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redtsundere-writes · 3 months ago

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Part 19: Take Control

King!SukunaRyomen x Servant!FemReader

Summary: You used to be just another servant among the army of humans operating under the command of the terrible king, Sukuna Ryomen. An ordinary human who only knows how to wash, clean and cook. Until one day, he notices something in you that you hadn't seen before.

Tags: MDNI. +18. Murder. Blood. Cannibalism. Sukuna Ryomen Is The Warning Itself. Nudity. Sexual Display. Vaginal. Fingering. Sometimes fluff, sometimes angst. Beta read.

Word Count: 4452 words.

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The king wasn't going to show up for breakfast again. You sighed, crossing your arms in disappointment. You had been eating alone in the dining room for a week now. Well, you weren't completely alone. Mrs. Inoue was always by your side since she became your lady-in-waiting, but it wasn't the same. A week ago, you saw the king from time to time, but now, it was like he disappeared in thin air. Despite having a whole castle, he lived in the office. Something wasn't right.

Wasuke handed you breakfast like every morning. A small fruit salad with honey. It looked delicious, but you weren't in the mood to eat. Uraume was there to make sure the breakfast was up to your standards. It was already a ritual of mere presence because they knew you were fascinated by anything they cooked for you.

"The king isn't coming, is he?" You asked the king's right-hand.

"No, he asked me to bring breakfast to the office," they answered.

“Do you know why he locked himself in the office?” You asked reluctantly.

“After Naoya's invasion, the king has been replacing the curses we lost in battle,” Uraume answered the only thing they knew.

Uraume was losing its touch. It's one thing that they didn't know you, but it's quite another that they didn't know the king anymore. After the bet, their ego had dropped considerably. They didn't know what to believe anymore. This new attitude of the king of locking himself in his office to work was new. Uraume had tried to ask him about it, but Sukuna kept shutting them up because it wasn't their business. The king was a strange curse. No, everyone was acting strange.

“Nonsense,” you muttered, getting up from your seat annoyed. “I'm not hungry. The servants can share my breakfast.” You left the room. Uraume returned to the kitchen, they were fed up with all this. Mrs. Inoue followed you loyally as several servants came to pick at your breakfast.

The change from maid to lady-in-waiting had been a pleasant one. She had left her housework to chat with the young lady all day, she ate in the same room as Kenjaku and Commander Mahito, and she had her own room with a large bed and a private bathroom. She had a much more comfortable life thanks to her best friend in the castle. However, it made her sad to see you so distressed because the king had not yet proposed to you. Unfortunately, she could do nothing to fix that situation.

“I will go talk to Master Kenjaku, why don’t you go relax in the game room while I talk to him?” You asked the lady once they left the dining room.

“As you command, lady.” She bowed to you before you retreated down the hall.

She also did not understand why King Sukuna had not proposed to you. You had accomplished everything he had asked of you and exceeded any royal expectations. What else did you need to do to get the king to ask for your hand? I had no idea. It was just a matter of waiting for a positive outcome.

You knocked on the door to Kenjaku's room, which was on the guest room floor. In fact, it was the room you were cleaning when King Sukuna gave you your first direct order. That emotional day when you felt his strong arms embrace your body for the first time. Why were you remembering that now? Kenjaku was quick to open the door for you.

"Good morning," her teacher greeted you.

"The king is avoiding me," you declared. Kenjaku hit your head with the side of his hand. "Ouch!"

"You need to stop being so rude. Greet me as it is reciprocated," Kenjaku scolded you.

"Good morning, master," you greeted him submissively with a bow.

"Much better." Kenjaku returned to his usual smiling self. "Now tell me, why do you think the king is avoiding you?"

"It's obvious!" You exclaimed in frustration. “He doesn’t eat breakfast with me anymore, he doesn’t watch my training sessions, and he lets everyone but me into his office. Every time I want to go in he tells me, ‘No, go study,’” you quoted him, imitating his signature authoritarian voice.

Kenjaku knew this conversation would come sooner or later. He stepped aside for you to enter the room to talk in private. His room was smaller than yours, or at least it looked smaller as it had a large table in the center with several plants, scrolls, and books piled on it. It had a bookshelf with the books he had borrowed from the library, a single bed at the back, and several candles lit around it. It seemed like you had interrupted him while he was working.

“Maybe he’s busy,” Kenjaku commented, closing the door behind him.

“Uraume said that too, but I don’t think that’s the reason why. I repeat, he talks to everyone but me,” you explained, taking a seat on one of the wooden chairs.

“What a riddle,” Kenjaku approached the table, where a teapot and matching cup sat. “Maybe you did something that made him angry, do you have any idea what it could be?” Kenjaku asked you, pouring you a cup of tea.

You thought about when your relationship with the king got worse, right after your sister's death. It was when the king stopped hanging around you, you thought he was busy like everyone else, but now it was at a ridiculous level. That must be the reason.

“Well, I threatened him with an arrow during the fight with Yorozu,” you commented, head down.

“I doubt that's it,” Kenjaku offered you a cup of green tea. “The king is a warrior by nature. He knows what it's like to have adrenaline turn you into a killing machine. More than getting angry with you, he made you earn his respect knowing that you would kill your sister on that occasion,” he hypothesized. “Or he would have killed you instantly. It could be either of those two options.”

So if it wasn't that, what else could it be? The battle had ended in your favor, it healed your wounds, it allowed you to search for your sisters… “Yes, I did have family,” you remembered the conversation you had in the human commune. A pang of guilt attacked your chest.

“Maybe I didn't make him angry, but I did make him sad,” you caressed the hot cup with your thumbs. Kenjaku looked at you confused. “We talked about family and he told me that he remembered his. He might feel vulnerable because I'm the only one who knows.”

“It could be. Sukuna must not be so used to letting go of his feelings like that,” Kenjaku suggested.

“I feel terrible…” You said heavily.

“The king has killed thousands of families, destroyed villages and conquered a king of his equals, you shouldn't feel bad for him,” Kenjaku tried to lighten your mood, but it didn't work.

Even though he had done all those atrocities, he still had feelings like everyone else, be they humans, sorcerers, or curses. You shouldn't have said something so insensitive to him, you weren't like that. Even though you were going to marry him, it doesn't mean you have to be the same as him... Right?

“It will be fine, just give him time,” Kenjaku advised you as he stroked your hair to stop you from thinking about it.

Spring had finally arrived. The crows sang their solemn songs, the wind felt less icy against your skin, and the grass in the courtyard looked greener than ever. Mahito threw a punch at your face. You dodged each of his blows, moving your torso to the sides with your fists in front of your head and shoulders in guard, just as he had taught you in previous days. Your combat teacher threw another punch that hit your side. You stepped back but did not break, you took it like a true warrior.

In addition to knowing how to use the bow, you had to learn how to fight, so he appointed the commander as your new teacher. Sukuna did not lie in his letters when he said that you learned quite quickly. It was only your first week of sparring against him, and you could keep up with him in terms of defense, something very difficult for others he's trained to do. So far, it was the hardest thing you've had to learn, but you were willing to give it your best.

Mahito threw a combo at you that left him wide open, so you let yourself get hit to get into his square and hit him with all your strength in the stomach. You weren't that strong yet, so it only tickled him. Having you so close, Mahito kicked your stomach, causing you to fall to the ground. You rolled on the grass until inertia stopped you. You held yourself while Mahito mocked you.

"You didn't see that coming, did you?" He joked as he leaned towards you.

"Not fair! This is the first time you've kicked me," you complained as you caught your breath.

“You know what they say: 'In love and war, anything goes’” Mahito continued to mock you. “In a battle, they will attack you with everything, and you should be ready for anything,” he explained, more seriously this time.

Mahito noticed that you were recovering quickly. A person who had just had the air knocked out of them would take longer to recover, but he was surprised that after a couple of minutes you were fine. Mahito helped you up, pulling you by the arm carelessly as if you were a rag that had fallen from his grasp.

“I'm surprised that you have good stamina,” Mahito commented.

“I think it’s been all the years of training I had with my mother,” you joked as you wiped the grass residue off your dress.

“So you’ve trained before,” Mahito commented in surprise, not picking up on your sarcasm.

“Something like that, it was dance rehearsals,” you explained.

“Dancing isn’t training,” he scoffed.

“It’s a complicated discipline.”

“How complicated can it be to do this?” Mahito began dancing like an idiot, randomly moving his limbs like a puppet. You burst out laughing at how silly he looked.

“Not that kind of dancing. My mother made me practice ballroom dancing for the neighboring kingdom’s social events,” you explained.

Going to a ball for your family was more complicated than it looked. It was a feat they did at least twice a year. First they had to get the white dresses like everyone else, then they practiced the dances as if it were a mating ritual, and then it was the trip to the neighboring kingdom, the Gojo kingdom. It was a three-day trip for a single night, full of possibilities.

“Ballroom dancing? What is that?” Mahito asked, tilting his head in curiosity.

“It’s a type of dance that is danced in pairs at social events,” you explained. You smiled as soon as a funny idea occurred to you. “Do you want me to teach you?”

Mahito couldn’t believe he had agreed, but there he was, in the great hall, expectant, while Kenjaku settled in front of the piano to begin the practice. Mahito felt out of place in an unknown world. His life, until now, had been leading troops to annihilate humans left and right. Human complexities were not his thing; he preferred direct brutality with some foreplay to make it more interesting.

“Thank you for supporting us with the music,” you thanked Kenjaku with a smile.

“It’s a pleasure,” he smiled at you. “Besides, it’s about time someone taught him some manners.”

Their eyes both fell on Mahito, who was picking his nose with unusual dedication. Despite being one of the most powerful commanders among the curses, his childish attitude baffled everyone. He didn’t take anything seriously unless King Sukuna himself ordered it; before him, Mahito showed genuine respect, as if Sukuna was the only beacon in his sea of inner chaos.

“What piece do you want me to play?” Kenjaku asked you, sitting on the stool in front of the piano.

“Well, I’m going to teach him how to waltz,” you answered.

“How about I start with The Second Waltz*?”

He sat back on the stool, his back straight, and placed his hands on the piano keys. The wood creaked slightly under his weight. A classical melody, known to him by heart, began to fill the room. The notes wove through the air. They were joyful and precise, marking the beats with an elegance that only constant practice could achieve. That song, perfect in its simplicity, seemed designed to teach a beginner how to dance, to move to the rhythm of life itself.

Sukuna looked up at the cheerful melody filtering in from his office. Despite the closed door, the notes reached him, musical whispers dancing from afar. There was only one person in the entire castle capable of extracting such beauty from the piano, and that person was you. The image of you sitting in front of the ancient instrument filled his mind. He imagined your fingers gliding gracefully over the keys, as if caressing intimate secrets. The game room, with its tall windows and curtains fluttering in the wind, became a magical setting. Shadows danced on the walls, and the dust suspended in the air seemed to surrender to the music.

Not seeing you during that week had been torture. He longed to have breakfast with you, to chat in the afternoons, or even to face you in another game of chess. However, he knew that he could not allow himself to fall into temptation. Discipline stood between him and the desire to meet you again.

The song continued to float in the air, a delicate reminder of your existence. Each note was like an invisible thread connecting his thoughts to you. In his mind, it traveled in circles, recreating the mental image that brought him peace. It was his indication that you were okay, that the world continued to spin in its usual orbit.

He put the document he was reading away in the drawer of his desk. The wood creaked under his fingers, as if it also longed to be part of the melody. He leaned back in his chair, letting the music envelop him completely. He closed his eyes and allowed himself to get lost in the notes, as if he were floating in a river of sounds.

He took his time to imagine you better. Your fingers, agile and precise, traveling over the piano keys. The light from the window, filtering in softly, creating sparkles on your small silver accessories: a necklace, perhaps, or earrings that sparkled like tiny stars. And your back, standing tall with an elegance that defied gravity, as if you were a professional pianist in the midst of an intimate, personal performance.

The song faded away, dragging with it the magic he had woven in his mind. Reality, raw and unadorned, returned like a cold wave. His once-luminous smile subtly faded as he realized his brief respite of fantasy had come to an end. He couldn’t afford to waste any more time; duty called. With a sigh, he reached for the next document on his desk again.

Before he could dive into the printed words, the same melody began to resonate again. Another smile, shy and rebellious, tried to creep onto his face. But he stopped it immediately, as if he feared vulnerability would weaken him. He brought his hand to his forehead, feeling the disappointment and sweet agony of being trapped under the spell of his own memories. How many times had he wished to erase those invisible notes that haunted him?

The melody persisted, enveloping him like a warm breeze. But it wasn't just music that resonated within him; it was a longing, an eager need that he couldn't satisfy with food or trivial distractions. No, what he truly longed for was to see you again. Not from the safe distance of the window, like he usually did when watching your training sessions with Mahito. No, this time he wanted to be closer. He wanted to study every detail of your face, as only he knew how.

The trail of musical notes led him to the game room, but as he cautiously opened the door to avoid you noticing his presence, Sukuna found himself in an empty space. Neither you nor the piano were there. He followed the trail, like a hunter after prey, until he reached the great hall. The door was ajar, and he entered, desperately seeking your proximity.

Little by little, you entered his field of vision. His mouth parted as he saw the scene unfolding in front of him. Mahito and you were spinning in circles around the hall. He held you by the waist, and you by the shoulder. Your hands intertwined, synchronizing your steps to the rhythm of an invisible melody. Sukuna clenched his fist, feeling the fury bubbling inside him. You were too close, and it was unbearable for him.

Your dress, light as a butterfly's wings, fluttered with each turn. The notes of the song guided your movements, marking every third beat with an elegance only they could perceive. It was a secret pattern, a language shared between two souls dancing in the dim light. Sukuna was beginning to understand why you had wished to attend the Zen’in ball. Your smile, radiant and genuine, evidenced your happiness at moving so fluidly.

You had taught Mahito how to do a natural turn, the most basic step in any choreography. The natural turn is a popular feature in the slow waltz that involves a full turn to the right, followed by a pivot turn and a step to the side. You practiced it over and over while counting in your mind to ensure that Mahito’s body would never forget it.

“Now push me away from your body,” you instructed Mahito.

You were supposed to hold hands and take a step back. Instead, he obeyed you to the tea, abruptly pushing you by the shoulders. You stepped back at an unexpected turn, blinking a couple of times at the abrupt offense.

“I think I should have been more specific,” you thought out loud.

You were about to approach Mahito again, the music still vibrating in your bones, when you noticed an imposing presence at the entrance to the great hall. You caught a glimpse of King Sukuna out of the corner of your eye, and the world seemed to stop. Two forces collided in that instant: yours, full of life and melody, and his, dark and voracious. Both were surprised to find themselves face to face. Sukuna, with his gaze sharp as blades, scrutinized you as if he could read your deepest secrets. You, with your heart still beating to the rhythm of the song, felt trapped in his aura of danger and desire to see him again.

“My king, wait!” you exclaimed, running after him. Kenjaku stopped the song to follow you with his gaze.

The corridor stretched out before you, silent and austere. The light from the chandeliers flickered, creating dancing shadows on the marble walls. But he was no longer there. You could have attributed his presence to imagination, to the echoes of the music still vibrating in your mind. Yet something in you refused to accept that easy explanation. Your heels clicked urgently as you moved forward. The air grew thicker, as if the castle itself held you back. But you did not stop. You were sure you had seen him, that his sharp eyes had scanned you from the gloom. Why had he appeared at that moment? What secrets did he hide in the shadows?

“My king!” you shouted from the other side of the hall.

King Sukuna found himself trapped in the doorway, the doorknob cold beneath his fingers. His eyes met yours. There was no escape; you had caught him just as he was about to disappear into his shadowy haven. You approached with a quick step, determination shining in your gaze. He could imagine what you would say to him. After all, he had ignored you for a whole week, as if the melody and the twirls in the great hall meant nothing.

“Do you know how to dance?” You asked him. Sukuna arched his eyebrow at the question.

“No,” he answered honestly.

“How will you enjoy the ball if you don’t know how to dance?” You joked with a smile before offering him your hand, asking him to grant you a dance.

The air in the small office became thick, charged with expectation and secrets. Sukuna and you, two opposing forces, met in a silent duel of gazes. His red eyes, like burning embers, scanned you from head to toe with an intensity that made you feel naked before his scrutiny. You, on the other hand, smiled sweetly at him. It was not a flirtatious or provocative smile; it was an invitation to calm, a gesture that was intended to dispel the nerves that tormented him. Because, despite his façade as the king of curses, you knew that there was also a human part.

