#AS THEY WORKED TOGETHER ON THE Z DRIVE

[ayzaart]

BRO SAID W H A T

i take it that Jinx is not dead, and Timebomb WILL THRIVE AND SURVIVE

[boyslit-moving]

what a fuckin Monday

u know that post where it's like. being an adult is nothing happens for 4 weeks and then EVERYTHING happens at once like a fucking Rübe Goldberg machine?

well it's true

goodbye

*collapses in a heap of bones and unsettling goo*

[signedkoko]

Signed with Love - Overlords & Sins

What is this? - A valentines gift to my lovely readers! Its valentines/love letters from your favourites 🖤

Characters - Asmodeus | Beelzebub | Carmilla | Mammon | Rosie | Valentino | Velvette | Vox | Zestial

Series Parts Hazbin Cast - Here! Helluva Cast - Here!

Dear to the dearest,

You've always got me running myself sappy, but I'd like to offer my hand to you this valentines.

You know how popular Ozzie's is on Valentines, so how about a nice spot for brunch and then we pick a song to perform together tonight? Just you and I on stage, surrounded by people who wish they had what we do~

Eagerly awaiting your reply,

Prince of Lust, and yours forever;

Asmodeus

Heya lovely!

I'm so fucking excited to be spending valentines with you this year, and I don't say it enough so here it is in writing!

Normally I throw a party but I don't know, I kinda rocked with the galentines dinner you suggested, I'm thinking we invite some of our closest and have a hell of a good night, yeah?

You're the only party that matters,

Your Queenie Bee🐝

Mi vida,

I think it's about time we get away from work and the girls, how about we take valentines off?

I've always wanted to show you some of the places I used to frequent, since you always ask it only seems fair. I'm sure you'll adore the cuisine, I miss it dearly.

I'll help you get ready before we leave,

C. Carmine

Sup hottie!

How about we ditch my valentines show and leave it to the performers to take care of shit? I much rather be with ya anyways.

Anything you want, just tell me. I'll take care of everything from there babe.

Love ya more than you know,

MAMMON

Sweetest darling,

I reckon its about time I follow my own advice and pursue the one I love this valentines.

We can take a break from everything and go sight seeing! I don't get away from the town much, but everything you tell me sounds exquisite. We can go somewhere with a nice tune and I can really show you how I used to swing!

What do you say?

Your Rosie

Querida cariño,

Theres no reason for me to ask what I already know, and I don't want to hear another valentines joke about my name.

I know work has kept me busy babe, but this Valentines its just you and I. We can laze around all you want or you can drag me wherever, I'll make sure we get in.

Like a moth to a flame, eh?

Val.

Heya gorgeous,

Ive got two outfits in our sizes that could use a little test drive around town this valentines.

Already booked the photographer, so I hope you'll come model with me for my end february magazine, yeah? If you do a good job we can do dinner and drinks after, though you've never disappointed me, dolly!

You know I love you, always have & will

Velvette

Hope you're doing well, angel

You always joke that I can't write for shit so heres proof. In fact, I'm here to ask you to be my valentine.

I already know its a yes anyway, so how about I let you in on the itinerary? I got breakfast at the local spot booked with live music, an afternoon just the two of us, and for dinner I have our main reservation and a backup in case you don't like it.

Romantic or what?

Owner & CEO of VoxTek, Beloved valentine of you, Vox

Greetings,

Tis with great pleasure that thou is still by thine side after such an overwhelming year.

We must beg thou has considered indulging such an old soul in an evening of romance. Perhaps thou would dare to consider looking upon their bed, for there lays a gift.

Yours affectionately and forevermore,

Z

Authors Note - Who are you expecting a letter from? Who will you accept? I'd love to know! Heres to another part of the valentine sseries 🖤

[pedriosofia]

NSFW ALPHABET, PEDRI GONZALEZ.﹙001﹚

➤ Summary: A to Z of what he would be like in bed.

➤ Warning: SMUT +18, Mention of sex, mention of reader.

➤ Author's note: Translated into English, meaning there may be spelling errors.

A = Aftercare (how they look after sex)

Pedri is the type of person who cleans you with great affection, kisses your forehead, pulls you to his chest and rubs your back until you fall asleep. He likes to hear from you afterwards, to know if it was good, if you want something different. He needs that moment.

B = Body part (his and his partner's favorite part of the body)

He loves the curve of your waist, where his hands fit naturally as he pulls you towards him. You? He loves it when you kiss his neck — it gives him goosebumps.

You love his hands. Strong, sure, and when they're where you want them... well, you know.

C = Cum (basically anything to do with sperm)

He loves to cum inside you, but only when he can — with a condom or on the right days. The idea of "filling you up" drives him completely crazy. He also loves to see you licking him afterwards.

D = Dirty secret (pretty self-explanatory, their dirty secret)

Sometimes he masturbates thinking about things you haven't done yet. Like picking you up at the gym or in the locker room at Camp Nou. He's thought about recording you — but hasn't had the courage to ask yet.

E = Experience (How experienced are they? Do they know what they are doing?)

He's not a veteran, but he knows what he's doing. He learns quickly, listens to his body. He likes to test what works. You? You also know what you want, and together you've become masters in tune.

F = Favorite position

He loves to take you sideways, with one leg over his. He can look at you, kiss you, and still go deep. You love it when he turns you over and whispers things in your ear while he fucks you.

G = Goofy (Is he more serious at the moment? Is he funny? etc.)

Every now and then he'll crack a joke in the middle of it — especially if you're being really serious. But overall, it's intense. When you laugh together during sex, it just makes everything more intimate.

H = Hair (How well groomed are they?)

Always trimmed, well cared for. He likes you to keep it the way you want, but he loves it when you appear all smooth — he notices, even without commenting. And he kisses every part.

I = Intimacy (how are they at the moment? the romantic aspect)

Having sex with him is never just physical. He looks into your eyes, compliments you, calls you "my life". There are days when you cum while hugging each other, almost crying from feeling so much.

J = Jack off (masturbation)

He does, of course. But it's slowed down since you started. He'd much rather have you. But he loves it when you masturbate in front of him - he can't even watch for five minutes.

K = Kink

He has a soft spot for light submission — you giving the orders, he obeys. But he also loves it when you beg. Hands tied, blindfolds, and dirty words... he's into it all.

L = Location (favorite places to do it)

He loves places where they shouldn't be: cars, dressing rooms, building stairs. But nothing beats the couch in his house — a little uncomfortable, but that's where it all started.

M = Motivation (what excites them, what keeps them going)

Seeing you in lingerie? That's it. You wearing his shirt? Damnation. But what turns him on the most is hearing you moan softly. It's instant combustion.

N = No (something they wouldn't do, discouraging)

Nothing that involves real pain or major humiliation. He doesn't like to see you uncomfortable. Anything that takes away the connection — it's out.

O = Oral (preference in giving or receiving, skill, etc.)

He loves to suck you. Like, really waste your time. He stays there until he makes you tremble. Receive? He loves it too, but he gets even crazier when you look up with your mouth full.

P = Pace (Are they fast and rough? Or, Slow and sensual? etc.).

Alternate well - start slow and provocative, then go deep and merciless. But always pay attention to whether you're enjoying it.

Q = Quickie (your opinions on quickies, how often, etc.)

Amman. In the bathroom before going out, in a dark corner at a party, or even during a break in training. It's pure adrenaline. But then you want a full round.

R = Risk (Are they willing to experiment? Are they risk takers? etc.)

He loves a little risk. An unlocked door, almost getting caught. Having you in public, even if it's just with his fingers, is his biggest addiction.

S = Stamina (How many rounds can they last? How long do they last?)

Holds up well. Usually two rounds with stamina — and still gets excited for a third if you provoke him. Likes marathons on the weekends.

T = Toys (Do they have toys? Do they use them? In a partner)

He has a few—a vibrator he holds while he fucks you, and soft handcuffs. He likes to watch you squirm in them. And he's always open for more.

U = Unfair (how much they like to tease)

He's the king of provocation. He makes you beg, stops you right on the edge of orgasm, leaves you wet all day long just with messages. He likes to see you lose control.

V = Volume (how loud they are, what sounds they make, etc.)

He's not loud, but he lets out deep moans and muffled groans in your ear. You? He loves it when you moan loudly—he shows off when he makes you scream.

W = Wild card (a random headcanon for the character)

You have a playlist just for the two of you — and he’s already “accidentally” put it on in the car with his friends. He blushes, but inside he’s all proud.

X = X-ray (let's see what's going on under those clothes)

Athletic, defined body. Strong thighs, firm abdomen. Thick, proportional cock, visible veins — and you already know what he can do with that.

Y = Yearning (How high is their sex drive?)

Very high. He wants you all the time. He sends you a message in the middle of training, comes home and grabs you by the waist. He misses you even when you sleep together.

Z = Zzz (how quickly they fall asleep afterwards)

After all, he quickly falls asleep — but only if you're in his arms. If you get up, he wakes up. It's as if your body is his favorite pillow.

Do not copy or translate. Copyright @pedriosofia on Tumblr!

[eggrollforyou]

You Are My Flame

Ace x F!Reader

CW: Fluffy as could be, angst to comfort, self-worth issues

A/N: This tooth achingly sweet Ace piece goes out to you Z @shy-writer-999! I’m proud of you for all your hard work this semester! As usual, barely proofread because I have no idea what I’m doing. I just wanna write stuff about my favorite 2D fictional boys

Dividers by @cafekitsune

It’s almost dinner time, Thatch has something wonderful cooking for everyone and Ace is nowhere to be found. Really unusual for him considering his relationship with food. It’s almost as bad as his brother’s. You search the ship for all of his usual hiding spots knowing something is up if he’s not being smacked away from the kitchen at this point. Checking his usual places to seek solitude, you forget to check the last one. You precariously climb out onto the Moby Dick’s signature smile, walking along the lip of the ship, you find your Ace. He’s staring pensively on the horizon as the sun begins to set, lighting the sky in streaks of reds, golds, oranges, and purples. The beautiful reflection of it glistening in his eyes. His eyes, they’re all you can see. He’s huddled up, arms perched on his knees that are folded into his chest, head down resting on his arms. Between his hat and his arms, all you see are those wonderful eyes on his freckled face.

