#Because it did me at first. And I’m otherwise GLAD to be confusing

[lionblaze03-2]

sometimes I think about writing and singing music not because I’m an incredible singer but because no one has my fucking voice, especially in popular music, and its disheartening to be born a girl, told you’ll only get girl roles or try to voice match other girls, or ‘sing with the girls’ and then only be able to match male voices because you’re a fuckin tenor and not anything higher. I can’t think of any girl Broadway roles I can hit all the notes on. Most songs I love I have to pitch down for myself or use falsetto for singing along to. It bothers me a lot less now because I’m an adult who’s more secure in myself but as a teen in kids musical theatre it FUCKED with me, BAD style. And I know for a fact that even now when I hear people with a voice like mine singing I get excited and immediately invested in their work because they’re like ME, finally, for once. A brother in this world of being afab and having the voice of a recently pubescent boy forever. Maybe I should be that brother too.

[aroaessidhe]

2024 reads / storygraph

The Jinn-Bot of Shantiport

set in a cyberpunk Calcutta-inspired city, loosely inspired by Aladdin

chaotic monkey bot who wants to fight in underground mecha/bot tournaments and leave to become a space hero

his human sister, the daughter of failed revolutionaries who has been working her whole life to free their city from oppression and inequality, especially with the recent rumors that their planet is scheduled for destruction

and an old unearthed bot whose function is to observe & record the story of a client who meets the siblings and quickly becomes involved in their lives

and a treasure hunt to find an old and powerful piece of alien tech that has the power to radically change their city

[yanderetheumbrellaacademy]

Prompt 301, 195 and 118 with Yandere Five?

Prompt 118: “I’ll make you want me, just you see.” Prompt 195: “Controlling myself around you is so fucking hard.” Prompt 301: “I’m going to have you in the end, you know?” Tw: Different backgrounds/Poor vs Rich

You and Five did not get along when you first meet. He had snuck out of his house one night when he was irritated with his father and that's when he met you. You were hanging outside of an apartment complex and he had run into you, literally.

"Hey, jackass watch it!"

He turns back to you annoyed, but he doesn't respond outside of that.

Over the years you had multiple interactions with him and they always went wrong. You always ended up pissing the other off. There were times when one of you tried to make bygones, but it never worked. You two were just so similar that you happened to butt heads.

It didn't help that you came from different backgrounds. He lived in a mansion and your family lived on the poverty line. You hated the pompous life that he got to live, but otherwise, you couldn't have cared less about those kids. You only hated him because you've interacted with him.

---

You weren't listening to your friends. Instead your eyes were focused on the house of those kids. You knew they'd be out soon- There was always something happening.

Your thoughts were proven when the group quickly hasted out of the house in their stupid getups. Your eyes were lead to the boy you were thinking of- that Five kid. And his eyes met yours too, not that you could really tell with their masks, but you knew.

---

You heard something being thrown at your window, which woke you up. You crankly walked towards your window and looked out, only to be surprised when seeing Five.

You opened the window to ask him what he's doing, but he decided to take that opportunity to transport into your room. You quickly turned around, angry that he would invade your privacy like that.

"Cute stuff animals."

"What do you want?"

"From you? Nothing."

"God, you are so pretentious."

"Perhaps," He grabs a snow globe that was sitting on one of your shelves, fiddling with it.

"Well, if you don't need anything, you can leave."

He turns to you, an unreadable expression. "Leave? I should. I will. That's a great idea."

"I mean my house."

He looks around your room, before making a face of disgust, "House? That might be an overstatement."

"Excuse you?"

"Nevermind. I just wanted to see you before I do leave."

"You're leaving? Where are you going?" Not like you cared, but you were kind of intriqued.

"Through time."

"I don't know what that means, but okay."

---

Five fiddled with the things on your desk. You really should keep your windows locked, but he was kind of glad you didn't. It made it easier to break into your apartment. It was nice, to a fault, still... Your roots really showed.

It was very humble. He kind of liked it. He wished he could of had a life like this. He was jealous.

He perked up when hearing the door being unlocked and some groaning. He put down the coffee he had been drinking and stared at the door waiting for you to open it.

Something was off about your house. You had a feeling someone was in your house. Your suspicions were confirmed when seeing your kitchen light on. You grab a lamp and slowly go towards the door.

When you push the door open, your surprised to see Five? But young?

"Oh, nice weapon."

"Fuck off, what are you doing in my apartment?"

"I wanted to see you."

"See me? We never got along. We hated each other."

"Hate?" He looks at you confused. "I never hated you."

You look be fumbled by his words, "What?"

"Why would I go to see you if I hated you?"

You roll your eyes and go to your fridge, getting yourself a drink.

"You don't seem surprised to see me. As this... Boy."

"I heard through the grapevine you were back."

He watched you grab your milk jug and gulp it down straight from the bottle. He watches, his eyes going down.

"So, Five, you still go by Five?"

"Yeah."

"What do you want?"

"I don't know. You?"

"Me?"

"Yeah. I always liked you, Y/n."

You laugh, before realizing he was dead serious. "You're a little kid."

"I'm not a kid. I'm older than you by decades. It was hard to control myself around you, so fucking hard, when we were younger, and it's not any better now."

"Are you drunk?"

His brows frown, realizing you weren't taking him seriously. "I love you."

"Five. You've been gone for like twenty-"

"Forty-Five."

"What?"

"It was forty-five years. For me, at least."

"Okay. Still, it's been a long time. How do you even know if I'm not with someone?"

"I've been watching you."

"Excuse me?"

"You made it so easy. Everything about you at the swipe of a finger." He smirks, leaning on the table, knowing you were trapped in his palm.

You take a step back, your back hitting the wall. "What do you want? Seriously."

"You. I want you. And I'll make you want me, just you see."

"You're delusional."

"I wouldn't count on delusionals for any sense of reality, Y/n. Just know, that I'm going to have you in the end. Whether you like it or not."

His words slowly become fuzzy as your vison goes black.

"Oh, and I forgot to tell you that your jug has some sleeping powder in it. Oops."

You let out a huff, as it was all you could do, before your body went limp and you fell asleep.

[silverflqmes]

Okay hear me out, may I request Cloud x reader fluff where we spend lovely spring morning together? Nothing nsfw just pure comfort, our cat laying in bed with us, laziness at it finest.

Off the topic I really adore your work! I'm quite new to ffvii, basically I've just started playing, but your work made me fall head over heels for Cloud haha. Anyway have a good day!

໒⦂ 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐃𝐄𝐖.

notes. hello! thank you so much for the request and the kind words akajsks i’m still fairly new to ff7 myself, but i’m glad to have amplified your love for it and cloud<3 the cat saga continues✨ i did something experimental here so it’s a little shorter, but i hope it’s okay :’)

genre. fluff + comfort

disclaimer. before any confusion arises.. sora is the name of your cat, who was first mentioned in this post if you are eager to see more of her!

cloud strife x gn!reader.

sora’s purring joins the gentle whistle sung by the breeze that swept through the bedroom window, chiffon curtains dancing to the soft tune like delicate petals.

cloud couldn’t remember the last time he’d had a taste of spring weather — of bitter cold melting into tender warmth.

the change of seasons was hardly ever noticeable without trees to flourish the busy streets with life, lakes to freeze over at the gradual drop of temperature, and flowers to splash the otherwise monochrome edge with color in the spring.

perhaps, it made the planet worth saving after all. to have been rewarded for his efforts at the very end with the beauty of the world, along with his beloved partner.. and a feline friend.

your chest rose and fell with breath, quietly, but surely, eyes fluttered shut. an unspoken trust, which your boyfriend treasured more than he could verbally express.

it was too early to even be up right now for most people.. but cloud, unfortunately, had to represent his little company as its only delivery guy and employee within the next two hours.

he fought back an annoyed sigh at the mental reminder of it.. only to remember that you had still been fast asleep.

any indicative sound that threatened to portray his irritation and spill from his lips all but melted away, falling completely silent on his tongue. because how could he possibly ruin the serene image of you all bundled up and cozy.

the exasperated exhale died all together in the stream of his windpipe as his features relaxed once more in repose.

normally he preferred taking up long distant deliveries by himself, but on this particular occasion, the client happened to live in your seaside hometown — costa del sol. a place that was untouched by the unpleasant smog of edge, and instead painted in a kaleidoscope of vibrant coats.. rather than a trillion shades of gray.

a shift in movement made his mako tinted sapphires flash just briefly before sliding to your stirring form.

his ears caught a jumbled, almost incoherent murmur ( were it not for his amplified hearing ) and cloud wondered to himself for a moment what dreams had joined you in your slumber. something lovely, he hoped, a gentle caress to your conscience.. and not the nightmares that haunted him until dawn on some evenings.

moonless nights when cloud thought too hard for comfort, let alone decent rest.

although, those had been few now. infrequent, thankfully, all because of your solace-filled presence — pressed into his chest.. and the light nuzzling of your calico kitty tucked into his side.

a silent, meow-less request for breakfast.. or maybe not. maybe it was just to ask cloud to stay a little while longer, and enjoy that which he could not back in edge.

waking up to unsullied air- a mixture of floral aromas and the soft, but welcome dripping of morning dew traveling from petal to petal, was.. sadly a rarity, the former infantryman realized.

which is why he found himself sinking into the pillows and duvets in submission, allowing darkness to greet his eyes for another round of sleep. two hours were more than enough to get dressed and to his destination. so truly, all he needed was thirty minutes to be dressed and out of your childhood home.

the hour and a half remaining could blissfully go to cuddling you a little while longer, all else drowning into background noise as he would slip further and further, deeper and deeper. surrendering himself completely to your warm company, the serendipitous quiet, and spring morn.

notes. okay this is way shorter than what i normally write, but i hope it’s still good😭 not much dialogue, just cloud being soft and at ease for a change ahaha

↳ return to main masterlist . request rules . send an ask

[ily-sunghoon]

The Omen of Sterling | CHAPTER IV

Pairing : vampire!enha x fem!oc

Genre of this chapter : vampire, disgusting little smut scene with jungwon

POV : Author’s

Words count : 5.2k

WARNINGS : MDNI!!! food, blood drinking, pussy eating, nipple play, period cycle, curses, mentioned of kms, kinda power abuse, enha are simps, fighting, witchcraft, DO NOT PROCEED IF UNCOMFORTABLE lmk if I missed anything

Note : PHEEEEEWWWW FIRST SMUT CHAPTER! the smut scene is really short, but! enjoy! ALSO, TWO NEW CHARACTERS WOOHOOO <3 feel free to ask if you have confusion about anything! (dont ask me when will this end)

MASTERLIST

TAGLIST : @nshmrarki @capri-cuntz @millieinyourarea @strxwbloody @poeticjustice1010 @leesura @vousty (let me know if you want to be added)

CHAPTER IV: BLOODY NIGHT

Wilhelmina is in a good mood today, she’ll be back at her uncle’s mansion! Her favorite place ever, because everyone in the castle is not fun. Here in the mansion, they’ve got Ricardo and Jasper who are just as weird as her. Now, she heard that the new girl is also a fun person too! She can’t wait to meet her!

A little bit contrast for the seven vampires, Wilhelmina is like a thunderstorm. Sure, she keeps the house lively! But no one would deny the chaos that she would be making every five minutes is kind of difficult to handle.

“Tell me what happened while I’m gone. In full. Where is the new girl? I want to meet her.” Wilhelmina demands Jasper.

“Good timing, she’s in your uncle’s office.” Jasper grins.

“Oh! What chapter did I miss?” Wilhelmina smirks at the hinted statement.

“A lot! Go barge in, you’ll see for yourself.” Jasper whispered.

Wilhelmina walks upstairs to Jestel’s office with Jasper.

“I’ll wait here.” Jasper informed. Stopping right next to a vase.

Wilhelmina nods and storms uninvited. She clearly could see the way Jestel was so drooling over the new girl.

“Wilhelmina, how many times—” Jestel sighed at her behavior.

“GOOD MORNING! Hi, I’m Wilhelmina. I’m so glad we finally meet each other!” Wilhelmina smiles widely at Iolana.

“Hi! I’m Iolana. I heard about you from Jestel and Ricardo a lot!” Iolana smiles back, she gave her a smile that she didn’t give to any of those guys. A genuine, warm smile.

Jestel froze when he saw her smiling like that.

“My room is on the 4th floor! Please visit me if you have spare time. Or I can visit you! We can go shopping, gossiping, do each other’s hair—oh, wait! WOW! You have short hair, that’s rare!” Wilhelmina is shocked. She had never seen any girl with mid-length hair like Iolana before.

“Wilhelmina, manners.” Jestel reminded her.

“I apologize, Iolana. I was just curious!”

“It’s okay! My brother accidentally cut it during our duels.” Iolana answered, still with her warm smile. She feels safe around Wilhelmina, there’s no bad vibes from her.

“Are you planning to grow it?”

“Of course! Wouldn’t want to get some mouths on my new society.” Iolana giggled.

“Fuck them, you’re very cool!” Ricardo was right, Iolana gets along with Wilhelmina really well.

“Wilhelmina, watch the language.” Jestel reminds her again. “Get out, you’re disturbing our discussion.”

“Oh, my my! Iolana, you must be special. He hates discussion, let alone with a new girl that he just met.” Wilhelmina giggled. She loves teasing everyone in the house, especially her uncle. It gave her a sense of control and it’s fun.

