#Best places to visit in Madrid

[al-mayriti]

Hola, a friend and I are thinking about doing a sightseeing trip to Madrid in the middle of november. Do you have some insider tips what we should see? :)

hi anon, yes of course !!!

so, one thing about madrid, it isn't a monument city but a walking city. i'd say walking through the city center, centered around the two main squares, puerta del sol and plaza mayor (both also massive tourist hotspots so expect a ton of people). just walking around that area, around arenal street, calle mayor (main street), carretas street and others is enough to get a feel of the oldest part of the city (also called 'madrid the los austrias' or 'austrian madrid', when spain was ruled by the habsburgs). it's my favourite area honestly, alongside the barrio de las letras, which you can get to walking or in a few metro stops. its name translates to 'neighborhood of the letters' because a ton of writers lived here, and you can find phrases from spanish literary classics engraved on the streets, it's lovely.

apart from that central area, other cool spots i would really recommend you should check out is gran vía (busiest street in the city, it literally translates to 'broadway', it has a ton of theatres as well), malasaña (hip arts district, love the vibe, also it's so beautiful and there's always stuff going on, really nice place to go out at night as well), chueca (next to malasaña, it's the queer district!!! also very beautiful), debod (my actual favourite place in the city!!!!!! it's this hill that holds an egyptian temple - the temple of debod - that was gifted to spain after the aswan campaign, you can visit it and also the views from the city from here are lovely, you can find the best sunset here), el rastro (the largest flea market in the country, you can visit it every sunday, you can find anything here. also nearby, in the cuesta de moyano, there's a book fair also open only on sundays), retiro park (our main park, really pretty, it's very nice to just chill; it also has a lake you can row on, and cool statues and stuff), and the royal palace (it's open to the public if that's your thing, but the area around it is very very nice, i always end up here when i hang out with my friends).

now let's talk museums!!!! madrid has a ton of museums, i'll tell you the ones i recommend but depending on what you're looking for there's probably something for you. important to note is that at least the prado and the reina sofía museums are free everyday one hour before they close !!!!!! important !!!!!! check in case there's other museums that do this, but i'm unsure, i think it's those two and maybe the thyssen?

so. the main three art museums in madrid are the prado museum (the counterpart of the louvre, that sorta vibe), the reina sofía museum (our modern art museum, only stuff from picasso onwards), and the thyssen museum (ngl i haven't been here, it's a private museum made out of the collection of this one countess). all of them (more or less) are in the prado boulevard, which is also very nice to walk by so it's always lovely to go there even if you don't enter the museums. nearby there's also the national archaeological museum, my personal favourite one.

other smaller but also cool museums that i love are the madrid history museum (the facade is insane, also has tons of cool maps of the city), romanticism museum (an old romanticism-era palace with romanticism-era paintings and other stuff), cerralbo museum (underrated af; it is the personal collection of this one noble, the building itself is absolutely insane), and the sorolla museum (if you like sorolla this is your place!).

(i'm nearly done i swear)

if you have time and want to visit a nearby city, my recommendations are: alcalá de henares (really close to madrid, it has the second oldest university in spain, with a medieval feel to it, it also has the madrid archaeological museum - it was a roman foundation under the name of complutum - and most importantly, it's known for being the birthplace of miguel de cervantes, writer of don quijote!!!! you can visit his house, it's now a museum :), el escorial (deep in the mountains, it has the monastery of el escorial, maximum icon of spanish renaissance, it was the winter palace of the monarchy and holds the royal crypt, where most of spanish monarchs have been buried), toledo (oh if you love medieval cities you'll love this one. it was the first capital of spain, and it is most known for being the city that during the medieval times had christians, muslims and jews living peacefully. there's tons of churches, mosques and synagogues to visit, and it is very well preserved, with narrow steep cobblestone streets, cannot recommend it enough), and segovia (toledo is to the south of madrid, and segovia to the north! it is most famous for its roman aqueduct, the best preserved and highest in the country, and it also has a ton of historical buildings, including its alcázar, a palace that inspired the sleeping beauty castle !!!!!). also it's not a city but there's a national park in madrid, the sierra de guadarrama national park and it's super beautiful, it's this lovely mountainous area perfect for hiking or just chilling, and depending on when in november you come, you might see snow!

as a final warning!! i don't know where you're from but in november madrid is probably colder than you are expecting so make sure to pack some extra layers just in case !!!

[wanderlustphotosblog]

Plan Your Perfect Trip with this Zaragoza, Spain Travel Guide

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This Zaragoza, Spain travel guide post contains my Hotels.com, Expedia, Vrbo, and Viator affiliate links. I may receive a commission when you book a hotel or tour from this article, though at no additional cost to you. I hand-pick and recommend only the hotels and tours that I have thoroughly researched and feel comfortable recommending. While other cities in Spain may get more attention from…

[gistglobe]

The 10 Best Cities In The World For Solo Travellers

[girlgenius1111]

my business

barcelona femení x teen reader after losing her best friend, r gets a meaningful tattoo, but gives her teammates no details about it. her older teammates, especially alexia whom she lives with, are furious that she didn't talk to them first. angst city, sprinkles of comfort [loss, grief]

—

It had always been the two of you. From the first day of kindergarten, when you’d both found yourselves playing with the toy cars in the corner of the room. You were fast friends; probably because there was something about the other that drew you together. You both came from broken homes, barely enough pieces of parents to craft together a family between the two of you. She’d been your family, for as long as you could remember. 

Even when you’d moved across the continent to Spain to play for Barcelona, you’d remained close. You facetimed at night, scrolling through tik tok compatible silence. As everything changed for you, things remained the same for her. She was stuck in that broken home, a mirror of the one you’d escaped. Football had saved you, but Jackie hadn’t had a savior. And when you left, she was all by herself. 

Now you were too. 

—

You lived with Alexia, which wasn’t quite your choice. You’d started off in an apartment in the same building as some of the other younger players, but an amalgamation of circumstances had you moving into Alexia’s only a month into your first season at Barcelona. 

The call had, ironically, come in the middle of a very long 10 days all by yourself in Barcelona. It was just your luck that you’d picked up a strain in your calf the week before, leaving you off the squad for your own national team. Initially, you’d been looking forward to some down time. Then the call had come in, and you were thrust into the painful realization that you were all alone. 

Olga was kind, above anything else, and she hovered a lot less than her partner did. The first five days had been a nice break from the rush and chaos of your regular schedule. Maybe you would have told her, when you got the call, if she’d still been there. Olga had to go to Madrid for work. After dropping Olga off at the airport in Alexia’s cupra [though you had an identical one, you swore hers was better], you’d gone home, the prospect of complete freedom very appealing, not that you’d really do anything crazy. 

The soft jingle of your ringtone broke through the silence, a silence that felt full of opportunity, even if it was just cooking in the kitchen with the music blaring. Sometimes, as you lay awake in your bed, staring at the ceiling, you wondered what would have happened if you hadn’t answered the phone. It wouldn’t have changed anything. Jackie would still be dead. The car that sped through the crosswalk without looking would still have slammed into her.  

You answered the phone. Jackie was dead. Your world fell apart. There was nothing more to it. There was nothing you could do, no way to think yourself out of the pain. It was there, hot and searing. All for you to deal with, all by yourself. 

It was a weird form of karma, perhaps, that you were now just as alone as you’d left Jackie to be. 

—

It wasn’t entirely a conscious decision that brought you to the tattoo shop. One minute you were looking back through your texts with Jackie, and the next, you were in the chair, shirt pulled up as the buzz of the tattoo gun filled the room. 

It was a small black and white illustration of a lemon tree. The school where you’d met each other had a lemon tree in the back, next to the playground. The two of you would sit there together at recess and talk. As you got older, you still returned to the lemon tree, even once you were both much too old to be sitting next to a playground. 

Under the lemon tree had been the last place you’d seen her in person. You’d gone home to visit her for a few days, and you’d spent your last few hours under the lemon tree together, talking about everything and nothing. That had been months ago, now. 

Your calf injury had not only taken you out of the international break, but it had ruined your plans to see Jackie whilst you were back home. It had been a long time since you’d seen your best friend, and you were more than a little disappointed that you couldn’t. After several profuse apologies, Jackie had told you not to worry about it. She’d see you sometime soon, and she didn’t need to watch you play in person to be proud of you.

 ‘I’m always proud of you,’ she’d said. 

There were about 2 months until your 18th birthday, but it turned out that in Barcelona you didn’t need to be 18 to get a tattoo, you had to be 16. So, off to the tattoo shop you’d gone, with nothing more than Jackie’s last text repeating in your head over and over. You didn’t think about the consequences, didn’t really think about anything until it was done, until the tattoo artist was carefully laying the second skin over the raw patch on your upper arm. 

Lost in your head, you left the tattoo shop. The habit you had of not watching where you were going, instead staring at the ground under your feet as you walked, was something that had caused you trouble more than once. And now, it seemed it would again as you practically crashed into someone the minute the door shut behind you. 

“¡Oye, cuidado!” 

You stumbled backwards, eyes still fixed on the ground, opening your mouth to apologize before you froze. You knew that voice. Your head snapped up and, ironically, the first thing you spotted was ‘looks can be deceiving’ inked into your teammates neck as her tattooed arms flew into the air with exasperation. Her face turned from annoyed to surprised, and then she broke into a wide grin.“¿Pequeña?” 

“Hola, Mapi.” You replied quietly. “Sorry, I didn’t see you.” 

“No, no, it’s–...” Mapi trailed off, something on your face, something raw and painful catching her attention. She studied you for a moment, both of you blocking half the sidewalk as people grumbled and stalked past you. You waited for her to realize, her eyes flicking up to the sign above the door behind you. 

Mapi’s jaw dropped, her hand coming to grip your elbow and pull you over to sit at a nearby bench. “Did you get a tattoo?!” She hissed, surprise and concern etched deep into the lines of her forehead. 

She was downright floored. You were the team’s resident well behaved teen. Not since you’d moved in with Alexia had you stepped a toe out of line. Undertaking the extra film sessions and disgustingly high protein dinners with little complaint, you were practically a miniature version of your captain. 

And it wasn’t that everyone was opposed to tattoos or something, it was just that you were so young. You’d talked about getting a tattoo before but Alexia and Mapi had convinced you to wait until you were older. For you to break that promise, to go behind Alexia’s back while she was out of town… it was completely out of character. And it was for this reason that Mapi wasn’t upset. She was concerned. 

How you could have forgotten Mapi was still in Barcelona, seeing as though she wasn’t playing for Spain any longer, you weren’t sure. But that miscalculation had backfired greatly. Something in the very back of your head begged you to take the hand that was suddenly outstretched, trying to pull you out of the ocean you were drowning in. Mapi was right there, and she’d listen. Mapi always listened. You didn’t have to be alone anymore, but the thought of saying it out loud… that Jackie was gone and you were broken, you just couldn’t do it. Letting Mapi in would hurt too much, you decided. 

“Yes.” You answered shortly. 

The defender looked taken aback, her brow knitting together. She seemed to be at a loss for words for a moment, her concern for you doubling as she took in your appearance. You looked like you had barely slept in days, eyes red and puffy. It seemed impossible for you to sit still, your knee bouncing rapidly as your hands fidgeted with the sleeves of your sweater. Eyes anywhere but on her face, Mapi realized that whatever was wrong with you was serious. 

“Are you… what’s wrong, pequeña? What’s happened?” María inquired gently, her hands resting on your knee. You shifted away from the touch, your whole body suddenly seeming to tense. 

“Nothing. Nothing happened. I just wanted a tattoo.” You replied mechanically. 

“But… we talked about this. Me, you, and Ale. I thought you were going to wait–”

“Well, it isn’t up to you and Ale, it’s up to me.” You hated how hostile you were being whilst simultaneously having no idea how to behave any differently. Your body was in fight or flight, refusing point blank to admit to Mapi that you were very far from okay. 

To your chagrin, Mapi only seemed to soften further, the sympathy and concern on her face making your chest feel like it was on fire. “Nena, I don’t think–”

“I have to go, María. I have… I have an appointment. I’ll see you at training on Monday.” Abruptly, you stood, only just catching the way Mapi tried to reach out for you again. You didn’t listen as she tried to stop you, didn't look back once you turned around and speed walked away from her. 

You weren’t sure what you were doing, and maybe that was just what life would be like from now on. You weren’t sure. You just knew that verbalizing the grief and emotion you felt would make it unbearable. 

And behind you, still sitting bewildered on the bench, Mapi wasn’t sure what to do either. She could follow you home, insist you talk to her. That didn’t feel right, because you clearly wanted space. 

You’d been fine when she saw you at training last week, which made her think that the rest of your teammates wouldn’t know anything either. Mapi knew you loved your younger teammates, the ones much closer in age to you, but she also knew how careful you were about bothering people. No, you wouldn’t have called one of them for help. 

She’d definitely be calling Ingrid, but that was more for her own sake than yours. Ingrid wouldn’t have the answers, because she’d been gone, too. 

The most likely option of who would have more information was Alexia. Obviously, because you lived with her, you were close. But if Alexia knew something was wrong, she never would have left you behind without a word to Mapi to check on you. Likely, Alexia didn’t know anything either.  

And of course, María could call Alexia, but she knew her captain well enough to know that whatever overbearing reaction Alexia would have to try to figure out the problem and solve it would be suffocating to you. 

That left only one person.  

—

The noise of your rather melodramatic playlist must have drowned out the front door opening. You weren’t expecting anyone home today, so you froze when you heard footsteps beginning to ascend the stairs. Terrified, you grabbed the bat you kept under your bed and crept closer to the door, allowing the music to keep playing. 

Counting to three in your head, you grabbed the knob and twisted, flinging the door open and holding your bat up in the air at the ready. Olga jumped back, her hand raised as if to knock. 

“¡Joder!” 

“Jesus!” 

You both exclaimed simultaneously, Olga putting her hand over her heart and you dropping the bat to the ground. 

“What are you doing here? I thought you weren’t back until tomorrow?” You questioned. 

Olga had been looking at you in alarm, evidently still startled from the scare she’d just had. But as soon as you asked why she was home early, she seemed to gain control of herself, her body language softening as she stepped closer into your room. 

“Mapi called me.” The brunette said gently. Instinctually, you took a step back from her, trying to put space between you and the wrecking ball that was trying to break down the walls you’d so carefully crafted over the past few days. Olga didn’t move any closer, a small, sad smile gracing her lips. “Can I see your tattoo?” 

Her question caught you off guard enough that you nodded rather dumbly, rolling up the sleeve of your sweatshirt so that your bicep, and its new lemon tree, was exposed. 

Olga studied it for a moment, reaching out to grab your arm and have a closer look. “It’s pretty.” 

“Thanks.”

There was a beat of silence, both of you waiting for the other to address the elephant in the room. The brunette broke first, raking a hand through her loose hair. 

“Alexia is not going to be happy about this, pequeña.” Olga sighed, running her thumb over the pink tinged skin. 

You shrugged, pulling your arm from the older woman’s grasp. You didn’t care if Alexia wasn’t happy about it. In fact, that was the absolute last thing on your mind. 

“María told me that–”

“I don’t care what Mapi said.” You snapped. Olga simply raised her eyebrows at you. “I have a headache, Olga, I really don’t want to talk right now.” 

You turned, walking back over to your bed and sitting on the edge. Your posture was stiff, everything about your body language screaming to Olga that Mapi had been right, that something was really wrong. 

“But you know you can talk to me, yes?” Olga called after you. Freezing, the words sent a pang of anxiety through your chest. Another hand, the same ocean of grief. You couldn’t take it. Forcing a smile, you looked up at the brunette. 

“I’m good, I don’t have anything to talk about.” 

Olga sighed again, a sound you were beginning to hate. Her eyes bore into yours, and you knew she didn’t believe you for a second. “I can tell something is not okay. You are not okay. I came home to help you, pequeña.” 

Something between a scoff and a huff of air escaped you. “I am okay. I don’t need your help.” 

Olga shook her head, pulling the sleeves of the oversized Barcelona sweatshirt she was wearing down over her hands and crossing her arms. She looked so concerned, and it made your skin crawl. You couldn’t. You couldn’t. If you said it out loud, that made it true, and a part of you wasn’t prepared to accept that truth yet. 

A beat of silence, then another. Finally, Olga broke eye contact, resigned. 

“Well, if you change your mind, I’m here for you. And I won’t tell Alexia about that,” she nodded her head at your arm, “but you need to.” 

That, at least, you already knew. 