“Ace, baby, it’s almost dinner time. Is everything ok?” you whisper to him as you sit quietly next to him, taking up a similar posture, resting your arms on your knees.

“M’fine. Just…tired is all,” he stutters quietly.

“If you’re fine, then I’m the Queen of PIrates, Ace. What’s up? You can tell me anything, let me help you,” you speak quietly, laced with concern, as you reach over and brush your hand between his shoulders. He peeks over at you, his eyes glistening with hurt, tears threatening to spill over, “Why….why do you love me?” he croaks as his voice begins to crack. “I…I’m a monster, born from a monster…I’m not worth it, not good enough. Why do you waste your time with a man like me?” Your heart clenches seeing how unkind he is to himself. How can he not see what happiness he brings? And you stop your thoughts.

“Portgas D. Ace,” you say softly but sternly as you grab his chin to force his eyes on you. His eyes widen slightly, lips parted in surprise, “Every moment with you is a blessing that I will always cherish. I love you because you are kind, because you are adventurous, and loyal, and you fight for what you believe in.” He gulps, taking in your words and his eyes soften slightly out of their previously woeful state. “I love you because you make me happy and safe. You make me laugh every damn day. You can be stubborn as all hell and sometimes it drives me up the wall,” you pause and he lets out an airy chuckle, “But I will never stop loving you. You are the flame that ignites my heart and it will ALWAYS burn for you.”

Ace sniffles trying to fight back the tears that trickle down his face, wiping his nose with his arm in shy embarrassment. Trying to deflect his insecurity he flashes a grin, “Look at you with your love confession, sweetheart. You could have just told me you liked me instead of professing your love.” You glare at him and he laughs, pulling you between his legs, your back against his chest. He takes a deep breath in your hair, finding comfort in you. Giving you a squeeze he whispers in your hair, “Thank you, my little firefly. I love you too,” he closes his eyes as his heart feels full again, your words taking his broken pieces and putting them back together. You hum finding comfort in his embrace as you both sit quietly taking in the smell of the salty sea spray coming off the bow of the ship as you chase the sunset.

Did you like this? I'm flattered! Wanna read more? Here's my Masterlist!

[greatcheshire]

I noticed you weren't on Sarah Z's last video, do y'all not work together anymore?

We still work together when the situation calls for it! The thing is that Sarah will often get creatively motivated on certain topics, especially ones with a more sociological bend. So when it comes to videos like West Elm Caleb, or Replika, or Narcissists, Sarah writes the scripts by herself because that’s her passion and what’s driving her and things she wants to say. I still gave feedback on the script and did a voice line for it. And Sarah and I are still very close friends and I hold them in my heart with so much love and they’re such a brilliant writer and wonderful person. And we are constantly collaborating on the project that really matters: our 200 session dnd game.

[menagerofmischief]

could you possibly do a mark webber nsfw alphabet? i hc he's secretly a dirty old man lmaoo

nsfw alphabet -> mw2

masterlist

nsfw alphabet (a-z)

mark webber x fem!reader

a/n: I was already planning on doing one for mark when I got this request, so perfect timing. likes and reblogs are greatly appreciated! <3

A= Aftercare (what they’re like after the act)

He'll always stroke your hair and pepper kisses all over your face, praising you for how well you did and offering you water and snacks. Will usually drive you a bath, or carry you to the shower but if it's been a long day you'll both just cuddle up and fall asleep.

B= Body part (favorite body part their own or their lovers)

Mark is pretty satisfied with the way his body looks, and hasn't really thought much about what his favorite part is. Maybe his arm.

When it comes to you, he absolutely adores your tits. No matter the size, he's obsessed. Constantly squeezing them, pinching your nipples, groping you ... Once he even offered to let you use his hands instead of a bra while at home.

C= Cum (anything that has to do with it)

Mark is dirty, sue him. While he loves cumming inside of you, watching it run out and then scooping it up and pushing it back inside - he also loves cumming on you. Especially on your face and tits.

He's pretty satisfied either way, so he'll leave it up to you, grunting out a "Where do you want it, sweetheart?" as he pounds into you like a feral animal.

D= Dirty secret (Pretty self explanatory)

It's not as much of a secret as he thinks it is, but he keeps a collection of your nude polaroids you have given him over the years and uses them to jack off when you're not together.

E= Experience (do they know what they’re doing)

He's not as experienced as some other drivers but definitely had his fair share and been around.

Still takes his time to learn all the ways to make you fall apart, because his experience in handling your body is more important to him than any previous one he's had.

F= Favorite position

Loves doing it in doggy, gives him easy access to slap your ass or pull your hair. Also loves cowgirl because he can lean up and suck your nipples while you ride him.

G= Goofy (how serious are they)

He's not goofy at all. It's either intense or super intimate but he's definitely not cracking jokes or being funny.

H= Hair (grooming habits)

He keeps it trimmed but doesn't fully shave it off. When it comes to you, he's okay with whatever you choose to do as long as you feel comfortable.

I= Intimacy (in the moment romantic or rough/dirty)

He really gets deep into the mood, no matter what the mood is. It all depends of the events of the day, if it was a long or particularly bad day it's more romantic and slow.

J= Jack off (do they masturbate and how often)

Doesn't do it very often as you two are together most of the time but when you're not, he's like a teenage boy entering puberty. Will jack off to your photos or video call you so you can masturbate together.

K= Kink (kinks what they like possibly unusual)

Definitively exhibitionism, some light BDSM, and has a bit of a daddy kink.

L= Location (where they like to get it on)

Anywhere, anytime. He likes your bedroom the most because that's where he can really take his time but he's down to go pretty much anywhere.

M= Motivation (what gets them going)

He's a dirty (old) man, anything you do is enough to turn him on. Just say the words and his pants will be on the floor.

N= No (something they won't do)

Will not share you. He's just not up to bringing someone else into the bedroom, no matter their gender.

O= Oral (receiving or giving and how skillful they are)

You know that video of him talking about the Australian kiss?

Prefers giving, especially if you're riding his face. Will spend hours between you legs, working his tongue over your most sensitive spots and making you cry from overstimulation. If he suffocates, he'll die a happy man.

P= Pace (do they prefer it slow or fast)

Usually it's fast and intense, messy kissing, desperate pounding and deep groans as he fucks you like an animal in heat. But on lazy days or bad days it's more of a slow passionate love making.

Q= Quickie (do they prefer quickies or taking their time)

While he does prefer to take his time with you and draw multiple orgasms from you - he is absolutely down for hickeys. Will fuck you no matter how little time you have left or how risky the place is.

R= Risk (do they like to try new things)

He's open to trying anything you want to experience. Is definitively a bit of an exhibitionist so he loves doing it in risky places with high chances of someone catching you.

S= Stamina (how many times they can go)

I think now that he's older he really only cums once, maybe twice on a good day. But that doesn't matter you won't be getting multiple orgasms, because the order of things goes: his mouth, his fingers and mouth, his cock.

T= Toys (are they game for using sex toys on themselves or lovers)

Definitively had a stash of toys hidden in a box under your bed. Multiple different kinds, from dildos and vibrators, to gags, plugs and clamps. Loves using them on you and if you're good maybe he'll let you try a few out on him as well.

U= Unfair (how do they tease or do they enjoy suspense themselves)

Mark loves to tease you to the point you're begging him to do something, anything. He loves when you get whiny and desperate and it makes him tease you even more.

V= Volume (are they loud, what sounds, and do they talk)

As soon as his lips part open it's dirty talk flood. He groans a lot and you'll catch a few moans slipping.

W= Wild card (random headcannon of any sort)

Once upon a time Sebastian had a crush on you. Once upon a time (post Multi-21) Mark fucked you in Seb's driver's room and made him watch.

X= X-ray (what’s down below in those pants)

He's about 8 inches, and he knows how to use it very well. It's not that girth-y but it's still a bit of a stretch. The tip is dark pink.

Y= Yearning (sex drive)

Mark is insatiable, he could happily go at it the whole day with short breaks and it would be his personal slice of heaven. Ready all the time, horny 24/7 and absolutely will make it your problem.

Z= Zzzz (do they sleep after if so how quickly after)

He does start nodding off but will only fall asleep after you have. He finds it comforting to listen to your breathing fall into a rhythm as you curl up into him and fall asleep.

[salemrph]

Masterlist Fanfics: Sylus

Will be updated every now and then. (˶˃ ᵕ ˂˶) I'm absolutely happy about every interaction and comment. Constructive feedback and suggestions are welcome as well.

F I N A L I Z E D ⋆.

Let the world burn: Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 5 | Chapter 6 | Chapter 7 | Chapter 8 | AO3

Summary: A night of celebration ends in chaos—you vanish without a trace. The ransom demand arrives, but Sylus knows this isn’t just about money. What should’ve been a simple rescue mission unearths secrets far more sinister than anyone ever imagined.

O N E - S H O T S ❀⋆.

Beneath His Touch ("Stay with me - Part 2") nsfw/mdni

Summary: After asking Sylus to stay at your place after the date, you just wanted to spent more time with him and since he made you walk around all day, he should at least compensate you for it.

Stay with me, Sylus AO3

I just needed this moment after Magnum Opus. So this is my little fantasy of how it should have ended.

Careful, kitten AO3

Summary: Sylus is tense, quiet, and clearly off his game and you can’t help but poke at him to figure out why.

The Taste of Romance (AO3)

Summary: What was meant to be a quiet Valentine’s Day with Sylus, making chocolate together, takes a turn when a mission interrupts: chasing down Heartbreaker.

Wine, Lies, and Longing (AO3) nfsw/mdni. Based on Nightly Rendezvous.

Summary: You win a romantic vineyard getaway and you invite Sylus. Amidst wine and moonlight, playful pretending blurs into something real—could this be the love you’ve longed for?

