#Alar skin

[dark-moonlust]

Bound by the Rose Mark

This commission is owned by Kate Hart. As the original writer, I strictly forbid any form of reproduction, replication, or translation of my stories without my explicit��consent.

Pairing: beast oc (Alaric) x f!reader

Summary: This is a story with Beauty and the Beast vibes. You live in a grand castle with a beast named Alaric. One day, you accidentally touch him and a glowing rose tattoo appears on your skin. Alaric explains that the tattoo is a sign of a curse that binds the two of you together. You can't get more than a few steps away from him without feeling pain and arousal. Forced to stay close, you both succumb to your feelings and the deep connection between you.

Warnings: 18+, mid-eighteenth century story, true love curse, beauty and the beast vibes, magic tattoo bonding, virgin reader, oral (fem receiving), foreplay and stimulation, p in v sex, big 🍆, belly bulge, knotting, lots of 💦.

I completely forgot to post this commission! Enjoy!!

Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, France - 1750

“Make it stop!” you groaned, wide eyes on the Beast, who stood calmly by the fire, his large, furred form casting long shadows over the walls. “Please, just… make it stop!”

“I cannot do that.” Came his voice, steady and infuriatingly husky.

The moonlight shone through the castle's grand windows, pouring glittering beams across your body as you paced back and forth, the tap of your boots echoing on the sleek floor. Your fingers moved nervously against the mark on your wrist, the delicate rose pattern twisting and developing, shimmering softly against your skin. With each passing second, the flower vines extended further up your arm, emitting a sweet warmth.

It all began a year ago with a professional agreement. The Beast was Lord of the Castle and needed someone to govern it. You were that person. You lived in his huge fortress and worked as his chamberlain. But what began as a rigid work agreement quickly turned into closeness. 

In the past months, you’d grown used to his company, you were after all, alone in a huge castle with no one but a few servants to talk. He’d gifted you his enormous library, a beautiful haven of literature. He also spent time with you every day, taking you on walks to the gardens, organizing big dinners, music nights, and theatrical nights. You’d been foolish to allow yourself to get comfortable, to hover close enough and be tempted to touch him.

But his fur had appeared so silky and inviting. What was one touch?

You'd succumbed to the temptation and touched him, curved your small palm over his massive arm. 

A moment later, all order unraveled. 

A weird tingling sensation had begun to emerge from your wrist, and as you looked down, a red rose began to light softly, its delicate petals winding up your wrist, its thorny vines snaking out, tracing your skin with intricate detail. The tattoo was enchanted and even now— it continued to spread on your arm.

Oh, how foolish and naive you had been! To approach him so carelessly, hovering so close that his mere presence seemed to draw you in. It was foolish to give in to your curiosity, reaching out to touch him despite the warnings. And now, this—this thing—was strangely connecting you to him in ways you couldn't fathom.

The Beast—no, Alaric, as he was once known—kept staring at you like an idiot, his sharp features unreadable. He didn’t even look troubled. Why would he be? For once, he wasn’t the one in trouble. He rather enjoyed it, wicked Frenchman that he was. Yet as you glanced at him, you felt another spark, a liquid warmth in your belly. His form, massive and imposing, stood out against the moonlight, making the entire hall feel smaller, more intimate.

Alaric had been cursed long long ago, cursed to find misery, coldness and no love. His face was no longer that of a beautiful Prince but of a beast with horns, sharp teeth and lion’s mane. He was massive and muscled, with strong legs and a wolf-like tail. His clothing was still royal, tailored to fit his form. He looked as elegant and well-groomed as possible.  

With an exasperated groan, you stroked your wrist harder, the glow intensifying with each stroke of your fingers. "Damn! Why doesn't it stop?! Please, stop it!"

He spoke with a long sigh, his voice low and rumbling. "I told you I cannot do that."

"You can't or you won't?"

"It's the mark of the curse…" His glance swept across your wrist. "There is no undoing it."

Your heart sunk at his words. You were aware of his curse but had no idea it could be transmitted through touch. Damnation! And damn the warmth of the mark, affecting your whole body. It felt warm and wet between your thighs as if a fire was spreading beneath your skin, connecting you to him. Every pulse of fire reminded you of your error.

“I… I didn’t ask for this!” you protested, rubbing at the mark as if you could wipe it away with sheer willpower. “I was just—just curious! I did not want to be cursed.”

“You touched me, therefore now you will pay. You are bound to me.”

You shot him a sharp look, waving your pulsing wrist in the air. “You could have warned me that I’d get cursed just by touching you!”

He chuckled, the sound deep and rich. “But I did warn you not to touch me, didn’t I? You were simply too curious.”

“I thought you were goading me, challenging me! You didn’t mention the part where I’d be magically tethered to you like a pet on a leash,” you snapped despite the lingering warmth in your chest. 

“You are wild and untamed. Always speaking back to me, always doing as you please. It’s your fault, little one.”

“Still…” you muttered, your voice barely above a whisper. “A little heads-up would’ve been nice.”

“Where would the fun in that be?”

“Oh, yes, this is so hilarious. I’m cursed with a pulsing tattoo— it glows like a freaking beacon by the way—and you’re not in the least concerned.”

“The mark will stop glowing once you accept it.”

“I’ll never accept it!”

Alaric sighed. “The curse cast upon me ensured I would never be loved. I was cursed to live as a beast, hated and feared... alone."

You gazed at him, the weight of his words hurting your heart. His formidable, imposing frame suddenly appeared fragile.

“However,” he continued, “there is a way… for the curse to wane. Not to break it entirely, but weaken its grasp. The curse weakens—forever— when I am touched by someone who genuinely loves me.”

“So… this mark…”

Alaric nodded. “It means you are the one fated to love me. And because of that, the curse has loosened its grip on me. Though I can never return to the man I once was, I can have love.”

Your eyes welled with emotion, but you refused to cry in front of him. “So… this is permanent?" 

Alaric hummed and stepped close, his towering frame suddenly feeling much too close. “I’m sorry… but you are now bonded to me, my thorny rose,” he purred. “Alas, you could have worse company, no? And the mark… I think it’s quite beautiful.”

You stared at him in disbelief. “Beautiful? It’s so big and so… damn hot!”

“That temper of yours…” he sighed softly, in a way a beast like him never would. “Of course it makes you hot. The closer we are, the more it will affect you. It’s a sign that our bond is… flourishing.”

You blinked, rubbing your thighs together at the effect of his deep voice, presence and scent. “Flourishing? My wrist isn’t a garden, Alaric. This is my skin. And I assure you, it’s not supposed to glow.”

“We are connected. The curse… it has tied our fates together. The more we fight it— both of us— the more painful it will become."

You swallowed hard. “And if I… don’t fight it? Will it stop and leave my skin?”

“No. Never, little one. The mark will just settle there, binding you to me, fully and irrevocably. But… I’m afraid we cannot stray far from one another without feeling pain.”

“You’re enjoying this, aren’t you?”

His lips curled, showing just the barest flash of sharp teeth. “Immensely.”

Stupefied, you spun around, intending to get some fresh air but the moment you moved away, a sudden, scorching pain went through your chest, making you gasp. He was there instantly, steadying you with a large, clawed hand. You curled into his body, sighing pleasantly at the feel of his fur against your skin. It felt so good, warm and inviting, his musky scent tantalizing your senses. You hadn’t realized it but your hands were buried in his forearms, holding him to you.

“Foolish one,” he muttered, his breath warm against your temples. “What did I just tell you?”

“Alaric…” you sighed, meeting his eyes with reluctant acceptance. “Make it stop, please, make this ache go away.”

A low chuckle escaped him as he rubbed your wrist, feeling the warmth pulsating beneath your skin and tracing the delicate rose mark. The rose's delicate vines had wrapped themselves around your forearm, growing faintly. You bit back a moan, despite everything, you felt the pull—the odd bond that bound you to him, pulling you nearer to him with each breath.

“Ah, yes… it can be intense. Every step you take away from me will only bring more pain, more desire pooling deep inside.”

“Deep inside?”

Alaric raised a brow, a glint in his eyes. “Hmm, deep inside your cunt. I can scent your sweet arousal. Always could scent your need for me.”

You looked away. His words made you wet. Tenderly, he turned your face back to him. There was no hiding your blush or emotions.

“The curse bound us together. Two halves meant to be one. And if we give in…” he trailed off, his huge palm framing your face. “Would it be that bad?”

The tension in the room shifted as he stood there, with you in his arms, the strange pull between you palpable. Were you truly the one for him? Your heart stuttered. The idea of being physically and emotionally bound to Alaric—a beast of both grace and power —was captivating.

And the more you thought about it, the more your heart and body betrayed you. Oh dear… Yes, you wanted him. You wanted him with every ounce of your soul. Right on cue, the tattoo—its once glowing petals and vines now settled into a permanent black design that curled up your forearm. Becoming a part of you.

You didn’t resist when Alaric scooped you up, carrying you through hallways to his private chamber— a huge, opulent bedroom with polished wood and velvet furnishings, tapestries hanging on the walls, and a stone fireplace crackling in the corner. The bed was the largest piece of furniture in the room; it had a dark purple canopy covered in silk and velvet covers making it appear incredibly soft and inviting.

Alaric lowered you on the plush bedding and he came to rest beside you, his body half-looming over you, massive yet tender and protective. His eyes, golden and intense, settled on you then down to the rose mark. His fingers, clawed but surprisingly gentle, traced the rose before his tongue brushed a petal of the tattoo, feather-light, sending a shiver of electricity racing up your spine.

You watched, breathless, as he nuzzled and licked every petal, every vine, every thorn, his muzzle soft against your skin. The heat of his breath warmed you as he worked his way up your forearm, his mouth following the intricate lines of the rose, savoring every inch of it. With each kiss, your pulse quickened, your body shamelessly hot, your pussy dripping slick.

“Alaric…” you said in a sultry voice you could hardly recognize.

“Easy. We’ll take it slow, my thorny rose.”

As he said that, his lips hovered just inches from your collarbone. His tongue darted out, tracing the delicate indentation at the base of your neck. A sweet gasp escaped you as he licked a slow, tortuous trail down the round tops of your breasts, pulled up by your corset and your bodice. The laces on your bodice came undone, the corset disposed of in seconds as he skillfully drew the fabric down your waist, exposing your breasts to the cool air and his hungry gaze.

Your body arched closer to his, your nipples hardening into tight, aching buds. His eyes locked onto yours before he bent down and let his tongue trace the underside of each mound. You whined, burning so fiercely with desire as he licked the around your areolas. Teasing and exploring. Never quite getting to your sensitive nipples.

“Alaric,” you warned, thrusting your chest to his mouth.

“How I love it when you call my name.”

And with that, he licked one tiny bud, causing your body to shiver with want. Your hands gripped his horns, keeping him in place as he lapped one nipple, sucking wetly, his saliva and scent mingling on your skin. He did the same with the other nipple, and your body melted into his, hips arching up, breasts thrust sweetly into his lips.

You were lost in passion and he was only touching you.

You craved more. You wanted to touch, feel, and own every part of him.

Boldly, your hands slid up to his jacket, tugging at the heavy fabric, feeling its weight between your fingertips. You dragged his jacket away and he helped you remove it along with his shirt, without quite taking his tongue and hands off your breasts. Furry broad shoulders were revealed and a powerful, sculpted chest and stomach.

Large hands encompassed your tits as he growled softly and angled his head, his tongue trailing the curve of your neck. His fingers pinched your nipples, careful of his claws. Your breath hitched and you tilted your head back, offering him more.

“Oh god… yesss,” you whispered, your voice trembling.

Blindly, you brought his mouth to you, needing to feel his kiss. But he hesitated, pulling back slightly. His golden eyes met yours, darkened with desire but shadowed with worry.

“I’m afraid… of hurting you,” he drawled. “I have no lips and my teeth… they’re sharp. I don’t want to—”

“Use your tongue,” you whispered, breathless, gone was the shyness in you. “Please.”

For a moment, he seemed to hesitate, but then, as though unable to resist any longer, he surged forward. His mouth opened, and his tongue, hot and insistent, swept across your lips before plunging deeply. Deeper still. He tasted you, swallowed your breaths, and pressed his moist and burning tongue against yours, sending sparks of ecstasy shooting through you with each stroke. You gasped into his mouth, the sound drowned out by the sheer intensity of the kiss, your hands grabbing his shoulders.

The sound of fabric tearing and garments hitting the floor was the only indication of what was to come.

The flickering light in the room danced across your flesh, both naked and unashamed. His body enveloped yours, his weight pressing down on you, his thighs spreading your legs apart. The sheer size of him caused your pussy to clench. His shaft was a massive veined rod of flesh, long and thick, with a knot at the base. His cock throbbed and leaked moisture, and his balls thick and heavy, hung like ripe fruit.

You couldn't help but reach out, a little bashful as your fingers stroked the silky warmth of his shaft. It was both firm and tender, as hot as touching a blazing flame. Alaric snarled and watched your small hands. You trailed the protruding veins and bulbous head all the way down to the bulging sac. He growled, his entire body tense.

“Such soft gentle touches. But I can’t—little one. I need to taste you, have you.”

You opened your mouth to protest but whined instead when his tongue licked the delicate folds of your pussy. Your body ignited, waves of ecstasy crashing over you. Spine arching, you opened your legs obscenely wide, his head buried in between, wet tongue consuming your depths. He thrust his appendage inside, snarling primitively, and you sighed delightfully, your cunt pressing against his mouth as you shut your eyes tightly and surrendered to the passion.

“Mmmmm, so breathtaking,” he drawled, his tongue gracing your cunt. “I love the rose mark on your skin but even more so the petals on your wet cunt… so lovely and wet. I love to tease and lick them.”

Eyes holding your own, he hooked his large hands around your thighs, bringing them around his furred torso. His dick, massive and twitching, stroked against the wet petals of your cunt. He lubricated himself; you were soaked and ready to receive him. You wiggled and squirmed, impatiently attempting to guide him inside. Finally, with a gentle nudge, he growled, and the broad popped in.

Cupped your ass, he pushed inside, his cock gliding into you in one smooth thrust. You were incredibly tight, untouched and you gasped at the slight discomfort of the invasion. Despite his size, he somehow fit, his body seemingly designed to mold itself to yours. Your cunt was stretched wide, only his knot showing, and your belly bulged slightly, revealing the curve of his shaft beneath your skin.

Alaric caressed your belly lovingly as if marveling at the sight. “Yes, mine. It will be alright. I promise you. Does it hurt, little one?" 

You shook your head. “Not anymore. Please… hmmm—move. Need to feel you so desperately.”

“As you wish, my rose.”

His eyes never left yours as he thrust out of you, all the way out before slowly filling you up. This time there was no discomfort, only building intensity. His shaft slid in and out of you, the friction reigniting your desire. Your body flexed, your walls squeezing around his dick as he increased the pace. His thrusts became faster and more urgent, and you held him, rocking against him as his tongue stroked yours, making you dizzy with desire. 

Alaric was unstoppable, unrelenting and soon you were both shuddering in climax. He thrust one final time, bottomed out inside you till his swollen knot had popped inside. You whined, muscles contracting around him, your cunt snug around his knot, tying you together. You saw stars, thrashed wildly in little aftershocks as he released, a flood of cum filling you up. It didn’t help that he let out those delicious growls, tongue devouring your mouth.

Time seemed to stand still. You lay there, with him atop you, his dick still pulsing within you, his knot throbbing with a slow beat. It had been minutes and he was still spurting, though slower this time. You basked in the afterglow of your passion, felt so utterly at peace. Your bodies had become one and the tattoo on your wrist had never felt so right.

You were his, completely and utterly his.

“How are you feeling, my thorny rose?” he asked after he’d rolled over so you were draped over his chest, his knot still hard inside you.

“I feel loved,” you said as you rested over his chest feeling the steady thump of his heart beneath the fur. “I have never been kissed or loved by anyone like this before—have never felt anything like this before.”

“There is no going back now,” he said possessively. “You gave yourself to me. What I feel for you is raw, primal. It cannot be stopped or contained.”

You grinned. “So, what? I’m just stuck to you for the rest of eternity?”

“Figuratively and literally, I’m afraid,” he said, groaning at the feel of his knot tucked inside your warm cunt.

“You’re insufferable, you know that?”

Alaric’s eyes softened. “I will never be the charming Frenchman I once was. That man’s appearance is gone, replaced by this… beast.”

Smiling, you let your hand reach up to touch his face, tracing the firm lines of his jaw, his fur silky beneath your fingers. “The appearance might be gone,” you whispered, “but your heart isn’t. Besides, I think I’m past wishing for a handsome prince on a white horse. French or not.”

A low chuckle vibrated through his chest. “You’ve got a strange way of looking at things.”

“And you’ve got a strange way of doubting yourself,” you shot back teasingly. “You might not be the Prince you once were, but you’re more than enough for me.”

“Don’t you regret it?” he asked quietly after a few seconds. “Mating with me? That I’ll always be… like this?”

“Oh, I am surprised but this is so lovely,” you murmured, hands caressing his shoulder. “It’s so lovely because I always wanted you to be mine. I've always felt attracted to you but was frightened to admit it. I was also scared you would reject me heartlessly."

“Never. I could never do that.” He took your hand, kissed the rose tattoo on your wrist.

You smiled up at him, your heart swelling with love. “You are thoroughly mine, Alaric.“

For a moment, he stared at you and a soft, almost amused rumble escaped him. “You really are something,” he drawled, his free hand brushing the curve of your ass. “You’ve given me something I thought I could never have again." 

“I am yours,” you whispered. “I love you. All of you, my Beast.”

“I love you more, my thorny rose,” he said, his eyes dark with lust.

Smiling, you kissed and made love again —harder, hotter, and wetter.

THE END

[yovrnewromantic]

YOU BELONG TO ME

Pairings: Humanity-less stefan x reader

“Ugh, would you just leave me alone already?”

It’s bold of you to talk to him like that. Stupid too, especially in the state he’s in.

Your boyfriend was someone you would describe as a saint. Kind, cute, caring. But without his humanity, he was the opposite. He was hostile to everyone, getting on your nerves, especially when he shoved Matt to the floor when he tried to give you your homework back. He caused a scene in the hallway, practically threatening to rip out Matt’s throat if he so much as looked at you again.

Ripper Stefan was violent and territorial. You didn’t know what that meant for you.

Stefan’s hand found your shoulder, pulling you to turn and look at him. He lowered his head, making fiery eye contact to get his point across.

“Let’s get one thing straight, you belong to me.”

Stefan’s words send a chill down your spine, your soft, cuddle boyfriend, who used to sing along to You Belong With Me, is nowhere to be found and you’re left with this possessive shell of him.

Right now, he didn’t love you, he just knew that he wanted you and he was damn sure he was gonna have you.

“Don’t talk to me like that,” you sneer. “I don’t belong to you, Stefan, so do me a favor and fuck off.”

You felt brave turning away from him, as if your words would sink into him, maybe make him feel something and switch a flip inside of him. Your words did flip a switch in him, just not the one you were hoping for.

Stefan’s large hand grasps as your arm. With an easy, singular tug, he pulls you back under him, forcing your back into the lockers behind you. They slam against your back, the sound overpowering your scared gasp.

“No, no. Don’t talk to me like that.” Stefan tsks, caging you between his arms. “You’re not in control here.”

Left defenseless, your eyes shoot around the halls, looking for someone, anyone, but the hall is empty.

Harshly, Stefan grips your chin. “Don’t do that,” he demands, tauntingly. “It’s just me and you, baby.”

The pet name falls off his lip in mockery. It makes you feel pathetic and despite what you tell yourself, you’re afraid. Stefan grins. “I can hear your heart racing.”

“Maybe because I’m fucking terrified,” you snap, voice low, trying to calm yourself. Stefan reaches out for a lock of your hair, twisting it around his finger before he lets it fall back into place.

“Good,” he whispers, an inch from your face. His eyes flicker over your lips for a split second his eyes meet yours and his lips twitch into a smirk as he fits his face into the crook of your neck. He inhales softly, and your foot bounces against the floor anxiously.

Stefan kisses at your neck with fake innocence, moving up to your jaw before focusing on your pulse point. His teeth scrap against your skin gently. Against your will, your eyes gloss over. You whimper. “Please don’t.”

“Do what, sugar?” he asks, “Bite you?” He jumps toward with his last remark, relishing in how you flinch.

You nod, fearfully, looking down at the floor rather than your scary boyfriend.

Stefan’s head cocks to the side ever so lightly, his eyes searching for your own. When they meet, you can see the familiar lustful haze in your boyfriend’s green eyes, but they’re darker than usual. For reasons unbeknownst to you, you refused to look away. Glaring at him through your eyebrows, Stefan cherishes your attention, licking his lips with excitement.

“Mr. Salvatore,” a voice calls from behind Stefan’s mean silhouette. “I think it’s time you get to class.”

You sigh with relief, your head falling back against the locker. “Ric.”