“Don’t listen to her, Iolana.” Jestel tries to convince Iolana otherwise.

“You can ask everyone, Iolana. I might be a trouble, but I never lie.” Wilhelmina laughed this time. Surely Jestel can’t beat that statement, Iolana knows that it’s the truth.

“Are you done, Wilhelmina?” Jestel is panicking.

“He gave her his blood.” Jasper added, bursting into the room.

“Really, Jasper?” Jestel is frustrated right now.

“What does that mean?” Iolana plays dumb.

“Well, somebody is ready to settle down! Eager, aren’t we?” Wilhelmina is enjoying this. “Iolana, you’re truly special. Blood is a big deal around here.”

“Really?”

“Not necessarily!” Jestel panicked again.

“It’s the biggest love form for us Kroshoviens. Hope that helps!” Wilhelmina is giggling nonstop.

“Oh! Even if they mix the blood with somebody else’s blood too?”

“Well, they’re all confessing to you then.” Jasper shrugged his shoulder. “Who’s the other boys?”

“Saine, Jusarlie, and Sarco.”

“Sarco?!” They stopped for a second. “Sarco gave his blood to you?”

“Yes, yesterday after dinner.” Iolana explained.

“This is so fun!” Wilhelmina eyes lit up in excitement. “Hope you can handle the intensity, Iolana!”

“Wait, Wilhelmina, could you explain it again to me? I’m kind of puzzled here.” Iolana played her part.

“That would be my pleasure! Let’s go to your room, I’ll explain further.”

“Iolana, she might add a few lies.” Jestel warned her again.

“No, Wilhelmina never lie.” Jasper shoos them away.

“Bye, Uncle Jestel! Bye, Jasper!” Wilhelmina hugs Iolana’s arm and walks to the 3rd floor together while chatting.

Jestel is visibly bothered.

“Look who’s in a lovestruck now.” Jasper laughed at Jestel’s expression.

“I could handle those other two, but Sarco? Really?” Jestel faked a deep sigh.

“Don’t you think you should start to listen to Idris? None of his omen are proven wrong, especially for this girl.” Jasper gives him simple advice.

“Maybe I should, it is hard to believe this sometimes.”

—

“Wilhelmina, are you not bothered by my scent?” Iolana asked her when they reached the 3rd floor.

“Oh, it only works for the opposite gender! I feel comfortable with you even though you’re a sweet-scented human!” Wilhelmina explained.

“Do they just want my blood…? I don’t know who to trust right now.” Iolana frowned.

“Hey, it’s okay. I feel you, it must be very overwhelming. Take it easy, Iolana. I personally think that they’re in real lovestruck.” Wilhelmina waits for Iolana to open her bedroom door.

They walk in and sit on the bed.

“So… about the blood confession? I don’t know… could you explain more?” Iolana asked politely.

“Basically, if they give you, their blood. It means they’re consenting to you to call upon them whenever you want and need. Hence why we see it as the greatest form of love. It’s not common for one to give their blood so easily to someone they just knew. That’s why I called you special.” Wilhelmina explained.

“Is it that serious?”

“Yes! Only engaged and married people usually do that thing to each other. So, sum it up by yourself.” Wilhelmina laughed. “They’re so in love with you, they think you’re the one for them.”

“This is a bad thing, then?” Iolana gulps.

“Depends on how you look at it, me personally, it’s so fun! You can just summon them as you wish. How fun is that?” Wilhelmina tries to make Iolana see the bright and fun side.

“Whenever, huh?” Iolana nods and smirks.

“That’s the spirit!” Wilhelmina knew Iolana hides something mischievous behind those shy smiles. “Don’t you want to try to summon one of them?”

“Sure! Who should I call?” Iolana is confused.

“Call my uncle.”

“Okay, let’s try.” Iolana is giggling. She tries to focus herself while taking a deep breath. “Jestel, I need you.”

In a second, Jestel teleported in her room. He looks confused.  “Iolana, did she ask you to do that?”

“We just want to try!” Iolana defends Wilhelmina who’s smugly grins at Jestel now.

“Okay, next time do it only if you need me, alright?” Jestel tried to be as soft-spoken as he could. It’s a funny scene to watch for Wilhelmina.

“Okay, Jestel.” Iolana puts up her innocent gaze.

“I’ll get going.” Jestel nods and walks out from her room.

Wilhelmina laughed loudly as Jestel had already walked up the stairs. “You’re so good at acting sweet, you should teach me.”

“The key is in the eyes. Just make it bigger, full of hope, and blink a few times, you know. Like this.” Iolana gives her an example. “Always work on men.”

“Let me try, let me try.” Wilhelmina closes her eyes, preparing to try the sweet-looking eyes method. She opens her eyes, giving it an essence of hope, and blinks a few times. “Like this?”

“Yes, that’s perfect!” Iolana claps her hand, proud of Wilhelmina. Girlhood is so fun.

“I’m going to use it against Jasper.” Wilhelmina mumbled to herself.

Iolana gives her a smug grin, “You like him, don’t you?”

“No, no, no! No way, right?” Wilhelmina’s nervous chuckles are enough evidence of her real feelings toward Jasper.

“Sure! No way, right?” Iolana mocks her.

“Don’t tell anyone! You’re the first to know!” Wilhelmina whispered.

“Let’s just hope Saine isn’t in his room right now.” Iolana whispered back.

A knock on the door made them jump. “Iolana, it’s me.”

Oh, lord. It’s Saine.

“Speaking of the devil.” Iolana laughed. “Come in, Saine.”

Saine walks in with a sweet smile, but it fades away immediately when he sees Wilhelmina. “Oh, my vamp, it’s you.”

“You gave your blood to her, right?” Wilhelmina strikes back. “That’s so sweet of you, Saine.”

Saine swifts uncomfortably, “Uh, yes. Anyways, I’m going for a walk in the town. Do you want to join me, Iolana?”

“Sure! Can we invite Wilhelmina too?” Iolana is in her innocent mask again.

“Sure.” Saine nods. Praying to every deity and his ancestors that he could think of right now.

“I’ll go ask Jasper.” Wilhelmina smiles at Iolana, then smirks at Saine. “Jaspeeer!”

“Stop screaming, I could hear you perfectly without all the screams.” Jasper shows up immediately at Iolana’s door.

“Relax, soulmate. Let’s join Iolana and Saine for a walk.” Wilhelmina chuckled.

“Sure, let’s go. I’m ready.” Jasper nods.

“Okay, our first stop is my father. He made a special necklace for Iolana. We should grab it first, I’m sure it can hide her sweet scent.” Saine smiles warmly at Iolana.

—

Holstein crouched in front of the last Sterling that he could bring here alive. Fortunately for him, it’s Tama Sterling! The eldest son of Tearle. Luckily, Tama survived his own suicide. So, here he is! Lying on the special prison’s floor, helpless, out of energy, hungry maybe? He’s also very angry. Only if he is a vampire, they’ll be dead by now.

“Is your sister alive?” Holstein asked.

Tama remained silent.

“She’s important to me.” Holstein said again. “She might be the one.”

“Over my dead body.” Tama mocks him.

“You’re so hard to talk to, just like Jestel. I’m sure Iolana is just like me. Easy to talk to, cold-headed, and not stingy.” Holstein scoffed. “Don’t worry, Tama. You’ll be a vampire soon.”

That can’t be happening, what are their plans now?

“Without your memory too, isn’t it sweet? You’re going to be our little dangerous weapon.”

“I’d rather die.”

“You don’t get to choose here.” Holstein hits Tama’s head, not enough to make him die, but enough to knock him out.

—

Iolana stands up and hugs Saine’s arm. Ready for the quick speed she’s going to face. They’re instantly gone in a second, it takes fifteen seconds to get to the Cairneye’s Mansion. Iolana never realized how far it was. Maybe yesterday she was really enjoying the view.

“Papa!” Saine shouts for his father.

“My ears,” Idris acts like his ears are hurt by Saine’s voice.

“Whatever, where is the pendant?” Saine is fed up with Idris’ playfulness.

“Oh, there’s a few things that I need to tell you. Are you sure these two can keep their mouth shut?” Idris points at Jasper and Wilhelmina.

“Guys, get ou—” Saine was interrupted by Iolana.

“They can stay. I trust them.” Iolana calmly answered.

“Are you sure?” Idris frowned.

“I have their secrets, it’s good.” Iolana tilts her head a little bit.

“Woah, what is my secret?!” Jasper is panicking.

“She’ll tell you later, now Uncle Idris tell us.” Wilhelmina glares at Jasper.

“Well, Iolana. Get ready to be hex!” Idris tells the news like it’s a birthday party, full smile, little claps. This man is crazy.

“Idris, slow down.” You can see Iolana is slightly panicking. “What did I do?”

“It’s not a you problem, it’s Slevado.” Idris laughed. “As usual.”

“Ugh, those bitches.” Iolana couldn’t hide her hatred toward that nation. “What did they have in mind this time?”

“First of all, do you know this?” Idris holds a necklace in front of her face, for her to see clearly.

“That’s… how did you… is my brother alive?” Iolana is out of words. The necklace was Tama’s. He always wears it wherever he goes. It’s his treasure.

“He might be alive, I’m not sure. Can you sense him? It took a lot of energy for someone to transfer their real time vision to me, let alone letting me grab a thing. He’s a great wizard.” Idris complimented Iolana’s brother.

Iolana doesn’t say a thing, she holds the pendant of that necklace and focuses her energy to find her brother.

“We found you in the woods. We don’t know who turned you into a vampire, but you’re safe here with us.” It looks like they’re having a feast. Tama is right there, sitting next to Holstein.

“I’m thirsty.” Tama looks miserable.

“I know, drink as much as you want.” The heir of Slevado is such a sweet talker. It scares Iolana off.

“You’re all so kind to me, what do you want from me?” Well, Tama is still Tama after all. Straight to the point and couldn’t trust people easily.

“Nothing! You can live here, this is your new home.”

Tama stares at him blankly. “Why?”

“You’re strong, you knocked out my guards. That’s why I decided to bring you here, to my castle.”

“You want me to be your guard?”

“No, we just want to give you a better life. That way you can explore more of your powers. We just want to help you.”

“Okay.” Tama is still not very friendly.

The vision ended. Iolana drops to the floor slowly after she witnessed all that. Saine holds her arms, he feels sad for her. She doesn’t deserve any of this.

“Turn me into a vampire.” Iolana said helplessly. “I’m your only chance.”

“Iolana, take a deep breath. What do you mean?” Wilhelmina crouched down.

“If they’re going to strike Krashoviel with Tama as a vampire. None of you will survive. Tama is a lot stronger than me.” Iolana explained.

“How strong was he as a human?” Saine asked, hoping that Iolana could provide a specific detail.

“As strong as Ricardo, but heartless.”

They gulp in unison. Ricardo is young, but he’s already almost as strong as Jestel. Maybe it’s all because of Sarco’s hard training, but since he’s young… he still follows his heart sometimes. He often lets emotion take over him.

“He might be stronger than Sarco now… with the fact that he’s also a new vampire as well.” Idris strokes his chin. “Where were you guys going?”

“Just a walk to see the town.” Saine answered.

“Cancel it, we need to do an urgent meeting.” Idris said calmly. “All of us.”

—

The palace is nervous, Idris said he will bring Iolana to the meeting today. How the table has turned, vampire fears a mere little human. Such a funny scene to watch.

“What do you think just happened?” Odelia asked Jestel.

“Another vision, maybe.” Jestel guessed. “He’s your son, you should know better.”

“They’re here.” Sarco said, standing up to greet Idris and the people that he brings to the meeting.

Idris opened the door and let his son, Wilhelmina, and Jasper enter the room first. Meanwhile, he enters the room alongside Iolana. Anyone who studied the art of people’s aura will definitely notice the flame and shadow competing to take over Iolana’s aura. The whole room are terrified. It’s so suffocating.

“Iolana, what happened?” Jestel asked her gently.

Idris let Iolana make the announcement. “My brother, Tama Sterling, has been kidnapped by Slevado. They turned him into a vampire just recently. You need to turn me into one too. I’m your only hope.”

“How so, my child?” Sullivan asked Iolana. Genuinely curious as to why she’s their only hope.

“They brainwashed Tama. It’s not good, Tama is far stronger than me even as a human. He will end you without any difficulties as a fresh vampire.”

“Do you know the possibility of his power right now?” Sarco asked.

“Do you know my grandfather? Thessio Sterling?”

“Oh, I’d rather not. I agree, turn her into a vampire.” Sullivan had a war flashback from that name alone.

“Is he that strong?” Wilhelmina is clueless.

“He’s dead and grandpa still has goosebumps just by hearing his name. What do you think?” Jestel asked Wilhelmina.

“Well, one of you should be Iolana’s host vamp then.” Wilhelmina nods.

“It’s not that simple. She needs to bond first.” Odelia is opposed to that idea. “Iolana, I’ll give you time to choose until Jestel’s birthday party.”

“Jestel’s birthday party? Do you want us dead, Odelia?” Sullivan sees this as an emergency.

“No, we must wait. Let her choose. Who wants to be his host vamp?” Odelia knows what’s going on.

Jestel, Jusarlie, Saine, Sarco, and Hiael raised their hands.

“Oh, my vamp.” Ricardo mumbled under his breath.