“Introduce yourself with a bow,” you asked in a whisper, afraid of sounding too demanding.

The great hall became an intimate stage, and the music floated in the air like a shared sigh. Sukuna, with his unexpected elegance, leaned forward, obedient to the invisible melody. You, with nerves and excitement intertwined, delicately took the skirt of your dress. You approached at the same time, like two souls synchronized by a capricious destiny. You indicated to him in nervous whispers how he should get into position, a complicated task considering that the king has 4 arms. You decided that he would take you by the waist with his lower hands, while his upper hands took your hand and lower back. His gaze found yours, and in that instant, everything else disappeared.

“You will be the guide. You will decide all the movements we will do from now on and I will follow you,” you explained your position in the dance. “A perfect role for you,” you joked.

You explained to Sukuna the same thing you had to Mahito: how to perform the natural turn in the waltz. You counted the beats to the imaginary music, your words flowing like notes in the air. Sukuna, always attentive to detail, watched his feet with concentration, as if each step were a crucial piece in a game of chess.

The office transformed into a small stage. Chandeliers flickered, creating dancing shadows on the walls. The wooden floor creaked beneath their shoes as they spun. There was no real music, only the echo of the melody that resonated in your minds, guiding you. Sukuna and you moved in an imaginary circle, like two comets caught in a celestial dance. The king of curses, so accustomed to brutality and darkness, now let himself be carried away by the grace of your instructions.

The steps multiplied, as if the music itself guided them into unknown terrain. They started with the full spin, Sukuna spinning with you in an impromptu hug. The room seemed to shrink around you, as if you were in a world apart, where only they and the melody existed. It was the first time Sukuna had tried something for the simple fun of it. His life had been marked by fighting, blood, and darkness. But now, in this little corner of reality, he allowed himself to be something more. Your sweet words encouraged him to keep going.

Sukuna thought he was fooling around with you again, but taking your body was enough of a reminder that this was real life. Your heart hammered in your chest with every brush against your back. His touch, always empathetic, seemed to understand the secrets you hid beneath your skin. It wasn’t like when he took other objects; no, his hands were different. Large and warm, they glided with a familiarity that took your breath away. He didn’t need to move his palms; his mere presence was enough to travel every inch of your body.

You guided him to hold your weight to lower your torso to the ground to finish the dance. You dropped your graceful arm, waiting for the king to return you to the position to finish the dance, but he didn’t. You looked up, his eyes hyper-fixated on you. Your body was pressed against his in an unusual embrace. A few pink hairs fell over his face, so you helped place them behind his ear. The tension was in the air, and they only needed a sweet gesture to cut it. Sukuna, in a burst of desire, pulled you close to his face to kiss you.

“My king?” Uraume, entering the office, interrupted the moment.

Sukuna was instantly embarrassed by the idea of being seen in such a vulnerable way, that he suddenly released you, letting you fall to the ground. You stifled a groan of pain as the king regained his composure to address Uraume, who was carrying a silver tray with lunch and a face of confusion. Unlike Sukuna, Uraume had no idea what they were seeing.

“What's wrong?” He asked.

“Nothing's happening, Y/n just had something in her eye.” Sukuna quickly excused himself to avoid looking like a lovesick idiot in front of his right hand, pushing you away to receive the tray.

“Nothing's happening.” That sentence ruined the moment completely. Humiliation consumed your cheeks as you were on the ground. You couldn't believe that the king who once held you in his arms had now let you go. You bit your lower lip to keep from crying. You ran out of the office to go to your room and pretend that none of that had happened.

"That doesn't seem like nothing," Uraume commented as they watched you flee down the hallway.

“Shut up,” Sukuna scolded before roughly pushing them out of the office. Uraume only backed away before the king slammed the door in their face. He couldn’t believe that just happened. “What’s wrong with everyone?!” they thought, frustrated with the situation.

Sukuna pressed his back against the door and sighed exasperatedly. He smiled to himself as he slowly stopped acting on his instincts. Instead of kissing you, he let go, that was a good start. He was regaining his self-control after torturous weeks of being a hopeless lover, but if that was the case, why was he blushing completely?

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simdertalia · 11 months ago

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🦕 ACNH Museum Fossils Set 3 🦕

Sims 4, base game compatible. 24 items | Most fossils consist of more than one piece. Just use the bb.moveobjects cheat to line them up. Most of these items are high poly.

I hope you enjoy!

Always suggested: bb.objects ON, it makes placing items much easier. For further placement tweaking, check out the TOOL mod.

Type “acnh museum fossils 3" into the search query in build mode to find quickly. You can always find items like this, just begin typing the title and it will appear.

Download all or pick & choose:

📁 Download all or pick & choose (SFS, No Ads): https://simfileshare.net/folder/211062/

📁 Alt Mega Download (still no ads): https://mega.nz/folder/tk4h0QSb#b1l7dm4HDpV_ZC9HwNsBFg

📁 Download on Patreon

Will be public on February 17th, 2024 💗

Happy Simming! ✨ If you like my work, please consider supporting me:

★ Patreon 🎉 ❤️ |★ Ko-Fi ☕️ ❤️ ★ Instagram📷

Thank you for reblogging ❤️ ❤️ ❤️

@sssvitlanz @maxismatchccworld @mmoutfitters @coffee-cc-finds @itsjessicaccfinds @gamommypeach @stargazer-sims-finds @khelga68 @suricringe @vaporwavesims @mystictrance15

-Museum Fossils Set 1 (public from day of post) -Museum Fossils Set 2 (public from day of post) -Pamphlet Holder from Reiki Set ☄️Don’t forget the meteor impact display!

The rest of my CC

#s4cc #ts4cc #sims 4 museum #sims 4 dinosaur #sims 4 archaeology #sims 4 fossil #sims 4 fossils #sims 4 maxis match #sims 4 object #sims 4 historical #simdertalia

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ador3rin · 7 months ago

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4:30am | happy birthday, dumbass

pairing : bakugo katsuki x f!reader

tags : fluff, childhood friends to lovers, college!au, extremely self indulgent

tw : alcohol usage (legal)

wc : 4452 words

once a year, every year, katsuki breaks his nightly routine of heading to bed at 8pm sharp in favour of sitting and waiting for the clock to countdown to midnight. the boy is dressed and out of the door by 11:45pm.

glancing down at his phone to check the time, a warm breath escapes his lips as he comes to a stop, staring up at your bedroom window as he quietly opens the gate and heads for the front door. he doesn't knock, there's no need. the door swings open just as he shuts off his phone that reads 11:59pm, and he's met with your grinning face.

"happy birthday, dumbass." bakugou grumbles, tearing his eyes up off the groud to take in the way the moon delicately shines upon your features. your eyes form crescents and you laugh softly, impatiently ushering the male inside before the chilly night air has another chance to bite at his flushed cheeks.

inside, you'd already prepared your living room for the 'ultimate movie night’ as you liked to put it. the couch was practically engulfed by a mountain of pillows and plushies, topped off with blankets thrown atop haphazardly. "i can’t believe your dumb ass is 16." katsuki scoffs as he makes himself comfortable, throwing a handful of popcorn into his mouth. “this is for you, or whatever.” he shoves something soft and orange into your hands, eyes avoiding yours.

an orange fox stares up at you with beady little eyes, and you immediately recognised it’s lopsided little face. “katsuki! did you go back for him!?” you question with excitement, plopping down besides your friend and cooing over your gift. you had stopped by an arcade a few days ago with bakugou, and spent almost half your allowance on desperately trying (and failing) to win the toy, whining miserably on the walk back home.

“tch, no. i just had some free time yesterday. it was easy peasy.” the blonde boasts with a cocky grin to match his tone. he’d in fact demanded some extra money off his old man, and went back there on a mission to bring home the ugly thing. “now are we gonna watch this stupid lion movie or what?”

your arms fling around him for a quick thank you hug that leaves his cheeks warm and ears red, before readying yourself for what would probably be the hundredth viewing of your favourite movie–the lion king. bakugou had recently admitted to never seeing it before, much to your horror, and you'd finally managed to get him to cave for your birthday.

the two of you settle into a comfortable silence as the movie begins, that’s only disturbed with bakugou’s snarky commentary. luckily, he eventually begins to fall quieter and quieter as his eyelids grow heavier and heavier. it was way after his bedtime after all. about halfway through the film, the sounds of his even breathing signifies that he's knocked out cold. stifling your laughter as you gently reach to shut off the tv, you let out a small yawn before relaxing into your side of the couch with your new plushie and falling into a peaceful sleep.

the next morning your mother discovers the two of you just as she'd expected to, a fond smile on her face as she snaps a picture of the troublesome duo to send to mitsuki. the two mothers gush over how cute their babies are and joke about how they’d wish you guys were as quiet together as when you were both asleep.

⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀ฅ^•ﻌ•^ฅ

there is a calm stillness that has settled over your household as your parents had long gone off to bed, but quiet sniffles break the silence as you furiously rubbed at your misty eyes, an aura of misery shrouding your frame as you gave yourself a once over in your bathroom mirror. you were moments away from turning 18 yet you looked a mess.

you’d thought you were handling your breakup rather well, but unfortunately the late night spiralling thoughts intertwined with feelings of both anger and hurt eventually brought you to tears. a gentle knock at the door notified you of someone's presence, and you were soon met with a familiar face.

concern adorned bakugou's expression, his brows furrowing as his chest tightened with a quiet rage. "happy birthday, dumbass." the soft tone of his voice betraying his intentionally agitating words, leaving them devoid of any hints of playful malice. heavy arms envelop you in a comforting embrace, and the dam you'd just managed to clumsily build in your eyes breaks in an instant, and tears began flowing once more. “i don’t know why i’m crying.” you admit with a huff, shaking your head in annoyance.

if he wasn't so preoccupied with being here with you right now, bakugou's almost certain he'd be heading towards that asshole's house, prepared to give the beat down of a lifetime. "he's a fucking asshole. i'll kill him." the blonde sneers mostly to himself, earning a breathy chuckle from you in response. "i'm almost tempted to let you." you respond dryly, looking up at him through wet lashes.

"let me?" he frowns. "the fuck do i need your permission for?" red eyes squinting at you with a grumble, releasing you from his hold. you roll your eyes in response, wiping your wet eyes with the sleeves of your hoodie. “okay, i’m done.” you announce, straightening your posture. “i’m not wasting anymore tears on that asshole, good fucking riddance!”. katsuki grins proudly, your resolve is admirable. he never understood what you saw in that loser anyway, you were way out of his league.

“thats my girl.” the blond pats your head roughly, making his way out of your bathroom with you in tow. “do you wanna, uh.. watch one of your stupid chick flicks or something?” his hand rubs at his neck, awkwardly shifting his weight from one foot to the other and you laugh.

“you can just say you enjoyed mean girls the other day ‘tsuki.” mischievous glint in your eyes as you look up at him with a teasing grin, and the sight of you finally smiling again was all he’d ever wanted.

“i fucking didn’t!”

⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀ฅ^•ﻌ•^ฅ

“hey yn, what are you thinking of doing for your birthday?” the pink haired girl asks curiously, immediately catching the attention of the other girl sitting besides you. “yeah! twenty one is a milestone, we should do something super fun!” ochako chimes in agreement, plopping her pen down onto her notebook. “how about a girls night out?” she suggests.

“ah, i’m not sure yet guys.” you laugh with a shrug. you had never really done anything big for your birthday before honestly, you were happy to just spend time with the people you cared about. no one asides from your parents were aware of your little yearly ritual with a certain hothead, and you’d gotten so used to spending the first few hours of every birthday with him that you never even thought about it–it had become second nature to the both of you. your friends chatter animatedly as they discuss potential party plans, unbeknownst to your wandering thoughts.

things were slightly different this year, you’d met both mina and ochako at the start of the year and the three of you quickly became an inseparable trio. you wondered if bakugou would be willing to attend any of the ridiculous plans the two girls were discussing.

“i don’t know guys, clubbing isn’t really my scene.” you chuckle, imagining loud booming techno music and a sea of sweaty bodies. “well, we could always just throw a house party instead? that way there wouldn’t be a bunch of strangers and we have complete control over the music!” mina, the infamous party girl suggests as she clasps her hands together eagerly.

“it’s only if you’re down though, obviously.” she adds.

“yeah, definitely! we’re happy to do whatever it is you want, it’s your day!” ochako reassures with a warm smile, putting down her pen on the journal she was just doodling in. you’d never really thrown a party before, but there was a first time for everything, no?

“okay. but you guys really have to help me, i have no idea what to do.” you give in, excitement growing at the possible new experience. “yes!” “of course!” the two girls cheer, immediately chattering up a storm about the millions of potential plans.

it had been just over two weeks now since you’d established your birthday party plans with your girlfriends, and surprisingly, quite a lot had been organised since. your parents agreed to go out with mitsuki and masaru and for the night, having their own little old people party before spending the night at their place.

you’d promised that you would only allow your closest friends to spend the night, and that you wouldn’t let things get too out of hand. katsuki had also put your parents at ease, promising to keep an eye on things and handling it if anything got out of hand.

and before you knew it, everything had fallen into place. all that was left to do was to actually host the damn thing, which you were admittedly feeling quite nervous about. you’d never really had all that many friends before, real, close friends that is.

being lumped together with bakugou katsuki for as long as you could remember was both a blessing and curse, and so you’d never really felt the need to venture out on your own socially speaking. you were mostly cordial and friendly with peers at school, but it was thanks to mina and ochako and their vast social circle that you actually begun really talking to new people.

you would be in for a rude awakening if those same new people didn’t actually consider you a friend the same way you do them, and you’d hate for the girls efforts to go to waste.

“oi, did you come over just to stare at my wall? if so, you’ve got plenty of your own at home.” katsuki breaks you out of your trance, sending a sudden flick to your forehead that leaves behind a stinging sensation.

“why are you always so damn violent! you’re never going to get a girlfriend this way!” rubbing at your head with a whine, you childishly scribble in the top hand corner of his pristine page of notes as petty revenge.

“FUCK OFF, NOW I HAVE TO REWRITE EVERYTHING!” there’s a deep exhale from bakugou’s lips and the annoyance fades from his expression, he looks over at you sitting across him at the dinner table. “you’re going to be fine. stop overthinking about your damn party when it hasn’t even happened yet.”

startled that he’d actually managed to pick up on your damp mood, your brows knit together as you feign ignorance, “i’m not overthinking it, i don’t know what you’re talking about.” katsuki raises a brow, so unconvinced that it’s almost laughable but you stubbornly avoid making eye contact.

“it’ll be fine cus i’ll be there.” the sentence falls from his mouth so effortlessly, a guaranteed reassurance that no matter what goes down he’ll be right there with you–as he always has been. sure, he may not understand your worry wart tendencies, but whether katsuki realises it or not, his strong sense of unwavering reliability leaves you with a small smile as you both return to peacefully studying. or, mostly peaceful studying.

⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀ฅ^•ﻌ•^ฅ

“are you sure my ass isn’t hanging out guys?” mina whines exasperatedly, neck craning round to see her back side in the mirror in front of her. “you look hot mina, stop fussing!” ochako chides, shifting her attention away from her phone for a moment. “izuku’s gonna be here soon.” she beams with adoration, liking the text he’d just sent.

“careful, if you look anymore excited he might mistake you for a lovesick schoolgirl.” the other teases, playfully tugging at ochako’s cheeks. you roll your eyes with a smile, amused by their antics and smooth out the pleats in your skirt, giving yourself a final once over before turning to seek your friend’s approval.

you’d thought that you looked fine–cute even, but the sudden silence causes a bundle of nerves to begin forming in the pit of your stomach. maybe your eyeliner wasn’t even? or your hair was ugly? or maybe, the outfit you’d bought was actually really hideous and you should just call off the entire thing because no one’s going to want to come anyway and you’d really just be embarrassing yourself?

a sharp squeal pierces through your spiralling, and you see a blur of pink hair before mina is bouncing up and down in front of you clapping her hands together with glee, and you take this means she does approve. ochako has now joined along side you two, minus the squealing, and the three of you huddle around your floor length mirror, for few cute photos together before you’re all eventually shitfaced.

“we’re so cute! i love you guys! happy birthday yn! LET’S PARTY!” mina gushes, barely allowing herself to catch her breath in between sentences as she pulls the both of you in for a group hug. “you,” she suddenly juts her finger at your chest “little miss birthday girl, you have to let loose and have fun tonight. no responsibilities, capiche?”