"A Hunter's Christmas Hustle" (AO3)

Summary: With Christmas near, you’re hunting for the perfect gifts—including one for Sylus. Can the twins really help with the task? Maybe the effort is the true holiday magic.

"A Hunter's Christmas Hustle: X-Mas Morning" (AO3)

Summary: Christmas morning finds you flustered as Sylus teases about the kiss. With tension building, maybe holiday magic will guide your heart.

Show me I (AO3) nfsw/mdni

Summary: Sylus drives you wild, the heat inside you impossible to ignore. After blackjack, you're caught in his grip, where teasing blurs into desire.

Show me II (AO3) nfsw/mdni

Summary: After playing blackjack, you find yourself trapped under his control, overwhelmed by intense desire as you finally lay beneath this massive man.

On your knees (AO3) nfsw/mdni

Summary: Sylus has balls, showing up at your work as if he own the place. Still, you're glad to feel see him.

I won't admit it (AO3)

Summary: Tera notices that you have change in the past time, and she needs to address this. Are you going to admit your feeling for him?

L O N G - S T O R I E S ⋆˚✿˖°

"The truth can hurt" - Part 1/3 (AO3)

Summary: You’re done with the lies. Everyone, even Sylus, keeps you in the dark. Frustration turns to resolve—you’ll uncover the truth, no matter the cost.

Beneath the Moonlit Altar (Ep. 1)

Summary: Captain Jenna calls a meeting with new intel on Onychinus's leader—a photo and a possible weak spot. You're torn between duty and protecting him.

H E A D C A N O N S ✮⋆˙

Dangerously Persuasive

Quiet Bloom

Midnight Rain

Sleepy morning with Sylus

Dessert Can't Wait

Going to a ski resort with Sylus

Baking cookies with Sylus

Overexcitement before traveling

Headcanon: Shopping with Sylus

Hot wine at the Christmas Market

Setting the Christmas tree with Sylus

Ice cream in winter

Hot chocolate and fun

The movie can wait

T H E O R Y S ࣪ ִֶָ☾.

Breaking down "Where Drakeshadows Fall"

Continuous Symphony

[clairewritesfanfics]

A-Z Fluff Alphabet: Mohawk Mark Grayson

Author's note: The alphabet here is an amalgamation of fluff templates from the following writers: @themarauderstheoutsidersandpeggy, @snk-warrior, @queervibesmydude and @imagineimagineimagine, and my own personal additions.

Adoration: What does he can’t help but gush about you? 

Your brain. Your intellectual curiosity and passion for discussing various concepts, regardless of which field they originate; be it writing an essay about a random video game’s exploration of identity and the Ship of Theseus, drawing out an outline for the evolution of meme culture across generations, or borderline obsessive studying of his own alien physiology. The way your eyes light up and how confident you sound get him excited.

Baby: Does he want a family? 

No. You are his family, the only one he will ever need. 

Comfort: How does he help you when you’re down or stressed?

He tries to joke, hoping it would help you laugh and release some of the anxiety frying your nerves. But if that doesn’t work, he will seat you on the nearest counter and make you look at him. He’ll ask what’s wrong and when you don’t tell him he will kiss you until you feel better.

Dates: What are his ideal dates?

He likes taking you to concerts, can be anything as long as both of you enjoy it, from rock bands to Opera. Alternatively, he would surprise you with tickets to a museum involving your most recent hyperfixation. You two would hold hands and talk while you pass each display. He also flies you to different parts of the world at a moment's notice; "Oh, you suddenly want to collect volcanic rocks? I got you, babe."

Everything: You are his __________.

You are his inspiration, his muse. Your passions are his passions, not for some shallow reason like getting you to like him (he has his good looks and nice ass for that), but because your sincere drive to know more, to explore the world beyond what it is, encourages him to seek for more, too. 

Fight: How often do you argue? How does he handle the fight itself and its aftermath?

“Me and my girl don’t argue, she tells me to shut up and I do” kind of guy. But in all seriousness, he doesn’t like upsetting you, so unless it’s something serious, like your health, then he just goes along with what you want. 

Gifts: Does he spoil you?

I discussed this before in my husband headcanons for him, but he doesn’t actively seek out to buy you presents as often as one would think. It’s just that, when he sees something in a store window or on his phone that reminds him of you, without thinking, he buys it. 

Honesty: Does he keep a lot of secrets from you? Are they white lies or hide world-shattering truths?

He tends to hide his negative feelings, covering them up because he would rather push down all the bad than bother you with it. Otherwise, he’s an open book. You already know the password to all his accounts and he registered your fingerprint on his phone.

Injury: What’s his reaction when he finds you physically hurt?

Tries to alleviate the gravity of the situation with jokes as a way to keep you calm. Actually, if we’re being honest, the bad jokes are to keep his composure while he assesses your injuries and starts planning a murder. 

Jealousy: Is he a green-eyed monster?

He can be prone to jealous fits, but they’re rarely that deep and never last long enough to warrant violent responses. That being said, the one thing that can really grate him is when someone else manages to have you ramble about your most recent hyperfixation–only he gets the privilege of listening to your spiel.

Kiss: Describe the way he kisses you.

Lifts you up on kitchen counters, stands between your knees and has his hands over your thighs. Kisses you playfully.

Longing: Who fell first? How did you two get together?

He is a natural flirt, so you didn’t take him seriously at first. “That’s just how he is with everyone,” you used to say. Mark didn’t realize it himself, but he stopped hitting on others and unconsciously focused on you every time you were near. When he finally had that "oh shit" moment, he immediately tried to convince you that he wanted you.

Marriage: Does he want to be your husband?

Originally, no. He used to believe that marriages were pointless in that they were “merely labels” and if two individuals truly love each other then a piece of paper was meaningless. You then countered that if it was meaningless then it shouldn’t matter if he agreed to marry you. To this day, it was still his favorite loss.

Nightmare: What is his greatest fear?

That one day you would lose your wide-eyed curiosity.

On Cloud Nine: Is it obvious to tell when he is happy?

He’s already a pretty chill guy, but his underlings know he’s in a really good mood when he isn’t mocking everyone he comes across, and they all know it’s because of you.

PDA: Yes or no? If yes, to what degree?

Yes. He isn’t opposed to giving you a peck or having his arm around your shoulders while you’re out on a date, but he’s not going to make out with you in a park or a family restaurant. 

Quaint: What is his favourite non-modern thing?

Ink and paper books.

Rhythm: What’s his favorite song or genre of music?

Doesn’t have one. His rule is that if he hears a beat that he likes then he likes it. He’s an open-minded guy, so you would be hard-pressed to find him disliking anything. He’s no poser. 

Spa: What helps him relax?

Lying with you, on a bed or a couch or a picnic blanket, while he reads, shutting you up with kisses when you laugh at the stupid lines.

Tea: What do you two often converse about? 

Everything under the sun. The beauty of your relationship is that you two don’t feel restricted about the topics of your conversation, you’re not afraid of sharing your thoughts about the most niche topic and he knows you can keep up with his interests. Each of you has something to offer and nothing is off the table. 

Understanding: How well does he know you?

Enough to know what kinds of books you would definitely fall into obsession with. 

Value: How important is the relationship to him?

So much so that if he ever lost you, he would try to erase every trace of you, because if he didn’t how else was he supposed to breathe? He would turn to violence and parties and meaningless one night stands to forget about you, even if just for a moment. He wouldn’t be able to stand anyone who looks like you, so every single one of his flings would be the opposite of what you looked like. 

Wild Card: Random fluff headcanon

He’s a philosophy nerd. When he was younger he was interested in ethics, but right now, he’s really into existentialism and absurdism. He also dabbles in poetry. 

XOXO: How affectionate is he?

Super affectionate. He is never afraid to tell you and show you how much he adores you. 

Yearning: How does he cope when you two are apart?

Mark always preferred the epicureans, but you’re more of a stoic, and stoics believe that patience is a virtue, so he bites his tongue when you tell him that no, he can’t come with you to girls’ night. He distracts himself by reading so that he can complain to you about the garbage he had to read while you were away.

Zebra: If he wanted a pet, what would he get?

He wouldn’t call them pets, more like decoration, but he would like a whole bloom of Turritopsis dohrnii, a species of jellyfish. One of his favorite dates with you was scuba diving somewhere in the Mediterranean Sea, and that was where you first saw one in person. “It’s functionally immortal,” you said when you two resurfaced. He hopes that, like this jellyfish, your time together will be everlasting. 

a/n: I'm thinking of taking requests again (last time I did it was for MHA back during The Plague, LOL), but until I sort out my rules, you guys can ask for Mark Grayson (and his variants) fluff for now. Also, I must say, after seeing that post about semicolons, I found myself using them a in my recent fics. Subliminal messaging at its finest LOLOLOL

MASTERLIST | request rules | ask box

Other Fluff Alphabet for Mark Grayson Variants:

Omni-Mark

[deliciousangelfestival]

Love Me A Little

Character: Secretary!Bucky x Female!Reader

Words: 1,539

Summary: "Love me, even just a little." When she uttered those words, they struck Bucky like a bolt of lightning, leaving him utterly bewildered. After all, he was just a secretary—his world and hers seemed galaxies apart.

Main Masterlist || support: Ko-fi

Thank you to everyone who has read this chapter. Leave a comment and Reblog, please. I'd love to hear your thoughts. ❤️

A/N: Check out the male version of this story - Be Mine.

It was already 1:00 a.m., and the streets lay deserted, easing Bucky's drive. The sleek black Bugatti smoothly entered the apartment basement car park. Just one more turn, and he would find his usual parking spot.

"Screech." The sound of tires screeching echoed in the empty basement.

"Huh?" Bucky's foot instinctively hit the brake as he caught sight of the familiar figure standing in front of his car.

"Y/N?"

It's you. The sole daughter of the Rogers family, the heiress to Starlight Enterprises, a conglomerate spanning oil and gas, telecom, retail, and financial services.