“What the fuck are you doing, Hiael?” Jestel yelled.

“What?” Hiael seems unbothered.

“Put your goddamn hand down.” Jestel couldn’t believe this.

“I was just answering Your Majesty’s question. I’m not going to be some ambitious Iolana’s chaser like you and the others.”

“Then put your hand down, don’t make this more complicated than it already is.” Saine tries to stay collected.

“I was just being honest?”

“See?” Odelia turns to her father.

“Iolana, I’ll guide you to choose a host vamp. Feel free to ask about anything. I’ll provide you with my information.” Idris said to Iolana.

“Sarco, I want you to train Iolana to be as strong as you in her human form.” Odelia ordered.

“Are you sure?” Idris is concerned. “As strong as Jestel would be enough.”

“We need someone who’s stronger than Tama, we can’t let anything out of control.” Odelia explained. “Do you copy, Sarco?”

“Yes, Your Majesty.”

—

Dinner time is almost ready, Iolana is in the bathroom. Preparing herself. Well, today is not nice to her apparently. She sees fresh blood on her panties. This is the least thing that she needs right now. Iolana panicked, she didn’t know what to do. She quickly changed her panties and washed the blood stained one.

“Iolana, let’s go.” Jusarlie’s voice makes her gulp.

“Jusarlie… tell Jestel and the others… my menstrual cycle is here.” Iolana holds the door with her body, just in case Jusarlie lost control.

“Shit.” Jusarlie panicked. “Wait, I’ll tell them. Don’t open the door to anyone before we gather here.”

For half a minute, she waits there patiently. Afraid of what could come for her.

“Iolana, it’s us.” Their voices somehow calmed her down. “Don’t open the door just yet. We could lose control.”

“What should I do?” Iolana is scared.

“Wilhelmina will take you to the basement’s bedroom. You should stay there for a few days.” Jestel explained. “It has triple protection door. You should be safe there.”

“T-triple?” Iolana was surprised by that.

“Yes, three iron doors. So, we can’t come in easily.” Jestel answered. “Why did it come faster than it should be?”

“Probably because I’m stressed.” Iolana took a guess. “I’m sorry to bother you, guys.”

“It’s okay, it’s not your fault.” Jestel reassured her. “Okay, we’ll be out of the house for a bit. You listen to Wilhelmina, okay?”

“Okay. Thank you.”

“Take care of her, Wilhelmina.” Saine taps his cousin’s shoulder.

They are out from the house, along with the butlers, maids, and guards. Waiting outside, while Iolana is being moved from her room to the basement.

“Iolana, let’s go.” Wilhelmina said gently.

Iolana opens the door slowly.

“Oh, wow. They would lose their mind if they were here. Come, quick.” Wilhelmina brought Iolana’s bag.

Iolana clings to Wilhelmina and they go to the basement in a second.

“Alright, I’ll explain fast. Every mealtime, they will give you food through this little food elevator. Remember to not open the iron door. It’s there for a reason. Jestel has prepared this room especially just for you, so I guess everything is here? If there’s anything you need, just talk through telepathy. You’ll figure it out. You’re a Sterling.” Wilhelmina smiles. “I’ll go. The door will be locked once I get out, only you can unlock it afterwards.”

“Thank you, Wilhelmina.” Iolana nods.

“Alright, you take care right here.” Wilhelmina waves before closing the ordinary door. Iolana could hear the iron door closing one by one while Wilhelmina walks out.

The basement’s bedroom is not bad, a good place even. Sure, it’s smaller than the original bedrooms, but it’s enough for Iolana. She began to unpack her things, praying that her menstrual cycle wouldn’t last long.

Meanwhile, the dining room is unbelievably quiet. Everyone tries their best to focus on their food and drink.

“Her scent. I’m going insane.” Jusarlie’s eyes dart to the secret door that Wilhelmina and Iolana pass through earlier.

“Yeah, tell me something I don’t know.” Saine is doing the same thing.

“Hold yourself together.” Jestel told them.

Sarco seems like he’s not listening, though. He’s done eating. Now his eyes keep staring at that secret door.

“Sarco.” Ricardo tries to call him. No response.

“Sarco?” Wilhelmina is worried now.

Sarco is gone in the blink of an eye. They were all panicking and rushed to the basement. They felt great relief when they saw Sarco is just standing in front of the first layer of iron door.

“Iolana, summon me if you need me. I know you’re in pain. I could help.” Sarco sounds so tempting for Iolana.

“Sarco?” Iolana replied hesitantly.

“Yes, just remember that you can summon me whenever you want.”

“Iolana, don’t listen to him.” Saine scoffed. “Summon me, instead. I know you better than him. We shop together, remember?”

“You’re high, let’s go.” Wilhelmina tried to drag Sarco and Saine out of there. “Do not summon any of those guys, Iolana. They’re not in their right state of mind.”

“Sarco…” Iolana whimpers loud enough for them to hear.

Oh.

That awakens something inside them. Something deeper. It crossed the line, it’s unethical. It’s something primal.

“Iolana, summon me if you need help. You know the words, Darling. You did it once yesterday, you can do it.” Jestel bangs on the iron door.

“Iolana, I could bring you your favorite novels. Just summon me, okay?” Jusarlie is also banging at the door.

“Jusarlie?” Iolana did leave the book that she’s currently reading.

“Iolana, you need me, right?” Sarco looks so desperate right now. That is surely not on anyone’s bingo list.

“Iolana, go to sleep. Don’t listen to them.” Wilhelmina keeps her sane, to be honest. Iolana is close to summoning one of them.

She knows it’s wrong, but at the same time it feels very right. She needs one of them. Menstrual hormone messes up with her.

“My vamp, I need to call Idris.” Wilhelmina faked a deep sigh. “Jasper, help me.”

“Let’s go.” Jasper nods, they immediately go to Idris as fast as they could.

Idris, who’s currently busy with customers, is puzzled by their sudden appearance.

“Wilhelmina, Jasper, what’s wrong?” Idris stopped stirring his pot.

“Iolana is in her menstrual cycle, and we couldn’t get the four of them away from the basement’s door.” Wilhelmina informed Idris.

“Bloody hell, couldn’t it pick a better time? I’ll be there in a minute, keep an eye on them.” Idris nods at them. They rushed back to the mansion while Idris excuse himself to the guests, “Could you wait for maybe ten minutes? I need to take care of something. Vampz in love, you know.”

“Sure! We could wait, Sir Idris. Take your time.”

Idris smiled at the guests and rushed himself to Jestel’s mansion. He goes straight to the basement and found an uncomfortable scene. Jestel, Jusarlie, Saine, and Sarco are practically begging. Beyond desperate to open the iron door.

“Collect yourself.” Idris goes to his son first, he slaps him a few times. Not working. Saine is still high. “This is what you get from giving your blood so generously to someone you just met.”

“Is this normal?” Jasper is curious.

“Yes, this is normal, if Iolana is a vampire. Well, unfortunately for us, she isn’t a vampire. Yet.” Idris sighed. “They’ll riot if we drag them upstairs. I’ll knock them out. Ricardo, Jasper, Hiael, help me transport them to the living room.”

Idris began to knock them up one by one with just a touch on their nape. Idris is indeed scary.

The others do what Idris said earlier, they’re now gathering in the living room. Idris sealed access to the basement for the four of them.

“When will they wake up?” Jasper asked.

“A minute from now, two minutes maximum.” Idris sighed again. “This is troublesome, we have to turn her into a vampire as soon as possible.”

Saine opens his eyes. His head is dizzy as he tries to sit. “What happened?”

“You were high, you dumb fuck.” Wilhelmina scolds him.

“Oh, I remember now.” Saine nods. “Is she okay?”

“She’s fine as long as she doesn’t interact with any of you lovestruck heads.” Wilhelmina scoffed again.

Jestel and Sarco are slowly opening their eyes too.

“Did I drink too much? What happened?” Jestel had no idea as well.

“You were high due to Iolana’s amazing scent.” Jasper laughed.

“Really?”

“Why do you think I need to call Idris here?” Wilhelmina scoffed.

“Oh, I apologize.” Jestel giggled.

“Iolana, please! You need me, Iolana. I could help you.” Ricardo mocks them.

“I didn’t say that.” Sarco shook his head.

“I am not even exaggerating anything, ask Hiael.” Ricardo is fed up.

“He’s right.” Hiael nods.

“Iolana.” Jusarlie sit straight, making the others surprised by his sudden move.

“Is he still high?” Ricardo looks confused.

“Iolana needs me.” Jusarlie said before completely disappeared in front of their eyes.

“ABSOLUTELY NOT.” Idris panicked. He rushed to the basement to check if Jusarlie teleported or walked. Wilhelmina and Jasper follow him along.

Their hearts dropped when they saw the basement was empty. Iolana summoned Jusarlie.

Iolana summoned Jusarlie.

“Iolana! Iolana! Don’t be ridiculous now!” Wilhelmina panicked, banging at the door. “Iolana! What are you doing?”

“She’s in good hands.” They could hear Jusarlie’s low chuckle from behind the doors.

Idris couldn’t say anything. He was speechless. He went back upstairs, hugging Wilhelmina and Jasper.

“Idris, what happened? Where’s Jusarlie?” Jestel is puzzled. “Why did you put a spell to lock us out?”

“Let’s just hope Iolana is alive and well after this.” Idris said calmly.

“What the fuck do you mean by that?” Sarco is annoyed.

“She summoned Jusarlie.”

The room felt thick. Completely shocked at the announcement.

“But she’s mine.” Sarco said almost to himself.

“Papa, you’re joking.” Saine tries to be as positive as he could be.

“Saine, let’s just hope she makes it out alive.” Idris pats his shoulder.

“Why? Why? WHY?!” You could hear the despair in Saine’s voice. “Why not me? Why?”

“Idris, read the future. Is he going to be her host vamp?” Jestel looks very insane right now. He grabs both of Idris arms. “Tell me, Idris. We need to know.”

“I’m not sure, but you still have your chances. If she makes it out alive.” Idris answered as much as he needed to.

“I’m going to chop his head off.” Sarco closes his eyes, holding his anger in.

“This isn’t fair. I’m going to kill myself.” Saine grabs a fist of his own hair. He’s very devastated.

“Let’s just hope she makes it first.”

—

“Baby… you need me?” Jusarlie almost lost his self-control when he was being summoned at Iolana’s room.

“Jusarlie, if you drink some of my blood. Wouldn’t my menstrual cycle end faster?” Iolana asked a very difficult question right now since Jusarlie can’t think straight.

“Oh, baby… should we try?” Jusarlie voice got deeper. Iolana could see his eyes darkened at her words earlier.

“Let me make sure of something first.” Iolana smirks back at him. How brave. Jusarlie raised an eyebrow, what could she possibly do?

“Kneel.” Iolana stares right into his eyes.

Jusarlie suddenly lost control of his own body. He kneeled in front of Iolana. He doesn’t even know what is going on right now.

Iolana giggled, “I was right. Let’s try it, Jusarlie. I hate my menstrual cycle.” She shamelessly lifts her night gown and slides her panties down with that pair of innocent eyes staring at Jusarlie.

Jusarlie? Still kneeling. He’s drooling now. This girl is so fucking dangerous.

“Come and get it, Jusarlie.”

He doesn’t have to be told twice, Jusarlie quickly positioned himself between Iolana’s thighs. He inhales deeply. “God, Iolana, you smell so good.”

Iolana squirmed under his touch, she held her whimper.

“Thank you for the meal.” Jusarlie didn’t waste any second to finally lick her bloody folds down. It was the most delicious blood he had ever tasted. He is becoming more passionate as he sucks her clit, trying his best not to bite her.

Iolana is a total mess, she couldn’t contain her moans anymore. Her hips moving up and down, all because of Jusarlie’s talented tongue. And he doesn’t plan to stop. He licks her like a kitten, her blood is intoxicating.

Jusarlie swirls his tongue inside her, making her cry out a whimper. One of his hands naturally reaches up to lifts her night gown higher. Once he found her breast, he fondles with them with both of his hands, pinching her nipples slowly and plays with them like a toy.

The pleasure from her core and her breasts is enough to make Iolana breaks, “J-Jusarlie… fuck… it feels so good.” Iolana’s breathy voice makes Jusarlie’s cock twitch.

“Don’t say it like that, you’re making me hard to control myself.” Jusarlie opens his eyes and stare at Iolana fucked up face. She is so fucking beautiful. He would not share this with others. Iolana should be his and his alone. He sucks at her pretty pussy until there’s no blood left coming from her vagina. It was the most delicious meal he ever had.

“Are you sure you don’t want me to be your host vamp?” Jusarlie climbs up while caressing her body, teasing her. Her jolts stroke his ego for sure.

“No, not yet. I haven’t decided.” Iolana is sweaty, out of breath, after Jusarlie devoured her pussy.

“I don’t want to share you.” Jusarlie holds her face gently.

“That’s your problem.” Iolana smirks again. “We’ll see if this method works tomorrow.”

“You’re cruel.”

“Never said I’m not.” Iolana makes him sit by pushing him while she raises her body to sit as well. “Now, you get out like the way you enter this room.”

And just like that, Jusarlie is gone in the blink of an eye. Iolana is very satisfied with the power she currently holds right now.