“you do realise her actual birthday is tomorrow right?” uraraka giggles, and you hear someone knock thrice before a green mop of hair pokes his head in, izuku offers a small wave before informing you of the crowd that is now gathering downstairs.

it was hard to believe that this was actually your house, with the walls all dressed up with balloons and various cute party decor littering almost every surface. the strobing lights and thumping music perfectly emulated the vibe of a club, and with how busy it was starting to get you almost couldn’t tell the difference. you have got to get a thank you gift for the girls after this.

“what’re you staring off into space for ya dunce.” the ever so recognisable gruff voice comes from behind, the sudden proximity sending a chill down your spine. spinning on your feet, you’re met with katsuki’s stoic expression, and you allow yourself a mere moment to glance over his appearance for the occasion.

a loose white button-up drapes over his large frame, with a few top buttons popped open just enough that his toned pecs daringly peek through. it’s paired with one of his nicer black leather jackets, you’d never admit it to his face but it was always one of your favourites. it was practically made for him. he’d also opted for simple pair of darker blue jeans, not too formal but nice enough that you can tell he put a bit more thought into his outfit, rather than his usual t-shirt and sweats.

“take a picture loser, it’ll last longer.” your cheeks flush, and you tear your eyes away from him immediately, now having a staring contest with the brown hardwood floors instead.

“shut up. i’m just so used to you looking like a bum i was caught by surprise.” embarrassed that you were caught ogling your own best friend you grumble out a snarky response, praying that he lets this go on account of it being your (almost) birthday.

“so you admit it.”

“what?”

“you think i look nice.” he’s smirking, cocking a brow and feeling so damn smug you could practically taste it and you refuse to stroke his inflated ego any further. opting to cross your arms and huff, akin to a petulant child as you grind your teeth with a scowl. you can’t lie to him and disagree, but you’d rather die than give in and admit that he’s right.

“you look pretty.” katsuki’s tone is completely different, lacking any pompousness, and if you looked closely enough you would notice that the tips of his ears now burn a bright shade of red that rival his eyes. for the second time that night he’s caught you off guard completely. before you can stammer out a response, a loud red head stumbles into the room and throws a heavy arm around the both of you.

“happy birthday yn! this is some bash!” eijiro beams, tugging the two of you in for a three way hug before katsuki can wrestle him off. “woah, bro! you look so manly!” it was clear he’d had a few drinks before this encounter, and you chuckle at the obvious irritation painted across bakugo’s face.

you internally thank kirishima for interrupting the strange tension that had unknowingly begun to creep up on you and bakugo, and with an exhale of relief you’re filled with giddiness to match kiri’s tipsy state.

“will you do shots with me eijiro?” he’s still got his arm slung over you, not that you’re complaining of course, comfortable enough in your relationship with him to know that there’s nothing between you two but platonic affection.

“anything for my birthday girl!” the red head cheers, leading you to the kitchen with bakugou trailing behind begrudgingly. katsuki knows better than to get jealous over kirishima, hell, other than you he probably considers him his closest friend. but that doesn’t ease the tight burning sensation that he feels in his chest upon hearing eijiro’s words. who’s birthday girl?

hours had gone by and at this point you were now teetering dangerously on the line of tipsy, and just flat out drunk. kiri and mina were currently having a dance off in the middle of the dance floor, with a crowd hollering so loud you would be worried about a noise complaint if you weren’t so out of it yourself.

you were cheering and laughing uncontrollably, most of the control over your senses had disappeared with the last straight vodka shot you’d downed at your friend’s behest. it was your birthday! you needed to let loose so what’s a shot or two, or three? to be quite frank you had stopped keeping track of your drinks after the consecutive beer pong losses.

partying this hard was fairly uncommon for you, only feeling safe enough to let your guard down due to the fact that you were in the comfort of your own home, and thankfully katsuki had been glued to your side all night (to no one’s surprise). he had even shouldered some (most) of the penalties from the games as a result of your piss poor aim.

“hey, idiot. you need to drink more water, come with me.” katsuki appeared to be almost stone cold sober, but even he was not immune to copious amounts of alcohol coursing through his system. for some strange reason he had been feeling more.. irritable? for lack of better of word.

all night, any potentially wandering hands or even mere glances in your direction that lasted just a bit too long for his liking had been peeving him for the past hour or so. kaminari had even teasingly called him a guard dog a little earlier much to his misfortune, earning the guy some very colourful language and a punch to the gut.

you let out a whine, but compliantly allow him to lead you off the makeshift dance floor without further protest. his hand swallowed yours, enveloping your entire palm with zero difficulty which left you wondering just when he’d gotten so much larger than you. his sheer height and size caused the sea of people to simply peel apart, allowing the two of you an easy exit route.

lost in your thoughts, you’re brought back to reality when you’ve plopped down onto something soft, the familiarity of the walls makes you realise he’d brought you upstairs to your room. bakugou knew the layout of your home like the back of his hand, a privilege borne from the countless days of his childhood spent within these very walls, with you attached to his hip.

“drink.” the blonde commands, and you oblige, the cool water flowing down your throat offers your body some reprise from the hard liquor, and you’re left feeling surprisingly refreshed. once he was content with how much you drank, bakugou took the glass from your hands and placed it on your nightstand, besides the picture frame of the two of you as kids, sporting toothy grins and peace signs.

there’s quiet shuffling as he settles down besides your bed on the carpeted floors, a comfortable silence falling over the two young adults to the soundtrack of a far away thumping. you hum absentmindedly, glancing over at your clock that read 11:59pm and then down at katsuki who was already looking up at you.

he rarely got to see you like this nowadays, the height disparity between the two of you growing so vast over time that he almost exclusively looks down at you now. but as of this moment, a small part of him wishes that he hadn’t grown so tall, if only for the chance to look up at you the way he was currently.

the moonlight shone through your thinly veiled blinds, he knew from a young age that you were always her favourite, he knew from the moment he saw how she cupped your face in her rays ever so delicately, shining over your soft features and painting you in such a romantic light it was practically unfair. katsuki bakugou had come to the realisation that he had never once stood a chance.

“happy birthday, dumbass.” his usual commanding tone was soft, demure almost, as if he were trying to coax a small animal out of hiding. there was no one else but the two of you here in your bedroom right now, same as it had always been for all your lives, but this time, something else was there.

it was the poorly concealed tension that you both so carefully avoided, stuck in a constant loop of dancing around a topic that neither dared to breath a word of, in fear of speaking it into existence. your mind suddenly felt as clear as it had ever been, and you were consumed with a need to lean into him, just as you’ve always done, except this time around you fear that simply laying your head on his broad shoulders won’t be enough.

bakugou clears his throat, breaking his trance as he digs around in the pocket of his pants. “it’s for you. or whatever.” he mumbles, offering his enclosed fist up to you whilst vehemently avoiding eye contact. he had never shown that much interest in your walls before and you had half a mind to repeat the sarcastic phrase he’d offered you just a few days prior.

you stick out your palm inquisitively, and a second later there’s a dainty silver chain resting in the previously unoccupied space. a soft gasp falls from your lips as you carefully pick up the necklace, thumbing over the small heart pendant.

“‘tsuki, it’s, it’s so pretty.” you smile fondly, eyes flickering over to katsuki who is feeling uncharacteristically shy, despite telling himself it was just a stupid birthday present. it was normal for someone to give gifts for a birthday, so why did this feel so stupidly intimate?

“thought it’d look good on you. i dunno. i don’t know that stupid girly stuff so, if you want to exchange it for something else you can, i don’t care, i just-”

“since it’s my birthday now, can i ask for my birthday wish?”

“hah? don’t you always say you can’t tell me cus it won’t come true or some shit? plus there’s not even a candle to blow out so it doesn’t even make any sense.” you interrupt his incessant rambling by sliding down off your bed, clumsily settling besides him on the plush floor and gazing up at him with an unfamiliar glint in your eyes.

regrets and worries be damned, this tension had already begun to swallow you whole and with just enough liquid courage, you feel as if you could possibly take charge of it for once. your judgement may be clouded but your desire was not, you knew exactly what you wanted as of this moment, clear as the current night sky.

“can you kiss me?”

⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀ฅ^•ﻌ•^ฅ

a sweet caramel scent drifts around your kitchen, your favourite candle that you’d burnt earlier had already blanketed the apartment with a fragrant haze that’s begun blending in with the aromatics coming from the sizzling pan.

a long forgotten movie is playing in the background, providing white noise as you lean your head into your palms resting atop the kitchen island. the sizzling and crackling groans of the pan had almost put you intro a trance, as you admired the tall blonde figure seamlessly handling the kitchenware with expertise.

“ah.” a pair of chopsticks deposit a juicy and succulent slice of wagyu into your eagerly awaiting mouth, the perfectly prepared meat melting between your chewing as you writhe in your seat with joy.

“mm, that’s so good ‘tsuki! can i have another piece?” you open your mouth expectantly, eyes twinkling as you savour the taste left over on your tongue. the male doesn’t oblige however, instead bringing down two plates from the cupboard above.

“no, idiot. i’m done now anyway, just let me finish plating it and go sit at the dinner table. your staring is creepy.” your face scrunches at his denial, yet you slide off the stool and settle down at meticulously set dinner table.

a freshly purchased bouquet of your favourite flowers acts as the centrepiece, accompanied by a few lit candles and two carefully folded napkins besides matching silverware. your heart swells with joy as you take in all the minute details that were all so thoughtfully prepared, before katsuki sets down both plates of food.

he finally joins you over at the table, placing a chaste kiss to the top of your head before sitting down as well. it was definitely a late dinner, your eyes flickering over to the living room clock now reading 11:59pm while he cuts your food into bite sizes.

you absentmindedly twirl the dainty heart chain on your necklace, before katsuki draws your attention by gently cupping your cheek with his hand and softly stroking with his thumb, as if you were a doll made of porcelain. you never fail to take his breath away, he thinks to himself.

“happy birthday, dumbass. i love you.” he grins adoringly, reduced to nothing but a love struck man who will forever be captivated by just how beautifully you reflect the moon’s light.

# mew’s comments :

FIRST POST BACK LET'S GOOO!!!

i drafted this TWO (2) whole years ago on a lonely night before my birthday, as self-indulgence and actually finishing it now healed something in me :')

#ador3rin #ador3mha #bakugo katsuki x reader #bakugou katsuki #bakugo fluff #boku no hero academia #my hero academia #you are so precious to me katsuki

118 notes · View notes

itgirlgyu · 2 years ago

Text

txt as types of office romance!

pairing—txt ot5 x fem reader.

word count—4452. (900-800 each member.)

✸ as a self proclaimed romantic—enjoy!

YEONJUN...

that's a hot boss right there!

like everyone physically, verbally calls him as that

oh it's completely unethical.

but he's like flinging his wrist in 'aw stop it' but secretly he's buzzing like a vibrator

brags it to his group chat

completely clueless that everyone does it to get in his good side

and some *cough* *looks away* in his pants..

the type to go jogging in the morning and come to the office right after, glistening with sweat beads on his skin and the end of his hair

in his slutty biker shorts while jingling his pink tumbler and twirling his car keys on his fingers.

everyone just assumed that he'd be a nepo baby

but no!

he earned his way to the top!

everyone knows it because he gives that speech at every dinner party, year end parties, ceremonies, sport meet, team marathon—you just name it and he's there with his mic.

there's literally a mic in the office with his name encrusted in crystals; he bought it himself.

along with the poster of his interview and photoshoot with a reputable magazine for being the hottest boss of 20XX in all of south korea!

soobin: *reads off the smudged ink on his palms* yes our boss *squints* is mega *squints harder* bootylicious…

now you're like a low worker in the office

basically a contract worker

and you need to be hired bc you need to ✨pay your bills✨

so to get on the good side of your coworkers and your boss

you're like yes i'll do extra work

and they are like ok thank you bye and scurry off like little rats.

that's how you're stuck in the office late at night when everyone had left

rotting away in front of a spreadsheet

you're like this close to melting into your keyboard when you hear loud shriek from the far end of the floor

at first youre like it,,, damn am i crazy lol

so you get back to counting money your manager has spent on hoes and try to make it seem like a company spending

and then you hear it again

this times it's a reasonably higher in pitch and sounds a lot like your big boss, the so called hot boss of the branch

you try to ignore it

you really do, you DON'T want to interact with someone

but word in the office is that yeonjun is very generous and getting on the good side of the hot boss might get you a permanent position

also you don't think you can focus on the petty money laundering of your manager rn with your brain occupied by the hauntings of missed opportunities

so you stalk to his cabin and you're about to know when you hear in another loud screech

so on instinct you burst open the door of the cabin, and there's yeonjun perched on top of his expensive chair, with his even more expensive shoes

he points it to you and yells,

"A ROACH!"

you're reasonably hurt because sure you're a low paying contract worker and he's the head of the branch, and super rich but that doesn't give him the right to call you, a living respectable human being a filthy ins—

"there's a fucking roach there on the floor,"

you look at him dumbfounded for 3 seconds before it registers that he did not just call you an insect but there's actually one

so you're looking down to find the said culprit

"and it flies!"

that's when your heart started to beat faster

any insect that flies is a menace to the society but you need to be brave

for him and for yourself, and possibly a permanent position at the office.

you look around the floor and find the cockroach on the floor, without any movement. figuring out this is the time to attack

you take your heels and lunge on it, squashing the vile monster into a small mass of diabolic goo

"sir its gone!" you gleefully exclaim before even looking up

but when you do, you see the expanse of his enchanting eyes brimming with glittery gratification

and that's how you win the permanent working position

and also the hot boss's affection

although you are not quite sure how to handle the attention he has been showering you

especially the extra meaty lettuce wraps he hands you in the company dinner completely unaware of the kind of reaction it emits from his team

if you weren't already aware of the rumors that his eccentric behavior was sprouting, you were sure him giving your lousy manager the stink eye sealed the deal

the chattering around the office was so loud that HR had to be involved and he was explaining how ' you're HIS SAVIOUR! "

right at the moment you entered with some important papers and his eyes met yours once again

and that's when HE realized it was not just the gratitude but also something more

perhaps love,, <3

basically he's the last to know

some of the people who had a crush on him did give you dirty looks here and there but majority of the office were absolutely entertained in the way the hot boss was infatuated with you all while trying to act like himself normally

you found it cute too ngl

you were in love with him too, but you kinda wanna let it go on for a few days more before coming clean to him about your feelings.

when you reciprocate he gifts you a matching pink tumbler.

SOOBIN...

he's like the gossip monger of the entire branch

has tea on everyone

literally nothing goes out of his sight, he knows everything—as it is happening.

oh yurim from accounting department is pregnant? he's the first to know

jaeseok from the IT department has been two timing with his colleagues to get his work done for him? obviously soobin knows who the two colleagues are and how he manages to bag them both!

minhee from the editing team has explosive diarrhea—you just know it!

actually the last one everyone knows tbh

you cant frequent a bathroom five times in a hour and keep this things away from your coworkers

they are like your family.

you bet your sweet ass he dropped off pills for the poor girl too

this is why no one can find fault in soobin

even though he knows your dirtiest little secret, you can't hate him because he never gives you a chance to.

he's more like the messiah of his marketing department.

basically he runs this forum on the company website that everyone knows who operates but because of such cult like fan following, no one has the balls to expose him

unless they all want to be canceled overnight

but no one really knows how he works and gets his intels tbh

it's like the third top secret of the company

the first being how the hell did beomgyu get a job and the second being, how the hell does beomgyu keep his job?!?

even though soobin has his eyes on everyone

no one can really find anything about him

like of course he'd be at every company dinner, laughing his ass off at the lame ass joke his superior is cracking but also the karaoke nights right after but come always on time the next day

he's always so prim and proper

vogue 72 question guy called and asked for an interview for it

but his answer? he just has nothing to hide!

but you've always called bullshit on it tbh

everyone has a secret no matter how little it maybe

since he has exposed your tiny little addiction to carbohydrates on his forum for bringing a portable stove from home and making your own fancy ramen late at night during your over time hours

your eye twitches every time he enters your vicinity

you're just waiting for the time get a chance to nab his head using the step stool you keep hidden inside your cubicle

that's when you start to tail him everywhere to find his filthy little secret to expose him

but all you get is him buying fresh bread from a bakery, helping an elderly couple to cross the street, saving a toddler from a car accident, using his height to help get a cat down who was stuck in a tree—

you were almost starting to believe in his infuriating statement, that maybe, he's just such a humble human that he has nothing to hide

until the cat just walks out of the bag right in front of you

he's a weeb lmao

right in front of you, on a weekend night you were walking back home after buying some cheap beer, was soobin

in his gojo satoru cosplay

you can tell that's him even if his eyes are hidden with the black cloth or through that synthetic white wig

at first he doesn't notice you, talking to his friend while he's rocking the whole cosplay

i mean even youre shell shocked like sure everyone enjoys anime, even you do! so could soobin!

but you just didn't expect him to bust out in a full cosplay

after the initial shock fizzles out, you're yelling out to get his attention

you're just curious, the whole revenge thing you had out for soobin didn't even click yet

but as soon as he realized it was someone from his office, man just used his leg power and started to run the opposite direction

and your first reaction was to run after him

"ITS OKAY SOOBIN EVERYONE HAS THE RIGHT TO BE THEMSELVES!"