—

As luck would have it, no one’s paths really crossed the day Alexia came home. She’d stopped at her mother’s house for her Uncle’s birthday dinner, and by the time she got home, you were in bed, asleep. It had been oddly quiet on your end while she’d been gone, which she had chalked up to frustration with your injury. 

Alexia cracked open your door, finding you fast asleep in your bed before walking into her bedroom, body drooping with exhaustion. Captaincy duties had kept her in Madrid for an extra day, and she’d gone straight from the airport to her Mami’s house. She was more than ready to take a quick shower and collapse into bed before she inevitably had to get going again for the training session in the morning. It was just recovery, but still. 

As she entered her room, feelings of both love and sadness washed over her. The bed was still made, a soft pair of pajamas and a soothing face mask laid out on the bed for Alexia by her girlfriend. It made her smile, just briefly. Though Olga had gone to spend the night at own parent’s house, she’d thought to do something so simple and so kind for Alexia. 

Alexia stepped in closer to the bed, her lips quirking up into a small grin as she noticed the pajamas Olga had laid out were her favorite pair. Something on her nightstand caught her eye, though, a piece of paper with Olga’s familiar neat cursive marking it. 

Something is up with pequeña. I promised her I wouldn’t say anything, but go easy on her, and see if she’ll talk to you tomorrow after training. I love you. Olga. 

Alexia studied the note closely, feeling like she was missing something. You’d been fine when she left… and now you weren’t? Something was so wrong Olga felt the need to warn her yet still wouldn’t give Alexia a clue as to what was wrong because she’d promised you she wouldn’t? It was all odd, to say the least, but Alexia truly didn’t have the energy to try to figure it out at the moment. Instead, she set the note aside to be dealt with in the morning, and began her nighttime routine. 

Completely unaware that on just the other side of the wall, you were sobbing into your pillow, wishing for anything at all to make the pain stop, even if it was just for a second. 

—

You managed to keep it a secret until the next day, at training. Alexia had kept a very close eye on you all morning, which was odd, but you weren’t really paying attention to it. It was obvious you were just going through the motions, numbly and robotically hugging Alexia back when you wandered into the kitchen for breakfast, politely listening to Alexia’s stories from camp in the car. Still, her eyes were on you, and you didn’t think she was the only one watching. 

You’d almost made it through training, in fact, just pulling on a fresh shirt before you headed home when you heard Alexia’s sharp voice ring out through the locker room. 

“What is that?” She hissed. 

You jumped away from her like her words had scalded you, immediately tensing and crossing your arms over your chest. Your shirt was fully on, now, so the rest of your teammates were looking at you in confusion. Well, all of them except for Mapi. 

Alexia stomped closer, grabbing your arm and shoving your sleeve up once again. “You got a tattoo!” She gasped. “What were you thinking?! Who did it? Who would do this to a child? This is unacceptable, you are too young to be making a decision like this–” 

“Well, in Barcelona, actually, the age without parental consent for a tattoo is 16, and nena is 17.” Pina piped up from behind your captain. You shot her what you hoped was a grateful look, but you were pretty sure it just came across as terrified. Alexia turned slowly in Pina’s direction, glaring at the young forward for a moment. 

She was visibly fuming, nostrils flared, face red, vein in her forehead beginning to pop out. Angry Alexia was not a person anyone wanted to cross, and before she even had to speak a single word, Pina was throwing her bag over her shoulder, grabbing Patri’s hand, and all but dragging her out of the locker room. It would have been amusing if you weren’t so utterly terrified. 

You shrunk under Alexia’s gaze, and she tried to remember Olga’s note, telling her to go easy on you because something was wrong. All Alexia could think about, though, was when you’d promised her, sworn to her that you wouldn’t get a tattoo before you turned 18 and had properly considered what you wanted. It wasn’t so much the tattoo as it was the blatant breaking of a promise you’d made her. Well, it was the tattoo, too. 

Wordlessly, Alexia grabbed your wrist and pulled you out of the locker room and into the hall. You knew better than to try to pull away. She was going to yell, it was just a matter of location. 

“What were you thinking?” Alexia asked, crossing her arms over her chest and glaring at you. All she saw was a kid, a kid who had been left alone for a week and broken a promise she’d made. A kid who’d just permanently inked something into her skin without so much as running the idea by anyone who cared for her. 

And you… well, you were a shell of yourself, truly. Somewhere deep inside you, anger began to bubble up. 

“I was thinking that I am legally allowed to get a tattoo.” You stated plainly. 

“You promised me that–”

“Well, I changed my mind.” You interrupted. “I am an adult, I’m allowed to change my mind.” 

“You are not an adult! Are you insane? This is not a decision an adult would make, I do not understand how you can stand here in front of me without any guilt–…”

 You began to tune your captain out, because she’d gotten that one part wrong. You felt guilt. Guilt and regret and pain. She didn’t even know the half of it, and she hadn’t even tried to ask. 

Olga and Mapi, they’d known something was wrong, but you hadn’t wanted to talk to them. If Alexia had asked, you would have told her, but instead she was shouting, yelling at you like you’d done something wrong and it was all too much for you to take. Without thinking about the consequences, you shoved past Alexia and made a break for the door, breaking into a full sprint as you exited the building. You weren’t sure where you were going, just somewhere far. Far away from questions and feelings and disappointment. 

—

Somehow, you ended up sitting under a tree in a park near Alexia’s house. It was an unconscious decision. Sometimes you’d come here to facetime Jackie, and both of you could pretend you were in the same place, back home. Pretend you were under the familiar branches, sitting in the patchy shade the tree provided. If you closed your eyes, you could imagine the trunk behind you, with both of your initials carved into the bark. 

But this wasn’t a lemon tree. Jackie wasn’t next to you. She wasn’t even on the phone with you. Jackie was gone. And for the first time, you felt the gravity of what that meant hit you fully in the chest. Because it wasn’t fair. It wasn’t fucking fair. 

Jackie would never get to leave your hometown like you had. You wouldn’t grow up together. She wouldn’t come see you play at Camp Nou. She’d never become a vet like she wanted to. She’d never hug you again. 

And you… you’d never have a chance to tell her the truth. To grab her hand in yours and whisper the words you’d been terrified for years to say. You’d never know what it felt like to have her lips on yours, to hear her heartbeat in your ear as you fell asleep. You’d never know what she would have said when you told her that you’d been in love with her for years. That there wasn’t anyone else on earth for you. All you wanted was her. 

She’d never get to know that.

You’d never get to know if she felt the same way. 

The not knowing… that was almost as painful as her being gone. But not quite. Because you’d make a deal with the devil in a minute if you could, settle to just be her best friend if you could have her back. Having her in your life, in any capacity, would be better than the aching emptiness that currently suffocated you. 

You hadn’t known life without Jackie since you were very small. And secretly, you’d hoped you’d never know life without her. You dreamed of her moving to Barcelona, into an apartment the two of you shared. Bickering over the decor, and making sure she didn’t study too hard. 

With Jackie gone, she took that dream with her, and the reality you’d suddenly give anything to have back. 

Your best friend was never coming back. You didn’t care about football, or Alexia, or tattoos, or any of it. You just wanted Jackie back. 

It wasn’t entirely clear to you when the tears had started, but you didn’t think they’d be stopping anytime soon, and it was starting to get dark out. Crying your eyes out under a tree in a park as the sun set below the horizon didn’t seem like a phenomenal plan. And though it felt like a gargantuan task, you sat up and took a few deep breaths. 

It wasn’t lost on you that while your entire argument hinged on being an adult, you were not acting like one right now. You swiped at your face, trying to rid it of tears while you pulled your phone out of your pocket. You had 15 missed calls from Alexia, 10 from Olga, and a handful from a few of your other teammates. It was mostly annoying, honestly, until you opened your text chain with Alexia. She was panicked to begin, beside herself after her 6th test. 

Come home, now.

We need to talk about this.

Tell me where you are, I will come get you.

Nena, this is not funny. Answer the phone.

I know you are upset with me, but you need to answer. Now.

Just tell me that you are safe, please.

Nena?

You felt bad for worrying Alexia, and disappearing, but somewhere in between your sadness and your guilt,  anger had taken root. Replying to Alexia over text, as opposed to calling her, was fueled by your anger. And maybe a bit of fear. 

It was a short walk home, not nearly enough time for you to rid your face of all evidence of your emotional breakdown. Maybe, though, Alexia would stop and listen, if she saw the state you were in. 

Gripping the knob in your hand, you took a deep breath. You pushed the door open warily, and Alexia stopped her pacing to turn just in time to see you walk into the house. You were still a bit tearful, and still very angry, but Alexia didn’t care. She crossed the room in a few long strides, placing her hands on both your cheeks. 

“Are you okay?” She asked urgently, eyes flitting over you to check for injuries. Honestly. You’d been gone for two hours. 

“I’m fine.” You snapped, shoving her hands away from your face. That was all it took for Alexia’s face to drop into one of anger. Or maybe, the anger was just veiling her hurt. Either way, she was suddenly just as furious as you. 

“What were you thinking? Running off like that, not telling me where you went. You are irresponsible and thoughtless, and this is exactly why you are not mature enough to be making permanent decisions about your body, like getting a tattoo. I am so angry with you, nena-” 

“Leave. Me. Alone.” You scowled, shoving Alexia’s hands even further away from you. “I am an adult,”

“Adults do not storm off for several hours. Adults do not act like you are acting, and I-”

“You don’t know what you’re talking about! You don’t understand!” You knew you sounded like a teenage cliche, but you were past caring. 

“I do understand. You want to feel like an adult, so you make a stupid decision you think is mature-”

“It’s not stupid.” You snapped, anger growing by the second. The insult felt like a knife to the chest. Your lemon tree wasn’t stupid, your Jackie wasn’t stupid. 

“Well, it wasn’t smart! You are going to regret this, look back on it and wish you hadn’t gotten a ridiculous, idiotic tattoo for no reason other than-”

“Shut up!” You yelled. “Shut up Alexia! You have no idea why I got it, you haven’t even asked, you don’t get to yell at me when you haven’t even tried to understand.”

Olga had moved to hover in the doorway, motioning wildly for Alexia to calm down. Alexia’s eye twitched, and she took a few calming breaths. “Then tell me. Help me understand.” 

You didn’t even want to tell her anymore. You didn’t care if she understood or if she forgave you or stayed mad at you forever. You didn’t care about anything. All the fight seemed to drain out of your body, eyes fixing on your shoes as you finally told the truth. 

“My best friend from home… she died, last week, while you were away. I got it for her.” 

Alexia’s jaw dropped in horror, regret hitting her like a train. God, what had she done?

“I… oh, nena. I’m so sorry.” 

“Don’t. I don’t need your pity, I just need you to leave me alone.” With that, you turned on your heel and headed for your room, 

—

You wished you didn’t need Alexia. You wished you could take the space you’d asked for, wished you could hold onto your anger and make her hurt the way she’d hurt you. As it was, though, you couldn’t. You managed 20 minutes alone in your room, sobbing into your pillow before you pulled your phone out. It was too much, it was all too much, and you knew that despite the colossal fight you’d just had with her, Alexia would want to help you. And you needed help.

Your breaths were coming in short gasps, spots dotting your vision. You weren’t even sure if you were still crying, or just hyperventilating, or maybe dying, but you had tried and failed to calm yourself down. You threw your pride to the side, and sent the text. 

Help please.

It had barely been marked delivered for a second before you heard Alexia’s thundering steps heading for the stairs, pounding up them, and then she was throwing your door open. She took one look at you before turning and shouting down the stairs to her girlfriend. 

“Olga, get her medicine from the cabinet please!” 

And then her hands were pulling yours away from your face, her comforting voice breaking through the deep ringing in your ears. 

“You’re okay, you’re okay. You just need to breathe, slow down and let yourself breathe.” She encouraged, shifting so that she was sat next to you. Her hand began to slide up and down your back, and you gripped at her free hand in panic. 

“I-I can’t-” 

Your captain shushed you softly, using her free hand to turn your face in her direction. “You can, just slow down, everything is okay.” 

How could she say that? How could anything be okay? 

“It hurts,” you sobbed, burying your face in your hands and leaning into Alexia’s embrace. 

“I know.” Her voice sounded choked up, her hands shaking just barely as she pulled you in tighter. “I’m so sorry. I’m so, so sorry.” 

Your chest burned with a need for oxygen, but just in time you heard footsteps rushing into the room, and Olga was pulling your hands away from your face, your anxiety medication in hand. Everything seemed slightly blurry, slightly out of focus, as you took the small pill and a sip of water from the glass in Olga’s hand. You could hear both of them talking, but the words weren’t processing in your head, which was pounding with an incessant headache suddenly. Flopping back onto the bed, you shut your eyes tightly, pressing the heels of your hands to your face. 

It seemed as though the unintelligible voices quieted, Alexia probably realizing you weren’t quite there with her anymore. You felt her grip your hand in hers, and you focused on the rise and fall of your chest, picturing your lungs steadily filling and emptying over and over until it no longer felt like someone had your chest in a vice. Alexia’s voice began to filter through again, soft reassurances whispered in the very quiet room. 

“You’re okay, hermanita.” Alexia murmured. She slipped and called you that sometimes; little sister. You pretended to hate it, normally, but now you just squeezed her hand tighter. 

 “You can breathe, you are safe.” Her voice was comforting in a way you couldn’t explain, washing over you and reinforcing the similar mantras you were repeating to yourself. You were okay. You could breathe. You were safe. 

Somehow, you felt yourself getting drowsy. Probably a combination of the anxiety medicine, the intense emotional stress of the day, and the fact that you’d barely slept the last few days. Eyes falling shut, you felt the bed shift next to you. Soon, a blanket was being draped over your body, a gentle kiss pressed to your forehead. 

“Rest, nena. I’ll be downstairs if you need me.” 

You let yourself drift off, hoping somewhere in your head that you’d dream of Jackie. 

—

It felt like hours had passed when you woke, and the numbers on the clock agreed with that sentiment. Your body felt stiff, your head still ached, but you didn’t feel as though you were suffocating anymore. Gingerly, you rose from your bed. You had to face the music; better to get it over with now than wait and make the anticipation worse. Unsure of what awaited you, you cautiously crept downstairs, hearing the soft murmur of several different voices. They fell quiet as you shuffled down the hall and turned into the living room, Finding Alexia and Mapi sitting in the armchairs next to the window. 

Wordlessly, you moved over to the sofa, falling down onto it and waiting for the impending… well, you weren’t sure. Maybe they’d yell. More likely they’d have a billion questions. You’d almost prefer the yelling. 

“Feeling better?” Alexia inquired, shifting in her chair to face you instead of Mapi. Her fading blonde hair was in a lopsided ponytail, as if she’d thrown it up while pacing, something you’d seen her do more than once. Mapi, too, looked stressed, her fingers fidgeting and pulling at her cuticles in her lap. 

“Yeah.” You shrugged. In a very general, baseline way, you supposed you did feel better.

It was quiet for a moment longer, and you really couldn’t take it anymore. The silence was heavy, weighted, and it was grating on your nerves. “Just you two here? I expected half the team.” 

Mapi, bless her, cracked a smile, but Alexia remained solemn. 

“They wanted to come, but we decided it would be better just us for now.” Mapi explained. You were about to reply with another quip when Alexia seemed to burst, unable to contain her questions for a moment longer. 

“Nena, why didn’t you tell me about your friend? Why didn’t you tell anyone about it?” 

You shrugged. “You were all busy with your national teams. I didn’t want to bother you, and you were all far away. I dealt with it myself, it’s fine.”

“It is not fine. You lost someone important to you, and you did not tell me. You did not tell Olga, you did not tell Mapi when you saw her. You were all alone dealing with this.” Alexia’s voice seemed to waver and you flinched. This was why you hadn’t said anything. You didn’t want to burden anyone else with your issue. 

‘Did you not think we’d care? I would have come home in an instant if you’d called–”

“I know you would’ve. I didn’t want you to.” You cut in, trying to assuage Alexia’s guilt, but somehow only making it worse. 

“But why?” 

“I just needed to… process. I need to figure it out, and I didn’t want to talk about it.” 

Alexia still looked bewildered, but Mapi was nodding sympathetically. 

“That’s okay. I know Ale is doing a really bad job of showing it but we aren’t mad at you. We are just worried, we just want to help.” 

You nodded mechanically, trying to swallow the lump in your throat. How you weren’t cried out to the point of dehydration, you weren’t sure. 

Alexia cleared her throat. “I.. I’m just so sorry. This was Jackie, yes? Your best friend?” 