Stefan hardly looks away from you, barely sparing Alaric a glance as he eagerly tries to engage your intense eye contact. “In a minute.”

“No, now.”

“We’ll finish this later,” Stefan whispers in your ear, nipping at it as a threat disguised with playfulness as he pulls away.

If looks could kill, Alaric would be dead the second Stefan turned away from you, bumping his shoulder as he headed to class.

“Thank you,” you gush, hiding your face in your hands, desperate not to cry.

Alaric looks at you with sympathy. “Get to class,” he says. “We’ll deal with him after.”

in my tvd phase 🫀🫀

unedited

[csuitebitches]

How to Wake Up Early

I always wanted to be one of those girls who would wake up early, go for a run and be super productive with their mornings. The issue is - i really love sleep. Every time i would start a routine, i would eventually fail. I would wake up to turn the alarm off, think to myself “5 mins more” and boom- it’s suddenly 8:30 am and i need to leave for work in less than 1 hour.

Two videos on YouTube really changed my mind. One was Andrew Huberman’s, and the other was Jihyo, a k-pop star.

I came across Andrew Huberman’s video about dopamine, and somehow, it helped me to understand why the difficulty waking up early is so important. Now I’m no expert of neuroscience, but let me explain to the best of my abilities.

Dopamine is essentially the build up to the reward; it is not the reward. It is the satisfaction and happiness you feel (when your body releases), after you have achieved something that was painful/ required you to struggle a bit. In order to receive this reward, you have to feel pain, because pain and satisfaction are directly related to each other. Satisfaction without pain is useless and does nothing for you essentially.

That got me wondering: for me, waking up early is difficult. It’s painful. I dont want to do it. But if I do it, its my first win of the day. It’s the first challenge I have overcome of that day, and I always do feel amazing after. The dopamine release after the struggle of waking up and winning the battle of not going back to sleep is definitely there. I feel more confident because a) I have done the “right” thing b) selfishly, i can do something so simple that a lot of people struggle with c) it weirdly makes me feel more confident and like I’m doing the first step of being an adult right.

Jihyo’s video was quite random - she did some show where it shows her daily life when she’s not working. Parts of it made me feel like she’s unable to just relax with herself (probably because her body and mind are so used to chaos, performing, her girl group living together for so many years) so she busies herself a lot. I took the positives from the video; she’s extremely disciplined which I admired, she gets her chores done, she’s good at ensuring that her space is truly her space.

So I decided to build a relatively foolproof routine; but mind you, it does require quite a bit of willpower.

I’ve developed a habit of waking of waking up at 5 am. I head straight for a 30-45 minute meditation and then at least an hour long workout. I stack my habits that way; right after meditation, I put on my running shoes. I used to really struggle with waking up, even if I had to wake up late. This is the strategy that worked me, see if it works for you.

1. Reset your space the night before

This makes you feel less stressed in the morning and also genuinely makes you feel like you have your shit together. Put your clothes away, keep your bag in its place, clean up your desk, reorganise your make up and skin care products. You’re going to go to sleep and wake up to a clean space.

Make sure you define both your bedtime and wake up time. My bedtime is 9:30 pm - so i manage my chores, reading, dinner, everything around that.

2. Early dinner

I’ve noticed that early dinners help me sleep better. I’ve built the habit of casually walking for 25-30 minutes post dinner (not right after eating, after about 15 mins). I’m not walking fast to a point where I’m sweating and puffing, I’m casually strolling outside. During this time, I don’t listen to music, interact with anyone or my phone. I use this time to connect with myself and think about whatever I feel like.

3. No devices before sleeping

I don’t want to stimulate myself before sleeping, so I prefer reading before bed. If you don’t like reading, you can instead do your skincare, maybe revise some physical study notes, etc.

4. Using Alarmy app

This app is torture and I swear by it. This little thing makes you a solve a challenge of your choice in order to make the alarm stop, like math problems, puzzles, etc. I chose 5 math problems.

5. Keep your phone across the room

Don’t charge it near your reach. Keep it as away from you as possible.

6. Stand for two minutes after shutting off the alarm

Don’t allow yourself to snooze, or go back to bed. This is the part that really requires you to tell yourself: “i am not going back to sleep. I’m going to wake up and do the things I have to do for my own benefit.” Remember - the states of heaven and hell are not outside of you, they’re inside you. They are mental states. You have to fight with your lazy demon and tell him/her/whoever that NO; we are NOT going back to bed.

I charge my phone across the room so that forces me to walk first thing in the morning. To stop myself from going back to sleep, after i have shut the alarm off, i just stand for 2 minutes. I dont sit, or go back to bed. I stand and tell myself, we’re doing this. We’re going to wake up and have an amazing day.

Your mind is like a child with tantrums and mood swings. Your rational self has to discipline your mind the way a parent would to a child.

7. Turn a small light on

Not something that is jarring or overwhelming, but enough to help you start waking up. I turn my phone’s flashlight on and keep it on my desk.

8. Be consistent, even on weekends

The biggest mistake you can make is not being consistent. Your body doesnt recognise weekends, your mind does. Your body doesn’t know that tomorrow is Monday, so its time to wake up early. By staying consistent (yes, I wake up at 5 am on weekends too), it allows my body to develop its own body clock and not wrecking the system I’ve kept in place.

What do I do if I have a late night?

It really depends. Let’s say I come home relatively early (+2 hours around my bedtime) around 11 pm, and im in bed by 11:30. I’ll wake up somewhere close to 5 am, like 6 am instead. The next day I ensure I’m in bed by the bedtime I’ve kept for myself and wake up at 5 am again.

If I come home really late, like 3 am - i keep my alarm exactly 8 hours from that time. I need to get sleep, but oversleeping is an issue and that wont allow me to wake up early the next day. I want to get enough sleep where im rested for the day, but not excessively. Unfortunately, sleeping so late would definitely mean that i wont be able to fall asleep at my dot 9:30 pm bedtime, but i turn the lights off and get ready to sleep by then anyway, and mentally prepare for my 5 am wake up call.

[a-writer-on-elm-street]

Can I please ask for a smut Damon request using this picture. Imagine distracting Damon whilst he’s concentrating on a phone call to ric and he punishes you for being a naughty girl for interrupting his call and pins you to the bed . Sorry I’m just a very naughty minded girl when it comes to Damon 😜

Apologise

a/n: thank you so much for the request i loved writing this!! hope you enjoy! <3 (also, i'm so sorry it took so long)

pairing: damon x fem!reader

warnings: smut, fingering, unprotected sex

word count: 644

You chuckle against Damon's skin, your lips dragging along his stomach as he squirms beneath you, his phone pressed to his ear.

You can hear Alaric's muffled voice coming through the speaker as you hook your fingers under the waistband of Damon's jeans, prompting him to curse at you under his breath.

But he doesn't make a move to stop you, only attempting to stifle a groan as he keeps his phone to his ear.

And you find yourself stifling a laugh when you hear Alaric ask if everything's okay.

"Yeah, Ric," Damon says, his voice strained as he squirms beneath you. "Everything's great. Nothing wrong here."

You find it all the more amusing by how hard he's trying to cover, despite the fact that he's practically groaning into the phone, one of his hands absentmindedly playing with your hair.

Once you manage to pull his pants off along with his boxers, you waste no time in wrapping your hand around his length, eliciting a startled sigh from him, his hips jerking into you from the contact.

"Are you sure you're okay?" You hear Ric ask him, and it makes you chuckle.

Damon glares at you as he speaks.

"Yeah, Ric, everything's fine." He assures him again, readjusting himself slightly beneath you. "But you know what, I uh─I might have to call you back."

Before you're even able to wrap your lips around him, he's threading a hand into your hair, pulling you up so that you're face to face with him now.

"Were you not aware that I was on a call?" He asks, pressing his mouth into a line as he looks at you.

"I was aware."

"Hm." He hums, twirling a finger through your hair. "What am I gonna do with you?"

Before you have a chance to offer him any suggestions, he's flipping you onto your back, his fingers snaking around your throat as he hovers over you.

"As much as I loved your hand around my dick." He smirks, his free hand trailing down your body. "You really shouldn't interrupt my calls like that."

"What're you gonna do about it?"

He doesn't offer you an answer, and instead you feel his fingers slide beneath the waistband of your jeans.

"Now, you've been a bad bad girl," he tuts, pressing a finger against you through the fabric of your panties. "And bad girls get punished."

You laugh. "And how is this a punishment?"

"Oh, you'll see." He smirks, sliding his hand inside your panties, his fingers swirling around your clit.

You sigh, throwing your head back into the pillows when he pushes a finger inside of you.

Except, he doesn't move, instead choosing to remain painfully still, a wicked smirk on his face as he looks down at you.

"Damon," you whine, looking down to where his hand had disappeared in your jeans. "Come on."

"What? I'm not doing anything."

"Exactly, you're not doing anything."

"What would you like me to do?" He asks, a knowing grin on his face as he moves his hand ever so slightly against you. "You want me to fuck you?"

"Yes," you sigh, nodding your head at him.

"Apologise."

"What?"

He smirks. "You interrupted my call. Apologise."

You continue to resist, shifting uncomfortably beneath him, but he won't let up.

"If you apologise," he says, slipping his hand out of your jeans now. "Then I'll give you what you want."

"Okay, I'm sorry," you finally say, giving in.

"That's right."

And with that, he's flipping you over onto your front, his hands already tugging your jeans off. And within seconds, he's inside you, already moving at a brutal pace as he holds you up, rough fingers digging into your ass.

"God," you moan, your mouth twisting into a smile as he fucks you. "I'm so so sorry. So sorry."

"And I forgive you."

[Main Masterlist]

[svltzmans]

take it out on me - h.m.

a/n: hi! i'm trying to get back into writing longer stuff that's not in headcanon format so let's see how that goes (also this was a requested prompt and 🫣🥵)

warnings: smut (18+), dirty talk, slight nipple play? minor overstimulation? hope is stressed :(, but not for long lmao, i accidentally deleted this whole thing and had to write it again, so sorry for any mistakes :(

hope's stress-filled lifestyle was getting to her, and she knew it.

being both a full time student and monster hunter wasn't exactly the easiest thing, but she thought she would be able to handle it with ease.

that was, until, malivore decided to bombard the salvatore school with creatures during the week of final exams.

hope was constantly getting pulled away from her studies by alaric, and although she knew she was protecting herself and those she loved, she couldn't help but be annoyed.

performing well in school had always been important to hope, and not being able to prepare had her brain in shambles.

when hope finally does get to sit down to study, she just can't focus. she has too many things to think about, and she just can't seem to organize herself.

closing her book in dismay, she throws herself onto her bed and stares at the ceiling.

she decides that if she's not going to be studying, she might as well have company. picking up her phone for the first time in what feels like hours, she sends a text to her girlfriend.

exams are stressing me out and i think i'd feel better with you here.

hope stares blankly for a few minutes, awaiting a response, until she hears the door to her bedroom open.

"hey beautiful," y/n says, plopping down on the bed next to hope.

"couldn't even get a text back?" hope teases, giving y/n a quick peck on the lips.

"i was a little busy running over here."

hope can't help but laugh, admiring the girl in front of her. she was wearing an oversized sweatshirt and joggers that made her look undeniably adorable.

when y/n speaks again, there's concern in her voice.

"so, stressed about your exams, huh?"

"i just can't focus on reading my textbooks. dr. saltzman has me running around what feels like the whole world, and i'm just exhausted."

y/n's heart twinges hearing the pain in hope's voice. she rests her hand on her girlfriend's leg, hoping to provide some comfort.

"he relies on you too much. i know you're like, a powerful force and he's just an old man, but..."

before y/n can finish her sentence, hope is laughing harder than she has in days.

"you always know how to make me feel better," hope smiles, looking into y/n's eyes.

"actually, speaking of that," y/n pauses. "i had an idea."

y/n stands up, never breaking eye contact with hope. hope stares up at her, confusion in her eyes, but her questions are answered when y/n takes her hoodie off, her joggers following shortly after.

hope is speechless when she sees her girlfriend in a set of deep red lace. the color compliments y/n's skin perfectly, the material extenuating hope's favorite parts of her.

"god, y/n," hope chokes out. "what's this all about?"

"i thought i could, help with the stress," y/n seduces, wrapping her legs around hope's waist and resting her hand on her girlfriend's face. "maybe you could take it out on me, huh?"

the second y/n finishes speaking, hope pulls her into a passionate kiss, y/n's hands still resting on her face.

"i knew you'd like this surprise," y/n teases in between kisses.

"you're so beautiful," hope responds, holding y/n's waist tightly.

"take it off, hope."

without another word, hope makes quick work of taking off y/n's lace bra and underwear, throwing them across her bedroom before doing the same to her own.

unable to help herself, hope cups y/n's chest, running her fingers lightly across her nipples. y/n lets out a guttural moan, her fingers in hope's hair.

"fuck, hope," y/n slurs before giving hope a gentle push, encouraging her to lay on her back.

"i'm gonna fuck you until you can't think of anything else but me, nevermind stress about anything," y/n whispers, lightly kissing hope's neck.

y/n continues kissing down hope's body until she lands at her inner thighs, peppering them in soft pecks.

"please, don't tease y/n. need this so bad," hope whimpers, trying to raise her hips enough to ride y/n's face.

"oh i know you need this, hope. you're so wet for me already," y/n coos, just barely running her finger up hope's pussy.

"please baby, want it so bad," hope moans, her desperation growing by the second.

"want what, pretty girl? you gotta tell me what you want, or i can't give it to you." y/n knows that bringing hope to the brink of insanity makes the entire experience more gratifying.

"i need you to eat me out, y/n," hope begs.

satisfied by hope's response, y/n's tongue finally makes contact with her, sending hope into a state of ecstacy immediately.

hope feels like she can't contain herself, not even attempting to keep her voice down. she pulls y/n closer by her hair, unable to get enough of her.

hope's moans only motivate y/n, her pace quickening with every noise out of hope's mouth.

"can't be stressed if you're busy cumming on my face, pretty girl," y/n teases, hearing hope only get louder at the sound of her words.

"you just, you feel so good y/n," hope writhes as she speaks, her voice shaking.

y/n is relentless, not wasting a second. she knows how badly hope needs this. how badly hope needs her.

luckily for hope, the feeling was mutual.

y/n was in awe of the way hope looked under her, the desperation and need vibrant in her eyes.

without hesitation, y/n thrusts a finger into hope, earning a near-scream from her girlfriend.

"oh god y/n, more," she whines, trying to coax the girl into adding another finger.

when she does, the combination of y/n's fingers and mouth are almost too much for hope, sensitivity coursing through her body.

"need to cum baby, can't take any more," hope whines, struggling to form a full sentence.

"then cum for me, beautiful. let it all out," y/n talks hope through her orgasm, enjoying every second of her reaction.

hope somewhat collapses, her legs lightly shaking and her cheeks flushed.

"i don't think i'm stressed anymore," hope laughs, y/n soon joining her.

"always here to help."

[fandoms--fluff]

Mission

Female vampire reader x Hope Mikaelson

Summary: You and Hope are assigned to go to Mystic Falls high to get rid of a monster while hiding your relationship from the super squad and basically the whole school.

Warnings: swearing, killing.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"...So, in conclusion, one of the teachers at Mystic Falls high is a werewolf, or a creature that fits those perimeters" Alaric concludes to you and the rest of the super squad. Though you may or may not have zoned out half way through him talking.

You twirl a section of your hair between your fingers as you continue not paying attention to what the others are saying until you feel a kick to your ankle.

"Hey!" I look up. "What was that for?" I drop my hand from my hair. "Well, you didn't hear us the first couple times" Lizzie shrugs, she's the obvious one who kicked you.

I roll my eyes, "Well, I'm paying attention now. What?" I look around at everyone.

Alaric sighs, "i was saying how you and Hope are to go to the high school to figure out the werewolf teacher problem." Alaric crosses his arms, irritated.

"Oh, so kill the teacher. Now that I can get behind" I perk up slightly in the uncomfortable chair. "Now-That's not exactly, uh-" he falters. "Do you want the problem dealt with or not, old man?" I cross my arms, cutting him off. "Yes? Great, good job everyone, I'm starving" I don't give Alaric time to answer before getting up and start to walk away from the group.

"We can do that?" Lizzie asks, standing up as well, following you to the door that leads out of the office. Alaric sighs, dismissing everyone else from the meeting, knowing nothing else is going to get done now.

After you leave the room, you hear footsteps approaching you as you walk to the kitchen. "Hey, Hope" I say, not bothering to turn around as I open the fridge.

"How'd you know it was me?" She asks, her eyebrows slightly scrunched up. She leans against the closest kitchen prep island.

I turn around, an apple in my hand, closing the fridge door. "My secret powers" you smirk, raising a brow. "Uh huh" Hope playfully rolls her eyes.

"Nah, I could smell you" you say before biting into the apple. Hope falters, not expecting that response. "Do I smell bad or something?" She leans over and sniffs at her armpits.

You swallow the apple. "No, I've just gotten used to what your personal scent is I guess? If I were to give it a name. I dunno. But it's not a bad smell" You shrug before taking another bite.

"Oh, okay" She brushes it off, not knowing if she should be flattered or offended by that. Maybe flattered?

She pushes herself off the island before coming over to you and wrapping her arms around your torso from behind. "How much of the meeting did you actually listen to?" Hope lays her chin on your shoulder.

You pause, about to take another bite. "Would you believe me if I said the whole thing?" You ask, unconvincingly. "Nope" Hope immediately says. Which in all fairness, she isn't wrong about this.

"Okay, so it may have been the first minute and a half and the last part" I confess before continuing to eat the apple.

"That's what I thought. But on the bright side, we'll have some time together not needing to hide our relationship" Hope leans closer and kisses the crevice of your neck a couple times.

You lean into the kisses she places on your skin. Though, it's short lasting as your ears perk up at the sound of someone nearing the kitchen. "Quick, someone's coming" you whisper urgently.

Hope quickly releases her hold from you and goes back over to her old position leaning against the prep island. At the same time, you shake off the feeling from before and bring the apple back up to your mouth.

The person in question is Josie. She enters the kitchen, faltering shortly once she sees you guys in there already before perking back up.

"Hey you two." She says before going over to the cabinet and grabbing a Tylenol bottle. "Something wrong?" Hope asks the siphoner.

Josie shrugs as she opens the bottle, "Just cramps" she answers. "What are you two doing. Other than eating an apple" She turns back around from putting away the pill bottle. "Some talking" Hope answers for the both of you nonchalantly, not letting anything slip that had actually happened with her answer.

"Cramps?" You ask Josie. "Yeah, I'm on my period" She answers before swallowing the pill with some water. "Oh, those" You nod while throwing the apple core into the compost bin.

"Right, you don't get them, huh?" Josie points in understanding.

"Yeah, one of the joys and perks of being a vampire" you nod, hopping up on the island beside where hope is standing with a soft smile.

"What time are you guys going tomorrow again?" Josie asks while putting the glass she used in the sink. "We're leaving at 8 in the morning." Hope answers.

Your eyes basically bulge out, "We're at what time now?!"

Josie and Hope both chuckle at your reaction. "Well, I'll let you explain that, good night" Josie walks out of the kitchen. "Night" Hope answers as you're still gobsmacked about the early time you guys have to leave. Not just wake up at, but leave at.

"You okay there, babe?" Hope chuckles. I slowly turn to face her. "No, why so early? Are they wanting to torture us?" You tell her.

"I think Dr. Saltzman just wants us to leave at a time so we'll get there in time before the bell rings for school to start. So we're on time." Hope latches onto your hand after you jump down from the island.

"That is so gonna suck" You groan as we head out of the kitchen. "I'll make sure you get up bright and early. You groan again, making hope laugh.

You guys make your way up the dorm hall where your rooms are located right next to each other. You say good night before separating into your own rooms.

It's the next day and you don't know how, but you're sitting in the driver seat of the car and parked in front of Mystic Falls High. The whole morning is a blur of yawns and Hope quite literally dragging you out of bed.

"Were at literal hell" You shake your head slowly in disbelief at being at the school. "It won't be so bad" Hope nudges you before opening the door and getting out of the car.

You groan before taking the keys out of the ignition and leaving the car as well. You click the button, locking the car as you walk over to Hope. "Where's your bag?" She asks, not seeing one slung over your shoulder in your hands. "Good question. Oh well. We both know if I don't do any work at our actual school then I'm not gonna do any here" You tell her.

Hope nods her head in reply of knowing your antics and that you're right. "And yet you get good grades. How's that possible?" She asks as you guys walk into the building.

All you do is wink in return before turning back to look around the halls and the teens littering the halls. You scrunch your face up in discomfort and annoyance of being around so many people.

"I don't even want to know" Hope gives up and puts that away to ask about later while you guys aren't around hundreds of other people.

"Okay, so we're looking for a wolfy teacher. All we got to do is see which one of the old bores give Taylor Lautner vibes" You talk to Hope. "Please tell me you're kidding" Hope looks at you with an incredulous face.