"STOP FUCKING FOLLOWING ME!"

so after a while he thankfully stops bc you were fr about to puke on the sidewalks

he's begging you to not out him and even if you were mad at him but that doesn't mean that you were such an evil being to blast him like that

not in such a heinous corporate society, you wouldn't even wish it upon your worst enemies!

even though you pinky promised him on the sidewalk while sharing your beers about not telling this to anyone.

soobin has been extra careful around you

man will be stirring his piping hot relaxing tea in the staff kitchen

sees you approach

chugs the whole thing down and scurries out without making eye contact

stops talking in the middle of his sentence when you enter the room

it's kinda fun to see him like that but you also wonder how does he run a whole gossip girl blog when he himself is like that

it would have been all fun and giggles if the office didn't start talking about how you and soobin have beef now

and now they are picking soobins side

bc he has the ability to turn all of their life into hell if wanted to

once again you're reminded of the female oppression in such a heinous corporate world

so you corner soobin just out of the man's toilet late at night and have a serious talk with him

heart to heart

you remind him that you won't tell anyone him about his after work activities also tell him about some of your anime characters for victim solidarity

and you two warm up in the place laced with wafting smell of pee and sanitizer

he even gifts you a whole packet of name brand ramen and a case of butane gas

and youre sure you've fallen love with him, right there and then

and so does he when you buy some white mascara and a better wig.

BEOMGYU...

beomgyu is the enigma of the production department

in the worst way possible

is always seen in other people's business more than his own

"honestly i think you should break up with him, like if he cheated once, he's gonna do it twice."

"i know ri—"

all his past managers have a medical history of chronic migraines and probably some other hidden illness they can't even disclose because of him

has been cited with name for a number of superior's resignations

yet personally he's like the cockroach who will survive anything

also casually steals lunch from the community fridge and tries to blame it on the new intern, huening kai

but everyone knows it's him

everyone thinks he's a nepo baby

but he personally tries to start a rumor that he has slept his way to the top

with an winky face

no one agrees tho

beomgyu just looks like an overactive virgin no matter which angle you look at him in.

probably has scanned his ass on the printer and also might have accidentally replaced actual analysis paper with it

"I might have wasted their time, but they have also seen my ass in it's rawest form, I think it's a win for them either way."

no one really knows how he got that job and how hes able to keep it up

everyone knows that he turns up all his research perfectly with the best rate of efficiency.

that's why the office puts up with him

beomgyu is like, yeah sure it's my intelligence but also this raw sex appeal to raise the attraction quotient of the office.

taehyun is somewhere in the corner, stabbing a pen into his palm with a glare, boring a hole into beomgyus back

beomgyu: see im so hot even my backs burning up

you are from the designing team and you've been recruited recently so you don't really know about beomgyu's whole reputation

but you're paired with him for a project and you two have to come up with the perfect valentine's day sales project

at first beomgyu is like super friendly

like way too friendly showing you the production department

giving little introductions for everyone

'this is jaehyun—he has a severe gas problem, so beware of giving him anything with eggs."

you're very intrigued but also like, a little scared youre not gonna lie

but that soon turns into bouts of sudden admiration for the man when you see him more and more

sure he has the attention span of a toddler and whines at every chance given—but he sure is super, duper passionate when it comes to his job

and isn't it the most important thing?

as you two work on it more privately, his colleagues start seeing a positive change in his behavior

and one night they all lie to beomgyu that they will get off early and once you and beomgyu are out of the office they all huddle up together

putting up a graph, a pie chart and recruit a tarot card reader on zoom on what's the cause of his sudden change of behavior

and everything points to one thing: you

after he started to work with you he has reasonably become more bearable and everyone pledges an oath to do anything to make the most of it

even if it's by setting you two up

they would give you a very fancy dinner of wagyu as a consolation prize if it did work out

so the next day during you guy's meeting the other team members are like

you and beomgyu should go on a few date to see how restaurants do the whole valentine thing

you:wha—

beomgyu: perfect!

that's how you two end up with a list of restaurants to check out for their valentine day schemes

you and him end up doing a lot of couple theme games for stuff

also research ofc ofc

but through all this you get to see him in so many ways that you cannot help but realize that maybe you did end up developing a little crush on the eccentric man

you guys are sitting outside a convenience store, eating popsicles and discussing about the couple game you two were forced to play and how they really blindsided beomgyu or else he would have won surely

you're like sure sure, with all your attention on the melting popsicle in your hands

he's like, this has been so fun it's like we're an actual couple

yk he's joking but you can't help but feel the heat rush to your cheeks

which gives him more leverage to tease you further

beomgyu: you're good at pretending that you like me

you: maybe because I actually do

and beomgyu almost chokes on the stick of his popsicle

but good thing! you two start dating!!!

beomgyu's teammates try to give you a hush hush wagyu beef dinner but beomgyu sniffs the utter betrayal and decides to join anyway

but he can't refuse that they were actually very helpful

oh and the product becomes a massive hit

u guys are the office's it couple now

beomgyu urges the new interns to call you and him, mom and dad.

TAEHYUN...

he's the manager from hell

when you look at him he kinda looks like the flower boy new intern

but in reality he is probably that senior who will not hesitate to eat you whole if you even do as little as give him a report with wrong font

always in a prim and proper attire

you won't ever catch him with one strand of his hair out of place

the talk in the company is that he is probably the owner's son

like why else would you care so much about the company?!?! hmmm sussy

even the marketing team's messiah, soobin, can't get under his skin

beomgyu, coming into the scene spinning in his chair: hm taehyun looks like your thongs are in a twist

taehyun: *kicks beomgyus chair out of his way and doesn't spare a second glance*

he's always on time

like do you live here bro

wasn't caught slacking a day in his entire career

and thats how the owners son rumors died down

he's is so cut throat omg. he has made so many people cry (deserving only.)

like he's so precise with his insults it's kinda commendable

"wow your nails are so pretty, shows you much you've never worked a day in your life :D"

his seniors asks him to come to the office to relay their disappoints to the workers who has been slacking off

he's so nice and precise with his harsh words that it could actually land him a nice paying side hustle

but he will do it for free

not everything in this world has a price!

everyone is scared of the finance department because of him

no one really wants to be trained under him

there are literally rumors about new recruits crying and leaving the company to become streamers and gamers because of taehyun

he only blames it on their weak mentality

taehyun: workplace is a jungle and only survivors survive the jungle.

wow taehyun you're so profound

had a calendar with motivational quotes to provide him energy to conquer each day

keep your head high king

always seen with a protein shake in the office

one time yeonjun who was visiting the office, accidentally drank taehyuns shake kept in the fridge

he couldn't feel his mouth for an hour

you actually trained under him when you were newly hired

and you hated every goddamn bit of it

everything about the devil of finance department was true and you were one of the surviving victim of his boot camp enough to tell the tale

and you did not keep your mouth shut

half of his brutish rumors comes from your mouth

you think of it as compensation from all the harsh treatment you got from him

sure you need to be strict with your interns if you're training them.

but he used to shut the doors at your face of you came late even by a minute or two

safe to say you did hold a bit of the grudge

and taehyun acts as if you didn't exist

now imagine a scene where you two are to do a couple dance thanks to the dumb idea of doing a raft for the cultural program of the company

taehyun: so here's my resignation—

you are like, ok why do you hate me

and taehyun scoffs in your face, like very loudly

and mind you this is happening in front of yall superior's face who are like, wow such chemistry

they'd set fire to the set

even after trying a various attempts of getting away without doing the godforsaken dance

you two are alone in the practice room, brooding over ideas on how to get away

when you finally get up and walk over to taehyun who's sitting in the corner of the room

"so you can break my leg so we can get away!"

and taehyun is genuinely looking at you with concern and sadness

"you hate me that much huh"

and you look at him and he's like a wet kitten who got kicked and your heart wrenches.

"a little" you sigh but quickly add in

"you were an asshole during the training period, maybe if you had toned down little"

he's like, okay but what about discipline

and you tell him about the concept of teaching with kindness and for the first time you have a heart to heart conversation with him and you realize wow okay,,,maybe he's,,, not that bad?

and he's not bad loo—

you slap yourself into consciousness and you lie to him that there was a mosquito

taehyun knows you're lying and he's finds it kinda cute

so you both decide to actually practice

and actually you both fr have a good chemistry

and the whole raffle thing becomes a hit

you two come out as a couple and the interns who are being trained under taehyun now shower you with gifts as the one who tamed the bull and also for being their precious alumnus

HUENING KAI...

now that's a real flower boy intern!

he's like one of those new recruits

always on time, smelling like freshly done laundry and hope that is not yet crushed by the mean managers

becomes a crowd favorite as soon as he enters the department to be trained

people actually try to feed him

like he'd be here to get coffee order for someone

and some elderly workers would be trying to shoot a cookie in his mouth like those basketball chads and he actually let's them!

older lady: *misses*

hyuka, clapping to cheer the old lady like a coach: that's okay! we can do better! we got time!

he actually doesn't got time

even if he's the sweetheart of the department doesn't mean he doesn't have thousands of files to photocopy or get correct order of bajillion coffee orders

messes up literally everything tho

soobin: hyuka why does my coffee taste like soap?

hyuka:...

but gets a "he's a new kid" pass

and one of the dudes who actually deserves it because sure, who cares if he's a little worthless in the office noW HE MIGHT BE USEFUL IN THE FUTURE!

he's a little child and he's just learning

and he makes it up than enough by running around the office every time to run errands to whomever asks him of anything

it's as if… he is… not… the son of the owner of the company..

hyuka was one of the fair breeds of rich

he'd be playing golf with his dad and then he was like dad i wanna join our company

his dad throws away the golf club to go hug his son but before he could engulf him in a bear hug and give a whole speech that is written and edited in a piece of paper

hidden in a special pocket designed in his undergarment for times like this

"as an intern, i wanna try to earn my place."

his father throws a bitch fit like bro i did this all for u and now u wanna be amongst the commoners

hyuka is like, yes

and after a bit more of the bitch fit his dad agrees

and that's where his struggle story starts

even tho getting in was easy but keeping up a whole facade of being a normal boy who just has a dream of becoming big in the corporate world is hard

like imagine the horrors of not being able to wear his cartier in the office!! if only he got caught!!

or drinking instant coffee?!?? commoners coffee?!

although he has quite grown accustomed to that taste

much like everyone you were also unaware of hyuka's high status but considering that you were his direct senior, he had to spend a lot of his time under your tutelage

but the thing is you're not used to training anyone so you're like,,, ok get me two copies of this paper and a relaxing tea

and he's like, on it boss!

at first it was kind of awkward to have him around you all the time but as time passed he started to grow on you

and even hyuka started to grow fond of you

perhaps more than a senior junior relationship

okay basically he likes u and he almost let that shit out but thankfully he passed out before that

and as your direct junior you have to take care of him so everyone leaves you two and goes to any other bar to continue the party

and you are here, groaning while lunging his half conscious body and try to get his eyes open to get into his phone to call someone over

and then you call his speed dial and when they pick up you introduce yourself as his senior

as soon as the words oh are you kai's mother leaves your mouth, hyuka shots up and literally snatches his phone away from your ears

he's like, hahahahaha, im so awake.

devil may work hard but hyukas mom works harder

before you two can wrap up your conversation at the entrance of the bar, an audi comes to pick him up

and two men come out and starts calling hyuka sir and acting like he is their boss

hyuka wanted the ground to open and to swallow him up

so he just settled on coming clean to you

he knows you enough to know that you won't tell anyone about it nor would you use him

and he's so right because since that night you pledge to protect his identity

and he's like

*proud smile, clicks your picture and sends it to his mom* your future daughter in law

hyuka also got the balls to say that he likes you fr and then you two drank instant coffee to celebrate the beginning of your relationship

copyrights 2023— itgirlgyu!!! feedbacks are appreciated! drop a comment on whose love story you liked the best!!

a/n my toxic trait is thinking I could make one shot out of every one of these. also i learned something valuable about me, im indeed capable of writing 3k in 6 hours. if only I could do it regularly sigh.

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neathyingenue · 4 months ago

Text

rearing my head from my hiatus to say that a fic of mine is FINALLY done--

who would i be without you without them?

Read on Ao3

Sometimes your girlfailure of a Heart's Desire PC befriends three Nemesis PCs who either would kill for her--or who already have! Featuring: August Shaw (@zeebreezin), Brett Heroux (@thedandy-detective), and Caoimhe Coledoc (@the-insouciant-scientist)!

---

Teen And Up Audiences

Graphic Depictions Of Violence

F/F, Multi, Other

3/3 Chapters; 4452 words

Tags: Assassination Attempt(s); Found Family; Connected: The Great Game (Fallen London); Constables (Fallen London); (just in chapter 2 though); Fist Fights; as in multiple fist fights; Route: Wolfstack Docks (Fallen London); Useless Lesbians; Butch/Femme

#ok that's all. gonna sink back into my bog now #will post about this properly once i'm done w my hiatus #i wish it didn't take me nearly 2 months to write 4k words but here we are #my writing #silvia salcedo #august shaw #brett heroux #caoimhe coledoc #spy x anarchy #far from the tree

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moonferry · 4 months ago

Text

omg hello. here's the fluffy oneshot i promised :') i missed writing for kodi and i decided to throw in some domestic danlee as a treat.

name: sam's birthday bonanza

word count: 4452

summary: it's sam's sixth birthday! join the neilson family as they celebrate. some unexpected guests arrive and the party truly begins!

ao3 version: here

original fic: here

July 20XX, Zuzu City – The Neilson House | Sam’s Sixth Birthday

Jodi hummed to herself, busying herself in the small kitchen. It was currently Sam’s birthday and she was making her famous chocolate cake - a rich, decadent dessert that was covered in a layer of thick, creaming frosting. Just thinking about it was enough to make anyone’s mouth water.

Jodi’s brow furrowed in concentration as she peered over the recipe book. She had borrowed it from Danny - as her brother always took the most neat and detailed instructions during their baking misadventures as children - and was attempting to read the jagged scratch that was Danny’s handwriting. Eventually, she managed to decode it and continued. The recipe called for two eggs. That should be easy enough.

Jodi opened the small refrigerator and took out two eggs, placing them gently into a bowl. Then, she picked up one of the eggs and carefully cracked its shell before pouring it into the mixing bowl filled with other ingredients - taking care to ensure no shell got into the mixture. She grabbed the whisk and was just about to mix the batter when the faint ding-dong of the doorbell sounded.

“Someone’s here, Mama!” Sam called as he happily bounded into the kitchen, instantly latching to his mother’s skirt and peering up at her. Jodi glanced down, smiling at her son.

“It should be your Uncle Danny and Uncle Lee,” Jodi explained. She motioned towards what she was doing before adding, “Can you go let them in for me, sweetheart? I’m a bit busy at the moment.”

Sam nodded enthusiastically before trotting off towards the front door. As he ran into the hallway, Kent reached out and pulled him into a big hug.

“There’s my little man,” Kent spoke, bringing a now giggling Sam closer to him. He playfully poked his son’s stomach, causing the boy to erupt in more giggles as he tried to squirm out of Kent’s grasp. He chuckled, a smile spreading across his lips before adding, “And where is the little birthday boy going, hm?”

“Daaad,” Sam protested, a playful frown crossing his lips. “I’m doing what Mama said! She said to get the door.”

“Oh?” Kent asked. He tilted his head to the side, why would someone be at the door? Jodi hadn’t mentioned anyone would be arriving this early. After all, Jodi’s mother had already dropped off Sam’s presents and was currently out of the city. And, as far as he knew, his own mother and Ruby would be stopping by this weekend.

“Mhm!” Sam nodded. He tried once again to wriggle out of Kent’s arms before adding, “Now I gotta go! Mama said it was important.”

“Okay, okay,” Kent conceded, gently putting his son back on the ground. Sam began to trot off once again, though Kent stopped him and spoke once more, “I’m going to be helping your mom in the kitchen if you need me, okay?” Sam nodded once again. Kent reached a hand out, ruffling his son’s fluffy blond hair before finally allowing him to leave and complete his task.

