses until you’re bare from the waist up and the two of you are flesh against flesh. His skin sears yours with warmth. He trails fingers down your sternum and then down to your bellybutton, then lower. 

“You are a delightful little thing,” he says. His voice is velvet, and his warm breath paints down your ribs as he follows the path of his hand. 

You feel the gasp as much as you hear it. It’s a sudden, reckless thing—so quick that neither of you are prepared for it. Sorn’s expression flinches for just a moment and he barely has time to turn his head to the side before a sneeze completely overtakes him—misting your side in the process. “hh-EDSHHH’iuh!” 

You’re stunned. Sorn looks like he might be too, if not for the telltale signs of another impending sneeze close behind the first. He shifts and places a hand on your hip as he sits up a little. You watch as his upper lip curls over bright teeth and his nostrils flare once before he wrenches away from you successfully this time. “hhHH’RRSCCH!” This one is stronger than the last, more voice to it. It shakes him and you by extension on the mattress.

“Bless you,” you say, but he shakes his head. His hand squeezes your hip gently as if to say ‘not yet’. “Hih-ih!”

His fist goes to his mouth before you can stop it, and he squelches the last sneeze into submission. His eyes cinch shut and he bends at the waist, shoulders trembling as the colossal sound is contained to nothing more than a whisper. “hHh-nGXST!” 

He opens his eyes, though somewhat warily. As if he’s not sure the tickle is quite gone yet. He gives a cagey sniffle and blots his knuckle under his nostrils, “Goodness.” Then, he turns to you and finds your gaze positively enraptured. He smiles. 

“I suppose it does work ah-after all!” He rubs at the tip of his nose for a moment and then flutters his eyes, “I do hope you’re ready for more because it seh—seems…” 

Your hand goes to his chest. You feel the swell of his breath deepen, the warm feeling of his skin moving under your fingers. Sorn seems to get the idea because his palm reaches up to cover yours. His fingers wrap around your palm as his breath continues to snag. You catch his eyes just for a moment before they slide back. 

“hHH’RRSCh’euh!” He trembles under your touch with the force of it. He lifts his head just barely, eyebrows canted desperately, and then pitches downwards again, spraying your arm with abandon. “hh’AEEShhh’ah!” 

“Such a tickle,” he says breathily as he recovers. He gives a wet sniffle and smiles at you, but it’s hazy, the look in his eyes already distracted by the mounting itch. But he doesn’t seem bothered by it. If anything, he’s enjoying the newness of the sensation. The break from monotony. 

His nostrils flare and he releases his hand to rub his knuckle against his septum once more. 

You feel a little bold for asking, “Are you all right?”

He nods, smiling. He tries to hold your eyes but the tickle steals his concentration once more. 

“Quite!Just—hh…sn’tsCHh’eeze-hhHH! H’RRSHC’hu!” 

You reach your other hand up to stroke through his hair and turn him a little more towards you as he prepares for another. He resists at first out of instinct alone, but adjusts in the moment it takes for the sneeze to have its way with him. As his breath snaps, he ducks his head in the space between you and releases it into your lap. “hh”hRRRASsh’chu!” 

“Bless you,” you say, smoothing back his hair. You crawl into his lap and he welcomes you without hesitation, securing your thighs around his hips even as his head tilts back for two more with barely a breath in between. He ducks them between the two of you but there isn’t much space. His hands clench against your thighs with each outburst. “hh-eHH’SCCHE’uh! h’RRSH’ue!” 

Blearily, he looks up. He’s dazed. Sniffly. His cheeks are indigo and the area around his nostrils is too. You kiss him, because he just looks so stupidly *kissable* and he murmurs a laugh against your mouth. 

“It is quite comforting thatyou find me attractive in such a state,” he sniffs once you pull away. 

“Very attractive,” you remind him.

He smiles, and continues smiling even as his expression flickers again. “Ah, one-hh more perhaps,” he says.  He raises a hand in front of his face and a rather tired sounding sneeze ripples through him. “hH’EDShh!”

“Bless you.”

“I don’t thhhink I’ve ever snhheezed so much in my life-hh!” He leans his forehead onto your shoulder and does away with using his hand to cover, opting to simply hold onto your hips and let the sensation take him. “hh’UEHDSHH’iu!” You stroke his bare back and feel his ribs expand beneath your fingers before tightening twice in quick succession. “hh’NGXT! nG’ssT!” 