You had fled, prompting the company to dispatch security teams in search of you.

And here you were.

Bucky stepped out of the car. "What are you doing? Don't you realize everyone's been searching for you?"

You scoffed, your tone laced with defiance. "So what? At least everyone will learn that I'm serious. I refuse to marry that guy."

Bucky understood the depth of your frustration. Your family was orchestrating an engagement between you and their business partner. But you vehemently opposed it. He comprehended why; the man they wanted you to marry was notorious—a playboy and a drug addict.

Unable to sway your resolve, Bucky carefully chose his words. "You should go home."

He reached out, gently clasping your hand, his touch pleading, wanting to guide you to safety.

But you recoiled, pushing his hand away. "I don't want to."

Bucky's heart sank, his expression pained. "Your family is worried about you."

Your retort was sharp, cutting. "Are they really? Or are they just afraid of losing their golden ticket?"

A tense silence enveloped them as Bucky grappled with the weight of your words. As the secretary to your brother, Steve, the Vice President, he was privy to the inner workings of wealthy families, aware that most marriages were arranged for business purposes.

Like Steve and Peggy, who defied the odds and found happiness together despite the pressures of their world, you refused to succumb to a loveless marriage.

With teary eyes, you gazed at Bucky, desperation etched in every tear. "I'll tell my parents I'll marry you instead."

Bucky sighed, feeling the weight of your request once more. You had asked him this before, seeking refuge from the loveless future awaiting you. Each time, he had declined.

"Not everything will always go your way," he murmured, his words heavy with resignation. "You've been living in a bubble as Princess Rogers." He paused, unable to bring himself to utter the name of your family's empire. "Now you're facing reality."

You fought back the tears, stung by his harshness. It was the first time Bucky had spoken so coldly to you. "Do you think my feelings for you are fake?"

"My whole life has been arranged from A to Z without my opinion," you continued, your voice trembling with suppressed emotion.

"The only thing I have is my dream of us living happily ever after. Can I at least have that?" Your breaths came in ragged gasps as you struggled to contain your emotions.

"Stop dreaming. Go home," Bucky commanded, his voice firm as he pointed behind you.

'Screech.'

With a screech of tires, a white Mercedes arrived to collect you. It dawned on you that Bucky had already informed the security team of your whereabouts.

As you watched Bucky walk away, a surge of determination washed over you. Clenching your fists, you whispered, "I'll show you."

########

A few days later

The entire Rogers family had gathered for tonight's dinner, including your grandparents, Thomas Rogers, the esteemed founder of the company. Bucky joined the dinner as well, having become one of the company's key figures, seated right beside you.

Despite the gravity of your previous conversation, you seemed to have put it aside, acting as if nothing had happened when you saw Bucky.

The dinner unfolded in its usual extravagant manner, with everyone engaging in polite small talk until dessert was served.

Your grandmother, Anna, broke the silence. "It's wonderful that we could all come together like this. We must discuss our youngest's engagement."

Your mother, Sophia, nodded, her smile gentle. "I met with them four days ago, and we've already ironed out all the details, from the church to the wedding."

Bucky's mind raced. Four days ago? That's precisely when you had gone missing.

Anna's excitement bubbled over. "This wedding will be magnificent. I can hardly contain myself."

But only the two women seemed enthused; your grandfather, Thomas, and your father, Benjamin, remained stoic, while your brother Steve stayed silent.

Then, a sudden sound cut through the air—a sharp "clank" as a fork stabbed into a plate.

All eyes turned to you.

"I don't like it," you stated flatly, your voice cutting through the tension like a knife.

Sophia's hand hesitated mid-air, poised to call the waitress, but froze when she heard her daughter's words.

"I don't like anything," you continued, your voice ringing with defiance. "I don't like that person, the wedding, anything."

"Y/N, stop," Sophia interjected, her tone tinged with frustration. "We've discussed this."

"Discuss?" you retorted bitterly. "Do you mean when you ignore my words?"

Anna's patience wore thin. "Y/N, enough with the tantrum. This concerns the entire family."

You crossed your arms defiantly. "I refuse to marry him."

Anna rose from her seat, ready to reprimand you, but a sharp glance from Thomas halted her in her tracks. Without a word, she sank back down, chastened by her husband silent command.

Thomas fixed you with a steady gaze, the same gaze that had once spoiled you as his beloved granddaughter. "Explain to me the reason why."

"I don't love him," you declared, your voice trembling with emotion. "I love someone else."

A sudden palpitation coursed through Bucky's chest. He sensed the situation spiraling out of control.

"Whose the person you love?" Thomas inquired, his voice firm.

You didn't hesitate. "Bucky."

'Ba-dump'

The room fell into stunned silence, broken only by the rapid thudding of Bucky's heart echoing in his ears, his mind racing as he grappled with the revelation unfolding before him.

Bucky rose hastily, his intention to apologize to the Chairman halted as your hand clasped his, the determination in your eyes stopping him in his tracks. It was the first time he had seen you like this, and it sent a shiver down his spine.

As all eyes turned towards you, you swallowed hard before speaking up. "And I'm pregnant. Bucky is the father."

The room erupted in chaos as Sophia and Anna screamed in unison.

"What?" they exclaimed in disbelief.

"Bucky! How dare you touch my daughter!" Sophia lunged forward, her hand reaching for Bucky's hair, but Benjamin intervened, restraining her.

Bucky opened his mouth to protest and deny the accusation, but the words stuck in his throat. He was taken by surprise, too.

"Silence," Thomas, the Chairman's authoritative voice, cut through the commotion, bringing an abrupt end to the chaos.

He rose from his seat, followed by Benjamin and Steve, their expressions a mix of shock and concern.

Fixing Bucky with a steely gaze, Thomas uttered just two words. "A word."

Bucky swallowed hard, his heart pounding as he replied, "Yes, Sir," bracing himself for the inevitable confrontation.

########

In Benjamin's office, Bucky stood before the three men, the weight of their scrutiny heavy upon him as they remained silent. Finally, Thomas broke the tension with a direct question. "Is everything true?"

Bucky knelt before his boss and friend, his voice steady but his heart pounding. "No, sir. None of it is true. I've never laid a hand on her."

Thomas's expression softened, a flicker of relief crossing his features. "Good."

Bucky let out a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding, grateful for Thomas's understanding.

But then Benjamin spoke up, his tone contemplative. "Then why don't you like my daughter?"

Bucky's brow furrowed in confusion as he lifted his head to meet Benjamin's gaze.

"She's better off with you than with that spoiled man," Steve interjected, his voice firm.

Benjamin nodded in agreement, his eyes holding a hint of understanding.

Bucky was taken aback. "What?"

Thomas leaned forward, his voice grave. "The wedding arrangement was orchestrated by my wife and Y/N's mother. I'm relieved my granddaughter took a stand today."

Steve clapped Bucky on the shoulder, a mixture of relief and gratitude in his eyes. "I nearly lost my cool when she said she was pregnant. I almost punched you. Thank goodness it was a lie."

Bucky struggled to find words, overwhelmed by the unexpected turn of events.

Steve's tone softened. "Stay with her. I won't allow my sister to marry that man."

As the men continued their discussion, Bucky's mind raced, unable to fully comprehend the depth of their support.

Excusing himself, Bucky closed the door behind him, only to find you waiting for him outside.

Your worried expression melted his defenses as you approached him.

"What did they say?" you asked, searching his eyes for answers.

Bucky hesitated, then shook his head. "Nothing."

You breathed a sigh of relief and pulled him into a tight hug, his body stiffening like a log. Lifting your head to meet his gaze, determination flashed in your eyes.

"I'll make you love me," you vowed softly. "Even just a little."

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Author Note: Hey friends,

If you've been enjoying the content, I've set up a Ko-fi account.

Your support through tips would mean the world and help me keep creating.

Only if you feel like it!

Here's the link: Ko-fi

Thanks a bunch for being fabulous followers!

[classic-blue]

Nature of the Arcane- Positive and Negative Energy

(For reference, Arcane = the series; arcane = the magic) Come help me figure out how the heck the magic system of Arcane works.

What is the anomaly? Why was it born? Why is it that other mages in the series don't seem to cause anomalies, but Hextech does?

I refuse to be content with a magic=good or magic=bad explanation, and Arcane loves to play with nuance. I was trying to sort out my thoughts on why some magic has bad side effects while others don't, and this is where I'm sitting now. My (spit-balled, half-baked, and probably leaking) thesis:

The arcane/using magic has 2 separate outputs: the order you placed (Hextech) and the resulting exhaust (wild runes; the anomaly). Hextech can use runes to control magic, but there's a second output of natural, wild magical energy, that Hextech doesn't account for. Both of these energies can build up, and when they're reunited, they have explosive reactions (see: Mage Viktor's world, the final blip that takes Jayce and Viktor, and possibly various smaller explosions throughout the series).

For example, when positive and negative charges meet, lightning strikes.

Justification below the cut.

Science break! Ever been shocked by static electricity? That's because of a buildup of one charge, say positive, on you, and a buildup of negative charge on another object. Nature loves balance, so when you two touch, the charges discharge in a shock that connects the positive and negative charges and allows them to balance out. Size this idea up big enough, and you get lightning- powerful, fast, and destructive.

More importantly though, you can't just charge positive energy, without also charging negative energy at the same time-  creating one by necessity creates the other, so that there's an overall balance of electricity types (hey look, a metaphor, creating one inevitably leads to the other…).

Let's carry this idea over to the arcane. What if there's a 'positive' magic and a 'negative' magic output?

(Note, I use the electricity words here intentionally- positive/negative do not mean in a cosmic/moral/ethical way, but in a scientific, 'hey we need 2 connected words to separate these concepts' sort of way.)

Positive: Hextech; runes; the intended output. Teleportation, levitation, everything we see it accomplish.

Negative: the wild rune, the anomaly; the unintended output.

And, when the two come together, lightning strikes.

