#ALSO i just really wanted to make a design for him hehe

[rapidhighway]

Anon back again, what's the story to your organic metal au?

The last ask response has given me many questions, why does Metal seem nervous when Eggman greets him?

Eating up this AU, looking forward to whatever you're cooking

i mean theres a lot that has changed and a lot that i havent worked out but the basic idea was that metal somehow became organic (i have no idea how that happened xd) but because he's got no programming eggman cant force him to do his bidding and he rebels against him. He still wants to kill sonic. badly. but doesnt want to be eggmans lapdog anymore. most of this is just pure self idulgent stuff bc i want to put him in situations. a little bit of plot is in there

[sysig]

Those wacky skeletons ♥ (Patreon)

[toytulini]

if you draw enough monster ocs, when you go back to drawing a human character, it feels like "sameface syndrome" everytime, by virtue of their face being. human.

[dirt-str1der]

1998 trigun literally wins because i was terrified that it would only be stampede and i was preemptively crying and hugging myself then the haul

[silkentine]

All I could think while drawing Nami was, “Wouldn’t you like to know, weatherboy?” And, of course, with Robin I was thinking, “save a horse… 🥵”

Design Notes and other opining below the cut:

For Nami, I wanted to go for a mix of cocky Jersey mafia newbie and surfer boy. I like to think that some of the horrendous outfit choices that Sanji makes (especially in the movies) were actually picked out by Nami. She’s the shopper!!! But yeah, the vibrant swim trunks and graphic tees just scream Nami. I also wanted to put him in a wetsuit/rash guard because I think that’s a sexy look so sue me if you hate it. You cannot argue with me that Nami doesn’t wear swimsuits as clothes.

He’s toned but not as muscular as Robin or Luffy (for example) because he isn’t a front-line fighter, I want him to maintain the same kind of role that Nami has in the animanga. He’s the best navigator in the world!! I couldn’t decide if I wanted to change the violent tendencies that Nami has, but ultimately I think he’d still give the more deserving members of the crew a healthy wallop (although I might portray it more cartoonishly). Boy Piece!Nami still grew up under Arlong’s authority so he spent a lot of his childhood walking on eggshells to protect his village and his brother, Nojiko, so I think he never really got to learn “you’re not supposed to hit people just because they frustrate you” lesson. I gave him a shark-tooth necklace because surely Arlong had a few loose teeth to spare once Luffy took her down. Victory spoils LOL

If he can get the girls to stop wrestling and sit down quietly for a while, he likes to host card games (with betting, of course) or watch the clouds while sipping whatever fruity cocktail Sanji whips up. I believe that Canon!Nami is a total lesbian, and I can’t possibly envision a Nami who doesn’t like women so Boy Piece!Nami is bi. I am, of course, a Namivivi truther and Vivi is also a man in this AU. I don’t hate Sanami within this dynamic though��� lots to think about.

Okay!!! All-shipper mindset aside, let’s talk Robin. I gave him long hair because 1) it’s hot and 2) I think it makes him look like Dragon. Yeahhh, I subscribe to the Luffy and Robin are half-siblings theory because I think it’s funny and makes some sense. Crocodile is 100% Luffy’s Mom in this AU and I think Robin knows it LOL

For his outfits, I wanted to lean a bit more Indiana Jones where I could; he’s still primarily cowboy inspired though. For the main look, I went with the Skypeia color palette hehe, I think Robin looks good in yellow. I did some flower-petal shaped color blocking on his chaps because I think it’s cute and subtle. I really love that the powers of the Hana-Hana-no-mi are like… unexpected for a “flower flower” fruit and I think Robin would be more aware that juxtaposition as a guy. You might also be wondering about the gloves and I initially just had it for his cowboy look but I decided to put them on all the outfits up until the events of Enies Lobby. Canon!Robin has a really difficult childhood and I think it’s exacerbated by the fact that she’s a girl on her own. If Robin was a boy, he’d probably have an easier time living on his own but would be a lot less emotionally open. All of these elements combine to make him want that physical barrier between his real hands and the world. Once he can trust that the Strawhats will always be there for him, he’s more willing to be more physically open.

I also think it’d be cute if he was much more of a coffee drinker :3c I see Canon!Robin as a connoisseur who likes a well-brewed espresso but Boy Piece!Robin needs a cup of joe (no matter its quality) every chance he can get. So I drew him with his special #1 ARCHAEOLOGIST mug.

It would make me so happy if you left your thoughts in the tags or replies!! Even if you hate everything about them, I just really like engagement hahaha. I’m thinking girl Usopp is next despite the poll results because she’s on my mind rn (don’t hold me to this, LOL I’m fickle). I’m making these for fun so I just wanna make designs in the order that interests me the most. Check out the tag “girl piece” on my blog to see all the genderbends I have so far. And happy pride!!!

[blueish-bird]

there are JJK figurine blind bags I’ve been occasionally buying for myself — I’d gotten 3 out of 4 without duplicates, but considering that I had a 25% chance to get Megumi/avoid duplicates, I’d made peace with the low likelihood of completing my collection. But, when I went to buy another one today, someone had partially opened a blind bag and I could see Megumi was inside!

in conclusion: thank you whoever opened and didn’t take anything from a blind bag at my local target. my collection is complete and I’m very happy about it

All Four of Them

[lupucs]

Light World class pic ☀️

Wireframe:

Solid View:

Raw Render (without comp):

Wooo its finally done peeps! At last, here's the Deltarune Light World group render featuring Alphys's whole class! It's sort of a counterpart to my Dark World group render from a couple days ago. I also added some comp to improve the lighting and reused an old bg (some of you might remember which anim that's from hehe).

From left to right: Susie, Kris, Berdly, Noelle, Alphys, Jockington, Temmie, Catti, Monster Kid and Snowy!

These models were a ton of work to make but overall I'm really happy with how this turned out. The only light world model missing here is Rudy... I didn't know how to add him here since this was supposed to be a class pic of sorts, but maybe I'll make a designated render for him one day, since I really like his character even though he doesn't get a lot of screentime in-game. Oh, also first look at Deltarune Alphys!! Since I already made her rig for my Undertale animation, I just had to model her Deltarune clothes and bind em to the rig with an extra switch.

Anyways, feel free to use this as a wallpaper if you want!

Here's a link to the full resolution should the resolution be crushed by Tumblr.

[hannieehaee]

hey ;)) could you write a svt reaction where they're being interviewed by foreign singer reader, who is too flirtatious and which is the crush of all of them and they can't help but look amazed at her and a little nervous too <3

also, I'm a big fan of your work, I love it! Thank you very much! 😔🤌🏻

being interviewed by their celebrity crush

content: afab reader, fluff, reader is a lil flirty in some of these hehe, a lil second hand embarrassment, etc.

wc: 2215

a/n: agsjsk loved writing this tysm for reading and for requesting!! idk if i understood ur request 100% correctly so i just did a reaction for each member i hope u enjoy! <3

masterlist

seungcheol -

even as leader, he would try to pass on the title to someone else for the day, not wanting to embarrass himself in front of you and the cameras. would be consistently teased by the guys through every sentence exchanged between the two of you. cursing both joshua and vernon in his mind for refusing to help him out, he'd power through the interview, trying to keep his heartbeat as calm as possible as you smiled and giggled at his cute demeanor towards you. would be so in awe of you at the way you paid full attention to his responses, not minding the extra wait as the translator interpreted his answers. would come out of the experience even more in love with into you, kicking himself for not taking a leap and asking for your number or something. would be very pleasantly surprised a few hours later at finding out you'd had your manager give his manager your contact info, instructing that it was specifically for seungcheol to use.

jeonghan -

jeonghan wasn't one to really wear his heart on his sleeve when it came to liking a person. he'd probably have the ability to remain calm even if facing you, his one and only celebrity crush since predebut. he'd have it all planned already; just stick to the back and nod at vernon and joshua's answers. would not have expected his members to throw him into the wolves, taking advantage of seungcheol's absence and informing you, the celebrity interviewer, that he was the stand-in leader, and that all questions should be directed to him. would only be caught off guard for a few seconds, soon being able to keep up with you (thanks to the translator) and even turning up the charm a little bit, enjoying the back and forth between the two of you. would still be a bit surprised when you approached him after the interview, blatantly flirting with him even through the language barrier.

joshua -

so excited to finally meet you, having looked forward to this since the moment he heard seventeen would be attending an award show you were scheduled to conduct celebrity interviews for. would've thrown your name around many times any time discussions about collabs came around, but being disappointed it never really did anything, thus preventing him from meeting you until now. now that you were finally meeting, he'd take advantage of being one of the designated english speaking members™️ and take up the entirety of the screen time in the interview flirting with you in the most lowkey way he could. would maybe trade numbers with you by the end of it.

jun -

he knew he was a handsome guy, but he'd still be incredibly flustered the moment he caught you, his long-time celebrity crush, making eyes at him from across the red carpet, practically inciting him with your stare as the group approached you for their turn at a quick red carpet interview. would be twice as flustered upon noticing you stood as close to him as possible as you conducted the interview, throwing him a smile every so often. he'd feel kinda disappointed at himself afterwards for not having spoken to you at all during it, having felt too shy even if you had showed blatant interest in him. his day would improve, however, as soon as his manager approached him a few hours later, letting him know your manager had given him instructions to provide him with your contact info, even with a cute little handwritten note form you requesting he call you sometime.

soonyoung -

do you guys remember that one interview with that one rlly pretty interviewer where he started singing spider and just wouldnt stop even as the guys kept dying of second hand embarrassment? he'd do the exact same thing with you. if you happened to mention anything related to him in the interview whether it be a solo song or his part in a new cb or some choreo he made, he'd instantly try and show off to you like a little kid, not realizing the second hand embarrassment the rest of the members were feeling. if you were any tiny bit flirty though, he would probably go into shut down mode and just giggle at everything you said, zero thoughts in his head as he nodded and agreed to everything you said in complete awe of his celeb crush even acknowledging him. would be so excited at the interaction he'd approach you afterwards hoping to get you to follow him on instagram and physically cheering the moment you followed him back, even directing him to message you sometime.

wonwoo -

so shy and reserved. he has a tendency of blending into the background, always being talked over during any type of show or interview that involved all members. this time he had been kinda grateful for it, feeling too anxious to interact with someone whose music had impacted him so much (and also someone he might kind of maybe have a thing for). he'd feel extremely touched at you going out of your way to get his responses during the interview, claiming you were a fan and had always noticed he sat back sometimes, wanting to hear from him specifically. would not be able to stop looking at you in awe after that, wishfully thinking that maybe his favorite artist had taken some type of interest in him. when you approached him after the interview, shyly trying to start conversation, he'd muster all knowledge he had in english to communicate with you, hoping this would be the first of many conversations.

jihoon -

would be so shy and easily flustered. do not dare even speak to him directly because he will break. he's been crushing on you since forever, not just admiring you as an artist but being so unbelievably attracted to you he had no idea how to even make eye contact with you. the moment he heard you were gonna be the one interviewing them he started looking into flights to get his ass back to korea. under no circumstance was he going to embarrass himself in front of you. if you dared even try to compliment him (don't even mention the word flirting to him rn), he would turn bright red and stumble over his words, making the guys cackle behind him as he tried to work his way through a sentence. would reach an undiscovered shade of red the moment you approached him after the interview, asking for his contact info under the vice of interest in his producing skills, but your flirty tone would have him thinking otherwise, causing him to heat up even more.