—

Jusarlie is back in the living room. His smile never leaves his face. He licks the remaining blood on the tip of his lips, unaware of the eyes that stare at him like he just did something really bad.

“What the fuck did you just do with her?” Jestel holds his collar.

“None of your business.”

“Tell me she’s alive.”

“Oh, she’s alive! Breathing normally, body temperature is normal for human, heartbeat normal, and… well pleasured.” Jusarlie giggled at himself.

“Did you fucking touch her?” Sarco’s blood boils.

“She asked me to. Not to brag about it or anything—”

A thud makes the whole room shocked. Saine just punched Jusarlie in the face.

“Don’t say any word about it.” Saine looks insane. He completely loses his mind. What the hell did he do wrong? Jusarlie is not better than him. Why did Iolana choose Jusarlie instead of him?

Jusarlie laughed like a maniac. “Just know that the sweet scent did not lie.”

Jestel, Saine, and Sarco stare down at him. Full of hatred. Full of jealousy. What makes the feeling worse is they can’t do anything about it.

In the very same room, Idris, Jasper, and Wilhelmina know that the future is going to be more complicated than they anticipated. As if the four of them being insane isn’t enough, Iolana chose the crazy path as well.

TO BE CONTINUED...

; YOUR CUTE REBLOGS AND COMMENTS MAKE ME FEEL REALLY GRATEFUL <3 ; FEEL FREE TO HIT MY ASK IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTION ABOUT THE WORLD BUILDING OR CHARACTER!

© ily-sunghoon, 2024 DO NOT COPY, STEAL, PLAGIARIZE, OR REPOST ON OTHER PLATFORM DO NOT TRANSLATE WITHOUT PERMISSION

[berryblosom]

DUMPLING ˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ ❀ Osamu Miya X fem!reader

S: rumours cause you to have doubts about your relationship with Osamu, he proves you wrong.

You were completely aware of what people thought of you. Growing up with the Miya twins definitely came with its fair share of attention, unwanted of course but when your best friends are as popular as they are it’s hard to stay hidden. Even till this day, 10 years later you’re still the subject of pointless gossip and rumours.

You spend a lot of time with Osamu at his shop, it was like your little haven to escape to after a gruelling day of work. Of all the rumours that went around about you the one that came up the most was that you and Osamu were dating. It’s true you were a lot closer to the younger Miya twin and compared to Atsumu who is often away, you saw Osamu almost every day but that didn’t mean you liked him.

Liar

Fine you were madly in love with the man. It was easier back in high school when you barely talked because you knew Atsumu first but without the loud mouth blonde as your buffer you were at risk of spilling your secret and ruining your friendship with him.

“You look deep in thought, what’s up dumpling?” You could just melt into a puddle right there and then. Osamu adopted the nickname name dumpling for you back in high school, it was used as a tease at first because your mom once only packed you dumplings for lunch for a whole week but now your heart lurches every time you hear it.

“It’s nothing, just work stuff.” You awkwardly lie and laugh hoping he’s doesn’t push it. Osamu notices though, you’re not asking him a million questions about how his day was and you barely touched the meal he placed infront of you five minutes ago.

“That moron from work still bother ya?” You shake your head no. The moron in question was your manager who seemed to have it out for you. When you invited your coworkers over to have lunch at Onigiri Miya, he didn’t quite make the best impression on Osamu.

“No he wasn’t in today thank goodness.”

“Then what’s got ya in such a huff?” He ruffles your hair and you swatt his hand away.

“I’m not in a huff, just….do you think I’m clingy?” You’ve gone and said it now, you peer up at Osamu hoping he didn’t find the question strange but he just looked confused.

“Of course not, at least not in a bad way.” What did that mean? You were glad the shop was closed otherwise people would hear how pathetic you sound. “Whos got ya thinking like that?”

You hesitate but decide there no use in hiding it from him.

“The other day, that girl from our high school came in remember?” Osamu tips his head back trying to remember, he gets a lot of customers so it was hard to remember them all but he does recall how excited you were to see some old classmates.

“Vaguely.”

“Well I bumped into her again and she said that I was clinging to you a lot and that she wanted to talk to you but I wouldn’t let her.” You bury your face in your hands, you didn’t have the guts to look at him. You didn’t want to tell him but if you were stopping him from talking to girl no matter how much it hurt you wanted to know.

“Why would she say that? I didn’t want to talk to her.”

“It’s okay if you did! I know I’m here a lot and she seemed really into you.” Osamu frowns at how you were pushing away and not looking at him.

“What about you?” You finally look up from your palms to see him pouting down at you.

“What about me?” You face flushes slightly as Osamu bends over the counter to come closer.

“Are you into me?” Your eyes widen and it took all the core strength you had not to fall backwards from you chair. Osamu didn’t break eye contact, he was a cool as he always was while you were spluttering and trying not to burst into flames

“W-why would you ask that?”

“Because i want to know.” He states verily. Osamu had his own speculations about your feelings for him, he hoped it was the same as the ones he had for you but he wanted to hear it coming from your mouth.

“If I said yes, what would you do.” You fleeting confidence was the only think keeping you from fainting in his moment.

“Don’t play with me dumpling.” The silence in the room was deafening. Your palms were sweaty and Osamu being so composed made you sweat even more.

“You didn’t answer my question.” He narrowed his eyes at your cryptic attempt to challenge him. The space between your faces was almost nonexistent, you eyes flickered every few seconds between Osamu eyes and his lips hoping your want to kiss him wasnt too obvious.

“I would kiss you and ask you out on a date.”

“Real-“ before you could finish Osamus lips were on yours. His cold hands come up to cradle your face and his thumbs caress your cheeks softly. You grab the back of his neck and pull him closer to you. Never in your dreams did you imagine your first kiss with Osamu would be like this let alone in his Onigiri shop.

Osamu breaks for a second, breathing heavily. “I’m sorry, you just looked so pretty.” His pecks your lips and travels all around your face. “I wanted to do this for so long.”

How long?” You we’re on the verge of tears, happy ones of course but knowing that Osamu may have had the same feelings as you this whole time was upsetting. You could’ve been together since the beginning but you were too afraid.

“Since we met.” He looks down when your eyes widen in shock. “I was just scared you didn’t feel the same or that you’d never talk to me if I told ya.” You were both such idiots.

“Oh samu, I feel the same.”

“You do?” He grins

“Of course I do, I was just afraid of the same thing.” He picks you up onto the counter and swings your legs over to the other side so he could stand between them. You lean in for another kiss, this one much deeper and passionate than the last. His hands slip to your waist, sneakily snaking his fingers under your shirt.

You break once again but keep you forehead rested on his. “Soooo if I wanted to skip the date and ask to be your boyfriend ya wouldn’t run for the hills?” You laugh making Osamu smile.

“I wouldn’t, but I still want the date.” You tease and hug him close, resting your head on his chest.

“Anything for you pretty lady.”

[i2valeri]

ִֶָ 𓂃⊹ ִֶָ i <3 yang ! for todays shenanigans hani tries to bring valerie to her senses, because she doesn’t ACTUALLY believe a single soul could like her. 蝴蝶 so yang jungwon comes to the rescue.

valerie was definitely anti-social. she really didn’t know how to express her feelings, so it made her feel a tad bit odd in a group of loud introverts or hyper extroverts.

she didn’t force herself into any group hangouts or conversations, but of course her closest co-member, hani, always invited her to stuff without her being able to say no.

“I think val wants to come.”

“val likes those kinds of things.”

“we should invite val.”

valerie always depended on hani as she was 2 years older than her, practically her older sister. she was glad to have someone that could always stay by her side you know? someone that can help her fit in—

“valerie song!” the older girl snapped valerie back to consciousness, they were both sitting on the edge of the bed face to face, “valerie! come on! I can’t always be the one who’s helping you with getting along with your other members!” hani nagged the younger girl, while valerie just sighed.

“easy for you to say. any word that comes out of your mouth, suddenly everyone bursts into laughter.” valerie crossed her arms, kinda disappointed that just this one time, hani wasn’t siding with her.

“it’s not my fault I’m enfp.” hani pouted, valeire was right. the typical extroverted energetic girl who could make anyone laugh with her jokes, someone who was friendly and out going.

in-fact, valerie was the opposite of whatever hani was. valerie was infj, typically described as “INTJs look rather intimidating. INTJs are famous for their death stares.”

exactly what valerie was to almost everyone else.

“most of our members are sociable, val ! trust me ! it’s not hard to get closer with them!” hani held valeries shoulders, shaking her softly. “easy for you to say.”

“what would you do if I’m not there and you guys are together? sit quietly and not even spare a glance…?”

…that was the plan. valerie thought to herself, just giving hani a glance of guilt. “don’t tell me you were thinking it.” she wasn’t ACTUALLY planning to do it.. right?

“…” valerie stayed silent; looking down at the ground like she was taking into consideration, focused on thinking. “fine.” valerie had finally agreed to something, she agreed upon trying to get close to each member one by one.

“oh my god! yes! it will be so worth it when you guys are finally close !!” hani squealed in excitement, “who did you get closest with first? who’s the easiest to get close with?” valerie asked curiously.

“actually. come to think of it, it was jungwon.”

valerie definitely did not expect jungwon to come out of hani’s mouth, jungwon seemed like a quiet introvert, but when she saw him during hangouts and conversations, his personality said otherwise.

but sometimes, jungwon seemed a bit neutral when it came to valerie since she was someone he didn’t know yet personally, “jungwon ?! how am I gonna get close with him ?!” valerie asked in confusion.

“val.. trust me it’s gonna be easy for you—”

“hani. I noticed whenever I passed by jungwon he wouldn’t even spare a glance, when I said hi he would wave slightly and walk away. I swear… that man does not like me!” valerie ranted as hani watched her, waiting for a chance to talk.

“jungwon… doesn’t like you?” hani said in denial, “yes! he obviously doesn’t want to be associated with me.” valerie face planted into her pillow.

“oh my god val! who do you think is the one who’s always asking to bring you into conversations and hangouts? it wasn’t me… it was jungwon who always asked me to bring you into convos!” hani corrected her bestfriend, valerie.

“what?”

“val he wants to be close with you! he is always saying ‘i feel bad for val, i understand she can’t express her feelings. I wish I could talk to her’ yadaydada! that’s what he says val! he wants you to be included!” hani suddenly confessed,

“jungwon was the first person to bring you up in whatever we would do! he’s a caring leader… he loves all of the members! mostly you val… mostly you!” hani nagged the stunned girl.

so it turns out… every time she got invited… it was jungwon who initiated it ?! “wait… so if jungwon never initiated to invite me, would you have not invited me…?”

“of course not! but it was jungwon who always asked me to do it, val he’s shy to talk to you.”

“everyone is! they all like you, but it just seems like you don’t like them.”

“val this might seem straightforward. but they all do love you, they want to be closer with you. they hate the distance, they think your the one distancing from them.”

oh my fucking god! if this is what they think about valerie… what could they be talking about at dance practice right now …. ?!?

⠀

⠀ 🎐 𓂅 我爱你 . . !

⠀

“plan to talk to valerie has now officially started! who wants to start their idea first ?” heeseung stood up on the couch, like they were doing a whole project to finally stop being cowards and talk to valerie.

“what if we invite her to a restaurant and hang out? seems like we could get to know her more like that.” sunghoon smiled softly at the mere thought of overcoming the fear of talking to val.

“you guys are gonna make it awkward of how you don’t even notice her when were are all sitting together in the dining room.” jungwon said from across the room, arms crossed but not that far.

“so in simple terms… we go to her?” jay asked, his hand on his chin, head resting on his hand. “no shit sherlock, how could she go to us ?!” jake playfully hit jay on the shoulder.

“what if we go to her, we could watch a movie. her favorite movie! what’s her favorite movie?” sunoo said, while riki was finishing his sentences. “wait what’s her favorite movie?” riki asked.

“oh that’s hard…” jake thought hard, he thought ‘valerie’ but the sheer thought of val made him giggle and chuckle like a little kid. “I got nothing.” he sighed softly.

“heeseung, do you know?” the zoned out hamster who has still standing on the couch suddenly snapped out of it and turned to jake, “I don’t remember… if she probably ever told us, I was just looking at her most probably.” heeseung scratched his nape in guilt.

“jay? sunghoon? got anything?”

“nope.”

it was decided, the boys knew absolutely… nothing about what valerie liked or what she didn’t liked.. except for one. “guys. it’s dead poets society; she told us !! how can you not remember?”

“ohhhhh yeah” they said in unison, “i guess jungwon has one point score in val’s heart.” sunoo said sarcastic, but the boys obviously didn’t take it as a joke.

“so are we gonna talk to her?” ni-ki asked, the boy was clearly nervous. “what am i gonna do? dress up as a dead poets society character and suddenly we are two peas in a pod?” ni-ki joked around, but he was really in-fact scared to even make eye contact with the girl.

heeseung tapped on his hard notebook, making everyone turn to him. “plan initiated.. operation talk to valerie has now started.”

“if I talk to val I might shit my pants and pass out.. I can’t even look at her!” jake was going CRAZY. and so was everyone else, just by thinking that they were gonna finally talk to val.

thinking of @valerieace ?!

okay I loved this chapter. nd I hope you did too 🫶 if you read this first chapter THIS FAR I love you sososooso much. okay that’s it 🙏

[verystrxxwberry]

Hello! I hope you’re doing well! I noticed your requests were open so I was wondering if you could write a headcanon for Eldarya about MC/Erika or whatever you want to call her giving the ANE guys attitude? Like being upset for whatever reason (that doesn’t necessarily involve them) and them having to handle her in some way? Anyways if you don’t feel like it don’t worry about it, I’m just glad you’re back!