You look to her with a shit eating grin. "Aaand, you're not" She tries not to laugh.

"Do we really need to go to class?" You groan, not liking the idea of sitting in a classroom in a school that reeks of teenagers going through puberty.

"Yes, if we want to get a feel of which teacher is the you know what, then we have to go to classes." Hope sneakily grabs your arm and drags you into the classroom, the number of which she recognized from the time table given to her from Alaric.

"Ugh, kill me now" You groan loud enough so that only Hope can hear as you guys sit at the lab desk beside each other. "What class is this specifically? Please don't tell me it's biology."

Hope looks away, trying not to make eye contact with you. "It's fucking bio, isn't it?" You ground out. Hope slowly turns back to you, "..yeah" She let's out.

"Fine, okay, but if I start to fall asleep, make sure the teacher doesn't see" You tell her. "Easy enough" Hope nods. I lean against her side, laying my head against her shoulder.

From behind us, two boys wolf whistle. "Oh fuck off you twats" you look over to them, making them flinch with the boom of your voice. In the process you also startle Hope by accident.

You realize and look back over to her. "Sorry, I should've given you warning" You apologize. "It's okay. Try not to do that when the teacher's in the room though" She smiles. "Good idea, don't need them all on my case. There's no way I want lectures from stupid human teachers" I say.

Hope nudges you in your side. "What? it's the truth" you say, putting on a 'nice' smile. "Uh huh" Hope says, holding back another chuckle.

As class starts and the teacher drones on, it's clear that the old lady is definitely not a werewolf. You almost drift off into sleep but startle yourself back awake before you almost hit the table surface.

Before you know it, the bell rings, signaling class is over. Looking over, you see Hope putting away a pen in her pencil case. "Did you seriously take notes?" You say, seeing the notebook page covered in what you have to assume the lady was teaching during the class.

"Yeah, it was really interesting actually" Hope closes her notebook. "Well, good for you, babe" I pat her shoulder while getting off the stool chair.

While leaving the classroom, you watch as a man walks by with a crazed look. You notice the brief case and put it together that he must be the werewolf teacher. "I think we found our..guy..." You look over to where Hope was just standing beside you. "Where did you go" you groan and start to sense out where your girlfriend is.

You soon find yourself in the girls bathroom. Hope is with another girl in front of the bathroom mirror. The girl hands her a headband accessory before saying bye and leaving out the door behind you. "What was that about?" You ask as Hope put the headband that apparently has cat ears on them on her head.

"That girl pulled me here and gave me some makeup tips and this headband. I think it's cute" Hope turns to you with a smile on her face.

"Huh. And while I think your adorable with that on, I think I found our teacher werewolf. He was going down the hallway with the yellow walls." I tell her.

"The English wing? Let's go" She follows you out the bathroom. "How do you know it'd the English wing?" You ask her as you guys turn down the hallway.

"It's on the time table sheet Doctor Saltzman gave us." You shoot her a confused look. "That he gave me" Hope re-iterates. "Ah, makes sense, I would've thrown it out."

"Exactly" Hope grasps onto your hand, happy she can do it here without anyone hounding you guys about your relationship.

While you make your way down the hallway, you listen in on what's happening in the classrooms. Soon, I pause. There's a rustling sound in the janitors closet. There are groans and something that sounds like a jar crashed against the ground by being knocked over.

Hope follows your gaze to the janitors closet and walks behind you as you go closer. You reach out to the handle to open the door. "Please don't be teens making out, please" you whisper so only you and Hope can hear.

You grasp on the handle and swing the door open. What's displayed is the same man from before, clearly agitated and rowdy. He's got a wild look in his eyes from the full moon being later tonight. "Oh thank fuck. It's just you, Wolfy" I let out a sigh of relief.

"How are we going to do this? Without causing a huge disturbance." Hope asks from behind you. "Like this. Duck!" Hope follows your orders immediately.

As soon as the werewolf is about to attack you, you claw your own fingers into the back of his neck and throw him over to the lockers across the hall. Before the werewolf hits the lockers, you vamp over and hold him by his throat and squeeze. Hard.

The next minute, the head de-taches from the body, successfully decapitating him. Hope shudders as pulls a grossed out face as you do so, the body dropping to the ground in a thud.

"Well, at least no one else will have to suffer through his classes anymore" You shrug your shoulders and tilt your head while holding out the head to look at it better. "Now, for this" You pull out a syringe from your pocket and jab it into the gums above the sharp fangs. slowly pulling back the suction tube, the venom fills the syringe bottle.

"Why do you need werewolf venom?" Hope stands back up, inching away from the body.

"For the next time the dumbass vampire boy jock jackasses annoy me" You answer simply. "Okay, should've guessed that" Hope places her hands on her hips.

"That was fun. Time to burn a body" You lift the body over one of your shoulders with the head still in your hand. With your free hand, you grab onto Hope's shoulder and vamp the two of you into the forest beside the school.

Once you find a clearing, you stop. "Sorry for the non warning" You tell her, dropping the body and head unceremoniously on the dirt. "It's okay. Good thing is, no one saw what happened. Incendia." Hope sets the body and head on fire with the spell.

"As well as we only had to go to one boring class. I say we skip the rest of the day and play hooky" You tell her, smirking as the body burns to ashes.

"That actually sounds like fun" Hope sighs and leans into you. You kiss the side of her head before trekking back to your car in the school parking lot.

[unneededscript-if]

Unneeded Script

Demo - Prologue + Chapter 1 (Part 1+2) - (word count w/ code 12.065)

A self-indulgent interactive fiction

You died in a car accident, congratulations!

Now, it's time to try again in a fantastic setting, but oh wait!

You are a villain!

Good luck!

Synopsis;

As far as you were concerned, you were a normal college student. That was until you died in a car accident.

However, that was not the end of your life as you find yourself in the body of the youngest child of the Duke of North.

That wouldn't have been a problem if the youngest child wasn't a villain of the story.

What will you do now?

Comments and asks are welcome

Characters;

A/N - most of the ROs are undecided

Alaric Solaria - Crown Prince of Solaria/RO

As the oldest son and heir, you would expect him to be a serious type. Instead, he is known for his charming and playful personality. Yet behind all those smiles hides a vicious player in the game of politics and Crown.

Physical description;

Alaric is a tan man with dark brown hair, short and messy, and golden eyes that represent the Imperial family of Solaria. He is a well-built individual, thanks to his constant training with his knights. He is 6.2 in height.

Cornelia Douglas - Saintess/RO

Daughter of Count Douglas, Cornelia is a well loved young woman by both her beloved people and those outside of her close circles.

Once it was said she was a quiet and meek girl, now she is an outspoken and charming lady. The sudden change has not gone unnoticed by masses.

Physical description;

A fair lady with fair skin and bright green eyes. As a lady of a Douglas house, she is born with straight pink hair that goes down her waist.

Simone - White Lilly, Mage of Moon Goddess/RO

Simone is a cold young lady and mage of Moon Goddess. She was once a commoner who joined the Followers of Moon Goddess.

Not much is known about her.

Physical description;

Simone, like many female followers, wears a white or silver veil that covers her face as well as long dresses and white gloves. Her appearance is not known to those who are not close to her.

Karl Blackwell - Spymaster/RO

Karl is Crown Prince’s right-hand man. He is much more mellow than the Crown Prince when it comes to his personality. Quieter and invisible to those outside his close friends.

Physical appearance;

Brown hair and brown eyes, Karl is of an average appearance.

More Characters TBA

Features;

- Choose your gender (male or female), personality and sexuality

- Choose if you will be a knight (type of weapon), mage (type of magic), or a strategist

- Make choices and deal with consequences

- Romance one of the RO's

[klausysworld]

hello you can write something cute for yandere klaus mikaelson, where klaus and y/n are not a couple (and he hasn't kidnapped her) but even so klaus is super obsessed with her and everyone knows it because it's obvious, from the amount of things that klaus he gives and does it for her, and one day they both meet at a party in mystic falls and klaus takes the opportunity to ask y/n for a dance, and she does not reject him and during the entire dance klaus does not stop whispering words of adoration to her and how much loves her

The lengths of his love

Klaus was hooked straight away.

Day one, in Alarics body, he had his eyes on her. He didn’t know what was special about her but something was whether everyone else could see it or not didn’t matter to him.

Something about the way she moved was mesmerising, her scent enticing and beauty entrancing.

Everyone tried to keep her from him but they couldn’t stop him from her. Couldn’t stop him from following her around, watching her. He could tell that everyone was on edge when he was near her, when he would do anything he could to brighten her day. And when the Save Elena Gang tried to stop him, we’ll his gestures just got more dramatic. He enjoyed knowing that the array of roses and a ridiculous amount of chocolates would make her grin, make her blush and how his poetry would make her giggle but she would saved every last stem of a flower, every empty box of treats and every note he left. He just hoped this meant that she would give him the time of day.

So when the opportunity presented itself, he took it.

Seeing her stood there, all dolled up and smiling as her friends danced.

He approached her almost cautiously but shook his head to himself and plucked the courage to tap her shoulder.

Her head turned to him in response and her lips pulled into a small smile at the sight of him

“Hi Klaus” she greeted softly and he grinned

“Hello my love” he whispered, his voice not getting any louder despite him clearing his throat multiple times making her smile grow at his obvious nervousness. His eyes glanced to hers and he inhaled a breath before speaking “would you like to dance?” He asked quietly and she nodded, taking his outstretched hand making him sigh out in relief of sorts.

His hand held hers firmly but gently while is other held onto her waist, his fingertips tingling and a shiver sensation sending down his spine as her hand cupped the space between his neck and shoulder. His eyes fluttered before he looked back down at her eagerly awaiting one’s before realising he wasn’t yet moving, they were just holding each other.

A smirk tugged at his lips, his usual confidence returning when he realised how she clung to him just as much as he did her.

He lead her movements to the slow song, his hand hand squeezing her hip gently as his mind engraved the memory of her curves under his skin. He pulled her body closer to his as his feet moved to the rhythm of the music, hers quickly following his lead making him smile.

He appreciated how she completely ignored the eyes of her friends burning into both their heads.

His face neared hers, his cheek pressing to the side of her head as he breathed in the scent of her hair with a soft sigh. He felt like waves of warmth were flowing over him just at the skin on skin contact with her.

Finally embracing the girl he has been craving for months on end was euphoric. His lips gently pressed to her temple as a small smile pulled at his lips.

“You’re so gorgeous” he whispered to her. He listened as her heartbeat sped slightly at his words and he felt her body get closer to his.

It were as though they were the only two stars in the sky as he twirled her in his hold. Her smile lit up the room as a she let out a soft laugh as she spun back to his chest and he lifted her off her feet as he swirled around.

Both his arms circled her waist and she hung off his neck, her fingers playing with the baby hairs at the back of his head.

Her eyes sparkled under the soft glow of the lights above and he found himself lost in them, drowning in everything that was her.

His face neared hers as his head tilted down so their noses brushed against each others briefly. Y/n could feel his warm breath against her lips as they remained close but not close enough.

She could feel her heart in her throat as he squeezed her hips.

Y/n wasn’t foolish. She knew Klaus had been infatuated with her, obsessed and determined to have her. Thankfully for him, she wasn’t terrified or worried. Perhaps it was because she was already used to watching Damon and Stefan behave like mongrels after Elena and she assumed that it must be common within vampires and their heightened emotions to fixate on one that made them feel good. That or she just couldn’t find it in her to fear him.

Not when his touch was this tender, not with his perfect, full lips just above hers. She couldn’t help but watch them, the way his tongue wetted them sensually almost caused a whimper to erupt from her but her teeth clamped down on her own bottom lip to prevent the embarrassing sound.

Klaus noticed her holding it back of course, and he couldn’t have that.

His hands on her waist made the daring move to slide a little lower, both giving a light squeeze to her behind making the desired noise to leave her now open mouth. Klaus couldn’t have cared less that they were in a room full of people as he gave a firmer squeeze to her soft, round arse. The moan she let escape her throat was music to his ears and he only wished she would wrap her legs around his waist and have him carry her to his chambers. But he held that thought back.

“You’re perfect…” he whispered “…so lovely”

His lips ever so lightly touched hers, not enough to count as a kiss but god did it stir something inside them both.

“You may never understand the lengths to which I love you” he uttered before letting his eyes close and his mouth to press to hers with a little more force.

It was a small kiss, delicate and sweet just like her but it granted him a moment in heaven, a second of bliss.

Both of them continued to sway together, lips just out of reach from the others.

Many declarations of affections were awarded to her throughout the evening. He got to feel her soft kisses with each loving whisper he gave.

And as the people filtered out of the building, so did Klaus and Y/n.

And with one last kiss, one last promise of a forever, they separated. Ear-to-ear smiled on both their faces as they took glances back at each other until they were out of sight but even then, Y/n knew he was somewhere watching her get home safely and thinking she didn’t know.

And she let him believe that as she went home and lay in bed with him on her mind.

[artificial-transmutations]

Class Change

"Halt, criminal scum!"

Brolar's voice boomed through the small alley and some pigeons flew up, startled by the loud noise.

Brolar knew he had won now. The thief he had been fighting and following through half of the city had maneuvered himself into a dead end now. The walls of the surrounding buildings were too high to easily climb and Brolar doubted the thief would have been able to, even if they were. Both the thief and himself had exchanged some blows before, although the knight's armor on Brolar's powerful frame prevented more serious injuries. Still, the stealing scum had been surprisingly nimble and had managed to land some hits on the lesser protected parts of his body.

It mattered little. As it was to be expected, Brolar had won in the end, and the little rat had nowhere to run now.

The dark haired man he was following had apparently notice his mistake and his hands shot up in defeat.

"I yield! Please spare me!" he squeaked, with a voice like a rat.

Brolar smirked. Even though the newly returned prince Alaric had a questionable reputation, the kingdoms knights were upholding honor and righteousness. And Brolar was proud to be one of them.

"Empty you pockets!" He commanded.

"Alright, alright! Don't hurt me, please." the thief pleaded.

Slowly and with trembling fingers, the dark-haired man pulled out the stolen jewelry from his pockets and offered it on an open palm to the knight. Among the gold and silver rings and necklaces there were some other items as well: Some coins, a velvet handkerchief and a crystal vial, filled with a red liquid.

Brolar recognized the vial immediately: It was an item the kingdom's alchemists were selling, and the red liquid was a healing potion - a potent, yet not overly valuable mixture.

"You even stole from the apothecaries." Brolar said and shook his head. He carefully pocketed the valuables and looked at the potion. "And you couldn't get anything better than a health potion."

The thief looked like he was about to say something, but a single glare from the knight shut him up.

Such a remedy wasn't a big loss to any alchemist. For Brolar on the other hand, it was a welcome way be able to make his way back to the castle with less pain. With a quick motion, he uncorked the bottle.

"Sire, please, this isn't..." the thief began anew, but it was too late. Brolar had already downed the contents of the vial in one single gulp.

"...a healing concoction." the thief ended, eyes wide at Brolar's impulsive action.

"You rat!" shouted Brolar and pointed his sword at the other man's throat. "Did you poison me?!"

"No, it's not poison." the smaller man squeaked, with sweat on his forehead. He didn't mention that the knight had decided to drink the unknown potion all on his own - it would hardly have bettered his situation.

"Then what is it?" Brolar asked, still aiming his blade at the other man.

The thief gulped. "It is an ... elixir of class change."

"A what?" the knight asked. He had never heard about such a thing before.

"Please, put your sword away, and I'll explain."

"Very well, but the slightest attempt of escape will be the last thing you'll ever do."

The thief nodded. He didn't know the details, but what he knew is that the effects should start soon. With any luck, whatever was going to happen would even help him get out of this situation. He just had to bide some time.

"My name is Cerric, by the way." he started.

"Cerric." the knight repeated before snorting. "As if I care. Now, what is an... elixir of class change? What did I just drink?"

"Well, Sir Knight, I know little more than the name, but... it is said to have some quite transformative qualities."

Cerric watched Brolar carefully. If he was not mistaken, the effects were starting already. The clean shaven chin of the noble knight was showing some signs of stubble. Of course, the knight's hair was blonde - what other color could it have - but the small hairs appearing on his chin were darker, clearly visible against the fair skin.

"You're lying." Brolar said and raised his sword again, ready to strike.

"I swear, I'm not, Sire!" Cerric squealed. "You will see soon."

In fact, Brolar felt strange. He was feeling the heavy weight of his armor more than usual right now. He had long since gotten used to the weight of the metal plates that protected him, and he had developed muscles to support them. But right now, it felt as if he was lacking these very muscles. The longer he stood the less comfortable his breastplate became: It wasn't just becoming heavier, but also bigger on his frame. It was as if his torso thinned out and he got more and more wiggle room inside the rigid plate armor.

At the same time, his armor's pants were getting looser. His once trunk-like legs thinned considerably, until only a lean shadow of their former selves remained.

"What... is happening to me?" Brolar dropped his sword which fell to the ground with a metallic sound and touched his face with both hands, just in time to feel it get slimmer. His once square jaw would have gotten considerably less manly hadn't it be for the coating of brown stubble that now adorned his chin and upper lip.

Just as the weight of his armor was becoming too much to bear, the transformation reached his clothes. His sturdy armor pants changed texture and material, transforming from shiny metal and blue fabric to worn, brown leather that was being fastened to his thinner legs by multiple straps of the same material. Moving up, his metal belt turned into a slightly darker shade of brown leather, complete with a cheap bronze buckle.

Next to go were the plates protecting his arms. They became cheap green linen, not providing any protection but highlighting his unimpressive arms. They were lean and slim, and, compared to their former shape, twig-like. The sturdy, yet fine leather gloves on his hands dissolved entirely, exposing his now way more agile fingers. Brolar had never been a man who was good with his hands, but these hands could probably play an instrument well or undo a man's buckle in seconds.

Wait! Where did that thought come from? Brolar had sworn an oath to remain pure - and the very few instances he had to fight unclean thoughts were directed at women. Yet, now the picture of manly bulges came to his mind unbidden - and caused a swelling on another part of his body.

Just as his mighty metal pauldrons turned into cheap leather shoulder guards, Brolar's mind became fogged by lust more and more. He couldn't stop thinking of men! His leather pants showed a clear picture of his arousal. Apparently, his rather mediocre member had grown to a truly animalistic size - at least, that was the only explanation for his bulging pants front.

Suddenly, a big weight was removed, as the last piece of his armor, the chest plate, dissolved into nothing, exposing his lean and slim torso under his open shirt for the world to see. This was a peasant's way to dress, and a raunchy one, too. Brolar exhaled as body hair crept onto his clean upper body (and probably onto other parts of his body as well). It was brown and common, and made him look like a simple person.

However, what was not common, at least to Brolar's knowledge, was the massive bulge in his pants, straining the seams with its size. Brolar was a knight! He shouldn't be feeling these feelings. He closed his eyes in an attempt to cling onto his identity but was interrupted by a sudden touch on his privates. His eyes flew open, and he looked down to a grinning Cerric in shock.

"Need some help with that, stud?" The thief asked with a wink. Brolar wanted to slap away his hand, behead the other man for his insolence, but the pleasure he felt was far too great. He was so confused!

"I'll take that as a yes." the smaller man said and began to work his hands on the massive cock, making the once mighty knight moan uncontrollably.

He had lost the fight as Cerric took his massive rod into his mouth. Brolar's hair grew out longer and turned brown as well. When he rolled back his eyes in pleasure, they, too, changed color: From the steel blue eyes of a knight to dark brown ones, more fitting for the rogue he was now.

What a great change of class, requested around the time of Baldur's Gate release from a subscriber over at riot. While there are no subscription benefits anymore, you can still use my riot page as a tip jar.

[oneirataxiahiraeth]

Can you do a Kai Parker x Stefan Salvatore x y/n? lool

Hierarchy || pt.1

Pairings : fem!reader x siphon!KaiParker

Warnings : Vulgar Language, Mentions of threesomes, Mentions of infidelity, Voyeurism, mutual masterbation, Violent, mentions of blood, mention of death, slight exhibitionism, fingering, oral (both receiving), choking, hair pulling, p in v, unprotected sex, jealous!stefan x jealous!kai, FWB, definitely NOT proofread

Word Count: little over 4k

A/N:

I ALREADY HAD THIS IN MY DRAFTS FROM LIKE MONTHS AGO!!! im so glad someone requested it cus it wasn’t sure if you guys would want to see this😭 im making this 2/maybe 3 parts because I have them ready… partially???

   The interest began the first time you met. He smelled you before he was even able to see you. He remembered the day like it was yesterday. You smelled soft and warm, something about the subtle hibiscus in your perfume almost made him comfortable.

     His eyes remained closed, just listening to your soft hums of whatever pop junk they played on the radio these days. He heard the ruffling of the packaging of your first aid kit, right before felt the searing sting of an alcohol pad being pressed into his skin.