seokmin -

embarrassment is usually scared of seokmin. he can do anything, anywhere, anyhow, and not feel a single ounce of shame at it. but this was the exception. upon hearing he'd finally be meeting you as you interviewed them for a special celebrity interview, he was beyond embarrassed in advance. he knew there would be no way for him to act normal around you. he was in love with you! okay, maybe that was too much, but he did have a huge thing for you, even having fantasized about your first meeting many times before. nothing could have prepared him for the moment the interview started and you revealed (with no warning whatsoever) that you'd been a carat for a few years now, biasing none other than him. the teasing from the members was the least of his problems as he attempted to formulate some type of charming response to you, ultimately settling for an uncharacteristically quiet 'thank you' as his ears burned. would muster all the courage within himself to approach you after the interview, coaxing vernon into acting as interpreter as he expressed his liking of you as an artist. both him and vernon would widen their eyes in surprise the moment you asked vernon to let seokmin know he was welcome to contact you any time if he ever wanted to get to know you in the future, handing him a note with all your personal contact info.

mingyu -

even though he was a little nervous at the idea of meeting you after all these years of crushing on you, he would still be 100% down for it, loving the chance to finally meet you face to face. would go out of his way to be the main one you interact with the entire time you're in the same room, even if there's a language barrier between you. after getting a bit comfortable around you, would do his best to flirt even if you two couldn't understand each other very well. would make his interest be known, hoping maybe this won't be the last time you two interact. not too surprised when you began to show interest back, using this opportunity to hand over his phone with a new contact popped up, acting visibly giddy upon seeing you register your number, winking at him and instructing him to call you.

minghao -

at times he tends to be a little reserved and quiet during interviews, and i think thatd be specially the case during a foreign interview. if the interviewer happened to be you, his celebrity crush of many years, he'd still keep silent, hoping quietly to himself that none of the members would bring up his crush on you to embarrass him. would try to keep his interest in you lowkey, even if it was hard to keep his eyes off of you now that you were finally in the same room as him. would be a little surprised when he noticed you making eyes at him off camera, and even during the interview. would be twice as surprised when you came up to him afterwards, boldly asking for his contact info the best you could through the language barrier. even as flustered as he was, he'd hand type in his instagram @ on your phone, feeling like he was on top of the world.

seungkwan -

despite being super outgoing and extroverted, would shut down the moment his manager informed him you would be conducting a celebrity interview for seventeen. he'd try to keep himself as small as possible, hoping you don't notice him among the 12 other members. would try so so hard to keep his eyes off you, knowing he'd turn red as a beet if you even made eye contact with him. he'd spent one too many nights already fantasizing about meeting you, his favorite singer and celebrity crush, refusing to ever actually meet you in order to avoid ever embarrassing himself in front of you. would be caught so off guard when you approached him after the interview, telling him you'd seen some of his covers and fell in love with his voice, asking if he'd be interested in ever doing something together. vernon would have to intervene after a full minute of shocked silence from seungkwan, taking your contact info for him and excusing his friend, earning a scandalized smack on his chest from him at his reasoning of 'sorry, he just really likes you.'

vernon -

he had never wanted to not be fluent in english more than in this moment. being one of the members who spoke fluent english, he knew he had some responsibility to take charge of western interviews and be the one to answer most questions during interviews, but the moment he heard you were the one who would be interviewing them on the red carpet of some awards show, he immediately wanted to take his ass back to south korea. even after mentally readying himself for a few days, nothing could've prepared him to see you in that outfit, so pretty and so close. if you showed any type of flirtatious behavior, vernon's mind would go blank, being unable to respond to your questions as his brain could not even process what you'd said after the word 'handsome' came out of your mouth. joshua would have to take over to salvage the situation. luckily for vernon, you'd found his reaction to be adorable, deciding to ask for his socials once the cameras were off.

chan -

the moment he heard you were interviewing him and the members, he would pray to god none of the guys would go out of their way to embarrass him in front of you, knowing he'd been crushing on you even since predebut. would be in absolute awe of you from the moment you walked in the room, heart going a mile a minute as the time for the interview approached. would internally curse the guys for making him sit closest to you, meaning you instinctually would direct most questions at him. would sometimes miss a question because he'd be too distracted staring at you with moony eyes. would have to be nudged by the guys to focus, causing you to giggle at him, probably realizing he might have a lil thing for you. he was lucky he was cute, because that would lead you to seek him out after the interview, with chan dragging vernon over to awkwardly third wheel as he translated your flirtatious comments to chan.

[sallowsarchives]

War of Hearts

Part I | Part II | Part III

Pairing: Arthur Morgan x Fem!Reader Summary: Nothing says "believable" like two people who can't stand each other pretending to be in love—or is this just the push you two need to realize there might be more to your relationship than either of you is willing to admit? Word Count: 7.9k  Warnings/Tags: no use of y/n, fake relationships, sorta enemies to lovers, alcohol consumption, angst, pining, original side character, sort of a not so happy ending, arthur thinking he’s not good enough. I also tried fitting the story with canon whenever I could. Not Proofread!! A/N: Hey everyone! Just wanted to mention that this is my first time writing and posting, so I'm bit nervous but really excited to finally share it! This piece was heavily inspired by and made as a result from a conversation I had with my Arthur cAI hehe Credits: dividers used for this fic are by @enchanthings & all pictures used are taken from pinterest and were slightly edited by me.

Read on AO3

"I can't believe I have to attend this ridiculous party pretending to be married to him, of all people."  

Your voice is edged with annoyance as you smooth down the fabric of your dress, trying to channel your irritation into the task at hand. "It's bad enough we have to work together, but this charade is beyond absurd."

Tilly chuckles. "Oh, come on. It's just one night. How bad can it be?"

You give her an unamused look. "We can hardly tolerate being around each other, and now Dutch expects us to pretend we're madly in love, all while dealing with a crowd of high-society snobs."

"It ain’t like y’all have spent much time together. Maybe going on this would do you both some good. Who knows, you might actually find some common ground," Abigail suggests as she takes the glove Jack was playing with, causing him to pout, before handing it over to you.

Sadie snorts. "The only common ground those two have is their mutual hatred. Let’s just hope neither of ‘em ends up killing the other tonight. Knowin’ those two, it'll be a miracle if they make it through the evening without a scratch."

Mary-Beth chuckles as she adjusts your updo. "Oh, don’t be so dramatic. They’re not going to kill each other—at least not tonight. Dutch will probably come up with some harebrained scheme to keep things under control." She flashes a playful grin as she puts the final touches on your hairstyle.

You chuckle before taking a moment to admire yourself in the mirror. 

The gown, a deep shade of burgundy satin, flows gracefully to the floor with an off-the-shoulder design and a low neckline, elegantly framed by a ruffled collar. The rich fabric drapes beautifully, enhancing your silhouette.

The black lace gloves, covering your hands and forearms, add a sophisticated touch with their delicate floral patterns. Your fingers are adorned with a few rings, and your dangling earrings catch the light with every movement.

You bought the dress earlier this morning in Saint Denis with the cash from your last robbery. The job had been straightforward: Hosea had scouted the place, found out the homeowners were away for vacation, and given your expertise at picking locks and sleight of hand, he brought you along. You managed to secure a tidy sum of cash and a few valuable heirlooms without any trouble.

Knowing the dress would be perfect for tonight’s high-society affair, you spent a good amount of your previous earnings on it. The gown fits as if it were made just for you, and you can't help but feel a surge of confidence as you admire your reflection.

Karen pipes up with a smirk. “Well, I’ll be! With you lookin’ like that, Arthur won’t be able to keep his eyes off you.”

She looks at you mischievously, “might even give him a nudge in the right direction. Maybe it’ll help you two finally work out all that tension between you.”

Her comment draws an abashed look from you followed by giggles from the other women.

After receiving some last words of encouragement and reassuring nods from the girls, you thank them for their help and make your way downstairs to join the men outside.

Stepping out, you're greeted by the warm, humid night air of the swamp. Dutch, Hosea, Arthur, and Bill were already gathered near the horse hitches, all dressed in their suits.

You make your way over, trying to muster every ounce of grace and composure you can. 

As you get closer, Arthur's gaze lands on you and you catch a fleeting look of surprise along with a hint of a softer look in his eyes before his expression is quickly masked with his usual frown.

His eyebrows furrow slightly as he takes in your refined appearance, the rough edges of his demeanor softened by an elusive flicker of something you can't quite place.

Dutch notices your entrance and offers a nod of approval. “Well, look at you, Miss,” he says with a wide smile, clearly pleased with how things are shaping up. “You look absolutely perfect for this evening.”

You smile and nod at the men before your gaze drifts to Arthur. The contrast between his usual rugged attire and his current appearance is stark, and you can't help but notice how well he pulls off the look. Despite his irritating nature, there's no denying he has a certain charm. You give him a cheeky smile and offer a sly compliment.

"Well, well, look what we have here, I never thought I'd see the day. Maybe you should ditch the jeans for a while."

Arthur gives you a flat look, irritation flickering in his eyes. “Oh, real funny, darlin’,” he drawls, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “Don’t you worry, I’ll be back to my ol’ self I know you’re so fond of before you know it.”

You roll your eyes at him and smirk, taking joy in having gotten under his skin. 

Dutch chuckles at the exchange, clapping Arthur on the back. “Now play nice, you two. We’ve got a job to do tonight, and looking the part is only half the battle.” 

His tone is light, but there’s a hint of seriousness as he continues, “let’s keep the bickering to a minimum and focus on what needs to be done. We don’t want any more distractions than we already have.” 

Next to Arthur, Bill chuckles and gives him a playful nudge. “Arthur, reckon you ain’t gonna give your dear wife a compliment?” he teases, the humor in his voice evident as he refers to the charade you both must uphold for the party.

He shifts uncomfortably and glares at Bill, his expression a mix of irritation and reluctance. 

Dutch leans in with a smirk, “come on, Arthur, show a bit of charm. It’s not every day you get to pretend to be in love.”

“Yeah, yeah, let’s get this over with before one of us runs outta patience.”

The clatter of wheels catches your ear as Lenny finally arrives driving a stagecoach. The vehicle comes to a smooth stop, and Lenny leans over with a broad grin, his eyes brightening as he sees you. He offers a warm compliment, his cheerful demeanor a welcome contrast to the evening’s tension.

You return his smile and thank him before Dutch and Hosea get into the stagecoach, followed by you and Arthur. Bill hops into the seat next to Lenny.

As you settle into your seat, the atmosphere in the coach becomes thick with anticipation. The weight of the evening's expectations hangs heavily between you and Arthur, both of you making an effort to avoid each other's gaze while mentally bracing yourselves for the night ahead as the stagecoach begins to roll forward.

The rhythmic clatter of the horse’s hooves against the large wooden bridge serves as a reminder of your close arrival in Saint Denis, the city’s lights blurring past as you mentally prepare for the evening’s masquerade.

Inside the stagecoach, the atmosphere had gradually lightened earlier on during the ride. The gang cracked jokes and shared stories as Dutch opened a bottle of champagne for everyone, the laughter providing a welcome distraction from the evening’s tension.

Everyone reminisced about their past escapades, with most admitting they had never been to a ball before. Hosea, however, regaled everyone with tales of his numerous experiences at such events—not for the socializing, but for the chance to lift a few purses from oblivious rich folks. His anecdotes were met with a mixture of awe and amusement, shifting the mood to one of camaraderie.

Soon, the coach slowed to a stop right in front of a mansion and the group peers out the window, taking in the grandeur of the estate. 

Dutch let out a low whistle. “Well, if that ain’t something. Remember, folks, we’re here to blend in. Keep your eyes sharp and your wits sharper.”

Hosea, always the calm voice of reason, looks between you and Arthur. “Now let’s keep this simple. We’re here to make a good impression, Bronte may already know of our reputation but we should keep the high society folks none the wiser. Let's keep our cool, play our parts, and try to score some valuable intel.”

You and Arthur exchange looks, eyes meeting one another with a sharp, challenging edge before he turns his gaze away. You take a steadying breath, silently hoping the night unfolds smoothly and without incident. 