ELDARYA; ANE routes when you’re upset

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𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭: sfw, ANE routes when you are angry/sad/unhappy. ↝ 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫'𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞: Hi, I am doing great, thanks for your words and request! I hope you enjoy these headcanons <3 and I am sorry if there is any spelling mistakes...

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NEVRA

The moment he greets you and you simply ignore him or answer in a not very nice way, he becomes worried and wonders if you had any trouble in your day. If he didn’t do anything to make you upset, he is aware of that and doesn’t tend to overthink. In fact, he goes after you and sits besides you, placing his hand on your back.

He got used to dealing with Karenn being upset while growing up, so he knows how to be patient in these situations.

He stays there with you and caresses your back. “What happened? Your pretty face seems mad.” He talks with a low tone to not stress you even more. And even if you don’t want to talk about it, he stays there unless you ask otherwise.

Once you explain to him what happened, he won’t act unless it’s a very unfair thing. He cares about you and he knows you are strong enough to do things on your own. He can give you advice and cheer you up to act, because come on, babe, go eat them up. In case it is something very unfair, don’t worry, he is gonna be there to eat them up too.

If it was his fault: The moment he realized you wouldn't like one of the things he did, he already started planning how to apologize. He can read your expression pretty well, and he feels bad when you look so drained. Why did he do certain things that he knew you wouldn't like? Ah, that's simply because he wasn't thinking. He was simply impulsive.

Don’t try the silent treatment with him because he is gonna be so needy for your attention at some point that he will cross his arms and sit in your lap -no matter if he crushes you- or lay down his head there and say “are you willing to forgive me?”, “come on, chill a bit and let’s talk”, “I won’t move until that moody face disappears.”

He is capable of pinching your cheeks to bother you, but it can only go two ways… good or bad…

He will not let you go until you feel better.

LANCE

He is genuinely confused and overthinks the situation. Why didn’t you accept his cheek kiss?- He has already done too much bad stuff to allow himself to hurt the one he loves the most in his current life. He’d be like “Uh, what did I do..?” 

If it’s his fault, he is gonna search for the best way to make it up to you, because he has a mask to keep in front of others and being in a tense situation with you makes him not be able to focus on work. At first, he would give you time to be alone and not be so invasive. He probably did a mental speech of what to say to fix it for the last few hours, and when he feels prepared, he kneels in front of you and grabs one of your hands. “Darling, could you please listen to my words for a bit…? I want to be honest…” His voice is softer than usual, you can even feel that the authority and roughness he always speaks with disappears and there is a vulnerable side of him showing at this moment. 

In case you forgive him, you would notice how he leaves a few kisses on your hand as thanks, without saying anything else. In case you do not forgive him.... well, he would leave a timid kiss on your hand and mumble "It's okay, I understand. I'll be patient." Although inside he's truly impatient to know if you forgive him....

He'll never do whatever he did to make you unhappy again.

If it’s someone else’s fault, he is going to talk with the person that made your day worse, or to reassure you with a hug -because he doesn’t know how to comfort too well with his words-. Put him on a leash because if he finds out that someone has done something bad to you, he won't hesitate to have a 'serious conversation' with them. 

LEIFTAN

Being your soulmate, he can feel the anxiety that has formed in you at the moment when what has upset you happens. Even if you are far away, he is already thinking about what he will do when he sees you. Maybe you need your space, or maybe you'd like him to be there to calm you down.

Very patient, he has had to deal with Miiko's and Lance's anger many times -although sometimes they would get on his nerves, but Leiftan knows how to keep some serenity and calm so that things don't escalate to more-. So, he will listen to you and then give you the advice you need.

And don't be afraid, because whether it's his fault or not, Leiftan will never judge or devalue your reasons for feeling bad. Whether it's because of some insecurity of yours, some accumulation of stress or something, he's going to nod his head and let you let it go. You don't have to be ashamed of feeling negative emotions.

If it is his fault, it is most likely a misunderstanding or some minor action of his that has accumulated with the stress you were already carrying. He has no problem apologizing from the bottom of his heart and clearing up anything that was misunderstood. In case it was something external, Leiftan will be able to advise you.

And after speaking to you sincerely, he would lean towards you to kiss your head and caress your shoulder gently. "I encourage you to be more direct with your thoughts and not let them accumulate like this. When you burst out, you can end up hurting yourself and others, and you don't deserve to carry that pain alone by yourself." She would explain in almost a whisper, while pressing little kisses on your head and shoulders.

MATHIEU

He is concerned and a little bit paralyzed, not knowing how to act. He takes a deep breath. He is not used to dealing with his partner being like this. He approaches and hugs you from behind and asks “Have I done something to upset you?”, notoriously worried.

Mathieu genuinely doesn’t know what he did if it was his fault, so you should refresh his memory if it was the case.

And man, a pout appears on his face, feeling guilty of making you upset. "Oh, jeez... Forgive me." And his arms wrap around your waist, hugging you and burying his face in the crook of your neck. The most likely thing that bothered you about him was dealing with all his energy at some bad time, because Mathieu can be intense with his games and pranks. There are times when even if you tell him to stop his prank, he can keep it up, and many times throughout his life he has found himself in the situation of having annoyed someone by his explosive energy of happiness.

To cheer you up, he would leave you alone for a while while he goes to prepare your favorite food. And suddenly, from behind you would be caught by an arm that would drag you to bed. In a matter of seconds you would be wrapped in a blanket that surrounds your whole body except your face, and in your lap a bowl of your favorite food. Mathieu would hold you between his legs, letting you rest your back against his chest and saying. "Even if you are angry, have this delicacy as an offering of your forgiveness, your majesty..." 

He would just stay there, hugging you silently -except if you bring up a topic of conversation- while you enjoy your meal. He will be happy to see you enjoying it, and even more, when you forgive him he will be very excited.

If it were for an external cause, his response would be "Oh, honey, I know the world is an unfair place...but let's try to cheer you up now and we'll figure out how to deal with it later." He's not much of a counselor, but he does know how to distract you from whatever negative situation you find yourself in.

✩; remember to reblog and like to support my content. I hope you enjoyed it!

[wanderinghedgehog]

Time to finally relay my thoughts on the Les Mis I saw August 3rd, 2024.

Keep in mind, I went into this as someone who wanted to get my mother and brother to like this story. Also, I’ve seen a million and one recordings, so I know the show pretty well already and am aware of my preferences concerning it.

Act 1

Intro was so good. I like the boat format for the prisoners. It gives the actors something to do and is good and clear tonally.

This Javert did not make a strong first impression. He seemed extremely muted idk.

So I’m not a Nick Cartell fan. I’m sorry. I just don’t like him that much. I might be able to explain why at some point.

The lighting was amazing in these opening scenes.

The bishop had such a nice voice. I always love the bishop.

Valjean went nuts with the “took my fliiiiiiiiight”

Oh I forgot to mention that all of the house lights hadn’t turned off yet. It was a little weird. They eventually got turned off either before or after Valjean’s Soliloquy.

Speaking of the Soliloquy, I’ve heard a recording of this actor singing this song before and it definitely sounds better in person. Better, but still not my favorite. Nick Cartell has a tendency to stray from the melody for acting purposes in a way that I’m not a fan of.

Also, this version had Petit Gervais. It was weird. And distracting. And disjointed. I didn’t like it.

I love a good ensemble number, so at the end of the day was great. Also, the transition from the crowd to the factory was so smooth.

I remember the foreman I think had a line that changed from the original that I was kinda confused about. Overall, I think this was a thing with both at the end of the day and lovely ladies. Like there were a handful of words that were switched and I didn’t understand why.

This Fantine was quite good. Like I’m glad this was the Fantine that I saw with my mom and brother. Solid performance.

This Bamatabois was odd. I think he was too much of a caricature.

Once again, Javert is quite subdued. Intimidating, sure. But not all that interesting otherwise. No swagger.

The staging of Fantine’s Arrest felt just a little busy, but that’s really a nitpick.

When did they cut part of Fauchelevent’s line in Runaway Cart?

So I really listen for how an actors says the line “forgive me sir I would not dare.” This was fine. Nothing special.

I will say that I liked Nick Cartell’s version of Who Am I.

Fantine’s death was so sad. I prefer versions like this where they don’t have her get out of bed. It’s simpler and it gets across her weakened state a little better, I think.

Confrontation was amazing. This Javert was really starting to prove himself here. It’s like the actor just started having fun with it.

This little Cosette was absolutely adorable. I’m not usually a fan of Castle On A Cloud, but this was great.

This production had a good Thenardier couple. Their comedic timing was great. This is not to discredit the amazing job that they did, but I’m not a huge fan of the Thenardiers. My family liked them a lot though, so they were definitely very funny.

So Look Down was a success because my family immediately liked Gavroche. As they should. My brother said that that the Look Down melody was one of his favorites.

Now I think it’s good to mention that this version didn’t have the time skip projections. Like those things that tell you what year it is. None to be seen. It confused my family. I was cool with explaining it though.

My brother found Marius annoying. +1 sibling point. We can make fun of Marius now. (to be clear, the actor was very good)

This Eponine was pretty cool, but my mom pointed something out that I think is worth mentioning. She’s not lit very well. My eyesight is shit, so I’m trusting my mom when she said that it was impossible to see the actor’s face.

This Cosette is so adorable. Like everything about her so sweet. In love with her.

This scene had an interesting set design that I don’t know if I’ve seen before. It looked a little more slanted than usual. It was cool though.

The beginning of Javert’s Intervention got a laugh, so that was good. He really leaned into the drama more than before.

During Javert’s Intervention, I tend to find Thenardier’s part a little overwrought and distracting. Unfortunately, this was one of those cases. My brother liked it though.

Javert kinda went back to being subdued for Stars. Actually no. He brought some energy for “and so it must BE”

Les Amis in this production were fantastic. My mom really liked Red and Black apparently.

This Enjolras had a weird fluttery vibrato that I’m kinda obsessed with.

Kyle Adams’ performance as Grantaire was magical. I don’t know if I can point out specific moments, but it was fantastic.

I am once again in love with Cosette.

Neither my mother nor brother were fans of the romance aspect of the story. I don’t blame them.

That said, the harmony at the end of heart full of love was angelic.

One Day More is always a showstopper. No notes.

Actually, I will mention that Javert hasn’t changed costumes yet. We don’t get to see his disguise til the second act. I kinda like that because, if you don’t recognize him immediately at the barricade, it makes the reveal later kinda fun to watch.

Oops turns out I’ll have to post this in two parts

[scrumptiousstuffs]

Wandee Goodday Episode 8

In which we have many confessions (both wanted and unwanted), further (mis)communications and the sweetest proposal scene in BL land.

First thing, YeiCher owned this episode. These 2 just complement each other superbly. I’m sure we will see some conflict down the road with Yei hiding the debt of their boxing gym from Cher, but for now, I’m basking in joy with the fact we have YeiCher being formally engaged in a timely fashion to commerate with the Thai senate officially passing the bill to allow marriage equality in real life!

As for our YakDee…I’m a bit confused. Look, I am thrilled they made up quickly - Yak giving back that ugly necklace (it’s not to my aesthetic taste but I am definitely glad it made it back to Dee’s neck!), Dee informing Yak he no longer has any feelings for Dr Terrible plus Yak sweetly informing Dee “this hottest and most dashing boxer is yours.”

So…WHY ARE THEY STILL IN A FAKE BF relationship?? I initially thought I might have misunderstood the whole thing. However, when Dee asked Yak to accompany him to the hospital anniversary ball - Yak said “again?” And Dee saying otherwise he would accept Dr Terrible invitation to the ball.

And what made it clear these 2 adorkable idiots have yet to re-define their relationship properly is the conversation between Dee and his wise grandmother - she sensibly asked whether YakDee is still just FWB? And Dee said there is a dateline to their relationship? Maybe someone who is cleverer than me can explain this? - is it cause Dee is angling for the scholarship and thought he would have to leave Yak anyway??

Cause why will you cook for him, dry his hair, massage his aching legs in front of the whole gym, learn how to slow dance, take him to a fancy costume place and pick up a matching grooms outfit if you are both not in love with each other???

Despite my confusion about their relationship status, I did love the whole ballroom scene - from Yak dashing in last minute in time to ask for his prince for the dance, YakDee slow dancing and Yak finally confessing in words that he is in love with Dee. Does that mean they will finally be real boyfriends next episode? (Although from the preview, they are STILL NOT together as real boyfriends?)

Dr Terrible remains shameless and desperate. If I’m not mistaken, Dee rejected him 3 times in this episode alone - when he indirectly decline Terrible’s invitation to the ball by expressing he will be bringing his significant other, saying no when Terrible said he will dance with Dee because of Yak non-presence at the ball. And when that did not deter Terrible (he tried to kiss Dee! 😤), Dee bluntly say he has outgrown Terrible and only regards him as an older brother. However, Terrible has yet to learn his lesson - he left his date (Dr Khwan you deserves better) to again try his luck with Dee. So, I’m glad it seems Dr Khawn left him after Yak timely arrival to save his prince from the evil clutch of Terrible.