   His head was ringing, blood drying on his shirt from the giant gash in his hairline. You were sure if it was from the scuffle with Alaric earlier or the way Ric hit his unconscious head against the tree afterwards. Kai slowly opened his eyes, flinching away from the sting only to let met with soft apologies that sounds surprisingly genuine. You had a soft sultry tone that made his skin crawl. Once his vision stabilized he was met with one of the most angelic faces he had ever personally witnessed. He swore he had finally died and good somehow found it in his heart to forgive him for his sins. Your lips slightly parted with the pink tip of your tongue poking out as you focused on cleaning the wounds before infection even had the chance to form. You offered reassuring smiles  as he made the most snarky comments he and his concussion could think of before your friend came to whisk you away.

   You were torture to be around. Your scent, face, the way you spoke, how you cried, laughed, everything about you stuck with him. You were torture to be around, the very thought of you intoxicating. Maybe it was simply because of the kindness you had shown him from the very beginning that he never experienced from anyone else. Or the innocent nature of your entire being. the way you tensed when a situation turned violent, or how there was this switch in you that flipped so quickly when someone you care about was in danger. He noted how everyone avoided conflicted with you around, as if they all had a hand to play in preserving your innocence.

"Stop staring at me like that" You spoke blandly, feeling your cheeks heating as you glanced at the siphon who simply shrugged in acknowledgement.

   "Can't help it." A smirked crossed his lips, as his fingers traced invisible shapes along the counter tops. "You are just so mesmerizing."

   "Malachi" You huffed, rolling your eyes as you fought a smile.

   You knew about the tiny crush Kai seemed to have. Though he never confirmed it, and you never had the balls to ask, it was something that you felt. Almost everyone noticed it. The way he spoke to you, about you, how he never got your name wrong or even threatened to hurt a hair on your head. Even if you had received a tiny cut on your hand, he would draw from whatever magic he had simply to heal you. Part of him felt obligated after everything you've done for him, and the other parts just felt like it.

    His attraction started off as solely lustful desperation. He took every opportunity to steal the sight of you. He watched while you were sprawled out across the living room floor, feet dangling in the air as you read from a book he didn't care to pay attention to. He was too focused on the way your tongue rested between your teeth when you concentrated hard enough. He could make out every curve in your body, even recognizing you simple by the way you walked. Over time he realized the way he needed you was more than simply physical.

   Even the way you said his name was so special. He didn't like any one else using his full name. When you said it, it was just different... better. Less implications of someone evil, and it almost made him feel human.

   "What's the smell?"

"Strawberry shortcakes." You perked up.

    "Really?" He sat up straight, looking at the mess you made on the counter. "From scratch I see..." and you nodded gleefully, as his eyebrows narrowed in concern.

   You were something of a nuisance in the kitchen. You love baking, and cooking, but apparently the skill did not love you back. You've burned more things than humanly possible, and it was getting to the point where you were barely trusted to pour your own coffee in the mornings. So you stuck to the earlier mornings when everyone would be dead asleep, unable to talk you out of practicing your skills.

   You could blacken as many cookies or cakes as you wanted and they wouldn't even notice unless something was on fire.

  "Hey, i'm doing really good so far!" You defended you actions, turning around to pick up the cooled tray of tiny cakes you made before the sun even rose. "Nothing was set on fire, and I double checked to made sure I used sugar instead of salt this time." Kai chuckled, standing from his seat walking around the counter just to be closer to you.

   "Hmm." He inspected the tiny vanilla cakes, picking some up to see the perfectly baked cake. "They look really good." you smiled brightly, watching as kai nodded in approval. "but do the taste good?" He questioned, setting the cakes back down on the tray.

   "Now that..." You sighed, turning to set the trays down on the counter. "is the scary part."

   "Every chef has to taste their own dish."

"I am way far from a chef, Malachi." You stated.

   "But you're practicing. Definitely getting better too. You'll get there." He smiled, looking down at the warm pot sitting in the counter with what looked to be a black syrup burned into the sides of the pan. "However, it is slightly concerning that your shoe to make... tar on a regular kitchen stove." He gave you a judging glance.

    "I got distracted." You defend.

"You know..." Kai spoke, taking his eyes away from the oddly offensive sight. "if this whole chef thing doesn't work out for you, you could certainly go into modeling. You really know how to work an apron."

  "You just said I was getting better!"

"I was trying the whole optimism thing. Clearly I am a creature of habit."

  "You mean an asshole?"

"I was going to say realistic." Kai shrugged, finding one of the untouched strawberries containers and stealing the most appetizing one he could see.

  You noticed how incredibly close the two of you were standing. You had to look up just to meet the eyes of the siphon, not even caring how he was leaning over you with a devilish smirk on his face. Something about the closeness felt wrong, but watching as juice from the strawberries wet him lips had you feeling a bit faint.

   You didn't have a crush on Kai... at least that not what it felt like. You and Kai were friends. You had been the first, and practically the only person to actually accept Kai into your lives. He was actually very sweet and funny, and not as bad as he tried to make people think. Sure sometimes he made your cheeks go hot, and he said things that made you wondering if he was just being a flirty friend or if he actually meant what he said.

  "Well." You cleared your throat, watching his jawline as he slowly chewed his fruit. "Since you are the world renowned chef with what 3 Michelin star-"

   "5 actually."

"Wow! 5 whole michelin stars! I assume you have some tips about how to make a decent strawberry compote that isn't going to take forever?"

   "Ah" Kai nodded slowly, setting down his strawberry stem. "Yes, actually. The key is an incredibly handsome sous chef who knows his way around the kitchen."

    "Show me."

"You're gonna have to do better than that." Kai snorted, crossing his arms in front of him.

   "What do you mean do better?" You scoffed.

"You want my help you're gonna have to ask veryyy nicely."

  "Fine." you huffed. "Malachi, can you please show me how to make strawberry compote."

  "Eh"

"Pretty please?"

   "Mehhh"

"With a cherry on top?"

   "uhhh"

"I give up" You took a step back, turning to walk away from the siphon but his hand grabbed your wrist before you could move too far.

“aht aht” He shook his head. “I was only messing with you, y/n” His eyes rolled playfully. “you made a commitment and now you’ve got to see it through”

“Funny.” Your eyes rolled at siphon who seemed to be enjoying how flustered he could make you.

“i like messing with you, you’re cute when you’re flustered” Kai smirked, once again making it hard to breathe as you caught his eyes.

From his dilated pupils to the soft mahogany fragrance that always fills the air when he near. It made it hard to think properly.

“What’s going on in here?” A familiar voice interrupted the soft eye contact you managed to keep with the siphon.

Your head turned towards Stefan, standing in the kitchen doorway. His arms crossed, pajama pants hanging low on his hips showing his deep v line and toned abdomen. The lack of clothing on his torso made it very clear how tightly he was flexing his biceps as he glared at the siphon standing too close for comfort.

“Stefan.” You smiled, sucking in a harsh breath.

Stefan was… complicated.

He was noble, reliable, incredibly sexy, and apparently so insanely jealous. You loved Stefan, there was not a doubt in your mind. You’ve had a crush on him for years, but your dynamic in the group together made things too complicated to pursue something serious. Though you never really knew where you two officially began, you had an understanding. It was understood in various late night session where you sometimes woke the whole house with your antics. It was understood when both of you would disappear in the middle of the day only for you to come back covered in marks and bruises, blaming it on being clumsy.

You never really questioned the relationship you two had. You never felt the need…

“Steven!” Kai smirked, tasing his eyebrows at the way the vampire was flexing on his way to stand behind you. “We were just about to start a crash course on making strawberry compote.” Kai winked.

You felt Stefan pressing up against your back, his body heat radiating into you, sandwiching you in between both him and the siphon.

"Looked like a lot more than just talking to me." Stefan crossed his arms.

"Just two culinary geniuses hard at work." He hummed, popping a cube of strawberry into his mouth with a taunting smile that made your stomach turn.

"I'm sure she cut her damn strawberries just fine without your help, Malachi."

"Well a little company never hurt anyone." Kai straightened up at the name. His eyes turning cold, just like they did before he did something merciless. He kept that smug expression on his face. "Besides, sharing a little advice with your friends is common practice now and days correct?" He asked, earning a nod from Stefan.

"Right..." Stefan, stepped around you, directly facing Kai. Your body tensed, as you watch carefully both of their hands. Stefan's hands clenched under his arms, as if he was just ready to swing. Kai was completely relaxed, taking a step towards Stefan as if his life was on the line. "Well let me give you a little advice." Stefan leaned in, his face completely straight. "Walk. Away." His voice dropping an octave lower, nearly wiping the smugness completely off of Kai's face.

The two were basically breathing the same CO2 from how close they were standing. You opened your mouth to find something to say but you came up short. You placed your hand on Stefan Shoulder, which didn't seem to cause him to back down but did relax the tense muscles.

"Green is not a good look on you, Stefan." Kai hummed after a few seconds of deafening silence.

"Maybe not." Stefan shrugged “But to insinuate that i’m jealous of you, Malachi… it would you have something that I want.” Stefan’s eyes narrowed tightly. “And from the way i see it, i think it’s quite the opposite.”

Kai nodded slowly. He didn't speak but something about the way his eyes softened just felt as if he knew he was out matched. He could take Stefan. You seen him do it before, there no reason he wouldn't be able to manage it now. All it took was one touch and he was down for the count. For some reason he just smile, nodding silently as he took a step back, putting space between the two.

Kai sucked in a deep breath, nodding slowly. He didn’t speak but something about the way his eyes softened just felt as if he knew he was out matched. He could take Stefan. You knew he could, you had seen him do it before, and there no reason he wouldn’t be able to manage it now. All it took was one touch and he down for the count. For some reason now, he just stood there as if he was defeated, backing away to put space in between the two of you.

"I'll catch you later, Y/N." Kai hummed, and you nodded without saying a word. The tension in the room still too thick to properly breathe in.

Walking away from a fight he had even a sliver of a chance at was never Kai's MO. He sent a wink to you before turning away, and taking his leave out of the kitchen. Your eyes stayed glued to his figure until he disappeared past the doorframe, the only thing left of his presence is his mahogany and citrus scented cologne.

Stefan turned slowly to you, listening as Kai's footsteps faded further and further away. His face was dark, and almost scary, but something was telling you it wasn't all directed at you.

"I don't want you alone with him."

"He's our friend." You spoke softly.

"No he's not." Stefan shook his head, unable to comprehend what about him was so friendly to you. "He is a predator, looking for his next prey."

"You know how i feel about the whole outcasting thing."

"Not everyone is worth saving, y/n." You felt it as an instinct to nod but you rejected the urge.

"I..." you sucked in a breath, "I know."

"I'm sorry for that, I just... i don't know, I guess I just didn't like the way he was so close to you." His hand came up to your cheek, caressing you lightly. He gave you a soft reassuring smile which you accepted.

"It's alright, Stef."

He turned his head back to the mess on the cutting board and then the tray in the counter behind you before giving you a raised eyebrow.

"Nothing smells burnt... is it safe to assume that those are just store bought?" Your eyes rolled as he smiled widely.

"You are so not funny."

"I think i'm a little humorous." His placed his grabbed your wrist, placing them over his shoulders, before pulling you closer into him by your waist.

"I think you're a dick." You spoke, emphasizing the 'k' which made his smile grow. "When i'm a Rachel Ray famous, on the tv with my own network show i'm going to remember this." You spoke as he laughed.

"If you don't burn the studio down then yeah." He laughed as your mouth open to speak but nothing came out.

Your lips curved into a small smile, using one of your hands to giving him a playfully tap on his shoulder. His hands traveled down to the backs of your thighs, lifting you up immediately with no hesitation. He set you on the counter right next to your mangled strawberries, his lips connecting right in your neck.

You hummed as his tongue glided against your skin, following the curves of your neck, and leaving a wet hot trail behind. You knew what this meant, it was your biggest weakness. Feeling his teeth scrap against your skin sent electricity down your spine. His hands slowly gliding up your shirt, fingers digging into the soft warm flesh, keeping your back arched into him as he nipped at your skin until he pressed his lips against yours.

Something about kissing Stefan was so... light. You loved the feeling of being close to him, it made you feel secure. The way he kissed you was so deep you couldn't help but lose yourself in him. Your moans were soft, barely audible to those who might've been awake even in these early hours. Stefan loved the way were lips chased after his, always searching for his connection.His hands slid down slowly, running down your thighs and coming back up until the reached the waistband of your pajamas shorts, tugging at the string keeping them fit to your body.

"Stef" You eyes widened, pulling away from his kiss watching a smug grin cross his face.

"If you stay quiet, nobody will know." He tutted, planting a soft kiss on the hot skin of your neck. He slowly slid his hand into the waistband of your shorts, his fingers slipping past the band of your panties finding exactly where you needed him to be.

Your eyes closed softly, focusing on the hand placement, feeling a soft bliss as his fingers covered themselves in your slickness. He watched as your face relaxed, feeling his fingers slowly press into your entrance as his thumb pressed down firmly on your clit. Your lips parting as you let out breathy moans as he built a rhythm to get you off on.

"Speak to me, pretty girl."

"Feels so good, Stef." You whined, hips grinding into his fingers allowing him to reach that spongy trigger in the deep of your cunt. Your nails lightly pressing into the skin on his biceps as his fingers sped up in pace.

"so beautiful." He hummed, pressing his lips into the crook of your neck.

Your eyelids fluttering as you relished in the butterflies running rampant in the out of your stomach. High pitched moans escaping your lips as he sucked harsh spots on your skin, dragging his teeth over them to ensure he left a mark so dark not even your most expensive make up could cover up what he did to you. Part of him ran wild at the idea of you walking around with some part of him stuck onto you.

He couldn't let that mangy siphon get away with trying to make moves on his girl without consequences. Since he couldn't necessarily hurt Kai in the way he wanted he knew that this was his best option. There wasn't a single person in this world that could take you away from him and he would've done whatever to make that clear to anyone who needed it.

"Fuck Stef, you feel s'good" you moaned, his thumb pressing harder as you leaned further into his touch.

"God i love when you say my name" He hummed against your skin. His own cock beginning to hardening at the sounds of your pleasure. Stefan removed his finger quickly, smiling at the protest, seeing as you were so close to finishing. "Patience, y/n." He tutted, tapping your jaw with his free hand, smiling at your obedience as your mouth opened, tongue poking out just slightly on command.

He placed his two fingers coated in your juices directly in your tongue. You moaned at the taste, closing your lips around as you began to lap up your own juices. He watched with a grin, slowly gliding the digits in and out of your mouth, watching you clean them off so perfectly. Once he felt like you did a good enough job he took his fingers back, placing a soft kiss on your lips as a job well done.

"Take these off for me baby." He pulled at the waist band of your shorts, watching your eye widen at the suggestion.

"Stef we can't- not right here!" He smiled, pulling you off the counter and back onto your feet. He pulled your shorts down with your panties, and sunk to his knees. You felt light in the head at the sight. "Fuck" You cried as he lifted your leg into his shoulder, immediately diving in.

You tried keeping quiet but it was hard, feeling the way his hands caressed your thighs and ass as his tongue lapped up all the slickness you created. Your bottom lip was caught in between your teeth as you felt your orgasm approaching. His tongue running circles around your clit, sucking it into his mouth every few seconds causing you to cried out.

With all the pleasure on your mind, it was hard to focus, even harder to notice Kai standing in the doorframe. His head peaking over to see what the commotion was, only to see the few locks of Stefan’s hairs caught in your grip as you held him in place. With the addition of his name leaving your mouth in breathy moans, it wasn’t hard to tell what was going on. It had only been a few seconds, glaring at you as if it was a betrayal to your relationship with him.

Even if you weren’t together… you could at least do better than Stefan.

It became harder for Kai to look away. Your chest heaving, a thin layer of sweat glistening on the surface of your skin. Your head lolling back as you got closer and closer into your ecstasy making it to where you don’t really care how loud you were being. Your moans were so soft and delicate, exactly how Kai had imagined them to be. He doubted anyone upstairs could hear, so it was just You, Stefan, and Kai.

He listened to your pleas for release, memorizing every single note in your tone. The sounds of Stefan’s tongue slurping up your slick folds sent shivers straight to his crotch. He felt dirty for watching you so vulnerable but you made it so hard to feel bad. The way you hung your head back so sensually, he burned the images of you into the forefront of his mind so he’d have the sight of you on the cusps of euphoria in his dreams tonight.

“Stef m’gonna cum” You chest huffed, tightening your grip on his hair.

Kai finally tore his eyes away from your fucked out body. His eyes traced to the sweet smelling cakes you pour in the oven to bake. They were ready. but you didn’t seem to be too concerned with the state of your cakes. He watched the way Stefan’s hands caressed your thighs, pulling you closer into him as your whines grew louder.

So he did what any sensible person would in the situation.

"Oh fuc- Stefan!" You yelped as your eyes caught the flames behind the oven glass. Stefan pulled away quickly, turning his head towards the smokey smell, and got up to action.

You rushed, pulling up your shorts as quickly as you could as Stefan ran to the fire extinguisher. You frowned as he dosed the oven and the cakes you worked so hard on. Both of your breathing was labored for a plethora of reasons. You both listened to the rumbling of footsteps hurrying down the steps only to appear seconds later in concerned faces and disappointed glares.

"Listen I actually like living in the house!" Damon began. "I can't live in this house if it's up in flames, okay?" You shook your head, hiding your face in your hands as Stefan walked over to you, wrapping his arms around you.

"I didn't know they were going to catch on fire!" You defended, but no one seemed to be buying it.

"You are banned from this kitchen! Do you hear me? B A N N E D!"

You dropped your hands from your face, looking around the kitchen to see the tired face staring back at you.

"Oh give her a break, she's trying." Stefan tried his best, but secretly agreed with his brother. You in the kitchen was almost asking for a accident to happen. "Look she made those with no incident."

"Stefan. Look at my OVEN!" Damon raised his voice dramatically, as the two began to bicker.

Then you took notice to the siphon in the doorway. Watching everything from afar. His eyes were trained on you, not even budging when you spotted him. He waved his fingers at you with a soft smirk, watching the scene unfold. Something about his relaxed nature and smug attitude just told you he was behind the fire.

You had no evidence. No way to justify your claim, but you knew.

He did too.

[strangelysamantha]

blue moon ❀

damon salvatore x fem!reader.

warnings: swearing.

words: 973.

summary: coming back to mystic falls in the hope that you'll reunite with your former lover, damon salvatore.

request? no

a/n: cute little fluff :) the rendition of the song im speaking of is blue moon sha na na but specifically the grease edition because its slower paced.

my masterlist

————————————————————————-

blue moon,

you saw me standing alone,

without a dream in my heart,

without a love of my own.

you sat at the mystic grill. it was a friday night, the grill was always swarming with people then. you had recently came back. you moved away for five years trying to reshape your life after being turned. you weren’t expecting much to come out of it, the only reason you showed was to see who was still in town. you walk to a bar stool, claiming it. you ask for a shot, ready to let loose.

you saw a lot of familiar faces. none you were too particularly interested in. honestly; you were just hoping to run into an old lover. you look around, after a few more shots you stood up from the bar. there was no sign of him anywhere. you grab your jacket, heading outside. you stroll the streets of town. the breeze crisp, the sky dark.

you're at the bridge now, stumbling throughout the night. you look down at the water, mind drowning with your own thoughts. the peacefulness took over, you gracefully make your way back to the center of town. the stroll allowed you to calm your nerves, maybe he wasn't here. a certain chill ran throughout your spine then. looking down, a crow rests in front of you on the sidewalk. you eye it, intrigued. after a longing look, you continue down the path.

blue moon, you knew just what i was there for, you heard me saying a prayer for, someone i really could care for.

you end up at the grill again, heading inside you scope the place. you head to the bathroom, wanting to take a breather before socializing. after a last glance in the mirror, you leave the bathroom. your eyes fall onto a figure, occupying your seat you had claimed earlier. his black hair fell at his shoulders, a black leatherjacket snug on his skin. your heart stops, a breath caught in your throat. you wanted to see him yes, but the fact he was in front of you, downing bourbon as he talks to another gentleman gave you butterflies. you hesitate, tempted to start a conversation. you decide against it, not wanting him to get an ego at your rush of a reunion.

you grab a few darts, throwing them at the board. "hey." you look over. a girl with blonde hair, and blue eyes, grins excitingly. "hi?" you question. "have i seen you before?" she asks softly. "it's my first day in town actually." her face contorts into confusion. "i lived here five years ago though." you reassure. "hmm, i wonder where i've seen you." you laugh slightly, "i'm not sure." she shrugs, "well it's nice to meet you. i'm caroline!" you nod, "it's nice to meet you caroline." she happily bounces towards the bar, grabbing shots. you laugh slightly to yourself, surprised by her bubbly personality. you get back to throwing darts. you send one flying to the board, a hand reaches out and grabs it before it can land. "hi darling." damon hands the dart back to you, smirking. "hello, damon." you bite your lip slightly, "i think you owe me a drink or two." he grins, taking your arm. "of course." he leads you to the bar stool next to his pal from earlier. "this is alaric, he's a great drinking buddy." you reach a handout, "and who's this?" he questions.

damon places one of his hands on your back, rubbing it gently. "this is a sight for sore eyes. a treasure if you will." his words surprise you. "i've been waiting for this moment rick." you join in, "it's been way too long damon." he nods agreeing. "hey donavon!" the bartender walks over, groaning. "yes?" his voice is laced with agitation already. "shots please and keep them coming."

he walked away, damon glances over, his lips pulled into a smirk. “where have you been all this time?” you hesitate, “working on myself. but i’m good now.” the bartender pours three shots. “what have you been up too damon?” alaric intervenes, "terrorizing the citizens of mystic falls." his comment made you chuckle, "so nothing's changed huh." the three of you down the shots together. "nothing at all."

alaric calls it a night, having school tomorrow. leaving you and damon alone at the bar. "im really glad you decided to come back." you smile softly at his confession, "im glad you're still here. i was worried i'd come back, and you'd have fled already." he tilts his head to the side, his eyes locked with yours. "i guess i stayed because a part of me knew you would come back for me." it was getting late now; the bar was emptying. "i've missed you a lot damon."

and then there suddenly appeared before me the only one my arms will hold i heard somebody whisper, "please, adore me" and when i looked, the moon had turned to gold

he couldn't resist. he softly cups your chin, pulling you into a soft and tender kiss. you gently kiss back, you run your hands through his hair. you pulled away softly, "may you join me in a dance?" you asked. he grinned, "of course." he takes your hand, leading you to an empty space inside the mystic grill. slow music was playing over the speakers. you held damon close, your head on his chest, he held your waist firmly, his other hand holding yours. "can i stay with you?" you lift your head to look at him. "anything. ask for whatever and i will personally make sure you get it." he squeezes your waist, spinning you around, kissing you again.

blue moon, now i'm no longer alone, without a dream in my heart, without a love of my own.