Best friend. Yes, she was. She’d never be more than that. You’d lost the person you loved and your best friend in one fell swoop, and the agony of that reminder didn’t fail to bring tears to your eyes again. wordlessly, you nodded, resting your elbows on your knees and putting your face in your hands. 

You felt both Alexia and Mapi move closer, squeezing onto the sofa on either side of you, but the comfort suddenly felt suffocating. 

“Please, guys, just leave me alone. I just need a minute and I’ll get it together.” You mumbled, trying to stand and make a break for it. Two sets of hands pulled you back down, though. 

“No. You are crying, I am not going to leave you alone. I am going to sit right here. We can talk or we can just sit, but I am here for you, okay? You do not have to deal with this alone.” Alexia promised, her voice thick with emotion. Mapi’s hand rested on your back, hand running soothing circles over your shirt. 

It was at this moment that you knew you couldn’t keep it in any longer. try as you might, Alexia and Mapi weren’t leaving you to deal with this on your own, weren’t letting you deal with this on your own. You’d never been able to tell Jackie your true feelings. But they had to be shared, had to exist outloud or you were sure the love you had for her would fade in time, and you never wanted that to happen. 

“I loved her.” You admitted quietly. 

“I know. She was your best friend–” Mapi soothed, squeezing your knee with her free hand. 

You interrupted her, pulling your hands from your face and looking between your teammates with bloodshot eyes. “No. I.. I loved her.” 

Mapi and Alexia froze almost simultaneously, matching shocked looks etched into their faces. Then, Alexia was wrapping her arms so tight around you that it hurt, pulling you into her. 

“Oh, nena.” She whispered. 

You were crying again before you could even try to stop it. 

“I never got to tell her. She never knew. And now she’s gone, and she’ll never know.” 

It was too much pain for one person to carry, more than both Alexia and María knew they’d be able to handle well. And you were so young, and so shattered. They didn’t have the right words to fix this, at least they didn’t think they did. All they could do was try. 

“She knows now. She knows how much you love her now.” María said quietly. 

Your bottom lip quivered as you looked at her, so much hope in your eyes that Mapi almost cried herself. 

“Do you think so?” Maybe you were desperate to believe anything that would make you feel better, at this point. But you didn’t really care. 

“She knows.” Alexia affirmed. 

Nodding shakily, you fixed your gaze on the fluffy white carpet underneath you. “I don’t know how to do any of this without her. I don’t want to.” 

Your teammates sighed, exchanging a glance as they shifted closer to you. 

“I don’t know how to help you.” Alexia admitted. “But we’re going to figure it out together, sí? Whatever you need, however you need to process this. We’re here. You aren’t alone, pequeña.” 

Mapi hummed her agreement, and you seemed to relax for the first time all day. Perhaps this whole time, that was all you needed to hear. 

That even if no one could make it better with a snap of their fingers, you weren’t alone. 

You settled back onto the couch, squished in between your two teammates, somehow knowing that fact, even if they hadn’t said it. 

Nothing was fixed, your very soul still hurt. But you weren’t alone. 

—

i did not proofread and i dont love the ending but here we are! i hope you enjoy <3

[nipuni]

A little life update!

I'm back from our latest trip and leaving again in a couple of days but! I can finally say we are officially moving! 😄

We've been looking for houses travelling back and forth from Galicia weekly these last few months. It was an ordeal in many ways, a logistical and bureaucratic nightmare honestly, we found and lost many houses and spent so much money, time and braincells in the process. But in the end we found the most amazing house so it was worth it!! In our favorite city, beautiful antique furniture, several floors, extra rooms for hobbies, enclosed balcony, a fireplace, a whole garden with a lemon tree!! and for the same rent price than what we are paying for our small apartment in Madrid now lmao, big city prices are nonsensical 😭

We met the neighbors over the garden fence one morning and they are so lovely, they have apple trees and offered some to us and we met their dog too and they told us the story of the house and the people who have lived in it and places and customs of the town and offered to take us to the farmers markets to teach us about the best choices 🥺

We also met our landlady's family and they are so nice and friendly too. They helped us out with furniture, all their children and husband helped too and we offered to invite them all for dinner sometime to thank them when we are settled and they said they would invite us instead because they are six and we are two lmao Ahhh I just can't believe this is all real, it feels like a dream.

The weather is also colder and way rainier and we can finally enjoy summer like the earth intended, I'm no longer a summer hater!! We have wildflowers and mushrooms and magpies in our garden!! and chestnuts!! and an attic!! and a stone grill!! and a big bright kitchen aaaaa I can't stop gushing about everything

Nicolas is so happy too, he has been teaching himself everything about gardening and house keeping and the animals and plant species of the area. We already told all our friends and family to plan their trips to visit us since now we can host them more comfortably and for longer stays!!

I can't wait to be done with the move and start our new town life close to the sea in a beautiful house with friendly people and peace and quiet what the hell!! I never thought I could ever have something like this in my life I'm so serious 😭

[wileys-russo]

the summer tenant (1) II j.hermoso

its missing jenni hours, little mini series incoming the summer tenant (1) II j.hermoso

"sí sí sí i am forever in your debt león. happy?" you laughed, phone wedged between your ear and shoulder as you weighed your carry on, breathing a sigh of relief when it didn't breach the limit for your flight.

"i will be happy when you finally come home!" your best friend whined making you roll your eyes. "my ass is on its way maría, and tu culo better pick me up later!" you warned, muting her for a moment as you stepped up to the front desk and gave your details, boarding pass printed and handed over.

"no i am not thanking you, i was getting my boarding pass. my stuff is all accounted for sí? it arrived safely?" you frowned in worry, this entire process having been anything but smooth.

"sí amiga, just like i told you yesterday and every other day you've asked everything is in boxes ready to be unpacked once you move, and there is just a few things and files and boxes still in storage at your old place in the garage." mapi promised as you exhaled, hovering by the security check knowing you'd need to hang up before going through, promising mapi to call her the moment you landed before ending the call.

you'd grown up in zaragoza, a few houses down from the dirty blonde you'd been practically attached to like a siamese twin almost your whole life. as you got older you'd moved to madrid to go to university, and then to barcelona for better career opportunities once you graduated.

though for the last three years you'd been living in portugal, a dream job when it arose far too tempting to pass as much as it hurt you to move away from your life, friends and family all still scattered around spain.

you of course returned home to visit but once you'd fallen in love the visits had been few and far between, your life becoming split in two as you had anchors tying you down in either country, admittedly maybe allowing the one in portugal a little too much influence.

which is why it hurt so much when that anchor was suddenly cut loose, almost drowning you in the aftermath of what you'd describe as your first real heartbreak.

so licking your wounds you found yourself with a choice, to stay and soldier through the tattered remains of your life in portugal or retreat back to spain with your tail between your legs and into the arms of the rest of your support circle.

the choice was one you probably made a little too fast once your best friend sweet talked the right people and popped up on her weekend off with a job offer and a plan, more than ready to drag you back home.

it hadn't been the easiest of processes, you'd given your two weeks in at your job which turned into four and then into six so you could adequately train your replacement and smoothly handover your client list.

right after the breakup mapi had convinced you to let her rent out your old place in barcelona for some extra income while you weren't sure how long you'd still be in portugal, your now ex quite the well respected lawyer meant you'd come off with much less than you deserved in assets after the split.

you were crashing with a coworker and slowly shipping your belongings home to meet you whenever you could finally leave all this mess behind you.

though really your old place was too large for just you and though you were returning home you wanted a fresh start which meant a new place, mapi offering for you to stay with her while you searched for the right one.

between her and her girlfriend they technically had an apartment each in the same building, though they spent majority of their time in ingrids which was set up best, mapi's used more as a storage locker which is why she was more than happy to let you stay there temporarily.

and with all sorts of tourists flocking to the warm beaches of barcelona for the summer it made sense that you wring out a little extra money from your old place before putting it on the market.

so now finally free from all that tied you to portugal bar a few friendships you suspected may eventually die out with the distance, and almost all of your belongings safely back in spain, it was time for you to join them.

"estás bromeando." you snickered in disbelief as you exited the terminal, spotting the sign and balloons right away and praying they weren't for you. but of course knowing your family, no such luck.

"i am suddenly wishing i lied about which flight i took." you called out with a shake of your head, a cheeky grin and a blur of tattoos and tan skin darting in front of you before a body was slamming you nearly to the ground.

"hola amiga." you exhaled happily, squeezing the footballer just as tightly as you gave her girlfriend a wave who was hanging back with a smile. "mejor amiga." mapi corrected, pulling away and sloppily kissing your cheek making you grimace and push her away.

"you drove all the way here to pick me up? i told you i could come see you on the weekend!" you laughed at your parents, knowing it was almost a four hour journey from your childhood home where they still lived to the airport they were stood in now.

"it has been many years we have prayed for this day hija, let us enjoy it." your mami smiled warmly as you hugged them both next, exhaling happily at the rapid spanish which floated around the air.

you greeted ingrid next, having met the girl many times despite no longer living here, often teasing your best friend that should they break up you'd actually take ingrids side since she was so lovely, but really you adored seeing her so loved up and well treated by the norweigan.

"welcome home from prison? maría!" you groaned, the defender hiding behind her girlfriend making both yours and ingrids eyes roll. "it was his idea!" her finger reached around and pointed to your papi who shrugged with a smile that said it all.

~

"and you told her i was coming to grab some things?" you clarified with mapi who hummed in confirmation. the footballer had been doing the majority of the communication with your tenant in your old place considering until now you'd been in another country and she had set the whole thing up anyway.

you'd tried to offer her some money for all of her help which all that earned you was a firm punch to the arm and a warning not to be stupid, reminding you that family always helps family and doesn't expect anything in return.

"sí sí she said she wouldn't be home anyway, and you are only needing to access the garage so you will not be entering the house." mapi assured as you nodded, telling her to text you what she wanted you to grab from the market on your way back before ending the call.

stupidly mislabeling a few boxes had meant you were missing a large amount of clothing, and though both ingrid and mapi assured you were free to wear anything of theirs you already felt like you were asking too much of them staying with them anyway.

besides a lot of your more work appropriate clothes were what was missing and due to start this new role in a few days time and anything but a patient woman you were quite eager to get your ducks in a line.

"oh come on!" you grunted, having twisted the key in the garage door but struggling to pull it open, something that had pained you for years. a waterfall of curse words fell from your lips as your frustration grew and you strained to tug it open, hope fasting fading.

"you know robbers do not usually make so much noise?" you jumped at a voice behind you, dropping the door and spinning around with a startled expression.

"lo siento. i am not a robber, i am-" you tried to explain but the taller girl waved off your words. "the owner, sí? i spoke to mapi this morning." she smiled charmingly, pearly white teeth bared in amusement.

"i am jenni, your tenant." she added on with a grin holding out a heavily tattooed hand as you nodded in understanding and properly introduced yourself. "trouble with the door? there is a trick." she held up a finger and nodding for you to move aside.

you frowned curiously but did as she asked, watching as she twisted the key and popped her shoulder into the door, your eyebrows shooting up nearly as fast as the door was opened. "fácil!" she winked and gestured inside.

"i lived here for nearly five years and-" you mumbled with an annoyed huff. "-and i live here for a few weeks and know all the tricks." jenni laughed, hovering just outside as you squatted down and began to move through boxes.

"something like that." you sent her a smile over your shoulder. "i promise i will get everything out soon, my car is still in portugal and its the last thing to come back and-" you stopped yourself realizing a complete stranger would be the last person to care.

"and i do not need to be wasting more of your time, lo siento." you shook your head, finding the box you needed and tugging it up and out. "no need to apologise. you are from barcelona?" jenni asked curiously as you shook your head.

"zaragoza, but i have been living in portugal for the last few years." you answered with a polite smile. "mm then how did you end up with a house in barcelona?" jenni questioned, lips curled upward and eyes scanning you up and down.

"my mami taught me not to talk to strangers." you teased making her laugh. "so did mine but here i am letting one into my garage." jenni pointed out as you now laughed. "my garage, technically." you shrugged, noticing a large motorcycle in the corner of the garage.

"pulling the landlord card querida? vale vale. well i have paperwork we both signed though that says for another four and a half months it is my garage." jenni reminded with a grin to which you couldn't argue.

"do you ride?" you asked nodding curiously toward the bike. "what happened to not talking to strangers? i cannot ask how you ended up in barcelona but you can ask me about my bike?" jenni gasped mockingly as you rolled your eyes.

"well you just answered my question anyway." you smiled picking up the box of clothes and moving back outside as jenni effortlessly reached up and grabbed the roller door to bring it back down, something you needed a ladder for which was oddly attractive.

jenni herself was quite attractive, the way her bright eyes followed you and rose pink links curved into an alluring smile, not to mention each of her long limbs covered in even more tattoos than mapi as she was wearing only a pair of shorts and a plain white oversized shirt.

you opened your mouth to speak but were cut off by a second stranger who came storming out of the house, flipping the girl in front of you off and practically diving into a car speeding away making you frown as the other girl in front of you rolled her eyes.

"friend of yours?" you asked with a raised eyebrow as jenni shrugged. "something like that. would you like to come in for a drink?" the abruptness of her question catching you off guard as you opened and closed your mouth.

"i don't think-" you started, placing down the box as jenni cut you off. "you know if you have a drink with me, i will not be a stranger anymore. didn't your mami also teach you about manners and hospitality?" jenni challenged making you scoff but smile.

"my plans for the evening just ditched me, i already started dinner. it is rude to make someone eat and drink alone you know!" jenni tutted, stepping forward and picking up the box for you before you could protest.

"vamos, i promise i am a good cook and an even better host."

~

and as you woke up that next morning in a bedroom both familiar and unfamiliar, you knew her words to be true.

you could smell coffee as you rubbed your eyes and sat up, you heard the door open and tugged the covers up to hide your naked chest, jenni strolling in with a steaming mug.

"how did you know?" you smiled, always starting your day with coffee as the taller girl gave you an add look. "how did i know i wanted coffee?" she chuckled taking a sip as your cheeks flushed with embarrassment at your assumption.

"what time is it?" you asked with a stretch, bending down and snaking your shirt from the floor, slipping it over your head. "eleven, you really slept in." jenni hummed, leaning against the doorframe as bright green eyes drunk you in.

"sorry." you chuckled, completely missing the slightly awkward silence in the air as jenni stepped forward. "your box of stuff is by the door, get dressed and you should go." the girl shrugged, turning on heel and heading out of the room as your mouth opened in shock.

none the less you hurried to collect your clothes, pulling them on and following after her.

"you know landlords should not really sleep with tenants." jenni tutted with a smirk, pulling herself up and onto the counter as you forced your eyes not to roam her half naked body, flashes of last night where it was pressed against you flickering through your mind.

you scoffed and crossed your arms, opening your mouth to let her have it but she spoke first. "whats wrong bebé? not the normal coffee and breakfast waiting for you afterwards that you are used to? i am not that type of girl." jenni chuckled sipping from her mug.

"but last night we talked about so many things and-" "had sex? sí, and we both got something out of that no? now you should really go, technically a landlord cannot be here without the tenants permission." jenni smirked as you could only scoff.

not gracing her with another word you turned on heel and headed for the front door, hearing her footsteps pad after you as you made a swift exit. you paused as you heard a sharp whistle, slowly turning around.

"did you just whistle at me like a dog?" you asked in disbelief crossing your arms and making her chuckle where she leaned against the door. "you forgot your box." she nodded downward at her feet as you stiffened, swallowing your pride and making your way back toward her.

you glared at her as she simply smiled charmingly, sipping at her coffee as you picked up the box and turned again, storming down the path.

though a second wind brewing as you reached the end you shook your head, spinning to give her a piece of your mind but it was too late, the front door already clicking closed as you heard the turn of the lock.

"puta."

[lucy90712]

Gavi, Pedri, Jude, Joao and Balde and their love languages?