Lightning 1- Viktor vs Ekko's Z-drive. Viktor spends S2 becoming a centralized conduit of 'positive' magic, via the Hexcore and top ups from the crystals under the Hexgates. As the Machine Herald, the claw is continually using runes and doing magic behind him. In short, he's been building up a lot of positive magical energy. When Ekko chucks the Z-drive at him, it's powered by an anomaly, or 'negative' magical energy. Put the two forces together, and let the fireworks happen; a part of the Machine Herald's mask gets struck off in the blast. (But the Z-drive has less negative energy than Viktor's positive, so it doesn't totally wipe him out.)

Lightning 2- Viktor and Jayce's rainbow time. Jayce's acceleration rune might be the negative magical energy in this case (since it travels with him via Mage Viktor's anomaly), paired with the anomaly that Viktor grabbed beneath the Hexgate. That works in opposition to Viktor's compiled positive magical energy via the Hexcore and similar products. With these together, the balance between positive and negative is reached, achieving net neutral magic dispersion, and of course, an implosion that sucks in (or teleports, we can be happy) Jayce and Viktor, ending the conflict.

Perhaps in Mage Viktor's timeline, a similar explosion occurs, resulting in the destruction that we see Jayce traverse in the alternate timeline. But in the main timeline, Jayce and Viktor were able to contain that explosive potential to just themselves, via Jayce's acceleration rune.

"Pass me a tome" Jayce's (quoting Viktor) explanation of the anomaly/wild rune (S2:E3)

Jayce says that Viktor theorized that wild runes are "patterns that would occur naturally where the border between our world and the Arcane is thin." By the theory, wild runes are expressions of magic not quantifiable by traditional runes- natural outputs of magic that are uncontrollable and untamable.

This still works with my positive vs negative theory- it's just that Hextech, and by extension the boys, are only viewing it from the perspective of positive energy (they accessed magic, but really only half of it). From that view, negative charge, which they can't interpret why it's building up or that it even is, might look pretty wild and untamable- however, we see mages control this negative magical energy. Mage Viktor uses the anomaly to send Jayce back to his timeline. The Machine Herald is able to transport it and start to destroy/convert the world.

Because it's still a useable product, so long as you understand what it actually is, I'm not fully content to say that the anomaly is an entirely wild thing, or an unpredictable force. It's possible that Mage Viktor intentionally manipulated it to send Jayce, Ekko, and Heimerdinger to their temporary alternate universes to set in motion events to save the main timeline. I think the anomaly definitely has somewhat volatile characteristics, a bit more chaotic perhaps, but it's still controllable.

(Additionally, Ekko breaks time using both hex shards (assuming they're still in the Z-drive, I'm not sure off the top of my head), and a tiny anomaly. The fact that he's able to control it to a degree also shows that the anomaly is not fully wild and untamable.)

I suppose my overarching feeling is that the anomaly is not necessarily better or worse, or more dangerous, than the 'positive' magic of Hextech- it's just a different, inevitable byproduct of magic use.

Then why don't mages cause anomalies and 'lightning strikes'?

Simple- they know how to account for both positive and negative energy in their spellwork. They know how to equate a balance, so nothing blows up in their faces.

Granted, the only mages we really see in Arcane are Mel, the Black Rose, and Mage Viktor, and the only real discussions we get about magic is from either the Hextech nerds or Heimerdinger, who may not be working with the full picture of how the arcane works. Our sources with regards to actual mage work in Arcane are pretty thin (and I probably need to rewatch Mel's S2 scenes).

But the Black Rose mentions as Mel leaves that (paraphrased) 'it's a dangerous world out there for a solitary mage.' This seems to imply that mages work best in collaboration- perhaps that allows for a balance between positive and negative energies, preventing 'lightning strikes.'

The real point- The Need for Collaboration

While the obvious theme to be drawn from this is the need for balance, another interesting one is the need for collaboration. If mages in Arcane indeed do work together to prevent destructive magical fallout, this again points back to a core element of Arcane's relationships:

Things (magic in particular) work best in collaboration.

That's how the boys crack Hextech

That's how Jinx and Vi start to bring Vander back and reconcile

That's how Viktor and Sky work in the commune

That's how Ekko, Powder, and Heimerdinger crack Hextech again

That's how Caitlyn and Ambessa start to work, and how the lack of honest collaboration exposes Ambessa's selfish gains and weakens Caitlyn emotionally and politically

That's how Mel literally does everything politically (and why her arc narratively suffers when she's on her own against the Black Rose for so long [I still love her tho])

That's how Piltover and Zaun fend off Ambessa's assault

That's how Viktor and Jayce end it- together.

More assorted thoughts on this topic:

This theory somewhat requires that the arcane is not conscious, not retaliating for Hextech using magic improperly, which is debatable. The Black Rose says "the arcane is waking up," which could imply a sentient force, or simply a natural force like how the world 'wakes up' to spring after winter. Ekko also claims that Jayce 'pissed off' the arcane, which Jayce is cutely embarrassed about, which is a possibility, but not one that I'm getting into here- it's entirely possible that Ekko is also wrong! Jayce and Viktor frequently are! (also, the hexcore being sentient does not necessarily mean that the arcane is sentient- Viktor describes it as a learning matrix, so it could very much be a Flubber situation. He done taught the rubix cube science before ethics.)

As Viktor brings Jayce up to the top of the Hexgate, Viktor winds the anomaly in his staff and talks about the balance between order and chaos- maybe positive magic is one and negative the other?

@avelera and @linddzz were throwing around some awesome thoughts similar to this strain, including how it looks like Mage Viktor 'cleans up' the smoke output of the spell in the snowstorm. Their theory is that what I call positive and negative energy is actually constructive vs destructive force in equal output from the Arcane, and that balance between those two types is needed (i.e. if you want magic to do what you want, you also need to let it blow up some stuff) which would also explain what I've called lightning here. Definitely worth a read!

There are so many holes in this theory, but I still wanted to organize my thoughts about the anomaly, Hextech, and how Arcane tells the audience to view magic. In S1, Hextech is all good and great, possibly dangerous, but in S2, Hextech and its byproducts are all infectious, destructive, and never productive. I found the switch a little jarring, and went searching for a deeper meaning.

Also… does this mean that Arcane is actually a big metaphor for the dangers and impacts of technological advancement on natural society and how Mother Nature will come back to bite us all in the butt? Has Arcane been a secret Ghibli film all along???

[artsekey]

I'd been seeing videos on Tiktok and Youtube about how younger Gen Z & Gen Alpha were demonstrating low computer literacy & below benchmark reading & writing skills, but-- like with many things on the internet-- I assumed most of what I read and watched was exaggerated. Hell, even if things were as bad as people were saying, it would be at least ~5 years before I started seeing the problem in higher education.

I was very wrong.

Of the many applications I've read this application season, only %6 percent demonstrated would I would consider a college-level mastery of language & grammar. The students writing these applications have been enrolled in university for at least two years, and have taken all fundamental courses. This means they've had classes dedicated to reading, writing, and literature analysis, and yet!

There are sentences I have to read over and over again to discern intent. Circular arguments that offer no actual substance. Errors in spelling and capitalization that spellcheck should've flagged.

At a glance, it's easy to trace this issue back to two things:

The state of education in the United States is abhorrent. Instructors are not paid enough, so schools-- particularly public schools-- take whatever instructors they can find.

COVID. The two year long gap in education, especially in high school, left many students struggling to keep up.

But I think there's a third culprit-- something I mentioned earlier in this post. A lack of computer literacy.

This subject has been covered extensively by multiple news outlets like the Washington Post and Raconteur, but as someone seeing it firsthand I wanted to add my voice to the rising chorus of concerned educators begging you to pay attention.

As the interface we use to engage with technology becomes more user friendly, the knowledge we need to access our files, photos, programs, & data becomes less and less important. Why do I need to know about directories if I can search my files in Windows (are you searching in Windows? Are you sure? Do you know what that bar you're typing into is part of? Where it's looking)? Maybe you don't have any files on your computer at all-- maybe they're on the cloud through OneDrive, or backed up through Google. Some of you reading this may know exactly where and how your files are stored. Many of you probably don't, and that's okay. For most people, being able to access a file in as short a time as possible is what they prioritize.

The problem is, when you as a consumer are only using a tool, you are intrinsically limited by the functions that tool is advertised to have. Worse yet, when the tool fails or is insufficient for what you need, you have no way of working outside of that tool. You'll need to consult an expert, which is usually expensive.

When you as a consumer understand a tool, your options are limitless. You can break it apart and put it back together in just the way you like, or you can identify what parts of the tool you need and search for more accessible or affordable options that focus more on your specific use-case.

The problem-- and to be clear, I do not blame Gen Z & Gen Alpha for what I'm about to outline-- is that this user-friendly interface has fostered a culture that no longer troubleshoots. If something on the computer doesn't work well, it's the computer's fault. It's UI should be more intuitive, and it it's not operating as expected, it's broken. What I'm seeing more and more of is that if something's broken, students stop there. They believe there's nothing they can do. They don't actively seek out solutions, they don't take to Google, they don't hop on Reddit to ask around; they just... stop. The gap in knowledge between where they stand and where they need to be to begin troubleshooting seems to wide and inaccessible (because the fundamental structure of files/directories is unknown to many) that they don't begin.

This isn't demonstrative of a lack of critical thinking, but without the drive to troubleshoot the number of opportunities to develop those critical thinking skills are greatly diminished. How do you communicate an issue to someone online? How do look for specific information? How do you determine whether that information is specifically helpful to you? If it isn't, what part of it is? This process fosters so many skills that I believe are at least partially linked to the ability to read and write effectively, and for so many of my students it feels like a complete non-starter.

We need basic computer classes back in schools. We need typing classes, we need digital media classes, we need classes that talk about computers outside of learning to code. Students need every opportunity to develop critical thinking skills and the ability to self-reflect & self correct, and in an age of misinformation & portable technology, it's more important now than ever.

[goldenraeofsun]

we do, but friends don't

“Maybe it’s my Daddy Issues showing,” Lois muses.