<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3

[noobiestnoober]

Shadows of Destiny (Kai x Reader)

The story is set during when Kai escapes from the Prison World with the Heretics. Y/N, being a close friend of Kai, who had developed feelings for Kai in Prison World - 1994, found out he escaped and was planning to commit mass murder at Alaric and Jo's wedding, decides to confront and stop him. But she gets restrained by Kai instead.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"You're going to regret this," Y/N snarled, jerking against the restraints with all her might. The friction of the ropes would scrape her chafed wrists, but she didn't even give a damn; the fury inside her was burning far more than any literal pain. Kai Parker stood before her, his smile infuriatingly calm, "Regret the time spent with you? Never!" His voice was smooth, almost tender, a stark contrast to the malice in his eyes.

Her heart was pounding in her chest. She had known Kai for months. She had seen his cruelty and moments of vulnerability. But this was different; she'd always been able to keep herself cool around him, but this time, the stakes were up. Too many lives depended on her getting out of there and stopping him.

Their history was a complicated one. Y/N first met Kai in the 1994 Prison World, where she was stuck with Bonnie and Damon. Then, he was the charming sociopath who thrived off chaos and destruction. But in those quiet moments, away from Bonnie and Damon, there had been something else. Kai had a way of making Y/N blush with his relentless flirting and teasing. He had a way of getting under her skin, making her feel things she didn't want to acknowledge.

"Y/N, come on," Kai would say, his eyes twinkling with mischief, "You know you like having me around. Admit it." He'd lean in close, his breath warm against her ear, and she would feel her cheeks flush, despite herself trying to stay stoic.

"You're insufferable," she would throw back, drawing herself up and shooting him a look, but inside, she was thrilled with every fiber of her being when he did that. Faced now with the reality of his actions, those memories felt like a distant dream. The boy who had made her blush was also the man who was capable of unimaginable cruelty.

"You think this is a joke, Kai? You think you can keep playing your twisted games and get away with it?" Her voice shook with her fury, but she made herself meet his eyes steadily.

Kai tilted his head, his smile widening, "Y/N, you don't understand. It's not a game; this is beyond my control. This is destiny. This is what I was put on this earth to do."

"Destiny?" Y/N spat out, eyes blazing, "To hurt people, to cause chaos? That is not destiny, Kai. That is madness."

He took a step closer, his expression darkening, "Madness? Perhaps. But it is madness with a purpose. You see, Y/N, I have spent my whole life being told I was worthless, an abomination. But now, finally, I have power. Finally, I am in control."

Her heart ached for the pain she saw flicker across his eyes. For a moment, she saw the boy who had been discarded, who had been made to feel like nothing. But she couldn't allow herself to pity him. Not now.

"Kai, listen to me," she said, her voice softer but no less urgent, "You don't have to do this. You can choose a different path. You can use your power for good."

He laughed, a harsh, bitter sound, "Good? There's no good left for me, Y/N. Just survival. And the only way I survive now is by winning this fucking game."

Y/N's mind raced for something to say to him, "Kai, if you do this, you'll be alone. Completely and utterly alone. Is that really what you want?"

His smile faltered for just a fraction of a second; then it was back, colder than ever, "Better alone and powerful than surrounded by people who will never understand me."

Y/N felt a surge of desperation. She had to break through to him, had to find a way to make him see reason, "Kai, please. I know you. I know there's still a part of you that cares, a part of you that doesn't want to be the villain."

Kai's eyes narrowed, "It's too late for that, Y/N. It's too late for anything but this." He turned away, and for the first time, Y/N saw a hint of uncertainty in his movements.

"Kai, wait!" she cried, struggling against her restraints, "You don't have to be alone. We can find another way. Together."

He paused, his back to her, and for a moment, Y/N thought she had reached him. Then he shook his head, shoulders stiffened. "I'm sorry, Y/N. But this's the only way I know how to be."

And with that, he walked out of the door, leaving Y/N bound and desperate in the cruel world. Her heart went heavy, knowing she had come so close yet so far from being able to save him. As the door closed behind him, she vowed she would not give up. She would find a way to stop him, to save him, even if it were the last thing she did.

__________________ __________________ _____________

Read Part 2 here >>> Part 2

[so-long-soldier-writes]

drabble #16 - gotcha in the nick of time

kai parker x reader | requested (ish)

summary: kai's out and alaric's seeking revenge. luckily, you find him right before it's too late.

tags: based on s2e13; no warnings

word count: 859

a/n: i've had this in my drafts since february! and am only posting it now bc a legacies!kai was requested. i'm not the biggest legacies fan, but i did watch the first season and a half of the second (a while ago), so i wrote a few things for it back then.

“Oh, you dork… what have you gotten yourself into?!” You manage to joke, not at all focusing on your heart that’s dropped to your toes. Twenty feet away is the love of your life, chained to a wooden post by none other than Hope Mikaelson. She had raced inside the school looking for Dorian, who would alert Alaric, but in the midst of their conversation, you were able to slip out of sight and into the old warehouse. It wasn’t news that Kai was out of the prison world, but your fellow teachers had been working hard at keeping the two of you apart. You doubt he even knows you’re right under his nose. 

This doubt proves true when he looks up at the sound of your voice. Restless eyes soften immediately, and he stands up as straight as he can despite the chains. “Y/N… What are you doing here?”

You hurry towards him, done taking in his sight and now needing him in your arms. “I should be asking you that. How’d you get out?”

“My careless little niece didn’t keep a good enough eye on the ascendant when she got stuck there.” He pants, fighting his chains. Your hands are on him, looking for any give, but he still can’t touch you. “Y/N?”

“Hm?”

“How are you here? How did you know to find me here?”

“I work here.”

“What?!”

“I teach. I didn’t want to; I didn’t want to help Ric do shit after everything that happened, but when he asked, I figured I could keep an eye on him. Keep an eye on the twins. Try my best to prevent the merge, if it came time for that before I could get you out.” You grab a nearby board and sandwich it between the post and the chains, then start to pull. “Talk started going around lately… Josie was getting nosy about Gemini stuff; Ric was getting antsy about telling her anything. Dorian and Ric both have been keeping me in the dark about anything involving you. But then Ric sent Sebastian to the prison world, opening a can of worms, and then suddenly Hope runs in, saying she’s got you tied up down here, and I managed to slip out before either could notice. But something tells me Ric is on his way for revenge, so I need these damn chains to loosen so I can get you out.” 

With one last rush of adrenaline, you finally pull them just enough to give him some wiggle room. He uses his heretic strength, albeit weakened, to break free, then immediately envelopes you in a hug. For a moment, you stumble, but he’s holding on so tight that there’s no way you’d fall. Kai kisses your forehead. The hairs of his beard tickle your skin, and you giggle. 

“That’s new,” you mutter into his chest. 

“Perk of this prison world that I didn’t have in the old one.” He finally releases his grip on you, but keeps a hold of your shoulders. “God, you’re still as beautiful as the day I met you.” Then his eyebrows arch. “Have you even aged?”

You pause, not sure how to break the news of your vampirism to him. “I, um, not really.”

In matters both lucky and unlucky, the sudden sound of footsteps down the hall interrupts your conversation. 

“We have to go!” You grab his sleeve and begin pulling him out of the warehouse.

Kai follows, curious question forgotten. “Yes, quickly. Where to?”

“Anywhere.”

“But what about your job?”

“Fuck it. All I’ve ever wanted is to have you back; I’m not losing you again.”

“Well… I know a safe place we can lay low.”

“Take me there. I don’t need this job, or this life. I just need you.”

Dorian’s voice stops you in your tracks. For a brief moment, you listen. “Hope said he was here. She said he was chained.”

Alaric is armed with an axe. The sight makes you both swallow hard. “He was here all right. The chains are here, but definitely not holding him.” They share eye contact for a moment, then… “Where’s Y/N?”

“She was in her office when Hope came to get me.”

“Are you sure?”

“Pretty sure. Would she really let him out? Even if he’d come for Josie and Lizzie?”

“She would do anything for him, no matter the cost. I should’ve taken better measures; I should’ve locked her up. Damn it!”

“Alright, so what’s next?”

“I’ve got a friend I can call who’s a hunter; the guy that found Raph and Landon when they ran away. But in the meantime, we need to lock up, and alert the students to be careful.”

“Guessing we should not tell them their teacher’s run off with your daughters’ crazy uncle?”

“Yeah… that would be best.”

You pull on Kai’s sleeve one more time, breaking his focus from the mens’ conversation. 

“Come on,” you mutter, “let’s get the hell out of here.”

A million questions run through his head, but he’ll ask them later. For now, he just takes one more look at your face and smiles. “Okay.”

[writingsoftarnishedsilver]

Budding Relationships | Sebastian Sallow x OC #28

Art above is by @oladcnfthb on Twitter (thank you to ravenquills for helping me figure out who made this beautiful fanart!)

Summary: While on a date in London with Alaric, Sebastian distracts himself with sixth-year Hufflepuff, Chelsea Featherstone. Regretful of his actions, Sebastian retreats to the Undercroft where he finds a distraught Ominis.

Words: ~11,000

Tags: Explicit Smut, Not Actually Unrequited Love, Mutual Pining, Friends To Lovers, Slow Burn, Longing, Jealousy, Unspoken Feelings, Angst, Romance, Pureblood Politics, Ominis x Anne

Timeline: Early November

Read more stories about Sebastian and Evangeline Read on AO3

Weeks had passed since Evangeline’s unsettling visit to the Ministry, and still, there had been no updates. Every morning, she’d wait for an owl carrying news, her stomach twisting with both hope and dread, but the silence remained unbroken. The Ministry’s promises of “clarity” and “verification” felt increasingly hollow as days turned into weeks. Yet, even as the unanswered questions gnawed at her, she kept herself busy, forcing normalcy into her routine. She had to if she wanted to stay sane.

Her nightmares, however, refused to let her forget. Each night, her sleep was plagued with visions of the repository, the crackling energy and oppressive shadows seeping into her subconscious like an uninvited guest. The figures in her dreams—blurry, indistinct—murmured words she couldn’t understand but instinctively feared. On those nights, she woke drenched in cold sweat, her hands trembling as if the ancient magic that flickered faintly in her dreams still lingered in her veins.

But Evangeline had learned to hide her exhaustion well. A combination of Pepperup Potions and a repertoire of charms kept her looking composed, even as the toll wore her thin.

By November, however, life outside of her nightmares had taken an unexpected turn. After her duel with Alaric, it had taken ample coaxing and teasing persistence, but Evangeline had agreed to go on a proper date with him. At first, she’d been hesitant. Alaric’s role as an auror recruiter at Hogwarts—leading workshops and answering students’ questions about Ministry careers—had made him feel too much like an authority figure. Even after his rounds had ended, the idea of dating someone who had once seemed tied to the Ministry felt odd. She’d told him as much.

“It’s just strange, isn’t it?” she had said that first evening in the Three Broomsticks, her hands fiddling nervously with the edge of her butterbeer glass. “You were here as a... professional. I don’t know—it feels like crossing some invisible line.”

Alaric, ever good-natured, had only laughed. “Evangeline, if anything, I was just a glorified guest lecturer. Besides,” he added with a playful smirk, “And I'm done with that post now. Surely that clears me of any lingering professional ties.”

It had been that lighthearted charm that eventually wore down her reservations, not to mention her never-ending need to convince herself she could get over Sebastian.

Their first few dates were simple—walks through Hogsmeade, dinners at the Three Broomsticks, conversations that left her surprisingly at ease. Alaric had a way of making her forget her worries, his warmth cutting through the storm clouds that seemed to follow her lately.

There was a confidence about him, not cocky but quietly assured, as though he knew exactly how to navigate any situation. From the way he carried himself to the warmth in his deep voice, the way his dark eyes sparkled with humor when he teased her, Alaric was, in many ways, everything she thought she should want.

He was undeniably handsome too, in a way that turned heads without effort. Pale skin framed by neatly combed black hair that fell just above his collar, paired with sharp, angular features that seemed to belong more to an oil painting than a person. His height—easily over six feet—and broad, athletic build gave him a commanding presence, yet his easy smile softened what might otherwise have been intimidating.

As the waiter poured their wine tonight, Alaric thanked the server with genuine warmth, his charm extending even to the most mundane interactions.

“What are you thinking?” Alaric asked, leaning forward slightly. His dark eyes studied her, his smile playful yet tinged with curiosity.

Evangeline blinked, caught off guard. “Oh, nothing,” she lied, taking a sip of her wine to buy herself a moment. “Just… how different this feels. In a good way.”

His brow arched, a flicker of amusement crossing his face. “Different from what?”

“From everything,” she said quickly, hoping to steer the conversation away from comparisons she didn’t want to vocalize. “I mean, I’ve never really done this before. Dates in London, fancy wine... It’s all new to me.”

Alaric chuckled, his deep voice resonating warmly. “Fancy wine,” he repeated, holding up his glass and giving it a small swirl. “You’re easily impressed.”

She rolled her eyes, a smile tugging at her lips despite herself. “You know what I mean.”

“I do,” he said, his expression softening. “And I’m glad you came tonight. It’s nice to see you like this.”

“Like what?” she asked, tilting her head.

“Relaxed,” he said simply. “You carry a lot on your shoulders, Evangeline. I can see it, even if you hide it well. But tonight, you... seem lighter.”

She hesitated, unsure how to respond. Evangeline had certainly been stressed given the Ministry’s silence and the weight of her unresolved nightmares, and she wasn’t used to someone noticing those parts of her—especially someone she hadn’t known for long. Alaric had a way of making her feel seen in a way that was both comforting and unsettling.

“Maybe it’s the wine,” she said finally, her tone teasing in an attempt to deflect.

He laughed, the sound rich and warm, "Perhaps."

They continued talking, the conversation drifting to lighter topics—his training, her plans after Hogwarts. Alaric shared a story about a chaotic practice duel with one of his instructors, and Evangeline found herself laughing more freely than she had in weeks.

“And that’s how I ended up disarming myself instead of my opponent,” he finished, shaking his head. “Safe to say I didn’t win that round.”

Evangeline laughed, her hand lightly covering her mouth. “I can’t imagine you being anything less than perfect at dueling. You’re practically a walking recruitment poster.”

Alaric raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. “I appreciate that, but even I have my off days.”

“Hard to believe,” she said, still smiling.

His expression softened, his dark eyes meeting hers across the table. "I know I probably sound like a broken record by now, Evangeline, but you really would excel as an Auror."

Evangeline tilted her head slightly, smirking. "I thought you were finished your recruiting rounds."

Alaric chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "Fair point," he conceded, a playful glint in his eyes. "But can you blame me? It's hard to turn off the recruiter mode when I see someone with your potential."

Evangeline raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Is that so? Should I be expecting a formal offer letter delivered by owl any day now?"

He laughed, the sound warm and genuine. "Maybe not an offer letter, but perhaps an invitation to consider all your options." He leaned forward slightly, his tone turning more sincere. "I just think you could make a real difference as an Auror. You've got the skill, the instincts, and the courage. It's worth thinking about."

She looked down at her hands, tracing the rim of her glass thoughtfully. "I appreciate that," she said softly. "I'm... well, I'm certainly thinking about it."

"Take all the time you need," he assured her. "No pressure. Just know that whatever you choose, you'll excel."

She smiled appreciatively. "Thank you, Alaric."

When their meals arrived, steak and potatoes for him, and a hearty mushroom risotto for her, the conversation flowed with an easy rhythm. Evangeline found herself relaxing more with each passing moment. Alaric was engaging without being overbearing, his stories peppered with just the right amount of humor to keep her smiling. He had a knack for weaving charm into even the most mundane details of his life, and she couldn’t deny how refreshing it was to be in his company.

“You mentioned Diagon Alley,” Alaric said between bites, his dark eyes glinting with curiosity. “Where’s your favorite spot there?”

Evangeline paused, twirling a forkful of risotto as she considered her answer. “I think it’s a tie between Flourish and Blotts and the Magical Menagerie. One feeds the mind, the other... well, it feeds my love for anything furry or feathery.”

Alaric grinned. “Ah, a scholar and an animal lover. Dangerous combination.”

“And you?” she asked, tilting her head slightly. “What’s your go-to spot?”

“Quality Quidditch Supplies,” he admitted with a sheepish shrug. “I spent way too much time there as a teenager, drooling over the latest brooms I couldn’t afford.”

Evangeline chuckled. “Let me guess—Keeper?”

“Chaser, actually,” he corrected, his grin widening. “Though I wasn’t exactly a star player. I was more enthusiastic than skilled.”

“I’m sure you were better than you’re letting on,” she teased. “You strike me as someone who doesn’t do anything halfway.”

His expression softened, his gaze lingering on her for a beat longer than she expected. “You’re not wrong,” he said quietly. “But enough about me. What about you? Any hidden talents I should know about?”

“Hidden talents?” she echoed, pretending to think deeply. “Well, I can consume an alarming amount of chocolate frogs in one sitting. Does that count?”

Alaric laughed, shaking his head. “Impressive, but I was hoping for something a little less... confectionary.”

Evangeline smirked. “I’ll have to disappoint you, then. My talents are mostly practical. Spellwork, dueling, surviving impossible situations…”

“And excelling at all of them, no doubt,” he added, his tone light but sincere.

She felt her cheeks warm under his praise and quickly took a sip of her wine to hide her flustered expression. "Well, I'm still alive so I suppose I'm doing alright."

By the time they finished their meal, the warm ambiance of the had café wrapped around them like a cocoon. It felt like a rare sense of peace—a brief reprieve from the chaos of Evangeline's thoughts and the weight of her unanswered questions.

Alaric paid the bill and they stepped outside, the cool November air nipping at her cheeks. She instinctively pulled her coat tighter around her shoulders, and Alaric offered her his arm, a gentlemanly gesture that she accepted with a small smile.

As they strolled through the quiet London streets toward the Floo station, Evangeline found herself enjoying the simplicity of the moment. The clatter of her heels against the cobblestones and the faint hum of the city offered a strange yet welcome sense of normalcy. Alaric’s arm was solid and warm beneath her hand, his presence steady and reassuring.

They reached the Floo station, the faint glow of green flames from a nearby hearth casting flickering shadows on their faces. Alaric turned to face her, his dark eyes catching the light in a way that made her heart flutter unexpectedly.

“I had a really great time tonight,” he said, his voice low and sincere.

“So did I,” Evangeline replied, her lips curving into a soft smile. “Thank you for dinner. It was lovely.”

“It was my pleasure,” he said, brushing a strand of hair from her face. His fingers lingered for a fraction of a second longer than necessary, and she felt her breath hitch slightly.

Their gazes locked, the moment stretching out between them, and Evangeline felt a flicker of nervous energy in her chest. She wasn’t sure if she wanted him to kiss her or if she was relieved when he took a small step back instead.