Gavi: 

- His language is physical touch 

- He is pretty much attached to you at the hip when you are around as there's nothing he loves more than being close to you and getting to hold you 

- You aren't the biggest fan of pda as you know that people will see and takes pictures and then they'll be all over social media but Pablo will still hold your hand wherever you go he still respects your boundaries and won't kiss you but he will always have hold of your hand so that he can still feel close to you although he always says it's to keep you safe 

- When you aren't out in public and are just with family or friends Pablo doesn't hold back on showing you affection he will have his arms around your waist and leave kisses on your neck, he'll even have you sit on his lap with the excuse that he just making more room for other people to sit but really he just wants you close

- His favourite thing in the world is to cuddle with you after a long day getting to come home and cuddle with you on the sofa makes him feel so much better or in the morning when he doesn't have training getting to just pull you into his arms and snuggle until you absolutely have to get up 

- Pablo isn't the best at expressing his love for you in words and he's not a romantic as some guys like he can't just tell you how much he loves you as he can't ever find the right words to describe his feelings so instead he does it by showing you physical affection 

- In all your past relationships you've never had such an affectionate boyfriend all your past boyfriends have either just told you they loved you or got you things like flowers thinking that is enough but now that you've been with Pablo you never want to go back as the way he shows that he loves you makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside 

Pedri: 

- His love language is quality time 

- He has grown up being very close with his family and he still likes to have them around and spend time with them and now he acts the same way with you he loves you so he wants to spend time with you and enjoy your company 

- From the start of your relationship Pedri has always made sure that he makes time to spend with you even when you'd only been together for a few months he'd make sure he saw you at least twice a week even when he had a busy schedule with games 

- Even now that you live together Pedri makes sure that you spend quality time together you always have a date night once a week although it can't always be the same day and sometimes he's too exhausted to do much more than have a movie night on the sofa but he still makes sure to enjoy the time he has alone with you 

- Pedri loves nothing more than to be around you you are his favourite person to be around because as much as he loves his family sometimes they annoy him so any free time he has is spent with you even if you are busy working at home he'll happily just sit and keep you company 

- Getting to spend quality time with you is his favourite part of the day it always makes him feel better if he's had a hard day or even just a regular day you always make him smile even if you aren't trying to he could be in the middle of nowhere but as long as he's with you he'd be fine 

- The boys make fun of him sometimes as they think he's gone soft and that he's too clingy but really it's not that he just loves you and spending time with you is his way of showing it besides their opinion doesn't matter as he knows you love being able to spend so much time with him despite his busy schedule 

Jude: 

- Jude's love language is gift giving 

- With Jude having so many matches and with you living back in England while he's Madrid your time together is limited even when you go to visit him he's not always home and it's not often that he gets to come back to England so to make up for that he likes to get you gifts to make you know how much he loves you 

- Every place he goes he always finds something to give you so you have a collection of little gifts and trinkets from all the places he's been even if he was only there for a day or two it's become something you use to remind yourself that Jude is always thinking about you even when he can't be by your side 

- When you do get to be together he still gets you gifts he likes to spoil you he takes you out for nice dinners and fun dates where he pays for everything even if you offer to pay or tell him not to he just wants to treat you  

- He always goes all out for big occasions like your birthday and your anniversary he makes enough money to treat you so he does he knows you'll never buy anything nice for yourself so he does it for you in fact he's the only reason you got a new phone that actually functions 

- It's not just expensive things he buys for you whether you are together or not he gets you flowers every week the bouquet always looks different too it's not like he just sends you roses every week he gets you the prettiest bunch he can find and they always come with a lovely note from him telling you how much he misses you 

- You always think that once you actually move in with Jude whenever that might be that the content little gifts will stop but it most definitely won't he truly enjoys getting you flowers and little things from all the places he goes to so that definitely won't stop and of course he has to treat you on special occasions so nothing will change nothing at all

Joao: 

- His love language is words of affirmation 

- Joao has always had a way with words although he didn't realise it until he met you and somehow the words just always flow from his mouth whenever you need some reassurance or a pick me up he always knows exactly what to say

- For every birthday and anniversary he always writes you a card filled with the most beautiful words that's always make you tear up as it makes you realise just how much Joao love and cares about you even when you are fighting or when you're apart he still loves you a lot

- When he was with his ex it destroyed him and his confidence but since he found you he's never felt better and he wants you to feel that too so he uses his way with words to make sure that you can feel his he feels now and not his he felt with his ex 

- Joao is always there to give you a pep talk when you have a big presentation at work like you do for him before big matches although he's definitely better at hyping you up that you are but that's part of his charm

- You never have to feel insecure about anything when Joao is around as whenever you start to doubt yourself or out yourself down he is right there to tell you all the things he loves about you and compliment everything about you until you are smiling and admitting that you are beautiful and really meaning it 

- Joao isn't the romantic type he's not the best at planning dates or doing big gestures but he makes up for that with the way he makes you feel so loved and appreciated because he tells you that all day everyday 

Balde: 

- Alejandro's love language is acts of service 

- Ale loves to be able to do things for you he doesn't get to be with you as much as he wants to be as you both have busy schedules we whenever he gets the chance he loves to do little things for you to make your life easier 

- He likes to make your life easier by doing things like picking up groceries on his way back from training for you so that you don't have to go after classes but he also does little things to show that he loves you like if he stays over with you he'll get up before you and make you breakfast and leave a little note for you to read when you wake up 

- His love for helping you is definitely useful as if you ask him to do anything he'll do it no questions asked like when you ask him to read your essays before you hand them in he doesn't understand a thing but he does it anyway and he'll happily quiz you before your exams making sure to reward you with sweets he bought over every time you get something right 

- He lives to make you happy and seeing the way your face lights up when you realise what he's done for you makes his heart feel full sometimes he doesn't get to see your face but he loves seeing the text you send him when you realise he's sent you food to help your cramming session and he loves the kiss he gets when you next see each other even more 

- Ale likes other forms of showing his love for you he likes to cuddle with you as you like nothing more than to cuddle but he finds it easiest to show his love for you by doing things for you he's always been a practical person and someone who works better when doing so he shows his love in that way too 

- You always appreciate everything he does for you and your try and do the same for him as much as possible which he loves seeing your face as you think about all the ways you can replay him when he does something like buys you groceries or helps you study

[saturnville]

what happens in madrid… [1/2]

pairing: jude bellingham x black oc (naomi sinclair) summary: what happens in madrid… warnings: none. tags: @emjayewrites @cocobutterqwueen @neeville @neewrites @cosmic-parker + anyone else who likes football fics? let me know if you want to be added! an: when I tell you this took me forever…I truly hope you like my delusions put into a fic 🩵 and this gif!!!

part two: …stays in madrid

“Let me take you out. Make your trip one to remember.”

Naomi considered herself a smart woman. University-educated with street smarts that were more profound than a person would assume for her age. She intentionally thought through every scenario; understanding that everything she said, thought, and did came with a consequence.

She didn’t know what it would take to see a six-foot man with caramel skin and chocolate brown eyes approaching her at a local restaurant and boldly attempting to woo her, to let go of all her inhibitions and throw her common sense out the window. She knew him, yes, but she didn’t know him. Hell, he could kill her within the next five minutes.

Did it phase her? No. For once, she let her curiosity outweigh her logical mind and fell victim to his gleaming smile and charming nature. She was on vacation, she tried to reason the best she could. On vacation and being pursued by a fine young man who insisted she have a good time during her stay. So, she pushed her hair over her shoulder and gave him a smile that raised his eyebrows in interest. “Pick me up from here tomorrow.”

-

“Well aren’t you beautiful,” he complimented as she walked toward his vehicle, dark and brooding, much unlike the man he’d presented himself as. His comment had her lips curling upward to a smile. She thanked him, accepted the kiss on her cheek, and tried not to fold when he guided her to the passenger’s seat.

“Thank you,” Naomi replied after some time. “You are dually handsome, sir.” And that was a fact. She appreciated his subtle approach to fashion. Everything he wore was high-end, that was evident, but it wasn’t flashy. His aura and confidence spoke for him. He wore the black button-down and matching short set with an easy confidence. The dark sunglasses over his eyes completed the look, only emphasizing her thoughts.

Jude smiled and proceeded to drive out of the hotel lot. They engaged in small conversation, picking up from where they left off the previous night. They were different but had a lot in common. She, too, was the oldest of two, save she had a sister rather than a brother. Unlike her, her sister didn’t take an interest in football, rather participated in cheerleading and went to university on a cheer scholarship.

“That’s amazing,” Jude commented genuinely. “She graduated right?”

Naomi shook her head. “Not yet; she’s still got time. She’s a first-year, but she’s already planning her graduation trip. She wants to go to England.” His ears perked up and a sly smile crept on his lips. She rolled her eyes playfully but accepted his proposal to share places she should visit whenever her sister went to England.

“You know,” Jude spoke minutes later as he guided her out of the vehicle. She took his extended hand and thanked him, straightening her thigh-length skirt. “I don’t hear Spain as a place for solo travel often. What prompted that?”

Her response was delayed by her infatuation with the sights above her. They were outside of a museum. Not just any museum, but the National Archaeological Museum. She was inwardly awed. He took note of her love for history and art and took her to the museum. She could kiss him right then and there.

“Glad you took my advice and wore comfortable shoes.” They both glanced at her New Balance sneakers that complimented her neutral-toned outfit. She wore a gray cropped top, knee-length distressed shorts, and a white fitted cap to match. “We’ll be out for a while. I know a good lunch place not too far away if you want to go later.”

Naomi smiled. “Looking forward to it.”

-

“Oh, it’s so beautiful!’ Naomi refrained from touching the meticulously handcrafted bust in front of her. Her eyes gleamed with wonder and adoration. She adored museums. They were where art and history kissed and refused to gasp for air. There was nothing like it.

From behind her, Jude nodded slowly, not paying much attention to the busts, but rather her child-like excitement and sun-like glow. He could have cursed himself for doing all of this for a woman he’d met less than 36 hours before, but the feeling deep within him outweighed the logic his brain tried to present him with.

A pretty woman whom he just happened to speak to at dinner had agreed to let him take her around Madrid for vacation. Just as he did, she’d taken such a liking to him that she agreed to spend time with him until she left ten days later. He had ten days to be in her presence and he’d been damned if he let his mind ruin it.

“Yeah,” Jude spoke up after some time, his eyes following her. “Very beautiful.”

-

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naomisinclair such a beautiful city

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adyajalyn girl who took that picture and who’s arm is that

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adyajalyn you go out of the country once and start befriending strangers like a dumbass

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-

“So, do you plan on returning to Madrid in the future?” Jude asked as they walked in a local park, hand in hand. Naomi tilted her head to the sky and swung their hands together. “Or was this a one-time trip?”

“I’ll be back. Especially if I have a reason to return.” She turned her head to meet his eyes, which were already awaiting hers. She saw something within them--excitement, interest, and desire. It made her stomach clench and her face grow warm. “So, hopefully, I will.”

The wheels began to turn in his mind. She’d be gone in ten days. He’d go on break in fourteen days. Would he be insane to try and get to know a woman who was nowhere near Madrid? Maybe. But, who doesn't like a little crazy?

After some time, Jude spoke up, “I’d like to think you will.”

Her eyes twinkled. She said nothing after that but the step she took closer to his body said more words than her mouth could and he accepted it gratefully.

-

“You can come in if you’d like,” Naomi said shyly as they stood outside the door of her hotel. Her fingers fondled her braids as she awaited his response.

Jude’s lips spread in a content smile as he nodded. “I appreciate that. Give me some time to shower and I’ll be back.”

Naomi grinned like a kid in the candy shop. They exchanged their goodbyes and she was left to freshen up and keep her mind occupied as she waited for his arrival.

Shortly after her shower, she got a phone call from Adya, whose face was filled with interest as she immediately asked, “Who is he?”

Naomi chuckled, “Well hello to you, too. And to answer your question, he’s a nice guy I befriended at dinner one day. Just showing me around the city. And before you call me a dumbass, yes I know it was dangerous.”

“As long as you know,” Adya shrugged. She then smiled softly. “Is he treating you nicely at least? Not a total creep?”

Naomi nodded. Jude was more than nice. He was incredibly kind and attentive. The thought of her leaving the following week drove her mad but she tried her best not to ponder on it too much. She’d enjoy the present moment.

“He’s a nice guy. Sucks that I’ll leave, but that’s why I’m just basking in the moment.”

Adya hummed. “If you’d like to make it work, it could be possible. Would take a lot of effort, but it could work if you both wanted it to. I think you might have to build a friendship first, though.” That drew a small laugh from Naomi who agreed wholeheartedly.

Just as she was peeped to respond, his name dropped down from a banner.

Jude

— Hey, pretty girl. I’m outside.

Adya, not blind to Naomi’s sudden grin, hollered and said, “Girl, go talk to that man and call me in the morning.”

“Bye Ady!”

Naomi tossed her phone on the bed and kept off the mattress. She patted her braids, soothed her sweatshirt, wriggled her manicured toes, and strode toward the door, opening it wide.

Jude stood on the other side, a smile on his face as he held up a dark bag. “I come bearing gifts.” Naomi moved out his way and allowed his entry. “This is a nice room.”

“Thank you. The booking company gave me hell so they upgraded me to a suite.” Naomi pointed to his bag and tilted her head to the side. “What do you have there?” She sat on the bed and he joined her.

“Heard through the grapevine you like popcorn, chocolate, and good movies.” Out of the bag came varieties of chocolate, a large bag of popcorn, and his laptop, fully equipped with any streaming service of her choice. “Figured we would watch one or two together.”

Naomi grinned like an idiot for the hundredth time that day. He was so considerate it almost hurt. Without much thought, she said, “I could kiss you right now.”

The way Jude’s eyes widened made her heart quicken but the feeling of his lips on hers shortly after caused it to nearly burst in her chest.

He was such a good kisser, she noted, appreciating how he took control yet was very gentle with her. His hands didn’t roam below her waist and he didn’t try to force his tongue down her throat. It was the perfect blend between respectful and polite and grown and sexy. Just as she liked it.

“I like you,” he whispered some time after they pulled away. Naomi’s eyes softened at his confession. She noted how he tried to catch his breath, how his cheeks were rosy from his body temperature rising, how his lips were slightly swollen and smeared with her lip gloss. He was so beautiful.

“Jude…”

He didn’t let her finish. “I like you and it’s crazy because it’s been less than 48 hours but Naomi, there’s just something about you.” Swoon. “You’ll go back home and I’ll be here, but I want to see what my life could look like with you in it. Give you a reason to come back.”

Naomi laughed lightly. Not because anything he said was funny, but because of the insanity of it all. She’d fallen head first for a man she’d known for two days and blushed at every word he said like his sentences were crafted by Shakespeare.

“I like you too,” she admitted. “And I feel crazy saying that because we’re strangers.”

Jude’s eyebrows raised as he nodded. That was the unfortunate fact, but, “We’ve got a few more days to become more than strangers.”

And that they did.

-

“Jude!” Naomi squealed as he tapped her shoulder, causing her to fall in the pool. She didn’t get the opportunity to wipe the water from her eyes before Jude jumped in beside her. She squealed loudly then giggled when he scooped her into his arms.

“That wasn’t nice,” she said, pouting playfully. She wrapped her arms around his neck. Her manicured fingers combed through the thick curls on his head, an action that made his eyes flutter. “I’m gonna get you back.”

“Is that so?” he asked, fingers caressing her thighs that were locked around his waist. Naomi nodded, eyes dropping to his lips. “Gonna have to get me first.”

Naomi, as flirtatious as ever, only has to bat her eyelashes a few times and brush her lips against his for him to crumble immediately. The perfect way to get him distracted enough to wriggle herself from his grip and dunk his head into the water.

“Oof!”

Her laugh was loud and boisterous, but he enjoyed hearing it all the same. Jude wiped his eyes when he came up from the water and gave her a look. Naomi giggled as she tried to back away, but her movement was restricted by the water.

Once again, she was scooped into his arms. “You play dirty,” he said. “I like it.”

Naomi smiled. The feelings she felt with him were unlike anything she’d ever experienced before. Her face always hurt from smiling, she felt giddy whenever he arrived at her door or called her phone. How would she possibly be able to deal with the distance?

-

“I’ve got to go, Jude, or I’ll miss my flight,” Naomi whispered, tugging her hand out of his grasp gently. “I’ve got to go.”

The dreaded day had arrived. Naomi had to go back home and they’d be without each other (physically) until their schedules aligned again. It was something neither of them wanted to think of but like always, time brought reality back to them.

“I don’t want you to go,” the footballer admitted, swinging their hands back and forth. Naomi smiled sadly, using her free hand to caress his face.

“I don’t want to go either, but we’ll call, text, and FaceTime as much as we can, and we’ll figure it out. We can figure it out.”

Jude’s lips parted to respond but her flight being called over the speakers cut him off. He sighed heavily. Naomi bit her lip to pierce her quivering lips. “I’ll miss you.”

“I’ll miss you,” Jude replied. He pressed a kiss against her lips.“Call me when you land, alright?” Naomi nodded and took her roller bag in her hand and began to walk toward her gate.

“Bye Jude.”

He waved sadly.“I’ll see you soon, Naomi.”

-

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naomisinclair until next time, madrid.

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saturnville and so it begins!

-

[milaisreading]

That time Yn met the Chevalier family

🌱🩷: Yeah... so this happened...

Warnings: Reader uses a mix of she/her and he/him since she is crossdressing. The characters are aged up here a little. Requests are open

⚽️Blue lock belongs to Muneyuki Kaneshiro and Yusuke Nomura⚽️

(Y/n) was exhausted from all the practices and games, so she had decided to take a break from practice and was given 2 weeks off to recharge her battery. Of course, she decided to travel for one week, and the other week she wanted to be back in Madrid to just sleep and go for walks. Somehow, Charles had found out about her plans and talked her ear off to come to France, where (Y/n) was at the current moment. And, although she was skeptical at first when Charles said he will be her guide, she came to like this arrangement. The boy knew his way around Lorient and took her to some interesting places to see. All in all, Charles was a lot more relaxing to be around and he grew a lot since the time she first met him.

On her last stay in Lorient, Charles had a brilliant idea about one final activity they could do.

----

"What?" (Y/n) blinked at the grinning French player. The duo sat in a small café, surrounded by a few locals who went on about their day, but (Y/n) ended up tuning them out as she processed the player's words.

'He wants me to meet... his family? But why me? It would make more sense if he asked that from Shidou, or Loki, they are close and teammates.'

"Please! You will love them!" Charles said again, sounding more desperate now than he previously was.

"But, why me? It would make more sense if you asked one of your teammates." (Y/n) argued.

"No! I like you and I want you to meet them! They heard so much about you and want to have you ever for dinner."

(Y/n) was left speechless for a while. They heard so much about her?

'I don't take many interviews. So how?'

"What do you mean by heard a lot about me? I barely even talk to the camera." (Y/n) raised an eyebrow as Charles grinned even wider.

"I told them about you!"

"Ah... Makes sense, then. But still, it's weird that you want me there." She argued again.

"You are nice to me, and I respect you as a player..and I... Never mind." Charles shook his head and looked back at (Y/n).

"Please! If you don't have time to visit Paris with me, you can have time for this. Mom is already preparing dinner for tonight."

"You said I will be there?" She asked in disbelief as Charles chuckled and nodded his head.

"Alright... what's the worst that can happen." She finally agreed, smiling when she saw Charles cheer in his seat.

That night, (Y/n) nervously fidgeted with the gifts she bought to the family as a small thank you for the dinner. Right as Charles opened the door for her, she was greeted by his parents, who were just as cheerful as Charles was.

"It's so nice to finally meet you! Please, come inside." The woman said as (Y/n) smiled greatfully.

"Thank you for welcoming me here. And thank you for the dinner." She bowed, handing her the presents later on.

"This is for you, Chevalier-san. Thank you again."

"There was no need, any friend from Charles is always welcome here."

"No need to be so formal around us, kid. Let's go to the living room now, I would like to hear some of your stories as a Re Al player." Charles' dad smiled and (Y/n) silently nodded her head, following after him while Charles and his mom stayed behind.

"He is so polite, honey." The woman said, nudging the boy. Charles smiled proudly and nodded his head.

"He is the best, you will see."

"I wonder if he has a girlfriend..." The woman muttered, causing the boy to look af her in confusion.

"Why?"

"Joana and him are around the same age, they would look cute together."

Charles froze at those words and looked at his mom like two heads grew on her.

"Big sis? No way, she isn't his type!"

"And how do you know that?" The woman raised an eyebrow as Charles shrugged.

"I just know."

'(Y/n) is definitely gay. There is no way he is into women...'

With that, Charles left his mom's side to follow his dad and (Y/n) to the living room.

-----

'Just how many siblings does he have?!' (Y/n) thought in shock as a little girl and boy tugged on her sleeves, while another girl kept saying some odd things to him.

"Are interested in urban legends? I read a lot of those Japanese ones. Is it true a woman at night will kill you if you say she isn't pretty." The girl with strawberry blonde hair asked in excitement, creeping (Y/n) out a little.

"Uhmm... I am unfamiliar with that one-"

"That's ok! I have more questions to ask, anyway."

"Great." (Y/n) forcefully smiled.

'Just how old is this kid?'

"What's it like playing for the pro league?! I bet it's exciting!!"

(Y/n) looked down at the boy, relaxing a little at that question.

"It's definitely a good time. Playing with and against great players like Luna-san and your brother. Do you plan on being a pro?"

"Mhm! I am already enrolled into a local club, and-"

"Can I please braid your hair?!" The other girl interrupted her brother, pulling on (Y/n)'s sleeve a few times.

"Yeah, sure." She nodded her head and looked back at the pouting boy.

"You said you are in a local club?"

The little boy perked up at the attention he was getting again, but before he could say anything, two new voices spoke up behind (Y/n).

"Can I get a picture with you?! You and Blue lock are quite popular among my peers in uni."

(Y/n) looked back to find a blonde girl, around her age, smiling excitedly while holding her phone up.

"Uhm... yeah, sure-"

"And an autograph for me! I got the new jersey of you that Re Al recently released." The older blonde guy said, pointing at the shirt.

"Yeah..." She numbly nodded her head.

'How many kids do these people have?!'

(Y/n) gulped as the girl from before started speaking about some random urban legend again, until Charles walked in and interrupted her.

"Ok! Don't overwhelm him so much! Come here." Charles said as he pulled (Y/n) away and behind him, glaring at the 5 siblings as (Y/n) tried to recollect herself.

'So many people...'

"Charles, don't be so mean. They just want to get to know your friend."

The father scolded the French player, who looked at him in disbelief.

"Look how nervous he is." He argued, pointing at the girl.

"Uhm..."

'Why did you put me on the spotlight, Charles?!' (Y/n) groaned as his father spoke up.

"Now, now. Kids, don't overwhelm him, and Charles, behave. They are just excited to meet him."

The player sighed in annoyance as (Y/n) looked between Charles and his brothers.

'Well... they might be somewhat different from each other, all 6 of them get easily excited.' She held back a laugh as the younger siblings approached her again.

_____

Charles loved his family, he really did. They were his main supporters and always made his worst days the best ones, but he can't deny that he was jealous at times. Specifically jealous of his siblings. There were times back in his childhood when they would steal their parents' attention from him. Charles especially felt that after his younger siblings were born. Although he understood it, he still felt mad about it, and he promised to himself that he would never feel like that again. But, now Charles sat in his living room, feeling the same anger and jealousy he felt years ago as he watched (Y/n) interact with everyone except for him. Every time he would speak to her, one of his siblings would interject and force her to focus on them, making Charles want to rip his hair out.

'This is stupid. Why did I even want this?! What if he starts liking them more and would rather hang out with them when he visits France?! Or worse, what if he falls for my sister?!'

Charles forced a smile as he watched (Y/n) speak with his older brother and said sister.

'There is no way he will like her... right? I am pretty sure he is gay, or at the very least my sister isn't his type.' The French player gulped silently, feeling uneasy at their closeness.

'Why do I even care so much? At the end of the day I probably annoy him, but he us one of the few people who solely focus on me when we talk.'

Charles shook his and continued to silently look at them, trying to ignore the whirlwind of feelings he was having.

But, his troubled state didn't go unnoticed by his mom and (Y/n). During dinner (Y/n) would try to make some conversation starters, but would just get very short answers before one of the siblings or oblivious dad would speak to her. It was so weird to (Y/n), but she decided to not say anything for now.

'I don't want to ruin the dinner for everyone. But it's so strange... He was so cheerful prior to bringing me here.' She hummed.

"How much do you practice during the day?"

The younger brother suddenly asked.

"Oh... We usually practice for 12 to 14 hours, depending on what our coach thinks it's the best and where we are during the season. Uhm... on my days off I sometimes practice for 3 hours alone." (Y/n) answered as the boy nodded while she was talking.

"I heard Japan has its own goth culture. What's it like?" The other younger girl asked.

"That's true, I heard sonin school at least. But, I am not much familiar with it-"

"Charles, can you come and help me with the cake cutting?"

(Y/n) interrupted herself as she heard his mother speak up, watching as the player nodded his head and got up from his chair to follow after her. (Y/n) waited a little before excusing herself to go to the bathroom.

"Do you need help to get around the house? I can come with you." The older sister offered, but (Y/n) quickly shook her head in protest, assuring her she will be fine.

'They can be quite over bearing...' She thought while taking in a few deep breaths.

'What's up with you, Charles?' She hummed and decided to quietly go to the kitchen and ask Charles to speak with him.

"That's quite childish of you, Charles. They just want to be friends with him. Don't forget, your younger brother is a fan of (Y/n)."

The girl stopped near the kitchen as she hear his mom speak, and then the said player sighing in annoyance.

'Why are they talking about me?!' She wondered, deciding to stay quiet and listen in.

"I can be annoyed at least once in my life at them. And you never try to see my point of view, it's always theirs. Every time I brought someone over they acted like this, they never give them any space." Charles said back, it was weird not hearing his cheerful tone.

"They are just excited. Stop being such an immature man. You are 19."

"You always take their side, both you and dad. I can never be right. And stop telling sis that she might have a chance with him, he is uncomfortable."

"Then he should say that. He is grown as well."

(Y/n) flinched at the woman's words.

'That's true... But, I know people will be mad or upset if I do say anything they don't want to hear. And it's just not worth the headache.'

"He isn't that direct, mom. I told you before he came here that he is more reserved and doesn't like upsetting people. Also, where are those sweets I got for his visit. Finding bakeries with Japanese sweets was hard." Charles' words surprised her genuinely, not having expected him to care that much to get those things for her.

"Your brothers liked them and ate them."

"Mom!"

"Don't yell at me. Now help me with that cake. And, stop being so moody."

"As always, my siblings can do no wrong." Charles muttered, but his mom decided to ignore the comment.

(Y/n) quickly backed away from the kitchen and walked quietly back to the dining area.

'So... I am guessing he didn't have the best upbringing...' She thought to herself, for a moment getting sad before an idea popped into her head.

'Well... I do have some more vacation days left that I didn't use up...' (Y/n) thought as she quickly took her phone from her pocket.

'Let's see...'

-----

"Thanks again for the dinner. I really liked the stay here." (Y/n) bowed as Charles put his shoes on.

"It was nice having you around. Visit us next time you are in France." The dad offered and (Y/n) slowly nodded her head as she said goodbye to everyone.

Charles kept quiet through the whole ordeal, only saying he will come home later when they left.

The two quietly walked down the sidewalk, (Y/n) enjoyed the warm summer night as she looked around the empty road.

'Everyone is home, I guess.' She thought.

"Sorry for my siblings. They can be quite overbearing." Charles suddenly spoke up, causing (Y/n) to look back at him.

"It's fine, they weren't-"

"They were. I saw how uncomfortable you were, don't lie." Charles said, looking back at her with a weird cold look. (Y/n) shut her mouth for a moment as the younger kept looking back at her.

"It's... It's fine, you don't have to apologize for them. Say, you are going back to Paris tomorrow?"

"Yeah, my train leaves a few hours after your flight to Madrid." Charles nodded his head.

"There is no reason here for me to stay longer. So I will spend the rest of my vacation in Paris."

(Y/n) bit the inside of her cheek and spoke up after a while.

"Uhm... say, you told me you wanted to visit that one new restaurant that opened in Paris a week ago."

"You remember that? Yeah, I did." The player asked in confusion as (Y/n) took her phone out.

"I reserved us a table for the day after tomorrow. I decided to stay in France a little longer so I will be going back to Paris tomorrow with you."

Charles stopped in his tracks as he read thebonline reservation she made.

'He did that for me?' The French player looked at (Y/n) for a moment before quickly hugging her.

"You are the best! Thank you! There are a few more places I want to take you to in Paris! You won't regret it!"

Charles smiled as his hug tightened. (Y/n) was meanwhile blushing from the closeness, but gave him a few pats on the back.

"Nothing worth mentioning."

[laterosal]

♤ Summer Love in Moonlight | Itoshi Sae x Reader

▽ featuring: itoshi sae x fem!reader … no repost on any platforms © laterosal 2024 … pre-blue lock era | during early summer, a late night visit to the hills where you both quietly stare at the night sky and make your wish as a shooting star streaked across the starry night … word count: 3.3k

📌 AO3 | one-shot

“We’re going a little too far, Sae,” you whispered as you instinctively reached for his hand, pulling him next to you as you stumbled across the rolling hills under the night sky. “I’ve never been this far out from the city.” Having trailed after Sae to the outskirts of the city and leaving the flickering lights of each skyscraper and lofty building behind, you finally caught your breath as he slowly stopped at the top of a hill. “Are we supposed to be this far out from the town?”

“There’s a reason I brought you here. You’ll see.” He gently massaged the back of your hand with his thumb as you both settled at the top of the hill, sitting together. You brought your legs up to your chest and hugged them as the warm breezes blew your hair to one side.

“So. What made you decide that bringing me to an isolated place was a good choice?” you asked in a soft voice, linking your hands with his. Your shallow breathing could still be heard in the quiet outskirts as if a ripple of an echo. “It’s unlike you.”

He did not respond. Rather, his teal-colored eyes trailed up the clear night sky, with you especially staring attentively at his long underlashes.

“I’m going to Madrid soon.”

You blink slowly as you turn your head to him.

“Wait—Really?” You jumped up in excitement and tackled him onto the ground. “That’s— OOMPH.”

“Y/N, if you crush my bones or bruise me, I’ll have the pleasure of making your life miserable.” Sae groaned as you gently pushed yourself up, cheeks flushed from your bodies’ heat radiating off of each other.

“Okay, okay—I’ll see you try.” You smiled mischievously and sat next to him, folding your arms as you leaned against his shoulder. He’s going to Madrid. He’s going… to Madrid.

It was his lifelong dream to become the world’s best striker—and you had supported his journey since the young ages when he first began football. Although the words that tumbled out of his mouth didn’t sit right with you, you brushed off this emotion that shattered your heart into pieces.

He’s leaving.

How long would you have to wait for him to come back? For years?

“I wish you the best of luck for this next part of your journey, then,” you whisper as you stare into the sky along with him, your eyes glistening with tears. “I’ll hope to see you one day on the news as the world’s best striker!”

“Right.” Sae nodded slowly as he let go of your hand, crossing his arms.

“You don’t sound happy at all.”

“Thanks for stating the obvious, Y/N. Of course I am not, to some degree. I don’t want to leave home yet. Not when both my brother and… still need me.” Sae shrugged as he gazed towards the rolling hills and slowly at you.

Your brother and?

“I’m sure Rin is also happy that you’re able to have this opportunity of playing in this world class arena of football.” You hoped that these words would wash away his doubts of making his decision, but a part of you wanted to be selfish and hoped for him to decline the invitation joining Re Al.

“Are you?” Your hesitation must have answered his question, as he followed up with: “That tells me enough, then.”

“Don't take that the wrong way. I am happy for you! I just… want to spend more time with you. We’ve been childhood friends for, what, more than a decade now? Our whole lives?” You fidgeted with your fingers as you lean your head on top of your knees. “It’s a difficult change without you. Especially when we’re going to start the second semester as a third-year in junior high school soon. I mean, just think about it. What will I do if I’m starting my first year in high school by next year?”

“Do you know that if you wish for something, it binds you to the unknown and the uncertainty?”

“You’re 14, Sae. What riddles are you spouting about?” You roll your eyes, stretching your legs and hands out, covering as much of the hill as you can. “What ‘unknown’ or ‘uncertainty’ do you talk about?”

“I brought you here to see the stars, that’s all.” Sae closed his eyes and listened into the naturalistic surroundings, the quiet chirps and grass rustling. “You don’t know any English, do you, Y/N?”

“Not a lot,” you admitted. “Why?” He pointed into the sky as your eyes trailed the stars. Then, a streak of white flew across the sky, an illuminating memory captured in your eyes. You shut them, clasping your hands together as you quietly murmured your wish. He, on the other hand, alluringly stared at your calm face, your lips slightly parted open. Illuminated under the moonlight, Sae could only view you as an untouchable person, someone too pure for the world.

I hope he can stay with me. Just one last time. I hope I can hold you close to me as I lean forward towards your face, under the night sky.

“Tonight wasn’t meant for the stars to guide us together. I meant for us to see the moon, ignorant child. The moon… is beautiful, isn’t it?” Sae whispered in English, reaching his fingers out into the sky. He turned to look at you, your eyes still closed.

“Did you say something, Sae?” You opened your mouth to add something, before pausing. A small smile appeared as you understood Sae’s very confession in English.

“No.” He responded coldly. “It’s nothing.”