Kent walked into the kitchen and approached his wife. He peered over her shoulder - watching as she took the freshly baked cake out from the oven and set it on the counter. When it was clear Jodi had set it down and wouldn’t get burned by the hot pan, he carefully wrapped his arms around her waist and leaned against her.

“Mm, something smells good,” Kent spoke, resting his chin on Jodi’s shoulder.

“It should. This cake is my specialty!” Jodi replied proudly, a smile spreading across her lips. She leaned back against Kent, allowing herself to sink into his arms as she began preparing the frosting.

“Ooh,” Kent piped up, tilting his head mischievously. The best part about watching Jodi bake was sneaking small “quality tests” of frosting. He eyed the spatula intently.

“Kent Neilson, do not even think about it, mister,” Jodi scolded - though there was no malice in her voice. She gripped the bowl tightly, moving it out of Kent’s reach. She spoke again, “I know that mischievous look in your eyes, but the answer is no. You know this is for Sam’s cake.”

“What mischievous look?” Kent asked, feigning innocence. He looked between the frosting and Jodi before giving a dramatic gasp, his hand flying to his chest to add to his act.

“I can't believe you think so low of me! I would never steal frosting! I'm hurt that you would ever suggest something so.. outlandish..” Kent joked, turning away from his wife and resting the back of his hand against his forehead. “Et tu, Jodi? Has our time together meant nothing?” Maybe he was laying it on a bit thick. Jodi responded with a chuckle before rolling her eyes.

“You’ll live,” She said, shaking her head playfully. Jodi pursed her lips together, noting the size of the now cooling cake. It would take quite some time to frost this herself. An idea popped into her head. She turned to Kent before conceding, “Fine, you can have some. If - and only if - you help me decorate the cake.”

“Deal,” Kent replied, a content smile spreading across his features. He grabbed a spare spatula and began helping Jodi apply the frosting to the now completely cooled cake. When they were finished, Kent scraped his finger around the edge of the mixing bowl, bringing a large glob of frosting towards his face. Instead of eating it, however, he turned and wiped a small amount onto Jodi’s cheek - playfully teasing her. Jodi didn't seem to notice.

“Hey, Jo,” Kent started, stifling a chuckle as Jodi looked at him. He pointed towards her cheek and added, “I think you got a little something on your face.”

“Kent!” Jodi whined, cringing as she tried to wipe the substance from her cheek. A small pout formed on her lips.

“Here, let me help you,” Kent offered before wetting his thumb. He gently cupped Jodi’s cheeks, rubbing his thumb across the frosting. Once he managed to get the sugary substance off - for the most part - he leaned down and placed a gentle kiss onto Jodi’s cheek.

“There!” He piped up, pulling away from Jodi. A bright smile spread across his lips as he added, “Good as new!”

Jodi rolled her eyes once more and a small chuckle slipped past her lips, though she leaned her head into Kent’s palms. Kent glanced at her, expression softening as he was overcome with a large wave of love and admiration.

“Have I ever told you how much I love you?” Kent asked, brushing his thumb over the curve of Jodi’s cheek. She smiled, though she shook her head.

“No,” Jodi replied. She peered up at him, her eyes shining with deep affection. She wrapped her arms around his waist, scooting herself closer to him before adding, “Tell me. How much do you love me, Cactus?”

“So, so much,” Kent answered, a wide smile crossing his lips. He wrapped his arms around Jodi’s shoulders and pulled her close to him before resting his chin on the top of her head. He closed his eyes and let himself enjoy this gentle moment. It was peaceful: being here with Jodi like this.

In the other room, Sam carefully opened the door - revealing the bright smiling face of his uncles.

“Uncle Danny!” Sam called out happily. He jumped into the man’s arms and gave him a large hug.

“Hey, Sammy!” Danny called back, wrapping his arms around the boy and letting out a hearty chuckle at Sam’s enthusiasm. He smoothed down Sam’s wild hair and smiled down at the boy before speaking once again, “How’s the little birthday boy doing today?”

Sam grinned up at him, showing his teeth (though a few were missing as Sam had lost them recently). He looked up at Danny, puffing his chest out and spoke once again, “I'm not little! I'm a big boy now.”

“Ah, that's right,” Danny said with a small nod, “How old are you today, anyway?” He tapped his finger against his chin and gave a deep thought before adding, “No, no.. don't tell me..”

“Let me guess you're.. twenty-six?” Danny replied, the joke clearly evident in his voice. He poked Sam’s stomach and scrunched up his nose as Sam giggled.

“Nooo, you're twenny-six, Uncle Danny!” Sam said, shaking his head in between his laughter. He held up his small hands - making his fingers show the number six - and added, “I'm just six, silly!”

Danny laughed though he nodded at Sam’s words, “So you are.” As the two were talking, Lee approached the door, carrying a massive and and hastily wrapped present. Sam’s eyes lit up upon seeing the man.

“Uncle Lee!” He called out, trying to wriggle out of Danny’s arms.

“Here, hun,” Danny spoke, turning to Lee. He gently sat Sam on the ground before taking the package from Lee’s arms, “Let me help.”

“Thanks, Dan,” Lee replied, a smile plastered on his face. He leaned over, placing a small kiss onto Danny’s cheek before turning to Sam.

Lee crouched down, opening his arms and letting Sam run into them. He wrapped the boy in a tight hug.

“Hey, kiddo!” Lee spoke as Sam hugged him back. He glanced at the boy before asking, “How’s my favorite nephew?”

“Uncle Lee,” Sam spoke, rolling his eyes playfully before adding, “I'm your only nephew.”

“True,” Lee spoke before chuckling. He reached a hand out and ruffled Sam’s messy hair before continuing, “You're still my favorite, though.”

At the sound of the commotion, Kent walked into the room. A look of surprise covered his face upon seeing his friends

“Danny? Lee? What are you guys doing here?” He exclaimed happily. Kent approached his friends and tilted his head in confusion.

“Kent!” Danny called out, approaching his friend before wrapping Kent in a tight hug. He gave a brotherly pat on the back of Kent’s shoulder.

“I thought you guys were busy in Calico Desert!” Kent said. Disbelief washed over his face. His best friends had driven all the way to the city and he didn't know? How could this be?

“We were, but Mother offered to watch Sandy for us.. Jodi made us promise not to say anything,” Danny explained, “She wanted it to be a surprise.”

“Hey, man!” Lee called out as he walked over. He was now holding Sam - the young boy resting on Lee’s side, content. Lee wrapped his free arm around Kent’s neck and pulled him into a tight hug.

“Man, I missed you guys,” Kent said. He felt a wetness build up in the corner of his eyes. He hadn't seen his friends in a few months - as they were busy raising a daughter in the desert and trying to run a shop. Kent understood, he and Jodi hardly had time to visit the desert themselves. Raising Sam was great, but he did miss seeing his friends consistently.

“Well, we’re here now,” Danny replied. He looked at Kent and thought about how different their lives had been since the war. They each had children of their own. It was surreal to think about.

“Yeah, man!” Lee piped up, a wide smile spreading across his lips once again, “We wouldn't miss Sam’s birthday for the world.”

“Oh yeah, and it's nice to see you, too.. I guess,” Lee joked, his laughter earning a playfully annoyed head shake from Danny.

“Come on, baby, don't look at me like that,” Lee whined, turning to look at his husband with a small pout, “You know I'm only joking. Kent knows that, too.”

Danny rolled his eyes, though he moved and stood next to Lee, reaching his hands up and pushing his pouting lip back in his mouth, before speaking, “You're lucky I love you.” Lee beamed up at him.

Sam, who had been staring intently at the present resting by the door, finally looked at his family members. He reached his arms out - asking for Kent to hold him. Kent happily obliged, instantly taking his son into his arms.

“Dad, dad,” Sam piped up, gently tugging on the collar of Kent’s shirt. When Kent glanced at him, Sam pointed a small, chubby finger towards the present. “Can I open it now? Please? Please?” He pleaded, giving his biggest puppy dog eyes towards his father.

Kent thought for a moment, his lips forming a small line. He looked down at Sam, nearly falling victim to Sam’s pleas. A small “hmm” escaped his lips.

“Go ask Mama, okay?” Kent spoke, gently setting his son on the ground. Sam nodded enthusiastically - his excitement barely contained. A small chuckle slipped past Kent’s lips and he added, “I'm sure she’d be happy to know your uncles are here, anyway.”

“Mama! Mama!” Sam called out as he bounded into the kitchen, his pointy hair flopping as he walked. Kent watched Sam leave, a smile crossing his lips. He turned back to his friends and the three of them continued chatting.

Soon enough, Jodi walked into the lounge, an excited Sam clinging to her skirts once again. She smiled as her eyes landed on her brother and his husband.

Danny approached his sister, opening his arms to wrap her in the biggest bone-crushing hug. When he wrapped his arms around her, he gave her a tight squeeze.

“Jodi Pierogi!” He called out, smiling as his sister returned the hug. Jodi rolled her eyes at the nickname, but she secretly enjoyed it. Her brother used it affectionately - though it was a reminder of the time she failed miserably at making the Polish dumplings.

Even though they tasted awful, and Jodi had messed up the recipe, Danny still ate them. He even assured her they were the tastiest thing he'd ever eaten- despite the fact that his face was bright green and he was about to hurl from one bite. She was grateful to Danny and his endless encouragement. He was actually the reason Jodi wanted to get better at cooking, though she'd never tell him that. She didn't want it to go to his head.

“Danny!” Jodi spoke happily. She then turned to Kent before adding, “What a surprise. I didn't know you were coming!”

“Ah..” Danny started, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. He shrugged his shoulders and mumbled, “We sort of.. told him you knew. Sorry, dumpling.”

Jodi gave an understanding nod. She knew that, when excited, the Sawyers were not the best at keeping secrets, so she partially expected it.

“JoJo!” Lee spoke, approaching Jodi and hugging her just as tightly. Jodi smiled at the familiar nickname and gave Lee a tight squeeze. She always had a soft spot for Danny’s husband - she even considered him her fourth brother.

“Hey, Lee,” Jodi spoke, allowing herself to melt into Lee’s ironclad grip, “It's good to see you.”

“You too, Jodi,” Lee replied.

Sam tugged on Jodi’s skirts and looked up at her expectantly. She gave a small nod and motioned him towards the present.

Kent watched the scene from afar, a content smile on his face. Everything seemed perfect. Almost too perfect, to be honest. He glanced around the room - his eyes landing on his friends. Instead of their smiling faces, Kent was greeted with grotesque imagery: flashes of wounds appeared on his friends. Both of them looked deathly pale.

He rubbed his eyes, trying to clear the horrible images from his mind. He looked back at his friends and noticed they seemed the same as they always had - cheerful, full of life. Danny and Lee were currently standing next to each other, their arms draped around the other’s waist.

Danny laid his head on Lee’s shoulder, frowning at his husband’s sudden silence. Lee was intently watching Sam - who was excitedly tearing into the mass of wrapping paper surrounding his present - and had his brows furrowed together in concentration.

“What’s wrong, hun?” Danny asked, his brows furrowing together. Lee made a move to protest but Danny shook his head and added, “Before you say ‘nothing,’ I know that is a lie, Lee.”

“You're only quiet when something’s on your mind,” He explained, tilting his head to look at Lee’s face. He scrutinized Lee’s expression - trying to find the source of his distress - before adding, “So, what's wrong? You can tell me, honey.”

“Just thinkin’,” Lee mumbled, turning and resting a caring hand against Danny’s cheek and brushing his thumb over the faint stubble.

“About?” Danny asked. He leaned into Lee’s hand before resting his own on the backside of Lee's hand.

“Life and stuff, I guess,” Lee spoke. Though, he realized that didn't exactly cover his thoughts. Truthfully, he was thinking about more than “life and stuff”, he just didn't have the words to express it. He exhaled a small sigh before adding, “Sandy, mostly. I'm worried, Dan. What if I can't be a good father for her? I didn't have a father figure growing up.. I.. I don't know how to be a good dad.”

“Lee Sawyer,” Danny spoke firmly. He looked up at Lee, his expression turning serious. He shook his head, denying Lee’s question as he spoke, “Don't say things like that. You're going to be the best father, I know it. Sandy is lucky to have you as one of her dads.”

“And, besides, you aren't doing it alone, you know?” Danny started, his expression softening as he continued, “You have me. We can do this. Together.”

“Thanks, Danny,” Lee said, a faint smile replacing his previous glum expression. He turned and pressed a loving kiss onto Danny’s lips, still cupping Danny’s cheek in his hand. When he pulled away, he spoke once more, “I'm glad we’re together. I don't think I've ever felt this way about anyone before. I don't even think I knew what love was until I met you - aside from familial love from Oma, of course.”

As he thought about his grandmother, a solemn smile spread across Lee’s lips. He rested his forehead against Danny’s own before speaking, “She would've loved you, you know.”

“Oma had.. a certain way with people - kind of like you do,” Lee explained. A strange thought crossed his mind, and he spoke again, “It makes me wonder if.. if she was the reason we met. I know it sounds crazy, but, when I walked into Cabin Five that day, I felt like I had known you my entire life. As if there was a familiar aura radiating from you or something..”

Lee’s thought process was interrupted as Jodi entered the room once more - a large cake that consisted of several layers precariously stacked on top of each other in her hands. Jodi’s arms wobbled underneath the weight, the cake nearly tumbling out of her arms.

Kent watched, his eyes widening in panic. Before he could react, however, his mind flashed the horrible images once again - his friends distorting and being replaced by pale, corpse-like versions of themselves. He gasped and tried to shake the vision from his mind. Yet, it remained.

Soon, Danny and Lee approached him, their appearances changing once again. They were now wearing the army uniforms from their youth. Kent glanced down at himself and noticed he had somehow transitioned into the same garment. He looked at his hands and noticed a rifle was placed in his palms, his hand tightly gripped around the barrel.

His hands moved - as if they had a mind of their own. Kent felt like he wasn't in control of his body. He felt as if he was spectating himself. He watched as his hands brought the rifle closer to him. He watched as this mythical version of himself peered through the scope, his finger hovering over the trigger.

What am I doing? He asked. He tried to shake himself out of whatever stupor was occurring, but to no avail. Kent was powerless.

He simply watched as this strange version of himself aligned his sights, pointing the rifle towards his unsuspecting friends. Kent’s eyes widened and he protested.

No! His mind screamed, though his body refused to listen. Before he could stop himself, Kent released the trigger. A sharp, piercing bang sounded and his friends slumped to the ground.

His body seemed to finally listen to him and Kent threw the rifle before approaching his friends and crouching between them.

“No, no, no,” Kent pleaded, “This isn't real. This can't be happening.”

“You did this to us, Kent,” Lee spoke, his voice sounding hollow and void of emotion.

“We would've had a beautiful life together,” Danny spoke in the same alien tone, “but you took it away. Why didn't you save us, Kent?”

“I tried, I promise!” Kent pleaded, tears streaming down his face.

“Not hard enough,” They spoke in unison. Another bang resounded and Kent’s vision went black.

Kent jolted awake, gasping for air and gripping his chest. He glanced around his bedroom. It seems like everything he had just witnessed had been nothing more than a twisted nightmare. Kent frowned. It had all seemed so.. real.

He looked at his bedside table and noted the familiar necklace of dog tags resting near a photo of the three of them. Kent's frown deepened. He felt a familiar hollowness creep into his chest. He couldn't believe the war was seven years ago. Seven long years that he's dealt with guilt and recurring nightmares about his friends. It made him sick to think about. He hoisted his legs over the side of the bed before propping his elbows on his knees - his face burying in the palms of his hands. He missed his friends so much. They swarmed his mind constantly - the guilt eating away at him.

“Kent, honey?” Jodi called, softly knocking on the door to their shared bedroom before slowly cracking open the door, “Are you awake?”

He glanced up upon hearing Jodi’s voice. She frowned as she looked at him. Jodi approached their bed and plopped herself next to him. She carefully rested her hand on his shoulder.

“The nightmare again?” Jodi asked, her brows furrowing together. She knew the answer. Kent had been having the same nightmare for weeks now. It didn't help that their son shared a birthday with her brother - which caused Kent's thoughts to become occupied with thoughts of him in spite of the celebratory atmosphere. Kent gave a small nod and leaned against Jodi, his head resting on her shoulder. She wrapped her arms around him before resting her chin on the top of his head.

“I'm sorry, honey,” Jodi spoke, a sigh slipping past her lips. She ran her fingers through Kent's hair, gently massaging his scalp with her nails. He leaned into her hand and closed his eyes.

“If it makes you feel any better, a few people are planning to stop by later,” She added, pressing a small kiss to Kent’s forehead before continuing, “For Sam’s party, you know.”

Kent grimaced. He had nearly forgotten about Sam’s birthday party. He had been so preoccupied that the thought seemed to slip his mind. He nodded at Jodi’s words.

As if on cue, a cheerful Sam bounded into the room and clambered onto the slightly too high bedside. He stuck his tongue out in concentration and placed his pajama-covered foot in a small crevasse to hoist himself up and into his parents’ laps.

“Hey, buddy,” Kent spoke, doing his best to hide his sour mood. He wrapped his arms around his son, who was cheerfully chattering away and making small, over excited gestures with his toy truck. He knew it wasn't Sam’s fault, the boy didn't have a choice regarding when he was born.

“Dad, dad!” Sam piped up happily as he excitedly showed his father the toy in his hands before adding, “Mama said I could open one of my gifts before everyone got here an’.. it was this truck! It's so cool! See, Dad? See?”

Kent smiled at his son’s enthusiasm, though his smile felt hollow. He reached a hand up and ran his fingers through Sam’s hair before leaning down and placing a small kiss onto his son’s forehead. “I see, Sammy. That's a very cool truck," he replied.

“Did you say thank you to Mama?” Kent asked, looking at Jodi’s smiling face. He looked back at his son, who appeared to be thinking - his tongue sticking out of the corner of his mouth once again - and added, “Or did you get too excited and forget again?”

“Yeah..” Sam mumbled sadly, a small frown spreading across his lips as he realized he, indeed, got too excited and forgot.

“That's okay, buddy,” Kent reassured Sam, ruffling his son’s already messy hair. He motioned to Jodi before speaking to Sam once again, “Just thank her now, okay? I'm sure she’d understand. We all forget sometimes, hm?”

Sam nodded happily before thanking Jodi and returning to his excited rambling. Kent glanced at the photo on his nightstand and gulped. He couldn't bear to look at it anymore. He needed to get out of this room before the thoughts settled back in. He didn't want to ruin Sam’s day, after all. Kent gently scooped Sam into his arms and stood up.

“Let's go to the lounge, okay, Sam?” Kent offered carefully. Sam looked a bit confused, but he nodded in agreement. He carried his son out of the room. When they entered the room, the doorbell rang.

Kent raised an eyebrow, skeptical. He knew Jodi had mentioned someone was coming, but he wasn't sure who. He carefully sat Sam down before approaching the door and peering through the peephole. He noticed two people outside, though the fogginess of the hole made it hard to distinguish who it was.

Kent slowly opened the door and his jaw dropped upon seeing who it was.

“Surprise!” Danny spoke, a wide smile spreading across his lips.

“Jodi invited us,” Lee added, his own smile present.

Kent gasped, tears welling up in his eyes. He dashed forward and wrapped his friends into the tightest hug imaginable.

“Oh thank Yoba,” Kent said, his voice breaking with relief and filled with emotion, “I'm so glad you're okay.”

“What are you talking about, man?” Danny spoke, his voice filling with confusion.

“I thought I lost you guys. I was so scared,” Kent explained. He sniffled and hugged his friends tighter before continuing, “There.. there were gunshots and.. and you guys died.”

“Aw, Kent,” Lee spoke, wrapping his own arm around Kent's shoulders, Danny’s arm doing the same on the other side. He looked at Kent and gave an understanding nod, “We’re okay, really.”

“Yeah, man,” Danny replied, responding with his own nod. He felt Kent’s grip tighten and moved to reassure him, “We aren't going anywhere.”

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firstprince-ao3feed · 3 months ago

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Hair Earring Met Desire

by Blombus23 ...“Effective immediately, I renounce my position as Prince Henry. I will no longer serve as an ambassador of the Crown, nor will I adhere to the life mapped out for me since birth. I will chart my own path...” or Henry abdicates and becomes THE Gay Icon of the 21st century. or 5 times Alex cannot but obsesses over Henry's online appearances, and 1 time it's in person - Met Gala style. Words: 4452, Chapters: 1/2, Language: English Series: Part 2 of Times when Alex went viral Fandoms: Red White & Royal Blue - Casey McQuiston, Red White & Royal Blue (2023) Rating: Explicit Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Categories: M/M Characters: Alex Claremont-Diaz, Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor, Nora Holleran, June Claremont-Diaz Relationships: Alex Claremont-Diaz/Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor, June Claremont-Diaz/Nora Holleran Additional Tags: Bisexual Disaster Alex Claremont-Diaz, No Cakegate (Red White & Royal Blue), Alex obsesses over Henry, 5+1 Things, Embedded Images, Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor Abdicates, Alternate Universe - Never Met, Lawyer Alex Claremont-Diaz, Henry slowly becomes a Gay Icon of the 21st Century, Semi-Public Sex, Bathroom Sex, Blow Jobs, Coming Untouched, ++1 special via https://ift.tt/tu1izmj

#IFTTT #ao3feed #fanfic #red white and royal blue #rwrb #firstprince #Blombus23

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neopuff · 11 months ago

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ALWAYS ON MY MIND

chapter two: at the back of my mind ships: sasha/milla characters: sasha, milla, otto, truman words: 4452 ao3 link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/53435410/chapters/135363142

[chap 1]

It'd been almost a month since Grand Head Zanotto forced Sasha to socialize with someone new for several hours. He'd not done it again since, but that was probably because they hadn't had any new hires since then.

His two hours with Agent Vodello had been surprisingly pleasant. She was charming and friendly, but not uncomfortably so, and Sasha liked that she listened to what he said. At least she seemed to be listening - he hadn't attempted to read her mind out of respect for her privacy, but occasionally caught the telepathic sound of music playing.

After their tour, she hadn't sought him out for anything. Which was just fine - Sasha was always working on research projects or helping Agent Mentallis with one of his new inventions. He didn't need anything else on his plate.

Still, Agent Vodello waved at him anytime they were both in the lobby. He felt himself awkwardly wave back each time, but she was always, always with someone else, so their interactions never really expanded beyond that.

Which, again, was perfectly fine with him.

On one uneventful Monday morning, Sasha was making his way across the Quarry to Agent Mentallis’ lab when he saw her by herself for the first time in a long time.

She was exiting Agent Mentallis’ lab and had a neutral, almost sad expression on her face. Sasha thought it looked unnatural on her, when she was usually so…smiley.

Just as he thought that, she noticed him, and gave him the bright smile he was used to seeing. “Ah, hello, Agent Nein!”

They both stopped on the same floating pad, just two away from the parking lot in front of the lab. “Good morning, Agent Vodello. Nice to see you.”

“You, too!” She looked positively giddy, clapping her hands together in front of her. “It’s been far too long since we’ve talked - we should get coffee sometime and chat!”

Sasha adjusted his sunglasses, taking that in. He knew that her words were the universal expression of we’ll probably never spend time together again, but said in the nicest way possible. Which was a bit disappointing, but at least he wouldn’t get his hopes up. “Yes…of course. Some time when we’re both free.”

Agent Vodello smiled and waved at him as she levitated away - he watched her for a half-second before turning to focus entirely on the lab. Where his focus was supposed to be.

He stepped through the annoying security room and found himself standing across from Otto Mentallis’ familiar face - the older psychic was alone at his desk, tinkering with something small.

“Agent Mentallis.”

“Ah, Sasha!” Otto smiled and waved him over. “This is a real change of pace - my last visitor was a very lively young woman.”

Sasha chose not to take that as an insult. “I assume you’re referring to Agent Vodello.”

“Yes, that’s her!” The older man stood up and stretched, cracking his back. “Talkative, charming. Pretty, too, don’t you think?”

At that question, Sasha pulled out a cigarette and quickly lit it, enjoying the calm it brought his nerves. “...it would be pointless to pretend otherwise.”

Otto laughed loudly and sharply, surprising the younger agent who stared at him like he’d grown a second head. “I always appreciate how predictable you are, honestly. It makes me feel like I’ve got a good handle on this place. Now what’d you come down here for?”

“I…was interested in how your latest project is going,” Sasha answered, ignoring the other comments. He could genuinely never tell if Agent Mentallis was purposefully trying to get under his skin, or if the man simply didn’t pay attention to some of the things that came out of his mouth. “Have you made much progress?”

“Ahhh…my Distilled Emotions series. No, not particularly.” Otto put a hand to his chin and glanced to the side, where he had scribbles and scratch marks all over the pages of an open notebook. “I’m still interested in the idea, but…it’s slow-going. Nothing has seemed to work so far. But I’m not giving up just yet!”

“I’m sorry to hear that.” Sasha stuffed his hands into his pockets, lit cigarette floating near his head. “If there’s any way I could assist…”

“Not with this one, I don’t think. Not yet, at least! I’ll let you know when I make a breakthrough worth talking about.” The older man paused for a moment, glaring at his wall of gadgets both finished and unfinished, then he grabbed one item to show it off. “Did I show you my new Otto-shot Camera?”

“You did not.” Sasha eyed the camera suspiciously - he didn’t have much need for taking photographs, but he was curious to know how it differed from a normal camera. “What does it do?”

“What doesn’t it do would be a better question!” Otto held it up proudly. “You can use it to…well - take photos! But it also has fun filters and can detect hard-to-find figments inside someone’s mind…it’s very helpful.”

Sasha didn’t think any of that sounded particularly useful to him, though he supposed there was no downside to help in collecting figments. “This seems like it would be better suited for someone like Agent Vodello,” he commented dryly, not really thinking about any unintended meaning to his words.

Otto, however, seemed to find that comment very interesting, considering the suspicious smirk that came over his face as soon as Sasha mentioned the lively, pretty young woman again.

Sasha frowned at the older man’s expression.

“You know what, Sasha, you’re absolutely right. She seems very photogenic - perhaps you could bring this to her and she can test it for me!” Otto said, wolfish smile never leaving his face.

Confused, Sasha reached out and took the camera out of his hands. He wasn’t an idiot - he could see Agent Mentallis was trying to imply something untoward and he didn’t understand how acknowledging her existence would justify that. “What are you doing?” he asked uncomfortably.

“Me? I’m just trying to be efficient with my time!” Otto answered innocently, holding his hands up in the air. “I’m an old man, Sasha. You can't expect me to go back and forth to the Motherlobe all willy-nilly.”

Sasha held the camera tighter in his hands. Though Agent Mentallis’ explanation made sense, they'd spent enough time together that Sasha knew he was lying. He didn't understand why Agent Mentallis felt it necessary to make those types of jokes, but it certainly wasn't the first time nor would it be the last.

“...alright. I'll bring it to her,” Sasha said hesitantly. “But I don’t see her often, so don’t expect results anytime soon.”

“Sure, sure. Whenever. I'm in no rush!”

Sasha made his way out of the workshop, feeling a bit like he'd wasted his time. He liked Agent Mentallis and really enjoyed working with the man on machines and gadgets, but Agent Mentallis also had the unfortunate habit of implying that Sasha needed to socialize with people his own age. On more than one occasion, he'd even told Sasha to go get a life!

But Sasha did have a life. He felt extremely comfortable as he was currently living, even if he didn't have many friends. He'd spent the last seven years building himself a career and a reputation amongst the Psychonauts that he wouldn't trade for anything. And those years of focus and discipline had given him the strength and understanding to work through difficulties from his youth. There was no amount of socializing with a beautiful woman that would have any such impact.

Or a not-beautiful woman.

Or anyone, really.

He took a step closer to the Motherlobe and took another drag of his cigarette. It felt like he was breaking some sort of unspoken rule by acknowledging Agent Vodello’s charm. He could only blame Otto for implanting the thought in his mind. But it wasn’t inappropriate to recognize that she was pretty. She clearly took pride in her appearance - she wore makeup, styled her hair, looked at herself in mirrors anytime she noticed one. But Sasha felt still like he was doing something wrong.

As he entered the Motherlobe, Sasha’s eyes were immediately drawn to the woman of the hour - she had started to wear more colorful clothes after getting settled in the new job, and her style tended to include bright colors, which made her especially noticeable.

More than that, though, she was levitating alongside Grand Head Zanotto, and they were headed towards the Nerve Center.

Obviously they were going to talk about something important. Sasha had no reason to interrupt, especially when all he had to give her was Agent Mentallis’ strange new camera. So he made his way back to his office. Sasha had recently completed a short recon mission and still needed to write up his report - there was plenty of work to do that didn't involve anyone else.

He got about fifteen minutes into his report - which meant it was almost done, since the mission had been fairly simple - when he felt a telepathic prodding in the back of his mind.

“Sasha, can you come up to my office? I need your assistance.”

He pouted and adjusted his sunglasses, curious what Grand Head Zanotto needed from him. Especially after he just met with Agent Vodello - Sasha anxiously wondered if she'd complained about him for some reason. Maybe she felt he'd been staring at her and was uncomfortable. Or perhaps Agent Mentallis said something out-of-turn.

“Be right there,” Sasha responded, telepathically reaching back.

Paperwork forgotten, Sasha tried not to feed his paranoia as he made his way to the Grand Head’s office. It was unlikely that Agent Vodello had filed a complaint about him. And it was even more unlikely that Agent Mentallis being inappropriate would lead to Sasha being called in for a talk.

He didn't really have a guess as to the purpose of this meeting, so he supposed he had no choice but to wait and find out.

Upon reaching the Grand Head’s office, Sasha turned to levitate over the water fixture when he heard two familiar voices talking. He was immediately confused and very curious why he’d been brought in when the previous meeting hadn’t ended yet.

“Ah, there he is!”

Sasha landed a few feet in front of the Grand Head’s desk when the older man smiled at him, and Camilla turned around with a matching smile on her face.

“Two times in one day! What a treat!” she said with a little wink.

Sasha took another drag from his cigarette and nodded at her, then looked up at the Grand Head. “You needed me for something…?”

“Not me, exactly. Agent Vodello here has been struggling with some of her psychic powers and I thought you could give her some one-on-one training since you’re not on any assignments right now,” Grand Head Zanotto answered quickly, repeatedly glancing down at the clock on his desk.

“Oh.”

Camilla looked embarrassed and ran her fingers through her hair. “I haven’t had much opportunity to practice certain things and he mentioned you right away,” she said with a chuckle. “I hope it’s not a bother.”

“No, not at all,” Sasha answered, adjusting his sunglasses slightly. “I always have time to help a fellow Psychonaut.”

She smiled again - a particularly bright and charming smile that made Sasha grab his cigarette once more - and then stood up. Sasha had forgotten how tall she was. Though he was still taller than her, it was only by an inch or two. He was used to towering over the average person; it was a nice change of pace.

“That’s great to hear, Sasha!” Grand Head Zanotto was looking through some papers on his desk while he spoke. “The new classroom is finished if you two want to check it out while you train! Or go wherever. Doesn’t matter. Just let me or Agent Forsythe know if you need anything!”

They exited his office and started walking through the Nerve Center, ignoring the dozen Psychonauts levitating all over the room and chatting about anything under the sun.

Sasha noticed Agent Forsythe staring curiously at the two of them walking together and he couldn’t stop himself from smoking again.

“You smoke quite a bit,” Camilla commented.

“It’s been more than usual lately,” he responded as they exited the Nerve Center and made their way into the lobby. “Good for calming my nerves.”

There was a bit of hesitation before Agent Vodello spoke again. “I hope I’m not causing you more stress, I’m sure Truman could ask someone else if you’re busy!”

Sasha turned towards her, one eyebrow raised. “It has nothing to do with you,” he lied, having realized in the past hour that his urge to smoke increased every time Camilla’s looks or charm were mentioned around him. Or anytime she said something especially friendly. There was just something about her - Agent Mentallis wasn’t wrong when he called her pretty, but she was more than just pretty. She was show-stoppingly gorgeous. And she made Sasha feel nervous in ways he wasn’t quite used to. He’d been around plenty of beautiful people, but Camilla had a glow around her like no other. She lit up every room she was in like she harnessed the light of the sun itself. “I can’t pinpoint exactly what it’s related to, but I’m sure it’ll pass.”

“I hope so,” Camilla responded, glancing around the newly updated wing of the Motherlobe. “I haven’t been over here yet,” she said unprompted, spinning around as she levitated.

“I haven’t either.” Sasha watched her for a moment, then turned to take in the new hallway layout. “I suppose Agent Forsythe’s new office will go back here, then.”