“Well,” she began, her voice softer than she intended, “I should—”

“Evangeline,” Alaric interrupted gently, his tone hesitant but purposeful. “I know it’s late, and you’ve probably had a long day, but… would you like to come home with me?”

She blinked, caught off guard by his question. The faintest hint of a blush crept up his neck as he quickly added, “No pressure, of course. I just… I suppose I'm just not ready for our night to end."

Evangeline stared at Alaric, her breath catching in her throat as the weight of his words settled between them. A past version of herself—the one who’d waited, hoped, and clung to the idea that her sacrifices for Sebastian might someday matter—would have said no. She’d have forced a polite smile, excused herself, and taken the Floo back to Hogwarts with her heart quietly aching, believing that her patience and devotion might eventually mean something.

But that Evangeline was gone. Or, at least, fading.

Her mind flickered back to that day weeks ago when she’d gone to the Ministry, nerves stretched taut and heart aching with uncertainty. She’d hoped to find Sebastian in the Undercroft when she returned to the castle, hoped to lean into his reassurance, and instead, she’d seen him with her.

The Hufflepuff girl.

Chelsea.

Evangeline had learned her name through whispers in the halls, through murmured conversations she hadn’t meant to overhear. Chelsea, who had seemed so sweet and unassuming at first glance but who now, in Evangeline’s mind, felt like a storm cloud that refused to dissipate. Chelsea, who had been spending more and more nights with Sebastian. Chelsea, who, Evangeline realized, probably didn’t have to fight for Sebastian’s attention. Or his affection.

And Sebastian? He probably hadn’t thought about Evangeline at all. Not when he was with the pretty little Hufflepuff. Not when he was sneaking off with her under the cover of darkness. Certainly not now.

Evangeline felt her chest tighten, a knot of anger and grief she’d been trying so hard to bury threatening to rise to the surface. Why was she still doing this to herself? Why was she still shaping her decisions around someone who would never choose her?

The realization hit her like a wave, sharp and cold. She wasn’t going to be the girl waiting in the wings anymore. If Sebastian didn’t want her, then she wasn’t going to keep living her life as though his opinion was the axis it revolved around. It wasn’t fair to herself, and it wasn’t fair to Alaric, who was standing in front of her now, offering her something real. Something present.

She straightened her shoulders, meeting Alaric’s gaze. His expression was open, sincere, tinged with just enough vulnerability to remind her that this wasn’t some grand gesture or expectation. He was simply asking for more time with her. So she smiled, meeting Alaric's deep gaze.

"Sure," she said, "I'd like that."

Alaric blinked, as though he hadn’t expected her to say yes, but the surprise melted into a smile—warm and inviting, like the man himself. “You’re sure?” he asked, giving her one last chance to change her mind.

Evangeline nodded, “I’m am.”

Without another word, Alaric offered her his arm again, and this time, when she looped hers through his, it felt different. Less hesitant. More certain.

~

The castle was quiet, its usual hum of activity dulled by the late hour. In one of the unused classrooms on the fourth floor, Sebastian sat on the edge of a desk, his shirt half-unbuttoned, his hair tousled from hurried hands. Across the room, Chelsea paced, her expression a mixture of frustration and confusion as she wrapped her arms around herself.

“This isn’t working,” she said finally, her voice breaking the heavy silence.

Sebastian leaned back on his palms, his expression unreadable. “I don’t know what you mean.”

Chelsea stopped pacing, turning to face him with an incredulous look. “Don’t play dumb, Sebastian. You’ve been distant all night."

Sebastian sighed, raking a hand through his already messy hair. He hadn’t planned for this—hadn’t expected Chelsea to grow attached or start questioning the arrangement they’d so clearly agreed on. She was a nice girl, sure. But she wasn’t…

He cut the thought off before it could form.

“You knew what this was,” he said, his tone careful but firm. “From the beginning, I told you—this isn’t serious. It’s just… fun.”

Chelsea crossed her arms, her eyes narrowing. “And that's fine, but tonight, you've barely even looked at me. It’s like you weren’t even here.” She took a step closer, her voice softening. “Sebastian, I’m not asking for the world. I just want to know what’s going on with you.”

Sebastian closed his eyes briefly, exhaling through his nose. He felt the weight of her gaze on him, but he couldn’t meet it. Couldn’t bear the unspoken question hanging between them. Because the truth—the real truth—was something he couldn’t admit. Not to Chelsea.

“I’ve just got a lot on my mind,” he said finally, his voice low. It wasn’t a lie, but it wasn’t the whole truth either.

Chelsea tilted her head, her frustration softening into something more vulnerable. “Is it about her?” she asked quietly.

Sebastian’s eyes snapped to hers, his chest tightening at the mention. “Who?"

“Evangeline,” Chelsea said, her voice steady despite the flicker of hurt in her expression.

Sebastian groaned, running a hand down his face. Of course it was about Evangeline, but for Merlin's sake, it would be nice if Chelsea could stop pressing him about it every damn time they hooked up.

"I've told you a hundred times," Sebastian retorted, "Evie and I are just friends!"

Chelsea flinched at the sharpness in his tone, her lips pressing together in a pout that Sebastian immediately regretted seeing. Her eyes shimmered, not with tears but with the kind of wounded determination that made him want to groan all over again.

“I know what you’ve said,” Chelsea replied, her voice soft, almost meek. “But you don’t act like she’s just a friend, Sebastian. Not with how you talk about her, or how you look at her—”

“Oh, for the love of—” Sebastian pushed off the desk, raking both hands through his hair as he paced the room. “I don’t ‘look’ at her any way, Chelsea. She’s been my best friend since we were fifteen. That’s it. That’s all it is.”

Chelsea trailed after him, her movements timid but insistent. “I don’t think that’s true,” she said, her words gentle but stubborn.

Sebastian spun around, his frustration finally boiling over. “Why do you care so much, huh? What does it matter to you?”

The words came out harsher than he intended, and Chelsea recoiled slightly, but her reaction only stoked his irritation. She shouldn’t care. She shouldn’t even be asking. She’d known the deal from the start—knew this wasn’t supposed to be anything serious, knew that he wasn’t capable of anything more. Not with her. Not with anyone except for Evie.

But Chelsea didn’t retreat. Instead, she stood there, her arms crossed tightly over her chest, her expression a mix of defiance and something painfully vulnerable. “It matters,” she said quietly, “because I like you, Sebastian. I like you more than I should.”

Sebastian froze, his jaw tightening. “Chelsea—”

“And I know you don’t feel the same way,” she continued, cutting him off before he could finish. “You’ve made that perfectly clear. But... can you at least understand why I'd want some reassurance?"

Sebastian let out a frustrated sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose as he processed Chelsea’s words. Her honesty had thrown him off balance, leaving him standing there like a fool, his irritation fading into something softer—something he wasn’t sure he was ready to face.

“I get it,” he said finally, his tone quieter, less sharp. He turned to face her fully, his shoulders tense but his expression softening. “I do, Chelsea. I understand why you want to know.”

Chelsea’s arms relaxed slightly, her posture less guarded as she studied him. “Do you?” she asked, her voice tinged with a mix of hope and skepticism.

Sebastian nodded, stepping closer. “I do,” he repeated, his voice steady this time. “And I promise, Evangeline and I have never been anything but friends."

Chelsea’s lips curved into a faint, tentative smile, her gaze flicking back to his face. “Now, was that so hard?” she teased gently, the tension in her voice easing as she took a step closer. Her dark brown eyes softened, darkening slightly as she studied him, the distance between them growing smaller with each heartbeat.

“Chelsea,” he said, his voice low, his hand brushing against hers where it rested on his chest. “Look, I just—”

She leaned up, cutting him off with a soft press of her lips against his. The kiss was gentle at first, careful, almost hesitant, as though waiting for him to pull away. But when he didn’t, Chelsea deepened it, her hand sliding up to rest against the back of his neck.

Sebastian tried to lose himself in it all, letting the physicality anchor him to the present. Chelsea’s hands were warm against his skin, her touch insistent as she pushed closer, but his mind was already slipping away, betraying him at every turn.

Evangeline.

The image of her from earlier that evening flickered behind his closed eyelids—her hair cascading over her shoulders, the faint blush on her cheeks as she adjusted her cloak before stepping into the Floo. She’d looked radiant, her excitement for her date with Alaric unmistakable. The thought had twisted something deep in his chest then, and now it gnawed at him like an old wound reopened.

Chelsea’s hands slid up his chest, her fingers deftly unfastening the remaining buttons of his shirt. She pushed him back until he hit the edge of one of the desks, her lips trailing down his jawline with a soft murmur of his name. His hands moved automatically, gripping her hips, guiding her closer, but the actions were mechanical—empty.

He let out a low hum, trying to drown out the intrusive thoughts, to focus on the warmth of Chelsea’s body pressed against his, the faint scent of her perfume filling the air. But it wasn’t her.

It wasn’t Evangeline.

Chelsea’s hands moved lower, fumbling with the buckle of his belt. Her breath was warm against his neck as she whispered something he didn’t catch, her voice a mix of urgency and affection that only deepened the ache in his chest.

Sebastian’s hands stilled on her waist, his body betraying him as it responded to her touch on autopilot. But his mind refused to follow. All he could see was Evie, her hazel eyes sparkling with an emotion he couldn’t place, couldn’t touch, couldn’t have.

Small hands tugged at his trousers, pulling them lower on Sebastian’s hips as Chelsea’s warm breath ghosted over his skin. He gripped the edge of the desk behind him, his knuckles whitening as he willed his mind blank, to focus on the sensations instead of the storm in his chest. This was what he wanted—or at least, it was what he told himself he needed. A distraction. Something to drown out everything else.

Chelsea’s fingers skimmed along his thighs, her touch light but insistent, and Sebastian closed his eyes, trying to lose himself in the moment. But the harder he tried to shut everything out, the louder his thoughts became, the more vivid the images he didn’t want to see.

Evangeline.

Her name whispered through his mind again like a spell, unbidden and undeniable. He could almost hear the way she said his name—her tone teasing one moment, exasperated the next. And when he closed his eyes, it wasn’t Chelsea he saw. It was Evie, kneeling in front of him, her hands skimming over his skin, her touch setting fire to every nerve in his body. His chest ached with the weight of it, with the cruel sweetness of imagining something he could never have.

Chelsea's tongue swiped over his length, and Sebastian’s breath hitched, his fingers gripping the edge of the desk so tightly he thought the wood might splinter. But it wasn’t her—not really. It wasn’t Chelsea. In his mind, it was Evie, her hazel eyes looking up at him, her lips brushing against his skin, her hands igniting every inch they touched.

He squeezed his eyes shut tighter, his jaw clenching as if the sheer force of willpower could block out the truth. This was wrong. So wrong. But the moment he tried to pull himself back into reality, the fantasy rushed in to consume him.

He could see her so clearly—Evie’s soft, flushed cheeks, the way her dark hair would fall over her shoulders, the way her lips would part just slightly as she whispered his name. Sebastian. The thought left an ache so deep it threatened to pull him under.

Chelsea’s movements grew more fervent, her hands pressing against his thighs as she worked, but Sebastian wasn’t here anymore. He was lost in a world where Evie wanted him the way he wanted her, where she was the one bringing him to the edge with a devotion he’d only ever dreamed of.

Sebastian’s body reacted instinctively, his breaths coming quicker, shallower. Tension was coiling in his abdomen, release inching closer as the fantasy consumed him entirely. Every touch, every movement—it was Evangeline, her phantom presence filling the gaps, replacing reality with something he could never have. His breaths grew increasingly ragged as every nerve burned with a cruel mix of pleasure and self-loathing.

Sebastian’s chest heaved as the sharp, all-encompassing wave of release surged through him, his head falling back, eyes clenched shut. The vision of Evie lingered like an ache, her imagined touch still ghosting over his skin even as the moment reached its peak. For a fleeting second, he felt weightless, suspended in the fantasy he had conjured so vividly.

And then Chelsea spoke.

“Sebastian,” she murmured, her voice soft, tender, far too real and far too different from Evie's.

The sound shattered the illusion, pulling him back to the present with brutal force. His eyes snapped open, the glow of euphoria fading as quickly as it had come.

The guilt hit him like a tidal wave, crashing over every nerve. Chelsea’s leaned up, brushing her lips over his abdomen with a smile that was too warm, too intimate for what this was supposed to be. She liked him. This meant something to her. And here he was, selfishly letting her give him what he wanted while he thought of someone else.

“Chelsea—” he started, his voice rough and uneven, but she cut him off with a small, almost shy smile.

“How was it?" she asked softly, her hands stilling for a moment as she looked up at him.

Sebastian’s throat tightened. “It was…” He paused, his hands gripping the desk as he struggled for the right words, ones that wouldn’t betray the mess inside him. “It was good, Chelsea. Really.”

Her smile widened, her confidence bolstered by his answer. She leaned up to kiss him again, her lips brushing over his in a way that was tender, affectionate, and far too intimate than he could handle right now.

Sebastian couldn’t do this. He couldn’t keep leading her on like this, letting her believe there was something between them when all he could think about was Evie. But how could he tell her that? How could he break this fragile connection they’d built without shattering her completely? Chelsea didn’t deserve that. She didn’t deserve to wrapped up in him, either—not like this, not when he was using her to fill a void.

“You’re quiet again,” Chelsea murmured against his lips, her fingers brushing over his cheek.

Sebastian forced a smile, his heart sinking as he nodded. "Sorry," he robotically tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, "I'm just tired and that... took a lot out of me."

She seemed to accept that, her expression softening as she pressed another kiss to his jaw. “Then maybe we should call it a night,” she said gently, her hand resting over his chest. “We can talk more tomorrow.”

He nodded again, relief and guilt warring within him. “Yeah. Tomorrow.”

Chelsea pulled back, her movements unhurried as she adjusted her blouse and smoothed her skirt. She glanced at him one last time, her smile lingering as though she believed this was the start of something, not the end.

But the moment she was out of sight, Sebastian was practically sprinting to the Undercroft. His footsteps echoed through the castle’s quiet halls, the sound sharp and jarring in the oppressive stillness. His chest felt heavy, his breaths shallow, as if the weight of his actions were physically crushing him. He ran a hand through his disheveled hair, frustration and disgust twisting in his gut like a vice.

What the hell was that?

He couldn’t escape the memory of Chelsea’s smile, the soft look in her eyes as if this had been something meaningful. Something real. And he’d let her believe it—let her think he cared more than he did. Because the truth was unbearable: he didn’t care. The only thing he’d been thinking about, the only thing that had driven him to let it happen, was Evie.

He cursed under his breath, his pace quickening as if outrunning his thoughts would make a difference. The image of her with Alaric—laughing, smiling, looking at him like he was the center of her world—burned in his mind like a brand. It had been eating away at him all night, the sharp pang of jealousy twisting deeper with every passing second. And instead of dealing with it like a rational person, he’d buried it. Buried it in someone else.

By the time he reached the entrance to the Undercroft, his hands were trembling with the force of his emotions. He pressed his palm against the cold stone wall, the familiar mechanism clicking into place as the hidden door swung open. The cool, dim air of the Undercroft hit him like a wave, and for a moment, he just stood there, staring into the darkness.

He needed to think. To breathe. To figure out how he was going to fix this mess—if that was even possible.

But as he stepped inside, he froze.

Ominis was already there, sitting on one of the old stone benches with his head in his hands. His wand lay discarded beside him, the faint, pale light it usually emitted flickering weakly before fading entirely. He looked... defeated.

Whatever storm Sebastian had been caught in, Ominis clearly had one of his own.

“Ominis?” Sebastian said softly, hesitantly, his voice echoing slightly in the cavernous space.

Ominis didn’t move at first, his shoulders tense, his breathing uneven. When he finally lifted his head, his pale eyes—unseeing yet so expressive—turned toward Sebastian, and the weight of whatever he was carrying was written all over his face.

“What is it?” Sebastian asked, stepping closer, his own turmoil momentarily pushed aside. “What happened?”

Ominis let out a bitter laugh, the sound hollow and sharp. "The usual."

Sebastian frowned, his chest tightening at the sheer exhaustion in his friend’s voice. He sat down beside him, leaving enough space for Ominis to feel comfortable but close enough to show he wasn’t going anywhere.

“Your father?

Ominis nodded, his jaw tight.

Sebastian’s stomach dropped. “What did he do this time?"

Ominis exhaled sharply, as though trying to steady himself. “I told Anne how I felt a few weeks ago,” he began, his tone quiet, measured. “I couldn’t keep it to myself any longer. And she... she said she felt the same.”

Sebastian’s eyebrows lifted, and for a brief moment, a flicker of something warm pierced through the tension. “She did?”

Ominis nodded, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. “She did,” he echoed. “We decided to court. Secretly, of course—at least for a while. We needed time to... figure things out and it was... wonderful, Sebastian. It is wonderful. Merlin, she's everything to me."

Sebastian smiled faintly, a hint of pride swelling in his chest for his friend. Ominis deserved that happiness. Anne deserved it too. But the smile faded as Ominis’s expression darkened again.

“But then,” Ominis continued, his voice growing heavier, “I knew I had to tell my family. It was only a matter of time before they found out on their own, and I didn’t want Anne dragged into their schemes without warning. So, I told them.”

Sebastian leaned forward slightly, his eyes narrowing. “And how did that go?”

Ominis let out a bitter laugh, shaking his head. “As you might expect. My father was furious. He called her every name under the sun— ‘a taint on the Gaunt legacy,’ ‘an embarrassment.’” His voice wavered, and he swallowed hard, his hands tightening into fists again. “He told me if I didn’t end things with her immediately, he'd disown me and.... and he’d make sure she never got the care she needs.”

Sebastian’s blood ran cold. “What?”

“He’s already threatened to contact St. Mungo’s,” Ominis said, his voice hollow. “Threatened to pull strings, to make life as difficult as possible for her. He has the means, Sebastian. And the connections.”

Sebastian’s fists clenched at his sides, anger surging through him like a fire. “That bastard,” he growled. “How can he do this? How can he—”

“Because he's a Gaunt,” Ominis interrupted sharply, his voice bitter and tired. “And because he doesn’t care about anything but preserving the family’s twisted ideals. Anne is nothing to him but an inconvenience. And I’m—” He stopped, his voice catching in his throat. “I’m just a pawn. A tool to uphold the Gaunt name.”

Sebastian’s chest ached. He leaned forward, gripping Ominis’s shoulder tightly. “You’re not a pawn,” he said firmly. “We’ll figure it out, Ominis. We’ll protect you. And Anne.”

Ominis turned his head slightly, his pale, unseeing eyes narrowing as though searching for something in Sebastian’s face. “How?” he asked quietly, his voice laced with doubt.

“I don’t know yet,” Sebastian admitted, his voice edged with frustration. “But I’ll figure it out. We’ll figure it out. There’s no way I’m letting that vile excuse for a man destroy what you and Anne have.”

Ominis let out a hollow laugh, shaking his head. “You make it sound simple. Like we’re not up against someone who has the entire magical aristocracy in his pocket. My father doesn’t lose, Sebastian. He doesn’t bend.”

“Then we make him break,” Sebastian said fiercely, his jaw tightening. He stopped pacing, his dark eyes burning with determination. “We’ve faced worse.”

“This isn’t like fighting poachers in the Forbidden Forest,” Ominis said, his voice sharp but cracking under the weight of his emotions. “This isn’t about spells or duels. It’s about power. Politics. He’ll ruin Anne, Sebastian. And he’ll ruin me, if I don't do what he asks.”

Sebastian crossed his arms, his expression darkening. “He’s not going to ruin anyone. Anne’s been through enough. So have you. I’ll go to St. Mungo’s myself if I have to, make sure they don’t listen to him. There has to be someone there who—”

Ominis cut him off with a weary sigh, rubbing his temples as if the weight of the conversation was too much to bear. “Do you even hear yourself? Charging into St. Mungo’s, trying to outmaneuver my father? He’s been playing this game longer than we’ve been alive.”

Sebastian’s frustration flared, heat rising to his face as his fists clenched at his sides. The urge to shout, to rail against the injustice of it all, burned in his chest, but he forced himself to take a deep breath. He couldn’t lose his temper—not now. Not when Ominis was already teetering on the edge, his usual calm and collected demeanor replaced by a fragile shell barely holding together.

He needed to ground himself, to focus. This wasn’t about his anger or his helplessness. This was about Ominis, his oldest friend, the person who had stood by him through the worst of his decisions, and Anne, his sister, the only family he had left in the world. Two of the most important people in his universe had finally found something good—something pure—and he wasn’t about to let anyone, not even the monstrous figure that was Noctivus Gaunt, snatch that away from them.

“Listen to me,” Sebastian said firmly, stepping closer. He placed a steadying hand on Ominis’s shoulder, the gesture grounding both of them. "We will find a way. We will. Your father wants you to feel like you don’t have a choice, like every path leads back to him. But you do have a choice, Ominis. You and Anne—you deserve this. You deserve each other."