As for Taemrak, I do feel bad for her. It’s clear now she does have some feelings for Yak. I think pre-Dee, Taemrak might have taken for granted of Yak’s friendship and affection for her. He was always there for her with his easy banter. But with Dee around, Yak no longer txt/msg/meet up with her beyond school. Nevertheless, I’m glad she still trust Yak to come for her aid (although I must say, what a plot twist - didn’t think Ohm will be so nasty. And Yak, couldn’t you have told Dee why you had to leave him suddenly before the ball??) Like I say, (mis)communication seems to be the theme of this episode.

Overall, I like the episode. I was hoping for more of Dr Kao though, but YeiCher sweet scenes made up for Dr Kao’s absence. And 2 big thumbs up 👍 from me for their ongoing PSA re: HPV vaccine! ❤️

Bring on episode 9!

[cadet-aviator]

Meeting the Admiral (2)

I remember very well how I felt, what I saw, what I heard.

First of all: I was on my knees. This was new.

Bending forward as I was instructed to do, then in one smooth movement put my hands on the floor on either side of my head and press my brow on the floor …

… keep that pose for a minute, and then raise my body, remain on my knees, put my hands behind my back. Head bowed. Silent. ‘Don’t speak until you’re spoken to’. 

I remember staring at the Admiral’s shoes. They were perfect. I was pretty good at putting a shine on my boots, but these were incandescent.

I felt in awe of the person who had done this for the Admiral, because clearly he didn’t shine his shoes himself. I may even have thought that I’d like to show him what I could do, with shoes.

Another thing that left a deep impression on me was how fascinated everybody else in the room was.

This was clearly because I was just about the only non-Asian person there, a fresh European boy, in perfect uniform, kneeling for an Asian officer.

For a lot of these men this was something they had never seen before. There was a sense of triumph, I guess – ‘Now they’re bowing to us…’ – but also a sense of envy: why was His Excellency so interested in this otherwise low-ranking cadet? What made him so special?

The Admiral was taking his time, chatting to his aide, while I was there, on my knees. Then he became very friendly – expressed his pleasure at my involvement in cadets, and so forth. I duly responded what a wonderful experience it had been for me, so far.

And then the Admiral mentioned that it might be just the thing for me to spend some time in the Elite Cadet Camp, in the mountains. When he said that, I could hear the other officers concur, quietly – ‘That’s a wonderful experience’, ‘It really made me as a soldier’, ‘Great memories’, and so on. I had heard of it, but didn’t know more than that it was tough, fiercely disciplinarian, and somewhere high up in the jungle.

I stared at the Admiral’s shoes, and felt the strain of bending forward, and I said, humbly, that I would be honoured to attend, if the Admiral felt I was suitable. 

‘Excellent, that’s the spirit, I’m sure you’ll do well, there, cadet.’ And then, to his aide: ‘Please contact the cadet’s parents straightaway, and set this in motion.’

To me: ‘Alright, boy, I’m glad you’re keen to go. It will be an invigorating experience, I assure you.’

And then the aide whispered that I should make the same sign of reverence again, bow deeper, and then get up and move away.

Which I did. The other cadet, whom I knew slightly, stood next to me and whispered ‘Well done, mate, you’re fucked.’

I was numb. And enthralled. And overwhelmed. And confused. And honored. And numb. I had no idea what was next.

[queenofmistresses]

If you have time:

Zekina - timeless

A/n hope you like it!! This took me so long and it was so worth it!!

It was in 6th grade the Zeke fell in love with Tina. He was new, and scared out of his goddamn mind about a new school (again) and just wanted to fit in. Being a hall monitor (as she proudly told him) she gave him a tour around wagstaff, looking after him the whole day, she was very attentive the entire day. She introduced him to Jimmy Junior and both her siblings, and spent the whole day being sweet and kind in a way he didn’t experience before. Other schools never bothered showing him around with any kind of dedication, knowing that he could be moving again any time soon, but even when Zeke tried to insist it was necessary because of this, Tina just brushed him off, telling him how much she enjoyed her hall monitor duties and proceeded to what he still refers to as the best tour ever.

In 8th grade things got increasingly complicated and he squashed his feelings down deep. After her birthday party, he got an excited call from Jimmy Junior about his first ever kiss. With Tina Belcher. He could tell how happy J-Ju was about it, and he was never the type to go after his best mate’s girl, so he tried to forget it. Unfortunately it wasn’t that easy.

The mad pooper incident? He didn’t like to talk about it, but everyone remembers that. Then there was the day of his Grandmother’s surgery. He swears he’s never loved her more than that moment. So much so he practically confessed it, by telling her how determined he is for them to be married. Then the science fair incident. Not his first kiss (to his disappointment) but definitely the best kiss he had had so far in his life. He spent many years thinking about that kiss. Asking himself so many questions. Why had she kissed him? Him of all people? Yes she’d kissed J-Ju as well, but she hadn’t kissed anyone else. Did it mean something?

It wasn’t until a couple years into high school that Tina saw Zeke differently. She had decided she finally has enough of the on and off again relationship with Jimmy Junior and broke up with him for the last time, making that point very clear to him. After that she lost some friends, realising they only hung out with her because of Jimmy Junior. Some of them she was glad to be gone, the likes of Tammy and Jocelyn, but others she missed. And honestly? She missed being friends with Jimmy Junior. It was weird.

But one day her science teacher paired her up with Zeke, and she felt awful. Her mind was riddled with thoughts of regret and humiliation. Knowing he was friends with Jimmy Junior and hating that he was put into this position. But she played nice and invited him to her house to do the work.

They sat down on her bedroom floor with various pieces of paper and stationary surrounding them, an awkward silence filling the air.

“Okay look I’m just gonna say it now so it’s out there otherwise I’m not going to be able to think about anything else. I’m so sorry that you got paired with me, I know I’m the last person you want to work with. I-if we separate the work out to things we have to do then we don’t even really have to work together and I can just put it all together at the last minute and you’ll never have to speak to me again! And then you won’t have to deal with me.” She blurts out in one breath, desperately avoiding eye contact with him.

He’s just confused. “You- what? Why wouldn’t I want to be around you?!” He looks at her in shock, having spent the last few months missing her like hell.

“Because Jimmy Junior’s your best friend. And I broke up with him. And I’m… horrible?” She whispers the last part out, not entirely sure she’s getting her point across.

He sighs and brings a hand to his face, trying to rub the worry out of his features. “T-bird, you’re not horrible. And yeah J-Ju’s my best friend, but he wasn’t good to you. I don’t know why, he doesn’t like to talk about it, but the point is that’s not your fault. You deserve better, I don’t blame you for breaking up with him.” He admits, desperate to show her that he wants to be friends again.

But that just confuses Tina more, “Then why did you stop talking to me?”

“I thought you didn’t want to talk to me! I mean come on girl I let it happen! I watched him treat you like garbage and I didn’t do anything!” He looks away from her. “I couldn’t blame you for not wanting to hang around me anymore.”

Tina blinks. And blinks again. And just for good measure, to make sure she had really processed what he’s just said to her, she blinks once more. “So we both blamed ourselves but wanted to keep hanging out?” She asks slowly, still wrapping her head around the new information herself. He looks up at her and she can’t read his face for a moment. But then he laughs. And it’s the most beautiful, kind, relieved laugh she has ever heard. She starts laughing too, just as relieved.

When they calm down they look at each other just smiling for a small moment before Zeke finally speaks again, “So… friends again? I’ve missed you T-bird. It’s not the same without you.” He says and she blushes, feeling incredibly embarrassed and confused as to why she does, but she nods, and sees as even more relief fills his eyes and watches how his entire body relaxes.

Eventually they manage to start some work, after a long overdue catch up on each other’s lives. It’s one of Tina’s favourite days to think back to.

Much to both of their strain, they don’t do anything about their obvious-to-everyone-but-themselves crushes on each other for another year. Tina’s affections for Zeke grow stronger and stronger every day and she finds herself quickly falling harder than she ever did for any of her other boy obsessions in the past. Certainly more than Jimmy Junior.

And Zeke, well he’s as whipped as day 1. He spends every moment he can with her, helping her with school work, taking her to the movies any time she mentions a film she wants to watch, taking her to the aquarium after school at least once a week, driving her to and from school.

Jimmy Junior can’t even find himself to be upset at the fact that Zeke spent so much time with her than him, not once he’d finally seen them interact in person, and watched how much genuine love and affection was in his best friends eyes when looking at her. And seeing how much more love was in Tina’s eyes than he had ever seen, it stung a little but he couldn’t help but smile and tell Tammy to shut up when she tried to make a comment.

Thanks to this Tina and Jimmy Junior even managed to find a way to feel comfortable around each other again, even feeling like friends for the first time in a long time.

They finally made it official when Zeke got offered a scholarship at one of the best culinary schools in the state. He had made it! He was able to go to his dream school and he finally had a chance to make his dreams come true.

To absolutely no-one’s surprise, the first thing he did when he found it was race to Tina’s house. She opened the door and tackled him into the tightest hug she could, the moment he told her the news. “I’m so proud of you Zeke. You did it!!” She breathed out, squeezing him impossibly tighter.

He pulls back slightly to look her in her eyes, his big grin fading into something softer when he could see how happy she was for him. “T, I-” He begins but she cuts him off, a surge of bravery coursing through her as she presses her lips against his in a searing kiss. She desperately tried to pour every emotion, every word she had tried to say so many times, into this one act of affection. Zeke felt it all and took everything she was giving him with no hesitation. They both felt as though they were drowning. Forgetting everything else in the world around them but each other.

When they finally come up for air they just look at each other, their breaths mixing with each other in an almost suffocating but enticing way. “I love you Zeke.” She whispers, watching his face grow into an even happier grin than when he first arrived, before he whispers back the same thing, softer and more heartfelt than anything she imagined in her dreams.

They kiss again, with even more passion and if Jimmy Junior feels himself tearing up a little from his position in his restaurant, he certainly won’t tell them that.

When they both go off to college they’re sad to not be as close, but they call every day, text basically 24/7 and they visit each other as often as they can. Neither of them have a moment of doubt through it all. They talk about the future a lot, their from their greatest ambitions to the small moments they’re looking forward to.

Tina starts looking at houses and dreaming of sharing it with him every day. Her writing improves tenfold thanks to how head over heels in love she is, and she takes inspiration from her devoted boyfriend to stream it into every piece of work she does.

The next big moment in their lives is when they both graduate. Zeke graduates with an offer to work at an extremely high end restaurant- thanks to many glowing reviews from professors, and Tina graduates with an offer to publish a book of hers, they couldn’t be more happy with their lives. Especially once they find an apartment for them to live in together. They truly make the place their own and they’re favourite parts of the day are waking up in each others arms, and when Zeke comes home from work and they can see each other again.

After a year of living together, Zeke proposes. He prepares Tina’s favourite meal, lights her favourite scented candles, wears a suit, buys her a new dress, and plays her favourite songs. Just them. In their first home. Years after Tina fell in love with him, and even longer after Zeke fell in love with him. He tries to do a whole speech, but he splutters as tears fill his eyes and his voice breaks. Tina cries too. At first she can’t get the words out, nodding furiously, until she’s finally able to squeak out a small, “yes”, and Zeke slides the ring onto her finger.

10 months later they both cry again as they desperately try to get their wedding vows out. There isn’t a single dry in the house then either. Even louise doesn’t bother hiding it.

2 years later, Tina gives birth to 2 beautiful girls. Zeke says she has never looked as beautiful as when she held those girls in her arms for the first time. There are tears in everyone’s eyes then as well.

Zeke is the best girl dad ever. His entire life is devoted to his girls, and he is not afraid for everyone to know it. He makes sure that all of his girls always feel how strongly and ferociously he loves them all, and how much he would sacrifice for them all if it would just make them smile.

At 89 years old Zeke goes to bed, lying next to his adoring wife, and passes away in his sleep. When Tina calls the ambulance, almost hysterically, they tell her that she died with no pain and in peace. She cries more then, than she ever has before. Their children cry when they hear the news, and so do their grandchildren. Their great-grandchildren don’t quite understand but they cry as well.

His funeral is filled with nothing but loving stories from everyone who ever knew him.

6 months later and it’s Tina’s turn. She swears she can feel it coming that day, and wonders if he knew too. Thinking back to that day. She’s convinced he hugged her just that little bit tighter, loved her that little bit louder. And maybe he didn’t but spending her last day thinking about every beautiful moment spent with her love is exactly what she wants to be doing.