Lenny steps down and opens the coach door which was followed by the men exiting one by one, with you last. 

As Arthur starts to walk ahead, Hosea nudges him and gestures toward you, earning an exasperated sigh from Arthur.

Reluctantly, Arthur falls into step beside you and extends his arm. Despite the lingering tension, you accept it, slipping your arm through his.

He glances at you, his expression of slight irritation. “This should be a real treat.” 

You raise an eyebrow, barely masking your annoyance. “It’s not like I’m thrilled about it either. But here we are.”

He gives you a smug look. “Just remember, we’re supposed to be playin’ nice. Don’t go makin’ it harder than it needs to be. I’d hate for you to accidentally blow our cover.”

“Oh, I’m sure you’ll manage to keep things under control. After all, you’re the expert at charm, aren’t you?”

“Well, if you’d quit making things so damn difficult, I might actually get a chance to show it. But I reckon you’re used to makin’ everything more complicated.”

You step closer, your voice low and biting. “And I suppose you’re used to being an insufferable brute. Maybe if you stopped acting like a complete pain in the ass, we’d both get through things a little easier.”

Arthur’s smile fades, his expression turning serious. “Now I’m just tryin’ to do my part tonight. If you could manage to do the same without stirrin’ up trouble, that’d be mighty appreciated.”

The two of you share a final, heated look, the air between you crackling with palpable tension, as you both brace for the evening’s inevitable strain.

Dutch, who had walked ahead to present the invitation to the guards, cast a sharp glance at you and Arthur, not having missed your whispered barbs, making you shift away from each other.

Turning back to the guards, they direct everyone to surrender their firearms with the men reluctantly handing over their pistols.

Once that was settled, an escort named Luca stepped forward to guide you inside.

The doors opened with a soft creak, revealing the splendor of the grand staircase beyond. As you made your way through the space, Luca engaged the group in light conversation, primarily highlighting Bronte’s reputation before you are all guided to the left through an archway.

“Hosea, Bill, you join the party. We’ll meet you out back after we pay our respects to Signor Bronte.” Dutch instructs before signaling you and Arthur to follow as Hosea and Bill part ways from you.

The three of you were led upstairs and directed to a door on the left that opens onto a balcony. 

The balcony was expansive, overlooking the lush garden below. A group of men stood gathered around the railing, laughing at a recently shared joke. The space featured a few armchairs and you noted the few guards stationed nearby, armed with rifles.

An accented voice cut through the laughter. “Ah, the angry cowboys, you’ve arrived… And you’ve washed!” 

From the way the man held himself, you could only assume that this was Angelo Bronte. 

Bronte made a remark, presumably in Italian, to the men beside him. They glanced at Arthur and Dutch before laughing slyly, and you couldn’t shake the suspicion that his comment was a crude jibe about the cowboys.

You had to struggle to maintain a friendly expression when Bronte's gaze landed on you.

The smirk on his face grew as his eyes swept over you, lingering with an unsettling leer. “And who might this be?” he drawled, his voice thick with barely concealed appraisal. “Aren’t you quite the sight. I didn’t realize these men kept such delightful company as you. It seems they have more refined tastes than I imagined.”

His gaze was invasive, making you feel as though he was sizing you up with an unnerving familiarity. The overt sexual undertone in his words was palpable, and it took every ounce of your composure to not react. The air around him felt thick with condescension and unwanted attention, making it clear that this meeting was going to be far more uncomfortable than you had anticipated.

“A pleasure to meet you, Mister Bronte,” you replied evenly. “Thank you for the invitation. I’m here simply to accompany my husband.” You cast a steady glance at Arthur as you spoke.

Bronte’s eyes flicker to Arthur, a look of surprise momentarily crossing his face before he returns his attention to you. He takes your hand, pressing it to his lips and holding it just a moment too long, his gaze never waver. “Ah, I see,” he says, his tone smooth and almost mocking. “Pleased to meet your acquaintance. I must say, it’s quite surprising to see such a charming companion alongside your husband. A fortunate man, indeed.”

Arthur’s expression hardens momentarily before he quickly masks it, stepping forward. “Seems I’m full of surprises tonight,” he says, his tone unexpectedly calm. “Just as I’m sure this evening will be.” He holds a steady, unwavering gaze at Bronte.

Bronte’s lips curl into a knowing smile as he studies Arthur’s unyielding gaze. “Ah, such a spirited response,” he says with a playful glint in his eye. “I do appreciate a bit of unpredictability. It seems we’re in for an interesting evening indeed.” He gestured grandly towards the gathering, his tone dripping with feigned charm.

Arthur nods curtly before stepping back, positioning himself in a way that subtly yet clearly marks him as your protector, despite the dynamic between you. Bronte’s gaze lingers on Arthur for a moment longer, his amusement giving way to a more calculating expression.

Dutch stepped in, resuming his conversation with Bronte in an effort to ease the tension while you and Arthur stood off to the side. 

The men were offered cigars, and Arthur quickly placed one in his mouth. Before he was even offered a cutter, he bit down and tore the end off with his teeth, spitting the excess over the balcony in a manner that left your jaw hanging open in disbelief.

He smirks at you, clearly enjoying the reaction he’s provoked. You roll your eyes at his display, a mix of irritation and slight amusement etched across your face.

“You know,” you whisper to him with a hint of exasperation, “you could at least pretend to have some manners.”

Arthur’s smirk widened into a cocky grin. “Right, forgot we’re here to put on a show,” he shot back, his voice dripping with playful insolence, making you roll your eyes.

When the attendant extended a match towards Dutch but pulled back before reaching Arthur, the gunslinger seized the attendant’s arm and held it in place, lowering his cigar to the flame. The boldness of his actions flustered you, leaving you a mix of irritation and an unexpected flurry of emotions that left you feeling perplexed.

Arthur dismissed the attendant with a nonchalant nod, his eyes fixed on you the entire time. The attendant, evidently accustomed to such brusque behavior, retreated without protest.

You found yourself both exasperated and oddly captivated by the ease with which Arthur commanded the attention. His effortless defiance was infuriating, yet there was something compelling about his blatant refusal to conform to expectations, making it hard to ignore the allure behind his brazen demeanor. 

You quickly push those thoughts aside, refocusing on the conversation between Dutch and Bronte, doing your best to ignore the flush in your cheeks and the rapid beating of your heart.

After several exchanges between Dutch and Bronte, including another jibe from Bronte about cowboy lifestyle, which had elicited subtle pointed looks from you and the men you were with. 

“Those sure were the days,” Dutch simpered, his gaze on Bronte now more intense and focused. “Good day, gentlemen.”

Just as you were about to leave, Bronte turned to you, offering a slight bow.  “And you, Miss,” he said with a smirk, “do return if you the crowd down there becomes too dull.” His gaze shifted to Arthur. “‘Course you could bring your husband along, but I wouldn’t mind if you came alone.”

He held his gaze on you, lingering with a glint of amusement. You gave him a polite nod despite the discomfort you felt and turned to follow Dutch and Arthur. Even as you walked away, you could feel Bronte’s eyes on your back. 

The encounter left you with a sharp sense of irritation and a strong resolve to avoid any further interactions with him.

You glanced at Arthur, who had been waiting with Dutch by the door. Though his face showed no sign of emotion, you couldn’t miss the subtle clench of his jaw. You felt his hand gently place on your lower back, guiding you away.

The unexpected touch had caught you off guard, making you stiffen slightly as you struggled to process the unfamiliar gesture. It felt protective and oddly comforting, coming from someone who had been nothing but a source of irritation and friction.

You chanced another glance at Arthur, but his face remained expressionless. His hand lingered on your back for a moment before he withdrew it as quickly as he had placed it, his demeanor swiftly reverting to its usual hardness. 

The fleeting moment of unexpected closeness left you feeling unsettled, a mix of confusion and reluctant curiosity stirring within you.

You quickly reminded yourself that you were both still maintaining a façade, and this brief intimacy was likely just another part of the act. You focused on the task at hand, trying to push away the feelings and maintain the necessary distance between you.

Luca led the three of you back downstairs to rejoin the party, bidding you farewell before you head off with Dutch to meet Bill and Hosea outside.

“Gentlemen… and lady, let’s go ingratiate ourselves,” Dutch began before outlining the plan and giving everyone the freedom to mingle. “And steal nothing… unless it’s information,” Dutch added with a final nod before everyone dispersed.

With that, you follow closely behind Arthur as you both make your way down into the crowd, the murmur of conversations and clinking glasses filling the air. The curious glances of other partygoers followed you both, their eyes lingering with a mix of intrigue and scrutiny. 

He noticed a few men’s eyes drifting from him to you, their stares lingering with evident interest.

Arthur made a conscious effort to ignore the unwanted attention, though his irritation was palpable. 

Pushing down an unfamiliar urge stirring within him, Arthur quickly reminded himself to keep up with the act you two must play tonight.

He shifted to stand beside you, offering his arm with a practiced ease, his expression carefully neutral as he guided you through the crowd.

The absurdity of it all made him grumble under his breath about the ridiculous situation. With a sigh, he steered you toward a less crowded corner of the garden, seeking a quieter spot away from the throng of guests.

As you settled into a less conspicuous spot, you could feel the weight of Arthur’s tension. “I suppose this is where we’re supposed to make our mark,” you said, trying to break the silence. 

You watched as Arthur scanned the crowd, his eyes darting from one group to another, searching for anything useful.

His gaze met yours for a brief moment before he spoke, “Keep your eyes open for now,” he said quietly, his voice low and focused. “I’ll try to track down the mayor and speak with him. See if you can strike up a conversation with some of these folks and gather any useful information about where they’re stashin’ all their riches.”

"Alright, I’ll work the room while you schmooze with the mayor. Just don’t take too long—this place is already starting to wear me thin after that meeting with Bronte. I'm not keen on diving into more talk about the latest fashions and whatnot."

Arthur’s lips twitched in what might have been a small smirk. He inclined his head slightly before turning away and heading off.

You spent the better part of an hour making conversation with various guests, each interaction aimed at uncovering valuable intel on potential robbery targets. 

Maneuvering through the crowd, you engaged in light, seemingly innocuous chit-chat while discreetly probing for any mentions of high-value items or vulnerable security.

Despite your best efforts, luck seemed to evade you. Although, you did manage to uncover information about a stagecoach arriving next month, supposedly laden with valuable jewels. That was at least something.

You took a small sip from the glass of champagne you've snatched earlier in the evening, surveying the crowd. The sound of giggles and lively chatter drew your gaze, and you looked over to see Arthur deep in conversation with a group of women. You couldn't help but feel a wry amusement at the sight.

One of the women, with a clearly flirtatious gesture, placed her hand on Arthur’s arm and leaned in, her laughter echoing. The simple touch and her proximity sparked an uncomfortable feeling within you. 

You observed how Arthur subtly stepped back, skillfully deflecting her advances. Despite his efforts, the woman seemed oblivious to the fact that her attentions were being rebuffed. It was a masterful display of charm and diplomacy, leaving you with a mix of admiration and lingering discomfort. You took another sip of your drink, trying to shake off the unexpected unease.

At that moment, Arthur glanced up and locked eyes with you. He gave you a wink, likely meant to provoke or tease, but instead, his gesture caused a reaction you hadn't anticipated. Your heart skipped a beat, and a sudden rush of warmth flooded your cheeks. The playful glint in his eyes seemed to pierce through the crowd, stirring something deep inside you.

Muttering a curse under your breath, you narrowed your eyes at him and quickly turned away, trying to conceal the flush that had crept up on you.

You dashed to the nearest table, grabbing a bottle of champagne and quickly pouring yourself another glass. You downed it in one swift motion, hoping the crisp bubbles would offer a fleeting distraction from the swirl of emotions inside you.