Ominis let out a hollow laugh, shaking his head. “Deserving it doesn’t make it possible, Sebastian. My father... he’s not just a man. He’s an institution. He has connections, power—enough to make life unbearable for Anne if I don’t do as he says.”

Sebastian’s hand tightened on Ominis’s shoulder, his jaw clenching. “Then we’ll find a way to make sure he doesn’t get the chance. You’re not alone in this, Ominis."

Sebastian stepped back, his mind racing as determination took over. His gaze landed on the old wooden table in the center of the Undercroft, and without hesitation, he strode toward it. Pulling out his wand, he summoned a piece of parchment and a quill from the nearby shelves.

“What are you doing?” Ominis asked, his voice laced with exhaustion and skepticism.

“Writing to Evie,” Sebastian said firmly, dipping the quill into the inkpot with sharp, purposeful movements. “If anyone can come up with a plan, it’s her. She knows how to think outside the box. She’s dealt with impossible odds before. We need her.”

Ominis’s expression hardened, and he let out a frustrated sigh. “Sebastian, she’s on a date. With Alaric. You know that.”

Sebastian froze for half a second, his grip tightening on the quill as the words hit him. But he shook his head, brushing aside the flicker of discomfort that rose in his chest. “So what?” he retorted, his tone edged with impatience. “This is bigger than her date. She’d drop anything to help you, Ominis. To help Anne.”

“That doesn’t mean we should drag her into this right now,” Ominis countered, his voice firmer now. “She’s already dealing with enough—her nightmares, her questions about the Ministry, her future. Do you really want to add this to her plate?”

Sebastian turned to face Ominis, his eyes blazing. “She loves you, Ominis. And she loves Anne. She’d hate it if we kept this from her. Do you really think she’d want us sitting here doing nothing while your father threatens you?”

Ominis pressed his lips into a thin line, clearly torn. He ran a hand through his hair, the tension in his shoulders palpable. “Sebastian,” he said quietly, his voice tinged with a mix of frustration and pleading, “I don’t want to involve her unless we absolutely have to. If there’s another way—”

“There’s no time for ‘another way,’” Sebastian interrupted, slamming the quill down onto the table. “Your father isn’t going to wait for us to figure this out. Every second we waste is a second he could use to ruin everything. And if you lose Anne because we were too stubborn to ask for help, can you live with that?”

Ominis flinched, his face tightening as the words sank in. He didn’t respond, but his silence spoke volumes.

Sebastian turned back to the table, his hand hovering over the parchment as he tried to steady his breathing. “Evie’d want to know,” he said more softly this time, his voice steady but less harsh. “She’d want to help. You know she would.”

Ominis let out a heavy sigh, his shoulders slumping as though the weight of Sebastian’s argument had finally crushed his resistance. “Fine,” he muttered, his voice barely audible. “But don’t make it sound like the world is ending. She’ll panic.”

Sebastian nodded, his jaw tightening with resolve. “I’ll keep it simple.”

With that, he began to write, the quill scratching across the parchment in swift, precise strokes:

Evie, I know you’re busy, but this can’t wait. It’s about Ominis—and Anne. There’s something you need to know. Please come to the Undercroft as soon as you can. —S

He sealed the letter quickly, attaching it to a small, charmed bird he conjured with a flick of his wand. The shimmering, silvery-blue construct took flight immediately, phasing through the stone wall as it sought its recipient.

Sebastian turned back to Ominis, his expression grim but resolute. “She’ll come,” he said simply.

Ominis didn’t respond, but the faintest flicker of gratitude passed across his face as he leaned back against the stone bench, his head tilted upward as though searching for strength in the shadows of the ceiling.

~

Evangeline lay sprawled across the plush, rumpled sheets of Alaric’s bed, her body still tingling from the intensity of their shared moment. A lazy smile curved her lips as she stretched, letting the soft warmth of the room cocoon her. Her clothes were scattered haphazardly across the bedroom—her dress draped over a chair, her coat tossed near the foot of the bed, and her socks in two entirely different corners of the room. The thought made her chuckle softly, a flush creeping over her cheeks.

She could hear the faint hum of the shower running from the bathroom, the sound of water cascading against tiles punctuated by Alaric’s low, tuneless humming. She bit her lip, feeling a thrill of giddy disbelief wash over her.

She’d done it. She’d taken a chance, let herself be vulnerable, and... it had been incredible. Alaric had been patient, attentive, and kind—everything she hadn’t known she needed. Her mind wandered back to the way he’d touched her, the way he’d murmured her name like a prayer, and her stomach flipped with a mix of delight and shy embarrassment.

Evangeline sighed contentedly, rolling onto her side and tucking her hands beneath her cheek as she stared at the small, tastefully decorated room. It was unpretentious and charming, much like Alaric himself—neatly stacked books on the bedside table, a few framed photos on the dresser, and a faint, woody scent lingering in the air that she now associated with him.

But her reverie was interrupted by a faint tapping at the window.

She frowned, sitting up slightly and clutching the sheet to her chest as she glanced toward the sound. There, just outside the window, was a shimmering, enchanted bird, its silvery-blue form faintly glowing against the dark backdrop of the London skyline. Her heart skipped a beat.

“What in the—” she slid out of bed and approached the window. She opened it cautiously, the chill November air brushing against her skin as the bird fluttered inside and landed gracefully on the nightstand.

The moment it touched the surface, it dissolved into a swirl of glittering light, leaving behind a folded piece of parchment sealed with a familiar flourish. Her stomach tightened.

Sebastian.

Evangeline’s fingers trembled slightly as she reached for the letter, the weight of it suddenly feeling heavier than it should. She unfolded it quickly, her eyes scanning the hastily scrawled words, her heart dropping in her chest.

The contentment she’d been basking in shattering like glass. Ominis and Anne. Something was wrong—seriously wrong.

She read the letter again, as if hoping she’d misinterpreted it, but the urgency in Sebastian’s handwriting was unmistakable.

Evangeline swallowed hard, her mind racing. She glanced toward the bathroom, where the sound of the shower still hummed softly. Alaric. How was she supposed to explain this to him?

Her fingers tightened around the letter as guilt and anxiety warred within her. But there was no choice, not really. Ominis and Anne came first. They always would.

She quickly pulled on her discarded clothes, her movements hurried and clumsy as she tried to untangle her coat from the chair. By the time Alaric emerged from the washroom, towel wrapped around his waist and steam curling around him, she was nearly dressed, her back to him as she laced up her boots.

“Evie?” he asked, his voice tinged with confusion. “What’s going on?”

She turned to face him, clutching the letter against her chest. “I—I have to go,” she said quickly, her voice faltering under the weight of his gaze. “It’s... something came up. Something important.”

Alaric frowned, his dark brows knitting together as he stepped closer. “What happened? Are you alright?”

“I’m fine,” she assured him, though her tone was anything but convincing. “It’s just—Ominis. There's something urgent happening, I— I need to check on him."

His frown deepened, and he reached out to brush a strand of hair from her face. “Do you want me to come with you?”

Her heart clenched at the offer, the genuine concern in his eyes almost making her want to say yes. But this wasn’t his fight. It wasn’t his burden to bear. And knowing Ominis, whatever the issue was, it should be kept secret.

“No,” she said softly, shaking her head. “I appreciate it, but... I need to handle this myself."

Alaric’s gaze lingered on her, his worry evident in the tight line of his mouth and the furrow of his brow. Evangeline hated leaving like this, especially after the time they’d just shared, but the urgency in Sebastian’s letter loomed over her like a storm cloud, pushing her forward.

She stepped closer to Alaric, her boots clicking softly against the hardwood floor. His dark eyes searched hers, as though trying to decipher the storm of emotions swirling behind them. She reached up, her fingers brushing against his jawline as she tugged him down toward her.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered, her voice soft but filled with conviction

Before he could respond, she closed the gap between them, pressing her lips to his in a kiss. Her hands slid up to the nape of his neck, her fingers tangling briefly in the damp strands of his hair and he responded in kind, his hands resting on her waist, grounding her even as her mind raced ahead to what awaited her.

When she pulled back, her lips tingling and her heart aching with the weight of the goodbye, she offered him a small, bittersweet smile. “Thank you,” she said softly, “For understanding.”

Alaric’s hands lingered on her waist, his thumb brushing against the fabric of her blouse. “Of course,” he said, his voice steady despite the flicker of unease in his eyes. “Just... be careful, Evie.”

She nodded, stepping back reluctantly. Her fingers tightened around Sebastian’s letter as she turned toward the door, her mind already shifting to the quickest route back to the castle. She couldn’t afford to waste another second.

With a sharp inhale, she closed her eyes and focused, the sensation of Apparition washing over her like a rush of icy water. The world twisted and pulled, and in the next instant, she was standing just outside the edge of the Hogwarts grounds, the towering silhouette of the castle rising against the night sky.

The cold November air bit at her skin, and she clutched her coat tighter around herself, her breaths visible in the crisp air. She began the brisk walk toward the castle, her thoughts racing with every step. Whatever this was about, it couldn’t wait—not if Sebastian had reached out to her like this.

~

The Undercroft was quiet and tense, the air thick worry. Ominis and Sebastian were seated on the low stone benches, their voices barely above whispers as they went back and forth, trying to piece together a plan amidst the impossible circumstances.

Sebastian leaned forward, his elbows resting on his knees, his jaw clenched tight as he stared at the floor. “We can’t just wait for him to make his move, Ominis. If we don’t act first—”

“Act first, and do what, exactly?” Ominis interrupted, his voice sharp despite the exhaustion behind it. “He’ll see us coming before we’ve even had the chance to draw wands.”

Sebastian’s retort was cut short by the sound of the secret door shifting open. Both boys turned toward the entrance, their expressions shifting from frustration to surprise as Evangeline stepped inside. Her cheeks were flushed from the cold, a soft pink tinting her pale skin. Her dark hair was slightly tousled, hinting at her hurried movements—or something else entirely.

Sebastian’s gaze lingered on her a moment too long, his sharp eyes catching every detail. The faint creases in her dress, the way her hair was mussed, the flush in her cheeks that didn’t seem entirely from the brisk November air. His stomach twisted, jealousy and guilt battling for dominance, but he pushed it aside. She was here. That was what mattered.

“Evie,” he said, standing quickly and stepping toward her. “You came.”

“Of course I came,” she replied, her voice slightly breathless as she shrugged off her coat. Her hazel eyes darted between him and Ominis, taking in their tense postures and the palpable unease that filled the room. “What’s going on?"

Ominis stood as well, his pale eyes narrowing as he focused in her direction. “You didn’t have to come tonight, Evie. You had plans.”

She waved a hand dismissively, stepping further into the room. “Plans can wait. You can’t.” Her tone left no room for argument, and Ominis’s lips pressed into a thin line, though he didn’t push back.

Sebastian’s jaw tightened as he watched her, the resolve in her eyes, the way she carried herself despite whatever she’d been pulled away from. She always showed up for them—for him, for Ominis, for Anne. And yet, all he could think about was how she’d been with Alaric, how she’d probably kissed him goodbye before rushing to the Undercroft.

Evangeline turned to Ominis, her expression softening slightly as she placed a hand on his arm. “Are you alright?”

Ominis hesitated, his throat working as he swallowed hard. “No,” he admitted quietly. “But I will be. I just... I need your help. Anne needs your help.”

Her brows furrowed in concern, and she moved closer to him. “Of course. Whatever you need, I’m here.”

Ominis’s lips parted, but for a moment, no words came out. He seemed to be grappling with how to phrase what had clearly shaken him so deeply. Finally, he exhaled, his voice uneven.

“It’s my father,” Ominis began, his pale eyes tilting downward as though the weight of the confession was too heavy to bear. “He knows about Anne and me.”

Evangeline stilled, her hazel eyes widening slightly. “You told him?”

“I had to,” Ominis replied, his voice thick with frustration. “I thought... I thought he might at least try to respect my decision if I was honest. If I presented it as something that was already settled.” His laugh was hollow, bitter. “I should’ve known better.”

“What did he say?” she asked softly, her tone careful but laced with dread.

Ominis pressed his lips into a tight line, his fists clenching at his sides. “He called her unworthy, a disgrace. He said she would taint the Gaunt name.”

Evangeline’s jaw tightened, anger sparking behind her eyes. “That bastard.”

Sebastian couldn’t help the faint smirk that tugged at his lips despite the situation. It was so distinctly Evie to immediately side with them without hesitation, her loyalty unwavering. But the moment of levity was short-lived as Ominis continued.

“He threatened her care,” Ominis said, his voice barely above a whisper. “He said if I didn’t end things with her, he’d make sure she didn’t receive the treatment she needs at St. Mungo’s.”

Evangeline gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. “He wouldn’t—”

“He would,” Ominis interrupted, his voice low and sharp. "He doesn’t make empty threats.”

Her hands trembled slightly as she lowered them, the full weight of Ominis’s predicament settling over her. “That’s despicable,” she said, her voice shaking with barely contained anger. “We can’t let him do this.”

Sebastian stepped forward, his expression hard. “That’s why we need your help. If anyone can figure out a way to outmaneuver him, it’s you.”

Evangeline blinked, her gaze flicking between the two boys. She looked overwhelmed for a brief moment, but then her resolve snapped into place, her shoulders squaring as she stood taller. “Alright,” she said as she paced the room. "What ideas have you two already eliminated?"

Sebastian and Ominis exchanged a quick glance, the tension thick between them. Ominis exhaled slowly, leaning back against the stone wall. “All of them,” he muttered bitterly.

“We’ve considered talking to St. Mungo’s directly,” Sebastian offered, though his tone was tinged with frustration. “But Ominis’s father has connections there. It wouldn’t take much for him to interfere with Anne’s treatment.”

Evangeline frowned, pacing in a tight line across the room. “What about the Ministry? Surely there’s some kind of oversight, a way to keep him from meddling—”

Ominis shook his head, cutting her off. “The Gaunts are too entrenched in Ministry politics. My father’s name carries weight, and he knows how to pull strings without leaving a trace.”

Evangeline bit her lip, her brow furrowed in concentration. “What about going public? If we expose his threats—”

“And drag Anne’s personal life into the spotlight?” Ominis asked, his voice tight. “Do you think she’d want that? And besides, my father would control the entire narrative in the press anyway."

Evangeline stilled, her hands curling into fists at her sides. “You're right,” she admitted softly, her gaze dropping for a moment before snapping back to meet his. “But there has to be something we can do. We’re not going to sit here and let him ruin her life—or yours.”

Sebastian’s gaze lingered on her, the intensity in her eyes stirring something deep within him. She had always been like this—fierce, unwavering, ready to fight for the people she loved. He envied that strength, even as he relied on it.

Evangeline’s lips pressed into a thin line as an idea began to form. “Ominis, how much does your father know about you and Anne? Does he think this is just... infatuation?”

Ominis’s pale eyes narrowed, his head tilting slightly. “Most likely,” he admitted. “He underestimates me. He always has.”

“Good,” Evangeline said sharply, her voice laced with resolve. “Then we use that. Let him think you’re wavering, that you’re starting to doubt your relationship with Anne. It’ll buy us time."

Sebastian arched an eyebrow, "Buy us time for what, exactly?"

Evangeline stilled mid-pace, turning to face him with a resolute glint in her hazel eyes. “The Gaunts are powerful because of their status in the Sacred Twenty-Four. But what if we could make them feel powerless? What if we used their own games against them?”

Ominis frowned, his pale eyes narrowing as he processed her words. “You’re talking about playing politics against my father? Evangeline, that’s suicide.”

“Exactly,” Sebastian added, his tone dripping with doubt. “And how do you propose we even do that? We’re not exactly swimming in leverage or allies.”

Evangeline’s lips pressed into a thin line, her fingers curling at her sides as she took a steadying breath. “That’s where you’re wrong,” she said, her voice calm but firm. "...I'm a Muldoon, remember?"

Her words hung in the air like a spark waiting to ignite, the weight of them pressing down on the tension-filled Undercroft.

Ominis and Sebastian froze, their gazes snapping to her with equal measures of disbelief and confusion.

“Come again?” Sebastian asked, his voice sharp and incredulous.

Evangeline squared her shoulders, her hazel eyes locking onto his. “I said, I’m a Muldoon,” she repeated, more firmly this time. “Or at least, the Ministry thinks I am. And it might just be the leverage we need.”

Ominis tilted his head, his pale eyes narrowing as he processed her words. “You’re suggesting that you use your connection to one of the most reclusive, feared wizarding families in history... to intimidate my father?”

"...yes."

The silence that followed her admission was deafening, broken only by the faint rustling of Ominis’s robes as he shifted uncomfortably.

Sebastian was the first to react, letting out a short, humorless laugh. “Are you serious, Evie?” he asked, his voice low and laced with disbelief. “You want to bluff your way into a political power play with one of the most dangerous men in the wizarding world?”

Evangeline’s expression didn’t waver. “It’s not a bluff if it’s true,” she replied, her tone even but resolute.

Sebastian threw up his hands, pacing the length of the room as if trying to physically shake off the weight of her words. “We don’t even have proof,” he snapped, his frustration bubbling to the surface. “The Ministry has been dragging their feet for weeks! And you said it yourself that you're terrified to even be their blood!"

"Then what do you suggest?" Evangeline snapped, eyes narrowing, "We sit here and wring our hands hoping Noctivus feels merciful?" She laughed humorlessly, "I'll be damned if I let that man destroy what Ominis and Anne have. If my connection to the Muldoons can make him think twice, then we use it.”

Sebastian turned to her, his jaw tight, his dark eyes burning with a mix of frustration and fear. “Do you even hear yourself?” he demanded. “Let’s say, for the sake of argument, that we get our hands on some evidence that you belong to the Muldoon family. You don’t even know them. We don’t know how they’d react to someone like you suddenly claiming their name! For all we know, they’d see you as a threat and come after you instead.”

Evangeline scowled, her hands curling into fists at her sides. "I don't think I'm the one claiming them. I think they're the ones claiming me." She glanced between Sebastian and Ominis, "You two said it yourselves. They're reclusive, and their records wouldn't just come up for no reason. The Ministry would only give me the name if they were certain, so what if the Muldoons helped the Ministry connect the dots?"

Ominis’s breath hitched, his pale eyes narrowing further as he mulled over her words. "You mean... the Ministry found their connection to you because the Muldoons wanted them find it.”

Sebastian scoffed, running a hand through his already messy hair. “Or,” he countered, his voice biting, “it’s because the Ministry stumbled into something they weren’t supposed to find, and now the Muldoons are watching Evie from the shadows, trying to decide if she's a threat.”

Evangeline’s jaw tightened, her eyes flicking to Sebastian, sharp and unyielding. “And what if they are? Does that mean I’m supposed to sit back and do nothing? Let Noctivus ruin everything while I hide? I won’t do it.”

Sebastian stopped pacing, turning to face her fully. His dark eyes burned with frustration, but beneath it, there was fear. Fear for her, for her life.

“This isn’t like fighting goblins or poachers, Evie,” he said, his voice low but forceful. “This is political warfare. If the Muldoons see you as a pawn, they’ll use you. If they see you as a threat, they’ll destroy you. Either way, you lose.”

Evangeline’s chin lifted, defiance sparking in her gaze. “Sebastian, what’s the alternative? Let Ominis’s father manipulate Anne’s care? Watch as he twists the knife further into Ominis’s life? I won’t stand by and let that happen. If I have to gamble with my own life to protect them, then so be it.”

Sebastian’s hands clenched into fists at his sides. “How can you think it's okay to be risking yourself like this? Merlin, Evie, you’re not—”

“I’m not what?” she cut in, her voice rising.

“You’re not invincible!” Sebastian snapped, his voice cracking with the force of his emotions. “You think you can take on everyone and everything, but one day, it’s going to be too much. And I—” He stopped himself, the words hanging unspoken between them.

Evangeline stared at him, her chest heaving with the weight of her emotions. “I know I’m not invincible,” she said quietly, her voice steadying. “But if this is the only shot we have, then I'm going to take it, even if that means putting myself in danger, because right now, they're in danger."

The tension in the Undercroft was thick enough to cut with a knife. Sebastian stared at Evangeline, his jaw tightening as her words sunk in.

Ominis, who had been listening in pained silence, finally spoke, his voice low and measured. “...She’s right, Sebastian. If we don’t find a way to stand up to him, he’ll ruin Anne.” he said, his pale eyes fixed on some distant point. “And me. And he’ll do it without a second thought."

Sebastian stopped pacing, his back still to them as he stared at the wall, his breathing uneven. He hated this. Hated the way they were being forced into a corner, the way Evangeline was being forced to risk everything, hated that she had to use the heritage she didn't even want as a weapon, hated the way Ominis was so resigned to his father’s cruelty. It wasn’t fair. None of it was fair.

But he couldn’t think of another way.