Her death is peaceful and painless. There’s even a small smile on her face as she closes her eyes and lets sleep consume her one last time

[roo0-0]

“ I’m not your son!” Tim yells as he run out the manor doors. Bruce and Alfred were stunned. What had gotten into Tim? What was wrong? “Woah B what’d you do?” Dick said dryly having over heard the tail end of the argument. “I- I don’t know.” Bruce was a master detective and even he was puzzled on what brought upon this outburst. “He’s having one of those gross ‘I need my dad’ moments but your not his biological dad and you didn’t choose him to be robin; he chose himself so now he’s angry-sad.” Jason said a lot of weird stuff and this was one of the lesser of some things he’s said but everyone was still very confused. “What?” Bruce asked. “He’s having a-“ “I heard you jay but how do you know that?” “He was mumbling about it when he got infected with fear toxin last time we fought riddler.” Once Jason finally shut his mouth he realized Dick’s and Bruce’s eyes were twitching. “And you didn’t think to tell anybody!?” Dick was not impressed by Jason’s lack of communication skills especially when it came to one of their brother’s feelings. “I tried to talk to Tim after he got the antidote and some rest but after about four words he started yelling very loudly until I stopped talking. Then later when I suggested he explain how he felt to Bruce he grabbed his bow staff and tried to smack me in the ribs with it; so I left it alone.” Jason said shrugging. By this point Batman had been face palming and pinching the bridge of his nose interchangeably for five minutes. “I’m going to go find Tim and talk to him. NO ONE follow me okay?” Bruce said opening the manor doors as Dick and Jason shook their head hard enough to give themselves whiplash.

“Tim?” Bruce called poking his head around the corner into the garden Alfred, Jason, and Cass had started. “Go away Bruce.” Tim choked out; it was evident that Tim had been crying. “I think I might know what is going on?” Bruce said it almost as if it was a question. “Do you really now?” Tim laughed dryly lacking any and all humor in his voice. “Jason told me something. He said that you didn’t feel like my son and that you felt you weren’t worthy of the Robin title-“ “that snitching bitch” “Tim language. But I’m glad he told me cause it’s opened my eyes to something I would have never thought about otherwise. Just because you chose to be Robin and I didn’t choose you doesn’t make you any less of a Robin and it doesn’t make me love you any less. Tim you are my son and although I may not be your biological dad, I can still be your dad if you allow me.” Tim sat there stunned. This was a lot of emotions for Bruce to be showing all at once and he didn’t know how to respond. He started to cry “Bruce… thank you. You and Alfred were the first real father figure I’ve ever had but it felt like I didn’t deserve it.” Tim said looking at his shoes. He never knew how to interact with Bruce and Alfred like all his siblings did; he wasn’t chosen like they were he just showed up exposing his secret identity and asked to be Robin. He wanted so desperately to go to Bruce when he was struggling; or as Jason ‘that bitch’ Todd called it: an “I need my dad” moment. He felt like had no where to go with his emotions cause the one person he could go to was rarely around. Dick used to always be there for Tim; letting him cry into his arms or sparing with him when Tim was angry. Now? Now Tim felt isolated and alone in his feelings. “Tim? Jason said something and I think that’s what’s going on right now. He said you’re having an ‘I need my dad moment’ and I need you to understand this: you can always come to me to complain, punch, or cry too no matter what. I’m your dad now and I want to be that support for you. Will you let me?” Tim didn’t know what to say. He just flung himself into B’s arms and cried. Bruce hugged him as hard as he could trying to get his point across that he was there for him.

The next day when no one was around Bruce cried a little feeling so happy and so sad all at once for letting one of his kids suffer in silence. That day he mentally promised his kids to never let them fester in their feeling for that long ever again.

[evannakita]

I made a crossword puzzle!

It's June 24, 2024, and I'm the constructor of today's daily crossword on Puzzmo! It's my first-ever published crossword, and I'm extremely excited for the public to check it out!

Below the cut, I've written out some fun tidbits about the puzzle and the process of making it. That being said, SPOILERS follow—only read further if you've already completed the puzzle!

Hi again, I hope you had a fun time solving the puzzle! I certainly had a fun time constructing it. I’m incredibly grateful to Brooke for organizing Puzzmo's Open Submission Week, for giving me a second chance to submit after the theme of my first submission wasn’t a good fit for Puzzmo, and for helping me throughout the process of theming, filling, cluing, and hinting.

This puzzle began with the idea of using a diagonal to spell out something that actually is diagonal. As a public transit enthusiast, I’d initially thought of [FUNICULAR]. But the idea quickly expanded with the decision to also include horizontal and vertical answers corresponding to horizontal and vertical things. And since [ELEVATOR] was by far my favorite possible vertical answer, that left [ESCALATOR] as the obvious choice for the diagonal. Initially, I’d planned [CONVEYOR] for the horizontal answer, but Brooke pointed out that conveyors typically aren’t used to carry people the way escalators and elevators do. The next option I proposed was [TRAVELATOR], but I ended up liking [CORRIDOR] more, because I wanted the puzzle to have diagonal symmetry if possible.

Already, I had a ton of constraints for filling the grid—each letter of [ESCALATOR] had to intersect not one but two other answers, which would have been tricky even before adding in two other theme answers and diagonal symmetry. So I ended up spending countless hours testing out possible grid layouts in order to try to get a good fill. At first my idea was for all three theme answers to intersect at the bottom right, but I chose the current layout to represent how escalators and elevators don’t actually go between the same two points, meaning that when a train station is designed around escalators; [ELEVATOR] users are forced to also use a [CORRIDOR] to cover the horizontal distance. (Here in NYC, that makes for inconvenient wheelchair access to the fancy new platforms at Grand Central Madison, and it also means the planned accessibility upgrades at the Broadway Junction subway transfer will be a massive undertaking.) I personally find designing efficient train station layouts to be a lot of fun, and so I greatly enjoy the game STATIONflow, and I thought it’d be appropriate to shout it out in this puzzle’s title!

I did end up eventually managing to get a fillable grid (thanks to Ingrid and Spread The Wordlist—oh hey, yet another thing Brooke deserves major kudos for!), but due to all my self-imposed restrictions I had very little flexibility in what the non-theme answers would be, meaning I was stuck with some tricky ones like [SIDE A] and [ALDIS]. But honestly, I think the limited flexibility made cluing more fun than it otherwise would have been, since I now had the challenge of finding fun clues for answers I didn’t pick. I got to revisit some happy memories in 4-Across and 18-Across, I got to shamelessly plug my DeviantArt in 11-Down, I got to shout out an incredible activist in 19-Across, and I got to be unreasonably proud of myself for coming up with 10-Across. Some of my original clues were too long and confusing for Puzzmo (I was slightly sad to shorten my original description of a [T BAR] as a “low-budget chairlift alternative that’s basically an anchor that hooks around your butt and pulls you up a hill”), but Brooke was a tremendous help with capturing the spirit of my clues in fewer letters. And a couple clues were straight-up Brooke’s ideas, including 1-Across, 5-Down, and notably 17-Down—I hadn’t heard of Ayra [STARR] before but her music is excellent and I am very glad to have learned about her through this.

Brooke was surprised I wanted to hint my own puzzle, and I get why—hints aren’t meant to be entertaining, and coming up with good ones can be quite challenging. (Shoutout to Matthew for being an absolute hinting MVP!) I actually quite enjoyed all the lexical games, though—the “mancala” anagram for [ALMANAC] was a very satisfying find, and I was quite proud of how my hint for the crossword staple at 27-Down was able to match the Minecraft theme of the clue. (Of course, the flipside was that some hints, like the one for [KORRA], had to jump through a lot of hoops to get to something coherent.)

I realize this is probably way longer than it needs to be, but making this puzzle was just such an experience. I’m absolutely going to keep making puzzles, and that’s all thanks to Brooke and Puzzmo.

[dracothedeatheatingcupcake-ao3]

Wearing Your (not) Boyfriend’s Clothes (Ishimondo Week 2024, Day Three)

Oooh, would you look at that, ANOTHER Ishimondo story??? What are the odds??

Ha. But here's day three's fic! It's a silly one today, very light and fluffy with just a hint of spice. ;-) It's to make up for yesterday's story... ha. It... doesn't quite fit the prompt "role swap" in the traditional sense, but this is where my mind went when I first saw the prompt, and I'm glad it did, ha. I really like this story and think it's super cute.

It also works for tomorrow's prompt (competition), so I decided to write a part two for that prompt. However, like I say in the notes of this fic, I don't know if I'll be posting tomorrow. I actually got an idea for Day 5, prompt "gift," and I've been busy writing that whenever I wasn't editing this. I took a break from writing to post this, but I want to go back to writing that fic when I have time, before I lose inspiration. But don't worry! I will eventually write part two to this one. Just... it may take a bit, depending on my energy and inspiration level, oof.

Also, fun fact: Because of how long the summary is, and the fact it's italicized, I literally cannot edit the fic without AO3 telling me that the "summary is too long" despite the fact that it let me post it in the first place. So... that's fun. 😅😅 Here's hoping I don't have to edit it... otherwise, bye bye italics I guess... Oof.

You can find the story here

Summary:

“Am I… am I having a stroke…? I’m having a stroke, aren’t I?” Leon asks, eyes wide as he looks at the rest of their classmates at their usual table, who are looking as confused and freaked out as he is. Mondo lets his eyes wander the room then, feeling both giddy and nervous when he sees that they’re currently the center of attention of the whole room. …  “I wouldn’t think so, Kuwata-san. It seems that the esteemed Ishimaru-san and Owada-san have simply decided to merge their beings together to create the ultimate symbol of hope. How wonderful,” the weirdo Nagito suddenly chimes in, cheery voice as grating as always. Mondo turns his glare to the weirdo, but doesn’t say anything, like he usually would. Sadly, while Mondo usually never hesitates to curse the fucker out whenever he’s being his creepy, weirdo self, Taka tends to ignore him, unless he’s breaking the rules. Which he usually isn’t, unfortunately. Being weird isn’t against the rules, Taka always claims.  But then— “Fuck off, Nagito,” Taka suddenly states boldly, a scowl on his face that is such a good imitation of Mondo’s usual scowl that he honestly can’t look away even if he wanted to. 

[modern-day-bard]

Other Duties As Assigned: A Joel Miller AU Fanfiction

Content Warning: 18+ This story includes mature themes such as drinking, stalking, violence, and explicit smut. Minors, do not interact.

word count: 3.7k

ao3 | wattpad

Chapter 20: Gravity

Joel

On one of my first assignments as a rookie, the diplomat placed in our care was ambushed during a rather standard procedure, driving him from one checkpoint to another. Gunfire rang out around us, and dust clouded our vision. My heartbeat was so loud, I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to hear when the assailant approached us. There was a moment where I was dragging the client to safety, as fear left him nearly paralyzed.

During training camp, when I was only twenty years old, our crew became lost. I thought that they must know where we were, but as we began to starve, I thought otherwise. Members of our squadron were restless, some begging to be released from the program. But there were no officers around to hear them and grant them a discharge. There was no way for us to get back. It went on for almost two weeks before they finally found us.

That is why, with over a decade of harrowing experiences under my belt, I can say with absolute certainty that last night was the biggest test of willpower I have ever had.

People tend to make rash decisions when they’re under the influence of adrenaline. My experience has taught me that as well, time and time again. But in true Gwen fashion, everything about last night was completely unexpected.

I’m just glad you’re alright.

I had seen how Gwen was with her friends, her coworkers, and everyone she interacted with who wasn’t her father, or someone on the board. She was kind, genuine, and occasionally maybe even a little soft. Even still, never did I think that would be her reasoning for kissing me the way she did.

Especially not after I almost yelled at her in her apartment. My fear fused with frustration too soon. I was furious with her for leaving, and the image of her standing there, armed with a piece of decor in her silky pajamas, only made me more angry. Not at her, but at whoever keeps toying with her. I should have known she wouldn’t listen, but knowing that she only came out like that because she was afraid for me? That fueled my anger for this stalker into a full blown rage.

But the look in those eyes when she asked me to stay…

There would never be an answer other than yes. Or, always. Of course. However long you may want me.

She seemed scared, but with a woman that stubborn, I know that if she seems scared, she is terrified.

Instinct had taken over, and I wrapped my arms around her without thinking. But feeling her tremble beneath my hands was more than enough motivation to muster up the appropriate restraint. The temptation only reared its ugly head again when the regret and dejection written all over her face made me want to kiss her senseless. To kiss her everywhere, only stopping to tell her she’s done nothing wrong, that she’s okay. That we both are.

But I did resist it, even when she was unknowingly inching closer to me on the bed. Even as she slept, her hand reached over the covers, coming close enough to me that I was worried my breath would wake her up. I already knew what I felt for Guinevere Russell. I didn’t need a kiss to confirm that. What I hadn’t known was how befuddled her feelings might be, and how guilty I would feel for having to resist her.

She was anxious, wanting to blow off some steam.

I’m just glad you’re alright.

I twist my head again to look at her face, as I have been for the last few hours. Her lips slightly parted, any lines of frustration melted away. She looked so peaceful now. She was beautiful when she was angry, but she is absolutely dazzling when she is at peace. Unbearably so when she laughs. It would be impossible, downright unthinkable, that a woman like her could have any feelings at all for a man like me. Let alone lust or wanting. I wouldn’t even call it lust. It was just confusion. It had to be.

I’m just glad you’re alright.

I twist to my other side, hearing Gwen let out a small noise as I do so. Why had she been thinking of me at all? This was my job. I was here to protect her, regardless of the outcome for me. That had always been the job.

I’m just glad you’re alr—

Enough.

I stand up from the bed and bolt to the bathroom, only slowing long enough to close the door softly. I brace my arms against the sink, flexing my back and shoulders until they’re on the brink of straining.

Checking my watch, it’s 6:50am already. She’ll be waking soon. Last night aside, I’ve never seen Gwen sleep in on a work day. I huff out a long breath and turn the shower on, hoping the water will rid me of hearing her voice, her concern, and the relief I felt on her lips. I stay under the water for an extra five minutes, scrubbing my hands multiple times, though it doesn’t quite erase the memory of holding her waist. It doesn’t seem to rid me of my guilt, either.