As you pour yourself another glass, you hear someone speak up beside you, her voice tinged with curiosity. 

"Well, I must say, I’ve seen many ways to cope with a dull party, but this might be the most... efficient.”

You glanced at the voice and saw a woman smirking at you. She appeared slightly older than you and was dressed in a lavish blue gown that sparkled with every movement, her necklace glinting from the lamps. Her expression conveyed amusement. 

Feeling embarrassed to have been caught in your moment of inner turmoil, you attempted to regain your composure and replied with a hint of forced levity. “It’s quite the dull affair, isn’t it?”

The woman laughed softly, her eyes twinkling with mischief. “Thank goodness, someone who gets it.”

“You seem to be surviving it better than most. I imagine you’ve been through a few parties like these before?”

She nodded, her gaze shifting to a distant corner of the room where a group of guests were deeply engrossed in animated conversation. “Too many, I’m afraid. After a while, it all becomes a blur of extravagant gowns and polite small talk. One learns to navigate these events with a certain... detachment.”

You chuckled, raising an eyebrow. “Sounds like you’ve mastered the art of it. I could use a guide through this maze of high society myself. Any tips on surviving the evening without losing one’s sanity—or dignity?”

She grinned, leaning in conspiratorially. “Well, first off, always have a backup plan for when the conversation turns to the latest trends in hat feathers or the merits of various imported cheeses. For instance, I’ve found that nodding vigorously while muttering phrases like ‘absolutely fascinating’ works wonders.

You laughed, shaking your head. “I’ll keep that in mind. Though I suspect I might still need a crash course in how to look like I’m genuinely interested in ‘the most enchanting new fabric designs’.”

She chuckled. “Well, when in doubt, fake it till you make it. Nothing says ‘I’m absolutely fine’ like a perfectly practiced smile and a glass of champagne held just so.”

You chuckle and raise your glass at her before taking a sip. A brief silence follows as you both sip from your glasses. The woman then speaks up, her tone warm and friendly, “I’m Eloise, by the way. It’s rare to find someone who sees through the façade of these high-society gatherings.”

You smile, offering her your name. “It seems we’re both on the same wavelength when it comes to these affairs.”

“So what brought you here tonight?”

“Oh, um… I’m just here to accompany my husband, he’s the one with the business connections, so I’m playing the dutiful spouse for the evening.”

Eloise raises an eyebrow, a knowing smile tugging at her lips. “Ah, the classic role of the ‘plus one.’ Now which one of these overdressed peacocks is your husband?” 

She sweeps her gaze across the crowd with exaggerated curiosity. “Is he the one with the ridiculous bow tie or the chap with the hat that looks like it’s been borrowed from a magic act?”

You raise your brows in amusement as you glance at the men she’s mentioned, finding the whole scene of tonight’s event even more absurd. Your gaze sweeps over the crowd until you spot Arthur. 

“Actually, that would be him right there.”

Eloise’s eyes follow your pointing finger and widen in genuine surprise. 

“Well, I’ll be!” she exclaims, clearly taken aback. “I must say, he’s certainly not what I was expecting. Doesn't look like he belongs here, in a good way of course. He’s quite the rugged type—like one of those big, tough cowboys you’d see in a wild frontier town. You know the sort: strong, stocky, with a weathered charm that comes from living hard and facing rough challenges.”

The irony of her words makes you laugh. “That’s one way to put it.”

“I must say, you two make quite a handsome pair.” 

You flush at her words, a mix of embarrassment and awkwardness coloring your cheeks. Instead, you offer a polite smile and nod, playing along with the pretense. “Thank you,” you say in a steady voice, unsure of what else to say.

Arthur, briefly looking away from another person he was speaking to, catches your eye for the second time tonight. There’s a fleeting moment of connection—his gaze is intense, and the faintest smile plays at his lips���before he turns back to his conversation partner.

“I must admit,” she says, her tone light and teasing, “there’s more than just a bit of magic in the air between you two. It’s not every day you see such a striking balance. I do believe there’s a certain... chemistry here that’s hard to ignore. How delightful!”

You raise an eyebrow, giving her a confused smile. “What do you mean?”

Eloise’s eyes twinkle with a knowing glint as she glances over at Arthur. “Oh, it’s really quite charming, the way he looks at you. There’s just something in his gaze as if he’s captivated by you in a way that could be missed. It’s rare to see someone look at their partner with such intensity and warmth these days.”

For a moment, you almost correct her, eager to clarify that you and Arthur aren’t actually together. But then you remember the need to maintain the ruse. You glance awkwardly at Arthur, trying to downplay the connection Eloise is suggesting.

“Oh, I don’t know about that,” you say clearly flustered, trying to sound casual but failing to hide your unease. “I mean, Arthur and I aren’t exactly... well, he’s just got this intense look, which I’m sure it’s nothing more than... you know, his way of being attentive. It’s just a bit of his nature.”

Her smile softens, eyes warm and genuine. “Oh, it’s clear to see if you look hard enough. Even in a crowded room, he seems to be drawn to you. It’s quite endearing.”

The sound of cracks echoed before you could think of a response, and the woman beside you lit up with genuine excitement.

“Finally, something exciting! It's been lovely chatting with you. I do hope we cross paths again. Now, if you’ll excuse me.” Eloise sends you a warm smile before hurrying off.

You send her a genuine smile before you turn your gaze upward to the sky, where faint glimmers of fireworks begin to light up the night. The display added a splash of color to the darkened sky, creating a stark contrast to the opulence of the garden below. 

As you watched the vibrant bursts, your thoughts drifted back to the conversation you had with Eloise, trying to process her comments. Her words lingered in your mind, stirring a mix of curiosity and confusion. 

The idea that whatever is between you and Arthur might actually convey something deeper, something affectionate, felt almost surreal given the dynamics between you two and your perspective on your relationship with him.

Perhaps Abigail was right; the more you spent time with Arthur, the more you learned about him and saw him in a new light. What had once seemed like mere pretense or forced partnership now hinted at a connection that transcended your initial expectations. 

The way he moved, the way he spoke, the moments of unguarded sincerity—it all started to paint a different picture. The possibility that these moments could be more than just part of the act began to take root, stirring a blend of curiosity and apprehension within you.

You quickly down your drink before setting the empty glass on the table.

Suddenly, a rough hand wrapping around your wrist jolts you out of your thoughts and you turn to see Arthur who all but tugged you along behind him. 

You let out a scowl. “Hey! What the-”

Arthur glanced over his shoulder, a mix of amusement and determination on his face. “Come on, we just caught wind that the Mayor’s gotten somethin’ from Cornwall. Dutch reckons we oughta figure out what it is, make sure we ain’t missin’ nothin’ crucial.”

“And you need me because?” You asked with slight irritation as he continued to pull you along.

Arthur's eyes narrowed slightly, his voice taking on a low, firm tone. “I need you to keep watch, and your lock-pickin’ skills could come in handy… ‘sides, you’re my wife don’t forget.” He added with a teasing smirk. 

“Can’t have you wanderin’ off by yourself lookin’ like I’ve neglected you. That wouldn’t reflect too well on me now, would it?”

You shot him a glare, yanking your wrist free from his grip. “Could’ve just asked me”

Arthur’s lips twitched with a hint of a smirk. “You looked so wrapped up in the fireworks, darlin’, I didn’t want to interrupt you.”

You bit back a retort, your frustration mingling with a begrudging understanding of his point.  “Don’t call me that,” you said, a hint of irritation in your voice at the use of the nickname. 

Arthur raised an eyebrow, his smirk widening slightly. “Alright, sweetheart. Try to keep up now.”

Trailing closely behind Arthur as you followed the servant, you effortlessly weaved through the spectators, who were too engrossed in watching the fireworks to notice you. 

The servant circled around to the side of the house and ascended a small set of steps leading out of the garden. He paused briefly to engage in a conversation with someone before slipping inside through a side door.

The both of you followed cautiously, making sure to stay out of sight. Inside, you overheard the man berating a maid before he made his way up the stairs, retracing your steps to the upper levels where you had previously been.

Just before reaching the landing, Arthur raises his hand, halting you in your tracks. He peers over the edge of the wall, watching as the servant enters the locked room, heads to a desk, and inserts a key into a drawer to place the letter inside. The servant then disappears further into the room, the sound of a door closing signaling that it is time for you and Arthur to make your move.

Arthur moves first, effortlessly slipping inside through the wide-open door left by the servant. You quickly scan the area to ensure it's clear before following him.

He makes his way over to the desk and tugs at the drawer, only to find it locked. Grabbing a letter opener from the table, he attempts to pry it open. You watch with amusement as he grunts in frustration, struggling to get it to budge.

“Honestly, watching you fumble with that is almost painful,” you remarked, making Arthur roll his eyes and throw up his hands in a gesture that clearly invited you to take over. With a sigh, you stepped in, gently nudging him aside before kneeling down to get eye-level with the lock.

Pulling a pin from your updo, your hair falls loosely over your back, leaving your style in a half-up, half-down look. You insert the pin into the lock, and after a few moments of fumbling, a triumphant smile spreads across your face at the satisfying click of the lock opening.

You stand back up and look over at Arthur, giving him a smug smile when you catch him staring. You raise an eyebrow, and he quickly clears his throat, shifting his gaze away as if caught in the act of something he wasn’t supposed to be doing.

"I, uh, never seen you with your hair down before," he comments before he can think twice, his voice trailing off as he leans over the drawer, a hint of color creeping into his cheeks. 

"Nice work," he adds, his eyes momentarily meeting yours before darting away.

You raise an eyebrow at his flustered demeanor, the corner of your mouth twitching in amusement, “I’m glad you approve.” 

You watch as he sifts through the drawer's contents until his hands close around a book with a piece of paper inside. He briefly reads the paper, nods, and then tears it in half, slipping the pieces into his suit pocket.

“You got it?” 

“Yeah, let’s get outta here,” he replies, glancing around making sure no one is watching before heading out the door with you following closely behind

Just as you were about to move down the stairs, the creaking sound of someone coming up halted both of your tracks. Without warning, Arthur grabbed you, pushing you gently but firmly against the wall beside the staircase, his body pressing close to yours. His arms caged around the sides of your head, creating a tight, protective barrier.

The sudden proximity left you acutely aware of his body against yours, his chest nearly brushing yours as his arms trapped you in place.

His gaze locked onto yours with an intensity that made your pulse race even faster. His brow furrowed slightly as if he were struggling to control a rush of emotions.

The closeness had clearly caught both of you off guard, the charged atmosphere between you almost palpable. His breath came in short, controlled bursts, and you could see the way his jaw tightened as he struggled to maintain his composure.

As he held you there, his expression softened just a fraction, revealing a flicker of vulnerability beneath his usually guarded demeanor. His voice, though still firm, carried a hint of concern as he leaned close to whisper, "Just stay still and quiet.”

The proximity of his breath against your ear made the moment feel even more intimate, amplifying the unexpected connection between you. The closeness, once marked by animosity, now seemed charged with a different kind of tension—one that was both electrifying and confusing.

As you stood there, the boundaries between duty and emotion blurred, and the shared space between you felt charged with unspoken understanding and vulnerability.

His eyes, usually hard with resolve or irritation, softened as they locked with yours. There was a softness in his gaze, a flicker of something raw and unguarded.

The emotion he held in his eyes made you reconsider the hostility that had defined your interactions. In that moment, the anger and resentment seemed to fade, replaced by a deeper, more complex understanding of the man standing so close to you.

The sound of footsteps drawing nearer to the top of the stairs heightened the urgency of the moment and Arthur’s gaze shifted to you once more.

One of his arms lowered from the wall behind you, and he placed his hand softly at the back of your neck. His touch lingered without applying too much pressure. You felt a shiver at the contact of his hand on your neck, the warmth of his touch sending an unexpected jolt of emotion through you, bringing a surge of feelings you had been trying to suppress all night.

The gentle warmth of his hand contrasted sharply with the intensity of his gaze, creating a palpable connection that seemed to heighten the gravity of your precarious situation.

Your heart pounded as you met his intense gaze, which held a rare blend of sincerity and vulnerability that was almost disarming.

“You trust me?” he asked, his voice barely above a whisper but filled with a sincerity that cut through the tension of the moment.

You hesitated, the weight of his question hanging between you. The proximity of his body and the depth of his gaze left you momentarily breathless. “Why should I?” you whispered back, your voice betraying a mix of defiance and vulnerability.

Arthur’s eyes never left yours as he leaned in closer. “Because right now, it’s the only way we’re getting out of this,” he replied, his tone resolute but gentle.

In that charged silence, the dynamics of your relationship were shifting. You felt the usual barriers between you—formed by past conflicts and mutual distrust—began to dissolve, replaced by an unspoken understanding that was both electrifying and comforting. The anger and rivalry giving way to a fragile trust and an unexpected tenderness. 

With the footsteps slowly growing nearer, you saw a flicker of sincerity in his eyes that made you question your own doubts. You nodded slightly, trying to steady your breath. “Alright,” you whispered.

Arthur's lips curved into a faint smile, a mixture of relief and determination. “You gotta say it, sweetheart,” he urged softly.

Your mouth curled into a slight smirk as you looked up at him, your heart racing with a blend of anxiety and anticipation. “I trust you,” you said, the words feeling like a pact forged in the heat of the moment.

In a quick, decisive motion, he leans in and presses a firm, purposeful kiss to your lips, filled with urgency. The initial touch is electrifying, but as the kiss deepens, it becomes a release of suppressed feelings, a flood of emotions long held in check.

The kiss is fervent and consuming, each moment stretching out as if to make up for lost time. His lips are warm and insistent against yours, and there’s a raw, desperate quality to the way he kisses you. It feels as though every emotion he’s been holding back is being poured into this single, intense connection.

Your own lips respond with equal fervor, the kiss becoming a mutual surrender to the feelings that have been building between you. The world around you fades into the background, the only reality being the overwhelming sensation of his kiss. 

Arthur’s hand that had been pressed firmly against the wall, now frame your face with a gentleness that contrasts with the intensity of the kiss. His grip is both tender and possessive, as if he’s anchoring you to him, unwilling to let go.

The sound of someone clearing their throat suddenly jolts you back to reality. 

A servant, caught off guard by the intimate display before him, stood at the top of the stairs. His eyes widened in surprise, clearly unprepared for the passionate exchange unfolding before him.

You and Arthur break the kiss, though the intensity of the moment lingers in the charged air between you. With a quick, shared glance, you and Arthur both adjust your demeanor, the brief intimacy giving way to the reality of the mission.

The man, realizing he has intruded on a private and critical moment, clears his throat, clearly flustered at having walked in on the intimate scene before him, face flushing with embarrassment. "I-I’m sorry to interrupt, but this area is restricted to guests unless otherwise accompanied,” he stammers.

Arthur’s eyes narrow slightly, but his expression quickly returns to a more controlled demeanor. He gives the servant a nod of acknowledgment. “Sorry ‘bout that, partner. Seems my wife and I took a wrong turn and found ourselves in the wrong spot. We were just about to head on out.”

You, still caught in the afterglow of the kiss, straighten yourself and try to regain your composure. The abrupt interruption leaves you with a swirl of mixed emotions—embarrassment, irritation, and a lingering sense of affection. You cast a quick glance at Arthur, who responds with a subtle nod, signaling that it's time to move on.

Still visibly flustered, the servant offers a hurried apology, stepping aside with a rigid posture and a face flushed a deep shade of red. He tries to give you both space as you and Arthur hurry down the stairs, the charged atmosphere from the kiss still lingering between you. The abrupt return to reality sharpens your sense of urgency.

Arthur takes a deep breath, stepping back as his gaze meets yours for a moment longer. He opens his mouth to say something but hesitates before speaking again. “We should get a move on and find Dutch and the rest ‘em.”

You noticed his hesitation but decided to brush it off, nodding in agreement. “Sure, let’s see what’s next. The sooner we get this done, the better.”

You find Dutch, Hosea, and Bill on the first-floor balcony. 

“Ah, there you are!” Dutch exclaims, a smile on his face. He then turns to Arthur. “Find anything?”

Arthur gives a nod and taps his chest where he’s tucked the letter. “I think so.”

“Great. I think we’re done here.”

The four of you move to follow Dutch, briefly exchanging information with Hosea and Bill. Hosea mentions a potential robbery job targeting a big city bank, outlining the possible opportunities involved. You share what you’ve gathered earlier about a stagecoach expected to pass through Lemoyne in the next few weeks and the valuable jewels and cash it carries.

Dutch, Hosea, and Bill push past the front entrance, walking ahead. Just before you can follow, Arthur calls your name and gently grabs your arm, pulling you aside.

In the quiet corridor, away from the others, you face him. His eyes are a mixture of resolve and something else you can’t quite place. “Listen, I, uh…,” he trails off, his voice low, seeming to wrestle with his words for a moment before finally meeting your gaze. 

Your heart races, expecting him to address what happened between you earlier and the emotions that followed. 

Instead, Arthur’s tone is hesitant and detached. “‘Bout what happened earlier… I don’t want you thinkin’ it meant more than it did. We can’t afford to get all wrapped up in nothin’ personal.”

His dismissal hits you like a cold wave.

You had hoped for some acknowledgment of the shared moment, perhaps a sign that it meant something to him. Instead, his words feel like a sharp rebuff, making you question everything you thought you understood about what happened tonight.

“What are you talking about?” you demand, trying to mask the hurt in your voice. Your frustration and anger boil over. 

Arthur’s gaze falters for a moment before he regains his composure. He runs a hand over his face, clearly struggling to find the right words. “I just don’t think—” he begins, but his voice trails off as he lets out a frustrated sigh. 

He steps back, clearly distancing himself. “Look–I can’t offer you anything more than what we have. Let’s just focus on ending this job and not let personal feelings complicate things.”

You scoff, feeling the sting of his words. Personal feelings? 

“Right, so all that back there was just for show, was it? Just keeping up appearances?”

Arthur’s expression falters, and he hesitates. He opens his mouth to respond but closes it again, his frustration evident as he struggles to find the right thing to say. 

He turns to you, his expression now seeming emotionless and cold. “I didn’t mean to make it seem like nothin’ mattered. It’s just… I’m not tryin’ to make things too complicated. It’s best to keep things straightforward right now.”

The words and his tone cuts through you like a knife, the brief connection you shared now feels like a cruel tease, an illusion of intimacy shattered by the harsh reality.

His coldness is a stark contrast to the warmth you felt moments before, leaving you grappling with a mix of hurt and frustration. 

What started as mutual disdain had evolved into something more complex, yet now it feels like it's spiraling back into that familiar animosity.

You’d hoped that beneath the hostility and barbed comments, the genuine connection hinted at earlier tonight might bridge the gap between your conflicting dynamic. But now, it feels as if his rejection is pulling you back to square one—a place locked in an endless cycle of arguments and misunderstandings.

The idea that the warmth of those moments might have been nothing more than a strategic move or a fleeting distraction makes you question if there was ever truly a chance for something different between you two.

God, how naive you were to think there could be a sliver of something more between you and Arthur.

You take a deep breath, reminding yourself to focus on the task ahead. You push aside the personal turmoil, resolving to keep your interactions with Arthur as they were before—distant and guarded. 

With a blank expression masking the tumultuous emotions roiling beneath, you reply, “Fine. Let’s just get this night over with and move on. I’ll keep any ‘personal feelings’ out of the way if that makes it better for you.”

You turn away, forcing yourself not to say anything further that might reveal your feelings. As you do, you didn't miss the brief flash of hurt and sadness in Arthur’s expression before he quickly masks it with his usual stoic demeanor.

Finally rejoining the others, you enter the stagecoach and take your seat from before. Arthur takes his place beside you, the space between you charged with unspoken words and lingering hurt. 

The rift between the two of you feels even more pronounced, a painful reminder of what might have been overshadowed by the harsh reality of your circumstances.

Hosea and Dutch, seated across from you, seem to be blissfully unaware of the personal turmoil that has unfolded between you and Arthur, their conversation flowing naturally as they discuss the next steps of the gang’s plans.

The stagecoach rolls forward, and you turn to look out the window, drowning yourself in the passing scenery. The kiss and its aftermath now feel like an unspoken wound, deepening the complexity of your already fraught relationship and leaving you to grapple with the emotional fallout alone.

A/N: Okay so that ending was definitely not a happy one. After exploring where the story might go and experimenting more with the writing, I've decided that I mighttttt just make a Part 2, which might or might not include some smut hehe... So please stay tuned!

Thanks again for reading!

Read Part Two Here

[dontbesoweirdkira]

Kira’s MK favs with a clingy S/O

A/N: Basically how the men would react to having a S/O who is completely fascinated by them and is kinda anxiously clingy. Is this too ooc and niche? Who cares…this is literally me.

Characters: Mk11 Kung Lao, MK11 Raiden, MK1 Johnny Cage

Warnings: none ur safe…for now hehe

Requests: always open 24/7

Masterlist

Kung Lao MK11

I can’t imagine him ever really minding you wanting to be around him 24/7. I mean like who wouldn’t want to be?? Lol. But I seriously feel like he actually enjoys being needed, especially by you.

He loves it most when you waddle behind him everywhere he goes and will hold his hand out behind him for you. The other way around is super cute too. You always get super excited going to the different markets and shops and end up pulling him around everywhere.

Will automatically pull you into his lap and cuddle you when you go to sit down somewhere. He knows that you’ll automatically ask after a few minutes of sitting next to him anyways.

You can’t tell me that kung lao doesn’t have the perfect back for piggybacking. Like you are just starfishing on his back all day because you don’t want to let go of the warm fuzzy feeling of his body. He’s soooo warm and cosy all of the time. It’s extremely soothing.

It’s quite sweet to have someone who is so enthralled by everything he does. From sitting on the sink counter and watching him while he gets ready for the day to cheering him on as he trains. There’s never a moment that you ever seem to be bored and uninterested with him and that’s something he’s been craving for yearrrsss, to be appreciated.

Gladly will answer each and every question you have about his hat, culture, life, fighting style…ect.

Speaking of his hat, I feel like Kung Lao would design a similar version of his…one that is safe of course for you to wear when you miss him. Or if you are just fascinated by it.

If you’re super anxious or nervous about him leaving to go handle things, don’t worry as he’s amazing at reassurance and building you confidence that he will be back soon. He will always make time to send you handwritten letters or small gifts when he’s away for long extended periods.

If you keep a little journal about him and all the little facts he tells you, he will be so honored. I can imagine him finding it and writing little cute notes in it or answering any questions you may have written down.

He has gotten you a cute little king Lao bear fully decked out in a mini version of his gear…bonus points if he put a little sound bite in there too for you so you can always hear his voice.

I like to think that kung lao enjoys braiding/maintaining your hair as an intimate time for you. Especially if you’re anxious about him being gone all day. He’ll massage your scalp as well and when he’s finished you’re already asleep so he takes you to bed.

“Hmm..goodnight my sweet lotus.”~

Johnny Cage MK1

Oh he’s used to fans and groupies, your little fascination isn’t weird compared to what he’s dealt with. Also he’s just as much of a fan of himself as you are lolllll.

It’s honestly so cute how much of a fan you are of him, his other partners were annoyed with the whole actor thing after a month. He likes being able to talk about his movies and career adventures over and over again. Johnny loves to tell the same stories a thousand times and you’re always just as eager and excited to hear them like it’s your first.

Can’t help but to spill all his upcoming movie details whenever you ask him about it.

He sees you as an adorable small puppy and can’t help but to be curious about everything. He has gotten special books and photo albums made just for you that are a compilation of his entire career so far and life.

Anytime he gets a new headshot taken, he gets a second copy for you to add to your collection. Speaking of your collection, it’s so freaking big. Like pretty much everything that has ever been produced with his name on it, you own. His dearest career possessions are also yours to take care of, except for his awards. Sorry babe, no one is allowed to touch them outside of him.

His favorite thing is when you hold onto his arm like he’s going to fly away. Haha he promises he isn’t going anywhere.

He’s just as outwardly and intensely affectionate as you are so you having at least one hand on him at all times isn’t a biggie because if you aren’t touching him…he’s certainly touching you.

He allows you to wash his hair for him while he’s showering so you have something to do instead of waiting outside for him.

You have complete freedom to choose any of his clothes from his closets to wear. They all already smell just like him. When his maid does his laundry, she is instructed to spray everything with his cologne.

Will never deny taking a photo with you or posing with random objects and backgrounds that you have interest in for your album.

Lowkey I believe he’ll stay on FaceTime all day with you and keep his phone hidden in his pocket while filming just so you won’t be lonely.

He definitely will take you on set from time to time and steal props you want. Doesn’t matter anyways they all work for him and can make another one in an instant.

He’s definitely lost you at a big premier party and had some rando return you back to him with your eyes all watery.

“Is this yours, Johnny?”

Raiden MK11

Is kind of confused why you need to be near him 24/7… like don’t you want to go do other things instead of watching him work?

You definitely cried before and asked him if he still loved you because he seemed to be bothered by your constant presence.

He’s not he’s just so out of the loop with human things but he eventually stops questioning it after you explain it to him and he sees how sad you are over it.

I’m not sure if he’d be into holding your hand all day or you clinging to his arm, I think he’ll settle for you holding onto his garments instead. They’re already super loose and baggy so it’s not really disturbing him. Plus it’s easier for him to get used to than just diving right in.

I don’t think Raiden would mind the questions you ask him as long as it’s not while he’s busy. He’ll probably question why you’re so interested in him and these things but ultimately he’ll answer them .

Will also bring you scrolls about different questions you have and go through them with you.

You following closely behind him doesn’t really phase him too much, obviously there are times you can’t go into a certain room with him because of private matters but you’re allowed to wait outside of the door. He likes to know where you are at all times just in case he needs to protect you and you always being nearby soothes him.

He doesn’t have much memorabilia to give to you but I can imagine Raiden picking flowers or pretty rocks for you while he’s outside. He knows it brings you much joy to receive things from him, especially things you can fiddle with while you’re anxious.

Is very serious about the use of his powers but he’ll use his electricity more often for you to see. Sometimes even when he’s gone he’ll even cause lightning in the sky to let you know he’s thinking about you in hopes it’ll give you some comfort.

Speaking of electricity, he most enjoys your questions about it. He knows everything there is to know about storms and his power/where it comes from.

Doesn’t really understand the purpose of cuddling or really how to do it but I think he’d let you sit in his lap while he’s working on something. You can put your head in the crook of his neck and rest. He quite likes feeling the warmth of your breaths on his neck. Sometimes he’ll even explain to you what he’s doing and how everything works.

He doesn’t often sleep and knows you refuse to go to bed without him so he’ll pull up a chair next to you and watch you until you are in deep slumber. This is the time he’ll allow you to hold his hand. It’s cute seeing you like this.

I think people slightly tease him about your clinginess and childish like behavior but he doesn’t seem to care.

“Y/N enjoys being around me because I make her feel protected…is that a fault?”

[sysig]

Promises promises (Patreon)

[lexirosewrites]

This is for Slick Sunday!!!

So. I was watching this voice over of some random Tumblr post about how Vampires are to carpenters what furries are for artists(allegedly), bc they can make the ideal coffin for each individual and things like that, and like??? I got inspired. So this is what I have:

Totally established ABO situation, where Steve is an unusual Omega, simply for the fact that after his family disowned him he became a carpenter and if being a jock had given him some muscles, being a carpenter made him ripped.

But no one wants an Omega like that, no matter how sweet he is whether in scent or personality, it also doesn't help that Steve has a shit taste in Alphas.

Anyways, enter Eddie, a Vampire (whether he has a designation and/or what it is up in the air (although I prefer him as an Alpha)) who's looking for a new coffin for his Uncle Wayne, an incredibly old vampire (probably a beta) who met him when he was young and adopted Eddie before turning him at the age of 25 (Eddie was dying, and there wasn't a cure for him yet, but that was Wayne's kid, he couldn't let him die so young), because his Uncle's coffin is like, old, Eddie asked and the thing is a certified antique, it's at least a 100 years old and almost falling apart no matter how much care Wayne puts into it.

So Eddie finds out about this carpenter, the guy has never worked for vampires before, but Robin (a local witch and another Omega) recommended him so strongly Eddie agreed to check him out.

Eddie gets immediately infatuated with Steve, the guy is handsome, with a sweet personality, and a body Eddie just wants to sink his teeth into...

So they get talking about the request, and it ends up being a long collaboration, since Eddie didn't actually go prepared for the appointment, so he keeps visiting Steve to make adjustments to the coffin's design and stuff like that.

And if he also uses that time to get to know Steve better and maybe flirt a little? It's nobody's business.

(and maybe Steve also answers sometimes, with

So anyways, Steve finishes the task and is sad he won't see Eddie again, won't get to bask into his amazingly comforting scent again, thinking that the guy probably will leave him behind like so many other commissioners before him who came by, sweet talked him, that even got him into bed one time, and then left once their product was finished, only to never return.

So When Eddie comes to pick up the finished coffin he finds an incredibly sad Omega , and of course he immediately asks what's wrong, does Steve feel bad, should he call Robin? But Steve is so overwhelmed by this simple show of care that he confesses on the spot.

And Eddie is obviously overjoyed by this, corresponding to Steve in that exact moment, zero doubts in his mind that he'll be with Steve for as long as Steve wants him.

Plus: Steve finds out a week into dating that Eddie is a vampire and is very offended that his boyfriend (soon to be mate) tried to hide something so important from him, meanwhile Eddie is like "Babe. Baby. Sweetheart. I literally asked for a bed coffin, I told you my uncle was more than a hundred years old, I once got into your workshop fully bloodstained, fangs out, because I was running late and my last feeding was rough"

"I thought that was paint from those minis you told me you were working on!"

And then they recreate the twilight meme for the funsies.

(and maybe a long time from now they'll be mates, and Steve will turn into a vampire after being Eddie's part-time bloodbag for years, and they'll have a coven full of kids, some theirs, some adopted, but all of them wholly loved and cherished)

And that's all I have in me rn, I really hope you enjoy Lexi, happy day!

(also, fun fact, halfway through writing this I got so distracted by the romance that I forgot about the ABO part of things, and then I tried to revise it, but I'm not sure I did a good job, this could probably be way more abo than it is, lmaoo)

hehe monsterfucker steve is very dear to me, especially when he’s an omega and willing to submit to an alpha as their prey in more way than one💕

[asocialangel]

Your hand holding hcs are so cute!!! :3 if you do a part 3, would you consider doing chigiri, kunigami, and reo?

blue lock - how you hold their hands (pt 3)

Hello lovely ! extremely late, but here it is, the part 3 ! hope u like ittt <3 feel free to request more !

Different ways you hold the bllk’s boys’ hands. 

Hyoma Chigiri, Rensuke Kunigami, Mikage Reo

Short Headcanons ! gender neutral :-)

​​ꕥ

Chigiri: with a loose grip

it's not out of laziness 

nor shame 

it's just logical: you guys are always holding hands, so at some point it's gonna be more casual

thought at first you was the one engaging in hand holding cause he was shy about it, especially in public TT

he eventually gave in and now you just do it constantly

he loves it btw, obviously

so whether its walking to the convenience store, trying to get by a crowd or shopping, it's always you on the left, and him on the right

like you have tacit designated spots

same thing it's just out of habit, nun special

chigiri is the type of boy to go for your hand first as much as you do, as in both of you do it equally as much

your relationship as a whole is very balanced, so it shows in these kind of actions

his grips will tighten at some points tho, when you need reassurance, when he tells you goodbye, or just randomly

kinda to say ‘i love you, by the way’

He also does it when he's scared…

(in roller coasters he insists on holding hands and is totally open as to why sksksksks; he's scared asf)

Anyways, holding him feels comforting !

ꕥ

Reo: with a tight grip

oooh this man is sooo proud of having you

he loves saying ‘you’re mine’, as if the opposite wasn't true

he soooo yours

he's so dedicated to you

this shows in how he holds your hand:

he's always the one going for it

to be fair, you always think about doing it, he just systematically does it faster

and when he holds you, it's with a really tight grip

now, THIS MAN KNOWS ABOUT THE SIDEWALK RULE ⚠️

be assured that he always applies it

unconsciously too

he just wants to protect you uh

nah he's a true gentleman

if you're walking through crowds, he'll hold you even tighter and fray the way into to people, doing all the work for you so you have it easy

Is hand is bigger than yours, ticker too

so if you wanted to escape his grasp, you'd prolly struggle

he holds you tight but his hand is very soft

so it feels so reassuring. 

ꕥ

Kunigami: his arm resting on your shoulders, holding your hand

look idk how to explain this but i’ll try:

he wraps his right arm around your neck, and holds your right hand with his right hand

(i hope it makes sense)

essentially giving you this sense of protection and presence hehe

first of all you're happy to know that he's not shy about holding you 

and also its so wholesome from him

like how'd he even think of that ?

he did it randomly once day and without a word, it become a habit

in your clingy days, you even sandwich is right hand with your left

it's not the most practical way to walk but it ensures you won't be separated hehe

he never ask before doing it, he just goes for it

he's also the one to decide when you let go

also funny thing, you started to notice he would initiate it if he saw someone stare at you for too long hdjdhwhe

possessive boy

(you are very attractive to be fair).

A\N: trying to stay motivated aaa

[ode2rin]

by design, you became mine

pairing. mikage reo x gn!reader

genre. fluff & highschool or teenage romance !

warnings/content. 3k+ wc | profanity | mentions of food | timeline is set before blue lock ! | reo and reader is in their sophomore year in highschool | reader is a bit mean to reo (not in an extreme way, just in a normal teenager-y way) and reo is a sore loser in love | and this is me trying the grumpy x sunshine (obv reo) trope ! | half-assed proofread btw | some parts might be ooc reo but it's fine hehe

summary: reo asks you to tutor him after failing an exam in which he oddly looks happy about

“the teacher said i need to be tutored,” a voice tinged with amusement reached your ears.

looking up, you saw reo mikage standing right in front of you, his million-dollar smile lighting up his face, as he held out a math test paper marked with a big, bleeding red ‘F.’

and for someone who had just allegedly received the lowest score possible on such an important exam, he was definitely grinning a little too much.

“and why should that concern me?” you shot back, hoping to hide your indifference. 

your annoyance seeped into your words, not meant to sound rude, but you craved some peace during your lunch break. hunger gnawed at your stomach, and this interruption wasn't helping.

he shrugged casually, as if the situation were no big deal. if you had received such a grade, you would not be smiling right now, let alone treat this situation nonchalantly. “well, the teacher did mention i could ask anyone. and since you're undoubtedly one of the smartest in the class, it only makes sense to choose you, right?”

with sarcasm making its way to your tongue and translating to your voice, you retorted, “oh, is that so? do you find me worthy of your esteemed company, young master?”

as the son and sole heir of the mikage corp, reo was trained to be an exceptional conversationalist, and there had been only a few instances when he couldn't form a response right away. this one, however, might be the longest he got a cat to get his tongue. reo feels like he’s having a heartburn from your remark, it’s pathetic.

ever so impatient, you, who only wanted to get back to your lunch, beat him to a reply, saying, “what if i refuse?”

quickly recovering from the unexpected turn of events, reo let out a dramatic gasp, “do you not care about my future? what if i don't graduate on time and can't get a job?”

that must be the most bullshit reason you've ever heard from the heir of a business tycoon. you're pretty sure his future is much clearer than any blue sky. but sure, you can play along.

“fine.”

“really?” 

sensing an out-of-place joy in his tone, you raised a brow. was he that thrilled to be tutored?

“i'm sure. now, can i return to my lunch?”

reo's eyes widened a bit as he realized that he was interrupting your meal. hurriedly, he bid you goodbye with a smile.

even with your sarcastic retorts, he walked away, still smiling. his grin was a telltale sign of how much trouble you had just signed up for. 

stupid reo and his stupid, handsome smile.

smiling to yourself, you couldn't help but wonder how he managed to receive such a mark in the first place. you had known him since freshman year (it’s hard not to know him), and you knew that the mikage heir was a born genius. so, could this be a mishap? probably. oh well, he couldn't be so difficult to teach.

you’re wrong.

reo mikage is the worst fucking student.

not only does he seem uninterested in your explanations, completely disregarding all the equations you painstakingly lay out for him, but he also has the audacity to stare at you the entire time.

with that shit-eating grin that never leaves his face.

sure, he's cute, but right now, he's nothing more than a damn thorn in your side.

“is there something on my face that bothers you this much, or do you simply have the attention span of a goldfish?” you said, frustration evident in your tone.

“you're just a bad teacher, i think,” he quips, smugness dripping from his words.

“and you're the worst student, i'm sure,” you fire back, refusing to let him have the upper hand.

“well, how about you give me an incentive?” reo suddenly exclaims, his excitement evident in his sparkling purple eyes.

“and now you're asking for more as if you're not already taking up too much of my time?” you reply sarcastically, but your words carry no venom.

“come on! if i get a high mark on the next exam, you'll give me your number!” he eagerly proposes, his enthusiasm contagious.

do all rich kids have the tendency to want mundane things? 

“what are you going to do with my number?”

“networking! it's a thing in my world. expanding social circles and all that,” he explains, trying his best to come up with excuses that sound remotely plausible.

reo, well aware of the fact that he can only fabricate bullshit excuses in your presence, hopes he's not being too obvious. unfortunately for him, you see right through it, but it doesn't bother you all that much.

“better show me that A+ then,” you challenge, your expectations clear.

oh, it’s on. he’s going to ace that exam, one way or another. not that it’s actually hard.

mikage: hello y/n! mikage: do you have some notes from the discussion from yesterday? mikage: hello?

so much for networking.

mikage: and they finally read my messages! the crowd cheers!

what led to this moment is, once again, reo mikage standing in front of you, grinning from ear to ear, eagerly holding out an exam paper marked with what seems to be the biggest A+ you've ever seen.

that was three days ago, and sure enough, he got the incentive he asked for. and in those days, you damn sure experienced the ‘networking’ he speaks of with how often he texts you.

you: yeah, let me just take pictures of it to send you. mikage: NO you: ??? are you yelling at me mikage: i mean no, don’t take pictures of it. i’m a visual learner. i have to see your notes in person.

is he fucking serious right now?

you: and what do you suggest we do about that? it’s saturday, we won’t see each other until monday, genius. mikage: how about i’ll come to your house? you: how about you try asking nagi for notes instead?

after sending your last message, you put your phone down despite it continuously buzzing, signaling reo's discontent with your suggestion. you did a commendable job of ignoring him until he grew tired of sending unread messages and decided to call you instead.

“what?” you answered, picking up his persistent call.

“the probability of nagi having notes is lower than the probability of cows flying ten years from now!” he exclaimed, and begrudgingly, you admit he sure does have a point in that.

sighing into the phone, you reply, “you can't come here, it's a bit busy.”

“we'll meet up then! i can pick you up?” reo suggests eagerly. the ‘q’ in reo mikage sure does stand for ‘quitter’. 

“do you text and call everyone in your networking circle this much?” you ask, slightly amused.

“what do you mean? we're friends!” he protests.

“did i miss a few pages, young master, or did you get hit in the head with a soccer ball and become a bit delusional?” you tease, unable to resist.

“how about you stop being mean to me?” you could almost hear the pout and the mock hurt in his voice.

you can't, not when you get cute reactions from him in return.

you can't help but find his cute reactions entertaining, and you smile at the phone, even though he can't see it.

“i'll think about it,” you concede.

“okay, you have enough time to think about it while i'm on my way to you! bye, see you in a bit,” he says cheerfully before hanging up.

looking at the phone, you wonder when exactly you agreed to this.

stupid reo and his stupid persistence.

reo is once again in front of you, a scene that has become quite familiar over the course of your friendship.

however, this time you find yourselves in a cozy cafe near your house instead of on the school premises. he’s sitting in front of you, skimming through your notes, probably visually learning, while you sip on the drink he insisted on ordering for you. you gave in, because reo is not a quitter of any sorts. fighting him on the bill is futile and definitely a waste of effort. 

“i’ll pay you back,” you state firmly.

“i asked you here, so i should pay,” reo insists.

“i’ll feel bad.”

“if that’s the case, i guess you can treat me next time?” he suggests with a playful smile.

“you practically dragged me here, and you're already talking about a ‘next time’? you're not being slick, reo mikage,” you retort, not letting him get away with his charm.

“a man could try…” he whispers, hiding his face behind your notes, although you can see his neck turning red.

shaking your head, you shift your attention to the busy street outside the cafe. however, your ears catch the faint hum of a familiar song coming from reo. you know that song — it has been stuck in your head since a famous girl group released their album.

unable to contain your amusement, you chuckle, causing reo to look at you with curious eyes.

still smiling brightly, you remark, “didn’t know you're a fan too,” and laugh once more.

reo, on the other hand, feels starstruck.

he made you laugh for the first time, and was it the prettiest sound he ever heard? it sure is. it feels as if his heart beats in harmony with the rhythm of your laughter. it takes his breath away and brings him back to the present, all at once. it's intoxicating in the best possible way.

once he gets home, he's going to memorize the discography of this girl group. nothing will stop him. he will hum every single one of their songs in your presence.

reo would do that and even more if it means hearing you laugh again. this shouldn't be the last time he gets to experience it.

you had fun with reo last saturday. 

but right now? you sure don’t.

he’s avoiding you, like a fucking plague. and much to your chagrin, you miss having him around, despite his annoying antics. all with his stupid excuses and stupid grins.

he’s physically avoiding you, but you've noticed him stealing glances at you multiple times during this boring history class, his guilty expression not going unnoticed. it's time to put an end to this charade once and for all.

as soon as the bell rings, you quickly stand up and make your way towards reo before he can leave the classroom. looking around to ensure you're alone, you confront him.

“what’s wrong with you?” you demand.

“what do you mean?” reo feigns innocence.

“you’re avoiding me. you did something, didn’t you? did you spill something on the notes i lent you and you can't bring yourself to tell me?” you accuse, trying to get to the bottom of his strange behavior.

reo wishes it was just that. but it wasn't. it was much worse, to the point that even seishiro nagi called him out on it. and seishiro nagi? a man who couldn't care less about anyone because it's a hassle, calling someone out? you know you messed up if he does.

and reo believes he did.

“you're smiling at your phone too much, ‘s creeping me out,” nagi remarked, looming over reo’s phone.

reo shrugged, trying to hide his excitement. “stop being a hater, nagi.”

curiosity piqued, nagi caught a glimpse of your contact number on the screen. “oh? you finally made a move? about time.”

“i didn’t... they're tutoring me,” reo replied, a hint of sheepishness in his voice.

nagi raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “huh? for?”

“uh, i failed a math exam.”

“you?” nagi chuckled, finding the situation rather amusing. 

“okay, fine, the test paper wasn't mine or anyone’s.”

“normally, i won't give a damn, but tell me about it,” nagi said, genuinely interested.

it was an understatement to say that nagi was borderline amused after hearing reo's story, so amused that he had to unintentionally slap reo with the truth.

“basically, you tricked them. should’ve just said that.”

it's safe to assume that nagi's words had struck their way into reo's mind all throughout that day until now.

once again, and perhaps for the last time, reo stood in front of you. but this time, there was no smile on his lips nor a glint in his big purple eyes. he took a deep breath, gathering the courage to confess.

“no, i didn't spill anything on your notes. but i did something to you,” reo admitted, his voice trailing off. seeing your raised eyebrow, he continued, “i tricked you.”

“what?”

"i didn't fail any exam. i didn't need tutoring. no teacher told me to approach anyone. the test paper i showed you wasn't mine. i wasted your time, and i..." reo's voice faltered, barely above a whisper, “... tricked you, because i didn't know how to approach you after having liked you since first year.”

reo panned his eyes to the floor, unable to meet your gaze while his heart sank.

he hasn’t even started yet it's done. he should've come clean. he should've just told you he liked you since freshman year. he should've just asked for your number like a proper man. but he was so fucking shy, unbearable to think of being rejected by you. he could only think of coaxing you to talk to him.

and now his own foolishness was paying the price.

it's over. you and him are done for. he's not going to hear your laughter anymore. he won't ever receive a sarcastic retort again. all those moments of bliss, gone —

“i kinda know.”

what?

reo's eyes widened, and he lifted his gaze to meet yours. how?

“did you forget that the teacher congratulated the class for having good results on the exam you showed me? no one got a score below B+, reo. so imagine my surprise when you came, interrupting my lunch, showing me a paper with an f mark claiming you flunked it.”

god damn it, reo mikage.

it's either you're joking or reo just made the most foolish mistake known to mankind. and none of the former is evident in your face. 

he should really pay attention in class, not on your side profile from where he sits across you. 

a grave grave mistake. can the ground swallow him whole? or can someone shoot him —

no, actually, wait a damn minute.

it was as if all the clogs in reo's brain got a huge power-up as he realized something so spectacular.

“then why did you not say anything?”

you... from the start, could've just refused him. if you knew the entire time. so why did you agree to tutor him in the first place? 

perhaps…? no, reo didn't want to get his hopes up.

he shifted his weight from one foot to the other, his nervousness evident in his fidgeting. it was as if he had been caught in a whirlwind of emotions, trying to make sense of it all. the weight of anticipation hung in the air as he waited for your response, his heart pounding in his chest.

and then, you smiled.

you and your stupidly bright smile that feels like a ray of light on a freezing cold skin that reo is having right now.

he really did not want to get his hopes up, but how in the hell would he do that when you just smiled at his question?

“what does that smile mean?”

“well, it means that maybe you're not the only scheming lovesick fool here, pretty boy.”

oh.

oh.

you knew it all along that he was scheming his way into your heart.

you knew the entire time.

and you let him.

what the fuck. reo was having a heartburn, literally, figuratively, and madly so. all because of you. 

reo snapped out of his thoughts when you waved a hand in his face, vying for his attention. you spoke, “is this everything you’re guilty about? i thought it was something grave. if you told me you spilled something on my notes, i would have started swinging at you, actually.” your laughter filled the room, lightening the tension.

the second time reo made you laugh was because of a scheme that he expected would end whatever beautiful thing you had between you two. not that he’s complaining.

“so you like me back?” reo finally gathered the courage to ask, his voice tinged with hope.