From her La-Z-Boy recliner, Clark chokes on the beer he’s been nursing for the past hour.

Lois swirls the dregs of her second homemade martini – extra olives, extra gin – in her hand. The world has gone all swirly, and Clark is a vague Kansan-shaped lump in the corner. She’d turned off most of the lights a few hours ago; they were doing nothing for her burgeoning headache, and she needed to power through her article.

She pressed the submit button on her next front-page expose exactly 49 minutes ago, and she fucking deserved a drink after nearly dying twice (shut up, Clark, that third thing totally didn’t count) and ruining her most comfortable pair of pumps running through the mud. After downing her first martini in record time, she doubled the gin and started to savor her hard-won second drink. 

“Do you want some water? I could get you some –”

“I mean,” Lois continues, ignoring Clark’s inane prattling, “obviously everyone and their goddamn brother knows about my… thing for Superman.”

Clark practically glows in the dark, his cheeks are so red. God, he’s such a prude.

Remind her why she likes him again?

Oh right, because he’s nice and the type of old-school gallant that seemed like a front to get into her pants until she saw him literally act the same way towards ancient, half-blind Mrs. Kowalski from next-door. 

Lois spent their first six months working together giving him the cold-shoulder, scooping him at every opportunity possible (and some impossible ones because she’s damn good at her job) to drive him off. She’d met his type, and they'd never gotten anywhere with her before, and she wasn't going to give any ground now. But Clark was determined, and that determination was honestly what won her over in the end. Since, as it turned out, she hadn’t met Clark’s type before.

He never hounded her for a date – he asked her out exactly once, to a very safe coffee date, not even dinner – and listened and didn’t sulk about it when she let him down. He was a little quieter for the next week at work, but otherwise internalized whatever was going on behind those enormous glasses and didn’t take it out on her.

Anyway, that was nearly five years ago now. He’d moved on, and Lois clearly set her sights on someone else.

“I think it’s because he’s unattainable,” Lois continues.

Clark jumps up from his seat. “I’ll go get you that water,” he mumbles as he all but sprints to her kitchen.

Lois rolls her eyes to the ceiling, and if she had x-ray vision, would she see Superman soaring overhead, watching over Metropolis, protecting them all from harm?

“My dad’s a general, you know,” she says, raising her voice, so Clark can hear her. “Dragged us all over the country. Treated Lucy and me like his own mini platoon of two. Tough love, that was his motto. Allergic to physical affection. Said ‘I love you’ to my face exactly two times. And now it’s the exact same with Superman, a man who would never even think of – do you think he can feel love like we do? Do aliens – ?”

Clark appears at her elbow, almost out of thin air.

“Woah,” Lois gasps, jerking back in surprise. She must be drunker than she thought.

“One more sip, then water,” Clark says, his blue eyes steady behind his outrageous glasses.

“I’m not a child,” Lois says before taking the largest swallow of her martini that she can gulp down. “You don’t have to baby me.”

“Agree to disagree,” Clark says with a small smile as he swaps her glass for his. “You’re not a child, of course. But you could use a little babying, I think. Especially after the long week you’ve had.”

“Mm hm,” Lois hums as she tips back the water. “Got that right, Smallville.” She raises her eyes to meet his as he settles down on the couch next to where she’s sprawled over three-quarters of it, legs akimbo, one arm draped over the back, the other propping her head up on the armrest. “How about you? Do you have any daddy issues worth sharing?”

Clark twitches.

“C’mon,” Lois sits up a little, smirking. “It’s sharing hour.”

“Most people would call this the sleeping hour, since it is two o'clock in the morning.”

Lois waves him off and makes a pfft sound in the back of her throat. “Like I could get you to cop to any of this in the harsh light of day.” She squints and the fuzzy edges around Clark settle into something more definite. “You do!” she crows. Her instincts are never wrong. And Clark might be a tough nut to crack, but she’s the best for a reason, and it’s not because of her killer legs or shiny hair – it’s her investigative nose.

Clark sighs. “I’m adopted, Lois. I think daddy issues are part of the deal.” He picks up his half-empty beer bottle and slowly rotates it in his hands. “My parents are wonderful, the best, honestly. But my birth father… there’s a lot of questions there.”

Lois blinks. “You’re adopted?”

Clark lifts one shoulder in a half-shrug. 

“Since when?” she demands. How did she not know this?

“Since as long as you’ve known me,” Clark says wryly.

“You never told me!”

Clark pats her shin, her closest body part. “You never asked.”

Lois tosses back her glass, nose wrinkling as the ice-cold water hits her tongue. No gin. “Regardless,” she says in a sad attempt to regain her composure, “you should’ve said. These are the types of things best friends know about each other.”

Clark’s eyebrows fly up, higher than the rims of his glasses. “I’m your best friend?”

“Well it’s certainly not Steve Lombard,” Lois says flatly, fighting desperately not to let her panic show on her face.

Clark just stares owlishly at her. “I just thought…” he drifts off.

Lois bristles. “Look,” she says, and, god, it’s so much easier to lean into her anger than embarrassment, “I know I’m not yours, and I don’t play well with others on the playground, so just forget I said –”

Clark squeezes her ankle, and Lois shuts up at the look on his face. “For someone so confident, you have the weirdest insecurities.”

“If this is supposed to make me feel better –” Lois starts hotly.

“Of course you’re my best friend,” Clark says, his voice almost unbearably sincere.

“Oh.”

Clark sits back, a small smile playing on his lips. “What makes you think you weren’t?”

Lois throws up her hands, slopping half her water over the floor. She rolls her eyes as Clark immediately grabs a few of their abandoned take-out napkins to mop it up. “It’s just… you’re so nice.”

“What does that have to do with anything?” Clark asks as he gets down on all fours before she can lift a finger, practically proving her point for her.

“People like you.”

“People like you too,” Clark points out.

“People admire me,” Lois says, her mouth twisting. “People want to sleep with me. People are intimidated by me. Very few people actually like me.”

After a beat, Clark protests, “I like you.”

“Pretty sure you’ve taken one too many hay bales to the head, but I’ll take it,” Lois murmurs as she flops back on her couch.

“You’ve never been a maudlin drunk before,” Clark says as he straightens, slips in a leftover bit of water, and braces himself on her couch. “What brought this on?”

Lois shrugs. “Maybe all the near-death experiences are finally catching up with me. Making me re-evaluate what I really want in life.”

“To be liked?” Clark asks skeptically.

Lois screws up her face. “Maybe? I don’t know,” she sighs. “Doesn’t everyone want to be liked? Wanted?” She bites her lip. 

Moving more carefully this time, Clark gets to his feet. “I think it depends,” he says, avoiding her gaze. “I think people want to be liked – to be wanted – for who they actually are, not for the face they present to the world.”

Lois frowns. “But can you actually know someone on that level?”

“I’d like to think so,” Clark says, the faintest note of wistfulness in his voice.

“Does anyone know you like that?” Lois scrunches her nose as she burrows further into her couch. God, she’s tired. “I don’t think I do.” Admitting it hurts more than she expected it to. Before, she thought she had a pretty good grasp on Clark Kent, investigative reporter and her favorite second banana.

“My parents,” Clark says at once. He pauses. “And I think you and I could get there. Someday.” He clears his throat. “If you, um, wanted that.”

Lois throws back the rest of her water. “Yeah, sure, why not,” she says, eyes closed as she swallows. When she opens them, she can see clear as day that her blase attitude hasn’t fooled him in the slightest. He's such a sap. “Hey, if you’re adopted – are you even from Kansas?” She lets out a theatrical gasp. “Will I have to give up all the hicksville jokes?”

“I’m pretty sure you’d still call me a hayseed if I was actually born in Gotham,” Clark says with a smile as he tugs her to her feet. “C’mon, I can see you falling asleep.”

Lois lets him. “Please tell me you’re not from Gotham. I can’t – just no.”

“Lois,” Clark says, the tsk heavy in his voice. “My other best friend is from Gotham! It’s not that bad.”

Lois swats his shoulder. “I knew I wasn’t your real best friend! Who is it? I didn’t know you associated with anyone from that ugly trash pile of a city.”

Clark laughs. “His name is Bruce.”

Lois totters down the hallway to her bedroom with Clark trailing after her, one arm out to catch her if she stumbled, the other holding her empty glass of water. “That’s a stupid name. What’s his full name?”

“So you can stalk him?” Clark lets her flop onto her bed as he heads to her en suite bathroom.

“Maybe,” Lois grumbles into her pillow. Everything has taken on a lovely fuzzy quality, but maybe that’s her duvet taking up half her field of vision.

Clark’s head pops out from behind the door frame. “His name is Bruce Wayne.”

“Clark Kent, you liar.” She points a wobbly finger in his direction. “You do not know Bruce Wayne.”

Clark shrugs. “I’m just full of surprises tonight, apparently.”

“Wait – you’re serious?” Lois pushes herself up into a sitting position. If Clark – her partner of half a decade – has been sitting on the fact that he is on first name terms with the richest man on the east coast, Lois is going to strangle him once she finds heels tall enough.

“If you ask him, we are, at most, distant acquaintances,” Clark says with a smile as he gently pushes her back down in bed and sets the now-full water glass on her nightstand. “So don’t worry – nobody is going to challenge you for the official position of my best friend, except maybe Jimmy.”

Lois yawns. “I could take on Jimmy. He’s got twiggy arms.”

Clark snorts. “Do not fight Jimmy.”

She closes her eyes. “I’m a great fighter.”

“I'm pretty sure the entire bullpen knows that.” Clark chuckles, his footsteps retreating to the door. “I’ll be in the guest bedroom if you need me.”

Lois inhales a loud breath. “Clark?”

“Yeah?”

“Thanks,” she blearily opens her eyes, “for… everything. You know you’re my best friend, right?”

“Yeah, I know,” Clark says. “Get some sleep. Sober up. I’m sure you’ll be horrifically ashamed of all of this oversharing tomorrow.”

“Probably,” she agrees as she snuggles deeper into her pillow. “’Night.”