She’d poked her head into the new classroom as he spoke - the room was finished being built a week or two ago and was still being filled with the appropriate furniture. So it looked a little empty. Not that it mattered, since the training would all be in Sasha’s head.

“We’ll be training here?” she asked curiously.

Sasha levitated past her and into the room, stopping in front of a set of chairs that had been left in the center of the floor. He pulled a small, colorful door out of his jacket pocket and let it hover above his hand. “I think we’ll cause less damage if we go into my mind.”

“Oh!” Camilla quickly joined him by the chairs. “I didn’t even consider that.”

“Have you…been inside someone else’s mind before?” he asked a little hesitantly, not sure where she was at in her training.

“Truman let me visit his mind not long after he visited mine.” She answered carefully, not making eye contact while she spoke. “It wasn’t for very long, though. I was still…working on some things.”

Sasha nodded, not knowing the specifics but understanding the gist. “I suppose you don’t have your own door, then.”

“I was actually just talking to Agent Mentallis about that!” Camilla answered. “He promised to make mine nice and sparkly.” She chuckled, then reached out to touch the edge of Sasha’s door. “Yours is beautiful. I wouldn’t have expected so many colors!”

He grabbed his cigarette and took one last drag, happy to get his money’s worth by smoking the stick as far as it could go. “Yes. Well. My mind is certainly not as colorful.”

She giggled at that response and took a seat in one of the chairs, brushing invisible dust off her dress and sitting up as straight as possible. “I’m ready when you are, Agent Nein.”

Sasha followed suit and took the seat across from her. He placed the small door on his forehead, closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and waited for the welcome intruder to find her way inside. He remembered his first time entering someone’s mind through a door - that person was Otto Mentallis, and that man’s mind was a disorganized mess. It’d given Sasha hives just walking through it, and encouraged him to keep his own mind as clean and organized as possible.

For himself, sure. But also for future guests.

A minute later and he was greeted by the sight of Camilla Vodello levitating around one side of his specifically crafted block of a mindscape.

“Now this is more what I expected,” she said thoughtfully.

He wondered if she meant that literally - that she’d been thinking about him and wondering what his mind looked like - but quickly shook that off. He was usually a master of controlling his thoughts and focusing…Agent Vodello just so happened to throw him off-balance. He needed to get a handle on that.

He adjusted his sunglasses, wondering when his censors would start to arrive. “Which powers would you like to work on?”

“I’m not the best at PSI-Blasting,” she admitted sheepishly. “Or connecting thoughts.”

“My mind is an excellent space for working on your Marksmanship skills,” Sasha responded. “I can set up some thoughts for you to connect, though we’ll have to put them back when we’re done.”

“Of course!” Camilla smiled at him, hands clasped behind her back. “I wouldn’t want to change your opinions like that.” She started to levitate, as she often did, and then went exploring around to another side of Sasha’s mind cube. She didn’t react much to anything - considering how clean Sasha kept it, he wasn’t surprised.

But then she let out a low “oh, hello!” and Sasha mentally focused on her to see what she was doing.

She was watching one of his memory vaults jumping around, making little noises at it as if she was speaking to a dog. It was strange, to say the least. Sasha levitated the vision of himself in his mind towards her to observe it closer.

He recognized which vault it was immediately. “You can open it if you’d like,” he said as he continued to watch her try to pet it. “Especially if you haven’t looked into a memory vault before. It’s a very unique experience.”

“Truman asked me not to look at his,” Camilla answered, reaching down to lightly scratch the memory vault. “Are you sure? If it’s too much, I can-”

“It’s fine.” He meant it, too.

She held eye contact for another moment, just in case he showed any sign of hesitation at all, then reached down and gently pet the memory vault on its head. It made a happy noise and then laid down and opened up for her, which Sasha thought was interesting. Usually he’d smack them or use telekinesis to hold them steady - he’d never watched someone coax one so gently before.

Agent Vodello spent a minute staring at the inside of the vault, and Sasha felt a voyeuristic discomfort from watching her do so. He didn’t have much of a choice, though, whether he stared at her directly or just felt her presence in his mind.

Eventually she stood up, a solemn look on her face. It wasn’t like he was the only person in the world who lost their mother at a young age, but he supposed he could’ve warned her.

She levitated over to him without saying a word, and before Sasha could open his mouth - her arms were suddenly wrapped around his neck and she was pressed up against him.

He didn’t know what to do. So he just stood there, completely stiff and still, until she backed away.

“I’m so sorry, Sasha,” she said softly, her hands held together in front of her chest. “She seemed like a wonderful person.”

Still a bit shaken by the hug, Sasha was frozen for a moment before finally shaking his head and reaching up to adjust his sunglasses. He needed a cigarette again. “I…yes, she was. Thank you for saying so.”

Camilla smiled at him and reached forward, placing one of her hands against his arm. “If you ever want to talk, I’d be happy to listen.”

The amount of affection he was receiving was a little overwhelming for Sasha, and he stared down at her hand for a few seconds before awkwardly clearing his throat and lightly shaking his head. “I appreciate the offer, but I’m fine. It was quite a long time ago.” He felt like he could breathe easier as she pulled her hand away. “Let’s focus on why we’re here - my censors should be showing up any moment now.”

They spent over an hour training in Sasha’s mind - blasting censors with blastokinesis, tossing censors at one another using telekinesis, slowing down time and watching the confusion cross the censors’ faces…it was fun, if he was being honest with himself. Sasha hadn’t had an opportunity to just blow off some steam inside his mind in several months.

One moment that he filed away for later was when he asked Camilla about pyrokinesis. She shook her head and claimed that fire just wasn’t her thing, so they moved on without it. But he was unfortunately quite curious about that. Was she in an accident that involved fire?

Or perhaps she just wasn’t confident at controlling it.

Either way, the subject seemed sensitive and he didn’t know her well enough to ask.

She blasted another small censor and took a deep breath before stretching out her arms and falling back, landing with a thud and closing her eyes.

Sasha levitated over and stood next to her, staring down at the serene look on her face. “Are you alright?”

“Just tired, darling, very tired,” she mumbled in response.

He felt his cheeks heat up slightly, not sure why she’d just called him that. Was she thinking about someone else? Was she so tired that she’d lost her verbal self control? “I…um,” he started, wanting to say something about it. But she looked very peaceful and unconcerned with her own words, it almost felt rude to say something. “...we can leave, if you’d like.”

She sighed again, opening her eyes to stare back at him. Then she smiled. “That sounds nice. I’m supposed to meet with Kim for lunch soon.”

Sasha hoped he didn’t look as embarrassed as he felt. The combination of that nickname and the smile she just gave him made him feel like there were angry butterflies trying to break out of his stomach. “If that can wait a little longer, I actually have something for you in my office.”

Camilla levitated back to a standing position and tilted her head - staring at him like he’d said something crazy. “...you do?”

He glanced away from her, feeling suddenly self-conscious. “Yes, um. Well, it’s from Agent Mentallis. A device he thought you might like to test for him.”

Her eyes widened and brightened at that, and Camilla grabbed her smelling salts and quickly made her way out of Sasha’s mind. When he opened his eyes again in the classroom, she was already standing and ready to go.

“This is the first time Agent Mentallis has thought of me for something like this!” she said excitedly, clapping her hands together in front of her. “What is it?”

Sasha stood up with her and started making his way out of the room. “You shouldn’t get too excited. It’s a camera. A…psychic camera.”

Camilla followed him, floating the whole way. “A psychic camera?”

“He, um…thought you could test it out for him. Take photos of…” Sasha paused, not sure if it would be weird to suggest she take photographs of herself. But that was the implication, wasn’t it? “...anything. It can apparently help you find figments in people’s minds.”

She smiled, though there was a look on her face that seemed more confused than excited. “I did enjoy collecting figments in Truman’s mind. Still, it seems a bit random.”

“Agent Mentallis mentioned something about you being, um…” Sasha reached into his pocket and grabbed a new cigarette, needing it desperately. “Photogenic.”

Camilla laughed and levitated ahead of him. She’d only been to his office once before, but it wasn’t difficult to remember the way there. “It’s not the first time an older man has said something like that about me, I suppose.”

Sasha suddenly felt mortified on her behalf. He stood still, the aquarium lighting up the left side of his face while his newly-lit cigarette lit up the right. “I’ll talk to him. He shouldn’t make comments like that. It’s not appropriate.”

She turned around and had an amused smile on her face. “I like photogenic, actually.” She paused in front of Sasha’s office door, waiting for him to catch up. “It’s kind of nice.”

Sasha decided that he would still say something to Agent Mentallis, whether she wanted him to or not. If he didn’t, the older man was guaranteed to continue making little comments or suggestions or implications and Sasha Nein was not a man who enjoyed being teased or watching his coworker be teased. Especially when there was nothing to be teased about! So he stepped past Camilla, let his office door open, and quickly used telekinesis to grab the camera and bring it over.

“Ohh, it’s cute!” she said with a smile. “Perhaps Kim will let me take photos of her, too.”

He grabbed one side of his sunglasses with his thumb and middle finger, adjusting them slightly. Again. “Don’t feel any obligation to do this right away. Agent Mentallis tends to jump from one project to another very quickly.”

“I’ll keep that in mind.” Agent Vodello levitated the camera into her surprisingly spacious purse and then glanced at her watch. “I should go meet with Kim now. But I’d love to train more tomorrow if you’re free?”

Sasha raised a single eyebrow. “Um…yes, I’m free. Should we meet in the classroom again at 11?”

“Yes, that’s perfect!” She hopped up, back to levitating as she liked to do. “Then I’ll see you tomorrow, darling!”

She quickly exited his office and left Sasha with the same question he’d had earlier about her use of the term darling. After that second instance, he couldn’t use the excuse that she was tired or delusional. But…it was strange, wasn’t it? The last person in his life who’d called him anything close to darling was his mother, though it admittedly felt quite different coming from Agent Vodello. He wondered if there was a possibility she just talked like that and he hadn’t paid enough attention to notice before. There were a few Psychonauts at the Motherlobe who frequently used slang that Sasha didn’t understand, so…that would certainly make more sense than anything else.

He took a deep breath and decided to move on. There was no use lingering on such a simple little thing.

#sashamilla #psychonauts #sasha nein #milla vodello #truman zanotto #otto mentallis #science party #lunchtime yoga #carro fics #carrofics

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is-there-a-rt-sequel-yet · 3 months ago

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Day #4452

I think I'm way too anxious recently cause I couldn't fall asleep until like 6 am yesterday 😭 anyway I wonder if Ralph has ever watched the sun rise after a heist 🌄

#rhythm thief #mod || niko

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lilimonarch · 6 months ago

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Overthinking the Injury - Haikyu!! Oneshot

WC: ~4452

Yaku has been overthinking a little too much lately. His fencing performance has not been to par and he needs to redeem himself if they have any hope of qualifying for nationals. He has his strategies planned out and everything is going to according to plan! Well... until he hears a cracking sound on the strip and realizes it's from his ankle.

Yaku sprains his ankle at a fencing meet but decides to keep going anyways.

https://archiveofourown.org/works/56901724

Yaku has been overthinking everything as of lately.

School was being more annoying than it should be, his fencing was not as good as it should be, and the Nekoma Men’s Fencing team was on a very annoying losing streak as of lately. If there is something Yaku hated more than his perfectly functional techniques not doing their job, it was losing, as a team. Of course, in preparations to hopefully break their losing streak, Nekoma was up against Nohebi Academy this weekend… with Coach Nekomata unavailable, and Kuroo was stressed.

This left the big three; Yaku, Kai, and Kuroo, in the locker room on Friday night with their captain pacing back and forth, overthinking everything almost as bad as Yaku was, at this point of the evening. “Guys what if I like… die,” Kuroo looks at his fellow third years, his squad, with a look of idiotic worry. “Who’s going to coach the second years and do all this work if I die?”

“Your vice-captain, me.” Kai sighs.

“You’re not going to die,” Yaku rolled his eyes, but deep down, anxiety was eating at him. He knew he was off his game, and if they continued this losing streak (half of which was Yaku’s fault, he swears it), he could kiss their shot at nationals goodbye. “Just don’t get injured between now and tomorrow, we beat Nohebi, and then all is right in the world.”

Kai shakes his head, locking up the room as the three of them exit and start to finally call it a night. “Yeah, we’ve just got to hold the fort down. We can last one competition without Coach. You got this, substitute coach Kuroo,” Kai gives a gentle punch at Kuroo, only feeding into Kuroo’s shenanigans.

“Damn… it sounds like I got demoted. Captain sounded way cooler!”

The three of them start to walk home, and Yaku notices his mind starting to wander. It wanders to their last meet the weekend prior against Fukurodani, losing an embarrassing 2-7, and much to everyone’s surprise, Yaku couldn’t snag a single bout. Sure, all his bouts were close, two 5-4 losses and a 5-3 loss against Bokuto, but that was terrible! He was considered one of Nekoma’s best, how did he manage to fumble all his bouts the week prior… that badly?

Practice this past week was not much better. He kept consistently losing to Kuroo, the only person who was much of a challenge on their team, and he even let Lev score two whole points on him. Lev! If Lev is even managing to score points on him, it must be a terrible practice.

It's just a slump, Yaku figures. He just needed to get his groove back and all would be right in the world. All he had to do was get it together, try a little harder, and not be the reason Nekoma did not qualify for nationals because of their regular season record.

“Yaku?”

Yaku shakes his head, and he realizes he is standing at the intersection where he is supposed to turn while the others continue forward. He was totally overthinking it all again. "Gosh, sorry guys. I must have zoned out. I’ll see y’all tomorrow,” he flashes a grin and starts to turn away but is stopped by a gentle tap on his shoulder. “What is it?”

“We got this,” Kuroo reminds him, giving a dorky thumbs up. “Nohebi? It’s lightwork. We got tomorrow in the bag.”

“Oh… right. Of course we do!”

This meet was far from being considered lightwork.

With Kuroo running from one end of the gym to the other to make sure all the sheets were filled out to each squad’s liking, and Kai being off making sure the blades passed weights, it left Yaku alone in his thoughts to overthink his strategies until it was time to face the Men’s Nohebi Academy Fencing team: Kuguri, Numai, and that bitch called Daishou.

Yaku stammers at the thoughts. No, be polite. It’s Kuguri, Numai, and Daishou. Just their captain.

Of course, Yaku was the first one on the strip, against the bitch.

He knew Nohebi Academy and Nekoma had their… rivalries, to put it lightly. Especially Daishou and Kuroo specifically, which extended to the rest of the main lineup. With Daishou being their captain and likely their best player, the feeling could be described as annoyed when Yaku figured he had to go first.

No matter, he’s fenced Daishou before, and beaten him. He’s got this.

The referee is about to start the clock. “On guard. Fencers ready? Fence!”

The first of many exchanges had begun and Yaku, finally, seemed to be getting his groove back. The first point was his! The second point was his! He was winning 2-0 in the first match of the day with no issues!

Maybe we do have this in the bag.

“On guard. Fencers ready? Fence!”

Out of the gate of this exchange, Daishou is practically charging at him. Yaku’s eyes widen in surprise as the sudden attack completely catches him off-guard, and Daishou scores his first point. Even beneath the mask, Yaku can vividly see the evil smirk from his opponent. Almost as if… he’s being mocked!

That bitch!

Okay… in and out. It’s just one point. We just have to go back to what we were doing before. It was working, no problem!

Yaku takes another deep breath, gets into position, and the next exchange begins. Strategic movements turn into attacks of desperation, as Daishou scores again and again. Here, the overthinking began again, because in theory, Yaku should be winning the match! He’s doing everything right and correct but Daishou can just run in and take points which should be rightfully his? Yaku was winning 2-0 before, how is he trailing 2-3 now?

“Yaku! Shake it off!” Kuroo shouted from the sidelines, Yaku nodding from underneath his helmet and banging the sides of his legs. He’s better than this, and with the way the match is going, he can’t afford to lose, especially not to Daishou.

It was eternally frustrating, watching his opponent rush in recklessly and still score those points. The worst part of it all, Yaku knew that was Daishou’s game, to bring his spirits low enough to where the bout would be lost, and he would be off his game for the rest of the match!

Daishou was taller, and would have point priority from the start, but Yaku was quicker. Sure, Daishou was good at offense, but Yaku was great at defense. All he had to do was retreat faster than Daishou could advance. All he had to do was use the open distance to hit that stupid blade and go in for the attack.

All he had to do was work a little harder.

“On guard.”

Yaku took a deep breath in, feeling the flow of his blood throughout his body, his presence anchored to the ground.

“Fencers ready?”