“It’s nothing.” You echoed. Your wish. His confession. “Right, it’s really, really, nothing.”

Your unresolved feelings attacked your heart into the depths, feeling a pool of emptiness in your eyes and soul. Say something.

“We should head back now. Rin-chan might be worrying about you.” You stood up, brushing the grass off your legs. Both of you felt a sudden early summer wave of humid heat despite it being a cooler evening compared to the other nights. “Isn’t he such a great younger brother, looking up to you? And definitely skilled in football, too.”

Sae shrugged, standing up and making his way back to the city lights.

“Yeah. He… is. Maybe… he has the potential to be a striker.”

“Happy birthday! How are you doing? I hope you got to treat yourself to something for your birthday. I was just watching your brother in a football match—you don’t understand how much he’s been improving. Maybe sometime soon you can come back to Japan, you know? I really want to see you again! Oh, and Rin-chan’s been asking what you have been doing for football practices by the way, and he says hi! … Ew, that did not sound like me at all.” BZZT.

“Happy birthday Sae! It’s been a while since I’ve— Okay, no. Let’s try again.” BZZT.

“Uh. Happy birthday, Sae. I hope you’re doing well in Madrid! It’s been a while since I’ve actually talked to you. Just want to check in and make sure you haven’t vanished from existence, yeah? I… Your brother says hi, by the way. Um. … Yeah. I don’t know.” BZZT.

“I never reached out to you for these past few months, but I just wanted to say happy birthday! I hope you’re doing well. And… I really miss you.”

A winter night where news from Rin came that his older brother came back for a few days. You were hesitant exactly how to greet him—would anything change with you understanding his confession? Would your relationship be any different than now? During these few years as Itoshi Sae was in Madrid, you tried contacting him multiple times, though leaving unsent emails in your inbox. He never reached out to you, either. Therefore you both left it alone, no words spoken towards one another for the past few years.

You hurried over to the Itoshi house, a familiar route where from time to time you would hold Rin’s hand as you walked him back home. The road lights flickered every other step that echoed within the street, your hands stuffed into your pockets as you breathed out a puff of air. Your eyes wandered from one house door to another, finally landing on the overgrown vines that snaked up the house, untrimmed grass, and dim golden light from the window. It did not seem to welcome visitors, the whole environment of the house seemingly isolated from the rest of the neighborhood. You stalked up the pathway to the porch, holding a fist up to knock on the door, before dropping your hand.

“Y/N-kun?” A quavering voice that invited anything but warmth spoke behind you. You turned around, noticing his familiar magenta hair slightly longer than the last time they met. “Why are you here?”

“How are you?” You cracked a smile, hoping to lighten the mood. No greetings. Nothing. You fidgeted with the hem of your clothes as you awkwardly looked away from Sae’s exhausted gaze, eye bags quite noticeable.

“Fine,” he muttered coldly, unlocking the door and slamming the door shut. You jump at the impact of the sound, backing a few steps away.

“Are you okay?” You ask quietly through the door, wondering if Itoshi Sae was still hovering behind the door. “Where’s Rin-chan?”

“I’m tired, Y/N-kun. I hope you can see yourself out.” His footsteps were light against the echoing hallway.

You stood in surprise, not wondering what happened at his time in Madrid. Knowing Sae, you would feel that he dodged your question about his younger brother for a reason. Perhaps because of an argument between the two Itoshi brothers.

You thought about whether to open the door, to reach for him, to ask him what was wrong. Though deep down, you wondered if he still harbored feelings for you. If he was the same person from years ago, or if his inner child and teenager disappeared from existence.

You weren’t exactly sure what to do. The door had just been slammed in front of your face, although it started creaking open, as if beckoning you to enter. You finally stepped in, turning the knob on the door behind you to shut it.

You walked towards his bedroom, seeing a dim light stretch from the bedroom to the hallways, as his body was sprawled on his bed, with a small twitch of his arm.

You didn’t know what went wrong. Where it went wrong. A shiver went up your spine as you felt uncomfortable being so close to Sae.

You desperately wanted to reach for him, embrace him and whisper that everything was fine.

Was it? Was everything fine, after all these years?

Sleepless nights as you tossed and turned in bed, thinking about the moonlit night—Could you have said something to keep him here? Though, you thought again and shook your head. Little Rin would have strangled you for not letting his older brother chase after their dream of being strikers together.

It had been several months since you last saw both Itoshi brothers. You figured that they just needed some time alone, before you three were able to go back to the old days and hang out at the park.

You were completely wrong about that.

Last message Rin sent had been only a few days back, with him letting you know he was out for a football training program. You still looked at the message occasionally, before setting your phone on the table.

“Well,” Nori Ayaka tapped her index finger against her chin. “Maybe they really hate each other now. Brothers since forever… and now they hate each other?”

“I don’t think so,” you mumbled. “Sae isn’t the type of person to hold a grudge on another. Uh, but Rin… is a different story.”

“So the younger brother has this one-sided violent hatred towards his older brother?” your friend clarified. “Ah, well. Does the older one even know?”

“I don’t know…” you admitted. “He just looked… tired.” Your eyes wandered towards the bustling streets from the modern glass windows, in which trees swayed every so often with colorful leaves catching the rhythm of the large wind currents.

“Okay, well, think of it this way: if you had a childhood friend…” Your friend leaned back against her chair and folded her arms. “And you two had a dream together for a long time, and one day, your childhood friend of over a decade crushes your dream by accepting the reality, how would you feel?”

“Um, betrayed.” You blinked a few times, staring at your friend with a pointed look.

“Exactly! That’s the situation your friend’s younger brother is in.”

“O…kay? So, Rin feels betrayed by his brother crushing their dreams… and Sae doesn’t realize the harm that has been done towards his brother?”

“I would assume so.” She shrugged, pulling on her sleeves of the oversized hoodie. “But from what you were saying about the prodigy, I would assume he’s either burnt out from football or had his dreams crushed by the world class football teams and strikers.”

“I see. But my question is, why are they avoiding me? It’s not like I did anything to Rin or Sae, did I? I tried to message Sae a while back with no response, and Rin… Well, the only message he sent was something about a football program.”

“Hm. How about talking to the older brother? I mean, the younger one, Rin, was it? Isn’t he gone now—to the football program you mentioned,” she clarified.

“Riiight.” You sighed and propped your arm up against your chin. “Okay. I’ll see about it. Thank you, Ayaka.” You weren’t sure whether to feel nervous to strike up a conversation with Sae after your last encounter. Although, the aroma of coffee and incessant clinking of the crockery slowly washed your worries away, putting your mind more at ease.

You looked up from your phone and breathed a sigh of relief. Done. Sent. Though, you were surprised to see him text you back so quickly.

You vaguely remembered the rocky roads to the outskirts of the city, the rowdy crowds and noise diminishing the farther you ventured down the road. Frequently, you could hear birds chirping from far away then softening, fading into the silent night.

As you followed the swarm of birds that perched at the top of the hill, you noticed a figure already sitting near the birds, glancing at the shimmers of the sky.

You shuffled through the grass and finally made your way to your childhood friend, to which he greets you with: “You’re early.”

“Says the one who’s already here before me.” You rolled your eyes, checking your phone for the time. 11:49PM. You plopped next to him hugging your knees, your head turned to stare at his turquoise eyes.

“You know,” you whispered after several minutes of silence. “What did you mean by ‘the unknown and the uncertainty?’”

He scrunched his eyebrows together.

“You brought me to see the stars this time.” He paused slightly. “Maybe I was just a 14-year-old spouting riddles and nonsense.” You gave him a long stare, releasing a sigh.

“You’re 14, Sae. What riddles are you spouting about?”

You once said that. So why was he repeating the words that left your mouth years ago?

Though, thinking back at your memories from your previous encounter, you realized you had asked him about the unknown and the uncertainty once before.

“What ‘unknown’ or ‘uncertainty’ do you talk about?”

“I brought you here to see the stars, that’s all.”

“Am I missing something?” You wondered aloud.

“The stars,” he started. “are a symbol of hope. When I brought you to see the stars, I wanted to gain hope. I wanted the two of us to have hope. And it turns out, I was right. When you wish for something, you only think about your wish and the result you get out of it. You don’t think about the unknown and the uncertainty—the time in between the creation of a wish and the fulfilment of a wish.”

You swallowed a lump in your throat. Hope.

“Hope has also chained me to the uncertainty, while I solely thought of the fulfillment of a dream.” You nodded slowly. “What… about your dream of becoming the best striker?”

He went silent.

“It’s difficult to choose between the two dreams I had, when I was a 14-year-old. So, I chose one over the other.” You went silent. His other dream about the two of you together, running beneath the moonlight and stars and sky. “Though, being the best striker… Nevermind that. What did you wish for that day when there was a shooting star?” Sae tilted his head to get a better look at your face.

“What did you?”

“I didn’t. I was just looking at you.” You choked on your saliva as you heard his blunt words—which, you supposed, was typical of Sae; after all, his blunt and occasional arrogant behavior was what set him apart from his radiantly positive and enthusiastic brother.

“And I can’t tell you. If wishes are spoken, aren’t they…” You searched your mind for a word to complete the sentence.

“They won’t come true, huh.” You nodded.

I hope he can stay with me.

“The moon is beautiful tonight, isn’t it?” You smiled dimly as you whispered in English, staring at the clouded moonlight.

“The moonlight is—What?” He turned his head to see a tear slip down your cheek.

Just one more last time.

“You don’t know any English, do you?”

“Not a lot.”

A soft whistling filled the night air, as he leaned forward to wipe a tear away with his thumb.

I hope I can hold you close to me as I lean forward towards your face, under the night sky.

He wrapped his arms around you, making gentle circles with his hand around your back. You leaned in towards his embrace and pressed your head against his chest.

“Years ago, you said that ‘tonight wasn’t meant for the stars to guide us together.’” You laughed softly as you ran your fingers through his hair.

“That was true then. But… I have decided.”

Tonight wasn’t meant for the stars to guide us together.

“Decided?” You raised your eyebrows, angling your head to meet his alluring gaze.

“To stay with you. What else?” He rolled his eyes as he cracked a small smile.

“It took you a few years to decide that. I don’t blame you though; after all, I did support your dream to become the best striker,” you jokingly commented. His smile vanished instantly as he looked uncomfortable.

“Sometimes, I feel like the past few years in Madrid were a waste. Oh, I…” He noticed your confused expression. “I accepted the reality of my ability as a striker. The world out there is huge, after all. I am hoping to be a great midfielder some day.”

“Is that why Rin…” You stopped, recalling your friend Ayaka’s words. “I see. Well, I’m sure you already are a great midfielder. Besides that, I’ll root for you no matter what, whether your dreams change or not. Okay?” You held out your pinky. “Promise that we’ll be together forever, no matter what happens.”

“Yeah.” You buried your head into his arm as you intertwined fingers together.

Sitting beneath the pale moonlight at summer’s end, flocks of birds soared into the sky, following a streak of bright light in the darkness; the shooting star raced across the night, sealing their promise for eternities and beyond.

a/n: last post for the year :') hope you guys enjoyed reading this hweheh

[wowzees]

Inescapable

a/n: ahhhh its finally done! in the story, he is older! in 2009, he is 24. ENJOY!!!!!

WARNINGS!: THIS IS A DARK STORY! PLEASE NOTE THAT THE WAY CARLOS INTERACTS, IS NOT REAL! READ AT YOUR OWN RISK!!! 

enjoy!

2009

The sun was beginning to set over the New York City skyline, casting long shadows across the streets of Woodstock. The soft rustle of leaves in the evening breeze and the distant murmur of conversations blended into the background as Y/N sat on her small porch, gazing out at the quiet hills and familiar streets. Woodstock had always felt like home—peaceful and alive in its own unique way, rustic yet full of artistic energy. It was the perfect escape from the chaos of the city. And most days, it was enough for her.

Y/N had moved here from Madrid at 14, finding solace in the cozy coffee shops, local galleries, and the old-world charm of the town. It was a life she loved—most of the time. But then Carlos would come, and everything would change.

Carlos—born in Madrid, now living in Monaco—was the one person who could turn her world upside down. He wasn’t just a best friend. He was a force, magnetic and unnervingly smooth, always able to make her feel like the most important person in the room. But that charm was a mask for something darker. Carlos wasn’t just manipulative. He was possessive, obsessive. He wanted control, and he wasn’t content until Y/N was entirely his—body, mind, and soul.

Every few months, he would make the long journey from Monaco to visit, and every time, it was the same. He’d show up with that same cocky grin and penetrating eyes, exuding an aura of entitlement that made it clear he owned everything in her world. The past was always at the forefront of their conversations—those years spent together in Madrid, their inseparable bond. With Carlos, it was always about history, about rewriting the narrative until it suited his desires.

Y/N didn’t remember things the way he did. She remembered the cracks, the tension, the unspoken fights. But with Carlos, reality bent to his will, and she couldn’t help but fall back into their old rhythm. His words always seemed to reshape the truth, until she no longer knew where the past ended and where the manipulation began.

Tonight, she knew Carlos would be knocking at her door soon. The familiar cocktail of dread and anticipation twisted in her chest. She could already feel herself slipping back into the pull of his world, and she hated it. It was always the same: he would charm her, remind her of their history, and when he left, everything would be different. He never left without marking his territory.

Carlos paced the cobblestone streets of Woodstock, the flickering gaslights casting eerie shadows on his sharp features. He wasn’t a monster. Not in his mind. He was just someone who understood what he wanted, and wasn’t afraid to take it. People had their roles, and Y/N’s role was clear: she had always been his, long before she ever knew it.

She had been vulnerable. Too trusting. Too open. And he could fix that. He would fix it—remove every obstacle standing in the way of her and the life he wanted for them. A life where she was his, and only his.

Marcus was the first on his list. The musician who had come between them—a fleeting presence in her life, someone who had discarded her when the next best thing came along. Carlos had watched her suffer the sting of that abandonment. It didn’t matter how much she had loved Marcus. What mattered was that Marcus had stolen her attention. Carlos wasn’t about to let that slide.

The encounter was swift—no confrontation, just a quiet, deadly movement. A wire around Marcus’s neck. No fanfare. Just the silence of finality.

Next came Thomas—the lawyer who had woven himself into Y/N’s life, creating complications with her family. Carlos had no time for people like Thomas, who didn’t know their place. He found him on a late-night jog, his headphones blaring, blissfully unaware of the predator in the shadows. A swift, graceful movement, and Thomas was gone, erased from her life like a mistake.

Isabella, her childhood friend, was a different matter. She was the one who could see through Carlos—who knew too much, who could potentially help Y/N see through him. And Carlos couldn’t allow that. He planted seeds of doubt, twisted their friendship, and lured Isabella into a trap. The reunion was supposed to be simple—just the two of them in an isolated vacation home. But once she was alone, Carlos showed her who he really was. His words were enough to break her, and before the night ended, she was gone—another threat extinguished.

Carlos wasn’t a monster. He was a sculptor, carefully chiseling away at the world to make it perfect for the two of them. Y/N would finally be his—free of distractions, free of competition.

Y/N stood frozen in the doorway, her heart hammering in her chest as Carlos stood on the other side, his calm demeanor only heightening the sense of dread that consumed her. The warmth of his presence, which used to comfort her, now felt suffocating.

"Y/N," Carlos said softly, his voice almost affectionate. "There’s something I need to tell you."

Her breath caught in her throat. The words were too deliberate, too carefully chosen. "What’s going on?" she asked, her voice trembling despite her best efforts to hold it together. "Carlos, why do I feel like there’s something you’re not telling me?"

His smile spread, predatory and knowing. "I did it for you," he said, his tone casual, as if he were talking about something trivial. "Every last thing. All of it."

Confused, Y/N took a step back, her mind scrambling to make sense of what he was saying. "What do you mean?"

Carlos didn’t answer right away. Instead, he pulled out his phone, showing her pictures—faces, names. It took a moment, but then it hit her. The people in the pictures—Marcus, Thomas, Isabella—were... dead. The truth, the horrifying truth, surged through her like icy water.

"You killed them?" Her voice barely reached above a whisper. "You killed them... for me?"

Carlos nodded, the calm certainty in his eyes making her stomach churn. "They were in the way. They didn’t belong in your world. You don’t need them. You never did."

"No," she gasped, shaking her head in disbelief. "Carlos, no. This isn’t... this isn’t how it’s supposed to be."

"But I did it because I love you," he insisted, his voice soft, almost pleading. "No one else could see you the way I do. No one else could protect you like I can. Only I’m worthy of you."