“Good night, Lois.”

Part II here!

[biancasaidstfu]

I work in media and I feel like I need to make people aware of how the sausage is made now, so to speak.

Since the pandemic and even before, a lot of even the formerly "serious" publications that are out there have been operating with skeleton crews and a constant churn of interns or new grads who get fired within months because they can't write a coherent sentence and are just looking to get their foot in the door since they don't have any work experience. I'm not shading Gen Z but a lot of them have been failed by the education system and they aren't prepared for the workplace.

In response to this situation, outlets have been relying heavily on AI to put together articles at the speed at which they need to be put out to ride SM trends. Human staff can't keep up with it. Not only that, but a lot of what you're seeing is created and posted by outsourced labor in low-income countries and people who have productivity quotas, so they can't afford to care about accuracy, just clicks. This is all click-farming; no research or effort has gone into it. In fact, inaccuracies can drive engagement in the form of comments "correcting" the article and rage-reposting on SM.

Please, everyone, practice media literacy. Someone saw Nic trend on SM and they're just hopping onto a trend. They physically don't care about any of it because most of it is just machines talking to each other. We're literally living in a post-truth world, we're just not fully aware of it yet. Protect your sanity and use your own brains because it's all you've got anymore, really.

This is a great read, thank you anon.

Please keep in mind we are in the age of views. Money generated from our engagement is what's making the world go round.

Be thoughtful about who you give your attention to.

[platonicyanderereverie]

I dunno if you do doubles but if you do then awesome, if you don't then don't worry about it or you can just pick one character!

But what about Yandere platonic Dottore and Pantalone as a tweenager(11-13) reader and they're like readers dads even though reader wants nothing to do them I was thinking letter A, B, C, E, G, H, J, M, O, P, R, S, T, U V, W, AND Z! I know this is alot but please choose which ones you want to do if these are too much, all I ask is that maybe you especially Z, S, W, T, O, J, H, F, D, OR C! Again pick at which ever one you want!! Thank you!!

( I luv your platonic yandere writing!!!)

Thank you for your request‼️ I tried my best to do the main ones you wanted <3 I really hope you like em

Platonic yandere Dottore and Pantalone with a tween reader using the yandere alphabet!!

[Warnings!: usual possessive behaviour, implied kidnapping, isolation and so on]

Zenith

(Would they ever break their darling?)

Chances are, no. Dottore is very calculated with his advances and actions, and Pantalone tries to avoid actively placing you in situations that could make you crumble. However, it's not entirely impossible for their child to snap under the pressure, and both of them would be highly displeased if that happened. They would immediately swoop in, attempting to piece you back together.

Stigma

(What brought about this side of them (childhood, curiosity, etc)?)

For Pantalone, his childhood was filled with troubles. Born poor, he always felt beneath everyone else, constantly forced to look at things he wished he had from afar. He never wants that for you; he wants to give you the childhood he wished he had, even if he becomes overbearing in the process.

Dottore, on the other hand, experienced significant mental isolation. Driven by an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, he strives to understand everything there is to know. You seem like a book with endless pages to study, each one holding possibilities that he craves to uncover. His obsession drives him to push you onto the same page as him, fueling his desire for intellectual satisfaction.

Wit's End

(Would they ever hurt their darling?)

The short answer is yes, but it would be in calculated, mentally focused strides. If you've been particularly disobedient, expect isolation, loss of privileges, and an intense struggle to regain the love they once showered on you freely. You might even find yourself wrapped up in a few of the doctor's "tests." Nothing serious, but certainly enough to leave a lasting impression.

Tears

(How do they feel about seeing their darling scream, cry, and/or isolate themselves?)

Pantalone would be the first to lean forward and wipe your tears. He hates seeing you upset, he truly does, but if it’s due to a punishment, he'll softly coo, reassuring you that it’s all necessary. Meanwhile, the doctor might run a hand through your hair in a slightly chastising manner.

Screaming or throwing a tantrum would earn you disappointed looks from both of them. They’d regard you as a child throwing a fit over not getting what you want. Dottore would shake his head, speaking in a cool, calm tone to remind you that such behavior is unfavorable. Pantalone might attempt to soothe you with promises or small gifts if nothing else seems to work.

Isolating yourself would prove difficult, as they’d quickly sense your withdrawal. Once they do, they’d reel you back in for a lecture and enforce some "mandatory family time."

Oppression

(How many rights would they take away from their darling?)

Most likely, they'd control nearly every aspect of your schedule. Pantalone would ensure it’s filled with classes and tutors, while Dottore would require time in his lab. You wouldn’t be making any significant decisions on your own either, as they consider you too naïve and impulsive. Despite this, they still expect a certain level of engagement and respect from you, even if you’re resistant.

Jealousy

(Do they get jealous? Do they lash out or find a way to cope?)

Jealousy is an interesting concept when it comes to your fathers. Pantalone is confident and self assured in his status, knowing no one else could give you everything he can. No one else would sacrifice as much as he would for you, even if you don’t recognize it. If someone tries to interfere, he has the power to make sure they can’t.

Dottore, however, would be fascinated by jealousy itself, viewing it as a curious feeling. Understanding its implications, he deals with it by turning it into a personal experiment. He identifies the cause of the itch in the back of his mind and manipulates situations so that you seek him out, he won't fetch you himself, oh no, you will be the one cementing your dependence on him. He won't stop until he’s fully satisfied with the results.

Hell

(What would be their darling’s worst experience with them?)

Once, you managed to slip away from the manor, somehow finding yourself wandering the streets, finally tasting freedom and reveling in spite.

However, I hope your short loved feedom was worth it. Upon your inevitable return (having been dragged back by the agents), you faced endless berating from Pantalone and a slew of unpleasant new tasks from Dottore, not to mention an extended session in his lab. Anything that entertained you was confiscated, and any servant you liked was dismissed. And god forbid If one of them had assisted your escape, the punishment would be even harsher. You were met with cold discipline, leaving you powerless to change the outcome. Days seemed to blur, each one more isolating than the last. Should you resist further, you might find yourself bedridden, unwell due to "mysterious circumstances."

Darling

(Aside from abduction, would they do anything against their darling’s will?)

Short answer, yes. For one, they expect you to stay with them, fulfilling their aspirations for you. To them, it’s simply that you can't see what’s best for you yet. Resistance is futile; listening to them would make things so much easier. Furthermore, you don’t have a say in spending time with them...it’s simply not optional.

Cruelty

(How would they treat their darling once abducted? Would they mock them?)

Pantalone would present the situation as a luxurious arrangement, framing it not as a victory for himself but rather as the natural, ideal state of things. He’d act as though everything is perfectly fine, assuring you that all you need to do is stick with family.

Dottore, however, would be slightly more biting. He wouldn’t mock you outright, but his words would carry a tone of condescension. He’d calmly lay out the terms of your new reality, driving home just how powerless you are, making sure you fully understand the situation.

□●■□●■□●■

(Original request forum)

[zegrasdrysdale]

[ sneaking into vegas ] j. drysdale

part one !

paring : Jamie Drysdale x fem!!reader

summary : (Y/N) flies into Vegas to surprise Jamie for his first NHL game in nearly a year

warning(s) : none

author's note : listen, this was supposed to be a little thing but it turned out to be over 2k words so … i got a little carried away

༺═──────────────═༻

She was supposed to be across the country in New York, but when her boyfriend told her that he was going to be playing in his first NHL game since he got hurt last year, she couldn't resist getting on a plane to go watch him.

Especially after she saw who Anaheim was going to be playing for their season opener. (Y/N) knew that she needed to be in Vegas for that game. Even if that meant leaving New York a week early.

Jamie doesn't know she's coming. As a matter of fact, she tells him that she's going to be in her temporary office catching up on some work all day so he doesn't suspect anything when she doesn't reply to him all day because she has an eight-hour travel day ahead of her.

Her flight leaves at nine in the morning and she won't be getting into Vegas until two in the afternoon pacific time. That leaves her nearly five hours to check into the hotel that the Ducks are staying in while they're in Vegas for the game, get something to eat, and head to the arena without alerting Jamie to where she is.

Should be easy since she knows that Jamie will be at morning skate from eleven until two then will take a nap and eat before he heads to the arena at five. He has things that will keep him busy so she can sneak into Vegas.

On the contrary, Trevor knows that she's coming in and has a whole plan to keep Jamie busy if he decides not to take a nap after morning skate. They've been working together for the past few days so make sure the surprise goes smoothly. He's supposed to pick her up from the airport as soon as he's done practice.

(Y/N) has never watched Jamie play a game of NHL hockey. They met after he got hurt last October and started dating in February. She's very excited to be in the arena for his first regular season game back from injury. She doesn't care if she's the only Ducks fan in the place. She'll be making sure she cheers loudly for Jamie and his teammates.

At two on the dot, the plane lanes at Harry Reid International Airport. When (Y/N) gets off the plane a few minutes later, she texts Trevor and lets him know that her flight has landed. He replies and says that he's waiting for her in his rental whenever she grabs her suitcase from baggage claim.

A few notifications come through while she's waiting for her bags. All from Jamie throughout the morning.

j ♡ - 10:04 am hope you have a good day at work. will miss you. hope you can catch the game tonight if you aren't working super late

j ♡ - 10:49 am forgot to say that i love you so ... i love you 🩷 gotta go to morning skate so talk to you later

j ♡ - 2.08 pm z ditched me if you're not busy for a short call. i don't think i'll be able to sleep before the game so call me if you have a few minutes

She looks at Trevor and asks, "Do you think he'll be suspicious if I call him really quick? I think he has some pre-game nerves and I told him I'd only work until dinnertime, which is what time it is in New York."

"I don't think so," Trevor replies. "It'll be like you're calling him on your way back from work. Just don't get all cute and everything. The two of you make me sick when you get all lovey-dovey with each other. I already hear it from Jamie every day."

(Y/N) sticks her tongue out at Trevor as she clicks 'call' on Jamie's contact. Trevor lowers the music so she can talk on the phone.