He extended his blade, bringing it back to position with the tip of the foil aimed for his opponent’s eye-level. He was not going to lose.

“Fence!”

As predicted, Daishou practically ran at him right out of the gate, but Yaku was prepared this time. His back foot retreated, followed by his front, repeated until he felt the space open up for him-

Crack!

It all happened too fast for Yaku to even understand what happened. One second, he was retreating on the strip, attempting to open the distance to prepare his parry-repost. The next, he had heard a crack-like noise from his left ankle before he came crumbling to the ground, his entire side hitting the gym floor with a bang.

He didn’t hear the halt! From the referee. He didn’t hear how the rest of the gym went silent. All Yaku felt was the instant throbbing in his ankle, the odd sensation not perfectly described as pain, but a numbness.

Yaku immediately went to sit up from where he was pathetically laying on the ground, going to clutch his ankle while he watched Kuroo jump up from his spot on the sidelines. “Yaku!” He shouted, rushing to his side with a spare hoodie in hand. “Don’t get up too quickly, okay? Does it hurt?”

Yaku looked up, still trying to formulate his words and compose himself after the adrenaline spike while Kuroo used the hoodie like a sling, lifting up Yaku’s ankle and elevating it as the referee neared the duo, Daishou standing at the other end of the trip with a look of almost concerned. “Do you need five minutes? We can call a medical timeout and…”

A medical timeout?

“We’ll take the five minutes,” Kuroo answered, the referee setting a clock for five minutes. While they waited for the athletic trainer to arrive, Yaku just sat there, acknowledging the growing awkward feeling in his ankle.

No, this can’t be happening! It’s just a little twist, I moved it wrong. It’s not actually sprained. Not now! Not like this!

“Yaku.”

He blinked a few times, looking up to see Kuroo lowering the makeshift sling, the medical trainer now standing between the two of them. “Hi, Yaku, let’s see what’s going on with you, okay? What happened?” She asked, and Yaku tightened his fists as he tried to form the words.

“I fell on it.”

On the inside, his brain was running a million miles an hour. He’s never needed a trainer before, he’s never missed a competition before, he’s never had to forfeit! What if he has to forfeit this match, what if he’s benched? There is nobody at his level who can replace him, they would be absolutely screwed! He could kiss their chance at nationals goodbye and it would be entirely his fault!

Oh my God, Kuroo was left in charge! The one meet where Kuroo was left in charge of the team, Yaku goes and gets injured! He’s screwed!

The trainer brought her hands to Yaku’s ankle, pressing down on an area he already felt swollen up, Yaku doing his best to suppress a wince at the awkwardness. That’s what worried him the most. It was not exactly pain; it was something else. He was not sure if not being able to feel the pain was a good thing or a bad thing. “On a scale of 1 to 10, how bad does it hurt?”

Seven.

“…Three?”

Again, it didn’t necessarily hurt. It was more an awkward feeling of his muscles being ripped apart on the inside, but maybe the pain was starting to set in. Yaku figured that it would be fine, he could still fence… right?

“I think you’re fine.”

Oh, thank God.

Slowly, Yaku got up on his feet, slightly staggering as he tried to stabilize his left foot again. His eyes move to the score on the strip, down 3-2. He hasn’t scored a point in over a minute. “You ready to go?” The referee asks him, ushering Kuroo back to the sides.

Yaku holds the helmet in his hands, trying to ignore the sinking feeling in his chest and the continuing throbbing in his ankle. He looks at where Kuroo is sitting on the edge of his seat, a face of worry. Shifting his stance so his weight is balanced better, Yaku flashes a smile at his squad before turning to the director and giving them a thumbs up.

“Alright. On guard, fencers ready?”

It’s only the first bout, and Yaku hates how unsteady he feels on his feet. That being said, it was not as if he had better options. He would not be caught dead losing his only bout just to get injured.

Not yet at least.

“Fence!”

Once again, Daishou is practically charging at him with his blade far out leaving his body open. Yaku attempts to retreat once but feels this numbness start to grow, crouching down on instinct and stabbing up as Daishou does not have time to stop himself.

Two seconds and a sigh of relief later, the point is awarded to Yaku. He has to bite the inside of his cheek to prevent himself from outwardly wincing as he returns to the starting line of the strip, gripping his blade extra tight.

“Nice! Good job!”

“Way to go, Yaku! That’s how we do it!”

That’s the reason he did this. This sport was practically his everything… and he was plenty good at it too. The added bonus was watching that smirk wipe itself off of Daishou’s face. Yaku was back in this.

Back in it enough to win.

He wins. He watches as Daishou walks away in defeat, and the bouts continue on and Kunimi is easy enough to beat.

He wins again.

His ankle is getting worse.

Yaku keeps overthinking.

“Damn, you can’t be serious, why is it always on me?” Yaku rolls his eyes and groans at the realization that both Nekoma and Nohebi were completely tied 4-4, and the winner would be determined by this final bout; Yaku’s final bout. “Kuroo, how do you sell to Daishou? You said you were going to beat him 5-0!”

Kuroo huffs as he sits down on the bench with a huff as Kai helps Yaku hook into the machinery, sneaking worried glances while Kuroo rants about his damaged ego. “I don’t see you criticizing Kai for selling too!”

Yaku rolled his eyes, shifting his weight onto his good foot as he clipped the wires on. “Well at least he got points, Kuroo.”

“Okay… so it was bad. Just focus on your game, little guy.”

“Oh- you little…”

Kai gives Yaku a pat on the shoulder, Yaku wincing at the sudden increase of weight on him. “Are you okay?”

No.

Stop overthinking it. You’re fine.

“Yes,” Yaku forces a smile, even though his ankle is starting to kill him. “I’ll be okay.”

Yaku heads up to the strip, Nohebi’s anchor on the other end. He was taller and stronger, and a much more offensive player (as Nohebi does, Yaku can’t help he will always be a defender first). While the bout proves incredibly difficult at first, Yaku manages to get his footing with a healthy lead of 4-1.

It’s as if his past matches have come to hunt him when his ankle starts to throb.

It’s the desperation as his injury worsens to get that final point and get the hell off the strip.

Yaku will admit it later, it was a reckless first lunge forward which is the start of the change in pace. He stumbles a bit on the lunge, leaving his torso wide open for a counterattack from Numai.

Current score: 4-2.

“Shake it off! Focus!”

The next exchange begins, and Yaku is advancing further into the other side of the strip, holding his blade out in hopes of that final point. When Numai advances towards him, Yaku rushes in for an attack which is quickly parried as another hit lands in the center of his chest.

Current score: 4-3.

“Come on! Watch your distance!”

Yaku can feel the pressure building up, and the ache in his foot as he is practically limping back to the starting line of the strip. He can feel eyes looking down on him, as if he is weak.

He’s not weak. It’s just a slump.

His breath is shaky as he gets into position again, giving a nod to the referee to show that he is okay, he has to be. Once again, Yaku is rushing it, but so is Numai. The distance is closing in and the shouts of his teammates begging Yaku to get out of that battle, to reassess his options before going in again, go unheard.

The infighting continues, and Yaku is pushed down in hopes of getting a clean shot in the flurry of remises when he is aiming from a lower level. His back knee is touching the ground as Yaku desperately tries to hit something, anything to end the exchange.

Crack!

Yaku’s ankle twists the wrong way, feeling the bang as the side of his foot hits the floor.

The machine blares white, an off target from Yaku’s side.

Current score: 4-3.

Yaku shouts in agony before he falls to his knees, clenching his fists as he tries to catch his breath, the pain traveling from his foot up to his lower leg. His vision blurs from the pain as tears threaten to pour right in the middle of the strip. Yaku’s used up his only medical time out, he can’t back out now.

In the corner of his vision, he sees Kuroo jump up and call a timeout, the referee nodding before she can card him for the outburst. “Yaku, just breathe. Alright, I’m going to help you up and then we’re going to talk strategy,” Kuroo brings his hands to Yaku’s, slowly getting him back on his feet.

For the first time in ages, Yaku is genuinely doubting himself. His breath is heavy, beads of sweat are pouring down his forehead, and his hands are visibly shaking. “I’m so sorry, Kuroo,” he mutters, looking at his opponent across the strip. “I don’t think I got it.”

“Oh, shut up, you got this in the bag. Lightwork, remember?” Kuroo leans down a bit and forcibly lays his hands on each of Yaku’s shoulders, pushing weight down to stabilize him properly. “You got this. You’re the one who’s up, remember? Why the hell are you trying to force that last point when you’re winning and there’s only 15 seconds left? Especially on an injury, just play defense. Wait for him to mess up, he’s the one rushing for a point, not you.”

“Timeouts over, on guard?”

“You got this.”

Once again, Yaku is left alone on the strip.

His breath is shaking as Numai stands across the strip, getting back to where they stood before that unexpected pause. Behind the mask, Yaku watches as Numai flashes him a smile, genuine even.

Right, I’m up. I got this.

“Fencers ready?”

Play defense, Yaku. You’re good at defense, just do that.

“Fence!”

Immediately, Yaku holds his blade out, threatening a touch as he slowly retreats backwards, biting the inside of his cheek as his ankle throbs with ever step. 15… 14… 13… 12… There are only 11 seconds on the clock now as Numai cautiously tries to find the opening to tie the game.

Defense. Just play defense.

10 seconds left and Numai charges in with his blade too low. There! That’s the opportunity Yaku was waiting for! A quick tap on his blade and the tip is flying straight to the middle of Numai’s chest. The opening has never been clearer as the buzzer in the background goes off, glowing with a satisfying green.

“Touch left. Score is five to three, bout,” the referee finally lowers their hands signifying the end, and Yaku breathes a much-needed sigh of relief. Taking off his helmet, he brings it under his arm and goes to shake Numai’s hand.

They won! Losing streak? Eradicated. They won and nothing went wrong! Yaku is practically beaming as he makes it back to his teammates, but collapsing right into Kuroo’s waiting arms, his ankle absolutely doing him no favors.

Shit. Almost forgot about that part.

“Yeah, sit the hell down. We’re getting the trainer back, and you’re not getting on strip again for a while,” Kuroo sits Yaku down, Kai propping Yaku’s left leg on the rest of the bench.

“What? Kuroo, I swear I’m-” a shock of pain soars in his leg, and Yaku is immediately shut up. “But what about shaking hands? Signing scores?”

Kai shook his head, ruffling Yaku’s hair much to his dismay. “I got that. You don’t move a muscle,” the vice-captain nods before heading to the referee to do all the sportsmanlike activities while Kuroo runs to get the athletic trainer. It leaves Yaku alone to gather his thoughts, trying to take his mind off the never-ending pain in his ankle.

What if he’s out for longer because he pushed himself too hard?

What if he hadn’t, and they had lost? What if this was the deciding match before their win-loss record became too low and they were out of the running for nationals?

What if when he returns, he won’t be able to fence the same way he did before?

“Um… Yaku?”

Yaku blinks a few times before adjusting the ice on his ankle, looking around him to see the three players from Nohebi Academy surrounding him, Numai being the first to hold his hand out for a handshake which Yaku accepts. “Good game, hope the ankle is not too bad. I just came back from an injury; I know how much it sucks.”

“Yeah, thanks. Good game,” Yaku is typically the much more talkative one, but now, he can hardly muster the energy to do anything but briefly compliment his opponents and shake their hands before laying down across the bench, waiting for Kuroo to return, with Kai to keep him company.

He even shook Daishou’s hand. That really took a lot out of him.

“You really pushed yourself there, didn’t you?” Kai comments, sitting on the bench beside Yaku, taking an absentminded swig from his water bottle. Post-match fatigue was no joke, but that’s just Yaku overthinking it again. “We would’ve found someone to sub you in. I’m sure Yamamoto would’ve jumped at the idea of being on the main lineup and delivered…” he pauses. “Or were you overthinking everything again?”

Yaku’s face lifts up at the thought, glancing at Kai who had this all-knowing soft smile only someone like Kai could wear. “How did you…”

“It’s obvious. Both you and Kuroo were stressed out of your minds about this. Him more outwardly than you, but it’s pretty easy to see,” he chuckles, handing Yaku his water bottle.

“This means everything to him… and to me. I haven’t been doing the greatest at practice, I wanted to redeem myself!” Yaku sighs, bringing his hand to try and ease the pain in his ankle. “I’m usually so reliable, last week really shook me up. And now?”

“You like fencing, right?”

“Yeah! Of course!”

“Then remember that part first. It’s a sport, stop overthinking it. Sure, there are all the strategies, but you’re just a good fencer. It’ll get you out of your head,” Kai smiles, Yaku absentmindedly nodding at the advice before seeing Kuroo start to make his way back.

“Yaku! How are you doing, buddy? Hanging in there?” Kuroo jumps up from the side, the same athletic trainer from earlier arriving.

“Hanging in there is one way to put it.”

The trainer shoos the two other members of the varsity lineup to the side, repeating the same process as earlier in the day. “I want you to be honest this time when I ask if it hurts, okay?” She sighs, rather exasperated. If Yaku was not going to before, the glares from Kuroo and Kai are enough to keep him honest. The trainer moves her hands to the middle of the ankle, before Yaku immediately winces at the touch. “Yeah, sorry about that. It’s pretty swollen, definitely a sprain. I’m going to wrap it up for you, and I’m sure your lovely teammates can help with your stuff and making sure you don’t put any weight on that for a while.”

Yaku feels his heart sink. No weight on it, how is he supposed to train? “Any? But…”

“Don’t worry about that. We’ll make sure he stays off of it. Right, Kai?” Kuroo smiles and Kai nods, the trainer finishing the wrap and taking the ice away, giving a quick smile to the three of them before leaving them be.

“Guys, I swear I’m okay,” Yaku gives a nervous laughter, moving his foot down to the ground and attempting to get up, immediately being stopped by Kuroo.

Kuroo shakes his head, looking at how the rest of their team is doing at the meet. “No, Yaku. You’re deflecting. It’s fine, stop overthinking it. You’ll be back before you know it. If that’s not before next competition, that’s okay too. We’ll manage.”

Yaku looks at the sincere look from Kai, many nods of agreement from Kuroo, and lifts his leg back up to be elevated and lays against the bench. He brings his hand to cover his face as silent tears start to pour. “Yaku? Are you okay?” Kai asks.

“Of course I am! It’s just, the gym lights are bright. Pollen making my eyes water,” he chuckles, though the words come out in between sobs. Yaku can’t even tell why he is crying: if it’s the pain in his ankle, the constant overthinking, or everything finally settling in, and he did not actually fail his team.

He’ll be okay.

A few minutes go by and Yaku finally composes himself, sitting up and seeing the younger squad across the gym. He’s trying to get a good look at the strip, but there are too many people in the way and it’s hard to see from his current spot. “Guys, can we go watch the second year’s match?” Yaku asks, gesturing to his wrapped ankle.

Kuroo immediately grins, but instead of sling Yaku’s arms over his shoulder like expected, he goes down and swoops and Yaku up into his arms, carrying him easily. “Oh my gosh, Kuroo! What are you doing?” Yaku shouts, giving annoyed glances to both him and Kai, who is bursting with laughter on the sides.

“The trainer said no weight on it, I’m just doing my job and making sure of it,” Kuroo shrugs, carrying Yaku across the gym with Kai close behind, giggling relentlessly. “Just stop and relax. Who’s going to judge?”

Yaku huffed, but his shoulders sank, and he finally relaxed. Kuroo sat him down on the bleachers closer to where Kenma, Fukunaga, and Yamamoto were fencing. For the first time in a while, he wasn’t overthinking anything.

Maybe a break doesn’t sound too bad-

“Fuck. Guys, I think you actually have to prepare my funeral,” Kuroo exclaims slightly dramatically, curling up and covering his face. “I think I’m going to die.”

“Kuroo?” Kai turns at the captain’s antics. “What are you even talking about?”

“The one meet where Coach Nekomata leaves me in charge, our best player gets injured… and continues on an injury! On my watch! He’s going to kill me!” Kuroo shouts, groaning at the prospect.

“Yeah… shit. My bad, you’re actually screwed,” Yaku jokes, much to the annoyance of Kuroo.

“Not helping!” Kuroo huffs, leaving the other two laughing in the middle of the bout, Yaku’s smile going from ear to ear.

For real this time, maybe a break doesn’t sound too bad.

#Lili's fanfictions #haikyuu!!#haikyuu #fanfiction #yaku morisuke #haikyuu yaku #haikyuu kuroo #kuroo tetsuro #fluff #sprainedankle #fencing #different sport #haikyuu kai #nekoma

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