Her heart shattered, her legs weak beneath her. She staggered back, trying to absorb the weight of his words. Everything—the years of friendship, the moments of tenderness, the promises he made—it was all a lie. She wasn’t special to him. She was a possession.

"I need to leave," she said, her voice cracking. "I can’t... I can’t be a part of this anymore, Carlos. I can’t."

"You’re scared," he said, his voice low, almost soothing. "I know this is a lot, but in time, you’ll understand. I’m doing this for us. For you. There’s no one else. You’re safe now."

Safe? Safe from what? From who? His words twisted in her mind, the reality of her situation crashing down like a weight. She was trapped—not by anyone else, but by him.

"I’m leaving," she whispered, tears welling in her eyes. "I can’t... I can’t stay here with you."

Carlos’s expression darkened, his eyes flashing with something cold and dangerous. "You think you can leave?" His voice dropped, low and threatening. "You belong to me. You always have."

Before she could respond, there was a loud knock at the door, sharp and insistent. "Police! Open up! We have a warrant!"

Y/N froze, her heart leaping into her throat. "They’re here for you," she whispered, her breath catching. "They know what you’ve done."

Carlos’s lips curled into a thin, bitter smile. "No, they don’t," he said, his tone calm, dismissive. "They won’t find anything. Not when it’s all over."

Another knock, louder this time. "Open up! We know you’re in there!"

Y/N’s pulse quickened. She reached for the door handle, desperate for an escape, but Carlos moved faster, stepping in front of her, blocking her path.

"You think they’ll save you?" His voice was eerily soft, but the danger in it was palpable. "You’re mine, Y/N. You always have been."

Before he could move again, the door crashed open, splintering against the force. Officers poured in, guns drawn. "Get down on the ground!" one shouted.

Carlos didn’t flinch. His face remained unchanged as he stared at Y/N, his eyes cold with an unsettling certainty. "You can’t take me," he said, his voice barely a whisper. "Not after everything I’ve done for her."

The officers surrounded him, hands on their weapons, ready to subdue him. Carlos raised his hands slowly, surrendering—but his eyes never left Y/N, his gaze still full of unspoken promises.

As they cuffed him and led him away, Y/N stood there in shock, the realization of what had just happened sinking in. The weight of everything—the deaths, the manipulation, the control—finally hit her. She was free. But at what cost?

2025

The city felt different these days. Y/N had made peace with New York, with the chaos and constant movement. She had carved out a life for herself—a job, a circle of friends, a small but cozy apartment that had once seemed like an impossible dream. It was a world away from the one Carlos had tried to trap her in, the one she had escaped with nothing but the remnants of her dignity and a heart full of scars.

She had grown. She had learned to stand on her own. Time had done its work, slowly eroding the memories of those darker days. But the truth was, she never really stopped thinking about him. She hadn’t known how to stop loving him, not entirely, even after everything.

Carlos had been a force in her life, something magnetic and dangerous, a part of her story that she couldn’t quite erase. She’d buried it deep, convinced herself that she was stronger now, that she had moved on. She thought that if she just kept going, kept moving forward, she could outrun the past.

But no one could outrun a shadow forever.

Y/N’s heart skipped a beat as she turned the corner to her apartment building, the familiar old stone facade comforting her, as it always did. The noise of the city buzzed around her, a reminder of how far she’d come from the quiet, isolated life she’d lived in Woodstock.

She fumbled in her bag for her keys, already mentally preparing for the usual night—perhaps a late dinner, a glass of wine, maybe a book to read before bed. She was just about to step inside when a chill ran through her.

The door was slightly ajar.

Her stomach dropped.

It was a small thing, just the tiniest gap, but it was enough to set her on edge. She pushed the door open a little more, her pulse quickening. Something was wrong. She could feel it. The air was still, almost suffocating in its silence.

“Hello?” she called out, though her voice sounded small, unsure. No answer.

Her mind raced, instinct kicking in. The last few months had lulled her into a false sense of security. She hadn’t thought of Carlos much, convinced herself he was a part of her past, a chapter she’d closed. She had built her walls back up. She had moved on.

But then… the door.

And now, the air felt thick, heavy. As though it had been waiting for something. For her.

Her heartbeat pounded in her ears as she stepped inside, her feet light and cautious, as though treading on fragile ground. The apartment looked exactly as she left it—no sign of a break-in. No sign of anything.

Then, the sound.

The floor creaked behind her.

Before she could react, something—someone—pressed her back against the door. A cold, familiar weight she had never thought she’d feel again.

Y/N’s breath caught in her throat. She froze.

And then she heard the voice she never wanted to hear again. “Miss me?”

Her blood ran cold.

Carlos.

She didn’t need to turn around to know he was there. She didn’t need to see his face, because she felt it—the presence that had haunted her for years, a presence she had foolishly thought she had escaped.

But here he was. In her apartment. Holding her in place like she was nothing more than an object to be controlled.

“I thought you were done with me,” Carlos murmured, his voice soft and dangerously calm as his hand found the back of her neck. His touch was somehow both familiar and foreign now, a feeling that churned her stomach. “I thought you had finally learned to live without me.”

Her body tensed, the panic rising in her chest as she gripped the doorframe for support. “What do you want?” Her voice barely above a whisper, a mix of fear and disbelief. “I’ve moved on, Carlos. I’ve—”

“You never moved on, Y/N,” he interrupted, his lips brushing against her ear. “Not really. I know you think you’ve built something here. You think you’re safe. But I’ve always been a part of you. You can’t get rid of me.”

His words sank into her like cold steel, and she was back there again—caught in the magnetic pull of him, of his words, his charm, his power. The pull of someone who had always known how to make her feel like she belonged to him, like she was his. And for so long, she had wanted to believe it was love.

Her pulse hammered in her throat. “No,” she whispered, shaking her head, trying to hold on to the tiny shred of self-possession she had left. “This isn’t love, Carlos. It never was.”

He chuckled darkly, the sound a low, cruel thing. “It’s whatever you need it to be, Y/N. But we both know the truth. You’re mine. You’ve always been mine. You never really escaped me. Not here,” he said, pressing her harder against the door, his body a wall of solid presence.

His grip on her tightened, but it wasn’t forceful—not yet. It was calculated. Measured. His lips brushed the back of her neck, and she wanted to scream, to fight, but the weight of it all—the history, the emotions, the memories—held her in place.

She wanted to run. To tell him to leave. But even as she thought it, she realized the truth. She wasn’t free.

He had always known how to reach her. How to make her doubt herself. How to lull her into thinking she was safe.

And now, as she stood there in the silence of her own apartment, she realized she had been wrong all along. She had never truly escaped him. Not in the way she thought.

Carlos leaned in closer, his breath hot against her skin. “You think you can hide from me forever? You think you’re strong enough to get away?” His voice was almost a whisper now, a dangerous lullaby. “I’m always going to find you, Y/N. Always.”

His words froze her, suffocated her, and for the first time in a long while, Y/N felt that familiar panic rise up in her chest. The truth crashed in—she hadn’t outrun him. She hadn’t escaped at all.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered, her voice barely audible as her body betrayed her, her own hands clutching at the door behind her, bracing herself for what was coming next.

Carlos pulled back, just enough to look into her eyes. His face was inches from hers, his gaze sharp and predatory, a slow, dangerous smile curling on his lips. “I know you are, Y/N. I know.”

And just like that, she was lost again—trapped in the web of his manipulation, his control. She thought she was free. But she wasn’t. She never had been.

[f1amboyant]

So many interesting titles, but would love to hear more about Baked Alaska 💜

-> in answer to this (ask me more about my WIPs)

Hi Mar! Hi @lafaerie 🩵 I didn't expect this title to pick your interests but I'm happy to talk about it a little 🥰

To be honest, this is all @drspleenmeister's fault (love you, dear 😘). Baked Alaska is a little fic battle between Spleen and me, featuring baker!carlos and ice cream shop owner!charles. No plot, just those two pining for the other from across the street 🤭

Can I offer you a little taste, maybe? 😋

Opening LEC Ice Cream has been a dream of Charles forever and it finally happened, in a small and beautiful street in the warm city of Madrid. The dream has begun.

(And it is not a small bonus that the shop owner from across the street is hot as hell.)

(Actually, it might have been one of the reasons why Charles chose this place between the several locations he visited. Not the only reason of course. But it definitely played a part. And Pierre has been mocking him non-stop since then.)

For five weeks, Charles has waved at the baker brightly every morning and received a side glance at best. But Charles is nothing if not determined. So when this morning, for the first time ever, Hot Spanish Baguette waved back (or sort of), Charles decided to take his chance.

If he had known what had waited for him in that bakery, Charles would have crossed the street way sooner.

Hot Spanish Baguette is hot as hell. But his croissant is even more delicious. The first bite is heaven, the second is pure ecstasy and Charles has to close his eyes to savor it. He can’t quite keep the moan that escapes his mouth. But lucky for him, his apron hides the semi in his pants.

Yeah. He’s getting hard eating pastries. Sue him.

It’s also totally Hot Spanish Baguette’s fault, being all sexy and handsome behind his counter. The black tousled hair and high cheekbones come straight from heaven (or maybe hell, tempting Charles in the worst best way). The big brown eyes have Charles’ heart hammering in his chest.

(Also, he wants to lick that little smear of flour on the man’s jaw and beard.)

“This is amazing,” Charles says in awe after swallowing down the whole croissant (and maybe he’s not only talking about the pastry). “I should bring one to Pierre. And you know, it would go so well with our crunchy chocolate flavor and you should–”

“I have work to do,” the man (Carlos) blurts out. His cheekbones look pink. “Sorry. There’s a lot of things to do before opening. I have work.”

“Oh.” Charles tries to hide his disappointment but the croissant suddenly leaves a bitter after taste in his mouth. What did he do wrong? He babbled again, didn’t he? People don’t like when he babbles and giggles. Merde. He fucked up. “Sure, sure,” he says with a nervous giggles (stop giggling stupidly, Charlie), “I’ll come back later.”

Carlos barely grunts an answer, before turning away and going (fleeing) to the back of the shop. Trying (and failing) not to take it personally, Charles walks back to his own shop where Pierre is already putting up the displays and setting up everything.

Charles slouches against the counter.

“So how did it go?” Pierre asks.

“He looks even more handsome from up close,” Charles sighed. His gaze pierces through the window, looking right across the street at the sweet little bakery. “And his croissants are to die for.”

[mizu-kie]

Part 2....

Itoshi sae x reader

For context please read part 1

Tags:Angst, Guilt, Regret.

"Take care". Those were the last words you said in front of him. He regretted it that day for getting late on your date. He missed the time focused on practicing soccer; he showed up in the restaurant full of sweat, didn't bother to shower, and just changed his top.

Roaming his eyes around the place just to find you, he notices a group of people swarming in one alley. An ambulance rushes into the place. At first, he had no idea it was you and kept on looking for you; he can't even call you after all he rushes here and forgot his phone in his locker.

"I feel bad for her; look at her bruises; it's dangerous to let our children out in this place until people like those jerks roam around this world." the old lady said, which caught Sae's attention.

His world stops when he looks in your direction,its you. Getting into the ambulance,without any second thought he ran towards you without breaking any eye contact.

He burst into tears, looking at your situation. He regrets it even more. Helplessly looking at the ambulance getting far away, wishing you to be alright.

Sae bothers the police hour by hour about the update of those criminals who hurt and abused you,he nearly punch those bastard after they were caught 3 hours later but was stopped by the police.

He checks you through your room door again,he always checks on you, leaving you with a basket of fruits then runs to the exit its a feeling of guilt.

He's reflecting himself; he can't bear looking at you after all; it's his fault you ended up in that situation, his fault for being late. Not only that, but he never deserved you; he knew.

Every day, Sae can't focus on his soccer and visits your shared apartment outside. You called Sae again, but this time he stared at his phone, shaking his hand and debating whether to answer the phone. He is silently wishing for you to stop. And he received a message from you.

From:Love

When i met you two years ago when we visited and stayed in Madrid for six months,i went to a soccer match with my cousin who truly loves soccer (he really forced me to watch) but i didn't regret it because i met you there,your so good that i instantly have a crush on you, my cousin is a friend of one of your teammates and often invites your team that's how we officially met i know you don't have an interest with me that why i never really bother you that much but when we are leaving you ran towards me and ask me to be your girlfriend which made my heart jump in joy,after that we went into long distance which is hard but i understand before me your obsessed playing soccer, i cant just show to your life and stops or bother you with your dream, please don't give up being the best player cause im giving up this relationship, im sorry to bother you these years,im saying that i enjoy being with you and i love you i still do —im just giving up, those having crush on you turns into crushing me into pieces ,i know i deserves someone better . This will be the last time we'll be talking to each other. I love you; take care. My final good-bye.

He cried; he cries like a lost child who has lost his mother. He wanted you to stop, but he never meant it. He didn't think you were a nuisance. He always enjoys your company and loves all your stories, wishes, dreams, and gossip.

He loves you.

You don't know how much he brags about you in front of his teammates or how he smiles every time you embarrass yourself in front of him. I'm sorry you feel that way. I'm sorry he broke your heart. He hopes you can talk to each other again.Hoping for closure.

he's giving you peace. That's it. 

However he still wants you,Sae will forever think he never deserved happiness.

[enhypoems]

POV: You and Enhypen's hyung line go on a romantic trip to Spain.🗒!♡

⍝ ˘ ᵜ ˘ ⍝ 

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.

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Pair: Fem! reader×hyung line

TW: slightly suggestive content (nothing graphic, it's like for one line)

Warnings: none

Word count: 462 !

Genre: Mainly fluff 

ଘ( ິ•ᆺ• )ິଓ Jay…

-  Would take you to all possible boutiques.

- Real Madrid couple's shirt.

- Would study the language with you.

- Would visit every existing tourist spot.

- Quality time is the key.

- He is always hungry !  24/7 restaurants.

- Without a doubt, I would propose to you in Alhambra.

- Jong would play the guitar for you.

- Would go on a wine tasting tour or visit a local winery.

- Explore picturesque destinations and scenic spots together.

- He would definitely marry you the sec you speak spanish w him (we all know bro has a sweet spot to languages)

(꜆˶ᵔᵕᵔ˶)꜆ Sunghoon…

-He would post at least 100 stories per day.

- Spain = You guys fashion runway, always smiling and pretending you are in a fashion show.

- Lots of public hugs.

- He would take you to ice skating.

- Would watch many repertoire ballets.

- Dad jokes all the time everywhere.

- Lots of kisses. He's the best kisser ever istg

- IG feed with matching photos.

- Pamper yourselves with couples' spa treatments and massages.

- Watch a breathtaking sunset or sunrise together.

₍ᐢ _‥ᐢ₎ Heeseung…

- Taking bath together in a bathtub.

- Romantic dinner every day.

- He would prefer staying in the apartment, saying "I have a comfortable place and a perfect girl, why go out?"

- Almost like a honeymoon, he wouldn't keep his hands off you, whether you're cooking, doing something, or just existing, his hand would stay on your waist.

- He would sing for you in front of everyone, idk.

- Lots of physical touch. (as you already knew)

- Watch a live performance, such as a theater show or live music concert.

- Take a romantic stroll on the beach or along a charming city street.

υ´• ᴥ •`υ Jake…

- Flirting 24/7.

- He would say "my girl" with every step you take.

- He would compliment you all the time.

- He would whisper "The place is beautiful, but the company is even more" in your ear all the time.

- Watch a live performance, such as a theater show or live music concert.

- Go on a romantic bike ride through picturesque landscapes.

- Taking a bath together with wine and lots of cuddling.

- He would pout if someone called you pretty on the street.

- Take a day trip to a nearby romantic getaway spot.

- Relax and unwind in a hot tub or private jacuzzi

i hope yall enjoy it, ik it's pretty short, but i really put my heart on it. I love enha, bye 👋

[pinkfoxd0ll]

🩷Pink Ribbon🩷

Summary: Bellas dads friend Toto Wolff visits the family for the summer. Bella hasn't had close relationship with her parents but Toto has been a protective figure when Bella was younger. One day, Bella and Toto spend a day together and find a connection they haven't had before.

Characters: Toto Wolff & Bella(reader)

Category: 🧁Sweet Smut

POV: Fem

Warnings: Parental figure sex, DD/Brat dynamic, big age age gap (26-51)

Dynamic: Fem Sub/Masc Dom

🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀

Toto is sitting on a armchair reading a newspaper, with his glases on looking very focused. I walk to my bedroom changing myself in to a cute outfit. I walk down to the kitchen looking in the living room where Toto still sits. I go to by an upper closet trying to reach it.