My shirt sticks to me even after I dry off, but I don’t have any other options with me. I keep a go-bag in Rodney’s car, so at least I can make arrangements to change soon. I shake my hair in a towel before exiting the bathroom as quietly as I had entered, only to see Gwen sitting straight up in the bed across from me.

Her cheeks were tinted pink with sleep, but her eyes were wary from waking. Or more likely, they were wary from remembering.

“Morning,” she breathes, eyeing me carefully. Even under the covers, she adjusts the robe she fell asleep in to cover her shoulders more.

“Morning. How’d you sleep?” I cross the room to pull my phone out of my discarded jacket, mostly so I’d have a reason to look somewhere else. I take the opportunity to text Rod.

“Fine. Do you have the time?”

“It’s 7:10.”

Gwen groans, ripping back the covers immediately. “I have an 8:15 with Julian this morning,” she makes her way toward her bag, opening it up and ripping out the dress laying on top.

“You’re…set on going to work then?” I watch her rush into the bathroom and start to comb through her hair. I’ve watched her exercise, eat, and work, and yet somehow seeing her in a bathrobe, first thing in the morning, brushing her hair, feels like some immense, intimate privilege. It felt like someone I admire allowing me a behind the scenes look into their life. And after last night, I didn’t feel deserving of it.

“Of course I am,” she says, like it’s the most obvious thing in the world.

“Miss Russell, you’ve been through a lot.”

She doesn’t even take her eyes off of the mirror. “Staying here won’t make that untrue. And I can’t have anyone knowing what happened last night.”

“I won’t tell anyone,” I say softly. “If anyone asks I’ll say that I slept in a guest room.”

This gets her attention, and she looks a bit stunned. “I meant about the broken windows, and the note, especially,” she takes a shallow breath, “What else would I mean?”

You know damn well what you might mean.

“Got it.”

Her eyebrows scrunch down, but she goes back to the mirror, reaching for a toothbrush.

“Rodney delivered my bag downstairs, I’m going to grab it and get changed. I can meet you down there.”

“Oh,” Gwen’s eyes widen, her hand moving to rest on the doorframe. “You’re meeting him outside, or…?”

“No, ma’am, he left the bag downstairs. I’ll just change in the restroom down there.” I speak up a little, wondering if she misheard me the first time.

Gwen halts her movements, the toothbrush in her hand now suspended midair. Even from here, the fear etched into her side profile was glaring.

My heart cracks.

“It will take no time at all. Then I’ll come back up to get you.” I know she won’t ask for it, but she’s clearly not ready to be left alone.

“Okay. Sounds good,” her voice is cheerful, but clipped. I walk out before I make the mistake of asking if she wants to talk about it.

I change quickly into a fresh, dark pair of jeans and the light blue button up Gwen had picked out. I’m glad I thought to put some basics like deodorant, cologne and a toothbrush in the bag as well. When I return upstairs, I try to open the door only to find out it’s locked.

I knock, putting my ear against it.

“Miss Russell?”

A moment later, Gwen opens the door, looking as if she had her entire team style her. The dark circles under her eyes have been covered slightly, and her hair was soft and flowy in big waves. The deep blue dress she has on had to be one of the best things I’ve ever seen her wear, as it complemented her coloring and her curves remarkably well. Or maybe I’m just relieved to see some of the worry has left her face.

“I like that one on you,” she gives me a small smile, breezing past me as if every negative thing that happened last night had simply been a dream.

“Thank you,” my voice is hoarse, and I clear my throat as I trail behind her. When we’re inside the car, it takes me an extra ten minutes to think of how to phrase the next pressing matter.

“We should probably discuss future living arrangements today. I’m not comfortable with the idea of you going back to the apartment. Not until we figure out how they were able to break the windows without triggering the alarm.”

Gwen looks out the window for so long that I’m unsure if she heard me. Then, she whispers, “I’m not going to lose that apartment.”

“It will be temporary, I promise.”

I see her nod out of the corner of my eye. That’s enough about that for now.

I have a talk with the front desk on our way up to the office, letting them know that we will not be accepting any gifts or packages, and that they should be documenting who is trying to drop them off. I tell them that too many public relations offices are trying to get Gwen’s attention, and sending them here is inappropriate. The definitiveness of my voice seems not to raise any suspicion. After I escort Gwen to her meeting with Julian, I call Amari.

“Hey, Joel. How’s she doing?”

I take a few steps further into the hallway, making sure no one is around to hear me. “She’s shaken up, but she’ll be okay. Any news?”

“It’s news but it’s not good news, I’m afraid. Still no fingerprints. We’re guessing the rope helped someone lob them through the windows, and we’re still trying to figure out how they did it. Best guess is that it came from the high-rise next door, but we’ve contacted the owner and they’ve been doing repairs to almost half of the floors. It’s unlikely that anyone had access to the building during those hours, but not unthinkable. Especially if they were trespassing. We’re still looking into that possibility.”

“The strength to make it across the alleyway like that feels like more than a one-man job. And to make it into the correct apartment, no less.”

“That’s what I’m thinking, too. I have three of the guys scouting out that high-rise today, I can let you know if I hear of anything else.”

“Yeah, okay. Any idea on how they got past the alarm?”

“That’s the part I’m actually most concerned about…I can’t confirm it, but I think someone may have cut the power.”

“I chose the system myself. It doesn't matter if the power is cut, it’s hardwired. There’s also a backup battery that lasts at least three days.”

Amari is quiet for a moment. “I’ll have to check with the building staff. If that’s the case, it means someone cut the line from the inside.”

A shiver of regret and fear runs down my back. He’s right. He’s right and I hadn’t even considered it.

“Amari, if that is true—”

“We’re dealing with a highly knowledgeable, possibly highly trained, stalker, yes.”

“And it could be more than one person. And they’ve gained entry into a private sector of the building.”

“Yes.”

I lean my head back against the wall, silently cursing under my breath. “If the hardwiring was cut along with the power, they were in the building. So why then bother sending something through the window if they’re already inside?”

“That’s what I want to know. On top of how they got in the building in the first place.”

“Keep me posted. Thanks, Amari.”

“No problem. Also, Joel, this is just a theory, but it’s also possible they know she has a team with her in the building. Otherwise…I don’t see what would have stopped them from coming inside again last night.”

Again, my spine stiffens. I had known that I’m Gwen’s first line of defense this entire time. I hadn’t known how prevalent that threat may be, and just how invested I would become.

- - -

If Gwen had more energy, I know she would have groaned when I insisted she follow me into the kitchen after work. Though I did get a small gleam of pride when her face brightened once she saw the bowls. I had texted Melissa to prepare whatever comfort food Gwen used to ask for, and apparently that was French onion soup. It smells amazing, and Gwen closes her eyes to take in a long whiff.

“Thank you,” she says sincerely.

“Melissa made it.”

Gwen rolls her eyes, picking up her spoon. “I figured. But thank you for thinking of that.”

The soup tastes even better than it smells. Gwen had worked through lunch, refusing to come out of her office unless she had another meeting to attend. I imagine work is another form of distraction, just like last night. I try to push that image out of my head as I rip off a piece of bread from the baguette between us.

“Okay, what is it?” Gwen sighs, dusting her hands off on one another.

“Hmm?” I raise my eyebrows, mouth full of food.

“You keep giving me this look like you want to say something.”

It’s a bit uncomfortable how long it takes me to finish swallowing before I can answer her. “I spoke with Amari today, and I want to keep you updated like we talked about. I just wasn’t sure if now is a good time.”

“Ah,” Gwen gets up, making her way to the wine fridge before getting out two glasses. She lifts one to me, but I just shake my head. She pours herself a glass before returning to say, “Now it’s a good time.”

I tell her about Amari’s phone call, almost word for word. She whispers something in the middle of it.

“What was that?”

“The oven. The time was wrong. I remember seeing it, being surprised that it was only midnight.”

“It read twelve o'clock…like it needed to be reset.”

“From a power outage.”

“Right…dammit.” I take a long swig of water before I realize what I’ve said. Another small chip away at my professionalism. I peek over at Gwen, but she’s smirking.

“See? That had some twang.”

I chuckle, shaking my head at the floor.

“I have to say though, why would they care enough to cut the power? Throwing a brick through someone’s window is just as loud as an alarm. And if they knew about the alarm beforehand, they were willing to risk breaking into the building…but not my unit? There was going to be a noise either way, why would it matter?” She swirls her wine around in her glass in time with her contemplation.

“I agree. The other thing Amari mentioned is that they might have known you had security in the building with you. It could have deterred them from entering. I know your father doesn’t return for another week, but I would propose we find you a rental in the meantime if you don’t wish to stay here for the foreseeable future. And we should sign for it in another name.”

Gwen nods, chewing on the inside of her cheek, avoiding my eyes.

“That makes sense,” she picks at her non-existent cuticles. “Mr. Miller…knowing that, how your presence might have helped, only makes me more sorry for—”

“Isn’t this cozy?”

I stand, startled, blocking Gwen from view, only to see Daniel leaning against the doorframe. Unfortunately, this show of mine only makes him laugh.

“Easy, guard dog.” He saunters over to the other side of the counter so he can get a better look at us both.

“Guard dog? He has more of a right to be here than you do, stray.” Gwen glares at him, bringing me a lick of excitement.

“Oh, sorry,” Daniel says as if he lightly grazed someone’s arm by accident. He then grabs the extra glass, and pours a serving of whatever red Gwen is drinking. “Gwenny, what are you doing here anyway?”

“What am I doing in my childhood home? I could ask the same of you.”

“Your father needs something he left in the study. I’m supposed to scan it to him.” He eyes our bowls, “Are you staying over?”

His voice makes nails on a chalkboard sound like a quartet of soft harps. Why would a meal mean we were staying here?

“If it will stop your pestering, I’m redecorating. The smell of wallpaper was giving me a migraine.”

Daniel eyes her over the rim of his glass. “Ah…so you came to the most tranquil place you could think of.”

“I don’t know the meaning of that word when you’re around.”

The two of them stare daggers at each other, and I try not to make my distaste too obvious. Daniel might not have known what Gwen went through in the past twenty four hours, but this seemed to be his M.O. No matter the day, he wants to bury himself under her skin. And it was starting to make mine crawl.

“I think we’re done here,” I get up, taking Gwen’s bowl and stacking it on top of mine before carrying them over to the sink.

“Wow, look at that! He’s so well-trained.” Daniel laughs to himself, taking another sip. If it wasn’t decided before, I have decided now.

I walk over to Daniel, forgoing the option to return to Gwen’s side of the island, and I keep walking even when we are uncomfortably close. Even as I tower over him, and his back bumps against the counter, making his scared eyes grow even wider. I make sure my delivery is slow, controlled, and full of venom.

“Impeccably trained, Mr. Wilson. Perhaps you would give Miss Russell a bit of space tonight, so we won’t be in need of a demonstration.”

Daniel’s face turns beat red, and I can see the anger forming at the center of his pinched face.

“You do know who you’re speaking to, don’t you?” To his credit, he doesn’t fumble any of the words.

“I do,” I smirk down at him, “Do you?”

Daniel opens his mouth. Closes it. He opens it again, looking just as angry as he is scared, and yet nothing comes out.

I smile over at Gwen, whose lips are parted, looking at me like my hair just turned blue. “Are you ready, ma’am?”

“Y–yes.” She hops up from her seat, and again I feel that twinge of excitement. She’ll only stutter when she’s incredibly overwhelmed. It had hurt last night hearing it, knowing that I needed to ease up on her, knowing that she was scared. But now? I see that twinkle in her eye, burning brighter as I address her. I need to keep this ego of mine in check, especially as I guide her out of the kitchen, leaving a flabbergasted Daniel in our wake.

We walk in silence to her bedroom door. Gwen walks right in, dropping her purse on one of the chairs. I follow, but only a few steps inside.

“I’m sorry about him,” she says, “He wasn’t always such a nuisance, but he did always want attention.”

“It’s not your fault,” I lean against the dresser to the left of the door.

“Could you do me a favor, though?”

“Of course.”

“I might need you to come with me to buy him some Depends. He nearly shit himself.”

I laugh, real and guttural. For the first time in a long while, and it makes Gwen giggle in the way that melts every fiber of my being.

I stare at her for a fraction too long, and I end up rubbing the back of my neck for something to do. “Just for clarification, is it alright with you if we find another apartment? A hotel is too risky, there are too many people able to come in and out.”

“You’re asking for my permission? I’m honored.” Clearly the humor hasn’t died out from Gwen’s face. “But yes, that’s fine. I would rather do that than stay here, especially with the…unwanted guests.”

“Understood.”

The air grows thin with the silence that follows, and I know we’re both thinking the same thing. I’m worried, though, that she’ll be too proud to ask for it.

“Would it be easier if I stayed here again tonight?”

A small wave of relief rolls over her features. “I think it would. As long as you’re comfortable.”

“I’m comfortable.” I almost said that I’ve never been uncomfortable around her, but that would be a lie. The issue is, I’m not uncomfortable with her, at least not how she exists in reality. I’m very uncomfortable with my thoughts of her, and how infrequent my thoughts of duty and professionalism seem to be.

But when your center of gravity asks you to stay, how do you say no?

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