He clears his throat after and lifts his head back up, adjusting you on his lap. “Ah, I should have asked, do you prefer if I hold them in or let them out? Often I don’t know which it will be until it happens but… perhaps I could try…try to—”

His eyes roll and he turns his head, giving you a clear view of his twitching profile. “If I could juhhst get through a sehh’ESsch!—sentence!” 

“I don’t mind either way, I just don’t want you to hurt yourself if you hold them in,” you say to try and spare him. 

“Oh, darling, it takes much more than that to hurt me,” he wriggles his nose handsomely and turns back to you with a devilish grin. His eyebrows raise. “And lo! A full sentence! The effects must be wearing off.” He sniffs experimentally and for the first time, his eyes don’t get hazy in the aftermath. 

You feel disappointment sink your heart like a stone. It was bound to wear off eventually. But before you can even lament the course of events, he pats your thigh and shifts you off his lap. 

“Come, where’s the vial?” 

You blink. Surely he doesn’t want to do more of that?

He seems to know exactly what you’re thinking because he taps the bottom of your chin and winks.

“Oh, we’re far from finished, love. Ready for round two?”

[elsfairy]

COOKING with Sevika;

I'd love to cook with her, what the fuck?

• At any given point, she will try distracting you. Either that being playing with your hair when you're mixing the ingredients for your cookies. Or taking, and hiding the things you needed.

• Will laugh watching you struggle to find whatever she tries to hide on the top shelf. Not your fault you're short as shit.

• Eventually she will help you.

• Can't help but find it amusing and adorable when you get excited about those stupid cookie cutters she bought you. (you were eyeing them up for weeks)

• Sevika loved cooking with you, but ask that woman to crack an egg she will walk away. She didn't like the feeling of it. The texture made her skin crawl. For you though? she would do it, somehow.

• Has a serious habit of hitting you on the ass with that stupid spatula. You weren't sure why, but she loved doing it. You didn't mind though.

• Secretly enjoys making cupcakes with you more than cookies, but just seeing how happy you are, makes her happy. So she is down to make anything with you. Again, but no touching eggs.

• Has a HUGE habit of rubbing the cookie/cake batter over your face. Literally anywhere she can find space, she is right there with it, waiting. She was indeed a brat when it involved cooking with you.

• "Hey, you look pretty hot with that stuff on your face sweetheart"

• Sometimes it didn't even have to be baking. Sevika was actually a really good cook, so some nights you would just be in the silent kitchen in each others presence, cooking your dinner.

• You can guarantee whatever plays on the radio, Sevika will hum along while adding those stupid (yet cute) sparkles on her cookies. She loved it secretly.

• Cooking and baking always made you miss your family, so she would be right there wrapping her arms around you, reassuring you that it's okay.

• The days you didn't feel like cooking because you weren't feeling okay, Sevika would do everything in her power to at least get you into the kitchen, just to be there with her. She loved when you were around. You always agreed because well, you loved her and loved seeing her happy.

• She was always the one to accidently burn herself when using the stove or oven. Literally every single time.

• "Most scariest woman in Zaun, and you can't handle this?" You always teased her with no doubt.

• She is the type to admire you from afar when you're zoned out in your own world.

• Holds you, even after you're both done with making food.

• Steals more cookies from the tray for later when you're not looking. You aren't that blind though. You know her antics, in & out.

• Tells you over and over that you always make the best food/treats, even though you tell Sevika that she was in fact the better cook between the two of you guys.

• The rest of the night is just spent cuddled up together, eating your cookies and listening to the rain against the window.

Note; I'll be honest. Im slowly losing my shit. As much as i would love to be able to, i cannot fathom on how to write a full 3/4k word fucking Sevika x Reader imagine. For the ever loving Christ, i cannot get into doing one. It starts off fine, then my ADHD will come out, and i will end up writing a bunch of random words and end up stressing myself out. Head canons for me, are easier because this way i can somehow make it make sense? i think, idk. The small imagines are fine but when it comes to actually writing one with a full plot, adding more characters, set fucking scenes? i panic because i am very insecure with my writing, how it looks and sounds. I also fucking suck at writing smut. So there is that :/ Last night i deleted like 5 drafts because it just downright sucked ass. I've been staring at my cooking with Sevika head canon for 3 hours (This one) and im just loosing my fucking mind, because i feel like it's just not good enough but oh well, enjoy it. Sorry for the rant.