“if we get some food right now, i might answer that coherently. scheming or not, you really do have the habit of interrupting my lunch,” you playfully replied.

“i’d buy you the whole cafeteria if you answer me right now,” reo declared, a touch of desperation in his voice.

the ‘o’ in reo mikage sure stands for ‘overspending’, you’re convinced.

giving in to his request, you took three steps closer to him, barely a foot distance between you. softly, you declared, “yes, reo mikage, i like you too. but i must say, you, making me starve right now, is reducing your chances of being my actual boyfriend.”

“let’s get you some food.” reo said, holding your hand and leading you out of the room like he was on a mission. amused by his sudden swift pace, you let out a laugh.

and suddenly, all tension left reo’s body. his heart once again beat at a normal rhythm. that’s the third time reo made you laugh. surely, it’s one of many more to come.

a minute after walking side by side, you broke the serene silence surrounding you. “not gonna lie, the networking excuse is kind of funny.”

“but it worked. a win is a win,” reo smugly said, showing you your intertwined hands. “see? a win.”

you shook your head at his remarks. your stupid reo and his stupid scheme.

note. hello lovely ppl ! thanks for keeping up w me this far and for following me! as a thanks, here’s a reo fic since i’m missing him so much and emma has been feeding me ideas abt him <3 this is actually the longest i’ve written (i’m so normal abt reo i swear), hope you like it! (btw it goes without saying that this fic, is in fact, another TS inspired hehe love lots!)

𓆩♡𓆪 for one of the best people i met here, @saetorinrin

[judenostopwaitkeepgoing]

Your Villain Buys You Lingerie! 🌸

18+ MDNI | Suggestive Content | EN-released!Villains x Fem!Reader

CW: suggestive content, some mentions of power imbalances, some villains' descriptions are fluff-adjacent hehe

AN: These are the kinds of lingerie/sexy outfits that I think the villains would buy you! Enjoy! These fictional men are a problem for me! Hehe!

William Rex

Will would take your taste into consideration while also managing to select something that he likes. And he would spare no expense. We’re talking designer pieces here. Definitely in shades of red, black, maroon... dark jewel tones, of course. I’m imagining him at the store—the saleswomen absolutely falling in love with him while he describes the kind of sexy lingerie set he wants to buy for you. Would probably land on something that takes time to remove, like a full corset set. He’d want to enjoy the view for as long as possible!  

Harrison Gray

Harry strikes me as a man of simpler tastes. He would pick something cute and comfortable for you, because to him it does not matter what you’re wearing—you are always sexy! But seeing you in the mint-green matching bra and panties that he got you gets him unexpectedly flustered! He’d bury his face in his hand and sigh, “I know I got them for you, but I already want to take them off...” So you get to tease him for once for being such a perv. Win win!

Liam Evans

You know that this certified babygirl knows his way around a lingerie shop okay! He would honestly buy you cute and sexy lingerie all the time. Like you would have soooo many matching lingerie sets from him lol. You could wear a different one every night and not run out for months. He loves to dress you up all cute and sexy! He thinks you look especially good in shades of pink, but he buys you lingerie in every color/style imaginable. And when you put it on he gets flustered, even though he’s seen you in sexy lingerie so many times before. Sorry, he’s obsessed with you!

Elbert Greetia

Okay, talk about sparing no expense. You would have to go to all of the lingerie shops in town to tell them to turn Elbert away at the door next time he comes in because it’s fr starting to be too much lmao. He would of course listen to you if you told him that you don’t need any more lingerie, only handing you one more box. You open it to find gorgeous, handmade pale blue lace garters. “Look on the inseam of them,” he’d tell you. Embroidered on the inside of each garter with pretty blue thread is a message from him. “To my dearest y/n” on one and “a beauty for my eyes alone” on the other.

Alfons Sylvatica

Lol buys you a full black latex/leather dominatrix outfit. You stare at him incredulously and he just smirks at you. “What? You don’t like it?” Try as you might to explain that you don’t hate it, but haven’t worn something like this before, it does not matter! Lol! Alfons will coach you don’t worry! “That’s exactly the idea, y/n,” he’d purr, “seeing someone as innocent and pure as you in such a naughty outfit... the thought alone gets me so excited... see... look, I’m already hard...” Lmao.

Roger Barel

Although he can appreciate a woman’s beauty in pretty much anything, he doesn’t really see the point of lingerie lol. He’s just going to strip you! Why get so fancy? But the idea of you wearing something underneath your clothes all day that he picked out for you does turn him on. Like a secret understanding that you belong to him. He would pick out something simple and elegant, but racier than what you would pick out for yourself so he could enjoy watching you nervously adjust your clothes throughout the day to make sure no one caught a glimpse of what you were wearing underneath...

Victor

Haha, there’s no kind of lingerie out there that Victor wouldn’t want to dress you in! Corsets, teddies, matching bras/panties, G-strings, thigh-high stockings, crotchless panties... You name it, he’s already picked it out for you! You politely decline most of these items, which he of course doesn’t mind (though he’ll pretend to pout). But when he does manage to convince you to wear the cute see-through lilac nighty that he picked out, he can’t take his eyes off you. He’ll whisper compliments in your ear while he runs his fingertips teasingly over the sheer fabric... “Mm, I knew you’d look heavenly in this color.”

Jude Jazza

Buying you gifts has a dual benefit for Jude: he gets to see your reaction and it means you owe him lol. So you better believe that he’s grinning from ear to ear as he watches you unwrap the chastity belt that he bought you. The look on your face is a mixture of disbelief, outrage, and, you hate to say it, anticipation lmao. You know what this means. “The princess was getting so dirty askin’ for naughty gifts and all, so consider this the start of your Good Girl training.” The blood drains from your face and he just grins even more! Get ready! Hahaha!

Ellis Twilight

He would buy you a comfy but sexy black lace bra and panties set, which you love. He’s so delighted that you like the set, so he feels like you won’t mind the second part of the gift: black fuzzy handcuffs that match. He can tell that you get turned on as soon as he shows them to you. “y/n let’s try them out now, okay?” And before you know it you’re in the lingerie he bought you with your hands handcuffed to the bed above your head. “Mm,” he’d say appreciatively, “I want to keep you handcuffed and stripped like this forever, okay?” Buckle up! Lol.

[kurishiri]

03 . . . happy birthday, darius! ˗ˏˋ🪽´ˎ˗

— this translation may not be 100% accurate or may contain creative liberties for characterization or narrative flow purposes. if you enjoy, please consider reblogging, but don’t repost or claim these as your own!

— cw: invasion of personal space, objectification (?)

Darius: People really are unbelievable.

Kate: Huh? Ah, wait for me——

Seeing him turn on his heels, I chased after him going the direction opposite of the commotion in a bit of a panic.

Darius: I’m feeling a bit worn out now.

D: And it looks like the weather will turn on us any minute and start raining anyhow, so I just want to head back.

Looking up, I could see what appeared to be rain clouds, but...

Kate: I would like to get you a present, though, so could you wait a bit for that?

Darius: Did you come across something?

Kate: I did, actually. I won’t take long.

With a faint smile, he gave a nod.

Darius: Alright, but I’ll be heading back first if you do take long.

And so, after that, I hurried off to buy his present and returned to his side,

but the moment we returned to the castle, it started to rain hard, as though a bucket full of water was flipped over,

and despite the fact it wasn’t even night, it was dark outside.

Darius: Thank goodness we beat the rain.

He stared out the window, opening his mouth.

Darius: That said, I sure wasn’t expecting to not only have to see that nonsensical scene, but also have to wait.

Kate: What’s nonsensical now?

Darius: You know, how humans always put the most unbelievable ideas into words, like how they’ll make someone else happy for life and whatnot.

(Oh...)

—— Flashback ——

Darius: People really are unbelievable.

—— End flashback ——

(I didn’t really get what he meant by that, but at that time, Darius’ eyes were bitingly cold.

(I don’t know what makes him think and say something like that, but...)

His profile as he looked out the window seemed to hold a tad bit of loneliness, and seeing that, I felt as though my heart was being squeezed.

(We spent the whole day together, and yet I still don’t know a thing about Darius...)

Darius: So? What did you buy?

His expression changed then, and so I held out my present.

Darius: A handkerchief?

While the design was simple, with honey yellow embroidered on the white cloth, it held a quality of elegance to it.

Kate: I was thinking you could take it with you while you’re out so you could wipe your mouth and whatnot.

K: That, and the embroidery on the handkerchief can also be like a protective charm.

(I still don’t know him well, and I don’t know if there will ever come a day when we can really understand each other completely either, but...)

Kate: I hope you can live a life with just a little less clouding your heart, even if it’s just a single thing.

I had thought the handkerchief resembled him, and when he took it, Darius stared at it fixedly.

Darius: Hehe, you really are a tad strange now, aren’t you.

And then, he suddenly started to laugh.

Kate: Huh?

Darius: It’s just interesting to me because I’ve never had a single human come up and say something like that to me before.

Kate: Not even one?

Darius: .........

D: I mean, see, I can fend for myself just fine, you know?

(Oh, I see, I knew that he was strong, seeing as he’s the leader of Vogel, so maybe something like this was just unwanted on his part?)

While giggling, he placed the handkerchief in his pocket.

Darius: Today was quite interesting, so I won’t turn this into an international problem.

Feeling a wave of relief rush over me, I thought back on today.

Kate: I also had quite a bit of fun today.

K: At first, I was surprised and wasn’t sure what to do,

K: but also, I figured spending your birthday in a whole different country than your home one alone would be a bit lonely, right?

That said, I found myself continuing to think of what to do for what started off as a celebration on a whim, without any plans.

Kate: So that’s why I’m glad I could celebrate it.

While I did feel some sense of unease with him, I turned once again to face him.

Kate: I hope you’ll let me celebrate again.

The moment I said these words, there was a flash of light outside the window, and there was a loud sound.

Kate: Oh, it’s thunder...

Turning toward the window, lightning ran through the sky, and while the sound of thunder surprised me to the point my shoulders jumped,

(It kind of reminds me of the color of Darius’ eyes.)

For some reason beyond me, I felt no fear as I stared outside, and——

Darius: Then, will you celebrate with me next year too?

Kate: What?

When I turned around, I saw him standing there with a somewhat disquieting air about him.

Darius: Next year, and the year after that too...

D: Do celebrate, always and forever, until I draw my veeery last breath.

Kate: Uhm, that...

(I don’t know when Vogel plans on returning to the place from where they came,)

But, if they were still here next year, then...

At that time, I could actually make some plans, and I would want him to feel really happy to celebrate it.

(But, I think until he ‘draws his very last breath’ might be a bit of a stretch...)

But the moment I opened my mouth to speak…

Kate: !

He placed his arm right above my head, and my vision filled with nothing but him.

Although the scent I picked up was gentle and made me feel a bit calm,

the words he murmured in my ear made me anything but calm.

Darius: ...Actually, I do have plans to send some things I don’t need back to Germany.

D: Maybe I should send you with them?

Those words came so out of the blue, I found myself stiffening.

Darius: If I do that, then for you that would mean a betrayal against Crown, and I imagine you would never again be able to return, yes?

His voice as he laughed was gentle, and yet at the same time incredibly cold.

Darius: Then you’d be left with no choice but to stay by my side for life... even knowing that, could you still say the same?

My breath caught in my throat from the fear that rushed down my spine, and I couldn’t look away from those honey-colored eyes that held me captive.

Then, the room once again flashed, and the sound of thunder boomed from behind me——

Darius: Be sure to give me your answer by the time lightning strikes again, alright?

(I had thought he was someone who resembled an angel...)

But perhaps, he was more like the lightning outside, having struck down on my life without so much as a warning.

Fin.

With the sound of thunder, the cruel angel wants the little robin

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