"Mr. Wolff! Can you come here?", I yelled, having my back still turned.

I can hear his steps approaching. I turn my head.

"I need some help.", I looked at him up and down, stretching my arms up to shelf.

Toto walks to get next to me.

"You can't reach?", he asks.

"Yes.", I lightly giggled.

"Which of these did you try to get?"

"That one."

Toto reached his hand to the shelf and gave me the small bag.

"Thank you.", I smiled.

There. We had a small moment. We looked into each others eyes. My heart beating a bit harder than usual.

"Anything else?", Toto asked casually.

"Uh, no.", I smiled.

"Okay, let me know if you need help again.", he smiled and nodded.

"I will."

I walked outside to the garden. I laid on the grass on my stomach looking at the flowers.

Hour or so later I hear steps on the ground. Toto was walking to the gazebo. When gets to it he stands and looks at the view. I walk to him and sit down on a couch.

"The garden has grown beautifully. The trees have especially grown strong.", Toto says out loud.

I look at the same direction.

"Yeah, it has. Dad was worried about the sunflowers. Last year they were dying constantly, but we found a better place for them and now they have been very strong.", I said.

"So he finally listened?", Toto looks at me.

"Yeah.", I laughed.

Toto walked to the couch and sat down across to me.

"What have you been doing while I have been gone?", Toto asks.

"Travelling. A lot. And I did open a gallery in Madrid."

"What kind of gallery?"

"At the moment a mostly photography gallery. There are few statues but it's mainly photography focused."

"Sounds very much like "you". I remember you always liked art. Especially photography."

"You gave me a camera as a birthday present when I turned twenty.", I play with a flower in my hand.

"Oh yeah, I did! I remember you were so happy that you cried."

"It was the best present I've ever gotten. Still is."

"I'm happy that you like it."

I giggled.

We talk for a while.

Back in the house, Toto is sitting in the office. I get very strong urge. He looks very focused on his papers and computer, I doubt that he even notices me. I walk up to my bedroom, remove my clothes and have only lingerie on. I lay myself on the bed.

"Mr. Wolff! Mr. Wolff!", I yell.

"Yes?", he yelled back.

"I fell. Can you come and help me up?"

I hear steps coming closer.

"God, you can be so clumsy at ti-", he came to my room and saw me on the bed. I could see his eyes going slowly up and down.

"Why are you on your underwear?", he asks.

"For you.", I answered.

Toto walks walks closer. He sits himself next to me.

"I need to tell you something. I have felt need to tell you this for a while.", I softly told him.

Toto turns his head to me. I move myself behind him.

"I have had this feeling for a while. You have always been there for me. Made me feel safe, warm, comforting...", I continue.

"What are you saying?", Toto asks.

"I want you. I need you.", I move myself to his lap. Putting my hands on his shoulders.

"I don't know if this is a good idea.", he says.

I pout my lips and give him my best puppy eyes.

"It would disappoint your father if he'd found out."

"He won't.", I whispered in his ear.

"Please, Mr. Wolff. I'm in need. Won't you help me.", I rub my waist back and forth.

"I'm not sure.", he smirks and bites his lip.

"Please Mr. Wolff, please!", I beg.

He pulls my head head closer. And kisses me. He stops and we look at each other. And then continue to kiss. He continues to my jaw, down to my neck.

"Take off your bra.", Toto tells me.

I removed my bra. He continued to kiss to my breast. He looks at me, I nod. He puts my breast into his mouth, started sucking it and playing with my nipple with his tongue. He places his hand on my panties.

"My dear. Are you this excited already?", he whispers.

"Mhm.", I nodded.

He lightly rubs his finger against my panties. I can feel it up till my spine.

Toto lays me down on the bed. He removes my panties and spreads my legs.

"You look absolutely gorgeous.", he kisses and licks my inner thighs.

He teases me, making me more and more impatient. He finally starts playing with my clit with his tongue. Just making me wetter.

"Mr. Wolff! Yes! Just like that!", I whimpered.

His tongue feels amazing. I couldn't stop craving for more.

"Mr. Wolff, let's switch.", I asked him.

Toto lays on the bed and I get on top. I unzip his pants and take out his cock. I first lick the tip and teasing his cock with my tongue. I put his cock in my mouth. I can feel it getting harder.

"Ah yes!", he groans.

I go up and down. Making sure the cock gets hard and slippery. We both moan of pleasure.

"I need you now. Get on my lap.", Toto asks.

I get up on his lap, but instead of putting it inside. I tease his cock around my slit. But I couldn't do it for long. I craved it inside just as much he does.

I put it in and go up and down. His cock stretching my hole feels amazing. I didn't expect it to be so thick. Toto holds my breasts while bounce faster and faster.

"I didn't realize for how long and how much I have craved you.", I moan.

"This whole time, have you tried to tell me this?", Toto asks.

"Yes. But I was very shy. I was praying for a chance for us to be alone. I was worried about us possibly getting caught. I just couldn't take it anymore."

"I found you attractive too but I thought that you wouldn't be that interested in me. Especially when you were dating other people."

"None of them compare to you."

We moan and moan, as I go harder and faster. Toto raises himself up to get closer to me. I wrap my arms around his neck. We kiss and he rubs my clit.

"Cum for me, liebling. Show me how badly you wanted me.", Toto groans.

I moan louder and feel immense pressure between my thighs. We moan in sync and forget where we are. Our focus are only on each other. I feel warmth filling me inside. A feeling of euphoria hits and I can't move. Everything feels tense, but in a good way.

Toto leans on me and we hug.

"That was amazing.", I smile.

"You liked it hm?", he smiles back.

"Yes.", I bite my lip with a smile.

We lay down on the bed, I move my head to his chest. He plays with my hair.

"How much time do we have for ourselves?", Toto asks.

I look at the clock.

"Few hours.", I close my eyes.

Toto let's out a chuckle.

[kalolasfantasyworld]

hiya lola! how about 8, 15, and 24 for the ask game?

Hi Tam! 💕💕💕

I admit I really wanted to answer these ones, so they will be long, but hopefully the best ^^ Thank you so much for your ask

Guys read these please!!! I wanted to share them so much! Let me know what you think 😊

8. Pacific Rim Au Nozelena

15. Klance go to the Arcade

23. Wildest Dreams (although a lot of the fic was inspired by multiple songs overall)

8 . that hurt my own feelings to write

So this one is not going to be from Paper Hearts, because spoilers… those bits just happen later and surprisingly I actually bawled my eyes the most at a Solid and Nebra scene, not Nozelena (I think I had these scenes planned too well to get super emotional, while with Solid and Nebra I just went with it and started crying...)

So the excerpt I'm going to show you is in my opinion one of the best pieces I’ve ever written and it’s from the Pacific Rim Au, that myself, @thoughtfullyrainynightmare, @lyranova, @loosesodamarbleare and @koneko-pi are working on 💕

Angels like you song fits it perfectly Spotify Youtube and gosh it made me cry 

“Are you alright mi amor?” Helena blinked cautiously. “You don’t seem overly excited about us having a winning chance against Kaiju.”

“It’s just… not as simple as it seems,” Nozel answered quietly and looked down, not daring to meet her eyes. However Helena did not let him. She touched his chin and then lifted it up. 

“It’s not,” she admitted. “However I believe that we can manage. Without hope our chances are pretty slim.”

“Then what do you hope for?” Nozel asked and he just adored how another warm blush spread across her cheeks. 

She lifted her finger and twirled a single strand of her hair around it. 

“I’d love to show you Europe,” Helena spoke up. “Mi familia’s sunny hacienda by the Mediterranean Sea… And then after we rest, we can go to Madrid,” she smiled and with each word her eyes brightened, she let go of her hair. “And after we’re done with sightseeing in España, we could visit other countries,” her tone picked up its pace, swiftly accentuating the words, and she pulled out of his hold, because her energy was not letting her stay in one place. “Italy!” Helena exclaimed. “Or Greece,” she pondered and Nozel softly looked down at her. “Both of them actually. Oh, then we should go to Malta! They have amazing scuba diving sites there. Do you know how to dive?”

“I..?” he raised his brows and blinked, confused by how quickly this escalated. 

I shouldn’t be surprised. It’s Helena after all, one full of life idea after the other.

“You don’t,” she nodded to herself. “Don’t worry we’ll find you a fitting diving course. I mean you’re going down into the depths of the Pacific in a metal can, what’s eighteen meters to you?” she flashed a smile.

Helena then paused and chuckled to herself.

“They have moray eels there,” she said and grinned. “Sooo I know, that you’re not scared of kaiju,” she playfully pointed at him and winked, “but what will you do if a moray eel shows up?”

“Obviously I won’t be bothered by it,” Nozel stated arrogantly, but he felt, that it was just for show. Because he may not have been scared of moray eels, but something else clouded his mind. 

“So cocky mi amor. You know how to get a girl excited,” she laughed and the sound of it would have normally made his heart flutter, but instead the strained muscle sunk deep into his chest.

“After moray eels…” Helena continued on happily chirping, but as much as he wanted to listen he could not. It pained him too much to do so.

You don’t know that I won’t be there with you. That you will have to dive with moray eels by yourself and I won’t be able to scare them off for you. You will once again see Madrid and then hopefully go to Rome, before hopping on a plane to Malta. And I will be dead, because if I don't die in a jaeger, my poisoning is getting worse and worse with each day. It’s getting harder to hide it from you, but how could I speak and shatter your hopes? Especially, when hope is what we need right now. We need people like you, not run down by this war, people ready to happily move forward and build a brighter future, not the likes of me, stained by their past and living in their memories. The drift never lets me forget how I’m the cause… This is my punishment, the poison, everything that follows. I don’t deserve to be happy.

He gazed at her prancing around the room and shooting him excited glances with each new idea she came up with. The red scrubs she wore, so beautifully complimented her tanned complexion. Brown hair fluttered and dark eyes shone brightly. It was as if stars decided on a new home in the depth of those round, deep orbs. She was chuckling to herself and the sound was sweet, heavenly. 

I don’t deserve happiness, but you do. I am staining your life with my shades of gray. They may seem silver, but only after reflecting your light. You will be better off without me. You may grieve, when I die… Actually I’m sure you will, because I’ve already been selfish enough to let you care for me… to let you picture a future, where we… There’s no “we” in the future.

Nozel squeezed his eyes shut and looked down. He felt the blue Silva pendant bounce off the tip of his nose, only to hit it back a second later. 

“Nozel?” he heard Helena ask and he looked at her, angry with himself for letting anything show. She became very good at reading him, so the tiniest slip up would let her know that something much darker was lurking in the shadows. “You do not wish to go to Paris? I know that the Eiffel Tower got destroyed during one of the first kaiju attacks, but the city had been mostly rebuilt,” she paused and looked up at him hopeful. “I suppose that I’d like to take you there,” Helena said quietly and smiled shyly, twirling a strand of her hair around her index finger. “I know it may be a bit cliche, but it’s a city of love…”

Love?! She cannot love me! Nozel pulled back. I may have these feelings, that I cannot properly name, but she…

Helena blinked upon noticing him get startled. The round eyes darkened into a shade close to black and he noticed the corners of her lips fall down. Her jaw tensed and she looked at the floor.

“So no Paris?” Helena asked quietly. 

“No,” Nozel answered flatly and a tight knot squeezed his chest, not letting his heart free. 

Okay this still hurts :( every time I read it and the misunderstanding at the end! 😭

15. from an old piece that i like

Klance go to the Arcade from my old fic (this is so hilarious)

Because I love my other Red x Blue OTP

I hope you like them @iamatriangle 💕 and for the rest of you just read the funny gay ship 😂

START

From the upper side of the screen some low quality ships appeared and started soaring to meet them halfway. Lance's lion jumped into the fight. It shoot two of the incoming hostiles. Keith just snored and also got his hand in the game. His playing involved more calculated manoeuvres than Lance's chaotic strategy, but to Kogane's surprise they were both equally successful. When the bigger ships came lions needed to avoid getting hit with their Ion cannon blasts. Their score rose with each second and Keith noticed a small crowd behind them watching the game. On the right side appeared a small ship, more agile than the others. It aimed at Lance. Kogane pressed the 'SPECIAL' button and his lion blasted a big cascade of digital fire at the opponent. 

"Thanks buddy." Lance said a little too loud from the adrenaline. 

The next wave contained some small fighters, but also three ship like the one Keith took out a moment ago. He needed to admit that he had never reached a level this high in this game and Lance had probably something to do with it. McClain had also used his special blast, so they were practically defenceless, but somehow they defeated the wave. During the next one Lance was the first to get blasted. The blue lion flickered and boy shook his head in disbelief. 

"Quiznak! I barely had them. It looks like it's up to you Mullet." A cocky grin once again appeared on his face and this made Keith loose focus. Just for a moment, but a moment was enough to get hit.

"Quiznak!"

"You're right quiznak it!" Said Lance and then he noticed people standing around them. A small applause came from them. McClain bowed and winked at Keith. "I actually don't hate you right now." 

"Gee, thanks Lance." 

'New high score!!!' A caption appeared and Keith watched it with disbelief. He turned to Lance, who was as cheerful as he could be. A wide smile spreading across his face made something change in Keith's own expression. He laughed as McClain put both of his hands on Kogane's arms and shook him. 

"Aw man we did this! Let's choose our duo name."

"A duo name?" 

"Yeah so it will appear next to DUO HIGH SCORE." 

A face palm was definitely the accurate reaction, but something stopped Keith from this. McClain not being rude or jealous towards him was something new, but quite pleasant. Why ruin it. 

"Got any ideas? Not connected to Hamilton."

"Aww buddy, why do you have to be so mean?"

"Sorry, not sorry." 

"Anyway it doesn't matter. I've already chosen our DUO NAME."

"Hm?"

"What about Klance?" 

Keith rose his brows and then tried to give Lance the most unappealing look he could. 

"You just added K to your name," he said reluctantly. 

"Yeah I know. I'm not stupid." 

"But this name is." 

"Why can't you appreciate my efforts?" A tease was so easy to notice in Lance's voice and the puppy eyes he made. 

"You're the worst."

"So is it Klance?"

"No..." He looked at those blue begging eyes once again. "Yeees?" 

"Yes!" McClain shouted and jumped in the air to show his satisfaction. Keith just chuckled. "Klance it is." He started pushing accurate buttons and the caption appeared brightly on the screen. 

"So now the rival mode?" Asked Keith actually not willing to change from cooperation to different mode. 

"Well if you want to we can now play against each other, but there are so many games in which we have high scores to beat." 

"Are you suggesting to play 'Arcade's fast and furious' in cooperation mode?"

"Yes?" 

"Alright."

"Yeah!" Lance shouted. "Watch out high scores team Klance is coming." 

"I still think that this name sucks." 

Lance gave him a deadpan stare.

"You suck." 

❤️💙

23. that was inspired by a work from another medium (music, visual art, dance, etc.)

Paper Heart so much! There is this one singer who inspired a lot of this fic and I have a whole playlist made for it, but most of the songs fit latter chapters better (that vocalist’s as well, let me tell you, when I was coming up with it one song played 53 times one day -> Spotify summary told me that)

So actually this Friday’s chapter is the one I told you I made a whole separate playlist for and I will post the first illustration with that playlist tomorrow. But for now I’m letting you know that the vibes will set by this song.

Bailando by Enrique Iglesias (Spanish version please) Spotify, YouTube

As for what we have so far ^^

The whole of chapter 21. The waves was inspired by Wildest Dreams by Taylors Swift (this version please)

I’ll chose parts from it and show you as I paraphrased the lyrics:

“Where are you taking me?” Helena asked poking at his feathery mantle, that was not fully covered by the cloak.

“It’s a surprise,” he said determined. “Let’s get out of here, fly out of the city. Away from everyone,” his voice was low and made Helena shudder. He was extremely attractive at the moment. His lilac eyes pierced right through her. Helena’s heart was racing from excitement.

“I wish it could always be like that,” Nozel spoke up for the first time in a while. His voice was quiet and he looked down.

Helena lifted his chin and made him meet her eyes.

“Say that you’ll remember this,” she smiled. “Us.”

“I will remember you,” he said in a serious tone and Helena blushed. “We shouldn’t spend the whole night here, but I think that we still have time for a little stroll,” he changed the topic. “Are you interested?”

Also I already added this song in chapter 15

“We don’t have to go public with it,” Helena said and Nozel looked up curious. “We can just meet each other in secret. No one has to know what we do.”

And let me reblog the art with fitting song lyrics, because the art is just perfect.