It rings three times before Jamie picks up. "Hi, baby," he breathes out when he answers the phone. "I've been needing to hear your voice."

"Hi, Jamie baby," (Y/N) replies. Jamie's nickname causes Trevor to make a face as he drives. She swats at his shoulder. "How was morning skate? You just got done a little bit ago, right?"

"Yeah," Jamie says. "It went good. I think it went well. I feel pretty good about playing tonight, minus the fact that we're playing Vegas and I got hurt playing against them last year. I'm just nervous about playing them after last year."

She frowns. "Hey, you'll be okay," she assures him. "You're going to play so well tonight. I know you will. No matter what happens tonight, I'm proud of you. I'm excited for you to get back on the ice, and I know your teammates are too. I'm pretty sure Z has missed having you on the ice with him."

"I've missed being on the ice with them, but what if I do something wrong?" Jamie questions. "What if I give up the puck and they score on the giveaway? What if I fall and land on my shoulder wrong? What if-"

"Jamie, stop," (Y/N) interrupts. "None of that is going to happen, okay? Not intentionally. You're working yourself up and you shouldn't be because this is what you're good at. You wouldn't be in the NHL if you weren't good at hockey, baby. There's a reason you're playing for Anaheim at the professional level. Do what you do best tonight. Your teammates are there to pick you up if you need them to until you get comfortable. Stop freaking yourself out."

They pull up to the hotel and Trevor parks his rental away from the main entrance so none of the Ducks players see (Y/N) and report to Jamie that his girlfriend is at the hotel. "You're right," Jamie sighs. "I'm sorry to bother you with this while you're at work."

"I'm actually on my way back to the apartment," (Y/N) tells him. "But even if I was still at work, bother me with this any time. I'll never be mad if you want me to call you because you're nervous for a game."

"I don't deserve you, (Y/N)," Jamie says. "I truly don't. I love you so much."

The comment brings a smile to her lips. "I love you more," she replies. "I'm pulling into the parking lot now so I'll talk to you later. Maybe you can get Z to bring you something to eat if you can't sleep."

Jamie laughs and says, "If I bug him enough then he'll definitely bring me food. I'll let you go though, get settled in for the night. I'll talk to you after the game."

"Call me after," she tells him. "I don't care that it'll be after one in the morning. Call me and tell me all about the game. I'll want to hear all about it and how it went."

"I will," Jamie replies. "I love you."

"I love you too."

The line goes dead after that and (Y/N) realizes that she has a small smile on her lips. He won't have to call her after the game. She'll be waiting outside the locker room when he gets done showering and getting dressed after the game.

Trevor gets out of the car and mumbles, "The two of you make me sick." She laughs and gets out of the car after him.

He grabs her suitcase from the trunk and hands it over to her when it's on the ground. With Trevor following close behind, (Y/N) walks into the hotel. She checks into the room that she'll only be in for about four hours total because Jamie is going to make sure they're together that night, and she doesn't want him to kick Trevor out of the room.

It’s been a few weeks since they’ve seen each other so she wanted to make sure there was a room they could stay in together.

Trevor walks her to her room, which is a floor below the Ducks’ rooms. “We’re in 504,” he tells her. He hands her the extra key to his and Jamie’s room while she hands him the extra key to her room. “I’ll let you know if he sleeps, which I doubt but I’ll let you know.”

“Make sure he stays calm and remind him that he knows what he’s doing,” (Y/N) tells him. “Don’t let him freak himself out.”

“I’ll just distract him,” Trevor replies. “With food or with an activity that he likes to do. Maybe I’ll take him to a casino for a bit, I don’t know. I’ve got him though. Until you take over after the game.”

She nods and Trevor walks up to his and Jamie’s room. With a sigh, she opens the door and lets herself into the room.

Her suitcase with the jersey she’s wearing to the game is left right by the door and she goes right to the bed. She sets an alarm for five so she wakes up after the Ducks leave for the arena. She’ll leave a half an hour later so she doesn’t run into Jamie when he’s on his way out the door.

After a long day of traveling for the surprise tonight, (Y/N) is fast asleep almost right after she puts her phone on the table to charge.

༺═──────────────═༻

T-Mobile Arena is one of the nicest arenas that (Y/N) has ever gone to. Most of the people are nice. She gets a few looks from Golden Knights fans because she’s in the Drysdale jersey that Jamie gave to her. She loves the jersey, and she promised him that she’d wear it to the first game he plays in after his injury.

That game is tonight.

She makes her way down to her seat with the other Duck wives and girlfriends, and they’re all excited to see her. Some of them meet her for the first time, but they’re all super nice.

The puck drops a little after seven, and (Y/N) spots number 6 almost immediately. He glides around the ice like he’s flying, and she’s mesmerized by it.

(Y/N) has watched practices and Jamie work with Trevor throughout the past few months while he recovered from his injury. That is nothing compared to what she’s watching right now.

Vegas gets on the board first with two seconds left in the first period, and the fans erupt around her and the other wives and girlfriends.

Then they score again with five minutes left in the second period.

Then they score again six minutes into the third period. It’s not looking very good for the Ducks at this point. (Y/N) finds herself frowning because she knows that they wanted to be a better team this season.

About thirty seconds later, the Ducks get themselves on the board with a goal from Mason. Their little group celebrates the goal.

(Y/N) knows that Jamie had the puck before Mason put it in the net. His first point in over a year in his first game back from injury. It causes her to scream a little louder in celebration. Her mouth hurts from smiling. She swears the smile doesn’t drop until the final horn blares through the arena, signaling a 4-1 Vegas win.

Not the best first game, but it’s only game one of 82.

After the game, (Y/N) finds her way down to the locker room where the Ducks are. She leans against the wall right outside and waits.

She can hear Greg Cronin on the other side of the door talking to his team about the game. She didn’t think they did terrible, but they’re in there getting lectured like they gave up ten goals.

Yeah, Jamie might be really excited to see (Y/N) when he leaves the locker room. Especially after getting a long lecture from his coach.

He played a good game, and she’s proud of him. She’s happy that she decided to hop on a plane and come out to Vegas to watch Jamie play. She’ll be even happier when he comes out of that locker room in a little bit.

Cronin leaves the room with a heavy sigh and doesn’t even acknowledge (Y/N) standing in the hallway. She doesn’t even care.

A few minutes after Cronin leaves, Trevor sticks his head out into the hallway. “He’ll be right out,” he tells her. “He’s hitting the showers really quick before he leaves. I don’t think he’s in a good mood but when he sees you, that’ll change.”

She nods and Trevor disappears back into the room.

Just to mess with Jamie a bit, she takes a picture on her Instagram story of the giant Vegas logo and geotags T-Mobile Arena. Jamie has her notifications on so he’ll see that as soon as he checks his phone.

Ten minutes pass and (Y/N) is getting antsy. She knows that he doesn’t take very long showers so he’ll be coming out of that locker room any minute.

Several Ducks leave and greet her as they pass while she waits for Jamie. Troy pops his head back into the locker room when he sees her and says, “Hey, Jimmy. Someone’s here to see you.”

“Who?”

“You’ll see.”

(Y/N) shoots Troy a smile as he walks down the hall to get on the bus.

The door opens and a very confused Jamie Drysdale walks out of the locker room. His eyes land on (Y/N) and he runs up to her. She smiles as Jamie hugs her around her torso and lifts her off her feet.

She giggles and wraps herself around Jamie. Her legs are around his waist and her arms are around his neck. He buries his face into her neck and she puts her nose in his wet hair.

“When did you-”

“Earlier today,” she says into his hair. “Worked with Z to make sure you didn’t see me when I got in. When I saw you were playing Vegas in your first regular season game back after injury, I had to come out and watch.”

Jamie sets her down but doesn’t let her go. She looks up at him and he looks genuinely surprised to see her. Good to know Trevor didn’t blab and ruin the surprise.

“I can’t believe you’re here in Vegas,” Jamie breathes out. “You saw my assist in person?”

She smiles and nods. “I saw your assist in person,” she replies. “I’m very proud of you, Jamie baby. First point in a while. I told you that you had nothing to freak out about. You’re a talented player. I had no doubt that you would be amazing tonight. Maybe even pick up a point or two.”

The smile that Jamie gives her makes her heart flutter. This is the smile she has missed and wanted to see after this game ended no matter the result.

Jamie pulls her against him by her waist and presses a feather soft kiss against her lips. “All I could think about after that assist was how I wish you were here to see it,” he admits to her. “You were actually here to see it.”

“Mhm,” she hums. “I made the right choice. I’ve really missed you. I wanted to surprise you today.”

“Consider me surprised.”

She gets on her toes and instigates a deeper, more frantic kiss when she presses her lips to his. She kisses him the way she’s wanted to kiss him in the three weeks since they last saw each other.

Her fingers curl into the hair on the back of his neck, not caring that it’s wet. Jamie has a grip of his jersey on her waist that’s keeping her from going anywhere. As if she would go anywhere right now.

This is where she wants to be. She doesn’t want to go anywhere else.

“Ew, can’t the two of you wait until we’re back at the hotel to suck faces?” Trevor voice asks. It pulls them apart. “You’re away from each other for a few weeks and all of a sudden you’re both a fan of PDA. It’s gross.”

Jamie turns his head and (Y/N) looks over his shoulder to see both Trevor and Mason standing in front of the locker room door. “It’s not my fault you have no one to suck faces with, Z,” Jamie retorts. “Imagine being across the country from your girlfriend then tell me you wouldn’t suddenly be a fan of PDA.”

She buries her face in Jamie’s shoulder to hide a smile. Trevor rolls his eyes and says, “You’re sleeping in her room tonight. I am not giving up ours.”

“Don’t worry,” Jamie says. “I was already planning on it.” He turns his attention back to (Y/N). “I wouldn’t want my teammates to hear the things that I’m going to do to (Y/N) tonight.”

Yeah, sneaking into Vegas was the best idea she’s ever had.

༺═──────────────═༻

MASTERLIST | part two

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