Sebastian let out a shaky breath, his hands rubbing over his face as if trying to wipe away the frustration and fear clawing at him. When he finally spoke, his voice was uneven, a weak attempt at levity. “You know,” he said, his words breaking the tense silence, “it’s a really bad sign when I’m the one being reasonable here.”

Ominis turned his head slightly, the faintest hint of a dry smile ghosting over his lips. “A terrifying prospect, really,” he murmured, though his voice lacked its usual sharpness.

Evangeline looked between them, the corners of her mouth twitching upward in reluctant acknowledgment. But the weight of the situation lingered, pressing down on all of them, refusing to let them breathe.

Sebastian’s attempt at humor crumbled as quickly as it had surfaced. His chest ached, a dull, relentless pressure that only grew sharper when his gaze fell on Evie again. She was standing there with her arms crossed, her chin raised in defiance, her hazel eyes burning with that familiar determination that had always drawn him to her. But now, it terrified him.

“Evie,” he said softly, his voice cracking despite his best efforts to steady it.

Without thinking, Sebastian closed the remaining distance between them, his hands gripping her shoulders before sliding down to her arms. His touch was firm but trembling, as though he were trying to anchor himself—or perhaps her. The faint scent of Alaric’s cologne hit him then, sharp, woody, and foreign, and it made his stomach twist. It was a cruel reminder that she wasn’t his, not really. But none of that mattered right now. Not when she was standing here, ready to risk everything for the people they both loved.

“You can’t—don’t do anything reckless,” he murmured against her hair, his voice muffled but desperate. “Not for Ominis, not for Anne, not for me. Promise me you’ll be smart about this”

Evangeline’s arms hesitated before wrapping around him, her grip firm but gentle. “I'll be careful,” she said softly, her voice steady despite the faint tremor in it. “But you know I’m not going to back down.”

Sebastian squeezed his eyes shut, his fingers curling into the fabric of her dress as he clung to her like a lifeline. “I know,” he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. “That’s what scares me.”

The words hung in the air between them, heavy and raw, and for a moment, the world outside the Undercroft seemed to fade away. There was no Noctivus, no Muldoons, no Alaric, not even Ominis—just the two of them, standing together in the quiet.

When Sebastian finally pulled back, his hands lingered on her arms, his dark eyes searching hers with a vulnerability he rarely allowed himself to show. “I mean it, Evangeline,” he said again, his voice firmer this time. “When you confront him... you come back. No matter what. You come back.”

Evangeline nodded, “I will,” she promised, her voice steady as she wrapped her pinky finger around his. “I always do.”

Read more stories about Sebastian and Evangeline Read on AO3

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[sanjoongie]

Winter Garden

ღMy Third contribution to the tipsy drabbles~

ღPairing: Gardener! Yeosang × Lady of the house! Reader (f)

ღGenre/Trope/Au: smut, forbidden lovers, power dynamic couple, historical au

ღWord Count: 507

ღRating: 18+ MDNI

ღWarnings: public sex, penetrative sex without a barrier, pullout game, dick-drunk, hidden affair

ღSummary: your affair with your gardener was fulfilling, exhilarating, and most importantly, a secret

When you had decided to go for an early morning walk today you had not expected to be currently fucked up against the ivy covered wall of your mansion.

Your illicit affair with the groundskeeper of your large estate was perhaps not the smartest decision you had made but it was certainly fruitful. Especially since Yeosang was hitting the inside of you just right.

“Yeo-yeosang,” You whined, gloved fingers clutching the dead vines in front of you. It was still late winter and you could see your breath in the air like tiny clouds.

Yeosang grunted behind you, more concerned with his thrust game and keeping your skirts up than curious as to why exactly you were whining his name. You said it again with more urgency, especially as his pace behind you quickened.

“Don’t--” You paused to swallow. “Don’t come inside of me!”

Yeosang chuckled deeply behind you. “Would you like me to make a pretty rope of my cum on your ass?”

You were struggling to focus now, the pleasure emanating from your lower half encompassing most of your thoughts. You choked on a gasp as Yeosang began to hit the end of you with his enthusiasm to chase his orgasm. All you could manage in response was: “Please.” Pitiful, but still got your point across.

The tiny hat perched on the side of your head, with the half veil to shade your face from the sun, was starting to slide out of its bobby-pin hold with the way that Yeosang was fucking you so good. His noises began to crescendo, a rough and warm groan eagerly slipping from his red lips.

Your orgasm hit you first, exploding in a cry that Yeosang had to quickly mute with his hand over your mouth. Your eyes fluttered closed so that you could drink in the pleasure painting your nerves. Yeosang came soon after, having delivered you to yours, he pulled out and came messily all over your ass. Yeosang allowed his hands to rest on the plumpness of your ass, fingers digging into the flesh as he came down from his high.

You were panting and attempting to catch your breath when Yeosang pulled your skirts down with alaricity. “Ah--Jongho, what brings you out here so early?” Yeosang said cheerfully.

Jongho eyed your rosy cheeks and the spark in Yeosang’s eyes. “You’re up to something. I just know it.”

Yeosang shrugged his shoulders. “I was just asking for an opinion of the shrubbery shapes.”

You attempted to not squirm at the icky feeling of Yeosang’s cum rapidly cooling on your skin. You nodded first to Yeosang, then to Jongho, the butler, and dashed off with a fistful of your skirts held high in the air. “Good Day, Gentlemen,” You said curtly.

Perhaps you could catch Hongjoong after he finished making the bread for the day to distract yourself from the fact that you almost got caught by Jongho while Yeosang fucked you within an inch of your life and that you had skipped breakfast for it.

[tsel-bas]

UNDERNEATH THE DEEP SEA (A SUBSYSTEM!)

⚠️WARNING⚠️ HEADMATES MAY NOT TURN OUT EXACTLY AS DESCRIBED. ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING CAN BE CHANGED TO FIT YOUR SYSTEM.

MOST SUBNAUTICA CENTERED TERMS BY US.

CW: SOME FACECLAIMS HAVE MULTIPLE SETS OF EYES. IF YOU ARE SENSITIVE TO SUCH THINGS, PLEASE READ AT YOUR OWN RISK.

⋆SYSTEM/GROUP NAME: LEVIATHAN TRIO, LOST RIVER SOCIETY, DEADZONE COLLECTIVE, OCEAN'S PREDATORS, ABYSS LURKERS

⋆NAMES: HUNTER, ZYLO, ANZOR, BOREAS, KYRA, ECLIPSE

⋆PRONOUNS: HE|HIM, HY|HYM, HX|HXM, SHE|HER, SHY|HYR, SHX|HXR, SIE|SIER, THEY|THEM, THXY|THXM, THEI|THEIM, IT|ITS, IX|IXS, EY|EM, AE|AER, XEY|XEM, XAE|XAEM, NE|NIM, VAE|VAEM, DAE|DAEM, 💧|💧S, 🌊|🌊S, 🔵|🔵S, 🔴|🔴S, 💢|💢S, 🟢|🟢S, ⚪|⚪S, 👻|👻S, 💀|💀S

⋆GENDER: TRIGENDER (MALE, FEMALE, SUBNAUTICAEAN ), SUBNAUTICAGAMEIC, LEVIATHANGENDER, SUBTERRORIC, DEEPIC, PHOSDYPHOTIAL, OCEANBODIMENT, MARISTROCEN, SUBTHALASSOGENDER, FEARCEALONAUTICA

⋆ORIENTATION: ABROSEXUAL, NAUTIALLION, SUBNAULLION, LEVIATHAN4LEVIATHAN, SUBAUTICAN ATTRACTION

⋆OTHER IDS: SUBNAUTICAIPSESE, NAUTICAEAN, DEEPSEAQUE, ALAB, 4546BHEARTHIC

⋆ORIGINS/MODIFIERS: SUBNAUTICADAWN, GAMTIEN, BLURIAN,

⋆SYSTEM IDS: SUBSYSTEM, SUBNAUTICAPLURID, APICONSCIOUS,

⋆AESTHETIC/THEME: SUBNUATICA SYSTEM THEME,

⋆TITLES (CAN ALSO BE USED AS SYSTEM NAMES): THE FRIGHTENING ONES, THEY WHO SEEK THEIR PREY, PREDATORS OF THE DEEP, DESTROYERS OF THE ABYSS, PROTECTORS OF THE WATERS, DANGEROUS ONES, RAVAGERS OF THE LIVING

⋆NAME: REAPER, RIOT, KARMA, ALARIC, VELKAN, MAGNUS

⋆PRONOUNS: HE|HIM, IT|ITS, IX|IXS, EY|EM, XAE|XAEM, RED|REDS, VI|VIOLENCE, ANGER|ANGERS, 💢|💢S

⋆GENDER: TRANSMASC BIGENDER (DEMIBOY, AGENDER), AQUASHIFTIEN, HYDROBODIMENT, GENDEROCEAN, TERROREGOCOMFORTIC, BEASTBOY, REAPERLEVIANAUTIC

⋆ORIENTATION: GAY

⋆TERMS: MASCULINE, NONHUMAN

⋆AGE: 257

⋆ROLE: AVENGER, COLTENOIR

⋆SOURCE: @/TSEL-BAS, SUBNAUTICA

⋆SPECIES: REAPER LEVIATHAN SHAPESHIFTER

⋆HUMANOID APPEARENCE: -LONG, DARK RED HAIR TIED BACK INTO A BRAIDED PONY TAIL. BANGS THAT PARTIALLY COVER THE EYES WITH SIDE STRANDS COVERING THE EARS. -FOUR FIREY RED EYES ARRANGED IN A SQUARE-LIKE PATTERN. ONE EYE FOR EACH "CORNER" OF THE SQUARE -SLIGHTLY PALE SKIN CLOSER TO TAN THAN COMPLETELY WHITE. -POINTY ELF-LIKE EARS, SHARP SHARK TEETH, AND TWO SCARS, ONE RUNNING THROUGH THE LEFT MOST EYES, (RIGHT SIDE OF THE VIEWER) AND THE OTHER ACROSS THE BRIDGE OF THE NOSE.

⋆LEVIATHAN APPEARENCE: -SLEEK, WHITE, ONE HUNDRED EIGHTY FOOT LONG BODY WITH EIGHT RED FINS AIDING IN SWIM SPEED, AND PROTECTIVE ARMOR. TWO PECTORAL FINS, A DORSAL AND VENTRAL FIN ALONG THE ENTIRE LENGTH OF THE BODY, AND FOUR FINS AT THE END OF THE TAIL. -THERE ARE SCARS ALL OVER THE BODY, SOME DEEPER THAN THE OTHERS. -FOUR LARGE EYES THAT DON'T ACTUALLY SEE VERY WELL, LEADING TO THE EXTENSIVE USE OF ECHOLOCATION AT NIGHT. - A LARGE, HARDENED FIN-LIKE STRUCTURE ALONG THE FORHEAD ALONG WITH WHAT LOOKS LIKE A LARGE CHIN JUTTING OUT BELOW THE MOUTH. -FOUR RAZOR SHARP PINCERS CONNECTED TO THE SIDES OF THE HEAD USED TO GRAB PREY WITH JUST AS SHARP TEETH.

⋆BIRTHDAY: DECEMBER 12TH

⋆PERSONALITY: -NEGATIVE: CARELESS, ARROGANT, BLUNT -POSITIVE: ADAPTABLE, EFFICIENT, AND PROTECTIVE.

⋆DESCRIPTION:

MEET RIOT, YOUR NEW BITCHY PROTECTOR WHO IS ALWAYS GOING AT THINGS HEAD ONE WITH LITTLE FORETHOUGHT. OFTEN SAYING WHAT'S ON HIS MIND WHICH MAY NOT BE SO POSTITIVE UNLESS IT'S TALKING ABOUT IXSELF.

EASILY ABLE TO ADAPT TO NEW AND POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS SITUATIONS, GETTING THINGS DONE QUICKLY. ESPECIALLY IF SOMEONE HURTS REDS HEADMATES.

EY ABSORB THE SYSTEMS ANGER TO DEAL WITH IT XAEMSELVES, OFTEN SEEKING OUT THE PERPATRATOR OF THE HARM TO THE SYSTEM IS APPLICABLE. OTHERWISE, VI STAYS BY ANGERSELF TO DEAL WITH THE RAGE IN A HEALTHY MANNER, OFTEN TAKING UP KNITTING OR CHROCHETING PROJECTS TO PASS THE TIME AND RELIEVE STRESS.

⋆FACECLAIMS:

⋆NAME: GHOST, REVENANT, PHANTOM, GHOUL, NYX, NIGHT

⋆PRONOUNS: AE|AER, VAE|VAEM, DAE|DAEM, HAUNT|HAUNTS, VOI|VOIDS, AB|ABYSS, ⚪|⚪S, 👻|👻S, 💀|💀S

⋆GENDER: LIBRAFEMININE, GHOSTLEVIANAUTIC, HORRORCOSMIUM. FERALBODIMENT, SEABOMINATION, GHOSTTHING, VOIDTHING

⋆ORIENTATION: BI-LESBIAN

⋆TERMS: FEMININE, NONHUMAN, OR NAME ONLY.

⋆AGE: 1325

⋆ROLE: SILENT WATCHER, SPACE SOOTHER

⋆SOURCE: @/TSEL-BAS, SUBNAUTICA

⋆SPECIES: GHOST LEVIATHAN SHAPESHIFTER

⋆HUMANOID APPEARENCE: -WAVY, THICK, LIGHT BLUE HAIR TIED UP INTO TWO BRAIDS, STARTING OUT THICKER CLOSER TO THE SCALP BEFORE THINNING CLOSER TO THE ENDS. -SIX, NON-UNIFORM EYES SCATTERED AROUND THE FACE. THE IRIS OF EACH EYE IS YELLOW AND LARGE ENOUGH TO ALMOST COVER THE SCLERA. THERE ARE NO PUPILS IN THE EYES. -PALE WHITE SKIN CLOSER TO BEING ACTUALLY WHITE THAN ANYTHING. ABSOLUTELY ZERO MELANIN. -FIN LIKE EARS SIMILAR TO A COMMON MERMAID OR SIREN WITH SMALL AND THICK HORNS MATCHING THE SKIN COLOR. THE HANDS ARE MORE LIKE CLAWS DUE TO THE SHARPNESS OF THE NAILS AND THERE IS A SCAR ON THE LEFT SIDE (VIEWRS RIGHT) OF THE FACE PASSING THROUGH TWO OF THE EYES AND TOUCHING A THIRD.

⋆LEVIATHAN APPEARENCE -THREE HUNDRED FIFTY-ONE FEET OF HOSTILE TRANSLUSCENT FLESH AND MUSCLE. GLOWING INNARDS AND APPENDAGES ON THE SIDE OF THE HEAD SOMEWHAT RESEMBLING THE HORNS OF LONGHORN CATTLE. -SCARS ARE LITERED ALL OVER THE LENGTH OF THE BODY FROM FIGHTING OTHER GHOSTS OVER FOOD AND TERRITORY. -TEN GLOWING YELLOW EYES AND A BEAK-LIKE MOUTH FOR LURING IN AND TEARING INTO PREY. -EXTREMELY FAST DUE TO THE STREAMLINED BODY AND SHEER AMOUNT OF MUSCLE IN IT ALLOWING THE BODY TO PROPEL ITSELF FORWARD AT HIGH SPEEDS.

⋆BIRTHDAY: NOVEMBER 17TH

⋆PERSONALITY: -POSITIVE: BALANCED, CAPABLE, AND POWERFUL -NEGATIVE: FIERCE, HUMORLESS, AND REMORSLESS.

⋆DESCRIPTION:

REVENANT IS USUALLY CALM AND COLLECTED. PRECISE AND CAPABLE OF MANY THINGS, BALANCING TASKS WITH EASE. AE IS QUIET, BUT LEAKS OFF A SILENT POWERFUL AURA TO EVERYONE WHO INTENDS TO HARM THE BODY OR THE SYSTEM.

IF PROVOKED VOI MIGHT ATTACK, VERBALLY OR OTHERWISE TO GET REVENGE ON THOSE WHO HARMED VAEM, THE BODY, OR THE SYSTEM AS A WHOLE. DAE FEEL NO REMORSE FOR THE ONES HAUNT HURTS, AS THEY HURT THE ONES AB CARES FOR THE MOST.

⚪ SILENTLY WATCHES THOSE IN FRONT FROM A SPOT IN CO-CON UNDETECTED, WAITING FOR A MOMENT TO SWITCH OUT TO PROTECT THE SYSTEM. WHILE IN THE HEADSPACE HOWEVER, 👻 SOOTHES FELLOW HEADMATES WITH 💀S MERE PRESENCE, ALLOWING FOR ONES AFFECTED BY THE OUTSIDE TO CALM DOWN AND RECOLLECT THEMSELVES.

⋆FACECLAIMS:

⋆NAME: DRACONIA, JASPER, CORBYN, FANG, CHAOS, THORN

⋆PRONOUNS: SHX|HXR, HY|HYM, SIE|SIER, THEI|THEIM, IT|ITS, BLAZE|BLAZES, DESTRUCT|DESTRUCTION, PRO|PROTECT, NE|NIM, 🟢|🟢S,

⋆GENDER: TRANSFEM AGENDER / GENDERLESS, ELDRAGONIC, DRAGONLEVIANAUTIC, SEADRAGONLEVIATHANMONSTERENBYIC, FIREBODIMENT, COSMELDIANEU, AQUAVULCANICGENDER

⋆ORIENTATION: SAPPHIC

⋆TERMS: FEMININE, NEUTRAL, NONHUMAN

⋆AGE: 734

⋆ROLE: LIMIT BREAKER, ADVOCATE

⋆SOURCE: @/TSEL-BAS, SUBNAUTICA

⋆SPECIES: SEA DRAGON LEVIATHAN SHAPESHIFTER

⋆HUMANOID APPEARENCE: -THICK GREEN DREADS WITH A BIT OF A SIDE PART THAT GO DOWN TO THE SHOULDERS. -FOUR YELLOW EYES IN A SQUARE LIKE FORMATION. BIGGER EYES IN TOP CORNERS, SMALLER EYES IN BOTTOM CORNERS. -BROWN SKIN LIGHTER THAN MILK CHOCOLATE, BUT WAY DARKER THAN WHITE. (FINALLY SOMEONE WITH MELANIN! /VSILLY) -LONG, POINTY ELF-LIKE EARS AND RAZOR SHARP TEETH TO EASILY CHEW UP FOOD. NOSE HAS A DIP IN THE BRIDGE CLOSER TO THE TIP OF THE NOSE.

⋆LEVIATHAN APPEARENCE: -THREE HUNDRED SIXTY-SEVEN FEED OF GIANTNESS. FRILLS AND SPIKES ALL OVER THE BODY ALONG WITH GLOWNG SPOTS LINED UP ON THE UNDERSIDE OF THE BODY RESEMBLING THE HEAT OF A FIRE. -SCARS SOMEWHAT MINIMAL DUE TO THE ISOLATED STATUS OF THE CREATURE. OCCASIONALLY THERE WILL BE TERRITORIAL FIGHTS WITH OTHER SEA DRAGONS, BUT NOT OFTEN ENOUGH TO GAIN MANY INJURIES. -TWO SETS OF GLOWING YELLOW EYES WITH TWO APPENDAGES SIMILAR TO THE ANTENNAE OF A BUG WITH BIOLUMINESCENT ORBS AT THE TIPS. -EXTREMELY FAST SWIMMER DUE TO THE STRENGTH OF THE ARM-LIKE FIN APPENDAGES USED TO PROPEL THE DRAGON FORWARD LIKE A HUMAN SWIMMING.

⋆BIRTHDAY: MARCH 3RD

⋆PERSONALITY: -POSITIVE: CONFIDENT, DILIGENT, RESILIANT -NEGATIVE: SARCASTIC, SELF-CENTERED, STUBBORN

⋆DESCRIPTION:

JASPER IS CONFIDENT IN EVERYTHING THAT SHX DOES, OFTEN LEADING TO MAKING THINGS ABOUT HYMSELF. SIE FREQUENTLY REPLIES TO THINGS WITH HEAVY SARCASM WHEN BEINGS ASK OR SAY SOMETHING THEI THOUGHT WAS OBVIOUS.

HOWEVER, WHEN IT COMES TO STEPPING UP TO DO ITS ROLE, BLAZE DOES IT CAREFULLY AND CONCISELY NO MATTER THE CHALLENGE DESTRUCT IS FACED WITH. IF YOU TRY TO GET PRO TO STOP DOING SOMETHING THAT MIGHT BE HARMING NIM, 🟢 WILL PUSH IT OFF IN AN EFFORT TO COMPLETE THE TASK AT HAND.

SHX BREAKS THE LIMITS OF THE BODY WHEN SOMETHING NEEDS TO GET DONE AND CONSTANTLY ADVOCATES NOT ONLY FOR THE SYSTEM, BUT OTHERS WHO DO NOT HAVE THE VOICE TO STAND UP FOR THEMSELVES.

⋆FACECLAIMS: